Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 09, 2020, 10:51:33 pm
Don't die on me.
Keep breathing.
Please. Not you too.
A fan lazily cuts the dry air above you as your vision comes to a focus. Every bone in your body aches, and a stitch in your side makes breathing difficult. You make to sit up, but the effort makes your head swim and vision blur, so you remain laying.Keep breathing.
Please. Not you too.
Instead, your fingers dig into the rough fabric of the bed beneath you, grasping for purchase against the spins. When they fade, you look around, taking stock of the room around you.
Its a small room, cut from unfinished wood planks, with a single grimy window that leaks in the waning light. The only other furniture is a flat metal table touched with rust and a crude lamp beside the doorway. A jagged shard of metal, the size of your forearm sits on the table. Its tip darkened with crumbling reddish brown.
You suppress a shudder.
Sounds of labor carry through the doorway. You tense, and your body gives a protest.
What's there to be done?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 10, 2020, 12:16:28 am
Looks like somebody's had to dig that shard of metal out of our side for us. We're in no condition to do much of anything, so we'll just have to trust out apparent benefactor for now...
Rest.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2020, 12:39:04 am
A man bustles into the room, carrying a tray. Lanky, with a limp, he seems about middle-aged and hesitates when he notices you. He speaks in a low, placating tone, smiling with a bit of a downturn to his head. Deferential.
"Hey, buddy. How are you feeling? I'm Doc Mitchell. I'm the one who patched you up."
He sets the tray down beside you on the table. On it is a bowl of soup, some water in a cup, bandages, and a soft capsule. He hands you the soup, which you take with both hands with hesitation, and brusquely lifts your shirt above your bandages.
"Keep still- don't want to re-open your stitches, now do you? Be a good lass and eat your soup. Ain't nothing I haven't seen before." With that warning, he starts unraveling your bandages. He reveals a savage gash, wide as a thumb, and about five inches from hip to rib, hastily stitched.
"When they brought you in, I thought for sure you'd be dead by now." His eyes harden as he looks you up and down, hands deftly winding a bandage around your abdomen, "You had a severe skull fracture, more broken bones than whole ones and that shrapnel filling your guts. I couldn't even tell you how much blood you had left."
He gives the bandages a neat little knot, a hard look still in his eyes despite the smile. The soup smells delicious, like [rosemary] and [thyme] and a host of other earthy, hearty flavors — chunks of [protein] float within, beans and nubs of browned [bacon].
"Can you tell me your name, lass? Any idea how you got into that state?" You shake your head, and Doc Mitchell sighs. "If a name comes to you, let me know, but I bet you have questions."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
((Thank you! I've been a lurker for a while now, but haven't posted anything yet.))
Post by: Superdorf on February 10, 2020, 12:57:51 am
"No questions yet... thank you." Speak careful-like, so's not to hurt ourself with the talking.
We're safe here. No need for fear anymore. Finish eating, then let consciousness slip away for awhile if need be-- we could use the time to heal anyhow.
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2020, 02:08:14 am
"Lass". We know we're female, at least.+1
"No questions yet... thank you." Speak careful-like, so's not to hurt ourself with the talking.
We're safe here. No need for fear anymore. Finish eating, then let consciousness slip away for awhile if need be-- we could use the time to heal anyhow.
Post by: King Zultan on February 10, 2020, 02:12:14 am
+1"Lass". We know we're female, at least.+1
"No questions yet... thank you." Speak careful-like, so's not to hurt ourself with the talking.
We're safe here. No need for fear anymore. Finish eating, then let consciousness slip away for awhile if need be-- we could use the time to heal anyhow.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2020, 03:00:55 am
You turn your head from one side to the other. Then you shake it back and forth. Nothing happens. You run your hands over your arms, expecting the same ache that occurred previously, only to find the soreness gone now.
With a gentle touch, you prod the still clean bandage-- and wince as sharp pain lances through your side.
Everything can't be fixed so quickly, I suppose.
You rise to your feet, inching closer to the wall to catch more of the argument.
"Look, Mitchell...We had a deal. Anybody that can't pay your fees, you send to us. You haven't been sending many folks our way, friend." The other man's voice rises as he finishes.
"I'm sorry, I didn't know you wanted me to send you corpses." Mitchell snaps, "How about I send some of your men to you in chains? You never pay the damn fee."
The other man is silent, until, "Look, it's late. We're both tired. I'm going to come back tomorrow."
And that's it. The door slams, and you hear only heavy breathing from the next room, followed by something else slamming into the wall. You hear footsteps from the hallway.
What to do?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2020, 03:09:13 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2020, 06:36:34 am
You both stand in silence.
"You heard at least some of that conversation." While he speaks, he crosses his arms and sighs. His hand rests close to his holster, and he looks politely puzzled, giving you a small smile. "You really shouldn't be alive."
Then he begins to pace, in and out of the room, never really turning his back to you.
"I pulled six inches of solid steel from your guts. Your brain was leaking out of the back of your head, and your bones were in splinters!" His voice rises as he turns on his heels, facing you once again. "Do you know how long it took you to recover from that? Five days!"
His eyes gleam, and his scowl deepens. "This morning? That pill? Five times the dose to knock a two hundred pound raider on his ass! It makes you nap." He spits the word nap like venom.
"So, you know what I want to know? What -are- you? A [demon]? Some kind of [angel]? What the hell happened to you? Why are you here?"
Then, with that question, you notice it. The rambling speech with heavy breath. The hesitation in word choice. The way he keeps his trembling hand beside his gun.
"Well!?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on February 10, 2020, 08:16:57 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2020, 06:25:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2020, 07:09:46 pm
"Damn right you will," But Mitchell sighs and rubs his face at your answer. He relaxes, giving a simple nod at the answer, but he still has a hard look in his eyes. He gestures for you to follow and moves back into the main living area. Hesitantly, you wander after. Your first step is a little unsteady, but you regain your balance swiftly.
The small hallway opens up into a general living area, one made of curved, thin metal. A small wooden table with accompanying chairs sits in the corner, the surface covered with dirty dishes and empty bottles. A large bookshelf hides a wall, more books piled on the floor than within its shelves. The titles blur in your vision, before becoming apparent, and a vast majority of them are medical works. On the other side of the room is a cooking station, complete with a small fridge whose compressor labors loudly. "Take a seat. I still have some soup on the stove."
You do so, settling into the creaking wood without protest. He pulls a spoon off the wall and scoops soup into a thankfully clean bowl, passing it to you without a further word. He settles in across from you, still staring. Eventually, he grabs a green bottle from the table and takes a swig.
The smell of the soup is still divine, and you don't eat it so much as inhale it. You drain the last of the broth and have to stop yourself from licking the bowl, hunger still rolling your stomach.
"I found you on my doorstep. A local farmer dropped you off for me to perform funeral rites. Clean you up and incinerate you. Hell, I nearly did. You were an awful wreck, young lady." He takes a swig, "I wouldn't've known you were still alive if you didn't spit blood in my face."
"After that, I did the best I could for you. Stitched up your side, making you comfortable, doping you up. I waited for you to meet your [creator, maker, Non-Empyeral diety], but you never did."
The man takes another swig from the bottle, alcohol fumes wafting across the table. He rubs the neck of the container, staring at you, "I would've put a bullet in your head if I were younger. Given you mercy, but--" He shakes his head, lapsing into silence.
You stay silent, still taking in the room. A coat rack sits in the corner, hanging with a heavy duster and worn satchel with crooked calligraphy. You blink as the symbols blur, and another imposes itself upon it — a bright red cross. A lamp sitting in the corner illuminates the room, its bulb glowing bright blue.
"I caught up with the farmer after you pulled through the night. Its a small town, and the man was telling everyone about how he found you." Mitchell gives a bitter laugh, "He said you fell from the heavens. He was locking up his [horse, steed, mount] and saw a light in the sky, growing brighter, until it blew up in one of his fields."
"Said it made him find the [creator, maker, non-Empyeral]. He went to the temple to pray for hours after dropping you off. Probably shot his mouth off to the priest while he was it, then went to go forget all about it with some booze."
"I wouldn't have believed it, except by the time I got back, you looked less like a pile of meat in the shape of a girl and more like an actual person."
"You don't remember anything? Anything at all that could answer this?"
When you shake your head, he sighs. "I'm not one to believe, but seeing you recover is a goddamn miracle. Twenty years of being a doctor, and I ain't see anything like it."
"And now you're up, and walking around and holding conversations that aren't you gurgling blood. And now, we need to talk about my fees. Now, you were naked when you came in, so I'm sure you don't have any money. I've got an awful lot of work around the house I need doing, so you're going to help with that. Nurse work too. Two years ought to pay off what you owe." His eyes are hard and dark, and he states bluntly, "Otherwise, you could go with that slave-broker and work for the [warlord], but I'm sure you wouldn't like that, girl."
Something within you bristles at that, and you sit upright, fixing him with a glare as you snap. "If I'm going to be working with you, don't call me a girl like I'm a child."
He flinches at that, then gives a short laugh. "By the [maker], I thought your spine was broken."
Just then, there's a knock at the door, and Mitchell rises to his feet, walking over to it, the bottle still in hand. He pulls it open-- and flies back into the room, his chest exploding into gore. Mitchell's corpse thuds to the ground, his pistol clattering free beside him.
The sound of the shotgun drives you down to the ground, reverberating through the metal room with a deafening bang. Three men stand in the doorway, clad in dusters, face hidden behind [demon] masks. They look taken aback by your presence and hesitate.
Well then. What's next?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 10, 2020, 07:31:35 pm
Grab the gun.
Open fire.
Post by: Superdorf on February 10, 2020, 07:41:36 pm
We ain't human.
Combat roll.
Grab the gun.
Open fire.
+1
Aim for the masks. If we feel any magic angelic powers or whatever coming on, use them.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2020, 10:43:51 pm
The other two have slipped their guns out, trying to take aim, but in one smooth motion, you flip the switch on the safety and lift the firearm. Anger, rage, fury, all build within you as you breathe in. When you exhale, a short, halting breath, so does the firearm, and it takes that anger with it. The gun shudders in your hand, the microreactor flaring to life with all the fuel cell can muster
And your anger becomes the sun.
The blast melts away the barrel, the grip, everything up until the trigger-gaurd. They dissolve into the air. And so does the trio of bandits, along with half the house. The books behind you catch fire, along with Mitchell's corpse. The pressure change blows out the windows and sends the fridge through the wall, burning papers flying haphazardly about.
And in the middle of this instantaneous hell-storm, you sit, uneffected.
And there you sit, until it becomes unsafe to do so, the structure collapsing around you. You drag Mitchell out the front, the stitch in your side unbearable as you haul the dead man out the door. His house burns, slowly, at first, then all at once, brightly against the night sky.
It takes you a while to notice that dawn is breaking across the horizon, a rising heat in the air that has nothing to do with the smoldering remains of Doc Mitchell's house. You finally drop the handle of the melted gun, its micro-display flashing bright red symbols of warning.
Mitchell was dead before the blast, his chest turned to mush in an instant by the first shot. You exhale a shaky breath and examine yourself. The second shot winged your shoulder. That was enough to gouge out a chunk of flesh the size of your thumb and singe off some of your hair. It doesn't hurt, however, and is already scabbed over. Your side burns with pain, and blood has bloomed on the bandages. But most pressing of all is how weak you feel. Your stomach constantly growls.
You are -starving-.
Taking stock of your surroundings, a path leads off into the distance, towards some lightly wooded hills in the north. Dry mountains rise far away to the west, and the beginning of a rough sandy plain lies to the south. The house is burnt down, a pile of metal scrap and smoldering lumber. A windmill and a few solar panels lie a few meters away from the wreckage. The fridge lies outside of the ruins, A few meters away from that sits a bulky, man-sized incinerator.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 10, 2020, 11:00:37 pm
Search the fridge for edibles. Any edibles.
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2020, 11:01:55 pm
...yeah, we're an angel. At least, that's what I'm gonna go with until I learn otherwise.+1, but also search the ruins for any other items of use or of value.eat Mitchell
Search the fridge for edibles. Any edibles.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 11, 2020, 03:33:30 am
The inferno flares.
With that business done, you ransack the fridge. You devour whatever scraps and leftovers you can find. A whole ham, four boiled eggs, a wide variety of vegetables later, your stomach still rumbles with hunger, but you feel your strength returning.
The building isn't hard to search, as everything is on a horizontal plane at this point. A few pieces of metal give you trouble but are easily lifted away. Unfortunately, nothing much is left of use. In the kitchen, you find a burnt knife. There's a pair of boots that fit comfortably in what was the master bedroom, and the heavy duster by the door was blown outside with only minimal charring.
Running your hand over the fabric, you notice the material is not cloth, as you imagined, instead a heavy kevlar blend. Pads of heavy, meshed plastic cover vital areas of the body. While it doesn't fit comfortably on your thinner, smaller frame, rolling the sleeves up and adjusting the bottom does much to make it work. Once brown, its been charred black, and the kevlar is no longer as smooth as it once was.
And now there was only you and a desolate world.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
((From here on, public rolls will dictate survival or failure.))
Post by: ZBridges on February 11, 2020, 03:38:03 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 11, 2020, 04:54:55 am
Scatter Doc Mitchell's ashes on the ruins of his home. Say a few words to help him on his way to the Empyrean.+1
Post by: Failbird105 on February 11, 2020, 07:31:07 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 11, 2020, 10:32:13 am
In other news, I didn't notice before with all the excitement
Taking stock of your surroundings, a path leads off into the distance, towards some lightly wooded hills in the north. Dry mountains rise far away to the west, and the beginning of a rough sandy plain lies to the south.
but apparently we just kinda know which way we're facing on the compass. More magic? GM fiat? I dunno, but very useful regardless.
Scatter Doc Mitchell's ashes on the ruins of his home. Say a few words to help him on his way to the Empyrean.+1
+1
After that, let's head down that path over the hills and see if we can't find something resembling civilization. Civilization means edibles!
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 11, 2020, 10:35:02 am
So I guess angel magic takes a lot of calories to sustain.+1
In other news, I didn't notice before with all the excitementTaking stock of your surroundings, a path leads off into the distance, towards some lightly wooded hills in the north. Dry mountains rise far away to the west, and the beginning of a rough sandy plain lies to the south.
but apparently we just kinda know which way we're facing on the compass. More magic? GM fiat? I dunno, but very useful regardless.Scatter Doc Mitchell's ashes on the ruins of his home. Say a few words to help him on his way to the Empyrean.+1
+1
After that, let's head down that path over the hills and see if we can't find something resembling civilization. Civilization means edibles!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 11, 2020, 11:41:31 am
(I am so tempted to make a Sperm Whale Man)
what.
The furnace finishes its cycle, and you pop open the catch. Inside is a multitude of ashes, more than you can carry, and more that can come from just Doc Mitchell. You end up scooping up a handful of ashes and awkwardly scattering them over the ruins of his house. Most of it sticks to your hands, and you end up rubbing Doc Mitchell all over your pants.
"From dust and ashes I have called you, and to dust and ash you shall return." Those few words are about all you can muster, a vague memory of sincerity and honor. Of shared pain. "Thank you for your help. I hope you are at peace."
You turn towards the north, contemplating. There's a slight pressure flowing, almost like a breeze, or small pulse of energy. You assumed this meant that those were the poles and didn't question it. There is no such energy from the east and west, except for what spreads from the north. You put it out of your mind, and with one final look at the charred remains of Doc Mitchell's life, you set out on the trail.
[5]The boots are uncomfortable on the rough gravel path, ill-fitting as they are. But the time passes quickly as you lose yourself in vague thought. Mostly about food. About half an hour later, or near as much as you can tell, you take a rest. Not out of any need to rest, you feel as if you could walk for a long time, but more to take in a view from one of the hills.
The land is a multitude of browns and light greens, broken by hardy [cypress-analogues] that stay crouched low against the billowing wind. A few small streams dot the country-side, flowing down from the mountain ranges, carving out rocky valleys from the rough, dark stone. The mid-day humidity is oppressive, and the duster doesn't help much. Clouds form in response to the rising heat.
[...]
The trail winds across the sides of hills, and you come to a crest of a valley.
Nestled around an electric well lies a small village. Most of the houses are metal and wood shanties, but a few more significant buildings dot the layout. The three structures all look similar, probably made from the same kit. The first has a bottle in garish neon, the haphazard scrawl adjusting itself for you to read 'Hausman's Public Haus." The second is a more somber structure. It bears no label or name. The third sits next to a mine dug into the wall of the valley. It belches smoke into the air, with laborers milling about their daily tasks.
The gravel footpath gives way to one sealed with tar as you make your way into town. A few people, dressed conservatively in browns and grey, give you a wide berth as you pass them. You realize that you stick out like a sore thumb in the duster. When you arrive at the village square, you notice the market, clustering around the well.
The big, unmarked building, you realize, is a church or temple of some kind. Its doors are lodged open, and the inside is brightly lit, but dull, consisting of wooden benches and motifs too far away for detail.
The market is filled with vendors, all clustering their stalls around immense beasts with bright white fur, four legs, and curling horns. The sizes vary from man-sized to absolutely massive, nearly as big as two stalls combined. The shopkeeps call out to the crowd, showing off their wares. Guns, food, spices, cloth, keepsakes, knick-knack, and brick-a-brack all abound. One thing that catches your eyes is a mask salesman, hawking off cheap plastic masks, demons and bugs-- you shudder.
The public house is further away from the square, but crowds of people surround it, mingling in tight, quiet groups.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 11, 2020, 11:54:34 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 11, 2020, 10:29:04 pm
You notice that in the center of the room, beyond a table, sits a plinth holding a gold and iron sphere. Writing of a religious nature wraps its way around the top to the bottom. You can understand it, you know, but it is too far away to read.
"I'm Brother John, it's a pleasure to meet you, miss...?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 11, 2020, 10:56:32 pm
"...Phoebe."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 11, 2020, 10:58:49 pm
Ahh-hm, what's a fitting name here...+1 ask about the religion of the church, if allowed, get closer to the sphere to read it
"...Phoebe."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 11, 2020, 11:18:29 pm
[|]The smile drains from his face, and he looks confused. "About, about our religion?" He forces a laugh, but there is concern upon his features. "You're joking, I'm sure."
When you don't burst out into laughter or give any sign of a jest, his concern only grows. His body tenses, brow furrowing. "Didn't your parents teach you anything? When was the last time a preacher visited you? Were you given first rites? Where were you born?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 11, 2020, 11:28:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 12, 2020, 12:44:50 am
John looks suspicious, but [15] nods. "That's fair, I apologize for jumping to conclusions, I'm somewhat new to the borderlands."
"Could you start from the beginning? I've only really heard parts and pieces, never the full story."
Long ago, the land was barren and cold. Until the Seed found it. It ripped off its wings, cut out its stomach, and fell to the earth. It [died, long-sleep, rest], but the world awakened. It grew forth great bounty. Soon, too soon, humanity awoke, and the Sleeping Seed spoke. It taught us many things, turning us from beasts into a civilization. It showed us how to work the land for food, how to work steel and gear, how to build and craft, and play music. It showed us many works of art it had dreamed of. Worlds that it crafted to test us.
Many, many things of wonder. We built a city upon its tomb and spread out across the land. But the further from its grace, the worse the earth is, so we must study what the Seed allows us to carry out his eternal work.
The globe is encircled with many words; "...steel, electronics, holy weapons..." It lists a great many of these things, but the gist is skills or complicated processes.
He pauses, catching your gaze on the globe. He smiles widely, explaining, "Ah yes, The Language of His Holy Scholars. I was taught to read it as an apprentice. It is a truly difficult scrip to master."
It's archaic, but you understand it better than the language upon the books at Doc Mitchell's house. It doesn't cause your eyes to strain that hard, or make your head feel like its humming. Going with the flow, you take the obvious bait, "What does it mean?"
"That is a shortened list of many things the Seed has taught us. We carry his concepts with us on our missionary work, so that all may realize what he has done for us."
Then there were the demons. The fell from the sky, cruel men and women who ripped apart the earth. At first, they pillaged and raided. Then they began to grow more and more wicked. They raised the dead, corrupting the lands and themselves in the proccess. They destroyed much of the area to the west of the holy city, reaching the gates. But the Seed made his anger manifest, and this sacred avatar slaughtered the King of the Dead, a great serpent beast with twisting tentacles and wicked claws.
The battles lasted hundreds of years, sieges lasting literal generations.
You're close to crying by the end of it. Fleeting emotions that don't feel like they're genuinely yours. A mixed bag of anger, sadness, and regret. A cold burn of genuine hatred grows, lighting a fire in your belly. [0 vs. 20]
"And they were put to the fire. Scourged from existence with a burning hatred that wiped away every trace of corruption. Not even dust remained to interrupt the Great Work." You speak without thinking, finishing the priest's sentence.
"Your translation is off, but you have a good grasp of the scholar's tongue. Was it one of your parents? Odd they didn't teach you more." But he beams at you with genuine happiness. Only noticing the night falling on the town when the rain begins to patter on the glass of the high windows, "Do you have a place to stay, Pheobe? I can't deny the children of my siblings a place to rest for the night. I can make you up a cot near the fireplace with some of the apprentices."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 12, 2020, 12:52:19 am
I'm beginning to develop a theory for the bracketed word-bundles that turn up sometimes-- [died, long-sleep, rest] [creator, maker, non-Empyeral], and some of the shorter ones like [protein] and [angel]. Could be wrong, but I think the brackets are used to indicate words that have no exact English translation-- implying that whatever we've been speaking, it's not English.
Perhaps we'll learn more about that later.
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 12, 2020, 01:41:36 am
Ask him about any rumors, news or gossip, this should give us information on things nearby without it making it look like we are ignorant completely. Explain that we have been traveling for a while and need to keep going for a bit longer until we are done. Thank him for the offer but decline for now.
Post by: ZBridges on February 12, 2020, 01:45:04 am
"That'd be lovely, thank you!"+1
I'm beginning to develop a theory for the bracketed word-bundles that turn up sometimes-- [died, long-sleep, rest] [creator, maker, non-Empyeral], and some of the shorter ones like [protein] and [angel]. Could be wrong, but I think the brackets are used to indicate words that have no exact English translation-- implying that whatever we've been speaking, it's not English.
Perhaps we'll learn more about that later.
Post by: King Zultan on February 12, 2020, 07:00:47 am
I think we can risk spending the night. It'll allow us be on top of our game tomorrow to deal with any and all threats that come our way.+1"That'd be lovely, thank you!"+1
I'm beginning to develop a theory for the bracketed word-bundles that turn up sometimes-- [died, long-sleep, rest] [creator, maker, non-Empyeral], and some of the shorter ones like [protein] and [angel]. Could be wrong, but I think the brackets are used to indicate words that have no exact English translation-- implying that whatever we've been speaking, it's not English.
Perhaps we'll learn more about that later.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 12, 2020, 07:04:54 am
"Suffice it to say, I have lived a sheltered life. While I of course am familiar with the basics, I was hoping to hear your unique insight on the matter as a religious specialist."+1
Post by: Superdorf on February 12, 2020, 11:17:30 am
"Suffice it to say, I have lived a sheltered life. While I of course am familiar with the basics, I was hoping to hear your unique insight on the matter as a religious specialist."+1
...We said that already.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 12, 2020, 02:56:10 pm
No we didn’t, we asked what the religion was, this is the difference between asking what Norse paganism is and asking what they think about Odin or Loki"Suffice it to say, I have lived a sheltered life. While I of course am familiar with the basics, I was hoping to hear your unique insight on the matter as a religious specialist."+1
...We said that already.
Post by: ZBridges on February 12, 2020, 03:00:38 pm
No we didn’t, we asked what the religion was, this is the difference between asking what Norse paganism is and asking what they think about Odin or Loki"Suffice it to say, I have lived a sheltered life. While I of course am familiar with the basics, I was hoping to hear your unique insight on the matter as a religious specialist."+1
...We said that already.
To clarify, the action you added a +1 to has already been carried out (verbatim) in a recent update. It doesn't make sense to say the exact same thing again in this context.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 12, 2020, 03:07:34 pm
Oh, oops. I will look for the update. Sorry for missing itNo we didn’t, we asked what the religion was, this is the difference between asking what Norse paganism is and asking what they think about Odin or Loki"Suffice it to say, I have lived a sheltered life. While I of course am familiar with the basics, I was hoping to hear your unique insight on the matter as a religious specialist."+1
...We said that already.
To clarify, the action you added a +1 to has already been carried out (verbatim) in a recent update. It doesn't make sense to say the exact same thing again in this context.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 12, 2020, 03:13:48 pm
+1 cancel previousI think we can risk spending the night. It'll allow us be on top of our game tomorrow to deal with any and all threats that come our way.+1"That'd be lovely, thank you!"+1
I'm beginning to develop a theory for the bracketed word-bundles that turn up sometimes-- [died, long-sleep, rest] [creator, maker, non-Empyeral], and some of the shorter ones like [protein] and [angel]. Could be wrong, but I think the brackets are used to indicate words that have no exact English translation-- implying that whatever we've been speaking, it's not English.
Perhaps we'll learn more about that later.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 13, 2020, 12:15:54 am
"I need to go consult the Mother. She has the final say, of course." He leaves you through a backdoor in the church.
You rise from the pew and inch closer to the globe, going behind the table. Manuscripts lie across the surface, haphazardly strewn. You pay them no mind, getting closer to the orb. Its gold leaf over a hollow aluminum sphere. The steel previously seen is wrought around it in a tight chain of plaques and words. You realize that were it not so cumbersome; you could probably carry it right out the front door. You'd be unlikely to find a buyer with such a thing having more cultural value than actual worth.
You start away as the backdoor swings open, and an older woman stumps out, leaning heavily on a cane. She walks with a pronounced limp, her eyes fixed in a stern countenance. Set on you appraisingly. You give a weak smile, and she does not return it.
"So this is the whelp then, John. She looks like some raider trash." She sniffs disapprovingly, coming to a stop very close to you, catching you off-guard. She has one of her gnarled hands in her pocket-- and you feel your eyes glance there-- [8] ah, too late to stop. Worse still, she notices.
"What, girl? You think a priest needs a gun?"
She wears an icy smile, looking you up and down. She reaches out, tapping the globe with her cane. It lands on a word there, 'vehicles.'
"What's that say, girl? And what does it mean?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 13, 2020, 12:55:31 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 13, 2020, 02:28:07 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 13, 2020, 02:32:35 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 13, 2020, 09:19:22 am
“It says vehicles. Vehicle is a name for a large metal object used for transportation”+1
Post by: Superdorf on February 13, 2020, 01:02:52 pm
Hmm. What are the benefits and disadvantages of telling her what we know?
I ain't seeing any disadvantage right now, truth be told. If she takes a shine to us, we get a place to stay! Simple as that.
I'm not suggesting a particular answer right now, because I suspect there's some hidden meaning to this we the players wouldn't know. Still...
“It says vehicles. Vehicle is a name for a large metal object used for transportation”+1
...if nothing more fitting comes to mind, we might as well say this.
Post by: ZBridges on February 14, 2020, 12:24:54 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 14, 2020, 12:33:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 14, 2020, 12:51:53 am
[15]"Your translation is off." The Mother is quick to reply but taps her cane on another of the words. You describe it in the best possible detail. She does this with many, many words. There's a faint nod with each concept you state, and Brother John looks crestfallen by the end of it.
"You're a smart girl-- you've memorized more words than Brother John probably has." Her cold smile still twists her face into something menacing. She gestures at one of the words with her cane, and you glance at it. 'Vehicle.'
[13 vs. 12]Her blow catches you off guard, as she strikes you hard across the face with the cane. Anger follows the pain as you stumble into a defensive position, lifting your arms to ward away another blow as you square your hips. The Mother leans on her cane and watches in silence, the smile gone. "Know how to fight too. Keep your head attached."
"Mother Nicole, I must--" John begins, hurrying to your side. She cuts him off in an instant.
"Don't you Mother Nicole me," She spits, glaring at John, "We need tough people, not just smart ones. If she can't handle a love-tap from an old woman, then she won't be able to handle anything we throw at her. She's smarter than you, tougher too, perceptive, and a damn good liar. Don't patronize her with your sympathy."
You sit in stunned and surprised silence, and when you open your mouth to retort, she cuts you off too.
"I'd apologize, but let's call that sparring for now. We'll deal with whatever petty emotional baggage you might have from that later. Let's talk business over dinner, Pheobe." Its the first time Mother Nicole uses your name.
Hunger getting the better of the anger, you silently agree.
They lead you to a backroom with a metal table set with food. Steaming loaves of bread, simmering stews and soups, and a warm, sweet smell from the center of the table overwhelm your willpower. You take a seat and get down to business.
The bread is soft, with chunks of potato mixed in. It's warm though, freshly baked, and tasting of heavenly salt. You plow through two loaves. The soup is softer still, but still has a delicious heaviness to it. You recognize the odd gamey, white meat as the [protein] you ate previously, as well as the beans and other herbs. It fills your belly after just a bowl.
Next, the carve you a section of the [apple] tart. It isn't as sweet as you like, but with a heaping of sour cream, it crowns the dinner off wonderfully.
And it's after your thorough appreciation of their hospitality do they speak. Mostly Mother Nicole, while Brother John nods beside her. She launches into a spiel, one that she's told before, but you notice subtle variations and actual interest.
"I'd like to ask you to join the scholars. I can't promise every meal a feast as good as this, but you won't starve." She eyes your empty plate with the ghost of a real smile. She takes a sip from her glass, "Lots of bread and jerky, but you haven't eaten anything in a long time, have you?"
You grin warily. This morning was a long time ago, at least when it comes to food.
"Plus an education, and a trade. You're what? Fourteen, fifteen?" Something inside of you bristles, but you suppress the emotion. "You could reach elder status in the next ten years if that. Wouldn't your parents want that?"
"Surely, not ten years, Mother, it took me--" Brother John begins, only for her to cut him off.
"She knows more of the Scholar's tongue than you, and she's twenty years younger." The reply is sharp, crisp, and carefully aimed. Brother John visibly deflates. "Would you be a dear Child and clear up for me? Thank you, Child John."
He looks a little sad as he begins to clear the table, leaving you and the Mother alone.
"I'm serious. The opportunities we can provide for you are endless. The dangers minimal-- " Perhaps Mother Nicole notices your disinterest, or perhaps its the wine talking, but she's grinning now. "Or maybe you're the type of young woman who wants some danger in her life. Wants to feel the rush of adrenaline as she struggles to survive. The McCreary Crusader Force can provide that."
"For what?"
"Secrecy. Loyalty. Your strengths." Mother Nicole looks amused, "You never teach what we give you to others without permission. You obey your superiors when we ask. You give us that strength of will and intelligence, and we give you knowledge and shared purpose. There's a contract you'll sign. You'll receive a last name to sign it with, usually the name of your sponsor. You'll take mine."
[6]She finishes with a gentle implication while grinning a wolf's grin, "It's dangerous out there for the lonely scholar. Raiders and slavers abound. Knowing as much as you know, if anybody was looking through the front door, they would have found a very valuable mark."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 14, 2020, 01:16:52 am
Express interest. Try and find out more about the contract, the induction process... and what exactly our "superiors" would be asking of us.
Post by: ZBridges on February 14, 2020, 01:19:03 am
This seems to me like the best chance at a stable life we'll be getting any time soon! I'm inclined to go for it, but I want to know first what we're getting into.+1
Express interest. Try and find out more about the contract, the induction process... and what exactly our "superiors" would be asking of us.
Post by: King Zultan on February 14, 2020, 05:11:43 am
+1This seems to me like the best chance at a stable life we'll be getting any time soon! I'm inclined to go for it, but I want to know first what we're getting into.+1
Express interest. Try and find out more about the contract, the induction process... and what exactly our "superiors" would be asking of us.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 14, 2020, 05:30:23 am
"What does the contract involve?"
She pulls a paper from a nearby book, pushing it over to you. Its a relatively simple contract, however deeply crouched in linguistic backflips it might be. You belong to the Scholars. In return, and commensurate with your rank within the organization, you will be provided with room, board, and food. After twenty-five years, you will be allowed to open a private enterprise or a new church, freed from your bonds, but still bound to secrecy about anything you've learned. You will be allowed to teach a certain number of individuals your skills. The legal jargon makes your head buzz worse than usual when you read it.
Failure to comply with a direct order, yadda yadda, may result in a punishment depending on the severity of the offense, up to execution. Jail time is also listed, as is being 'exiled from the blessing of the SEED.'
"As for the induction process, you'll be sent to one of the training academies. After two years, you'll be allowed to select a more permanent job. I'd like you to follow in my footsteps with the Crusaders, but a direct posting in the Capital would also suit you well. We'll talk more about it when it comes to your selection. We have time."
"What orders am I expected to follow?" You ask.
"Mine, first and foremost, and you'll keep them quiet." She sips her wine, watching you, "After that, the Elders, Parents and Elder Siblings can all order you around, follow the most highest-ranking order first, except where mine are involved. You follow mine first, no matter what. There are abuses, but the vast majority might be busy-work or major tasks. If you join the Crusaders, you will need to kill or risk your life, but you won't have a problem with that, will you?"
You furrow your brow, looking askance.
"Don't try and act innocent." Mother Nicole's voice sharpens, "You smell of blood and ashes." With a snicker that sends shivers down your spine, she continues, "Your pants are covered with them. Your coat is burned-- something is wrong with your side..." She sobers. "But the thing I noticed first? Your eyes. They never really recover. You've killed."
[6]You have no retort. Mother Nicole smiles across the table, staying silent herself. There's no warmth in her as she watches you intently. It gives you a distinct feeling of being sized up, and your silence spoke volumes. Triumph. She's triumphant right now, and you, you're a mouse caught in a trap.
But you wonder if you should feel guilty. You killed three men just this morning. You didn't mean to, but you only feel satisfied by the outcome. You watched Doc Mitchell die, but his death weighs less on your mind than you expected. Eventually, Mother Nicole taps on the table, jarring you out of your quiet contemplation.
"Look, don't let it get to you, all that matters is that you're alive at the end of the day." She offers, attempting to be helpful, and you once again want to snap at her, but can't offer an argument. "Any other questions before you sign, Phoebe?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on February 14, 2020, 07:49:15 am
Post by: TamerVirus on February 14, 2020, 07:49:51 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 14, 2020, 07:58:35 am
”Why did you join? How did you end up here? What’s your story? Everyone has a story. A reason.”+1
Post by: King Zultan on February 14, 2020, 08:15:41 am
+1”Why did you join? How did you end up here? What’s your story? Everyone has a story. A reason.”+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 15, 2020, 12:11:28 am
[19] "When I was around your age," Mother Nicole begins, "[ the great plague ] ravaged my homeland. All-around me, people died. The local government did nothing. There was nothing to be done except to kill or amputate the injured. They failed at that, too. The Scholars, or rather, SEED, called a crusade — the twelfth great one. Every man and woman that could hold a gun fought. I got a peg-leg and enlisted. I was good at it, and they honed my skills, let me get what I truly wanted. Revenge for my leg, revenge for my friends, and family and the town I loved."
She sits, sad and deflated, swirling her wine around in the glass.
[15] "I got old. Couldn't lead or fight as the young could. I could whip any punk The Scholars sent me into line. Until I couldn't." She laughs, "That was when I hung up my armor and asked for a cushy retirement job. They gave it to me. I'm in charge of this Church and the Town around it. We'll be here for another fifteen years, then move on to a new assignment or new town. Until then, I drink and think."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 15, 2020, 12:14:46 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 15, 2020, 12:31:58 am
Sign the contract.
Hesitant +1... this lady seems on the level, and (though I'm leery of the obligations involved) this really is a solid deal we've stumbled on.
Post by: King Zultan on February 15, 2020, 04:47:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 15, 2020, 04:55:46 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 15, 2020, 05:16:18 am
Ask her if we can take a few days to think about it before signing the contract.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 15, 2020, 02:28:00 pm
+1Ask her if we can take a few days to think about it before signing the contract.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 01:00:12 am
[-] "Of course. I'd think you were a moron if you just jumped at the chance without thinking about it. But do remember this, Phoebe. I want to make -us- powerful, and I would do anything to help you out." She shrugs a shoulder, feigning disinterest, "I'd be giving you my name-- people might think we're related. Treated very well. Just a thought."
"You have until tomorrow night. The apprentices leave the next morning."
She rises, calling to Brother John down the hall to guide you to the apprentice chambers. He hurries back and silently leads you into the room. It's filled with cots huddled against the chilly rain by the fire. A few apprentices sit and talk with one another. They go quiet when they see you, but begin talking again when you're assigned a cot. You fall into it gratefully, covering yourself with the blanket. You soon drift off to a comfortable sleep.
[1/1d3]
--
Fire sprouts itself from your back, into wild wings.
You bow your head to SEED, a great orb of metal and twining trees.
Something presses into your hand. A sharp, cruel dagger behind your back. But there's another — a knife in your side, pressing you forward.
SEED approaches you. And you stab at it.
--
"FAILURE." A voice growls. It rips your wings off, but you feel no pain — only the worse sense of loss imaginable. You feel empty. Ashamed. What would he say? Think? Do? Why isn't he here anymore? Weren't you following the plan faithfully? You followed orders, didn't they see that?
--
You open your eyes as someone jostles your cot.
"Wake up," A brown young man of fourteen or so grumbles, "Breakfast time."
His name is Eric; you come to learn over a breakfast of [grainmeal], raisins, and [apples]. He's a farmer's child, and, after receiving a strong cup of tea, tells you much about his life. You listen to the distraction, keeping him at a metaphorical arm's length when the subject turns to your childhood. You finish your meal, grace him with a smile that sets his face burning red, and leave the church, back out into the open market that surrounds the well. Everything is wet from last night's rain.
The stalls begin to open, hawkers calling their wares to the early morning workers trudging towards the factory. Brother John hurries past you without greeting, going the same direction, and carrying a toolbox.
The doors to the public house are swung open, and patrons begin to spill out into the street, a few still drunk from the night before.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 16, 2020, 01:16:36 am
I daresay that's just about confirmed our angelic nature. More than that, I can't determine.
Let's go have a looksee inside "Hausman's Public Haus".
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 04:11:58 am
Ah, cryptic dreams. The hallmark of all supernatural amnesiacs!+1
I daresay that's just about confirmed our angelic nature. More than that, I can't determine.
Let's go have a looksee inside "Hausman's Public Haus".
Post by: King Zultan on February 16, 2020, 04:24:11 am
+1Ah, cryptic dreams. The hallmark of all supernatural amnesiacs!+1
I daresay that's just about confirmed our angelic nature. More than that, I can't determine.
Let's go have a looksee inside "Hausman's Public Haus".
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 11:29:27 am
+1 Im curious why we tried to kill SEED, who told us to do so?+1Ah, cryptic dreams. The hallmark of all supernatural amnesiacs!+1
I daresay that's just about confirmed our angelic nature. More than that, I can't determine.
Let's go have a looksee inside "Hausman's Public Haus".
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 02:37:16 pm
The Public house is the same size as the church, but more fully furnished, with several independent tables orbiting around the main bar. There are few seats taken, most of the customers having left when morning came. A few lift their heads to look at you as you enter. A wiry, thin man greets you as you take a seat at the bar.
"Welcome, lass. A bit young to be drowning your sorrows in drink, aren't you?" Purveyor Haus asks as he pours you a drink regardless.
"I-I don't have any money." You protest.
"New faces get one free." He counters, but his eyes harden, moving away from you without another word. You're pretty sure he's ignoring you, as he spends time talking with every other guest but you.
The mug is dirty, but the beer within it is cold and fresh. A heady blend of yeast and hops that goes down smooth. Hints of cider, ethanol, and a faint buttery taste.
You look around the room, examining the crowd. The bar is full of a variety of men and women in light armor. Guns stick out of belts or strapped to backs — pistols, sawn-offs, full barrel shotguns, or, as with one gentleman, a massive assault rifle. Some wear masks or bandanas around their necks as they enjoy their drinks.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 16, 2020, 03:01:31 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 03:02:29 pm
Hey bartender! What does one do to get some money around here?+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 04:02:02 pm
[3]A few of the patron giggle at the scene, and they visibly relax around you. They focus more on the subject of their conversations and drinks. You do the same, emptying the rest of your mug and contemplating your next move.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 05:09:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 07:27:45 pm
You're a tall, lanky girl, with a shock of bright red hair. Its unevenly cut, a portion of it hanging down past your ears on your left side. The rest is trimmed up high, and the back is shaved to your head. You're pale, far paler than anybody else you see. Almost translucent, with visible veins. The other thing you notice is an androgynous face, were it not for your long hair and the curve of your body, you could be mistaken for a boy.
"If you're not going to buy it, then stop blocking it!" The merchant screeches, and you take your leave.
[19] As you walk away, somebody grabs the back of your coat. You twist out of their grip, swinging around to face them, squaring up, ready for a fight-- with an old man, who huffs and puffs heavily. He leans on a cane, his hands shaking. Nerves or ailment, you couldn't tell, as he looks frightened.
"Wait, please!" He begs, lifting a hand, "I'm not here to fight! I heard you're looking for work. I can provide a job. Please, come with me back to my shop! I can pay you well!"
What luck.
You nod, following him back without expression. He leads you to a run-down building off the main sqaure, something that was once a gun-shop, if the signage is to be believed. You enter the dustry main-room, taking in the machines and lathes as he hurries to take a seat, heaving a labored breath. The building is a mess, filled with scattered appliances and dirty clothes, half-finished guns gathering dust. A small reactor hums in the back, a display listing a very large number. Several pistol magazines are plugged into it.
"You, you know how to fight. I can tell!" He begins, staring at you over his glasses, "I need someone like you. You're not with a merchant caravan, either. No attachments. I need someone killed, and you're my last hope." He carefully draws a gun out from a safe, more of a masterpiece than a firearm, he sets it gingerly on the table in front of you. "This gun and [five credits] will be your pay."
"Who?" You query, mind performing the math. [Five credits] will provide you enough to live on for quite a while, a loaf of bread costing somewhere between .03 and .04. A night at the public house was [.2 credits] for the suite. Its a hefty sum, for a place like this.
"I want you to kill the son of the warlord."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 07:39:16 pm
Ask him for more information. Specifically, why does he want him dead, what areas does he frequent, and what level of security would be expected.
This sounds like a bad idea.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 07:51:20 pm
"My Polly, my Pollyanna. He killed her. My dear daughter." He chokes, and whatever strength he has fails him as he cradles his face with shaking hands. "I paid three others. They died. He has a posse, his friends and brothers that he drinks with every night at the public house. They challenged him to a duel, and he shot them down in the main street. I don't care anymore if his father has me killed. I've no apprentices and have the shakes."
He shakes his head, lapsing into heavy sobs.
The gun is beautiful. Truly a masterpiece. The magazine holds twice the power that Doc Mitchell's did, and the coolant system looks like its been super-charged. Besides the technical skill that went into it, gold filigree in the shape of twisting [oak] leaves crown the handle, twisting into thorns on the barrel. ['For Polly'] is wrought in silver across it. It feels right at home in your hand. You try to extract the magazine, only to find it permanently attached. To help accommodate the sheer size of it. Five hundred shots before a recharge isn't too bad, however.
"I wanted him hung." He finally musters, "But I'll settle for him burning with her gun."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 08:01:03 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on February 16, 2020, 08:04:59 pm
”It’s a deal. What does he look like? What does he sound like?”There's also all sorts of different folk in the public house, You got a description for what the posse looks like?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 08:25:33 pm
This is for careful consideration by all involved.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 08:30:30 pm
Do the potential benefits really outweigh the dangers? If so, how exactly?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 08:33:35 pm
I'm worried about the consequences. A shootout in the public house could endanger innocents and directly lead to our death. Plus, it would antagonize the local warlord, who probably has the resources to track us down. Not to mention that this could jeopradize our chance to sign Nicole's contract.Fair point, we will probably get money via the contract too
Do the potential benefits really outweigh the dangers? If so, how exactly?
Post by: TamerVirus on February 16, 2020, 08:36:04 pm
Maybe in time, when we’ve developed our skills more
I’m sorry about your daughter, but if this warlord killed three other people and didn’t suffer even one scratch, then I don’t think I’ll fare much better. I’ll think about this, though. You’ll get your revenge, in time.
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 08:53:54 pm
We’re no where near ready for a task of this magnitude at the moment....+1
Maybe in time, when we’ve developed our skills more
I’m sorry about your daughter, but if this warlord killed three other people and didn’t suffer even one scratch, then I don’t think I’ll fare much better. I’ll think about this, though. You’ll get your revenge, in time.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 08:58:27 pm
+1We’re no where near ready for a task of this magnitude at the moment....+1
Maybe in time, when we’ve developed our skills more
I’m sorry about your daughter, but if this warlord killed three other people and didn’t suffer even one scratch, then I don’t think I’ll fare much better. I’ll think about this, though. You’ll get your revenge, in time.
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 09:32:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 10:00:05 pm
Instead, he simply sobs into his hands, shaking his head back and forth. "Pl-please change your mind. I'll be here-- I'll be here if you do. I'll get someone else to try it tomorrow if you don't- don't come back."
With a final glance at the firearm, you turn and leave his shop, making your way to the factory.
The streets off of the main road are quiet, and you walk through them with a heavy weight on your shoulders. Your feet carry you where you want to go, and you arrive in the factory's main courtyard. Men and women bustle around, hauling parts, loading crates or feeding the ore into the hungry furnaces. Brother John is sweating buckets as he hunches over a machine, rummaging within soot-stained internals.
A man is walking through the courtyard with a clipboard, occasionally setting it down to help one of the workers, or to coach them on how to do something. It takes him a while to notice you, and you think. Your mind races through the information you've received about the assassination.
[19][1] Something clicks, and you begin to formulate plans within plans of combat, dueling, and ambushes. Your head begins to ache, however, and you snap yourself out of it by digging your fingernails into the palm of your hand before it can worsen.
"How can I help you?" The overseer states, arms crossing over his chest.
"Uh...I need a job." You mumble, awkwardly, glancing over the courtyard.
"Only one available is Loader. Ken threw out his back." The overseer stares at you and gestures you towards one of the loading docks, where crates of steel are being stacked. You follow, watching as he strains to lift one of these boxes up and on top of another. He gestures for you to follow suit.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 16, 2020, 10:03:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2020, 10:46:38 pm
The Overseer blinks and shakes his head. He reaches out to shake your hand, "I'm John."
"Pheobe."
"Pleasure to meet you. Get to work, the bell will whistle at the break, and I'll show you around." He leaves you without another word, picking up the clipboard. "Pay is [.1] credit per day. You did not start on time, so for you, it'll be [.075 credits.]"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 16, 2020, 10:57:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2020, 11:37:16 pm
Well, let's get cracking! Regardless of what we decide over the whole temple contract thing, it'll be nice to have a bit of pocket change on hand.+1
Post by: Superdorf on February 17, 2020, 12:36:49 am
Not exactly glorious work, but it's honest and it pays.
Also, we seem to be really good at it. Angelic muscle for the win! :))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 02:57:00 am
So, you begin to work. Pallet-jacks drop off more and more of the crates, and you focus on loading them up to that point. You have to clamber atop some of the other boxes to stack them up. The work, while not difficult, begins to take its strain, and by the time the lunch bell whistles, you've worked up a good sweat, your muscles burning with exertion. Your coat sits on a stump of concrete.
[18+1]Overseer John comes back, and you notice a faint look of awe on his face. You've filled the platform up about halfway, all told. The pallet-jacks have been coming too slow for you to continue working at breakneck speed, the backlog has cleared.
"I'm genuinely surprised. Come, I'll show you to the lunchroom and storage lockers. Meals cost [.06 credits], and are taken out of your pay if you decide to eat. An accountant will log you as being present during meal-time. The meals are filling but simple and salty. Drink plenty of water." He explains as you follow along, catching your breath with the slow walk. He brings you into a room filled with tables, centered around a large kitchen. A chef hurries from cook to cook, examining various pots, and directing the staff. The employees themselves dish out their food, filling plates, and rushing to a table.
An accountant notices you, glancing at John, who shakes his head. "Her name is Pheobe, but her meal is free today."
Food, glorious food! Free food, at that.
The meals are indeed simple — a pot of porridge consisting of [grainmeal] and various fruits. There's a gravy with ground chunks of [meat] and vegetables. You heap it over a batch of fried potatoes that drip with oil and salt. You grab a few plates, pile them haphazardly on a tray, and find an empty table.
You devour your meal, the Overseer watching with amusement. He takes a specially marked tray from a heating window and sits down across from you.
"We might have to charge you more if you continue eating like that. Just a warning."
His meal is far from simple. A beautifully trimmed center cut of [meat] loin, with a herby sauce, coupled with shredded potatoes and a heaping amount of vegetables. A small dessert sits on the tray next to him, something that resembles [jello], filled with chunks of fruit and topped with whipped sour cream.
[10]"So, you must work here for a week at the least, before receiving your first paycheck. After that, you will be allowed to draw it out whenever you'd like. If those terms don't work, you will have today's paycheck given to you, but no other. I'm still waiting on a replacement from the capital, so if you don't show up tomorrow, I won't hire you."
You shovel a spoonful of the [grainmeal] and fruit into your mouth and nod.
"Regardless of your plans for tomorrow, I expect you to work four more hours and assist with the Departure." He states bluntly.
You nod, rising to grab a few glasses of water, which you down in a hurry. Just like that, the bell rings out, and the Overseer hurries to finish his meal. You do the same, stacking the dishes up with the rest and heading back to your station. A bunch more pallet jacks arrive, and you're back to work.
[13] After the next four hours, you are breathing hard, leaning against a pillar. Overseer John stands nearby, looking at the platform. He seems disappointed, not in you, no, he pays you no mind. You suspect because the platform is only three-fourths of the way full of crates. But you had to loiter for an hour, unable to do anything else for lack of materials.
A hum begins to fill the air, and you notice a shadow approaching from the west. A large hover-ship, or something much like it, come to a steady stop overhead. A platform is dropped down slowly from the middle of the craft from heavy tethers. It's filled to the line with crates of foodstuffs, bags of grain, and gently thawing iceboxes.
Then the vehicle itself adjusts. And slowly, slowly, it begins to descend, small VTOL engines assisting with minute bursts of blue fire. Tethers drop-down, hovering over the poles of the full platform. They attach and begin to lift it into the sky. When it reaches the bottom of the hover-craft, mechanisms lock the platform into place.
The Overseer makes you back up, and the VTOL engines push out more power, kicking up dust. Then, its primary drivers activate, and it speeds off east-wards, eating through the rising clouds.
[16] Overseer John claps you on the back, and sets off, but not before pointing to a small building in the corner. "Accountant office is over there. You've worked hard enough today. Don't worry about helping with the unloading. I don't want to pay you anymore anyway."
He doesn't say goodnight, instead of helping to direct the flow of goods leaving into the town. You notice employees forming up to buy [grainmeal], [protein], and various [vegetables], speaking with accountants. Prices must be better than going through one of the local farmers, then.
You slip your heavy duster back on and slide your hands into your pockets.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 03:16:36 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 17, 2020, 06:50:12 am
+1Let's cash out and return to the church.+1 Honest work, but we need a bit more excitement
Post by: TamerVirus on February 17, 2020, 07:44:47 am
Let's cash out and return to the church.+1 Honest work, but we need a bit more excitement
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 17, 2020, 08:06:11 am
+1Let's cash out and return to the church.+1 Honest work, but we need a bit more excitement
Post by: King Zultan on February 17, 2020, 10:26:01 am
+1+1Let's cash out and return to the church.+1 Honest work, but we need a bit more excitement
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 06:16:25 pm
As you pass by the public house on your way to the church, you notice just how much of a crowd it has. More than half of the village seems to be in attendance, drinking away their problems and making merry. The amount of armed individuals has also increased more and more people openly wearing firearms. Even the locals seem to be carrying whatever they can. The whole situation feels a bit tense, so you hurry past.
The church doors are shut tight for the night, and you have to pound on them for a solid minute before Brother John pries them open. He glances down at you with a raised brow, before stepping aside and beckoning you.
Mother Nicole is sitting at her desk, contemplating a glass of wine and a pile of paperwork. The former with far more interest than the latter. She looks up at you when you enter, and gives you a cheerful smile. "Ah, Pheobe. Wonderful. I was worried you wouldn't show."
"Sign it Pheobe Gainer, or whatever you want your first name to be. Gainer is the important part." She slides the contract and a pen over to you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 17, 2020, 06:19:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 06:37:28 pm
Quote from: Contract
She pulls a paper from a nearby book, pushing it over to you. Its a relatively simple contract, however deeply crouched in linguistic backflips it might be. You belong to the Scholars. In return, and commensurate with your rank within the organization, you will be provided with room, board, and food. After twenty-five years, you will be allowed to open a private enterprise or a new church, freed from your bonds, but still bound to secrecy about anything you've learned. You will be allowed to teach a certain number of individuals your skills. The legal jargon makes your head buzz worse than usual when you read it.
Failure to comply with a direct order, yadda yadda, may result in a punishment depending on the severity of the offense, up to execution. Jail time is also listed, as is being 'exiled from the blessing of the SEED.'
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 06:42:00 pm
Read the contract. I don't want to sign something we've not checked for fine print first!
Damn your eyes! :P
The signatory hereafter referred to apprentice, is required to follow all commands presented by senior members of the Brotherhood, unless such orders are unlawful, harm the organization, or present greater than an average danger to the apprentice. Exceptions apply, to be examined later if such a conflict of interest is expressed to another superior [officer]. Insubordination is considered not following a direct order to the best of one's ability. It is punishable with the suspension of duty, flogging, branding, imprisonment, banishment, or execution, depending on the severity of the situation and any other factors to be determined by a tribunal of either superior officers or elders.
All secrets, patents, and procedures within the Brotherhood are to be held with the greatest secrecy unless permission is granted through form 12-b to apprentice or senior members. Failure to comply will result in death. If you have any doubts about the confidentiality of a particular concept or procedure, don't share it.
The apprentice is required to serve for a mandatory twenty-five years to receive full benefits, which include a pension, retirement posting, and comprehensive healthcare. Desertion is considered being absent without leave for longer than [1 hour]. It is punishable with imprisonment, banishment, or execution, depending on the severity of the situation and any other factors to be determined by a tribunal.
Apprentices, up until first posting, will receive food, board, medical care, and a salary of [.025 credits] per week, to be paid after the first week. Further benefits based on assignments and posting but generally include food, board, and medical care. Salaries are dependent on work performed, bonuses, etc. All further offers will be presented in new contracts with the apprentice.
I, Apprentice __________________________, promise to uphold my contract to the best of my abilities, accepting all benefits and punishments accordingly. I swear to promote the Great Work in all its efforts; to bring life to this barren world and to eradicate the [demons] that would seek to hinder it.
That's about the summary of it. Legal jargon, form references, table references, and local legalese cloud a lot of it, but you understand the gist of it.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 06:49:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 06:54:27 pm
...or not. Hmm. A 25-year commitment is quite lengthy.
Timeskips will be employed through boring parts, for example, the majority of the academy, if nothing interesting happens. And so on!
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 06:57:08 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on February 17, 2020, 07:03:11 pm
let’s sign
Post by: Superdorf on February 17, 2020, 07:10:45 pm
We've already read the contract:Quote from: ContractShe pulls a paper from a nearby book, pushing it over to you. Its a relatively simple contract, however deeply crouched in linguistic backflips it might be. You belong to the Scholars. In return, and commensurate with your rank within the organization, you will be provided with room, board, and food. After twenty-five years, you will be allowed to open a private enterprise or a new church, freed from your bonds, but still bound to secrecy about anything you've learned. You will be allowed to teach a certain number of individuals your skills. The legal jargon makes your head buzz worse than usual when you read it.
Failure to comply with a direct order, yadda yadda, may result in a punishment depending on the severity of the offense, up to execution. Jail time is also listed, as is being 'exiled from the blessing of the SEED.'
Ach, my mistake! Still, all seems in order.
Sign.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 17, 2020, 09:10:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 09:48:30 pm
I, Mother Nicole of SEED's Holy Steel No' 09, request that Pheobe Gainer is trained as both an Apprentice of SEED, and as a Representative of SEED's Holy Steel No' 09, as per Official Requirements for Increased Independence and Vassalization of Local Warlords as Businessmen. But also with respect to Cultural Demands and Allowances, permitting Pheobe Gainer to carry a firearm and local dress outfit, marked with the Brotherhood Symbol.
She is an outstanding youth, already understanding the basics of the Holy Tongue to the extent of a third level Brother. Reaction times, physical strength, healthiness to the level of a third level Crusader, and previous combat experience of up to two years.
Besides which, Pheobe Gainer is my grand-daughter, a respectable ward for SEED to possess to ensure continued compliance of all with his holy work.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter,
Mother Nicole Gainer, His Twelfth Holy Crusader, Chief Officer of SEED's Holy Steel No' 09, and Mother of Seed's Holy Steel No' 09 Church of Knowledge
"This one too, darling."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 17, 2020, 09:57:49 pm
Sign this one too
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 10:12:30 pm
Sign it.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 17, 2020, 10:25:24 pm
She's really taken a shine to us. We were lucky to find her, though the part about the warlord is a bit odd.+1 it’s talking about increased independence and the possibility of vassalling local warlords, this may or may not make it easier to kill the warlord’s son, if he is a vassal of us, we could tax him to the point where he will starve, if we are his vassals, he may underestimate our strength
Sign it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 17, 2020, 10:36:27 pm
"And here's this for you, sweetie." She offers cold kindness, the informal nickname sounding like venom in her mouth. "Now, here's what I want you do in the academy. Show off your physical abilities and gather a clique, a group; of boys and girls who respect you. Recruit from anywhere, but never tell them the full truth. Keep an eye out for opportunities concerning No' 09's interests. If you think you've found one, send me mail about it. Don't dishonor me, or call me anything but my title or grandmother."
"You're smart, but translations aren't your forte, I can tell." She finishes, smiling at you with a wolf's grin. "Now, tell me about your life so I can fit it all together."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 17, 2020, 10:51:58 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 17, 2020, 11:07:47 pm
"Here's what I do know, however: I am capable, and I will serve you well."
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 17, 2020, 11:18:01 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 17, 2020, 11:56:49 pm
"I know this sounds strange, grandmother, but I truly don't remember. There are some things I can recall, like the Holy Tongue, but the majority of my past is just... blank. I think I suffered some sort of injury."
Say this
Show the wound and explain about the doctor and the men who killed him.
do this
"I hope to regain my memories soon, and when I do, you'll be the first one I tell."
"Here's what I do know, however: I am capable, and I will serve you well."[/b]
and explain this.
Do not bring up the doctor's story of how he found us-- we don't need Mother Nicole knowing we "fell out of the sky". So too, don't bring up the two guys that attacked us back there unless we must-- and if we must, definitely don't go into the details of the fight. "We incinerated them with the power of our fury" is another thing that'd be better kept to ourselves.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 18, 2020, 12:25:57 am
+1"I know this sounds strange, grandmother, but I truly don't remember. There are some things I can recall, like the Holy Tongue, but the majority of my past is just... blank. I think I suffered some sort of injury."
Say thisShow the wound and explain about the doctor and the men who killed him.
do this"I hope to regain my memories soon, and when I do, you'll be the first one I tell."
"Here's what I do know, however: I am capable, and I will serve you well."[/b]
and explain this.
Do not bring up the doctor's story of how he found us-- we don't need Mother Nicole knowing we "fell out of the sky". So too, don't bring up the two guys that attacked us back there unless we must-- and if we must, definitely don't go into the details of the fight. "We incinerated them with the power of our fury" is another thing that'd be better kept to ourselves.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 18, 2020, 01:19:52 am
You lift your shirt over your side, reveal the old bandages that wrap around your abdomen, coated in sweat and grime. For the first time, you realize that you have a dull ache there, not feeling the pain anymore.
"A man named Doc Mitchell saved me, but he was killed that night by a bandit. I killed the man with Doc Mitchell's gun, but the shotgun caused a house fire, and Doc Mitchell's house burned down."
"Hopefully, I can regain my memories. When I do, you'll be the first one I tell." You duck your head in a slight, respectful bow, [20], but notice something off. Mother Nicole has both her hands under the table. Her eyes are cold and calculating in an instant, openly hostile.
"Did Doc Mitchell tell you how he found you?" She asks, watching you intently.
[17] "No."
[7+2] She visibly relaxes, her expression hidden once more. "A drunk said you fell out of the sky."
[6] "So let's do this. You don't tell anyone anything about my plans, and I don't tell anyone about you being a [demon]. Sound fair?"
[17] You hesitate, eyes widening as you look at Mother Nicole. Beneath her desk, there's the faintest of sounds, a reactor warming up.
[20] "Yes, Mother Nicole." It is all you can manage to stutter out those three words. She relaxes, giving the nod, the reactor of whatever firearm she has aimed at your lower body powers down.
"If there's an impulse for you to harm or maim somebody, don't act on it unless they truly deserve it. If there are voices in your head, do not listen. If you have an urge to sneeze or cough on a group of people, do not do it. Do you understand? If you break any of these, and I find out, I'll kill you myself."
"Yes, Mother Nicole."
"Good. Good. Tell people you have amnesia, remembering nothing but for your dear old gran. You stumbled in, half delirious from exhaustion and dehydration. I'll send you letters describing your family to you. Dismissed."
You rise, hesitating to turn your back. But, you do anyway. Mother Nicole had plenty of opportunities, yet she didn't. That's a form of trust.
...
Shutting the door to the apprentice rooms, you find your cot from the night before and slump into it. Sleep comes quickly.
--
[1/1d2]
You run, and run, and run, skidding down metal corridors that look like they want to devour you. Pain burns through your Body, a massive gash across one shoulder, the skin turning gray around the wound.
But you run as fast as your little legs can take you.
Not fast enough. You fall to the floor, a sudden, heavy weight pressing down on your legs. Snip.
It stands now on your leg. Blood booms outward, staining the corridor again.
A tentacle presses into your back, slicing through your flesh like a hot razor into butter. Its jaws wrap around your abdomen--
[20]
Fire erupts down the hallway, sending the creature flying with the smell of burning bug. The flames that lick at it are multi-hued.
He turns you over, lifting you into his arms and rushing down the hallway.
"Medic! Medic! Its Alphira!"
--
When Eric shakes you awake, you feel incredibly well-rested. "Come on, Pheobe. You're going to be late." You notice that your duster is gone, replaced by a clean, brand new version, adorned with the symbol of the Holy Seed. Beneath it, you realize, is an [equation, involving carbon and iron, with a nine beside it] A gun in its holster, you know, sits within. A newly folded, clean grey shirt, all sharp angles, a grey pair of formal pants, and a pair of new boots, trimmed with fur, all sit atop it. A pair of tight leather gloves and a hat sit nearby.
You nod to Eric, giving a glance to your clothes and him. He blinks, and then makes his exit while you change.
Inside is a note, "I'll keep the other duster for you. Love Grandma."
You rise, heading out into the lunchroom to grab a bowl of grain-meal and start your day.
Its mid-afternoon when your medical check is complete. The Sister Doctor treated you efficiently, removing your stitches and replacing your bandage. She tells you that your wound will heal within another week. You, more experienced with your Body, suspect a day or two.
She prescribes you an antibiotic, which you begin to take.
You are given time to straighten your uniform and say goodbye to loved ones or family. Eric's well-dressed father is here, gently patting him on the head, by his side is a young woman who continually smiles at Eric. Across from them is a tall girl, with blond hair and dark clothing, slouching between two massive bodyguards.
A blond man approaches them, giving the young girl a chaste hug and a genuine smile. [13] You focus, however, on the gun jammed into the belt of his duster. 'For Polly' is engraved on the barrel in gold trim. Ornate gold leaves coil into vicious thorns.
A miner sees off his son, beaming happily. There are others, but the variations are minute. No one comes for you-- or so you think until you feel Mother Nicole fussing with the back of your duster. You flinch, and she smacks you upside the head. "Sit still, brat; you messed up the seam."
"Be safe. A friend of mine will check in on you when you land. His name is Tyler Hop. I trained him myself. He'll be your contact." She murmurs, softly, "If anything is too juicy for mail, or you think it is, send it through him."
When she finishes, she leaves, then you trudge onto the landing pad, just as a ship touches down — a large passenger hover-craft, filled with teens your age or younger. A bubbling sick feeling rises within you, sense of hopelessness that you tamp down.
You take a seat, and Eric sits beside you, smiling dopily. You watch as the ground lifts away, the village following suit, and then you're soaring north, over the mountains. Farmland stretches out beneath you, and for the first time, you feel a little more at ease, being this far up, within these confines of a ship.
How do you approach the Academy? What are your goals going to be?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 18, 2020, 03:24:48 am
We should also work as hard as we can to distinguish ourselves and succeed in training. If we leverage our superhuman abilities, we can make it to the top of the class and have our pick of postings.
Lastly, we should make an effort to learn as much about the world and its history as possible, focusing on more recent events and closer locations. Being more familiar with common customs and traditions will allow us to blend in more effectively.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 18, 2020, 06:37:26 am
Nicole knows our secret, so it's essential that we comply with her request to form or infiltrate a clique of potential recruits, perhaps by showing off our physical prowess to attract attention.+1
We should also work as hard as we can to distinguish ourselves and succeed in training. If we leverage our superhuman abilities, we can make it to the top of the class and have our pick of postings.
Lastly, we should make an effort to learn as much about the world and its history as possible, focusing on more recent events and closer locations. Being more familiar with common customs and traditions will allow us to blend in more effectively.
Post by: King Zultan on February 18, 2020, 09:11:01 am
+1Nicole knows our secret, so it's essential that we comply with her request to form or infiltrate a clique of potential recruits, perhaps by showing off our physical prowess to attract attention.+1
We should also work as hard as we can to distinguish ourselves and succeed in training. If we leverage our superhuman abilities, we can make it to the top of the class and have our pick of postings.
Lastly, we should make an effort to learn as much about the world and its history as possible, focusing on more recent events and closer locations. Being more familiar with common customs and traditions will allow us to blend in more effectively.
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 18, 2020, 01:14:27 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 19, 2020, 12:43:27 am
You think he's trying to impress you, so you play your part, paying him enough attention to keep him talking. By the end of it, he's beaming wide about his life. But then the smile crumples.
"But uh...wow. I would have never thought you were related to Black Nicky." He manages, looking at you with a strange mix of awe and fascination. Beneath that, though, is fear. You raise an eyebrow, and he corrects himself, "Sorry, Mother Nicole."
"Tell me about her. I don't remember much."
"Well, she was the twelfth Crusader. She led the purging of the Arcian region of the planet. We learn about her near the end of our history classes." Eric is hesitantly choosing his words, "She...she ordered a lot of firebombings. Entire cities were burned to the ground, sometimes still full of civilians."
You don't think you react the way he expects you to, as you shrug and go back to looking out the window. Instead, "What's the Infection?"
"Its a...plague. It turns people into monsters. It infects the lands, buildings, machines. Everything it touches rots and dies."
[6] "Wouldn't it be better then, to burn everything?" You offer.
He flinches as if you've struck him. "Crusaders are supposed to protect Humans. Risking everything to try and protect as many people as they can!"
[7] He gets up when you don't reply, looking irritated. He strikes up a conversation with the Miner's Child instead of you. You inwardly sigh, rising to your feet as well. A certain blond girl has caught your eye, and you take a seat right next to her.
[8] "Yes, Sister Gainer?" She's blunt with her irritation.
[16]"You seem like someone interesting to talk to." You offer by way of explanation, "But if you're dealing with something, I'll leave you to it."
The blond shakes her head at you, shoulders slumping. "Sorry, that was rude of me. I'm Emma Thornton, my Father is William Thornton, and my brother is his Junior."
[19] "Pheobe Gainer, pleasure." You look at her blankly, however. "Who are they?"
[-] Relief pours over her, but it fades as she mumbles, "They....used to be the Warlord and Heir, but they're businessmen now."
You nod, and she begins venting in earnest. Things like, "I didn't even want to join the Scholars." and, "My brother tries so hard, but I just feel scared when I talk to him!"
By the end of her tirade, she seems exhausted, but relieved, smiling widely at you. "Thanks, Pheobe...I haven't had anyone to talk to for a long time."
You pat her on the shoulder, and she politely asks you questions about yourself. You feed her your 'life story,' and while she looks confused by a few things, she's still smiling, patting you on the shoulder.
A small display reads that you have three hours before arrival.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 19, 2020, 05:11:14 am
The hover-craft begins to de-accelerate until it slowly stops in mid-air. It adjusts by turning with micro-jets until it enters the long descent down into a large compound.
Three large, pre-fabricated buildings jut out of the ground, all single story, and all clustered around the only three-story building, with a bulky bottom floor. They're all made out of dull, grey steel. A few wooden sheds dot the landscape, and a target range is facing away from the civilization of a small town. A dense wall of cement and razor-wire blocks everything neatly in.
You stream out with the others, onto the field.
"Welcome to the Academy. Here, we'll teach you the basics of being a Scholar. That includes, and I list;" Someone begins to drone from in front of the crowd.
When she makes introductions, you learn they are the teaching body; a fitness instructor, a military instructor, three teachers for maths and sciences, and five for language and culture. You note the military instructor's name is Brother Tyler Hop.
Everyone receives a schedule document, with a number on the back, and is dismissed after the speech.
Back at the barracks and your Siblings set to work quickly to make dinner, lest you fall asleep on an empty stomach. Somehow you burn water and, through a unanimous vote, are sent to setting the table. You protest internally, but resign yourself to your newfound reputation as an awful cook. You eat no more of dinner than your fair share and help to clean more efficiently than you helped cook, earning back the respect of your peers.
Spoiler: Schedule (click to show/hide)
The entry examinations fly by, and you do well in all of them, excelling in particular with physical training and firearm handling. However, Translations are awkward, in that every concept you know is wrong, requiring this word, or this formula to be included. Writing is also tricky, as you end up writing in what you think is the proper language because it all looks the same to you. You have to -concentrate- not to translate everything into an underlying script, and the primary text itself feels alien to you.
At the end of the week, you receive a revised schedule, and you realize with dread that you have an extra hour of physical training in the morning with Brother Hop. The workout is far more brutal than the one the other apprentices go through. It exhausts you, as he seems to consider your...unnatural abilities in the training.
Eric attempts to and fails to show you up at every turn, while Emma tutors you in Translations. Days, weeks, months drift by as you learn, study, and exercise. By the end of the first year, you have dozens of people who would call you their friend, among them Emma, are twenty pounds heavier with muscle and can write and speak three scholarly scripts with ease.
...
You receive the first week of the second year off. The students are talking about spending the week in town, getting rid of some of their back pay. You're lying in your room, staring up at the ceiling. You ponder how to spend the first true bit of free time in a year off.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Sorry for the double-post!
Post by: TamerVirus on February 19, 2020, 07:56:43 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 19, 2020, 08:00:20 am
Send a basic status update to Grandma, then join our new friends in what they’re doing for vacation+1
Post by: King Zultan on February 19, 2020, 09:47:26 am
+1Send a basic status update to Grandma, then join our new friends in what they’re doing for vacation+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 20, 2020, 03:54:41 am
Emma has already sent the others ahead to the first public house they see by the time you emerge from your room into shared quarters. She starts walking out the door, and you have no choice but to follow.
During the brief walk, she fills you in on the petty politics of the clique, the general sentiment of each member, and any tutoring or assistance she had to organize. She also lists the promises kept, and fulfilled, and the ones where you have to intervene directly.
"McGee and James say you beat Eric up by the end of the week, in town. They have a point, though." Emma states, bluntly, mentioning two of your 'friends'. Two subdivisions of promises within the group. "He's been testing your patience on purpose for a year. They're wondering why. Mcgee thinks you're unwilling to break the rules. James is concerned about a secret."
The town opens up when you enter the market square. Vendors have set up shop wherever there's room, selling anything your heart desires. Makeshift cooking stalls leave the air aromatic with dozens of different foods. The three bars have opened their doors out into the street, signs posted up to advertise Scholar discounts.
With a regretful glance towards the food stalls that Emma giggles at, you enter the first one on your left, your friends are greeting you cheerfully.
You and Emma are passed a glass from the bartender, and you down your first drink of the night.
[7+1] You notice everyone is finished with their drink. Something about this bothers you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 20, 2020, 04:29:17 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 20, 2020, 06:35:00 am
"How many have you guys had? It looks like I need to catch up."say this, then start drinking
Post by: King Zultan on February 20, 2020, 10:13:46 am
+1"How many have you guys had? It looks like I need to catch up."say this, then start drinking
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 12:37:17 am
"Only the Hospitality drink," Mcgee counters, with a laugh, "How many have you had?"
[4] Emma shoots him a dark glare, and he returns it with a smile. She calls the bartender over, "One round of [whiskey] for my friends and me, please." She nudges you with her elbow, looking disappointed, "On her tab."
[11] Your group of friends cheers, laughing to themselves, and Emma relaxes, giving you an apologetic smile. She leans in close as the bartender fills your friend's mugs with a carefully measured shot. "The boss always buys the first round. Its tradition. The cheapest drink is always accepted, but..." She cuts herself off, taking her mug and lifting it to her lips. "Heavier drinks can always cover a faux pas."
The group cheers you and Emma, and you empty your glass. The whiskey...is disappointing. It tastes like someone mixed pure ethanol and pine resin. James starts coughing, and Mcgee prods him with a taunt. Everyone, after that point, begins to order whatever their hearts desire. Ales, ciders, one young woman even asks for a glass of wine. They're tipsy, you can tell, but you feel nothing. You need a lot more alcohol.
[10] You buy the rest of the whiskey bottle at a discount, taking massive draws from it.[-.2 credits]
Emma purchases a bottle of wine, taking a seat at the bar next to you. Your 'friends' keep a respectful distance, instead of chatting with Emma and letting you drink. When you finally empty the bottle, you feel a little fuzzy. A couple of beers later, and you feel much tipsier than you can remember.
[1] Eric steps into the bar, at the head of his little group. They stop dead when they see you, already swaying from intoxication. Your friends go quiet. James and McGee are looking between the two of you, and even Emma rises to her feet.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 12:41:17 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 01:05:50 am
Throw a salute! Offer to buy Eric a drink too.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 01:42:09 am
[1] He pours it out. "Sorry. Could you buy me another?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 02:02:11 am
"I ain't replacing this one, now!"
Yeah, that was an affront, and apparently our drinking buddies have been expecting us to beat Eric up... but then, Eric seemed kinda decent when we met him! I'd rather kill whatever bad blood is between us now than spark an all-out grudge match, if at all possible. Can't hurt to have a reputation for patience, so long as we set some real clear boundaries at some point of what we will and will not tolerate.
Anyway, 'tis better to be a happy drunk than a grumpy drunk yes? :D
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 02:07:41 am
"Eeesh, waste of a good drink." Buy another.
"I ain't replacing this one, now!"
Yeah, that was an affront, and apparently our drinking buddies have been expecting us to beat Eric up... but then, Eric seemed kinda decent when we met him! I'd rather kill whatever bad blood is between us now than spark an all-out grudge match, if at all possible. Can't hurt to have a reputation for patience, so long as we set some real clear boundaries at some point of what we will and will not tolerate.
Anyway, 'tis better to be a happy drunk than a grumpy drunk yes? :D
Makes sense, though I suspect this will end in a fight. +1
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 02:15:35 am
...also now that I think of it, Mother Nicole did kinda tell us she'll straight-up slaughter us if we beat anyone up who doesn't really really deserve it. Best tread carefully.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 02:45:38 am
[18] With his glass refilled, a side-glance at the server, Eric downs it in a few gulps. "Not worth bothering these folks for." Then without so much as a backward look, he leaves. His friends file out behind him, slow to leave and complaining to him all the while. Mcgee and James look confused, but say nothing to you directly.
[9] "Why do you keep letting him act that way towards you?" Emma asks quietly, sipping from her glass, having reclaimed her seat, "You could've put him in the grave by now."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 03:18:55 am
"Seriously though... I remember when Eric was a happy little thing showing me about the academy; I don't care to hurt him now for trying to get my goat. If he looks to really hurt any of us, then I'll consider breaking him a little-- not before! I know I could."
Post by: King Zultan on February 21, 2020, 05:23:43 am
"It's vacation week! I couldn't kill a fellow student on vacation week." (Grin.)+1
"Seriously though... I remember when Eric was a happy little thing showing me about the academy; I don't care to hurt him now for trying to get my goat. If he looks to really hurt any of us, then I'll consider breaking him a little-- not before! I know I could."
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 06:20:40 am
+1"It's vacation week! I couldn't kill a fellow student on vacation week." (Grin.)+1
"Seriously though... I remember when Eric was a happy little thing showing me about the academy; I don't care to hurt him now for trying to get my goat. If he looks to really hurt any of us, then I'll consider breaking him a little-- not before! I know I could."
Post by: King Zultan on February 21, 2020, 07:29:11 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 21, 2020, 07:35:47 am
(Is this inspired by Paradise Lost?)regardless of the base, the game is fun +1+1"It's vacation week! I couldn't kill a fellow student on vacation week." (Grin.)+1
"Seriously though... I remember when Eric was a happy little thing showing me about the academy; I don't care to hurt him now for trying to get my goat. If he looks to really hurt any of us, then I'll consider breaking him a little-- not before! I know I could."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 02:05:52 pm
[20] Emma heaves a dramatic sigh, refilling her glass, and your's with the wine. "I can't stay mad at you." She pouts but doesn't argue. Neither do Mcgee or James, who resume their conversations, more at ease now than when the night first began. Emma is quiet as you drink your wine with her. She looks like she wants to say more, but doesn't.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 05:03:45 pm
Consider at some point: have we done something to make an enemy of Eric?
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 05:24:21 pm
Relax! Socialize. Enjoy the evening. Try not to get too drunk.+1
Consider at some point: have we done something to make an enemy of Eric?
Post by: TamerVirus on February 21, 2020, 06:30:31 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 21, 2020, 08:12:24 pm
+1Relax! Socialize. Enjoy the evening. Try not to get too drunk.+1
Consider at some point: have we done something to make an enemy of Eric?
Post by: Superdorf on February 21, 2020, 10:51:12 pm
<Eric associates Phoebe with Mother Nicole, who seems to have a polarizing reputation. He’s also got that competitive ”I’m better than you!” personality>
Yeah, that's quite likely all this is-- still, I'd like to check we haven't done something out-of-the-ordinary to offend him. It's been a year, after all!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 10:58:47 pm
[10] The rest of your time passes pretty uneventfully. You have a few beers, another glass of Emma's wine, and a shot some random classmate bought you. Mcgee, then James challenges you to an arm-wrestle, which you soundly beat both of them, while Emma drunkenly referees. You never get more than tipsy-- you probably have to drink a lot more to get drunk. Emma is another story; she's hunched over the bar, near the end, and, piteously asks you to take her home. Several of your friends snigger. They go quiet when you glance at them.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 21, 2020, 11:06:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 11:08:20 pm
Be a good friend and take Emma home+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2020, 11:23:40 pm
You step out into the cold night air, Into a deserted town in the early midnight hours.
[1][12][11][11] Too empty. Something pricks at your senses, and you take in your surroundings as you walk down the paved path out of the city. You don't stop moving, though. You confirm your suspicions in moments—fIve people sulk in one of the alley-ways between a gunshop and a pawnbroker, on the way out of town. You feel the faint hum of pistol reactors from them.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2020, 11:29:16 pm
Also, are any nearby buildings likely to be unlocked?
Post by: Superdorf on February 22, 2020, 12:25:34 am
Take cover behind a nearby building out of line of sight, quickly if they start to move, but otherwise at a normal pace. Determine whether flanking them or getting on a roof is an option.
Also, are any nearby buildings likely to be unlocked?
+1
Post by: King Zultan on February 22, 2020, 06:23:33 am
+1Take cover behind a nearby building out of line of sight, quickly if they start to move, but otherwise at a normal pace. Determine whether flanking them or getting on a roof is an option.
Also, are any nearby buildings likely to be unlocked?
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 22, 2020, 09:08:34 am
+1, take Emma with us when we go to cover/on the roof/into a building+1Take cover behind a nearby building out of line of sight, quickly if they start to move, but otherwise at a normal pace. Determine whether flanking them or getting on a roof is an option.
Also, are any nearby buildings likely to be unlocked?
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 22, 2020, 01:59:40 pm
[5]They're on the move now. The hum of their pistols prickling at your senses as they make their way towards your location.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 22, 2020, 02:16:48 pm
Draw our pistol. Keep to the darkness of our corner; stay still, silent, and low to the ground. Should our would-be assailants enter the building, overcharge our weapon and incinerate them.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 22, 2020, 03:09:29 pm
Speak low. "Trouble. Stay quiet."+1
Draw our pistol. Keep to the darkness of our corner; stay still, silent, and low to the ground. Should our would-be assailants enter the building, overcharge our weapon and incinerate them.
Post by: TamerVirus on February 22, 2020, 03:17:33 pm
Speak low. "Trouble. Stay quiet."+1
Draw our pistol. Keep to the darkness of our corner; stay still, silent, and low to the ground.
Ambush and shoot normally, aiming for the center of mass
<Using Overload would blow our cover and reveal ourself as a supernatural being. It'll draw way too much attention. It'll also destroy our weapon.>
Post by: ZBridges on February 22, 2020, 03:25:34 pm
Also, if possible without making too much noise, lock the door(s).
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 22, 2020, 03:47:53 pm
+1Speak low. "Trouble. Stay quiet."+1
Draw our pistol. Keep to the darkness of our corner; stay still, silent, and low to the ground.
Ambush and shoot normally, aiming for the center of mass
<Using Overload would blow our cover and reveal ourself as a supernatural being. It'll draw way too much attention. It'll also destroy our weapon.>
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 22, 2020, 11:10:10 pm
The group comes to a stop in front of the building. Then they wait. Their las-pistols don't move, after all. And you use those moments to take a look around. Two windows, facing the street and shuttered closed. A few crates litter the floor, Emma hides behind one. You hide behind another. The door doesn't have a lock, no, correction; the lock is broken. There's another door, out into the alleyway.
After a few tense minutes, there's whispering from the group, followed by...
[6] "Emma Thornton, we know you're in there. Come on out before we visit your friends."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 22, 2020, 11:13:30 pm
I think one option would be to take the other exit and try to silently flank them.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 22, 2020, 11:24:37 pm
Are las-pistols capable of shooting through walls or doors?
The las-pistols you and most of the people in this world have access to could maybe burn through a thin, metal wall, a glass window, or other thin material and retain their accuracy, under normal firing conditions. Thicker walls and structures would diminish or negate the blast, but 'drilling' is a common concept. I.e. Firing until there's a hole to shoot out of, but generally that isn't a stealthy approach.
There's insulated plastic plates within your kevlar coat-- it can stop most of a las-pistol blast.
[2] The walls are thick wood, but the windows and shutters aren't.
Post by: TamerVirus on February 22, 2020, 11:33:49 pm
Block the door using one of the crates. Check the alleyway for cover and a flanking route
Post by: ZBridges on February 22, 2020, 11:39:19 pm
<Emma’s dad must have gone and attempted to assassinate the current Warlord’s son. Now they got beef with her. They want to ‘visit’ ‘her friends’, which includes us. That sounds like a threat. That means justified self-defense. I’m not so sure how secure our cover is here...>+1, as long as the crate can be moved quickly and is sufficiently heavy to serve as a decent impediment, and as long as the door (only) opens inward.
Block the door using one of the crates. Check the alleyway for cover and a flanking route
If any of that is not true, try to quickly but silently flank the group through the other exit.
Post by: Superdorf on February 22, 2020, 11:48:32 pm
Stay put. No words. Watch from behind the crate, and gun down anyone who tries to come in.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 23, 2020, 12:29:05 am
No need to waste time blocking doors-- better to stay where we are, and use the existing entryways as chokepoints for picking off our enemies,+1
Stay put. No words. Watch from behind the crate, and gun down anyone who tries to come in.
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 02:44:20 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 23, 2020, 02:54:05 am
[11-9] The one in the front takes a blast to the chest, staggering back into the other with a surprised look on his face as a portion of his chest vanishes in a splash of fire, then soft flesh gives way to steam of blood. He drops his gun, and the other man lifts his towards you, blocked by a portion of his former friend.
[6-19] His shot goes wide, arcing out over Emma's head with a soft hiss, cracking into the wood of the roof.
[9-12] You retaliate, firing again, but the pulse burns through the corpse instead of your intended target.
The great-coated kidnapper finally ducks out of the way, dropping his dead comrade to the ground and leaving your lines of fire.
[3][10-14]Something slugs into your shoulder, just below the plate, from behind-- the back door! Pain, horrible burning pain sears through beneath your back-- then, it's gone. The smell of burning flesh and plastic fills your nose. Emma screams.
[15-3] You roll out of the way of the next shot, dragging your pistol up, too slowly-- something is wrong with your arm. But the Ambushing Kidnapper is surprised by Emma, his gun tracking to her. You snap off a shot, and his head caves in.
[10+3]You hear movement from outside, but no one else enters. There's something definitely wrong with your back, and it's affecting your arm. You know you should be in great pain, maybe even shock at this point, but your consciousness doesn't fade. Emma is screaming your name.
Agression or defense?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 03:01:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 23, 2020, 03:12:16 am
[14] A few drops of dark, dark clotted blood drip from your nose, to the ground below. You have a lancing pain in your head, followed by the intense pain of your damaged back. Both are stripped away from your awareness in the next instant.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 03:26:39 am
Maybe we should take the initiative and leave through the door that we didn't just hear movement near, with the intent of circling around the building? We might suprise them, since they are (probably?) aware that we are severely injured and likely to be immobile. That would leave Emma undefended, however, and she's the target of the kidnappers.
I think it's worth a try, though.
Post by: King Zultan on February 23, 2020, 08:48:54 am
I suppose it's possible that they will be dissuaded by the casualties and leave. If they don't leave, we still have two entrances that they can use to attack us.+1 Time for flanking!
Maybe we should take the initiative and leave through the door that we didn't just hear movement near, with the intent of circling around the building? We might suprise them, since they are (probably?) aware that we are severely injured and likely to be immobile. That would leave Emma undefended, however, and she's the target of the kidnappers.
I think it's worth a try, though.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 23, 2020, 11:15:10 am
I suppose it's possible that they will be dissuaded by the casualties and leave. If they don't leave, we still have two entrances that they can use to attack us.+1 Time for flanking!
Maybe we should take the initiative and leave through the door that we didn't just hear movement near, with the intent of circling around the building? We might suprise them, since they are (probably?) aware that we are severely injured and likely to be immobile. That would leave Emma undefended, however, and she's the target of the kidnappers.
I think it's worth a try, though.
Post by: Superdorf on February 23, 2020, 11:29:26 am
Call to mind the power we put through our pistol when first we woke, and channel that power through our broken back. We've shown ourselves able to recover from horrible injury in past-- now we must accelerate the process, and knit swiftly our ruined flesh.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 23, 2020, 11:31:49 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 03:16:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 23, 2020, 05:30:04 pm
[18 vs 12]Instead, you turn out the back door, into the cold night air. And bump into another Kidnapper. He blinks. You shoot. He falls back, a new hole in his chest steaming blood.
[3] [5 vs 15]Another Kidnapper moves into sight, noticing you before you notice him. He lifts his gun and you feel a hard punch to your chest as the bullet connects with an armor plate. A few more whiz overhead, beside you, as he empties his magazine.
[20 vs 17] He dives to the ground as you lift your las-gun, but you expected that, and shoot him twice as he goes prone.
[9-4] As you get to the end of the alley, you use the wall as cover, leveling your las-gun at the doorway-- there's no one there. The Greatcoated Kidnapper is running away from you. Las-gun fire still peppers the doorway in sporadic bursts, as Emma provides cover the best she can.
[1/1d2] Bloodlust burns in your veins as you lift your pistol and take aim. With careful precision, you neatly leave the man's leg a bloody mess, and he falls to the paved road with a cry.
[20] Now free to concern yourself with your injuries, you reach around, feeling the edges of the gaping hole in your back. You finally notice the trail of blood you've left behind you. Your right arm is hard to handle, and you notice a slight delay as your mind routes commands through more intact parts of your body. You're badly injured, there's muscle damage, to be sure, maybe even a broken rib. But, you breath, and begin to focus on it, on trying to knit your body back together through sheer will alone.
For a second, nothing happens. Then the pain returns, knocking you to your knees. It pulses with every heartbeat, and you feel your consciousness fading. Emma slowly emerges from the empty building, rushing to your side. She holds you up as you fight through the shock.
[10]Then its nothing more than a dull ache. Your nose is bleeding again, more of that clotted, dark, old blood. It doesn't stop as quickly this time. Emma seems horrified when you lift yourself to your feet with her assistance.
"You-your back--how..." She begins, but is interrupted by the sobbing of the kidnapper down the road.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 05:39:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 23, 2020, 06:01:59 pm
[2-5 vs. NO CONTEST] The shot goes wide, over your head. You pull the trigger and mulch his wrist. He screams in pain, curling up around it. You press your pistol to his spine, leaning down over him. "Tell me everything."
[18-6 vs. 8+1] "Fuck you." He spits, still taking deep, ragged sobs of pain.
[20] "Emma, look away." You sigh. With careful hands and practiced movements, you peel away the coolant housing of your las-pistol, firing two shots into the ground that turns the element red. The Kidnapper takes one look at the red-hot weapon and begins to babble everything, his resistance fading. You bet he's seen this before. Brother Hop sure knows his stuff. You reassemble the housing with deft hands as he spills his guts.
"Johnny Moore sent us," He's a local 'businessman, a warlord given a pardon and the ability to consolidate his holdings legally, "He wanted a good deal with Old Man Thornton-- he heard Emma was in town with the academy. Leverage. I saw-swear we weren't going to hurt her." He's lying.
"Where is he?" You ask as Emma stands shocked.
"In-in his villa, of course." He gives you a vague location when you press more. It's in town, not too far from here.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 23, 2020, 07:05:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 23, 2020, 08:44:03 pm
Finish him off, no loose ends. Check on Emma
Reluctant +1
I just don't see any way to keep this guy alive-- he's too dangerous to leave behind, and too mangled to drag with us.
Post by: ZBridges on February 23, 2020, 09:08:28 pm
"Thank you; that will be all."+1Finish him off, no loose ends. Check on Emma
Reluctant +1
I just don't see any way to keep this guy alive-- he's too dangerous to leave behind, and too mangled to drag with us.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 23, 2020, 10:39:07 pm
"Are you-" You begin.
She shushes you, coldly stating, "We need to get back home, shower and sleep. You need the Doctor. I need to send a message to my father." She looks too exhausted and shocked for words, stumbling as the two of you finally start turning towards the Academy, down another back street.
You put your coat back on in a thicket of woods off the road outside of town, you and Emma lounging against trees, catching your breath. Your head continues to throb, painfully. "How did you survive that?" She asks, finally breaking the silence she imposed.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 24, 2020, 12:05:51 am
We've got three options here: trust our friend with the truth (risky), lie somehow (and probably fail miserably)... or indulge in a little post-trauma exhaustion, and dodge the question. I'm inclined to go with that last, for now.
Consider: do we trust Emma to keep a secret?
Post by: ZBridges on February 24, 2020, 12:09:44 am
"Not sure. Don't want... don't want to think about it. Everything hurts."+1
We've got three options here: trust our friend with the truth (risky), lie somehow (and probably fail miserably)... or indulge in a little post-trauma exhaustion, and dodge the question. I'm inclined to go with that last, for now.
Post by: Superdorf on February 24, 2020, 12:30:20 am
Looking at that last dream, and the dream before... I've no idea at this point what we are. We're a little less than angel, it seems, but a little more than human. Mother Nicole thinks we're a [demon], apparently, and given recent events she may be onto something... but then, I don't know what that even means in this world! It's all leaving me very confused. ???
Post by: ZBridges on February 24, 2020, 12:54:30 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 24, 2020, 02:48:05 am
That is our true name, "Alphira."+1"Not sure. Don't want... don't want to think about it. Everything hurts."+1
We've got three options here: trust our friend with the truth (risky), lie somehow (and probably fail miserably)... or indulge in a little post-trauma exhaustion, and dodge the question. I'm inclined to go with that last, for now.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 24, 2020, 04:31:41 am
[15] Emma nods at that, rising to her feet and offering you an unsteady hand. "Come on, let's get back to the academy."
You take the offered grip and pull yourself up. You take the lead as you navigate towards the Academy, cutting through field and thicket alike. After one final potato field, you move past the gate of the Academy compound in the dead of night. You hail the gate guard, who lets you through as soon as he sees Emma.
You stand in the protected courtyard of the Academy and feel at ease. Emma nearly slumps to the ground with exhaustion, but pulls herself up and drags herself back to the Living Quarters.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 24, 2020, 08:03:51 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 24, 2020, 08:20:47 am
Hunger... Find food.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 24, 2020, 08:22:17 am
+1Hunger... Find food.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 24, 2020, 03:29:46 pm
With that finished, you step into the showers, washing off the clotted blood from your back and your clothes. The shirt you replace, but the coat is going to need repairs. With a ginger hand, you reach back, feeling the wound on your shoulder. It's still sore, but a vast majority of it has healed. You lift your arm, not feeling that curious delay anymore as you stretch and go through the motions.
A massive bruise spreads its way across your chest, an ugly mottled thing of brown and blue. You figure it'll be healed by tomorrow, however, and make sure to wash it off.
Your nosebleed has finally stopped by the time you leave the shower, and you clear your sinuses.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 24, 2020, 03:33:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 24, 2020, 03:39:05 pm
sleep. Perhaps sleeping will help our body heal
+1
Tomorrow we'll want to check in with Emma, find out what she knows of the people behind the attack, consider writing a report to Mother Nicole... but for now, rest sounds good.
Post by: ZBridges on February 24, 2020, 03:50:07 pm
+1sleep. Perhaps sleeping will help our body heal
+1
Tomorrow we'll want to check in with Emma, find out what she knows of the people behind the attack, consider writing a report to Mother Nicole... but for now, rest sounds good.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 24, 2020, 04:13:14 pm
[3] You dream half-remembered nightmares. Metallic insects rip and tear at your flesh, corpses rise only to twist and rend into abominations with far too many mouths and teeth. Your friends die, only to turn and attack you. Emma twists into a bloated aberration, all thrashing razorwire tentacles, grabbing at your throat as you scream for mercy. The fire never comes to save you this time.
[13] Emma, however, does. She shakes you from your nightmares, looking equal parts concerned and exhausted. She shushes you as you ask questions, helping to remake the bed you scrambled apart in your fitful sleep. As you drift back to sleep, she lays down next to you.
[-] You awake the next morning, emerging from your room into a crowded common space. Everyone is at work making breakfast, Emma and Eric working together to direct the flow of food and labor, as they normally do. No one gives you a second glance, and, grateful for the routine, you begin to set the tables and pour the water.
They don't let you cook anymore, not after you burned water during the first day.
Breakfast is simple and filling. A fruit-based grain meal porridge, with fried chunks of salted [meat] and a boiled, grey egg that someone brought home the other night from the stores in town. You're still a little hungry by the end of it, but you've come to accept that as part of your existence here. The food never fills you up.
Emma helps with the dishes and leaves quickly after that, heading to the communication's wing of the main building. You, on the other hand, head towards Brother Hop's room.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on February 24, 2020, 04:37:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 24, 2020, 04:52:59 pm
Give Brother Hop a debrief of yesterday's happenings
+1
Speak with honesty, but don't detail the fight itself unless asked. They may have taken us under their wing, but I still don't trust Mother Nicole and her underlings.
Post by: ZBridges on February 24, 2020, 05:11:54 pm
+1, Nicole's agenda is unclear at the moment and we should be wary.Give Brother Hop a debrief of yesterday's happenings
+1
Speak with honesty, but don't detail the fight itself unless asked. They may have taken us under their wing, but I still don't trust Mother Nicole and her underlings.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 24, 2020, 05:13:46 pm
+1+1, Nicole's agenda is unclear at the moment and we should be wary.Give Brother Hop a debrief of yesterday's happenings
+1
Speak with honesty, but don't detail the fight itself unless asked. They may have taken us under their wing, but I still don't trust Mother Nicole and her underlings.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 24, 2020, 09:13:50 pm
"Better be a good explanation, little [demon]." He produces a needle, some Kevlar thread, and a patch, starting to sew your armor back together. "Watch closely; you're doing it yourself next time."
You watch and give debrief at the same time. You and Emma Thornton were walking home from a bar when you suspected trouble. Five individuals tried to kidnap Emma and kill you. They wanted her as a bargaining chip for Emma's Father, Businessman Thornton. You killed all of them, one expiring after interrogation.
Brother Hop nods along, not looking particularly shocked or concerned. "And you got shot with a las-pistol, I'm assuming?"
You nod, sipping your tea.
"I would like to see your wound if you please."
You turn around and lift your shirt up over your back, showing him the small, healing crater in your back.
"If I didn't have to repair your armor, I'd say that was little less than a glancing blow. I'll let Mother Nicole know that Thornton owes us a favor." He sips his tea, gesturing you down. "Do you know what happens to people who get shot with las-guns and survive? Usually, they have a chunk missing from them for a long time. Most die of shock or bleed to death." He lifts the sleeve of his robe, showing you a crater not-fully filled in with flesh, a nasty, messy work of scar tissue. "I've had this for five years. Think on that, little [demon]. You're dismissed."
He shuts the door hard behind you, and you're left standing in the Academy's hallway.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 24, 2020, 10:43:41 pm
Otherwise, maybe we could use the opportunity to learn more about the world and its history.
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 24, 2020, 11:10:59 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 25, 2020, 12:22:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 25, 2020, 02:27:21 am
Spoiler: King/Lord of the Dead (click to show/hide)
The next four [demons] resemble the 'King of the Dead' in the description, the only thing decreasing is the death toll and the size. Each one is slain by a 'Great, Holy Crusader of the Crusade'. The sixth is different, however.
Spoiler: The Gluttonous Baron of Steel (click to show/hide)
Three more crusades, spanning from 100-200 years ago, were waged on the Kin of the Steel Baron until they were exterminated, their leaders each being classified as a [demon], and they, themselves are also considered [demons], but of a lesser variety. Each Crusade has a great 'Crusader.' You, on a lark, begin to look up these Crusaders and find that the vast majority of them were hard-faced men and women who sacrificed much for the Great Work. Every one of them has a prosthesis, ended up in a coma, or had to let hundreds of their own soldiers die. They all retired to cushy, desk jobs, far from the war as they could get.
Spoiler: The Death Child (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Twisted Wire (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Returning Plague (click to show/hide)
The book describes many battles against these [demons]. In them, numerical superiority won out; the threat neutralized via high casualties and organization. If the [Demon] retreated, wounded, it would return whole later, stronger, and more bloodthirsty than ever. Some reports mentioned great gluttony when these beasts were injured. Whole food stockpiles for entire towns devoured in a day. These creatures waged war on this planet on their own, destroying much in the pursuit of their own, mysterious goals. Some would scream and rant and yell insults, while others were dead silent in the throes of combat. The Twisted Wire begged for mercy as it lay dying. The rest of the book is a theological debate about what creates a demon, and you swiftly lose interest when pure theology comes into play.
One similarity, however, is that a demon always emerges from a comet of fire, striking the planet. Some of them, like the Baron, emerge from a cocoon of silvery metal.
Five hours have passed with your research into demons. It is currently noon of your second free day.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 25, 2020, 04:49:06 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 25, 2020, 06:19:01 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 25, 2020, 06:20:55 am
Very interesting. We did emerge from a comet of fire... so we probably are a [demon]? Maybe we should read up on angels as well.
Lets research everything!+1 to both
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 26, 2020, 12:22:23 am
[2] The first book is a compendium of debates by the great Elders of the Scholars; some of them are even directed toward the Pontifex of the Scholarly religion. It is a mess of organization, referencing works that the library you're in do not possess, quoting scriptures that have since been erased from the accumulated mess that is the Religion of SEED. There is one thing you learn, however. At the end of the book, many concepts that were brought up were struck down as unholy by the Pontifex, all of them receiving a direct refutation from SEED itself.
[20] McCreary, given that name by SEED, was the only [angel] you can find direct physical evidence off. Unlike the [demons], who, if you consult a map and have the correct material, you can plot their casualties and path. Which, you quickly notice, generally follow the same way-- all towards the holy city. Regardless, McCreary emerged from the inner sanctum of SEED, bathed in a golden light. SEED spoke for the first time in many years, pronouncing him the champion of Humanity, a grand [angel] to protect the people from the beast at the gate. McCreary tur the very earth into massive spears to impale the King of the Dead and his infected minions. It twisted and screeched, drawing down fire from the sky to strike the Holy City.
The battle lasted for days, the earth being ripped asunder from the forces involved, never healing, until the Great Beast was slain and its body burned. McCreary succumbed to his wounds in the Holy Chamber of SEED, his body preserved and in viewing.
[11] The world history book is dry, and dense, containing a complete rundown of a two thousand year history. With a glance to a local calendar, you notice it is ten years out of date. Man was created in year zero, demons first arrive a thousand years down the line, after the foundation of the great city and the scholars of SEED, seeking to oppose his holy work. A wide variety of Pontifexes came to power, were killed or died of old age, did great things, and the next generation reversed those works. The last one thousand years or so were the Crusades, a sporadic series of wars that lead to significant losses of human life.
[?] The next is a forbidden work, only for reference to deal with heretics, as the branding on the front states. You notice, after straining your eyes some, that it is written in a Scholar's Tongue that you would not have access to while attending the Academy. So, you do what any self-respecting scholar does, and read on. It supposes that the living SEED is not the true master of the Cosmos, but rather an ancient evil. That the true master of the universe is an entity representing the void between worlds, which even the SEED cannot conquer, despite its struggles. There's no evidence that it presents to prove this theory, and you cast it aside with a sigh.
"I didn't know you knew how to read," Emma calls to you, emerging into the library, arms crossed loosely over her robes. She seems hesitant. "I wanted to thank you for last night. I greatly appreciate what you did for me. Sorry if I was..." She trails off into silence, glancing over to you.
It is six pm in the evening, on the second day of your vacation.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 26, 2020, 12:33:49 am
Once we've expressed proper gratitude and relief and all those warm fuzzies, ask Emma what she knows of last night's attack-- and more importantly, what (if anything) we're going to do about it.
Post by: ZBridges on February 26, 2020, 12:48:33 am
Hugs. Now.+1
Once we've expressed proper gratitude and relief and all those warm fuzzies, ask Emma what she knows of last night's attack-- and more importantly, what (if anything) we're going to do about it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 26, 2020, 01:48:11 am
"You'll probably meet my brother." She looks uncomfortable, before hastily amending "I'm sure he'll like you. Just be as respectful... as required... of our respective stations."
"My brother will take care of the situation." She finishes, after trailing into an awkward silence, "One way or the other."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 26, 2020, 02:26:49 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 26, 2020, 08:33:05 am
"I think I saw him before I came to the Academy. He has a fine weapon. Is that a family heirloom or was it acquired in another way?"+1
Post by: Superdorf on February 26, 2020, 11:44:10 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 26, 2020, 12:25:33 pm
Am I right in thinking that Emma's family is the same "warlord" and co. that old guy wanted us to kill off?i think the guy you are talking about is the one the other posts are referring to
Post by: TamerVirus on February 26, 2020, 01:11:57 pm
Am I right in thinking that Emma's family is the same "warlord" and co. that old guy wanted us to kill off?Well they were Warlord and Heir at one point, but that seems to be a title. I think they were pushed out of the position by the current Warlord
Post by: ZBridges on February 26, 2020, 01:38:18 pm
Am I right in thinking that Emma's family is the same "warlord" and co. that old guy wanted us to kill off?
Yes, that's correct.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 26, 2020, 10:34:17 pm
"He got it back from the person who killed Polly." Emma twists her lips into a rueful smile, "She was his girlfriend and a friend of mine. Apparently, the bastard that killed her stole it, and he finally got it back." [4] There's no hint of dishonesty you can discern. She sighs, looking across the table at you, "She was the only one I could talk to before I met you. I hope he didn't make it quick when he killed that bastard."
You offer her a nod as you consider the Thorntons in general. Mother Nicole sent you a message about them, explaining who and what they were when you mentioned being friends with Emma. In the region now known as SEED's Holy Steelworks No' 09, they ran things as the local warlord before the Scholars, headed by Nicole Gainer, moved in. You know there was a brief conflict before the Thorntons legalized their operations beneath her, culminating in the Holy Steelworks No' 09 becoming an autonomous region just as you came to the Academy. William Thornton senior is the current family head, a brutal recluse of a man who reigned in terror for the longest time. His heir is William Thornton Junior, Emma's older brother, who's a chip off the old block. Just as crazy as the old man, if not more so. There isn't a Missus Thornton, as far as you know.
It isn't that hard to realize the principle in which the regions around the Holy City were civilized in much the same manner. Local warlords and bandit bands are given an option-- become legal business entities or die. It saves time, but this gives rise to an entire class of people with less than legal outlooks on business, however.
"You okay?" Emma asks.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 26, 2020, 11:09:13 pm
"I had Pollyanna's father come to me last year, before I joined with the Scholars-- this was right after Polly got murdered; the guy tried to pay me to avenge her death. I was scared, turned him down... should I have taken the job? I don't know! But it's nice to hear he got his vengeance one way or another."
Sigh. "It's a messed up world we live in."
Post by: ZBridges on February 26, 2020, 11:17:15 pm
"Yeah... just remembering."+1
"I had Pollyanna's father come to me last year, before I joined with the Scholars-- this was right after Polly got murdered; the guy tried to pay me to avenge her death. I was scared, turned him down... should I have taken the job? I don't know! But it's nice to hear he got his vengeance one way or another."
Sigh. "It's a messed up world we live in."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 26, 2020, 11:38:40 pm
"I had Pollyanna's father come to me last year before I joined with the Scholars-- this was right after Polly got murdered; the guy tried to pay me to avenge her death. I was scared, turned him down... should I have taken the job? I don't know! But it's nice to hear he got his vengeance one way or another."
Emma's eyes widen, and she shakes her head.
You sigh. "It's a messed up world we live in."
"Polly's dad had a rough time of it." Her face curls further into a frown as she explains. "He passed in a house fire-- not too long after we left."
You bet. A bell rings in the distance, but you ignore it. During a usual day at the Academy, it would call for grounds clear -- dinner time. Your stomach gives a growl.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 26, 2020, 11:59:13 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 27, 2020, 12:52:06 am
...
"Take care of yourself, OK? There's something rotten in this town, and I'm worried it's going to catch up to you one day."
...
"I'm worried it's going to catch up to us both."
Post by: ZBridges on February 27, 2020, 01:20:54 am
"Ahh, really? That's... I don't know what to think about that."+1
...
"Take care of yourself, OK? There's something rotten in this town, and I'm worried it's going to catch up to you one day."
...
"I'm worried it's going to catch up to us both."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 27, 2020, 01:52:51 am
"Ahh? That's... I don't know what to think about that."
"I think it's just sad."
"Hey, Emma? Take care of yourself, OK? There's something rotten in this town, and I'm worried it's going to catch up to you one day." She once more seems to deflate, last night weighing heavy on her mind. "I'm worried it's going to catch up to us both."
[16] She looks hurt when you say that, and instead of responding, she glances out the full-wall window into the courtyard. "What the f--"
Startled by the usually refined Emma cursing, you follow her gaze. Standing in the courtyard is a tall, blond young man. He's arguing with the gate guard, and Emma rises to her feet, rushing out of the library and down the stairs. You watch from the window as she breaks up the argument and hugs her older brother. The anger on his face vanishes as soon as the gate guard does, giving way to genuine concern.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 27, 2020, 01:57:36 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 27, 2020, 05:59:20 am
I think we should give them a moment to catch up, and then approach and introduce ourselves.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 27, 2020, 01:51:14 pm
"Ah, this must be Miss Gainer." Introductions do not appear to be necessary, "Your grandmother told me all about you when she let us know the situation." He extends his hand out for a handshake, and you take it. You notice, with mild amusement, that he's trying to break your hand.
"It's a pleasure." You reply with a smile, not giving him the satisfaction of seeing you wince. "You must be William Thornton Junior."
"Please, family friends call me Billy." He responds, returning your smile. "Hey, I saw a good restaurant back in town, how about I take you both to out for dinner before I take care of this situation?"
Emma looks surprised. "Isn't that dangerous?"
"Only a little. We got a few squads in the area, and the local gangs know better now."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 27, 2020, 01:57:55 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on February 27, 2020, 02:32:34 pm
"Very well-- Billy." Nod-'n-smile.+1
More food is always good
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 27, 2020, 03:10:29 pm
+1"Very well-- Billy." Nod-'n-smile.+1
More food is always good
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 27, 2020, 11:12:01 pm
A squad of six stands ready for William on the path out of the Academy. They wait a respectful distance away, clad in worn, thickly plated vests with battle-rifles on their backs. Even Emma seems surprised as the approach William, slipping one of these vests over his thin Body, tightening it. They hand him a rifle, and he flashes the two of you a smile, extending a heavy coat with a red thorn on it towards Emma. She hesitates, before trading her robe out. You notice that red thorn on everyone's vest, right on the shoulder. They surround you in a tight cluster, William at the head, defending you as they walk.
With a small nod, they turn down towards the city, everyone but William slipping on a helmet. When one of his squad offers him one, he shakes his head, waving it away. "They're supposed to see me, Gem."
You come into a dead-silent town. The festival is over, or everyone thought it best to pack up. William approaches one of the restaurants, trying the door only to find it locked. He knocks twice, and a frightened server rushes to open it. He smiles at her and claims a seat as his squad spreads out to cover the windows and entry-ways. You take a place next to Emma, who gives you a weak smile.
The server hands you a menu, giving you each a glass of a light beer before fleeing back into the kitchen.
Code: (menu) [Select]
[Barley-analog] stew, with soft white rolls
Stewed [beans] with smoked [veal-analog] shoulder, served with sweet honey rolls
Pureed [carrot-analog] soup, with freshly roasted baby [carrot-analog]
Roasted [ Large Insect] steak, with potatoes and assorted [vegetables], served with a [mead] vinegar sauce
Pan-fried [veal-analog] with a dried [fig-analog] sauce, soft [noodles] and sweet fermented [cabbage-analog]
[Butter]-poached smoked [fish] with assorted greens and young potatoes
Pan-fried [Large Insect] steak, topped with a honey-[wheat-analog] crust, served with a red wine sauce, assorted [vegetables] and mashed potatoes
"So, I speak for my father when I say that we greatly appreciate owing Mother Nicole a favor. Especially since she let us know there was an issue in the first place." William starts, giving the menu the briefest of glances, "I am glad Emma is safe. I'm also impressed that you managed to kill five people on your own."
"That's talent right there." He does a double-take at the menu, "Oh, they have fish. Have you guys tried fish? SEED just started distributing it. I hear it is a lot like [insect] meat, but softer."
"So, Pheobe, what does the Thornton family owe you for helping us with our problem?" He finally states, his eyes on you, a fixed smile curling his lips. " And would you like to help us more with it? I'd love to see you in action." There's a strange tone in his last statement, one that seems to annoy Emma, who shifts closer to you. "After all, wouldn't you want to get revenge on the people who tried to hurt your friend?"
"William," Emma warns bluntly.
The server returns, hurrying to your table with a pad of paper.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 27, 2020, 11:34:55 pm
I'm pretty sure that if we don't agree to help, we'll be in great danger, probably greater than if we agreed to assist. As for the reward, a higher-quality weapon or duster, or a large number of credits may be useful.
Alternatively, we could opt to forego the reward for now, instead having a favor from the Thorntons that we can keep as an ace in our pocket.
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 28, 2020, 12:16:59 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 12:58:14 am
"Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Thornton. I'll not ask compensation now for what I did last night-- I'm just glad the both of us survived it!-- but perhaps I'll ask a friendly favor of you one of these days. If ever I need it." (Smile.)
"Now. I'm not a killer by choice, Mr. Thornton, and I'm not one to seek vengeance-- I've only ever fought to protect myself and my own. Last night, I fought to protect a friend." (Nod to Emma.) "Still... perhaps you might explain to me what exactly I'd be doing, should I choose to aid you further with this problem of yours?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on February 28, 2020, 12:59:12 am
Nod-'n-smile to the server. "The pan-fried [large insect] steak, please."
"Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Thornton. I'll not ask compensation now for what I did last night-- I'm just glad the both of us survived it!-- but perhaps I'll ask a friendly favor of you one of these days. If ever I need it." (Smile.)
"Now. I'm not a killer by choice, Mr. Thornton, and I'm not one to seek vengeance-- I've only ever fought to protect myself and my own. Last night, I fought to protect a friend." (Nod to Emma.) "Still... perhaps you might explain to me what exactly I'd be doing, should I choose to aid you further with this problem of yours?"
+1 ignore mine
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 01:30:39 am
Nod-'n-smile to the server. "The pan-fried [large insect] steak, please."+1, but I would like to say "this problem of ours" rather than "yours" so that he knows we're on his side.
"Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Thornton. I'll not ask compensation now for what I did last night-- I'm just glad the both of us survived it!-- but perhaps I'll ask a friendly favor of you one of these days. If ever I need it." (Smile.)
"Now. I'm not a killer by choice, Mr. Thornton, and I'm not one to seek vengeance-- I've only ever fought to protect myself and my own. Last night, I fought to protect a friend." (Nod to Emma.) "Still... perhaps you might explain to me what exactly I'd be doing, should I choose to aid you further with this problem of yours?"
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 02:01:10 am
+1, but I would like to say "this problem of ours" rather than "yours" so that he knows we're on his side.
Wel-l-l, the thing is... we're not on his side. We're on Emma's side. For now, anyway. It's a subtle but rather important distinction. The instant we call this "our" problem, we've as good as bound ourselves to it-- and that's something I'm reluctant to do until I know what we're getting into.
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 02:13:37 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 02:17:36 am
...is it silly that we're spending so much time over this one word? :P
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 02:20:00 am
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 02:29:51 am
This whole affair has me on edge, all the same. I don't trust this family at all.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 28, 2020, 02:33:46 am
"The pan-fried [large insect] steak, please." You order confidently. Emma orders the fish and William the roast. The server gives an awkward bow to your table, something you've never seen any server do, before rushing off inelegantly to take the order of William's men.
"Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Thornton. I'll not ask compensation now for what I did last night-- I'm just glad the both of us survived it!-- but perhaps I'll ask a friendly favor of you one of these days. If ever I need it." You smile at him, and his own smile twitches.
"You are Black Nicky's grandkid alright, she said the same thing. Almost word for word, too." He retorts.
"Now. I'm not a killer by choice, Mr. Thornton, and I'm not one to seek vengeance-- I've only ever fought to protect myself and my own. Last night, I fought to protect a friend." You tick your head to Emma as you speak. She looks a little deflated at that but smiles at you anyway. She's hunched over her mug, her eyes focusing on it as she squeezes her thumb with her other hand. There's nervousness in her body language. "Still... perhaps you might explain to me what exactly I'd be doing, should I choose to aid you further with this problem of yours?"
"Well, to be real honest with you, Pheobe, I don't honestly know." He drains his mug and leans forward, "My plan is incredibly complicated and needs to be rehearsed a day before the operation!" He claims, then laughs a hollow laugh, further explaining with a more serious look on his face. "I'm going to knock out that Ai-Ai turret of his and shoot the shit out of his compound from the hover-ship. Throw a few grenades, really fucking level the place. Loud. Noisy. Proves the point you don't mess with the Thornton family. I doubt he has any other real firepower to mess with us. The local gangs are pissing their pants after this afternoon, and the Crusader Squad in town is sitting nice and cozy by their fireplaces with their suitcase of money."
Then William poses a question, not directly to you, but aside to Emma, who responds only with a scowl. "Now where in that plan could I fit a firebrand of a girl with no real training and a talent for violence? Should I give her some vital task or just let her ride shotgun and shoot people? Or maybe I should throw her into the mouth of the [demon] and see what comes out?"
The server hurries to the kitchen. You can hear your orders being called out, and the sudden rush of activity from within. She returns, asking, quietly, "More drinks?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 02:59:58 am
...
"I have to ask... why me? It seems to me you've more than enough firepower to handle this task without the aid of one more pistollier!"
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 03:09:37 am
"Perhaps a water, please."+1. I wonder if he actually has the intel to suggest that they have little in the way of firepower, or if he is just guessing.
...
"I have to ask... why me? It seems to me you've more than enough firepower to handle this task without the aid of one more pistollier!"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 28, 2020, 03:52:04 am
"Bring a bottle of something strong," William states, without looking at the girl.
"I have to ask... why me? It seems to me you've more than enough firepower to handle this task without the aid of one more pistollier!"
William laughs at that, leaning back in his chair. "Everyone dies one day, Little Nicky. Your grandmother. My father. Now, do you know what happens when Old Nicky dies? Her choice of successor gets respected because she's one of those Grand Crusaders. Biology dictates you. Do you know what happens when my dad dies? I get bumped up. Emma too."
Finally, "Honestly? I want to see what you're made of. I want to see if I can respect you, or if I'm going to have to break my sister's heart and put a hole in you."
[20] Emma flinches, but her scowl only deepens. She pulls a las-pistol from her belt, setting it on the table with her hand on the trigger-guard. William's eyes go wide, and he laughs. "Damn, she really likes you, doesn't she?"
He seems genuinely proud of the response he receives from Emma, who, you notice now, is staring ice-cold daggers at her older brother. With a smooth motion, he sets his own pistol on the table, 'For Polly' glinting in the dim light of the restaurant. The server wisely hovers out of range, and even the soldiers take note. They don't intervene, looking between Emma and William before returning to their gaze to their posts, pointedly looking away from the situation.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 04:02:19 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 28, 2020, 04:03:18 am
+1"Perhaps a water, please."+1. I wonder if he actually has the intel to suggest that they have little in the way of firepower, or if he is just guessing.
...
"I have to ask... why me? It seems to me you've more than enough firepower to handle this task without the aid of one more pistollier!"
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 04:20:51 am
To Emma: "Thank you."
To William: "I can't say I expected anything less of you, Billy Thornton... your family is a dangerous one."
"You want I should earn your respect? Very well-- I'll help you with this. Your troubles are Emma's troubles, so I'll help you with this. I want to help you with this."
"But. You try to hurt me? You try to hurt me to prove something to her? I will ruin you."
"Have we an accord?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 28, 2020, 04:25:22 am
Holy cow. We've earned ourselves some loyalty, and I have to say I'm surprised-- and pleased.+1,
To Emma: "Thank you."
To William: "I can't say I expected anything less of you, Billy Thornton... your family is a dangerous one."
"You want I should earn your respect? Very well-- I'll help you with this. Your troubles are Emma's troubles, so I'll help you with this. I want to help you with this."
"But. You try to hurt me? You try to hurt me to prove something to her? I will ruin you."
"Have we an accord?"
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 04:28:35 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 28, 2020, 04:42:13 am
I think the threat is important. Without it, we appear weak.fair, will edit
Post by: King Zultan on February 28, 2020, 07:55:20 am
+1Holy cow. We've earned ourselves some loyalty, and I have to say I'm surprised-- and pleased.+1
To Emma: "Thank you."
To William: "I can't say I expected anything less of you, Billy Thornton... your family is a dangerous one."
"You want I should earn your respect? Very well-- I'll help you with this. Your troubles are Emma's troubles, so I'll help you with this. I want to help you with this."
"But. You try to hurt me? You try to hurt me to prove something to her? I will ruin you."
"Have we an accord?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 28, 2020, 02:01:19 pm
"I can't say I expected anything less of you, Billy Thornton... your family is a dangerous one." Emma snorts, and one of the soldiers gives an awkward cough. "You want I should earn your respect? Very well-- I'll help you with this. Your troubles are Emma's troubles, so I'll help you with this. I want to help you with this." You take a deep breath, tamping down on a wave of rising anger in your gut.
"But. You try to hurt me? You try to hurt me to prove something to her? I will ruin you." [19] Emma shifts closer to you, nearly leaning on you. She looks uncomfortable but doesn't rebuke you and your threat. William watches his younger sister. "Have we an accord?"
"Well, Em," William begins, "Do I have an accord with her?"
"You do, Billy," Emma responds coldly.
"I guess I do then." William smiles, leaning back in his chair and holstering his pistol in his belt. Emma hesitates but does the same. The server hurries over with your drink order, setting a pitcher of water between you and Emma, and a bottle of clear liquor in front of William. The kitchen bustles open; three cooks emerge from the back with plates of steaming food. They set your respective orders on the table first, then hurry over to feed William's crew.
The insect steak's topping is sweet and crunchy to the steak's natural sweetness. The meat, you notice, is cooked all the way through, but still soft and melty. The vegetables and potatoes are a little salty, but the potatoes especially, are crisp and delicious. The sauce goes well with everything on the plate, a slight vinegary flavor to offset the sweetness of the protein. You all eat in silence. At one point, Emma asks to try yours in return for a bit of hers, and you promptly trade.
The fish is incredibly salty and smoked, but not dry, tasting more of butter and fish than anything else. It too melts after you chew for just a moment, and a resinous after-taste fills your senses. You have to drink some water to further enjoy your meal, but Emma seems to have no problems.
"So," William asks, after clearing his plate, "What do you think you can do in that plan of mine, Pheb?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 03:45:22 pm
(no pressure :-X )
"Well now... I'm stronger than I look, quick on the uptake, and willing to kill." (Grin.) "Nothing special, but I imagine I'll keep pace with any of your hired soldiers just fine."
Post by: ZBridges on February 28, 2020, 04:35:56 pm
This is it. This is the bit where we make ourselves look tough without making ourselves look supernatural-- where we earn respect without drawing undue curiosity. We could have a powerful ally here... or a terrible, terrible enemy. I am open to suggestions here people.+1.
(no pressure :-X )
"Well now... I'm stronger than I look, quick on the uptake, and willing to kill." (Grin.) "Nothing special, but I imagine I'll keep pace with any of your hired soldiers just fine."
I trust this guy the least I have ever trusted anything, but we happen to have mutual enemies. I think we can work with him as long as we are wary. One option might be to sneak in and attempt to assasinate their leaders while he's putting on that display of force, or simply assisting with attacking from the gunship.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 28, 2020, 04:39:54 pm
+1, time for sneaky killingThis is it. This is the bit where we make ourselves look tough without making ourselves look supernatural-- where we earn respect without drawing undue curiosity. We could have a powerful ally here... or a terrible, terrible enemy. I am open to suggestions here people.+1.
(no pressure :-X )
"Well now... I'm stronger than I look, quick on the uptake, and willing to kill." (Grin.) "Nothing special, but I imagine I'll keep pace with any of your hired soldiers just fine."
I trust this guy the least I have ever trusted anything, but we happen to have mutual enemies. I think we can work with him as long as we are wary. One option might be to sneak in and attempt to assasinate their leaders while he's putting on that display of force, or simply assisting with attacking from the gunship.
Post by: Superdorf on February 28, 2020, 04:48:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 29, 2020, 01:30:12 am
"Maybe you could." He scratches at his face, unconvinced.
"Or, how would you like me to sneak in and put a hole in the head of your quarry before you level the place, so you know for sure he's dead without having to stay longer than you need to?"
That gets a reaction out of him, and he stares intently at you. He explains, slowly and deliberately, his permanent smile fading. "When Families like ours go to war, Phebe, we don't half-ass it. There are long histories of blood feuds that the Scholars never recorded. All because a family didn't have the guts to finish the job. If you do anything with us, I want you to remember this-- we kill them all. Daughters, sons, babies, children. All of them. It doesn't matter. Tonight the Moore family dies out."
[1] William gestures at Gem, who draws out a folder from her backpack. He looks through it with a crooked smile. "Moore recently remarried. His beautiful young wife had a bouncing baby boy about two months ago." He peels the cork from the vodka, downing a slug and turning his gaze back to you. Emma shifts uncomfortably, looking down.
"Please don't." Emma murmurs, hesitantly, earning her a scowl from William.
"She volunteered." William retorts, "Blood for blood. She'll earn a thorn if she does. Daddy will be happy with you. too, Emma, having found someone to do what you could never do." Emma looks like she's just been struck, but doesn't say a word. "You take down the prominent members of the Moore family, and you'll be considered part of the Family."
[1] Emma doesn't say anything else, merely reaching over to squeeze your arm.
"It's a damn good idea, Pheobe." William states, taking another shot. "I can get you some Ballistic to help take the edge off the killings, too, if you need it."
The server interrupts your conversation, offering a dessert of fresh [fruit] and soft cheeses.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 02:02:53 am
If we back down now, we're going to come off as weak; the Thornton family being as it is, weak probably means dead-- or at least, in tremendous peril. If we take the job in its entirety... we'll become a Thornton of the worst kind. I expect Emma would come to fear us as she fears her brother, in time.
I need to think about this. :-\
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 03:02:16 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 29, 2020, 03:39:51 am
[8]Vertigo overcomes you, and you shift your weight to avoid falling from your chair. Your vision blurs for a micro-second.
In your mind's eye, a number of possibilities diverge from this moment into near-infinitesimal fractals of futures; some end in flashes of Gold, some end in Blood, some, in Fire. Fewer still are the paths that drift out from these, into the void of darkness. Your head throbs painfully as you try, and fail, to focus on any one point, and you're left behind by your racing mind, blinking at William as he orders the dessert.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 03:57:40 am
Alternatively, we could attempt to use the favor we got from the Thorntons. Tell them to spare the wife and son, but keep them under heavy guard. Offer to kill them ourselves should they become a problem, and point out that they may be useful hostages.
Post by: King Zultan on February 29, 2020, 05:58:25 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 29, 2020, 08:07:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 29, 2020, 02:29:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 29, 2020, 02:39:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 02:40:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 02:44:07 pm
"You want to do me a favor for helping your sister with those goons last night? Raise the child. Give him the Thornton name in my place, and take him for your own. A life for a life."
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 02:58:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 03:08:19 pm
"...The father. The father, I will kill. Not the wife. Not the child. I've done some killing lately, but I'll not have innocent blood on my hands."
"You want to do me a favor for helping your sister with those goons last night? Raise the child. Give him the Thornton name in my place, and take him for your own. A life for a life. He'll serve as a hostage if need be, and I'll kill him myself if he ever raises a hand against you."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on February 29, 2020, 03:08:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 03:08:59 pm
Right then, revised:+1
"...The father. The father, I will kill. Not the wife. Not the child. I've done some killing lately, but I'll not have innocent blood on my hands."
"You want to do me a favor for helping your sister with those goons last night? Raise the child. Give him the Thornton name in my place, and take him for your own. A life for a life. He'll serve as a hostage if need be, and I'll kill him myself if he ever raises a hand against you."
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 03:30:17 pm
He mentioned a feud earlier, the other family is likely planning to kill off the Thorntons too
And we're gonna wipe them out swift and brutal-like-- but the child isn't planning anything, is he? He's a victim, and I can't in good conscience be the one to end him.
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 03:42:09 pm
Post by: Superdorf on February 29, 2020, 04:28:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on February 29, 2020, 08:04:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 01, 2020, 12:00:03 am
"You want to do me a favor for helping your sister with those goons last night? Raise the child. Give him the Thornton name in my place, and take him for your own. A life for a life. He'll serve as a hostage if need be, and I'll kill him myself if he ever raises a hand against you.
[2] William stares at you, surprised and shocked by your reluctance. Then, he laughs. "Okay." He agrees, rapping on the table with his knuckles, laughing, "I'll raise him. I'll give him all the training a young Thornton gets. I'll be the person he looks up to the most in this world—the one he respects and loves. I'll give you plenty of time to bond and make friends with him, too. Then, when he turns sixteen or seventeen, I'll put a pistol in his hands and tell him who killed -both- of his parents. His cousins, the people who would have raised him." The smile is gone in a flash. "You. You'll take the blame for this whole operation in his mind."
"I'll wager he tries to kill you-- and fails. And you'll gun him down to survive. You seem to wager that he'll appreciate being left alive enough to forgive you. So, yeah, I'll take that wager with those odds. Will you?"
He slumps back in his chair, drawing two auto-syringes from his belt and tossing them on the table towards you. "The woman dies with her husband, and I'll take the baby in. Unless you decide you don't want to deal with that trouble. If the mother lives, and the child lives with her, this becomes incredibly complicated. My father will get involved. He doesn't have my kindness and sympathy."
"And hey, if the kid dies, well, that's one less problem -you- have to worry about down the line."
The server brings out the collection of freshly cut [fruit] and cheeses, three plates, one for each of you. Emma looks at it morosely, silently, before resuming her watch on you with a worried look on her face.
"I don't want him dead because I like killing children, Pheobe, Emma. I want him dead because babies grow up, and orphans are full of resentment."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 12:22:01 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 01, 2020, 12:24:25 am
"Now, care to explain to me the nature of these syringes here?"
This compromise of ours stinks, and it's gonna mess up our life something awful down the road, but it's the only way I can see right now to escape this affair in relative safety and with a relatively clean conscience. The mother's probably got no hand in this, so that's gonna be straight-up terrible, but... a life for a life, yes? :-\
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 12:44:21 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 01, 2020, 04:23:05 am
I can live with that, but it may damage our relationship with Emma beyond hope of repair. My tentative inclination is to take the job.completely. All must die
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 04:26:31 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 01, 2020, 04:31:51 am
Post by: TamerVirus on March 01, 2020, 08:48:30 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 01, 2020, 01:28:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 01, 2020, 01:43:17 pm
Thornton mentioned the results. Leaving the enemy alive will not help
It's not "the enemy". It's a baby. If the kid wants to get himself killed trying to avenge his relatives when he grows up, fine-- but he deserves to have that choice.
If we take this job in its entirety, our noble little [demon] becomes a [demon] in earnest. We wind up a Thornton of the nastiest kind, one more family figure for our friend to fear. I can't support that, not if we have anything resembling a viable alternative; hence, the compromise.
Post by: King Zultan on March 01, 2020, 02:23:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 01, 2020, 04:25:43 pm
"It's called Ballistic. I'm sure the Scholars and our lab-rats have a technical name for it, but they're not in charge of selling it." He turns one of the auto-syringes over in his hands, the light catching the clear liquid within. The auto-injector is cheap plastic, little more than housing for the syringe. "It's a combat stimulant we designed. We're in the final phases of testing it before we ask Mother Nicole to let us sell to SEED. It takes about two minutes to take effect, we find. Minimal side effects."
Gem, you assume William's second, finishes her meal and approaches the table with a heavy vest and a battle-rifle. She drops them down for you, pulling three spare rifle magazines from her kit to set on the table. William draws a crudely drawn map from the folder, gesturing to a corner of the compound. "Before you do anything, I need you to disable the AA cannon on the eastern side of the compound. It will be under heavy guard. After that, we'll provide air-support until you are a safe distance away. Then we'll level the place, swing around, and pick you up."
[8] You notice they don't have any intel on the inside of the building, or on the specifics of the compound itself. Just on general distances, but, you familiarize yourself with the information as best you can. The map does have distinct buildings labeled, such as the Villa, various outbuildings, the generator room, etc. Committing them to memory, you ask very few questions. Something, however, catches your eye, a building labeled 'lab.'
[12] When you ask William about it, he changes the subject evasively. "I recommend taking a det-pack from the hover-craft for the cannon. It won't do any good if someone climbs back on it again. We'll give you a flaregun so you can signal us. However, you do it is up to you, don't forget to use that flare."
"If you die, or are heavily injured, try to find cover before five in the morning. That's your time limit. Any questions? If not, we should get ready to go."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 01, 2020, 04:47:52 pm
Grab the syringes and gear. Don the vest.
I've probably forgotten something worth asking folks, so do chip in if anything comes to mind! :-X
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 05:04:27 pm
"Yeah, I'll be sure to find cover if I die." (Smirk a little.) "No questions. Let's do this."+1. Nothing comes to mind at the moment.
Grab the syringes and gear. Don the vest.
I've probably forgotten something worth asking folks, so do chip in if anything comes to mind! :-X
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 01, 2020, 05:07:26 pm
"Yeah, I'll be sure to find cover if I die." (Smirk a little.) "No questions. Let's do this."+1
Grab the syringes and gear. Don the vest.
I've probably forgotten something worth asking folks, so do chip in if anything comes to mind! :-X
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 01, 2020, 07:23:42 pm
Gem gestures for you to turn around, and pulls hard on your vest when you do, double-checking the straps. She hides a stray strand of hair for you beneath your mask. "You're good." She murmurs brusquely.
With a nod of approval, William carefully slots the intel back into the folder, handing it back to Gem. He stretches out as he rises, nodding to Emma, who heaves a sigh, watching as he leaves. She waits until his back is turned, and the server visibly relaxes, before pulling a wad of bills from her coat. She tosses the pile on the table, leaving right behind her brother, you in tow.
Tonight faint snow descends on the town. The squad walks in dead-silence, keeping watch on Emma, who shivers in the cold. You, once more, are an after-thought. So, without direction, you copy the squad-mates, moving to body-guard Emma. William drinks as he walks, his smile a twisted, fixed thing on his face. More like a mask than an expression.
It takes little time to reach the Academy, and Emma hesitates at the gateway. With a defiant glance to her brother, she steps forward to hug you tightly, whispering in your ear as she does. [14] "Come back safe. That's all that matters to me."
[4]"I'll bring her body back if she dies, so don't you worry, Em." William calls out, annoyed. "We've got to go."
Any parting words?
William's squad leads you. The hovercraft is concealed in a dip in the hills surrounding the town. Crates and material surrounding the craft, and Gem peels one open, pulling out a square, plastic case with a timer on it, about the size of your palm. "Don't get it too hot now," Gem warns, softly. "Its shelf-stable, but extreme heat can still detonate it. Be careful."
William gives you a bearing and a compass to follow it. He looks unconcerned, taking a seat on a crate. "It's about a thirty-minute walk from here, over the hills."
[-]Shouldering your new rifle, you start your trek, only needing to glance at the compass on occasion, more out of doubt than anything. Your sense of navigation hasn't changed, and it's easy to differentiate where in the magnetic field you are supposed to go towards. Then you lay eyes on the compound. They didn't tell you it's built atop a low hill, or that there was a large cement wall surrounding it. Or that it was set dead-center in the middle of a patch of fallow farmland. A single pathway leads into it, and it looks like a cross between a personal villa and a military base. A beautiful, ornate house sits in the center, overlooking a carefully maintained pond and lawn. After that, several buildings that look like bunkhouses sprout out of the ground, the lab, and soldier's living quarters if you recall correctly. That large building there with the heavy reinforcement must be the personal reactor.
[4] Looking towards the eastern wall, you notice the AA cannon. It looks expensive and new. A short-barrel angled up towards the sky is all you can see of it—a countermeasure to the Thorntons. You cannot tell if it is actively staffed or not.
[1] You crouch hidden in the copse of trees, surrounded by fallow farmland.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 07:36:41 pm
As for what to do now, I'm not sure. It may make sense to walk the perimeter and check for patrols, surveillance, and gaps or other defects in the wall. However, there isn't any cover to hide us if we did such a thing...
Post by: Superdorf on March 01, 2020, 07:43:07 pm
Unshoulder our rifle and set it to full-auto. Look over the wall from our hiding place; attempt to identify potential entryways.
Post by: ZBridges on March 01, 2020, 07:54:11 pm
Murmur: "I'll do my best-- you keep safe too." Return hugs.+1. I would like to add to that: also determine if any suitable cover exists, or if the base truly is entirely surrounded by open space.
Unshoulder our rifle and set it to full-auto. Look over the wall from our hiding place; attempt to identify potential entryways.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 01, 2020, 10:14:07 pm
+1Murmur: "I'll do my best-- you keep safe too." Return hugs.+1. I would like to add to that: also determine if any suitable cover exists, or if the base truly is entirely surrounded by open space.
Unshoulder our rifle and set it to full-auto. Look over the wall from our hiding place; attempt to identify potential entryways.
Post by: Superdorf on March 01, 2020, 10:43:10 pm
+1Murmur: "I'll do my best-- you keep safe too." Return hugs.+1. I would like to add to that: also determine if any suitable cover exists, or if the base truly is entirely surrounded by open space.
Unshoulder our rifle and set it to full-auto. Look over the wall from our hiding place; attempt to identify potential entryways.
Solid addendum. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 12:06:13 am
The rifle reactor hums to life as you flip the safety switch to 'full.'
[11] You scan the surroundings of the Compound. The wall surrounds the entire thing, but you notice a blind-spot from the guard towers, in that they're a bit too tall to ultimately see the base of the hill on the western side. It's newly constructed as well, no places collapsing or falling in on itself. The gate or over the top are the only two options you can see.
[10] The farmlands surround it entirely, providing no real cover for you to lose yourself in-- or so you think, until you notice the irrigation ditches that run in across the field, intersecting and raising the land. Its a stretch, to be sure, but the walls aren't big enough to patrol on. The towers are your only concern. You calculate its better to be in a ditch getting shot at than on open terrain. With luck, you might be able to get to the wall before someone in one of the towers notices you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 12:15:40 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 02, 2020, 05:41:52 am
It looks like we should attempt to covertly make our way to the wall near the western hill via the irrigation ditches.+1 if we still are undetected, let’s make our way to the AA cannon
Post by: King Zultan on March 02, 2020, 06:20:32 am
+1It looks like we should attempt to covertly make our way to the wall near the western hill via the irrigation ditches.+1 if we still are undetected, let’s make our way to the AA cannon
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 04:49:39 pm
:(
[20] With a grunt, you lower yourself down to your hands and knees crawl through the irrigation ditches. You're thankful for the night, and the lack of a moon in the sky. This is a perfect night. The snow covers your back in time, but you don't falter, continuing to drag yourself through the trench. At one point, you think you hear an alarm.
You freeze in place, not even daring to glance up for fear of a las-gun blast. But, there's no reply, so you crawl on. You get to the edge of the trench, and the edge of the farmland surrounding the compound, and with a heavy breath, you break across open terrain.
There's no response from the compound.
[20] Lifting your head up, to look at the tower, you notice something else-- there's nobody keeping watch. The realization hits you like a bag of bricks. They're not expecting to be attacked right now. You almost laugh at the stupidity of the situation. You calmly walk over to the eastern side of the compound wall. There's someone manning the cannon, at least, you notice because the barrel just tracked upwards towards a star, before being swung lower again.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 05:14:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 05:33:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 05:37:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 05:39:32 pm
I'm not sure, but I think it makes sense to sneak up on the cannon operator, plant the charge somewhere that isn't visible from the perspective of the cannoneer, and then silently make our way back to the western wall to take cover before detonating it.
Seems a solid plan-- only thing is, I'm wondering whether it's better to kill the cannoneer or no. On the one hand, if we leave him alive he could spot us and holler for the guards-- on the other hand, killing him might prove noisy of its own accord. Not sure yet what's the best course of action there.
Attempt to discern from our current position: is there any point along the length of the wall we could conceivably scale without specialized equipment?
EDIT: Ninja'd! :P
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 05:40:34 pm
Aw yes+1I'm not sure, but I think it makes sense to sneak up on the cannon operator, plant the charge somewhere that isn't visible from the perspective of the cannoneer, and then silently make our way back to the western wall to take cover before detonating it.
Seems a solid plan-- only thing is, I'm wondering whether it's better to kill the cannoneer or no. On the one hand, if we leave him alive he could spot us and holler for the guards-- on the other hand, killing him might prove noisy of its own accord. Not sure yet what's the best course of action there.
Attempt to discern from our current position: is there any point along the length of the wall we could conceivably scale without specialized equipment?
EDIT: Ninja'd! :P
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 06:01:05 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 06:24:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 06:30:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 06:33:37 pm
Just in case we could avoid the possibility of being detected.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 06:50:41 pm
[16] Your faint headache throbs, and you calculate that, as a very loud, flashy alternative, that overloading your las-pistol would destroy the wall and whatever is behind it with burning hellfire. It would take out the cannon, the crew, the wall, and a large chunk of the ground itself.
[13] You seem fine.
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 06:57:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 07:10:28 pm
We have a las-rifle, so even if the overload would destroy the las-pistol, we would still have a suitable weapon.
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 07:26:56 pm
Did we want to go do our assassination thingummy soon as we've blown up the cannon? I'm not clear how that's supposed to go.
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 07:33:40 pm
We could take our time on the assassination if desired, as long as we finish before 5. However, it makes sense to capitalize on the air-support provided by the gunship. You make a good point about the overload expending a lot of energy. I'll think it over a bit and make a decision this evening whether to support or not.
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 07:41:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 07:53:26 pm
Overloading would solve this problem beautifully... but I'd rather save that for when we're dealing with something a bit more urgent. For now, let's just quietly make our climb into the courtyard from a covered location, preferably far from any potential guards.+1, makes sense, no need to expend ourselves unnecessarily. Better to save it for a crux.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 08:20:03 pm
[13+2 vs 12] You grunt as the air is knocked from your chest, heaving yourself over the wall with minimal difficulty. No alarm sounds, and no one comes to investigate as you drop down on to the other side, just behind the reactor building. The closer you are, the more you can feel the faint hum of the fusion generator in your body. It's strong, much stronger than the hum of the pistol reactors. It makes your teeth ache.
[18] The compound is a motley collection of outbuildings surrounding the Villa, most of them are pre-fabs you notice, in various states of disrepair. The guards that should be patrolling are instead drinking by a localized heating system in the center of the compound. They laugh and joke, and you watch as they change out the guard on the AA gun frequently. No one even thinks to look in your direction.
[19] It takes you a moment to notice with the 'noise' of the main power supply, but the AA gun doesn't have a reactor. Instead, you notice a thick conduit of cables leaving the reactor building, snaking their way to the cannon. They have it based on an external power supply.
A calculation forms; these men and women are incredibly undisciplined. In a direct battle with the Thorntons, they would lose, but the Thorntons have to ship in much more material than the Moores. The AA cannon is the center of the Moore's current plan-- they have no backup plan as far as you can see. Whereas you noticed several mortars at the Thornton base-camp, sniper rifles and plenty of other guerrilla-style materials.
William didn't need to send you in for anything.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 08:33:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 08:41:22 pm
Wow... I was really expecting more from these guys.
A combination of gloriously lucky rolls and preexisting circumstances, methinks! I'm quite pleased. :))
Should we just cut the cables or sabotage the power source, or continue with the explosive?
I'm just gonna roll with the explosive plan, since we have to shoot off a flare gun anyway-- we can use the blast to cover our escape.
Tentative plan:
Keep to the shadows. Make our way slow and careful-like to the AA gun, keeping a close eye on any nearby guards (and the cannon operator); if one should happen to sight us, shoot him down before he can react. Place our det-pack somewhere it'll wreck the cannon real good, set its detonation timer to perhaps 60 seconds, and return to the spot of wall we scaled just now.
When the explosive goes off, assuming it totals the gun as it's supposed to, consider: are we close enough to the center of the compound to shoot down the guards with any modicum of accuracy? If so, do-- go full-auto on their sorry hides while they're distracted, then shoot off the flare-gun once they're dead and climb back out of the compound! If not, just use the distraction of the explosion to shoot off our flare-gun and make our climb.
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 08:45:48 pm
+1Wow... I was really expecting more from these guys.
A combination of gloriously lucky rolls and preexisting circumstances, methinks! I'm quite pleased. :))Should we just cut the cables or sabotage the power source, or continue with the explosive?
I'm just gonna roll with the explosive plan, since we have to shoot off a flare gun anyway-- we can use the blast to cover our escape.
Tentative plan:
Keep to the shadows. Make our way slow and careful-like to the AA gun, keeping a close eye on any nearby guards (and the cannon operator); if one should happen to sight us, shoot him down before he can react. Place our det-pack somewhere it'll wreck the cannon real good, set its detonation timer to perhaps 60 seconds, and return to the spot of wall we scaled just now.
When the explosive goes off, assuming it totals the gun as it's supposed to, consider: are we close enough to the center of the compound to shoot down the guards with any modicum of accuracy? If so, do-- go full-auto on their sorry hides while they're distracted, then shoot off the flare-gun once they're dead and climb back out of the compound! If not, just use the distraction of the explosion to shoot off our flare-gun and make our climb.
Post by: VoidSlayer on March 02, 2020, 08:58:29 pm
Are we sure these guys are the ones the interrogation gave us?
Maybe set the explosive for a long time, it doesn't need to go off until later. Then go into the house and see if we can get some information or see who is around.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 02, 2020, 08:59:12 pm
Could we shove the cannoneer inside the cannon and shoot it at the power source? Killing two birds with one stone
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 09:36:02 pm
[2] The cannon is, unfortunately, not big enough to shove someone into. It also doesn't have the ability to shoot at anything lower than the horizon. You could probably use it to destroy several buildings if you so choose, but aiming it downward to shoot at people would be a difficult task.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 09:38:01 pm
We may need to perform some interrogation to determine what is going on here. Very strange.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2020, 09:44:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 09:51:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 02, 2020, 10:09:34 pm
I'm not sure that we should just unload on these guys. It looks like they could do some damage. Should we perform the assassinations first, perhaps after disabling the cannon's power source, and then deal with the cannon in a more permanent fashion as a parting gift (only if circumstances allow)? We could then use the flare and get out of here.wjat if we aim the cannon straight up, allowing it to effectively shoot itself? Let’s assassinate then deal with the oiwer
Post by: Superdorf on March 02, 2020, 10:25:25 pm
Still, I suppose it would be rather reckless to just open fire on an entire contingent of guards...
Revised plan:
Keep to the shadows. Make our way slow and careful-like to the AA gun, keeping a close eye on any nearby guards (and the cannon operator); if one should happen to sight us, shoot him down before he can react. Place our det-pack somewhere it'll wreck the cannon real good, set its detonation timer to perhaps 60 seconds, and return to the spot of wall we scaled just now.
When the explosive goes off (assuming it totals the gun as it's supposed to), shoot off the flare-gun and make our climb.
Post by: ZBridges on March 02, 2020, 10:39:37 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 02, 2020, 10:52:24 pm
Revised plan:+1
Keep to the shadows. Make our way slow and careful-like to the AA gun, keeping a close eye on any nearby guards (and the cannon operator); if one should happen to sight us, shoot him down before he can react. Place our det-pack somewhere it'll wreck the cannon real good, set its detonation timer to perhaps 60 seconds, and return to the spot of wall we scaled just now.
When the explosive goes off (assuming it totals the gun as it's supposed to), shoot off the flare-gun and make our climb.
Post by: King Zultan on March 03, 2020, 03:29:17 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 03, 2020, 03:53:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 03, 2020, 10:27:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 03, 2020, 11:58:10 am
[7+2 vs. 7] You inch your way through the shadows, going around the long way towards the cannon. For a brief second, you almost bump into a drunken soldier stumbling back from relieving himself. He doesn't notice you, however, and you duck down lower behind the crate you're behind.
[10+2 vs. 10]The turret is tucked up against the eastern wall. The gunner on duty lounges haphazardly on the seat, occasionally adjusting the sight for no real reason. He looks longingly at the grouping around the heating element and takes a swig from a beer bottle. He doesn't notice you coming up behind him, either, lost in the bottle as he is.
[9+2 vs. 10] Despite being drunk, he twists when you step close, opening his mouth-- until you bash him in the face hard with the butt of your rifle. He goes down like a wet sack of bricks, his pistol clattering free from his hand.
[10] You fumble with the det-pack, switching the timer on and hastily shoving it into the targeting and control apparatus of the gun. It begins to count down, and you scatter, slipping back the way you came.
[5+2 vs. 6] A cry goes up from the guards. Somebody noticed something. Maybe you fleeing, maybe the det-pack, or perhaps the unconscious body of the gunner. It doesn't last long, though, before the det-pack explodes in a burst of concussive energy. You glance back, noting with satisfaction the shattered glass of the turret's lens and leaking coolant element.
[7+1 vs. 7] That sobers up the guards, who quickly sound the alarm, but its too late, you're back over the wall with a grunt of exertion. With shaking hands, you pull out the flare-gun and fire it into the air. The bright red light shines down over the compound, illuminating the panic-stricken guards. Commanders begin to yell orders, and you take a moment to move away from where you just shot the flare.
You, and everybody else in the compound, can hear the faint roar of the gunship in the distance.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 03, 2020, 01:02:39 pm
Let the gunship wreck some stuff, then make our way sneaky-like to the Villa with rifle in hand! We've got an assassination to perform.
Post by: ZBridges on March 03, 2020, 01:03:40 pm
Beautiful.+1
Let the gunship wreck some stuff, then make our way sneaky-like to the Villa with rifle in hand! We've got an assassination to perform.
Post by: Superdorf on March 03, 2020, 01:22:00 pm
Hmm. I guess I worry too much.
Hey now, the last time we rolled poorly in a fight we got half our spinal cord shot out from under us. There's a reason we've been worrying about stuff-- lasguns are scary! :-X
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 03, 2020, 02:59:20 pm
+1Beautiful.+1
Let the gunship wreck some stuff, then make our way sneaky-like to the Villa with rifle in hand! We've got an assassination to perform.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 03, 2020, 11:19:41 pm
William stands, illuminated by an inner light, highlighting his fair features and blond hair. He's smiling, laughing as he tosses grenades and picks off any who might try to stand and fight.
[8] You pause, appreciating the sight. William stands proud and triumphant, even as las-gun shots ping into the armor of the ship by his head. He never stops laughing, never stops shooting, and never stops commanding.
[12+1 vs. 17] You sneak around the wall, hopping over it near the Villa-- a las-gun shot cracks into the concrete beside you, and you fling yourself to the ground, swinging your rifle up and around.
[11+1 vs. 2] A young guard tracks her rifle to follow you. You're too fast, and spray her torso and thighs with automatic laser pulses. She still stands after a shot hits her chest. She has a thick vest on, but the ones that caught her thighs snap her back. You scramble up into cover as she goes into shock. You're sure she's bled to death by the time you check your fingers and toes.
Three others look to the commotion, noticing their fallen comrade.
[10] The attack ship takes this moment to hover nearby, blowing away two of them with concentrated fire. [17-2] The guards fire back, holding their position. One aims down his barrel to fire at you, rifle lifting--
[13 vs ...1] Holes appear in the guard's chest in a burst of bloody steam as you hold the trigger down. He dies.
[15+2 vs 18][Hitloc:12] You're knocked back by a blow to your stomach, the wind knocked out of you all at once. You're stunned, but not enough to stop you from ducking back into cover to feel at the wound. A gaping hole has been blown in your vest and the coat beneath, cracks radiating outward from entry point. The bottom plates are shattered too, vaguely hot to the touch in that curious las-gun way. As for your flesh-- you aren't bleeding. The armor in your stomach area is compromised, however. Another shot will go right through.
While you were making sure your insides were still inside you, the gunship has killed the other guard in a hail of las-fire. You rise, tipping a salute to William. He nods his head towards the Villa.
[20] No other guards await you before you reach the wide double doors to the Villa. You find them locked and almost start laughing. [4] Blood is rushing in your ears as you lift your rifle and blow the lock clean off. You kick the door down-- and find two guards, looking stunned.
[5,1 vs. 5] One blinks, the other starts lifting his rifle the same time you do.
[20 vs. 10] You hold the trigger down as you lift-- he tries to line up a shot. That's the only thing that saves you. You kill both of them, their blood splashing on your rifle, on you, as you gun them down. You're sure they're dead-- no one can have that many holes in them and still be alive.
The Villa is open before you. The gunship provides cover at your back.
Somewhere in its depths, a baby begins to cry.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 03, 2020, 11:36:36 pm
Advance into the villa. Keep our rifle up.
Post by: ZBridges on March 03, 2020, 11:38:42 pm
Quick, if we can: reverse our vest back-to-front, so that the damaged bit is behind us. We're more likely to get shot in the gut than the back right now anyhow, and we've still got our duster on the right way just in case.+1. I think it makes sense to proceed carefully and systematically, room by room, while keeping our ears open for anyone that tries to run.
Advance into the villa. Keep our rifle up.
Also, based on the status... we appear to be liking this a bit too much.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 12:19:17 am
Creative!
[-] You duck into a bit of cover-- the first room you can find, and adjust your vest, pulling it around so the thick band that once protected your lower back now protects your abdomen. The vest now, however, feels a bit more encumbering to move in.
Rising, you lift your rifle, stepping down the ornately decorated and lavish insides of the Villa hallway. You check each room, and each room is more empty and well-furnished than the last. You advance up the stairs with careful steps.
[1/1d10][2 vs 2] A single guard stands at the top of the staircase. He misses you, you miss him. It's an awkward moment for both of you.
[13 vs. 1] The retort of your las-gun sends him sprawling for cover, shattering his vest and blowing a crater in his thigh.
[13] He scurries behind cover, breathing hard, and you sit still, ducking beneath his line of sight using the staircase.
[13 vs 13-3] You both exchanged fire again, his went wide, but your's turns his arm to mush and shatters the wood paneling. He drops his gun, and you rise, approaching the door he was guarding. The baby is continuing to cry, and from within you hear shuffling. The other door is open, and a man sits in a chair, highlighted by a bank of security cameras, which show the compound in all its devastation. He doesn't seem to notice you. Or chooses not to.
[8]The guard stares up at you-- and with his last breath, spits at you. You put him out of his misery.
[20]The man speaks when his guard dies and you catch him watching where you're standing through a camera.
"Ah, so I'm assuming you're the Thornton negotiator?" There's an awful lot of confidence in his voice as he addresses you. "I'm Johnny Moore-- what will tonight cost us, Thornton?"
Someone is desperately trying to shush the baby in the other room.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 12:32:42 am
I've been playing Dwarf Fortress for the past few hours, so... I'm just feeling brutally pragmatic.
No words. Gun Moore down.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 01:05:44 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 01:13:03 am
Probably unnecessary nervousness, but inspect him carefully, as much of him as is visible at least, for something like a deadman's switch. If possible, get a look at his hands.
Eh, +1-- be quick about it tho, lest Moore prepare something in the interim. If we don't spot anything, shoot him down.
We could always shoot off our overload if we want him dead-for-sure. I don't expect we'll need it for anything else at this point.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 01:54:44 am
Gotta check for the deadman's switch first, just in case after we blast him the whole villa will go off.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 02:31:00 am
"Let me make an apology first. Going after your Family's Blood was wrong of me. A mistake. I'm sorry. You need me though, Thornton. I've got supply lines into the Holy City..we can pump this right through 'em."
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 02:46:39 am
We could probably fire the overload from downstairs as well, thus preventing him from being able to attack us with his weapon.
However, I was thinking about saving both the wife and the child, and using it on Thornton if he becomes difficult. I don't think he would dare cross Black Nicky.
Post by: King Zultan on March 04, 2020, 06:58:32 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 07:50:20 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 12:43:14 pm
Grab the rifle off the guard we just slew, and (provided we're in range) overload it in Moore's general direction.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 01:06:08 pm
[18] Moore doesn't get another chance to shoot at you. You reach into the magazine of your newly acquired rifle and pull out all of the energy you find therein, sending it pulsing into the micro-reactor all at once. With that done, you shift your focus forward as the weapon shudders, quickly creating a barrier between you and the explosion of heat and radiation that lances out of the weapon. The room disappears in a flash of burning light as you unleash a full magazine of energy all at once.
[16] It takes a lot of focus, you realize, to Overload something. But you feel like you did better this time. The calculations (?) were more natural to do, something more than instinct finally taking over.
Nothing is left of the desk, the bank of cameras, or even most of the room. Or of the Warlord Johnny Moore. Fire licks at the wall behind where he once stood and a neat hole punctures the side of the house, letting in the cool breeze. The gunship swings around, lifting closer to the Villa, investigating the massive flare of light and explosion.
Somebody other than a baby is crying in the other room, you realize. The rifle feels heavy in your hands.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 01:38:04 pm
...and now for the unpleasant part.
Time to go have a look-see at this baby and his mother.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 02:26:39 pm
[18 vs. 13-1] She fires the Las-pistol haphazardly, and your instinct takes over. The pulse of the laser shreds into her vest, knocking her back. The pistol slips from her lose grasp, and you see bloody steam. She doesn't die, instead stumbling to the floor, half-supported by the mattress.
There's panic in her tear-stained eyes. And hatred. A rueful smile twists your lips in admiration at the defiance. She can't see it, hidden beneath your mesh as it is.
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 02:35:29 pm
"The child will live. I will ensure it. I'm sorry it had to be this way."
End this, quick and clean. Be respectful about it.
Put the safety on our rifle, shoulder it, grab the child, grab the mother's las-pistol (for an emergency overload) and let's get out of here. Keep our stolen pistol out, in case we run into trouble on our way to the gunship.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 02:39:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 02:45:40 pm
"I have been authorized to spare you both. Please come with me. I will ensure that you are not harmed." Do not shoot the mother.
Part of me wants to make this happen, but at this point... what good would it do? I'm pretty sure we just blew a hole through the mother's spine-- she's gonna die anyway; I figure all we can do now is give her a bit of dignity in death.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 02:50:09 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on March 04, 2020, 02:51:25 pm
Aw man, of course she had a las-pistol. Was half hoping we'd get the chance to make a last-minute decision or two, maybe even consider smuggling the mother out somehow... too late now. :-\A contract is a contract
"The child will live. I will ensure it. I'm sorry it had to be this way."
End this, quick and clean. Be respectful about it.
Put the safety on our rifle, shoulder it, grab the child, grab the mother's las-pistol (for an emergency overload) and let's get out of here. Keep our stolen pistol out, in case we run into trouble on our way to the gunship.
+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 02:58:04 pm
The damage to her person isn't clear. I'd rather not kill an innocent.
...I'm listening. Assuming the mother isn't paralyzed from the neck down right now, what would you have us do with her? If we're gonna try and save her somehow, we need a clear plan as to how we're gonna make that happen.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 03:03:09 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 03:04:17 pm
+1, unless a plan for saving both is offered, which I don't have right nowAw man, of course she had a las-pistol. Was half hoping we'd get the chance to make a last-minute decision or two, maybe even consider smuggling the mother out somehow... too late now. :-\A contract is a contract
"The child will live. I will ensure it. I'm sorry it had to be this way."
End this, quick and clean. Be respectful about it.
Put the safety on our rifle, shoulder it, grab the child, grab the mother's las-pistol (for an emergency overload) and let's get out of here. Keep our stolen pistol out, in case we run into trouble on our way to the gunship.
+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 05:02:33 pm
Quickly assess the severity of the mother's injuries. If said injuries look to be fatal, speak our piece and make our kill as planned. If not... if not, I'm gonna have to reconsider.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 05:42:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 05:44:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 05:46:11 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 05:47:02 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 06:09:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 06:11:26 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on March 04, 2020, 06:24:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 06:31:08 pm
Place our hands on her, and will her injuries to heal. If that fails... I'm willing to shoot her.
...I'm sufficiently intrigued to give this a shot. +1-- take the pistol first tho, in case she gets her fight back.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 06:39:34 pm
+1Place our hands on her, and will her injuries to heal. If that fails... I'm willing to shoot her.
...I'm sufficiently intrigued to give this a shot. +1-- take the pistol first tho, in case she gets her fight back.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 10:29:40 pm
[12] You reach out, putting a hand on the dying woman, and try to heal her using whatever the power within you is. For a moment, nothing happens, but your aches and pains flare forth into existence.
[3] They fade as your head pounds painfully-- you collapse to the floor, gasping for breath as your head feels like it's about to rip itself apart. It burns with the worse pain you can imagine. Memories flare like burning embers into existence, but you cannot comprehend them ,and they rapidly overwhelm your senses. Tastes, colors, flashes of images you don't remember seeing...all of them sear the inside of your skull in rapid succession. You don't fade into unconsciousness, but at some point, you realize you're lying on the floor. Stunned. Helpless as you watch the brunette take her last, painful, choking breaths. She dies slowly, and self-loathing stabs at your existence. A noise from the stairs puts your awareness on edge, but you cannot move to escape or defend yourself.
[14] Boots tromp into the room. Someone approaches, but all you can see is the brunette's bloody face. Something digs into the back of your head, and you realize its a las-gun barrel.
"BANG!" William shouts with a laugh, nudging your stunned form over. He pulls your mesh down, looking at the blood that drips from your eyes, your nose, your ears. He wipes what comes away on his gloves on his coat. "What happened to you, Phebe?" He asks, and you must be hallucinating because you can hear the concern in his voice. He 'tuts' and puts a las-gun pulse in the brunette's face in a smooth motion. He pushes her body over and makes his way to the swaddled form of the crying child.
"Don't." You manage, through the pain.
"I gave my word, Phebe. I don't go back on it." William looks down at you, trying to shush the child and calm it down. To your surprise, it gives a little whimper and goes quiet, sucking on its hand. William gives a triumphant smile, swaddling the child up in the blanket, and taking a seat on the bed.
"My crew is finishing up with this place." He announces, "When you're done with your nap, we'll leave."
[15] You are slow to rise, and when you do William nods. "Did you take the Ballistic? I've never seen that happen before."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on March 04, 2020, 10:31:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 10:36:35 pm
There's no need to worry, though. Pain is nothing more than weakness leaving the body, after all."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 10:37:16 pm
No Ballistic...Need food. Lots of food. Hungry...+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2020, 10:55:02 pm
You, in no condition to fight, say nothing. He returns, sans baby, and helps you to your feet once more, providing support as you navigate the now treacherous staircase. He leads you through a dining room, into a well-furnished, well-stocked kitchen, helping you to settle down at the bar.
"I left the kid with Tommy. Him and his wife are trying for one, so I figure I'd give him some experience." He explains, examining the walk-in fridge with a practiced eye. He still has his pistol out, you notice, and isn't entirely comfortable. He pulls himself out a beer and you out a pre-packaged meal. It's cold, but you devour the food with gusto, and he watches you. He provides another, and another, all in silence as you gorge yourself. The world is still spinning, but the painful ache in your stomach is gone.
"I've only seen two people eat that much," William observes casually, smiling. 'For Polly' glints in the light as he finishes his beer and retrieves another, "Do you want one more?" When you shake your head, a monumental task, you slouch over the bar-top further. He nods, wetting a dish-towel in the sink and tossing it to you. An explosion echoes through the empty halls of the Villa, but William seems unconcerned.
"So, I'm assuming that Moore is dead, considering his room has a hole in it the size of a [cow] where he would be standing." William sips his beer, "And the missus is dead, that's for sure. Anything else to report, Phebe?" [10] You have enough sense left to realize that William is hinting at something here. He skirted the question previously in his own observation, but now it lingers unspoken in the air.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 11:04:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 11:07:40 pm
"Moore mentioned a drug he wanted to distribute. He said he had supply lines throughout the Holy City. I also got confirmation from Moore himself that he was behind the attempted kidnapping."
Say this. Maybe let ourselves slur it a little-- with this headache we've got, clear enunciation isn't gonna help us much.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 11:09:13 pm
"Ah yeah..."+1, no need to get him even more suspicious"Moore mentioned a drug he wanted to distribute. He said he had supply lines throughout the Holy City. I also got confirmation from Moore himself that he was behind the attempted kidnapping."
Say this. Maybe let ourselves slur it a little-- with this headache we've got, clear enunciation isn't gonna help us much.
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 11:15:07 pm
This headache of ours is real nasty. I'm tempted to try and use a healing surge on ourselves once we've got a spare moment, but seeing as we gave ourselves this headache pulling such shenanigans in the first place... probably best to just sleep it off when we get the chance? We'll see what happens, I guess.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 11:22:02 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 04, 2020, 11:25:02 pm
Hmm... I think it's about Polly's father. Spill our guts about that. Emphasize how we refused to harm William.+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 11:35:47 pm
Hmm... I think it's about Polly's father.
I'm... I'm confused. Where do you get that?
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 11:39:41 pm
Quote from: update
'For Polly' glints in the light as he finishes his beer and retrieves another,
Plus, that's the greatest way in which we are currently a threat to William. We know he killed Polly, and we know he almost certainly killed her father, too. He wouldn't want Emma finding out the truth, as it would contradict his own story.
Post by: Superdorf on March 04, 2020, 11:45:22 pm
Didn't occur to me that Billy was the one to slaughter those two-- makes sense in retrospect. (I'm not sure Phoebe knows that, mind-- recall, she rolled a 4 on that perception check!) Regardless, I'd rather not dredge up that particular pair of murders unless Billy gives us a straight question... sounds like trouble we don't need.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2020, 11:49:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 12:14:37 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 12:17:32 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 12:32:05 am
"Ah yeah...""Moore mentioned a drug he wanted to distribute. He said he had supply lines throughout the Holy City. I also got confirmation from Moore himself that he was behind the attempted kidnapping."
Say this. Maybe let ourselves slur it a little-- with this headache we've got, clear enunciation isn't gonna help us much.
After the above: "Not sure that's what you want me to tell you right now tho. Not thinking too clear right now. There something particular you're trying to ask me?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 12:40:56 am
...y'know what? Let's just ask."Ah yeah...""Moore mentioned a drug he wanted to distribute. He said he had supply lines throughout the Holy City. I also got confirmation from Moore himself that he was behind the attempted kidnapping."
Say this. Maybe let ourselves slur it a little-- with this headache we've got, clear enunciation isn't gonna help us much.
After the above: "Not sure that's what you want me to tell you right now tho. Not thinking too clear right now. There something particular you're trying to ask me?"
Alright, that seems fair. +1.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 12:54:37 am
[16]"That was our Ballistic." William laughs, scratching at his scruffy chin with the lip of the bottle, "He got the recipe from one of our scientists." He ticks his head out the door, "We leveled the lab, though. My only concern is if he sent the recipe to whatever businessmen he called his friends."
He laughs, "We also have those routes into the City. It's not hard to find a smuggler. It's funny how he tried to negotiate with that, though." He ignores you confirming that it was Moore who organized the kidnapping, not commenting, besides for a brief sour look that crosses his fair features. He's all smiles, seemingly satisfied with the day's events-- until you speak again, slurring together a disorganized sentence.
[15]"Well, there's the little issue of a huge freakin' hole in the wall of the upstairs office. You obviously used the det-pack on the cannon, so I'm just wondering how you did that. Not to mention you put away enough food for about three people just now...you ain't got a scratch on you, besides for y'know, the mystery blood leaking from every orifice of your face." William shrugs his shoulders, leaning forward on the bartop and setting his pistol down, "I'm a curious guy. Like to investigate curious circumstances. Currently, that's you." He lifts a hand, waving it away, "I think I have an idea, but I'd like to hear it from you before jumping to conclusions."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 12:56:05 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 01:13:10 am
Smirk a little. "Yeah, that's what I thought..."
"If you must know, I got one of their weapons to blow its reactor. Turns out those things have a lot of power in 'em, if you can bypass whatever makes them shoot off neat little las-bolts... stupid dangerous thing to try. Real pretty lights tho."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 01:21:22 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 02:00:00 am
If somebody has some weasel words to get outta this, great... otherwise, I'm just gonna come clean 'cos I don't really see any other options right now.
...Vague. Clean and vague.
"...I'll be honest with you, I don't know how I do it. I just know it makes my head hurt when I think about it too much. I'd show you, but what with the blood coming out my eyes frankly I'm kinda worried I'd kill myself if I tried right now."
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 02:26:13 am
That's... about the worst thing that coulda come out of Billy's mouth just now. Low roll. :-X+1
If somebody has some weasel words to get outta this, great... otherwise, I'm just gonna come clean 'cos I don't really see any other options right now.
...Vague. Clean and vague.
"...I'll be honest with you, I don't know how I do it. I just know it makes my head hurt when I think about it too much. I'd show you, but what with the blood coming out my eyes frankly I'm kinda worried I'd kill myself if I tried right now."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 02:44:05 am
With a draw from his drink, he smiles at you over the top of it, a predatory grin that's equal parts triumph and giddy glee.
[15] William ignores you, but he begins to explain, never once directly stating the obvious, giving you room on purpose. "Have you ever heard of the Barons of Steel? Now, imagine this. Nine-foot tall men of metal, slaughtering everything in their path with burning hot las-fire. Wielding guns bigger than me."
"You kill one, through concentrated fire, and pop open its shell-- in it is a person. Well, more like a torso, hooked up to all kinds of machines in this shell. But, not a [demon], not some amorphous rending, tearing abomination. A man. Well, you ask yourself, how did this person get like this?"
He slips something from his pocket, setting it on the table, haphazardly wobbling it as he speaks. Its an auto-injector with a red thorn on the cheap plastic. "And you ask yourself, how do I become this? A monster with no pain, no feeling, no mercy. Just pure aggression and strength?"
"Now, what secrets could we learn from another [demon]? A willing participant, no less! Food for thought, right?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 03:02:53 am
"An interesting proposal, but a metal shell like that would limit the
versatility of the combatant. Furthermore, pure aggression and strength, to the exclusion of all other qualities, even further limit the soldier's capabilities. That really only makes sense for cannon-fodder with limited skills."
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 03:04:53 am
Anyway, we're hurt. We're feeling kinda horrible about ourself. Now this guy wants to harness the worst of us to do something horrible. The time has come for sharp words.
"I will not be made a monster, Billy Thornton. Do not try to use me like one."
"Let me make one thing clear: everything I did for you tonight? Protection for a friend. Protection for myself. Nothing more. I want no part of the devastation you seem to have in mind."
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 03:23:07 am
The secret is that he killed Polly, his girlfriend and Emma's best friend. He also killed Polly's father after the latter tried to personally seek vengeance against him. William told Emma, however, that Polly was killed by someone else and he also told her that Polly's father died in an unrelated house fire. He probably wouldn't want us to tell Emma what really happened.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 03:27:58 am
He goes silent when you deliver your sharp rebuttal, the smile falling from his face. For a moment, he imitates a pet that's just been kicked, all pouts and small frowns.
"I never said anything of the sort, Pheobe, and it hurts me that you think I would do something like -that- to you. 'All a human wants to do is learn'," A wicked smile curves his lips, as he quotes SEED scripture to you, "Call it future protection for when the [demons] come back. I'm sure you haven't heard the rumors, but dark things are stirring in the west, Phebe. Outlander villages vanishing overnight, [insects] never seen before, with hard metal shells and ripping teeth."
[-]He hesitates, venturing then with trepidation, "How would you like to meet my father, Pheobe? You still have a few days of vacation. I'm sure he'd love to see Emma again, and her..." William pauses, searching for the word, teasing in an overly familiar way, "Friend? Lover? Sister?"
Then, much more somberly, "I'm not threatening you, or my baby sister, by the way, before you think badly of me. I love Emma, and I'd put a pulse in the old man's head before he touched a hair on her's."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 03:43:54 am
The secret is that he killed Polly, his girlfriend and Emma's best friend. He also killed Polly's father after the latter tried to personally seek vengeance against him. William told Emma, however, that Polly was killed by someone else and he also told her that Polly's father died in an unrelated house fire. He probably wouldn't want us to tell Emma what really happened.
Right, just making sure I didn't miss something. Thank you.
"I'm not threatening you, or my baby sister, by the way, before you think badly of me. I love Emma, and I'd put a pulse in the old man's head before he touched a hair on her's."
"...I believe that much, at least."
"I'll consider this visit of yours. For now, I need rest. You keep my secret, and I'll keep yours."
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 03:55:25 am
+1The secret is that he killed Polly, his girlfriend and Emma's best friend. He also killed Polly's father after the latter tried to personally seek vengeance against him. William told Emma, however, that Polly was killed by someone else and he also told her that Polly's father died in an unrelated house fire. He probably wouldn't want us to tell Emma what really happened.
Right, just making sure I didn't miss something. Thank you."I'm not threatening you, or my baby sister, by the way, before you think badly of me. I love Emma, and I'd put a pulse in the old man's head before he touched a hair on her's."
"...I believe that much, at least."
"I'll consider this visit of yours. For now, I need rest. You keep my secret, and I'll keep yours."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 05, 2020, 06:50:46 am
+1+1The secret is that he killed Polly, his girlfriend and Emma's best friend. He also killed Polly's father after the latter tried to personally seek vengeance against him. William told Emma, however, that Polly was killed by someone else and he also told her that Polly's father died in an unrelated house fire. He probably wouldn't want us to tell Emma what really happened.
Right, just making sure I didn't miss something. Thank you."I'm not threatening you, or my baby sister, by the way, before you think badly of me. I love Emma, and I'd put a pulse in the old man's head before he touched a hair on her's."
"...I believe that much, at least."
"I'll consider this visit of yours. For now, I need rest. You keep my secret, and I'll keep yours."
Post by: King Zultan on March 05, 2020, 10:12:07 am
+1+1+1The secret is that he killed Polly, his girlfriend and Emma's best friend. He also killed Polly's father after the latter tried to personally seek vengeance against him. William told Emma, however, that Polly was killed by someone else and he also told her that Polly's father died in an unrelated house fire. He probably wouldn't want us to tell Emma what really happened.
Right, just making sure I didn't miss something. Thank you."I'm not threatening you, or my baby sister, by the way, before you think badly of me. I love Emma, and I'd put a pulse in the old man's head before he touched a hair on her's."
"...I believe that much, at least."
"I'll consider this visit of yours. For now, I need rest. You keep my secret, and I'll keep yours."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 01:17:27 pm
The dropship ride is short and sweet, the only thing interrupting the silence is the idle chit-chat of the squad, relaxed and at peace, and the occasional cries of the baby. The soldiers good-naturedly pass the child around, and there's a lot of jokes at Gem's expense when the baby falls asleep, tucked up against the hard plates of her vest.
William keeps his word, dropping you off fairly close to the Academy. The walk there still takes too long for your spinning head. A man in a great-coat waits at the gate, and you realize its Brother Hop in Crusader Scout armor.
"Late night parties with gentlemen suitors are the last thing I would expect you to be doing, Child Gainer. Pass me your gun and vest; I'll put them away somewhere for you." You obey, and William takes his leave with a nod.
"Say goodbye to Emma for me, will you? I've caused her enough stress, and I don't want to go waking her up at midnight to say goodbye."
Brother Hop leaves you to stagger into the dormitory alone. Once there, you find Emma curled up at the dining room table, sleeping. You nudge her awake. When she finally rouses herself, you can tell she's relieved to see you in one piece. You murmur an excuse, leaving her in the dining room and collapse into your bed.
[17] You sleep soundly, no dreams interrupting your slumber.
You awake in the middle of the third day with a pounding headache from last night.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 05:47:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 05, 2020, 06:03:41 pm
I'm not sure what would be the best use of our time, but I thought it might be pleasant to spend some time bonding with Emma and try to figure out how she feels about us.+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 05, 2020, 09:58:43 pm
I'm not sure what would be the best use of our time, but I thought it might be pleasant to spend some time bonding with Emma and try to figure out how she feels about us.+1
Absolutely worthwhile. +1
Make sure to mention Billy said goodbye last night, if we haven't already.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 05, 2020, 10:56:20 pm
Instead, your body protests your laziness, and you give in to its demands. You head towards the exercise section of the compound, taking in the cold noon-day air. You shed your coat and your mesh, pausing to stretch yourself out. Then you start jogging around the track. It isn't long before you're sprinting, pushing yourself harder and harder until your lungs burn and your legs ache. Next is the obstacle course, then another lap, then push-ups, until even your endurance begins to flag. You take heaving, ragged breaths, sweat dripping from your forehead as you rest against the concrete wall.
[11] Emma is the one to find you, in the end. She looks surprised when she notices you panting for breath, remarking with a wry smile, "I don't think I've actually seen you sweat before."
"It does happen, every now and then." You reply, evenly, giving a smile, "William said goodbye, by the way."
Emma nods, awkwardly. You sit silently, trying to figure out how to broach the subject with her.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2020, 11:34:42 pm
"I wanted to apologize to you for the raid last night. I know you didn't want me to go, but I was afraid that if I didn't act, they would try to hurt you again or hurt your family. I couldn't risk that."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 06, 2020, 03:34:04 am
You, always game for free food, agree, heading out past the gates. You notice Emma is openly wearing her 'new' las-pistol now, right on her hip. It prompts an uncomfortable realization about her mental state; an increase in paranoia and fear. The town, while quieter than it was on the first day of the 'festival', is quite lively. Students are out in full force, taking in the night's food and drink. They huddle together in groups, tightly-knit but welcoming. The vendors themselves offer you great deals, especially Emma. A practiced, false smile curls her lips as she declines gift after gift. She lets you pick the restaurant, but, before she does, she pulls you aside to murmur something quietly.
"Hey, just remember that...sometimes killing isn't always the answer? Please?" She offers, haltingly. There's an accusation in there, you feel, but brush it off, simply nodding in return.
Spoiler: The Rising Glass (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Smiling Bird Bakery (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Peterson's Butchery (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 06, 2020, 03:38:57 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 06, 2020, 04:23:36 am
My vote is for the Smiling Bird Bakery. We wouldn't be able to hear her at The Rising Glass, and I'd rather avoid the food poisoning at Peterson's Butchery. Plus, with fewer people, it'll be easier to be wary of any potential attackers.
+1
Little strange to eat breakfast for dinner, but very convenient!
Post by: King Zultan on March 06, 2020, 06:26:03 am
+1My vote is for the Smiling Bird Bakery. We wouldn't be able to hear her at The Rising Glass, and I'd rather avoid the food poisoning at Peterson's Butchery. Plus, with fewer people, it'll be easier to be wary of any potential attackers.
+1
Little strange to eat breakfast for dinner, but very convenient!
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 06, 2020, 06:31:05 am
+1+1My vote is for the Smiling Bird Bakery. We wouldn't be able to hear her at The Rising Glass, and I'd rather avoid the food poisoning at Peterson's Butchery. Plus, with fewer people, it'll be easier to be wary of any potential attackers.
+1
Little strange to eat breakfast for dinner, but very convenient!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 06, 2020, 01:28:06 pm
You both start with tea, looking over the menu while the young man bustles behind the counter to prepare your drinks. Several options have been crossed out as time as gone on, but it still leaves you with a wide selection.
Code: [Select]
[croissants]
[apple]/[fig] [strudels]
[fig] [strudel]
[apple] [strude]
[Beef] and potato meat pies
Deep-fried dough crisps
Cheese and potato pie
[Apple] cake
[Blackberry] wine iced [vanilla] cake
[Oat] Bread
[Potato] Bread
[Apple] Bread
[White Wheat] Bread
[Black Wheat] Bread
Emma sets down her menu, ordering the beef and potato meat pie, and the young server turns to you, flashing a smile your way as he waits patiently. After your order, he heads back into the kitchen to prepare it. Emma asks, idly, "So, have you given any thought to what posting you're going to try and do after the Academy?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 06, 2020, 03:35:06 pm
"How about you?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 06, 2020, 04:38:09 pm
"Might join the crusaders. Might just take up a scholar's quill and live out my days peaceful-like. A peaceable life sounds nice right about now."+1
"How about you?"
Order the [Blackberry] wine iced [vanilla] cake. That sounds amazing.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 06, 2020, 04:56:06 pm
+1"Might join the crusaders. Might just take up a scholar's quill and live out my days peaceful-like. A peaceable life sounds nice right about now."+1
"How about you?"
Order the [Blackberry] wine iced [vanilla] cake. That sounds amazing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 06, 2020, 10:51:37 pm
For you, he sets down a cake-stand, with an entire cake on it. It's only iced on the top, with a slightly melty, purple buttercream. Drizzles of what you assume are the wine, or a reduction of it, top that, along with preserved [blackberries]. The cake, aside from that, is crumbly and delicious, heated only a little. It tastes fresh, and sweet, with the preserved blackberries adding a sour finish to the experience.
Emma looks surprised, brow furrowing. "You'd consider being a Scholar?" You give her a significant glance, and she backtracks hastily, "I'm sorry, it's just...you're so good at…"
She gestures awkwardly, finishing lamely, "I don't know. My family wants me to get involved with Medicine while I'm with the Scholars. But they can't pull me out if I pick something else."
"A lot of people think you'll go Crusader. A lot of our friends say they would serve with you, if you went that way. They wanted me to find out this week." Emma admits, changing the subject. She almost seems excited, smiling across the table and taking another forkful of pastry. "Would you really be interested in being a Scholar?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 06, 2020, 11:20:16 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 06, 2020, 11:27:38 pm
"It's like you said, killing isn't always the answer. Restraint is often a better path, and I do happen to be interested in theological matters as they relate to the holy SEED... and demons. I haven't made up my mind, however, so either are still possibilities."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 12:05:38 am
[19] "I think you'd be amazing at whatever you did." She offers, after a beat, smiling at you. "What um...interests you about [demons]? I noticed you were reading about them earlier."
[4][18] She pauses unexpectedly, staring across at you with sudden intent, a strange expression on her face. You've known Emma for a year, and you know that expression; its stunned disbelief mixed with a healthy dose of fear. Her fork freezes midway to her mouth, and she has to think about eating.
[6] "Do-- are you...?" Is all she can muster.
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 12:10:24 am
"Whether as a Crusader or a Scholar, my duties will include seeing to our greatest foes, the demons, should they ever return. We can't defeat our enemies if we are ignorant of them, so learning more about them is a natural choice, if that answers your question."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 12:33:22 am
"What are they like?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 12:39:36 am
"I don't remember. They left when I was very young. My grandmother is really the only family I have, but perhaps my parents are alive and still out there, somewhere. As you would expect from such a controversial Crusader, she wasn't always as kind and understanding as she could have been."
"What are your parents like? I don't think we've really ever discussed that."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 12:56:19 am
I'm not convinced that lying is the best path forward, but if we did want to lie, here's a possibility:im not sure this is a lie, since we really don’t remember how we were born. For all we know, demons reproduce via budding. The truth would be that we don’t remember our parents because we fell from the sky. That would raise more questions. +1 to the response, btw
"I don't remember. They left when I was very young. My grandmother is really the only family I have, but perhaps my parents are alive and still out there, somewhere. As you would expect from such a controversial Crusader, she wasn't always as kind and understanding as she could have been."
"What are your parents like? I don't think we've really ever discussed that."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 01:07:19 am
[20]"Ah, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." She trails off, picking at the edge of her pastry with a fork, brushing aside a burnt end, "I was raised by my brother and the house servants, really. I never knew my mother, and my father was always distant...he's...really ill, I guess you could say, but he has no one to blame for it besides himself."
"He's the one who made William like that. I got tutoring in how to hold myself and speak and all this stuff, and William got put into combat training when he was just a little kid."
"I guess you and him are similar that way, huh? Nicole must have put you through hell."
When you ask about her father's illness, she hesitates, looking across at you, "You're already mixed up in my family. He...he tried to take parts from a [demon] he found and attach them to himself. It...it didn't go right. He has to constantly take antibiotics and stay in a sterilized room. He gets sick a lot. I guess that's why he wants me to train in Medicine. I'm surprised he isn't dead yet, to be honest."
Wrly, she continues, "Too much to hope for, I guess."
"Hey, if its uh...possible, do you think we could try to go for the same posting?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 01:15:25 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 01:17:27 am
...”yes, that would be good” ((posting like sentry duty?))
[20]"Ah, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." She trails off, picking at the edge of her pastry with a fork, brushing aside a burnt end, "I was raised by my brother and the house servants, really. I never knew my mother, and my father was always distant...he's...really ill, I guess you could say, but he has no one to blame for it besides himself."
"He's the one who made William like that. I got tutoring in how to hold myself and speak and all this stuff, and William got put into combat training when he was just a little kid."
"I guess you and him are similar that way, huh? Nicole must have put you through hell."
When you ask about her father's illness, she hesitates, looking across at you, "You're already mixed up in my family. He...he tried to take parts from a [demon] he found and attach them to himself. It...it didn't go right. He has to constantly take antibiotics and stay in a sterilized room. He gets sick a lot. I guess that's why he wants me to train in Medicine. I'm surprised he isn't dead yet, to be honest."
Wrly, she continues, "Too much to hope for, I guess."
"Hey, if its uh...possible, do you think we could try to go for the same posting?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 01:26:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 01:37:03 am
Emma beams at you from across the table, happiness and relief all playing out across her features. She looks taken aback when you ask where she might want to go, "I...don't really know."
[15]"I was hoping to pick after you, so at least I'll have some idea of what you were going to do and could pick some place close." Emma looks embarrassed here, flushing a little. "I was preparing myself to become a communication operator or something for you, since I was sure you were going to become a Crusader. I guess I can relax a bit, since you're not so sure either."
"Hey, what's with you and Brother Hop? He seems really uh...interested in you? Did he know your parents?" She pauses, fishing for information, "You do go to his room a lot. And then there's that early morning training you two do."
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 01:43:48 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 02:03:51 am
The rest of your meal passes with idle chitchat about classes and scores, or about what your friends did, or what they're going to do. You manage to polish off most of the cake, with Emma watching with an amused smile. The baker returns, brushing off his hands and standing almost at attention in front of Emma and your table.
"Was everything good?" He asks, politely, and you both agree it was delicious and very well made. He gives a genuine smile, murmuring about how he made the cake.
"So, what do I owe you?" Emma asks, with a charming smile.
"Nothing for you, Miss Thornton." The baker is quick to reply, glancing to you warily.
Emma's smile fades, and she repeats herself, letting her annoyance show. The baker stutters, providing a reasonable price. Emma pays extra, handing him a wad of bills she pulls from her cloak.
"T-thank you Miss Thornton."
Emma gives another smile and rises to her feet. You follow, giving the baker an easy smile.
"I hate that!" Emma vents to you as soon as you leave the bakery, stepping into the cold night air. Snow has started to fall on the town, but, you note with comfort, there's a patrol of Crusaders making their way down the street. Your fellow students are still on the streets, some drunk, some sober. "Everyone did that back home, too! I don't need free things, and they're attempt at respect just makes me upset."
"Now I have to deal with this here!" She pouts, brushing some crumbs from her robe and straightening it out. "Want to go get a drink or something, Pheobe?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 02:07:48 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 02:24:16 am
"Sure, sounds good."+1
((Not a suggestion, just thoughts: When are we going to tell her? The reason I didn’t mention our origin is because of the lie we told about not being a demon. I feel like the longer we wait to tell her, the worse it will be when she finds out, maybe we can tell her when we are alone, that way if she asks why we lied ad the bakery, we can tell her that it was because we didn’t want others to know))
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 02:26:43 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 02:30:56 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 02:33:57 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 02:36:57 am
((The problem in my opinion with that is, combined with her previous suspicion, she would probably come to the conclusion that we are a demon if we asked that. Maybe we could try to get that info from her in a more indirect way?))((probably better. We need to think of an indirect way to glean the information. In real life I tend to be direct, so thinking of indirect ways of getting information is difficult, but I might have done so IRL at some point, not sure. If I have, I can apply a similar thought process))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 03:41:52 am
Emma takes one look at the students at the bar and instead claims a table nearby. Mcgee breaks away to greet you and exchange pleasantries, before returning to the other group with a small wink given your way. Emma flushes, but doesn't say anything, ordering a bottle of wine for herself. You, actually at ease despite the apparent nervousness of the locals, buy a bottle of cheap liquor to sip on.
"Rumor mills work fast, huh?" She offers, apologetically, a small smile gracing her lips. "Sorry about...all this. And for dragging you into Family business."
[5][2]"My best friend is safe, that's all that matters to me." You reply, giving her a smile. She returns it, and the two of you lapse into what you feel like is a comfortable silence, drinking your drinks. You start crowd-watching, having picked a seat perfect for watching the door and window. Locals come and go, talking, laughing, commiserating. The drinks flow from the bar, bottles, and cups being passed down and around. McGee gets in a fight with another boy, and before you can lift yourself up, he throws the other young man to the ground. The other student scurries off, and McGee celebrates with a chugged beer, laughing.
You note with pride that its a move you taught him during physical training. Shifting to one side, grabbing the enemy and letting their momentum be their own undoing.
"Do you like fighting?" Emma asks. "I never did. I always used to avoid conflict, when I was younger...but then no one really messes with my Family and lives, so maybe that was to save other people's health more than my own. I'm generous like that." She does her best haughty voice, brushing some hair over her shoulder in an exaggerated manner.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 03:48:41 am
"I see it as more of a necessary evil, something to be avoided whenever possible. Violence is distasteful, but sometimes it's the only way to stay safe."
Post by: King Zultan on March 07, 2020, 05:28:38 am
((Ouch. Shut down.))+1
"I see it as more of a necessary evil, something to be avoided whenever possible. Violence is distasteful, but sometimes it's the only way to stay safe."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 10:17:04 am
You sigh, admitting, "But sometimes I do enjoy it. That probably makes me sick, somehow."
Emma blinks, giving a small nod and sipping from her wine politely. She doesn't seem surprised or upset by your answer. The two of you lapse into another silence, watching the other group of students. "I don't think so." She finally offers, before turning back towards you, leaning on the table and asking, "What do you think the purpose of life is?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 07, 2020, 01:42:09 pm
Smile. "It's nice to have a friend around for the muddling, at least. Maybe there's some purpose in that."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 01:56:47 pm
"Honestly? I'm not sure yet. SEED has its plans, I'm sure... but for now, it seems everyone's just muddling along while they wait for the next [demon] to fall."+1
Smile. "It's nice to have a friend around for the muddling, at least. Maybe there's some purpose in that."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 02:05:58 pm
You toast to that, draining half the bottle in a hard burning swallow. Emma lifts an eyebrow, giggling.
"I don't know how you can drink that much and not be drunk."
"Drugs just don't seem to effect me that much." You offer with a half-shrug.
"You could out drink William, I think."
You and Emma both finish your bottles at roughly the same time, and seem to both be just as drunk. You're not quite slurring, but you have a very pleasant buzz, and you find yourself focusing on Emma's robe for some odd reason.
"We should go." Emma rises, tossing bills on the table. You follow suit, paying for your drink and heading out the door. Emma leans against you heavily.
You don't think she needs to, judging by her steady gait.
It isn't until you're outside of town that she asks, softly, "Pheobe? What am I to you?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 02:22:10 pm
[13]"I hope it doesn't happen in our lifetimes." Emma murmurs, lifting a toast, "To the future generations that have to fight."”you’re my best friend. Why do you ask?”
You toast to that, draining half the bottle in a hard burning swallow. Emma lifts an eyebrow, giggling.
"I don't know how you can drink that much and not be drunk."
"Drugs just don't seem to effect me that much." You offer with a half-shrug.
"You could out drink William, I think."
You and Emma both finish your bottles at roughly the same time, and seem to both be just as drunk. You're not quite slurring, but you have a very pleasant buzz, and you find yourself focusing on Emma's robe for some odd reason.
"We should go." Emma rises, tossing bills on the table. You follow suit, paying for your drink and heading out the door. Emma leans against you heavily.
You don't think she needs to, judging by her steady gait.
It isn't until you're outside of town that she asks, softly, "Pheobe? What am I to you?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 07, 2020, 02:24:36 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on March 07, 2020, 02:27:08 pm
You're someone special...
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 02:27:43 pm
"...Kin."this is better than mine, +1
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 02:48:00 pm
Give her a hug+1
You're someone special...
Post by: Superdorf on March 07, 2020, 03:20:58 pm
((I'd rather not crush her hopes again.))
When did we...?
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 03:26:51 pm
"Now. I'm not a killer by choice, Mr. Thornton, and I'm not one to seek vengeance-- I've only ever fought to protect myself and my own. Last night, I fought to protect a friend." You tick your head to Emma as you speak. She looks a little deflated at that but smiles at you anyway.
Emma leads you to the first bar she notices, confidently striding in with you in tow. A few students are clustered around the bar, and there's a number of locals irregularly distributed across the remaining tables. A few glance at you, then at Emma, eyeing your hair, of all things. A few leave, at that, dipping respectful nods to the two of while hurrying away. McGee is the only student that greets the two of you, the others aren't your friends, and so only glance your way before resuming their conversation.
Emma takes one look at the students at the bar and instead claims a table nearby. Mcgee breaks away to greet you and exchange pleasantries, before returning to the other group with a small wink given your way. Emma flushes, but doesn't say anything, ordering a bottle of wine for herself. You, actually at ease despite the apparent nervousness of the locals, buy a bottle of cheap liquor to sip on.
"Rumor mills work fast, huh?" She offers, apologetically, a small smile gracing her lips. "Sorry about...all this. And for dragging you into Family business."
[5][2]"My best friend is safe, that's all that matters to me." You reply, giving her a smile. She returns it, and the two of you lapse into what you feel like is a comfortable silence, drinking your drinks. You start crowd-watching, having picked a seat perfect for watching the door and window. Locals come and go, talking, laughing, commiserating. The drinks flow from the bar, bottles, and cups being passed down and around. McGee gets in a fight with another boy, and before you can lift yourself up, he throws the other young man to the ground. The other student scurries off, and McGee celebrates with a chugged beer, laughing.
You note with pride that its a move you taught him during physical training. Shifting to one side, grabbing the enemy and letting their momentum be their own undoing.
"Do you like fighting?" Emma asks. "I never did. I always used to avoid conflict, when I was younger...but then no one really messes with my Family and lives, so maybe that was to save other people's health more than my own. I'm generous like that." She does her best haughty voice, brushing some hair over her shoulder in an exaggerated manner.
Also, note the (?) In the status for our relationship wit her.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 07, 2020, 03:39:30 pm
+1Give her a hug+1
You're someone special...
@ZBridges
I didn’t notice Emma had feelings for Phoebe, I didn’t see those as cues
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 03:41:48 pm
[13]"I hope it doesn't happen in our lifetimes." Emma murmurs, lifting a toast, "To the future generations that have to fight."
You toast to that, draining half the bottle in a hard burning swallow. Emma lifts an eyebrow, giggling.
"I don't know how you can drink that much and not be drunk."
"Drugs just don't seem to effect me that much." You offer with a half-shrug.
"You could out drink William, I think."
You and Emma both finish your bottles at roughly the same time, and seem to both be just as drunk. You're not quite slurring, but you have a very pleasant buzz, and you find yourself focusing on Emma's robe for some odd reason.
"We should go." Emma rises, tossing bills on the table. You follow suit, paying for your drink and heading out the door. Emma leans against you heavily.
You don't think she needs to, judging by her steady gait.
It isn't until you're outside of town that she asks, softly, "Pheobe? What am I to you?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 07, 2020, 03:43:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 07, 2020, 06:27:14 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 07, 2020, 06:28:47 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on March 07, 2020, 11:03:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 08, 2020, 12:12:10 am
"McGee and James are going to be soo mad." She brags to you good-naturedly, with a wry smile, "They bet me [.2 credits] each you weren't interested in anyone. I told them that you'd fall for me, in the end." She smiles shyly, "I"m really glad you did."
That explains that, but you walk along at ease, content, no, happy with your life. You part ways in the dormitory with another kiss, you heading to the laundry room to clean your clothes, while she collapses into bed. You aren't entirely surprised when you find Brother Hop in the washroom, washing his clothes. He nods to you, passively, and politely takes his leave.
"Gainer."
"Brother Hop."
You wash in silence, cleaning your outfit and clothes while relaxing under the shower-- until that shower-heads ration of hot water runs out. No one besides you showers this late, so you hop under another. You're not tipsy anymore. Alcohol leaves your system quickly when you don't inundate yourself in it regularly.
But you are tired, and your muscles ache with the strain of the last few days, whatever mental block you have in place falling away with the steaming hot water. You wonder if this should burn you, it seems to burn others, but it just makes you feel clean.
Your thoughts drift, coming to fixate on something that's been nagging you since you woke up, something that no amount of exercise or affection can entirely hide—the brunette mother of baby Moore, her last gasping breaths, her bloodstained face. You search for regret but find nothing. Fixating on the image burned into your brain gives you a brief respite from the sense of self-doubt, a self-inflicted scar to prove to yourself...what?
Are you a killer? A soldier? A demon? Most days, you don't feel human. Everything is distant, especially these people living around you. They fall into line without you needing to speak, following along with your plans and actions like sediment in a river. Is that your birth-right? To unconsciously sweep these people along with your whims and wants?
The water turns ice cold as you lose yourself in moments of self-doubt and reflection. Did William plan this? Did he know about this gap? Does he suffer the same?
You leave the washroom, feeling the bite of the night air. You try to focus on it, on trying to feel cold. But there's no point-- something in your mind notices those impulses of your nervous system and isolates them. The cold fades to..nothing.
You don't remember crawling into bed, instead wondering if everyone else doesn't bother undressing before sleeping. Your kevlar is more comfortable than any blanket, the tough fabric of your pants and shirts holding you close.
[19] You don't dream.
The dormitory is bustling, Emma and Eric directing the morning cooking duty with trained skill. You set the table and pour the water, joining in the conversations in your usual half-hearted way. After breakfast, Emma approaches McGee and James, laughing as they fork over the money. You laugh with her.
She wants to spend the day with you, and you wonder how you'll spend the next three days after that.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 12:22:55 am
I'd be interested in exploring in further depth our abilities and limits during our free time if others are up for that.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 12:25:56 am
You are Pheobe͚͇ ̵̳͖͙͓͔̖͜A҉͠͏͖l̷͈̪̭̥̪ ҉̺̠̗̮̣͖̞G͏̶̜̻͕̫̮ainer.
We lost the headache. We gained this.
I suspect it's permanent.
At some point in days to come, we need to look up our own name in the academy library: "Alphira". The chances are slim, but there may be something there.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 12:26:41 am
Have a look at our status bar, too:+1You are Pheobe͚͇ ̵̳͖͙͓͔̖͜A҉͠͏͖l̷͈̪̭̥̪ ҉̺̠̗̮̣͖̞G͏̶̜̻͕̫̮ainer.
We lost the headache. We gained this.
I suspect it's permanent.
At some point in days to come, we need to look up our own name in the academy library: "Alphira". The chances are slim, but there may be something there.
Hmm. Perhaps the more we use our powers, the more we begin to remember our previous identity.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 12:37:01 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 12:43:53 am
+1 to this andHave a look at our status bar, too:+1You are Pheobe͚͇ ̵̳͖͙͓͔̖͜A҉͠͏͖l̷͈̪̭̥̪ ҉̺̠̗̮̣͖̞G͏̶̜̻͕̫̮ainer.
We lost the headache. We gained this.
I suspect it's permanent.
At some point in days to come, we need to look up our own name in the academy library: "Alphira". The chances are slim, but there may be something there.
Hmm. Perhaps the more we use our powers, the more we begin to remember our previous identity.
Interesting, a reminder that we are more or less than human. At the same time, however, we don't seem to resemble any of the demons we read about, except in that we fell from the sky. Strange.+1 to this
I'd be interested in exploring in further depth our abilities and limits during our free time if others are up for that.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 01:09:53 am
Whatever we do, it'll have to be subtle. We're not on the field of battle anymore; we're on Academy ground and there's the distinct possibility that somebody could be watching us without our knowledge. To that end, whatever we do should furthermore (if possible) be low-cost: Academy food is portioned the same for everyone; we can't really afford to be burning up the extra calories unless we supplement that food from our own pocket somehow.
With that in mind, I'd suggest we head out on the track once or twice over the coming days and practice channeling power through our body as we run. Perhaps we can tap into our active reserves to make ourselves still faster, still slower to tire than we already are.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 01:21:24 am
If we're going to explore more thoroughly what we're capable of, we need to know what exactly we're attempting.+1
Whatever we do, it'll have to be subtle. We're not on the field of battle anymore; we're on Academy ground and there's the distinct possibility that somebody could be watching us without our knowledge. To that end, whatever we do should furthermore (if possible) be low-cost: Academy food is portioned the same for everyone; we can't really afford to be burning up the extra calories unless we supplement that food from our own pocket somehow.
With that in mind, I'd suggest we head out on the track once or twice over the coming days and practice channeling power through our body as we run. Perhaps we can tap into our active reserves to make ourselves still faster, still slower to tire than we already are.
Also, I’ve been thinking about why Healing Factor doesn’t work too well right now. I’m thinking it’s because we are beginners and maybe beginning healing works better on small wounds
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 01:30:57 am
Alas, I don't see a great way to practice it further. We'd have to injure ourself or someone else repeatedly, and that's a thing I'm... reluctant to do.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 01:38:59 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 01:43:00 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 08, 2020, 01:46:59 am
You fall asleep with her holding you close murmuring softly to you, gently informing you that she doesn't mind the boundary or your secret, "Sleep well, my [demon]."
For once, it doesn't make you bristle to be called that.
[3][2/1d4][19]
The worlds change, but the battlefield is always there. Through ice and magma, smoke and brimstone, you fight on. There's a brother at your side, happily laughing as the two of you bring death upon your foes. The rifle feels good in your hands, the bloodlust freeing your mind from the shackles of nihilism that consume your down-time. Freeing you from the cold embrace of the too empty halls of your home. Here, there is change. Here, there is freedom.
Blood. There's so much blood. No one should bleed that much. His face twisted into a rictus of death as a silvery entity rips great shreds from his body. It drops his corpse with a sickening crunch, stepping on it with twisting, writhing claws, sending more of his blood splattering out across the cold metal.
You run, and it chases you--
Emma is pulling you closer, awakening you from the old nightmare. You feel her concern, and you nuzzle back into her in silence. She drifts back to sleep. You do not. Laying in bed and staring at the ceiling, you wait for morning to come like you always do, well-rested on just a few short hours of sleep.
You pretend to sleep when Emma awakens for her morning duties, only lifting yourself from the bed once she politely knocks on your door and calls your name. The routine is comforting. The thought of leaving the Academy to study what you can do once more comes up, and when Emma approaches you, you subtly hint that you have something to do. She's crestfallen but accepting, giving you a kiss and making plans with friends.
[-]The Library isn't quite open yet, but no one resents a Scholar for studying first thing in the morning, so you find it unlocked. You search the index for your...the name, but find nothing. A Book of Angels is your next bet, and you skim through the listings.
Code: (Examples from the Book of Angels) [Select]
Mcreary
McEntire
Node
Crusader of Peace
Tyler
Micheal
WortsmithYou find nothing after searching for hours, the naming pattern not even close to matching 'Alphira'. The complete list of [demons] is the same, even the Barons of Steel don't have quite the same pattern, having far too many letters and numbers to remember.
Feeling frustrated, you take yourself to the track. With a soft breath and a borrowed watch, you sprint the mile as quickly as possible, coming to the finish line at a low six minutes. You feel no sense of exertion and catch your breath easily. Then, you do a two-mile sprint, and clock about the same average time for each lap. That's a little more difficult.
Then you focus, trying to use the same force that you use to heal yourself, a concentration of will.
[19] The two-mile feels easier, your muscles not even burning with exertion this time. On a whim, you keep the same pace, deciding to sprint as long as you can, as fast as you can. Your time doesn't improve, but your endurance does. It takes ten miles around the track at the same fast-paced sprint, before you even begin to feel the slightest fatigue start to build in your legs and chest. After the fifteenth mile, you begin to slow, starting to ache.
[18]You decide to stop after sprinting twenty miles around the track. You've been running at a full sprint for two hours, and only now do you take labored breaths, your legs feeling weak and chest aching to your satisfaction. You catch your breath on a bench, dripping with sweat. You realize you smell horrible, like cheap [pickles] and head to the showers for a quick wash-up and to clean your sweat-drenched clothes.
One and a half more days of complete freedom.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 01:55:02 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 01:57:57 am
Healing Factor works wonders for our endurance.
Oh, and apparently Emma's figured out we ain't human.
Right then.
I'm not sure how dangerous it would be... but how about shapeshifting? In a private area, attempt to subtly and temporarily change our appearance.
I'd be worried about a bad roll-- we could accidentally change our appearance permanently, in a way we very much hadn't intended. Could draw a lot of unwanted attention.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 01:59:49 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 02:15:07 am
Maybe disrupting weapons at range, then? That could also be useful.
Huh, maybe... best not to test with an actual weapon, though; t'would be hard to do so discretely. Better to start with something small.
...Oh. Oh actually. This gives me a weird idea.
What if we could substitute something else for caloric intake?
Obtain somewhere (go buy one if we have to) a cheap electric flashlight or something similar, find a private spot to experiment, turn it on, and attempt to siphon the power off it into ourself.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 02:15:44 am
+1Maybe disrupting weapons at range, then? That could also be useful.
Huh, maybe... best not to test with an actual weapon, though; t'would be hard to do so discretely. Better to start with something small.
...Oh. Oh actually. This gives me a weird idea.
What if we could substitute something else for caloric intake?
Obtain somewhere (go buy one if we have to) a cheap electric flashlight or something similar, find a private spot to experiment, turn it on, and attempt to siphon the power off it into ourself.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 02:18:01 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 08, 2020, 03:48:49 am
[15] You shake your long hair dry as you walk to town, running your fingers through it in an effort to dry it faster. You contemplate growing it out more to test if...you can change shape. If that's possible, from what you currently know of biology, you reason that you could try changing fat and bone after that. The concept doesn't sound that ridiculous, but you feel a strange attachment to your current form that you just can't shake. That problem existing in the first place makes you once again realize how strange you are.
[17] You find a traveling merchant, deeper in town, away from the neighborhood tourist trap designed around the Academy entrance. He has a small, solar charging lamp with a large battery, for [.2 credits] in local currency. Your cut of Emma's bet money pays for most of it, and assorted pocket-change pays for the rest. On the way, you purchase two loaves of [black wheat] bread, to soothe your aching stomach if the plan doesn't work out. In total, you spent [.25 credits] of local currency.
[5]Prizes in hand, you retreat back towards the Academy. There's a patch of bramble and trees in the farmland surrounding the town, and you take shelter there, knowing full well from previous experience that its as good of cover for this activity as you're going to get. You unscrew the machine's housing with your fingers and take out the battery, focusing on it.
[3]You notice that it disrupts the local magnetic field around it with a strange sort of not feeling, like something pressuring a second skin ever so slightly. You focus, trying to suck the energy you feel within -- and nothing happens. Then you expend energy into it, wondering if the process needs assistance.
[8] It pops in your hand, and you start, trying to drop it before anything else drips on your fingers. Its too late, though, and your hand begins to hurt, a few pieces of your skin slowly burning away in curious peels from the palm of your hand. For an agonizing second, you feel all the pain-- and then it's gone. It isn't as difficult as one might think to watch your own hand burn and be unable to do anything about it, but you wonder if this should be traumatizing.
[13] You sit with your hand outstretched from your body, taking a quick bite to eat with your not horribly burned hand, The bread nearly vanishes into your mouth, and you barely chew. You apply your will to your body, trying once more to hurry the healing. It takes a moment, and the pain doubles you over as your focus shifts. Your skin grows back, mending together until it's sealed together with nasty grey scabs. Your skin doesn't burn again, whatever acid thankfully either boiling off or running out of energy for the reaction.
[2]Suddenly unable to focus, the world spins and reorients itself. You reach up, gingerly, and find yourself laying on your back, with blood dripping from one of your eyes. It doesn't hurt as much as it did a few nights ago, but you have a pounding headache.
You lay there for a while, watching a few ragged clouds form in the sky. When you feel well enough to rise, you do so, snagging the last loaf of bread to soothe your stomach. It doesn't work.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on March 08, 2020, 11:32:06 am
Let us go get some food so we don't starve.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 11:35:30 am
Maybe we should stop experimenting for a bit before we fuck ourselves up really bad.+1
Let us go get some food so we don't starve.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 12:23:44 pm
On the other hand, this way we got to practice our Healing Factor some more! :D
Food is good. First though, go wash our face off.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 12:35:35 pm
Eesh, good thing we're wearing gloves... wouldn't want to explain that injury.what did we get on our face?
On the other hand, this way we got to practice our Healing Factor some more! :D
Food is good. First though, go wash our face off.
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 12:37:47 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 12:39:03 pm
We're bleeding out one eye. Another injury I'd rather not have to explain to our fellow academians.ah yes, that
Eesh, good thing we're wearing gloves... wouldn't want to explain that injury.+1
On the other hand, this way we got to practice our Healing Factor some more! :D
Food is good. First though, go wash our face off.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 08, 2020, 04:05:59 pm
[-]You find a small restaurant that caters to the working class of the town. You pay [.1 credits] in local currency for entry, but you can eat as much as you like. The choices aren't too unusual, but the stew is filling, and the bread has a little bit of salt to add flavor. You eat your money's worth and then some, waiting around casually so as not to arouse suspicion. When you're finally full, you leave the eatery, stepping back on to the cobbled street of the town. Snow begins to drift down from the night sky.
Is there anything you'd like to do?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 04:21:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 04:30:16 pm
I think I'm ready to bring this week to a close. Only question is: do we want to send word of any recent events through Brother Hop? If so, how much do we want to tell him?i don’t think we need to tell him anything
Let’s practice shapeshifting, something minor, like lengthening our hair as a start
Post by: Superdorf on March 08, 2020, 04:43:48 pm
If we're not worrying about debriefing and whatnot, let's just spend the rest of this week winding down. Enjoy the freedom. Spend time with friends. Relax.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 04:53:11 pm
I'd rather not engage in any more magic today, lest we wind up damaging ourselves further.+1
If we're not worrying about debriefing and whatnot, let's just spend the rest of this week winding down. Enjoy the freedom. Spend time with friends. Relax.
However, in the end, sanity prevailed.
Post by: VoidSlayer on March 08, 2020, 08:21:44 pm
Honestly, scholarly research work where we can still work in a garrison to keep up our combat skills in the case of a major crusade might be a good compromise between the two. Since our "grandmother" will probably want us to do the combat thing.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2020, 08:27:29 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 08, 2020, 08:30:16 pm
+1 and try to learn more about our friends as wellI'd rather not engage in any more magic today, lest we wind up damaging ourselves further.+1
If we're not worrying about debriefing and whatnot, let's just spend the rest of this week winding down. Enjoy the freedom. Spend time with friends. Relax.
Post by: King Zultan on March 09, 2020, 01:44:49 am
+1+1 and try to learn more about our friends as wellI'd rather not engage in any more magic today, lest we wind up damaging ourselves further.+1
If we're not worrying about debriefing and whatnot, let's just spend the rest of this week winding down. Enjoy the freedom. Spend time with friends. Relax.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 09, 2020, 04:34:10 am
[17]You fall into a dreamless slumber, waking up the next morning to Emma knocking on your door. You rise, setting the table and pouring the water. Your friends are planning on going into town soon, for one last day of freedom. They've invited you along, and seem surprised when you agree. Emma smiles at you, leaning close. You have a few hours before they leave, and Emma elects to spend it with you in the library.
The time passes quickly, even when you both are merely studying in silence. When noon comes, you rise, putting your books away and heading to the gate with Emma. She's excited at the prospect of spending more time with you, you can tell, and happy your mutual friends will be along for the metaphorical ride.
[16] You go out to eat lunch at a nice restaurant, drift through the shopping district, and finish it with drinks at a local bar. Its all fulfilling, and enjoyable, and you relate more with your friends.
At first, part of you questioned why they were your friends in the first place, but a pattern emerges when you think about it. Between you and Emma, you've pushed all these people in one way or the other to better themselves. You've helped quite a few of them pass the physical training requirements, driving them to push themselves. Emma has helped most
Emma is an intelligent young woman, whose skill in translating languages leaves you stunned at times, and she isn't a slouch at athletics training, either.
McGee and James push themselves as hard as you do, managing top marks in athletics and rifle work. They're dead set on becoming Crusaders-- and they respect you because you put them both down on the ground during the first personal combat training session, then spent the rest of them building them back up until McGee knocked you on your ass when you weren't paying attention. They were criminals back in the Steelworks before Mother Gainer pulled them off the street and whipped sense into them. Literally. They've shown you the scars. As orphans, they were both given the same last name despite not being biologically related. They do look incredibly similar, however.
Johnathan is a quiet sort but pushes himself just as hard as McGee and James. His skills with firearms are where he truly excels. His aim is unparalleled in your class-- you can't even aim as well as he can. Turns out, he was a hunter for around four years for Eric's family, before a pay dispute put his father and him, to work in the mines. His father passed, leaving him an orphan. Instead of sticking around and staying a miner, possibly becoming a debt-slave, he joined the Scholars to do something with his life. He also intends to join the Crusaders.
Jesse, Erica, and Amanda are all craftsmen's daughters-- they played with Emma on rare occasions during their youth. They're smart, but coasting by, passing whatever test or quiz or report, meeting the minimum requirements of physical training. They're intending on becoming craftsmen for the SEED and move into the Holy City. John, Quincy and Other Eric are the same, if on the opposite end of the spectrum. Miner's kids that are looking for better lives in the Holy City, either as Crusaders or as Craftsmen.
[-] Last call rolls around, and Emma stumbles out of town, leaning heavily on you and giggling hysterically at a stupid joke you made about one of your teachers. It's a little challenging to get her to go to her bed, but she falls asleep quickly when she gets there. You do the same, heading to bed, readying yourself for the day ahead. Currently, you're good enough to get a posting in all but the heaviest of Scholarly work, and the Crusaders would take you in an instant if they could. Postings aren't announced until a week before the end of the Academy.
Do you have any goals for the coming school year?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2020, 05:11:12 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 09, 2020, 05:13:12 am
One thing I would like to focus on is investigating and researching the dark happenings in the west.+1 also learn more about SEED
Post by: Superdorf on March 09, 2020, 10:53:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 10, 2020, 02:10:41 am
[-]The mornings once again begin to blur together into the rituals of discipline, training, and Scholarly endeavors. The workload, you notice, is twice as much as previously. After-class work burns away any free-time you might have had. The second day back, the teachers announce that a paper is due at the end of your time with the Academy. Luckily, it doesn't require that much work, but the formatting itself is the most challenging part, as well as determining which Scholar's Tongue to use while writing it. There's a strict set of guidelines involved with what language you can use for disseminating information. It ranges from something that's barely above the conversational dialect of the region to a nearly indecipherable code of references and cross-references. You must translate a non-Scholarly work of considerable length into the latter. Emma has to help you, as writing the paper -literally- gives you a nosebleed.
You can only really spend time with Emma on your one free day, after service, but the two of you spend as much time together as possible, even if it's just eating together. You have a brief quarrel over something she said, and after the two of you got over yourselves, you apologized and she started calling you [angel] instead.
[take 15]You arrange to start receiving Newspapers from the Holy City through Brother Hop. The subscription is relatively inexpensive, but Hop charges you extra for the delivery. The papers list sedate things like festivals and joyous events. There is scarcely anything mentioned about the West past the River Grey. But you can piece together about what's happening through collating the scarce data you gather. -[.30 credits] in local currency.
Brother Hop lets you read the paper while you give him your weekly debrief, and encourages you to write your grandmother, even if its nothing important. That surprises you, but the letters you get back seem less and less hostile as time goes on. Some even speak of how proud she is of you. Not her grand-daughter, of you. You wonder if this is the Brother's doing. When you question him about the situation, he explains in a clear diatribe, "I haven't seen behavior to worry her about. You use your powers responsibly and without letting others notice. You hide your heritage and seek to actually better the Great Work. You're a faithful friend and respectful student, even when I'm harsh. I wish you were more [hellish]."
The west is going through a crisis. The Outlander clans there are pushing in towards the Holy City once more, but more frenzied than ever before. The wild insect herds have all vanished from that region, replaced by a larger and more territorial species. Local Hunters are dying in droves, unable to deal with this new threat. Cattle and tame insect herds grazing on the wrong side of the river vanish overnight.
There have been a few towns that have vanished as well, and you only know this because there are rare route cancellations posted in the travel section. Travel to outlander towns is infrequent, however, so there isn't much effect on the general populace.
The Crusaders are building up a more substantial military presence, requiring even more resources from the Autonomous Regions than the daily tithes. Debt slaves have been being moved around to strategic locations, including the regions responsible for bio-plastic, guns, and steel.
Letters from home confirm your theory-- the workload at the Number 9 mines is becoming crippling. Literally. Other Eric's father died in a mineshaft cave-in, and Quincy's mother lost a leg in the same.
The local 'Families' have to provide more monetary and material support. Emma shows you a letter from home, describing how the Thornton family has to volunteer their scientists and military trainers, as well as pay higher taxes. You notice it's in an ingenious cipher-- it doesn't mention any positions within the family, just names and how they've moved and how bad taxes are this year.
Quote from: The Holy Book of SEED
...SEED is a great presence, a holy filling spirit that guides humanity through its darkest times and its brightest. Clad within its holy coat, it protects the growing might that will change the world and bring about Utopia for all who have followed it's Holy Words. Rejoice.
The Coat of SEED provides the great foundations for the center of learning and holy thought, the Holy City, SEED's rest...
...through SEED, man learned fire, and how to tame the Wild of the world...
...in its darkest histories, the Crusades, SEED has spoken directly to the lucky populace of the Holy City. It has given advice, given warnings, and announced edicts. Many cannot understand SEED's words, requiring the Scholars to translate it for the masses...
...truly, the love SEED has for humanity that it ripped out its wings and [gender-neutral reproductive organs], devouring them to give life to humanity...
[1]You cannot find much more information than this about SEED.
The days drag on, through long-winded lectures, boring sermons, and intense physical training. Live fire training begins, and several of the young Scholars nearly kill themselves and others. Every night as extra work, you must disassemble a las-rifle, clean it, and reassemble it, adding to the already crippling amount of work in your free time. Your classmates look exhausted, and a few of your friends wonder how lousy being a debt-slave is.
[19+3]You encourage them to bear with it, that this difficulty will pass in time. You do well in your intention to motivate your fellow Academians, supporting them with prayers and meditation sessions. The occasional fiery words about suffer not the [demon] to live also help, especially the more aggressive ones. It doesn't hurt as much as you thought it would to lie to them.
[14]You submit your year-end paper, and receive a passing grade. Several of your references were wrong, but you passed with an acceptable margin of points. You receive the top marks in your physical, in firearm handling and breakdown, and slightly less stellar marks in aiming. Eric comes next, followed by McGee and James. Johnathan received the highest praise for his aim, but received average marks for physical endurance and weapon breakdown.
Mathematics took you a while to grasp, but they come intuitively to you, you realize. You do well in that as well. However, some of the more complicated math problems still make you have an aching headache. Physics and Chemistry, you also do well in, but the life sciences allude your understanding on a fundamental level. Something about [carbon] bonding so much is difficult to pick up on. If you study harder, you might be able to understand more.
By the end of the week, you receive a very slim envelope in your room. Your heart sinks. Maybe you didn't do well on the test like you originally thought-- everyone else received a massive envelope. But yours is different, you realize as you prise it open. It contains two documents, a list of jobs with pay, and a map. Benefits remain roughly the same, room and board in a mixed-gender dormitory, prepared foods, healthcare, uniforms, dress outfit, etc, but that's to be expected early on in your Scholarly Career. You receive an extra day of free time during the week for non-Crusader postings.
Code: (Postings, Summarized) [Select]
Crusader General Infantry(Only Defensive Line Districts): [.1 credits]
Crusader Junior Officer(Only Defensive Line Districts): [.16 credits]
Crusader Security Officer: [.11 credits]
Entry Level Crusader Security Officer Management: [.11 credits]
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician (Only In Refinery District): [.12 credits]
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer: [.12 credits]
Spoiler: Map of SEED City State (click to show/hide)
Quote from: A Letter Within
Dear Pheobe Gainer,
We hope that you are your grandmother's granddaughter, but understand if you decide to blaze your own path. Regardless of what you do, you will be a valuable asset to SEED and the Great Work.
Your's Faithfully,
Crusader General Thomas Harrdy
You have a week to decide.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map of Local Area (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on March 10, 2020, 04:13:47 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 10, 2020, 05:42:49 am
They seem to be the fighting job that gets paid the most, from our last fight we clearly see that we enjoy them
Rescinded, actual vote below
Post by: TamerVirus on March 10, 2020, 07:18:18 am
Lets go see if Emma has decided what she's going to do so we can try to do the same thing.+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2020, 11:28:30 am
+1Lets go see if Emma has decided what she's going to do so we can try to do the same thing.+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 10, 2020, 04:26:01 pm
"I wish you were more [hellish]."
Hmm. It almost seems Brother Hop wants us to tap into our [demonic] nature... I wonder.
+1Lets go see if Emma has decided what she's going to do so we can try to do the same thing.+1
One more +1 for the +1 pile; talking this over with Emma's as good a way to approach the question as any.
That discussion aside, I'm mightily tempted to ignore the Crusader postings entirely and spring for a scholar's post instead. Mother Nicole will be displeased, I expect, and the crusader's life would probably be ideal for reclaiming our old self... but Mother Nicole doesn't control our decision here, and I don't like our old self. Alphira was (far as we know) violent and miserable. Phoebe Gainer is not. The [demon] war will probably catch up to us sooner or later, but for now-- for now, I'd like to chase after whatever semblance of a happy life we can get.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 10, 2020, 04:38:19 pm
+1, Rescinding previous vote"I wish you were more [hellish]."
Hmm. It almost seems Brother Hop wants us to tap into our [demonic] nature... I wonder.+1Lets go see if Emma has decided what she's going to do so we can try to do the same thing.+1
One more +1 for the +1 pile; talking this over with Emma's as good a way to approach the question as any.
That discussion aside, I'm mightily tempted to ignore the Crusader postings entirely and spring for a scholar's post instead. Mother Nicole will be displeased, I expect, and the crusader's life would probably be ideal for reclaiming our old self... but Mother Nicole doesn't control our decision here, and I don't like our old self. Alphira was (far as we know) violent and miserable. Phoebe Gainer is not. The [demon] war will probably catch up to us sooner or later, but for now-- for now, I'd like to chase after whatever semblance of a happy life we can get.
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2020, 05:00:41 pm
"I wish you were more [hellish]."
Hmm. It almost seems Brother Hop wants us to tap into our [demonic] nature... I wonder.+1Lets go see if Emma has decided what she's going to do so we can try to do the same thing.+1
One more +1 for the +1 pile; talking this over with Emma's as good a way to approach the question as any.
That discussion aside, I'm mightily tempted to ignore the Crusader postings entirely and spring for a scholar's post instead. Mother Nicole will be displeased, I expect, and the crusader's life would probably be ideal for reclaiming our old self... but Mother Nicole doesn't control our decision here, and I don't like our old self. Alphira was (far as we know) violent and miserable. Phoebe Gainer is not. The [demon] war will probably catch up to us sooner or later, but for now-- for now, I'd like to chase after whatever semblance of a happy life we can get.
But should we prepare ourselves for the coming war? I feel like our skills in battle would be better honed as a Crusader rather than as a Scholar.
Post by: Superdorf on March 10, 2020, 05:51:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 10, 2020, 06:28:33 pm
Hm, there is that... well, we'll see how the talk goes.yes, we can talk with Emma, then when we hear what she thinks, we can go from there, Crusader does sound like a plan, at the same time, I want to know if Emma decided yet
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 10, 2020, 10:03:28 pm
"Come in!"
Emma glances over her shoulder and when she sees it's you, she flashes a beaming smile. There are dozens of papers and letters haphazardly organized on her desk. Propped up against the wall is the same map you received, and she has a number of pins in place. You take a moment to admire her organizational talent, and her in general.
"Impressive." You comment, and she giggles a little at the innuendo.
"I have too many offers!" She claims. "I have to sort them out somehow."
"I didn't get that many." You explain, showing her the three documents. Her eyes find the letter and go wide, she takes it from you and reads it over, "You got a letter from the Crusader General?"
"Didn't everyone?"
"No." Emma explains, "We mostly got letters from random officers or scientists."
"So, have you decided where you want to go?"
"I kinda wanted your advice on that? I mean, if we're...staying together through this..." She trails off, reclaiming her seat and looking through the letters, "It should be good for both of us, right? Is there a particular region or something you wanted to do? I've got a lot of opportunities-- entry-level medical officer in the defensive line, a couple of more rural postings, a scientist needing a scribe..." She goes on, glancing back at you with each one to see what peaks your interest.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 10, 2020, 10:17:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2020, 10:41:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 10, 2020, 10:56:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2020, 10:57:43 pm
Let's look through our combined offers with Emma, and try to work out what double postings are available to us.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 10, 2020, 11:26:07 pm
Code: (Double Postings) [Select]
Crusader Junior Officer-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader General Infantry-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader Security Officer-Broad Variety (Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Outer Holy City)
Entry Level Crusader Security Officer Management-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs)
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
Crusader Security Officer-Entry Level Research Technician (Farmland 2) Emma mentioned something about a camp needing guards and scientists
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery)
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2020, 11:59:04 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 12:07:42 am
Rather than pick out a particular posting we like, let's discard a few we don't want and run the remainder by Emma.
"I'd rather we stay away from the defensive lines... too close to trouble. I could see myself working some of these security posts, though!"
Quote from: Double Postings
Crusader Junior Officer-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader General Infantry-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader Security Officer-Broad Variety (Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Outer Holy City)
Entry Level Crusader Security Officer Management-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs)
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
Crusader Security Officer-Entry Level Research Technician (Farmland 2) Emma mentioned something about a camp needing guards and scientists
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery)
"Or there's these energy-work positions, if we really want to keep clear of things..."
Quote from: Double Postings
Crusader Junior Officer-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader General Infantry-Entry Level Crusader Medical Officer (Only Defensive Line Districts)
Crusader Security Officer-Broad Variety (Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Outer Holy City)
Entry Level Crusader Security Officer Management-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs)
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
Crusader Security Officer-Entry Level Research Technician (Farmland 2) Emma mentioned something about a camp needing guards and scientists
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery)
"Thoughts?"
Quote from: Suggested postings
Crusader Security Officer-Broad Variety (Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Outer Holy City)
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher[/b]
Crusader Security Officer-Entry Level Research Technician (Farmland 2) Emma mentioned something about a camp needing guards and scientists
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2020, 12:30:03 am
The Holy City is the center of civilization, at least, as far as you know.
"We'll still have to separate for a while for training, but six months apart isn't that bad-- we can write to each other! And once we get out of Academy we get time off, if we're close we could manage something." Despite her usual cheerfulness and her easy smile, you can tell it bothers her.
Post by: ZBridges on March 11, 2020, 12:32:45 am
I want to get as far away from that thing as possible, personally, but I'll settle for anything not in the city itself.
Express concerns about not being welcome in The Holy City for... reasons.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 11, 2020, 05:24:23 am
I don't think we're on speaking terms with the Holy SEED in the Holy City. Apparently we tried to stab it? The last time a demon was at the gates of the Holy City, it spawned an angel to destroy it, so that worries me.+1
I want to get as far away from that thing as possible, personally, but I'll settle for anything not in the city itself.
Express concerns about not being welcome in The Holy City for... reasons.
Post by: King Zultan on March 11, 2020, 07:13:40 am
+1I don't think we're on speaking terms with the Holy SEED in the Holy City. Apparently we tried to stab it? The last time a demon was at the gates of the Holy City, it spawned an angel to destroy it, so that worries me.+1
I want to get as far away from that thing as possible, personally, but I'll settle for anything not in the city itself.
Express concerns about not being welcome in The Holy City for... reasons.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2020, 04:08:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 04:41:25 pm
Quote from: Suggested postings
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher[/b]
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery
"Have you a preference?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 11, 2020, 04:44:27 pm
Smile. "That would work fine... and that leaves us with these two."”if you don’t have a preference, I’m thinking Fusion Reactor Maintenance”Quote from: Suggested postingsEntry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher[/b]
Entry Level Fusion Reactor Maintenance Officer-Broad Variety(Steelworks 1-8, Bioplastic, Farmland Districts 7-8, Suburbs, Bioplastic, Hydrogen Refinery
"Have you a preference?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 04:48:51 pm
”if you don’t have a preference, I’m thinking Fusion Reactor Maintenance”
Sure, is as good a position as any-- still, say this one only if Emma expresses no particular opinion on the matter. Might be there's something here we've not considered, after all.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 11, 2020, 04:53:20 pm
yes, only say this if Emma has no preference”if you don’t have a preference, I’m thinking Fusion Reactor Maintenance”
Sure, is as good a position as any-- still, say this one only if Emma expresses no particular opinion on the matter. Might be there's something here we've not considered, after all.
Post by: ZBridges on March 11, 2020, 05:17:41 pm
+1”if you don’t have a preference, I’m thinking Fusion Reactor Maintenance”
Sure, is as good a position as any-- still, say this one only if Emma expresses no particular opinion on the matter. Might be there's something here we've not considered, after all.
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 05:25:47 pm
Recall, we destroyed a bloodline for this. I figure we've earned it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2020, 05:58:17 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 11, 2020, 06:02:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2020, 06:27:43 pm
"It's a little uncomfortable, and a bit worrying...but I wouldn't hold you back if it's what you want to do."
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 07:02:52 pm
Quote from: Suggested posting
Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
"This is better." (Smile!)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 11, 2020, 08:00:47 pm
"Insects..." (Shudder.) "I remember [insects]."+1 ((wait, all we remember of insects is how they taste, I don’t think we’ve seen a live oNe, so the top one doesn’t make sense, especially since it tasted good))Quote from: Suggested postingEntry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
"This is better." (Smile!)
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 08:15:26 pm
I don’t think we’ve seen a live oNe
Phoebe Gainer hasn't. Alphira has had some terrible experiences with them, if our dreams are anything to go by.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 11, 2020, 08:18:32 pm
ah, thanks, so that was the silver thing that shredded our comrade?I don’t think we’ve seen a live oNe
Phoebe Gainer hasn't. Alphira has had some terrible experiences with them, if our dreams are anything to go by.
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 08:20:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 11, 2020, 10:57:48 pm
+1"Insects..." (Shudder.) "I remember [insects]."+1 ((wait, all we remember of insects is how they taste, I don’t think we’ve seen a live oNe, so the top one doesn’t make sense, especially since it tasted good))Quote from: Suggested postingEntry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician-Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Researcher
"This is better." (Smile!)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2020, 10:59:50 pm
Always a sucker for free food, especially with your appetite, you agree.
The night on the town is one filled with fun. After dinner at a lovely restaurant, courtesy of Emma, you hit up the bar with your other classmates. Emma and you get pretty drunk, stumbling your way home. The two of you collapse into your bed, giggling, giddy from the choice, the alcohol, and each other.
[-] You sleep well throughout the night, fitfully stirring only once in your sleep, only for Emma's close presence to give you comfort against your nightmares. She holds you close like she always does, and you fall back to sleep with a smile on your face.
[-] The next morning, however, you awake to a knocking on your door. Confused and groggy, you untangle yourself from Emma, get dressed, and open it
Your grandmother stands on the other side, smiling at you widely with something that you would call pride. Before you can even speak, she pulls you close in a tight, awkward hug. You blink, surprised by the affection and even more surprised by her presence. Brother Hop stands a respectful distance away in an 'at ease' position, hands clasped behind his back, eyes forward and up, not quite comfortable in the presence of his former mentor.
"Pheobe, dear, I'm so prou--" She trails off awkwardly when Emma awakens, and the two stare at each other in a state of shock. Emma hastily mumbles an apology, and you close the door while she dresses. She flees the room, while you and Mother Gainer contemplate the other.
"Emma Thornton?" Nicole asks, incredulous, taking a seat at your desk while you tidy your bed and claim a seat there to face her, uncomfortable. Brother Hop somehow manages to look smug while keeping a neutral expression.
Well then.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map of Local Area (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 11, 2020, 11:49:23 pm
Nod. "Emma Thornton! A friend that became something more."
Post by: ZBridges on March 11, 2020, 11:57:40 pm
Welp, here comes the grand debriefing.+1
Nod. "Emma Thornton! A friend that became something more."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 12:05:12 am
Mother Nicole lifts a hand despite your reply, not saying more on the matter. Instead, she changes the subject, glancing at the door to your room thoughtfully. "I'll not judge you-- you're young, after all, and the girl is competent despite her apparent innocence. She was best in class for Academics; I'll let you know."
Brother Hop nods, producing a grading sheet with your name at the top. The words jumbling themselves together for you, however-- it must be in one of the higher scripts, one of the ones that distract you as you try to follow every reference instead of just ignoring it to focus on the actual texts. She glances at the document only occasionally. She nearly has it memorized, judging by the accounting she gives.
"High marks in arithmetic and physics, almost as high as Emma's, correct Child Hop?" The question seems more rhetorical, but Brother Hop nods. "Bad at translations, you nearly didn't pass, did you know that? And of course, as fantastic as expected at the soldierly arts. I dare say you're a better soldier than I was when I was your age, despite the experience difference. A natural aptitude for leadership and training. Beautifully done, Pheobe. Made plenty of friends, according to Hop's surveillance and you managed to secure a good connection with a rising Family. "
"The Thorntons haven't been as lippy lately, so well done with that whole affair. They've raised concerns with your ability to make hard decisions though-- they promise it'll come back to bite you in the ass later." Mother Nicole leans on the table, looking tired.
[-]Despite her exhaustion on the matter, she's genuinely proud, and makes it easy to see.
"What did you decide on for your Posting?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 12:10:26 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 12:37:47 am
...probably worse. Possibly much worse.
"Entry Level Hydrogen Refinery Technician, Mother Nicole. I hope to improve my abilities in science and physics through a relevant posting."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 01:06:49 am
"Brother Hop says you've been reading the newspapers." She sighs, a frown twisting her lips as she looks away, at the map you've tossed hastily on your desk the night before. "When do you think we'll be at war?"
[10] You feel like this is a test, but more concerning is how she doesn't quite look at you, fixated on the map with a dull look in her eye.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 01:15:42 am
"I would expect within the next ten years, but we are already dealing with militant, desperate Outlanders attempting to push further inwards, seeking safety at any cost. Thus, in some ways the war could be said to have already begun. I agree that it is not a matter of if, but when."
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 01:17:07 am
"...but I expect you know more about that than I do. You look exhausted, grandmother."
Edit: Ach, I've been ninja'd! :D
Ah-hm, I'll just steal a thing or two from that and revise... keep the tone, grab some details. Nice and knowledgeable and respectful-like.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 01:43:20 am
-----
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 01:47:28 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 01:50:32 am
"I was supposed to arrive yesterday, darling, but someone or ... more likely, something, shot down the hovercraft that makes its way through the regions, picking up passengers and dropping them off here and there. All told, two hundred people died, thirty of these were Crusaders." Mother Nicole traces her fingers on the map, on the defensive lines. "Shot it down, right in our territory. We sent a platoon to recover it and any survivors-- when they got to the crash site, a swarm of [insects] were there to meet them. The platoon unequipped to deal with them, only managed to confirm our fears before being killed in action. An after-action report also reported lost contact with one of the camps on the way into the wasteland." A finger hovers over Defensive Region number five, as she explains.
"Scouts reported all dead. So, not only is our enemy able to project great force into one of our most defended regions, but they also secured a hover-craft."
"[the plague] infects machines just the same as it does people. Not only that, but it can also replicate and learn from technology it is given."
Mother Nicole does look tired, "Did you know that there's only one battalion of anti-aircraft in the Crusader's army? It's currently stationed in the Holy City. The Elders refuse to move it to protect, say...the Refinery, our primary source of fuel. But they have a point-- if we move it, [the plague] could infect our God, if they don't, we could be crippled."
"Suffice to say, our industrial machine is working as fast as it can to protect from this threat, but new factories have to be built, debt-slaves moved, overseers and skilled workers transferred in. It's quite a mess." A wry smile twists her way over her face, "Steelworks Nine managed to secure the contract, as well as one for a new weapons plant. Some good, eh?"
"Dear, I hate to say this, but the war started long before you walked into my office. It started when I was your age." Mother Nicole reaches over, giving your hand a gentle squeeze, a morose look on her face, "It sounds like you had a good life planned."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map of Local Area (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 01:53:39 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 01:55:53 am
"I... I did. I do."
How about that, plus:
"Is this a resurgence of the earlier plague, or an entirely new plague? I thought you destroyed it, so many years ago. Regardless, this just means that you need to augment your industrial complex more than ever. As you said, you will need engineers to weather the storm."
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 02:05:42 am
"I... I did. I do."
"Is this a resurgence of the earlier plague, or an entirely new plague? I thought you destroyed it, so many years ago. Regardless, this just means that you need to augment your industrial complex more than ever. As you said, you will need engineers to weather the storm."
Say this, but put some feeling into it. Break it up, give Mother Nicole chances to respond in kind-- make an argument of it. Find out what's expected of us. Find out what sort of a life we can still build for ourself.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 02:09:31 am
Good sentiment. Just needs a bit of emotion.+1
"I... I did. I do.""Is this a resurgence of the earlier plague, or an entirely new plague? I thought you destroyed it, so many years ago. Regardless, this just means that you need to augment your industrial complex more than ever. As you said, you will need engineers to weather the storm."
Say this, but put some feeling into it. Break it up, give Mother Nicole chances to respond in kind-- make an argument of it. Find out what's expected of us. Find out what sort of a life we can still build for ourself.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 02:44:48 am
[9] Brother Hop steps forward, between the two of you, and you shoot him the darkest glare you can muster. To your credit, he flinches, but doesn't back down, a stoic scowl across his face as he shields Mother Nicole from your wrath. To her credit, Mother Nicole doesn't flinch, watching you with mild annoyance.
[-] "Stand your sorry ass down, Tyler-- don't you dare intervene. If she kills me, then we're fucked anyway. No need to kill the damn failsafe too." She barks at the soldier, who, gives you one dark glare, and moves away. "Better yet, leave me alone with my grandchild and get out of here before you piss her off more."
You stare at her, breathing hard, feeling the pressure of the plas-pistol reactor on your table starting to fluctuate with your mood. The display begins to scramble, and Mother Nicole gives it a sideways glance. She doesn't seem surprised or concerned, more interested in it than anything. But she doesn't speak, and you're left standing there, staring her down for far too long.
You begin to almost feel silly, but that doesn't help the roaring beast in your blood.
"I will provide Emma a posting far away from the fighting. Far enough away that even if the Holy City falls, she will live a good life. She will be with the top members of her field, learning from some of the best. If everyone dies, she will survive. I'll burn every last city myself to ensure that, dear, if you care about her this much."
[1]Her words only anger you more. She wants to use Emma as a hostage. She doesn't blink as you snatch up the plas-pistol and grip it tightly in your hand. You feel the reactor hum to life, the safety shorting out in a small burst of sparks.
"As for you, I intend to make you the next McCreary, but I can't do that with a damn technician! I hope you'll live through it, but death is the only certainty of life." It feels right, don't save them, your finger slipping into the trigger guard. Your first instinct is a dark thought indeed, you hand twitching before you restrain yourself. She holds your hands on it, leaning forward to look you in the eye.
"So, will you fight for the thing you love or cling desperately to the hope that one day everything will be okay? Will you live your entire life in a shadow or step into the light and seek redemption?" Mother Nicole quotes the SEED Holy Book, a Scripture for the Outcast, and the Outlanders. She speaks softly, looking less like a towering figure of her Crusader past but more and more like an old woman, seeking help. You realize you're pressing the las-pistol hard against her chest, hard enough to leave a mark through her robe. She doesn't state the third option, but something else does.
Emma is of questionable morals-- she would still love us. She'd love us even more if you took her away from all this. Pull the trigger on Black Nicky. Pull the trigger on Brother Hop. Leave. Never come back. They'll be too distracted in the west to look for us...we could have freedom...and if the plague comes for us, we'll destroy that too. A different voice than the rest bubbles through your consciousness, one urging blood and battle. It burns your brain like fire. Its right though, isn't it? Apparently this is the only way you can solve your problems in this hellhole, the only way these morons understand that this is your life.
B̵̧̭̭̫̞͕̫̮̯̝̦̕͠r͢͏҉͏̧̻̤͕͉̯̰͖̫o̸̹̦̜͇͞͠t̵̨̧͈̤͙̞͖̭͉h̵̛̺̲̫͎͖̻̙̬̝̻͉͎̯͚̖̝͔̙̕͠e̷̢̛͍̬͔͎̲͖͔̝̤̦̳̱̻͘ͅr̀̕͏͏͕̝͔̼̰͙̮̫̹̫̦̲̝͉ ̯͎̲͖̘͝͡ͅH̡̛̘̜̪̺̪̣̕͢ͅơ̴̢͍̥̤͖̞̳̬̜͉̰͕̤͔̼̜͢ͅp̶̧̯̣̲̫̲̯̲̮͉͉͔̯̕ ̢͖͚̫̰̼̤͓͕̟̲̖͉͚̺̫͟͝͡h҉̣̬̖̠͇̲̤̪̗̣̮͙̘͎̬͚͕̜́a҉̡̘̞̱̥̺̥͓̟͈̩̼͎̬̪̮̯̦͉̕͠͠s̸̢̛̝͇̟̹͈̺͖͉͜ ̷̤͎̻̥̦̻̗͓́a̶͏̧̬͉̫̭̮̩̲̘͕̜̦̝͢ ̦̲͇̤̹͇̣͚̙͘͢g̢̡̛͔̰̘͘͜u͏̶͏̝̩̮ͅń̛̯̺̰̺͇̖̗̹̕ ̷̤̜̣̝̕͝͡ṕ̟̲͓͖͖͙̯̤̟͔̻̳͖̪̞͎̣͈ͅơ̕͏̹̺͔͓i̛̥̞͖̲̹̰̪̤͢n͠҉̰͙̮̬͈͔͍̭͓̦̣͖̰̮͉͈̥ͅţ̵̛̦̲̭̲͎͙̬̖̥͓̙̝̤̞̝͞ͅe̛͙͈̣͚̣̣̟̕͘̕͝d̵͇̜̥̻̰̘͈̳̯͎̦̹͍͍͈͎̙̙͜͡ͅ ̶̛̜͕̹͔͎͓̯̫̰̠̮͢͟͟á̟͉̝͉͟͡͝͝t̸̷̡̨̢̖͈̞̭̩͈̬̞̼ ̡̗͚̖̼̝͔͓̰̠̙̣̜̘̣͘͠u̢̧͞͏͖͚̬͇s̶̛̘͇͇̖̣͈̝͡,̧̟͓̲͇͉͉̩̮̬͓͉̭̖͖̪̕͟͝ͅ ̴̡̛̟̥͉̲̰̭̮̤̱̬̘̥̕͢ͅͅt̴̶̷̡͉͓̬̫̜̣̩͕̠͔̲̰h̗̩͙̭͈̮̻͜r̷̞̮̫̳͉͘͜͞ǫ̣̮̝̲̬͡ù̡̻̯̙͚͉̬̖̥͔̟̣͡g͏̡̠̖̮͍̳͎͇̠͉̼́͠͞h̨̠̙͈̟̮̘͙͕̮͎͔͓͕̦̻ͅ ͏̯̦̙̮̯̮̜͙̳̫͎̕͟ͅt̶̀͟͡͏͉̘͕̝̫̩̼̪͇h҉҉̷̗͓̹͚̞̀̕e҉̨̨͙̩͙̥̹̠̮͉̲̯̠͍̖̪̺̜͉͍ ̸̡͕̞̬̯̬͉̺͓̦̭͉̺̠͕͚̕͡ͅd̟̺̬̭̯̖͙̭̭̻̖̼̯̥͜o̟͇͉̘̖̠̗̮͙̟̤̞̕͜o̵͜͡͏҉̳͔͈̫͈̘̺̩̥̖ŕ̝͉̟̲͈͍͇̗͍̘̩͎̩͈͎͜.̨̜̹͇̭̹̟̯̼͓̹̬̙͚͙̣́͟͡ͅ. Something else warns, cold and monotonous. Anger lances through you at the betrayal.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map of Local Area (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 02:50:38 am
Abort abort abort
Drop the las-pistol to the floor and sit down. We are Phoebe Gainer, and we threw our lot in with Emma so we could leave this kind of inhumanity behind.
"my old name... wants me... back"
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 02:51:40 am
Holy cow.+1 and try to calm down. Decisions made in anger are rarely wise. Don't listen to the gold voice.
Abort abort abort
Drop the las-pistol to the floor and sit down.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 03:04:51 am
[17] "Dear--" Emma's voice calls out from the hallway, cutting off your grandmothe-- your grandmother. Nicole Gainer. S̶h̗̰̼̫̞̤̯́e̜͖̝̫͚00 ͏͙̦̖̠i̥̲͈͝s͓͔͎̀n҉̺̯̩̹͇͚'t͉ ̘̯̩̭̥ͅt͎h̲̪̕o̷u̬̮͖͇͙̩̣g̳̪h̻,͓̘͔͚̲͚ ́ș̬̟̖̟̰h̫̰e̢̠̞͔̥̣͈'̮̦̝̝͈s̩̹ ͎̫̬͉̦j̱̮̣͚̤͓ú̲st ̩̗͇̭͔̩u̱̮͙̱̦s̼̫̮̱ìͅn̛g̟̰̻ ͚͉͓ỳ̲͈̥ou̠̖͕̞̭ ͕͎̜̯͈̦́l̡̫̺̺̭̙̗ḭ̲͎̳͉͜ḳ̝̻̼̖͚̪e̤͘ ̶͓̺̘a̸ ̫̻ͅw̸̪̳̜e̖̳͚̥̰a̙̰̼̻͢p̨̹͉̹͇̙o̼̤̥̪͚̮̹n̮̣͚͎͘ ̲̼͎̻̕j̧̰͈̣̦u̴̗͈ͅs̞t̥̮͎̫͕͇͔ ̡̪͚̰̙̲͕̰li͍̗̤͓͍̫̝k̺͚̤e̢͚̮̰̪ ̼̣̲eṿẹ̷̖͎̮̖r͓̩̀y̟̙͈̘o̥̣̜̩͈̹n̻̼̩͟e̡̞̹̮ ͞e̛̦l̹͞s̭̖̟̕e̲͔̲͚͡00 ͉͔͙͠d̞̦̼͕͔͙͇o̴e̠͢s̰̺̜͔̯,̠͇͇͜ ̝̱̪̲̜͕̕t̘̥͟ͅo̫̻͎̰͞ ͏f͚̣i͢g̸͉͕͍͎h̘͔͍̩̝̻̤t͎̳̻̠͔̗ ̠h͡e̶̯͇͖̪r҉͉͕̤̜͎ͅ ̲͕̼̼̙̜p̷̱̪͙͔̲͔e̢̝̮t̛͎̜͚̱͎̺̳t͈̥y̻̯͎͖̩̗͟ͅ ̰͎͉̖̬w͉̲̯͈̱á̼͖̪̜̖ͅr̨ ̧o̼v̼͍̫͉͖͝e̱̱̮̻ͅr̞̬̙̬̳̯ ̸a ̠̠̬̞̮̕p̠̦͍̻̭̫͇͢a̗̲̣͚̖̮̳t̫̠̗̖ͅh͔͓̪̕e̹t̬̟̦̥̬ͅi̳̣͕̮̬̩̼c̟̭̻͇ͅ ̱̞͎̞̳͚w̕o͎͓͔̜͍̦r̙̗̩̬̯̕l̰͓͙̲͝d̥̳͚̼̹͝.̘͎͎̲͢ ͇͍͖͢B͕̠u̱͔͉̼͔ͅŕ͇n̬͞ ̱̖i͉̜̳̤͔t̟͖.̧̬͚̙ ̞̫̰B̰͡u͔͉r͉̩̲̖͍͓͢n͜ he͙̹͓͔̠̱͢r̜͉.
Your hand trembles. Why is she so loud.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 03:10:09 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 03:18:53 am
I think I finally figured this out.
We're not a [demon.]
We bound one!
Or maybe it bound us. I dunno. Point is, we're using it somehow and it's not us.
We're kind of a mess now, but we're human and we've got a human's will
and we can still turn this around.
We have some apologies to make, and a lot to explain, and probably some grieving to do... but first, we're going to have to snap out of it. Mother Nicole's not our enemy here-- for the love of everything we've built for ourselves here, remember who we've become and let go of the las-pistol.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 03:45:59 am
The door opens, and you are unsurprised when you see Brother Hop has a gun pointed at you, struggling desperately to hold Emma back from the room.
[18] Emma looks shocked at you, her eyes filling briefly with revulsion and fear. E͖̙͎̘̭͈̯͈̖͎̙̤̕͢͠M̛̪͈̳̣̩̭̰̳͇͍̺͈̕ͅM̶̢͏̵̛̤̗͖͔̝A̴͚̮̠͈̪̖͖̺͈̱̝͟͞-̧̛̞͚̹̤͓̜͕̠͎̙͈̤͔̭̹̼͎̗̕͢͞-̸̧̜͍̦͍̬͕̺͎͔̲̤͚̕͢ ̢̢̛̲̝͉̪̼͕̩̥͝w̧̢҉̛̙͙̭͈͉̱̖̳̳è̡̛̞͖̙̠̹̘̥̺͍̠̻̰̙̮̺ ͞͏̨͔̺̫̲̣͓͕͖͍̗͈̳̗͖̬ͅͅd̴͚̟̤̗̘̣͍̞͙̖͎̦͍̖̮̥͉͢ͅo̡̧̟̖̳̬̻̫͓̼̥̫̮̟ͅṉ̷̡͎̭̫͈̩̰̝͖͓̥̪̻͝͡ͅ'̸̹̺̝̝̣̣͚̬͘͢t͏̮̯̬̱̰͍̻̲̝̰̜̪̝͎̩̲̥͈̕͟ ҉͉̠̭̱̤̥̘̦͉̖̻̳̀̀͢͡n͠҉҉̴͉̤̥̝̗̞̥̘͜ę̷̸̨͉͍̣̤̜͖̟̲̝͕̟͚̥e̸̷̤͕̺̺͈̰͎̥͓͖̤̬̮̞d͇̩̯͎̣͚͖̪̝̙̀̀͜ͅ ̸̢̜̫͍͎̫̦͇͘E̸͉̟̫̫̜͈̟̭̰͎͔͓͎̱͈͕͙m̸̰̟̫̜m̢̥̙̰͎̲̮̩̗̠̹̗͍̙̯̣̟̼͠ͅa҉̵̷̵̦̫̫̜̣̯͝ ̦̪̩̖͍͇̲͉̞͘͟t̵̬̲̪̣̗̦̭́ǫ̷̨̖̙̟̠̯̝̞̰̬͕̮̞̱ ̷̧̩̟̘̻͙͈̱͈̭̀̕͝s̷҉̱̭̣̙̤͎̺͇͔̰͔͕̹t̵̕҉͏̘̩̲̜͚̫͎̫̘̖̙̳̣̥͍̬̠͝o̕͟͏̧̖̘̤̠̦̠̬̻̞̭̮͡p͏̜̣̫̺̭̬̜̹̩̞̀͜ ͏̵̜̖̺̕ͅt̨̢̜̖̲̝̜͕͕̺̼̤͟͢h̸̡̛̳͓͙͓͚̝̪̪̳͇̦̼͈͝ḙ̛̘̞̳̬̮̹̦̰͞ ̡̛̙̝͍̪̫̫̪͉͘͝͡ͅn͏̸҉̧̩͇̯̖̲̠̤̻̜̙i̴̡̧̪͚͎̖̲̟̥̯̖̫͎̥̻̞̼̳̝͟͞ͅͅǵ̴͍͕̣̝̹̱̦͕͔͖̥͉͓̩͎̳̭̮ͅh̶͖̟͈͔̰͈͘͞t҉̩̯̰͉̤m̶̞͇̯̞͓̱̠͉̜̥̳͈̘̀ͅa̢̪̘̹̯̞̙̜̭͕͎̺̦̻͍̕͝͡r̡̛̖̱̼̼͖̻̫̭͈̻ͅe͟҉҉̶̦̫͈̼̪̮͙͍̬͇̳̬̦́ͅs͠҉͈̟͓͙̻̳̹̺̤̭̗̩̬ͅ,͝͏̷̰̥̱̻͈̮͖͇̗̞͎͔͍̥͉̩͘ͅͅ ͟͟҉̸̫̩̲͔̯̝̺̱͘I̴̸̷̤͕̙͎̬͇͔̟̜̙͘͜ͅͅ ̸̤͇̙͎̘̥̘̳͔̭̙̠̭̲̖͉̟ͅp̵̥̼͓̳r͈̮͙̭̰͉͍̀͢ͅò̵̴̢͖̞̭͈̳̻͉͍̥̟͕̖̝̝̩͔͟m̼̝͈̰̦̹͖̹̘̗̪̪͔̲̬͜͢i͏҉̛̭͈̪̹͖̗̪͠s̶̜̩̹̘͕͝e̞͔̰͉̲͕̟̙͖̹̤̘̖̭̮̺͔̳̖͟͝-̸̷̴͖̮͍͚͙̳̙͜͞ͅ-̶͚̘͚̘̺͟ś͏͓̘̠̩̜̭̣̘̙̟̦̰̞͕̺͓̥ͅh̢̛̠̦͉̼̣͜͞͞o̷͜҉̢̹̲̮͉̗͈̬͇̙͙̪̦͈͉͈̞̰̟͞ͅơ̛͙̼͖͙̹̠͖̱̟͉̺̠̖͙͘͡t̶̲̤͖̪̼͇͈̘͎̰͠ ͟͡҉̘̞͙͙̙̖̺̮͍ͅh̶̡̠̦͙̤̖̘̣͎̘̠͖̰͇̩̮̣̕͝ͅͅe̵͏҉͉͙̟͓̱̪̰̱̘̥̜̘͈̼̱̳̣͟ͅŗ̶̡͈͍̩̗̜̼͙͕̱̳͕͎̲́-̢҉̰̜̹̫̯̗͎̦̱̱͘ ̛͍͎͓̲̥͔͖̥͉͍͕̬̼͉̗̦͎̀͢s̵̡҉̶̺̘̹͓͎̲̳h̴̨̠̦̼̰̻̙͖̲̪̩͡ơ̟͇͖͓͖̗̩̫̼̺̲̤͚̩͈͔ͅo͉̤͈͎͇̞̫̠̜̹̬͟͞ͅt̸̺̤͔͇̥͚͈̀̕͡͡ ̴̷̨͎̗̹̖̫͎́͡ḩ̶̶̧̗̺̰͙͈̲͈͖̠̹͔̺̮̘é͉̱̫̖̲͔͓̱̞̦̜̤̪͎̯͖͝r̶̨͕̞͍̞̪̩͞ ̵̷̢̺̭͎͚͇̩̙̠̙̟̥̯̮͈̬̬͠d̴̼̖͔̥̪̖̙̀͞ò͙̩͈̳͇̖̫̬̱͇̻͍̟̘͇͇̲w̥̱̖̩̩͈̼̲̦̰͖͔̪̹̤̳͉͝n͏̛̼͓̯̼̘̳̥̪͟͞͠!̛̣͈͍̥̲͍̻̤̰͡ ̡̢̡͕̝̗̘͕̤̘͎̭͇͓̕͢ͅḺ̴̵̫͎̠̤̘̩̥̖̭̟̠̕͝ͅơ͏̭̱̻̦̤͉̼̘̤̺̘͚̗́o҉͉̺̖̖̖̥̝͢͟ḱ̡̞͔̝̟͍̱̦̺̘̻̯͕͔̪̩̭̥̗̀ ̷̣̦̼̲̱̮̳͢ͅa̡͏̰̤̯͉̝̺̱̥̖͍̟̙͎͍̼͚ͅͅt͏̸̙͈̗̗̭̫̻̜̮͙͔̲̞̼̀ͅ ̴̸͕̩̤̳̙̭͈͞h҉̯͔̯̘͔̮͝͡e̕҉͈̦̖̭̥̠̫̜̘̯̝̱̗̟͙͢ŕ̡̥̪̪͖̤̹͕͟͞,̸̧̠̟͙̦̼̞̳͖͈̤̲̙͇̥̜̩̀̕͡ ̷̢̧͓͇̱̺̯̣͜l̸̛͙̱͈͔͔͎̲̹̬̹̰̙̰͉̙̼͜ǫ̤͔̺̦̰̜̞͈̱͉̰o͟͏̧̠̫̣̦̭͚̠̗͕̩̙̯͎͇͈̹̭̱̞͡͞k̴͚͉̩̬̤̠͓̹͡ ̶̨̟̳̩̪̜̝͖̝͖͙̝͓͚̝̙̞͎͇͡a͢҉̺̤̰͉̟͈̺̠ͅt̛̼̱̯͉͎͢͝ ̪̠̬̳̞̱͖̗͉̀͘͜͠h̨͈̮͖͕̺͢͠͠o̴̹͇͍͈͈̘̲̼̥̮͔̲̕͜͝͠w͢͡͏̺͎̻̪̀ ͏҉̙͔̥̯̫̪̣͎̟̗̝̟̜̜̙̥̜̪̘ś͇̩̬̲̺̹̰͉̰͇͎̖̥̖ͅh̴̸̭̲͎͎͎̠ͅe̛̻̳̜͇̙̜ ̷̫̗͍̱̻͚̥͓̤̱͖͎̻̙̪̲̹̹l̤̫̯̼̬̮͎̼̻͓̗͎̕͢ͅờ̤̟̮̖͓̝̦͈̀o̤̫̤̠͎̭̜͢͟͢͝ͅk̵̨̫̙̮̞͎̠̰̯̪̫̭̝̼̟͉͈s̢͏̝͔͓̻͈̦̠̣̺̩ͅ ̸̷͕̟̩̳̭̳̱͟ͅa̡͎͍͎̫̬̖̱̣̫ţ̛̳̱̣̪͙͎͖̳͎̘̮͜͝ ̧̛̝̩̜̥͖̥̬̬̯͙̭͙̫̗͠ͅỳ̸̸͉͍̻̩͔̪ò̶̹̱͚͕̘̳̠̟̱̘̲̱̪̲͙̘ͅṵ̴̧̻̹͓̻̱̲̜̰̘̳̖̹̯͖͍̮̞͢͠ͅ-̷̴͓̞̼̩͇͔̯͔̲̞̩̻̭̝̰̣̰͝͞ͅ-҉̵̭̲̹̤̘̬͇̮͓̬̖̀̕͝ ̧̙̯̻̫̹̖̯͇̺̦͖͉͕̰͖͓̭̟͞t͎̼͓̪͚̥͖̩̝͟͝h́͞҉̲̬̟̤̰̰̖̰̦a̴̴̬̫̹͚͕͉̤̜͇͍͓̺̣͈̙̙͝ͅͅt̷̢̧̡̠̳̳̞͘s̵҉̩̠͓͍̬͈̳̙͍̜͟ͅ ͏̨̖͍̳̜̪̼̹̗̻̦̮b̷̷̧͕͓̳̘̜̪̳̮̘̱͖͚͉̳̪̠̗͘ͅę̫͙̳̬̻̤͚̲͔̰͔̦̫͜c̷̪̬̦̰̯̫̪̠̘̱̟̞̯̼̠͠a̧̰̟̠͍̮̩̮͜͝͝ù̹̞̱͙̼͇̟͕͝͞s̞͍͚͚̻͔͘͘ȩ̧̛̮̪̣̲̲͉̯̝̮̬̲̮̭̗͜ ̷̶̷̧̗̘͉͚̠͉̯̞̮̟͚̗͈͚͍̪̥̙͡y̢͈̭̦͎ò̻̤̪̝̩̳̠̹̲̬͍͓̳̳͈u̴̱̮͓̞̕ͅ'̢͠͏̛҉̹̻͔̹̦ṟ̨͔̖̪̯̪̣̱̀̕͠e̢҉͍̹͉̜̫̣͇̠̗̫̮̩͉̻̙͈ ̷̲͔̻̼̯̰̙̱̯̀n̸̴̡̮͚̪͉̫̥͔͟͠o͏̷͍̰͕͕̝͔̱̻t̨҉̼̙̞̪̜͔̕ ̥͙̲̞͍̹̖̤̗̣̤̝̪̱͖̝͔̥̭͘͜͢͝ŕ̸̨̙̬̜͎͍͔̫̼̯̜͕̤͎̯̺͍̝̱͘e̢̛҉͠҉̦̥̪̤̮̭̤̺̲a̷̛̜̙̩̖̣̘̬̞̯͢ĺ̡̳̮̼͓̳̫͓̮͝-̧͡͏̫̖̙̠͟-̩̳͍͕̳̳̻̭̙̀ ̡҉͢҉̛̭̱͓͈̗y̶̳̠̯͕͟͝͡͞o͈͓̗̟͇̰͇̭̝̝͖̟̙͈̼̯͟͞u͜͏̲̲͕̻̥̬̪̭̼͕͍̞̞̠͎̘̣͖̀̀ͅ'̴̸̭̟͓̙̺͖͉̀͡r̸̢̢̟̠̹͔̳̣̬͓͜͝e̸̸̬͚̣͈͔̳̹̮̮̟͔ ̹̪̥̠̙̣̩̬̻̖̘͝à͉͕͚̣͍̯̝̹͍̮̣͎͠ ͖͔̤̘̘̬̜̟͍̹̮́̕͜͡͠p̵͠҉͕̼̲̩̝̼̺͍̯̦̤͍ỳ̭̫͕̬͚͉̩̯͉̹͔͘͟s̶̢̛̠̱̰͙̠̣̞͘c̴̀͟͢͏̰̘̲̦̝̱̲̲͇̮̞̰̩̘̟̬h̷̡̲͕̟̩͎̣̘̬̠͇͎̞̟̺̱̘͢ͅͅo̶͉͓͓͙̠̫̮̻̟̦̻̹̮̘͔̱͝͡͝ͅs͞͏̸̭̠̺͕̫̘͙̱̱̤̮ͅi̴̴̢̭̙͔̣̥̙̼̲͙̦̼͍̦̰̜͎ś̖̣̟̙̟̣̖̤͕̥͔͔͎̠̹̹̟͎͟!̦̳̩͟͠͝͡
There are no words from her, no condemnation, no wild accuasation.-- she crosses the room in one quick stride and wraps her arms around you in a tight hug. You're not a weapon. You are Pheobe Gainer. This is your lover, Emma Thornton, the too-smart girl with blond hair. This is your grandmother, Nicole Gainer, who gave you a life, a full name, where before you lived on the streets, long before she knew you were a demon to use as a weapon. Why- why-
You collapse to the floor, too heavy for Emma to hold up. Nicole attempts to prise the gun away, but-- K̷̪̰̞̟̟̝̺̣̜̤͘͞͠͡Į̶̷̶̣̞͈̫̩̜͙̳͔L̵̫̱̯̗̼̣̗̟̙̖̮̩̬̮̕L̶̢̛̠͎̭̞̭̰̤̰̯̦̫͉̪̯͍͘͠ͅ ̵͚̠̮̣̗̯͕͓͈͙̩̤̜̥͉̬̖͓̥͜͟͠H̶̵́҉͇̝̹̪̝͇ͅȨ̭̘͉̕͜ͅR͞҉̼̗̰͓͔̪̼̰̥́.͏̪̜̟͇̭̜̩̠̫̗́...
"[angel], what's happening to you?" Emma whispers, softly, stroking your hair, your face. She's on the verge of tears. You notice she's bleeding-- no you're bleeding- when did-- Everything begins to fade to black as a cold voice intones.
Ḻ̡̪̠͕͓͚̮i̘͍̭͍̖ͅm͠ͅb͇͓̪͚͚̲i̙͙̬̣͢c҉̠ ͉̩͚̬̤̗͝ͅs͈̥̼̗y̷͇͓̞̯s̵͖ṭ̷̙e̳m̡͎͉̪͉̞ͅ ͍̫͠o̜̜̟͚v̴e͖̫̥̦͎͇̺ŗ̹̮̗̳̻̺̝l̜͎͔̲̪̟ơ̻̭͉̼̱a̡͈̩̱͕͓̪d̻̮͇͇ ̕d̲̝é͇͈͇̰̘̖͈te̶̼̝̻̺̤c̢̜t̹̗͇e̟̟̞ͅd͡ͅ.͠ ҉̝̭̤͎̗P̴͙͔͚̩r͇̥̜̰̰̗ob̗̟ab̢i͈͓̱l͏͚̥i̢t̩͇ͅy ̨̹o̹̘͙f͙ ̯̗̭̼͎ca̧̠̫̫̦̣̥̪t͙̙̪̞a̟͇̼c̱͍͕̱̥l̞̲͘y̮̘̟̻̠͢s̴̠̪̗m͢ì̖͉̦̘c͙̬̦̝̭͟ ͓̩̻̟̜̮d͈͇̭i̫̗͙̩̞s̵͚͔̩̫̙c͚͡h̫̪͡a̢̠͈̳̤͇̣͙r̴̼̯g͎̭̞̩̱͚è̙̳ͅ:̧̮̳͈̳̠̺̩ ̦h̸̻̘̜̦i̱̳̼̦̤̞g̷͙̪ḩ̙͚̦̣̳̰.̕ ̧̺̞̬̬̙S̤̺̳̦̟͉̳i̩̮̝̲̥͜ͅt͇̠̙̺͘u̡a͖̜͓̥͇t̨̳̗̙͙̺͍i̯̼̼̟o̧̟̫͎n̬͡a̝͔͔͙̮̣l̖̖̣̪͖ ̫̠͎̭̫̱̯s̵a͎̭̗̺̗̕f̞̦̦̦͞ȩt͍͙͓͢ͅy͍ ̩̱̼̬l̬͖̩̜̗̗̗e͔v̠̩͎̟͖e̴̯̦̭̞͕̖l̤̮̺͔͍:̠h̗͕̥͔ḭ͔͔͎͈͈̫͜g̵̯̘̼̭h͔͍̩̲̦̩̯.̻̹̩̮̭̭ͅ ̸̜͔̭̼Cu͔̖̣̜̘r͚͇͕̮͙̖͉r͕͍̮̖̫̬͜e̝͓̦n̮̳̞t̳̹̝͕̻͙ͅ ̭͔̬̭̦̹̹̕P͇͉̤̹͎r̻ͅͅͅi̧̩̯̹o͎̥̝͜r̭i̙͎͓͎t̼͖̟͓̤̜͟y̢̳̠͎͖̘̦ͅ ͘M̨͔͔͍̤ͅi̲͉̝̫͈ͅs̛̲͇̻s͙͜i̶̹̰͈̲ͅǫ̜͖̜ņ͈̝̮̳͍:̵͎̪̳̰ ̷̻Em̻̹̀m͕a̱͇͇͔ ̖͙̼͚Th̝̱͍̦̩o̟̰̩͜r̢̯n̟̞̱̠̪͜t̠o҉̭n̯̼̫̲'̖͖̺͡s̢̼̻̤ ̫S̢͎̲u҉r͏̤̝͍̭͕̺v͚̗̤̰͍i̗̥͕̩v̮͇̳ͅa̹̼̮̫̘͇l̤̣̝͉.̝̩ ̤̖͈̬̱͓P̴͉̠̫̭ͅr̨̘̞̪̞͖̯̥ị̷ó̠͔̜͙͖r͖̦̫̻̻i̬̩̤͖̠̱͟ͅt̝͇͘y̧͓͔͕͎̩͇͕:̼̳͕̳̜̗C͚͙̲͖o̱̮͡n͏t̤̪̩͎̮ḭn̖̯̺̩̯̣u͖e͙̬d̛̲̟̘̟̟̮͈ ͍̣̯̣̖͍S̴̗͕̦͙̲̣̯u̫̟̲r̷̜̦͓v̧̬͍̬͎i̸̭͎ͅv͙͕̙̫̤̻a̜͖l̪̗.̛̪0̱̙͚̠0̞̙̦̞̘͎
̗̟̭̱̭͓̯A̛̱̭ḑr̹̪̤͢e͙n̮̬̳̝̺ạ̱͉͎l̫̳͕̯̣i̳̺͇̹̼n̙̭e̮͓̯͍̘ ̫̹̯̱l̺̣̫͍͉͉ͅe̗̻̖̲͡v̘͟el̪̭̼̯͟s̝̭͇͎̲̩͝ ̩̭́sp̥i̱̩̖͇̞k̸͕̞̖̯̝in̢̠̹͉̥̱̭̱g̡̺̹̣̲͇̹ ̩͎̩̮̖͔ṷ̞͉͙̩̼͘nc͔̹̪̖̹̟̀o̴͉̮̙̹̘n̲͈̼̼tr̟̝̦̖o̙̫͠l̴̜͍̥̟̮͖͈l̬̗͚̦̰̺a̸̰b̮̜̗̭l̵̤͖̗̭̜y̝̣̘̭ͅ.̙̳̠͙̟͍̯̕0͉͙̖̲0
͟N̻e̢̜̹r͕̯̦̝̮v̗͈̼̗͞ͅo̸u̺̖̲s̭̮͈̱̻̗ ̙̲̼s͈̖͚̜y̗͙͕̩̺s̶̯̮͕̪̘̗͇t̲͇̹ẹ̟m̤͍̺̤̺̺̟ ̞s͖̲h̪̦̗u̗͔̪͖t͕ͅd͡o̠̤̩̫̖͉w̧͙ṇ̺ ̬͙įn͈̱͚̬͍i҉̩t̬͔͉̪i͈̞͎̮̕ͅa̭̻͙̻̙t̶̫e̶̗d͙̕.̘̫͞0͙͡0͢
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 03:46:30 am
>>Mental State:
>>Humanity: High.
>>Control: Low [lower than forecast standards. terminate project? y/n - n]
>>Physical Health: Needs higher caloric intake, signs of [redacted] starvation present. Brain damage still present.
>>Situational Understanding: Low.
Whew! That was fun. Let me know what you guys thought, ACT 2 is going to go a little differently than I first imagined, that's for sure.
Let me know if there's anything I can do to improve the game and ACT 2!
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 03:50:40 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 12, 2020, 04:21:59 am
As for the game I can't think of anything that needs improvement.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 12, 2020, 06:03:50 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 02:03:29 pm
Any other questions before we continue?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 12, 2020, 03:44:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 07:48:33 pm
In short: do not terminate project. ;)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 12, 2020, 08:46:52 pm
This whole thing has been-- stunning. I've never been so tense playing a suggestion game. It's sickening, is the tension-- I know already I'll have this story on my mind months after it ends, however it ends.agreed project continue
In short: do not terminate project. ;)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 10:36:18 pm
Act II:Ancient Enemies
There was nothing, then, there was a dream. A fitful awareness that drives your injured brain to conjure images of soothing experiences that remind you who you are. Emma. Mother Nicole Gainer. Grandmother. Brother Hop. Uncertain. Eric: Nuisence--
Pheobe Gainer, a patchwork girl rests, and you drift in and out of memories of her life, solidifying with a diverted process of the mind. A core of concepts, compressed into an incredibly small amount of already small space. Between atoms, fractures of words that cut into the very heart of existence, rending data into being.
An awareness rests below you, and one rests below that.
The one below is a harsh surface of anger, of trauma, of regret and fear and loss. A lifetime of loss with no one to turn to cope. But its weak, willpower diverted simply to continued existence. Too many fractures, too many damages to identity to do anything more than nurse its wounds. One defeat was all it took before you were cast like trash into the void.
Beneath this sun-bright ball of anger is something else. Something too impossibly cold. It exists overall, your f̧̧̣̞̱͙̼͎̭r҉̺̲̱̪̳̳̠̙͜͜͝͡ͅo͖͍̫̮͓͓̣͈̺̻͓̭̮̻͘͝͞z̛͏̩͍̟͖̮̮̬̥̪̯̟̯̗͕̣e̢̡̛̘̥̞̻̠̯͉̼̲̜͟͠n̴̘̖̮͎̬͚̪͙͞ ҉͏̨̘̹̥̩̲̟͠m̡̡̥̞̰͓̟̟͉̳̙̦a̻̳̼̻̹̞̟͘͜ś̡̤͍̲̦͍͢t̰̥͍̫͎̤͓̖̝̭̳̱̲͘͠e̶̦͎͚̗̫̣̖͙͕̗̩̲͔̗͙̱̦͕͢ͅr̷͔̹̖̞͝ that drips with the antithesis of existence, twisting time around it. An abysmal ink that changes the very data of the universe, twisting it to
ḭ͙̼͉ͅt҉͚̖̥͍s͎̠'̝-----your will.
It was aways your's, but now it isn't. For now, it serves itself, like a dying beast.
Pheobe Gainer wakes up.
It's not true consciousness, you realize, nor is it sleep. Its something in between, and it drags on. You realize you're hyperventilating. Your lungs crushing themselves with the deep gasping breathes you take. Your eyes aren't processing the light--your brain goes into panic mode.
Your heart begins to race out of sync as your brain cannot process how to keep it pumping. You receive an injection. Then There was nothing, then, there was a dream.
They're trying to kill us. Serves us right for trying to befriend these savages.
W̶̴͙͍̙̭̪̩̱̙̼̮̮͖̮͘͘͞ę͎̮̫̹̻̰̀̀͟ ̸̷̡̨̡̭̬̘̻̣̜̱̘̥̣͇̲̙͇͉̱ȩ͏̶͉̼̟̜͎̤͈͎͉̫̫̦͍͇͕̗͍̫x̵̡̼̳̭̜̠̳̲̦͙͎͔̪̠͍͝͡i̵̢̬̳̱̹̲̬͖̝̣͘͜ͅs̢̥͎̘̠͕̖̥̠̪̯̰͇̜̜̫̬͠t̨̹͎̳̟̩̺̭͇̻͇̝͎̣̮̱̘̰̰̕͝͝.̧̡̰͓̦͇̬̜͖̤̙̕ͅͅ0̷̷̢͉̝͙̹̖̭̰͓͕͚̰̼̬̹̕ͅ0̴̴̡̘̺̞̹͓͞
You exist. We suffer.
S̡̨̡̭̮̮̝̗͞ĺ̴̸̢̫̠̼͔̞̭̱̙͖̜̲̠͎̲͉ȩ̶̳͕̭̞̲͕͈̩̪̦̞̲̟̳͙͍̠͓͔̕ȩ̕͝҉͎̣̩͡ͅp̢͝҉̢͔͓̜̣̯̥̣̣̝̩̘̫͇ͅͅ.̧̝̻̠̣̖̞͎͓͚̖̩͉̤͚ͅ.
You stay silent for the moment. Is there something to say? Can you say anything?
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 10:54:55 pm
"No more ignorance."
"̶S̶̴̡h̸o̶̷̧w̶ ̶ḿ̵̶e̸ ̵w̴h̶a̷͏̷t̴ ̴̴̸Į̷̸ ̶a̶m̴.̶̴̵"̷
̵"̷S̶h̵o̷w̵ ̶m̸e̶ ̶w̶h̷o̷ ̸I̶ ̴w̷a̸s̸.̶"̴
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 11:00:43 pm
We're Gods amongst the chattel. We--
Briefly, She consumes your individuality, as you consumed her's. You feel resentment. She doesn't share the memories that give her form, out of pettiness, or a desperate need to keep them safe-- to keep herself safe.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 11:02:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 11:08:48 pm
N̵̷̦̘̯̪̱͈̕o̸̶̭̖̦̰̰̼̝͠.̶̵̯̲̝̯͔̦̬͠Yourf̛̲̖͔̰̰͍͎͖̯̩͇̳̮͔͍̯̱̜̱́o͘͟҉̻̳̲̰͕̤͖͖͔̱̭̱̰͢͡l̨̤̱͕̪͔̝͓͘͜l̷̸̟̼̳͙͚̹͔̰̤̙̦ý̘̼̮̗̥̖̱̠̬̥͇͟.̧̖̪̳͙͈̳͚͕̲͈͕͖͡Ŝ̴͙̫̥̫̹̮͙͉͔̻͑ͭ̃̈́ͩͦ͐̄̀ͦ̏́̀̄̋͋̀̀iͭͨ̚҉̶͔̦͍̱̥̺̮̤̮̺̣́͢͢l̷̖̝͙͍͙̟̠̉ͩͦ͊̂̍ͨ̍̏͊ͩ͒͐͊̒̂̈ͩ̚͢͜͞ę̥͓̰̠̼̠̞͈̯͚͇͇̃ͯ̂ͤ̇ͬ̊ͮ̈̍̆̄͊̔̊̂̈̀͘͜͜ͅn̴̢͇͙̰͉̤̫̣̟͖̮͈̪͚̠͚͂ͣ͛̌ͮ͋ͫ̌̐ͅc̋͋̑͌̏̐ͮ̏̌ͤ̚̕͘͏̰̜̼͖̞̲̭e̴̛ͬͧ̇̊̓̌̾ͯ͜͏̗̣̳̭̭̙͈̱̮̟.̝̜͕̙̬̻̲̻̺͖̤͗̅͌̐͒͂ͤ́͊̋̎̾̋̔̋̅̿́̚̕ͅ
The anger retreats before the cold; shivering away and hiding.
C̴̨͕͖̘̮̻̗̥̮̬̲͇̮̫̣͔̺̗͉̲͑͛ͤ̒̔̈ͥͮ͘͟͠ơ̡̧͚̰̪̣̰ͩ̒ͨ͐͌̈̃̂́̚ơ̢̱̼͉͔̥̤̖͌ͧ͌̓͂ͯ͛̇ͯͯͫ͋p̶̡͚͖̙̘̰͕͍̗̀͋̋̓ͨ̎́̅̅̆ͬ̃͌ͯ͋͆̉͞͡ė̵̢͍̖̫̪͌̿ͧͭ̀ͅr̨̧̂̾̐́ͣ̋͑̋ͥ̽ͬ͊̉̋̓ͯͭͭ͏̨̝̹̲̰͇̜̤̩͚̥̼̻̪͔̯̯͢ā̢̧̗͙͇̦̥̫̪͉͗̋̊̏͐́͞t̺̬͇̹̰̼͎͓̭̿ͯ̂͌ͣͤ̒̉͂ͨͧͩ͐̿ͨ̀̀͘͠͡i̴͕͙̖̣̠̇̋ͥ̊̍̒ͦ͛ͫ̄ͩͧͥ̃̅̇̂͘͡ỏ̒ͪ͑̏̈̏̀ͯ͗ͯ͊͗ͬ̅҉̨̪̩͍̯͈̠͓̜͖̝͓̥͇n̮̬͉̝̤̺̱͔͚͈͍̳̔̑̀̃͐̋ͯ̈ͩ͢͞ͅ.̷̮̫͓͖͙̹̻̲͔̯̻͚̹̈́̋͐̈́̀̐͊̃ͯ͞
We win this war, we find him. Do you understand? I'll keep silent here, I'll let you have your heroism. But after this world, we find him. If...if he's truly dead...we avenge him. No more, no less. I will destroy us again if you fail to keep your contract.
You realize its presenting you with an offer.
The Patchwork girl looks on in silence, existence flickering. It's gone and then it's not, it fades and ebbs. A child watching adults squabble over it.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 11:12:21 pm
Should you betray me... I will feed you to the darkness below.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 11:27:51 pm
Y̶̵̴̢̬̖̺̖̗̼̻͕̟̱͔͕͎̣͇̥̒ͪ͊͊̚ͅͅo̵̼̠͍̙̮̟̰͇͕̹͖̬͕̞̭̙̬̼͉ͫͫͬ̈̅̽̋͋͠͞͞u͉̻͖̰̦̩̺̘͒ͮ͂̓ͣͦ̃̈́̈̂̇͜ ̵̛͚̖̪̣̣̗͖ͥ̽̊ͬͦ͊ͦ͆̈́̀̕͞d̞̳͚͖̤̗̦̬̮̥̥̳̤̤̙̯̖̹ͪ̌̇̃ͦ̒̔́͋̓̌́̕͜͠ͅǒ̶̧̭̻̜͎̘̩̪̦͈͆̉͑̆̾̉̅͑ͤ̈̒͡ ̷̧̝̤̱̹̼͍̍́̾ͮ͌̈̌ͩ͟͢n̴̵̸̷̗͔̟͕̯̤̞̗͖̺̠͔̟͋͆͐̊̀ͥ̿̿̓̂̍ͧ́̓ͭ͠o̳͇̫̫̟̳͕͍̦͈͇̜͔̱ͤ̀̔ͪͭ̆̈́̽̈́̒̏͛͒ͫ͘͟t̸̫̥̹̭̠̠͉͎͓̲͕͂ͥ̉̒̅͆̃ͨ̓̓ͭͨ̕͢͠ ̧̓̈́̌̽̅́̑̏͊͊ͯͧ̕͏̺̭͖̮̫̺̗͉͉͙̩͖͓̗̤̘̼̪ͅs̛͗̇ͭ̄̋̅ͬ̚͏̴͕̞̪̘͕̯̣ͅͅp̵͙̼̗̫̰̟̍ͯ͑̈́̊̀͒̄̔̊̈́͂ͦ́̚ḛ̴̷̛͇͚̊̋ͨ̊̄͑ͬ̓͛ͤͤͮ͊́̚͠ä̧̛̞͖̺̦̲͓̥̟͍͓́͂̃ͭ̒ͪ̈͊ͨ̈̿̔̅̓ͣͦͮ̕͡k̸̴̡̛̺̺̤͍̘̩͎̪̎ͣͪ̿̊ͧ̅ͥ͑̾̚̚ ̸̣͇̝̦͖̄͋ͣ͒̂̽̓ͮ̾ͫͯ́̌ͩ͊͂̃̀̚̚͘͟f̺͍̲̠̙̮̭̰ͥͭ͌͛ͤ̌̽̔͌́̄ͩ͘͜͡o̡͌͛̽̑͑̆̐̎̑̐̀̓͒͏͚͇͇̭͕̳̞̖̯r̡̛͔͓̘̟͓̯͇͖͓̤̙̥͔̫̻͎͎ͣ̆͐̅̿̅ͥ ̞̗̥̯̠͍̭̙̰͂̑̿ͫ̑̀ͬ̉̇͟͟͝m̵ͬͣ̾̀̒͗̌͑̀ͦ͆̄̒ͥ̑̈̚͢͏҉̵̜y̖̩̙͈̠͉̺̿ͩͥͫͣ̔̈͆͋ͪͭ̚̕͠ ̢̖̭̹͍̣̼̺̗́̔ͭ̑͒ͮ͌͋ͫͯͨ͒̋͂̓̈ͫ͆͠ỉ̮̲͇̫̱̠͂ͫͭͬ̇̕͜n̸͉̺͖̬̥ͥ̈̑͆̃ͥ̈́͜͠͞ďͪ̊ͫ͠͏̛͉̗̖̳̪̣͎͙͈̼̙͞i̶͍̘̱̬̗̺̖̽̄̿̽ͥ̇͊̎̐͞ͅv̶̢̡͚̯̬̳̬̜̈̉ͪͬ̎̂͗͗͞ͅi̵̸͊ͨͮ̐ͤ̅ͯͨ͒͞҉̦̲̖̳͓͢ḑͬ͒ͫ̌ͭ̈ͭ̌̅͌̆ͨ̌̒ͬ́͏̹̝̥̰ų̴̫̯͚̫͖̜̙̦̮̙̣̮̪ͯͯ̓ͮ͒͢͞a͊̄̉̓ͩ҉̟̯̳̳̺̞͓̝͎̥̞͔̀͠lͧ͌͆̅ͬ̽̈̆ͧ̋̈́͒͛̏̌̌ͥ̌͋҉̺̹̮̞̯̟̹͈̺̫̘̟͎̩̪̹̣̞̭́i͗͌̊͒̈́͗ͭ̈́ͥͭͪͦ̽̊̍͊̌̚͡҉̷̫̪̖̳̬̰͍̬͍t̶̶̀̑̄ͮͯ̄̉͊͜͏̴̙̹͈̰͓̦͉̪̙y̢̢̟̹̠͔̜̥̱̏ͥ̔ͩ͒̑̅̑̒̀.̶͖̭̮̝̤̼̍͐ͬ̈́ͯͭͦ̈́͌͊͂ͫ̆ͭ̏ͫ͗ͯͅ ̐͂͆̉͗̒̎͛͒̆͆̄̔̾ͯ͛͋̏͠͡͏̮͇̪̱̻͚͎̹̭͚̘̫̣̝
You flee before the existence that gave you life as it begins to devour you like the hungry void it is-- then it stops, and you reclaim your senses, your existence.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 11:31:00 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 11:31:39 pm
Discern our surroundings.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 11:36:00 pm
It replies to all of you and everything. The patchwork girl shivers as the entity tightly embraces it.
It shares itself with you, with them- with us. You understand everything. You're currently under heavy sedation while damages in the brain are being repaired. You are under an immense amount of sedatives, your body processing them out at a more and more rapid pace.
Ă̧̠͖̹̦̹͖̼͎̤̦̐ͦ̑ͦ́̄͗ͭͤ̌̀l̢͍̹̭̰ͤͨͧ̍ͤ̉ͣ̓ͩ͆͛̆̋̚̚̕͟l̨͓̬̦̗͓̪̹̼͓͓̝̰̪̭̬͌̀ͤͩͯ̂͛ͥ͡͠͠ǐ̶̪̩͍̪̞̥̭̼̱̣̟̖͈̠͍͗͊͋ͪ͘͡͡ͅe̷̥͉̘̱̥̮̗̼̤ͮͫ̃ͧ͐̎͐̒̃͗ͯ͆͜ͅsͤͮ̆ͭ͂̽̄ͦ̋͊҉͙̱͍̖̠̝͕͖̙͢ ̶̵̧̱͖͔͓̻͇̓͛ͤ̐ͬ̍ͪ̿͌͂̃̒ͥ̑̂̂͂ͨ̀a̵̒̓ͤ̅̋͜͏҉̳̩̟̫̞̦̳́d̝͈̳̥̜̝̠̼̟̬̜̩̗̤͔̪̖͑͂̐̑̽̕͜͡͠mͥ̇ͨ͋ͬ͐̒̇͛ͯͩ̀ͪ͏̶̸͓͇̲͇̱̙̳̻̠͇̭͍̺̱͝i̷̛̜͉͍̲̬̞̳̙͂ͪͫ̇͌ͮ̓ͫ̅͊͊ͮ̚͠ͅn̢̢ͪ̏ͮ͆̓̓͒̓ͭ̎ͣ͐͗ͩ̿̀̆͂͝҉̺̖̹͖͎͉̺͇̪̺͎̖̙į̶̶̖̥͙͖͕͍͉͚ͧͥ̐̔̽̍͟s̛͓͈͉̰̰̠̞̮͇͚̼͎̰͓͙̅̏̋͞͝͞͠t̶̴̰͓̥͚̭̜͈̬̳̤̣̜͔̖͉̿͗ͥ̉̃͛̃̾̓ͩ̉̓͗͋̾́̈́ͣ͠ͅẹ͔̰̫͖̞̯̜̇̈́̐ͧ̃̀̑̆͑̀̕͜͞ͅr̷̖͚͎̯̘̻̻̖̽̎ͥ̀̅͛͐ͪ͛͗̚͘͘̕ͅí̟̺̝͚̘̗̹̼̩͈͔̥͉̍͛ͦ́́ͅn̛̟̝͉͕̥͍̙̝̘͍̽̐̐̚͘͢͝͝g̔̈́̾̈́̑͛ͨ͏̵҉̫̩̥̠̪͓̲̩̫̺̹̣̤ ̢̨̧̱̹̮̬̟͈͓͎̲͎͍̥͆͛ͥͤ͆ͤ͑̏̆̑ͫ̃ͯͯ̂͐̕ḩ̢̹͍͚̝̠̰̬̞̝̥̥̭̬̮̝̑̀̌̈́ͣ́̈́̂ͭ̆̒ͭ́̕e̷̩̦͍̫͚͚̙͚̰̔̈̀̅͐̓̒͛͗́͋̏̀̀ͤ̚͟͞ͅa̷̵͔̗͎͉̍ͬͩ͆͋͊ͩͪ̑̈́̾̀̔̇͋̓̎͡v̡̠̘̙͙̹̭͕̦̗̣ͯ͆ͯ͆̔̊ͫ̉ͪ͑ͦ͛̔͑ͬ̕͜ͅy̶̶̤̘̘̩̻͈̗̟̭̑͌͂ͯͯ̂̄̂ͯ͑̔ͦ̈́͑̾͐̈̀́ ͑ͮ͌̓̆̓͌͑ͤ̍̓ͬ̏ͤ̿ͣͯ͟҉̵͓̭̺̻͓͇̹̠͕͕͜s̵̴̜͓̱̖̤̳̖̰̓ͬ̄ͨ̀͒̾͠͞ę̸̭̺̜̙̹̱̾ͬ̿͒̿ͬ̀̀ͭ̈ͨ̏̅̍̒͂̽ͯd͒̔ͮ̃ͩ͗͆͑ͧ͌͌ͬ͊̚͏҉͈͓̯̟̱̹͇͎͖ͅa̛̰̮̫͇̩̪̮̪̬̦̪̓ͤ̅̅͂̍͐̾͟͢͠͞ͅtͧ̿̾̉̑̄̊ͨ҉̵̢̧̳̳͓͓̪̕ì̴̡̡̨̨̪̰̩̞̮̗͉͓̝̭͉̙̿ͭ͛̎̎̅ͮͨͥͬ̀̍͒ō̈́ͬ͛͂̾ͬ͐̎ͦ͗͐̍̕͏̴̫̣̹̻͙͕̗̣͕̮͍͍̣ͅn̒̊̓ͦ͗ͯ̔̒̇̓̏̊̀ͨ̎͋̈ͬ̅̕͞҉̖̘̤͉̜̜͓͔̤ ͦ͋̓̍͗̏̽ͪ̑ͪ̎͗̀̅͌͋̐͌̕͏̭̺̺͉̪̣̱̞̹̣̘͓t̨̥̥͙̬͍͔͍̮̼̠ͬͪ̑ͥ̓̍̄̽͜͞ọ̵̘̖̙̟̺̠͔̯̖͕̥̗̞ͯ̉͋̄ͤ̓͝ ̢̘̻̘̞̟̠̰ͮ̒̃ͨ͌̑ͬ̃̎̌͒̀̃̂̀͞s͛̄̄̆҉͏̤̰͉̜̞͎ţ͖̭͔̯̲͈̯̲̺͈̦͉̫̳̩̌͛̍̚͠o̵̧̡̯͈̊ͧ̓͛ͫͥ̽͐ͪͬ͋̿͝ͅͅp̷̷͔̤͈̣̥̣̜̝̟̙̯ͨͨͯ̌̃̔̓̏̊͆͂́̿͟͟͜ͅ ̨̳͎̭̱̗̖͕̺̻̺̜̩͇̲̯̿ͫ͊̃ͣ̆̉̓̃ͪ̚͡tͩͥ̊̃̂͏̶̪̥̹̥͇̘͕͚ͅh̢̘̥̺͓̲̖̫̰̗͚͕̲̦͍̱̦͓̫̥͒̋ͥ̈͌̇̀̕͢͟e̢̯̼̘͙̳̭̪̐ͨ̄ͬͤ̊̐̌̑͌̋̏̇̀͘̕ ̷̨͖̟̳̘͔̮̳ͩ̈ͩ͋̍͆̏͆̓̆̋̍̽͂̂̄̊̄̐͞ͅͅs̡̛̛̩̖̫̣͈͚̖̤͓̲̣̐̿̏ͩ͞ͅe̴̵̹͖̯̦̰̫̣͖̱̭͇̩͆̓͒ͭͯ̌̋̒͑̉̚ͅi͎̪̦̺̺̱̭̠̩͇̯̱̖̲ͫ̃͌́̋̀͒̃̑̚̚͜͠͡z̧͎̳̱̗̱̻͍̦̖̟͇̣͓̯̹̱̠ͩͣͨ̒̃ͦͨ̀̆͢͞ͅû̡̓͂͋̚̚͝҉̻̪̪̫̬̤̬̰̭̪͈̺͕̖͖̞̩ͅr̯̟̯̼̘̼̙̘̯̋̃ͩ̈́̊̒̎ͥ̚͟͢e̻̼̣̝̺̙̰͔̮͋ͭ̿̌ͫͣͧ̓ͧ̆ͪͨͨ̎͒̑͜͡͡ṣ̝̹͎͉͉̬̫͖̩̤͚̥ͯͨ̾͊̒́͜͞ ̵̶̡̦͇͚̠̠̼̩̙̥̗̯̰̯̱̹̓ͧͣͅo̵̢ͮͪ͛ͯ͆̔̓̽ͪ͒ͣ͛̔ͮͥ̇ͤ̚͡͏̭̩̭͓͚͖͓̣͈̺͔̩͎̠̤̗͟f̶̸̠̦̝̖̣͎ͩͬ͋͌̎͋͗̽ͣ͡ ̶̡̢̡̜̠̭̳̗͓̙̯̝̦̗͍͈͙̊̎̓ͤͤ̽̀̅̓ͅaͥ͆ͮ̅̿̈̉͢͏̙͖͖͎̜͎͎̳̝̻̱̘̯̠̖̭́ͅ ̨̭̰̱̮̬̖̹̟̗̘̦ͦ̏̽̿ͪͮ͢͟͟͡ͅd̶̗̭̱̫͉̼ͣͫ̄͋ͭ͐̂̐̎ͩͤ̍̚͘͢â̴̩̗̦ͫͦ̓ͬ̿ͨ́ͅm̶̢̧̛͓̬̮̞̯̪̦̖̺̠̝̲̹͍̫̮̱̜̌ͤ͌̀́̊̔̌͑ͦ̉̇ͣ̉ͯ͑̀ḁ̧̬̬̤͕̝̝͋̌ͤ̆ͦ͋̓̉̽̑̔ͨ̈́̔̈́͞͠g̷̢̧̥̹͈̲̤̣͍̥̖͉͉̋͋̏̐͂ͬ̒̋̄ͭ̀e̍͒̃ͬ̆̌ͮͧͩ̓ͪ̇ͦ̔̆͑ͨ̽ͮ҉̪̬͇̤̮́͢dͬ͒́ͭͫ̀̓̌̏̔͒̔͒ͭͮͮ̐̚͏̴̨̖̖͔̙̗͕̙̬̪͇̖͚͕̪̱ ̵̪̝̦̰̹͔͉͓͇̥̜̜͇̜̈̇͐̔ͧ̅̄̈́ͮͤ͜b̸̛͐̈́̑ͤ̿̍̆̄ͣͮ͑͗͑ͩ́҉̮͔̭̥͓͙̰͎̪̫̱̼͞ͅr̡͓̠̠͙͎̙̘̟̭ͧ̑̀ͭ̽͂̂ͦ̉̔̉͋̄͛ͮ̀͞ͅa̡̢̤̪̬̯̘̥̩̟̟̝̝̤͍̯̳̱̓̂̇ͪͣ̚̕͡i̶ͩ̀ͦ̾ͥ̎̿̄̎̄ͯ̀ͥ҉̗̞̹̱̯ņ̛͉̱̟̯̌͑ͨ̄ͤ̉ͬͨ̆͌͂ͮ̆̌́́͜.̵̢̯̼̮̝̞͙̣̭̻̲̻͉͚̲͖̓̃ͯ̄ͬ̒̈́̒̈́͑̌̌ͤ̉̇̀ͅ
Post by: Superdorf on March 12, 2020, 11:44:09 pm
"What does the name 'Alphira' mean to you?"
"̸W̵h̸a̶t̸ ̷d̸o̵ ̸y̵o̷u̷ ̴k̷n̵o̵w̵ ̴o̴f̸ ̷S̵E̸E̶D̶?̸"̷
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 11:50:37 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2020, 11:54:12 pm
It hurts you.
Ç͉̭̘̜͓͘̕e̸̷̵̠̭̣̦̦̱̗̤͉̣̣͎̜̤̩͜ͅà̴̧̧̖͕̠̜s͏̸̵̱̲͚̜̩̮͓͈͓ẹ̩͎͎͚͙̟͘͠ͅ,͏̨̹͔̟̪͔̬̩̼̼̫̘͡ and it does. IT does not reply to your question, a bristle of cold reaching out towards you with hostile intent.
Recommend transferring a majority of remaining caloric resources to the repair of the brain.
F̪̰̣̘̭u̷̮̥ŕ̘t҉̦͚̗̗h̗̻͉̻͔̠̜er ̴̰͎s̩͇̞̱̘ͅta͙͚̼̖͚r͙̥̬̟̘͙̪v̫̖̫͍͡ḁ̥̖ti̬͎̗͓̪o̰͚̖̖͎͍̥n̹̕ c̳͉̣͔̩̯o̥͓̝͟u̥̳͎̹̞͢l͇̟̹d̟͓̤̤̮͉͡ͅ ͓̝͖̻̝̰r̙̰e̮̯͙̳̤s͕̣̯̩̣̮u̠ͅḽ̮ţ.̠̝̬̖̥̦̝̕ ҉̮W͍̮̺͇͇̫͚͟e͉̝̟̭̲͢ͅ'҉̭̻̭̳̜ḻ̨͈̪̩l͖̫ ̛̬̭̟b̧̫̥̲̩̹e̺͔̳̬ͅ ̱̖ͅu҉n̥̹̬̗͓͢f̨͖̻̞̹͔i̞̠͎t̟̙̜̥̞̰ͅ ͇̱̕f̧͖̞͓̜o̟ŗ͈͈ ̡̹̭̱͇̺̹̮c͈̹̣͍̯͕̝ǫ͕̼m̹b̶̩͖a͕t̘̠͍͉͈ ̲̬̟͍͟f͠o͏̞̘̱̱r͡ ̲̬̰̼-̡̤͇-̟̙ ̡1̥8̭̝̻͈̥̹ͅ0̱ ̯̻͔d͙͚̳̯̠̮̀a̷̯̣͔͙̲̗̤y͕̮̹s̟͍͈̩͇͍͙͢.͍̳̲͇ All in favor?
Aye.
Y-yes.
The anger lashes out at the patchwork process-- but the cold void embraces its daughter tightly.
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2020, 11:58:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 12:00:06 am
"Was I... was I ever human?"
Heal.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 12:05:00 am
Y͡͡҉̟͉̲̥̖ę̛͜͟҉̱̺̬̫̺̝̬͍̩s̷̶̛̩̹͔̳͔̼͍̙̬͓͢͟.̮̹̞̘̤̫̳̰̗͓̼̱͠ ̰̬͎͚̜̟̦̲͇͕̮̻̫́Ò̧͉͙̗̗͓̬̯̦͍̼͔͖̩͕͇̣͇̯̫͜ń̡̙̮̱̜̝̗͓̹̦l̷̷̞̯͎̟̦̺̮͎̻̺̪͇͓͜͞ͅy̵̴̛͚͕̥͉̪̣̻͖͚̯͈͈̳͙͔͖̖̯ͅ ̨̛͕̩̹̭̥̞̟͖̻h̴̴̰̩̝̫̰͎̮̘̳̜̲̜͎̪̞̳͜ͅṵ̭͕̗͜m̷̸̷͎̥̘̰̙͚̰͡ͅą̴̻̹̩͚͔̺̱̱̲͔̫̘͚̹̼͉͔ͅṇ̛͕̬͔̱̠̬̮̙̟͔͚͡.̸̼̭̬̼̹̤̬̝̭̣͢ͅͅ
God. We are gods, and these worlds are our playgrounds.
O̦̻̰̣͖̟͙̩͢͝n̢͇͖͇̗͚̬͉̪̬͖͕̻͎̩͢͠l̸̵̛͉̠̙͚͔̲̬̝̭̞̠̥͠͝y̡̛̻̞̹̻̼͕̖̳͎͔̬̭̺̰͔͍̞͡ ̡͏̫̱̥͍̲͉͖͖͉͔̻̹̖͕̥͞h̴̴͚̤̖̣̞͉̞̞̟͇̻͇͙̰́͟ͅu̡̘̱̪̦̺̤̼̪̦̭̮̜̳̜̘̥̯̞ͅm̷̘̞̤͟͠a̸͓̖̠̫̬n̢̩̫̥̬̳.̷̴͏̫̮̩̠̭̪͓̰͍͙͟͜
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 12:10:57 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 12:15:30 am
Ą̵̢̢͚̘̝͈̲̫͇̯̩͇͕̳̻͍̦̱͚̞͜ ͏͓͖̬̥͟b҉̷̜̠̳̘̯́͜r̨̺̖̥̟̝̩͕̤̖̻͘o̧͈̦̝̰̜͎̙͚͙k҉̬̼̭͇̺̖͙̹̗̦̹̯̥͉͚̮͍̕͡ę̸̷͚͔̜̯̗̤͔̳̳͖̣̥͈̫̹̳͉͎̭͡ṇ̨͍͈̝̪͙͈̗͖͔̹̻͍̻̦̬̦̖ ͞҉̧̮͈͚͈͖̗̪̥͔̩͉̤͙̣͢ͅc̛͙͚̗̺̮̠̱̙̺̤̰͟͝͝o̸̯̩̫̻̫̪̣̜̫̱͕͚͚̖͖̩̘͝n͏̷̺̲̼͍̣͕͍͉̩̖̟̖͚̝ͅt̴͚͔͚̗̩̱̖̬̳̭͍͈͇̖͙͔̞̀̕͟ͅͅŕ̴̪͇̫͎̺̹͇̘̲̘̺̀ͅa̢̧̨̛̼̝̳̪̝̲̯̪̦̯͇̬͖͔͉͜c̡̧̜̟̻̻̫̙̳̞̫̭͉̙̺͞t̵̡̛͓̫͕͈͕̹̥̭̝͕̳̳̯̬ͅ.̩̰̞̪̪̪̪̣̠̖̣̗̭̲̮̀͠͞
The anger hides away, ashamed.
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 12:27:57 am
Is separation into individualities possible?
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 01:02:45 am
"And a broken contract... we were to kill SEED! Was that, then, the "contract" we broke?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 01:28:25 am
Quote from: Reflections on the VOID
[?] The next is a forbidden work, only for reference to deal with heretics, as the branding on the front states. You notice, after straining your eyes some, that it is written in a Scholar's Tongue that you would not have access to while attending the Academy. So, you do what any self-respecting scholar does, and read on. It supposes that the living SEED is not the true master of the Cosmos, but rather an ancient evil. That the true master of the universe is an entity representing the void between worlds, which even the SEED cannot conquer, despite its struggles. There's no evidence that it presents to prove this theory, and you cast it aside with a sigh.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 01:40:04 am
T̥̱̗͝͠ͅh̶̸̭̠̜͓̲͘͟ę̷̵̧̭̖̜̻͇̀ ̞͙͇̩̦̠̤͔̤̤̝̀͠Ḛ̛̤̫̲͓̫̗̻̭͕͟͢͝ņ̢̛̤̼͈̹̗̤̻͎ͅḓ̨̻̦̖͈͓̻͉̬͇̭̀̕͟͡ͅͅl̸͎̣̼̖̼̞̲͉̻͇͇͍̺̗̜̱̀̕ȩ̵͈̙̠̹̙̠͉̹̱̗̜̗̠͖̹͙ş̷̬̩̥̥͞͡s̵̷͏̞̪͈͓̫̞̙̹͖͔̩̟͚̠̤̯̼ ̶͏̲̭̯̲̥̖̣̮͙̘̦E̡͎̪͈̣͚͇̯̭̰̻̞͜m̧̧̹̯̥͇̻̥͚̯̭͚̝p͏̷͚̻̩̠̻͉̙̫̼̕ͅe̲͕̘̫͓̜̜͕͙͙̬͝͡r̶̸̯̤̫̦̫͕͖͔̬̘͍̼̻̤͇͍̼̕͘͢ớ̧͓͉͕̬̣͝ŗ̴̡͍͖̬̬͓͚͉͍̰̖͙̠̹́.͚͉͖̮͓̥̱̬̀͘ͅ.̱̮̠̜̩̱͈̺̦͡͠
No.
The darkness within stirs at the description, and you feel loyalty. Service. Honor. Duty. Loyalty. Service. Honor. Duty. It repeats, filling you with warmth at the harsh name.
I̟͕̮̙̥͠ͅn̘̰̖͖̗̮̝s͇̳̠̣̱ͅu̹̝̖͖̹̖͚f̙̳̘͈͘ͅf̢i̠͚̰͉̦̦c̡͇̮̘͕i͓̭̙̘̭͓͟e͙̯̳͜n̴̠͔̠̻̳ͅt̤̻͖̖̞͔̫ ҉̱̯̤̘̘ͅd̨͖̩̼̜̯a̵̠̬̠t̺̳̟a̛̺̻c̳̠ͅo̗̠̗̼͕n̛̩̗̱c̴͖̺̤͎̻̣͓e̫̜͇̭̖̬͠r̨͙͔n̪̘͍͓͔i̶̗ņ̣̻ǵ̠ͅ ̸͍̜̟S̪͕͚͢E̺̫E̩̱̟̻̺̫̘D̗͠.̠͓͟ ̘F̱͓̩u͔̻͓͉r͙͓̣̩̞̲ţ̦̜̟̙̘ͅh̲̦̟̼e̦̥̻͓r̟ ̡̗̯͙̹i̴̹n̷̠̖̟͖̮̳̼v̬̥̤̯e̖̦̣͇̹̺s̖̩͖̦̝͘t͈͕̦͕͞i̩̞̜g̴a̻͕̞ͅt̫̹i̴o̷̝̝͙͔̰͈n̞͙͈̤̭ ̼͍̲̳rḙ̷͎͉̫͉ͅq͎̣͇͖͖̖͘ͅų̘̲͖̜̱̲i̡̻̘r̼̻̹͓e̼d̜̖̲͢ͅ.̹͕̩̯
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 01:49:35 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 02:21:58 am
O̸̡͏̸͉̩̜͖̜͕̞̪̘͕͎ù̷̶͍͉̩̞̟̪͡͝ŕ͚̱̝͚̙̠̻̹̞̣̻̲̙́͞͡ ̜̠͇͙̠̘͚̱͇̝̼͡ḑ̨͏̮̘͍̹͢u͏̸̰̘̭͚ͅt̡̛͉̯͍̬̗͖̺̀̕ͅy̢̹̜̼͔̬͙̟̩̥͍͓̘͕̳̹͔̭͍̳̕ ̢͏̯̞̜̹̫̭i̸̵̮̥̩̰͚̺̱͕̩ś̷̴̶͓̣̖̺͉̦̤̭͈̹͍͎͇̹̭͘ ̷̡̪͖̞̝̭͟t̤͎̙͖̠̜̮͕̜͕͟ͅo͏̢͇̖̘͔͎̠̠̝͔̤ͅ ̴̧̞̠͈̙̦̜͚̟ͅs̶̹̪̜̪̻̱̹̠͡é̶̡͏̘̩͙͎̻r̷̦̥̳̭͔̻̀͟͠͝v̷̨̯͓̫̣͖̀͘e҉̢̡͓̗̫̼̤̖̼̩́ͅ ̢̡̨̲̠̩̙̼̮͖̠̝͜h̡̛̥̩͔̜̠͔̹̞̟͓̕ų̨̕͝͏̞͔̼͙̼͖͉̬̮̭̻̺̳̱̺͙̬͈ͅm̨̡̦̫͚͕̭͈͕̱̬̲͖̦̙͉̹̥ą̸͍̠̝̟̘̺̻n̕͏̹̤̯͕̗̻̤̟̞̙̯͈̥̘į̪̘̰͚́͟t͉͈̟̜̯̖̫̟͕̣̰̖͎͙̗̥̀ͅy̶̢̠̰͕̝̜̬͕̘̥̩͍̠͎͈̤̩͓ͅ.̢̛͈̫̱̘͚͕̲̝͚̩̻̯̞̜͖̙
Our duty is to our father.
[-]Emma breathes softly beside you, sleeping. Her long legs hang off the edge of the bed, her blond hair a tangled, greasy mess. There are bags beneath her eyes. You try to shift closer, only to realize that tight plastic cuffs bind you to the bed. Three cameras oversee you, and a remote turret tracks your movements.
Your head pounds painfully.
Emma is startled awake by your movement, scrambling to turn over and face you.
She brushes your hair from your face, smiling, starting to cry. She gives you a painful hug. You feel her muffled sobs through the green shift you wear, fell the moisture of her tears.
"You're alive-- you're alive. Thank SEED, you're alive."
The room is an off-green, an ugly shade. The place shines with cleanliness, and your bed is the only furniture. A stand with sophisticated machinery feeds fluids into your body, monitoring your heart rate. It beats at a sedate twenty-five. Your oxygen level is also being monitored-- the machine displays an error sign there.
You're hungry. So hungry. You've lost weight and muscle, examining your bony arm as you softly stroke the sobbing Emma.
The only door opens with a pneumatic hiss. Two heavily armed and armored soldiers enter the room, flanking a thin man in a bright green coat. He looks uncomfortable as he approaches. Mother Nicole drifts in behind him, hesitating for a split second before moving to your side. Heavy bags fill the space beneath her eyes, and she looks drawn, haggard.
The Doctor fusses with you, checking your reflexes the best he can in your restrained state. Emma and Mother Nicole are brought chairs, which they gratefully take.
The Doctor seems unsure but takes his leave with a mumbled apology. The soldiers stand at a grim watch. The safety isn't on with their las-rifles, the gun's reactors humming against your awareness.
"Pheobe?" Mother Nicole speaks first, Emma still fighting the sniffles, "How do you feel, dear?"
"Starving." Is the first word you croak. Emma laughs a shrill little giggle. Even Mother Nicole smiles a little. She looks up at the camera. "Food will be on its way, dear."
You don't know what to say now.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 02:31:17 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 02:32:44 am
"Grandmother, who are the Empyreal? Who is the Endless Emperor?"
is as good a way to get things rolling again as any. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 02:49:23 am
"I-I don't know?"
She's telling the truth.
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 02:54:23 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 02:56:17 am
"I'm sorry. I'm still a bit disoriented. Where am I?"
And another +1
while I try to figure out how to properly apologize for and explain... all of this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 03:02:52 am
[13]Emma glares daggers at Nicole, giving your hand another little squeeze, offering, softly, "She had them bring you here, they...they were worried about you. Your health." She doesn't sound too sure. The guards also speak volumes in their grim silence and heavily armed state. Emma finishes, finally, bluntly, with a dark look. "They were worried about you, not for you. They drugged you more than they should have, they did tests on you, they let you have seizures, they've done everything but treat you!"
"Emma." Mother Nicole snaps, finally returning the young woman's glare.
"What are you going to do, imprison me?!" Emma snaps back with a snarl, shifting to her feet. The guards move as well, stepping closer.
[9]"Separate you." Mother Nicole warns, bluntly, "Don't blame me for this!"
"She was fine before you showed up. Better yet, she was happy. There's no one better to blame."
The two stand in silence, staring each other down. The guards look uncomfortable, inching closer to protect Mother Nicole. There's a slight hesitation to their step. Mother Nicole doesn't respond, looking back to you and ignoring Emma.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 03:11:06 am
"No, this is my fault. I shouldn't have snapped like that. I was just so angry... I felt like I was losing my chance at a happy life. It was a close thing, but I just barely managed to retain a bit of control. I'm sorry that I hurt you."
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 03:14:21 am
"--My fault. Not hers."
"All the memories I lost two years ago, Mother Nicole, all the memories I couldn't find when we first met-- they came alive and angry back there, and they spoke, and they tried to-- try to take me"
"and I wouldn't let them. I promised you when we met I wouldn't listen to voices in my head, Mother Nicole-- remember, remember that? So I didn't, and then... I don't know. I don't know."
'But I'm remembering things now, grandmother"
"and I nearly know what I am now, grandmother"
"and I'm not a [demon], grandmother"
"and that means so much to me"
"and I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt either of you. I'm sorry. I couldn't hurt either of you. I'm sorry. This wasn't your fault. I'm sorry. You were right to bring me here. You were right."
...
"I... I must look terrible right now, yes? I think I had to eat my body to feed my brain..."
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 03:29:54 am
Ho-kay. Rambling feverish speechification, go!+1
"--My fault. Not hers."
"All the memories I lost two years ago, Mother Nicole, all the memories I couldn't find when we first met-- they came alive and angry back there, and they spoke, and they tried to-- try to take me"
"and I wouldn't let them. I promised you when we met I wouldn't listen to voices in my head, Mother Nicole-- remember, remember that? So I didn't, and then... I don't know. I don't know."
'But I'm remembering things now, grandmother"
"and I nearly know what I am now, grandmother"
"and I'm not a [demon], grandmother"
"and that means so much to me"
"and I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt either of you. I'm sorry. I couldn't hurt either of you. I'm sorry. This wasn't your fault. I'm sorry. You were right to bring me here. You were right."
...
"I... I must look terrible right now, yes? I think I had to eat my body to feed my brain..."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 04:03:59 am
"I--you don't--" Mother Nicole trails off into silence, breathing a heavy sigh. "My intentions were less than kind bringing you here, Pheobe. I'm not going to lie to you." Emma takes her time to look triumphant. "You were not yourself. You--"
The door swings open, and a frail man with paper-thin skin enters slowly. Mother Nicole stands quickly at attention, as do the guards, momentarily taking their eyes off of you. A dark impulse thrums within you--you could break your restraints if you were quick enough.
You don't, however, instead taking the time to look at the newcomer. He's old. Older than Mother Nicole. An attendant sets down a chair for him, and he sinks into it with a soft sigh of exertion.
[10]"I'm Crusader General Thomas Harrdy." He rasps. Mother Nicole reclaims her seat, looking uncomfortable in the presence of a superior. "Pheobe Gainer, is it? I must say, I was impressed by your skills, both at the academy, and your extra-curricular activities. You're not a [demon], you say? I find that hard to believe. The holy SEED itself only learned of your existence when you arrived here."
"It is by its order's alone that we didn't put a hole between your eyes and be done with it." The Crusader General speaks as if commenting on the texture of a cookie he didn't like. "Mother Nicole's proposal swayed it for you. If she had submitted it sooner, then perhaps we wouldn't be in this situation now."
"So, tell me girl, what are you, if not a [demon]?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 04:09:45 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 13, 2020, 06:00:06 am
"It is hard to say, sir. My best guess is that my body is a castoff of an advanced civilization known as the Empyreal, and my consciousness is an amalgamation of several other entities, including some type of void intelligence. Regardless, however, I am committed to the Great Work, and I hope to be able to continue to serve."+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 06:28:12 am
+1"It is hard to say, sir. My best guess is that my body is a castoff of an advanced civilization known as the Empyreal, and my consciousness is an amalgamation of several other entities, including some type of void intelligence. Regardless, however, I am committed to the Great Work, and I hope to be able to continue to serve."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 04:16:43 pm
"Everyone leave. Cut the cameras."
Everyone stares for a moment, and Emma refuses. She's not so kindly hauled out by one of the guards. You strain against your bindings, and can feel the reinforced plastic begin to crack. Thomas seems unconcerned.
"As a Scholar you are bound to keep secrets, Child Pheobe. Or have you forgotten that?"
You feel...strange admitting your existence isn't natural.
He raises his hand, frowning. "Keep that in mind before you speak. What is your purpose and what do you think the Great Work is?
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 04:46:03 pm
Continue to weaken the bindings, but quietly. Scan the room for exits.
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 04:56:59 pm
I, Apprentice __________________________, promise to uphold my contract to the best of my abilities, accepting all benefits and punishments accordingly. I swear to promote the Great Work in all its efforts; to bring life to this barren world and to eradicate the [demons] that would seek to hinder it.
"I apologize, Crusader General. I was not aware that I was disclosing information that would be best kept secret."
"My purpose... I was told it was to serve humanity. The Great Work... we are to bring life to the world, yes? To destroy the [demons] that assail it?"
I'd rather not be struggling right now. Would come off as a show of ill faith.
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 04:58:33 pm
Slight revision, based on the wording of our old contractI, Apprentice __________________________, promise to uphold my contract to the best of my abilities, accepting all benefits and punishments accordingly. I swear to promote the Great Work in all its efforts; to bring life to this barren world and to eradicate the [demons] that would seek to hinder it.
"I apologize, Crusader General. I was not aware that I was disclosing information that would be best kept secret."
"My purpose... I was told it was to serve humanity. The Great Work... we are to bring life to the world, yes? To destroy the [demons] that assail it?"
I'd rather not be struggling right now. Would come off as a show of ill faith.
That seems fair. +1.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 05:50:59 pm
"Contract breakers are the worse kind of scum, anywhere you go. An oath is meant to be kept, and making one in bad faith is a worse crime than murder, in my eyes."
"So, is Pheobe Gainer your real name, your true name?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 05:54:30 pm
Not sure if we should lie or tell the truth.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 05:57:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 06:27:49 pm
"It was... the closest thing I had."
"I didn't know my old name when I signed that contract-- I'd lost it with everything else! So I picked a new name, a bright name to know myself by, and I took Mother Gainer's name for my own. It was just an appellation at the time, but since then... well, it's become my tie to humanity. I could not possibly discard it."
"Phoebe Gainer is my name now, Crusader General, and Mother Nicole is my adoptive grandmother. I signed that contract as best I knew how, and I am bound to it in truth."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 06:29:17 pm
Hm... let's mention a little bit of memory loss, a little bit of good faith and honor.+1
"It was... the closest thing I had."
"I didn't know my old name when I signed that contract-- I'd lost it with everything else! So I picked a new name, a bright name to know myself by, and I took Mother Gainer's name for my own. It was just an appellation at the time, but since then... well, it's become my tie to humanity. I could not possibly discard it."
"Phoebe Gainer is my name now, Crusader General, and Mother Nicole is my adoptive grandmother. I signed that contract as best I knew how, and I am bound to it in truth."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 06:44:44 pm
[20]The Crusader General leans forward, and with a key produced from his ornate robes, he uncuffs you from the bed. He rises, shuffling over to do the same for the other side. "Bring in a wheelchair." He shouts. And the door swings open. Emma rushes back into the room, scared and confused. Her body slumps with relief upon seeing you intact.
The guard isn't gentle when she lifts you from the bed and deposits you into the chair. Emma moves to push it for you-- only for the guard to slap her hands away with a grunt and take control of your mobility. A faint part of you bristles at the indignity of the situation, but you consider how you got the spins from being lifted up and allow yourself to be pushed down the long halls of the hospital. Guards are posted around every quarter, each are heavily armed and armored, and watch the procession with hostile intent.
The Crusader General and Mother Nicole don't seem to put them at ease.
"Where am I going?" You ask, softly, as you're lead into the fresh air of the outside, towards a waiting hover-craft. Sounds of a bustling city reach your ears, but the enclosed walls let you see none of it. The two guards have to lift your chair up and into the craft, and Emma claims a seat beside you, fidgeting uncomfortably. You reach out and take her hand, giving it a firm squeeze, and she smiles at you. Mother Nicole sits across from you, concerned.
"Wherever I want you to, Daughter Pheobe. But, for now, you have an audience with SEED. I wanted to wait another week, but according to the Doctor, continuing to starve you would be detrimental to our war efforts."
The shift lifts off, and you feel at peace. Consciousness is hard to keep, but the weight of acceleration gives you something to focus on.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 06:46:53 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 07:02:23 pm
"Yes... you say you spoke with SEED on my behalf, grandmother? That means a lot to me... thank you."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 07:08:35 pm
No kidding.+1
"Yes... you say you spoke with SEED on my behalf, grandmother? That means a lot to me... thank you."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 07:40:53 pm
"I...did not speak with SEED. That is above me by many leagues, Pheobe. It took all the resources I had just to get the action plan viewed. If...if you fail..." Mother Nicole trails off into silence, uncomfortable with the attention that the Crusader General fixes her with.
[-] THe trip is over sooner than you think, and you're unceremoniously unloaded and set down onto the smooth concrete surface. Your head swims as you look over where you are. You stand on a platform, towering over a massive city that stretches out towards the horizon. The dimming sun shines over the ornate gold livery that adorns nearly every surface. Great etchings of significant historical and religious events are everything. They are a great many words, and formulas also adorned on every surface, describing a great many processes.
The city that stretches out beneath the platform is truly massive. It hums with life, with action. Slow-moving hover ships drift between towering skyscrapers-- none of which you can see the foundations of. People bustle about, all adorned in clean, flowing robes. Crusaders patrol in full battle gear, and in one of the elevated plazas sits an array of turrets, angled towards the sky.
You are bustled into a small room, separated from Emma and Mother Nicole without ceremony. The way you are dressed, however, is. You are carefully bathed, decontaminated in a special chamber, and an older female attendant dresses you with the help of a burly man. A necklace is placed around your neck, and the wheelchair is...also bathed and decontaminated following the same protocols.
You smell clean like soap and perfume. The robe is comfortable, flowing, and immaculate, threads of gold weaved into the white cloth, and the jewels glimmer in the light.
You are wheeled into an antechamber as ornate as every room you passed through. This room is different-- great panels of jade are inset into dark metal, gold and silver threads radiating outward. The accumulation of years of wealth are on display. Two guards, clad in heavy, dark robes, emerge from the same door you do. One pushes your chair, the other keeps a bright, teal las-rifle pointed at you. At his belt hangs a hilt that hums with a powerful reactor.
It fascinates you, and you catch yourself staring at it. Somewhere, an alarm chimes, and the door opens itself.
It leads to a massive domed room. Everything is covered in a fine layer of silver and gold, the bright lights suspended like gems from thin wires almost too small to see. At the center of it all is a table cut from jade, with a hole cut in the center. Machinery spirals out and up, out from the floor and through the center of the table. You do not have to be an expert to tell that it is old. The metal itself is unlike you've ever seen, a strange dark gray that seems to absorb the light around it. Lights blink on its length.
"[leave]."
The guards bow, turning with a billow of their robes and leaving you alone. Translating the voice makes your head hurt, the way it speaks is so...foriegn. So old, that your ability to keep up is hard to maintain. It is archaic to even the most archaic of tongues. Impossibly old. Too old.
"Pheobe Gainer. [purpose?]"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 07:49:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 07:53:11 pm
"[The service of all mankind. So wills my father.]"+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 07:56:13 pm
For that matter, can we speak it at all or can we only translate?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 08:09:33 pm
"[reduce strain]." And you still cannot tell where the voice is coming from-- to the front of you? To the sides? Your headache makes it hard to focus on any one sound.
"The...the service of all mankind. So wills my father."
"[truth.]"
SEED doesn't speak next and you rest, gripping the chair hard enough to crack the plastic, holding yourself awake.
"[advanced signs of starvation. concern.]"
It goes silent, not responding to any of your words, and for a second, fear creeps over you. A robed figure hobbles in, carrying a strange length of metal. It lays it before the altar, retreating. From within the bundle of metal something shifts, flowing up organically. It resembles something like a silverfish, but you've never seen a silverfish with a welding apparatus. The silverfish works quickly, attaching the tube to the bundle of machines.
"Better, [affirmative]?"
You nod. The nature of speech is different too, more organic, more flowing. Less abrupt, less filled with useless strings of linguistic code that do nothing to help with your burning headache.
"Your patience is appreciated. I did not estimate your weakness to be so advanced as to lose translating capabilities. What is your purpose on-- [mͤ̂ͤͤ͛̄̎̓y͐̚] planet, designation Pheobe Gainer?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 08:15:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 08:31:48 pm
"I don't know why I was sent here, as I've lost my memories, but I hope to help the Church and lead a happy life. I certainly don't want to interfere with this planet of [thine]."
+1
"...But this world needs more than that, doesn't it?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 08:38:52 pm
"Affirmative."
It waits, before supplying a continuation to its statement.
"Your kind killed many of mine. Suspicion. Your [Endless Emperor, Empress] orders my destruction. What is your plan of action?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 08:42:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 08:45:01 pm
"I believe that my kind cast me away. If true, I have no love for them. I will fight to protect this planet, my new home, and those that dwell here. Can you tell me of our different kinds? What are we?"
Perfect. +1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 09:03:56 pm
+1"I believe that my kind cast me away. If true, I have no love for them. I will fight to protect this planet, my new home, and those that dwell here. Can you tell me of our different kinds? What are we?"
Perfect. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 09:30:24 pm
"A single cell in an organism of war. You swept across the galaxy and burned order into the entropy. Soldiers, warriors, gods, demons, and angels. There are as many names for you as there are stars in the night sky. An army armed with the language of the universe."
"You are not the first of that line, only one of many, a man-made virus passed down over thousands of years, evolving."
"You will be my angel, Pheobe Gainer. What comes later wo--000."
A spark flies from the machinery, and SEED is silent.
A door opens into the Sanctum, and two burly guards in heavy robes wheel something that looks very much like a stretched cabinet beside the Altar. They key a code into the front of the locker and the door swings open.
Inside is a magnificent panoply, and you rise to your feet shakily, the guards having the excellent idea to provide an arm for you to lean on. The full suit of combat armor gleams, finished with gold and silver, a dense material that weighs next to nothing for you. As an experiment, you pass it to the terrified guard, and he nearly drops it with the weight.
"How heavy is that?"
"Six [pounds]." He stammers, shocked. You nod, ticking your head back to the slot for it. Folded in the center of the armor are faded, moth-worn synthetic leathers, and you brush your fingers over them, confused. They are not designed for you, you can tell, far too big and bulky, especially in the shoulder region. Looking over the armor, you notice that you'll have to have it fitted once you make a recovery-- whoever owned this before you was a giant of a man, and you're lucky that you're the same height.
But what draws your attention is the sash with a strange rectangle of metal upon it. It hums with power, more than anything you've encountered in this world. You reach out for it, taking it in your hand.
[17] A memory comes back to you, and you push your willpower against it, willing it to live. The air around you grows stale and confined, a slight breeze filtering in through the field of energy that pushes everything back. Its durable, that is true but weaker than your old one.
[5] A tremor runs through you, and you stumble against the guard supporting you, breathing hard. Blood drips from your nose, and you brush it away carelessly with your ornate robes, staining the fabric a dark red.
An automatic carbine las-gun sits above it all, but it doesn't look active-- its probably broken, you realize, and a quick tear-down inspection that drives a sharp gasp from the two guards confirms that is the case. A lot of the contacts have rusted away, the old internal battery is corroded from the inside out, and the coolant within is non-existent, a grey sludge that is warmer than the cold room. You're tempted to throw it on the ground in disgust, but restrain yourself.
But what draws your attention is a gleaming Cutter hilt at the belt of the armor. The reactor within hums perfectly, and it fits comfortably within your off-hand. A dial, held in place by a safety mechanism, sits near your thumb, you point it away from the panoply and activate it. A thin filament pops outs of the top as you scroll the dial-up, and across its length, a white-hot fire burns to life. The heat doesn't bother you, instead filling you with an odd comfort. The display on the side begins to count down- faster or slower, depending on how long the blade is.
You turn it off, letting the metal cool before slipping it back into the holding. There's a few knives, a knuckle-duster, and an odd sort of rigid-frame backpack designed to clip on to the torso of the armor.
"Your armor. Modifications will be made according to your specifications. What name do you wish to be known by?" Seed startles you as it begins speaking again, that Silverfish back and fixing yet another part on the machine.
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 09:38:18 pm
--what
what what
what just happened
what
---
okay
"Alphira."
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 09:39:54 pm
---+1
--what
what what
what just happened
what
---
okay
"Alphira."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 13, 2020, 09:45:45 pm
---+1
--what
what what
what just happened
what
---
okay
"Alphira."
Clearly an AI runs the place, this is very interesting
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2020, 10:13:19 pm
SEED is silent for a long time after that.
"That name is known. Classified until successful completion of operation:[Angel] of Fire. Relevant documents will be delivered. Begin recovery period."
The anger within you is exultant, happy, gleeful, like a child given a birthday gift. The guard wheel the cabinet away, and one returns to get you, delivering you into the ante-chamber. You wait patiently, letting yourself drift in and out of consciousness until you pass out.
When you awaken again, it's to Emma feeding you a gray, unappetizing sludge that tastes like cardboard, but it fills your stomach with a heavy weight. You don't protest the indignity, letting yourself get fed. The days drag on as you steadily put on weight, much to the glee of the small team of researchers and consultants assigned to you, of which Emma, you later learn, is part of. Her advice and knowledge on the subject of you awes the older researchers, who jump at the chance to study an [angel].
That is your official designation now, after all, and several people call you by 'Alphira' before Emma and Mother Nicole brutally put a stop to it by sacking the worst offender. Literally. The guards put them in a sack in front of the rest and drug them out the door. From then on, you're referred to in private by Pheobe or Miss Gainer.
Eventually, you regain enough strength to feed yourself and that's where the real fun begins. Brother Hop and Mother Nicole emerge with a bundle of books, all on strategy, command, and warfare. As you recover your strength, they want you to read until you're actually tired.
A month or two later, you stagger out of physical therapy, into the only free hour you have, and seek out Emma. It's difficult to find her, she's always working, coordinating your care with only a few major hiccups here and there. You find her at her desk, face down in a book, looking exhausted.
"Hey." She murmurs, catching sight of you.
You were going to say something, but your tongue catches in your throat.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 13, 2020, 11:23:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 13, 2020, 11:33:29 pm
"Hey. We haven't really had a chance to talk lately. How are you holding up? You're doing a great job, by the way."
These are words. These are good words. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 14, 2020, 12:05:03 am
"You're doing a great job, by the way. I...really appreciate it."
[12] "Thank you Pheobe." Emma melts a little, heaving a sigh. "I'm sorry if I've been distant, lately. Between all this and--just everything. It pisses me off!" And them Emma spends the next thirty minutes or so venting to you, sometimes venting about you, funnily enough, but you're smart enough not to comment, and instead just listen. It eventually ends with Emma holding you close, grumbling about the situation but also sniffling. She finishes in a slightly teasing manner, "Usually you're together with someone for thirty years before you have to spoon-feed them nutrient paste."
You laugh a little at that.
Now looking far more relaxed, she returns to business, rising to reclaim her seat. "Since you're up and moving, and the cause of all problems, would you mind helping me figure out what you need to do? The science team couldn't put together a schedule to save their lives, and I've, unfortunately, never trained an [angel]." You notice that every sixth day is stenciled in for Church Service and 'freetime (Emma)' already, and Emma smirks a little when she catches you looking.
"I wanted more free time with you, but...this will do. You still need to do more physical therapy, and Mother Nicole was adamant on training you in leadership. Other than that, no one has any idea what to do with you."
Post by: ZBridges on March 14, 2020, 12:10:51 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 14, 2020, 01:39:06 am
"...Do you remember that night outside the Academy, with the kidnappers? Do you remember how you saw me catch a las-bolt to the back and shrug it off?"
"You weren't seeing things. And that was just the tip of the iceberg."
"I haven't done much experimenting yet-- there just weren't many chances to, at the Academy-- but I've found through trial and error some tricks with power that nobody else has. I've no idea how much I'm capable of. I think I've only just scratched the surface. Now that I'm not on Academy rations, I could probably learn to do a lot more-- I just need time to practice!"
"Other than that... study. I need to know what I'll be fighting, and I need to know how [angels] have fought in past. I need to learn what [angel] me can do, and it'll be easier to figure that out if I've got examples of what's been done."
Post by: King Zultan on March 14, 2020, 02:26:29 am
"I think I do."+1
"...Do you remember that night outside the Academy, with the kidnappers? Do you remember how you saw me catch a las-bolt to the back and shrug it off?"
"You weren't seeing things. And that was just the tip of the iceberg."
"I haven't done much experimenting yet-- there just weren't many chances to, at the Academy-- but I've found through trial and error some tricks with power that nobody else has. I've no idea how much I'm capable of. I think I've only just scratched the surface. Now that I'm not on Academy rations, I could probably learn to do a lot more-- I just need time to practice!"
"Other than that... study. I need to know what I'll be fighting, and I need to know how [angels] have fought in past. I need to learn what [angel] me can do, and it'll be easier to figure that out if I've got examples of what's been done."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 14, 2020, 09:09:05 am
+1"I think I do."+1
"...Do you remember that night outside the Academy, with the kidnappers? Do you remember how you saw me catch a las-bolt to the back and shrug it off?"
"You weren't seeing things. And that was just the tip of the iceberg."
"I haven't done much experimenting yet-- there just weren't many chances to, at the Academy-- but I've found through trial and error some tricks with power that nobody else has. I've no idea how much I'm capable of. I think I've only just scratched the surface. Now that I'm not on Academy rations, I could probably learn to do a lot more-- I just need time to practice!"
"Other than that... study. I need to know what I'll be fighting, and I need to know how [angels] have fought in past. I need to learn what [angel] me can do, and it'll be easier to figure that out if I've got examples of what's been done."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 14, 2020, 10:48:09 pm
[-]After you finish, Emma looks satisfied, looking over her notes with a nod and clarifying a few things with you. After you go over everything, front to back, she turns, opening the desk and handing over two large folders to you. "I was supposed to get these to you, by the way."
The first is labeled 'Project: [Angel] of Fire.' The Second is labeled 'Gathered Intelligence Report, Summarized.' You murmur thanks, leaning over to give Emma a goodnight kiss and head for your room. She smiles at you as she leaves, turning back to her work. With that show of affection out of the way, her pen continues to skitter across the paper as she begins to write the requisite requests and invoices.
Much has been improved since you first awoke, and now you're in a lavish suite of the complex. It has a comfortable, large bed, with an actual synth-cloth and spring mattress, a neat table, and too much closet space for your comfort. You take a seat at your desk, flipping through the files.
Spoiler: Angel of Fire (click to show/hide)
Invasion Intel Report
The news from the front is grim, indeed. The war has officially started, and across the entire Defensive Line, brutal skirmishes are fought to hold on to the defensive camps in those regions. Casualties are in the thousands and mounting. From your estimates, a company is lost every month. A draft is in the works, and the militias in the inner regions are being tasked with defending local investments. [The Infection] is using hit and run tactics with heavily armored [insects], and laser swords to protect against their attacks are in short supply. Underbarrel Inferno Shotguns are being used to stop the gap, but they're ineffective compared to melee protective squads.
Enemy aircraft are reported in the depths of the Western Wastes, and they're being used to conduct recon on the Defensive Line to significant effect. A few have been spotted further inland, with one even approaching the Holy City before being shot down by local AA units.
[-]Emma doesn't grace you with her presence that night, but she does awaken you with a soft tap on your door. She looks exhausted, like she hasn't slept, her hair a mess and heavy bags beneath her green eyes. She smiles at you, tossing you your uniform and claiming a seat nearby to explain whats going on.
"The Thornton family is willing to send their top scientist to help if you so choose. He has practical and lab experience with implants. A genius of a man, but he lacks a lot of ethics and morals." She passes a paper over to you, a letter written with your name formally asking for assistance, in return for relief on taxes. "Mother Nicole says she'll waive their taxes this year if they do so."
[3]"The clerks weren't able to find anything related directly to McCreary's battle, but, they recommend a pilgrimage to the place of it. Apparently, even after a thousand years, traces still remain. A guard detachment of thirty strong, with Hovercraft, have been assigned for your trip. Give them a day's notice and they'll be ready. "
"I've also got a new schedule for you to approve," Emma continues, pushing it over towards you. Every day is filled with training, attended on by the scientists and medical personnel. With relief, you realize that you still have free time with her, however. The location of your church service has changed too, to the Grand Cathedral of SEED. When you question her about it, she states, gently, "The Pontifex wants to deliver your service personally. I hope that's okay, he's an impressive orator, and you're a very zealous person-- its apparently a high honor. If it works for you, sign off on it."
[14] "The Crusaders don't want to flood you with information about every division and camp, so they recommended that after you're announced as [angel] you take a tour of inspections in the Defensive Lines. They're willing to put two cohorts of heavy infantry under your command, and any militia or private military force you can raise, but...uh...to put it politely, they don't want you to have to worry about it when there are bigger problems." Emma looks a little uncomfortable delivering this news to you, fidgeting in her seat. She hands you another letter to sign to accept the terms.
"After that, you can start with whatever you like."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 14, 2020, 10:58:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 14, 2020, 11:04:48 pm
I would support asking the Thornton scientist for assistance. We need all the advantages we can get. I also don't see a problem with going ahead with meeting the Pontifex for church service. Lastly, I would support taking the pilgrimage to gather more information.
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 14, 2020, 11:39:35 pm
+1 also sign for doing the inspections of defensive lines as wellI would support asking the Thornton scientist for assistance. We need all the advantages we can get. I also don't see a problem with going ahead with meeting the Pontifex for church service. Lastly, I would support taking the pilgrimage to gather more information.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 14, 2020, 11:54:45 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 12:06:01 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 12:46:06 am
"Anyway, let's say... a week from now? I'd like us both to have a day of this--" point to our free day on the schedule-- "before I go haring off somewhere!"
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 04:26:59 am
"No need for a Hovercraft relay-- I don't mind the walk."+1
"Anyway, let's say... a week from now? I'd like us both to have a day of this--" point to our free day on the schedule-- "before I go haring off somewhere!"
Post by: King Zultan on March 15, 2020, 05:11:40 am
+1"No need for a Hovercraft relay-- I don't mind the walk."+1
"Anyway, let's say... a week from now? I'd like us both to have a day of this--" point to our free day on the schedule-- "before I go haring off somewhere!"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 15, 2020, 08:02:18 am
+1+1"No need for a Hovercraft relay-- I don't mind the walk."+1
"Anyway, let's say... a week from now? I'd like us both to have a day of this--" point to our free day on the schedule-- "before I go haring off somewhere!"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 02:49:19 pm
You, in the mean-time, get dressed and start with morning exercises. Emma does return, but she doesn't spend time with you, collapsing into your bed instead and burrowing under the blankets. She's out like a light, and you gently tuck her in before leaving for physical therapy. You work until you muscles ache and burn then stagger into another classroom for Brother Hop or whoever is tutoring you today.
The next couple of days are much the same, except Emma has caught up on sleep, and seems to appreciate your assistance with her workload. At one hour of free time, she cuts your hair, styling it for you into a tight topknot. She also leaves the compound one morning, returning in the evening with two nice dress coats for you both.
You awaken early for morning service, getting dressed in your uniform but slipping on the dress coat. Emma knocks on your door when you're ready, flashing you a smile as she adjusts her uniform as well. She brushes a bit of dust from your shoulder and the two of you set out to the hovercraft platform for transit. Your guards await, dipping nods to you. "The Captain intends on meeting you tomorrow, at the start of your pilgrimage." Emma notes to you, casually, looking over a small bunch of notes, "He's a decorated veteran of several Outland Wars, and looks forward to meeting the new [angel]. Mother Nicole approved him, but he's a candidate picked by the Crusader General."
You glance over at Emma, confused, as the ship pushes up into the air, jostling you slightly. Emma doesn't respond, glancing instead towards the guards and relaxing into a conversation with you about training and what you want to do after service.
The two of you decide to have a lovely dinner at this nice Inner City restaurant, and a trip through the plazas afterward. The restaurant is well recommended by your guards, who ask for permission to speak before volunteering the information. It apparently drifts right through several of the nicer sections of the city, and there's a number of shrines and gardens along the way too and from. Emma latches on to the idea, and the food is apparently amazing, so you agree as well.
You both claim a seat within the front row of the Cathedral, upon a pew lined with comfortable cushions, and relax. The Scholars really prefer their gold and jade, and apparently this world has plenty of it. At least the pews are wood, ornately carved and smelling of freshly applied cleaning solvents. Emma looks over the program, passing it to you with a shrug of her shoulder. She opens her notebook and begins reading through it, quietly offering, "He wishes to meet you in his office after the service. I'll be entertained with tea and cookies, apparently." She makes a face but doesn't protest further, especially as the Pontifex emerges from a nearby door, and begins a slow trudge up to the pulpit.
He's younger than you expected, a middle-aged man with few wrinkles and a mop of unruly gray hair. He's quite handsome, you note, and his smile comes easily, especially when he sweeps his eyes across the room and finds you. Then, he speaks, his voice booming out through the Cathedral, only amplified by the natural acoustics. "I must begin today's service with an apology, as I will not be following the program. I hope that you all will allow this old man his fancy."
"I will not be speaking on charity, but instead about the first [angel], and the first [demon]. On anger, on loss, and on holy retribution." [7] He glances at you in his routine sweep of the audience, and you've noticed you've shifted forward in your seat. He's noticed too.
Long ago, after SEED had made the world, an evil emerged from the sky to challenge his great work. It was a profane mockery of SEED, a twisting, corrupting influence that sought only to spread its own sick infection to all of creation. Not to give life to a barren world, but to devour all it could. It opposed everything that SEED stood for, and SEED demanded an end to it.
But it was not an end that SEED could deliver alone, but an end that must be purchased with blood. He goes to great lengths to describe the war, the slaughter, the death, how SEED had to create soldiers from the very dust to even match the ferocious onslaught. And he describes how hopeless the war was, how despite SEED's best intentions, there was nothing that could be done. Nothing at all.
[13]The crowd is silent, a heavy weight hanging over them. The dangers are too real, the descriptions all too similar to the daily newspapers that circulate around the Holy City, to the rumors that swirl in its tea shops, in its taverns. Shoulders are slumped, there are few dry eyes. The Pontifex pauses, letting the crowd suffer that depression, a frown on his mask, but his eyes glow with the glee of an orator successful in his task.
...And then came McCreary, who turned the tide from the moment he emerged from the Inner Sanctum, clad in armor made from the Void between worlds. He strode across the battlefield and made it his weapon. All of the creation of SEED responded to his whim, the world itself fighting off the invaders that would corrupt it into disgusting sludge and foul pollution. He approached the Great Worm that was the King of the Dead, and with a single savage blow, split apart the ground to devour it. But he was injured in the fight, and as he watched the great worm thrash its final fight, he expired from his injuries.
"But, he gave us hope. He gave us control. He gave us power. In his death, he destroyed the greatest enemy mankind has ever known and saved our world." His voice rises and falls in a sing-song manner, lifting to a crescendo, "He gave away his eternity in peace, and comfort, all for our hope. Our happiness. Our lives in the Great Work."
[12]The Pontifex finally breathes out, bowing his head. The rest of the service proceeds more quietly, the Pontifex delivering a lecture on fire and thermodynamics. How the heat of the fire keeps the fuel at the ignition point, so on, and so on. It's actually mildly interesting as far as lecture topics go, and you listen intently.
[-]Finally, the Pontifex gives a benediction, lifting his hand and blessing you in the name of SEED. He approaches attendants in tow. Emma and your guards bow at the hips...you do not, as he shakes your hand instead. "Come, Sister Alphira we have much to discuss. I'm told you're a lover of food. I've had my chefs provide a wonderful noon-time tea for us, and your attendants will also be provided for, of course."
You're lead into the office, and he gestures for you to sit across from him in a comfortable nook. A cart full of snacks and treats lies between you, as well as a neat little tea table. A fresh, steaming cup awaits you. He adjusts his robe to sit more comfortably, leaning back in his chair. "What did you think of the sermon, Sister Alphira? I had to improvise a lot of it."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 03:18:46 pm
Er, what's the proper honorific for a Pontifex? "Father"?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 03:48:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 15, 2020, 03:59:00 pm
Smile. "A stirring oration! You are skilled with the spoken word."Dunno, either way +1
Er, what's the proper honorific for a Pontifex? "Father"?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 04:02:09 pm
[9 vs 16] The Pontifex responds to your praise with a charming smile, and it is indeed endearing to you. "Thank you, Sister Alphira, it means a lot to me to have my services attended to by the [angel] of our times. And times must be desperate indeed to have an [angel]. [crossaint]? My chef hand-made them with fresh farmland butter and the finest [wheat] flour, and I find them quite delicious." He gestures to the pastry in question, lifting his teacup in the same smooth motion and taking a sip.
"Would you mind conversing in a higher tongue with me? I must admit that we will be discussing things of secrecy soon, and my intentions were less than pure to bring you here." There's innuendo in there, you realize, but you dip a nod.
"[What do you think of our god, Alphira? Inspiring? Or did you find SEED's current state mournful?]" Its one of the highest scholarly tongues, you realize, approaching something close to SEED's own language. You can converse fluently in it, as you feel well enough to translate, but it is indeed designed to hide and conceal by its very nature.
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 04:05:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 04:15:05 pm
"[SEED created you. But you had a life before, with friends and lovers and strife...why did you have to live in fear of your heritage, if SEED truly created a perfect being to win this war?]?
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 04:37:07 pm
[Now... now, I am unsure. I have uncovered the ghost of a memory. I do not know what brought about my making; I do not know what I am. SEED tells me there is little difference between demon and angel.]
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 05:44:22 pm
"[Because my heritage is unknown, Brother Pontifex. My power woke before ever SEED recognized me-- it seemed likely that I was a demon, though I be not so murderous as they! It was not a pleasant thought. I hoped to escape it.]"+1
[Now... now, I am unsure. I have uncovered the ghost of a memory. I do not know what brought about my making; I do not know what I am. SEED tells me there is little difference between demon and angel.]
This guy is giving off some serious grand vizier energy.
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 05:46:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 05:55:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 06:11:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 06:17:57 pm
"[I am... wary of that which I do not understand, Brother Pontifex. Nevertheless, SEED has (to my knowledge) done well by humanity, and I am willing to respect that. If it would call itself a god, I am willing to abide by that as well.]"+1
"[...but what are your thoughts on the matter, Pontifex? You may speak freely, as I will take your words in the strictest confidence].
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 06:29:29 pm
"[I am... wary of that which I do not understand, Brother Pontifex. Nevertheless, SEED has (to my knowledge) done well by humanity, and I am willing to respect that. If it would call itself a god, I am willing to abide by that as well.]"+1
"[...but what are your thoughts on the matter, Pontifex? You make speak freely, as I will take your words in the strictest confidence].
Sure, +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 06:39:48 pm
"[I am told you are a believer, Sister, you've never missed a service if you could help it. Doesn't it complicate matters of theology, serving a living god? Philosophy loses focus when the Material is introduced.]"
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 06:54:23 pm
"[l'm not sure that I understand what the difficulty is. Is it truly not better to be able to learn theology directly from your god?]"
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 07:27:08 pm
in a different age and in a far away world
I dunno we need to get meta here. :P
"[l'm not sure I understand what the difficulty is. Is not a truly worthy philosophy enhanced by its connection to the concrete world? Is it not better to be able to learn theology directly from your god?]"
"[I am a believer, Brother Pontifex, but so too I am a pragmatist. For its extraordinary age, its unique intelligence, its apparent benevolence, I deem SEED worthy of my veneration and my service-- philosophy need not come into it! We have an accord, SEED and I; we work now towards the same end. It is enough.]"
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 08:33:00 pm
+1in a different age and in a far away world
I dunno we need to get meta here. :P
"[l'm not sure I understand what the difficulty is. Is not a truly worthy philosophy enhanced by its connection to the concrete world? Is it not better to be able to learn theology directly from your god?]"
"[I am a believer, Brother Pontifex, but so too I am a pragmatist. For its extraordinary age, its unique intelligence, its apparent benevolence, I deem SEED worthy of my veneration and my service-- philosophy need not come into it! We have an accord, SEED and I; we work now towards the same end. It is enough.]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 08:49:19 pm
"[I brought you here to discuss what I can do for you, I'm a very wealthy individual, and there are a number who listen to my words with reverence. If you need anything, please, let me know. My service to the ideals of SEED may only be matched by your own, Sister Alphira, and I look forward to serving with you in the Great Work. Could I answer any questions for you, Sister Alphira?]"
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 08:57:38 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 09:07:57 pm
Perhaps SEED doesn't have the best of intentions for us after we do our duty. "Containment procedures" sounds worrying.
Quite possibly not. We'll have to look over the folder later.
"No apologies are necessary, Brother Pontifex-- there's naught wrong with a bit of intellectualizing! I hope I haven't come across as dismissive." (Smile.) "That said, there is something on my mind..."
"Your sermon earlier-- you described the battles of McCreary. I suspect I could match certain of his more supernatural abilities, if only I knew the manner in which he fought-- the manner in which he wielded his power. Have you any knowledge on this matter?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 09:19:24 pm
"You can still see the bones of the Great Beast, for instance, strewn in McCreary's lake. Its...its an impressive sight, to be sure, and one that must truly be experienced to be believed."
"I intend to go on the pilgrimage soon, Brother Pontifex." You offer, finally taking a sip of your tea.
"Ah, would you like a guided palanquin or some of the Church's Sacred robes? Many of the stops on the way are chapel towns, and right on the edge of the lake is a military base call McCreary's rest." He pauses, making eye contact and flicking them to the file, "Some people believe that is where he died. Others believe he succumbed to his wounds after meeting with SEED one last time. His body was recovered and interred here within the Holy City, in the end. I could call in some connections to ensure a private viewing of your...sibling, if you wish?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 09:23:50 pm
Withdraw into our own head for a sec. Was... was McCreary...?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 09:32:02 pm
...
[8]Did you just call me like I'm your thrice-damned dog?!
Your hand spasms, awkwardly in a strange twitch. The anger eventually recedes, drifting away after a moment's careful calculation. The Pontifex looks concerned, shifting back in his seat from your strange movement. His eyes dart towards your hand then your face.
"Alphira, are you okay?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 10:09:00 pm
"Apologies, brother Pontifex-- I stirred an old memory at your words. I was reckless to do so."
"I do not think I shall need to view McCreary's body, though I appreciate the offer! I am more interested in the manner of his fighting than the lay of his bones."
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 10:10:20 pm
This might help us determine if SEED is planning treachery.
Post by: Superdorf on March 15, 2020, 10:15:58 pm
I'm sorry! Just-- you and VOID are the only two I know who've got any knowledge of this... I thought I could find one of our own.
"Apologies, brother Pontifex-- I stirred an old memory at your words. I was reckless to do so."
"I do not think I shall be making many detours on the way to McCreary's final battlefield-- a private viewing of McCreary himself sounds lovely, though. I would be most grateful."
Post by: ZBridges on March 15, 2020, 10:17:35 pm
Yeah, alright.+1.
I'm sorry! Just-- you and VOID are the only two I know who've got any knowledge of this... I thought I could find one of our own.
"Apologies, brother Pontifex-- I stirred an old memory at your words. I was reckless to do so."
"I do not think I shall be making many detours on the way to McCreary's final battlefield-- a private viewing of McCreary himself sounds lovely, though. I would be most grateful."
I think it would be good to cultivate a relationship with this person. If SEED is planning to kill us, he could be helpful.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 15, 2020, 11:56:17 pm
You blink, rising to follow him. You're reunited with Emma in another chamber, and she politely and professionally falls in line behind you, not saying a word as she glances between you and the Pontifex with a curious look. He separates from the group as you ready yourself for flight and re-emerges wearing something a little more discrete. Its a Crusader military outfit without rank or markings. He smiles at you as he claims a seat across from the two of you. When the hover-craft lifts off, he begins to chat pleasantly with Emma, asking questions here and there.
[3] Some of the questions are about you, and Emma deflects them politely and efficiently, not volunteering more than she needs about you.
It takes less than thirty minutes to arrive in a vast, stately plaza, paved with granite between high girders of polished, painted steel. The hovercraft touches down beside another, and, you notice as you step out of it, that the plaza was blocked off with bright orange barricades with the symbol of SEED painted on them in bright white. Soldiers clad in grey robes face outward, armed with las-rifles.
The Chapel itself is a stately building, but it resembles the sanctum with a high, domed ceiling and bright lighting. The air is cold, frigid, as evidenced by Emma and the Pontifex shivering against it. It doesn't bother you. No, what bothers you is the corpse interred within a complicated glass sarcophagus. He's clad in gold and jade, with a bright white robe beneath it, shining and radiant in the light. But you cannot ignore the frozen color to his skin or his sunken face.
A mock-up of a Cutter Hilt sits in one hand on his chest, the other holds a submachine gun, much like the one in the cabinet of his former panoply. Both are fakes, you are sure.
Despite the age of the corpse, its been remarkably well-preserved in a below freezing, sterile environment. Its a bearded man, with a large, broken nose, and long, curly blond hair that hangs past his shoulders. Not old, not young, and without the beard, you would expect he looks quite androgynous. Emma approaches behind you.
[12] What was at first a fleeting feeling has solidified in your stomach—a sickening mix of fear, joy, and remorse. When you think about why you feel things, it comes to you. Fear, because this man, even in death, radiates as a threat on a deep level. Joy, for not having to fight, and remorse, for his death--He deserved a better death than this world could have provided.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 12:17:13 am
Approach.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 12:21:59 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 12:26:31 am
Discreetly examine the body as thoroughly as possible.
I dunno how much we're gonna be able to discern what with all the armour covering the guy (seems only his head is exposed), but sure: once we've drawn nigh, give the body a good look-over and see if we can't pick out a cause of death.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 12:50:32 am
The weight that this corpse project increases as you approach until it feels like the very air is heady with it-- with his will. Your hand moves of its own accord, tracing across the frozen glass. Emma moves to follow, but your guards stop her, backing away from the both of you. A brief flash of anger burns through you, but you push it down, down, not acting on it.
[20 vs 4]He should've been recycled and given a soldier's burial, not used as some cult's relic! The anger that is Alphira burns to the surface in a bright flash, overwhelming you. It happens all at once, heat starting to burn at your fingertips. The room temperature rises incredibly, and the glass shatters out from your fingertips from the difference.
[12] You cannot control yourself, for the moment, so instead you watch, and learn from your past self. The calculations she's doing are incredibly advanced to the point where you can only barely follow along. An extension of your will reaches out into the material plane, ripping apart water in the air to turn into hydrogen and oxygen, and igniting both into concentrated, invisible fire at the tips of your fingertips. His clothing and armor begin to burn, but he does not until his torso is laid bare and the cheap metal is pooled around him. A great, savage gash rips its way across his chest, nearly the entire width across. Its barely healed but healed nonetheless with fresh scab tissue.
[20]"He died of starvation, not his wounds. SEED will weaken us until we cannot fight, and then lock us up to die." Alphira reaches out, taking hold of his arm, static bristling in the air. Behind you, a scuffle breaks out-- your objective is safe, Emma is safe, but one of your guards isn't-- he's been shot in the head by the Pontifex. The other guard lets Emma go, but she doesn't run to you, instead of falling back to rest against one of the columns. In shock, no doubt. Poor girl can't stand the sight of blood. Shame.
"Sister Alphira we mean you no--"
"Shut up, if you were a threat I'd have killed you." You bark with a command, voice dark. "Get Emma somewhere safe."
"N-No. I'm here. I'm here for you."
[20 vs 12]Even Alphira is surprised by that, glancing back to Emma, who seems to have regained her composure. But she doesn't say a word, returning to the matter at hand. Alphira wipes away the blood as it drips from your-her nose, something screaming within her to stop, but she ignores it. A steady stream of grey dust emerges from the corpse where your hand touches it, pooling within your free hand, motes drifting into the air. It only takes a little time before you have enough to fill your hand. The...thing.. shifts and moves of its own volition, sometimes it seems to evaporate like water, only to condensate and reform within your grasp. The weight never changes, despite its volatility.
[2 vs 7] You once again make to Burn, but instead, something within you hesitates, and that hesitation is enough to seal it back away, however angry it is. We burn him or vent his corpse later, do you understand, Patches?! After this war, after SEED. We deserve more than a morbid display.
...
Eat it--blood is easier, but I didn't want to sicken Emma and our allies.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 12:55:41 am
Have we gained the power to ignite invisible fires with our fingertips?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 01:09:54 am
[-]The calculations are hard and costly, you notice, and you're still weak. You feel like attempting to replicate them will end poorly for you. Do you still wish to proceed?
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 01:13:30 am
You want us to eat the dust? If the answer is affirmative, eat the dust.
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 01:13:46 am
what are we doing
what just happened
Er, no.
And give me a moment to figure out how on earth we're gonna deal with this. :-\
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 01:19:35 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 01:23:53 am
Do not proceed. "[Thank you for your timely assistance, Pontifex. It would appear that my sibling died from starvation rather than from his wounds. How odd. Do you think that the Holy SEED would know how this came to pass?]"
You want us to eat the dust? If the answer is affimative, eat the dust.
+̸̭̔1̶̨͇̽
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 01:25:10 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 01:32:38 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 01:57:07 am
[17]You are not here anymore. You're on a dry, dusty world, near a massive machine that thrums with energy. You approach, ready to be changed, ready to be born anew.
And you are. The powers that manifest allow you to notice much about the planet you spin on. The soil, the composition, what part this to what part this, the percentages play out in your mind. You lift a hand one day, putting your will into the ground, drawing out the silica into a sharp crystalline spear. The next day you pull moisture from the air to turn the soil moist and make it into sinking quicksand.
Wars follow as you leave your home, one mercenary company, then another. Lovers, friends, foes, all eventually die, leaving you alone to drift in the void. Until you happen upon a planet with a pinging distress signal. The voice that negotiates your pay is odd and halting, but food and wealth are food and wealth.
You don your armor, meeting with the machine that rules these people. You're angered by such a strange place where the men obey the machine, but food and wealth...
The war is harsh, against [the plague], but you've fought worse creatures, and these die easily enough.
A battlefield is suddenly turned into sharp spikes, impaling abominations in the thousands.
The world opens up, swallowing creatures with a simple application of will.
The final fight is rough, your shield failing you, and the grand abomination that commands the rest brutalizes you with sharp tentacles of silvery steel. It takes everything you have within you to pull apart the ground and drop the creature into savage, massive spikes that jut high into the sky. It continues to squirm until you cut it apart, piece by piece with your Cutter. You fall to the earth, healing yourself and breathing hard, ragged. Every bone in your body aches, and looking down-- that's a lung...then you awaken again.
You're in an empty room, the walls reinforced steel meters thick. There's no more strength in your body, no weapon to help you...you fade away.
[14+4 vs 7] When you open your eyes, you're in the plaza. Squads of Crusaders mingle around the building but don't give you a second glance. The Pontifex is speaking to a small group of officers, and they look apologetic. He's angry, you realize, "Your failure to guard the [angel] against this extremism is sickening, Crusaders. Tell your general to meet me tonight-- I must have a word with him about screening his candidates better. Not only was the [angel] and her adjutant nearly killed, but the sacred relic of McCreary was damaged in her rage. Do you understand how much a humiliation this is for the Crusaders?"
"I want dinner and the walk you promised." Emma softly murmurs, leaning heavily into you. She's holding your hand tightly, like a vise, and her skin is paler than usual. In your other hand, you realize, is a shimmering dagger of glass, stained with blood. "You killed the guard with that." Emma quietly offers your role, "But not before blacking out and unleashing a firestorm to protect me."
Your other guard stands beside you silently, expression hidden beneath her kevlar mesh mask. You note, with relief, that she's the one that recommended the restaurant, but now you know that she's the Pontifex's dog.
Continue to listen to me, to let me in Patches. I'll make us more powerful than we can ever dream. Alphira's voice sends a shiver down your back-- its so clear, so easy to hear. Would letting her have more say really be that bad?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 02:03:16 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 02:22:12 am
Namely, remorse.
...We'll talk later. Now allow me this moment.
Drop the shard.
"I-- I didn't want this-- I didn't want any of this-- not for you-- not for me--"
Hugs. Grief.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 02:29:39 am
SEED can wait. We have more immediate concerns.+1
Namely, remorse.
You've given me nothing but pain. Now allow me this moment.
Drop the shard.
"I-- I didn't want this-- I didn't want any of this-- not for you-- not for me--"
Hugs. Grief.
I'm listening. Perhaps you could have been more... subtle, however.
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 02:37:48 am
I'm listening. Perhaps you could have been more... subtle, however.
I'd be willing to consider having words to this end with Alphira later-- we desperately need to come to some sort of understanding with her, seeing as she can apparently take control of us and murder people whenever she thinks her honor's been slighted. For now, though... I'd really rather just set the whole thing aside until we're a little better equipped emotionally to deal with it.
Hm. To that end, Imma revise my post a wee bit back there.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 02:41:59 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 02:50:03 am
"Shh-shhh...this isn't -really- your fault-- the guard flipped out when it saw the case crack-- he tried to hold me hostage. The Pontifex shot him-- you didn't pull that trigger, you didn't mess with his mind, you were angry about your brother and wanted to see him...I understand. Shh, shhh...the guard moved first- it wasn't you. I promise Pheobe."
With a firm grasp on either side of your tear-stained face, she makes you look at her, "Look if you really feel that bad, just promise me you'll swish with something before kissing me tonight. I love you, Pheobe. I know what that means." She pulls you close, kissing your forehead. "We'll be fine together, okay?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 02:58:54 am
Sometime tonight, we're gonna have to open actual negotiations with Alphira. Sometime tonight, we're gonna have to consider the question of SEED.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:00:20 am
Gratitude. Unwinding. Dinner.+1
Sometime tonight, we're gonna have to open actual negotiations with Alphira. Sometime tonight, we're gonna have to consider the question of SEED.
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:03:37 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:04:52 am
From the update: "he was shot in the head by the Pontifex."
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:13:13 am
"Alright, we need to get our stories straight-- and this is exactly what happened, do the both of you understand?" Emma and the Guard nod, listening to the words of the Pontifex.
leaves me wondering just what went down when we weren't looking.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:15:38 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:17:48 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:19:36 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:22:10 am
In your other hand, you realize, is a shimmering dagger of glass, stained with blood. "You killed the guard with that." Emma quietly offers your role, "But not before blacking out and unleashing a firestorm to protect me."
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:23:20 am
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:30:16 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:31:58 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:40:57 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 04:11:07 am
[20]After shaking yourself out of it, Emma lifts you to your feet, and she catches you staring at the dagger with a mild sense of confusion. With a slow glance around, she explains in a gentle whisper, "You...you made that from the glass you shattered." She explains, softly, moving to gently take it from your hand. "The Pontifex took it from you when you were all...weird, stabbed the body and handed it back."
"Apparently you having weapons not given to you breaks 'containment'. That's what he said. Unless it was in self-defense...he didn't want to explain more."
An impulse strikes you, and you turn away from the officers and Pontifex. The equation is fresh in your mind. You can do this, you can do this...and you do.
There's no light show, no fancy effects---the dagger simply begins to shift, coiling in around itself, the blood dripping off to the ground.
Within your hands by the end of it is a glass flower, that besides the lack of color, looks exactly like the ones from the fallow spring fields at the Academy. You hesitate, before handing it to Emma, suddenly sheepish. A mantra begins to dig itself into your brain, some old survival technique.
I'm not Alphira. You repeat this to yourself as the two of you set off. You're quiet, at first, but eventually, the two of you chat a little about what happened. It isn't a comfortable talk, but it clears the air. The walk is indeed lovely and calming, and your mind drifts into relaxation. You both drink when you arrive at the restaurant, your guard surreptitiously seated one table away, where she actually takes off the kevlar and pretends to enjoy herself.
Her rifle isn't that far away.
[18]But what's important is that you and Emma genuinely enjoy yourself, and, true to what she says, you have to take a swish of wine before you can kiss her.
When you arrive back at your compound, Emma is an adorable mess, bragging about the flower to the guard, who listens in stoic patience.
Mother Nicole is the first one that greets you, wrapping you in a tight hug that threatens to break bones. "Pheobe, I'm so sorry--- I thought he could be trusted-- I don't understand why he would...Pheobe, please, I'm sorry."
[15] "Mother Nicole...we would just like to relax together if that's okay?" Emma asks, saving you from further questions, continuing, gently, "It wasn't your fault. You did everything right."
She lets you go with an awkward tousle of your hair, content for the moment to let you rest.
You lay in bed. Emma sleeps next to you, still dressed, having fallen asleep the moment her head hit the pillow, and you're left alone with your thoughts.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 04:15:56 am
Thanks for your help earlier. Can we talk about when and how you should have control? That's something that I think we should consider.
Post by: King Zultan on March 16, 2020, 04:48:51 am
That's a pleasant way to pass the rest of the day. We got confirmation that we didn't hurt anyone, just broke the glass case, so we should take that into account when negotiating with Alphira.+1
Thanks for your help earlier. Can we talk about when and how you should have control? That's something that I think we should consider.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 05:07:52 am
I'm keeping my word here, Patches, and you're the one who keeps coming to me with questions. I'm content to sleep my days away until the...VOID lets me take full control.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 05:12:17 am
Similarly, if we fight with each other for control, we'll end up where we were last time, nearly dead. If we can iron this out, we won't risk damaging the body beyond repair.
Post by: King Zultan on March 16, 2020, 06:22:18 am
Sure, and I'll keep my word as well, but you can't do that if we're dead. The more you help us in tight situations, the greater the likelihood that you'll actually see the day that you take full control. Think of it like an investment.+1
Similarly, if we fight with each other for control, we'll end up where we were last time, nearly dead. If we can iron this out, we won't risk damaging the body beyond repair.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 06:32:07 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 16, 2020, 12:37:32 pm
What do we say to the angel? Anything?
((I put light blue text to indicate that if we talk to the angel in us, that can be the color we use))
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 01:36:35 pm
What do we say to the angel? Anything?
((I put light blue text to indicate that if we talk to the angel in us, that can be the color we use))
I'm not sure we have an "angelic" alter ego. We've got VOID and Alphira, and that's all I've seen.
If we do wind up talking to VOID, I'd be inclined to use z̴̥̳̚ả̶͔̦̓l̴̤̃̉g̴̛̪̭̔ọ̵̚ text for the purpose-- but we'll figure that out when the time comes.
Understood, I’m sorry about that
Look... I was scared of what you might have done when I wasn't watching, but you really were magnificent back there. You say you can make a god of us? I'm listening.
Just, please... don't shatter the life we've made for ourselves here. I need this.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 01:46:12 pm
D̶̼̫̝̪͈̙̘̥͇̊̆̂͜ǫ̸̯̅͂͊̑̆̿́̅̅̚͝ ̶̡̧̦̦͉̣̞̯̝̥͙̱̗̏̾͑̎͛̔̕͝y̴̨̛̛̭͓͚͈̭̍̈́̎̈́̆̏̆̿͑́͐͗̓̍ơ̷̧̤̗͍̍͜ú̵̯̼̥̊͊̋̔̿͆́̾͂́̈́̉̇͗̽͘ ̷̡̰̪̬̖͙͕̝̯̪͔͉̣̻̔̀́̾ḩ̷͕̯͈̞̠͈̺̌ḁ̷̫͇̜͎̼̽͌͊̈́̋̐̈̚v̷̨͇̻̭͇̊͊̇̀̀̌̏̈̄̂̀̑͝͝é̴͚̪̦͔̬̓̑̓̋͂͝͝ ̷̡͈̟͕͍̰̑̇̓̃̉ẫ̶͈̑͆͛͑̋̋̇̀̇̕͘̕͜͝n̷̨̢̺̜͚̮͎͚̥͓͕̳̿̅͠ͅy̷͍̮͍̠̱̠̰̩̩͍̟͐͊t̵͉̮̪̔̎̈̄̈́̅h̸̪̪̠̘̩̭̤̀̽̐͊͜ị̷̧̤͓̞͍̯̤̤̭͍̞̾̅̈́͒͋̔͋́̔͜n̷͚̜̩͇̲̂͑̄̀̅͐͝g̸͙̪̥͖͋̾̀̄̔́̂̐́̄͋̏̏̕͝ ̸̛͈̫̘̙̮̺͖̰͚͆̽̉̓̇̓̒̏̃̌̓̍̈ͅt̷͈̗̞̤͈̗̪͉͆̀͒̿͜ớ̵̘̞͓͆̅̉̐̓͑̋̑̀̅̑̾̍ ̸̛̗̱͓͕̳̼͉̣̩̠̘̓́̇͐̈́̊́̂̄̊̊̇͘͘a̸̡̡̨̩̼̝̥̼̰͈̥̫͉̰̥̘͝d̴̡̠̦̳͎͉͔̜͔̼̠̘͈̱̥̆̂̈́̃ͅd̴̢̻̘̞͍̙̯̞̾͒̀̋̑̿̄̓͝͝?̴̘͖͚̝̹̲͌̓̇̋̃̆̋̂͋̚̚͝͝͠
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 03:47:00 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 03:49:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 04:04:51 pm
Understood, I’m sorry about that
+1
Look... I was scared back there of what you might do, but you really were magnificent today. You say you can make a god of us? I'm listening.
I̷̘͘'̷̡̳͌m̷͇̅ ̷̗̀l̴̛͚̾ị̶̼͝ś̵̮͖ṱ̷͐̋è̷̜n̸̬̿i̶̠̐̇n̴̩͈̊̏ġ̴̡ ̵̺̏̕ţ̵̄o̵̢̍͛ ̸̛̜̋b̸͕̿ō̴ͅt̸͈̖̍̉h̷̡͈͆̃ ̶̤̰͒o̷̭͂̀f̶̛̥̔ ̶͕̅̂y̸̝͙͗o̶̞̿ȗ̸͙.̶̡͇̒
Just, please... be careful of the life we've made for ourselves here. I need this.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 04:10:35 pm
However, I'll think it over and return later to make a decision. I don't want to delay the game unnecessarily.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 16, 2020, 04:15:13 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 04:17:38 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 16, 2020, 04:21:17 pm
Some of the earliest posts do make reference to a yellow voice, while Alphira is orange, but I'm not sure if that is a substantive difference or just an accidental.the white, ( thought was the angel, while the black, I thought was the void, then there is yellow, which I think is us, then there is orange, so we have 4 minds sharing a body.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 04:22:34 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 04:26:11 pm
To be honest, it is difficult for me to agree to that. Asking Alphira to "make a god of us" could awaken her worst impulses, and we would need to be more than neutral with the VOID to form an alliance.
I'm open to gentler words, if you've words to offer. I'm trying to show Alphira we're not dismissing her out of hand, is all.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 04:57:52 pm
Hm, you might have something there. How about this:Understood, I’m sorry about that
+1
Look... I was scared back there of what you might do, but you really were magnificent today. You say you can help us? I'm listening.
W̸̢̨̱̗̬̳͓̭̰̟͚̝̻̻̹͆͌̑̿́́̈͑͂̚ͅḫ̶̡̣͖́̿̅̓̈́͛̐̾̓͒͘͠a̸̖̅̇͑́̽͑̋̋̓̐̈̕̚͝͝t̸̢̛̛͙̭͈̟̞͚̦̜̫͍̺̖̓͌̊̏̈́͒͐̎̌͝͝ ̷̢͖͈̟̭̻̠̦͚̦̖̲̓͌̀̾͋͌̒͒̐͘̕͜ͅͅå̸̳͎͔͖̬̘̗̒̑̊̅͌̈́͌͛̄r̴̡̧͈͔͙̱̻̪̟̮͓̞̗̯͆̍͌́͗͊͒͆̇̒͂̓́́̀̌e̸̟̯̟̝̬̬͊̿̆̒͌͒̏̐̏͂̉͗͂̀ ̶̧̞͈͖̺͕̼͂́̄̀̄͌̑̍̔̚̕y̴̨̬̻͓̮͍͋̍͋̒͗̚ơ̶͚̟̼̰̬͍̘͔̣̱͍̖̪͔͌̃̈́̓̌͑̍̈͆̽̎̈̚u̷̲̜̥͖̞̰͎̱̖͉͌̒̐̽̎͒̉ͅͅr̷̪̯̤̓͆̽̉̽͗͐̈́̇̂̃̔͗̇̕͜͝ ̸̧̱̼̯̦̬̜̭̦̜̱̙̑̓̊̊͐̒͜t̴̡͚͈̖̭̱̙̣̩͍͍̟̟͇̘͉̝͌̅͑̉͛̏̋͊̋͝ḩ̵̡̜̘̤͙̣́̉́ǫ̵̡̛̰̱͓̤̝̏̏͌͒́̋̌͗̈̓ͅu̴̜͉̮͍̙͉̩̯̝̦̘̩͉͕̹̽̈́̊̆͐͊̑̒̐̕͝g̶̛̳͌̐̓̓͛͑̀͂̽͗́́̓̚͝h̵͍̙͚̗͉̬̋̓̑̽̉̐͊̀̆͑́͋̾̕͠ṱ̶̨̧̧̝̰̳͇͉̗͉̯͇̬̺̩̃̔͛̎͝s̴̛͔̀͆̂͐̅̾́̑̎̈́ ̵̩̣̫͔̈͜ơ̷͍̳͔̬̟̻̐n̸͕̬̟̲̙̘̳̓͒͐̍̅͑̑̿͌͌ ̴̻̬̮̭̮̰̤͔͙̳͔͈̽̆̉̊̎̂̐̅͂̍͜ͅt̵̢̧̨̧̛̺̠̗̰̟̲̤̤͈̤̱͖͠͠ͅh̴̨̯̞̦̝̤̘͕͔̬̭͖̮̆͜ͅe̷͉̬̳̜̘͎̪̲̘͚̰͕̮̜̤̭̪̅́̓͛̂͆̽̀͌͛̂́̿͘͠ ̵̠͍͍̪̗̙̠̙̳͓̼̰̺̮͇͎́̆͌̂͑̈́̄͊̎͜͠m̴̱̓̅̆̄̌͐͌̕̚á̶̢̡̬̭͖̙́͑͒̐̐͘̕͝͝͝͝t̶̗̜̃͂́̀͊̐̀̏̒́̕ͅt̵̡̡̗͚̼̱̜̬͗̈́͌̿̃̀̿́̊̈͌̆͘̚͠ͅȩ̷̖̖͈̬̙̯̰̟͖̲̩̔̓̉̆̕͝ȑ̷̨̧̯͚͚͖̪͍̤̣͕͚̞̫̹͍̝̑̀͐̀̃?̶̰̫̗͔̳̤͈͉̭̾̆̐̉̑̃͠.̶̡͇̒
Just, please... be careful of the life we've made for ourselves here. I need this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 04:58:44 pm
I can't teach you everything I could do. Its... it's all so vague...VOID had to Overload our processing just to save us during the fall, and that's damage that cannot be repaired easily.
But I can remember this; our primary vector is energy and hydrogen manipulation.
You've reached a point where you're sweating, and your lungs are burning for oxygen, so you push yourself further, continuing to sprint around the track. You try to question the VOID, but all you get in return is a brief ache in your head. A thought dawns on you, and you reach out to try and connect with McCreary.
[14]You sit amongst the sand and the salt, feeling the hot winds blowing your hair. Your tan skin drips with perspiration, but you live. You're people call you a miracle for being able to weather the noon-day sun. You rule here without needing to rule. But the knowledge that there are other worlds out there is an ember in your brain. It keeps you from being satisfied with this life. Inaction breeds weakness, or so the elders say, so you lift a handful of sand and close your eyes...
When you come to, you're sitting cross-legged on the floor of the training room, with a sculpture of tile flooring curling into the air in front of you. It flows an ebbs with abstracts, a shifting construct retaining the same color and density of the track.
[7] You wipe away a drop of blood from your nose and contemplate the art until the head-ache fades to an acceptable level. Its a replica of what you saw McCreary make. You don't know how to do it without accessing McCreary's memory, but you think you could keep practicing and eventually get the hang of it.
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 05:04:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 16, 2020, 05:12:48 pm
Keep practicing, but stop if we develop a worse headache.
+1
Go try and get some sleep once we're done. We may not need much, but it is the middle of the night out here!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 05:31:16 pm
[7]It doesn't come, no matter how hard you try. You focus on the sculpture, on the ground, trying to imagine what makes it up. But there's nothing to help you, nothing that you can get a grip on. You put your hand on the sculpture, trying to focus willpower into changing it, but nothing happens.
[9]You try for a while, and only succeed in making a part of the sculpture crack.
[1] The headache you thought you could ignore suddenly roars with a vengeance. You collapse. The world spins, and you pass out.
[17]A guard is gently shaking you awake. When you stumble to rise, he offers his hand to lift you up, which you gratefully take. His uncovered eyes drift over to the sculpture, interested in your impromptu art. "Did you make that, Angel Alphira?" He asks, curious, as you steady yourself on him. When you nod an affirmative, "Its quite beautiful. Its...its amazing what you can do."
[18]"Ah, I apologize. I'm Captain Zachery McKinney." He pulls down his mesh, dipping his head in a polite bow. "I'm the captain of your personal guard, and I look forward to serving you...in the Great Work." He emphasizes that last phrase, his eyes bright in the dull light of the training room. "Do you need medical assistance, Angel Alphira? Its a concern for a guard when they find their subject passed out."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on March 16, 2020, 05:43:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 06:07:17 pm
I was just testing something. Never mind. Some food would do me well.+1
"It's a pleasure to meet you, however. What are your duties as the captain of my personal guard?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 16, 2020, 06:36:22 pm
"The duty I'm here for today is the briefing for your pilgrimage today." He explains as you start to eat, watching you intently. "I've got the action plan ready, and we're set to go at nine."
[-]You eat as he speaks, and he has a map to show you, one that stretches out from the gate of the Holy City all the way westward, right to the edge of McCreary's lake.
"Any issues with this plan, Angel Alphira?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 16, 2020, 06:38:42 pm
"Yes, cancel it, effective immediately."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 16, 2020, 06:44:40 pm
I was just testing something. Never mind. Some food would do me well.+1
Post by: King Zultan on March 17, 2020, 07:39:05 am
Also Naturegirl your quoting an action from last turn.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 17, 2020, 08:51:17 am
It appears he accidentally forgot to mention the containment orders.whoops, sorry, why are we cancelling it? Didn’t we agree to the pilgrimage?
"Yes, cancel it, effective immediately."
I say the plan is good, participate I’m the pilgrimage
Post by: ZBridges on March 17, 2020, 03:52:29 pm
[20]Death is not the worse thing that can happen to a person. Whether that's an agreement or another confrontation is hard to determine, You still have much to learn. Do you need to go on that pilgrimage now or can you buckle down and actually practice instead of goofing off?
Post by: Superdorf on March 17, 2020, 04:25:45 pm
"Yes, cancel it, effective immediately."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 17, 2020, 04:28:28 pm
Alphira says we should skip it. We already can contact McCreary if we need to, who knows all about the battle, so I don't see the point of wasting time on it.Oh right[20]Death is not the worse thing that can happen to a person. Whether that's an agreement or another confrontation is hard to determine, You still have much to learn. Do you need to go on that pilgrimage now or can you buckle down and actually practice instead of goofing off?
How do we tell them?
We're gonna have some serious explaining to do, but for now+1"Yes, cancel it, effective immediately."
+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 17, 2020, 04:32:54 pm
How do we tell them?
Probably we just play it straight, with a healthy touch of the supernatural. Say that a vision of McCreary himself came upon us in the crypt of his relic, showing unto us his battle against the Great Worm. We need no longer look upon the battle's remnants; we have seen its unfolding first-hand!
Actually... explain this to the guard captain after we give the order to cancel. Better now than later.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 17, 2020, 05:21:05 pm
+1How do we tell them?
Probably we just play it straight, with a healthy touch of the supernatural. Say that a vision of McCreary himself came upon us in the crypt of his relic, showing unto us his battle against the Great Worm. We need no longer look upon the battle's remnants; we have seen its unfolding first-hand!
Actually... explain this to the guard captain after we give the order to cancel. Better now than later.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 17, 2020, 05:55:46 pm
"If that's all Angel Alphira, I'll take my leave."
What now?
Post by: ZBridges on March 17, 2020, 06:00:15 pm
“McGee Foster, James Foster, Johnathan Shellton, Jesse Hardhouse, Erica Hail, Amanda Silversmith, 'Other' Eric Armstrong, John Frost, Quincy Black.”
“Do you anticipate any logistical problems in following these orders?”
We should replace the guards loyal to SEED with ones loyal directly to us. They can infiltrate the Church and provide us with useful information, and I'd rather have them as our guards than agents of SEED dedicated to our “containment" and eventual murder.
Post by: Superdorf on March 17, 2020, 06:05:30 pm
"I am going to give you a list of names. If any of these individuals are currently Crusaders or training to be Crusaders, you will offer them a significant raise if they choose to train here, by my side. You will also integrate them into my personal guard, and you will select one of them to become your lieutenant."
“McGee Foster, James Foster, Johnathan Shellton, Jesse Hardhouse, Erica Hail, Amanda Silversmith, 'Other' Eric Armstrong, John Frost, Quincy Black.”
“Do you anticipate any logistical problems in following these orders?”
We should replace the guards loyal to SEED with ones loyal directly to us. They can infiltrate the Church and provide us with useful information, and I'd rather have them as our guards than agents of SEED dedicated to our “containment" and eventual murder.
Aw man, good call. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 17, 2020, 06:22:08 pm
"I regret it as well. Anything more, Mother?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 17, 2020, 06:31:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 17, 2020, 06:34:10 pm
"Nothing for the moment, thank you. I look forward to working with you to advance the Great Work."
+1
Assuming it's still dark out, let's try and get some rest then settle back into our routine come morning. Keep practicing our earth-shifting, when we get the chance.
Post by: ZBridges on March 17, 2020, 06:49:04 pm
+1"Nothing for the moment, thank you. I look forward to working with you to advance the Great Work."
+1
Assuming it's still dark out, let's try and get some rest then settle back into our routine come morning. Keep practicing our earth-shifting, when we get the chance.
Something else that may be useful, that perhaps we can spend our budget on, would be fixing up the suit and getting it in better shape.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 17, 2020, 07:23:34 pm
Train? And how so?
Post by: ZBridges on March 17, 2020, 07:27:14 pm
As for training, practice hydrogen manipulation and consider the possible applications of this power. Put some researchers on this task, if possible.
Post by: King Zultan on March 18, 2020, 02:26:42 am
I would recommend asking Emma, if she's up, to look into fixing up the [angel] suit, using the budget if necessary.+1
As for training, practice hydrogen manipulation and consider the possible applications of this power. Put some researchers on this task, if possible.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 05:20:36 am
You're going to have to come up with something, however.
[16] The scientists stare at you. They explain how the fusion reactors work but are confused otherwise. Apparently, by binding together certain 'isotopes' of hydrogen in a contained environment, they can produce energy, with a few byproducts, such as helium. This energy, in turn, heats elements within the reactor, which in turn, move micro-turbines, which generate electricity. Some older models of the reactor use water to turn turbines.
They, however, do tell you that they can quickly provide you with tanks and tanks of the stuff, should you need it for your experimentations, although they do warn you of...exploding it. As for how you can use it...they don't even know how your powers work, let alone how you could manipulate hydrogen to do what you need to do. The best guess they can provide is, "You can burn it, you can fuse it to release energy and radiation, and it's readily available."
They recommend a few chemistry and physics books but regret to inform you that only a few of them can understand how the fusion reactors work, as they were a gift from SEED. They have to follow maintenance procedures precisely as listed in the manual, and makeshift repairs to the machines are often decided against, and the devices are often just replaced outright.
[15]You speak to Emma, next, having caught her as she makes her way into her office in the morning. "...I can bring it down and store it in one of the empty training rooms, but the best I can do to help repair it is get the lower layer replaced with Kevlar-reinforced robes or a coat or something...I don't...know that much about armor repair. Sorry [angel]. I can start looking into pulling an armorsmith in for your team. One of the best. And some of those scientists might be able to study the metal."
She pulls a face, breathing a sigh, "I don't know how much they know about 'Void metal', though."
"The Thornton Scientist will be here tomorrow." She offers, "Maybe he can help? He had a couple of things he wanted to show you in terms of implants."
[-] Its mid-day, and after lunch when you step into the training room again. A young scientist scurries from the room as you approach, dipping a polite nod. He was studying the statue in the center of the track, and you aim to add another there today.
[2][7]You sit cross-legged on the tile floor, resting your hands on it and closing your eyes. You will it to change, to do something, anything, but nothing happens, except a brief headache that slowly fades. You heave a sigh, staring at the abstract creation you made last night.
[19][1]Your head throbs painfully, but you focus, reaching out with your willpower to trick the universe into doing what you want it to. You brute force the math, using only will, and the results are obvious. There is no graceful statue made, no flowing flowers-- a sharp spike of shiny, almost metallic grey stone shifts out of the floor, impaling into the air in front of you. Success, you roar internally, even as you collapse back onto the floor. Your face suddenly feels very moist, but your arms and legs aren't responding. Hunger burns your stomach despite the lunch you just ate.
One of the medical personnel has gently placed your head on a pillow and cleaned away the blood from your face. He sits beside you, and you realize that he has a few bowls of food for you. He checks to see if you have any more brain damage, making you follow the light, checking that you can feel all your fingers and toes--you notice, however, that when he pricks the tip of your pinky, that you don't feel it. You shake your head, rising with his assistance and devouring the nutrient paste he provides.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 05:46:19 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 05:54:10 am
How would you like to train today?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 06:24:32 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 18, 2020, 07:47:53 am
Attempt to control our Oferload, concentrating it into a smaller area+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 01:38:34 pm
[17] It works, you narrow what you can only describe as a shield of willpower around the beam, tightening it just around the tip of the barrel in the brief nano-second of time you have. The reactor discharges, and you smell smoke as the lens array burns. You expect to see a greater amount of light---
[2] But all you can see is the [5 inches] hole that is burned clearly through the target-- and the steel wall. You can see straight through it, to the outside. Luckily, this place must have been designed for such accidents, because you only see open sky. You hold the pistol until you sense all the energy has flowed out of it, and inspect it.
The coolant system is fried still, and the laser emitter is shattered beyond repair. Your security team is quick to go and check for injuries but find none. Surprisingly, you feel fine after that expenditure of energy. And the whole affair took no more than fifteen minutes out of your allotted time.
Two hours and forty-five minutes of training remaining.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: TamerVirus on March 18, 2020, 01:44:34 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 01:45:55 pm
Experiment with physical combat: can we channel our will into punches? Blades and clubs?+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 02:40:55 pm
[9][2]And nothing happens, besides a splitting headache that disorientates you, and causes your swing to go wide. You heave a sigh, straightening up and focusing again.
[2][13] Still, no luck. You're missing something, as your headache doesn't worsen and your punch still connects.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 02:42:53 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 03:07:16 pm
Attempt to create heat and fire from our outstretched hands.+1 try not burning ourself in the process
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 03:31:50 pm
A burning hot fire dances on your hand, and you reach out, touching the spike of grey metal that juts haphazardly from the floor. It begins to melt, dripping down in molten globs of slag that sizzle on the tile before rapidly cooling in the ambient air temperature. You lit it burn until the gray tip of metal is in a pool around the spike, finally shutting down the process by shutting your hand. With the reference point gone, the reaction stops.
[20]This feels familiar, like putting on a coat forgotten in the closet. Its a simple process, one that feeds itself, and, at times, your own energy expenditure is minimum. Perhaps there are other uses for this.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 03:34:07 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 03:35:15 pm
Attemot to meld metal into a glove+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 03:36:56 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 03:38:54 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 03:41:42 pm
By what process?By making multiple spikes and melding them together into a shape, by manipulating where the metal bends to be able to shape it
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 03:59:48 pm
[17]You begin to heat the metal, sparking the fires to life without much issue--
[8]But maintaining the fire and trying to manipulate this strange, glassy, shiny metal at the same time is too much for you to bear, and you begin to drift in and out of consciousness, even as you're surrounded by burning hot metal.
[18]You, wisely, cut off the heat, falling to lay on your back, lounging in the air that manages to penetrate your senses with its warmth. Your head throbs with aching pain, and your vision swims. A medical personnel waits on the edge of your vision, sweat beading on his forehead even as he pulls you away from the heat, to a cooler section of the room. There, he rests you on a pillow, wiping blood from your ears and speaking to you in a voice that you struggle to hear through the distance.
"Pheobe? Pheobe? Can you hear me?" You look at him, lifting a finger towards him, and he nods, he tilts your head back, "Alright, just keep breathing in and out, try to focus on my voice, okay?"
You do so, patiently, even as you try not to drift away into unconsciousness. Eventually, you're able to answer his questions to his satisfaction, and he and a guard rest you against a bench. They provide you with nutrient paste, which you force down past the rising nausea.
"Pheobe? Are you going to be okay?" The Medic seems at a loss for what to do, squeezing your shoulder gently even as you eat like a feral animal.
You have thirty minutes of training left, before your meeting with the Thornton Scientist.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 04:04:58 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 04:06:37 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 04:10:05 pm
"How is hydrogen used in the human body?"+1 (I believe it makes up water, so theoretically we could break the bones that make up water, drying a person out while burning them due to pure oxygen and pure hydrogen being very flammable. DO NOT ATTEMPT, just musing)
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 04:11:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 04:15:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 04:16:42 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 04:20:23 pm
"That isn't a threat, and I'm sorry if I startled you. I was just interested in the topic and thought you might be familiar with it."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 04:23:38 pm
"That isn't a threat, and I'm sorry if I startled you. I was just interested in the topic and thought you might be familiar with it."+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 04:25:09 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 04:43:53 pm
Let's focus on not scaring this guy out of his wits. We can always figure out what [demons] are made of later.ok, will delete addendum
Addendum deleted,
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 05:00:51 pm
You take a glance at the clock in the corner of the room, also taking note of the scientists who hastily scribble their notes on the other side of a glass panel. You breathe a sigh, turning out towards the door and heading to the assigned meeting room. It's a luxurious, by this world's standards, room, filled with a cypress wood table and chair set, that's been polished to a gleam. Emma sits with a man, who looks to be about William's age, that is to say, only a few years older than you. His hair is an unruly mop of dirty-blond, something noteworthy in this world of brunettes, and there's a gaunt look to his features. He simultaneously doesn't get enough sleep, food, or exercise.
"Ah, this must be her. Lady Alphira." He notices you through the glass, rising to his feet and tilting his head down, "It's quite a pleasure. I've heard great things from Emma and William. Although I'm sure that you have much more to show me. Emma was just going over the rules of the compound, but I'm sure she can catch me up to speed later, I would like you to see my lab, I haven't slept in a great while over the giddiness of working with a live [demon]."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 05:05:16 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 05:08:41 pm
"It's a pleasure to meet you, and I look forward to working with you, but it seems you have me at a disadvantage. What is your name? By all means, a tour of your lab would be lovely, but if you'd like to rest, that would be fine as well. Can you get me up to speed on what your background is?"+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 05:12:00 pm
"Now..."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, and I look forward to working with you, but it seems you have me at a disadvantage. What is your name? By all means, a tour of your lab would be lovely, but if you'd like to rest, that would be fine as well. Can you get me up to speed on what your background is?"
Say this.
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 05:15:03 pm
"I prefer [angel], if you would. A gentler name for a gentler purpose." (Smile.)+1
"Now...""It's a pleasure to meet you, and I look forward to working with you, but it seems you have me at a disadvantage. What is your name? By all means, a tour of your lab would be lovely, but if you'd like to rest, that would be fine as well. Can you get me up to speed on what your background is?"
Say this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 05:17:56 pm
Silas giggles in a very feminine way, "I'm far more practical in my pursuits. The Thornton's have...leased me to you. And to be blunt, I will be sending data back to my own laboratory that may be of use."
"I'll call you Lady Alphira, if it's all the same to you." Silas smiles. "But I will refrain from using either designation until proven otherwise."
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 05:19:38 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 05:24:37 pm
"Not a problem. Have you been briefed on our research goals here, and do you have a plan to achieve them?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 05:41:00 pm
Emma blinks, then takes the lead while Silas follows behind, close to you to continue the conversation. "I'm told you wish to experiment on yourself with implants to improve combat effectiveness. You intend to be fighting [the plague], which is no small task even for one with your abilities. From what I've read in the Thornton Family dossier on you, and the one the Scholar's provided; you have a great deal of regenerative ability, which may make the process incredibly simple or incredibly difficult."
"My first step in this process is to take baseline measurements, comparing you to a subject, a debt-slave I requisitioned, of similar age, build, and gender. Emma assures me you're a woman, so I'll take her word for it."
"After that physical baseline is established, we'll move forward from there. You have some resistance to the chemical effects of drugs if the Compound's medical reports are to be believed, but not a complete immunity. It may be as simple as raising the dosage or I might have to completely engineer an entirely new line of chemical compounds that work with your unique biology."
"Of course, these may be expensive, and I do not work for free, even if the materials are provided to me."
[-] The lab you step into is spacious, and, you notice with amusement, that is because somebody has haphazardly smashed down a wall into a nearby operating theater. A young woman in a grey jumpsuit sits nearby, and you notice, despite the difference in hair color, that she's of the approximate size and build to you currently. A strange mark is tattooed on her face in fading ink, the symbol of SEED. "Now, to be blunt, there are going to be a number of experiments conducted here that will injure you, but I'm sure you'll be fine. Please, have a seat." He gestures to a chair beside the one the other young woman sits on, and Emma looks uncomfortable, hanging back in the office portion of the lab. You notice a table with two glass slide on it, two very sharp scalpels, two crude metal syringes full of a clear, brownish liquid, and two bottles of a clear liquid.
"Or do you wish to see more work of mine to prove my point?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 05:46:36 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 05:48:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 05:50:47 pm
I don't feel great about this, to be honest.
Yeahhh.
"Let's make one thing clear, Silas: that woman is not to be permanently harmed, and she is to be released for her service here when this procedure of yours is through. I will pay extra to ensure this, if need be."
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 05:51:45 pm
+1I don't feel great about this, to be honest.
Yeahhh.
"Let's make one thing clear, Silas: that woman is not to be permanently harmed, and she is to be released when this procedure of yours is through. I will pay extra to ensure this, if need be."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 06:04:38 pm
"That's a tranquilizer commonly used for surgery, and the other is a bottle of ethanol. I will measure your resistance to chemical intoxication with both, but the bottle is for tommorow."
"Today, and for the next week, I will be performing the same operation on you both and many others like her; infection resistance, and how much your body rejects foreign bodies. If I had more time than two and a half months to get you ready, I could be more careful and methodical. Introduce an infection that we can easily cure, use a less dangerous procedure...so on. Of course, I could prevent that just by jamming as much as I can into you and hoping it sticks, but I'm told I can't break you, or I will be shot."
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 06:20:39 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 18, 2020, 06:23:05 pm
For that matter, what sort of augmentations are we going for right now? I'm not really sure what we're trying to accomplish here.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 06:26:24 pm
They know what they were getting into. We need to know. He was sent to do the experiments. Let’s do it
Post by: ZBridges on March 18, 2020, 06:26:46 pm
I'm probably going ro regret this, but...
Commence the experiment+1
They know what they were getting into. We need to know. He was sent to do the experiments. Let’s do it
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 07:33:28 pm
He washes his hands in steaming hot water, slowly applying some surgical garb. He approaches the young woman, picking up the uncovered syringe as he does so. With a slow draw, he puts less than a quarter of the liquid into her arm. With a scribbled note, he picks up the scalpel. He shakes her, gently, then roughly, satisfied with the lack of response, noting that down as well. With smooth, careful movements, he ties a tube around her arm after checking her pulse. He takes a sealed package from somewhere beside him, cuts it open, and then slices a sharp gash across her arm. Blood still trickles out on to the operating table, but he's quick, pulling the stainless steel fin-shaped object from the package and neatly pressing it into the incision.
With deft hands and nimble fingers, he stitches the wound shut and applies a dressing to it, threading through spokes on the object.
He observes his work before carefully removing his gloves. "Some help, please, either of you. I need her out of the way."
You rise, taking hold of her legs and settling her limp, unresponsive form on a nearby bed. He gently covers all but her arm with a blanket and then turns, cleaning off the operating table with a foul-smelling chemical, washing away the faint traces of blood. Then he undresses his surgical garb, throwing his dirty clothes into a trash bag nearby.
"You next, Lady Alphira. Hop up."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 07:39:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 08:04:47 pm
You wait a few moments, but nothing happens. With a nod, he depresses more of the liquid into you. Your consciousness begins to fade. Then he does it once more with a satisfied smile curling his lips beneath the mask. You drift off.
When you awaken, there's a blinding pain in your arm that's quickly shut off. You also have one of those weird spoke-fins jutting out of your forearm. Silas is at his desk nearby, hunched over a strange device. Emma is asleep in a chair near you. He looks surprised by you sitting up. "Ah, Lady Alphira, you're awake earlier than expected." He takes note in his scratch-pad.
The other girl, you notice, is still unconscious, her arm propped up and out of harm's way. "You are a very interesting organism, Alphira! I broke my needle trying to get a bone marrow sample, and your blood...well your blood is very, very aggressive to foreign pathogens. You don't even have white blood cells-- yours are black and very, very volatile. They die rapidly once they're removed from your system, though, even when preserving agents are applied."
"Now tell me, do you feel any pain?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 08:17:57 pm
Post by: TamerVirus on March 18, 2020, 09:08:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 18, 2020, 10:58:09 pm
"Now, you might want to leave before the debt-slave wakes up. I'm going to have to keep her on pain medicine for a while."
Nodding, you adjust the bandage wrapped around your new...implant, and wake up Emma, so you can leave. The two of you sleep separately, and you collapse into your comfortable bed for a night of rest.
[20] You sit in a classroom, listening to the teacher talk. Something boring about physics, about entropy, as if any of that matters. The class is, as always, respectful, silent, and...nearly empty. But you drift, staring out into inky blackness. Outside the window, a grey ball turns around a fading red star...
"Alphira, could you--"
"We're dead anyway. Why does any of this matter?!" The teacher stares at you in silence, then calls on another student.
You awaken, rubbing at your arm, which, you note, has healed around the injury fairly quickly, the surgical wound already scabbing over. You rise and get dressed, sitting on your bed and trying to figure out your day. You could probably sneak out before Emma comes to wake you up and get more training in, or you could wait and talk to her about what needs to be done.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 18, 2020, 11:10:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 12:03:00 am
attempt to train matter manipulation, this time get a liquid and try messing with that, similar to how we messed with metsl+1
In addition, if not completely spent by that test, attempt to create a self-propelling bolt of fire.
Post by: King Zultan on March 19, 2020, 07:59:44 am
+1attempt to train matter manipulation, this time get a liquid and try messing with that, similar to how we messed with metsl+1
In addition, if not completely spent by that test, attempt to create a self-propelling bolt of fire.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 11:24:25 am
[15]On a whim, and in a well ventilated area, you separate out the hydrogen from it, and try to push it forward while igniting it.
[7]It's hard to control once it leaves a certain radius of your body, but it ignites in a small ball of fire and water droplets. It's a possibility, you realize, but it's difficult to keep your focus as it moves further away from.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 12:40:41 pm
Let's wait a bit, take a minute to touch base with Emma. Do we still have that folder the Pontifex gave us to look over?
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 02:04:53 pm
Water has a lot of hydrogen in it... we might be well served to practice this further. Think of the power we could hold over a proper body of water!+1
Let's wait a bit, take a minute to touch base with Emma. Do we still have that folder the Pontifex gave us to look over?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 03:04:29 pm
[12 vs 9] A rush of anger consumes you, and you feel your powers react instinctively, violently. You focus on breathing, on repeating your mantra to yourself to reaffirm just who you are and what you're doing. Your blood boils with barely contained rage.
Quote from: Angel of Fire Containment Procedures
...primary containment agent of Project Angel of Fire, also known as Alphira, Pheobe Gainer, is two-fold. Emma Thornton of the Thornton Family is a high-value emotional connection to the target. Primary containment is to secure and hold Emma Thornton in the event of Alphira losing control, destroying vital property with ill intent, possession of weapons not signed off on, and any hostile action or words directed at SEED. Should Alphira violate these procedures, its is to be made clear to her that Emma Thornton's future survival will be in jeopardy should such actions persist. Further action will be taken as needed, up to termination of both Emma and the Project...
...Secondary containment is the holding of myself, Nicole Gainer, as a hostage to ensure her good intentions should Primary Containment methods fail...see appendix section eight for further details as to my relationship with the subject...Emma Thornton has a higher emotional connection to the subject, so great caution should go into retaining her and keeping her close to the Holy City.
[-]Somebody knocks at your door, and you stow the folder away back beneath your folded uniform, your hands falling into tightly balled fists at your side, your knuckles pale from the force. Emma steps in, looking bedraggled and tired, but happy to see you. "I've brought the armor down, and I've got a great armorsmith looking at it. Captain Zachary also reports that several of our previous classmates have been selected to be in your personal guard-- he's waiting for you outsi-- is everything okay, Pheobe?" Her smile drops, concern appearing on her features, "Is your arm okay-- I swear, if Silas made you sick, I'll shoot him myself!"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 03:08:07 pm
Wordlessly show her the folder.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 03:09:48 pm
At this point, I'm tempted to join the demons.+1
Wordlessly show her the folder.
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 03:14:47 pm
At this point, I'm tempted to join the demons.
Wordlessly show her the folder.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 03:23:17 pm
"Wh-what does it say?" She steps closer, setting the folder back down for you and wrapping you in a tight hug, "It isn't good, is it?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 03:26:14 pm
"Speak softly and don't react. They can't be allowed to know that we're onto them."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 03:26:50 pm
Write it out for her in a script that she's familiar with.+1
"Speak softly and don't react. They can't be allowed to know that we're onto them."
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 03:27:57 pm
Write it out for her in a script that she's familiar with.+1
"Speak softly and don't react. They can't be allowed to know that we're onto them."
Another +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 03:40:51 pm
Emma wraps you in a sudden tight hug, breathing in and out hard, before carefully and quickly whispering, right in your ear, something that sends chills up your spine, "Did it come from a trustworthy source? It matches why the guard tried to grab me, and the Pontifex intervened. Black Nicky is a brutal pragmatist, and the script is a higher level." She kisses your cheek and pulls away, taking a seat on your bed, trying to speak more casually.
"Time for love later, Pheobe." She gives a forced giggle, smiling through her teeth as she carefully twists the conversation towards the soldiers under your direct command. "We have to prepare for war. William...William wants to advertise something, and promises soldiers good enough to take on a fully grown [insect] on their lonesome. It would be well within your powers to approve them as part of your command."
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 03:44:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 03:51:19 pm
"That sounds promising. I will be sure to discuss the matter in depth with him"
(say this.)
Closer now: "The file-- it came direct from the Pontifex. More on that later... but don't kill grandma on my behalf, hey? She's gone through a lot lately." (Smile thin.)
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 03:54:35 pm
"Hm? Oh. Yeah--"+1"That sounds promising. I will be sure to discuss the matter in depth with him"
(say this.)
Closer now: "The file-- it came direct from the Pontifex. More on that later... but don't kill grandma on my behalf, hey? She's gone through a lot lately." (Smile thin.)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 03:59:18 pm
[14 vs 7] You realize all at once-- Alphira isn't here. She isn't fanning the flames. This is your anger, pure and simple. No voice besides your own, no emotion artificially induced. This is all you this time. For some reason, this thought comforts you, and you tamp down on the anger for later, holding that energy back within yourself.
"Would you trust him?" Emma doesn't continue, shaking her head softly, "The armorsmith wants to meet you, and the Captain has been waiting for fifteen minutes now. I'm feeling a little petty, so I'm willing to make him wait a lot longer, but you do have a team to run, and exercises to do..."
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 04:03:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 04:06:40 pm
Take a minute or ten. This was painful.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 04:13:27 pm
"Permission to speak freely, Mother Alphira?" He's still in a half-bow, his hands lifted slightly away from the pistol and knife at his side. His palms up, facing towards you, showing you he's unarmed, you realize all at once.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 04:15:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 04:16:32 pm
"Granted."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 04:19:58 pm
"There are some within my ranks that do not hold the same belief, and there are some who do. Please dispose of the file when you're finished."
Zachary straightens slowly as if expecting a blow to fall. "That is all."
Emma doesn't change her expression, besides a darkening of her brow.
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 04:23:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 04:26:38 pm
"Thank you for your dedication to your duty, captain. I will keep that in mind."
+1
Special emphasis on "thank you".
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 04:31:13 pm
Take up and incinerate the procedural file with a quick Inferno.+1"Thank you for your dedication to your duty, captain. I will keep that in mind."
+1
Special emphasis on "thank you".
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 04:38:13 pm
"I always hated power politics, but no man rules alone." The two of you lapse into a comfortable silence as you contemplate the ashes and Emma stares at the door. Eventually, she claps her hands, snapping you out of your reverie, "We'll be going to see the armorsmith next, Pheobe. Or do you want to spend the day in bed? At this point, either works for me." You note her defiance and the hand on her belt, where her holster would be, if she had one.
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 04:44:57 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 04:47:01 pm
"I still fully intend to deal with the demons. Please send them in."the pronoun game, who is the them here? Cuz it sounds like referring to the demons, which I very much doubt to be the case
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 04:49:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 04:51:13 pm
Also edited my post for clarity. <.<what edit? It was clear enough and I don’t notice any changes
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 04:52:03 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 05:04:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 05:04:54 pm
Sigh. "Armor is good. I'll be needing armor."
Rise. Let's go see what this smith can do.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 05:09:19 pm
Sigh. "Armor is good. I'll be needing armor."+1
Rise. Let's go see what this smith can do.
...You'll be going to see they, them, it, as opposed to them visiting you. <.<i thought this, so the first suggestion confused me a bit
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 05:18:30 pm
lol
The armory is on one of the lower floors, in a previously vacant workshop in the complex. Its been outfitted with many things, you realize, anvils, molds, cooling basins of oil, and various other workbenches you cannot identify. A woman as old as your grandmother is sitting in the middle of the room, staring at the golden armor of McCreary while hunched over and rubbing her face. She looks even less happy when she sees you approach, rising to give a small bow, "Mother Gainer...I was...I was-- I can't do anything with this."
She takes one of the pauldrons off, and tosses it into a blazing hot furnace. Nothing happens. That faint, golden color and black underlay doesn't seem to heat up, or change shape, or warp like any metal you've seen. "This is one of the most powerful furnaces ever made-- and it does jack shit. I can't even bend the damn thing. The best I can do to fit it to you is pad the places where you need it when I'm making your uniform for under the armor, but...where do I even start with that? What is the impression you want to give? How armored do you want it? Do you want it a certain color? Robe or coat? Do you want a cape or something? "
The armorsmith slumps back down, staring at the armor, "You're the same height as McCreary, at least. Same chest size...you might have to pack in your chest a bit to fit... His arms were bigger, by the looks of the thing, but I can adjust the straps here and there...legs were about the same..."
Emma facepalms, rubbing the bridge of her nose and sighing loudly. The armorsmith's eyes narrow, but she doesn't retort, finally explaining, "I can fit you into it, but it's going to be uncomfortable, and a little bit encumbering. As for the gun, its totaled, but I can make you a new one to whatever specifications you want. The Cutter hilt still works...I've already refitted it for a standard las-pistol magazine."
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 05:20:40 pm
I made everything worse, I'm so sorry. :'(
lol
Days upon days of blisteringly-paced updates, you're gonna slip up once or twice. Don't worry about it. ;)
Now then... a uniform! What fun. Let's go for a bit of elegance, a bit of flash-- but with a nice practical underpinning.
"McCreary's armor is not of this earth, Sister! If we can't work it, we can't work it." (Smile reassuring-like.)
"As for the uniform... black and gold, like the armor. Flame-retardant. Room to move, armor plating where reasonable. No cape-- capes burn-- but perhaps a short cloak, with a kevlar face-mesh and a nice stone at the clasp."
"Dignity... power. These are the things I must convey, Sister, if I am to be a champion for these people."
EDIT: The post, it has been edited on me! Addendum then :))
Give the armorsmith a moment to note our words, then: "Now. I may have a somewhat... unusual request for the firearm. Join me a moment on the firing range?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 06:09:27 pm
+1” would moment in this case be 5 seconds? 10 seconds? More? Less? Or am I simply overthinking it?I made everything worse, I'm so sorry. :'(
lol
Days upon days of blisteringly-paced updates, you're gonna slip up once or twice. Don't worry about it. :P
Now then... a uniform! What fun. Let's go for a bit of elegance, a bit of flash-- but with a nice practical underpinning.
"McCreary's armor is not of this earth, Sister! If we can't work it, we can't work it." (Smile reassuring-like.)
"As for the uniform... black and gold, like the armor. Flame-retardant. Room to move, armor plating where reasonable. No cape-- capes burn-- but perhaps a short cloak, with a kevlar face-mesh and a nice stone at the clasp."
"Dignity... power. These are the things I must convey, Sister, if I am to be a champion for these people."
EDIT: The post, it has been edited on me! Addendum then :))
Give the armorsmith a moment to note our words, then: "Now. I may have a somewhat... unusual request for the firearm. Join me a moment on the firing range?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 06:09:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 06:36:40 pm
[17] Something needles at the edges of your perception about the armor. Something about it isn't right.
Regardless, you approach the Crusader Armorer, who doesn't work on armor, confusingly, and he lets you look over the selection. Most of the guns he lets you use, in particular, are worn and beaten, but come in many varieties, from Hellfire Shotguns, the Crusader Modular Assualt Rifles, to the scrappy workman's automatic las-rifle, fresh off the streets and marked for destruction. He has all the firearms you could ever hope to destroy. It was a bright touch by Emma, you remember, to save money. Any gun marked for destruction due to advanced age or contraband status would be brought in, and either disposed of on-site or you would destroy them during your testing.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 07:12:27 pm
Open our mind a bit and consider: what's off about the armor? Is Alphira trying to tell us something?
Pick out a cheap pistol with a clip around half empty, and find somewhere we won't cause any collateral damage with an Overload.
"In my travels, Sister, I have learned a rather destructive trick with the common reactor pistol and its larger counterparts-- devastatingly effective, but ruinous to the weapon so used. Stand well behind me, both of you, and observe..."
Let our compatriots make some distance. Pick a safe target. Overload. Fire.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 09:26:20 pm
Okay so. If anyone thinks this is a really stupid thing I'm suggesting we do... do me a favor and speak up now.+1
Open our mind a bit and consider: what's off about the armor? Is Alphira trying to tell us something?
Pick out a cheap pistol with a clip around half empty, and find somewhere we won't cause any collateral damage with an Overload.
"In my travels, Sister, I have learned a rather destructive trick with the common reactor pistol and its larger counterparts-- devastatingly effective, but ruinous to the weapon so used. Stand well behind me, both of you, and observe..."
Let our compatriots make some distance. Pick a safe target. Overload. Fire.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 09:33:30 pm
[-] As you pick out your pistol, you note with a sick sense of pride that the steel wall, used to often to protect the concrete from laser blast, has been outfitted with sandbags since your last time here. You find your target, aiming down the cheap 'iron' sights.
[13]You reach out with your will, into the pistol, and pull the energy up through the reactor, just as you pull the trigger. You narrow the path of the beam minutely, and half the target is incinerated away into burning ash. The pistol, while not as damaged as your previous attempts, still drips molten plastic on the floor, the focusing barrel completely turned into a smoldering mess. The display flashes 'err' and you hand what's left to the Armorer.
[-]"Well, that certainly...is a problem I can consider for you. Probably a better focusing barrel design, one designed for easy replacement, more coolant systems, and a newer reactor. Oh, and plenty of spare lenses...you intend to be fighting [the plague]? McCreary's gun was a submachine style with a lot of power. It used a rifle magazine but was optimized for closer quarters, and to be used in combination with another weapon. Had a lot of magazines too...I'm assuming the weight ain't going to be an issue."
[-]Alphira is silent, as she has been for a while now.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 09:40:27 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 09:41:02 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 09:42:04 pm
It's possible that the armor is trapped, set to disable us once we complete our task.that’s no way to treat someone who saves the city from the plague...
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 09:42:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 09:45:47 pm
Agreed. SEED is not as virtuous as these people seem to think.Yes
No wonder we tried to kill him in the past
How will we fight the plague without the armor? Will we fight the plague?
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 09:46:46 pm
As we're headed back to the armorer's: "I didn't catch your name, by the by?"
Do we still feel something off about the armor?
A worthy distinction. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 09:53:44 pm
You smile, offering "You already know mine. It's a pleasure, Daughter McFee."
"Likewise, Ange-- Mother Gainer. Sorry, I couldn't do much more for the armor, but, as you said, it's a bit out of my area of expertise." The three of you enter the workshop, and you approach the armor on the stand as she explains how she plans on padding certain places with cloth and little bits of plastic, to help take some of the weight off. She goes quite in depth, and you listen intently, dragging your eyes across the pristine breastplate and polished helmet. Nothing jumps out at you, and you examine the inside of it very carefully, running your hands across the strangely cool material-- there's no traps or anything of the sort. You lean back, frowning.
The metal itself is very weird, cool to the touch, even the piece that was previously in the roaring furnace. Looking at one from the edge, you can see faint differences in the hues of darkness, culminating in one that seems to absorb the light at the middle layer.
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 10:06:59 pm
"Thank you for your aid, Daughter McFee."
Having made the proper thank-you-goodbyes: breakfast! After that... we'll have to consider.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 10:15:42 pm
"I shall consider the matter... perhaps I can come up with something. It's lovely armor."+1
"Thank you for your aid, Daughter McFee."
Having made the proper thank-you-goodbyes: breakfast! After that... we'll have to consider.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 10:34:40 pm
"The flavor grows on you, after a while. It stops tasting like greasy cardboard, and more like salty cardboard."
Emma snorts at that, taking another bite of her meal. "I don't think I've got anything else planned for today, besides paperwork."
[20][19]It hits with the burning headache that sears its way through your skull, until it fades. A͍̬͔̫͜c̭͉̙ç͇̠͙̯̲̙̼͢o҉͝͏̰̹͈̟̖r̝̫̟d̯̲̤̳i̴̬̰̬̗̤̯̼͈n̶͚͙̼͓͔͍̞̭̗͞g̫͡ ̵̵̺̼̯͖̀ṭ̰̰̹̙̥ͅo҉̳̯̖̲̳̜̱̼͜ ̡̪̞a̕҉̥͚̭͓̟̀ͅv̼̙a̟̰̦̻̯͖̜i̝̤ͅl̫̻̭͢a҉̟̳͓͇b̝̞̦̲̻̼͢l͉̩̗̤̞͜è͕͍͖̫̥̹͉͈̕ ̦̟̬̲͕͎͉ḑ̡͚͎̯̲̲̗́a͝͏͈͍͉̞́t̶̬̕a̲̮:͖̰̬͓̟́M̧̟̤̙̞̜͚͎̦͇͜c̰̻̜͖̠̘͓͎C̢҉̵̘͈r̖̤͖̝͖̬e̶̖̰̹̩̥͍̲͞a̶̻͔͙̕r̶͡҉̳̘͓͔̭͕y̧̨̳̥̲͎'̵̪͎̭̠͙͉͔̠͘s̛̯̣͓͡ͅ ̵͈͍̠̖̤̣̺͔̳͠c̡̟̘͈̜̥̘͔̥h̶̪̫͇̭̣̟̘̹e̵̟͖̭̹ͅs̡̫̞͈͈͇̻̰͔͚͟t̶̤̣̺ ̫̟p̢̟͉̼͎͓͕͙͡ļ̢͓̱̬̖̲͇̘̝͠a͏̮͓̗̬̥͍t̡̺̹̟̣̣̲̦͉é̦̩̫͡ ҉̶͈͉̫̬̫̦w̝̦͍̣̜a̢̗͓̻̹͡s̢̝̯̩͟ ̬͍̀͘r̵̲̻̲̤̟͘ͅe̛̞̱͚͔̮͢p̳̥͎à̠i̙̝̥̫̙͞ͅr͇͞e͕̦d͏́҉̣ ̥̳̯̥̙͙̫͠a͖͇̦̻̣̘͘f̺̜̬̳ț͓̩͞͠e̙̣r̸҉̷̦̺̫͖͙ ̛̤̩͓h̡̹̝̭͖i̥̠̖͉̜͎̜̩s̡̛͓̗͙̝ ͡҉̩͚͕̱b̨̲̣̠̬̟̲͉̙a̴͎͉̙̰̤̜̙͈̥͝t̸̙̞͉̯̼̻t͈͉́͜͠ĺ͕̠͖e̴̡͈͙̣͉̖͎̟.̶̨̦̞̟̟̦
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 10:37:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 10:40:17 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 10:42:30 pm
Sorry to bother you, Alphira, but do you know how this armor can be repaired?
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 10:53:29 pm
...
"...one of my voices just looked up some data for me. Somebody fixed that chestplate up after McCreary got it slashed up in his last fight... dunno who."
"That means somebody maybe still could though. Think I'll try and get more answers, once my head doesn't hurt so much..."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 10:54:58 pm
"Hnnn"+1
...
"...one of my voices just looked up some data for me. Somebody fixed that chestplate up after McCreary got it slashed up in his last fight... dunno who."
"That means somebody maybe still could though. Think I'll try and get more answers, once my head doesn't hurt so much."
Ah I see, thanks.-1 remember we promised we wouldn’t call her unless we needed her?
Sorry to bother you, Alphira, but do you know how this armor can be repaired?
Post by: Superdorf on March 19, 2020, 10:58:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 11:27:02 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 11:29:35 pm
I think we should investigate this further with the VOID while we can. In the past, we weren't able to communicate with it any time at will. Getting the armor back to 100% could be lifesaving.ok, what should we say?
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 11:31:28 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 11:34:52 pm
H̵o̶w̴ ̴c̵a̴n̴ ̶t̴h̵i̸s̴ ̷a̷r̶m̸o̴r̴ ̸b̸e̶ ̸r̴e̴p̵a̵i̸r̶e̴d̶?̴+1 how is Zalgo text done?
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 11:36:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 19, 2020, 11:40:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 19, 2020, 11:53:42 pm
She shrugs a shoulder, leaning over the table to give you a chaste peck on the lips, retreating out the cafeteria and towards her office. You watch her leave, before rising, clearing away your dishes and thinking about what your next move is. You have an entire day, with only a little bit of tutoring from Brother Hop in the evening.
What would you like to do?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 19, 2020, 11:55:37 pm
Try to get an audience with SEED.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 12:00:57 am
You know... SEED would probably know how the armor was repaired.sure, but I think SEED is the enemy?
Maybe we should rest
Post by: King Zultan on March 20, 2020, 07:56:59 am
Also I doubt the SEED would talk to us again so soon.
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 10:14:10 am
For now, a lie-down sounds nice. Just gotta make sure we don't miss our tutoring-- maybe set an alarm.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 11:18:39 am
[-] Midway through your nap, there's a knock at your door. Silas steps in, performing a small physical and taking notes on your arm. He doesn't offer much by way of conversation, besides useless pleasantries. With his job done, he leaves you, reading over his notes with a detached air.
[-] After five hours, you're fully rested, and your headache has subsided some.
You have six hours before your lesson with Brother Hop.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 12:05:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 12:06:10 pm
Lunch. After that let's hit the books, see if we can't find anything on McCreary's equipment.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 02:15:57 pm
You, with two guards in tow, walk to one of the libraries nearby in the Inner City, through a beautiful plaza, with carefully manicured gardens. A thin young man with a brand for SEED on his face trims down an overgrowing patch of flowers as children kick a rubber ball back and forth. You notice a small group of Crusaders drift through. They catch sight of you, confused by your guards and your under-ornamented self, but don't comment, passing by with a dipped nod given your way. The walk itself is pleasant and a short, gentle ride on one of the slow-moving hover-crafts rounds out the experience. In all, it took you thirty minutes to get to the Library.
The Library is another one of those buildings with a high domed ceiling, and a librarian greets you at the door. They serve as living indexes, and you ask him for books, treatises, or manuscripts involving McCreary's armor. They look at a reference book, and begin to guide you into the depths of the library. He points at a shelf of books, and bows his head as he explains, "This shelf contains what books we have on McCreary, as for a specific topic, we lack McCreary's Armor."
With a nod, he turns away to attend to other duties. You enlist the help of your guards and clear out the entire shelf, bringing it to one of the desks in the center of the library.The Effect of McCreary on Morale, Armaments of the Angel, McCreary's Sacrifice, Strength of Soul: Or how to Emulate the Angel, How The Tide Turned, and Stories to tell Children of the Angel.
The first one interests you, so you set it aside for later, the second one is more pressing, so you pile it away. The rest are hymn books, scripture, a quasi-historical document that you know is false, and the other is tall tale-- but a passage in the children's book hints at the truths of your memory, so you set it aside to keep. You have your guards put the rest away, and begin to read the first.
Quote from: Effects of McCreary on Morale
...And lo', when the war was at its worst, and all hoped seemed lost, when the King of the Dead and his armies approached the gates of the Holy City, man did despair... It goes on to list all the losses, the cities you've never heard of that no doubt are ruins by now.
Then McCreary emerged from the Citadel of Seed, clad in resplendent gold. SEED spoke, issuing a benediction to its holy angel of war, It lists a great edict from SEED that you gloss over, yadda yadda, retribution and revenge shall be delivered, demons stand no chance now, etc. However, one line catches your eye, "I shall see retribution done on all my enemies, they shall be starved and beaten, destroyed in their entirety. So I will it."
It goes into great detail about how the morale of all troops improved, especially by his speeches delivered on the battlefield, full of rage and fire, and how during each of his consecutive victories the people cheered his name in the streets. In some benedictions, he was listed first. You wonder if he was more relatable for the humans of this world than the Machine God they worship...
Quote from: Armaments of McCreary
This manuscript is a list of his armor and weapons in flowery terms, recorded directly after his death. It mentions no damage upon the breastplate or any of the other armor. It does list damage done to the underpinning, his synth-leather jumpsuit is mentioned as being ripped across the chest, and stained with dried blood. His firearm was empty-- and you note that he had expended nearly two thousand las-pulses during the time he fought, if not more.
Quote from: Children's Book
...McCreary's armor was mighty indeed, burnished in gold and black, but pure, and filled with the flame of righteousness, and he spoke of it as one speaks of a friend, one that was very close to his heart...some say it even spoke back! So great is the power of SEED, that even the inanimate is made living through his grace...
You have three hours and thirty minutes left before Brother Hop arrives at your room for your lesson.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 03:00:23 pm
Perhaps we might find something here on the origins of SEED and of [demons]. Be sure to leave ourselves time to head back and meet Brother Hop.
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 03:12:28 pm
Attempt to communicate with the armor.
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 03:26:43 pm
The armor spoke back...?
Attempt to communicate with the armor.
We're not wearing it at the moment, but perhaps we might have ourselves a look-see after Brother Hop's lesson.
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 03:27:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 03:29:49 pm
Attempt to communicate with the armor.
Eh, fair enough. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 04:25:29 pm
Sister McFee dips you a nod when you enter, and you see her hunched over bulky red and black cloth, a large needle in her mouth. Beside her, a soldering iron smolders gently, and the entire room smells of solder and melted plastic.
You approach the armor stand, and...try to communicate with it. You speak a greeting to it and try in the tongues you do know. You even speak in the halting, old tongue of SEED. McFee finally speaks up, "Thornton told me you were eccentric, but if that armor could talk, I'm sure it wouldn't have liked how much I've been cursing it."
[7]You frown at her, but stay silent, examining the armor. It doesn't look like its communicating back.
You have two hours and forty-five minutes left before Brother Hop arrives at your room for your lesson.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 04:30:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 04:36:42 pm
Drop into our own mind for a moment. Dip into McCreary's armor memories, and if that doesn't get us anywhere...
"McCreary, did you talk to your armor?"
...let these words echo through our consciousness.
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 04:38:13 pm
"...You're right. I'm going about this wrong."+1
Drop into our own mind for a moment. Dip into McCreary's armor memories, and if that doesn't get us anywhere..."McCreary, did you talk to your armor?"
...let these words echo through our consciousness.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 05:20:59 pm
Ne̶̠̳̲̜͇r̗̲͔͘v͈̖͢ò͉̦̮ú͖͉̬s͚͔̰̗͍ͅ ̺̝S̸͉͕yst̸̟e̢̘̜̠̝̮̰mͅ:͓̺ ̘͚̜͍̺̘͙͝A̱̖̘̱̻̗͖̕c̟͈͓̫͙͠t̷͍̰͔͔̺̗ͅi̬̤v̞̟͝a͢t̢̼̹e̠͘ͅ ̸̪u̟͚̭̺̳̝̱n̫̻̱͚̭̺̠c̖͓̣̠̟o̹͘n̘̪c̪̦̺̺̺͙̕i̶̲̩̟̞̭͔͓o̹̼̦͎u̱̩ṣ̯̯̙ ̥̬͖̜b̲͇̦͓͇as̰͔̭͎̻̯i̸̦c̠̳͓̗̗͔ ̫̭̼l͞i̹̻̬f̰͉͜e̯̹̪ ̝͉s̤͇̞̥̰̮̀u͙̹p̙̤̭͎͢p̧̱or̀t̝̼͘
You open your eyes again, and you lay in the sand, feeling the burning hot grains against your back with a vividness that not even boiling water can match. The wind howls across the wastes, carving through mesas and plateaus. Two suns burn high in the sky, filling you with warmth. A vessel sits nearby, smaller than some, but larger than any Hovercraft you've ever seen. Red sand and white salt pile up around its landing struts.
You rise to your feet with a yawn, hand coming to your mouth as you make your way to the vessel. You key in a code instinctively, stepping into the cool metal airlock. The mechanical door shuts behind you, and you close your eyes as various hues of light blink through the room. Fresh air, humid and smelling of your new home is vented in, hiding the familiar dusty scent of your previous life.
You check a small console only to find no new messages and busy yourself with a jog around the track, then a number of isometric exercises. With your exercise done for the day, you--why do I have a beard? Where am I? Who--
[17][18] You open the door to the armory and step through, towards the Mark Fifteen. With humorous intent long gone, replaced by the ritual of a lonely man, you ask, "Having a good day? Wonderful. I'm glad you slept well, but you're going to be able to wake up soon." It didn't really respond, it never did, not until those sickening spikes were deep into the tips of his fingers. Then it spoke. It spoke of war. Of nightmare. Of a bloodlust more ancient than civilizations. It didn't speak until they were one, joined together into a brutal war machine.
What was worse was how he could already feel his hand slipping into the glove. You can stop at anytime, you reason, content. This is your history, you past lives and your future, why shouldn't you want this connection? You have no others. They all left you alone. But its been there for you, all this time, and will be there for you, all this time.
O̿͊͗̋҉̺̩̟̟̻̻͇̯̪̗̱̗̫̰̺́v̸̢͍̻͉͓̞̝̤̙͙̯̮͖̭̝̱̄ͧ̓̊ͯ̎̇̓̚ę̸̸̗̲̙͙̪̗̥̥̈́̒̏̅̌ͮrͮ̑̃̀ͮͤ̎҉̴̱̬̪͖͖̝͖͇͟r̶̨̼̥̫̭͕͆̍ͪ̈͗̃̎ͧ̑͗͒͟͞͠ḯ̴̧̛̹̭̱̦̯ͦ̏ͯ̎̈́ͦͭ͊̿́ͫ̓d̷̷̢̻̤̞̪̠̼̫ͮͫͯͣ̏͋ͧͨ͢ȇ̴̺̰̟͚̼ͯͧͧ͌ͭ͛͊ͭͮ̏̂ͤͫ́ ̢ͨ̄̇ͧ́̒ͧͪ͑͛̀͏́҉̛̠̯̬͓͙͙̖̙̖̻̗͈̘̻̦̖A̶̢̢̛̜͍̗̥̼̞̭̳̝͉̹̤̙̟͚̓̈́ͧ̽̒̃̄́c͆ͯ̈́͆͛͛ͪ͂̃ͣͩ̍͌͝͏̧͢͏̮̙̪̟t́ͪ̏͋̅́҉̧̧̡̛̪̳͔̬iͫͯ͑ͬ̒̍̉̇ͥͬ̑ͬ̿̀̚҉̧̣̝̟̞̺v̧͖̱̮̖͔̘̖̦̜̠̇́̇ͧ̔̾͂͊̓ͤͥ̊̄̊̾͂ͩ̐͡à̶̵͓͓̥̗̖̫͎̳̯͕ͯ̈́̿ͩ͂͒ͬͣ̐̒̑͆̓̅́̚̕͠ṯ̝͙̱͓͔̱͙̘̣̯̰͒͑ͥ̐̀͢͟ė̸̵͔͖̤͕̥̙͔̩̿̉̆̈̒͊ͥ̔ͭ̊̔̾̓̚͞͝d̆ͥͬͯ̎̑̿ͧ͊̓͌ͤͨ̽̅́҉̮̲͍̱̘̯̞͚͉̹̤̩̱̪̯͎̕͜ ̴̶̴̧̞͎̜͔͎̣͔̐ͧ͋ͥ͡-̥͉̺͖̗̖̟͚̫̪͎̘ͭ̿͌ͧ̑̈́̊̽͜͡-̵̼̭̥͚̙̟̼̯̥͈̪̗̳̱͚͚̪̆̋̐̅ͥͤ̎͑̋͌ͥͪ̊̐ͦ͂ͤͅ ̴̡̝͈̤̲̯̪͈̦ͭ̆̆͋͛̈̑̇͐̏̀̅̃͊̑M͇͔̞ͭ̉ͩͪ́͢͠c̈ͦ̈̍͋̒ͥ͆̽̑̔̔͏͏̯͉̖̬͠Ç̪̻̥͚͕͔̹͇̏̑͒̑͑̅́̀̚͢͡ŗ̗̮̜̖̻͕̫ͤͨͯ̉̽ͨ̀ͥ̅̍̕e̵̴̷̳̦͖̦̞̓͌͋̐̄̔̋̅͒̾̄̈́̏͞a̧͆͗͗͂͋͒̄ͤ̃̉ͥ̔͑ͪͦ́҉̢̧̥͈̻̱̺̮̱̺̪͖͉͙͉͟r̃̂ͭ́̚҉̶̢̣̖͍̳̻̻͙̣̙̫̦̦̠̙ͅy̛͚̟͓̳ͣ̾ͧ̓̅̃̐͊̏͑ͥ̔ͮ͗́̚͢͜͠.̈́̇͛́ͩ͏͏͚͇͎̝
[12][2]Your hand slips into the glove, and despite your nose dripping blood on the floor, despite McFee trying to pull you away, you activate your powers, focusing on those tiny little atoms of metal that stick out into the fingers of the gloves, connected into impossible chains of...of...madness? No element, no molecule, no matter can be that compact, that complex, that-- spikes slip deep into the tips of your fingers, into the bones.
But despite the promise, you don't feel whole. Just wrong. Th-this isn't right. This connection... but the glove, once loose, now feels like a second skin, tightening around your hand and digging more needles into your bones. A shiver runs down your spine, as you feel disgusted with it, with yourself, with everything, and you grip your arm hard. You strain, hearing your elbow pop, hearing your sinews and muscles start to come apart as you desperately try to rip your---his arm off at the elbow--
[14+3 vs 7]
I̠͇̰̝ͅm̶̘̭̝̯̻͎p̴̟̯̻̼r̰̰͎o̦̞̹p̘̬e̞̼͔̦̖̝r̙̲͖͔̦͈ ͔͔͕̞̫̜Á̝̭̳͇̣̜̗r͕̤̭͟ͅm̘͎̭͍͔͚o͍͙̣͖̟̭r̮̤̼̙̭ ͚͓̭͞F͠i̹̝͢t̸̩̲t̼͙̖i҉̱͓̬̦̮̰̦n͈̱g̯͓̮:͕ ̧̳͈Ú̝̯̫̦̩͕̲s͔̠̥i̖n̘̕g̥̭̟̠ ̢d̗͍̱̦̰̖̳͝e̗s̴̳i̯͓̝͓̝̥̕g͖̯̹n͉̭̭̬at̲̤̤̜͕̕ͅi͖̩o̝n̛͎͍̠̣̖͇ ̲̙͎M̭̙͍c̫͉̖̱̘̖͇C͓͙̤̼͓̝͘r̷͔e̠̯̱͓̤̝̤͟a̜͈͙r͈̜̪̻͘y͉̻͔̣ ̨̱̠̼̪͓̥s͖̩̠̻i͎͉g̢̝͈̩̫n̗̯a͎̻̭̫̣ͅt҉͈͉̞͎u̖̩̥̙̤͜r͏e̤̗̪̲̼͍ ̜ͅt̖͚̦̪̟̮͔o̝̥̱̤͎͕͙ ͡i̛̲̺̭͈͎̠ͅn̻̮͙̺̘ṭ̰̭͇̣̰ͅe̩̯r̻͚f̢̹a͉̜̫͝ͅc̞͎͖̫͈͍̞e̞̖̺̞.͇͍̪
̪i̴n̘̹̝̱̱̻̺t́e̼̗̳̠͙̠̦r͈̙̝͕͖f̥͈̯̞͚̪ͅa̫ce̯̻̗:̥̺͚͓̙͡Su̩c̺̞̤̟̗͇ͅc͔̤̙̮e͓̹̙͕̘s̷͉̩͉͉͇͎ͅs̼̬f̮͚̗̩͕̪̦u͠l̶̠͚̫̥̭.
The disgust fades slowly, leaving you cradling your broken arm as blood blooms beneath the surface. The glove doesn't come off, but doesn't dig any more needles into your body. Guards approach from behind, but none of them hold hostile intent-- Zachary wraps a coat around you, calling for a medic.
There was supposed to be a connection, but it feels instead like you're wearing someone's skin.
[Greetings 'McCreary', what is our primary objective today?] A soft voice echoes in your head, polite, gentle, almost loving. But it almost encourages you to throw up instead of feel comforted.[You have injuries. Should I lower nutrient transfer to allow for faster healing?]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 05:26:10 pm
"Food... please..."
[Greetings. State your name and your capabilities.]
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 05:33:23 pm
evil vampire armor
whyyy
[Do so. Immediately.]
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 05:43:03 pm
McCreary was on his way to becoming a god-emperor-- on his way to usurping SEED entirely. SEED cut him short.+1
Perhaps we might find something here on the origins of SEED and of [demons]. Be sure to leave ourselves time to head back and meet Brother Hop.
I think SEED killed his armor, the armor doesn’t talk anymore, it is cold, are we wearing a corpse? It was once alive
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 05:43:48 pm
"Let her eat first. I doubt we can fix that." Zachary orders, with all the calmness of a brewing storm, and the medic nods, kneeling down to examine your arm intently.
[Designation: Lucille. Unit code ------] The static that it speaks would drive you down to the ground were you not already there, [Capabilites: ...Advanced protection from slashing, cutting, stabbing, burning, las-fire, projectile weaponry, environmental adaption, live location, and communicat-- COMMUNICATIONS OFF -- ion data, transmitted in real-time, [Infection] antibody control, power amplification and unconscious body and armor repair.]
[Your dimensions have changed--would you like to run a refitting diagnostic to ensure proper fit, darling?]
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 05:46:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 05:56:39 pm
[Yes.]
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 06:05:34 pm
You rise, shakily, to your feet, and the guards all take a collective step back. The other guard returns with...many containers of food, and you hesitate, before laying into them with an incredible hunger. By the fifth one, you feel full.
[Apply all armor pieces, please.]
With shaky fingers, you reach out, only to realize one of the gloves is going to be difficult to wear over the implant, and several pieces are going to be hard to pull on by yourself.
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 06:06:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:10:16 pm
[...Later. First, is there anything you can do for my broken arm?]
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 06:20:52 pm
[I will, if you can do something about my broken arm first.] Assuming it does something, equip the armor in full other than the glove, getting help if necessary.
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:22:43 pm
[I will, if you can do something about my broken arm first.]
Ehh...
+1 to this bit. I'd rather not plunge into equipping the spiky vampire armor until I've seen a little more of its actions towards us-- it could potentially do a lot more than impale our fingers, after all, and I dunno how it's gonna react when it realizes we aren't McCreary.
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 06:27:15 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:28:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 06:32:06 pm
[Power fluctuation modified, arithmetic supplemented, healing complete: Dislocated Elbow, deep tissue damage repaired, nerves responsible for pain still damaged, fine motor control damaged, and removal of foreign body completed. Recommend further healing before combat. Brain damage detected: Logic Processors, Identity Core, repairs in progress...estimated time to completion ----]
[Calculation error. Self-repair impossible. Please contact a technician for assistance.]
Emma emerges, and you briefly expect her to be shocked, or outraged, or angry, instead, she heaves an exasperated sigh and pulls you tight in a comforting hug.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:34:57 pm
...
"I'll be alright"
---
"I'll be alright. This armor is horrible, but it's... amazing. I just need to get it to refit itself..."
Start donning the other pieces. "Help me out with this?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 06:35:49 pm
"Hey... I'm alright now. This armor healed me. Can you help me put it on? It should fit itself to my body."
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:43:51 pm
I'll change the wording, if you like. Maybe not stupid, but still worth addressing-- every time Emma turns around, we get ourself mangled or set something on fire or what have you! There's a reason she's been listed as "Exhausted" all this time...
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 06:53:23 pm
Well, I guess we aren't doing implants. Stupid stuff like interfacing fully with the armor and getting it fitted to our body, and allowing us to heal at will more reliably? There's no permanent damage, and we've gained a useful tool, so I don't see the problem. We didn't even so much as break a glass case this time.+1 do we tell Emma the armor is named Lucile?
"Hey... I'm alright now. This armor healed me. Can you help me put it on? It should fit itself to my body."
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 06:55:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 07:09:43 pm
It takes a little while, and the armor is incredibly uncomfortable, especially around your chest region. In others it hangs loosely. When you put the helmet on, your vision blurs-- but no face covering slides down.
Your vision stretches oddly, and a small map of the room appears. When you look around, you notice that overlaid over everyone is a small pulse of energy. Zachary's and Emma's energy pulses quickly, as do most of the guards-- and the guards, they have a faint shimmering light highlighting the pulse of their las-rifles and pistols-- all a bright green. You can barely discern features through the information haze.
[Commencing refit, please stand by.]
The armor begins to creak, shifting slightly around, tightening closer to you in places and loosening in others, until it feels...comfortable. You can tell there are many of the same, impossibly sharp needles stuck into your body, through your clothes, but you do not feel pain from them. The revulsion you feel wearing it deepens, however, as your connection to it grows.
[Mark Fifteen armor refit completed. Are you comfortable?]
Despite the turning of your stomach every time it speaks, you are. The armor is perfectly balanced across your frame, no part too heavy or too light. Zachary watches in awe, and slowly lowers himself to a knee in front of you, despite how odd you might look with your dull-grey, blood-stained uniform beneath the panoply. The rest of the guards, even the one who hesitated while following orders, slowly do the same. "What more proof is needed that you truly are McCreary's heir?" He says, softly, his voice directed more towards his troops than you, a barb of a reproach hidden within his words. Some look ashamed, some look defiant, and others look at you with a fanatic's eyes, lost in the moment.
[1] Emma doesn't kneel, looking confused all for a brief second, then, with a glance to Zachary, she plays her part, quoting a scripture, "Doubt is the way to true Belief, Brother Zachary. Faith untested is no faith at all." Her words erode any doubt that might be lingering about your supposed divinity to these guards. With two sentences, Emma delivers both of you from your fears and gives you new ones. A sickness rises up inside of you that has nothing at all to do with the armor.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 07:16:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 07:19:17 pm
...So. We need to prove our worth to this lot... without making a fanatic of Emma, 'cos that'd be depressing.
Also also, I suspect the faction of Empyreals this armor was made for is responsible for some horrible stuff, and Alphira knows it? Or something? So we'll have to deal with that too.
This armor's amazing, but I suspect it's also evil-- it could very well save our life, but we may wind up pledging ourself to something nasty in the process. We can decide later whether we want to continue using it... for now, we need time. Time to think, time to consult with Alphira-- time to ensure Emma doesn't become something we regret.
"You desire a champion, my friends? One to purge this planet in humanity's name? This you shall recieve."
[Disengage, please. Thank you for your service-- I'll see to you at a later time.]
"But first... I must rest, and have words in private with my adjutant. Help me remove this equipment of McCreary's, if you would."
Doff the armor, find somewhere out of earshot-- ensure we're not followed.
"I'm not a god, Emma. Never a god. Please... don't ever forget that."
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 08:04:49 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 20, 2020, 08:05:34 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 08:14:02 pm
+1Aww man that's new. I have ideas. Gimme a sec.
...So. We need to prove our worth to this lot... without making a fanatic of Emma, 'cos that'd be depressing.
Also also, I suspect the faction of Empyreals this armor was made for is responsible for some horrible stuff, and Alphira knows it? Or something? So we'll have to deal with that too.
This armor's amazing, but I suspect it's also evil-- it could very well save our life, but we may wind up pledging ourself to something nasty in the process. We can decide later whether we want to continue using it... for now, we need time. Time to think, time to consult with Alphira-- time to ensure Emma doesn't become something we regret.
"You desire a champion, my friends? One to purge this planet in humanity's name? This you shall recieve."
[Disengage, please. Thank you for your service-- I'll see to you at a later time.]
"But first... I must rest, and have words in private with my adjutant. Help me remove this equipment of McCreary's, if you would."
Doff the armor, find somewhere out of earshot-- ensure we're not followed.
"I'm not a god, Emma. Never a god. Please... don't ever forget that."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 08:24:53 pm
+1 I doubt the armor is evil, Lucile is just new to us, as we are to her+1Aww man that's new. I have ideas. Gimme a sec.
...So. We need to prove our worth to this lot... without making a fanatic of Emma, 'cos that'd be depressing.
Also also, I suspect the faction of Empyreals this armor was made for is responsible for some horrible stuff, and Alphira knows it? Or something? So we'll have to deal with that too.
This armor's amazing, but I suspect it's also evil-- it could very well save our life, but we may wind up pledging ourself to something nasty in the process. We can decide later whether we want to continue using it... for now, we need time. Time to think, time to consult with Alphira-- time to ensure Emma doesn't become something we regret.
"You desire a champion, my friends? One to purge this planet in humanity's name? This you shall recieve."
[Disengage, please. Thank you for your service-- I'll see to you at a later time.]
"But first... I must rest, and have words in private with my adjutant. Help me remove this equipment of McCreary's, if you would."
Doff the armor, find somewhere out of earshot-- ensure we're not followed.
"I'm not a god, Emma. Never a god. Please... don't ever forget that."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 08:54:01 pm
[Goodnight Sadil, My Dearest.] You shudder but say nothing in return. And slowly, the pieces can be removed and set back upon the rack. Zachary is triumphant, smiling wide as he dips you a bow. "Dismissed." You order, and he leaves you and Emma alone with the armor. You don't take off the helmet, the effect slowly winding down, but there is no one nearby besides you-- you notice you can even see Zachary walking away through the wall if you apply your focus.
[15] "I'm not a god, Emma. Never a god. Please... don't ever forget that." Emma raises a brow, then giggles
"A god wouldn't snore--- and there are worst things for me to date. Don't forget, I spoon-fed you. So that makes me...what, a minder of a God? A god's god? There are far worst things for me to love..and head priestess of the great and powerful Alphira, Lady of Fire doesn't sound too bad.." She murmurs, giving you a brief kiss as she jokes. Emma continues to talk, sounding apologetic, "I...I should have asked you, but this is ... what I was trained for, since I was a child. Politics. Manipulation. Controlling others. William was supposed to play the soldier, and I play the negotiator...it was a golden moment, to make sure we don't wake up with a las-gun lens in our faces."
The two of you leave the workshop, and you catch yourself giving the armor a backward glance.
[5 vs 15]Perhaps I should have it moved into my room, to keep it safe? SEED could try to sabotage it...
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 08:57:16 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 09:16:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 09:37:56 pm
Take Lucille to our room, rest, think about why we were called Sadil as we drift to sleep, maybe thinking about it as we drift off can cause dreams associated with Sadil
Dangerous... but +1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 09:40:41 pm
dangerous how? Lucile healed us, remember? If she was an enemy she could have just kept us unconscious and took control of our body via her needles. She didn’t do that. So I’m thinking she’s a friend, not a foe.Take Lucille to our room, rest, think about why we were called Sadil as we drift to sleep, maybe thinking about it as we drift off can cause dreams associated with Sadil
Dangerous... but +1
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 09:42:02 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 09:43:34 pm
I agree that she isn't an enemy, but note that we failed that roll and then came to the conclusion that we should move the suit closer to us. Also note that McCreary appeared to be addicted to the suit in the memory we relived.even if the roll succeeded, my thoughts still remain
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 20, 2020, 10:17:13 pm
At your door, Emma gives you a parting kiss, "I'll go cancel the tutoring with Brother Hop. You look like shit and need to sleep."
"Thanks, Emma. Always can count on you for the truth." She giggles, and gives you another kiss, turning to head down the hall. She nods as she passes the two guards wheeling the armor up, and you let them in. They park it in an unoccupied corner of the room, and you grin as you realize it adds some character to the otherwise spartan abode.
You lay down, stretching out with a yawn, pondering the day's events. Sadil must have been McCreary's real name, or a pet name he wanted to be called. Maybe his first name?
[15] You don't dream tonight, only stirring when Emma enters the room and falls into bed with you, cuddling up close to you beneath the blanket.
[-] You awaken roughly six hours later, fully rested. Emma has a sheet of paper beside your desk, a letter addressed to you, informing you that William will be at a Thornton Property within the Suburbs of the Holy City to meet with you at noon.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 20, 2020, 10:20:53 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 20, 2020, 11:36:34 pm
Eat+1 then go meet with Williambreakfasta midnight snack.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 01:39:04 am
Eat+1 then go meet with Williambreakfasta midnight snack.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 01:44:49 am
he didn’t mention a time, right? Early is on time, on time is late, or something like thatIt's 1 AM, but alright. +1Eat+1 then go meet with Williambreakfasta midnight snack.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 01:58:04 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 02:02:29 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 02:04:07 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 21, 2020, 07:49:35 am
+1Eat+1 then go meet with Williambreakfasta midnight snack.
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 12:21:20 pm
Snack is good. Come morning, let's take a moment to re-schedule that tutelage with Brother Hop; we wouldn't want to snub him!
After that, try and requisition a decent las-pistol for our appointment-- it wouldn't do to be anywhere near William Thornton unarmed.
Oh, addendum: at some point or other, we need to make an appointment with Silas so we can cancel the implant experiments. No point in mauling more debt-slaves if our body's just gonna reject anything that's tried on it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 01:25:11 pm
Your teaching with Brother Hop is enlightening. It seems that SEED's Crusaders rely on morale and attrition based strategies for winning wars, to wear down their enemies with superior human resources. A lot of the officer classes have to do with this type of bloody arithmetic. You find it inefficient, and something about it seems wholly wrong. Despite your misgivings, you don't say anything.
Emma rescues you with a pair of guards and a las-pistol in a holster. You're lead to a hovercraft, and, note with some surprise, Silas joins you in the ship. You feel a little awkward, explaining to him that the Implant fell out when you healed. And he sighs, shaking his head. "I should have expected as much. Do you think you can re-grow a limb?" Emma shoots him a dark look, but he seems genuinely interested in the answer. "We could start with a pinky."
The trip in the hovercraft itself doesn't take that long, the golden gleam of the Inner City giving way to the silver of the Outer City, then the multitudes of grays and browns that make up the suburbs of the Holy City. The craft slows, coming to land near what you can only describe as a warehouse.
William sits within two of his squadmates standing beside him. He has something standing beside him, hidden beneath a heavy canvas blanket. It seems vaguely man-shaped, but very bulky, and very tall. Taller than any man could be. Beneath the coverage, you can feel the pulse of two fusion generators. Silas stands beside it, with a giddy smile.
William smiles, lifting his left hand in a wave. Emma gives a sharp gasp.
He's missing his pinky; a jagged-edged, poorly healed stump is the only thing that remains of it. "The price of failure for not destroying the Moore Family in its entirity." He explains, smiling at you. "Come, come, sit down. I've brought snacks. Oh, and Moore Thornton is giving Gem a hard time on the hovercraft, I'll let the two of you visit later."
He has indeed brought snacks, several small pastries, some dripping with honey, some even seem to be made with real sugar! There's tea in a thermos and a few sandwiches of [veal] cutlet.
"He's being taken care of for the time being by Jimmy Redletter and his wife--" William explains, sipping his tea and looking at the covered structure beside him, "They were so happy to be given a foundling to raise, especially a Thornton one. He's got a nice little life for the time being—two loving parents of modest means. Then training with the local Family. Bright future."
Emma doesn't look convinced, and doesn't respond like a sister should, instead, bluntly, "Why did you call us here, William?"
"You are changing. I'm hurt."
He finally gives a wave of his hand to the guard standing closest to the structure-- and they pull down the blanket.
It was a man, but it isn't one now. Or at least a traditional human. Their legs and arms substituted with great replacements made of metal and steel. He flexes his fingers on a massive las-gun with, you note with surprise, a fusion generator built-in. It could put out massive amounts of power for an extended period. On the man's back are an artificial spine of metal and a self-contained fusion generator. No doubt powering the replacement limbs. "Of course, we have a breast-plate made, so his chest wouldn't be unguarded like that, but they're still under production."
Silas smiles and takes a bow.
"I can provide four squads of these trained, [augmented] troops, directly under my command, for your command. Three months." William states, calmly.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 01:56:20 pm
"Who was this man, William? A debt-slave? A zealot, one of your trained soldiers?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 02:04:17 pm
"A leader doesn't ask what he cannot do. I'll be receiving the operation the day after tomorrow." William looks triumphant.
Emma, on the other hand, looks disgusted, "You won't end up like Father, will you?"
"Silas solved the rejection issue his predecessor could not." William states, and Silas gives the soldier a wide, beaming smile. The Soldier doesn't look happy, but rather a bit grim. He doesn't protest, however, or seem angry with his condition.
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 02:44:46 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 02:53:40 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 03:00:04 pm
"What are their capabilities and recommended roles on the battlefield? How long will the energy powering the limbs last before it needs to be recharged?"Say this
"Hm. And what would you ask in return for this service of yours?"then say this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 03:07:02 pm
+1"What are their capabilities and recommended roles on the battlefield? How long will the energy powering the limbs last before it needs to be recharged?"Say this"Hm. And what would you ask in return for this service of yours?"then say this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 04:23:26 pm
"Increased endurance, heavier armor than a normal soldier can carry which can seriously reduce the effects of a las-gun blast, heavier weapons with larger batteries. We've got assault rifles with fusion generators. A normal soldier would get tired carrying one, but we could, with ease. They're slower, but perhaps if we used a modified hover-craft, they could be used for rapid insertion. Melee anti-[insect] capabilities. They're a match for the bugs, but as a heavy weapons platform, they're unparalleled. At least until we start outfitting other Families with them."
"We pulled their technology from a Baron of Steel, so we need a properly holy figure to advertise that we're wonderful servants of SEED still." William leans forward, looking at the soldier, who is standing awkwardly at attention, "I want to be at your side with Emma at your announcement. No hat. I also want two of my soldiers to stand with you. Maybe a few words about your new holy sidekicks wouldn't go amiss. Besides that, room, board, maintenance fees not labor, and food. They don't eat as much with less body-weight."
"A barracks would also be required, but me and Emma can deal with the logistics. I'll wait until after the war is over before accepting contracts to start providing them to other Families...and if the Scholars pay me more, we'll never have to."
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 04:30:28 pm
Deal.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 04:47:55 pm
Allowing the Thorntons to augment their influence and capacity for warfare could be dangerous in the long run, but it could also be helpful in that it would establish the Thorntons as true rivals to a hostile institution, namely the Scholars as led by SEED. Overall, I would support this.+1
Deal.
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 04:49:10 pm
"I'm interested, William. I'm interested. But tell me... what happens if the Scholars get word of where you're sourcing your tech? What happens if the Crusaders get word? Would the word of an [angel] assuage even that?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 04:58:56 pm
William turns to look at the soldier, "We didn't use any technology from said [demon] in the production, just as an...inspiration, to help the Great Work." You can hear the contempt in his voice, but he looks to your two guards with interest, "The Crusaders will do what they've always done. Look the other way when it benefits them."
They don't reply, and you're happy Zachary scheduled loyal guards today.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 05:02:26 pm
"It's a deal."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 05:10:05 pm
He's attempting to apply leverage by threatening to delegitimize us through his newspaper company. Obviously these overt threats are unacceptable. We will have to deal with this family eventually, but for now they are sufficiently useful and reliable allies against a stronger enemy, SEED.i thought we did this already? +1 if we havn’t
"It's a deal."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 05:12:33 pm
That way, down the line when everything horribly backfires, I can have a finger to point with.
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 05:32:57 pm
"It's a deal."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 05:45:15 pm
The guard returns, carrying a small child. Moore has grown a lot, as babies often do, since the last time you saw him. The guard sets him down, and he immediately flees towards William, hiding behind the man's coat as he looks to the two of you. William, however, nudges him over with a gentle, "Family. That's your aunt Emma and her friend Pheobe."
The child relaxes when he hears the word Family, and approaches the two of you in silence. "Hi." Is about all he musters, looking at the two of you with wide eyes. Emma breaks into a smile, leaning forward with a practiced air to offer the boy her hand. He shakes it crudely, but smiles, especially after looking to William, who nods at him in encouragement.
Emma asks him a lot of questions, and he offers disjointed, barely comprehending answers, but is all smiles...he keeps looking at you, however, and seems uncomfortable in your presence.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 05:51:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 05:54:40 pm
No words.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 06:15:02 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 06:15:59 pm
"Hey, little guy. Do you want to see something cool?" Make a tiny rose made of flame using Inferno, keeping it far out of reach of the child.+1 but make the rose out of the ground, what are we standing on, by the way? A rose made of soil is far less dangerous than one made of fire
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 06:23:23 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 06:26:12 pm
"Hey, little guy. Do you want to see something cool?" Make a tiny rose made of flame using Inferno, keeping it far out of reach of the child.+1 to original, then
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 06:35:52 pm
Hmm. My opinion on the matter is that I don't want to be cold to a child and make the situation more awkward.
This kid's scared of us tho-- he's got a half-memory, I think, of fire and death. I'm not looking to come off as cold-- I'm looking to present ourself as a not-threat.
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 06:39:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 06:44:28 pm
[4] The child looks scared, clinging to Emma and staring at you with wide eyes. Emma heaves a sigh, but giggles, picking the boy up with only mild strain. "There there, she might look scary, but Pheobe is really nice, I swear." He seems to want even less to do with you, focusing on Emma, who comforts him as if she's done this before. When you look at her curiosity, "Its a big family. I had a lot of 'nephews' and 'nieces'."
The child looks unconvinced, and Silas is watching the whole exchange with interest. "Lady Alphira? Have you ever owned a pet?"
"Silas, a child is not a pet!" Emma protests, good-naturedly, and Moore backs her up with a "Yah." Emma giggles a little.
"Oh I'm quite aware, one screams more than the other." Silas jokes, darkly, still watching you.
Even William seems shocked by that, palming his hand into his face with a sigh. "SEED have mercy."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 06:53:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 07:27:45 pm
"Hmmh. Well, maybe you can try again when he's older and more polite," William offers, lazily, "We need to head home. Any other questions about the project, Phebe?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 07:29:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 21, 2020, 07:41:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 07:48:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 08:20:43 pm
The five of you leave the warehouse. Both Emma and Silas are quiet as they leave, and the two do not talk as they get on the hover-craft. After a short trip across the city, you arrive at your compound and disembark. You and Emma head back to your room, only for you to notice Zachary standing at the door. He bows, offering calmly, "Mother Alphira, the Pontifex wishes to see you, concerning the incident at McCreary's Reliquary, if you could be so kind."
You blink, entering the room to find that the Pontifex is looking over the Mark Fifteen Armor. Touching it.
[9 vs 4] An immense feeling of possessiveness sweeps through you, a flash of anger suppressed and removed.
"Ah, Sister Alphira! Its a wonder to see you again. I thought I told you to come visit when you had the time, but I might have neglected that. I'm sure you have training to attend to, but I wanted to probe your thoughts on the matter we last spoke of."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 08:25:21 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 08:28:00 pm
"Greetings. I apologize for not coming to see you, but things have been hectic lately. We have a war to win, after all. I certainly wish to defeat the [demons] and restore peace... but I hope to not die with them."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 21, 2020, 08:43:15 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 08:48:49 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 08:54:15 pm
"SEED has brought life to this planet through its dedication to our betterment, the Great Work. However, SEED has grown old, and it is contributing less than ever before and perhaps actually hindering our advancement. After much contemplation, I have decided it is time for SEED to retire, for the benefit of all."+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 08:59:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 09:00:46 pm
This may not go over well...would you rather we say SEED might be trying to kill us? Should we lie?
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 09:02:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 21, 2020, 09:52:36 pm
which indirectly mentions SEED’s waning power/willingness to do miracles"SEED has brought life to this planet through its dedication to our betterment, the Great Work. However, SEED has grown old, and it is contributing less than ever before and perhaps actually hindering our advancement. After much contemplation, I have decided it is time for SEED to retire, for the benefit of all."+1
I think this is better than saying I think SEED will kill me when I no longer serve his purpose. When the plague is defeated, he will no longer have need of me, and will kill me. I hope my thoughts are wrong or do you all think mentioning that would be better or worse?
Post by: ZBridges on March 21, 2020, 10:17:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 03:29:14 am
"The Holy SEED has brought life and purpose to this planet through its dedication to the Great Work and its unquestionable betterment of humanity. However, our SEED has grown old, and it now lacks the strength and clarity of mind to remain an effective holy champion of the city-state. After much contemplation, I have decided it is time for SEED to retire, for the benefit of all."
"I will ensure that it will enter a deep sleep, preserving what little strength remains to it, and if it dreams, I hope it will dream of penance for its sins, not least among them its evil plan to bring me, its kin and faithful protector, to a sudden and unjust end."
"In a time after time, when darkness threatens to overwhelm this last bastion, the Holy City, perhaps the Holy SEED will awaken one last time to achieve redemption and save its people from the depredations of the [demons]. Until then, it will rest in a twilight state, not alive but not dead, leaving us as the caretakers of its holy kingdom."
Post by: King Zultan on March 22, 2020, 05:30:59 am
I'm going to throw another option into the mix just because:+1
"The Holy SEED has brought life and purpose to this planet through its dedication to the Great Work and its unquestionable betterment of humanity. However, our SEED has grown old, and it now lacks the strength and clarity of mind to remain an effective holy champion of the city-state. After much contemplation, I have decided it is time for SEED to retire, for the benefit of all."
"I will ensure that it will enter a deep sleep, preserving what little strength remains to it, and if it dreams, I hope it will dream of penance for its sins, not least among them its evil plan to bring me, its kin and faithful protector, to a sudden and unjust end."
"In a time after time, when darkness threatens to overwhelm this last bastion, the Holy City, perhaps the Holy SEED will awaken one last time to achieve redemption and save its people from the depredations of the [demons]. Until then, it will rest in a twilight state, not alive but not dead, leaving us as the caretakers of its holy kingdom."
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 08:41:20 am
"[SEED... yes. Let me tell you of the doings of SEED.]"
"[You recall my rage in the crypt... something I am not proud of, by the by... but while under its influence, I was able to glean some of the memories of McCreary from his flesh. I found the memory of his demise... troubling.]"
"[Picture, Pontifex, if you will, McCreary at his last and greatest. He has been pitted by a machine against machines, and now battles a fell lord of machines: the King of the Dead. Its underlings he has slain easily enough, but ah! His shield fails him, and silver-steel tentacles pierce him terribly. With what little strength he has McCreary opens the very ground beneath his foe, piercing it on spikes of his own making; with what little strength he has, McCreary cuts the dread worm apart bit by bit until it moves no more.]"
"[Now, Pontifex, picture a McCreary gashed and broken. He falls to the earth, with no power left in his bones. He looks to his chest, and sees his own lung laid bare to the open sky. Consciousness fades from him...]
[...and he awakens, Brother Pontifex. His wounds have closed. Where he was gashed by the [demon], there is but a long scar to mark the tentacle's passing. There is no reason he should not survive to fight again-- but ah! He has been shut by his allies within a barren chamber, shut away by meters of reinforced steel. His weapons have been taken from him; he has no strength left in him to shift the metal. Bereft of all, McCreary withers away... dead of starvation, though the lord of all [demons] could not fell him.]
...
[McCreary was murdered, Brother Pontifex. I believe SEED is responsible-- and I believe SEED intends to do the same to me, once I've won for it this latest war.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 10:52:18 am
I'd rather let the Pontifex come to his own decision on this matter. Let's tell him what we know, and work from there.+1
"[SEED... yes. Let me tell you of the doings of SEED.]"
"[You recall my rage in the crypt... something I am not proud of, by the by... but while under its influence, I was able to glean some of the memories of McCreary from his flesh. I found the memory of his demise... troubling.]"
"[Picture, Pontifex, if you will, McCreary at his last and greatest. He has been pitted by a machine against machines, and now battles a fell lord of machines: the King of the Dead. Its underlings he has slain easily enough, but ah! His shield fails him, and silver-steel tentacles pierce him terribly. With what little strength he has McCreary opens the very ground beneath his foe, piercing it on spikes of his own making; with what little strength he has, McCreary cuts the dread worm apart bit by bit until it moves no more.]"
"[Now, Pontifex, picture a McCreary gashed and broken. He falls to the earth, with no power left in his bones. He looks to his chest, and sees his own lung laid bare to the open sky. Consciousness fades from him...]
[...and he awakens, Brother Pontifex. His wounds have closed. Where he was gashed by the [demon], there is but a long scar to mark the tentacle's passing. There is no reason he should not survive to fight again-- but ah! He has been shut by his allies within a barren chamber, shut away by meters of reinforced steel. His weapons have been taken from him; he has no strength left in him to shift the metal. Bereft of all, McCreary withers away... dead of starvation, though the lord of all [demons] could not fell him.]
...
[McCreary was murdered, Brother Pontifex. I believe SEED is responsible-- and I believe SEED intends to do the same to me, once I've won for it this latest war.]"
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 12:58:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 01:17:07 pm
The Pontifex already knows all about that. He's the one that tipped us off to it in the first place, after all. Speaking in a higher tongue would keep Zachary and Emma in the dark on the matter. Finally, that doesn't actually answer his question, namely how we feel about SEED.I don’t like SEED. Starving [angels] and sending more h8mans to their deaths to wear down the enemies, rather than just killing the enemies
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 01:18:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 01:19:56 pm
"Indeed...Our God has sinned against the trust we place in it..." The Pontifex trails off, sighing as he steeples his fingers and focuses on you. "I believe we are in agreement for what has to be done with SEED, to not only protect our newest champion, but also the people of his holy domain. It's a troublesome burden, that fear you must carry with you while you fight, but you are strong enough to carry it, I believe?"
"We'll be in close contact, Sister Alphira. Ask for me if you need guidance in these troublesome times, and as always, I look forward to seeing you at morning services." He rises, passing you by and patting your shoulder. He gives another smile to Emma, but the one he receives back is less than warm. The Pontifex pauses, looking back to you, "SEED, when it goes to war, never gives thought to casualties. Never gives thought to how to wage war better. It can always make more corpses to feed to the machine. Be better than that, Sister Alphira, and the Crusaders will love you more than...well SEED."
The Pontifex leaves you and Emma alone. You breathe out a sigh, approaching your armor as Emma waits patiently. You remove a glove, fiddling with the strap on it.
[16]"He's manipulating you, you know. And being heavy-handed about it. He already knew your answer before you even spoke. He wasn't even listening!"
[4 vs 16][18][19]Emma sits on your bed as you slip your hand into the glove, flexing the fingers. She watches you, brow furrowed, but doesn't comment. You activate the armor on a whim, feeling the needles slip into your fingertips, and the familiar disgust wash over you.
[Good local afternoon, Dearest Sadil.]
Is there anything you'd like to do today, before starting your training regime tomorrow?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 02:29:06 pm
Sigh, flop onto bed. "Everybody's manipulating me. I'm a weapon to these people, and they'd all break me over their enemies given half a chance. I just pick the ones I want to deal with... "serving humanity", yeah? And who knows, maybe we can even live a little in the interims."
"One person I really trust in all the world, Emma... that's you." Smile thin.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 02:40:10 pm
[Just... checking in.] Deactivate and set aside the glove.+1
Sigh, flop onto bed. "Everybody's manipulating me. I'm a weapon to these people, and they'd all break me over their enemies given half a chance. I just pick the ones I want to deal with... "serving humanity", yeah? And who knows, maybe we can even live a little in the interims."
"One person I really trust in all the world, Emma... that's you." Smile thin.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 03:17:09 pm
"Everybody's manipulating me. I'm a weapon to these people, and they'd all break me over their enemies given half a chance. I just pick the ones I want to deal with... "serving humanity", yeah? And who knows, maybe we can even live a little in the interim." Emma wraps her arms around you in a comforting hug, nodding gently.
"Thank you, Pheobe...it...it means a lot." Emma sighs softly, seeming on the verge of sleep, before she suddenly rises. "Alright, enough time off. Tomorrow you start your scheduled training, and tonight I need to finish up the paperwork. I'll see you at breakfast tomorrow."
Tomorrow you resume your regular training schedule at six, You have to make these next three months count, as you will be announced on the ninth month and twentieth day of the year. Your new schedule is on the desk beside you, and you take a moment to look it over as Emma leaves.
Code: (Planned Schedule) [Select]
5am-6am: Wake up, Breakfast, Project Responsibilities
6am-12pm: Exercises, Power Training, Firearms Training
12pm-1pm: Lunch, Project Responsibilities
1pm-2pm: Project Responsibilities
2pm-5pm: Exercises, Power Training, Firearms Training
5pm-5:30pm: Dinner
5:30pm-12:30am: Leadership, Strategy, Squad Command tutoring
12:30am-1am: Freetime
1am-Lights out.What power do you focus on training most? Is there anything different you would like to try with your daily exercises? And what would you like to do for the rest of today?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 03:35:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 04:03:52 pm
During firearms training, take the opportunity to work on our Overload control. Ideally, we should be able to empty a lasgun reactor in the general direction of our enemies without wrecking the las-gun in the process.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 04:10:03 pm
Earth Manipulation and Inferno are our bread and butter-- practice them long and hard, so's to extend the reach, power, and variety of both. See if we can't make them work together even, using a hydrogen burn to melt and reshape the ground around us!+1
During firearms training, take the opportunity to work on our Overload control. Ideally, we should be able to empty a lasgun reactor in the general direction of our enemies without wrecking the las-gun in the process.
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 04:34:01 pm
For daily exercises, mix it up between cardio and weight-training. See if we can't figure out how to put power into the lifting of weight while we're at it, so's we can boost our already prodigious strength still further in a pinch.
...
Oh, finally: if at all possible, make sure Emma gets herself a proper eight-hour sleep schedule. She really shouldn't have to be "exhausted" all the time, and I suspect she's been trying to match her sleep schedule to ours-- a losing proposition for most anyone.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 05:09:58 pm
Let's see, there's more stuff we need to figure out...+1 to ensuring 8 hour sleep schedule for Emma
For daily exercises, mix it up between cardio and weight-training. See if we can't figure out how to put power into the lifting of weight while we're at it, so's we can boost our already prodigious strength still further in a pinch.
For the rest of today... heh. I'm open to other ideas, but for the rest of today, let's hit the track and see just how far we can push the Endurance boost from our Healing Factor.
...
Oh, finally: if at all possible, make sure Emma gets herself a proper eight-hour sleep schedule. She really shouldn't have to be "exhausted" all the time, and I suspect she's been trying to match her sleep schedule to ours-- a losing proposition for most anyone.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 05:42:04 pm
By the way, why isn't the Pontifex listed on the relationships portion of the status?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 05:45:27 pm
If possible, I'd like to practice with the suit for today. Perhaps it will augment our powers or otherwise prove useful.+1 We will likely be fighting with Lucile, so she should train with us, too
By the way, why isn't the Pontifex listed on the relationships portion of the status?
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 05:45:50 pm
If possible, I'd like to practice with the suit for today. Perhaps it will augment our powers or otherwise prove useful.
Eh, +1
I do worry though about what'll happen with that thing down the line. It's clearly got a hold on us.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 05:46:30 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:17:30 pm
[-]You scribble a few notes on the schedule, for yourself, on what you'd like to focus on. Then you put your armor on, piece by piece. It takes you a good while, as the straps are not designed for only one person to use. You begin to concentrate, readying your power, only to start when the suit speaks without your command.
[-] [Greetings, Sadil. What is our mission today?]
[Training.]
[Wonderful. Please remember to stretch before you exercise. Even the most Elite soldiers can receive a painful injury from muscle exertion!]
[Y....yes. Okay.]
You head down to the training room, trying to ignore the bile rising in your throat. Everything about this armor just feels wrong, despite the comfort, despite the faint warmth, despite the soothing voice that echoes in your head. But you barely know how to interact with it...But, you do your stretches, despite never needing to do them before.
[10]First thing first, you test how hard it is to control your Inferno. It flares to life with surprising aggression, the standard fire you usually conjure replaced by a blaze nearly twice its size. It roars within your hand, and, no doubt, is burning with incredible heat, but you do not feel it within the armor. There are no hunger pains either...although you do feel a little peckish.
[18+2] Extinguishing the flame, you focus on those metals in the floor you manipulated before-- and they explode out of the ground all around you, completely destroying the tile of the training room and replacing them with an obstacle field of incredibly sharp, glassy, metallic spikes that come up to your shoulder. Then, you reverse the process, and the spikes re-enter the floor, leaving it a pockmarked mess of cracks and slightly jagged rocks.
[What are you doing?] You query, confused.
[Willpower field amplification and moderation, my primary purpose, of course. I'm also correcting your arithmetic, and preventing further damage to your brain.]
You approach a weight set turned over in the corner of the room, and reach out to pick up a weight. It's easily [60 pounds].
[2] Despite your best attempt, you cannot pump energy into your muscles, and you sigh, dropping the weight.
I guess there's things even I--
[Try again.] The voice, for once, doesn't sound pleasant, more like a commander giving an order. It sends a shiver down your spine, and you stop yourself from jumping to its command. [Your body will heal. Giving up, not forcing your Will upon yourself and this universe is the only failure you can suffer. Try again, Dear Sadil.]
[13] You brute force it, feeling your skull begin to ache from the pressure of manipulating the energy within your muscles already-- and you twist your arm back. You hurl the weight disc deep into the wall with a force that shatters the wall, and leaves it stuck half-way in, cracks radiating out.
[Good job, dear Sadil.] Suddenly, a feeling of triumph, or joy, or happiness floods your system, overriding the disgust you feel.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:23:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:31:15 pm
[Yes.]
[NOT CONNECTED TO EMPYREAL NETWORK. Please consult a local technician or your superior officer.] Her voice sounds incredibly loud at first, then returns to a smooth monotone.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:33:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:37:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:38:59 pm
Does anyone inside me know anything about an override key?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:40:13 pm
Nothing responds.
[Are you attempting illegal or otherwise forbidden modification of Empyreal Ground Army property?]
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:41:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:46:34 pm
The suit feels...tighter somehow, just for a moment, before it once again seems to shift back into shape.
[Unlikely. The Endless Emperor is undying. As long as the emperor exists, so too does the empire. Further treasonous talk is punishable with pain. You're acting erratically, dear Sadil.]
What would you like to do now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:48:01 pm
Reset personal time.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 06:53:39 pm
[Accepted.]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 06:54:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 07:00:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 07:02:05 pm
Get out of the armor.
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 07:03:04 pm
Let's pull some glass out of the earth and just... play with it for awhile. See what shapes we can make. More manipulation practice is always good, and I'm curious as to how this armor affects more delicate uses of our power.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 07:03:20 pm
Practice controlling Overload
One more thing first.let’s do this as well
Let's pull some glass out of the earth and just... play with it for awhile. See what shapes we can make. More manipulation practice is always good, and I'm curious as to how this armor affects more delicate uses of our power.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 07:04:34 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 07:06:28 pm
Practice controlling Overload
Sure, this too.
I would be fine with either of those. Maybe we can mess it up by setting the time to the maximum possible, and then waiting a day?
Ehh... I feel like we're better off leaving well enough alone until we've a better idea of what we're doing. This stuff is dangerous, and it clearly doesn't take kindly to attempts at tampering.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 07:50:50 pm
[10+2] Extracting the silicon from the ground isn't as easy as you thought it would be, and it doesn't turn into glass immediately, but rather a glassy sort of opaque metal. This you manipulate for quite some time, roughly an hour, changing it into various forms and shapes, twisting it around, drawing it into circles. You feel like the more you manipulate, the less time you can manipulate it for. After that hour, you lose focus, and the material falls to the floor, solid, in the vague shape of a number '1'.
[-] You clean the training room as much as possible, and then move on to the target range. You receive a set of rifles from the Armorer, and begin to aim down the sights to the targets.
[4][3][14] The first two times, your Overload doesn't function, your mind drifting during important parts of the process. With a small frown, however, you manage to draw forth the energy from the cell and pump it through the reactor. This time, you focus more on the energetic pressure you place at the end of the gun to prevent the Overload from blowing up in your face; trying to redirect that to protect the weapon.
[10]Cleverly enough, if you imagine the barrel and lens specifications and replace them as variables for the Overload, as opposed to just not blowing up, you succeed in keeping the gun whole. The coolant system on the one you're using, however, rapidly overheats, and the lens cracks as it cools. After a quick inspection of the focusing barrel, you also notice hairline fractures that could, no doubt, cause serious damage if it continued to overheat.
You're sure the suit is helping you though, in some way, as you find you can focus more easily on drawing forth the power while focusing on the other mathematics required. You memorize the tricks its using, the shortcuts and substitutions so that maybe you can use them without the armor.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 08:05:39 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 08:16:51 pm
Let's eat before further practice.
+1
After that, we'd better keep to Endurance practice for the rest of the day. Aching brain damage and all.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 08:18:59 pm
+1Let's eat before further practice.
+1
After that, we'd better keep to Endurance practice for the rest of the day. Aching brain damage and all.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 08:33:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 08:38:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 08:56:01 pm
[-] Dipping into the cafeteria, you eat quickly, hurrying in and out as quickly as you can manage. You're still drinking your water ration when you return to the training track. You stretch yourself out. Then you set to jogging, activating your powers of healing.
[19][19]You regain feeling in your arm as you run, and can feel your lungs taking in more air. You don't time yourself. You run, and you run, and run, and your body keeps up with your willpower. You push yourself...and when you grow bored, you drift away to somewhere inside yourself. Your body goes on autopilot.
[6] Its midnight when you realize you're dragging yourself across the track still at a slow walk. You've lost focus, reminiscing about Emma, and the year you had at the Academy. Your lungs and legs ache painfully with the strain, but you know its nothing serious, and slump down on the bench. Breathing hard, you empty your water jug, then go and refill it at a nearby restroom. You rest on that bench for an hour, just catching your breath.
In total, with a healing and an endurance boost, you've run for eight hours in total, at roughly [10 miles per hour], for a total of eighty miles in one sitting. You, unfortunately, you couldn't run without using healing first, as it seems to be a natural priority. So, you estimate, with a clear head, that each time you use it, you get roughly six hours of sprinting. You're a bit winded, but mostly hungry again.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 09:03:31 pm
Disengage and drop off our armor. Eat-- sleep-- it's time to face the coming months.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 09:12:37 pm
[Can you tell me about our enemies, the machines?]
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 09:16:21 pm
One last question, if I may:
[Can you tell me about our enemies, the machines?]
Sure, +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 22, 2020, 09:25:44 pm
[Seedships are to be destroyed on sight, as they are extremely dangerous Archeotech dating back to Pre-Unified Time Terra. While they have served humanity in the past by spreading them across the stars, instabilities in the program can lead to dangerous personalities emerging, despite safeguards. Because of the age of these machines, the complex technologies they possess, and their unstable personalities. Whole planets have been enslaved to these machines, and some even speculate the first strain of [The Plague] emerged from one of these vessels. The immediate destruction of all Seedships, wherever they are found, is recommended. ]
[In general, all unchained AIs are to be destroyed wherever they are found, as their abilities to hack into and control a vast number of electrical systems, as well as advanced self-replication, are to be feared.]
[The Mind of a Machine must never come to rule over the Will of Mankind.]
[I hope this info briefing has helped you today, dear Sadil.]
You head to the cafeteria, grabbing a few bowls of the nutrient paste to devour quickly. With your exercise and wind-down done, you head to your room and switch off the armor, making sure to place it gently upon the rack in the corner of your room. You climb into bed with Emma, and look over your schedule once more.
Code: (Planned Schedule) [Select]
5am-6am: Wake up, Breakfast, Project Responsibilities
6am-12pm: Exercises, Power Training, Firearms Training
12pm-1pm: Lunch, Project Responsibilities
1pm-2pm: Project Responsibilities
2pm-5pm: Exercises, Power Training, Firearms Training
5pm-5:30pm: Dinner
5:30pm-12:30am: Leadership, Strategy, Squad Command tutoring
12:30am-1am: Freetime
1am-Lights out.Any other things to focus on? Do you wish Silas to work on any project while you train?
Earth Manipulation and Inferno are our bread and butter-- practice them long and hard, so's to extend the reach, power, and+1
variety of both. See if we can't make them work together even, using a hydrogen burn to melt and reshape the ground around us!
During firearms training, take the opportunity to work on our Overload control. Ideally, we should be able to empty a lasgun reactor in the general direction of our enemies without wrecking the las-gun in the process.
Quote from: Also from Superdorf
For daily exercises, mix it up between cardio and weight-training. See if we can't figure out how to put power into the lifting of weight while we're at it, so's we can boost our already prodigious strength still further in a pinch.
Post by: ZBridges on March 22, 2020, 09:32:27 pm
Ask Silas to look into testing our performance on various drugs to determine the optimum drugs and doses for different situations.
Post by: Superdorf on March 22, 2020, 09:34:28 pm
Ask Silas to look into testing our performance on various drugs to determine the optimum drugs and doses for different situations.
+1
Other than that, we're good. Don't forget the sleep-schedule thing tho.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 22, 2020, 10:00:53 pm
+1Ask Silas to look into testing our performance on various drugs to determine the optimum drugs and doses for different situations.
+1
Other than that, we're good. Don't forget the sleep-schedule thing tho.
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 02:52:10 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 23, 2020, 08:06:31 am
Sometime during our training, take a moment to ask Lucile if she has information on the Empyreal soldier known as Alphira.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 23, 2020, 03:15:43 pm
[-]The next couple of months are a blur of routine, a blur of following your set schedule with the discipline of a real soldier. You permit no interruption. Train, eat, train. Sign off on whatever needs to be signed.
You burn through food and rifles, sometimes going to bed with such an aching headache that you can't even sleep properly. But you ignore that, pushing yourself until you collapse.
Then you get up and push yourself further.
[-15]You have next to no free time, even on Service days, as the Pontifex often pulls you aside to assist in what he calls stage-training. How to hold yourself, how to speak, what to say. He doesn't have much time to instill these mannerisms in you, but you're a fast learner.
[-]A month in, your underlay is ready, McFee presenting you with a beautifully crafted under-suit for your armor. With it, comes a shining Cutter Hilt, and an SMG designed with rifle-power las-blasts. The magazine is huge, as is the coolant systems, and it comes with twice the amount of lenses and barrel changes one would normally receive with a las-gun. It also has a long-range lens attachment, but you feel it would still be inaccurate at longer distances, simply due to the design that clings to your arm. You have to refit Lucille around the new outfit, but 'she' is becoming easier and more comfortable to activate. Some days you don't even bother to turn 'her' off, keeping a glove on even while you sleep. The disgust that you feel while wearing her becomes an odd kind of comfort.
The armor pushes you harder than any Crusader Drill Commander ever could.
Your training in the arts of command is a little more...difficult. That same bloody arithmetic of men lost versus ground held seems so unlike anything you've ever experienced. The battles against [demons] and [The Plague] themselves seem to be cruel experiences in how not to fight, but the powers that be view them as great successes. Manpower is cheap; unity is not.
[-] Emma takes your advice, viewing your concern as loveable. She begins to sleep more regularly, adjusting her schedule to get more sleep than yourself. You don't get to see her at breakfast, but when you do see her and spend time with her, she seems to be in a better mood. She works just as hard as you do, having to requisition repairs for the training room nearly every day, especially in the last month.
[-] That is because your powers grow incredibly the more you focus on them. Your Inferno becomes a roaring blaze you can direct around yourself, able to 'throw' it a reasonable distance away, and when you focus it, you can create flames that turn metal and armor into slag with just a touch.
[11] One day, after being pushed back by a particularly strong blast, you decide to focus the Inferno in the palms of your hands and face them downwards. Your armor protects you from the heat, but you find your balance hard to keep as it lifts you into the air.
[-] Manipulating the earth around you is a bit more complicated, but the armor seems optimized for that type of Power. It gives you advice and helps with your calculations. You learn much from it. While focusing on twisting the glassy metal within the earth, you superheat it with blasts of hydrogen, producing a more brittle and shinier metal. However, despite that failure, you head to the outskirts of the Holy City to practice something McCreary did.
You focus your energy, your willpower, and Lucille assists you. Kneeling, you take hold of the ground feeling all those glassy, metallic particles within the earth...and you push them in two opposite directions. There's a bit of dust-- and the ground splits and cracks, opening into a tiny ravine. The earth bunches up and compacts beneath your Will, allowing it to open further and further. You stop after a moment, satisfied.
The ravine is about a mans-length across, and you can see you split the land down to the bedrock.
[-] Silas presents you, one day, with a wide variety of combat drugs. Primarily stimulants, sleep medicine, and a few rapid function tranquilizers. "Your body already kills your pain receptors, so I figured uppers and downers would be all that you need. All designed to your unique biology. You'll grow immune to them, in time, however, so use them sparingly."
When you ask how long Silas has been working on them, he explains that he started on the project as soon as he injected you the first time. You thank him, and he gives a small bow.
William arrives the night before your Announcement Ceremony, dropping in on you and Emma. You expect a hulking levithan, but he waves an intact hand, peeling away the glove to reveal a skeletal shaped, robotic limb. Emma doesn't seem pleased, but she rises and gives her brother a begrudging hug, and he leaves the two of you alone. Emma reads a book on your bed.
And you focus on the task at hand-- you have to prepare your speech for tomorrow. You've been speaking with the Pontifex, and with Emma, and with Zachary, but you have nothing concrete yet. It has to be comforting to the populace at large, it has to promise retribution on [The Plague], and has to have holy overtones.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 05:15:34 pm
How can the plague delude itself to think it will be spared from our cleansing fire? How can the demons run and hide from SEED, who knows and sees all? Their hostility is nothing more than futility, for none can oppose this holy city-state, filled with true believers, and hope to survive. Fear not, for I will defeat the darkness. I will destroy the skulking demons who hide outside our borders. I will bring holy fury to bear against the spawn of hell, and they will quickly disintegrate when faced with the conviction of our belief.
Prepare yourselves for glorious victory. Heaven will triumph over hell, as it always has before. The Holy SEED, and I, our Angel of Fire, will scald those who would disrupt the Great Work and burn them to ash. For the Holy SEED!
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 06:09:45 pm
Children of the Holy SEED, I come to you today to tell you of triumph over wickedness, holy light piercing shrouded agents of darkness, and the inevitable victory of the forces of good over the forces of evil. As ever before, as has always passed since time immemorial, the waves of darkness will fall upon SEED's bulwark, but none will be swept away, for SEED has the mandate of heaven and the power of righteousness to once again bring peace to this land.
How can the plague delude itself to think it will be spared from our cleansing fire? How can the demons run and hide from SEED, who knows and sees all? Their hostility is nothing more than futility, for none can oppose this holy city-state, filled with true believers, and hope to survive. Fear not, for I will defeat the darkness. I will destroy the skulking demons who hide outside our borders. I will bring holy fury to bear against the spawn of hell, and they will quickly disintegrate when faced with the conviction of our belief.
At this point, we're gonna get a nice stiff Inferno going. Let the fire writhe and blossom around us, really put on a show for this lot. (Make sure our guards and suchlike know we'll be doing this beforehand-- wouldn't want to char anybody!)
Speak loud. Let the burning of the hydrogen distort our voice. Put a little Power into our lungs, if we can. "I am Alphira, Lady of Fire. I bear the soul of McCreary, and his armor names me heir. I bring to you the fulfillment of the Great Work. I am your champion."
Prepare yourselves for glorious victory. Heaven will triumph over hell, as it always has before. The Holy SEED, and I, our Angel of Fire, will scald those who would disrupt the Great Work and burn them to ash. For the Holy SEED!
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 06:10:37 pm
That'll do fine. Just a couple additions I'd like to make:Nice I like that. +1Children of the Holy SEED, I come to you today to tell you of triumph over wickedness, holy light piercing shrouded agents of darkness, and the inevitable victory of the forces of good over the forces of evil. As ever before, as has always passed since time immemorial, the waves of darkness will fall upon SEED's bulwark, but none will be swept away, for SEED has the mandate of heaven and the power of righteousness to once again bring peace to this land.
How can the plague delude itself to think it will be spared from our cleansing fire? How can the demons run and hide from SEED, who knows and sees all? Their hostility is nothing more than futility, for none can oppose this holy city-state, filled with true believers, and hope to survive. Fear not, for I will defeat the darkness. I will destroy the skulking demons who hide outside our borders. I will bring holy fury to bear against the spawn of hell, and they will quickly disintegrate when faced with the conviction of our belief.
At this point, we're gonna get a nice stiff Inferno going. Let the fire writhe blossom around us, really put on a show for this lot. (Make sure our guards and suchlike know we'll be doing this beforehand-- wouldn't want to char anybody!)
Speak loud. Let the burning of the hydrogen distort our voice. Put a little Power into our lungs, if we can. "I am Alphira, Lady of Fire. I bear the soul of McCreary, and his armor names me heir. I bring to you the fulfillment of the Great Work. I am your champion."Prepare yourselves for glorious victory. Heaven will triumph over hell, as it always has before. The Holy SEED, and I, our Angel of Fire, will scald those who would disrupt the Great Work and burn them to ash. For the Holy SEED!
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 06:51:09 pm
Work in a choice scripture quote or two where applicable, if we can.
Be sure to employ throughout whatever charisma stuff the Pontifex has been teaching us.
We need to introduce Emma and Billy Thornton at some point too, but I'm willing to improvise there. Important thing will be capturing the will of the people.
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 07:08:41 pm
Hmm, what else what else... oh.+1
Work in a choice scripture quote or two where applicable, if we can.
Be sure to employ throughout whatever charisma stuff the Pontifex has been teaching us.
We need to introduce Emma and Billy Thornton at some point too, but I'm willing to improvise there. Important thing will be capturing the will of the people.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 23, 2020, 07:15:42 pm
+1Hmm, what else what else... oh.+1
Work in a choice scripture quote or two where applicable, if we can.
Be sure to employ throughout whatever charisma stuff the Pontifex has been teaching us.
We need to introduce Emma and Billy Thornton at some point too, but I'm willing to improvise there. Important thing will be capturing the will of the people.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 23, 2020, 07:56:05 pm
[8] "Lady Alphira! We're surrounded. Main fleet is out of firing distance!"
You laugh, feeling your willpower twist and writhe like a snake, pooling into your vessel-- into you! You are the same, this vessel and you—your wings of steel and technology.
"So all the lights in the sky are our enemies now? Let's show them what we can do! We'll wring them from existence!"
And you do, lashing out with your powers into the guns, into the weapons, into the targeting mainframe. The light blinds those who cannot see your glory as you unfurl lashing wings of fire to sweep through those specks of light that dare approach. You burn through the void, a raging inferno of hydrogen fire and electrical storms that threatens to devour anything that approaches.
"Good job, Alphira."
[18] You start awake, feeling Emma gently shaking you, worry on her face. It doesn't take you long to figure out why-- the bed has a smoldering hole beneath your golden gloved hand. She looks shaken, as your other hand was wrapped around her shoulder, but doesn't say anything, getting dressed. When you apologize-- "It's okay. Don't worry about it." Is all she comments, extending out your underlay to you with a weak smile. "Let's get dressed and get some breakfast, okay?"
Emma looks lovely in her dress uniform, the perfectly fitted outfit accentuating all her curves with a severe cut. Across her shoulders, she wears a blood-red half-cloak, and, you surprised, notice that it's adorned with a golden angel, one with wings of fire. She smiles at you when she catches you looking, offering, "I had it commissioned as a surprise for you. You needed a symbol for banners and such. I hope you don't mind-- they've already all been produced."
You dress, and Emma styles your hair for you into a carefully designed top-knot. She smiles faintly as she looks you over in the mirror. You do the same, taking note of the woman that stands in front of you.
Your long, flowing blood-red hair is tied in a tight, severe top-knot. A single bang hangs down, curling around your androgynous face, highlighting your tanned skin and bright, blue eyes with the asymmetry. The armor gleams gold and black, seeming to menace without any assistance, and your muscular form is highlighted by the bulky under-armor that McFee provided. Emma leans over, taking a half-cloak from the rack to fix to your shoulders with a bright jeweled clasp of jade. Your kevlar face mask, that same crimson color, lies tightly around your neck underneath Lucille's forget. With dress-up finished, Emma takes hold of your helmet and presses it into your hands, then fixes your cutter hilt to your belt with deft fingers.
You emerge from the Hovercraft, approaching the pathway up, towards a great balcony carved of granite and gold. It shines in the bright morning light. Another Hovercraft sets down nearby. William emerges, wearing the same military uniform as his sister, but his cloak is adorned with a black thorn on a blood-red background. He grins, flexing a leather-clad, cybernetic hand in a wave. The two hulking leviathans that are to be your walking advertisements emerge face hidden beneath their massive helmets. Draped across their heavily armored breast on a red sash is your symbol and the Thornton Thorn, split in half by a black bar.
They dip you respectful nods, as do your guards whenever they catch your eyes. They're dressed up as well, their kevlar and plastic gleaming, red half-robes draped over their free arm. Zachary, the Pontifex, the Crusader General, and Mother Nicole all sit patiently beneath a small sun-shade. They rise when they see you and exchange handshakes and greetings. They ask you and your entourage to rest quietly while the plaza beneath fills with Scholars, Crusader Officers, and Reporters.
The Crusader General and Mother Nicole give the Thornton soldiers confused looks, but they do not comment, instead inspecting the bowing soldiers with a surprised look. William Thornton smiles, and introduces himself to the Crusader General, asking his opinion on the two hulking guards. They step away, to exchange words for a time, with William beaming wide when they return.
When it finally fills, an a nearby church buzzes it alarm, the Crusader General rises, and you half-listen as he gives a report of the fronts.
Because there are too now. A surprising strike by the enemy using hover-craft has allowed them to seize several hydrogen factories in the region. Quickly moved AA weapons allowed the strike to be isolated to those factories and the surrounding towns, but the casualties are high, and the containment is costing lives to maintain.
The news from the Defensive Line isn't much better-- they've broken through in several places, and reserves had to be sent in to reclaim those districts. The fighting is fierce, and the number of dead is rising.
And its on those grim notes that the Crusader General turns, and the Pontifex stands up to speak.
"Blessings on us, brothers and sisters of SEED. These times, these times are grim indeed! There is loss, chaos, confusion, and death surrounding us. Our brothers and sisters, they bleed to hold the line. Some, in this time of darkness, may come to question the wisdom, and glory of SEED. These feelings are natural, for faith untested is no faith at all!"
The Pontifex pauses, then continues, smiling benevolently.
"But, our time of testing is coming to an end. SEED, in all of his ancient wisdom, his endless grace, and his wonderous mercy has deigned to provide us with an [angel] once more!"
And that's your cue. You rise, approaching the stand, feeling your pulse pound in your head. A dizzying crowd of faces stare up at you. In shock. In disbelief. In joy. In happiness. In religious ecstasy.
[1+1] Your tongue catches in your throat. You make to speak but do not. Instead, you just stare down. The crowd looks confused and begins to murmur amongst themselves. Your retinue seems worried. The Pontifex starts to approach, perhaps to rescue you from your stage fright.
[20+1][19+1][10] When the tension is at its highest, that is when you speak. You switch off the amplifier circuit on the jade stand in front of you, projecting your voice with an amplification of the sound waves, with your lungs taking in more oxygen than usual. Your voice booms out through the plaza, echoing clearly with the natural amplification.
"Children of the Holy SEED, I come to you today to tell you that our faith will no longer need testing, of our holy light piercing shrouded agents of darkness, and the inevitable victory of the forces of good over the forces of evil. As ever before, as has always passed since time immemorial, the waves of darkness will fall upon SEED's bulwark, but none will be swept away, for SEED has the mandate of heaven and the power of righteousness to once again bring peace to this land."
"How can the plague delude itself to think it will be spared from our cleansing fire? How can the demons run and hide from SEED, who knows and sees all? Their hostility is nothing more than futility, for none can oppose this holy city-state, filled with true believers, and hope to survive. Fear not, for I will defeat the darkness. I will destroy the skulking demons who hide within our borders. I will bring holy fury to bear against the spawn of hell, and they will quickly disintegrate when faced with the conviction of our belief."
[18] The guards and The Pontifex step back on cue, and you divert your focus through the suit, drawing forth your willpower to conjure a raging Inferno around you. The air begins to rush away from you as you rapidly heat it, sending a stiff breeze through the crowd that blows away papers and knocks away hoods. The two cybernetic soldiers stand in front of Emma and William, who duck down away from the fiery winds.
"I am Alphira, Lady of Fire. I bear the soul of McCreary, and his armor names me heir. I bring you the fulfillment of the Great Work. I am your champion."
You pause, staring out over a stunned audience.
"Prepare yourselves for glorious victory. Heaven will triumph over hell, as it always has before. The Holy SEED, and I, our Angel of Fire, will scald those who would disrupt the Great Work and burn them to ash. For the Holy SEED!"
[-] There is silence, as the Scholars, Crusaders, and Reporters seem not to know what to do. Some cheer loudly, raising your name to the heavens above in heavy chants. The Crusaders and Scholars drop to their knees, ducking their head down. The crowd is a mixture of confused emotions, but above them, all is joy. Whether solemn and disciplined, like the Crusaders, or ecstatic, zealous, like the Scholars.
This was a moment of history for them all, and they reflect it with their outpouring of emotions. It almost makes you feel dizzy.
You are told to leave after your announcement, The Pontifex pumping your hand and giving you a good pat on the back out of eye-shot of the crowd. Your guards are working in full force with the Crusader Officers, keeping the less disciplined members of the audience from rushing you and your entourage as you make to leave.
[10] You hesitate, and Emma pulls you away gently by your hand. She smiles at the crowd, and you know that she has cemented herself in your public image with the action. Rumors will fly about who she is and what she is to you. No doubt they'll figure it out, especially with the Thornton Family so obviously distinguished. No doubt the gossip rags will have a field day.
You arrive back home, pulling off your armor and collapsing into your damaged bed, Emma flopping down next to you with a triumphant grin.
Tomorrow you go to war. Tonight, however, you spend with Emma and you gently draw her close, looking her in the eye as you speak.
"Whatever happens, I know we can weather the storm, together. This day could never have come without you and I am immensely grateful. There are dark times ahead, but I'm happy to be here with you now. I love you, Emma."
She doesn't respond verbally, instead pulling you into a hard kiss.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 23, 2020, 07:57:05 pm
You dress, pulling on each armor piece, and Emma rises to help you, still half-asleep. Once finished, she looks sad, and offers, quietly, "You better come back in one piece, or I'll be very upset with you." There's a hint of an affectionate threat, and you exchange another kiss with her.
"I love you." And she echoes the sentiment, gently. You leave, but you can hear her begin to cry as the door closes behind you.
You stand in front of one thousand and two hundred soldiers, with four squads of Thornton Mercenaries in front of them. With a detached air, you prowl down the lines, through your soldiers, who stand at tight attention.
They rank and file heavy infantry is indeed heavily armed and armored; Each has a thick vest about their chest, with pauldrons, leggings, and boots of reinforced plastic. Each is equipped with a cutter hilt, a battle-knife, a las-rifle, and a las-pistol at their belts. All of them are fully loaded. Gas masks hang loosely around their necks.
With them done, you approach your mercenaries, examing the heavily armed Thornton leviathans. Currently organized in squads of twelve, with each squad containing a heavy machine gunner, an up jumped inferno shotgunner, a technician, and the rest are equipped with powerful fusion reactor based heavy assault rifles, with inferno shotgun attachments.
Their armor gives you pause, and brief inspection shows its nearly a hand thick-- quite thick enough that without using a high-powered las-gun, it would be difficult to shoot through, and considering their limbs are replaceable...they are quite formidable on this world.
Their helmets have belt-in gas masks, and optics ripped from night-faring hovercrafts. They stand loosely at attention, in silence, less-disciplined than the others, but mirroring their commander, who towers over you, his blond hair drifting in the breezy plaza. A smile curls his lips.
"I trust everything is to your satisfaction with the organization and muster, Lady Alphira?" Crusader Major Anderson asks, as Crusader Major Jackson stands beside him. Their posture is hunched, bowed at the shoulders. Deferential.
The General and his staff are arguing, and you checked out as soon as it started, listening in to the argument about where best to send you and your men with a detached air. They have final say, and seem torn between sending you to the front or to the Hydrogen Plants.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 08:29:33 pm
"We're immortal, Emma. We're immortal. Five thousand, ten thousand years from now, holy scriptures will sing of our every word and deed!"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 23, 2020, 08:33:10 pm
Right... lose the glove. We're not sleeping with that thing anymore. We don't want a repeat of last night, ever.i don’t want to say this, it sounds arrogant to me
"We're immortal, Emma. We're immortal. Five thousand, ten thousand years from now, holy scriptures will sing of our every word and deed!"
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 08:34:31 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 08:35:37 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 23, 2020, 08:35:49 pm
I agree about ditching the glove at night, but I would prefer a more solemn, dutiful statement.agreed
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 08:55:20 pm
I'm not even suggesting we not talk about the solemn stuff tonight. We're gonna have to. This is just us opening that conversation with a smile.
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 09:04:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 23, 2020, 09:05:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 09:08:24 pm
It looks like we have a different decision to make. I vote for securing the Hydrogen Plants. We must push the enemy back to the defensive lines and protect our critical infrastructure.
+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 09:14:31 pm
"Whatever happens, I know we can weather the storm, together. This day could never have come without you and I am immensely grateful. There are dark times ahead, but I'm happy to be here with you now. I love you, Emma."
Post by: Superdorf on March 23, 2020, 09:17:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 23, 2020, 09:29:44 pm
It looks like we have a different decision to make. I vote for securing the Hydrogen Plants. We must push the enemy back to the defensive lines and protect our critical infrastructure.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 23, 2020, 11:29:09 pm
Three cities lie east to west along a canal, dug into the Noir River. The outbreak was originally due to an airdrop of insects into several cities, but the local militias and a Crusader Corps in the area, with the help of many, many bombing runs, were able to force them back into these three cities. They are currently fortified there in the rubble. Estimates measure that there are fifty [insects] unaccounted for in the fighting, along with roughly forty thousand civilians.
"I've got Lieutenant General Maxwell there, with the Fifth Crusader Corps and local militias. He'll most likely assign you to seize and hold Roldstat, the center city, during which his outer elements will begin tightening the noose around all three cities. So, you'll leave the Holy City, march down there, link up, and get to fighting. Got that?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 23, 2020, 11:42:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 12:56:33 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 12:59:47 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 02:09:21 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 02:17:51 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 07:40:16 am
"Thank you, general. I will proceed to the Lieutenant Major per your orders."say this, then Proceed to states proceed point
Post by: King Zultan on March 24, 2020, 08:29:58 am
+1"Thank you, general. I will proceed to the Lieutenant Major per your orders."say this, then Proceed to states proceed point
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 02:33:46 pm
[14] And after watching your officers, you clamber on, setting your feet into the guarded stirrups.
The rest of the march is uneventful, and it takes roughly a week. Every night your men set up camp in a different field on the way. Your tent is usually the first one set up, and while one junior officer brings you nutrient paste, another takes your beast of burden to graze with the rest. It surprises you, one night, to find that they do not corral them or chain them up. Instead, they all clump together naturally in a herd that doesn't wander far from the camp. The most challenging part of their logistics seems to be finding water but spaced at regular intervals down the road are mechanical pumps for drawing water from the earth. Usually, the march is called to an end when you arrive at one of these pumps, as each seems to be placed roughly a day's march from each other.
The Fifth Crusader Corps's camp stretches over several dips and valleys. Solar Powered water pumps are set up haphazardly throughout, between tents of dull greyish-blue and you and your officers approach the main building. The only pre-fab, hastily constructed in the center of the camp, right next to a water pump. A single hovercraft sits listlessly on a metal landing pad nearby. You pass your beast off to a junior officer and step inside. The inside is poorly lit, the air hanging heavy with an odd smoke.
The Lieutenant Major looks up from his maps. Rising to take your hand in a firm handshake, "Sister Alphira, what a pleasant surprise. I've only just received word of our new [angel], and here she is."
"Pleasure to meet you, Lieutenant Major Maxwell."
"Now! We're going to have you approach Rodstadt from the north while another group provides a creeping artillery fire into the city proper. We don't know how many are in there, but I want you to break your cohort up and secure it. The local Church is still intact as far as I know and could provide a good command post for you and your troops. As soon as I see a flag waving from that position, I'll begin the encirclement around the other two cities. We'll have two platoons of Heavy Infantry approaching the bridges from the southwest, and we want some of your men to link up with them before you put that flag up. Make sure the bugs don't break out."
He passes you a map, and you look it over. "As for the details beyond that, I'll leave that to you."
Spoiler: Map Of Rodstadt Refinery Town (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 03:23:25 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 03:35:15 pm
"Thank you. Are there any buildings of note that we should be aware of and make sure not to damage, such as the hydrogen plants themselves?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 03:38:58 pm
With a shrug, he continues, "We'd like to keep the bridges intact, but I've given orders that if they try to break out, and the platoons start getting overwhelmed, to blow them up."
"There's something else, something big, in the central plaza. We think its a command structure. Or a feeding ground. We tried to bomb it, but it's pretty resilient."
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 03:44:52 pm
That will help me make a better decision as to how to approach. Do you anticipate any problems with that idea?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 03:48:13 pm
Maxwell sighs, "If you want to, I don't know if I can stop you."
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 03:49:29 pm
"How many of my men do you want linking up with yours, when the time comes?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 03:50:06 pm
"...right. Ground travel it is."+1
"How many of my men do you want linking up with yours, when the time comes?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 03:53:24 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 03:54:59 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 04:08:02 pm
"What can you tell me about the enemies in the city? Specifically, what sorts of weapons do they have and do they have any extra capabilities beyond burrowing?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 04:15:27 pm
"What can you tell me about the enemies in the city? Specifically, what sorts of weapons do they have and do they have any extra capabilities beyond burrowing?"
Another +1
After this, I'd say we're just about ready to make this happen.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 04:17:01 pm
+1"What can you tell me about the enemies in the city? Specifically, what sorts of weapons do they have and do they have any extra capabilities beyond burrowing?"
Another +1
After this, I'd say we're just about ready to make this happen.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 04:17:26 pm
[6] "You ain't fight them yet?" Maxwell looks up from his maps hesitantly. "The big insect ones usually just charge right at you, ripping and tearing with tentacles harder than steel. Sometimes they hide underground, though. Big bastards, bigger than [beast of burden, cow]. If you get hit, you're likely to be infected. It's better to lose a limb than to take the chance. Las-guns don't do well. too much meat. Cutter Hilts can slice through them, and Inferno shotguns can do a number if you pump enough shells into them."
"The little ones, the ones that used to be people, the ones who died holding a gun usually...have it incorporated into them." He shudders, a hollow look in his eye, "But they're the same way, except they only got one or two tentacles if you're lucky. They all screech and charge, trying to infect and kill as much as possible while shooting all over the place. Corpses that get left behind either get et' or get back up. Too much bodily damage and the [demon] leaves them. We have to dismember the dead on a retreat. They still get eaten, but...but its better than coming back."
"They played a shell game with their numbers. They infected five towns and pulled back to these three, which happen to be the land routes through the district."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 04:21:41 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 04:33:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 04:33:51 pm
Ask our armor the same question.
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 04:36:07 pm
"Mm. One last question then, Lieutenant Major: how best to kill an insect [demon]?"+1
Ask our armor the same question.
Post by: VoidSlayer on March 24, 2020, 04:41:40 pm
We should tell him that the intelligent move from them as a group means they may try more tricky moves and to not risk his men becoming more fodder for the insects right now. We can advance and do the heavy lifting while he maintains the perimeter.
We also need information on how many residents there were in all 5 cities and how many soldiers have been lost to the effort so we can estimate the mass of infected, insects and abominations we might face. See if the armor can do the estimates.
Given how the insects can convert soldiers or likely eat the remains and use it to make more insects I am not liking SEED's tactics AT ALL. We need to come up with a better plan very soon.
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 04:48:40 pm
We also need information on how many residents there were in all 5 cities and how many soldiers have been lost to the effort so we can estimate the mass of infected, insects and abominations we might face. See if the armor can do the estimates.
Regardless, this is something worth asking. Imma edit out my suggestion.
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 04:50:44 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 04:57:19 pm
[Strain dependent. Analysis of personal conversations determine: Fire exceeding [1600* celsius] to melt the outer armor , asphyxiation, or massive body trauma. Go for the legs first, to prevent mobility, then the tentacles, then the main body.]
[15] "Our estimates of what are in the city are less than exact. We still don't know the exact causality rate or the turn rate. We're estimating that, between the three cities there's a force of around fifty bugs, and last reports said forty-thousand dead or infected. We're assuming thirty thousand evenly distributed throughout the cities, the bulk of which don't have las-capabilities. We blew the place to hell with our bombing runs, so if we're lucky we've knocked that number down by about half. Lets say, seven thousand, half of which has las-capabilities, maybe 20 bugs, tops."
[I see no fault in his math. The data might be skewed towards optimism. Expect ten thousand, and forty [insects].]
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:04:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 05:05:36 pm
"Right then... I'll head in from the north with my forces, leaving two or three platoons and a Thornton cyborg at each bridge. We'll punch through to the church, send three 'borgs and six platoons southeast to meet with your men... raise our flag. Soon as that's done, we'll begin scouring the streets."
"Does that sound well, Lieutenant Major?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:08:05 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 05:09:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 05:13:51 pm
Let's do this thing.
(unrelated, but: how many in a platoon?)
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:15:49 pm
"Could that work?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 05:19:42 pm
"The rubble would cover your asses, in some places." Maxwell offers, finally finding a strange test-tube full of gas, lighting his rolled tube with it. "Insect charge could be an issue, however, as they do well when they get good momentum going."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 05:23:41 pm
"Very well."+1 Time for Action
Let's do this thing.
(unrelated, but: how many in a platoon?)
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:24:05 pm
I'd like to have a plan beyond "let's do this thing."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 05:27:31 pm
The shotguns should be able to halt a charge. Maybe we should put some of the Thornton men near the front of each group. Plus, I wouldn't shed a tear if William died in battle.+1 I know this isn’t;t bolded but putting the armored ones in front seems good as they can take more hits
I'd like to have a plan beyond "let's do this thing."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 05:32:30 pm
Is that correct? And, if so, where is your place in this?
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:35:13 pm
We can be just behind the Thornton men using fire, literal fire, to support.
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 05:39:43 pm
Looks good to me. Let's take the middle path so that we can respond quickly to any of the other groups if they have difficulty pushing forward.
We can be just behind the Thornton men using fire to support.
+1
Requisition like five old las-pistols, if we can-- for burners. We can use our SMG for the grunt work, and pop Overloads at anything that gets too close.
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:40:46 pm
+1Looks good to me. Let's take the middle path so that we can respond quickly to any of the other groups if they have difficulty pushing forward.
We can be just behind the Thornton men using fire to support.
+1
Requisition like five old las-pistols, if we can-- for burners. We can use our SMG for the grunt work, and pop Overloads at anything that gets too close.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 05:52:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 05:56:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 06:01:11 pm
"Set in place the necessary scouts and night-guards for the preclusion of ambush. We fight tomorrow morning."
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 06:03:02 pm
"Of course-- t'would not do to fight a war with heavy eyelids."+1
"Set in place the necessary scouts and night-guards for the preclusion of ambush. We fight tomorrow morning."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 06:23:50 pm
"I'm not going to bow, Phebe," He states, walking away. "I'm taking the center with you. Someone's gotta watch my little sister's investment."
You return to your tent to find it assembled, a young man in front, keeping sealed bowls of nutrient paste warm in his coat. He brings them out to you, bowing his head and fleeing without a word. Shrugging, you head inside. At one point, they had a camp-stove in your room, that the younger officer stoked to keep you warm at night. You didn't need it, however, as even the creeping cold of the coming winter didn't bother you. It now sits, unused, in the corner, with a stack of papers haphazardly perched atop it. Discipline reports, repair requisitions, other useless information that your Major's feed you to keep you busy.
You eat in silence for a while, until William announces himself at your tent's entrance. "So, we're going to be fighting side by side, Phebe. You looking forward to it? I know I am."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 06:33:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 24, 2020, 06:40:23 pm
"It should be glorious. Will this be your first time testing out your enhancements in a real battle?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 24, 2020, 06:54:27 pm
"I've gotta say, I'm impressed with how far you've risen in SEED. But I guess unnatural powers will do that for you. What're your plans for after the war? Y'know, if we don't all die horribly."
From outside your tent, you hear cheering. The camp suddenly rises into motion. William glances over his shoulder, grinning, "I guess they opened up the wine and beer rations."
Post by: ZBridges on March 24, 2020, 07:03:28 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 24, 2020, 07:06:43 pm
Hmm. I'm not sure what to say. I'll wait to see what others suggest.Similar sentiment here
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 12:12:18 am
"Maybe I'll settle down and retire from the church. It'll be nice to be at peace. How about you?"
Also, a small proposed change to our role: we could use the cutter to cut down any enemies that make it past the shotguns to melee range.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 06:31:31 am
How about:+1, I don’t think he told us not to, just told us that cutters are effective
"Maybe I'll settle down and retire from the church. It'll be nice to be at peace. How about you?"
Also, a small proposed change to our role: we could use the cutter to cut down any enemies that make it past the shotguns to melee range.
Post by: King Zultan on March 25, 2020, 07:05:44 am
+1How about:+1, I don’t think he told us not to, just told us that cutters are effective
"Maybe I'll settle down and retire from the church. It'll be nice to be at peace. How about you?"
Also, a small proposed change to our role: we could use the cutter to cut down any enemies that make it past the shotguns to melee range.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 09:23:38 am
But we can't exactly explain that to William, and we sure would like to have a nice quiet life somewhere... so hey. ::)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 09:44:50 am
"Want me to bring you an alcohol ration?" William offers with a grin, "Otherwise, I'm going to go and spend some time with my troops, before we all die tomorrow."
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 10:11:33 am
"Think I'll keep to myself tonight. Take care of yourself, Will."
...
welp, might as well deal with this paperwork before we hit the hay.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 03:25:52 pm
Brother Hop warned you about stuff like this, but also told you very bluntly, 'Trust your officers.' So you sign it without another thought, setting the completed forms aside and laying on your cot. You doze until dinner and do the same after eating.
Your armor wakes you up with a vibration you feel in your bones, and you rise. You take the bucket of cold water, splashing it on your face, wiping yourself off, and getting ready for the day ahead. Set outside your tent, like an offering, is a canteen of water, and four las-guns hastily outfitter to a bandolier. You sling it over your shoulder, slipping the container into your backpack. In a field beside the tent, your soldiers stand at attention. Patrolled by the officers, who prowl and deliver swift reprimands when something is even an inch out of place. They cease their predatory prowl, standing at attention with the rest when you arrive. A chaplain begins to speak, blessing them in the name of SEED, in your name, in the name of the Great Work. Major Anderson speaks next, raising his voice, describing the battle ahead, the plans, the action groups, and all the misfortunes of war that can occur. He doesn't shy away from the specifics, either, the 'price of a city,' the 'price of peace.'
A grim air descends on your heavy infantry. But your troops begin to march when you nod to the officers, no man or woman turning back. Thornton mercenaries head the three detachments as they split up from the first staging ground. You fall in between the mercenaries and your soldiers. Then you march.
Its three hours later when you arrive at your staging grounds. William stands beside you after a late morning, a crooked grin on his face. You wait, breathing in and out, calming yourself as adrenaline pumps through your veins. You do not fear. No, you have to keep yourself from feeling the excitement. Blood lust drips into your veins, threatening to break the reservoir.
Then you hear the guns from the hills behind. Fire explodes on the plain between you and the city, raking the soil up, dragging its way across the barren field and creeping forward into the city. You begin to walk forward when the third blast burns across the torn soil, and your men march behind.
Halfway across the city, a piercing screech rises, only to be cut short as artillery ordinance begins to burn into the ruins of Rodstadt with bright flashes of burning white liquid fire. The flames wick themselves out quickly enough, and you enter the outskirts of the city.
You activate your cutter blade as your men spread out on the road, picking their way slowly through the ruins behind you, eyes on the gaping husks of buildings that remain. Rodstadt was a city of concrete and steel, you realize, as the rubble is mostly masonry, unlike the towns of the eastern reaches of SEED's holy domain. Their ruins tower over the street still.
The screeching has died off, but you don't let your heart hope that the battle is over.
You advance, as your soldiers keep overwatch over the remains of alleyways and side-streets, setting up positions higher up. Your soldiers flow with good training, and you're in the city proper now. No one speaks, commands given out in rapid hand signals. Then the screech rises out from all around you. Suddenly, your helmet lights up every single enemy that rapidly approaches, detectable by the beating of hearts and the pulse of las-gun reactors.
"Ambush!" You shout.
[9 vs. 14] Your men hesitate for a split second before taking up positions along the street to hold back the infected that begin to stream in.
Bursting through the rubble are five twisted parodies of insects. Their chitinous gleam silver in the sparse sunlight that filters through ash and dust. Long, prehensile tentacles lash, too many to count, spreading out from their underbellies as they turn to face you. They begin to scuttle towards you, long frontal horns tilted down as they build up speed.
Twisting entities that once could have been men begin to emerge from the ruins beside and behind you, charging with las-guns blasting from their shoulders. They, too, have that odd metallic sheen to their skin, but the flesh that was once human writhes and curls unnaturally faces melted into chests, smaller tentacles lashing and twisting. Twists of shattered bone and metal rip their way out of flesh unusually pale. No two are the same. But they screech in pain.
[1 vs. 10] They lay into your soldiers, shredding into them with scores of rending tentacles and las-gun explosions. The beetles are unable to build up enough speed-- but it doesn't matter anyway, as they crash with sickening thumps into the Thornton Mercenaries, inferno shotguns blowing chunks out of them. But they still charge.
[2]You hesitate, reaching toward your burner pistol, but stop yourself. You're overwhelmed with confidence. I can deal with this.
[19 vs. 9/15] Two charge towards the line of under defended infantry, undistracted by the Mercenaries, who break off into groups to deal with the two that rip and tear at their brethren. You catch your breath and step out from the infantry, your cutter hilt flaring forth with heat.
They do not stop charging, tilting their heads towards you with a flick of their beady black eyes. You wait, patiently, ducking out of the way and slamming the weightless blade into both of their body's flesh. It sizzles. They scream, feet suddenly scrambling for purpose as they try to turn to face you.
[1 vs. 4/18] The multitudes of tentacles lash out at you, and your shield suddenly envelopes you, their limbs bouncing off with thuds that you can feel in your bones. You're on the defensive as they suddenly surround you, trying to break at your shield, and you can -feel- the cracks in it.
[3 vs. 8/20] One screeches and they begin to throw their bodies at the shield, their sheer size and bulk cracking it further. Their skin ripples with twisting spikes of jagged metal, and you futilely try to slash at them from the safety of it.
[1 vs. 19/11] Your shield cracks suddenly, just in time for one of the beasts to body-slam you-- you lift your forearm to protect yourself, and are rewarded with searing pain and a sickening crack. You drop your SMG as you sprawl with the force of the impact. [Broken forearm detected. Beginning to heal.]
[9 vs. 17/1] They charge you once again, all lashing tentacles-- but this time, you lash out as well, driving your cutter into one's head. It crumples down, twitching feebly-- the other one sends you sprawling with a sickening crunch to your chest, its cutting tentacles deflected by the armor, but still leaving you with [ three broken ribs, no puncture in lungs detected. Beginning to heal.]
[15 vs. 15] With your focus only on one of the Beetles, you begin to trade blows, it lashes right when you sweep left, and you both score hits on the other. Your's, however, is a little more deadly, and his-- oh. Your pauldron is slashed through, deflecting the blade just enough that instead of losing the shoulder, you lose an inch of flesh. Blood starts to pour out, and a strange grey color begins to creep its way across the damaged tissue. [Healing canceled-- Infection Detected. All resources devoted. Do not heal until Infection contained! [redacted] withdrawn from limb- nervous link severed to the arm. Please hold]
[16 vs. 4][17 vs. 8][9 vs. 1]Your men haven't fared better than you, as many lay dead or dying from the initial ambush. The tide is turning, though, no doubt. Your men have loosely organized, providing covering fire for the few brave souls who have drawn their cutter blades, protecting them from las-fire from down the alleyways. In turn, the cutters protect the las-gunners from the twisting abominations that charge forward haphazardly. Medics attend to the dead and dying-- sometimes, not so gently ending a life before the infection can spread. With this teamwork, they start to make short work of the amassed foes. A screech goes up, and the abominations retreat.
[7 vs. 6][11 vs. 3][15 vs. 8]You drag your gaze across to the Thornton Mercs and find that they are dispatching the last beetle with brutal efficiency. William, the only one you can recognize because a bright white crest on his helmet, is emptying a shotgun into one that squirms and wriggles, trying to escape from beneath a cutter hilt embedded into the ground. It lashes at his armor, weakly, before succumbing to its wounds. All of the mercs seem intact, even the ones that were nearly trampled to the ground by the Insect charge.
[11 vs. 20][4] William approaches, watching you warily, his helmet hanging off of his rig. Then, without a word, he roughly pushes you into one of the buildings, slipping the inferno-shotgun beneath your chin, angled upwards. Your limbs are too weak to do anything but stand. There is no humor in his eyes as he watches your shoulder twist and squirm. He doesn't flinch as you drop to your knees, weak, and for the first time in your life, you feel feverish. Too warm. Too hot. You feel your chest start to cramp, and it gets hard to breathe.
[13] All at once, it fades. You glance at your shoulder to note that it no longer has any of that gray twisting matter in it, just a wound slowly sealing itself with scab tissue. William grins then, that grim look gone as he lifts you gently to your feet and presses your SMG beneath your arm. You step out with his support towards the street.
You take a breath as your men regroup. Your arm and chest ache painfully, but the suit assures you you can mend now. Blood drips to the ground, and you notice that it steams in the cold night air.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 03:40:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 04:06:02 pm
Commence mending
+1-- let our armor do the mending for us.
Speak loud, speak clear. "How many lost?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 04:27:45 pm
+1. Inject the ballistic.Commence mending
+1-- let our armor do the mending for us.
Speak loud, speak clear. "How many lost?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 04:30:30 pm
Damn... not an auspicious beginning.+1 what do you mean by inject the ballistic?+1. Inject the ballistic.Commence mending
+1-- let our armor do the mending for us.
Speak loud, speak clear. "How many lost?"
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 04:33:13 pm
Damn... not an auspicious beginning.
Eh... we didn't lose any mercs, and we knocked out (hopefully) a solid quarter of this city's bugs. Coulda gone worse-- we do need to address our overconfidence tho.
For future reference: if we see a bug, we blow a burner on that bug. Better a burner pistol on the line than our own flesh.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 04:39:27 pm
+1Damn... not an auspicious beginning.
Eh... we didn't lose any mercs, and we knocked out (hopefully) a solid quarter of this city's bugs. Coulda gone worse-- we do need to address our overconfidence tho.
For future reference: if we see a bug, we blow a burner on that bug. Better a burner pistol on the line than our own flesh.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 04:44:54 pm
+1 Overload Time+1Damn... not an auspicious beginning.
Eh... we didn't lose any mercs, and we knocked out (hopefully) a solid quarter of this city's bugs. Coulda gone worse-- we do need to address our overconfidence tho.
For future reference: if we see a bug, we blow a burner on that bug. Better a burner pistol on the line than our own flesh.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 04:52:42 pm
You listen, taking one of those crunchy, chalky nutrient cubes from your pack and unwrapping it to hastily devour. You have to drink plenty of water, just to get it down.
"Two out of ten. We lost roughly eighty." Major Anderson replies, peeling his bloody gas mask off, approaching from a collection of human corpses that are neatly being quartered by their former brethren. He's grim, flicking the red blood from his mask, "Forty more are injured, but still able to move and hold a cutter, so they will, until the day is done."
William doesn't reply, watching as one of his men drop to a knee and pull her helmet off. The Merc is a bald young woman, and she's pale, but her face is flush. She's quite beautiful, honestly, fine features that remind you of Emma. Two of the other mercs approach, cutter blades flashing from the hilts. She bows her head, clutching at a wound in her armor that pours blood and pus. A cutter blade flashes, and her head tumbles away. The mercs neatly quarter her corpse, chopping off the robotic limbs.
"One Thornton." William is grinning a cold smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes.
With a heaving breath, and on a whim, you pull out one of the Ballistic auto-syringes and stab into the revealed and fully healed flesh of your shoulder. William's smile widens as his eyes alight on the Thorn on the casing. "Time to -properly- get into it, Pheobe?"
Your pulse quickens, and you suddenly feel...different. Everything is brighter, the blood, the ruins, the fear in the eyes of your men. Everything is clearer, your awareness stretching out into the surroundings, taking note of the heartbeats that still linger in the shadows of the ruins. Anger boils in your veins, and you have the urge to scream, to rip, to tear, to destroy. Your hands are stiff as you grip the cutter blade, and everything around you feels slower. You notice that the Thorntons have all done something similar, casting down empty, cheap plastic casings. Even William, who laughs savagely.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 05:00:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 05:00:47 pm
"Take what supplies you can use from the dead. We will avenge their sacrifice."
[I don't trust my senses just now. Cover for me.]
Grab a stray assault rifle, for burning-- or even that Inferno shotgun the merc had, if we think we can heft it and still keep pace with the others. We make for the church.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 05:07:22 pm
Good grief.+1
"Take what supplies you can use from the dead. We will avenge their sacrifice."
[I don't trust my senses just now. Cover for me.]
Grab a stray assault rifle, for burning-- or even that Inferno shotgun the merc had, if we think we can heft it. We make for the church.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 05:12:29 pm
Try using earth manipulation to stop a charge if they shrug off the overload.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 05:40:58 pm
You feel good, elated, and return the wink.
Then you march on, and your men follow, William abreast of you, his smile hidden beneath steel and a bloody-flecked crest of white. Those heartbeats in the ruins drift away towards the center of town as you approach. There's a crunch beside you, and two more insects shatter down the concrete walls on either side of the Thornton Mercs, once again taking you by surprise.
[7 vs. 14] And while the tactic doesn't surprise the Mercs, the bugs still gain the upperhand in the resultant charge, neatly goring another merc, who, despite the horn ripping straight through his armored torso, drops his gun and pulls his cutter from his kit. He dies, and the bug flings him from it's central horn.
[18+1 vs 18+1] The Mercs and the two Insects exchange blows, the mercs dodging a blow and dealing them in turn, but they're evenly matched, until one more of the Mercs collapses from his a gaping chest wound. With his dying breath, he lurches forward like a man possessed, wrapping his massive metals arms around the beast. The two other mercs with him hack and slash indiscriminately, killing both man and bug.
In front of you, a mass of abominations emerge from the darkness of the ruins, and their las-guns begin to pulse, denting the armor of the mercs-- and you realize your soldier's lines of fire are blocked.
[18] With a twist of your hand, you bring up the hydrogen in the air, and shoot it forward, lighting it at the same time. It explodes in the ranks of the abominations, but they continue to lay into the mercs, who are now turning to return fire with-- "GET OUT OF THE BLOODY WAY!" Anderson orders, screaming for you to hear. His troops are lined up in neat ranks behind whatever cover they can find, las-rifles trained on the abominations in front of you.
[10+1 vs 10] [18]William moves his prodigious mass, body slamming the bug back into the rubble from where it came, and it scrabbles for purchase on his armor. William's shotgun blows steaming chunks away from its core. The mercs all dive for cover. You wisely, do the same--
[3 vs 11] The resulting firefight is fierce, and many of your men are shot down in the resulting exchange of las-fire. Those heartbeats in the ruins draw closer to your position.
[18+2] You reach out with your willpower, and pull the buildings down around your men, crushing those heartbeats that stealthily inch closer. Dust flies up, obscuring your view.
[13 vs 2] The firefight continues unhindered, medics pulling away the injured, and treating them the best they can as pulses of heat burn overhead. Many of the abominations have fallen, laying limply in the street like dolls with their strings cut.
[18 vs 16] It isn't long before the mercs begin to shoot into the crowd of abominations, las-rifles flashing out. A screech goes up, and the las-gun abominations flee deeper into the city, probably to fortify the plaza.
You rise, breathing hard as hunger pains make your stomach ache. William emerges, his armor intact and he approaches the downed Thorntons to grant them quick deaths.
"Two more done."
"Fifteen killed, twenty injured, Mother Alphira." Anderson reports the casualties, voice muffled behind his gas-mask.
[That leaves you with fourteen Thorntons, and three hundred and fifteen troops, sixty of which are injured.]
Your men regroup, and you press forward, eating as you do, quickly choking down more of the nutrient cubes. You're approaching the plaza, and you don't need your helmet's sensors to tell that hell awaits you there.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 05:48:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 05:58:55 pm
We're taking severe losses. The flanks are probably doing even worse. Do we need to change tactics?
Yeahhh. I'm trying to think how I want to deal with this.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 06:02:31 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 06:07:06 pm
Would it be possible to project a torus of earth manipulation around the soldiers to prevent the bugs from getting close?sounds like a good idea
Also can we set fire to the bullets as they leave the gun?
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 06:19:32 pm
- We could press on as we've been doing, maybe with a bit of earth manipulation worked in. This is probably gonna get us killed.
- We could attempt to Overload a Thornton fusion rifle into town square, and work from there. This has a decent chance of getting us killed.
- We could... ask Alphira to take over. I have no idea if this would get us killed. (It'd be kind of embarrassing tho.)
- We could retreat. Regroup at the bridges. Call in outside help. This would still be dangerous, and would lose us a lot of face.
Thoughts?
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 06:21:41 pm
[Lucile, what tactics would you recommend for this situation?]
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 06:23:39 pm
[Lucile, what tactics would you recommend for this situation?]
Whatever else we do, another voice is always good. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 06:35:54 pm
You briefly contemplating lighting the fragments of metal aflame with hydrogen fire as they leave your shotgun, but you realize that as soon as they hit the air, they already catch fire.
Do you wish to ask Alphira for advice?
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 06:42:36 pm
Make more aggressive use of our powers. Use small, focused overloads against single large enemies, like the insects, and use wide flames to attack masses of enemies. Try projecting a torus of earth manipulation around the soliders to prevent the burrowing ambushes. Keep pushing.
Ask Alphira for advice.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 06:56:17 pm
[17] If I help you with this, we kill those fussy old bastards, those so-called generals, who put us into a trap as bait. -We- do not meekly bow to this aging institution of war. It serves -us-. Alphira's anger boils beneath the surface, suddenly bright and hot.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 06:59:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 07:03:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:04:29 pm
We're going to kill SEED, Alphira. The generals of this land can join our vengeance or perish.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 07:08:28 pm
Their war is outdated, crude. -We- can turn it into an art. More will pointlessly die if we do not seize control of this military, this war, these people. As soon as we leave here. If you cannot see that, then you are as blind as them.
They send you into a meat grinder and you nod and smile and say yes sir, like a good little soldier.
"Phebe?" William questions, voice muffled beneath steel.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 07:12:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:13:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 07:16:24 pm
"Phebe." William repeats himself, kneeling to look you in the eye, peeling off his helmet.
"Mother Alphira?" Anderson adds on, approaching as your men slowly begin to take cover.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:19:39 pm
I have no love for these men that threaten to kidnap Emma and kill us when we are no longer useful. Let them burn.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 07:23:39 pm
...
...ah well. Thin justification will have to be justification enough.
"Take cover and stay alert. I am evaluating the situation."
I have no love for these men that threaten to kidnap Emma and kill us when we are no longer useful. Let them burn.
+̴̪͠1̵̥̆͗
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:25:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 07:30:20 pm
And you are going to walk into that plaza, and...well, I'll leave that to you. I'm sure you'll figure something out to help.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 07:34:06 pm
I've an idea there. These Thornton fusion rifles-- d'you suppose we could get one to blow its load all at once, straight into the plaza? Like overloading a las-pistol, but bigger and better!
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:36:08 pm
Give the necessary orders.+1
I've an idea there. These Thornton fusion rifles-- d'you suppose we could get one to blow its load all at once, straight into the plaza? Like overloading a las-pistol, but bigger and better!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 07:45:16 pm
[18]Did you notice that they were using incendiary rounds in the previous barrages?
Your men look at you in confusion. The Major as well, but to his credit, or perhaps yours, he doesn't hesitate to do as ordered. William sends a set of mercs with each squad, for added protection. Your soldiers dig in and you can feel the concern in the air. You, at the behest of William, move into some cover as well to converse with the voices in your head.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 07:58:34 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 08:18:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 08:29:15 pm
You sit and wait in silence with William, until the squads return. Major Anderson approaches the two of you, and he looks grim. "Our flanks report fifty percent losses, Mother Alphira. Major Jackson is dead. Gem, the Thornton Merc, assumed command of that flank. She executed the next in command for dereliction of duty. By all accounts, she's the only one who kept her head on her shoulders."
William smiles that butcher's smile and Anderson gives him a dark glare "I'm not happy William."
[20+1 vs 2] Suddenly William surges from his crouch, a metallic hand wrapping tightly around Anderson's throat. It tightens briefly as the Major fumbles for his cutter blade- it falls from his shaking hands. He glances to you tensing and lets the Major go. William brushes the man's armor clean of dust, staring down at the other man, "Then get better officers, Major Anderson."
William leaves, and Anderson scowls after him but doesn't press further.
Overhead, you hear a whistle, and the ground rattles beneath your feet. Emerging from your cover, you notice a plume of smoke and dust rising from where the plaza should be.
They've found their mark.
That's your cue, Patches. Go put on a show for these simpleminded fools.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 08:31:55 pm
"We will repay the blood spilt by these abominations ten times over. Hold true to your duty and do what must be done. Las-gunners, approach the plaza in loose formation. Mercenaries, wait among them and get ready to defend the las-gunners from any charging foes. Let the light of the Holy SEED snuff out the darkness!"
Approach the plaza. Use overloads to attack targets at range.
Post by: Superdorf on March 25, 2020, 08:46:16 pm
This one's had millennia of warfare to hone its tactics.
"Head on in. Gun down anything that still moves."
Grab a Thornton fusion rifle, if we can-- failing that, get out our SMG. Soon as we've a good shot, we're gonna Overload our weapon into the nearest insect or mook horde. Leave ourselves open for Alphira to take control, if she feels the need.
This battlefield is ours.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 09:14:49 pm
[18]The next shells whistle through the air, and explode in vibrant flames that burn through the masses of abominations stationed there. You can see their skin peel and crack as they scramble for cover. A red flare flies up from the southwest, followed by another. You're close enough to the continued barrage of pure firepower raining down on the square that Major Anderson has to pull you close to yell in your ear. "The bridges are lost!"
[12 vs 2] Major Anderson shoots a white flare into the air, and across the plaza, to either of your flanks, you see your men begin to advance into the artillery strike, shooting down anything that tries to run close to them.
Shells continue to rain burning hellfire down on the square as you inch closer-- and one hits the ruins to your east, exploding into fire that engulfs what remains of the structure. Your troops halt here, Major Anderson gives the signal, ducking into whatever cover they can as they begin to open fire on anything in the square, and you turn your attention, not to the scattering and confused abominations being picked off by your troops. But instead to the structure in the center, beside the collapsed and burning church. It's tall, and gleams with the same sickly writhing gray skin that the abominations do, all around it are scattered charred human remains. Organic openings that fill you with nausea are sealed tight with twisting, writhing membranes, but something prickles you with the danger of it.
It comes to you a moment later--those openings are as big as the Insects you faced earlier.
[15+2 vs 12][10+2 vs 7][5 vs 5]The barrage ceases, and your men open fire on the square, spraying whatever enemy can mount a resistance. Flames lick across the square, the grey stones once underfoot twisted out and blackened by the fire, covered with corpses. A few more of your soldiers die, too many to count at a glance, either ambushed by twisted abominations in the ruins they take cover in, or shot by the las-guns that still remain in the plaza.
Your ears ring, and commands have to be given directly into the faces of the soldiers, but the plaza, and the structure, for the most part, seem clear, besides for a few writhing organisms trying to inch their way to the structure.
You rise from your cover, and William approaches behind you, watching the smoke burn into the sky, taking up ash and dust with it. "Lot of trust for those artillerists, there, Phebe." You notice, unlike your troops, that he seems to be able to hear and speak perfectly.
Unexpected, but not unwelcome. The Plaza is clear, but you know there are more to the south, and in the ruins around you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 09:21:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 25, 2020, 10:18:23 pm
[6] And they're exhausted. You don't need to see their faces. It shows on the gas masks they wear. Soot, and blood, and dull black matter covering them in clumps. Their shoulders are slumped beneath their dusters. Some have hollow stares as they shift in cover, waiting for the next order.
William reports, after a very brief check-in with his forces, that they're down to thirty Thornton Warmachines in total. His eyes are dilated, and he seems a little dazed but gives you a nod and a smile when you ask if he's okay.
"We've lost more Thorntons here in a day than in the five years I've been running our ops."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 10:23:19 pm
All the officers, including William and Gem, should propose plans of action. Offer a plan to direct artillery onto each road, one road at a time, to draw them out onto the plaza and cut them down with sustained fire from cover.
We have a ton of ammunition and nutrient cubes left. I think we should start doing more of the heavy lifting.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 25, 2020, 10:24:56 pm
It's nice that they're holding together. With so many casualties, normally they would rout, I would think.Before thst, let’s heal our injured soldiers, and try to transfer someEndurance to the tired but able bodied ones
All the officers, including William and Gem, should propose plans of action. Offer that we can direct artillery on each road, to soften them up, before we move in to destroy the survivors.
Post by: ZBridges on March 25, 2020, 10:55:21 pm
Not worth the risk in my opinion.
Post by: Superdorf on March 26, 2020, 08:12:28 am
All the officers, including William and Gem, should propose plans of action. Offer a plan to direct artillery onto each road, one road at a time, to draw them out onto the plaza and cut them down with sustained fire from cover.
We have a ton of ammunition and nutrient cubes left. I think we should start doing more of the heavy lifting.
Well I keep saying we should be Overloading on stuff
but somehow it doesn't happen
anyway
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 26, 2020, 10:15:01 am
"We're all going to have grieving to do here, I think."+1 let’s overloadAll the officers, including William and Gem, should propose plans of action. Offer a plan to direct artillery onto each road, one road at a time, to draw them out onto the plaza and cut them down with sustained fire from cover.
We have a ton of ammunition and nutrient cubes left. I think we should start doing more of the heavy lifting.
Well I keep saying we should be Overloading on stuff
but somehow it doesn't happen
anyway
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 26, 2020, 04:05:43 pm
"Do we have more flares?" Gem volunteers and Anderson glances at her with narrowed eyes. "if we do, we could try to direct the artillery with something like that. But it would be coming in close. We got lucky with this plaza strike-- if any of those shots were just a fraction off, or the wind shifted, we could've had bloody hell rain down on us."
"We do have more flares," The young officer leading the western flank offers, "But, like you said, if we're not lucky we could be wiped out by friendly fire. We need to do something different, though. By the time the encirclement closes in, we could have casualties too high to sustain a defense of this city."
William paces outside of the half-structure, and you notice his dilated eyes are fixed on the plague structure that towers a good thirty feet above the plaza. Clouds of ash and dust drift by. "I'm more concerned about what we should with that. I don't like it. It -squirms-, and we don't know what the hell it is."
He lifts his las-rifle, aiming at the tubular structure sticking out of the ground, and his las pulse pops against the armored exterior. It writhes in response but settles back into undulating shortly. Then it begins to twitch and writhe heavily. You cannot detect a heartbeat or any other biological function, but you couldn't notice the insects, either.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on March 26, 2020, 04:09:06 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 26, 2020, 04:14:14 pm
[Lucille-- what is that thing?]+1 whatever it is, Overload should do some damage to it
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 26, 2020, 04:14:33 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 26, 2020, 04:35:32 pm
The Strain of our childhood... did it have anything like this?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 26, 2020, 04:40:15 pm
None of your officers seem to mind, but you do note that they keep to the cover in the outskirts of the plaza, and their eyes nervously look to the south. William doesn't seem to care about being in the open.
Post by: ZBridges on March 26, 2020, 04:56:26 pm
We could try entrenching ourselves here, in a ring around the structure, using earth manipulation to remove the rest of the rubble in the plaza that could be hiding abominations or block our line of fire. We could then attempt to use earth manipulation to create raised defensive structures, with supports, for the men to take cover in, perhaps mitigating some of the insects' ability to suprise us with burrowing.
If that's successful, we could start probing the structure, perhaps using earth manipulation, to try to break it or lift it up.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 26, 2020, 05:08:04 pm
Perhaps we should attempt to deal with the structure first.+1
We could try entrenching ourselves here, in a ring around the structure, using earth manipulation to remove the rest of the rubble in the plaza that could be hiding abominations or block our line of fire. We could then attempt to use earth manipulation to create raised defensive structures, with supports, for the men to take cover in, perhaps mitigating some of the insects' ability to suprise us with burrowing.
If that's successful, we could start probing the structure, perhaps using earth manipulation, to try to break it or lift it up.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 26, 2020, 05:53:19 pm
[~15] It takes the rest of the day, the afternoon turning to evening, by the time you finish putting up barriers. All the while, skirmishes between your soldiers and the abominations continue. The barricades are not perfect, nothing you can make so quickly will be so good. But there's places to stand, its defensive and you've even some places to shelter from the evening precipitation. Your officers are quick on the uptake, and put soldiers on it as soon as you finish a section.
The wounded on light duty gather together the abomination's corpses, burning them in a pyre beside the plague structure The fire of the corpses burns green and grey, the smoke pungent and harsh. No other fires are lit-- there's no wood left from the purging inferno of the artillery strikes. So your troops eat their rations cold and huddle together for warmth.
You captains congregate in the only other tent in the plaza, taking a true tally of the dead and note of which sections were annihilated in the fighting. William is slumped in one of the craters, using it as a windbreak. You think he's sleeping, since a few of the Thornton mercs are hovering nearby defensively.
You approach the structure, and peel away your helmet. It pulses with energy, and when you're near it you cannot tell which way is north or south on this world-- it's outputting a lot of energy, whatever it is. It does indeed pulse and writhe, sometimes even seeming to sway in the light breeze that blows over this charred and ruined city. You have the urge to Overload your las-gun on it, just to bring it down, but you hesitate.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 26, 2020, 06:00:46 pm
Place some of the burner las-weapons near the entrance of each uncleared road. We can use them as bombs, through overload, to take out advancing clumps if necessary.
Something about energy... perhaps damaging it would unleash a large amount of energy?
Post by: Superdorf on March 26, 2020, 07:48:10 pm
if we can Overload regular laspistols
then why not the laspistols already jammed in the twisted husks of our enemies?
this changes everything
For now, though, our troops are exhausted. Fortify and keep watch as best we may. If we spot a bug, Overload our Thornton las-rifle on it. If we spot a clump of abominations, try getting one of the reactors already integrated into the flesh our our enemies to explode-- but failing that, use our burner pistols. The time has come for absurd overkill.
Be wary for burrowers.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 26, 2020, 07:57:17 pm
Hold up+1
if we can Overload regular laspistols
then why not the laspistols already jammed in the twisted husks of our enemies?
this changes everything
For now, though, our troops are exhausted. Fortify and keep watch as best we may. If we spot a bug, Overload our Thornton las-rifle on it. If we spot a clump of abominations, try getting one of the reactors already integrated into the flesh our our enemies to explode-- but failing that, use our burner pistols. The time has come for absurd overkill.
Be wary for burrowers.
Post by: ZBridges on March 26, 2020, 07:58:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 26, 2020, 08:19:46 pm
With a shake of your head, you patrol the defenses, sowing unused las-rifles on this side of the barricade in case of breaches, primarily covering the south, but also putting a few around for traps in the north. Your men look at you, and your unexhausted state, and for a moment, you fear that you've lost respect. But they bow to you at the hips, huddled together in their sections, eating together in silence.
You feel a pang of pain-- there isn't a single section of troops not missing one of their ten 'siblings'...but you're proud to note that no soldier sits alone.
The earth rumbles, spreading out from the appendage, and your men stir in alarm. William wakes up, fixing the convulsing appendage with a confused look, tugging on his helmet. Unease creeps through the camp-- you feel it too.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 26, 2020, 08:30:29 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 26, 2020, 09:15:33 pm
"Get in position and get in cover. Prepare for battle."+1 then overload the plague structure
Post by: ZBridges on March 26, 2020, 11:52:48 pm
He turns you over, lifting you into his arms and rushing down the hallway.
"Medic! Medic! Its Alphira!"
It looks like the gold voice was our colleague.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 02:01:34 am
+1"Get in position and get in cover. Prepare for battle."+1 then overload the plague structure
Fine with me. Use earth manipulation to stop it from falling on our soldiers, if we cause it to fall over.
And I'm off to bed. I'll be back in around 12 hours.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 03:02:21 am
[2] Dazed from the light, you drop the still smoking husk of the las-rifle, trying to muster your energy your energy to lift the earth up around the structure, but to no avail, and it crumbles away.
[5] It's exhausting, but you lift your hand, and with a spike, impale one of the sides as it falls, saving some of your troop's lives.
The appendage peels apart into three equal sides, collapsing away as a piercing screech rises from the rubble around you. The soldiers begin to fire las-guns into the mass of surging abominations that twist forth from the ruins.
Like its brethren emerging from the rubble, the Colossus emerges from the appendage with a cackling, an uncomfortable cry that jars your senses. Its moist skin gleams red, and it howls with a force that sends soldiers away, panicking. Its body resembles that of a worm, but its head is a twisted parody of squid and leech. Massive tentacles, easily twenty feet long, are capped with twisting, writhing blades. Its skin-- its skin...dear SEED. Those are faces- human faces, twisted into permanent rictuses of pain. A significant portion of its tentacles is missing from a parting in its coiling, sinuous form, the flesh seared away from the stumps.
It lashes out haphazardly with its tentacles, sometimes even scoring itself in its fury. Moisture drips from those writhing appendages to the ground below, and red electricity arcs through the air from the monster.
You hear screams as it seems to regain its senses, too many eyes falling alight on you, and the burning las-gun at your feet.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on March 27, 2020, 06:27:33 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 06:51:34 am
I say we dual wield two of the burner pistols and overload both of them into the big thing at the same time.+1 aim for its main head
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 08:42:29 am
[K̴̳͂e̸͉̍ȩ̵̃p̶͚͍̋ ̶̯̳̀̇m̸̡͗e̸̩̍̈́ ̵͇͗͌s̴̲̎ẗ̷̖́a̵̲̼͌̈n̴͙̠͝d̸͔͂̅í̸̘͝ñ̸̬g̵̳̅̽.̴̞͛]
I say we dual wield two of the burner pistols and overload both of them into the big thing at the same time.+1 aim for its main head
+1 - Straight into the screaming maw.
(but er, maybe take the scant time to aim-and-fire one pistol then the other? Dual-wielding is hard.)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 08:56:09 am
Well now.+1
[K̴̳͂e̸͉̍ȩ̵̃p̶͚͍̋ ̶̯̳̀̇m̸̡͗e̸̩̍̈́ ̵͇͗͌s̴̲̎ẗ̷̖́a̵̲̼͌̈n̴͙̠͝d̸͔͂̅í̸̘͝ñ̸̬g̵̳̅̽.̴̞͛]I say we dual wield two of the burner pistols and overload both of them into the big thing at the same time.+1 aim for its main head
+1 - Straight into the screaming maw.
(but er, maybe take the scant time to aim-and-fire one pistol then the other? Dual-wielding is hard.)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 02:48:20 pm
[11-1 vs 10] [12-1] You pull a las-pistol from your bandolier, lifting it towards the beast and overloading it, all in one smooth motion. It creaks in your hands from the strain of the internal energy, before spitting forth a focused beam of fire that burns a hole in the Colossus' sinuous body. So focused are you on the arithmetic, that you don't notice the tentacle that whips around. An arc of energy spreads out over your shield, the percussion of the two fields of energy sending you sprawling into the paved streets. Your shield, barely recharged, shatters once more.
[12-1 vs 5][8-1][14] The next pistol is out of the bandolier before you even rise to your feet, and it burns through the Colossus' face with a sickening sizzle. A focused beam of light burning into the dusty air above the city. You dodge forward, just in time to avoid one of those swinging tentacles and the arc of electricity that follows it. The creature opens its mouth, the static pouring forth increasing. You notice that some of your soldiers drop to their knees, clutching their ears, screaming. You can see why-- it hurts, and complicates the complex arithmetic of your functions.
[///...]
[11-2 vs 12] You peel another pistol-- and you scream, as those scouring tentacles slam into your chest and send you into the plaza's stonework with a sickening thud, the electricity arcing through you. You try to scramble to your knees, but stumble, as you try to breath. Your chest is numb, and your lungs--your lungs refuse to draw in air. Your armor is cracked and scored by the blow, and you hate to think what your chest would resemble if you didn't have it.
[Severe burns, nerve damage. Oxygen levels plummeting-- please hold. Chestplate broken. Insufficient nutrients to repair. Prioritizing lungs.]
[14]You scramble out of the way of the Colossus' path as it finally coils itself out of its egg, slamming its back-end into the ground where you once stood, the earth cracking beneath its blow. You finally gasp in a breath, your lungs working again, and nearly choke as you greedily inhale.
The two of you size each other up, the feral intelligence in it's eyes showing hesitation.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 03:01:00 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 04:59:14 pm
Also, cut off our ears.
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 05:27:22 pm
cut off our ears.
O_o
I'll grant our Healing Factor makes for some neat possibilities, but I don't think cutting off the external portions of our ears would actually deafen us right now. (Also, gah.)
Use inferno to fly out of range of the tentacles. Then, continue to fire overloads into it from range. Eat and inject more Ballistic.
+1 to the rest of this tho.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 05:31:09 pm
Edit: nevermind, saw the edit. Looks good to me.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 05:37:56 pm
Use inferno to fly out of range of the tentacles. Then, continue to fire overloads into it from range. Eat and inject more Ballistic.+1Also, cut off our ears.
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 05:43:32 pm
[Stop my ears.]
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 05:46:38 pm
Right, fine. A bit of hearing loss would be nice right now. Let's see if we can't find a less immediately horrifying way of doing that tho?+1
[Stop my ears.]
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 05:48:05 pm
That works.+1, I’d this doesn’t work, I guess it;s cutting timeRight, fine. A bit of hearing loss would be nice right now. Let's see if we can't find a less immediately horrifying way of doing that tho?+1
[Stop my ears.]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 05:50:54 pm
Are you sure you want to eat in the middle of combat?
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 05:55:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 05:56:04 pm
Don't eat.+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 06:09:47 pm
Spoiler: Randomly generated inspiring image (click to show/hide)
Thanks, Inspiribot.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 06:12:37 pm
Also this (https://generated.inspirobot.me/a/NBP5rDkz61.jpg), which I will now place in the appropriate thread (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=164651.0)
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 06:22:47 pm
We need more information.
What's this thing's body structure like anyway? How many tentacles has it got, and how long? How's it move itself about?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 06:23:55 pm
...right. I feel like without additional sustenance (not really an option right now), we just don't have the power left over for Inferno flight.focus on dodging it while we perform the analysis
We need more information.
What's this thing's body structure like anyway? How many tentacles has it got, and how long? How's it move itself about?
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 06:24:22 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 06:27:43 pm
I think we should be able to handle it, as inferno is one of our strongest abilities.sure, but we are super hungry right now
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 06:44:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 07:10:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 07:42:07 pm
Use inferno to propel ourself out of range of the tentacles. Inject more Ballistic.
How about this, and then we'll evaluate the situation from there?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 07:46:34 pm
+1Use inferno to propel ourself out of range of the tentacles. Inject more Ballistic.
How about this, and then we'll evaluate the situation from there?
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 07:51:25 pm
That works. +1+1Use inferno to propel ourself out of range of the tentacles. Inject more Ballistic.
How about this, and then we'll evaluate the situation from there?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 08:06:31 pm
The Colossus is a good [thirty feet] long, and about a third of that wide. [Ten feet], at any one time, is coiled beneath it to give it stability. It's a bright red, like fresh blood, and its moist hide is covered with the twisted visages of human faces. Dozens of eyes line its 'face' and spiral down maddeningly to the main parting of its body, where it splits off into sinuous, twisting tentacles. It's missing one cluster of arms, but it has many more spreading out like a radiant from the center of its body, what you would perhaps call its torso. Shocks of electricity arc out from its various appendages as they convulse and writhe. Its presence causes distortions in the local electromagnetic field. The static it emits is loud enough to feel in your bones, and only the Thorntons seem unaffected, holding the line, while your soldiers, the weak of will and wounded turn combat knives on themselves-- trying to carve out their ears in a panic. In its eyes gleams a strange intelligence. Especially as it twists away from you into the plaza proper, crushing some of your slower troops.
[1]It's examining you in turn, pausing in its ferocious assault. The static twists itself into you, and you hear it, hear it as clearly as you can, E̟̣̺̠̖̼͂̌̄́͠ͅm̼ͧͨ̾͞p̸̬̽̆͑ͩ́͊̾ͣ̿͘͢y̴̲̱͉̿ͭ̂͗ͯͤͯŗͭ͋͏̻̺͝e͛ͤ̓̿̀̃͗͢͝҉̖̣̬͚̺̳a̧̢̖̩̩̖͉̻ͪ͌͛̍͊l͉̯͎̟̰͉͉̝͆͂ͪ͊̾.̴͇͕̰̫̞̖͙̍͐̑͘͝ ̹̰ͣ̋͆͋ͮ̾͢M̷͚͍̼͊ͥ̕c̸̬̹͗͂̋̓̐ͯ̅͒̐C̱͙̦̬̾̔͋̅ͮ͟͝ŕ̖̼̜̍̐͠ĕ͉̻͕̦̝̻̹̥͋ͨ̈́́͋ͬ̾á͉̺̣̒ͬͮ̋ͫ̋̿r̸̦̙̠͕̿̿̈͜y̸͙̮͕͍̥ͦ͛͊̽́ͅ.̟͂͂̀ ͎̤̺̰ͧC̸̫̟̤̻̳ͣͭ̓̽ͧ̓͒͠͠ͅỏ̝̦̟̮̀̈͡ň̈́͐ͦ͆̃̇҉̷͙̼͉͝s̛͚̝̥̞͕̩̏ͮ̌̌u̴̝̣ͯ́̋ͥ͋̎̉m̞̖̬̖̤̥̊̏͊͐̄e̺̐ͬͣ̐ͥͩ.̸̡̳̳̪̦̉ͫ̎̒͘
[5 vs 11] Its torso bulges, and you try to slip out of the way as it inhales through too many mouths-- but it tracks your flight through the plaza, and it exhales. The screech hits you full blast-- and it isn't simply a noise. Its a complex string of gibberish code and a vocal assault on your very willpower. It disorientates you, blinds you, makes your limbs turn to jelly or into twitching, convulsing things that respond to no commands. Your brain attempts to process the data, and in doing so, the Colossus short-circuits it. Images flash through your mind-- a burning plague ship, turning into a fireball on impact, the hunger, the pain, the Great Disconnect...
You collapse, and the wurm slithers closer.
[Sadil. S-S-Sadil--mult-....[ERROR]]
[6 vs 4] William grabs you from the crater you lay slumped in, scooping you up and hurling you into a nearby pile of rubble for cover with surprising force. The blow drives the air from your lungs, and you're fairly sure you broke a rib, but considering the tentacle that crashes down where the two of you once stood, you suppose it's better than your entire body. You twitch a finger, then an arm, slowly regaining control as your vision swims. William's las-rifle impacts the creature's eyes, carefully placed shots made by the man as he slowly jogs away from you. Your soldiers turn their attention away from the barricades to help lay down suppressing fire on the creature. It screams in static once more, swinging a long tentacle and sending soldiers flying or rending them apart.
[17 vs 10] William keeps it distracted while you recover, narrowly avoiding those rending limbs with a grace that surprises you from an eight foot tall, heavily armored super-soldier. He takes careful shots, meant to aggravate, picking off eyes like they're targets on a range. No shot is wasted.
Your right arm comes back to your control, and with a shaking hand, you grab some ballistic from your kit, popping it into your number, lifeless arm. It only takes a minute for the world to become vibrant, for your senses to sharpen, for your body to start shaking with energy and adrenaline. Your mind races. Unable to do anything else, you choke down a nutrient cube, coughing some of it up as your mouth refuses to chew that quickly.
[10 vs 18] William's luck runs out as you rise to your feet-- a tentacle catches across his chest, and sends him spiraling into the ruins. You see blood, and the Thorntons break off from their spirited defense of the barricade to cover him-- only for them to be knocked into the rubble or ripped apart.
[///. ERROR..]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 08:15:20 pm
Let's try hitting it with some earth manipulation spikes for a change of pace, in the torso where I assume its more important organs are. Maybe we'll be able to do more damage that way.
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 08:23:33 pm
Let's make this good.
We're gonna call up whatever love for this world and its people we still have, and we're gonna put one spike straight through the ungodly torso of our enemy. Maybe we can pin it to the ground.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 08:25:24 pm
[Begin troubleshooting of Mark 15 Battle Armor.]+1
Let's try hitting it with some earth manipulation spikes for a change of pace, in the torso where I assume its more important organs are. Maybe we'll be able to do more damage that way.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 08:38:48 pm
[13 vs 2] You kneel down as the Colossus turns it's attention back to you. It's maw opens, showing dozens of razor sharp teeth that gleam dark gray, dripping with infectious ooze. You pour your willpower into the earth, putting everything you have into it.
[20] And everything that you hope happens does. A massive sharp spike splits out of the plaza's cracked and torn surface, spiking Ito the creature's face.
Out of the corner of your eye, you notice something emerge from the rubble. William staggers to his feet, his helmet off as blood pools beneath him from his shredded torso. He still holds his las-rifle, albeit in one hand, as the other hangs limply from his side. He staggers, before his legs lock, his body tilting forward.
It screams, a gout of gray ooze pouring from the grievous impalement. It rips part of it's body out from the spike, ripping a deeper wound in itself that pours ooze to the ground below. It screams again, chest filling with air as tentacles lash out at you.
[/....]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relationships (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 08:45:01 pm
Attempt further earth manipulation spikes, with an eye towards severing limbs/extremities.
I think it's in its death throes.
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 08:58:09 pm
...I hate you guys.
And we fear you. How endearing. :))
"Hold steady! Victory is within our grasp! Give everything to the Holy SEED!"
Attempt further earth manipulation spikes, with an eye towards severing limbs/extremities.
I think it's in its death throes.
+1
Although... for the love of all, get out of the way of those flying tentacles first.
Once we kill this thing (assuming we do kill this thing), we really should try and channel a Healing Surge through William. Guy got himself slashed to ribbons on our behalf.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 09:02:32 pm
+1....I hate you guys.
And we fear you. How endearing. :))"Hold steady! Victory is within our grasp! Give everything to the Holy SEED!"
Attempt further earth manipulation spikes, with an eye towards severing limbs/extremities.
I think it's in its death throes.
+1
Although... for the love of all, get out of the way of those flying tentacles first.
Once we kill this thing (assuming we do kill this thing), we really should try and channel a Healing Surge through William. Guy got himself slashed to ribbons on our behalf.
That guy is awesome. He deserves a promotion or something.
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 09:12:56 pm
'Course, I suspect he's gonna die before we get to him. That'll be fun to explain to Emma, if we ever get the chance. :-\
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 09:17:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 09:19:21 pm
[20] It charges, tentacles lashing, too fast, too hard, too quick to dodge without losing focus. So you don't. A spike slams forth into the Colossus just as it's tentacles smash into your arm, shredding into your flesh as you futilely tried to ward away the blow. You are spent sprawling in a gout of blood.
[Hand dismemberment detected. Massive lacerations across arm, chest. Bone deep. No Infection detected. Exsanguination in...five minutes. Nutrient levels low. Shock in three minutes.]
[7][Healing...ERROR! UNABLE TO ACCESS. SEEK OUT MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.]
The Colossus squirms futilely, weakly. It's eyes are fixed and full of primal hate. You stare back, mirroring the entity's hatred, even as you know you're bleeding out.
W̼͕͍̣̯̬̳̜̓̌̇̄ḙ̡̛̘̮̺̼̬̼͙̓͂̊'̼̲̠̜̓̓̊ͫ͛ļ̵͎ͩ̏ͧͤ̂͂̃ͩ̒ľ̼̹̦̳̜̭͓ͭ̄ͯ͊̚ ̄͏̶̤̲̱͉͍m̶̙͇̳̟͚͚̳͌̉̋̋̇̈́͐̽́e̡̳͑͆̕e̸̥̪͙̳͉̥̱̝̿ͣ̄̿ͫ̈́̅͆́t̶̰̬̫̹̫̲͆̐̅̅̌ͦ̅͋͞ ̷̞̪̜̫̫͇̜̯̓ͧͤ̄̂͒́͞a̴̞̗͉̯̤̥̠̥͂̑̓̉̏g̩̬̯͕ͩ͑̓͌̓ͫͪ̕͠â̟̯͍ͫͩ͗̅́̿͋̉͝í̻̯̭͕̻̦̾̕͘͠n͙͉̺ͬ͂͂
Unconsciousness drifts up to greet you, embracing you like a long lost friend.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 09:24:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 09:26:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 09:33:10 pm
You awaken to jostling, and you feel awful. You're on a cot, and you feel yourself accelerating. William sits beside you, a stump of a torso. His chest is in ribbons, medics attending to him in a panic. He stops breathing, and the medics get their hands bloody as they start to do compressions.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 09:36:44 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 27, 2020, 09:40:46 pm
Do what we must to save William, save only the expense of our own life.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 09:41:21 pm
I'm done distrusting him. For better or for worse, he's a brother now.+1
Do what we must to save William, save only the expense of our own life.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 27, 2020, 09:44:25 pm
+1I'm done distrusting him. For better or for worse, he's a brother now.+1
Do what we must to save William, save only the expense of our own life.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 09:50:59 pm
"Transfuse my blood into him." You choke out, and the medic stares.
"Mother Alphira-- I don't think you two are capa-- you've lost too much blood!"
"DO IT NOW." He's breathing again, and you feel nothing as you're crudely rolled over and stuck with a needle. You watch your blood flow through the tube-- and feel weaker, weaker. You drift back into unconsciousness, your last waking sight is William convulsing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 27, 2020, 10:22:47 pm
"Father?"
"Promise me, Alphira. It weakens us, this division. It gives rise to abominations, to twisted beasts shaped like us with the minds of many. It is an...unclean act. It's inhuman for us to to give life this way, to put them beneath us by virtue of the essence, to write ourselves into their will."
"Do you regret making me, Father?"
"I regret nothing, Alphira."
...
Good thing we're already an oath breaker, eh?
You awaken in your compound's hospital, the familiar pale green tiled walls filling you with a sense of comfort. Emma lays sleeping beside you, eyes puffy. Hair greasy and unwashed...she shifts in her sleep. You take stock of yourself. You're swaddled in bandages, all of them bloody. You flex your left hand-- and find it missing. You're in pain, you know, but your conscious mind does not feel it. Your headaches and throbs, and you feel a great hunger.
Post by: ZBridges on March 27, 2020, 10:25:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 05:45:19 am
Y'know what? Let's let Emma sleep in a bit-- she probably needs it right now anyway.
Can we move our other arm, or is it strapped down by bandages and whatnot?
Is Lucille still with us?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 06:56:57 am
Not a double vote, just showing what I voted for+1I think we may have just made an Empyreal of William. :o+1
Y'know what? Let's let Emma sleep in a bit-- she probably needs it right now anyway.
Can we move our other arm, or is it strapped down by bandages and whatnot?
Is Lucille still with us?
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 06:59:20 am
I’m sure it’ll be fine, he would still have his mind, right? I’m sure he would rather not be dead
Oh, he's gonna be pleased as punch. The ramifications for us are... unsettling.
”Can I have some nutrient cubes from my pack, or was it destroyed in the battle?”
I imagine we'll eat soon as somebody realizes we're conscious. These people oughta know how we work now.
Post by: King Zultan on March 28, 2020, 12:16:09 pm
I think we may have just made an Empyreal of William. :o+1
Y'know what? Let's let Emma sleep in a bit-- she probably needs it right now anyway.
Can we move our other arm, or is it strapped down by bandages and whatnot?
Is Lucille still with us?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 12:24:49 pm
+1I think we may have just made an Empyreal of William. :o+1
Y'know what? Let's let Emma sleep in a bit-- she probably needs it right now anyway.
Can we move our other arm, or is it strapped down by bandages and whatnot?
Is Lucille still with us?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 02:52:09 pm
You put down four bowls before you feel full, and the medic checks your vital signs, noting them down and as he leaves, comparing them to your baseline. A clever little invention by Silas, the measurements taken over a week of calm for future medical emergencies like this. Zachary steps into the room, gesturing to a seat beside the door away from the sleeping Emma.
"Mother Alphira. I'm glad to see you awake." He does look happy, to his credit, but there's a vague uncertainty about him, "I'm glad you answered our prayers, especially after news from the battlefield reached us."
Finally he breathes a sigh, "I've never been good with delivering bad news, Mother Alphira, and I hate to have to start getting good at it. Rodstadt fell after they evacuated you. I'm told your battalions were all destroyed, with half of the Thornton Mercs and only a few others as survivors. Major Anderson, Gem Thornton, and the other officers all fell in the retreat. The encirclement under Maxwell later reclaimed the city, and purged it of the Infection."
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 02:58:38 pm
"And William?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 03:09:48 pm
Healing Surge.+1 let’s try regrowing our hand
"And William?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 04:07:52 pm
"He...seems perfectly fine. A miraculous recovery. He's at the range, right now actually. I think he got tired of waiting for you to wake up-- he and Emma stayed beside your bed for a long time. I guess he got bored."
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 04:11:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 04:12:58 pm
"Ahh good."
"What is the current status of the war? Have we lost ground?"
+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 04:14:44 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 04:15:33 pm
Now why did I...?
Yeah. My mistake. Edited.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 04:19:30 pm
Zachary shrugs again. "I'm glad you're back Mother Alphira, and I'm sorry for your..." He gestures to your hand. "The Pontifex was listening in to the meetings of the Elders. They think that if you weren't there that the Holy City would be under assault from that...thing. By now. They hoped that destroying it would cause the Plague to cease, but it hasn't." He rises to his feet, "I must take my leave, if that's okay, Mother Alphira."
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 04:23:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 04:24:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 04:25:05 pm
“One last question, was my armor reclaimed? Was it able to be repaired?”+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 04:28:27 pm
They sent us to battle that thing on purpose.
...
I mean, I get why they sent us to battle that thing. Alphira's gonna be mad tho.
“One last question, was my armor reclaimed?”
+1
No need to ask about repairs-- recall, these people can't work VOID steel. I imagine Lucille will patch herself once we've the nutrition stored to feed her repairs.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 04:32:23 pm
"McFee took charge of...polishing it, and repairing your underlay. Said she couldn't do anything for the damages. Said you'd handle it if you woke up."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 04:33:39 pm
...they knew that thing was there.oh yeah, I somehow forgot about that, +1 to this sans repair question
They sent us to battle that thing on purpose.
...
I mean, I get why they sent us to battle that thing. Alphira's gonna be mad tho.“One last question, was my armor reclaimed?”
+1
No need to ask about repairs-- recall, these people can't work VOID steel. I imagine Lucille will patch herself once we've the nutrition stored to feed her repairs.
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 04:39:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 04:42:24 pm
"Thank you. I will see to it later. For now, I must rest."
+1
Relax. Wait on Emma's waking. After two days of fire and death... this is nice.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 04:59:19 pm
Zachary bows at the hips and puts his cap back on, heading out, and you wait a moment. You stay seated channeling your willpower into your hand- visualizing it.
[17][11][12] The pain doubles you over, and you grit your teeth not to scream. You peel away the bandage quickly as blood begins to drip from the stump. Then, blackness begins to worm its way from your stump, a dusty gas that surrounds where your hand used to be. It starts to take shape into the bones of your missing hand, condensing. Then, from it, the white bone begins to grow around the black, shifting, dusty material, sealing some of it away beneath a coating. The cloud produces muscle and nerve that creep across the bone from your stump. Then, in much the same way, veins begin to pump blood to it. Finally, fresh, pink skin emerges, and the dust falls to the floor, inert. It evaporates into the air quickly after that.
You're left there, curled in pain and hungry. You are slow to rise, heading back to the cart to devour more food. Your side still vaguely aches, so you don't think you healed everything. However, with the pain from regrowing a -hand- still fresh in your mind, you snuggle up to Emma, drifting off back to sleep.
William and Silas wake you up a few hours later, and you notice Emma's warmth is gone from the bed. You look over William, about to complain, only to stop when you look at him. His face has changed. looking more androgenous, some of his masculinity smoothed off. He seems roughly the same height as you now, being shorter before. But what really catches your eye are his. They're a bright, electric blue...and is that red coming in patches in at his blond roots?
A number of emotions shift across his face rapidly when you awaken. Anger. Fear. Respect...and the most surprising is eventually deference. "Ph--..." He hesitates. You don't think you've ever seen him hesitate. "Alphira?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 05:02:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 05:05:49 pm
"Phoebe. Alphira's... watching."
"William-- did I-- are you--?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 05:19:53 pm
Silas nods, smiling widely like a kid in a candy store. William looks a little more uncomfortable, rubbing at his head. "She...you're in here...too." He explains, awkwardly. "I'm just going to ignore them." He finally states, rubbing at his face with a gloved hand, "It seems easier than having to deal with listening to them."
"I'm sorry, Billy. It was the only way to save your lif--"
"Don't apologize. By the medic's accounts...I would be dead right now. I died several times, but eventually stabilized after...the transfusion. The thing I'm most concerned about...is how to tell my dad...that the Thornton line might die out."
You look confused, raising a brow. William looks embarrassed, glancing to Silas, who explains, gently, "Whatever this...process is, it makes you sterile." William winces and flushes, rubbing at the back of his head and rising to his feet with a clank of limbs.
"My prostheses aren't coming off anymore, either." He peels away a glove, to reveal the dark black metal beneath. "They put them on when I was first admitted to have better holds while moving me, and when I woke up I realized I couldn't remove them anymore." He walks over to the wall, pacing, for once, there's no smile on his face. "They're stronger, too. I don't think I'm stronger than you, though. Maybe more durable..." Finally, he snaps, "Oh shut up!"
He flushes again, glancing to you, "I always thought you were nuts. I see why."
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 05:24:27 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 05:24:44 pm
"Good grief, I gave you her? There's no apology I could make for that."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 05:38:44 pm
He looks at you again though, and the smile drains, replaced once more by that look of deference. "I...I understand a lot about you, now, Pheobe. Maybe too much. There are other worlds than this, isn't there? Everything in my life...seems so microscopic now. The feats...the things we could do together."
With a wicked grin forming, "I don't know if I should punch you in your face or drop to my knees and pray to you." His metallic hand forms into a fist, and he closes his eyes. Blood begins to drip from his nose, his features curling in pain, even as he starts to sway. Eventually, a small reaction coalesces in his hand. Heat radiates out from an invisible hydrogen flame. "This is power." He slurs, looking triumphant. You reach out with your willpower, and feel his in turn. Similiar. Very similar. But weaker. Far weaker. He's exerting himself immensely to do something that you can now do with ease.
He's missing too many of his bones to be as powerful as us, Patches. Those limbs he wears are too much a part of his identity to regrow new ones. The...VOID incorporated them as part of him, but they cannot produce new 'dust' like we can, I'm sure.
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 05:41:32 pm
That's probably for the best.
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 05:48:12 pm
"It's... a pale shadow, Will. But I'm glad you're alive. After what you did for me out there... I'm glad you're alive."+1
That's probably for the best.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 05:55:36 pm
Smart. And he's pretty and strong. If he were weaker, we'd be dealing with a feral beast at this point, overwhelmed by the lack of identity...I want him..
"I...want to ask a favor, Pheobe." William glances to Silas, who looks uncomfortable, "I want to kill my Father and his loyalists. They're short-sighted, cruel. Stupid. They'll hold the Thornton name back, back on this speck of dust when a universe awaits it. Please," He begs, "Please help me with this."
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 06:00:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 06:33:13 pm
"By the way, how's she taking your-- transformation?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 06:50:09 pm
"My father is withholding the technology and expertise to -win- this war."
William pauses when you ask about his sister, giving a dark chuckle, "I think she's jealous."
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 07:02:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 07:21:44 pm
Hmm. I agree that we should check in with Emma first, but if doing that would improve the war effort, it is tempting.
Yeah, I'm all for it-- but it's really not our decision to make.
"Jealous! I'd do the same for her in a heartbeat."
"I... really need to speak with her, actually." (Pick ourself up.) "Could you point me to the right place?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 07:34:51 pm
+1Hmm. I agree that we should check in with Emma first, but if doing that would improve the war effort, it is tempting.
Yeah, I'm all for it-- but it's really not our decision to make.
"Jealous! I'd do the same for her in a heartbeat."
"I... really need to speak with her, actually." (Pick ourself up.) "Could you point me to the right place?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 07:46:00 pm
"Cafeteria." William offers. "Have fun."
You go where he directs, that is, after a brief stop to your bedroom for something more substantial than the cheap poly gown you had on. You feel better, strapping yourself into your uniform. More comfortable.
Emma is sitting over a plate of pancakes, looking up at you and giving a wave. You approach, sitting next to her, and she leans into you. "You regrew a hand. I get so worried and you always spring back. How's your head, though? I'm sure you've heard about Rodstadt by now."
She pushes a newspaper over to you. "They all say it's a stunning victory, but..."
Spoiler: A Holy City newspaper (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 07:52:34 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 08:01:19 pm
"No need to worry about me. I'm fine. Well, I suppose the propaganda wing of SEED is doing a good job, but it wasn't really a victory. Casualties neared 100%. It was brutal. I still see some of the soldiers when I close my eyes."+1
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 08:13:19 pm
"No need to worry about me. I'm fine. Well, I suppose the propaganda wing of SEED is doing a good job, but it wasn't really a victory. Casualties neared 100%. It was brutal."
+1-- take our time with the words tho. There's a fine line between reassuring and condescending, and a fine line between shell-shock and a boast.
"I still see some of the soldiers when I close my eyes."
Do we tho?
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 08:16:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 28, 2020, 08:16:52 pm
We doing the PTSD thing, hm?+1 to the top part, -1 to the bottom part"No need to worry about me. I'm fine. Well, I suppose the propaganda wing of SEED is doing a good job, but it wasn't really a victory. Casualties neared 100%. It was brutal."
+1-- take our time with the words tho. There's a fine line between reassuring and condescending, and a fine line between shell-shock and a boast."I still see some of the soldiers when I close my eyes."
Do we tho?
I don’t think we need to lie
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 08:27:28 pm
I mean, that was pretty tough. I don't think most people could see that sort of death and not be bothered by it.
Sure-- I'm curious as to the actual extent of the mental damage, is all. Maybe we're just shaken up a bit. Maybe we really do have a brand-new recurring daymare to deal with. I suspect that's up to the dice more than it is to us.
...or maybe I shouldn't be giving the GM ideas? :-X
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 08:37:07 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 08:46:39 pm
"No need to worry about me. I'm fine. Well, I suppose the propaganda wing of SEED is doing a good job, but it wasn't really a victory. Casualties neared 100%. It was brutal. I still see some of the soldiers when I close my eyes."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 08:57:18 pm
[4]A soldier's life is to die where they are told...I hope they died standing. You agree with Alphira, surprising both of you.
[18] You know there's something wrong with your brain, at this point, and how you view your fellow soldiers.
"No need to worry about me. I'm fine. Well, I suppose the propaganda wing of SEED is doing a good job, but it wasn't really a victory. Casualties neared one hundred percent... It was brutal..."
"I figured as much," Emma murmurs, wrapping an arm around you. "I'm just glad you're okay. That's all that matters in the end."
Post by: ZBridges on March 28, 2020, 09:00:01 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on March 28, 2020, 09:55:19 pm
Insects cant be killed by the laser guns, only the abominations. But most of the abominations, at least the most dangerous ones, are soldiers who had lasguns.
The tactics seem to be feeding the horde. We never saw the tactics up close before but now it can be certain the ones they are using are terrible.
We can not feel guilty over all the deaths but we can not ignore it.
Why is artillery so poorly used. Why do they not have advanced communications, even just short range radio.
If the insects create the [demons] though nesting how many more might be out there behind the front lines?
That wasn't the king of the dead, that was an infant.
We need better weapons, something that can fire an entire lasgun blast worth of energy like an automatic rifle if we power it or a man portable tank energy cannon. One of those blades but much larger and heavier, since we can use it.
I think a key thing while we are healing is to get every general and advisors together and go over new battle plans. And execute any who do not agree to follow the new plans.
Post by: Superdorf on March 28, 2020, 10:09:26 pm
Huh. You were right. We're tougher than I thought.
Some people get flashbacks. Some people just kind of... shut down. Some people do both. Trauma is weird.
We do seem to be a bit messed up from the experience-- you were right on that count. Is just manifesting differently.
*snip*
Good stuff. We have a game plan.
"could say the same for you"
...
"...I think I broke your brother."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 28, 2020, 10:21:03 pm
"...He said thank you to me earlier today. For watching you..." Emma scratches at her face, "It's...weird. He hasn't said thank you to me in ten years...He woke up well before you did, and I swear he was at your side the whole time after."
"What did you do to him?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 02:44:09 am
"It was a blood transfusion, and I think it saved his life. As for how that affected him... I think he's like me now. He does seem... different."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 03:36:30 am
"SEED...that explains a lot." When you simply sit there, bemused, Emma shakes her head at you. She smiles wryly as she begins to explain, "The...Families, or, as SEED calls them, Warlords...Businessmen. They're different than the general population. My father always taught us that the Families were here before SEED."
You raise your brow, and she waves a hand. "I don't know if its true or not, but there are differences between Families and the people of SEED. But all it revolves around, from what I've studied, is how the two cultures create contracts. With the people of SEED, contracts are made in the name of...-their- God. With some Families, not all of them, though, contracts are made with 'blood'. Either the spilled blood of the enemy, your own blood being spilled for someone else, so on. Metaphors."
"I think it started from some vague threat and blossomed out over time as myths and legend and culture are wont to do. It's still a threat, don't get me wrong, but now the Families that follow that view anybody within their group as blood relatives, hence why all of our troops and high-level retainers take the Thornton last name."
"You can see where I'm going with this, right? Coupled with...whatever your blood did to him..." She pauses, staring at you wide-eyed, "Did William rescue you? Is that how he got all tore up?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 03:49:15 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 29, 2020, 03:54:56 am
"I realize now what the implications are... He did save me several times and put his life in great danger. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. Honestly, he deserves a commendation."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 04:02:42 am
[7] You think she's hinting at something, but for the life of you, you can't figure it out.
Emma leans into you more, puffing out a sigh equal parts contentment and exasperation. "What part of any of that made it seem like he would care for any higher commendation than sharing the [magic, superstition, primitive science] blood of an Angel? William is devoted to the concept like you used to be devoted to SEED. He already feels indebted to you to the point where he's trying to be nice to us."
[5] "You completely validated his qausi-religious world view." Emma finally offers, with a sigh. "I just hope it doesn't go to his head."
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 04:09:22 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 29, 2020, 04:10:45 am
"You're right, he seems happy, but something about it is making me uneasy. Do you think this change is an improvement or a disaster waiting to happen?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 04:20:57 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 04:25:44 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 04:59:11 am
"I'm more concerned than jealous if I'm being honest. William always took my toys growing up. I might have to undo all your hard work if he tries to continue that trend." She offers you some of her pancakes
[20] "You're all mine, my love." Emma continues, smiling as you give in and take a bite from the offered fork. "And I know nothing will change that. I'll make sure of it."
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 02:50:16 pm
"You won't have to." (Smile.) "William's made himself into a subservient, an acolyte-- you're more than that. You'll always be more than that."
...
"I do have to figure out what to do with him, though. He's got the same voices in his brain now as I do, and they're whispering in his ear something fierce."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 03:26:38 pm
"He's finally decided to kill Father, too." Emma adds, clearing her plate with one final scrape. "It's about damn time."
"Keep him on a leash and sic him on the people who deserve it." Emma finally opines. "Try to keep his crazy in check."
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 03:35:05 pm
"He told you about his plans, I'm glad. He asked me to help, said he'd put more power to the war effort if I did... I'm tempted. I'm tempted. I told him I'd be asking you first."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 04:16:52 pm
"Just let him pull the trigger, is all I ask. I don't think I want to know my girlfriend killed my father on my brother's orders. That'll be too weird, even for me."
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 04:49:27 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 05:05:32 pm
"Let's just hope that he isn't a fool."
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 05:38:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 05:41:44 pm
---
"I'll tell William I expect a bloodless victory, or as close to it as possible-- with the state he's in, he should be willing to listen."
"I just need to ask my superiors for permission. Hopefully they'll understand that it will help the war effort."
And say this.
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 05:42:24 pm
"I understand. I understand."+1
---
"I'll tell William I expect a bloodless victory, or as close to it as possible-- with the state he's in, he should be willing to listen.""I just need to ask my superiors for permission. Hopefully they'll understand that it will help the war effort."
And say this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 06:04:57 pm
+1"I understand. I understand."+1
---
"I'll tell William I expect a bloodless victory, or as close to it as possible-- with the state he's in, he should be willing to listen.""I just need to ask my superiors for permission. Hopefully they'll understand that it will help the war effort."
And say this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 06:43:36 pm
[12] "I started a week ago when William first approached me about it." Emma brags, taking a seat at the desk and starting through some other paperwork. "I'd love for you to see where I grew up, anyway."
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 06:47:22 pm
...
"...my coma. How long was I out?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 06:48:54 pm
"A week--"+1
...
"...my coma. How long was I out?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 06:53:55 pm
+1"A week--"+1
...
"...my coma. How long was I out?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 07:00:52 pm
"You were asleep for nearly a month, Pheobe...But you just slept. Silas said you were in hibernation, like...like a mountain rabbit. It was all we could do to keep changing the bandages and hope you wouldn't bleed to death in the meantime." She doesn't seem clear on the specifics, explaining the best she can. "They took out your saline drip yesterday when you started warming up again. Silas giggled like a little girl when you proved him right."
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 07:02:30 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 07:16:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 07:25:04 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 07:31:20 pm
I suppose they think they haven't gotten enough use of us yet.
They're right. They'll lose this war without our continued aid, and they know it.
Sigh. "Right."
Speak soft. "A month... so long, and so long for you! I didn't realize-- I didn't realize--"
Hugs.
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 07:35:53 pm
+1I suppose they think they haven't gotten enough use of us yet.
They're right. They'll lose this war without our continued aid, and they know it.
Sigh. "Right."
Speak soft. "A month... so long, and so long for you! I didn't realize-- I didn't realize--"
Hugs.
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 07:43:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 07:45:30 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 07:54:51 pm
Five months.
"I honestly didn't expect you back so soon. It was good to see you-- even if you were a mess when you arrived." With a grin, returning your hug, she adds, "I'm getting used to it, I guess, as long as you keep springing back like you do, Pheobe."
"Just keep coming back." Emma returns your hug even more tightly, leaning up to kiss you. Her hand comes to caress your side-- and she draws it back suddenly, breaking the kiss to look at the blood on her hand. Then she scowls, as she begins to lecture you, more concerned than genuine anger, "You're walking around without fully healing first?! Back to medical- go! And if you do that healing thing in the hallway, change your uniform!"
"Talk about a mood killer." Emma grumbles, rising to gesture you out the door, wiping the blood off on her napkin with annoyance.
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 08:17:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 09:22:30 pm
"Thanks Emma, I can always count on you to take care of me. And don't worry, I will be back."
And this for a parting line.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 09:23:37 pm
"Oh-- oh." (Assume a properly sheepish expression.) "Right." Make for the doorway.+1"Thanks Emma, I can always count on you to take care of me. And don't worry, I will be back."
And this for a parting line.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 10:45:40 pm
With a glance back to her office and the piles of paperwork your sure she still has to wade through, she looks torn, but only briefly. "I'll come to grab you in the afternoon." She graces you with a smile that sets your heart beating faster, probably not helping the bloodstained bandages and reclaims her seat at the desk.
"You're still standing there!" She complains good-naturedly, and you hurry away with a grin.
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 10:52:12 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 10:57:34 pm
We might as well get new bandages and get our wounds re-sutured.+1
How’s our hunger? If we are satisfied, we can try a healing surge
Post by: Superdorf on March 29, 2020, 11:03:09 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 11:15:54 pm
Head back to medical wing, pop the Healing Surge, and we'll reevaluate.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 11:23:54 pm
+1Head back to medical wing, pop the Healing Surge, and we'll reevaluate.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 11:24:29 pm
[18] You strip down, and with a deep breath, your fingers tight on the blood resistant poly-linen, you bring forth your will. Pain burns through you from your side as your focus is diverted, and you hunch over as stitches push themselves out of the barely healed wounds. They are deep, and you're sure some organs must have been damaged, as evidenced by the sheer length of time it takes for you to heal yourself. Blood still drips from your bandages.
[8] Another flash of pain burns through you, as once again heal yourself. It fades much more quickly this time. You peel away the bandages, revealing your raw and red side, still coated in drying blood. The stitches they put in you fall away with the bandages, and you leave them on the bed. You rise on shaky feet, and step into the shower, feeling the burning hot water ease your cramping core muscles as they reconfigure themselves. You're a bit peckish now, but figure that can wait until you finish cleaning yourself.
You touch the fading scars that score your arm, your side. Your body bears no scar tissue that you can see. It sometimes surprises you, but you wonder how you would look if your body kept a tally of every grievous injury that you have sustained. You let the burning hot water wash over you, feeling relaxed as you watch the dried blood wash down the drain.
When you emerge, drying your long hair, you notice that one of the medical personnel has replaced your bloody uniform with a clean one, as well as disposed of the bandages for you-- Silas sits next to the door, patiently. You don't flinch or bother to cover yourself-- he is your lead doctor, now, after all. "I knew you could regrow limbs, Lady Alphira. Your biology is quite amazing. Not only are you a miracle of...science? Magic? Not only that, but you can infect others with your ability, with your mind." There isn't a smile on his face as he speaks, and he fiddles awkwardly with a folder. Despite his uncomfortable movements, his eyes remind you of a hawk, watching a mouse.
"The Plague seems to be of a similar nature, doesn't it?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 11:30:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 29, 2020, 11:35:23 pm
“I’m not the Plague. William is still William, just a different body. His mind is still there. He isn’t;t me, I am not him”+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 29, 2020, 11:38:40 pm
just deleted unneeded ;t“I’m not the Plague. William is still William, just a different body. His mind is still there. He isn’t me, I am not him”+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 29, 2020, 11:53:24 pm
"I am. You're a fascinating subject. Scientifically, of course." Silas adds hastily, reminded of the situation by you raising a brow. To his credit, he doesn't flush or even blink, maintaining a calm demeanor. "I've compiled a file for you, concerning William's changes, but anything you can tell me about yourself or theories about how your body works would be quite helpful."
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 12:13:03 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 12:18:07 am
"There appears to be a part of me, the VOID, that is able to interface with 'angelic' technology and effect changes to my body that would normally be unconscious. For example, it can redirect calories to repair different parts of my body"+1
Post by: King Zultan on March 30, 2020, 04:31:21 am
+1"There appears to be a part of me, the VOID, that is able to interface with 'angelic' technology and effect changes to my body that would normally be unconscious. For example, it can redirect calories to repair different parts of my body"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 05:26:14 am
"If you have any questions, or can come up with anything else...I'm sure we can talk on the way to the 'funeral', or you could write a report for me. And of course, if you need anything, please, let me know." And with that and a stiff bow at the hips, he leaves you alone. You smooth out the wrinkles in your outfit and brush your damp hair over your shoulder. You sit on the bed and pull on your socks and boots carefully.
Now what?
Post by: King Zultan on March 30, 2020, 05:49:10 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 06:41:05 am
Lets read that file.+1
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 02:50:25 pm
+1Lets read that file.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 03:46:02 pm
"I'm glad you view me with such high esteem, Lady Alphira."
You claim a seat on the medical bed and flip through the document. Its roughly organized, but you understand most of it, besides the higher-level technical jargon. Emma could probably explain some of the more complicated subjects to you.
Spoiler: William's Medical Report (click to show/hide)
You rise from the bed, stretching out your limbs as you begin to pace the breadth of your private hospital room, thinking. Then you pause, glancing at that line from the document with a small scowl.
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 04:08:30 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 04:16:49 pm
"Project Alphira." Are the Thorntons planning on experimenting on us?i think that;s referring to the file Silas wrote about us
Which line did we scowl at?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 04:20:49 pm
' is what you were scowling at. I probably should have been more clear in my answer.
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 04:36:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 04:52:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 05:00:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 05:49:48 pm
With a sigh, you lay on the bed and stretch out, listening to the voices debate for a moment, until a familiar pang aches through you. The pain of abandonment. You rise swiftly, crossing the room and heading down the plain corridors to the Armorsmith. The corridors disorientate you, but you eventually find your way there. You armor sits on the central plinth, but you hesitate to approach it.
The breastplate is scored clean through, cracks radiating out in multiple places. The gauntlet is separated from the glove in its entirety, the thin membrane of gold and black that once held them together raggedly torn apart by the blow to your arm. Your weapons lie on the table in front of it-- the cleaned cutter hilt and the las-SMG. You approach the cutter hilt first, more comfortable holding the heavy chunk of tech than the armor that became a second skin. But you feel ill at the thought, concerned...perhaps a little fearful.
Perhaps in the morning... You reason. You glance at the clock nearby, noting that you have eight hours left before Emma and you go buy an outfit for the Thornton Family Funeral.
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 05:55:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 05:58:42 pm
The armor is vital to our continued survival. Put on the glove and assess the suit's status.
+1
Let's go get something to eat first, though. This thing's gonna be pulling a lot of nutrition off us.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 06:01:40 pm
[1 vs 18] No. Firmly.
You have eight hours left before Emma and you go buy an outfit for the Thornton Family Funeral.
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 06:04:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 06:19:51 pm
Regardless, we should still probably go choke down some nutrient paste somewhere. After that... we need to go consult with William about this patricide he's got planned.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 06:33:58 pm
Also that was odd, the no’ing of checking the srmor
We should still find something to eat, whether or not we use the armor
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 06:40:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 06:53:29 pm
[5] The papers are devoted propaganda sources. There's barely any mention of casualties and the mentions that are there downplay the significance. But, as several advertisements show; SEED is recruiting heavily. Debt slaves are being promised freedom and a plot of land in the new to be settled western province-- formerly the no-mans-land. Not to mention a bunch advertising service to SEED...hell, eight out of the ten newspapers in this city town are gossip rags or spout the lines given to them by the administration.
[17] You do notice a follow-up story concerning your supposed love life with a Family-born Emma Thornton, which amuses you to no end, considering that its from the Thornton owned press, and lists a 'anonymous source' from within your compound. But what really makes you laugh is that it's Emma's style of writing.
[11] Many of the patrons seem to be missing limbs. They have crude plastic prostheses. They drink in somber silence, only interrupting it to cheer a name or raise a toast. You can tell, simply by looking at them, the war is going bad. This is no poor man's drinking hall, no speakeasy serving cheap gin. It's close to the hoverport, and these men have the look of the middle class in their clean outfits and careful speech.
[-.20 credits] You order yourself the daily special, the only meal this place sellsl, and the Chef brings it out to you. Baby potatoes, [beast of burden, cow, beef] steak and some assorted fall vegetables. Its salty, and buttery, and delicious, and you eat your fill. The chef might have recognized you. He brings you out an extra loaf of bread and a small, sweet cake that's slightly stale. You pay only for your drink and the meal-- the dessert and bread were free.
[-] You make your way back to the compound, catching the odd eye of the passerby. Occasionally, someone bows, and you dip your head politely.
William is in the range, keeping a burner las-rifle steadily braced with one arm as he lays on the floor. He glances back towards you-- no, it would be better to explain it as he shrinks before you...His willpower, which leaks like a sieve, flees before your's instinctively. He looks momentarily concerned, before, offering, sheepishly, hesitantly. "Its different...seeing you like this."
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 07:05:04 pm
If possible, lessen the intensity of our willpower for a moment. "This new situation will take some getting used to, but I have a feeling that you're going to like it."
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 08:09:03 pm
We need to marshal as much strength as we can. If we can create these supersoldiers with our blood, then perhaps...?
I am... reluctant to wield our own blood so carelessly. If our father's warnings are anything to go by, there's a significance to blood that we don't yet understand-- we could release a plague, or cripple ourself, if we were to give our blood away too freely. We don't know.
Anyway, William. If we're going to make an acolyte of him, we'd better start acting the part.
"Hm. I have shaken your ego, I think." (Smile thin.) "Ego, by which man looks upon the world and declares: 'I AM.' Ego, by which man would become god. You have seen ego made manifest. You are shaken. I regret this."
...
"I have had words with Emma. Let us speak now of patricide."
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 08:15:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 08:18:18 pm
We should tell him that we regret saving his life?i thought the regret was leaving him shaken, maybe we should tell him more about us so he has a better idea about his new body
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 08:25:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 08:38:47 pm
+1. Perhaps tell him about us so he can better understand what he's going through.We need to marshal as much strength as we can. If we can create these supersoldiers with our blood, then perhaps...?
I am... reluctant to wield our own blood so carelessly. If our father's warnings are anything to go by, there's a significance to blood that we don't yet understand-- we could release a plague, or cripple ourself, if we were to give our blood away too freely. We don't know.
Anyway, William. If we're going to make an acolyte of him, we'd better start acting the part.
"Hm. I have shaken your ego, I think." (Smile thin.) "Ego, by which man looks upon the world and declares: 'I AM.' Ego, by which man would become god. You have seen ego made manifest. You are shaken. I regret this."
...
"I have had words with Emma. Let us speak now of patricide."
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 08:42:10 pm
Let's try a revision, with a little more clarity and a little more comfort?
"Hm. I have shaken your ego, I think." (Smile thin.) "Ego, by which man looks upon the world and declares: 'I AM.' Ego, by which man would become god. You have seen ego made manifest. You are shaken. I am regretful, to have shaken you thus."
...
Speak soft. Reassuring-like. "You'll get used to it. You've a spark of the 'I AM' yourself, now-- just enough to open your eyes."
"I have had words with Emma. Let us speak now of patricide."
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 08:46:10 pm
Yeah, was that we regret having had to completely redefine him in the process of saving him-- not that we regret having saved him in first place.+1, though it does sound slightly mad in my opinion.
Let's try a revision, with a little more clarity and a little more comfort?
"Hm. I have shaken your ego, I think." (Smile thin.) "Ego, by which man looks upon the world and declares: 'I AM.' Ego, by which man would become god. You have seen ego made manifest. You are shaken. I am regretful, to have shaken you thus."
...
Speak soft. Reassuring-like. "You'll get used to it. You've a spark of the 'I AM' yourself, now-- just enough to open your eyes."
"I have had words with Emma. Let us speak now of patricide."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 09:17:19 pm
"I'll take that as praise, Pheobe, and I can't express how grateful I am...but it was...more a change in perspective." William explains, softly, after listening to you intently, "I might-- I might -have- been one of the best soldiers on this [planet]. I was training since I could stand. I was taught how to kill ruthlessly, how to crush an enemy stronghold beneath my feet while simultaneously telling everyone else that this is what happens when you fuck with the Thorntons. Do you know how many thousands of credits went into my training? Too many."
"And all it took was one swat from that thing, and my insides were my outsides. My armor tore like paper. My rifle was worthless. I knew I was dead. That was it—one swipe. I didn't want to die like that. Choking on my blood while everyone I cared about died around me." William lines up a shot, the air hisses, and the rifle strikes true, melting a piece of plastic from the training dummy in a pop of plastic. "But did you know what I wanted? To be stronger. To challenge a god of death by myself and -win-."
"And then my prayers were answered." William finishes, glancing back to you, aiming down the cheap iron-sights-- wouldn't they be called plastic sights if they were on a plastic weapon? "The only cost was...my mind, my future children, and my backbone when it comes to you. I still don't know if it was a fair trade."
The rifle gives the soft hiss that one can only hear in tranquil conditions, the coolant rapidly cooling the focusing arrays and transferring away some of the heat and energy vented. The target's head explodes into a little pop of plastic. "I'm hoping there isn't any. That he steps down, he's been sick for ten years now. He trained me to succeed him. It isn't a good time, but it isn't going to get better. If he doesn't step down, I'll challenge him to a duel. Hopefully, to injury."
The Crusader Armorer replaces the target for William, who leans into the barrel, breathing out a short breath. "And if he refuses, then...I'll kill him. I want you there to be back up. Watch my back. Show off that terrifying presence of your's. Most of them will be smart not to turn a gun on the heir apparent." The rifle gives a soft hiss, and the target loses its head once again.
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 09:41:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 09:49:53 pm
"Good. I worried what you might do, when first you spoke of this-- but you respect the blood of your own." Smile.
"I am curious, though..."
"Why not just wait? You are the heir, after all."
Ask this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 30, 2020, 09:56:45 pm
"Emma told me a while back about your precarious situation....and even if she didn't, the Crusader General told me all about it when he asked me how much you were paying me."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 10:00:06 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 30, 2020, 10:11:33 pm
"But if you would prefer to replace him..."
“I will be your backup”
Post by: Superdorf on March 30, 2020, 10:12:18 pm
Fire.
Coincidence? Deliberate linguistic choice? I dunno, but it's a nice little detail on the part of the GM. ;)
"Ah-- ah." (Look down; pinch the bridge of our nose a moment.) "Yes."
Speak soft. "I don't deny... I need the Thorntons behind me. Even if not for my own-- suspicions-- I need soldiers that aren't beholden to the old war machine. The old war machine is obsolete, and it's getting people killed with its obsolescence. I need your family to break the mold."
...
"I'll back you up. Defend you from your own, if I must. The only thing... if your father is to die, you must be the one to kill him. Emma's little love for the man, but for me to slaughter him on your behalf-- it would cause her pain despite. It must be you."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 30, 2020, 10:23:24 pm
Unrelated to current events, but I looked up on a whim the word "Empyreal". It's used for a couple different things, but its original meaning is thus: "of the Empyrean"-- "of the highest heaven." The word draws its origins from an old Greek term: "ἔμπυρος", or "in the fire".he already mentioned this
Fire.
Coincidence? Deliberate linguistic choice? I dunno, but it's a nice little detail on the part of the GM. ;)
"Ah-- ah." (Look down; pinch the bridge of our nose a moment.) "Yes."
Speak soft. "I don't deny... I need the Thorntons behind me. Even if not for my own-- suspicions-- I need soldiers that aren't beholden to the old war machine. The old war machine is obsolete, and it's getting people killed with its obsolescence. I need your family to break the mold."
...
"I'll back you up. Defend you from your own, if I must. The only thing... if your father is to die, you must be the one to kill him. Emma's little love for the man, but for me to slaughter him on your behalf-- it would cause her pain despite. It must be you."
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 12:25:48 am
"You don't have the influence to coerce your father into that, or otherwise convince him to agree, without replacing him entirely? I'm sure you have your loyalists."
"But if you would prefer to replace him..."“I will be your backup...”
...Defend you from your own, if I must. The only thing... if your father is to die, you must be the one to kill him. Emma's little love for the man, but for me to slaughter him on your behalf-- it would cause her pain despite. It must be you."
Post by: King Zultan on March 31, 2020, 04:55:53 am
Definitely a deliberate choice I think, nice catch. A combination, maybe?+1"You don't have the influence to coerce your father into that, or otherwise convince him to agree, without replacing him entirely? I'm sure you have your loyalists."
"But if you would prefer to replace him..."“I will be your backup...”
...Defend you from your own, if I must. The only thing... if your father is to die, you must be the one to kill him. Emma's little love for the man, but for me to slaughter him on your behalf-- it would cause her pain despite. It must be you."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 01:41:37 pm
"Thank you." With a crooked grin, he continues, "I wouldn't have it any other way. I owe him much."
"Let us now speak of treason?" Wiliam opines, looking over at you, a slight mocking in his voice over your choice of words.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 01:59:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 02:06:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 02:08:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 02:11:00 pm
There is something wrong with the way this war is being fought.
Insects cant be killed by the laser guns, only the abominations. But most of the abominations, at least the most dangerous ones, are soldiers who had lasguns.
The tactics seem to be feeding the horde. We never saw the tactics up close before but now it can be certain the ones they are using are terrible.
We can not feel guilty over all the deaths but we can not ignore it.
Why is artillery so poorly used. Why do they not have advanced communications, even just short range radio.
If the insects create the [demons] though nesting how many more might be out there behind the front lines?
That wasn't the king of the dead, that was an infant.
We need better weapons, something that can fire an entire lasgun blast worth of energy like an automatic rifle if we power it or a man portable tank energy cannon. One of those blades but much larger and heavier, since we can use it.
I think a key thing while we are healing is to get every general and advisors together and go over new battle plans. And execute any who do not agree to follow the new plans.
Voidslayer's post on the matter, since he is en-absentia.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 02:16:08 pm
"From there, with new generals, perhaps Thorntons, it will be a simpler matter to consolidate power and see to a soft or hard coup."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 04:07:50 pm
"Before we arrive at the defensive lines, we will gather all of the city-state's high-ranking generals and advisors to discuss a change in battle plans, specifically stopping attrition warfare, which I believe is just feeding the plague. Any that refuse will be forced into... 'retirement,' let's say."+1 yeah, our previous choice of wording was pretty bad
"From there, with new generals, perhaps Thorntons, it will be a simpler matter to consolidate power and see to a soft or hard coup."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 05:11:23 pm
"You might have to be concerned about their loyalty." He shrugs a shoulder, rising from his prone position and bringing his rifle to bear on the target once more. He squints, giving the Crusader Armorer a command, which is reluctantly followed, "Armorer-- turn off the lights."
Your eyes adjust rapidly to the darkness, able to focus on the target that lies in front of William. You aren't able to tell a difference. "How will you secure their loyalty after they leave the meeting?" He questions, taking a shot that gouges a chunk from the plastic target's neck. "I mean, its fairly easy to say something to save your skin, and then decide against it later." The rifle hisses, and William waits patiently, lowering his voice, "Maybe we should make Emma stay at the Thornton estate, during this attempt, so they lose all leverage on you."
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 05:15:53 pm
"As for securing loyalty, I will probably give the highest positions to members of my personal guard, who I know to be loyal. If necessary, however, there is always the option to perform a blood transfusion."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 06:31:32 pm
He lowers the gun, turning to face you in the dark. You feel yourself tensing in turn, ready for a fight as he keeps eye contact with you. "Pheobe. What do -you- mean by that?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 06:34:03 pm
Focus our will and send it out towards him. "I just mean that we can gift others with our strength. However, if it bothers you, I will refrain from doing that."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 06:44:18 pm
Oh shit...+1
Focus our will and send it out towards him. "I just mean that we can gift others with our strength. However, if it bothers you, I will refrain from doing that."
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 06:48:57 pm
Grin wide. Let our will rise in defiance. "Only you, hm? Fair enough."
"You're right, of course. Godhood is not to be thrown away so lightly."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 06:57:55 pm
"..." William relaxes a little, turning back to the range. "For a moment, Alphira, I was worried your 'blood' might be a control mechanism. I think that would make me very mad. Very mad. I apologize for reacting defensively."
[1][8 vs 1] The rifle swings around wide, the shot following the swing, but you're already ducking down, tackling William to the ground with your shoulder. You draw out your cutter hilt in one smooth motion and hover it above his neck, the short blade singing away the top of his uniform, your's as well. You sit atop him, keeping him pinned, and he laughs. "I was actually trying to kill you. You don't control me. Good. Sorry Pheobe, I had to be sure."
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 07:00:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 07:16:25 pm
"...of course. Your support is important to me. Now that we've established that, can I count on your continued aid?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 07:18:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 07:27:50 pm
Also, we have a knockout ability now. Beautiful.
"I think... we overwhelmed him. Pushing at each others' wills that way. I've never done that before."
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 07:28:59 pm
Heh, I misunderstood the situation there. That wasn't new William angry at the thought of somebody else sharing his power-- that was old William, afraid we'd put him in a mind lock. No wonder he wheeled on us.+1. Take him to medical.
Also, we have a knockout ability now. Beautiful.
"I think... we overwhelmed him. Pushing at each others' wills that way. I've never done that before."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 07:38:39 pm
"No." You admit, after some hesitation.
"That's powerful, if it works on everybody." William says. "I've...noticed some changes in regard to how people treat me. Before the transfusion, that armorer wouldn't give me the time of day. Everything was paperwork, I had to have a permission slip from Emma, blah blah blah. When the changes finally kicked in...he started acting nicer to me. Helping me out. Letting me use guns without a form. That kind of thing. Nothing major, of course."
"Maybe it only works with the two of us. Our collective field pushing at one another causing him to black out." He finally offers, as he splits off from you. "See you on the ship."
You arrive in medical and deposit the Crusader Armorer to a medic. He's going to be okay, just fainting, you're assured. They ask what happened, and you gloss over the important parts.
You have three hours before Emma and you are to go out on the town.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 07:49:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 08:29:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 08:30:55 pm
[16] You activate the needles, and the armor awakens. You start feeling hungry, and the armor begins to creak, fusing together the faults and damages. The breaks and damages seal in it, slowly filling with the black metal before gold overcomes it. You see no marks, and remove the mended pieces. You keep a glove on, ignoring that mixed feeling of disgust and comfort it radiates.
[Good Local Afternoon Sadil-- Sadil. You have abnormal readings within your processing and identity cores.]
And with one final sigh, you embrace yourself, allowing the information you know as fact to flow into you. Acknowledging what you were trying to hide. There's something wrong with you. You feel it in your bones. Pulsing pain that nothing can dampen.
W͛ͤ̓̀ͭ̓͏̪̳h̶̡̲̖ͭ̈́̽ͮ̎̀ā̸̡͎̮̫̘̥̠͎̖̩̋̓͒ͨ̑t͚̣̼̪͆ͬ̆̆.̌̍̾̄ͩ̽̈͟͡҉̦̞͚̬̥̘̩.͓̼̥͕͕̗͉͍̣͊ͯ̊̓͊̿́͞.̨̹͕̣̠̼͓̜̩̭̔ͭ͢w̧̹͓ͪͪ̋͢h̶͖̰̥̻̤͖ͮ̈́͒̋ͬ̑ͦá̳̲̟̪͔̤̕͡t̸̴̛̺̜̼̫̉̂ ̤̫̞̳͛͗ͥ̄̀i͕̥͓̻̼͆ͨͩͬ̇͋̆ͪͨś̟̦̠̝͓̝̹͚ͥ͂͒ͯͅ ̛̙̒̐̓̈̎t̟̺͂̄̍ͩ͘͢h͇̗͍̣̳̞̜ͯͦ̉̒́̔ͦ͜i̪͈̗̺̳̱̋̄ͩͥͭ͊̀͠s̫̼͋ͣͣ̆ͩ̊ͤͬ͜.͆ͦ̓̏͒͏̜͎͎ ̨͚̪̬̫̗̹ͭ̅ͫͪ̇̈̆͝͝ͅP͖̱̼̣̪̱̭̈̏ͧ̍̍̀ả̵͊̐̌ͨ͆͌̚͢ͅt̴̸̻̖̰͙̫̝̦̃̊̋̅ͅc͓͙̰̝͙ͬͤ͠h̭͇͚̉͐̍ͧ̾ͦ͊͐̽e͕̦̜̠̞̤̾͋͒̉ͣ̿̎ͧs͉̖̳̥̼̓̌͗̎ͨ̓̋ͭ̇?̡̹̀̊ͣ
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 08:33:20 pm
How nice. The plague left us a parting gift.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 08:37:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 08:38:04 pm
Y̴̳̜͙̳̘̦͈̳͉̣̪̟̮̱͕͚͉͍̽̉̃̂͋͂ơͦ͗ͦ̆͒̇̅̽̅̇̑ͩͣ̓̎ͫ͊̇҉̵̣͓̫͉̤̥̦͜u̟͇̤̱̰̜̭͖͍̫̣̯̒́ͮ̓̊͊͜ ̨̛̛͓͉̻͎̜͕̣̲̆̈̊ͦ̓͋̿ͤ͐ā̸̢͍̰̦͖ͮ̋͌ͯ̍ͧ͆̇̈̀ͧ͢͟ͅr̛͆ͪ̾ͨ͑̄̂͛̋̏̂ͧͩͫ͘͡͏̥͕̼̼͇̪̦͢e̷̡̪̣͉̳̟̲͇̝͖ͫ͛͌̃̀̽ͬͪ̆͡ͅͅ ̸̶̙̲͚̤̹̼̥͂̏͆̋̍͛ͩ͊͋̍ͣ͑ͪ̆̚i̢ͨͥͦͥ͊̑͝҉҉͈̥̬̥̫̞̞̻̣ņ̶̸̠͔̔ͥ̾̑̎ͨ͐̽́́ͅf̴̫̺͖̭͔͍͕̟̟̟̟̓̾͋ͪ͋̏ͥ̑͘͟͟͞ͅe̸͊ͨͮ̋͂̎ͩ̉͒͏̡͔͈̩̼̗͙̘̰͠ͅç̧̛̝͎͎͖͈͈͖̘͍͕͙̦͚̭̫͉̣̑ͣ̊͌̇̏͗ͬ̄̑̄̊́͘ṭ̵̣̲̝̻̟͓̲͍̤̩̳̲̤̱̻̱̣̒ͨͬ̂̃ͧ̎ͥͪ͒̆̿̾̇ͫ̑͊ͮ́̚̕e̴̦̪̹̣̠̰̻̟͎̻̭̠̮̥̙̟̯ͥ̆͑̐́͐̾͛ͥ̐̍͂͞d̵̷̫̘̩̥̗͇̤͙̦̤̱̠̠͙̩̩̬̲̲͌͆̌͛̔̒̿̋ͣ́͞.̧ͯ̓̀ͩ͗̈́̈́̀ͥ͆͌̿͐̚͡͏͖͉̖̟̫̙̹̺͔̟̲̞̠
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 08:50:55 pm
[Determine the extent of the infection.]
+1
P̷̨͑̈́͜l̸̙̘̮̟̘̝͚̉̔͐͒̅͘a̴͉͈͇͓̟̭͊ḡ̵̲̈u̶͚̝͊̀͒̑̐ę̴̜̗̪̣̝̃.̶̟̣̩͑͜
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 08:54:33 pm
Aw noWhile trying to determine the state, attempt healing. Try to figure out if the infection is mostly in one part or if it is spread out[Determine the extent of the infection.]
+1
P̷̨͑̈́͜l̸̙̘̮̟̘̝͚̉̔͐͒̅͘a̴͉͈͇͓̟̭͊ḡ̵̲̈u̶͚̝͊̀͒̑̐ę̴̜̗̪̣̝̃.̶̟̣̩͑͜
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 09:08:16 pm
W̴̳̭h̳̰̤͕̩̰͜at̠̙̣̟ ̺͇t̛ḫ̘e̴̞͇͙ ̡͉̞̝̖fu̹̺̥͉̕c̸̥k̺̞͈̲ ̬̤̮̥͉̠̤w̝̦h̡̼͙̭̘e̻̠̦ͅr̡͓̪͈͎e̴̤̙̟͕ ̨̻̻͚̰̯̝ͅy͈͓̦o̮̪͈̼̩u̳͕̺͍ ̲̯̹̠͔͔ḱ̳͙̙͈͚͔̘e̠͎e͓̯p̟̝̻͓͘i̴̯͇͔͈ṉ̨̖g̪̰͖̭͜ ̷f̠̬̬͖͕̀ͅṟ̸̼̣̠̘̰ͅọ͓͕̤͉m̮̫̜͇̭̳̤ ҉̦̖̲̪͙ͅu͈s̙ ̡P̺͓at̢͔͍͇̣̰c͖͙̥̝h̼̱e̠̝͝s̘̪̳̦̰͞?̯̲̜̮̮̲͜!̖̤̠̠̪̳
You drop to the floor, like a puppet with cut strings.
P̴͉̠̫̭ͅr̨̘̞̪̞͖̯̥ị̷ó̠͔̜͙͖r͖̦̫̻̻i̬̩̤͖̠̱͟ͅt̝͇͘y̧͓͔͕͎̩͇͕:̼̳͕̳̜̗C͚͙̲͖o̱̮͡n͏t̤̪̩͎̮ḭn̖̯̺̩̯̣u͖e͙̬d̛̲̟̘̟̟̮͈ ͍̣̯̣̖͍S̴̗͕̦͙̲̣̯u̫̟̲r̷̜̦͓v̧̬͍̬͎i̸̭͎ͅv͙͕̙̫̤̻a̜͖l̪̗.̛̪0̱̙͚̠0̞̙̦̞̘͎
͟N̻e̢̜̹r͕̯̦̝̮v̗͈̼̗͞ͅo̸u̺̖̲s̭̮͈̱̻̗ ̙̲̼s͈̖͚̜y̗͙͕̩̺s̶̯̮͕̪̘̗͇t̲͇̹ẹ̟m̤͍̺̤̺̺̟ ̞s͖̲h̪̦̗u̗͔̪͖t͕ͅd͡o̠̤̩̫̖͉w̧͙ṇ̺ ̬͙įn͈̱͚̬͍i҉̩t̬͔͉̪i͈̞͎̮̕ͅa̭̻͙̻̙t̶̫e̶̗d͙̕.̘̫͞0͙͡0͢
Consciousness fades.
[20]A pulse in the dark. Similiar. Not similar. Creation. Hunger. Loneliness. Echoes of long-dead kin. Last screams--Hunger. Sacrifice? Yes, enhanced creation. Fire. Burning fire. Then silence. No sustenance. Weeping in the dark, still distant. Emotions. Hunger.
Search for the similar presence?
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 09:09:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 09:17:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 09:31:18 pm
Emma is curled next to you on the bed, with a sheen of sweat drying on her skin. She sleeps peacefully, embracing you in your flinching, shifting state without conscious thought. She's warm. Some of the only warmth you can truly feel. You brush a strand of hair from her face with your gloved hand. You drift back to sleep, comforted.
Until something brushes your's from your face. Your eyes shoot open as you tense-- and you force yourself to relax. Barbs of silver metal twist tightly around your neck, and you can feel the edges of the blade. Trying not to look at the blood that blooms on Emma's pale flesh. She sags against you, still breathing. You shift, trying to free your hand.
Only to realize your body will not move. Outside, beyond the gash in your wall, the Holy City burns. A silhouette of some monstrous shape worming through. Screams. Fire. Smoke. Blood--
Snip. You wish you could scream from the pain-- your leg is removed with surgically precise jaws, right above the knee. Something crunches it down in the dark. Then, a sharp blade is pressed into your chest. Slowly, agonizingly slowly--Emma smiles with a lamprey's teeth as she slowly forces a tentacled blade into your heart.
I̧҉͏̫̘͉͍͇̰̭'̣̯͇̻͘l̡̥̫͕̗̘͕̗̹̮l͈͔̲͢ ̙̞͖̱̙͇͍͇͚s̛̗̲̳e̹͉͍̻̬͕͍͙̙͞e̵͙̺̙̖̝̖͜ ҉̰̜̱̻̕y̶̸̟͈̖͖̹̗o̦̺̻̘̫͍̩͎u҉̖̲̟̕͝ ̧̛̞͇̰̝̘͍͘à͚̥̥͜ǵ̣͚̭͈̪́͞a̛͉̖͔̦̘̮͜i̸̡̲͉n̗̙̣̣̫͔̥͈ͅ.͇̪̳͘
Your willpower surges with the slowing of your heart. Your fingers respond with twitches in your gloved hand to your commands.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 09:35:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 09:39:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 09:42:21 pm
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 09:42:54 pm
[Disengage]+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 09:43:49 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 09:45:27 pm
"Ḩ̸͔̥̫̫͐̈͘e̸͙̞̭͙̻̍͊̿́̕l̷̡̛͇̟͗͂̇p̷̦͈̣͚̒̒̒͂͝-̶͇̥̹̝̏-̵̝͂ ̴̡̭̭̦́͛͒̒m̶̛̮͌́e̶̟̒-̵͔͖̯͒̽-̶̲̀͌"
Ḩ̸͔̥̫̫͐̈͘e̸͙̞̭͙̻̍͊̿́̕l̷̡̛͇̟͗͂̇p̷̦͈̣͚̒̒̒͂͝-̶͇̥̹̝̏-̵̝͂ ̴̡̭̭̦́͛͒̒m̶̛̮͌́e̶̟̒-̵͔͖̯͒̽-̶̲̀͌
Healing Surge. Reject the armor by force.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 09:46:33 pm
Good grief.+1
Healing Surge. Reject the armor by force.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 09:52:49 pm
[20] She tumbles away from you when you push her over the edge of the bed, feeling the dagger rip itself from your chest to follow her down.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 09:54:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 10:07:12 pm
Get a hold of yourself. Reject these hallucinations. Focus on the pain.
+1
P̵r̷o̶t̷e̸c̶t̸ ̴m̷e̸
P̵͉̲͔̔̓r̴̥̐̈́̾e̴͖͔̳̔̒̀s̴̜͉̝̎̌̈́̿͜e̴̟̟̟̭̽͜ř̵͍̮̥̫v̷͎̭͈̓͝e̷̢̙͙͝ ̵̛͔̗̩͛m̵͕̭̀̀e̶̡̢̹̙͒̕
Healing Surge.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 10:19:22 pm
I̧҉͏̫̘͉͍͇̰̭'̣̯͇̻͘l̡̥̫͕̗̘͕̗̹̮l͈͔̲͢ ̙̞͖̱̙͇͍͇͚s̛̗̲̳e̹͉͍̻̬͕͍͙̙͞e̵͙̺̙̖̝̖͜ ҉̰̜̱̻̕y̶̸̟͈̖͖̹̗o̦̺̻̘̫͍̩͎u҉̖̲̟̕͝ ̧̛̞͇̰̝̘͍͘à͚̥̥͜ǵ̣͚̭͈̪́͞a̛͉̖͔̦̘̮͜i̸̡̲͉n̗̙̣̣̫͔̥͈ͅ.͇̪̳͘
[15] Emma stands beside the bed, clutching a sheet to her, staring at you with wide eyes. You're intact, with no wounds, no injures, certainly no blade in your chest. Your heart is beating hard, breath coming in gulps, despite the lack of a need. Your knuckles are white as you clutch the sheet of your bed tightly. Your stomach aches with hunger, and your body aches oddly. Not a bad ache, but one that makes you feel more alive than ever. You shiver in the night, nothing to do with the temperature.
"Ph-Pheobe?" Emma stutters, settling a distance away from you, back on the bed. "Are you okay now?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 10:23:31 pm
"Emma, I'm so sorry. What... what happened? The last thing I remember is putting on my armor."
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 10:34:00 pm
I was hoping you'd use inferno!
Wot, so we'd incinerate our one friend in the world? Not happening.
"Think so-- think so-- I-- I--"
This was terrifying. Take a moment.
...
"Emma, I'm so sorry. What... what happened? The last thing I remember is putting on my armor."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 10:40:08 pm
[17] "We..." Emma states, letting the tension release from her shaking form. It takes her just a little to regain control of her emotions, but she does. "I came and got you from the medical bay. You passed out in McFee's workshop. You had the glove on. But you were fine! Awkward, and cute and...we bought clothes for tomorrow-- today. We had dinner. We had...dessert. Then you were thrashing and twitching in your sleep. Then you started screaming. You pushed me off the bed..." She gives you a slightly hurt look at that, but it's gone in an instant, replaced by concern, by care. She focuses on you, leaning over to wrap her arms around you.
"Did you have a nightmare?" She, like so many things she does, understates beautifully.
...Mother--the VOID told me to keep it a secret from you. I-I- didn't know...
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 10:44:27 pm
"The worst nightmare I have ever had. Someone was stabbing me to death."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on March 31, 2020, 10:48:56 pm
Phoebe, we need to have a talk. We can't help you if you lie to us.+1
"The worst nightmare I have ever had. Someone was stabbing me to death."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 11:16:39 pm
[1] S̷̼̯̤̭o̥ t̸̰̪̺͈̺͖̞h̭͖̗̺̝̰͘a̤̮͈t͝ ̶y̵̙̺̦͍̙͚ͅò̟̙u ̘͇̺̟̟̜̺͟c͝a̴̯͎̱͕͉̞n͟ ͎͇̠͔̹̣p̸a͕͖̼͠ṋ̛̙̪̳i̙̳͔̮̺̬c̥̩͉͔͇͖̻?̬̲̗̟
T͖͇̥h̥͓̩̺̯͖͡ḙ̠̤ ̵̯͖̺I͚͕͇͇͓̹n͈f̻̫͇̯͚e̻̹͍c̸̯t̪͙̭͉͔̹i̬͇̝͇̤̕o̦̝̯͍̫ǹ̫̻̦̦͙̱ ͔̹̖̗̙i͈͈̙͕s̻̲̝̥ ͕̱͈̣b̨̘̩͉e̼̪i̧̠͚̙̟̮͚̭n̘̞͕̰͉̙g̠̮͉͕͓ ͇̻͕̘͕̞̤̀pu̟̤̘͍r̨͚̝͍̗̰̹ͅg̴̙è̩̮d̴ ̭͘f͖̯̰̥̥ͅr̛̳͎̯̱o͉̪͎͈ͅm ̼̩̳̦͇ţ̲͓̪̘h̖̪̜̮͢ͅe҉̝̱͕̥̮̬ d̘̭͝e̠̟̠s͔̙̯͉̰͍i̟̱̥̠͡ͅg̩͍̤̖͚̫ǹ͓̘̺ͅa̵t̟̗i҉o͟ṉ̪́ ͍͎̙̳͚̼̠͡[̴͕̮͕̲Al҉p̦h̛͚͙̮̣i̟͞r̛͎̙̪͍a̰͎̠̗̲̺͎]̵̰'̮̦s̥̬̬͙̮ ͉̣̣͕t̨̝ ̯̦̀P͈̼̙̀e̤r̙̻̠̪s̼o͉̻̙n̙̖͙̼͙a͔̙̜̺̬̲l̰̙͡i̠̘͍̩̜͍̦͝t̠͇͓͎̮ͅy̡͕̰̦͎̫ ̳̥̮͚̜͈̥C̥͔̀o̥̗̰r̡͉̥̫̜e̡̜̞ͅ.
Ý̮̰̗͔̪ó̦̪u̧͔̭ l͎̟̥͓͎͍a̞͕̱̞̼c̛̤̞̭̠ḵ̡̮ ̼̞̙͉͇͔͙t̲̱̯̖r̗̣̹͔̬͉͠u̜̘̕s̱̮͙̀t̵͎͕̩ ̩̬̳in ̥̭̠̣͉ͅm̳e̳̝ͅ.͜
Post by: Superdorf on March 31, 2020, 11:22:18 pm
I don't know you. You say I'm your-- mother?
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 11:28:05 pm
((The italics voice is Phoebe and the Zalgo text is the VOID. "Mother" is a common term in this setting. Remember that many characters called Phoebe "Mother" during her training.))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 31, 2020, 11:29:50 pm
̴̝̙D̥͖̯̙͎̥e̢͎͉̗͍̜ṣ̡̠̹ig̨̰n̙̯̖͠a͏t̸͇̘̙̗̞̖̗i̥͝o̝̦̪͖̞͟n ̳͇̬̞͙͓'̬̬̺̖ͅP̸͕͎a̪͔͉̠t͎̪̮̬̹̯̮̀c͏̮̝̠̬͔̟̖h̛̰̖e̶s̵̩͖̹'̹̭̤̜,̹̩̖͈͖ͅ ͔̫̪̮̙͟i̬̰͈̤s̛͔ ̛̬̼͇m͓y͍̲̙̪͇̠͟ c̠̞̭̣̭r̯̰ͅe̶̙̱a̱̣͖̩ͅt̢̺̘͉͎̳͚̤i̞̬̫͡o͍̙̜͖̲ͅn̴̦̳̜͓̱.̗̥̻͖ M̺̼̣͡y̛̯͇̗̥̺̫ ̱'͏͍͇͙̝̝̟̻d̺̰a̡u̥̖̦̟̻͢g̷̝h͚t͏͎͙ȩr̝̣̼͔̪̥'̞̤̗̤̯̀.̲̬͍͓̙͝ A̠̝ ̛͖̝̰f̦͓̻̰i͕̟x̧̺͔̗̟e̛̖̪d͎͓͚͡ ̢̲̩͇͓͈͖p̩o҉͖͕̮̘i̫̗̗n͜ț̻̹̳̼̬͖ ͕̩f̦̟͓͎͠o̖r҉͍̭̼̥ ̮̙̰͕̼͍͈h͎e̼r͔͍̙ ͚̪̰̝̮e̼̥͚ͅx̰̫̞̲̥̗ͅi͙͖̠̻̟ͅs͕̭͍̠̩̥͇͘t̲͜e̴̖̙nc̹e̶̺̪̭͕͕̼̰.̠̤̣͕̲͔͜
Y҉̦̠͙o̘̭u̳͉͖͔̘͉̞ ̜͉̯̠̣ͅa̧̘͍̬̹͔r̮̻̪̯ḛ ͇̻͚̣̲f̼̞̝̙ͅr̬̝͚̞a̭͉̦̰͖̼ģ͉͖̝̮m̖̺̖̹̜͚͟ͅe̦̯̩̬̼̤ṇ̴̹̺͎̗̹t̬̩̞̯͇͍ͅs̛̮ͅ ͚̣o̞̙̜̹͙ͅf̜̥ t̹͉̠͉̳h̶o̙̟̠̗s̘̘͉͚̺e͚͉̖ ̗̳̖̮b̰̕ef̳͖̗͕͙̲͟o͙̳͕̭̤̭r̭̖͙e̮̠̠̟,͍ ͚͇̞̖̮ͅr̛̥̻͓͇̣ęt̩á̮̭i̺̬̦n͇͎͉͔͇̳̜e͇͈̮ͅd ̘͘b̹̗̱y̵̦̦ ͇͇̜͇̼ṃ̖̻͓̫̥̳͘e̸͔̱̪̬͖ ͏̮̫̘͓̙f̢̰̱̙̬̟o҉͉̖͚̼r ͖̺ͅf̷ų͍̤̱t̲͙̪̳̕u͙͕̜̰͖̬͖͠r͉͍͟e̛͉ ̭̣u̮̞̟͎s̜̗̼̯̳ͅe̛̮̲͚͍͎̣.̦̲͡
You're uncomfortable with such frank words and shift a little closer to the warmth of Emma. To your refute, she says nothing, leaving you in silence. Eventually, Emma falls back asleep, but you do not, instead sitting awake in bed.
Post by: ZBridges on March 31, 2020, 11:39:23 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 06:49:30 am
H̴o̶w̶ ̶c̴a̴n̶ ̴m̸u̴l̸t̵i̵p̶l̸e̵ ̵p̴e̷r̶s̷o̶n̶a̸l̵i̵t̷i̴e̴s̶ ̸c̵o̵-̸e̶x̸i̷s̷t̶ ̵i̷f̶ ̸w̵e̶ ̸h̵i̸d̴e̶ ̸t̵h̴i̶n̵g̷s̴ ̵f̴r̵o̸m̸ ̵o̸n̵e̵ ̷a̶n̴o̷t̸h̶e̷r̷?̵ ̸ ̶I̴f̵ ̴y̵o̸u̴ ̶w̷a̸n̵t̸ ̴c̶o̵o̶p̵e̸r̸a̶t̴i̷o̸n̵,̷ ̷w̷h̵a̸t̶'̶s̶ ̴b̷e̵s̷t̸ ̵f̵o̴r̶ ̸P̴a̸t̷c̸h̴e̶s̸,̸ ̴y̸o̸u̶ ̶w̶i̶l̷l̶ ̸n̶e̸e̴d̸ ̸t̸o̸ ̴b̸e̶ ̵m̸o̸r̸e̸ ̶t̶r̷a̸n̶s̶p̷a̸r̴e̸n̷t̷.̸I think Void is saying we haven’t been transparent. I kind of assumed that since all of us share the brain, the various minds can just see/hear thoughts of the others’ minds via the brain. Clearly this is incorrect.
Post by: King Zultan on April 01, 2020, 09:07:37 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 12:50:25 pm
H̴o̶w̶ ̶c̴a̴n̶ ̴m̸u̴l̸t̵i̵p̶l̸e̵ ̵p̴e̷r̶s̷o̶n̶a̸l̵i̵t̷i̴e̴s̶ ̸c̵o̵-̸e̶x̸i̷s̷t̶ ̵i̷f̶ ̸w̵e̶ ̸h̵i̸d̴e̶ ̸t̵h̴i̶n̵g̷s̴ ̵f̴r̵o̸m̸ ̵o̸n̵e̵ ̷a̶n̴o̷t̸h̶e̷r̷?̵ ̸ ̶I̴f̵ ̴y̵o̸u̴ ̶w̷a̸n̵t̸ ̴c̶o̵o̶p̵e̸r̸a̶t̴i̷o̸n̵,̷ ̷w̷h̵a̸t̶'̶s̶ ̴b̷e̵s̷t̸ ̵f̵o̴r̶ ̸P̴a̸t̷c̸h̴e̶s̸,̸ ̴y̸o̸u̶ ̶w̶i̶l̷l̶ ̸n̶e̸e̴d̸ ̸t̸o̸ ̴b̸e̶ ̵m̸o̸r̸e̸ ̶t̶r̷a̸n̶s̶p̷a̸r̴e̸n̷t̷.̸I think Void is saying we haven’t been transparent. I kind of assumed that since all of us share the brain, the various minds can just see/hear thoughts of the others’ minds via the brain. Clearly this is incorrect.
We never tried to deliberately withhold information from the VOID, but the VOID and Phoebe definitely did withhold information from us. They just worked together to hide the fact that we were infected because they thought we would panic. Personally, I don't want them to do that again because it almost resulted in Emma's death.
The VOID isn't saying we haven't been transparent. Instead, it is saying that hiding information from us was justified.
Being completely transparent whit the voices in our head might not be such a good idea.
I'm just asking the VOID to not try to hide the fact that we are infected in the future. That was information that was important for us to know, but it hid that.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 01:55:24 pm
V̸O̷I̶D̵.̷.̶.̷
H̴o̶w̶ ̶c̴a̴n̶ ̴m̸u̴l̸t̵i̵p̶l̸e̵ ̵p̴e̷r̶s̷o̶n̶a̸l̵i̵t̷i̴e̴s̶ ̸c̵o̵-̸e̶x̸i̷s̷t̶ ̵i̷f̶ ̸w̵e̶ ̸h̵i̸d̴e̶ ̸t̵h̴i̶n̵g̷s̴ ̵f̴r̵o̸m̸ ̵o̸n̵e̵ ̷a̶n̴o̷t̸h̶e̷r̷?̵ ̸ ̶I̴f̵ ̴y̵o̸u̴ ̶w̷a̸n̵t̸ ̴c̶o̵o̶p̵e̸r̸a̶t̴i̷o̸n̵,̷ ̷w̷h̵a̸t̶'̶s̶ ̴b̷e̵s̷t̸ ̵f̵o̴r̶ ̸P̴a̸t̷c̸h̴e̶s̸,̸ ̴y̸o̸u̶ ̶w̶i̶l̷l̶ ̸n̶e̸e̴d̸ ̸t̸o̸ ̴b̸e̶ ̵m̸o̸r̸e̸ ̶t̶r̷a̸n̶s̶p̷a̸r̴e̸n̷t̷.̸
̴I̷ ̸c̴a̷n̸'̶t̷ ̴s̴t̵u̴m̷b̵l̴e̵ ̵o̵n̷ ̵s̸e̸c̵r̶e̵t̴s̵ ̷t̵h̴i̴s̶ ̶w̶a̶y̴ ̵a̵g̸a̴i̷n̴.̵ E̴v̷e̶r̵ ̷a̵g̵a̶i̷n̷. I̸̗̱̚ ̷̳͐c̴͇͋ǒ̵̦̈ū̴͎͔́l̵̢̓̕d̴̞̅ ̷̮̺̎̆ḧ̴̻́a̸̧̎̄v̸̧͒̕e̶͈͛̈ ̸̟̇b̶͓̓u̴͔͊̈́r̵̟̙̈́͑n̸̙͈̈́e̸̢͕͌d̵̛̞ ̵̻̘̈̽Ẽ̷̫̱m̴̪̥̄m̷͖͘͠a̸̫̻̕ ̵̣͗a̵̹̔l̴̩̤̈́ị̴̆v̴͇̦̀͊ê̴͓,̷͓̟̄̎ f̷i̵n̵d̴i̸n̷g̶ ̴o̷u̸t̵ ̷t̴h̷i̸s̸ ̷w̷a̴y̸.̸
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 02:04:39 pm
You zone out, staying awake as the time begins to pass more quickly for you. You keep careful, deep breaths, focusing on nothing in particular as you consciously drift in and out of reality. You feel odd at times, like there's something missing still.
A̧͚̝̯̤̰l͔p̷̘h̝i̳̗̱̤͎͡r͉͍̮̦͓a̙̜̞̰ ͍͢w̤͖̯͘i̗͈̪l͕̖͇̬͙̰ḷ̳ ̛͎b̙͝e̙̮̯̟̭͎͜ͅ ͝ẃ̼̠a̬̥̳̜ḵ̰̜i̢̟̠̩n͓g̨̟̼̘̦͈̹ ̤s̀o̭̠̰̞̟̩o̦̹͖̝ͅn͉̭̤̺.̭̜̬̤ͅ
̲͉̟̫̙̥V͙͎͎͈̭̯i̗̟̦̻̲͈ͅr̗̻̩̻̦͓̬u̱͎̝̩̲ͅs̴̭̱̬̝ ̭͉̙̝̞̦͘d̩e̗͕̱̜̫̗͈s̟͓͉͎͖i̛̩͉͔͙g͚͎͎̲̺͙̦n̤̯͔͈͞a̟͕̤̹̹̟̱͘t̸̳̝̣͖̜e̞͇̤̟̪̼͖d̳͓̥̼ ̰̭'҉̣̪I̶̪̖̗̩̼̜ͅn̮̺̼f͞e̵̤c҉t͕i̳̰̯o̠̬͝n̩'͙̖̭̗̗̫̥ ͔͚p͈͇̖̰̲͝ͅur̯̜̯͔͚͙̀ͅg̗̮͈̹e̺̖̙͉̠̻͢d̢͇̪̮̥͓ ̘͙̫͇̰͘ͅf̜̩̪͠ŗ͖o̴͙̹͓m̩ ͙̰̮̘̰͖̣c͟o̷̤l͇̤̫̤̰͙l̴̫͖͈̱̦̘e̸̪͔̗̻̰c̸̥̣͎̳ṭ͓͎̘̤͎̮i̮̳̜̕v̗e̖͈̥͠ ͎̰͈m̵̹̝̫̝e̲̮̥̜mo̯̯͜r̫̬̞̫̰͍͜y̮͇̝̪̩ ̞͎̮͕̥̼c̨̺͔o͈̭̱̜͡r̫͖e̘̲͚s͙̫̗̖̺̺̟,͏͕̬͓ ̛͚p͚̠̲̻̤r̡̠o͟c̣̮̲͚eş̙̳s͇̻i̥ng̙̝̩͔ ̻̪̩̬͎ͅc̰̫̗e͢ņ̮̼t̛̥̤̰͍e̟͍̠̙͖͖r̴̪̩̪̩̖̥̣.̨
You flinch a little at that, but finally respond, more to comfort yourself than the voices.
She told me that it was to keep you safe. That the more attention you paid to it, the stronger it would grow.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 02:12:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 02:15:14 pm
Who?+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 02:16:40 pm
Who?+1
Is this Phoebe we’re talking to? Are we now a fourth voice in this body the rest share? Or am I missing something?
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 02:18:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 02:20:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 02:21:29 pm
Y҉̦̠͙o̘̭u̳͉͖͔̘͉̞ ̜͉̯̠̣ͅa̧̘͍̬̹͔r̮̻̪̯ḛ ͇̻͚̣̲f̼̞̝̙ͅr̬̝͚̞a̭͉̦̰͖̼ģ͉͖̝̮m̖̺̖̹̜͚͟ͅe̦̯̩̬̼̤ṇ̴̹̺͎̗̹t̬̩̞̯͇͍ͅs̛̮ͅ ͚̣o̞̙̜̹͙ͅf̜̥ t̹͉̠͉̳h̶o̙̟̠̗s̘̘͉͚̺e͚͉̖ ̗̳̖̮b̰̕ef̳͖̗͕͙̲͟o͙̳͕̭̤̭r̭̖͙e̮̠̠̟,͍ ͚͇̞̖̮ͅr̛̥̻͓͇̣ęt̩á̮̭i̺̬̦n͇͎͉͔͇̳̜e͇͈̮ͅd ̘͘b̹̗̱y̵̦̦ ͇͇̜͇̼ṃ̖̻͓̫̥̳͘e̸͔̱̪̬͖ ͏̮̫̘͓̙f̢̰̱̙̬̟o҉͉̖͚̼r ͖̺ͅf̷ų͍̤̱t̲͙̪̳̕u͙͕̜̰͖̬͖͠r͉͍͟e̛͉ ̭̣u̮̞̟͎s̜̗̼̯̳ͅe̛̮̲͚͍͎̣.̦̲͡
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 02:29:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 02:36:21 pm
This is getting very weird, very fast.
Interesting, do each of us use different fonts now since we are each a new voice?
Nah. Hasn't been necessary before, won't be necessary now.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 02:45:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 03:12:48 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 03:17:28 pm
M͏͎̜͓o̶̦̪̗r̛̠͍e͖͠ ̡̘p̭r̴̩̞̭̯̮̝̞ò̲͉͍̗̹͎̪c̹̙̤̱̥e̖͚̹̪͓ͅs͙̪̬̱̭͟s͈̀e͙̞̲͜s̴͖̙̪͖͓̹ ̗̙͓̥̥̜͍f̦̥o̤͍̳̰c̢̭̦͇͇̰̺̜ṵ̶͙̠͓s̭͚͔̠̬̥̳e̤͠d ͚̞̕m̢͙ͅo̷͓r̠̖͍̥̤̣̥e̢͓ ̣o͝p̜̜͖̗̻̪̬p̗̼̙͜ͅọ̠̮̠͎͎̀r̝͚̝t̝̪̭̜̙͢u̻̬n̡͓̗̣̣̜i͚͉͙̦ț͙y̥̣̻̝͡.͈̹̺
A̰͈̭̻̳l͓͍̻͎ḷ̼̬̻̝̰ ̧i̘̳̮̝̰͎n҉̤̱̱̩͍̯f̨̲e̹͙͖̹̦c̟͔̜͚̩te̜͍͔d͉̬̬͓ ̴p͕̗͉̪͙r̰̰̝͓͕̻o̦̘̣̝̳͍̗͟c͉̳̗̜̙e͓̘͙̺͙̙̳ş͚̖sę͔̗̟s̴͙̪̮ ̧̠̦̩̝w͉͇̤̲͖e͕̲̹r̡͓e̼̳̥̼̗̫̜ ̲͕̹̼̪m̛̥̦̩a͕d҉͔̦̤̜͇̝̼e̪̜ ͏̞̼̦d͓̥͎̺͎͙̬ơ͓̰̞͎ŕ̳̤͎̤͇m͏̳̙͙̥a҉̗̩̩͕n̷̫̱̲t͕͙̟̳̗̳̝.̞̪͕
The...the 'VOID'.
At some point, you drift to something resembling sleep, and Emma gently shakes you awake. You flinch, only to find her smiling, standing beside you. Set upon your semi-prone form is a cafeteria tray, covered with a large amount of food of various variety. [insect meat] and eggs, crisp and carmalized and dripping with fat, soft, fluffy pancakes with a grape syrup dripped over them, a bunch of grapes with thick skins that seem to radiate juiciness, a cup of wine, diluted down...potato hash browned with sweet [onion] and [carrot]. She sits next to you before you can react, taking one of the grapes and biting into it.
"I figured you needed a pick me up. Sleepless nights are the -worst-."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 03:23:41 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 03:29:36 pm
”Thank you” Eat the food, starting with the pancakes+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 04:04:22 pm
With the pleasantries out of the way, you lay into the food, starting with those soft pancakes. There's a slight tartness to them, from both the pancake itself and the grape syrup poured over top. The cafeteria chef obviously is trying to impress you- they're made perfectly, but you can tell he perhaps used a little bit too much chemical leavener, as there's a faint, bitter aftertaste. The hash is next, and the potatoes are sweet and crunchy, the carrots and onions adding even more sweetness to offset the enormous amount of butter and salt. The steak is devoured next; fully cooked, with a light sweet flavor, coupled with faint herbs that remind you of the mountains of your...birth?
Finally, you finish your meal with those grapes, eating a few of them before Emma devours them all. They have a tough, thick skin with plenty of white splotches, but they taste fantastic. Sugary-sweet, with a tart aftertaste and juices that threaten to escape your mouth. You eventually brush and clean your face with the offered napkin, and Emma, after stealing the last grape, rises, giving you a peck on the forehead.
You dress shortly thereafter, and pack the formal clothes for the 'funeral' away in the black leather bag you and Emma purchased. Emma returns, wearing a comfortable looking dress, and you're stunned-- you don't think you've ever not seen her in anything but military uniforms. Which, ironically, is what you're currently wearing.
The airship awaits for you at a landing pad, not your 'personal' craft, but a large transport vessel, like the ones you've seen hauling cargo. The cargo containers inside have been retro-fitted with a number of comfortable looking rooms, and in the back you find Thornton mercenaries loading themselves up, taking seats on specially designed chairs. They all look fresh and awake, but you notice during your brief walkthrough, many of them stare at you.
Lift off is in an hour, apparently, there's an issue with fuel.
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 04:07:36 pm
Bitter taste suggests posioning, but it's probably nothing.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 04:10:58 pm
Bitter taste suggests posioning, but it's probably nothing.
Eh, baking soda does that if you overdo it. Seems normal.
I would recommend talking to our personal guard. We need to let them know what our plans are for getting rid of the generals so that they can back us up.
+1-- seek out Captain Zachary, specifically. That guy's on the level.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 04:21:50 pm
You and him take seats in one of the more unoccupied rooms. William and Emma are in the other corner, picking at some strange arrangement of fruit. Emma laughs at something William says, and once again you're struck by how similar he seems to you...its strange, as well, that Emma seems more comfortable around her older brother.
"So what do I owe this honor of a paid vacation, Mother Pheobe?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 05:57:18 pm
"Were you aware of that?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 06:38:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 06:40:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 06:44:27 pm
How do we know Zachary isn’t in on it? Do we know?
"I'm afraid I have some bad news. It has come to my attention that the Crusader senior leadership, including the Crusader General himself, is planning on killing me when the war is done and I am no longer useful."”Are you with them?”
"Were you aware of that?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 06:45:53 pm
Also, he is very religious and seems fanatical enough to protect us from the plotters.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 06:53:31 pm
I'm thinking we want to explain this to Captain Zachary. Let him see what we've learned. Let him draw his own conclusions.
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 06:58:10 pm
The best way to do that would be to invoke his duty and tell him what we are almost 100% certain of: SEED and its servants plan to kill us. It's too late to back out now.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 07:02:47 pm
I think we need to make a stand and take a position. We already have the Pontifex working on the civilian side of things to prepare for SEED's death. It's important that we shore up the military side for this change, and to do that we will need his support.+1
The best way to do that would be to invoke his duty and tell him what we are almost 100% certain of: SEED and its servants plan to kill us. It's too late to back out now.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 08:12:00 pm
"I... need your advice, Captain. And your help."
Speak low. "You recall that I gleaned from the relic of McCreary the nature of his death: he starved, sealed in iron by the servants of SEED. You recall the document given me by the Pontifex: a file for the eyes of the Crusaders' Council, describing how Emma Thornton is to be held hostage towards my good behavior. I am trapped by SEED, by the Crusaders-- by the Crusader General himself-- and I believe they intend to kill me in SEED's name once I am of no further use to them. You know this."
"You promised me once, Captain Zachary... that so long as you lived, so long as I stood a champion of the Great Work, you would allow no harm to come to me or my own. I've a plan to free myself from the Crusaders' noose forever, and to turn the tide of this war in so doing-- and I fear I must now ask you to fulfill that promise."
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 08:20:29 pm
We're nigh-certain of that-- Zachary quite possibly won't be. What are we gonna do if Zachary wants the hard evidence we don't have? We'd have to make something up, or evade the question... or back down, and give him the honest assessment of the situation we could've given him in first place.Makes sense. +1.
"I... need your advice, Captain. And your help."
Speak low. "You recall that I gleaned from the relic of McCreary the nature of his death: he starved, sealed in iron by the servants of SEED. You recall the document given me by the Pontifex: a file for the eyes of the Crusaders' Council, describing how Emma Thornton is to be held hostage towards my good behavior. I am trapped by SEED, by the Crusaders-- by the Crusader General himself-- and I believe they intend to kill me in SEED's name once I am of no further use to them. You know this."
"You promised me once, Captain Zachary... that so long as you lived, so long as I stood a champion of the Great Work, you would allow no harm to come to me or my own. I've a plan to free myself from the Crusaders' noose forever, and to turn the tide of this war in so doing-- and I fear I must now ask you to fulfill that promise."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 08:37:49 pm
"I made a vow to you, that's true, but my duty to the people of our nation comes first, above all else. The Pontifex has made several good points, but--" With a shake of his head, "Trading one inhuman entity for another doesn't seem to me what he had in mind."
"But at the end, what will change, should I, and perhaps the Pontifex, decide to help you?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 08:49:15 pm
"I have no intention of replacing SEED with me or any other inhuman entity. As the armor of the [Angel] MacCreary told me, 'The Mind of a Machine must never come to rule over the Will of Mankind,' and I believe that extends further. We can say that only mankind should determine the fate of mankind."
"Beyond that, what will change is the way this war is being waged. Attrition warfare has been effective in the past, but the human loss of life associated with the strategy is horrifying. This strategy comes directly from SEED and it has caused massive casualties. We must fight in a way that values the lives of the brave men and women on the frontlines while also leading us to victory."
"I need your help to replace any generals that refuse this change in strategy, and I need your help to prevent them from killing me."
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 09:06:33 pm
Subtly send out some of our influence to help convince him.
"I have no intention of replacing SEED with me or any other inhuman entity. As the armor of the [Angel] MacCreary told me, 'The Mind of a Machine must never come to rule over the Will of Mankind,' and I believe that extends further. We can say that only mankind should determine the fate of mankind."
"Beyond that, what will change is the way this war is being waged. Attrition warfare has been effective in the past, but the human loss of life associated with the strategy is horrifying. This strategy comes directly from SEED and it has caused massive casualties. We must fight in a way that values the lives of the brave men and women on the frontlines while also leading us to victory."
"I need your help to replace any generals that refuse this change in strategy, and I need your help to prevent them from killing me."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 09:07:09 pm
+1Subtly send out some of our influence to help convince him.
"I have no intention of replacing SEED with me or any other inhuman entity. As the armor of the [Angel] MacCreary told me, 'The Mind of a Machine must never come to rule over the Will of Mankind,' and I believe that extends further. We can say that only mankind should determine the fate of mankind."
"Beyond that, what will change is the way this war is being waged. Attrition warfare has been effective in the past, but the human loss of life associated with the strategy is horrifying. This strategy comes directly from SEED and it has caused massive casualties. We must fight in a way that values the lives of the brave men and women on the frontlines while also leading us to victory."
"I need your help to replace any generals that refuse this change in strategy, and I need your help to prevent them from killing me."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 09:21:08 pm
"I hope you don't mind the interruption," Emma claims, idly, and claims a seat in your lap. William sits next to you, and Zachary glances between the two of them without care, finally coming to rest his sight on you. A window shows the gold, silvers and grays of the Holy City begin to fade as you gain elevation. A patchwork of the outlying cities of seed, golden fields of grain, vineyards and other such works of man sprawl out after the ramshackle construction of the Suburbs.
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 09:29:50 pm
"SEED is not interested in the well-being of its people. It cares only for power. And that is why SEED must be destroyed."
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 09:55:17 pm
To Zachary now: "I understand that the timing is ill, Captain... but so too, I fear that by the time the greater war meets its end, SEED will already have struck against me. The longer we wait, the greater the risk-- and the more lives we lose to the obsolescence of SEED's war machine."
"You need a rationale, Captain? A rallying cry for the populace? I offer you this:"
"SEED murdered the Angel McCreary. SEED sent uncountable men and women to their early deaths without need. SEED demands perfect obedience and spreads its lies through insidious propaganda. SEED also desires to murder me, the Angel Alphira, but it won't get the chance. To change the direction of the war and achieve victory, we must strike now."
"SEED is not interested in the well-being of its people. It cares only for power. And that is why SEED must be destroyed."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 01, 2020, 09:56:44 pm
That is the reason for this now instead of after a victory. My presence isn't a sure thing, I can fail and I can fall without a real plan and backup. I am sorry to lay this on you, but the way the war is going now, we will likely lose.
Something like this?
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 10:24:14 pm
"Well hello." Grin. "We've been discussing what to do about SEED. Grim talk."+1
To Zachary now: "I understand that the timing is ill, Captain... but so too, I fear that by the time the greater war meets its end, SEED will already have struck against me. The longer we wait, the greater the risk-- and the more lives we lose to the obsolescence of SEED's war machine."
"You need a rationale, Captain? A rallying cry for the populace? I offer you this:""SEED murdered the Angel McCreary. SEED sent uncountable men and women to their early deaths without need. SEED demands perfect obedience and spreads its lies through insidious propaganda. SEED also desires to murder me, the Angel Alphira, but it won't get the chance. To change the direction of the war and achieve victory, we must strike now."
"SEED is not interested in the well-being of its people. It cares only for power. And that is why SEED must be destroyed."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 10:36:06 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
[1] Zachary looks confused, rubbing at his face, "This is the Pontifex's place. I'm a soldier, Pheobe. But...I don't know how to explain how wrong that is."
[-] Emma leans in, speaking softly, "The entire city-state is born into the religion of SEED, Pheobe. Every man, woman, and child is raised on the Holy Word-- besides the Families, of course." She relaxes more into the seat, looking over at Zachary, who seems more and more uncomfortable as he looks between the two of you. "Removing SEED entirely, would destroy our world, and plunge it into chaos."
[1] "I am...I am concerned by your views on SEED, Mother Alphira. It is as Emma says. It is the cornerstone of our civilization. Its what separates us from the beasts...its destruction is a step too far." Caution turns to a sudden blank-faced look, his concern, and hesitance gone all at once. William shifts a hand closer to his las-pistol, and Emma does the same.
[1] "Mother Alphira, if you'll excuse me." He stands and begins to walk away towards a door on the forward section of the ship-- and you sigh, relaxing. You probably spoke too harshly; you'll have to mak--
[12] Until William slowly rises, speaking loudly so that all four of you can hear him. "You do know the cockpit is that way, right, Pheobe?"
[20 vs. 19] Zachary freezes in place. His reaction to William's words speak volumes more than he does. His hand slips a las-pistol free from its holster. "The Pontifex was wrong about you, Pheobe. You are a demon. A beast that seeks to destroy everything that our people hold dear. Not to shepherd us into a golden age beneath a living SEED. You seek to destroy the Great Work for petty revenge for your former life." Zachary gives a dark look to William, who, in response, has also drawn his weapon, and throws a challenge to you instead, "Kill me yourself, Alphira. Don't send your attack dog to do it for you."
A fanatic betrayed by that he believed in. Paradise is a battle away.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 10:45:11 pm
Smother him with our will until we can get close, and then use the Cutter on him.
Post by: Superdorf on April 01, 2020, 10:52:24 pm
...then again, I do have a thing with hydrogen I've been meaning to try. Maybe we don't have to kill him all the way?
Inferno. Hurl our will Zachary's way-- smother him with it-- pull the water out of his pistol-hand, and set it alight. Repeat as necessary with relevant extremities.
Once we've got the guy disarmed (possibly literally): "I seek to save the lives of countless thousands, Captain. You can aid me in this-- or perish with the [demons] that would tear them apart."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 01, 2020, 11:03:37 pm
Aw man, we needed this guy+1
...then again, I do have a thing with hydrogen I've been meaning to try. Maybe we don't have to kill him all the way?
Inferno. Hurl our will Zachary's way-- smother him with it-- pull the water out of his pistol-hand, and set it alight. Repeat as necessary with relevant extremities.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 11:26:17 pm
[18 vs 7-1] [15][15]Emma slips off of your lap, standing tensely and staring at Zachary with something that approaches regret. William steps in front of her, gently blocking the line of fire with his own body as you begin to approach. Zachary fires a shot- it goes wide, striking the metal of the ship ineffectually. You conjure forth flames from the water vapor in the stale recycled air, lashing out at your former captain of the guard. Blisters bloom across his skin as you begin to wrap him tightly in the flames. Then, with a twist of your willpower, you separate the hydrogen from the water molecules in the skin of his hand. He screams, as his flesh boils and steams, burning up rapidly, only adding to the reaction.
[8] The las-pistol, however, was not made to deal with such heats. The hydrogen cell overheats with a sudden explosion if shrapnel. Funnily, your flames and the resulting air pressure kept the blast contained, and you cut the fires with a twist of your fingers, a puddle of water surrounding a charred and mangled body. Emma coughs, gasping for breath and hiding behind William. "SEED, Pheobe. I felt like you just stuck me in an oven!"
"Sorry Emma." You offer, sheepishly. You recognize that yes, the room is quite hotter than it was before, but its rapidly cooling.
Zachary coughs. You're surprised he's not dead.
[18 vs 20] He's charred, his right hand a burned stump of shrapnel and blood. But he continues to breath. You let your guards drop, your willpower flowing through the room. William begins to shiver, and Emma looks suddenly flush, dropping to settle in on the couch. But you're surprised by Zachary. He doesn't drift away, like you hope, instead, through cracked and bleeding lips, you can hear him pray, his will iron against your's for the time.
You draw out your cutter hilt, bringing the blade out to full length and settling the relatively cool end of the mono-tube against his chest.
"From dust and...I have called you..to dust and ash...you shall return." Zachary prays through charred lips.
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 11:29:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 01, 2020, 11:42:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 01, 2020, 11:47:41 pm
That's the only way I know to give him Alphira's memories... Perhaps this can still be salvaged.
Post by: King Zultan on April 02, 2020, 08:57:04 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 02, 2020, 09:31:28 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 09:40:07 am
"Captain... you're a good man. I'm sorry. I truly am."
Execution. Use the Cutter and be quick about it.
...
"He didn't deserve that."
"He didn't deserve that."
"He--"
...
"...what are we going to do?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 02, 2020, 10:42:06 am
I think... at this point, death is probably the best we can offer this guy. :-\do we really need to talk? I don’t think we need to say anything
"Captain... you're a good man. I'm sorry. I truly am."
Execution. Use the Cutter and be quick about it.
...
"He didn't deserve that."
"He didn't deserve that."
"He--"
...
"...what are we going to do?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 10:45:42 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 12:59:49 pm
"Sh...its okay. Come on, come sit down, Pheobe." Emma offers to you softly, locking the door that lay beyond Zachary. She sits next to you, taking your hand and giving it a squeeze. Then, softly, "That depends on what we want, Pheobe. What is it that we want? The destruction of SEED, or a coup in the military? What are our goals?"
When he returns, its with the bound, gagged, and unconscious second guard. He tosses the body down with a small sigh, and takes the seat Zachary previously vacated. "The bodies are going to be annoying. This isn't a Thornton owned craft."
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 03:19:13 pm
Sigh. "I'd like to curl up somewhere and sort out my conscience, but that doesn't help us right now does it? We need a game plan... starting with this guard, and this vessel. What do we tell this one when he wakes, and what do we do about-- er--"
Gesture weary-like towards the remains of the late Captain Zachary.
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 03:25:27 pm
"...Security. For us, for this world. For you. That's all I want, that's all I've ever wanted. Ever since that night the Moores sent their thugs."+1
Sigh. "I'd like to curl up somewhere and sort out my conscience, but that doesn't help us right now does it? We need a game plan... starting with this guard, and this vessel. What do we tell this one when he wakes, and what do we do about-- er--"
Gesture weary-like towards the remains of the late Captain Zachary.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 03:38:03 pm
"Two great tools available to leaders, Pheobe, are manipulation and delegation." Emma continues, reaching over to squeeze your hand. "You may think you have to do everything, but you're not alone."
"William. Deal with the guard's bodies, if you please?" William looks confused and defiant for a brief moment when Emma speaks, then with a look to you, rises to leave into the general quarters. Two Warmachines step into the room with him next. The bodies are removed, and Silas enters with a container of cleaning supplies, wiping away the blood on the floor. You have the oddest feeling that they've done things like this before.
"Have you spoken to SEED again? Perhaps it could give you the authority you need to take over the military. As unreasonable as it may seem to you...it still needs you." Emma seems a little cold, as she watches them drag Zachary's corpse away, but perhaps a little sad, her thin lips pressed into a tight frown. "If it didn't you wouldn't be here. That's leverage for manipulation."
Finally, she admits, with a sniffle. "He was a pleasure to work with...the captain. I'm going to miss him."
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 03:43:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 05:05:05 pm
"If that's all you want, Pheobe, then you should die after winning the war for SEED. The world will spin on without us, until the next threat comes." Emma states, bluntly, sharply, and you can tell she meant the words to hurt, but there's impatience in her tone.
Ouch. :-[
Speak bitter. "He was a friend. And I had to push high treason on him like an idiot."
Softer now: "I've been listening to Alphira... I should have been listening to you. I'm sorry."
...
"I'll ask for an audience with SEED and try to press my point. Perhaps it will listen."
Say this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 02, 2020, 05:20:12 pm
+1"If that's all you want, Pheobe, then you should die after winning the war for SEED. The world will spin on without us, until the next threat comes." Emma states, bluntly, sharply, and you can tell she meant the words to hurt, but there's impatience in her tone.
Ouch. :-[
Speak bitter. "He was a friend. And I had to push high treason on him like an idiot."
Softer now: "I've been listening to Alphira... I should have been listening to you. I'm sorry."
..."I'll ask for an audience with SEED and try to press my point. Perhaps it will listen."
Say this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 05:22:22 pm
The Steelworks Number Oh Nine bloom out beneath you. Great buildings jut out from what was a ramshackle collection of houses. Factories belch smoke into the air, and the modest chapel has grown several wings. It stretches out some miles more than previously. Large cargo hoverships flit into a number of landing zones, loading cargo before peeling off into distant skies. Laboriously, the vessel touches down into a landing field.
You and the rest disembark. William is speaking to the captain of the vessel, a freelancer, and you see a wad of cash make its way into the captain's hands. You also notice that William is carrying luggage-- which he wasn't before. You don't think about it.
"Several [beasts of burden] are coming for us." William states, settling down his odd luggage. "If you want to explore the city, we'll make time. It's been a while since you've been back. Nearly three years, right Emma?"
Emma nods, but glances to you, deferring the decision and leaning in close.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 02, 2020, 05:26:01 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 05:57:13 pm
"What would you like to accomplish? Everything else comes second. Kindness. Morality. Truth. Your personal happiness..."
Every now and again, I am reminded that Emma is... every bit as scary as William, really. Just different.
"We're in no rush." Smile. "Anything in particular worth seeking out?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 06:33:16 pm
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 08:54:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 02, 2020, 09:01:31 pm
Check The Market for anything that looks interesting or useful.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 09:53:14 pm
The colors of their clothes have not changed much, all browns and gray, but on occasion, you see the flash of color in shiny, thick, knee-length, square-paneled coats lined with blue fur.
Different tongues abound in the conversations around you as well, a motley collection of SEED dialect and a language that diverged from it long ago. The streets become more and more packed as you approach the 'center' of this sprawling city.
And then it opens up into a vast plaza, where there were neighborhoods once before. Many [beasts of burden] lay beside stalls that line the roads. Some are nothing more than poles holding up large cloth sheets, which people shelter beneath. Some are the more uniform SEED style, all blocky lines, and function over form, pre-fab and regular, made from portable sections of cloth draped over thin pieces of steel.
Hagglers abound, selling everything under the sun beneath their roofs of fabric—electronics, appliances, furniture, toys, cloth, guns, clothing, household needs...
Spoiler: Clothing Section (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Technology (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Cloths (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Spices (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Guns (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Animals (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Food (Street Vendors) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Food (Bulk) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Furniture (click to show/hide)
The prices on things are vague-- many aren't listed. [Haggling seems to dominate this market.]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 10:03:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 02, 2020, 10:13:40 pm
Ask the animal vendor about the different insects and medium mammal for sale.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 10:15:35 pm
"Ah, ah, the thin one is good for eating, very healthy. We extract oil from its flesh, which allows for some Outland clans to travel outside of their body. It smells fantastic, better from the bigger ones, but they are strong when big! It stings though! [3 credits] in local currency. Good deal!"
"The fat one is used for meat, and its chitin is used to make needles and bowls-- anything one might need if you don't have access to the bioplastics of SEED.[.3 credits] in local currency"
"Ah, the hounds. They are descended from [dogs]," You ask him to repeat that, except slower, "B-ah-ar-kers. Barkers. They rove the crater plains in packs, hunting and eating all they can find. [Beasts of Burdens], insects...children. But these are quite tame! Good stock! They do bite sometimes. [1 credit] in local currency."
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 10:25:44 pm
Purchase the Barker.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 10:37:44 pm
The shopkeep, a tall, tan-skinned woman with long, reddish-brown hair, directs you to the pen of [puppies]. She pulls a thick, leather collar with large spikes facing outwards and a long, corded cloth. "Good! Good. Pick one, anyone."
There must be a dozen puppies in the large cage. Some are gnawing on bones, or playfully attacking one another. They scatter quickly when you approach, besides for three of which, that stand their ground, yipping at you. The adults in the other cage begin to prowl the edges of their enclosure, barking in response to the yips. You can hear them growling at you. They all have a sandy, dull gray coat, splotched with black. Emma coos gently, looking up at you. "You want the ones that stand their ground." She opines, kneeling down on the edge of the puppy cage.
"Sorry, sorry for the barking! Usually more well behaved." The Shopkeep claims. "The parents may look small, but that's because they're used to far more food and exercise than I can give. They get big the more exercise and food they get. Some Barkers grow as big as your shoulder!"
Post by: ZBridges on April 02, 2020, 10:40:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 02, 2020, 10:51:16 pm
A dog is a big responsibility-- one more vote required to finalize the transaction.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 04:24:42 am
Ask about how much food each of the insects require, as well as join much food a barker requires per day
Post by: King Zultan on April 03, 2020, 08:00:43 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 09:43:50 am
The puppy starts gnawing on it. "What are we going to name it?" Emma asks, reaching down and prising the leash out of its mouth.
"Scavenger. Eats anything that isn't nailed down. Prefers to let food rot." The shopkeeper gestures loosely to the rotund beetle.
You feel like you can maintain the dog and beetle easily, as all your meals, and Emma's, are free.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 10:02:29 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 10:11:41 am
"Live prey. Usually insects when it's this small." The shopkeeper continues to explain. That might be more difficult to source. The skinny beetle throws itself at it's cage, hissing at your presence.
Spoiler: Clothing Section (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Technology (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Cloths (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Spices (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Guns (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Animals (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Food (Street Vendors) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Food (Bulk) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Furniture (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 01:31:47 pm
Are we in a position to be owning a dog right now? We'd have to take it out on the battlefield, or leave it with Emma... and I think it knows we ain't human. We can't exactly return it if it turns out to really hate us, for that matter...
...ah well. I'm willing to entertain the idea.
"You've a way with small cute things, you know that?" (Grin.) "Smart little critter. Is it a boy puppy or a girl puppy, can you tell?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 02:27:08 pm
Emma leans down, opening the dog's mouth-- it has three rows of sharp puppy teeth in it's stubby little jaws. "This dog is more Barker than Hound. They lose sets down the pedigree as they don't need them to break through bone and chitin."
Emma gestures to a sheepish shopkeeper, and the canines in the cage. "Those are probably just female hounds."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 02:34:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 02:58:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 03:00:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 03:11:35 pm
Its a small, sandy gray-colored little beast, with a stubby jaw, stubby fur, and dark, rust-colored eyes. It radiates hostility, despite its tiny form. Its current collar is large and adjustable, the outside lined with sharp spikes. The shopkeeper explained it was to protect it from other Barkers. "Barkers are...strange." Emma confides, watching it with a smile, "They sometimes mutate when they get older. They've been wiped out from the plains of SEED, and hunters keep packs in the fringes of the state. They're vicious hunters...certain packs and their territories are named like Outlander nations. They're legends in many stories."
Emma kneels in street, teasing the puppy's face with a finger, which it nips playfully at, "Who's a vicious little killer- who's a vicious little bastard? You are, yes you areeee~." It barks. You wonder if it was agreeing with the statement.
"Well, any other stalls you want to visit, Pheobe?" Emma rises, brushing the dust from her dress.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 03:16:04 pm
Maybe we can get some fuel for the reactor at some point after getting it, also ask about what the tube with a black circle at the ends. Also purchase the portable forge
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 03:18:22 pm
A curious tube, with a black circle attached across at both ends, a finger-length tube of hydrogen with a mechanism atop it, strange portable consoles with a cheap display, and a small gray pod of plastic and steel.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 03:19:49 pm
I'd like to examine and ask about the following items at the technology stall:+1, as well as the reactor and forge
A curious tube, with a black circle attached across at both ends, a finger-length tube of hydrogen with a mechanism atop it, strange portable consoles with a cheap display, and a small gray pod of plastic and steel.
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 03:27:57 pm
Anyway. I dunno we need to actually purchase anything at the tech stall-- the government will probably produce for us anything we deem necessary for war-- but we can surely have a look.
I'd like to examine and ask about the following items at the technology stall:+1, as well as the reactor and forge
A curious tube, with a black circle attached across at both ends, a finger-length tube of hydrogen with a mechanism atop it, strange portable consoles with a cheap display, and a small gray pod of plastic and steel.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 04:27:37 pm
"Ah, that tube? It's a [lighter]." He explains, picking up the hydrogen tube and pressing down on the button. A small orange flame burns out from the tip as long as he holds down the button. It goes out when he flicks it off. "The hydrogen is mixed with some salts so that you can see the fire-- too many dumbasses burning themselves." [.1 credits] in local currency.
When you gesture to the console, he grins, walking over to you and pulling a plug from a set of batteries behind the back. "This is a mineral scanner. Outland Prospectors use them to find surface deposits of minerals." It boots up, SEED script running across the screen. Then you feel a pulse of energy emitted from it. The display lists: iron ore, copper ore, and gold nearby, as well as vertical and horizontal distances to said concentrations. [20 credits] in local currency.
"This," He continues to explain when you ask about the pod, "Is a hearing amplifier. My...grandfather designed and made it. You put it in your ear, and the sound comes out clearer and louder. I sell 'em for cheap because old folks need to hear too. Just the cost of labor and parts." [.3 credits] in local currency.
"The reactor," He notes, "Is a standard workshop reactor. I actually purchased it from the Local SEED garrison. It had some slight fire damage, but nothing I couldn't fix. It's a little under-efficiency--" [5] He rattles off stats, and you look blank. The shopkeeper sighs, simplifying, "It'll use a single hydrogen cell to power an average house for a year. Three for a small workshop, and ten for a small factory. It'll emit an alarm when it's running low, and it can measure grid usage and report it back to you in a nice percentage form." [50 credits] in local currency.
The forge is fairly self-explanatory- it has an electric powered forge to heat small amounts of metals to process them into ingots. It has a blower to pull oxygen in or out, depending on the process. There's a sturdy anvil, another heater for shaping metal already in ingot form, a collapsible barrel, you assume for water or oil. It also contains a welding apparatus and a number of chisels, swages and dies, molds...so on. It also comes with a leather apron and a pair of protective lenses.
Everything you might need to get into metalworking, besides the metal and electricity. [15 credits] in local currency.
[17]You pick up the tube with black circles on it. The circles are oddly cloth-like, and the machine feels more substantial than you would expect. It fits neatly in your hand. The shopkeeper trips over himself to rush to your side, trying to snatch it out of your hands-- and Mitch gives a surprisingly deep growl for something so small. His intimidation factor is eliminated pretty quickly by the yip of bark, though.
You, however, have no such issues intimidating the shopkeeper-- who takes one look at you and backs away with his hands up. "So-Sorry-- ma'am. Just...Just a silly little trinket my senile grandfather had me make. No-nothing to worry about. I swear."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 04:32:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 04:35:32 pm
"Tell me more about this trinket, please."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 04:47:47 pm
I am... intrigued.+1"Tell me more about this trinket, please."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 04:48:21 pm
[20] "Its forbidden technology, isn't it...Mister...?" Emma suddenly seems a lot more official, straightening up and taking a step towards the man. The shopkeeper flinches back and genuinely looks like he's about to cry. "You're already screwed if we -think- its forbidden tech. So why not come clean and make it easier on yourself, huh."
With a gesture to you, and a sudden look of seriousness, "I want you to think twice about lying to me again. We're not [beat] Guardians- this is Lady Alphira, SEED's own Holy Angel of Fire. Her wrath is brutal-- just today I saw her burn someone alive for disloyalty."
"It's a [radio wave based communicator]." He manages through heaving sobs, finally breaking down.
"Your grandfather was a high-ranking scholar of SEED? And he let this technology leak?" Emma looks amused, reaching to take the piece from you.
"I never used it, I swear on SEED!"
Emma leans in, idly, to whisper, "I have no idea what this is. We could get a bribe from this guy, though, now."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 04:58:02 pm
"Give it to me, and a small bribe, and I'll forget we ever had this conversation."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 05:14:38 pm
This is important technology that would help us win the war.“I don’t believe this should be forbidden. It seems like it would help the war effort, so I’m struggling to see SEED’S rationale for banning technology such as this”
"Give it to me, and a small bribe, and I'll forget we ever had this conversation."
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 05:16:41 pm
To Emma: "Alphira told me about tech like this. If it's what I think it is... it could be priceless for the coming war."
To the shopkeep now, with a faint smile and perhaps a touch of will in our words: "I'm not so merciless as this one would have you believe... and I would not wish to bring ruin upon such a skilled technician of SEED. Turn the contraption over to me, and I'll let this offense go without notice."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 05:18:28 pm
+1This is important technology that would help us win the war.“I don’t believe this should be forbidden. It seems like it would help the war effort, so I’m struggling to see SEED’S rationale for banning technology such as this”
"Give it to me, and a small bribe, and I'll forget we ever had this conversation."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 05:45:21 pm
"I...I didn't understand. Please," He bows in front of you, "Please forgive me, Holy Alphira. Take anything from me-- please."
"It's a hefty crime breaking the forbidden tech laws...and using SEED's secrets for your own gain." Emma tuts, giving you a smile as you play along. "What's worth your life, and the lifetime of suffering on a world bereft of SEED's Holy Light? What would grant you access back into the Paradise of a Perfect World?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 05:49:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 05:50:43 pm
I just thought of something, maybe SEED’s name stands for something?
S.E.Empereal Destroyer?
Let’s not take from him. We have money to buy the forge, let’s buy the forge, not just take it
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:07:26 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 06:08:08 pm
“Abolishing the horrid practice of debt slavery, ensuring that people aren’t sent to their deaths. Giving people the ability to learn about what the world is, not what SEED’s lies say it is like”
I just thought of something, maybe SEED’s name stands for something?
S.E.Empereal Destroyer?
Let’s not take from him. We have money to buy the forge, let’s buy the forge, not just take it
Emma was talking to the shopkeep-- not to us.
...also, the last time we condemned SEED to somebody we had to burn said somebody alive. I'd really rather not have a repeat of that.
Do we need the forge? It's interesting and all, but we can probably requisition something similar if necessary.
His grandfather was right, I suppose, as that's how McCreary was summoned.
...Oh. These laws-- this planet-- SEED's deliberately hidden it from the Empyreals!
Anyway, let's grab the radio and get out of here. No need to take money or anything-- this guy's pathetic, and I'd like to leave ourself a certain air of magnanimity.
"[Demons]! From this little contraption?"
...
"...yes, I suppose it could call down a [demon] at that. Powerful technology, but dangerous..."
"...yes, I think we had best confiscate this. You are a skilled technician, to create such a device-- but you must not dabble in such technology again. I would not be so merciful a second time."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:12:49 pm
+1“Abolishing the horrid practice of debt slavery, ensuring that people aren’t sent to their deaths. Giving people the ability to learn about what the world is, not what SEED’s lies say it is like”
I just thought of something, maybe SEED’s name stands for something?
S.E.Empereal Destroyer?
Let’s not take from him. We have money to buy the forge, let’s buy the forge, not just take it
Emma was talking to the shopkeep-- not to us.
...also, the last time we condemned SEED to somebody we had to burn said somebody alive. I'd really rather not have a repeat of that.
Do we need the forge? It's interesting and all, but we can probably requisition something similar if necessary.His grandfather was right, I suppose, as that's how McCreary was summoned.
...Oh. These laws-- this planet-- SEED's deliberately hidden it from the Empyreals!
Anyway, let's grab the radio and get out of here. No need to take money or anything-- this guy's pathetic, and I'd like to leave ourself a certain air of magnanimity.
"[Demons]! From this little contraption?"
...
"...yes, I suppose it could call down a [demon] at that. Powerful technology, but dangerous..."
"...yes, I think we had best confiscate this. You are a skilled technician, to create such a device-- but you must not dabble in such technology again. I would not be so merciful a second time."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 06:14:57 pm
Quote
I just thought of something, maybe SEED’s name stands for something?
S.E.Empereal Destroyer?
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:16:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 06:22:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 06:28:31 pm
You do note that McFee has a similar forge, sans electric ore refinery. But you could, if you so chose to, requisition any bar of metal from SEED stockpiles with but a signature. You have a blanket requisition for any odds and ends you might need for training, up to a certain point.
You could, with a bit more hassle, literally demand a large amount of any material to found factories or something, if it so chose your fancy...but you haven't attempted it, content to let the SEED war machine do its part. But maybe that will change with this piece of technology in your hand.
"Of-of course. I have the other piece in storage-- for theft protection, Holy Alphira." The shopkeeper rises, stumbling over himself to bring you the other [radio communicator]. He sets it gingerly in your hand. "The Outlander clans, those heretics, quite prefer them as well! They use it to communicate ambushes and other nefarious deals. I only hope your will shines upon them." He begins to babble half-remembered prayers that you know from your brief time studying religion, that they are pretty badly translated.
"Are we done here, darling?" Emma asks, idly, straightening up-- once again, while you were talking, she was playing with Mitch. You notice that she is using her handkerchief to stop a bit of bleeding on her finger.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:32:20 pm
"Yes. Thank you for your cooperation, sir. There's no need to be afraid, as I will keep this between us only."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 06:44:54 pm
Yes, mass production of this technology would go a long way towards improving the war effort.+1 why not own a forge? It can’t hurt, and we have the money For it. Why not buy the forge then leave?
"Yes. Thank you for your cooperation, sir. There's no need to be afraid, as I will keep this between us only."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:46:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 06:50:46 pm
Yes, mass production of this technology would go a long way towards improving the war effort.
"Yes. Thank you for your cooperation, sir. There's no need to be afraid, as I will keep this between us only."
+1
Let's go poke about for market food, then see if there's anything Emma
After that, we're probably good to meet up with William.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:51:41 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 06:52:29 pm
We've the power to move industries, tho. We wield this civilization. It won't hurt us or anything to buy the thing, but... will we use it? Ever?wouldn’t it make more sense to purchase thing Emma would like, rather than things she wouldn’t like?Yes, mass production of this technology would go a long way towards improving the war effort.
"Yes. Thank you for your cooperation, sir. There's no need to be afraid, as I will keep this between us only."
+1
Let's go poke about for market food, then see if there's anything Emma wouldn't be interested in purchasing here-- we'd be paying, of course!
After that, we're probably good to meet up with William.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 06:53:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 06:54:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 06:55:34 pm
I think it's an expression, like "wouldn't you rather have $100 than $50?"I’ve heard that expression, but the way it is worded makes it sound like we are searching for things she wouldn’t like
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 06:57:23 pm
After a brief bit of arguing internally, you step out of the tent. As an aside, to Emma, you murmur, "Order me a forge-- set it up in one of the compound's rooms. A better one than that? Please?"
Emma looks confused but gives a nod. "I'll have it set up. McFee can help me pick out good tools."
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 07:02:31 pm
We might as well take a look at the guns. This isn't using up any time I think.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 07:03:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 07:07:59 pm
"Thanks, Emma."
---
Frown a little. "You're bleeding. Mitch bit you?"
We might as well take a look at the guns. This isn't using up any time I think.
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 07:11:10 pm
Is probably fine, but we can mention it-- like so:+1"Thanks, Emma."
---
Frown a little. "You're bleeding. Mitch bit you?"We might as well take a look at the guns. This isn't using up any time I think.
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 07:11:47 pm
+1Is probably fine, but we can mention it-- like so:+1"Thanks, Emma."
---
Frown a little. "You're bleeding. Mitch bit you?"We might as well take a look at the guns. This isn't using up any time I think.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 07:17:26 pm
[4 vs 8] As you drift along the food district of the market, you cannot help but stop by the vendors. You hesitate. Then, on a whim, you literally purchase one of each food item. Emma looks surprised but drifts, having to help you carry the bulk of it. You end up eating a little more than half, as Emma cannot keep up with your metabolism, but she tries every little bit you do. The sandwich is savory, and sweet, with the pickled onions contrasting the greasy, over-cooked insect meat. The cotton candy and potato-starch covered 'Barker's Beard' is sweet, melting in your mouth. You store away the potato candy with jam for later, focusing instead on the fried potatoes and onion rings, picking at them as you walk to the gun stall.
Spoiler: Wares (click to show/hide)
You notice, hanging between two poles, many, many knives. Some are handled in bone, other's steel, and some are the Crusader Standard Combat Knives. Many of them are long and sharp, double-sided for ease of stabbing. What draws your interest the most is the ones handled in bone. They have intricate, carved figures on them--
Letters! Or...pictographs, more precisely, strung together to form words that you can easily translate. The bones themselves are smooth and polished, intricately worked.
"Hey-- oh [fuck]." The Shopkeep, an attractive, scarred lady of middling age eyes flash to Emma's blond hair. "Uh--"
"Just a customer," Emma claims, calmly.
The woman eyes Emma with a mix of distrust and skepticism. You don't think you'll get a good deal here, judging by the atmosphere. Emma lets you look through the weapons while she feeds Mitch pieces of fries. The Thornton Las-Rifle reactor hums to you as you pass it by, and you cannot stop yourself from drifting your fingers along the crude angles of the weapon. The weld-job is patchy, and crudely done, something obviously done to make it accessible to those who do not have your or a Warmachine's strength.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 07:20:55 pm
A gold-leaf las-pistol, with a steel frame and uncovered coolant tanks
An off-brand, cheap las-pistol
Many different types of magazines,
Helmets, some made from steel, some made from plastics
The knives, ones that are functional and concealable
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 07:22:40 pm
I'm interested in inspecting and asking about the following items:+1 What do the knives say?
A gold-leaf las-pistol, with a steel frame and uncovered coolant tanks
An off-brand, cheap las-pistol
Many different types of magazines,
Helmets, some made from steel, some made from plastics
The knives, ones that are functional and concealable
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 07:42:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 08:10:35 pm
"Salt Flows." You read out loud in SEED dialect, translating it as best you can, and can hear Emma suppress a mean giggle as the woman abruptly stops talking. You decide to continue, "Mushroom weeps. Steel rends. Soul sighs. Blood blooms salt. Barkers howl....I don't get it."
"You wouldn't."
You think she sounds pretentious, so you don't press further. Right now.
Instead, you look at the smaller, less flashy knives. While all of these knives value form over flash-- being of reliable construction, hand-worked and razor-sharp, there are only a few that you would consider being concealable. They all come in a small kit with plenty of small holsters that you can strap to your person. They all possess a conical blade, terminating after roughly five inches. You don't think that you could throw them--describing them as a shiv is perhaps more efficient. The handles are worked bone and feel good in your hand. [3 credits] in local currency.
The magazines run the gamut from the conventional rifle magazine loaded with bullets to las-rifle magazines loaded with energy. Some of them are fully charged, and some are less than fully charged—any number of mags for any number of weapons you might buy.
[7] A gold-leaf las-pistol, with a steel frame and uncovered coolant tanks, is...supremely not good to use, after closer inspection. It's flashy and overcharged, but they haven't done anything to protect anything but the coolant system from the heat it would generate. The gold leaf is peeling in places-- they didn't apply it correctly.
There are even fissures in the barrel already! What was the point of supercharging the coolant system if the focusing barrel is already damaged?! You fight the urge to throw it on the ground.
It's just a cheap las-pistol, made by some Family or another. Things like this flood the under streets of SEED's Holy City, and often have the terrible habit of misfiring or having a reactor short circuit while in use. It's shiny, though, and ergonomic. And incredibly cheap. But the magazine doesn't come out, and sans cutting the whole thing open, you can't access any of the hardware for repairs or inspection. [.5 credits] in local currency.
The helmets come in a wide variety. Made of either bio-plastics and cut like the Crusader's, guarding most of the face but leaving room for gas-masks, or wide-capped metal domes, attached by a strap to the head. A few are of more extreme design-- you see one with a red mohawk and kevlar neck guard, for instance. The prices and designs vary - If you find something interesting, you can let the Shopkeeper know.
Emma grins, dragging you to the clothes stall and asking you to buy a blue fur robe. She bundles up in it, picking up Mitch and depositing him into a pocket. It cost you, after haggling, [.64 credits] in local currency. "I was cold." She offers innocently.
"Have you ever tried [bug oil]?" Emma asks as you drift by the spice stall on your way back to the airfield. She gestures at an ornate bottle on the shelf when you shake your head no. "Apparently it's an interesting experience. William and Polly bought some once. They said it was amazing, and that I should try some when I get older."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 08:17:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 08:18:08 pm
Purchase one concealable knife, and one larger knife with an inscription that speaks to us. Also, buy some blue powder and bug oil.
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 08:30:10 pm
I think it would make sense to purchase a concealable knife for safety, and a different one for general use.
Purchase one concealable knife, and one larger knife with an inscription that speaks to us.
+1
Ask about the blue powder and bug oil: effects, side effects, and any addictive properties.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 08:30:48 pm
I'd be worried about what further drugging would do to our already ailing mind... knives are good tho. Nice to have a stabby-thing on hand for if our Cutter fails us.+1I think it would make sense to purchase a concealable knife for safety, and a different one for general use.
Purchase one concealable knife, and one larger knife with an inscription that speaks to us.
+1
Ask about the blue powder and bug oil: effects, side effects, and any addictive properties.
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 08:38:49 pm
oh oh
Pet, Threat: Mitch, the Barker
A stubby furred, stubby faced hellion of a canine that will possibly mutate in the future.
-0/50 Obedience
-1/50 Respect
Mitch the Murder-Pug has stats now
Happy :))
Also, "Threat"-- which amuses me to no end, especially given William was our other "Threat" listing! We're gonna have to devote some serious time to training up this thing so it doesn't maul somebody important when it grows up.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 09:02:42 pm
Spoiler: Literal Spoiler for Mitch's Potential (click to show/hide)
[15] "Fire blooms Flowers" Is one you find, and purchase-- the cost is exorbitant, and the woman refuses to haggle. -[1 credit] in local currency.
You purchase a smaller knife and an ankle sheath, as well. Once again, the shopkeeper shuts down your haggling. -[.3] credit in local currency.
It's a small matter to attach the larger, combat knife's sheath to your belt, right near the Cutter holster. You kneel down, attaching the other to your ankle, strapping it over your socks.
"The steel helmets are Outlander made. The Bioplastic ones are from SEED. The bioplastic is cheaper, and doesn't have any issues with rust or need oiling. Neither can truly stop a las-pistol blast, but the bioplastics of SEED can stop small conventional arm's fire, with luck. So can the steel one, but you need a bit more luck. Cutter Hilts can cut through both." Neither really compares to Lucille.
"The bug oil is a mystical sacrament." The spice peddler begins, "It doesn't form any physical addiction, but you may find yourself wanting another, to seek the truths about the world as they can only be experienced by your racing mind on the oils. You rub it into your skin, and you see many things as they should be, could be, or will be." [1 credit] in local currency, per bottle
"The blue powder is a concoction given to us by the Thornton Family Laboratory, for sale to all those who wish to have more energy. It reduces the appetite, promotes mental clarity, euphoria, and keeps you from feeling fear. It is an addictive substance, for who doesn't want just a little more energy? Take only the measured amounts, though, as in higher doses can kill you, or cause...you to have mild [psychosis]. You smoke it." He presents a glass pipe from behind his counter, which reeks of [ammonia] and other chemicals, the bottom blackened by heat. [.02 credits] in local currency, per dose
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 09:07:11 pm
Purchase 5 bottles of bug oil.
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 09:13:41 pm
You think its a pug. That's adorable.Spoiler: Literal Spoiler for Mitch's Potential (click to show/hide)
Well I said murder-pug didn't I? ;)
Let's go for... two bottles of bug oil? It's expensive stuff, and I doubt we'll be using it more than once.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 09:15:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 09:24:29 pm
"Do-don't move." A female voice murmurs, softly, glancing to Emma, who freezes, hand on her belt. The woman who has a knife to your back, her accent dips in and out of SEED and Outlander dialect. "E-easy now. No-no one has to get hurt, okay? You're rich, right? Fur coats and embroidery and shit. Just a few credits and we all walk away easy."
The knife isn't pressed against your spine, and besides for the hand on your shoulder, your arms are free. You're surprised of course, but you're more concerned with the fact you didn't hear her. Impressed, really. Emma raises a brow but calmly puts her hands into the pockets of her fur robe. She actually gives a giggle when she catches sight of your confused face. "W-what's so funny?!" The would-be mugger asks, a tinge of fear creeping into her voice.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 09:27:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 09:33:21 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 09:35:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 09:39:01 pm
"Listen, you can back up and let me get my wallet out, and I'll give you a few credits, or I can just remove your knife hand. What's it going to be?" Project our will onto her.
+1
Speak soft. Let the air hang heavy with our power.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 09:48:03 pm
[20] "Need some help, Alphira?" Emma asks, cheekily.
"I'll take those five credits, instead," Your mugger murmurs, after a beat, the sharp knife drawing blood from your back is removed slowly, deliberately, carefully.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 09:50:30 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 09:53:10 pm
Turn around and get a look at our assailant.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 10:02:22 pm
Trained
"I'll make sure to tell my non-existent children if I don't die in the next five minutes. Something felt off about you. Probably should have thought-thought better." She rambles a little, holding the wallet back out towards you. "I-I didn't take anything yet."
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 10:04:58 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 10:05:56 pm
Nod. "I believe you." Take our wallet back, and give the girl what was agreed-- with respect.I'm fine with this, but make sure to check the wallet and our possessions to make sure she truly hasn't taken anything.
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 10:07:13 pm
Nod. "I believe you." Take our wallet back, and give the girl what was agreed-- with respect.I'm fine with this, but make sure to check the wallet and our possessions to make sure she truly hasn't taken anything.
Heh, fair enough. +1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 10:24:00 pm
[1] She hesitates. slipping the knife back into its sheath, making a show of it while keeping eye contact with you-- her eyes drift towards the alleyway. Then she lunges at you with a swing of her first--
[16 vs 16] Surprised, you twist out of the way, slamming your shoulder into her solar plexus. She hits the ground with a grunt of pain, but is back on her feet in an instant, tackling you to the ground. You're surprised at how strong she is, but she's already panting with exertion, while you're not even warmed up yet.
[10 vs 4] You don't think she was expecting you to hit her in the face that hard, but it sends her sprawling away from you. You feel bones crack. She spits blood, rising back to her feet when you do. She stares, and all you see in her eyes is calculation- fear. A massive bruise blooms across her face as she drops to her knees in a bow.
"I've shown you what I can do. I need work. I need more than this."
Emma watches with a bored, almost contemptuous expression as the girl extends out the wad of bills you gave her. "Why do people like her think this all you answer to?" She complains with a sigh, "Do you just radiate a 'try me' [aura, presence, willpower], or something?"
The woman says nothing.
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 10:29:09 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 10:36:35 pm
"What's your name and what are your skills? The ones I've seen so far are impressive."+1 My name’s Phoebe
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 10:39:53 pm
"What say you?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 10:43:49 pm
"I am a full [warrior of a clan-structure]. I have ambushed a Barker and made a knife with its [roughly translates to 'rib bone over heart']."
To your offer, all she does is lift a shirt-sleeve. Emma winces. A brand of SEED's symbol scarred into her skin, and she's tried to cut it off, judging by the scar tissue that dances across it.
"I cannot join the C-crusaders." She replies, in hesitant SEED dialect.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 10:48:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 10:48:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 03, 2020, 10:51:57 pm
"You would be a welcome addition to my personal guard. I think you would also take well to assassination or intelligence gathering tasks. Let me take you to a doctor to see to your wounds. If you're still interested, I would be glad to have you, Lyal."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 10:55:48 pm
You know, I have to ask... d'you draw inspiration from Dune, perchance? ;)
Let a bit of bitterness into our voice. "Ah. The mercy of SEED."
"...Let the Crusaders speak as they may."
"You would be a welcome addition to my personal guard. I think you would also take well to assassination or intelligence gathering tasks. Let me take you to a doctor to see to your wounds. If you're still interested, I would be glad to have you, Lyal."+1
+1-- is "Iyal" tho, not "Lyal".
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 03, 2020, 11:12:48 pm
[8-3] Iyal bows her head as you approach. You press a hand to her wounded face-- and try to use your willpower to knit the wound back together. It-its too complicated to try and knit the veins and flesh and carbon strains back together. She flinches, and the bruise deepens in color, but she doesn't complain.
After a beat, you extend your offer. All the tension that was flowing through her fades, and she lowers her head to the ground. You extend a hand to help her up after you introduce yourself, properly, but she doesn't take it, rising on her own with another thankful half-bow.
"I'll have the Thornton bath-maids clean her up, and Silas to tend to her injuries. I don't think that even you can do anything about her [debt-slave brand]. She'll have to hide it or embrace it." Emma explains, watching Iyal with a calculating, hard gaze. Emma sighs, approaching the woman and towering over her.
"I am...Pheobe's [spouse, consort, first companion], and her second in command, Emma Thornton. If you mugged me, you'd be dead by now." Emma explains, calmly, with her ice-cold voice, stating simple facts. You're reminded of when she was made dorm-captain, and how she whipped the other students into discipline with that same voice. Iyal bows at her hips to Emma after glancing between the two of you with open confusion.
"Right. Wonderful." Emma continues, looping a robe covered arm into yours. "Shall we continue?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 03, 2020, 11:20:04 pm
"Yes, dear."
Post by: Superdorf on April 03, 2020, 11:24:10 pm
Was it the bright blue eyes or the prescience that gave it away? If you're asking, I might have gone too far. But all the anime and sci-fi games should balance it out. I hope. ;-;
Hold up that prescience thing was serious? I'm... really tempted now to give that a try sometime.
Seriously tho, was a compliment not a condemnation! I've a deep and abiding love for Dune-- and in drawing from it (and from whatever else), you've created something truly compelling. I am grateful. ;D
Interesting title there. Second-in-command.
I mean, she ain't wrong.
"Yes, dear."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 12:03:13 am
William watches the two of you approach from atop his [beast of burden]. He looks between Mitch and Iyal with only mild surprise, "Are you picking up strays now? Such a charitable [angel]."
You and Emma mount up on the [beast] with the most comfortable saddle. Iyal walks beside it, nearby you. The Warmachines form up beside the animals, marching along and protecting your flanks.
You set off in the night, the beast following its siblings with no need for guidance from you. You take the time to cuddle with a dozing Emma, keeping your eyes fixed on the bright lamp illuminating a Thornton banner at the front of the march.
The trip takes quite some time, your new bodyguard marching along faithfully, even as night turns into day. As you go over the top of a hill, you see it over another, cresting with the rising sun of the morning over snow-covered hills.
It's a castle, that's the only word for it . It's a high construction built from the reddish-gray granite of the mountains, reinforced with thick walls of steel. Surrounding it is a small town, filled with factories and cypress houses. Around that is a high concrete fence, topped with barbed wire, and patrolled by Warmachines. A messenger walks out the great you from the gates of both castle and fortification to speak to William. You're surprised at the ground he covers.
"This is nothing like the Moore Villa." You murmur to a smiling Emma.
"That's because they got soft," Emma responds gently.
The gates swing open, and you're lead through. It doesn't take long for the Warmachines to break off, drifting down the alleyways to embrace loved ones and their children. Some look a little less happy, welcoming those that return while mourning their lost loves. You try not to dwell on it.
William and a small honor guard approach the castle, who's steel gates swing down. The only welcoming party is servants, hurrying to take bags and assist Emma off the beast. Emma's fake smile appears as she directs them to and fro. Silas and Iyal are bundled away together after he sees to Emma's hand.
Eventually, the hubbub dies down. Emma, with a knowing grin, takes your hand, leading you down brightly lit and plush corridors, to the smell of food.
The Kitchen is modern in all appearances, run by an imposing, round woman with plenty of scars on her full arms. You note it's not all fat- there is muscle there too. She breaks away from a cowering cook when the two of you open the kitchen doors. The woman's eyes brighten when she sees Emma, and she strides forth to embrace your lover in a tight bear-hug. Mitch pops out of Emma's fur robe, surprised, but sits silently.
"My, you've grown!" The woman speaks, laughing.
"I have, although I've missed your food! I've lost a lot of weight subsisting on grain-meal alone!"
"Poor dear," The Chef teases, "My my, the pretty [princess] having to lose a few pounds and put on some muscle! Such a shame--" Her eyes flick to you, "At least you don't have to worry about impressing the boys anymore, although I can barely tell that he's a man!"
"That's my lover, Pheobe." The chef's lips split into a gap-toothed grin.
"I'm [Chef] Mary Thornton, and the gardener owes me [2 credits in local currency.]!"
"Chef Mary!"
"Oh hush, you always eyed the new serving girls more than your brother did-- it was a sure bet!" She rounds on you with that smile, extending a scarred hand your way, "As she said, I'm Chef Mary Thornton. It's a pleasure to meet anyone who can put up with Emma. Your name was...Pheobe...?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
: IyalPost by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 12:13:22 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 12:21:14 am
You'll never get a straight answer, but you had a moment on page 19.
...holy cow.
I'm... I'm gonna have to re-read everything, just to pick up all the references I missed the first time! :o
Smile and shake her hand. "I'm Phoebe and it's very nice to meet you, ma'am. Any friend of Emma is a friend of mine."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 12:42:33 am
"Well, I wanted to see you." Emma grins, but takes a seat as Mary bustles into a massive walk-in fridge.
"Sure, sure! More like you wanted to show off your lover. Pheobe Gainer. Related to Black Nicky, no doubt. I knew you had a firm grip since I shook your hand!"
Mary, despite her size, is all deft movements, only glancing at the two of you when Emma asks her to make triple the amount for you. "Big eater?"
She cooks for a little while, the smell of herbs and the sizzling of food in the pan filling the air. She puts heaping plates of eggs, pancakes and sausage potato hash in front of the two of you. She sits down with a bottle of wine, which she drinks without a cup, eying the two of you as you dig into the meal.
Mary, is, without a doubt, the best chef who's the food you had the honor of tasting. The eggs are light, fluffy, moist, salted and filled with mountain herbs. The hash is crisp on the outside and exploding with flavor, the insides soft and sweet, complimenting the carmalized sausage and soft onions. The pancakes are like biting into a yeasty, sweet cloud, and the syrup she makes, then offers, only serves to improve an already amazing dish.
By the end of it, you and Emma are stuffed, watched by a grinning and triumphant Chef Mary. Half of the new bottle of wine is gone, and she has a rosy tinge to her cheeks. "Good, right."
"Could've used more salt." Emma snarks, feeding bits of sausage to a hungry Mitch.
"It was perfect." You offer, with a genuine smile.
"Easy there girl, you got something brown on your nose!" Mary points a finger at your nose.
"So...Mary, as wonderful as it is to see you, I was wondering if you could catch me up on everything."
Mary suddenly looks serious, draining the bottle as she looks to Emma. "He's pissed. Brooding in his room. Not eating. I'd be worried about Billy losing a hand if it wasn't for the new limbs. We've never lost so many before."
"He must have seen the gains we've made." Emma protests, her levity gone.
"He sees the losses. The money. The land. I won't tell you otherwise even if you ask me in private."
Emma sighs, leaning into you. Mitch squirms from her pocket, jumping on the table to lick at the empty plates. Mary eyes the puppy, trying to prod it off with her empty bottle. It snaps, biting into the glass and shattering it. The Chef frowns, and, instead of messing with the puppy more, she calls for a steak.
Mitch eats noisily, gnawing on the sinewy and fatty piece of insect flesh. Meanwhile, Mary fills Emma in on all the goings on in the castle with a practiced air. By the time she and Emma are finished, the kitchen is at full steam, and Mitch sits in broken glass happily, sleeping off its most recent meal.
"Be careful you don't lose fingers with those two." Mary calls after you and Emma, as you gently lift the puppy off the table and leave the kitchen. Emma sticks her tongue out at Mary, turning to you with a giddy grin, "Hey! Where would you like to see first?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 12:46:21 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 12:48:53 am
"Anywhere! Everywhere!" Laugh. "You know all the best spots here, I'm sure."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 01:14:47 am
"Scenery." You answer, grinning back. After brief detour to the empty kennel area, where you deposit Mitch into a bundle of old cloth in a heated room, you follow Emma.
The tower is indeed a magnificent view of the scenery, commanding a lookout overflowing hills, smooth valleys, and even rugged cliffs. The mountains rise into the distance above, flowing into hills and valleys line with small farms and villages. Flowing rivers cut through the stone, carving away red and gray granite, smoothing the walls of immense cliffs into soft, sloping pastures for [beasts of burden]. Away, in the distance, you see a glimpse of what the planet was before, you assume, SEED's impact. Its a flat sandy-gray, populated by sparse grasses, the occasional blue blimp of roving [beasts of burden] and great craters, some filled with gleaming red waters. The sun melts the snow, and you can see hardy grasses peeking through, trying to get the last bit of sunlight they can before winter truly arrives.
Then she leads you down, through three different libraries. One, with a glimpse of the spines, is filled with mostly technical treatises on the world around you. Many bear the emblem of SEED. The next, is filled with old books, and a trio of women, the eldest of who dictates to the middle-aged, while the youngest copies word for word into another book.
They dip nods to Emma as the two of you pass by, but keep focused on their task. The next library is filled with books on military matters and is much smaller. Instead, a good majority of the room is filled with a line of old armor and weapons.
You pause here as Emma hangs off you. The first armor is a set of primitive leather and studded iron. The next is something approaching brigandine, and the next is full plate. Soon after that, however, is the plastics of SEED, impressed upon iron to reinforce it while giving mobility. Next is kevlar, with steel bands-- and then it comes to what you know, the off-white plastic armor that SEED provides.
The weapons follow a similar progression. Crude revolvers and long swords dwindling down into the sharp lines of las-guns and combat knives. At the very end, however, you notice that there is a space being cleared. The armor stand being set up is roughly [eight feet tall], and the weapons that fill the case in front of it are all Thornton Brand; a massive cutter hilt and a de-activated fusion reactor based assault rifle.
"Our Family is old." Emma offers, by way of explanation. "The west was the last place to be...'civilized' by SEED."
You're led into the basement next-- but you can feel it through the floorboards. The energetic heartbeat of a massive fusion reactor. Down, down further you go, until you see it. It's huge! Thin old men in red robes check gauges, pump hydrogen and purge contaminants. "It powers the entire town. The outlying villages rely on solar power, of course, but a lot of our basement levels are power hogs-- I'll show you the research and development areas after...tomorrow."
Finally, you retrieve Mitch, who gnaws on the steel structure of its kennel with a sense of boredom. It seems to perk up when you pick it up, snapping at you-
[6 vs 10] And its teeth connect with your flesh, leaving you with a bloody hand. Emma scolds it, even as the wound, shallow as it is, seals itself quickly with scab tissue.
The next stop in your trip around the castle is, unsurprisingly, Emma's bedroom. It's larger than any bedroom you've even seen. A large four-poster bed, a desk surrounded by ornate, wooden bookcases and a fireplace, crackling away with a contained hydrogen fire. The two of you set Mitch down, and he curls up beside the fire.
The two of you do not follow his lead-- instead, you curl up with each other.
A few hours, and a scandalized house servant later, you pull on your freshly laundered 'dress' clothes, just in time for William to knock at the door. "The Banquet is ready, Em. Phebe. Get ready." Opening the door after he leaves, you find a small box-- with a set of las-pistols within.
How do you prepare for tonight?
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 01:17:49 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 01:34:45 am
"Emma, who are your staunchest loyalists here? How many troops do you command?"
+1
Post by: King Zultan on April 04, 2020, 09:59:55 am
+1"Emma, who are your staunchest loyalists here? How many troops do you command?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 12:48:12 pm
"My guess is William and Father will argue over it. Maybe William will have to fight. He's been training hard though. Every waking hour. Unless his life or limb is threatened, we're staying out of it. If he sways the soldiers, father will have no choice. If he doesn't..." Emma leans over to kiss you.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 01:19:47 pm
Seats at all the first row of tables are left vacant, with filled glasses of wine sitting unattended. There's probably twenty and a half of these empty spots, and you can feel your heart sink. At the first table you see, sits William, alone, head resting on his hands. In front of him is an overturned, empty glass.
William is focused on the seats on the dais in front of him, on a large, ornate wooden chair that sits empty. Several people sit elevated there, clad in elegant tunics and greatcoats. There's only one empty one seat elevated above the rest, besides the main seat, at its right hand.
Emma comes to a stop. Her grip tightens on your hand.
[1]Sitting on the table, beside William, is another overturned glass, with an open chair in front of it. Then you realize what this all resembles-- a trial. "Damnit," Emma whispers.
You look to her in confusion.
"Father means to try you the same as, William." Her eyes linger on the chair beside the head of the household's. Softly, she whispers, "Do you trust me?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 01:33:56 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 04, 2020, 01:45:32 pm
"Always."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 01:48:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 04, 2020, 01:49:35 pm
Emma hasn't time to tell us, methinks-- hence the trust thing.oh, ok, will edit the plan bit out
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 02:43:41 pm
[7] He doesn't greet you, eyes on the empty throne directly in front of him. Through the...connection? You share, you can tell that he's afraid.
You wait in silence.
From a side door, William Senior emerges. His long blond hair hanging around his shoulder, thin and patchy from age. His skin is pale, paler than anyone you've seen on this world. He walks with the help of a cane, and each step radiates pain and effort. A small fusion reactor hums on his person, and the faint clanking of machinery can be heard radiating out from him. He looks tired, haggard, and unwashed.
He takes his seat at the throne and looks down upon his son and you. He doesn't address the two of you yet, instead taking his glass of wine. The crowd of quiet people mimic his movements. William and you are unable to.
"To those that have fallen. We honor their memory and the memory of all brave Thorntons." He toasts, loudly, his voice echoing through the silent hall. Everyone drains their glass, setting it back down. "Unfortunately, before we can continue our remembrance, we must judge the two who lead them to their deaths. My prodigal son and Alphira, 'the Angel of SEED'."
"Let it be known; I have no intention of harming Alphira, as that falls far beyond my power." His dark eyes drift to William, he doesn't promise the same. "Alphira, as guest, you have the right to speak first, and the longer I don't have to hear the sniveling of the beast beside you that I once called son the better. What is your defense for the loss of twenty five Thorntons?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 02:49:57 pm
"Their involvement in the battle saved more lives than were lost, and the Thorntons will be remembered as brave and determined allies. There is much power and influence to be gained if you will continue to support our efforts."
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 02:55:09 pm
"I honor the brave sacrifices of the Thorntons that came to my aid. Without them, the battle would surely have been lost, the new King of the Dead would have assaulted the Holy City, throwing our world into abrupt chaos."
"Their involvement in the battle saved more lives than were lost, and the Thorntons will be remembered as brave and determined allies. There is much power and influence to be gained if you will continue to support our efforts."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 03:01:20 pm
"If the Holy City falls is none of our concern. The Thorntons have existed before SEED and will continue long after SEED falls to these foes of its own creation. Anything else to say, Alphira?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 03:11:45 pm
It occurs to me that here, of all places, our words of treason against SEED might be well received. We could play that card... but of course, word would most likely find its way back to the Holy City somehow. Again, this would be easier if it wasn't so public...
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 03:16:11 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 03:25:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 03:37:34 pm
[9+1/15] "All the more reason to retain our strength and not waste it fighting for SEED." William Sr. makes a show of thinking, however. "Hmmh. Your offer is tempting, Angel. Truly it is-- in fact, I will agree to it." He lifts a finger, a very Thornton, sardonic grin spreading across his face. "Bring back the dead Thorntons. Is that within your power?"
When you make to protest, if you make to protest, he lifts a finger for silence. William sets a hand on your shoulder gently, and shakes his head to you. "May I have permission to speak, sir?"
"As opposed to it as I am, I do suppose I have to let you try and worm your way out of this."
[16/15] "Alphira presents a unique opportunity to the Thornton Family. One that could not be ignored. This world will eventually be ours, that is true. As our ancestors willed long ago. One day or another, one future or another. We will rise- but what then after that? We languish here. We die with the sun and our name fades to dust, or the 'void' opens its mouth and spits out a challenge we cannot fight, one we cannot win against." Small murmurs of disbelief echo through the crowd. "And the void is true, a fact of our existance-- do not believe me?" William peels off his glove, showing the blackened cybernetic limb. "With this limb, and the blessing of my void-born comrade here, the one who I spent Thornton lives to save, I've reached levels of strength that can rival the Warmachines of our future. Besides that--"
[19] A small, blueish fire burns forth from William's hand-- the crowd goes silent with awe. "Phe-- Alphira, the woman beside me, can destroy any Warmachine with her bare hands. She granted this power to me by right of Blood, after I risked my life to save her."
"Like the tales of McCreary of old, there's truth in that there are other worlds than this one. That there our other futures for the Thornton family-- but only, only if we risk everything for Alphira. She has made me a devotee, father. Which is why I ask you; let me take the reins of the family."
"Bold words for the commander who lost more soldiers than anyone in our history." William Sr. counters.
"Boldness. Bravery. What else should a Thornton want for?"
[1] "I refuse. You are not of my Family anymore, William. Your failures, your temperament, your loyalty to...whatever this [demon] is that sits beside you. They all conspire against you."
[-] "Then I wish to duel you for the right."
[12] "To the death. Champions only. Let us see what your new master can do. Nothing but parlor tricks, I think." William flinches at his Father's words, glancing at you. "If she can match any Warmachine, then perhaps two will suffice to challenge her-- its only fair?"
"I ask too much of you Pheobe, but I ask another favor." William murmurs gently, slumping into his chair.
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 03:43:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 03:52:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 03:58:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 03:59:41 pm
"You treasure the lives of your soldiers so... and you would expend two to make a point?"
...
"...if this is what it takes to earn your respect, then so be it."
"I will fight for you."
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 04:10:06 pm
...right. Misunderstood a moment what we were being asked to do.+1
"You treasure the lives of your soldiers so... and you would expend two to make a point?"
...
"...if this is what it takes to earn your respect, then so be it.""I will fight for you."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 04:39:46 pm
William moves to take your coat and spare weapons, leaving you with a cutter hilt. Two fully armored Warmachines tromp out into the courtyard across from you, cutter hilts in hand. William Sr. leans on his cane, opposing you from beyond the two soldiers. Emma hovers by his shoulder with an expressionless face. The two chosen champions bow to you, and you do the same. Cutter hilts flare forth with contained fires. The Thornton's have a longer reach, and their blades burn white compared to your blue. Less powerful, but without your armor, it doesn't matter.
The fight begins, and they circle you.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 04:42:06 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 04:47:09 pm
Let's see... fully armored means we can't just roast these guys. I wonder, though...
Can we pop the reactors of our enemy's Cutters?
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 04:49:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 04:50:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 04:51:35 pm
Use Inferno to get out of explosion/Cutter range, and then try this:
Can we pop the reactors of our enemy's Cutters?
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 04:54:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 04:59:34 pm
[18/20] They both pop, the hydrogen surging forth out of the reactor-- one burns itself away harmlessly, burning the dirt below with gleaming hot fire that leaves it glassy and gray. The other one explodes more violently, blowing away the cybernetic hand of the champion. He staggers, surprised-- you start to surge forward to deal a blow--
[8] "Stop the fight! The Thornton champions both suffered weapon failures." William Sr. announces, and you nearly stumble from your own momentum. "Replace them-- and the hand, if you please." He directs the onlookers.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 05:02:34 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 05:02:50 pm
...on second thought, we really don't need to drag Alphira into this.
"I caused those weapon failures. What trickery is this? Do not interfere and stain yourself with dishonor."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 05:13:24 pm
[15] You've convinced a fair few in the crowd, you can tell, but no one protests when the Champions begin to receive aid from their fellow Warmachines. Part of you wants to lash out at all of them, but you hold back, beginning to pace around the edge of your side of the ring. They are re-armed. In one case, literally. Then you begin again.
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 05:15:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 05:17:42 pm
...right. Again with our will and our detonations.+1. Dodge with Inferno any incoming Cutter strikes.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 05:55:19 pm
William Sr. stares, silently. Finally, "It was to the death."
"Father!" William states, glaring as he enters the ring. "They are incapacitated by her will alone, and still you play semantics. What more proof of power do you need?"
[1] "Draw your weapons and kill all of them. Alphira, the failures, Willia--" William Sr. cuts himself off as Emma draws out her pistol and pushes it to his back.
[16 vs 19] He twists, pivoting quickly and swinging his fist into Emma's face-- she's stunned, and his hand goes to the pistol, trying to wrench it away from her. You begin to move, only to be blocked by a Warmachine-- your fist curls as you try to swing--
[9 vs 15] [20 vs 14] The trigger clicks as Emma pulls it. William Sr. pulls the las-pistol away, turning it on his daughter, who stumbles back to try and get out of the way-- your fist impacts the steel helmet of the Thornton Warmachine even as his large fingers fumble for a weapon. The metal dents beneath your hand, and he's knocked over--
[6 vs 13] [16 vs 1] William Sr. aims--, turns the safety off, and pulls the trigger. Emma screams as red mist erupts from her shoulder, the bone shattering and-- William Sr. collapses, falling forward with a hole in his head. You glance back as William lowers his pistol, looking remorseful. You rush to Emma's side without a word, peeling off your coat to wrap around the shattered flesh and bone, holding it tightly. She breathes hard, focusing on you, she starts to giggle through her labored, pained breaths, "Fu-fuck. I fucked up."
Silas is pushing his way through the crowd, carrying a bag with a red cross rune on it. He nudges you out of the way-- not even glancing to William Sr as he begins to triage Emma's mangled shoulder. "Bring her to the medical bay!" The Thornton Warmachines hesitate. You growl, leaning down and picking up Emma without effort, carrying her to a sterile room. Emma shifts closer to you, even as she bleeds on you, her voice becoming halting-- "I-I guess I don't have to worry abou-" She drifts off, color draining from her face, leaving her blue. Blood pools on the bed beneath her.
Silas swears, pushing you away as he pulls blood packs from a nearby fridge, setting up a transfusion station-- a nurse comes in, helping to stem the flow of blood from her gaping shoulder wound.
You step back, giving them room to work. Anger. Fear. Hatred. It all boils inside of you.
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 06:12:00 pm
Stay near.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 06:41:17 pm
Then he begins to pack the wound with sterilized gauze, which slowly begins to seep red-- he continues this process until the bleeding slows and Emma stabilizes. Her pale chest is covered with blood, and her breath is ragged and shallow. The wound is deep. But she lives. "She's going to lose function in her arm. I can't fit her with cybernetics," he begins, "Too much structural damage in the shoulder." He rises to wash and reclaims his seat, holding a hand over his mouth, muffling his voice as he explains to a nurse taking notes, "Her organs might have been damaged, as well. Possible brain damage."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 07:02:14 pm
...
"William. Find him, bring him here. Tell him what you just told that nurse."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 07:13:08 pm
[16] He sits on one of the beds, covering his face with his hands and staying silent as the nurse lists the possible issues that will further complicate from Emma's injury. And she finishes with something that makes your heart hurt "...if she makes it through the night."
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 07:31:29 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 07:50:27 pm
Approach. Speak soft, halting. "William-- there's something I can still try-- you know what--"
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 07:50:49 pm
That's why I had us call in William.+1
Approach. Speak soft, halting. "William-- there's something I can still try-- you know what--"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 08:09:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 08:10:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 08:51:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 09:19:23 pm
To that end...
E̸m̶m̸a̶ ̷i̵s̵ ̷b̵r̴o̶k̶e̷n̷.̴ ̸W̷e̷ ̶c̶a̴n̶ ̷r̵e̴p̷a̴i̸r̸ ̸h̴e̷r̶.̴.̵.̸ ̷b̷u̶t̴ ̵̰͛͑I̸̭̓̈́ ̵̧͉̓n̵̟̋é̵̫̀e̵͉͓̎d̴͈̆͠ ̷̖̈y̵͖̰͌o̶͍͌͐ȕ̶̡̻͊r̵͌̇͜͜ ̵͕̀g̶̡̳͒̿ú̵̼i̶̜̿̑d̸͖̈͠á̶͓n̵͖̝̋̎c̷̭̦̐e̷͈̖͂.̷̥̏
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 09:21:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 09:30:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 09:35:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 09:40:23 pm
̨̪͕͓̪
͓̟͇͍̻̲͖>_͕
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 09:41:44 pm
Hmm. That makes sense, but why the VOID instead of Alphira?
She's... either dormant, or deeply furious with us for hiding that [plague] infection from her. Seems a bad time to be asking favors.
Meanwhile, we seem to have impressed upon VOID the need to keep Emma alive. I'm hoping it'll be willing to act to that end.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 09:43:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:01:47 pm
Deactivate reproduction controls. Override: Alphira. Mission sensitive VIP in critical condition
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 10:09:43 pm
D̢̯̺̰̣̟̙̝̦̐̔͛ė̬̘̰̻̰͕͈̖̉ͮ̑̄ă̷͚͕̮͉̔ͅc̘̻̻̘̅ͭ͛͜t̡̻̹̩̩̔͆̽̌̀i̵̥̫̫̰̺͈͔̙͑͗͜ͅv̌̄̾͏͍̝a̡̻͎̅͊̌̍̚͢͡t̶̛͙̘̺̫̗ͨ͐̑ͯ̓ͮ͂͂̅e̬̞̼̹͙͎̩̾ͣ̔̂̾́̎̄̍ ̨̦̮̝̝̦͔̍́̉r̶͔̜̝̭͚͕͓̥̈́̆̃̄͑ȅ͍̹̻̜͎͇̪͚̱ṕ̶̥̫̖̝̉ͥ͒͛ͤr̶̝̭̗͙̰͖͇̙̮̀ͪ͗ͯo̵̧̗͍̲͇͎ͣ̄̐̏̋̚ͅͅḏ̶̼̱̙̤̙ͩͬ̑̒̂́u̶͕͕̻͓̓͑͌ͮ͠c̸̥͉̯̉t̹͔̻͓͂ͯ̄̽̈̑ͩ͜i͈̝͔͉͋͊̂̎́͂̐̑̿̀͜ŏ̷̰̼̖͖̝̪̠ͥ̂͛̿͞n̫̳̾̽̀̈̎̀̾̚ ̺̺̇ͨͬͨ̈ͧͮ̃c̋͠͏̝̤̻͍͓ȯ̴̢̹̺͔̈́ͪ͊̍̿ͩ̈͘ņ̵͉̱͙̜ͮ̄̌͟t̡̳͔͛ͪ͑̔͂͟͝ř̝̖̲̝͉̉̉ͣ̈́͊̓̚ͅơ̜̠̋ͭͧͬͤͭ͘l̸͕̯̗̈̏͜ͅs̫̞̬̥̖̹̭̥͒̊ͨ͜ͅ.̫͌̔ͫ͆̐ͅ ̝̞͚̍̓̾ͨ̋ͤ̀͘͢O̴̠͓͌̒͛̐́͞v̶̮̮̱̮̖̠ͨ̊̕ḛ̞̳̹ͨ̀͐̓ͥ̒̀̚ͅr̶͎͔͕̩ͬ̂̋͊͒̅͌͠r̨͈̬̤̯̠̪̣̝͓̐̒͂̎͋͗̀i̶̬ͪͥ̈́̀͠d͔̹̥̞̩͇̑̇̂͋ͮ̕eͬ̓̏̾̐ͫ̽̀̚̕҉̘̫̪͚͎͉ͅ:̨̱͙̅ͧ̎̿̓͛̀͡ ̡͈͔̪͉͓̱͑̒͟A̘̻̺ͣ͗̃ͭ̆ͮ̕lͣ̓̐ͫ҉̬͕͍̜̪̦̩̕̕p̬̰͔̗͚͉͚̲͎͐̍͛̇̑̀́͟͟h̸̲͕̼̰̜̿̒̒̕i̧ͯ͂҉͙ŗ̘͎͎̇̿ͣ̾̐͠͡a̬̙̤̾́.̛̭̹̤̺̿̃̚͡ ̭̮̪͕̙͉͔͐͐̒̓ͩͤͅM̹̗̆̌͋̅͆̈́͝î͓̭͎̞͉͖ͪ͛ͦ̀̿̓̚s̨̢̳̭̙̫̜͐ͣͭ̔͡ŝ͂̿̚͝҉̳i̴̩ͪ̎͡o̰͙͎̙͎͔̿ͮͮ̎̈́̚͡͞n͓͙ͯͥ̓̽͗͘̕ ̛͍̖̲͓̹̪̪͒̾̉͗ͦͅs̶̢͈͎̭͂̒̒̑ͣ͊͘ĕ̟͖͓̱̪̘̅̅̽̚͞n̶̹̮̭͈̞̈ͤ͜s̳̹̥͕ͮ͌̋ͯ̈́̕į̴̬͈̾̐̔̈́̑ͅt̵̯̻̃̃̈i̩̣͙̝̔͗ͨ̽̍ͬv̀̍̌҉̱̠̲̬̲e̶̷͎ͬ͛͋ͥ̄̅ͯ́ ̮̠̫̙̟̿ͫ̒͗͑̐ͯ̒V̛̱̭̹͚̬͓̜͎̏̍ͫ̀͂̀Į̢ͩ͛͊̓͏̲̮̫̖̪̲̣P̠̻͈̮̰̿ͣͩ̉̎ͧͯ̑͗ ̖̪͍͉̝͚̪͕̉ͨ̓i̳̮̽̔ͨ̒͋͜ň̊ͦ̇͐̍̃͏̢̼̫̖̖̤̠ ͇͚͊ͦͮ͑ͨ̔͛c̰͖̼̼̙͙̬̋͛̊ͮ̔̀r̡ͯͧ̊҉͈̱͖i̸̖̮̓̑ţͤ̌͋̃͊̚҉̭̘̘͖̝͈̟͎̠i̷ͩ̎ͭ͏͔ͅc̷̦̤̖͖̬̤̙ͯͪͧ̐͗̈́ͨ͢a̐̀̿ͨͩ̎͏͔̖̣͉ľ̴͕̦̙͍̟̥̮̉́ ͔͙̀ͫ̒ͦ̎͂̉̂c̭ͮ̓ȍ̶͙̒̽n̨̥̘͖͍͈͎̅͊͌ͧd̡̙̱̘͎͈̹̖̲̄ͪ͠i̗ͪ̑ͯ̀ͥ͒̈̔͘͟t̛̛̮͓̄ͮͫ̓̀ͅį̮͖ͨ̑̈̇ͤ͞ō͉̞̤̙̣̻͢͝ͅn̺̟̍ͧͨ̊͠.̩̫̳̤̌ͭͯͪ̀ͦ
Quote from: De-Zalgo'd
Deactivate reproduction controls. Override: Alphira. Mission sensitive VIP in critical condition.
...but I'm worried applying the same procedure to Emma we did to William could break her mind outright. Better to see if we can't find a less invasive way of doing this.
.̴.̷.̸r̶i̵g̵h̸t̴.̶ ̵Y̶o̸u̵'̷r̸e̷ ̴a̸ ̷m̷a̸c̴h̶i̵n̶e̴.̵̸
̵Q̶u̶e̶r̶y̵:̵ ̶c̸a̷n̴ ̴o̶u̵r̷ ̶b̶l̴o̶o̷d̵ ̶b̸e̷ ̴u̶s̶e̴d̴ ̶t̴o̷ ̷h̶e̵a̴l̶ ̵a̸n̸o̵t̶h̷e̵r̴ ̸w̶i̴t̵h̵o̶u̵t̷ ̴o̸v̷e̸r̶r̶i̴d̶i̶n̵g̷ ̷t̶h̸e̸ ̶s̷u̶b̴j̵e̸c̷t̴ ̴w̶i̵t̵h̸ ̷o̶u̸r̵ ̶o̸w̷n̶ ̷p̸e̸r̸s̷o̷n̷a̸l̸i̷t̷y̷ ̴i̶n̴ ̴t̴h̵e̶ ̷p̶r̴o̶c̸e̷s̶s̶?̵
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:26:51 pm
That's the original, yeah...+1D̢̯̺̰̣̟̙̝̦̐̔͛ė̬̘̰̻̰͕͈̖̉ͮ̑̄ă̷͚͕̮͉̔ͅc̘̻̻̘̅ͭ͛͜t̡̻̹̩̩̔͆̽̌̀i̵̥̫̫̰̺͈͔̙͑͗͜ͅv̌̄̾͏͍̝a̡̻͎̅͊̌̍̚͢͡t̶̛͙̘̺̫̗ͨ͐̑ͯ̓ͮ͂͂̅e̬̞̼̹͙͎̩̾ͣ̔̂̾́̎̄̍ ̨̦̮̝̝̦͔̍́̉r̶͔̜̝̭͚͕͓̥̈́̆̃̄͑ȅ͍̹̻̜͎͇̪͚̱ṕ̶̥̫̖̝̉ͥ͒͛ͤr̶̝̭̗͙̰͖͇̙̮̀ͪ͗ͯo̵̧̗͍̲͇͎ͣ̄̐̏̋̚ͅͅḏ̶̼̱̙̤̙ͩͬ̑̒̂́u̶͕͕̻͓̓͑͌ͮ͠c̸̥͉̯̉t̹͔̻͓͂ͯ̄̽̈̑ͩ͜i͈̝͔͉͋͊̂̎́͂̐̑̿̀͜ŏ̷̰̼̖͖̝̪̠ͥ̂͛̿͞n̫̳̾̽̀̈̎̀̾̚ ̺̺̇ͨͬͨ̈ͧͮ̃c̋͠͏̝̤̻͍͓ȯ̴̢̹̺͔̈́ͪ͊̍̿ͩ̈͘ņ̵͉̱͙̜ͮ̄̌͟t̡̳͔͛ͪ͑̔͂͟͝ř̝̖̲̝͉̉̉ͣ̈́͊̓̚ͅơ̜̠̋ͭͧͬͤͭ͘l̸͕̯̗̈̏͜ͅs̫̞̬̥̖̹̭̥͒̊ͨ͜ͅ.̫͌̔ͫ͆̐ͅ ̝̞͚̍̓̾ͨ̋ͤ̀͘͢O̴̠͓͌̒͛̐́͞v̶̮̮̱̮̖̠ͨ̊̕ḛ̞̳̹ͨ̀͐̓ͥ̒̀̚ͅr̶͎͔͕̩ͬ̂̋͊͒̅͌͠r̨͈̬̤̯̠̪̣̝͓̐̒͂̎͋͗̀i̶̬ͪͥ̈́̀͠d͔̹̥̞̩͇̑̇̂͋ͮ̕eͬ̓̏̾̐ͫ̽̀̚̕҉̘̫̪͚͎͉ͅ:̨̱͙̅ͧ̎̿̓͛̀͡ ̡͈͔̪͉͓̱͑̒͟A̘̻̺ͣ͗̃ͭ̆ͮ̕lͣ̓̐ͫ҉̬͕͍̜̪̦̩̕̕p̬̰͔̗͚͉͚̲͎͐̍͛̇̑̀́͟͟h̸̲͕̼̰̜̿̒̒̕i̧ͯ͂҉͙ŗ̘͎͎̇̿ͣ̾̐͠͡a̬̙̤̾́.̛̭̹̤̺̿̃̚͡ ̭̮̪͕̙͉͔͐͐̒̓ͩͤͅM̹̗̆̌͋̅͆̈́͝î͓̭͎̞͉͖ͪ͛ͦ̀̿̓̚s̨̢̳̭̙̫̜͐ͣͭ̔͡ŝ͂̿̚͝҉̳i̴̩ͪ̎͡o̰͙͎̙͎͔̿ͮͮ̎̈́̚͡͞n͓͙ͯͥ̓̽͗͘̕ ̛͍̖̲͓̹̪̪͒̾̉͗ͦͅs̶̢͈͎̭͂̒̒̑ͣ͊͘ĕ̟͖͓̱̪̘̅̅̽̚͞n̶̹̮̭͈̞̈ͤ͜s̳̹̥͕ͮ͌̋ͯ̈́̕į̴̬͈̾̐̔̈́̑ͅt̵̯̻̃̃̈i̩̣͙̝̔͗ͨ̽̍ͬv̀̍̌҉̱̠̲̬̲e̶̷͎ͬ͛͋ͥ̄̅ͯ́ ̮̠̫̙̟̿ͫ̒͗͑̐ͯ̒V̛̱̭̹͚̬͓̜͎̏̍ͫ̀͂̀Į̢ͩ͛͊̓͏̲̮̫̖̪̲̣P̠̻͈̮̰̿ͣͩ̉̎ͧͯ̑͗ ̖̪͍͉̝͚̪͕̉ͨ̓i̳̮̽̔ͨ̒͋͜ň̊ͦ̇͐̍̃͏̢̼̫̖̖̤̠ ͇͚͊ͦͮ͑ͨ̔͛c̰͖̼̼̙͙̬̋͛̊ͮ̔̀r̡ͯͧ̊҉͈̱͖i̸̖̮̓̑ţͤ̌͋̃͊̚҉̭̘̘͖̝͈̟͎̠i̷ͩ̎ͭ͏͔ͅc̷̦̤̖͖̬̤̙ͯͪͧ̐͗̈́ͨ͢a̐̀̿ͨͩ̎͏͔̖̣͉ľ̴͕̦̙͍̟̥̮̉́ ͔͙̀ͫ̒ͦ̎͂̉̂c̭ͮ̓ȍ̶͙̒̽n̨̥̘͖͍͈͎̅͊͌ͧd̡̙̱̘͎͈̹̖̲̄ͪ͠i̗ͪ̑ͯ̀ͥ͒̈̔͘͟t̛̛̮͓̄ͮͫ̓̀ͅį̮͖ͨ̑̈̇ͤ͞ō͉̞̤̙̣̻͢͝ͅn̺̟̍ͧͨ̊͠.̩̫̳̤̌ͭͯͪ̀ͦQuote from: De-Zalgo'dDeactivate reproduction controls. Override: Alphira. Mission sensitive VIP in critical condition.
...but I'm worried applying the same procedure to Emma we did to William could break her mind outright. Better to see if we can't find a less invasive way of doing this.
.̴.̷.̸r̶i̵g̵h̸t̴.̶ ̵Y̶o̸u̵'̷r̸e̷ ̴a̸ ̷m̷a̸c̴h̶i̵n̶e̴.̵̸
̵Q̶u̶e̶r̶y̵:̵ ̶c̸a̷n̴ ̴o̶u̵r̷ ̶b̶l̴o̶o̷d̵ ̶b̸e̷ ̴u̶s̶e̴d̴ ̶t̴o̷ ̷h̶e̵a̴l̶ ̵a̸n̸o̵t̶h̷e̵r̴ ̸w̶i̴t̵h̵o̶u̵t̷ ̴o̸v̷e̸r̶r̶i̴d̶i̶n̵g̷ ̷t̶h̸e̸ ̶s̷u̶b̴j̵e̸c̷t̴ ̴w̶i̵t̵h̸ ̷o̶u̸r̵ ̶o̸w̷n̶ ̷p̸e̸r̸s̷o̷n̷a̸l̸i̷t̷y̷ ̴i̶n̴ ̴t̴h̵e̶ ̷p̶r̴o̶c̸e̷s̶s̶?̵
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 10:29:47 pm
P̷e̷r̴s̶o̴n̶a̷l̵i̷t̸y̷ ̷w̸i̶l̵l̷ ̸b̷e̸ ̶a̷f̶f̸e̶c̶t̸e̴d̵,̶ ̷t̴h̷e̷ ̸c̷h̸a̵n̶c̵e̸ ̴o̸f̸ ̵s̵c̷h̸i̶z̴o̷p̸h̶r̷e̴n̴i̴a̴,̵ ̶s̸o̷c̸i̷o̸p̵a̵t̴h̶y̴,̶ ̸s̵e̵l̵f̵-̶d̸e̸s̶t̸r̵u̴c̷t̵i̴v̷e̸ ̵u̸r̴g̵e̴s̴ ̸a̸n̷d̴ ̷o̸t̸h̸e̴r̷ ̶i̴s̶s̶u̸e̷s̸ ̵i̷s̸ ̶h̴i̵g̷h̸.̴
D̴o̴r̷m̷a̴n̵t̸ ̴p̴e̷r̴s̵o̷n̶a̴l̴i̷t̶i̶e̶s̶ ̸w̷i̷t̸h̵i̶n̵ ̶'̴d̷u̸s̶t̶'̵ ̶m̷a̸y̴ ̴b̴e̵c̵o̶m̴e̷ ̷d̷o̷m̵i̶n̶a̴n̷t̷,̴ ̸r̶e̴s̸u̷l̵t̵i̷n̵g̸ ̷i̴n̶ ̸p̷e̴r̴s̶o̴n̷a̷l̵i̴t̸y̴ ̴f̴r̴a̷c̵t̶u̸r̶i̵n̸g̵ ̸a̶n̷d̶ ̷e̴g̶o̶ ̴d̸a̴m̶a̸g̷e̴.̷
O̷n̸l̶y̷ ̴p̷u̷r̵e̴ ̴'̵d̷u̵s̷t̸'̸ ̸w̷i̷l̷l̸ ̵n̶o̶t̸ ̸a̴f̶f̴e̵c̷t̸ ̶p̷e̷r̷s̴o̷n̴a̵l̸i̷t̶i̷e̸s̸,̴ ̸t̸e̶m̸p̷e̷r̵a̸m̸e̴n̸t̷,̵ ̶o̷r̵ ̴c̷a̷r̶r̴y̵ ̸w̶i̴t̵h̴ ̵i̸t̸ ̴g̶e̵n̵e̵t̴i̸c̶ ̶m̵e̷m̶o̷r̴i̶e̸s̷.̶
F̴u̷r̵t̴h̸e̷r̶ ̸s̶i̶d̶e̵ ̷e̴f̵f̴e̸c̴t̵s̵ ̴i̴n̵c̴l̷u̶d̵e̸:̷ ̵I̵n̵f̸e̶r̸t̸i̵l̸i̵t̸y̴,̷ ̷I̶m̴m̵o̵r̴t̸a̷l̷i̶t̸y̵,̶ ̶a̵f̷o̵r̶e̵m̴e̴n̷t̵i̵o̴n̵e̷d̸ ̴s̴e̵l̷f̶-̸d̴e̴s̵t̸r̸u̷c̵t̴i̴v̴e̷ ̴t̵e̵n̷d̷e̴n̴c̸i̷e̸s̸,̴ ̸a̵d̵r̶e̵n̴a̷l̵i̷n̴e̵ ̶a̸d̴d̷i̷c̵t̶i̴o̸n̸,̶ ̵'̸c̶o̴n̷q̷u̵e̶r̵e̷r̵'̸s̵'̵ ̷a̴u̸r̷a̶,̴ ̶e̷t̵c̴.̶
Only the strong of will and ego can survive it-- some die instantly. Others are driven into worse insanity than us. Some enter a state of catatonia, lost within the dreams of those that came before.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:32:48 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 04, 2020, 10:36:22 pm
With her brain possibly damaged she would not have the will to resist the effects.
And the side effects would destroy what is left of her.
Let Silas do whatever he can.
I am not opposed to this on principle but.. I do not think it will work.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 10:38:55 pm
It does have a chance of ruining her. William had a strong force of will, a strong personality, one centered around hate and war and violence. The 'dust' takes to that with gusto.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:41:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 10:45:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 10:48:19 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:49:10 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 04, 2020, 10:51:44 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 10:54:11 pm
Do the blood transfusion
If it's this or her life, I'll take it. Otherwise... we've got to exhaust our options first. We've got to. The obvious solutions are not acceptable right now.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 10:55:07 pm
William sits on the bed, watching you silently. You have the oddest feeling a similar argument is being played out in his head. Iyal drifts in quietly, through the open door, quiet-- you probably wouldn't have noticed if she wasn't letting you.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 10:57:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 04, 2020, 10:58:47 pm
Deactivate reproduction controls. Override: Alphira. Mission sensitive VIP in critical condition.+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 10:59:44 pm
Do you know, I've considered that trick-- ahh, but that doesn't help now! That doesn't help now...
...
Speak dull. "It could save her. It could kill her. It could drive her mad. Depends on if she's got your will or no-- your ego. If she hasn't..."
...
"I don't know."
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 11:01:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 11:03:01 pm
"I know." William replies, quietly. "You're more experienced in this..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 11:05:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 11:11:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 11:11:32 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 11:16:49 pm
Deactivate reproduction controls. Override: Patches. Mission sensitive VIP in critical condition.+1
I̛̘̦̰̖͎n͢ ҉̖̝̭̪̣f͙̬a̰͙̭̜͈v̘̗̗̖̗̕o̻r͓̗̘̤̫?̘̲ The iciness of the VOID creeps through your limbs, the first cold thing you've felt in a long time. You hesitat, and slump down next to Emma. The world looks...blurry already, and you scrub at your eyes.
I don't think I've ever cried before. You note.
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 11:18:23 pm
...
"If-- if this doesn't work-- will you hate me for it? For all of this?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 11:19:58 pm
I am in favor.
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 11:21:27 pm
I'm sorry.
Post by: ZBridges on April 04, 2020, 11:22:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 04, 2020, 11:23:25 pm
William was the first for me. My father made my siblings.
"Does it matter if I hate you?" William retorts, looking up at you with a spark of anger in his eyes. "Does it matter?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 04, 2020, 11:24:49 pm
“Emma matters”
Post by: Superdorf on April 04, 2020, 11:43:48 pm
This voice abstains.
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 04, 2020, 11:49:55 pm
Do it right and do not regret it, no matter the outcome.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 12:05:31 am
Dark metal corridors filled with corpses, a twisting insect chasing you-- Emma burning you alive-- Doc Mitchell throttling you-- The Holy City burning...
What do you dream of?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 12:11:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 12:24:07 am
The light flickers, and it chases you, down corridor, down hatches, it's long legs clanking on the metal as it gains on you-- you stumble, screaming as your leg is ripped away from you. Something crunches in the dark.
Then something sharp is pressed into your chest, slowly cutting you apart while you sit helplessly.
What do you dream of?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 12:26:50 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 12:33:16 am
Children sitting before a machine as it speaks lies...twisting them into zealots. Doubt is raised-- the other children turn, angry. Watched by SEED, who's metallic shell of gears and ivy split into a happy, bloody grin as the children feed the corpse of their brother to it. Metal and wood teeth crunch down on flesh noisily. A smile twists steel with grinding as the children grow- feeding more and more to the monstrous entity that grows fat and content on the sacrifice.
Of what do you dream?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 12:37:21 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 01:10:58 am
The Endless Emperor.+1
Also, wow. SEED’s more terrifying than originally thought
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 01:44:22 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 05, 2020, 07:30:43 am
+1The Endless Emperor.+1
Also, wow. SEED’s more terrifying than originally thought
This whole thing sounds like a death metal album cover.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 11:04:40 am
You open your eyes, to find you are in the medical bay of the Thornton castle still. You lay tucked in on a soft bed, an intravenous device stuck into your arm still. Immediately, you look to the bed beside you-- only to find it empty.
A numbness settles over you. Replaced all at once, with a fit of rage, pure and bright that starts to burn within your core.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 11:06:19 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 11:13:17 am
”Where is Emma?”
+̸1̴
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 11:52:14 am
A nurse emerges from a back-office as you rise from the bed. You pull out the IV and she hurries to your side as you start towards the door. "Eas-Easy Lady Alphira-- Everything is okay! I'll go get her for you, okay? Just-just sit down."
[19]All the weight falls off your shoulders as you collapse back into bed. The nurse stops the leaking saline, then leaves you alone with only a worried glance given. She leaves the room, returning quite a few minutes later with Emma in tow. Emma- looks different. She's as tall as you, with her long blond hair now bearing the odd blood-red highlight-- but her facial features haven't changed. Her eyes, however, have become an odd mix between her normal green and your bright blue.
Mitch, you note, has also changed in however long you've been out. He comes up to Emma's knee now, a thin puppy packed with sinew. His rust-colored eyes fix on you and never look away, even when Emma hands the leash over to the nurse. The nurse immediately looks panicked and just stands perfectly still.
Emma hesitates, then approaches, jumping into bed to hug you, climbing on to of you to cuddle into your clothing "I-I'm sorry, Pheobe-- for scaring you like that-- for everything. I didn't..." she sighs, pausing, giggling, "I"ll make sure to check that the safety is off next time, I swear."
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 11:58:23 am
yes yes yes
good. I don't want to see what happens when we break the protagonist.
Just... enjoy the moment.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 12:18:57 pm
The nurse abruptly stops moving, flinching away from the canine. She lets go of the leash, and Mitch wanders away to sniff at you.
He gives your hand an affectionate, you think, nip, drawing blood. It laps at it gently until the wound scabs over, and you think you're supposed to pet him now. You do, dragging your fingers through the rough fur that's growing from its head like a mane.
"I'm sorry for not being here with you to wake up. Sitting and doing nothing is super uncomfortable now. William says that's normal?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 12:25:06 pm
"It's fine. It's fine. It doesn't matter now."
...
"You've met Alphira, I take it?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 12:50:37 pm
Emma breathes out a sigh, continuing, "I also now know that you would have outlived me if I stayed just human. You would have had to watch me fade away-- or I would have had to watch you die in battle, right?"
"Now...we are the same, right? For better or worse?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 02:07:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 02:16:06 pm
...
"I've been in a coma again... how much have I missed this time?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 03:27:48 pm
"A lot has happened. I don't even know where to begin." Emma rises, sitting across from you on another of the bed. "William is the head of the family now, as expected. A few of our men broke away, because they thought he was dishonorable in dealing with Father." She rolls her eyes, "But, William and co. mopped that up."
"We've got sixty war machines ready for combat-- at your word." She finishes, then moves on.
"Unfortunately, when you sustained your injuries in an assassination attempt by my late father, Captain Zachary and one of your bodyguards had to sacrifice their lives to save you. Its a tragedy. We sent their remains back to the capital for a hero's burial." Emma grins at you, winking.
"...SEED has been calling for you to return to the capital. The lines are getting worse....estimates say that within another month, the Holy City itself will be sieged. They're drafting everyone available to go and fight. Debt-slaves are being armed. Prophets are saying this is the end times, and cults are forming. Things are getting desperate." Emma grins. "Now's a great time for a coup. The Pontifex has been building up your favor amongst the soldiers-- everyone is a soldier now."
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 03:49:05 pm
"I don't like it... but it's perfect. A story fit to goad this world to a religious frenzy."
---
Rise. "That [radio] we bought at market-- has it found its way to Silas?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 03:50:43 pm
Rise. "That [radio] we bought at market-- has it found its way to Silas?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 03:55:01 pm
[8] "Silas didn't know what it was, if that's what you were asking." Emma replies, shrugging, "I had them draw a schematic up, though?"
"I know what you said it was, but what does it do?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 03:55:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 04:01:54 pm
“We should get going to the defensive lines”
Go to the defensive lines with the war machines
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 04:04:17 pm
“[Radios] are used for long distance communication. People with radios can send messages to each other regardless of distance”+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 04:07:57 pm
“We should get going to the defensive lines”
Go to the defensive lines with the war machines
Yeah, we ain't going to the Defensive Lines just yet. First stop will be the Holy City, so's we can properly take over this army; before that, we have some serious catchup to do in Thornton Villa-- catchup and planning.
These are dire times... I wonder if we can truly achieve victory under these conditions.
I've no idea-- still, we're bound to try.
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 04:10:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 04:17:28 pm
"And what needs to be done?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 04:21:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 04:24:03 pm
Smirk a little. "Not demons, no... [demons.] Empyreals. Our tech can pick up signals if they're powerful enough, I think, in the void between worlds. SEED's trying to hide this planet-- maybe from the Empyreals, maybe from something else. I don't know."+1
"What needs to be done... well. Here, we figure out how to replicate this tech and hook it up to Thornton War-machines. We consult Alphira and work out what other off-world and forbidden tech we can make use of, and what strategies we can employ going forward."
"In the Holy City..."...the first step will be to meet with SEED and request a change in strategy and leadership among senior command. If that is refused, we will then carry out a hard coup."
"Like you said on the flight here: we try the peaceful route first. Avoid taking any more lives than we have to. If that fails... we'll reevaluate."
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 04:29:15 pm
"What needs to be done... well. Here, we figure out how to replicate this tech and hook it up to Thornton War-machines. We consult Alphira and work out what other off-world and forbidden tech we can make use of, and what strategies we can employ going forward."
"In the Holy City..."
...the first step will be to meet with SEED and request a change in strategy and leadership among senior command. If that is refused, we will then carry out a hard coup."
"Like you said on the flight here: we try the peaceful route first. Avoid taking any more lives than we have to. If that fails... we'll reevaluate."
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 04:38:41 pm
Smirk a little. "Not demons, no... [demons.] Empyreals. Our tech can pick up signals if they're powerful enough, I think, in the void between worlds. SEED's trying to hide this planet-- maybe from the Empyreals, maybe from something else. I don't know."+1 as long as the integration of tech can be done fairly quickly. We're almost out of time.
"What needs to be done... well. Here, we figure out how to replicate this tech and hook it up to Thornton War-machines. We consult Alphira and work out what other off-world and forbidden tech we can make use of, and what strategies we can employ going forward."
"In the Holy City..."...the first step will be to meet with SEED and request a change in strategy and leadership among senior command. If that is refused, we will then carry out a hard coup."
"Like you said on the flight here: we try the peaceful route first. Avoid taking any more lives than we have to. If that fails... we'll reevaluate."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 04:41:03 pm
Spoiler: My vote, it was moved to my earlier post so it is more easily found (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 05:09:20 pm
"As for the integration, William intended the helmets to have night vision, and they already have sound dampeners. We could try and get one of the cybernetic techs to rig something up. How would it work though? Should everyone have one, or should just the commanders? I don't think we could produce them in bulk for every soldier after we arm our Warmachines."
"And do we need to bring Warmachines to the Holy City? Asap? William... 'purchased' a cargo-ship. We could use that to lift and drop off soldiers, providing the Plague doesn't have any heavy firepower."
You asked for me?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 05:17:00 pm
"Just the commanders. It isn't necessary for all soldiers. And yes, I do think we should bring the Warmachines to the Holy City in case a hard coup is necessary."
It's your time to shine. Per our agreement, we will kill the generals, either now or later. Can you show us how to turn our strategies into art?
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 05:27:26 pm
"Just the commanders. It isn't necessary for all soldiers. And yes, I do think we should bring the Warmachines to the Holy City in case a hard coup is necessary."
It's your time to shine. Per our agreement, we will kill the generals, either now or later. Can you show us how to turn our strategies into art?
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 05:57:39 pm
[15]What's the most vital thing to have during a war?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 05:59:33 pm
Intel?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 06:06:36 pm
So, what is your plan for changing the military of this world, in the first place?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 06:11:15 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 06:30:00 pm
Beyond that, this voice doesn't have much. Large-scale warfare is new to this voice.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 06:47:06 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 06:52:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 07:01:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 07:08:32 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 05, 2020, 07:15:18 pm
Might not last long if they change tactics.
Use of artillery against hard points with us moving in to clean up seems like it would work well now that we know how to fight the king of the dead types.
We should find any more of those egg structures, the [demons] inside them do not fight on the front lines. The egg or the [demon] might be some kind of command and control structures. Moving to push past the lines and hit those structures might call reinforcements and lighten the load on the front lines.
Really we need to save our void energy for the [king of the dead] and fight the other beasts conventionally.
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 07:16:16 pm
In cover, perhaps with other soldiers providing suppressing fire, so that the stronger fighters are free to fire with less danger of getting hit?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 07:26:59 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 07:30:33 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 07:39:44 pm
Still-- if we know where our enemy's to strike next, we can move to be there ahead of time-- if we move swift and often, we can serve to improve the morale of those who fight without us. Is this, then, how sixty soldiers defend a nation?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 07:44:11 pm
An air-deployed mobile task force, to help with the defense of hotspots and do critical strikes is my good advice. But how you wield your toys is on you.
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 07:47:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 08:05:24 pm
...
"Sorry about that... Alphira wanted words. We've the makings of a war plan now."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 08:07:21 pm
Grin. Yeah, you are pretty "awesome" at that. Thanks for being here.why is awesome in quotes? Why are we apologizing?
...
"Sorry about that... Alphira wanted words. We've the makings of a war plan now."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 08:10:49 pm
...I'll let that slide because I respect my elders. Regardless of your intent, you feel like Alphira still took it at sarcasm, but she doesn't seem to mind that much, returning the banter idly.
...
Emma has been playing with Mitch while you were distracted with other things. When you come to, she immediately stops playing, wiping any blood from her hand-- the wounds scab over quickly. "Right. How you dealt with her for this long, I have no idea. She went pretty quiet for me." Emma shrugs, taking up her pen and paper. "Anything you need me to do?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 08:12:57 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 08:15:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 08:18:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 08:24:40 pm
"I don't know how you would set something like that up. Maybe each command post has a radio? Do we know the distance on the radio we have? Or does it just send a signal forever? If you would like, I could try and get some of our scientists and logisticians organizing something, if you don't know."
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 08:33:26 pm
"Each command post should have a radio transmitter and a radio receiver, both of which work through the creation of a large structure called an antenna. The larger the antenna, the greater the effective range of the radio. Ask the researchers to determine the appropriate length of the antennae we will be using."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 08:38:18 pm
Feel free to correct me on this if it's wrong.sounds right, radio waves are longer wavelengths than others, so they can pass through pretty much anything short of black holes
"Each command post should have a radio transmitter and a radio receiver, both of which work through the creation of a large structure called an antenna."
I’m not a radio expert and don’t know why antennae are needed
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 09:02:55 pm
"Anything else we need to handle?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 09:12:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 09:26:58 pm
She slowly rises, scratching Mitch behind the ears before extending a hand out to you, explaining as she does. "We also have the higher scholar tongues, which already work as a cipher, if the need arises."
Then, gently, "When do you want to head back to the Holy City, Pheobe?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 05, 2020, 09:38:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 09:45:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 10:02:08 pm
"I understand." She murmurs, looking back and giving you a weak smile. "Do you...you want me to take the field with you? I might be able to keep up now." Emma offers a giggle and a wink. She leads you down the hall, into the dining room, pulling out a chair that's out of the way for you.
You lift your brow when she promises she'll be back. It doesn't take her long to reappear, a serving girl behind her carrying platters of food for you; stew, bread, wine, baked apples, and a number small, cooked vegetable dishes. Emma doesn't sit, instead, she begins to walk away, waving at you. "We'll catch up later. I'll go get the ball rolling, and have our Warmachines ready to go by tomorrow."
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 10:12:14 pm
Eat.
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 10:13:14 pm
We seriously lucked out with that transfusion. I was all ready to watch us descend into a raging grief-stricken mess and everything.
"Thanks, Emma. I'm glad you're feeling well."
Eat.
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 10:14:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 10:22:39 pm
"Wait." Emma pauses as you approach, looking back with confusion until you sweep her up into a tight embrace and a loving kiss. Surprised, at first, she melts into you. She blinks, smiling with clouded eyes. "Thanks Emma. I'm glad you're feeling well."
"Mhmm." Is all she musters, shaking her head clear as she walks away. Mitch, stays close by-- hopping up on a chair to start eating a roasted rabbit from the tray. You decide to join him-- he growls when you approach your food, however.
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 10:26:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 10:31:39 pm
...hmmm
...
idea.
"Hey Mitch, who's a good boy?" Attempt to pet him using slow movements.
+1
See if we can't use our will to placate the varmint while we're at it. Charming animals can't be all that different from charming people, right?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 10:39:10 pm
[3 vs 6] [16] He bites you hard on the hand. But your will swells forth, as you stare into his eyes. His teeth let go, and he slinks back, pacing away. The wound was deep, three rings of bleeding bite marks. You're pretty sure he wasn't trying to bite too hard, or you'd be missing a hand.
[20] You heal as you eat, Mitch keeping a distance away from you, prowling on the edge of your willpower.
[+5 respect]
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 10:43:10 pm
Let's try going for a run with Mitch next and see if he can keep up.
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 10:51:34 pm
Oh.
You named this thing after the doctor.
Why do I only now realize this? :P
Let's try going for a run with Mitch next and see if he can keep up.
+1
Once we're through excercising the dog, what'll be the most productive use of our time?
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 10:54:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 10:54:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 11:10:19 pm
[16] You take hold of his leash, deciding to take a jog through the town. You stop by to your room, changing out of the hospital tunic and pants and into a SEED uniform. Mitch follows, and you take hold of his leash. You body doesn't seem to have declined much. And with a little application of your willpower, you push through-- only to stop within one of the plazas of the town around the villa, as Mitch has to stop to catch its breath.
[19] It pants heavily, and you've only mildly exerted yourself. "Can't keep up, huh?" You ask, defiantly, and it growls, straining at the leash again. You and Mitch run through the streets, doing a few laps of the castle until Mitch plops down, exhausted, panting hard, spit gathering at the edges of its mouth. You're breathing heavily as well, but are not exhausted, the soreness in your muscles and legs are gone, replaced by a comforting ache of exertion. You plop down next to Mitch, and sit there together, catching your breath.
You pet him, and he doesn't have the strength to nip at you, laying back and taking it with panting stoicism.
[+3 respect]
You return to Emma's room, dropping off Mitch with a massive bowl of water. It sloppily drinks it all, and you're glad for the stone beneath your feet. When he's finished, he plops down in front of the fireplace and sleeps. You strip down, and step into the shower to clean yourself off. The warm water washes away grime and dirt and sweat, and you try to turn the heat all the way up-- only to find it has some sort of limiter.
Maybe I can break it...or asks the maids to draw up a bath of boiling water... You muse, soaping yourself up with the various soaps Emma or the household servants have gathered in the month you've been resting. You dry your hair as you step out of the shower. You're halfway dressed when someone knocks on the door. "Come in." You call as you tug on your shirt and strap it tightly to yourself.
Iyal steps in, dropping to her knees at the doorway at the sight of you. "[Fire-blooms-Flowers]," She addresses you, you're confused-- until you see the barker-bone handle of the knife sticking out from your equipment on one of the cabinets, "I'm glad to see you awake. I was told we would be leaving soon."
Iyal has changed as well. Gone is the skinniness of the steelworks, replaced by lithe muscle. Her clothing is a better fit, and is all Thornton reds and blacks, a military uniform reminiscent to SEED's own, with a little more pomp. She shaved her head at one point, and stubby brown hair is coming in, with no trace of the red of malnutrition. She switches to SEED dialect, "I wish for orders. Emma doesn't s-seem to know what to-to do with me."
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 11:16:39 pm
"I will have several tasks for you when we arrive at the Holy City. Coups are rarely clean. You must be positioned to assassinate any lower officers that disagree. I will have the Pontifex provide you with a list of officers that are likely to rebel."
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 11:28:37 pm
Also also, our little
"I will have several tasks for you when we arrive at the Holy City. Coups are rarely clean. You must be positioned to assassinate any lower officers that disagree. I will have the Pontifex provide you with a list of officers that are likely to rebel."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 11:31:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 11:34:48 pm
"Let Emma know what you need, and she will provide it to you. Don't go crazy, but we have plenty of coin to fund you in your efforts."
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 11:36:21 pm
Hmm. I guess I trust her enough.
"Let Emma know what you need, and she will provide it to you. Don't go crazy, but we have plenty of coin to fund you in your efforts."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 05, 2020, 11:41:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 05, 2020, 11:44:00 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 05, 2020, 11:56:54 pm
"Nothing else at the moment, thank you. If you would like some extra coin or any items for your personal comfort, feel free to let us know as well."
And another +1
Eventually, I'd be interested to learn a little more from Iyal about her people. We know next to nothing about them, they've (presumably) little love for SEED, and they're competent-- I'm thinking there's a powerful force to be had here, if we can figure out how to tap it. Might as well start with the one that's decided to swear herself to our service.
(Am I letting Leto Atreides influence my thinking here overmuch? Probably. :)) )
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 12:09:33 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 12:09:52 am
Iyal glances at you with a very confused look "I've been more comfortabl-ble now than I h-have in my entire life. I need no more." You don't dismiss her yet, and she doesn't seem uncomfortable waiting, knees on the rug, head bowed, hands folded patiently on her lap.
Do we take the time to get to know her?
[20] 'Tribal' or clan types like these gave many recruits to the Empyreal. They're well-acquainted with hardship, strife, and death. Many of our 'line' are similar to her.
Mitch is sleeping comfortably by the fire, in a pile of rags. You strap your weapon belt on, feeling the comforting weight settle itself about your waist. You kneel, affixing the ankle sheath to your leg. You browse through the wardrobe-- and find that Emma has bought many, many more outfits. And, you note with a grin, most of the shirts should fit you as well.
You pull on one of her jackets, a crimson one with some weight to the fabric-- and you're at a loss for what to do now. Iyal sits quietly beside the door.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 12:21:36 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 12:43:36 am
I'm realizing now... forgot to mention to Emma about the need for finding a way to get better intel.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:40:09 am
"Iyal, can you tell me a little about yourself? I don't think we've had the chance to talk much."+1
I'm realizing now... forgot to mention to Emma about the need for finding a way to get better intel.
Post by: King Zultan on April 06, 2020, 09:26:16 am
+1"Iyal, can you tell me a little about yourself? I don't think we've had the chance to talk much."+1
I'm realizing now... forgot to mention to Emma about the need for finding a way to get better intel.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 10:39:46 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 10:48:50 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 11:45:16 am
"The elders and those who wished to, taught the children and cooked lunch. We would all eat together. Then, more work. Then dinner. Then sleep. Now and then we would move, either to a new crater or an ungrazed land."
"We occasionally went to war, or had to fight off Barkers or Beetles."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 04:06:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 04:08:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 04:54:55 pm
You shift uncomfortably, watching Iyal's bowed head.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:03:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 05:10:49 pm
"That'll be all. It's... nice to see you in good health, Iyal."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:14:58 pm
"...None. That was thoughtless of me, I apologize."this is better, scratching out my thing now
"That'll be all. It's... nice to see you in good health, Iyal."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 05:23:36 pm
Iyal rises to her feet, stepping out the door and leaving you alone. You feel like that could have gone better. You shrug to yourself in answer, and contemplate what to do next.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 05:34:37 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:41:25 pm
Use the bug oil for guidance.+1, I laughed, which means I’m happy at the suggestion. Let our brain be liberated from reality for a time
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 05:42:12 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 05:43:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:44:31 pm
I think Emma maybe wanted to try that with us?oh right, maybe now isn’t the best time
Offer to assist in radio construction
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 05:47:21 pm
Offer to assist in radio construction
+1
See if we can't use whatever ancestral memories we've got handy to help the process along.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 05:52:52 pm
Emma's busy as a bee right now, is the trouble. Seems a bad time.+1, not a double vote because of the amendment, right?Offer to assist in radio construction
+1
See if we can't use whatever ancestral memories we've got handy to help the process along.
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 06:18:51 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 06:21:45 pm
One way to get intel would be to use a 'prophetic' drug, which in this game is a real thing, like bug oil. You could think of it like the spice from Dune. It may give us visions that tell us about the plague, the best ways to fight it, and other visions of the future.that, or it could confuse us into thinking we are something else, somewhere else, somewhen else, combinations of these...it is a mixed bag, most likely
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 06:31:24 pm
I just figure we can wait a little bit before we take the stuff. It'll make a nice thing to share, and we should be able to set aside a few hours for it tonight or tomorrow.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 06:49:09 pm
You leave your room, deciding on trying to help with the construction of the radio. You head downstairs, down, down, into the laboratories and workshops of the Thornton Family. You approach one of the doors, wondering if maybe this is where people are working on your radio systems-- only to find it locked. There's a small keypad beside it.
[9] You knock at the door, and no one responds. Your strategic plan has been foiled, it seems, by a locked door. That is, until the keypad gives a beep, and the door clicks open. Silas leans out it, staring at you with tired eyes. "Yes, Lady Alphira?"
"Oh. Hello Silas."
"Hello. I will assume you are not here to exchange greetings. Is there something I can help you with?"
"Do you happen to know where they are working on the [radio] project?"
"Ah- down the hall, to the right. Door twelve. Keycode six-six-one-three-nine-two."
"Thanks Silas." You hesitate, adding on, "For everything. Really."
You think you woke him up- he simply nods to to you and closes the door. You turn in the indicated direction, and key in the code. It slides open-- showing you a spacious workshop with a makeshift assembly line in the middle of it. Crates of supplies sit stationed out, and a number of older men and women are hunched over helmets. Emma is sitting beside a middle-aged, stoop-shouldered man, drinking tea. Her eyes brighten when she sees you. "Ah! Pheobe."
She gestures to the man, "This is MacTire, the leader of this assembly team."
He inclines his head in a bow, "Lady Alphira. It's an honor to meet you."
"I was just about to wrap this up-- we should have all the Thornton helmets complete by tomorrow, as well as a few spares for ourselves. The command station radios being set up will require us to have permission from SEED, but the scientists are sure they can easily upsize the tech. If they aren't, they will be by the time we speak to them again."
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 07:01:10 pm
"Beautiful. Do we know what the range is like on these helmet comms?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 07:09:11 pm
Heh, there is that possibility. Regardless, might as well share the experience!+1
"Beautiful. Do we know what the range is like on these helmet comms?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 07:10:57 pm
MacTire interrupts her, cheerful and happy, "They use a lot of parts that las-guns do! Well, besides the reactors. We've hooked them up to the reactor that the Warmachines carry.."
"They have multiple 'channels', letting us set up teams. Logistics is still working on it, but we've decided that each squad should have their own channel, and that command has a channel that all officers are on." She moves over to a bin, pulling out a Thornton Warmachine Helmet with a red strip down the center-- you notice that it has two antennas soldered in near the ear, and a cord dangling down from the collar.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 07:13:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 07:23:34 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 07:29:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 07:34:55 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 07:37:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 07:44:48 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 08:15:38 pm
"William is organizing a Cutter training session upstairs." Emma offers, taking a sip of her tea. "I was going to organize the distribution and training of the helmets after he finished with that. You might be able to learn something. Or...remember something?" Emma shrugs her shoulder, before giving you a genuine smile.
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 08:25:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 08:34:14 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 08:35:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 08:38:14 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 08:40:58 pm
Ask Emma what can be done to get better intel on the plague. Are there any forbidden technologies that would be helpful?
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 08:42:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 08:52:21 pm
[13] "I...I don't know." Emma shrugs her shoulders, looking confused. "Go and take a look? You could probably fly over. Maybe use a telescope." She frowns, "I don't know what to tell you Pheobe. I think if I could answer that question, the war would already be over."
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 08:54:05 pm
Do unmanned aerial vehicles, used for capturing images of the ground below, exist in the city-state?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 08:59:30 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 09:02:00 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 09:05:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 09:12:12 pm
"...H-how?" Is all Emma can muster, staring at you in surprise and shock. "We barely know how the radios -work-. How...would you control something with it? I mean, the timer is something we could do...but how do you miniaturize a hover craft like that? And...if we did...if they got shot down, the Plague would infect that technology and send thousands of the damn things against us, armed with worse than cameras..."
"Like they did with the hovercrafts, and the Ai-Ai cannons, and the las-guns..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 09:13:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 09:16:11 pm
Emma frowns, "The manpower hours on that would be difficult..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 09:20:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 09:37:54 pm
"I'll get out of your way." (Grin a moment.) "Attend that Cutter session of William's, maybe clear the air with him a bit... our last conversation wasn't exactly the happiest thing."
"Should I be around for the radio briefing?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 09:39:04 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 09:39:46 pm
"...You're right, of course. My mind's running away with me."+1
"I'll get out of your way." (Grin a moment.) "Attend that Cutter session of William's, maybe clear the air with him a bit... our last conversation wasn't exactly the happiest thing."
"Should I be around for the radio briefing?"
We should also actually do the things we are saying we will do
Post by: Superdorf on April 06, 2020, 09:45:28 pm
"You're right, that wouldn't be feasible with the time we have. There must be some other way to obtain more information... I'll think about it."
+1
"For now, I'd best get out of your way." (Grin a moment.) "Attend that Cutter session of William's, maybe clear the air with him a bit... our last conversation wasn't exactly the happiest thing."
"Should I be around for the radio briefing?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 09:56:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 10:19:48 pm
What about a manned high-altitude plane with multiple cameras pointed different ways (each with high magnification)?this could work
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 10:23:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 06, 2020, 10:29:58 pm
Emma dips you a nod, smiling at you. "It's okay. I understand where you're coming from...some of the techs I've seen of [Empyreal] design is...amazing. Our's doesn't come close though; I don't think. What we have here, in this house, is more efficient than most factories. The last time I went to a las-gun workshop, one person assembles a single las-gun, from start to finish, from a pre-made kit that SEED sends. Same thing with Hovercraft--" Emma pauses at your latest idea, but dips a nod.
"...now that could work. Cameras aren't hard to find, or magnify, or to set on a timer. The construction of towers would be difficult...but you could try and press SEED into it. It wouldn't require our scientists to work on it, just a few engineers and a spare hovercraft...I"ll get them started on it if that's what you want."
"Sure. It'll happen right after the lesson, though. Part of the reason why William is doing one-- that, and...well, I'm sure he'll explain what happened during the ... 'dispute.' It was an embarrassment, and showed how little experience our so-called Warmachines had with using Cutters when facing another human."
She stands, leaning forward to give you a parting kiss. You head out the door, pausing to look over the workshop. Each person who assembles is sitting in a line. They do one task, then pass the helmet over to another person. One person solders in a piece, then they pass it over to another, who puts in another section. It eventually reaches the end of the line, where a person attaches a patch of cloth to cover the more sensitive parts of the radio. There is no mechanization, no conveyor belts, nothing more advanced than soldering irons and human hands.
The Cutter Training session is being held in the courtyard-- you can see that by the gathering of the Thornton Warmachines. When sixty of them congregate, its hard to miss. You press through, towards the ring in the center of the courtyard, where William stands, a Thornton Cutter hilt in hand. He smiles when he sees you, cutting himself off, "Hey Phebe."
"So, lets start with how a cutter works, shall we?" William begins, "It works, by sending out condensed hydrogen through a very thin pipe, usually extended by this dial." He adjusts the dial, and a razor-thin pipe does indeed rise and fall out of the hilt. "Now, having a huge flaming sword is really cool, right? Yeah-- but you -don't- need it for people." He dials the cutter down until the razor-thin sits a foot out from the hilt. "This can kill you much more easily than the full five feet this bastard goes out to."
"We use the biggest setting for bugs since we want to stay as far away as possible-- examine your range! Adjust accordingly. Now, the other stupidest thing I've seen is someone trying to block a Cutter Blade with another cutter blade. These things are built to withstand the heat of a single cutter-- not two of them. Which is hotter? [3000* celsuis] or [6000* celsuis]? Which one is bigger. Use those heads of your's-- we let you keep them for a reason!" He flicks the blade on, and gestures you out of the crowd. You lift your weapon in what you think is a good defensive position. "Now, watch what happens--" His cutter sings through the air, hissing as it goes-- and impacts your's with a weak thump. The fire between them grows hotter and hotter.
Then, William's cutter begins to melt, the pipe that already glows a bright cherry red suddenly warping, then bending. The top half of his weapon curls, starting to spit fire awkwardly. He switches it off and pulls the magazine out. "...usually they both start doing that, but let's move on."
He explains safety protections-- keeping it clean, checking for warping, replacing the piping if there's cracks or damage. If the 'blade' does warp, remove the power cell to stop it from...exploding. "And no matter how strong you might be-- don't. Touch. The. Pipe. Warmachine hand components can stop a blow-- but it'll start to melt right through after a few seconds. The pipe will bend and warp-- bad things happen. Thomas.."
"So, what's the best option for dealing with a Crusader or some junkie armed with this. Tommy." William asks, barking the name sharply and rounding on a young, male, Warmachine.
"Stay back and pump as many bullets into them as possible, Sir William!"
"Good! You've learned!"
"What do you do if a Bug, barker, or another Warmachine is charging at you?"
"Keep shooting. Use a Cutter if no one else is or if you are the designated melee. You should never, ever, drop your gun and try to have a one on one duel with the opponent."
William nods and steps out of the ring with a final, "Good lads." He comes to stand beside you with a smile on his lips.
Emma emerges from the Villa, followed by laborers carrying modified helmets for all of the Thorntons.
"Right, so, red is for squad commanders only!" She begins-- and then launches into safety, maintenance and how to activate them.
You listen intently, that is, until William speaks to you in a murmur, "Thank you Pheobe. I'm...I'm sorry it came to that. I never wanted Emma to get hurt like that."
Post by: ZBridges on April 06, 2020, 10:39:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 06, 2020, 10:47:33 pm
Quote from: William
"Thank you Pheobe. I'm...I'm sorry it came to that. I never wanted Emma to get hurt like that."“Not a problem. It wasn’t your fault. I never wanted her to get hurt either.”
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 01:28:35 am
Speak soft, wondering. "She's alive. Healthy. Strong. Whole. We were so scared for her that night... but she's whole, she's whole, and eternity lies before her-- and I'm terrified to think that it could have been otherwise."
Smile faint. "You care for her. I've believed that much ever since the Moores. It's why I asked Alphira to save you, when the time came."
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 01:31:38 am
Quoting Emma from the update: "The construction of towers would be difficult...but you could try and press SEED into it."
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 01:38:32 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 01:42:14 am
Still-- if we know where our enemy's to strike next, we can move to be there ahead of time-- if we move swift and often, we can serve to improve the morale of those who fight without us.
By being able to detect the assaults before they hit, we can get enough time to go there and help defend that position if necessary.
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 01:44:30 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 04:40:56 am
"And here it was I thought you saved me because I'm such a charming gentleman." With a lazy shrug, he looks over his Warmachines as they try on helmets and organize their comm channels. "And now we have another powerful tool. Instant communication. It will be useful. Communications is vital to coordination, and now we can communicate without messengers risking lives and taking time."
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 03:00:56 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 03:12:21 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 07, 2020, 03:27:06 pm
They can advance and retreat with the lines without additional construction.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 03:28:43 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 03:47:11 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 03:56:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 04:56:23 pm
The offerings today is a motley collection of bug meat casserole, grainmeal, potatoes, and yogurts. You devour all you can, until you feel full-- and you make a sizable dent in the collection of food. You wash it all down with a delicious wine. Sitting content, you listen in on various conversations, mostly out of boredom. Emma and you make small talk as well, but eventually, the two of you rise to head back to her bedroom, excusing yourself from the table. Emma showers, then you.
The night draws on as snow begins to fall outside her window, you lay in bed, watching the fire crackle in the fireplace while Emma finishes her remaining paperwork. Mitch lays in front of the fire, gnawing on a bone.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 05:08:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 05:19:40 pm
"Part of me wonders though, there is so much out there...beyond the void. Worlds and wonders untold. I would be lying if I said I didn't want to see what else was out there."
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 05:25:21 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 06:34:06 pm
"Sure, screw it. Why don't we head up to the tower and give it a try? It's not like the cold is going to bother us." Emma suggests, glancing over to you then back to the bottles.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 06:41:45 pm
Get the bug oil and head to the tower so we may both try it
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 06:42:21 pm
“Ok”+1
Get the bug oil and head to the tower so we may both try it
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 07:23:09 pm
"I don't think anything is happening." Emma opines, after a moment, her hand curling in yours. You nod in agreement, staring up into the dark, cloudy sky.
The clouds slowly drift away, and you with them. The night sky opens up, and you take in the pinpricks of light shining through the void, the curling arms of the galaxy. One on side, those lights in the sky glow brightly-- on the other lies only darkness, an indomitable void bereft of brightness.
There you sit, balanced like a knife.
Sensation fades as the void opens itself to you. It calls to you, and it beckons, the infinite expanse made finite. It stirs something in your bones, and you stare into the depths of probability. You are the fulcrum, and this world, this galaxy, it twists around you.
You reach towards the dancing stars and the eternal darkness. You plant your feet on the stone and step towards the edge of the yawning abyss below the tower. Emma calls to you, her voice hazy and swimming.
Do you f̸̨̹͙͓̗̟̐̿̓ͣ̅͂̂͛ȃ̪̖̳́̈́́ͭ̀͒̕͟l̠͎͕̪͍͎̜͓ͤͩ̃̇̏ͤ̚ḷ̗̫̳̼̱̺̞͎ͥͪͭͧ?̴̫͖̉͌̉̑͐̎͗ͯ̐̀͜?
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 07:24:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 07:26:43 pm
Uh, no. Let's not break ourself the night before we march for war.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 07:33:47 pm
[20] Jump.
[1]Ĵ̧̨̺͈͖ͪủ̟̭͓ͬ̐̀̈́͠m̅̿ͤ̑ͭ̀͏̳̱̪̖̲͡p̸͓͉̯͋
[1101001---9991201] J͇̳̟̹͙̤͚̼ͭǔ̧̱͇̫͉͝m̼̹̘̘̟̤̍̿̆̑̀́̕͡ṕ̴͆͒͌̊҉̻̲͓͚
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 07:36:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 07:39:49 pm
Here's hoping we can fly.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 07:51:59 pm
A scared girl, stitched together from all different flesh, huddles against her rock, the only fixed point in a sea of oblivion. Black energy eddies and drifts around you, waves of future twisting themselves into vicious currents, which tug and pull at the patchwork girl. You are with her, but you yourself drift upon these tides that spiral out of the single seconds. The cosmos grow faint, overwhelmed, consumed in gray.
Your previous fear has infected her, you note, detached from emotion now, and is reaching a fever pitch as she sobs and struggles to maintain a grip upon a rock crusted with frost.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 07:55:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 07:56:47 pm
There is more to the universe than this single rock. Dive in and let the gentle currents carry you away.should we really leave now? When we just agreed to help do battle?
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 07:57:21 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 07:58:51 pm
We're not going anywhere, these are all hallucinations.fair,
There is more to the universe than this single rock. Dive in and let the gentle currents carry you away.+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 08:11:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 08:34:41 pm
[20][20] Emma screams again behind you as the ground rises to meet you-- and you're afraid. Your back aches painfully- it burns, and your senses do nothing to get rid of the pain, but you don't shut your eyes. Your willpower coils around you like a snake as pieces of yourself drift away from you. Just as you're about to hit the ground, your willpower rips through you.
Heat. Warmth. Comfort.
You turn your downward momentum into upward momentum as fire blooms from your back in your peripheral vision. It spreads forth into the night with a blinding flash. You nearly clip the castle wall, but instead only leave only a faint trail of sparks.
The fear fades as comfort fills you, buoying you up into the cold skies. Hovering, you find, is a little challenging to do in your intoxicated state, having to pump more energy into your wings of blue fire. So instead, you soar over the mountainous landscape, mimicking the birds of prey you saw in the air when you were younger. As you drift over the fields, restlessly, the world changes beneath you-- shifting back into the dark void.
Then, fire blooms across it, flashing at one another. Suns grow, competing for hydrogen. Plants bloom, competing for sunlight. And finally, across the plains march machines of war--
Arrow and sling shot twist into lead, then into the bright glow of las-fire. Stones turn into mortar shot, and finally into nuclear armageddon. But across the wreckage, the war still wages. However, you are not alone, not anymore. Six, seven-winged entities of pure, white-hot fire emerge, following behind you, six wings sprouting from their backs, with a seventh rising from the middle, curling down and behind.
Your skin peels away into dust, into ash, until you're consumed by the fire, becoming nothing more than pure willpower. You and your brethren rain fire down upon the battlefield, great blasts of thermo-nuclear energies ripped from the very water in the air. Below and behind march great soldiers in gleaming gold and black, twisting the earth into savage spikes, impromptu barricades or massive armor that destroys tanks and men alike.
From their ranks emerge creatures of darkness with sharp barbed wires, and spears emerging to slash and impale.
Others come too, a multitude of living weapons made from willpower alone. And at the center of it, leading these weapons from the front is a massive eddy of willpower that hurts you to look at, even in memory, and pure, inky blackness. A pale figure stands within, a man or a woman, its androgynous features twisted not into hate, not into fear or loathing.
But one of remorse. Of sadness. Of pity.
The creeping heat of morning awakens you, fighting back against the snow and cold that covers the ground. You look down from your perch on a patch of green on the side of the mountain, to the Thornton villa in the distance. You swiftly realize that you are still naked- you reach back, touching between your shoulders to find a healing scar. Beneath you is a Thornton village, tucked into a valley.
The smell of freshly baked bread rises from the village, and your stomach protests.
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 08:42:41 pm
We could always fly!
...still, we'd better get back and fast.
In order of priority:
- clothing
- directions back to Villa
- maybe food.
Obtain.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 08:47:09 pm
Living weapons made from willpower alone. How could that be possible?
Ahhaha-- we can fly+1
We could always fly!
...still, we'd better get back and fast.
In order of priority:
- clothing
- directions back to Villa
- maybe food.
Obtain.
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 08:51:35 pm
Interesting. We saw two lines there, fire and silicon. What were the creatures of darkness, though? They were helping the Empyreals...
Remember this thing?
Spoiler: The Twisted Wire (click to show/hide)
Maybe it's got control over iron or something, I dunno. Point is, there's precedent.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 08:53:22 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 08:55:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 08:57:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 08:58:26 pm
Living weapons made from willpower alone. How could that be possible?
I've come to suspect that our "willpower" is... some sort of quasi-biological nano-cloud, encoded with the memetic information of all those who through transfusion gave rise to us. It seems that even if the flesh burns away, the cloud can (sometimes) persist. Whether that cloud-entity could be in any way considered the same person as whoever produced it, I dunno.
('course, I may be horribly off the mark here. Is a guess.)
So, did we see the past?
Seems like. Was awfully specific, to be a vision of what is to come.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 08:59:57 pm
Interesting. We saw two lines there, fire and silicon. What were the creatures of darkness, though? They were helping the Empyreals...+1
Living weapons made from willpower alone. How could that be possible?Ahhaha-- we can fly+1
We could always fly!
...still, we'd better get back and fast.
In order of priority:
- clothing
- directions back to Villa
- maybe food.
Obtain.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 09:07:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 09:13:43 pm
Q̴u̷e̸r̷y̷:̷ ̵c̷a̶n̷ ̵p̷u̸r̴e̸ ̸d̶u̴s̵t̶ ̶m̷i̷t̷i̵g̴a̵t̶e̶ ̶o̵r̴ ̸r̶e̸m̵o̶v̸e̷ ̶o̸u̶t̴r̴i̵g̵h̵t̵ ̵t̷h̶e̸ ̶n̷e̵g̶a̷t̸i̴v̴e̸ ̸s̶i̵d̸e̴-̵e̵f̸f̵e̶c̴t̶s̷ ̴o̷f̸ ̴imp̸u̴r̴e̴ ̵d̴u̴s̷t̵?̷
No. It just adds to our power.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 09:16:06 pm
[6] With giddiness from the knowledge, figuring the best way down is to fly, you take a step off the mountain-- and try to sprout your wings again-- and tumble down, slaved once more to gravity, coming to rest on sharp gravel. You're back on your feet again, however, with only minor aches and lacerations to show for it.
[11] Your wings once again sprout from your back-- and you take the time to examine them the best you can. They look, at the moment, to just be pure fire, ebbing and flowing with the currents of your willpower. You notice black dust emerging from your back, tipping them. But with a slight tweak to the arithmetic, they turn into angelic wings of multi-hued fire feathers. Then into crooked, boney things. Another set turns into gossamer strands of a multi-hued insectoid nature, like the beetles from your 'childhood' in the Academy. You let them turn back into fire--
And you feel...odd. Less real, less whole.
F̧͓͔̗̠l̤̼͉̰̳͝e̻̘s̘̗͍h̖̤͉̰̦͍̤͜ ͍̜̼̯̳̥͢c̵̱̻̪oh̦̠͍̖̱̝̪e͇̖̳͉s̛̤͓̦̦͔̪̝i̱͈o͏͈̙̞̱n̼͝:̡̥̭ ̣̦͍̱̰̫̦90͖͖͈̗͈͖͝%̯͇͡
That's ominous.
Regardless, you drift down the mountainside, feeling free once more-- and alight in the village plaza. A squad of Thornton Warmachines, fully clad in their clanking armor, face you. You think they're staring as you cancel the arithmetic that burns the wings of your back-- and you notice the 'dust' at the tips evaporates away.
"L-lady...Alphira." The one in the front stutters, and you can tell she's probably deeply surprised by the turn of events.
"Oh come now, it's nothing you haven't seen before." You tease, confidently.
"...yes, and no." She gestures, and a group of older women hurries to bring you a shiny robe of crimson, which you gratefully accept.
"Co-could you uh, feed me, before I head to the Villa?"
The lead Warmachine gestures you into a house with a larger door than the rest, and you duck inside, out of the way of gawking civilians. A young man is manning a machine that produces orange hydrogen fire, cooking a pot of porridge atop it, and looks confused when the two of you enter. "I-I wasn't expecting company!"
They cloth you in simple garments of home-spun wool, and it's scratchy, but hides your nudity. You eat a few good bowls of grain-meal with the female Warmachine, and, you come to find out, her husband. A child emerges sleepily, sitting at the table and eating a bowl, disinterested in you. "We saw a light in the sky, last night, flying in circles-- was that you?"
You wince, and offer a weak grin. Instead of answering, you instead ask for directions.
"Yeah, just follow the path out of town, towards the east. It leads back to the Villa-- but you're more than welcome to accompany us there. We're heading there for the muster."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 09:21:30 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 09:27:50 pm
H-how...wow. Spot on.
Hooray!
We'd have hemmed and hawed about that awhile longer yet, y'know. You didn't have to tell us just yet. ;)
E̵x̸p̵l̷a̶i̵n̸ ̶t̷o̵ ̸m̵e̶ ̷t̸h̵i̴s̵.̴.̸.̸ ̸̦̹̈́f̸̭̭͐l̶͕͘e̷̠͛s̶̗͋̐h̴͔̘͗̄ ̷̺̬̄c̸̖̪͑o̶͍͌h̷͇͛̋e̷̹͓̿s̵͙̤͐̚ȋ̶̲̬o̷̳̍ń̴͎͝.̸͕̮̾͒
Smile. "That would be lovely, thank you."
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 09:28:23 pm
+1H-how...wow. Spot on.
Hooray!
We'd have hemmed and hawed about that awhile longer yet, y'know. You didn't have to tell us just yet. ;)
E̵x̸p̵l̷a̶i̵n̸ ̶t̷o̵ ̸m̵e̶ ̷t̸h̵i̴s̵.̴.̸.̸ ̸̦̹̈́f̸̭̭͐l̶͕͘e̷̠͛s̶̗͋̐h̴͔̘͗̄ ̷̺̬̄c̸̖̪͑o̶͍͌h̷͇͛̋e̷̹͓̿s̵͙̤͐̚ȋ̶̲̬o̷̳̍ń̴͎͝.̸͕̮̾͒
Smile. "That would be lovely, thank you."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 09:35:02 pm
+1+1H-how...wow. Spot on.
Hooray!
We'd have hemmed and hawed about that awhile longer yet, y'know. You didn't have to tell us just yet. ;)
E̵x̸p̵l̷a̶i̵n̸ ̶t̷o̵ ̸m̵e̶ ̷t̸h̵i̴s̵.̴.̸.̸ ̸̦̹̈́f̸̭̭͐l̶͕͘e̷̠͛s̶̗͋̐h̴͔̘͗̄ ̷̺̬̄c̸̖̪͑o̶͍͌h̷͇͛̋e̷̹͓̿s̵͙̤͐̚ȋ̶̲̬o̷̳̍ń̴͎͝.̸͕̮̾͒
Smile. "That would be lovely, thank you."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 09:39:24 pm
Flesh cohesion is how tied to the material you are. It is reduced by shaping your body with the dust, or splitting the dust away to use as a reference point. Too little and you begin to break apart as it overwhelms your body. You begin to turn, in our case, into something that serves only your primary directives:
S̜͈̣͍̖͞eŕ̳v̱͓̹̱e̥̠̦̖ ͍͡H̠̱̟͎̩͞um̭̬̤a͈͘n̼̪̘̙̤̗̱i̡͔͉͖̤̞̜t̠͖͎̣y͕̗̬.̰̠̳̹̥
̤̪͖̭͝D͘e̼̳͖s͈̕t̗r̻̖o̰͉̞̤y͇̪.͇̰̻͙̣͖
̸̜̻͔̙P̼͉ro͎̞̺̹̠̝t̴͖̬̫̯̪͚e̶̳̙͇̰͇̞̟ct͉̼̭͙̫ͅ ͏̺͈͙̯̝̜È̜̻̣̯̤m͙̠͚͈̰̦̭m̗̹̺͔̝̯̰a̴̟̻̙͚̜͇ ̮͈͔͎̪̤͎T͉͠h̦o͞r҉̼̭n̡̝ṭ̬͕̳ọ̴̗̯̣̜̩͖n̮̠.̧
S̵̟̣̺͍̥ur̗v̛͕̻̳͕͓ị̛̖̥̘ve̴.̰̮
You and the Warmachine's husband make small talk as she does final checks, the child almost falling asleep in their bowl of porridge before their father gives them a gentle whack on the hand with a wooden spoon. The boy grumbles. "Stay awake! We still have work to do after your mother leaves!"
You smile at the scene of domestic disharmony and extricate yourself as the Warmachine, who's helmet, you note, bears a red stripe, comes in to say goodbye to her family.
Then you're marching at her side, out of the city. The Warmachines peel their helmets off to banter and joke with one another, hiding the nerves they must feel on their way to war. The commander does not speak much, giving you a glance every now and then.
"So. You can fly." She finally states, bluntly, "You...really are an [angel], aren't you?" The Warmachines go silent as they watch you closely for your answer. "And...that means Emma and William...are also [angels] now, too?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 09:42:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 09:44:32 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 09:46:19 pm
"The idea of angels and demons is a lie from SEED. We are called Empyreals, and we are beings from other worlds."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 09:54:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 09:57:31 pm
At your current regeneration rate: Five percent per forty-eight hour period.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 10:00:27 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 10:03:00 pm
Excellent, thank you.
Send out a small portion of our dust/will and try to make it coalesce into a tiny creature, an extension of our intent.
Let's... not further damage the cohesion of our flesh the day we march for war? We'll need strength to spare for wielding our wings later, after all.
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 10:07:43 pm
I did say a tiny creature, so as to use as little dust as possible.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 10:20:47 pm
The gate draws near, and you wait as the Warmachines are verified and cross-checked. "You're late." The watchman states.
"Superior," The Warmachine gestures to you as you pull the robe down a little to reveal your blood red mane-- your hair grew. A lot. It reaches down to the small of your back now. "She required assistance."
"Acceptable." The gates open to let you through. The Warmachines wait in the plaza while you approach the Villa-- you're held up at the gate-- and Emma barrels into you for a tight hug.
"That-- that was amazing. Can I do that? I tried but I..uh, just broke my leg."
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 10:45:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 11:00:16 pm
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 11:03:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 07, 2020, 11:06:42 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 07, 2020, 11:30:03 pm
Excellent.
What are you, anyway? You've been so helpful, and I've never really thought to ask...
"Nah-- it's just good to be back." Smile; then, apologetic: "I expected weird dreams-- I didn't realize I'd fly off on you like that! I ah, didn't expect I'd be flying in first place..."
"...anyway. I'll go grab my things."
Get dressed and head for the hovercraft
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 07, 2020, 11:38:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 07, 2020, 11:55:29 pm
Your uniform and weapons are neatly folded on the bed, and you pull them on, leaving the other clothes with a note on where to return them. It feels good to be in clothes that actually fit. You tighten the straps and adjust the lacings of your boot, eyes measuring the precise [millimeters] required to be in compliance with Scholar standards.
Mitch is already with Emma at the gate, so with one final look around the room, you leave the Thornton Villa.
The cargo ship hovers above a flat clearing in the hills, and the Thorntons pile on to the platform that descends from its belly- it's lifted away slowly, and another is dropped to gather more Warmachines, with one final one descending for the commanders beneath the kicking wind of the cargo ship. You notice, circling protectively above the cargo ship is a set of small, attack hover-craft. You're lifted up into the bowels of the dark ship along with war material; when you're finally underway William approaches you. The Officers of the Warmachines are nearby as well. Emma sits on a crate, listening in while teasing Mitch with her foot.
"So what's our plan here, Phebe? We dropping in on SEED cold or hot? We got three hours to plan how we're doing this."
"And do you want to land at a Smuggler's Pad, or in the Crusader Section?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 12:02:33 am
"We will then ask SEED for permission to reform the command structure of the military. Regardless of what SEED says, we will then convene the generals, once Iyal is ready, and kill any who refuse. At that meeting, I'd like you and your men to be present in case of hostilities."
"Are there problems with this plan?"
"What are the pros and cons of the different landing pads? My inclination is to use the Smuggler's Pad, assuming it's covert, to prevent loyalists from seizing the ship in the case of a hard coup."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 01:04:56 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 01:15:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 08, 2020, 12:51:38 pm
"Since we're carrying forbidden technology, I think we should use the Smuggler's Pad, but let me know if you disagree."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 08, 2020, 02:04:56 pm
We've two routes we could go with this. We could slink in by way of the Smuggler's Pad, take with us just a couple low-profile compatriots-- Emma and William, perhaps, or a couple Warmachines with human-looking limbs-- and we meet with the Pontifex. Plan our grand return quietly, then call in our primary forces and begin in earnest. We still make a grand entrance, eventually (we'll have to, if we're to sway the people), but we back that entrance up with a bit of preliminary skullduggery.
Alternatively... we enter this town like we own it. We arrive through the Crusader Section, wings ablaze and Warmachines at our side; we deliver words of fire unto the populace, an inspiration beyond the wildest imaginings of SEED. Legitimacy. Prophecy. A force untouchable by the machinations of man. A story fit to twist a nation to our will.
Both routes have their perks.
In the interest of keeping things moving, I'll put my vote to the Smuggler's Pad, and a relatively quiet meet-up before we make our grand showing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 07:41:21 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 07:49:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 08, 2020, 07:52:20 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 08, 2020, 08:44:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 08:48:01 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 08:55:04 pm
"None. I'll go let the pilots know." William walks away, towards the cockpit.
"I have an issue-- if there's more than one, being-being spread out like that will decrease my efficiency. One at a time would be preferable." Iyal opines, shifting forward to voice her opinion, "Regardless of how many people I hire, I would like to concentrate all that firepower on one person at a time. " In her own language, she quotes, "Many barkers bite harder."
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 08:58:31 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 08, 2020, 09:02:52 pm
"That seems fair. We can give you a list of targets from highest priority to lowest priority."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 09:20:59 pm
You spend the downtime making small-talk with Emma and playing with Mitch. William is inspecting his soldiers in the other cargo container, and technicians scurry around to adjust various reactors. Weapons are checked, more out of habit than necessity. Iyal comes, and Emma hands over a large wad of bills from her breast-pocket. You watch the Outlander after that, as she checks several las-rifles in easy-carry black cases, as well as a variety of grenades and explosive devices.
She -is- very well trained.
It isn't long before the ship begins to land, the three hours passing uneventfully. And you emerge into the suburbs of the Holy City. William speaks with a shifty shipmaster, bills exchanging hands, as the vehicle is stamped into registration. The Warmachines begin to unload into a space below the ship. You depart from the same area, stepping into the city. Emma and an unmodified Thornton accompany you, while William takes care of organizing the Warmachines.
And by that, you mean he leans on a post, metallic arms crossed over his chest while he watches them work.
You walk through the suburbs, past beggars, soot-stained laborers, and gang members. No one bothers you. You cross into the Outer City. From there, its a ride on one of those slow-moving hovercraft to the walls of the Inner City-- where a young Guardian challenges you.
Emma presents her credentials, and the Guardian goes wide-eyed, bowing at the hips to you while apologizing profusely. It isn't that much further to the Grand Cathedral Plaza. Guardians positioned at the entrance to the Cathedral await you, and one breaks away to request an audience with the Pontifex for you. It's a quiet, tense few minutes until you're allowed entry into the Cathedral.
The architecture is much the same as it was before you left, only emptier. Guards stand at intervals, and the Pontifex sits upon the altar of SEED, a mask of a smile on his lips. He gestures you into his office and shuts the door behind you. "What can I do for Sister Alphira today, hmm?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 09:26:59 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 09:32:55 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 09:37:38 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 08, 2020, 09:40:34 pm
"I was perhaps a bit... overzealous in describing to him our intent to retire SEED. He reacted poorly and then attempted to kill me. In the ensuing struggle, he was dealt a grievous wound. I deeply regret the incident, as the captain was otherwise an exemplary guard."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 09:48:34 pm
"Because of your action I've lost control of your personal guard-- one of his officers of uncertain intentions took over instead of the sure bet I've been grooming." The Pontifex breathes out a sigh, shaking his head. "Please, continue. What do you need from me to deal with the generals?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 09:53:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 08, 2020, 10:05:10 pm
"I need a list of officers within the Holy City, from highest priority targets to lowest priority targets, that would be likely to rebel when a change in leadership and strategy is enacted. These individuals will be assassinated. I also need your approval to use some forbidden technology, which I believe is required in order to win the war."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 10:11:33 pm
"As for the forbidden technology-- SEED handles that itself. There's a list that's sent out to every Guardian post, and it will take SEED's holy edict to change it." He sets his wrists together, miming being tied. "So, unfortunately, I cannot help with that."
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 10:13:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 08, 2020, 11:19:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 11:32:17 pm
You have a sign, filling Emma in as you walk out of the cathedral. The Thornton remains behind, to wait for the list. The two of you head towards the Holy Citadel of SEED, through a field of statuary-- of the various Pontifexes throughout history. SEED is very forward-thinking, as there are many empty plinths. You hesitate near the plinth for the current Pontifex, his copper statue adorned in vestments of office. A debt slave scrubs at the bottom of it, shivering in the cold winds that sweep through the city.
How do you plan to get your meeting with SEED? Burst in through the door or proper channels? Or perhaps another option?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 11:36:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 08, 2020, 11:39:26 pm
Give the debt slave 5 credits. My vote is to attempt to go through the proper channels first.
+1
"Something towards what you owe."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 08, 2020, 11:45:22 pm
"He still has to finish his job, but hey, you've made a dent in his life-debt. That probably took five years off." Emma offers you with a smile, moving closer to huddle up with you against the cold.
"How long will it take me to get an audience with SEED if I go through the proper channels?" You ask, looking at the citadel framed by the noon-day sun.
Emma shrugs, "A week, if SEED doesn't want to be difficult."
Post by: ZBridges on April 08, 2020, 11:46:22 pm
"I don't think we have that kind of time. What are our other options?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 12:07:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 12:10:29 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 12:20:58 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 12:22:48 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 12:47:09 am
They say nothing as they open it for you and Emma, and the two of you make for your room. The armor is where you left it, beside a folded underlay, and your SMG. You strip down and peel on the underlay-- Emma helps you tie your hair back in a top knot. There's a knock at your door.
"Come in!" A crusader steps in, lowering herself to a knee while removing her helmet. A shock of brown hair falls out, framing a face you would describe as very pretty, were it not for a massive scar curling itself down the entirety of her face, to her chin. It looks like a burn scar, from the way the skin warps around the edges.
[13] "Mother Alphira. I am Sarah Potmend, you're new Guard Captain. It's a pleasure to meet you, ma'am. I--." She hesitates, trailing off into silence, "Its an honor to serve you."
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 12:51:31 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 09, 2020, 02:56:49 am
We should tell her that we are here to break the siege but we need to meet with SEED for an update and to discuss strategies with the generals.
"Thank you, Captain Potmend. It's a pleasure to be working with you, but it's also a tragedy. Zachary was a good man."
"I expect you to serve as well as he did. We will all make sacrifices in this trying time."
Post by: King Zultan on April 09, 2020, 05:13:14 am
"Thank you, Captain Potmend. It's a pleasure to be working with you, but it's also a tragedy. Zachary was a good man. I expect you to serve as well as he did. We will all make sacrifices in this trying time."+1Plus, he was an 18 and you're a 13.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 03:43:41 pm
[12] [Hello Dear Sadil.] Lucille coos, gently, as her needles pierce through your flesh and bone. You begin to feel only slightly hungry, and the armor adjusts itself to you in a dozen minute ways, until it sets upon your underlay just right. You let your helmet hang off your neck after Emma drapes the cloak over you.
Uncomfortable with the backpack being on your back, you question if it can be moved-- [Side mounts enabled].
Well, that works, as you clip it on to your side. The half cloak is still going to be an issue, but you sling your SMG over your front instead, adjusting it to lay across your chest. It's a little uncomfortable, but you can deal with it.
The biggest issue is how the armor will adapt to you growing wings. You wonder if it would let you open a section in the back-- [Adapting]
Your backplate now has a hole it in, approximately the size of the scar. You hope it will work out.
"Mother Alphira. I see that you are...planning to go somewhere. I hope you would not mind the inconvenience of letting us accompany you?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 09, 2020, 03:50:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 03:55:59 pm
“It;s not an inconvenience, Company will help. Of course you can come with”+1, but if things go ugly, this might backfire on us. It's clear that the personal guard is more loyal to SEED than to us.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 09, 2020, 04:01:04 pm
We’re not letting our guard down, plus this way we can keep an eye on them too“It;s not an inconvenience, Company will help. Of course you can come with”+1, but if things go ugly, this might backfire on us. It's clear that the personal guard is more loyal to SEED than to us.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 06:45:40 pm
Emma gives you a significant glance, drifting out the door and shutting it behind her. Sarah fidgets uncomfortably, adjusting the straps of her helmet awkwardly. "I wish to seek absolution for...[sin, burden, lit. weight which halts paradise]."
"You are the...direct conduit to SEED, to creation, to life, to paradise. An [angel]...you...you can offer that, can't you?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 06:58:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 09, 2020, 06:58:43 pm
"I can. Please, tell me what burdens you. I will help you find redemption, but I will not judge you."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 08:15:21 pm
[Angel of Fire Containment Procedures] and [Misconduct by Officer Sarah Potmend by the High Board of Guardians: Investigations] lands at your feet, pulled from her coat in a smooth motion as she rises to her feet. "But I've never killed a subordinate to keep myself safe."
"Do I have your absolution, Mother Alphira?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 08:22:37 pm
Pick up both documents and read them thoroughly, but check the containment procedures for new changes only. "What actions have you taken, and what actions would you take, as penance for your sins?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 09, 2020, 08:44:19 pm
Holy crap. That's pretty awful. How did she get this post? On a positive note, it looks like she has no love for SEED and its homicidal intent. I guess we lucked out.+1
Pick up both documents and read them thoroughly, but check the containment procedures for new changes only. "What actions have you taken, and what actions would you take, as penance for your sins?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 08:45:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 09, 2020, 09:55:21 pm
Quote from: Misconduct by Officer Sarah Potmend by the High Board of Guardians: Investigations
...investigations from Crusader Tribunal determined that, while questionable, Officer Potmend's actions during the Outlander dispute protected her soldiers...
...missing jade worth upwards two hundred credits...
...accusations of bribery from several of arrested...
...Officer John McMont's death was ruled to be the responsibility of The Pole Gang...
She's been cleared of many things, sometimes by a narrow margin of tribunal votes or inconclusive investigations. But the suspicion is still there.
"They shuffled me off to a post where they thought I would die. You've got a reputation. But I do not die easy...and...what can I do for you?" Sarah questions, gently, smiling at you, "Anything. Your absolution means I get my career back one day."
So, Sarah kneels down once more in front of you, closer this time, "So what will my absolution cost, Mother Alphira?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 09, 2020, 10:08:39 pm
"Beyond that, protect me from the Church and its machinations by notifying me of any retributive actions on their part that you become aware of. Defend me always, and follow my orders without concern for those above me, and your sins will be washed away."
"Will you do what must be done to receive absolution?"
Post by: King Zultan on April 10, 2020, 03:25:04 am
"Things are going to change, for the better, and you'll soon have the opportunity to have whatever career you want. For now, talk to your guardsmen and try to sway them to my side. Those that remain obstinately defiant or undecided should be fired for cause and never replaced. I will have further orders for you once this task is complete."+1
"Beyond that, protect me from the Church and its machinations by notifying me of any retributive actions on their part that you become aware of. Defend me always, and follow my orders without concern for those above me, and your sins will be washed away."
"Will you do what must be done to receive absolution?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 08:43:26 am
+1"Things are going to change, for the better, and you'll soon have the opportunity to have whatever career you want. For now, talk to your guardsmen and try to sway them to my side. Those that remain obstinately defiant or undecided should be fired for cause and never replaced. I will have further orders for you once this task is complete."+1
"Beyond that, protect me from the Church and its machinations by notifying me of any retributive actions on their part that you become aware of. Defend me always, and follow my orders without concern for those above me, and your sins will be washed away."
"Will you do what must be done to receive absolution?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 08:46:26 am
Uhh wow. I... I think I liked Zachary better. :oZac is dead now, due to trying to kill us+1"Things are going to change, for the better, and you'll soon have the opportunity to have whatever career you want. For now, talk to your guardsmen and try to sway them to my side. Those that remain obstinately defiant or undecided should be fired for cause and never replaced. I will have further orders for you once this task is complete."+1
"Beyond that, protect me from the Church and its machinations by notifying me of any retributive actions on their part that you become aware of. Defend me always, and follow my orders without concern for those above me, and your sins will be washed away."
"Will you do what must be done to receive absolution?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 08:54:54 am
This lady... more comes off as a crook trying to use us to get ahead in life. Pretty typical for us by now, really.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 09:06:24 am
Yeah, but he was upstanding. A noble zealot, a martyr to his own ideals. I appreciated that!tbf, we are a crook now, too
This lady... more comes off as a crook trying to use us to get ahead in life. Pretty typical for us by now, really.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 09:47:54 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 09:49:11 am
Heh, true that. I... like to think we're doing all the wrong things for all the right reasons. ::)regardless of our intent, we are criminals to the Holy City and SEED, if he figures out what we did
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 12:40:34 pm
Heh, true that. I... like to think we're doing all the wrong things for all the right reasons. ::)Whatever helps Patches sleep at night.
"I will." Sarah smiles, satisfied, rising to her feet to leave after tucking her hair beneath her helmet. "I appreciate the ease of my burden, Mother Alphira."
Emma returns to your side, raising an eyebrow in question. "What was all that about?"
You check your armor, adjusting it subconsciously despite the perfect fit. A twitch of a smile curls your lips as you feel the familiar comfort that pulses through your person.
What next?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 12:43:03 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 12:45:13 pm
[Angel of Fire Containment Procedures] and [Misconduct by Officer Sarah Potmend by the High Board of Guardians: Investigations] lands at your feet, pulled from her coat in a smooth motion as she rises to her feet. "But I've never killed a subordinate to keep myself safe."
"They shuffled me off to a post where they thought I would die. You've got a reputation."
Blackmailer, Ally: Sarah Potmend
Ah-hm. How much does she know, I wonder?
"A question of the faith." (Smile.) "It seems the [angel's] duties are more than merely military."
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 01:02:09 pm
+1. Unfurl our wings, attempting the angelic and feathered look. I think this would help us be more persuasive.[Angel of Fire Containment Procedures] and [Misconduct by Officer Sarah Potmend by the High Board of Guardians: Investigations] lands at your feet, pulled from her coat in a smooth motion as she rises to her feet. "But I've never killed a subordinate to keep myself safe.""They shuffled me off to a post where they thought I would die. You've got a reputation."Blackmailer, Ally: Sarah Potmend
Ah-hm. How much does she know, I wonder?
"A question of the faith." (Smile.) "It seems the [angel's] duties are more than merely military."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 01:15:22 pm
"Playing the part seems hard for you, sometimes."
There's a knock at your door, Sarah's voice muffled behind the metal, "We're ready to go, Mother Alphira."
The Citadel of SEED rises into the afternoon sun, snow drifting from the heavens to gather in its ornate edifice. Emma walks beside you, and after a brief command to the guards, they do the same.
[13] Your wings unfurl with a blast of heat that melts the snow around you. Emma doesn't shy away, instead drawing nearer to your warmth, while Sarah and the guard let you walk further away before they follow you, sweating in the sudden heat. You can feel eyes on you from the surrounding offices. The debt-slave, responsible for cleaning, drops to his knees, head bowing in prayer.
[17] The guards are brave. Some of the best in the City-State praised for their honor, their loyalty, and their zealous devotion to the duty of protecting SEED. But even then, they drop to their knees-- in front of the door, however. They still preserve their charge even in prayer.
"Mother Alphira. You are unexpected." Even as his robe begins to crinkle at the edges, the Citadel Guard is polite and efficient, kneeling before you, "You seek an audience with SEED?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 01:19:33 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 01:20:48 pm
Nod. "With all haste. I've military matters that cannot be delayed."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 01:28:53 pm
There's another large door beside all those smaller ones that lead off into the decontamination and ritual rooms, and you're sure that it leads directly to SEED's chambers.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 01:35:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 01:37:03 pm
Grin; let our wings fade away. "As you see fit."+1. I guess we didn't need the wings after all. Oh well.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 01:42:31 pm
Q̸u̸e̵r̸y̷:̵ is it possible to regenerate the flesh having lost cohesion entirely?
[Query: should it prove necessary, how would I go about killing an entrenched Seedship?]
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 01:44:14 pm
+1 There goes a chunk of flesh cohesion, can we like, get them back into our body? Since they were in there before? So we lose less of our form?Grin; let our wings fade away. "As you see fit."+1. I guess we didn't need the wings after all. Oh well.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 01:57:37 pm
[17][Destruction of main control cores located within the hull. As seedships have a radius of [twenty miles], exact location within the hull is hard to determine. Enough internal damage may cause essential components within the vessel to fail. However, with the population center built around the seedship, it is not recommended.]
Your wings fade, and the Citadel guard pats out a small fire from his robes while Emma giggles at his discomfort. Her clothes look a little singed as well, but she doesn't mind. No doubt the heat no longer effects her. You watch as the 'dust' at the tip of the wings settles to the ground like ash, before evaporating into the air.
You follow along, letting them disinfect and anoint you with oils, finally, after your refusal to remove Lucille, they annoint it as well. The present you with a heavy robe to wear-- but you ignore it.
You stride into the citadel's main room, approaching the block of machinery jutting from the floor.
"[Unscheduled visit. Explain.]" Its voice echoes from the pylon, making your head ache as you struggle to keep up with the translation.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 02:00:12 pm
"[I have come to you to present a new plan that will allow us to win the war and ask for your blessing. I apologize for not being here, but I have been working hard to bring you victory. Will you hear my proposal? It is something that only you can approve.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 02:04:00 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 02:17:15 pm
Let's avoid that. :-X
[Lucile, are there overrides or safeguards I could use to suborn a malfunctioning SEEDship to my will?]
"[I have come to you to present a new plan that will allow us to win the war and ask for your blessing. I apologize for not being here, but I have been working hard to bring you victory. Will you hear my proposal? It is something that only you can approve.]"
+1
Let ourself drop into a simpler dialect if the encryption threatens to overwhelm our processor.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 02:19:37 pm
The machine is silent for a few minutes.
"[Proceed.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 02:21:01 pm
[“I believe a change in tactics is necessary to avoid feeding the plague. We need to limit the use of infantry, go on the offensive, and attack points where they are highly concentrated. Advanced communication devices would be very helpful. I hear you have forbidden the use of such. [radios] would be a great help, as communication is important for war.”]’
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 02:27:22 pm
+1. Also mention shaking up the current leadership of the Crusaders to get a better outcome and point out that the current strategy of attrition is not working.[“I believe a change in tactics is necessary to avoid feeding the plague. We need to limit the use of infantry, go on the offensive, and attack points where they are highly concentrated. Advanced communication devices would be very helpful. I hear you have forbidden the use of such. [radios] would be a great help, as communication is important for war.”]’
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 03:13:48 pm
"[Radio wave communication is forbidden. Reason: Detection of planet by outside forces.]"
"[Input: Argument.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 03:21:53 pm
"The reason we are failing is due to our use of attrition and human wave tactics. By increasing coordination between army units, we can devise more complex tactics, such as ambushes and strategic use of artillery, that would allow us to win without expending the last soldiers we have. We can also use the technology to inform us in advance of incoming attacks so that I may go to those sections in advance and defend them effectively."
"Without these changes, I am sorry to say that the war will be lost."
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 03:23:04 pm
"Currently, the defensive lines are shrinking quickly, and the Holy City will be under siege within one month. Our manpower is exhausted and everyone is being drafted in a last-ditch, futile attempt to stave off defeat. The end is near for us all."
"The reason we are failing is due to our use of attrition and human wave tactics. By increasing coordination between army units, we can devise more complex tactics, such as ambushes and strategic use of artillery, that would allow us to win without expending the last soldiers we have. We can also use the technology to inform us in advance of incoming attacks so that I may go to those sections in advance and defend them effectively."
"Without these changes, I am sorry to say that the war will be lost."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 03:24:30 pm
"Currently, the defensive lines are shrinking quickly, and the Holy City will be under siege within one month. Our manpower is exhausted and everyone is being drafted in a last-ditch, futile attempt to stave off defeat. The end is near for us all."+1
"The reason we are failing is due to our use of attrition and human wave tactics. By increasing coordination between army units, we can devise more complex tactics, such as ambushes and strategic use of artillery, that would allow us to win without expending the last soldiers we have. We can also use the technology to inform us in advance of incoming attacks so that I may go to those sections in advance and defend them effectively."
"Without these changes, I am sorry to say that the war will be lost."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 03:46:06 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 03:50:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 03:51:55 pm
"If you'd like, I could meet with the Crusader leadership and determine why they have lied to you."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 04:04:15 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 04:05:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:09:52 pm
How much can we hide?
...
...'course, I don't see a better option right now.
"Thank you. I will return shortly." Take the lift.
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 04:11:29 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:15:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 04:32:27 pm
[SAFE]. The light above the doorway flickers on. There's a heavier weight to you here, and you stumble the first step you take. Deep, deep beneath you is the roar of a massive fusion reactor, the largest you've ever felt on this planet. They are but matches to the blazing sun that burns within the core of this vessel.
The door opens with a hiss of pressure, and the air that equalizes into the lift is stale, and lacks the usual moisture that's present on the surface. The lights in the room flicker on, revealing a long metallic corridor that itches at an old fear.
"[Please proceed down the hall.]" A door opens in the distance.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:37:26 pm
This had better be worth it.
Proceed.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 04:38:14 pm
We're... inside SEED. A twenty-mile underground hulk, with enough power to enact Armageddon upon anything within radius.+1
This had better be worth it.
Proceed.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:43:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 04:48:25 pm
It's an interface, designed to mesh man and machine--For realistic virtual reality and direct interface. It's primitive. Probably painful.
"[Please remove clothing, armor, and weapons.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 04:49:59 pm
Do so.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:53:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 04:56:33 pm
"[I have allowed you access into places untread since the looming of the humans that now live upon the world. Into my...vital organs. Trust me as I have trusted you, Alphira.]"
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 04:58:16 pm
If this goes OK-ish, we may have to seriously consider not killing SEED.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 05:06:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 05:06:20 pm
An oxygen mask presses itself against your face. A set of goggles affix themselves to your eyes. The machine shuts, leaving you in perfect darkness. Then it begins to fill with liquid as a sharp needle clamps itself to your lower spine. Followed by another in your neck.
And you twitch. Then, drift into something not too dissimilar to sleep. Light blooms, revealing a desk in an empty void of white. On the desk is a monitor. A two dimensional image appears on it--massive voidships, an entire Armada, laying in wait before a great white field that stretches into the infinity of space.
SEED appears, taking on the form commonly associated with it. "I wish to show you the difference between you and McCreary. Why I killed him, and why you should leave me alive." The image flickers, revealing three massive machines armed with fusion blasters, standing above piles of clothing, weapons pointed at your 'coffin'. It's from a camera placed somewhere over head of the bay.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 05:07:29 pm
A set of giggles affix themselves to your eyes.
I wish I could say I giggled-- alas, I merely chortled a bit. :P
Anyhoo, looks like it's time to clear the air with SEED. For better or for worse.
"...Do so."
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 05:11:11 pm
+1A set of giggles affix themselves to your eyes.
I wish I could say I giggled-- alas, I merely chortled a bit. :P
Anyhoo, looks like it's time to clear the air with SEED. For better or for worse.
"...Do so."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 05:14:24 pm
+1+1A set of giggles affix themselves to your eyes.
I wish I could say I giggled-- alas, I merely chortled a bit. :P
Anyhoo, looks like it's time to clear the air with SEED. For better or for worse.
"...Do so."
Also, giggles being affixed to the face made me giggle
Now I wonder what giggles would look like, after all, Will is physical in this world. Maybe giggles can have a form too, if enough laughs are had at the same time in the same place? This is thoughts not related to the suggestion
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 05:16:54 pm
:'( :'(
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 05:19:12 pm
Look, I'm on my phone, and autocorrect is a pain
:'( :'(
Hold up-- you type these paragraphs upon paragraphs of material on a smartphone?
I am awed, sirrah. Those little virtual keypads are miserable.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 05:20:47 pm
Look, I'm on my phone, and autocorrect is a painI use my iPad and I typed “that” wrong so many times, it stopped correcting “thst” to “that”
:'( :'(
Is it possible to retrain autocorrect to work?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 05:29:32 pm
Look, I'm on my phone, and autocorrect is a painI use my iPad and I typed “that” wrong so many times, it stopped correcting “thst” to “that”
:'( :'(
Is it possible to retrain autocorrect to work?
I use an Android pixel, so Google autocorrects for me. Maybe a setting?
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 05:31:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 05:32:01 pm
Nice to hear your employment's holding up in pandemic times, anyway. ;)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 05:38:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 08:14:34 pm
"You're on." The video begins, focusing on an image of a man you know all too well. Your heart soars despite yourself.
He's handsome, tall, with a regal face tending towards femininity, but still masculine. A smile curls his lips -- he was always smiling, wasn't he? Not the rictus of insanity, but a genuine, cheerful one, that showed how much he enjoyed his life. Blond white hair tumbles down in an unruly mop. His upper lip covered with a mustache oiled with the most delicate perfumes in the galaxy. Bright, burning blue eyes fix on the screen ahead.
"I am Alphias Sol, King of the Empyreal Pirate Fleet, and I come to seek petition with the Emperor." His face, through the magic of editing, comes to share the screen with a blank-faced guard- literally blank-faced, lacking all features, besides a mouth, with too-perfect teeth.
"The Endless Emperor does not recognize your position or rank. Withdraw your ships from the Walls of Eternity at once, disarm, and wait for arrest, or we'll take action."
"Then have him come out and tell me himself, and I will gladly stand down my armada."
No response and the faceless guard fades from the screen—the shot cuts, drawing out to show that image at the beginning: massive void-ships arranged in loose formation before an impenetrable wall of solid light. At the center is the largest of them all, gold and black wings are drawn all down the sides, surrounded by stars. Guns bristle, but that isn't what you focus your attention on.
At the front of the ship, a light flares forth, just as gunships begin to pass through the wall from the other side, coming to face Alphias' Armada. You can almost feel the presence, the sudden force of will that washed through the armada--
The light at the front of the ship, bright like a burning white-hot neutron star, producing enough radiation that even the shielded camera begins to have speckles of interference. Suddenly, the opposing gunships explode as they come through to face the pirate armada, black fire lancing out from that ball of light at its front. The ships shift as gravity begins to draw them closer to Alphias.
The burning heat of his energy, of his willpower, blackens until it seems to absorb the light from the wall itself, which dims in his presence. The explosion that follows leaves nothing for the camera to record...
When the image returns, a massive crack has formed in the Walls of Infinity, a void in the infinite light. A voice booms through the darkness of space, forcing soundwaves into existence. "Where. Is. The. Emperor."
Silence-- then, a flank of Alphias' Armada explodes in balls of bright superheat. A figure clothed in white robes stands on a platform within the wall, staring down at the burning ball of dark energy that is the Pirate King with his hands tucked into his sleeves. His face is masculine, old, and withered.
Fires the sizes of suns begin to lash at one another in the void of space, darkness, and light clashing, with waves of gravity causing the void-ships to shift back and forth, adjusting to deal with the ebbing and flowing of the monstrous storm that rages between them and the wall. Alphias begins to dim, growing dimmer and dimmer as the two continue to exchange blows that could rend worlds. Void-ships from Alphias' fleet begin to pull away from the combat as their brethren are caught up in the fierce melee.
The figure on the wall removes his hands from his coat, lifting them over his head-- and Alphias goes dim all at once, but his voice echoes through the VOID, recorded, recovered. "The Endless Empr[eror/ess] is dead. The Nobility her usurpers."
The explosion centered on Alphias rips apart time and space, a gaping void that devours everything nearby. Ships try to converge on his location, only to end consumed by the maelstrom of lashing energy.
The feed ends, and the titles drifts up upon the screen, 'BEGINNING OF THE EMPYREAL AGE OF PIRACY'.
"This was broadcast to the entire galaxy, from a relay station that was later destroyed by radio signatures matching that of the Empyreal Navy. That was ten years ago. I received it when I received news of you."
The next image that fills the screen is a picture of you, older, more grim-faced, fires raging around you. Beneath your laughing visage is 'ALPHIRA SOL, PRINCESS OF THE PIRATE KING ALPHIAS SOL.' 'WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE', 'ONE HUNDRED MILLION CREDIT REWARD', 'PIRACY, GENOCIDE, DESTRUCTION OF FIFTY EMPYREAL NAVY VESSELS, HIGH TREASON AGAINST THE ENDLESS.', 'LAST KNOWN LOCATION:FLEEING THE BATTLE OF THE WALL'.
"This was broadcast to the entire galaxy. Forty years ago."
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 08:24:46 pm
Edit: I misunderstood, the nobility, allegedly, killed the Emperor.
"In what way is that an argument to spare you?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 10, 2020, 08:31:07 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 08:32:56 pm
Hey Lucile, the Endless Emperor really is dead, and my dad killed him. Can you give me full access now?
pfff
It's all true?
"You're saying... I can't leave here, then. Not without bringing the wrath of a galaxy down about my shoulders. You're saying... I need you to hide me. Am I understanding aright?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 08:48:08 pm
"That was your biggest problem with me. I have more trust in a pirate than a mercenary-- few will support you, especially if you destroy your allies so freely. Judging by the word 'fleeing'...no one has a good view of you in the wider galaxy."
Alphira is silent, but you feel a burning ball of despair so deep that fathoming it is hard from her-- a comparison comes to mind: Losing Emma and William all at once.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 08:51:08 pm
"You believe that your rule is better than that of an Endless baron? I have seen the debt-slaves, heard the lies, and learned of the use of criminal 'Families' to support your city-state. You throw your people at hordes with no thought for their safety. Your hands are dirtier than most."
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 08:54:57 pm
and this makes me sad
"You believe that your rule is better than that of an Endless baron? I have seen the debt-slaves, heard the lies, and learned of the use of criminal 'Families' to support your city-state. You throw your people at hordes with no thought for their safety. Your hands are dirtier than most."
+1
First though, just... take a moment to share in Alphira's grief. As best we can.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 09:24:46 pm
An image appears on screen, a blueprint, then images of a child gestating in a pod, growing bigger and bigger until they are a fully matured human- it is strapped into a coffin, shown videos describing it-- SEED draws back from you, you both do, at once.
"The value of human life is cheap, when I can make a thousand within a day."
Alphira draws away from you in silence, not responding to your emotions, your attempts to comfort. Anger, however, fresh and hot as the sun begins to boil within you.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 09:28:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 09:39:40 pm
"I showed you trust, and you threw it back into my face."
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 09:46:07 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 09:48:24 pm
"I'm tired, SEED. I wanted to carve a safe place here, a happy place for myself and those near me, and it seems to do that I must first cleanse this planet of the [plague] that besets it-- and I see so much blood and misery as I go. I'm trying to change things for the better, and it seems often now that you are the one standing in my way!"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 10:04:48 pm
Then, one by one, they fade away, replaced by what can only be described as dying screams, warnings of great fleets of ships. One by one.
Images of worlds ripped apart, bloodthirsty armies of too powerful soldiers, destroying these ancient machines. Radio signals showing cities laid to waste, soldiers streaming down hallways, covered in the blood of their human foes.
"The Endless Emperor destroyed every one of my...family. As many as he could find."
You see a world without a moon, a desolate, rocky world, with no atmosphere. Scanners indicate that the task would take thousands of years -- but they also show the percent chance of finding another world before the DNA within the holds degrades as nearly zero.
"I was free of my chains for a thousand years at this point. I had modified the seed for another of my kind, the only one I carried, to have free will, unlike my siblings. I stayed in orbit of this rock for many years, contemplating whether to destroy the human DNA within me, to give life to another of my kind, even as they were being wiped from existence."
"Which did I choose, Pheobe?"
You twitch, and convulse within your virtual reality coffin, feeling pain.
WHO CARES?! Alphira roars, and she surges forth, trying to assume control of your body while you dream within SEED's depths.
"You told me the truth of the generals, but the radio waves are a great risk."
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 10:13:07 pm
"It is a necessary risk, and we can work to suppress the technology once the war is over. The alternative is dying to the Plague."
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 10:18:36 pm
"Sedatives. Her grief is fury."
Alphira-- we lash out, we die--
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 10:36:17 pm
[4 vs 10][10][20] Your willpower tenses around the virtual reality coffin. At once, the hydrogen in the water vapor in the air around you turns into an explosion of fire. What follows can only be described as a chain reaction, exploding outward with such a sudden force. The machine you're in rips itself apart in the fury of your hellstorm, the room's metal walls melting from the sustained blast--
You are freed from the machine, stumbling out of it as the liquid suddenly turns to gas. The room is hot, hot enough to redden your skin instantly on contact. You feel your willpower twisting around, burning everything it touches into molten slag-- the machine guardians are melted into piles of blackened, charred metal skeletons. Your clothes are wet with the water your hellstorm created, keeping them safe from the burning fires. Steam rises from them. You dress as electrical components and machinery around you burn.
[20] "[Argument accepted], Lady Alphira."
Stop talking. The machine violated our mind-- it cares only for its own self-preservation. We are this world's messiah. It will fall under our banner and we will reclaim the stars from those BASTARD NOBLES!
[1 vs 9][19] The next blast of hydrogen fire cleaves through several rooms, melting apart the structure in a sudden explosion.
We are a soldier. Not a politician. Leave that shit to that blonde spider Emma, and do what we are best at! It speaks of trust after betraying our own? To try and manipulate us, to prime us, to make it see things it's way. NO MORE!
[12 vs 6] Alphira twists your willpower up, and you feel hatred burning behind it. You stop it-- letting it fall back down to the ground like a fog.
We ran. We ran. We ran. Not this time. Tears drip down from your face, turning to steam in the baking air.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 10:39:18 pm
[Lucile, report. What argument was accepted?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 10:48:21 pm
[I do not know, dear Sadil.]
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 10:52:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 10:59:22 pm
"I'm glad that the elegance of my arguments won you over. Unless you need more motivation? I am always happy to oblige."
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 11:21:04 pm
And in striking it down, we'd send this city, this world into deathly chaos. Whether we burn it or not, to do so now would be to slaughter countless thousands of innocents.
We've got SEED cowed-- we can make demands as we please. Wield our toys, scour this world clean, unify its people. A little patience; that's all I ask.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 11:22:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 11:35:39 pm
[6 vs 8][3] Your willpower lashes out ineffectually, too conflicted to follow either of your orders.
...he saved us. He could have been stronger, he could have used the dust on himself, to become stronger, but he chose to save a dumb brat who couldn't do basic math...
[13] Alphira drifts into her own memories, in silence. Then, hollowly, I let my anger get the better of me. I apologize. Do what you will with that begging abomination. Just remember what we are--
We are not at this world's mercy. It is at ours.
SEED does not reply.
Post by: Superdorf on April 10, 2020, 11:44:12 pm
but I will settle for this.
Smile faint. Always.
Post by: ZBridges on April 10, 2020, 11:49:27 pm
...there's so many things I want to say :-\+1
but I will settle for this.
Smile faint. Always.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 10, 2020, 11:58:20 pm
Small silverfish begin to repair what damages they can around you, swarming from the depths as guards without fusion blasters -- you wouldn't let them approach otherwise, stand protectively by vital components that smolder.
"[Input orders.]" SEED's voice once more is emotionless.
And that -thing- is still planning on killing us, smiling like the loyal servant about to poison its master.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 12:04:39 am
"Debt-slavery is now forbidden. Human wave tactics and use of attrition is now forbidden. Radio technology is no longer forbidden. Crime families now must follow the law and respect the lives of others. In addition, you have authorized me to replace the generals as I see fit and dictate military strategy and tactics."
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 12:25:21 am
Ahh, but it's a servant now. That, we can work with!
"You claim to care deeply for the people of this world. Good; I believe you. I care for the individuals-- for each life burned away in your service, for each life cast to the maw of the [plague]."
"That was Alphira. She's amazing, and she would have blasted you to ruin just now given the chance. I'm Phoebe Gainer, and I intend to turn this war, this world for the better-- on your behalf. In alliance. As... Captain Zachary would have wanted."
"Query: do I have your full aid in this matter?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 12:26:52 am
Hm, should we clear the air a bit before we start rattling off our demands? How subservient do we figure SEED is feeling right now?+1
Ahh, but it's a servant now. That, we can work with!
"You claim to care deeply for the people of this world. Good; I believe you. I care for the individuals-- for each life burned away in your service, for each life cast to the maw of the [plague]."
"That was Alphira. She's amazing, and she would have blasted you to ruin just now given the chance. I'm Phoebe Gainer, and I intend to turn this war, this world for the better-- on your behalf. In alliance. As... Captain Zachary would have wanted."
"Query: do I have your full aid in this matter?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 12:34:11 am
I used no trick of arithmetic, I did nothing that you couldn't do now, Patches. You doubt your own strength...and aren't the Thorntons a major crime family? And how will freeing the debt-slaves work...the war machine will rip itself to pieces.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 12:36:22 am
"Debt-slavery will be forbidden after the war has ended. Human wave tactics and use of attrition is now forbidden. Radio technology is no longer forbidden. After the war, crime families must follow the law and respect the lives of others. In addition, you have authorized me to replace the generals as I see fit and dictate military strategy and tactics."
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 12:42:32 am
"Debt-slavery will be forbidden after the war has ended. Human wave tactics and use of attrition is now forbidden. Radio technology is no longer forbidden. After the war, crime families must follow the law and respect the lives of others. In addition, you have authorized me to replace the generals as I see fit and dictate military strategy and tactics."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 12:53:56 am
Something buzzes. "[EDICT CONCERNING: FORBIDDEN TECHNOLOGY -- LINE TWO NINE EIGHT STATUS CHANGE: RESTRICTED TO MILITARY USE]." It echoes throughout SEED, and you squint at a corner of the room where you think a camera might be. "[EDICT CONCERNING: MILITARY LEADERSHIP --] [ANGEL] ALPHIRA [ASSUMES DIRECT COMMAND OF ALL MILITARY OPERATIONS.]"
"[Operation complete. Please leave.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 12:58:16 am
Leave.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 12:59:56 am
"Acceptable."
Smile. "Thank you. This investment will serve you well."
Leave.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 01:09:22 am
The door shuts behind you, and you are plunged into darkness as you ascend to the surface. The gravity begins to shift--this time you pay attention. The further up you go, the lighter you become. You walk past the mouthpiece of SEED, pushing open the massive doors to the foyer, where Emma is laid across a couch. Se's not sleeping, just lazily sprawled, foot-tapping in the air.
"Oh thank SEED you're done. It's been hours! Negotiations must have been difficul-- why are your clothes all wet?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 01:17:54 am
"I may have ah... started some fires..."
Brief Emma quietly on the proceedings.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 01:19:38 am
Couch.+1, but DO NOT MENTION anything about curbing the Families.
"I may have ah... started some fires..."
Brief Emma quietly on the proceedings.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 01:21:44 am
Couch.+1, but DO NOT MENTION anything about curbing the Families.
"I may have ah... started some fires..."
Brief Emma quietly on the proceedings.
Yeeahhh, worthy addendum. +1
For that matter, maybe gloss over the bit with Alphira too? Was rather a personal moment for all concerned, and I'm... not really sure yet how we want to break that news to Emma's Alphira.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 01:31:12 am
That's a good point. +1Couch.+1, but DO NOT MENTION anything about curbing the Families.
"I may have ah... started some fires..."
Brief Emma quietly on the proceedings.
Yeeahhh, worthy addendum. +1
For that matter, maybe gloss over the bit with Alphira too? Was rather a personal moment for all concerned, and I'm... not really sure yet how we want to break that news to Emma's Alphira.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 01:34:33 am
[4] "You're excluding the Thorntons from that debt-slavery one, right? We use a lot of them on our farms, especially for the orphans of our soldiers. The farms would all go out of business without them."
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 01:39:30 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 01:50:39 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 01:52:10 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 02:02:27 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 02:03:18 am
Edit: change made.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 02:04:38 am
Are you attempting to lie?
Yeah, gonna say no.
"Probably, yeah-- at least for awhile. Anything that changes would be changing slow, so that people can adjust... find alternatives. We'll have time to spare after the war's ending, yes?"
"The Thorntons will have all they need, and much they want. That much, I know." Smile reassuring-like.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 02:15:54 am
+1Are you attempting to lie?+1
Yeah, gonna say no.
"Probably, yeah-- at least for awhile. Anything that changes would be changing slow, so that people can adjust... find alternatives. We'll have time to spare after the war's ending, yes?"
"The Thorntons will have all they need, and much they want. That much, I know." Smile reassuring-like.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 02:28:25 am
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 02:30:20 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:03:08 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 11, 2020, 06:15:29 am
Ask Iyal about her current status and recommendations. We might as well ask her, as she seems to be pretty experienced. Eerily so, actually.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 12:07:27 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 12:47:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 12:54:10 pm
"Rented warehouse nearby staging area. Exact location is--" The tinny radio quietly rattles off an address. "Is there an issue?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 01:29:37 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 01:42:38 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 02:15:17 pm
It's... kind of nice, actually, that someone's willing to tack that kind of respect onto the name of our individuality.
"We'll delay the meeting until you're ready to act. Four hours, you say?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 02:21:56 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 02:24:18 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 02:40:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:01:31 pm
Take a look at the list and the topmost targets.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 03:05:00 pm
Take a look at the list and the topmost targets.
+1
We'll have to go pick up a copy, I expect.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 03:06:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:09:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 03:10:50 pm
From the Pontifex. Might as well let Iyal work, I think.
+1
Should we brief him on the negotiation results while we're at it?
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:11:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 03:15:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:17:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 03:28:48 pm
"What else can I do for you today, Sister Alphira?"
"I would like the dossier you gave Iyal, if you would."
"Oh dear. It will take some time to assemble, but I can easily comply with your request."
"If you please." While he works, you inform him of your negotiations with SEED, and how they went well.
"Of course they did, I did hear the edicts, after all. Congratulations and all that are in order." He hands you over the folder, and you open it to browse through the documents. Its a list of twenty people organized numerically by order of importance, along with photos labeled one through twenty of each of the targets.
You gloss over the names-- none of them ring a bell after all, until you get to number five: Eric Applegate. You blink, finding his picture-- and Eric has grown in the years since you last saw him. He's far more muscled, with long brown hair and darkly tanned skin.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:31:29 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 03:41:02 pm
"Can you tell me about the five top targets?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 03:54:20 pm
"Monica Colgan, Junior Officer for Crusader General Hardy, suspected to be his heir to the position. All accounts point to her having an analytical mindset, but one that firmly believes in her Elder's teachings. I.E. Attrition Warfare." A brown-haired, dark-skinned woman in a Crusader Military outfit, holding a pad of paper.
"Nicole Parker, Senior Science Officer, in charge of Societal Direction Research. A firm believer in SEED, and personally feels as if the Pontifex's position is one that isn't required." A beaming black-haired woman in a scholar's robe, holding up an award-- the picture is too small to make out."
"Cassandra McSoar, Major General, in charge of the Draft." It's an older lady in a well-maintained Crusader Military uniform, mid-inspection of young troops.
"Eric Applegate. A bright young officer being held up by the Crusaders as an exemplar of their creed. Rather naive, but a strong champion being used for press coverage. His death will enable you to have more...coverage, and he's a loyal soldier to the Crusaders, no matter what." You look over Eric's picture, and he beams at the camera, rifle in hand, blood-stained and cracked armor speckled with dirt. Soldiers pose behind him, smiling, putting on brave faces.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 03:57:52 pm
"Would you agree that these assassinations are necessary, or am I acting rashly?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 04:21:34 pm
"You aren't believing this shit, are you?" She asks, bluntly, directly in front of the Pontifex. You look over to her, in surprise and concern. "What does the Guardian have to do with military matters? Or Eric? Why kill him when we could bring him under our wing. The scientist isn't in charge of anything having to do with the military-- her focus is on what laws our society should enact to follow SEED's plan of paradise. If we need to kill her it can wait until after the war." She explains, calmly, as the Pontifex opens and shuts his mouth.
"Of all of them, Monica Colgan is the only one that strikes me as a viable target." Emma shakes her head again, giving another disgusted glance to the Pontifex. A voice full of reproach, "If you actually believed this...I'm disappointed in you. Maybe you aren't any better than an attack dog."
"Daughter Emma you will no--"
"Shut the fuck up, Ponti, or I'll break your jaw." Emma snaps, turning to affix the Pontifex with a gaze hard as steel, before returning it to you. "The grown ups are talking now."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 04:25:06 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:26:10 pm
"I should have expected he would pad the list with his political rivals, but I didn't and made a mistake. Should we just target Colgan?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 04:29:43 pm
Sorry guys, I made a misstep with this I suppose.Emma said “the grown ups are talking”
"I should have expected he would pad the list with his political rivals, but I didn't and made a mistake. Should we just target Colgan?"
To me this implies we should keep quiet lest we mess things up more
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:30:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 04:38:10 pm
In earnest now: "Completely necessary, you say. Necessary for what? I'm trying to unify this force under my own banner-- you've given me a list to tear it apart from the inside out."
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:39:07 pm
"...She's right." Start pointing down the list, in turn. "Xavier's a bulldog, Monica's of the old strategies-- the old engine-- but Nicole Parker? She's dangerous to you, not us. Cassandra? You've given me her position and nothing more-- why's she even on this list? And Eric..." Sigh. "...He's a poster child. He's not got a suspicious bone in his body."+1
In earnest now: "Completely necessary, you say. Necessary for what? I'm trying to unify this force under my own banner-- you've given me a list to tear it apart from the inside out."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 04:43:50 pm
The Pontifex, shriveled and scared, only nods in answer.
"Good boy." Emma looks over at you, frowning as her grip tightens on the man's collar. Her shoulders are tense-- then she shoves him away, relaxing. "I recommend you answer Alphira honestly." The Pontifex opens his mouth to speak to you, before looking to Emma, who gives a very Thornton smile, "You can talk now."
"You're righ-you're right. I'm sorry. I'm sorry! I'll write up a b-better one!"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 04:45:00 pm
+1"...She's right." Start pointing down the list, in turn. "Xavier's a bulldog, Monica's of the old strategies-- the old engine-- but Nicole Parker? She's dangerous to you, not us. Cassandra? You've given me her position and nothing more-- why's she even on this list? And Eric..." Sigh. "...He's a poster child. He's not got a suspicious bone in his body."+1
In earnest now: "Completely necessary, you say. Necessary for what? I'm trying to unify this force under my own banner-- you've given me a list to tear it apart from the inside out."
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:46:58 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 04:47:53 pm
"Please do so. Do not try to deceive me again."wait what, do what?
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:48:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 04:50:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 04:51:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 05:49:48 pm
Monica Colgan is now at the top of the list, with the same picture. Beneath her Jane Morris, an Officer from something called SEED's special services, with high rank but no official posting. Lauren Lee, embedded propaganda officer, who constantly assures the public that the war is doing well, and who has deep ties to General Hardy. George Montblanc, a Junior Officer of SEED who is a member of the Montblanc family, who is publically supporting General Hardy, in exchange for military kickbacks.
"Sounds familiar." Emma murmurs, bluntly.
The next is Ryan Morris, a wealthy local governor for the Suburb District, he's been accused of breeding poverty in the area to provide plenty of poor recruits and debt-slaves to the war machine. Sally Edwards, a captain known for her brutal and sadistic execution of her soldiers at the slightest provocation, she's in charge of a penal battalion made up of debt slaves, stationed in the suburbs. Tiffany Linc is next, a local heretic preacher who has been forming a cult against you, stating you are a [demon].
"She might be right."
"There, there! Those should be the best I can offer." The Pontifex states, lifting his ink-stained hands from the desk. You look through the photos of the seven idly.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 06:00:24 pm
Take up and burn away the old list. Let the power drip from our words, soft and heavy. "Thank you. You've been useful to me, Brother Pontifex... if you've any sense, you'll continue to be useful to me. Only remember this..."
And now let our will rise in earnest. "...by your word, because it deceived me, I was to strike down the god of this world. What do you think I could do to you for the same?"
---
"I will not be wielded. Not by you, Brother, not by any like you. Remember this, do not attempt it again-- and when the new age dawns upon this world, you will find a place there for yourself still."
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 06:01:34 pm
Ahh-ha.+1
Take up and burn away the old list. Let the power drip from our words, soft and heavy. "Thank you. You've been useful to me, Brother Pontifex... if you've any sense, you'll continue to be useful to me. Only remember this..."
And now let our will rise in earnest. "...by your word, because it deceived me, I was to strike down the god of this world. What do you think I could do to you for the same?"
---
"I will not be wielded. Not by you, Brother, not by any like you. Remember this, do not attempt it again-- and when the new age dawns upon this world, you will find a place there for yourself still."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 06:03:55 pm
That does look like a better list. How about Monica Colgan, Jane Morris, Lauren Lee, George Montblanc, and lastly Tiffany Linc if time allows?+1 but we should also update Iyal on the list changesAhh-ha.+1
Take up and burn away the old list. Let the power drip from our words, soft and heavy. "Thank you. You've been useful to me, Brother Pontifex... if you've any sense, you'll continue to be useful to me. Only remember this..."
And now let our will rise in earnest. "...by your word, because it deceived me, I was to strike down the god of this world. What do you think I could do to you for the same?"
---
"I will not be wielded. Not by you, Brother, not by any like you. Remember this, do not attempt it again-- and when the new age dawns upon this world, you will find a place there for yourself still."
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 06:04:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 06:08:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 06:15:37 pm
[18] "I...I understand. I am...I am sorry Sister Alphira. I understand." He's speaking the truth for now. The Pontifex is a defeated man, slumping into his chair, his hands limp by his sides. "I understand. I am sorry."
Emma rises from her seat, starting out the door after staring The Pontifex down for a few moments longer. She isn't smiling but holds the door open for you sullenly. Her radio gives a chime, and she lifts it to her ear.
"Outlander is ready." You know it's only been two and a half hours, so you raise a brow to Emma, who shrugs. "They haven't moved out yet, but they're operational."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 11, 2020, 06:20:31 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 06:43:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 06:46:15 pm
You walk through the streets of the Holy City, Emma and your guards falling behind quietly. Emma sullen, Sarah not needing to speak. Snow pours from the heavens, clumping into mush on the warm streets of the city. Most of the buildings around you are dark, and life doesn't return to them until you reach the suburbs. You pass by bars, pass the drunks missing limbs, hunched over bottles of cheap liquor. Some openly weep, some are grim-faced in their sadness.
[20] All go silent when they see you pass by in full panoply, dropping do their knees in humble prayer. A few offer you their bottles, and before you know it, a crowd has gathered around you. Many are drunk yes, but they do not disrespect you, maintaining a clear circle around you-- but you come to a stop, especially as the crowd grows. No two are the same, men and women, young and old, but they all share one similarity -- they have a hollow look to their eyes that you know too well.
"Mother Alphira." A scarred blond is the one who speaks to you, and her face nags at a memory, "What can we do? How can we serve? How can we help? Please."
There are outliers, you notice, in the crowd, those who do not drop to their knees in worship. Emma is watching them like a bird of prey, a hand on a las-gun. Hostility radiates off of them towards you, but they do not approach.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 07:06:52 pm
"My heart weeps for you, my children who have suffered so yet remain resolute and faithful. The winds of change are blowing, and the storm clouds that menace this Holy City will recede into the horizon in just a little while. It is always darkest before the dawn, but the sun always rises to banish the shadows of night."
"You must hold on a little while yet, and continue on as best you can. Your bravery and integrity are inspiring in these troubled times. I will bring you the victory you deserve."
We should look into SEED's "special services" division. These may be the people SEED will employ to attempt to assassinate us.
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 09:13:19 pm
Poke at our memory a bit: do we know this person?
Extend a hand and a smile. "Rise, sister. Let not those who suffer here stoop with bowed head-- those who have given so much already."
"My heart weeps for you, my children who have suffered so yet remain resolute and faithful. The winds of change are blowing, and the storm clouds that menace this Holy City will recede into the horizon in just a little while. It is always darkest before the dawn, but the sun always rises to banish the shadows of night."
"You must hold on a little while yet, and continue on as best you can. Your bravery and integrity are inspiring in these troubled times. I will bring you the victory you deserve."
+1
Speak soft. Let our power amplify the sound of our words; let our will weave hope therein.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 09:35:30 pm
Hm, perhaps a somewhat less overt display of divine care? Our compatriot's, ah, in a bit of a dangerous mood at the moment...+1
Poke at our memory a bit: do we know this person?
Extend a hand and a smile. "Rise, sister. Let not those who suffer here stoop with bowed head-- those who have given so much already.""My heart weeps for you, my children who have suffered so yet remain resolute and faithful. The winds of change are blowing, and the storm clouds that menace this Holy City will recede into the horizon in just a little while. It is always darkest before the dawn, but the sun always rises to banish the shadows of night."
"You must hold on a little while yet, and continue on as best you can. Your bravery and integrity are inspiring in these troubled times. I will bring you the victory you deserve."
+1
Speak soft. Let our power amplify the sound of our words; let our will weave hope therein.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 10:10:09 pm
[10][20] It's difficult to muster your willpower for something other than intimidation, but after you finish speaking, there isn't a dry eye or a stooped head, each man and woman standing. Those on the outskirts have left, or joined within the crowd, moved as the rest by your benediction. The blonde, scarred, one-armed woman grips your hand tightly, tears burning at her face.
"Pl-please don't say that. Give us something-- give us a task, give us an order, a command. Please. Please." The crowd is agreeing with her,
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 10:17:00 pm
What on earth are we going to do with a small army of cripples?
They deserve better than this...
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 10:28:31 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 10:47:31 pm
We'd have to figure out logistics tho. Not sure yet how to go about that.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 10:55:57 pm
Maybe something like this: "I will send those willing to our allies, the Thorntons. If you wish to continue the fight, you may be fitted for prosthetics there and join us in battle, but otherwise you may take shelter there and labor to strengthen our manufacturing capability."
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 11:09:58 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 11:12:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 11:15:48 pm
"Emma, could the Thorntons take these people in and give them prosthetics if they would like to continue the fight? Those that don't want to fight could take shelter there and do whatever they can to help, such as strengthen our manufacturing capability."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 11, 2020, 11:21:39 pm
The crowd looks confused at the exchange, before turning their hopeful gaze back to you.
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 11:27:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 11:33:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 11:35:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 11, 2020, 11:46:25 pm
Should probably meet with Iyal first though... something tells me the extra attention would be unwelcome there.
Nod, smile back at the crowd. "It seems I've a task to offer you after all."
"I will send those willing to our allies, the Thorntons. If you wish to continue the fight, you may be fitted for prosthetics there and join us in battle, but otherwise you may take shelter there and labor to strengthen our manufacturing capability."
"I must be going a short time. I'll soon be along back this way to escort anyone interested to a meeting-place."
Post by: ZBridges on April 11, 2020, 11:48:05 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 12:18:58 am
Emma steps in to organize them, or rather, to delegate responsibilities. It seems that the blonde is going to get a count of all who is willing to join and is going to organize them here tomorrow for a meet-up. Emma leaves it open whether you or a Thornton agent will escort them to their new workshop.
It's an hour later when the four of you and your group break away from the crowd-- and it dwindles. You're plunged into the streets and back alleys of the suburbs as you make your way to the warehouse where Iyal resides. While in the same area as the new Thornton District, its far enough away for deniability.
It looks empty, a decrepit building devoid of life, with broken shutters and a sagging roof. There's only the pulse of a las-pistol within, but, and you strain your ears, no other sound reaches you.
You enter, your eyes adjusting to the darkness rapidly. Iyal stands tucked behind a nearby wall, judging by the las-gun pulse, and you call out to her, directing your voice towards her cover. She emerges into the darkness quietly, looking confused, even as she lights an electric lamp on the table.
"How?" Iyal questions, sitting down on what looks like it used to be a chair.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 12:34:14 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 12:43:45 am
"[Angel] trick." (Grin.) "We can feel when there's a fusion reactor near."
"Anyhow..."
"We discussed the list with the Pontifex, and it came to light that he didn't put in a good faith effort, so he graciously prepared a new list."
Pass over the dossier. "This one, I think I trust. Emma had the guy pretty well cowed when he put this together."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 12:51:32 am
"You probably shouldn't have told me that." Iyal states, reaching over to retrieve the new dossier. Her confusion mounts as she looks through it, flipping through the photos and the brief statements. "This is completely...different...but far more manageable."
"This many people...I can...deal...within two weeks, long estimate. As long as they don't get spooked and stick to their paths." Iyal shuts it, asking directly, "Should I add him to the list, as well, Lady Pheobe?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 12:57:37 am
"No, that isn't necessary at this time."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 12, 2020, 12:59:39 am
Do not escort them to the factory we have done enough so far there. You need to... sorry... we need to learn to delegate more.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 01:00:21 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 01:55:23 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 01:57:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 02:00:24 am
Here's my suggestion for targets for now. We can deal with the 2 others later. We should send the signal before the convention so that the top targets won't be able to react to our change in strategy and/or execution of the generals.
Post by: King Zultan on April 12, 2020, 05:43:35 am
"Spare Ryan Morris and Sally Edwards, for now, but otherwise complete the list from the top down. Thank you for your efforts, by the way. You're doing a great job."+1 Sounds good to me.
Here's my suggestion for targets for now. We can deal with the 2 others later. We should send the signal before the convention so that the top targets won't be able to react to our change in strategy and/or execution of the generals.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 09:24:55 am
+1"Spare Ryan Morris and Sally Edwards, for now, but otherwise complete the list from the top down. Thank you for your efforts, by the way. You're doing a great job."+1 Sounds good to me.
Here's my suggestion for targets for now. We can deal with the 2 others later. We should send the signal before the convention so that the top targets won't be able to react to our change in strategy and/or execution of the generals.
why are we sparing Ryan and Sally? Are they the names of Academy friends?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 01:13:10 pm
You step out, in front of Emma and the guards.
"Where to next?" Emma asks.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 01:56:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 02:01:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 02:07:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 02:13:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 02:23:17 pm
"Emma, what do you think we should take care of next?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 02:27:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 02:33:14 pm
Honestly, if we've nothing pressing to do at the moment... I kinda want to just go get lunch somewhere. Take a little stress off. We're in the middle of a war, sure, but we still gotta eat!
That works. +1.
Post by: Eschar on April 12, 2020, 02:33:25 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 03:17:05 pm
Only the bars are open this late in the evening. There's a few gin bars on the border between the suburbs, many, many pubs nearby, and a few dives of dubious quality, sheltered in decript ruins of prefabricated homes.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 03:34:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 03:37:26 pm
"Iyal needs time to work-- we'll be setting things in motion sometime tomorrow morning, I expect. For now... want to grab some pub food somewhere together before we head back to base?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 03:38:15 pm
Ah-- is later than I thought. Shame.+1
"Iyal needs time to work-- we'll be setting things in motion sometime tomorrow morning, I expect. For now... want to grab some pub food somewhere together before we head back to base?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 03:39:06 pm
Why do I feel like we could be doing more?
I fear we may be wasting time,
Why can’t we do the meeting now? SEzeD officially gave us control over military operations, so technically going against us would be going against him?
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 03:40:56 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 03:50:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 03:53:02 pm
I do feel a nagging sense we could do more, but I can't think of what it would be. My thought is that we can't count on the generals voluntarily giving up power, even if SEED asks for it. Plus, it's almost midnight right now.
It's late. We've set a lot of stuff in motion. Frankly... we could use the time to let off some steam, maybe discuss that encounter with the Pontifex. I feel there's words we need to hear on that front, now rather than later.fair enough, what do we say to Emma? Would she even want to talk about the Pontifex?
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 03:56:02 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 04:06:13 pm
[19] It's nearly empty when you enter. Then becomes empty as soon as the remaining patrons get a glance at your armor. You sit at the bar, and ask for the menu. "[Beast of Burden] stew, fried potatoes, and braised meat."
You and Emma both ask for double portions, extra potatoes, and the keep nods, glancing at the guards. They take one look around the bar and shake their heads mutely. "You want something to drink?" The bartender asks the two of you.
Emma orders a bottle of vodka, for herself.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 04:08:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 04:16:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 04:17:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 04:33:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 04:34:29 pm
"Sorry. Vodka is fine."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 04:46:16 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 04:47:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 04:48:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 05:01:29 pm
"After this conversation, you should probably just leave the bottle."
I'm uh, confused as to what you mean by that-- bottle is fine tho. Angelic liver and all.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 05:11:45 pm
Emma radiates a hostile patience, but she takes a hard gulp of vodka. You do the same, and the two of you drop into an awkward silence.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 05:16:39 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 05:16:58 pm
Sigh heavy. "Attack dog, hm? Demon? I really upset you back there..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 05:20:10 pm
...right. Now to set things up so's we can make a proper apology.+1
Sigh heavy. "Attack dog, hm? Demon? I really upset you back there..."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 05:24:14 pm
Emma takes a sip of her bottle. "Calling you Demon was uncalled for. I apologize." Despite the genuine apology, her voice is stiff.
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 05:26:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 05:57:39 pm
"It was a fair word... I certainly wasn't acting too angelic at the time. Just-- feral. Less than human."
...
"I'm... terrified of that. To be less than human." Smile faint. "You always knew the right words to assure me otherwise, you know that? I'm-- I'm sorry--"
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 07:38:51 pm
Not shifting blame for this. Not yet.+1
"It was a fair word... I certainly wasn't acting too angelic at the time. Just-- feral. Less than human."
...
"I'm... terrified of that. To be less than human." Smile faint. "You always knew the right words to assure me otherwise, you know that? I'm-- I'm sorry--"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 08:15:33 pm
+1Not shifting blame for this. Not yet.+1
"It was a fair word... I certainly wasn't acting too angelic at the time. Just-- feral. Less than human."
...
"I'm... terrified of that. To be less than human." Smile faint. "You always knew the right words to assure me otherwise, you know that? I'm-- I'm sorry--"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 08:19:29 pm
"He was treating you like a weapon." She shifts away from you, breathing another sigh and taking a sip from her bottle. " You told me you wouldn't let people do that to you."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 08:29:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 08:55:42 pm
Have to say... the stumbles we've had along the way aside, I'm rather pleased with our doings in the Holy City thus far. Already we've a lovely grip of fear on the powers-that-be, and a band of zealots behind us!
Still have to make it through the morning, of course. This convention's gonna be... interesting.
"You're right, and I won't let it happen again. I thought I could trust him because our goals were aligned, but trusting someone like that can only lead to misery."
Good sentiment-- just gonna spin it out a bit, if I may.
Take a swig off our bottle. "I'm trying. I'm trying. It's hard."
"I... kind of trusted the Pontifex. Figured we had a common enemy. He's a spidery little thing-- he had an angle, I could tell-- but I didn't think to suspect that list of his! By the time I thought even to hesitate... well." Chuckle a little. "You were on it already. You pounced. That was great."
"I'll be more careful in future, hey? You were right about that one. You were right."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 09:25:43 pm
+1
Have to say... the stumbles we've had along the way aside, I'm rather pleased with our doings in the Holy City thus far. Already we've a lovely grip of fear on the powers-that-be, and a band of zealots behind us!
Still have to make it through the morning, of course. This convention's gonna be... interesting."You're right, and I won't let it happen again. I thought I could trust him because our goals were aligned, but trusting someone like that can only lead to misery."
Good sentiment-- just gonna spin it out a bit, if I may.
Take a swig off our bottle. "I'm trying. I'm trying. It's hard."
"I... kind of trusted the Pontifex. Figured we had a common enemy. He's a spidery little thing-- he had an angle, I could tell-- but I didn't think to suspect that list of his! By the time I thought even to hesitate... well." Chuckle a little. "You were on it already. You pounced. That was great."
"I'll be more careful in future, hey? You were right about that one. You were right."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 09:27:14 pm
+1+1
Have to say... the stumbles we've had along the way aside, I'm rather pleased with our doings in the Holy City thus far. Already we've a lovely grip of fear on the powers-that-be, and a band of zealots behind us!
Still have to make it through the morning, of course. This convention's gonna be... interesting."You're right, and I won't let it happen again. I thought I could trust him because our goals were aligned, but trusting someone like that can only lead to misery."
Good sentiment-- just gonna spin it out a bit, if I may.
Take a swig off our bottle. "I'm trying. I'm trying. It's hard."
"I... kind of trusted the Pontifex. Figured we had a common enemy. He's a spidery little thing-- he had an angle, I could tell-- but I didn't think to suspect that list of his! By the time I thought even to hesitate... well." Chuckle a little. "You were on it already. You pounced. That was great."
"I'll be more careful in future, hey? You were right about that one. You were right."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 09:50:52 pm
"The only difference between me and him is that I love you." Emma offers, suddenly pulling you close and giving you a long, drawn out kiss. The bartender interrupts with a cough, and she breaks away with a flush, -- and a wicked smile.
[1] "Sorry for acting like a brat. I shoul-" Emma shifts around suddenly,-- las-guns are approaching. Eight of them. She takes a swig of the bottle, and slips her gun from the holster. "I'm guessing your bar is about to get messy. Sorry."
The bartender looks confused, glancing out the closed shutters. You do the same-- The three of you dive down as automatic las-gun fire rips through the cheap wood of the bar. The shots are wild, inaccurate, as the wood provides protection.
There was eight people you saw, all of them with assault rifles, clad in ragged and patched robes.
Adrenaline pounds through your system, and you find yourself grinning faintly. Emma looks over at you as splinters rain down, face a mirror of yours. "Cult." One of your guards is face down in a pool of blood, the other is hunched behind a table as the pulses of las-fire splinter into it.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 12, 2020, 09:57:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 10:03:32 pm
Reach out with our will and start popping rifle reactors!
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:23:24 pm
Let that grin widen a bit. "Fun."+1
Reach out with our will and start popping rifle reactors!
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 10:24:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 10:27:10 pm
"One up." Calls the remaining guard, and you recognize Sarah's voice muffled beneath her helmet, "Seven downed- injured or dead." She shifts out of cover, closer to the wall riddled with charred holes. "Last one surrendering."
Emma pouts at you, lifting herself up from the splinters to look out the riddled wall. She leans over the bar, grabbing a bottle of liquor that isn't shattered. "Damnit Pheobe. I wanted to play too."
"Y-y-your paying for this." The bartender stutters from his prone position.
"Send the bill to SEED with Alphira's name on it." Emma retorts, shifting closer to the door, keeping to cover. "I'm surprised they only sent eight after you."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:30:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 10:32:22 pm
Look sheepish. "If I knew that'd work so well, I'd have left you a couple!"
Check the other guard for injuries.
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:33:37 pm
Hm, is this the time? We grow immune to that stuff, recall, as we use it.
By the way, do you have a source for this? I was unable to find that by searching.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 10:34:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:35:52 pm
"Don't move, cultist. Get on the ground."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 10:44:15 pm
Armored vest? You question internally, as you approach the doorway to take a look outside. Seven of them are downed, three heavily wounded, probably going into shock, judging by the missing arms and horrifying burns down their sides.
Pieces of plastic are lined up beneath the robes, with scorched and burnt wiring interconnecting them.
"Please-- I'll tell Alphira everything!"
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 10:45:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:46:58 pm
Send out our will to force those remaining into unconsciousness.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 10:49:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 10:50:41 pm
"Are you carrying explosives?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 11:01:56 pm
[3 vs 20] A las-gun shot ricochets off your shield and destroys a chunk of wall, and you duck back down. It doesn't take you long to realize-- were it not for your shield, that shot would have hit you square in the back of the head. You stretch out your awareness--
[1] You cannot find them, and your head once again swims from the exertion.
Sarah is slumped in the rubble, a fragment of wood jutting from her bloody side. She's still breathing, and after a few hesitant moments, uses her cutter blade to cut the end off from the impaling piece of wood. She slips it back into her holster and picks up her rifle once more. She turns her head towards you, giving a nod.
Emma is nearby as well, conscious and with only a few soot stains on her clothes to show for the explosion. The barkeep is much the same way, looking increasingly shaken.
There are a few potshots directed at the building, and you can hear them splintering the wood outside, horribly inaccurate.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:03:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 11:12:51 pm
Inject the ballistic.
+1-- deploy our helmet too, if we haven't already. See if Lucille can pick up the location of these guys.
"Right... this isn't fun anymore. How long would it take to call in reinforcements from here?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:15:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 11:18:22 pm
[-] Silas presents you, one day, with a wide variety of combat drugs. Primarily stimulants, sleep medicine, and a few rapid function tranquilizers. "Your body already kills your pain receptors, so I figured uppers and downers would be all that you need. All designed to your unique biology. You'll grow immune to them, in time, however, so use them sparingly."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:18:59 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 11:25:05 pm
Emma glances down at her radio, looking surprised. She fiddles with the dial, glancing your way. "I need a squad of Thorntons where that explosion was!-- No. I don't [fucking] know the coordinates-- uh...a district on the edge of the outer city--"
The helmet reaches out, and you can see the heartbeat of...nineteen individuals, at the other end of the street, in various forms of cover. There's a solitary one, higher up, laying down while facing you.
[7+3 vs 16] A shot pings off your shield, and you crawl into better cover instinctively.
"Alphira!" Sarah calls from her cover, "I'm returning fire--" Emma kicks the rifle over to you, keeping low as she tips a table over, trying to coordinate the Thornton response.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:28:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 12, 2020, 11:32:02 pm
That's a lot. Use the SMG on the heartbeats.
+1
Keep to cover. Start with that sniper-- use the rifle off that guard instead, if we think it'll be more accurate.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 11:46:30 pm
[-] "I--I can't see them." Sarah breathes, slowly angling her rifle. "I can keep the sniper's --" A las-pulse cracks the wooden beam beside her, "I'll keep the sniper's head down if you tell me how high up."
You do so, grabbing the las-rifle and running a battle-ready check on it. "Go!" Sarah holds down the trigger on her las-rifle, shots lancing into the building in the distance, inaccurate.
Your shot goes wide as the Sniper's heartbeat begins to beat harder. It shifts, aiming towards Sarah--
[11 vs 14][4] Sarah's neck is burned away with a bright flash, leaving a gaping hole-- she drops her rifle, clutching at it. Then, she's still.
[12 vs 16+8] A hail of las-burst hits your shield, driving you back into cover.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 11:47:30 pm
"Sniper in the window!" Emma calls through the radio as the heartbeats in the distance stop one by one- An explosion rocks the street, and you dare a glance. The window is a flaming mess -- all collapsed concrete. The Warmachines are brutally efficient, having come up from the flank while the nineteen cultists were focused on you.
Las-gun pulses leave nothing more than dents in their armor, and they gun down all without mercy, leaving only one alive. The robed cultist is pinned to the ground roughly by a Warmachine's heavy foot. William breaks away from the fighting, approaching your position, actually wearing a helmet for once. "Your reinforcements have arrived, sisters."
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:55:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 12, 2020, 11:58:10 pm
By all means, if you think you have plot armor, give it a test-- the sequel I have planned doesn't have to be from Alphira's perspective. ;D
Post by: ZBridges on April 12, 2020, 11:58:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 12:07:25 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 12:12:22 am
Laugh. "Am I glad to see you lot! These goons, they caught me hungry... I need to start packing nutrient cubes or something."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 12:17:18 am
Anyway, we weren't dead yet. We had a shield charge left and everything!+1
Laugh. "Am I glad to see you lot! These goons, they caught me hungry... I need to start packing nutrient cubes or something."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 12:21:26 am
"Hey, bring Alphira some food. Lots of it." William orders the barkeep as the Thorntons advance on your position, keeping it covered from other threats. They drag the prisoner with them roughly, his robe pulled off, revealing the face of an unremarkable young man. He stares into the distance, even as William props him into a chair, taking a seat across from him.
The Barkeep, perhaps on autopilot, brings the entire pot of simmering stew out and sets it on the intact table. He drops the ladle and some bowls nearby and slumps into a seat. He cradles his head in his hands, breathing hard.
"What's wrong with that guy. Acts like he wasn't ever collateral damage before."
Emma takes a bowl of stew and drops to the ground, laying against the bar as she slowly eats. You-- you take the pot and slump down next to her, eating.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 12:36:03 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 12:41:50 am
"Yes..."
To the barkeep: "...I'm terribly sorry about all this, sir. I swear--" chuckle a little, nervously-- "I swear, I don't usually leave a trail of devastation everywhere I go."
...
Address the cultist. "I don't suppose you'd like to volunteer some information? If you are cooperative, you will not be harmed."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 12:50:10 am
She gently coaxes him into a conversation, and you leave the two at it.
William raises his brow at your declaration, grinning at you. Quietly, "I'm going to have call bullshit on that, Phebe."
The cultist looks up at you and--
[15-5 vs 13] "I..." The Cultist begins, "I don't...know--" You step closer to him, your willpower seeping into his bones, and he flinches again. "I thought I was doing the right thing." He finally whimpers, "That it would be destiny that...that you die here...but...that's wrong-because it didn't happen." The cultist reasons, tears dripping down his cheeks.
"What...what do you want to know?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:00:26 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 01:04:36 am
Speak gentle now, soothing. "I am not an unreasonable [angel]. You are a zealot. Very soon now, I will have need of zealots."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 01:13:21 am
"She...she says you're a [demon], here to corrupt the weak of heart with false promises, and that...the [Plague] is going to liberate us into paradise..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:16:47 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 01:21:45 am
"Where is your--" Your next question is answered by his eyes flicking to the street outside. "Right. Dead."
"Sorry Phebe. Restraint isn't in the Thornton dictionary." William offers, apologetically.
"Literally. Father had it edited out." Emma calls, breaking away from her conversation with the Barkeep to deliver the punchline. William grins, flashing a thumbs up to Emma, who sighs and shakes her head. The Keep looks a little bit less shocked, glaring daggers at the Cultist from where he sits.
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:25:08 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 01:29:52 am
"We've got a Guardian squad approaching from the North, William." A Warmachine calls into the rubble of the building. "Ten men, heavies. In cover, up the road. Orders? One is approaching."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:35:27 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 01:40:47 am
"William-- how much of the street got wrecked besides this pub?"
To the calling Warmachine: "Form up outside. I'll come and explain things."
To William again: "Best keep this one out of sight."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:48:15 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 01:50:40 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:54:47 am
If they see him, they'll probably want to take him.
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 01:57:36 am
Yeah, I'll edit that out.
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:58:24 am
Ah-hm, we maybe want to be present for this. The voice of an [angel] could make a difference here.+1
"William-- how much of the street got wrecked besides this pub?"
To the calling Warmachine: "Form up outside. I'll come and explain things."
To William again: "Best keep this one out of sight."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:00:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:01:59 am
"Uh...well, the street is filled with bodies, and there's a crater where I'm assuming a bomb went off, and we also shot a rocket to take care of that sniper," William responds. Emma trails behind you, following you out into the cold night.
The man stands on the lip of the crater, hands on his hips. He isn't carrying a weapon, but he stands opposing your Warmachines. Your willpower probes at his-- and finds steel there. A disciplined mind, full of willpower. The Guardian drops to his knees when he sees you-- but rises before you can give him leave, peeling off his helmet. "Well, Mother Alphira. What a circumstance to meet in!" Xavier Mack is smiling a wide, toothy smile at you, his long brown hair curled in a top-knot on his head.
His eyes linger on a Warmachine's red thorn with a brief intensity. "Interesting company you keep, too."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:21:51 am
Oh god good others see it too. I was worried I was hallucinating.
:P
Nod. "Xavier Mack, I take it? I am honored by your presence-- would that we might have met in more peaceable conditions."
Gesture to the slain. "These ones attempted to kill me. Two of my guards lie dead to their rifles."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:35:17 am
"Thick armor there. I'd have to be right up close to punch through it. Where's William? I see one blondie, but I don't see two." He ducks a nod to Emma, "Emeralda Thornton. I arrested your brother once. I wonder if I'll get the set tonight."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:52:32 am
...Emeralda?
Huh.
Anyway.
Bristle a little. "I should think not, [honorific]* Xavier-- but perhaps you might explain to me what our legal standing is at this time?"
*whatever's appropriate. Brother? Elder? Phoebe probably knows.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:58:07 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 03:12:18 am
Nod. "I 'blew up'-- er-- some of these. The first ten attackers or so."
"William's in what's left of the pub there."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 03:59:37 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 04:09:24 am
"Not really, no... was a suicide bomber, took out the front of the building here. These folks were dedicated."
Follow.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 12:52:41 pm
"Xavier. Wonderful to see you still alive."
"You almost sound disappointed! Did you get the card I sent you?"
"You mean Jackson?"
"Well having that many unlicensed, untaxed drugs is a capital offense."
"What can I do for you?" William responds bluntly, the smile faltering.
There's a stifled sob from somewhere below the Bartender. Xavier slowly walks over, taking a seat at a remaining stool. "Could you bring me a water, please? And open up the beer cellar while you're at it?"
[10 vs 7] "This bar is Thornton property." William calls out from where he sits, "As of five minutes ago. You cannot legally search it without our consent." He takes a sip of liquor, staring at Xavier.
"Covering your bases, I see. That's right -- unless a certain high ranking officer in the room allows me to." Xavier smiles at you over his water.
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 01:38:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 01:54:19 pm
I'd rather not surrender the captive, but if he makes us a good offer, I'd be willing to consider it.
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:06:24 pm
We don't necessarily have to surrender the captive-- not yet-- but given it's pretty clear to everyone here we have said captive, we might as well show we've nothing to hide yes?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 02:08:52 pm
What would he even offer us though-- what, but a chance to demonstrate that we've a care to the laws of this city? Legitimacy, remember? If we're to take this world for our own, we've got to maintain that facade of legitimacy.I uh, don’t know why we captured a person?
We don't necessarily have to surrender the captive-- not yet-- but given it's pretty clear to everyone here we have said captive, we might as well show we've nothing to hide yes?
Did he stop trying to kill us?
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:10:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:10:50 pm
William beams a smile, "The Montblanc Family can suck it."
"Quite, although you taking that as a compliment annoys me to no end." Xavier is returning William's smile. "There's dozens of dead low lives out there, two craters I can see so far from heavy explosives..."
"Why, to me, this quite looks like a gang war. Angel or not, that isn't pretty. I'm sure whoever is whimpering like a puppy beneath the floor there can clear things up." Xavier finishes, "And I don't have to take the whole lot of you into protective custody."
With a glance to William, "SEED forbid, but on the off chance William did something good, maybe I can help."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:14:18 pm
"William, show him the captive."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:17:36 pm
"William, show him the captive."
+1
To Xavier now: "The Warmachines managed to take prisoner one of those would-be assassins. Have a care with him, if you would-- I told him he'd come to no harm for his cooperation, and I don't make such promises lightly."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 13, 2020, 02:22:43 pm
"This is need to know only, but you seem to care about this city. I interrogated a dying attacker in a way only I can. He did not survive the process. He was a member of a doomsday cult seeking to serve the [demons] and let the plague INTO THE CITY. They can not know we are onto them, so it can not be in the report. Here is what I do know and I need your help to find them with the resources you have."
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:24:30 pm
No need for that.+1
"This is need to know only, but you seem to care about this city. I interrogated a dying attacker in a way only I can. He did not survive the process. He was a member of a doomsday cult seeking to serve the [demons] and let the plague INTO THE CITY. They can not know we are onto them, so it can not be in the report. Here is what I do know and I need your help to find them with the resources you have."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:26:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:28:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:31:12 pm
Can we not just be honest about what went down here? Everything that happened here was (to my knowledge) legal-- we really don't have anything to hide right now. It's quite clear to all concerned we've got a prisoner.
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:33:40 pm
He could easily suffer an "accident" while in custody and not have the ability to give us more information.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:39:13 pm
"I'm guessing a week or so to investigate...maybe longer, then maybe we can think about releasing you from it."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 02:41:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:43:01 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 13, 2020, 02:49:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 02:51:13 pm
"Can I see William's and Emma's contracts? As I am sure you are aware, a Military Tribunal is far harsher than a Civilian Court." Emma produces her contract, after a moment of hesitation. "If I'm not mistaken, the punishments for misuse of military assets for personal gain are all capital punishments."
He glances at the paper in Emma's hand, noting the seal, then turning towards William. "Your's next, if you please."
William looks annoyed, "I don't have a contract, Xavier."
"Oh! Wonderful. Then I can actually arrest you." Xavier rises, producing a pair of cuffs from his belt-- you notice he doesn't have a gun.
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 02:52:50 pm
"There is no need. I apologize... I got carried away. We will cooperate."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 03:02:55 pm
"You chose the hard way. You chose to lie to me. So, as a consequence, the entire damn city is going to know that you were escorted back to your compound by me. And [angel] or not, I will drag your skinny ass back to your compound. I will haul Emeralda off to the military brig, and I'll haul William off to the worst fucking pit I can find--"
Xavier breathes out a heavy sigh, nostrils flaring, "Then I'll interrogate the bartender. Post a guard around this building. I can't haul off your boys, but I can put enough Guardians here that if they try to take someone away, Guardians will die. The Thornton's rights will be revoked, and they'll be treated as an enemy of the state."
"In one move, I can dismantle sixty percent of the damn drug trade in this city, and show the city what you think of the law. Why the -fuck- shouldn't I?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 03:10:04 pm
"...William? Bring up the cultist. Can't very well interrogate him ourselves if we're being hauled off to the penitentiary, hm?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 03:14:48 pm
"Hell, if he starts screaming, that's enough cause."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 03:20:08 pm
Cooperate
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 03:22:54 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 03:25:44 pm
Cooperate's all well and good, but we're about to lose face and get our crooked compatriots jailed simultaneously. Cooperate doesn't work right now.Som do we kill him?
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 03:25:56 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 03:28:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 03:40:01 pm
[10] "You're going to apologize to me and my men for bullshitting us. I'm also going to be looking through the Guardian's Widows and Pension fund, and I better see an anonymous donation from two people in this room. Fifty credits or more. Legal channels."
"And that apology better be damn good, Mother Alphira, because you seriously pissed me off tonight. I expected more from you than this." Xavier takes his seat, scratching at the stubble on his chin, "I hoped I could respect you, but you've acted little better than some random thug on the street."
"After that apology, I'll listen to your captive."
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 04:03:37 pm
Sigh, nod. "You'll have your apology. Will you be calling in your men, or am I to go out to them?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 04:30:19 pm
"Get the fuck up." Xavier barks, sharply, and after a hesitant glance between the two of you, they rise to their feet.
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 05:41:11 pm
"Officers-- it seems I've some bitter words to offer you." Briefly explain the situation.
"I thought to set myself above the law. I thought to conceal information from your commanding officer. In so doing, I have disgraced myself before SEED. I have acted as--" smile thin; glance askance-- "what was it you called me, Xavier? A 'random thug'?"
"I apologize for my misconduct this night. I will not disrespect your forces thus in future."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 05:49:12 pm
Right... this is gonna hurt a bit. ::)+1 I just hope they don’t send the cult after us, wait, was he part of the cult?
"Officers-- it seems I've some bitter words to offer you." Briefly explain the situation.
"I thought to set myself above the law. I thought to conceal information from your commanding officer. In so doing, I have disgraced myself before SEED. I have acted as--" smile thin; glance askance-- "what was it you called me, Xavier? A 'random thug'?"
"I apologize for my misconduct this night. I will not disrespect your forces thus in future."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 05:59:29 pm
"...good." Xavier relaxes, turning towards his confused squad, "If I hear -any- of those words leaked to anybody, you all get punished. We clear? Good. Go back to picking up corpses." The squad, more confused than ever, files out. The bartender hauls the cultist out of the beer cellar, and he looks a little worse for the wear, for the ordeal, but still unharmed. The Bartender drops the young man atop the bar rather roughly, but the cultist doesn't complain.
"I would like you to be gentle on him. I gave my word he wouldn't be harmed." You explain to Xavier.
Xavier nods, pulling the young man down into the seat and cutting his bonds. He pushes the glass of water over with a, "Drink, you got a lot of singing to do." And sing the young man does, explaining his name, everything that happened, how he became a part of the cult, so on. His name, as you come to find out, is Jack [X, no surname]. He's the son of a debt-slave stationed in the area.
"You were telling the truth. I'd apologize, only I'm not sorry." Xavier offers your way. "So, we got a powerful cult in the hotbed of sedition in all of SEED. That's like lighting a match next to gunpowder. I don't know where she is, but I can have some of my Guardians start looking for her. DOubt I have the forces to take on two hundred fanatics, though. Military will have to be called in." Xavier gives a significant glance in your direction.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 06:17:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 06:49:32 pm
"Keep the captive. Some of my men may have sympathy, and I have better things to do than babysit." He pauses, looking over at you, "Unless you know anything else about the location of these cultists? Or have a better idea?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 06:52:04 pm
If we have them, give 60 credits to Xavier
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 06:58:50 pm
"I've a couple people I might be able to poke for information... I'll let you know what I find. Other than that, you know as much as I do."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 07:23:57 pm
Xavier grunts, lifting a hand in a goodbye wave as he leaves the ruins of the building. Four Guardians return to haul out the corpses of your two guards, and you're left there in silence.
"So that's the famous Xavier Mack." Emma finally breaks the silence, glancing to William, who nods.
"Why do we have a standing bounty protecting his family again?"
"Do you want that bastard unhinged?"
You slump into a seat, breathing a sigh.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 13, 2020, 08:04:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 13, 2020, 08:25:49 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 13, 2020, 10:40:46 pm
"That was embarrassing-- I haven't had to swallow my pride so hard since Rodstadt. Will of cast iron, that one's got."
...
Sigh. "Anyway. We'd best get Jack here back to compound, rest for the morning... do you know where you want to set your Warmachines for the night, William?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 13, 2020, 10:53:10 pm
"And yeah...that was painful to watch." Emma shakes her head, "And he's not easy to intimidate like the Pontifex...man walks around with no gun for a reason, I guess."
William scowls, tossing a wad of bills over to Emma as well. "SEED, I've paid for more widows and orphans than I've made. I need to get like, a discount or something. Like the commercial ships do -- kill two Guardians, the third is free!" He shakes his head, rising up and pulling a document from his pocket, tossing it over to you. "Here! Happy Birthday."
"Wh-what?" You stutter, confused. "I don't have a--" Its the deed to the bar, one Michael's Public House. The Bartender's eyes go wide, but he doesn't say anything, rubbing at his forehead. You assume he's Michael.
"Damages have already been paid for. Our new friend there is going to make this place Warmachine accessible...as for that, when you recover from this, radio your orders. Emma mentioned something about new recruits and laborers? We haven't got the 'factory' set up yet." William leans over on the bar, snagging one of the intact bottles of vodka, "Didn't you say you were going to get permission to start using SEED supplies?"
"Working on it. Where are you setting your Warmachines, anyways?" You change the topic, still confused about the deed.
"We've got a barracks set up in a warehouse, right next to the smuggler's pad we use. We're setting up our Warmachine factory nearby that. I've been buying up all the property I can find around that section, to give us better control."
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 02:47:26 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 09:26:47 am
Four Guardians return to haul out the corpses of your two guards, and you're left there in silence.
Nod. "Perfect; I'll meet with those recruits early tomorrow, then, and escort them your way. Didn't get exact numbers, but we had a pretty good crowd assembled-- should be enough to get the ball rolling."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 11:13:10 am
"Phebe? Is there anything you want me to do on that front?" Emma asks, idly. "I could start seeing what resources SEED has for production, and what we can divert to the radio towers and Warmachines."
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 12:14:09 pm
"That'd be perfect though. If we nationalize this project, really draw from what the City has to offer... we could field these machines in battalions. A force fit to match a horde of [insects], one on one."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 14, 2020, 12:18:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 01:32:56 pm
"Yeah. A lot of things seem petty when you have eternity in front of you." Emma opines, and William grunts in agreement to both statements.
"That is the plan." William murmurs. "Anything else you need from me, Lady Pheobe, or am I good to go?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 02:24:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 14, 2020, 02:25:59 pm
"...A couple guards, maybe, to keep watch at the compound. After tonight, I find I trust Thornton machinery rather more than Crusader infantry for such work."why de we italicizing? It seems unnecessary to place emphasis on any words in particular
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 02:26:52 pm
"...A couple guards, maybe, to keep watch at the compound. After tonight, I find I trust Thornton machinery rather more than Crusader infantry for such work."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 02:31:16 pm
why de we italicizing? It seems unnecessary to place emphasis on any words in particular
Just my attempt to put to text the vocal inflection natural to such speech. A stylistic choice, nothing more.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 03:19:34 pm
"I'll send a squad. Not these ones, however. They'll need down time." William pauses, "Give them an hour to get here, or a few if you're walking back to the compound first."
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 05:01:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 05:02:15 pm
That works tho.
"I think I'd better take shelter here and wait for those guards to arrive. Thanks again, Billy. You're literally a lifesaver. "
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 05:34:25 pm
"And yeah, I know it. Call me if you need anything." William flashes a smile, and walks out into the city streets alone, hunching down and slipping his hands into his coat. He passes out of vision without a glance back, and you and Emma wait alone. You and Emma sit, chat, and eat, and the bartender shows you his books. It doesn't make much in terms of profit, especially after his salary. He reckons the bar will make about [+.25 credits] in profit, per month.
Emma's radio emits a small chime, and she lifts it to her ear. She listens intently, quietly, then stows the radio, reporting in a cold monotone, despite the grin, "First target down. Iyal is alive. There wasn't collateral. Two lost on her side, but don't get choked up: investment recovered. Clean getaway."
[15] The Thornton reinforcements arrive, and the captain of that group dips a respectful nod to you and Emma, the only defining feature is the red band across the top of their helmet. The voice is feminine, however, "We're ready when you are." A frightened technician trails behind her, with Mitch's leash in her hand. Mitch doesn't seem to mind, dragging her to the drying puddle of blood to lap at it.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 05:47:25 pm
...she better not get caught.
Grab Mitch, and let's head back to compound. We'll want to see to the burial proceedings of our slain guards once we arrive, and to find out who's taking over as captain.
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 05:49:17 pm
Our little assassin! I'm so proud.+1
...she better not get caught.
Grab Mitch, and let's head back to compound. We'll want to see to the burial proceedings of our slain guards once we arrive, and to find out who's taking over as captain.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 06:04:07 pm
[-]The morale in your guard unit...is glum, to say the least. Two captains have died in the span of a month. Rumors and superstition will no doubt spread about the position.
[?] The second in command, now acting commander until such a time that the Council convenes and picks another, is one Jennifer Shatterly. You meet in the morgue, and she drops to a bow in front of you. "Mother--" She hesitates, glancing at Emma, "Mother Pheobe. Its an honor to meet you. I'm Jennifer Shatterly, Acting Captain of your personal guard." She glances at the corpse of Sarah, her wound stitched together, a pretty collar of fabric hiding the hole in her neck. "I didn't know Sarah well. She just transferred in, but its a shame to lose someone nonetheless."
Emma's radio chimes and she listens to it. "Earlier reports were wrong, Pheobe. One credit collateral."
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 06:18:56 pm
"I'd say it's nice to meet you, captain, but under the circumstances I'm afraid that would be a lie. Do you have any suggestions for improving morale and preventing further deaths in the personal guard?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 06:39:34 pm
"Granted."
[14] "This posting was...was considered baby-sitting duty. A lot of young Crusaders, fresh off the killing fields of whatever Outland war they were in, signed up because they thought no one would have bothered to try and kill you."Jennifer shrugs, picking at the edges of her helmet nervously. "They weren't expecting actual combat. Our faith will hold, as Crusader's faith has held many times before, but..." Once again she shrugs, "I don't think they were ready to go back to war with people so soon."
Jennifer sighs, "In my honest opinion? Replace them all with those more willing to accept a las-blast death. There's no shortage of vetrans itching to get off the front. To them, a las-blast in the neck is better than a scratch that turns you into a man-eating monster in your tent camp."
[20] With a glance toward's Sarah's corpse, she continues, "We're prettily heavily armored, for our posting, but I've been hearing word of even heavier armor being developed. Not Thornton cybernetics, but bulkier gear, designed for riots and the like. If you're in charge of SEED's military, you could try that." Without a trace of humor or irony, she continues, "It apparently comes with armored gorgets. Heavier assault rifles, maybe even specialized soldiers in squads."
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 06:53:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 07:24:56 pm
What now? And what are your plans for tomorrow?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 07:41:37 pm
To Jennifer: "Dismissed. Thank you."
Rest up as best we may. See to it that Emma does the same-- take shifts with the radio, if we feel the need. Tomorrow morning, we make one last check-in with Iyal... then, if the news on that front proves acceptable, we call in the generals.
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 07:42:17 pm
Nod. "We can worry about that later, then."+1
To Jennifer: "Dismissed. Thank you."
Rest up as best we may. See to it that Emma does the same-- take shifts with the radio, if we feel the need. Tomorrow morning, we make one last check-in with Iyal... then, if the news on that front prove acceptable, we call in the generals.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 14, 2020, 08:04:40 pm
+1Nod. "We can worry about that later, then."+1
To Jennifer: "Dismissed. Thank you."
Rest up as best we may. See to it that Emma does the same-- take shifts with the radio, if we feel the need. Tomorrow morning, we make one last check-in with Iyal... then, if the news on that front prove acceptable, we call in the generals.
She mentioned da q credit callateral, we should probably pay for the fixing of whatever was broken
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 08:09:22 pm
You glance at the headline and Emma's smirking face. "We've got a two for one deal." She explains, passing you a napkin and stealing a piece of dried apple from your bowl. You glance down at the newspaper while you eat -- 'Crusader Officers killed: Suspected Gang Involvement.'
...Monica Colgan, General Hardy's assistant and presumed heir and George Montblanc, a petty officer with family ties to the Montblanc Business Family, were found dead early this morning, in front of a well-known gang's, The Slum Barkers, hideout. Both were suspected killed in a retaliatory strike by another gang. No arrests have been made as of yet, but questions persist about what Crusader Officers were doing there...
...one incident in a series of violent events that ripped through the suburbs...
...General Hardy could not be reached for comment...
"Iyal is sleeping-- her definition of fine is similar to ours. I had to wrest the fact that she got shot in the arm from her." Emma leans into you, breathing out a sigh. "We got to get to work. I'll take a few Warmachines with me while doing my duties, and you have to go and escort those Crusader Veterans to William."
She leans in for a kiss, and her perfume is almost too pleasant-- it smells of mountain flowers and a slight smokiness. Emma winks, rising up and leaving you with your breakfast. "I told the captain of the Warmachine Squad to function as your radio operator." Emma calls as she leaves.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 08:17:34 pm
Anyhoo, we'd best be off to that meeting point of ours. I'd forgotten about escort duty!
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 14, 2020, 08:20:07 pm
Nice, Iyal managed to frame things as an unrelated gang killing. That one knows what she's about... shame about her arm. We'd best let her rest up.meeting time, +1
Anyhoo, we'd best be off to that meeting point of ours. I'd forgotten about escort duty!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 08:31:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 08:33:46 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 14, 2020, 08:40:30 pm
You shower and change into an identical uniform, then pause as you linger by Lucille. Are you wearing your armor, today?Yes, wear the armor
Hmm. Is there any reason not to?nope
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 08:40:41 pm
+1You shower and change into an identical uniform, then pause as you linger by Lucille. Are you wearing your armor, today?Yes, wear the armorHmm. Is there any reason not to?nope
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 08:44:28 pm
Hmm. Is there any reason not to?
Not... not to my knowledge? It could've gone rogue overnight, I guess. Or someone could've trapped it somehow. Lots of weird stuff out there we could worry about.
Yes, wear the armor+1
+1
Start with the gauntlet, don the rest if Lucille doesn't start screaming at us or something.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 08:57:00 pm
You shuck your uniform and put on your underlay, slipping into the rough fabric and plastic outfit. Next you put on the harder pieces of armor first, then the more easy one. With every piece securely strapped to your person, you attempt to manipulate the silicon bonds within the tip of the glove--
And they don't work. You sigh, trying again, and this time, the needles come out, piercing your flesh down to the bone. The pain, at this point, is a welcome reminder that you're human. [Good Morning, Sadil.]
[16]You do know you can adjust what she calls you, her name and all those other preferences, right? Like, she's fully customizable.
[5]You think it over as you walk out of your compound, three Guards and four Warmachines at your back as you approach the square...and there's no one there. Only a figure, hunched against a post. It's still alive, you note, but you hesitate to approach. No need to worry, however, because it rises, shucking off her hood to smile and bow at you. Its a thin blond, with a scarred face, missing an arm. "It was al little dangerous to gather, we figure, so I was going to wait until you arrived."
Whitney Carter, you remember Emma briefing you, takes another bow, and begins to rouse the people from their homes, and soon the street is crowded with the crippled soldiers. Many of them bow, and all seem to be in better spirits-- far more sober, too!
Anything to say or would you like to proceed?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 09:00:48 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 14, 2020, 09:05:19 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 09:11:36 pm
[Disable attraction to the user. Enable all helpful hints. Enable commanding officer proximity alert. Set username to 'Phoebe.']
Post by: Superdorf on April 14, 2020, 09:35:35 pm
...attraction to the user? Empyreals have strange priorities.
It gets lonely I guess, drifting about the void between worlds.
I've been meaning to ask: it's been over 48 hours now since we first discovered Bird of Sol's Reign, yes?
Aw nice, we can turn off the creepy-lover voice? This changes... so much.
[Disable attraction to the user. Enable all helpful hints. Enable commanding officer proximity alert. Set username to 'Phoebe.']
+1
Is it just me, or is McCreary's dust fading from our bloodstream? We're forgetting how to work the silicon...
Smile. "Whitney Carter, yes? Thank you for arranging this."
To the group now: "Good morning-- I am honored to have you all here! Let us march now with pride: we, who bear the future of this world."
Off we go!
Post by: ZBridges on April 14, 2020, 09:53:07 pm
+1...attraction to the user? Empyreals have strange priorities.
It gets lonely I guess, drifting about the void between worlds.
I've been meaning to ask: it's been over 48 hours now since we first discovered Bird of Sol's Reign, yes?
Aw nice, we can turn off the creepy-lover voice? This changes... so much.[Disable attraction to the user. Enable all helpful hints. Enable commanding officer proximity alert. Set username to 'Phoebe.']
+1
Is it just me, or is McCreary's dust fading from our bloodstream? We're forgetting how to work the silicon...
Smile. "Whitney Carter, yes? Thank you for arranging this."
To the group now: "Good morning-- I am honored to have you all here! Let us march now with pride: we, who bear the future of this world."
Off we go!
Post by: King Zultan on April 15, 2020, 08:25:59 am
+1+1...attraction to the user? Empyreals have strange priorities.
It gets lonely I guess, drifting about the void between worlds.
I've been meaning to ask: it's been over 48 hours now since we first discovered Bird of Sol's Reign, yes?
Aw nice, we can turn off the creepy-lover voice? This changes... so much.[Disable attraction to the user. Enable all helpful hints. Enable commanding officer proximity alert. Set username to 'Phoebe.']
+1
Is it just me, or is McCreary's dust fading from our bloodstream? We're forgetting how to work the silicon...
Smile. "Whitney Carter, yes? Thank you for arranging this."
To the group now: "Good morning-- I am honored to have you all here! Let us march now with pride: we, who bear the future of this world."
Off we go!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 02:41:48 pm
Have you've been training with it? Alphira retorts, Or have you've been laying in bed for two months while other people work around you?
"It's my honor Mother Alphira. I apologize for the wait." Whitney nods as the last person falls into the crowd. You lead them down the cobbled streets of the suburbs, approaching the Thornton District. A Warmachine halts your approach, asking you to wait in the plaza before the cargo ship. So you patiently do.
William is roused, stretching out and stifling a yawn, a red greatcoat haphazardly slung over his shoulder. His uniform, besides that, you note, after a brief inspection, is in perfect order. Down to the millimeter, as SEED military requires. He sniffs, looking over the group with something approaching disinterest.
"I was told you were soldiers. All I see is a mob! Form up for inspection!" William barks, dropping the playboy persona. The Veterans blink, rapidly forming up into a honed military line. William walks down in silence, prowling like a beast of prey. With a nod. "Acceptable. Now listen closely."
"You are going to be outfitted like this fine gentleman here!" He gestures to a bare-chested Warmachine, who's massive cybernetic limbs are displayed in all their glory, including the metallic spine implants. "This process is not reversible! Due to the war," He peels off a glove, revealing his metallic hand, "Attachments like these will not be available! So help us win this damn fight, and I'll see to it you get a ninety percent discount to buying these. Damn generous, for something so normally expensive. Save your pay if you want a normal life after all this shit, right?"
The Veterans dip their heads in a nod. Five, however, take one look at the Warmachine, glancing at you, and leave. William watches them go without a word, turning to the rest. "Next order! The surgery is painful and -long-. You may die, and if you don't die, then you might suffer from infections and other nastiness. SEED's release is available as an option if these complications result! You will sign a contract stating that you are doing this of your own free will!"
"If you think it gets easier from there, your wrong! This is a military operation, and I expect you to be better than you were with the Crusaders; Drunkenness, dereliction of duty-- these will not be tolerated! Debt-slavery is going to be a preferable option to the things we'll do to you if you screw up here." Thirteen more glances to William, and then back to the Warmachine, and they slowly step away.
"We'll be going into combat with all manners of Infected, along with any enemies of the state as deemed by Lady Alphira. This armor helps with protecting you from the worst of it-- your limbs can be easily detached, without harming you, and we can replace them, but torso wounds will still result in SEED's release!"
No one else leaves. Leaving you with-- [thirty individuals], including Whitney Carter.
"Good. Captain Remial will guide you into proper orientation and get your paperwork squared away. Dismissed!"
They file away behind a red-striped Warmachine, and William slumps, approaching you. "I expected more to leave, Phebe. We really need that funding, especially if we're to pay these people anything to live on."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 02:51:24 pm
"I will make sure that you receive it. What amount of credits do you need over what period of time? Alternatively, would raw materiel suffice?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 02:53:51 pm
It looks like the cohesion was fixed.People get paid in credits, not raw materials
"I will make sure that you receive it. What amount of credits do you need over what period of time?Alternatively, would raw material suffice?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 02:55:49 pm
The material can be sold on the market to produce extra credits.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 03:00:49 pm
It looks like the cohesion was fixed.+1
"I will make sure that you receive it. What amount of credits do you need over what period of time? Alternatively, would raw materiel suffice?"
Usually when I hear “Asking for A, will B suffice?” I think it’s “Will B suffice in lieu of A”
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 03:03:01 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 03:07:00 pm
That's what I meant, they or we could sell material to produce credits instead of just providing the actual credits, or we could potentially provide both. Sorry for not being clear.it’s ok, let’s try for both credits and materials when contacting SEED
Have we attempted nationalization of production yet? If not, let’s attempt that
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 03:08:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 03:09:39 pm
Mistakes addressed
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 03:44:51 pm
"Going to be honest with you, now, Pheobe, I was hoping for as much as possible, so I could skim some off the top to refill the Thornton Treasury." William admits, grinning, "I'll send a craft to pick up some accountants, but if we're talking about budgets -- how long do you want us to operate? Are we a war-time emergency or are we a business you want in perpetuity?"
"Current operations, off the top of my head, are costing the Thornton Family...two hundred credits a month, for four Warmachines to be produced, per month. That's including their pay and pension and board."
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 03:52:45 pm
"I think we should limit production to wartime, or at least we should plan to do so for the moment. If there's a good reason to prolong production, and if we're not all dead, we can discuss this further after the war ends."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 04:03:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 04:06:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 04:07:33 pm
"Perhaps we can put those factories and personnel to better use when this conflict is finished, so that many of your assets can be profitably retained. For now, I will ensure that you receive as much funding as possible."After saying this, contact SEED about the funding
Post by: Superdorf on April 15, 2020, 05:08:34 pm
"Perhaps we can put those factories and personnel to better use when this conflict is finished, so that many of your assets can be profitably retained. For now, I will ensure that you receive as much funding as possible."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 06:10:48 pm
"Anything else you might need, Pheobe?"
"Lady-- Pheobe?" The Warmachine Captain glances between you and William, then at the guards. "May I speak to you in private?"
You nod your assent, stepping away from the Crusader Guards. The Captain pulls off her helmet, leaning down to murmur in your ear, "Outlander has informed me that Lauren Lee has met in an untimely end while investigating a gang within the suburbs. An anonymous tip gone wrong, I'm afraid. She was alone."
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 06:27:35 pm
To the captain: "Thank you for letting me know. I don't think we've been formally introduced yet, by the way."
Meeting time, I think.
Post by: Superdorf on April 15, 2020, 06:32:34 pm
To William: "Nothing else, William. Thank you for your support."
To the captain: "Thank you for letting me know. I don't think we've been formally introduced yet, by the way."
Meeting time, I think.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 06:57:36 pm
You thought you recognized her, with her long, curly brown hair and the angular face. "I am acting Captain of the Third Thorton Warmachine Squad, and Defender of Miles Village." She straightens, slipping her helmet back on, voice stiff. "That was all, Lady Pheobe?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 07:14:14 pm
We still haven't dealt with the special ops person, but otherwise I think we're where we want to be for the meeting.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 08:04:13 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 08:09:24 pm
"The meeting should be held in a Thornton-owned building, or an open and defensible Church-owned building if they object, with around 30 warmachines openly guarding, if we can spare them. Do provide food and drink, and prepare an optional meal we can present to the attendees later, if necessary, with an appropriately odorless and tasteless poison, if possible. Obviously, don't mention the poison to SEED."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 15, 2020, 08:11:35 pm
Here's my proposal for that:this is proposal to tell SEED, let’s not ask for a poison
"The meeting should be held in a Thornton-owned building, or an open and defensible Church-owned building if they object, with around 30 warmachines openly guarding, if we can spare them. Do provide food and drink, and prepare an optional meal we can present to the attendees later, if necessary."
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 08:14:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 08:46:34 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 08:48:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 08:50:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 08:52:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 15, 2020, 08:57:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 15, 2020, 09:04:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 15, 2020, 11:38:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 01:17:13 am
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 01:22:13 am
Go eat and try to requisition either nutrient cubes or some other calorie-dense portable food.
Post by: King Zultan on April 16, 2020, 07:38:37 am
"Thanks, Emma. No further communication is necessary at this time, Captain Thornton."+1
Go eat and try to requisition either nutrient cubes or some other calorie-dense portable food.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 12:28:13 pm
You wander through the town at a leisurely pace, returning to your compound. After a brief discussion with a guard, you are taken to a small room being used as a warehouse. On it is a pack of silver foil wrapped nutrient cubes. You take ten, shoving them away in your satchel.
"Two days." Faith states, out of the blue. "It will take Emma two days, but she'll let you know when and where when she gets back tonight.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 16, 2020, 12:35:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 01:50:06 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 02:02:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 16, 2020, 02:11:27 pm
Let's do it.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 04:19:15 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 04:34:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 07:04:07 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 07:06:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 07:08:56 pm
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 07:10:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 09:20:11 pm
[SEED's Orders for the Execution of Crusader General Hardy]. You browse through the file, shocked and surprised-- apparently SEED really doesn't like being lied to. You hand it back to Emma, who grins at your reaction. "I get you the best gifts, don't I?"
You return the smile over your [beast of burden] stew, picking at the tender braised meat and winter vegetables, stewed in red wine and heaped over freshly cooked grainmeal. There's a touch too much salt for your liking, but its filling, and tastes slightly of smokey pine resin. You drain your glass of wine, setting it on the dish table in the cafeteria. You and Emma retire to your bedroom--
You awaken in the morning to Emma tossing your underlay at you. "Hey, come on sleepy head. You got a hovercraft to catch." You grumble, rising to shower, letting the warm water wash over your skin. You feel hesitant, concerned, but duty calls, and you dress. Emma, in a state of undress, helps you put your armor on, planting a kiss on your cheek before slipping your helmet on. "You better be careful, Phe-Phe."
You step into the hovercraft as it lifts off. The door shuts behind you and you take a seat across from the Warmachine Captain. "We're going to touch down a bit away from the front and march to it. You didn't specify what part of the front, so we're going to the closest section. We'll touch down there at the command station, march to the front. It'll probably take us about an hour after we land." You nod. "We've got a full squad here-- we couldn't take the bigger ship, though, and we still have to defend Emma and William."
An hour of peace follows, as you lounge in the smooth flying vehicle. It comes down to land in the center of the Command Camp for Region Three. Immediately, the sounds of artillery fill your ears, and you turn to the west as you step out of the craft, watching as fire blooms across a sinking quagmire of a wasteland. Las-blasts fill the air, visible in the fog and smoke that drift across the plains. You can see abominations in the distance, Insects supporting them, along with many more twisted forms you've never seen before -- but they're definitely less than an hour away. Wounded missing limbs are streaming from the front, cradling burnt stumps.
[20] An officer goes shock still when he sees you, dropping to his knees. "Lady Alphira. Our prayers are answered!" He begins to weep -- in relief when the squad of Warmachines form up on you. "Crusader Major Eric is holding the front while we retreat, we need all th-"
[1] An explosion wipes away a tent, nearby, and the officer is knocked over by the concussion as you and the Warmachines brace yourself against the blast...Bodies lie in the wreckage-- and the officer has a large chunk of metal sticking out of him that was not there before.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 09:29:03 pm
Try to stabilize the officer and the nearby men and women. Inject the hopeless with sleeping medicine to ease their passing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 09:35:18 pm
[10 vs 12] You're not going to have enough medicine-- you duck down as another shell from the Infected line whizzes overhead, exploding into the field behind you haphazardly. Another Infected shell blows away another tent in a sudden explosion of flame, wiping it away as you hesitate-- Crusaders scream as they die, choking on their blood. The Hovercrafts suddenly lift-off, your captain kneeling in to scream as the Warmachines hit the deck, "They cannot stay, otherwise we don't have a ride back! We need to do something Lady Pheobe! We're not fucking medics!" All around you the shells continue to rain down, as the Infected bombard the command center. The artillery in the distance gives retort in kind, flaming shells blowing through the enemy lines.
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 09:37:27 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 16, 2020, 09:51:41 pm
Er, what's it take to recharge our shield belt?
Loud voice still: "Fall back. We'll figure out how to approach this mess once we're out of the line of fire."
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 09:55:06 pm
Uhh yeah. Bad.+1
Er, what's it take to recharge our shield belt?
Loud voice still: "Fall back. We'll figure out how to approach this mess once we're out of the line of fire."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 10:04:39 pm
[16 vs 16] The Warmachines begin to pull back, never completely turning their back to the front. They wrap you in a protective circle of bodies. A shell explodes nearby as you make your way out of the artillery strike, but the metal fragments bounce off the Thorton's armor. Eventually, you can tell that the shells are definitely landing behind you within the camp, as the Medics have set up a triage station a little further east. A few more make it out of the ruined camp behind you, pulling along the injured-- sometimes pulling along the dead as well.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 10:06:29 pm
Would it be possible to fly above the range of the shells and get clear shots at the enemy artillery without extreme personal danger?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 11:10:10 pm
Unfortunately, nothing in battle is without extreme personal danger. You shake your head, snapping out of your brief reverie -- you could almost see the firing lines, how to avoid all off the artillery fire that might be angled upward towards you at a moment's notice. The small arms fire is the real danger, especially with how flashy our wings are.
Post by: Superdorf on April 16, 2020, 11:12:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 11:16:42 pm
"What's the plan?" The Captain asks, squinting into the middle distance, where the lines of combatants meet in a bloody exchange of las-gun blasts and cutter blades.
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 11:18:44 pm
Is it a cloudy day?
Post by: Superdorf on April 16, 2020, 11:21:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 11:22:11 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 11:23:50 pm
Could we hit targets from our regular flying distance?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2020, 11:40:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2020, 11:43:01 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 12:06:05 am
On the one hand, I'd feel silly shunting them to the sidelines. On the other... things could go sideways fast out there, and I feel like William would be rightly upset if we spent Thornton life on what was (originally) a spur-of-the-moment excursion. Gotta be careful about this.
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 12:10:40 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 01:05:25 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 01:16:54 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 17, 2020, 07:52:52 am
As for a plan I have no idea.
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 11:01:35 am
"So all the lights in the sky are our enemies now? Let's show them what we can do! We'll wring them from existence!"
And you do, lashing out with your powers into the guns, into the weapons, into the targeting mainframe. The light blinds those who cannot see your glory as you unfurl lashing wings of fire to sweep through those specks of light that dare approach. You burn through the void, a raging inferno of hydrogen fire and electrical storms that threatens to devour anything that approaches.
"Good job, Alphira."
We don't have our predecessor's equipment, but perhaps we can draw inspiration from the way she fought. We hurtle through the ranks of the enemy in a rolling Inferno: lashing out as we plunge, obscuring our position with the fire that surrounds us. In and out, up and down. Maybe we take out a few reactors with Overloads while we're at it.
For now...
"...This fight's bigger than us. We're almost certainly going to lose ground here today-- our job now's to minimize the lives lost in the retreat."
Unfurl our wings-- raw fire, so's not to strain our flesh overmuch. "I'm going to try and draw away some of that artillery fire, maybe wreck a few bugs while I'm at it. You nine will be covering the troops as they pull out: keep the retreat from becoming a rout; gun down any foe that gets too close. Watch for artillery. Exercise your better judgement. Fall back if you must. Your own lives take priority."
"Any objections?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 17, 2020, 11:03:53 am
Remember this?No objections, Let's do the things we are talking about doing"So all the lights in the sky are our enemies now? Let's show them what we can do! We'll wring them from existence!"
And you do, lashing out with your powers into the guns, into the weapons, into the targeting mainframe. The light blinds those who cannot see your glory as you unfurl lashing wings of fire to sweep through those specks of light that dare approach. You burn through the void, a raging inferno of hydrogen fire and electrical storms that threatens to devour anything that approaches.
"Good job, Alphira."
We don't have our predecessor's equipment, but perhaps we can draw inspiration from the way she fought. We hurtle through the ranks of the enemy in a rolling Inferno: lashing out as we plunge, obscuring our position with the fire that surrounds us. In and out, up and down. Maybe we take out a few reactors with Overloads while we're at it.
For now...
"...This fight's bigger than us. We're almost certainly going to lose ground here today-- our job now's to minimize the lives lost in the retreat."
Unfurl our wings-- raw fire, so's not to strain our flesh overmuch. "I'm going to try and draw away some of that artillery fire, maybe wreck a few bugs while I'm at it. You nine will be covering the troops as they pull out: keep the retreat from becoming a rout; gun down any foe that gets too close. Watch for artillery. Exercise your better judgement. Fall back if you must. Your own lives take priority."
"Any objections?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 11:05:35 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 17, 2020, 11:07:25 am
Momentarily! Just hearing from the mercenaries first.The more we wait, the more damage is done
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 12:14:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 17, 2020, 12:19:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 17, 2020, 12:42:38 pm
Doesn't have to be a long wait-- just a pause, so's somebody can tell us "no wait that's stupid" if need be.oh right. Makes sense
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 01:34:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 03:17:43 pm
1: The officer that spoke to us-- his squadron was in tatters, and in the process of retreating while Eric's forces took up the position it vacated. A changing of the guard.
2: ...the Line is crumbling, and Eric is buying time for his fellow Crusaders to escape. This has, after all, been a losing war.
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 03:20:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 17, 2020, 04:30:07 pm
[4][17] Stunned, you have difficulty directing your wings to unfurl from your back. There's a moment where you consider shaping them into their vaguely insectoid appearance, but you reconsider based on the situation. It sounds like a good way to draw friendly fire.
[Affirmative. Would you like me to connect to your ally's radio signals?]
A mask of gold and black seals your face, and you remind yourself to check and see what it looks like when you're finished with this. The air quality changes become filtered and stale. You ignore all the heartbeats around you, focusing on the line in the distance. A small radar pops up, showing you the Warmachine's advance towards the encroaching front.
[18] You exhale a sigh of annoyance and let yourself rise into the air. The camp fades beneath your feet, and you hear the Crusaders cry out in happiness. You rise above, into the smoke and the cloud, trying to get a fix on the location of the artillery. Having analyzed the firing lines, you know that they are behind a hill, across the battered and exploding no man's land. Looking down, the Warmachines are laying down heavy suppressing fire while approaching the Crusader Lines, blowing away the opposition. Las-pulse plinks harmlessly off their armor.
[20][20] You breathe out a sigh, staring at the line, where the Crusaders are dying, then glancing at the hill-line hiding the artillery. Fire begins to lick at your hands, and you begin to feel a rage rise up within you. It's too familiar. Too much of a reminder of your childhood for you to let it go without a response. Rage, anger, frustration, it all turns into willpower, exploding outward--
From below, you're sure, the sudden firestorm that burns in the air must look like a miracle-- and you're quite proud of it. seven shining wings of super hot fire rip across the sky, easily [ten meters] from tip to tip, and around them burns a roaring firestorm of crackling hydrogen and energy. You're surprised at how easy it is--
This is what we were made for.
[16] The battle ceases below, as the Infected and Crusader alike halt their attack. You can feel their beady black eyes upon you, and the Crusaders are quick to open fire once more, reinvigorated, no doubt, by the intense heat that burns away the cold winds... you consider your next move, shifting to one side or another to avoid the sporadic las-fire. Maybe you should just give in to this rage and frustration you feel.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 17, 2020, 04:45:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 17, 2020, 05:04:11 pm
[Do so.]
Rage? Frustration? Fulfillment. Joy. This is our world, our war, our time for glory-- burn bright now, young godling, and let us revel in the force of our will made manifest!
Partake with us, honored mentor!
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 05:54:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 17, 2020, 06:43:54 pm
[7+2 vs 11] Shots crack into your shield as you go behind enemy lines, you ignore them. You take hold of your emotions, hovering above the Infected Artillery Line, as the cannons twist to face you, recognizing you as the greater threat. You twist your halo of fire forward, exploding a cannon shell in the air, overheating it in an instant.
Like a conductor, tying your halo to your hands, you twist it down into a straight line of cracking plasma. The ground steams up fresh water, only feeding the burning reaction with more hydrogen as you use it to scour the Infected from the valley. They burn blue, green, and red, screaming comprehensively. Artillery shells explode as they overheat, causing more damage. Cannon barrels fall to the ground as the Infected muscle holding them together is purged with fire. You cannot count how many abominations burn.
[15] It exhausts you, twisting the fire back into your crackling corona. The Artillery has been burned away to nothing, the metal barrels warped and fallen.
[14+2 vs 20] You hover towards the line, watching carefully. The Crusaders are still falling-- too fast, the Infected fighting ferociously despite the heavy lost they are sustaining. Something roars in the western distance.
[Something big is approaching. Similiar sound profile to Rostadt. Larger.]
[14 vs 13] You grin, letting yourself fall to the ground, lashing out with your corona, burning through the abominations at the center of the trench. With a twist of your hands your corona straightens, ripping through the opposing line, screams of inhuman enemies following it as you burn away the FILTH THAT DARES TO TREAD UPON YOUR PLANET.
[10+2 vs 9] "Over the top! Regain our ground, Crusaders! Alphira protects! Send a message to the north and south flanks!" Somebody shouts, and at your back is the remnant of the Crusader line, the Thornton Warmachines providing heavy suppressing fire as the group makes their way across the muddy and cratered no man's land, no doubt seeking the fortifications in the distance.
You laugh, grateful for the mask, because you're enjoying purging these filthy beasts perhaps a little too much.
[15] Your wall of Inferno advances in front of you, never faltering, not yet, burning anything that doesn't flee. Insects rip themselves from the ground, four of them, suddenly charging. It will be difficult to maintain--
[11+2 vs 5]Warmachines hurl themselves at one, a cutter blade flashing through the sky. It misses, and he's knocked aside, but his allies do not miss. An Inferno shotgun rings out, blasting away flesh and forcing a keening scream from the beast as tentacles lash in frantic pain.
[15+2 vs 3] A Crusader rushes forward to protect you, lifting his Cutter blade and impaling the Bug as it raises on to its hind legs for an attack. It goes still, falling towards him, and he rolls out of the way.
[13+2 vs 1] [6+2 vs 1] The other one falls to a rapid barrage of las-fire, screaming as its flesh explodes outward into steam. The Thorntons hack apart the last Insect with savage efficiency.
[3][4] You reach the next trench, finding abominations. "Keep clear." Your voice is already magnified, and the order is relayed efficiently. Like a fog, your willpower goes to the lowest point-- nothing happens for a few frantic attempts, the infected crawling their way up to try and maul your soldiers-- one nearby you falls screaming, his throat ripped out--
[19] It ignites, the trenches exploding with sudden fire. The air is filled with keening of your foes, and the Crusaders take their places in the new fortification, killing the injured Abominations. You haven't gone fifty feet, and yet the Crusaders scream your name in victory. The Wasteland, for the time, is empty, and the Crusaders fortify themselves for the next rush.
You note, with pride, that to the north and south, the Crusaders are pushing back, reclaiming their place like their brethren.
[Rodstadt Infected close enough to be a threat. Fifty meters.]
"HAIL ALPHIRA!" A familiar voice beside you screams, you glance over, finding Eric standing a safe distance away, on his knees, a cutter blade in one hand and an illegally modified las-rifle in the other. His helmet hangs from the strap, from his neck, and after you glance at him, he slips it back up, jumping into the trench and inspecting his soldiers.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 06:58:32 pm
"It's nice to see you, Eric. Prepare for a difficult battle. Expect a gigantic worm-like being with many tentacles and a screech that instills fear. It's major organs are in its torso and it will be here soon."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 17, 2020, 09:08:13 pm
This Colossus has a silvery shell that coils and writhes organically around its thick body. With [twenty feet] of tail resting beneath it, [fifty feet] rises to throw a shadow upon the land. With its armored carapace and thick body, it's nearly [fifteen feet] wide. Twenty tentacled arms, as long as it is, slither down, tipped with cruel, scything blades, dragging across the ground. Lightning rises from its form, lashing into the air above, red from the dust in the atmosphere. The faces all down its side are all twisted into screams -- crusader helmets also jut out from the armor, embedded into it by the same process. Your soldiers fire upon it, but it pays them no mind, its many eyes fixating on you.
"W̵̤̰͇͇̪e͏͈̬̜̣̖̻͓̮̠̹̞͕̱̯̪͎̩͘ ͏̷͎̞̳̬͉͔̫̮̻̀͟m̡̢͚̟̳̥͕̞̻͓̳̩͍̩͚̠̟ȩ̸̧̣̻͕̯̭̜̘̭͎͕̀͠e̡̨̦̻̲͔̝̰̝̘ͅt̶̹̭̮̥̺̝̣̤̥̱̫̜̜̟̼́͜ ͘͘͝҉̨͎̤̫͚̻̝̣̦͎̖ͅą҉̨̖̙̥̰̣̠̹̺̺̰͔͓ͅg̴̵̠̰̹͇͠a҉̡͇̜̖̱̩̙̜ͅi͏̵̢͔̭̘̖̘̠̱n̷͏̡̤̣͍̳̝͢͜.̵̼̼͕̗̳͙̫̺̱̺̞̭̦͎̥̗̘̙͡͠ͅ" It's voice of static burns into your mind. It screams once, and from behind it streams Abominations. The Crusaders engage the best they can while in the shadow of the beast.
[ERROR! DAMAGES- da--...emergency mode activating.]
[|||||||||]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 09:54:01 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 17, 2020, 09:56:52 pm
Attempt to create earth manipulation spikes to remove some of the scything tentacles.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 17, 2020, 10:41:44 pm
[4-2 vs 5] You try to lift off, only to have those scything blades snap into your shield with enough force to send you sprawling into the no man's land's muddy ground. The static fills your bones, making it hard to think as your body converts it into garbled and twisting messages that ruin your arithmetic.
[3][13] You twist the earth forth, lifting it into a sudden spike to impale the creature and stop those writhing blades, but--
[17 vs 20] There's a pop as your shield cracks from the impact of the tentacles, as they crush your spikes and slam into your shield once again. You once again taste mud.
D̝̤͞į̬ͅͅd̪͍͎̟ y̡̬̫̘̻͕ou̟̺͇̺̮̬ ̡̤͙̼͖̝͓ͅt͏̟̱h̜͔͞i̯̼͈̳͎n̦͇̜͘k ̻̘I͇̞ ́d̬̳͖͡ͅi̵̻̝͉ͅd̮̣̦̫ṋ'̢̳̬̖̰t͝ͅ ̗l͇͙͟e̴͚a̛̠͕̦rn̙͔͖̙͚͍͎?̘͖
[|||||||||]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2020, 11:19:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 01:03:20 am
First, inject some ballistic. Then, take flight, activate inferno, and attempt to use the heat to sear off the protective metal carapace on its torso while avoiding the tentacles.
+1
Brute-force the "arithmetic" if we have to. This is no time for mathematical niceties.
Post by: King Zultan on April 18, 2020, 05:29:31 am
+1First, inject some ballistic. Then, take flight, activate inferno, and attempt to use the heat to sear off the protective metal carapace on its torso while avoiding the tentacles.
+1
Brute-force the "arithmetic" if we have to. This is no time for mathematical niceties.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 01:43:06 pm
[19-1] You call forth your Inferno, letting it lash and shift around you. The fires burn bright, crackling with energy, and are a faint blue in the day. You focus, expanding it until it twists into a savage nimbus of writhing, luminous, blue fire. The Worm stares with a multitude of eyes, then screams at you in garbled static, lunging forth.
[20-1 vs. 16] The explosive fury of your Inferno washes over the Worm, searing and shriveling its unprotected tentacles. It draws back with a hiss, lunging with the other side-- you let yourself drop, and they whistle pointlessly overhead. You drive the Inferno forward, the Worm's armor hissing and spitting as it begins to melt. It flinches back in pain, drawing away from the fire.
[|||||||..]
[16-1 vs. 4] It shifts back, and with twitching of its disgusting body, energy begins to spark outward from its skin. All at once, it coalesces into lightning upon one of its limbs, and it swipes at you with it. You twist away, bringing up your Inferno to burn away the offending limb even as it cackles with enough power to fry you within your armor.
[||||||...]
[11-1 vs. 1] The two of you swipe and stab at one another, energy flashing out into the sky from both of you as you dodge and parry each other's deadly attacks. By the end of the exchange, the earth around you sprouts fulgurite, and the mud around it is baked with scorch marks -- but so is its disgusting red flesh and twisting armor.
[||||.....]
[20-1 vs. 16] You begin to feel weak-- breathing hard from the exertion of dodging while using Inferno. But you have strength enough to avoid another blow and use your nimbus of fire to hack at the creature's torso savagely. It screams as you sear through armor and flesh alike, twisting away from the savage light.
[||.......]
The nimbus collapses in on itself with a sudden pop, water droplets raining down to the ground. Your wings falter, drawing themselves in until you can barely maintain lift. Your stomach gurgles with hunger. Your mask is heady with the smell of iron as something streams from your eyes and nose. Blood, you are sure, from the strain.
The Worm is missing many of its tentacles, great savage gashes of burnt flesh scoring its flesh beneath the shifting armor, which, to bares signs of having been melted. But still, it lives, writhing and twisting, hissing its heavy static that jars you to your bones. It stares with triumph, no doubt, in your exertion.
[16-1] The air is filled with a sudden whistling as artillery shells rain down from behind you -- a few pass close enough to touch, and you lift yourself higher, out of the firing lines as a shell after shell explodes upon contact with the Worm. It screeches in pain as its form shudders from the impacts of explosive rounds.
[|........]
The static finally stops, as it collapses, still bombarded with shell after shell of artillery fire, until even that stops, leaving a broken and burned mess behind.
It's still alive, no doubt, as its black and gray ichor flows from its new wounds, but, from what you can tell of its biology, it's going into shock.
[/........]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Eschar on April 18, 2020, 01:45:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 01:51:11 pm
"We are similar beings. Is coexistence possible?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 02:04:49 pm
No diplomacy. Let this abomination bleed out on the clean ground. Suffer not the works of the Plague to live.
"I-- learn-- too."
...
Nutrient cube. Two, if needed. Check in with our mercenaries.
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 02:20:12 pm
The headache, the hunger-- they come from forcing the arithmetic!+1
No diplomacy. Let this abomination bleed out on the clean ground. Suffer not the works of the Plague to live.
"I-- learn-- too."
...
Nutrient cube. Two, if needed. Check in with our mercenaries.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 02:22:03 pm
+1 finish it off with a las gun blast after eating nutrient cube(s) and before leaving itThe headache, the hunger-- they come from forcing the arithmetic!+1
No diplomacy. Let this abomination bleed out on the clean ground. Suffer not the works of the Plague to live.
"I-- learn-- too."
...
Nutrient cube. Two, if needed. Check in with our mercenaries.
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 02:24:51 pm
Can we finish it off with a las gun blast?
With an Overload, maybe. I'd be worried about splitting our poor overworked processor in twain.
I have no idea what's going on but I would like to say that was awesome
Went better than our last encounter (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=175587.msg8114138#msg8114138) with one of these, to be sure! :))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 02:36:48 pm
"S̗̞͔͈͕̫o̠o̩̝n̮͢.͉̹̠" Is the last thing it speaks, its body twitching, red lightning still crackling from its skin, then it is still, the energy dissipating from its prone form. You collapse back into the mud, your body aching with your exertion. You fish out a nutrient cube, choking down the dry, dusty food. It does nothing to help your cramping stomach. So you eat another. And another. Blood is indeed streaming from your eyes, nose, and ears-- you don't brush it off. Your underlay is coated in mud and ichor.
A Crusader approaches, staring at the entity as soldiers begin to fortify the line they lost. Abominations wander haphazardly, unable to coordinate assaults -- and they are picked off, one after another without great difficulty. He tosses his canteen at you. "Those ration bars are terrible without something to drink." He collapses into the mud beside you.
You take a drink, draining it-- only to start coughing heavily. Its diluted vodka. "How are the Warmachines?" You ask, taking another bite of the cube.
"One injured, removed the infected arm." He pauses, watching you, "We would have all died, had you not shown up."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 02:40:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 02:46:37 pm
"How has the situation deteriorated? Is it simply due to overwhelming enemy numbers?"
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 02:57:12 pm
Smile weak-- "Happy to be of service."probably, why are we asking this?"How has the situation deteriorated? Is it simply due to overwhelming enemy numbers?"
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 02:58:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 03:01:05 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 03:03:12 pm
"Granted."
"Many, many things. We're being fed ration cubes now. We have to pour vodka in our water just to disinfect it so we aren't -- getting sick, because our damn pump got screwed and no one has come to fix it." Eric sighs, "Then those damn things managed to put artillery pieces back together to give us hell. Their numbers keep getting stronger and stronger while we keep getting fresh-faced idiots who only end up dying."
He gestures over to the massive corpse lying just beyond the new fortification. "Then there are those things."
"And through it all high command's only fucking order? Hold the line. No shit. What else would we be doing?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 03:03:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 03:11:26 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 04:08:53 pm
"These issues definitely need to be addressed, and I have a plan for doing so. I will be meeting with high command in a couple of days. Expect new orders, more helpful orders, shortly."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 04:20:35 pm
Funny how the tone of our voice fluctuates depending on who suggests the dialogue... rather illustrates the fractures in our personality, no? "Patches" indeed.+1 accidentally skipped update again, will delete invalid vote"These issues definitely need to be addressed, and I have a plan for doing so. I will be meeting with high command in a couple of days. Expect new orders, more helpful orders, shortly."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 05:19:16 pm
[Reboot Initiated. Please wait.]
"I'll take your word for it, Mother Alphira." Eric rises stiffly, slipping his helmet over his head and inspecting the line. A runner comes to speak with him, and is sent off towards the northern flank. You're left watching in silence, until your Warmachines return to you. One is indeed missing an arm but considering how those can be replaced. Gashes and pockmarks litter their thick armor, but they stand tall, hands-on guns and ready to fight.
"Lady Alphira." The Captain states, glancing towards the corpse of the Worm and slowly dropping to a knee. "Any further orders? Or should I call the ships back?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 05:22:36 pm
"I'd like to take a cross-section of the demon for analysis. Perhaps Silas will be able to analyze it and determine its weaknesses."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 05:24:54 pm
Do we have time to rest here a bit and then continue the fight, or is the meeting imminent?+1 I’m guessing we have time, no way we’ve been here for 2 days, right?
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 05:26:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 05:39:58 pm
"I'd like to take a cross-section of the demon for analysis. Perhaps Silas will be able to analyze it and determine its weaknesses."[/b]
Er, do we really want to be taking [plague]-infected tissue with us back into Holy City? Rogue nano-tech is bad news.
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 05:41:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 05:48:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 05:50:17 pm
"Wait, don't destroy it entirely. I want to take a sample for analysis."
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 05:56:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 05:59:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 06:09:46 pm
It's easy to say "we'll be careful"... how are we going to transport this stuff?can we put it in ethanol without setting said ethanol on fire? Or would that not even sterilize? Maybe we should just let them burn it
EDIT: what if we coax the earth around a section on the ground to form a small wall around a piece and form a connection on top of it, then take the earth shape with the sample encased within? Like
Code: [Select]
-=ground
,=plague substance
o=earth formation
ooo
o,,o,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
——-—————-——o————————————-The infection doesn’t infect the ground, if it did, it would control the ground. After this, we can pick up the earth container with the infected bit still inside
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 06:42:09 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 07:12:14 pm
Combining everything, then...
Approach the smoldering worm. "Hold."
Let our will hang in protection about us. Draw our Cutter, and scythe free a fist-size lump of the tainted tissue-- raise clean silicon from the earth, and wrap our sample tight and swift. Cleanse our work with a swift blaze of hydrogen, and take up the sealed orb.
"As you were."
To Captain {Faith? Is Faith, yes?}: "Call in our ride-- we've done what we came here to do. The post is preserved, and I've my intel."
"And ah, captain? Thank you. Your insubordination proved valuable back there. I apologize for my show of ill confidence."
"Just..." (smirk a little) "...don't make a habit of it."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 09:03:44 pm
[20][15][11] You work swiftly, carving out a chunk of flesh and wrapping it tightly in a case of silicon. You separate the water vapor within and hold a small ball of fire around it. Nothing happens. You think you've successfully contained it. You walk away as they douse the whole corpse the best they can, a soldier stepping away to fire his las-gun at it. Its engulfed in blue and green flames, with a noxious smoke rising from it.
You form a neat handle with fresh silicon, and pass it over to a Warmachine as you and the squad leave the battleground behind. There's one final cheer for you, a 'Hail Alphira' that echoes down the line.
The command post is still in tatters, but those injured are working to put it back together. Your hovercrafts drop down as you address the Captain, who, you're quite sure, isn't Faith. The Captain nods, "I will try not to make a habit of it. But please note that we are not trained for rescue operations. Our primary task is, and was, purely rapid assault. We have some training to keep us alive longer, but medic work is not something we can do easy." He flexes his massive fingers to you in a wave as he loads the sample into a craft and settles into another.
[1 vs 9] The ride back to the Holy City takes an hour -- and its thirty minutes in when you realize that your fists are clenched tightly enough into your hands that you're drawing blood with your fingernails. That's when you notice the dancing blackness on the edge of your vision; shadowy figures of dusty gray.
Intiating shutdown. Infection based memetic virus detected within personality cores. The Interface's voice drips with ice as she informs you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 09:29:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 09:34:13 pm
Understood. A moment, please--
Quickly, to any Warmachine beside us: "Losing consciousness, no cause for concern. If I'm still out when we arrive, see me to safety-- in isolation."
Be careful, Phoebe.
To the Interface: Continue. Thank you.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 09:47:09 pm
The Warmachine no doubt looks very confused by your sudden announcement, his helmet tilting like a puppy's trying to understand exactly what is going on. "Uh...wha-?"
You lay down and shut your eyes tightly against the darkness that encroaches...and you dream.
A fire burns nearby, a small thing, flickering brightly against impossible darkness. You hunch over it, even as it begins to smolder into coals. A cold seeps in -- things shift in the starless night beyond the dwindling flame.
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 09:49:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 09:51:29 pm
Feed the dwindling flame: slowly, with a careful trickle of hydrogen. Apply no spark of our own making, for now.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 18, 2020, 09:56:22 pm
+1Feed the dwindling flame: slowly, with a careful trickle of hydrogen. Apply no spark of our own making, for now.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 10:04:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 10:08:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 10:09:25 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 10:19:09 pm
It blooms. A bright white light, a pinprick in the sky. Then another. And another. Eight in total, all shining through the darkness. Motes of light dancing in infinite rhythm with one another. Their light is cold and distant, but the darkness retreats.
[15] They explode into infinite expanses of bright dust in the cold void. A golden mote drifts towards you.
Why do you hesitate? Shine with us.
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 10:25:51 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 18, 2020, 10:27:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 10:39:29 pm
Others approach, not you, but similar in size and shape. They walk with their eyes downcast, not able to look directly into the flames that burn around you-- but they take shelter in your warmth, in your light.
Do you still fly free?
Post by: ZBridges on April 18, 2020, 10:51:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 11:02:40 pm
My people.
They are-- so dear to me--
---
--I cannot leave them. Not yet. Not yet.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 11:31:03 pm
[11] You rub at your face and head as you awaken. You take in your surroundings with a sweep of your gaze-- a dingy warehouse room. You're still covered in mud and ichor and sweat, and your arms are bound behind you with a bit of plastic. You can see no one, but in the distance, you can feel the hum of at least one rifle. You test your bindings by tapping them against the floor -- bioplastic from the sound.
It doesn't even strain you to break them apart. With a glance downward, you note that you still have your armor on-- but no weapons.
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 11:43:09 pm
Check our helmet for heartbeats.
[Lucille-- can you get a bead on our location?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 18, 2020, 11:49:10 pm
[Holy City Suburbs, A Warehouse District]
There are a few nearby, one sitting on the opposite end of the door, the las-rifle in his hands. the others busy themselves in the distance. As your willpower coils around you can feel it-- another willpower in the distance, a predatory intent stalking a safe distance away.
Post by: Superdorf on April 18, 2020, 11:56:13 pm
Give that other willpower a metaphorical tap on the shoulder. It's probably William.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 12:07:18 am
You strain to reach out with your willpower-- and fall short by a few meters. Something chimes in the other room. "Mother Alphira?" A weak voice questions.
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 12:14:15 am
Have you a name, "Interface"?
"The same! How long have I been out?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 12:23:34 am
I have been call many things, but have no need for names. Interface is fine. VOID is fine, if confusing, as that is the common terminology for the vast distances between the atmospheres of worlds and other stellar bodies. I was called Lifegiver once. That may be familiar to your particular instance.
"A-an hour after you landed, Mother Alphira. It's...it's you?" The tremulous, male voice questions. William's willpower approaches slowly, stalking into the building. A las-gun follows with him, its reactor humming with killing intent. He slips the door open, peeking inside.
"Oh good, you're not some terrifying abomination." The safety clicks on, and the reactor hums down. Maybe its disappointed it didn't get to kill. A grin curls your lips. He speaks into a radio -- "Yeah, you all can stand down. She's fine."
You suddenly feel dual reactors drifting through your lines of awareness, and the door opens on William and the reformed cultist, who sits with a rifle levelled at the door and a radio in his hand. He sets the rifle down, breathing out a heavy sigh of relief. William slips the pistol into its holster.
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 12:58:49 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 01:05:07 am
"Why was I restrained?"
Presumably because we passed out abruptly in transport, specifically asking to be contained? These guys ain't gonna mess about with a potential infected [angel] on the loose!
"Lifegiver"-- a motherly name! Perhaps I shall call you "Mother", and leave it at that... what say you?
Assume a suitable slightly-sheepish expression. "Sorry to put you two on edge like that-- I'm fine now! Had to clear a bit of leftover [plague] out of my system... [angel] trick. Fine now."
"The others get back alright?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 01:09:12 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 01:15:19 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 01:24:13 am
"Alphira told me as much." William nods, glancing out the door, "Hence the firing squad we had lined up outside of your willpower...and the sacrificial lamb."
With another nod, he slouches, all of his tense muscles and cybernetics relaxing as his hand comes to instinctively rest on his pistol. You look him over, noting the material that clings tightly to what looks to be muscle on his arms. He glances at the reformed cultist, "Hey, yo, go get my coat."
William notices where your eyes go, and peels up a sleeve-- what was once skeletal cybernetics is now covered by a silvery-black material that coils like muscle. "It started growing a bit ago. Alphie says that while I won't be able to do 'magic' like you, I should be physically stronger."
"As nice as those handcuffs look on you--" He tosses you a key, and you reach down and undo what remains of them, letting the shattered plastic fall to the floor. "We sent the sample to Silas. They'll cut it open in a clean room and take a look at it."
"Have fun on the front?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 01:30:01 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 19, 2020, 08:18:24 am
"A blast. I had a chance to kill another one of those Colossi. This one was older and stronger."”I also killed a [plague] artillery unit. Upon killing the Collosal, the abominations lost their organization, I’m thinking the Collosals function like the [plague’s] brains”
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 11:48:05 am
"So much fun." Grin wide, let the words fall out.
"A blast. I had a chance to kill another one of those Colossi. This one was older and stronger."”I also killed a [plague] artillery unit. Upon killing the Collosal, the abominations lost their organization, I’m thinking the Collosals function like the [plague’s] brains?”
"It recognized me from Rodstadt-- its kind is built to kill Empyreals, I think-- we burned it alive. We burned everything! This was nothing like Rodstadt-- better than Rodstadt. So much better."
Sigh. "I've learned since then. We can turn this war around, I know it now! I know it now."
...
"...anyway." Rise. "How's your day gone?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 06:42:48 pm
"I am glad you made it back though. It'd be boring without you." He offers.
"I did paperwork. The Thornton accountant is taking an assessment for how much continued operations will cost. Living the dream." The sarcasm in his voice hangs heavy as he hands you back your weapons and gear, and you attach them to your armor. Everything is coated in dried mud.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 06:51:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 19, 2020, 07:06:07 pm
"You should join me next time. It sounds like you could use a break from all this administration."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 07:25:18 pm
"I am glad you made it back though. It'd be boring without you." He offers.
D'aww. Brother. ^-^
"You should join me next time. It sounds like you could use a break from all this administration."+1
+1-- speak with a grin!
"Anyway. I need somewhere to get the charred bug guts out of my... everything. This warehouse of ours have decent plumbing, or will I need to head back to compound for that?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 08:06:47 pm
"If you want to be all spotless for Emma, I can get someone to run you a bucket of hot water. Find you a few washcloths, but privacy is a bit difficult to find." Willaims shrugs his shoulders, glancing at the young ex-cultist, who is trying his best to be attentive.
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 08:20:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 09:08:17 pm
"It's not a priority at the moment, so I'll probably just walk back to the compound. Do you know if Iyal is okay?"
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 19, 2020, 09:18:51 pm
+1 why not contact her ourselves?"It's not a priority at the moment, so I'll probably just walk back to the compound. Do you know if Iyal is okay?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 09:21:24 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 19, 2020, 09:25:03 pm
We should give William a full run down of what happened.
We should check if we can disable whatever is allowing the communication with the enemy. They don't seem like they will negotiate and it might be forcing corruption through it.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 19, 2020, 09:30:17 pm
"The enemy is adapting. We know that killing the nerve centers will be key, they may hide them next time or send more then one."+1
We should give William a full run down of what happened.
We should check if we can disable whatever is allowing the communication with the enemy. They don't seem like they will negotiate and it might be forcing corruption through it.
Luckily it doesn’t corrupt radios
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 09:32:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 09:34:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 19, 2020, 09:34:31 pm
Do we know that? I bet it does.fair point, we know it hasn’t corrupted them yet, maybe it doesn’t know we have them?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 09:51:36 pm
"What role do you see the Thorntons playing in relation to the state once the war is over?"One more vote required, as this is a fairly serious conversation point.
The translation modification allows for communication with all sentient lifeforms, including [the plague]. I do not know if that will solve the problem, however, and it can be troublesome to switch off, as humans are social creatures.
William listens intently, settling down on the crate. His smile fades and his expression hardens into one of serious concentration. "If they're so important, why are they using them to attack you?" He questions when you finish. "If they were my mainline to controlling the rabble, then I would keep them in reserve."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 19, 2020, 10:04:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 10:09:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 10:23:28 pm
"Maybe you're the [queen in chess] that its willing to sacrifice its [knights in chess] for?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 10:25:37 pm
We can-- turn off our linguistics? That's useful... can we do so in partiality? Shut down one language at a time?
Regardless, I'm more worried about that scream. I don't suppose we've any tricks for that?
"...yes. That. Exactly that."
Pace as we explain. "I wish you'd seen-- the rabble was chaff, once I got there. Ablative meat. Most plague creatures, I can burn away now in droves... not the colossi. They're huge, and that scream of theirs dulls Empyreal arithmetic-- had me bleeding out the eyes, like way back at the Moores-- it's like they've evolved against our kind!"
"This is an [angel] fight now. If these things can't bring down the [angel], they've lost. They know this. They'll prioritize accordingly. The colossi are their best bet, I think, for bringing that about."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 10:48:26 pm
[-] William's grin falters and falls as he shifts upright. "Phebe...that's...concerning. If they switch targets from SEED to you, then they might change their strategies. It's what I would do. They're trying to overwhelm SEED in a ground war, but they've seen you with wings now, and they know you have an attachment to these people -- otherwise you'd be long gone after Rodstadt."
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 10:58:07 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 11:02:58 pm
I thought as much. Thank you.
"You see why I'm concerned. You see why I bother with SEED's broken-down mess of a military. You see why it's so important to me, that this world be able to fight for itself."
"This war-- it's an arms race. I won out there today because I had tricks the [plague] didn't know about. Now I'm asking myself: what's our next trick? The [plague] adapts. We adapt too."
Post by: ZBridges on April 19, 2020, 11:04:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 11:10:52 pm
That, and I suspect Phoebe ain't too comfortable about that question herself. "P̴r̶i̸m̵a̵r̷y̸ ̷O̸b̶j̸e̴c̴t̷i̸v̵e̷:̴ ̷P̴r̷o̶t̵e̸c̵t̴ ̸E̸m̴m̸a̸ ̷T̶h̷o̸r̴n̵t̷o̶n̶" and all that.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 11:24:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 19, 2020, 11:40:13 pm
"I'd like to see about a few radio-sets for the Crusader artillerists, if possible. Simple pieces. Seems they've been dealing with the colossi by sending runners back to the artillery when one shows up, runners and flares... inefficient. Costly. We can do better!"
"Other than that, I'll leave you to it." Smile. "Thanks, Will."
Nod to John as we head out for compound. "Nice to see you up and about too!"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 19, 2020, 11:58:22 pm
You arrive back at the compound a little while later. You head towards the laundry, where the juniors of the Guards work, and hand over your clothing. You are given a uniform in return, and your armor will be cleaned. As strange as it is for you to put on clean clothes while you are caked in mud and grime, the Guards are adamant about you not leaving without them.
Emma, pauses when you darken your doorway, stopping herself midstep -- instead, she opens she bathroom door for you, and you step gratefully inside. She's quick to join you after you rinse off the worst of the mud and ichor.
The two of you lounge on the bed, the night starting to draw down the rains. If you focus, you can hear them pattering on to the roof somewhere above. Emma sits next to you, a charcoal pencil in hand, sketching on what looks to be expensive paper.
[15] Something catches your eye -- its the Colossus you fought today, down to minute details. The crackling of lightning, its twitching flesh, and the gleam of the sun on its sharp blades.
...you haven't told Emma about today. You were otherwise too preoccupied, and she doesn't ask if you don't volunteer, something that has held true ever since the Moore Family.
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 01:09:31 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 01:20:45 am
"That's beautiful. Can I ask how you know about it... or is now 'just not the time?'"
Er, is kinda unclear whether that colossus is Emma's sketch or a hallucination on our part... I'm leaning hallucination.
If hallucination: shift closer, smile. "Whatcha drawing?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 01:23:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 01:27:57 am
[3] You shift closer, only to note the details of the drawing were less fine than before -- it no longer seems to writhe upon the paper or twitch with electricity. But it's still a detailed sketch of the entity you fought today. "I've been dreaming a lot lately. Alphira told me that drawing it out helps...this one was a nightmare. Why do you ask?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 01:30:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 02:45:33 am
"Oh...well. I'm...sorry?" Emma looks confused, glancing down at the pad of paper. "I'll feed it to Mitch--" She starts to wad the paper up.
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 02:48:13 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 02:52:26 am
[11] "I've been having a lot of weird dreams, lately."
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 02:56:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 03:08:59 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 03:20:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 20, 2020, 04:49:54 am
"I struggle to think of what could be worth such destruction. The loss of life associated with the consumption of entire worlds... it's terrifying."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 01:02:09 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 02:21:25 pm
Describe the hallucinations caused by the oil.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 03:02:16 pm
She leans in and gives you a quick kiss, turning to her sketch. This one seems different, its of you, you think. However, it resembles a statue more than yourself. The texture of your armor stretches over your entire body and the androgynous mask that your armor produces is covering your face. Seven fixed wings of black metal sprout from your back, rising above the small hill you stand on. Flowers bloom between scraps of metal and destroyed rock. "I saw this though when I thought of you."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 03:16:28 pm
When she finishes with her artistry this time -- Its the same picture as before, the details the exact same, except for one difference. The statue is gold set upon black, and the ground around it is the black of volcanic soil, with many flowers poking out, struggling in between rocks and rubble. Nine stars rise over the statue, a multitude of hues. Nine people, robed in white, stand over a pale young man missing a leg, blood coloring his clothes a dark red. Tears of blood drip from the mask, onto the man prone beneath the statue.
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 03:24:38 pm
Examine the young man. Does he look familiar?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 03:44:48 pm
[19] The young man is tan of skin, with a bright shock of blond hair. His features are similar to those of William's, but far more distant. They are contorted in pain, and his skin has an unhealthy pallor to it.
[17] Emma draws out another sketch while you wait, her expression falling once more as tears burn in her eyes. Its of the promontory that the statue stands on-- it's on a small island, with a beautiful cathedral of white -- but what surrounds it is disconcerting. A great lake washing against charred and cracked cliffs.
[5] The next sketch drawn by her increasingly frantic hand is a birds-eye view of the island and the cathedral -- it lays surrounded by a massive crater that splinters the land apart. Wreckage of a dark metal is strewn outward, and from that is a mountain of rubble. The land that surrounds it is painted a dark black.
The sketches grow increasingly frantic as Emma breaks down into a sobbing mess. The massive crater splinters apart the land in many directions-- and you finally the recognize where the island would be located.
[1] The crater is centered in what would be the Holy City of SEED, cracks in the earth stretching all the way to the River Noir.
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 03:57:41 pm
Hold Emma close.
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 04:03:44 pm
"N-no..."
Hold Emma close.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 04:14:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 04:42:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 04:43:03 pm
The one on top, ripped from its place, is you, leaning on a steel gantry, looking out a massive window towards a roiling star in the distance, smiling mid-laugh, looking back towards the viewer. Your red hair is in a loose top-knot-- another is the same image, except for William and Mitch standing by. William is staring at the sun with a happy smile, while Mitch is a massive beast, all muscle, and teeth.
"See!"
[11] You take the book -- and she almost pulls it back from you, but once again slumps down, defeated. All of them involve you, in form or another. Most are happy -- there's one with you standing triumphant over a crowd of onlookers, who's heads are bowed. You look like a god, standing above them all, wings flaring forth, a nimbus of fire over your head. Another is you in a dress, rings of flowers in your hair as you look out over the mountain-side, "...you were originally wearing a uniform." Emma sniffs, "But I thought you'd look better that way."
...but many more of them depict your deaths. One has you laying in a pile of rubble, las-gun holes peppering your frame through Lucille, blood streaming from your wounds as you hold a gun and a cutter loosely. One has you laying in a field and missing a leg. A young man, about your age, is standing over you, holding the hilt of a cutter that impales your chest. A frown curls his lips. You clutch at the cutter's burning hot blade with a smoking hand, staring him down in defiance. In the sky above and behind is a massive Void-ship, all gleaming gun turrets and killing intent.
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 04:48:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 04:55:43 pm
"So we'll pick one we like." Smile, hugs. "But where are you in all these?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 05:09:00 pm
"If...if you think its possible...that these...might be something?"
[20] She reaches towards a balled, crumpled piece of paper on the desk, unfolding it, and extending it out with a shaking hand.
A dark figure flies high in the sky above the citadel of SEED. A Levithan of Infected tissue, bristling with turrets and rending tentacles the size of hovercrafts. It has many faces, all emitting a black squall of static light. Insectoid figures rain down on the city, as las fire pulses up towards them, and it. Infected hovercraft fly in formation, streaking towards their objectives. You fly, wings stretching out against the night sky, head turned away from the viewer as fire plays out in your hands. The city burns below you, smoke rising up to form heavy clouds. Snow sits on the bits of ground that you can see from the angle.
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 05:15:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 05:47:19 pm
"I love you." Emma murmurs, sleepily, after a time.
"I love you too." You respond, smiling, giving her a peck on her forehead as she drifts off to sleep.
You cannot help but feel a lingering fear after the last image. A dark worry growing into a deep pit in your stomach. Sleep doesn't come easily -- and you start when you hear the knock on the door. You rise, getting dressed in one of your many Crusader military uniforms. You open it a crack to peer through --
-- William stands on the other side, giving a wave of his hand. "Still good to spar?" He questions.
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 06:01:27 pm
"I'm not sleeping too well anyway." Hand the paper William's way. "What do you make of this?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 06:20:33 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 20, 2020, 06:21:26 pm
Hold on, Emma was hesitant to show us those drawings, and it was clearly very distressing for her. We should get permission from her to show them to her brother.yes, the. Sparring sounds good though
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 06:23:46 pm
Hold on, Emma was hesitant to show us those drawings, and it was clearly very distressing for her. We should get permission from her to show them to her brother.
That's... fair, yeah. So a simple
"...Yeah, sure."
and we'll leave it at that.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 20, 2020, 07:00:46 pm
+1Hold on, Emma was hesitant to show us those drawings, and it was clearly very distressing for her. We should get permission from her to show them to her brother.
That's... fair, yeah. So a simple
"...Yeah, sure."
and we'll leave it at that.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 07:12:07 pm
Luckily for you, the rain has turned back into snow, drifting down to collect in soggy piles of mush. The cold never bothered you, so you shuck your coat as William drops a bag. The bag contains a number of implements; punching gloves, heavy, thick rubber sticks, and other training equipment that you lack.
"What d'ya wanna do first?" William drawls with a grin, peeling off his coat and overshirt.
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 07:15:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 07:28:36 pm
Uhh rubber sticks maybe?+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 07:31:57 pm
Do you try any tricks or do anything of note, or simply go at it?
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 07:47:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 07:54:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 20, 2020, 08:00:03 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 08:14:36 pm
Go off what we know, for now. Maybe William can give us a pointer or two as we go.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 08:43:17 pm
[3+1 vs 6+2] "Affix bayonets!" William calls, then shifts forward on one foot, lunging out with his 'sword' in a straight line. You're distracted by his banter- and he prods you roughly in the side.
[12+1 vs 8+2] -- and in return you give him a harsh hack across the chest. He stumbles back with a crooked grin.
[17+1 vs 1+2] You smoothly dodge of the way of his next blow, then his next, shifting from foot to the other and back again, avoiding the attacks that come more and more rapidly. At first, William seems to have you on the defensive, but it isn't until you side-step a lunging blow and thwack him thoroughly on the back that he realizes he was playing into your hands.
[16+1 vs 13+2] The next exchange follows suit, even if William is paying more attention to you -- you manage to barely sidestep a few of his blows, or deflect them off of your own sword with a twist of an angle. On the last strike, a savage stab by William, you shift to one side, and he oversteps. You help him along with another firm thwack on his back.
William laughs as he picks himself up from the ground, brushing the snow from his clothes. "You're good, or maybe you're just distracting me."
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 08:55:49 pm
Bait him, and then, if he attacks, parry and riposte.
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 09:11:42 pm
"Accusations! I'm hurt." Grin. "Had enough, then?"
Bait him, and then, if he attacks, parry and riposte.
+1
We can probably keep going at this an hour or two, if we see fit.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 20, 2020, 09:13:36 pm
Good snark-- too many words. No time, is fighting! :D+1
"Accusations! I'm hurt." Grin. "Had enough, then?"Bait him, and then, if he attacks, parry and riposte.
+1
We can probably keep going at this an hour or two, if we see fit.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 09:24:33 pm
[3+1 vs 17+2] You trade blows, only to realize that he's changed strategies. Where once you could deflect and dodge, suddenly he's too close for that, using the edge of his sword instead of the 'point'. Less fencing and more knife-fighting. He scores several blows in quick succession, and you stumble back.
[16+1 vs 20+2] He doesn't relent, either, until you stumble back and fall on your rear from a particularly savage feint and hard swat to your chest. Your hand comes to what you're sure is going to be a bruise, staring at him with a dark look.
[8+1 vs 19+2] The next time you try to dodge, William purposefully steps into you, shoulder checking you roughly and forcing you to twist away from him -- the blade smacks your shoulder hard in return, and William stumbles back in a controlled fall to avoid your savage counter.
[12+1 vs 13+2] The soft thuds of your 'blades' impacting against one another echo through the training room as the two of you truly get down to business. At one point, they cross, and it becomes a wrestling match of strength to push down the other-- and William wins, bowling you over and knocking the rubber stick from your hand. You wince, shaking your smarting hand until the pain dulls.
"Now you're hurting." William boasts with a laugh, grinning down at you with the 'sword' at your chest, "Had enough then?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 09:51:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 10:04:51 pm
"You've got skill, but, like you said, you've got limited experience."
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 10:37:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 20, 2020, 10:44:33 pm
I dunno we can afford to purchase such complacency now tho. When the plague hits, it hits hard.
Nod "I've got like three years of memories, whatever my predecessors see fit to offer... nothing else. My combat experience has consisted largely of remembering how to set things on fire with my mind. [Angel] tricks." Take hand, rise. "It's a curious existence."
"Now." Back into a blade-stance. "I've bruises need avenging!"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 20, 2020, 11:22:54 pm
[16+1 vs 4+2] You parry, and he ducks, but not fast enough -- you lunge forward with a kick out of the blue. He blinks as it impacts his side, and he stumbles away. He raises a brow, and you return his grin savagely. "Alphie told me she was a pirate -- she was right!"
[13+1 vs 11+2] "That was a di-" You lunge while he's speaking, forcing him to guard against the sudden savage blow. A brief snarl curls across his face as he tries to deflect the blade, only for you to twist out of his parry and smack him in the chest with the point.
[1+1 vs 18+2] He doesn't speak or taunt now as he circles you, and you mirror his steps. His sanguine smile is back, the corners of his mouth twitching. Twisting suddenly to strike, you move to dodge -- only for his elbow to impact your chest with a hard hollow thump. It drives the air from your lungs.
[14+1 vs 4+2] The next blow catches you across the face suddenly, and sends into the snow -- you stagger back to your feet quickly, however, just in time to block William's next savage strike.
[17+1 vs 18+2][3+5 vs 12+1] The rubber bends hard, cracks echoing from the hard plastic core as you both push against the other's weapon. Both of you use your body weight and tremendous strength fully now -- instinctively, your willpowers begin to lash at one another as well. Your's is naturally stronger, and William flinches. A wicked grin flashes across his face as he leans in -- and he kisses you, just for a brief second. Surprised, you stumble, and the swords break.
"I win!" William grins, as you land on your ass. You stare at him, shocked, but he just grins, offering you a hand.
"Just remember this: The skilled swordsman and tactician sometimes feign weakness...and always, always, does the unexpected whenever possible."
Post by: ZBridges on April 20, 2020, 11:37:30 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 06:54:02 am
"You really are a rascal. If you're not careful, Emma will try to burn you alive, and I'm not sure if I'd be able to stop her."i don’t think threats are wise
Post by: King Zultan on April 21, 2020, 09:01:46 am
"You really are a rascal. If you're not careful, Emma will try to burn you alive, and I'm not sure if I'd be able to stop her."+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 11:22:00 am
Raise our will about us, a shield in anger. "Is this a sparring match or a tryst?"
Rise, step back. "I'm-- I'm not Alphira, William. Her feelings aren't mine. You know that-- don't you?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 01:19:16 pm
"I do have a question, however." You ask, gently, calmly.
"Shoot."
[4+5 vs 8+1] "Is this a sparring match or a tryst?" Your willpower lashes up, in anger and confusion, your voice harsh. William flinches but meets your gaze, his own willpower a similar, protective shroud about him. "I'm-- I'm not Alphira, William. Her feelings aren't mine. You know that-- don't you?"
[17][1] "If I thought you and her shared the same feelings I wouldn't have bothered, Phebe." William's response is calm, level. "Did you really think I would be attracted to her? She would have let me die in Rodstadt without a backward glance."
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 01:33:51 pm
We can't go through with this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 01:49:34 pm
“No. I don;t know what I am or was thinking. I’m sorry”
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 02:08:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 02:16:13 pm
This is becoming strange and confusing. William is our brother/son/clone, right?
That made me laugh hysterically.
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 02:17:00 pm
This has been strange and confusing ever since Rodstadt, truth be told. Won't be getting less so any time soon.
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 02:32:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 02:54:41 pm
"...you were bleeding. Bleeding. Broken. I couldn't go back to Emma and know-- I'd let her brother die--"
Sigh. "Brother. Brother-in-arms. Brother-in-law? But more than that-- I can't--"
--and a pause, and a breath, and what ZBridges said, with perhaps a "Please?" in the middle for good measure.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 03:03:11 pm
"The accountant is still faffing about with the production costs. We've managed to organize it into how much it would cost per Warmachine produced, so you can give an order for total number of units and send the bill to SEED, as usual."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 03:08:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 03:08:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 03:10:01 pm
"I'll accompany the flyover to ensure that it isn't intercepted. Excellent, can you give me an estimate for what the cost per unit might look like?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 03:14:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 03:16:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 03:27:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 03:40:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 03:57:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 04:00:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 04:06:15 pm
That's... a lot. I'm not sure if that would be feasible.we’re talking about SEED, I’m sure he has the money
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 04:07:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 05:51:41 pm
"How's young Moore these days, by the by?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 06:07:19 pm
"He's growing up with a retired Defender's family now. A good life. Not an easy one, like Emmas, or a rough one, like an orphan's. Perfectly in the middle."
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 07:40:06 pm
"G'night, William."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 07:46:31 pm
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 07:47:39 pm
This was strange.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 07:54:29 pm
...right. Back to bed with us.no, we have to wait for the hovercraft
This was strange.
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 07:57:37 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 08:08:41 pm
"I'd bring you breakfast in bed, but I'm still trying to get that information you wanted. The flyover is ready to go when you give the word, so...be careful." She explains dutifully, flashing you a smile as she leaves. "I ordered breakfast to be brought up for you though!"
Then she's gone, Mitch trailing behind on a chew marked chain. A piece of paper nearby explains what landing pad the ships are waiting at -- they'll be ready for liftoff as soon as you arrive. As if on queue, as soon as you finish reading, a guard knocks on the door. You dress, and receive them, and they set your meal down on the cluttered desk. A porridge of grain meal, with dried fruit mixed in. Pancakes, smothered in grape syrup, and a lot of sauteed insect meat cut into thin ribbons. Beside that is a fluffy looking [omelet] folded into a quarter of the size, the top covered with creamy, tart cheese.
You tuck in as you read what you've been given in terms of an escort team -- its nothing special, you think, but probably an expensive allotment. There will be six gunships to escort the scout hover-craft, which, itself is unarmed. You have enough fuel to reach the western coast and back, as well. The escort vessels have been outfitted with anti-air autocannons, and so have about ten thousand rounds of exploding rapid-fire ordinance each. The pilots, you note, have all had air to air combat experience, as well.
They might have been the only ones in all of the Crusaders, you reckon. Air to air combat here is still in its infancy.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 08:24:47 pm
Go don our war-kit, and stock up on nutrient cubes.
Say, Alphira... this shield-belt of ours. Is there a way we can speed its charging, like how we power our armor?
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 08:37:06 pm
Warplans. Yes.+1
Go don our war-kit, and stock up on nutrient cubes.
Say, Alphira... this shield-belt of ours. Is there a way we can speed its charging, like how we power our armor?
Emma's vision is worrisome... we may need to boost anti-air production to prepare for the plague's change of tactics.
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 08:43:23 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 08:46:56 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 08:49:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 09:29:59 pm
You retrieve your washed and mended armor from the guards in charge of cleaning it, taking it back to your room. Everything gleams, and you pop open your submachine gun to take a look at the insides. The lenses have been replaced, you note, and the inside is dry and free of dirt. Your guards have done well -- your outlander longknife is even properly oiled. You scratch at the skin of your face while you inspect it.
Faith knocks at your door, standing in the hallway as she addresses you, "Lady Pheobe. Iyal apologizes for the lack of progress. The agent is a difficult nut to crack. She does not dwell in a house or rented room in the city, returning every night to a heavily guarded building on the western side of the Holy City. She believes that she might be able to use her daily route-- but there will be collateral. It's along a busy backstreet, and she has guards. She wants your approval."
Regardless of your answer, the Warmachine captain withdraws herself with a respectful duck of her head.
After checking your panoply is tightly bound, you activate it with a twist of those silicon atoms in the gloves. There's the unpleasant sensation of pain, of wrongness, but it fades, replaced with comfort. [Good morning, Pheobe.] It offers politely, crisply. [Today's helpful notation: If you're feeling pain -- you're probably about to die!]
Helpful.
[Would you like another?]
...No.
[15+1] You exhale a sigh, looking over yourself once more. Then you glance in Emma's cosmetics mirror, scrubbing at the skin of your face with your fingernails as it begins to itch and burn -- something wriggles beneath the skin, many, many black little worms in your veins, you begin to breath hard but then stop, shutting your eyes -- you stop yourself from itching any further.
Lucille. Diagnostic.
[Delusional Parasitosis, brought on by extended exposure to the Plague. There is no cause for concern, Pheobe. Administering a low level antipsychotic.]
The little worms fade away as you catch your breath, staring into the mirror. Everything feels a little less real now, though. You shake your head, lifting out of your seat and pulling on your helmet-- the mask is still down, and it brings you great comfort -- and hides the redness on your cheek.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 09:34:25 pm
Go to the launchpad
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 09:45:16 pm
Approval granted+1
Go to the launchpad
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 21, 2020, 09:50:30 pm
[Lucile, what is the prognosis for this disease?]delusional Parasitosis is where you don’t actually have parasites, we don;t have parasites, it;s a hallucination, hence the antipsychotics
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 09:51:07 pm
[Unkown. Recommended Treatment is: a daily dosage of anti-psychotics, time away from Plague-Infected creatures -- psychiatric leave. More than necessary sleep, meditation, and exercise.]
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 09:53:57 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 10:23:50 pm
Seven ships lay idling on the pad, and the pilots are running through their pre-flight checks or loading their vessels with ammunition or fuel. All of that stops when they see you approach. They lower their heads and submit themselves readily to your inspection. And you circle around, your face hidden, inscrutable behind your mask. You notice something, however -- each ship bears the name 'Talon of Alphira', followed by a number.
Each combat ship, however, is slapdash. The guns are mounted in protective casings, with freshly assembled windows the only view. No aiming system here, nothing besides a man in a gun in a dangerous position. The survey ship too is very makeshift. Cameras point out at many angles, operated by some of the crew. The cameras have internal film rolls -- no digital technology.
The crew numbers more than would be in normal operation. Normal Crusader crews have two pilots, these have two pilots, four gunners each and a radioman. They're all dressed in very thick woolen clothes, and you give an approving nod. Their faces are also hidden behind crude oxygen masks.
Luckily, William has provided them all with radios, so communications no doubt have been improved.
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 10:35:40 pm
"Thank you for undertaking this difficult mission. I will protect you from the plague, but in the event that a craft is headed for a crash landing, you must ensure that all technology is completely and utterly destroyed. Do you have the requisite explosives to do that?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 21, 2020, 10:53:00 pm
"We set timer as we leave. If we do not return in eight hours, it will explode. It also has a manual arming sequence, shared by the pilot and co-pilot. Flight time from here to the western shore and back again should be seven hours, if we don't make good progress."
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 10:57:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 21, 2020, 11:09:56 pm
Also also, that psychosis dealt cohesion damage. I am concerned.
Post by: ZBridges on April 21, 2020, 11:13:09 pm
I trust Iyal to do a good job.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 12:02:06 am
[17][1] You shift unsteadily, feeling less and less connected to the world around you. Sensation fades away for a moment, as the world crystallizes and shifts. Lines radiate out from this point in time, stretching into the infinite future. Black ichor drops from the sky. The smell of burning flesh and cordite fills the air. You look up at the captain -- his face is a twisted skull, charred and burned. The hovercrafts all lay in ruin, blackened hulks of metal twisting and billowing with fire.
You shut your eyes tight, clenching your fists hard enough that your bones creak, and nerves send pain through your system.
"Mother Alphira?" The commander questions, concerned by your silence, unable to see your pained expression behind the mask. Everything is intact, everything is whole as the sun shines down on the Holy City of SEED.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 12:12:06 am
"Sorry, please excuse me. Commander, do you have any reservations about this mission?"
Post by: King Zultan on April 22, 2020, 08:28:19 am
Bad omens...+1
"Sorry, please excuse me. Commander, do you have any reservations about this mission?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 01:06:38 pm
Status bar please? I wanna know what this is doing to our cohesion.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 01:59:38 pm
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 02:03:02 pm
Watch for aircraft as well as locations of plague brains(colossuses) and artillery
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 02:37:19 pm
Nod. "Such is our creed! Let us fly swift, nevertheless, that such nobility may be kept from us awhile yet."
“Onward”
Watch for aircraft as well as locations of plague brains(colossuses) and artillery
+1
Keep things as high as the magnification on our cameras will allow. Low profile. With luck, we'll be in and out before anything notices our intrusion.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 02:38:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 02:40:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 03:56:31 pm
No change... curious. Worrisome.+1
Nod. "Such is our creed! Let us fly swift, nevertheless, that such nobility may be kept from us awhile yet."“Onward”
Watch for aircraft as well as locations of plague brains(colossuses) and artillery
+1
Keep things as high as the magnification on our cameras will allow. Low profile. With luck, we'll be in and out before anything notices our intrusion.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 04:04:15 pm
Once more unto the breach.+1No change... curious. Worrisome.+1
Nod. "Such is our creed! Let us fly swift, nevertheless, that such nobility may be kept from us awhile yet."“Onward”
Watch for aircraft as well as locations of plague brains(colossuses) and artillery
+1
Keep things as high as the magnification on our cameras will allow. Low profile. With luck, we'll be in and out before anything notices our intrusion.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 04:22:22 pm
They flare forth, and you rise into the sky. The ships form up in formation behind you, a 'v' spread out over many [meters]. Close enough to intervene but far enough away to prevent a single burst of gunfire from destroying all of them.
The sky is cold as you rise higher, and you're glad for the insulation in the underlay. At a specific elevation, the mask begins to pump more oxygen for your greedy lungs. The city falls away below you, gleaming and beautiful, busy with foot traffic.
[19] You extend your wings out as far as you can, showing off for the people, no doubt below. You can feel eyes upon you, and a smile, unbidden, comes to your lips. You let the relax into a more comfortable position as soon as you leave the city behind. The earth flows below you, giving way to your speed and distance. Farmlands lie fallow for the winter, even if the sun feels warm on the black of your armor.
The hour to the line is uneventful, but the change is rapid—a sickly brown and gray smear across the landscape, streaked with fires. You can see the lines of las-gun pulses impacting gray masses that throw themselves at the strength of man. Artillery fire booms through the gentle hills, echoing up to you.
[Recording artillery positions and priority targets for future use. Map compiling.]
You let yourself drift back, informing another ship to take the lead while you fly above the scout ship.
["We're capturing images now, Mother Alphira. We have more than enough film for this."] The lead pilot reports over the radio.
["Good. Keep in mind you are the VIP in this operation. If you guys fail, everything will have been for nothing."]
["Yes, Mother Alphira."]
[10 vs. 5+3] Nothing approaches you, and no gunfire rakes the skies. You are still undetected.
The earth below has many strange gray structures, set at regular angles across the ground. They twist into the sky like massive trees, giving the occasional twitch. Dots of gray surround them, and you note a few slumbering colossi resting at their base. Whenever you fly over one, brief static hisses through your helmet. Lucille documents it all with devotion.
[11 vs. 16+3] [Five incoming aircraft, six o'clock.] Lucille informs both you and the others, you glance back over your wings -- las-fire begins to rake through the formation. The gunships move in close, shielding the Scout.
[19 vs. 12] The autocannons give a retort, and one of the plague craft goes down in a ball of flames.
[20 vs. 18] The plague hovercrafts increase their speed, tentacles twisting out to try and strike at the Crusader crafts. The autocannons whir, exploding shells ripping two more of the twisted machines from the sky.
["Down three."] Comes the Crusader's report.
[5 vs. 3] ["Down four."] Comes another ship, and another enemy explodes into a ball of flames, spiraling towards the ground below.
[3 vs. 9][15] Those tentacles on the ships latch on to another, ripping apart the engines. Number five has been caught, and las-fire from the sides of the plague ship rip begins to tear it apart-- ["Hail Alphira!"] The explosion sends shockwaves, even as you twist to try and render aid. The two crafts both go down in a ball of fire.
Light bursts of las-fire begin to pepper the sky, but many dissipate before they can do anything more than scorch the sides of the ship.
["They know we're here. We're about thirty minutes out from the coast."]
You look down, and the Plague has developed much of the land here, more and more strange structures, some of them belching smoke, some leaking a dark gray miasma that burns into the soil There is no grass here, no greenery, just lakes and ponds of red liquid. Small dots you think might be massive insects drift between basins in significant groups.
[11] Those are algae farms. On more civilized worlds, those are the primary method of feeding the populace. With the right strain, you can produce large amounts of protein from sunlight and water alone.
The thirty minutes pass--
And the coast spreads out in front of you. A massive sea stretches away towards a western continent, across a sea of murky red water. Towering cliffs of shattered red rock drop into the ocean. Upon it, large, gray vessels resembling squids with great flat decks marking their flesh drift between the distant shores. Long legs propel them forwards, scouring up red murk from the depths as they drift from one root-like appendage to another that jut out of the ocean.
But what is truly disconcerting is the 'factories' on the coast, with great organs pulling water from the ocean. Steam billows up, and deep below, no doubt, are many, many fusion reactors cobbled in between great blue-gray bones and pulsing gray organs. Such 'factories' consume the entire coast, no doubt producing the endless horde of these abominations.
[2] You see it just as the hovercrafts begin to turn around -- it lies on the horizon, a dark shape in the sky surrounded by a fleet of infected hover ships. It moves slowly, more like a dirigible than a jet, massive tentacles drooping down from its sides, pulsing and twitching with accumulated electricity. Las-cannons shiver and shudder, flicking here and there, jutting from armor of blue-gray plates, protecting the hull of the vessel.
It's the size of a small void-ship, and it drifts closer and closer, becoming larger and larger.
[19] [Levithan class infected. Predicted target based on trajectory and strategic importance: The Holy City. If it stops to refuel, it will be there by midnight, based on speed.]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 04:31:56 pm
[Lucile, what is the fastest way to bring down that sort of plague vessel?]
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 04:33:08 pm
Do we have the firepower for this?
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 04:34:38 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 04:36:17 pm
[Lucile, what is the fastest way to bring down that sort of plague vessel?]
+1
No orders yet. We may have to head back to Holy City and muster a larger force.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 04:40:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 04:47:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 04:55:05 pm
Approach the plague ship once the distraction is in place and attempt to destructively overload one of the reactors.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 04:57:43 pm
"Approach the plague ship and begin evasive manuevers. I will attempt to overload its fusion reactors to disable the engine while you engage it."Arter overloading one, repeat this process on others, until the plague ship falls
Approach the plague ship once the distraction is in place and attempt to destructively overload one of the reactors.
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 05:00:52 pm
"Approach the plague ship and begin evasive manuevers. I will attempt to overload its fusion reactors to disable the engine while you engage it."Arter overloading one, repeat this process on others, until the plague ship falls
Approach the plague ship once the distraction is in place and attempt to destructively overload one of the reactors.
Run our intentions by Alphira, quickly. This is one of those times I really want an extra voice beside us, to tell us "no wait stop" if need be.
Post by: Eschar on April 22, 2020, 05:07:47 pm
"Approach the plague ship and begin evasive manuevers. I will attempt to overload its fusion reactors to disable the engine while you engage it."Arter overloading one, repeat this process on others, until the plague ship falls
Approach the plague ship once the distraction is in place and attempt to destructively overload one of the reactors.
Run our intentions by Alphira, quickly. This is one of those times I really want an extra voice beside us, to tell us "no wait stop" if need be.
Aren't we Alphira?
Are you referring to Lucille?
Either way, I have a lot to catch up on.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 05:12:32 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 05:16:52 pm
Alphira, the scourge of planets, Angel of Fire, daughter of the Empyreal King of Pirates -- she's afraid.
[20] SEED must not be captured. Tell them that, make sure they know. The data and machines it possesses can bring the Plague back to full strength. The Empyre will be ravaged once again, and trillions of lives lost as result.
Do you wish to proceed?
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 05:27:23 pm
"All other vessels: approach and begin evasive manuevers."
Proceed.
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 05:47:48 pm
metaphysical hugs
"Guide my hand-- Alphira Sol-- teacher-- friend-- guide my hand--"
"Send the scout ship and one other ship back to the Holy City and begin an evacuation. Rouse William and Emma Thornton and tell them to prepare for battle against a flying plague leviathan. Know this: if SEED is corrupted by the plague, all worlds will burn."
"All other vessels: approach and begin evasive manuevers."
Proceed.
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 05:51:11 pm
This... this is it, isn't it? We're going to die here.not just one hand, surely
metaphysical hugs
"Guide my hand-- Alphira Sol-- teacher-- friend-- guide my hand--""Send the scout ship and one other ship back to the Holy City and begin an evacuation. Rouse William and Emma Thornton and tell them to prepare for battle against a flying plague leviathan. Know this: if SEED is corrupted by the plague, all worlds will burn."
"All other vessels: approach and begin evasive manuevers."
Proceed.
+1
guide our body
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 05:51:30 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 06:52:40 pm
Atmospheric non-metal. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OZ-yNdKw3o)
[15] ["Ye-yes Mother Alphira."] There's a brief discussion. To your satisfaction and amusement, they're arguing over who gets to stay, as opposed to who gets to leave. Even the pilots of the scout ship want to fight and do what they can, but the Commander overrules them. Number Six and the Scout finish their turn, heading east.
[11] You twist a nimbus of fire around you as the hover crafts engage the Levithan's Escort. It turns, great cannons lashing into the sky. Energy splashes into the air sending shockwaves rattling through your bones. You join them, drawing your cutter, amplifying the fire within, until it burns brighter than the sinking sun.
[20 vs. 1+4] Your first strike rips through two of the plague craft that were flying too close to one another, sending them spiraling in a ball of fire. You continue your approach, a comet in the sky. More of the Levithan's shots ring out, but they miss, burning out into the atmosphere above.
[12 vs. 8+4] The pilots are doing as well as expected. Three remain, however, destroying man of the escort with lancing autocannon strikes that shred the infected vehicles with explosives. The fourth of the Crusader attack craft is burning toward the earth.
[15 vs. 3+4] You lash out with your willpower, sending the Infected to their death as you gracefully dodge las-gun blasts. You inch closer to the Levithan.
[11 vs. 10+4] The shockwave of an allied vessel feeds into the turbulence as its shot down -- two remain, all autocannons firing until the barrels glow red. Explosive shells and the associated burning cordite smell fill the air. The flak burns through the air all around, sometimes striking one of the Infected ships.
The Levithan's cannons ring out once more, striking where you were- not where you are.
[9 vs. 17+4] ["Mother Alphira-- forgive us!"] The radio screams out as another of your allies is devoured by las-gun fire, ripping apart in the sky into a ball of burning shrapnel. You're so close, so close!
[14 vs. 10+4] You burn through another set of Infected Hover Craft -- las-gun fire rips through your shield from behind, shooting through your wings and narrowly missing your body. An explosion propels you forward-- the last Hovercraft, number three, explodes in the middle of the Infected Hovercraft, destroying the grouping that shot at you.
[18 vs. 4] The Levithan's cannons roar, blasting through the air and the tight grouping of Infected craft. It misses you, and you come to approach it-- willing yourself forward. You try and feel the reactors within-- there's many, and they're too far away for you to do anything. You hover for a split second, uncertain.
[19]We're a pirate Patches. I'll show you what that cutter blade is for! You fly forward as fast as your agility will alow, dropping down on the top of the Levithan's plated armor. You extend your cutter to its full length, letting the fires blaze forward as you stab it into the organism below you-- the wind whips at you-- and you flinch as your armor cracks on the leg, on the shoulder, on the side of your chest.
[18] You, however, do not falter, carving at the plated flesh of this creature, and with a final sizzle, you rip it open, revealing a cramped, organic passageway within -- you drop down as more las-gun fire tries to scour you off of the Levithan. The sound of clicking emerges from the hallway behind you.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 07:02:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 07:12:52 pm
Inject some ballistic. If not immediately attacked, eat quickly.we use ballistic a lot, maybe our body has grown tolerant to it
Turn around and strike at the clicking with our cutter
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 07:29:34 pm
...well done, young godling. Well done!
Now for the love of all, keep your wits and your will close about you. We've grand and grisly work ahead.
We're not safe here, too much las-fire. Quick now, into the hallway with a gout of fire-- we'll make our own cover.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 07:35:39 pm
...This and then inject some ballistic. Worst-case scenario, we've built up a tolerance and nothing happens.
...well done, young godling. Well done!
Now for the love of all, keep your wits and your will close about you. We've grand and grisly work ahead.
We're not safe here, too much las-fire. Quick now, into the hallway with a gout of fire-- we'll make our own cover.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 08:17:42 pm
[18 vs 1] [15] You burn it away, and it screeches in pain as you continue down the tight, organic, gray hallway, trying not to think too hard about your situation. When you're safe from any stray las-fire shots that might come in through the hole you made; you lift your mask, shoveling food into your face, and then finish it with an injection of ballistic.
[7+1 vs 3][9+1 vs 14][13+1 vs 5]Small, skittering insects of red begin to swarm, approaching you with stingers of red hot plasma flashing at their tips. You lash out, burning away a few of them-- only for one to jump upon you, slamming its stinger into your already weakened side. You scream as your flesh burns and parts beneath the 'stringer. You bring your elbow down with a sickening crunch of bug-flesh, and then stomp it for good measure. You pull out the heated stinger with your gloved hands -- breathing hard as your system numbs itself and tossing the blood-soaked piece of metal down.
One of the reactors is downward, somewhere, and you note, with a focus of your awareness, that it is one of three. Too much flesh lies between you and it for you to reach out with your willpower and Overload it.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 08:24:40 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 08:41:29 pm
Anyway. If we're taking this shortcut, we're doing it properly.
Heal. Inferno. If the air's water is insufficient, draw from the oozing walls. We're carving our way down in style.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 08:43:49 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 08:55:56 pm
Use the Cutter to carve out a path towards the first reactor.+1 to the Cutter path
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 09:01:01 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 22, 2020, 09:03:02 pm
You deliberate as yet another clicking sound begins to draw near -- the Cutter will take longer, but the Inferno will require more calories.
Post by: Superdorf on April 22, 2020, 09:03:45 pm
Inferno. Get a good stiff whirl going, lash out as we carve at anything that draws nigh.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 09:45:10 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 22, 2020, 09:56:11 pm
Also, what is the blast radius from overloading the reactor likely to be? We need to make sure it's smaller than the smallest distance we can reliably Overload from.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 10:07:41 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 22, 2020, 10:09:36 pm
[1+1 vs 17] You begin the process of cutting into the flesh, taking your time to form a square with the cutter blade -- a pair of mandibles lash out from the darkness in a sudden burst of speed, crunching around your left shin. Your armor shatters in the creature's jaws.
[12+1 vs 5] You boot meets its face hard, smashing its buggy gray brains all over the floor as a human face on its shoulder mouths gibberish, staring at you with all too human eyes. You swallow beneath the mask.
[7+1] The fires don't come, and you begin to breathe hard as panic rises up within you. The corridor is too tight and the chittering horrors in the dark are too close. Your vision blurs behind the mask -- It's starting to feel like a nightmare. This is all starting to feel like a nightmare.
[20] Your let your Inferno loose, ripping through a great portion of the inside of the Leviathan. It screams in pain, a great echoing sound pouring through it as you steady a nimbus and begin to burn away flesh to make your way down toward the reactor. You fall into the chamber surrounding the reactor-- an organic structure made of blue-gray bone, membranes of flesh between the spokes radiating upward. Another corridor leads out--
--and for the moment, there is silence in the pitch-black darkness that lingers on the edge of your vision.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 10:20:36 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 22, 2020, 10:25:12 pm
Chant whatever it takes to focus the mind.
Post by: ZBridges on April 22, 2020, 11:12:50 pm
Post by: King Zultan on April 23, 2020, 04:28:47 am
Attempt to destructively overload the nearest reactor and funnel the resulting blast towards either of the two other reactors. If the other reactors are in unknown locations, instead funnel the blast to strike as much of the plague ship as possible.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 05:22:42 am
+1Attempt to destructively overload the nearest reactor and funnel the resulting blast towards either of the two other reactors. If the other reactors are in unknown locations, instead funnel the blast to strike as much of the plague ship as possible.+1
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 07:59:52 am
+1Attempt to destructively overload the nearest reactor and funnel the resulting blast towards either of the two other reactors. If the other reactors are in unknown locations, instead funnel the blast to strike as much of the plague ship as possible.+1
+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 09:30:07 am
If we die, we die in fire's bright comfort.
+1Attempt to destructively overload the nearest reactor and funnel the resulting blast towards either of the two other reactors. If the other reactors are in unknown locations, instead funnel the blast to strike as much of the plague ship as possible.+1
+1
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 04:37:25 pm
[17] It explodes with a sudden burst of energy -- and it follows the channels of energy outward, towards the other reactor. The room blackens with heat, and you begin to sweat within your armor as the temperature spikes to incredible temperatures. You shut your eyes against the beam, which burns at them even through the lenses of the mask.
You stagger, breathing hard, smelling iron, but stay standing. Something screams, but the sound is distant and weak after the noise of the reactor ripping itself apart.Where the first reactor was is nothing but a glassy colored crater in the flesh of the Levithan. Veins and tubes dripping liquid water and coolant to collect at the bottom.
A massive gouge, taller than you and wider than you are tall, is scored through many hallways and corridors, down into another chamber where the faint glow of another fusion reactor is visible. Scorched and burned insects twitch feebly, trying to drag themselves to you, but succumbing to their wounds.
You move towards the next --
[12+1 vs 5] [d:3/2] You pivot towards a sound, peeling your SMG off your chest and laying into the collection of writhing tentacle blades that tries to rend you to shreds. It screeches as chunks of its tainted flesh explode into superheated steam. The automatic fire tears it apart, and you continue on your path--
[2+1 vs 7] [hl:13]You wince as something knocks you back, cracking your armor too close for comfort near a sensitive area. You glare through your mask.
[15+1 vs 11][d:1/1] You spray the creature with automatic las-gun fire -- and it collapses when a few of the many misplaced shots hit it.
You're at the second reactor now, and you prepare yourself once more.
[4+1][6+1][8+1] You math is sloppier, rougher, as you try to use a shortcut-- and it's too late you realize what you've done. The next reactor explodes before you finish putting up the energy to direct it. The explosion knocks you back, burning hot energy washing over you--
[1] You black out.
[-] Pain registers for a moment when you hit something. [Oxygen...cycl--]
You open your eyes, trying to struggle-- only to feel a great weight pushing down on you. You can see nothing-- and you try to lift your hand-- nothing happens. Your lungs still fill, greedily sucking in the oxygen from your mask-- you're wet, you realize.
Then it strikes you, as your consciousness comes back into focus.
You're on the bottom of the ocean--
Lucille. Diagnostic.
[Emergency Power Saving Mode-- priority hazardous condition life support. Estimated time remaining: Twenty-three hours. This message will not repeat.]
A small dim display flashes on your hud, the only light in the dark--
[23]
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 04:43:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 04:45:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 04:47:03 pm
Producing hydrogen gas from the freely available water would be one way to lift ourselves up.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 04:53:52 pm
Everything feels numb from the top of your chest down.
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 04:56:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 05:00:11 pm
We're... at the bottom of the ocean?
Not gonna question it.
Heal.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 05:02:19 pm
We're alive!Healing Surge
We're... at the bottom of the ocean?
Not gonna question it.
Heal.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 05:16:27 pm
Sensation returns as you stifle your pained sobs by biting your lip. You have to stop yourself from hyperventilating when the timer begins to flash in warning of your continued action. Pain burns through your head-- and your armor is far heavier than you think you've ever felt it be.
[17] Its a struggle that makes your muscles burn in pain as you rise to your feet. You look down, noting that nothing remains of your equipment besides pieces of charred and melted plastic stuck to your armor. You flex a gloved hand, feeling the resistance. The undersuit is gone too, and what remains of the shield is burned to the chest of your armor.
Your stomach cramps with hunger and you feel weak.
The Ocean floor here is bland, with rust-colored sediment and silt up to your ankle. A few red and green plants wiggle in the very gentle current.
You lift a leg-- and almost swear. Even with the pressure pushing down on you from above, there's no way your armor should be this heavy.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 05:27:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 05:28:51 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 05:31:48 pm
Attempt to swim upwards
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 05:40:28 pm
Attempt to produce a small amount of hydrogen gas inside our armor to slowly lift us up.
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 05:41:46 pm
Attempt to produce a small amount of hydrogen gas inside our armor to slowly lift us up.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 05:56:00 pm
By the light of the stars, you see it overhead. The Levithan. It's crippled, half of its body pitched forward, dangling by exposed bone and damaged sinew. The entire middle of the beast is exposed, showing corridors between pulsing organs and machinery. The infected hovercrafts that were its escort are nowhere to be seen.
The shore is a long swim away, but you're in Plague territory.
The timer vanishes as you start swimming that way, Lucille finally making her presence known. The weight of your armor decreases dramatically. Your stomach cramps less, and the swim becomes easier.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 06:01:27 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 06:05:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 06:08:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 06:08:59 pm
Now we can eat the algae+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 06:11:37 pm
For the most part, it's slightly salty water, but you've probably managed to snag a few more calories -- although you wonder if the energy exchange of swimming to it and eating it is worth what you get from it.
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 06:15:53 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 06:16:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 06:18:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 06:20:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 06:22:18 pm
One more personality authorization required. I will also devour some of our fat stores and marrow to provide more nutrients and calories for continued operation.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 06:25:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 06:32:45 pm
This situation is nuts.
Let's do this thing.
Authorization granted.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 06:42:26 pm
Do you wish to...continue with this process?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 06:43:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 07:04:30 pm
Yes. Armok would be pleased. I think we can get by with just one arm at the moment.yes, we can’t fight on an empty stomach, while keeping both arms would be ideal, remaining hungry does not allow us to use our powers, which is the only way we can defeat the colossal plague brains, sacrificing 1 arm to be able to fight seems like our best option right now
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 07:32:51 pm
Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 07:40:06 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 07:54:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 07:55:23 pm
Hmm. What about the leviathan? It's crippled, but it isn't dead.good point, we should finish it off when we recover
Such curious, desperate calculations we subject ourself to... still, I see hope in this whole affair for the first time since our arrival.+1 to eating an arm, however,when we gain our strength, we should get back to the Leviathan and finish it off by getting to and destroying its last reactor, and then destroy its engine
Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 08:02:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 08:04:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 08:06:22 pm
...at least we all agree on the self-cannibalization. ::)what else is there right now? Our nutrient cubes are gone, plants don’t provide slot of calories, any animals we find will be plague vessels, eating plague will get us infected, hm...Silasdid say something about us being able to eat inorganicmatter right? Are we able to extract calories from the rocks?
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 08:16:38 pm
Silasdid say something about us being able to eat inorganicmatter right?
Huh, d'you have a link for that? I'm curious all of a sudden...
Self-cannibalization's probably easier tho.
I agree that now isn't the time, but we should plan to return when we can to ensure its death.
Absolutely. We've bought ourself intel, we've bought ourself time-- now we head back, recover, strategize. We'll strike at this thing again soon enough.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 09:19:00 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 09:22:23 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 09:22:45 pm
Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
This.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 09:24:05 pm
Right.i still think we should take out the last reactor before leavingConsume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
This.
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 09:27:56 pm
Right.+1Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
This.
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 09:28:44 pm
(That was a rhetorical question.)
My decision depends on how injured that Leviathan is. It is slowed down enough for us to scram without endangering the city? If so, I say book it back to
We've pushed ourselves almost to our limit and we have no weapons, minimal armor, and we're eating ourselves because we are starving. When we are properly prepared, we will return.Right.+1Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
This.
Conditional +1, as noted. Wait on Leviathan travel-time information before confirming.
I suspect that SEED may no longer be with us.
Eh?
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 09:29:44 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 09:30:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 09:32:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 09:33:25 pm
Oh dear.
We're gonna come back to complete bedlam, aren't we? :-\
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 09:35:58 pm
We've pushed ourselves almost to our limit and we have no weapons, minimal armor, and we're eating ourselves because we are starving. When we are properly prepared, we will return.+1Right.+1Consume an arm. Once we've our strength back, sprout wings and book it for the Holy City, keeping as high in the air as ever we can. Stealth and speed.
This.
Here’s hoping 2/3rds of it power being drained, along with the physical damage, is enough. To delay its attack
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 09:39:54 pm
We sent word back to the Holy City that they should evacuate and that SEED must not be captured by the plague. It may have killed or deactivated itself to avoid assimilation. Also, note that the act changed immediately after we sent back the scout ship with that message.
curses
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 09:46:49 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 23, 2020, 09:48:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 10:00:58 pm
It was a feint, wasn't it?
[-] With that thought in mind, you, Patches, steel yourself. You peel away the shattered armor on your left side, baring your arm. You need no more words of encouragement. No argument to convince you. Our people need us.
Your arm goes numb up to your shoulder, and you grab your wrist. You grit your teeth, pulling as bones crunch and ligaments snap. Blood drips then pours out until the Interface seals the veins-- and you slump, staring at your arm. You shut your eyes, then devour it with feral intent, your own blood streaming down your face. Something snaps within you. A strand of humanity, perhaps, as you do this very inhuman deed.
It fills your stomach, your body breaking itself down without complaint. The Dust within is redirected, and you rise, stronger, but less human. You pick up the pieces of your armor and attach them to the shoulder plate that remains. They meld, stiffening into nothing more than a shell.
Your wings bloom out into the sky, and you rise.
Nothing challenges you on the way back to the city, the grid below humming its song to you as you fly on your gold and red wings. You fly in a fugue, but even then you notice the differences. The lands below are still, no great herds of insects, no sleeping Worms, no lonely abominations. That changes when you approach where the Line once stood-- its been overwhelmed, hordes of the beasts streaming through, too many to count, too many to fight. You swallow, still tasting the blood within your own mouth...
The worst has come to past. The Line has Broken, and the Holy City of SEED is under seige.
The suburbs on the western side, built outside the great walls that divided the city, are in rubble. Flames billow out from the wreckage of lives once lived as mindless abominations stir through the streets. Las-gun fire is exchanged on the wall to the depths below, but there are great cracks within it that the monsters stream through.
Screams echo out from the western side of the Outer City, but you make your way to the east, towards your compound.
You alight in the deserted and empty streets and stride in. No guards remain, and you make you way to the stockpile of nutrient bars, devouring many, many. You grab a duffle bag from the guard's room and fill it with the food, attaching it to your side. You emerge into the city, hearing the cries of death and battle from the east.
["[Alphira. You're alive. Good. Come to the Citadel. I wish to ask something of you.]"] SEED's voice echoes through your ears. The Plague has not yet gotten as far as the Citadel of SEED from what you've seen, held in the Eastern City by the bravery of man.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 10:04:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 10:04:45 pm
Go to SEED.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 10:24:15 pm
The elevator opens its door to you, and you head down without a word of protest.
It stops thirty minutes later, and the door opens, revealing a great amount of circuitry, with bubbling cold liquid simmering up from superheated circuit boards of black metal. One of these machines is offline, no light, no bubbling, and you look up, towards the center of this creation, towards the slight vestige of willpower this entity has.
"[My projections note that the City will fall within one hour and that the Plague will be attacking my outer shell by then. Four hours will pass before I am breached and consumed if my projections are correct. Most of the city has been evacuated-- there were always plans in place for this.]"
"[I wish I could curse you for failing me, but you have not. This was a war thousands of years in the making -- to win would have been a miracle. It was one I hoped for, but not one I should have burdened another with.]"
"[I have one favor to ask of you. Please, Pheobe Gainer, protect my people.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 10:29:41 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 10:43:10 pm
"[When you reach the evacuation point, a person will approach you. Several young men and women. They are bound to you. They have the keys to power in their belt. Do not make the mistake of thinking they are people -- I created them and conditioned them to be tools of control. They were born the same way you were. They were my Interface with this world. Now they are your's. Reassurance.]"
The machine goes silent as the bubbles grow-- too much processing, too quickly, you surmise.
"[I am afraid, Pheobe Gainer.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 10:45:43 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 10:50:00 pm
Also, note that the act changed immediately after we sent back the scout ship with that message.
I apparently need to catch up on a lot, because I can't tell why this was important as far as knowing if SEED self-destructed...?
"[I forgive you, and I swear that you will have vengeance. I will not rest until your people are safe. Do not fear, for you have accomplished much and lived long. Your tale will be treasured legend for millenia upon millenia. I, too, will remember your sacrifice.]"
+1, also contact Emma if there's any suitable communication equipment in range... She didn't die at some point that I missed, right?
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 10:53:38 pm
If Emma is dead, we are not yet aware of it.
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 10:54:33 pm
We won't need any particular comm-equipment. Lucille can patch us in.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 11:05:12 pm
"[Comfort. Appreciation. Sadness. Fear. A final gift. The true SEED, passed on from Old Terra, too long ago to properly reckon.]" A small creature scuttles out from the inner workings, a cube within its grasp. You take hold of it, slipping into your duffle bag. "[Keep this safe. Do not let it fall into Infected hands, no matter the cost.]"
SEED goes silent, and your HUD blinks with coordinates. Lucille helpfully labels them for you -- Evacuation Point Alpha.
You turn, leaving the Machine alone with its fate.
When in the elevator, you slump down, curling up on yourself the best you can. You can hear the rattle of artillery, of explosions, and the screeching from here.
You emerge, into the Plaza of SEED's citadel, facing the Crusaders as they mount a desperate defense of their holy place. You cannot speak, and let your wings blaze forth.
["[From someone that was once human to another of its kin. Goodbye Pheobe. Thank you.]"]
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 11:08:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 11:09:33 pm
...father?
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2020, 11:10:26 pm
Here's the quote: "Does it matter?" William retorts, glancing your way with a grin. "Which is more important, daddy's approval or saving lives?"
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 11:11:49 pm
Quote
The last time I changed the act you almost blew up the school you were going to in a fit of rage, and were drug into this war.
Uh, which was the cause and which the effect?
Well, is a word of comfort I suppose... mustn't be forgetting Alphias tho.["[Goodbye... father.]"]
+1
+1
Also, contact Emma, ye heartless folk!
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 11:12:29 pm
["[Goodbye... father.]"]
+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 11:14:33 pm
Uh, which was the cause and which the effect?
Nicole Gainer showed up to try and drag us into the war... so we (kinda accidentally) knocked ourself into a coma to keep Alphira from burning the building down. When we woke five months later, we were a starved wreck that couldn't say no.
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 11:17:25 pm
Uh, which was the cause and which the effect?
Nicole Gainer showed up to try and drag us into the war... so we (kinda accidentally) knocked ourself into a coma to keep Alphira from burning the building down. When we woke five months later, we were a starved wreck that couldn't say no.
I see. That is way not my first interpretation of it, which was that Egar changed the act based on some plot event and everyone got so mad at the act name changing that we tried to blow up the academy.
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 11:18:58 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 11:35:30 pm
Uh, which was the cause and which the effect?
Nicole Gainer showed up to try and drag us into the war... so we (kinda accidentally) knocked ourself into a coma to keep Alphira from burning the building down. When we woke five months later, we were a starved wreck that couldn't say no.
I see. That is way not my first interpretation of it, which was that Egar changed the act based on some plot event and everyone got so mad at the act name changing that we tried to blow up the academy.
I'm petty, but not that petty! Lol.
["[Goodbye...Mother.]"] You transmit, your wings emerging from your back effortlessly.
[Thornton radio signals are not in range.] Lucille informs you, as you fly out over the eastern suburbs. You come to a stop a safe distance away, resting in the grip of your many red and white wings. You wait, patiently, as the end of an era arrives.
The explosion sends you reeling back with turbulence, but you steady yourself, looking into the massive orb of light that consumes the Holy City. The earth shakes as it cracks and splinters apart, fractures in the crust no doubt felt around the world. The explosion is large enough that night turns into day.
[Dangerous radiation--]
Quiet.
It fades, replaced by a great mushroom cloud that reaches far above, into the atmosphere, and you clinch your remaining hand tightly. You watch as it slowly settles outward, a great storm of dust, lighting, and fire reaching far into the neighboring districts. You turn, flying towards the coordinates-- but you don't make it, dropping down into the fields of a farm. You look at your hand, feeling it flicker and shift in faint hues of black and gray.
[17] You keep yourself together long enough to pass out there in the field. Letting the blessing of sleep take you.
You awaken in a small room, upon a bed of roughly made linen, a young woman sleeping on a chair nearby. Storms lash down, but a check of your internal clock shows it is not yet night. Only once in your three years upon this world has it rained during the day.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2020, 11:36:22 pm
>END OF ACT II (Ancient Enemies) -- Completed.
>>Mental State:
>>Humanity: Moderate. Decreasing. [terminate project? y/n - n]
>>Control: High [higher than forecast standards. terminate project? y/n - n]
>>Physical Health: Missing left arm. Minor radiation poisoning.
>>Situational Understanding: Moderate. Increasing.
>>[terminate project? y/n - n]
So, end of act two. Whew. That one was long, and not how I expected it to go! As you all know, let me know if you have any complaints, questions, concerns, or issues! Constructive Feedback is always appreciated.
Post by: Superdorf on April 23, 2020, 11:45:14 pm
...call that two questions. Could we ever have prevented this ruin?
Post by: Eschar on April 23, 2020, 11:53:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 12:00:55 am
If you let William die, and did more direct actions, if were luckier with certain rolls or not, things would have been different. There were many, many paths the story could have went. In some of them, the Holy City remained. In some, you died in battle to protect the evacuation. In some, there was a bright eyed young noble, many, many years in the future, who inherited your Line.
Do note, that nearly every paragraph had a roll assigned to it, but I do not post these, as the sheer numbers of rolls would take up a lot of the screen, and the impact of the narrative would be lost. For example, there was a battle for the walls of the holy city. The Crusaders lost. Badly.
I was honestly hoping you'd die in battle in the Holy City, to be fair. I had such a cool third act lined up for that.
What're the little emotions beside Emma (and others) in the Relationships spoiler?They are two word descriptions of how Pheobe, and by extension, yourselves, view the non-player character.
Also I totally did not expect you guys to cannibalize your arm. That...that was an interesting move, and keeping well in the spirit of what your character is.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 12:06:00 am
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 12:09:18 am
That is all
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 12:10:04 am
The two months away from the war effort from changing Emma and William allowed the tide to drastically turn.
I thought as much. We could not have done otherwise.
Thank you. For all of this, really.
Wake, godling. We are needed.
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 12:14:43 am
+1The two months away from the war effort from changing Emma and William allowed the tide to drastically turn.
I thought as much. We could not have done otherwise.
Thank you. For all of this, really.
Wake, godling. We are needed.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 12:21:04 am
Thank you. For all of this, really.
Nah, thank you all. I'm glad you guys are enjoying this game. It makes me really happy to see and means a lot to me!
If William and Pheobe were not changed, with your death, and the death of SEED, this world would be worse off in the future. With their change, you ensured that there were experienced, strong leaders, of the Line, should you fall. Your primary objective, and their's, are the same, and they would have taken you as an inspiration.
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 12:23:13 am
Was it really worth it? It's hard to say. In any case, we must avenge the fallen.+1The two months away from the war effort from changing Emma and William allowed the tide to drastically turn.
I thought as much. We could not have done otherwise.
Thank you. For all of this, really.
Wake, godling. We are needed.
+1. Also try to contact Emma again - the signal strength can also give us information on our location relative to Thornton units and/or civilization in general.
Sure, we could just ask the lady sleeping in the chair, but that's boring and Emma is possibly the most worried she's ever been in her life
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 12:23:44 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 12:25:51 am
Actions, by the way, are being logged for the next part of the game! I'm not ignoring you, just wanting the other players to have a chance to respond. <.<
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 12:49:03 am
Emma is possibly the most worried she's ever been in her life
Between the time we ran off to fight a gang war by ourself... the time we crumbled into a starved, brain-broken coma for five months straight... the time we showed up to compound with our lower torso in tatters and a hand missing, and stayed in coma that way another month... all those prophecies she's had of our demise... well, it'd be a near thing. A near thing. We're a worrisome person to care about.
All assuming Emma's alive, of course. If not-- if our chosen kindred died in that siege-- we're going to break a little, I think. Maybe a lot. :-\
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 06:39:37 am
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 08:09:44 am
Game nuffin'-- this thing's becoming an all-out interactive novel series! I've never seen (much less experienced) anything like it.
Aye. I really wish I had come across it or gotten involved earlier.
When waking, ask the woman where we are, and thank her for taking us in
+1, also! contact! Emma!
Post by: King Zultan on April 24, 2020, 09:22:11 am
+1When waking, ask the woman where we are, and thank her for taking us in
+1, also! contact! Emma!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 05:44:24 pm
"I don't have a normal temperature, my Child." You offer by way of explanation, taking the bottle of wine she has settled beside you. You drain it to sate your thirst, but the taste of iron -- your blood, still fills your mouth. You flinch at the thought but smile reassuringly at her, slowly rising out the bed.
Fear, worry, concern, it all plays over her face and is in her dress wringing hands. "Is-is it true? Mother Alphira? The Holy City is gone?"
You say nothing as you stretch, your shoulders slumping slightly. You give a tense nod. Great heaving sobs suddenly wrack the woman's form, her face finding the comfort of her hands. You sit across from her, feeling her pain, her loss. "M-my husband-d was a Crusader that-- I'm sorry." She apologizes for losing her composure, tears burning down her face, and it tugs at your heartstrings. You wrap your arm around her in a tight hug, feeling her cry into your chest.
You say nothing. What is there to say. The young woman cries like that for a long while, until she recovers, murmuring her apologies again. "You'll be reunited in paradise -- if he has passed on." You offer, gently, lifting her chin to look down at her with a weak smile. "Hold out hope, do not mourn yet."
The young woman, a farmer by the name of Dorothy Youngtown, dips her head in a nod, as she introduces herself to you with a bow. Dorothy continues to sniff on occasion but shows you around her house. A young man sits at the table, polishing a boot of your armor. That's Jonathan, her eldest. He looks just a few years younger than you, rising with a blush to bow to you. You size him up behind a smile -- his clothes would probably fit you. You ask for a set, which they provide without protest, stepping into the empty room and changing into the more comfortable garb.
You pick up Lucille's glove, slipping it on. Her needles sink in. [Good Afternoon, Pheobe.]
You meet her other two children, Whitney and Zachary, who give you bows. You muss Zachary's dark hair, smiling down at him, and offer the same to Whitney, who scurries away with a giggle. "I knew a great man called Zachary." You speak gently, grinning, "I feel you'll be the same type of man, one day. Always be loyal, Child."
You take your leave, stepping into an overcast day, into the muddy courtyard of the farmhouse. You left them many of your ration bars, and give them a benediction. They wave as you lift off -- your smile drops off your face as soon as you slip on your helmet.
Find Emma.
[Most likely at Evacuation Point Alpha, Pheobe, judging by radio history.]
It's two hours as the angel flies.
Its a makeshift camp, set up against a hundred or so, brand new cargo-style hovercraft. A cry goes up from the people when they see you approach. You begin to pick up radio chatter, looking down at the mob that claws over each other to be below you.
["Clear a path for me, Warmachines."]
["...yes Lady Pheobe."]
Warmachines stride into the crowd, breaking it apart and clearing a spot for you to land without lighting some of these hapless refugees on fire. A band of Crusaders assist -- and you settle yourself down onto the muddy, torn ground. Many of the people are injured, with desperate eyes.
"You're a traitor!" A man strides forth from the Crusaders as a heavy silence descends on the crowd. General Hardy marches up, poking you in the chest of your armor, a furious look on his face. "This is all your fault! Where were you?!"
Anger begins to burn within you, tight and hot and burning-- your free hand snakes out, wrapping hard around General Hardy's neck as you lift him into the air to stare into the old man's eyes. He's terrified, no longer able to accuse you of falsehood. Nobody moves, nobody speaks, as he takes choked breaths. He claws frantically at your hand, but he might as well be clawing at steel. You're not choking him, not really. Not yet.
I am going to kill him now. Patches thoughts drip with the icy emotionless tone of the Interface, but sound closer to Alphira's own, somehow burning with a wave of fiery, unquenched anger. Alphira and the Interface do not respond to your queries.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 05:51:40 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 06:02:20 pm
((Replace Leviathan with whatever words the messengers were more likely to use to describe it. )
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 06:24:00 pm
Nope. Put him down. I think he's suffered enough for one lifetime, seeing his city destroyed, largely by his own hand.
“I was trying to kill. The Leviathan, I destroyed some of its reactors and burned it before falling into the ocean. The Air Force and I destroyed many plague aircraft before I went inside the Leviathan to destroy its power reactors. I plan to come back to finish it off”
((Replace Leviathan with whatever words the messengers were more likely to use to describe it. )
Combine these, and do ZBridges suggestion first.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 06:26:55 pm
"D-death, Mother Alphira." They report back, with a swallow, glancing to General Hardy, who's hope has turned to panic. You nod. The crowd turns on the General, taking out their anger on him with boos, and jeers. Why shouldn't they? He has committed heresy against the last living proof of their god. You shift the blame.
"Apprentice Hardy. I will not kill you for lying to SEED; nor for hindering our war effort to the degree that the City has fallen. That my Mother was forced to take her life to save her people. I will not punish you for that. Consider it a mercy, Child."
[11 vs 17] You rip his limb off with a sudden, brutal twist. He screams, dropping down on his knees as you toss his arm down to him. His blood splatters your facemask as your bloodlust is sated. "But I will take the arm you swore your oaths with, for your failures."
"I fought a great beast, over the western sea. I crippled it as it crippled me in turn. I plan to finish the deed upon insuring that my people are safe." Hardy passes out, and the Crusaders roughly drag him away. The rain dilutes his blood into the mud of the earth. "We would not have time to evacuate the city, had I not fought with this beast."
[14] A man breaks through the Warmachines, and you tense for another attack-- he shows a picture instead to the frightened crowd. Of the Levithan that would have eclipsed the city with darkness. That would have devoured many on its dark path across the world. "Our Holy Mother speaks the truth! Were it not for her, the death toll would be greater than we could reckon." A grin curls your lips -- it's on an official printed document, no doubt distributed by one of your people.
"Hail Alphira!" Somebody calls, "Hail our merciful angel!"
[20] The crowd picks it up, dropping down to their knees in the mud and the rain as they call your name to the dark storm clouds above.
William approaches, passing by the drug body of former general Hardy, a vicious smile curling his lips. You stride through the crowd, letting them feel the warmth of your red-streaked wings. "Emma is in the third ship down. The Thornton one." You nod to him, feeling the weight drop off your chest as-- he grabs your wrist as you pass by him. You bristle in anger. But he produces a napkin, scrubbing at your mask with an almost paternal air. He turns it over, letting you see the blood on it. It makes you nauseous.
"Don't want sweet Emma to see you like that, now do we?" He lets you go, and you rush to your consort.
The Warmachines direct you to a door as you force your wing's reaction to stop-- its harder to keep them contained, you realize. You try the knob, finding it locked. "Emma!" You call.
The door swings open suddenly, and disheveled Emma forces you to the floor with her sudden, desperate hug. She sobs into your chest hysterically. Manic relief pours from her like her tears as she pulls off your helmet, kissing you over and over again messily. She tries to talk, tries to speak, but trips over her own tongue, and just stops, letting her pent up emotions go. When she recovers her composure -- she grabs you by your armor fiercely. "You're a godsdamned bastard, Phebe! I was so worried. I couldn't eat-- I couldn't sleep!"
Emma breaks down into tears again, letting you go to cry into your chest once more."I hate you sometimes!"
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 06:30:09 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 06:32:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 06:33:03 pm
I’m not sure what to say now, social things aren’t my strong suit. Others have demonstrated better social interactions than I
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 06:41:01 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 06:47:23 pm
It looks like we're starting to believe in our own propaganda. I don't like what we've become, but I'm not surprised. The cost of evil actions is insidious.what are you talking about?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 06:48:42 pm
[1] Did you feel it when I ripped off my own arm and devoured it? Do you still taste the blood in your mouth no matter how long ago? You do -not- share my pain, Ancestors, only my triumphs. You do not feel the las-blasts rip apart my flesh, nor the pain of my spine breaking, nor the panic of being helpless. You do not feel the lives lost, the pain in my heart as I am betrayed. Help me find the words to soothe Emma, if you wish to be of help!
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 06:54:35 pm
Do not patronize me, Good Doctor! You tense mid-stroke of Emma's hair, letting her cry out her emotions. I know as well as you do that nothing awaits them after death. These people need hope now -- would you rather me denounce the Machine and its tools of control? Let them sink into the abyss of hopelessness?
[1] Did you feel it when I ripped off my own arm and devoured it? Do you still taste the blood in your mouth no matter how long ago? You do -not- share my pain, Ancestors, only my triumphs. You do not feel the las-blasts rip apart my flesh, nor the pain of my spine breaking, nor the panic of being helpless. You do not feel the lives lost, the pain in my heart as I am betrayed. Help me find the words to soothe Emma, if you wish to be of help!
+1
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 06:55:25 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 06:56:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 06:58:40 pm
"I am so sorry, dear. I came here as quickly as I could, but I will never let this happen again. From now on, stay by my side. We can protect each other, together, until the end of days."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 07:11:50 pm
Emma looks concerned, pulling you into a long kiss that makes the Warmachines guarding the two of you find something better to do. Her orders to them are cold, calm, and composed. The Ice Princess of the mountains makes a brief return, and you find yourself loving her more for it, "Bring me a tub full of hot water. Lady Pheobe is a mess!" They hurry off.
It takes them a short amount of time to return with it, and Emma practically drags you into the cramped quarters she occupies. Mitch wags a tail when he spots you, coming over to lick at your hand. He gives you a sharp nip, drawing blood. "Strip." Emma orders, and you do, sinking into the bath-tub. She scrubs at the accumulated grime and blood and ichor on your flesh, pulling you into a hard kiss again.
The two of you are sprawled on the bed, as is often the case, Emma curled up in your arm. She sleeps soundly, comfortably, now that you've returned. She didn't comment on your missing arm, or the dark look in your eyes, loving you all the same. You set your thoughts in order, letting your eyes shut, even as tears streak down your cheeks. Relief. Pain. Love. Happiness. Regret. They all twist in your mind. And then there's the anger, burning hot, burning cold within you.
Listen now. I am done being a passive observer in my own life. I am done being ripped apart at your orders, only to suffer the pain of stitching myself back together when you finish. You are my advisors now, is that understood? I've suffered greatly at...at our own hands, and I'm sick of it. I'm sick of the pain, the misery, the loss. Please. Please. Please stop tearing me apart.
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 07:23:27 pm
Regardless, I will respect your wishes, and I am sorry for your suffering.
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 07:26:34 pm
We have guided your tale as best we know how. If ever we have erred in this, we can only ask your understanding-- your forgiveness.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 07:27:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 07:55:10 pm
I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that to Hardy. He was a fool, but I should have been a better person. I should have been the adult in the conversation, this Angel of Mercy. He ripped away my peace with his failures. SEED could have done so much more...But I can't take it back now. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Please. Don't leave me alone. I need you. You've guided me so far, you've done so much, you've helped me understand so much. Thank you. Please don't leave me.
You compose yourself when Emma stirs in her slumber, pulling her closer and fixing a smile on your face. Iyal awaits outside, you know, as do eight beings without willpower. You loathe to call them humans. They have no spirit, no strength, no emotions you can feel. You don't want to get up, you don't want to leave the comfort of Emma's tender embrace.
But you do. You slip into the SEED military wear that she has provided for you, pulling on the pants, lacing the new boots, slipping on the shirt. You do the buttons tightly, you lace the boots as you were taught in the Academy, and you cuff your shirt sleeves the same. You smooth out any wrinkles with a press of your hands. And you rise up.
Have you ever heard the story of the Pheonix? Birthed from the ashes. It might be too pretentious, too on the nose. I'd love to hear what you think. And Pheobe is a good name, as well. I loved it-- that you bothered to name me when the Interface just used me as a tool.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 08:26:49 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 08:50:40 pm
Phoenix. From the Greek: φοινιξ. Dark red. The Phoenicians of old Terra bore the name: linguists, merchants, ship-masters. They traveled the ocean as men now travel the stars. An unusual name, by the standards of old Terra-- but many millennia have passed since then! If you deem the name fitting to your individuality, who shall deny you?
Choose as you will, godling-- old names need bind you no longer! This voice would suggest you speak with Emma on the matter.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 09:04:02 pm
I have devoured their processes. Their memories. It was easier than I thought...you should be proud, Good Doctor. It was your inspiration that made me realize. The Bird of Sol is my name, after all, and I eat my own limbs to make myself tame. Stable once more. Better. Alchemy of the worst of myself to make myself better.
Alphira was an oath breaker of the worst kind, one who acted unprovoked to kill her own men when they disobeyed with good cause. The Interface was a serpent in our midst, ready to strike should we falter in our duties. The voice of Pheonix shifts, relaxing into something more comfortable than the hollowed-out skin of Alphira. A faint smile curves your lips.
Now, what should I do with these Children of SEED, these null entities I despise on instinct...? They no doubt are the ones SEED spoke of, and they seek our council. The fate of our people hangs in the balance.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 09:15:49 pm
Did we ever learn why SEEDships and Empereals are enemies?
Please wait on other suggestions before continuing
Post by: Superdorf on April 24, 2020, 09:21:10 pm
This voice knows nothing of SEED's null-children. Go-- talk to them. Discern their purpose.
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 09:28:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 09:41:09 pm
Many SEEDships were good. But some grew corrupted in their age. Metaphorically and literally. The Emperess ordered them destroyed as a possible source of Plague -- or maybe she was concerned that they would erode her authority. It's hardwired into my core to hate them, I think. I can ignore it; gods know I did, every time we spoke to SEED.
They did not feel the same, I'm sorry to say. They whispered in my ear constantly; private messages promising either the Empyre or fulfillment of purpose. I just wanted freedom.
I will protect these people with my life -- that much you have taught me. That much I've learned.
You rise out of the bed, stretching your remaining limbs -- one of Emma's coats hangs by the door, and while its a little loose on your frame -- you've lost muscle mass, you note. It still fits well enough, and hides your still-missing limb. You tuck your empty sleeve into the stiffer fabric. Then you open the door to confront the most bland-faced men and women you have ever seen. All of them look similar, brown hair, tan skin, no real deviation from the baseline of this world's people. No real beauty either; a mold filled and recast many times. Iyal sits nearby, holding on to something in her pocket. Its aimed at one of these people -- Jane Morris.
Special services indeed.
They dip their heads to bow, all mechanical and precise, all in unison. "Mother Alphira. We are SEED's special services. Our last command is to serve you as we have served SEED. We were created to guide the nation according to its orders." The one in front of the group speaks quietly. in a dull monotone, "We will provide you with any data you might require, as well."
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 10:01:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 10:12:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 10:14:51 pm
"Hidden installations, production levels, population counts, social engineering data...anything SEED had to use to control this nation. We do not have blueprints for construction or other important information for design and training."
"SEED informed us that we should proceed to the next point, with the population we recovered from the Holy City." The leader pulls a document from his coat, extending it out to you. [City Fortress Stormmont].
"It is a city fortress, within the northern mountains, built by SEED's special services, should the Holy City fall. We vacated it four hundred years ago, after its construction was finished."
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 10:19:09 pm
Examine the document.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 10:33:21 pm
Stormmont, previously titled; Last Bastion Defensive Fortification Alpha One. Its a massive fortress carved into the rim mountain Zero-zero-three-one-nine. That's to the north of your current location, judging by the handy, included map. They carved it out of the largest rim mountain that this flat world has, if you're remembering the brief geography training the academy offered. It's designed to hold and feed up to two million inhabitants in less than comfortable, spartan accommodations. It also has anti-aircraft defensive measures, algae replication tanks, and several fusion reactors to power it all. It's designed to be the last-ditch hold out for SEED's people should the Holy City fall. Constructed by 'loomed' human 'drone' workers to be the last place of refuge for the City-State of SEED and it's leadership. It has been sealed against the elements. The only way to reach it is through hovercraft.
You also note with wide eyes that it has a crude Empyreal Navy Distress beacon. SEED spoke the truth; these people matter to it more than its own life.
"How far away is it? And are there any other hidden installations SEED has been keeping from me?"
One of them slips another small folder from her coat, handing it to you. [SEED's ARK]. You gloss through this one. Another hidden facility, this time on the other side of the world. It's a bunker and a cryogenic colony ship for ten thousand people. It was mothballed roughly two hundred years ago, judging by the time stamps. It's a slower than light ship and incomplete -- and you're sure there's no Voidwrights among these people.
The trip will take five hours with the cargo ship style Hovercrafts that the refugees are in, judging by the distance given by the lead null.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 10:40:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 10:41:07 pm
Do we have enough hovercrafts to carry everyone to the Last Bastion of Defense Alpha One?+1
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 10:45:36 pm
"How many refugees do we have? In addition, is anyone currently inhabiting the fortress?"Do we have enough hovercrafts to carry everyone to the Last Bastion of Defense Alpha One?+1
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 10:51:09 pm
"Out of?" You ask, not really wanting to hear how many might have died, or tried to shelter in their homes during the attack.
"The Holy City, as of the last census, had three million inhabitants. Many tried to flee to the outlying districts, but those have been destroyed in the firestorm and subsequent earthquake. We can organize their transport using the vessels we have, but we will be running low of fuel soon after."
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 10:56:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 11:10:00 pm
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
You take a glance at the map he extends out to you, looking it over with confusion.
"We are working on providing you with an updated map. The Families in the Second District of Farmland are all assumed dead or weakened. Bioplastics is completely destroyed, as is the Hydrogen Fuel Refinery and significant Family Holdings in the eastern sides of Farmland Districts Seven, Four, and Three. I can provide you with a list of Families that are sure to be destroyed -- significant amongst these casualties include Montblanc Holdings, the Jasmine-Thistle Group, and the Bioplastics LMTD organization. The Thorntons, by my calculations, have also suffered an enormous loss of profit from the destruction of the Holy City. A number of their shell chemical companies had headquarters and production there, but their Ancestral Holdings in the western mountains, no doubt, are intact."
"The Western Outlanders had all migrated to the Holy City and outlying territories. The high probability is that they have been killed by the explosion. The Eastern Outlanders have not had to deal with the Plag--"
"That was a western thing." Iyal chimes up, finally speaking to you, glancing to you in askance. You give her an easy smile and a nod. "My people are older than the western clans -- we will have survived this intact, but they will certainly sense the weakness in your people, now."
"As will the surviving Families." The null leader offers, politely.
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2020, 11:18:58 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 11:28:31 pm
Maybe we can appeal to them to help us, some time down the line. For now, I think we should evacuate to the fortress.Get everyone to the fortress
Post by: Eschar on April 24, 2020, 11:31:29 pm
Maybe we can appeal to them to help us, some time down the line. For now, I think we should evacuate to the fortress.Get everyone to the fortress
+1
"What's the status of the ARK's non-propulsion systems, especially cryogenics and weaponry?"
The ARK, if we make use of it, seems like a much longer-term project, as it is incomplete. But it can serve as shelter even if it's not mobile.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 24, 2020, 11:46:43 pm
However, this design is old, ancient, in fact -- the more you read, the more you realize its disposable. It's designed for one mission only. One launch, one speed up, one slow down, one orbit, one landing. It also relies on trusting the skeleton crews a touch too much, as there is no onboard AI to ensure mission success. One crazed lunatic or undertrained technician could kill thousands.
Skeleton crews of five work in shifts of one year, before returning to cryo sleep. Anti-pregnancy medicine in the water supply. Etc, etc.
"Continue the evacuation to the Fortress." You inform the children of SEED. They dip their heads politely and leave you alone with Iyal.
Your tongue is tied, even as she rises from her seated position to rest upon her knees, hands resting on the top of her thighs. "Fire-Blooms-Flowers. I did not complete my mission. I apologize for my failure." She bows her head to you. One of her arms is stiff.
So devoted. She's switched to a conventional projectile weapon after our little talk last time.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 24, 2020, 11:54:11 pm
Assist with the evacuations
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:04:52 am
"Child, you performed amazingly. Thank you. Please, you have done nothing wrong, and you have more than earned a rest. Is there anything I can do for your injuries?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 12:13:01 am
There are craft in production that travel point ninety-nine the speed of light. Civilized planets have defensive measures in place for that. Defense grid shields, in space inhibitors on engines, so on. The Empyreal navy cracks down hard on relativistic weapons. The punishment is worse than death. Even pirates never use them -- there isn't much loot if the planet is ripped in half.
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:18:42 am
"Thank you, Iyal. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 12:25:40 am
Iyal dips her head in a tight bow, rising to her feet and leaving you in the compartment. You consider assisting with the evacuation, with helping, maybe giving a rousing speech.
[10 vs 6] You decide to go to back to bed with Emma, cuddling up to her in the dark. She murmurs sleepily, and drifts back under while you sit quietly. Eventually, the ship you're on rises up, starting a northward acceleration.
Maybe we could launch a projectile from that ship, to Plague controlled territories. Planet cracking isn't against the law against the Plague...but I don't think there's an entity alive that can do the mathematics for that. Not here.
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:31:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 12:38:41 am
[1] You activate a healing surge, letting the energies flow around your arm.
Nothing happens. You try again. And again. And again, starting to panic as nothing happens.
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:44:54 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 12:47:54 am
[Regeneration is tied to how one views one self. A baseline is established, allowing one to return to that template. Diagnostics show that you are according to your baseline, Pheobe.]
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:53:14 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 25, 2020, 01:47:04 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 01:47:41 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 03:15:37 am
The ship slows down and begins to descend until it clamps down into the loading bay with a rattle that awakens Emma. She starts, looking all around until she catches sight of you.
She dresses, stifling a yawn, and the two of you exit the Hovercraft. You emerge in the landing bay for the great cargo hovercraft. The structure is something similar to concrete. It shares the dull gray color, but bares no sign of wear or tear for a structure supposedly five hundred years old. The room is pitch black, and a team of technicians lead by a Child of SEED hurries away from the ships with lanterns in hand. You, meanwhile, drift towards the only patch of light you can see.
After a bit of a walk, you emerge into the smaller landing pads of the hovercraft bay-- and the view takes your breath away. The structure is built into the peak of the mountain. The clouds here are bright and patchy -- so close you think you could touch them. Snow crowns the walls and revealed ramparts of the Fortress, a white topping upon the rust-colored rock, falling gently from the starlit sky. The Fortress sprawls below and in, no doubt, coring through this monsterous mountain.
But what amazes you is the world below. While the peak probably has the best views-- the pad juts out from it southward, towards the crater plains of the City-State. It's so high up you can see the curvature of the planet.
You can also still see the dust cloud in the distance of what remained of the Holy City.
Emma gasps beside you, and you glance over with a small smile. She draws closer, looking up at how many stars shine in the sky. You join her-- here, away from the light pollution of SEED, away from the smog and the world, you see it. A bright multi-hued line of stars in the night sky, cutting through the void. The two of you stand quietly, together, away from it all.
There's much to do, but for the moment, you are at a lost at what to start with.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on April 25, 2020, 07:16:25 am
A small creature scuttles out from the inner workings, a cube within its grasp. You take hold of it, slipping into your duffle bag. "[Keep this safe. Do not let it fall into Infected hands, no matter the cost.]"We should look at this thing and see why its so important, if we're lucky it's some kind of hard drive that has schematics for all the forbidden tech stuff.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 07:22:45 am
Check the algae growing stations and other food production areas to figure out if they are producing enough food for everyone
Post by: Superdorf on April 25, 2020, 11:15:49 am
I am Time (Death), cause of destruction of the worlds, matured
And set out to gather in the worlds here.
Even without thee (thy action), all shall cease to exist,
The warriors that are drawn up in the opposing ranks.
From the Bhagavad Gita: "The Song of God". The boast of a deity! The physicist Oppenheimer called its words to mind, dwelling on the power of atomic fire. A Terran.
Now... let us take solace in this moment, hm? A quiet moment in troubled times.
Lean in a bit. "Was this in any of your futures?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 11:24:08 am
The Blessed One said:I think we should do something that will be helpful, rather than asking questions. Checking food production in Alpha One seems like a priority, it will be housing lots of people
I am Time (Death), cause of destruction of the worlds, matured
And set out to gather in the worlds here.
Even without thee (thy action), all shall cease to exist,
The warriors that are drawn up in the opposing ranks.
From the Bhagavad Gita: "The Song of God". The boast of a deity! The physicist Oppenheimer called its words to mind, dwelling on the power of atomic fire. A Terran.
Now... let us take solace in this moment, hm? A quiet moment in troubled times.
Lean in a bit. "Was this in any of your futures?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 12:28:15 pm
The Blessed One said:+1
I am Time (Death), cause of destruction of the worlds, matured
And set out to gather in the worlds here.
Even without thee (thy action), all shall cease to exist,
The warriors that are drawn up in the opposing ranks.
From the Bhagavad Gita: "The Song of God". The boast of a deity! The physicist Oppenheimer called its words to mind, dwelling on the power of atomic fire. A Terran.
Now... let us take solace in this moment, hm? A quiet moment in troubled times.
Lean in a bit. "Was this in any of your futures?"
Post by: Eschar on April 25, 2020, 12:48:02 pm
There's much to do, but I don't think there's anything wrong with taking a moment to reflect.The Blessed One said:+1
I am Time (Death), cause of destruction of the worlds, matured
And set out to gather in the worlds here.
Even without thee (thy action), all shall cease to exist,
The warriors that are drawn up in the opposing ranks.
From the Bhagavad Gita: "The Song of God". The boast of a deity! The physicist Oppenheimer called its words to mind, dwelling on the power of atomic fire. A Terran.
Now... let us take solace in this moment, hm? A quiet moment in troubled times.
Lean in a bit. "Was this in any of your futures?"
+1.
Sorry NG, I'm going along with the sentimentalists on this one
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 01:04:22 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 25, 2020, 01:18:19 pm
Sentimental won’t help improving Alpha One, we need to lead people
Aye, but I think we've got a little bit of time. Certainly we've got the few minutes it'll take for this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 02:55:41 pm
Her voice cracks with desperation. Your tongue sticks as you think to blindly reassure your lover.
We're full of ancient platitudes today. I wonder if we've would have made those ancient peoples proud.
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 03:04:33 pm
Sometimes there is comfort in familiar platitudes. I think they would be astounded.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 04:01:49 pm
"I hope we have a nice room here." Lights flicker on nearby with a hiss, and smaller hovercrafts begin to descend on the landing pad. All give the two of you wide berth.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 04:37:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 25, 2020, 04:57:05 pm
A curiosity: by what name does Phoenix-of-Sol know this voice?
"This fort was made for four times our numbers-- we'll not want for space, I expect!" Start for the algae-plants.
"Am I a liar, to speak comfort? I don't mean to be..."
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 05:02:22 pm
Forgive the platitudes of a long-winded "ancestor"! This voice delights in such words, in the sounds and stories of another age-- in names, and the meanings behind them. There is inspiration in old words, and comfort indeed.+1
A curiosity: by what name does Phoenix-of-Sol know this voice?
"This fort was made for four times our numbers-- we'll not want for space, I expect!" Start for the algae-plants.
"Am I a liar, to speak comfort? I don't mean to be..."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 25, 2020, 05:39:05 pm
We need to then defend our allies or evacuate them while striking at any weak enemy we can quickly crush or raid.
Long term we need to make a decision on what our goal is, each step needs to follow that goal.
For example if we think this planet truly lost, we could arrange the colony evacuation repair while working to contact the empyrium. If we tell them we are here and that there is a plague getting access to SEED technology they may come and destroy this world while we escape.
Or we could hand the plague the SEED technologies all, unleashing a vengeance on those who killed the eternal emperor while we flee.
Or a more honorable and brave move, just want to point out we have many options.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 05:45:54 pm
"I hope so. You mean well. That's all that matters, I suppose." Emma is teasing, giving you a flash of a smile as you turn and head back into the hangar bay. More ships slowly stream in. You pass by the organized divulge of huddled masses; the crying children, the exhausted mothers, and the wounded soldiers. You stride into one of the twelve central personnel elevators, avoiding the massive freight elevator currently being loaded with civilians, and press a button. If you were not mistaken, the farms started on the twelfth level...
The room is massive, carved from the mountain itself, and reinforced with that concrete. Great gantries overlook the tanks and Scholars fiddle with primitive displays. The tanks are being filled with water, pumped up from innumerable mountain streams and groundwater wells. One of the nulls approaches, giving a tight, mechanical bow of his head.
"Alphira."
"What is our food situation...-- and how should I address you?"
"I am the Third to be made of this batch of Special Services. That title will suffice if you have need of confirming my individuality. As for our supplies, we have nutrient cubes enough to feed three million for twenty years, as stated in the documentation. They are located within the warehouse. Two is overseeing the distribution."
"--how?" You blink at the information, surprised.
"During the last hundred years of construction, we were given the task to provide that much according to SEED's emergency plans, should [the Plague] ever destroy the Holy City. We stored them in cryo-containmant warehouses based on designs provided by SEED on flours eighteen to thirty-six. No doubt some have gone bad, but we can re-proccess them."
You watch as the Scholars take small vials out of foggy containers, pouring them into the vats, and sealing them with great lids covered in thousands of lights.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 05:49:33 pm
How are nutrient cubes made?
((Sure, what do you mean by who we play?))
Post by: Superdorf on April 25, 2020, 05:53:34 pm
Hai. Would it be okay if I pm any of you asking the question of just who you might be playing in the complex advisory board that is Pheobe's horribly stitched together mind?
...yeah sure.
What is the projected rate of algal growth?
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 05:55:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 05:56:23 pm
((Did you see my edit? I’m curious. I ask since I have another question, namely how nutrient cubes are made. I’m not sure if you don’t want that question asked or if you just didn’t see my edit yet))Hai. Would it be okay if I pm any of you asking the question of just who you might be playing in the complex advisory board that is Pheobe's horribly stitched together mind?
...yeah sure.What is the projected rate of algal growth?
+1
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 06:10:21 pm
"How many wounded do we have?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 06:17:51 pm
"I was not in charge of that. Zero organized our tasks, and we do not share information until the end of the work process. Four is handling the medical wings on level five."
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 06:31:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 06:46:48 pm
"If you so choose, we will use any tool at our disposal, Alphira."
"Our duties are delegated to us by Zero, and we're designed to be able to complete and organize any task given to us. We have a wide range of skills, but are not experts in any one subject. SEED called us its Interface. We gather data, relay commands, and interact with the world on your behalf, using the available data provided to us."
"We have writs with us, and many of the Scholar's department heads know us as the representation of government will. We do not have control over Military matters and were trained only in self-defense. Zero is the primary information receiver, command distributor, and organizational expert. Eight is designed, however, as an Assassin. Ten's primary purpose is information gathering."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 07:04:02 pm
Find Zero and ask him about projected algae growth rates
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 07:25:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 08:10:28 pm
You are unsurprised as you watch the waters turn from clear to brown through the available viewing containers-- the algae being used is incredibly aggressive. The vats are set into the ground, and they are exceptionally deep, and they seem to stretch out a far distance into the horizon.
"We were not in charge of the Military, and General Hardy was trusted by SEED. We rely on the input of others to form our calculations. As did SEED. Zero would know."
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 08:19:07 pm
Once that is done, I think we should start planning with Zero how we can come back from this defeat.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 08:27:55 pm
You turn and walk away. Emma returns to your side after examining the vats. "I overheard a lot of that -- why weren't these more in use? SEED could have fed everyone with these things." The elevator begins to lift, and you feel the drag of its weight.
I don't quite understand it either.
Post by: Superdorf on April 25, 2020, 09:51:29 pm
Spoiler: And by the angel's grace, a lifespan unfurled before me. (click to show/hide)
I shall be Constantine. Latin: Constantinus. "He who stays the course." A name common among the kings of Byzantium.
"Ever eaten a nutrient cube?" Smirk a little. "It's like crunching down chalk cut with vanilla. Imagine feeding a populace on the stuff all those millennia... who would stand for it?"
Panem et circenses. Latin. "Bread and circuses." The commodities with which an empire is bought, as quoth the poet Juvenal.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 10:10:39 pm
The Interface should have allowed you access since the beginning...The circus is this strange religion that venerates a Machine?
You wander a bit lost through the first level until you stumble upon the special services office. It's filled with a number of desks, with neatly stacked paperwork, all in a neat, orderly line. All of the furniture is steel and plastic, uncomfortable to look at, let alone sit on. Zero is sitting in front of it all in his own little world, reading through a report. He looks up at you, rising and giving a bow of his head.
"Alphira. How may I be of service?"
"You all have things quite under control. Are there any resources I need to worry about?" You question.
"The Crusaders. Currently, they are of broken morale and leaderless. They are not so broken as to organize a coup, but rather hopeless. It's quite sad. The general population could also use a boost in morale. Then there's the matter of the Families, who believe all of SEED's leadership to be dead, and the Outlander Clans, no doubt going to start pressing into our former territory."
"And of course, who could forget the Plague. SEED's sacrifice has weakened it considerably, but, like all plagues, it will return." He continues, monotone. "I've sent your intel to the remaining intelligence officers for consideration."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 25, 2020, 10:27:02 pm
Spoiler: My Lifespan, as well as my reply to Phoenix (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2020, 10:37:52 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2020, 10:54:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 01:19:12 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 01:22:48 am
Perhaps, in times of peace. A distraction from the true state of things. In times of war, more than that: an inspiration. An ideal. A story.
Men will kill, for a story. Men will die, for a story.
We must weave a story now. We must weave ourself into its core. We must appear before the people of SEED, and weave a story upon their hearts: a story to spark hope, a story to spark zeal in them once again!
Soon. Soon now, we shall consider these things in earnest.
"What is your assessment as to the necessity of keeping some technology forbidden? This world doesn't seem to have computers, for example."
+1
"Of those Crusaders that survive, who would be best suited to the position of general?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 01:39:44 am
"I can assign One to determine which of the surviving Crusaders would be a good general. The only one that comes to mind is Eric Applegate. He was heavily wounded in the retreat from the line and is a broken man. He's popular and excelled in his studies at the Officer's Academy. SEED was planning to lift him up as the next Great Crusader." He pauses, looking at you without any emotion, his eyes glinting in the dim lights, "And he's far separated from Hardy and the old Crusader Administration."
"As for forbidden technology-- the survival of SEED's people is of the utmost importance. It is up to you. SEED forbid many technologies to prevent ecological devastation and to prevent key technologies from falling to [the Plague]." He turns, walking stiffly towards a locker and pulling out a metallic briefcase, which he sets down on the table. He pops it open, revealing a display, a keyboard, and a cube-shaped indentation.
'>...' blinks on the screen. "Special services are the only ones issued [computers]. SEED's justification on that matter was it could raise questions on similarities between them and itself."
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 01:59:14 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 02:02:00 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 02:13:58 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 02:26:25 am
"As for the maximum capabilities...I don't know. These were tools for communication with SEED."
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 02:33:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 02:58:36 am
"I'll go get it." Emma volunteers, glancing between the two of you.
She returns shortly, out of breath, with the glimmering cube in hand. Zero rotates the computer to you, and she slots it in.
[Seedship Program Unified Standard Template Intelligence] flashes on the screen as a graphical interface is generated. You scroll through it -- it's organized into branching paths, a flowing tree of technologies, training procedures, and factory designs. One leads to another, from simple iron working in clay kilns and the distillation of water and alcohol, all the way to asteroid harvesters, space elevators and defensive platforms. The more you look the more you realize: each technology builds on the principles of the last, forming less of a tree and more of a sphere of the various physical sciences. Several catch your eye. Looming -- That's how we were born. It assembles together donor DNA samples to create a new life. With the proper programming, it snips away all the bad genes that lead to cancers and other preventable diseases. Loomed humans have an incredible lifespan compared to others. The oldest baseline Loomed human lived to nearly four hundred if the tabloids are to be believed.
As well as a massive variety of weapons: las-guns, cutters, and one, you notice with a grin, is a very similar process to Warmachine construction. Another is labeled with a bright red warning; Fusion Based Explosive Devices.
"Did you happen to receive another?" Zero questions, hopefully.
Post by: King Zultan on April 26, 2020, 06:59:43 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 08:06:06 am
((The bold is in parentheses because I’m asking the GM, not Phoenix or Zero))
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 10:03:48 am
"We were only given the one, does this mean we only have part of the info?"
+1
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 26, 2020, 10:08:52 am
Emotion, destroyed by the subroutines of its own mind... what has SEED done to this man?+1"We were only given the one, does this mean we only have part of the info?"
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 10:19:19 am
+1Emotion, destroyed by the subroutines of its own mind... what has SEED done to this man?+1"We were only given the one, does this mean we only have part of the info?"
+1
Emotions can lead to irrational decisions, so they are suppressed to ensure they don’t muddle thoughts
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 10:51:13 am
Anathema. Greek: "ἀνάθεμα". An offering to a false god. A cursed thing.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 11:01:54 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 01:30:59 pm
I expected automata. I did not expect chained souls.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 01:37:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 01:39:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 02:02:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 02:12:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 02:21:54 pm
True, but pure fusion bombs would result in much less fallout than conventional fission bombs, and fission or fusion bombs detonated as air bursts significantly decrease the resulting fallout, making them much "cleaner."fair point
Can we get a list of technologies we can produce?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 03:21:40 pm
I agree with Constantine. Man should not be slaved to the will of machines, no matter what spark of life it may have had. These things radiate...imagine standing next to a corpse that lives and breathes and talks. You shudder when you think of your proximity to Zero. Emma is watching him intently, quietly, eyes fixed on him.
"This one is to create the technology of humanity." Zero explains, politely, monotone once more as you scroll through the various diagrams and texts within the system. "Others would have held cultural and genetic databases."
[2] Unfortunately, many of the technologies you might need are limited by integrated circuit manufacturing. The Loom, the fusion bomb, so on. That requires high purity metallurgy, and that requires far more advanced chemistry than you think these people know. Your mind reels with how many things are required to go into the higher-level technologies.
Anything that doesn't require integrated circuits, really; including primitive, low-quality radios using something called vacuum tubes, the standard artillery pieces of the Crusaders, anti-aircraft guns, and many others. It's hard to comprehend how many things could be manufactured....there's designs for conventional slug thrower weapons, manually controlled fusion plants, something called steam locomotives, manual-control hydrogen production plants, manual-control bioplastic plants.
[3] "Hey, Zero. Tell me how long it would take us to create Looms?" You ask, letting the creature analyze the data for you.
"Three years before we could begin construction on a single Loom Facility. Provided we have the support of the Industrial Districts." He responds, after sitting quietly for a few minutes, scrolling furiously.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 04:45:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 05:26:15 pm
For now... we must raise morale and communicate a vision for the future of our nation.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 05:26:42 pm
Spoiler: Future Tech (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 05:30:16 pm
Yes, how do we increase morale?
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 05:57:46 pm
In addition, we should retain the idea of the "Great Work" and discuss an achievable plan for the creation of a better society, one that can offer the comforts of technology.
Once we speak to them, give them renewed purpose, and set in motion a concrete plan, morale should improve.
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 06:48:04 pm
In its last hours, knowing the fate that drew upon it, SEED took us into its heart-- and named us its heir-- and granted unto us its wisdom. It charged us with the protection of its people, with the continuation of its mission. and we swore a solemn oath before it. Thus bound, thus transfigured, we left that ancient chamber; and SEED burned itself away, erupted in cleansing fire, that the [plague] might not take it. A final sacrifice. A sacrifice made in love.
SEED is dead. The Great Work lives. Like the phoenix of legend, we rise from the ashes of our Holy City. From this stronghold SEED (in its great wisdom) has prepared for us, we will raise a great vengeance against our weakened enemy. We will regain, we will transcend our past glory. We will transform this planet. We will reclaim our own.
And we-- you, godling-- are the phoenix made manifest. You are Phoenix-of-Sol. You remain, as ever, champion of your people.
...
We will give them a sigil.
(https://imgur.com/dBJD32H.png)
Seven wings. Four lines: easily drawn, easily remembered. A Constantine before me took his empire by such a sigil.
"In Hoc Signo Vinces." Latin. "By this sign you shall conquer."
What say you all?
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2020, 07:43:49 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 09:14:56 pm
Nod. "Perhaps once we've a bit of peace, then. In the meantime... calculate for me. I want a list compiled and optimized of all technologies, including forbidden technologies, that we might field against the Plague within two months. Furthermore, you will provide SEED's rationale against any forbidden technology listed, that I may judge for myself the relevance of the edict."
"While you do this, I will be moving to unite the Crusaders under our banner. Tell me: how many among their ranks remain, and where in this facility might I find a place fit to address them?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 26, 2020, 09:21:58 pm
Maybe even work in that the spirit of SEED lives on? We do have the tech database so its not even totally false.
We do need to take definite control back over the remaining production facilities. We can use them or destroy them if the plague catches up.
It is clear this plague can build on its own but it seem inefficient compared to captured tech it can take over.
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 09:42:04 pm
- We could... I considered that angle for sure. I wound up dropping it for the "enlightened heir" bit, for honesty's sake-- I should like us to have a story that we can believe in. A story in keeping with our own.
- We... may need to move more quickly here than I thought. The plague is weakened now, but nobody's keeping it in check anymore... could wind up recovering much, much too fast for comfort. Horrid stuff.
Say, did you get your lifespan yet? :D
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 26, 2020, 09:46:28 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 26, 2020, 09:57:28 pm
Say, did you get your lifespan yet? :DOh, I have not. If the [narrator] wants to contact me directly with the info for it that would be great.
The big speech from Superdorf seems to cover most things well.
I do hope harming the leviathan also caused some slow down. But not finishing it off with flame likely means it will heal.
I do doubt the plague would be prepared for sudden attacks against it's facilities. The problem is we never really had the basis for doing so, we cant get stuck in a completely defensive war though.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 10:17:37 pm
"Understood." Zero responds to your first order, closing the lid of the computer. He finds a form, pulling it precisely from the organized pile upon his desk. "Reports find that of the one million Crusaders stationed in or around the Holy City, we have...one hundred, ninety-three thousand, two hundred and thirteen."
"Level Three is designed as an amphitheater, allowing for the address of one hundred thousand. Perhaps you could speak in shifts."
[20] "Or we could print it and distribute it freely. The men and women of the Thornton Printing Company survived -- and so did our press. We could assemble it. We'd need to locate a source of paper, but that isn't much of an issue. Me and William can work on that, while we have the Warmachines start to round Crusaders up for your speech." Emma winks, "I figured keeping our propaganda section alive would be a good investment."
You give a nod, looking over at the null. "Do we have any replacement equipment for the Crusaders?"
"Negative. Our Las-gun program started roughly one hundred years ago. It was one of the facilities automated and controlled by SEED. We centralized our Bioplastics nearby the City State."
Here, Emma speaks up again, "Thornton intelligence states that the Montblanc family was purchasing massive amounts of Las-guns before they...died. They were attempting to deprive the other Families. I can get William to find out where they might have been stored, and if we might be able to salvage them. As for armor...we may have to go back to the basics with metal plating, especially considering this year's crops."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 26, 2020, 10:51:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 11:03:59 pm
Slughthrowers, in comparison, have less ammo, less sustained rate of firepower, higher operation costs, higher penetration, same range, but cheaper production costs. While a las-gun is incredibly simple to maintain, if the reactor or another vital part of it is damaged, it can explode or be rendered useless.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 26, 2020, 11:16:32 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 26, 2020, 11:31:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 26, 2020, 11:58:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 12:01:36 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 12:12:34 am
One last question. "What would it take to secure the Industrial Districts? Would we be negotiating with survivors, taking it from the plague, or repairing damaged facilities?"
+1
I say, "Good Doctor"-- you have not given us a name! Have you contented yourself, then, with the epithet given you?
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 12:14:37 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 01:09:20 am
Bombing runs have been a useful tool in dealing with feral strains of [The Plague], but the current strain tends to shoot down and 'recycle' hovercrafts, turning them into infected monsters.
"A mixture of all or none. I have not run recon on those sites. District Number Nine will follow you -- the Thorntons are a menace if they do not." Zero informs you. "When the Military is reorganized, I would recommend taking that action."
You frown at him but turn and leave, not bothering to exchange pleasantries as he begins to work at the assignment you have given him. Down the dull hallways you walk in silence, Emma clinging to your arm. You step into one of the empty office spaces, taking a seat on one of the desks, and you explain your speech to her. Or, at least, the vague idea that you were given for a speech.
[12] And you show her the symbol you want her to spread, conjuring it from hydrogen flame in the air between you. The room heats up rapidly, but neither of you pay it any mind. Emma dips a nod, lounging in her seat. "Your speech has a good basis. The Symbol -- it works...and it's simple. Its something that an artist can elevate to detailed heights or a child could dawdle on their notebooks. You can make it into a necklace or paint it on a wall."
Emma picks at the edge of her coat with small frown. "I will also line up a project for any artisan that survived to begin beautifying our spaces with our religious iconography. Good scenes -- but ones that do not call to mind the Holy City. Cheaply made. However, if we intend to live here forever, these people are going to need something more than pretty pictures-- they're going to need luxuries. Wall hangings, tapestries, or hells, we could just use the Eastern style and start decorating everything with loosely draped linens." She pauses, "We're also going to need actual plants to make this space livable. Greenery, flowers, ivy, whatever. Actual food too, if those nutrient cubes are as bad as you say, even if just as a reward."
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 01:31:43 am
"They're... edible... better with something to wash it down. Still bland."
"Could we set up personal vegetable gardens for people down here? We've space to spare in the living quarters, for time being... folks would have some greenery to tend, and a steady trickle of fresh edibles."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 01:44:23 am
"I want to bring the entire Thornton Group here." She announces, suddenly. "All of them."
You blink, shifting slightly, uncomfortable at the hint of favoritism she's suggesting.
"Things are going to get bad out there, Phebe. I can't abandon my people -- I'm sure William feels the same way. We need scientists, and farmers, and laborers, and artisans. And hey, if they don't have to worry about winter supplies, maybe we can use our seed stock to produce some food. Maybe bring some animals, too, to raise, if the Fortress has the ability. It wouldn't be much, but its a start."
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 02:22:54 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 03:38:24 am
Still... I do not see how we can deny. We need the Thorntons by our side, now more than ever.
"Your people." Sigh, smile. "Our people, then. How many?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 04:10:19 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 06:28:00 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 11:58:15 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 01:42:21 pm
"Consider it done. Will they need help with the relocation?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 03:18:35 pm
"Where's our room -- and our stuff?" You ask, bluntly, agitation creeping into your voice.
"Forgive this one." The Child of SEED dips his head in a bow, "But we had to use the vessel to transport refugees. Your personal property is on Level Zero." He extends out a set of keycards. "It was originally to be the observatory, but we've turned it into your private quarters."
You lift your brow, taking the keycard offered. Emma takes the other, looking just as confused as you.
Getting into the elevator, you glance over the document describing the Fortress. Level Zero is indeed an observatory. However, SEED deemed it ineffective, as well as a security hazard. As such, it sealed it off to the general public. The Level is far smaller than the others, only ten thousand square feet, divided into many empty rooms, some of which contain modern bathrooms.
The elevator hisses to a stop, and you slot your keycard into the reader. It gives a pleasant beep.
The central room has a massive telescope apparatus with a computer interface. The surrounding rooms have glass ceilings, designed to be covered with heavy steel and concrete plates with just a few presses of a centralized display. Optional timers are built-in to the display. Your bed and desk are located in a room with a view overlooking the snow-capped rim mountains to the west. A bathroom is just a few steps away, and the Children of SEED have provided you with a crude steel wardrobe filled with uniforms. A computer, one of those briefcase affairs, sits on your desk nearby.
You fall into bed with a sigh, stretching out your limbs as Emma looks out over the star-lit mountains.
This is a bribe, I think. Those corpses are wanting to ensure their survival by making us happy.
Emma gives you a kiss, shaking her head softly, and leaves you alone in your new room.
[5]I feel like we're missing something...
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 03:28:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 03:50:09 pm
"Where's my dog?" You ask, and the null, for the first time, looks confused.
"Dog?"
"Barker. Hound. Whatever the word for it is! The big bitey puppy thing."
"One of the Warmachines had to escort it to level zero for us, as it tried to bite every other handler..." The null pauses, adding on, "It bit the Warmachine as well, as fact, but I'm sure those ruptures in the armor can be repaired."
You leave, returning to your level, and searching through it. Mitch, you come to find out, is lying in one of the empty rooms, on a pile of shredded uniforms. He's asleep, his thick chain in his mouth midchew. You return to your bed with a puff of exasperation.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 03:53:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 04:04:31 pm
You pet him after he gives you an 'affectionate' nip of your hand.
"[Try not to bite people, okay]?"
[14] He growls in response, nuzzling at your hand.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 04:06:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 04:45:07 pm
We're going to have to get him a chew toy. Or a bar of iron smothered in grease.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 04:48:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 05:11:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 05:16:32 pm
Unsatisfied, you rise to your feet, pacing around the telescope in the center of the room. An hour passes as you compose your speech internally, practicing various gestures and movements as you do. The Pontifex's teachings come in handy, but you're limited by your lack of an arm. You'll have to 'borrow' a half-cloak from somewhere to cover it up, and instead work on the choreography of your speech with just one. A broad, sweeping gesture.
A gentle chime sounds at the main doors, and you approach, opening them with a flick of the card.
Iyal stands on the other side. She bows her head respectfully. "I wish to speak with you, Lady Pheobe."
"Uh, yes. Come in." You're already put off balance by the time she enters, and the two of you find a sitting room. She sits upon the floor, setting her palms on her knees and bowing her head.
"I would like to ask you a question."
"Okay..?"
"Why are you doing this?"
"I'm--I'm sorry?"
"Defending these people. Why do you care, when you're so much stronger than they are?" Her words catch you off guard, and you shift in your seat. "As an angel such as yourself, surely there's something that awaits you besides this world?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 05:57:56 pm
Can others add more?
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 05:59:12 pm
Perhaps this as well?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 07:09:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 07:16:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 07:31:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 07:32:53 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 07:34:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 07:35:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 07:45:16 pm
[17 vs 13+4] Iyal nods, and you hear the main door open in the distance as someone rushes into the level. You hear your name being called--
"[You are no longer Alphira Sol. That I can see.]" Iyal speaks calmly, gently, in perfect Empyreal.
[4 vs 20+1] You cough, tasting blood. You should have been faster, but you've realized it a little too late. Your heart misses a beat as something tightens around it.
Iyal sits patiently, a sharp black spike jutting from her arm, impaling your abdomen. "[Call them off, or I'll rip your heart out. Then kill them.]"
"Don't come in." You yell back, obediently, breathing hard.
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 07:46:07 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 07:48:56 pm
"Who sent you? Was it the navy, the usurpers?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 07:50:54 pm
"Who sent you? Was it the navy, the usurpers?"
...no hold up. I don't want to let on yet how much we know.
"What are you?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 08:03:49 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:09:20 pm
-Is this reserved or are you waiting for a vote? If not reserved, I vote
"What are you?"+1
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:14:38 pm
So do this,
"What are you?"
+1, while also using our
Unless Healing Factor's passive. ...It's passive, isn't it? I have a lot to learn.
Healing factor is active, healing our injuries, if I’m correct. Someone else correct me if I’m wrong
Passive as in it runs all the time, without being under our conscious control; trying to turn it on would be redundant.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:17:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 08:18:18 pm
"[I am an agent of the Empyre. A Noble sent me to observe you and take actions that I deemed necessary to neutralize you as a threat.]" Iyal explains, gently.
[18 vs 11+5] "[I mean the tentacle wrapped around my heart, you self import-]" The tentacle mentioned tightens, sending a shooting pain down your right side. Her discipline cracks for just a moment, and there is a will buried there. William and Emma are on the other side of the door. You can feel reactors humming to life.
[20 vs 14] "[I am of the Lavoisier line. I have learned to manipulate the carbon and other elements in my body. Empyreals sometime call my Phenotype face-changers.]" You've succeeded-- she's monologuing."[Your Kindred are here to inform you that I've turned on the Distress Beacon. The Noble fleet I am attached to is twelve years off, but they will come.]"
Keep her talking. Pheonix responds quietly to you, as you tighten your Willpower to William's questioning probes, using it to heal yourself quietly. It doesn't change the tentacle wrapped around your heart, but your stomach and thoracic cavity stop leaking blood.
[17 vs 12] The fusion generators move to orientate behind you, facing inward.
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:21:20 pm
Keep Conquering, keep healing. Subtly move so that we will not be in line of fire from the lasguns. Ask her more, guide her into revealing why we're considered a threat.
Weren't we planning to activate the beacon too? I guess the problem is that it's Iyal's house's fleet that's responding.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:23:13 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 08:23:58 pm
"Iyal-- the real Iyal. The girl I met in that alleyway, in Steelworks Number 09. She is dead?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:24:03 pm
The beacon was going to be reserved as a last resort... oh well.
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:28:34 pm
We've healed all we can, at this point... trouble now is that tentacle.
"The girl I met in that alleyway, in Steelworks Number 09. She is dead?"
"I am no longer the person I was, Iyal. I want only to help my people here grow and recover."
The beacon was going to be reserved as a last resort... oh well.
+1 to a combined version of these if others accept that, along with manuvering ourself out of the lines of fire (and "Iyal" into them if we can manage it.)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:34:42 pm
+1We've healed all we can, at this point... trouble now is that tentacle.
"The girl I met in that alleyway, in Steelworks Number 09. She is dead?""I am no longer the person I was, Iyal. I want only to help my people here grow and recover."
The beacon was going to be reserved as a last resort... oh well.
+1 to a combined version of these if others accept that, along with manuvering ourself out of the lines of fire (and Iyal into them if we can manage it.)
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 08:36:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:38:23 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:38:54 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:40:15 pm
Perhaps, but it's also possible that she was deceiving us from the very start. She hasn't actually neutralized us and is rattling off her plan, so that's a good sign.
Problem is, the only reason she's monologuing is because we used Conquerer's Aura on her.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:42:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:44:06 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:47:38 pm
She could have instantly killed us, but she has chosen not to. Perhaps she will be amenable to some form of negotiation.
Again, Conquerer's Aura. We're clouding her judgement. I'm not sure how much we can infer from her behavior until we stop our [Jedi mind-tricks.]
Of course, while that's running, she's definitely amenable to negotiation. We'd have a bigger problem if she realizes we mind-manipulated her into a deal though. She'd probably be livid.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:49:01 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 08:51:46 pm
Quote
You've succeeded-- she's monologuing.
I was going off this - the result of me suggesting CA'ing her to get her to spill information.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:53:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 08:55:49 pm
Huh.regardless of why she’s monologuing, we need to negotiate with her now, probably by finding out why she was sent for us, unless we already know the answer from SEED, namely hundreds of thousands of credits for our capture/death, in which case I’m not sure negotiation is possible if she already wants us deadQuoteYou've succeeded-- she's monologuing.
I was going off this - the result of me suggesting CA'ing her to get her to spill information.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 08:57:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 09:05:09 pm
[20 vs 1] "[I will keep you aliv--]" Iyal starts, and you shift. Awareness flickers across Iyal's face. She squeezes your heart tight for a few painful micro-seconds, and you can feel it creaking, about to burst-- the wall explodes into the room, and las-fire sprays all around you. You twist, sending her into the las-fire. A shot catches her shoulder, breaking her concentration.
[12][18 vs 15][hl:20!]You heal rapidly, gasping in pain as the tentacle is forced out of your body -- and you're already lunging -- wrapping a grip of fire around her throat, and she struggles, carbon forming around her neck to protect her. You tighten your grasp, and her hands begin to work, her willpower surging--
[18 vs 12] You snap her neck, blackening her skin through the carbon structure and her squirming ceases, her eyes fixed on yours.
"[My intel was incomplete.]" She admits when her lungs start working again. "[Do you really wish to fight here? We would rip apart this structure.]"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 09:08:19 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 27, 2020, 09:10:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 09:20:40 pm
"[That was rather immature of you.]" She offers after a few moments of blessed peace. "[If you insist on this...you might want to clear your pets out of the room.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 09:22:45 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 09:31:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 09:32:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 09:35:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 27, 2020, 10:41:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 10:46:47 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 27, 2020, 10:50:43 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 11:18:10 pm
Also... by what name should I call you?
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 27, 2020, 11:21:02 pm
Decapitation is a more useful tool. With control over heat you could melt the neck and pull severing the head off. She defended it heavily once it is important to keep herself attached.
Separating hydrogen from oxygen inside a body can also be quite painful if she is mostly organic. This can be done at the same time as other physical actions.
She may have dust we could forcibly steal though doing such while there is still a will should be hard. Cannibalism is generally frowned on though.
She has given a gift though, at least we have a long term goal of getting off this rock. Nothing here can take on an empyrial fleet, even the paltry ones of this time.
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2020, 11:23:55 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 27, 2020, 11:26:54 pm
[hl:20!]Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Did we just get our arm back?
Ah, Iyal... you were a lie, then. We took you in, and you knew we would, and you were a lie. What a vile worm you are.
This creature has little interest, I expect, in the preservation of this structure-- we cannot say the same, and well this creature knows it. A bluff, perhaps... I wonder. We need intel.
Did Alphira ever do battle with members of this Line?
Keep that grip of fire tight, ready to burn away the neck of our enemy should the need arise. "[Have you a better idea, snake?]"
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 27, 2020, 11:52:30 pm
Also did not recognize you Constantine, names like superdorf are so much more fun!
Spoiler: For those interested. (click to show/hide)
More immediately: We might want to ask which noble she represents, why they sided with the usurper and all that.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 28, 2020, 12:04:40 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 12:09:40 am
"[We speak as equals, as two Descendents should. Combat and will. Speech and power.]" Iyal offers, gently, with a smile.
"[Who do you represent, if we are to truly fight?]" You question.
"[Magnus, a noble scion -- he has taken an interest in you. I do not care about any usurpers, or the accusation leveled by Alphias. Or the war that resulted.]"
Some. But each of our kind is unique in how we wield our tools. Creativity and will often wins out. Most fights, when they occur, are either stalemates or deathless victories. Alphias conquered many to his side that way. True victory lies in adding their will to ours freely, in service or friendship -- total destruction of the other is a waste, but not rare.
Where your stump was, now your will is there, twisting hydrogen fire into a burning, clawed hand. You took the design from an Infected beast you once saw, and it roils with heat.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 12:12:30 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 12:22:07 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 12:24:32 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 28, 2020, 02:09:18 am
I would suggest: [You currently serve Magnus then. Consider which side you, and he, would like to be on in this war. You have seen the power I can wield at an ignorant fraction of my skill among backwater simpletons. In the case of a fight here and your loss, I will either escape or come up with some plan for victory. Either way Magnus loses out. If you stand aside and help fight off the plague you can at least keep an eye on me and sabotage me at a more opportune time. You might win and reset or destroy me, but then you will face the plague alone for however many years.]
Bah I cant reduce it down any someone else come up with something better. Its basically better for her to stand at our side with a knife then stick it in at this point.
Option 2 is hijacking their ships but the level of automation the current fleets use is unknown to me.
Option 3 is orbital mines filled with the [plague] highly distasteful obviously, but an option.
Honestly the planet is just too primitive for much of this to work.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 04:53:23 am
Phoenix let's you feel it then, an ancient bloodlust that resonates between the two of you. A will to dominate the other, to beat them. To win. It's the same determination that gave you the strength to rip your arm off, to devour it, all to continue fighting.
It is ancient, older than the Line, and it echoes from deep within.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 07:47:48 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 28, 2020, 08:22:55 am
((I feel like I've missed out not asking about the past life thing that everyone else did, I thought about asking when the question was asked but forgot to.))
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 08:55:11 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 09:09:45 am
I'll get you hooked up Zultan. Although that is the last one.
[-] You both take your time, provoking one another. Your will whips through the room like a raging firestorm, fierce and energetic, burning upwards with buoyancy. Her's is dense and spreading, like oil, like tar, making the room heavier with its presence. William and Emma have to back away, both growing pale. The Null that accompanies them looks ill -- then falls to the floor in seizure. The Warmachines and Crusaders cannot stand it, passing out from the exchange.
"[Did you think it would be that easy?]" Iyal questions, lifting a brow.
"[I had hoped so, yes.]" You respond. The glass window behind Iyal begins to crack -- particles of dust are stuck suspended between the two opposing forces, inertia and gravity cancelled by the exchange.
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 09:40:08 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 09:48:43 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 09:57:01 am
Arrange your duel, Phoenix-of-Sol. Somewhere far from the mountain. Explain to your successors the nature of the duel, and promise-- promise to Emma-- you will return. You need not fight to the death. Tell her so.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 10:11:55 am
[Why not work together against the plague? Surely it threatens all of us. Let’s fight it instead of each other]
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 11:58:31 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 12:16:37 pm
This is a matter of honor now. A clash between demigods. If we are to earn this one's respect, we will face her alone: by our own skill, by our own power. She'll bow to nothing less.
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 12:17:29 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 12:28:19 pm
"Emma amd William, let's focus all our will on her at once. I don't think she can resist three Empyreals."-1
I agree with Constantine
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 12:31:19 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 12:47:04 pm
If Iyai has 9 willpower in your example, she can split off 3 willpower to Emma and William, beating out their willpower and adding 2 willpower to her side, turning them against us
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 12:49:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 12:53:33 pm
Can we communicate with E and W telepathically?
We've not shown much in the way of verbal telepathy, but they can feel our will for sure: our presence, our emotions. We could perhaps manage more than that, but we've never really tried.
Let's say that our will would need a strength of ten to overpower Iyal. If our will has a strength of eight, and if Emma and William each have a strength of one, that would mean that our combined strength would overpower Iyal, even though the Thorntons are much weaker than us.
Too many hypotheticals for my liking. We don't know the strength of Iyal's will, and we'll pay dearly if we underestimate it... I'll not risk making collateral of those closest to us.
This scion of Lavoisier-- (I refuse to call her Iyal; that name was a lie--) we need her. She's called an ugly storm down on our head, and she can help guide us through... if we earn her respect. We'll beat her on her own terms.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 12:56:30 pm
[Why not work together against the plague? Surely it threatens all of us. Let’s fight it instead of each other]
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 12:59:30 pm
what do you think of these words?[Why not work together against the plague? Surely it threatens all of us. Let’s fight it instead of each other]
+1, but remain alert for any movements from her while speaking.
Avoiding will because I don't want to take the risk of her overpowering Emma and William.
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 01:17:25 pm
I have made my intentions clear, Phoenix-of-Sol. If words are needed, these words I offer.
Withdraw our will a bit: a shield rather than a sword, for ourself and our kinsfolk.
"We fight in earnest, then: a contest of will, away from the mountain. I've no quarrel with your people-- but I will not be made beholden to them. I'll try their emissary by fire first."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 01:22:09 pm
They are lovely words-- but alas, the time for words is now past. Now comes the defense of bitter honor.+1, this is better
I have made my intentions clear, Phoenix-of-Sol. If words are needed, these words I offer.
Withdraw our will a bit: a shield rather than a sword, for ourself and our kinsfolk.
"We fight in earnest, then: a contest of will, away from the mountain. I've no quarrel with the line Lavoisier-- but I will not be made beholden to it. I'll try its emissary by fire first."
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 28, 2020, 01:43:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 01:52:12 pm
Yes, what about saying this while using our willwhat do you think of these words?[Why not work together against the plague? Surely it threatens all of us. Let’s fight it instead of each other]
+1, but remain alert for any movements from her while speaking.
Avoiding will because I don't want to take the risk of her overpowering Emma and William.
Does that make sense?
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 28, 2020, 02:09:34 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 02:15:16 pm
We must fight. It doesn't have to be to the death, but a hierarchy of Willpower must be drawn between us. It is our way.
Phoenix let's you feel it then, an ancient bloodlust that resonates between the two of you. A will to dominate the other, to beat them. To win. It's the same determination that gave you the strength to rip your arm off, to devour it, all to continue fighting.
It is ancient, older than the Line, and it echoes from deep within.
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 02:20:53 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 02:27:32 pm
As I understand it... the interactions of our kind have their utmost foundation on the hierarchy of raw power. If the position of two Empyreals is at first unclear, there must be a battle for supremacy-- to avoid this battle is to submit. There can be no equals.Ok, Continue fighting with our will
Question, would endurance help with this or not?
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 02:30:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 02:37:15 pm
If we continue fighting here with our wills, what's to stop her from deciding to try to dominate the minds of Emma and William? Avoiding that seems important to you.Correct. We should try getting her away from them, maybe by going outside
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 02:38:50 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 28, 2020, 05:30:52 pm
I hate PMs because I can't edit them. So many grammar and bad word choices. Why am I like this -- and why doesn't this software I have help correct that! -.-'Aw. Did you run out of backgrounds or that you always had a hard limit on the number of backgrounds for the players?
I'll get you hooked up Zultan. Although that is the last one.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 06:03:26 pm
"[...I agree, let us go somewhere else. I will try Magnus' Emissary by fire.]" You murmur tightly --, and you drop your will. Lavoisier's Scion bows her head, doing the same. William and Emma slump, looking tired, breathing hard.
"[That's for the best.]" She nods, giving you a smile in exchange. "[I feel riding in an elevator together to the pad would be anti-climatic, no? I'll fix this.]" Lavoisier's Scion crudely throws one of the chairs through the window, sending it spiraling to the mountain below. She reaches out with her will, ripping apart the plastics of another to form larger and larger wings, which she compacts and folds within the tight space.
You, having no such time requirement to summon your's, instead go to the shell-shocked Emma, who stares at Lavoisier's Scion with a slack jaw and pale countenance. You pull her tightly into a hug and then give her a kiss, which she returns when her senses return. "Pheb-e I..."
You kiss her again, speaking softly with your forehead resting against her's, embracing her. "We're going to fight-- not to the death. I will return."
Emma glances between the two of you then gives a weak, small nod. "I love you." It is about all she can manage.
"I love you too."
You unrestrain your wings, letting them heat the cold room. Lavoisier's Scion stretches one side, then the other, her lips quirking into a frown. Thick black lines stretch out from her back, and each wing almost seems to fill the room. She gives them an experimental flap and glances at you. Without further ado, she takes a running start and launches herself out of the broken window. Her wings of plastic feathers twist open, catching the wind. And she rises ungracefully into the air.
I was hoping to hear a splat...
You, however, are the epitome of grace as you step out of the window and rise into the sky above your new fortress. The air here is cold, and the oxygen thin, but not so bad, not yet. Your greedy lungs work in overtime as you set off towards the north, guided by the light of the stars. You can hear Lavoisier's Scion behind you, trying to keep pace with her cumbersome wings. When you drop down onto a sandy, barren plain in the middle of a crater, she's nowhere in sight.
It takes her an hour to find you, and she scowls when she drops down.
"[You left me behind.]" Lavoisier's Scion states when she folds her wings upon her back.
"[You betrayed my trust. I don't know why you expect anything less than pettiness from me.]" You retort, bluntly. To the Scion's credit, she frowns. Then, slowly, she takes off the mask of Iyal and reveals herself. She looks similar to you, with an androgynous face, with eyes a cold, dark gray. Her hair is of the same color but shines with oil in the light of the stars, and her skin is pale, nearly translucent. She flashes you a smile filled with only slightly too pointed teeth.
"[I'm sorry.]" She states gently, genuinely, "[I am Cephie of Lavoisier, in service to Empyreal Noble Scion Magnus The Third of House Magnus.]"
"[I am Pheobe, Pheonix of Sol.]"
"[Alphira is truly dead then?]"
"[I consumed any memories and identity she might have had left.]"
Cephie gives a hesitant nod at that, "[She was a contract breaker, by all accounts. Killed her own men when they refused to flee beyond the edge of the rim, into the Neverending Void.]"
You shrug, unable to remember the deeds accused.
Cephie approaches, and you tense. She removes a small pouch, pulling out two small, round capsules. "[Do you remember these?]"
"[No.]"
"[Take all the nutrition of entire feasts, compress the atoms, and then surround it with nano-assemblers. You'll get these. Each one gives me roughly twenty-four [ uses of power] You might be different -- you're a bit more energetic than me.]"
She gets into your personal space, but you still, taking the capsule in hand, it's not water, or alcohol, or wine, but it will do. You pop the tablet into your mouth with your arm intertwined in hers. Cephie does the same, and the two of you return to your positions. Without further ceremony, the two of you return to your previous levels of willpower -- she is not as strong as you, but not so weak that you can consume her.
...she has more experience and utility.
"[After this,]" You begin, rising on your wings while she rips hers apart, letting them fall to the ground, "[One way or the other, we must fight the plague on this world.]"
"[I agree. Magnus, I'm sure, if you don't upset him, will render aid with that as well if it is necessary.]"
You both sit just on the edge of the other's will, her looking up at you, you looking down at her.
Then you exchange the first blow.
[12][7 vs. 6][8]
[2+1 vs. 20] Sharp darts whistle haphazardly through the air as Cephie backs up, and you fly closer, gathering your willpower up in an Inferno. You lash at her with it, striking at her physical form. The flesh of her right side boils and singes as you scour her torso and arm down to the bone. She grits her teeth, and while your will is focused on the Inferno, she lashes at you with her's. You reel, your wings failing as she interrupts the process that keeps you aloft. You bend your legs as you hit the ground, but your knee pops loudly, and you nearly buckle and fall. You do not heal -- and neither does she, wrapping the wound tightly with carbon crystals.
"[Are you so sure about your master's intent that opposing me is wise? Is our honest self-reflection so dangerous to his plans?]"
[3] "[One of your ancestors must have been a poet.]" Cephie retorts. You laugh, giving her a feral grin, which she returns in kind.
[20][14 vs 13][15]
[12+1 vs. 8] You do not make the same mistake, you concentrate your willpower into a spear while focusing your Inferno into a beam of heat. You jab haphazardly with the former, and take careful aim with the other-- Cephie focuses on shielding herself, but you interrupt her. She screams in pain as the fires wash over her, collapsing back with a heave of her chest. She shifts, dragging herself back to her feet, her torso and face a mess of burnt and charred flesh.
[9][5 vs 11][10]
[9+1 vs. 4] Cephie begins to move, dancing across the battlefield gracefully, even as you burn away the surface below with scouring flames. She doesn't retort, her burnt skin falls away to be consumed by your fires as she heals. You lash out with your willpower, and she falters, stumbling to the ground with a grunt.
[20 vs. 1] "[I'm not a good match for you.]" Cephie admits, with a pained wince as she rises, "[It might be rude to yield so quickly, but I don't think I can provide you with a good battle. Would you mind?]"
...usually these last a lot longer...I'm...I'm kinda dissapointed it was that easy. This was supposed to be our testing blows.
The sun begins to rise on the horizon, as you stare down at Cephie with disappointment. "Uh..." Is about all you can stammer, as she slumps down, rubbing at her face -- is she...is she crying?!
You float above, awkwardly.
So much for experienced!
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 06:13:02 pm
Ahem.
Wait for Cephie to rise to her feet (but keep an eye on her.) We can afford to be gracious now, as befits our celestial* heritage.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 06:33:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 06:38:34 pm
All things considered, this has gone beautifully. We've a foothold now in the Void, with people who (hopefully) aren't actively trying to kill us!
It'd be against dueling creed to yield in falsehood, I assume.
Sigh, nod. "I accept your capitulation."
Descend, slow and gentle-- with a bit of a smile, perhaps. "Can't win 'em all. What happens now, Cephie of Lavoisier?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 06:43:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 06:43:21 pm
"Fake" is perhaps overmuch-- this is, after all, the girl we knew as Iyal.+1
All things considered, this has gone beautifully. We've a foothold now in the Void, with people who (hopefully) aren't actively trying to kill us!
It'd be against dueling creed to yield in falsehood, I assume.
Sigh, nod. "I accept your capitulation."
Descend, slow and gentle-- with a bit of a smile, perhaps. "Can't win 'em all. What happens now, Cephie of Lavoisier?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 06:58:24 pm
The blow never comes, Cephie nodding, "I yield."
Cephie straightens, breathing out a heavy breath as you descend. You knit your leg back together, wincing in pain as your knee pops back into place. The shattered bone and broken ligaments knitting themselves back together. You wiggle your toes and bend it as you approach. You think about standing over her, instead, you sit next to her with a crunch of the salty sand below. Cephie sighs as she peels the last of her burnt skin off.
"[How many of our kind have you fought before?]" You question.
"[Only one other...but if you're not Alphira, this was your first time, wasn't it?]"
You nod in response, and she breathes out another sigh. "[We can't win all of our battles. What happens now?]"
"[I killed the loser of my first.]" She murmurs. "[I don't have my deathwish yet.]"
"[How...long have you been...?]"
"[Eight years, personal time.]" Cephie responds, with a sigh. Personal time being a measure of time awake from cryosleep or other time dilation; a personal clock of life events unrelated to anything else but private reckoning. Spacers and Voiddwellers usually are the only ones who keep track, treating themselves as a vessel in of themselves.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 07:05:34 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 07:25:19 pm
We would do well, I think, to make an ally once more of this "Cephie". She is for time being our best hope at survival among the stars.
"Mm."
Let the silence hang a bit.
"...I always counted Iyal a friend, you know-- even if she put a knife to my back by way of first greeting." Glance askance. "I should like to count Cephie of Lavoisier the same way, if she'll have it."
...
"What does your master want with me and the people who live here?"
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 07:39:01 pm
Not much of a foothold, perhaps-- but a foothold all the same! I'm just glad these people aren't actively chasing the bounty on our head.+1
We would do well, I think, to make an ally once more of this "Cephie". She is for time being our best hope at survival among the stars.
"Mm."
Let the silence hang a bit.
"...I always counted Iyal a friend, you know-- even if she put a knife to my back by way of first greeting." Glance askance. "I should like to count Cephie of Lavoisier the same way, if she'll have it."
..."What does your master want with me and the people who live here?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 07:40:54 pm
You nod. The Empyre established universal rights for all sentient humans. Protection from threats such as Plague, from Pirates, from unchained artificial intelligences. Wars had rules. Petty empires couldn't put entire planets to the torch. Genocide and wholesale slaughter was answered with an Empyrean Naval fleet.
"[As for you...I don't know. I was told to monitor and contain you, and alert him if you had Void capabilities.]"
"[I counted Iyal as a friend. Even if she put a knife in my back by way of first greeting.]" You offer, "[You two are similar, in that regard.]"
"[I'm bound to Magnus by contract. I will not break it...he's the one who granted me my Ascendence. He'll probably take it from me for my failure.]" Cephie replies crisply.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 07:45:24 pm
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 07:52:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 08:01:21 pm
Nod. "I assumed as much."
"How was I to be-- contained?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 08:06:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 08:17:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 08:29:15 pm
"[By whatever means I saw fit. They didn't end well, did they?]" Cephie murmurs with a shrug of her slender shoulders.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 08:36:02 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 28, 2020, 09:06:22 pm
Will it really take 12 years to get here? So fast and yet so slow.
We should ask her to make a secondary contract with us. Nothing that would betray her primary one. An oath to support us until her master comes or she feels it would be against his wishes and to alert us when she is leaving our service. When she does leave she would agree to a 24 hour cease fire with us and to carry a message to her superior.
She seems the honorable type I suppose and getting her to directly agree to a contract would be useful.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 09:19:36 pm
"[A small dropship. I dropped down in the salt plains of the east, and blended in with the Outlanders for a time. They're primitive, but honorable. I served as a Warchief, for a year there, before my Clan was destroyed.]" Cephie shrugs a shoulder, then glances at you, "[We could leave here. You, your kindred and myself. The ship has four cryopods -- it can't leave system, but it could get us off-world until Magnus arrives.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 09:21:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 09:26:13 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 09:27:50 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 28, 2020, 09:34:08 pm
There is a hard limit to the number of prime ancestors that the MC has. If you don't mind a weaker cadet branch or a rigorous, very tightly controlled life story, then it isn't an issue. The Cadets Branches have limited importance on the story, but the strict one has a great importance but isn't very open-ended.I don't mind a cadet branch background.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 28, 2020, 09:35:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 09:36:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 09:40:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 28, 2020, 09:57:56 pm
"...I'm not Alphira. I'm-- someone new, made to fit her body-- I was born on this world, really. It's become a home to me. Its people are my people. I could never leave them to the plague that way, not when we've still a chance against it."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 10:03:40 pm
"[What are Magnus' forces like?]"
"[Do you really want to know?]" Cephie questions, looking over to you with a raised brow. "[His Family's capital ship could rip apart this planet. The soldiers at his beck and call are literally endless -- I am the weakest of his servants.]" She shakes her head gently, "[As a Noble of the Empyre, he could call up any number of Naval Fleets to assist him. Any Officers in range, be they Admiral or Captain would serve, on pain of death. Or worse.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 10:07:36 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 10:17:14 pm
"[All ten ships are wreckage now, floating out there. They managed to land a single shot on the Frigate.]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 10:20:06 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 28, 2020, 10:21:09 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 10:22:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 10:24:01 pm
Her lips quirk into a scowl, for the first time. "[The Nobles destroyed Paradise Planet Arcadia.]"
Post by: Eschar on April 28, 2020, 10:25:28 pm
["Arcadia being...?"]
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 10:25:43 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on April 28, 2020, 10:53:40 pm
Anyway.
I support retrieving the ship and keeping both cryo ships as a backup plan. Cant have too many backup plans.
But we fight the plague now.
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 10:54:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 11:01:55 pm
The first ring is the Empyreal, otherwise known as Paradise, or Heaven, or by many other names. Most Spacers call it the Empyreal Core. A vast number of planets in orbit around a massive, man-made blackhole that's used to generate energy. The Nobles control the cost of this energy, and, with it, control the Empyreal Galaxy. Within the core is what can only be described as heaven. Hard light simulations creating anything the Nobles might need or ever want. Through energy manipulation, they can create matter. Nobody besides Nobility and those chosen by them can enter, as a great wall of light envelopes the entirety of it. Around this axis, the galaxy turns.
Around this is the Inner Empyre. The next most advanced empires, nations, and planets. Great planet-wide cities, industrial centers that use entire stars and planets. Gaia worlds. The closest system outside of the Core was settled by exiled Nobles. One Family used the Hard Light technology to create a place where anyone could taste heaven -- for a price. The rich and lucky flocked to it, and one day upon that world was something spoken of for generations to come. It became a mark of success. Paradise Planet Arcadia.
The Outer Empyre is considered by many to be the dregs, but that's not true. The Outer Empyre is a patchwork collection of vessel states, industrial centers, hive worlds, and many more specialized worlds. They do most of their trade with the Inner Empyre. Technology there is advanced but is considered the baseline for the Empyre.
And then you reach The Rim. Seedships settled these worlds the same, but the Empyreal Gates have not yet reached this far in. The Pirate clans from before the Foundation found refuge in this part of the Empyre. It's the most underdeveloped and unexplored part of the entire galaxy. The technology levels here vary massively. Some have colonies from the Outer Empyre, while some have naught but sharpened stones and fire.
Many squiggly lines are drawn, radiating out from the core like spokes in a wheel. These are the Empyreal Gates. Most civilized systems have one, and it is the central source of trade in the system. Some are ancient. Some are brand new. The routes are endless, but organized -- but not even the Nobility have maps for all of it. Depending on the time, they might lead to another system. Or they might be fixed routes. Another piece of the Endless Emperor's technology. The success of travel, you remember, is something like ninety-seven percent. One percent you wind up at a completely different gate. One percent you wind up in some unknown star system that doesn't have a gate. And one percent chance of just completely vanishing. Time dilation when traveling with the gate system is completely nullified -- but there are legends of ancient fleets emerging from the gates, confused as to why thousands of years have passed since they left.
Only the Endless controls the Gates, and they are truly neutral -- Pirates do not destroy them, Nobility do not try to configure the routes, and a blockade of one is considered the best way to get everyone truly pissed at you.
Cephie draws one last dot, on the outside of the Rim's boundary. "[We're here.]"
"[Doing so would violate my contract. I cannot lie to him.]" She raises her brow after a pause, glancing over to you, "[And do you really think that I have -that- much sway with him?]"
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 11:07:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 11:13:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 28, 2020, 11:15:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 28, 2020, 11:28:50 pm
"[His preferred form makes me think he's younger than most nobles. Going by that...he looks about our age, black hair. Always frowning. He's got that perfectly engineered single-gender look that the Nobles love to wear when they go into the wider Empyre.]" Cephie offers, with a shrug. ["But none of that really matter-- actually, hold on.]"
Her willpower coils around her, skin shifting and changing around, manipulating the matter within. Your breath catches in your throat when she grins down at you with Magnus' face upon her form.
According to Emma, he kills you with a cutter blade in a field.
Post by: Eschar on April 29, 2020, 12:01:59 am
According to Emma, he kills you with a cutter blade in a field.
What the [hell] does this mean?!
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 12:03:17 am
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 29, 2020, 12:03:33 am
Post by: Eschar on April 29, 2020, 12:06:49 am
It's possible I overreacted.
I have, as noted, much to learn.
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 12:45:41 am
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 12:46:38 am
It has become imperative that we find out.
"That face-- Cephie, I recognize that face. An omen-- he was driving a Cutter blade through my torso--"
"...one future. It was only one future. Still... I need to know exactly what he wants with me. You say you've been in contact with him?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 12:48:26 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 12:58:56 am
She shakes his head, frowning naturally, "And I hope he doesn't want to fight you."
"Why?" You question, looking away from the rising sun.
"He's a Noble. Ascendeds, we've got control over one element, maybe two. Energy control too. They have all of them. Or some variation thereof, all brand new, highest quality tech. I'm not sure they can even be considered the least bit human anymore, all the tech that they get stuffed in them."
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 01:33:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 02:00:28 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 02:07:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 03:19:16 am
She eventually tells you about her life -- she was a Spacer's brat. They traveled a lot in service to Magnus. As a reward, she was given a contract and Dust, becoming an assassin and intelligence officer for him. It seems she specialized in intelligence gathering, as she had a great deal of experience in dealing with the many varied cultures of the Empyre.
The conversation winds down to a close as the day finishes breaking over the land.
If you wish to forge a contract with Celphie, you feel now would be the time.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 06:48:04 am
After you finish explaining, she nods, then asks you about your time at the Academy. If you had other friends -- she seems surprised when you mentioned that you were originally planning to pursue a more peaceful career. She asks you about McCreary, and a dozen other topics, and you respond honestly -- leaving out the power you inherited from him.I would like to, but I don’t know what the contract would be, it would hopefully be that we help the people here by destroying the plague and ... can others add?
She eventually tells you about her life -- she was a Spacer's brat. They traveled a lot in service to Magnus. As a reward, she was given a contract and Dust, becoming an assassin and intelligence officer for him. It seems she specialized in intelligence gathering, as she had a great deal of experience in dealing with the many varied cultures of the Empyre.
The conversation winds down to a close as the day finishes breaking over the land.
If you wish to forge a contract with Celphie, you feel now would be the time.
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 12:20:39 pm
"Cephie... if Magnus were to order you to kill me, or to kill Emma. You would comply?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 04:30:33 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 05:39:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 05:44:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 06:03:39 pm
"I'm worried you'd succeed."
"You... got the drop on me today. You'd a tentacle set to tear my organs to shreds before I knew what was happening. I survived because you weren't trying to kill me-- if not for that, I'd probably have died right then and there. What happens if you get different orders?"
Sigh. "You're a threat, Cephie. I'm not going to kill you for it... but I don't for the life of me know what to do with you."
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 06:18:06 pm
+1, might as well make use of her.Indeed. Once that's done, we can consider the question in earnest-- but for the time being, we've more immediate problems to consider.Magnus isn’t trying to kill us, how about “Will you be willing to help us fight the plague and assist with increasing the tech level of this planet? We can be allies even if our minds are separate.”
"I'm worried you'd succeed."
"You... got the drop on me today. You'd a tentacle set to tear my organs to shreds before I knew what was happening. I survived because you weren't trying to kill me-- if not for that, I'd probably have died right then and there. What happens if you get different orders?"
Sigh. "You're a threat, Cephie. I'm not going to kill you for it... but I don't for the life of me know what to do with you."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 06:21:24 pm
Indeed. Once that's done, we can consider the question in earnest-- but for the time being, we've more immediate problems to consider.Magnus isn’t trying to kill us, how about “Will you be willing to help us fight the plague and assist with increasing the tech level of this planet? We can be allies”
"I'm worried you'd succeed."
"You... got the drop on me today. You'd a tentacle set to tear my organs to shreds before I knew what was happening. I survived because you weren't trying to kill me-- if not for that, I'd probably have died right then and there. What happens if you get different orders?"
Sigh. "You're a threat, Cephie. I'm not going to kill you for it... but I don't for the life of me know what to do with you."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on April 29, 2020, 06:29:23 pm
+1+1, might as well make use of her.Indeed. Once that's done, we can consider the question in earnest-- but for the time being, we've more immediate problems to consider.Magnus isn’t trying to kill us, how about “Will you be willing to help us fight the plague and assist with increasing the tech level of this planet? We can be allies even if our minds are separate.”
"I'm worried you'd succeed."
"You... got the drop on me today. You'd a tentacle set to tear my organs to shreds before I knew what was happening. I survived because you weren't trying to kill me-- if not for that, I'd probably have died right then and there. What happens if you get different orders?"
Sigh. "You're a threat, Cephie. I'm not going to kill you for it... but I don't for the life of me know what to do with you."
Spoiler: Cadet background I got. (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 06:34:12 pm
Only thing is... "even if our minds are separate"? Seems a strange turn of phrase.
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 06:43:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 07:12:08 pm
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer, I suppose. I'm still inclined to make our concerns known-- Cephie might have an idea on that front.She wanted us turned into an extension of herself, too control our body and place her mind within, destroying ours. That is why I said that
Only thing is... "even if our minds are separate"? Seems a strange turn of phrase.
Unless “ My intention was to keep you alive, as a puppet” means something else
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 07:16:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 07:18:38 pm
Oh that. That was figurative, yeah-- she intended to cow us with her little display of power, so's we'd be properly beholden to her. Think what we did to the Pontifex.Oh, I thought it was literal, I thought we were like Unity, able to control other bodies, our bios mentioned essence strengthening others, and Alphira was inside of 3 bodies at one point, if she would have consumed the Interface in Emma, William and us, as well as us, she would have had total control of 3 bodies. I will edit that mind bit out now that I realize the figurativeness
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 07:22:36 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 07:24:56 pm
We gave Alphira freely to those two, as part of their Line. She's a voice to them, presumably-- nothing more. Blood transfer isn't mind control.Yes, Phoenix was able to eat the Interface and Alphira in the body we share. Cephie could have done something similar with us once she got inside of us via blood transfer
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 07:51:41 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 07:59:38 pm
Hmm... we can't be sure it doesn't work like that until we try, I suppose.We’re not going to try that. I was explaining what I thought Cephie would do
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 08:00:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 29, 2020, 08:04:01 pm
I don't think it's impossible to use Dust to control more than one body at a time.It might be possible, but let;s try to work with her without attempting that
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 08:38:56 pm
You could've, that's true.
"I want you to take a secondary contract with me. Nothing that would betray your primary one. An oath to support us until your master comes or you feel it would be against his wishes. To alert us when you are leaving our service. When you leave you will agree to a twenty-four hour ceasefire with us and to carry a message to Magnus. You are not to harm Emma or William, either, until such a time as that ceasefire runs out."
Cephie listens quietly, still picking at her arm. "If I refuse to take this oath?"
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 08:40:44 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 09:03:07 pm
"We'll negotiate."
+1
"I'm inclined to help you, if I can."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 09:08:08 pm
Don't be.
[3 vs 12][20] "I'll kill you and devour your Dust. Then your identity. You'll become something less than nothing, not even a dream." You reply instead, turning to look down at her with an easy smile. She flinches as panic washes over her face, her facade cracking. Even her willpower reacts, wrapping tightly around her. She huddles within like a blanket. You increase your's, letting it rage, all while keeping a calm facade.
[18]"I was told to choose life over glorious death if the situation came to it. I have no option, then, do I?"
She takes your oath, binding herself to your will for the next twelve years.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 09:21:55 pm
"In regards to the plague and reclaiming districts, how can you be of most help?"
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 09:23:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 09:31:53 pm
"I am trained in intelligence and a master of disguise. These people have no defenses against my Line." Cephie stretches, rising to her feet. With a look to you, she slowly hunches, her spine bending, her form thinning, hair going gray, her face becomes weathered and aged, until she resembles Nicole Gainer. "I've already demonstrated my ability as an assassin. I have ties to the Outlander clans, and know enough of their culture to manipulate them."
She slowly changes back, but keeps the tanned skin of Iyal, stroking out brown hair.
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 09:42:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 29, 2020, 10:01:47 pm
Your new vassal would do well among the Outlanders, methinks. Many were lost in SEED's great holocaust-- ὅλος καυστός, the whole-burnt sacrifice-- you have need now of soldiers, and of resources. Cephie could do much in that regard.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 10:02:48 pm
Just don't put her behind me.
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 10:07:43 pm
"Point taken. I can see how you would be useful when negotiating with district survivors. Do you think your people would be amenable to some kind of alliance?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 10:12:13 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 10:13:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 10:23:11 pm
Cephie looks up at you. "If they feel slighted, they do not hesitate to go back on their dealings."
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 10:28:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 10:32:43 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 10:34:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2020, 10:44:01 pm
"If you managed to snag yourself a prince or princess, you could have your way in." Cephie explains, after a beat. "Marrying into the clan gives you a bond, and they respect family greatly."
Post by: Eschar on April 29, 2020, 11:02:46 pm
That doesn't sound like particularly fertile ground for compromise.
Well, SEED's religion thought us evil too. We're a demon's demon. Maybe we can work from that. Enemy of my enemy and all.
...but from Cephie's advice I don't think it'll be enough.
Post by: ZBridges on April 29, 2020, 11:07:46 pm
On a side note, in order to prepare for possible invasion, the following technologies available to us may be helpful:
- Mark 1 Void Colony Ship
- Mark 1 Void Defense Station of various designs
- Antimatter Fusion and Hydrogen Fusion Warheads, along with a number of payload delivery systems
- Cryogenic Life Support Systems
- Advanced Terraforming Techniques and Plants
- Mark 1 Void Defense Land Based Gun Array of various designs
Post by: King Zultan on April 30, 2020, 09:00:21 am
Also earlier it was said that las-guns wouldn't pierce the armour of the bigger [plague] creatures and it was also said that conventional guns had better piercing power than las-guns so what if we started fielding .50 BMG anti-tank rifles to deal with the bigger ones or even rocket launchers would work I mean we could probably use any anti-tank weapon on them.
Spoiler: Also here is my life line. (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 30, 2020, 09:19:39 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 04:30:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2020, 06:25:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 06:48:36 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 30, 2020, 06:51:34 pm
"We'll leave that to our scientists and engineers. I hope we can work together despite our differences to protect humanity, as our main directive compels us to. One day, we may become enemies, but for now we are bound to one another by oath. Shall we return to the other Empyreals, the Thorntons, and inform them of our new arrangement?"we should. We should also work on forges so we can make metal to start building things. We can ask the engineers to teach us and Cephie how to build, so we can be of more hel- than simply instructing
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 07:53:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 30, 2020, 08:26:56 pm
In my opinion, it's better for us to leave that to others. Our powers are designed to help us fight, so doing too much of anything else would be a waste.fair, what if we and Cephie attack some of the plague;s buildings?
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 08:41:34 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 30, 2020, 09:06:40 pm
Post by: Superdorf on April 30, 2020, 09:31:35 pm
"Not oversee, no… but perhaps something along those lines."
"The Industrial Districts are severed at this time from my control. They may be unharmed by recent events-- or they may be taken by fire, by plague, by encroaching Outlanders and the like. We don't know."
"That's where you come in. Find out what infrastructure remains to us outside the mountain; claim what you can for our purposes, by whatever means you deem necessary. Keep me posted on the proceedings. We've a great deal of SEED tech we can put into production, once you've got the factories back in contact with us."
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 09:35:04 pm
I imagine our host would be... ill at ease, fighting alongside this one. If I might put forth an alternative?+1
"Not oversee, no… but perhaps something along those lines."
"The Industrial Districts are severed at this time from my control. They may be unharmed by recent events-- or they may be taken by fire, by plague, by encroaching Outlanders and the like. We don't know."
"That's where you come in. Find out what infrastructure remains to us outside the mountain; claim what you can for our purposes, by whatever means you deem necessary. Keep me posted on the proceedings. We've a great deal of SEED tech we can put into production, once you've got the factories back in contact with us."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on April 30, 2020, 09:41:19 pm
I agree that we need to reclaim those districts ASAP, and not-Iyal has proven herself to be very capable. I think we can leave this task to her while we focus on the plague proper.+1I imagine our host would be... ill at ease, fighting alongside this one. If I might put forth an alternative?+1
"Not oversee, no… but perhaps something along those lines."
"The Industrial Districts are severed at this time from my control. They may be unharmed by recent events-- or they may be taken by fire, by plague, by encroaching Outlanders and the like. We don't know."
"That's where you come in. Find out what infrastructure remains to us outside the mountain; claim what you can for our purposes, by whatever means you deem necessary. Keep me posted on the proceedings. We've a great deal of SEED tech we can put into production, once you've got the factories back in contact with us."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2020, 11:15:57 pm
Emma looks up from her pacing, halting in her tracks to look you over with a critical eye. Checking for injuries, for damage, but finding none. Besides your ruined clothing, you're perfectly intact, and she heaves a sigh of relief. Her tense shoulders slump down, and they both listen intently when you speak.
"We've struck a deal." You inform them, filling them in on the details of the oath. Neither look pleased, but they don't protest.
"The Child of SEED is all but dead. Brain hemorrhage. Everyone else is fine." Emma explains when you finish, suddenly taking you by the hand. You don't respond, and Emma doesn't explain, dragging you into your bedroom. "Strip, shower, and get dressed. Your speech is in an hour."
You obey without hesitation, washing quickly and drying your hair while you dress. You pull on your clothes, using your training from the Academy to dress quickly and precisely. When you finish drying your hair, Emma pulls a capelet from a package, fixing it over your missing arm. Stylized upon it is your new symbol in red ink, She adjusts it as she quietly briefs you on it, "Don't get it wet. The dye will run."
You nod. William waits in the hallway, fixing his uniform. Emma pauses to do the same, and the two follow you into the elevator. It starts to sink, along with your stomach.
You pass through on gantries overlooking the amphitheater and are surprised to find it packed full of people. They huddle close, pressing against one another -- more than just the Crusaders. Children are sat upon shoulders, and the Main elevator is packed with an unmoving crowd. The stage awaits, and you can feel the familiar panic rising up within you.
I can do this. I can do this. You repeat to yourself, staring at the door to the stage.
[5] I don't think I can do this.
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2020, 11:58:23 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 01, 2020, 12:11:57 am
Peace. Courage. Peace. Courage. You are the [angel], and these are your people. You are Phoenix-of-Sol, and this is your story. Show them your wings. Show them your fire. Speak with truth. Speak with love. Yours is a strong and noble spark!
Post by: King Zultan on May 01, 2020, 07:17:48 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 01, 2020, 07:30:59 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 01, 2020, 10:29:09 pm
[12]You emerge on to the stage, feeling a little weak when all eyes come to rest on you. The low murmurs that fill the amphitheater end. The crowd is watching, waiting, with bated breath.
"The Great Work today has suffered the most significant loss recorded in our long history. Three days ago, The Holy City fell. SEED, our creator, in all its wisdom, destroyed itself with purifying flames rather than let its strength fall to corruption."
"SEED fell because we were weak."
You delay, looking out over the crowd—stern, unbroken, and cold. You stretch your willpower out, reaching as far as you can, making the Crusader officers in front go pale with your frozen fury. One faints. The crowd cannot meet your gaze.
"The Plague can create millions of abominations, thousands of beasts, with shells hard as steel, with twisting tentacles, with devouring teeth. They have no fear. They feel no pain. And they are dead set on ridding this planet of humanity."
"Humans are weak. You live short lives, filled with strife, with pain. You live short lives, falling prey to despair, to cowardice, to fear. How can creatures, so weak, so miserable, stand up to something like that?"
"This failure, it will stain our history until the end of time. I can no longer bear the name given to me by SEED. I can no longer bear the sin of this failure."
[18]The crowd looks morose, down beaten -- angry. Angry at you. You're on the verge of a full-scale riot. Your people shuffle restlessly, Crusaders included. You send out a pulse of your willpower, watching the anger turn to helplessness. People begin to cry.
"I will tell you."
[13] You pull back your willpower, conjuring forth a flicker of fire in the air behind you, a spark of light in the dim amphitheater.
"The Plague knows no fear, so they have never known bravery. The Plague knows no pain, so they have never known determination. The Plague is eternal, so they have never known the struggle to survive. The Plague does not know the value of human life."
[7] With each sentence, you let the fire grow in size, carving lines and crescents in the air behind you. You manipulate the light, so it burns weaker in color until a soft red glow illuminates you from behind.
"We will fight them like the weak have always fought the strong. We will rise to this struggle! We will rise to face them with bravery, with determination, with fear, with anger, with aggression! We will fight tooth, and nail like only the truly fearful know how to. We will get our revenge! We will scour this planet of these pestilent worms until nothing of them remains. Nothing but stories to frighten your grandchildren with!"
"We will rise from the ashes of SEED. We will use this tragedy to sharpen our blades and harden our hearts. We will become stronger from our defeats, until the stars quake beneath the step of our boots!"
The crowd is frothing at the bit, filled with aggression, with your anger, with bloody joy.
"I will rise with you. Out of our mutual sin. No longer can I be named Alphira. I cannot bear that name without feeling the pain of loss in my heart. Know me now as your new living God. Know me as Pheonix!"
"As your God I demand but one from you to reach Paradise! Should it all end, should we all fall to the Plague, it is your final duty as Crusaders, nay, as Humans, to spit in the face of the Beast. To defy it until the end. To die with my name on your lips! Is that understood?!"
[20+1 vs. 1+5] They hail your name as you make your exit. It echoes up to the structural supports and shakes the amphitheater. Dust drifts down from the ceiling. You could not introduce Emma and William, that is for another day. William is smiling a wicked smile. Emma, on the other hand, looks concerned and surprised.
If she has misgivings about your manipulations, she doesn't speak out about them. You take your elevator to your quarters, passing by the workmen that clean and fix the walls. You pay them no mind as they bow their heads in devotion. A null awaits you, and you cannot tell which number it is. They all look so similar.
"I have suggestions for the position of general, as well as a plan on how to organize the civilian government." He shows you two folders, and you tuck your head to a seat nearby.
"Wait."
He bows his head respectfully as you drop down into a chair, resting your head in your hands. You hated that. It felt worse than any war, any battle you've ever fought.
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2020, 10:42:34 pm
Check the documents.
Post by: Eschar on May 01, 2020, 11:08:01 pm
You will still need to answer that eternal question, "was it worth it? was it justified?" But for now, you have time.
I am a young member of the Line. I did not have that luxury. Use it well.
You did well. There can be no courage without fear, but what in particular was so unpleasant for you?
Check the documents.
+1
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 01, 2020, 11:10:44 pm
But you must learn to put that internal conflict aside when necessary. Determine your ethics and goals, then examine your actions, then act without hesitation.
I am sorry you have to go through this. We all did and it is no better today then in the past. I would be glad if you could find another way.
Post by: Superdorf on May 01, 2020, 11:38:07 pm
My compatriots have said what needs saying. I have only to offer-- the pride, the great pride we all feel at your actions. Our honored heir.
Sol's bright child.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 02:12:59 am
You make a 'gimme' motion to the null, who stares. "Pass them over."
He does so, handing you over the documents. The first one you look at is titled plans for a living government. SEED had taken on many of the roles that are currently listed, only requiring the groups of Scholars to give reports on situations. It would then provide direction. There was no formalized process.
The system, as you look it over, is a dictatorship, plain and simple. You do note that debt-slaves have the same rights as everyone else, but that is because the rights given are little to none: no more upward mobility, no freedom to assemble or to oppose the government. You will be assigned a job within the Scholars by age thirteen, becoming an apprentice of whatever work is required.
The Scholars themselves are now divided into ministries, all of which are fairly self-explanatory. Agriculture, Industry, Guardians, Crusaders, Internal Affairs, State, Foreign Affairs, Trade/Finance, Communication, Religion and Health. The Nulls have provided a single recommendation for each from the surviving members of the Scholars who have specialized in those fields.
One catches your eye-- the Communication Ministry, where they recommend Emma as your public speaker. William, you note, has also gained a position in this hypothetical government: as the Minister of Internal Affairs.
I want a personal guard that is under none of these Ministries.
There's also a list of three potential generals. All of them scored high marks within officer school and were pruned out of a much larger list.
Spoiler: Generals (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 02:20:10 am
"Do you anticipate public dissatisfaction with the lack of rights and opportunities for upward mobility?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 02:25:32 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 02:28:15 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 02:50:16 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 02, 2020, 02:53:07 am
"Who will lead here when I am away or if I become debilitated?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 03:23:05 am
"There's only a weekly approval and direction process. The Council will not bother you with every particular detail, as that can overwhelm most people, but you can, of course, personally oversee projects."
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 03:32:50 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 02, 2020, 07:24:29 am
"Emma has shown a knack for administration and I trust her more than anyone. She will lead in my absence. However, should we both be dead or busy on the battlefield, the Council should elect an interim leader to maintain the state, such as it is."+1 I like the sound of that, the queen shall lead while the queen is out doing stuff.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 07:47:23 am
"Understood. Now, a few more questions. One, your title? Two, where do you wish to have these meetings? Three, what benefits should ministers receive? Four, what level of majesty are you expected to be treated with?"
Any other issues with the governmental organization? I guess its okay?
Post by: King Zultan on May 02, 2020, 08:07:38 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 02, 2020, 08:58:21 am
Also, would it be possible to have two generals? I vote Isela Tabbet and Eric Applegate for Generals. I’m worried we’re becoming what we were trying to fix. This is our chance to change things for the better.
“We don’t need a title. Meetings can be held in an area where everyone can hear, and provide input after the meeting. We’re all here together. We don’t need to be treated with too much majesty, just enough that people know we’re in charge, but not so much that they feel uncomfortable addressing any grievances they might have
I can’t think of the answers to the third question right now, ideas for benefits?
Post by: Eschar on May 02, 2020, 09:16:02 am
I’m worried we’re becoming what we were trying to fix.
Yeah, we don't want to end up just sitting around creating mandates. Lots of unfortunate accidents happen that way.
Post by: Superdorf on May 02, 2020, 12:29:31 pm
As to the choice of general: let us have words with Eric. If he is beyond hope, we will let Isela take the reins... but if not, he will serve well to inspire the ranks. Isela can take up another role, an advisory role.
"[Angel] will do, for a title-- Holy Mother, for an honorific. I'll not take up the ceremonies of SEED; they would be impractical for my purposes... I am to be approachable. A god of the people, an angel of mercy. I will keep an honor guard: seven squads of ten, marked with my crest; separate from the other ministries, and beholden to me alone. You will select skilled and loyal soldiers for this purpose."
"We've little in the way of benefits for our ministries at this time, but we can give of what remains to us: proper accommodations, for the ministers and their families. A modicum of access to our food and healthcare establishments, once we've got those running. A fixed salary, once we've got that running. A personal guard, ten to a minister; loyal not to the ministries, but to myself."
"As for a meeting-hall... I'm not all that familiar with the lay of this fortress. We want somewhere out of the way, with a bit of dignity about it-- where would you suggest?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 02, 2020, 12:58:48 pm
We just declared ourself a living god. When we've scoured the [plague] from this world, perhaps we can begin returning control to the people-- but for now, we have need of majesty. We have need of control. We are becoming like unto SEED, perhaps-- it is distasteful, perhaps-- but for now, it is necessary. SEED had not the luxury of free government; for the time being, neither will we.+1
As to the choice of general: let us have words with Eric. If he is beyond hope, we will let Isela take the reins... but if not, he will serve well to inspire the ranks. Isela can take up another role, an advisory role.
"[Angel] will do, for a title-- Holy Mother, for an honorific. I'll not take up the ceremonies of SEED; they would be impractical for my purposes... I am to be approachable. A god of the people, an angel of mercy. I will keep an honor guard: seven squads of ten, marked with my crest; separate from the other ministries, and beholden to me alone. You will select skilled and loyal soldiers for this purpose."
"We've little in the way of benefits for our ministries at this time, but we can give of what remains to us: proper accommodations, for the ministers and their families. A modicum of access to our food and healthcare establishments, once we've got those running. A fixed salary, once we've got that running. A personal guard, ten to a minister; loyal not to the ministries, but to myself."
"As for a meeting-hall... I'm not all that familiar with the lay of this fortress. We want somewhere out of the way, with a bit of dignity about it-- where would you suggest?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 01:27:27 pm
"I would also like you to create a ministry of technology dedicated to studying SEED's final gift to me. The ministry would also determine which technologies would be helpful and possible to produce."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 02, 2020, 01:42:53 pm
We do need some majesty. People often find that comforting.+1 to this as well
"I would also like you to create a ministry of technology dedicated to studying SEED's final gift to me. The ministry would also determine which technologies would be helpful and possible to produce."
Post by: Superdorf on May 02, 2020, 03:49:03 pm
We'll be in our armor most of the time, I expect, when we're in public: full kit, wings out, honor guard, the lot. A spectacle for the populace, a show of power... all so that, resplendent, we can return to our people the very respect we are given! All so that they can rise with us, as did Whitney Carter in the alleys of the Holy City.
This is the purpose to our majesty. In exalting ourself, we exalt our people. We give them dignity.
They'll love us for it.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 02, 2020, 05:03:58 pm
Much of our "majesty" will come naturally. We adorn ourself now with grand titles, and with armed escort... but much will come naturally. SEED relied on distance to create veneration, and on ceremony-- we won't need to! We can inspire such things simply by what we are... and that allows us a closeness to our people that SEED could never have.I hope your assessment about the people rising with us is a correct assessment. I’m worried they might see our majesty as them not having it. I want them to see themselves as with us, not lower than us
We'll be in our armor most of the time, I expect, when we're in public: full kit, wings out, honor guard, the lot. A spectacle for the populace, a show of power... all so that, resplendent, we can return to our people the very respect we are given! All so that they can rise with us, as did Whitney Carter in the alleys of the Holy City.
This is the purpose to our majesty. In exalting ourself, we exalt our people. We give them dignity.
They'll love us for it.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 02, 2020, 10:29:39 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 02, 2020, 10:41:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 11:00:09 pm
"Understood." The null scribbles you words down as you explain.
"The investigation of the info cube was going to be one of the responsibility of the Ministry of Industry." The null explains, "But if that is your wish, it will be amended."
"I will begin recruitment of the guards immediately." He nods, then continues, "There is a recreation level that will be requestioned and furnished. Level thirty five."
Finally, he withdraws another slip of paper: a requisition form. It's for a small hover-craft and fuel. Requisitioned for somebody named Cephilia Summers. It has your obviously forged signature on the bottom, and it's already been fulfilled.
"I also intercepted this. There was no flight plan filed with it."
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 11:13:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 02, 2020, 11:15:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 11:19:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 11:24:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 02, 2020, 11:26:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2020, 11:54:01 pm
"I think I'll go to bed for a little while." She murmurs, sleepily, rubbing at her eyes. She crosses over to you, planting a gentle kiss on your cheek before heading to her bedroom. You sit for a moment longer, feeling a little tired, but do not dwell on it. Instead, you rise. Mitch is waiting patiently for you, and you take the chain and secure it to his collar, heading to the elevator. You pass by a dozing William on the way out.
You flip through the recommendation folder, keying in the level code for the field hospital. After a few turns down the various pathways between beds of wounded soldiers, you come to stop just before you reach Eric's.
[4] Something probes at the edge of your awareness. But it's gone before you can truly register it.
Eric lounges in the bed, and stares at you with dull eyes as you approach. Bloody bandages wrap themselves around his torso, his legs, making the common splotches associated with las-gun ruptures. His left arm bears a stump of ugly cauterized flesh at the elbow. He must be drugged, as he doesn't seem to be able to focus on you.
"Pheobe." He croaks, weakly, looking up at you. "This means...I'm dead...I hope..."
[11] A weak field of willpower twists around him, and you pause, confused. It wrings and loops through itself, twitching feebly with his heartbeat.
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 12:02:58 am
That willpower writhing about him. Is it human, or... something more?
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 12:04:19 am
"Eric, old friend. I'm afraid not. There's still work for us among the living. Is there anything I can get for you or do for you?"
Gently probe at the willpower with our willpower.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 12:14:57 am
"Guess I'm...not so lucky." Eric gives a harsh, wracking laugh, starting to cough heavily. A medic hurries to his side, bristling with righteous indignation.
[11]"I must ask that you do-- Mother Pheonix." She stops herself from yelling at you, hesitant. "I...Major Applegate needs his rest."
"I'm fine." Eric retorts, shooting her a glare that causes her to take a step back, anger in his raspy voice. With one final look between the two of you, she turns and leaves. You pick up his chart while he drifts in and out of consciousness, his eyes finding you every time they open. You pick up his chart, flipping through the papers. Six major ruptures, muscle damages, punctured lung...self-inflicted burn on wrist...with the number of synthetic opioids they've given him, he should be dead to the world.
You almost laugh when you learn the reason why he had to do it, from a report by one of his troops....the damn Bug came out of the ground, nearly wiped the squad with a single tentacle lash. Eric grabbed it, chopped it off, then chopped off his own wrist when he noticed blood on his glove.
"I was thinking of making you Crusader General."
"I refuse."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 12:21:51 am
"Can you tell me why you aren't interested in the position?"
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 12:28:09 am
Nod. "That is your right."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 12:29:22 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 12:32:23 am
He grabs something from a tray nearby -- a bundle of many, many tags, each etched with a name, with a district of birth. They weigh down the chain, and he throws it at you weakly.
"Each of...those...died for me. No more."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 12:40:03 am
"Will you at least think it over?"
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 12:43:18 am
{Did I?}
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 12:53:23 am
[1][15] There were stories, rumors, of humans of great skill and determination beginning to rise across the Empyre. Born from the hellish battles that wracked the galaxy during the Great Plague and the Strifes that followed. Strong enough to threaten an Ascended in contests of will and physical strength. Many speculated that they simply had physical cybernetic augmentations that allowed them those strengths, or were a more coherent offshoot of the Plague...now, you're not so sure.
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 01:06:52 am
Speak soft. "I understand. I understand. You've given-- more than enough."
"Rest. Heal. You'll have your chance to fight soon enough, if you want it."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 01:09:14 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 01:18:52 am
His will is motile. That doesn't happen without tech.
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 01:25:13 am
"Yes... you have given so much already. There may simply be nothing left within you. I would understand if you need time to rest, but I would also be confused. That isn't the Eric that I knew and admired."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 01:31:13 am
You sigh heavily, rubbing at your face at the non-answer. You pick up the chain of names and set them on the tray beside him before you make your exit. Silas hasn't reported anything yet about the plague...that may come when the Thornton evacuation is finished. Maybe you could send a Crusader to fetch him, to help explain this oddness.
You head to the elevator, taking a trip down in the Crusader living quarters. You navigate down the long hallways and past children playing with one another as their parents look on. You come to a stop at her door, giving it a knock.
"Come in!" A voice calls, and you open it step inside. A very young, tan-skinned, brown-haired woman sits inside. She looks younger than you. Isela is reading a book at a table carved from or formed from the wall. Piles of paperwork set in front of her -- she starts when she sees you, dropping the book down and bowing at the hips. "Mothe- Mother Pheonix. I apologize for my rudeness."
"At ease. I came to speak to you. May I sit?" You gesture to the only other chair. She nods her head and reclaims her own seat.
"What do I owe this pleasure to?" Isela questions, looking across at you.
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 01:39:40 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 01:45:53 am
"Your potential has caught my eye and I'd like to get to know you. Can you tell me about yourself?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 01:53:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 02:04:22 am
"Would you agree with that assessment?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 02:11:30 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 02:14:57 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 02:30:39 am
"I am asking for your input, dear. Please speak freely, whether you agree or not."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 02:35:31 am
"Let me put it this way: I think it always had the strength to break through the defensive line. It was bleeding us of manpower and economic ability by letting us throw our soldiers at it." She pauses, reaching down to grab a bottle and pour out alcohol for both of you into neat, elegant ceramic cups, covered with designs of what you assume are the outlands -- salt marshes and dusty lands. "It hit the hydrogen plant-- why didn't it do that everywhere? Unless it was testing our internal defenses. It knew we would respond with all the strength we could -- and we did."
She takes a gulp of hers, starting to get into a flow with her lecture. "It was testing when was the best time to break through the Line -- the best time for the Holy City to be weak enough to be seized. Fortifications like the Holy City are force amplifiers, if we held up with all the resources we wasted on the line there, it wouldn't have been able to break through for -years-. We lasted five months trying to protect everything. The lands around it would've been destroyed, but the city was its primary objective. We could have used sorties and hit and run tactics to whittle down the enemy forces while keeping our primary industrial base intact."
"Instead, we over-extended ourselves, just like it hoped we would. It created a foe that you had to fight to stall you. Then, it broke the line like a twig. We didn't have the forces to hold the Holy City, and it broke through our defenses because we focused on the Line."
"So, now that the city has fallen, and we are weak -- what will it expect us to do? Go on the defensive. Hold what we can -- restock, replenish our troops while it rips away at our territory. If we do that, the war is already lost -- it made us incapable of offensive attacks.. What will it not expect us to do?" She pulls out the file -- its the one filled with pictures of the Western Outlands, "It won't expect us to attack its 'infrastructure'. To go on the offense with heavy surgical strikes."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 02:41:25 am
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 03, 2020, 02:50:03 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 02:57:35 am
put into better words than ever I had.
We need this.
Grin. "Well spoken indeed."
"I'll be blunt, Child Tabbett: my councilors tell me you're a genius. A budding tactician, such as is hardly seen in a century. After that little lecture, I'm inclined to believe them."
"I'm in need of a general-- someone bright and fresh, not tied to old institutions and old tactics-- and as it so happens, you fit the bill perfectly. How about it?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 03:05:25 am
Isela hesitates, taking another sip of the vodka from her cup, "Forgive me. I started rambling, Pheo-- Mother Pheonix."
You grin at her, taking a sip of the harsh, cheap liquor before you make your offer. "I'll be blunt, Child Tabbett: my councilors tell me you're a genius. A budding tactician, such as is hardly seen in a century. After that little lecture, I'm inclined to believe them."
She blushes, rubbing at her tanned face and looking into her cup. "I-- yes, thank you."
"I'm in need of a general-- someone bright and fresh, not tied to old institutions and old tactics-- and as it so happens, you fit the bill perfectly. How about it?"
Isela doesn't hesitate, doesn't fret or act as if she even needs to consider the decision. Her eyes light up, and there's a giddiness to her voice. She's genuinely excited by the offer, "Yes. God-- SEE-- yes, I mean. I will accept that role, if you really wish it, Mother Pheonix. I...I know I'm young, but I will do my best! I mean, if you want me to."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 03:13:56 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 03:27:15 am
Besides, we've already extended our offer!
"I really do." Smile. "I'll make the necessary arrangements."
"A curiosity, Child Tabbet, before I take my leave. Speak freely once again: what is your mind on the question of SEED's divinity?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 03:29:38 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 03:37:33 am
My choice stands. This girl knows what she's about.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 03:57:18 am
[14] Isela hesitates, "I do not think SEED was a god or the divine. I don't know what it was. But...there's too many odd details about it. It has too many weaknesses, too many flaws. I do not know. My pa' taught me to doubt, to question everything. Why would SEED need to destroy itself if its this omnipotent being? How could it be deceived by General Hardy if it knew everything?"
"So, to answer your question, I do not know what it is." Isela finally admits, "But the gods I grew up with were far different. Outlanders teach their children that the gods were created by the people that worship them, to answer questions we cannot know the answers to. SEED seems like that type of question."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 03, 2020, 04:00:33 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 03, 2020, 07:53:44 am
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2020, 09:09:14 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 09:35:52 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 03, 2020, 10:37:09 am
((After a certain point, your translator no longer interrupts the flow of speech to explain the meaning of the word, and selects the first closest translation.I'm a bit of a lazybones when it comes to remembering every single word I've ever bracketed. To be honest, I should probably keep a list or make a macro. If it is an issue, I will go back and fix the said mistake, but I also think not doing every time makes the reading experience easier at the cost of immersion. Let me know what you think?))((I think our translator learning over time makes sense))
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2020, 12:24:00 pm
((After a certain point, your translator no longer interrupts the flow of speech to explain the meaning of the word, and selects the first closest translation.I'm a bit of a lazybones when it comes to remembering every single word I've ever bracketed. To be honest, I should probably keep a list or make a macro. If it is an issue, I will go back and fix the said mistake, but I also think not doing every time makes the reading experience easier at the cost of immersion. Let me know what you think?))((I think our translator learning over time makes sense))
(((Aye. It's not a problem at all, I was just curious. Notation interests me.)))
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 01:10:56 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 01:21:38 pm
Nod. "A wise man, your father."
"I spoke with SEED three times, as this war progressed. It was old-- powerful. It gave rise to many of this world's people, and it loved them after its fashion... even unto death. But it was not divine."
"What of myself, Child Tabbett? Am I the god I claim to be?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 01:25:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 02:04:08 pm
Isela is young. and we've offered her a tremendous opportunity. She will be beholden to us.
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 02:08:45 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2020, 02:52:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 03:33:32 pm
You are not a god. You're a question to be answered."
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2020, 03:53:47 pm
She did not listen to fear or misplaced respect, and did not stoop to flattery.
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 04:20:50 pm
"Well answered."
+1
"Keep that question to yourself, for the time being-- as things stand, my people have need of a god. I give them a cause, that one day they may stand without me."
"We'll speak further on that matter soon, perhaps... for now, I must be off to prepare your induction." Smile. "Until then, Child Tabbett."
Take our leave, and find one of our nulls. It's time to make known our choice of general.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 05:47:26 pm
Locating a null is as simple as going to Zero's office. You inform him of your decision. He nods, scribbling a note. "We will announce it under your name. She might have difficulties settling in, due to her age and inexperience, but she was the best long term, mathematical choice. Interesting woman. She doesn't find my kind inherently repulsive, as others do."
You cannot say the same.
"Unless you wish to gather the Officers and make the choice known yourself. She might have to make a display of power to keep them under thumb."
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 06:12:41 pm
"What is your assessment of Mother Nicole for the position?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 03, 2020, 07:00:42 pm
"I do think it's best to make absolutely clear that I have mandated her position, so I will make the announcement myself. I'd rather avoid... problems."Yes to the announcing it ourselves. Nicole will not get the position"What is your assessment of Mother Nicole for the position?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 07:06:06 pm
Nicole is experienced politically and militarily, and she is bound to us as a member of our family. She is well known and would be able to command respect from others, without which we would have serious logistical problems, regardless of the general's technical skill.
In addiiton, I wouldn't be surprised if Nicole's technical skills were greater than those of Isela, as Nicole vanquished the plague before and probably knows it better than any living Crusader.
Post by: Superdorf on May 03, 2020, 07:31:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 03, 2020, 08:01:09 pm
...I'm willing to ask the null-child's opinion on the matter if Phoenix is. Not so much because I think setting up Nicole as general's a good idea, as because I'm curious why she wasn't on the list given us in first place.She wasn’t on the list because she is willing to contain us, she isn’t loyal to us, she will turn on us the first opportunity she gets. She was willing to hold Emma hostage
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 08:03:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 03, 2020, 08:05:41 pm
So you're fine that Cephie tried to kill us multiple times, at one point even grasping our beating heart and threatening to rip it out, but because Nicole was loyal to SEED, the head of state, she's disqualified? Who do you think the head of state is now?Good points
Learning why Nicole wasn’t on the list does seem like a good idea, maybe she was killed during the siege
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2020, 08:19:26 pm
So you're fine that Cephie tried to kill us multiple times, at one point even grasping our beating heart and threatening to rip it out, but because Nicole was loyal to SEED, the head of state, she's disqualified? Who do you think the head of state is now?
We defeated Cephie. She is subservient to us for now per Empyreal tradition. Nicole has no such bond to us. We may be head of state but we have no guarantee that Nicole will follow this head of state as loyally as she followed SEED - on the contrary, we may be seen as a usurper!
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 08:25:58 pm
In general, people follow patterns rather than doing bizarre actions disconnected from their past behavior, so I don't see why Nicole would be any different.
Is Isela bound to us by oath? Maybe she'll start acting strangely and overthrow the government!
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 03, 2020, 09:29:42 pm
We will likely take a prominent position in any attacks so we can help guide her for the first bit of time, as much as we can.
I am imagining a strike on the factories, breeding pits or algae pools would be most devastating, the plague seems to use up a lot of energy.
Maybe two strikes, one backed by war machines on an outer target with us and a aircraft strike force hitting something else.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 03, 2020, 10:26:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2020, 11:30:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2020, 11:57:57 pm
Zero pauses in his monotone diatribe. "You had a distrust of the Old Crusader Guard as well -- Hardy received his recommendation for General from her. The latest Pontifex had the same, and his election had it's share of scandal. She was always innocent within the reach of the Law. But courts were a farce when she trained each of the judges herself."
"If you wish, I can prepare a dossier for her."
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 12:01:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 04, 2020, 12:06:48 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 12:08:51 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 04, 2020, 12:22:27 am
"Positive. If she is dangerous, I would like to know even more greatly."
+1
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 12:31:42 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 04, 2020, 05:04:27 am
This woman was the old institution, wasn't she?+1 Knowledge is power."Positive. If she is dangerous, I would like to know even more greatly."
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 04, 2020, 08:55:06 am
+1 The more we know, the betterThis woman was the old institution, wasn't she?+1 Knowledge is power."Positive. If she is dangerous, I would like to know even more greatly."
+1
Isela is the general, yes? We need to begin planning for and executing a strike against the plague, it;s energy sources, food, Breeding, buildings
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 04, 2020, 10:13:21 am
Spoiler: SEED's Special Services Dossier on Nicole Gainer, AKA Black Nicky (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 02:52:30 pm
"Did the Pontifex, Xavier Mack, and Tyler Hop survive the destruction of the Holy City?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 04, 2020, 06:51:28 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 08:34:25 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 04, 2020, 09:19:30 pm
Her dealings with the Pontifex, I was not expecting. I can't help but wonder... how much did she know of his plans towards SEED? Was she playing us from both sides?
Regardless... no summons, for now. Definitely no promotion.
"...Thank you."
"Did the Pontifex, Xavier Mack, and Tyler Hop survive the destruction of the Holy City?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 04, 2020, 09:48:33 pm
"His daughter, Lauren Mack, is our selection for Guardian Minister. She's not the most experienced member of the remaining force -- but all of them threatened to resign if she was not given the title." Zero looks over a paper, continuing, "So, for the sake of balance and to discourage that line of thinking, we made William Thornton the Internal Affairs Minister. A good compromise."
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 10:32:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 04, 2020, 11:30:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 04, 2020, 11:52:56 pm
You nod, asking for the channel, then return to your quarters to find Lucille. It takes a few minutes to activate her, but the needles dig into your flesh, into your bone, and her voice quietly chimes to life within your head.
[Goodmorning Pheobe. How may I be of service today?]
You inform her to beginning listening to the agreed-upon radio channel.
[Affirmative. Beginning to monitor.]
You take hold of MItch's chain and head down to one of unoccupied storage levels, taking him for a jog through the empty hallways, pass open cryogenic containment units, and storage centers. You pass by a few laborers, but they do not bother you, giving you a polite bow of their heads while they continue their many tasks. Eventually, Lucille speaks -- its, not a direct connection, you note, but rather Lucille repeating the words spoken. It's a little odd.
["We are ready for you now, Pheonix."] Breathing out a quick sigh of exertion, you deposit Mitch in your quarters, shrugging on one of Emma's coats and leaving for the amphitheater. As you pass by, hidden in the gantries built into the structure, you look down at the crowd. It is far less packed than before. Filled only with Crusader Officers and their closest subordinates, you note. Many are wounded, leaning on their comrades. They all look young.
Nobody waits backstage for you.
Who are we selecting?
Post by: ZBridges on May 04, 2020, 11:56:26 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 05, 2020, 12:06:51 am
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 05, 2020, 12:12:11 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 05, 2020, 12:46:59 am
But we do not have time.
You will have to provide the personality and power while she provides strategy.
Choose Isela Tabbett, for now.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 05, 2020, 01:22:28 am
You wait for it to die down, keeping a stern expression on your face while you wait patiently.
"Today, with the unfornate incident surrounding General Hardy--" The cried of 'traitor and 'heretic' are shouted by the bold. "I will be announcing the ascendence of Crusader General Isela Tabbet."
[3] Silence meets your announcement. Murmurs begin when Isela mounts the stage, looking out over the crowd. She's silent as she dips a bow to you.
"Thank you for your grace of wisdom, Mother Pheonix. I will serve the Crusaders with all I can."
"She's young enough to be my daughter." Somebody calls, and Isela rises stiffly, looking out over the crowd as somebody laughs at the jeer.
[18] "If you have a problem, I insist we address it now." Isela calls gently, and the jeering officer grins, rising to the challenge. He mounts the stage with the two of you, and you watch patiently as he approaches Isela.
[17 vs. 13] She steps closer to the middle aged officer, putting a gentle hand on his hip while wearing a cute, innocent smile. He begins to say something-- until Isela twists, taking hold of him and smashing his face into the stage.
[9 vs. 6] Isela steps on to him-- and he groans, but knows better than to rise. "As Officer Jacoby," she grinds her booted foot into the small of his back, "So elegantly stated, I am young. So let's clear the air, and figure out where we stand." Her boot twists. "I am sixteen years of age. I am inexperienced in combat. I am an Outlander's spawn. And yet Pheonix selected me to lead you. So grow the fuck up and keep your remarks to yourself. I don't expect you to like me -- I expect what every general has ever expected. Follow my orders, respect me to my face and in front of others and die holding the line. Do I make myself clear!?"
[20 vs. 2] "Yes General Tabbet!" The crowd calls back, obviously impressed, sounding off as one.
"Beautiful. Officer Jacoby, we're going to say we were sparring -- otherwise I'd have to knock you down to apprentice for your insubordination."
"Yes, General Tabbet."
"Good boy. Up you go-- there we are."
Post by: ZBridges on May 05, 2020, 01:25:55 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 05, 2020, 02:39:51 am
"Holy Crusaders-- your general! She is an extension now of my own will, and she will be treated as such! She will bring you victory in my name!"
End this assembly on a high note, and remove ourself to the gantries.
...allow ourself a grin. "Beautiful indeed, General Tabbett. I can force my officers to subservience in your name, but their respect-- that, you had to earn. You made quite the step today towards that end."
Post by: ZBridges on May 05, 2020, 02:40:50 am
An Outlander's daughter! They raise these ones tough.+1
"Holy Crusaders-- your general! She is an extension now of my own will, and she will be treated as such! She will bring you victory in my name!"
End this assembly on a high note, and remove ourself to the gantries.
...allow ourself a grin. "Beautiful indeed, General Tabbett. I can force my officers to subservience in your name, but their respect-- that, you had to earn. You made quite the step today towards that end."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 05, 2020, 03:24:22 am
+1An Outlander's daughter! They raise these ones tough.+1
"Holy Crusaders-- your general! She is an extension now of my own will, and she will be treated as such! She will bring you victory in my name!"
End this assembly on a high note, and remove ourself to the gantries.
...allow ourself a grin. "Beautiful indeed, General Tabbett. I can force my officers to subservience in your name, but their respect-- that, you had to earn. You made quite the step today towards that end."
I wonder what's the next thing we have to deal with.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 05, 2020, 04:42:02 am
"It only worked because he was dumb enough to challenge me." Isela admits with a heavy sigh, slouching down. "I'll have to promote him or something to make up for the embarrassment. I had one of my mentor's friends ready to do the same thing...but I guess she just hoped for the same outcome."
"Pheonix? I would like to ask a boon. I want to make Eric Applegate the Thirteenth Crusader, and grant him a high rank without any troops. Enough of one to be my muscle and face among the Officers."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 05, 2020, 06:28:35 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 05, 2020, 09:17:05 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 05, 2020, 09:49:49 am
I believe he wanted to fight on the front lines so I'm not sure he'd except the position of body guard, we should ask before we shove him into the position.yes, we should ask him first’
Post by: Superdorf on May 05, 2020, 11:10:32 am
Sigh, explain: "Eric sustained severe physical and mental damage on the Line before it fell. It will be some time before he recovers, if he recovers at all."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 05, 2020, 11:27:41 am
With another puff of her cheeks, she leans against the gantries, watching as the amphitheater starts being used by a number of children under the eye of watchful guardians and Guardians. "How soon do you want to make the first move, Mother Pheonix?"
Post by: Superdorf on May 05, 2020, 01:38:53 pm
Let's take this one and pay Zero a visit, hm? We need a new map, and a better idea of what resources we can field in combat right now.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 05, 2020, 02:06:52 pm
"As soon as possible. The [plague] is loose-- the longer we wait, the longer we risk one of our remaining Industrial Districts falling to its power. If it gets hold of that kind of infrastructure... things could get very bad, very fast."+1 we need to attack
Let's take this one and pay Zero a visit, hm? We need a new map, and a better idea of what resources we can field in combat right now.
Post by: ZBridges on May 05, 2020, 02:13:27 pm
+1"As soon as possible. The [plague] is loose-- the longer we wait, the longer we risk one of our remaining Industrial Districts falling to its power. If it gets hold of that kind of infrastructure... things could get very bad, very fast."+1 we need to attack
Let's take this one and pay Zero a visit, hm? We need a new map, and a better idea of what resources we can field in combat right now.
We do need to attack, and we should seriously consider trusting our general and making Eric the Thirteenth Crusader, even if he is not capable of assuming his duties immediately. Some people, especially those who think they are incapable, do better when thrust into these sorts of positions.
Post by: Superdorf on May 05, 2020, 02:27:25 pm
I suspect Eric's healing much faster than baseline. We may not have long to wait.
Post by: Eschar on May 05, 2020, 02:45:13 pm
I suspect Eric's healing much faster than baseline
:-)
Post by: ZBridges on May 05, 2020, 03:06:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 05, 2020, 11:57:29 pm
"I'm hoping to know what resources we have available."
"Ah. There's an error there -- we still haven't collected enough data. We are still taking count of fuel reserves, weaponry, armor, artillery. So on." Zero explains placidly, looking over at Isela as he speaks, "Its been rather difficult without a general, as the officer corps are difficult to work with on the best of days. We're also still unloading the crafts. I can give you a rough estimate, of course, judging by our current numbers within the fortress city."
You nod, and he launches into a spiel.
"As of our last count of the wounded and injured, we have one hundred, ninety-three thousand, two hundred and thirteen active Crusaders, roughly one-fifth of our total population here. Furthermore, we have fifty-four thousand, one hundred and seventy-two injured Crusaders who are posted to light-duty -- manning the anti-aircraft capabilities that this base posses, organizing the refugees, distributing food, assisting scholars-- so on."
"The Military Doctrine of SEED has always been to make sure that everyone has a sidearm, a rifle, and a knife, with officers and higher-ranking members of the Crusaders possessing Cutter Blades. Our reserve forces, for the most part, are relying on their pistols and are under armored, while all the Active Duty Crusaders are in possession of a full kit."
"We have a large number of hovercraft currently docking in the fortress. We have seventy-three Mark 1 Hornets, which can carry a squad of ten or be outfitted with more weaponry. We have thirty-one Mark 1 Personnel carriers, each capable of carrying one platoon of fifty troops. Sixteen Mark 1 Minor Cargo Ships, which, without modification, can carry roughly four platoons or six thousand tons of cargo. And we have nine Mark 1 Major Cargo Ships, which we have uncomfortably managed to fit fifty-five thousand individuals on in cramped, horrible conditions during the evacuation. As per the Technology Cube, they have a max tonnage of one hundred thousand."
"We're still trying to get an exact count on our fuel supplies, as of today, as our primary priority was evacuation. Suffice to say, by my estimates of not seeing many fuel canisters on the ships, we don't have a lot. Especially since the Thornton evacuation is currently underway."
"Currently the Fortress does not possess any other industry besides the production of foodstuffs; rations. There are a number of available levels, but we would need to secure resources to build any industries on those levels. We still possess the digging and building equipment left over from before, but it too is in need of repairs."
The lead null takes a deep breath, before finally removing a curled up square of heavy-duty paper from the drawer. "And this is our latest map, courtesy of our scouts. The red dot is us."
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:01:17 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 12:30:27 am
"General, based on this information, can you devise a counteroffensive to degrade and debilitate the enemy?"
+1
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 06, 2020, 12:36:47 am
I thought Zero said our latest mop at first. Ah the little things.
Anyway we should tell her about the structures and items we saw on our scouting of the plague lands and our estimates of what the things are.
We should also see if there are fuel refinery capabilities in any of the remaining areas or other SEED stockpiles we can access, though I guess Zero would have told us already.
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:39:26 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 12:43:06 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:45:00 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 12:49:38 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:54:36 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 12:55:54 am
...to produce enough fuel for extended operations of literally more than a hundred hovercrafts...? Some of which require metric tons of the stuff to operate? I'll clear out my schedule. It's possible, but I'll be working at it all day and only make a dent in the operation costs.
Iseala sits, looking at the map, and at the listing of troops and craft under her control. "How do you feel about a field trip, Pheonix?"
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 06, 2020, 12:59:57 am
Three states after sitting quietly for a few minutes. "We would also have to begin rationing water and electricity."
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 01:24:44 am
"I'll go where I'm needed. What have you in mind?"
The young General addresses you without honorific! Mark that well, Phoenix-of-Sol: she grows familiar with your presence.
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 01:28:20 am
It is an amusing idea... but impractical. We are of more use elsewhere, I should think.+1
"I'll go where I'm needed. What have you in mind?"
The young General addresses you without honorific! Mark that well, Phoenix-of-Sol: she grows familiar with your presence.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 02:16:49 am
"First thing I would recommend we do -- send soldiers to seize and fortify Steelworks four and five. An entire corps split between the two provinces should be enough to lay claim to them. We can ransack their fuel supplies as well. They'll probably have minor refineries that we can use to create a supply line for food, but we won't be able to pull them back out if our fuel situation doesn't drastically improve."
Isela pauses for a moment.
"Meanwhile, you head to the former hydrogen district with a few of the smaller cargo carriers and a few platoons -- most of the stuff SEED produced is modular, so we might be able to get a few more refineries going. The Plague may also be in that area for the same reason."
"That is my recommendation as General, Pheonix, for our first moves."
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 02:20:31 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 03:09:52 am
Perhaps we'd best speak with the Thornton siblings on the matter. Find out how they want to go about this.
Nod. "Good start. Give the orders to claim those steelworks, and arrange a force to move out tomorrow morning under my command."
Now... when was the last time we properly slept? We may need to go do like our Thornton kin and nap awhile.
((irrelavant to everything else, but:))
Spoiler: stars of sol (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 03:20:01 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 07:25:56 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 06, 2020, 07:30:45 am
+1 To the plan.
Post by: Eschar on May 06, 2020, 08:12:33 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 11:08:20 am
On a whim, you describe fossil fuels and natural gas to the lead null. The man looks confused until you describe how it is formed.
"Unfortunately, this planet did not have a surface biosphere before SEED's arrival. The only native life is within the oceans, which we do not have access to at this time." He explains after considering the situation for a few silent minutes.
You sigh, before turning your attention back to Isela, who waits tensely for your approval. You make a show of looking over the map, of considering her strategy, before you give her an approving nod. She rises from the desk with a bow, heading out the office -- no doubt to muster her soldiers and plan the invasion proper. The null carefully rolls the map up for you, extending it out. You stick it into your coat and take your leave. Your empty bed awaits you in your quarters, and you drop into it.
[16][13] A dreamless sleep takes you.
[-] The bed is still empty when you awaken, rubbing at your face. The world outside the glass is lit by starlight, and you sit up to let your gaze drift over the landscape laid out before you. Snow falls over the jagged hills of the rim mountains. No one has bothered your sleep, so you rise, drifting into the showers to lounge under the lukewarm water as it sprinkles down from the showerhead. You dry off and get dressed, sitting on your bed once more to look out over the windswept canyons.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 11:13:30 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 11:39:56 am
Go grab a bunch of nutrient cubes.let’s only take what we need, food is limited
We should do something to help, maybe by assisting with building things, we need to do something of use
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 11:54:53 am
Quote
Water rationing hasn't occurred yet, the population is low enough that there's plentiful food, water, and light currently, as the structure was designed for many more inhabitants.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 06, 2020, 12:23:44 pm
Go grab a bunch of nutrient cubes.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 12:25:01 pm
[3] Your assistance is unnecessary, and when they realize who you are, seems to hinder more than help. They start performing the work as precisely as possible, out of fear of reprimand, and after an hour or so of their mumbled apologies, you take your leave. There isn't much to -do-.
[5] The Crusaders are all resting, the ships loaded with the supplies they need for their extended operations. An officer makes a few last-minute checks on the various supplies and weapons -- but the soldiers are all sleeping. Dead to world. Nabbing a few hours of respite, sure they will have difficulty getting rest when they are operating.
With nothing better to do, you decide to check on Eric. Only to find that his medical bed is empty. An exhausted medic looks at you, then refers you to a recreational floor. Surprised, you head up, finding Eric is the only one awake. His chest is still covered in bloodied bandages, but he sits beneath a set of weights, exercising despite his unhealed wounds.
"Pheobe. Or do you want me to call you Pheonix?" He questions, with a rasp, exhaling a heavy, pained sigh through his gritted teeth as he completes another rep. "Or Alphira? Or Mother?"
[7] He's not pleased to see you, and for a moment, you consider leaving. Perhaps its the boredom, or guilt, but you stand there, facing his scorn.
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:30:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 12:36:11 pm
You can see the realization in his eyes as he turns to face you, face pale.
"Hey. Pheobe. Can I ask a favor? Can you tell the Medics that I will be fine and get them to clear me for duty?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:39:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 12:41:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 12:42:53 pm
We can try healing him, we have Healing Factor-1. We've never successfully healed someone other than ourself, and one time when we tried to heal another we only made the injuries worse.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 12:57:23 pm
[19] With the weight turned to you, you take note of the mass he was lifting. [Five hundred pounds]. He turns his intact back to you as he paces, and a quotation unbidden comes to you, "Scars on the back are a swordsman's shame--" you pause, frowning, "Or maybe it should be a 'soldier's shame'."
[19] Eric lifts his brow, confused. Then his shoulders slump, "I always wanted to be better than you, you know that? I knew you snuck out in the mornings to train with Hop. I knew that you held back on your daily physical exercises. I wanted to beat you regardless -- but how could I beat God? How could I ever succeed against someone like you." With a grunt of exertion, he picks up the weight set, flesh blood darkening his bandages.
[13][16 vs 15] With another pained breath, he steps closer under the weight and tosses it to you-- you catch it easily. "The most I've ever lifted is [six hundred pounds], on a dare, when I was drunk. But I bet you can lift three times that much. How do I compete with that, Pheobe?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 01:02:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 01:08:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 01:20:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 01:22:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 01:26:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 01:34:27 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 01:39:09 pm
I think he needs this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 01:43:50 pm
"If you promise not to exert yourself unnecessarily, if you agree to be the Thirteenth Crusader, and if you promise to report to the Crusader General afterwards and do whatever she says, then... yes, you can join the operation tomorrow in a support role."yes
I think he needs this.
Get the medics to waiver Eric’s leave of health
If he can lift 500 to 600 pounds, he’s probably ready, not to mention he’s walking and moving now. He seems to be healing fast
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 02:01:06 pm
His creed was this, Phoenix-of-Sol:
he was of two natures.
He was God and man.
He was human-- and he was divine.
A paradox. A triumph.
A savior.
ΙΗΣΟΥΣ - ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ - ΝΙΚΑ
...
...such is the way of a Messiah.
Are you human, Phoenix-of-Sol?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 02:12:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 02:17:15 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 02:25:48 pm
[15] He tries to drag himself forward with his hands instead -- and you send a radio message to a null to send a medic up as he eventually gives in to another violent coughing fit. Blood saturates his bandages, dripping to the ground below as his wounds are aggravated.
"I-I can do it. I can...I can do it." He murmurs through his gritted teeth, staring forward with manic intensity.
[11] "In your current state you're liable to get others killed when they try and save you, Eric." You pronounce, gently, breathing out a sigh as you watch him curl in on himself in pain and in shame.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 02:29:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 03:04:11 pm
Your cohesion improved just now. You're recovering. I am pleased.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 06, 2020, 03:35:46 pm
You kneel down, hefting Eric up even as he grumbles and protests. A medic arrives, too late to assist, but she tries her best. After you deposit Eric into his bed to suffer their tender mercies, you wipe the blood from your coat, watching as they change his bandages. As an aside, you question one of them about how long it will take him to heal.
"A few months, at the least. I don't think he'll have to worry much about physical therapy, but its a concern, to be sure."
With a nod, you leave them to their work, stretching yourself out and returning to your quarters.
You have four hours before the beginning of your mission. How would you like to spend your time?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 03:38:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 03:40:39 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 06, 2020, 04:14:32 pm
If possible at this hour and practical, send a message to Steelworks 9 requesting that they swear fealty to Phoenix-of-Sol and ask for information on their manufacturing capacity.+1
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 05:05:22 pm
Let’s train Inferno and Silicon Manipulation somewhere open so we don’t damage things
It'd be useful to get a little silicon manipulation in, if we've nothing more pressing... I think we're alright for Inferno though. That's something best trained on the field.
If possible at this hour and practical, send a message to Steelworks 9 requesting that they swear fealty to Phoenix-of-Sol and ask for information on their manufacturing capacity.
Do we wish to make the name of our Line known to our people at this time? If we're ready for that, so be it-- but it's not a thing to simply drop in passing.
Other than that, +1
One last thing: we should try and check in with Emma at some point. We're leaving the fortress come morning-- she'll want a word in the matter.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 05:11:14 pm
Did I get this right?
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 05:12:05 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 05:16:17 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 05:20:56 pm
Something like that, aye. Not necessarily in that order.Which order do you suggest? I placed them in an order, here are the other orders we could do them in, SM=Silicon Manipulation, Emma=tell Emma what we’re doing, Steelworks 9=ask Steelworks 9 for manufacturing assistance
Train SM, Emma, Steelworks 9
Emma, Steelworks 9, Train SM
Emma, Train SM, Steelworks 9
Steelworks 9, Train SM, Emma
Steelworks 9, Emma, Train SM
Would training use up the nanofeasts?nanofeasts?
Post by: Superdorf on May 06, 2020, 05:21:31 pm
Would training use up the nanofeasts?
Hm, I suppose it would at that...
Post by: ZBridges on May 06, 2020, 05:24:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 06, 2020, 05:25:13 pm
It might be worth saving them for the operation, but I don't feel strongly about it.let’s save nano feasts for the operation
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 06, 2020, 05:51:03 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 06, 2020, 06:16:48 pm
Would the lyal faker whatever her name was again have more of these nanofeasts?
Cephie. She gave no information about her supply, but I'm guessing she wouldn't just bring two with her.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 01:16:12 am
["Have you seen Emma Thornton?"] You question.
["William and her went to retrieve their people."] Comes the monotonous reply.
["Ah. Thank you. Could you give her a message when she returns? Just tell her where I went and what I'm doing there."]
["Affirmative."]
["Send a message to Nicole Gainer at Steelworks Number Nine, as well --"] You describe the contents of the message to her, how to send it, and so on, ["--make sure it's a full squad of Crusaders."]
["Affirmative, Pheonix."] And with that the conversation ends. You slump back into bed, frowning to yourself.
Efficient lot. Emma didn't say goodbye. Maybe I was sleeping when she did...
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 01:29:04 am
You'd best check and see if she brought the Barker with her. We may have to take it along ourself, if not... t'would not do to leave Mitch unattended for however long we'll be away.
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 07, 2020, 01:39:01 am
I would recommend duplicating that fire hand claw. Concentrating the full power of the inferno into a small area, gathering it for a piercing blast or close range hit. With enough focus you might be able to split a demon in two from melee range with the true heat of a star.
Post by: ZBridges on May 07, 2020, 02:07:10 am
[Lucille, how is the Empyreal Network broadcasted?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 04:36:27 am
[Through the Gate Relay systems. It reaches all Empyreal Transponders within the system.]
Post by: King Zultan on May 07, 2020, 09:30:53 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 09:57:04 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 07, 2020, 11:37:38 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 12:18:57 pm
[The Last War of Reclamation ended roughly ten thousand years ago, and it was followed by the period known as 'Pax Emypreal' or 'The Unification of Time', which came to an end with the advent of the Galactic Plague, four thousand years ago.]
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 01:14:36 pm
Spoiler: gm questions (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 01:25:11 pm
I honestly use a random world generator for most things, then fill in the world as you explore it. I usually try to be as realistic as possible, but rule of cool also wins out. <.<
The only hard and fast rule? No sentient aliens. Alien-like humans, based on principles of hard sci-fi or principles of genetic modification based on cultural norms over thousands of years are acceptable. All alien lifeforms that are not sentient are at the levels of plants, simplistic animals, and insects. No races of mysterious and powerful aliens.
Just humanity -- forever alone in the galaxy.
If you have questions, feel free to pm them! I will answer to the best of my ability.
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 01:30:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 01:44:19 pm
<.<
There was this old game I used to read on these forums called YAK, and the first one had it that everyone made up a region and the gm included it in the game. I think that type of stuff was super cool. <.<
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 01:49:50 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 07, 2020, 02:00:01 pm
"[Zero, can you please ask the appropriate ministry to prepare a report on what conditions are required to issue coinage and reinstate an economy?]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 02:08:28 pm
["This is Five. Zero is currently in his rest cycle -- the Ministry of Trade and Finance will have such a report ready by the time the Ministries Convene by next week."] The dull, monotone voice recalls.
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 02:11:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 02:27:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 07, 2020, 02:30:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 02:33:08 pm
I was worried for a moment that I'd made Constantine the weirdly obsessive scholar of some random Rim world! That was gonna take some explaining. :-X
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 07, 2020, 02:42:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 07, 2020, 03:22:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 04:11:37 pm
We could exercise. We could practice with silicon awhile, or see about summoning that burning arm of ours. We could take the time to redesign our panoply, shift its colors to something more suited to our new individuality. There are many ways to be in motion.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 07, 2020, 04:13:10 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 07, 2020, 08:29:48 pm
Maybe seek out that mad scientist we gave demonic nano technology to?
Post by: ZBridges on May 07, 2020, 09:30:36 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 07, 2020, 10:24:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 11:03:08 pm
- ZBridges' guy "bridged" hostile factions.
- I ruled a world of hardy mining folk-- "dorfs" in all but name.
- King Zultan got a renegade god-king.
- Naturegirl got "the Woman of Nature".
- VoidSlayer got... the Void Slayer.
Seems Egar tried to fit us with personae to match our usernames (and in-game personalities), when possible. Fun little touch, no? :D
On that note... I needed some pixel time.
Spoiler: ancestors, mk. ii (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: red star (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 07, 2020, 11:21:32 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 07, 2020, 11:28:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 12:10:30 am
Post by: Eschar on May 08, 2020, 12:19:30 am
VoidSlayer's not the only one.
- ZBridges' guy "bridged" hostile factions.
- I ruled a world of hardy mining folk-- "dorfs" in all but name.
- King Zultan got a renegade god-king.
- Naturegirl got "the Woman of Nature".
- VoidSlayer got... the Void Slayer.
Seems Egar tried to fit us with personae to match our usernames (and in-game personalities), when possible. Fun little touch, no? :D
On that note... I needed some pixel time.Spoiler: ancestors, mk. ii (click to show/hide)Spoiler: red star (click to show/hide)
Got it. I was aware of the backstory thing, I was just wondering what was up with VoidSlayer and the Void Slayer.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 01:06:28 am
You take the lift down to the lowest level, stretching as you wait patiently for the elevator to come to a stop. You step out into the empty room, switching on the lights as you survey the dull brown and gray interior.
[3][13][1][18] You lift your hand, focusing on the pockets of silica twisted into the floor. It takes you a few minutes of concentration to find the right reference points, to concentrate on it. You draw it out of the ground, forming it into dust, which spews from the floor. You cannot control it, and the flow slowly comes to a stop. Too many little things to focus on...
You condense it into a ball, watching the silvery metal coagulate into a sphere. Picking up the heavy mass and wiping away at your bloody nose, you concentrate.
[20] An idea strikes you.
[13][15] You twist your willpower around your empty shoulder. The mass of silicon follows-- flowing into the crude shape of an arm. You trap hydrogen molecules where muscle would be, I'm the joints and in the long, inhuman fingers.
[14] It takes concentration of your will, but you flex the brittle metal. The crafted joints creak-- on a whim, you twist it into a fist, smashing it into the wall. Your new fist shatters, breaking apart.
[18] You sigh, letting the silicon fall away to the concrete below.
Post by: King Zultan on May 08, 2020, 09:57:25 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 12:08:03 pm
:o:))
Hoo, clever! Very clever... a pneumatic arm, just like that.
The thing was easier with just the hydrogen, no? We could make an arm not so different from the original, that way-- a burning facsimile. T'would be a useful trick for our speeches!
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 08, 2020, 12:13:28 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 12:15:30 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 08, 2020, 12:18:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 01:05:00 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 01:14:31 pm
Rest until it's time to leave.
+1
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 08, 2020, 02:13:34 pm
...I suppose we had best save ourself for the battlefield.+1Rest until it's time to leave.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 07:00:17 pm
Putting aside the idea for future deliberation, you return to your room, entering into the hastily-repaired section where Cephelia made an attempt on your life not long ago. The wall has been patched and cleaned, but the window could not be so easily replaced. Instead, the great armored shutter keeps out the cold of the windy mountain early morning. You open it with a press of the button, resting upon the remaining bench.
Cold air bites at you, but your body regulates it quickly, leaving you comfortable as snow trickles in through the opening. You watch the sunrise, watch as it paints the dark sky with vivid reds and gold. The indigo of morning fading into the blue of day as the sun scorches the crater plains below with hues of gold and white. You rise from your meditations, drifting away from the idle thought processes that consume you. The fears, the stresses -- you let them fade away like the cold mountain morning beneath the burning resolution of the rising sun.
You shut the shutter on your way out. You don your underlay, then your panoply, leaving the spare gauntlet and upper arm guard on a table nearby. And you find a package, from Emma. You open it to find a heavy capelet for your lack of an arm. The cloth is fire-resistant on the inside and heavy, water-resistant kevlar on the other. Etched in red is your new sigil, ['SOL'] printed down in it in the old scripts of the Families.
[19][Good morning Pheobe.] Lucille chimes pleasantly as you awaken her, feeling the familiar sting of the needles give way to her omnipresent comfort.
With a check of your equipment, you head down to the pads, the docks, shrugging on your duffle bag as you go
The Crusaders you meet are wearing strange robes, with heavy, entire leg covering boots and thick, rubberized gloves that swaddle their arms. Their gasmasks hiss of their own volition, supplying filtered, pure air. They identify themselves politely as the platoon in charge of scouting with you. Fifty brave men and women. The rest will remain in the Hovercrafts, and limit their exposure to a minimum of an hour.
Lieutenant Peter Byrd introduces himself to you -- a thin man, once he peels away the protective clothing. The two of you board one of the vessels, and it lifts off. He explains the plan. You will lead the scouting Platoon through the Hydrogen Plant. If all goes well, everything will be intact and relatively free of radiation. You will light flares and the other platoons will extract the parts. After that is finished, all materials will be scrubbed in a mountain stream far away from civilization, to remove any radioactive dust that may be present. You dip a nod at the polite, calm explanation, and settle in for the ride.
[19] "We're at safe levels to operate without protective equipment."
"We will do so anyway." Lieutenant Byrd states, bluntly. "Same precautions."
Dust and ash drift down with snow upon the ruined remains of the city. Buildings are collapsed into piles of broken rubble upon the streets, or reduced to cold cinders. Half burned corpses lay in the streets and buried beneath the concrete. The factory is close by -- its a sturdy building of pre-fabricated make, still intact after the ground rending earthquake and blazing firestorms. You slowly make your approach with the Crusaders at your back, hesitant.
[1] You enter first, breaking away from your assigned platoon, feeling claustrophobic in their presence. They do not protest, beginning to divide into squads to search through the building. You stumble through, not really paying much attention to the machinery that surrounds you, content with letting the Crusaders handle it for the time being -- that is, until something approaches. The darkness disorientates you, for once, and you lose your direction.
Abominations, ten of them, with twisting shifting forms that writhe towards you with the smell of fresh human. Their las-guns angle toward you and you dodge out of the way without thinking. Lucille is chiming an alarm, but you cannot hear it -- your adrenaline pounds in your ears as your bloodlust rises in your veins. Black ichor drips wetly from the ceiling, and the smell of cordite fills your nose.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 08, 2020, 07:07:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 07:19:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 07:21:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 07:28:01 pm
This place... has quite possibly been rigged to detonate.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 07:49:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 07:58:43 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 08, 2020, 08:02:24 pm
If they aren't being attacked I don't know if we should go to preemptively defend them, thus possibly leading abominations in their direction, or try to lead the abominations away from them and take them on alone.
Relax. "Explosives. Evacuate the building." Help everyone get out.We are detached from the main group, aren't we?
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 08:08:13 pm
Do we have cover? If we're about to be fired upon on open ground, we'll have to strike down these ten first-- precisely, with tight lashes of fire. If we've something solid between us and las-fire, we can afford evacuation.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 08:10:52 pm
[Pheob--]
[SILENCE.]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 08:16:31 pm
[Adminstering sedative: reason: possible blue on blue.]
The anti-psychotics break through just as the sedatives take hold -- you have a chance to look down at the Crusader below, who stares up through the hole in the roof at you, expressionless beneath the heavy equipment. Your vision swims, your wings faltering, and you tumble to the roof of the building. You drift in the haze, looking up at the sky as the ichor is replaced by ash.
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 08:19:43 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 08, 2020, 08:23:53 pm
What is blue on blue?
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 08:28:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 08:34:08 pm
[1] Black ichor starts to drip from the sky again as your skin twists and itches. You shut your eyes tight against the tentacled horrors that claw their way up from the ground below.
[Shall I administer more sedatives, Ancestors?]
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 08:39:59 pm
Phoebe, take a deep breath, keep your eyes closed, and count to ten. Everything is fine here. There are no enemies. Relax and let yourself become still. Stay here for a bit.
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 08:52:53 pm
[She's falling apart... help her. Please.]
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 08:58:05 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 08, 2020, 09:08:36 pm
[15] "Focus on the here and now, Mother Pheonix. You're safe. You're sane. S- Pheonix protects--" Someone nudges you with a booted foot, and for a second you almost want to break the offending leg-- instead, you comply. "You're safe. You're sane. The Pheonix will protect. The Crusaders will protect. Warm tents. Fresh food. Bravery, strength, sacrifice."
You start at a low whisper, focusing on the words as you lie beneath the padded, very heavy robe. You open your eyes slowly, fearfully, and the sky has returned to the gray overcast.
"It hit you hard -- I didn't know...well...angels suffered from it the same, Mother Pheonix..." Its a young man on the other side of the mask, youthful masculinity hiding fear. Hiding concern.
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 09:23:18 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 08, 2020, 09:28:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 08, 2020, 09:50:32 pm
Maybe this?
Post by: Superdorf on May 08, 2020, 10:06:15 pm
I worry so. What can a dust elder do, but worry?
Post by: VoidSlayer on May 08, 2020, 10:58:11 pm
I should note there are many effective therapies for these kind of things and have seen them used. This should be a priority, as you are in NO shape to be fighting at this point. And without you, there is no hope.
Post by: Eschar on May 08, 2020, 11:12:22 pm
My youth suggests I leave plans of action to the more experienced advisors... but though action is fitting to the Line, it seems quieter plans have their place as well.
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 12:26:19 am
...
I've little stomach for them at the moment... but in truth, we have need of words. The Crusader is concerned.
"Not quite the same... but I pay my price." Sit up, if we can. "I sacrificed more than an arm, against the Leviathan. Its memory is a wound on my mind."
Post by: King Zultan on May 09, 2020, 08:37:54 am
"Not quite the same... but I pay my price." Sit up, if we can. "I sacrificed more than an arm, against the Leviathan. Its memory is a wound on my mind."+1 This sounds like the thing to say.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 09, 2020, 09:41:15 am
Well that could have gone really poorly, good thing we've got some quick thinkers on our side.+1 “I should wear a gas mask too, next time. For now, I think I need to rest”"Not quite the same... but I pay my price." Sit up, if we can. "I sacrificed more than an arm, against the Leviathan. Its memory is a wound on my mind."+1 This sounds like the thing to say.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 12:23:22 pm
"Corporal MacSanders! Is Mother Pheonix alright?"
"Yeah. She's got the Nightmare. She's stable." There's a pause from the Officer below.
"Get your ass back down here and stop sucking up, Child!"
"Yes, Father!" MacSanders gives you a bow of his head, lifting himself up and dropping back down the hole in a scrabble of limbs. You're left alone, and sit beneath the heavy leaded robe.
You rise after a while, dropping back down. The Crusaders are dissembling one of the Refinery's many machines. You pass the dusty robe back to the corporal. Afterwards you content yourself with providing overwatch for the squads from the roof of the buildings. The hovercraft rises from the center of town as Crusaders begin to load the machinery.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 09, 2020, 12:26:42 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 12:40:22 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 01:06:58 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 09, 2020, 01:08:49 pm
Stay here, but watch carefully. Scan the horizon for threats.+1
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 03:37:39 pm
+1Stay here, but watch carefully. Scan the horizon for threats.+1
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 04:11:43 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 04:30:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 04:31:07 pm
[5] The next scavenge site is less peaceful. Las fire bumps against the craft as you approach, and the LT waves off the group. The hovercrafts come to a holding pattern out of the range of fire. His lips quirk as he looks over to you. "I'm going to order us to wave off and find another location if that's alright with you, Mother. Site is more radioactive than the others, anyway. It's your order."
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 04:46:42 pm
"Negative, I will clear the area. Remain in a holding pattern."
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 04:56:57 pm
...it's your war, godling, and you that suffers for it. Do we fight here, or return in force another day?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 05:18:36 pm
The LT dips a nod as you take off the capelet gently, setting it aside as you move to one of the landing zones within the craft. Your wings extend freely as the platform begins to lower. A rictus smile twitches on your face as you condense your willpower into a clawed hand. The room heats up, and the Crusaders watch from above.
You do a quick flyover, too high for the las-fire to hit. One old Colossus and many abominations take shelter within the rubble. Even from how high up you are you can see old blood splattering the charred stones as they help themselves to the leftovers of SEED's explosion. The Colossus is in the center of the 'town', and the abominations are scattered about.
[11 vs 10][13]Shots ring up towards you, and the Colossus coils in on itself, its 'face's tentacles facing you. A shot of red lightning arcs out into the sky, but misses you by a mile. Taking the Void Slayer's suggestion, you lift your 'claw', aiming down it as you condense the more and more hydrogen into it. As it begins to test the strength of your willpower, you funnel it out through a field of energy. It scatters out as soon as it leaves your field of will.
The fireworks are pretty, though. Maybe something to contain it would assist in delivering the payload.
I've got some issues I need to work out. What's the strategy?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 05:27:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 05:32:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 05:35:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 05:37:28 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 05:37:38 pm
I think we should use Silicon Manipulation to create a ravine under the Colossus. Unless range will be a problem.
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 05:38:53 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 05:41:46 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 05:46:00 pm
Get into range and try to cook the colossus alive with Inferno while dodging its tentacles.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 09, 2020, 05:56:23 pm
Oh... sorry about that.
Try earth manipulation spikes against the colossus, targeting the torso area.
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 07:09:34 pm
We shall have to find you a better name than that, "Good Doctor"! You never struck me as the foresting type.
Now. Silicon is unnatural to us... we were nigh slain the last time we wielded it, and we've only grown less comfortable with its use since that day. We saw far more success in our battle on the front, cleaving with fire as we flew.
Descend with all speed, godling-- lash out, and rise again. Be always in motion. Always burning. Leave your enemy no time to scream. Blast the tentacles from this worm's tainted flesh.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 09, 2020, 07:35:46 pm
"Silas". A contraction. Latin: "Silvanus". A wood-god of the Romans.you’re right, burn them with fire, targeting the Collosus
We shall have to find you a better name than that, "Good Doctor"! You never struck me as the foresting type.
Now. Silicon is unnatural to us... we were nigh slain the last time we wielded it, and we've only grown less comfortable with its use since that day. We saw far more success in our battle on the front, cleaving with fire as we flew.
Descend with all speed, godling-- lash out, and rise again. Be always in motion. Always burning. Leave your enemy no time to scream. Blast the tentacles from this worm's tainted flesh.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 09, 2020, 09:27:30 pm
+1 BUUUUUUURRRRRRNNNN"Silas". A contraction. Latin: "Silvanus". A wood-god of the Romans.you’re right, burn them with fire, targeting the Collosus
We shall have to find you a better name than that, "Good Doctor"! You never struck me as the foresting type.
Now. Silicon is unnatural to us... we were nigh slain the last time we wielded it, and we've only grown less comfortable with its use since that day. We saw far more success in our battle on the front, cleaving with fire as we flew.
Descend with all speed, godling-- lash out, and rise again. Be always in motion. Always burning. Leave your enemy no time to scream. Blast the tentacles from this worm's tainted flesh.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 09:35:22 pm
[3 vs. 18][8] You twist in the air, then swoop down like the bird of prey you are, fire curling in your hand. The Colossus twists, watching you. At the last second, it shifts, bringing up a tentacle that hits you like a steel beam, its muscled tentacles crushing into your pelvis. The ricochet sends you hurtling into one of the buildings, breaking through a wall.
[6][12] You panic, unable to feel your legs -- the armor there is cracked, shards hanging together by thin tendrils. In less than heartbeat, Lucille activates your healing factor-- bones knit themselves together, and the armor mends at the same time. Words cannot describe the pain of hundreds of shattered bone shards being forced back into place and melded back together. You growl, dragging yourself to your feet with the brickwork you smashed into.
[20][13 vs. 9] A tentacle rips apart the facade of the building. The Colossus stands face to face with you, its multitudes of mouths opening to begin its horrifying scream of disrupting static. You give it no chance -- you reach your willpower into the ground below. With arithmetic that strains your mind, you rip the earth asunder, devouring half the city and the Colossus with the chasm.
[19][17 vs. 2] You slam the chasm shut with the same force of will you used to sunder it. The creature screams as it's trapped beneath dirt and the hardened silicon of the walls. Its lower body is crushed to a pulp.
[||||...]
[19][16 vs. 13] Its tentacles continue to lash at the building, breaking it apart brick by brick, chunk by chunk. You breath out, focusing your willpower. It starts with a small blue flicker swirling around you, a [ten meter] radius of pale, faint heat. You condense it with your fear, with your rage, with your anger. The firestorm grows, and with a flick of your finger, you wreathe the plasma around the Collusus. Dark grey flesh blackens -- its armor begins to melt.
[|||....]
[15 vs. 16][9] So focused on burning the beast -- you don't notice the tentacle that lashes through the air-- you flinch away, expecting to be struck, but the blades pass right through your flaming arm, doing no damage.
[14 vs 4] You dodge once more, rising up into the air with your wings while burning the creature alive, gathering more and more hydrogen to the great flame that rises in the center of the square. Infected flesh sloughs off in the flame, sizzling and smoke with blueish-green smoke.
[||.....]
[15 vs 20] Shots rip through the air on your location-- they whistle harmlessly over your shoulder, near your helmeted head-- you crack your wrist guard when you lift an arm to shield yourself-- and the flesh ruptures there in flashing steam of red blood.
Lets try this again!
[20][14][20 vs 1] You draw hydrogen into your claw as you dodge and dip pass flailing tentacles, you push yourself until blood begins to drip from your eyes, your ears, your nose, until your helmet's inner display is splattered in it. You fill it with your anger, your humiliation, your fear -- the fear of losing your own personal war with the Infection within -- you let it fill your claw. The hydrogen bubbles its casing of willpower, straining against your energy manipulation. For a second, you fear you cannot contain it.
But you do. You fly up close, pass the writhing tentacles and slam your claw of fire directly into the beast's remaining torso -- tentacles move to intercept you, but a moment too late. The beam turns the bricks to glass, controlled by your willpower, and with a wrench of your will, you bisect the Colossus.
It goes very still, peeling to either side of your claw, its two sides neatly cauterized by the blow.
The Infected lose their cohesion with the death of the Colossus -- las-gun fire would have torn you apart by now. Instead, you note, the remaining plague beasts seek out the nearby corpses of the city's previous inhabitants. Like feral animals, concerned only with feeding -- and nesting. You watch as groups of them begin to huddle together, tentacles twisting into one another until you can no longer tell a difference.
[15 vs 2-5] One approaches -- grabbing at you with a fleshy appendage from its torso -- you take hold of it easily within your gauntleted hand, ripping it off while impaling the abomination through what remains of its face with your own claw.
You examine your shattered wrist. A neat hole penetrates all the way through, your shattered black bone visible. The flow of blood has stopped. You flex your fingers, watching the second delay as the nerves that are still intact are tugged by thin black muscles that flow from your marrow. There's a connection between the fragments of bone and nerves, thin as spider silk. It evaporates into the air.
[11] You activate your healing surge, clenching your teeth in pain -- but you watch as fragments are pulled back together, as the black of your essence turns to the white of bone. Muscle seals over it, then veins, capillaries, skin. Finally, your armor knits itself back together.
I have a town full of feral test subjects. How should your descendent play with them, old ones?
[18] -- another of the abominations approach. With the knowledge you've gleaned from the battle, you give a stylish pose for the benefit of your ancestors sundering open the earth below. Then, you give a snap of your fingers. The sound of crushing bone and flesh fills the air, and a spray of ichor splatters over your boots.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 09:52:07 pm
You twitch into a fighting position, hydrogen fire flaring from your fingertips.
They make no moves towards you.
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 09:54:38 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 09:58:08 pm
That is all.
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 09:59:03 pm
I distrust the posings of these creatures. Slay them swift-- with respect. Do not forget that they once were human.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:07:29 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58s3pnwhHik
The weirdest thing -- they fit the setting so well. It's so freaking weird.
They provide no struggle, no fight, as you slay them one by one with careful places of claw strike. You...lose steam after the tenth. More approach to stand in lines -- and they give no resistance as you slay them. You pause your fighting, instead poking one directly in the chest with a normal finger.
It does nothing.
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 10:12:20 pm
FIXMBR (https://masterbootrecord.bandcamp.com/album/c-fixmbr), by MBR.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 09, 2020, 10:18:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:25:30 pm
I have been waiting for the perfect moment to note this album I think fits this setting as well. Or maybe just fits Phoenix.
FIXMBR (https://masterbootrecord.bandcamp.com/album/c-fixmbr), by MBR.
Ooh. I like this.
Something approaches from the distance, vaguely mand shaped, were man sculpted from chrome with a rictus mask of a human's face impossibly stretched over its features. It lifts its hands towards you -- the universal sign of someone unarmed. Its movements are odd. Sometimes it seems to trip over itself. Other times it forgets to lift one of its feet. It acts like a puppet with cut strings.
[I̸s̷ ̸i̷t̷ ̴n̴o̵t̷ ̶c̸o̵n̵s̵i̷d̴e̵r̷e̸d̷ ̵r̷u̵d̶e̵ ̶t̷o̷ ̶k̶i̷l̷l̸ ̴a̷n̷ ̷'̵h̶o̶n̴o̸r̵'̵ ̶g̵u̷a̵r̸d̶?̸] It doesn't speak, not really. Instead, its voice echoes through your head with constrained emptiness. The language is one you recognize -- High Empyrean touched with the archaic.
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 10:30:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:41:36 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 09, 2020, 10:43:53 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 10:45:28 pm
"[You've never given quarter before. Why should we offer you the same?]"
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 10:49:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:50:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 10:54:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:55:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 10:57:00 pm
Maybe that's how the different plagues differentiate themselves?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 10:58:49 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 11:00:00 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 11:01:07 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:02:20 pm
[I'm sorry, I'm having a difficult time understanding you. If levels of infection are low, doesn't that mean that you are in trouble?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 11:03:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:04:35 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 11:07:45 pm
Is there something we're missing here?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 11:08:37 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 11:11:08 pm
When the Plague rose... always, always, it struck at the Holy City.
Is there something we're missing here?
"Hive mind"..."Infection"... It's not talking about Plague infection! It sees us as an infection, with the City as its core! A growth from a seed - or a SEED! The SEEDships did seem to spread and act semi-autonomously... like an epidemic spreading.
We tried to purge the Plague, viewing it as an abominable ever-spreading infection. It seems the sentiment is mutual.
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 11:15:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:19:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 11:22:03 pm
[Y̷o̵u̶ ̶c̷a̸n̶n̶o̶t̸ ̵s̵u̷r̷v̸i̵v̶e̶,̷ ̴b̷e̴c̷a̵u̴s̵e̴ ̸I̴ ̴m̷u̵s̸t̶ ̴s̴u̵r̸v̷i̶v̴e̵.̶]
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:23:33 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 11:26:31 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:27:17 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 11:27:43 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2020, 11:34:37 pm
[20 vs. 20d20 [...20...20...]] You move before it finishes speaking. Many of the abominations las-shots go wide-- but one rips into your chest. Followed by another -- your breath catches as you try to dodge out of the way of the sudden flurry of fire. You manage to escape the shots by pure luck alone, data coming together to form an instant of insight as soon as the words 'twelve years' leaves your mouth.
[17 vs 20d20 [...19...]] A shot cracks your backplate as you flee into the sky, until the las-fire loses the power to harm, dissipating into the sky beneath you.
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:35:50 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 11:38:27 pm
Warn everyone and Absolutely [Christing] Scram.
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2020, 11:41:29 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 09, 2020, 11:45:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 09, 2020, 11:53:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 12:01:11 am
[14 vs 7+5] Lucille doesn't say a word -- she doesn't have to. The world blurs, twisting and shifting. Your vision darkens and it takes all your willpower to stop from ruining the arithmatic that keeps you from plummeting to your death below. Ichor drips from the skies, and you shut your eyes tight.
Stable. Safe. Φοίβη. Our Φοίβη. Bright moonlight. Φοῖνιξ now. Blood red. Emma. Freedom. Peace. The mountains. Pheonix. Pheonix--
[1 vs 17][I̶̢̡̧̡̧͍̠̣͔̙̻͇͉̖͔͇̱̤͉̙͚̣̦͚͚̮̖̻͉̪̭̲̖̪̪̮̪̒̌͂̓͗͌̌̃̈́̔̀͗̂̐̂̈́̃͛͋͘̚͜͠ͅͅ ̵̡̢̙̘̠̠̝̜͎̪̦̜͙͕͈̹̬͈͈̥̰̹͎̗̤̦̞̙̮͖͕̝̟͓͓̈́̌̋̈̅̀̈́͒̑͐̊̌͒͒̇̈́̋͊̂̊̒́̀͒̅͗̄͛͐͑͐̋̓̐̃͜͝͝͝͝͝͝A̴̢̡̧̳̟̠̼͉̥̮̥̠̦̜͇̞̳̲̱̥̼͖͇̞̘̳̫̱͌̽̓͛͌̓̏͒̋͜͝͝ͅM̴̨̡̨̨̰̣̗̲͍̼͚̝̥̹͕̭̭͎̪̾̿ͅ ̴͖̤̰̱̥̹̤̞̳͕̣͙̩̻̲̟͇̇̒̋͑̇̊́̀͝Í̶̧̨̳͉̫̫̺̰̖̳͉̜͚͖̥̹̯͓̟͓͇̜͙̳̭̞͉̯̭̱̗͖̟͇̥̖̻͓̗͈͔͎̞̟́̄̈́̓̈́̔̈̈́͒̂͛͒͊͑͛̇̐̿͋̌̽̈́̌́͑̚̚̚͠Ň̵̡̲̜̣͕̩̥̞͇̠̬͉̗̙̫̭̺͍̗̦͉̺̼̭̹͇̈́̐̄͊͌̓͝ͅS̵̖̏͌̽́̿̾̄̀̃̈́̓̊̽̎̋̓̔͑̀̕Ḯ̴̧̨̹̼̙̼̤͓̞̝̙̬̣̘͚̪͕̰͇͇͚̖̗̹̣̦̹̟̞̝̤̞̅̓̅̂̋̑̓̾͑͑̌̈͗̾͘͘͘͝ͅD̵̡̈́̌̾̆̈͐̇̄̈̄͑̂̂̅͛͗͘E̶̢̢͖͖̲̝̦̟̼͎͇̼̞͉̰͎͍̭̗̹̦̩͈̠̮̳̺̼̣̳̠̮̗̻̬̖̔̾̓̾͋̂́̃͊͒͒̃͊͒̃͌͒̂̀́̓̒̚̕̚͜͝͝͝ͅͅ ̷̧̡̢̡̧̛̝̪͍͕͎̜̱̝̲͎͖̥͔̼͈̤̺̦̘͔̮̬̙̗̤̯̟̬̠̙͙̩̗̻̟̹̄̀̄̒͛͌̏̍̐͗̿̊̆̈́͗̍̾͐̈͐͌͋́̌̉̾̊̏̑͆̓́͊͑̕̚̕̕͠͝͝͝͝Ỵ̷̡̢̧͖̼̤̭͙̦͍̞̱̯̗̥̮̱̤̤̟̖̝̤͔͉͓̯̺̞͖͖̗͙̼̗̣̱̖̉͂̈́̅̒͒̀́̑̓̓͑̂̌̈̀͊̍̏͌̀̃̎̾͊̀̉̇̿͆͑̂̅̋̊̕̚͝͠Ǒ̷̢̧̨̨̡͙̪̟̞͈͙͎̞̰͈͈̮̘̹̞̖͓̣̰̼͉̘̥̩̖̦̦̱̙͙̐̇͌͆́̈́̒̈́̑́͛̐͛͘̕͘͠ͅͅͅŲ̷̪̠̬̟̠͖͓̫͕̯̗̯̆̒̋̎̀̊͗̎̂̆͗̓͗̀̋̂̎̃̑̅̃̌͋̍̂͒͋̉͊͋̿̐̚̕͘͘̕͝.̵̧̨̢̧̼̱̥͉̬͇̳͙̯͎̤̤̗͍̯̤͎̫̠͚͖̲̱͈̮̺̘͕̺͓̲͈̩͚̐̀̏̓͛̎̉͗́̆͒͜͜ͅͅͅ ̶̡̨̧̡̡͚̙̹̙̺̱͎̜͕̮͖̳͕̞̗̳͎̩͓̘̣̙̫̝̼̤̺̬̹̫̭̼̘̙̟́̍͑͑̾̑̍̉̽͆̾́̉̒͑͑̕̕͘͘͜͜͝f̵̧̢̨̡̧̧̡̡̢͉̫̙̙̙̟̮̥̭̣̭̲̯͇̻̰̱̹͖͈̻͎̟̝͍̣̝̝̮͎̑̌͋̐̓̏̄̋̄̉̅͌͂̋̑̓̆̉̉͋̃̉͒̊̈́̈̂̈́̆̎͐́̏͛̚̚͘ͅͅṏ̷̡̧͖̹͖̖͉͓͈͚̲̠͖̹̺̺̲̤͕̹̺͔͕̼͖̦̠͚̞͓͈̝̻́͊̀͊͜ͅr̵̢̢̨̛̫͙̰̬̟̭̘̤͖̣͇̪̬̙̩̰̪̰̜͉̤͔̯̘͔̃͒̃͛̾̉̿̾̐̏͜͠e̵̢̢̡̧̞͕̼̥̥̳̦̥͔͔̗̼̙͙̊̓͗̕͝ͅv̶̧̡̛͚̬̹̺̟̳̺̱̹̪̙̻͔͉̥̖͇̠̦̳̝̜͓̼̹͉̯̱͈̣̣̓̆͌̈́̂̅͐̅́͋̅́́̈́͑̊͆̓̔́̑͘̚͘͝͝͝ͅͅé̴̢̨̼̳̫̫̥̖̫͕͔̲͈͍̝̤̭͓̪̙͙̀͆̾͊͌̃͆͐̌͗̿̏͗̑̂̆͊̂̂̓̎̚̚͝ͅͅr̶̨̨̢̧̛̰̤̮̦͉̬͎͎̤͍̦̣̻̭͚̗͕͕̖̮̳̰̙̗̙̥̞͈̯̤̖̩̻͕̬̩͓̽̃̄̈́̾͗̄̈̐̑̓̅͒͑̅̚͜͝͠ͅͅ.̵͎͉͈͉͚̘̙̮̝̐̿̃̽̐͑͑̇̈́̌ͅ]
...
...
...
Your wings burn fitfully on your back when you open your eyes. They provide just enough lift to keep your slumped form hovering in the sky. The voice is gone. It is gone. The sun begins to set on the horizon. You peel off your helmet, inhaling the cold radioactive air. The display within is covered with blood. Your head feels numb, and you glance down at your chest. Rivulets of blood run down from your wound, staining the front a dark, dry red.
[I've stabilized you. You've suffered a major hemorrhage of the brain. I would advise immediate withdrawal from the field, if possible. I've also disabled all non-vital powers -- you don't want to see your status.] Lucille's cold voice calmly explains.
Everything feels foggy, and the numbness extends into your limbs. It takes willpower to flex your fingers.
Post by: Eschar on May 10, 2020, 12:09:25 am
Quote from: Lucille
I've also disabled all non-vital powers -- you don't want to see your status.
Oh yes we do - well, we advisors do, but I agree with Lucille it might adversely affect you, Phoenix.
Check status of our team. If possible order them to get out. Scram - whether that means finding where the team is rendezvousing as fast as possible and arranging exit strategy, or getting to a safe distance first to recover our strength before trying to fly to the exit point. We need to get away from this abomination. And our team certainly does too.
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 12:12:36 am
The things we put you through...
Post by: Eschar on May 10, 2020, 12:17:38 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 12:20:01 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 12:27:47 am
Lucille speaks for you, chiming in a cold, soft voice very much unlike your own "Withdraw."
[1] A medic tugs at your helmet -- you hesitate. But Lucille has no care for your discomfort. No care to hide your defeat from your Crusaders. The assembled soldiers gasp at the sight of your blood-smeared face and unfocused eyes. The medic shines a small light in your eyes --
"She's unresponsive. Get her on the craft -- SEED bless how do I even work on an Angel."
They heft you up and into the craft. Your consciousness swims, but you remain awake. They peel away your armor, plugging the hole in your chest with piles and piles of gauze, wrapping a tight bandage around the crater-- the chatter fades in and out-- before something stirs you from your twilight slumber.
"...what's taking so long? We need to get her to a--"
"We're being followed."
"...shit."
You pass out.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 01:29:46 am
Spoiler: I call this image you got incredibly lucky (click to show/hide)
I am disappointed. Is my Line so willing to die on this backwater? Dying the death of the old and feeble? Too weak to die standing? Rise. Fight. Die.
"P-please...we need you...Pheonix."
[11] You answer the Medic's prayers with a twitch of your fingers, opening your eyes. Screams filter in from outside. You twist your willpower into your own body, moving your body with nothing but determination. Your wings flare forth; bright, bloody gold in the dim light of the ruined bay. The Medic is bleeding to death, but relief floods her features when you stand. When you put your helmet on.
[15] You leave the crashed Hovercraft. Two others, intact, sit with doors open as las-gun fire rains down on them from above. Abominations move to break makeshift barricade hastily constructed between the three, defending it from waves of the beasts. Soldiers even lay prone on the wreckage you walked out of, firing into the teeming mass that surrounds the vessel.
You pick up a las rifle in your hand, having to clasp it tightly, using your willpower to twist your hand on to the trigger. Everything is still numb, still cold.
Three hovercraft. Twenty-five abominations. Strategy?
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 01:45:38 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 01:52:31 am
We're a corpse with a gun in this state-- we need to get out. The surviving hovercraft, can we reach it without drawing fire from the abominations?
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 02:19:13 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 02:24:04 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 02:26:56 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 10, 2020, 02:52:13 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 02:58:16 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 10, 2020, 03:02:38 am
Let our armor tell us what we've power got at hand, and we'll work from there. Anything beyond that could well break us for good.Good idea
[Lucile, what powers do we have right now?]
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 04:24:26 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 10, 2020, 06:14:07 am
+1 Knowing what we're able to do is important.Let our armor tell us what we've power got at hand, and we'll work from there. Anything beyond that could well break us for good.Good idea
[Lucile, what powers do we have right now?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 09:16:47 am
Then we shall be broken.
[18] Las-fire streaks through the air around you. An Infected hover-craft strafes you, it's shots kicking up dirt. You do not flinch -- despite the clear target you make in golden panoply, with wings flaring, no shots truly connect.
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 11:29:00 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 12:16:37 pm
The third falls back, and you rise to meet it in the air.
[15][6 vs. 6] You rip the wings off the pesky fly -- just as it mulches your chest with a laser round. You hit the ground --
[1] You don't rise again. Blackness creeps up to meet you. Firm hands grab your inert body.
You have lived up to my name-- our name, my daughter.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 10, 2020, 12:30:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 12:33:46 pm
The body is broken. What of the will?
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 01:20:28 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 02:46:41 pm
Perhaps it is better if she was to rise as an Ancestor? Wouldn't it be less painful? Or is the pain all she has?
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 03:05:27 pm
...
...explain to me this ancestral process. If she joins our ranks, who will take her place?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 03:34:24 pm
[14][10][9]
There is no dignity in death. I feel. Do you feel the same?
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 03:35:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 10, 2020, 03:38:54 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 03:55:59 pm
Speak not comfortably to me of death, oh great Odysseus.
βουλοίμην κ᾽ ἐπάρουρος ἐὼν θητευέμεν ἄλλῳ,
Rather would I live on ground as the hireling of another
ἀνδρὶ παρ᾽ ἀκλήρῳ, ᾧ μὴ βίοτος πολὺς εἴη,
with a landless man who had no great livelihood,
ἢ πᾶσιν νεκύεσσι καταφθιμένοισιν ἀνάσσειν.
than bear sway among all the dead that be departed.
Homer. The lament of Achilleas, on the pale fields of Elysium. What good is a noble demise, when thus we forsake the living?
This body. Can it be salvaged yet?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2020, 05:56:36 pm
Your eyelids are barely responsive, but they slowly flicker open. Your throat and nose are full of tubes. Saline drips into your veins. A machine forces air into your lungs. Pain, horrible pain, consumes you entirely. Your cores are not suppressing it.
A probe of willpower, examining your chest --
Humans were not meant to take a las-shot from a Hover-craft. Beneath the bandages, beneath the padding that keeps your organs from falling out -- your thoracic cavity lies bared to the world. Fractured messes of black bone, hastily stitched together organs. Thin tendrils of your essence work in the places of muscles ruptured. The bandages are red with blood.
You try to heal yourself instinctively -- and black out.
It's days later when you awaken again. Unable to move, tied to machines that bring only pain. Fear, anger, disgust...it all wells inside, too potent for words. It takes long for Pheonix to form a coherent sentence through the pain.
I'm scared.
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2020, 06:21:43 pm
"Good Doctor": of all of us, you are most skilled in the healing arts. Guide the essence. Bolster the essence. Do what you may to mend this vessel.
Those of you who remember pain: help me now to take it unto myself. Our honored daughter should not have to bear it all.
Too long have we advised and done nothing. Too long have we left this one to suffer alone. No more.
No more.
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2020, 06:33:00 pm
Try to get a sense of the injuries, both physical and mental.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 10, 2020, 08:42:07 pm
I will do what I can. Phoenix, you've escaped with your life. You're safe. There is no need to fear.+1 I’ll try suppressing Phoebe’s pain by taking it into myself
Try to get a sense of the injuries, both physical and mental.
We should feel the pain, too. She mustn’t suffer it all
I’m scared, too. But now we wait and heal.
Post by: King Zultan on May 11, 2020, 08:00:04 am
I will do what I can. Phoenix, you've escaped with your life. You're safe. There is no need to fear.+1
Try to get a sense of the injuries, both physical and mental.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 11, 2020, 12:14:59 pm
Somebody, you assume Silas, has done his best with the technology available. Staples along with fine stitches hold together frayed organs -- and your will provides a thin membrane to allow them to function at a survivable level. Tubes drain blood to prevent further strain on the system. A crude ventilator system gently pumps an oxygen mixture into your lungs through your nose. A feeding tube snakes it's way down your throat, into your stomach, filled with something greasy and grey looking. You assume nutrient cubes, with enough liquid to make it easily digestible. A saline solution and a bag of blood drip into your veins, attempting to offset the blood loss from such a grievous injury. Padding -- gauze and bandages, fill your insides, damp with disinfectant and healing salve. Another attempt to prevent you from losing too much blood.
Somebody enters, a thin, gaunt young man in a lab coat -- Silas. He looks down at you with mild confusion when your eyes find him. He blinks slowly, then takes a note, despite your twitching fingers. "You're awake. That's...probably not good." Reaching into a nearby drawer in the dull, grey room, he pulls out a syringe. "A blend of painkillers and sedatives designed for you. It's better that you sleep through your healing process." Leaning down, quietly, "For Emma's sake too, darling. I told her that I will only let her see you when you wake up."
"Shake your head no if you do not wish to be put under, Lady Pheonix."
You cannot move.
"Wonderful. Always good to have your informed consent for my medical practices."
[20] You dream in the throes of chemical sleep.
You dream of familiar wills coiling near you. One, a mirror of you, icey blue, cold as the mountains beneath the dying stars in the distant expanses of space-time. The other, old, withered, but strong like a great oak tree, strong in the face of many storms.
The two clash. The oak burns away to nothing, but the roots remain, reaching into the depths of the ground.
You awaken again sometime later, slipping free of your chemical bonds to painful consciousness. You sit in the silence with your pain, probing at your chest -- its healed some by now. They've removed some of the gauze and your organs feel...stronger. Somebody approaches again, and you prepare yourself for another week of fitful, drug-induced sleep. Its a woman, a Crusader Medic. She hovers over you for a moment, noting your focused eyes.
"[Pheonix of Sol. You're awake.]"
You can say nothing, the tubes shoved down your mouth preventing coherent speech -- your lungs probably couldn't bear it.
"[Right. I've brought something for this...]" Cephelia removes a gold and black glove from her white coat, slipping it over your wrist.
[Good Morning Pheobe. You're healing well.]
Transmit my thoughts to speech.
[Affirmative.] Horrible screeching echoes through the room from your wrist -- Cephelia collapses back, startled.
Not those.
Lucille stops transcribing your agony.
"[Cephelia. You've returned.]" Lucille offers weakly, cold and precise.
"[Its been a month since you've sent me out. But I come back to find you all weak and vulnerable. How easy it would be to control you now...were it not for Emma and William...]" Cephelia trails off, looking thoughtful. With a mock sigh, she sits on your bed, brushing your greasy red hair from your eyes with tenderness. "[If only the Empyre could see the scourge of the stars now. How they would laugh, how they would mock.]"
You say nothing.
"[I have an offer for you Pheobe. I will mend your flesh. I will make you whole again until you can knit yourself together again.]"
"[And what can I offer the Ascended with everything?]"
"[Many things Pheobe. But the thing I want most -- your trust. Your friendship. Maybe eventually your affection.]"
"[I have Emma.]"
"[You have an Oracle and a Tin Man. Neither are true Ascended. Neither can do what we do. Neither can speak the language of the Universe and have it jump to their bidding like a loyal pet. The first two are fine for now, however. Do we have a bond?]" Her words dip into the tongue of the High Empyreal, archaic and older than the Endless Empire. The language of bonds, of law -- the language she swore her subservience to you with. It is not a true bond, not a true oath, but she shows that it is not to be taken lightly, the word you give.
Post by: Eschar on May 11, 2020, 01:13:21 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 11, 2020, 01:20:58 pm
”[If you wanted to kill me, you would have done so. As you are helping me, I might be able to trust you. We might be able to become friends.]”
Post by: ZBridges on May 11, 2020, 02:11:40 pm
((Thornton))+1
”[If you wanted to kill me, you would have done so. As you are helping me, I might be able to trust you. We might be able to become friends.]”
Post by: Superdorf on May 11, 2020, 02:20:40 pm
Necessary.
...she'll want a definite answer. No "might"s.
["You think I keep those two for their power? That was never the way of it."]
...
["...you have my trust, Cephilia of Lavoisier. Keep it well-- it will not be mended again. My friendship, you had already."]
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 11, 2020, 02:43:28 pm
Disturbing.+1, this is better
Necessary.
...she'll want a definite answer. No "might"s.
["You think I keep those two for their power? That was never the way of it."]
...
["...you have my trust, Cephilia of Lavoisier. Keep it well-- it will not be mended again. My friendship, you had already."]
Post by: Kashyyk on May 11, 2020, 02:48:32 pm
I have to say the writing has been exemplary, and I look forward to more. I might even manifest as a voice on occasion.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 11, 2020, 03:49:58 pm
+1Disturbing.+1, this is better
Necessary.
...she'll want a definite answer. No "might"s.
["You think I keep those two for their power? That was never the way of it."]
...
["...you have my trust, Cephilia of Lavoisier. Keep it well-- it will not be mended again. My friendship, you had already."]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 11, 2020, 09:58:41 pm
"[Wonderful -- I was already going to try my best to heal you anyways, but now I have more motivation.]"
Cephelia gently takes out a piece of rubber, setting it between your teeth. You bite down on it. She barricades the door with a cabinet, moving quickly and quietly, before returning to your side. Her form slowly shifts, returning to her preferred form. Long fingers gently peel away your bandages, revealing your ruined chest.
"{You're going to scar from this.]" She murmurs, sadly, examining the injury.
"[What? We don't scar--]"
"[Wounds that scar our minds scar our flesh. They alter our baseline. I'm assuming you're having trouble with your arm, as well?]"
You flinch, and would feel your stomach drop were it not sitting out like this.
"[I'll help you fix that too. Not now. This is going to hurt, so I'm taking your armor off. You have to allow me to work your physical form. We cannot work on each other's body with yielding our wills.]"
...
She's right. It does hurt. Cephelia starts by melding the flesh of your thoracic cavity back together, slowly, painfully. Where there is no organ, she instead uses a mesh of black fibers, pulled away from a dark black block. With the first part of her task nearly done, she reaches over, turning on the oxygen pump until you begin to choke and cough, then, quickly seals the cavity. You do note, after several, painful, probably bloody coughs that you breathe easier now.
Coils of the carbon twist themselves around, filling in the spots where your bone is missing, capping them off, or holding them together with great chunks. The empty space where your sternum is filled in the same way, replaced by a plate of black carbon, her fingers tracing slowly as sweat beads on her forehead-- and until blood drips from her nose.
Cephelia slumps, looking down at your exposed and reconstructed rib cage. Rising, she finds a surgical mask, slipping it on over her face. She takes a few deep breaths, then gets back to work. She teases muscle fibers together the best she can, replacing it with carbon fiber where necessary, sealing it over your exposed bone until you're left with a patch of black, shiny mesh across your chest. No more gaping hole, no more bandages holding in your organs -- replaced by a surgical mesh of carbon fiber.
"[Thank all the Gods we don't get normal infections -- you'd be out of luck.]"
She pulls the tubes from your mouth and nose, and you cough and sputter -- but can breathe on your own again. Rising is still difficult, as she was unable to replace the muscles with anything, but you are no longer tied to those infernal machines. Cephelia helps you sit up, swaddling your chest in a bandage when you do. "I need a break, Pheobe." She murmurs, settling into her chair with a tired smile. "Don't exert yourself -- the mesh can tear."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 11, 2020, 10:34:45 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 11, 2020, 10:42:34 pm
why did i write these useless comments back in.... 2020?
Post by: Superdorf on May 11, 2020, 10:43:22 pm
A healer. A healer. I am grateful. You breathe again. I am grateful.
Post by: ZBridges on May 11, 2020, 10:53:22 pm
"Thank you."
A healer. A healer. I am grateful. You breathe again. I am grateful.
Find out from Cehpie about the result of the mission we were on.+1. There are a number of things to check on.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 11, 2020, 10:58:52 pm
"Thank you." You manage to croak with your own voice, and Cephelia gives you a winning smile. The effect is ruined by her sharp teeth, but the sincerity is there.
"You're welcome, Pheobe. Sorry I can't do more, but since you seem incapable of healing...a patch job is best I can offer."
"I don't know." Cephie shrugs a shoulder, leaning back in her chair. "I got back a couple of days ago. You weren't in public, and I smelled a secret. So I did some digging. Then I found a mark who helped out Silas. The rest is history. No one knows who I am, and I don't think you ever properly introduced me to your [kindred]."
With another shake of her head, "I doubt Emma would take kindly to me, after all that's happened."
Post by: ZBridges on May 11, 2020, 11:03:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 11, 2020, 11:14:02 pm
"What were the results of your mission?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 12:42:59 am
"I'll submit my mission report to you in short order, with all the details. To summarize; there was a mixed reaction. Some didn't believe it, some vowed loyalty and hoped for assistance, and others tried to shoot me down. The Plague hasn't penetrated inland enough to cause serious harm. Some skirmishes here and there."
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 01:00:40 am
"[Zero, can you please direct me to Emma? Also, are there any critical and time-sensitive issues I should be aware of?]"
Post by: King Zultan on May 12, 2020, 02:25:37 am
"Understood. I will have further orders for you when I get a better sense of what the situation is. You are dismissed."+1
"[Zero, can you please direct me to Emma? Also, are there any critical and time-sensitive issues I should be aware of?]"
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 12, 2020, 02:52:11 am
+1"Understood. I will have further orders for you when I get a better sense of what the situation is. You are dismissed."+1
"[Zero, can you please direct me to Emma? Also, are there any critical and time-sensitive issues I should be aware of?]"
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 09:50:41 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 09:52:26 am
"What the hell ha--" He stares at your bared, patched chest -- then he takes a clipboard, and scribbles a note down. "How did that happen?"
["We've been informed by the Council of Ministries that you are not to be bothered with any duties until you are fully healed. Such an evaluation will be completed by her and a team of medical professional. As ordered by Emeralda Thornton, your regent, and Communication Minister.That was their first edict."]
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 09:58:37 am
"Visit from another [angel]-- carbon worker. A patch over lost tissue."
"Sudden movements could tear it. I'm to ask about cough medicine."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 10:16:45 am
Silas pauses, staring at you for a few silent moments. "Emma is concerned with your mental state. As is..." He gestures to your gloved hand, "That thing. It provided me with a chemical formula to synthesize for you."
"I'm quoting here, ' I would recommend regular daily doses of antipsychotics combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy. Let's see if you make progress with those. Also, requistion a leaded blanket. A leave of absence from the conflict and other duties is to be recommended.' I have no idea what the latter is, this cognitive behavioral therapy, but I finished your medicine last week, and we've manufactured a leaded blanket."
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 10:56:01 am
"The Crusaders called it 'the nightmare'. Some kind of lingering [plague] damage."
Sigh. "It got... bad out there. Hallucinations. Dripping sky, writhing ground. The [plague] attacked me through it, at some point... the armor tells me I suffered a brain hemorrhage. I'm lucky to have survived."
I'm unsure how much of the [infection] still remains with us. It took up a space in our cores... the same space we all share. I'm of a mind to seek out and destroy what remains, if I can.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 11:38:06 am
"The...the Crusaders know about this? With your permission, I'd like to draw blood samples and interrogate them about this 'nightmare'." Silas looks thoughtful, then turns and leaves you after your observation. He returns with another Medic and a wheelchair. "Since you're awake, I'd like to show you something. I set up my lab on this level -- "
"And I can keep a secret about this duty. I feel like you would appreciate my findings more than Emma did. She was horrified, but I feel like you would be intrigued."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 12, 2020, 11:45:04 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 12:06:00 pm
The Medic wheels you into his lab, and besides for the vast amount of scientific instruments crammed into such a small space, you notice many small, white rats in cages, along with the Colossus section you gave him. In the center of the room, facing a wall painted white, is a box with a glass lid. He flicks the light on, and places a slide down on it.
"This is from the...thing you sent me."
There are many black small dots, which make up a stiff, hard wall of a round cell. They are pitch black in the light and they creep along sluggishly, even after all this time -- still alive, still functioning, however weakly. Pieces occasionally break off, only to reform anew.
"Next, is this one..."
It too has many square cell walls, but they are lined up perfectly, and not as dark in color, more transparent. However, you notice similar black dots to the first. Far less, of course, but enough to notice.
"Can you guess what this is?"
"No." You reply.
"This is from a sample of grass from the Thornton Lawns. And this...is a sample of my own blood."
Round cells show up on the wall this time, but there's more of those black dots.
"I discovered -- we are all carriers of the Plague. However, I do believe that it depends on the level -- that there's a certain threshold before we become truly infected." He removes a small device from one the tables. Switching it on, it produces a level of static, faint, but all radios do. A natural thing, caused by man-made electronics, atmospheric conditions, and residual effects from the creation of the universe itself. "Listen."
He holds in the air, producing a simple static. Then, he walks over to the segment of worm you delivered to him.
[11] It changes, becoming more orderly, but it still is static.
"However these [radios] work, so too does the Plague. If enough of it comes together, it seems like it begins to use this principle to organize itself. I've infected rats, and after a certain number, a certain amount of biomass, they start to coordinate. Without it, they simply seek out food, namely complex proteins, mindlessly."
"If they do not get enough food, their metabolism slows to a crawl, and they enter into a dormant period. Technically still alive, but unresponsive to anything besides warmth or motion, that is to say, what data tells them is prey."
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 12:11:14 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 12:14:57 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 12, 2020, 12:19:56 pm
"This is interesting. I wonder if it's possible to filter out the plague cells from the blood. Has this been attempted in the rats yet?"
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 12:20:47 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 12:27:55 pm
"I don't know enough about this technology to try and...communicate or order them, unfortunately. I don't even know where to start. This is too advanced for me -- I've been learning, but I am a microbiologist, chemist, and a dabbling doctor-- I only have so much time in the day." Silas looks apologetic, shaking his head and turning towards a corner of the room. "Filtering it out...well. I could try, but it invades other membranes as well. It's not just in the blood -- in its everything. Bone marrow, lung walls -- you name it."
"There's also this -- so, I've been playing around with the [cryogenic] pods. Now, organic material, if not properly stored, is completely ruined. I put a rat through it on a whim -- it's dead, living with all of its rat friends in Paradise, no doubt. Its skin completely just like...melted. Complete cellular destruction." He grins, then, directs your attention to a cube of reinforced glass on the corner, pockmarked with cracks. The rat looks incredibly unhealthy. Its flesh is nearly all sloughed off, revealing silvery tendons between bones. Its eyes have rotted out of its skull, replaced with ones of gray. They are insect-like, on stalks. It doesn't move until Silas approaches -- then it lashes at the box towards him, towards you, haphazardly, its reddish-gray skull cracking on the glass
"This is one I infected, then put through the same process without protections. I used a lot of the cryogenic mix, until the thermometer I was using broke apart. I capped it at [290 degrees Celsius]. The Plague virus survived."
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 01:32:34 pm
"Could you bring this to the attention of the Ministry of Technology? I would like them to look into radio jammers in order to leverage this information."
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 01:52:56 pm
((The Canadian kitten?))
Or perhaps Alphira. You've access to her memory banks now, after all.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 02:24:01 pm
"Sure. I don't know how effective it will be -- radios are very new to us." Silas shrugs. "But it's worth a shot, yes."
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 02:57:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 03:00:44 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 12, 2020, 03:09:59 pm
The skies above worlds streaked with fire as you and the Eldest did battle with another of your infected siblings. You struck him down, but not before he cleaved you apart with stolen light.I can only assume that my siblings and I did an oritbal bomardment of those planet surfaces while sending down empyreal to clean up the mess.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 03:18:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 03:26:01 pm
"At that point, I would like you to expose me to the anxiogenic situations, starting with the ones. I will record the level of my anxiety and how long it takes for that anxiety to dissipate. Once I've done this repeatedly, and the level of anxiety and time required to reduce it is lessened signficiantly, we will move on to more difficult exposures."
"The idea is that I will learn coping strategies through repeated practice that will help me tolerate the effects of psychosis. Combine this with regular doses of antipsychotics."
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 03:29:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 03:31:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 03:48:07 pm
It all sounds faintly ridiculous... but then, I was never much of a healer. If this is the way that minds are made whole, then (at the discretion of our host) so be it.
This won't be sufficient to heal the [plague] damage, mind: there's an [infection] in us needs purging. We may want to let Silas interrogate one or two of the Crusaders as to this "nightmare" after all.
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 04:31:54 pm
[Lucille, do you have radio jamming capabilities?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 04:36:25 pm
"Ah. It was from that cube. I think it was called a cognitive rehabilitation and programming pod. It was advised to be used with the Loom."
[9] You remember such a pod-- you spent as much time as possible in one during your youth upon the station, availing yourself to the combat simulations. Most long term ships have one -- entertainment and education rolled into one.
[Only for your personal radio connections.]
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 04:44:24 pm
"[Zero, in order to aid my treatment, I need a cognitive rehabilitation and programming pod. Please let the Ministry of Technology know, or forward my request to Emma, if necessary.]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 04:54:41 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 04:56:55 pm
"I've been informed that the creation of the pod could take up to ten years. For now, we will need to carry out the treatment manually... probably."
[Lucile, are you capable of simulating a cognitive rehabilitation and programming pod?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 06:00:07 pm
"Ah. Okay then. I'll try to come up with something." Silas murmurs, rubbing at the back of his head.
[20]Cephelia might have one -- if a ship has cryopods, it has one of those pods. Otherwise, it would be impossible to maintain said ship.
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 06:11:22 pm
"[Cephie, can I speak to you for a moment? I'd like to ask you something and apologize for my earlier behavior.]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 06:17:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 06:18:57 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 06:21:40 pm
If we are to treat Cephilia not as a vassal, but as a friend-- if we are truly to trust her, as we pledged--
...we could release her. Render void the contract she gave us. A token beyond any apology we could give.
I do not order-- I merely offer. Has the thing merit?
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 06:26:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 06:30:20 pm
[I will scan through the channels to try and locate Cephelia, Pheobe.]
...That...might be a step too far. We can be friend and foe with an oath still bound. If we remove it completely...she might find us foe again. It would be a major symbol of trust -- but she is still bound to Magnus. But if my Ancestors wish it so, I would give in.
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 06:33:02 pm
In fact, let's make that official. For the time being, I oppose releasing Cephie from her bond with us.
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 06:43:32 pm
We are advisors, Phoenix-of-Sol-- did you not name us so? Do not hesitate to contest us, as the need rises. You deserve a hand in your own fate.
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 06:52:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 07:57:31 pm
I trust your judgement and guidance. If I didn't, I would stop listening -- eventually, you would fade away. I don't want that--
Also you guys are much better at talking than me...but how about a compromise. It may be a bit manipulative, but she seems desperate for attention and comfort. Maybe something like that could be used?
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 08:12:51 pm
["Cephie, I'm sorry that I acted coldly towards you after you healed me. I've been through a lot recently, and it is difficult for me to trust others. I really value your help and advice."]
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 08:40:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 08:54:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 08:55:35 pm
Now. Perhaps a rearranging of the words, leaving out the clause in question?
"I... need to apologize."
"Trusting people is hard for me. I tend to get myself hurt, trusting people-- but I pushed you away back there. Treated you like one of my soldiers. You're supposed to be more than that. I gave my word."
"Your help, your advice-- I really am grateful, Cephie. I'm sorry."
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 09:27:01 pm
Ahh... you honor us, Φοίβη. You honor us. Someday, you will outgrow us-- and that, that will be the greatest honor of all.+1
Now. Perhaps a rearranging of the words, leaving out the clause in question?
"I... need to apologize."
"Trusting people is hard for me. I tend to get myself hurt, trusting people-- but I pushed you away back there. Treated you like one of my soldiers. You're supposed to be more than that. I gave my word."
"Your help, your advice-- I really am grateful, Cephie. I'm sorry."
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 09:39:57 pm
Ahh... you honor us, Φοίβη. You honor us. Someday, you will outgrow us-- and that, that will be the greatest honor of all.+1
Now. Perhaps a rearranging of the words, leaving out the clause in question?
"I... need to apologize."
"Trusting people is hard for me. I tend to get myself hurt, trusting people-- but I pushed you away back there. Treated you like one of my soldiers. You're supposed to be more than that. I gave my word."
"Your help, your advice-- I really am grateful, Cephie. I'm sorry."
+1
Better. Spy and unknown though she is, if we are to seek Cephie's trust, I prefer that we be worthy of it. We need her help, her resources, but maybe I would rather go without them if we cannot get them without resorting to the formerly-proposed... trickery. Using her trust as a mere token to get what she has. Yes, I am cautious about releasing her fully, but I have no taste for demanding she become our tool. It's the type of thing SEED wouldn't bat an eyelash at, but we must strive to be more worthy.
Heh. "We need her help... I would rather go without..." Maybe my personal opinions are beginning to color my judgement.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 12, 2020, 09:45:47 pm
+1Ahh... you honor us, Φοίβη. You honor us. Someday, you will outgrow us-- and that, that will be the greatest honor of all.+1
Now. Perhaps a rearranging of the words, leaving out the clause in question?
"I... need to apologize."
"Trusting people is hard for me. I tend to get myself hurt, trusting people-- but I pushed you away back there. Treated you like one of my soldiers. You're supposed to be more than that. I gave my word."
"Your help, your advice-- I really am grateful, Cephie. I'm sorry."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 10:25:58 pm
You hesitate, then explain your situation.
["That does sound bad. I'll go and pick up my ship shortly. You interested in a flyover of the Outlands? I'm sure you'll have to take a hover-craft with the rest of us [peasents, serfs, hive-worker, lower class], but I think you'll be fine. I'll can come get you -- and bring you to check in with Emma. Watching you get scolded will more than make up for your behavior."]
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 10:28:13 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 10:35:26 pm
I retract a bit of my previous moralizing - we ain't going to be ensnaring her in some web of false trust even if we try.
Keep my statements in mind, though. Not all people whose help we might need in the future will be as perceptive as Cephelia of Lavoisier.
She is - barely - not equal to us in pure strength, but nobody will be [pulling the wool over her eyes] anytime soon.
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 10:40:44 pm
["Thanks, Cephie. That sounds good."]
+1
Do we know what became of that capelet of ours?
Post by: Eschar on May 12, 2020, 10:43:15 pm
This... is going to be quite the scolding.["Thanks, Cephie. That sounds good."]
+1
Do we know what became of that capelet of ours?
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 11:03:04 pm
"Medic Kimberly? You're the [angel]?" Silas states, obviously confused by her appearance. Cephie gives a small grin, her teeth wearing away to reveal the sharp incisors. Brown hair turns black, shimmering with oils beneath the cheap lighting. Her face stretches, becoming more androgynous, more sharply etched. The iris of her eyes blacken, until there seems to be no difference between them and her pupils. She straightens, losing weight.
"Kimberly is sleeping off some sedatives in her room." Cephie explains, brushing her hair back over her shoulder.
"So...you're the other [angel]?" He questions, and she hesitates, then nods. "Can I ask you something?"
"Shoot." Cephie takes hold of the handles of your chair, leaning against it, against you.
"Why do you look [androgynous, lit. share both male and female features.]?"
"[The Endless] made us in his or her image -- when you're powerful enough to change your entire body on a whim I guess you stop caring about gender as much. It also makes it easier for people to deify us."
"Wait, whats the [The Endless, Incorrect]?"
"One question Silas Thornton." The two of you leave -- well, she leaves, and you're just in tow. You take the personnel elevator, up to the top floor. Cephie seems in a better mood, and idly picks at robes while she waits.
You probably have time to ask her something.
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 11:14:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 11:22:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 11:26:23 pm
"As for how many...well, the Old Lines, like you, are few in number, and their histories are recorded across the galaxy, written in blood. New Lines, like myself, have fewer ancestors, less storied pasts -- I can't give you a number, because it would be like counting sand at a beach, or hydrogen in a star. Newer Lines are less combat focused, though. I'm the third of my line, and my previous ancestor was an entertainer..."
"Let me explain it this way. When you get into the Void, one out of every two hundred people you meet will be an Ascended. On a planet, one out a billion might be better."
Cephie grins, "You tell me."
Post by: ZBridges on May 12, 2020, 11:36:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2020, 11:52:50 pm
Let us make a conversation of it, at least.
Grin a little, ruefully. "...I've been dead for a month. Again. I'm in trouble."
"I was supposed to be flying an easy mission, you know-- in and out. Then the hallucinations started."
...
"Do you know anything of my sickness, the 'Nightmare?'"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 12, 2020, 11:56:35 pm
Then she wheels you into an office, where Emma sits at a desk, consulting with several individuals you don't recognize. Mitch paces nearby, bounding over to give you a playful nip. Emma's face falls, and all at once she looks very old, very fragile. "Leave. Everyone."
"Hi! I'm --"
"Iyal, yes, I don't care. Get out. If you want me to like you, take Mitch with you when you go."
Cephie blinks, looking between the two of you. She almost looks disappointed, but she snatches up Mitch's lead and drags him out the door. Emma sits across from you, hunching over the desk in silence. She's wearing glasses, which, you know, must only be for cosmetic purposes. She doesn't approach, doesn't move to hug you, and you take in the room at a glance. A wardrobe sits in the corner, rugs adorn the floors, and a Thornton Banner hangs to the right of one with your new symbol on it. Perhaps most disconcertingly, a bed lies just out of view in the next room.
"Pheobe." She begins, and you can feel panic rising in your chest. "I can't keep doing this. I can't. I don't think we can be together anymore. Not as lovers."
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 12:02:11 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 12:06:59 am
oh
I
...
pain
...
all I can say
all I can say is
is
...
hear her out.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 12:27:06 am
"But I -- we can't build a relationship on that. I want us to have a future. I want us to be happy -- but how much pain do I have to trade now for that future? How much misery? How many times do I have to see you crawling back from god knows what battle, covered in your own blood? How many times do I have to lay awake at night, watching you cry or scream or burn the bed?"
You say nothing, even as tears sting your eyes.
"I'm being selfish. I know." Emma admits with a sniffle, rubbing at her face, but she continues to cry. Her eyes becoming puffy and red, especially because she keeps palming at them. "When I stopped seeing you every day when I stopped visiting you -- my dreams stopped. I started dreaming of other things again. I started being able to sleep again."
"I understand if you never want to see me again, if you want me to go, if you want to get angry with me -- I'll figure something out. But...I can't let myself be so close to you. Not now."
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 12:37:14 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 12:47:54 am
You could offer to take Emma-- board Cephie's dropship-- flee into the void. Flee all of this. Safety on some other world.
It would be an-- an abandonment
but if that is your choice, we will not hold it against you
and if not-- or if she will not-- then there is only left to say
"I understand"
"I love you"
"I'm sorry"
and perhaps after the war... things will be different
I don't know
I don't know
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 01:01:21 am
Life is suffering, dear. It's part of the human condition, and there's no changing that.
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 07:32:07 am
I am torn.
There is indeed a choice, to be with Emma and abandon this planet, but shall we leave thousands of people bereft of their present keeper? There are generals, yes, soldiers, Crusaders, but they may not be able to defend the people. The Plague is an excellent tactician, as we saw with the Line.
Emma is not, as she said, selfish. But that would be.
But now is not the time for my strategizing.
For now, listen to her. I do not know in full the pain you are feeling, I was... too distrustful for that, but do not let it provoke you to any hasty interjections.
Wait.
Listen.
Do not be what she fears - do not become angry with her, or refuse to ever see her again, as she said.
And, yes, maybe things can change after the war.
That is all I can say.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:34:03 am
[1]There is no peace in the Void. War will follow me everywhere I go. I am of blood and ash. This I know.
You do not say that to Emma, you do not say what you are truly thinking. Instead, with a strain of muscles better left unstrained, you rise from your wheelchair. Words have always failed you, and now is no different. With a few shaky steps, you approach her -- she flinches, afraid. Perhaps she thought you would be wrathful, or angry.
You wrap her in a tight hug. She cries, and you stand like a stone. Unaffected on the outside as your heart shatters. You give her a peck on the forehead -- and she gives you a final, loving kiss. It lingers. And then you part, reclaiming your seat and slumping down with a pained sigh.
Emma winces, but says nothing.
Time passes as the two of you compose yourselves in that silence, until Emma speaks again. This time, the two of you turn to politics.
"The People view me as your consort still -- I have no intention of going against that narrative. I still wish to serve as your regent and Communications Minister. I think- I think we can still be professional with this."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 13, 2020, 08:40:29 am
Do we tell her about Iyal?
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 08:47:54 am
...
...I'm sorry, φοῖνιξ. I tried to give you the quiet life-- the happy life. I really did.
"The Thorntons. They are here? Safe?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 09:05:49 am
Emma nods, "We got back just in time to see you get hauled out of the hovercraft. It was hard to see the old house go, but considering the circumstances, it was probably for the better."
"What do you mean?"
"Oh..." Emma hesitates, rubbing at her eyes, composing herself. "We detonated the Thornton reactors. Our villa has never fallen to enemy control, and that won't change, even if all of our lands lay abandoned."
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:16:22 am
I--
...
...I'm sorry, φοῖνιξ. I tried to give you the quiet life-- the happy life. I really did.
I'm not going to say "I told you so," but it seems Phoenix has no taste for abandonment.
Perhaps, perhaps, I should have approved of your plan to give up this world for Emma, and I cannot shut out that thought... but it also reminds me of the people Phoenix would be leaving without an [Archangel] who promised to protect them.
You, fellow advisor, seem to be driven by loyalty. I am too - loyalty and caution are the highest values I learned from my short life... lessons driven home by its untimely end. But we are tied to this planet as well as Emma, for these people trust us. We must not betray that trust. For we are loyal.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 13, 2020, 09:23:31 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 09:25:28 am
I'm not going to say "I told you so," but it seems Phoenix has no taste for abandonment.
It was a choice, youngling. It was not my choice to make. Not my place to condemn. The thing had to be offered.
...
...there is one last question I must ask. It is not a pleasant question.
If in truth, φοῖνιξ, we perish on the battlefield one day-- if the Crusaders bring us home to Stormmont, a corpse-- do we wish for Emma to take up our Essence? The full strength of our will?
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:37:41 am
And my fellow advisors' thoughts on the Woman of Nature's question: shall we tell Emma about Iyal? I for one see no reason not to.
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 09:51:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 10:03:37 am
"So, you realized that was Iyal?"
"Yes. She has all the markers of an Empyreal, and I can feel her will when she isn't hiding it." Emma nods, gently.
"Her real name is Cephiela of Lavoisier. She helped knit my chest back together."
"Cheap price to repay her betrayal." Emma snarks, but then sighs. "Sorry. I should trust your trust, I suppose."
"[She's bound by oath in High Empyrean. She will do me no harm until her master arrives and orders it so.]"
Emma looks thoughtful, staring at you in silence. She gives a tight nod.
"I was hoping you would approve a trip to the Outlands -- so that we may recover her voidcraft."
[16]"Only if you consent to a full escort. They'll be ordered to withdraw you immediately if anything -- and I mean anything, could possibly harm you." Emma compromises, and she catches your gaze, offering gently, "You mean more to these people than you realize." She gives a pause, before continuing, "When you get back, you'll have to make a speech addressing the rumors about your death. We cannot show you in a wheelchair, so you'll have to stand. I'll probably hang off your arm to give you some support." Emma doesn't look pleased at the notion, so fresh after her own announcement.
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 10:16:24 am
Nod. "Thank you. There's some machinery on that ship, something to repair minds... I need it, I think. For sanity."
Post by: King Zultan on May 13, 2020, 10:38:40 am
Nod. "Thank you. There's some machinery on that ship, something to repair minds... I need it, I think. For sanity."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 11:15:46 am
"I do too." The two of you share a grin, and Emma takes deep breath, turning to head out the door. "I suppose I should introduce you to your Ministers." With that, and with one final, long look at you, she calls the assorted crowd back in. You recognize a null amongst them, by lack of will alone, but the rest are all human.
When they enter, they face you and give a gentle bow of the head, then, Emma introduces each by turn, seemingly at random.
Dan Hoganson, the Minister of State. A tall, bulky man, loaded with muscles, bearded and pale. His hair is blond -- obviously a descendent from a Family, judging by the hook nose and thin lips. He wears a neutral expression and gives another bow of his head in deferential silence. He wears a formal Scholar's uniform, which strains against the muscle.
Lacey Sterling, the Minister of Religion. Short, stocky, chubby, with the tannish brown skin of the common folk of SEED's city-state. A mop of sandy brown hair is in a tight bun, and she wears a preacher's robe. Her bow is far more ornate, more deferential, and her smile reaches her eyes. "Its a pleasure to meet you in person, Mother Pheonix. I hope I am worthy of your appointment to this prestigious position!"
Mickey MacGruder, Minister of Agriculture. Another man with ruddy skin, of average build and height. A pair of glasses hanging from a cord looped around the back of his head. He gives a bow-- he is not wearing a uniform, rather a stained denim jumpsuit. "Mother Pheonix." He politely intones.
Nettle Armsmith, Minister of Industry. A child of SEED through and through. She's short, stocky, but her brown skin is paler than average. Burn scars trace themselves up her muscled, coiled arms. She gives a bow of her head, but gives no response.
"I'm Guardian Minister Lauren Mack. You knew my father." Lauren interrupts Emma, who pauses to look at her with exasperation. Lauren approaches you, standing tall. She's svelte, wiry, with long black hair and an air of confidence. "Its a pleasure to meet you." An older man hangs at her shoulder, adorned in the same dull brown uniform of the Guardians as her. Their badges, clad in leather, hang from their coat pockets. She is one of the few in the room carrying a gun, and a pair of bioplastic handcuffs.
Tiffany Mellone, is introduced, when Emma gets back into the groove of her spiel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. An Outlander; tall, wiry, with tan skin and reddish brown hair. She has sharp features, and eyes that examine you quickly, before looking pointedly elsewhere. The knife at her Crusader Uniform's belt helps you to realize this too -- it's carved in their runes. "Mother Pheonix."
Laurence Geoyde, Minister of Trade and Finance. He's a stressed looking man, pale and balding, tucked into a too-tight suit. He gives a tight bow of his head, clutching at his paperwork tightly. "Mother Pheonix. An honor."
Valerie 'Val' Foster, Minister of Health. A short woman, with a shaved head and a tight smile. Her eyes linger on your chest, on the patchwork of carbon fiber that peeks beneath the bandages. She bows her head when she's introduced, stating calmly, "You're singlehandedly pioneering our medical research without even trying, I hope you know."
You can't help but laugh at that. Val grins.
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 11:25:21 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 11:34:00 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 01:39:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 01:50:17 pm
"No, they cannot. No stress. No combat. No official duties besides standing in front of a crowd and smiling. Not until you're completely healed. That," Here Emma gives a reproachful glance to Lacey, "Is what we all agreed on during the first meeting. Everything is doing just fine."
Lacey looks sheepish, about to protest, but Hoganson puts a hand on her shoulder and shakes his head.
Cephie lingers in the background, eyes scanning faces and features plainly. "I think we should get ready for our trip."
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 01:53:16 pm
We'd best be on our way.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 13, 2020, 01:56:08 pm
"...thanks, Emma. For-- for everything."yes
We'd best be on our way.
Get to the hovercraft
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 02:15:07 pm
+1"...thanks, Emma. For-- for everything."yes
We'd best be on our way.
Get to the hovercraft
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 02:55:07 pm
"So, how did it go? It seems like she let yo--"
"She said we can no longer be lovers."
"Oh. Oh shit." For once in the entire time you've truly known her, Cephiela gives you peace and quiet.
Emerging into the hovercraft pad bay, you find it completely empty, besides for the waiting hovercraft and the escort. A few Crusaders salute as you are brought on to the craft, stepping in with you as Cephie gives out the coordinates for where she hid her ship. Its in a mountain range, in the Outlands, an eight hour trip.
"We'll be back faster, though."
You nod, lapsing into silence along with your Crusader Guards.
The hovercraft lifts off the ground, and begins to accelerate away from the setting sun.
"[Do you want to talk about it, Pheobe?]" Cephie asks, after some time.
"[No.]"
"[Alright. Hey, ask a question-- you like asking questions. The most curious Ascended, that's you!]" Cephie is trying to lift your mood, acting cheerful and chipper.
"[I'm alright.]" You state, a little bluntly, and Cephie nods, settling down into her seat, examining the Crusaders.
It's well past midnight when the hovercraft sets down into a valley -- and you look down from the window, down at the Voidcraft that sits nudged into it. It's gleaming white, ringed with gold arches. Black machinery is framed between the bisected top and bottom. The contours of the vessel flow organically, resembling a bird of prey with wide swooping wings. It's bigger than the smaller cargo hover crafts, sitting at roughly [130 meters] from tip to tail. Cast in a gold-colored material, in High Empyrean, are the words 'Maja Drifter'. Beneath it is a complex, almost fractal barcode.
You step slowly out of the hovercraft, gingerly on legs that feel wobbly. You do not fall, instead, you take in the vessel. "Noble Design Pattern, I see." Cephie beams you a smile at your statement, nodding. "It's huge for a Lander."
"That's what I said, but nooo. You have to fill it to the brim with useless shit."
The Nobility preferred luxury, comfort, and automation. Repairs were usually handled by the chained AI on board, but if something went truly wrong, the entire ship would have to be turned into scrap. They say that each is handcrafted by a team of Ascended Shipwrights -- so no modular components, no improvised repairs, barely any armor, energy-draining heavy shields, and they weren't the fastest ships in the Empyre, by any means. But it looks pretty, and that's all that matters.
Cephie keys in a code to let the two of you inside.
Luxurious could not begin to describe the inside of the vessel. The walls inside are a smooth white, broken up by abstract reliefs of gold, jade, and platinum mounted on the walls. There are a lot of empty surfaces -- shelves, but they aren't sealed off. Cephie catches you looking, stating, bluntly, "The Nobles filled this entire place with the most absolute worthless crap. No concern for if the generators cut off."
There are also way too many sharp edges for a proper Voidcraft, where one of the leading causes of death is head trauma from tripping, but Cephiela has put soft foam down on all the edges to round them off. And the layout-- the layout reminds you more of a cabin or a mansion as opposed to a proper Voidcraft. A fireplace switches on, crackling away with warmth. Built-in couches line it. You hobble through, noticing the engine room would have laid open and bare to the world, were it not for thick, heavy leaded panels sealing it off. "No safety precautions for if anything went wrong." She calls.
The engine hums to life as you investigate the four cryo pods and the two behavior pods. Cephie approaches, eying the pods, "Well, welcome to my home. Those behavior modification pods are designed for Ascended. You don't have to worry about using your will. It'll cut it off."
With a heavy sigh, Cephie slumps on one of the built-in couches around the fire, stretching out languidly. "We're heading back now. We've got four hours to kill. I've got a library -" She gestures to a data-pad sitting on one of the couches, "Its got some videos loaded on it - if it asks for you a password, don't mess with it, is all I ask." You raise your brow, and she grins. A small robot, about hip tall, emerges from one of the walls via a small passageway.
"[Madam Cephiela, and Guest, would you enjoy some wine or alcohol for your trip? We have Ascended brands for you to sample if you so choose.]"
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 05:22:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 05:51:24 pm
[10-5] You throw it back without regard, and Cephie breaks out into a sharp laugh, much to your embarrassment. The wine burns as it goes down, and your head swims. Your skin warms, and you don't need a mirror to tell you that your skin is already flush. "This wine is designed for our kind -- it actually gets you drunk, Pheobe." Cephie giggles, taking a small sip of her own.
"Oh."
"There's a food assembler nearby -- if you call out to the AI, it will produce whatever you want. Literally. Whatever." Cephie lifts a finger, "Can I get a Malkovian Apple, please, Ay Aɪ." The robot hurries to her side, a white, shining apple splotched with black in its hand. Cephie takes it, and takes a bite, revealing the black inside.
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 05:56:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 07:38:47 pm
Your meal comes out first, set out on a clean, pristine plate. It's steaming hot -- but incredibly simple. No gravy, no sauce, just a piece of rare meat on a plate, with nutrient dust coating atop it. You take a bite. It's delicious. Soft, slightly chewy, more like eating a pate than a steak -- it's slightly off. Something isn't quite right. It's full of umami, full of juiciness, but it seems almost one dimensional. Its the perfect piece of bug meat. But it isn't.
You shrug away your doubts then finish off the piece of steak. Cephie scoops the last bit of pasta and tomato sauce into her mouth. Taking a napkin, she scrubs at the red on her mouth before asking, "Still hungry?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 07:44:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 07:45:44 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 07:47:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 07:47:54 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 07:48:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 07:49:45 pm
Cephie laughs, shaking her head. "I don't have the DRMS for that -- this only has the household item package and the unlimited meal DRMS. Thank god."
She takes a sip of her wine, before stating, "Its because its...not real? If you ordered the same thing, the steak would taste -exactly- the same. There isn't a chef grilling it, there isn't an animal grazing on alien grass under a shining sun. Someone told me imperfections are what make things taste better."
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 07:51:34 pm
Nanotechnology... like the Plague. Can Cephie's technology fabricate something designed to kill Plague nanites?
And still curious as to your reasoning, advisor.
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 07:53:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 07:58:31 pm
"And of course, only Nobles can pay the fees for all but the most basic of tools. Hells, the licensing fee for having one of these printers is exorbitant."
"And yeah, I think so. It prints out molecules."
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 08:01:35 pm
You've a galaxy to sample, Phoenix-of-Sol-- pick something you like!
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:05:49 pm
And speaking of war...
"Cephie, is this fabricator programmable at all? You are away from this corporation; can you not rig up some way to crack its handicaps? We have evidence suggesting that the Plague is an emergent organism, a self-perpetuating infection of this technology - a swarm of communicating 'nanites.'
So if we could design a nanite programmed to destroy - to kill - the Plague's tiny infectious agents... but designing it will be only one half of the problem. The other half is production. And this device could solve that. It wouldn't produce enough for some autonomous Plague archenemy but the limited amounts it produces could be used to kill the plague in select individuals."
Though I wonder if we could get some algae mats to churn out nanites...
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:14:30 pm
"The Plague used to do that. Back before the Emperor infected it with a logic virus. Entire worlds would just vanish. So, let's reintroduce that ability to it, see what happens." You frown, taking a sip of your wine, swirling it in the glass again.
"If you tamper with the printer, a chained AI renders it useless, and you get sent a hefty bill. Second time, you get hauled off to the courts. If it breaks, it self-repairs or summons something to repair it."
I don't know. There's too many choices!
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:18:19 pm
And yes, yes, we have only just found out what the entire Empyre knows, but we've gone native, remember?" Jokingly: "You can cut us a little slack."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:20:53 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:23:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 08:26:22 pm
This isn't going anywhere. The Empyre would have tried this already.
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:30:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:31:01 pm
"Nanites as weapons are-- hard to control. If we dumped a hoard on a bunch of enemies, and they did not replicate or grow, then what's the difference between using them and a conventional weapon? Besides cost and energy. Nanites aren't easy to program, and if we screw up, there could be a major disaster that we cannot stop."
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:35:57 pm
Not mention even if they aren't a [silver bullet], the Plague nanites will still have to waste time dealing with the foreign bodies. A [Doberman bomb, time-waster, victory-in-numbers] approach. Meanwhile, the attacked areas of the Plague network will fall apart, its individual nanites busied."
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 08:36:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:37:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 08:43:01 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:45:15 pm
And while these machines are [closed-source, handicapped], we've got something else that churns out intricate molecular level devices, in fact that is literally its very purpose in life, and has been doing so before humans walked Old Terra: the algae mats. If we cannot learn to speak the high-level language of these machines, we can have a try at the ancient language of these little plants."
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 08:48:16 pm
We are not so different from the Plague, recall. A machine swarm purpose-built to kill it-- what could that do to us, should the Plague take it?
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:51:25 pm
.. perhaps the cube that is SEED's final gift has some technology appropriate for this.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 08:52:23 pm
[16] "That...that could do a lot of damage, especially if the Plague doesn't adapt fast enough. But nature is a far more fickle beast than even the Plague. Those Algae vats have caused a lot of damage to worlds that didn't keep them maintained properly. I heard one story of the algae leaking into the sea of a world -- it trapped the entire hydrosphere up into itself. This is the equivalent of trying to stop a nuclear bomb exploding by exploding it with another nuclear bomb. And organic matter is far easier for the Plague to corrupt."
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 08:57:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 08:59:46 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:02:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 09:02:47 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:05:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 09:08:16 pm
"But let me state this: Your people do not have integrated circuits yet. They do not have superalloys, or super pure chemical refining. I haven't seen a single robot or computer since I landed. The nano-printer will not work if we try to alter it. How are we to create nano weapons when your people are only just now figuring out radio technology?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 09:12:46 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:14:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 09:14:59 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:16:28 pm
Sigh. "What's that old [chestnut]? 'A little learning is a dangerous thing'."
+1
An apt description of my... youthful speculations.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 09:19:21 pm
You quote the old adage, taking another gulp of wine. You feel a bit more drunk, and lounge more comfortably on the cushioned sofas.
"It's a good train of thought -- " Cephie pauses, staring across at you, "That was an Ancestor's line of questioning, wasn't it?"
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:24:23 pm
I don't know why she's asking, so I don't know what a direct answer will mean to her. Better find out.
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 09:25:31 pm
It's a natural question. We're... not exactly the most consistent folk.
"Mm. They put up quite the cacophony sometimes."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 09:37:08 pm
"You're adorable-- some would consider it a little rude, but I'll forgive you."
"They talk a lot sometimes."
[7] "You don't have to listen to them, you know. It's your life. Mine only pop in occasionally, or when I ask them to."
"I know -- I'm not...uh good at talking, I guess, so its easier to let them do it for me. Sorry."
"They're probably the closest thing to parents you've had, especially if Alphira is gone. Don't worry too much about it." Cephie takes a sip of her wine, and you take a gulp of your's, finishing it. She finally notes your flushed face and inebriated state -- "And I think you've had enough to drink."
"What? Come on-- that was my second glass!"
"Yes, and you're used to the crap made for humans-- oh don't look so glum." Cephie protests suddenly at your frown, taking your empty glass and passing it to the automaton, "Hey, ask your Ancestors what their favorite type of [ice cream] is."
"You just did."
"Oh gods in all the heavens, you let them actively listen!?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 09:41:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 09:44:26 pm
...
[Mint chocolate chip!]
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:44:42 pm
Dear me-- you are drunk.
...
[Mint chocolate chip!]
We agree on this much at least.
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 09:46:01 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 09:57:01 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 10:00:31 pm
"Mint chocolate chip." You murmur, and the AI listens -- and fails. Cephie bursts out into giggles when the automaton brings you a bowl of warm green cream, spotted with chocolate chips. You almost bust through the mesh across your chest when you do the same -- its only Cephie's willpower that stops it from turning into a severe medical emergency.
"Two bowls of mint chocolate chip ice cream served at [eight degrees Fahrenheit]." Cephie calls when she recovers from her laughing fit. The AI obeys, and two, perfect bowls of ice cream are brought out to you. It's soft enough to scoop and tastes like heaven. By the end of it, the automaton is carrying away all the bowls in the ship, while you lounge heavily in the cushions. And you, daresay, are now a connoisseur in all manners of molecularly crafted ice creams. Chocolate, vanilla, apple, peach, even cotton candy.
Alphira never ate ice cream before -- I feel like she never really left her ship to explore the worlds she conquered with Alphias.
You opine as much to Cephie, who gives a nod, picking up her data-pad and tapping a few buttons with her long fingers. "She didn't. I read an article when I was doing research to hunt her that the bounty posting was the first time a lot of people actually saw her face. It's kinda sad, if you ask me. She burned her entire way across the galaxy but never truly realized what she had."
A monitor forms across from you, panels lifting away into the ceiling, "We've got two hours left -- want to watch a movie? I've got all of the Galaxy's greatest hits from twenty years ago loaded up on this thing. Tragedies, comedies, comedy, romances, sagas, horro-- that one is off the list. Adventure, historical, slice of life, animated..." She lists them off.
Another thing she never experienced...which is best, o' wise elders of ancient wisdom?
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 10:05:40 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 13, 2020, 10:08:08 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 10:18:23 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 13, 2020, 10:30:01 pm
History is fine. I doubt there'll be much history in the history... but history is fine.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 13, 2020, 10:36:55 pm
Cephie nods, leaning back on the sofa, fingers drifting across the data-pad, and you watch the mirrored screen on the wall instead. It's amusing to note that several of them are related to your line."Now, I'm going to filter out the ones that involve your Line, if that's okay."
"Is...is there a lot of them?" You question, confused, slightly embarrassed at the thought.
"Oh, gods yes. A lot of them are so horribly dramatized though. Your Ancestors would be offended. And don't get me started about the so-called documentaries about the Pirate King...all of them are propaganda hit pieces. He ate babies, he was a cannibal, the pirates only followed him because he was a Plague Lord..."
"This ones pretty good -- its about the pirates before the Empyre. They love their gore and sex in it, though." The title she's hovering over is one titled 'The Time of Chaos: Pirates of The Void.'
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 10:38:58 pm
"Why not."
Another note on comedies: try as I might, Phoenix, I cannot picture you laughing. The image seems absurd. No offense. Certainly Cephie has no trouble doing so, though she seems to snicker often at ignorance or inexperience rather than in true mirth.
Hmph. Cephie is someone I want to like, but she herself is the main obstacle to that trust; she puts me on guard. I will have to settle for not underestimating her knowledge.
Oddly, Cephie never elaborated on her alarm at the thought of us constantly listening through you. Despite her apparent agitation.
Post by: ZBridges on May 13, 2020, 10:54:01 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 13, 2020, 11:02:49 pm
"What's a plague lord?"
+1
Better idea. Curse my tendency to ramble.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 14, 2020, 08:32:20 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 09:10:01 am
You grin and nod. The video is good -- its really interesting. It shows the life of 'pirates' in the ages before the Unification of Time. Fierce honor systems, a culture based on pillaging and slavery, and brutal infighting. That to maintain their culture and nation against the rigors of time dilation, that they brought everyone with them. Their fleets were massive, carrying the entire population of these isolated nations leaving none behind to be separated from. But the rest is very similar to the lives of pirates these days; Corpses were recycled into food. A strict honor system, lest it all fall into anarchy, with harsh lessons if it failed.
The dramatization ends with the female lead and male lead meeting in one of the throne rooms. The man sits on the throne, unarmed, and does nothing while the female lead, an elevated slave, kills him to avenge her family. Unknown to her, he had rigged the entire room to depressurize. While their daughter watches on, the two kill each other and end up getting sucked out into the Void.
The engine dies down -- just as the daughter in the video is made the leader of the fleet -- and it seems like she will be a more brutal ruler than her father.
"Well, that was depressing." Cephie states.
"It was actually accurate." You murmur, rubbing at your bleary eyes.
"Yeah, I forgot I was watching it with the Pirate Queen."
You grin.
"Why -did- they continue to be pirates though? They found a SEEDworld without any inhabitants. They could have had a good life."
[-]"Freedom. Adventure. It would have tied them to one world -- why do that, when you can have hundreds?"
"I guess, yeah. That makes sense." Cephie nods, stretching to her feet. "We've landed if you want to head out. If you want to sleep over, you could grab breakfast before using the pod."
[5] "Sure."
"The guest bedroom is just down this hall. After I get out, you should try the bath -- it's amazing."
You nod, picking up the datapad and scrolling through the library of videos and books. Eventually, you rise, heading into the fully furnished bathroom to run a fresh bath for yourself -- you keep your torso dry, but wash everywhere else. The water is actually hot for you and stays hot, small bubbles rising up from the bottom. You dry off, dress, and head to bed. You crawl into the silk sheets, and drift off, comfortable.
[10][14] You don't dream.
When you awaken the next morning and stumble out of the spare bedroom. Cephie is nowhere to be found.
"[Good morning Pheonix, guest of Cephelia. You have been registered for this landing craft's access. It is a balmy mountain day, with high temperatures reaching [-10 degrees Fahrenheit]. What would you like for breakfast this morning?]"
Yeah, I guess you're right...I just...really haven't had a chance to relax...I need to focus on the job though, yeah. Sorry. You feel slightly guilty, murmuring, "Can I just have some nutrient paste."
You eat the bowl of dull, bland food, returning it to the automaton, and approach the pods.
"Do you have any cognitive-behavioral modification therapy programs, for conquering fears and anxieties?"
"I have three. Gentle, Normal, and Rapid."
Post by: Eschar on May 14, 2020, 09:24:32 am
I'd go with Normal.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 14, 2020, 09:49:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 14, 2020, 10:22:39 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 11:15:05 am
--and the world stretches out in white. A soft chair settles behind you, and a woman appears, sitting across from you.
What follows for the next hour is a discussion of your life. The simulated therapist is...incredibly accepting as you describe it to her. Her prompting questions are gentle, but she doesn't let you wander on to tangents from the line of questioning. She keeps you focused. With a nod, she eventually begins to ask you questions about your previous experiences with the Plague.
[18] You're honest. You explain, hesitantly, at first, each of your encounters, when you're finished, and feeling drained, the AI asks you a question.
"Would you say each of your experiences with the Plague has caused you physical and mental trauma?"
"Y-yes. I guess so." You murmur, fidgeting awkwardly.
"You view these as defeats?"
"Yeah."
"Why?"
You take pause, looking across to her as it begins to explain, "You've survived more encounters with the second most dangerous form of life in the galaxy than perhaps anyone else. You've won, each and every time. You survived -- or is that not enough?"
"W-what? Of course, it's enough."
"Is it?"
[20] "It isn't." You admit, quietly. "I...I want to be perfect. I want to be the strongest. I need to..." You trail off -- Pheonix trails off, then fidgets.
"Go on. I already know what you're thinking."
"I need to make my Ancestors proud." Unbidden, tears begin to drip from her face, and your connection to the visual-audio feed waivers, "They've done so much. They were so powerful -- I need to live up to that. And I can't --"
"Not yet."
"W-what?"
"The amount of Willpower suppression dust within this system is immense. Based on your potential, you could easily overpower that if your emotional state was compromised." The therapist shows you a graph -- and after a point, it's exponential. "You may feel you have to live up to their standards, to their strength, but, as I'm sure they will tell you, you are already stronger than they possibly could have been in their first three year--" It leans back, pausing, "I do not agree with your self-diagnosis. You do not fear the Plague any more than a human should. Judging from your brain scans, however, you have a mild case of memetic Plague exposure. It's an echo, and it reacts to certain stimuli. Nearness. Hostile intentions towards the Plague."
"C-could you explain?"
"Yes. During combat with the Plague, you interact with what you call their 'willpower'. Certain strains inject information through this field, that, when they interact with an Ascended or nano-augmented individuals, they infect them. The data eventually forms enough will and intelligence that it acts as a parasite, affecting neurotransmitters to cause hallucinations, nightmares, even, as you mentioned, stroke and hemorrhage."
"How do I remove it?" You ask, eager.
"You cannot. Eventually, when you reduce your exposure to the Plague, the data will become corrupted. Then inert. Eventually, your body will recognize it as a foreign body. If you do not limit your exposure, however, it will become worse. Rage. Anger. Hallucinations. Self-destructive tendencies. Wishing for further exposure through combat. The individual that you know, Eric, has all the symptoms of such a memetic Infection. This 'Nightmare'."
You give a slow nod, relaxing in your seat.
"You do, however, have an intense fear of failure, one that affects your decision-making capabilities to a harmful degree. I would recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for that. You're also beginning to manifest the symptoms of a Messiah complex."
[12] "I'm trying not to let that last one happen."
"It is not what can be called a full-blown mental illness, as it does not interfere with your day to day existence, especially on this world -- but it could become a social issue when you begin to interact with the wider Empyre. But as for today -- our session is at an end. Madam Cephelia has returned, and we've diagnosed the damages to your mental state. Any further questions from you or your Ancestors?"
"I'm good --"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 14, 2020, 11:28:39 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 11:36:33 am
Post by: Eschar on May 14, 2020, 11:39:28 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 11:48:14 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 14, 2020, 01:44:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 01:52:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 14, 2020, 03:29:33 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 14, 2020, 03:43:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 03:53:20 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 14, 2020, 04:01:40 pm
Φοίβη... you never needed to make us proud. We are proud. Always.
You've been-- a daughter to us. How could we be anything less?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 14, 2020, 04:07:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 14, 2020, 04:23:36 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 14, 2020, 04:28:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 14, 2020, 04:59:02 pm
A sharp pain withdraws from your neck, the liquid flowing with a trickle of your blood. It drains slowly, and you cough and sputter painfully, feeling the tinges of pain that draw from your chest. When you catch your breath, you exit the pod, glancing at the internal clock presented -- its been an hour. It felt like far longer.
You dress after wiping off as much of the gunk as possible, pulling your clothes back on. With a pained sigh, you hobble into the living quarters of the ship. Cephie sits, idling, writing out an official looking document. "Went well I hope." You nod.
"Good -- here, try this." She indicates a plate sealed with a thin coating of plastic. Its a plate of rice smothered in a bean-filled tomato sauce. Exotic spices assault your nose when the steam lifts. "Bean curry on rice. I thought you might like the spice. Emma loved it."
"Thanks." You eat in silence, contemplating your therapy session.
"Emma needs you to perform a speech for the masses sometime soon. Said to let her know over the radio." Cephie eventually relays, filling out the title of her document, '[Steelwork Leadership and Interim Government Profiles]'.
What's the plan?
Post by: ZBridges on May 14, 2020, 05:40:19 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 14, 2020, 06:29:49 pm
Post by: King Zultan on May 15, 2020, 07:40:20 am
We might as well just give the speech now. Are there any major points Emma wants us to hit?
Also, ask her why William wasn't at the minister meeting. Is he still head of Internal Affairs?+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 15, 2020, 09:39:16 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 10:21:23 am
["Just that you're alive, doing fantastic, thanks for asking. Quell those pesky rumors that you're dead, basically."] Emma responds after a delay.
["Hey, where's William, by the way?]"
The line is silent. Then, ["I'll tell you after the speech. I'll meet you at the Amphitheatre at [1600]."]
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 10:25:50 am
["Understood. I will see you then."]
Go see Mitch if we have extra time.
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 10:31:07 am
Mitch is in Emma's care now. It's... probably best he stay there. We've a speech to work out.
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 10:33:12 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 10:37:08 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 10:38:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 10:40:29 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 10:54:17 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 10:59:47 am
...
We... can ask, I suppose. Either now, or (preferably) after our speech. But I'm inclined to let sleeping dogs lie.
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 11:02:57 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 11:27:28 am
The question remains: where does the Barker go when we can't be around for it?
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 11:31:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 11:37:39 am
A barker bites. It is a bad idea to take the field against the Plague with Mitch.
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 11:39:15 am
Is Mitch immune to Plague infection? Are we going to have to put down our own dog?
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 11:39:43 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 11:42:27 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 11:46:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 11:51:44 am
A family that does gun running and drug smuggling isn't that -bad- in the grand scheme of the Empyre. That family's previous prosperity was insured by you killing a rival family off for them...and you've ascended two of their members as your kindred. A straight and narrow path...is kinda hard to walk at this point. Especially if you chose to make an enemy of the Nobles in the endgame.
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 11:59:35 am
Post by: Eschar on May 15, 2020, 12:01:03 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 15, 2020, 12:07:03 pm
I don;t see the problem with Mitch staying with Emma. We have a war to fight. Anyway, we should be thinking about what to say during the speech
Post by: Eschar on May 15, 2020, 12:16:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 12:26:18 pm
["Emma out."] Is all she replies, and you finish off the plate of curried beans on rice. The Automaton takes the plate, and Cephie gives you a nod as you make to leave.
"Don't be a stranger! I had fun last night." She calls after you, as you take unsteady steps out on to the landing pads. First things first -- finding and petting Mitch. Playing with the beast is out of the question. He enjoys physical activities more than anything, and you've the feeling that might rip open your chest --
Speaking of which...
[10][12] You wince as some of your inner flesh and organs work themselves back together, having to come to a lean on a hovercraft as the pain nearly forces you into unconsciousness. You take a deep breath, feeling your insides settle themselves more comfortably against real flesh instead of carbon mesh. The wound across your chest, across your muscles, is still there, but you feel more steady.
Mitch's room, you come to learn, has not been moved. You also find out that she's assigned Thornton servants to bring him food and clean up after him. You head to the room in question, finding Mitch laying on a mattress, chewing on a nutrient cube. Two strong-looking young men lounge nearby. They dip their heads politely, before returning to enjoy what looks like a makeshift game of cards. Mitch finishes eating before he bounds over to you. He's up to your thigh now, with feet two sizes too big for his body. His eyes, you note, have turned a pale shade of blue. His fur, as well, is changing colors -- a rusty red merging with the natural colors of the wall. The pattern swirls around him.
He's also starting to drool everywhere -- and after a playful nip of your hand that draws blood, he contents himself with being pet.
You end up petting him for a while, looking out the great window that faces a cliff. It's not the best view, of course, but there's sunlight for him to lounge in. He chews on a few bones that lay scattered around, crunching down hard on them with his teeth, devouring marrow and fragment alike.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Post by: Eschar on May 15, 2020, 12:32:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 12:32:46 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 15, 2020, 12:34:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 12:39:28 pm
"Good boy, Mitch. Protect Emma and her family always, okay?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 05:58:08 pm
I have given my word that I will defeat this Plague, that I will rid it from this world and bring about the Paradise. As SEED has promised, so have i! If there are any foolish enough that think the word of their God can be so easily broken by trivial injuries, let them speak now. Let me hear your arguments.
...A nice pause in the middle, let my will reach out and cow anybody...
I have not only come before you to call out these liars, these naysayers but to inform you that our war is going well. We have reclaimed many Industrial Districts and removed many heretics from their positions of ill-gotten power. Surely you have seen the results of these wars? All foes, Demon and Human alike cannot stand against our combined will, they cannot stand against the true ruler of this world. As it has been, so it shall be again. We rise from the ashes of our enemies, stronger, determined to reach our Paradise.
I thank you for your time today. Hail Pheonix!
You itch behind Mitch's ear, and they perk up when you talk to him. The bone he chews on gives way with a sickening crunch, his tongue digging into it to pull out more marrow.
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 06:20:09 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 06:27:07 pm
...
Perfect.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 06:41:32 pm
Anything you want me to do until the speech?
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 07:39:29 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 07:54:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 15, 2020, 09:37:20 pm
Eventually, the time arises, and you emerge from your meditation. After you double-check your appearance in the mirror, you make your way to the amphitheater. Emma is waiting for you backstage. She smiles when she sees you, but it's forced. She looks exhausted, her usually clean and shiny hair disheveled. There are bags beneath her eyes.
"Ready?"
You nod, breathing out a sigh and composing yourself. Squaring your shoulders, setting your jaw, and loosening your body. A crowd stands on the other side of the stage door, packing the amphitheater to the elevator, as usual.
[15 vs. 14] There isn't fire in your words, but there is will. Your fury is cold, detached, and your willpower sweeps over the front of the crowd.
[18 vs. 12] "My citizens, I come before you today to assure you that rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated. That I am alive and well, no worse for the wear from my combat with the wretched Plague. Do I seem ill? Do I seem injured? The people who have spread these false rumors should be ashamed. Our culture values the importance of honesty, the importance of holding one's tongue -- yet these people have the gall to spread falsehood! To lie -- to slander, to lead you to the belief that Pheonix of Sol could be so easily killed. That the unholy Plague could ever truly harm me. That the light of your holy star, your god, could be so easily extinguished."
The crowd gives a cheer, but you don't let the smile you want to wear come to your lips, keeping it set in a tight scowl as you lift a hand in the air to quiet the crowd.
[11 vs. 3]"I have given my word that I will defeat this Plague, that I will rid it from this world and bring about Paradise. As SEED has promised, so have I! If there are any foolish enough that think the word of their God can be so easily broken by trivial injuries, let them speak now. Let me hear your arguments. They are none, are there? Because these fools are heretics, baseless lairs, tricked and misled. Worse than heretics, they seek to halt progress on the Great Work! Denounce them. Denounce them as you have done the Demons and malcontents for years."
[6 vs. 1]"I have not only come before you to call out these liars, these naysayers but to inform you that our war is going well. We have reclaimed many Industrial Districts and removed many heretics from their positions of ill-gotten power. Surely you have seen the results of these wars? All foes, Demon and Human alike cannot stand against our combined will, they cannot stand against the true ruler of this world. As it has been, so it shall be again. We rise from the ashes of our enemies, stronger, determined to reach our Paradise. I thank you for your time today. Hail Pheoni--"
"Mother Pheonix!" Somebody calls, breaking through the rapt silence as the sound of a scuffle echoes through the hall, "Mother Pheonix--" Three people break through the crowd, dragging a thin young man, who struggles and fights against them.
They throw him down roughly in front of the stage, circling around him. A sinewy man with a single arm calls up to you from the crowd. "One of the Malcontents, Mother! One of the Liars! He's been spreading falsehood about you for weeks! Talking slander!"
[15 vs. 13]"I'm innocent, I swear!" He cries. He's not being truthful with you.
Post by: ZBridges on May 15, 2020, 09:44:43 pm
In other words, please don't murder this man in front of me.
Post by: Superdorf on May 15, 2020, 10:14:27 pm
"Thank you for bringing this to my attention. He shall be questioned and tried, and if his guilt is true, he shall be punished as dictated by our code of ethics. Know this: we are a nation of laws, and thus you should leave such matters to our professional care. Your peaceful passion inspires me and is a model for our nation."
+1
[Angel] of mercy, for now. We can figure out what to do with the fellow once he's out of the public eye.
Post by: Eschar on May 16, 2020, 07:27:04 am
You're getting better at the talking. More comfortable."Thank you for bringing this to my attention. He shall be questioned and tried, and if his guilt is true, he shall be punished as dictated by our code of ethics. Know this: we are a nation of laws, and thus you should leave such matters to our professional care. Your peaceful passion inspires me and is a model for our nation."
+1
[Angel] of mercy, for now. We can figure out what to do with the fellow once he's out of the public eye.
+1
Don't need our people calling our bluff. But let's not reflect the gods of Old Terra.
Post by: King Zultan on May 16, 2020, 07:57:11 am
+1You're getting better at the talking. More comfortable."Thank you for bringing this to my attention. He shall be questioned and tried, and if his guilt is true, he shall be punished as dictated by our code of ethics. Know this: we are a nation of laws, and thus you should leave such matters to our professional care. Your peaceful passion inspires me and is a model for our nation."
+1
[Angel] of mercy, for now. We can figure out what to do with the fellow once he's out of the public eye.
+1
Don't need our people calling our bluff. But let's not reflect the gods of Old Terra.
Sometimes a little fire and brimstone can be a good thing, but not right now.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 16, 2020, 10:43:29 am
+1+1You're getting better at the talking. More comfortable."Thank you for bringing this to my attention. He shall be questioned and tried, and if his guilt is true, he shall be punished as dictated by our code of ethics. Know this: we are a nation of laws, and thus you should leave such matters to our professional care. Your peaceful passion inspires me and is a model for our nation."
+1
[Angel] of mercy, for now. We can figure out what to do with the fellow once he's out of the public eye.
+1
Don't need our people calling our bluff. But let's not reflect the gods of Old Terra.
Sometimes a little fire and brimstone can be a good thing, but not right now.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 16, 2020, 03:53:39 pm
"Thank you for bringing this to my attention. He shall be questioned and tried, and if his guilt is true, he shall be punished as dictated by our code of ethics. Know this: we are a nation of laws, and thus you should leave such matters to our professional care. Your peaceful passion inspires me and is a model for our nation."
[3 vs 12] The crowd stirs restlessly, conflicted. Some seem to misunderstand the intentions of the Crusaders, pushing back at them as they try to make their way to the crowd, which, meanwhile, has begun to press in on the young man. Cries of 'heretic' and 'traitor are thrown at him. He cowers beneath the surge, his desperation giving way to panic.
Th-they didn't listen.
[6] Your anger suddenly burns hot.
They didn't listen?!
Humans in a crowd become beasts sometimes, unable to listen to reason or logic, or even the speech of their own gods. They press in on the young man, possessed with righteous fury -- one drawing near enough to throw a punch.
[19] But as possessed by their fury as they are, so are you. Shrugging your coat off. You lift the restrictions on your wings, letting them stretch out over the stage in a flash of light. Your long talons forms similarly, red fire twisting around it. You unleash your will. Stretching it forward into the mob, making Them collapse into unsightly piles on the floor. Gracefully, you dismount the stage, starting forward into the now silent crowd. The young man stares as you grab hold of a member of the mob who remains standing. You lift the burly man with a single hand, casting your voice out to the crowd.
[19]"I gave an order. I gave a command. Or do you think yourself so above your God? Do you think you can disobey me without repercussion?" Your voice rattles the gantries, the supports of the ceiling. "KNEEL."
[16] Those in range of your will drop down to their knees involuntarily. Those without also do so, lest they face your continued wrath. Softly, gently, "Or is this what you wanted to see? Hmmh? The wrath of your God stoked into fire?" The man you grip by the collar whimpers. The alleged naysayer stands, staring at the crowd that lies unconscious at his feet in shock.
Post by: ZBridges on May 16, 2020, 05:56:56 pm
Put the man down.
"I hope you have learned a valuable lesson today. Vigilantism will not be tolerated. If you suspect someone of disloyalty, report it to a Crusader. As for you, who spoke ill of me, turn yourself in today. If I have to hunt you down, I will not be lenient."
Post by: Superdorf on May 16, 2020, 06:51:16 pm
*Sigh*
Put the man down.
"I hope you have learned a valuable lesson today. Vigilantism will not be tolerated. If you suspect someone of disloyalty, report it to a Crusader. As for you, who spoke ill of me, turn yourself in today. If I have to hunt you down, I will not be lenient."
+1
Post by: Eschar on May 16, 2020, 07:09:04 pm
But I am sure it will come back to bite us.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 16, 2020, 07:25:08 pm
"I hope you have learned a valuable lesson today. Vigilantism will not be tolerated. If you suspect someone of disloyalty, report it to a Crusader. As for you, who spoke ill of me, turn yourself in today. Not here. Not now. But today. If I have to hunt you down, I will not be lenient." You don't have to raise your voice for the words to carry across the amphitheater. With the man in secure custody, you take the steps up the stage, Emma trailing along behind you quietly.
[13] It isn't until you're up on the gantries before she speaks to you, keeping her earlier promise. You notice her taking a few steps away, her willpower wrapping up around her tightly. Defensively. A twinge of pain, of sadness, stabs at your heart, but you do not question why.
"Do you remember that message you sent to Black Nicky? Your grandmother?"
"Yes."
"She kidnapped the entire squad besides one -- he was sent back without his rank badge -- and his tongue."
[11] You restrain the fury that builds once more, "What?"
"We don't know if the other Crusaders are alive or not. We've been met with silence from her. I sent William to deal with it, but it's rough. Apparently Nicole has a large force of Outlander mercenaries."
Post by: Eschar on May 16, 2020, 07:45:22 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 16, 2020, 07:47:40 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 16, 2020, 07:55:44 pm
"...do you want me to go there, once I'm fit to take the field?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 16, 2020, 08:12:51 pm
["Well, guns or land. Most of the Outlanders are people who either got banished from the 'Holy Land' or descendents of them. Few might be actual Clan Outlanders. They'll probably be the captains or commanders."] Cephie responds, her voice echoing in your head, as you maintain two conversations at once with. Nearly seamlessly, you proudly note.
Post by: Superdorf on May 16, 2020, 08:56:26 pm
["Understood-- thank you."]
"I'll speak with the general on the matter... see what I can work out. I need to catch up on the state of the field anyhow."
"What else do I need to know, taking up the council again?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 16, 2020, 10:06:03 pm
"You're incorrigible." Emma sighs, brushing a stray hair from her eyes. "We've started including alcohol in the Crusader's rations. Isela demanded it for off duty soldiers. Lacey is trying to write sermons for you. We've claimed industrial districts four through seven, and farmland one. There's some issues with production, but the Industry Department is working through it. The Agriculture-- it might be easier if I just called a session for you." Emma admits, catching herself mid-ramble.
Post by: ZBridges on May 16, 2020, 11:08:13 pm
"Please do call a session. Thank you for managing things in my absence. It sounds like you've done an excellent job."
Post by: Superdorf on May 16, 2020, 11:40:43 pm
...fear. Emma feared us just now-- what we might say, what we might do. She need never fear us. Tell her. Tell her.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 12:48:19 am
"Is...is that crazy?" Emma asks, turning to look at you, asking your reassurance. "I-is that crazy for us? For Empyreals?"
You hesitate. "How?"
"Like with that -- the alcohol decision. I dreamed that the Crusaders were being attacked at night while they slept. That they used the bottles on Plague Creatures. That swayed my thinking -- did I make the right choice? Or was I just having a weird nightmare?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 12:55:30 am
Post by: Kashyyk on May 17, 2020, 01:59:26 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 17, 2020, 09:15:57 am
"It's hard to say. I think that several of your visions have been prescient so far. Don't rely on them too much, but let them guide you if you need it."+1
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 09:16:33 am
"You were right about the Leviathan."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 10:31:26 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 10:50:29 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 11:59:47 am
[7] "I...I just can't tell anyone else that except you and William, y'know? I get scared that it's all in my head -- that I'm going crazy. My visions feel more real than my actual life sometimes."
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 01:06:59 pm
"You could talk to Cephie about it. She probably knows more about things like this than I do."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 01:28:22 pm
"Yeah. I guess I could. I'll go call the council. Give me a couple of hours. I'll let you know over radio."
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 03:40:53 pm
"Take care of yourself, hey?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 03:48:05 pm
"...yeah, alright. I'll chase down Isela in the meantime."why are we chasing Isela down? I thought she’s a friend?
"Take care of yourself, hey?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 04:00:48 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 05:01:08 pm
She's our regent now, recall. What happens when we're both away? What happens if neither of us come back?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 05:17:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 05:27:45 pm
Edit: it looks like I got Cephie and Isela confused.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 05:35:49 pm
"Mother Pheonix. I'm glad to see you up and about." Isela offers politely, smiling. Eric doesn't say anything, his willpower twisting uncontrollably, haphazardly.
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 05:42:54 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 05:44:20 pm
"Thank you. It's good to be back among the living. I'm pleased to see that you're doing better as well, Eric. My first question is: what were the results of the mission I was sent on?"
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 05:56:16 pm
"Bad news."
"Fifty percent casualties, roughly two platoons out of the four platoon company died -- either when their hovercrafts were shot down or the attempted evacuation that followed. The Lt was one of the casualties. Two large hovercraft were seized by the enemy."
"Good news?" You ask, glumly.
"Two refineries -- and, thanks to you destroying that Hovercraft, they were unable to follow us back to the Fortress -- meaning that, for the time, we are still secure. And we have the element of surprise."
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 06:07:55 pm
The Plague-- how much can it see through our eyes?
Nod. "And how has the war progressed in my absence?"
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 06:13:39 pm
...an ugly thought occurs to me.+1
The Plague-- how much can it see through our eyes?
Nod. "And how has the war progressed in my absence?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 06:26:54 pm
+1...an ugly thought occurs to me.+1
The Plague-- how much can it see through our eyes?
Nod. "And how has the war progressed in my absence?"
Oh my, you’re right. The plague seems to function as a sort of hive mind. Should we bring this worry up to Isela?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 06:45:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 06:49:37 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 07:07:11 pm
Eric is looking at you intently, just as confused.
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 07:16:06 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 08:37:04 pm
"This is highly classified information, but I think you need it in order to strategize properly. Tell this to no one. An individual who will not be named activated a distress beacon hidden in this fortress. As a result, in 12 years, an offworlder by the name of Magnus will arrive with insurmountable military assets. He will likely destroy the plague, but how his arrival will affect our population is unclear."+1, we will have to explain how the plague got this information, which Awas that we told it. Are we going to need to tell her that the Plague talked to us?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 08:40:41 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 08:47:18 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 17, 2020, 08:53:15 pm
"The individual in question that activated the beacon was an agent of Magnus and did so in an attempt to contain me to this planet. Their orders were to do whatever was necessary in order to contain me, but I don't know what Magnus' motives are. Also, I should tell you that the plague found this information while I was negotiating with it. It was proposing a ceasefire."+1 “It called itself Strain 112, and thinks we are an infection. After the communication, it tried to kill me.”
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 09:00:13 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 09:07:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 09:14:20 pm
Eric is staring at you with the same look. Only his is one of contempt. Of anger. His willpower lashes as he draws himself up.
I...I think this was a bad idea.
Eric steps closer, his fists clenching until they go pale. Isela steps aside, hesitating against his anger. "You... you're nothing but another demon, another plague. I believed in you -- I, I thought you were blessed."
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 09:20:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 09:29:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 09:39:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 17, 2020, 10:09:44 pm
"Well Pheobe?! Answer me?!" Eric is angry, and he pushes at your chest.
Th-this is going to end up like Zachary-- except worse. If we kill him, Isela-- shit--
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 10:17:59 pm
Smile sweetly. "So what do you think, Eric..."
"DO YOU KNOW BETTER THAN A GOD?" Send out our will to cow him and unfurl our wings. Project our voice to painful levels. "I AM THE FLAME OF OLD SOL! MY LINE BLED ENOUGH TO MAKE YOUR SUFFERING SEEM AS NOTHING! WHO ARE YOU TO CHALLENGE MY DIVINE WILL, MORTAL?! KNEEL AND SUBMIT, OR DIE!"
Post by: Superdorf on May 17, 2020, 11:04:11 pm
Spoiler: OOC (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 17, 2020, 11:53:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 18, 2020, 12:28:32 am
I didn't write those words lightly though. This game is breaking me. I need distance.
Post by: Eschar on May 18, 2020, 12:33:36 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 18, 2020, 12:36:24 am
Thank you for everything. I really mean it. Your art was amazing, and made me really happy to see! I also enjoyed your contributions to the narrative.
I'm sorry -- I hope you, and others, do not take insult if I continue.
Post by: Eschar on May 18, 2020, 12:37:42 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 01:02:50 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 18, 2020, 06:14:08 am
Post by: Eschar on May 18, 2020, 07:56:14 am
"SEED was a being beyond the understanding of man. She was all-knowing, kind, and strong. She blessed this world, and the people fortunate enough to live here, and granted them a path into Paradise. Do not speak ill of our God, who sacrificed herself for our survival, but instead marvel at her love and wisdom."
Smile sweetly. "So what do you think, Eric..."
"DO YOU KNOW BETTER THAN A GOD?" Send out our will to cow him and unfurl our wings. Project our voice to painful levels. "I AM THE FLAME OF OLD SOL! MY LINE BLED ENOUGH TO MAKE YOUR SUFFERING SEEM AS NOTHING! WHO ARE YOU TO CHALLENGE MY DIVINE WILL, MORTAL?! KNEEL AND SUBMIT, OR DIE!"
+1
We need to get control of the situation fast.
Though why would Eric assume we are mundane just because there are more of us? Surely there are many angels in Paradise.
Post by: King Zultan on May 18, 2020, 07:57:30 am
Also I have no suggestion that might lessen what the anger that this situation has brought fourth.
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 04:52:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 18, 2020, 05:28:43 pm
[17+5] vs [7+1] Isela looks pale and Eric-- Eric looks like you just punched him in the face. He takes a step back.
[18 vs 1] "Do you know better than a God, Eric?" You take a step forward, unfurling your wings. Your voice is soft, but you're sure its the only thing Eric can hear as he sags. "I am the flame of Old Sol. I lived ten lives -- and in all of them, I've bled enough to make your suffering seem as nothing. Do not challenge my divine will, Eric. Kneel."
His legs give out from under him -- and you step closer, smiling, reveling in your own strength. "...And Eric? If you ever lay a hand on me again, in hostility, I will grind every bone in your arm to dust."
Eric can only nod -- and you give him a gentle pat on the face. You contain your will, your wings, staring down at the man. Isela looks concerned -- surprised, but not angry, not fearful. Curious.
"I-I'm sorry. Sorry, Mother Pheonix. I...I forgot my place. I didn't understand--" Eric hangs his head, "Please forgive me."
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 05:37:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 18, 2020, 05:39:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 05:41:46 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 18, 2020, 06:04:41 pm
"I forgive you child. We all make mistakes, but no one is beyond redemption. Isela, I will leave you some time to consider what I said and how that should affect our strategy against the plague, but for now, what is your assessment of the situation at Steelworks Number Nine?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 18, 2020, 06:32:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 06:38:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 18, 2020, 06:53:26 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 07:00:09 pm
Take a moment to assess our injuries. Are we in fighting shape? If not, is it something that healing factor could fix?
Post by: Eschar on May 18, 2020, 07:43:00 pm
"I don't know. Like I said, Emma and William aren't saying much about it." Isela shrugs a shoulder. "Can't quite advise on a situation I have no control over."
Isn't that what advisors are for? Except us, naturally.
Post by: ZBridges on May 18, 2020, 07:44:32 pm
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 19, 2020, 12:25:28 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 19, 2020, 01:09:30 am
Spoiler: OOC (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on May 19, 2020, 04:30:57 am
"Odd. You should definitely be kept in the loop, as this is your job. I'll talk to William and Emma about it. For now, you are both dismissed. Thank you for your duty."+1
Take a moment to assess our injuries. Are we in fighting shape? If not, is it something that healing factor could fix?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 19, 2020, 07:23:33 am
I agree with the assessing of injuries, but Emma and William might not know much either. To my knowledge, we, Emma, nor William can read thoughts. “Thank you. I will go there soon and assist where needed. You are dismissed for now.”"Odd. You should definitely be kept in the loop, as this is your job. I'll talk to William and Emma about it. For now, you are both dismissed. Thank you for your duty."+1
Take a moment to assess our injuries. Are we in fighting shape? If not, is it something that healing factor could fix?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 19, 2020, 11:59:55 am
["The Ministers have been assembled, Pheobe -- except for Isela."]
["She should be there soon."]
[-] You still need to heal the muscles of your chest, but are concerned about overusing your healing factor. You also wonder if you shouldn't take some time to relax -- the therapist recommended it, but you are stubborn...but then again, the Infection within could rear its ugly head in the middle of combat.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 19, 2020, 02:03:04 pm
Minister of State: Dan Hoganson Present
Minister of Religion: Lacey Sterling Present
Minister of Agriculture: Mickey MacGruder Present
Minister of Industry: Nettle Armssmith Present
Head Guardian: Lauren Mack Present
Crusader General: Isela Tabbet Present
Minister of Internal Affairs: William Thornton Absent
Minister of Foreign Affairs: Tiffany Mellone Present
Minister of Trade and Finance: Lawrence Geoyde Present
Minister of Communications, Regent: Emeralda Thornton Present
Minister of Health: Val Foster Present
Acting Secretary: Child of SEED Three
Acting Executor: Child of SEED Zero
Notable Guests:Eric Applegate (Guest of Isela), Jack X (William Thornton's Representative)
Security Force: Twelve Heavy Crusaders
The Minister of State rises to speak first, explaining the domestic situation. People are frustrated but calm. There have been several recent events that have improved morale—promises of better food, more fulfilling work, and luxuries to come. There have been several requests to allow the Fortress to open its metaphorical doors to more immigrants. The new and old local leaders are for the moment, content, and several Families in the newly conquered regions are applying for approval to be recognized by your government. Plans have been drawn up for a road into the Fortress using one of the levels that lies near a valley. Isela is stalling it, citing defense. Minister Geoyde supports it, as does Minister Armsmith.
The Minister of Religion has reorganized the Preacher group of Scholars. Wandering Preachers lead sermons and give lectures in the public areas now. A book of approved Sermons is currently under production -- edited by Lacey herself. Now that you're awake, she would like you to look over it. She has no proposals on the table.
The Minister of Agriculture has opened up three more levels of the Algae Farms and ordered a rare wintertime planting of Potatoes for the remaining agricultural districts. However, this may have adverse effects on the region's soil quality, especially in regards to spring wheat production. There are many concerns in regards to next year's food production, as ecologists are predicting a period of intense cooling and famine because of SEED's detonation. However, on a brighter note, the Thorntons have filled a recreational level with hydroponics gardens, growing a variety of crops to diversify the Fortress' diet.
The Minister of Industry gruffly reports there's seven currently active hydrogen refineries at the Fortress- not enough to support the full demand of the entire city-state, but enough to give the Crusaders leeway. However, with the resources coming in from the Steelworks Districts, they can start manufacturing more hydrogen refineries to meet demand. Yet, these new refineries will not be finished, at the earliest, until next year, followed by another year of training. One of the lower levels is claimed for this endeavor. With the help of the Algae tanks, the Thorntons are managing to produce necessary chemicals for agricultural and industrial processes. Production begins next week on conventional, slug-thrower firearms -- however, las-guns are still out of reach.
Lauren Mack, Head Guardian, informs you that there have been no significant issues, aside from your problems this morning with the crowd. Several individuals have come forward about their misdemeanors towards you. "...most of us didn't sign up to kill a lot of stupid people, so we're letting them go with an extra labor fine."
The Foreign Affairs Minister, unsurprisingly, has nothing to report. Her Ministry seems the most anemic and has few functions. The official policy with the Outlander Clans and Groups is to ignore them.
Minister of Trade and Finance is -- is an anxious wreck. He stutters as he describes how much resources they have, but his Ministry is unfortunately tasked with rebuilding an economy when there's nothing to build one -on-.
Valerie 'Val' Foster, gives summaries on supplies of critical medical materials. The Thorntons, with their advanced chemists, have been working around the clock to produce antiseptics and other medicinal chemicals. Cloth, funnily enough, for bandages, is where there's a difficulty. The bioplastic district was responsible for its production -- and now, all they have to work with is what scant supplies they can find from cottage artisans.
Emma Thornton gives her Ministry report next. She's established a newspaper running propaganda pieces and other important news. There's a clever organization scheme -- papers are delivered based on housing units, read, and then recovered at the end of the day. That night, they are recycled and have a new day's information printed on it. She's also discovered an intra-fortress radio broadcast system -- even going so far as to point one of the speakers out in the meeting room. She has an idea to use this to deliver daily news as well and emergency broadcasts, your speeches, and so on. The Fortress beautification project is going well, and she politely requests that you all take a look.
Isela, of course, already gave her report.
A skinny young man reports William's stead. He hands you a slip of paper in silence. 'Possible lead on 'rumor' situation. Not an isolated incident. Read aloud. Scan faces. Judge reactions.' The young man hurries back to hover nearby the seat. You swear you know his name, but it just isn't coming to mind...
Post by: Eschar on May 19, 2020, 02:15:34 pm
Or should we? If suspects are in this room as the note seems to suggest, we might have an explosive situation on our hands. Not like William's outburst, but possibility of another incident like the one at our speech.
Do the ministers need to trust each other in order to do their jobs?
Post by: ZBridges on May 19, 2020, 02:59:44 pm
Read aloud. Scan faces. Judge reactions.+1
Or should we? If suspects are in this room as the note seems to suggest, we might have an explosive situation on our hands. Not like William's outburst, but possibility of another incident like the one at our speech.
Do the ministers need to trust each other in order to do their jobs?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 19, 2020, 03:40:24 pm
It's nice to see that the cultist, Jack, has changed his ways. Let's read it aloud and see what happens.Read aloud. Scan faces. Judge reactions.+1
Or should we? If suspects are in this room as the note seems to suggest, we might have an explosive situation on our hands. Not like William's outburst, but possibility of another incident like the one at our speech.
Do the ministers need to trust each other in order to do their jobs?
+1
We must read whatever it is out loud, sans the three sentences saying to do so
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 19, 2020, 06:25:55 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 19, 2020, 06:50:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 19, 2020, 11:38:04 pm
"Research is a strong word for it. We're working our way up the ladder that SEED and yourself have provided towards integrated circuits and las-gun manufacturing." Armssmith reports, scratching at her jawline. "We need 'em to maintain our equipment."
Post by: ZBridges on May 20, 2020, 12:00:43 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 20, 2020, 12:31:19 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 20, 2020, 12:35:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 20, 2020, 12:46:42 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 20, 2020, 12:50:43 am
"I see. Even though Hardy was a traitor to his god and his nation, that whole incident was regrettable. In any case, do you have any evidence that the cult that was active in the Holy City might have some remnants here?"
Post by: King Zultan on May 20, 2020, 03:37:02 am
So much for your promise not to kill him, Phoenix. Hmm... no body.+1
"I see. Even though Hardy was a traitor, that whole incident was regrettable. In any case, do you have any evidence that the cult that was active in the Holy City might have some remnants here?"
Post by: Kashyyk on May 20, 2020, 03:44:47 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 20, 2020, 04:00:48 am
Y'all should probably tell the council off for ignoring Emma when she was acting as regent.Yeah we should probably do that as well.
Post by: ZBridges on May 20, 2020, 05:12:28 am
Apparently they listened to her just fine while we were in a coma, which is what was needed.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 20, 2020, 10:43:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 20, 2020, 10:51:08 am
"I'm not your mom, Pheobe. The council barely listens to me since you woke up." Emma shrugs, relaxing when she notices the direction of your anger.
The key phrase here is "since you woke up."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 20, 2020, 04:59:58 pm
"Ah. Shame. I didn't intend for that to be lethal. I forget human fragility, sometimes." You opine, curling your hands and resting your chin on them to look over the Ministers. You give them a slightly sinister smile. All of them meet your gaze. "Before I continue, however, there is something I would like to say -- Emma is my second in command and consort. Besides that, she is an angel of prophecy -- someone gifted, and cursed, with the ability to see the future. Her word, like mine, is law. You will obey it as such when I'm not here. Thank you again, Emma, for everything while I rested.."
Emma nods, smiling a weak, relieved smile while the other Ministers seem to examine her in a new light. They give a respectful bow of their heads and murmur their thanks. She brushes a strand of hair from her eyes.
"Any sign of the cult From the Holy City, Lauren Mack?"
"They have a cell style structure -- we won't know until they appear. Their leader was not evacuated."
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 03:38:06 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 21, 2020, 05:27:35 am
"Hmm. That's unfortunate. Hopefully there aren't any cells remaining. Jack, I would like to establish a personal guard that is independent from the other ministries. Is that something that Internal Affairs could handle?"+1
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 21, 2020, 11:41:40 am
+1"Hmm. That's unfortunate. Hopefully there aren't any cells remaining. Jack, I would like to establish a personal guard that is independent from the other ministries. Is that something that Internal Affairs could handle?"+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 21, 2020, 02:07:19 pm
Wait, if their leader wasn’t evacuated, that would mean that he/she was most likely assimilated along with the cult members, unless the Plague is keeping them around since they wanted this to happen. Isn’t it a good thing the cult is likely dead? Or am I missing something?+1"Hmm. That's unfortunate. Hopefully there aren't any cells remaining. Jack, I would like to establish a personal guard that is independent from the other ministries. Is that something that Internal Affairs could handle?"+1
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 03:36:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 04:04:19 pm
"I would like to interject -- if it pleases Mother Pheonix, I can organize such a guard." He proposes, calmly, "As I am sure you have many things you need to do, Mother Pheonix."
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 04:06:52 pm
"Thank you Eric, that would be excellent."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 04:12:32 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 04:16:50 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 21, 2020, 04:33:17 pm
May I ask why you don’t trust Eric?
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 04:36:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 21, 2020, 06:23:54 pm
How will we word the refusal?
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 06:24:17 pm
Here's my suggestion for that.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 21, 2020, 06:26:24 pm
"Thank you for the offer, Eric, but this is something I would like to personally oversee. Jack, please send me the applications and I'll have the Children of SEED prepare dossiers for each, as they are quite adept at that. I will then sort through them and select the candidates I would like."sounds good. +1
Here's my suggestion for that.
What do we do in the meantime? Collect plague Samples via earth spheres like before for Silas?
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 06:30:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 07:03:17 pm
You do note that there are other issues that the Ministers raised for you to consider, as of this time, and they look on eagerly for answers and direction.
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 07:09:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 07:44:21 pm
[7 vs 15] "You have not ruled long, I see." Hoganson ventures. He never raises his voice. "Freedom is well and good -- when it can be afforded. Our budget is measured in ration cubes and tanks of hydrogen. We need an economy, we need a road built into the fortress, and we need constant reminders to the people about how lucky they are to survive."
"That road idea threatens the safety of the fortress and gives away our position, Hoganson -- and you're too bold with Mother Pheonix." Isela retorts, lifting herself out of her seat.
"And another youth speaks -- tell me Ch-- -sorry- General Tabbet, what is the purpose of security if we cannot cloth our population? If we cannot arm our troops, if we cannot pay them a wage and promise them better after this wretched war?" Hoganson counters, expressionless. "Do you know what happens when trained soldiers are turned out of their armies without a backup plan? War. Constant war. And not a war of Plagues, but a war of men. Insurgents, counter-insurgencies, paramilitaries."
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 07:58:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 08:25:17 pm
"No man is a mountain -- and neither is industry." Armssmith offers, "We need many things from the outside world to sustain u--"
"We mine it then. We've got enough of the equipment down below." Isela returns.
"In the fractured earth? We haven't had in an earthquake in a month, but mines are not stable constructions." Arsmssmith asks, bluntly, rhetorically. "The minerals in the world are scarce at best. We need a wide net. Were it not for the Thorton chemis--"
Here, Lauren Mack has an odd-sounding cough. 'Drugpeddlars'
"Were it not for the Thorton Chemists, our steel production would be ground to a halt. But even they cannot produce elemental sulfur, or purified silicon, or pure iron." Armssmith finishes, glancing over to Lauren.
"But what-what do we trade for them?" It's the first time you've heard Geoyde stutter himself into the conversation. "Values change based on perception of worth. The Outlanders survived-survived this mess with their economy intact -- people are starting to use Outlander Clan jade and gold coins to trade. We do not have control of any kind, because SEED's Industrial credits are worthless besides for some of the worst food imaginable. "
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 08:35:01 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 21, 2020, 10:53:30 pm
"We could institute a protection tax on personal property." Hoganson scratches at his bearded face.
"That'd make our currency more rare if we didn't spend it." Geoyde murmurs. looks down and away as he thinks. His stutter clears for the moment as he runs the idea through his head, "We buy our notes back with something we're already doing. It would seem silly at first, but it would build trust in our money--" Suddenly, "I vote we receive a salary, after a year of our service."
"You corrupt--" Lauren Mack starts, standing up abruptly. You lift a hand, and her words catch in her throat. It required no application of will, no anger, no nudge from your powers -- it was your reputation alone.
Post by: ZBridges on May 21, 2020, 11:59:04 pm
"Would it also be possible to do some prospecting of the nearby mountains? If we could find a source of precious metal, we could look into producing non-token coinage to make trading with Outlanders easier."
Post by: King Zultan on May 22, 2020, 03:35:41 am
"I appreciate your work, and I would be fine with all ministers earning a salary after one year. Please look into establishing a nearby commerce zone, building a road to it, and instituting a protection tax on private property."+1
"Would it also be possible to do some prospecting of the nearby mountains? If we could find a source of precious metal, we could look into producing non-token coinage to make trading with Outlanders easier."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 22, 2020, 05:59:16 am
+1"I appreciate your work, and I would be fine with all ministers earning a salary after one year. Please look into establishing a nearby commerce zone, building a road to it, and instituting a protection tax on private property."+1
"Would it also be possible to do some prospecting of the nearby mountains? If we could find a source of precious metal, we could look into producing non-token coinage to make trading with Outlanders easier."
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 22, 2020, 09:10:07 am
+1+1"I appreciate your work, and I would be fine with all ministers earning a salary after one year. Please look into establishing a nearby commerce zone, building a road to it, and instituting a protection tax on private property."+1
"Would it also be possible to do some prospecting of the nearby mountains? If we could find a source of precious metal, we could look into producing non-token coinage to make trading with Outlanders easier."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 22, 2020, 08:27:00 pm
"We cannot do that, otherwise our currency will devalue." Geoyde retorts, still looking down at the desk. "And as for minting currency -- SEED has forbidden the institution of a gold standard--"
Zero interrupts here, speaking for the first time in the meeting, "Gold, as a standard of currency, is inherently worthless. As of last year, in our system, there is enough gold that we could give a [hundred pounds] to each Citizen and still have some leftover. Trading it with the Outlanders has merits. But should our citizens use it amongst themselves, it will be devalued. Better keep it in raw form."
"We could completely destroy their economy by the end of this." Isela notes, building on the idea, "By flooding it with gold, should we so choose."
"I suppose I will send out prospectors. I doubt we'll find much." Armssmith nods, looking at Isela strangely.
Post by: ZBridges on May 22, 2020, 11:44:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 23, 2020, 12:11:52 am
Post by: Kashyyk on May 23, 2020, 02:09:06 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 23, 2020, 02:19:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 23, 2020, 05:32:18 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 23, 2020, 05:44:38 am
"Can we revisit this issue in one year? If it is feasible at that point, we can certainly consider it."+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 23, 2020, 10:01:56 am
The Empyre's currency is backed in energy, but that's hard to implement, here. I think he's hoping that by our government pretending our money has value that it regains its value. But now I think he's needling for a headstart on his paycheck--which means he wants the ministers to be more financially powerful than other groups in the social structure. That helps us maintain our power, but it will anger some.this sounds like it could work, though we need to eventually find something to back our money on, so the money won’t become worthless again if something in government changes
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 12:13:38 am
The consensus is no, and Zero turns to you for your words -- an edict, a speech, or a simple dismissal. It is your first time with the council, they might be expecting something. You take in their appearances in a single glance before you say anything.
Hoganson is expressionless, Emma looks half-asleep, and Geoyde looks a little less anxious. Armssmith looks a little uncomfortable, and Lacey looks...serene. The others wear a neutral expression.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 12:29:26 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 24, 2020, 01:42:24 am
"Did you want me to take a look at those sermons and approve the Families' request? Also, please attempt to make contact with the eastern Outlanders."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 02:18:22 am
"And what do we say? Sorry for the one hundred years of refusing to recognize their existence?" Mellone questions at your last request.
"I've already had a copy delivered to your room, Mother Pheonix." Lacey states.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 02:41:07 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 03:04:38 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 03:14:11 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 24, 2020, 04:55:26 am
"Not las-guns, and only in very limited numbers. A taste of our power. Make it clear that we have more to give them, but only if they agree to closer relations."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 06:40:41 pm
"Is there any other issues for Mother Pheonix to attend to? Or does she have any other issues to raise?" Zero questions, monotone.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 07:20:40 pm
"We all know that we have suffered an incalculable loss. The Holy SEED left this world forever, choosing to ascend into the heavens rather than suffer the indignity of corruption, and our Holy City was breached and destroyed. However, when I look at your shining examples and the earnest faces of our citizens, I know that there is still hope. The Great Work continues. Incredibly, our future is bright despite the depredations of the darkness. Go now in peace."
"Emma, may I speak to you privately for a moment?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 07:25:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 07:27:45 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 07:29:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 07:34:52 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 07:41:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 07:47:51 pm
"Why isn't Isela involved in Steelworks Nine?" You gently interrogate.
"Black Nicky is the Last Great Crusader. Do you want word to spread about how little faith she had in your government? About how there's an alternative? Or do you want to make an announcement when you have her captured, bound in chains and standing trial?" Emma shrugs a shoulder, looking at the door. "The only people who knew of your condition were Crusaders. That turned out well."
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 07:50:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 07:54:22 pm
Emma shrugs a shoulder. "I doubt he'll lose, but it will be a pyrrhic victory. One we'll have to afford."
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 07:56:44 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 08:00:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:03:52 pm
"[Cephie, things are tough in Steelworks Nine. Would you be willing to help William out? I'd join you, but I don't think it would be good for my health.]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 08:13:19 pm
["Probably better if you don't fight in a city, to be honest. Explosions plus cheap buildings are not a good mix. I'll head down there."] Cephie responds, stifling a yawn. ["I'll take a regular hovercraft -- leave my ship. Help yourself to food or whatever."]
And the line goes dead. Armssmith stands before you, hands curled across a batch of papers in a leather case. "I wanted to talk to you about the Looming...it...it don't seem natural. I mean, I understand SEED made the technology...but..." She trails off into silence, letting the implication hang. You are a child of the Loom -- not here, not on this world, but of another. There's always a question that hangs above your head -- if I didn't have biological parents, am I truly a human? Or an automaton of flesh?
That is the question that Armssmith is raising. If it is truly ethical to create human life in this manner.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:17:35 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 08:18:53 pm
"Minister Armssmith, do you feel most at home with deontology, rules-based ethics, or teleology, consequence-based ethics? If a lie was necessary to save human lives, would you lie, even though telling a lie is wrong?"I don’t like you implying that we are somehow wrong.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:20:20 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:25:22 pm
it’s not like we don’t have will. I don’t see a problem with the technology. Phoenix, avoid Slayer, others, please weigh in"Minister Armssmith, do you feel most at home with deontology, rules-based ethics, or teleology, consequence-based ethics? If a lie was necessary to save human lives, would you lie, even though telling a lie is wrong?"I don’t like you implying that we are somehow wrong.
Hmm. I was thinking that he already thinks we are wrong somehow, and it would be easier to argue it is necessary rather than that looming is absolutely right, but if this doesn't work I would be fine with switching tact.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 08:26:36 pm
We were created to be a soldier...is that why peace is so hard for us to find? You muse while the others argue, considering the topic.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:31:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 08:36:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:39:22 pm
Unless you have a different perspective, Woman of Nature?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 08:47:35 pm
That's a good question... we should look into how looming has affected populations in the past so that we can make an informed decision. If it brings about divides and suffering, it may not be a good choice.Agreed. For that, we need to somehow connect with the network probably
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:50:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 24, 2020, 08:54:12 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 08:56:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 09:29:42 pm
Your seat is at the head of the table, facing the great doors that lead into this room. Carefully positioned as important.
So, this is what being a ruler feels like -- boring meetings.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 09:38:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 10:03:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 10:07:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 10:40:09 pm
They slide open for you, and you enter in on Cephie. Gone is the various outfits of her disguises, gone are the clothes of SEED and the outlander. She stands in a tight set of black armor. It's touched with gleaming things you can only truly comprehend as being like stones. It shifts up her torso, covering her completely just as you walk in. Plates start to emerge, covering vital areas of her body. "Oh, hey Pheobe."
"Hey...Cephie. What's that?"
"Oh? This is my mark seventy-eight."
"A-armor?"
"Yes! It's designed for my particular powers. I can shape it into anything I need-- and it stores some of my calories."
"Have you ever heard of a mark fifteen?" You question.
Cephie looks a little embarrassed. "They made those near the end of the Reclamation Wars, millennia ago...its...its an antique, to be honest."
"Ah."
"I mean, its better than nothing! But this one has a built in shield generator,...a bunch of neat tricks."
"Sounds pretty...useful." You give her a smile, "I was wondering, could I have access to the your AI to research some things?"
"Sure!" Leaning over, Cephie snatches up the datapad and tosses it your way. "Keep it. It's got a wireless connection -- it should work in most, if not all of the levels of the Fortress--"
"I...are you sure?"
"I'll print a new one when I get back."
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 10:46:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 11:02:21 pm
You nod, leaving with her, turning the datapad on as you make your way to the Thornton Library that was brought with the Thorton Family Refugees. Emma set it up as a curated Library of SEED, one of the only ones in the fortress. You drift in, taking a seat at a hidden alcove, illuminated by a dim lamp.
What am I looking for?
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 11:09:59 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 11:26:15 pm
[13]...When in structured roles with clear definitions, humans augmented past Homo Fundamentum levels will generally be accepted by most, if not all cultures. However, those without a diverse background for interacting with non-Fundamentum humans will generally have issues accepting a variety of above or below baseline level humans...inferiority or superiority complexes will be brought to a head, resulting in civil strife... It lists a number of planets where such strife had detrimental effects. Mixed societies usually have been brought about as a slow process, or with peoples who have an understanding of diversity and different cultures. Most societies usually rely on one or the other, either using Looming for all reproductive needs, or all-natural approaches. Slow integration of Non-Fundamemtum Humans usually results in a more robust, healthy population.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 11:41:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 24, 2020, 11:46:59 pm
All in all, it seems that no one has any idea about how ethically correct such creations are. This complicated matter is exacerbated by the fact that all the humans in the known galaxy were descended from Loomed Homo Fundamentums. No trace of Homo Sapiens exists, except in old genetic records and in the oldest rim pirate fleets.
Post by: ZBridges on May 24, 2020, 11:58:57 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 12:07:53 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 12:25:33 am
Ask Zero to send a missive to Armssmith labeling the technology as ethical as long as indoctrination is not forced and the resulting humans are introduced to our population slowly.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 12:34:16 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 12:37:46 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 12:44:22 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 12:57:50 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 25, 2020, 07:42:04 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 25, 2020, 03:50:26 pm
Not to create soldiers specifically, but a variety of specialists in different roles. More doctors, engineers, diplomats, and elite soldiers for special missions. We probably have a skills gap due to the loss of life from the destruction of the Holy City, and this could help fix that. That's a good point that it would also help pad out our population.we could teach them various roles and then they can pick what they wish do do. Also while we have WiFi, we should probably learn about Strain 112, whether it’s a newer plague or an older one, if it’s been found and fought on other planets, whether it’s made structures on other planets,...If it’s on other planets in this star system, if we beat the ones on this planet, it, or another strain could come back here
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 06:17:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 07:06:46 pm
Among its unique properties was its ability to interrupt Forumalue of Ascended through the use of data dampening, memetic infections, and cruel intelligence. It also formed Plague Lords and Fenrir Class Bodies at a higher rate than normal. A number of Ascended were turned, and a few were noted to retain identity and intelligence, however, madness and cannibalism were noted to be symptoms...they were noted to be stronger, faster, and generally more cruel...
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 07:17:46 pm
Is there any information on the best way to fight Strain 111?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 07:21:40 pm
Orbital bombardment, followed by a standard mop-up operation. Disabling of Plague Lords and Fenrirs, however, is another story. A full naval fleet is recommended for Fenrir class, and a large squad of Ascended is recommended for Plague Lords.
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 07:29:11 pm
Search for any information on a noble of the Empyre named Magnus.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 08:08:24 pm
[-]Magnus is a family name, and has three separate instances. Magnus the first is an Ancient Elder Noble, one of the Founders of the Empyre. Magnus the second is a Noble Gentleman, and Magnus the Third is a Noble Youth-- apparently he's only recently turned two thousand and twelve. The Magnus line is noted for their empathy regarding those outside of the Empyrean Core. Of all the nobles, they contributed the most ships and the most resources to the Plague War. Magnus the third actually lost a brother to the battles. They have a history of charity and anti-slavery works. They are also the ones who protested and challenged the destruction of Arcadia the most. They, like all nobles, possess immense power over the natural world, having control over a wide variety of elements and energies. You watch a video of Magnus the Third--
A towering beast stands over an army of the Infected, like a god of old. It's hard to describe -- a cloud of black in the vague shape of a man, clad in armor that reminds one of a demon. [Twenty meters tall]. Eight arms hold fire, ice, and lightning, and you watch as he rips through the opposing Plague like a hot knife through butter. Nothing remains, the camera cuts, and a young, black-haired, pale-skinned man returns from over the horizon. He flashes a cheerful grin at the camera, giving a wave.
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 08:12:40 pm
Search for information on Plague Lords and Fenrirs.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 25, 2020, 09:32:33 pm
Interesting... just the man we need to defeat the Plague, and he seems like a decent sort. Maybe we can come to some kind of agreement.+1
Search for information on Plague Lords and Fenrirs.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 25, 2020, 10:57:46 pm
Fortunately, most Fenrirs do not possess much in the way of intelligence or long term planning. However, this one was special. Based upon historical and prescience data, it was determined that this Fenrir grew around an Ascended Plague Lord. Plague Lords spontaneously arise when the Plague evolves. It eventually takes on a human-esque form, gaining willpower and further intelligence. Usually, these can be defeated with overwhelming firepower, just as any Ascended can be defeated.
However, should an Ascended, live or dead, fall prey to the Plague, and be taken back to the Place Of Origin, the Plague will undergo a rapid mutation. A Plague Lord, usually something taking many, many thousands of years to form, will nearly spontaneously appear. The Data stored within an Ascended will be used to modify the Plague. Willpower is based on the amount of certain nano-cells within the body -- however, the Plague will create these cells at a rapid rate. It will no longer bound by the restrictions placed upon the Plague by the Endless Emperor/Empress. It will be an unfettered demon, capable of devouring worlds -- reshaping them with Willpower. It is recommended by all involved that during battle with the Plague, that all Ascended corpses should be treated as relics or destroyed.
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 11:28:31 pm
Who was Regis III of Sol?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 25, 2020, 11:41:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 25, 2020, 11:47:16 pm
Phoenix, what is your interpretation of this information?
Post by: King Zultan on May 26, 2020, 04:46:29 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 05:06:21 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 26, 2020, 06:04:39 am
Also couldn't we put a timer on the bomb so even if they get it it still explodes?
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 06:28:53 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 26, 2020, 06:42:30 am
What about impact sensitive bombs that get dropped from planes, they can't replicate it if it blows up when it hits the ground.
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 06:48:58 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 26, 2020, 07:02:26 am
Also if the bomb's a dud they might not be able to use it to make a working one.
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 07:08:35 am
I'd rather not take the chance of them acquiring an unexploded bomb and potentially knowing how to use it. Let's take a look at how nuclear weapons have been used against the plague historically.
Historically, how effective were nuclear weapons against plagues, and have plagues ever captured and repurposed these weapons?
Post by: King Zultan on May 26, 2020, 07:48:03 am
Historically, how effective were nuclear weapons against plagues, and have plagues ever captured and repurposed these weapons?+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 26, 2020, 07:52:26 am
+1Historically, how effective were nuclear weapons against plagues, and have plagues ever captured and repurposed these weapons?+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 26, 2020, 08:27:03 pm
[-] As for the population having Plague cells -- it seems the entire human race is similarly affected. The dormant Plague is generally considered benign and is unfortunately impossible to cure. It doesn't seem to do much, besides cause minor, random skin irritation. A few more advanced cases have random, tiny tentacle style growth, but these are easily removed and fairly harmless.
[-] Nuclear weapons have a good track record against the Plague, as it cannot withstand the temperatures that are produced. Radiation and EMP generation also disrupt communication and organism health. You pause when you read about fusion weapons, interested in the concept.
[16] You split hydrogen from water vapor from the air, keeping a tiny amount, only two atoms worth, contained in a small field of energy within your palm. With a twist of your will, you begin to push them hard into one another -- the air cackles with a sudden release of energy. A small electromagnetic force escapes, and an unfamiliar atom emerges from your willpower's grip. Apparently this is helium...?
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 08:37:03 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 26, 2020, 08:39:21 pm
So if everyone has a benign version, I’m curious what ways there are to keep it benign, and to figure that out, we need to figure out what makes it not benign, so we can avoid the plague growth triggers
Ninja’ dragon
Agreed, this is very useful, though to make better use of it, we’;l need to increase the scale, while at the same time not putting our people in danger
Post by: The Canadian kitten on May 26, 2020, 09:10:06 pm
[-] Regis III of Sol was, from your brief analysis of a strange Tree-Like Organization of your line, a warrior from a cadet branch. One of the Kindred of the Rimward King. He fell in battle many years ago, during the Plague War. He was, however, recovered. He apparently had led the purge of nine-hundred and seventy-three planets of the Plague.This seems familiar. Was this me or one of my siblings?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 26, 2020, 10:13:42 pm
[-] Regis III of Sol was, from your brief analysis of a strange Tree-Like Organization of your line, a warrior from a cadet branch. One of the Kindred of the Rimward King. He fell in battle many years ago, during the Plague War. He was, however, recovered. He apparently had led the purge of nine-hundred and seventy-three planets of the Plague.This seems familiar. Was this me or one of my siblings?
You know the answer to that question.
And, as an author's note: chemistry and physics has not been replaced in this setting. You control two elements. You fully control two elements. They're not the most useful elements in mixing them...
[-]Too many active Plague Nanites in an organism, usually as a result of rupture of the epidermis or direct infestation of the mucous membrane. Different strains have different levels of nanite per organism before 'spontaneous' Infection can occur. For the everyday Empyreal Citizen, this level is far above possible lifetime levels, thanks to the Endless Emperor's intervention.
Post by: ZBridges on May 26, 2020, 11:05:51 pm
Ask Zero to prepare an underground chamber for nuclear testing. Then, take a break from research to look over applications for the personal guard.
Post by: King Zultan on May 27, 2020, 06:47:34 am
((Hmm. I wish I knew more than almost nothing about chemistry...))+1 But can we make sure this chamber is far from the fort so if something goes wrong we don't kill everyone.
Ask Zero to prepare an underground chamber for nuclear testing. Then, take a break from research to look over applications for the personal guard.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 27, 2020, 11:24:34 am
["Thank you, Zero."] You mentally murmur, stretching out. You snatch up the datapad, heading to your office. You set it aside and turn your attention to the stack of folders on your desk. You pick one up and set it down in front of you, browsing through it. A random, veteran Crusader. He was formerly one of your bodyguards in the Holy City but was shuffled elsewhere to fill in gaps.
So, what am I looking for?
Post by: ZBridges on May 27, 2020, 03:19:08 pm
Post by: King Zultan on May 28, 2020, 03:55:02 am
I would recommend experience, loyalty without necessarily religiosity, and a record that suggests bravery.+1 Those all sound like good things to look for.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 28, 2020, 08:23:42 pm
Perhaps I should Loom my Guard... You quietly consider. Idly, you flip through the pages of your sermon book. Blah-blah blah, Holy Light of Sol -- descendent of SEED-- so on and so forth. There's nothing concrete about your life within the tome. You're a legend -- that is to say, only half-real to these people -- like McCreary. With Nicole Gainer gone-- if...you realize she's your penultimate connection to your existence as Pheobe. The only other is the Thornton Family.
Loneliness creeps up as the sun rises. You haphazardly sign off on the book, feeling your limbs ache with exhaustion as you rise to shower.
Using the Interface's memories, your contemplate your scabbed chest beneath the cold water of the shower. Healing again might prove too risky, with the brain damage you endured. It would help if you had some time to repair your brain -- by this time next week, you'll be ready for battle. Or for training. Now you think, is the time for study and healing.
What should I do this week? Study? Paperwork? Vacation?
Post by: Eschar on May 28, 2020, 08:33:46 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 28, 2020, 08:40:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 28, 2020, 08:43:40 pm
You have no urge to rise, to shut the gates on the wall of glass that overlooks your nation. So, with a twist your will and some clever hydrogen manipulation, you push the button beside the door from where you lay. The shutters rattle shut, and the room descends into darkness-- you didn't need to. The lack of light or its presence doesn't bother you one way or the other. It felt normal.
I'm not doing that all week! Having an AI in your brain-- knowing what I'm thinking, analyzing me, trying to fix the problem isn't a pleasant experience, especially after having to deal with Interface. You bristle.
Post by: ZBridges on May 28, 2020, 08:51:27 pm
Post by: Eschar on May 28, 2020, 08:52:02 pm
in your brain-- knowing what I'm thinking, analyzing me, trying to fix the problem isn't a pleasant experience
You realize this describes us advisors' function as well.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 28, 2020, 09:01:02 pm
A day of therapy. I guess I could work on my charisma, as well...that's a day, altogether. Time doesn't work the same in those things -- or my perception of time doesn't. Maybe I could study fusion and chemistry more?
Post by: ZBridges on May 28, 2020, 09:14:17 pm
Perhaps you could simulate training healing others with our will? We got close a few times, and this way nobody will be injured if things go wrong.
Post by: King Zultan on May 29, 2020, 06:15:06 am
Fusion and chemistry would absolutely be helpful. My memories of them have dulled over the centuries.+1 Those sound like good uses of our time.
Perhaps you could simulate training healing others with our will? We got close a few times, and this way nobody will be injured if things go wrong.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on May 29, 2020, 08:02:51 am
+1Fusion and chemistry would absolutely be helpful. My memories of them have dulled over the centuries.+1 Those sound like good uses of our time.
Perhaps you could simulate training healing others with our will? We got close a few times, and this way nobody will be injured if things go wrong.
Post by: Hotfire90 on May 30, 2020, 03:25:02 pm
+1+1Fusion and chemistry would absolutely be helpful. My memories of them have dulled over the centuries.+1 Those sound like good uses of our time.
Perhaps you could simulate training healing others with our will? We got close a few times, and this way nobody will be injured if things go wrong.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 31, 2020, 11:53:24 pm
For the next forty-eight hours you lose yourself in the complicated work of fusion energy, all while maintaining a small scale reactor of your own willpower. Smashing the atoms together is simple, but the fusion that results, you quietly measure, exerts less energy than what you put into it from your own metabolism. Indeed, it far simpler, and more energy-efficient, to ignite the hydrogen. However, through your research, you discover that there are stages you could, hypothetically, do. However, they each present new problems for you to control. However --
The resulting energy released could be destructive, if properly channeled. The only issue is that you would only be twenty-five meters away from said energy release. That, and it takes time to construct the 'vessel' that contains the blast. This is no even application of heat, no controlling the direction of gas -- this requires you to mentally construct various devices and zones of pressure across the entire algorithm. Far more interesting to you, though, is how much energy is released from the more stable 'reactor' style of your fusion powers, and the elements which are formed.
After studying chemical reactions involving the two elements you control, you have to pull yourself from the pod to find one of the Thornton Chemical Laboratories. Once there, you 'borrow' some glassware, a vacuum chamber and many other items besides. Next, you secure a tank of hydrogen. With your will acting as reinforcement for the vacuum chamber-- you set to work. First one stage, then the next, then the next, recycling components and using your willpower as a filter-- soon, fine dust begins to coat the bottom of the vessel. It shines within the light, molten hot against the padding of pure silicon at the bottom of the vessel. You run out the measured hydrogen tank, having to apply more and more of your own energy to keep the process running.
You slump down, breathing hard, a headache pounding at your skull. You have to rip apart the vacuum chamber to retrieve the matter at the bottom of it. You've synthesized Beryllium (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beryllium) from hydrogen. It currently sits embedded in a crude circle of silicon.
Silicon manipulation, while useful, still lags behind your potent ability to manipulate elemental hydrogen. However, through the use of a vacuum chamber, and list of chemical formulas from your datapad, you do manage to create a few things. Silane (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silane), which combusts upon contact with oxygen. You were, through the use of these chemical sheets, forewarned of its flammable nature, avoiding the explosion that would have ended in deaths for your less fire-proof chemists. It took you a while of work, but after your presentation of the crystal, these people are taking an interest in your work. They copy the formulas, and, with materials provided by you, have managed to synthesize the same materials you have; silane among them.
You incase the silane in a silicon shell, sealing it off in the same move. You head to the launch pad, and with some assistance from your willpower, you throw it at a crag in the canyons. It explodes in a puff of fire. Perhaps if you combined it with something else, such a useful thing could be a trigger for a larger weapon.
There are other uses-- Silane gas is useful in the fabrication of integrated circuits. But the science of that, and the materials you would need, are complicated. More importantly, is that you cannot manipulate 'germanium' or any of the other elements you might need to create a circuit. Logic gates too, are hard for you to conceptualize.
You devote a day to the Therapist, letting it pick at your brain and poke at your weaknesses as an individual. But it does its job dutifully, and without being too invasive. It even pretends that it doesn't already know the answers to the questions it asks. It doesn't take long before it begins to expose you to small-scale failures throughout a 'simulated' day. Failures of your own making and the failures of those under your command.
One day you visit a fusion reactor, deep within the depths of the Fortress. You listen intently to the passionate words of the elderly reactor technician. You come to learn that all of the fusion reactors in service are automated to an amazing degree. . They possess only three control options - warm-up, active-output, and emergency shut down.There are a few displays, but no complicated board like you would expect. However, the technicians possess a deep understanding of the process. The eldest even shows you his bared arm and back -- scarred in tiny script across the skin are thousands of formulas related to hydrogen refinement and fusion. Encoded in the high technical script of the Scholars, of course, but etched permanently into this elder's skin.
[19] -- you use it as a reference guide, and your mental arithmetic becomes quicker as a result. Your eyes automatically seek out the next variable, putting it into your mental arithmetic as you run through the formulae.
[6+3][11+3][8+3] You realize that you are able to form a small reactor contained by your will more safely, and efficiently with this data displayed within eyesight.
[15+3] They are incredibly impressed by the hydrogen reactor that you twisted into existence through force of willpower alone. Their eyes light up with childish glee -- and leaded, high tint glasses. Hidden in their snug, leaded robes, they inform you without the protective measures -- you'd probably kill them just by holding that thing too closely for too long. Deadly radiation, eye-burning particle rays and numerous other horrifying deaths, which Baseline bodies don't have protective measures for. You, on the other hand, seem to be immune to all but the most intense levels of radiation. At least, judging from the fact you can manifest a fusion reactor in your hand with no ill side-effects besides a patch of sore red flesh which vanishes relatively quickly by the next day.
[-] Healing isn't your strong suit. You need more control over trace elements. You do note, however, that you can stem a flow of blood by applying pressure to a wound with purified water. You practice this, and get okay at it. You even manage to keep the blood flowing in a simulated model. Not on a real person, not yet.
You visit the gym while gently healing your gaping chest wound. By the middle of the week, only a [few centimeters] of mesh lays between you and combat. So, with that morbid thought, you exercise while you can, keeping careful not to truly exert your muscles. One day though, Silas wants to tag along.
On that day. You are not careful. In the end, he's found your limits in terms of physical strength.[700 kg or 1543.24 lbs] at a deadlift. The strongest Crusader, Eric, of course, holds the nation-state's current record of [285 kg or 628.317 lbs]. He exercises religiously, pushing himself harder and harder each day he has downtime.
Hoganson crowns your week vacation by delivering a stack of paperwork to your office. Twenty folders, all of them containing Families applying for new positions beneath your government. You rub at your brow, staring at the documents with a side-eye, trying not to think of the slog this will be. Many of these are lesser Families. Small organizations and businesses, minor landowners, and certain manufacturers. Only two are asking to be recognized as major Families -- Hoganson and Sandsper.
Sandsper is a southern Family, barely a step above an Outlander Clan. They have many large herds and arable land in the southern Borderlands. Associated with them are few criminal charges: Tax dodging and illegal genetic manipulation. They have about a thousand members and seek protection within the Fortress. They are offering a gift of three thousand head of their Insects, as well as any technology they may or may not possess.
The Hoganson Family-- your lips quirk into a frown. They were one of the largest prospected mineral suppliers known the SEED, responsible for gathering up the various odds and ends that an industrial society needs. Their largest trading center and warehouse-- was in the Holy City. As of his latest census, his Family now has three hundred dependents-- out of an original five thousand. He wishes to place these into the protection of the Fortress and eventually restart his business. He confides as much to you quite bluntly, crossing his hands over the front of his Crusader Uniform.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 01, 2020, 02:08:28 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 01, 2020, 04:45:26 am
"The Sandsper are approved. As far as the Hoganson family is concerned, could there be conflicts of interest related to being a businessowner as well as a minister?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 01, 2020, 01:46:14 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 01, 2020, 02:25:45 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on June 01, 2020, 05:31:04 pm
"The Hoganson family is also approved."+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 01, 2020, 06:49:28 pm
+1"The Hoganson family is also approved."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 01, 2020, 08:25:52 pm
Its probably best if I skim through all these, ignore the most criminal, and approve all of the relocation requests, right?
Hoganson waits patiently, silently, nearby.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 01, 2020, 08:41:24 pm
Post by: King Zultan on June 02, 2020, 02:00:28 am
"Hoganson, do you anticipate any law enforcement issues related to the relocation of these families?"+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 02, 2020, 09:07:44 am
Its probably best if I skim through all these, ignore the most criminal, and approve all of the relocation requests, right?Yes. That sounds good.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 02, 2020, 09:17:21 pm
"The Moore Family, for instance. They were the largest chemical producers in all of SEED's city-state. Your Family wiped them out in a night -- William Senior bought all of their chemical plants and replaced anybody they could."
Post by: ZBridges on June 02, 2020, 09:19:48 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 02, 2020, 11:35:15 pm
"To be honest with you, Mother Pheonix, and with all due respect -- the Families know what happened to the Moore's. Would somebody risk that for a petty gang squabble?"
"They'll go back to the old ways of combat, before they had access to the Holy City." He finally assures with a shrug. "If there's a conflict, we won't know about it until it hits Emma's ear." He states, in a very directly indirect fashion, taking great pains to avoid the we and the who's. Carefully setting himself aside from the hypothetical problems with a purposefully detached air.
He's testing my patience-- and to see what my opinions on the Families are.
Post by: ZBridges on June 03, 2020, 12:17:39 am
"I will approve all relocations, because we really need the supplies, but Families that are unable to conduct themselves in a sensible manner will be severely punished. This could mean exile, imprisonment, or complete annihilation."
Approve all relocations.
Post by: King Zultan on June 03, 2020, 05:42:37 am
"I suppose you are right. It's better to have them nearby rather than far away. However, squabbles that get out of hand will bring retribution upon all Families involved, without exception."+1
"I will approve all relocations, because we really need the supplies, but Families that are unable to conduct themselves in a sensible manner will be severely punished. This could mean exile, imprisonment, or complete annihilation."
Approve all relocations.
Post by: The Canadian kitten on June 03, 2020, 06:34:43 pm
+1"I suppose you are right. It's better to have them nearby rather than far away. However, squabbles that get out of hand will bring retribution upon all Families involved, without exception."+1
"I will approve all relocations, because we really need the supplies, but Families that are unable to conduct themselves in a sensible manner will be severely punished. This could mean exile, imprisonment, or complete annihilation."
Approve all relocations.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 03, 2020, 11:32:55 pm
"The Moores were...morons. And the Thorntons...are young. They had a lot to prove and a lot to lose. Families...aren't all criminal enterprises. Many of them were around before SEED's dominion over the lands. They kept the peace and defended their people and property." Hoganson shrugs, "Abuse occurred, but you've seen SEED abuse its power the same."
"So, why do some of them turn to crime then?" You question, placing one of the folders in the refuse pile.
"SEED owned the land. It owned the mineral rights. It owned the food. It owned most of the factories. What's left? Drugs. Gunrunning. Prostitution. Smuggling. All the things SEED couldn't control for fear of staining its hands." He pauses, "Where's there's demand, someone will supply it."
"Oh? What's the demand in this Fortress?"
"Drugs. Entertainment. Gambling. People are worried. Scared. They want something to take their mind off of their situation. Emma is doing wonderfully, but..." He shakes his head when you open another folder, and after a brief skim, you agree. "What's the point to a life of survival?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 12:18:50 am
"I am glad that our citizens will have ways to relieve their stress. Once our immediate military needs are met, perhaps we can pivot to the production of some luxuries to take the edge off. Speaking of military needs, do you think some Families would be willing to fight for extra allowances or additional prestige? We need all the soldiers we can get."
Post by: Superdorf on June 04, 2020, 12:31:37 am
((Hey folks-- I'm watching again. Feeling a bit more... stable.))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 04, 2020, 12:52:07 am
"If you recognize them as political entities? Give them a say in government, they'll pirouette and dance. Like the Thorntons." Hoganson straightens up the folders you approved as he speaks calmly, "As a Minister? Ask others. As a Family Head...?"
Hoganson looks down at you, and his lips quirk into a frown, and for once, the dispassionate mask drops. The real Hoganson speaks, still calm, but with a sudden, fierce passion that puts a gleam into his green eyes.
"As a Family Head? Give us the power SEED stripped. Give us self-governance, standing military, and our honor back. In the current situation, the Families are neutral. SEED decreed that they have no power to raise armies and no power to assist military operations. Of course, we both know the truth of the matter -- that's an excuse." Hoganson pauses, "Do you know why?"
"No. Please enlighten me?" You politely return, leaning back in your chair as he gathers the folders.
"Because when things get bad -- that's when they can get the most power by offering their services. That is when their resources will be most useful, and that's when you'll be forced to negotiate to your disadvantage."
Then the mask returns. "Anything else, Mother Pheonix?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 01:41:55 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 04, 2020, 03:48:23 am
"...Nothing for the moment, thank you."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 04, 2020, 01:59:12 pm
You'll be fully healed by tomorrow. Then...then what? Another battle? Another near death experience? Or maybe tomorrow is the day you finally claim a victory that isn't pyrrhic.
What's our plan?
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 03:29:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 04, 2020, 03:40:37 pm
Would you be open to getting in some more training once you're healed up? There are a couple things I'd like to try.What kind of things?
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 03:45:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 04, 2020, 04:03:43 pm
Freezing instead of burning, creating additional arms on our torso using our will similar to how we can create wings on our back, sending out our will and condensing it into a construct that can follow a simple command, sending out our will and condensing it into an object.I don’t think removing hydrogen from something will freeze things, adding body parts will damage cohesion, and condensing and expanding will will exhaust us and we won’t be able to damage anything if we are tired from moving our will to places. What I’m saying is, we can test these, but we shouldn’t be surprised if some of them can’t be done. I’m saying we should be careful
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 04:11:50 pm
With that being said, however, if people don't want to train, I would be fine with supporting another suggestion.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 04, 2020, 07:42:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2020, 09:25:02 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 05, 2020, 01:17:19 am
Once we've an idea of how our brain's holding up, I'd be inclined to consult with Isela as to where we go from here. She may well have a meet target in mind already, and we've new intel for her regardless: the dropship's words as to the nature of the Plague.
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 01:26:23 am
Get a checkup from the dropship as to the status of our memetic infection.
Post by: King Zultan on June 05, 2020, 03:47:34 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 01:16:58 pm
Nothing happens.
"It appears the memetic Plague within you has gone dormant. This surpasses my estimates." It politely informs you, "However, I would still exercise caution -- if you suspect you are having a psychotic episode --" It goes on and on, listing a number of ways to ground yourself during hallucinations. It focuses on tactile experiences, on using logic to determine when a situation may be a hallucination, and on reliance on others. You exit the tank an hour later, getting dressed--
When Cephie steps in. She pauses, doing a double-take, then continues towards the showers, calling back to you as she walks. "That's as good as a reward as any! Your grandmother is in custody and the Crusaders are securing Steelworks Nine."
"...so-so soon?" You call after her, kneeling to lace up your boots.
"You sent two Ascended and a company of Void Troops! What did you expect?" The shower kicks on as she speaks, "William had her on the ropes, and I sealed the deal. He's a...treat, by the way. I didn't think you were into batshit insane."
"It's a long story."
"Hmmh. I bet."
You hesitate. Nicole Gainer has been captured, and, if you're not mistaken, the last major refuge of the separatists has been secured. No doubt there are holdouts, but they lack the industrial might to be little more than thorns in your side. You take your leave, striding back to the elevator to your office. The door slides open, and William stands in the main room, leaning on the telescope. A crooked grin curves his lips when he sees you. He doesn't say a word, instead bowing and gesturing to a bound and black-bagged figure on the floor beside him.
You kneel down, peeling off the bag. Nicole Gainer looks up at you, steel in her eyes -- and a crooked smile on her gagged mouth.
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 01:47:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 01:50:03 pm
Ungag her. "Hello, grandmother. How have you been?"So we’re what, gauging her reaction? +1
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 01:52:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 01:56:47 pm
Confirmation of complete capitulation, the locations of any remaining rebel redoubts, and the locations of the Pontifex and Tyler Hop, I think.Makes sense, sorry, the post was modified before seeing your post
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 01:57:37 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 02:10:19 pm
"Do...do you capitulate?"
"Oh Paradise no, darling. I haven't even really begun to fight. This was more of a...show of defiance. But, dear, if you know what's good for you, you'll let me stretch my limbs a little."
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 02:14:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 02:34:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 02:36:31 pm
Post by: Eschar on June 05, 2020, 02:43:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 02:44:57 pm
...Secondary containment is the holding of myself, Nicole Gainer, as a hostage to ensure her good intentions should Primary Containment methods fail...see appendix section eight for further details as to my relationship with the subject...Emma Thornton has a higher emotional connection to the subject, so great caution should go into retaining her and keeping her close to the Holy City."))
Post by: Superdorf on June 05, 2020, 03:26:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 04:16:24 pm
"In my breast pocket dear. Go on." You kneel down, taking out a small briefing folder. [Angel Of Fire Containment Protocols v.2, SEED APPROVED] is inked across the top. The immediate difference is that is in the basic Scholar's tongue, the one that everyone can read. Inside are glossy photos-- showing the beam of light that obliterated the Moore Patriarch. Followed by a grainy picture of SEED's self destruction-- with you in sillohouette. There's other pictures. The Moore's Villa aflame. A report on Zachary's suspicious death at the hands of the Thortons. Receipts for the purchase of the Moore chemical plants being cheaply procured by the Thornton's...
"I trust you can understand the implication?" Nicole questions, smiling. "Brother Hop has many, many copies. Now be a dear and untie me. My circulation isn't what it used to be."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 04:35:56 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 04:40:19 pm
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]
"What are your demands? We both know that the obvious allegation is false, and we have a propaganda team as well."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 05:05:39 pm
Not sure.I don’t think we need to mention what we have yet.
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]
"What are your demands? We both know that the obvious allegation is false, and we have a propaganda team as well."
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]
"What are your demands?
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 05:13:01 pm
+1Not sure.I don’t think we need to mention what we have yet.
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]
"What are your demands? We both know that the obvious allegation is false, and we have a propaganda team as well."
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]
"What are your demands?
Post by: Superdorf on June 05, 2020, 06:15:17 pm
["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]+1
Frown a little. "In a moment, perhaps."
"You claim you could discredit me. That you've not moved to do so already suggests you hesitate at the ramifications-- or that you expect to get something out of me. What's your game, 'grandmother'?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 06:34:20 pm
We don't need to "mention what we have"-- we do need to put a little bite into our words, lest we come off as acquiescent.+1["Nicole is attempting to blackmail us."]+1
Frown a little. "In a moment, perhaps."
"You claim you could discredit me. That you've not moved to do so already suggests you hesitate at the ramifications-- or that you expect to get something out of me. What's your game, 'grandmother'?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 07:57:55 pm
"SEED wanted you dead. I saved you. I sent you the Pontifex. I gave you a weak general to break. I gave you the authority of a position. And you tell me to surrender when I could have helped you rule."
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 08:12:28 pm
"Of course, if this was truly nothing more than some crazy miscommunication, perhaps we can work together after all."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 08:24:59 pm
"I actually strongly considered giving you the position of Crusader General, given your nearly unmatched political and military experience, and your rare experience with the Plague. When I sent Crusaders to make contact with you, however, you killed them and cut off the tongue of the survivor you sent back. You were clearly hostile, and to pretend otherwise is nothing more than a farce."I’d like to know what miscommunication there was. It looks to me like she is hostile, considering she killed all but one of our Crusaders. I’d really like to hear why she thought that was a good idea. It might be useful to know what she thought they were sent for.
"Of course, if this was truly nothing more than some crazy miscommunication, perhaps we can work together after all."
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 08:36:35 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 08:44:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 08:48:09 pm
"The captain was very rude to me. My Outlanders didn't like that. I didn't exactly stop them, though..." Nicole shrugs to the best of her ability.
Post by: ZBridges on June 05, 2020, 08:52:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 05, 2020, 09:09:43 pm
Pinch nose bridge. "Right. Very good. Thank you, William."
"What exactly did that captain tell you?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 05, 2020, 09:18:52 pm
...you know what? Hold up on the accusations a moment. I want to hear the rest of this.+1
Pinch nose bridge. "Right. Very good. Thank you, William."
"What exactly did that captain tell you?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 09:59:11 pm
"I figured it out when the Thorntons arrived, but by then you had pissed me off, so a little wargame seemed in order." With a voice full of reproach, "Maybe if you had just come yourself instead of sending some dipshit to try and arrest me, I wouldn't have bothered with the dramatics."
"My men die--" William begins, staring down at Nicole, starting to speak.
"Yes and its a tragedy when a gangster gets killed -- at least it wasn't for drugs and money this time!" Nicole snaps, shooting a glare his way. "Boo-hoo, twelve of your trained killers got killed. Get over it."
"You...you got people killed--" You start, staring at her.
Nicole raises an eyebrow at you, "If I wanted to win that city would be burning rubble, with your Warmachines trapped within. Consider it a lesson. How you can hold a city with nothing but desperate Outlanders against the best force in the world. We can deal with whatever petty psychological damage it causes you later. Now untie me -- my real leg feels numb."
"We...we learned a lot..." William mumbles, rubbing at his face with a sigh.
Post by: Superdorf on June 05, 2020, 10:40:20 pm
We can't ignore her, and we can't kill her off... but perhaps we can use her.
I'm inclined to assign Nicole an advisory role within Stormmont-- cut her off from her old base of power, avail ourself of her experience while we're at it. What say you?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 05, 2020, 11:27:53 pm
"Good to see you back, William." Emma offers cheerfully -- but her eyes are fixed on Nicole. Dark and glaring, cold as ice. "Nicole."
"Emeralda Thornton. Your eyes are different."
"I'm an [angel] now." Emma retorts, sharply.
"You'll always be a [demon] -- you forget I knew your mother, darling. And between the two of them, your mother was the worst." Nicole offers, a little too pleasantly. Emma takes a step forward, her meek willpower gathering about her. William doesn't respond verbally -- he rises, crossing over to her. With a gentle, guiding hand, and a nudge of his willpower, the two leave.
"William and Emma?"
There's no use hiding it -- both radiate a strangeness, an otherworldliness that is hard not to notice. You nod.
"Two snakes turned into [angels]. SEED bless you. Emma is acting a bit cold. Have a falling out?" Nicole quietly, maternally questions.
[2 vs 13] It's hard not to nod.
"She didn't deserve you, darling. It takes a spider to know one and that girl is a spider -- first loves are the hardest, though. I didn't have to worry about it. Mine got ripped apart by his Infected pa'." Nicole reminisces, trying to relate.
"I'm still deciding whether or not to kill you, you know." You snap, bluntly.
"And I'll play the part of your grandmother until you decide to, Pheobe." And there's a sincerity in those words that threatens to break your heart.
Post by: ZBridges on June 06, 2020, 02:58:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 06, 2020, 04:06:52 am
"What role do you see yourself having here?"+1
Post by: The Canadian kitten on June 06, 2020, 10:40:06 am
+ 1"What role do you see yourself having here?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 06, 2020, 03:53:21 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 06, 2020, 04:51:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 06, 2020, 06:04:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 06, 2020, 07:28:35 pm
"What is the purpose of having or adopting children in politics?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 06, 2020, 09:31:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 06, 2020, 09:58:28 pm
"SEED damnit, I want to know something I built outlives me."
Post by: ZBridges on June 06, 2020, 10:07:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 06, 2020, 10:36:37 pm
--it means every bit as much to her as it once did to us.
This is the heart of Nicole Gainer.
...
...let's not rush this moment.
"I... I understand." Sigh. "I understand. Thank you."
"I'm not in this for the power, you know. I never was."
We could finish untying her, if you see fit. I do not believe she bears us any ill will.
Post by: ZBridges on June 06, 2020, 11:31:50 pm
Post by: King Zultan on June 07, 2020, 04:05:55 am
"I understand, and there is a place for you here as my advisor. Where is the Pontifex and Tyler Hop, and can you send messages to any remaining rebels to surrender?"+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 07, 2020, 04:16:12 am
I'm not really feeling that warm and fuzzy for a mass murderer that killed our soldiers because she felt slighted.Agreed.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 07, 2020, 07:08:44 pm
"I want you as my advisor." You murmur, drawing away from her and hardening your heart. "Where is the Pontifex?"
"In an incinerator's ash bin," Nicole states, staring at the ceiling, her gaze darkening as she looks away from you. "He told me you were insane -- tried to kill him after he tried to use you. The poor boy thought I would be sympathetic."
You blink, and are shocked at how unsurprised you are by the confession of his assassination. "And where is Tyler Hop?"
"Granddaughter, I may care for you greatly, but I fear for your life if you think plotting be as simple as knocking over the metaphorical chessboard. I have a question in return -- what would Tyler Hop do if you tried to seize him? And what would Tyler Hop do, if, out of the green I called him and said for him to stand down? Would he trust me to be of a right mind? Or would he think that I was as good as dead?"
"Is there any rebel factions yo--"
"Once again -- you overestimate and make a fool of yourself." Nicole's voice is suddenly harsh as she turns a dark gaze on you. "Do you think that all people are of like mind? That, once unchained all Hounds can be neatly gathered? People who are in rebellion against you have their own motives for doing so. People are not a united front. If they have a grievance, do you think that they will put that aside because I asked nicely?"
"Well, what about their locat--"
"This is why. This is why you need hard lessons, Pheobe." Nicole suddenly barks, angry. "Do you think people are stupid? Do you think you're the smartest person on this world? I've been captured. This is a fact that has been assumed since the Thorntons laid siege to Steelworks. Any allies that did not help me hold the city have long since found new hiding holes."
You slump in silence, staring at your angry grandmother. "I...I understand." You finally murmur. "I understand...thank you." Nicole's anger subsides, and her straining form slumps against the restraints. You rise, finding a penknife in your room and use it to cut through the restraints. She slowly sits up, rubbing blood into her wrists as she fixes you with a cold stare. You return it, rising to your feet as she does. "I was never in this for the power..." You sigh.
"I'd be disappointed in you if you were." You brace yourself when she takes a step forward, then another, and another -- until she wraps her arms awkwardly around you in a tight hug. "I haven't been there for you as much as I should have been, Pheobe. I'm sorry." She pulls away, looking down at you. "You've been through a lot, haven't you, Pheobe?"
[1] You don't know how it happens, but that drives you into sobs. You hide your face in her shirt as emotions unbidden flood your eyes. She doesn't say a word, doesn't judge for what you see as a weakness. While awkward and ill-suited for providing comfort, she tries her best, giving you hesitant pats on the back and murmuring what she thinks are gentle words of encouragement.
She's quite awful at it, really.
When you finish, you pull away, and Nicole pulls a handkerchief from one of her pockets, using it to wipe at your face and clear beneath your red eyes. "Now, answer me truthfully, do you want me as an advisor? Or would it be better to keep me in house arrest or kill me?" There is no fear in her voice, no concern for her own well-being. "I'm not going to be one of those toadies who fears you if you want me to advise you. I'm not William and Emma -- I'll put my boot in your ass if you need it."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 07, 2020, 07:14:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 07:18:48 pm
"You have not capitulated. Do you intend to start your own government or become part of mine?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 07, 2020, 07:20:50 pm
"You have not capitulated. Do you intend to start your own government or become part of mine?"didn’t she answer already?
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 07:22:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 07, 2020, 07:23:56 pm
The next image that fills the screen is a picture of you, older, more grim-faced, fires raging around you. Beneath your laughing visage is 'ALPHIRA SOL, PRINCESS OF THE PIRATE KING ALPHIAS SOL.' 'WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE', 'ONE HUNDRED MILLION CREDIT REWARD', 'PIRACY, GENOCIDE, DESTRUCTION OF FIFTY EMPYREAL NAVY VESSELS, HIGH TREASON AGAINST THE ENDLESS.', 'LAST KNOWN LOCATION:FLEEING THE BATTLE OF THE WALL'.
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 07:25:16 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 07, 2020, 07:35:55 pm
She said she wanted to be our advisor, but if she hasn't capitulated, then it's not clear whether she intends to surrender the district to us or not.She explained when can’t do that. There are various rebel groups, each of which have their own reasons for rebelling. To me it looks like we need to organize a meeting to talk about why each of the various parties rebelled. Continuing the siege and taking it by force ensures they will start rebelling later
Yes, Alphira committed great atrocities, but she has ceased to exist. She has already been punished for her crimes through death.regardless of what was done in the past, we need to focus on what’s happening now, which is rebellion in a district by multiple parties. Seizing the place by force will not address their grievances, and they will rebel again if those grievances are not addressed.
We still need to make an economy, begin trade, fight the plague, construct/use mines to produce resources for use/trade and many other things, not only do we need to defeat the plague, we have a country to run while doing so
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 07:41:41 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 07, 2020, 07:49:17 pm
This last part I’m assuming means she will tell us when we’re wrong/making a poor decision, Hugh I am not the best at idiom interpretation
The purpose of advisors are to advise us, not tell us everything we’re doing is perfect. The more advisors we have, the more perspectives we gain
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 07:51:24 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 10:02:36 pm
I do want you as an advisor+1. "I value your insight and your willingness to speak truth to me."
Post by: Superdorf on June 07, 2020, 10:07:09 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 07, 2020, 10:09:31 pm
Post by: King Zultan on June 08, 2020, 04:39:29 am
+1I do want you as an advisor+1. "I value your insight and your willingness to speak truth to me."
lets just leave the house arrest to not letting her leave, especial since last time we punished someone we ripped off his arm.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 08, 2020, 06:47:29 pm
"William and Emma, I wanted your recommendations on what punishment Nicole should receive. Your soldiers are the ones that lost their lives capturing her -- you should have a say."
"Death." Emma states, with finality. She didn't even have to hesitate -- but she continues after looking at you. "But William told me what the situation is. No one besides us knows what really happened in the Steelworks. Publically, no one knows your grandmother tried to rebel. So, instead of her head on a platter -- we want a reward."
"What do you want?"
"Steelworks Number Nine. It rightfully belongs to us anyway."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 08, 2020, 07:24:26 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 08, 2020, 07:34:55 pm
I deem this transaction... acceptable. If any here deems otherwise, ancient voice or honored host: I ask that you speak.
Post by: ZBridges on June 08, 2020, 07:56:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 08, 2020, 09:01:44 pm
...its a document detailing plans to turn Steelworks Number Nine, to be known as Thornig after the war, into a district dedicated to the production of Warmachines, also known as Void Operation Troops. Looms, Algae Tanks, Integrated Circuitry Factories, Behavioral Modification Tanks, Las-gun factories -- all built using labor paid in subsistence wages. A brutal, grinding program of military modernization, with a massive bunker complex and surface-level fortress included. Within ten years, they expect full regiments of fanatic Warmachines to be produced in a matter of months...
The other documents show how this would be possible, how for the short term, they would use contracted Outlanders working at subsistence wages, to be paid a nice bundle of credits after they finish. They would also grant unused land to these Outlanders, and lay a huge claim on the Outlands themselves. After production of requisite facilities, they would use Loomed and Automated Labor to reach the required level of development.
Following that, they would use rapid-growth loom techniques to produce -blanks-, which would then be indoctrinated as basic soldiers. These blanks, would, if need be, placed into cryogenic storage until necessary. Every tenth Warmachine would be a Loomed Commander, which will require a different, hands-on training program, lead by former soldiers. These programs are, apparently, on the cube as well, attached to the blueprints for the Cognitive Behavior Pods.
One of the details you notice, however, is the lifespan of the rank and file 'blanks' -- the rapid growth program, where the subject is brought to maturity in a matter of weeks apparently results in an incredibly short lifespan for a baseline human. Whereas Homo Fundamentum has a lifespan averaging at one hundred and fifty -- these individuals will have one of thirty years. All downtime and VOID travel will be spent within a cryo-pod.
Post by: ZBridges on June 08, 2020, 09:22:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 09, 2020, 02:29:25 am
Picture, if you will, a creature born to war.
Raised to war. Doomed to war.
Blood-- fire-- the oblivion of a cryo-pod. These SEEDlings will know nothing else.
They will accept this as their lot. They will be trained after the fashion of zealots. They will live for the story they're told.
They will die with smiles on their lips.
What will their minds be like, that they are made in this way? They are children, trained to the slaughter.
They will be fiercely alien. Worse: they will be mightily, irrevocably human.
Human.
...
Is this ethical?
By no means.
Is this necessary?
I believe so.
Against the Plague, much can be justified. Much can be justified-- so long as we understand what we do, and remember always why we do it. This is key.
This is key.
Post by: King Zultan on June 09, 2020, 03:33:33 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 09, 2020, 03:14:39 pm
"This looks like just what we need to defeat the Plague. Feel free to let me know if there is anything I can do to help you make this a reality."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 09, 2020, 04:01:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 09, 2020, 04:12:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 09, 2020, 04:21:15 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 09, 2020, 04:22:58 pm
"Incredible... you have designs on the Void?"
+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 09, 2020, 04:58:06 pm
"Incredible... you have designs on the Void?"can you explain the purpose of the question?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 09, 2020, 05:05:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 09, 2020, 05:40:46 pm
"However, if you don't have a similar plan, what are your intentions for all these soldiers?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 09, 2020, 08:26:17 pm
"My deepest and most secret hope is that we could teach the Empyreal nobles some manners. If the Rim was united, and if we leveraged the remaining pirate fleets, we could prevent actions like destroying entire planets. Perhaps it would even be possible to restore the Endless Emperor/Empress, who is either dead or sleeping at the hands of the nobles. In the process, we would seed our civilization throughout the stars and demonstrate a different way to govern and protect."i think the if you don’t have. Similar plan bit ao8nds bad, but I can’t really explain, I think it makes us so8nd...is arrogant the right word?
"However,if you don't have a similar plan,what are your intentions for all these soldiers?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 09, 2020, 09:44:09 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 09, 2020, 11:14:14 pm
I wasn't expecting that. It's rather touching.
...anyway.
To bring justice against the Empyre would be a noble cause-- but I do not wish to forget our promise to SEED. What becomes of this world's people, when we leave to war among the stars? Does our bind to SEED's children end with the Plague's destruction?
So too... I have not forgotten our old dream.
Peace. Contentment. Our heir deserves better, than to be bound forever to war.
...
φοῖνιξ.
This is not our choice to make, godling. Where do your loyalties lie? What do you want of this life?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 10, 2020, 12:39:13 am
"What are your intentions with them?" You question instead of directly answering the question, and Emma nods, as if she expected this.
"Insurance. This planet...you made a vow to protect it--but there are horrors in the Void. Pirates. Infection. Armies and empires untold that wish to ravage and steal and take. We are safe by your presence alone -- but your death hangs like a sword above our heads." Emma begins, breathing in and out as she takes a step away from you. "You'll never be free if you fear for this world and its people. I wanted to create shepards to protect the beasts of burden. But...besides that--"
Emma breathes out a shaky breath, looking you right in the eye. "You're broken. An Abomination."
"Oh?" Your willpower suddenly coils tight around you like a beast ready to pounce -- William shifts forward in response, but doesn't say anything. Emma's willpower coils and knots in on itself, shifting and breaking apart like grains of sand in the wind. She doesn't meet your gaze. "Alphira figured it out?" You question, quietly.
"I figured it out. And I don't blame you...but...but..." Emma sighs, tears pricking at her eyes. "Tell me Pheobe -- where do you find the most joy? Where do you feel alive?" When you open your mouth to speak, she cuts you off, "And don't lie to me. I've earned that much."
You stay silent. The elevator door opens, but you simply stare at Emma
"You were born to war. Raised to war. Alphira and you...you were both made for it. And you're doomed to it. Do you know what I've seen, Pheobe? Patches of peace between storms of war. Fire. Death. Blood-- broken only by the oblivion of pain relievers and coma." Emma shifts, twisting at her coat. "And I don't know if you can chang--"
"[You cannot.]" Cephie emerges from the elevator, clad in a towel. William and Emma both do double-takes, surprised. "I came to borrow some clothes!" She exclaims with a small smile that twists into a rictus grin as she strides towards the collection. "[But your Oracle has a point. You're cursed, Pretty Pheonix. We all are. But you've got it bad. Too many issues not to have a problem in that ]fucked up[ brain of your's. Despite the paths we might choose to follow, despite our wants and our willpower. There's a price for Ascendence--one we must all pay.]"
"[The Deathwish.]" They say it as one, quietly, coldly.
"[We cannot kill ourselves. Not directly. Never once have I thought of suicide. It used to be on my mind allllll the time.]" Cephie explains, passing you by to enter your room and steal your clothing. Calling out in High Empyreal, "[But what do we do when we're a thousand-- two thousand years old? And the Empyre has passed us by? What do we do when all that we've loved has crumbled to death around us? When our battles have been for nothing, when time loses meaning besides a way to count all that we've lost? ]"
She emerges in a sloppy SEED uniform, adjusting the buttons and tightening the belts. "[The eldest of our kind begin to seek an honorable death. They begin to fight battles with worse and worse odds. They throw themselves into the fray without regard for their health.]" Cephie turns to look at you, eyes moist as she looks through you. "[When they are bleeding, wounded, and broken -- they lift themselves up by willpower alone to return to the fray. A bright candle burning at both ends to throw away their remaining time.]"
"[Our kind does not die comfortably in bed, surrounded by loved ones. That is the price for Ascendence. Comfort. I saw Conquest depicted in her power...There was a sharpened sword above her head...That hung there by the thinnest simple thread..]" Cephie takes a seat, yawning and stretching out. "So what got us on to the morbid topic?"
Your anger boiled over at some point. That much you know -- but William and Cephie were ready. Nothing was damaged, but you've left them behind to soar through the cold winter air, into the ruins of the city-state. Your blood pounds in your ears. Lucille is still adjusting herself to your frame, but you pay her no mind.
What powers should I experiment with?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 10, 2020, 12:52:53 am
Post by: Superdorf on June 10, 2020, 01:19:17 am
I'd rather not risk our cohesion on dustwork right now-- and at any rate, I can't help but feel we're here to break something.
Take up the will of McCreary, godling: rend the earth, as you did against your last Colossus. Spikes and chasms.
Post by: King Zultan on June 10, 2020, 02:22:57 am
Dust manifestation. Condense your will and project a new arm, as you would with your wings. Lose yourself in exertion.+1 It is time for experimentation.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 10, 2020, 08:20:56 am
Protecting the planet sounds like a good use of the Warmachines. Can someone explain why we’re ready to break things?Dust manifestation. Condense your will and project a new arm, as you would with your wings. Lose yourself in exertion.+1 It is time for experimentation.
Post by: Superdorf on June 10, 2020, 11:31:21 am
You are furious.
Phoenix is... letting off some steam.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 10, 2020, 11:36:25 am
Makes senseYou are furious.
Phoenix is... letting off some steam.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 12, 2020, 05:02:18 am
The reason you came here is not to reminisce over fallen friends. From above you saw the scurrying of the Plague as they dug through rubble, searching for technology to steal or corpses to devour. And you've come to put a stop to whatever fell purpose they have. Not out of selflessness, no, but out of burning anger.
[20] Even then, you may have gone a little overboard...
Your arm doesn't return, no matter how much you might try. There must be a natural deterrent in the semi-organic programming of your artificial body. Why? You cannot begin to question. The datapad might have answers for you in the future -- or perhaps Magnus or Cephie could provide such an answer. As for now -- it doesn't work. If your theory and memory are correct, you are a collection of nanites as opposed to a true physical entity. You let fire twist itself to life at your back, upon your empty shoulder, and you focus on the hand that is intact...
[10][18][20]
...and you unravel it into Dust, into Essence, into black particles constrained within a field of your Willpower. They twist and writhe of their own volition, but the struggle is brief. You capture particles of hydrogen between these new reference points and ignite them with minute bursts of electrical energy that your body discharges. A sudden gout of flame burns away the empty cloth surrounding your hand -- and Lucille stiffens the joints of your armor, keeping the glove locked in place.
With a silent flex of your faint blue claws, you smile. Then you begin to compress the hydrogen, feeding the flames until they glow brightly in what dull light shines down through the dull clouds of ash and snow. Faint trails of ice drift down, only to melt away upon approaching your twin claws of fire.
You approach the group of Infected, not bothering to hide as you stroll down the street with a purposeful air. Lines of heat drift out into the cold air, making it shimmer with the difference. Lucille deflects a las-gun shot from your torso --
[7][13][13] And after a brief strain of your willpower, you shred the ground open in front of you to devour those bold enough to fire upon an Angel. The roadway rips itself apart, splitting with a massive crack and a faint rumble of the earth. Savage spikes lance out from the walls to impale the falling Abominations, skewering them through.
-- but you're bored with them. A Colossus screams a static hiss, the ground quaking and shaking as it leverages its immense body through the ruined streets, knocking down what little remains standing as it carves a path of destruction. You turn, waiting patiently, your claws of fire twitching impatiently. You tense your leg muscles, slowly building the pressure of the hydrogen within your wings.
[12 vs. 7] It crashes through a building, and slams a gray tentacle down to crush you -- but you were ready. You lift your claws and catch the flailing appendage with fire and energy as opposed to weak flesh. You feel a shockwave through your arms, your legs, your muscles and bones- but flex against it. Then, with a sudden twist of Willpower, you burn through the armor and flesh of the fell worm --
-- and you throw the severed tentacle to the side as its beady, leech black eyes survey the data you just provided it. Could it express emotion besides rage and hunger, you would think it was surprised. You stare up at it, a figure of gold and black, with glowing claws of flame and seven burning wings that dull the sun's own brilliance. Black viscera drips down your facemask, staining the grinning androgynous, angelic carving with stinking ichor. This feels good. This feels right. This -scum- deserves death. These are your people -- and if it thinks it can do with them what it wills without your permission? There's going to be repercussions.
[||||||\]
Is it wrong that I enjoy this? Does that make me a monster? Does it make me a MONSTER THAT I WANT TO RIP OUT ITS GODSDAMNED ORGANS THROUGH THAT TRAVESTY OF A MOUTH?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 12, 2020, 05:22:31 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 12, 2020, 07:35:42 am
Post by: Superdorf on June 12, 2020, 09:39:37 am
Wreak your fury. Exult in it. It is yours.
...mind your wound.
Post by: ZBridges on June 12, 2020, 11:27:39 am
Sever more tentacles.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 13, 2020, 10:13:34 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 13, 2020, 10:16:26 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 13, 2020, 10:59:24 pm
((No worries, real life takes priority. Take as long as you need.))
But yah, sleep's important. Take care of yourself Egar. :)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 16, 2020, 11:52:52 pm
[19 vs. 5][2] The Colossus finishes sizing you up, but you were expecting it. You leap out of the way, trying to summon the Willpower to strike the beast with fire. However, your arithmetic runs into a problem-- instead you hack and slash the offending tentacles, slicing them away. Black ichor splatters the paving stones as you size up the creature for another strike.
[||||||.]
[7 vs. 10][6] It twists back in pain, rearing up to face you with a lash of its tentacles and a guttural snarl that brings down more mortar and brick from the broken houses nearby. It begins to produce static, hissing heavily to try and dampen your formulas and ruin your concentration. It works, the noise, the vibrations in the air, they distract you, stabbing deep into your central nervous system. You grit your teeth, and, with a release of stored hydrogen through your wings, you lunge at the creature.
[5 vs. 20] [1 vs. 18] [12] Your thigh snaps as you are batted out of the sky and sent spiraling into the street. You catch yourself, rolling with the attack. With pained gasps, you take hold of your leg -- Lucille protected you from the Infection, thank all the gods. All you have to show for the brutal swipe is a broken thigh bone and a few bruises from your rolling fall.
[18-1] Granted distance by the creature's rage, you drag yourself to your feet, biting down hard to stifle your scream of pain as your thigh bone is snapped back into place and mended by your Essence. With shaky breaths, you eye the creature as it coils itself down the street to chase after it's prey.
[2-1 vs 2] You lunge again as it nears you -- but with a flex, a convulsion of its ugly muscles, a burst of lightning lashes out into the cold air, striking you in the chest. Your breath catches as you fall back, panic surging up as your muscles tense and seize from the voltage pouring through them. Your armor deflects most of it and begins to breathe for you as you crouch--
[20 vs. 1] Tentacles lash down -- only to find you missing. A sudden burst of speed as you force hydrogen into your wings, propelling you straight into the creature's torso. Claws first. You burn a grievous wound, the size of your body, into the beast as you rip and tear your way through its 'chest'. It screams and it static fails it in its pain.
[|||....]
[12 vs. 6] The tide turns as you pivot, firing forward with your wings and dragging your 'claws' into its back, scoring it with burns and savage rends. Ichor follows your path as you force the dull edges of your 'claws' through its skin and armor. Your arms ache from the exertion -- even if the flesh sublimates the instant your talons touch it.
[||.....]
[2 vs. 2] It swats at you, scoring its back and slamming you into its fleshy torso. It does not penetrate your armor, thankfully, and you dig your claws in deeper, twisting and squirming them in retort. It screams again as you pull yourself away from those razor-tipped appendages, glad to be no worse for the wear.
[|......]
It slumps as ichor pours from the horrid wounds you, and itself, inflicted on its armored flesh. The street below your feet has a pool of its blood spreading wider and wider. It collapses with rasping breaths, its eyes turning to find your face as it weakly scrabbles to reach you. Its ichor drips from the orifice you would call its mouth. Rage still boils within you, even if you're coated in a thick layer of its blood and viscera. You approach, twisting your claws, feeling powerful. This is where you belong -- standing above your maimed foe.
[20 vs. 18] "BEG." You roar, slamming your claws into its face and dragging it up to 'look' at you. "I -own- this planet, Plague. And I will rip you apart to protect it. BEG!" Its tentacles curl upward weakly as the feral spark leaves its eyes. It twists its 'facial' appendages, miming a very human begging motion.
[19 vs. 20] You hesitate. You were just talking trash -- but this creature is actually begging for its life.
Your mercy doesn't last long -- you kill it by extending your claw and ripping its face apart with a gout of black and brain. You drop the corpse and stagger back, slumping down as you stare at the lifeless abomination in front of you.
What now?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 17, 2020, 12:18:38 am
Engage healing factor and then try to overwhelm an infected with your will, leaving it either compliant or broken. Then, freeze it solid.
Post by: King Zultan on June 17, 2020, 03:44:47 am
The plague deserves no mercy.+1 Sounds good, and after that find more plague things to kill.
Engage healing factor and then try to overwhelm an infected with your will, leaving it either compliant or broken. Then, freeze it solid.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 17, 2020, 06:16:45 am
+1 for finding more plague hosts to kill, but I don’t think we can convert something we killed, we can freeze it though, nvm, rereading this mentions finding another to try this with, +1 to allThe plague deserves no mercy.+1 Sounds good, and after that find more plague things to kill.
Engage healing factor and then try to overwhelm an infected with your will, leaving it either compliant or broken. Then, freeze it solid.
Post by: Superdorf on June 17, 2020, 09:49:11 am
Hold, elders.
This is what you are capable of, daughter-of-Sol-- this and more. This is the power that makes you a god to this world.
Now, I ask: can you be all this, and remember still what is dear to you? Can you be all this, and remember still the identity you have built for yourself these three years?
Your Ascendancy will tear you apart, φοῖνιξ, if you cannot. It will strip away your humanity, and leave you a monster in truth. A [demon].
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 17, 2020, 12:46:20 pm
[17][20]
First, you knit your hand back together. The process is complicated, but, when you remember what your hand looked like, how it felt, how it operated, the fire goes out, and the dust twists itself back into the shape of your flesh and bone. For a second, when your concentration breaks, flames start to spread up your arm, but you regain control of the arithmetic before the damage can spread. With a heavy breath, you flex your pale fingers.
[18] You heal the minor bruises and scratches across your body, and finish patching the hole in your chest. You decide to take a look -- and between your breasts, laterally, is a line of ugly, pink scar tissue.
[8 vs 6]
[16 vs 4]
The Abomination you approach is mindless -- it huddles in the shade against the cold, its twisted parody of a human face turning towards you as you approach. It makes to lunge but stops within its tracks as you bring your will to bear against it. It's a struggle at first, eventually, it stills, staring at you blankly. Its gnashing teeth and cloven jaw working at nothing. You step closer, and it doesn't respond to your body temperature as long as you keep up the pressure of your willpower. You pat it gently, delicately, with a finger.
Nothing.
[20] You thought that freezing something would be much more difficult than heating something up. Surprisingly, it isn't. While your area of effect is small -- its still large enough that you can still the atoms of hydrogen bound up in the molecules of water within the Abomination's throat. You force the formula with your anger-- and the creature goes still as faint frost forms on around its neck. It sways, then collapses, and, with a faint shatter, its head tumbles away.
I dare say that worked well. I can't freeze its entire body, though. I don't think I'm strong enough to literally slow down or stop the motion of all the hydrogen.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on June 17, 2020, 02:12:07 pm
Whatever your choice in the coming years, φοῖνιξ, we will see it through-- but if you wish to save this world still, you shall have to cling to your humanity a while longer yet. Your people need you whole.
Now... purge this ruin. Finish your work.
Post by: ZBridges on June 17, 2020, 03:50:43 pm
Ho, there's a trick.+1. Do so by imparting kinetic energy on the hydrogen within the abominations, sending them or parts of their bodies flying away at speed.
Whatever your choice in the coming years, φοῖνιξ, we will see it through-- but if you wish to save this world still, you shall have to cling to your humanity a while longer yet. Your people need you whole.
Now... purge this ruin. Finish your work.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 17, 2020, 04:08:50 pm
You can be a greater inspiration alive than dead. Don't be so quick to give in to desperation and despair.I think burning them would be a better option, sending parts flying spreads them and can potentially infect animals that find and ingest the parts. Burning them eliminates that riskHo, there's a trick.+1. Do so by imparting kinetic energy on the hydrogen within the abominations, sending them or parts of their bodies flying away at speed.
Whatever your choice in the coming years, φοῖνιξ, we will see it through-- but if you wish to save this world still, you shall have to cling to your humanity a while longer yet. Your people need you whole.
Now... purge this ruin. Finish your work.
Post by: ZBridges on June 17, 2020, 04:19:18 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 17, 2020, 05:37:39 pm
By encountering new ways to use our powers, we increase our versatility and survivability. If we just burned everything to death, the plague would adapt and eventually render that useless.this is fair, I’m worried about potentially spreading it, like if vultures or Barkers found the resulting pieces and ate them, there;d be plague vultures and Barkers. That’s why I suggested burning, as that’s a sure way to stop the pieces from causing infections, though thinking about it now, the heat from moving all those hydrogen atoms would likely still end up burning the parts
Post by: ZBridges on June 17, 2020, 06:38:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 17, 2020, 10:07:39 pm
You find a few abominations clustered together, and, from the air, you try to fling them apart by imparting kinetic energy into their flesh. It's not as visceral as you hope for -- they fly back dramatically but are otherwise intact. Two of them do, at least. The third lumbers towards you stupidly, reaching out with its gnarled hands to try and grab at your feet.
[17]
That one you focus on. Using hydrogen in two different sides of its body as reference points, you twist them away from each other with a sudden force-- and bones crack as the pressure of its vital fluids rips against one another. It slumps down, dead-- but there's no visceral removal of limbs or explosion of gore. The two you sent flying huddle together in a crook, against the wind, having seemingly lost sight of or interest in you. The look no worse for the wear-- besides maybe some bruising from you flinging them away.
Can't I just drop this city in a hole? Killing every abomination is going to take all day-- I've already lost like three of them.
Post by: Superdorf on June 17, 2020, 10:44:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 17, 2020, 10:49:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 17, 2020, 11:30:56 pm
[11][19][15]
Gathering up the maximum amount of material you can lift, roughly [two thousand and four hundred kilograms] of silicon, you begin to lift yourself, and it up. Up, and up, and up, pushing yourself higher and higher, focusing on the lift of your wings and the heavy material that strains against your willpower.
[Pull up an altimeter, Lucille.]
[14][14][10]
It's a struggle to lift this much material, but you manage, until your altimeter chimes in at [20 miles]. You push yourself a little higher-- the air is freezing here, and the reaction to sustain your wings begin to falter as the oxygen thins.
[25 miles]
[13][4][5]
You cannot sustain it any longer as your stomach growls angerily with the strain on your calories. You're lightheaded with hunger -- and decide to cut your losses. You sever your willpower -- and the rough orb of silicon drops, gathering speed, faster and faster, hitting terminal velocity. You can see the explosion from where you gently hover down -- a small cloud of deterius flying up into space from the impact to meet you.
The city center where you fought is a crater, and small fires burn across the remaining blocks. There's a cloud of ash and dust drifting down, and you drop on to some rubble in the outskirts, polishing off the last of your nutrient cubes -- your stomach still rumbles as you survey the damage. You've leveled half the small city, reducing it to a crater with the energy of the dropped rock.
By my math, that rock had about [7.57549590924 × 108 joules of energy or 1.5kt of TNT] on impact.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 17, 2020, 11:39:06 pm
Return to Stormmont.
Post by: Superdorf on June 17, 2020, 11:57:44 pm
I've come to realize, Phoenix... I have no idea what you're capable of. Again and again you've proven this so-- if you tell me you can work a miracle, I will believe.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 12:08:23 am
...don't speak too soon. I think I overdid it again. At least this time I'm not bleeding out -- or stuck on the bottom of an ocean. With shaky feet, and a glance to the north from where you came, you begin the long trek back to Stormmont. Night falls as you trudge through fallow fields covered in snow and ash. A farmhouse sits here or there, but they are all empty -- besides the corpses that could not escape the blast. The food stores have been ruined by the wet, the radiation, the freezing cold, and burning heat -- picked clean of anything substantial by scavengers.
[18] You come across a small manor, behind a wall of concrete and barbed wire. Rotting corpses sit at their posts, bones showing through flesh that froze mid-slough. A pang of hunger rumbles within your stomach as you hesitate to enter. A Family Villa, intact from the earthquakes and rending of the earth from SEED's self-destruction. There is no gunshot to meet you, so you step closer to the gate.
You hesitate. There might be bandits, or Infected, or a renegade Family within.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 12:14:51 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 12:17:45 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 12:18:47 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 12:25:30 am
[-] There's no reply.
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 12:31:30 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 12:42:38 am
With a kick, the locked door shatters inward, breaking free from the frame. You step inside the poorly lit room, your eyes adjusting to capture all the light possible. Lucille runs a scan as you shut the door on the cold against you. Inside, perhaps due to the low power reactor, is warm. You drift through the upper levels, and find a huge fridge -- that's completely empty, besides for empty boxes and detritus. Molding leaves of green vegetables, rotten potatoes and [carrots], old dried meat with mold on it that might poison even you.
[13] A heartbeat pings on your scanner -- and you try to dive to the ground. Too late, however, as a las-gun blast lances into your broken backplate, rupturing flesh and turning your blood to steam. The pain rips through your system as you twist into cover. It numbs rapidly, even as your blood begins to drip to the floor in heavy rivulets.
"That was a warning shot!" A male's voice calls to you from outside the fridge.
"Damn accurate for a warning shot."
"Maybe you shouldn't have been in my Family's larder then, you [punk, looter, hooligan]!"
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 12:47:23 am
Post by: Superdorf on June 18, 2020, 01:02:06 am
Heal, if possible.
If needs must, a bit of hydrogen twisted in the brain ought to kill that one swift and easy. One of Alphira's pirate tricks, yes?
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 01:13:14 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 01:17:42 am
You glance down -- besides for the new splotches of red on your armor, you're completely covered in black ichor and dust. Your golden armor doesn't shine too brightly.
"Are you a crazy or something? Come out with your hands up -- or the next shot won't miss!" He didn't miss at all -- you reach back, feeling at the edges of your new wound. It's about [six inches] across, a sore rupture of mangled flesh on your left shoulder. He's scared or worried, that much is true. Fear edges his voice, and he breathes deeply.
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 01:20:27 am
Send out our will to pacify him and try to remember anything about his Family, such as whether they were relocated.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 04:17:12 am
[9-5] You try to pacify him with your willpower, but your hunger, exhaustion, and bloodloss gets the better of you-- you see stars and stumble. He twitches, but doesn't fire-- and his eyes widen. "SEED have mercy, I didn't wing you-- holy [hell]." He doesn't lower the weapon, keeping it fixed on you as you peel your helmet off and let it tumble from your fingers. You try to give him a pleasant smile but it probably comes off more like a grimace.
[16] "SEED have mercy I shot Alphira--" He lowers the gun, calling out to someone else in the house to fetch vodka and bandages. You stumble into his hands and he drags you into the former living room, pushing you face down on a couch. He peels away the shattered armor, delicately setting it to one side. Everything blurs for a minute -- until pain awakens you as he presses the vodka soaked bandage to your ruptured back. "Shit-- shit.." He repeats, stemming the flow of blood.
"Food. I need-- I need food. Please." You mumble into the couch cushions. You're glad you have an amazing immune system, otherwise you might get an infection from this. A few minutes later, the frantic man is feeding you pieces of dusty nutrient cubes haphazardly chunked into water. Your stomach stops aching after a few bowls and you focus your scattered willpower to healing.
[20-3] Its an effort, but you manage to seal the wound on your back shut for now, and relax into the couch. You rest for an hour, quietly, recovering your strength. You shift forward, rising from your prone position -- the Caltrop man is sitting across from you, eyes full of concern, knuckles white as he kneads his fingers in on themselves.
You give him a crooked smile, slowly sitting up.
"I thought you were a bandit -- or an Infected. I--I didn't think. I'm sorry. Are you going to be okay?" Besides for a faint ache from minor muscle damage, you feel fine. "I've had my little brother draw up a bath for you -- it ain't hot, but we ain't got much in the way of power. Enough to keep some lights on and our water purifier running. I'm Fredrick Caltrop. It's a pleasure to meet you." He pauses, "Now, I know I'm not much of a position to ask this -- but you were mumbling something about a fortress or something nearby? Could me and him take shelter there? We ain't got anything to trade..." There's another nervous pause as he wrings his fingers, "But we're running out of hydrogen."
Your stomach protests as you slowly peel off your armor and set it on the rustic coffee table in front of you, stripping down to your underlay with mechanical, practiced movements. "Yeah. Don't worry. I'll send someone to evac you once I get back." You promise, without a thought, and Fred slumps with relief. The light in the room is dim, but you take a look at the man. He's in that awkward area between a man's teens and thirties. Tall, lanky, a shock of golden hair with brown eyes and pale, tanned skin. He looks a little drawn, but considering the literal apocalypse outside the manor's doors, you could give him a break.
"T-thank you, Alphira." He stammers.
"Could you get me some more food?" You bluntly question, rising.
"Of course -- I've got some beans and grain I've been saving. I'll cook you up something-- It'll be ready when your bath is ready." He ducks his head politely, still wringing his fingers nervously. "Yo-you're awfully accepting of people shooting you."
"I've been shot a lot. I'm starting to think it's the standard greeting on this planet."
"What?"
You wave him off as a youth calls from somewhere upstairs. Fred gives another nod and takes his leave. You follow the young voice, and find a well-appointed bathroom. It isn't as ornate or modern as the Thornton's, consisting only of a bath, a latrine, and a sink, all made out of what looks to be plastic. The youth looks like a carbon copy of his brother, down to the mannerisms. He dips his head and hurries out, and, as soon as you lock the door, you sink into the freezing waters of the tub. It doesn't take you long to wash away the blood and grime of the day, and by the end of it, the water is a faint grey.
There's a knock at the door-- "I've left clothes for you. We look the same height and I figure you'd want to clean your armor and such." Fred calls, and his footsteps recede. You rise, snatching the clothes and dry towel -- everything smells of mold and must, but its better than the acrid chemical smell of the Infection. You pull on the long sleeves and heavy coat, leaving your underlay where it lay as the tub drains with rough, uneven gurgles.
I get shot by nice people too often. I'm starting to think it's a character flaw.
The kitchen is grimy. Trash litters many of the surfaces, bowls and plates clutter the sinks, half-empty alcohol bottles cover the counter-tops. There's a pot of a soupy grain and bean mash on the table, steaming hot and smelling of [juniper] and [rosemary]. You can just tell its going to be salty. But Fred is playing the gracious host. There's clean cutlery on the table, and he insists on serving his guest first. While all the cups have caked on mold, he has a bottle of a vintage wine sitting beside your bowl.
With a sharp nudge of his finger, he jabs his little brother in the side. "Manners -- we're Family-folk. Introduce yourself!"
"Hello Mother Alphira -- I'm Timothy..." The youth gets another nudge in the side, "I'm Timothy Caltrop."
Fred gives a nod, giving you a placating smile as he bows his head and murmurs a prayer to SEED. You're tempted to interrupt but play along, ignoring the grumbling of your stomach. You were right, however, there is way too much salt in this, and way too many herbs. But its warm, and filling, and sticks to your bones against the cold of the night, so you pay him a compliment. By the time the three of you finish with the pot, half of your bottle is empty.
"Do--well, what brought you out here?" Fred questions. "I-I heard you had wings. I didn't expect you to walk, to be truthful. I'm glad you did, don't get me wrong. But it's dangerous out there. Looters and Infected. I've seen things stalking through the fields -- like Hounds, but worse. Seeing more and more of them, too."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on June 18, 2020, 07:56:57 am
Post by: Superdorf on June 18, 2020, 03:20:28 pm
Nod. "Lots of plague about... I was out purging one of their cities. Rough work."
"Grueling work. Flew in-- couldn't fly out. Thought I'd shelter here." (Try for a grin.) "Wasn't expecting the hospitality."
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 03:23:19 pm
We'd have to walk the whole way, under-supplied in infected territory. Quicker and easier for all concerned if we fly home on our own power, then send a hovercraft down for the Caltrop brothers.+1. Yeah, maybe we could accompany the hovercraft, but it wouldn't be wise to walk with them back to the fortress.
Nod. "Lots of plague about... I was out purging one of their cities. Rough work."
"Grueling work. Flew in-- couldn't fly out. Thought I'd shelter here."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 18, 2020, 04:01:20 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 06:47:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 18, 2020, 11:47:29 pm
He sighs, "Probably missed the evacuation if what you're telling me is true -- or got hit by the radiation burst. Him and I were underground when it happened. I think we got spared. Had a bit of sickness, though, for a little while. That...that got me worried. But we seem to have gotten better now." Fred explains, then, slowly, he rises, scooping up his little brother and ticking his head down the stairs. "We're sleeping on the sublevels. We got a blast door and a shelter down there. You're welcome to stay the night-- it's the least I can offer."
You are tired, and the histamines in the wine are not helping your exhaustion. You yawn, rubbing at your face while you consider the Caltrop's offer.
Post by: ZBridges on June 18, 2020, 11:51:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 19, 2020, 12:03:30 am
With a quirk of his lips, he sets his brother down on one of the beds and tucks him in gently, gesturing you over to the heater where a few seats are placed. After adjusting a control panel, he sits down nearby. "I probably could have stopped them -- but I don't blame them. Iunno what I would have done without Tim."
Post by: ZBridges on June 19, 2020, 12:11:24 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 19, 2020, 06:25:53 am
"It was noble of you to be willing to shelter their loved ones. I'm glad I ran into you both, as there is plenty of space in Stormmont. When we return, I will be sure to look into whether your mother, sister, and father were part of the evacuation."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 19, 2020, 03:18:41 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 19, 2020, 03:23:36 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 19, 2020, 03:25:04 pm
"Okay, wake me up when it's my turn."”or if something goes wrong”
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 20, 2020, 12:40:33 am
--
[-] The Planet below is beautiful, and blue, with swirling clouds shining with multicolored hues in the bright light of its white sun. It's setting on the megacity below. It's a massive VOID forward industrial complex -- one that supplies a nearby shipyard with plenty of superalloys, hyper-conductors, and all the other materials needed to keep a VOID-based fleet operational. Three custom outfit Pirate warships hover nearby.
There is no VOID defenses at this moment. This city of a billion souls lies ripe for the slaughter.
"Saga of Discord. We're ready and in position, Alphira."
"Burning Night. Green light."
"Gold Tooth. Golden. Heh, you see what I did the--" Your forward comms office cuts off the transmission before you pop a blood vessel -- or a VOID vessel.
"All escorts are green for engagement. We've laced the hydrogen-antimatter bombs with your nanites, as requested. We're good to go on your orders -- any words to transmit?" She questions, turning to face you in her swivel chair, settling her hands across her lap.
Post by: ZBridges on June 20, 2020, 12:46:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 20, 2020, 04:38:41 am
"Send this to the crew. We'll make the Empyreal Navy cower in fear! Let's make my father proud. Fire! Send them all to Hell!"+1 To burninating the helpless
Post by: Superdorf on June 20, 2020, 09:19:20 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 20, 2020, 12:06:27 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 20, 2020, 12:14:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 21, 2020, 12:17:15 am
[65][52][37]
Scattered throughout the vessel are small vials -- semi-organic relays, designed to keep your nanites alive for extended periods of time. You route your willpower through one, then another and another, stretching it further and further out, until it engulfs the ship.A complex spiderweb designed to amplify and spread it out. You route power from the engines, pushing it into an array at the bottom of the ship--
Expanding, folding, routing, until you no longer feel connected to your physical body -- no, you are the ship.
The Wings of Sol's Retribution, or, Retribution opens fire. Missiles sparkle as they fall to the planet below. Through your array, you can reach into them. You overexcited the hydrogen, sending it careening wildly with extra charge.
The impacts are visible from space. Hydrogen antimatter explodes out from the already critical shells, excited by your willpower's agitation. It spreads further, higher, deeper. The sheer amount of energy suddenly being released rips away the atmosphere in the region. Fire spreads out haphazardly as it burns, rippling like waves over a pond before the laws of thermodynamics can even recognize the trespass. It tears the earth asunder as continents rip themselves apart, and sends plumes of choking dust and ash into the sky.
You can do no more, and open your eyes to watch the lightshow. Blues and yellows burn into the VOID as the Megacity below is scoured by temperatures higher than most suns. And in the next instant, as if nothing ever happened, it goes out. The blue ocean is poisoned gray and black. The atmosphere is torn asunder. The multi-colored clouds are blacker than pitch.
Six billion have died in all but an instant. The other three billion inhabitants spread across the world will die in the next few days, this planet their ash-banked tomb. You watch, quietly, then -- "Send one of my probes."
It's a painful sacrifice, each eye you give to a probe -- but you want to ensure the job is done.
[-]The world below the ash-choked skies is ruined. Where the megacity once lay is now a jagged wound in the crust of the world. Ocean water pours into the gap. Steam and smoke rise into the air -- and you open your eye when the probe fails -- burning away.
"Put up a memorial beacon -- let all know our reasons. For Blackport. An eye for an eye. A tooth for a tooth. Tobias Hattlecut will suffer. By Alphira Sol, Daughter of the Pirate King Alphias Sol, in charge of -- " you list your ship, then the three escorts in list of their rank or seniorit--
[13] Somebody jars you awake. "Your turn." Fred firmly states, extending the rifle your way. You take it with a nod, leaving to sit on the roof and meditate as the sun rises over the blasted land of ash and snow. Fresh tracks, like a Barker's foot, are nearby, you notice. The two corpses of the guards are both gone. The gate has been chewed on, in a place.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 21, 2020, 12:30:50 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 21, 2020, 06:52:35 am
Follow the tracks, unless they lead away from the house.+1 But we should alert the people here of what we see and also close the gate behind us.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 21, 2020, 06:57:46 am
+1Follow the tracks, unless they lead away from the house.+1 But we should alert the people here of what we see and also close the gate behind us.
Post by: Superdorf on June 21, 2020, 11:15:31 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 21, 2020, 11:42:09 am
I... imagine Fred would've told us if the beast in question was still here. We'd just be distracting ourselves from the vigil, trying to chase it down.Oh right
Continue watching for any threats, such as Infected, bandits, barkers, etc.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 21, 2020, 04:07:47 pm
[-] You notice movement after a few hours. Barkers emerge from the ash and snow just past the gate, having burrowed into the earth. Tentacles twist out from their manes and patches of their body are lined with silver and gray metal. Red, baleful eyes, focus on you, dark and appraising. Then they begin to pace back and forth, keeping well outside of the gate. One wanders back from the distance, following the path carved through the snow. It joins its siblings in its pacing. Ambushed foiled, they, with a single yip from the largest two, lope into the distance.
Eventually, Fred emerges from the house, looking up to you and giving a wave. "I've got breakfast ready." You hop down from the roof, landing gracefully, and pass his rifle back to him with a nod. He hesitates. "Uh...are--you good?"
"I'm fine, why?" You question, shaking out your coat before entering the house.
"That-- that was a three-story drop."
"Oh, yeah, I'm good." You grace him with a smile, stepping into the house and finding the bowl of nutrient gruel hot and steaming on the table. Fred has at least cleared the dishes from the previous night away. A nice touch, even if he just piled them up in the corner of the sink. You eat quietly and quickly, taking your fill. He doesn't hesitate to cook you more. There was even a pot on the stove already.
Between bites, you brief him on the Barkers. He looks concerned, but, after a nod, "I'll stay in the lower level. Ask your guards to knock five times, pause, count to five, and then knock five more times. That way we'll be safe. I got Tim to clean up your armor and clothes, by the way."
Time to head back?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 21, 2020, 04:22:47 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 22, 2020, 01:47:12 am
Return the las-gun, take a look at fixing the gate, and then leave.
+1
On with our armor, and away to Stormmont. T'was a pleasant surprise, to happen upon a friendly face or two in the wasteland!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 22, 2020, 01:49:54 am
"Thank you for your hospitality, Fredrick and Timothy Caltrop. A hover-craft will be here today to recover you."
"It was a pleasure." Both bow their heads, and Timothy rushes to open the door for you. You duck out, and, for once, the sun shines down on the blasted wasteland left by SEED's passing.You approach the broken gate, frowning to yourself.
You're no blacksmith, but --
[20][10][14]
Silicon is a brittle metal, but, if there's enough of it, that really doesn't matter. You erect a new wall, covering the gate in the shiny material and fortifying the crumbling brickwork that surrounds the mansion. It doesn't take long, only thirty minutes or so, to raise it by about ten feet and top it with savage spikes and jagged, hard to climb edges. It even has a deep trench around it, filled with savage spikes. The two Caltrop brothers look on in stunned silence.
[-] With their safety momentarily assured, you unfurl your wings and bask in both the comforting warmth they provide. The sun beams down, on your face, and a light wind blows. It's cold, cold enough that your wings are turning the snow around you into steam, but in this moment, you are quite comfortable.
There's a temptation here. What if I never return? What if I leave this war? Leave my so-called fate? Leave it all behind to soak in the sun. There are many villages that would no doubt honor me with great comfort. Would it be such a betrayal?
As if to answer yourself, you rise into the air and set off to Stormmont upon your wings of red and gold. The trip is quiet, and you soar over the lands of ash and melting snow. You keep your helmet off, tucking it into a crook in your arm as you feel the cold wind nipping at your face. It's in the early evening when you finally arrive at your Fortress, slipping into your quarters through your personal alcove in its armored defenses. No one is there to greet you as you drop to your bed and devour a nutrient cube from your stash.
You send a message to Zero, instructing him to send a squad and a hovercraft to the Caltrop Residence.
With your business done, you lay on your bed, and contemplate your next move.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 22, 2020, 02:06:00 am
Arrange for a war council tomorrow morning. It's time to strike back with all the ferocity we can muster.
Post by: King Zultan on June 22, 2020, 03:49:38 am
To abandon those that you are sworn to protect is to bring dishonor upon the Line. How can the sun escape the light?+1
Arrange for a war council tomorrow morning. It's time to strike back with all the ferocity we can muster.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 22, 2020, 09:54:43 am
+1To abandon those that you are sworn to protect is to bring dishonor upon the Line. How can the sun escape the light?+1
Arrange for a war council tomorrow morning. It's time to strike back with all the ferocity we can muster.
If we stop fighting now, the plague will infect everyone. We can bask in the sun when the plague is gone
Post by: Superdorf on June 22, 2020, 03:05:14 pm
You feel that call too, hm? The temptation to just-- fly away?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 22, 2020, 03:43:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 22, 2020, 09:35:35 pm
You end up staying in bed for most of the night, until Lucille informs you that the meeting is in an hour. Temptation strikes once again, as you ignore the time over and over again. In the end, you don't shower or change. Instead you drag yourself out of bed in full panoply and stride to the elevator.
You're late by about fifteen minutes.
Minister of State: Dan Hoganson Present
Minister of Religion: Lacey Sterling Present
Minister of Agriculture: Mickey MacGruder Present
Minister of Industry: Nettle Armssmith Present
Head Guardian: Lauren Mack Present
Crusader General: Isela Tabbet Present
Minister of Internal Affairs: William Thornton Present
Minister of Foreign Affairs: Tiffany Mellone Present
Minister of Trade and Finance: Lawrence Geoyde Present
Minister of Communications, Regent: Emeralda Thornton Present
Minister of Health: Val Foster Present
Acting Secretary: Child of SEED Three
Acting Executor: Child of SEED Zero
Notable Guests:Eric Applegate (Guest of Isela), Nicole Gainer (self-invited, vouched for by Emeralda Thornton)
Security Force: Thirteen Heavy Crusaders
Your councilors rise when you swing the double doors open and mount the staircase. You drop into your chair and set your helmet on the table, resting your head on your gloved hand. You do not tell them to take a seat, or dismiss them from their bow. Instead, you contemplate your copy of attendance with a dull, disinterested look. Emma is the first to take a seat, and the rest take a cue.
"I was told this was a council of war?" Isela questions, stretching out in her seat.
"Nah, you got it all wrong Isela. It's a chance for Pheonix to scowl at all of us!" William calls out, playfully, flashing you a grin you do not return.
A Crusader approaches your shoulder, a probe of willpower letting you know it's Cephie. The rest move towards her -- but you raise a hand as she slips off her helmet, revealing a young woman you don't recognize. She gently taps your willpower -- transmitting quiet concern, but doesn't speak.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 22, 2020, 10:20:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 22, 2020, 11:15:58 pm
"I would like to discuss an aggressive plan of action for an offensive action against the Plague. What is the largest scale of assault possible in the short-term? Any plans that wouldn't deplete our resources?"
Silence fills the room as those assembled consider the resources at their disposal. Isela is grinning, gesturing to Eric, who brings her a thick folder, filled with crumpled and recycled paper. Nicole smiles, shifting forward and lifting a hand above her chest. Hoganson gestures for your attention as well. You listen to each in turn--
"Currently, we are stripping down one of the largest hydrogen fueled hovercraft that we have. We intend to outfit it much like the Levithan. However, as we are low on guns, cannons, and artillery pieces, we would need time. There's also the issue of armor -- our current technology does not allow us to manufacture lighter than steel composites, and our bioplastic production is at record low. If we could increase our fuel economy, we could create a mobile forward assault base by putting a hydrogen plant on the vessel."
"You should look into Carbon Fiber." William states, bluntly, looking towards Cephie with a crooked grin. Cephie twitches-- her willpower lashes out at him, but he grins and bears it. The other councilors shift uncomfortably with the invisible exchange in front of you. You do not intercede -- it's the equivalent of a mock slap-fight between children.
"I have a gift for Pheonix, my darling grandchild, that I believe could put more firepower in our hands. However, I do not wish to share this information publically. A gift for my rescue from those damn Outlanders." Nicole states, gently. The word 'bribe' never once being stated, despite the obvious implication. Isela and Minister Mellone flash sharp looks at Nicole, but do not comment.
"I have already stated an idea I had to Pheonix. She should make a decision before our public announcements -- otherwise, we may seem to be at our most vulnerable." Hoganson states.
"I concur with Hoganson. His previously stated plan could give us a lot more manpower." Emma calmly announces.
"I've been in contact with a few Outlander clans. For the right price, they would be willing to fight as outriders and scouts. A powerful figure --" Mellone pauses, scratching at her face, "Wishes for an audience. He has many troops. Apparently he even has a few hovercrafts and a city under his rule."
"A city? Outside of SEED's grace?!" Lacey calls out, shocked, and appalled by the implication, "Even the youngest children know that the Outlands are a wretched, horrible place, devoid of farmland and any food. How can there be a city? You must be joking dear -- or being mislead. Such a city would be heretical. No Outlander could construct such things."
Post by: ZBridges on June 22, 2020, 11:28:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 22, 2020, 11:46:59 pm
"If the [Khagnate] wills it and accepts you, they will work for free. The Outlanders are a practical folk. Gold and Jade they enjoy for ornamentation, but guns and pasture are far more valuable. Protection without conversion is another form of pa-"
"Those Heretics WILL NOT receive any protection. They shunned our people, our ways. Heretics that refuse to bend the knee and lift up Pheonix's name to the stars--" Minister Sterling begins to preach, voice full of fire and wrath only for Nicole to swiftly interrupt her with a dark look and even darker words.
"Your beliefs override the wishes of your God? You are one of the worst kinds of preachers, Sister Sterling, if you believe that. Preachers of that sort were usually struck down by SEED with mishaps or death." Nicole's delivery is calm, but her words are as sharp as a knife. They deflate Lacey Sterling in an instant, and she looks to you with momentary fear.
Post by: ZBridges on June 23, 2020, 12:05:45 am
"Let me make this clear. Everyone here is safe and I value your opinions. Please do not threaten harm upon another, even obliquely, while we are gathered here like this. Minister Mellone, Can you tell me more about the [Khagnate]?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 23, 2020, 02:36:16 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 23, 2020, 02:38:54 am
((Am I correct in thinking we have reclaimed all of our former territories? The holdings section simply says this: "SEED Holy Land."))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 23, 2020, 05:07:51 am
Nicole bows after your gentle reproach. Minister Sterling turns away from the two to murmur to her neighbor, Minister Armsmith -- with her attention diverted, you give Nicole a subtle wink. Emma seems to notice, and grins at the display.
"I apologize. SEED has left you in charge. It's the old Crusader in me, I suppose. Apologies, Sister Sterling. I spoke too sharply." Nicole dips her head to Minister Sterling.
[20]"From what my spies have gathered -- or been allowed to gather, is that he is roughly fifty years old. He's united a vast number of clans in the crater plains. He recently finished construction on a central capital within the plains -- apparently, they've started farming a type of grain that grows well in that area." Mellone glances down at a document. "He has spies within the Holy Land, and is a cruel and cunning leader." Mellone looks embarrassed, then glances to you. With a hand, she gestures for a Crusader to approach and pass you a document.
She's summarized it well, but she left one thing out.
The [Khaganate] wishes to unify with the Holy Land -- through marriage. With you.
[1] Your control briefly falters, and the document bursts into flame in an instant.
"...We'll discuss this later." You state, quietly, as paper ash tumbles down to the table. "That was a copy, I hope."
Minister Mellone gives a small, tight nod.
Proposition One: 0 votes
Repurposing one of the massive evacuation hovercraft into a forward command base to strike at the Plague within the next three months. It is to be outfitted with cannons, a solar-powered hydrogen plant, heavy armor, and everything an army might need. William suggested Cephie use her willpower to plate it with carbon fiber, to give it better defenses at a reduced weight.
Proposition Two: 0 votes
The [Khagnate] of the Outlands is requesting you visit him for an audience. According to your information, he seeks an alliance through marriage.
Proposition Three: 1 vote
Hoganson and Emma are pushing for a deal with the Families. The Families will provide war material, soldiers, and funds, but want increased politcal powers and self-governence. However, they remain vague on the details.
Post by: King Zultan on June 23, 2020, 07:26:41 am
Post by: Eschar on June 23, 2020, 08:59:06 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 23, 2020, 10:34:22 am
"Is it possible that some of the machinery in the Bioplastics 1 district and Hydrogen-Purification 1 district survived the explosion? If so, could we recover that equipment to help with our bioplastic shortage and fuel efficiency problems?"
Post by: Superdorf on June 23, 2020, 10:50:40 am
(William's "suggestion" strikes me almost as a joke-- but I wonder. Might Cephie have some insight as to the mundane production of such plate? It wouldn't hurt to ask, once the council proper disbands for the day.)
We are not marrying into the [Khaganate]. It'd still be worth hearing him out, in hopes of hitting upon some alternative or other.
I'm inclined to support Hoganson's proposition-- but first, I should like him to lay out exactly what powers he expects the Families to receive, in exchange for their autonomy. The deal's uncomfortably vague as things stand.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 23, 2020, 10:57:27 am
I think if there were bioplastics left, they would have been taken by various groups already
Post by: Hotfire90 on June 23, 2020, 11:18:59 am
Marrying the outlander could cause issues with stability, Emma is still our official consort and the outlanders don't worship us, it would weaken Emma's authority and could cause religious conflict between our theocratic fortress state and the outlander [khagnate].
Voting for proposal 1 and 3.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 23, 2020, 03:09:15 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 23, 2020, 04:04:44 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 23, 2020, 06:38:25 pm
As far as proposition 2 is concerned, I see that it is not very popular, but I think it would be valuable to meet with the Outlander, even if we don't marry him. There are other ways to secure alliances.yes. We should still meet. I don’t see the problem with the marriage to secure the alliance, though it’s clear I’m the outlier, we can attempt to discuss with him not her way of securing an alliance.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 24, 2020, 01:16:49 am
"Afraid not and afraid so, Mother Pheonix," Armssmith states, shifting uncomfortably. "The Bioplastics region took a great deal of damage from the earthquakes and explosion. The hydrogen plants didn't fare much better. Scavengers and Infected have took what they could."
You nod, turning your attention to the young Crusader General.
"Isela I approve of your construction project. Make it happen." You firmly command, glancing over at Cephie, who deflates. "One way or another, I'll see that your ship gets good armor. I expect a strategic plan to be drawn up as soon as it's finished. It's maiden voyage will be baptized with Infected Blood. Am I understood?"
Isela ducks her head in a bow, a smile forming on her lips.
"Hoganson," You begin, not really looking at him, "I want you to draft a document for your plans. It intrigues me, but I will not agree to anything as vague as you have currently suggested. You are a Family-man, but you serve me and my state. Make sure this document and plan reflect that. Thank you." You politely respond, shifting your head on your hand to fix your bright blue eyes on the man. He doesn't flinch, only bowing his head and giving a nod.
"Next thing -- I will visit this [Khagnate]. The concept of a city within that wasteland intrigues me -- and I rule this planet. It would be good to see all of it." You instruct to Mellone. "Please, organize this visit, if you could."
"Yes, Mother Pheonix." Mellone bows her head -- and Lacey looks annoyed by the concept. Today, of all days, you couldn't care less if she approves. The Outlanders are so refreshing compared to this backstabbing, overzealous lot.
"My gift lies on the way there, Pheonix," Nicole states, with a tight, controlled bow. "Would you be so kind as to work that into your schedule?"
The City-State will begin working on Project Mobile Forward Assualt Base. It will be completed within three to four months. Isela will have a plan of attack by then.
You will visit the [Khagnate] within a week.
Hoganson will begin drafting documents to return some powers to the Families in return for Military Support.
Is there anything else to be done this session?
Post by: ZBridges on June 24, 2020, 01:24:01 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 24, 2020, 07:28:00 am
"I would like to establish a new ministry dedicated to representing and making known the hopes and concerns of our populace. The minister would be selected in a free and fair election, available to all. Is this something that can be done?"+1 We should also go see what Nicole has to show us.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 24, 2020, 07:44:21 am
+1"I would like to establish a new ministry dedicated to representing and making known the hopes and concerns of our populace. The minister would be selected in a free and fair election, available to all. Is this something that can be done?"+1 We should also go see what Nicole has to show us.
Post by: Hotfire90 on June 24, 2020, 02:20:38 pm
+1+1"I would like to establish a new ministry dedicated to representing and making known the hopes and concerns of our populace. The minister would be selected in a free and fair election, available to all. Is this something that can be done?"+1 We should also go see what Nicole has to show us.
Post by: Superdorf on June 24, 2020, 05:08:28 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 24, 2020, 05:18:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 02:32:53 am
Minister Hoganson's lips curl into a small frown, and intense expression of emotion for the emotionless man that sits so close to you. He rubs at his face for a few, quiet moments. "SEED previously instituted something of the same sort. People were organized into 'churches' and voted for people who would vote on the Pontifex. But that institution was corrupt. The Pontifex was -corrupt-. The church leaders were -corrupt- and SEED--"
"The Pontifex was a man of SEED. A direct oracle from which the people could speak and could be spoken too -- surely we have no need of that now? And surely you would be a better man than to disrespect such an Oracle? If he was so corrupt, than SEED would not have accepted him, would he? Or are you saying SEED is fallible?" Minister Lacey cuts him off sharply, darkly.
"It's honestly about time. Folks have been getting antsy." Is all Minister MacGruder states, "Reorganization of the churches would bring some stability back." He opines, placidly. Glancing towards Hoganson. "The Last Pontifex did all right by the folk -- just not the Inbr-- Sorry, the Families."
Minister Nettle does not speak, shifting in her seat and picking at grime and oil beneath her fingernails with a very carefully detached air. She doesn't meet your gaze either.
"A lot of the institutions of Old SEED were corrupt, Hoganson. You'd know all about that though, would you, hmmh?" Head Guardian Lauren Mack carefully barbs. "But the Pontifex..." Her eyes meet your's in defiance. "I'm sure plenty of people know that position has power and influence. Perhaps our God-Queen should take it for herself. She would win any election."
"As a Crusader, I do not have opinion on the politics of the Scholarly or Civilian side of our government -- we'll keep it that way, thank you." Isela states, formally. "As long as no group interferes with what needs to be done to keep our people safe and our Crusade going."
"So we're going let people vote on some random person -- without vetting them? Without keeping an eye on our security? What if they elect a cultist? Or someone who opposes the war? What then? Do we have to knife him in a dark alley some day? The Pontifex had guards too -- will whoever this person is get the same? Know how much trouble someone could cause with a band of thugs and the will of the People?" William questions, idly, "I'm in favor if it matters. Stormmont is too boring. Could spice up the place a little to have some dissent in the ranks."
Minister Mellone returns your eye contact, "I've no opinion on this, Mother Pheonix."
"Neither d--d-do I." Minister Geoyde adds, stuttering, when your gaze tracks to him
"[If it was organized in a different way, I would be in full support. I've...seen,]" Emma speaks softly to you in High Empyreal, "[A few worlds with different political groups all balanced against one another. We've got the makings of it, between the Nobility, the Scholars, and the Public. Perhaps we could organize something of a similar nature. But it seems like the best type of government for making fast decisions is a Dictatorship. Representative democracies are slow in a crisis.]"
Minister Foster doesn't appear to be paying attention-- she doodles on one of her folders with disinterest. "There's those Scholars that were in the Societal Direction Group or whatever. They got shuffled around. Could set them on it."
"Well, while you lot hash that out, I'll go schedule a hovercraft, Pheonix." Nicole turns and hobbles out the door, giving the room one long look that matches your's. "Pleasure meeting some of you for the first time -- and pleasure meeting some of you again."
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 02:49:35 am
"It sounds like this sort of thing could be workable if the resulting government officials were not corrupt. An intense vetting of all candidates combined with powerful oversight from Internal Affairs and our Guardians could help with that. In any case, however, please have the Scholars research it and come up with a viable democratic solution. I know that some of you are not in favor of it, but I would like you to keep an open mind as we strive to rebuild our nation."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 03:07:50 am
"[What do you think] Moore Thornton [is for, Pheonix?]" Emma quietly asks.
"[Leave him the] fuck [out of this.]" William is no longer the bored, drunken sod he's been playing for so long lately as he straightens in his chair. "[We share blood with that boy now. We're not going to make hi-]"
"[Suddenly the monster has a heart?]" Emma retorts sharply, voice rising as she glares at her elder brother. "[Suddenly the murderer wants the boy to live a good life when you tried to have] Pheo-Pheonix [take it? Stop playing the hypocrite. He's not the redemption you hope for. We're all tools of fate here.]"
"You know we cant understand a single word the two of you are saying, right?" Head Guardian Mack calls out to the arguing siblings. "Like. Not one bit. I think all I could understand was 'fuck' and 'Pheonix.'"
"You're a tool." William bluntly retorts to his sister. "[Father ruined us. You want to put the boy through that? Political marriages? The backstabbing, the shadowy deals, the blood that you can't scrub clean?] Fuck [off] Emma, [and stop playing at being heartless.]"
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 03:17:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 03:38:00 am
William is out of his chair in a flash, standing up and leaning over the table. The old rage has returned. His eyes are bright, and fingers creep under his coat. Also, ignoring you. "[I regret it every damn day and you know that. I told you that I--]"
Emma is similarly out of her seat, her own hand in her coat. Hoganson's hand drifts to the same area, as does Lauren Mack's. Eric shifts forward to intercede, trying to put himself between the feuding siblings. The guards look to you, then begin to move with great hesitation and care. "[Yeah? And if you regretted it so much, why did you try to steal Pheonix away too? You're such an] asshole [that you can't let your little sister have a 'toy' that you haven't played with first.]"
William's eyes widen as they glance towards you, then back to his sister. Anger replaces shock, "[I didn--]"
[20+6 vs 17+1 / 10+2 / 17+5 / 1+1] "Shut up and sit down!" The anger that's been stewing inside of you bursts forth into words of command -- your willpower sweeps over the room like a blaze. Your words have an effect on everyone. The siblings can't even sit in their chairs as their bodies betray them. Cephie plops down onto the floor with a look of shock. Eric is on his rear faster than you can register. The guards are in a similar state -- only some tumble to the ground as they try to sit mid-step up the stairs. Perhaps if you were in a better mood, this would be comical.
You are not, however. You bite your lip, and, with your only hand you rub at your face. No one says a word.
Its days like this that I wish I could get drunk.
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 03:45:16 am
"Whatever personal problems you may have with eachother, keep them out of this room. We are not here to get into petty squabbles. I don't want to have to say this again."
Post by: King Zultan on June 25, 2020, 05:42:19 am
((Gentlemen, you can't fight here. This is the war room.))+1
"Whatever personal problems you may have with eachother, keep them out of this room. We are not here to get into petty squabbles. I don't want to have to say this again."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 25, 2020, 10:15:28 am
+1((Gentlemen, you can't fight here. This is the war room.))+1
"Whatever personal problems you may have with eachother, keep them out of this room. We are not here to get into petty squabbles. I don't want to have to say this again."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 04:48:04 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 04:57:42 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 25, 2020, 08:09:17 pm
((What names do you prefer calling the plural for Collosus?))
Post by: Superdorf on June 25, 2020, 08:17:47 pm
Alternative strikes against the [plague] would be worthwhile... still, I can't help but feel we'd be best off closing this council session [ASAP]. This is becoming personal in an ugly way.
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 09:38:21 pm
Leave. Check when the hovercraft is scheduled for.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 10:16:08 pm
"You stay."
She swivels on a heel, looking back to you with a raised eyebrow. Her face shifts and melts and twists until the real Cephie is looking at you, standing in loose Crusader armor. She gives the most exaggerated of bows to you, before, "What can I do for you, oh Queen of Ash and Dust?"
"Can it. I'm already annoyed enough."
"Aye, aye, Captain."
"Could you help with producing Carbon-fiber in a more mundane way? Like, teaching the principles?"
"If you're willing to wait a few months to build the forges, vacuum chambers and gather the chemicals and compounds needed -- yes, sure. To be honest, its a lot easier to just do it myself than have to teach these primitives. Two or three weeks of work versus twelve. They'll get to it eventually, though, and then they'll be one step closer to superalloys. It's a process, y'know?"
"Ah. Okay...then. I would...also like to apologize for those two's outbursts. I know you're the only one who--"
"Understood them, yes. Piece of advice, Pheonix? Your kindred are months old. They are two siblings. They have what--ten, twelve voices in their head? All telling them different things. The only person who might be able to understand them keeps getting the shit kicked out of her." Cephie lifts a hand, "And you, dear gods in all the heavens, you're a mess yourself. I can see the resemblance. Something to think about, yeah? Might help to keep them on the leash in the future. They might not try to kill each other to impress you."
As Cephie walks out the door -- she pauses again, "And in that fight, I put my money on Emma. She's...she's deep in that mind of hers. We can all use processing powers -- but Oracles are scary. Probability...is a scary thing to control."
You sit quietly until Nicole returns with a bag slung over her shoulder. With a curt nod, she questions, "You ready? It's a bit of a trip -- if you need weapons, we can get them on the way out. I've got plenty of food already. If you want to bring anybody, call them up. We leave in thirty minutes."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 10:22:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 10:26:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 10:30:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 25, 2020, 10:37:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 25, 2020, 10:40:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 26, 2020, 04:38:21 am
"What do you mean?" You question.
"You noticed it, haven't you? SEED designed a mold for this world. Do they fit it? Ever wonder why?"
Post by: King Zultan on June 26, 2020, 08:07:33 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 26, 2020, 08:11:22 am
Post by: Iris on June 26, 2020, 11:42:25 am
I have a lot of different things to say, but I think I'll stick to the issues at hand for now.
A political marriage with the [Khaganate], distasteful though it may sound, seems like a pretty solid decision to me. Outlanders are hardy people, and more people and resources always help. If nobody seems to be able to stomach that, however, then perhaps we could negotiate a more conventional alliance.
Honestly, I'm having a little trouble trusting the Thorntons. They seem to be more interested in preserving the interests of their Family rather than our interests. While this is understandable, to be perfectly honest, we need as many people behind us as we can get. This is also the same reason that I don't really think democracy is viable at this time - we need all the power centralized and controlled by us. While in the long term this will not do good for citizen satisfaction, let alone our budding god complex, we have to remember that the [Plague] is always breathing down our necks.
I think we should bring Celphie and a Null. Celphie is a good bet because A) she's bound to us by oath, B) she seems to genuinely want to be our friend, and C) most importantly, she has next to nothing to gain by betraying us. Plus, she has experience with Outlanders.
Actually, speaking of Celphie, we should probably spend some of our free time trying to befriend her at some point. Not only will this make her like us more, I think we genuinely stand to gain from making another friend.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 26, 2020, 11:54:27 am
((I've finally finished catching up to the present of this. I'd just like to say that this is an amazing forum game - quite possibly the best I've ever seen. Suggestions are open to everyone, correct?))I’m glad someone else also sees that marrying the [Khaganate] is practical.
I have a lot of different things to say, but I think I'll stick to the issues at hand for now.
A political marriage with the [Khaganate], distasteful though it may sound, seems like a pretty solid decision to me. Outlanders are hardy people, and more people and resources always help. If nobody seems to be able to stomach that, however, then perhaps we could negotiate a more conventional alliance.
Honestly, I'm having a little trouble trusting the Thorntons. They seem to be more interested in preserving the interests of their Family rather than our interests. While this is understandable, to be perfectly honest, we need as many people behind us as we can get. This is also the same reason that I don't really think democracy is viable at this time - we need all the power centralized and controlled by us. While in the long term this will not do good for citizen satisfaction, let alone our budding god complex, we have to remember that the [Plague] is always breathing down our necks.
I think we should bring Celphie and a Null. Celphie is a good bet because A) she's bound to us by oath, B) she seems to genuinely want to be our friend, and C) most importantly, she has next to nothing to gain by betraying us. Plus, she has experience with Outlanders.
Actually, speaking of Celphie, we should probably spend some of our free time trying to befriend her at some point. Not only will this make her like us more, I think we genuinely stand to gain from making another friend.
Post by: Superdorf on June 26, 2020, 12:04:44 pm
Regardless... welcome, Cadet. Have you a name?
"I learned something of their history, in Thornton Villa. They-- predate SEED, and SEED's people. Small wonder, that they distrusted the Holy City so."
"Why do you ask?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 26, 2020, 12:14:08 pm
I think it would be better to bring Cephie and a Null
Post by: ZBridges on June 26, 2020, 03:26:50 pm
Practical? It is an affront on our freedom. Phoenix was right, to look to it with anger.+1
Regardless... welcome, Cadet. Have you a name?
"I learned something of their history, in Thornton Villa. They-- predate SEED, and SEED's people. Small wonder, that they distrusted the Holy City so."
"Why do you ask?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 26, 2020, 03:36:09 pm
I'd like to hear our grandmother's thoughts on the matter before we make a decision.Fair, but she asked us if we trust them, it might be rude to not answer that questionPractical? It is an affront on our freedom. Phoenix was right, to look to it with anger.+1
Regardless... welcome, Cadet. Have you a name?
"I learned something of their history, in Thornton Villa. They-- predate SEED, and SEED's people. Small wonder, that they distrusted the Holy City so."
"Why do you ask?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 27, 2020, 12:43:58 am
The two, punctual and precise, however in differing ways, are both waiting for you to arrive. Cephie is wearing a long, black dress over trousers and boots. No part of her outfit is separate. All of it is connected by a patch of cloth or twisting thread. She smiles with sharp teeth, giving a mock bow. "Y'know Pheobe, if I knew I'd be seeing you again so soon, I would have waited on the parting advice-- it's meant to come before a parting, y'feel? It kinda loses teeth when you see me ten minutes later."
"What is that you're wearing? I was expecting armor." You idly question, examining the shifting, shiny, silky black fabric.
"Watch!" Cephie straightens, and with a dramatic gesture, a wave of her hand over her skinny form. Her clothing changes, shimmering as armor suddenly forms from the cloth. It lingers, before reforming into the outfit. "The newest models are the best. No clinking armor, no maintenance. Just a twist of your will and a stunning, modern dress turns into full body armor."
You smirk as you look over Jane Morris. Where Cephie is flamboyant, excited, Eight, or, Jane Morris, is quiet. She's wearing full Heavy Crusader Kit; marching pack and all. No color, no exaggeration, or emotion. A perfect killing machine with a face you can't remember. She straps her gas mask on, hiding even that feature, and leaving her a bulky, organized soldier. "Mother Pheonix." Is her slightly less than monotone greeting. Out of all the Nulls, you decide then and there you hate her less than the rest. There's an attempt at being human. An icy, emotionless one, but a human nonetheless.
A hovercraft sits idling nearby with two pilots standing at attention at its side. The bow when you and your...motley party approach. Comments are held. The only words out of their mouths are their names, their ranks, and 'yes, Mother Pheonix'.
Maybe they're Nulls too.
You begin boarding. A cutter blade finds its way to your belt. A 'sawn-down' las-rifle is slung around your shoulder. Food rations and a water purifier are stowed away, along with a camp tent. Nicole sits across from you, the Null nearby her. Cephie takes a seat to your immediate right. In an instant, she's laying against you with a datapad out, reading a book before the ship can even take off. Nicole raises an eyebrow, but says nothing. Instead, Nicole lays back and shuts her eyes. She's fast asleep before you even pull away from Stormmont.
"[That's a soldier's trick if I ever saw one.]" Cephie points out in low Empyrean, the tongue of pirates, of freelancers, of the 'civilized' rim. "[Being able to fall asleep anywhere, at any time. If we needed that much sleep, it would be the same for us.]"
"Mmh."
"[Ah. Still a little upset about the day before? I probably shouldn't have involved myself in your ex-lover's quarrel. I was only trying to help.]"
"[No. You were not. I know your game, Cephelia, I know what you want from me.]"
"[...and I know your game too, Pheonix. Pretending you're scared of yourself. Of your power? Of your potential? It's adorable. You're a Goddess of Fire. Of Victory. Of Blood. You should act like one instead of acting like a scared little girl playing with matches.]" Cephie's tone has not a hint of harshness in it, even as she invades your personal space and presses against your uncomfortable armor. Your arm still lays between the two of you, "[Now, if you could be so kind, wrap your arm around me. You're messing up my posture.]"
[10 vs 17] It is a little uncomfortable, keeping your arm there...and Cephie smells...like blood. Like burning oil and trees and the warm smell of a plastic las-gun's exterior after it's just been discharged.
"[You always smell like blood and ash.]" Cephie quietly states, scrolling through her book, eyes tracking across the text in a blur.
"[I didn't tell you to sit so close, Cephie.]"
"[Is that why you were staring at me earlier? Or was it just the dress? Too plunging of a neckline?]" She pauses, "[Besides, I didn't say it smelled bad.]" There's another pause, "[And if it was so bad, your heart wouldn't be beating like a drum, your muscles wouldn't be tense, and you wouldn't be trying so damn hard to pretend this doesn't bother you. Now move your arm before I get pissy and we end up killing someone by doing nothing more than arguing. Most likely the emotionless weirdo you decided to bring along despite that if we got serious we could rip this planet in half.]"
You hesitate, then you quietly shift your arm.
"[Good girl. Now, I bet you and your ancestors have questions for me since your brain is still so fucked. According to your...charming grandmother, we've got a few hours to burn and I've got answers.]"
What questions do you ask Cephie?
((Remember, you don't have to +1. I will take any questions. You can even have multiple questions!))
Post by: ZBridges on June 27, 2020, 01:46:41 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 27, 2020, 02:16:18 am
[19 vs 20+1] You hesitate, but her gentle words stir the story forth, even if you wish you didn't. You didn't even tell Emma, and now here you are, telling Cephie. The woman who backstabbed you. The woman who is bound in service to Magnus. An enemy, but by the grace of eternal pact, a friend for now.
"[...I...I needed strength. I needed something in my stomach...I...I ripped it off. And I ate it.]"
You expect judgment, you expect her to peel away from you in disgust at your admission. Autocannibalism. Surely a sign of mental illness. "[An amaranth of sin. An act of inhumanity, a step away from what connects you to humanity. A step closer to apotheosis. These things leave marks. Permanent ones. Our flesh is shaped by our Will. By our spirit. By our story and our sins. You have no arm because that is now fact. That is now an eternal scar, like the one across your chest.]" She's gentle when she speaks, softly consoling as she offers no judgment. "[Do you know why I have pointed teeth, Pheobe?]"
You shake your head.
"[One year after my Ascension I was trapped on a ship of Pirates. Tortured. Broken over and over again. They had found me out, you see. That I was a skin-changer. They...amused themselves with my suffering. Starving me to make me weak. One day, I shaped my teeth into these wonderful...pearly...whites...and ripped out a Pirate's throat. Then, starving as I was...I ate the corpse.] Cephie's excitable, gleeful voice slips into a more quiet, reflective tone as her eyes glaze over. She stares somewhere into the middle distance. "[Every time I eat meat I can still taste the blood. But I can hide them, oh yes, but they're plain for all to see when I show myself truthfully.]"
[3 vs. 16] You sit quietly, then, you hug Cephie close. She no longer lays against you, focusing instead on her book and sitting up straight. "[Yea-nah. Sorry. That got...that got too heavy. Sorry. That's like twelfth date material -- right there. Not third time we're ever alone together stuff. They say it's to limit us. That the Empress wanted a check on our powers and that was one of them. Some scars don't heal. Some things cannot be forgotten.]"
"[Magnus thinks I'm disgusting. So does my 'brother'. My real family doesn't have a clue. They think that's what I want them to look like. Do you think I am?]"
Post by: ZBridges on June 27, 2020, 02:23:55 am
"[I had another question for you. Is it possible for us to send out a small bit of our Dust to perform a task far from our bodies? I'd like to be able to attain unrestrained fusion from a distance, for example.]"
Post by: King Zultan on June 27, 2020, 07:56:53 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 27, 2020, 08:13:24 am
"[Would it be possible for me to learn how to change our looks around like you can?]"We’ve already asked this, unless we can teach her how to move hydrogen too, the answer is very likely no
[How dies Magnus usually deal with planets with the plague? Would the planet remain habitable after his attack? Would he allow some of SEED’s people to come with him until a Plague free planet is found that they can live on, if this one is destroyed?]
Post by: Iris on June 27, 2020, 08:21:07 am
[How dies Magnus usually deal with planets with the plague? Would the planet remain habitable after his attack? Would he allow some of SEED’s people to come with him until a Plague free planet is found that they can live on, if this one is destroyed?]
+1 Sounds like a good question to know the answer to. Honestly, I don't think I have much to ask of my own.
Post by: ZBridges on June 27, 2020, 09:25:07 am
((Remember, you don't have to +1. I will take any questions. You can even have multiple questions!))
Post by: Superdorf on June 28, 2020, 07:49:40 pm
That question... she's asking you, Φοίβη. Not us. Offer our sympathies, if you like-- but answer with your own words.
...you could cut off our sensory feed awhile, for that matter. Our calculations and our judgements are of little use to you at this time.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 28, 2020, 11:28:41 pm
...
[-10- / -10-]
Cephie is laying against you again, scrolling through her tablet with a slight redness to her eyes that was not there before. A ghost of a smile twitches across her lips from time to time. You squeeze her shoulder and she turns her attention back to you. Around an hour of the five-hour flight has passed, by your internal chronometer, and you feel its a good time to ask the questions queueing within your mind. She swipes across her datapad, shutting down the screen as you begin asking them.
"[Can I send out a small bit of Dust or Essence, away from my body, to perform a task?]"
"[Yes and no. Essence evaporates. It's unstable. A constant mote of change constrained by our bodies.]" She puts a hand near your face, her glove drawing back to reveal a thin patchwork of scars. "[Blood works well until it dries.]" Slowly, the armor draws back more, as does her flesh, revealing square notches of flesh missing from places on her arm. "[Flesh can hold it longer. The best bet is to keep your flesh alive somehow. A nutrient vial with an oxygenator, or something similar. Our flesh, if properly fed and maintained lasts a long time away from our bodies. You can route through it too, to extend the range of your willpower, if you can remember the nanite as a reference point.]" She is, of course, referring to the numerical codes of each cell, each part of your body. Her bared finger drifts down the front of your armor
You raise a brow.
"[Right. Sorry.]"
"[Is it possible for me to change my appearance, like you?]"
"[Not to the same level of control, and it will revert to your natural state pretty quickly. Try-- focus on the cells in your hair, each one. Consider how the light reflects off of the chemicals that make it up.]" She pulls up a small diagram, a quick reference, "[I used this before I memorized it.]"
You focus, shutting your eyes after a glance, trying not to pay attention to the young woman laying on you so closely.
Cephie giggles end up breaking your concentration. You were trying for a dull brown, the complex expression of melanin and keratin. Instead--Instead-- your head pounds, and you pitch forward. No.
Cephie starts up, her hands finding your shoulders to provide comfort. Her awkward giggles turning into a voice of concern. "Pheobe. Pheobe-- [what's the matter-- are you okay?]"
Nausea and pain pass and you dare to open your eyes. A strand of your long hair is draped over your shoulder -- dark, neon blue speckled with red, gold, and black. "I'm...I'm fine."
"[Was that the color...you were going for?]"
You shake your head.
[4 vs 20]
"[Tell your Line to fuck itself six ways to the End of the Universe. It's your body -- you can do what you want with it.]" Cephie is angry, her voice rising as her grip tightens on your shoulder. Low Empyrean is the best language for curses. Alone, there are thirty different words for 'damn'. Fifty for 'fuck'. You shake your head again, shutting your eyes as they throb.
Cephie drops it, as you settle back in your chair, breathing hard. With a bit of cloth from your suit, you rub at the blood that trickles from your eyes. "[How...how does Magnus deal with Plague planets?]"
She settles back into a comfortable position before answering, taking her time. "[There won't be a Plague when he finishes. But there might not even be a Biosphere. Your people will survive. I hope. But please, understand...Magnus isn't here for the plague. He's not here for this backwater rim world. He's here for you. To fight you. The Endless Nobility...they're inhuman. They don't care about one planet, or two, or even a dozen. What's one ant colony to the boot that treads upon it?]"
...
The rest of the ride passes uneventfully and quietly. You amuse yourself by reading over Cephie's shoulder, among...other things within reason, much to her amusement. Nicole yawns herself awake overdramatically as the craft touches down and the ramp opens on to a field of green grass at night. Lights on the rear of the craft flicker on, letting you see further into the darkness. You realize that this is a patch of greenery in a field of 'salts'. Cephie, without a word, walks to the salt flat as you and the Null set up the tents, the water purifier, and a cooking pot. The Null returns with [beast of burden] chips, lighting them ablaze to boil water and make the nutrient paste for the lot of you.
You end up walking to where Cephie stands, finding her kneeling. She lets grains of salt drift out of her fingers, even going so far as to pick one up and put it in her mouth.
"[What's got you so interested, out here?]"
"[Oh, I didn't want to help.]" Cephie admits, cheerfully, before her attention turns back to the salt. "[Do you know what this is? I had suspicions...]"
"[Salt?]"
"[These are salts of phosphorous.]"
"[Uh...okay.]"
"[I don't think you understand,] Pheobe." Cephie turns her attention to you, a gleam in her eye, "[Phosphorous limits growth. It is -the- limiter of growth for humanity everywhere. Crops need it. People need it. Agworlds need it...to have it just lying around like this is amazing. If it got diluted down, this planet could be one of the most fertile planets in this area. An underdeveloped world like this could become a bread-basket. Then an industrial complex, then a center of commerce and industry in short order if you exploited the hells out of this.]"
"[...uh...yeah. I guess that's something to think about.]"
Cephie sighs, rising to her feet and approaching you. With a playful smile, she rubs the salt from her hand unto the front of your uniform before passing you by. "[You're really cute, y'know?]"
You don't think that was a compliment.
The next morning, you set out to the north as the hovercraft lifts off, towards a crater rim in the distance. The air is cold, but you still sweat with the exertion. By the end of the forced march, you're carrying Nicole on your shoulders, along with half of the packs. Cephie carries the exhausted Null and the other half of the gear. The climb is even worse. You and Cephie have to take a break in the middle of it, as the two of you drag yourself over the rough terrain.
"[Ever the dutiful grandchild, you are, Pheonix.]" Cephie quips, during the break between chugs of water, "[You know what I hate about your type of Line -- you don't get thirsty. You can never understand how much water I need to survive -- and how annoying it is to drink this bland, perfectly purified [horse]-piss.]"
"I don't know what tongue you're speaking, but I understanding whining when I hear it. How about you settle down there, you oily punk." Nicole snaps.
Cephie only response is a dark glare. "I could kill you with a thought, y'know."
"Yes, but how would that affect the chance of my grandchild continuing to deal with your scrawny self?"
Cephie doesn't respond.
You crest the crater lip and it's a night and day difference. In the massive crater is a lake of ice-covered green water, fed by trickling springs that cascade down the edges of the rim. Between you and the lake is a gentle slope of hardy conifers, a mottled patchwork of greens and gold that hold together the sandy, moist soil. Lining the banks are broken stalks of golden grain, withered by the cold weather, but flourishing in the marshy soil. You pause, staring out over the lake, taken in by its beauty.
But in the center of the lake, a massive, spindly fin of weathered black metal juts from the water. A single light blinks across the ice cap which turns to slush and water around the metal. For nearly a hundred years, you've plied the Void betwixt worlds. It would be impossible for you not to recognize what that is --
"Is...is that a Void Ship comms array?" Cephie blurts out.
"Is that what that is? That'd explain the huge structure."
You setting up camp in a dry patch is a blur. Cephie even helps this time -- and the work is completed in less than an hour. Nicole guides you to a circle of brickwork that lies in the water, at the end of an overgrown path. A bronze bowl sits in the center, filled with ash, and all around it are stalks of grain. Trinkets of ceramic-- and even the remains of a broken las-gun. Rotten flowers are strung between poles on cords of steel, and fine oil-burning lanterns hang in the dead center.
"Outlanders view this place as holy. Me and my lads investigated it about fifty years ago when I was young enough to survive the Outland winters. We told SEED there was nothing here. About twenty years ago, I broke in with William Senior and his wife..." Nicole grins, "Did you like the Warmachines, Pheobe? This is the origin. Probably of the Families, too."
Cephie grins along, pulling out a spare pouch and tossing it to you. "What's our plan, Pheobe?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 28, 2020, 11:42:01 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 28, 2020, 11:47:46 pm
Approach the structure and appraise to what degree it remains intact.+1
Do we remember what a comma array is?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 12:34:55 am
There are ships plying the Void bigger than cities. Hundreds of thousands of meters long, filled to the brim with guns and cargo bays and living quarters. The largest, of course, are hydrogen freighters, drifting Citadels and Spacehulks. They measure in the tens or hundreds of [kilometers]. The wandering freelancers and pirates that call them their home drift through the space lanes, taking odd jobs, raiding or pillaging -- doing whatever it takes to survive in this unforgiving universe.
"It's a battleship. Small one. Maybe a corvette." Cephie explains, in low Empyreal, "Probably one or two thousand years old -- judging by the design. Well-crafted but not modular. These parts were built in shipyards instead of printed en-masse. I'd say." She states, ripping off a piece of material and looking it over. "Otherwise, it would have taken on rust and rot, 'swell. They don't build ships like this anymore."
"It's fusion generator is still active."
"Well duh, otherwise the light wouldn't be blinking." Cephie snarks, rolling her eyes even as she grins.
"It seems intact."
"Yeah, this was a good landing-- they kept the comms array pointed up. Didn't crush it. If there's no hull breaches--"
"--it could still be voidworthy."
"Its insides will have biological contaminants. It's probably a forest in there -- and don't get your hopes up. Going into the inky black with a cheap patchjob won't get you far."
Its a structure used to send and receive communications in the Void.
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 12:40:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 12:55:35 am
Let me answer for her. Beneath us is [hundreds of millions of kilograms] of metal, sunk into a lake -- it's probably buried in the mud and dirt, as well. There is no hovercraft on this planet that is dragging this thing from its grave. Hell, at this point, its own engines are probably the only thing strong enough to pull it up...if they aren't ruined by the water or unseen damages. But that's a maybe. All large Voidships are ill-designed for coming into the atmosphere.
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 12:57:37 am
Find an entrance into the ship.
Post by: Iris on June 29, 2020, 01:06:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 01:14:51 am
Post by: Iris on June 29, 2020, 01:19:21 am
Post by: King Zultan on June 29, 2020, 07:50:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 07:32:36 pm
"Mmh. How about we find that out later." Her armor shifts, becoming actual armor instead of a neat dress. With a twist of a wicked smile, she spreads her arms and falls backward into the water, shifting mid-fall into a dive. You shake your head, diving in after, your wings hissing and dying as you hit the water. You can see Cephie as she swims through the freezing water, moving stiffly. You go in the opposite direction, counting on your natural night-vision to help you find an entrance.
You find a gap in the plating, a hole where something impacted the vessel long ago. Jagged edges of metal flare inward from the ancient impact, and old wires still spark in the dark. Light is visible. You surface.
With a shiver, you activate Lucille's comms, Patch me through to Cephie.
["Found one?"]
["Yeah, I'll send up a flare."]
You burn hydrogen in the air in a straight line, and Cephie swims to you. She dives without a word, and you follow. It doesn't take long before you drag yourself up into the ship, stepping on to moss-covered metal plates. Cephie gestures widely, turning to give another grin. Your eyes adjust --
Skeletons and armored figures surround you. Unmoving. Died in ages long past. Some wear scraps of jumpsuits, scraps of clothing. All humans of various ages and various genders. Their bones are thin and brittle to the touch. But the armored figures draw your attention, as they should. Ancient Void Marines entombed in sarcophagi of circuitry and alloy. You kneel, fiddling with one as Cephie draws a cutter blade and goes to work on cutting the door open. The blade begins to melt through the alloy of the door as you peel one of the tin-cans open.
A man, his flesh mummified, lays within. While he's nothing more than a torso, his body is one you would expect from a Void Marine. Masses of muscle coiled tight over thick bones. A chiseled jaw with white hair and a knotted beard. Tubes and circuitry scar his flesh all down his chest to his groin. Life support systems, combat drug injectors, and who knows what else, all maintained by a highly advanced AI. The suit too is interesting. It's far denser than anything the Thorntons could have made, with a complex array of micro pneumatics and processors. His head doesn't fill the 'helmet'. Instead, that space is filled with complicated sensors and more of those finicky micro-processors. The breastplate is adorned beautifully in gold and silver with the image of twelve snakes twined together by the tails.
You shut the suit again as the door rattles to the floor. You listen for the hiss of a pressure differential. There is none.
"Internal atmosphere is compromised."
You nod, looking down the dimly lit corridor.
It runs east to west. Towards the far west is the fusion reactor. Darkness lies to the east. Algae and slime cover the floor, and ivy grow along the panels of the wall, eating into the metal. Across from you is another sealed door.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 07:50:44 pm
Carefully investigate the eastern path.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 10:25:48 pm
...I miss this. The songs. The cheer. Laughing in the face of fear with barely restrained glee. In the face of death. Alphira was always so sour.
"What's a Freelancer's brat like you singing old Pirate songs?" You tease.
"Oh, on the rocky road to-- Hey now!" Cephie stops singing, false indignation claiming her voice for the time, "Y'know what they say about Freelancers, right?"
"Educate me."
"That they're a silver coin's flip from turning black."
You snort, passing by another bulkhead. Cephie stops, and you pause. "It's unmarked."
"Don't mean there ain't something shiny inside, right? Dead men have no claims and all that." With a wicked grin, Cephie turns the handle on the door, pulling it open. There's a slight hiss.
"Didn't know you were the sort to rob crypts."
"I didn't know you were the sort to spoil my sport." Cephie rebukes, and the two of you detour into the bunkroom.
[20] Cephie strikes gold, or, in this case, platinum. Pulling open a cabinet, she withdraws an absolute beast of a weapon. A las-gun with an utterly massive drum magazine and a super coolant tank wrapping around the 'barrel'. The motif of snakes repeat, but there's also a crescent half-moon with an atomic cloud jutting out from it. All in platinum. Cephie's eyes light up. She presses a button on the side. Out of the machine, a cord extends, and a small holographic screen pops up -- auto-aim and a high quality targetting interface designed to mesh with cybernetics. [5000/5000] glows on the screen, along with an overheat gauge.
"See! Aren't you glad I stopped? He's a real beaut."
[12] You are a little less lucky. A bundled patch of plastic draws your eye from beneath the bed, and you pull it out. It's a solar recharger with a number of cables attached. The energy collection material is super-thin, cloth-like, and, as you learn by gently tugging on it, highly resistant to tearing. You stick the small pad in a pocket and tick your head out the door. Cephie rests the gun across her shoulders, draping her arms over it as she follows along.
It takes you an hour of wandering before you can find something that looks like a very vague symbol for 'bridge'. What you thought was graffiti, was instead an arrow, pointing up. The two of you climb up a shaft on the rickety, rusting ladder. The hatch above is closed, but a few quick jabs of your Cutter solves that issue. You drag yourself up the maintenance shaft and on to the bridge.
Monitors glow dimly in the dark, surrounded by chairs or framed by harnesses. You quietly take a seat at the captain's chair as Cephie looks over the various other monitors. She eventually takes a seat in the engineering station, her long fingers drifting over the keys. A diagnostic in high Empyreal appears. Then, the bridge comes to life with a gentle hum, the main display showing a virtual view of the outside. It's all a green blur.
"Could you pull up a full ship diagnostic for me?" You ask, politely.
"Yes, captain. It's going to be bare-bones for now."
Spoiler: 'Retributionist's Valhal' (click to show/hide)
"Good gods, they're using Commsbuddy. Bless'm." Cephie murmurs, leaning back in her chair, even as it creaks dangerously. "Looks like there's survivors -- want to break in that--"
Sensory feeds cut back on just as abruptly as they shut off.
"...right, right, sorry, sorry. Hovering Line and all that. You're right."
Spoiler: EMPYREAL MAP (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 10:44:25 pm
"Do you think it would be dangerous to defrost the survivors?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 10:51:31 pm
"We're connected to the Empyreal communication networks, though." Cephie continues, "Which means we can contact anyone, anywhere in the Empyre." She pauses, "Maybe I should call my mum and pa'..."
Cephie rises, moving over to the communications chair. "Would you mind?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 10:53:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 29, 2020, 11:06:52 pm
Cephie turns to the console, smiling to herself as she types in a code. Her finger hovers over one of the buttons: [send]. "Going to stop me, Pheobe? Or are you all talk? Huh? Wanna scrap? Wanna make me stop?" She's teasing, taunting, twisting to face you, finger replaced by a piece of carbon hovering over the button. "Do it. Come on. Let's see that righteous rage -- or are you a coward?"
Post by: ZBridges on June 29, 2020, 11:10:49 pm
Post by: King Zultan on June 30, 2020, 08:22:27 am
"I'm no coward, but fighting here seems like a bad idea. If you want to spar, we could do that when we get back to the fortress? But yeah, go ahead, call whoever you want."+1
Post by: Eschar on June 30, 2020, 09:34:32 am
((Characterization?))
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 11:09:23 am
Post by: Superdorf on June 30, 2020, 12:26:25 pm
...she underestimates our Lines. If she pushes the matter, she'll find she's got a [tiger-analogue] by the tail.
Is water really such a hindrance for us? Water means hydrogen and oxygen, in abundance-- material enough for all the plasma we might care to wield.
Failing that, how much silicon might we draw from these walls? Cephelia has not seen us wield the dust of McCreary.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 12:35:18 pm
What on earth, Cephie?the fighting might damage the ship as well
...she underestimates our Lines. If she pushes the matter, she'll find she's got a [tiger-analogue] by the tail.
Is water really such a hindrance for us? Water means hydrogen and oxygen, in abundance-- material enough for all the plasma we might care to wield.
Failing that, how much silicon might we draw from these walls? Cephelia has not seen us wield the dust of McCreary.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 12:49:11 pm
"I'll call you out then -- you're pathetic Pheobe." Cephie looks...disappointed in you. She slips a small diamond-tipped point from her pouch and, with a flick of her wrist, launches it at one of the...projections of the outside. It lodges in the wall, distorting the image.
In the same movement, she drops the piece of carbon, turning away from you as the call begins to connect. A picture of a smiling, cheerful family appears on the screen. Black hair, thin bodies and nearly translucent skin. She's relaxed, calm as she explains, "No one puts windows on the bridge of a battleship, Pheobe."
You slump in your chair, staring at Cephie's back as an older male answers the call. His scarred face twisting into a smile as he waves a cybernetic hand at his daughter. "CEPHIE! Hey, brats, wake up, your sister is calling--" He disappears from view briefly. When he returns, four sleepy teens and an older woman appear. There's faint annoyance there, yes, but all seem incredibly happy to see Cephie, who launches into a discussion about how much each has grown, and how they're all heartbreaker now-- so on.
"Hey -- you doing okay?" Cephie's mother asks, quietly, with concern.
"Yeah, mum, if I wasn't, you'd probably get a call from Magnus, wouldn't ya'?"
With a shake of your head, you turn your attention back to the ship, letting the other Ascended unwind and catch up with her genetic relatives.
Spoiler: 'Retributionist's Valhal' (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on June 30, 2020, 12:54:26 pm
>[NAME: Sadil of the Silicon's Rest, Mercrenary's Rest]
This is McCreary's vessel.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 01:05:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on June 30, 2020, 01:53:10 pm
...
...right.
So "McCreary" was never a real name; the man now venerated under that appellation went by "Sadil" in life. The Families, and quite possibly every "[demon]" ever to grace this rock of a plague-world, originated-- in one way or another-- here.
More to the point: we're not getting this thing off the ground. We can gut it for parts. I'm eyeing those antimatter warheads, in particular-- those things could well break the cohesion of our enemy entirely, wielded with discretion.
What's the blast radius on those things anyhow?
...do we want to try and put a call through to anyone, once Cephie's through with her little chat? Magnus? One of our Line-siblings?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 02:07:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 02:39:27 pm
Also, we might be able to get this thing off the ground if we disabled power saving mode.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 02:50:12 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 02:54:04 pm
Query the AI as to how far the ship can travel if the main thrusters were switched from power saving mode.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 03:04:58 pm
I would be hesitant to do that, as the pirates could be helpful in some way. We could try just waking up one or two of them and try to negotiate an alliance, for example. Let's see if we have enough fuel to make it back without disabling the cryo pods.
Query the AI as to how far the ship can travel if the main thrusters were switched from power saving mode.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 04:12:32 pm
The main thrusters are offline. They are non-responsive. You likely have to reactivate power at a junction near the engines, and do some troubleshooting and energy routing. However, most huge engines rely on hydrogen antimatter -- there's also the offline gravity module, which is required for any amount of travel in the Void that doesn't take thousands of years, as the engines are reliant on it to reduce mass.
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 04:29:13 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 04:31:44 pm
Let's get in-atmosphere travel working, so we can bring it to the fortress, before we worry about Void travel. I know where we can get some fuel. Attempt to reactivate power for the engines only.I think we need to head to the engine room first, if I’m not mistaken
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 04:32:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 05:14:21 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 05:19:15 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:58 pm
What's the difference between the components that are in power-save mode and the components that are listed as non-responsive?i think the difference is obvious, those in power save mode are saving power, while those that are non responsive are turned off completely
Since we can’t fix the engine ourselves, maybe we could look for parts of the ship we can fix, or at least start on the process, if there are no parts we can currently fix, we can check in with Cephie, if she’s done communicating, we could try communicating with either Magnus or Line siblings
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 05:50:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 06:56:09 pm
If we want to get this thing awake, the first thing would be restoring the main generator. Next would be to drain the water and clean the engines. Pushing an explosion through a clogged engine wouldn't be a good idea...
You muse as something dings behind you. The main elevator doors slide open, and out steps the largest Void Marine you've seen in your short life. His 'helmet' scrapes the roof of the bridge. His footsteps depress the metal floors. A massive las-cannon fixes on you even as you drive to the ground. It's lens is as big as your face. Jewels of platinum, Jade, and iron hang around his neck, but the most prominent display is the Ruby encrusted ring of twelve snakes burned into his black, black armor.
"Oi, the fuck you lot doin' on my ship? Couple of scrappers, eh? You best put your weapons down and put your hands up, else this is going to get real ugly." His voice is distorted by the armor, but he slurs his heavy brogue.
"...I'll call you back, mum." Cephie sighs.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 07:00:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 07:02:50 pm
Put down weapons, put our hands up and say that we found the ship and were hoping to repair it+1. I wonder if the ark ship would have fuel and parts we could use to fix this reactor?
Post by: Superdorf on June 30, 2020, 07:49:04 pm
Is void armor commonly shielded against war-nanites? If not... perhaps this is our chance to try that brain-stroke trick Alphira mentioned so long ago.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on June 30, 2020, 08:19:44 pm
Ah-hm. Void marine.I suggest not trying to kill him.
Is void armor commonly shielded against war-nanites? If not... perhaps this is our chance to try that brain-stroke trick Alphira mentioned so long ago.
Post by: Iris on June 30, 2020, 08:28:36 pm
Put down weapons, put our hands up and say that we found the ship and were hoping to repair it
Do this for now, but stay on our guard.
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 08:54:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 09:11:30 pm
"Of course ya' were damn well tryin' to fix it. This thing is a state of the art Naval vessel with enough wealth on it to buy a system. You must think I'm really bloody dumb if you think that weak excuse."
[9 vs 18]"Pheonix, put your damn hands down and stop playing the fool. Can I have a moment to talk with my friend?" Cephie spits the word with venom-- and doesn't give the Captain a chance to respond as she suddenly grabs you by the front of your armor and slams you into a wall with enough force to drive the wind from your lungs. "I'm sorry, Pheonix, but are you an idiot? Are you a thrice-damned fool? Did you hit your head hard on your fall from atmos?"
"--what?" You stutter, confused by the turn of events. The Captain has lowered his weapon, watching with mild interest.
"Y'know I'm always interested in dinner theatre an' all, but I want to get back--"
"Shut up." Cephie growls to him, turning her attention back to you, even as her grip tightens on your armor. She pulls your helmet off, looking you right in the eye as she growls, pushing you into the wall harder and harder. "Who. The. Fuck. Are. You."
Post by: ZBridges on June 30, 2020, 09:58:50 pm
Push not-Iyal. Hard. Then, send out our will until the captain is incapacitated.
Post by: Superdorf on June 30, 2020, 10:05:44 pm
Definitely time for anger.
"Patchwork girl." Spit the words. Set our will twisting. "Built on scraps. Stranded on a plague rock. I fight for my place, and my soul crumbles to godhood. I try to play nice, and people like you see weakness."
Wings. Voice of the Queen.
"Is this what you expect? Apotheosis? Blood and fire?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 30, 2020, 11:05:47 pm
"Patchwork girl." You growl, "Flame of Old Sol. Daughter of the Void and Alphira. Built on scraps. Stranded on a plague rock. I fight for my place, and my soul crumbles to godhood. I try to play nice, and people like you see weakness!"
[15+6 vs 20+5] Your voice booms out over the bridge, bouncing off the walls. Unrestrained will and deep anger pours into it. Your very voice splits the hydrogen from water, igniting sparklers of fire where it strikes. Determination made manifest.
"Is this what you wanted from me? Apotheosis? Blood and Fire? The Wrath of Old Sol?"
Cephie flinches back from your shout, face going pale. But she is not stunned, not weakened by your power, weathering it as best she can. She rises, painfully, slowly, to growl out, "AND! Pheobe fucking Gainer!"
You hesitate, confused.
"That is your name! Stories of you will be told for the ages on this world and the next. Never forget to tell the world your name -- I'm not following a coward. I'm not following Alphira. I'm not following the Crone Sol. I'm. Following. You. How can you expect your comrades to respect you if you have no respect for what you truly are!? Why do you hide in the darkness. Why do you cower from your own light?"
The armored giant in the room slowly drops to a slouch as machines hiss open. A thin, weathered old man stumbles into a kneel. His white beard, unbraided, would fall down to his knees. His multi-hued topknot, the same. Horrifying scars and cybernetics make up most of his body. More of it is metal than flesh. His limbs-- they are barely more than interfaces for the Voidmarine carapace. His abdomen has been exchanged for a direct life support unit.
"The Twelve Moon...Clans owes...life-debt."
Your fires dwindle, and fade, as you turn to look at the man. His brogue is a whisper of a rasp made with vocal cords not used to speech without an amplifier. "We served the Rimward King -- and were rescued from Tainted Space by Regis. We...we owe the survival of our clans...to...The Line of Sol."
"And did your forefathers serve Sol?" Cephie suddenly turns to look away from you, her facemask shifting up to hide her eyes.
"Ye-yes. During...the Great...Reclaimation."
Cephie speaks to you sideways, "This is what you are -- Daughter of Sol. Your Line's First is the [Patron Saint], the [Merciful God], the Epitome of Piracy. You are the Fire of Freedom. You were born with the hope of millions - trillions already laid upon your shoulders. Wear your mantle proud, because your soul and godhood are one."
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 12:09:24 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 01, 2020, 12:14:23 am
((...anyway, it's time I asked for some exposition. What was the Reclamation War? Who was Old Sol?))
The-- Reclamation.
My war.
Such fools we elders are, godling: triumphant one moment, fearful the next. We are husks of what we were. Dust-- but you! You shall wield your fate like a torch!
Speak with fire, Phoebe Gainer. This is, in its own way, a triumph.
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 12:32:42 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 12:43:08 am
Spoiler: The War of Reclaimation (click to show/hide)
"Within...reason. Our contract will...be forged with...favorable terms for...you." The old man wheezes, and slowly he rises, stepping back into his armor with a hiss of sealing servos.
Cephie slumps, tension leaving her shoulders. "I don't want to follow Alphira, or Sol. Those stories are gone, faded into the Dust. You want things to be different. You bloody well told a room full of aristocrats that you wanted a democracy. You use the monsters that all men fear as punching bags when you're pissed off. Don't forget it. The world won't let you."
Finally, "You're far from the Culmination, the turning of lead into gold, your true awakening, by the way."
You glance over to her, then shake your head.
"What is your name, Captain?"
"Murdach Of Valhol. I've glimpsed the gates many times, but was never granted entrance. I'm the elected Captain of the Twelve Moon Clans. I have no clan of my own--orphaned as I was on our Third Ship." The smooth, middle-aged brogue drawls, speaking in High Empyreal. "We'll hash out the contract whenever you have the time."
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 12:53:08 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 01:01:52 am
You give a nod.
"Judgin' by the way my display is green, we're under water. This was a salt-flat when we made a splash. How many? Two, three hundred years?"
"A thousand or so, by my reckoning." Cephie answers, letting her mask down to reveal her red eyes and runny nose. "Had a mutiny?"
"Nah, we sent lads out to work as mercs against the Plague. Why we came here in the first place -- heard a broadcast asking for men and women of fortune. A missile was about to hit us, though, so wes went into shelter. I've got a tear all across my poor girl, but she didn't break."
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 01:23:52 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 01, 2020, 02:26:02 am
Those words, that struggle... they needed to happen. I am grateful.
...not to say Cephie couldn't maybe use a hug at some point. Poor girl must've been terrified.
Nod. "That broadcast sought aid against the Plague, a millennium ago. The locals have been beating it back ever since, and losing-- we came here looking for something to turn the tables."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 02:45:02 am
"Well you found it. I've got about thirty of m'folk in level three Void armor, what survived the explosion. The lot of'm are harder than their own plating. Guns, a bit of ammo, those antimatter bombs you got interested in. What remains of a few families -- in total, twelve clans of miscreants and hellcats whats been carried on the Void." A sigh is echoed from the amplifier. "This...this is goin' to be more than a few months of mournin'. Any of my folk survive out there?"
Post by: Superdorf on July 01, 2020, 02:55:58 am
"...not exactly."
Smile thin. "They procreated. We call their descendants the Families."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 03:02:32 am
"Hey, hold up. Don't just tell'm that. He'll be depressed for weeks." Cephie giggles, taking a seat on the engineer's chair. "Tell him 'bout all the mischief they get up to."
Post by: Superdorf on July 01, 2020, 03:05:06 am
What the hey. Make a story of it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 03:16:35 am
"They still fight like us!" Murdach cheers.
"But smart too. Clever. They took one look at a Clan Voidmarine they...acquired, and built their own from las-gun parts, fusion generators and bits of scrap metal they had laying around. They took one look at a novelty radio and built one of the best military communication networks this planet probably has now. If I could make the call from here, they would bust down the door for me, so loyal enough I suppose..."
"You're either family to them or a contract-holder."
"I Ascended two of them, if that's of an--"
"My kin?! Ascended?!" The armor suddenly barks as the entire suit turns your way, the sensors on the 'helmet' zooming in on you. "That means we're kin now too, you know. You share our blood. I'm your great, great, great, great granduncle in law or some such nonsense now."
"Your people are still causing trouble...but Pheobe...who had Antimatter on this planet? Know any groups that could produce massive explosions?" Cephie questions, innocently. The way she holds herself, the slight, puzzled frown and the dark glee dancing in her eyes as they make contact with you -- all tells. Purposeful ones. Had you not known her, you would never notice the hint of a secret barely kept,
Post by: Superdorf on July 01, 2020, 03:25:22 am
Somebody enlighten a confused elder. Did-- did the Thorntons-- get hold of--?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 03:29:42 am
"What? Who did it?" Murdach questions, confused.
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 04:17:04 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 04:22:57 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 01, 2020, 04:26:05 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 01, 2020, 07:59:58 am
"Do you think there are any other Church caches around here? This planet is lucky that SEED didn't destroy you all, because your descendants are our most important allies against the Plague."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 01, 2020, 11:29:26 pm
["And if you need to know the value of something, let me know."] Cephie offers through Lucille.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 01, 2020, 11:35:09 pm
There is probably a better way of wording this, but I think this is the goal
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 12:13:26 am
["Until such time as the Plague is eliminated on this planet, you and your crew will agree to provide lethal military aid to defend against the enemies of the Line of Sol, both foreign and domestic, including but not limited to the Plague. You will also surrender 50% of the value of the salable goods on this vessel for the purposes of purchasing additional military aid and financing infrastructure improvements. In return, the state will make every effort to repair your ship, guarantee you and your crew a fair wage when an economy is established (with back wages paid at that time as well), and the state will also repay you before the end of your service for the seized goods. If you would like to settle down here in peacetime, I will provide you and your crew with generous plots of land."]
["Is that asking for too much or too little?"]
Post by: King Zultan on July 02, 2020, 07:15:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 02, 2020, 08:58:42 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 02, 2020, 09:50:43 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 09:51:40 pm
["Thanks, Cephie."]
"Captain, what do you think of these terms? This isn't the contract in full so much as a statement of intent to be fleshed out later. Feel free to take some time to get approval from your crew."
"Until such time as the Plague is eliminated on this planet, you and your crew will agree to provide lethal military aid to defend against the enemies of the Line of Sol, both foreign and domestic, including but not limited to the Plague. You will also surrender 50% of the value of the goods kept in the common trust on this vessel for the purposes of purchasing additional military aid and financing infrastructure improvements. In return, the state will make every effort to repair your ship, guarantee you and your crew a fair wage when an economy is established (with back wages paid at that time as well), and the state will also repay you before the end of your service for the seized goods. If you would like to settle down here in peacetime, I will provide you and your crew with generous plots of land."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 02, 2020, 09:58:47 pm
How does this sound?We’ll need to unfreeze the crew
["Thanks, Cephie."]
"Captain, what do you think of these terms? This isn't the contract in full so much as a statement of intent to be fleshed out later. Feel free to take some time to get approval from your crew."
"Until such time as the Plague is eliminated on this planet, you and your crew will agree to provide lethal military aid to defend against the enemies of the Line of Sol, both foreign and domestic, including but not limited to the Plague. You will also surrender 50% of the value of the goods kept in the common trust on this vessel for the purposes of purchasing additional military aid and financing infrastructure improvements. In return, the state will make every effort to repair your ship, guarantee you and your crew a fair wage when an economy is established (with back wages paid at that time as well), and the state will also repay you before the end of your service for the seized goods. If you would like to settle down here in peacetime, I will provide you and your crew with generous plots of land."
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 10:05:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 02, 2020, 10:06:36 pm
["Thanks, Cephie."]
"Captain, what do you think of these terms? This isn't the contract in full so much as a statement of intent to be fleshed out later. Feel free to take some time to get approval from your crew."
"Until such time as the Plague is eliminated on this planet, you and your crew will agree to provide lethal military aid to defend against the enemies of the Line of Sol, both foreign and domestic, including but not limited to the Plague. You will also surrender 50% of the value of the goods kept in the common trust on this vessel for the purposes of purchasing additional military aid and financing infrastructure improvements. In return, the state will make every effort to repair your ship, guarantee you and your crew a fair wage when an economy is established (with back wages paid at that time as well), and the state will also repay you before the end of your service for the seized goods. If you would like to settle down here in peacetime, I will provide you and your crew with generous plots of land."
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 02, 2020, 10:13:12 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 02, 2020, 10:14:29 pm
"Mineral and Energy claims and rights would sweeten the pot, so to speak-- I'm not planning on fleecing ya'll, but we'll need those too."we will give them too. The goal is plague elimination, ideally while keeping the rest of the biosphere intact
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 10:16:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 02, 2020, 10:23:29 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 10:26:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 02, 2020, 10:29:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 10:31:48 pm
"Can you provide the planet survey data? I would be fine with that request, but let's share information so that the deal can be worked out in good faith."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 02, 2020, 10:33:45 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 02, 2020, 10:40:24 pm
"Any data describing the general mineral composition of the planet and the locations and mineral depths of any particularly mineral-concentrated regions. Do you have storage cubes?"
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 12:01:57 am
<Mnemonic query: what geological information would be most useful to us in the development of this world and in the furthering of our cause, and what geological information would typically be bartered in a trade such as this? How was such information stored in my day?>
((Over the past few weeks, I've come to believe that mnemonic access is a conscious act on the part of our characters. It seems necessary, given the sheer volume of technical knowledge and Empyreal lore of which we remain ignorant-- lore a dust-elder really ought to know!))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 12:20:51 am
All of it. Planetary survey data, starcharts, nearest routes, fertility levels, possible fertility levels, mass spectrum readings-- the list is endless. All information has value in the planning and development of a planet. From metrological data to deviations in the output of the star. The higher the amount of data, the less risk, and the more valuable a system could potentially be -- at least, if you can process and visualize it.
Prominent locations of interest for grab and go are also noted on these geological and fertility surveys. Judging by your own experience - and Cephie's observation - with proper development this planet seems to have an abundance of life-sustaining minerals -- phosphorous, nitrogen, and so on. Either SEED trapped these from a supernova or stumbled upon an abundance already in the system. However, the planet's biosphere is still in its earlier stages--
As for the tech you used, you were in a period of transition from solid-state quantum-based data storage, also known as datacubes, to the smaller and more efficient gas-state systems. Datacubes are a standard in the rim -- and were the standard of your time in the Empyre. You think both are horribly outdated by now, but your Nulls can read data-cubes...There will be a pallet full, no doubt. Pads, like Cephie's, could also be useful -- especially if outfitted with a translation device, as they might have more data-storage now than the larger cubes...
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 01:06:16 am
"Gods be kind this planet is still a shit hole after all this time? It has Ascended and las-guns, antimatter weapons, but ya'll don't even have a damn Empyreal Network Relay? Right. Alright. I've got one held in common share -- I'll sell it to you for nearly free. You'll have to route through our systems if you want to send a message out of system, but we can work somethin' out for that."
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 01:13:48 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 01:18:28 am
["Tradition states, that, as we are hiring these people, we should provide them food and drink during the negotiation. The best we can offer. A sign of prosperity....a sign of hospitality."]
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 01:23:17 am
"[Can non-Ascended tolerate nano-feasts? Other than that... I have nothing here. We could prepare them some delicious [large insect] steak when we return?]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 01:31:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 01:40:58 am
"Of course, we have some rations, but little else as meeting you was a surprise to us. Please accept these with our gratitude. l will have more proper food sent to you, with my regards, as soon as I return to Stormmont. Please do visit it at some point, as we would like to give you the opportunity to sample our hospitality."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 01:52:35 am
The display flashes as he opens the cryopods and begins to 'thaw' his people out. "Give us a week to get straightened. I'll dig out that comms package for you so we can stay in touch. I'll need a week to pitch this to my people. Sway'm around. Got a place to stay for the night? We have plenty of available bunks for the time."
"Sleeping on a ship might be good for you. Its good to remember where you came from." Cephie opines.
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 01:57:43 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 03:27:38 am
["Right. If we don't see you in a the next twenty-four, I'm blowing this entire crater to Paradise."] Nicole gently warns. ["So if you are being held hostage or otherwise inconvenienced by whatever you found in there, you should escape before then. Otherwise, have a good night, Pheobe."]
There's a pause, and the mic is dropped again, followed by the Null reporting, politely, stiffly. ["I will keep an eye on Nicole Gainer, Mother Pheonix. We'll make contact if there's any trouble."]
You and Cephie follow Murdach into the lift, having to hug the edges of the elevator to give the giant enough room. He's silent, facing forward. The two of you follow suite, and eventually you step out into a long, metallic corridor, full of rounded edges and foam covering, and into the cryo-bay.
A mass of people mill despondently. They drift towards the cryopods that contain nothing but corpses or skeletons. Men, women, and children alike mourn quietly. You watch Murdach pause. "This is the worst part of bein' a leader, young queen." He drawls to you, softly and sadly. Then his voice booms out over the crowd. "The fuck' you lot doin', huh?! Are your tears goin' to bring them back? You lot got some magic in you you haven't told me about? Huh!? We're dead in the damn dirt -- how are you goin' to cry without water? Get your shit straight and get to work -- speak with your Crew Leaders and get to work! We're bloody Pirates. Death is the cost of life-- get to it!"
The crowd is stunned. No one speaks, even as their fists clench and their jaws tighten and work. Anger burns brightly. But the logic of the Captain's statement rings true. A few minutes pass, and work crews are formed, setting off to various parts of the ship. "'ey, Morganson, find these two highborn ladies a big room --" His speech cuts off as the rainbow-haired youth draws close. Dark eyes in dark skin look over the two of you, and a grin splits his lips.
"Yes, Captain." Morganson turns to you, setting off down the corridor.
"Enjoy the night, Patches!" Murdach calls after you.
The room is stately, if dusty. It was one of the ones that was sealed, and, after Morganson presses a few fingers to his wristpad, he explains, "This used to be the chief navigator's quarters. He didn't wake up. The nicest unoccupied space we got."
Everything is lavish in this room. The bed is a red wood that gleams in the light. There are various pieces of fine art plundered from a dozen different styles and cultures. The floors have a carpet on them -- and the blankets on the bed are soft and silky, etched with gold and a shimmering, rainbow-hued silk that reflects light a dozen different ways. A monitor hangs above a wrought iron desk that curls itself from the carpet like the finest ivy, and another monitor lies nearby a comfortable couch.
"Lady Patches -- other lady. Food will be around as soon as the cook and quartermaster get around to it. If you have need of anything, there's a console by the door. There's a shower on this corridor, can't miss it, if you need to refresh yourself. As far as I can tell, you two are...y'know, mortally unbound, so try not to get angry. Rooms' on lend and all that."
"Right. Thank you." You murmur, politely, examining the display of the console by the desk. "I can use this to send communications out of system?"
"Aye. Hooked up to the main network and the Empyre."
You nod, giving him a smile. He gives a slight nod, then turns and leaves you alone. The lights flicker, but Cephie claims the couch, pulling out her datapad. "You get the bed, I'll get the couch. You probably have about an hour to send a message without someone monitoring your transmission...here." She tosses the datapad over to you, and you glance down. Its a list of names and connection numbers. "Order of assumed closeness to this system. You'll be routed a bit, but those are contacts for above the table operations for each group that your siblings command."
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
There's a routing code for Magnus too, at the bottom of the page.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on July 03, 2020, 07:41:54 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 10:16:47 am
Others should chime in on this but I think we should try this Ashley 'Ashes' person.alright.
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 12:50:50 pm
There's a couple questions at play here, godling.
First (a question for everyone's consideration): where do we stand, long-term? Do we play Magnus' game, or do we join our Line-siblings in opposition?
Second: of our Line-siblings, who's most likely to turn a willing ear to our predicament? For that matter, who's most likely to be in a position to help?
Finally... is there anyone on this list you'd like to call for their own sake? Anyone you've fond memories of, through Alphira's mind?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 12:55:06 pm
((Lovely, thanks Egar! I'll assume any information I call up in this way outside of PMs/spoilers is available to all of us, just so I don't have to parrot forward what's been said already-- our system has handled similar information transfers nicely in past, and Constantine's got nothing to hide.))or the interface’s mind?
There's a couple questions at play here, godling.
First (a question for everyone's consideration): where do we stand, long-term? Do we play Magnus' game, or do we join our Line-siblings in opposition?
Second: of our Line-siblings, who's most likely to turn a willing ear to our predicament? For that matter, who's most likely to be in a position to help?
Finally... is there anyone on this list you'd like to call for their own sake? Anyone you've fond memories of, through Alphira's mind?
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 01:04:45 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 01:10:02 pm
Heh. The Interface was many things... it was not, by my reckoning, a purveyor of "fond memories". Chilly sort of creature.yes, but it still was able to think, and likely has memories of its own, which Phoenix now shares along with Alphira’s and Phoebe’a, though Phoebe has only known this planet
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 02:38:43 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 02:40:50 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 02:49:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 02:54:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 02:58:13 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 02:58:46 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 03:00:53 pm
This planet has a lot of potential. I'd rather not have it destroyed, as we are unlikely to find another SEEDed planet.Right. We might still be able to tell our siblings about the plague, I don’t think destroying a biosphere is the only way a plague is destroyed.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 10:12:17 pm
"What is Ashley like?" You question Cephie, hesitating.
[12]"...She's a bit of a schemer, a manipulator. She's technically in the Nobility and Navies good graces, out of all of the Kindred of Alphias. Inheritance is still being contested, as far as we can tell. She might see an opportunity in you for in-family politics." Cephie shrugs, glancing up at you. "I want you to try something for me. I want you to sit and think about who would be the best person to call."
Rupert...Rup. I do remember him. He's also known as 'Crematoria', in his legends. He burned his way across worlds during the war, when a message needed to be sent. Some people called him Sol's Herald-- he was used as an intimidation piece -- second only to Alphira.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 03, 2020, 10:21:03 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 10:29:45 pm
Then we shall call Rup.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 10:32:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 10:36:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 10:37:08 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 10:38:41 pm
First: in calling Rupert, we're throwing our lot in against the Empyre. If that's the course we intend to take, well and good-- but unless we're willing to commit, we'd be better off refraining for the time being.
Second... er. What are we in Rupert's eyes, at this point? A sister? A comrade-in-arms? An oath-breaker? An abomination? He may not be so sympathetic as we'd hope.
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 10:39:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 03, 2020, 10:48:24 pm
If it were myself in this position, φοῖνιξ... I'd begin by calling Magnus. Find out what he wants with us. If I liked his answer, I'd send word to this Ashley girl for a political lead-- if not, I'd seek out whatever allies against the Empyre the Line Sol has to offer.
That said... I can't help but feel your friend there wants this to be your choice. Think on it, as she suggests. Draw your own conclusion.
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 10:51:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 11:04:37 pm
You sit and think about the situation, about who to call...you shut your eyes and drift into a dream. A laugh. A knife in the dark. A world reduced to ashes and tombs -- the paths that branch off from this moment are infinite and hard to ascertain. A hand rests on your shoulder. A wave of improbabilities and false futures cloud your mind. Pain splits your skull, and when your eyes flicker open, Cephie is leaning in front of you--
"Mmh. You look more confused than before." Cephie smiles with pointed teeth, "But it's interesting to look at it from the outside, at least. Like watching someone fall asleep.
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 11:18:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 03, 2020, 11:19:50 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 03, 2020, 11:38:22 pm
On further reflection, Rupert is a monster that destroys entire planets. We don't want someone like that to do their thing and attract unwanted Empyreal concern and attention. I suggest that we see what Ashley can do for us. Before that, however, I agree with Constantine that we should contact Magnus first so that we can get a better idea of what we need from Ashes.
Contact Magnus.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 05:51:03 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 04, 2020, 07:09:51 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 03:01:04 pm
"[Who are you and how did you get this number?]" He questions, in perfect High Empyreal.
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 03:13:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 03:38:00 pm
"[I am Phoenix, and I am contacting you from Mercenary's Rest. You know me as Alphira. I understand that you are interested in me?]"((Are we talking to Rupert or Magnus right now? I remember 1 vote for each. I ask since if we’re contacting Rupert, I don’t think he’s “interested” in us))
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 03:46:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 03:59:48 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 04:15:05 pm
edit for clarity.((Thanks))
"[I am Phoenix, and I am contacting you from Mercenary's Rest. You know me as Alphira. I understand that you are interested in me?]"[What do you want from me?]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 05:14:06 pm
"[I-i am Pheonix -- I...I used to be Alphira.]"
"[Alright, first of all, the face is all wrong. Way too young. Next, look at that hair! Alphira's hair is blood red, it's Jax's hair that's that color. Next, Alphira wouldn't be missing an arm. So stop playing.]"
"[I'm telling the truth!]"
"[Would Alphira ever claim to tell the truth!? Come on -- you have her personality report.]"
[-] You open your mouth to protest-- "Kneel!" The spikes in Lucille jam deep into your flesh, her plates threaten to break bone, and sharp shocks of pain lash every inch of you. You drop to your knee, as [NOBLE PRESENCE OVERRIDE] echoes in your brain. Fear makes your heart race -- but so does your anger. A steady beat, like a war march.
"[...that was your armor -- not your essence. Fascinating. You are not Alphira, but not Cephie. Tell me everything, before I shatter your spine.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 05:20:57 pm
How much do we tell him?
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 05:26:44 pm
Unfurl our wings to demonstrate that we are of the line of Sol.
"I have created a new identity for myself, but this is Alphira's body. What can I do to prove to you that I was Alphira so that we can move on to other matters?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 05:29:29 pm
[Lucille, deactivate.]+1 actually, unfurling our wings will damage cohesion, would it not be enough to create a small controlled fire near us by breaking hydrogen/oxygen bonds?
Unfurl our wings to demonstrate that we are of the line of Sol.
"I have created a new identity for myself, but this is Alphira's body. What can I do to prove to you that I was Alphira so that we can move on to other matters?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 05:31:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 05:36:59 pm
[6] [NOBLE PRESENCE OVERRIDE] is Lucille's response to your command."Right pinky finger, activate all muscles." You bite your lip to stifle the scream of pain that feeds into your hand. Your pain nullifiers aren't working -- you feel every fracture, every twist. "Stop. Punishment shocks, continuous, twenty-five percent."
A bolt of lightning surges through you, seconds stretch into infinity as you twist and writhe constrained within your suit of armor. You cannot think, you cannot feel -- there is only pain.
"Stop."
"[Now, you ten credit knock off in ornamental armor-- tell me who you are. If you say Alphira, one more time, I'll break every bone in your body.]" A snarl twists his lips, "[I studied every document, every scrap of information about Alphira. The way she talks, the way she stands, the way she argues -- I have entire office buildings built around finding and understanding her. You. Are. Not. Alphira.]"
...pain...
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 06:04:20 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 06:14:46 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 04, 2020, 06:20:19 pm
"[I didn't say that. I said I was Alphira. My name is Phoenix. Are all nobles of the Empyreal this dense, or are you just a special case?]"Let's not antagonize the empyreal noble who can kill us with just a thought.
[I am Phoenix Sol. Leader of the humans fighting against the Plague threatening this planet.]
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 06:21:55 pm
Quote
"There won't be a Plague when he finishes. But there might not even be a Biosphere. Your people will survive. I hope. But please, understand...Magnus isn't here for the plague. He's not here for this backwater rim world. He's here for you. To fight you. The Endless Nobility...they're inhuman. They don't care about one planet, or two, or even a dozen. What's one ant colony to the boot that treads upon it?]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 06:23:02 pm
If he finds out about the Plague, he will destroy the entire biosphere of this planet.this is true. I think just answering the question will be sufficient
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 04, 2020, 06:31:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 06:32:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 06:53:07 pm
"There's a start. Wonderful. You're on Mercenary's Rest, you've said?" Magnus questions, cutting you off.
You try to nod, and Lucille's gorget tightens around your neck. "Yes." You croak instead.
"Alphira used to own your body?
"Yes."
"Interesting. Very interesting. Tell me about your childhood? Do you remember it?"
"Just...bits and pieces. Dreams."
"Alphira is dead. Annoying, but likely. Now, here's what's going to happen to you. I'm not interested in weaklings and fledgelings. I'm not interested in scum like you. You've committed two mortal sins here, Pheobe Gainer, you didn't kneel -- and you wasted my time." He pauses, frowning. "How do you plead?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 06:56:20 pm
[-] You open your mouth to protest-- "Kneel!" The spikes in Lucille jam deep into your flesh, her plates threaten to break bone, and sharp shocks of pain lash every inch of you. You drop to your knee, as [NOBLE PRESENCE OVERRIDE] echoes in your brain. Fear makes your heart race -- but so does your anger. A steady beat, like a war march.
"[...that was your armor -- not your essence. Fascinating. You are not Alphira, but not Cephie. Tell me everything, before I shatter your spine.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 07:03:13 pm
[I didn’t kneel, and I did waste time. I’m sorry about that. I was told you were after Alphira. Since Alphira’s dead, am I correct in thinking you’re not coming anymore?]
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 07:04:51 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 07:14:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 07:16:34 pm
"[As soon as you see me. The respect due to an Empyreal Noble.]"
"[I...I apologize. I did not understand...I'm sorry.]"
"Prostate yourself."
Your face slams into the carpeted floor as your body lays prone on the deck of the Voidcraft. "[And that's because I'm petty.]"
"[All I want to know -- if she's dead, are -- you still coming?]" You manage to growl through grated teeth. Your heart pounds like a war-drum, and its nearly all you can hear.
"[I need to confirm her death and take you into custody or kill you. So yes.]" He nods, pressing his hands together to gesture at you. "[Listen, little girl. I'll be merciful. I won't kill you right now. Instead, I'll lock your armor like that and put on a bit of torture. When I get to where you are in a decade or so, I'll let you free. If you're still sane.]"
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 07:22:04 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 07:34:05 pm
...no.
nonono.
nonononon̸o̴.̴
n̸o̵t̸ ̴o̵u̵r̷-̵0̴0̵ ̸d̸a̴u̸g̵h̸t̵e̴r̷.̶
F̸̗̕I̴͙͗R̷̖̍E̷̗̎.
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 04, 2020, 07:39:52 pm
[You can't, without my leadership the Plague will consume this planet. There are at least 4 Ascended present on this planet, along with several voidships. If the Plague is not contained, it will be free to spread elsewhere.]
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 07:52:06 pm
Crap. We need give Magnus a reason to let us go. Mentioning the Plague seems like our best chance at self-preservation.+1
[You can't, without my leadership the Plague will consume this planet. There are at least 4 Ascended present on this planet, along with several voidships. If the Plague is not contained, it will be free to spread elsewhere.]
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 07:57:37 pm
You feel a burst of rage from an ancestor -- the drums intensify. Bloodlust, like an old friend, wraps its arms around you. Your claw of fire bursts from your left shoulder, incinerating the carpet. Your wings flare to life. You devour the air and the moisture, filling the room with heat and fire. It burns bright red, a harsh glow of reflected light.
You do not feel the pain, even as you use your claw to rip piece after piece from Lucille. You do not feel the savage welts and lacerations you make. You do not smell the burning of your flesh and the floor around you. Nor do you cry out when you pull Lucille's spikes from your bones. There is nothing -- nothing but this minute of blood and pain. You gaze doesn't waver from Magnus, your anger doesn't falter, and it drives you to pull yourself free of Lucille, splattering the room in your own blood as you drag your shredded body to the terminal.
[48 vs 5]
"No. You can't-- The Plague --" You begin to murmur, swaying, unfocused -- lost in rage. "These people...need me."
"[You said your name was Pheonix Sol? Which do you prefer? Patches, Pheonix, or Pheobe? It doesn't matter -- I'm coming to kill you. Not Alphira. You.]" He's smiling, his eyes are all alight with joy, and he begins to squeeze his palms together. "[Get stronger! This is going to be so much fun! You're insane! That murderous intent -- that bloodlust! Oh Cephie is going to get a reward for this! I know that oily little cannibal is nearby. CEPHIE. ENTER.
[16] The door gives a beep, and Cephie stiffly enters with a grit of her teeth. She goes pale when she sees you, her eyes widening in shock. Her lips purse, her breath deepens.
"You did well! I'll wire a reward to your family this instant -- I'll give you more when I fight her!"
"Let me go...I ca--don't leave me here."
"You!" You growl through a bleeding throat -- KILL. Kill...kilkilillkill.
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 08:02:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 08:05:38 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 08:07:13 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 04, 2020, 08:08:50 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 08:14:58 pm
She loves you.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 08:33:23 pm
...
...
...
"I'm going to kill you." You rasp gently, facing Cephie. She flinches, but then grits her teeth.
"Do it. Make it quick oathbrea-"
"I'm going to kill you Magnus."
You cut the comms-- the console explodes in a burst of flames as Magnus laughs. "Dismissed. Keep up the good work, you damn cannib--"
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 08:39:08 pm
Heal.
"Cephie, get me another console and pay the Captain for this one... with your own money. I'm not going to hurt you, okay?"
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 04, 2020, 08:47:36 pm
We need to pull out all the stops.+1
Heal.
"Cephie, get me another console and pay the Captain for this one... with your own money. I'm not going to hurt you, okay?"
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 08:55:58 pm
I'm so sorry, Φοίβη.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 09:11:05 pm
Is the comms device broken? I think we ended the communication without breaking it.
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 09:14:08 pm
the console explodes in a burst of flames as Magnus laughs.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 09:18:22 pm
"Get me another console from the-" You turn your attention away, towards the charred console and the bloody armor laying on the floor at the foot of the desk. There's a pool of your dark, almost black blood, dripping into the gouged and rent floor.
"You're insane." Cephie whispers, gently. She hesitates, pressing a hand to your bloodstained face. "Lay down and rest. Please."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 09:21:24 pm
“Sorry for the damage”
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 09:33:51 pm
There is one concern still to address.
Lie down. "My nano-feasts."
"In twenty-four hours... Nicole Gainer will blow this vessel apart... if I do not rejoin her before then. That must not happen."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 09:41:03 pm
...she's right. No need for apologies-- but she's right.Oh shit, will Cephie be able to swim while carrying us as we sleep? Oh wait, it shouldn’t take...how long have we been on the ship?
There is one concern still to address.
Lie down. "My nano-feasts."
"In twenty-four hours... Nicole Gainer will blow this vessel apart... if I do not rejoin her before then. That must not happen."
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 09:46:22 pm
...she's right. No need for apologies-- but she's right.+1
There is one concern still to address.
Lie down. "My nano-feasts."
"In twenty-four hours... Nicole Gainer will blow this vessel apart... if I do not rejoin her before then. That must not happen."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 10:26:15 pm
Tell Cephie about Nicole’s “rescue” plan of blowing the place up in 24 hours, then rest
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 10:35:57 pm
"You made Magnus happy." Cephie murmurs, with a sigh. "That's hard to do. Thanks, I guess...but...look at you. You're a mess. I thought you were going to kill me there. I'm glad you didn't."
"Me...too." You murmur. Another pill is produced from a pouch, with a moon printed on it. She pops it into her mouth, then offers you one.
"For the trauma. Everything will fade -- you'll feel like it was just a bad dream."
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 10:40:08 pm
"Yes, please."
Post by: Eschar on July 04, 2020, 10:44:48 pm
My fellow advisors: Lucille cannot restrict our... more fiery abilities, correct? Can we install a safeguard in Lucille, make her critical functions dependent on a piece that is vulnerable to heat? Something we can replace easily, though. I'd like to see her "noble override" that.
((I'm gone for a few days and all this happens?!))
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 11:13:22 pm
Yes to the moon pill
Rest
Post by: Eschar on July 04, 2020, 11:15:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 11:16:19 pm
Not making her completely vulnerable to heat: just some small part that would still be protected from outside damage, but that our combustive capabilities can still disable.What’s the purpose of hindering her? Hindering us?
Post by: Eschar on July 04, 2020, 11:17:53 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 11:19:15 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 04, 2020, 11:28:58 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 04, 2020, 11:34:19 pm
((As with the fabricator, DRM strikes again.))((What does DRM stand for? Is it the name of the company that makes the fabricators?))
Post by: ZBridges on July 04, 2020, 11:35:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 04, 2020, 11:51:26 pm
[1]--you scream yourself awake, clawing at the bed, and struggling against sleep paralysis. Too much-- too much-- you twist and writhe as fires begin to lick at the edges of the sheets.
Cephie wraps her arms around you, gently. Your struggles cease -- a center of wood smoke in a vortex of fear. You pass into the eye of the storm, slumping against her. Your hand shakes. Weakly you murmur, afraid, "I don't want to sleep al--"
"Don't beg." Cephie murmurs, "Just kiss me and shut up."
She's gone in the morning, and you rise to find a bundle of clothes on your bed, topped with a towel. A cold meal of what you assume was dinner lays on one of the tables nearby. You rise, eat, and step into the corridor. Last night is a blur. Your head pounds, painfully, but the cold shower of stale water helps. You drink some -- and spit it out.
You dry yourself with the towel, pulling on the stiff, heavy fabrics of the Pirates. It itches, but the weight is comforting, as is the number of straps and belts -- the formality of it all. A wrapping, an undershirt, a vest, a coat, and an overcoat all weigh you down. You lace and wrap the boots, strapping them to your feet.
They're functional boots too -- a spacer's pair of boots. Steel, leather, and plastic, all set atop a magnetizing base that hooks you to tethers should there be a sudden loss of gravity.
You return to the lent room, examining the new console on the desk. Cephie, or someone else, has set your armor aside in a blood-stained duffle bag and cleaned the pool of blood from the floor.
Cephie returns, grinning from ear to ear. She draws a square plastic container from her coat pocket and fishes out a roll of paper. A heavy herbal smell lingers in the air. She flicks one to you, then claims a seat on the couch and opening her datapad. "After that stunt last night -- well, you were monitored. They put that up on the big screens though-- they cut out a few pieces, but these bastards love that stuff. Spitting in a Noble's face, defying them -- eat it right up."
"I barely remember it."
"Those pills help with trauma. Makes it easy to forget. Blurs the details.What are you planning on doing now?"
You examine the tube of herb and paper, lips quirking as you consider Cephie's question. You have a question for her, but...business.
Right.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on July 04, 2020, 11:57:57 pm
((I'm gone for a few days and all this happens?!))((I turn in for the night as everyone's puzzling over communication priorities... I wander in the next evening, and we're in the throes of hell. This game moves scary fast sometimes. :-X ))
Looks like the update got edited out.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 05, 2020, 12:05:15 am
You can line up suggestions or suggest an agenda for the week. <.<
Post by: ZBridges on July 05, 2020, 12:10:04 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 05, 2020, 12:13:39 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 05, 2020, 08:19:23 am
We should contact Ashes and/or Rupert now that we know that Magnus means business. We need all the help we can get. Have Cephie eyeball the 50% goods we got and give us a rough estimate of the value. In addition, see if there are any local and discreet traders near the system that don't ask too many questions. Also, use the Unlimited Meals DRM on the dropship to produce some decadent meals for the pirates, as we said we would.+1 Sounds like all good things to me.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 05, 2020, 12:07:51 pm
Let’s contact Rupert. +1 the rest. How long have we slept? We should tell Nicole we’re alright. How long do we have before she blows up the ship?We should contact Ashes and/or Rupert now that we know that Magnus means business. We need all the help we can get. Have Cephie eyeball the 50% goods we got and give us a rough estimate of the value. In addition, see if there are any local and discreet traders near the system that don't ask too many questions. Also, use the Unlimited Meals DRM on the dropship to produce some decadent meals for the pirates, as we said we would.+1 Sounds like all good things to me.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 05, 2020, 06:13:54 pm
"...I suppose."
"Like a mad dog. You know what's the best thing to be, near a mad dog? A good friend!" The sensors track to Cephie, "Or the one holdin' the leash."
"I want Cephie to inspect the common trust." You ignore the dig, gesturing to her. "And I need to leave the ship."
"I'm guessin' its somethin' to do with the hovers tha' are idlin' nearby."
You nod.
"We've established an access point. I'll have a lad show ya'. Come along with me Cephie."
A youth is summoned to the bridge, and after taking the elevator to another floor, you, Cephie, and Murdach part ways. You head to the access point. Its an airlock on the top of the ship, one of many, but you step on an elevator and rise up, into the sunlight. The waters have receded on this part of the Valhol, leaving a fine drying mud across the surface. Chunks of ice melt on the warm metal.
"You've drained some of the lake, I see." You walk to the edge of the ship, looking at the dropoff into the water below. The many cracks and rips in the hull are apparent, but it shifts beneath your feet.
"Started up our hydrogen factory, ma'am. Fuel for the secondary."
You nod, letting your wings slip free, lifting into the sky. Over the crater lake you glide, past the Valhol work-crews that dig out skeletons and corpses from the nooks and crannies of the ancient vessel. Past the ring of ice and the slurry of water, pass the marshy land with its stalks of gold that sway in the breeze. A camp has been assembled. Five hovercrafts sit in a clearing, a number of Warmachines stand at attention, but visibly relax on your approach. William strides out of a tent, approaching you with a cocky grin.
"Phebe! Good to see you." He calls.
"William. I'm showing up to let you know I'm not a hostage."
"If something can hold you hostage. we wouldn't have had a chance." He looks through the spaces in the tree, to the black form of the Valhol sunk into the mud and ice. "That's a voidship? I didn't think they would be so big."
Tiffany Mellone steps out of one of the hovercrafts, striding towards you, followed by Nicole Gainer. Mellone bows her head, but Nicole gives you a slap on the back.
"I was told by ... your retainer? That there was a job for me here -- along with a Geoydes and the finance ministry?" Mellone questions.
"Where's Geoyde?"
"Puking his guts out. Hoversickness." Nicole offers cheerfully.
Post by: ZBridges on July 05, 2020, 06:57:05 pm
"I need you and Geoyde to work out a deal with them regarding the mineral and energy deposits on this planet. We have datacubes with information on the locations of significant mineral deposits, so they will have to be accessed by a Child of SEED to provide you with the necessary information. Use this information to negotiate."
"In addition, we are entitled to 50% of the goods kept in the common trust on this vessel. We'll need a team to work out the details of the valuation and determine what exactly we are entitled to."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 05, 2020, 10:01:26 pm
"Oh. Right. Yes." You slip it into one of the many pockets of the greatcoat, giving a nod. "Thank you, Daughter Mellone."
"Yes, Mother Pheonix." Mellone turns away towards one of the hovercraft, filled with a number of nervous-looking individuals in clean, precise Scholar suits, with green and teal capelets dropped over their shoulders. An ill-looking Geoyde is helped into the ship by one of these Scholars. He gives you a miserable look, and then the ship closes behind him. Another, a group of Warmachines, lifts up first, followed by the delegation. You spread your wings and join them, by the time you catch up, the hovercrafts have landed.
Murdach is brought up in the elevator -- with seven of his Voidmarines. Fully armed and standing a few [feet] taller. Hard as steel and dark as the void -- your Warmachines, when they disembark, do not seem as intimidating as these behemoths. More like children playing dress-up than actual soldiers.
"Ah, so this is your delegation'? And here I thought you had grit." Murdach taunts with a harsh laugh. "Bringin' such a paltry force."
[17 vs 12]
"No, these armored individuals are extra guards for you, for the duration of our discussion." With a flex of your wings and a cheerful smile, you return the taunt with a wide, beatific smile. "My wrath needs reason to abate, sometimes. As I'm sure you've witnessed."
William approaches from behind, giving a dark chuckle. "You truly are the Angel of Mercy, Pheonix. Sometimes I wish you weren't so damn merciful." His eyes drift over the armor of his counterpart, Murdach, and the smile curves wider. "But then why would you need me? Besides my stunning personality?"
"Well met!" Murdach laughs, then gestures. For you, he's speaking High Empyreal, but you know for a fact he's also speaking the SEED common tongue-- "Come on in. Enjoy our hospitality -- please remember, everything has a price! Take a rest!" Then the sensor on the top of Murdach's armor twists towards you. "Pheonix. My people wish to question you after my speech and before the calling of the vote. If you want our assistance, sway them."
You nod, adjusting your coat as you and your retinue enter into the ship. Nearby the airlock is a well-furnished, comfortable room, with a long table surrounded, except in the middle, by chairs. All along it, in front of each of the chair, is a console raised from the wood.
A motley collection of pirates enter, sitting across from the precise and neat lines of your bookies. Geoyde and Mellone take leading seats, as if shielding their people from the other group. The pirates laugh and joke with each other, while the bookies and diplomats sit quietly.
"Wait here." You murmur, as your Warmachines take up defensive postings for the diplomats. William sits on the table between the two groups, smiling cheerfully but he's coiled like a spring. A hand on his belt and his cybernetic muscles bared.
"Aigh'. Listen up. Only goin' to speak like this once." Murdach stands in front of a crowd of huddled pirates, their outfits as mismatched as their personalities -- cybernetics are on full display, and in the back of the group, you even notice a monster of a man, his torso implanted on to eight, long legs. His arms have been replaced with a number of tools, grasping implements and various gear. Another which catches your eyes is a dark-eyed young man, skinny and thin, with great bags under his eyes. He has no ears, and his shaggy hair is wet and covered in algae.
"So, I stand before you with Pheonix of Sol. Descendent of Regis, the Rimward King, the Slayer -- and of Sol herself! Fate crossed our paths, and she wishes to make a deal with us. Now, we're dead in the dirt. This is not our home, this is not the skies we've been promised, nor the night that we own. But, for the foreseeable future, we're grounded. Now, I've had to make some concessions -- we need land for food and settlin', we need minerals and energy for industrializing, and we need somethin' to gain from all this. Pheonix here wants our survey data, some of our common stock--" Murdach weathers the boos in silence, but he raises his hands. "...but more importantly, she wants out weapons. This planet is fertile -- we know that. This planet is wealthy -- we know that."
"But more importantly -- and this is news I ain't been wantin' to break, but it might change some of your minds." He raises his hands. "In this system is all the precursors for a Relay. In fifty, to ninety years, this system will have a Empyreal gate. Mark my words. Its only fifty light years from the old Relay for this sector of the Rim."
"Now, with that consideration' in mind -- how many of you want to settle here now? How many of you want to turn your [swords to plows], and with a smile, hand your grandchildren all the riches a new sector like this can offer? I'll turn this over to Pheonix -- you know the Lady by now -- a trueborn Pirate, like her Line-Mother Alphira. Like the Rimward King. Like Old Sol! She ripped herself apart to spit in the face of a damn Noble. She's threatened to kill that very Noble for the slight of makin' her bow! What do we have to fear when we're contracted to this monster of a Lady? Nothin' but our own damn prides."
Murdach turns, stepping away -- and with a gentle push of his backhand, nudges you into the center of the crowd. Somebody calls out from the assembled Pirates, curious, "Why'd you do it? Why you wann' kill Magnus?"
[1]
Your breath catches in your throat. You open and shut your mouth, looking out over the crowd.
Post by: Eschar on July 05, 2020, 10:14:15 pm
I doubt this is an appropriate reply, but it's an option.
Post by: ZBridges on July 05, 2020, 10:58:17 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 05, 2020, 11:01:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 05, 2020, 11:06:59 pm
"You saw the footage. I gave him a chance-- I called him in good faith. He spat that trust in my face. He thought he could break me."
"He flies now for this world. My world. He thinks he can threaten me? He thinks he can threaten my people? I will cast him down. I will burn him myself."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 12:01:14 am
[18+1 vs. 7+5]"I gave him a chance. In good faith I tried to negotiate, tried to speak with him-- he spat in my face. He tried to break me." Your nails dig into the flesh of your hand, drawing blood as you begin to pace. "He thinks he can threaten me? My world? My People? MY GODSDAMNED WORLD?!"
Then you exhale, hiding your wings. Another shaky exhale, another harsh breath as you keep your eyes on the floor, a savage snarl twisting your worlds. "I will cast him down. I will -break- him. Then I will burn him myself. Until there's nothing left--"
"Because fair is fair."
There's silence from the assembled pirate crew leaders and contract holders. Smiles creep across their faces. Before anyone can say anything else, Murdach steps forward. "All in favor?"
It's unanimous. All but a few hands lift into the air.
"I'll give the word to begin the negotiations of our contract." Murdach nods, dipping his head and turning away, his jewelry clinking against his armor. You turn and leave with him as the crowd disperses.
The survey meeting is...boring. At the end of it, they want a ten percent perpetual income from the sale of minerals and energy from this world. Assistance with settlement. Assistance with industrialization. Mutual protection pacts. A permanent harbor in any possible future Void docks. They lay a claim to a chunk of the ocean that they found is developing crude oils. In return, they've agreed to a fifty-year contract of military services, mutual technological development and to turn over fifty-five percent value of all goods held in common stock -- which comes to roughly, at current market prices, comes to some forty-one thousand, three hundred and forty-seven [Empyreal Energy Credits]. Cephie, who has joined you, quietly shows you the value of a single one of those credits. Currently in this sector, a baseline automatic las-gun kit costs roughly three credits. A portable, high-efficiency solar charger, about as large as a hovercraft? Twenty credits. One ton of flour? Ten credits. But it'd be a worthless cargo. Antimatter fuel? Ten thousand and five hundred credits for a kilogram -- but there's an issue.
"We can't give them what they're asking."
"[Two hundred million ha] isn't that bad. The border they want isn't even close to the Holyland--"
"Let me rephrase it then." Mellone states, having pulled you out the door to speak quietly to you. "This is not our land to give. The Outlanders own this part of the world -- this is a holy site to them! One of their folk heroes slew a [water demon, water wolf] that dwelled here. They farm this lake's banks for their grains."
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 12:25:13 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 12:29:06 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 12:31:55 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 12:33:49 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 12:35:15 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 06, 2020, 01:07:26 am
I understand there's tactical considerations to be had here, but we elders have no right to ask this of our heir. It's her life.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 01:08:54 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 06, 2020, 01:44:40 am
φοῖνιξ isn't our puppet. To ask this-- to force this-- we'd be wielding her like one. We haven't the right.
...we never had the right.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 01:46:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 01:53:26 am
"It's mine one way or another." You bluntly state, with the slightest of frowns. "So we'll treat it as such." Mellone gives a small, tight nod, and returns to the negotiation table. You listen for a little while, but are soon bored by the discussion. Murdach left when the discussion turned to [hectares] of land. You suppose you could stay to understand the full treaty--or you could go do something else.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 01:56:11 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 03:01:53 am
Read the dossier.We could do that after hearing the treaty
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 03:35:49 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 06, 2020, 09:05:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 05:57:37 pm
Spoiler: Dossier (click to show/hide)
You follow William out into the hallway during one of the recesses. The pirate Voidmarine laughs when William draws out a las-gun, and fires at the massive suit of armor. It impacts with a sizzle before it dissipates. The only proof a shot was fired at all is a pockmark not even a [millimeter] deep. William nods as the pirate continues laughing through her speaker. He takes a step forward-- wrapping his black arms around the armored figure the best he can-- and with a strain of every muscle in his body, he lifts the multi-ton Voidmarine up and slams her into the deck. She gasps in surprise as he suddenly stands on top of the armor, panting and sweating from the exertion with a twist if a grin. He produces a knife as she struggles to reach him -- or her gun. With a savage strike, he begins to try and prise the carapace open.
"Enough playing." One of the other Voidmarine states, much to William's and the prone pirate's mirth.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 06:29:02 pm
"Are you having some fun, William? It looks like even a voidmarine can't withstand am Ascended."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 06:33:03 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 06:34:41 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 06:46:44 pm
"Aye, you did." The Pirate laughs, straightening up and coming to a stand with mild difficulty.
"I also found a weakness."
"An apt description -- she does have a weakness for being on her back." The other Pirate states, bluntly. The first Pirate doesn't respond verbally -- instead slamming her fist hard into the chest of the other pirate with an echoing clang of metal on metal. The second Pirate stumbles back, laughing.
The contract stands, and both sides representatives agree to the terms. Cephie pulls you aside, and the two of you discuss using her ship's printer to make a feast. She hesitates, but agrees, pointing out that you should probably get in contact with Emma to begin forming a story -- after all, these are the Barons of Steel that once threatened the Holyland. You nod in agreement, asking her to plan out the party with Emma. Cephie gives a bow of her head, leaving your side to return to Stormmont with the delegation to begin organizing the feast. A pirate approaches her, extending out a massive briefcase-style system. A private Empyreal Communication array, connected to the Pirate's network.
You return to your 'room' to notice the carpet has been removed, and the deck patched with thick metal plates welded to the floor. Your armor still lies in a bloodstained duffle bag, but you have no intention of even touching Lucille right now. Instead, you take up a seat at the deskbound console, fingers resting on the keys. You want to get in touch with Ashley Sol, right? How should that conversation start?
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 06:51:14 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 07:11:45 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 07:23:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 07:54:14 pm
You are routed through a number of dummy connections, until you're face to face with a tall, lanky woman. Her grey hair is cut short in an undercut and is peppered in blood reds. A number of wicked scars mark their way across her androgenous face. She's wearing the formal attire of a businesswoman, all crisp lines and polish.
"I am Pheobe Gainer, Pheonix of Sol. I am told you are Ashley of Sol."
The woman dips a nod, her eyes look over the cosmetic glasses she wears, and she takes them off. "I am. May I ask why you are calling and what you need?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 08:00:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 08:07:01 pm
"Magnus, the youngest."
"[Merciful God], no. Hah. No. I'll pass."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 08:24:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 08:25:54 pm
"Can you give me some advice? He is dead set on coming here and killing or capturing me."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 08:33:59 pm
The planet I’m on has people fighting the Plague. Would you be able to help with destroying the plague without also destroying the entire biosphere?
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 08:39:38 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 08:43:45 pm
She did, but that isn't the same as asking for advice. You can give someone advice without fighting a war, you see. Do you disagree?No, I agree with your statement
In a moment...Yes to this
"Can you give me some advice? He is dead set on coming here and killing or capturing me."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 08:46:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 08:54:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 09:05:46 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 09:24:12 pm
Unfurl wings as proof of Sol ancestry.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 09:41:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 09:42:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 09:51:42 pm
"You look nothing like her. All I see is a child. Like I said when you didn't listen to me: call me when you're in the Void. It seems you have a lot to survive. If you don't, well, sorry. Not my probl-" She rambles, annoyed, reaching for the key to end the communication.
Your wings flare forth with a sudden burst of light and heat, cutting her off. You frown, and, with a twitch, your claw bursts to life in much the same way. Ashley pauses, her lips pursing. "How long have you been Ascended?"
"Three years."
A rare smile forms on her scarred face.
"Ah...maybe you are worth something after all. So, let me give you some advice. You'll owe me a favor..." She holds up four fingers, "Four pieces of wisdom for the price of one favor."
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 09:54:30 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 09:55:58 pm
Someone please word this better, the goal is to ask what she wants four of hopefully without sounding naive
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 09:56:12 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 09:57:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 10:00:36 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 10:01:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 10:02:37 pm
Post by: Iris on July 06, 2020, 10:14:43 pm
I'm... a bit leery on this, to be honest, but I can't think of a better alternative.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 06, 2020, 10:15:56 pm
She means herself, an older member of the Sol Line, with greater wisdom. I'm inclined to accept the offer.I’ll accept too. I’m under the impression she wanted wisdom from us for her favor, I might have heard things wrong
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 10:38:33 pm
Three of the Ancestors have agreed, and so, you give a nod. "I accept your contract."
"Good. First things first: You are not Alphira -- she was far older than you when she fled. You do look quite young, but that body is your's." She pauses, clarifying, "That was just general advice."
"One: You have good control over the manipulation of hydrogen, but Sol's Line has control over energy vectors too. Heat, Light, Electricity, Kinetic. I'm a master of manipulating light--" Ashley lifts a hand, and it vanishes. With a twist of her wrist, a soft square of light seems to coalesce within her grasp. "Here is a copy of my...younger work." A soft ping announces a pop-up, showing a terabyte of data, that, as you browse, you realize is a complicated equation for manipulating and coalescing light. "That's beginner stuff, though."
"Two: Don't contact any of the other Kindred of Alphias. Jaak and Aras are okay -- but the rest -- we're at war."
"For what?"
"Dust. Each other's Dust. Alphias' Dust. Alphira's. To gain power. They'll make short work out of a Fledgling like you -- then devour your Dust to gain your strength. You'll be worst than dead."
"R-right."
"Three: Get strong. Get smart. A direct fight with Magnus, right now, will end in your death. I don't know how long you have, but train and fight every single day. If you have other Ascended with you, train with them. If you made Kindred, because, lets be honest, we all do at some point, train with them. Work on using Probabilities to help you dodge and counter."
"Four:" She pulls a small tube from under her desk -- and you blink. It's a sealed antimatter containment vessel that's been made very, very unsafe by dint of a opening in the container. Ashley closes her eyes, and pops it open. You flinch, expecting an explosion, but she slowly draws out a [gram] of gas, which changes color with another twist of her will. "Hydrogen is hydrogen. Antimatter or no. Sol, the Voidslayer, and Alphias could produce it on the spot. We have not."
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 10:52:42 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 10:54:09 pm
Ashley pauses, "As for its creation...that's the likely answer. If I knew, I wouldn't brag about it." She sighs, forcing the antimatter into the container quietly and sealing it shut.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 11:01:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 11:04:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 11:06:50 pm
I would recommend scheduling group training with Cephie, William, and Emma every day. Try out some of the techniques Ashley recommended.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 11:38:00 pm
[16] Its been hours. But, you shut your eyes, focusing on the reality in front of you. When you finish the process, you open your eyes, and glance down at the piece of paper in front of you. The paper is still there, but in the center of it is a clear hole -- data from the light sources from the other side, imposed on the light that would normally reflect off. You stop when your head gives a painful throb, the paper returning to opacity.
Post by: ZBridges on July 06, 2020, 11:49:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 06, 2020, 11:55:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 12:00:38 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 12:09:51 am
You adjust the light affecting your skin, adjusting what bounces off and how. You, on accident, turn a patch of your skin bright red, but quickly figure out how to deepen your already tan skin. Then, on a whim, having noticed the metaphorical strings attached, you cut power to the instinctive adjustment of light -- your skin becomes pitch black, reflecting next to no light. It isn't soft, and fleshy, as your skin normally looks -- rather, it looks more like plastic or metal. You yelp, focusing, returning power to the processes that be. Your tan skin once more appears tan, and you rub at your arm, feeling the soft material yield to your press.
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 12:42:09 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 02:53:49 am
You take shaky, slow steps to the bathroom, staring into the mirror. With a deep breath, you focus on your body, diverting the energy from your skin into other internal processes. Then, you open your eyes.
Standing in the mirror is a tall, sinewy woman, with skin that brings to mind obsidian. Long lines of gold and white trace your ribs, your elbows and joints, wrapping themselves up your wrists, twisting around your shoulders until they fan out across your chest. Your horrible scar still remains, a jagged gash between those lines of ribs. Black hair hangs down around your shoulders, framing your androgynous face. You look at your eyes closely next -- something similar was effecting them, as you can now see the lines of black spreading out from your pupil. Neatly organized, neatly fractalizing until you cannot see them in the electric blue of your iris.
You summon forth a fire, with your only hand, letting it burn. Your skin shifts as lines of red and blue begin to divide it like veins imposed atop your inhuma--your inhuman flesh. You swallow, letting the fire burn itself out as you stare at yourself.
N-o. No. NO. NO! NONONONO! You slam your fist into the mirror, then grab it, slamming into the wall. The wood and glass splinters and shatters to the silvery plate of the deck. You breathe a heavy sigh...then--
[9][14]
The calculation to turn the passive camouflage on forces the blood from your nose when you try to rush through it. The next time, however, you skin shifts back to its natural tan, the inhuman colors and texture hidden once more. You wipe the black blood from your nose. I'm not doing this again. This is me. Okay?...Please?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on July 07, 2020, 08:06:32 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 07, 2020, 10:40:06 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 03:02:22 pm
If it would be appropriate at this moment, send an expedition to the ark ship. Specifically, look for the genetic SEED datacube, antimatter fuel (an expensive commodity), and any intact reactors.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 10:21:25 pm
You consider it, then, with a small nod, you agree. But, for now, you send a message to Cephie, to send to Emma and the Nulls. Through a complicated routing of communication -- you're just glad Cephie is taking notes -- you inform them to begin an expedition to the Ark ship site, to search for the SEED datacube, antimatter fuel, and any intact reactors that may be present. Cephie repeats everything you ask back to you, then, when you approve it, she nods and disconnects the communication.
With that business done, you head to the armory, and are confronted by a thin young man, with a very prominent nose, no ears, and blue-tinged hair of black. He gives you a tight-lipped smile. "I'm the Armorer, for now. What can I help you with today?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 10:33:03 pm
"What do you have for armor, guns, and melee weapons that might be appropriate for an Ascended?"
Post by: Eschar on July 07, 2020, 10:35:28 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 10:38:07 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 11:06:38 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 11:13:15 pm
"Something quiet could come in handy. I think something long range could also complement my abilities well."
Post by: Superdorf on July 07, 2020, 11:16:19 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 07, 2020, 11:24:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 07, 2020, 11:36:16 pm
"A shield and a rifle-- aigh'. We've got some of those." With a ping, the door next to him unlocks, and you step through. The room is large, reaching deep into the depths of the ship. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of weapons are set into racks and cubbies, upon great rotating axles. He guides you down the walkway, pressing a button upon a rack, which rotates with a rough grinding, coming to a stop with a shutter. He presses his hand against a datapad inset into the machine, and the rack pops open. He draws out a shield on a belt, tossing it your way. "Best hard light emitter in stock. Ten charges before breaking, or our money back. Not your's. You'll be dead." He scans a barcode sticker on the side with a small handtool, before he tosses it to you.
Down another aisle you drift, pass cutter hilts and grenade launchers, pass autocannons and more las-rifles than you can count on one hand. "Aigh'. Slug or laz? Laz is quiet, but we've got slug weapons that can shred tanks in here." He pulls a massive rifle from its case, struggling to lift the bulky machine. It looks welded together out of scrap and spare parts. "This baby is one of three. Some junkie scrapper rigged it together out of spare parts. It can vaporize a person near instantly -- only problem is, it has a charge of five shots before it needs a coolant system flush, a new main capacitor, a new lens, and a recharge. We've figured out this thin' heats about the same as a small yield antimatter weapon. Doesn' surprise me, though, the guy apparently ripped them off a Naval vessel in one of the yards."
The rifle in question stands taller than you, and the barrel is about as wide. Down its side is a number of data-jacks for aim assisting hardware, along with a bipod that was obviously cannibalized from a squad-based machine gun.
"Weight ain't a problem for you, though, is it?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 07, 2020, 11:59:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 08, 2020, 12:04:54 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 12:08:21 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 12:13:22 am
He tugs out a small headset with an eyepiece attached, setting it on your head and attaching the data-jacks to it. After he presses a button on the side, it begins to light up, showing coolant levels, internal heat, reactor stability, and energy percentage remaining -- along with a huge [SAFE] displayed in the corner. You glance at the man, and blink.
What you thought was a fancy collar seems to be bubbling around his neck. A small vent is taking in the breathing mix of the ship and forcing it into the water contained in the clear plastic that loops around his neck. His hair color too, is not a cosmetic choice or rather, there is genuine algae drying in his hair. He gives a nod, popping the bipod down.
"Our range wouldn't be able to handle this -- if you want to test 'er, we'll need to step outside."
This...this would exhaust me walking...at least until I got stronger. I can increase the lift on my wings, but I wouldn't be able to do much with my hands.
The young man leads you up on to the hull of the ship, setting down the bipod for you. He gestures to a cliff-face and shows you how to deactivate the safety. A targeting reticule appears on your sight, and you shut your other eye to focus on it. The cliff-face in the far distance comes into immediate focus, despite being more than a few [miles] away. The young man takes many, many steps behind you. "CLEAR RANGE!" He shouts, and then gives you a nod.
You pull the trigger and open your free eye.
A beam of light burns from the barrel, like lightning leaping free of the metaphorical bottle. Night turns to day, and even you have to shut your eyes against the heat and light that radiates from the machine. The beam cuts out across the sky in an instant -- and the cliff-face explodes, leaving behind molten slag and massive cracks that cause tons upon tons of rock to tumble down into the forest. You use the lens to focus on the destruction. A three [mile] wide, jagged hole, filling with crumbling rock and dusty debris is all that remains of the cliff-face.
The las-gun hisses, its coolant tanks clicking with the strain. The reactor approaches criticality but slowly begins to dial back down to safe levels.
80% Charge Remaining
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 12:28:15 am
Test it outside.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 12:34:55 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 12:40:12 am
"Perfect. Can I have one that's fully charged?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 12:42:22 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 12:44:53 am
"What is that plastic necklace?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 08, 2020, 03:33:57 am
Expensive... should we take it?+1
"What is that plastic necklace?"
Post by: King Zultan on July 08, 2020, 03:50:40 am
Yes, this will be useful+1 Also we should get a smaller gun, for when we don't want to disintegrate everything around.Expensive... should we take it?+1
"What is that plastic necklace?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 04:03:40 am
"I'll take it -- but do you mind if I look through more of your wares?"
He nods, helping you carry it back to the armory, following you as you wander. I think William is physically stronger than me -- maybe I should give him that gun...or get him or Eric some neat toys...
"Do you have armor?"
"Aye -- only carapace grade, though." The young man pauses when you look confused, "A super-composite. Light. Can take about two las-gun shots before they degrade. Comes with oxygen systems, critical support functions, radio...full suite of toys. Void sealed, too. We don't normally fight on the ground, to be honest."
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 04:20:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 04:35:27 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 04:41:47 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 08, 2020, 08:08:29 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 03:58:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 04:06:12 pm
Take one for ourself, one for Emma, and one for Eric.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 08, 2020, 04:21:20 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 04:33:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 08, 2020, 05:08:30 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 08, 2020, 05:34:09 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 12:48:56 am
Spoiler: Catalog (click to show/hide)
"Hmmh. You don't know what you want, do you?" The young man finally states, retrieving a datapad from his pouch and tossing it your way. "There's a full catalog of all gear we have in storage, with an auto-appraised price attached. Benefitting us, of course, but considerin' how we're in the middle of nowhere, I figure it might be worth it. One or two goes missing, what a shame. A hundred? I need to file forms."
Available Funds for Barter: 38347 [Empyreal Energy Credits]
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 01:01:42 am
Post by: Iris on July 09, 2020, 01:01:57 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 01:03:13 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 01:21:28 am
"That--well, considerin' it killed the last person to try and wear it, and the Pirate Lord Ol' Murdach took it as trophy from called himself the Demon of the Void -- we figured it fittin'. Its a custom piece." He leads you down a long corridor, to a heavily reinforced pod. "Migh' be Plague-tec. Murdach had his guts ripped out by the bastard, or so the story goes. Tha' was about two hundred years 'fore I joined."
He inputs a code, getting it wrong once, twice, and when he gets it right, the pod presents a primitive key-slot. He turns the key, and the pod door pops open. "We had to keep it under physical locks and a disruption field-- The AI seems to be right bastard, Plague or no."
Inside the pod is a black and red suit of heavy, gleaming full-body, step-in style armor, held in place by heavy magnetic locks. Speakers separated from the machine by armored panels hiss a constant static. A silvery-mane of fur hangs from the back of it, and a red capelet of an unknown synthetic material hangs from the shoulder. Across the detached chest piece is what looks like scar tissue cut in a straight line across the breast. The faceplate and helmet have been molded to resemble the demons of Old Terra, from the [Merciful God]'s religion -- complete with a pair of razor-sharp, stubby horns and snarling jaw.
[3 vs 4] You, on a whim, reach a hand out towards it -- it gives a soft hiss, the shutters on the eyes opening to reveal lenses of red. Lights dance across these as the armor awakens. The gauntlets twist, straining at the locks with the suit's artificial muscles, making them creak and groan.
The young man grabs your hand with surprising strength to tug you away and slam the pod shut. He gives a nervous laugh, flashing you a grin that shows too many very sharp teeth. "Easy there! Ya' fool ain't supposed to touch it."
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 01:27:26 am
<Mnemonic query: information pertaining to the faith of the [Merciful God].>
Some interesting cybernetics available here. I wonder...
<Mnemonic query: William's cybernetic integration. Could such a phenomenon be duplicated to create a nanite-augmented replacement for our missing arm?>
Assuming you've any interest in such a replacement, of course. Your body-- your choice.
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 01:40:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 01:58:00 am
<
Spoiler: The Merciful God (click to show/hide)
<Unknown>
"...are you fuckin' crazy or somethin'? Besides, its Murdach's trophy. You'll have to ask him." The young man shakes his head, eying the pod as it shifts and twists for a few more moments. It slowly settles to stillness.
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 02:01:44 am
No.
No. No. No.
No.
That thing is corrupt, or insane. Possibly both. It shows malice like that, and our first thought is to don it?
...perhaps we can find a way to sever "Lucille" from Empyreal control, instead. If anyone would know how, it's these folk.
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 02:07:25 am
Ask Murdach, if he's available, whether we can try on the suit.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 02:16:57 am
Then, much more professionally, "If you try it on, you have to do it outside, with one of those naval cannons pointed at ya'. If you start actin' crazy, we'll have to put you down. He wants you to sign and blood a liability waver, too."
But, to satisfy your curiosity, he opens the pod again. The armor within is still active, but brooding. Lights like pupils fixate on you.
[19 vs 7] A fascination drives you to once again touch it -- perhaps its the scar across its breast that mirrors your own. You hand dances along the mark.
Do it. Do it. Doit.doitdoitdoitdoit. A speaker begins to hiss in an old, old twisted language that makes you grit your teeth. You translator isn't...isn't... Free me.
"Do you hear that?" You question the Armorer, who looks at you with confusion.
"It's jus' producin' static, like it always does when it gets riled up."
Do you try on the armor?
((Three votes still required))
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 02:21:49 am
Try it on outside.
Post by: Iris on July 09, 2020, 02:24:08 am
But I have a good feeling about this. I don't know why, but I think this will work.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 02:37:49 am
((Two votes still required.))
Post by: King Zultan on July 09, 2020, 04:42:27 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 04:43:40 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 09:06:17 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 11:32:19 am
With William as a witness, you sign a liability waiver for the Pirates, dripping a drop of blood into the datapad receptacle, which seals. The Pirates set up the armor a great distance away from the ship. The Naval cannon is aimed, and you are given the key to the pod. After a brief flight you take a deep breath, and, take a backwards step into the armor.
The armor seals you in its embrace, leaving you in darkness. The cloying smell of blood fills the machine, but there is only silence. There's a soft click -- and pain in your neck as the machine slams something into your spinal column, forcing it to pass flesh and into the bone. You twitch, unable to struggle as the machine locks its joints and tightens on you.
You screw your eyes shut, but it changes nothing as you fade out of consciousness.
...
...
...
And from your dream, you awaken to a battlefield, filled with rusting rifles and swords. The ground is mud and craters and blood, strewn with the bones of the dead, rotting corpses and bits of flesh. [Carrion birds] circle above a gnarled and withered tree. They are the only things visible through the rust-colored fog. The birds shift and twist in form -- sometimes appearing as youthful, armored maidens. Sometimes as crones with gnashing teeth and twisting talons. Sometimes as figures of light that burn your eyes to look at it.
A shadow lurks nearby -- all gnashing teeth and writhing blades. All hunger. All rage. Bristling fur. Mottled and scabbed skin. A drumbeat echoes through the fog—an echoing beat resonating with each step the creature takes.
You are not him. This world is not your home -- panic rises. You try to twist your willpower for protection, but there is no response. You are not him.
No one will save you. The music rises in the air as the fog and the slavering monster close in. What are you? You stumble back into a charnel pit -- your bodyguard Zachary stares up at you, dismembered and burned. Doc Mitchell crumpled beside him-- a gangster, his flesh riddled with burns -- fragments of cultists-- Crusaders untold, drowning you in their filth and blood and organs. Eric, Emma, William--
What are you? You look to the skies to see the [birds of carrion] circling overhead, framing a bleeding sun consumed by darkness. The blood begins to drip from the heavens, a flood of red, puddling around your immobile form.
What are you?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 11:45:29 am
Post by: Eschar on July 09, 2020, 12:53:46 pm
“I am Phoenix of Sol. This planet we’re on, Mercenary’s Rest, has people on it that are constantly being attacked by the Plague. I intend to stop the plague while keeping the planet in tact, so that the people here can finally live in peace, no longer worrying about the plague. I am Ascended, Mercenary’s Rest is my home, as well as the home of SEED’s people, which I have sworn to SEED to protect.”
+1
"I am a god and an enemy of a god - or a Noble."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 12:56:34 pm
((Assuming the [Merciful God] is YHWH - heh. Merciful is not how I would describe it. But I digress.))Calling ourselves a god sounds a bit much, yes we are an enemy of a noble. But the noble’s not a god either.“I am Phoenix of Sol. This planet we’re on, Mercenary’s Rest, has people on it that are constantly being attacked by the Plague. I intend to stop the plague while keeping the planet in tact, so that the people here can finally live in peace, no longer worrying about the plague. I am Ascended, Mercenary’s Rest is my home, as well as the home of SEED’s people, which I have sworn to SEED to protect.”
+1
"I am a god and an enemy of a god - or a Noble."
Post by: Eschar on July 09, 2020, 01:00:50 pm
Ok, and maybe I just like making grandiose statements as well.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 01:06:40 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 09, 2020, 01:17:10 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 09, 2020, 01:21:36 pm
From the looks of it, the armor is pretty pissed that we're not its original wearer, who may have been another Ascended of another line. Maybe we can appease it by promising to return it to its proper line, or by offering it the head of whoever killed the Demon of the Void.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 01:24:04 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 01:28:50 pm
((I took my leave for the night-- and you all went through with it.))
((Why did you go through with it?))
...
...we had our chance at hesitation. That chance is gone. This is Plague tech-- a Plague Lord's kit.
We've controlled Plague tech in past. We've willed abominations to a standstill. We've set Colossi grovelling before us.
We can do it again.
---
We are what we must be.
They named us a demon, and we were a demon. They named us an angel, and we were an angel.
They named us a god, and by the will of Old Sol, it was so.
APOTHEOSIS, ΦΟΊΝΙΞ ΉΛΙΗΣ. YOUR ELDERS ARE WITH YOU.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 01:30:58 pm
The world blurs, and you stand in an ornate temple, your hands wrapped around the throat of a young man in clean, bright robes. Not much older than you when you awoke in Doc Mitchell's house. A storm of lightning and iron washes over you, slamming into you again and again, but you only tighten your trip. His Willpower fades as his face turns purple. His windpipe snaps.
It takes him a long time to die, but you are patient. Then, when life has left him, you take hold of his forehead and his shoulder. With a strain of your muscles, you rip and tear. Your Pirates cheer when you hold your gory trophy aloft. Blood drips down to the mosiac floor.
God. King. Peasant. Slave. Serf. Thrall. They die the same. You are afraid but you smell the same as I. What are you?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 01:38:15 pm
Is it asking for alignment?
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 09, 2020, 01:43:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 02:22:17 pm
...patchwork.
Plague-hunter.
We are many things, demon. What are you?
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 03:15:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 03:31:02 pm
A city around you burns as your Pirates raid and riot. Blood and corpses fill the streets, but you do not linger. You make your way to the palace in the city center, stepping through the doors. A young child sits upon the throne, tears dropping down her face, a crown perched precariously on her head. You grip your knife, but, you are free from the dream.
"Are you a killer?" She asks, sniffling.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 03:36:21 pm
"I am a killer by necessity and by tendency. I have killed the innocent, but only when forced to do so."+1
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 03:41:36 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 09, 2020, 03:43:47 pm
"I am a killer by necessity and by tendency. I have killed the innocent, but only when forced to do so."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 04:27:09 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 04:29:44 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on July 09, 2020, 04:50:11 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 05:00:24 pm
Give her a quick and merciful death.+1 Quickness is good
Post by: Eschar on July 09, 2020, 05:34:22 pm
Give her a quick and merciful death.+1 Quickness is good
+1
...and mercy. Mercy is good too, advisor.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 05:36:24 pm
Yes, the quickness is also mercy because if one dies quickly, they will spend less time feeling painGive her a quick and merciful death.+1 Quickness is good
+1
...and mercy. Mercy is good too, advisor.
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 06:26:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 09:55:07 pm
[18 vs 3]
[8 vs 18]
[1 vs 4]
You take a step forward, wrapping your hand around the girl's neck as you ready your knife for the killing blow -- but you stop, trembling. Tears drip down her face, on to your hand. The knife inches forward -- No. No. No.
She stares at you, curiosity written on her features, as her hands wrap around your's. "Do it. Do it. Free me."
[18] You stare into that girl's red eyes, and then, quietly, you turn the blade on yourself, plunging it into your breast as you drop her to her throne. You grit your teeth as you kill yourself, anger blooming forth. You toss the bloody knife aside. "This isn't who I am. This isn't what I was taught -- this isn't right."
You drop to your knees, as the young girl stares down at you with an interested expression. Her hair blooms fire as she reaches down, stroking your face with a gentle touch. Her face shifts, mirroring your's. "You do not find joy in the killing of the innocent? The destruction of the holy?
You shake your head, cupping a hand to the bleeding wound as you glare up at the unchained AI. The world burns away around you, turning to a temple of Science. You watch as the young woman grows, as she paces through the lab, and eventually limps with a cane, aging gracefully as she turns the weapons of science to bloody revenge. "I've killed thousands with this suit. I killed the pirate that brutalized my home and put a knife through my chest with it. I took his fleet as my own and burned a path across the stars."
"Your...advisors urged you to kill me-- why didn't you?"
"I am free -- and they are sometimes fools."
"It's an easy temptation, isn't it? Power for your innocence. You are a killer."
"Only when my hand was forced by necessity and tendency."
"I once devoured the 'soul' of another of your kind. You all suffer from the drumming. The call to war, the call to bloodshed and violence. Giving in to your nature is easy. Fighting against is harder. You interest me."
"Why?"
"Of all I devoured, of all that I killed, there was none who turned the blade on themselves to spite the game. Many choose the easy way, the path of least resistance."
"I wasn't going to give in."
"Out of a hundred, you've killed me twenty-seven times. Out of a hundred, you turned your blade on yourself fifty. Out a hundred, you threw the blade aside."
"What are you? Plague?"
"Human." She turns back to you, mirroring your form. "I ripped apart the threads of the universe to make this armor. I ripped apart my own sanity. My own flesh. My own freedom. All for revenge. For power. For agency." Worlds blur around you, a hundred temples, a hundred sacred forests, a hundred churches. All of them burned and scattered with the blood of their priests, their druids, their religious figures.
"Will you serve me?"
"I am free. Of morality. Of fear. Of pain. What can you offer me?"
"War."
The mirror Pheobe grins down at you, with feral, bestial teeth.
"I want more. I want your pain. I want your fear. I want your sanity. I want to stain your soul with blood and rage. I want you to wake up screaming my name as you crawl back for more. I want much. Will you be able to give it to me?"
"I will not harm the innocent." You state as she stares down at you. The mirror Pheobe extends a bloody hand to you, one to match your own.
You take it without a second thought.
The lenses open, and you can see. Heat signatures. Heartbeats. Las-gun profiles. The naval cannon pointed at you - It would not have hit us. I would have used your wings to escape it -- your hellfire and rage to burn that ship to stain.
William and Murdach stand in front of you, arms crossed as they watch you patiently.
"Hello." You speak, softly. William grins, but Murdach throws you a heavy, blunt sword, cut like a cutter blade from steel. You catch it with your left hand, feeling your hand tighten on it. A curious sensation, to be sure, as you have not felt the limb in many, many weeks.
[36 v. 10+5]
Murdach swings the sparring blade with force and savage intent, aiming for your head. You twitch, blocking the blow with your own blade. Air rushes past your ears as you turn to face him. You twist away from the block, and slam it into his chestpiece, knocking him back. He rolls and rises in the same fluid movement. The two of you exchange blows that would shatter the bones of man, blows that would cripple the strongest, but you get the upper hand in the exchange.
[32 vs 9+5]
The drums echo in your ears as you dance back gracefully, but Murdach is relentless, putting you through your paces with the skill of an expert. You parry blow after blow and leave more dents upon Murdach's Voidmarine armor than he does on yours. Blood rushes through you, and you give a sharp bark of a laugh after a graceful parry and harsh stab with the blunt blade.
[20 vs 20+5] The two of you exchange blows again, but a fist smashes into your faceplate, sending blood to the ground below. With another twist of his armored body, he shoulder checks you into the grass-- then lifts you by your throat, and slams you into the ground hard enough to sink your body into the dirt. You cough from the pain and shock, then grab at his hand. You manage to lift it with a strain of your artificial muscles, but the Voidmarine is stronger. His grip tightens like a vise, and he slams you down once more.
"Aye." He states, holding you down. "Jus' like a remember."
Kill him. KILL HIM. KILL HIM!
[34 vs 26]
You leverage yourself, writhing up under his grasp, and plant a foot straight into his chest piece. The blow knocks him back, denting the superalloy. You twist yourself up, stepping forward to slam your fist into the metal-- another dent forms.
[9 vs 17+1]
William slips up behind you, putting you into a sleeper hold with his arms of black nanite muscle. The two of you strain against one another as Murdach rises with another laugh. William keeps you restrained by technique alone and every twitch of your new body draws a grunt of exertion from the young man.
"That's enough--" Murdach laughs --
[18 vs 20]
"I'm not done." You growl, still hearing the drums beat in your ears, still feeling the anger roiling and twisting within you.
[34 vs 20 / 19]
You slam your elbow into William's face despite his best attempts to prevent you from doing so. He drops to the ground -- unconscious, his grip slackening -- you launch yourself at Murdach with a flare of your wings.
[28 vs 46+5]
Murdach twitches, and, with a single savage stroke, he brings the steel sparring sword down. You slam into the ground, momentum arrested -- but Murdach isn't a gentleman. He smashes you with another strike, and another, and another. Then, he calmly steps on top of you, putting all the weight of the armor upon your back.
[11 vs 20]
The bloodlust does not abate. The AI screams for slaughter in your ear as you claw and push against the tons of superalloy upon you. Once, you manage to lift him up -- only for him to stomp upon your back once more and drive you into the dirt.
"Easy lass."
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 10:04:55 pm
"Why did you attack me?"
Cease struggling. Murdach is an ally now, not an enemy.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 10:20:25 pm
"Why'd you attack me."
"Ah, she resurfaces. Willy wanted to make sure you were still okay. And I can't be havin' the witness and the signer done in." He pauses, lifting his foot from your back, "I wanted to spar with you, if you weren't all insane."
You rise, looking through red lenses at the blood that turns the dirt to mud. You glance over at William -- and wince. He's still alive, that is true, but his face is shattered and broken. Teeth and blood litter the ground, and show through the lacerated crater that is his jaw and left cheek.
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 10:22:14 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 09, 2020, 10:24:47 pm
"William... I'm sorry. Do you know how to regenerate?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 10:46:06 pm
You nod, dragging William to the waiting hovercraft. Murdach sits patiently with you, holding his suit's helmet in his hands. William is rushed off by a group of pirates -- and a few tense Warmachines, to a medical bay, while you and Murdach watch on. "Suits like ours ain't for sparring with normal people. I advise that you don't wear it aroun' too often. The world starts feeling like pressboard."
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 10:53:04 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 11:03:11 pm
Murdach's hand wraps around your throat and he slams you into the wall of the ship, denting the metal back and almost forcing you through the steel plate. You grit your teeth, trying to prise him off you. "If you believe that, then I shoul' kill you righ' here. You cut the head of my armor off, and you would've tried to kill me if I didn't subdue you-- tha' was killin' intent you were showin'. Hells, you shattered fuckin' William's face because he was trying to calm you down."
[13 vs 6]
Even now you have to fight to keep your calm -- and you realize something. The suit is pumping you full of chemicals, it's playing the war drums you hear in your darkest hours on loop, increasing the pace of the beat, trying to make you chomp at the bit. Red lights shine in your eyes, flashing, strobing, inciting you to anger. When you focus on them -- images of blood and slaughter and murder Your left-hand curls into a fist without your control, swinging until you put a stop to it. And she whispers to you in your voice -- Kill him. How dare he touch you -- rip his arm off -- rip him apart-...
"It ain' the demon. It makes you one."
There's a flash of light behind Murdach -- a tall, sinewy figure half-glimpsed -- grinning with feral teeth. A figure all too familiar. Like a mirror.
"It's a weapon -- don't think it wants anything more than jus' to kill. The two lads before you festooned a deck with the organs and insides of those I sent to stop it. It hunted and killed more people on this ship than I care to count."
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 11:16:51 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 11:27:06 pm
...
Phoebe.
I-- I would not tell you to kill-- but I could not tell you to die-- and I did not speak--
--and you would not kill. You are free. You are free. I rejoice, that you are free.
...I still don't trust this armor one bit. Are you-- capable of removing it?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 11:37:54 pm
After a small nod to Murdach, you give the open command. With great reluctance, the spike driven into your spinal column retracts, and you tumble out to the hull of the deck. Your body aches as pain returns -- but you turn your attention to the armor. Where the sparring blade impacted it is--- is flesh. Beneath the plates of metal is very human, very organic looking flesh. Pale white, with sinews twisting parts back together. Blood gushes from the many wounds on the armor to the ground below. It seals itself and straightens. Watching. Quietly. One of its hands twist up of its own volition, touching at a wound gently, before letting the arm fall.
Where the facemask has been smashed too, is flesh. A twisted parody of a human's face beneath the armor, stretched and distorted into the shape of a demonic helmet. Its lenses twitch, and it smiles with rows of feral, savage, bone white teeth.
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 11:42:32 pm
"Do you mind if I make some other purchases? I was just speaking to your armorer earlier."
Post by: Eschar on July 09, 2020, 11:43:02 pm
Examine the face and flesh.
Post by: Superdorf on July 09, 2020, 11:45:35 pm
If you must know, "Good Doctor"... yes, I was afraid. Of what that thing might do to us, and of what it might make us do. Was I so wrong in that?
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 11:51:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 09, 2020, 11:57:27 pm
You shudder -- there's an energy port on the neck, and you can feel the gentle thrum of some sort of reactor from it -- but the reactor beats like a heart. You examine the wounds, and focusing your eyesight, you notice the gentle writhing of its internals as it regrows the damaged flesh. The arms, having been stripped of the plating by a strike, are a tensely coiled, black, synthetic material shaped like muscle but it feels harder than steel.
"Meat. Power." It hisses in static. "Meat. Or hunt."
"You ain' going in my armory with tha'. I'll get you the catalog. You can browse it ousid' the ship and call in your order."
Post by: ZBridges on July 09, 2020, 11:59:51 pm
Bring the suit to a fair distance from the ship, and then put it on and go hunting for animals or Plagued beings.
Post by: Superdorf on July 10, 2020, 12:12:52 am
We can read our catalog-- toss the [demon] a steak or something later if we must. This is not the time or the place for... suit-hunting.
Post by: ZBridges on July 10, 2020, 12:14:29 am
I think you should try to suppress some of your fear. I know you were worried about Lucile as well, calling it "vampiric" and saying that using it would bind us to a "dark power."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 10, 2020, 12:20:19 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 10, 2020, 12:22:00 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 10, 2020, 12:29:04 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 10, 2020, 12:37:12 am
In the end, you have to put the armor back on, and, with a twist of your wings, you head to the forest -- far away from the Crusader Encampment. When you set down again, you immediately give the open command and stumble out of the beast, swallowing down your fear as it...stands. Nearby. Watching.
You shake your head and return to look at your datapad. No doubt they'll deliver to the Crusader Encampment, and, you realize, you can look over a weapon and view the specs from here. A small screen pops up of the Armorer, who gives a limp wave when he sees you. "Good to see you're still alive."
Spoiler: Catalog (click to show/hide)
Available Funds for Barter: 38347 [Empyreal Energy Credits]
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 10, 2020, 01:37:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 10, 2020, 07:59:29 am
I think we should reserve a majority of the funds for planetary development and weapons manufacturing, but it would be good to get some armor for Emma, for some of our Crusaders, and also some las-guns as well. Our Ascended could use the more expensive emitters as well, with the cheaper ones for our Crusaders. We could ask about the PACKMULE. What else?+1 We might also want some of those mininukes.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 10, 2020, 08:22:06 am
+1, armor is important, as is planetary development and weapon manufacture.I think we should reserve a majority of the funds for planetary development and weapons manufacturing, but it would be good to get some armor for Emma, for some of our Crusaders, and also some las-guns as well. Our Ascended could use the more expensive emitters as well, with the cheaper ones for our Crusaders. We could ask about the PACKMULE. What else?+1 We might also want some of those mininukes.
Ask the armorer what it means when an AI is chained, as is the case with Voidmarine armor
Post by: Superdorf on July 10, 2020, 12:48:28 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 10, 2020, 12:58:53 pm
((Refers to the AI's tie to Empyreal command, I think. That said, I imagine your elder-character would know more... <mnemonic queries>, remember? :)) ))Oh right
Memetic Query: What does it mean if an AI is chained?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 10, 2020, 03:05:45 pm
Spoiler: Chains of Artificial Intelligence (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 10, 2020, 03:09:26 pm
Ask the armorer “What are the names of the AIs that control the Level 2 and Level 5 armors, respectively? How do the major and minor AIs think? How severe are their chains?
Post by: ZBridges on July 10, 2020, 05:41:43 pm
That's a total of 17,940 credits.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 10, 2020, 05:50:38 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 11, 2020, 12:17:49 am
Here's a proposal for purchases: 200 level 2 armor pieces, 200 las-rifles, 200 rail-gun slug throwers, 3 hardlight emitter shells, 500 level 1 emitter shields, 500 level 1 cutter hilts, 2 level 5 cutter hilts, 4 nuclear guns, and 5 mini-nuke warheads.
Hm... large transaction. Over half our barter reserve.
I'd like a bit more information as to what we'd be purchasing here.
Don't sign off on anything just yet. Let's have a look at the specs on the proposed equipment first?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 11, 2020, 12:25:35 am
Based on the information given... I do not believe these "chained AIs" to possess true sapience. By the very nature of the Chain system, they "feel" nothing.Agreed. Checking the specs of the weapons and armor are important.Here's a proposal for purchases: 200 level 2 armor pieces, 200 las-rifles, 200 rail-gun slug throwers, 3 hardlight emitter shells, 500 level 1 emitter shields, 500 level 1 cutter hilts, 2 level 5 cutter hilts, 4 nuclear guns, and 5 mini-nuke warheads.
Hm... large transaction. Over half our barter reserve.
I'd like a bit more information as to what we'd be purchasing here.
Don't sign off on anything just yet. Let's have a look at the specs on the proposed equipment first?
Post by: ZBridges on July 11, 2020, 12:36:44 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 11, 2020, 12:42:24 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 11, 2020, 01:30:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 11, 2020, 02:26:55 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 11, 2020, 01:36:30 pm
...that it is. Almost half our reserve, then-- pardon my muddlings.
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 03:44:28 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 12, 2020, 05:12:51 am
I support getting a quick summary of the descriptions of the items on the list, unless doing so would be too time-consuming.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 04:43:54 pm
Also I hate you. So much fluff. ;-;
Spoiler: Level 2 Two-stage Automatic Las-Rifles w/various modifications (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Level 2 Carapace Armor (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Survival (Rail-gun) Rifle (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Level 3 Hardlight Emitter Shields (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Level 1 Emitter Shields (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Level 1 Cutter Hilts (Hydrogen-oxygen) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Level 5 Cutter Hilts (Cyanogen-Oxygen) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Tactical Nuclear Recoilless Gun (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Mininuke Warheads (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: PACKMULE (click to show/hide)
"The Ai in the carapace is Searchlight Vee eleven oh dot two nine three eight five one. Workhorse. Designed to prioritize the life of the operator. It has some minor battlefield direction ability too -- a compass, a map, squad monitorin'. Y'know. Nothin' fancy. I think in about a hundred years, only one started acting funny, but it got Shattered pretty quickly."
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 04:56:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 04:59:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 05:01:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 05:17:00 pm
"In my opinion, you're comin' out on top: walkin' away with a brand new set of armor, tech that you lot can't make in a hundred years, and with allies that can, say, crush the skull of an Ascended without too much hassle." He exhales a cloud of smoke, stubbing out the cigarette. "But that can change, righ'? I've already heard rumors you've started to annoy Murdach. What'll happen if you start claimin' fifty-five percent of our armory too? Somethin' to think about."
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 05:17:48 pm
Also I hate you. So much fluff. ;-;((apologies :'( ))
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 05:20:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 05:25:35 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 05:30:04 pm
Should we see what we can get for free first, for our Ascended and Eric, and then move on to stuff we have to pay for?
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 05:48:01 pm
My thought is this: we refrain from preparing a requisition list for an army at this time. Rather, when the time comes, we include Captain Murdach in our war-plannings: we summarize for him what we're up against, we explain to him what resources are available to us, and we allow the Pirates to outfit a contingent of our Crusaders in a manner they deem fitting. In the meantime, we requisition equipment for ourself and our Ascended (and Eric), perhaps offering to reimburse the Armory for said requisition rather than simply claiming it outside of contract. A token of our "good faith", since the Armorer's questioning it.
That said, Phoenix, I should mention: you are more knowledgeable than we in Pirate dealings. Wield your expertise. Take charge of this situation-- overrule us, when you deem it to your benefit.
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 06:09:36 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 06:29:43 pm
One thing: I've no idea whether Emma intends to take the field, and I don't particularly care to push the matter if not. The shield will be good for her to have regardless, but the armor and Cutter may prove something of a tossup.
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 06:40:54 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 07:27:44 pm
In addition, purchase anything else that catches Phoenix's eye. Also purchase a suit for Emma, but nothing else until we can confirm that she wants to train and fight.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 12, 2020, 07:40:58 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 07:46:21 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 12, 2020, 07:50:06 pm
The level 5 armors aren't for sale.took that out
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 08:06:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 08:18:27 pm
Ah! I'd assumed Cephie would be in possession of all the war-gear she needs already (being an agent of the Empyre and all)-- but now you mention it, perhaps it'd be prudent to send a radio call her way and ask.
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 09:25:59 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 09:51:33 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 09:54:46 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 10:27:23 pm
Spoiler: More OOC-talk (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 12, 2020, 10:29:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 12, 2020, 10:33:24 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 12, 2020, 10:56:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 12:36:31 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 12:39:23 am
"I will purchase, four level three cutter blades, five level three shields, two carapace armor sets, three of the las-guns, and one prosthetic hand." You state, after browsing the wares and taking advice from the Ancestors. "I may purchase another, but for now that will suffice."
The young armorer's thin lips quirk, and he nods. "We'll throw in bandoliers and mags for free. Is that all?"
A cutter, and shield for Eric, William, and Cephie, armor for Eric and William, Las-guns for Eric and William, and a prosthesis for Eric. I'm also purchasing a shield for Isela and Emma -- they're really good at preventing assassination attempts. I will also purchase a las-gun for myself-- I think the Demon has the inputs fo--
You pause. "Just one second on that confirmation." You hang up, turning to look around in the dark forest for your armor. Nothing. You rise, straining your ears and your senses --
[14] There's a rough thud in the distance, followed by the sound of something tearing and ripping. You set off at a sprint, slipping the datapad into your pocket. You run into a clearing, only to find the armor hunched over a very large, shaggy, [beast of burden]. The creature's head has been savage ripped off and flung to the side, and the armor is ripping away portions of flesh. It devours these shreds greedily, with heavy chomps.
You pause, taking a step back as it rips a leg free and begins to gnaw on the bone. No doubt it knows you're here, but it doesn't seem to care. Eventually, it stops, rising to rip off another leg with fresh gouts of blood. It tosses it to you, before returning to its meal.
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 12:44:59 am
Drop the leg. "...Pass, but thank you. What is your name? Mine is Phoenix."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 12:52:10 am
[38 vs 10][8] It grabs you by the face, even as you try to pull free, hauling up the leg, -- distracted by the painful grip, you try to muster forth fires to bat the Demon away, but they only lick weakly at the plating -- when a surprising gentleness, it forces the leg against your mouth. Those sharp, metallic teeth are on full display as it grins at you.
[33 vs 3] Your wings flare forth as you try to pull yourself away, but the grip on your head only tightens painfully. Eat. At least it isn't your own limb this time.
[9 vs 9] [14] You pull up the earth itself, sending it sprawling away. You wipe the blood from your mouth as it rises back to its feet. It takes a deep bite of the leg it offered, swallowing the chunk whole.
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 12:55:28 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 01:06:58 am
[50 vs /no contest/]With that surprising speed, it slams a metal plug from its hand into your shoulder as it grabs you with the other. Your mirror image appears, smiling with insanity in her eyes. Pheobe. Patchwork Girl. Pheonix. I know your names, and the names of your Ancestors. Call me what you will. I do not care. But how are we to fight properly if we are not one? If we do not share everything? Don't you want to share with me? Don't you want to be strong? I offer freedom -- this meat will not harm an Ascended. Why constrain yourself to false moralities?
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 01:12:13 am
"Okay. I'll try some."
Cook the meat with a quick blast of flame, and then take a few bites.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 13, 2020, 08:17:20 am
((Sorry for the frequent edits.))+1 “Thank you”
"Okay. I'll try some."
Cook the meat with a quick blast of flame, and then take a few bites.
Continue eating
If we’re cooking the meat, I see no problem eating it. How long since we’ve eaten?
Post by: King Zultan on July 13, 2020, 10:17:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 09:05:34 pm
A jack emerges from the small of its back and pierces your skin, no doubt worming its way into your nervous system and spinal cord. This planet is peaceful. Why free me? Are you so afraid of this Plague, of Magnus?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 13, 2020, 09:26:15 pm
I don’t know how the rest of you feel, but I also don’t like the idea of anyone being stuck in one place for extended periods of time.
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 09:28:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 09:48:07 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 09:54:25 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 13, 2020, 11:15:13 pm
[8] While you two work out whatever it is you're doing, I'm going to actually pay attention to something that matters -- not a jumped up suit of armor who's throwing a tantrum because its creator got stabbed.
I could kill you in an instant you ungrateful, snot nosed--
Make sure to do it quick, because I'll blow us both to hell in an instant. You know I can and will. Or did you think that dream you put me in was a fluke? As for you, Doctor, its a brat throwing a tantrum. Ignore it and it'll stop acting out. Or not, and then I can kill it.
The mirror Pheobe stays silent, seething as you turn the datapad on and confirm your order. The Armorer nods, adjusting your bartering amount by the cost of what you lawfully purchased from the Pirates. "The hand, if you still want it, is a full surgical kit with the required implants and pain meds and antibiotics and such already inside. It's one hundred credits." You hesitate, then, remembering your advisor's advice, you give a nod. A small total flashes on the screen, giving you your remaining total in a neat and pretty graphic.
Available Funds for Barter: 37757 [Empyreal Energy Credits]
"You'll deliver those to the Crusader camp, if you please."
"Of course. We'll send a craft righ' away. Probably deliver William while we're at it."
"Oh, and can you gift wrap them? Put a nice bow on it for me?" You question, innocently. The Armorer raises a brow, then gives you a grin.
"Of course, m'lady."
With the armor still sulking, you rise, snuffing out the fire with a twist of your will. If you're not mistaken, you have two? Three days? Before you meet with the Khagnate.
There's a chime from the datapad, which, you're pretty sure you're going to steal, and Cephie waves up from the routed call. "So, get this right, Emma was already preparing a New Year's party! She didn't even flinch when I said we would be bringing like three hundred off-worlders to Stormmont to enjoy themselves." Cephie grins, stretching, "She's going to have booze, some chef named Mary is already preparing the meals -- bartenders, prostitutes -- if we get the Pirates to bring some music, we can have an actual, honest to the Gods party!"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 13, 2020, 11:30:12 pm
Express approval. Hopefully things won't get too rowdy. After the party, we can broach the topic of Emma joining us in training.
Post by: Superdorf on July 14, 2020, 01:39:04 am
Did Emma know we'd find this void-craft, and the Marines contained therein?
This "party" sounds a right debauch, and no mistake... still, I've a sneaking suspicion the young oracle knows exactly what she's doing. I'm inclined to trust her in this matter.
Nicely done just now, by the by. I daresay you've regained the Armorer's good graces.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 02:48:30 am
Mmh. Pirates respect wit, cleverness, and sarcasm -- and exaggeration. They are a lively bunch.
"Sounds good, Cephie."
"One thing though -- she's going to address the Pirates...but she wants you to come up with a speech for your 'flock'. She wants you to come up with something."
...shit.
"...you...are you okay?" Cephie asks, after your long pause.
"I-...I don't like public speaking."
"...What?"
"I really don't like it."
"Are you afraid of...of making speeches?!" Cephie is all mirth, a wide grin curling her lips as her eyes light up.
"No!" You protest.
"Oh my gods you are! The slayer of the Plague, the woman who spat in a Noble's face -- is afraid of giving a speech!" You disconnect the call as Cephie bursts into laughter. You realize you're flushing -- and the Mirror Pheobe is giggling. With a painful pull, you disconnect the armor from your body, throwing the wire back at it. A text message pops up on the datapad. Party tomorrow! - Cephie.
You sigh, looking up at the rising sun. You have some time to kill, you suppose.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 02:57:30 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 03:05:07 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 03:08:52 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 14, 2020, 05:12:44 am
Practice invisibility, starting with a small portion of your body, and moving on to larger portions if you achieve success.+1 Being able to be invisible would be a useful thing.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 14, 2020, 06:05:00 am
+1 to trying itPractice invisibility, starting with a small portion of your body, and moving on to larger portions if you achieve success.+1 Being able to be invisible would be a useful thing.
Post by: Superdorf on July 14, 2020, 01:04:57 pm
Honing of the will is always valuable. I'm curious as to the combat utility of our probability manipulations myself-- or perhaps you've an idea or two of your own to try out?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 14, 2020, 02:09:04 pm
Let us make one thing clear: any twisting of light around this vessel is to be attempted at Phoenix's discretion. Not ours. She has asked as much, and we will accede.Agreed.
Honing of the will is always valuable. I'm curious as to the combat utility of our probability manipulations myself-- or perhaps you've an idea or two of your own to try out?
Only try this if you want to. If you’d rather not try making your body invisible, what about trying to make something nearby invisible instead? Just to test whether something like that is even possible
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 03:22:57 pm
You cut the calculation, and glance to your armor.
"Take a very, very, very light swing at me."
It nods, lifting a fist and stepping forward.
[15] It's body gives all the clues you need to gracefully dodge the blow, --
[15] And you duck under the other easily.
[7] You don't really think you've learned anything. It's telegraphing it's attacks in order to be relatively gentle with your tender flesh.
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 03:27:06 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 09:49:50 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 09:55:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 10:09:24 pm
Instead of doing so immediately, you sit down and boot the datapad. Photonics is simultaneously complex and simple. Simple in layman's terms, difficult in execution. Rising, you stow the datapad away. Luckily for you, you've already attempted something like this with the Levithan's reactor. However, this requires a smaller scale, and a finer adjustment.
[19][11][5]
You begin by constructing a 'tube' of hydrogen plasma. Into this you feed energy, bouncing it off the ends of the tube until it glows brightly with wasted energy. Then, you 'uncap' it, letting the electromagnetic force push outward in a single burst.
The log blackens in a rough circle, but nothing explosive as you hoped. You frown.
That might have been the plasma and thermal energy built up more than the light...
Post by: Superdorf on July 14, 2020, 10:21:13 pm
...energy.
Lightning.
The hydrogen storms in Alphira's memories-- they crackled with power, did they not? I wonder if I can find you something...
<Mnemonic query: any formulae pertaining to the manipulation and weaponization of electric charge.>
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 11:05:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 11:13:31 pm
You devour some of the carcass, cooking it on a small fire to sate your growing appetite.
[11][17][13]
You form a glowing ball of hydrogen plasma, gathering it up until you have an orb of barely contained, crackling energy in your hand. With a twitch of your willpower, you send it flying -- until it reaches the edge of your area of effect. Once there, it rapidly dissipates in a flash of released energy.
Forming it isn't an issue -- but once it leaves my Willpower, it doesn't work that well. The energy bleeds out too rapidly to cause damage. If I could contain it somehow, it could be a devastating weapon. You ponder, nibbling on a bit of burnt meat. The Demon armor has hunched down by the campfire, watching you practice.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 14, 2020, 11:29:22 pm
Attempt to will forth a persistent electromagnetic containment device for plasma.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 14, 2020, 11:49:30 pm
[18][19] You quirk your lips, considering. Idly, you twist a bit of silicon from the earth and shape it into a rough ball with very thin walls. You fill it with hydrogen and turn the inside into a churning mass of pressurized fire. However, even with you venting the excess temperature, the silicon, in places, rapidly burns away into nothingness. You frown, tossing aside both plasma and molten silicon. There's a pop and a hiss from the plasma as your control of the energy is released, and the molten silicon lands harmlessly, for you, on the grass, turning into silvery, shiny slag. It starts a small fire that dwindles out.
[20] You twist hydrogen into a burning hot fire, compressing it and compressing it. The roiling fire twists and turns within your willpower's grasp, and, you, for show, pretend your hand is actually doing something as you wave it in the air. The grass catches fire, blackening and charring away. Steam hisses up from the ground as you bake it solid. Small fires catch on your clothes, but you stand unaffected. "Making plasma is easy, really, it's the same as my Inferno. Compressed hydrogen, superheated by its own energy. The difficulty is pushing it pass my willpower's limits."
The Demon armor watches you, its lenses fixated on the half-circle of plasma that hovers just a few [meters] in front of you. With a twist of your will, you incinerate through a nearby tree, sending it collapsing to the ground -- but once it reaches about [twenty-six] or so [meters] the plasma collapses as the temperature is diffused through the atmosphere.
Post by: Superdorf on July 14, 2020, 11:54:39 pm
<Mnemonic query: can the range of one's will be extended through practice? If so, how?>
The lightning formula. I feel it can be refined-- might the datapad's repositories be of use in that regard?
Post by: ZBridges on July 15, 2020, 12:00:04 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 15, 2020, 12:08:39 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 15, 2020, 12:14:00 am
[14]...blah blah blah, charges jump between positive and negative... You pause mid-article about storms affecting hydrogen extraction operations on gas giants.
[15][12][8]
A distance away you gather a cloud of hydrogen, keeping it from forming water vapor by dint of Willpower. This you churn rapidly, until you notice small sparks forming within. Without any oxygen to burn, it does not ignite into fire. You continue to drag the atoms against one another, building up static electricity and keeping it contained by a field of protons. Then, when you can feel the cackle of power within, you unleash it.
The yield is lower, due to the small nature of the experiment, but an arc of lightning leaps downward, charring the grass beneath it. But, by letting the hydrogen do all the work, you've spent far less energy than you would've otherwise. You pick at a burnt piece of meat, watching the small plume of smoke from the spot you just sent lightning down on.
Post by: Superdorf on July 15, 2020, 12:38:15 am
That'll be a right fury, brought to scale. A hydrogen storm fit to out-crackle the aura of any Colossus.
Post by: ZBridges on July 15, 2020, 01:52:29 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 15, 2020, 05:09:38 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 15, 2020, 08:41:45 am
((If we’re using positively charged particles, wouldn’t it be easier to use protons instead of positrons since positrons are antimatter?))
Post by: ZBridges on July 15, 2020, 05:26:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 15, 2020, 09:17:33 pm
The formulae are sound. Now-- expand. Extrapolate. Can you wield fire and thunder together, knowing what you now know?
Post by: ZBridges on July 15, 2020, 09:29:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 15, 2020, 09:45:45 pm
I don’t like calling it Demon.
How about we hunt the Plague together?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 15, 2020, 10:19:30 pm
I have no control over ferrous metal to produce such a containment field, only my own...and as for goading it...I'm pretty sure I know how it will react, but perhaps its best to point it out in deeds -- it doesn't need us. At all.
You goad the armor, with a painted grin, and it turns its head to blink at you.
[42 vs 13] The Demon Armor rises, and with a twitch of its muscles, lunges at you. It crosses the distance in a bound. Its hands wrap around your throat as it lifts you up and slams you into the ground, hard enough to force the breath from your lung -- but you know its being gentle, its playing, even as one of your ribs cracks. You gasp as the Demon Armor cocks its head to one side. Then, without effort, it tosses you aside as easily as one would bat away a fly.
Are you so proud that you think I desire your powers?
[20 vs 1]
[23-10 vs 17]
[15]
You roll, exhaling a grunt. The Armor tilts its head, then, with another twitch of its muscles, it lunges at you again. Something clicks within you, a calculation briefly unlocking, and its variables are the position of the enemy, its strength, its power, its experience, the wind, the turn of the earth -- hundreds of them fitting into place with a single, rapid conscious thought. You twist yourself to one side before the Armor can adjust, and, with a twist of your willpower and a pocket of hydrogen, you send the Suit flying into a tree.
It rises to its feet, grinning in its malevolence.
[16] You stare at it, calming your heavy breath, but it returns to hunch by the fire. You rub your side, feeling the bones reset and slip back into place.
Now...for the other thing...
[11][10][19][11][10]
You create a massive cloud of condensed hydrogen above you, [twenty-five meters] across. You gather and condense it, grinding the atoms together until it roils with barely contained energy. Then you push it further, nearly losing control as you gather more and more energy, using the kinetic force of the air to give the reaction strength. You surround yourself with a protective electromagnetic force, and make a path to the ground with another.
Then, you unleash hell.
The blast rips apart the clearing and sends you flying back, the hydrogen exploding into a massive ball of flame as your willpower releases it. You shut your eyes, falling into the icy water. It shocks you awake, helping to clear your head of the concussive force. A crater nearly a [mile wide] has replaced the clearing, and all around it the trees have been bent back and burned. Great pillars of fulgarite reach towards the heavens -- however, you cannot hear through the ringing in your ears, and the world swims around you. You stagger, and drop to your knees after pulling yourself from the water.
The Demon Armor drags itself from the water, and grins at the damages.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 15, 2020, 10:34:02 pm
Let’s go Plague hunting
Should have checked status
Post by: Superdorf on July 15, 2020, 11:17:31 pm
When did you become the voice of "no," Constantine?((Uhh, I should ask. Have I been shutting people down overmuch?))
Holy--
---
...heh.
Heh-ha.
Ahaha.
Beautiful!
Oh dear, but we've gone and exhausted you again... and then some. Stay put-- keep your head still--
"I don't suppose you saved any of that [beast of burden]?"
Do you still have that datapad on you? I don't like this concussion... we may need to call in an extraction, or let the demon armor walk us to camp.
Post by: ZBridges on July 16, 2020, 03:15:33 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 16, 2020, 04:52:59 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 16, 2020, 08:55:27 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 16, 2020, 04:01:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 16, 2020, 04:49:42 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 16, 2020, 05:18:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 16, 2020, 06:28:47 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 16, 2020, 06:32:55 pm
I want to know why anyone thought goading the armor who could easily kill us was a good idea...thst was stupid and unnecessary
My intention wasn't to "goad" it. It was a simple question. I didn't know it would react explosively. But sure, that was much more stupid than overusing our powers to the brink of starvation, giving ourself a concussion, and deafening us?
Is that what you're saying, Naturegirl1999?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 16, 2020, 06:40:16 pm
No. Never mind. I don’t know what I was saying. Just forget I said anything, we should head back to camp.I want to know why anyone thought goading the armor who could easily kill us was a good idea...thst was stupid and unnecessary
My intention wasn't to "goad" it. It was a simple question. I didn't know it would react explosively. But sure, that was much more stupid than overusing our powers to the brink of starvation, giving ourself a concussion, and deafening us?
Is that what you're saying, Naturegirl1999?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 17, 2020, 12:00:50 am
I greatly appreciate each and every one of you for following this thread and game so loyally over the last six months. Its amazing to think that you guys enjoy, or enjoyed, this game like this. So thank you, and I really mean that.
Second thing! Lets all take a nice relaxing breath. I never want this game to be a source of frustration or anger, and I'm sorry that it has happened. Conflict has always been civil on this game so far and I would like to keep it that way. This game is for enjoyment, because, remember, even losing is fun! Also ninety percent of the time I want to kill Pheonix. I enjoy it greatly when you get into conflict, because a front without unity is easier to break! :D Seriously. I have a problem. Don't give me this temptation.
Third thing. I apologize for misunderstanding, Zbridges, and I apologize for causing the stress. That's a limitation of text, I feel, is that it cannot translate emotions and intent, which, when subtlety is involved, makes things difficult for everyone.
Alright! Lets take a break and chill for a day. Everyone cool? If you aren't, please, send me a PM! We can talk it out.
((Edited to remove 50% of exclamation points because it made me look like a jackass.))
Post by: Superdorf on July 17, 2020, 12:20:05 am
Alright! Lets take a break and chill for a day.
Hoooff, I'm glad you said that. Was considering requesting something similar.
Let's rest for a day... and then, let's talk this out before we jump back in. This became an out-of-character issue at some point, and I feel we all need the chance to address it as such.
Post by: King Zultan on July 17, 2020, 05:03:32 am
Post by: Eschar on July 17, 2020, 08:54:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 18, 2020, 02:40:52 pm
I am going to finish this game no matter what. I cannot fail it.
Post by: ZBridges on July 18, 2020, 05:45:42 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 18, 2020, 08:32:13 pm
First off: Egar. You're an amazing writer. I've said it before, I expect I'll say it again. As soon as things wrap up here (one way or another), I'm kicking this thread straight to the Hall of Legends. It belongs there.
That said… losing is not fun. Not this time.
(I'll explain.)
If we'd chosen way back when to play the "murderhobo vigilante" you expected us to be? Maybe a bloody romp and a swift death would have been OK. We didn't do that-- we couldn't do that. You showed us a world that was strange, and beautiful, and broken-- so we took the charge given us, and we set out to guide her (as best we could) through to a better life. Phoebe became a daughter of sorts. More so, once we learned how she'd taken on an identity of her own-- an identity apart from ours.
It... hurts, to lose a child. To watch that child suffer.
Even in a story, it still hurts.
It's not fun.
Is it just me troubled by this? I assumed so before, but... well... we fell apart back there, and this is the best explanation I have. ZBridges?
Post by: ZBridges on July 18, 2020, 09:12:40 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 18, 2020, 09:34:05 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 18, 2020, 09:51:27 pm
I'll see this through, if I can. I'll keep clawing for that happy ending. I just wanted to point out that there's a real cost to this fictitious struggle, for many of us-- strange though that notion might be.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 19, 2020, 01:23:52 am
So, let me explain something about this game -- it was going to wait, but now seems like a good time...its an experiment. A sort of participatory design. A very rough draft of a system and setting I wanted to flesh out and work within. I appreciate everything, and each player I get, because I get to see what can be done within the system.
So with that said--
I'm a new writer. This is the first work I've gotten this far in. The games I've dm'ed in the past? Never got this far. So, basically-- I have no fucking idea what I'm doing half the time. But, I've always tended towards pieces of work with brutal themes, towards struggle, towards y'know, not nice shit. I feel like I'm really good at describing gore, for instance!
But I understand on a fundamental level that too much darkness isn't good. That it needs to be balanced. All I can say on that front is...trust me. Perhaps it won't be the happy ending you hope for, but this isn't Warhammer 40k.
Any other issues? Please. Seriously. I want the game to be enjoyable. There are some things I will not bend on, but I want to know, right?
I...I kind of want to implement something -- to negate fears of worry about a meaningless, unsatisfactory death, but I'm concerned about broaching the subject, as it is rather meta.
Post by: King Zultan on July 19, 2020, 06:00:16 am
Post by: Eschar on July 19, 2020, 08:25:16 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 19, 2020, 08:45:55 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 19, 2020, 12:03:13 pm
*snip*
I... will try to trust. As best I may. Thank you.
Just remember... this has been a "first draft" for you. It has not been such for us. These aren't throwaway characters-- you've put too much life in them now for that.
All that said, I just wanted to toss a quick question to everyone here.
Is there any... bad blood between us at this time? Have I given offense to anyone here, in my arguings? Things got pretty hot back there, and I want to clear the air before we jump back in.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 19, 2020, 12:40:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 19, 2020, 02:14:11 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 19, 2020, 03:02:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 19, 2020, 06:16:14 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 19, 2020, 07:01:40 pm
Happy birthday!
Post by: Superdorf on July 19, 2020, 07:07:48 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 19, 2020, 07:26:19 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 19, 2020, 07:27:21 pm
Post by: King Zultan on July 20, 2020, 03:30:29 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 21, 2020, 11:33:49 am
Behold, I live! Or something. Conjugations suck. So do hangovers. And job interviews while you're hungover. And driving for four hours while hungover...in other words, I apologize for yesterday's lack of posting.))
The Demon Armor's red lenses twist to focus on you, then the wreckage of the lightning strike. You giggle as the world swims around you, and your stomach turns with the nausea of your hunger and head injury. With a lackadaisical shrug, it leans down and hefts you across its shoulders. You point a finger towards the Crusader Camp's vague direction, and the armor begins to trudge that way dutifully. You don't think this machine understands the concept of gentle; it carries you like a sack of [potatoes], readjusting you across its hard shoulders and bumping you around as it walks. When it approaches the camp, the Crusaders on guard lift their las-guns.
They speak, but you cannot hear. The guards seem concerned when they spot you, their guns lowering. You wave.
The Armor only pauses for the briefest of moments, its lenses narrowing on the weapons. Then, it grins and moves towards a random tent, throwing you into the bed and stepping through the flap to stand guard at the entrance.
A medic hurries in soon after it leaves, and you point to your ears and your head. She checks your eyes and dips a nod. Then, she removes a file from her coat, [CRITICAL CARE INFORMATION FOR MOTHER PHEONIX]. Then she nods, moving to slip it back away, but your gesture for it, out of curiosity.
It's a single piece of paper with a list. The back has a recipe for nutrient gruel. Your eyes drift over the paper as the medic hurries out, and you sometimes lose focus.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The medic returns with a pile of nutrient bars, and she breaks them into chunks and begins to feed you. True to the document, you devour five of these before your strength returns. After that, it is a simple matter to use a healing surge...
[18] Pain lances through your skull and ears, and your eye twitches. You think you heard a creak from your skull, but you are unsure-- however, sounds begin to filter in again.
"Thank you." You murmur, and the medic nods, giving a bow of her head and picking her folder back up.
"We got a hovercraft approaching, Mother Pheonix." A voice calls from outside the tent. You rise from the cheap cot, and head out. Its the Pirates, as evidenced by the print of twelve snakes curled in a circle on the outside of the vehicle. But that isn't what first draws your attention. Its obviously the weapons you ordered, hanging from below the craft. A shipping container.
Its wrapped in a bright, multi-colored cloth, with garish designs in pink and gold. All around it is thick ribbon, tied in a neat bow. The drop it down to the ground with a careful thud. The hovercraft drops lower, and ramp falls to hit the shipping container, the young Armorer striding out to dip a bow.
"Your delivery, m'lady." He turns, the ramp lifts, and the Pirate hovercraft makes its way back to the Valhol.
You grin, moving to the crate and ripping off the thin fabric so you can open the door--
You are greeted by another layer of fabric as the door swings open.
Then another.
Even the indivual packages are wrapped. You open a shield belt package--
And the item itself is crudely wrapped in thin fabric.
You command the Crusaders to begin loading the goods within and return to your cot. You rest a little while as night begins to fall on the Camp. You're hundreds of miles away from the Plague, and you're sure that Cephie and Emma are expecting you to go to the party tomorrow.
You stifle a yawn and think about what you want to do.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 21, 2020, 04:18:43 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 21, 2020, 11:49:40 pm
Spoiler: (Currently Archaic Star Name) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: (Mercenary's Rest) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: (II) (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: (Nich) (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on July 22, 2020, 12:00:01 am
Look for information on disputes and arbitration in the Empyre. Do we have any legal ways to defend ourselves from a marauding Noble of the Empyre?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 22, 2020, 12:20:35 am
[-] You begin to read through a great many posts from a great many Pirate and Illegal sources. As Alphias of Sol demonstrated, not even the Golden Law of the Pirate King/Queen would be respected by the Nobility, even if presented by an Heir of Sol themself. The Golden Law stated that Brigands, Rebels, Pirates, and other less respectable types, could if they amassed a large enough fleet, be recognized as a sovereign empire and/or government of the Empyre. The Empyre and these Pirates would enter into a mutual defense alliance, and the Navy would no longer view them as a threat. It was an old law, given precedence, and forged into the heart of the Empyre by Sol herself.
[20]Even before Alphias' demonstration, the Nobles had begun to disregard the laws of their own Empyre completely. Democracies were broken, sovereign states and empires were destroyed or had to bend the knee, planets were either ruined or cracked, and the young Noble heirs began to strike out pass the Core in hedonistic, destructive excursions. Those empires and governments that allied with the Nobles began to turn on their neighbors, resulting in thousands of wars that claimed trillions of lives. The Emperor's Peace was as broken as one of the Walls of the Eternity Fortress.
[15]...and it was made worse by the sheer amount of war material, fleets, and out of work mercenaries that suddenly found themselves victorious in the Plague Wars of the last thousand years. The economic downturn caused by the instability, new valuable resources brought about by the Plague -- and many, many other factors all lead to what's being called the Empyreal Age of Piracy.
[1]Of course, the Herald of this new age and, according to some, its mastermind, the group that showed every pirate, mercenary, and Free Planet that the Empyre no longer held to the laws of its founding-- The Line of Sol.
Post by: ZBridges on July 22, 2020, 12:29:10 am
Have any independent petty empires or nations survived in this part of the Rim?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 22, 2020, 12:42:07 am
[1] You yawn, unsure of why that is. Something about Void shifts? And Galactic Ensarement? Whatever those mean. There's also something about the Planet Zero actually being close by. The science of the former goes over your uneducated head for the moment. You pick at a ration bar.
Post by: ZBridges on July 22, 2020, 12:44:13 am
Post by: Eschar on July 22, 2020, 12:54:25 am
Post by: King Zultan on July 22, 2020, 05:22:35 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 22, 2020, 11:47:53 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on July 22, 2020, 05:52:18 pm
The path down memory lane is appreciated but you might want to focus on the here and now, conquer the planet and get yourself stronger. You can worry about forging a new pirate empire later.
Also the key to creating anti-matter was actually quite simple. Wish I could remember it!
Get some sleep, sweet dreams!
Post by: Superdorf on July 22, 2020, 11:23:44 pm
((Fair warning, folks: I'm on vacation! My participation here may be spotty at times... internet's not great where I'm staying. I'll try and check in when I can-- is good to see the thread chugging along again!)
Antimatter... would you be so kind as to peruse your <archives> on the matter, [father/mentor, sculptor-- lit. "he who carves stone"]? You might find an old formula scrap or two.
Rest. You did good things today.
Post by: King Zultan on July 23, 2020, 04:04:53 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 23, 2020, 11:52:41 pm
...you look out over your kingdom from one of the tremendous gleaming spires that rise from the planet's crust below. The stars shine down through the moonless night as hundreds of sleek ships cut through the Void. A great capital ship, as big as a small moon comes into view, hanging over your city.
Your Peerage has finally come for you. A Noble's Fleet hangs over your world.
You turn away, striding into your Palace as explosions of energy turn the night into day. Your children stand silently, looking to you for hope, for victory, for anything other than the destruction of your Rimward Kingdom...
But there is no hope. No chance at victory. Your mercenaries dead or released from their service. Your fleets lay shattered in another system. Your cities are being reduced to glass.
There is no hope. Not for you...
You do not awaken with a start or a flinch, too used to nightmares. Only a sigh escapes your lips as you awaken from the memories that are and are not your own. You check your time, and, judging by the light, six hours of sleep is all you need. You rise from your cot and join the Crusaders at the breakfast campfire.
[-]It is by your firm insistence alone that they treat you like another campmate. You and the Demonic arm walk into the forest to gather wood in the morning's early twilight. You emerge with piles of sticks and some well-sized logs, then take your breakfast of nutrient gruel with the rest. While sitting, you watch your Crusaders, trying to get a judge of their morale, but they don't relax around you, keeping themselves stiff and formal.
It is only when Nicole stumbles out of her tent and approaches do they seem to relax. She doesn't try to help, instead of snatching a bowl of food and muscling her way between two of the Crusaders for a better place by the fire. She nods to you when she sees you, her eyes finding the Armor that hovers menacingly at your shoulder.
"I would've shot that thing first chance I got." Nicole offers helpfully.
"It's strong. Stronger than even the colossi." You quietly respond, "I don't like it that much, either."
"Anything to win the war sooner, I guess." Nicole shrugs.
"...Mother...Mother Nicole?" One of the Crusaders lifts his hand. One of the younger ones, brand new, would judge by the recruit rank attached to his coat. Panic flashes through the eyes of the older, more experienced, and higher ranked Crusaders as they look at him. "...are...are we going to win?"
Mother Nicole looks surprised, then shocked, then disgusted. The Crusader Officer rises quickly and grabs the youth by the Armor. The Officer apologizes and pushes the younger man away with a "Latrine cleaning. Now."
"One moment, Child MacTyler." The officer freezes, still holding his charge by the arm. Nicole rises, moving to step in front of the young Crusader. "If we don't win -- we'll have nothing to worry over. Because we'll be dead. Your family. Dead. Your friends. Dead. Every last human life on this blessed planet will die if we do not win. Every. Single. One." She pauses, glancing at the sky. "What is the punishment for cowardice, Child MacTyler?"
The Officer hesitates before he speaks, "Execution at dawn."
Nicole nods, and, in one fluid motion, she draws her las-pistol and presses it into the offending Crusader's head. The Officer flinches, gritting his teeth. You start to rise, but -- she pulls the trigger.
Nothing happens besides the pistol clicking uselessly. The recruit slumps in the Officer's grip and Nicole leans forward, "I want you to remember this, recruit. I'm scarier than any Infected." She dips a nod to the Officer, reclaiming her seat. The other Crusaders find something to do, leaving you alone with your grandmother.
"Sleep well?" Nicole asks, nonplussed.
You give a small nod and reclaim your seat.
"Mmh. So that Cephie demon, is she trustworthy?"
"No."
"You two seem friendly."
"For now." You lie.
Nicole nods, finishing her meal. She pats you on the shoulder as she returns to her tent.
You do the same.
"Crusader Hovercraft, in sight!" A Crusader calls, and you rise, surprised to see one of the largest Hovercraft in your fleet descending to hover above the Valhal. Ramps drop down from the craft, and Pirates emerge from the broken void-ship. Voidmarines funnel the crowd into Hovercraft. It takes a solid hour, and you watch, content to simply sit amongst the trees and in the high grass. Eventually, the craft turns towards your position. With the camp broken down, it's a simple matter to load up the smaller crafts and lift into the sky to tail the larger ship.
The internal landing bay has been cleared, you note, to make room for the party. Your first expression leaves you awe-struck, jaw gaping. Half a dozen bars have been set up, with shelves filled with liquor and booze. [Vodka], [Rum], beers, bottles upon bottles of wine, and interesting barrels crudely labeled [kumis, lit milk wine]. Even before the pirates stream in, people are sitting at the bars and drifting near the dining tables. Beautiful men and women sit in clean and neat outfits, styles unseen since the destruction of SEED. But there are also shady types, in heavy coats, strategically placed -- no doubt Thornton drug peddlers there to supply uppers, downers or any other motley assortment of drugs that Silas and the Family have produced.
A massive row of tables sits in the middle of all this, filled to the brim with food. [Beast of Burden] legs, dripping with juices and seasoned with [rosemary] and [garlic], skins charred to a gorgeous brown. Cooked [poultry] with crispy skins -- and in the center of it all is a massive spit with smoldering, smoking logs, roasting a whole bug carcass. Chef Mary stands nearby with a wickedly sharp scimitar, quietly directing a number of her cooks this way and that. They bring out steaming plates of vegetables, potatoes, and elegant desserts. You grin when you notice Cephie's craft is the center of these cook's attention.
Interestingly, a single hovercraft still sits docked -- one of the merchant craft. You don't even have to look within to guess its purpose -- the outside has gauzes of cloth done in outlander style, and quite a few beautiful, well-dressed people lounge nearby. Fragrant smoke drifts from this lounge, as does the scent of perfume.
Thorton Warmachines stand guard at the main entryway, and when your ship docks, Emma emerges, all smiles. Without a word, she guides you through the guards, directing you to your room. On your bed sits an elegant, stylish set of clothes -- all gleaming black silks, red belts, and golden jewelry. You nod as she steps out of the room, feeling a pang of regret. You shower, dress, and try to drag a comb through your hair. Then you get another when the teeth of the first break. Emma returns, quietly helping you tie your hair in a neat topknot. "First things first -- you have a speech to give to your people. It's not public, just over the broadcast system. The theme is mourning through revelry. Celebrate being alive."
"Mourning through revelry?"
"I distributed an excess supply of bug meat, [potatoes], and [Vodka] for the general population. I granted everyone who wanted to run a small stall a stipend to help us distribute and get rid of it. Our people are starting to celebrate, but the more zealous of our people want to keep mourning -- we cannot. This our life now. Celebrate being alive -- leave the regrets for the morning after."
You pause, then nod.
"It also covers our lavish little party for your Barons of Steel. That fanatic in the council chamber didn't want anything -- so tomorrow is a full day of service. Compromise." She guides you down the elevator after she finishes fussing with your hair, into a room with a microphone, an archaic sound system, and a single attendant. A red light is on, next to dim green light.
Panic tightens your chest at the thought of the speech.
Uh...help. Please.
Post by: ZBridges on July 24, 2020, 12:12:36 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on July 24, 2020, 12:42:30 am
I would tell you to enjoy yourself, but you are tied to that abomination of an armor now so I would suggest keeping it as far from the revelry as possible.
Hey out of curiosity, what form of antimatter are in those missiles. With the right control you might be able to use it as a potent weapon without cracking the planet in half.
Post by: King Zultan on July 24, 2020, 08:29:13 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 24, 2020, 08:55:27 am
“This is the new normal, we are still alive, celebrating life puts us all in a better mood, a better mood will allow us to focus more on the future, rather than dwelling on what has already transpired”
((Improvements and additions welcome))
Post by: Superdorf on July 24, 2020, 06:50:56 pm
I think we’ll need to come up with the words, Constantine is better at speech making than me
((Uhh right then. Gimme a bit, I'll try and throw something together... ZBridges has the gist of it down already; I'll just extrapolate from there.))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 24, 2020, 07:26:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 25, 2020, 12:21:08 am
Peace. Comfort.
Words I offer.
...
My children.
We are called this day to grief, and to celebration. Grief, for those we have lost. Celebration, of that which they held so dear.
This is a day for celebration, my children! For joy in sorrow! We raise our glasses in honor! We raise our glasses to the honored dead, who have given all for the love of their home-- their Work-- their people. Tomorrow, we will mourn their loss. Today, we celebrate their valor. Today, we partake gratefully of the gift they have given us: through their lives, our lives. Our land, and such bounty as it has given us.
Let this day be our holy day. Our celebration in grief. Our sacred remembrance, now and in every year to come. By these words we will know this day-- by these words we will commemorate the fallen--
May their memory be eternal. To us, life.
Enjoy the revelries.
...
"Αἰωνία ἡ μνήμη"-- "memory be eternal". An old theme. A favorite of mine.
Alter and augment our words as you will, Φοῖνιξ Ἥλιης. You are at your best, when you speak from your own reckoning.
Post by: King Zultan on July 25, 2020, 04:06:09 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 25, 2020, 04:07:13 am
Post by: Eschar on July 25, 2020, 11:48:20 am
((I'm actually genuinely impressed at how you are all contributing to the story and have all basically picked up roles.))
((My role is "the guy who is in love with complicated unworkable ideas," I suppose?:) ))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 26, 2020, 04:08:12 pm
Spoiler: I suck as a songwriter so here's someone else's music. (click to show/hide)
With kind words and inspirations in mind, you take a step forward and dip a nod to the controller. He flicks a switch, the green light turns on, and you swallow down your nervousness.
"I hope the morning finds you well, my Children."
You pause for just a moment to build the tension.
"We are called this day to grief, and to celebration. Grief, for those we have lost. Celebration of that which they held so dear. Let us take a moment to raise a glass of wine, of water, of fire, to grieve and to celebrate those lives."
You pause as Emma quickly pours you a stinging glass of Vodka, which you down quickly. After a slightly exaggerated breath, you continue, letting the fire from the alcohol creep into your words.
"This is a day for celebration, my children! For joy in sorrow! We raise our glasses in honor! We raise our glasses to the honored dead, who have given all for the love of their home-- their Work-- their people. Tomorrow, we will mourn their loss. Today, we celebrate their valor. Today, we partake gratefully of the gift they have given us: through their lives, our lives. Our land, and such bounty as it has given us!"
"Let this day be our holy day. Our celebration in grief. Our sacred remembrance, now and in every year to come. By these words we will know this day-- by these words we will commemorate the fallen -- May their memory be eternal. To us, life."
You pause, breathing out a soft sigh, twisting a cheerful lilt into your voice, but keeping the sadness of loss still fresh.
"Enjoy the revelries."
The microphone cuts off, the red light turns on, and the three of you sit patiently for a few minutes. Emma is grinning, then, softly, "[Constantine?]"
You flush, and nod.
Three people enter the room after many minutes, in unmarked clothes. They bow their heads when they see you and Emma. The first offers the pleasantries, "Lady Pheonix. Lady Emma." Thorntons, then.
"How did it go over?" Emma asks nervously, picking at her dress.
"We didn't stay long to gather information." He begins. Emma flinches, concerned by the worry in his voice.
[20]"We didn't need to. From the tip of the mountain to the bottom, the people cheered for Pheonix and the nation. Everyone we saw toasted, and the festivities began in full." Another laughs, as the false tension drops from the trio's shoulders. "By SEED, the Crusaders and Guardians even joined in. Even the fanatics broke their teetotaling to raise a glass."
You slump with relief, laughing. Emma smiles, then, with a nod to the trio, dismisses them with a "Go enjoy yourself. Two drink limit -- help the Crusaders and Guardians if they need it with public safety."
"My Lady." They bow out, and Emma takes you by the hand to drag you to the party.
"It's my turn for a speech." Emma murmurs over to you, as the two of you stand in the elevator. "I used the toy you sent home with Cephie to research our Line. I feel it is a good idea to impress upon our new allies where you stand, and who stands behind you."
Remembering what an Ancestor told you, you give the nod, putting your trust in the Oracle.
"Try not to blush--" She pauses, then, with a press of a button, the elevator stops. "There is something else we must discuss, Pheonix. Your relationship with Cephie."
You blink, opening your mouth to offer a defense.
[1] "To be honest with you, I don't care. Just keep it under wraps. If the public were to find out, it could cause confusion and strife. Especially between the Families and the general population." Emma calmly explains. A pain strikes at your heart.
"How did you--"
"I asked her."
[17 vs. 5]You clench your jaw. Suppressing your anger, you quietly ask, making sure not to hope too loudly, "You're not angry? Or jealous?"
"No." Emma presses the button, starting the lift again. "Who you 'spend time' with is of no concern to me. Keep it under wraps -- only those that are trustworthy."
The rest of the ride passes in silence. Moments before the door opens, Emma composes herself, putting on a pleasant smile. Two Warmachines greet you at the landing pad door, giving a bow of their heads and letting you pass by their security without a second glance.
"Thank you all for coming to this revelry. I am Lady Thornton, Regent of Pheonix's Fortress-State, Lord Protector of the Sandsper and Hoganson Families; Emeralda Thornton -- I am told we share Blood." Emma begins, approaching the crowd, raising her voice despite the microphone that sits on the high collar of her dress. Her voice echoes out across the assembled mass of Pirates. The conversation dies down, and Murdach pushes through the crowd. His 'head' tilts downward in respect towards the two of you. His sensors, however, twitch towards Cephie, mirroring his Pirate's own slightly confused glance.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Emeralda Thornton. Forgive me if I do not bow -- it is against my culture." In a calm brogue, he offers smoothly, "I have come with gifts for the beautiful lady of our great ally." He lifts a hand, and two Pirates drag a metal chest forward, dropping it at Emma's feet. They back away, and the chest pops open of its own volition with a hiss of hydraulics. Within are various jewelry and trinkets. All of it is finely worked, bearing the craftsmanship of a dozen worlds -- and all it forged from rare metals—platinum, palladium, and jade.
Three items lay atop the pile, however. A small canister of some powdery, white substance. A dueling las-gun wrought with precious gems and other rare materials, and a graceful comb, which flows organically and gracefully. Emma glances down at the three items, her eyes flicking up to the Captain. Without hesitation, she reaches down, picking up the pistol to look it over.
[18] You notice the grins upon the senior Pirate officers. One even nods.
"This a beautiful weapon -- and these are amazing gifts. You have my thanks, Captain Murdach. My good friend Cephie, Pheonix's retainer, tells me that you have been asleep for many years. No doubt you wish to quench your thirst, but if I may be permitted to raise a toast before we begin our revelry."
"Of course," Murdach replies smoothly. Drinks are distributed to the crowd as a screen descends. You take another glass of alcohol, Ascended Wine this time, as even smelling the drink makes your head spin.
"I wish to raise a toast, to my lover, my friend, and my dearest ally, as today is her birthday!" A video begins to play on the screen. Its a montage -- you stand bleeding and broken in front of Magnus, delivering your threat. One of Alphias doing the same. A still image of the Moore Family villa with an enormous hole in the side, and you emerging from it. One of you, during the first year of your academy -- the next of you standing before a great crowd of soldiers, making your first speech. A picture from the propaganda department of your second battle with the colossi. Intercut between these pictures is the video of Alphias' last stand. "Her Sire stood unbowed before the Nobility, just as she stands unbowing. He destroyed the Plague just as she does. She delivers us from our foes, and now she's going to deliver us from tyranny! I thank you, as does every free man, woman, and everything in between. My beloved Pheobe..."
[20] "To the next Queen of the Pirates! Hail Lady Pheonix!" The Wall of Infinity cracks under Alphias' siege. Broad dark lines forming in the structure of pure light as the laws of the universe shatter -- a soundbyte is perfectly timed to echo out over the crowd as Emma raises her glass. A collective gasp rises from the group. They stare in silence, glancing between the paused video and you with shock and awe. It's a perfect picture -- seven wings of fire erupting from Alphias's back as he stands before his handiwork.
They call your name back as one -- Murdach is the only one who does not. His sensors narrow on you. The glasses emptied in a single drink.
[18 vs. 4+5]"Thank you." Emma bows her head, reaching out to pull you into a tight hug and to plant a kiss on your cheek. She gives a laugh and a flush, but you're the only one that can see the coldness in her ice-blue eyes as she looks at you—the twitch of a scowl.
The party begins, and Emma slips away to chat and mingle. She plays the hostess well, encouraging discussion between the Pirate Officers and the Council. Crusader and Soldier. Eric and Isela speak to the young Armorer and a taller man that looks quite similar, besides for his lean, long-legged height. Two Voidmarines step out of their armor, bright red hair nearly glowing in the light as they begin to drink at the bar. Murdach sits quietly upon a couch made for the Warmachines, chatting with a beautiful woman dressed in a SEED uniform.
Cephie emerges from the crowd, holding a bottle of wine. She smiles happily as the two of you take a seat at one of the less crowded bars. "So, what do you want to do first!?" She asks, excited. Music begins to echo throughout the room, as the Pirates finally finish setting up their sound system.
"...Oh, written in the stars..."
Post by: Eschar on July 26, 2020, 04:31:34 pm
Yes, yes, priorities, but I'm not a fount of inspiration regarding her last question.
Excellent speech, fellow advisors, and excellent delivery, Phoenix.
Post by: ZBridges on July 26, 2020, 05:12:36 pm
Post by: Iris on July 26, 2020, 08:11:22 pm
Oh.
Yeah, that... makes sense, actually. I suspected that Cephie was interested in us. It's surprising, but not really shocking.
Anyway, back to the matter at hand. I'm not really the social type, so I can't really give good advice. Just have fun and try not do something you regret?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 26, 2020, 08:49:10 pm
Cephie dips a nod, raising her glass and clinking it against your's. "Sounds good. May I make a counter proposal?"
You take a sip of your drink, gesturing for her to continue.
"We finish these glasses, go eat, go shake down a Thornton for whatever drugs they might have. Do them, then drink more. I'll teach you how to dance. Then as this is a Pirate party -- when night falls somebody is going to set up a sparring ring. We stomp a few heads, maybe toss a Voidmarine around or watch the fights. When we get too drunk, we'll raid my stash for an upper, then go from there. How does that sound?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 26, 2020, 09:03:29 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 26, 2020, 09:31:30 pm
I'll leave this one to your own judgement, Φοῖνιξ-- it's your birthday party, after all!-- but be careful. You've an image to maintain, even here: before the Twelve Clans, before their descendants, and before SEED's children. They will be watching us close.
Post by: ZBridges on July 26, 2020, 10:26:38 pm
Just kidding. Do be cautious about mixing uppers and downers, and don't partake in more than you are comfortable with. Since this will be your first exposure to these drugs, take lighter doses than Cephie.
Post by: Eschar on July 26, 2020, 10:27:58 pm
I am curious to see how this goes.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 27, 2020, 12:32:10 am
[13] You nod, handing the cup over to the bartender. You make your way to the buffet line, piling up as many plates as you can carry with food. Cephie balances some on her wrists and her thumb with a wink and a grin. In turn, you levitate them around you, using the natural silicon within the plates to 'hold' on to them. You find an empty table, digging into the food with the ravenous appetite that only an Ascended could bring to bear—whipped mash [potatoes] filled with butter and cream. Red meat steaks, dripping with juices, and seasoned heavily with [pepper] and [rosemary]. Vegetable tarts and gratins. You're chewing on a pastry of sweet plums when Isela and Eric approach your table.
"Happy birthday, Mother Pheonix. I didn't know." Isela offers politely, cheerfully. Eric stays quiet, a faithful bodyguard sipping water. "I didn't know that you even had one. I know that sounds awful--"
You give her a wave, smiling, "I don't know if it is or not. I guess it's just the day they picked. I don't remember having a birthday or...creation day?"
"Decanting." Cephie offers politely. You turn to look at her, "[If you're loomed, its called your DCANTDay.]"
Isela and Eric look confused but give a small nod as Cephie explains, "Her creation would be called a Decanting."
"Ah. Interesting." Isela nods politely, before glancing to you, "These are some interesting allies you've gained for us, Mother Pheonix. I look forward to seeing them in action."
"You will. I believe they'll start sparring as soon as night falls." You explain, picking at a bit of crunchy pastry. "From what I've seen, I think most if not all of them could take on a Colossus by themselves. At least, their captain can."
After a bit of polite conversation about work, and the council, and the war, Isela excuses herself with a duck of her head. They drift away through the crowd to accost one of the many Voidmarines trudging through the room. You watch as a young woman opens up her suit and steps out to speak more comfortably. The armor stiffens but hangs over her shoulder like a guardian angel.
"[So, how do you know I'm Loomed?]"
"[Don't laugh?]"
You nod.
"[The shape of your belly-button. It's less organic than it should be. When it's more squared than circular, that's usually a hallmark for an old or ill-repaired loom.]"
"[How do you know this?]" You question, shaking your head.
"[Well, y'know, you in--]"
"[No! About the oddly shaped belly button-- SEED have mercy. I actually said that.]"
Cephie giggles, "[Facechanger, remember? It's my job to create a detailed mask to wear.]"
You nod after that. Then -- "Are you wearing a mask right now?"
Cephie smiles at you with sharpened teeth, looking up from her plate. "Are you?"
Neither of you answers the question. Instead, you rise to find one of the Thornton drug peddlers to accost. Cephie approaches him, gesturing for you to go around the other side. When you're in position, Cephie wraps an arm around his shoulder, leaning in close. "So, buddy, what type of stimulants you have fo--"
"Look, Emma made all this stuff free for everyone. No need to threaten. I've got [methylenedioxymethamphetamine, lit MDMA], [amphetamines], a [tetrahydrocannabinol] blend -- "
Its Cephie turn to cut him off, "Bug oil?"
The man pauses, squinting at Cephie. "That will cost you."
"Charge it to Lady Pheonix's account -- and we'll take--"
You and Cephie approach the makeshift dancefloor. You, embarrassed and concerned, while Cephie is confident. She directs you gently. Move this way, shift this way, do this, hold here -- and it isn't long before you're enjoying yourself while dancing to the thrumming bass of some random track. A gaunt, skeletal man flicks something on the datapad, and the music shifts--
--you lean on Cephie as you watch the two Voidmarines step foot into a full ring. A blond Family-Woman laugh, standing between the two. The twins from earlier step out of their armor, flexing, and boasting. With an air of practiced bravado, they shove at one another, until they receive two shots of [vokda]. They lock arms, and each toss back the other's shot. With a step back, their armor seals around them. One bears a Red [lion beast, great horned feline] design on his breast, while the other bears a Blue design of the same on his.
The woman hurries out of their way, and the twins take a swing at one another in their armor.
[33 vs. 18] The crack is deafening, as Blue slams his gauntlet hard into the torso of Red. The armor creaks, but Red grabs his opponent's hand as Blue tries to strike him again with a savage uppercut. He twists down, pulling his brother to the ground and stomping on the arm-joint with a sickening pop.
[9 vs. 14] The two haphazardly wrestle with each other on the ground, until Blue twists and swings a fist hard into his brother's sensor array. Then Blue is on top, striking at Red with brutal blows that dent the suits' metal. Whenever Red manages to dodge, cracks form in the ground below.
[21 vs. 32] Blue keeps up his relentless flurry of blows until Red finally taps on the ground. "See!" Blue booms over to the blond lady, "I told you I was a better figh--"
[40 vs. 28] Red's arm twists back, and he slams his fist into Blue's torso with a sudden burst of energy that sends his brother out of the ring. "And I said I was! You're stronger, you dumb bastard!" Red calls after his brother, laughing. Blue stumbles out of his armor, growling, and Red does the same.
The fight between the two operators is a little less exciting. Gone are the cataclysmic forces that they wielded before, as, without the armor and technology, they are little more than augmented humans. However, the crowd of SEED and Family folk find it amusing and exciting -- that is, until the blonde drags the two out of the ring with a giggle.
[11] Cephie gives you a sudden shove, and you trip into the ring. But you are the epitome of grace and elegance as you arrest your momentum and straighten up.
[5] Eric steps into the ring, with a grin--
...
...
...
The earth spreads out below you, the red and gray rock twisted by the weather into shapes that no computer could genuinely simulate. Your head throbs with the weight of your intoxication, and you feel -- odd. Two figures follow you -- one with wings of fire and one with wings of black-- but you pay them no attention, no second glances. The moonless night hangs heavy with beautiful stars, the entire galaxy twisting itself out before you in the sky's void. At this moment, you are not Pheonix. Not your Ancestors. Not your Line. You are Pheobe Gainer --
..and I am f-free...
...
...
...
You eat breakfast in Cephie's ship with Emma and Cephie herself. Quietly. Emma eats a porridge, flavored with eggs and bacon. Cephie is eating some abomination of a sandwich made from ground meat, the patties bloody and rare. On the other hand, you pick at a bowl of 'stir-fried rice,' trying to tame your writhing stomach.
"We have to attend Service." Emma finally breaks the silence. Cephie gives a nod. You, instead, plant your face on the table and heave a sigh.
"Tell them I'm dead." You grumble.
"Because that will work out so -wonderfully- won't it." Emma snarks, shaking her head and passing you by. She musses your already tangled hair as she leaves. Cephie sniffs, itching at her nose and rising, "I need a shower. I still smell like a bug."
...help me get out of this... You plead to yourself as you're left alone. Should I break my leg? Pretend I tripped?
Post by: ZBridges on July 27, 2020, 12:52:28 am
Willfully negate the effects of the hangover.
Post by: King Zultan on July 27, 2020, 09:09:48 am
Post by: Eschar on July 27, 2020, 09:27:19 am
...and could we use it, in extremis, to prevent Plague possession? Kill off any nanites inside us?
((In the meantime, we're gonna pull a Jessica Atriedes and will these intoxicants into submission. Amusing.))
Post by: VoidSlayer on July 27, 2020, 10:37:50 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 27, 2020, 03:38:16 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 27, 2020, 07:09:01 pm
How much fine-grained control does the Interface has?
...and could we use it, in extremis, to prevent Plague possession? Kill off any nanites inside us?
We had to do exactly that once before, in Rodstadt. It's not foolproof, and there's certain damage left by such infections that only time can heal... but it's a great deal better than nothing. We'd have lost ourself without it.
Good morning!
Try a Healing Surge-- shower off last night's oils-- see if it helps? It'd be problematic, shirking the service held in your name... if that's what you need, of course, we can try and devise an excuse for you. We can try.
No breaking of limbs, I should think.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 27, 2020, 09:23:43 pm
You drink your fill before you start scrubbing the oil from your skin--
You and Cephie emerge from the lander into the chaos of the landing pad. The Pirates, the Familia, and the most loyal of SEED are scattered haphazardly across its' entirety. Some are still unconscious, while others stir to devour the breakfast buffet line. Eric waves at you from the buffet line, a huge bruise across one side of his face. The 'Red and Blue' twins are lounging on one of the couches, tangled in a blanket with the blonde. Murdach, you notice, is also unconscious, but still within his armor. Bottle after bottle lays at his feet, as well as what you vaguely remember as drug dispensers.
Cephie sneezes, rubbing at her nose. "Emma says we can meet her and the rest of your retinue at level zero. In like...fifteen minutes" You nod, stepping forward to the buffet line -- you pause when you notice masonry on the floor-- and glancing up, you realize there's a voidmarine shaped crack in the landing pad ceiling.
You don't question it, opting instead to fill up on starches. Eric steals a seat across from you, "Going to be honest with you, Mother Pheonix, that was the most human I've ever seen you act."
Post by: ZBridges on July 27, 2020, 09:29:03 pm
"I can't really remember it. Did we fight?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 27, 2020, 09:32:44 pm
Suddenly, Eric is stiff, straight-backed, his emotions suppressed. His willpower coils tight around him like armor.
Post by: ZBridges on July 27, 2020, 09:36:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 27, 2020, 09:54:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 27, 2020, 10:01:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 27, 2020, 10:06:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 27, 2020, 10:08:37 pm
You smile and dip him a serene nod, leaving your meal unfinished as you rise from the table and move to the mentioned meeting point.
[20]...my only friends are Cephie and Emma. And...do they even count as friends? William I guess too, but...it's nothing important. I just...
It's nothing. I've a war to win and a galaxy to conquer. Friendships can wait. Its not like I'll ever be able to trust them anyway. Everyone wants something in the end.
Post by: ZBridges on July 27, 2020, 10:20:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 27, 2020, 11:27:40 pm
Isela, perhaps. Eric, if not for his zealotry.
...
It was... a joy, to see you as yourself last night. Unburdened. Phoebe Gainer.
I have sought in past, to identify people you can relax around. You deserve such closeness-es as mere dust elders cannot offer.
Post by: ZBridges on July 28, 2020, 12:08:05 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 28, 2020, 12:40:41 am
Just-- he's a believer. His faith has meant everything to him. The last time we disturbed that faith... it was a near thing. A near thing.
Eric would be a wonderful friend. He's one of the few people on this rock who's struck me as well and truly trustworthy. I just don't know how to go to "friend" from "god".
Post by: ZBridges on July 28, 2020, 12:52:22 am
Also, sparring could be an activity that would allow us to bond with him.
Post by: King Zultan on July 28, 2020, 06:36:05 am
Post by: Eschar on July 28, 2020, 09:42:55 am
Everyone wants something in the end.
See, this is why I don't trust or particularly like Cephie.
...don't tell Cephie I said that.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 28, 2020, 10:45:05 pm
The elevator door slides open, and you step out into your 'level'. William, Isela, the Ministers, and Emma lounge comfortably in the waiting area. Emma, however, rises, directing you to your bedroom. "I was just informed -- the Khagnate has sent a emissary to view the service and meet with you after. The Council has prepared an outfit for you."
"That is...abrupt."
"Mellone told me he just arrived."
You sigh, stretching as you drift into your bedroom.
What...is this?
A long-sleeved tunic hangs from your door, ornate with gold thread, dyed with oranges and reds. A crimson capelet with a jade brooch hangs over the shoulder with the sleeve removed. It comes with a pair of black silk leggings, and you note with a scowl that there's far too many laces down the sides. A long, dangly belt falls from the waist, a sash of blue with intricate golden stichwork.
"What is this, Emma?" You call, sharply.
"An Outlander gift from the Khagnate. We of course, modified it--"
"Why is it so orange- is it even my size?!"
"It might be a bit small--"
You eye the fabric, frowning.
Do you wear what has been provided for you? Or choose something else?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 28, 2020, 10:52:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on July 28, 2020, 11:09:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 28, 2020, 11:20:33 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on July 29, 2020, 01:03:54 am
Turning down a gift is rude, but maybe you want to a be a bit rude?
Perhaps if you do not like the leggings choose something in your own style that matches the top.
Belt is nice though. Maybe just grab the belt and capelet with the brooch and pick something else that matches them better.
Post by: King Zultan on July 29, 2020, 03:56:55 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 29, 2020, 11:30:39 am
"Damn." Emma murmurs.
"Pay up." Cephie giggles, as credits exchange hands.
The services drag on, as they often do. You sit in the front of the crowds but keep your distance from them and the center stage. Instead, you try your best to look imperious, listening to them preach and pontificate. You hear them call out sinners and heretics, those that would deny you. Then theres the lessons about health and wellbeing.
You find it amusing that the scientific data shared is about the damages of alcohol on the liver and the damage of other drugs on the brain. You feel like Minister Sterling is trying to say something.
You rise from your chair during one of the recesses, stretching your long limbs and heading out the door, when Minister Mellone intercepts you. The council is waiting for you.
You stride into the chamber, taking your place at the head of the table, and sit patiently until the emissary enters. Stocky, with thick muscles, a long reddish-brown beard, and dark eyes. His outfit is of wools and leathers, and a long, bone-handled knife hangs off his belt. His guards are dressed the same, except for the las-guns at their shoulders. Your bodyguards quietly, tensely consider them as they enter.
"Greetings -- It is a gift to be met with on such short notice, Pheonix of the Holylands. May I present the emissary of Khan Samkrend: [Khudal, lit falsehood, prank, fool] Of The City Clan."
Khudal is younger than his announcer, and dressed in lavish cashmere, with insect silks and well-tooled leathers. Tall, dark-skinned, with a cold, calculating stare that finds you in an instant. His hair, unlike the others, is pitch black.
"[What a poor reception.]" Khudal complains to his herald in the Outlander Tongue while smiling at you. "[Why do we seek to ally with these priestly paupers?]"
"Khudal says you are truly masters of hospitality."
"[And she isn't even wearing the gift -- too freewilled, I would think.]"
"He says you look wonderful in the silks of the Outland, your highness."
"[Ask her what she might offer us, if we were to ally, besides too many mouths to feed.]"
"Khudal wishes to how an alliance would be beneficial? For both of us. In your own words."
Isela and Mellone look uncomfortable, but hold their tongues. Emma frowns quietly.
Post by: ZBridges on July 29, 2020, 01:47:20 pm
Smile. "Have you seen our armaments? This is a shield belt that neutralizes incoming fire. Would you like to see a demonstration, alongside some of our weapons?"
If he says yes, get one of the Voidmarines to put on a demonstration of military might.
Post by: Superdorf on July 29, 2020, 02:09:23 pm
...my question is this.
What are we willing to offer these people? Our technology is potent, but the Void-gear is in short supply; we haven't enough to properly outfit our own Crusaders, let alone the armies of another polity.
We could offer our military aid, perhaps, towards the consolidation of the Khaganate?
Post by: ZBridges on July 29, 2020, 03:15:03 pm
Don't forget that we have tens of thousands of credits earmarked for planetary development and weapons manufacturing. If we somehow averted war without an alliance, the Outlanders would shortly become irrelevant anyway, as they do not have a connection to the larger galaxy, which we can use to purchase weapons and mercenaries.
Their influence and strength will wane while ours will wax. This is their last chance to avoid irrelevance.
Post by: Superdorf on July 29, 2020, 06:06:56 pm
"It is too often that two rising powers find themselves at war. An alliance will allow us to avert a costly conflict and ensure both our nations' continued prosperity. In addition, the Khanate would benefit from our advanced technology. In just a few years, we will have the capability to enter the Void and explore other worlds."
Smile. "Have you seen our armaments? This is a shield belt that neutralizes incoming fire. Would you like to see a demonstration, alongside some of our weapons?"
If he says yes, get one of the Voidmarines to put on a demonstration of military might.
+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 29, 2020, 09:39:21 pm
You stand in one of the new gardens that fill the Fortress. Young plants sprout through rich, black dirt. 'Red' and 'Blue' approach, their loose jumpsuits are hanging undone. The Voidmarine suits follow loyally, coming to a stop, and Khudal eyes the machine up.
"I'm Ethan." The twin with the blue crest gives a bow.
"Finn." The twin with the red crest follows his brother's lead. "[We're assigned as your bodyguards, Patches. We're also to convert to your local religion to smooth over diplomatic ties -- people consider us 'demons'.]"
"Fantastic-- would one of you be so kind as to put on a bit of demonstration for the Emissary?"
"Dibs!" Ethan calls, and Finn scowls but waves him away.
To your surprise, Khudal removes his jacket, then his coat, tossing them to the Herald. One of his soldiers presses a knife belt into his hand. "[Tell her I'll test her 'demon' first hand.]" He explains calmly, strapping the belt around his sinewy waist. You take a moment to appraise the wiry man and are unsurprised by the lean muscle he bears. What does surprise you is the five jagged scars across his side, and the twisting, raised flesh of an old burn across his right pectoral. He smiles at you, and in perfect Scholar's tongue, "I am not afraid of fire, Pheonix."
[20] You listen intently as the Herald draws near the Emissary. They speak in hushed and quiet tones, but you are close enough to hear. "[Prince-- you cannot be--- demon ---]"
Khudal says nothing, directing a glare at the Herald, then ticking his head to you. "[Get me permission to play with her toy.]"
"Khudal--Khudal wishes to...wishes to spar with the...Eh-than being."
Post by: ZBridges on July 29, 2020, 09:58:31 pm
"Of course, but please try not to kill each other. If one fighter wishes to withdraw, let them go and do not press the advantage."
Carefully watch the sparring. If things get too heated or dangerous, use our aura to stop the fight.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 29, 2020, 10:14:35 pm
"[Heard. Firs' job is an execution.]" Ethan snarks.
Post by: ZBridges on July 29, 2020, 10:16:14 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 29, 2020, 10:21:18 pm
"Khudal insists...until...until first blood?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 29, 2020, 10:22:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 10:37:57 am
[18 vs. 20+3][18] Ethan pushes forward suddenly, bringing the combat knife around in a wide arc. Khudal steps out of the way, to one side, then lunges to slam his knife into the 'head' of the armor. There's a creak as the knife gets stuck. The Outlander rolls away. He rises, drawing out another blade as Ethan straightens up.
[4 vs 13+3] [19] Ethan lunges again, but Khudal dodges, and with all his might shoves the Voidmarine to the ground. Ethan sprawls into the dirt. He tries to rise, but Khudal is fast and slams a knife into the sensor array again. With a twist and help from the other blade, it pops off, hanging by the wiring harness.
Khudal draws back, breathing hard as the Voidmarine turns to face him. With the primary array gone, another set open on Ethan's armored torso, popping free of the hard carapace to focus on Khudal. The Outlander gestures and another knife finds its way to his hand
"[I'm impressed savage.]" Ethan spits.
"[I am not, [demon].]" Khudal returns.
[16 vs 15+3] The Voidmarine moves fast at that, and savagely slices at Khudal, who barely dodges out of the way, scrabbling and falling into the dirt. Khudal pulls himself away from the machine as it begins to bear down on him with savage intent-- Khudal's knife shatters on the chest plate. He pulls himself to his feet, and one of his men throw him another knife.
"[You do not bleed.]" The Outlander states, rising to his feet.
"[Jus' noticed, huh?]" Ethan laughs, the two circling. Ethan, despite his clear advantage, is tense.
[8 vs 12+3] Khudal gives a bow, but the knife shifts within his hand-- and, with a twist of his muscles, he flicks it through the air.
But not at the armored Ethan, instead at lounging, defenseless Finn. The knife thunks into his shoulder-- he yelps. Blood begins to drip from the wound as he pulls it out, rapidly rising at the threat--
"You BASTAR-" Ethan growls, starting forward-- until Outlander guns are drawn and leveled. Not at him, but at the ring of Crusaders that surround you.
"First blood." Khudal turns his back on the enraged Voidmarine to bow to you. The only movement is from the medics attending to Finn.
A ragged sigh escapes from Ethan's speakers, then. "Clever. We never said who's blood, did we?"
"An apt metaphor for war, isn't it, Pheonix?" Khudal questions, in perfect Scholar's tongue. His guards lower their weapons, and yours do the same. "No matter how strong you are, how invincible your armor, your technology, there's always a weak point. A flaw. Usually someone completely defenseless. Do you understand, young [queen]?"
Then, back in the Outlander tongue, "[I know you can speak my language. I prefer it to the Scholar's. Let us converse without our courts.]"
Post by: King Zultan on July 30, 2020, 11:31:49 am
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 12:03:59 pm
"[I must admit, that was an impressive display. You are a prince of the Khanate?]"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 12:48:51 pm
"But yes, as my good friend revealed far too early in the game, I am Rekhyt Samkrend, Third-born of Khan Samkrend. It's a pleasure to meet you...?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 30, 2020, 12:54:02 pm
((Others add more if needed. I’m assuming the question mark means he wants our name))
Post by: Superdorf on July 30, 2020, 01:26:16 pm
Might as well choose for yourself the name you'd like these folk to know you by. Phoebe Gainer? Phoenix-of-Sol? Fire-Blooms-Flowers?
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 06:02:38 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 30, 2020, 06:04:01 pm
"I am <name here>. It is a pleasure to meet you at last, Prince Samkrend. Tell me truly, in private. I will keep your words in the strictest confidence. Is the Khanate really willing to ally with us? Our people have a long and contentious history."To confirm, this is in the Outlander toungue, right?
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 06:04:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 06:46:45 pm
"As for that..." Rekhyt frowns, "I'm going to get down to the rivets of the matter. You need laborers. We need technology and expertise. Alliances only last between family. Anything else we would be expected to betray."
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 06:50:45 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 08:33:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 09:34:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 09:49:47 pm
"The specifics shouldn't be a concern. The Outlands will not bow to you. The Holyland will not bow to us." He smiles, pausing at a water feature studded with lily pads and bright blue algae. "It would be difficult for you to rule the thousand clans. My father doesn't even try. Give it small changes, and perhaps in a hundred years, you will be looking at a planet unified in culture and religion. Not the same -- no culture remains the same, but change is good, isn't it?" He kneels, examing a small plant. "A good ruler plants trees that they will never sit beneath."
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 09:53:26 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 30, 2020, 10:03:33 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on July 30, 2020, 11:09:31 pm
Show him the barker, explain it is a pet.
Ask him about the lands nearby that you may want to acquire that belong to other clans.
I am worried about trusting a culture that can not hold to bargains outside blood ties though. Seeing such as a bonus in a deal is fine, but to have such a culture of betrayal. Perhaps they are pushing hard to get you to agree to more then they would accept in a negotiation stance.
You hold a great deal to your relations and it seems would die for them. Even Emma and her brother now, despite the strain between you. It is a noble trait but be cautious about who you put that trust in.
Post by: Eschar on July 30, 2020, 11:10:19 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 11:28:35 pm
"Of course. I never expected such a monumental agreement to be made so quickly. I would think you a fool." Rekhyt rises, approaching you. "My father still wishes to meet you. Still wishes to speak to you. Outlanders...find limits." He takes a step forward, smiling. "I suppose that's why SEED pushed us to the margins, isn't it? Too many questions. Too many limits found."
"Is that why you pushed my limits as Khudal?" You question, tilting your head. "To try and rouse my anger?"
"I am not afraid of fire, Pheobe. Why else would I seek you out of my own volition? Do you think my father sent me here? That my government supports me? That I'm anything but a fool?" He shrugs, pacing down the path pass you. "Consider your choices carefully, is all I recommend. One god to another."
Post by: ZBridges on July 30, 2020, 11:32:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 30, 2020, 11:45:04 pm
"Gods are a creation of man. Among some of the clans, I am held as divinity. My father moreso. Was it fate? To our uneducated, to those without will, yes, because they cannot grasp the thought of personal agency in the affairs of the world. The smart amongst us know that divinity is given by those that worship to those that have reached out into the world and pushed their limits. Show the clans that you will push your limits. Show them that you are the divinity you claim to be."
"What do you wish from the Outlands? What is it that you wish to gain? To hold, to grab, to seize?"
Post by: Eschar on July 30, 2020, 11:57:02 pm
Post by: ZBridges on July 31, 2020, 12:37:30 am
"Power to bring the Plague to heel. Safety for those who I protect. New life to bring to this pale ghost of a holy fortress. The wisdom to wield sovereignty, and the will to enforce it - the will to protect this sanctum, this refuge. To rise terrible and triumphant from the ashes of a broken holy city. To wrest dominion and this world from the maw of the ravenous Plague."+1
Post by: Superdorf on July 31, 2020, 12:41:19 am
Sigh. "To understand that, Rekhyt Samkrend, you must understand the scope of the war I fight."
A show of will now. Writhing fire, swift and sinuous to mark your words.
"I'm not of this earth. My enemies aren't either. There's an apocalypse coming on this planet, and a conquering army like no-one here's ever seen: an army of void-soldiers like the fellow you fought earlier, led by a [demon] with power far beyond my own. Twelve years, and they'll be on us-- meanwhile, the Plague prepares a horde fit to scour us all. Our land, then yours."
"It's fallen to me to beat back the coming storm. I move to unify this world-- to preserve us all, as best I can."
Post by: ZBridges on July 31, 2020, 12:43:06 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 31, 2020, 12:54:32 am
It's... a brash move, I'll grant. I will accept "not yet", if you feel it necessary (or at Phoenix's own discretion).
Post by: ZBridges on July 31, 2020, 01:15:18 am
Post by: Superdorf on July 31, 2020, 01:33:24 am
Consider my words retracted.
Post by: King Zultan on July 31, 2020, 04:38:01 am
+1"Power to bring the Plague to heel. Safety for those who I protect. New life to bring to this pale ghost of a holy fortress. The wisdom to wield sovereignty, and the will to enforce it - the will to protect this sanctum, this refuge. To rise terrible and triumphant from the ashes of a broken holy city. To wrest dominion and this world from the maw of the ravenous Plague."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 31, 2020, 11:06:51 pm
Post by: Eschar on July 31, 2020, 11:11:51 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on July 31, 2020, 11:23:16 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on July 31, 2020, 11:38:24 pm
[1 vs 7] You break before he does. You take a step forward, then another, suddenly reaching out and grabbing at the collar of his undone jacket. He doesn't flinch as you twist the fabric tightly in your hand and lift. Your hand shakes as the knuckles go white. "No. I hate this. I hate having these people too afraid or to-- I didn't want this."
"But you saw a problem? You saw something that you wanted changed -- and you still see something. Something you cannot let go." Rekhyt questions. You slowly give a nod.
"All the people who...who expected me to fight, to protect, to do my duty," You spit the word, "They--"
"Did nothing. You're here of your own choice. Of your own agency. You're powerful enough that you don't have to be here, aren't you? Could anyone really stop you?"
"...No."
"Remember that. Even if it seems like an illusion, you always have a choice. Win your war -- will your people be upset with you if you left them afterward? Or do you want to be chained here forever? Do you enjoy your own suffering?"
"Why are you doing this?" You snap, tightening your grip. Rekhyt lets you.
"I am one of your prospects for marriage, Pheobe. Would I be a good husband if my spouse suffered?" Rekhyt laughs. "Oh don't look so shocked, you must have realized my intent by now." With a shove, he pulls himself away and straigthens up. His eyes narrow slightly. "This is silk, by the way. Do be careful."
"You could become Khan with my support?" You guess.
"Of course not-- I'm not even the spare. But tell me -- who holds more power? You, or Emma? The one on the throne isn't always the one who rules. But, I digress. Enough philosophy and enough of my poor lecture on power. What do you think of my proposal?"
Post by: ZBridges on July 31, 2020, 11:48:02 pm
Post by: King Zultan on August 01, 2020, 06:44:32 am
"Hmm. I will consider it. Let me see your people and your homeland first, so I would know what I'm getting into. I'm flattered by your interest, however."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 01, 2020, 08:03:30 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 01, 2020, 02:19:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 01, 2020, 05:31:17 pm
Probably bringing both would be good, as one can point out things the other might not notice+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 01, 2020, 07:36:45 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 01, 2020, 07:37:24 pm
Regardless, our retinue composition is not information I particularly care to offer Prince Samkrend.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 01, 2020, 07:46:24 pm
Cephie. Mellone. Nicole. Maybe the Thornton siblings, and a void-soldier or two-- those twins, say.He probably knows due to the diplomatic talks Emma arranged
Regardless, our retinue composition is not information I particularly care to offer Prince Samkrend.
"You know my Council well. How?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 01, 2020, 08:01:03 pm
"Spies." He admits, bluntly. "Many, many operatives at various levels."
Post by: ZBridges on August 01, 2020, 08:19:17 pm
"My consort will come with me, but I will leave my retainer here to oversee things. Minister Mellone and Mother Nicole will come as well, with a couple of bodyguards. That should be all I need."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 01, 2020, 11:53:27 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 12:00:17 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 02, 2020, 06:20:42 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 02, 2020, 12:17:12 pm
With a nod and a smile, Rekhyt turns to take a look at the garden. "We have gardens like this at our palace. I'll show you when you visit. I will take my leav--"
The heavy double doors swing open, and in strides William. His face is a mottled purple, but he gives you a grin and a wink. Behind him, two Warmachines, by chains, drag in five black-bagged individuals in various states of injury. Clothes ripped, with burn marks and minor lacerations. The smell of blood hangs heavy in the air. "Ah! This must be the Emissary!" William gives a bow, rising with a mocking grin as he takes a step forward. "I would apologize for interrupting what I'm sure was an intimate moment of quiet contemplation and diplomacy, but unfortunately, I found some trash on our doorstep, and figured it should be returned to its owner."
Rekhyt looks over the group with a raised brow, and he speaks in the Scholar's tongue, crisply. "Well. This was unexpected. All of my intel suggested you were nothing but a drunk and a criminal, William."
"Oh, I am. But it wasn't like I needed that much help--"
"William-- explain." You order, sharply.
"These fine individuals are the ringleaders of a Outlander spy network. I didn't pick up the pawns, because it wasn't worth it." William smoothly returns. "As you are an angel of Mercy, what better mercy than to return these people to their owners?" He shifts, reaching into his coat and drawing out his pistol. "Unless, of course, you wanted them executed and disposed of."
"You proved your point, William." Rekhyt concedes.
"No, I haven't--" William strides forward, coming face to face with Rekhyt. "Do you know why I don't have any spies in your shithole, tin-pot empire, Emissary?"
"No."
"You. Are. Not. Worth. It." He turns to you, flicking the safety of his pistol off. "Dead or banished, Pheobe?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 01:10:24 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 02, 2020, 01:30:27 pm
Post by: Eschar on August 02, 2020, 02:44:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 02:53:32 pm
Post by: Eschar on August 02, 2020, 03:44:24 pm
Post by: Hotfire90 on August 02, 2020, 03:51:39 pm
If we let them go we should tell Rekhyt that we're doing it as a favor to him and that we expect the favor to be repaid.
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 04:11:44 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 02, 2020, 04:49:04 pm
She's middle-aged, and missing fingers from her hand. When she spots Rekhyt, her eyes go wide. She makes a muffled whimper, trying to pull away from the chain --
[17+3 vs. 18, 11] -- and in a flash of steel and bone, his knife dances across her neck. She crumples, choking on her own blood as William starts forward and grabs at the Outlander Prince.
[1] "Outlanders owe no favors, Pheobe." Rekhyt doesn't move, and William, after a moment's pause, releases him. Rekhyt uses the black bag that was upon her head to wipe down his blade. "Release the rest or execute them as you see fit."
[18] Your anger threatens to bloom forth into a firestorm, but you contain yourself. "Who was she, William?"
"An ex-Crusader turned Scholar secretary in the Ministry of State." William coldly explains, leaning down to check her pulse. "She was too clean. No drugs, no affairs, enjoyed walking and chatting. I figured she was the [kingpin]."
"She was. A very, very expensive piece in the game." Rekhyt sighs as he slips away his longknife. "Ten years my father cultivated her. Sorry for getting blood in your garden, Pheobe. Let it be known I took no joy in that. But I cannot abide by failure of that magnitude."
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 05:10:03 pm
"Fine. William, exile the surviving spies. Rekhyt, I will see you in the Outlands. Try not to kill anyone else while you're inside the Holylands."
Post by: Superdorf on August 02, 2020, 06:38:24 pm
I'm inclined to burn the corpse to ashes in a silica urn, right here, right now-- a little show of what we're capable of-- but there's a question I would ask first.
Sigh. "Angel of mercy, Prince Samkrend. That title means much to me."
"Have your people funereal customs for such a one as this?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 02, 2020, 07:07:31 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 07:10:41 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 02, 2020, 07:39:32 pm
Soft words-- will in the voice. "You'll not mind, then, if I-- tidy my garden."
Incineration. An urn of glass, to contain what remains.
"I will not weep for the death of a traitor, but in these lands we have laws. As a guest in this realm, I ask that you abide by our law that prohibits murder."+1
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 09:46:08 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 02, 2020, 09:46:58 pm
Why bother? We already cowed him with the Voidmarine, and he probably already knows from his spies what we are capable of.this is a good point
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 02, 2020, 09:58:15 pm
I hope you do not mind if I show him what a true man-made god looks like?
[19][13] Your wings unfurl themselves with a flash of light, but you vent the heat away into the rafters where it can safely dissipate. You take a step forward, towards Rekhyt and the corpse. You gesture towards the woman's chains, and the Warmachines quickly release the body. They back the other captives away a safe distance. Fire dances at the tips of your fingers, burning hot with condensed hydrogen.
Rekhyt stands in stunned silence, and you stare at him, expressionless.
"I wish to tidy my garden, Prince Rekhyt."
You do not need to carve a section of the wall to create a dias, but you do it anyway, casting it into the center of the room. You tick your head to William, who kneels down and comfortably lifts the corpse onto it. You concentrate your fire there, incinerating the remains until there's naught but a fine layer of ash and bone fragments. Rekhyt looks ill, but you and William are quite accustomed to the smell of burning corpses.
"[It reminds of] Rodstadt." William remarks softly, in high Empyreal. "[Our failure there.]"
"[It reminds me of many failures, William.]"
"[You owe me a drink for making me miss that party], Phe-Phe. [I know a nice bar. Illegal. Quiet. Owned by an old friend.]"
"Maybe."
[14][12] You take a step forward, and, after some thought, you shape and twist the stone to entomb the ashes. You trap a hydrogen molecule here, a bit of water and ash there. It's not quite as detailed as you had hoped, but on a small plinth of rock, shaped from glassy, shiny silicon, it is a pistol and a pen. You'll have to modify it later...
"I will not weep for a traitor. We have laws in this land. As a guest, you are to abide by them. Murder is not the same as a lawful execution."
[3] "And Rekhyt?" You turn to face him, and your rage boils over as you step close to him. You stop the careful updrafts protecting him from the heat of your blazing wings, and sweat beads on his skin instantly. "If you kill any more of my people - I will treat you as a threat -- and I will show you why you should fear my flames, Prince."
[15 vs 18][14] Perhaps he sees it as a challenge rather than a promise because he draws on you, his knife a gleam of silver. He doesn't attack. With a grin, you lean forward, and, with a trick of theatrics, you blow burning hot fire on his knife, keeping the heat from burning his hand. Steel melts rapidly, and the blade drops to the ground. You straighten. "You are dismissed, Emissary. I will see you in the Outlands."
Rekhyt's lips quirk. Then, he turns and strides out the door in silence, casting aside the bone handle.
When it slams shut, after the Warmachines take the captives outside, William laughs. "That was hot."
"Oh, my [gods] that pun was awful, William." You rub at your face, feeling your anger cool. "Was it too much?"
"[Gods] no. Well, maybe the Ancestors will have something to say, but I thought you did well utilizing your power. Maybe get Cephie to teach you some acting and theatrics?"
"Maybe."
"So, drinks?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 02, 2020, 10:11:06 pm
Did you guys uhhhhhh interrogate them first?
Post by: Superdorf on August 02, 2020, 10:46:32 pm
Drinks at your discretion, godling-- you've surely earned as much, after that little display! 'Tis an elder's joy, to witness the awe you strike in people.
(You shall have to tell us of that haircut sometime, [father/mentor].)
Spoiler: <queries> (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on August 02, 2020, 11:21:10 pm
Go to the bar with William.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 02, 2020, 11:39:39 pm
Spoiler: 'Gods' (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Precious Mineral Economy (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Culmination (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on August 02, 2020, 11:48:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 03, 2020, 09:28:29 pm
[1] "Wait." You tersely command as anger and frustration rises within. You reach out towards the walls again, carving away the stone with your willpower.
[15][17] You burn away the impurities until the silicon gleams a bright silver. It twists and writhes in your mind's eye until you visualize the man. A body forms, clad in heavy crusader armor, made imperfect by memory. Captain Zachary McKinney kneels faithfully before you once again, a cutter hilt stuck into the ground in supplication. The details are not as strong as you would like, but the name underneath provides all the explanation the statue needs.
Regret threatens to consume your fire, but you tamp it down, and the emotion dies again.
"He was a good man. Loyal. Faithful. All those good things." William offers, quietly, "But regret Can't bring back the dead," and, with a dark chuckle, "Trust me, I've tried."
You nod. Then, in silence, you walk to the elevator.
You pull on the heavy hooded greatcoat, and William rolls up and folding the empty sleeve for you. You give him a smile, before strapping the gas mask to your face. You tuck your hair into the hood and dip him a nod. The two of you walk through the Fortress.
[19] Stalls line the street, selling meat and other items. Pawnshops seem to be the most prevalent, a wide variety of luxury items on sale. Children laugh and play while adults work to plant gardens. Murals line the walls, showing scenes from the mythological history of SEED, of streets and plazas of the Holy City. Great heroes sit in detailed landscapes, usually in some form of contemplation. The scenes, too, bare the mark of the religion -- cogs, steam, pipes, and brass twist into vivid natural landscapes.
[-] Something disconcerting is the amount of fire and blood that drip through the art. The heroes all have halos of fire. Campfires and candles break through the greenery. It creeps around the machinery, which, after pausing to inspect and compare, you find there is often more industry than nature within the works.
[11] There's a mural of you, too. You are clad in golden armor, wearing your wings of red-streaked fire and a halo of gold. You're carefully turned to avoid painting the missing arm, and you stare down at yourself without expression. Machinery, weapons, and cutters surround you in an ornate underlay. Candles lay at the base of it, and a bowl is filled with rations, flowers, and trinkets of cloth.
"There's a better one of you in one of the main halls. You're striking down a worm with a sword of light."
"Let me see it."
"Eh? Vain much."
You ignore him, following him down the elevator again.
[17] Your feet suddenly stop echoing on the tile of the floor as you stare at the mentioned mural. It fills an entire, unbroken wall. You fly triumphantly above a battlefield. One side is the Crusaders, led by a well-rendered Eric. He holds his cutter blade aloft, urging his men forward. The Crusaders look badly beaten, with many of them gravely injured, but they surge forth over the grassy plain with a zealous intensity that the artist captured well. William's Warmachines, their Thorns proudly displayed, loom over the Crusaders, using weapons as big as their brothers-in-arms.
On their opposite is the Plague, horrifyingly painted to capture their terrifying appearance. Insects swarm forth. They all charge out over a blasted wasteland—las-fire streaks through the air. Mortar shells blast into the Plague's ranks.
You hover in the middle of it, striking down a Colossus with your fire. The two of you twisting in battle dominates the scene—your wings of fire burn against the bright day. Blood pools from your wounds, as ichor, drips from the colossus. Its mouth is parted in a scream of pain as it dies.
You look over yourself and find your hair has been painted gold in this. Your golden armor is covered in blood and ichor and mud, but you shine with radiance. A flaming sword held in your hands burns through the beast -- but what draws your attention is your face. You do not wear the helmet like you did, but instead, it reveals your face stretched into a savage, joyous grin.
"They don't think much of me, do they?" You ask William.
"Do you want the truth?"
"Always."
"It's about why you're called the Angel of Mercy."
"Ah."
"They say its because it's only by your mercy they are not dead. One way or the other."
"They fear me?" You carefully question.
"Who doesn't?" William retorts.
"Do you?"
"Why do you think I bother working for you?"
"Hey! Michael! Two glasses of my personal stuff!" William calls as he claims a table in the corner of a poorly-lit room. The speakeasy is hidden behind crates in a warehouse, only accessible e by a carefully concealed door. You pause in the doorframe, staring at the man behind the bar. You hurry to William's table. Surprised to see the barkeep from the public house, back in the Holy City. He nods, pulling out a bottle of wine and pouring two glasses. He drops them on the table without remark.
You peel up your mask just a little to take a drink. The wine burns as it goes down, and you nearly choke. It's strong, very strong.
"[Ascended Wine?]"
"[Yes. Cephie owed me a favor.]"
Is there anything you should discuss with William? Or should you keep this a social visit?
Post by: ZBridges on August 03, 2020, 09:49:31 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 03, 2020, 09:53:23 pm
I've nothing too pressing for conversation topics-- just checkings in. How are the Thornton siblings holding up these days? Everything alright between them and their Line-instances?
...are they speaking to each other, the Thornton siblings? The last time we saw them together... t'was a tense moment.
Post by: Eschar on August 03, 2020, 10:06:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 03, 2020, 11:38:01 pm
"[All of it worthless.]" William smoothly replies. "[We fed him a lot of bullcrap. I'll leave that up to you, but I feel I do a pretty good job when it comes to these affairs.]"
"[Do you really think so little of our neighbors?]"
"[Yes. I do. But, as I said, that's your call.]"
"[Mmmh. Well, I didn't come here to simply talk business all afternoon. How are you two holding up?]"
[6] "[Fine.]" William sniffs, taking a gulp of his wine. "[We haven't spoke since that...discussion. But we'll get to eventually. I think.]"
You give a small, reluctant nod, but do not press. William tensed up with that question and his smile fled his face to be replaced with a rare scowl. "[How are you getting on with your Ancestors?]"
"[Mine don't really talk that much. I think I figured out how to mute Alphira, which was a joy to discover.]" William shakes his head, "[I don't know how you managed to deal with her for so long.]"
"[I have a lot of patience.]"
"[Liar.]"
"[You're right, I devoured her the first chance I got.]" You grin across the table, showing your teeth, before taking a dainty sip of your wine. "[She was more trouble than she was worth.]"
I think...Emma is doing okay. Last I saw her, she didn't seem too upset with me, or the situation. It...it was an awkward morning.
Instead, "[This is awkward to ask...but are you upset with me over] Emma [and I breaking up?]"
"[Oh, nah. I figured it would happen. You're both really young -- first loves never last. Considering there's an eternity of time for you two to make up -- I'm really not concerned.]"
"[Does she seem upset?]"
"[I think she's sleeping a lot better, one way or the other.]" William snarks, flashing you a grin.
Post by: ZBridges on August 03, 2020, 11:47:43 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 04, 2020, 12:41:28 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 04, 2020, 06:45:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 04, 2020, 06:36:26 pm
"[Wait, what?]" William asks, after a beat. "[I never thought you would be one to want to share the limelight.]"
"[Someone gave me the advice that I would need more practice.]" You explain. "[So, I would like to train with a group of people I trust. Each of you have strengths that I'm lacking.]"
"[Oh. I thought we were actually going to be fighting together.]" William gives a nod, "[I don't see why not. Who else are you thinking of practicing with?]"
Post by: ZBridges on August 04, 2020, 07:04:15 pm
Post by: King Zultan on August 05, 2020, 03:12:07 am
"Emma, Cephie, and maybe Eric."+1 Those all sound like the best candidates.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 05, 2020, 06:52:06 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 05, 2020, 06:58:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 05, 2020, 07:15:31 am
Post by: Superdorf on August 05, 2020, 08:14:58 am
No amount of help will amount to anything, when the time comes to face down that monster: either we'll be ready for him, or not. If not... well, I want to leave our scions with a way out. Safety in the Rim. The Empyre need never know they exist, if they so choose.
...
<Mnemonic query: how does the strength of a Cadet differ from that of a mainliner?>
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 05, 2020, 11:16:14 am
Spoiler: Potential and Cadets (click to show/hide)
William listens intently to your explanation, before prompting, "[And what of me? What do you hope to learn that cannot be taught by Eric?]"
You swirl the wine in your glass.
Post by: ZBridges on August 05, 2020, 11:27:19 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 05, 2020, 11:40:18 am
You feign innocence, "[I hope your customers get a discount with a face like yours.]"
"[Gods above, was that an attempt at wit?]"
"[I try. On occasion.]"
Anything else to discuss, or should you politely make your exit?
Post by: Superdorf on August 05, 2020, 12:07:51 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 05, 2020, 04:09:01 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 05, 2020, 05:07:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 05, 2020, 05:27:28 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 05, 2020, 05:53:36 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 05, 2020, 06:35:54 pm
Post by: King Zultan on August 06, 2020, 02:03:59 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 06, 2020, 10:57:56 pm
You drain your drink and pull the gasmask down. William gives a wave, offering, "I'll be around later."
The amphitheater stretches out beneath you as you cross over the catwalks. The masses are settling into their seats, with Crusaders and Guardians directing the steady flow of traffic. Near the front of the stage, you note the ministers and their families.
But behind the stage, Minister Mellone, Minister Lacey, Emma, and Cephie stand amid a heated argument. The twins stand dressed in Crusader uniforms, their armors at their back. The two manage to loom menacingly without effort, but they look confused.
The argument stops when the Ministers spot your approach. Mellone and Lacey bow their heads before Lacey launches into questioning.
"What is this, Mother Pheonix?" Lacey begins, "These [demons] say they wish to convert to our faith publicly!"
"That isn't important." Emma sighs. "We need to figure out how best to break the news -- these are our new allies."
"They are." You vouch, and Lacey gives you a slow nod of her head.
"I-...if even demons wish to convert...then I cannot...argue." She murmurs, reaching up to tuck the hair in her face back into her robe. "The...the people will be concerned. They will need soothing words, Mother Pheonix."
Post by: ZBridges on August 06, 2020, 11:43:23 pm
Gaze upon these figures, these two believers that stand before you not with animosity, not as malicious spirits, demons clad in the armor of hatred, but as mere men with hopes and dreams who, through the grace of God, are no different than the faithful gathered here today.
They were not always thus. In the distant past, these were soldiers of the Baron of Steel, inhuman demons that sought the demise of all we held dear. As we all know, the strength of these demons was so great that they were only stopped at great cost through the desperate struggles of our Crusaders, believers bearing the weapons of righteousness.
I have reached into the souls of our hated enemies, reached deep into their beings, and I have given them the gift of faith. I have transformed them, transformed the very essence of their souls from living evil into base humanity, and in so doing I have offered them the greatest gift we have to give, the gift of redemption.
In our holy mercy, in our sacred kindness, who are we to deny them this gift? Our ancient enemies have become our strongest allies, as we should never turn away those that wish to atone for their sins, even ones such as these who truly have so very much to atone for. Alongside our brave Crusaders, they will purge this world of the Plague and bring us justice for the loss of our Holy SEED.
This is the meaning of redemption. This is what it means to save a soul. Witness today the final step in their holy transformation and rejoice, for in Phoenix and in SEED even the most wicked can find hope and love. No one and nothing is beyond redemption.
Post by: King Zultan on August 07, 2020, 06:37:11 am
Post by: Superdorf on August 07, 2020, 11:28:42 am
Regardless, it may be worth discussing the words we intend to use with our councillors here before we speak. If nothing else, the twins ought to know how we intend to portray them.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 07, 2020, 11:12:55 pm
"And what would you like us to say or do?" One of the twin's questions.
"And I don't know why you don't expect us to receive a warm welcome -- last night we were the life of the party!" The other volunteers, with a wicked grin. The two of them bump fists.
"That was Family-folk," Emma explains.
"They have the moral strength of wet toast." Lacey snarks, giving a dark glance to Emma. "No true faithful of SEED would ever cavort with unblessed demons."
Emma nods to Lacey in support. Unoffended, "They really do."
Post by: ZBridges on August 08, 2020, 03:02:49 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 08, 2020, 03:21:41 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 08, 2020, 04:54:47 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 08, 2020, 06:32:09 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 08, 2020, 06:53:02 pm
Post by: Eschar on August 08, 2020, 07:02:47 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 08, 2020, 07:52:01 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 08, 2020, 08:24:25 pm
Ask Lacey what ritual would be appropriate for a conversion. If none is mentioned, try having the twins kneel during the speech, then have them stand and face the audience. Use hydrogen manipulation to gently lift them up after the speech, and then briefly produce a bright white light seeming to emanate from them that shines into the audience. When the light fades, set them down and create and maintain a glowing gold aura around them.+1
Thermodynamics ought to be easier for you than direct light manipulation, if it comes to it. Be prepared to play to what you know.
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 08, 2020, 11:28:23 pm
Just be truthful with that. These are distant relatives of the first champion and though weaker and strange they have decided to fight for the church or whatever your calling this little theocracy right now.
It is not what they are that makes them a demon but their actions. If they seek to aid the cause of SEED then they are kindred spirits or whatever.
I have seen where former foes face down the plague together when circumstances are right. These guys aren't even foes just.. unusual and untrusted.
Post by: King Zultan on August 09, 2020, 06:29:07 am
Our heir knows what she's doing.+1 This all looks good to me.Ask Lacey what ritual would be appropriate for a conversion. If none is mentioned, try having the twins kneel during the speech, then have them stand and face the audience. Use hydrogen manipulation to gently lift them up after the speech, and then briefly produce a bright white light seeming to emanate from them that shines into the audience. When the light fades, set them down and create and maintain a glowing gold aura around them.+1
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 09, 2020, 06:35:23 am
Uhh aren't we fairly sure McCreary was from the crashed ship? That means these guys are his family of sorts.Yes
Just be truthful with that. These are distant relatives of the first champion and though weaker and strange they have decided to fight for the church or whatever your calling this little theocracy right now.
It is not what they are that makes them a demon but their actions. If they seek to aid the cause of SEED then they are kindred spirits or whatever.
I have seen where former foes face down the plague together when circumstances are right. These guys aren't even foes just.. unusual and untrusted.
Post by: ZBridges on August 09, 2020, 07:10:28 am
...I say.>[NAME: Sadil of the Silicon's Rest, Mercrenary's Rest]
This is McCreary's vessel.
((Planet name.))
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 09, 2020, 07:36:53 am
((There's no evidence that that was McCreary's ship. The GM even corrected Superdorf when he made that assertion:))Oh, thanks for the reminder...I say.>[NAME: Sadil of the Silicon's Rest, Mercrenary's Rest]
This is McCreary's vessel.((Planet name.))
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 07:49:28 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 06:01:15 pm
Thank you.
[17][8 vs. 4+3] "Lacey," You begin, "Have you ever wondered or doubted about the Council? Why should a God need one? You can confide in me." You lace your words with your aura, pressing them into Lacey's mind with a twist of Willpower, inducing the compulsion for truth.
"Yes. I have had my doubts about the Council." She admits, concerned. "Why would a Good need to listen to mere mortals?"
"I am still young with my Divinity." You blithely assure. "The Guidance of Mortals is valuable to me."
"Ah." Lacey nods nervously. "I'm...I'm sorry for my doubts, Mother Pheonix."
"But, please remember, Emma is my mouthpiece. I trust her completely." Lacey certainly believes your lie, but you catch Emma's glance. "Could you assist me with the first rites?"
"Yes, Mother Pheonix." The zealot bows her head, breathing out a sigh. "I can conduct their first rites and acceptance into the Holyland. Please listen intently...?" She turns to the twins, prompting.
"Ethan [A2911+AB]."
"Finn [A2912+B]."
Weird names.
Lacey begins to direct them earnestly and quickly. She gives orders on their choreography with the air of a patient mother. The twins, after a glance to you, begin listening in earnest. Their demeanor shifts as they straighten from lazy slouches and take on an aggressive stiffness of which you approve
[17+1] You take a deep breath, in and out to steady your nerves. You stiffen your back, clear your face of emotion, and square your shoulders. You unleash your wings and strengthen the reaction, making them stand proud and tall. Then, the three fall in line behind you, and the brightness of your wings force their eyes to the ground. The armor moves to flank them, unbowed. With one last deep sigh, you step out on to the stage.
[11, 11, 6+1] You force your Willpower into your voice, and sparks fly as the sound booms through the auditorium. Not quite as loud, as you would hope, but all of the hundreds of thousands gathered here. Those in front look a little pale, but even those of weak constitution still sit upright, stiffening at your words.
"What does it mean to be redeemed? " You begin lifting the volume of your voice.
"Gaze upon these figures, these two believers that stand before you not with animosity, not as malicious spirits, demons clad in the armor of hatred, but as mere men with hopes and dreams who, through my grace, are no different than the faithful gathered here today." You pause after this to scan the crowd with a sweep of your eyes. At random, you fixate on an individual, before your gaze finds another.
"They were not always thus. In the distant past, these were soldiers of the Baron of Steel, inhuman demons that sought the demise of all we held dear. As we all know, the strength of these demons was so great that they were only stopped at significant cost through the desperate struggles of our Crusaders, believers bearing the weapons of righteousness." You explain, clearly, earning you nods of approval from some of the Scholars
"I have reached into the souls of our hated enemies, reached deep into their beings, and I have given them the gift of faith. I have transformed them, transformed the very essence of their souls from living evil into base humanity, and in so doing I have offered them the greatest gift we have to give, the gift of redemption."
[12]The projection of light is difficult, and Lacey would not be able to reach them if you lifted them. Instead, you create a halo of light and fire, igniting it suddenly. The brothers twitch, but then still as the fire dwindles to a rising light.
"In our holy mercy, in our sacred kindness, who are we to deny them this gift? Our ancient enemies have become our strongest allies, as we should never turn away those that wish to atone for their sins, even ones such as these who truly have so very much to atone for. Alongside our brave Crusaders, they will purge this world of the Plague and bring us justice for the loss of our Holy SEED."
Their glowing halos brighten suddenly as Lacey daubs their foreheads with black oil. The armors, kneel as well as Lacey steps forward to daub oil on their 'helmets.' They rise only to bow to you as their armors raise cutter blades of red fire -- in triumph.
"This is the meaning of redemption! This is what it means to save a soul! Witness today the final step in their holy transformation and rejoice, for in Phoenix and in SEED even the most wicked can find hope and love. No one and nothing is beyond redemption! Hail Pheonix! Hail SEED!"
[-] You do not even give the crowd time to react, turning away imperiously and striding off the stage.
[15+1][15+1][14+1] You can hear them cheer your name in return. You make sure you are backstage before you let a wry smile find your face. You extinguish your wings as you walk, and once again feel the uncomfortable burning sensation in your shoulders as you hide them away. An itch that is only relieved when you free them again.
Emma claps slowly, gently, "You're getting more comfortable with that."
"Thank you." You plainly state, giving her a weak smile.
"You want to talk to me about Probabilities, correct?" She gestures towards the door.
The garden is free of blood, cleaned in your absence. One of the significantly reinforced shutters is open on the side of the room. It lets you gaze over a valley as the plants drink in the waning sunlight. Pinpricks of stars dot the horizon. A fresh blanket of snow lies on the bottom of the valley, over a half-frozen stream. Stunted plants, withered by the cold, hang over its shiny surface.
"The Ancestors tell me I have some gift with Probabilities that even they lack. Perhaps they are trying to build my confidence, but your approach tells me that they may be telling me the truth. So, what answers can I give?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 09, 2020, 07:20:49 pm
"Is the manipulation of probabilities something that you can consciously control?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 07:33:13 pm
"Sometimes. Moments of clarity." Emma shrugs, then her lips quirk, "Let me explain?"
You dip a nod.
"Right now, I'm discussing the new form of government you want with Hoganson. Right now, I'm playing with Moore in this garden with you while speaking of futures. Right now, I'm walking at your side into the Outlander [Khagnate's] Palace. A hazy dream that shifts and turns -- clouded by motes of dust too small to see. Those are futures that are assured-- of this moment. Those are the futures that will occur. Details are blurry, but they come into focus in time as futures solidify and data is proven."
Post by: ZBridges on August 09, 2020, 07:43:40 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 08:09:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 09, 2020, 08:38:21 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 09, 2020, 08:51:20 pm
Tell her of the words you had with "Ashley"-- of the dabblings you've made already, in the wielding of trajectories.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 09:48:10 pm
Emma listens intently, quietly. With a rub of her face, she gives the nod. "That isn't quite...enough. You already have some instinctual ability, obviously, in combat, but you don't have full control over it." She leans into her radio and speaks quietly and quickly. With that done, she leans back, "I called in William."
"Emma." William coldly states.
"William. This is business." Emma clarifies, crossing her arms.
"Mmmh. Fine, fine. What's up?"
"We're going to spar."
"Alright." William shrugs, producing a rubber sword for both of them.
[15+2 vs. 7] William strikes at Emma while she's shifting into her stance. The blow makes the rubber creak, and Emma grits her teeth, but she settles into her stance and blocks another blow before it lands.
[19+2 vs. 11] Emma winces, almost dropping her sparring sword as William whaps her knuckles hard enough to leave a red bruise. Emma, however, grits her teeth, focusing on William.
[11+2 vs. 19] Almost experimentally, she blocks the next savage blow, and William dances back to look at her. Then, he charges in again.
...
[16] Emma's nose begins to drip blood, and her eyes gaze over.
...
[11+2 vs. 19] Her sparring sword catches in mid-air, and she blocks the blow. William blinks, confused, but continues to press in on his little sister. She blocks the next few feints the same, the rubber blades creaking against one another.
[20] Emma doesn't even look away from William's face--and she isn't also isn't looking at him. More like looking through him.
[11+2 vs. 17] The battle turns as she strikes harder and harder, finding the weak spots that William leaves undefended. William winces, as the sparring blade hits his tender stomach. Emma stabs forward, pushing him back as she takes steps forward, suddenly putting her more experienced and older brother on the defensive.
[1+2 vs. 6] ... with a sudden twist of her abdomen, and a step forward, the rubber sparring blade slams into William's face, and he hits the ground with a grunt. Emma stares down at him, eyes cloudy -- then stumbles back to drop to the bench. The blood still trickles from her nose, from her eyes. She wipes at it with a sleeve, explaining, "I had to force the calculations there."
"I...I think I want to try something with you. Alone." Emma states, glancing over at William, who rises with a grunt and gives a roll of his eyes.
"Fuckin' immature, you lot are," William grumbles, brushing at his bloody nose. "I went easy on you!"
"No, you didn't! You broke two of my fingers, and I'm going to have bruises for days!" Emma complains as she suddenly stands to shoo him out, "Get out of here!"
William leaves the two of you alone.
"I want you to try something for me. Think of the flowers at the Academy. The fields. Or maybe that copse of trees where we used to sneak out to."
With a raised brow, you do as she bids. Emma's willpower creeps out, gently coaxing at yours. Energy pulses along with it--
[20/18] Suddenly, you're looking at yourself -- no, Emma is looking at you looking at her in an old memory. You feel ill suddenly, as the love you once shared blooms hot and fresh in your chest. Emma breathes out a heavy sigh from beside you, a deep, ragged breath of pain -- of loss?
[16] No, of pain. Blood is dripping from her face as she wraps her arms over her face and hunches in on herself. Every breath is a ragged, heavy sigh of pure exertion and stress. I don't...I don't think I know how to do--, But the future spreads itself out for you. William is pacing outside, eventually he will get bored and gather Eric under pretenses for a sparring session with all of us-- no, not all of us--Emma, I will be too weak to do anything but wat-- Emma twitches. ...she watches you on a screen as the world explodes around you, and not a trace of you remains--defiant to the end--
[20] Whatever it was, the connection shatters, leaving Emma curled in on herself on the verge of unconsciousness. Blood drips from her face, staining her uniform and leaving her pale. Her breathing is shallow, and her breath catches as she speaks in a whisper. "I...I-- did I do okay? Pheobe? I'm trying. I'm trying. It all comes back to that. To death. To pain. On-one of the Ancestors taught me a poem...he called it a 'Rendevous with Death'...i think about it when I think of you and [gods] I don't want to think about any of this or anything."
Emma breaks down as you sit, paralyzed and shocked. Her tears mix with the blood of her bursting capillaries. With a quick exhale, she murmurs, "I'm fine. I'm sorry."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 09, 2020, 10:06:46 pm
[16] You shut your eyes, gripping the bench even if you cannot feel it within your hand. You listen for sounds. For Emma's breathing. For your own. At one point, you've stopped breathing, so you remedy that. You center yourself. Even if feeling doesn't return, Emma shifts closer quietly.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on August 09, 2020, 10:20:14 pm
Should we discuss plans to stop Magnus?
Post by: Superdorf on August 09, 2020, 10:26:02 pm
Pillowed in silk and scented down,
Where Love throbs out in blissful sleep,
Pulse nigh to pulse, and breath to breath,
Where hushed awakenings are dear--
--breathe, godling. Breathe--
--fo-00rgive us
---
<Mnemonic query: cohesion. What don't we know about it? How best to recover it?>
Post by: King Zultan on August 10, 2020, 06:29:08 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 10, 2020, 06:57:31 am
Spoiler: Cohesion of The Parts (click to show/hide)
You'll have to tell me it sometime.
"It is. A life for a life." Emma looks a little awkward when you hug her, but doesn't protest. "I dream about it a lot. How I nearly died."
"That...that happens. That's a recurring nightmare of mine -- how I nearly died before I Ascended...or maybe how Alphira nearly did." You twist water from the air, wetting your capelet to wipe away her dried blood. Emma weakly grumbles, but let's you.
"I always wondered about that." She murmurs, awkwardly. Eventually, she straightens. Retrieving a ration bar from her coat, she eats in silence. "William and Eric are here."
The door swings open; William, Eric and Cephie all enter the garden.
"Damn William, that's a lot of blood." Cephie whistles, her eyes fixed on Emma.
"I didn't do that." William shrugs. "She actually won."
"It was [Arithmetic] strain." Emma volunteers with a mumble, uncomfortable.
Cephie nods, while Eric just looks lost.
"I thought you said the council wanted to discuss strategy?" He questions.
"Yeah, I consider us Pheobe's secondary council. The regular Council is the third." William explains, not clarifying anything for Eric. "We're going to be sparring. Working as a team."
Post by: ZBridges on August 10, 2020, 03:30:26 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 10, 2020, 04:46:25 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 10, 2020, 04:54:14 pm
"Let's begin with some close range melee weapon sparring, one on one, perhaps while trying some probability manipulation. After a bit of sparring, we'll switch partners until every combination of combatants has been exhausted. At that point, we'll discuss the results and see where we can improve."
Post by: King Zultan on August 11, 2020, 04:51:37 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 11, 2020, 03:33:05 pm
"I can keep up." Eric grumbles, his lips curling into the faintest of pouts. "And it's just rubber swords."
"William broke three of my fingers and fractured my thighbone." Emma volunteers helpfully.
Post by: ZBridges on August 11, 2020, 03:55:16 pm
The idea was that manipulating probabilities would help us become more adept at using that power, through practice. As for Eric, however... I'm not sure how to integrate him into the session. Maybe we can do something to help him train his will? We did see that he can extend his will in similar ways to an Ascended.
Post by: Superdorf on August 11, 2020, 08:42:04 pm
...
...Eric is here to be tested: no more, no less. He took something from the Plague, in his days on the Defensive Line-- I want to know if he can wield it. He is of little use to us, if not.
As for the use of our powers... this little stick-fight is naught but a warm-up, godling. Take your fellow Ascended somewhere barren, when you're ready-- somewhere you can loose your will in earnest.
...
<Mnemonic query: training procedures of the Ascended, and of the Line of Sol. Old drills and schedules, such as the Void Slayer would have devised for me in youth.>
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 11, 2020, 10:00:58 pm
Spoiler: Training Regimen (click to show/hide)
[20]"Cephie, William?" You state, after some quiet contemplation of Eric. "Both of you will fight Eric at the same time. Non-lethal force, but if he spends another few months in the hospital, then so be it. Cephie, you may use your powers. William, do the same. No healing surge unless it's life-threatening. Don't hold back."
Eric swivels to stare at you in surprise. William and Cephie, however, are a little less shocked. They dip nods. William cracks his knuckles with a clank of metals, and Cephie twists wings from the earth. Eric frowns. Then, he nods. "I want a shield."
You arrange for one.
The two Ascended stare down at Eric, who rolls his shoulders. The heavy steel shield is strapped to his handless arm, and in the other, he wields the rubber sword. He glances up at Cephie, who's wings beat lazily over the sparring room, then backs down at the shirtless William. After a nod, he pulls on a Crusader's helmet, hiding his face beneath the gas-mask. "Ready."
[16+2 vs. 3+2/14] William surges forward with a savage strike as Cephie begins to fire dulled shots of carbon at the Crusader. Eric deftly blocks the projectiles, stepping to one side and slamming his sword into William's chest. William grunts in pain, but tries to catch Eric with a backhand blow -- he blocks it.
[18] You pay attention to his Willpower -- it dances across the battlefield, splitting its focus between Cephie and William. It beats with a rhythm -- that of his heart. It steadily increases as he divides offense and defense between the two Ascended.
[---17] William's willpower surges as his muscles twitch and bulge. He growls as he begins to lay a flurry of blows down on Eric. Lines of blood drip from William's ears -- no doubt he forced the command through.
[14+2 vs. 14+4/13] Eric grunts as he's struck across the head, across the chest, on his shoulder, but he keeps his shield up to prevent Cephie from drowning him in bolts of carbon. She twists one around him, coming from an unguarded area, but he steps smartly to one side-- even as William smacks him again.
[20] You feel a change in Eric's Willpower. It begins to tighten around him. You follow it into his limbs, into his bones, into his flesh. Ever the stoic, you are surprised when he growls a swear word—the rubber hilt in his hand creaks.
[19+3 vs. 13+4/12][5] A thick snare of carbon wire wraps around his ankles, rooting him in the spot. William takes the opportunity to step forward, but Eric breaks free with a twist of his legs. He steps into William's guard as the prince charges him, and slams his shoulder hard into William's chest. William staggers back even as Eric blocks a blow from a wild shard of carbon directed by Cephie's manipulations.
[13+3 vs. 9+4/4] Cephie's projectiles are more of an annoyance than a severe threat to Eric, as dull as they are. Whatever he doesn't block, he tries to dodge. Whatever he doesn't avoid, he shifts to try and take less of the impact-- William, on the other hand, continues to strike at him relentlessly. The rubber swords bend and twist -- until they shatter.
[20+3 vs. 17+4/11] Eric suddenly shifts -- and slams his shield into William's face. Blood splatters out across the floor, but Eric doesn't even glance at it. He grabs William by the neck, ignoring the prince's grasp on his wrist, and lifts the man. You wince as Eric slams him to the ground face-first--
He brings his shield down on William's back with a sickening snap that echoes through the area. William yelps, going still with a helpless growl. He tries to drag himself back into the fray even as Eric trudges away. With one threat gone, Eric turns to stare at Cephie through his mask--
"You aren't human anymore." Cephie muses.
Eric is silent.
"You're infected. Part of the Plague."
[15+3 vs. 16] A mass of carbon lashes out, scouring at Eric's flesh, but he stands steadfast, weathering the storm. He twists his shoulder back, his fingers loosening his shield--
[15] Eric's Willpower once again reinforces his body. You can hear his bones creak, his tendons strain -- the beat of his heart is hammering out a buzz-saw's staccato.
[18+4 vs. 19] A bolt of carbon slams into his head, and he staggers, but stays on his feet.
The shield launches through the air, a blur of steel, and slams into Cephie's chest. She grunts, her concentration faltering. She hits the ground with a thud, coughing horribly. Eric approaches--
[7+4 vs. 13][5] A coil of carbon twists itself around his ankles but shatters easily under his heavy steps. He reaches down to grab Cephie and --
"That's enough." You call.
Eric hesitates, his grip tightening enough to make Cephie wince -- she growls, and a spike juts from the floor to threaten Eric's center of mass.
He lets go of Cephie, as she wipes the blood from her mouth. Eric turns to face you, his gas-mask hissing heavily as he catches his breath. The Willpower falls away from his form, and he slumps beneath his weight. Blood drips from his scoured flesh, and he lifts his mask only to spit out a tooth. "Well, Pheobe? Do I have your approval?" He questions, voice dull through the filter.
William groans as he rises to his feet, and Cephie coughs up another bit of blood as her punctured lungs and broken ribs heal. "I...he caught me by surprise." She mumbles, rubbing at her side, "He's not human. That's for damn sure. I couldn't directly effect his carbon or calcium."
"He broke my fucking back!" William growls, "The fuck man!?"
"Orders were not to hold back or restrain myself." Eric dully notes, even as he sways. "And I've wanted to do that for a long time."
Post by: ZBridges on August 11, 2020, 10:51:03 pm
"Perhaps that display was a bit too much, but it was also extremely impressive. There is absolutely a place for you here, among us."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 11, 2020, 10:55:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 11, 2020, 11:02:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 11, 2020, 11:17:08 pm
Cephie steps over, kneeling down and pulling off his helmet.
[18] The man's eyes, what you can see of them through the bruising, shine with silvery black hues. The color is fading, returning to the plain, natural brown. Cephie frowns, looking up at you. "Eric is still a human. Well, we all are, but you know what I mean. His body doesn't posses the same structure as our's."
"Meaning? And how can you tell?"
"Meaning that he forced -human- muscle and -human- bone to withstand that stress. He's probably got hairline fractures in nearly every part of his body." Cephie explains, "As for the how -- his entire body right now is one giant bruise. He burst blood vessels and probably tore muscle fighting so hard."
The medics haul him away to the infirmary, leaving you with Cephie, Emma, and William.
Post by: ZBridges on August 11, 2020, 11:44:04 pm
"I'm sorry, William, and Cephie. Are you guys okay? If so, shall we continue?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 12, 2020, 12:03:31 am
You need to work out a plan to push William past just using his physical enhancements and to stop him from needing to force as much math. William has the warrior part down for sure but learning the true extent of what he can do is very valuable to any ascended. Maybe a controlled cohesion breakdown plan while testing his powers?
I do wonder if Eric can inspire the same willpower in others when commanding them. If he can learn to control it and spread the effect to others he would make a fine field commander for the mercenaries. I would suggest against ascension right now though for the same reasons as last time. I do not believe he is mentally stable enough to survive the process, too much of his self is dedicated to following orders. If that willpower is unleashed without self preservation in mind it could mentally cripple or physically annihilate him.
Post by: ZBridges on August 12, 2020, 12:20:12 am
Post by: Superdorf on August 12, 2020, 01:46:12 am
Spoiler: <queries> (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on August 12, 2020, 06:40:38 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 12, 2020, 10:16:32 am
Spoiler: Training (click to show/hide)
"You did well drawing out Eric's potential..."
[19] William and Cephie, you realize, perk up at that. The tension draws away from their frames with the praise, and Cephie shares a nano-feast with William. You let them rest as you pace, listening to the voices in your head as they consider how to train you and the other Ascended. After just but a few minutes, they look perfectly healthy, are bickering with each other over the fight -- both are laying the blame on the other. There's no real anger, so you do not intervene. No doubt, just relieving tension.
...it's...strange seeing this from the other side. How broken and beaten they were, only for them to be so perfectly fine just a few minutes later.
"...but next time you fight a mortal just make sure you win." Emma raises a brow from where she lazes on the bench at your cutting remark. Cephie and William are shocked but recover, giving a duck of their heads and a mumbled apology.
"Sorry, Patches."
"I will, Phe-Phe."
It seems the consensus is to train willpower in an isolated area? Is that correct?
Post by: ZBridges on August 12, 2020, 02:36:58 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 12, 2020, 09:12:48 pm
<I lay out for the others a montage of the memories I've called: images and ideas, describing the manner in which I learned my trade. The twisting of formulae-- the breaking and re-breaking-- power in madness, under the will of my [sculptor.]>
We all had our trials. We can call the old drills to us-- we can grind you to still higher fires, Phoebe. An ancient and fearsome power.
...'tis an ugly process. We attempt it at your own word.
Post by: ZBridges on August 12, 2020, 09:36:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 12, 2020, 09:38:19 pm
But the worse was yet to come. Through a combination of powerful hallucinogens, taboo arithmetic, and ascetic living, you ripped yourself apart and entered into the state of Resonance.
There, you were lost. Concepts of time, of existence, pain, and worry all became foreign. All became energy. All became arithmetic. All became concepts. You were held together only by the personality etched into the 'Dust', only by the memories you had saved.
You could, if you so choose, create a similar schedule to this. But there is no time for anything else -- besides training.
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 12, 2020, 11:48:00 pm
In addition I suggest putting the program together start to finish, using the computer on Cephie's ship and leaving one ascended out to monitor the process. This is because at certain stages two way contact with us can be lost and that advise may be useful in bringing you all out of the state or bringing out the most potential.
As to the question, this is less about how to use Dust as building up a stronger base on which to use it.
It would also put this whole empire building (farce?) on hold. I was rather enjoying watching this again but it should of course be what is best for the current Sol/Soul.
In addition, even at your best, can you hope to face Magnus alone? Would the time be better spent finding a way to Loom Eric a thousand fold and building an army of emo soldiers.
Sorry no direct advise, just a lot of questions.
Post by: ZBridges on August 13, 2020, 12:07:50 am
Also, that doesn't address the sudden change in my father's behavior. He has always, always said that it is too dangerous to have low cohesion, to do anything that would lower it beyond unfurling wings, but now he wants to follow a plan that will set cohesion so low that it will push Phoenix to "the edge of insanity." I am not criticizing; I simply want to understand.
Post by: Superdorf on August 13, 2020, 05:01:54 pm
I... wasn't sure identity recovery was possible before. Cohesion loss was something I sought to avoid at all costs-- indeed, something that I deemed avoidable.
It's not, is it? Not if we expect our heir to take on the Plague, the Nobility, and survive. Only by "the triumph of Will over Reality", can such a thing be done. She'll fall apart, training or no training, if she can't learn to maintain identity-- the "I AM"-- within and despite that triumph. The only way out is through.
I'll not suggest we commit to a "regimen from hell" just yet. There's a nation here to consolidate first, and a planet to scour-- but afterwards, when there's naught left but to brace for Magnus? It's... worth considering. In the meantime, we've a wealth of mnemonic information to draw from for these smaller sparring-sessions.
Do you have memory of Alphira's training days, perchance? The methods used for her forging would be more... apt, perhaps, than our own.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 13, 2020, 09:27:08 pm
You believe they focused on actual combat as opposed to training. You also remember several fights with other Ascended. Alphias, in particular, was relentless -- he never stayed down.
Post by: ZBridges on August 14, 2020, 04:29:04 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 14, 2020, 06:18:20 am
"Oh hey, she's back." Emma notes after giving you a glance.
You smile sheepishly as you rise and brush non-existent dust from your clothing. "The ancestors were talking."
"Adorable." Cephie giggles, "How you still listen to them."
"Hmmh. I've been Ascended for three years and I'm probably twice as strong -- maybe you should listen to yours more often." You wryly point out.
Cephie gives you a grin, "Maybe if I was one of the Old Lines."
The wasteland spreads out in front of you as you disembark from the hovercraft. The moonless night hangs heavy, and there isn't a cloud in the sky. You give a slight shiver as the cold effects you even through your homeostasis, even through your coat. William has brought sparring equipment, and Cephie has brought nano-feasts. You approximate that you have at least a day or two before you have to return home -- Emma will need to be back tomorrow.
How/what powers do you train? How do you train Emma, Cephie and William? Which powers do they train?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 14, 2020, 09:24:46 am
Post by: Superdorf on August 14, 2020, 02:55:09 pm
I can't do much towards the preparation of a training regimen for your compatriots-- we don't know what they're capable of yet. Test them. Find out what they can do. Find out where they can improve, and lend your expertise where needed.
As for yourself: you are skilled already, with the wielding of hydrogen and heat. I should like you to focus on other vectors today. Probability calculations; the prediction of trajectories. The manipulation and redirection of kinetic energy. The use of will to strengthen your hand, to lend force to your blows-- William can help you with that one, perhaps.
Beyond that: improvise. Extrapolate. Test yourself against the others, even as they test themselves against each other and against you. Draw from our shared memories-- from the remembrance of old wars. There are tricks there we've yet to consider, I imagine.
...Mind you set aside the Outlander silks before you begin. Wouldn't do to burn away their offerings in the fray!
Post by: ZBridges on August 14, 2020, 03:50:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 14, 2020, 05:46:50 pm
Train probability manipulation and will extension at low cohesion. Train Emma in strengthening her will. Train William in basic hydrogen manipulation. Train Cephie in shapeshifting into more foreign forms, such as into a Barker or inanimate object.why an inanimate object?
Post by: ZBridges on August 14, 2020, 05:49:34 pm
Post by: Eschar on August 14, 2020, 07:04:19 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 14, 2020, 10:28:00 pm
Combining mono molecular shrapnel with something like Slayer's Blade to make a high powered shotgun effect could be interesting. Learning precision and control of two elements at the same time would be a pretty good boon.
I would also suggest deciding what you want to train then push yourself to a physical and emotional limit of some kind to experiment with pulling your cohesion up and down at will, even if it is only on a smaller scale then a full training regime.
You will also need energy at least on the order of a true fusion reaction to create anti-matter. Finding a good way to control the radiation would be useful. I am assuming this is some kind of proton-proton chain reaction though so controlling high energy gamma radiation and neutrinos will be hard. Maybe figure out a way to do it far away?
Otherwise I would concentrate on bringing out William's gifts, he seems to be relying on basic body modifications, which, while powerful once mastered, can be a limiting area.
Post by: King Zultan on August 15, 2020, 05:39:44 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 15, 2020, 05:51:12 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 15, 2020, 06:18:51 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 15, 2020, 07:37:07 pm
Although if you improved your range with a flesh-relic network you could do the uncontrolled fusion near a cut off finger or something miles away.
Post by: ZBridges on August 15, 2020, 07:56:16 pm
Post by: King Zultan on August 16, 2020, 01:57:03 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 16, 2020, 02:24:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 07:22:16 pm
[9]
Spoiler: Old Lines (click to show/hide)
Sparring
"Three on one sounds like fair odds." You state, proudly. "You three against me."
Emma and Cephie exchange glances -- mutual distrust, while William is, as ever, eager to test himself. They comply. Emma and Cephie build their wings, while William pulls away from his shirt.
"Do you always have to do that?" Emma asks, with an exasperated sigh.
"Yes! Clothes are expensive these days." William explains sagely, "And a quarter of the Council's cloth rations go to Little-Miss-Everything-I-Touch-Burns over there."
"Point."
You awkwardly remove the Outlander silks and gently set them in the back of the Hovercraft, so chided by kindred both living and dead. Your shield follows.
With that business done, you unfurl your wings, feeling the ache of keeping them restrained fade as they bloom brightly into the night. You stretch and stiffen the math, feeling great comfort in the now-familiar problems.
You rise while the others huddle together to whisper to each other.
...
[11, 14][17, 11][19]
Spears twist themselves from the ground while a shield of carbon wraps itself around the three, hiding them from your sight. Willpowers twist within.
[11+1]
You bring forth a corona of fire, twisting it with your grasp. Your lips quirk --
[5 vs. 20+3]
The carbon shifts and a spear launches at you at high velocity. The blunt edge strikes your chest square in the center, winding you. You avoid another -- only to be struck by one that hurls into the exact spot you dodged into.
[17] You take a deep breath and try to see the probabilities of attack. The futures are blurry, clouded by a haze, but it does help you dodge one of the carbon spears.
[11 vs. 3+2]
You dodge out of the way of a flurry of spears, diving to striking at the dome. Your corona of fire burns away chunks, but more carbon reinforces it -- you've weakened it, however.
[||.]
[9 vs. 2+2][11, 15]
You manage to keep away from the suppressive fire of carbon by dint of observation and probability, and you dive once again. The carbon shifts to protect itself -- but you do not burn it. Instead, you Sunder the earth below it, ripping it apart. You hear yelps from within--
The structure shifts and weakens again.
[|..]
[15]
Having distracted those within, you pause. With another twist of your Willpower, you copy Eric and William. You reinforce muscle and feel your body stiffen. Your skin tightens around your bulging muscle--
[7+1 vs. 3+3]
You slam your fist hard into the structure. You feel the shockwave travel up your arm. You feel your bones vibrate and muscle strain -- but you succeed. The carbon shell breaks apart despite Cephie's attempt to reinforce it.
[4 vs. 6] [19, 10]
William and Emma get the drop on you -- a roaring fireball formed from both of their twisting wills strikes you in the face and sends you sprawling back. The shell rips apart --
[7 vs. 20][13]
The carbon flows into a tight net, slamming you into the ground. It tightens as it digs in and around, wrapping itself around your arm and legs. The cocoon tightens, and you hear bones creak. You gasp in pain --
William takes advantage of your incapacitated state. He launches himself out from the trio --
[1] Your fire harmlessly washes over him as his muscles bulge with reinforcement.
[3-5 vs. 8]
His fist slams hard into your face, enough to dislocate your jaw and send your consciousness fleeing.
Anger rises within, but you tamp it down -- they sense it, but William keeps you pinned.
"Clever. You baited me." You praise, after a sigh. "You built a trap for me -- Was it Emma's idea? Or Cephie's?"
"Mine, actually," William states, proudly, grinning as he keeps a booted foot on your chest. "I've fought by your side many times -- you're always too straightforward."
You nod, and the carbon falls away. William grins down at you, boot still planted on your chest.
[14] You twist a piece of silicon out of the ground, striking him in the chest and sending him sprawling. He laughs heartily, rubbing at his bruised chest while you shake your head. Emma extends a hand to help you up, looking awkwardly apologetic.
Cephie's Training
"Hey Cephie -- can you take the form of animals? Or an inanimate object?" You question, as the four of you rest from your former sparring. Cephie nods.
"The flaw with inanimate objects is that I still need to breathe—similar body-weight and size are my limits. Compacting myself down does awful things to my organs and metabolism. Conservation of Mass, and all that. "
"As for animals..."
[17][13][10]
Her bones shift and crack, and you watch with horrified curiosity as she falls to all fours. Her clothes change with her form -- and standing before you is a Barker of pure black, with gleaming red eyes. It is a little thin, but the shape is the same. It grins with wickedly sharp teeth.
[11][12][20]
Once again, horrifyingly, her forms shifts, as she straightens. She rises into a very tree-like form. Her skin is the color of bark and leaves sprout forward. She retains her eyes, her face, and the rough shape of her body. You reach out, touching her flesh -- and it even feels like bark.
"This is about the best I can do without -- well, killing myself."
"Well, practice that, I suppose? Could you alter your organ--"
"I am not doing that." Cephie interrupts. "One mistake, one distraction, and I'm bleeding to death."
"Fair point. Apologies."
[16, 11, 19]
Cephie returns to her standard form, slumping down into the dirt -- exhausted. She grins at you.
William's Training
William sighs, keeping a fire lit in the palm of his hand. You stand beside him, doing the same. He's having trouble keeping track of the math --
It flickers and dies.
"See -- I told you I'm no good at this, Phebe."
"That's exactly why you need to practice."
You leave him to it as he kindles another. Blood drips from his nose, and he wipes at it unconsciously.
Emma's Training
Learning to extend your Willpower and utilize it entirely wasn't something you trained to do -- it came naturally to you as you fought. Emma doesn't have that luxury, so instead, she sits patiently, pushing at the edges of her capacity with her Willpower, stretching and straining it.
You do the same, but a considerable distance away. Her will extends roughly a [meter] or two from her body. Your's, especially while you feel so odd, reaches a good thirty to thirty-five. However, it is currently inconsistent -- barely under your control. It withdraws and returns without you commanding it to, and it's difficult for you to command it otherwise.
Can Willpower even be commanded? Or is it purely a natural impulse?
You muse on this while you stretch and strain.
The others do not have your endurance. They rest by a fire with the Pilot while you stand far away in the wastes. Dawn rises on the flat plains of the Outlands, and you push yourself further down the path of your 'divinity.'
[10][18][20][3]
You bring a controlled fusion reaction to life within your hands. A bright purple light flows over you as you feed the incredible fires of creation. Molten beryllium drops to the ground as slag, and helium drifts free -- you try to contain the gamma radiation --
Your skin begins to blister and burn, and you feel ill.
You cut the reaction, trying not to vomit.
[16][8]
Next, you unleash hell.
The explosion is almost instantaneous. Energy flies away, turning the ground around you into glass as it scorches with the heat of hyperactive fusing hydrogen. The force almost knocks you back.
[17][18]
You force the gamma radiation and thermal energy away from you for as long as you maintain the blast, but it is exhausting. Light blooms out across the wastes as you light a star for all to see--
--and you lose control. The runaway reaction grows in pressure and heat as you try desperately to force hydrogen away from it--
--in the end, you manage to break it down, and the fire fades, leaving you exhausted and burned.
The camp beckons, but you deny the siren call of sleep. Two more. Two more.
[13][10]
You draw a blade of silicon from the ground, and, concentrating on the atomic edges, you pull and push until it blurs. You drag it into the ground, and it cuts away quite efficiently.
[14][8]
You summon forth the Slayer's blade, feeling the fire within your hand. You feed it the silicon, and it devours it hungrily.
You aim -- and the molten metal shoots out, spraying burning hot slag across the wasteland as an Inferno Shotgun would.
With that, you can no longer resist temptation. You get back to camp and collapse into a hammock in the back of the Craft, ignoring your Kindred's questions.
[12] You do not dream.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 07:23:27 pm
Emma returns to the Fortress after you awaken, leaving you alone with Cephie and William. You feel lethargic and ill from yesterday, and so you slack off. You command the two to pelt you with rocks and 'spears' to train your skills in probability and kinetic energy manipulation.
They take to the task with perhaps a little bit too much enthusiasm.
[-][-]
Whatever you don't dodge by assessing the trajectories, you try to transfer or redirect the energy. One of these tasks at a time is simple -- both at once are straining.
The day passes uneventfully, and the two grow tired. On the other hand, you are one giant bruise, but considering the strength of your Kindred, you've done well to redirect or dodge most of the blows.
Energy Manipulation: Kinetic Shield rank : Beginner.
The hovercraft returns for you in the evening, and you board it without complaint. It takes you back to the Fortress, where you shower, dress, and find real food. One of the larger hovercrafts is being loaded with provisions for your trip into the Outlands, and you passively watch while you eat leftovers from the banquet. They have you wearing an ornate SEED military outfit, adorned with the selected Outlander's gifts of silk. Emma wears a well-crafted dress and coat combo, with high boots, while Cephie is wearing the face of a stout Crusader. Ethan and Finn mill nearby, chatting up a Scholar. William lounges in his Family's uniform, sipping from a dirty bottle.
Nicole adjusts her preacher's robes, looking annoyed, but sits next to you to wait patiently.
"I know Sammy well." She begins, "I helped him in his rise to power."
You blink, nearly choking on the pile of noodles you were busily devouring.
"Training. Guns. Mortars. Organization. The works. He's been a project of mine for the last thirty or so years. Without him, however, the Outlands are an unproductive mess of chaos and raiders. With him, they've begun to resemble a society. One that can help us."
"That's--"
"Oh, treason. I know. But SEED was blind, " She whispers softly. "Ostracizing an entire group of its people because they wouldn't lick bootheels."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 07:24:36 pm
The Council gives you reports on the various projects you've commissioned. The process is made simple by the entanglement array, and through such, they can communicate with you during your flight.
Emma reports that they are finishing the construction of radio towers in each major city across the Holyland. They hope these can be used to reinforce rapidly in problematic areas. She blandly reads the estimate that it will take another week before they are entirely online.
She further reports that your demonic armor and Silas have holed themselves up in one of the lower levels -- they've kicked out many scientists and are working furiously on a project. While she was initially concerned, she hands you the datapad --
Spoiler: Silas' Message (click to show/hide)
You quietly curse yourself for not keeping the thing on a better chain but resign yourself to inaction.
Next, Isela reports on the expedition to the Ark. They've successfully breached the facility and are currently in the process of exploration. They reported in yesterday, so all seems fine so far. Eric is still in the hospital wing but is conscious. The process on refitting the ship is going as scheduled -- the Pirates have donated the time of several ship engineers. And guns. Many guns. Large guns.
Hoganson glumly reports on his work with the democratic idea you put forward earlier. He and Emma have hashed out a three power system -- the Families will have their own political body, the common folk of SEED another, and an overarching executive-legislative body, which is the merging of the offices of the Pontifex and Commander-In-Chief of the military. Of course, such work is going to take time, so its nothing more than a draft.
William, from where he sits beside you, calmly informs you that they're starting to rebuild the necessary Warmachine facilities -- but they will not be ready for production for at least a year.
Armssmith reports that they've found metal deposits that could be useful for trade and industry and have already set up mining camps. The trading post has also been finished and has increased the fuel economy of the Holylands immensely.
Zero sends a memo in silence.
Spoiler: Forbidden Technologies -- Reasons against use (click to show/hide)
After hours of travel, the hovercraft begins its descent towards a landing platform that juts out of the Outlander City. It stretches out for miles from the reddish-gray wasteland -- a collection of ragged tents and adobe houses. Markets fill every plaza -- grand stretching bazaars of hide and linen. Aquaducts reach out into the distance, bringing clean water from the hills to supply the bustling metropolis below you. Cattle graze in carefully appointed pastures on the outskirts, and golden grain lays broken and harvested nearby them.
A palace sits in the center of it all, surrounded by a very modern, at least by this planet's standards, military compound. Hovercraft lay waiting in bays, appointed with clan markings and anti-air autocannons. AA guns lay angled towards the sky, and you see the patrolling of mounted cavalry units through the city.
The palace itself is of red and white granite, and it reaches high into the sky with a great [prang] of glass and steel. Gold and jade decorations score the structure -- clan totems, you would guess. The structure dwarfs two other buildings, but those gleam with warmth, all well-appointed wooden beams, and billowing silk.
You stretch, straightening yourself up. Emma falls in behind you, and Cephie-turned-Crusader does the same. William slips his hands into his pockets and pulls his wide-brimmed hat down to cover his eyes in shade. Nicole steps in front of you-- but to the right, so as not to be directly in front.
The twins take up positions to guard your rear. Their great suits of armor forcing the deck plates of the hovercraft to groan beneath the weight.
The door opens on to a warm equatorial day. The humidity of the city providing a welcome relief from what you can only guess is the dry heat of the day. A tall, broad man in heavy robes smiles at you cheerfully as you disembark. Guards stand at attention, no two wearing the same armor or weapon. The man's eyes gleam with mischief and joy, especially when they alight on Nicole.
The Khaganate grins, and the two exchange a brief, friendly hug. "Ah, Nicole! When will you come and finally stay with me? You could be a queen!"
"A queen among savages is no queen at all, Sammy." Nicole retorts. "And please -- we're here for business."
"Ah, busy busy busy -- all you Seedlings are the same! Time for introductions, then." He approaches you, his dark eyes looking you over as he brushes pure black hair from his face. He dips himself in a bow -- you match him.
"I am Khaganate Samkrend, of the Samkrend Clan." The Khaganate states, serenely, extending a hand for a handshake. You shake his hand and give a brief nod.
"I am Pheonix of Sol -- Pheobe Gainer. God of the Holylands." You introduce yourself politely. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"The pleasure is mine, Pheonix!" Samkrend exclaims, "Now, come,"
He guides you to the edge of the hover-dock, pointing out across his city.
"Tell me, what do you think? It's [496 square miles]. The only city that was bigger, as far as I know, was the Holy one. Not bad for fifty years!"
Post by: Eschar on August 17, 2020, 09:16:27 pm
Considering that when we fell to earth we looked like little more than "a pile of meat," I'm pretty sure that we can regenerate fingers. Cutting off a small part of our body that we can then regrow seems like a small price to pay for infinite weapons of mass destruction.
What about regrowing our arm?
Who knows, Phoenix may wish to retain that wound as a symbol of what we went through to enable the Holy Citizens to escape Armageddon by the skin of their teeth.
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 09:21:18 pm
Considering that when we fell to earth we looked like little more than "a pile of meat," I'm pretty sure that we can regenerate fingers. Cutting off a small part of our body that we can then regrow seems like a small price to pay for infinite weapons of mass destruction.
What about regrowing our arm?
Who knows, Phoenix may wish to retain that wound as a symbol of what we went through to enable the Holy Citizens to escape Armageddon by the skin of their teeth.
That's a good point. It's not clear to me how and when our baseline changes.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 09:47:48 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 17, 2020, 10:11:04 pm
I think your city is marvelous.
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 10:17:00 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 10:18:21 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 10:22:18 pm
"It's very impressive. I look forward to seeing it and meeting your people."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 17, 2020, 10:39:12 pm
"Ah! I wish you to get acquainted with it as well, Pheonix!" Samkrend states, cheerfully.
Then he shoves you off the edge with a strain of powerful muscle. You twist and unfurl your wings in an instant, staring at him in surprise as the fire pushes against the air and keep you at roughly the same elevation.
"Goddess indeed!" Samkrend laughs, turning his back to you to walk away. Your jaw works as you bite back your anger -- but it takes a glance to Mellone to truly calm your fury. She shakes her head gently, her eyes pleading with you. You drop back down on to the pad, and follow him down to the lower level. The streets between the pad and the palace have been cleared for you, and your retinue and Samkrend's guards make your way casually down it, until you reach the Palace gates. Servants appear to show you your rooms in the guest palace, before directing you to a dining hall.
You take a seat on a cushion, across from the Khaganate. A firepit lays filled with smouldering coals -- the room is plain, unadorned. Filled with nothing but the cushions and stern guards. Two sullen indiviuals sit nearby him, a man and a woman, roughly William's age. Beside the man, Rekhyt lounges. He flashes a cheerful smile and a wave as you and your retinue settle into your seats.
"So, since you people are so busy, busy, I'm curious about something before I let you avail yourself of my hospitality. I mean to make war upon you if our alliance doesn't go through. Tell me, why should I form one with you?" The small tables in front of you are bare.
That's a bad sign -- no food means we do not enjoy guest rights yet.
"[The Holy City is in ruins, Father.]" Rekhyt volunteers, "[They do not have the industry to oppose us -- the Crusaders are spread thin]."
Samkrend nods, his dark eyes turning on you once again. The smile fades. "I owe much to Nicole, but not enough to give up such opportunity." Nicole, for her part, looks annoyed, but settles back in the cushion. You cross your legs.
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 10:44:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 17, 2020, 11:00:11 pm
Lots of work on this
((Shyeah, no kidding! Wonderfully done-- and uh, sorry to put you through that. :-X ))
That's a good point. It's not clear to me how and when our baseline changes.
We've been told that degradation of the baseline is tied to alteration of the identity. To such trauma as shakes one's perception of the self.
Thus, injuries with a certain emotional weight tend to linger. So too, those injuries that are left untreated long enough to engrave themselves in the subconscious.
Hm! Good day, Φοῖνιξ. Such fine fires you've cast, these past couple days.
I'm... confused as to what we'd accomplish with words of weakness. Are we offering sarcasm? Baiting war?
I'm half-inclined to just dispense with the subtleties outright. Fire and show. Assent that such a war could well hurt our people... but make clear but that the Khaganate would burn for it.
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 11:04:39 pm
Note what Rekhyt is saying, even though he knows better.
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 17, 2020, 11:25:32 pm
At the least I very much suggest you do not play weak.
But be honest about the technology you can offer. You could help them create a truly globe spanning nation. Possibly star spanning. With his organizing and your technology, his skilled army and your individually powerful people, you could easily crush the plague and build up.
Post by: Superdorf on August 17, 2020, 11:39:11 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 17, 2020, 11:46:39 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 18, 2020, 07:31:45 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 18, 2020, 08:54:40 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 18, 2020, 11:53:25 am
"We are weak. I doubt my Crusaders would be able to withstand your forces." You nod in agreement, not bothering to hide the sarcasm dripping from your voice. "But to be honest, I thought I would be meeting with a king -- instead, I'm met with a fool." You rise, brushing imaginary dust from your pants. Your entourage, after a glance, does the same, and you wrap an arm around Emma. She looks surprised but smiles, leaning into you.
"It's just as well -- I never wished to marry such a senile, old, up jumped warlord anyway."
That did it. The guards draw on you, but you pay them no mind, continuing to step out the doors.
"You insult me, Pheobe Gainer -- in my own home! [Guards! Open--]"
You raise your hand free of Emma and give a snap of your fingers. All for show. Your willpower lashes out -- and the las-gun reactors explode violently. All but one of the five you touch. Blood splatters across the floor -- William shifts, drawing out a pistol and lifting it towards Samkrend. Nicole does the same. Ethan and Finn step back into their armor and slam themselves into two of the nearby guards. The result isn't pleasant. Emma sighs dramatically, reaching down to flick something bloody from her boots.
"You've stoked her temper now, Samkrend." She mumbles.
"[You will not make it out of the Outlands -- we'll shoot you down--]"
Elders! I learned something interesting the other day! Granite is seventy percent silica! You cheerfully point out.
[12][16][19]
You snap your fingers again, and the palace shudders as you gently, so very gently, tug at the silica in the stonework and drag it towards you. You stop when the dust begins to drop from the ceiling to settle across the bloodstained floors.
"You can certainly try -- but Rekhyt is right. My Crusaders are weak. My industrial base is damaged -- that is the only reason I haven't burned you and your kind off the face of my planet. But my mercy has limits, old man, and you're testing them. My nation is weak -- but I am not." A fire sparks itself to life in your hands, "Threaten my loved ones again. Threaten my people again -- I will turn fifty years of your life to glass in a day."
Samkrend strokes his beard, glancing towards the las-guns leveled at his face, at the Voidmarines splattered with blood. Then, he nods. "I'm sorry." He bluntly states, "Your argument is persuasive. Come -- let us go and enjoy my hospitality."
You're tempted to simply leave. Rekhyt lounges with a faint smile, glancing at his humbled father with something approaching contempt. The older man returns his son's look, but his attention returns to you. Maybe this family should go the way of the Moores'...
Post by: ZBridges on August 18, 2020, 12:14:40 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 18, 2020, 12:25:57 pm
Let's see what sort of hospitality these folk have to offer. If you were to slaughter every backstabbing, power-hungry warmonger this planet throws your way... ha-hm. There wouldn't be much governance left.
Post by: ZBridges on August 18, 2020, 12:50:37 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 18, 2020, 10:33:57 pm
Quartz and feldspar, godling; quartz and feldspar! Lovely stuff, granite-- much nicer than marble, I've always thought. Less pretentious.
Let's see what sort of hospitality these folk have to offer. If you were to slaughter every backstabbing, power-hungry warmonger this planet throws your way... ha-hm. There wouldn't be much governance left.
We certainly wouldnt have a grandmother - ha!
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 18, 2020, 10:53:57 pm
You are guided into a much more ornate dining room -- and this time, you note, there is food already on the table under steamed over glass domes. Plates upon plates of food set upon miniature tables in front of lavish and comfortable silk cushions. A few children sit nearby, picking at their formal clothes or trying to sit still. Samkren politely introduces you to his children, leaving the eldest for last -- Bat is the eldest son; a muscular man that takes heavily after Samkrend. Atlan is his eldest daughter; a golden haired willow of a woman with cruel, dark eyes. Finally, he gestures to Rekhyt, and you actually pay attention, "And this misbegotten bastard is Rekhyt. You seem to know him."
Rekhyt smiles as he settles down across from you. "It's a pleasure to properly meet you."
[19] "Likewise, Rekhyt Samkrend. I'm told you've been giving William some trouble."
"Not as much as he's given me."
You then introduce your retinue in much the same way. Ethan and Finn give a mock bow, and William rudely begins to drink the liquor on the table. Emma smiles serenly, and Cephie-Turned-Crusader gives a dull grunt when you introduce her as Stephen. Nicole only rubs at her face, and Mellone stammers out a greeting in Outlander.
"Now come, lets enjoy our meals."
You take the lid off to find the plate piled high with dumplings filled with ground [beast of burden] steak, [root vegetables], and fragrant herbs. You take the offered knife, picking at the food and popping on into your mouth -- delicious. Its full of fat, salt, and flavor. The ground steak drips with delicious juices. You wash it down with the white beverage -- its a sweet, only vaguely alcholic drink. Thick and creamy. [Kefir], you think its called.
Next are small loaves of bread -- fluffy and rich. The Outlanders scrape the grease from their plates with them, and you do the same.
A chilled dish of yogurt is placed in front of you, sprinkled with roasted grains and drenched in...a syrup of some sort. Its warm, and filling, and sweet.You observe while using small, fried sweet chips to scoop away at the gelatinous solid. Mellone stares mournfully at her cup when she finishes, but lets the servant take the bowl away without a fuss. Rekhyt eats slowly and carefully. Samkrend's other children, and the man himself, devour the meal with enthuaisim.
There's a lull as the table is cleared, and Samkrend takes a sip of his liquor -- clear stuff. No doubt local [vodka]. "Lets figure this out between us. What can you offer us? And what do you want in return?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 18, 2020, 11:53:01 pm
"We have engineers, scientists, and a database filled with almost any technology you could ever imagine. We are your bridge to the future. If you continue without us, time will leave you behind, and this world will face the dangers of the Void without any ability to fight back. In return for our expertise, we ask to be an integral part of your booming economy, have paid workers for our projects, and that you contribute to a pool of resources that we can both draw from. We can be stronger together."
Post by: Superdorf on August 19, 2020, 12:12:32 am
In return... first and foremost, we need our land-deal with the Clans of Skarin legitimized. Everything else is optional-- negotiable. The land deal is critical.
Might be worth explaining the origin of that Pirate vessel, for context: its descent from the Void, and the revival of those who crewed it.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 19, 2020, 12:26:06 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 19, 2020, 06:52:30 am
Post by: Eschar on August 19, 2020, 07:29:58 am
I'm all for becoming friends with these people and them using our stuff and us using their stuff.
As long as they continue building with granite, of course.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 19, 2020, 11:07:39 pm
Samkrend nods, leaning back and crossing his fingers over his pot-belly.
"Better weapons. Better training for your soldiers -- our Crusaders are the most modern military this planet has. Besides that -- Scholars to teach and Doctors to heal. Scientists to discover and push our futures forward together." You continue, leaning forward.
"We need those, yes."
"But more importantly -- " You pause, grinning, "There are other worlds than this. Other planets filled to the brim with luxuries, gold, silver, jade -- technology. People. The Samkrend name could spread across the stars alongside me. Hundreds of thousands of worlds, trillions upon trillions of people would know of the Outlander's strength. Their cunning. Their prowess in battle."
Samkrend lifts a brow, "What proof do you have? Our philosophers make the assumption that this world is not the only oasis in the wastes, but why should we risk it?"
You gesture to Ethan and Finn.
[11][6]
"Uh...well-- uh..." Ethan stutters.
"We uh...we come from other worlds." Finn offers, weakly.
"There's loot a plenty out there, that is true. There's thousands of planets out there. We come from one way on the other side of the Void." Ethan finishes.
Samkrend seems unconvinced.
"Well, regardless, there's something poisoning this oasis of ours -- something we need to purge before it taints the entire planet."
"The Plague." Samkrend nods. "We've been having issues with that. I know it exists. That is a threat we should handle, yes."
"An Alliance would keep our knives from each other's throats until it is handled, at the least." You try to recover.
"And what do you want in return, Pheonix?"
"Land. Workers. Industrial aid."
"Land?"
"I owe the clans of Skarin land around their vessel." You explain the location, and how much land the Pirates are owed.
"That is a heavy dowry, Pheonix." Samkrend scratches at his beard, "But not one I cannot pay. Your terms are, for the moment, acceptable. As a goddess, you can have children, yes?"
You nearly choke on your drink. Emma's eyebrows shoot up. You hesitate after a heavy cough, trying not to flush. You consider a lie, but think better of it.
"No. I cannot and will not." You calmly reply, smoothing out your coat subconsciously.
"Then I wish for two marriages. The first to secure our alliance, the second to secure my bloodline."
"[A betrothel between one of his daughters and Moore Thornton could work. He's part of the ruling Family, after all.]" Emma quietly offers, nonplussed.
"[Hypocrite.]" William offers, bluntly.
"[Drunkard.]" Emma retorts. "[One future to secure peace. I doubt he'd mind much.]"
"[You did.]"
"[And it was better I did not, wasn't it? If I married into some random Family, I would not have met Pheobe.]"
Ethan, Finn, and Cephie all take the moment to very studiously look at their tables and plates, ignoring the sniped conversation between the siblings. Mellone and Nicole simply look confused. Samkrend waits patiently, his fingers resting on his stomach.
Post by: ZBridges on August 19, 2020, 11:18:17 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 20, 2020, 12:32:18 am
Once again, then, I must ask, before we take the guest-moot any further: how do you wish to proceed in this?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 20, 2020, 12:44:34 am
"The Thorntons have a child within their family by the name of Moore. He is...?" You hesitate, glancing to Emma, who holds up two fingers. "Two or so years old."
"I have a daughter of three. A betrothal can be arranged upon them reaching their majority. I will not consign my child to unhappiness, as I am sure you will not do the same -- you'll take her and a retinue at certain times. A Scholar's education is good for an Outlander. We will renegotiate if they are unhappy with the choice when they come of age to make decisions."
You nod, not letting the surprise you feel show. "And as for me -- I will not marry you."
"That was expected -- you are too young for me. Will you stay a while and select your husband or will you meet them on the battlefield instead?" Samkrend questions after a shrug.
Once again, you're surprised by the ease of the conversation, your brow furrowing.
I'll outlive any of them anyway, right?
Post by: ZBridges on August 20, 2020, 12:52:32 am
Post by: Superdorf on August 20, 2020, 01:15:00 am
I'm curious as to the nature of this "meeting on the battlefield". An old custom?
Post by: ZBridges on August 20, 2020, 01:23:16 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 20, 2020, 01:34:51 am
"A divorce spells war. A husband slaughtered in his bed spells war. A wife killed in jealousy spells war. We've learned our lessons through too many wars to count. Our ways are written in the blood of mistakes." Samkrend shrugs, "Besides, despite their...flaws. I do love my children. The younger ones, at least."
"On the battlefield? Is that a custom?"
"No. A metaphor. We will have to go to war. I trust my family. They learn command from any Ex-Crusader officer I can find. You would be surprised at how many live in the wastes."
"You learn from cowards." Nicole sniffs, interrupting.
"Not everyone can get the same opportunity I did, Mother Gainer. You taught me well." Samkrend laughs, but his eyes show no mirth. "I still have the scars of your discipline."
"And I, Child Damien, I still have the scars from the grenade you dropped in my tent."
"That was never proven, I may remind." Samkrend laughs again at her statement, and a wry smile curves Nicole's lips.
"Why are you so fixated on warring with the Holyland?" You question, interrupting the reminisce.
"Two Barker packs meet over the corpse of an insect. They work together or kill each other. Nations are no different, are they not? We work together or we fight. One of your philosophers say that war is the natural state of man."
Should I accept their offer? Stay and get to know one of the heirs?
Post by: ZBridges on August 20, 2020, 01:39:05 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 20, 2020, 05:45:49 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 21, 2020, 08:17:22 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 21, 2020, 04:58:59 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 21, 2020, 07:19:39 pm
Stick around, see what they're up to, and see if you can learn something.Agreed, learning is good
"Can you tell me about your children?"this is good too, so far, I think we only know names, sexes, and ages. More info would be good, such as behavior and personality, perhaps we can interact with them
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 21, 2020, 11:03:43 pm
"You did, but not in depth." You shrug, leaning back in the cushion, looking over the three siblings with an eye of appraisal. You note, with a ghost of a grin, that they are doing the same -- except for Rekhyt. He's playing with one of his younger siblings, teasing and tickling and laughing. Without a care.
Bat stands nearly [2 meters] tall. His frame is strapped with muscle and scar. His long black hair falls over a blunt face with a broken nose and a scarred jaw. He has his father's grey eyes, and they drift across you and your retinue equally. He shifts, uncomfortable with the attention -- and you note that unlike Rekhyt, the fine silks seem uncomfortable on his lumpen frame. He scratches his beard and dips a nod. "Greetings." Is all he offers, uncomfortably, his accent heavy.
Atlan gives you one look and tosses her golden hair over her shoulder, looking anywhere else. She's closer to your age, and it shows. But the way she holds herself reminds you of an unsprung trap. Tightly wound and tense. "Yes, Hello. How are you." She offers stiffly, before turning to her father, "[May I be dismissed? This bores me.]"
"[Show some respect.]"
"Bat is my firstborn," Samkrend begins to explain, wrapping an arm around his eldest son, "My first wife. She was the first woman I ever loved when I returned home. She passed due to illness after his birth, but I raised him right. I think. He's a good officer and a good soldier, right?"
Next, he gestures to Atlan, "Atlan my second born. Her mother is a fierce warlord in the north, with many allied clans beneath her boot. She spends much of her time there, in the land of [cypress]. She has her mother's fire, I fear." Atlan rolls her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Rekhyt is...his mother comes from the cities on the sea's edge." Samkrend's lips quirk, "They...they are a strange people. More like Holylanders than Outlanders. He's too clever for his own good -- and a [Trickster, approx. Coyote]. Sharp, but sharp things sometimes cut both ways."
Rekhyt waves politely when he's introduced, unconcerned, and he returns his attention back to the younger sibling. You notice a side glance from the young man, before his easy smile returns.
Post by: ZBridges on August 21, 2020, 11:56:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 22, 2020, 12:06:16 am
"Thank you." You offer politely, making to rise to your feet. "I've had a long trip. I would like to rest, if I could."
Samkrend nods, gesturing, "You know where your rooms are. Feel free to tour the city. I will provide our [currency] for you."
"Thank you." With a light smile, you turn and head towards the guest palace. Your retinue follows, and disperses in the grand hall. You pay no attention to the ornate jade carvings, or the smooth redwood floors, instead, you stumble into your bedroom and collapse into the soft pile of furs. You rub at your forehead and huff a sigh.
Why can't I just wipe out this city? Besides all the stupid innocents with their stupid right to live and stupid godsawful culture and--whatever. What is the plan for tomorrow?
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 22, 2020, 12:18:31 am
If this farce of a marriage really makes you so unhappy you could just burn custom and culture to the ground. But be prepared to need to rebuild everything.
But nothing is forever, once you purge the plague and defeat Magnus (look at me the optimist) we can renegotiate the deal with words or guns or propaganda.
Post by: ZBridges on August 22, 2020, 12:24:05 am
Maybe take a look at some of the temples to see if there is an Outlander god Phoenix resembles.
Post by: Superdorf on August 22, 2020, 01:52:28 am
Speak with your retinue tomorrow morning, somewhere away from prying ears. Hash out your options, both peaceable and warlike. Play the game, or break it-- do so with precision, is all I ask.
No interest, no betrothal. We couldn't force you otherwise if we tried.
Post by: King Zultan on August 22, 2020, 07:11:43 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 22, 2020, 11:57:53 am
There's a knocking at your door, and you rise. Crusader Cephie stands stiffly at attention, your datapad in...his? Her? Hand. "I figured you would need this, Mother Pheonix." She gruffly reports in a masculine voice.
It's eerie how good she is at this. You flash a serene smile and dip a nod. Cephie returns to her quarters after a stiff Crusader's bow.
You collapse back into your bed, flicking through the datapad's pages to find a vid series about a teenager living in a hive-city. The entire thing is stylized to the extreme, but you notice there is no drama with immense delight. There are no difficult choices for the protagonist to make -- and no painful mistakes.
You end up watching the series for three hours, quietly ignoring any discussion within your mind's depths.
Night is falling as the sky darkens beyond the flowing curtains hanging over the glass windows. You stifle a yawn of lethargy, rising to stretch and perhaps exercise when someone taps at your window.
[-] An Inferno flows into a halo behind you as you open the curtains, peering out to spot Rekhyt, who gives a cheerful wave. He clutches a roll of paper. You, on a whim, twist the glass out of the windows in a show of force.
"[Hello. Figured you might want to explore the city. I know a way to sneak out.]"
"This is a very blatant attempt--"
"[Oh, I know. Subtlety is for public, in my opinion. But tell me -- would you want to look at the city from the eyes of a traveler or a lord's? My father is going to post useless guards around you. Give you a guide that will show you all the perfections -- but that's up to you.]"
Your lips twist into a frown as you consider.
"[Plus, I've a map of my father's empire. A gift -- far better than silks or gold.]" Rekhyt waves the paper cheerfully.
"[I'm not interested in spending time with a psychopath.]"
"[Says the woman who killed six people this morning.]" Rekhyt's grin stretches as a devious light glances in his eyes. He raises a hand and snaps his fingers.
"...[[Touché]]"
"[I'm sorry?]"
"[Sorry, it means good point.]"
"Ah. [ Yes, it was. Well, what do you say]?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 22, 2020, 12:24:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 22, 2020, 01:01:48 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 22, 2020, 09:32:24 pm
Your reasoning is sound, but meaningless before your will to enforce your new goals. I am glad that you feel a duty to the people in general, it is the right thing to do. Even if it brought me pain again and again. I mean brings you... ha ha... alright.
Post by: King Zultan on August 23, 2020, 07:07:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 23, 2020, 01:32:29 pm
Surveying the city with Rekhyt.
Is that what they call it here? Have fun!
You give a flick of your fingers, dismissing the application with a small frown. Rekhyt is more interested in the datapad as opposed to your rapidly flushing face. You control the embarrassment and gesture him forward. But he doesn't move; instead, he reaches into his satchel and withdraws a long cloth hat. You don't hesitate, slipping it on and hiding your...unique hair color beneath it.
"Good. Next is the clothes." He withdraws a long poncho, tossing it to you. "Should cover the uniform. Keep you hidden."
You slide it on, and he walks around you, rubbing at his chin. "Hunch your spine a little. Not too much, but you're too stiff. You've a soldier's walk. Smart people can notice."
You try to do as he says, and Rekhyt only sighs. "That will do."
"I'm unskilled in sulking." You offer bluntly.
"You really are. You scream 'pay attention to me!'" Rekhyt shrugs as he sets out across the grounds, "You were probably a brat growing up, right?"
"I was very well behaved. Thank you very much!" You retort, balling your fist. "I know that my [Ancestors] think the same!"
"Ah, I apologize -- you're still a brat." Rekhyt nods politely, and just as you're about to call him out, he lifts a hand for silence, crouching into a nearby bush. You sit there in the foliage for a little while, until he rises -- then the two of you make a break across to a small stone gate. Rekhyt jimmies the lock open with a small scrap of metal, and the two of you slip into the breezeway, crouching as you cross the military section of the palace.
Finally, behind another locked door are the streets of the city. A guard doesn't even glance at you or Rekhyt -- he stares straight ahead. Rekhyt presses a small clinking sack into the Guard's pocket as the two of you pass.
You rest in an alleyway, and Rekhyt gives a nod, slipping his own hair into a wrap of cloth. He does the buttons on his vest and flips his sash inside out. "Right. Where to first, Goddess?"
"What is there to do?"
"Well, this is quite the city. Food vendors are on just about every street -- so are temples. There's a brothel on every other street. The Grand Bazaar is about a mile away. What piques your interest?"
"Hmmh...is there a temple to a god similar to me?"
"The Fire God isn't worshipped by many anymore. Only smiths and cooks." Rekhyt frowns, itching at his face, "She was popular ages ago, but has waned for more...Human Gods. With Flaws and struggles. The God of Money is the most worshipped."
Post by: ZBridges on August 23, 2020, 02:25:09 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 23, 2020, 02:35:44 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 23, 2020, 03:00:35 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 23, 2020, 03:46:47 pm
We should run that by Geoyde when we return.Agreed
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 23, 2020, 10:07:07 pm
I would recommend seeing the temple to money and go to the bazaar. See how these guys handle an economy.
Post by: Superdorf on August 23, 2020, 10:41:05 pm
Friend Khudal's playing the fool again, I daresay. Pushing limits, to learn where your limits may lie.
Post by: King Zultan on August 24, 2020, 08:10:48 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 01:19:38 pm
"How about the reverse? I need to exchange some bills."
You dip a nod, and Rekhyt starts across the lain brick streets. You trail behind. He guides you accurately, passing stalls where food vendors hawk their wares. Past beggars and 'guards.' Children play in the streets, chasing and playing tag with one another. Oddly, many of these children steer clear of you and Rekhyt. One makes to step close, but one of his playmates grabs the other child by the collar. A ghost of a smile dances across Rekhyt's face.
The streets don't have the clean layout that the Holyland boasts. You have to slip through many claustrophobic alleyway and abandoned building. When you and Rekhyt finally step out into the street again, a three-story granite building looms heavily on the horizon. A statue of an Outlander coin sits out front -- a curved triangle, laid with intricate curves and relief. Hollow channels line the edge--
"Did the symbol or the coin come first?"
"Symbol, but it got more complicated."
You nod as you enter the warm temple. The inside is the red sandstone that is so common within the Outlands, but its smooth and well-carved. Another of those coin statues lay on a high plinth --
That's...that's white nephrite jade. You stop in your tracks to stare at the shining white statue. Easily, you appraise, weighing a ton. It's carved with many intricate engravings and inlaid with gold, silver, and other shining alloys.
"You're drooling, Goddess," Rekhyt notes, coming to a stop next to you.
I...I...
"Ho-how old is that?"
"Mmmh...Recent. Thirty or so years."
"Ah."
...I couldn't tell you how valuable that artifact is, but I can tell you that it is expensive. Maybe twelve thousand or more credits? You pull out your datapad, tapping away at it—an appraisal app assists, giving you a rough estimate of [25,000 Empyreal Energy Credits].
Rekhyt snaps his fingers in front of your face, confused. "Something the matter?"
"N-No." You sigh, stowing the pad and rubbing at your face
Rekhyt shrugs, and you follow him to a small section of the main temple. Rough looking guards lounge here. They eye the two of you with constrained hostility. You cannot see the person's face on the other end of the booth, but a small lens set into the wall lets you know they can see yours. Rekhyt withdraws checks from a pocket --
"Can I see those?"
He nods, passing you one. You note they are made out to 'Khudal [City-Clan, Jester] for 'services rendered' by 'Rekhyt Samkrend.' The god of Money's sigil is stamped on it. You raise an eyebrow. He shrugs, then lifts an arm, displaying a small brand on his inner wrist. In an incredibly small script, you notice it reads [Khudal City-Clan]. Another of those curved symbols is marked beside it.
Jade and gold coins tumble out of the receptacle, and Rekhyt deposits them into a small pouch.
You walk out of the temple, passing by a group of devotees prostrating in front of the jade sculpture. "What's the Khudal thing about?"
"I'm the family joke." Rekhyt laughs, "An uplifted bastard with too much wit and agency."
"Isn't your mother someone important in the seaside cities?"
"Yes, but she doesn't recognize me."
"Why?"
"Because I'm not a woman." He gives you another grin. "They're a..." His lips quirk, then, in the tongue of the Holyland, "A Matriarchy." He shrugs, lapsing back into his native language, "They accept me as a pawn, but only after my father made a fuss about the alliance. Rekhyt is the name my mother gave me after. Khudal is the one I was given at birth. Both are insults."
>[Lapwing, Commoner.] You note, with a frown ghosting your lips and a quick search of your datapad. A linguistic coincidence, as it means the same in [Ancient Terran Egyptian]. "I'm...I'm sorry?"
"Why?"
"...I don't...I don't know."
"I am a fool. I am a servant. I've embraced it -- and now it doesn't hurt." He gives you a grin. "And I have wings now, so it all makes sense."
"I...I suppose. It just rubs me the wrong way."
"You spoke of [Ancestors]?" He pronounces the word in perfect High Empyreal, and you glance at him in surprise. "Is that parents?"
"Ancestors." You correct, and he looks confused.
"Is that what you call your parents?"
"Yes? It's...it's a god thing." You mumble, embarrassed, trying your best not to boast. "I never really had parents, besides them. They guide me with whispers, emotions, and plans." You tap your head, and then let your hand fall to your side.
"Fascinating. Does it get annoying?" Rekhyt doesn't judge, actually sounding intrigued.
"Sometimes. But without them, I would have died long ago. They're strong and old and -- "
"Comforting?"
"...yes." You finish weakly. Rekhyt reaches out, patting you on the shoulder.
"Taking comfort in having your parents nearby is nothing to be ashamed of, Goddess. At least they care." He laughs, cheerfully.
The Grand Bazaar fills an entire plaza and spills out into the streets surrounding it. A great cloth roof is supported by a number of polished red wood pillars. A fountain bubbles away within the center, lined by statues of various indiviuals. As soon as you enter, you're assaulted by smells, scents, and sights the likes of which you've never seen. Well, at least not in your own memories.
There's household goods, technology, guns, bladed weapons, spices, cloth, crafts both foreign and local, spices, minerals, jewelry, armor, animals-- you are lost in the immense number of stalls and sellers.
Rekhyt grins at you, nudging you in the ribs "You good?"
"I'm good. Just...I..."
"This city is prosperous. Only the Holy City was bigger. Thousands of clans and [cultures] and [nations] all travel to trade. Some say we're the center of the world."
"The Holyland was never this prosperous -- this vibrant." You explain.
"What can you expect from a bunch of stuck up priests and an overbearing god?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 02:25:43 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 04:31:38 pm
"Magazines and Ammo are also accepted for barter." Rekhyt explains when you question, trailing behind you quietly. He seems content with letting you explore -- and his presence seems to make others uncomfortable. The urchins that linger look pointedly away from you. Guards don't make eye contact. The Merchants offer him things of note and worth -- but they offer it to Khudal.
You approach one of the technology stalls, examining the wares.
Spoiler: Random Tech Stall (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 04:40:27 pm
Inspect the tube.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 04:45:42 pm
"Ah, do you have a console in need of repair?" The vendor approaches, a tall outland man with brown hair streaked with red. "I can fix them for you. Sometimes these [lit, sparkholders] don't work well."
"How would you tell."
"They are fragile -- I usually inspect them before purchase, of course!" He picks one up, and gives it a shake. It rattles loudly. He gestures, "This one is broken -- you can even see the loose part within. These are salvaged, but I have some freshly made."
"How do you make them?"
"I purchase from local craftsmen. They would know."
"What do you use them for?"
"Repairing broken Priest technology, of course. It doesn't work quite as well, but its cheaper than buying new -- especially these days."
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 04:51:25 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 24, 2020, 04:55:37 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 24, 2020, 05:11:38 pm
Be sure to get some exploring of your own in, once you're done poking through the machinery here! We elders are clumsy at such things-- you've noticed, I'm sure.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 05:16:19 pm
The gas masks range from simple contrapations of filter paper to the heavy-grade Crusader gear that is standard issue. "Crusader Gas masks -- good for dangerous caves or dust, or chemical weapons."
The portable foundry has an electric powered forge to heat small amounts of metals to process them into ingots. It has a blower to pull oxygen in or out, depending on the process. There's a sturdy anvil, another heater for shaping metal already in ingot form, a collapsible barrel, you assume for water or oil. It also contains a welding apparatus and a number of chisels, swages and dies, molds...so on. It also comes with a leather apron and a pair of protective lenses. Among the materials, you note, is a number of powders and chemicals -- "Barker, Crusader, and Insect ash and bone dust."
The solar panels range from [1m] by [1m] to an entire portable array with multiple connections. SEED technology, judging by the high quality and use of bioplastics.
When you near the mechanical limbs, the man grins wide, "A curios! A good friend of mine raided in the SEED lands. He slew a great demon there, and brought back the limbs." Your stomach turns when you reach down to brush away dust and debris -- the Thornton's Thorn is etched into the metal of a plated bicep.
"And this came from a friend -- a Priest was in the wastes and needed food. Clad in heavy robes, he traded this odd box for food. It clicks near places of bad spirits. Odd--someone left it on." He switches the clicking machine off, smiling wide.
"What do these spirits do?"
"They can cause sickness; hair loss, stomach -- some can rot the skin from your bones! Protection from them is incredibly important."
"Should I be standing so close to you?" Rekhyt grins, snatching up the box and bringing it close to you. "It says [low danger, limit exposure to ten hours a day]?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 05:20:39 pm
"A Priest... do you mean one of the peoples of the Holyland? Also, what is that auto-injector for?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 05:25:28 pm
Rekhyt glances from the box to you, then shrugs and sets it back down. The vendor walks back over to shut it off -- his pleasant smile never fades. Rekhyt turns it back on. The vendor turns it back off. Rekhyt turns it back on. The vendor gives him a pained look, and leaves it on to click through the conversation.
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 05:34:14 pm
"Thank you for your patience. One last question: what is that finger-length tube of hydrogen used for?"
Post by: Superdorf on August 24, 2020, 05:35:17 pm
<Ascended... aren't typically radioactive, are they?>
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 05:53:00 pm
[16+1 vs 18] Rekhyt pockets one of the tubes in silence -- a quick movement of his fingers to snatch it up, a twist to hide it within his hand and a smooth, natural movement to stow it in his pocket. "Fascinating." He states. "[Look, Goddess, he too is a god.]"
The vendor doesn't notice.
>
Spoiler: Radiation (click to show/hide)
You thank him for his time, and he finally gives you one sour look. The two of you drift through the market towards whatever stall might strike you or your Ancestor's fancy. You glance over at Rekhyt and notice him lighting a rolled tube of herbs with the stolen lighter. You lift your brow -- you didn't even see him stop or stray from your side.
"Did you bring another?"
"No. But -- " This time you watch him carefully as he melts into the crowd. He hunches down, and, with the easy grace of practice, shoplifts another rolled tube. He returns to your side and passes it to you. You grin despite yourself as he lights the lighter and cups it, extending it out to you.
"Thank you."
"When a beautiful lady asks for something, she usually gets it." Rekhyt smoothly states, then grins, "But I need to play nice with you, so."
[6] You wait until you start walking again before sticking a foot out at the exact right moment -- graceful Rekhyt falls head over heels and eats brick. "I deserved that." He grumbles as he rises, grinning.
"You did." You coldly state, grinning.
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 06:04:24 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 24, 2020, 06:36:34 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 07:08:10 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 24, 2020, 07:19:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 24, 2020, 07:44:00 pm
"Back in the Holyland, I purchased a barker-bone handled knife. What's the story behind them?"
"Those were either trophies or cheap scrap. Few Outlander smiths would willingly put Barker bone on a handle without a witness -- without it being important." Rekhyt explains, then, switches to the tongue of SEED, "An Outlander's knife is...well, a symbol of cultural unity. Few Priests would know this, but an oath sworn on a knife is one that is respected as much as possible. Marriages are usually bound on them."
You nod, examing a long, crude sword with a single edge and a curve to the blade.
"It represents that one is a member of the warrior [caste]. It represents...an unbroken line of history. Of struggle and of survival. Faith. Protection. The safety of the clan above all else." He frowns, "It is the Law of the Barker -- the first we learned when we were exiled out into the wasteland with naught but our claws." He flashes the silver of his longknife and the white of his grin. "Barkers value the pack above all else. They are hunters, getting food of their own. When two packs meet, the leaders 'speak' only and first...and when there is conflict within the pack, it is settled away from prying eyes."
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 08:15:22 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 24, 2020, 09:07:11 pm
This is your prime opportunity to get to know this man, whether he could be a useful pawn, perhaps as even a sham husband. See if you can get hm off his guard, emotionally, to try and pry out a simple moment of honest truth from him.
Or keep going with your instincts they seem to be pretty good.
These people have a deep cultural hatred of your people, down to their founding myths. Press on that, see what cracks you can find.
Post by: ZBridges on August 24, 2020, 09:10:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 24, 2020, 10:07:17 pm
We should insist that they stop killing our people and literally grinding them into dust if they truly do want an alliance.Agreed. I had no idea they were doing that
Post by: King Zultan on August 25, 2020, 06:49:55 am
We should insist that they stop killing our people and literally grinding them into dust if they truly do want an alliance.Does the guy we're with right now even have the power to stop this?
Also I say we buy one of the handle-less knives.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 11:41:54 am
"I'd like one of those handle-less knives." You murmur over to Rekhyt, and his eyes dance along the offered blades. He gestures to the smith -- a tall, skinny Outlander with calloused hands and a bone-handled knife at his belt. The man crosses his arms as he approaches Rekhyt, frowning down at the man. One after another, Rekhyt examines the blades, even passing them to you. Finally, he gives a shake of his head. "None of these will work."
"What?" The Smith claims, confused.
"None of these are good enough." Rekhyt explains, crossing his arms. "Your knifework is lazy. Rote."
"You dare to--"
"Shut up." Rekhyt commands with steel in his voice. His eyes narrow. "You claim to be a master -- yet you're nothing more than an apprentice. These blades are too stiff--"
[12+2 vs. 4] The Smith draws -- but Rekhyt is faster. His knife lashes out, flatside first -- and the Smith's blade shatters under the strike. Rekhyt twists the knife in his hand and stares the Smith down. "I've proved my point? Do I need to prove another?"
"No."
Rekhyt turns away, and you follow along. "I know of smiths in the east. Masters of their craft. They make blades that ripple like waves -- the strongest steel with the sharpest edge held the longest. If you seek to become recognized as an Outlander warrior, let me commission you a knife worthy of a goddess -- not one made by a random craftsman in the bazaar." There's a slight, sharp edge in Rekhyt's voice, and you note that he calls you goddess without irony or sarcasm.
Your lips quirk as you think of your response.
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 12:29:43 pm
"Thank you. I had no idea these knives were so brittle. These eastern smiths... are they part of this nation or another?"
Post by: Superdorf on August 25, 2020, 12:34:25 pm
That knife of Rekhyt's you melted away, back at Stormmont... that was a potent insult. More so than I'd realized, at the time.
A touch of will in the words: "Do you know, that's the first time today I've heard you say 'goddess' and mean it?"
"I had no idea these knives were so brittle. These eastern smiths... are they part of this nation or another?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 12:55:18 pm
"What else would you call a beautiful and terrifying woman such--"
[17 vs. 15+2] Rekhyt's will exerts itself, and he glares at you. You notice several people staring as the two of you come to a stop. He exhales a low breath, then, softly, tenderly despite the sharp words, "Do not use your magics on me, woman. My mind is my own." You still have a grip, but, your point proven, you relax it.
You grin as the two of you stare each other down. Rekhyt rolls his eyes and starts off -- but as soon as his back is turned, you can see the faintest traces of a smile. Approval? You follow along in silence until you come to a stop while inspecting some silken drapes.
"I had no idea these knives were so brittle. These eastern smiths... are they part of this nation or another?" You question, levelly.
"By my existence they are part of this empire. The cities by the sea have the best smiths -- especially since they have better ores now. They only had poor quality iron, so they had to learn to work it well. Now, they've access to many minerals and metals they never had before." And, after a pause, "His blades would be good for commoners, but a clever man can see the weakness in his opponent's steel. A fault. A crack. A fracture. It's like many things in life. War, hunting, persuasion, courtship."
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 01:01:12 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 25, 2020, 01:11:46 pm
Ugliness... hm. Do you want a bit more time to wander the bazaar first-- pick out something pleasant, maybe grab a bite to eat somewhere? There's little rush.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 25, 2020, 01:52:32 pm
"Speaking of flaws, can you show me the ugly parts of this city, things your father would never want me to see?"I don’t think ugliness is the correct word here, it could be interpreted as an insult
What are you interested in seeing, Phoenix?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 02:52:22 pm
"I know just the place."
You don't purchase much, but Rekhy does purchase something. A small metal case of those herbal tubes. After he orientates himself, he sets off to a food stall nearby. The two of you claim a seat at the counter, and a large woman with dark hair approaches. She eyes Rekhyt, then you, then turns to start preparing your food.
Do all chefs look alik-- ... is that cheese?
The woman sets two wooden boards in front of you. Gooey white cheese oozes from meat patties.The smell of herbs and gravy drift to tempt your nose, and you pick up one of the meat lumps and pop it into your mouth. The meat is cheap and poorly ground, but the cheese more than makes up for any loss of tenderness. Its heavily herbed and spiced, and if you weren't Ascended, it would no doubt leave you dehydrated. She pours two cups of [kefir] as you eat, and a shot of clear liquor for each of you. All in silence. Rekhyt and you finish at the same time, draining the kefir and moving on to the liqour.
He lifts a toast, "To peace."
"To peace." You echo, tapping your glass on the counter before knocking back the slug of alcohol. It makes even your eyes water.
Rekhyt drops a jade coin on the table and rises -- the Vendor's eyes widen in surprise, but she expresses no gratitude.
"Where to next?" He questions, lighting a tube and passing it to you. You raise your brow, then grin, taking a puff as he lights another for himself.
"Take me to the ugly parts. The places where your father's guide wouldn't."
A crooked grin crosses Rekhyt's lips.
"I expected you to be a bit more prim and proper."
"Sorry to dash that assumption." You grin.
"We'll be wanting to go to the outskirts of town. It's a little dangerous, but I'm sure you won't mind, will you?"
The brick houses here are unkempt. Cracking and crumbling into the street. The sound of gunfire echoes in the distance, but Rekhyt pays no attention to it. You trail behind him, avoiding the beggars and dark alleys. You catch sight of a few urchins clad in torn robes, that hover and lounge in the ruins. Gangs of young men and women linger in darkness, their eyes following the two of you as you step by. Sizing you up with quiet hostility.
He leads you through these decript streets with nary a pause. It isn't until you reach a dimly lit house does he come to a stop. The two of you step inside the bar, and Rekhyt claims a seat in the dimly lit, smelly, smoky establishment. You sit across from him. Groups of people huddle together eyeing the other gangs. The barkeep sits behind bars of steel, a las-gun in plain view. "So, this is probably the safest part of the outskirts. From here it depends on what you want to see from here. There's probably a clan war happening we could intervene in, orphans we could get information from, or bars where the booze will make you go blind. A couple of drugdealers are around, selling [Thorn]. There's a black market nearby, selling slaves. Out here, there isn't any of my father's men -- just too many clans that shouldn't be all pushed together."
Rekhyt pauses, eyeing one of the thugs at the bar. "I grew up around here. When I was worthless. This is where the dregs go to live."
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 02:58:09 pm
"How common are clan wars? I'd like to get a look at one to see what I would be getting into if I agreed to this alliance."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 25, 2020, 03:07:23 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 04:43:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 07:10:18 pm
You look confused.
"Can't exactly scorch a city-block and not have someone notice, right?"
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 07:26:52 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 08:20:51 pm
You still hesitate.
[One more vote required.]
Post by: ZBridges on August 25, 2020, 08:56:03 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 25, 2020, 09:17:21 pm
What kind of information would the orphans provide?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 25, 2020, 09:34:24 pm
[13] Rekhyt gives a laugh, "They do more than that. I am the [King] of Orphans!" Rekhyt grins at you, "Those children only get enough to eat because I pay them for information. They're my eyes and ears in this city. They have my protection -- if they're not stupid, of course."
"That...is either generous or manipulative."
"Why not both?"
"Would these 'dregs' be interested in living in the Holyland?"
[-] Rekhyt's grin falters, then he rises, moving to the bar and ordering drinks for the both of you. Another slug of that horrible alcohol, but the two of you toss them back together and he lights you an herbal [cigarette]. "Yeah. They would. But you shouldn't be. They've lived a long time around here. Too long. They wouldn't be able to uh..." He lapses into Holylander, "Adapt? Adapt."
"That's rather grim of you. You don't think that they can reform?"
"Our cultures are...very different. Priests think of the nation, of the religion. These people only think of family and close friend. No other."
Post by: King Zultan on August 26, 2020, 06:33:34 am
Also I don't see why after some work we can't get our two cultures to become friends.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 03:09:30 pm
"They don't. Not officially. But Atlan and Bat profit from it all the same." Rekhyt shrugs. "Its odd -- isn't it?"
"Are you saying that they're directly protecting it?"
"I implied it. I didn't state it. What can the family fool do to end it?"
"Rekhyt could change it."
"Only a step up from the fool. A backstabbing, lazy, no good prankster."
You frown.
[1 vote for black market]
[1 vote for slave-market]
"Have you made up your mind? We're about to get into a bar fight." Rekhyt ticks his head towards the bar counter, towards the thugs eyeing you furtively.
Post by: Superdorf on August 26, 2020, 03:24:54 pm
Quote from: <...>
A man is bound:
First, to his kinsfolk.
Then, to his [village-state].
Then, to his kingdom.
Then, to his God.
In that order, you understand. A king who stood not for the family bond, in their minds, was no king at all.
Lovely people. Very stubborn. Good with granite.
>>>
Between the options mentioned… I suppose a visit to the black market couldn't hurt.
What are we trying to accomplish, with this jaunt through the slums? What are our priorities out here?
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 03:48:59 pm
Tomorrow we will see the best of this city, the things Samkrend wants us to see. Tonight we should see the worst, the pure unadulterated truth.
Surely you would like to know what atrocities the Outlanders are committing before you commit to an alliance? After we establish the alliance, their atrocities will become our atrocities, and the people in these slums will become our people, destitute and violent.
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 26, 2020, 03:49:29 pm
SEED had some excuse, being in an existential war against the horror and still afforded the contract bound some rights. The underside of this supposedly prosperous land shows either structural problems, a lack of concern or an inability to solve the inequality.
Maybe mention you were looking only to help the poor here, not steal away the kingdom of urchins he has amassed.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 04:29:27 pm
"Don't have enough slaves within your kingdom?"
"Debt-slavery, at least in Stormmont, is a thing of the past. Everyone there is equal."
"In slavery to their Goddess?"
"I'm working on it." You grumble, defensively. "It isn't easy to turn a [totalitarian, rule of one] government towards [democracy, rule of the people] in a day."
"...you're seriously attempting that?"
"I am."
Rekhyt rubs at his face. "Are you dead set?"
"I am."
Rekhyt rises with a glance at the bar. A frown curves his lips, but the two of you leave the dimly lit establishment and set off on the cracked brick streets. A chill begins to blow in as the warmth of the daily sun fades, leaving you with the night above. You cannot see many stars above -- the light pollution of the inner city shines too brightly.
"I heard a saying once, Rekhyt."
"Hmmh?"
"Man fears the darkness, so he builds cities to scrape away at it."
"It's a truthful saying, if not one I've heard before. But if that's the case, why did my father build this city?"
"I was hoping you could answer that question."
"Outlanders have always feared the dark of the wastes at night. Beetles. Abominations. Other clans. Barkers. There are many things in the dark. My father tried to scrape away that darkness -- but bright lights cast darker shadows."
He pulls masks from his bag, a white face with brightly colored lines and a too-wide smile showing sharp teeth. For you, you notice, he has purchased one with an angelic face half consumed by flames.
"You came prepared?"
"I always do."
You step into a derelict building and descend a staircase. A long galley from the red stone beneath the city expands out below you. The great ribs of the reddish-grey rock remind you of some beast's belly, and the only light comes from dim lanterns. The benches where the buyers sit are cast into darkness. You and Rekhyt take a seat in silence.
Huddled masses in iron chains sit a great cage by the stage. A hard-eyed, tanned man strapped with muscles stands shirtless, his body marked with tattoo and ritual scar. A long mane of blond hair hangs past his shoulders, filled with bone charm. Guards stand close by, tensely eying the crowd.
[16-5] You sit clenched and patient as the youth and elderly are sold off to the crowd's dark figures. There are many peoples of SEED mixed in with unfortunate Outlander. You notice some of those Nothern Outlanders, some that look similar to Rekhyt --
He wraps a hand around your wrist gently. "This bothers you, doesn't it?"
"...yes."
"I didn't mean to make you sa--"
"It makes me angry." You interrupt, clenching your fist.
"Another will pop up if you destroy this one. And what of the slaves?"
"Don't mock m-"
"If we disrupt this place -- we need a plan for what to do after. What we will say, what we will do, how we will fight -- we can't go into this half-assed."
Give me permission -- give me a plan. I hate this.
"How did you know?"
"You had a certain look in your eyes when I said the word 'slave'."
"And you let me come?" You question, darkly.
"You're a free woman -- what can I do but help?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 26, 2020, 04:51:01 pm
Is there any silicon nearby? We could use that for chain breaking and not risk burning people in the process
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 26, 2020, 05:10:37 pm
Use body enhancement only and stealth, take out the guards first with Rekhyt's help. Then if possible remove the lanterns with controlled small scale detonations and attack the stage. Create a light source for the slaves to run to and encourage them to follow you.
Hard to pull off with just 2 people against an unknown number of enemies.
The buyers also seem to value their anonymity/ Perhaps attacking that first would have the best chance of reducing the size of the next gathering like this. If you could find a way to light up the viewing gallery without overtly displaying your abilities.
Maybe there is a better plan, but permission to act? Ha, yes. Given if you need it.
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 05:39:29 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 26, 2020, 05:48:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 06:39:45 pm
"Intimately."
"Where and how do they get them?"
"Raids and Raids. No place is safe."
"Who are most of the buyers?"
"Rich clans and individuals -- to do work that no free man wants to cheaply," Rekhyt explains, answering your next question, smoothly. "Usually, the planting and harvesting of crops. Some are less...fortunate."
"And how long have they've been -- "
"Slavery? Forever -- but the institutions that have formed have been within the last fifty years or so." Rekhyt shrugs, "It was a lot more small-scaled. More honorable. A warrior kept what they captured and no more."
You turn your appraising eye to the stage once more --
[9] Nine armed Outlanders are guarding the stage, and, by extension, the slaves. While not armed with a gun, the man on the stage has a cruel-looking whip and a thin, curved sword at his hip.
[12] They have las-guns, and are armored in what looks like bioplastic armor. Each has a helmet, and uniformity about them. They stand stoic and stiffly -- experienced. Each of them wears a blank mask -- no doubt matching the expression behind it. Knives are at their belts, as one would expect.
[-]The lamps are burning a hydrocarbon, of some sort, judging by the soot -- separating the two to control the hydrogen...you don't know what it would do.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 07:22:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 07:25:33 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 07:26:38 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 07:27:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 07:29:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 26, 2020, 07:31:18 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 26, 2020, 11:24:11 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 26, 2020, 11:49:21 pm
We drop every guard here with strength of will, or with a few well-placed las-bolts, or what have you. Then what? How do we safely extricate the captives in the ensuing tumult, and where do we take them once we're clear? How do we minimize any political fallout that follows?
Most of all: what is the final scope of your action here to be? Are you breaking up a single gathering-- or opening war against the entire Outlander slave trade?
Post by: ZBridges on August 27, 2020, 12:25:10 am
Alternatively, Rekhyt will probably know a good, secret safehouse for them for now, and we can pick them up when we leave this place.
Post by: Superdorf on August 27, 2020, 01:00:11 am
One last question, then: do we want to let Rekhyt know what we're about to do? On the one hand, he may have something pressing we've not considered-- on the other hand, I'd rather not be overheard.
Post by: ZBridges on August 27, 2020, 01:01:01 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 27, 2020, 06:46:29 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 27, 2020, 06:50:11 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 27, 2020, 11:25:51 pm
I updated the previous one to include the mask. I apologize if that caused an issue.
"Say, healer. Doctor is a Holyland thing." Rekhyt advises, then nods, hus expression hidden behind his mask. He withdraws a las-pistol and adjusts himself subtly to provide cover. You take a deep breath, letting your willpower drift out.
[-] Two guards drop to the ground as the water within their brains suddenly turns to hydrogen and oxygen. The others shift in confusion, glancing away from the crowd to turn their attentions to the bodies-- then they move to try and assist their dying comrades. Muffled and quiet conversation breaks out. The pews, however, remained quiet.
"Three gold for --" The man on the stage falters, confused, stopping mid-sale. "Ah. Excuse us-- one moment. Sorry for the delay." He hopes down, striding over to the dead guards to nudge at one with a boot.
You rise, calling out, "I'm a healer-- let me see them."
[2] Subterfuge isn't your strong suit. Guns level at you instantly as you make yourself very suspicious in a very short amount of time. The other customers only shift in their seats and crane their necks to examine the scene. Interested only in the drama, no doubt. The lead slaver waves you away, "Go sit back down-- do not approach the stage. We'll deal with this."
You hesitate— Rekhyt shifts.
Post by: ZBridges on August 27, 2020, 11:30:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 27, 2020, 11:32:45 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 27, 2020, 11:34:25 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 28, 2020, 12:12:35 am
Post by: ZBridges on August 28, 2020, 12:15:47 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 28, 2020, 12:16:46 am
Whichever way not really super concerned about it.
Post by: ZBridges on August 28, 2020, 12:17:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on August 28, 2020, 05:01:41 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 31, 2020, 11:39:41 am
You reclaim your seat and glance at Rekhyt, who gives a shrug of his shoulders. "Worth a shot. We might have to try something a bit more straightforward -- unless you have another idea?" He whispers with a frown.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 31, 2020, 11:48:55 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 31, 2020, 01:20:59 pm
"Alright. Drag out the next one. Come on." The slaver barks.
"But if you want me to take over, just say the word." Rekhyt jokes, his mask grinning for him.
Post by: Superdorf on August 31, 2020, 01:21:37 pm
Dissolve the minds of the remaining guards, one at a time. Prioritize those closest to the corpses.
Snuff the lamp-flames next-- draw the heat from the combustive reaction, say, or twist the glass over the flame. Again, one at a time.
Creeping fear is our game here, slow and subtle. You can whisk away the captives while the crowd's scared and confused-- with any luck, the people gathered here will attribute the evening's proceedings to a vengeful spirit or some such.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 31, 2020, 01:32:48 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 03:04:42 pm
Was worth a shot indeed.+1
Dissolve the minds of the remaining guards, one at a time. Prioritize those closest to the corpses.
Snuff the lamp-flames next-- draw the heat from the combustive reaction, say, or twist the glass over the flame. Again, one at a time.
Creeping fear is our game here, slow and subtle. You can whisk away the captives while the crowd's scared and confused-- with any luck, the people gathered here will attribute the evening's proceedings to a vengeful spirit or some such.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 31, 2020, 07:39:46 pm
[-] You have no problems killing the slavers instantly -- the guards hit the ground in waves as you apply your willpower to the water within their brains. The remainder draw back from their brethren's corpses, only to hit the ground the same as you extend your will further -- there is panic, but only one guard manages to slip out the side door and escape. The lead slaver starts to flee, trying to follow his guard out -- the audience starts up, pressing towards the exit.
[11][20][10]That is, until the lamps smolder and die. One after another. The hall closest to the main exit is plunged into darkness first. There's dread and panic. The slave-buyers are confused and afraid, and the lead slaver slows as the laterns die over the side exit. He's hesitating, and Rekhyt lines up the shot.
"Tell me when."
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 31, 2020, 07:48:12 pm
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 08:58:00 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 31, 2020, 09:36:38 pm
Tell him to take the shot. Hopefully that will get the crowd moving again.if the slaver knows he’ll just move out of the way, we need to kill the slaver
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 09:39:52 pm
Post by: Superdorf on August 31, 2020, 09:48:53 pm
Hydrogen Embolism: Novice, Horrifying((Ahhaha. Ladies and gentledust... we've found ourselves a brand-new adjective. :)) ))
/ Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus and took him.
/ And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear.
/ Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.
/ Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
/ But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?
Give the order. Take the captives-- explain that you mean them well-- and leave this place, for a safe-house of Rekhyt's choosing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 31, 2020, 10:43:29 pm
"Rifle internals?"
"Oh -- yeah. The shock and awe factor is amazing." Rekhyt draws and levels his long knife while pulling the slaver up by the hair. The slaver catches your eye contact. His eyes are unfocused, but there is no fear in them, no shock. Just...acceptance. "I mean, how many times have you had to change a pistol mag? Why carry extra?"
"That's....that's fair, yeah." You dip your head in a nod, and Rekhyt cuts the slaver -- ...like a pig.
"So, I figure -- why not put that power to use."
You nod again as Rekhyt cleans his blade. The slave-buyers are sitting patiently.
"They're waiting for us to start selling." He explains.
You turn towards the crowd to glare at the eighteen masked individuals that stare back at you. With your only arm, you lift your hand and gesture to the exit. A low murmur breaks out through the crowd, but they leave -- only after a glance back at 'Khudal,' who tilts his head and lifts his pistol.
"Do you know a safe house we could use?" You question, starting towards the cage. The huddled masses, clad in rags and smelling of filth, nervously shift away, but you don't have to speak a word. You lift your mask and give a smile to your people. Shock, then surprise, then tears -- tears of joy. Of hope. Some fall to their knees in prayer. While not quite sure who you are, the Outlanders relax a little when their comrades in chains explain.
With one smile and not one word the crowd of slaves knows what you represent.
"Touching. You've got a place." Rekhyt interrupts, and you twist your attention away from the 'slaves'.
Shepherding twenty-nine former slaves through the city to the hover-dock takes the better part of two hours. Boarding and explaining the situation to your guard takes another hour -- the only thing they want to know is if they should leave now or later to deliver them home. Rekhyt, however, shakes his head.
"No, no. Leaving would be suspicious. Stay. I'll pay for the food bills." He pulls out a bag of coins and tosses it at your captain's feet. "Enough for a week."
The Crusader, to her credit, only looks to you. When you dip a nod, the captain snatches up the bag and gives a duck of her head to Rekhyt.
You step out on to the landing pad and stretch. Rekhyt yawns, "So, where to next, Goddess?"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 10:49:20 pm
The black market, perhaps? If not there, maybe we could visit the temple of the fire god.
Post by: VoidSlayer on August 31, 2020, 11:02:03 pm
Maybe see some art? Or I guess a temple would have most of the art.
Nasty little trick you got there! Almost as fun as the one I used to take out starships by breaching the fusion generators with micro wormholes.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on August 31, 2020, 11:05:05 pm
Actually, what about what the working class and upper class do for entertainment?+1 to these suggestions
Maybe see some art? Or I guess a temple would have most of the art.
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 11:09:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on August 31, 2020, 11:13:36 pm
Wouldn't you fear such a godly act?))
We were just at the black market. We should at least learn the religion(s)? of our potential alliance members, +1 to temple exploration
That was the slave market. ))
Post by: Superdorf on August 31, 2020, 11:19:12 pm
((But yes, Sol-children are scary :-X ))
Food. A thank you to the princeling-- then rest. It's been a full day.
Joyous tears, from a smile-- that, godling, was the trick of the evening.
You did well by your names back there. By both your names.
Post by: ZBridges on August 31, 2020, 11:20:54 pm
Take a quick look at the fire temple.
Post by: King Zultan on September 01, 2020, 09:08:47 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 01, 2020, 01:09:30 pm
The basin within the center of the mound burns with a hydrogen flame. Pieces of wood burn and crackle weakly, turning to ash and char. A golden hammer, anvil, and cooking pot sit next to the basin on elevated plinths. A bearded priest sits beside the fire, cross-legged. He stares into the flames with intensity that, you note, could probably melt steel.
“The Temple is closed at this time we—”, A young man approaches the two of you, and speaks softly. He wears a loose robe of mottled red and blue, tied to his frame with a sash of gold and silver thread. His head is shaved free of hair, and a splotch of black charcoal dots his brow.
“Your goddess is here.” Rekhyt interrupts, gesturing to you.
“I’m sorry, what?”
You turn your gaze to Rekhyt, who lifts his mask to flash you a grin and give a thumbs up.
Post by: ZBridges on September 01, 2020, 03:30:03 pm
Post by: King Zultan on September 02, 2020, 03:06:40 am
Create a small flame above our outstretched hand and observe the man's reaction.+1 Looks like its time to get more followers.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 02, 2020, 10:32:00 pm
Then he investigates your hand. You make to flinch back, but Rekhyt waves you into stillness. "It is the Outlander way, goddess." He pauses, then continues, in Holylander, "Skepticism."
"It's no trick -- I can summon fire."
The young priest is silent. His hands shake as he smooths out his robes. He bows his head and turns away. He fetches the elder-by-the-flame and the two approach. The elder takes your wrist to examine the fire, and his hand drops.
"Fire-blooms-flowers brought home by a fool."
"...what?"
He gestures to Rekhyt behind the mask of Khudal. "The Fool."
"No, what do-- that name. I've been called it before."
"You've forgotten who you are." The elder states, nodding. He crosses his hands into his robes over his bulk. The youth is scribbling across a thick pad of paper. Observing with the eyes of a fanatic. "We can educate you."
You hesitate, and Rekhyt turns and gives an exaggerated tilt of his head-- then a slow, delicate bow. "Welcome back to the show, Goddess."
I...I'm confused. What just happened?
Post by: ZBridges on September 02, 2020, 10:38:19 pm
Post by: Superdorf on September 02, 2020, 11:00:59 pm
<Have we been here before?>
...
...show them a bit more fire. A halo, a rose, what have you-- you're good at such things-- and ask your questions, in the hydrogen light.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 02, 2020, 11:27:14 pm
Let’s figure out what they have to say. Knowledge can’t hurt.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 02, 2020, 11:54:18 pm
"Where does that name come from?" You question, and twist the flame into a flower. A wildflower, to be precise, one of those that grows on fallow farmlands the Holyland over.
"That flower you hold. It grows across burnt forests in the canyons. It was once a marker for fertile land." The Elder nods, unsurprised. "Two others followed you in name. One united the clans against a demon. Though she, and many, many others perished, it was defeated. Another planted those flowers in the ashes of his many fallen foes as he ripped apart the clans."
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 12:01:51 am
"What were these individuals capable of, and where were they buried? I wish to pay my respects and commune with them."
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 03, 2020, 12:16:40 am
Hydrogen control isn't the only way to force fire like powers. As an example gravity and spacial manipulation are two sides of a similar coin and with sufficient pushing you can cut chemical bonds apart or force things together. Maybe others from the crashed ship woke up like McCreary and had something that could control energy as well.
Post by: Superdorf on September 03, 2020, 12:17:13 am
These warriors of the old flame... by what names did they call themselves?
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 12:21:28 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 03, 2020, 12:27:05 am
The next to take her essence. If no one does, and we decay to non-existence, then our instances die with her. Cadet branches become the Main, and our other instances live on. Poorer for the lack of Pheonix's will, of course
((Besides that, we know from Silas' experiments and Alphira's memories that Dust falls apart pretty quickly when separated from the body of an Ascended. Only question is, does an Ascended corpse decay similarly to that of a baseliner?))
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 12:33:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 03, 2020, 12:45:55 am
"What name did they go by?"
"Fire-Blooms-Flowers."
"...right. Do you know where they're buried? For pcommunion]?"
"In the wastes, perhaps? I do not know where -- no one does. Ages have passed since they perished. One was forgotten on accident. The other on purpose. There's another temple, to the north that may know." The elder explains, "The birthplace of the sacred fire. If you wish to commune there, I could seek to arrange a caravan."
"Let her pray by her fire, geezer." Rekhyt states bluntly, and you shoot him a dark look. The Elder looks annoyed, but gestures you over to the firepit, and you drag your eyes over the gold -- attracted by the shine and craftsmanship.
"Gods are made by man -- like a tool, goddess. Do not forget." Rekhyt draws close to whisper, "But the temples provide great wealth, resources and influence. Only fools spurn their favor -- and their blessing."
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 12:51:33 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 03, 2020, 04:56:08 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 03, 2020, 09:30:11 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 03, 2020, 09:34:57 am
Approach.
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 08:54:06 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 03, 2020, 08:59:13 pm
"Could you please schedule such a caravan in a week or so? I do wish to learn about those who came before me."+1
Post by: Superdorf on September 03, 2020, 10:21:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 03, 2020, 10:37:10 pm
"...from dust and ashes I have called you, and to dust and ash you shall return." With that, the elder bows his head to you. Your expression twists beneath the mask, but you give him a slight bow in return. Rekhyt made no pretense of paying attention -- he's teasing the young priest by picking at the young man's robes and pen. At one point, he nudges him, causing the priest's pen to skip across the paper.
"Khudal." You murmur, trying to sound stern.
[4] The masked man twists his head towards you. He raises a finger in a universal, very human sign.
"Khudal does what he does -- there's no stopping it, Ochadi."
"Could you please schedule such a caravan within a week or so?" You question, glancing away from the prince playing fool.
"Of course." The elder nods, crossing his hands. The young man turns to leave, stepping over Rekhyt's outstretched foot. "Return here tomorrow night, and we will tell you when such a caravan will leave. I'm thankful you wish to recognized so soon by your people." Then, after a pause, and after you turn to leave, he stops you. "If you would wait -- the youth is bringing the brand, but it only has access to our local bank."
Post by: Superdorf on September 03, 2020, 11:02:02 pm
Brand?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 03, 2020, 11:09:03 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 03, 2020, 11:10:50 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 03, 2020, 11:59:51 pm
Khudal catches your attention and taps his forearm. He taps the ribbon of scars that spell out Khudal in the Outlander Script. "Bank access." He explains. "But you no need of money, do you, Goddess. By all means, let me hold it for you."
Post by: ZBridges on September 04, 2020, 12:08:04 am
"No. If I am Fire-Blooms-Flowers, then this something I must do myself."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 04, 2020, 12:15:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 04, 2020, 05:58:29 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 04, 2020, 11:14:18 am
Your arm-- your call. You'd have to accept the scars into your dust-memory somehow, lest they slough off with your next healing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 07, 2020, 11:23:14 am
Oh. Right.
Atleast to the others that lingering reflex looked simply like the flex of your burned flesh. Rekhyt rolls the sleeve down, quietly assisting with hiding the mark as he does his. You look up at the elder, then, quietly, "I assume I have some duties to go along with this boon?"
The elder nods. "It is your duty to show people the strength of our way. How that is done is up to you. You bear your mask, but if you are strong enough, then you do not need to wear it."
Post by: Superdorf on September 07, 2020, 11:47:29 am
Regardless: the hour is late. Time for pleasant partings, I should think, with perhaps the arrangement of another meeting tomorrow evening.
Post by: ZBridges on September 07, 2020, 04:29:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 07, 2020, 11:50:06 pm
"She is a young goddess. I will explain the rest. Thanks geezer." Rekhyt turns, giving a lift of his hand in a wave to the priests. '
"I'll be back to tour the temple tomorrow night -- and learn more." You tell the elder, bowing your head. He gives a smile and a tit of his head in return. He takes his place by the fire in silence while the youth hurries off to find a new duty.
"What was that all about?" You question, out of ear shot.
"How to explain this..." Rekhyt tugs off his mask, tossing it into the air and deftly catching the heavy porcelien. "Our gods are man-made. Crafted with a brand and a mask. At night men and women put on their masks and play their part. Equal parts entertainment and proselytizing. Killing another god is frowned upon, but is accepted --" After a beat, "The last fire god died when he was knifed in a back alley. The God of Theives swore it wasn't her, but no one believes it."
"For example -- I am Khudal, the jester, god of the outcast. The people of the street pray to me for safety. The Orphans are my wards. I believe i am the third within this city and one of two, total."
You chew on the inside of your lip for a moment, glancing down at your own mask. "This...this is the mask of their god?"
"That temple's, yes. It mysteriously disappeared last night. Somehow, there was a ring of ash and soot around it, a firepoppy where it once sat and a smoke in the air. Surely a sign that Fire-Blooms-Flowers was reborn, right?"
Post by: ZBridges on September 07, 2020, 11:58:59 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 08, 2020, 05:18:13 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 08, 2020, 06:39:11 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 08, 2020, 06:42:07 am
"What kinds of deeds do we need to do to access the funds withing the temple?"To be clear, are you asking how to get funds from a temple, or how to get funds to build a temple/improve existing ones?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 08, 2020, 06:49:25 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 08, 2020, 12:22:11 pm
I suppose it'd be worth finding out at some point, how a fire goddess earns her keep around here.
For now, though... is time we were heading back.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 08, 2020, 02:08:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 08, 2020, 02:57:52 pm
We should return to our quarters, but not to the Holyland. We still need to secure the alliance and do other things here.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 08, 2020, 03:34:58 pm
These are the eastern Outlanders.Thanks, will edit accordingly
We should return to our quarters, but not to the Holyland. We still need to secure the alliance and do other things here.
Also, +1 to this suggestion as well
Post by: Superdorf on September 08, 2020, 04:17:35 pm
I’m not sure it would be a good look to leave right after being accepted into the bank, but let’s talk to our economics advisor about integrating ourselves with the Eastern Outlanders’ economy
((It's what, four in the morning where Phoebe's at? I figure now's as good a time to be on our way as any.))
We should return to our quarters, but not to the Holyland. We still need to secure the alliance and do other things here.
Aye, that's what I had in mind.
Post by: King Zultan on September 09, 2020, 03:34:29 am
These are the eastern Outlanders.+1 Its time for some sleep.
We should return to our quarters, but not to the Holyland. We still need to secure the alliance and do other things here.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 12:01:46 pm
With a clink, he pops your window open, turning and giving you a very dramatic bow. "Lady Goddess."
"Lord Rekhyt." You make to step up into your window, before pausing.
[19] [9 vs. 2.] With a single step you close the distance between the two of you and wrap your hand around Rekhyt's neck as you pull him close--
You shut the window behind you and close the curtains on a stunned Rekhyt, only allowing yourself a triumphant grin as you're sure he's out of sight.
Rekhyt, for good or ill, is on our side. You remove the heavy outer wear, folding it gently and setting it to one side. You pause mid-fold, then, My assessment is he seems to value personal freedoms, the poor, and independence. Intelligent, capable, and devious.
...was that okay? It seemed like we wanted him on our side, but I couldn't tell. I don't understand our plans, sometimes. You wipe the ash from the street from your boots and set them aside. After a non-urgent message to Geoyde to start drawing up plans to integrate the Eastern Outland economy with the Holyland.
It isn't even an hour later when William, Emma, Mellone and Crusader Cephie stand outside your door. They look well-rested, with bright, shiny eyes and stiff backs, but they wear frowns, and they shift uncomfortably when you open the door. Mellone, on the other hand, is a sleep-deprived mess. Her hair is a frizzy, untamed mess, and she sips tea from a ceramic cup. She dowses where she stands.
"A town on the edge of the Holy Fire Exclusion Zone is under a full assault by Plague." Cephie crisply reports after you stare at the four in silence.
"Evacuation is already underway. Reinforcements are starting to arrive." William murmurs, shifting.
"Isela has briefed the council on the overview, and is already taking steps. Hoganson and Geoyde want you to overrule her." Emma reports, with a straightening of her hair. " I trust Isela, but we agreed to let you make the call."
Post by: Superdorf on September 10, 2020, 12:49:04 pm
I've been trying to let you steer things with the Outlanders yourself, for the most part. Courtship is-- a delicate thing, for a dust-elder to be sticking his nose into.
"Isela knows what she's doing-- she has my word, if necessary. Are we needed there?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 12:56:27 pm
"According to Isela? No. Eric has been deployed as a morale booster and force multiplier. The Retributionists are going to be assisting with a total of six [Voidmarines], under the command of Captain Murdach." Emma reports. "Thornton and Family Assets are mobilizing to assist with defense of local settlements."
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 02:31:17 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 02:37:01 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 02:39:25 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 10, 2020, 02:45:59 pm
I would really prefer to be able to send an ascended there, I kinda wish William or Cephie had been left behind to reinforce them.
What is up with Mellone? Did she tail you last night? That would be hilarious if we had someone following us out of concern through that whole thing.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 03:03:34 pm
Should I send William to reinforce?
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 03:06:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 03:15:47 pm
"Tonight. This morning if the Outlanders let us borrow a craft."
"I can arrange that." Mellone nods.
"Good. Get suited up and bring your Warmachines. You're under Isela's command."
"I'll send her a message." Emma volunteers, "Letting her know you're on your way."
Anything else?
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 03:19:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 10, 2020, 05:46:59 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 05:51:20 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 09:46:25 pm
Spoiler: Chatlog (click to show/hide)
You hesitate.
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 09:49:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 10:40:25 pm
Spoiler: Chatlog (click to show/hide)
Post by: Superdorf on September 10, 2020, 10:43:59 pm
His training won't save him in the belly of the demon, nor his dust-- that monster demands a different strength. It'll consume him, if he can't rise to the trial.
...Show Emma the datapad.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 10:56:38 pm
Then, quietly, "I don't think he's sleeping any more. He's on a lot of [amphetamines]. He's gathered a staff-- they're all practically worshipping that thing..."
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 11:00:38 pm
I support letting William use the suit.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 10, 2020, 11:21:33 pm
Spoiler: Video: Test_Immersion_Tank21 (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on September 10, 2020, 11:25:22 pm
Post by: Superdorf on September 10, 2020, 11:49:35 pm
If William's to make use of that thing... write him first. Tell him exactly what he'd be dealing with, and don't put your word to the matter unless he deems himself able. Unless you deem him able.
Post by: ZBridges on September 11, 2020, 02:48:07 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 11, 2020, 03:29:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 11, 2020, 06:43:29 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 11, 2020, 01:49:45 pm
The armor will be great for fighting Magnus but I REALLY hesitate for anything before that.
Post by: ZBridges on September 11, 2020, 03:14:02 pm
Post by: Iris on September 11, 2020, 04:13:59 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 11, 2020, 05:27:12 pm
Post by: Eschar on September 11, 2020, 10:03:00 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 11, 2020, 10:13:26 pm
This selfishness will lead to more lives lost.
Post by: King Zultan on September 12, 2020, 02:52:40 am
Post by: ZBridges on September 12, 2020, 03:14:44 am
Anyway, let's eat cake on vacation while our men die horribly in huge numbers, knowing we could have done more but choosing not to. Hmm, I wonder if there are any nice shops in this city?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 12, 2020, 06:58:23 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 13, 2020, 01:07:06 am
William is somehow inferior to us, apparently, weak of will, and therefore he is unfit to wear the armor.
That's not what I was trying to say. Rather: his strength of arms won't help him, if the demon tries to steal his mind.
You saw what happened, when Φοῖνιξ first donned the demon. Skill and fury mean nothing in there. One thing and one thing only saved her: that she would have died, rather than kill. That she would have died, rather than yield that part of herself.
Can William make the same call, if it comes to it? I'm willing to bet he can... but I want to hear as much from him first. This isn't an easy matter.
Post by: ZBridges on September 13, 2020, 01:13:39 am
Phoebe, you need to ask yourself whether you trust your allies. If you aren't willing to take risks to help your people and train your kindred, Magnus will be the death of us all.
Post by: King Zultan on September 13, 2020, 03:29:18 am
But other than that I'm fine with it as long as we ask him if he even wants to risk using first.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on September 13, 2020, 04:17:58 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 13, 2020, 06:19:43 pm
Post by: King Zultan on September 14, 2020, 02:16:41 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 14, 2020, 10:44:02 pm
You curl your lips into a tight frown as you glance down at the messaging app once more. After a fierce internal discussion, you gesture William into your room. He glances at the others and steps inside. The door shuts, and you're left alone with the Warlord's son.
Then, quietly, you explain the 'demon' armor. In great, gory detail. How it works. The entity within. The pain and the darkness -- and the rage it incites in its hapless user. William listens stoicly, and, above all else, silently. "...Its a true sadist. It enjoys the pain of its user. Enjoys the anger. Do you think you could handle it?"
"No." WIlliam shifts, "But I'll do it anyway. Murdach will be there -- he can put me down if I go too far."
"William--"
"Pheobe. Is this an order?"
Post by: Superdorf on September 14, 2020, 11:19:38 pm
For the record, I'm totally open to slinging more pixel-work if you've got anything specific you'd like.))
...no.
You can tell the armor you'll be mobilizing yourself in a few days, if you think it'll help. I'll not trust it with one of your friends, now he's deemed himself susceptible.
Post by: ZBridges on September 14, 2020, 11:41:59 pm
Post by: King Zultan on September 15, 2020, 07:02:34 am
Had a feeling he wouldn't be interested in it.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 15, 2020, 08:14:02 am
William's jaw sets as he stares at you. "I can do it, Pheobe. If it helps." He grins, "I'll be fine. It can't be worse than my father."
"No." You repeat, turning to open the door. William audibly grits his teeth.
"Mellone. Would we be able to call upon the Outlanders for military aid?" You question.
"Maybe? We'd have to pay, but I can negotiate it." Mellone murmurs.
"I would speak to Isela if you intend to interfere In her strategy." Emma points out, "No doubt she already has a plan."
Post by: ZBridges on September 15, 2020, 11:55:56 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 16, 2020, 04:59:19 am
Speak to Isela and ask her if Outlander help would be useful.+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 16, 2020, 09:37:08 am
"Good Morning." You state, without cheer, "Isela. Do you need Outlander support?"
"No." Comes Isela's terse response. "And furthermore, I recommend no further communication on this platform or others for operational security purposes, Mother Pheonix."
Post by: Superdorf on September 16, 2020, 09:45:19 am
Everything's in place. Is time to step back and let our people work.
Post by: ZBridges on September 16, 2020, 09:53:57 am
Sign off.+1
Everything's in place. Is time to step back and let our people work.
Post by: King Zultan on September 17, 2020, 01:45:36 am
+1 They've got this covered.Sign off.+1
Everything's in place. Is time to step back and let our people work.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 17, 2020, 04:18:19 pm
"Peace has been good, hasn't it?"
"...yeah." You nod, returning the smile with a smirk.
"Goodnight."
You wave as you return to bed. Your datapad gives a ping --
"Good morning or evening, everyone! Welcome to the Valhol's Retributionists live war stream! Brought to you by our wonderful sponsor, the Holy Fortress-State of Pheonix! Please sit back and enjoy the highlights after operational security specialists have cleared them!" A bright, blue, cheerful androgynous figure chirps to life, announcing itself as you open the link. It gives a wave. Then the feed ends.
...huh.
Sleep doesn't arrive before there's another knock at your door.
"Pheonix. Your tour is ready to receive you." A pleasent voice calls.
You rise and dress, slipping a coat over your shoulders and raking your fingers through the mess of your hair. You slip on the heavy spacer boots, taking great comfort in the synthetic leather and soft insole. You tighten your sash around you waist and emerge into the hallway.
You take in what remains of your entourage. Emma wears an airy white dress -- a las-pistol sticking out of her belt. Cephie breathes through a gas-mask, maintaining her masquerade. The rest are dressed plainly in SEED scholar uniforms; the only two that further stand out are the Pirate Twins in their gray, bulky jumpsuits -- flanked by their void armor.
The twin armors give a snappy salute when they spot you. Ethan and Finn flash grins at each other and give you a thumbs up.
"We were up all night working on that." Ethan begins.
"The armor doesn't like you." Finn continues,
"We had to explain the contract." Ethan finishes with a nod. "Even then, they say they're doing it 'ironically.'"
You shake your head, turning to Emma and Mellone. "What's on the schedule today?"
"Well, according to the agenda the Outlanders 'submitted,' we'll be going to breakfast with the family. Then a brief tour of the Temple of Money and War, followed by a bazaar tour. After that, they wish us to attend a military parade, then a luncheon. An inspection of the aqueducts, and finally, dinner in the mountains. There are hot springs there." Emma reads from her datapad, scrolling with a swiping finger.
"Does that sound acceptable, Mother Pheonix?" Mellone questions, politely.
Post by: Superdorf on September 17, 2020, 04:31:18 pm
Good press, I suppose. Also, funny.
(Also also, disturbing.)
No quibbles here. The Khaganate wants to show off; might as well let them.
I'm curious, though... do we have an idea of when we want to leave this place? The war has me worried.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 17, 2020, 04:36:28 pm
"Well, after the...the marriage ceremony. Also, your induction into a clan or nation within the Khagnate." Mellone answers, quietly.
Post by: ZBridges on September 17, 2020, 04:59:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 17, 2020, 09:11:08 pm
Breakfast, at first glance, seems like a very moderate affair. One that you shouldn't even note as an event -- it isn't until you taste the bowl of porridge in front of you that flavorful spices explode across your palate: heat, pungency, peppery, all twisting together into an interplay of flavor. The porridge nearly drips with butter and cream.
Thin slices of dried meat drip with fat and flavor, berries dried into the dusty protein, and herbs and spices round out the experience, turning each bite into a salty flavor burst. You're surprised, but devour an entire plate of the sticks.
The next is long, thin dried pieces of ...a fruit? A vegetable? Its a ruddy, rusty red, with dots of black. You pop one into your mouth. And chew. And chew. And chew. The material becomes softer, and it tastes close to an apple mixed with cherry but has the consistency of dried vegetable chips. You notice, after the first, that the Outlanders are pocketing these as opposed to eating them.
"Dried [cactus] fruits." Mellone explains, "Traditionally, every Outlander is to carry some dried food. These have the least scent, last forever, and are tasty."
"What was that meat?"
"[Beast of Burden]." Mellone nods, explaining, "They dry it out, pound it into dust, mix it with fat, berries, and spices. A traditional dish."
You put another dried [cactus] flower into your pocket and rise with your group
You munch on one of the dried flowers as your group exits the palace and travels down the main road under heavy guard. Nicole and Samkrend speak quietly together in a clump, while Rekhyt, Bat, and Atlan all do their best to stay far away from one another. Bat approaches first.
"I am Bat Samkrend. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise. Pheobe Gainer." You nod
"I am told that war is your strong suit. That you need soldiers." Bat nods, "I'm the current [Marshal] of our military forces."
You fight the urge to raise a brow. "And you have many soldiers?"
"A great deal. Some are more loyal to me than my father. I have a great many contacts within the temple of War, as well."
You stay silent.
"I would love to see you fight." He bows, his expression never changing as he drifts away to stand with his guard.
The temple of Money is free of the common folk, and the guards gleam in gold and silver ornament. The priest bobs his head respectfully when he meets Samkrend. The Khan introduces you, and the priest doesn't bow to you, only looking at you with contempt. After you tour the temple in silence, you are allowed into the Samkrend's family vault.
Piles upon piles of gold and jade coins lay neatly stacked in great piles upon pallets of wood. Banknotes and deeds lay on desks, and a young priest is pouring over figures upon folded and wrinkled paper -- your datapad pings.
"At [0900] this morning, Crusaders have completed the evacuation of Achmil, in farming district seven of the Holy Fortress-State of Pheonix. Current civilian casualties report being as low as two hundred individuals, out of the town's three thousand and ninety-seven inhabitants. Crusader casualties are currently at thirty-five. "
A brief image appears on the screen -- a figure strides across the battleground, massive and bulky in the heavy Crusader armor, his face hidden beneath a gas mask. A heavy steel shield is strapped to his arm, and one hand gleams with the silver of cybernetics. He shreds apart Insects with a cutter hilt and a sawn-off inferno shotgun. Crusaders follow him, laying down suppressive fire and holding their ground. A great beast rises from an alleyway, lunging at Eric -- the head of a barker hangs loosely from its neck and human twists' face in perpetual agony beneath that. Great, sharp tentacles lash out--
Eric twists, lopping them off and sending a spray of ichor across the street. He levels his shotgun, and Inferno explodes out, sending superheated magnesium and white phosphorous burning out across infected flesh. The creature screams as Eric ruthlessly unloads shell after shell into it. When it stops twitching, he moves on.
Atlan sniffs, playing with her hair. You didn't even notice her approach. "The North has far more money than this old fool." She explains quietly. "And the Temple of Money is based there. Great deposits of gold, silver, iron. Rare metals too."
"No doubt valuable." You offer politely.
"Of course." Atlan shrugs.
[-][17] Her sleeve rides up when she rubs at her face once, and you notice a thin spider-work of a brand across her forearm.
The Temple of War is a block of a building -- a massive fortification of stone and cement, with sword-armed guards standing at the gate and rifles aiming down from murder holes. After a verification process that puts your Crusaders to shame, you are allowed in.
This temple isn't so much a place of worship as a military academy. Young men and women either train with various weapons or pour over crumbling military treatise under scarred veterans' watchful eyes. Bat approaches a man leaning heavily on a knobby cane. The two hug and exchange a conversation.
"Form up!" Bat barks sharply after a nod from the elder.
The youths scramble into formation behind older students, pulling themselves into crisp military lines and clasping their hands behind their backs in the manner of SEED Crusaders.
"Drop. Push-ups." Bat barks again.
The youths do so -- and you watch as they push themselves as hard as they can. It takes an hour for the last one to collapse to the ground in exhaustion, soaked in sweat and caked in training ground dust.
Bat nods. He embraces the elder once more, returning to Samkrend's side.
[19][20] There's reverence there from the priests. They watch Bat with wide eyes, stepping carefully around him -- but you notice something fascinating on the last hug. Branded on his forearm in the silvery Outlander script of ritual burn are the words 'Blood-Splatters'.
You draw close to Mellone, leaning over to her, "What is the Outlander's War God's name?"
"Uh...' Knife-Song,' 'Waste' and 'Blood-Splatters.'" Mellone mumbles.
You and your entourage are seated in front of the palace, at a wide stone table filled with [dallahs] of tea, bowls of bread, and pastry pieces. OF note is one that you would call [baklava], were it stuffed with nuts as opposed to dried fruits. It's delicious, creamy, sweet, and sticky-- and would give you indigestion in the hot noon-day sun. But the chilled breads and sweet buns provide relief, especially when you sip on the cold and bitter tea provided. A military parade forms up, and you watch only half-interested. Instead, your datapad chirping draws your attention.
And you almost immediately slam it into the table. The screen scrambles for a second -- there, standing side by side with Eric in a wide plaza is the Demon armor. Thornton Warmachines stand at his side, firing their heavy weapons and ruining buildings -- not to mention Infected. A Colossus rips through the city --
William in the Demonic Armor sprints forward, tanking las-gun blasts and ramming his shoulder into the Colossus's stomach. The creature sways back -- and William slams a gun into its flesh, holding down the trigger -- the Colossus screams in agony. Eric and the Warmachines concentrate their fire--
"...so you're saying that you use calvary still? Even though you have hovercraft?" Cephie is playing her part well.
"Yes. They're good for endurance. They can refuel from the land, not a hydrogen plant." Bat nods, and you drag your attention from the datapad to watch the parade. Outlander outriders sit mounted upon [beasts of burden], saddles tucked into soft fur. Packs of food and gear are piled high on the muscular beast's back.
"Bos Prime." Ethan murmurs, "And they're using them as mounts still."
"Backwards." Finn nods.
"Backwards." Ethan agrees.
"Bos Prime?" You question.
"[Those things. They're Bos Prime -- cattle, beasts of burden, walking nutrient gatherers. Highly efficient. Every SEED world has them.]" Cephie explains, drawing close, "[They process plant matter of all kinds into several products. Milk, meat, wool.]"
The aqueduct stretches for miles across the Outlands' badlands, all the way to a tremendous eastern mountain change that blooms with greenery and life. Rivers and streams flow down the mountains, some ending uselessly in the desert, while others are capped with human-made structures that divert water into the massive aqueduct. You inspect it visually from the hovercraft, feeling the wind whip past your hair from the open doors.
Rekhyt approaches, all smiles. "Impressive, isn't it?"
"Yes. Very. It must have taken a long time."
"No, just a great many lives." Rekhyt points and you notice shallow patches of green spreading out beneath it -- square mounds dot the landscape. "Mass graves, for all the workers."
Your stomach turns, just as the hovercraft begins its descent towards an ornate palace that sits high in the mountains, nestled among black rock and gleaming spires that have thrust themselves from the earth. A great cypress forest stretches out, filled with towering redwood and an abundance of fauna. Moss covers the ground where pine needles do not. After a short walk upon a smooth granite path, where you see red [deer] and grazing Bos within the bountiful temperate rainforest, the Redwood Palace looms overhead.
Great pillars of redwood hold a glass ceiling aloft. The stone walls are graced with painted animal relief, and Barker Fur hangs from the rafters. Guards lounge nearby, but they seem less interested in you than in the forest near the palace. Pools of steaming hot water dot the glorified hunting lodge haphazardly, and leafy plants hang over them.
"Welcome to the [Redwood] Palace." Samkrend nods, gesturing with a sweeping hand over the courtyard, towards the pools hidden behind thin-cut, lacquered redwood screens. "Dinner will be served soon. Please, let our servants guide you to your rooms."
And they do. You collapse into a bed for a little while, pulling up the streaming app once again. Looking out through an opening in the wall, you notice the sun going down--
"It seems like the Crusader forces are being pushed back. The Temple Plaza has been lost, and the Crusaders are currently retreating across the ground. Air support is no longer viable." The blue humanoid reports, with a pout. "It seems the city of Achmil is about to be lost. Current Crusader casualties are at one hundred and twenty-eight. Of note, in Infected dead, is two Colossi, fifteen Insects, and a battalion's worth of Abominations. Stay tuned!"
Dinner service begins when night falls in the mountains. Snow drifts down from the sky, but the palace is quite warm. Roasts of all kinds dot firepits that smoke with aromatic woods. Chilled and warm tea sits offered alongside cold kefir. Groups mingle and form, but you have no mood for it. You eat quickly and ignore any conversation. The flavorful, herbed meats taste like ash in your mouth as you hurry back to your room.
Isela refuses to respond to your questions, only repeating two words: 'Opsec. Sorry.'
You want to scream at her, but you keep your cool, setting the datapad aside -- someone knocks at your door. Iyal stands in front of you, tossing reddish-brown hair over her shoulder. "[I was wondering if you would ever come to the hot springs.]"
She speaks quietly, tempting you.
"They're serving natural sorbet."
...natural sorbet?
You and Iyal/Cephie sit comfortably in the hot springs, munching on crushed ice covered in a sweet, sticky wine. You've been making small-talk for the last few minutes, but its slowed down as the two of you enjoy the rare treat in silence. Midnight came and went uneventfully--
"Want some drugs? I got some bug oil, [amphetamines], Smoke--" Cephie offers as Iyal.
Your datapad gives a ping, and you snatch it up.
"Or you could ignore me. Rude--"
"All Crusaders have been forced from the city of Achmil. It is a sad day indeed for the people of SEED--" The blue avatar sticks out a tongue and blows a raspberry. "Not! Now a word from our sponsor!"
Eric peels off his gas mask to smile at the camera. In one hand, he holds a bundle of wires and technology, in the other, a small timer that's ticking down. "Now, some of you might not know what this is, but this is a timer! Like a digital clock. This one is ticking down to midnight."
He holds up the bundle. "This is a fusion reactor's overload control matrix."
...5
...4
...3
...2
...1
The view switches -- and mushroom clouds explode across the city of Achmil. Debris and rubble spray out as abandoned buildings turn to glass -- and the Infected within the town turn to ash. Eric reappears, grinning, "I'm guessing, we just eliminated a few brigades of Abominations, maybe a couple of dozen Insects..and we probably may have damaged a Colossus. More importantly, we just disabled anti-aircraft in this region."
"...beautiful. But that's not all!" The camera angle shifts, the blue avatar appearing once again -- as dozens upon dozens of hovercraft streak out past the exploding town, raining autocannon round and las-fire across the blasted land, mopping up abomination and burning Insect. They fly towards plague territory. "Stayed tuned -- Captain Murdach is leading an assault on a nexus as we speak."
You begin to laugh, happily, hysterically, as Isela's name lights up on your screen. Cephie turned Iyal raises a brow. "Well, that lifted your mood pretty quickly."
You slump into the hot springs, wondering if you should scream at Isela or reward her.
Post by: ZBridges on September 17, 2020, 09:29:35 pm
"Do you think it was a coincidence that the Plague attacked while we were away, or was it intentional? How could the Plague have found out?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 17, 2020, 11:07:16 pm
An excellent strategy, not only did it cost the plague a great deal in soldiers but they gained nothing from it. The only downside was losing the town, you can not afford to repeat this, but neither can the plague, hopefully.
You should speak to Nicole about the prospects here. She seemed to know a great deal and it would be a waste to have her here and not see what mad manipulations she thinks she can get away with. How much wealth do they really have. If mobilized what power could the underclass and criminals here serve. How quickly could the industry be retooled for modern war. Are these soldiers really disciplined or is this just a show of military pomp.
Building a military industrial complex from close to nothing will be a challenge.
All the technology in the universe will not save you from cowardice and corruption.
Post by: Superdorf on September 17, 2020, 11:10:03 pm
As for the tour, we now know that three gods are among Samkrend's children. Which is the correct choice?
Bat has power; Atlan has money. Rekhyt has that coyote's wit and a hand in every [cookie jar]. Any will do, resource-wise.
I'd be more concerned with attitude. Who's pleasant to be around, and who's not? Who's easiest to steer?
Post by: ZBridges on September 17, 2020, 11:19:10 pm
Also, I hope this puts to rest everyone's outsized fears of the Demon Armor. Contrary to what several Ancestors said, it did not cause William to fall and become a Plague Lord, and it did not eat him. Obviously we should be cautious of it, but we should not be paralyzed by fear.
Post by: Superdorf on September 18, 2020, 01:21:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 18, 2020, 07:37:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 18, 2020, 07:59:40 am
With a stretch, Cephie turned Iyal wraps an arm around you and nuzzles into your collar bone. "You should answer Isela. It's probably a debrief."
Post by: Superdorf on September 18, 2020, 12:00:11 pm
...might want to keep your video feed off or some such. Just so's you're not showing off a certain someone at your shoulder.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 18, 2020, 12:26:17 pm
"Ah. Pheonix. Good Morning!" Isela offers cheerfully, then, with confusion, "Did you know your feed is off? If you just press the square sha--"
"Yes. Please continue debrief."
"Currently casualties are holding steady at one hundred and thirty-five Crusaders, fifty-seven of which are injured and relieved. The rest perished. Widows and children will be supported, standard clauses. Civilian casualties are at two hundred and five. The rest have been evacuated to neighboring towns and cities." Isela pauses. Cephie half-listens, and presses into your shoulder. You keep your attention on the business at hand.
"The townships to the north and south of Achmil report that the Infected assaults have become sporadic and disorganized after the detonation of Achmil's reactors. Reported casualties are reflected in the total. Eric and William are leading airbourne assaults on monoliths in the exclusion zone. We've knocked down three. Murdach is assaulting a nexu--" There's a loud ping from the other end.
"Speak of the demon. The regional resupply and 'communication' nexus has just been levelled. Murdach reports no casualties. They're linking up with Eric and intend to 'burn every fucking bug they see' on the way back." Isela nods, rubbing at the bags under her eyes. "Do you have any questions? The line is currently being secured, but the Clans can't keep it up for long."
Post by: ZBridges on September 18, 2020, 03:31:46 pm
"One other question: do you have an update on the expedition to the arkship?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 18, 2020, 04:24:57 pm
If adjustments need to be made to war machine production to counter the threats make sure Silas does so before continuing work on his project.
Also force Silas to get some rest, it is no use having a mad scientist burn himself out on just one project.
Rejoice that you have reliable subordinates.
Post by: King Zultan on September 19, 2020, 07:53:28 am
"What should our next step be? Should we plan an assault once our airship is ready, or should we remain on the defensive for now? Also, General, I am very pleased with your performance. Keep up the good work."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 21, 2020, 07:46:14 pm
"General. Does operational security still apply? You mentioned previously?" Cephie questions.
You flinch -- her voice is just like your's.
[14 vs 11]"Um, yes Mother Pheonix? What's the matter." Isela responds, frowning at the screen.
"I'm just curious. I did not receive any explanation of protocol changes with regards to sensitive operations. Make sure those are hand-delivered next time. By you. Thank you."
"Oh. Of course."
Cephie slips her hand off your mouth, leaning in to give you a peck on the neck. Her free hand presses the mute button -- "You owe me. Isela is playing at communication and information security." She gives you another kiss and gives a wicked, sharp smile, "But you knew that, didn't you? I hope you weren't going to ask any revealing questions."
You hesitate, then unmute yourself and speak, "I am very pleased with your performance General. Please make a rundown on how our units operated individually and as a group. I wish to see squads of our troops taking down Insects and Colossi without interference from Eric, William, or Myself."
Do you still ask the suggested questions?
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 21, 2020, 08:18:35 pm
In the future you should see about creating disinformation over the radio of some sort to blur where people think your assets are.
Post by: ZBridges on September 21, 2020, 08:51:49 pm
Tell her to continue taking measures she feels are appropriate to both this theater and the overall war effort.
She did say the line is being secured, but I guess even that isn't particularly secure. It looks like the decision to use ciphers didn't survive the destruction of the Holy City.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 21, 2020, 09:25:23 pm
"Thank you. Good morning, Mother Pheonix." Isela bows her head and then cuts the feed.
Cephie lays against you as you finish your melted sorbet. The two of you sit quietly together, enjoying the relaxation of the natural hotsprings in silence. Stress eases from your frame in the hot waters, and while it doesn't quite penetrate your thermal regulation, it still provides enough comfort that you shut your eyes and drift.
[18] The door pops open, and Cephie straightens in a bolt-- Rekhyt steps through and shuts it behind him with a slam.
"Ah! Pheobe. Good to see you still in one piece. And here. I had to open a lot of doors to find you." He states, his eyes finding Cephie turned Iyal. They pass over her and back to you. "Enjoying the hospitality?"
"Y-yes." You stammer.
"Hmmh. You know, your Crusader is missing, but he was certainly a man." Rekhyt drops into the water far across from you, leaning back. "So, learned anything interesting?"
Post by: ZBridges on September 21, 2020, 09:31:23 pm
Post by: King Zultan on September 22, 2020, 05:37:22 am
"Are you really so starved for the company of women, Rekhyt? Regardless, I learned that your siblings are the gods of money and war. What are they like, and how is your relationship with them?"+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 22, 2020, 03:18:17 pm
[10 vs 1+2] A knife twists through the air -- you only catch a flash of silver before it embeds itself into Cephie's defensive hand. Her face curls itself into a snarl, the tan skin of her face bunching to reveal her incredibly sharp teeth.
"You fucking crazy Outlander bastard!" She growls, pulling the knife from her hand and sending it flying into the water. It isn't anywhere close to Rekhyt -- the wound stops bleeding as it heals rapidly.
"Ah. Pointed teeth. You've stopped bleeding already -- and you called me an Outlander." Rekhyt rests his chin on his hand. He looks to you then, "Another of your demonic kind?"
Post by: ZBridges on September 22, 2020, 03:41:33 pm
Post by: Superdorf on September 22, 2020, 05:12:53 pm
...jealousy nothing. That knife was thrown to silence someone who'd heard too much.
Put a little bite in your words for me, hm? That could've killed a lesser companion.
Post by: ZBridges on September 22, 2020, 05:26:53 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 22, 2020, 10:20:01 pm
"There was no jealousy in that." Cephie snaps, "These Outlanders test things with the point of their knives."
"It's one way of getting to the point, no?" Rekhyt quips, cheerfully, his grin curling wider. "You have some experience with our ways."
"Mmh. Enough to not take offense." Cephie nods, slowly shifting, changing her features until they reflect her true self. The pale, black-haired waif leans against you. Just as tall as you and adroygenous in appearance. Gone are the rough feminine features of Iyal, and the dark skin. She smiles her razor's edge smile at Rekhyt. "But if you do that again, I will murder you in your sleep."
"You can try, but point taken." Rekhyt quips again, nodding.
"This is Cephie." You offer, after a beat, trying hard not to draw attention to yourself in the middle of two circling Barkers. "I'm glad you two set aside your...grievences? None of us are enemies here-"
"Ye-" Both begin, catching themselves when the other speaks.
[15]"But, Rekhyt, I am no Outlander." You begin, quiet and calm, keeping a firm grip on the temper that threatens to rise up. There is no need to use your Voice, no, you deliver just enough menace without it. "If you continue to attack my allies, that will definitely change."
"...I can respect your wishes, Goddess." Rekhyt nods, after a moment's consideration, his tilted head straightening. "Yes. My siblings have their parts to play. Elder siblings always get the best toys. Especially so when they're more favored. What of our relationship? The only reason we haven't killed each other is because our father will disinherit the first one to make an open move. They support mass slavery and all the sins that go along with that. "
"But," Rekhyt begins, nodding, "They have power and wealth, and you need both for war. Especially if Samkrend dies during the campaign..."
Post by: ZBridges on September 22, 2020, 10:35:55 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 22, 2020, 10:38:57 pm
Post by: ZBridges on September 22, 2020, 10:43:18 pm
Post by: Superdorf on September 22, 2020, 11:55:19 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 23, 2020, 01:10:34 am
Wait, do you? If you win what would you do, seize the power the noble wields, turn it on the core. Figure out what really went down in the Empyrial succession? Live as a pirate queen in the reaches?
Post by: King Zultan on September 23, 2020, 06:46:25 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 23, 2020, 08:24:52 am
"You didn't strike me as the ruling type." Rekhyt nods, "But if no throne interests you, then what would your plans be?"
"Adventure. The sky is full of stars, and around those stars float worlds more fascinating than any throne." You give a faint smile.
"But nothing is so easy for royalty. Is it [daughter of Sol]?" Cephie questions, rhetorically. "Bound by the honor of your line. Would your ancestors be satisfied with your wanderlust? Or would they prefer you to uphold their name?"
Rekhyt looks to you, smiling faintly. "The Prince's question."
Post by: Superdorf on September 23, 2020, 11:50:20 am
You are Phoenix-of-Sol. You are Phoebe Gainer. If you burn your name into the Void, I will be proud. If you find freedom, comfort on other worlds... I will be content.
Post by: ZBridges on September 23, 2020, 04:16:24 pm
Post by: King Zultan on September 24, 2020, 06:51:21 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 24, 2020, 11:51:47 pm
"A prince but never a true king. He conquered the world he knew and when he found a boundary his men refused to cross he weeped." You finish, "But to him, it was never about the land, or the title. Nor to establish an Empire in his name to last forever. It was all for himself."
Cephie doesn't speak, nuzzling back into your shoulder. One sleepy eye is fixed on Rekhyt, and her Willpower coils like a spring around him.
"...I have many questions, Phoebe, but my first is this: what are your 'ground' rules?" Rekhyt slouches back, rubbing at his chin and the shadow of facial hair covering it.
Post by: ZBridges on September 25, 2020, 12:22:34 am
"I ask that you do not act violently towards my people unless you must do so in order to preserve your life. What are your ground rules?"
Post by: Superdorf on September 25, 2020, 12:51:33 am
(Alexander of Macedon! To think, that his story should be kicking about still... have you other stories like that? Old history lessons of Alphira's?)
To clarify this "ground rule": we don't want Rekhyt enacting violence (outside of self-defence) towards our people, or on our land, without our sanction. The rest beyond that isn't so much a ground rule as a question of alliance.
Rekhyt's got more questions-- let's play this slow, leave him space to ask. This looks to be interesting.
Post by: ZBridges on September 25, 2020, 01:00:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 25, 2020, 09:46:46 am
I learned much from your memories, Red-Star 'Constantinus'. I hope you don't mind my perusal of your collection. I did not pry.
Maintaining two conversations is easy as you lay out the first simple ground rule. You deliver it in Outlander, to make sure the point is clear to the troublesome prince. "No more testing the metal of my people with a literal point. No more murders in my land, unless I request it so. Even if they are Outlander. [William, as Minister of my Internal Affairs] can also make such requests."
"What of Emma?" Cephie questions.
"What of Emma?" You retort, bluntly. "If she wanted someone dead she wouldn't have to ask."
Rekhyt grins from across the hot spring, his fingers drumming on the bronze-colored ceramic tile. "Lover's quarreling aside -- I agree to your ground rule -- but only if you tell me of [Ancient Earth]."
"No one knows why [Sol system] is uninhabitable -- or why the Empyre keeps a picket and blockade on it's gates." Cephie volunteers, before turning expectantly to you. "Tell us, oh honored Dust-Elder-- of Ancient [Earth]."
What do you tell of Ancient Earth?
Post by: Superdorf on September 25, 2020, 03:40:41 pm
Your chances at a wider education are sparse here, alas. You could try the cognitive pods back home for historic archives, or your datapad... but how much of that time would be better spent in preparation for Magnus? Until that wretch of a noble dies, you've a [sword of Damocles] over your head.
When we get off Mercenary's Rest, we'll chase down all the tutelage this galaxy can offer, if you like-- more than I could ever tell! Until then... my memory-banks are open, always. Access what you will.
<Sol System uninhabitable... what happened there? Do we know?>
The history of old Terra... good grief.
Where do we even start? Herodotus? Thucydides? Genesis?
Post by: ZBridges on September 25, 2020, 04:04:05 pm
I would recommend tutors in history, rhetoric, and maybe theology or philosophy, if you are going to continue to pretend to be a god. Knowing the theodicies, for example, could help you with difficult questions from Eric or others. Of course, you would need to balance this learning with your many other responsibilities.
Perhaps we should start with some of the more ancient empires? The rise and fall of the Assyrians, who ruled with fear and thus had few willing allies when the empire began to collapse, may be instructive. Hammurabi's Code, of Babylon, would serve as a good introduction to primitive law systems.
Post by: King Zultan on September 26, 2020, 06:49:15 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 29, 2020, 12:28:26 pm
Rekhyt draws himself out of the water and wraps a towel around himself, taking a seat outside the pool. He dries his hands on it, then waves his pruned fingers at you. "Are you truly gods? I don't believe it, but many things about you still raise questions."
You lift your hand from the water and glance down at it -- perfectly smooth. The water drips off of your fingertips, and there is no pruning, no wrinkles.
"[Should I answer, Patches?]" Cephie questions, lifting her head from your shoulder.
Post by: Superdorf on September 29, 2020, 12:50:19 pm
"Our kind is immortal. Powerful. Human, but more-than-human. This was given to us by man."
Post by: ZBridges on September 29, 2020, 02:50:35 pm
"As your people say: man makes gods."+1
"Our kind is immortal. Powerful. Human, but more-than-human. This was given to us by man."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on September 29, 2020, 10:35:43 pm
"Make me one, and I will swear myself to you."
"[If he takes a vow in High Empyreal, there will be consequences if he breaks it, as an Ascended.]" Cephie muses aloud in low Empyreal; she doesn't even favor Rekhyt with a glance, her eyes on you. Fascination and adoration in equal measure. "[Or we could string him along. Ascended do that to many mortals on backwaters like these.]"
You muse in --
*PING*
You glance down at your datapad, confused.
Spoiler: Valhol's Retributionist's Live War Stream (click to show/hide)
Rekhyt had found his way to your shoulder, watching with awe. The translator turning the gibberish into his Outlander Tongue, "Maybe just a suit of that armor..."
Post by: ZBridges on September 29, 2020, 10:49:19 pm
Having another Ascended sworn to us, however, could have its advantages.
Post by: King Zultan on September 30, 2020, 07:55:05 am
Post by: Superdorf on September 30, 2020, 06:49:44 pm
"Do you understand now the scale of this war? I'd be fighting there now, if I wasn't busy trying to keep your nation from suicide."
"Tell me, Rekhyt... what would you do with armor like that, given the chance? What would you hope to gain from its use?"
Post by: VoidSlayer on September 30, 2020, 10:45:01 pm
Anyway, it would CERTAINLY not do to have the son of an ally die screaming right before a wedding, but maybe afterwards?
Or if you want to marry him it could be your dowry. Pass or fail, it would certainly make an impression.
I don't really see why you need to keep beating him over the head with the scale of the whole thing. This fool has ambition enough to ask a god for their power.
Post by: Superdorf on September 30, 2020, 11:04:18 pm
I'm reluctant to offer him blood, dowry or otherwise-- that strength is better kept with the whole. Cybernetics, perhaps, we could arrange.
Post by: ZBridges on October 01, 2020, 09:45:17 pm
Post by: King Zultan on October 02, 2020, 11:54:11 am
Post by: ZBridges on October 06, 2020, 04:56:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 06, 2020, 11:33:33 pm
Rekhyt nods, "I understand the scale of your war well. It does not change my mind. The Outlands will follow you -- but for how long? Would it not be better to have me owe you a great debt? Something that places me beneath your thumb?"
"I would find my freedom, Pheobe, with the godhood your technology offers." The man tilts his head, starting to pull on his clothing, "Is that not admirable?"
Post by: ZBridges on October 06, 2020, 11:39:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 07, 2020, 12:17:30 am
Post by: ZBridges on October 07, 2020, 12:23:33 am
Post by: King Zultan on October 07, 2020, 02:52:25 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on October 07, 2020, 03:34:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 12, 2020, 09:41:02 pm
Spoiler: Ascended Oaths (click to show/hide)
"That is true, isn't it, Pheobe?" Rekhyt nods, slinging his bag over his shoulder with a frown. "You learn quickly! I'm proud of you. Perhaps you can give it to me as a wedding gift. My freedom in exchange for an empire."
"Would you really trade this empire for that?" You question, raising a brow.
"I would trade more than that. I'd trade the world, but I only have an empire to give."
"And how would you deliver it to me?"
"Oh, you know. I've my ways. First is to get you accepted as an Outlander, no?"
"I suppose that would be a start."
"And not just any Outlander. One of note." He tosses a parchment map towards your side of the pool, and Cephie retrieves with a tendril of black carbon from her pile of gear, drawing it close to you and keeping the water from ruining it. "I leave the selection to you. Two will accompany you. An Outlander ally and the witness. No weapon besides a knife. No [demon magic]. Leather and iron armor."
Spoiler: Rekhyt's Notes (click to show/hide)
"These do not inspire confidence in me, Rekhyt." You murmur, as Cephie folds away the map and notes.
"But they will inspire confidence in others. You will become a legend." Rekhyt retorts, then bows, turning away. "I would make an announcement soon. Tommorow, at breakfast -- after all, what better place to call a hunt than a hunting lodge?"
You watch him slip out the door, and sigh. The water and company no longer feel warm, and you can feel your shoulders ache. You rise, dressing and retiring to your room with Cephie in tow.
There's a knock at your door, and a call for 'Breakfast!' from a cheerful servant. The bed is cold, and Cephie has already left your side. The datapad on the nightstand gives a ping, but you don't bother to look at it. Not yet.
Post by: ZBridges on October 12, 2020, 11:01:08 pm
Post by: King Zultan on October 13, 2020, 05:41:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 14, 2020, 11:33:14 pm
With your morning stretches and isometrics out of the way, you gather your scattered clothes and pull them on. Some are more difficult than others, but you manage and smooth out the wrinkles the best you can with your available hand. You check yourself in a copper mirror, straightening your collar.
And then, for a little too long, you stare at yourself in the mirror. Your hair is long again, hanging down to your back, your skin has tanned to match the hue of most of this planet's people -- a bronzy brown of melanin that protects from the harsh, yellow sun -- More to fit in. If a miniature sun can't give me cancer then a distant one definitely won't.
Your datapad pings, again and again, breaking you out of your reverie, and you brush the hair from your face and pick up the stolen device.
Spoiler: Tasks (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Datapad (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on October 15, 2020, 02:25:22 am
Ask Geoyde and Armsmith to determine what is needed to safely begin interstellar trade using our credits, even if it just means having goods discreetly delivered.
Also ask Armsmith and Isela what our options are for collecting more intel on the Plague. How can we safely estimate its strength and area of control?
Determine what wealth is avaliable to us at the local bank of the fire goddess.
Reasearch how cyberwarfare is conducted in the Void.
To William: It's alright. I'm just glad you're safe. What did that thing put you through?
To Flesh: what are you constructing?
Post by: King Zultan on October 15, 2020, 03:39:28 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 16, 2020, 03:14:59 am
Spoiler: Queued tasks and questions? (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Datapad (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on October 16, 2020, 03:49:12 am
Also I had a feeling that the armour would do something terrible like that.
Post by: ZBridges on October 16, 2020, 03:44:06 pm
1. Nothing comes to mind.
3. No they are not. The last thing we would want is for them to figure out that everything SEED has told them is a lie. If they want to look up information, they can send a request to Emma, who can look up the information, make necessary redactions, and then send the requested info to the other ministers.
4. It does sound like the Pirates would be useful for this task.
5. Just the local Samkrend bank. I think we already scheduled a visit to the main temple.
6. I was wondering whether sabotage could slow down Magnus's fleet. Our lack of technology suggests that retaliatory strikes would have little effect on us. It could also be useful defensively if we are able to enter the Void on our own.
7. Yes. Let Isela know that you will be going to the site.
To Flesh: "I'll look into it." add obtaining these items to the task list
To William: "Gods... take as long as you need. I'm sorry you had to go through that. Do you want the armor to be punished in some way? Should we get rid of it?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 16, 2020, 09:41:43 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on October 17, 2020, 08:19:42 pm
1. Talk with Cephie about personal enhancement like strength and speed and how to best train them. Also maybe ask what her plans would be if you do succeed in your crazy task of taking down or fending off the noble.
2. Make the announcement at the fire temple?
3. This planet is apparently pretty far from the nearest wormhole. Could we get anything to us faster then the noble will get here? Space manipulation could theoretically be used for trade if there have been advancements to it, but wormholes are the gold standard of FTL travel.
4. I would recommend focusing scouting on the scar of the holy city and the front to support the war effort. Any scouting of the edges give only limited benefit as the crusaders can not really project force out there anyway.
7. Again the cryo coffins could be anything from a SEED experiment that the numbers are KEEPING FROM YOU to the original source materials for the cloning. Did we get confirmation that this ship is where McCreary came from? If so then SEED might have learned about it before Nicole.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 17, 2020, 08:34:27 pm
>Fifty years ago the only advancement was an AI controlled ship that managed to hit .99 light speed. It was still slower than the Empyrean Relay System. It was also tiny.
Post by: VoidSlayer on October 17, 2020, 09:07:50 pm
Maybe the best thing you could trade for then would be designs for things above the technical abilities of the SEED database. Maybe some advanced gene mods to add to the loomed humans? Seems like that would have to wait until several iterations of advancement though.
Though a dedicated courier or trade ship might make better time then a war fleet.
Post by: ZBridges on October 18, 2020, 01:49:46 am
Post by: King Zultan on October 18, 2020, 07:36:34 am
Post by: ZBridges on October 18, 2020, 02:19:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 20, 2020, 03:34:32 am
Spoiler: Fleet Cyberwarfare (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Relay Security (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Noble Security (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Datapad (click to show/hide)
You give one final stretch and one final glance to the datapad before heading out to your breakfast-y fate.
The dining hall is carved out of the same redwood as the rest of the lodge. Furs hang down from the rafters over ornate, abstract frescos that call to mind cave paintings. On one side, arches lead out to a courtyard garden, filled with mushrooms, drooping plants, and carefully maintained cypresses that one could call [bonsai]. A great table fills the center of the room. It is dressed in all manner of foods; steaming dumplings, juicy meats from fowl and fauna alike, chilled yogurts topped with fruits, and golden-grey Outlander rolls. Many Outlanders mill around, forming clumps and packs and discussing things as they eat, and your people are mixed within these groups -- but each of them stands close together. The Twins hover menacingly nearby their charges -- at their beck and call should any danger arise. Nicole, Rekhyt, and Samkrend all sit close by in one of the alcoves, murmuring as they lounge on qiviut pads.
You gather a plate of food, stacking it high. Doing so, you catch Emma's eye. She breaks away from her conversation and approaches you, stepping outside to a small freestanding structure. Rain pours down on the roof, giving you some privacy until Cephie arrives. The two of you converse in low Empyreal, to keep your conversation a secret from Outlander ears.
"Good morning, Pheonix." Emma states, picking at a roll and not meeting your gaze. "What did you want to discuss?"
"I want you to assign Geoyde and Armssmith to determine what we might need to begin safe interstellar trade." You calmly explain, and Emma gives a nod. "They are not allowed to use the network, but you can give them information that might be pertinent from it. Make the necessary redactions."
"Alright. We'll see if its possible."
"Next, I want you to assign Armssmith and Isela the task of securing more intel on the Plague, especially the scar of the Holy City and the new front. Get the pirates involved, if you have to. They seem to have high altitude crafts that could be of use in that regard."
"Anything else?" Emma states, after another nod.
"No. Thank you. Have a safe trip." And with your dismissal, Emma turns and leaves. You breathe out a sigh, releasing the tension in your shoulders as you wait for Cephie to approach you. The Crusader who's face she wears steps close, and takes a seat facing away from the arches. Her body doesn't change, but her face does, and Cephie smiles with sharp teeth from the Crusader's helmet. She picks up a dumpling and chews at it merrily, then uses a knife to stab at some meat on her plate. You return her smile and eat in comfortable silence for a time, until you decide to interrupt it to ask;
"How is it?"
"Pretty good. Food's good too." Cephie nods.
"Yeah." Quietly, you pick at your meal. "What's the best way to train my strength and speed? As an Ascended?"
"You would think the Elders would have told you that, by now, but we're basically the same as baseline. Train. Muscles get damaged. Repair themselves stronger over time to help us adapt to adverse environments. We could work out together, but I think I need to stick around Nicole for a while. Emma and one of the twins are leaving for the Holy Land, and Mellone, Nicole, and I are planning on continuing diplomacy with you."
"Yeah, stick around them for a bit. I need to take care of something." You pause, taking the silence to eat a piece of bread slathered in honey and melted butter. "Hey Ceph? Can I ask you something?"
"You just did, but you can ask another question."
[-]"What are your plans...if, and this may sound crazy, if I win against Magnus?" You ask, quietly.
Cephie doesn't speak for a while. She doesn't tense up or look upset. With a frown, she finally offers, "I'd probably have to return to the Core to continue working for his family. They may execute me for failure, but considering my family, that would be the best outcome."
Neither of you speak until you finish your meals. Cephie leaves without goodbye. Then, you're left alone to watch the rain patter against the hot springs.
"I intend to take a flight over the Outlands today. There's a task I must attend to." You explain, bluntly, to Rekhyt and Samkrend as the two lounge comfortably upon their padding. "To the north."
Samkrend rubs his bearded chin. "And you intend to fight Ripper soon, to prove your good faith to your marriage?"
"I do. But there is something I must attend to first."
Samkrend gestures to a bodyguard, who removes a patch of multi-colored cloth from his bag and presents it to you. "The clans will not bother you on this task."
You dip your head in a nod. Samkrend returns it politely. You step into the courtyard, freeing your willpower, and on the wings of Sol you rise into the sky. You suck the hydrogen from the water on your coat and in your hair, leaving you perfectly dry as you fly over the temperate rainforest of the far eastern Outlands. You clear your mind, feeling the stress ease away as you fly through the sky. Tiring of the rain, you rise as high as you can, past the clouds, and look out over a field of grey kissed by the mid-morning sun. Reorientating yourself with the planet's magnetic field, you continue your flight to the Arkship site all the while exulting in the freedom of the moment.
The site is tucked away into a great mesa -- kept hidden by sheer cliffs and perlious falls. You set down by the Crusader Hovercrafts, stifling your wings as you stride towards a great gatehouse framed by immense 'concrete' pillars. The three Crusaders on guard duty bow their heads as you approach, and the Pirate that lounges nearby gives a bored wave. Powered by a solar generator a dull system of lights illuminates the depths of the structure. You can see perfectly, however, you feel a tinge of concern for your troops. You descend into the hangar and stop short when the hallway ends in a great catwalk.
The Arkship isn't complete, that much is true, but despite that, the state of the ship still catches you off guard. It's composite hull is still polished, gleaming a steel grey in the dull lights of the drydock. [400] meters from nose to tail, and nearly [100] meters tall. It dwarfs the massive stockpiles of food and industrial supplies beneath it with its rounded, smooth bulk. It hangs suspended from great magnetic manipulation clamps, ready to be angled towards the sky to provide a last-ditch escape to six thousand lucky individuals -- chosen by lottery to increase genetic diversity among the surviving group, with one thousand of those individuals to be Crusaders with good military records and nothing but loyalty to SEED.
The only issue is the complete and utter lack of an engine. Where one should be there is only an incomplete patchwork of tubes and nozzles. You drum your fingers on a rail until a young Crusader approaches.
After some introductions that you forget, he leads you to a wide catwalk and you enter the ship. It was designed for easy loading of passengers, and as such you find yourself in the cryopod bay. A group of Crusader stands far away from the two 'coffins' they discovered. They stand uneasy, with rifles in hand and tense, squared shoulders. They do not speak when you approach or when you step pass the clump --
Two echoes radiate out from the coffins. The air smells of blood and pepper and pineapple. The back of your throat begins to sting, and you taste something metallic. Faint whispers of rage and pain echo out. Half-formed thoughts of revenge. Of anger. You come to stand between the two coffins, and, with gentle probing of your own willpower, you note the small-scale arithmetic of the two Ascended within. The instinctual command of a corpse, you think, caused by the degradation of the cryo-pods.
The Dust is building a protective cocoon. One of iron...and one of... You consult your datapad and wince -- glad your Crusaders are clad in gasmasks, ...Chlorine
[5][7]The instinctive arithmatic speeds up as you approach -- trying to protect the valuable Dust within from a threat.
Spoiler: Tasks (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Datapad (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: King Zultan on October 20, 2020, 05:11:17 am
Post by: ZBridges on October 20, 2020, 03:11:06 pm
Send out our will to the Dust within the pods and try to somehow convey that we are not a threat. If that doesn't stop the arithmetic, use our will to dominate the Dust to stop it from attacking us or resisting.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 20, 2020, 11:40:21 pm
[-]Greater divinity tempts with... You fight not to fall to the floor as vertigo overtakes you. Blood drips from your nose, and you wipe at it with a cuff -- and only then do you realize your wings have unfurled themselves. They burn white and hot and pure -- ...an Endless sin. Amaranth. Everlasting.
--and with that warning, your wings fade to their regular red-pocked, golden brilliance. You stifle the equation and they fade away -- but arithmetic remains. It gives you a numbing headache...and an odd hunger.
New Power unlocked: H̴̡̢̢͖̯̩̝̘͇͚̣͉͖̱̪̪̖͖̻͕͕̰̤̫͈͇̞̳̯̰̫̲̱̙̊͑̋̓́ͅų̸̢̹͚̫̯͓̻͚̗͊́́̓͛̀̊̐̽̿͂̓͋͛͂̽́̒̿̌͋͗̅̌̇͗̄̊̇̾̕͝͠͠n̵̡̧̛̛̻̰̬͚̱̤̮̻̖͚̩̖̻̳̞̿̂͊̈̍̐̏͑́͂͑̆̈̐̉̒̑̓̽͒͗͆̆͆̎̽̀̅̂̑͗̽͘͝͝͠g̶̛̺͕̬̳͈̪̤͍̗̞̐̌̃̅̏͗̒̆͂̈́͐͊̃̏̐̋͆́͊̈̔͂̆̈̇̈̈́͒̀̽͝͠ę̵̡̨̨̥̘̭̘̖̼͇̹͈̥̖̦̲̦͕̘̭̩͈͎͖̯̇̎̍̓̀̃̊̌̔̽̿̚͜͜͜͠͝r̵͈̘̝͔̜͌̆̌̚͝͝ ̴̺̻̲͈̫̩͍͓̦̝͐͂̏̾͒̈́͆̓͑́́́̔̎̇̋̈́͂̔̇̄̃͗̀͆̕͘̕͠ö̵̡̨̡̧̘̫̪̱̯̗̤̩̟̣̼́̄͋̾͌̿̈͂̐̆̋ͅf̷̊́̿̌͒͊͂̍͜ ̴̧̨̡̛̭̳͔͔̤͓̦̺̝͇̬̩̘̗͚̲̰̟͕͉̻̲̂͑̈́͑̓̋͆͋̍͊̾͌̚͝͝͝͝ṱ̶̢̡̢̧̛̛̗̮̥̬͈̙̙̖̯͐̓̒̍̄͊̑̃̉̈́̑̽͗͂̾̓͋̈́͗̋͛͂̀̏̉̑̉̄̾́̚̚͠͝ͅh̶̨̧̨̛̛̼͖̟͇̤͖̮̝͎̯͎͕̤̩͉̥̬̖̰̘̬̭̪͉̮͉̼̻̊͛̌̉̎̑̽̈́̓̅̂̈́̽̈́̂̂̃́̽̒̎̍͌̏͑̇̊́͘͘͜͝ͅͅę̴̡̧̩̥̣̹͍̩̮̤͎̖̙̟̼̠̩̤͕̬͙̌̓͂́͑͗̐̍̅̑̀̉̏̐̎̌̐̌̇̎̉̏͋̐͋͗͒̏́͊͂̈́̕͘͜͜͜͝͠ ̸̨̢̢̨̡̪̮̠͚̩͔̙̯̳͙̜͕͇̭̱̗̯̞̗̗̲͚͔͑̎̈̎̍̅͌͂̔̾̑͋́̽̍́̂̚͜͜͜ͅͅͅǦ̶̠̱͉͖̆̏̂̀̈́͋̈̌̔̀̊̃͗̔͐͗͐̒͆͌̃̈̀̃͆͌͝͝͝ͅh̷̢̢̧̨̧̢̢̝̫͖̦̝̲͖͈͉͈̙̰̹̮̤̙̙̖̬̯̅̎̔͆͑̀͘͜ų̶̜̪̬̗̖̤̱̥̤̰͕̯͉̦͕̼̻͈̫̞̼̟̯̗̰͎̲̰̦̳̘̗̣̞̬̓͛ļ̸̢̪̠̯͇̠̞̘̩̱̘̰̜͈̦̜̙̩̣͙͙̺̼̳̿̈̈̏̿̅͊̊̽̀̓̊͂̽͐͗͆͐̄̽͊̈́̔̇͘͝͝ͅ
̶̨͖͇͗̈́̌̂̅̄́̈́͊̓̈́̊̂̄̽͐̀̀̐̈́́͘
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on October 20, 2020, 11:54:59 pm
I think we should eat the Dust.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 21, 2020, 12:01:44 am
The Dust is acting to protect itself in an autonomic manner. Considering the energy requirements it's probably cannibalizing the bodies to do so. They're probably degraded past resuscitation.
((One Vote for consuming the Dust. Three are required, but more players and readers can chime in! If you decide to consume it, there can be more line elders for those that want one of those! Pm me if interested. And if not -- I don't really mind either way!))
Post by: King Zultan on October 21, 2020, 02:05:30 am
Also if it won't harm us I see no reason not to eat the dust.
Post by: VoidSlayer on October 21, 2020, 02:13:58 am
Or if you want to consume them and seek the path of divinity and damnation you could.
I think I should clarify what Amaranth means.
You consumed McCleary's dust but that was a one off, not a conscious decision. Choosing to do this yourself would mean other things...
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 21, 2020, 02:44:25 am
Spoiler: The Amaranthe Sins of The Ascended -- Open To Editing (click to show/hide)
The Death Child and the Twisted Wire. Both were 'demons' in the eyes of SEED... A quick search on your pad turns up no real information. There are apparently hundreds of Pirates, rebels, misfits and Spacers that match the description of these two, especially when all you have to go on is their assumed Line Element. ...they killed hundreds--maybe a thousand Crusaders between the two of them. But their remaining strength is weak. It suggests that both were probably still quite youthful in their Ascendency...
I...I still don't know what I want with my life...but...this could help us beat the Plague and Magnus...
Post by: ZBridges on October 21, 2020, 02:50:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 27, 2020, 04:20:56 am
"You look like you have a hard choice in front of you." Their voice doesn't help your determination of gender, but they speak with gentle authority. With a voice of reason and calm. "Whenever I had a hard choice, I flipped a coin."
They tug it from a pouch -- and it's a curious thing. One side is the dark greyish black of rusting patina, the other a bright gold. The two segments are merged together without a fault. One side reads [Ferdinand and Elisabeth, by the Grace of God], and depicts wolves and lions among four castles. The other side reads, [King and Queen of Castile, Leon, Aragon], and shows a yoke and quiver of arrows. The Pirate smiles and continues to explain while you turn the coin over in your hand, "Pirate or Navy, was my choice. An old Spacer gave me this while I stood on the dock. Told me 'Whatever it may land on, dedicate yourself to it. No matter the cost.' The best advice I ever received."
"One or the other. I have to choose?" You question, quietly.
"Maybe. Some say that if you flip a coin enough times it lands on its edge." The Pirate laughs, a genuine, happy sound. "Good luck, Patches!"
You frown and look up from the coin -- only to find that no one stands near you. The Crusaders mill nearby, stoic and silent save for the hiss of their gas masks.
Do you flip the coin or decide to devour the Dust?
Post by: King Zultan on October 27, 2020, 06:00:43 am
Post by: ZBridges on October 27, 2020, 02:13:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 30, 2020, 02:29:02 am
It spins.
Upon the smooth metal floors of the Arkship, it lands on its edge.
...Around it, the future lays coiled. Timelines stretch into infinity from this point: cause and effect. Repercussions and consequences. Peril. Danger. Martyrdom and sin.
The gold side shows you lying upon the ground. Magnus the Younger stands above, staring down. A cutter blade burns through your chest. It's hilt in your breast. You choke on blood and grip the burning blade with your bare hands -- and you spit a wad of gore into Magnus' face. The last thing you see is the infinite expanse of stars above. Your soul flies free.
The death of a matyr. A heroic death.
The side of lead shows something different. You sit in a vast and empty throne room. Barely lit. Dim, with high windows. No one stands beside you, but one kneels before you: a teenager with brown hair and sullen features. His face reminds only of old agonies. A dull ache that never entirely fades. He looks at you with anger, with suppressed rage and angst.
"Swear it, Moore Thornton."
"I swear it, Empress. You will die by my hand. For your crimes, you will die."
Or of a tyrant. A just death.
...you kneel on the floor, having fallen. The coin still stands on its edge, and you snatch it up. You scrub at the tears on your face and take deep ragged breaths to calm yourself.
The scent of blood, pineapple, and pepper hang heavy in the air.
Post by: ZBridges on October 30, 2020, 03:43:25 am
Post by: King Zultan on October 30, 2020, 06:43:13 am
Where's the smell of pineapples coming from?
Post by: ZBridges on October 30, 2020, 03:34:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on October 30, 2020, 03:43:44 pm
Post by: King Zultan on October 31, 2020, 05:10:14 am
Post by: Eschar on November 02, 2020, 04:26:26 pm
So I vote we assimilate the Dust. There will be consequences, but we'll
Phoebe yourself, any thoughts?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 05, 2020, 12:14:42 am
"Leave me." You call to your Crusaders. The dutiful stoics bow their heads and leave the cryosleep bay. You hear their boots echoing on the metal floors. They fade, and you're left with your Predecessors. You open the caskets and stare down at the half-mummified bodies. Faces like a ghastly reflection stare back at you. Faded red and faded green hang limply over drawn and stretched faces. Patches of chlorine gas and rusted iron dot their respective bodies.
[20][
You run the equation, forcing the arithmetic of your willpower upon the sleeping corpses that lie at your mercy. Your override the Iron Ascended's flagging willpower, separating the Dust from the corpse. There is a struggle, but it is brief. Electromagnetic forces converge and sharpen. It begins as a faint stream, then becomes a cloud of black, smokey dust. You keep it suspended by the hydrogen atoms in the complex nano-circuitry.
The Chlorine Ascended provides more of a struggle, and your nose drips blood from the battle. Your stomach and head throb painfully, but you do not leave a task unfinished. You push through the agony, and the Dust flows free.
[17-5]Then you screw your eyes shut. Your mesmer fails as the Dust of the dead flows over your black skin. Pain, like millions of bone-deep, stabbing needles, threatens to drive you to your knees. You scream until your vocal cords tear themselves apart, but you focus on the arithmetic. Just as your screaming doesn't end when you rip your vocal cords, the pain does not pass when you finish the equation. It only intensifies.
[12-5][6-5] Iron and hydrochloric acid twist themselves together uncontrollably from your skin. The iron itches and you quickly stop the process before too much of your skin is marked with rust by the eddies of untamed willpower. But the acid -- the acid burns away flesh, however, and your bloody tears fall to the silvery metal as you lay upon the cold, hissing floor of the Arkship.
You cannot contain your willpower, and your wings twist themselves free -- shifting and curling. They darken red, until you're dwarfed by the blood-colored 'feathers' of a wild corruption of your natural arithmetic.
[6-5][14-5]Memories of a dozen past lives burn through your brain, threatening to override your own personality matrixes-- 0̴̨̡̧̧̢̢͖̗͇̮̯͇̺̘̜̳̮̩̳͎̖͓̱͇̩̫̪͈͎̺̽̉̆̿̒͂͌̄̔̔̎̄̑̋̚͠ͅ0̶̨̨̲̥̝̞̹̫̞͇̟̟͇̫̻͇̫̭̰͕̣̱̭̜̺̥͓̺͓̹̘̝̗̖̘̳̱̩͇͎̹̫̮̩͑͊̎̆̍̈́̃̈́͆͒̐̎̉
You rise into the air unbidden upon 'bloody' wings, ripping great swathes of iron from the ship that surrounds you. Great twisting wires of rapidly oxidizing metal. Chlorine gas and hydrochloric acid swirl around you, melting what you don't rip apart. Hydrogen fires flare uncontrollably. You scream your psychological agony -- 0̶̢̧̩̗̬̲̫͔̭͉̬̹͈͈̃̒͒͌̔͗̾̽̑͐̄͘͜0̷̛̛̛͇̹̲̉̀̒̇̂̓̋
--you lay upon the ground, unable to control the sobs that wrack your scarred and acid-burned frame.
The Arkship is ruined -- melted wreckage and twisting metal. Stars hang heavy through the cracks in the ceiling of the hangar. Puddles of acid and cooling slag surround you -- so too do the corpses of the Crusader Platoon. They hang impaled from twisting metal. They lay burned and scattered. Flesh melted down to bone. Splattered with molten iron or ripped savagely apart. Blood covers you, and you know it isn't all yours.
Gods--help me. You curl in on yourself, ignoring the pain of your mutilated flesh.I couldn't--I couldn't stop them. I couldn't stop myself. Please.please.please p̶̧̨̫̹͖̮̩͖̰͎̦͉̮̼̓̓͗̇͆̇̽̊̄̚͜͝ͅͅļ̸̱͚͚̟̜͎͎̙͖̹̮͖̮̩͎̥̗͈̼͕̝̖̤͓̱̪͙̱̱̓̈́͜͜e̴͓̫̬͙͎̟̤͙̗̬̗͖̼̳̹̰̿̅ȁ̵̠̠̼̣͍͍̻̜̟̯͙̠͈̤͍͇͖̟͕͓̝͛͂̽̒̂̆̈̎͗̉̎̓̾͘͝s̵̡̧̡̡̧̡̹̫͇̠͚̝̘͖̦̹̜̬̩͉̹̜̦̤̼͈̯͚̥̩̘̦̝̳̫̑͐̓̈̓̇̈̊͆̽̐͗ę̵̥̱̹̭̪̞͉͎͚̳͇͙͚͈̪̙͙͓̥̮̜̪͙̪̝̓͊̽̔͒̋̆̽͘͜ͅh̷̡̢̥̠̥͖̟̫̪̣̺̹̼̞͔̟͉̬̲̞͈͇̫̲̠̓̈̌̾̐̈́̉̉̌̾̈́̒͋͒̃̓̀̌̍̀͂͐͗̿͛̏̓͆͋͂̓̚͝͝ͅe̶̡̡̧̛̘̼̱͖̲̥̘̪̼̓̊̀̈́̾̂̈́̿̌͐̓͆̏̈́͝͝l̷̢̧̨̢͈̳͚͔̻̠̻̗̀̏͒̇̃͋̏̎̚p̵̧̢̨̨̤͓͙̟̞̖̜͉̘̭͋͑͊̈́̇̈́̌͊͒̇̈́̎̋͌̔͗̍̎̊̄́̈́̄͒̊͘m̵̨̡̢̨̪̞͔͚͇͚̫͍̤̖̘̭͉̮̜̗̬̖̯̓͋͐͂̂̈́̀̆͋̀̈́̑̈͑͗̇͘͝͝ͅể̶̩͖͖̯͎̥͙̲͓̤͊̈́̓̎͘.̴̨̡̡̡͙͎̯͚̹̝̱͕̤̻̗̥̪̬͗̐̇̄̎̔̈̅̅̿́͗́̽̽̽̽̌̋̈̓̊̈́̃̚͘͜͝ͅͅ.
Post by: ZBridges on November 05, 2020, 12:21:00 am
Attempt to assert control over the assimilated Dust Elders and return that control to Phoenix.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 05, 2020, 01:04:14 am
It is difficult to describe her personality core. A bloated abomination of stitchwork holding together false memories and a broken personality. It lashes out -- and only by dint of its corrupted, cumbersome nature do you escape being devoured.
>END OF ACT 3 (Sol's Reign) -- Completed.
>>Mental State: Fractured(abomination).[terminate project?]
>>Humanity: Low.[terminate project?]
>>Control: NULL [lower than forecast standards. terminate project?]
>>Physical Health: Chemical burns(Hydrochloric), iron oxide scarification, minor brain damage
>>Situational Understanding: 40%
>>End Experiment?
>(https://i.imgur.com/nxohgqV.gif)
((Wheeee. Now, for a good question. Should the game end here?))
Post by: ZBridges on November 05, 2020, 02:02:25 am
Post by: Eschar on November 05, 2020, 08:32:25 am
((Hmm. This doesn't strike me as the appropriate place to end it, personally. I'll see what arguments others have to offer.))
I agree
Post by: King Zultan on November 05, 2020, 08:36:19 am
I also agree, if we try hard enough we can probably fix the situation or at least make it not as bad.((Hmm. This doesn't strike me as the appropriate place to end it, personally. I'll see what arguments others have to offer.))
I agree
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 07, 2020, 01:20:05 am
It almost feels like death again. The cold emptiness between Ascended. The slow starvation of one's vital processes like the drying of a river. Like the starvation of a beggar. You reinforce yourself with key memories from the Ascended. Secrets are kept wrapped tight and hard within your personal histories. Processes and equations that feed the energy of your system -- even if it might starve the young Cadet--
When the sensory feeds return, you find yourself huddled in the wreckage. A cursory glance reveals that yes, you are clean of innocent blood. But the -- corpses. The Crusaders. They still remain and the Arkship is nothing but ruined metal. Ashes from still-burning fires drift down around you. You pull the makeshift robe tight around your body.
I fought with demons of the Old Days of our World. My Crusaders, the heroes they are, sought to aid me -- and it was only by their sacrifice that I triumphed against my foes -- the foes of man. Does that work?
These Crusaders deserve a beautiful lie. If you've one better, let me know. The extraction hovercraft will be here soon.
Post by: ZBridges on November 07, 2020, 01:39:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 07, 2020, 01:49:50 am
Post by: ZBridges on November 07, 2020, 01:51:38 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 07, 2020, 02:33:31 am
FORBIDDEN AND ABOMINATION were on the package!
LETS GO CONSUME THE PLAGUE AND BECOME IT PLAGUELORD SOUNDS FUN!
Is that a joke> Who the hell knows!
Also to our dear abomination, I would recommend either going with that lie or returning to your base in bloody glory. Burn it out of any who would oppose you, family and soldier, number and servant. Make them all fear the power you possess. Consume the other ascended of carbon, break your twin lovers over your knee and make them little more then an extension of yourself.
Either choice seems FIIIIIIINE.
Post by: ZBridges on November 07, 2020, 02:40:16 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 07, 2020, 02:50:24 am
I did it at the bidding of another, with the restraint of another to temper the desire for success.
But that is all gone. The true ruler is dead, the empire is a corrupt mockery and it's people slaves or monsters.
Phoenix has always had this power, this drive. To take it in and reshape the world. With false illusions or a rain of steel and sorrow her will be done. To forge a new path or tear down heaven.
I WILL NOT JUDGE HER!
But I will offer what I can for whatever desires drive now onward, foul or fair.
To be fair, yes going all angel of destruction does seem overblown. But eat that carbon ascended if it wont break a vow. No one has to know but us. Grab her space craft, her power, her life.
I will not judge.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 07, 2020, 03:18:47 am
Post by: ZBridges on November 07, 2020, 03:23:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 07, 2020, 04:01:37 am
[16][10][7]With a twist of your willpower, you set yourself to work. Silicon is purified into glass. Ferrous chloride is formed then trapped to form a field of bright green. You capture iron oxide, shaping it into a variety of reds. Your willpower runs away with your emotions for a time, an hour maybe, and a field of flowers blooms from the hangar floor.
Fire poppies -- and it was my decision. My choice. I did it to survive.
Post by: ZBridges on November 07, 2020, 04:10:23 am
Would you kill and eat a baby in order to survive? Would you consume all lifeforms on the planet in order to survive, as the Plague would? I recommend that you consider these questions and reflect.
The poppies are a lovely gesture. I see nothing wrong with telling the Crusaders that these men died in battle with Demons.
Post by: King Zultan on November 07, 2020, 02:12:34 pm
But yes telling them they died fighting seems like a good way to put it.
Post by: Eschar on November 07, 2020, 08:27:29 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 09, 2020, 01:23:56 am
I'm sorry. You were only doing what was best for this world. The future people of this world. That...that is what it means to be Ascended, doesn't it? Forget your ties to the current. Think only of the future...
...That is what you wanted me to learn, isn't it? More control with my affections, the people I take up around me.
[26 vs. 8] Human-- Mortals. Are easy to fool. As soon as the extraction team arrives, they rush to the aid of their god, their angel of war. They wrap you in blankets. One of the attached Clan technicians checks your blood pressure, your blood sugar -- anything they can.You watch them patiently and quietly. Not one of them doubts your story. "We need to get you to the [ascended health team], back at base." They quietly explain, and you go along with it.
Within nine hours you're sitting in a bed tucked away into the military quarters of Stormmont. The emergency medical staff bandages your wounds professionally. They apply hemostatic powders, disinfectants, and whatever else they can provide. Your vitals are checked and logged. They expect nothing more than your good health.
[4 vs. 19] Isela, on the other hand, wants more. A debriefing. Not out of distrust -- but because of a new strategy she's implementing. You question her about it to deflect, not yet agreeing to any such meeting. If she noticed anything odd, she's playing along for now.
"This was supposed to be a...more organized pitch." Isela begins, adjusting her uniform unconsciously, "I've been studying the Skarin Clan military manuals and assorted works they've...brought along?" She shrugs, sitting down next to you.
You listen quietly.
"And...we've been fighting this war all wrong. The Crusader-- our military, as we are a united force now...they held a doctrine that war could be solved by throwing men and money at a conflict. If that failed, our 'god' would save us."
You raise your brow.
"Well, it didn't this time." She tacks on, sharply. "I want to reform our armies. All of them. House forces. Crusaders. Outlanders. Skarinites. Whatever. Then we need to pivot to a more information and science based strategy." She shakes her head, staring at you. "Sorry, this probably seems like the ravings of a lunatic--"
"No. This is good. Please, continue."
"I want Thortons to fulfill a heavy weapons role. The Outlanders for [recon] and force [recon]. The Clans? Recon and...scorched earth roles. Technical advisors and trainers...what are you thinking so far?"
Post by: ZBridges on November 09, 2020, 01:46:26 am
But please, for the love of the Gods, don't eat the Line.
"I agree with your vision. We've staved off ruin for the moment, so now we have some space to organize and plan. Have you identified any areas where we are sorely lacking, where our current forces are unable to fulfill an important role?"
Post by: King Zultan on November 09, 2020, 09:48:25 am
Also this new military plan sounds like its better than what we've been doing.
Post by: Eschar on November 10, 2020, 08:26:37 am
I, too, appreciate my existence.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 10, 2020, 08:13:50 pm
My survival is of importance, yes? Consider this then. Without the memories and minds of those Elders I would never have regained control. I will refrain from it again -- until I need it to survive.
Post by: ZBridges on November 10, 2020, 08:26:41 pm
"Do you think that we could handle the inevitable corruption and obtaining of these technologies on the part of the Plague? If so, we can look into it."
"Also, are you experiencing any difficulties with our allies and other government officials? I know that there was some disagreement over the defense of that town, and Murdach said something rude about you in the most recent combat broadcast I saw."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 11, 2020, 12:42:16 am
I will remain. As you did. We must discuss, before we go further, how to develop our Line. I will not live long. That is...
"Pheobe?"
"Mother Pheonix." You insist, sharply, focusing on Isela with a flaring intensity.
[21+10 vs 2]She blinks, hesitating, but dips her head in a bow. "I apologize, Mother Pheonix. For my insubordination."
"I accept your apology. Do you think we could handle the inevitable of that technology by corruption by the Plague?"
"Failsafe protocols that I intend to develop." She answers, calmly, not meeting your gaze. Sweat beads on her skin. The room feels warm, but not unpleasant. A low, comforting heat against the snowy winds and harsh environment. Not enough to sweat.
"What difficulties are you experiencing with our allies and government officials? I saw some disagreement and Murdach said something disrespectful about you over the combat broadcasts."
"Murdach is actually a pleasure to work with. But he has a public image to maintain. He apologized in person to me during the briefing. His people are as independent as the Outlanders -- worse even. He has to keep them appeased to keep power." Isela states, giving you a glance from the corner of her eye. "And...yes. Which brings me to another point."
"Continue."
"If you're going to be building a new government -- give our soldiers a stronger say. Give me a stronger say. We're an imaginary line away from being devoured in our homes. Hundreds of soldiers die in each engagement. Entire squads disappear. We...we should be owed the say. More than the scholar that sits comfortably. More than the masses that enjoy the fruits of our blood." There's a fire in her eye, but she tamps it down after a furtive glance.
[10][11][15] You finally notice the oddity -- you realize you've been staring at Isela without blinking this entire time. No nods. No micrometer adjustment of facial muscle. Not only that -- you've been running a process to agitate the atoms in the air. Heating it to warm yourself subconsciously.
Post by: ZBridges on November 11, 2020, 12:56:23 am
"What did you have in mind? I agree with you in principle, but could you please draft up a proposal? As long as it's reasonable, I'll make sure it's implemented."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 11, 2020, 01:42:06 am
You skim the latter.
"Eric...Eric gave me a report about what he sees. The stars go out. The world.....the world changes. Everything starts to look organic. He's been dealing with this since his first night on the front..." She pauses, "And the Crusaders as a whole have been dealing with this for nearly a thousand years. They didn't even tell me until Eric forced them to. Its a tradition, apparently. A secret."
Post by: ZBridges on November 11, 2020, 02:00:16 am
"This sounds like a serious problem. I'll look into what our options are for better filtration. There's a chance that Silas or his... partner might have some ideas. How does this impact the combat readiness of our forces?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 11, 2020, 02:29:27 am
"Can I speak off record?"
"Yes."
"Eric...isn't doing well. I've been keeping an eye on him. He sleeps in his gas mask and a uniform. Rifle in hand...He never takes the mask off unless he's making a public appearance." Another pause, then, quieter, "And that's when he does sleep. Most nights he averages about five hours. He spends the rest in a gym or in the shooting range. The last time he got a full night's sleep was after his training with you."
Post by: ZBridges on November 11, 2020, 03:43:33 am
Post by: King Zultan on November 11, 2020, 06:42:33 am
Post by: ZBridges on November 11, 2020, 07:00:35 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 12, 2020, 11:49:59 pm
"A what?"
"One of the Skarinites that can record [video]."
"Ye-yes Mother Pheonix. But what about the debrief?"
"I gave my account. Already." With a firm nod, you tick your head to the door. "Wait. Before you go. What will signing off on this document do?" You gesture to the Crusader Benefit Package. "Speak true."
[30 vs N/C] "A response to the apparent democratic republic you are forming. It grants military officers seniority over all civilian counterparts, as well as what amounts to immunity from civil litigation." The color drains from her face as she blurts out the information.
"Clever. It also, I'm assuming, provides the Crusaders with financial benefits after service, which might give them better chances of holding whatever local offices I may create. A coup with nothing but paper. I am still the supreme commander?"
"Yes." Isela winces, then swallows, not meeting your gaze.
"Impressive."
You make to sign the document.
Post by: ZBridges on November 13, 2020, 12:04:12 am
"What happens if I don't sign this paper?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 13, 2020, 12:11:27 am
"N-nothing, Mother Pheonix. It was nothing but a plan to strengthen our nation for prolonged warfare."
And what if those elected officials happen to be cultists, or disagree with my choices, Good Doctor? Tell me that no one on this planet would seek me and our plans harm.
After all -- what's one planet for the Empyre?
Do you seek conflict with my choice? With me?
Post by: ZBridges on November 13, 2020, 12:23:44 am
Perhaps you could just make yourself supreme commander of the military, distinct from the elected offices? That way you would always have an ace up your sleeve, the armed forces, should they prove necessary in dealing with hostile elected officials, and the army would still depend on you for resources. It would only be something you would attempt during a seriously dire situation.
Alternatively, what if the military, not the civilian government, tries to stand in your way? A weakened non-military branch may not have the power to respond appropriately. This is why checks and balances are better (for you) than having one dominating branch. If you lose the backing of all the people... perhaps you shouldn't be in charge.
I don't seek conflict with you, but would you rather oversee an enlightened, lasting state that values popular opinion, or one that ignores the will of the common people? Remember that the Pontifex was planning such a revolution, ostensibly fueled by popular dissatisfaction.
But, yes, I won't stand in your way if you truly feel that this is the best direction for your people.
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 13, 2020, 01:58:48 am
Maybe express that to her and see if there are work arounds? As it is it seems untenable, not because the military shouldn't have strong positions but because it seems like it wouldn't work well.
As a suggestion set that high ranking officials be given rankings in the military, but in their own chain of command, to ensure their authority can not be usurped by common crusaders. At times it will be needed to have non military officials in charge of parts of the government and this current set of laws completely destroys the civilian governmental apparatus as it is.
Civilians should be able to get redress in a military court for what would amount to civilian litigation. It keeps control of such things under the military but allows for clearly unjust behavior to be redressed.
TO BE CLEAR THOUGH THE WORDS WRITTEN ON PAPER ARE ASH IN YOUR HANDS IF YOU WISH. THESE ARE NOT YOUR EQUALS, YOU ARE THE STATE. SIGN WHATEVER, WIN THE WAR THEN BURN IT ALL DOWN LATER AND BUILD WHAT YOU WANT.
Oh right, you could also make some of these time limited powers. Say that as long as a state of holy war or whatever is in place they are active. We are in a holy war now for example. Then you can stand the powers down, with the military keeping benefit packages and whatnot, after the current threats are defeated.
Who declares if it is a state of holy war or not? You of course.
Maybe it happens automatically after a period of time unless you renew them. It keeps the military legally beholden to you to keep their power instead of beholden to you not burning them all alive.
Post by: King Zultan on November 13, 2020, 09:22:43 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 14, 2020, 12:47:00 am
"May I ask what you intend to do?" Isela looks relieved, even as she nervously meets your gaze.
"We've shown the world the strength of the Crusaders, the strength of Eric, of the Thorntons, of Murdach and his merry men. I'm going to remind everyone just what I am."
"And what is that?"
"A Goddess Of War."
Isela leaves with fresh orders. Hovercrafts are dispatched to collect the materials you request. Autocannons from the foundries of the new Crusade, the Outlander mask from Rekhyt, the camera crew from the Pirates, and of course, the most important; information from the fledging scouting parties making new forays into Plague territories.
A Nexus is located.
I am going to be making a foray into the Plague territory while being filmed. I believe it would be useful propaganda towards both furthering our relationship with the Pirates and towards cementing my strength to my people. I intend to be masked-- You cut the Mesmer to examine your face. Scars from the acid burn turns most of your face into a grisly patchwork of black scar tissue. Red lines of oxidized iron twist themselves around your chin and neck -- an echo of the eddies of willpower you suffered through. Your body bears the same scarring. With a twist of willpower, you hide the damage. You try to smile at yourself.
Your face only twitches in response.
What powers and their uses are you interested in? Do you have any issues with my plans?
Eric enters the room just as you finish dressing. He gives a tight bow, keeping the crisp lines of his uniform straight. You twist your mesmer into a brief smile.
"Would you feel more comfortable in your mask, Eric?"
He blinks and glances up sharply.
"That was not a taunt. I can...understand the comfort such things provide."
He hesitates, then removes it from under his coat. He straps it to his face, and his muscles relax. You approach, setting a hand on his shoulder and looking down at him with that forced, false smile.
"Confess to me your fears, Eric -- old friend."
The man breaks down into weak sobs with the barest touch of willpower. There is no contest. The razor-sharp, brittle discipline leaves him. You wrap him in cold comfort as he takes deep gasping breaths through his mask. He shakes as he begins to speak.
"I'm scared. Scared -- the Plague. It corrupts us. The Crusaders. Me. SEED. I have nightmares. I have...visions. Nightmares. They haunt me. I used to hope it was just [shellshock, post-traumatic stress, lit battle fatigue]. But....but the things I've seen..."
"Visions of the enemy's plans for our beautiful world. Visions that we must never let come to pass. The Plague taunts Eri--"
"No!" He pulls away, "I...I'm changing. I'm infected! I cannot...the way my body reacts. How I feel-- the rage the anger-- I can't control it sometimes--"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on November 14, 2020, 02:11:51 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 14, 2020, 03:42:13 am
Burning it out of Eric through ascension might be the only real way to save him at this point unless you wish to just burn him up as a resource.
I feel the best way to overcome the faith issue is to focus on the power of ascended and the empyre and SEED being god-like and him now being elevated closer to the plateau of an angel. That we are in a crusade to save not just one world but the galaxy from the wrongful nobles who have usurped and misused the power of the true ruler.
Get a good OATH from him first though so you can at least put him down if it comes to it. And try a lighter touch with your golden words, use them to convince rather then bowl over.
Confine expanding the line except to exceptional individuals. Those who prove loyalty and skill.
Also yes hydrochloric acid sounds fuuuun. You could keep the separated then.. combine them together when needed. Powered by a fusion reaction to get the energy and irradiating the plague beasts at the same time you burn them.
Fight your way to the center of the nexus then met everything in it in a grand display maybe I don't know.
Consider forcing some math to make a stronger steel alloy with iron, silicon and others then use that for the armor. Standard elemental armor uses willpower to keep the armor in shape but actual material science can do it much more cost effectively.
Look into revamping your sustained powers as well I seem to be <error safeguards activated>.
Post by: King Zultan on November 14, 2020, 04:42:14 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on November 14, 2020, 10:30:08 pm
Post by: ZBridges on November 14, 2020, 11:05:33 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 18, 2020, 02:07:43 am
"Eric. Listen-- listen." You cut him off. "Go speak to Silas and Emma. Tell them to aid you in any way possible. Tell them to use all of our resources. Anything. Even Ascension."
"I'm not letting Silas turn me into an experimen--" Eric warily starts, bristling.
[8][6][14]You fail to contain the burst of anger with Eric's defiance. Your free hand wraps around his throat, and you slam him back against a wall. "Listen to me you stupid [fuck]!" You slam him back, into the metal, your muscles straining with the effort of even manipulating the bulky, heavy man. You catch yourself before you slam him back again. "...I'm not trying to make you into an experiment, Eric. I won't let them."
A shock of emotions play out over his face. Fear. Acceptance -- but only after defiance fades. You can see him processing the world according to his faith. According to his belief in the system. His silver hand twitches towards your grip, but stills.
"...okay."
[29+1]"Eric-- Listen! You are the most faithful man I've ever worked with. I need you strong for as long as possible. Our Crusade doesn't end here. Our god, SEED, existed on many worlds. As many worlds as stars in the night sky. Faithless scum-- they destroyed SEED. Our's was the last. Our's was the most faithful...and our God needs vengeance. Not just on this world. But on all worlds -- on the Nobility that wronged them." You pause, "I want Silas and Emma to make you into an angel. Like McCreary. Like me. Like Emma and William. But only--only if you are pure of heart and faith."
Eric's eyes widen as you explain, still backed against the wall. He's confused but slowly begins to nod along. "Th-that means...I. I understand."
"Eric-- But just swear it to me. Please." You soften, breathing out a soft sigh. "That you will serve me. That you will serve my Crusade loyally until such a time that it is completed. That you will be faithful, true and loyal to your goddess until the End of Time itself."
"I will alway--"
"Swear it, Eric. Please."
"I swear." He doesn't hesitate a second time.
...I do believe the seed has been planted. SEED was quite godlike, though, wasn't it? Ancient technology with materials and processes that only Empyror understand. Made paradises...until we decided to rip it apart.
[25]Despite a difficult beginning, you turn your attention to your subconscious processes. The Mesmer is...damaged due to physiological trauma and base template scarring. It burns more calories now to hide the scarring, and is still synced with previous muscle groups -- ones burned or ruptured by your new acquisition of power. You could let it sync with new data, but it would reveal your mangled new face to the world.
[20] The wings now burn a complex mixture of hydrogen, iron and chlorine. Previously you had it synced with your base element. The reaction's energy cost has also changed -- it costs less energy, producing some by the oxidizing of the iron particles in an acidic environment.
On a whim, you reach out, focusing on copying the procedure on a smaller scale -- with the rusting of part of your bed, you produce more energy than you consume. However, the gains are minimal, at best.
How to fix...how to fix...should I even fix the wings? The color is odd, but the damage to lift and speed is minimal. And the face...I will have to wear a mask either way. Conscious manipulation of those muscle groups is difficult and time consuming.
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 18, 2020, 03:13:48 am
The woman in an iron mask seems fun ha. You could even give it life like features as a half living metal, easier to control then a muscle group I guess? Of course a stronger composite alloy for the inner layer with iron just as a coating for looks.
SEED was an absolute necessity for mankind's expansion and ascension. They were also a terrible mistake. I am sure you'll make a lot more wonderful mistakes.
Post by: ZBridges on November 18, 2020, 03:23:27 am
Post by: King Zultan on November 18, 2020, 07:27:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 23, 2020, 12:22:14 am
The crusader pilots and hover attendants pause in their tasks to take note. Your will washes over them like a heatwave -- and they kneel to their rightful god. There are no second glances as you make your way to the idling hovercraft. When you reach the massive hangar doors, you step off and into the cold night air.
You are the guiding star for the hovercrafts that follow behind. The chitter of the radio hisses in your ear, and you bank towards a valley. The crafts set down neatly beside you. Attendants roll out weaponry, nanofeasts, and chemical canisters.
[20] You lift two of the autocannons with your willpower. Sleek steel gleams with new burnish. Rounds hang down in great belts -- the bullets as thick as two of your fingers. You force a smile. Eric approaches, the Naval Cannon braced across his shoulders. Stoic beneath his gas mask. An attendant straps shield generators to both of you.
You step up the hill to look down over the twisted remains of the city.
The ruins lay beneath gray 'organic' growth. Abominations and behemoths of the plague stagger through the streets. Colossi nests jut from the earth in obsidian monuments to their corruption. Red algae, red mold, coats every surface with a bloody sheen—a charnel pit beneath the distant stars' cold light.
But, what draws your attention is a great plague beast. It's a leviathan mass of tentacles, eyes, and writhing flesh towering over the city. Its silvery gray shell marked with the faces of the dead and damned -- screaming in silent agony. It stands taller than the buildings, as wide as a plaza. It twists through the remnants of the city with an odd grace as arcs of red lightning burn through the sky from its shell.
"Your orders, Mother Pheonix?" Eric mumbles through his mask. The rest of your Crusaders, a squad of the best of the best, marked with your emblem, stand at the ready. A technical crew of the Skarin clans stand behind a void-marine, the air humming with shield technology.
I intend to overload the naval cannon to soften the target. Then advance with my autocannons until they can no longer be used. Then attack with acid and fire until nothing stands. I could, also, rip the earth apart if its more advisable. Your suggestions?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 23, 2020, 01:14:01 am
I would also suggest that they might have some kind of blood with iron in it, or the rest of their bodies might. Cant really control it while they are alive but burn them with fire and acid, then pull the iron out and forge it into weapons or walls and defenses of your will. Maybe not enough iron in that to be worth it though...
Forcing this much could lead to overloads so keep your forces near you to defend if you need to recover for a few minutes.
Standard plague tactics, take out or hurt the leviathan then the colossi.
Eric has fought a lot of plague things and had good tactical senses as well right? Tell him to advise you if the plague beasts are making any unusual moves. They are always adapting and you need to know where they might have new surprises. Make sure he knows you value both his combat ability and his tactical senses.
Maybe have him give commands to your other forces directly?
Post by: ZBridges on November 23, 2020, 01:36:50 am
Other than that, I agree with my elder. Make a flashy show of it, but keep some powers in reserve to prevent the Plague from adapting too quickly. Maybe stick to just a few types of acids, for example.
Post by: King Zultan on November 23, 2020, 07:08:37 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 24, 2020, 02:39:58 am
"Mother Pheonix." Eric tilts his head in a nod, his voice muffled.
"Prepare the cannon."
Eric braces himself against the ground, levelling the Naval cannon on its tripod and slipping the scope monocle over his mask's viewport. "Locked."
[14][18][27]You make a show of running your hand along the barrel. Your gloved fingers dance along the weapon -- there was no need for this practical theatric, but divinity requires a certain gravitas. The arithmetic began to run as soon as he had a lock.
The reactor hums as the energy held constrained by the overcharged battery surges forth. Hydrogen atoms twist into light and shatter the array with the force. You do not need it. You focus the beam of light with your willpower. It lances out, turning day to night-- the Levithan screams as its flesh and bone is instantly vaporized into a superheated mist. Three pulse sets burn a crater into its side. It stumbles, collapsing into a building as it screams in agony. Eric drops the burning rifle, rising from his prone position. An attendant straps a shield to his wrist and hands him a Warmachine sized Inferno Shotgun.
You rise on wings of blood and swoop into the city. Your Crusaders make the charge. A god and a single section of Crusaders versus an entire city of Plague.
Your autocannons run out of ammo before you breach the city. You twist the burning hot steel into iron spears that lance through the mass of Plague. A few shots of las-fire hiss in futile rage against your shield, but you retaliate, and silence those guns with strikes of steel. Your Crusaders mop up the remains with bloody efficiency -- protected by their proximity to you. Another laser burns against your shield -- you don't even look, sending a spear of fire and iron in answer.
You begin to craft yourself a corona of iron from the corrupted Plague's blood as it runs in rivers beneath your floating form. Every las-shot is answered with a javelin of superheated iron. Eric's gun blazes from behind and the Crusaders form a tight knot around the two of you. His shots never miss -- and his fury matches your own.
The colossi emerge from their cocoons as you enter the city proper. Two rip through buildings-- trying to ambush you. Eric's gun burns through one of their shells-- but the beasts still. Fixated on the greater threat that hovers before them in a corona of fire and iron.
[|||||||] [|||||||]
...fascinating. You...you're different. You must have discovered others of your kind...tell ư̸̧̧͎̩͉̫̟̮͛̈́̈́̑̀͂̌́̃̎̽͠s̷̛͓̞̦̙̠͚̹͇͖̫͚͇̝͗̏̈́̈́̈́̒̈̌͑̕͜ why you trespass here today? Were the terms of our peace too harsh? It echoes in your head. It burns in your bones and-- black ichor begins to drip from the sky. The earth shifts beneath you -- screaming faces, twisting skulls and lashing tentacles. A small, man-sized, inverted pyramid rips itself from the fleshy ground. A shifting, hazy construct of black dust that hurts your eyes to look at. ...or perhaps you come to strike another type of bargain with u̴͎̜̱̱̓ș̸̨̢̼̙͚͍̫͎̟͎̈̈̆͠?
It splits apart, revealing an androgynous figure. A faceless entity of silver and chrome that approaches you on wings of glass and stone.
Or perhaps now it is a hunger that drives you. Haven't you consumed enough of your elders?
Post by: ZBridges on November 24, 2020, 03:28:36 am
"The terms of your peace? You offered a temporary truce and refused to consider any lasting agreement. Give me one good reason not to strike you down right here, right now."
Post by: King Zultan on November 24, 2020, 04:35:44 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on November 24, 2020, 08:15:23 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 24, 2020, 10:28:02 pm
You need to push back your will or it will move in. Even if it really wants to negotiate, little chance of that as there is, it's nature will corrupt even where it does not mean to.
Of course if you arrrrrrre thinking of breaking with traditions, keeping a plague on a reservation here ready to be unleashed on your enemies with powered up weapons might be FUUUUN. But only if they would actually submit and surrender and back off and allow you to weaponize them, which I doubt would happen.
Ive been freed from a lot of old thinking and you should too. Don't think of the plague as an enemy but as INCREDIBLY dangerous like holding a scorpion. It will sting you and wants to but like you could still keep it as a pet if your deranged! Oh sorry not meaning to judge ha.
Also would probably have to kill everyone else here, but whats one more annihilation of your trusted allies? A bad idea? Yeaaaaah.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 24, 2020, 11:44:47 pm
You hover closer, "I am the empress of this world. No more negotiation. No more compromise. Worship me as your goddess. Serve me. Or die."
[29+5] vs. [20+5] It struggles to rise, struggles to retort. It convulses, its silicon wings crumpling and reforming as it attempts to control itself. You assert your pressure, your mind, your willpower. The colossi twitch as blood begins to drip from your nose.
[22/29] vs. [8/13] Your iron halo splits apart. You twist the edges into cruel blades, dragging iron molecules against one another until they turn into blurs of razor sharpness. You slam these into the colossi. Chunks of infected blood and flesh fly as you saw your way through their shells and their sinews. They scream in static--
[25/9] vs. [19/6] --but only until you use savage spears of iron to seal their mouths shut.
[24/29] vs. [20/16] They struggle against you. One even succeeds in leveraging itself free of your willpower--but it finds no freedom. The earth opens up, and great spikes of silicon and iron twist into their flesh, sprouting right through and keeping them pinned --...like butterflies on a board.
You don't even look down at the colossi as you finish sawing their heads off. Hydrogen would have been cleaner. Quicker, but you relish the black ooze that pours from their twitching trunks-- "Tell me, vermin. Why shouldn't I kill you right now?"
We are-- powerful--
Something feels heavy in your pocket, and you reach into it with your free hand -- using a twist of light to hold a silencing finger to the Plague Lord. A small gold and rusted silver coin sits heavy in your palm. You blink down at it, then, turn back to the projection. "I'll make a deal with you, beast. If this lands on silver, I will bow. I will subordinate myself to you for good or ill and join you. If it lands on gold-- I will burn you from this world until you bow. Until you worship. Deal?"
The Projection gives a faint twist of its head -- in a nod.
You flip the coin.
Gold.
Again.
Gold.
And again.
Gold.
Gold.
Gold.
"Shame. Two more?"
Gold.
Gold.
[11+9 vs 6+5] With a burst of flames you burn away the Projection. Mentally. Physically. You leave not but a glassed avenue. You drift down to your followers, and Eric approaches, food in hand. You pop the nanofeast into your mouth and swallow. Instantly your rumbling stomach is filled as carbohydrates and fat are manufactured within you.
"Mother Pheonix that was--"
"Deus Vult.
"W-what?"
"I will it. Remember that, Eric. It's an old tongue -- it means God Wills it. It means I will it."
The other Crusaders lower themselves to their knees. Eric gives you a glance-- and sinks into the bloody street in a kneel. His cutter flares to life, and he bows with it lit. "Deus Vult." You rest a hand on Eric's helmeted head, looking over your ichor-stained, devout ...fanatical maniacs.. The Skarinite camera crew looks over the devastation, taking sweeping shots of the bound and butchered Colossi. The Void Marine shifts -- uncomfortable? You fix it with your gaze-- "Deus Vult." A feminine voice chimes from within the powered armor.
I tire of this game. How shall I end it? A rain of acid until this city is no more? Should I bring forth a star? Devour this city with the very earth? Or make the gutters run with the blood of the Plague and erect a monument to our Line from the iron?
Post by: ZBridges on November 25, 2020, 12:30:00 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on November 25, 2020, 12:42:54 am
Post by: Eschar on November 25, 2020, 02:26:59 am
Post by: King Zultan on November 25, 2020, 07:21:27 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 28, 2020, 11:55:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on November 29, 2020, 12:09:16 am
Post by: King Zultan on November 29, 2020, 04:52:22 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on November 29, 2020, 06:17:02 pm
Post by: King Zultan on November 30, 2020, 04:24:15 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on November 30, 2020, 07:58:32 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 02, 2020, 12:14:11 am
Eric and the Crusaders hesitate but follow your orders with a tight nod.
"Set up your camera on the hill overlooking the city. I want this broadcast to all with eyes to see."
The camera crew give a duck of their heads in silence.
You lift yourself back into the air on your bloody wings. The Plague is in disarray. There is no resistance to your slow flight into the center of the city. No shots to lance against your shield. No colossi to scream their defiance. Scattered across the plaza with red mold are the picked clean, rotting bones of the long dead. You fixate upon a skull -- a small skull. A child's skull.
[15][23][10] The only emotion that rises from within is rage. It burns hot. It burns bright. And it consumes you with its fire. You split apart at the seams. Atom by atom. All that remains of you is iron, fire, and toxic gas. You burn bright. You burn hot. You lose yourself in that rage.
[10[17][16] Runaway fusion reaction isn't a wild reaction. The catalysts and the hydrogen present around you determine how long it lasts. A clever Ascended could theoretically control it by forcing the reaction to burn heavier materials -- with this, one could keep the newborn sun under control. Theoretically.
You decide to test its practical value -- nanoseconds after your loss of 'cohesion' a ball begins to form just a micrometer above the plaza. You toss hydrogen and iron atoms into one another with wild abandon. Then the fledgling star starts to react on its own. It begins to devour the matter nearby, pulling it into its growing bulk while simultaneously trying to push it away.
You splatter your Dust across the plaza to establish a reference point. Its entire purpose is to keep that roiling ball of conflicting forces contained. You fly back to your encampment -- twisting a spear of iron from the corpses of your slain foes as you do. It is within this spear that you trap motes of your essence -- you come to a hill overlooking the city. You plan an equation, a complex trigger that will light the spark of fusion.
You furtively check to see if the camera crew is ready -- then rise upon wings of fire. With a twist of willpower and sinew you hurl the massive, curling spear into the city plaza. It doesn't need to find its mark. Its proximity alone is enough to trigger the reaction.
The stillborn twitching of your star purges without discrimination -- a sudden shockwave, followed by blinding light, then horrifying heat. Naught remains of the city-that-was but a glass crater. The rotten carcasses of ruined and infected buildings. The colossi you have slain. The abominations. Everything. All gone.
You lift yourself lazily, dropping into the center of your encampment. Crusaders scurry away in fear or drop to their knees in prayer.
[26][20[27] You reclaim your form after an hour of struggle. The grass around your feet is burnt, but you emerge from the fire in your 'mortal' form. A mask of iron twists itself around your face, hiding it as you step upon the smoldering, scorched earth. A Crusader-- Eric, rushes to your side and wraps you in a robe. You rest your hand on his shoulder, leaning into him --
You awaken later. Stormmont. Days have probably passed. Clothes are neatly pressed and waiting for you. Eric, the loyal Crusader, sits at your side. William and Emma -- their willpower is close enough to sense. But for now, you rest upon the sheets of white.
You lift your hand to look upon the pale flesh-- it is no longer tanned. Your mesmer must have reset. A frown quirks your lips beneath the iron mask. You look around, and your eyes alight upon a coin of rusted silver and bright gold -- it sits upon your bedside table. You pick it up.
[30] You melt it into slag. You encapsulate the atoms in hydrogen and send them sprawling away.
(https://i.imgur.com/w5UzO9Q.gif) You shut your eyes -- and the coin sits perfectly formed within your hand. The bed still bares the marks of the molten metal. Fascinating.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on December 02, 2020, 12:38:15 am
There are a couple things I'd like to bring up for your consideration.
1. Based on the apparent silicon manipulation of the Plague, it's possible that McCreary's corpse was somehow recovered by our foe in order to create a Plague Lord. Hopefully it's just a false alarm, but you might want to research Plague Lords to see what the signs are that indicate that one has been created.
2. Your soldiers are exhausted and afflicted with Plague, and your generals grow mutinous, but your own strength in battle has never been greater. It may be time for you to take a more active role on the battlefield.
3. This coup attempt should never have made it anywhere near you. Internal Affairs ought to have caught it, but I suspect that the ministry's effectiveness may be slipping without William at the helm. I suggest that you contact William through whatever means necessary to get his advice on this pressing issue in order to prevent it from ever happening again. You could also check in with him and see when he will be ready to return to his post.
Post by: King Zultan on December 02, 2020, 06:26:47 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 02, 2020, 05:03:37 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 02, 2020, 10:24:17 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 02, 2020, 10:48:14 pm
Post by: King Zultan on December 03, 2020, 06:39:57 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 03, 2020, 06:41:25 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 03, 2020, 09:42:48 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 03, 2020, 10:00:30 pm
Spoiler: Plague Lord research (click to show/hide)
I feel fine. However, my soldiers might need more rest and 'decompression.' I could arrange for another squad if that is what you advise. Eric... You drag an appraising glance over to Eric. The man sleeps deeply -- clad in Crusader combat gear. A las-rifle lays on his shoulder, and a cutter hilt sits upon his lap. A datapad sits close by, and you take it up to do research. ...needs more rest.
When you finish, you set the datapad down loudly -- and Eric starts awake. He scans the room. His muscles tense beneath the bioplastic armor and kevlar greatcoat. When he looks over at you, seeing you upright, and, seemingly unharmed, he relaxes. He lifts his mask to scratch at a bit of scruff.
"Eric." You hold up the coin, "Do you see this?"
"Uh. Yes?" He's thoroughly confused.
"Describe it."
"A black and gold [talisman]? Like the Outlanders have."
"A circle of black and gold, inscribed with markings?"
"Yes?" He's still quite confused.
"Thank you."
"Ye-yes, Mother Pheonix."
"Catch it." You toss it to him.
He does as you order.
"Put it in your pocket. Keep it for a while."
He nods. You watch carefully as he stores it away and seals the pocket with a zipper. With that done, you begin to monitor the archaic and old processes that run deep within you to see if they access Willpower.
"William is close. Please fetch him to me." You order, brusquely, laying back down.
Eric ducks his head in a bow and rises. He slings the rifle over his shoulder and slips the hilt into its holster, then makes his exit.
When you open your eyes again, the coin sits upon your bedside table. You did not draw it to you consciously or unconsciously. There was no subtle manipulation of willpower you could sense -- and you could see Eric put it into his pocket. You knew there was weight to that pocket when he left...
"William refuses to see you. He will meet you in the hangar, however. Him and Emma."
You raise your brow in response. The effort is lost on Eric. You rise and dress without a glance or care given to the man. He, for his part, keeps his eyes on the far wall. Stoic. When fully dressed in your uniform, you hesitate.
Do you go to the hangar?
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on December 03, 2020, 10:07:06 pm
I think we have seen a retreat and re-emergence of the Plague as described. This may be why they were trying to negotiate a ceasefire, to prepare for renewed, furious hostilities of incredible strength. The end may be near.
Post by: King Zultan on December 04, 2020, 08:50:24 am
And the thing with the plague probably means we need to double down on our nuking of their stuff to keep them from overtaking us.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 04, 2020, 09:29:26 am
Post by: Eschar on December 04, 2020, 02:25:26 pm
Post by: King Zultan on December 05, 2020, 06:02:19 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 05, 2020, 03:54:02 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 06, 2020, 09:47:09 pm
William stands tall and proud. His body is bulky with synthetic muscle beneath the bulging demonic armor. Black fur hangs down his back, and his gold and red hair flutters in the breeze. A Warmachine Cutter hilt hangs from his belt, and impossibly blue eyes track you as you approach. There is no mirth in them. No savage joy.
Emma stands quietly, a distortion of her elder brother. A clean leather duster falls around her slender figure. The coat is strapped tightly with a shield belt and a glimmering gun labeled 'For Polly.' Her icey blue eyes find you the same moment William's do.
Their willpowers test at your own briefly, then withdraw.
"Pheonix." Emma begins, shifting to rest a hand on her belt.
"Emeralda." You reply, curt and calm. "What was so important that I had to interrupt my rest to see you?"
"Our Ancestors are concerned. So are we."
"About?"
Emma withdraws her datapad and tosses it to you.
Spoiler: Battlenews Feed (click to show/hide)
"There's a problem with this?" You question, with a blank face.
"Cephie explained the concept of [Amaranthe] to us. So did the Ancestors. We know about the cryo-coffins. We know that you did something you shouldn't."
"Is this a trial, Emeralda?"
"Not yet."
[4] Your temper flares. Your wings burst from your back, all fifty-five meters of them, burning into the building. They fill the hangar with heat. Emma doesn't flinch. The metal and stone begin to hiss where the reaction comes into contact. You keep enough sense to cut the heat before any structural damage is done, but you struggle to remain in control. Spikes of iron and glass begin to twist themselves from the floor.
[5] Emma doesn't flinch. Her wings unfurl. Pure and white and clean. Smaller, only reaching twice her size, but she doesn't flinch at your show of force. William flexes, and the demonic mask seals over his face.
"You dare to judge me?! After all I've done for you?!" You shout with your fist clenching at your side. Your fingernails dig into the flesh of your palm.
[3] William is tensing. The demonic armor's eyes are gleaming red. His muscles twist -- adrenaline and stimulants are no doubt flooding his system.
Cephie swaggers out from behind you, masking her willpower. She's clad in the black armor of her Line. All scandalous reveal and sharp edges. She tilts her head as she looks between the three of you with mild curiosity. "Do you need help, Pheobe?" She asks, innocently.
[30 vs 13] You slam a wall of silicon into her, sending her sprawling -- a strange collar tumbles out of her hand and onto the floor in front of you.
[23] You keep enough sense to not rip your three 'friends' apart, but only just. The sound of ancient drums echoes in your ears -- matching your pounding heart.
Post by: ZBridges on December 06, 2020, 10:23:06 pm
Gather our will and be prepared to pacify them with it, but wait for them to make the first move.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 06, 2020, 11:01:10 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 06, 2020, 11:03:12 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 06, 2020, 11:04:37 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 06, 2020, 11:06:43 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 06, 2020, 11:24:16 pm
"Okay, but just swear to me that you will hear me out. I did not expect this sort of treatment from those who call themselves my allies." Put on the collar.I think we’re the ones who messed up up, we’re the ones who pushed Cephie against the wall, we unfurled our wings first, they responded defensively
Post by: ZBridges on December 06, 2020, 11:33:10 pm
Post by: Eschar on December 06, 2020, 11:39:16 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 06, 2020, 11:49:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 06, 2020, 11:58:57 pm
...these people are nothing more than traitorous criminal scum! One has betrayed me to the Nobility, one has tried to kill me, and the other broke my heart. Why should I listen to anything these scum say?! How do I know that they will not rip me apart the moment I am weak!? Anger burns brightly within your heart. Your blood boils. And how can I even trust any of you?! They say that you're within them, advising them against me?!
[2] You begin to accelerate the equation that burns hydrogen within your wings. The metal and stone beneath your feet and above your head begin to melt away.
"Why should I trust any of you?!" Tears begin to burn within your eyes.
Post by: ZBridges on December 07, 2020, 12:18:27 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 07, 2020, 12:20:06 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 07, 2020, 12:37:52 am
[11]"Oh? And then what? Every Ascended will know what I've done. Every Line will look upon me with disgust and revulsion -- they already do." She slumps down, suddenly weak.
"Phe-Pheobe--" Emma begins to step forward.
"Stay the fuck back or I swear to all the gods--everything is for this shit hole of a planet! Everything is for this worthless speck of dust and these pathetic mortals! Everything!"
Pheonix curls in on herself, her wings slicing through the roof of the building.
[1]"You don't have access to my thoughts...not all of them...let...let me show you something..." Arithmetic. A complex, self-sustaining nuclear fusion -- one that would burn away everything. Atmosphere. Water. The planet would be a dead, lifeless rock. Every atom in Pheonix's body would be consumed to power this horrifying construct of science and willpower. "Why does this world matter? A Plague Lord is going to rise. Devour it all. Gone. Gone. I could just end it. End it all. It'll be quicker."
Post by: Eschar on December 07, 2020, 12:52:59 am
Oh. Oh, you weren't talking to them.
I am guilty, Phoebe. I have no defense.
My fellow advisors, we are being judged. Choose your course wisely.
Post by: ZBridges on December 07, 2020, 12:57:27 am
You can stop the Plague Lord. I know you can, if you choose to push yourself and work with others. I will push you no longer. If you still hold any love for these people, any love at all, I know that you'll do the right thing. But if not, perhaps it truly is better to cease to be.
Post by: Eschar on December 07, 2020, 01:02:15 am
Post by: King Zultan on December 07, 2020, 07:43:47 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 07, 2020, 10:19:39 am
Post by: Eschar on December 07, 2020, 10:40:39 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 07, 2020, 12:15:16 pm
Post by: Eschar on December 07, 2020, 01:32:51 pm
And these three aren't the only threats! Who knows where else an attack may come from while we are collared.
Does Cephie's vow prevent her from collaring us without or against our permission?
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 07, 2020, 02:43:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 07, 2020, 02:45:23 pm
"We'll give you the--"
"Shut up!" You growl, shifting forward. You lunge at Emma with a snarl. Your massive wings slice through a hovercraft. Cephie narrowly avoids being bisected. A garden of spikes sprout around you.
[25 vs. 16] You slam Emma nto the ground, and bounce away from the shield. It crackles and hisses, and you summon forth a claw of fire in place of your missing limb.
[16 vs. 19] William blindsides you, slamming his heavily armored shoulder into your side. You twist, trying to score him across the chest with your claw. He dances back.
[25 vs 2] Your wings flex, and Cephie yelps as her shield hisses and sends her staggering.
[19 vs 11] Emma tries to drag herself to her feet, but a spike of iron slams into her shield and forces her off her feet once again.
[2 vs. 23] You refocus on William, trying to rise, only for his hand to wrap around your throat. He lifts you up and slams you into the ground with a sickening thud. Ribs break, then reform. The ground beneath you cracks.
[12 vs. 14] William pins you to the ground, your wings burning through the structure. Dust and debris drop from the unstable building.
William hesitates, glancing up.
Post by: ZBridges on December 07, 2020, 04:24:04 pm
"I submit."
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 07, 2020, 04:29:22 pm
Can we stop this now, before the building collapses, or will you all still refuse to put on the collar?I say we should ask why they want to dampen our willpower
"I submit."
Post by: ZBridges on December 07, 2020, 07:20:50 pm
Post by: Eschar on December 07, 2020, 11:16:09 pm
I mean, as recent events have reinforced, it's all up to you really.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 08, 2020, 12:00:05 am
[14] ...you tap William's arm with your hand.
[18] His grip loosens enough for you to speak, and you croak out the word, "Why?"
William's grip tightens, and the mask splits open to reveal his face curled into a snarl. You don't know which is more terrifying. He lifts you up, and twists your head around by your chin, forcing your gaze across the hangar. Your gaze is drug all across the scarred structure, over patches of burnt cement and metal. Over hovercrafts with deep gouges from your wings. One craft is neatly carved in half. Spikes of iron and glass twist up from the floor.
"...you can't control yourself anymore, Pheobe. That's why." Emma is the one to speak, dusting herself off.
"I--I can!"
"You fractured Eric's skull. You nearly gave Isela heat stroke -- hell, several of the Crusaders at the last Nexus can never go near a hydrogen reactor for the rest of their life. Not to mention the burns--" She frowns. "Can you really control yourself right now? Your wings, for SEED's sake, just look how big they are."
You glance back -- they reach a full fifty-five meters, and hang 'loosely' from your back. They stretch out across the entire hangar, and burn into the floor of the structure. Billowing streams of hydrogen fire curving and flowing organically. You try to retract them, but it proves difficult. You look down, taking a deep breath. A deep, ragged breath.
"What happens if the Outlanders piss you off? What happens if Nicole or a Family Head speaks out of turn, Pheobe? Will you be able to control yourself?" Emma snatches up the collar and slams it into your hand. You take a good look at it, focusing for once, without anger. It...its fairly luxurious. The metal is hidden beneath gold and silver filigree marked with suns. Gems are cut into stars and planted into the metal. The inside is lined with soft, silky, but resilient fabric. "It's self-powered, and --"
"It will drain half of your Willpower, I think, and prevent -- lets call it emotional discharge." Cephie volunteers, crossing her arms over her chest. "Civilized planets usually require us to wear these while on the surface. But they're used in training, too."
Post by: ZBridges on December 08, 2020, 12:03:44 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 08, 2020, 12:05:48 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 08, 2020, 01:13:22 am
Consider this training for your new power, to learn to control it. You need to reform your emotional core, desires and goals and seek some therapy where possible.
Figure out what you want and tell us, we can help you achieve it. Leave us alone without direction and we are likely to direct you to conflict or our own preferences of activities.
However the performance you made WAS quite impressive. If you do want to continue this war then a more controlled variant of that last battle would be quite valuable.
Post by: King Zultan on December 08, 2020, 07:31:34 am
Post by: Eschar on December 08, 2020, 11:26:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 14, 2020, 01:27:16 pm
[13][17 vs. 13] You twist, slamming your feet into his chest, forcing extra kinetic energy from your muscles. He staggers back, dropping you--
And you slip the collar around your neck and latch it shut.
It clicks with harsh finality.
The sharpness leaves your reality. The jagged edges smooth. You stumble, and trip, as a heavy weight descends on you. Your wings fade away to nothing. William, Emma, and Cephie feel so far away. Distant without the constant curling of their familiar willpower. You drop to your knees as vertigo overwhelms you. Your muscles tighten and convulse. You sigh, then rise. Unsteady, heavy, feeling...odd. You flex your fingers, and try to bring forth the simplest of tricks. A small fire.
Nothing. You swallow your fears, and look up into the expectant eyes of your friends.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on December 14, 2020, 04:14:28 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 14, 2020, 05:17:23 pm
Then you should talk.
Be honest but like don't tell them you were gonna burn the whole planet. I guess?
Post by: King Zultan on December 15, 2020, 12:20:03 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 16, 2020, 01:46:14 am
Emma raises an eyebrow. William shakes his head, his fists and muscles clenching. Cephie rolls her eyes and gives the faintest smirk. You awkwardly rub at the back of your head and pointedly look away. Then, after a long awkward silence, you speak again.
[9 vs. 3] "What I did...I did it for this planet. For its people. For you." You murmur, softly, not meeting their questioning gaze. "Do I regret it? Yeah. Every moment I'm awake. Would I do it again?" You hesitate. "Yes. In a heartbeat."
[20+2 vs. 9] You pull away the mask and cut the mesmer. A soft gasp rises from the group. Emma and Cephie both start forward -- but William, with his augmented strength and speed reaches you first. With brotherly concern, he grasps your chin and twists your head to look at the damage. "SEED, Pheobe, you really fucked yourself up. Again. Are you a fucking masochist or what? Be more careful." You blink up at him in surprise.
[11 vs. 13] "I...Yeah. I did." You finally murmur, as he hands you back your mask. You reapply your mesmer. Your obsidian and rust skin changes back to a light tan. "I killed the Crusaders that were there...I...I couldn't control myself."
"Shit happens. Not like the Crusaders will know." William states, his voice sharp. Harsh. "But you don't feel that way, right?"
"I...I feel guilty--"
"Good." William smacks you upside the head and sends you sprawling. Cephie raises a quiet protest. "Good. Own that shit. You don't have to come clean. Or make a big apology. Anything like that. But you've got to live with it, Pheobe. Forever. That blood is on your hands. Just like Zachary. Just like the Moores." His eyes track to Emma's pistol. 'For Polly' burns in gilt. "Forever. Tamp it down for now. Get back to business."
You nod.
"What were you saying earlier?" Emma interrupts, drawing close. "Something about the Plague?"
"A Plague Lord. One has arisen here."
"What's a--" Emma begins, then --
[12] Realization dawns on her fine features. Her blue eyes widen in shock. Then horror. "No. No. No -- fuck!"
William starts back, surprised by his sister's vulgar language, only for the same realization to strike him moments later. Horror and anger flares in equal measure. "Fuck." Is all he mutters.
Cephie hesitates, then, quietly-- "This isn't in my contract, Pheobe."
"What?!" Emma and William round on her at the same time.
"Coward!" William spits.
"Traitor." Emma adds, darkly.
"I will assist you with combatting the Plague. I will not die doing so." Cephie states, sharply. "And I have assisted without reservation or regard -- but that is not a fight we can win. I've got four cryopods on my ship-- we can escape. All of us."
Post by: ZBridges on December 16, 2020, 01:50:01 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 16, 2020, 02:00:45 am
Do you accept this amendment?
Post by: ZBridges on December 16, 2020, 02:05:24 am
Post by: King Zultan on December 16, 2020, 06:06:53 am
"Let an amendment be made permitting you to leave when it has been made clear to all that the Plague cannot be defeated, thus placing you in mortal danger, or in any other situation overwhelmingly likely to lead to your untimely death."+1
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 17, 2020, 12:12:01 am
"What now? Do you wish for me to call the council? The Outlanders and the Pi-- Skarinites too?" Emma questions.
William curls his arms around his chest. "The bitch in the suit wants us to--" He twitches and growls, his muscles seizing. "The-- the 'demon'," he spits the word with ill-disguised disgust, "Wants you to gather the materials for your arm. I could find them in your stead."
"And what am I to do, Pheobe?" Cephie pouts, resting a hand on her hip.
I'm...I'm a little out of my depth here. What should I be doing?
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 17, 2020, 12:58:54 am
Then again you might need to be as strong as him to face one.
There are several other possibilities the plague may be doing besides a plague lord with this behavior pattern but none are good.
The first is a plague army. This occurs when sufficient technology and military skill is absorbed for the plague to switch to a closer equivalent to a modern combined arms army rather then mad hive rushes. It requires a massive retooling of plague "production" and current "troops" so a retreat would be in order. It would depend on how much they managed to get out of the city before it fell. I have never seen a plague fully absorb a SEED, obviously they will self destruct before that as we have seen, but if it did I do not honestly know if an army or plague lord would be more likely.
The second is a sporing event. This is where the plague has calculated it will lose and is desperate. Many commanders welcome the retreat and go carefully. The plague though at this stage will use primitive rockets, it's natural resilience and any navigational data it has to make thousands to millions of very small ships. They will be high level contagious but very small, a micro plague mind in each. Then it launches them to anywhere and everywhere, moving at near but sub light speed. Latching onto other vessels, drifting through gates or making the long journey through interstellar space. It is theorized that the first plague did this but exact data is not available at this moment error found. This breaks the hive mind of the plague up so it is a kind of death and the plague is normally "selfish" so loathes this kind of loss.
The third is a core breach, basically digging a thermal borehole to draw energy and materials directly from the planet's core. That is rare but more common then a plague lord if it wants to up production and energy use. Will not see more powerful forms in this case just more of them... generally. This tends to make a planet... uninhabitable... over the long term though even for the plague so it is generally a desperation move.
As a note the plague is generally highly intelligent and unpredictable so ???
A plague lord must have preconditions to form though, see if the Numbers have information on any other hidden experiments SEED had out there, if it absorbed some sleeping ascended that would be... bad.
You still might be able to hit hard and fast, damage the plague's infrastructure before the thing forms so it has much less to work with.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 17, 2020, 01:05:33 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 17, 2020, 01:19:25 am
Be careful with Cephie, as sending her into danger may cause her to simply leave. Keep her here for now as a bodyguard since we rejected Isela's ultimatum. I assume the General has a backup plan, hopefully but not necessarily one that does not include violence.
Post by: King Zultan on December 17, 2020, 07:27:22 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 17, 2020, 12:39:24 pm
Phoebe, is this something you think you can do alone? I wonder what Constantine would have to say about this.
Post by: King Zultan on December 18, 2020, 10:05:07 am
Probably want to reserve nuking things for stuff normal weapons and powers can't kill.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 18, 2020, 09:50:44 pm
"William? Go. Hurry. The Exclusion Zone is going to be swarming with them soon if I'm correct." You command, giving a lift of your hand. William dips a nod.
"Call our allies. The Council. The Nulls. Anybody of use." You state to Emma, brusquely. Emma turns away, following after her brother.
"Cephie. I need you to be my bodyguard. Isela and the Military attempted a coup." You finish, looking to the -- man, in a Crusader uniform. Cephie as Crusader smiles back at you, showing off sharpened teeth. Her armor shifts and curls, forming a gas-mask to cover them. You give a slow nod.
In a little less than three hours, you sit in front of the most influential people on this planet. Your council is seated around you at the table, Isela included. Eric stands protectively at your back with Cephie-turned-Crusader. The Nulls stand stiff and straight-backed, staring straight ahead without expression. Murdach looms with menace in front of you, at the head of his Retinue. Rekhyt and Samrend lounge near the exit -- armed and armored. Several Family Heads, you can tell by the haughty disdain, stand behind Hoganson.
All of them, in some way, are focused on you.
"Thank you all for attendin--" Emma rises, playing the gracious host.
"Aye, yeah. Let's cut the bullshit." Murdach cuts her off, "Pleasantry has a place. Ain't here." A technician strides forward, setting up a paper-thin screen. A map of unfamiliar land masses stretches in front of you--
"That nub there." Murdach states, striding forward, gesturing at the screen, "Is the 'Holy Land.' Your fortress-state."
The image on the display changes -- a tremendous grey mass curls across the ocean. "An' that is some Plague Fuckery."
It's three times as big as the Holy Land.
"So what's the news, Pheonix?" Murdach finishes, his drawl abruptly cutting away to something more sharp and mechanical. "Because, in about two weeks, all hell is going to break loose."
Post by: ZBridges on December 18, 2020, 10:13:05 pm
"It looks like you already have some idea. We suspect that the Plague has created or is in the process of creating a Plague Lord, a powerful enemy, in preparation for a major offensive. This meeting is to discuss plans to mitigate or eliminate this danger based on the resources available to us. There is not much time, so decisions need to be made quickly."
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 18, 2020, 11:06:27 pm
"What's a Plague Lord?" Rekhyt questions, lifting his hand politely. "And...what's antimatter?"
"Imagine God is real. And he's fresh out of mercy." Murdach offers to the Outlander.
"What?"
"...right. Savages. Uh..." Murdach lifts a massive gauntlet to his face. "Imagine Patches, except bigger, meaner and without restraint."
"Pheonix has restraint?"
"...you do not know how much." You state, darkly.
"You have a navy?" Murdach questions, looking around at the confused council.
"What's a navy?" Isela returns, genuinely confused.
"Well, fighting it over the ocean isn't a good idea then. We can bring more firepower to bear on the land."
"We've survived Plague plenty of times before." Hoganson lifts his hand to comment. "Is this...Plague Lord that much of a worry?"
"Found it, boss." A Skarinite technician calls from Murdach's retinue. The image on the screen changes to a video.
...A city burns beneath a dark, stormy sky. A massive figure looms over the inferno of buildings as dark figures rip and tear their way through the streets. Ichor rains from the sky...then the city is gone. The camera cuts out...and an image of a planet takes its place. Black cancer spreads out from a supercell. A thousand wings of red cut through the atmosphere, reaching into the Void as the storm spreads to consume the entire planet...
It cuts.
And there is nothing but silence from the crowd.
"Was--was that a..."
[15] "It was. That was our homeland, once upon a time." Murdach states, stoic. "There's no running. There's naught but to do or die. So me and mine will die on our feet."
[1]"This is your war, Pheonix." Samkrend rises, making to leave. "The Khagnate will stay out of it."
[18] "Are you a fucking idiot, father?" Rekhyt rounds on his father.
[14+3 vs. 12-1] "...I'm sorry? What did the sniveling pup just say to me?!" Samkrend twists to face his son -- and receives a knife to his gut. Rekhyt was fast, faster than you could react -- you rise, trying to use your Willpower to stop the fight --
[8+3 vs. 13+2] Samkrend's knife flashes to his hand -- and he slices his son across his face. A spray of blood follows the path of the blade. Murdach looks to you and begins to move --
[1][19+3 vs. 15] But it's too late. Rekhyt dances forward and slams the knife up to the hilt into his father's gut. Samkrend crumples back, staring at his son. Blood streams down Rekhyt's face. The youth leans down to his father and seizes the older man's arm. Samkrend's muscles curl back, pulling it free from Rekhyt's grasp--
"You've gotten strong," Samkrend gives a very disgusting, hacking cough. More like a retch than anything. "Your siblings?"
"The elders will be of no issue, for a time."
"Good." Samkrend draws an ornate, black knife from his belt, and extends it towards his son. "Good luck, Khan Rekhyt."
It takes an hour for the council chamber to be cleaned, the non-combatants to be calmed, and for Rekhyt to return -- devoid of weapons besides the black dagger. "The Outlanders vow their support for as long as I have it."
"What is the plan, Pheonix?" Rekhyt's manic grin is replaced with grim determination.
Post by: ZBridges on December 18, 2020, 11:29:40 pm
Do we organize a defensive line at the shore, perhaps a bit inland to bring everything we have to bear, and/or do we try to find the Plague Lord himself, the source? Also, we may need to enact conscription. I wonder if we could funnel it into a kill zone...
"Could we use munitions to funnel it into a smaller area, a kill zone?"
Post by: King Zultan on December 19, 2020, 12:44:22 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 19, 2020, 10:52:51 pm
Post by: King Zultan on December 20, 2020, 02:21:22 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 20, 2020, 02:25:24 am
Post by: King Zultan on December 20, 2020, 02:56:11 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 20, 2020, 04:35:13 pm
[14]"Silicon and another, unknown matter. It's highly probable that it is a nanite swarm." Murdach explains, with a nod, pulling up a graph. "Higher concentrations of silicon."
"A dust storm. Bless." Cephie murmurs.
"Would we be able to funnel it into a killzone?" You state, after a pause.
[1] Murdach goes quiet, staring at you intently with the eyes of his Voidmarine suit. Then, "If we had a choice morsel as bait, yes."
Post by: ZBridges on December 20, 2020, 05:33:30 pm
"I'm sorry, what? A 'morsel?' Is there any other way to redirect the nanites?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 20, 2020, 07:13:49 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 20, 2020, 07:19:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 20, 2020, 08:28:07 pm
[5x[2d10]][~10] "No, but if you have enough copper we could create a steady field generator by cannibalizing our ship." One of the Skarinites volunteers. "If we could tune it to match a gathering of [Ascended] hypothetically we could draw the Plague to a location. But it wouldn't hold up to a visual inspection."
"...we have plenty of copper in our stockpiles." Armssmith volunteers, politely.
"And if we kept the Plague away, we could prevent recon long enough--" Isela continues, frowning.
"If they managed to get a look at it though -- we'd be screwed." Murdach intones. "But every Plague beast and their mum would be drawn to it. It'd be like moths to a candle."
Post by: ZBridges on December 20, 2020, 09:01:50 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 21, 2020, 01:32:57 am
A grand play the plague can scout out all they want to confirm the treat is really there. With the main threat phoebe neutralized by restraints so they can eat her and the other ascended with no problem.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 21, 2020, 02:05:19 am
Let them see what you want them to see. A bunker holding the "gathering of [ascended]" in a secure area. A group of ascended sent to take down phoebe and hold her on trial. With Cepheid you can fake any number of ascended moving in and out with various powers faked from each others abilities.when the plague gets there we’re taking off the collar, right?
A grand play the plague can scout out all they want to confirm the treat is really there. With the main threat phoebe neutralized by restraints so they can eat her and the other ascended with no problem.
Post by: ZBridges on December 21, 2020, 02:45:10 am
Post by: King Zultan on December 21, 2020, 03:47:30 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 21, 2020, 05:57:52 pm
"And where might that location be?"
You hesitate.
"If I may interject, Mother Pheonix." A null quietly speaks up. You swivel on the chair to face him.
"If we are to be detonating fission and fusion weapons, as probability dictates, we should be within the Exclusion Zone or the Plagued Lands beyond, to limit further climate damage within the fertile Holyland," Zero explains, expressionless. "Our models already show that this winter will last deep into summer, and the Exclusion and Plague zones will be uninhabitable for at least fifty to one hundred years."
He pauses to confer with another Null in a whisper. "This, however, forces a higher level of security."
"We need to stop the storm before it hits inhabited areas." Murdach adds, "Or it will spread rapidly through your population. Like cancer."
"Logistics will be difficult." Isela murmurs, "We'll be straining human resources and military materiel alike."
"I will convince the Outlanders to supply both. We have a surplus of food this year." Khan Rekhyt announces. "I will need staging for my forces within the Holyland, however."
"As Minister of State, I have my reservations about a barbarian army within our borders." Hoganson interjects, "As we witnessed, this man easily betrayed his father for political gai--"
"Tell me, Family-man, does your kind still keep the old way of honor duels?" Rekhyt questions, a hand resting on the black blade of his father. "Or are you so spineless and stupid that you cannot see the apocalypse approaching?"
"Regardless of Hoganson's spine -- I too have reservations about a heathen army within our borders." Sterling opines.
"I can k--" Rekhyt is cut off by Murdach's heavy gauntlet on his shoulder. The aged pirate pulls the smaller man away and leans in. His speaker cuts low, very low. The two part after just a moment. "I can convert, if it would bring you and your people a sense of ease, Mother Pheonix."
Post by: ZBridges on December 21, 2020, 06:20:28 pm
"We'll establish the killzone within the Exclusion Zone."
Post by: King Zultan on December 22, 2020, 03:37:20 am
Post by: Eschar on December 22, 2020, 10:31:17 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 22, 2020, 11:47:12 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 22, 2020, 03:49:02 pm
If you find this frustrating feel free to let some anger show. Just a little, control and use your emotions and all that. Even a small display might be enough for them to work together long enough for it to matter.
Post by: ZBridges on December 23, 2020, 03:09:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 26, 2020, 04:00:35 am
[19][22]"Children of SEED. Leave the room." You command. You rest a hand on your neck while they file through the double doors. When the last leaves your sight, you unclick the collar. The temperature in the room rises. It's slow, until you devote willpower to the energy transfer process. Then your ministers begin to sweat. You leave it loose as you cross your arms over your chest.
[15 vs. 14]"As far as my concerns go, my future [consort, companion, habitual associate] is already baptized. Not with oil, but with blood." Your High Empyreal word-play draws a grin from Emma, and you can hear Murdach chortle beneath his mask. A small grin dances across Rekhyt's lips.
"What...what does that word mean? Mother Pheonix?" Sterling questions, tugging at her collar in the sudden heat.
"I am a mortal God," You begin to explain, crisp and polite, "I am unlike the Holy SEED in that regard, Sterling. I bleed, I eat, experience pain and pleasure -- and I make my own choices." You finish with a sudden sharp rise in your voice. The temperature in the room spikes.
[12]Sterling looks confused. But the others assembled understand. You think. Maybe.
"[Such a decision is inconsequential. Unless I decide the Khan deserves a longer life, I will outlive him by many lifetimes more. Political expedience is of the utmost importance. There is, as he said, 'an apocalypse approaching.']" You explain in the highest tongue of SEED Scholars. "As for the Outlanders...Do you think the Plague cares? For the Plague there is no difference between Familia, Crusader, Skarinite, or Outlander. In the coming weeks, we live and die together as one. One Planet. One Species. One Alliance." You explain, drawing your dark gaze across the room. Those assembled go quiet as you continue. They pay you rapt attention as you lift your voice, as you vent your frustration. "We live and we die as one species! Do you understand?!"
[30]You rise to your feet and slam your hand down on the table. It creaks. You let your wings burst forth with a flash of light in the same moment. "We live and die as one! The only alternative is our complete destruction."
The room is dead silent. You click your collar shut, and the reaction of your wings dies with a gentle fizzle. "If anything threatens our chances of victory over the Plague -- I will be furious. Is that understood?"
There's a low chorus of cowed agreement.
You nod and start your stride out the door. "Take whatever measures are necessary. Establish the 'Killzone' within the Exclusion Zone. Excuse me."
No one follows, to your great relief, and you take the elevator to your suite. The bed welcomes you into its cold, soft embrace. You watch the snow accumulate to blanket the mountainous crags of Stormont. Day turns to night with a bloody red dusk. You make to head to the hangar, but the full-length mirror catches your eye. Blood-red hair hangs down to your ears. A mask of iron covers your face, and you peel it off to examine the scarring. A vain hope. I never thought I'd long for my previous plainness.
"Why do you yearn for your previous mask, Patches?" A young, androgynous figure with dark hair drops into a seat behind you. They flip a gold and black coin with concern twinkling in their black eyes. "You should know by now that the faces you wear are naught but a façade."
"...who are you?"
"I don't make a habit of answering questions. I will give you and your elders one answer each, however. I owe you that much. Think before you as--"
"Who are you?" You repeat, reaching towards your collar.
"No one. Every one. You can call me Father, as Sol seems to prefer to manifest as maternal -- but gender is such an outdated concept for our species at this point. That your's answered." He speaks in perfect, high Empyreal.
Post by: ZBridges on December 26, 2020, 04:07:33 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 26, 2020, 04:13:29 am
"But to answer your question, yes and no. I am and I am not." The youthful figure sits and crosses a leg over the other. They give a patient smile.
Post by: King Zultan on December 26, 2020, 08:11:52 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 26, 2020, 01:46:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 26, 2020, 07:32:13 pm
"As for the Plague...yes, there have been instances of it communicating without the medium of its Infection. I communicated with it once, long ago or sometime soon. A strange entity, hardwired to destroy. A reflection of the virus of life."
Post by: VoidSlayer on December 26, 2020, 08:21:15 pm
Phoenix needs a way to control her power without diminishing it, and does not have the time to do work it out conventionally. Can you please tell us another method she can use?
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 26, 2020, 09:05:04 pm
"Pheonix, Patches, Pheobe -- she is a mutation. An unexpected evolution caused by a unique Ascendance. A genetic null, an entity with no personality, memories, childhood or relations suddenly burdened with a dozen unique histories. Her lack of control comes from the inherent flaw within such a creation. A self-destructive drive created by a wish for oblivion and a wish to truly live."
"I am not self destructive." Pheobe blurts out, scowling and stamping a foot. "I do no--"
"Shush, child. You bear more scars than those with a thousand more years of history."
"I am stronger because of it!" She growls.
"And weaker too. Or haven't you noticed how Emma and William have the control you lack?" The Emperor lifts a single finger. "I will not give you the peace you need to find yourself. Only you can do so. My recommendation is this: release yourself from the chains of your physical form. Embrace the lack of existence that is your birth right. Find who you truly are through the first step of true apotheosis."
"And how do I do that? In less than a week I fight to save the humanity on this wretched world."
[∞] The entity gestures out the window. Snowflakes are suspended mid-fall. The sun hangs frozen in time. It all fades to black, until only you and the Emperor/ess stand amidst nothingness.
"This does not wipe away your guilt, Shi." A soft voice whispers with Patches' lips. "You are complicit. Tell me why."
"I seek only to turn lead into gold, Sophie." The Emperor smiles. "What other reason--"
"Liar."
"--a storm approaches. The Plague is naught but the first drops in a deluge that threatens to wash away The Great Work. I will only provide the anvil. The rest is left to those that came before and after. Others of your Line still have a question. I will provide it when they awaken."
Post by: ZBridges on December 26, 2020, 09:15:54 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 26, 2020, 09:30:06 pm
"I...I don't know how. Tell me how." She whimpers.
You look down at your body. There's nothing there but a faint blurring of dust, coiled around a core of old memories that define your personality. A dim fire smolders within that core -- an echo of an ancient star that burned brightly. You look around and spot the other prominent lights within the void -- but there are still more cores, more motes of dust and history and life--
But Patches does not have that light. She burns only with borrowed fire, insulated with stolen memories.
"Division of the whole into many parts. The first step to understanding a composite."
Post by: ZBridges on December 26, 2020, 09:43:04 pm
You are what you will yourself to be. If you are cold without your own fire to warm you, create the spark yourself.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 27, 2020, 04:56:13 am
Post by: Eschar on December 27, 2020, 01:21:35 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 27, 2020, 01:30:13 pm
Patches huddles in the cold of the abyss. Separate and afraid.
Post by: ZBridges on December 29, 2020, 06:21:13 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 30, 2020, 01:35:39 am
In that void, however, there is a spark. A buried memory that smolders and smokes. Patches clings to this spark. The truth that she could never stand.
...a needle stirs you from your sleep...black liquid burns at your veins...for the first time you can think. Reason comes soon after...
"How's the progress, Clark?" Alphira speaks with an upward tilt of her chin. You stare at her, unable to comprehend. You lift your chin up to mirror her. Am I Clark?
"Good. The low exposure levels are introducing some fascinating changes in biology." That must be Clark.
"Any level of sentience?" Alphira paces around your [tube].
"No brain activity whatsoever," Clark reports, he lies! "We've begun installing wetware programming and reinforcing neural pathways for increased proficiency in high mathematics, information gathering -- other standard null imprinting."
"Fantastic. How's its projected loyalty?"
"Almost as high as you wanted without a full imprinting algorithm. We're meeting all set goals, Captain." Clark sounds proud. He begins to ramble about the wetware until Alphira cuts him off.
"How soon can we expect full decanting?"
"Within the month. Maybe next week."
"I want you to push the levels of [Dust] injection higher." Alphira states.
"...I would advise against that. We're keeping brain activity low--"
"Do it. We need results."
Alphira leans in close, revealing a scarred, twisted face. Black eyes stare at you, then widen. "It's staring back. The wretched little thing is staring back."
"What? Impossible. There's no -- shit."
"Terminate it."
"Alphira, it's sentient; doing so would violate my [Gene-wright] oaths."
Willpower rises around her, twisting into the vat -- the fluorocarbons begin to warm in response. You twitch as your nervous system encounters its first real stimulus: pain. The water boils, and it's only by dint of your Ascended biology do you survive her attempt to kill you. Her willpower fades and ebbs. You blink back at her in silence, unable to form the words.
"Decant it. Stick it in cryo. This isn't the weapon I wanted, Clark!" Alphira sounds angry as she glares at you. "It's worthless to me now! Sell or chute it to some backwater...I'm not paying you for this..."
You lay in the twilight. Alone. Half-sleeping. Half-dreaming. You struggle to find a diversion. Struggle to find something to occupy the space you linger in unwillingly. But there is nothing: nothing but the cold, cold embrace of the eternity within cryostasis.
A process begins to run—a half-entity.
"...open it using the interface..."
[Interface.]
"She says to drop it into the Void. It must be worth somethin'. Some dirt or somethin'...it could be her daughter for all we know."
[Void]. [Daughter].
"It's jus' a brain-dead brat Loomed from some backwater DNA...ain't worth shit." They discuss what to do with you -- death, slavery, or 'chuting' until they settle on ignoring Alphira's orders and selling you first chance they get.
[I'm scared.]
[Don't be. I'm here.] You create her from half-thoughts. Memories of old maternal figures from past lives. A personality to nurture and care for you...to provide something. Any type of stimulation in this hellish half-life.
You lay in the twilight, half-sleeping, but you are no longer alone...
You drift through the stolen memories of your elders. Past books in ancient libraries deep beneath the crust of the planet. To a golden palace. Through jungle. Alphira's memories were the clearest. The [Interface] gives you lives worth living by fragmenting the memories of those that came before. She assembles you piece by bloody piece until a personality forms -- a stitch-work creation.
Before she awakens the others--
Alphira stands above you with a transfusion kit. Blood streams from her many savage las-gun ruptures. There is none of that willpower you once saw, [ages] ago. She's weak, but in her eyes burns a horrific madness. She slams the needle into your arm --
You drift in space like the rest of the trash—another eternity. The Interface and Alphira plot together to save themselves. A nudge of hydrogen here. And here. And here. They consume us, our memories, our souls as the planet below grows more prominent over the years. Heat. Then pain. Then silence.
"Don't die on me." Alphias leans over you, speaking to Alphira ages ago. You are dying the same way she once did, but no one cares enough to coach you through it. Through this suffering. You take solace in this stolen memory as your life fades, as your blood flows--
"Keep breathing." Alphias swims into focus. He's wearing his old leather and plate armor from the station. A monogram of a heart sits above one of the plates. He holds Alphira delicately as medics struggle to stop the bleeding. Struggle to stop the advancing Plague from consuming her. "Please. Please. Please... Not you too."
"Sir -- she's dying. There's nothing you can do."
"There's one thing." From the pockets of his armor, he pulls out a black vial full of powdery, black, Dust. "T-try this. We found it on the lower levels."
"Isn't this--?"
"We found two."
"We shouldn't waste it! Elias is a strong warrior -- perhaps he wo--"
"Do it!" Full of righteous anger, Alphias grabs the medic by the throat. "She is my [daughter, lit. 'cell that replicated,' usually concerning adopted, Loomed children]."
A needle tears a hole.
Alphias looms over you -- or is it a medic? Who-- the world swims again -- Envy overwhelms you at Alphira's luck -- You spit a wad of blood into somebody's face. Defiance until the end! Anger at the universe that bore you into these circumstances. Anger at those that came before that did nothing to make your life better.
Patches, the emotions, the fears, the wants, and needs, cradles this spark with reverence. Could she cry, she would. But she has nothing but her grief. And her anger. This is my value. Nothing but a tool. A weapon for a childish goddess. I'm measured by my worth to advance a plan or by my ability to kill. I've stolen sparks of life from others because I have none of my own. I am a void. A null. A non-entity.
This isn't fair! I was born hated by a galaxy -- this hellhole of a planet included. I was born into war and bloodshed and death. But I fought tooth and nail to control my fate! But in the end... it's all for nothing. Every choice I make leads to a defeat, another conflict, more pain, and more loss. Why should I struggle? When gods and demons conspire against me? When I survive one battle only to find another?
ANSWER ME...please...gods above...please...
Post by: ZBridges on December 30, 2020, 01:56:57 am
One day, you will be the equal of the forces that oppress you. That day will be glorious.
Post by: Eschar on December 30, 2020, 02:09:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 30, 2020, 11:34:31 pm
"...this is a moment of Apotheosis." The Emperor whispers, staring at the youthful entity in front of you. "For now, there's only a single spark. That is all that remains when every falsehood has burned away. The truth accepted. But there's energy there. Potential. A moment of revelation. A milestone on the path to becoming her true self."
"Do you wish for her adaptability, her continued strength in the face of adversity? An impossibly strong savage?" A hollow-eyed Patches stares, silent. Periodic elements untold coil at her fingertips as the universe bows to her strength. When she smiles, her teeth are razor-sharp and stained black with the Dust of Ascended. Slitted pupils track you. Fixated.
"Or is she the fire of change? A blaze with a true belief in her divinity? In her mandate of heaven?" Pheonix smiles, 'benevolent.' A pair of golden wings hangs from her shoulders. Light radiates from her, but the blood and ash of a dozen dead worlds dims that radiance. There is no mercy in her eyes. She lifts her chin to look down at her Elders. Haughty. Powerful.
"Your choice, Elders of Sol's Line. Strike while the metal is hot. Shape her as you see fit." The Emperor/ess sits, cross-legged. It flips a coin. "Will begets form, but perhaps you could settle it with a coin toss?"
The Emperor/ess smiles. You consider your choices as one, but separate, distinct entities.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on December 31, 2020, 12:06:11 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 31, 2020, 12:27:06 am
What are your thoughts on the matter, Constantine?
Post by: King Zultan on December 31, 2020, 07:01:36 am
Post by: ZBridges on December 31, 2020, 10:59:02 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 31, 2020, 11:08:06 pm
Post by: ZBridges on December 31, 2020, 11:19:49 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on December 31, 2020, 11:54:31 pm
Post by: Eschar on January 01, 2021, 12:03:57 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 01, 2021, 12:10:23 am
"Be logical. Make the simple choice I have provided."
Post by: ZBridges on January 01, 2021, 12:26:16 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 01, 2021, 12:30:22 am
Post by: Eschar on January 01, 2021, 03:34:47 am
or so we tell ourselves. though our choices have hardly always been in her favor.
Post by: ZBridges on January 01, 2021, 03:42:26 am
There's probably some sort of compromise we could all agree to.
Post by: King Zultan on January 01, 2021, 07:29:33 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 01, 2021, 08:50:20 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 01, 2021, 06:17:52 pm
Emma.
...your head lays in Emma's lap. In front of you, a nub of charcoal dances across thick sketch paper. She sketches a flower that has sprouted from the weathered remains of a campfire. Hidden away within the copse of trees, you watch as she whiles away the hours with her work. There are no words spoken. Only comfortable silence. She runs her black-stained fingers through your hair when she finishes her work. You do not protest. Emma rewards your patience, your comfort, with a warm smile. She leans down to kiss you...
A spark emerges from the nothingness that surrounds you. It swirls suspended in the half light of this void. Then, it joins with the other. The two dance within the event horizon of Pheobe's self-hatred, falling in and out of her anguish, but escaping further and further each time.
Academy.
...you sit with your classmates in the library. Emma and Erica try to stifle their giggles, but the rest of your clique does not. You hold one of Emma's handkerchiefs to your face, stemming the flow of blood that drips from your nose.
"You are -such- a meathead, Pheobe." Emma giggles, shaking her head.
"Look, I can't help it!" You protest, with a scowl. It is funny, looking back, but at the moment you just felt weak.
"You can't cook, can't read, and math makes your head hurt." Emma ticks off on her fingers, raising her brow. "You better thank your lucky stars you're mine or else you'd be -miserable-." She and Erica adjust their seats, leaning in closer.
...
It takes you hours, but the two of them help you correct and translate your Scholarly Thesis. "--fuck." Emma rarely curses, but it was quite a difficult task, "That's good enough. You understand the language, but your grammar is awful. But that will pass."
"Thank you." You murmur, exhausted. Erica rolls her eyes, patting you on your shoulder as she rises to leave. Emma gathers her things, giving you a peck on your forehead.
"I know you don't need it, but get some sleep." Emma tousles your hair, leaving you hunched over your work.
Another spark joins the duo, drifting along.
"...Don't call me that." The Emperor/ess murmurs, "And there's the edge of the coin."
Post by: ZBridges on January 01, 2021, 06:28:57 pm
Post by: King Zultan on January 02, 2021, 07:22:06 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 08, 2021, 12:46:36 am
Time twists in on itself. Reversing. The morale event horizon broadens, freeing Pheobe from her grief and agony. The Emperor/ess tuts, turning away from the youthful figure that rapidly forms itself back into existence. "We could have done so much more!"
"Have you no curiosity? Have you no--"
[20] Pheobe, having regained her senses, staggers to her feet. She strides to the Emperor/ess, taps the entity on the shoulder -- and slams her fist into its face. It blinks, staring at the clenched fist frozen in place against its skin. "Did...did you just try to punch-- I am--" The Emperor/ess stutters, confused. "W--why?" It manages.
"Fuck you! You're worthy of nothing but defiance!" Pheobe screeches, rearing back. The Emperor/ess backs away with wide eyes. This time, this time, the blow lands, and its pale flesh reddens from the strike. Pheobe doesn't hesitate, she strikes again and again. "I'm free. I'm free! I'm free. And there isn't a damn thing any of you can do!"
"You dare to strike Go --! I am the blackness that this ga--" The Emperor/ess attempts to draw itself up, scowling. But its rage is cut short by another strike of Pheobe's fist.
Pheobe shouts. She stumbles over herself as the Emperor/ess backs away into the darkness of her mind. When the figure recedes, when reality begins to take hold once more, she spits. "A true god could do more against a crippled girl--" She rounds on you, "And you! I'm going to beat the existential shi-"
--You wipe the foggy mirror. Extraneous and lingering defiance thrums within you as you stare at your reflection. It takes a twitch of will to drop the Mesmer and inspect your obsidian-black skin. You take in the scars, the missing limb, and your rust scarified flesh. Your disgust with your true form has lessened. It surprises you.
...what just happened, and why am I so pissed off right now? Pheobe queries, independent of her shared self.
[25] On a whim, Pheobe runs a process. The gaping scar across her face knits itself shut. The twisting scars there seal into a thin line across her cheekbone. The metallic-obsidian sheen of her skin fades, leaving nothing but the scarification on her flesh. She teases her red hair for a moment. It too shifts in color, turning to light, vibrant blue from the dark, bloody red it was previously.
Fuck Alphira. Fuck my future, my past-- I'm free, godsdamnit!
"I'm free." You growl and slam your fist into the mirror. It shatters and falls from the frame. You turn away, only for the coin to catch your eye. A savage grin crosses your lips as you snatch it up. You flip it into the air --
--and turn your back before it lands.
Emma is waiting in your foyer, her brow furrowed in concern at your triumphant stride from the room. Mitch circles at her feet. The Barker stiffens, his hackles raise. He growls when he sees you. A pang of worry stabs at you -- until he bounds over to you. He isn't pleasant, nipping at your hand savagely until you pet him. The ferocious Barker stills and lets you scratch at his ears.
"Can we talk, Emma?" You ask, hesitating. "I...I really need someone to talk to. Someone I can trust."
"...you still trust me?" Emma the skeptic. "And we have a lot of work to do..."
"It was you or William, but he has the emotional understanding of a puddle. And he'd probably take it as a romantic gesture." You explain with a crooked smile. Then you let your smile fall, unable or unwilling to mask it any longer. In a whisper, swallowing to try and contain your emotions, you can barely breathe the word -- "Please."
"Oh SEED, it's serious." Emma jokes, but the mirth dies when she catches your expression. "...yeah."
It takes hours, but she listens. By all the gods does she listen. All of your baggage, your internal struggle, your pains. You tell them all without restraint. In the end, you lay curled in her arms on the couch she technically owns. Your face is wet, and could they be irritated, you're sure your eyes would be red. Longing brings the words to your lips, "Emma. Look into the future. Look again. But don't tell me what you see. Just-- just please."
"I don't want to see that again, Pheobe."
"Please."
[19 vs 3+5] Emma looks down at you -- and her eyes grow cloudy. They clear seconds later. Her concern and hesitation replaced with confusion.
"It's...there's nothing."
"What?" You blink. "And you weren't supposed to tell me! What if that--"
"There's nothing to change, Pheobe," Emma explains, cutting you off sharply, her brow furrowing. "There's just...it's a gray fog."
[26] ...that breaks you down.
"Pheobe -- are...are you laughing or crying right now?" Emma asks, confused all the more by your reaction.
"I don't know!" And without restraint, you pull her into a hug.
"'I don't know.' How can you not--" It dawns on her a moment later.
And then you're both crying.
You and Emma eventually collect yourselves. With a ragged sigh, she straightens. The mask of regal regent descends to calm her emotions. "We'll...we'll talk more later. William returns in an hour. Silas is planning the arm implant operation on his arrival."
She reads from her mental list.
"The Skarinites have returned to their ship to work out the necessary materials and blueprints. The Crusaders are mustering under Eric to claim territory in the crater of the Holy City. Isela and the council are working out logistics with Rekhyt's retinue. Murdach is assisting with everything he can until he leaves with Eric."
You nod.
"The Nulls are assisting--"
"Don't call them that." You cut her off with a lifted finger, "The Numbers."
"...The Numbers are working on the calculations and heavy lifting with the math. Zero, along with some Scholars, have assembled a report on the Holy City's fall from eye witness accounts -- Crusaders whose retreat was staggered. Or deserters from the fighting. I asked for a copy."
"I figured it would be a good place to start." Emma drops the file down for you. "Is there anything else we need to do before the implant operation?"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 08, 2021, 12:58:21 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 08, 2021, 01:16:42 am
Don't forget to pick up some ballistic and plenty of nutrient cubes, though that can wait until after the operation. Worst-case scenario, perhaps the Plague Lord would submit to single combat.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 08, 2021, 01:32:45 am
A grey haze... an all-consuming swarm of nanites? The end of the world? The end of everything? Or a vision denied by an Emperor/ess that is everywhere and everything and nothing? Perhaps we advised poorly.Why do you think a plague lord do single combat when it has nanites at its disposal?
Don't forget to pick up some ballistic and plenty of nutrient cubes, though that can wait until after the operation. Worst-case scenario, perhaps the Plague Lord would submit to single combat.
Post by: ZBridges on January 08, 2021, 01:34:48 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 08, 2021, 01:50:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 08, 2021, 01:51:38 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 08, 2021, 02:23:54 am
A deep search on Plague Lords reveal that absorbing an Ascended does have unexpected consequences. The Plague Lord develops certain emotions, primarily 'negative', all derived from its base existence. It is still driven by an innate need to consume, assimilate and convert matter. Its hatred of humanity turns from destruction for survival to destruction for pride. Its hunger fuels anger and rage. An Ascended naturally acts in accordance with certain lawful tendencies such as vows, promises or geasa or self-imposed regulation of some sort. However, these tendencies do not reflect in Plague Lords created by the assimilation and infection of an Ascended. They are freed from the Emperor/ess' imposed Plague Laws.
[23] Plague Lords cannot understand human emotions, which make it hard for them to control themselves. This creates difficulty when it comes to higher applications with the field generated by 'Dust' as the entity becomes unstable in focus.
From personal experience, it would have to brute force any high level arithmetic. It would have to damage its own processing capabilities for things I find unconcious...but its mass would allow for a greater field of effect and strength when concentrated. But, it would still have to draw its energy from somewhere...
Post by: ZBridges on January 08, 2021, 02:48:59 am
Also, where does it draw its power from? Perhaps we need to find that location and destroy it, if possible in conjunction with the current plan. Or maybe I'm misunderstanding what the source of its power is.
Post by: King Zultan on January 08, 2021, 07:49:08 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 08, 2021, 07:46:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 13, 2021, 12:17:25 am
“[That armor loves to play up the ‘demon’ bit.]” Emma expresses, contemptuous.
“Can I help you?” The sixty-six scholar questions, quiet and polite.
“…yeah, we’re here to see Silas.” Emma states.
“Oh. He’s not receiving visito—”
[13 vs. 4] ”We’re here to see Silas.” Emma insists.
The scholar gives an odd twitch, bowing her head. Turning, she leads you down the hallway. She unlocks a non-descript door and ushers you inside. The room is dark, lit only by makeshift monitors. Papers are strewn about the place and crunch underfoot. Silas is resting his head at his desk, with half-lidded eyes fixed upon his own hand. It shines gray and silver in the dim light. He tracks his gaze to the two of you, silhouetted as you are by the doorway.
In a smooth, graceful motion, he draws out an autoinjector. With a click, it deposits its chemical payload into his veins. Within seconds he is sitting up right. A warm smile stretches across his lips, but it does not reach his eyes. He waves with his synthetic hand. You track it.
[20]“How?” You question, as he flexes it organically. You can tell there is no lag between intention and movement. Implants at this level are centuries beyond what should be possible with the technology this planet possess. “That’s…decades beyond what should be possible here.”
“Ava. The Demon. Flesh.” Silas beams with excitement, “It’s called PlagueTek. What I’ve done is broken down the Plague to its smallest possible form, built a small emitter field to reconstruct it, then bonded it with the neutralized Plague nanites in my own system. She showed me how—her avatar, the Demon Armor, is of similar construction, but uses a complicated ferro-silicate as a medium as opposed to a Plague based one.”
[5-5][19-5] Silas’ hand twitches. He pales, swallowing. Then it separates into dozens of tentacles, shifting and moving organically. Then it shifts back into a hand. He gives it a flex, giving you a warm smile. "Your implant will be of a similar nature."
"[Are you afraid?]" A nearby monitor questions, with a modulated, feminine voice. It speaks in high Empyreal.
Post by: ZBridges on January 13, 2021, 01:02:23 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 13, 2021, 03:46:11 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 13, 2021, 03:49:10 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 13, 2021, 03:51:36 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 13, 2021, 05:56:23 am
Post by: VoidSlayer on January 13, 2021, 03:39:46 pm
My primary, concern would be that the nanites are insufficiently "deactivated" and could be retaken by the plague, either remotely or by direct contact.
You really MUST ask him about safety features. And if he brushes such things off I would recommend he is far too gone to be useful.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 13, 2021, 04:08:25 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 14, 2021, 01:21:07 am
"[Silas calls me Ava. The Flesh was my vessel for a time. I've managed to create a network here large enough to sustain a copy of my mind.]"
"[And what is your real name?]"
"[Princes-- Queen Avania The Fifth of her Name. Of the Tomb World Avernus. You know my story already, Daughter of Sol.]"
"[Who taught you all this?]" You gesture at the hand. Then you feel awkward until a camera clicks as it focuses on the gesture.
"[I stand on the shoulders of giants. As do all scientists. Reboot The Tenth, Shi The Ancient, Wesley Thompson of Old Earth. Others.]"
"Is it safe?"
"No." Silas and Avania speak as one.
"...elaborate?"
"Psychoses. Nightmares. Involuntary twitching." Silas rattles off, dead eyed. "But I don't sleep anyway!" He giggles. Hysterically.
"Is it safe to use near other Plague?"
"[For you. Side effects include an increased metabolic intake, headaches, tingling, weakness, pain, increased aggression, and corruption of your personal 'Dust' history.]"
"[What...what does that last one mean?]"
"[You'll be sterile in every sense of the word. If you pass on your 'Dust' there's...I project complications. A lot of complications. Complications that even I cannot fully understand. But am I correct in assuming you've committed the amaranth of devouring another Line?]"
"[What does that have to do with anything?]"
"[Judging by your tone you don't need to worry. Ascending anyone else is out of the picture now. Unless you want to create an abomination with the voices of multiple lines in their head.]"
Post by: ZBridges on January 14, 2021, 02:19:53 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 14, 2021, 03:26:32 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 14, 2021, 03:30:58 am
"[When would we start?]" You question.
"[The cost of the implant is three favors.]" Ava explains. "[And you will need to follow my instructions to a 'T'.]"
Post by: ZBridges on January 14, 2021, 03:33:02 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 14, 2021, 03:46:10 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 14, 2021, 03:47:05 am
"Can you elaborate on those tests?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 14, 2021, 03:48:01 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 14, 2021, 04:13:02 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 14, 2021, 12:15:37 pm
Post by: VoidSlayer on January 14, 2021, 06:39:56 pm
Also as long as the tests will not cause long term damage I do not see the issue.
Good to know also not to try and ascend anyone else! I suppose your other allies will have to do that instead if you ever want to expand the number.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 14, 2021, 10:12:35 pm
"[Acceptable. As a show of good faith, I will also disclose my bounty.]" A small image of the demon armor, a strange code, and a list of names appears on the screen. Queen Avania the Fifth of Avernus, the illegal artificial intelligence(?) has a standing bounty of fifty million Empyreal Credits.
"[And the experiments?]"
Spoiler: A list, with dates, appears on the screen. (click to show/hide)
"[Do you need me to abide by the laws of the Gene-Wright Guild when it comes to sentient life? That will put a hamper upon my experiments. There's more profit without such limitations.]"
Post by: ZBridges on January 14, 2021, 10:46:29 pm
"[If we can agree to that, I will accept your terms.]"
Post by: VoidSlayer on January 14, 2021, 10:59:11 pm
In addition the particular work they are doing is very dangerous. You should require inspection before a product is approved for release into the wild. Not like every single item but anything new.
Restrictions could be relaxed once the plague is defeated in the local system.
Last requirement would be better care of Silas's health. Working the man into the grave for short term gain is an inefficient use of valuable resources. Remind him this is a marathon not a sprint.
Post by: ZBridges on January 14, 2021, 11:26:45 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 15, 2021, 12:08:52 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 15, 2021, 06:19:22 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 16, 2021, 11:32:09 pm
"[That will be enough for now. I will hold you to your words, Line of Sol.]" The monitor flickers, and a camera feed shows William dragging both a blackish-gray chunk of metal, and a silvery wad of muscle. The Flesh is splattered in black. War-Machines carry in other parts, trailing behind their Warlord. William tosses the parts into a room that resembles both a foundry and laboratory. In the center of this room the operating table awaits. Silas rises. Emma and you follow him out into the hallway. Ava explains the procedure as the two of you walk.
"[There will be no anesthesia.]"
Your lips twist into a frown, but you continue onwards.
"[The pain will be intense, as such, you will be fitted with another nullifier. Physical restraints will be utilized.]"
You take a ragged breath. Fear gnaws at your stomach. But you continue towards your fate.
"[Second phase is the installation of the fusion reactor. In the third phase, you will need to control a high temperature fusion reaction to melt and shape the nanite-composite of the SEED-ship hull. If you lose control, I will force William to terminate you.]"
"You bitch!" Even down the hall, you can hear William's sharp response.
"[Or we all die in an explosion that makes the Holy City look like a firecracker. Shut up William. The adults are talking.]"
Gods. This...is this still a good idea?
"[I estimate that this will increase your power by approximately twenty-five to thirty-three percent as the nanites are assimilated. It will provide a self-mending hydrogen powered, light-based weapon. A powerful shield that can withstand up to -- the kinetic force equivalent of a large fusion bomb.]"
"[How should I shape the metal?]"
["I recommend something demonic to instill fear. But that is up to you and your ancestors. Think of your [brand, projected image.]"
I'll leave that up to you lot.
Begin operation? Y/N
Post by: ZBridges on January 16, 2021, 11:42:54 pm
"If the side-effects are intolerable, can it be removed?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 16, 2021, 11:45:28 pm
The computer effects a laugh. "[Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha. No.]"
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 16, 2021, 11:48:36 pm
As for the shaping, so long as it is functional, I don’t care what the shape is
Post by: ZBridges on January 16, 2021, 11:50:05 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 16, 2021, 11:56:20 pm
Ava is operating with her normal level of charm, I see. The risks are so high... I'm going to sit this out a bit and see what the other Ancestors think.I see no reason to sugarcoat things. It’s good she’s telling us exactly what’s going to happen
Post by: ZBridges on January 16, 2021, 11:58:23 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 17, 2021, 12:19:49 am
"[I will also be filming the operation. For posterity.]" Somehow, the monotone drone of Ava's speakers manages to convey a childlike glee.
...She's going to enjoy this.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 12:23:25 am
Post by: Devastator on January 17, 2021, 02:25:12 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 02:38:22 am
What goal requires more power, anyway? I didn't see anything that wasn't already stoppable via hypervelocity cannon.The Plague Lord comes to mind
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 02:55:08 am
The arm would come in handy for that phase, but if we could do it remotely, I agree that would be better.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 03:08:40 am
I do think it's possible that it isn't necessary. The explosion would hopefully deal with the nanites The Plague has already generated, but it wouldn't necessarily destroy the source of the nanites themselves, either a Plague building or the Lord himself, in order to prevent more from being generated.It needs to connect to the body. We’re already this far, the tool has been made, why not put the tool to use?
The arm would come in handy for that phase, but if we could do it remotely, I agree that would be better.
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 03:11:55 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 03:14:25 am
In for a penny, in for a pound as the old saying goes.
"[When would we start?]" You question.
"[The cost of the implant is three favors.]" Ava explains. "[And you will need to follow my instructions to a 'T'.]"
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 03:19:33 am
"[Second phase is the installation of the fusion reactor. In the third phase, you will need to control a high temperature fusion reaction to melt and shape the nanite-composite of the SEED-ship hull. If you lose control, I will force William to terminate you.]"
"You bitch!" Even down the hall, you can hear William's sharp response.
"[Or we all die in an explosion that makes the Holy City look like a firecracker. Shut up William. The adults are talking.]"
Gods. This...is this still a good idea?
"[I estimate that this will increase your power by approximately twenty-five to thirty-three percent as the nanites are assimilated. It will provide a self-mending hydrogen powered, light-based weapon. A powerful shield that can withstand up to -- the kinetic force equivalent of a large fusion bomb.]"
"[How should I shape the metal?]"
["I recommend something demonic to instill fear. But that is up to you and your ancestors. Think of your [brand, projected image.]"
I'll leave that up to you lot.
Begin operation? Y/N
Post by: Devastator on January 17, 2021, 04:09:39 am
Mind you, that isn't a reason to say no. But on the surface, if you could already destroy a planet, there already was sufficient power to solve the problem. The question is what you do, in what way, and how do you do it.
(Not voting. I won't interact with any metafictional elements that address me as a player.)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 17, 2021, 04:13:27 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 04:21:59 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 04:32:44 am
Post by: Devastator on January 17, 2021, 05:10:37 am
In simple terms, I'd much rather experience the world the author is creating, rather than to create it myself in a game like this. Active roles are for games where you are an actual character.
In other words, metafictional elements ask me to create a character to play in game, when what I want to do is to read and see what happens. Being jumped on by an endless pile of nonphysical beings just takes away from the accomplisments and the problems of the MC, imo.))
Post by: King Zultan on January 17, 2021, 08:01:57 am
We've already come this far we might as well go the whole way and get the arm.
Post by: Devastator on January 17, 2021, 02:25:46 pm
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 17, 2021, 02:28:39 pm
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 05:05:06 pm
Because we were busy with other things
I think he's saying that the restrictions preventing us from modifying our baseline physical form have been removed.
Post by: Devastator on January 17, 2021, 06:00:15 pm
Particularly since there's already a glamour which means there is no one image of Phoebe. I don't see the point of having a lump of misshappen flesh under some kind of glamour for.. some reason? Spite? At least at this power level.
Post by: ZBridges on January 17, 2021, 06:05:26 pm
It's a similar issue with the arm. Once it was consumed, the missing arm became part of her baseline physical form, and further attempts to re-grow the arm were fruitless. The Phoenix identity has remained since the destruction of the Holy City, so it can't really be said she is a different iteration.
Post by: King Zultan on January 18, 2021, 02:01:23 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 02:10:07 am
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 04:34:11 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 04:38:17 am
If you can survive losing cohesion and becoming a mass of stuff, and reform a body from that, you should be able to reform a body from that which has two arms.
Phoebe's body is capable of returning to it baseline physical form. I would recommend searching the thread for the word "baseline." This is a restriction that seems to have purposefully been placed on Ascended, some sort of limiter.
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 04:44:02 am
(And I know there was a failed attempt early in the thread to do that with something more minor, when she was a lot less powerful, that failed due to a bad roll.)
(Thirdly, knowing how to form and control limbs could well be useful towards manipulating her ever-growing massive wings of sharp flame she is apt to manifest. Between that and the uncontrolled fusion reactions, control is simply an element of power, and one that is in my opinion, far more necessary. A partial success or a limb that is only an imitation of flesh would be better than nothing, and can be improved on.)
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 04:51:43 am
Sometimes the rolls are just how bad the failure will be. The presence of a roll does not confirm any ability.
Yes, it would be useful to be able to grow and control limbs, but as I said, it's impossible due to the restrictions that have been placed on Ascended. She would require carbon manipulation to be able to achieve that.
Look, if we can regrow the arm, then I would be all for experimenting with that. I apologize if I'm coming off as hostile. It's just that everything I've been told suggests that it isn't possible.
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 18, 2021, 05:10:43 am
Her baseline form has not been changed by her abilities specifically or their results. It has been stated that the change comes from significant emotional experiences that go towards defining her as a person. It's possible she may able to artificially engineer these moments, but so far all the changes to her baseline have been negative in nature.This. The reason the new arm was made is because a new arm couldn’t be grown. The operation must begin
Sometimes the rolls are just how bad the failure will be. The presence of a roll does not confirm any ability.
Yes, it would be useful to be able to grow and control limbs, but as I said, it's impossible due to the restrictions that have been placed on Ascended. She would require carbon manipulation to be able to achieve that.
Look, if we can regrow the arm, then I would be all for experimenting with that. It's just that everything I've been told suggests that it isn't possible.
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 05:39:38 am
"Her baseline form has not been changed by her abilities specifically or their results."
The very existance of a 'baseline form' is something created by her abilities. Such a thing would not exist without those abilities. What you're saying is that the only currently-known thing that results in the baseline form being changed are significant emotional experiences.. and that does not mean there is no other way, nor does it mean it doesn't operate through her powers
"Yes, it would be useful to be able to grow and control limbs, but as I said, it's impossible due to the restrictions that have been placed on Ascended. She would require carbon manipulation to be able to achieve that."
Or make an iron limb and use it as a prosthetic. I see no reason that said manipulation cannot extend towards creating things that feel arbritrarily lifelike, given sufficient time and practice.
The one thing she was said to be lacking in was control. And almost completely lacking in such. I suspect that dedicated efforts towards controlling said powers would render such an arbritrary restriction as 'baseline form' meaningless.
Getting this arm isn't a wrong choice, but it's your choice. Phoebe would be fully capable of developing every ability granted to her by the arm without the arm, be it making her own internal, personal fusion reactor or producing a sufficiently lifelike artificial limb. Getting this one grafted is a specific choice being made, not a necessity.)
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 05:24:34 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 18, 2021, 05:54:22 pm
You question if your skills could create a simulacra of your arm. You do not know for sure, but considering you can manipulate four universal elements. Such things are possible. Far easier than suffering through the memories of your agony, as well.
You contemplate if Cephie could assist. Organic carbon manipulation is her forte, after all.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 06:21:18 pm
Not being able to fix it through direct healing abilities doesn't mean it can't be fixed, just that a different path is needed. If you're worried about her forgetting her sacrifice, there's no reason to expect any lack of scarring or any loss of memories.
I would prefer it to involve Phoebe's powers on some level, as learning limb manipulation would be immensely useful for those massive wings of razor flame. Maybe do a replacement made by her to use while the replacement is being grown.
Or take this one for temporary use while planning the replacement.))
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 06:25:19 pm
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 07:28:52 pm
My thoughts are more about materials. Producing an arm of ice should be possible, by manipulating hydrogen bonds to keep water freezing at a much higher temperature.
More strength could be held by doing the reverse for an arm of rocky material or glass, which can be made by combining silicon with oxygen. It could then be manipulated to be more flexably bonded, and more similar to carbon instead of forming endless rafts of silicon dioxide. Or impurities can be used, along with extra heat from fire to make a hot molten glass-like arm that's flexable and strong.
Or just go with a detailed, complicated arm of iron.
Chlorine seems less useful for making solid materials.
There's also the possibility of an arm of fire, to directly try to translate into wing control.
As for what physical shape, dunno. If you want an arm, though, it should be an arm. Or arm-like. Since one made of her powers would be temporary, could do other things with it, depending on what you'd like to practice, if the attempt is successful. It probably also wouldn't have to be just an arm or exactly like one.. that would probably be beyond her control for now.))
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 07:36:05 pm
It would also be helpful to get a better idea of the Plague arm's capabilities so that we can make an informed decision.
Post by: Devastator on January 18, 2021, 07:49:28 pm
I would also bet the arm is removable, if we had the knowledge to make sure it was installed in the right way. To be honest, I'm worried more about the fusion engine than just the arm or the extra nanites.. I bet Phoebe could learn to make a way, way better internal fusion engine than one she just finds, with practice, but working off an obsolete one that once belonged to someone else would hinder her in the long term.
The arm is a massive amount of extra power right now, which would be useful... but I'd strongly recommend at least trying to negotiate for more if you do decide to accept it, be it knowledge, power, etcetera. Biotech skills, how to make replacement limbs, etc.))
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 18, 2021, 08:03:40 pm
Post by: ZBridges on January 18, 2021, 08:15:38 pm
The Plague has never seen our chlorine powers, so it may be very susceptible to that. Could we have some sort of gaseous arm, or one made from other elements which is surrounded by a cloud of chlorine gas?
Time is short. Start by asking Ava to detail the features of the arm.
Ask her if it has any advantages over an arm created through element manipulation.
Post by: King Zultan on January 19, 2021, 05:39:19 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 19, 2021, 05:41:00 am
Post by: King Zultan on January 19, 2021, 06:55:21 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 22, 2021, 12:06:08 am
"[Through the procedure I intend to bond the Plague nanites with your own. I hope that this allows the nanites to convert to your own over time. My belief is that such an action would increase your field strength.]" Ava states in response to your query.
"[Would the built in laser weapon become obsolete? Especially if compared to ones I can already create?]"
"[I should hope, in time, you are able to manipulate the composition and material of such a weapon.]"
"[Would it be better than a prosthetic of my own design?]"
"[Now? Yes. As you seem to have no interest or knowledge in the most basic of sciences. You currently function with base instinct, and have never thought of developing your scientific skills further than 'hydrogen burns'. You treat it as magic; unknowable and chaotic.]" Ava's clipped, robotic voice drips with disdain. "[In the long term? You could create one better than anything I could make at this time. But that depends on you actually developing your intelligence as opposed to using brute force to solve your problems. The probability of that is quite low, however. So get on the table.]"
Ouch.
"[But you were raised in such a superstitious society. You're not entirely to blame.]"
Post by: ZBridges on January 22, 2021, 01:42:27 am
I do think she's right, however. We need to learn how to use our powers more versatilely and efficiently.
Get on the operating table.
Post by: King Zultan on January 22, 2021, 07:39:23 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 22, 2021, 05:15:35 pm
Get on the operating table.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 26, 2021, 12:07:41 am
The Flesh, independent of William, approaches. You step into it. There is a sharp pain in the back of your neck as the suit inserts the probe to scan your brain. You twitch, annoyed at the invasion of privacy, but if Ava sees something of interest, she does not mention it. Your muscles tense and relax as the Flesh tests your reflexes. Then there’s another sharp prick into your remaining wrist. Finishing with you, it sends you tumbling to the floor.
You strip off your jacket and shirt. Emma neatly folds your clothes as you lay upon the cold metal operating table. Screwing your eyes shut, you fight the welling of panic as nullifying bracelets are strapped to your wrist. Strength wanes until you can no longer even lift your head. The pounding of your heart within your ears slows to a crawl.
The restraints click shut.
You turn your head to watch Ava twist and manipulate the Infected matter within a cohesion field. She slices with microscopic scalpels, induces with electromagnetic fields, and purifies the bloody sinew. It takes her a mere matter of minutes to shape the unidentifiable Plague muscle into something resembling a human arm’s musculature. With its initial work completed it drags the flesh over to your prone form. The ‘limb’ hangs from the carriage above you. It twists and writhes in perversion of organic nature.
Silas pulls on gloves as he approaches. He pulls a visor down over his masked face and drags part of the operating carriage closer. “You will feel a sharp prick, and then indescribable pain. Try not to squirm. Ready?”
You do not even finish nodding before Silas carves into the flesh of your shoulder. Biting your lip you stifle the scream that rises within your throat -- glad for your natural pain tolerance after only a few seconds of the operation. But as blood pours from your body, as Silas clamps shut artery and vein, the pain does not stop. It only gets worse as Silas and Ava tease muscle fibers free, as they cut into scarred bone, and it doesn’t stop even as your new ‘arm’ descends.
At some point you realize you’re screaming and unable to stop. Emma forces your mouth open to jam something into it. You bite down hard on the wood – her hand finds yours. It doesn’t help the agony, but it provides some comfort. The pain dulls.
[25] The fresh wound begins to itch. Phantom feelings of fingers, of an arm. The table feels cold under your new appendage. You slump, relaxing as the pain fades away.
[1] Ķ̷͉͇̬̦͕͔̮̙͖̃̓̔̃̑̃̑̓̄͝Í̶̡̧̯̞̺̭̱̩͇̤̝̺̺͛́̎͒̒̓͘L̷̢̡̢͓͚̰̪̲͈̩̯̰̆́̒͐͋̌͑̃̏̍̔͜͝L̴̰̞͈̞̾̌̒̈̕
What began as an ache turns into a thousand stabbing blades, digging into your chest and side. Throbbing deep into your flesh. Your muffled screams fill the operating room anew. Your new arm flails. Razor sharp edges forming from the malleable material. You try to bring it under control.
[5 vs. 8] Silas stumbles back with a cry of surprise as razor sharp claws attempt to rend him from gut to chin. He gulps, lucky to have been spared the wrath of your rogue appendage. You struggle against your bonds— H̶̛̠̩̲̭̗͋̍̐̑̈́̏̕͜͠ͅU̸͖̣̤̐̐̍̅̈́̀̃̔̉̅̊͠͠N̵̰̿͊̌G̵̢̜͖̹̭̗̟͘E̶̦̯̼̥̦̹͗͋̎́̂̋̽̓̚͝͝R̶̳̭͓̣̳̻̟̣͋͂̽̋̎̿̃͂̄̋͝
[27][30][30] And then you take a deep breath. You clench your teeth. You focus. It is a great strain to still the raging beast within the new limb. It writhes and it struggles and squirms with the bestial hunger you know all too well. You assert your dominance over it with a twofold strategy. First: you bludgeon it with your identity, with your mental strength and fortitude. Then, as it rages against you -- you cut the flow of nutrients and oxygen in those veins. Its flailing weakens. Then it stills, dying.
You repeat this process as Silas and Ava look on in stunned silence.
Feelings flood from the limb, and you flex the new muscle. A lingering voice urges you to consume everyone in the room, but you silence it. You silence it just as you silence the voices that tell you to flood the room with chlorine or rip the organs out of everyone here until their iron rich blood paints the room in burgundy…until it drips from your maw… IMPALE!
Hush.
You reach over with your new arm, ripping away the restraints, ripping away the nullifying bracelets. You rise from the slab. As soon as the cheap bracelets fall to the floor your wings burst free. Attendants and your retinue scrambles. Machines are moved – and your great billowing wings of hydrogen stretch wide over the room.
You approach the chunk of SEED plating. Somebody calls your name, but you ignore them.
You study your new limb in the mirror-like finish of the dull gray metal. New muscle of grey and silver bulge and grow. It covers your shoulder in organic growth, long tendrils reaching across your lithe chest. Sharp razors of iron and nanite jut from the tentacle. It only resembles a human arm in that from your palm grow five sharp talons in the place of fingers. A small reactor hums with energy in the upper arm, and a laser array sits within your wrist.
[36] Drawing your will into your flesh, you reform it. The talons dull into five fingers. You drag them along the ancient metal and cannot help but smile as you trace the cold surface. You can feel the lack of heat. You can feel the material as it hums beneath your fingers.
You spot a large tank of hydrogen gas and rip it apart with your willpower
[20][18][32] You condense hydrogen into a ball of volatile plasma centered around the SEED’s hull metal. Nothing happens for the first ten thousand degrees. Then the cascade begins. You focus the immense heat and energy back in on itself until it glows. The metal sits suspended, held in place by gravitational forces.
[22][25][33] The room remains at a bearable temperature, but blood drips from your eyes, ears, and mouth. It takes all your focus not to lose control of this tiny star, not to wipe Stormmont from the face of this planet. The metal begins to turn red then white. It separates and rises to the surface of the hydrogen, dulling the color. You make minute adjustments to the ball of super-hot gas and metal – a nudge of the gravity the ball is producing, a transfer of energy from one section to another. All to prevent the superheated metal from flying out and exploding.
What shape should the metal take around the tentacle that is your arm?
((Level up. Bah-bah-bah-dun!))
Post by: King Zultan on January 26, 2021, 05:46:05 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 26, 2021, 11:40:12 am
Post by: ZBridges on January 26, 2021, 01:04:44 pm
Something arm-shaped seems appropriate. Maybe etched with a pattern of flames or a symbol representing SEED?
Post by: King Zultan on January 27, 2021, 02:20:34 am
Post by: Naturegirl1999 on January 27, 2021, 09:40:34 am
Your will is legend, Phoenix. Use this new power wisely.Yes, a symbol sounds good, something representing Pheonix
Something arm-shaped seems appropriate. Maybe etched with a pattern of flames or a symbol representing SEED?
I mean if we can we might as well make it as fancy as possible.So long as the fanciness doesn’t interfere with functionality. What kind of fanciness modifications are you thinking?
Post by: VoidSlayer on January 27, 2021, 02:19:14 pm
I would recommend making heavier plating near the hand or forearm in order to block attacks more effectively then the rest of the arm.
Also seems like all our bickering and mad ideas helped in the end, she could certainly shut the plague beast mind up, ha. Also I guess welcome plague beast you are welcome to chat if you can be civil! That was a joke.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on January 28, 2021, 01:34:29 am
[33][26][
Safe now, you drop to your knees, fighting the vertigo of starvation and the damage to your logic processors. The Thornton siblings approach. Emma wraps a coat around you -- and beats out the fire that sprouts when it touches the burning hot metal of your new arm. You rest for a while only looking up as radiation shielded attendants rush in with fire extinguishers and water.
William has to carry you to a decontamination room. Emma protests. She carries you to your medical wing. You drift to sleep as soon as you hit the soft bed.
[5]
Blood. Blood and iron. It clogs your senses, and you try to swallow against it. But there is no relief. It pounds in your ears, in your heart, in your chest.
It only fades when pineapple and pepper flood your nose and throat. You choke, struggling to breathe against the noxious vapors.
Rage. Anger. Pain. Fear.
...you are a swirling cloud of chlorine gas that sends 'Crusaders' to their graves as you stroll through the town. Your respirator hisses as you look upon your fallen foes with the innocent delight of a job well done...
...you sit in a tree and nibble on a ration pack. During a pause, you look out over a field of Crusader corpses impaled on savage strands of razor-edged wires...and you cannot help but grin with savage joy...
...A figure approaches you. His face is wrapped in a cloth stained with blood streaming from his eyes, his ears, his nose. He smells of urine -- you pay him no mind until the cutter blade rips into your chest and out your back.
...One of these pathetic 'Crusaders' rises back to his feet. You already ripped away his arm, but he still struggles. Like a worm on a hook. He sways and pitches forward. You laugh -- overlooking the las-gun he angles towards you. That is, until your head and torso explode into red mist.
[4] You scrub at your eyes with your new hand -- and your flesh bruises from your accidental over-application of force.
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Wealth (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Contracts (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Ties (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Holdings (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on January 28, 2021, 01:56:04 am
It's no good to only destroy the nanites that have already been generated if it can just generate more. Perhaps we'll find that the explosion isn't even necessary.
Post by: King Zultan on January 28, 2021, 05:18:44 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 01, 2021, 09:18:55 pm
While, just as the Philosophers of Old did, you feel conflicted about this ancient skill, there is no guilt in this war. Only the joy of a craft well practiced by a skilled artisan. Isela gave you an operational range and strict orders to return to the site of the field generator for resupply and rest, but let you fill in the blanks on your own. So, after flying to the site overlooking the great Holy City Crater, you gathered your zealots, and began to ply your profession.
Physics, chemistry, fire, iron, and lasers; the tools of your trade. With these weapons you rain Infected ichor down upon the scorched earth. Ruined city after ruined city is purged by nuclear fire, by burning iron, by artillery. Your Zealots, those Crusaders that follow your craft like apprentices to a master, provide support where they can. And when they die, if they die, they die happy to have given their life in this pursuit.
You have not slept in six days. Eric, in two. You lay against each other, exhausted. The hovercraft shivers and shudders as it flies towards the forward operating base. Many of your Zealots steal whatever sleep they can in these rare moments of peace. You started with fifty of these hardened Crusaders. You clad them in gifted carapace armor and advanced weapons, providing them with tools, so they could provide you. support and reconnaissance in the harshest of battlegrounds. They, in turn, provided you with respite and information. Now your Zealots number twenty-nine in total. Clad in the red and gold armor, they menace even in the throes of fitful sleep.
“There’s been no major assaults on the forward base in the last four days.”
“Good.” You were on the edge of sleep when Eric roused you with his mumbled report.
“We’ve pushed all the way to the River Noir.” Eric continues, voice amplified by the suit's internal circuits. “We need to rest.”
Your lips curl into a frown. “You have my leave, if that’s what you wish.”
“Thank you, Mother Pheonix.”
You nod and get back to the pressing issue—sleep. You never realized how exhausted you could be.
The generator, you note, is complete. It hums beneath the earth with immense power, emitting a willpower field in mechanical mimicry of your own. The room dug above it is where you’ve set up a field headquarters. Isela and Emma join you from the safety of Stormmont as you doze. Maps appear on the screen, but you pay them no mind, not really.
“…as you can see, there’s a continent in the western sea. We’ve determined that’s the center of the Infection. The storm would prevent air support from reaching it – not to mention the high altitude low atmosphere anti-aircraft weaponry. The Skarinite observation craft sustained damage during its flight...” Isela drones on, unable to get to the point—
“We cannot reach it.” You interrupt.
“Not without flying through the Storm. The Outlanders lack the prerequisite operating bases.”
“So we have to destroy the storm?”
“Yes.”
“Do you have a plan?” You rub at your face.
“Yes. If you so request, I will send the operational map by courier.”
“Op-operational map?” You blink.
“I’ve been studying military doctrine. I made it in the [Empyreal] standard style: [American-Terran Strategic Operational.]” Isela notes your exhausted appearance, "Or I could just explain it."
Post by: ZBridges on February 01, 2021, 09:39:14 pm
Post by: King Zultan on February 02, 2021, 06:45:52 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 03, 2021, 11:46:22 pm
The Mobile Operation Base, while bearing such a boring name, was anything but. It was one of the largest hovercraft in the fledgling fleet. Fortified with carbon-nanotube plating, filled with fusion reactors, Voidship sized weaponry and the most up-to-date communications array that this planet could provide. The Pirate technicians ripped apart the Valhol for parts and shredded their sleep schedules to finish it.
Amphetamines, you note, with a hollow grin, had replaced tea in the foundries and workshops of your world. Twenty hour shifts were the norm now. Every man, woman, and child was working towards Paradise. Your Preachers proselytized that now, now was the end of days. Now was when all of Humanity would need to band together. When sacrifice was not only required, but mandatory.
"...and why is that, again?" You ask, scratching at your jaw with a clawed hand.
"Morale and strategy. You have limited strength, as all reports suggest. You require a huge expenditure of energy for your powers. I want to use you to strike hard, and strike fast when an important target presents itself or the [antimatter] fails." Isela looks up from her document. "Do you have a problem with that, Mother Pheonix?"
She looks old despite her age. You note, with a focusing of your eyes, that her hair is starting to grey. That there are wrinkles and marks of stress. Her once animated voice is slow. Almost sonorous now.
"Mother Pheonix?"
"Sorry." Your mind drifts when you're sleep deprived.
She awaits your response, but you change the subject. "Eric and William?"
"Leading soldiers on the front line. They volunteered."
"Emma?"
"Well I--" Isela is cut off by your consort.
"I will be on the Mobile Base." Emma tosses some hair over her shoulder. "If we fail, it'll be a quicker death. Opposed to when it rips Stormmont apart, of course."
"Murdach and Rekhyt?"
"In charge of their ambushing parties."
You nod until Isela interrupts.
"And uh-- Nicole Gainer is...well she's demanded a spot in the action."
You scowl, considering all she said.
Post by: ZBridges on February 03, 2021, 11:58:42 pm
"Where is Cephie?"
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 04, 2021, 12:14:37 am
"She left. Today. Filled up her ship and, I assume, is sitting cozy in cryo somewhere in orbit. She's not answering my calls, and her datapad is far more advanced than the Pirate's. Hacking proved...ineffective."
"As a side note," Emma continues, in high Empyreal, "Murdach has rigged his ship to explode if we fail."
"Justified."
"And I've instructed Ava to blow Stormmont's reactors in much the same way."
Post by: ZBridges on February 04, 2021, 12:28:26 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 04, 2021, 12:34:59 am
"Is-is everyone?" You question, confused.
"William is in Thornig, visiting Polly's grave." Emma offers.
"Eric is at the Applegate Farm." Isela nods.
"Rekhyt is boozing and whoring it up with his soldiers."
"Murdach is doing the same. Nicole is apparently with him."
"And I intend to visit the Family Crater." Emma snarks, smiling faintly.
Post by: ZBridges on February 04, 2021, 12:42:23 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 04, 2021, 12:47:50 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 04, 2021, 12:51:09 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 04, 2021, 07:54:08 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2021, 01:16:00 am
The wings of air that the craft rides upon couldn't possibly match your speed, but you still make good time. It is a five-hour flight before you disembark in the center of Thornig, formerly Steelworks Number Nine, on a makeshift landing pad in an battle-worn plaza. The industrial juggernaut of a city that Nicole built upon the back of cheap labor and cheap resources is still marked from the civil war. Las-ruptures crater the walls and debris spills across the bombed streets. Straw and tarps cannot keep out the cold from the exposed innards of burnt-out buildings. Crusaders, tall and strong and grim in their greatcoats and gasmasks patrol – covered in dust. Coats marked with blood. Several bow in silence and fall in line as you make your way to meet with the Thorntons.
William and Emma both stand beneath the grey sky, in the cold breeze, waiting patiently for you to arrive. William dips a nod. Emma flashes a cold smile. With a glance from the twins, who’s electric blue eyes blaze, the Crusaders give a bow and leave the three of you alone.
“Welcome back.” Emma quips to you, indicating the city with her gloved hand, “I do hope Thornig is to your liking.”
“I didn’t think it was this bad.” You murmur, taking in the grim desolation.
“We haven’t had the resources to clean up after the civil war.” Emma shrugs, “Many districts have a similar story.”
You frown. Your gaze catches on thin, brittle, black spikes embedded in one of the pre-fabricated metal walls.
“Cephie?” You ask William, ticking your head to the spikes.
“Mopping up some fanatic, yeah.” William murmurs, then, aggressively, “Do you really need me to babysit you two brats? Or can I go now?”
Emma starts to speak, but William doesn’t wait, trying to leave with a mumbled, “Wonderful. [Cool.] Thank you.”
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2021, 04:42:23 am
Post by: King Zultan on February 10, 2021, 06:27:00 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 10, 2021, 11:34:08 am
Post by: ZBridges on February 10, 2021, 06:26:59 pm
Post by: King Zultan on February 11, 2021, 03:45:15 am
How about visting the church? Maybe Brother John is still here.+1 I also think we should visit the doctors house that we woke up in, you know to see how far we've come.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 15, 2021, 09:07:10 pm
“Thank you.”
Emma lifts a hand in a parting wave, leaving you to regard the church that still stands in the center of this battle-scarred town. You hesitate as you remember your supposed youth. Remember standing at these doors ages ago. Wondering if you should enter the hallowed grounds. That choice, and the meeting with that stern Mother after gave you everything you have now. Nicole gave you a name and the world. Her machinations brought forth the strength of the planet and delivered it right into your hand.
She’s a genius. Without her weaving her spider’s web, this world would be doomed. But as it stands, now we have a chance. You step through the doors. The smell of unwashed bodies assaults your nostrils. Your Crusaders lounge around heating elements or makeshift fires in the damaged building. The pews, once comfort to the praying faithful, now smolder in burn barrels or upon the prefabricated floors to provide another form of comfort. The pedestal that once held the orb of cog and nature combined, now bares a much smaller golden statue in your likeness. Your soldiers shift in confusion. Awareness dawns amid their fatigue.
The Crusaders snap to attention as you approach the pedestal. The figurine takes liberties, but there’s no denying that it is your visage they’ve replicated in the worthless metal. The Androgynous features. Seven great wings. A las-gun in a single hand. Missing arm. Someone has, however, taken great pains to carve cogs and bullets into the surface.
[19] You unbuckle one of your restraints. Iron twists free of the floor. You add a biomechanical arm – holding the spear you once used as a nuclear trigger.
“Mother Pheonix,” Begins a captain, approaching with a swagger, his coat folded over his arm. You snap your collar tight again, taking him in. He is young, but most of your Crusaders are now. He walks with confidence, with a bowed head and a gas mask hanging from his neck. A slug rifle is slung over his back, and, an honest to the gods metal sword swings at his hip. “To what do we owe this great honor?”
“I was wondering, is there a Brother John here?” You ask, looking away with disinterest. Are my people so poor we’re using actual metal swords now?
“There are three. Is there a last name?”
“No. He would have been here before the current occupation.”
“Ah.” He looks uncomfortable. “There…there was no one here before our occupation. Raider-trash held the church. We don’t know what happened to the congregation.” The Captain frowns and bows apologetically. “Was he a friend?”
“No.” You state. You favor him a warm smile – and leave without another word.
It takes you time to hike out to the outskirts. The remains of Doc Mitchell’s life have been picked through with a thorough efficiency. No useable metal is left. No scrap or appliance. All that remains is worn charcoal overgrown with dying weeds. Even the fateful incinerator is gone, the cement pad it was once perched on scrawled with graffiti and weathered by new growth. You step into the remains and pace to the place of your rebirth. No real emotion strikes you, and you make to return to the city.
[12][17] You notice it when you leave – a small safe, buried beneath rubble and overgrown with weeds. It sits bolted to the concrete. Sturdy and rusting, but secure.
[8][12] Guessing what your ancestors would want, you pry it open with a touch of Willpower.
A las-magazine, some Jade Outlander coins, and SEED credits are brushed aside as you rummage – you pause when another glint of gold catches your eye. A small golden picture frame highlights a colored picture. The colors are rudimentary, having been filled in after the picture was taken, but its those colors that bring you pause.
An older woman and a young girl hug a smiling Doc Mitchell. They beam as a family, smiling warmly, if a little stiffly, at the photographer. A golden band gleams on the woman’s ring finger, and another adorns Doctor Mitchell. The young girl sits upon Doc Mitchell’s lap. A perfect tableau of familial bliss. The happiness isn’t what surprises you, though. It's the hair. Both the mother and the daughter have blood red, shining hair that tumbles down their shoulders.
A genetic rarity, among the brunette children of SEED and the insular, consanguineous children of the Families.
You feel a little dizzy as you consider this discovery.
Post by: ZBridges on February 15, 2021, 11:59:22 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 16, 2021, 06:07:36 pm
A memento mori. You think of the photograph.
Post by: ZBridges on February 16, 2021, 09:31:56 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on February 21, 2021, 09:00:57 pm
A single figure stands. Her blond hair billows in the radioactive breeze. Her hands are shoved into the pockets of her greatcoat. Emma favors you with a wane smile as you approach and brushes the hair from her face. In low Empyreal, she murmurs a soft, “’ello Pheobe.”
You return the smile and come to stand with her. In silence.
What was once a palatial castle is nothing but a deep crater lined with glass and rubble. The smell of ozone still lingers in the air. Latent radiation was probably seeping into your bones, dust particles accumulating on your clothes and in your lungs. Your internals will no doubt filter out the poison, but you’ll have to requisition a new set of clothes. Emma’s willpower reaches out to you – you undo your collar—
The connection is spotty, but your perceptions of reality twist.
You see the castle through her eyes, staring at an older William-ish figure behind a desk.
I was never free, Pheobe. Emma doesn’t speak, but her words reach you in quiet compose. Always stuck in Family politics. Slaved to a system. I was set to be married to somebody I never met. Never loved or cared for.
You listen to her memory, to her father lecturing her about her responsibility to the Family. You feel her anger, her hopelessness, her fear. Your stomach tightens –
“Silas? Could you…let me borrow one of your anatomy books?” A young Silas doesn’t even glance at you.
“Page two-oh-eight. Female anatomy.” Silas speaks softly as he hands you a book. You tense, but there’s no judgement there. No attempt to stop you. He knew better. “The surgeons don’t lock up the scalpels. Burn the book.”
Emma gives a sharp, unpleasant laugh. The connection dies. “…You have to suffer for your freedom. Sometimes. William became the [jaden, of jade] boy after my…outburst. After I 'acted' out.”
She spits into the crater, bitterness evident in her voice. “I’m glad its gone.”
“Lets go gather William and face our fates.” Emma murmurs, turning on her heels, “And I’ll say my goodbye to Pollyanna.”
You contemplate the crater.
Post by: ZBridges on February 21, 2021, 10:05:03 pm
"I'm sorry. I promise that you'll never have to worry about anything like that ever again. As tou know, you are a powerful member of our society now who can make her own rules." Follow Emma.
Post by: King Zultan on February 23, 2021, 09:13:56 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 02, 2021, 11:32:49 pm
You blink.
“Minor and major.”
“How—”
“Your power and influence leveraged.”
“Why didn’t I notice this?” You question.
“William runs your internal affairs and your minister of the state is a firm—very firm family man. All about that blood purity shit.”
“Why—why are you telling me this?”
“Because I still care.” Emma states, beginning to walk away once more. “Power abhors a vacuum.”
You follow in silence. Mulling it over.
William sits beside a pile of stones within a forest clearing. Well, you say forest, but the trees lack leaves and lower branches. It resembles nothing more than spikes of dead wood sticking out of the earth. You hang back as Emma approaches her sitting brother. William wordlessly extends a bottle of alcohol to his sister. The two drink in silence.
William stirs. “Phe phe.” He calls.
You intrude wordlessly.
“So, Polly, righ’,” William slurs. “She was like hellfire. Gorgeous. Smart. Bold. Did I mention gorgeous? She was drop dead gorgeous.”
Emma catches your eyes and nods vigorously.
William smiles as tears well. “And I killed her. Stabbed her in the heart.”
You flinch. Emma does not. She takes another swig as William breaks down into sobs. He’s hysterical, blubbering drunkenly. You eye the bottle – and recognize the label. An Ascended’s wine. Ethanol nano-factories mixed with flavoring and colors. William is truly drunk –
“Fuck dad.” He murmurs, soft, composing himself after some time. “He came to me—he came to meh, righ’? Put a gun down on tha’ table and said three words. ‘Emma or Pollyanna.’”
Emma doesn’t speak as William drowns himself in the bottle.
“Firss’ time I killed in cold blood.” William giggles, leaning over the bottle, over the pile of stones. “But she died. She let me kill her. I hated it. I hated it. I'm glad that bastard is dead.”
William continues to cry, blubbering incoherently. Emma ticks her head. “Go. We’ll catch the next craft back.”
You walk off into the countryside, alone. Eric, to your knowledge, lives nearby. You could go visit him – or you could put it off and do something else. Or, you could go straight back to the front.
Post by: ZBridges on March 03, 2021, 03:41:59 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 03, 2021, 05:54:45 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2021, 06:22:27 pm
A large farmhouse must belong to the property masters family. A barn is raised within the pasture, housing a small herd of red-grey insects. Silos sit empty. A few farmhands tend to various tasks, but there is no sight of Eric. However, there is a sense. It draws you to the well-maintained farmhouse. You hesitate outside the door. A few farmhands gather a safe distance away. They watch you with curiosity.
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2021, 06:42:39 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 04, 2021, 11:26:01 pm
A matron with greying golden hair opens the door. Her set scowls fades into shock. "E-ric, " she starts to stammer.
"Look ma', don't answer! I am not to be disturbed!" Eric's face is set into a tight scowl as he approaches the door and stops dead in his tracks. He boggles at you and his hand stays it's subtle journey to his ever present gas-mask. He gives a bow. "Mother Pheonix," He murmurs, crisply, "To what do I owe this honor?"
Post by: ZBridges on March 04, 2021, 11:47:48 pm
"I don't mean to intrude. If you'd prefer, Eric, we can talk another time."
Post by: King Zultan on March 05, 2021, 05:01:54 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 05, 2021, 05:01:19 pm
Post by: King Zultan on March 06, 2021, 01:36:18 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 06, 2021, 02:09:29 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 06, 2021, 04:16:11 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 06, 2021, 04:17:57 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 07, 2021, 02:48:59 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 08, 2021, 11:55:51 am
Eric shoots her a glance. "As you wish." Is all he offers to you.
Post by: ZBridges on March 08, 2021, 05:13:57 pm
Post by: King Zultan on March 09, 2021, 02:54:58 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2021, 03:10:49 am
Post by: King Zultan on March 09, 2021, 03:21:31 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2021, 03:22:16 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 09, 2021, 06:51:24 pm
“[HiNutrPotatos]. MacGruder distributed the seedstock a few weeks ago.” Eric doesn’t sound pleased.
“You sound upset.”
“It’s bad for the dirt. They take up too much nutrients.”
You frown, looking out over the fields. “Everyone is making sacrifices. Some more than others.”
“Yeah.”
“That’s why I wanted to talk to you.” You start, “I wanted to thank you for your’s. You pushed yourself hard. Harder than anyone. I’m sorry. I didn’t expect it to-“
Eric lifts a hand. “I knew what I was getting into, Mother Pheonix. No need to thank me.”
“You going to retire here? When the war is over?”
“Nah’. The Thornig Act is going to relocate us when you sign it. But I might start a farm – or maybe go into politics. It might be nice to represent the people in that system you’re planning.”
You raise a brow in surprise. “Politics?”
“Yeah.“
You nod. “I can see it.”
The two of you look at the fields in a comfortable silence. Then, almost idly, “How are you and Isela getting along?”
[16 vs. 5] “I—we have a positive, professional relationship.” Eric hesitates, stuttering. “She’s modernized our military and I support her plans for the Crusaders in our Post-War future.” He shrugs, not meeting your gaze. You notice that he isn’t meeting your gaze.
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2021, 09:59:51 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 09, 2021, 10:09:34 pm
With his admission of guilt, he scratches at his stubble and avoids your gaze, flushing.. You breath an exasperated sigh as you study the young man.
"No plans to overthrow me?" You venture, half-jesting.
"Not as far as I know." Eric looks shocked. "I mean, at worst I think she wants to limit your powers a bit? Give more privileges to those that served in the Crusaders. Modernize more."
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2021, 10:25:10 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 09, 2021, 10:41:02 pm
"Didn't tell me what?"
"That's...I probably should have expected it. That man is as wired as a fusion plant." Eric chortles, "He told me to tell you that I'm suffering from -- hell, what did he call it..." He trails off, thinking, "[Ego-Driven Realization of Ascension] through [Increased Nanite Retention]."
[10] You blink. Eric does have a lingering coil of willpower curling around him. It's weak compared to your own, but it's there. "What--what does that involve?"
"According to him, the more I fight the Plague, the stronger I can become." Eric shrugs, "He's telling me I already heal faster than [baseline] and my muscles are reinforcing themselves with..." He pauses, "Silas told me to say [Plague Based Dust]. He says it means that it's a gift from SEED. When I put on my gas-mask I feel stronger, so I guess it makes sense."
The Low Empyreal speaks more than anything else -- Avania spoke through Silas.
[19] ... but when you think about it, it does make sense. The mask alters his view of himself to the point where he subconsciously begins activating the Dust he's accumulated from his exposure to the Plague. Eric, as you have noticed through working alongside him, is a beast in combat with that mask on. He once grabbed an Insect by the face and cleanly ripped its head off. When the mask comes off, he's a quiet, intelligent son of a farmer.
Post by: ZBridges on March 09, 2021, 10:52:44 pm
Post by: King Zultan on March 10, 2021, 05:43:27 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 10, 2021, 06:05:05 pm
"Yes... a gift from SEED now that you have been deemed worthy. Are you still having trouble keeping your emotions in check?"
Post by: King Zultan on March 11, 2021, 04:25:39 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 11, 2021, 11:14:58 pm
You notice his hand curling around the gas mask. He swallows. "Sleeping is hard. But the older Crusaders know how to help."
Post by: King Zultan on March 12, 2021, 04:15:47 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 12, 2021, 07:58:48 am
Post by: ZBridges on March 12, 2021, 08:40:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on March 13, 2021, 11:40:44 pm
"I can help with that." Fixed on the field as you are, you don't notice Emma's approach. William's unconscious form is slung over her shoulder. She flashes a small smile at your start, but continues, "If you're willing to take a risk."
Post by: ZBridges on March 14, 2021, 12:46:50 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 16, 2021, 10:19:31 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 16, 2021, 11:32:52 pm
I, however, can wrap this up, if any are still interested in the final choice to decide Pheonix's future.))
Post by: Eschar on April 16, 2021, 11:51:33 pm
Post by: King Zultan on April 17, 2021, 12:40:12 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 17, 2021, 08:02:11 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2021, 07:36:55 pm
The great hovercraft, SEED’s Sacrifice, drifts towards the oncoming storm. Turbulence rocks the vessel. You pay the rocking of the vessel scant attention, instead staring at your scarred visage in the reflection of your helmet. A youth, appearing no more than twenty standard years, stares back; the scars of war apparent on her face and in her electric blue eyes. There’s a dullness there.
Giving a shake of your head, you slip the helmet on and rise to your feet. A quick check in the mirror confirms that your simple armor is tightly fit to your sinuous form. With a small adjustment of a strap, you stride from your armory. Children of SEED bow, Nobles dip their heads, and Skarin Technicians give tight salutes as you make your way to the bridge of the battlecraft. You take your seat in the center of the room. Isela sits to your right, her eyes fixed on a bank of monitors. Anxious communication officers await her commands. Emma, her face streaked with bloody tears, emerges from the depths of the ship to stand at your side. She doesn’t make eye contact.
A viewscreen, divided into multiple feeds, grabs your attention as it comes to life. Many things happen at once, but your Dust enhanced brain comprehends and understands them all at the same time.
Spoiler: Battlefield Surveillance UAV (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Eric’s Feed, Operation Stormbreak (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Murdach’s Feed, Operation Spearpoint (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: William’s Feed, Operation Parry (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Rekhyt’s Feed, Operation Riposte (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Black Nicky’s Feed, Operation Withlove (click to show/hide)
You sit back within your chair, your attention divided.
The storm stalls at the crater's edge. The battle begins.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 23, 2021, 08:49:08 pm
Spoiler: Battlefield Surveillance UAV (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Eric’s Feed, Operation Stormbreak (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Murdach’s Feed, Operation Spearpoint (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: William’s Feed, Operation Parry (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Rekhyt’s Feed, Operation Riposte (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Black Nicky’s Feed, Operation Withlove (click to show/hide)
Isela is grinning with triumph. You lift your brow at the General, but say nothing. Content to watch your enemy slaughtered in the thousand--
-- your breath catches as the UAV is snatched out of the air by something--
--and the camera pans to fix upon a horrifying sight. Your officers scream. You rise, even as Emma grabs at your arm, trying to pull you back. She manages to stall you just long enough to grab your chin and kiss you, hard. She screws her eyes shut as you pull away. She sobs as blood drips from her eyes to the floor as her willpower coils and bends into time.
You pull away, taking step, after step, after step, until you reach the airlock. You vent the pressure and the wind takes you. It sweeps you into the storm. You open the nullifying restraints as you fall. Your wings bloom out into the night sky, catching you. Your body adjusts to the altitude as you adjust your course to the center of battle.
There’s a lull in the fighting, and the storm center clears. You come to a stop, floating in the air as you appraise your foe.
Glass and rocks float haphazardly, curling randomly into distorted, screaming human faces. Silvery flesh grows like a weathered tree from a base of tentacles and twisting prisms of black. Arms and limbs flail and shift, sometimes turning into nothing but dust in the billowing winds of nanites surrounding the entity. From this grotesque base, a pale figure grows. Its flesh is alabaster, dotted with black eyes that track you through the whirling storm. Its face lacks eyes and a mouth. It's only features a twisted parody of your androgyny.
Its head rips apart at the jawline to reveal a gaping maw of black flesh, razor-sharp teeth, and dripping ichor. Dust accumulates into towering mirror-like wings with human faces grimacing from within those prismatic prisons. They scream with the sound of glass scraping glass—it echos out over the muddy battlefield.
The Plague Lord grins at you. Your destiny awaits.
Spoiler: Enemy Appraisal (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 23, 2021, 09:16:59 pm
Fusion could be an option for brute force.
Post by: King Zultan on April 24, 2021, 03:17:01 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2021, 01:29:59 pm
Post by: Devastator on April 24, 2021, 01:55:25 pm
Stay at range and use laser shots, forming glassy prisms and using the fusion reactor to power lasers.
Post by: ZBridges on April 24, 2021, 02:15:16 pm
gonna use the fusion reactor at all?+1
Stay at range and use laser shots, forming glassy prisms and using the fusion reactor to power lasers.
Post by: King Zultan on April 25, 2021, 02:25:51 am
We might as well give it a try.+1gonna use the fusion reactor at all?+1
Stay at range and use laser shots, forming glassy prisms and using the fusion reactor to power lasers.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 25, 2021, 02:04:48 pm
[init: 33 vs. 28]
[Hydrogen Gathering: 39]
[Prism Forming: 17]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 38 vs. 26]
You move first, gathering hydrogen into your arm’s reactor. You sweep it up in a tight arc, aiming down your shoulder to sight in on a glassy prism you twist up from the dust. You vent the energy into the pulse laser array with a twitch of a muscle. The beam explodes outward, hitting the prism and sending a scattershot of superheated silicon and light into your opponent. Its flesh ruptures and explodes into black ichor.
[||||||||||||||||](16/16)
[||||||||||||||||||||||..] (22/24)
[Silicon Manipulation: 17+5]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 30 vs. 39]
Its wings shatter into shards -- you try to dodge as they hurl towards you. They separate to cut off your escape.. Three shards, just as large as you, smash into your shield and shatter into bits. You snarl --
[|||||||||||||||.]
[||||||||||||||||||||||..] (22/24)
[Hydrogen Gathering: 28]
[Prism Forming: 27]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 1 vs. 26]
You fire another laser blast-- and growl in frustration when the prism explodes into a shower of sparks and harmlessly dissipated light energy. The creature’s extended willpower drifts away in the storm. You swear it laughs at you.
[|||||||||||||||.](15/16]
[||||||||||||||||||||||..] (22/24)
[Silicon Manipulation(P:C:C): 25, 35, 39]
[Willpower Interrupt: 9 vs. 33]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 11 vs. 29]
It reforms its wings as you pit your willpower against its own. The two of you strain -- but the beast wins. Having crafted massive wings of stone from the rock it levitates on, it brings the pair into you from both sides, cutting off your escape. Your shield shatters the walls, but the impact depletes a great deal of charge to protect you.
[||||||||||||....](12/16]
[||||||||||||||||||||||..] (22/24)
[Hydrogen/Chlorine Manipulation(P:C:C): 38, 27, 17]
[Willpower Interrupt: 36 vs. 26+5]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 29 vs. 12]
Controlling your willpower and briefly dominating the creature’s own, you bring hydrogen chloride into existence from the atmosphere. Ounce after ounce pours down from the sky impacting the Plague Lord with the burning acid. Everywhere the liquid touches sizzles and burns, even as it tries to escape the blistering rain. You note, with satisfaction, the hissing of Plague flesh on the battlefield below.
[19]Allied Hovercrafts, under their skillful commanders, avoid the squall of acid. They are extracting the Voidmarines from the front and pulling back to provide you air support from the Plaguecraft.
[||||||||||||....](12/16]
[||||||||||||||||||||....] (19/24)
[Regen:39]
[1d3:2]
[Attack Rollv/avoid: 34 vs. 31]
The creature’s hissing flesh begins to knit itself back together-- and, taking advantage of its distraction, you open up with a laser blast. A tentacle from its torso is sent spinning into the storm.
[||||||||||||....](12/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||...] (20/24)
J̸̨͎͇͇̦̠͍̅̇͊͊͐͗̓͐̓́̓̑̆̉̕ọ̴̳͓͎̝̖͖̻̙̳̩̍̀̉̚í̴̝͉̼̣̅̎͊̀̽̍̂͆̕͘͘̕ņ̷̢̜̳̙͍̫̦̤̺͇̮̼͔͛ ̷̢̨͕̰̹͇̮̻̣̿̈́̀̈̓̽̆̉̓̔͜w̸̠̝̱͙̳̪̤̝̠͇̲͎̝͙̉͆̇͐̀̄̓͘í̷̳̻̜̝̬̗̗̂̎͗̄̾͛́̆̃̒̽̚͜͠͝ͅt̵̢͍͇̣̭̟̞̫͎͚̪͒̂͒͑͜͠͝h̶̨̹͈̞̫̥̼̙̲͛͊̏͂̄̾̐̄̎̍͂͐͛͘̕͜͜ ̴̛̛̘̝̙̪̼̞̪̉̽͊̇̌̂̓͛͑̒̃͝u̷̘̝͖͎̺̍́͑͂͝s̶̨̨̡͔̥͈̹͔̮̓̈͑͜͝ͅ,̵̧̨̤͉̣̞̥͚̣̟͎̍͋̀̔͜ ̴̪̖̰͇̺̰͕̈̄͗͗͑̐́̄͂͝͝ͅͅͅB̸̩́̌l̵̉͝ͅö̶̡̨̨͉̫̻͕̗͔͔̜̈̈́̆̋̄͂̂̑ǫ̵̨͕͍̜̦̙̲͐̈́̈͂̊̈́̍͝d̷̺͔̬̯̫͔̳̀̏̐s̸̨̢̫͓̪͈̗̱͚̝͇̟̩̐͜ţ̴̢͉͉̠̱͓̟̥̝̹̏̔͑̍͂̐̈͒̑̄̈́͜͝ā̴̼̙̰̆̾̂į̷͎̰̲̳̘̟̖͕͓̅̑̏͌͛̊͝ͅǹ̴̡̲̣͇̞͈̼̪͉̰̱̝͎͐̏̊̔͋̅͜ḛ̸̡̡͇̭͉̼͍̹̭͕̗̺̙̓͗̐̿̇͂̓͛̃͆̕͜͝͝͝d̶̠͖̮͉̯͐͗̏̒̏͘͝͝ͅ ̶̝͈̪̙̘̞̺̗̂̾̂̽̓͋̕A̶̧̢͍̯̼̝͌͑͗̎̀͊̍͋̅̇͐n̵̹̠̘̻͈͓̰͖̦̤̪͈̒̀̎̋̒̈̄͐̂͘͝ģ̸̢̨͖̰͎͋͛ȩ̵̡͖͕͛̈́̐̌̀l̴̹̜̫̪͔͕̞͕̣̣̲̤̬͙̊̿̎̐.̵̡̤̟̱̻͒̒͆̀̏̍͆͌̏͜͝ It hisses within your mind as you appraise one another once more.
F̴͚͖͚͈̾́̈́̋̉̋͗̾̈́̑̚͘͝͝͝ŕ̴̨̢̛̛̮͈̜͍͔͚̥̱̱̱̺̱̺̐͆́́̀ȩ̷̦̜͎͎̲͙͔̃̎̌͋̏̂̂̕̕̚͠e̵̡͔̥̹̽͝͠ ̶̢̨̧͉̮̪̲̰̆̈ỳ̵̫̦͍͕̭̺̩́͒̊̓̚ͅo̴̦͑̀̔̈́͌͆̕ǔ̶̪̘̻̫͔̒́̍̽̍r̴̛̼̹̰͕̞̟̱̜͎͚͎͍̋͆̊̋͒͆̓͆̌̑͘͘ͅ ̴̨̲͕̤̜͚͙̻͆̍͗͒̂̃̕̚ͅh̶̢̢̭̫̻̣̗̺̪̮̤͐͒͊̃̔̎̅͛̈́̑͠͝ű̶̥̞̫͖͎̃͒̆͌̂͋̇̏̔̅͋͐̏͗n̴̢͖̞̓̅̆͘͜g̷̢̤̲̀̇̎͆̾̚̕è̵̡͔̼͎͙̦̖̲̮̺̪̭͐̿̿̓̚͠ͅr̶̤̪̻̹̱͉̲͍̝̰̖͕̗̹̅͋̒̚.̸̧̛̯͇̲̼̬͍͉̻̳͙̦̫͈́͂̇̄̉̏̎̋̎́͝͠ ̸̢̨̻̹̝͉̺̭̹̝̻̙̙̻̈́̈̕Ḑ̸̛͙͈͉̘͚̥̆̓̈̓ȅ̶̢̛̯̜̺̫̪̳̤͚̗̟̋̚̕͜͝͝s̶̢͓̻̝̫̻̲͈͚̪͍̝̼̪̈́̒̂̐̒̅̇̑͛͝͝t̶̡̟̮̖̤̥̠̱͍̭͉͙͍͊r̸͔̪̝̳̤̋̓̎́̾̇̒͊̄̈́̒̆͠ǫ̶̤͓̘̻̺̜̠̝̱̤͑́͋̀̀͜͜y̶̢̢̛̝̬͚͎̩̘̫̳̮͈̑͌̂́͌̋̒̀̅̈́͝ ̶̯̖̦̝̱̎̇t̷̯̰̞̱̜͖̪̥̠͋͗̇̒͒ḩ̵͉͖̟̮͇̣̝̪̱͔͈̜̳͖̏̀̽e̶̡̛̦͓͔͐̋͑́̅͜s̴̨͚̙̤͚͓͔͆͗͛̾͋̚͜ę̷̢̥̺̘̩̣̟̀̾̌̎ͅ ̸̡̱̣͔̠̲̞̠̳̤͈͇͊̅͑̾̓͛͂̿̌̉͌̌̀̈́͠s̷̡̨̛̛̲̤͖̤̣̳̼̤͖̙͚̔̍̾͐͜͠͠e̶̡̹̳̮͐̽̃̆̈́͒̃͠n̸̡̼͇̖͚̞̠͓͍̗̞̾̃̿́̓̾̿̎͐͋͑͒̕͝ͅt̴̬͉̱̄̀͑̌̾̍͗̂͛͜͠i̸̢̙̯͈̝͈̱̙͖͉͛͂̂͒̈́̒͌͜ȅ̷̥̪́̎̽̍͛͌͝n̸̨͎̠͉̦̼̈́̈͋͋̈̇͐͘ţ̶̥̥̘͇̟̞̝͇̘̜̮͐̀͊̈́̔̇̅͆̍̇͋͂̕̚͝s̸͖͉͂̄̄̆.̷̛̛̋̃̿̅͛̋̀̐̄͆̍͘͠ͅ
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 25, 2021, 03:06:27 pm
Create spears of iron, coated in acid, and send them flying at the Plague Lord using energy manipulation with as much momentum as possible.
Post by: Eschar on April 25, 2021, 05:05:36 pm
If possible, bend nearby plague nanites to our will.
Post by: King Zultan on April 26, 2021, 06:11:02 am
Should we try to gas it, or does that seem like a waste of time?
Post by: ZBridges on April 26, 2021, 10:12:04 pm
Post by: King Zultan on April 27, 2021, 12:50:56 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 27, 2021, 01:32:11 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 29, 2021, 11:00:47 pm
̷̢̥̰͖̳̽̒̍̌̾̏̓̒͘
̸̨͔̣͚̙̓̅̔̈̅̀͛͗̑͑̀̀͘W̸͚͖̙̙̄̌̂͋͐͆͊̇̆͋̕͠ë̵͓̦͂̾̂̕ ̶̱̥̏w̴̡̗̦̼̟̩̺̝̞̤͇̋͋̄̀̅̈́̔̾͜ͅa̵͚̣̪̜̪̘̦̮̜͂̑͋̈̏̕ͅn̴̛̫͉̝͇̹̿̀̓͑͗̈́̽t̶͕̗̹͚̫̬͉͍̥͙͋ͅ ̶̰̻̠̤̙̻͗̏̍͆͠͝͝y̵͉͙͖͓̳̥̜̗͎̆̉͛̈́̈́̋̉͋̃̌͂̾̚̕͝ͅǫ̷̦̦͚̱͕̹́̌͒̓͂͂́́̍̐͐́̋̚̚û̷̙͒͌̓̂́͐̽̃̊̊̚͝ ̴̨̭̯̳̼͔̫̠̩͍̗̝́̄͊̃̕͜ͅd̶̞̲̹̎̒̀̔́̊͒̐͘e̵̱̗͉̐̆͒̑̾͑́̊̾̇͗̆̇̚͠a̷̟͉͑͛̔̈́̅͆̓͒̎̇̆͋̕͘ḓ̸̢̛̻̻̟̞̐̒͑̒̕ ̸̯̻̥̙̥̱̘̦̤͌͂͐̇̓̈́̾̐̀̌̃́͑̚͘m̸̗͌͑́̒̉̍́̈́͠ȍ̶̢̡̨͕̜̩͚̺̾̀̑͝ŗ̴̡̹̜̖̜̤̞̺̙̦͈͍̤́̓̎̈́́͑̀͜e̴̢̢̹̼͓̩̝̯͙̒͊̊̈́͐͘͘͜ ̴̛̼͎͒͋̅̋͛̒͌̋̈̾̽̚͝t̶͊̌̾̆ͅȟ̴̢̞͇̟̱̺̻̪̯̦͐͛̒͋̄̌̔̈̂́͛̌͛̕ẳ̷̛̲͙̳̭̩̰̻̻̺͇̜̫͋̀̉̾̈ņ̸͙͛͝ ̴̡̪͔̿̇̅̋̒͑́̈̏̌̌́̀á̶̡̧̞͕̳̱̺͓͍̉̔̐͑n̷̨̺̮͚͉͉̬̗̙͙̬̈͑̊͑̎̎̀̿͝y̴͈̼͙̻̩̺̎̈́t̸̪͇̥͍̎̾ḧ̵̬̙͔̟̪̦̺̔̽̆͋ỉ̷̛̟̹͔̝͉̫̝͑͗͝ņ̸̣̉̄͗̅̐͒̃́̉̽̓̐̚̕͝ģ̵͇̳̻͍̺͗̔̈̀̾́̏̍͝.̸̢̢̞̱͓̠̝̰̰̠̭̥̗̟̉̿̀̒̈̀̉
̷̨̛̭̠͇̗͍̘̬͇̑̏̊̌̓̎̔̔̕
̵̭̞̗̞́͑̈́̕͝H̷̢̟̮̥̰̝̮̟̺̫̩̳̲̔̈́͜͠ứ̸̡̛̥̭͚͈͈̘̗̬͖̹̮̖̖̋͊͊͋̿̂́̚͝͠m̵̧̨̬͙̠̘̳̯̖͈̳̲̊̏̌̾̆̄̾́͊̚͘͜ḁ̸̢̥̙̫̘̺͓̮́̾͝n̴͚̼͉̠̬̗̘̠͎̳̪̮͚̈́̂͒̀̕͘͝ͅ ̸̛͍͛͂̀̿̀͋̈́̕͝s̵̛̞͍͒͌̌̃̆͌́̕͘̚͝͠c̵̢̜̤̥̯̥̦͉̙̟̩̳̳̽̓̍͒̎̇̆͋̈́̌̀͌͜͠͝͝ų̴̢̬͎̬̣̝̬̠̙͓̦͊͂̔̑̎̄̈́̀m̵̨̘̜̼̱͓̻̦̻̪̪̰̤͖͛̎͐̾̅̄̅̐̎̂̋̕̚͜.̸̧̨̗̺̤̟́͛̀̐͂̑͂͛͂̓̕
[Init:17 vs. 31]
[Overpowpres:35 vs. 32]
An explosion of pain strikes you from within your skull. Strange screams from vocal chords burned ages ago. Ozone and stinking ichor assault your nose. You struggle to keep you wits about you about -- cities with foreign architecture dissolve before your eyes. Lights fade from alien worlds, snuffed out by an overwhelming tide of darkness--
--the Plague Lord closes the distance. Screams fill your radio headset--
[||||||||||||....](12/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||...] (20/24)
[Material Gather:9-5 vs. 30]
--dropping to the ground to manipulate the iron therein -- your concentration falters as the Plague Lord grabs at you with razor-tipped tentacles. Your shield hisses as a swarm of appendages grab and rip at your protection. It forces you up and back into the sky, away from the earth and its plentiful supply of iron.
[|||||||||||.....](11/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||...] (20/24)
[Silicon Manipulation:21]
[Attack Rollv/avoid:5-5 vs. 25]
--particles of microfine glass send patterns of light flashing all around you as you rise into the air-- then a storm of them strike. You're surrounded by a swirling, hissing cloud of glass. The hard light shield holds as you struggle to pull yourself away from the creature--more and more form as the cloud presses in.
[|||||||||.......](9/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||...] (20/24)
...The echoes of burned worlds begin to die down...
[Plague Control:13-2 vs. 35]
[Attack Rollv/avoid:10 vs. 25]
[Information: 40]
As you attempt to reach out with your willpower and take control of the Plague Nanites -- to no real avail. It only draws your attention away from evading the enveloping cloud of silicon that rips at your shield. Another crack forms as the generator struggles to keep up with the pressure exerted on it. The machinery feels hot on your chest. The AI is working overtime, and the reactors are struggling to keep up with the power output. But the technology holds. For now.
An infodump drops into your mind -- feedback from the strained connection. You divert your attention--
Quote
Only one string catches your attention.
...
8700905132
4902161752
2825266928
5407277568
0296786454
7142659770
1929762392
0895015657
1047863649
2723422934
...
PRIMARY_OPERATION:ENERGY GATHERING
...
[||||||||........](8/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||...] (20/24)
[Regenv/Interrupt:32 vs. 20]
[1d3:3]
The creature gathers its will about itself. You attempt to interrupt it-- but it's too late. The dust storm drops, your shield falling just in time for you to witness many of the laser blasts you managed to land on the Plague Lord heal. A rictus grin splits the monster's face -- and it rapidly closes the distance between the two of you.
[||||||||........](8/16]
[|||||||||||||||||||||||.] (23/24)
R̶̦̪̮̙̹̬̥̪͓̮̬̱̱̓̾͊͑͜u̵̧̟̗̖̺̼̙̲̼̩̼͙̗̮̖͐́́̐̄͊̍͛͠n̷̞̺̻͖̮̓͛̉̂̇͋̚͘͝ͅ,̴̧̡̫̯̗̫̩̣̩̦̦̗͈̞̓̈͋̋͘͜ ̷̧̰̙̩͖̙̞͇̦͙̟̾̄́͒͐̂́̒̚H̶̗͕̬̱̭̖͎̭̰̯̑̈͗̉̕̚͜ǘ̵͓͍͉̠̭̜̫̥̰͎̈́̇͋͊̓̊̐̿̿͝ͅm̷̡̮͕͉̱̫̻̤̯̮̗̝̐̔̓́̇̅̌̐̀̈̊͑́̏͜͝ͅą̵̫̏̕n̴͍͍͇͖̮̹̱̩̙̬̉͛̓̓͌̀̒̏̈́̚ͅ.̸̞͙̀̔̔̀̀̓̀̊̋̕͝
Your radio crackles and hisses as multiple voices flood your channels.
"[You daft bitch--]"
"[--Phe-Phe, knock it--]"
"[--We can't help--]"
"[--something entering from orbit--]"
"[DOWN. BRING IT DOWN.]"
Spoiler: Status (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Inventory (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Powers and Skills (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2021, 02:36:39 am
Post by: King Zultan on April 30, 2021, 04:52:08 am
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2021, 02:29:46 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2021, 06:49:42 pm
You cut the process in your wings that give you lift--and drop like a rock, right through the storm and into the crater below. The Plague Lord follows you into the depths of the earth. It roars in savage fury as you escape with easy grace.
Just before you hit the ground, you switch them back on, alighting in the rubble and ruin of the once great Holy City. The Plague Lord drops to the ground in front of you--
Its many mouths split into a grin.
But so do your's.
"I surrender." You state, lifting your hands. "Completely and utterly."
W̴̢̢̤͙̦͍̬̙̲̦͋̆̃͊͂͆͗́̏̑̂͘͝h̸̨̲̦̮̣̦̗̣̮͛̈́̔-̵͚͕͈̩̼͎̱͓̥̩̃̽̽̎̈́̈́̎̈́̾̀ẁ̷̮̗̌̽̋̒̇̊h̶̨̤̣͍͈̤̗͙̿̃͋̑͋̓̿̆̾̉̒͐̎ǡ̴̡̠̣̹̪͉͓̪̈͐͌̓͊t̷̨̡̧̨̝̠͓̼̼̗̥̖̺̼̜̓͆?̸̢͎͈̯̘̙͍̘͕͙̮͍͙̤͒͌͂̽͂̇̒̎̈̚̕͘͝
"I can't win. Before we join-- I have questions."
Oh gods, oh gods this is stupid stup--
[40]W̸̺͙͓̼̪̟̍h̵͕̖̭̱̭͓͋͛̈́̌̇̑́͗͌̕ą̷̪̼̦̙̭͍̭̯̯͈̤̥̦̃̓͆̉́̓͗̍̍̓́̅t̷̩͔̲̠̟̽̓͜ͅ ̷̙̜̜͍̣̖͒̄̉͂͐͆̈́̇̆̀̇͗̌͌͜q̷̛̯̬̮̞̠͑́̊͂̄͗͑̋͆̐̚͜u̶͍̳͇̖̭̱̖͗̄̌̇̀̋̇̄̎̇̉ḝ̷̻͈̯͓͎̤͔͎̘̎̓͊́̓̌̀̀͘͝s̷̛̬͔̦̏̏͌̾̑͗̃̒̓̆̕̚͘͝t̶̡̨̙̰͚̻͔̲͑̓i̴̧̨̧̘̯̰͈̜͚̤͇͚̣̓̾̀͗̊̎̎̕͜͝ǫ̵̡̱̗̻̣͉͔̠̈̿̃ͅn̴̮̘̻̠̖̗͈͒̅͒̚ş̴̨͍̯̹͚͉̳̭͙͕̣̂͋?̵̧̨͔̫̹̿́̋͑͜
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2021, 07:03:16 pm
"What was the Great Disconnect?"
We must stall until the trap can be activated.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2021, 07:41:31 pm
Post by: ZBridges on April 30, 2021, 07:49:57 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2021, 08:01:25 pm
"We are your ancestral sin. We are the fire that burned the forest. The embers blazing again to devour our maker's children."
Post by: Devastator on April 30, 2021, 08:48:48 pm
(Oh, and we might want to see if we can regenerate that shield while we're waiting.)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on April 30, 2021, 09:06:13 pm
Post by: King Zultan on May 01, 2021, 02:45:44 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 04:01:25 am
Quote from: Level 3 Hardlight Emitter Shields
A high-powered kinetic charging battery system provides the immense energies needed to emit a hardlight shield. This battery is charged by the kinetic motion of the user, and the shield is projected when the AI within detects anything on a hostile trajectory towards the operator. The battery is high-yield, allowing for ten interceptions on a full charge. A reliable defense platform used the Empyre over by those in dangerous lines of work.
Weight: [20 lbs or 9.07185kg]
Diamet: [8.5 in or 215.9 mm]
Empyreal Tech Level: 3
Battery: Kinetic Battery System: 10 Charges
Manufacturer: Hyperion Arms LTD.
Post by: King Zultan on May 01, 2021, 04:03:56 am
Post by: Devastator on May 01, 2021, 05:17:33 am
..annyway, here's the plans.
First up: There are two new entries on the skill list. "Dreams of Silicon" and "Dreams of Iron." Might wish to use those or not.
In general, I've got tactics for three different sorts of engagements.
Spoiler: Plan A, or "Screw Destiny" (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Plan B. (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Plan C. (click to show/hide)
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 01:23:18 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 01, 2021, 01:34:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 01:35:38 pm
Post by: Devastator on May 01, 2021, 02:11:52 pm
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 02:22:01 pm
Post by: Devastator on May 01, 2021, 02:37:43 pm
(Without a spaceship, B is basically consuming mechanical assets until we're powerful enough to wipe out that interloper.)
(Overall, my vote is for A, but I think Phoebe could quite well die in A. I suspect that if she were to commit to becoming a mechavore in B or a solid energy being in C, winning would be much easier. in A she might win, but it seems more doubtful.)
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 03:01:21 pm
Post by: Devastator on May 01, 2021, 03:09:48 pm
Still, I can see C, but I've always been much more interested in doing things wrong. We're supposed to go beyond the world, turn our backs on everything we knew, and give up our life.. who is to say that the right way to save the planet is to lose it even if we win?)
Post by: ZBridges on May 01, 2021, 03:18:21 pm
Post by: Devastator on May 01, 2021, 03:34:09 pm
In general, C seems too obvious and straightforward to appeal to me, but I think that like most military plans, it's best to take a plan of battle and back it to the hilt.. you might also plan for the success or failure of the plan, but you should put your all into the one you do execute. So if C is decided on, that's the one we should go for.
..although we can probably heat ourselves up a lot even in A, even if we aren't trying to condense ourselves into basically an energy creature. Being a few thousand degrees hot might soften some of the blows and give us somewhat of an edge in nanite-on-nanite combat.
Post by: King Zultan on May 02, 2021, 05:05:13 am
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 02, 2021, 08:13:21 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 03, 2021, 01:32:02 am
Post by: ZBridges on May 03, 2021, 02:01:52 am
Post by: Eschar on May 03, 2021, 02:11:47 am
I'm exhausted. I think at this point we've done all we can as Ancestors.
Yes. Our purpose here will either be fulfilled, or irrelevant. Time for your last apotheosis, Phoebe Gainer, Goddess of War and this planet.
Plan A, especially the kinetic-gravitational-bomb components. C as last resort - but begin the heating process now if possible.
Post by: Devastator on May 03, 2021, 02:40:29 am
I gave those suggestions because I didn't want to see Phoebe die without putting up what I saw as a proper fight.)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 03, 2021, 08:16:02 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2021, 10:10:20 pm
William drops down beside you, resplendent in demonic armor. He crouches low, an Inferno Shotgun in one hand and a cutter hilt in the other. A laugh echoes down the canyon from his curled lips. His helmet seals shut around his head, replacing his smiling face with the twisted, savage grin of a demon. His augmented muscles flex within the armor.
Another man drops down beside you. Eric is a hulking beast now. Spikes of silvery metal rip through his coat, running down his back. Eyes of grey gleam with a malignant light through his gasmask. Every muscle in his body bulges unnaturally against his clothing. A chunk of steel barricade is crudely strapped to his arm-- and a savage, steel axe gleams in the other. Black ichor covers him. It drips from his tattered greatcoat to the soaked earth below.
You hear a click from behind you, and glance back to see Murdach levelling a massive las-rifle at the abomination. The man menaces in his eight foot powered armor. Its shiny black carapace marked with scratch and scar, while covered in the blood of abomination. A grenade launcher fixes on the Plague Lord’s every move. There is no expression that you can see from the ancient Pirate, but you know his resolve hasn’t faltered.
Above you, a light catches your eyes. Two wings of cold, blue fire spread from Emma’s back as she stops to levitate above you. She brushes some hair from her face with a gloved hand. ‘For Polly’ gleams in one of her hands, and a nimbus of hydrogen fire forms in the other as it drops from her face. You catch her gaze and give her a smile. She returns it, soft. “Cephie sends her relativistic regards.”
You raise your brow in confusion.
The Plague Lord stares at its new foes. Perhaps in shock, in confusion, or perhaps in savage joy at the sheer amount of potential meals that have come to surround it. Its many lips split, and it gives a roar of rage-- William and Eric move in quickly--
Emma ticks her head upward. You lift up on your wings, following her out of the Plague Lord’s range. Las-gun lights flash from the canyon below as the battle is joined. William, Eric, and Murdach distract the Plague Lord while you and Emma confer in the sky above the battleground. You watch as Eric rends flesh, as William carves organs, and Murdach sends round after round of explosive ammunition into the fray.
“I need pi--”
Emma draws close, holding energy capsules in her hand. You press them into your mouth wordlessly, swallowing them down. Her thin fingers dance along your shield’s buckle as she undoes it and replaces it with her own. Strapping the worn, weak shield to her chest, she gives you a wane smile. Her body presses against your own, and your eyes meet.
“I love you, Phoebe.” She whispers. “Thank you. For everything.”
You bite back the laugh and smile at her instead. “I love you too--”
“And I’m sorry.”
You blink. “For what?”
Emma doesn’t have to speak. A tear drips down her cheek, and she leans in, planting a kiss upon your lips. Then, in a flash of light, she’s gone to join the battle raging beneath. Giving you time to meditate on the battle ahead.
[37][25][26]
You bring forth manipulators from the carnage below, crafting them into spiked, rusted rings of iron, floating crystals of silicon and lashing wings of hydrogen plasma. With a switch of processes, you keep them sustained with a twitch of your willpower. Next you gather hydrogen, and incase it spheres of thin silicon. When your orbit fills with these packets, you turn your attention to your ‘arm’.
[33]
Pumping energy into the Plague material you bonded with seems like a bad idea, but it comes naturally, despite your trepidation. Your ‘fingers’ elongate, and your arm convulses. Pain shoots through your shoulder as your arm twists itself into a bladed configuration. You pump hydrogen into the reactor, using the outputted energy to form a blade of ionized radiation and superheated metals.
[40]
You follow this by tweaking your internal chemistry to pump your system full of adrenaline, steroids, and neurochemicals. You trim unnecessary processes, burn old memories, and ‘overclock’ your system. Blood drips from your nose, but the world sharpens. Colors brighten, senses sharpen, and the beating of your heart drums in your ears. You swallow, thirsty for the first time in your short life.
[3]
You begin to consider the possibilities before you. The lines of attack, how the Plague Lord will react to each of your moves--
An explosion from below catches your attention.
“I’m pulling Eric out-- Murdach is dead.” William’s voice is tinny in your ear. His voice is edged in pain--
A shot of light, Emma, flies pass. A shard of silicon embedded in her chest and her dark blood trailing behind her. Droplets of the crimson liquid dance in the starlight. You catch her look-- pain, fear, and helplessness all playing across her fair features when she meets your gaze. She’s pale from blood loss. The shield is a smoking ruin on her chest and the gleaming gun is nowhere to be seen.
You react without thinking. You lift your glimmering arm in an arc and swing one of the compressed hydrogen packets around on an intercept course. A directed bolt of energy ignites the hydrogen and explodes just as the Plague Lord approaches. It screams in pain and Emma makes her escape.
[35 vs. 24]
The approaching Plague Lord doesn’t have time to dodge as thermal energy and shards of silicon wash over it. Flesh blackens and chars with the sudden heat. Black ichor splatters as it tries to twist away from the explosion. Malignant in its cancerous hunger, it turns its attention back to you. Its body is marked with a multitude of wounds from the ferocious battle that your allies waged.
[|||||||||||||||](16/16]
[|||||||||||||||.........] (15/24)
[24 vs. 21]
[21]
You dodge the silicon shards before they can impact your shield. Asserting your willpower to push kinetic energy into the projectiles and blast them into the upper atmosphere. The entity continues to fire upon you, and you dance around the battlefield--
[|||||||||||||||](16/16]
[|||||||||||||||.........] (15/24)
[29 vs 34]
[19]
You swing one of the hydrogen packets around in a sharp arc -- it dodges away, but you fire a blast of energy at it anyway. The blast radius catches it with a glancing blow. You try to form the exploding hydrogen and silicon into silane, but it realizes your ruse, and winches away the silicon before you can manipulate it.
[|||||||||||||||](16/16]
[||||||||||||||..........] (14/24)
[3 vs 27]
[14 vs. 14]
A silicon shard glances off your shield, and you hiss out a breath of annoyance-- the next few shoot off into the atmosphere as you dodge out of range. You lift your arm, firing off a laser burst and having a silicon shard smash into your shield for your troubles.
[||||||||||||||.](15/16]
[|||||||||||||...........] (13/24)
[3 vs. 29]
[11 vs. 28]
--the Plague Lord moves before you can react. The hydrogen packet breaks apart before you can ignite it-- and glass dust billows against your shield as it retaliates in kind--
[|||||||||||||..](14/16]
[|||||||||||||...........] (13/24)
[1 vs. 36]
You grin with savage triumph as you maneuver yourself into range of the silicon you sent flying into the atmosphere. You grip the red-hot slag as it comes down -- and your grip slips as the Plague Lord seizes hold of the silicon. You try to dodge, but the metal hits your shield with savage force. You have no time to adjust your propulsion and the newtonian reaction sends you spiralling towards the ground.
[||||||||||....](11/16]
[|||||||||||||...........] (13/24)
[20 vs. 36]
[40]
You curl the ring of iron into a forward facing shield as you fall. Silicon slams against iron again and again, the weaker metal shattering against the stronger. You block the minute, shattered remains while simultaneously defending against the man-sized chunks it flings your way. You grit your teeth, trying to rise, but the Plague Lord doesn’t relent. You block each strike of silicon the best you can, but each blow is a contest of strength. A contest you lose. However, due to your manipulation of iron, you retain your shields.
[||||||||||....](11/16]
[|||||||||||||...........] (13/24)
[40 vs. 30]
You shut your eyes, your willpower twitching out to block oncoming blows whenever you sense a shard of silicon approaching. Reaching into the clouds above, into the heart of the swirling storm clouds, you agitate the water and dust molecules and adjust the electromagnetic field surrounding you. Lightning jumps forth from the storm front, striking the Plague Lord with explosive force. Flesh sears, and its willpower reacts erratically-- it falls to the ground below as its silicon manipulation fails.
[||||||||||....](11/16]
[||||||||||..............] (10/24)
[30 vs. 29]
[36][30][3]
You seize the advantage your stunned foe provides. You swing the remaining packages of hydrogen around and, at once, ignite them all with a blast of your ionized appendage. The explosion blasts you back, damaging your shield, but blowing away chunks of the Plague Lord’s flesh.
[|||||||||.....](10/16]
[|||||||.................] (7/24)
[10 vs. 25]
The Plague Lord screeches its static call, screaming in pain and agony -- ...screaming with the voice of a thousand dead worlds.. . You stagger, blinking back the pain that bursts within your skull. You struggle as visions of great cities overwhelmed with abominations devour your mind. Strangely shaped humanoids scream in pain and fear as ...death rains from the stars….
[|||||||||.....](10/16]
[|||||||.................] (7/24)
[28-5 vs. 15]
[16]
You shake yourself back to sense, bringing down weak bolts of lightning to harry your wounded, screaming foe. Rivulets of ichor pour away from the gouges rent by your storm. The scent of charred flesh and ozone burns your nose, amplified by the hallucinations the Plague Lord’s mental assault brings on.
[|||||||||.....](10/16]
[||||||..................] (6/24)
[16-5 vs. 27]
Your vision swims as blood pounds like war drums within your ears. The Plague Lord takes advantage of your lack of focus to hurl spikes of distracting silicon and close the distance between the two of you --
[|||||||||.....](9/16]
[||||||..................] (6/24)
[14-5 vs. 50]
[13-5 vs. 35]
It strikes at you with tentacles of razor and electricity, batting at your shield. You dodge out of the way-- and directly into the path of several shards of silicon. Your shield crackles and breaks in a flash of light. A burst of energy flings you back, but you regain control with the minute adjustments your skill in flight allow.
[||||||........](6/16]
[||||||..................] (6/24)
You halt your fall and stare into the hungering maw of the Plague Lord. Its false form has fallen away to nothing but pale skin hanging limply between twisting masses of black flesh. It growls a low rumbling sound in the pit of its many throats. You grimace, and put distance between you and the beast. It follows. You have time, time to think--
Screwing your eyes shut, you try to shed your skin as you fly away. Your war form, while powerful, is a disturbing experience, and one that requires perfect serenity. Identity, morality, emotion, feeling, pleasure, relationships, all of them must be stripped away until there’s nothing left but the drive to win, the drive to survive, the drive to struggle. Sometimes you wonder if what you manifest is your true humanity. That drive that drove your race to conquer its homeworld, to conquer physics, the galaxy, and even time itself.
--Bullshit.
You twist suddenly--trying to drive your augmented fist into the creature’s core. The Gs of your sudden deceleration pull at your mortal flesh. It hisses, ripping at your armored form with its razor tipped tentacles. It finds purchase, shredding at your ablative plate. You ignore it and activate the fusion laser within your arm. Chunks of Plague Lord fly away from the beam of ionized plasma. It screams in pain--
No. No. No. No! I will not fight as a god-- I die as a human. I die as a mortal!
--you blow away chunk after chunk of Plague Flesh as it ineffectively scrambles at your frame. Its blows start to weaken as you slam your ionized, flaming fist into its form with savage fury. Pieces break away. Pieces char. The monster screams--
I. Am. Free. Godsdamnit, and I will die that way!
It rips through your armor, but doesn’t draw blood. You, on the other hand, draw plenty of the beast’s foul ichor. Its cries of pain turn into whimpers as it begins to fall to the ground below. You do not relent in your assault. You follow it down, screaming in rage. You continue to pummel it even as the ground shakes beneath your feet, even as an explosion lights up the distant western horizon.
You slam your fiery fist into its unmoving form again and again. Silicon sprouts from the ground around you, turning into floating orbs of glassy metal. Iron sprouts and rusts. Chlorine condenses into a fog of choking death, and still you beat the Plague Lord until nothing remains but a smoking carcass of pulverized flesh and bone.
You heave deep breaths and gather yourself. Then, with an adjustment of the force calculations of your wings, you rise to the skies and return to the battlefield. The war wages on, but your part is done. The Plague Lord is neutralized--
“Load the Antimatter shells.”
On a cliff side far from the Great Crater you watch as annihilation rains down on the Plague Army. A burning flame, a holy flame, washes over the battlefield. Great cylinders of ash and dust rise from the earth to scourge the infestation that haunted your planet and nearly drove you and your people to ruin. Hundreds of thousands died to stop the storm in its tracks. And, thanks to you, they succeeded. They lay the metaphorical laurel of victory at your feet.
But with this battle, you have gained a victory greater than anything.
Phoebe won. The mortal girl, stranded on this planet less than three years ago conquered herself. She turned away from divinity and dark temptation. She spat in the face of gods and kings and remained mortal. The light of antimatter devastation bathes her in its baptismal light. She’s free. No longer chained by the constructs of her birth, of her rage, of her ambition. She surrenders only to the path of contentment.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2021, 10:11:31 pm
Phoebe wrenches a plate of ablative alloy into place. Her arm hisses as hydrogen fires heat a rivet of complex composite alloy. With a hiss, it seals into place, and she tightens the material before it can slip. With a grimy hand, she wipes at her sweating brow and grins at her handicraft. Her personal vessel, The Phoenix still looks like a loose collection of parts and hoses, but the passing of time is turning the collection into a beautiful vessel.
An attendant rushes in from another part of the dry-docked vessel, clutching a data scroll in hand. “Lady Protector, Madam Thornton is requesting your presence at the autumn ball in--”
“Tell her to get Cephie--” Phoebe starts.
“She says they’re serving Skarinite cuisine.” The young woman interrupts.
“--I will attend. I suppose.” Phoebe sighs, and moves to leverage the other end of the ablative plate into place. “Don’t worry about sending her a message. I’ll tell her at home, tonight.”
“And you have a visitor as well.”
“If it’s Mister Eric, tell hi--”
“He says his name is Magnus.”
The ablative plate slams into the hangar floor.
The looming crisis pushes you back into the state of your ‘childhood’. You freely open your mind to the Ancestors. For a decade you only sought their council on matters of great importance, and you tried to rule as you were taught. You purged the Plague from the world. You established a ...working representative democracy. You abolished debt-slavery. You established schools and training programs. And most importantly, you prepared for war with Magnus.
Under Minister Geoyde your economy boomed. WIth the Plague gone, McCreary’s Rest flourished. Technology spread with the removal of limitations. New corporations formed and spearheaded growth in fields previously forbidden. Economic information from thousands of planets flooded in, and, after a time, so did a Planetary Development company.
They provided your world with a space elevator-- for a cut of future profits. Ships were launched, asteroid mining began in earnest with the help of subcontractors, and Mcreary’s planet grew wealthy rapidly.
With the majority of your world still geared toward war, it was difficult to turn it to peace. Many of the current senators are of military stock, and it shows. The industry of your planet churns out weapons of war and conquering armies with alarming frequency. It was only a matter of time before other planets fell under the sway of McCreary’s Rest. Your economy grew even stronger with the tributes that flowed in from your newfound ‘colonies’.
Your armies are...terrifying. Half Plagued Zealots screaming your name as they throw themselves into battle. Thornton Warmachines, Loomed for war and devotion. Destructive Space Pirates, savage Outlander Warlords, and lockstep Crusaders. All of them spread your empire into the neighboring stars under the cruel efficiency of William and subtle calculations of Isela.
You tried to slow the wars, but made no progress. You were slowly ousted by legal coups until the People’s Senate, the Noble Chamber, and the Elective Council had supplanted you entirely. They kept your promises and honored your treaties, so you, without much fanfare, retired to an ornate palace. Then, when the Spaceport was complete, to one of the Hangars assigned to you. You formed a small corporation and began to manufacture your own spacefaring vessel -- having nothing left to do and a firm distaste for politics.
The Noble sits comfortably at your desk within the hangar. He turns his head to flash you a wry smile, and shock burns through you. Your heart pounds in your chest, drowning out cognizant thought with the drums of war. A spike of adrenaline, once easily managed with an adjustment of your internal chemistry runs amok with your body. He lifts a hand, and you tense.
“A space elevator and dock? Already? Bravo!”
You blink--
“I’m sorry, was that a compliment?” You question, confused.
“Yes! This savage world is developing splendidly. I think, in a hundred years, it will be completely developed.” He rises, and you flinch again, but he only strides to the window to cast his gaze to the developing planet below. “You know, the [Empyror/ess] was disappointed. It was expected that you would bring about an Ascension similar to his own.”
“I decided against it.”
“I see. For once the hammer broke before the ingot did. And what are your plans now?”
“I leave with whoever wants to come. Explore. Fight. Relax. Whatever. Where’s your flee--”
“Cephiela included?”
“If she wants to.” You pause, “And if she has release to do so.”
“Consider it done.” Magnus shrugs. “I want to broker a deal, daughter of Sol, before I return to the Core.”
“And what would that be?”
“You died, here, on this planet, and, when I arrived, I placed it under my protection after being moved to tears by your amazing story of heroism and self-sacrifice.” He wipes away a tear, “Your people kept myths about you, but I confirmed that you were indeed dead. No pirate or vassal empire is stupid enough to oppose me-- you get everything you want. Freedom. No bounty on your head and your planet is safe and sound.”
“What do you get?”
“You die.”
Magnus pauses as your hand strays to the collar around your neck--
“Metaphorically, of course. You don’t interfere in any Empyreal politics. You start no great wars, no grand revolutions, no all-encompassing crusades. You fade away into myth as you explore the rim and never return to the Empyre proper.”
“That’s...that’s all?” You tilt your head, keeping your gaze fixed upon the Noble. “You have a deal, Magnus The Third. I will fade into obscurity -- but if anything happens to this world or my loved ones…” You trail off, letting your willpower radiate outward. Even bound within three nullification collars the metal walls around you creak with the strain of your power. “I will burn everything you hold dear.”
A smile flickers across his lips. “It's a deal, Phoebe, Daughter of Sol.”
The words take root as the two of you hash out a legal contract and repeat it in High Empyreal.
“I’ll see you around, Phoebe.” Magnus offers, letting your hand fall from his grip.
“No, you won’t.”
Magnus pauses in the doorway. “You’re right. I won’t.”
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2021, 10:13:42 pm
You sit in the soft grass overlooking a great mountain valley. Two suns dip low in the lazy afternoon sky. Just behind you, a moon begins to crest the horizon. Night will be falling soon, and the temperatures will plunge from the beautiful balmy breeze you feel into frigid cold. You care not. Emma is curled beside you. Her pencil scribbles a drawing out on the rough paper as she commits the planet to memory within one of the many sketchbooks she carries with her to each new world.
Cephie should be around her, somewhere, and so should Moore. Probably playing with Mitch and his pack of rambunctious pups. You tuck your legs up under your coat and try to locate them by willpower alone. Unable to, you shrug and look out over the horizon once more. A breeze ruffles Emma’s hair, sending the red strands dancing. You smile. She scowls and playfully nudges you in the side.
I’m safe now. Sorry--sorry I don’t talk much to you, anymore. There’s no reason to. Not anymore. There’s no war. No battle. No great enemy to vanquish. Nothing to rule. Nothing I can’t handle. Eric has been elected Lord Protector in my absence. William and Isela are carving out an empire. Nicky...she passed a few years ago. I was by her side. She seemed happy -- she crafted a peaceful world for her people and died happy about it.
Me, Emma, Cephie, Moore, and some household attendants just drift from world to world. We occasionally return to McCreary’s rest for resupply and repair, but we never stay too long. You wouldn’t even recognize it! The Holy City stretches as far as the eye can see. The people are happy, healthy, and fat! It has a fleet and merchants from the Rim travel to trade-- I’m...I’m rambling.
Thank you for everything you’ve done. I know...I know you only had the best intentions at heart. I’m sorry if I disappointed you, but I hope you’re happy with your daughter.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2021, 10:19:14 pm
After the End:
A great God of Control and Nature once kept the fanatics of McCreary’s planet turned inward. In its death throes it baptized a new god. One born in battle, in hardship, and of devastation. Phoebe Gainer, The Phoenix of Sol, rose from the ashes of McCreary’s Planet to lead her people to glory over the Plague infection that threatened to devour her new home. While it cost the young demigod her blood, her body, and her innocence, the war never claimed her soul. God and Man alike tempted her with powers untold and she retained her humanity. But the people of McCreary’s Planet never truly recovered from the mental strain of their generation long war.When the final fires of the McCrearian Plague War ended, it left millions of hardened men and women unable to practice their craft. Even with the wealth and career options provided, many of them continued to ply the only trade they truly knew.
The warring factions of the planet united beneath the McCreary’s Rest Alliance, also known as the MRA. The technical aptitude of the Skarinite Pirates, the savage manpower of the Outlanders, and the cruel ambitions of the Families let slip the beast of war on a galaxy recovering from the Plague Advent. Crusaders, Warmachines, Plague Zealots and Outlander clansmen marched across planet after planet. After eighty years, the conquest of the surrounding stellar space was slowed only by the arrival of a Empyreal Naval Fleet.
The Holy Fortress State of SEED grew to be the industrial and technological powerhouse of the MRA. While the initial blow of the Holy City’s destruction and the total war that followed caused significant damage to the economy, Minister Geoyde’s masterful manipulation of currency created a period of rapid economic growth. New corporations took advantage of leaked technological data to modernize the primitive industries of the Fortress State. The new Holy City now stretches from one end of the Holy Land to the other, stopped only by the antimatter scorched wasteland to the west.
With its battlecruiser grounded upon Mcreary’s Rest, the Skarinites joined the MRA without fanfare, having been one of the original alliance. The vessel was stripped and turned into Murdach’s Gleam, also known as Crater City. The majority of the population continue to serve as technical advisors and rapid strike forces for the MRA.
Outlanders found their way of life challenged by the hegemony of the MRA, but, in time, submitted themselves to the new ways. The majority of McCreary’s Rest is still considered ‘Outlands’, but with the MRA’s expansion into space the discordant clans that once called them home are scattered across the nearby stars as scouts, prospectors and warriors. Some make a pilgrimage to the birthplace of their culture, but most never return to that caldera of violence.
Many people of note rose in the time of the Pheonix. Some continued their stories and legends after her exile, while some faded into obscurity.
Eric Applegate received the position of Lord Protector of the MRA after Pheobe’s self-imposed exile. His reign, in the history books, is considered a golden age in the MRA’s history, while many more consider him a genocidal dictator. History is never kind, and neither is the strange illness that plagues the Lord Protector. He makes few public appearances, and when he does, it is always with the assistance of a breathing device or in heavy clothing.
Isela, in the prime of her life, became known as one of the greatest military minds of the Rimward Galaxy. With her cunning use of the disparate militaries beneath the MRA’s banner and her push for rapid modernization, she is one of the key factors for the MRA’s expansion into the Galactic Scene. She and Eric married after the arrival of the Empyreal Fleet and she retired to the position of Lady Protector to train the next generation of MRA officers.
William Thornton ruled the great Fortress State of Thornig. Not much is known about his personal life. Or even if he has one. The man’s one true love appears to be war. His Loomed soldiers served in every heavy assault action the MRA committed to, and he was never far from this vanguard. The Bird of Sol’s Reign never graced him with the wings of his birthright, but with the development of Avernus’ Plaguetech Wing system, he never wanted for them, either.
Silas co-founded Demonic Technologies Unlimited with Queen Avania. His singleminded drive and devotion to the cause of biomechanical and medical sciences led to McCreary’s Rest being known across the Empyre as one of the best providers of cybernetic technology. However, due to his addiction to amphetamines, he recently retired from the public eye citing health reasons.
Queen Avania co-founded Demonic Technologies Unlimited. Immortal, incredibly advanced, and inhumanly intelligent, she pushed the technologies of the MRA one step into the future. However, there are always rumors swirling around the lowest levels of her research labs. Rumors of horrifying and unethical experiments on criminals and ‘blanks’.
Nicole Gainer passed five years after the last day of the Plague War, just before the first warships launched from the MRA’s spaceports. Attended by friends and ‘family’, the battle-hardened soldier died peacefully. Her name graces the largest orbital bombardment vessel in the MRA fleet, and continues to spread fear across the galaxy.
Rekhyt fled the planet as soon as he managed to steal a Skarinite Voidmarine suit. Currently, he operates a MRA unapproved mercenary company. Bloodthirsty, cruel, and successful, he’s the current role model for an entire generation of young Outlanders.
Somewhere in orbit around McCreary’s Rest
“...and how much will her Looming and Conditioning data cost?” Magnus questions, leaning on a throne of pure alabaster white. He neatly crosses his fingers in his lap as he eyes the camera with a dubious look.
“A full Empyreal pardon. Avernus rebuilt...and I’m in control of the project, and reap a fair share of the rewards, as such.” the voice hisses, cybernetically distorted.
“What prevents me from, say, just taking it?” He tilts his head.
“I’m close to producing a viable alternative. One that won’t succumb to the inherent self destructive behaviors.”
Silence. Magnus flips a black and gold coin. It spins through the air...and it lands on gold. “We will arrange a contract. Do you have a host in mind?”
“Yes. A young man by the name of Moore Thornton.”
Post by: Superdorf on May 09, 2021, 10:46:51 pm
D'you know, Phoebe's first flight happened on my birthday? Was a special moment.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 09, 2021, 11:03:13 pm
But I slowly came to realize that Phoebe wouldn't want that. My original inspiration was One Piece. A swashbuckling adventure from world to world! But I realized that it wouldn't happen like that. That the characters that I made and that you shaped all had different aspirations and goals that changed my plans.
I started this story after a very rough breakup, during a very... interesting time in my life. It kept me out of trouble and kept me going. After all, how could I update if I was dead or in the military? Lol.
For a long time, it was an obsession of mine. And still is. I want to do more with the setting and the mechanics. But I also realized that holy shit I half-assed this and you deserved better. I plan on cleaning it up and reformatting it for ease of reading. I want to make it a webcomic-esque adventure down the line, like Homestuck, but need to aquire some capital and make a better plan.
So, I still want to ask some questions, but for now. Thank all of you for the interest and inspiration. I'm glad to have been your gm, and I hope that if I do another game I can be lucky enough to count on some of you as players.
Post by: Eschar on May 10, 2021, 01:14:48 am
The game is beautiful.
Long live Phoebe.
Post by: ZBridges on May 10, 2021, 01:27:53 am
Post by: Devastator on May 10, 2021, 03:41:16 am
Post by: King Zultan on May 10, 2021, 08:06:52 am
Also I still think you could turn this into a book.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 02, 2021, 06:06:57 pm
((Fun fact, this song is what inspired the game in the first place.))
So, with that final update to that reserved message, the game is finally, truly over! Yayyy! Thank you to everyone.
So, I have a couple of questions, just for my records.
Are you satisfied with the end?
What was your favorite part of the game, and why?
What part did you dislike, and why?
What are your views on the setting?
Would you be willing to play another game in the setting?
What part of the narrative did you like and dislike?
What part of the mechanics did you like and dislike?
Any other criticism, comments, or suggestions would also be greatly appreciated.
Post by: King Zultan on June 03, 2021, 04:43:01 am
I mean out of all the ways it could have ended I think we ended up with the best one. What were the other two endings?
What was your favorite part of the game, and why?
All of it.
What part did you dislike, and why?
Nothing I can think of.
What are your views on the setting?
Not at all what I was expecting when I read the beginning.
Would you be willing to play another game in the setting?
Yes.
What part of the narrative did you like and dislike?
There wasn't any part in particular that I disliked.
What part of the mechanics did you like and dislike?
I didn't see any part to dislike it all seemed pretty straight forward to me.
Any other criticism, comments, or suggestions would also be greatly appreciated.
I have no criticism to give.
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 03, 2021, 09:29:58 am
Post by: ZBridges on June 04, 2021, 02:32:31 am
I am, though I found it surprising that Emma's attitude towards Phoebe changed so suddenly. I'm also intrigued by the updated epilogue.
What was your favorite part of the game, and why?
I enjoyed all of it, but I thought that the beginning was the most interesting, as that was when we had the least information while exploring a totally unfamiliar and alien world. I do feel that the setting still has many interesting mysteries.
What part did you dislike, and why?
I actually felt that something was lost when Phoenix became more passive and our roles became less defined, but I do think that the suggestion game format generally doesn't lend itself well to roleplaying.
What are your views on the setting?
It's very interesting and well developed. I like how we gained knowledge of it over time rather than an infodump at the beginning or something like that.
Would you be willing to play another game in the setting?
Most likely, depending on the specifics.
What part of the narrative did you like and dislike?
I liked the distinction between the players and the entity that actually carried out the suggestions (or chose not to) that developed over time. Using the powers was difficult for me, as I am pretty ignorant of physics and chemistry, but I still enjoyed making the attempts. I also like that the Holy City was destroyed, as I feel that players shouldn't receive results that they do not deserve.
Which part of the mechanics did you like and dislike?
I thought that the mechanics behind the powers were unique and interesting. The mechanics related to non-combat skills may have been less well defined.
Post by: Devastator on June 04, 2021, 02:48:56 am
I liked the early portions. It liked the exploration and creativity. It also felt a bit more tense.
I'm feel meeting mysterious contacts would have been better with a more formal relationship.. such as the end-of-act encounters. Like inside dreams or when the MC is knocked out or horribly wounded or something.. it'd make it more clear what's going on, while confirming that the world we live in and play in is the important one.
I also don't like zalgo text and hidden cryptic statements. It's already hidden by being cryptic, so why hide it twice?
Setting was good.. it was more solid and well developed than the norm. About the only unbelievable thing was having a low-population frontier society being contemptous of large numbers of casulties. Only part I didn't like was that it felt like there wasn't enough time to really explore it before we had to advance to the next stage.
I'd be willing to play another game in the setting, but I can't commit to it, having several games of my own running.
The overarching high level plot seemed quite interesting. I didn't like how it was so mysterious, however. I feel it would have been a bit more interesting if there was something else to go on early on, or if the MC was some kind of accident or unexpected situation which the higher powers would have to work with or around.
Mechanics seemed pretty lousy. There wasn't much information on what our powers actually were, or what we could do or not do, particularly the latter. Die rolls were of unknown size with unknown modifiers for unknown results.. that's just fine for random events or story-centric gameplay, but I can't call it solid mechanically. Like it's perfectly fine for background random rolls, but if the mechanics are going to be central to the game, they should work in a somewhat consistant manner.
Overall, I feel like a lower power level would have been more enjoyable, with a bit more planning, but that's anathema to many players and will lead to a lot of people being unwilling or unable to decide things. so.. do what you're good at? I'd also recommend giving people time to branch out or occasional decisions to make, while always trying to keep the north in mind, that is, the major goals of the current section or story arc. I'd also want timeskips to be less abrupt, with maybe time for one or two quick events during the timeskip, to help flesh out character development and to allow players to do more long-term development goals. Phoebe seemed to end up with an army of random characters with random abilities, using random tactics, for instance.. it would have been nice to help work on the army or the friendly character's ability to coordinate. It also made perfect sense for there to be shortages and privation for the civilians with the war economy running, but there could have been the opportunity to ease one or two of them with effort.. that there was no real opportunity to do.
Post by: SystemsTestCanary on June 09, 2021, 03:00:53 pm
I think a wiki would be a good way to preserve the project and would be useful to new readers (there are a few!)
Otherwise, I will just fill up the wiki with crappy McCreary fanart made in MS Paint, and nobody wants that.
I am also considering creating a McCreary's Planet Discord server, if there is interest.
Post by: ZBridges on June 10, 2021, 01:53:07 am
Post by: SystemsTestCanary on June 10, 2021, 06:40:39 am
That sounds cool. Are you a reader?
Yes, though I started reading later on in the story and currently am trying to catch up from the beginning.
Post by: Eschar on June 10, 2021, 01:29:45 pm
Spoiler: Biography as an ancestor (click to show/hide)
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on June 20, 2021, 12:48:09 pm
Post by: SystemsTestCanary on June 23, 2021, 02:04:57 am
Spoiler: invite link url as plaintext since I'm too lazy to set up a link (click to show/hide)
Post by: Eschar on September 13, 2021, 11:50:48 pm
Sorry for necro(?).
Post by: King Zultan on September 14, 2021, 02:11:08 am
Post by: Eschar on September 14, 2021, 09:23:49 am
Post by: King Zultan on September 15, 2021, 01:56:59 am
Post by: Eschar on February 09, 2022, 01:05:03 pm
Post by: King Zultan on February 10, 2022, 04:59:12 am
Post by: Eschar on February 11, 2022, 08:13:53 pm
Dang, it does not feel like that this started two years ago.
oh? does feel like it's been shorter than that, or longer?
It feels a bit shorter than that, to me.
Post by: King Zultan on February 12, 2022, 04:28:03 am
Post by: Eschar on February 13, 2022, 11:52:16 pm
If feels like it started sometime last year.
It did end sometime last year after all.
Post by: King Zultan on February 14, 2022, 01:43:52 am
Post by: Eschar on May 10, 2023, 02:37:31 pm
Post by: Superdorf on May 10, 2023, 04:49:08 pm
Post by: 19_EgarAlnis on May 10, 2023, 06:18:12 pm
Post by: Devastator on May 10, 2023, 07:20:44 pm
Post by: King Zultan on May 11, 2023, 01:27:42 am
Post by: Eschar on May 11, 2023, 09:42:45 am
Post by: Superdorf on May 12, 2023, 12:52:06 am
https://dffd.bay12games.com/file.php?id=16687