Briefing Room, CHESS Castle, night.
Current Conditions:
Also OOC: I guess that we need to see if CHESS or affiliates can trace the transmission back to the source. While I'm sure that satellites are involved and not just land lines, would Lightning Strike have any chance of jumping into the system and tracing the signal back?
We don't have anything else to go on other than the irregular thermal readings in the AEGIS Spire. I'd say that we hit it, assuming that the "irregular thermal readings" are actually something on which we SHOULD act. "Irregular", I am assuming, means more than a large population of stray cats or something.
I say we go, go, go to the AEGIS Spire.
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Sentinel:
First all, welcome back Don!!!
Second, well at least Kirk is well rested :)
it appears my instinct was wrong (thus far) (unless of course I was overpowered during the Hotsleep with the idea of Primate making us believe nothing was there - with that in mind, Kirk would have the mental readings double-checked for irregularities during the time he was in the process- were there brief moments of unusual brain patterns at any time that could have corresponded to Kirk being overwhelmed and false perceptions being given to him) (or it could have been that it would take a much longer time for the effect to settle in) (or it could be a legit dead end).
However, I would have to ask prior to the hotsleep during the interrogation:
I would not go along with the rest of them! I refused! The Primate would have them believe that animals are superior to men, but I know better.
Who contacted 'them' about the break? When? How did he have any contact with the Primate? They would have already been on the move from the impact before the Primate was released from the Hotsleep. Do we have an indication that he had made contact with the animal inmates prior to the break?
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Upon the "uprising of the animals," Symbiote proposes the following.
"It looks like AEGIS Spire is our best lead for the moment, but I'd like to try a few things, while they're gassing up the jet if nothing else. First, Viper, you say that you're hearing this voice...can you get a sense of direction from it, any idea of the source? Would you be willing to let me copy your powers for a few minutes, see if I can make something from it? As somebody who doesn't live in a body permanently melded to animal genetics I might be able to bring a different perspective to the problem.
"Secondly, I'd like to capture an animal and run it though the MRI," (OOC: Or any other applicable high falutin' super duper scanning equipment we have at the headquarters)
"As I say, though, it looks like Primate's probably holed up in the Spire. Does CHESS have a floor plan? What were the defenses for the place?" Symbiote asks.
"One more thing...does our jet have any stealth capabilities? If nothing else, we'd better be on guard flying in. A flock of birds flying a suicide mission into the engines could bring us down fast. I'd recommend having Sentinel on alert, ready to put a protective force bubble around the jet."
The first moment he gets to himself after the crisis erupts, Hal finds a phone and calls his sister, filling her in on what he knows about the situation.
"Listen, get over to Dad's house and plan on staying there for the duration," Hal says. "I used to think all those years on the force made him a little paranoid, but right now I'm glad he has sturdy locks and a good alarm. Tell him to keep his service pistol loaded and ready until this is over." Hal paused for a moment. "And call Betty and invite her to stay too...yeah, I know, she's not your favorite person since the divorce, but we've actually gotten along pretty well the past year or so and whatever else happens I don't want her hurt. Thanks."
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Sentinel:
Some additional stuff:
Jeff: If Kirk feels anything other than refreshed from sleep upon coming out of the Hotsleep, let me know.
Upon his return to seeing Viper: Kirk upon returning is consumed with trying to piece together what is happening. On seeing Viper a big smile crosses his face and he races over to him slapping him on the back, "I knew you couldn't keep away, you big lug! Although Vanguard has grown in your absence, things haven't been the same without your 'sparking' personality around. A round on me once we're done saving the world again!"
"Smitty must be thrilled your back knowing you'll keep the place hopping!"
(For Smitty, remind me of his real name - this was the bar keep that was a 'special contact' of Viper within Chess when Vanguard first made contact --- I can't remember his 'real' name now - hopefully I'm remembering correctly, it was Viper that did that, right?).
Back to the mission at hand:
Kirk will assist Symbiote in acquiring some animals for him to check.
On the pattern emerging:
Does the time frame show a localized outbreak in one place after another with a specific radius and time of effect? Does it seem to occur in one locale after another or several simultaneously or everywhere at once?Do the animals return to normal afterwards? Are there signs of abnormal intelligence in addition to the aggressive behavior? Are all animals in the 'hotzone' behaving in this manner or only some?
Kirk will also try to get a read on the 'energy' changes to the environment regarding any outbreak of aggressive animal behavior he is near. This is, unfortunately, limited in scope by Kirk's 'range', but if in a 'hotzone' he might be able to determine the energy type being used by Primate to execute this process and thus help Symbiote, Strike, Rocket in the right direction for a counter-measure.
It seems apparent that Primate would need a source of power to accomplish this and we need to continue to determine if its a physical energy type that we are dealing with (preferable) or some sort of mental energy control (tougher to counter with everyone's lack of expertise).
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GM Replies:
Forester wrote: On land, are any of the attacks from herbivores? Are the sea attacks from whales--or are sharks, squids, and other non-mammalian animals involved? Are there reports of any attacks from birds, arthropods, reptiles, amphibians?
GM Reply: The attacks have just begun, but it seems to involve every kind of animal!
In England, cattle stampeded near a slaughterhouse, killing and injuring ranchers and slaughterers.
Reports are coming in from around the globe of planes going missing. This could be Symbiote’s theory of bird strikes!
More specific info from the sea attacks is still forthcoming, but unrelated to the maydaying ships, there are shark attack reports in Australia, Florida, South Africa and elsewhere!
Forester wrote: Does Forester experience any unusual sensations during Primate's speech?
GM Reply: No. But even if he were a lycanthrope, it might not affect him while in human form. ;)
Kairos wrote: Jeff, if I can, I'll go ahead and spend a luck point to get the silver weapon.
GM Reply: You can. I’ll write it into the story asap. Stay tuned!
Kairos wrote: While I'm sure that satellites are involved and not just land lines, would Lightning Strike have any chance of jumping into the system and tracing the signal back?
GM Reply: Maybe.
Kairos wrote: "Irregular", I am assuming, means more than a large population of stray cats…
GM Reply: Yes.
Sentinel wrote: It appears my instinct was wrong
GM Reply: Doc Rocket saw Kirk’s disappointment and said. “Your instinct was right, my boy. What you discovered in Hotsleep does nothing to disprove your theory as to how the Primate may have developed his (apparent) mental powers over the past years in Hotsleep!”
Sentinel wrote: Sentinel asked Chiropterus: Who contacted 'them' about the break? When? How did he have any contact with the Primate? They would have already been on the move from the impact before the Primate was released from the Hotsleep. Do we have an indication that he had made contact with the animal inmates prior to the break?
GM OOC Reply: As mentioned in the now classic Issue 63, Chiropterus will offer nothing more, perhaps in fear of an enemy who can make contact with Chiropterus mentally!
Later, assuming Viper opens up about those crazy voices in his head, many of Sentinel’s questions are answered.
Symbiote wrote: This may take hours of research to determine
GM Reply: This is an accurate guess, and the jet will be ready in under an hour. But Doc is willing (thrilled really) to continue what you, Strike and he begin.
Symbiote wrote: "As I say, though, it looks like Primate's probably holed up in the Spire. Does CHESS have a floor plan? What were the defenses for the place?"
GM Reply: The building’s ownership is in dispute, and American CHESS had no relationship to European AEGIS, but CHESS will get on it asap.
Symbiote wrote: ...does our jet have any stealth capabilities?
GM Reply: Against radar, but not visual contact.
Symbiote wrote:
The first moment he gets to himself after the crisis erupts, Hal finds a phone and calls his sister, filling her in on what he knows about the situation.
GM Reply: Shelley is woken from a dead sleep but is soon alert. When she is filled in she says, “Sounds like you guys need all the help you can get. Can I come? Look, I can phone Dad and Betty.”
Sentinel wrote:
If Kirk feels anything other than refreshed from sleep upon coming out of the Hotsleep, let me know.
GM Reply: I wouldn’t call it refreshed. Kirk was just placed into a chemical-driven sleep, and then injected with drugs to wake up earlier than scheduled. He feels pretty crummy right now.
And if you follow Symbiote’s plan of placing an energy bubble around the Manta Craft, Kirk will get no rest on the flight to Greece. No rest for the weary.
Sentinel wrote: For Smitty, remind me of his real name - this was the bar keep that was a 'special contact' of Viper within Chess when Vanguard first made contact --- I can't remember his 'real' name now - hopefully I'm remembering correctly, it was Viper that did that, right?
GM Reply: Good memory. Viper made a CHESS contact with Molloy, who works on the Omni-Carrier.
I think Don used a Luck Point to do it.
Sentinel wrote: Does the time frame show a localized outbreak in one place after another with a specific radius and time of effect? Does it seem to occur in one locale after another or several simultaneously or everywhere at once? Do the animals return to normal afterwards? Are there signs of abnormal intelligence in addition to the aggressive behavior? Are all animals in the 'hotzone' behaving in this manner or only some?
GM Reply: Early reports are just starting, so patterns will take some time to reveal themselves.
So far: It appears simultaneous. There are no “hot zones.” This is apparently a global phenomenon.
There hasn’t been an “afterwards” yet to see if animals return to “normal.” None have exhibited what could be called human-level intelligence.
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Symbiote:
“This is an accurate guess, and the jet will be ready in under an hour. But Doc is willing (thrilled really) to continue what you, Strike and he begin.”
Excellent. I assume that Doc can be in audio (and, given CHESS's tech capabilities, maybe even video) contact with us during the flight if he needs a second or third opinion.
“ Kirk will get no rest on the flight to Greece. No rest for the weary.”
To clarify, I don't think it'd be necessary for him to have a force bubble around the plane the entire time, just maybe on takeoff and landing and if we see or radar detects a flock of birds coming towards us. If necessary, Kirk could probably catch some shuteye over the mid-Atlantic, where there are few landmasses and therefore little chance of running across any birds.
“ Shelley is woken from a dead sleep but is soon alert. When she is filled in she says, “Sounds like you guys need all the help you can get. Can I come? Look, I can phone Dad and Betty.”
Before I answer this question, did Shelly take the CHESS lab tech job we discussed a few issues back? If so, is she stationed on the helicarrier, at Vanguard headquarters or elsewhere?
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Sentinel:
OOC:
“It appears simultaneous. There are no “hot zones.” This is apparently a global phenomenon.”
Oh, goody. So it appears that somehow the Primate's powers (either on his own or enhanced by a device has a worldwide range - let's hope for a device being involved to amp his influence and that he hasn't grown that powerful).
Don't think that I overlooked the GM no reply to the inquiry about following the brain patterns in Hotsleep to see unusual activity where an 'attack' could have taken place - could be you overlooked this in your reply or it could be Kirk is in trouble - if so, hopefully it was only enough to make him think nothing was discovered in the Hotsleep and not enough so that he's a 'sleeper agent' for the Primate since half the team may already be sleeper agents of the Black Bat from the last mission; well the more the merrier :) Definitely not going to be good for Kirk's psyche after everything Swastika did in this regard and his anger against this sort of stuff to begin with. Hopefully I'm wrong here.
Anyway, unless something new comes up prior to our leaving for Aegis, Kirk will spend the hour trying to help locally to save whatever citizens he can and help contain whatever animals possible. He will continue to work on his 'feeling' out the energy flowing through the areas to see if he can determine anything out of the ordinary to pass on to our scientific geniuses to counter the Primate.
If the team feels the shields around the carrier are a smart move, he'd do it for the trip.
Despite being physically tired from the activity, it would seem all of these things could be done with little to no power loss (and hey, he's 21 - they don't get tired quickly and bounce back seamlessly). If he puts up his shields to assist with the citizens, as he manipulates them to help civilians and contain animals, it would seem they'd take little damage - he could then expand his personal shields to cover the craft as it travels with no additional power exertion, and upon safe landing, contact them back to protect himself. Unless something serious comes up all of this could be done likely from one creation, and depending on what he actually encounters, even that may be almost totally intact. Even if he sees a little action, hopefully once they land in Europe he'd have a few moments to rest and get his power levels to full before the entry to old Aegis headquarters. Naturally although looking to conserve his power for the mission, he'd expend whatever was necessary in a heroic way to protect his teammates and assist people.
Assuming Viper does open up about this and I think he would (Don?), he (and you) can let us know about the sort of contact he experienced. Did if feel personal like the Primate was in his head directly speaking to him or general like he was within range of listening to a radio broadcast or an announcement over a load speaker? How compelled did he feel from the message? Did he feel he had to resist obeying it? If it seemed like a personal contact, does he have any feeling of the presence still being with him? (If so, perhaps Kirk could try to 'read' him with his permission to be sure Primate isn't actually keeping up with them through Viper) Has he felt this way before? (ie perhaps Primate tried a 'broadcast' of sorts as a trial run).
And by the way, has Don actually posted anything yet? Is Viper's return a ploy by our GM to infiltrate our ranks??? Da Dummm!!!!
As mentioned, that's the plan for Kirk unless something new develops prior to the next issue and their traveling.
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Forester:
Private to GM:
OOC: Hey Jeff, Your last reply again suggested that Forester may or may not be a werecreature, based on his recently acquired knowledge that he may have been bitten by a lycanthrope during his original encounter with Marksman. That singular event took place many moons ago game time.
Based on Forester's mythological studies, all related CHESS records, and anything he can find on Jarkapedia.com, what is the longest recorded time between contracting lycanthrope and actually transforming into a werebeing?
Theoretically, is it possible to be a carrier of lycathrope without showing signs of the disease--only to begin to exhibit symptoms at a much later date?
Other than a full moon, are there any other documented or legendary triggers for an unwanted, human-to-animal transformation?
Other than the times he has been knocked unconscious in battle, has
Forester ever blacked out since that day he met Marksman? Has he ever lost time? Woke up in an unknown/unexpected location? Found his clothing or other belongings in a tattered array? Discovered unexpected wounds on his body? You get the idea... (As earlier entries have established, Forester doesn't consume alcohol or use other mind-altering substances, so chemical use won't come into play here.)
Given Primate's ability to control animals, his interest in extranormals with animal powers, and the recurring reminders that Forester might be infected with Lon Chaney Jr. Disease, Forester will set up an emergency appointment with Doc Rocket for a full medical evaluation before heading out on the next mission.
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Viper:
OOC: Hey Folks!
I was a bit overwhelmed at the sudden influx of e-mails, so I'm sorry for the slow response. I was also working the local festival! (how ironic with Viper's circus past!) Deep down I'm a Carny!
Character Sheet: Jeff, if its possible I'll spend that training on an ability that makes me harder to hit. And I hear Simian's Mental Broadcast, but do I have the urge to *Rise Up*?
After Simian's BBC telecast..
"Alright! I've had it! In the past I've had some trouble getting a hairy bearded lady or two outta my head, but this ape has got to go.
He's telling me to 'Rise up my brothers. Now is the time.' That can't be good fer the common folks out there."
Viper crushes a beer can and then tosses it away. After opening the second can...
"I'm ready. What do we do?"
“ Symbiote introduces himself to Viper. "It's nice to meet you," the Copying Crusader says to the Reptilian Roustabout. "I read the case file on your adventure with the Star Giant--remarkable work, from you and everybody. I specialize in metahuman physiology, I'd like to run some tests on you some time if you're willing."
"Tests?" Viper scowls. "I don't test well, Symbiote. I just ne'er took ta studyin'. I remember Mrs Crabtree always tellin' me, 'Jake!
You have to study for these spelling tests! Or you'll end up another snake in the grass like yer father!' I guess she was right."
::Viper raises his beer can in salute to Mrs Crabtree and Dad::
Here's to bein' a snake in the grass. I s'pose you can take a look at me. Maybe you can figger out why I can hear this hairy ape and
I'm not mauling any humans. Although there's this cute juggler, back in Wallhalla County, Florida, that I'd like to take out for a few drinks and some crawfish. That has definite mauling possibilities! "
::Viper winks at Simbiote::
"Hey Kirk! I was meanin' to go visit Molloy, but you know how Doc here, is. All work work work. I might wander down and give him a visit. ::Viper leans into Kirk a bit and whispers too loudly:: This
Synbiote fella wants to do some tests on me. Is he on the up and up?
I jus wanna make sure he's as straight as one of Forester's arrows!
Maybe you can sit in on any tests he wants to do? "
"Symbiote, maybe we can compare what's tickin' in my head, and compare it to the pigeon you capture. ::Viper finishes his last can:: And no jokes about the pigeon bein' smarter!"
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OOC GM Replies:
(Don, you recall that in-character replies happen in the next issue.
OOC replies happen as soon as I can manage.)
Symbiote wrote: Excellent. I assume that Doc can be in audio (and, given CHESS's tech capabilities, maybe even video) contact with us during the flight if he needs a second or third opinion.
GM Reply: Yes.
Symbiote wrote: To clarify, I don't think it'd be necessary for him to have a force bubble around the plane the entire time, just maybe on takeoff and landing and if we see or radar detects a flock of birds coming towards us. If necessary, Kirk could probably catch some shuteye over the mid-Atlantic, where there are few landmasses and therefore little chance of running across any birds.
GM Reply: Thanks. Understood. One point: transatlantic flight routes hug the land somewhat. Newfoundland and Labrador to Greenland to Iceland to Faroe Islands to Scotland. The seemingly curved path on a flat map is actually straight due to the curve of the globe. Of course, you can chart a course over the water.
Symbiote wrote: Before I answer this question, did Shelly take the CHESS lab tech job we discussed a few issues back? If so, is she stationed on the helicarrier, at Vanguard headquarters or elsewhere?
GM Reply: She applied and was deemed overqualified! She successfully reapplied for the position of scientist. She is currently undergoing training at a Manhattan CHESS facility. She may be stationed on the Omni-Carrier, CHESS Castle or CHESS Vault (where unusual artifacts and devices are contained and studied), but hasn’t received her assignment yet.
Sentinel wrote: Don't think that I overlooked the GM no reply to the inquiry about following the brain patterns in Hotsleep to see unusual activity where an 'attack' could have taken place - could be you overlooked this in your reply
GM Reply: I did. Sorry. There were no unusual readings during the Hotsleep process, however all subjects take to the process differently.
Forester wrote: Based on Forester's mythological studies, all related CHESS records, and anything he can find on Jarkapedia.com, what is the longest recorded time between contracting lycanthrope and actually transforming into a werebeing?
GM Reply: Some of this is moot since our side discussion. But will reply. Nowhere near the amount of time that had passed since the attack on Frederick. According to myths, the victim transforms no later than the next full moon. (~28 days)
Forester wrote: Theoretically, is it possible to be a carrier of lycathrope without showing signs of the disease--only to begin to exhibit symptoms at a much later date?
GM Reply: There is no information, mythical or otherwise, of such an event.
Forester wrote: Other than a full moon, are there any other documented or legendary triggers for an unwanted, human-to-animal transformation?
GM Reply: Hyena transforms regardless of the lunar cycle. He escaped from CHESS Castle before an examination of his condition returned results.
Forester wrote: Other than the times he has been knocked unconscious in battle, has Forester ever blacked out since that day he met Marksman? Has he ever lost time? Woke up in an unknown/unexpected location? Found his clothing or other belongings in a tattered array? Discovered unexpected wounds on his body?
GM Reply: No.
Viper wrote: Character Sheet: Jeff, if its possible I'll spend that training on an ability that makes me harder to hit.
GM Reply: Fine. Your Level 2 advancement will give you a -2 to be hit. Will modify your sheet and forward to you.
Viper wrote: And I hear Simian's Mental Broadcast, but do I have the urge to *Rise Up*?
GM Reply: No.
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Symbiote:
"Can I come?"
Hal thought to himself, rubbing his temples, We're going to go waltz with Primate, for pity's sake, and an entire Wild Kingdom of sociopaths, and Shelly wants to come along. Girl's got more guts than brains, and considering her brains that's saying quite a bit. He thought fast. He didn't want another fight or hard feelings, plus there was one area in which she might actually be able to help.
"This one's for combatants only, Shel, CHESS regulations," Hal said. He assumed this was true, and even if it wasn't it was Hal's Regulations--no way he was letting his sister anywhere near the likes of Primate and Hyena. "But call Betty, tell her to get over to Dad's and then head down here, to Vanguard Headquarters. I'll speak to Doc Rocket, we'll have a pass and security clearance waiting for you downstairs. With Strike and me in Europe he's going to need help in the lab, can't think of anybody else I'd rather have working on this project."
Hal briefly leaned away from the receiver, then back in. "Listen, I gotta go, I think Sentinel is back with our bird," he said, whether it was actually true or not--he was determined to get off the phone with her before she could seriously argue. "Tell Dad and Betty we've both been called in by the government to help with the scientific aspect of this crisis--that's true, as far as it goes. Be safe, I'll bring you something nice from Europe." He then hangs up.
Symbiote then goes to explain the situation to Doc Rocket. "Can you bring her in on the project, Doc? She's smart as a whip, better than me at physics, truth be told. She'll be a big help and I'd feel a lot better knowing she was safe here at the headquarters."
Before leaving with the rest of the crew, Symbiote makes one more request. Can we get a portable Hotsleep unit to bring along? Or at least some serious sedatives? If the best case scenario happens and we manage to subdue Primate, we should probably keep him sedated until we get him back to CHESS Castle. If he has animal control powers now we don't want him arranging an airborne attack on the trip back from Greece.
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Forester:
Forester will accompany any/all of the other heroes to track down Primate. Since none of Forester's powers will help him in this (at least for now), he'll have to follow the direction of CHESS. Wherever they want him, he'll go.
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Vanguard went into action, running down clues as to the whereabouts of the escaped simian super-scientist, the Primate!
When Sentinel revealed his new telepathic powers to the team, Grey seemed appreciative of the confession. Doc Rocket was fascinated. Agent Drake’s face held no particular expression.
Forester and Lightning Strike interrogated Dr. Chiropterus under Sentinel’s watchful eyes. Chiropterus’ CHESS Castle files described a model prisoner. He had 8 months left on his sentence. The nervous, baleful eyed bat creature hunched over as if in physical pain (imagine Peter Lorre meets Gollum).
Forester’s mind games and Strike’s threats made short work of his trepidation to speak. “I only fled the prison to preserve my life!” he whined pathetically, arm-wings outstretched. “I would not go along with the rest of them! I refused! The Primate would have them believe that animals are superior to men, but I know better. I only wish to return to human form! That’s all I’ve ever wanted!” Chiropterus would offer nothing more. Sentinel believed he was telling the truth. Interrogations with other prisoners continued for hours with nothing useful uncovered.
As Kairos searched for a silver weapon for Hyena, he thought of his dream. Was he only fit for warfare?
In the presence of warden Farquar’s medical team, Doc Rocket and Lightning Strike, Sentinel was placed into Hotsleep! The process was successful and he settled into a chemical bath in a man-sized technological sarcophagus encrusted with tubes that ran to the ceiling. (imagine the red sleep pods in The Matrix) The team carefully monitored his life signs on glowing screens and planned to sleep him overnight, barring some unforeseen development. The electrical stimuli system usually used to prevent muscle atrophy would be unnecessary for such a short period.
Sentinel entered Hotsleep. There was no telepathic trap awaiting him. Hotsleep was a process of placing a subject to sleep indefinitely. Sentinel had no contact with any other Hotsleeped prisoner. He slept. He dreamt. Time and matter fell away. A Hotsleeped prisoner was left alone with his mind for the duration of his sentence. Sentinel could have easily been lost in the dream, but through a monumental exertion of will, Sentinel believed he had achieved self awareness. He maintained it.
Around midnight, with interrogations concluded and CHESS Castle locked down, the team withdrew to Vanguard Headquarters atop the Empire State Building to continue their work. Forester was reviewing CHESS files on Viper when behind him he heard a familiar voice. “Nice pile of bricks you got here.” 
Forester turned and saw Viper standing in the doorway! The roughneck renegade had a beer in each hand. Grey was behind him.
Grey introduced Viper to the new Vanguard and explained that he briefed Viper on the current situation. (OOC: replies, responses. See art of each other (Don, Inhuman is not present).
Everyone please welcome Don/Viper back to the game!)
After midnight, results on the AEGIS Spire came in from Athens. Interpol agents noticed nothing unusual from the building’s exterior. But darkly tinted glass made it impossible to see within. As instructed, they held off from gaining entry. When a CHESS satellite was moved into position it detected irregular thermal readings in the building. The scan could not identify the source. Records showed the building’s power was shut down years ago.
Ajay came in and said, “Come quick, you’re going to want to see this.”
Everyone gathered around a TV set. “It’s on BBC News. Globally. Someone’s hacked into their system.”
The face of a great silver-backed mountain gorilla with fiercely intelligent eyes and a great, dignified bearing. The background was flat white. The great ape was speaking French! Then he began in English:
“Humans of this world, I am the Primate. Your cruel stewardship of Earth is ended. A new era has begun. No longer will you be permitted to destroy this planet, threatening all the life forms upon it with your shortsighted and insatiable avarice.
No longer will you murder my brethren for sport or pleasure or fashion. No longer will we be your slaves. No. Your time here is ended.
“Homo sapien will be pruned away. A new world is dawning. A green world where the harmony of nature is restored.
“One year from now, you will all be dead. Your empty cities will be reclaimed by The Green and by the rightful masters of this world, the Animal Kingdom.
“We have no demands. We just wanted you to know why your civilization is being undone; why your sins have come back upon you. Today marks the end of your blight upon this world.”
Then he began in German. Then Spanish. Portuguese. Mandarin. Japanese. Viper held his head. The voice inside the headache roared: “Rise up my brothers. Now is the time!”
“Get Sentinel outta Hotsleep,” barked Director Grey. By the time the beacon of liberty arrived at Vanguard HQ, reports were pouring in; the attacks had already begun:
Across America, dogs were gruesomely killing their masters in their beds!
Zoos across the world reported animal escapes!
Ships at sea in every ocean were calling in maydays!
In Congo, mountain gorillas attacked a militia camp known for poaching!
In Hong Kong, rat hordes ate the flesh off pedestrian shoppers in a grotesque nightmare!
Bees, long missing in America, returned in savage attacks!
In Brazil, jungle wildlife entered Sao Paolo!
In Canada, polar bears were killing oil pipeline workers!
It was 3am eastern time when the world turned against the human race.
OOC: Actions?
Current Conditions:
Forester: Hit Points: 18 Power Points: 69
Kairos: Hit Points: 42 Power Points: 82
Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 40 Power Points: 75
Sentinel: Hit Points: 20 Power Points: 60
Slingshot: Hit Points: 43 Power Points: 90 Invulnerability: 8
Symbiote: Hit Points: 31 Power Points: 80 Charges: 14
Viper: Full
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Forester:
Forester was disappointed in the interrogation. Inexperienced in this line of work, the archer had hoped that Dr. C. might be a "loaded gun" of information behind the animalistic plot. Still, it was good to work with Lightning Strike, whose decisive independence seemed to keep him two steps ahead of everyone else.
When Grey walks in, Forester turns to the CHESS director and says, "Hey, who's the new guy?"
The archer continues: "It's good to see have you back, Viper. Things haven't been the same without you."
When the reports of animal attacks come in, Forester notices that all of the land attacks seem to come from omnivorous and carnivorous mammals.
OOC, Part 1: On land, are any of the attacks from herbivores? Are the sea attacks from whales--or are sharks, squids, and other non-mammalian animals involved? Are there reports of any attacks from birds, arthropods, reptiles, amphibians?
OOC, Part 2: Though 100% human, Forester identifies with the coyote of Native American legend. Given his connection to that mythological character, and his early encounter with a lycanthrope, does Forester experience any unusual sensations during Primate's speech? (He doesn't expect to, but he's also learned not to take anything for granted.)
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Forester was disappointed in the interrogation. Inexperienced in this line of work, the archer had hoped that Dr. C. might be a "loaded gun" of information behind the animalistic plot. Still, it was good to work with Lightning Strike, whose decisive independence seemed to keep him two steps ahead of everyone else.
When Grey walks in, Forester turns to the CHESS director and says, "Hey, who's the new guy?"
The archer continues: "It's good to see have you back, Viper. Things haven't been the same without you."
When the reports of animal attacks come in, Forester notices that all of the land attacks seem to come from omnivorous and carnivorous mammals.
OOC, Part 1: On land, are any of the attacks from herbivores? Are the sea attacks from whales--or are sharks, squids, and other non-mammalian animals involved? Are there reports of any attacks from birds, arthropods, reptiles, amphibians?
OOC, Part 2: Though 100% human, Forester identifies with the coyote of Native American legend. Given his connection to that mythological character, and his early encounter with a lycanthrope, does Forester experience any unusual sensations during Primate's speech? (He doesn't expect to, but he's also learned not to take anything for granted.)
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Kairos:
OOC: Jeff, if I can, I'll go ahead and spend a luck point to get the silver weapon.
Also OOC: I guess that we need to see if CHESS or affiliates can trace the transmission back to the source. While I'm sure that satellites are involved and not just land lines, would Lightning Strike have any chance of jumping into the system and tracing the signal back?
We don't have anything else to go on other than the irregular thermal readings in the AEGIS Spire. I'd say that we hit it, assuming that the "irregular thermal readings" are actually something on which we SHOULD act. "Irregular", I am assuming, means more than a large population of stray cats or something.
I say we go, go, go to the AEGIS Spire.
-------------------------------------
Sentinel:
First all, welcome back Don!!!
Second, well at least Kirk is well rested :)
it appears my instinct was wrong (thus far) (unless of course I was overpowered during the Hotsleep with the idea of Primate making us believe nothing was there - with that in mind, Kirk would have the mental readings double-checked for irregularities during the time he was in the process- were there brief moments of unusual brain patterns at any time that could have corresponded to Kirk being overwhelmed and false perceptions being given to him) (or it could have been that it would take a much longer time for the effect to settle in) (or it could be a legit dead end).
However, I would have to ask prior to the hotsleep during the interrogation:
I would not go along with the rest of them! I refused! The Primate would have them believe that animals are superior to men, but I know better.
Who contacted 'them' about the break? When? How did he have any contact with the Primate? They would have already been on the move from the impact before the Primate was released from the Hotsleep. Do we have an indication that he had made contact with the animal inmates prior to the break?
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Symbiote:
(OOC: Don, welcome back to the game. Nice to "meet" you).
IC: Symbiote introduces himself to Viper. "It's nice to meet you," the Copying Crusader says to the Reptilian Roustabout. "I read the case file on your adventure with the Star Giant--remarkable work, from you and everybody. I specialize in metahuman physiology, I'd like to run some tests on you some time if you're willing."
(OOC: Don, welcome back to the game. Nice to "meet" you).
IC: Symbiote introduces himself to Viper. "It's nice to meet you," the Copying Crusader says to the Reptilian Roustabout. "I read the case file on your adventure with the Star Giant--remarkable work, from you and everybody. I specialize in metahuman physiology, I'd like to run some tests on you some time if you're willing."
Upon the "uprising of the animals," Symbiote proposes the following.
"It looks like AEGIS Spire is our best lead for the moment, but I'd like to try a few things, while they're gassing up the jet if nothing else. First, Viper, you say that you're hearing this voice...can you get a sense of direction from it, any idea of the source? Would you be willing to let me copy your powers for a few minutes, see if I can make something from it? As somebody who doesn't live in a body permanently melded to animal genetics I might be able to bring a different perspective to the problem.
"Secondly, I'd like to capture an animal and run it though the MRI," (OOC: Or any other applicable high falutin' super duper scanning equipment we have at the headquarters)
Symbiote continues. "Doesn't have to be anything special--Sentinel, if you can fly outside the tower and capture a pigeon in an energy bubble that'd probably work. I want to see exactly what part of the animal brain seems to be effected by whatever it is Primate's doing. This could be useful for a) tracking it back to the source (assuming it's not AEGIS Spire), and, b) coming up with a countermeasure--maybe there's an ultrasonic frequency or a microwave radiation burst or something that can jam Primate's influence, even if only temporarily. This may take hours of research to determine, but if Lightning Strike, Doc Rocket and I can at least get a diagnosis started, maybe Doc can finish the countermeasure while the rest of the team is en route to Greece."
"As I say, though, it looks like Primate's probably holed up in the Spire. Does CHESS have a floor plan? What were the defenses for the place?" Symbiote asks.
"One more thing...does our jet have any stealth capabilities? If nothing else, we'd better be on guard flying in. A flock of birds flying a suicide mission into the engines could bring us down fast. I'd recommend having Sentinel on alert, ready to put a protective force bubble around the jet."
The first moment he gets to himself after the crisis erupts, Hal finds a phone and calls his sister, filling her in on what he knows about the situation.
"Listen, get over to Dad's house and plan on staying there for the duration," Hal says. "I used to think all those years on the force made him a little paranoid, but right now I'm glad he has sturdy locks and a good alarm. Tell him to keep his service pistol loaded and ready until this is over." Hal paused for a moment. "And call Betty and invite her to stay too...yeah, I know, she's not your favorite person since the divorce, but we've actually gotten along pretty well the past year or so and whatever else happens I don't want her hurt. Thanks."
------------------------------------
Sentinel:
Some additional stuff:
Jeff: If Kirk feels anything other than refreshed from sleep upon coming out of the Hotsleep, let me know.
Upon his return to seeing Viper: Kirk upon returning is consumed with trying to piece together what is happening. On seeing Viper a big smile crosses his face and he races over to him slapping him on the back, "I knew you couldn't keep away, you big lug! Although Vanguard has grown in your absence, things haven't been the same without your 'sparking' personality around. A round on me once we're done saving the world again!"
"Smitty must be thrilled your back knowing you'll keep the place hopping!"
(For Smitty, remind me of his real name - this was the bar keep that was a 'special contact' of Viper within Chess when Vanguard first made contact --- I can't remember his 'real' name now - hopefully I'm remembering correctly, it was Viper that did that, right?).
Back to the mission at hand:
Kirk will assist Symbiote in acquiring some animals for him to check.
On the pattern emerging:
Does the time frame show a localized outbreak in one place after another with a specific radius and time of effect? Does it seem to occur in one locale after another or several simultaneously or everywhere at once?Do the animals return to normal afterwards? Are there signs of abnormal intelligence in addition to the aggressive behavior? Are all animals in the 'hotzone' behaving in this manner or only some?
Kirk will also try to get a read on the 'energy' changes to the environment regarding any outbreak of aggressive animal behavior he is near. This is, unfortunately, limited in scope by Kirk's 'range', but if in a 'hotzone' he might be able to determine the energy type being used by Primate to execute this process and thus help Symbiote, Strike, Rocket in the right direction for a counter-measure.
It seems apparent that Primate would need a source of power to accomplish this and we need to continue to determine if its a physical energy type that we are dealing with (preferable) or some sort of mental energy control (tougher to counter with everyone's lack of expertise).
------------------------------------
GM Replies:
Forester wrote: On land, are any of the attacks from herbivores? Are the sea attacks from whales--or are sharks, squids, and other non-mammalian animals involved? Are there reports of any attacks from birds, arthropods, reptiles, amphibians?
GM Reply: The attacks have just begun, but it seems to involve every kind of animal!
In England, cattle stampeded near a slaughterhouse, killing and injuring ranchers and slaughterers.
Reports are coming in from around the globe of planes going missing. This could be Symbiote’s theory of bird strikes!
More specific info from the sea attacks is still forthcoming, but unrelated to the maydaying ships, there are shark attack reports in Australia, Florida, South Africa and elsewhere!
Forester wrote: Does Forester experience any unusual sensations during Primate's speech?
GM Reply: No. But even if he were a lycanthrope, it might not affect him while in human form. ;)
Kairos wrote: Jeff, if I can, I'll go ahead and spend a luck point to get the silver weapon.
GM Reply: You can. I’ll write it into the story asap. Stay tuned!
Kairos wrote: While I'm sure that satellites are involved and not just land lines, would Lightning Strike have any chance of jumping into the system and tracing the signal back?
GM Reply: Maybe.
Kairos wrote: "Irregular", I am assuming, means more than a large population of stray cats…
GM Reply: Yes.
Sentinel wrote: It appears my instinct was wrong
GM Reply: Doc Rocket saw Kirk’s disappointment and said. “Your instinct was right, my boy. What you discovered in Hotsleep does nothing to disprove your theory as to how the Primate may have developed his (apparent) mental powers over the past years in Hotsleep!”
Sentinel wrote: Sentinel asked Chiropterus: Who contacted 'them' about the break? When? How did he have any contact with the Primate? They would have already been on the move from the impact before the Primate was released from the Hotsleep. Do we have an indication that he had made contact with the animal inmates prior to the break?
GM OOC Reply: As mentioned in the now classic Issue 63, Chiropterus will offer nothing more, perhaps in fear of an enemy who can make contact with Chiropterus mentally!
Later, assuming Viper opens up about those crazy voices in his head, many of Sentinel’s questions are answered.
Symbiote wrote: This may take hours of research to determine
GM Reply: This is an accurate guess, and the jet will be ready in under an hour. But Doc is willing (thrilled really) to continue what you, Strike and he begin.
Symbiote wrote: "As I say, though, it looks like Primate's probably holed up in the Spire. Does CHESS have a floor plan? What were the defenses for the place?"
GM Reply: The building’s ownership is in dispute, and American CHESS had no relationship to European AEGIS, but CHESS will get on it asap.
Symbiote wrote: ...does our jet have any stealth capabilities?
GM Reply: Against radar, but not visual contact.
Symbiote wrote:
The first moment he gets to himself after the crisis erupts, Hal finds a phone and calls his sister, filling her in on what he knows about the situation.
GM Reply: Shelley is woken from a dead sleep but is soon alert. When she is filled in she says, “Sounds like you guys need all the help you can get. Can I come? Look, I can phone Dad and Betty.”
Sentinel wrote:
If Kirk feels anything other than refreshed from sleep upon coming out of the Hotsleep, let me know.
GM Reply: I wouldn’t call it refreshed. Kirk was just placed into a chemical-driven sleep, and then injected with drugs to wake up earlier than scheduled. He feels pretty crummy right now.
And if you follow Symbiote’s plan of placing an energy bubble around the Manta Craft, Kirk will get no rest on the flight to Greece. No rest for the weary.
Sentinel wrote: For Smitty, remind me of his real name - this was the bar keep that was a 'special contact' of Viper within Chess when Vanguard first made contact --- I can't remember his 'real' name now - hopefully I'm remembering correctly, it was Viper that did that, right?
GM Reply: Good memory. Viper made a CHESS contact with Molloy, who works on the Omni-Carrier.
I think Don used a Luck Point to do it.
Sentinel wrote: Does the time frame show a localized outbreak in one place after another with a specific radius and time of effect? Does it seem to occur in one locale after another or several simultaneously or everywhere at once? Do the animals return to normal afterwards? Are there signs of abnormal intelligence in addition to the aggressive behavior? Are all animals in the 'hotzone' behaving in this manner or only some?
GM Reply: Early reports are just starting, so patterns will take some time to reveal themselves.
So far: It appears simultaneous. There are no “hot zones.” This is apparently a global phenomenon.
There hasn’t been an “afterwards” yet to see if animals return to “normal.” None have exhibited what could be called human-level intelligence.
------------------------------------------------------
Symbiote:
“This is an accurate guess, and the jet will be ready in under an hour. But Doc is willing (thrilled really) to continue what you, Strike and he begin.”
Excellent. I assume that Doc can be in audio (and, given CHESS's tech capabilities, maybe even video) contact with us during the flight if he needs a second or third opinion.
“ Kirk will get no rest on the flight to Greece. No rest for the weary.”
To clarify, I don't think it'd be necessary for him to have a force bubble around the plane the entire time, just maybe on takeoff and landing and if we see or radar detects a flock of birds coming towards us. If necessary, Kirk could probably catch some shuteye over the mid-Atlantic, where there are few landmasses and therefore little chance of running across any birds.
“ Shelley is woken from a dead sleep but is soon alert. When she is filled in she says, “Sounds like you guys need all the help you can get. Can I come? Look, I can phone Dad and Betty.”
Before I answer this question, did Shelly take the CHESS lab tech job we discussed a few issues back? If so, is she stationed on the helicarrier, at Vanguard headquarters or elsewhere?
------------------------------------
Sentinel:
OOC:
“It appears simultaneous. There are no “hot zones.” This is apparently a global phenomenon.”
Oh, goody. So it appears that somehow the Primate's powers (either on his own or enhanced by a device has a worldwide range - let's hope for a device being involved to amp his influence and that he hasn't grown that powerful).
Don't think that I overlooked the GM no reply to the inquiry about following the brain patterns in Hotsleep to see unusual activity where an 'attack' could have taken place - could be you overlooked this in your reply or it could be Kirk is in trouble - if so, hopefully it was only enough to make him think nothing was discovered in the Hotsleep and not enough so that he's a 'sleeper agent' for the Primate since half the team may already be sleeper agents of the Black Bat from the last mission; well the more the merrier :) Definitely not going to be good for Kirk's psyche after everything Swastika did in this regard and his anger against this sort of stuff to begin with. Hopefully I'm wrong here.
Anyway, unless something new comes up prior to our leaving for Aegis, Kirk will spend the hour trying to help locally to save whatever citizens he can and help contain whatever animals possible. He will continue to work on his 'feeling' out the energy flowing through the areas to see if he can determine anything out of the ordinary to pass on to our scientific geniuses to counter the Primate.
If the team feels the shields around the carrier are a smart move, he'd do it for the trip.
Despite being physically tired from the activity, it would seem all of these things could be done with little to no power loss (and hey, he's 21 - they don't get tired quickly and bounce back seamlessly). If he puts up his shields to assist with the citizens, as he manipulates them to help civilians and contain animals, it would seem they'd take little damage - he could then expand his personal shields to cover the craft as it travels with no additional power exertion, and upon safe landing, contact them back to protect himself. Unless something serious comes up all of this could be done likely from one creation, and depending on what he actually encounters, even that may be almost totally intact. Even if he sees a little action, hopefully once they land in Europe he'd have a few moments to rest and get his power levels to full before the entry to old Aegis headquarters. Naturally although looking to conserve his power for the mission, he'd expend whatever was necessary in a heroic way to protect his teammates and assist people.
Assuming Viper does open up about this and I think he would (Don?), he (and you) can let us know about the sort of contact he experienced. Did if feel personal like the Primate was in his head directly speaking to him or general like he was within range of listening to a radio broadcast or an announcement over a load speaker? How compelled did he feel from the message? Did he feel he had to resist obeying it? If it seemed like a personal contact, does he have any feeling of the presence still being with him? (If so, perhaps Kirk could try to 'read' him with his permission to be sure Primate isn't actually keeping up with them through Viper) Has he felt this way before? (ie perhaps Primate tried a 'broadcast' of sorts as a trial run).
And by the way, has Don actually posted anything yet? Is Viper's return a ploy by our GM to infiltrate our ranks??? Da Dummm!!!!
As mentioned, that's the plan for Kirk unless something new develops prior to the next issue and their traveling.
------------------------------------
Forester:
Private to GM:
OOC: Hey Jeff, Your last reply again suggested that Forester may or may not be a werecreature, based on his recently acquired knowledge that he may have been bitten by a lycanthrope during his original encounter with Marksman. That singular event took place many moons ago game time.
Based on Forester's mythological studies, all related CHESS records, and anything he can find on Jarkapedia.com, what is the longest recorded time between contracting lycanthrope and actually transforming into a werebeing?
Theoretically, is it possible to be a carrier of lycathrope without showing signs of the disease--only to begin to exhibit symptoms at a much later date?
Other than a full moon, are there any other documented or legendary triggers for an unwanted, human-to-animal transformation?
Other than the times he has been knocked unconscious in battle, has
Forester ever blacked out since that day he met Marksman? Has he ever lost time? Woke up in an unknown/unexpected location? Found his clothing or other belongings in a tattered array? Discovered unexpected wounds on his body? You get the idea... (As earlier entries have established, Forester doesn't consume alcohol or use other mind-altering substances, so chemical use won't come into play here.)
Given Primate's ability to control animals, his interest in extranormals with animal powers, and the recurring reminders that Forester might be infected with Lon Chaney Jr. Disease, Forester will set up an emergency appointment with Doc Rocket for a full medical evaluation before heading out on the next mission.
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Viper:
OOC: Hey Folks!
I was a bit overwhelmed at the sudden influx of e-mails, so I'm sorry for the slow response. I was also working the local festival! (how ironic with Viper's circus past!) Deep down I'm a Carny!
Character Sheet: Jeff, if its possible I'll spend that training on an ability that makes me harder to hit. And I hear Simian's Mental Broadcast, but do I have the urge to *Rise Up*?
After Simian's BBC telecast..
"Alright! I've had it! In the past I've had some trouble getting a hairy bearded lady or two outta my head, but this ape has got to go.
He's telling me to 'Rise up my brothers. Now is the time.' That can't be good fer the common folks out there."
Viper crushes a beer can and then tosses it away. After opening the second can...
"I'm ready. What do we do?"
“ Symbiote introduces himself to Viper. "It's nice to meet you," the Copying Crusader says to the Reptilian Roustabout. "I read the case file on your adventure with the Star Giant--remarkable work, from you and everybody. I specialize in metahuman physiology, I'd like to run some tests on you some time if you're willing."
"Tests?" Viper scowls. "I don't test well, Symbiote. I just ne'er took ta studyin'. I remember Mrs Crabtree always tellin' me, 'Jake!
You have to study for these spelling tests! Or you'll end up another snake in the grass like yer father!' I guess she was right."
::Viper raises his beer can in salute to Mrs Crabtree and Dad::
Here's to bein' a snake in the grass. I s'pose you can take a look at me. Maybe you can figger out why I can hear this hairy ape and
I'm not mauling any humans. Although there's this cute juggler, back in Wallhalla County, Florida, that I'd like to take out for a few drinks and some crawfish. That has definite mauling possibilities! "
::Viper winks at Simbiote::
"Hey Kirk! I was meanin' to go visit Molloy, but you know how Doc here, is. All work work work. I might wander down and give him a visit. ::Viper leans into Kirk a bit and whispers too loudly:: This
Synbiote fella wants to do some tests on me. Is he on the up and up?
I jus wanna make sure he's as straight as one of Forester's arrows!
Maybe you can sit in on any tests he wants to do? "
"Symbiote, maybe we can compare what's tickin' in my head, and compare it to the pigeon you capture. ::Viper finishes his last can:: And no jokes about the pigeon bein' smarter!"
------------------------------------
OOC GM Replies:
(Don, you recall that in-character replies happen in the next issue.
OOC replies happen as soon as I can manage.)
Symbiote wrote: Excellent. I assume that Doc can be in audio (and, given CHESS's tech capabilities, maybe even video) contact with us during the flight if he needs a second or third opinion.
GM Reply: Yes.
Symbiote wrote: To clarify, I don't think it'd be necessary for him to have a force bubble around the plane the entire time, just maybe on takeoff and landing and if we see or radar detects a flock of birds coming towards us. If necessary, Kirk could probably catch some shuteye over the mid-Atlantic, where there are few landmasses and therefore little chance of running across any birds.
GM Reply: Thanks. Understood. One point: transatlantic flight routes hug the land somewhat. Newfoundland and Labrador to Greenland to Iceland to Faroe Islands to Scotland. The seemingly curved path on a flat map is actually straight due to the curve of the globe. Of course, you can chart a course over the water.
Symbiote wrote: Before I answer this question, did Shelly take the CHESS lab tech job we discussed a few issues back? If so, is she stationed on the helicarrier, at Vanguard headquarters or elsewhere?
GM Reply: She applied and was deemed overqualified! She successfully reapplied for the position of scientist. She is currently undergoing training at a Manhattan CHESS facility. She may be stationed on the Omni-Carrier, CHESS Castle or CHESS Vault (where unusual artifacts and devices are contained and studied), but hasn’t received her assignment yet.
Sentinel wrote: Don't think that I overlooked the GM no reply to the inquiry about following the brain patterns in Hotsleep to see unusual activity where an 'attack' could have taken place - could be you overlooked this in your reply
GM Reply: I did. Sorry. There were no unusual readings during the Hotsleep process, however all subjects take to the process differently.
Forester wrote: Based on Forester's mythological studies, all related CHESS records, and anything he can find on Jarkapedia.com, what is the longest recorded time between contracting lycanthrope and actually transforming into a werebeing?
GM Reply: Some of this is moot since our side discussion. But will reply. Nowhere near the amount of time that had passed since the attack on Frederick. According to myths, the victim transforms no later than the next full moon. (~28 days)
Forester wrote: Theoretically, is it possible to be a carrier of lycathrope without showing signs of the disease--only to begin to exhibit symptoms at a much later date?
GM Reply: There is no information, mythical or otherwise, of such an event.
Forester wrote: Other than a full moon, are there any other documented or legendary triggers for an unwanted, human-to-animal transformation?
GM Reply: Hyena transforms regardless of the lunar cycle. He escaped from CHESS Castle before an examination of his condition returned results.
Forester wrote: Other than the times he has been knocked unconscious in battle, has Forester ever blacked out since that day he met Marksman? Has he ever lost time? Woke up in an unknown/unexpected location? Found his clothing or other belongings in a tattered array? Discovered unexpected wounds on his body?
GM Reply: No.
Viper wrote: Character Sheet: Jeff, if its possible I'll spend that training on an ability that makes me harder to hit.
GM Reply: Fine. Your Level 2 advancement will give you a -2 to be hit. Will modify your sheet and forward to you.
Viper wrote: And I hear Simian's Mental Broadcast, but do I have the urge to *Rise Up*?
GM Reply: No.
------------------------------------
Symbiote:
"Can I come?"
Hal thought to himself, rubbing his temples, We're going to go waltz with Primate, for pity's sake, and an entire Wild Kingdom of sociopaths, and Shelly wants to come along. Girl's got more guts than brains, and considering her brains that's saying quite a bit. He thought fast. He didn't want another fight or hard feelings, plus there was one area in which she might actually be able to help.
"This one's for combatants only, Shel, CHESS regulations," Hal said. He assumed this was true, and even if it wasn't it was Hal's Regulations--no way he was letting his sister anywhere near the likes of Primate and Hyena. "But call Betty, tell her to get over to Dad's and then head down here, to Vanguard Headquarters. I'll speak to Doc Rocket, we'll have a pass and security clearance waiting for you downstairs. With Strike and me in Europe he's going to need help in the lab, can't think of anybody else I'd rather have working on this project."
Hal briefly leaned away from the receiver, then back in. "Listen, I gotta go, I think Sentinel is back with our bird," he said, whether it was actually true or not--he was determined to get off the phone with her before she could seriously argue. "Tell Dad and Betty we've both been called in by the government to help with the scientific aspect of this crisis--that's true, as far as it goes. Be safe, I'll bring you something nice from Europe." He then hangs up.
Symbiote then goes to explain the situation to Doc Rocket. "Can you bring her in on the project, Doc? She's smart as a whip, better than me at physics, truth be told. She'll be a big help and I'd feel a lot better knowing she was safe here at the headquarters."
Before leaving with the rest of the crew, Symbiote makes one more request. Can we get a portable Hotsleep unit to bring along? Or at least some serious sedatives? If the best case scenario happens and we manage to subdue Primate, we should probably keep him sedated until we get him back to CHESS Castle. If he has animal control powers now we don't want him arranging an airborne attack on the trip back from Greece.
------------------------------------
Forester:
Forester will accompany any/all of the other heroes to track down Primate. Since none of Forester's powers will help him in this (at least for now), he'll have to follow the direction of CHESS. Wherever they want him, he'll go.
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Sentinel:
"He's the real deal Vipe. He's got Strike's smarts but without the 'tude. He's earned my trust and respect. He designed a device that can read your powers and duplicate them - that's how he powers up; short term it seems. If your comfortable with that, he might be able to tell you more about your powers than you know. If you want me to sit in on things, I've no problem with that and I'm sure he won't either."
and then Kirk added with a smile ... "besides, your gut already told you to trust him, you took at a swing at me the first time we met in half the time you've been around him ."
------------------------------------
"He's the real deal Vipe. He's got Strike's smarts but without the 'tude. He's earned my trust and respect. He designed a device that can read your powers and duplicate them - that's how he powers up; short term it seems. If your comfortable with that, he might be able to tell you more about your powers than you know. If you want me to sit in on things, I've no problem with that and I'm sure he won't either."
and then Kirk added with a smile ... "besides, your gut already told you to trust him, you took at a swing at me the first time we met in half the time you've been around him ."
------------------------------------
Slingshot:
[OOC] Holy crap! talk about a week to miss the posting.. Viper's back and Armageddon's happening! So I'm sorry for possibly posting stuff that people might want to add to. [/OOC]
[OOC] Holy crap! talk about a week to miss the posting.. Viper's back and Armageddon's happening! So I'm sorry for possibly posting stuff that people might want to add to. [/OOC]
Slingshot slaps Viper on the back, "Man, it's good to see you back."[After Simian's broadcast and Viper's report of Simian's mental commands]"Woah.. I'm not a super power expert, but I would be surprised if this was not aided by either a satellite or boosted somehow through some form of technology. Is there a way that Chess can track that somehow? Either a huge energy signature or an abnormally huge broadcast signal."
[ooc]I'll follow and help however I can. I haven't been able to follow all the emails so I'm not sure if any of this was followed up on. [/ooc]
------------------------------------
Kairos:
OOC: To recap:
OOC: To recap:
I'll use a luck point to get a silver sword and urge going to Greece to the AEGIS tower. Otherwise, I'm quiet.
