Crucible #31 - "Starry, Starry Knight"

[GM Mad]

Crucible #31 - "Starry, Starry Knight"


Roll Call: Eldrich, Frostbite, Serena, White Crane, & Polaris


With their captives in tow, the members of the Vigilant and the Young Champions begin the journey back to the dock area and the waiting transport pad.

As Frosty lifts the frozen Devils spawn over his shoulder he hears Polaris speak, "I guess that leaves the living cadaver for me. Thanks a lot guys."

"Sorry bud, next time we'll draw straws?"

"Hey, no problem! I'd have gone for the hot babe too!", Polaris adds with a grin.

*"Edgar, Ask the medical team if they can put these supers to sleep for a while."*

"That is affirmative, sir. That have sedatives that should keep them sleeping for several hours. We will be expecting your arrival."


The trip back to the transport pad passes without incident. Stepping back on to the pad with your charges, the group is taken across the bay and to the landing area at Castle Vigilant. Edgar is present, along with Metalla and Nurse Change. Sedatives are quickly given to the Aviator, Devilspawn, and the Denier. They are then taken inside for safe keeping. Metalla easily carries Denier and Aviator by herself.

"There have been several arrivals to examination since your departure. The Sanctuary Staff is doing the best they can given the circumstances", Edgar explains.

Walking through the area where the new arrivals are being examined or are waiting to be examined you can see the following unusual sights.

Sapphire is on guard duty and speaking to a large formless blob of eyestalks and tentacles. The thing is shivering as if cold. (Those who encountered the blob will recognize it as Yu, the good demon from the saucer-wreckage site.)

The Deacon is trying to calm down a young woman who is on the verge of hysteria. She looks perfectly normal, that is until you see that she has large multi-celled insect-like eyes!

Rose, Lily's superpowered daughter is flying happily overhead with a companion. It is an Asian boy who is only ten inches tall!


You're back at the Castle. Now what?

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Tesla, Lily, and Archangel

Elsewhere, a trio of heroes find themselves on what appears to be a soundstage simulation of Downtown San Diego. Nearby, a frantic man repeatedly says that none of this is real. Lily, shape shifted into the form of a old Hispanic woman attempts to talk reasonably to him and keep pace.

Overhead, Archangel draws his short sword and swoops in. Tesla follows closely behind him. At the last moment, the Hispanic woman cries out, "No! That's not the answer, Archangel! No one is being hurt; he just needs to work through his fear."

Surprised by this, Archangel veers off.


Now what?


Roll Call: Blackout, Flux, Nemesis, Quasar, and Gladiator


Nemesis, bearing Blackout, and Flux fly back toward the PRIMUS base they just departed accompanied by Quasar, the winged leader of the Protectors. Off in the distance, a pair of winged woman also flying towards the base were spotted. The pair fly behind the building and out of the arriving heroes sight.

Nemesis leads the way back to the area near the open entrance to the buildings basement level. Psi-Lad is standing a ways off having regained consciousness.

The main thing that attracts everyone's attention is a small group of PRIMUS Operatives conversing with Gladiator. In the hands of the Instructor of the Young Champions is the unconscious form of Silver Avenger Rackham. It does appear, on first glance, that the situation is a peaceful one.

Also noted is the two winged women spotted earlier. They don't appear to have been noticed by the others. While Harpy keeps watch, Chimera is speaking to a groggy Electra.

A few moments later, a man in what appears to be medieval armor, but with a high tech styling to it materializes out of thin air. The armor is black and silver and color and the black portions had what appeared to be a star field pattern on it. This new arrival appeared down in the portion of the basement where Goldstar located Major Star. He looks around, as if searching for something.


And again, now what?

[Bruce]

Flux

"Well, I see them now, and still don't know who they are," says Flux. "But I don't like them talking only to Electra instead of some PRIMUS people first. Blackout, you and I will head over there peacefully, to remind Electra she's in federal custody and see what the reaction is from the other two."

Looks like Gladiator's standing is still good with PRIMUS. Not locked up or being shot at. Hope they can sort out SA Rackham's problem. They're going to need a leader with a clear head now.

A few moments later, a man in what appears to be medieval armor, but with a high tech styling to it materializes out of thin air. This new arrival appeared down in the portion of the basement where Goldstar located Major Star. He looks around, as if searching for something.

Now who?? This place is drawing them in like a free barbecue

[Bruce]

Eldrich Arcane

Eldrich Steps his way back to the platform transport, being carefull to stay well away from the magic absorbing corpse. As he steps ( normally ) onto the platform, he is careful to invoke no items or spells.

This seems to work as the dead thing remains quiescent throughout the trip.

Castle Vigilant is swarming with activity and there is plenty to catch the eye of the lost mage. After a moment of indecision Eldrich will move toward the giant blue woman and blob of eyestalks, confident that they will not catch him out in any social errors!

[Frostbite]

Frostbite



Frosty steps onto the platform with the frigid form of Devilspawn. He is relieved to feel the soft ocean breeze on his face as the are moved swiftly to the castle.
Upon Arrival we had off the trio and the medical staff soon work their magic,applying sedatives to them. he cant help but ask, "Is there any possiblity of them waking up sooner than expected?"

Soon after Edgar greets them and speaks of the new arrivals.

"There have been several arrivals to examination since your departure. The Sanctuary Staff is doing the best they can given the circumstances", Edgar explains.

" Is there anything that they require of us?" he asks as he walks through the examinations. His eyes linder on a women being consulted by Deacon. They will pay for all of this he promises to himself.

As they soon near yu and Sapphire he asks Edgar about thier conversation, "I realize it was over looked but could you concievably build holding cells for supers?"

Excusing himself from Edgar he approaches Sapphire,Yu and Edrich. "Hey, How is everything here?" he asks the purple skinned women.

"Yu, I'm glad to see you well. I was wondering If you had a moment?" he will wait for a reply than ask."The other day you spoke of your draining powers and the possiblity of draining ones powers perminently if needed. I was wondering if You could explain how this would work."
"We just brought in three supers, unfortunitly are holding cells are less than adeqaute for holding them for to long so they were sedated. Now im not doubting the skills of the medical team but If they awoke it would put many innocents as well as the medical team in harms way. Would you be willing to drain them so if they awoke they would be easier to handle?"

[Menagerie]

Lily:

Responding to her outburst, Archangel backs off. It is disturbing to Lily that the youngster's first recourse in any situation seems to be to hit someone. Perhaps she needs to have a talk with this Gladiator who mentors the team.

Turning back to the strange man, Lily speaks to him in a calm, soothing voice. "It's alright, sir. Please, just relax. We can work this out and get to the bottom of whatever is going on. We just need to approach it calmly. I know some doctors and scientists who may be able to help, if you're willing to talk to them.

"Would that be alright with you?"

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Tesla was moving in behind Archangel to assist in rendering the man who might be throwing these powerful illusions unconscious, but a woman intercepts Archangel and so Tesla holds her advance as well. Tesla definitely recognizes it to be Lily, and so will land and move over to the man as non-threatening as her appearance allows her to be.

"We'll try it your way," Tesla tells Lily and then moves over to see if she can assist in convincing the man to calm down and gain some measure of control. If he appears to aggitated by additional people gathering around him, Tesla will back off and let Lily try it one-on-one. "I just hope that if we're stuck here that this set has a catering crew."

[Blackout]

Blackout:

"Well, I see them now, and still don't know who they are," says Flux. "But I don't like them talking only to Electra instead of some PRIMUS people first. Blackout, you and I will head over there peacefully, to remind Electra she's in federal custody and see what the reaction is from the other two."

Blackout smiles as Flux chooses the word "remind" in regards to Electra's current state. He just nods in agreement and walks over with Flux - his hand resting peacefully on the hip sling where his rod sits.

Blackout notices someone else materializes out of thin air. He already has a task to contend with, but will keep tabs on the new arrival in case we need to divert our actions should the new arrival become hostile.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Roll Call: Blackout, Flux, Nemesis, Gladiator, Psi-Lad, and Quasar

There's a lot going on back at what remains of PRIMUS Headquarters. Gladiator has emerged from the basement with the inert form of Silver Avenger Rackham. A pair of winged women have arrived and seem more interested in the semi-conscious Electra than anyone else. A mysterious man in armor has appeared on the spot where Major Star and Goldstar were before they flew off and disappeared.

Nemesis lands bearing Blackout. She sets the man down and rubs here arms. "Wow", the blonde haired woman remarks. "I'm not used to doing that much carrying." Excusing herself, Nemesis goes to check up on Psi-Lad who has regained consciousness since being mind controlled earlier.

On their way towards Electra, Flux and Blackout can't help put pick up the conversation between Gladiator and the PRIMUS Agents.

"... Thus I was forced to neutralize him," Gladiator concludes. "What do you wish for me to do with him?"

One of the agents, a man with brown hair in his thirties, steps forward his weapon lowered. "I'm Corporal Livingston", he states. "As near as I can tell, I'm the ranking officer and now in command with Major Star and Silver Avenger Rackham unavailable or incapacitated. We witnessed Rackham's questionable behavior earlier. Thank you for bringing him under control again."

"Unfortunately, we don't have anyway to contain him or any of the escaped prisoners at the present time. The PRIMUS Base is too damaged to safely use and regular jails would never hold him. However, there is another option. The San Diego division of ADT is the one that designs and tests Stronghold cell designs. They should have several cells available to use in a pinch. I'll contact the appropriate parties to secure their usage."

(Editor's Note: ADT stands for Advance Design Technology. A high tech company in this world.)


Approaching Electra and Chimera, Flux reminds them that Electra was in PRIMUS Custody.

"That's not important right now," Chimera states as she eyes the approaching men. "Electra's powers are out of control and are causing her considerable pain. That's why she's been lashing out those around her. She needs help, not a jail cell. Help that I can give her. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a job to do and a patient to care for."


The man in the starry armor down in the basement appears to be staring at his right wrist as if checking the time on a wrist watch. Once seemingly satisfied, he emerges from the basement flying upwards and approaches the others in a non-threatening manner.

"Hi, there. I'm Starguard. I'm picking up some very unusual energy readings around here. Can someone tell me what happened here?"

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Frostbite, Eldrich, Serena, White Crane, Sapphire, Yu, and Polaris

This group has returned to the castle bearing several supervillains. The villains are sedated for the time being. Several new arrivals have shown up to be examined by the Sanctuary Staff.

"Is there any possibility of them waking up sooner than expected?"

"Its always possible", Nurse Chang will say. "Hard to say how effective the sedatives will be when dealing with supers."

After leaving Nurse Chang, Frostbite speaks with Edgar.

"Is there anything that they require of us?"

"Everything seems to be under control here at the moment, sir."

"I realize it was over looked but could you conceivably build holding cells for supers?"

"Conceivably, yes sir", Edgar will say. "However, I was what you would consider to be 'wounded' by my arrival here and subsequent split with the Warlord. Constructing new chambers takes considerable effort on my part. With the number of charges in me at the moment and with my focus divided amongst multiple avatars, I am unable to fully concentrate on such a task. Furthermore the more complex the construction, the longer it will take me to complete."


After leaving Edgar, Frostbite joins Eldrich in chatting with Sapphire and Yu.

"Hey, how is everything here?" he asks the purple skinned women.

"Everything is secure", Sapphire reports. "I have been conversing with this most interesting creature. We were discussing his returning to Sanctuary with his. Yu's ability to neutralize the powers of others would be a terrific boon to Sanctuary security."

"Yu, I'm glad to see you well. I was wondering If you had a moment?" he will wait for a reply than ask. "The other day you spoke of your draining powers and the possibility of draining ones powers permanently if needed. I was wondering if You could explain how this would work."

Yu shivers and is very nervous around all these people. He moves one of his numerous eyestalks so that it looks at Frostbite.

"Yu take away powers with touch. Temporary or permanent. Yu neutralize hostiles who threaten friends! Yu help!"

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Tesla, Lily, & Archangel


The trio of supers find themselves on what appears to be a soundstage representation of San Diego. This giant movie-studio like construction seems to be the creation of a man who is frantic and seems to be aware that it is not real.

Lily tries to reason with the man, but he concludes that she too is not real and among those out to get them. He turns and begins to run away.

Archangel ceases this opening and flies in with the idea of rendering the man unconscious but is called off by Lily at the last moment. She wants to reason with the man first.

However, the man has kept right on running away from her, Tesla, and Archangel. Lily chases after the man, but he doesn't pay any attention to her at all.

"I would have had him", Archangel complains. "Its blatantly obvious that he's not going to listen to anyone or accept that he's creating all of this. Our only logical course of action is to knock him out and hope that it undoes this mass illusion. The longer this takes, the greater the chance that someone is going to get hurt. So, do you still want to reason with that madman or bring the curtain down on this production?"

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Sorry about the delays. In the process of being hit by several big projects with time limits on them. Hopefully they'll be a bit more spread out and not have such tight deadlines in the weeks and months to come. I've incorporated my character responses into the posts to save time.

XP's:

Been meaning to post these but kept forgetting. I figured them out a few posts back for some of the players to use and spend, but never posted them for everyone. Here's where they stood through post #28.

Blackout - 10
Eldrich - 9
Flux - 12
Frostbite - 0 (Spent)
Goldstar - 8
Lily Pak - 17
Serena - 9
Tesla - 4

NPC's:

Gladiator - 2
Nemesis - 4
Archangel - 2
Psi-Lad - 2
White Crane - 2
Sapphire - 2

Now what?

[Bruce]

Flux

"That's not important right now," Chimera states as she eyes the approaching men. "Electra's powers are out of control and are causing her considerable pain. That's why she's been lashing out those around her. She needs help, not a jail cell. Help that I can give her. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a job to do and a patient to care for"

Do what you can for her, Chimera, but don't leave here with her without talking to the PRIMUS officers first. That would make your patient a fugitive from federal custody. Not much help to her or you either. If you're a medical doctor please consider helping out the injured here as well. There are plenty of people suffering pain."

"Hi, there. I'm Starguard. I'm picking up some very unusual energy readings around here. Can someone tell me what happened here?"

"Hello Starguard. I'm Flux, the man next to me is Blackout. We're part of the Vigilant. Near as we can tell, Major Star suffered an overload of his radiation powers. One of our own members, Goldstar, took him off the planet before he lost control again and that's the last we've seen of either of them. What energy are you reading? Can you track it? We would really like to find them both."

[Bruce]

Eldrich Arcane

Eldrich listens to Yu and Saphire discussing Yu's employment at Sanctuary. He is further amazed to learn that Yu can take the 'powers' of these unique peoples permanently or temporarily!

"Yu take away powers with touch. Temporary or permanent. Yu neutralize hostiles who threaten friends! Yu help!"

That is quite amazing. I wonder if it is selective or inclusive? Perhaps Yu can remove my curse that way!

"Does this work upon demons as well? How about magic spells?"

Eldrich is very curious to hear this answer....

[Menagerie]

Lily:

She looks at Archangel. "Violence. That's your only answer, isn't it? He hasn't harmed a single person, and all you can think of is to beat him up. I think you have a long way to go to understand the concept of hero."

Lily shifts into the form of a golden, asian-style dragon of moderate size. Boosting her strength and speed somewhat as well, she flies after the man. Once she catches up to him, she will scoop him up and fly up into the air. After gaining sufficient altitude, she will fly out toward the island. The medical team from Sanctuary should know what to do with him...
_________________________________________________________
Buy as much Flight as seems reasonable, a couple levels of Growth, and split the rest between STR and speed.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite


Frosty watches as the Doctors work their magic which raises a concern in his head. Could they wake up early and exactly how strong are these sedatives? He quickly asks Doctor Chang of his concerns and she replies in turn.


"Its always possible", Nurse Chang will say. "Hard to say how effective the sedatives will be when dealing with supers."

Frosty will rub his icy chin thinking about possible ways to counter act this slight problem due to their lack of holding cells...

cells----

"Conceivably, yes sir", Edgar will say. "However, I was what you would consider to be 'wounded' by my arrival here and subsequent split with the Warlord. Constructing new chambers takes considerable effort on my part. With the number of charges in me at the moment and with my focus divided amongst multiple avatars, I am unable to fully concentrate on such a task. Furthermore the more complex the construction, the longer it will take me to complete."

"I understand Edgar, Please take your time. I apologize if we are asking a lot of you but the need is great and in time I will help repay your kindness to us." he will say with a smile. " If there is anything that I might be able to help you with please let me know. And Please don't call me sir Edgar, Im your friend not your master. After all we are equals partners right?"

Yu &Sapphire----

"Everything is secure", Sapphire reports. "I have been conversing with this most interesting creature. We were discussing his returning to Sanctuary with his. Yu's ability to neutralize the powers of others would be a terrific boon to Sanctuary security."
" He certainly is interesting to say the least. When are you "inviting" him back to Sanctuary? This is true Sapphire, his skills would be a welcome to any establishment. But I'm glad he is going there... He will be in good hands."

" Yu if you are willing to help please come with me. I want you to meet Dr. Chang if you haven't already. I would like to make sure it is okay for you to help out. Though I'm sure it should be fine."

He will lead Yu toward Dr Chang and ask her if Yu can do his Touch drain on the trio. Rendering them harmless, He hopes....

[Blackout]

Blackout:

Blackout remains alert while Flux talks with the woman Chimera in case things to remain peaceful. She seems to want to help and Blackout can only hope that she is truthful in her intentions.

Moving to meet Starguard, Blackout will nod to the man when introductions are made. He is interested in what answers will be given to Flux's questions and hopefully this Starguard individual will have them to give.

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Tesla stays out of the Lily and Archangel confrontation. She has seen Lily try not to resort to combat before, and hopes the woman's optimism isn't her downfall someday. As she watches Lily change into the form of a dragon, she hopes that doesn't further drive this man's fragile psyche over the limit and we have to deal with more illusions or worse.

If it turns out that everything seems alright, Tesla will concentrate and propel herself into the air once more to follow Lily. If things take a turn for the worse then she stands ready to respond as needed.

[GM Mad]

Post Still Continued...

Interlude 1: Recently...

Looking down, Goldstar could see a glowing figure in the basement of the PRIMUS base. It lay at the bottom of the blast that took out the entire corner of the building.

"Whatever it is, I've got to get it out of here before it goes kabluey", Goldstar enthusiastically stated to Nemesis.

Reaching the basement, Goldstar lands close to the glowing. She can make out that it is Major Star that is laying there. His battle armor has been ripped apart and very little of it remains. His entire body is glowing, surging with energy.

"Can't hold it back any more...", the Major mumbles as Goldstar approaches. "Can't fight... Going critical again..."

Reaching down, Goldstar picks up Major Star and cradles him in her arms. Next she takes off straight up into the sky. After a few seconds all that can be seen is a glowing spot in the sky until that too winks out.

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Frostbite, Eldrich, Serena, White Crane, Sapphire, Yu, and Polaris

Back at Castle Vigilant, the heroes are conversing with Sapphire, Edgar, and Yu...

"Does this work upon demons as well? How about magic spells?"

Yu will send a mouth and an eyestalk Eldrich's way. "Yes. All gone.", the blob of pulsating goo simply answers.

"I understand Edgar, Please take your time. I apologize if we are asking a lot of you but the need is great and in time I will help repay your kindness to us." he will say with a smile. " If there is anything that I might be able to help you with please let me know. And Please don't call me sir Edgar, I'm your friend not your master. After all we are equals partners right?"

"Unfortunately, any equipment that I could use to heal myself does not exist on your world. Thus I can only recover naturally. I know that you are not truly my master, sir, but it is proper etiquette."

"He certainly is interesting to say the least. When are you "inviting" him back to Sanctuary? This is true Sapphire, his skills would be a welcome to any establishment. But I'm glad he is going there... He will be in good hands."

"That depends on when this mission to San Diego is completed", Sapphire will state. "We have no definite departure time presently. I myself will remain for as long as the medical staff is here to serve as their protection."

"Yu if you are willing to help please come with me. I want you to meet Dr. Chang if you haven't already. I would like to make sure it is okay for you to help out. Though I'm sure it should be fine."

Nurse Chang will direct your query to Metalla, who while not a medical person, is more or less in charge of this relieve effort. The silvery metallic woman will listen to Frostbite's idea.

"Yes, I've been made aware of Yu's powers. I have no problem with Yu temporarily neutralizing someone's powers if they are being belligerent. However, permanently removing their powers is a definite gray area. It's not something I would ask him to do at this time. There are legal issues to deal with first."

[GM Mad]

Interlude 2: Most Recently...

Having achieved lightspeed, Goldstar flew away from Earth bearing the glowing Major Star. Space unfolded before the stellar heroine and she continued to accelerate to faster and faster velocities.

Finally, the energy building up in Major Star can no longer be contained. Radioactive energy explodes out in every direction. Goldstar is wildly flung away from Major Star and looses consciousness.

Somewhere on the outer edge of the Solar System, Goldstar re-enters normal space careening helplessly out of control. She reappears amongst a wide expanse of what at first glance appears to be bodies of rock and ice of various sizes and shapes. Goldstar tumbles past many of them before coming to rest in a larger one with a terrific impact.

Time passes and Goldstar does not stir. However, her arrival has not gone unnoticed. Were the sun bright enough this far away to cast shadows, a large one would be noticed covering Goldstar. Suddenly, her limp body rises into the air and begins to move away under someone else's direction. Goldstar is moved closer to the large shadow covering this stellar debris field and drawn inside...

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Lily, Tesla, and Archangel

She looks at Archangel. "Violence. That's your only answer, isn't it? He hasn't harmed a single person, and all you can think of is to beat him up. I think you have a long way to go to understand the concept of hero."

Archangel simply shakes his head and lets out a chuckle. "This isn't about violence, you silly woman, it's about solving the problem in the most expedient matter possible. But no, you want drag this out just to make yourself look good. Well, go right ahead. I just hope this doesn't blow up in your stuck up little face! I'm outta here!"

Archangel will then fly off.

Lily changes into a something that looks like a golden oriental dragon. She glides after the running man with Tesla following. He is racing through an alley on the gigantic set that is San Diego. He looks back and catches a glimpse of dragon-Lily bearing down on him.

The effect is devastating and reality shatters around the women. The San Diego soundstage shatters and falls away in shards...


The next thing Lily knows, she's back in her normal form and alone in the hallway outside of her apartment. There's a crash from inside the apartment. Lily frantically fishes for her keys and finds them. Inserting them into the lock, she opens the door and steps inside.

Much to her horror, she finds Rose struggling in the arms of a familiar man with a handgun pointed at her temple.

"Do come in, Lily," Frank Norton says with a sneer. "We've got so much to catch up on."


The world shatters around Tesla and the next thing she knows she's in the pilot seat of a test jet plane. She looks around in confusion momentarily. The scene is awfully familiar to the young woman.

Suddenly a red warming light flashes on the control panel indicating a problem with the electrical system...

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Blackout, Flux, Nemesis, Gladiator, Psi-Lad, and Quasar

"Do what you can for her, Chimera, but don't leave here with her without talking to the PRIMUS officers first. That would make your patient a fugitive from federal custody. Not much help to her or you either. If you're a medical doctor please consider helping out the injured here as well. There are plenty of people suffering pain."

Chimera shoots Flux an annoyed look, but doesn't immediately say anything. "Very well", she'll finally say. Chimera steps away from Electra and goes to Harpy's side and whispers to the silvery woman. In response to this, Harpy flies off while Chimera goes to render aid to the wounded.

"Hello Starguard. I'm Flux, the man next to me is Blackout. We're part of the Vigilant. Near as we can tell, Major Star suffered an overload of his radiation powers. One of our own members, Goldstar, took him off the planet before he lost control again and that's the last we've seen of either of them. What energy are you reading? Can you track it? We would really like to find them both."

"The Vigilant huh?", Starguard says. "You guys must be new. But not surprising given just how many metahumans have been created here in San Diego."

"Ah, so it was Major Star I was detecting! Yes, he has nuclear energies coursing through him, so that was the radiation source. One of your members took him off planet? That's remarkable! You can count on one hand the number of individuals who can do that in the world!"

"It also does explain some other puzzling readings I've been picking up. That something departed Earth at Faster That Light velocities and there was a nuclear explosion recorded in the Oort Cloud about fifteen minutes ago."

"Yes, I can help you find your missing teammates. I have a small space ship, but it can only hold five people, so only three of you at most can come along, leaving a space for Major Star and assuming that your teammate can return to Earth under her own power."

Having overheard this, Nemesis speaks up. "Hey, can I come along? While I can't fly faster than the speed of light, I can survive in the vacuum of space without assistance. Besides, Goldstar is sort of like a younger sister to me. Please?"

"It's fine with me", Gladiator will say.

"Who else is coming along?", Starguard asks.


Corporal Livingston makes some calls and will address the heroes. "I've secured permission to make use of the ADT facilities test holding cells. The PRIMUS command structure is being relocated to that location as well. Quasar, we'll need some of your teammates on hand to serve as additional security. If some of the Vigilant could be used as well, that would be quite helpful. Tell your perspective teams to begin taking captures to the ADT facility. We'll have a transport here in a few minutes to transfer Silver Avenger Rackham, Electra, and Fire & Ice to that facility."

Chimera starts to object to this, but quickly changes her mind. "ADT, you say? Very well, I'll accompany you there. I may be able to lend further aid." Having said her piece, Chimera helps Electra and head to where others are gathering, waiting for the flying transports to arrive.

"You're assistance would be appreciated, ma'am", Livingston adds. Another PRIMUS Agent comes up to Livingston, bearing a receiver. Excusing himself, Livingston steps away for a moment.

The conversation is brief and Livingston returns the receiver to the PRIMUS Agent. "Ladies and gentlemen, there have been new developments. The Governor has declared San Diego a disaster area. The National Guard is being deployed and a division from the Army will be arriving soon to take command of the situation. Martial Law has been declared until further notice in the Downtown San Diego area."

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

That was a rather eventful post! It slipped my mind, but about two weeks back we reached our one year anniversary for the game! Hard to believe that we've only covered about 26 hours in the last 12 months! This particular game was designed to be more of a roller-coaster ride then my usual Champions fare. Here's to another exciting year of Crucible!

Now what?

[Menagerie]

Lily:

Archangel's reply sounds as immature as he appears. Maybe he will learn in time, or perhaps not. There is little she can do to help him at the moment anyway.

Lily shifts and flies after the man. Unfortunately she didn't account for his fear making things far stranger than they already were. Suddenly, she finds herself face to face with the man she put away. All the old anger and antipathy wash back. At the same time, part of her cannot believe that this is real, any moreso than the "movie set San Diego". Still, she cannot take chances with this man.

"Norton! What are you doing here?" she replies as she steps into the room. As she does so, she looks for the orange glow her daughter had been exhibiting lately. She also shifts her eyes to get a much better view of the convict as a means of testing whether her powers were still working.

__________________________________________________________
Note: Gary Norton is the man she put away. Frank Colucci is her detective friend.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite


Frosty listens to Edgar as he explains he cannot make cells at the moment. A process that will take the visitor a while to make it possible.



"Unfortunately, any equipment that I could use to heal myself does not exist on your world. Thus I can only recover naturally. I know that you are not truly my master, sir, but it is proper etiquette."




His features drop into a concerned look as he speaks, "That is a shame. Any idea how long it will take you to fully recover from? I'm merely not used to being referred to as sir. Makes me feel like my father is looking over my shoulder." he says with an easy smile.

Metalla--



Nurse Chang will direct your query to Metalla, who while not a medical person, is more or less in charge of this relieve effort. The silvery metallic woman will listen to Frostbite's idea.

"Yes, I've been made aware of Yu's powers. I have no problem with Yu temporarily neutralizing someone's powers if they are being belligerent. However, permanently removing their powers is a definite gray area. It's not something I would ask him to do at this time. There are legal issues to deal with first."





" I understand, I merely thought it would be a good idea to temporarily remove their powers due to our lack of 'super cells'. My concern is that if the women awakes before the others and left unchecked she could cast a spell in order to escape our facilities unnoticed. Eldrich i he has such a spell to transport things/people short distances, as you might have seen on the docks earlier. Perhaps it is a gray area but I cant help wonder if she has such a similar spell in her arsenal."

"If you think it unwise to temporarily remove their powers than I will abide by your decision."

After the discussion Frosty will head down to the Training room and practice with his powers. When he reaches the training room he will begin to rack his brain as a possible ways for himself to get around rather than the Goldstar Express or Edgar's fancy flying Frisbee. "Wait a sec." as an idea begins to form in his head, He begins to concentrate on a version of an Ice wall but laying down on an angle. As He skates slides up the makeshift ramp and near the end he will try to start turning it as well as up and down being sure not to hit the walls.
Also if time permits he will try to tame his cold aura by concentrating on suppressing it without turn back to his human form. [/i]

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Looks like I'm not the only one who thinks Lily needs to wake up a bit. Tesla just watches as Archangel flies off as she needs to stick with her teammate. There will enough time to sort out things later if need be. Tesla begins to concentrate on taking flight again when she looks up and notices the man's expression at Lily's not-so-subtle form. This is going to be bad...

Suddenly Tesla finds herself repeating that fateful day where her whole life changed. Was I dreaming, what happened..? Suddenly the test plane begins to experience the electrical failure and Tesla has to fight down the returning fear.

This can't be happening again! Is it another illusion, or something more real..? If it is a repeat of the accident, she knows what didn't work the first time and will try a different approach - her ultimate goal being to land or eject safely. If the plane is destined to repeat its same death scene, she will try to use her powers to destroy the canopy and escape the way she wasn't able to the first time.

[Bruce]

Eldrich Arcane

Yu will send a mouth and an eyestalk Eldrich's way. "Yes. All gone.", the blob of pulsating goo simply answers.

All gone. No, best not to risk it.

Eldrich is somewhat lost among all these strangers, so he will float above the castle-that-is-Edgar via the Cloak, enjoying the scenery, fine weather, and keeping an eye out for other arrivals and or trouble.

[Bruce]

Flux

As Chimera responds so reasonably Flux releases an inaudible sigh of relief.

Someone reasonable at least, if not gracious. Still bears watching though.

"Yes, we are new here. Most of our group were involved with the White Event, one way or another, and with the loss of the Steel Squadron we felt the need to form a team."

Flux listens to Starguard's explanations and offer of space transport, mulling that need against that of Corporal Livingston's security needs.

And just where is an Oort cloud and how far away is that I wonder?

"I can squeeze myself into a very small space if I need to, so don't worry about fitting me in. But first let me make a call..."

*"Frostbite, have you secured the prisoners there? We have a new official location to transport them to and a security job for the transition of others. Copy, over?"*

While waiting for the radio response Flux hears Corporal Livingston announce the Governor's decision with some relief: now things could start to be organized for the better.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite

As Frosty and Metalla begin to converse of the relieving of the trios powers temporarily his radio beeps into life. He quickly excuses himself and answers the radio.
*"Frostbite, have you secured the prisoners there? We have a new official location to transport them to and a security job for the transition of others. Copy, over?"*

*"They are sleeping like babies and in the cells. Roger that. Slight problem though, How we gonna get them there walk? I dont think Edgar's Flying Frizbee would suffice. Could you ask Primus if they could provide the transport while we play babysitter? Over?"

Afterword he will speak to Metalla, "It seems we wont be needing to hinder their powers after all. We are to take them to a new faculity{he assumes}." Afterword He will go and tell the others of what transpired.

[Serena]

Serena:

Not even a return to the castle in the bay can boast Serena's sprits. The feeling really hadn't fully sunk in until her failure to dispatch the demons in the arena.

Seeing the castle is busy with those in need of the priests attention, Serena goes up to the higher levels. Finding a quiet place that looks out over the bay, Serena sits down and contemplates her future.

The Knight finds no comfort staring out at the strange city. The buildings are far too high and constructed out of materials she is unfamiliar with. It is a strange alien place where Serena does not belong.

However, home, wherever that is, is lost somewhere far away. Feeling very lost and very alone, Serena sits and waits for what happens next.

[Nemesis]

Nemesis:

After checking up on Psi-Lad, Nemesis joins the others by Starguard. After hearing that the man in the starry armor can take us to find Goldstar, Jen immediately volunteers to go along.

"While I can fly faster than the speed of light, I can survive unprotected in space. Can I go? Please?"

Gladiator agrees and so Jen will wait stay near Starguard until it is time to leave.

After hearing more of Starguard's explanation, Jen will ask, "What the heck is an Oort cloud? How far away is it?"

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Minor updates:

Lily:

Lily fails to not any glow coming from Lily. Try as she might, her eyes do not change like they did before.

"Norton! What are you doing here?"

"Evening up the score, you stupid cow! You put me away, now I'm gonna make you pay with your precious daughter's blood!"

He menacing jerks the gun at Rose's head…


Tesla:

The woman who became Tesla struggles to control her aircraft. None of the controls seem to be working, even the ejection system. She experimentally tries to blast the canopy away, but nothing comes out of her hands. The altimeter continues it downward count to the ground below…


Frostbite:

Edgar:

"Any idea how long it will take you to fully recover?"

"It may take months, or I may never fully recover. I cannot tell at the present time."


Metalla:

"I understand, I merely thought it would be a good idea to temporarily remove their powers due to our lack of 'super cells'. My concern is that if the woman awakes before the others and left unchecked she could cast a spell in order to escape our facilities unnoticed. Eldrich i he has such a spell to transport things/people short distances, as you might have seen on the docks earlier. Perhaps it is a gray area but I cant help wonder if she has such a similar spell in her arsenal."

"If you think it unwise to temporarily remove their powers than I will abide by your decision."

"Sanctuary was created as a place for those with superpowers to relax and mingle", Metalla explains. "That includes those who would be considered criminals. Sanctuary is in effect neutral ground for all supers. It is not our policy to hold or imprison any super, regardless of what they have done elsewhere. Based on that, Sanctuary condoning the permanent removal of any beings powers goes against our policy. It would remove the neutrality of our organization."

"As I stated before, I do not have a problem of temporarily removing the powers of those who are being belligerent. I cannot condone the permanent removal of said powers."


Down in the training room, Frosty practices being able to slide around on icy ramps that he generates. It becomes easier to do as he gets the hang of it.


Flux & Nemesis:

Starguard:

"I can squeeze myself into a very small space if I need to, so don't worry about fitting me in. But first let me make a call..."

"Ah, that's a very handy ability for tight squeezes."

After hearing more of Starguard's explanation, Jen will ask, "What the heck is an Oort cloud? How far away is it?"

"The Oort cloud is a halo of debris, primarily rock and various ices, that surrounds the solar system out beyond the orbit of Pluto. Its basically what was left over after the solar system was formed and extends out approximately 1.5 light years out from the sun."

After hearing Flux speak with Frostbite, he'll add, "We don't have to go this very instant if you have other obligations. There are several other things I will to investigate here in San Diego. For instance, I'm picking up very large life signs out in North San Diego Bay. Would any of you know anything about that?"

[Bruce]

Flux

Thank you for asking that question-and saving me from embarrasment!

After hearing Flux speak with Frostbite, he'll add, "We don't have to go this very instant if you have other obligations. There are several other things I will to investigate here in San Diego. For instance, I'm picking up very large life signs out in North San Diego Bay. Would any of you know anything about that?"

"Yes, I would. It's probably our new base. Right in the bay and presently occupied by us and the Sanctuary medical staff and the prisoners we caught, plus any people that came by or were brought in for treatment."

"I am impressed by your ability to sense these things, but I would like to go after Major Star and Goldstar as soon as possible. Can you arrange to leave soon?"

Let's hope he can. Now I wonder how long the trip will take?

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Starguard:

"Yes, I would. It's probably our new base. Right in the bay and presently occupied by us and the Sanctuary medical staff and the prisoners we caught, plus any people that came by or were brought in for treatment."

Starguard seems monetarily surprised by this revealation. "Then you must also be aware that the being is extraterrestrial in nature? Most extraordinary! A living entity that is large enough for beings to dwell in. I did think that castle was a bit out of place when I arrived here."

After a contemplative pause, Starguard will add, "Could I meet this entity? I would like to know more about it."

Sensing that Flux requires more information Starguard continues with, "I am the designated Starguard operative here on Earth. It is my mission to protect the planet from extraterrestrial threats and other menaces that threaten the globe. I'm not suggesting that your castle is a danger in any manner. What you told me does remind me of a series of legendary beings who were living spaceships that traveled the space and dimensions rendering aid where needed. Such a being was said to be created by a race long since vanished known as the Progenitors."

"I am impressed by your ability to sense these things, but I would like to go after Major Star and Goldstar as soon as possible. Can you arrange to leave soon?"

"I can leave at almost a moment's notice."

[Blackout]

Blackout:

"Yes, I can help you find your missing teammates. I have a small space ship, but it can only hold five people, so only three of you at most can come along, leaving a space for Major Star and assuming that your teammate can return to Earth under her own power."

Having overheard this, Nemesis speaks up. "Hey, can I come along? While I can't fly faster than the speed of light, I can survive in the vacuum of space without assistance. Besides, Goldstar is sort of like a younger sister to me. Please?"

"It's fine with me", Gladiator will say.

"Who else is coming along?", Starguard asks.

"As much as an adventure that the offer sounds like, I have no skills or experience in space travel. Would hate to get sick in the cramped interior of your ship," Blackout will respond, "so I'll keep my butt here on this tiny little planet and help out where I can."

Blackout will wait and see what Flux ultimately decides and determine what he will do next based on that.

[Menagerie]

Lily:

"Evening up the score, you stupid cow! You put me away, now I'm gonna make you pay with your precious daughter's blood!"

There is no sign of either her new powers, or of Rose's. Either this is not real, or the last 24 hours have not been. Unfortunately, it is impossible to know for sure which, though she has her suspicions.

"Why bother with my daughter, Gary? Isn't it me you really want?"

[Bruce]

Flux

*"They are sleeping like babies and in the cells. Roger that. Slight problem though, How we gonna get them there walk? I dont think Edgar's Flying Frizbee would suffice. Could you ask Primus if they could provide the transport while we play babysitter? Over?" *

*"Roger that, Frost wiil so notify PRIMUS."

"Also, be aware that the Governor has made downtown an official disaster area." *

"Corporal Livingston, there are some more prisioners back at Castle Vigilent and Starguard would like to make a quick visit too. Could you send a transport out there for a pick-up? We can get out there on our own."

"Blackout, if you're staying here help guard the transport to ADT with Frostbite."

"Alright, if we're going let's go now. We're burning daylight here."

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Nothing. No powers, no change in this blasted aircraft. Can't be sure what's real or not, but I doubt I blacked out in here long enough to have such a lengthy daydream about becoming a super powered individual.

Tesla is still struggling to bring the aircraft under control, any sort of control, while she battles out things in her mind.

So if I am really repeating what was probably my worst day until I learned I survived and gained powers, all I need to do is disbelieve right?

Tesla will try to shake what she believes is just another illusion from her mind. She knows the plane won't respond anyway, so stops bothering trying to fight it for control. If she is going to repeat the exact same thing again, she knows eventually she will recover from the horrible accident and begin to learn about her super powers. Tesla tries to drive fear and doubt from her mind and focus on getting back to Lily and a better way to deal with the disturbed man rather than using dragon forms.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed