EV #78 - "Down Time"

[GM Mad]

Eternal Vigilance #78 - "Down Time"

Roll Call: Stargirl


After saying goodnight to everyone, Gloria rides the elevator from Dr. Williams Clinic up to the penthouse suite that she shares with her mom. Once there, Gloria asks Edgar if there is any files about her newly gained powers.

“Yes, Miss Gloria,” Edgar answers. “Displaying them now.”

Gloria spends some time going over the files, trying out things as she goes along. She’s so engrossed in the process, that Gloria doesn’t realize that she’s no longer alone.

“They grow up so fast.” Turning, Gloria is surprised to find Goldstar standing in the room. “Isn’t it past your bedtime, young lady?”

“Mom!” Gloria cries out and she goes to hug her mother. “You got here fast! Edgar just called a few hours ago.”

“I was already on my way here,” Goldstar answers as her form changes into Gwen Starr. As Gwen she has similar looks to Gloria, but is just older and appears in her late thirties. “So coming here didn’t take me very long. While this change in you is an unexpected development, I’ll be here to help you through it.”

“That sounds great, mom.”

“Since neither one of us is tired, we can chat for a time before turning in,” Gwen states. “I am sure that you have many questions.”

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Flux, Eldrich, Powershift, and Sea Guard

After departing the Infinity Exports Rig, Flux flies back to the Sea Base with Eldrich in tow. Edgar will greet Eldrich when he arrives. However, both Sea Guard and Powershift are a bit concerned.

“Who is this man?” Powershift can’t help but wonder.

“Do you think it’s wise to let him stay in our base?” Sea Guard adds. “This smells fishy to me.”


Afterwards, Flux returns to his apartment and crashes. The next morning, he awakens to find a message waiting for him from Goldstar herself on his comlink!

“Hi Flux, this is Goldstar. I got back into town late last night. Anyway, Gloria and I are going to have a little informal get together late tomorrow afternoon at our penthouse at the Starr Building. A simple cook out with friends and family. Let me know if you can make it. Bring a date if you want.”

“Also, I’ll be holding a meeting Monday afternoon at the Sea Base. We’ve got a lot to discuss. See you later.”


As Flux is getting ready to depart, he bumps into his new neighbor who moved in a few days ago. He really hadn’t met the woman before, but is surprised when he does she her. She’s a stunning woman in her mid-twenties with platinum blond hair. But even more then her looks, Flux realizes that she was one of the women Brother Basilisk turned into stone last night!


Back out at the Sea Base, Goldstar and Stargirl arrive around noon. They’ve come to test out Gloria’s powers in the Situation Room on the base. They meet Eldrich and chat with Sea Guard and Powershift. The informal picnic invitation is extended to all present, although Eldrich might not fit into an informal gathering very well right now.

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Menagerie

When Lily checks her comlink, she receives Goldstar’s message about the informal gathering at the Starr Building on Sunday afternoon and then the team meeting on Monday. Goldstar says to bring Donny and the kids if you can attend. Otherwise, her day goes as planned.


Roll Call: Blackout and Lavender

Elsewhere in San Diego, Blackout and Lavender rise to start their day. After a time they go out shopping and sight seeing.

(I’m not sure if Blackout has a Comlink or not. If he does, he’ll receive the invites from Goldstar on it.)


Roll Call: Tesla

The next time Tesla checks her Comlink, Goldstar’s message is there about the invitations.

Her sister Kelly is happy to see her, of course. Kelly is upbeat, in spite of her condition. She’ll ask Krystie about what’s new, what’s going on, who she’s dating and all those things that sisters share.

The day will pass peacefully and pleasantly.


Roll Call: Frostbite

Frostbite returns home after leaving the Starr Building. The mood is somber at home.

Upon reaching home Cyrus will hug his father, like he hasn’t seen him in a while. “I saw the news, I thought you were on it. Guess you maybe out of a job, huh?”

“Something will come up,” Cyrus’ dad answers, but it’s clear from his face that he’s not sure just what.


Later the next morning, Gloria will call. She tells Cyrus that her mom is back in town and that they’re having a little gathering tomorrow afternoon and that he’s invited.


Roll Call: Backlash

Next morning, Backlash will find Goldstar’s message on his Comlink. Otherwise his day proceeds as planned.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Those catching the news will learn that the villainess Phoenix was spotted in town last night, but didn’t seem to be involved in any criminal activity. From what you know, Phoenix was the head of a group call the Rat Pack that had been based in El Paso. There was a conflict in El Paso a few weeks ago involving the Rat Pack, the Young Champions and the Thugmaster’s Elite. Very little seems to remain of the Rat Pack, as some of the members joined the Elite and the Young Champions. Given that that Thugmaster’s Elite was battled last night, the appearance of Phoenix can’t be a coincidence.

For those characters not mentioned here, you were covered in the previous post. Continue on with your private lives.

Lastly, woulld you all be interested in having our character sheets available online? Let me know.

Now what?

[Stargirl]

Stargirl:

Entering the apartment, Gloria grabs a bite to eat and a water before settling in at the computer. Like most everything in the Starr Building, it’s tied into Edgar.

"Yes, Miss Gloria," Edgar answers. "Displaying them now."

“Thanks, Edgar.”

Moving closer, Gloria studies the results. For some reason some of what she reads seems familiar, but there are other things that are new to her.

“I can survive in space?!” Gloria cries out in surprise. “That’s where stars hang out, so I guess it fits. This is just too weird.”

Gloria spends some time going over the files, trying out things as she goes along. She's so engrossed in the process, that Gloria doesn't realize that she's no longer alone.

"They grow up so fast." Turning, Gloria is surprised to find Goldstar standing in the room. "Isn't it past your bedtime, young lady?"

"Mom!" Gloria cries out and she goes to hug her mother. "You got here fast! Edgar just called a few hours ago."

"I was already on my way here," Goldstar answers as her form changes into Gwen Starr. As Gwen she has similar looks to Gloria, but is just older and appears in her late thirties. "So coming here didn't take me very long. While this change in you is an unexpected development, I'll be here to help you through it."

"That sounds great, mom."

"Since neither one of us is tired, we can chat for a time before turning in," Gwen states. "I am sure that you have many questions."

“Uh, yeah quite a lot of questions actually. Like if everyone knew this was going to happen, why not tell me? And why wasn’t this supposed to happen now? Is the stuff in this file true? I can really survive in outer space? And what’s up with this costume? Can I make any changes to it? And what was this about a transformed state?”

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

Goldstar was on her way back to Earth when the message from Edgar arrived. Those members of the Vigilant who have been involved with Tesseract’s efforts are finally back. With those tasks over with, there are new ones to deal with. Goldstar could have flown back to Earth under her own power, but it’s hard to bring stuff with you that way. So she returned in the Hand of the Guardian, an automated Starguard starship. The ship was cloaked behind the moon and Goldstar simply flew the rest of the way home. Gloria is at the computer when Goldstar steps into the living room.

"They grow up so fast." Turning, Gloria is surprised to find Goldstar standing in the room. "Isn't it past your bedtime, young lady?"

"Mom!" Gloria cries out and she goes to hug her mother. "You got here fast! Edgar just called a few hours ago."

"I was already on my way here," Goldstar answers as her form changes into Gwen Starr. As Gwen she has similar looks to Gloria, but is just older and appears in her late thirties. "So coming here didn't take me very long. While this change in you is an unexpected development, I'll be here to help you through it."

"That sounds great, mom."

"Since neither one of us is tired, we can chat for a time before turning in," Gwen states. "I am sure that you have many questions."

“Uh, yeah quite a lot of questions actually. Like if everyone knew this was going to happen, why not tell me? And why wasn’t this supposed to happen now? Is the stuff in this file true? I can really survive in outer space? And what’s up with this costume? Can I make any changes to it? And what was this about a transformed state?”

“Those are a few questions,” Gwen says with a grin. “Let’s work backwards here. Your transformed state is when you are Stargirl. When you are Gloria, you just another girl without powers. Only in your transformed state do you have the powers of Stargirl. It’s the same with me, I go between being Gwen and Goldstar.”

“What’s wrong with your costume?” Gwen asks. “I think it’s cute. As you become more accustomed to your powers, you’ll be able to make changes to your costume as you see fit.”

“Yes, you can really survive in space. In your transformed state, you don’t need to breath to survive. So you can stay underwater for as long as you want to. You can also survive in the vacuum of space, resist radiation and endure extremes in temperature. You can generate a protective field of energy around your body and fly. In space you can even fly faster than the speed of light, but do not use that power lightly. Space is bigger than you can imagine and it’s very easy to loose your bearings and get lost. That happened to your great-grandmother once and it took her forever to find her way home.”

“As for why was this going to happen, but not yet, it’s complicated, sweetie.” From there Gwen will tell the story about how the Vigilant was originally created in an alternate timeline. That’s where the first Goldstar came from and how their actions led the birth of Tesseract who acts as the guardian of the time stream. The first Goldstar formed the Starguard, a galactic agency dedicated to galactic peace and allowing worlds to develop without outside interference.

“The first Goldstar wasn’t human, at least not as we understand the word. She was created, not born. She never had a childhood and her powers were far greater than ours. She didn’t need to sleep, for one thing. She was always Goldstar and didn’t have an untransformed state. She is also immortal and survived something like 3 billion years in the alternate timeline and has been around since the universe began in our timeline. So she’s something like 18 billion years old and more powerful the most of the super humans on earth combined. Given all of that, it became harder and harder for her to relate people. You see, we wield the power of the stars in our human bodies. The first Goldstar was a star in the form of a human. Eventually she transformed herself into a real star and that’s where she is now.”

“But Goldstar and her allies knew that this was going to happen and were prepared. That’s where grandma comes in. She was born from a genetically engineered embryo. Technically, she’d be the second Goldstar. Grandma Grace was the one who built the Starr Build and laid the groundwork for all that was to follow. She’s not really traveling the world right now; she’s actually running the Starguard on Alpha Prime. Her powers were passed on to me, and from me to you. When you have a child, she too will have our powers.”

“But unlike the first Goldstar, all of us are human. We were born, had childhoods and grew into adulthood. Our powers weren’t supposed to manifest until we were twenty and were mature enough to handle them. None of us are immortal either. We’re going to grow old and eventually die like everyone else, but our legacy will carry on in our children.”

“Tell you what, Gloria,” Gwen says with a smile as she shifts back to Goldstar form. “Let’s go sight seeing! Flying is easy. Just move in the direction that you want to go. Catch me if you can!”

Goldstar will fly back out of the apartment and fly straight up at top speed for a few seconds and then will slow down so that Gloria can catch up. Once she does, Goldstar will say, “FTL travel is just as easy. Just keep urging yourself to go faster and it’ll kick in automatically. Race you to the moon!”

With that Goldstar will shoot up once more and as soon as she is able go into FTL and fly to the moon. Once there, Goldstar will stop and allow Gloria to catch up with her.

“That wasn’t too hard?” Goldstar will say once Gloria arrives. “But now you know what I mean about getting lost out here. Be very careful about using this power. It’s late. We should probably get back home. Tomorrow morning I’ll take you out to the Vigilant Sea Base and you can try out your combat powers in the training simulator.”

[Stargirl]

Stargirl:

“Those are a few questions,” Gwen says with a grin. “Let’s work backwards here. Your transformed state is when you are Stargirl. When you are Gloria, you just another girl without powers. Only in your transformed state do you have the powers of Stargirl. It’s the same with me, I go between being Gwen and Goldstar.”

“Okay, powers in one form, no powers in the other. I got it.”

“What’s wrong with your costume?” Gwen asks. “I think it’s cute. As you become more accustomed to your powers, you’ll be able to make changes to your costume as you see fit.”

“I’m a sixteen year old girl who looks like she was dressed by her mother! You’ve got me covered up from the neck down! You show more skin then I do. If I’m going to have to wear a costume, I’d at least like to have something that reflects my personality. But if I’m going to be able to make my own changes, then it’ll be fine in the long run. I mean it’s not bad, just needs some improvements.”

“Yes, you can really survive in space. In your transformed state, you don’t need to breath to survive. So you can even stay underwater for as long as you want to. You can also survive in the vacuum of space, resist radiation and endure extremes in temperature. You can generate a protective field of energy around your body and fly. In space you can even fly faster than the speed of light, but do not use that power lightly. Space is bigger than you can imagine and it’s very easy to loose your bearings and get lost. That happened to your great-grandmother once and it took her forever to find her way home.”

“That’s really kind of mind blowing,” Gloria says. “To survive underwater and even in space. Freaky!”

“As for why was this going to happen, but not yet, it’s complicated, sweetie.” From there Gwen will tell the story about how the Vigilant was originally created in an alternate timeline. That’s where the first Goldstar came from and how their actions led the birth of Tesseract who acts as the guardian of the time stream. The first Goldstar formed the Starguard, a galaxy spanning agency dedicated to galactic peace and allowing worlds to develop without outside interference.

“The first Goldstar wasn’t human, at least not as we understand the word. She was created, not born. She never had a childhood and her powers were far greater than ours. She didn’t need to sleep, for one thing. She was always Goldstar and didn’t have an untransformed state. She is also immortal and survived something like 3 billion years in the alternate timeline and has been around since the universe began in our timeline. So she’s something like 18 billion years old and more powerful the most of the super humans on earth combined. Given all of that, it became harder and harder for her to relate people. You see we wield the power of the stars in our human bodies. The first Goldstar was a star in the form of a human. Eventually she transformed herself into a real star and that’s where she is now.”

“But Goldstar and her allies knew that this was going to happen and were prepared. That’s where grandma comes in. She was born from a genetically engineered embryo. Technically, she’d be the second Goldstar. Grandma Grace was the one who built the Starr Build and laid the groundwork for all that was to follow. She’s not really travelling the world right now; she’s actually running the Starguard on Alpha Prime. Her powers were passed on to me, and from me to you. When you have a child, she too will have our powers.”

“But unlike the first Goldstar, all of us are human. We were born, had childhoods and grew into adulthood. Our powers weren’t supposed to manifest until we were twenty and were mature enough to handle them. None of us are immortal either. We’re going to grow old and eventually die like everyone else, but our legacy will carry on in our children.”

“Now I know why this wasn’t supposed to happen until I was twenty,” Gloria quips. “It’s a lot to swallow! Let me see if I’ve got this right. Great Grandma is older than the universe and a real star. Grandma is off running a galactic police force, and someday I’m going to be the next Goldstar. I guess I can except that, but this stuff about not being immortal is just wrong!”

“Tell you what, Gloria,” Gwen says with a smile as she shifts back to Goldstar form. “Let’s go sight seeing! Flying is easy. Just move in the direction that you want to go. Catch me if you can!”

“Uhm, okay.” Gloria will concentrate and try to make the Stargirl costume appear. She guesses that means that she’s in this transformed state mom talked about. Once that is done, Stargirl will try to fly after Goldstar. She’s wobbly at first, but quickly gets the hang of it.

Goldstar is flying very fast and is nearly out of sight already! At least those glitters around her stand out in the dark. Gloria pushes herself but can’t manage the pace of her mother. But mom slows down and Gloria catches up.

“That’s pretty wild!” Stargirl says. “I’m just thankful that I’m not afraid of heights!”

Goldstar will fly back out of the apartment and fly straight up at top speed for a few seconds and then will slow down so that Gloria can catch up. Once she does, Goldstar will say, “FTL travel is just as easy. Just keep urging yourself to go faster and it’ll kick in automatically. Race you to the moon!”

“Race you to the moon? What do you mean race you to the moon?” Stargirl utters, but Goldstar is already gone.

Gloria gulps and decides to try it. After all her mom wouldn’t do anything harmful to her.

“If I’m going to learn how to use these powers, might as well just dive into the deep end of the pool!”

Stargirl starts to chase after Goldstar, accelerating higher into the sky. She dares to look down and the city just grows smaller and smaller below here.

Looking back up, Gloria sees mom there for a moment and then she’s gone! She must have accelerated to lightspeed. Gloria keeps pushing herself trying to catch up to her mother. Without even realizing it, Gloria has stopped breathing. She doesn’t even feel the need for air, as if not breathing was perfectly natural. And it has to be cold up here, but Gloria doesn’t even feel that.

The sky is growing darker and darker now and the clouds are now far below. All of the sudden, Stargirl accelerates to faster than light travel! It catches her by surprise, but seems to work just like mom said it would.

The moon that was very distant just a heartbeat ago is now huge! “STOP!” Stargirl yells, afraid that she’ll crash into the moon while moving faster than light. She closes her eyes by reflex and nothing happens. Opening her eyes once more, Gloria finds that she has indeed come to a stop. She’s hanging in space above the moon. The view is spectacular as she takes in the stars and the now distant earth. For a time, Stargirl just takes in the universe.

Eventually she spots Goldstar due to her sparkles and flies after her.

“That wasn’t too hard?” Goldstar will say once Gloria arrives. “But now you know what I mean about getting lost out here. Be very careful about using this power. It’s late. We should probably get back home. Tomorrow morning I’ll take you out to the Vigilant Sea Base and you can try out your combat powers in the training simulator.”

“Yeah, space is big all right,” Stargirl answers, still in awe of all of this. “How fast was I going? Training sounds good. I am starting to fell tired now.”

Stargirl will follow her mom home, wash up and turn in for the evening.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

“I’m a sixteen year old girl who looks like she was dressed by her mother! You’ve got me covered up from the neck down! You show more skin then I do. If I’m going to have to wear a costume, I’d at least like to have something that reflects my personality. But if I’m going to be able to make my own changes, then it’ll be fine in the long run. I mean it’s not bad, just needs some improvements.”

“And some girls show too much skin, Gloria,” Gwen retorts. “I’m not going to have my daughter going around dressed like a tramp. But as long as what you wear is tasteful, I won’t object to much. My costume is what the original Goldstar wore. I never really thought about changing it before.”

“Now I know why this wasn’t supposed to happen until I was twenty,” Gloria quips. “It’s a lot to swallow! Let me see if I’ve got this right. Great Grandma is older than the universe and a real star. Grandma is off running a galactic police force, and someday I’m going to be the next Goldstar. I guess I can except that, but this stuff about not being immortal is just wrong!”

“Being mortal gives us a mortal perspective on things. The original Goldstar lacked that. We might end up living longer than normal humans, but will not be immortal.”

“Yeah, space is big all right,” Stargirl answers, still in awe of all of this. “How fast was I going? Training sounds good. I am starting to fell tired now.”

“It is beautiful out here,” Goldstar agrees. After hearing Gloria’s question, Goldstar will activate her wrist communicator. “Edgar, how fast was Gloria going?”

“Approximately thirty-two times the speed of light, Miss Goldstar,” is Edgar’s respond.

“There you go. Come on, you look tired. Let’s go home.”

This time Goldstar will keep pace with Stargirl so that they can talk. The trip back to Earth is nearly a blink of an eye. It takes longer to reach the apartment.

“How about we have a get together at the apartment?” Goldstar suggests. “It’s been ages since we’ve had a cookout and company. I can invite the rest of the team and some other guests. It’ll be fun!”

After arriving home, Goldstar will change back to Gwen and compose several messages to be related to the other Vigilant members via their Comlinks. Since it isn’t an emergency, the messages will just be saved until the Comlinks are turned on. The gathering will be set of Sunday afternoon. Gwen will spend some time with Edgar going over what supplies will be needed, but she’ll eventually clean up and turn in for the night.

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

Saturday goes well, and Menagerie is resting after putting the kids to bed when she checks her commlink. Finding the message from Gwen, Lily considers for a moment. It appears to be after her planned outing with Ginny, so she sends back a reply saying they would be happy to attend.

On Sunday, Lily meets Ginny at Horton's Plaza after lunch. The pair wander among the shops, looking at this, trying on that, and catching up on each others' lives since they last got together (nearly three weeks ago!).

Returning home, Lily plays with Lance until it's time to pack up for the party. She and Donny load the kids' gear, strap the kids into the SUV and off they go. From where they live, it shouldn't take much more than 20 minutes to get there.

[Bruce]

Eldrich Arcane

The giant who flies has taken Eldrich to a place in the City of Wonders to stay. It seems he trusts Eldrich completely though others seem less sure.

“Who is this man?” Powershift can’t help but wonder.

“Do you think it’s wise to let him stay in our base?” Sea Guard adds. “This smells fishy to me.”

The giant seems to smile at that last remark but if there is a jest within it Eldrich cannot discern it.

"It's all right fellows. Eldrich was fooled by those others out in the realm of Morjok but he's not with them in spirit. The Purple Phlox would have said something if he were an evil enchanter or anything along those lines. He's got no way home now and we can use a resident wizard around here. Be nice, find him a bunk, try talking to him for a bit. And btw, Edgar can vouch for him too, can't you Edgar?"

A disembodied voice responds to the giants question in the affirmative.

"Good that's settled then", the giant says. "I 'm going home now. And sleeping. All night. Don't call me."

The giant departs with a wave, passing through the very walls as a spirit might, leaving Eldrich to face the others alone . . .

Eldrich senses magic from both of the men in front of him, radiating from items on their persons. The jewel imbedded in one man's chest radiates a disturbing taint.

"Might I inquire as to the nature of that jewel you posses? It has a taint of evil about it. Are you afflicted by this? I might be able to assist you in it's examination and possible removal."

When in doubt be polite. Offer aid. I can always fight for my life later if I have somehow given offense

{ My system has been down for a while and is now only partially functional so I could be wrong but I'm sure the website has COMPLETELY CHANGED IT'S APPEARANCE SOMEHOW! Right? Right?? }

[GM Mad]

{ My system has been down for a while and is now only partially functional so I could be wrong but I'm sure the website has COMPLETELY CHANGED IT'S APPEARANCE SOMEHOW! Right? Right?? }

Nah, it's just you, Bruce...

[Stargirl]

Stargirl:

“And some girls show too much skin, Gloria,” Gwen retorts. “I’m not going to have my daughter going around dressed like a tramp. But as long as what you wear is tasteful, I won’t object too much. My costume is what the original Goldstar wore. I never really thought about changing it before.”

“I’ve got the fashion sense of my mom,” Stargirl explains. “Whatever I come up with will be tasteful. Perhaps you might want to exercise your own fashion sense when it comes to your costume?”

“It is beautiful out here,” Goldstar agrees. After hearing Gloria’s question, Goldstar will activate her wrist communicator. “Edgar, how fast was Gloria going?”

“Approximately thirty-two times the speed of light, Miss Goldstar,” is Edgar’s respond.

“There you go. Come on, you look tired. Let’s go home.”

“Is that fast?” Stargirl asks, as this sort of thing just goes right over her head.


On the way home, mom has an idea.

“How about we have a get together at the apartment?” Goldstar suggests. “It’s been ages since we’ve had a cookout and company. I can invite the rest of the team and some other guests. It’ll be fun!”

“Sure, sounds fine to me. I’ll call Cyrus in the morning to see if he’s available. The Infinity Exports rig collapsed earlier this evening, so I guess his dad is out of a job. Not sure what’s going to happen to them now.”


Gloria will wake up the next morning wonder if it was all a dream. Before getting dressed, she’ll pause before her mirror and try to change into Stargirl. A moment later the costume appears.

“I guess it wasn’t a dream.”

After breakfast, Gloria will call Cyrus and see if he’s interested in coming to the party tomorrow night. Mom mentioned getting some more practice in, so Gloria guesses that her afternoon is going to be busy.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

“I’ve got the fashion sense of my mom,” Stargirl explains. “Whatever I come up with will be tasteful. Perhaps you might want to exercise your own fashion sense when it comes to your costume?”

“Perhaps,” Goldstar admits, “but I’d just assume not mess with a classic. After all it is your costume that identifies you. If you keep changing it, then it’ll be harder for people to know who you are.”

“Is that fast?” Stargirl asks, as this sort of thing just goes right over her head.

“It is very fast,” Goldstar answers. “Let me give you a perspective on this. A light-year is exactly what is says, how far light can travel in one year. This is a very long distance as light travels at 186,000 miles per second! You were doing thirty-two times that!”

Goldstar looks around for a moment, trying to get her bearings. Once she does, she points off towards a distant star.

“You see that light there? That’s Alpha Centauri, the closest star to earth. It’s about 4.2 light-years away. That means that light we see right now left the start over four years ago. If you left right now, you could reach Alpha Centauri in about 12 days.”

“Sure, sounds fine to me. I’ll call Cyrus in the morning to see if he’s available. The Infinity Exports rig collapsed earlier this evening, so I guess his dad is out of a job. Not sure what’s going to happen to them now.”

“That’s too bad,” Goldstar notes. “Maybe I can find something for his dad to do. There has to be something he can do in the Starr family of businesses.”


Gwen is up a bit later than Gloria catching herself up on what’s been going on. Next morning, Gwen and Gloria share a late breakfast before departing for the Sea Base. Once more Goldstar will slow down to her daughter’s speed and enjoy the flight. Edgar is expecting them and has the top level of the base on the surface. The pair fly in to the control center. Goldstar checks a out a few things while Gloria looks around.

“This is the Sea Base,” Goldstar explains. “It is the Vigilant base of operations. Great-grandma had it built a long time ago, when no one was around to see. They just let it sit here concealed until we needed it. It has everything we need here. There are even quarters here if you want to have one.”

Goldstar gives Gloria a tour of the place. Before long they encounter Powershift and Sea Guard.

“Hello! Good to see you both. It’s been a long time. This young lady with me is Stargirl, she’s my daughter and has powers similar to mine.”

“Goldstar! You’re a sight for sore eyes!” Sea Guard responds.

“Yeah, Flux is acting a bit crazy,” Powershift adds. “He’s got this weird mage staying at the base with us. Flux seems to trust him, but we’re not so sure.”

“You must mean Eldrich Arcane,” Goldstar responds. “Trust me, the gentleman in question is known to Flux and the rest of the team. How can I put this? The other members of the Vigilant have had a few adventures without you two helping out Tesseract. During these adventures, Eldrich and a few others were members of the team. Frostbite, Blackout, and Tilt-A-Whirl were among these others. So from Flux’s perspective, Eldrich is a teammate and companion, while you’re understandably wondering who he is. Does that make sense? Give him some time, Eldrich will fit in just fine.”

“So he is known to you too?” Sea Guard asks.

“Only by reputation,” Goldstar states. “I’ve not personally met him myself.”


Along the way to the Combat Simulator, Goldstar and Stargirl encounter Eldrich Arcane.

“You must be Eldrich,” Goldstar calls out. “Hello, I’m Goldstar and this is Stargirl, my daughter.”


Afterwards, Goldstar will take Gloria into the Combat Simulator and demonstrate the various offensive powers they possess. First Goldstar will use them and then have Stargirl do the same. Goldstar will explain the advantages and disadvantages to each attack form. Once she’s confident to move on, Goldstar will run a few light drills on Stargirl in the Simulator.

[lavender]

Lavender:

"A costume is an individual preference," Blackout says. "You could go with what you already have, accessorize it up a bit or create something completely different. It's usually better to have just one costume to make it easier for the other heroes and the public to begin to identify who you are instead of having to continuously figure you out each time they see you."

“I think I understand,” Rihalla answers. “So it is necessary to be easily identifiable when I am with you as Blackout, but look different other times. My outfit should be fine when with you as Blackout. Just call me Lavender during those times and Rihalla otherwise. I will defiantly need something else to wear then.”

"I've been thinking about that," Blackout answers. "Why don't you go ahead and take the bed tonight. We can talk about things more tomorrow, but I'm sure we're both exhausted." Without another word Blackout strips down and stretches out on the futon. He's too tired to miss the bed much as anywhere horizontal will be just fine right at the moment.

Lavender is surprised by his answer, but does not question it. “As you wish. Rest well.”

Lavender will enter the bedroom and slip under the sheets. Her mind is racing, wondering how this new chapter of her life will turn out. Eventually her thoughts slow down from fatigue and sleep comes.

[Stargirl]

Stargirl:

“Perhaps,” Goldstar admits, “but I’d just assume not mess with a classic. After all it is your costume that identifies you. If you keep changing it, then it’ll be harder for people to know who you are.”

“I hadn’t considered that,” Stargirl answers. “But no one really knows me yet, so I’ve got some time to experiment.”

“It is very fast,” Goldstar answers. “Let me give you a perspective on this. A light-year is exactly what is says, how far light can travel in one year. This is a very long distance as light travels at 186,000 miles per second! You were doing thirty-two times that!”

Goldstar looks around for a moment, trying to get her bearings. Once she does, she points off towards a distant star.

“You see that light there? That’s Alpha Centauri, the closest star to earth. It’s about 4.2 light-years away. That means that light we see right now left the start over four years ago. If you left right now, you could reach Alpha Centauri in about 12 days.”

“Wow”, Stargirl mouths. Then a thought comes to her. “How long would it take you to get there, mom?”

“That’s too bad,” Goldstar notes. “Maybe I can find something for his dad to do. There has to be something he can do in the Starr family of businesses.”

“That would be wonderful!”

“Hello! Good to see you both. It’s been a long time. This young lady with me is Stargirl, she’s my daughter and has powers similar to mine.”

“Hi!”, Stargirl says when introduced, but the two seem more worked about another man right now. “Eldrich Arcane?” Stargirl chuckles to herself. “What a corny name!”

“You must be Eldrich,” Goldstar calls out. “Hello, I’m Goldstar and this is Stargirl, my daughter.”

“Hello,” Stargirl, says, trying not to laugh and seem rude.

Afterwards, Goldstar will take Gloria into the Combat Simulator and demonstrate the various offensive powers they possess. First Goldstar will use them and then have Stargirl do the same. Goldstar will explain the advantages and disadvantages to each attack form. Once she’s confident to move on, Goldstar will run a few light drills on Stargirl in the Simulator.

Stargirl listens as best she can to what her mom is saying. It’s a lot to digest and some of it is lost to Gloria. Mom says it’s time to run some drills, leaving Gloria to wonder what is going to happen next.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

“I think I understand,” Rihalla answers. “So it is necessary to be easily identifiable when I am with you as Blackout, but look different other times. My outfit should be fine when with you as Blackout. Just call me Lavender during those times and Rihalla otherwise. I will defiantly need something else to wear then.”

"That's right," Blackout sats, then adds, "We'll definitely get something for you to wear as Rihalla tomorrow."

Lavender is surprised by his answer, but does not question it. “As you wish. Rest well.”

Blackout thinks about his decision but knows it's the right one. He is very serious about them being equals, and they could not be that if tried to do anything different tonight. Tomorrow is a whole new day, and he believes it will be a day of brand new experiences for Rihalla. He smiles as he settles in to sleep.

Elsewhere in San Diego, Blackout and Lavender rise to start their day. After a time they go out shopping and sight seeing.

(I’m not sure if Blackout has a Comlink or not. If he does, he’ll receive the invites from Goldstar on it.)

Blackout spends some time finding the right clothing for both him and Rihalla. After most of the morning in her costume, he's able to get her into something that lets her blend in a bit better. He shows her the sights he knows and together they find some new ones, including a nice little resturant where they share an early dinner. It isn't until they return to his apartment later that evening that he finds the comlink.

"I had forgotten I had one of these," Blackout says as he checks the message. After listening to it, he turns to Rihalla, "Interested in attending a little gathering tomorrow?"

If she's agreeable, Blackout will arrange for transportation to the Starr building the next day. It should be interesting to see if they will accept Rihalla or if the reception will be similar to Backlash's.

[Gargoyle]

“Of course you’re going down there,” Rackham responds over the headset. “You think I was just talking for the sake of talking?"

"GENERALLY?!? YEAH!!

"This base needs to be investigated and you’re the most expendable one here, so you get the job.”

"ALRIGHT, I'M GOIN' ALREADY!!"

Getting closer, Gargoyle can see that it is a man lying on the floor. But he’s not just lying there. Some kind of growth is pinning his arms and legs to the deck! Another growth covers his mouth. Terror can clearly be seen in the man’s eyes and his belly is bulging outwards unnaturally!

"OH CRIPES!!!" Gargy yells as rushes forward and attempts to grab a double handful of whatever the stuff that appears to be shoving itself down this guys throat is. Fighting the natural instinct to rip it out fast Gargoyle will instead pull firmly but gently, slowing bringing his strength to bear against the growth so as not to rip this guys entrails out through his mouth.

___________________________________
Sorry Mad, I had posted a response to the previous post from work over a week ago and was patiently waiting for an update. If Dave hadn't said something to me I'd still be oblivious to the fact that it obviously didn't go through.

[Tesla]

Tesla:

The next time Tesla checks her Comlink, Goldstar’s message is there about the invitations.

Tesla will plan to attend. After all the time she intends to spend working on her powers and overall training, it will be a nice diversion.

Her sister Kelly is happy to see her, of course. Kelly is upbeat, in spite of her condition. She’ll ask Krystie about what’s new, what’s going on, who she’s dating and all those things that sisters share.

The conversation ultimately turns to the topic of men, but that's not surprising. To this Tesla will merely say, "No, no one." After getting 'that look' she presists, "I'm not saying there isn't anyone with potential, just with work and all, there hasn't been time." She thinks of her fellow teammates, one in particular, but with everything that's happened and all the crazy realities that may or may not have even been real, she can't be certain that any blossoming interest was real either.

The best thing Tesla can do is turn the question around, "So? What about you?"

"Yeah, there's somebody," Kelly reveals, quickly ammending, "Well, hopefully somebody anyway."

"Really, who?" Tesla asks with interest.

"My physical therapist," Kelly says.

"Really? Wow," Tesla replies. "So who approached who?"

"Oh, I don't even know what he thinks of me," Kelly says, her mood souring a bit.

"Well girl, you need to tell him," Tesla says.

"I'm not all into the make the first move thing, especially considering..." Kelly says with a bit of sadness as she looks at herself.

"Well maybe bring it up casually. Does he talk about anyone else, or have any taletell signs like a wedding band or something?" Tesla asks.

"No, nothing I can tell," Kelly responds. "He seems single."

"Well, if nothing else then just go for it. Grab him by the shirt collar and lay one on him," Tesla smirks.

"Yeah because I'm sure that's how you let all the boys know you like them," Kelly says.

"Yeah, as if," Tesla says and the two of them break into laughter.

The conversation stays much about the same. Dinner is chinese food and an old black and white movie - some love story set with World War 2 as the backdrop. They talk some more at it's quite late before Tesla leaves, confident that her sister is doing well and in good spirits. She makes promises to be back again soon and makes her way back to the Sea Base.

[GM Mad]

Small Updates:

Roll Call: Eldrich, Powershift & Sea Guard

Out at the Sea Base, Eldrich is meets Powershift and Sea Guard. Eldrich brings up the subject of the jewel in Powershift’s chest.

"Might I inquire as to the nature of that jewel you posses? It has a taint of evil about it. Are you afflicted by this? I might be able to assist you in its examination and possible removal."

“It is called the Jewel of Krin,” Powershift answers, his hand rise up as if to protect the gem. Reputedly it houses the essence of a demoness. I can draw power from it, but not enough that it overwhelms me. You’re assistance is not required.”

Goldstar shows up the next morning and furthers talks to Sea Guard and Powershift about the new arrival. She eases some of their concerns, but both will be cautions around Eldrich.


Roll Call: Gargoyle

Down in the underground portion of the Infinity Exports complex, Gargoyle has made a grisly discovery. He’s found a man lying on the floor, his limbs and mouth covered by some kind of growth. His belly bulges unnaturally.

"OH CRIPES!!!" Gargy yells as rushes forward and attempts to grab a double handful of whatever the stuff that appears to be shoving itself down this guy’s throat is. Fighting the natural instinct to rip it out fast Gargoyle will instead pull firmly but gently, slowing bringing his strength to bear against the growth so as not to rip this guys entrails out through his mouth.

The growth covering the man’s mouth is slimy and alive. Once its grabbed, the growth is easily pulled off. It’s actually just covering the man’s mouth, there’s nothing going down his throat.

“Get it out of me!” The man shouts once he is able to speak.

“Find out who he is and what happened to him,” Rackham orders through the headset.

At the moment, there is a violent convulsion in the man’s chest, as if something inside is trying to get out. The man screams in agony and his belly violently explodes, showering the immediate area with blood and gore. His screams are silenced permanently.

Something moves within what remains of the man’s belly. It’s a large, wormlike creature. It’s about 18 inches long and would be all white if not for the blood covering it. There’s a stinger-like growth at the rear of the creature. The head is ends with six tentacle-like growths. Centered between the tentacles is a single sickly yellow eye.

“What the hell is that!” Rackham shouts over the headset. “Capture it!”

The monstrosity eyes Gargoyle with its one eye, its tail flickering back and forth. Gargoyle gets the impression that the beast would be licking his lips in anticipation, provided it actually had lips.

Now what?

[lavender]

Lavender:

"That's right," Blackout says, and then adds, "We'll definitely get something for you to wear as Rihalla tomorrow."

“I can make the appearance even more different,” Rihalla announces. She closes her eyes and concentrates for a few moments. Then her hair begins to move, but instead of moving about like before, it actually grows shorter! Once it stops moving, Rihalla has shoulder length hair.

“My former handler like girls with long hair,” Rihalla sheepishly states. “But this should make me look different from Lavender. I assume that you don’t want me to call you Blackout all the time. What do you want me to call you?”


When they get ready to leave, Rihalla is a bit confused as to why he is using a walking stick. “I can understand the sun glasses, but why a walking stick?”

Blackout explains that such a thing is normal for a blind man to use.

“Then perhaps I can be some sort of assistant?” Rihalla asks. “A caretaker?”

Blackout spends some time finding the right clothing for both him and Rihalla. After most of the morning in her costume, he's able to get her into something that lets her blend in a bit better. He shows her the sights he knows and together they find some new ones, including a nice little restaurant where they share an early dinner. It isn't until they return to his apartment later that evening that he finds the comlink.

Rihalla enjoys trying out clothes and will purchase as much as Blackout will allow her. She’ll get under garments and several sets of everyday clothing. She’ll change into a halter-top, shorts and sandals for the rest of the day, storing her old clothes into one of the bags. Ri will also pick up a pair of sunglasses.

"I had forgotten I had one of these," Blackout says as he checks the message. After listening to it, he turns to Rihalla, "Interested in attending a little gathering tomorrow?"

“What is it?” Rihalla curiously asks. “I’m game if you want to go.”

Rihalla is surprised just how little Blackout is using her teleportation powers, but doesn’t ask the question and just goes with the flow.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

“Wow”, Stargirl mouths. Then a thought comes to her. “How long would it take you to get there, mom?”

“Well, I’m not one to brag,” Goldstar says in response to the question. But after being urged by Gloria, “You have to remember that I’m older and more powerful. I’d estimate that I could make that trip in about 10 minutes.”

Goldstar will run Stargirl through some exercise until she seems tired. Right now, she just wants Gloria to be aware of the type of attacks she has and which ones to use in which situation.

Afterwards, they’ll return home and get ready for tomorrow’s party.

[Backlash]

Backlash


Waking up to purring of his cat, Lash rubs his eyes to the early sun. Seeing the flashing beacon of his comlink he checks it out seems there is a picnic or something for the team.

“Sounds like fun, be good to relax with the team.” He says as he heads to the shower and gets his work out clothes on. Hoping on his Harley and going down to the beach gyms, Backlash goes through his motions of bench press, squats, inclines and many other exercises. Gradually increasing the weight he does the same for about an hour. Toweling off his face he looks around to the people around him in there bathing suits heading to the beach. Silently he thinks to himself that this is what its worth, so people can live their lives freely and oblivious.

Hoping back on his Harley, backlash heads back home, his cat darting between his feet, he feeds it some tuna and gets cleaned up and changed in a jeans, and white button down shirt. Picking up his shades he puts them on and heads out to the picnic.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite

“Something will come up,” Cyrus’ dad answers, but it’s clear from his face that he’s not sure just what.

“As you always tell me, ‘Things always happen for a reason.” He says with a smart-alecky smirk, “Besides, I much rather have you here, then not at all. I’ll help out where I can.” Cyrus says with a serious look.

She tells Cyrus that her mom is back in town and that they’re having a little gathering tomorrow afternoon and that he’s invited.

“That’s cool, When did she get in?” he asks curiously as he flips through the channels of his television set. “I’ll be there, What time?” he asks in return as he finds a Kings game on TV.

Cyrus while help around the house for a little while doing his chores, as well as things not asked of him. Later on, Cyrus goes out and sits on the front steps for a time just looking up at the sky and stars.

On Sunday, Cyrus will grab his hockey gear and go to the ice rink, it always worked to get things off his mind. Afterward he will make his way to the picnic.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

“I can make the appearance even more different,” Rihalla announces. She closes her eyes and concentrates for a few moments. Then her hair begins to move, but instead of moving about like before, it actually grows shorter! Once it stops moving, Rihalla has shoulder length hair.

“My former handler like girls with long hair,” Rihalla sheepishly states. “But this should make me look different from Lavender. I assume that you don’t want me to call you Blackout all the time. What do you want me to call you?”

"There's nothing wrong with long hair," Blackout says, "but that will definitely help conceal your super hero identity. Oh, and yes, calling me Blackout in public would cause quite a few stares," he adds. "My name is Dylan."

When they get ready to leave, Rihalla is a bit confused as to why he is using a walking stick. “I can understand the sun glasses, but why a walking stick?”

Blackout explains that such a thing is normal for a blind man to use.

“Then perhaps I can be some sort of assistant?” Rihalla asks. “A caretaker?”

"It's definitely better to act the part completely," Blackout says, explaining the cane. "Plus there's nothing wrong with going out with some tricks up one's sleeve." He shows her the hidden compartment that houses his throwing line. While he couldn't throw the cane as well as his rod, he could still use it in a pinch too.

"A caretaker would be perfectly normal and a good cover for you," Blackout agrees. "It would also help explain you being at the apartment so much when we enter and leave like 'normal folks'."

Rihalla enjoys trying out clothes and will purchase as much as Blackout will allow her. She’ll get under garments and several sets of everyday clothing. She’ll change into a halter-top, shorts and sandals for the rest of the day, storing her old clothes into one of the bags. Ri will also pick up a pair of sunglasses.

Blackout will sit and wait patiently for as long as she wishes to go shopping. He enjoys being able to be 'normal' and not being alone. He will have her describe all the outfits she likes so that he is as involved as he possibly can be.

“What is it?” Rihalla curiously asks. “I’m game if you want to go.”

"This?" Blackout asks, holding up the comlink, "it was given to me by those other heroes I was involved with. While I'm not part of their team officially it was important that we kept in touch with everything going on since I was helping out. I had forgotten about it but apparently they hadn't and sent me an invite to their little social gathering."

Thinking it over, he wonders just how well a secret identity get together will go over. "I'm guessing we're not all showing up in costume, but it's going to be wierd being together with people who know me as Blackout and will see me for the real person. Up until now, you're the only one who knows me outside of the mask."

[Bruce]

Eldrich Arcane

Eldrich Arcane

“It is called the Jewel of Krin,” Powershift answers, his hand rise up as if to protect the gem. Reputedly it houses the essence of a demoness. I can draw power from it, but not enough that it overwhelms me. You’re assistance is not required.”

Eldrich sees that he has given offense but is not sure just how.

"I see. That is risky. I commend you on your courage. I would not care to balance such a burden upon myself."

"Might I ask where mages congregate on this world? I am in need of advisement and further education on such matters."

Upon being told there is no such place Eldrich wonders if that much of the Black Magus' information was true.

If indeed magic is rare here then I am more of a stranger than I had first surmised.

Taking his leave of the two men Eldrich wanders about the base marveling at the workmanship not only of the base but the sight of the City of Wonders as well.

Along the way to the Combat Simulator, Goldstar and Stargirl encounter Eldrich Arcane.

“You must be Eldrich,” Goldstar calls out. “Hello, I’m Goldstar and this is Stargirl, my daughter.”

“Hello,” Stargirl, says, trying not to laugh and seem rude.

"I greet you Golden Ones. Your domicile is most remarkable. I feel safe in saying there is nothing to match it within my home realm."

"Is it true that magic is rarely used here? I have not seen much sign of it anywhere but here and that lightly. I ask because I seek those who might instruct me further in it's use in this realm."

The young one is amused by me or by something about me. Again, I do not see the jest.
Still, I will take amusement over hostility any time.

[Bruce]

Flux

At 0600 hours the internal clock in Dave's body punts him into a near waking state.

The final step to true alertness must still be initiated by willpower-and the coffeemaker.

One eye opens blearily. It flicks a glance to the time display. It closes.

One breath is taken in. The scent of brewing coffee is detected. One eye reopens.
Random synaptic firings occur in the hindpart of Dave's brain. This is sufficient to start coherent thought.

Coffee . . . must have . . . coffee . . .

The second eye opens and they blink in tandem at the new day.

Once again Maxwellhouse brand raises the dead. What did people do before coffee? Pray to the gods?

Dave clambers stiffly out of bed, popping knees and moving gingerly to loosen up-and get that coffee.

The kitchen is filled with the aroma of life and as the first swallows are ingested full awarness comes to Dave.

It's the 5th of July. The start of it all so long ago. And I still remember everything. And everyone. How odd. Best keep it to myself. No need to confuse anyone else. Now to breakfast making then some early morning near-jogging exercise. Then we head over to Sam's place see everybody and just relax, soak up the normal. Yeah, that's a plan.

Dave eats well and fully before leaving the table. Lunch is a long way off. Washing up and dressing Dave sees the team comlink has a non-priority message on it.

“Hi Flux, this is Goldstar. I got back into town late last night. Anyway, Gloria and I are going to have a little informal get together late tomorrow afternoon at our penthouse at the Starr Building. A simple cook out with friends and family. Let me know if you can make it. Bring a date if you want.”

“Also, I’ll be holding a meeting Monday afternoon at the Sea Base. We’ve got a lot to discuss. See you later.”

Goldstar! Well, well. Hmm. Might manage it after the family visit. A date she says! Yeah, right. I know who for that?

Dave hits the pavement, fast walking a route designed to maximize effort and allow as much sightseeing as possible at the same time.

On his return to the apartment he changes clothes and heads out again to Sam's place. On the way out he sees his new neighbor, the platinum blond coming the other way.

Well now, that brightens up my day, she um hold on I know her! She was one of the victims of Brother Basilisk!

Seeing the woman reminds Dave of another matter: the possibility of Chimera being part of the medical staff in the clinic.

A worry for another time. Right now it's family time. And I intend to enjoy it.


BTW I vote yes for online character sheets.

[Stargirl]

Stargirl:

“Well, I’m not one to brag,” Goldstar says in response to the question. But after being urged by Gloria, “You have to remember that I’m older and more powerful. I’d estimate that I could make that trip in about 10 minutes.”

“Sheesh!” Is Gloria’s comment on that subject!


Next morning, Gloria calls Cyrus about picnic.

“That’s cool, when did she get in?” he asks curiously as he flips through the channels of his television set. “I’ll be there, what time?” he asks in return as he finds a Kings game on TV.

“Late last night,” Gloria answers. “I was going through Edgar’s files when she showed up. Anyway, she’s helping me adapt to my new abilities. We even flew to the moon and back last night!”

“Oh, I’d saw about five or so would be fine. We’re going out to the Sea Base to get some more practice. Should be lots of food, so come hungry!”


Stargirl will let mom talk to this Eldrich fellow, unless she’s asked something directly. She’s not quite sure what to make of the man.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

“Hello,” Stargirl, says, trying not to laugh and seem rude.

“Behave,” Goldstar whispers to her mischievous daughter.

"I greet you Golden Ones. Your domicile is most remarkable. I feel safe in saying there is nothing to match it within my home realm."

“Thank you, Eldrich. It took a long time getting the base up and running. From what little that I’ve heard, there is very little in this dimension that would resemble anything from your home.”

"Is it true that magic is rarely used here? I have not seen much sign of it anywhere but here and that lightly. I ask because I seek those who might instruct me further in it's use in this realm."

“Yes, magic is very rare in this dimension. I am told that the fundamental force that allows magic to function in an individual occurs in only 1 out of something like 50 million people. Those who possess other super powers are almost a thousand times more common.”

“I personally don’t know of any magical groups or organizations. In fact, most magic users that I’ve come across were villains like Devilspawn. I could contact Dr. Wraith of the Protectors. He’s probably the closest friendly mage to us.”


Since it seems that Tesla lives at the Sea Base, Goldstar will make certain to check up on her and introduce her to Stargirl. Assuming that she’s present on the day we are there, as she might be out visiting her sister at that time.

[lavender]

Lavender:

"There's nothing wrong with long hair," Blackout says, "but that will definitely help conceal your super hero identity. Oh, and yes, calling me Blackout in public would cause quite a few stares," he adds. "My name is Dylan."

Lavender suddenly stops, fearful as if she did something wrong when it came to changing the length of her hair. “If you prefer it long, I can make it longer again. Which way would you like it?”

“Dylan. That’s a nice name.”

"It's definitely better to act the part completely," Blackout says, explaining the cane. "Plus there's nothing wrong with going out with some tricks up one's sleeve." He shows her the hidden compartment that houses his throwing line. While he couldn't throw the cane as well as his rod, he could still use it in a pinch too.

“I see,” Lavender, says as she sees what is hidden inside the cane.

"A caretaker would be perfectly normal and a good cover for you," Blackout agrees. "It would also help explain you being at the apartment so much when we enter and leave like 'normal folks'."

“I will have to learn more about being a caretaker to act properly,” Lavender notes. “I will be a good caretaker.”

Blackout will sit and wait patiently for as long as she wishes to go shopping. He enjoys being able to be 'normal' and not being alone. He will have her describe all the outfits she likes so that he is as involved as he possibly can be.

Forgetting that Dylan can’t actually see the clothing she’s picking up, Rihalla does her best to describe them. She’ll pick up a sundress while she’s at it and some tops and shorts. Regular clothing for the most part. Rihalla makes a mental note to do more describing of mundane things. Dylan might be able to sense what he cannot see, but he does not see colors or designs.

"This?" Blackout asks, holding up the comlink, "it was given to me by those other heroes I was involved with. While I'm not part of their team officially it was important that we kept in touch with everything going on since I was helping out. I had forgotten about it but apparently they hadn't and sent me an invite to their little social gathering."

“That’s peculiar,” Rihalla notes. “I mean if you’re not part of their group, why invite you to a social gathering?”

Thinking it over, he wonders just how well a secret identity get together will go over. "I'm guessing we're not all showing up in costume, but it's going to be weird being together with people who know me as Blackout and will see me for the real person. Up until now, you're the only one who knows me outside of the mask."

“If there is any trouble, I can get us out of there fast,” Rihalla vows.


As they chat during the day, Rihalla will let a few more things about her out. She’s never been sick a day in her live and she was engineered to rapidly heal wounds. Lastly, she is incapable of having children as she doesn’t have the necessary internal organs to do that.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

Lavender suddenly stops, fearful as if she did something wrong when it came to changing the length of her hair. “If you prefer it long, I can make it longer again. Which way would you like it?”

"I think having it short will be good when you're acting as my caregiver out in public," Blackout reassures her. "The rest of the time wearing it long will be just fine."

“That’s peculiar,” Rihalla notes. “I mean if you’re not part of their group, why invite you to a social gathering?”

"It is a little odd," Blackout agrees, "but they seem like decent people and a good team. They may be trying to recruit me but I'm not going to jump to speculation until it's brought up. It might merely be a 'getting to know our neighbors' type of event since I'm guessing everyone there will be involved with their team in one fashion or another."

“If there is any trouble, I can get us out of there fast,” Rihalla vows.

"I'm hoping it doesn't come to that, but I know you'll get us away safely," Blackout says.

As they chat during the day, Rihalla will let a few more things about her out. She’s never been sick a day in her live and she was engineered to rapidly heal wounds. Lastly, she is incapable of having children as she doesn’t have the necessary internal organs to do that.

"It's been a while since I've been ill," Blackout says, "but I can't say I've never been sick. That's also good to know you can heal quickly. Important to remember should we get into a battle."

Blackout doesn't say anything about her being unable to give birth. It makes sense, given her origin, but it's kind of an awkward subject. Rihalla probably doesn't see it that way, and it really was the furthest thing from his mind right then anyway.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed