Crucible #43 - "Promise of a New Day"

[GM Mad]

Crucible #43 - "Promise of a New Day"


A new day has begun in beleaguered San Diego. The Vigilant have rose to find even more changes in Edgar. Thanks to Starguard's efforts, the living hospital ship has been able to expand and add new equipment. Chief among these is a new Medical Center that includes a DNA splicing machine that may be able to cure those who were transformed by the White Event. The only catch is that you need to find an unmutated DNA sample for that person.

Having been brought up to date with what transpired during the night, the Vigilant plan their activities for the day. Some wish to get some training in before departing, while others have things they wish to investigate.


Backlash:

"Well, If it is possible could I be tested before heading out into the field(next day)? Or would this be short notice on my part."

"It can be done immediately", Edgar says, interrupting Gladiator.

A mechanical arm emerges from behind a panel in the wall and hovers before Backlash momentarily. It then projects a harmless beam of light that is quickly run up and down Backlashes body. Just as quickly as it appeared, the scanner is gone again.

"You're in peak physical condition", Edgar will report. "You are naturally stronger, faster, and healthier that most. You can leap great distances and you can rapidly heal wounds."

"You're able to increase your own physical density making your self heavier, stronger, and tougher. It is very similar to the 'Neutron Star' power that Miss Goldstar possesses."

"Furthermore, you are able to absorb kinetic energy and use it to further amplify your strength, agility, and overall toughness. That seems to cover everything."

[GM Mad]

Menagerie:

Lily will do her best to settle Yu's fear. She'll encourage him to talk about what he fears and help him to understand that all of the people here will strive to protect him from those things.

The root of Yu's fears, beyond his incredible timidness, is that he simply finds humans to be HIDEOUS! They are the most horrible looking things that he's ever seen. Like monsters from a nightmare. (Of course must humans would say the same thing about him…)

"While I have learned a lot about my powers in the last couple days, I could certainly use some training, particularly in fighting - since it seems like it will be hard to avoid as a metahuman." It is clear from her tone that she is not happy about the inevitability of combat in her new lifestyle, but seems to accept it's necessity.

"Then it seems that some time in the training area is required", Gladiator will state. "I'll gather some of my trainees and we'll convene there in thirty minutes."

Lily doesn't much like the sound of any of this. She lacks confidence in the likelihood of the government doing anything so rational. She also dislikes the need to function surreptitiously until such a miracle should take place. "I'm sorry, Gladiator, but personally I wouldn't recommend anyone hold their breath until that happens. In the meantime, there are many things that need to be done, and I don't know how long we can put them off."

"I did not mean to imply that it was a good decision, merely that it is the state of things. I agree that something needs to be done and that they are clearly overmatched. Preventable things could be stopped while we wait for them to reach this conclusion. It becomes a case of following one's own conscience rather than the law. All of which just serves to perpetuate the issues between PRIMUS and most supers."



An impromptu training session is held for those who wish such a thing. Most of the Young Champions and their mentor Gladiator are on hand. Gladiator has White Crane take Menagerie off to one corner so that the young marital artist can give Lily some pointers. Lily discovers that White Crane is incredibly fast and agile, at least to her default form.

Blackout finally gets his shot at Gladiator in mock combat and quickly learns while he is considered the greatest hand to hand combatant in the world. Gladiator's speed, agility, and strength are incredible. He easily mimics Blackout's own fighting style and seems to avoid being hit with frightening ease. The mock fighting will go on for as long as Blackout wishes, as Gladiator does not seem to tire.


After the training session, several of the group departs on various missions.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The other characters are free to join in on the training session with the various other members of the Young Champions. Depends on the character and the type of training you are looking to get.

I didn't get into the various missions this time, but here is a list of who I have being interested in doing what.

Flux plans to go into the city and get a DNA sample for Bug-Eyed Sally. She'll provide the address of her apartment in the city.

Frostbite and Goldstar have expressed interest in finding the transformed Blue Steel, AKA Killer Frost. How do you two plan to find her? Various reports that you would suspect linked to her suggest that she hasn't ventured far from the Horton's Plaza area where she was first transformed.

Backlash and Tesla have expressed interest in finding Armstrong, a powerfully built black man wearing a business suit who seems to be out in the city collecting specimens for some unknown reason. How do you plan to locate him? His known appearances have been all over the Downtown San Diego area.

Menagerie and Serena are planning to return to the Steel Squadron base. The location of the base is known, so the only thing I need to know is how you are going to get there. As I recall, the base is NOT in the militarized zone, so no laws will be broken by going there. (Just circle around the Downtown area.)

To refresh everyone's memory, the Steel Squadron was a collection of five armored individuals who were the hometown hero team until the day of the White Event. They burst in on Devilspawn and the Denier's dark ritual in Horton's Plaza, but were unable to stop it from happening.

The White Event affected each of them different. Black Steel, the team leader, dropped dead. Grey Steel become as brittle as an eggshell and simply shattered. Red Steel was transformed into the violent powerhouse known only as Rage. Rage washed up on a beach yesterday and appears to have drowned. Before that, Rage was last seen being taken away by Green Steel, the only member of the squad that didn't appear to suffer any ill effects from the White Event. It is suspected that the Talon who turned up overnight is the former Green Steel.

That just leaves Blue Steel, the lone female of the group. She was transformed into an ice-like being that has been dubbed Killer Frost. She seems driven to absorb the warmth from those around her, killing them in the process.

During the group's previous visit to the Foundry, the Steel Squadron's base of operations, they encountered VIPER Agents. They discovered a secret level underneath a base and found a Mech-Viper down there.


That just leaves Blackout, Eldrich, and Tilt-A-Whirl as not having on land missions in the works. How do you plan to accomplish your objectives?

Now what?

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

The root of Yu's fears, beyond his incredible timidness, is that he simply finds humans to be HIDEOUS! They are the most horrible looking things that he's ever seen. Like monsters from a nightmare. (Of course must humans would say the same thing about him…)

Lily will attempt to transform into an appearance similar to Yu's if that helps him to feel a little better.

"Pardon me but up to now I hadn't heard a formal request for anything except membership regarding Sanctuary. That is not mutually exclusive but I didn't want to interfere with your decision making process. If you want to join the Vigilant and work for Sanctuary that's fine by me. One pays, presumably, and the other does not."

Lily looks at Flux for a moment, wondering if their leader is confused. She hadn't heard anything about them offering paying jobs, but that doesn't mean that they aren't, so she says nothing.

She smiles as Backlash and Tilt-A-Whirl are offered memberships in The Vigilant. The others seem quite happy for the additions as well. It seems their group is quickly becoming quite large...

"Well, quite honestly, I don't remember being formally invited either," Tesla will say, trying to remember. "Everything just sort of happened and I found myself becoming part of the team just by being here. Hopefully, when things calm down a bit, we will have a more defined roster and I would assume an established chain of command? It seems to me that Flux is in charge and then it's Menagerie. Is that correct, or did I miss something earlier?"

"Well, yes and no, really. Flux was chosen as leader of The Vigilant. I just have a tendency to speak my mind, particularly when we're split up and Flux is with a different group. That said, it might make sense to select a couple secondary leaders for just that kind of situation."

As the discussion progresses, different tasks are selected and various people volunteer for them. Also, based on the discussion between Edgar, Goldstar and Serena, it seems their information needs are well covered. However, the concept of the information being directly transferred into their brains is a little hard for Lily to comprehend.

"If you take the form of something large enough to allow a passenger, then I would like to accompany you. We have unfinished business at the Steel Fortress. That coupled with getting the spell components to cure the Blue Knight makes it worth ignoring the Lord of this land's edict. The greater good must always take precedence. I am ready to depart when you are."

"I don't see why that would be a problem. Their base is outside the zone of control by the military, so we shouldn't have to be particularly sneaky. You're certainly welcome to come along; I'll find a form that will work. Do you know how to ride a horse? Anyone else want to join us? If we run into that robot-whatever again, a little extra help wouldn't hurt."

Edgar's testing and explanation of Backlash's powers proves quite interesting. The similarity to Goldstar's power is intriguing as well. From the sound of it, he is quite a powerhouse.

"I did not mean to imply that it was a good decision, merely that it is the state of things. I agree that something needs to be done and that they are clearly overmatched. Preventable things could be stopped while we wait for them to reach this conclusion. It becomes a case of following one's own conscience rather than the law. All of which just serves to perpetuate the issues between PRIMUS and most supers."

"Quite a sticky situation, all the way around. Hopefully, we can keep from irritating the authorities too much in the meantime." Lily has hopes, but doubts that they will entirely succeed. In her experience, government institutions can be quite particular about certain niceties.

Lily thanks White Crane for working with her. The girl's speed and agility are incredible. She'll try some attempts at using her own ability to boost her quickness to offset that, but mostly she focusses on learning whatever techniques the youngster is willing to teach.

When they're ready to leave, Lily's plan is to change into and orca (i.e. killer whale) and swim to as close a point as possible to the Foundry, allowing Serena and whomever else to ride on her back. Once there, she can change to a horse and continue to transport them as far as needed. She will, of course, be sure to remain outside the area of martial law.

[Bruce]

Flux

"Then let's get it formalized right now. Edgar, I'd like you to machine several small insignia that we can attach to our clothes. What I envision is something very much like this castle's battelments as background and a stylized 'V'. Pull up a few designs for us to look at and we'll settle on a style by tonight. By tomorrow we'll have a formal sit-down and hammer out a mission statement to give to the press and city at the appropriate time."

"And let me clarify my preveous statement: The Vigilant do not pay a salary. This is a volunteer outfit. Santuary staff get paid as they are employees. I see no problem with an employee of Sanctuary also joining us. That said, I believe Backlash is only looking to sign up for time on Sanctuary not a job there."

[Backlash]

Backlash
"

It can be done immediately", Edgar says, interrupting Gladiator.

"Ah okay," as he looks at the figure known as Edgar,"Where do you need me to stand..." though the answer comes oon enough as a mechanical arm comes from the ceiling and begins scanning him from head to toe.

"You're in peak physical condition", Edgar will report. "You are naturally stronger, faster, and healthier that most. You can leap great distances and you can rapidly heal wounds."

"That would explain walking away from that highspeed hit and run stunt the other day at work...." he says under his breath.

Backlash and Tesla have expressed interest in finding Armstrong, a powerfully built black man wearing a business suit who seems to be out in the city collecting specimens for some unknown reason. How do you plan to locate him? His known appearances have been all over the Downtown San Diego area.

Turning to Edgar he will ask," Could you pull up the sightings on this Armstrong guy? Perhaps there is some pattern that we havent seen as of yet.(street wise) If this guy has been seen all over downtown then most likely he is orginating somewhere there as well." he will look to the others.

After seeing what the others think he will simply ask Tesla," Why not give this knuckle head exactly what he wants? supers... If we staged a fight perhaps we could trick him into coming closer. He's seen you Tesla not me, so he wouldnt know we are on the same side, We could work this to Our advantage."

"Then let's get it formalized right now. Edgar, I'd like you to machine several small insignia that we can attach to our clothes. What I envision is something very much like this castle's battelments as background and a stylized 'V'. Pull up a few designs for us to look at and we'll settle on a style by tonight. By tomorrow we'll have a formal sit-down and hammer out a mission statement to give to the press and city at the appropriate time."

"And let me clarify my preveous statement: The Vigilant do not pay a salary. This is a volunteer outfit. Santuary staff get paid as they are employees. I see no problem with an employee of Sanctuary also joining us. That said, I believe Backlash is only looking to sign up for time on Sanctuary not a job there."

"That is a good idea Flux but why stop there with the insignias? Could put a homing device/ radio in each one so that we can find each other in a pinch if needed." he will state.
"Also, It was my intent to see what my options were, Seeing how Sanctuary is a resorts of sorts I saw no reason not to attempt to join. We all need a little rest and relaxation sometimes and from what they say it sounds appealing."

[Frostbite]

Frostbite

Blackout finally gets his shot at Gladiator in mock combat and quickly learns while he is considered the greatest hand to hand combatant in the world. Gladiator's speed, agility, and strength are incredible. He easily mimics Blackout's own fighting style and seems to avoid being hit with frightening ease. The mock fighting will go on for as long as Blackout wishes, as Gladiator does not seem to tire.

Frosty watches as Gladiator and Blackout face off with each other. He is soon amazed at how easily Gladiator adapts to his opponent, almost becoming apart of him. As much as Blackout attempts to strike it is as though Gladiator is one step ahead of him.
An idea comes to him as he begins watching the sparing commence. Why not learn to use weapons that he himself can make? as well as make armor to better defend himself.
For several moments Fosty concentrates on making icile barbs that protrude from his body.
After the mock battle is over Frosty will approach both Blackout and Gladiator. "You guys were great! Wish I could do some of those moves." then he will ask Gladiator," Would you be able to teach me some maneveurs to defend as well as attack? Earlier I was able to make boxing gloves to cover my hands, I think I could create other such weapons to defend myself with, that is if you would be willing to teach me how to use them?"

Frostbite and Goldstar have expressed interest in finding the transformed Blue Steel, AKA Killer Frost. How do you two plan to find her? Various reports that you would suspect linked to her suggest that she hasn't ventured far from the Horton's Plaza area where she was first transformed.

Frosty will approach Edgar and ask, "With all these upgrades you did would you be able to Thermal Image the city for us? If my bet is correct There would only be a few things as cold as Me. One being Killer frost!!! If it moves its gotta be her..... or an ice cream truck." he says with a goofy smile.

[Tilt-A-Whirl]

Tilt-A-Whirl:

The new castle layout is great but her tour ends too soon! A bit saddened, Tilt wanders around until she sees the training room. She whips in and watches with wide eyes as Blackout and Gladiator spar. The moves impress her and she starts mimicking the two, although in a slightly-faster, highly-untrained fashion. She looks more goofy than intimidating attempting their moves. Still, it keeps her occupied.

After, there is some talk about the group, insignias and missions, "ohohiwannajoin!" she sputters out in excitement, "willtheinsigniasbelikeonstartrek??!"

Catching herself again, she stammers as she changes the subject as quickly as she talks, "if anyone.. thinks they.. will need.. a quick scout of a place.. i'm your girl!" Tilt figures they will put her in the best team where she can use her speed to its fullest advantage.

[Backlash]

Backlash

Catching herself again, she stammers as she changes the subject as quickly as she talks, "if anyone.. thinks they.. will need.. a quick scout of a place.. i'm your girl!" Tilt figures they will put her in the best team where she can use her speed to its fullest advantage.

Scratching his head he will look at Flux and offer the suggestion,"Well if Edgar's abilities arent able to help us find the Bounty Hunter;perhaps Tilt's speed would be an asset in finding him?"

[Blackout]

Blackout:

Blackout finally gets his shot at Gladiator in mock combat and quickly learns while he is considered the greatest hand to hand combatant in the world. Gladiator's speed, agility, and strength are incredible. He easily mimics Blackout's own fighting style and seems to avoid being hit with frightening ease. The mock fighting will go on for as long as Blackout wishes, as Gladiator does not seem to tire.

Blackout is filled with anticipation and excitement at finally getting a shot to go up against one of the best. He starts out easy, gauging exactly what Gladiator will use against him, only to find out Gladiator is using his own style! Blackout knows every possible inch of his fighting style, or so he thinks. While he seems to be doing well, he can't seem to land a single blow! He, himself, keeps from getting hit but wonders if Gladiator is holding back. Finally Blackout calls an end to the match and bows respectfully to Gladiator. "Thank you for the opportunity," is what he will tell his superior.

"I don't see why that would be a problem. Their base is outside the zone of control by the military, so we shouldn't have to be particularly sneaky. You're certainly welcome to come along; I'll find a form that will work. Do you know how to ride a horse? Anyone else want to join us? If we run into that robot-whatever again, a little extra help wouldn't hurt."

"Sure, I'll go with you," Blackout tells Menagerie. "I figured on getting some more practice time in, but this situation is probably more important."

Blackout will talk to Edgar and see if he can set up a few other training courses for later, including ones to test his aim with his throwing rod. "Something with a series of rings, maybe swinging like on pendulums, or rotating drums, at different speeds in front of a small target. Something where I would have to get my timing right to be able to throw the rod through all the rings and still be able to hit the target beyond."

[Tesla]

Tesla:

After seeing what the others think he will simply ask Tesla," Why not give this knuckle head exactly what he wants? supers... If we staged a fight perhaps we could trick him into coming closer. He's seen you Tesla not me, so he wouldnt know we are on the same side, We could work this to Our advantage."

"Sounds like a good idea, if we can narrow down where he was most recently, we could do a running mock battle too," Tesla suggests, "covering more ground in hopes to draw his attention. Of course, we don't want to draw the wrong attention." She says the last wondering how long they could put up a show before the Army moved in to investigate. "He probably has some sort of tracking or ability to identify supers," she offers up, "otherwise I'm not sure how he is finding his targets."

Scratching his head he will look at Flux and offer the suggestion,"Well if Edgar's abilities arent able to help us find the Bounty Hunter;perhaps Tilt's speed would be an asset in finding him?"

"That could work too," Tesla chimes in. "After all she did bring that robot right to us last time." Tesla smiles over at Tilt, wondering if the young girl will catch her meaning.

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

"And let me clarify my preveous statement: The Vigilant do not pay a salary. This is a volunteer outfit. Santuary staff get paid as they are employees. I see no problem with an employee of Sanctuary also joining us. That said, I believe Backlash is only looking to sign up for time on Sanctuary not a job there."

"I've been looking into applying for membership at Sanctuary, myself. It sounds like they have some very good programs and benefits for members. Nice place to vacation, too."

There is some talk of insignia / communicators, but Lily doesn't really have a technical bent, so stays out of the conversation. The other teams start to form plans, and Tilt-A-Whirl appears to be joining up with Backlash and Tesla in the search for Armstrong. As they will likely be going into the militarized zone, Lily can only hope that the young woman's youth and enthusiasm doesn't get them in too much trouble with the authorities.

"Sure, I'll go with you," Blackout tells Menagerie. "I figured on getting some more practice time in, but this situation is probably more important."

"That sounds great. Having you along will no doubt prove beneficial, especially if we end up in combat yet again," she says with a smile. From what she can tell, he seems pretty skilled in combat - an area where she is definitely lacking.

[Serena]

Serena:

The Knight will join in on the practice session, but would prefer to confront someone who uses a weapon much like her sword. Another swordsman would be perfect.

"I don't see why that would be a problem. Their base is outside the zone of control by the military, so we shouldn't have to be particularly sneaky. You're certainly welcome to come along; I'll find a form that will work. Do you know how to ride a horse? Anyone else want to join us? If we run into that robot-whatever again, a little extra help wouldn't hurt."

"That will make this much easier then", Serena agrees. At least they won't be completely breaking the ruler's laws in this instance. "Yes, I know how to ride a horse, Lily."

"Sure, I'll go with you," Blackout tells Menagerie. "I figured on getting some more practice time in, but this situation is probably more important."

"Welcome, comrade. I don't believe that we've shard a mission before. It should be educational for both of us."

Serena is ready to depart when Blackout and Lily are.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

Goldstar watches the practicing with out much enthusiasm. It's not really her thing.

Later talk turns to the various missions on the table and how Edgar can help. Goldstar will step up to field some of the question sent his way.

"Welp, I thing Edgar can detect variations in temperature, so that may be a way to find Killer Frost. I don't think he can track that bounty hunter just yet. He needs to have a person in his database before he can locate them with sensors. So he could locate all of us easy enough, but not a specific stranger."

Tilt steps up and agrees to do the legwork involved in tracking these folks down.

"Sounds like a plan to me. Frosty and I can fly overhead and move in when Tilt finds something. Is that okay?"

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

"That will make this much easier then", Serena agrees. At least they won't be completely breaking the ruler's laws in this instance. "Yes, I know how to ride a horse, Lily."

"Excellent. You'll be able to help Blackout if he hasn't ridden before."

It appears that they are ready, so Lily leads Serena and Blackout to the dock. Diving into the water, she transforms her body into that of an orca and swims up to the dock. "Climb aboard! We can swim up the San Diego River to a spot close to the Foundry. It should only be a short ride from there."

Once they are sitting comfortably on her back, Lily uses her powerful flippers and tail to swim swiftly toward their destination.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Practice, Practice:

Finally Blackout calls an end to the match and bows respectfully to Gladiator. "Thank you for the opportunity," is what he will tell his superior.

"You are welcome", Gladiator will say in his ever calm demeanor.

After the mock battle is over Frosty will approach both Blackout and Gladiator. "You guys were great! Wish I could do some of those moves." then he will ask Gladiator," Would you be able to teach me some maneuvers to defend as well as attack? Earlier I was able to make boxing gloves to cover my hands, I think I could create other such weapons to defend myself with, that is if you would be willing to teach me how to use them?"

"I can teach you what I can while I am here in San Diego. Perhaps a regular class schedule might be set up?"

Blackout will talk to Edgar and see if he can set up a few other training courses for later, including ones to test his aim with his throwing rod. "Something with a series of rings, maybe swinging like on pendulums, or rotating drums, at different speeds in front of a small target. Something where I would have to get my timing right to be able to throw the rod through all the rings and still be able to hit the target beyond."

"Already in place, Sir", Edgar states. "The combat simulator can be used to create the challenges that you've suggested and more. You may try it anytime you wish."

The Knight will join in on the practice session, but would prefer to confront someone who uses a weapon much like her sword. Another swordsman would be perfect.

Archangel will step up to challenge Serena in a contest of swords. The winged Young Champion presents a different challenge for the Knight as he combines his natural flight with swordplay. 'Angel is faster than Serena is in her natural state, but she skill with the blade enables her to compensate.

"You're quite good with the blade", Archangel will compliment. "Perhaps we can continue sparing later on in private if you know what I mean."

[GM Mad]

Missions:

At last, the Vigilant go forth on a variety of missions…


Roll Call: Flux

Flux goes forth to collect the DNA sample needed to try the new procedure out on Bug-Eyed Sally. He flies off and then using his powers shrinks and becomes desolid to avoid detection.

He reaches the address given and enters just like a ghost. Flux is momentarily surprised to discover that Sally has a roommate! Fortunately, it is easy for him to avoid her and locate a hair brush containing several strands of Sally's unmutated hair.

While Flux works, the roommate is watching a local news report on the TV. The reporters are lamenting the fact that they are not allowed into the militarized zone during this crisis.

Suddenly, the program is interrupted by a late breaking bulletin concerning the Caliente Nuclear Testing Laboratories in the outskirts of San Diego. The place is well known to Flux as he works there for his brother Sam!

Reports indicate that the Supervillain team of Terror Unlimited is threatening to explode an experimental fast-breeder reactor unless they are paid one billion dollars in the next six hours!


Roll Call: Frostbite & Goldstar

Edgar tunes his sensors to detect variations in temperature in Downtown San Diego, specifically in the vicinity of Horton's Plaza. Multiple sources are detected within Horton's Plaza and the locations are relayed to Frostbite by way of Edgar's communication system.

Goldstar carries Frostbite back to Horton's Plaza. She flies high in the sky to reach your destination before diving down to reach the large shopping complex.

As the pair descends from the sky, they can make out movement on the roof of Horton's Plaza. Getting closer, you can see that is a man and woman.

The man is wearing archaic looking white armor and carries a mace and shield with him. The emblem of the cross is emblazed upon the shield.

The woman is also all in white and quiet attractive with dark brown hair and eyes. She wears flowing white robes that leave only her head and hands uncovered. A white cloak dangles from her shoulders.

The pair notice Frostbite and Goldstar as they get closer.

"Who goes there!", the man calls out. "Be you friend or foe? Are you responsible for unleashing the enchantment that I am sensing?"

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Backlash & Tesla


Edgar brings up the locations where Armstrong's presence can be verified. Almost a dozen dots cover the screen. But there does seem to be a pattern to them. The majority of the sightings all took place in a four block radius about half a mile north of Horton's Plaza. This seems like the best place to have your mock battle in hopes of drawing Armstrong out.

And so the pair head into San Diego. Tesla simply flies, while Backlash covers ground in large leaps once he reaches the mainland. However, they don't go more than three blocks before stumbling onto an ongoing battle.

A unit of army soldiers, complete with a tank, are engaging the man-beast known as the Monster! The horrific figure is more than holding his own against the onslaught of the army weapons. He picks up a car and hurtles it at the troops!


Roll Call: Blackout, Menagerie & Serena

The Foundry, the headquarters for the former Steel Squadron, is the destination for this trio. It is outside the militarized zone and shouldn't be difficult to reach.

First Menagerie transforms into a killer whale to transport her passengers to the mainland. Then once Blackout and Serena are on board, she begins to swim to the west and towards the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.

As the group closes in on Shelter Island, they can see a large shipyard and dock up ahead. Flashes in the sky can't help but attract their attention.

Up ahead there is a glowing, costumed man flying in the sky! He's hovering over a cargo ship and firing energy blasts down on those on deck! In response, the crew of the ship are firing automatic weapons back.

The man has black hair and wears a multi-colored costume consisting of white, red, and green. As you watch, he fires an energy blast that takes down one of the armed crewmen.

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Tilt-A-Whirl

The newest member of the Vigilant has offered to use her superspeed to quickly scout out the Downtown area for trouble. Once given a communicator and shown how to use it, Tilt is off.

Edgar will point out for Tilt's benefit that she doesn't have to use the slow moving platforms to reach the mainland. She runs so fast she can simply run across the water!

Once in the Downtown area, Tilt begins to happily explore. Several army units are encountered, but she easily avoids them. However, there seems to be trouble at one of the army checkpoints nearby. A van that has obviously had armor added to it just ran the blockade and is speeding into the militarized zone! The soldiers fire upon it, but the bullets are stopped by the armor for the most part.

The armored van rapidly speeds away, rounds a corner, and is out of sight.


GM Notes:

That should give everyone something to do! (Except for Eldrich who didn't post any moves.)

Going to investigate these little side happenings or just continue on with your main missions?

Now what?

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

With Serena and Blackout seated on her back, Menagerie begins to swim toward their destination. They are approaching Shelter Island and the mouth of the San Diego River when she notes something strange.

Swimming closer, it proves to be a ship full of armed men in combat with a flying metahuman! "Look!" she says, pointing a flipper in the direction of the conflict that her passengers have no doubt already noticed. "I think we need to find out what's going on here.

"I'll swim closer. Blackout, perhaps you should do the talking for us." Menagerie swims to a point roughly half-way between the ship and the waves beneath the flying metahuman.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

As the group closes in on Shelter Island, they can see a large shipyard and dock up ahead. Flashes in the sky can't help but attract their attention.

Up ahead there is a glowing, costumed man flying in the sky! He's hovering over a cargo ship and firing energy blasts down on those on deck! In response, the crew of the ship are firing automatic weapons back.

The man has black hair and wears a multi-colored costume consisting of white, red, and green. As you watch, he fires an energy blast that takes down one of the armed crewmen.

Swimming closer, it proves to be a ship full of armed men in combat with a flying metahuman! "Look!" she says, pointing a flipper in the direction of the conflict that her passengers have no doubt already noticed. "I think we need to find out what's going on here.

"I'll swim closer. Blackout, perhaps you should do the talking for us." Menagerie swims to a point roughly half-way between the ship and the waves beneath the flying metahuman.

"Why?" Blackout asks, a smile betraying his intentions, "I think you would be wonderful as our spokesperson in this situation."

The situation seems odd. Blackout does not know of many cargo ships that carry a contingent of armed men. Not unless they don't want any boarders. Of course, the costumed man could easily be a villian as well. The situation could turn from ugly to worse if they were to decide the three of them were a common threat.

"Do you recognize anything familiar about any of them, especially the costumed individual?" Blackout asks Menagerie. He will try to determine if all the weaponry is the same, like for example, standard U.S. military issue, or if it is a ragtag assortment that a group of thugs and petty criminals would gather up to use.

If no answers seem forthcoming, Blackout will clear his throat and call out to all participants, "What goes on here? Do you need assistance?" He keeps the questions vague so as hopes to learn more of the true nature of what's transpiring.

Just in case, Blackout is ready to activate his globe of darkness to make them harder to hit should it come to that.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite

Flying over Horton Plaza brings back memories of the prior day though he quickly realizes what has been done is done and to make the best of the what is.

Two figures in eccentric armor are soon seen, “ Goldy! Let’s check this out.” he says to his companion as he motions in their direction.
They are soon met by something that would seem out of Shakespeare. “Who goes there!", the man calls out. "Be you friend or foe? Are you responsible for unleashing the enchantment that I am sensing?"

“It would be the Vigilant! And that my friend is up to you.” Landing far enough away but being within ear shot. He quickly remembers the breifing earlier….”You wouldn’t happen to be the Paladin would you?” he counters.
“ What enchantment are you speaking of? You don’t mean the cold do you?”

[Backlash]

Backlash

And so the pair head into San Diego. Tesla simply flies, while Backlash covers ground in large leaps once he reaches the mainland. However, they don't go more than three blocks before stumbling onto an ongoing battle.

A unit of army soldiers, complete with a tank, are engaging the man-beast known as the Monster! The horrific figure is more than holding his own against the onslaught of the army weapons. He picks up a car and hurtles it at the troops!

Landing nearby he leaps yet again and lands 3 blocks on a roof top. The mistakable sound of gunfire is heard nearby. Investigating a super known as the monster is fighting a unit of Military. “So much for attracting the Army.” he says with a shrug to Tesla

The Super soon picks up a car and tosses it at the Army personal causing Backlash to act on impulse. Going full Density He will leap to intercept the car, catching it if he can, if not merely crush it beneath him. If he crushes the car he will turn to the Monster and say,"Now Why don't ya try that on someone your own size?"
If he catches the car he will merely place it down beside him.

[Tilt-A-Whirl]

Tilt-A-Whirl:

Once in the Downtown area, Tilt begins to happily explore. Several army units are encountered, but she easily avoids them. However, there seems to be trouble at one of the army checkpoints nearby. A van that has obviously had armor added to it just ran the blockade and is speeding into the militarized zone! The soldiers fire upon it, but the bullets are stopped by the armor for the most part.

The armored van rapidly speeds away, rounds a corner, and is out of sight.

"ohthat'ssocool!" Tilt says to herself, sputtering with excitement, "they'refilmingtheA-Teamrighthere!"

She will look around quickly for film cameras, but then speed away, eager to catch up with the speeding van. Tilt will run up next to the driver's side, looking for one of the actors she might recognize from the TV show. Even if she doesn't, she will still smile and wave at the driver, seeing if she can get him to look and wave back.

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Landing nearby he leaps yet again and lands 3 blocks on a roof top. The mistakable sound of gunfire is heard nearby. Investigating a super known as the monster is fighting a unit of Military. “So much for attracting the Army.” he says with a shrug to Tesla

"Yeah," Tesla simply replies, spinning in mid-air to face off against the Monster. She wonders if they will be shot at as well if they try to help.

Backlash throws himself into the fray, so it's too late to worry about such things. Tesla will move to a good vantage point and tag the Monster with an electrical blast. "Might as well introduce ourselves properly," she says as the blast is fired.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

And we're off! Goldstar carries Frosty back to the place where it all started, the Horton Plaza. Goldie was 'born' here just two days ago and she remembers it like it was yesterday, because it almost was yesterday, but they day before.

Something gets Frosty's attention down below.

Two figures in eccentric armor are soon seen, " Goldy! Let's check this out." he says to his companion as he motions in their direction.

"OOOHHH!", Goldstar says upon seeing the pair. "They look like friends of Lady Serena. I wonder if that's how they came to be here?"

Goldstar is content to let Frosty do the talking with these two. But she will add in her usual cheerful voice, "Hi! I'm Goldstar! Are you friends of Serena?"

[Serena]

Serena:


The Knight enjoys the challenge of facing a winged swordsman. It's not something she's had much experience with before and it adds a whole new dimension to a battle.

"My thanks", Serena will humbly say. "I've spent many an hour honing my skills with the blade. I see no reason why we can't spare here in the designated workout area. Is that not its function."

Archangel's ulterior motives are completely lost on Serena.


Later its off on Lily's back as we sail back to the Foundry. The Knight could have sworn that we're moving away from our destination, but does not voice her concerns. Lily is from this strange land and must know what she is doing.

There's something happening up ahead.

Swimming closer, it proves to be a ship full of armed men in combat with a flying metahuman! "Look!" she says, pointing a flipper in the direction of the conflict that her passengers have no doubt already noticed. "I think we need to find out what's going on here.

"I'll swim closer. Blackout, perhaps you should do the talking for us." Menagerie swims to a point roughly half-way between the ship and the waves beneath the flying metahuman.

"Why?" Blackout asks, a smile betraying his intentions, "I think you would be wonderful as our spokesperson in this situation."

"Do you recognize anything familiar about any of them, especially the costumed individual?" Blackout asks Menagerie. He will try to determine if all the weaponry is the same, like for example, standard U.S. military issue, or if it is a ragtag assortment that a group of thugs and petty criminals would gather up to use.

"Nay", Serena answers. "They are strangers to my eyes."

Serena's hand will move to the hilt of Blessed Salvation, but she will not draw her sword just yet. Instead, she'll wait to here the response to Blackout's query, but she will defend herself and her companions if they are attacked.

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

"Why?" Blackout asks, a smile betraying his intentions, "I think you would be wonderful as our spokesperson in this situation."

"Very funny," Menagerie replies. "I doubt most people are accustomed to dealing with a talking killer whale."

"Do you recognize anything familiar about any of them, especially the costumed individual?" Blackout asks Menagerie.

"To be honest, no. I've never really kept up on metahuman affairs, so I don't have a good knowledge of those in the area. We'll proabably just have to go by how each side responds."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Roll Call: Blackout, Menagerie, and Serena

En route to the San Diego River, the heroes have come across a combat on the deck of a cargo ship. A costumed man hovers overhead, blasting armed me on deck with some type of energy.

Blackout focuses his attention to the weapons the crew is using and finds them to be of a variety of types. Mostly rifles with handguns thrown in.

If no answers seem forthcoming, Blackout will clear his throat and call out to all participants, "What goes on here? Do you need assistance?" He keeps the questions vague so as hopes to learn more of the true nature of what's transpiring.

The flying man pauses to eye the new arrivals as he dodges bullets. He flies closer but makes no threatening moves.

"I am the Guiding Light", the man pronounces. "I have come to this wretched place to stop these heathens for distributing their foul chemicals upon the unsuspecting flock! I do God's work and if you are true believers than I would be immensely pleased to have your assistance. Join me that so that these criminals get the divine retribution that so justly deserve!"

None of you have ever heard of any super called the Guiding Light.


Roll Call: Frostbite and Goldstar

Flying over Horton's Plaza, a pair of individuals are spotted on the rooftop. They are a man in white armor and a woman dressed in white. The heroes fly closer.

"It would be the Vigilant! And that my friend is up to you." Landing far enough away but being within ear shot. He quickly remembers the briefing earlier. "You wouldn't happen to be the Paladin would you?" he counters.

"I am he who is known as the Paladin", the armored man intones. "Yes, I have heard of the Vigilant from the news reports about this great disaster. I bid you welcome, friends! This is my companion, Lady Virtuous."

The woman in white curtsey's upon being introduced. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Goldstar is content to let Frosty do the talking with these two. But she will add in her usual cheerful voice, "Hi! I'm Goldstar! Are you friends of Serena?"

"I am unfamiliar with any Serena, so no, we are not."

"What enchantment are you speaking of? You don't mean the cold do you?"

"Ah," the Paladin says in realization. "Then our meeting is a simple chance encounter. My companion and I have come to lend our aid to this embattled city. As we grew nearer, my lady did since the strong presence of magic."

"Anyone sensitive to such a thing would have felt it", Lady Virtuous adds. "I felt it over ten miles away. The enchantment is strong and powerful."

"Thus did we come to this place in search of the source of magic", Paladin continues. "What brings you here, my new friends?"

[GM Mad]

Roll Call: Backlash and Tesla

While on a mission to locate the mysterious Armstrong, two of the newer Vigilant have come across the reanimated Monster attacking the Army! The Monster is a villain of epic proportions whom everyone has at least heard of. He's even more horrifying in person!

The Monster stands a solid 6'6" in height and is incredibly muscular. He wears dark clothing with an equally dark tattered cape and a matching hat. What is most horrifying is that his skin is sickly green in color and his face has an almost skull-like appearance to it. His eyes glow a bloody red.

As if that wasn't bad enough, just two days ago the Monster was slain by Killer Frost. Apparently he got better!

As the heroes watch, the Monster picks up a car and flings it at the Army forces!

Backlash increases his density and attempts to intercept the fast moving missile, but misses it. Instead he lands some thirty feet before the Monster and the car slams into the Armies tank, causing it to veer off course.

Tesla flies in and introduces herself with a blast of electricity. Incredibly it misses the Monster. In spite of the villains large, bulky appearance, he is very fast!

The Monster lets out an evil laugh and just glares at the heroes as if daring them to attack.


(The Monster did a Presence attack there. Tesla scored an equal to defense result while Backlash came in at a +10 result. There's also a picture of the Monster in the Rogue's Gallery in the main portion of the website.)


Roll Call: Tilt-A-Whirl

While scouting for trouble in Downtown San Diego, Tilt has found it! A heavily armored van has breached a security checkpoint and is speeding into the militarized zone. The soldiers fire on the vehicle but its armor fends the bullets off.

Tilt pauses for a moment looking for any TV cameras, but finds them. She speeds up and gives chase to the van. The young speedster quickly catches up the vehicle.

Peaking inside she is disappointed to not find any members of the A-Team. Instead is it men in army fatigues wearing ski-masks! She waves at the driver after getting his attention. He stares at Tilt in disbelief before half-heartedly waving back.

Tilt's presence is made known to the rest of the men in the van. Unexpectedly, the point of an Uzi machine gun is stuck out the window and its fired at Tilt!

She easily avoids the hail of bullets, but has to veer away from the fleeing van. It continues to drive along the deserted streets of Downtown San Diego.


Now what?

[Menagerie]

Menagerie:

"I am the Guiding Light", the man pronounces. "I have come to this wretched place to stop these heathens for distributing their foul chemicals upon the unsuspecting flock! I do God's work and if you are true believers than I would be immensely pleased to have your assistance. Join me that so that these criminals get the divine retribution that so justly deserve!"

Lily listens to the man's words. Clearly, he believes himself to be doing God's work, and if what he said is true, then there is little doubt that he is. "Did he just say that they are smuggling drugs?" she asks the riders on her back.

She pauses to consider the issue of getting Blackout and Serena onto the ship. "If I get you to the side of the ship, can you make your way to the deck? Or do you both want me to fly you up?" It may be time to shift to dragon-form once again...

[Tilt-A-Whirl]

Tilt-A-Whirl:

Peaking inside she is disappointed to not find any members of the A-Team. Instead is it men in army fatigues wearing ski-masks! She waves at the driver after getting his attention. He stares at Tilt in disbelief before half-heartedly waving back.

Tilt's presence is made known to the rest of the men in the van. Unexpectedly, the point of an Uzi machine gun is stuck out the window and its fired at Tilt!

"wellthatwasjustplainrude!" Tilt exclaims as she scampers away from the gunfire as fast as her feet can carry her, which is quite fast!

Disappointed, shocked and a little irritated at their rudeness, Tilt knows these men are up to no good. She will follow the van at a discreet distance, seeing where it might be going. Once it finally stops and expels the men inside, she will decide what to do depending on where they are and how many of them there are.

[Frostbite]

Frostbite

"I am he who is known as the Paladin", the armored man intones. "Yes, I have heard of the Vigilant from the news reports about this great disaster. I bid you welcome, friends! This is my companion, Lady Virtuous."

“I am Frostbite. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance.”
"Our intelligence mentioned you during our briefing, though I didn’t think we would run into you."

"Ah," the Paladin says in realization. "Then our meeting is a simple chance encounter. My companion and I have come to lend our aid to this embattled city. As we grew nearer, my lady did since the strong presence of magic."

"Anyone sensitive to such a thing would have felt it", Lady Virtuous adds. "I felt it over ten miles away. The enchantment is strong and powerful."

"Thus did we come to this place in search of the source of magic", Paladin continues. "What brings you here, my new friends?"

Gathering what the warrior couple has stated Frostbite replies, “We are here to find a being whom, much like I do, can control ice and lower the temperature around her. From our reports an armed forces unit fell victim to her icy embrace and perished.”

“I’m no expert on anything magical but the magic force that you may have felt may have happened yesterday.” He calmly states.” Yesterday, A group of supervillians took several hostages and began some sort of ritual. To what purpose I do not know, but I have it(white out effect) to thank for my present condition.”

If Frosty is right he will direct the couple to where the ritual took place.

[Backlash]

Backlash

Backlash increases his density and attempts to intercept the fast moving missile, but misses it. Instead he lands some thirty feet before the Monster and the car slams into the Armies tank, causing it to veer off course.

As he sails through the air, Backlash sees the car missile fly by him. He lands with a curse as he watches the car slam into the tank causing it to veer off course. At least it didn’t get to damaged.

Turning his head back at the Monster the menace let’s out a evil laugh almost daring him to attack. The hero stares at the monster for a few moments the grits his teeth at the super being before him.

“Alright I’ll bite.” he says to himself as the creature breathes and just glares at him.
Backlash will calmly walk toward him while keeping his guard up. As he does so he raises his left hand and motions the Monster to come to him. If the Monster bites and comes to him Backlash will remain defensive till he is hit.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

"I am the Guiding Light", the man pronounces. "I have come to this wretched place to stop these heathens for distributing their foul chemicals upon the unsuspecting flock! I do God's work and if you are true believers than I would be immensely pleased to have your assistance. Join me that so that these criminals get the divine retribution that so justly deserve!"

"This guy can't be all that bad then," Blackout says, "if God is backing him."

She pauses to consider the issue of getting Blackout and Serena onto the ship. "If I get you to the side of the ship, can you make your way to the deck? Or do you both want me to fly you up?" It may be time to shift to dragon-form once again...

"Get us close enough, and I can get Serena and myself up there," Blackout replies. He pulls out his throwing rod and unhinges the end that holds his swinging line. Turning to Serena, he extends his hand. "I'll need you to hold on tight," he tells her.

Once they are close enough, Blackout will throw the rod to wrap around the ship railing and then run in the opposite direction. He will leap up into the air and twirl his body around, holding one arm tight around Serena's waist (if she accepts of course). As he turns, he will kick his feet up as if he was on a swing to gain some height with the intent to land on the deck of the ship.

[Tesla]

Tesla:

Tesla flies in and introduces herself with a blast of electricity. Incredibly it misses the Monster. In spite of the villains large, bulky appearance, he is very fast!

The Monster lets out an evil laugh and just glares at the heroes as if daring them to attack.

"Hmmm," Tesla mutters, pretty impressed by her foe's agility. Pretty intimidating too, but she remembers some of her drill instructors..

Backlash will calmly walk toward him while keeping his guard up. As he does so he raises his left hand and motions the Monster to come to him. If the Monster bites and comes to him Backlash will remain defensive till he is hit.

Not sure exactly if Backlash is being overly brave or foolish, Tesla holds off, seeing what the Monster will do. She prepares another electrical blast and will follow up with her attack regardless if Backlash gets flattened or he pummels the Monster.

[Goldstar]

Goldstar:

Goldstar listens as Frostbite speaks to the White Knight and the Lady in White. "How nice it is to meet folks who don't want to fight you right off the bat!"

Goldie will follow along as Frosty shows the new arrivals to where the ritual took place. She'll offer to carry them if then don't have their own way to reach our destination.

[Serena]

Serena:

"I am the Guiding Light", the man pronounces. "I have come to this wretched place to stop these heathens for distributing their foul chemicals upon the unsuspecting flock! I do God's work and if you are true believers than I would be immensely pleased to have your assistance. Join me that so that these criminals get the divine retribution that so justly deserve!"

"This guy can't be all that bad then," Blackout says, "if God is backing him."

The Knight listens as the flying man speaks of serving God. A smile comes to her face as she can relate the man and his mission. Blessed Salvation is drawn and ready to block any attacks these desperate criminals may send her way.

"I too am a follower of divine justice! I would be pleased to assist you in his holy endeavor! We shall join you momentarily fellow Crusader!"

She pauses to consider the issue of getting Blackout and Serena onto the ship. "If I get you to the side of the ship, can you make your way to the deck? Or do you both want me to fly you up?" It may be time to shift to dragon-form once again...

"Get us close enough, and I can get Serena and myself up there," Blackout replies. He pulls out his throwing rod and unhinges the end that holds his swinging line. Turning to Serena, he extends his hand. "I'll need you to hold on tight," he tells her.

"I thank you for your offer and consideration, my friend", Serena tells Blackout, "but it will not be necessary. I am not without means of gaining entry to his vessel."

Once Lily has swum close enough to the ship, Serena will run forward and leap feet first towards the hull. Her magical boots stick to the side of the boat and Serena will dash up to the main deck and the criminals awaiting there.

[Blackout]

Blackout:

"I thank you for your offer and consideration, my friend", Serena tells Blackout, "but it will not be necessary. I am not without means of gaining entry to his vessel."

"Very well then," Blackout replies with a bow and a flourish, "ladies first." The last said between lips forming a playful grin.

Blackout will still get on board using his original plan, only without the added weight of carrying Serena he should be able to acomplish the task much easier.

When he lands, he will be prepared to defend himself should any of the men onboard take a shot or swing at him.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed