Paladin History

Paladin History
Saturday September 15th

5:00-5:10 pm Brandon feels his stomach rumble and decides he will head home and get some dinner.

5:10-5:20 pm Brandon gets home and digs through the refrigerator to find some roast beef.He makes a couple of sandwiches and heats up some soup.

5:20-5:30 pm Brandon sits to eat his dinner,anticipating his first night out in costume.

5:30-5:40 pm Brandon finishes his sandwiches and soup and then lounges on the couch.

5:40-5:50 pm Brandon slowly falls into a comfortable doze.

5:50-6:00 pm Brandon naps.

6:00-6:10 pm Brandon wakes from his nap and glances at the clock.He shakes himself completely awake,and steps into his bedroom to change into his costume.In a few minutes he appears in his living room as Paladin,ready to show the city it's newest hero.He sneaks out the window and begins his first patrol of the city.

6:10-6:50 pm Paladin continues his patrol.

6:50-7:00 pm A long-haired man in a green and blue costume flies to a point above and ahead of the Paladin,his staff raised menacingly. "Move slowly,mister...what are you doing out here?" From the corner of his eye Paladin notices another costumed man,this one garbed in brown,off to his left.

7:00-7:10 pm Ice forms quickly around the brown clad man and he takes a defensive stance. "I believe the same as you." ,Paladin replies as he glares at the long haired man.

7:10-7:20 pm Paladin glances over at the brown garbed man, "Whats up with you? I mean no harm." He takes a couple of steps back and also gets into a defensive stance.The man replies, "He asked who you are. I suggest you answer." From his position hovering in the air,the green man gestures with his staff. "Perhaps introductions are in order...I am Wraith,a Guardian..." He points to the red 'G' at his belt, "...and this is Lord Galen,leader of the Guardians.Your turn...and please don't move another step..."

7:20-7:30 pm Lord Galen gives the stranger a stern look, " I will ask one more time. Who are you and what is your business here?" Paladin looks confused a moment, "Guardians? Never heard of them. Anway I'm Br.... Er Paladin, I came from a town not far from here. And who are you?" he asks looking up at Wraith Lord Galen gestures toward the long haired flier, "As Wraith has said I am Lord Galen."

7:30-7:40 pm Lord Galen pauses a moment, "I am leader of The Guardians. A group of heroes who protect this city. Do you live under a rock? Our recent exploits have been all over the news along with this Legacy Virus thing." Paladin replies, "Guess the reason I'm not familir with 'The Guardians', as you call yourselves, is because my old town never cared much about mutants and supernatural beings. To think about it,I don't believe they were any supernatural beings or mutants living there.The only way I found out about this town was looking through a old newspaper I got while out on vacation and saw a picture of a character named 'Omega'. I also never heard of the 'Legacy Virus' what does it do?" He relaxes his stance and looks up where Wraith hovers. "Your not going to hurt me are you?" Wraith gives him a smile and slowly lowers to the roof. "I won't hurt you...as long as you don't make any stupid moves.The Legacy Virus is a disease that was manufactured by an evil doctor to wipe out mutants but now seems to be spreading through the regular population."

7:40-7:50 pm Omega flies down amongst the three costumed men and nods to Wraith and Lord Galen, in turn. He then turns his attention to the third costumed individual and looks him over for a few moments, trying to see if he picks up on anything unusual or if there's anything about him that sets his cosmic awareness abilities abuzz. Finally, Omega nods a quick greeting and then turns his attention to Lord Galen.Speaking lowly, Omega tells him, "Afterburn and I have spoken with Wojo,Galen--he will help us as much as he can but wants us to understand that there is only so much he can do. If push comes to shove, I honestly don't know how much he will be able to help us. He's caught between a rock and a hard place right now. He will, however, do everything HE feels is needed to protect the city." Wraith takes a step forward,a hand running through his long hair. "Do not concern yourself with Wojo.He has his part in this little drama,but I can assure you he has the cities best interest at heart.His will,his strength and his resolve will be tested but he is a strong man in many ways." Omega continues, "I also spoke with the press concerning the Protectors/Sentinels team being dissolved, so they now know that we are all pretty much united together. I didn't speak too much concerning the Guardians as I feel that should be more your role, as leader of the team and I didn't want to overstep my bounds. I told them just enough to try to put peoples minds at ease and let them know we are ALL out here, together--trying to keep the city safe. As per our earlier discussions, what information we do have should be closely guarded. I had hoped things with Wojo might go better. I felt he and I had a sort of connection but...well, I'm just sorry I wasn't able to be more help in that regard." Lord Galen motions toward the new arrivals, "Omega also is a Guardian. Paladin you say your name is. Welcome to Midville. Just know that we will be watching you. If you need us here is a number to reach us." He gives Paladin a number to reach the base.Omega looks again to the new hero. "Paladin, eh? I'm Omega." Omega extends his hand. "Nice to meet you. This is Afterburn, another of the city's heroes." Paladin waves to Afterburn and shakes Omega's hand. "Um... Hi." As the new hero holds Omega's hand,Omega feels a strange sensation spread up his arm.Lord Galen glances at Wraith, "Wraith, lets make one more sweep of the city and head back to the base. I want to hear what the president has to say." Suddenly Paladin burst into blue flame to the shock of the other heroes standing there.

7:50-8:00 pm Lord Galen takes a step back,his face serious. "Omega, Whats going on?" Omega increases his flame abilities to full force and prepares for combat.Afterburn raises her arms,her fist aimed at Paladin.Omega replies to Lord Galen, "I don't know, Galen--I think maybe he absorbed my powers somehow." Lord Galen quickly orders, "Wraith, if he makes one wrong move take him out.Paladin, What is the meaning of this?" Paladin stands in shock a moment, "There truely is no meaning for this. Its just one of my powers, honestly I ain't going to use Omega's power to fight." Omega quickly replies, "This might be incredibly dangerous. The Omega Force--the source of my powers--is sentient. I honestly didn't know if it would work for someone else." Omega looks to Paladin, "I don't know what you're playing at here, pal. But what you just did is very bad form. You should stand down." Paladin answers, "There is no reason to fight." As he speaks the blue flame around him begins to fade and for a moment Paladin feels something in his mind,another presence...a foreign presense.As the flames fade,so does the presence.

8:00 pm Turn 1,Phase 41 "But for now it doesn't last that long, Thank God." ,Paladin says. "That feels a little better too." he comments as he rubs his head. "No hard feelings Omega? And for the rest of you,sorry for the little scare.His flame just looked so cool! But seriously I am not an enemy of yours." Paladin turns to walk to the roof edge as Afterburn suddenly turns her head to the northwest,her eyes squinted in concentration. "WaitAMinute,Guys. SomethingFunnyIsGoingOnNearTheSchool. IThinkIJustSawAFewMenRunningInThatDirection. AndIThinkISawSomeWeapons."

8:00 pm Turn 1,Phase 40 Omega speaks up, "Afterburn, wait. Don't go rushing off into a potentially dangerous situation all by yourself." Omega watches as Afterburn moves nervously,pacing slightly.Omega looks to Paladin and then back to Galen, "What do you think? Should we take the new guy with us?" Phase 39 Afterburn looks anxiously to the north-west,the direction of the school. "ISayIfHeClaimsToBeAGoodGuy, ThenWeLetHimComeAlong. WeDon'tKnowIfWeWillNeedTheHelpOrNot." Phase 32 Hanging in the air above the roof,Wraith turns in the direction of the school. "So far I don't see anything that would indicate the use of super powers.What would you like to do Galen?"

8:00 pm Turn 1,Phases(25) Lord Galen quickly says, "We've got to check it out. Lets go Wraith." Omega replies, "Okay, I can take two...Afterburn can get there just as quickly under her own power..." Omega grabs hold of Galen and then steps to Paladin.He tries to lift the other hero and finds he can't.Paladin looks up at him then comments, "If Omega can't carry me,then by all means let Wraith carry me." Omega turns to Paladin and says, "The rest of us have at least some combat experience." Even as he speaks, Omega is aware of the irony of his statement--after all, he himself has only been active as a hero for a few days--although it somehow seems like months have passed since he first donned his costume. "Just follow Galen's lead and you'll be fine. And careful with that power absorption thing. Maybe you should only use that on the bad guys for the time being." Paladin replies, "I have other useful powers other than absorption.No need to worry about me." From the direction of the school the heroes hear a crash and some voices yelling,but are unable to make out the words.Omega looks at the others then flies off in that direction. Phases(24) Afterburn gives the two remaining heroes a quick glance the takes off in a blur. Phases(18) Wraith swoops down and grasp Paladin by the collar. "Once we get there set my across the street from the school." ,Paladin says as he is lifted into the air. "I will try,perhaps we should see what the situation is before you decide though." ,Wraith grunts as the two soar over the city.As they near the school both of them see seven young men,all wearing gang colors,scattered around the area.They seem to be centered on the townhouse across the street from the school and one of them is pulling an axe from the door,which is splitting where it was struck.Two of the others seem to be holding knives,another a rusty sword.Within seconds Wraith,carrying Paladin,flies up next to Omega.The young gang members are giggling,laughing and one yells out, "Come on out MUTIE!! We have something for you!" Omega asks Galen, "What's the call, boss?"

8:00 pm Turn 1,Phase(17) Lord Galen taps his badge, "Base send local authorities to our location." He then says to the other heroes. "I want them stopped and detained." He tells Omega , "Fly me over to the boy with the axe and the townhouse door. I want to get an Ice Guard on that door before they hurt someone." Omega replies, "You got it." In Wraith's grasp,Paladin shouts, "Hope you guys can handle this." He raise his hands to the sky and nothing happens.From the underground garage to the north one of the thugs runs closer. Phase(14) Another one runs around the corner of the townhouses to gather near the others at the door. Phase(12) The thug at the door raises the axe again and brings it crashing down on the door.The crack in the door widens and the door barely remains standing. Phase(10) Omega tells Afterburn and the others, "Okay, just like Galen said--let's take these guys down before they hurt someone." He flies down to the ground and drops Galen off near the door.Lord Galen raises his arms and a blast of ice shoots to the door covering it with 1 foot of ice.The thugs look over,surprised as Omega says, "Hey, pal--you guys want to pick on somebody? Pick on US!" He targets the nearest thug and lets loose a blast of blue flame.The flame smacks the thug in the street holding a knife and he stumbles backwards then falls to the pavement,not moving. The thug with the rusty sword rushes over to Afterburn and swings.The sword strikes her in the shoulder and she lets out a small moan. Phase(9) Afterburn smiles at her assailant, "IGuessYourMotherNeverTaughtYouNotToHitGirls." She raise her arm and a yellow beam leaps from her hands.The beam strikes the thug in the chest and he immediately falls to the ground. Phase(3) Paladin looks up at Wraith, "If you want to you can put me down here or on the warehouse." Wraith nods at him and flies over to the warehouse and drops his passenger.He then turns and aims his staff at the thug below.A dark colored blast leaps out striking the thug in the chest,sending him backwards about five feet.He lands in a heap and doesn't move.

8:00 pm Phase(2) Lord Galen turns to the thug with the axe and lets loose an ice blast.The ice smashes into the thug,sends him flying out into the street.He lands in a sprawl,completely covered in a large slab of ice.Up on the warehouse rooftop Paladin says, "Ok,now let's try this again...." Once again he raises his arms to the sky. "Cross your fingers..." He glances up to the sky,astounded that nothing is happening. Phase(0) Blue flames flickering around him,Omega turns and glances at the pile of ice,then turns his attention to the thug with the knife.A tongue of blue leaps forward,covering the man.He lets out a slight scream before falling motionless to the pavement. Phase(-1) Afterburn lets out a small giggle then,in a blur,moves over to the thug in the intersection.Again the yellow beam fires from her hands and the man falls to the street. Phase(-2) From above,Wraith swoops down and lands in the street a few feet from the remaining,standing thug.Dark energy leaps from his staff and the criminal takes the blow in the chest.He flies ten feet,before landing in a heap in the street.The group of heroes glance around the empty street,when they notice a curtain in one of the lower windows ruffle and a face peers out.The face is that of a young teen girl,maybe 13, and she looks frightened.The curtain returns to covering the window and Afterburn lets out a gasp. "...Imp ? SheLooksLikeImp..."

8:00-8:05 pm,turn 1 Phase(43) Omega looks up at Paladin on the rooftop above, "Um...does anyone have any idea exactly what it is he's doing up there?" Paladin crawls down the side of the building and walks toward the group of superheroes. "Heh, guess it didn't work." Paladin notices Galen looking at something. "What are you looking at Lord Galen?" He follows Galen's gaze and again the girl's face appears in the window for a brief moment.Omega looks around at the group. He shakes his head, "That girl is too young to be Imp. Besides, Imp probably could have handled these guys on her own. But the resemblance is uncanny. We still know very little about Imp. Maybe she has a sister?" Omega suggests, "We should proceed cautiously. Whoever that girl is, she seems scared half to death. We should try not to frighten her more than she already is." He glances towards Afterburn and asks, "You okay? I noticed you took a hit during the battle." Afterburn pats her shoulder and replies, "OhItWasNothing. JustAGlancingBlow. AndThisIsCreepy, CouldItBeImp'sSister?" Lord Galen speaks to the girl in the window. "You are safe. Who are you, and why are these boys trying to hurt you?" The girl's eyes go wide for a moment,searching the street around the heroes. "I ain't supposed to talk with strangers.I..I don't know why the boys chased me.I was talking with one of them,he was kinda cute,ya know.Then his buddies showed up and...and...well I wanted to seem tough.So I kinda bragged a little..." Her eyes continue to search the streets around the heroes,almost in a panic. "But you have to leave,PLEASE,he's going to be home soon and you CAN'T be here." Off to the side Omega looks around, "Wonder if there are any more of these punks around here?" Just as he speaks the sentence Afterburn turns and dashes into the park.Glancing over the other heroes watch as she approaches a young man with a baseball bat.She raises her hands and the yellow energy encases the young man for a split second before he drops to the ground.From the corner of the parking garage entrance to the north the heroes hear a yell. "Alright you FREAKS,no one fucks with the Dragons and gets away with it!" The turn to see a gang member holding a very sophisticated looking handgun.

8:05 pm,turn 1 Phase(43)-8:10 pm Lord Galen looks up at the punk, "Alright guys, try not to hurt the gangbanger. Take him out! Omega sizes the punk up quickly. "The Dragons. Right. So, what...the 'Nicotines' are going to show up later and you guys are going to rumble? Please." Omega flies closer to him, "Didn't your mother teach you not to play with guns." The blue energy of the Omega Force swirls around his fist as he moves--the energy flashes forward and hits the thug in the chest.The thug flies backwards and lands prone in the street,the pistol clattering off to the side.Omega approaches cautiously and examines the weapon. "Hmmmmm...this is too sophisticated for street punks, Galen. Someone could be supplying them." Omega looks for any markings on the weapon which might provide a clue as to the source of origin.The gun doesn't seem to bear any obvious markings,almost like it was made to be non-descript.Afterburn moves around quickly,gathering the thugs into a small group near the street corner. "WhenWeGetBackToTheBaseI'llCheckOutTheWeapon." Wraith steps over and stands over the group of thugs,dark energy swirling around him.As he does a few of three of the thugs begin to stir and look up at him,their eyes frightened.

8:10-8:20 pm Omega speaks quietly to Lord Galen, “There’s something awfully strange about all of this, Galen. If that IS Imp’s sister this is one weird coincidence. Maybe we could let Afterburn try to talk with her? She and Imp get along pretty well.” Lord Galen nods his agreement and Omega turns to Afterburn.He whispers to her, “Rhonda, check on the girl. You have a really good rapport with Imp. If she is Imp’s sister then maybe you can connect with her and learn something about what’s going on here.” Afterburn smiles a small smile then unclasps her wristbands. "O.K. just give me some space,the poor girl looks like she is terrified out of her mind,and I don't think it is the thugs that have her frightened." She turns and walks slowly toward the window, "Everything is under control now...why don't you and I talk a little while my friends wrap up the loose ends..." The girl in the window visibly shakes but remains at the window.Afterburn moves close,leaning on the window sill,and begins a quiet conversation.Omega steps closer to the gathered group of thugs, the bluish fire of the Omega Force flickering around him. "The Dragons, huh? You know, I've heard of a superhero in another city who goes by the name of Dragon. You guys are an insult to his name!" Lord Galen glances at Paldin,and smirks. "Paladin, you might want to step back. They might slap you and really hurt you.By the way, what kind of dance was that you were doing?" The few thugs that are conscious let out a small giggle that quiets quickly as Omega nods to Lord Galen, then looks over to Wraith and offers a wry smile. Omega finally turns his attention back to the gangbangers and smirks as he uses his thumb to point in Wraith’s direction. "This is my friend Wraith. He has the power to send people to the dark dimension of hell. Don’t worry though…we wouldn’t dare think of insulting time-honored gang tradition by insisting you answer our questions without first being subjected to torture. You know…hellfire, brimstone…that sort of thing…” Wraith slowly rises above the thugs,hovering a few feet above their heads.Slowly tendrils of dark energy curl from his outstretched fingers and begin to dance around the criminals like a living thing.The teenage boys look up in horror,one of them mumbling something under his breath.Satisfied the theatrics have the boys ready to talk Omega begins to ask questions. "Why were you trying to hurt that girl? Who is she?" The mumbling boy looks at the heroes,his eyes wide, "She...she's rich and flaunts it...and tonight she bragged about how powerful she was...how we were nothing...we thought she was a freaking mutant...we just wanted to teach her a lesson..." Sternly,Omega continues, "Where did you get that weapon? Are you working for someone? Who?" The boy slowly answers, "No..nobody...honest...we just gang together for protection...for kicks...there's a guy,sells weapons cheap...drives a van...does a good business,most of the eastside gangs have some now...we needed protection...please...please..." The boy begins to cry,dropping his face into his hands.From around the corner a squad car pulls up,it's lights flashing red and blue flashes on the sides of the building.A cop steps from each side of the vehicle,weapons drawn.It takes a few moments before they recognize the heroes and slowly holster their guns.One returns to the vehicle and gets on the radio as the other slowly strides toward the gathering.Paladin walks up next to Omega. "If you don't mind could I ask your names?" He gazes into the frightened eyes of the thugs and smirks.From behind the men,Afterburn walks up and says,in a low voice, "Guys we need to leave,the girl is frightened and worried.It wasn't the boys that scared her so much as WE do.I'm not sure but I believe it has something to do with her Dad." She glances over at the window,the curtains now closed. "And I do believe she is Imp's sister though I couldn't get her to talk much about her family."

8:10-8:20 pm Paladin grits his teeth at Lord Galen's heinous remark.Omega nods to Afterburn and smiles. "Hang onto that Han Solo special," ,Omega says. "I'm anxious to see what we can learn about it." Afterburn pats the weapon,stuck in her belt.She glances at the police officers then starts to put her wristbands back on. "Perhaps I need to dash,before the men in blue get a little curious.I'll meet you all back at the base." With a wink at Omega,she disappears eastward in a blur. Wraith lands lightly near the police officers,effectively blocking them from getting near the other heroes. "Evening officers," ,he begins politely. "We apprehended these boys in the act of vandalism and terroristic threatening.You will find a young girl inside this townhouse who will give you all of the details." Behind him Omega turns his attention towards Paladin and tells him, "I'm Omega. That lovely lady is our resident speedster, who calls herself Afterburn. And surely you recognize Lord Galen and Wraith as members of the Guardians?" Paladin's eyes narrow, "Yes, Yes, Yes I already know this, you told me on that building. And it is sort of hard to forget someone that you took blue flames from and have seen in the newspaper. Guardians are a real corny name why did you call it that?" The police officers begin to cuff the punks and the heroes hear the wail of a paddy wagon as it nears them.Wraith steps over to the costumed men.Omega turns to Wraith and offers, quietly, "So...what do you think, Wraith? Think that kid was telling the truth about where he got that weapon? If someone is selling advanced weaponry out on the streets to the highest bidder, obviously that's only going to add to our problems." Wraith strides further from the police officers and the other heroes follow.His voice is low as he replies. "It makes sense,in an odd way,yes I believe he was speaking the truth.That would explain how the mutant revolt gets so out of hand so quickly.That had always puzzled me,the government has plenty of power to quell the rebellion but if civilian groups like these thugs also jump into the fight armed with sophisticated weapons the government may well have it's hands full.Some person or organization has stepped in to rachet up the pressure.But surely whoever is selling the weapons can't be making any money off of them.The common street thug in no way has the money to afford such technology.What angle are they pursuing?" The group stops under a streetlight,Wraith deep in thought.Omega looks to Galen and asks, “Do you think we need to patrol any more tonight?” Galen glances at the captured criminals and, feeling confident that the authorities now have the situation well in hand, shakes his head no. “Let the locals handle the rest.” ,Galen says.Omega happens to notice the time on the display panel on his police scanner. "Well, the bad guys had really terrible timing tonight. I think they caused us to miss the president’s speech. If we go back to the base, could the computer replay it for us? We might also get the chance to ask Imp about our mystery girl.” Galen nods in agreement. “Alright. Omega, do you mind giving me a lift back to the base?” Omega replies, “Not a problem.” He looks around at the others, “Anyone else need a ride?” He then recalls his earlier problem with trying to transport two passengers and adds, “I might be able to carry two as long as one of the passengers is light enough…or is everyone else good to travel under their own power?” Wraith looks long and hard at Paladin then says, "I'll be along in a moment,I would like to have some words with our young friend here." Omega nods and takes to the sky, along with his passenger, soaring back towards Guardian Base.Wraith watches the two fly off then turns to Paladin. "So young hero,what is your problem with the Guardians and what were you doing up there?"

8:30-8:40 pm "Eh.. they all seems like jerks," Paladin replies but adds quickly, "Except you, of course. I was trying to change the weather. Really difficult at times, and there are no clouds." Paladin is surprised when the solemn Wraith smiles. "Yes they can be jerks,but remember that these heroes have a lot on their shoulders right now.The world is spiraling into madness and they feel the responsibility of stopping it.So your powers are weather change? Perhaps you were trying to hard,start small and work your way up to the bigger things." "So the Gaurdians have a base, when was it built,how, and why?" ,Paladin says,walking to a near by building and leaning against it.Wraith steps over near him,his eyes on the staff in his hand. "The history of the Guardians is shrouded in mystery.What is known is that one of Midville's best heroes,Jaguar,built the base and founded the original Guardians.They were a bright beacon for just a short time before they disbanded and the base was closed.No one is sure why or where the original Guardians disappeared to except that Jaguar died soon after closing the base."

8:40-8:50 pm "How did the base get open? brute force? Who opened it and why?" ,Paladin asks glancing back and forth down the street. Wraith also glances up and down the empty street as he replies. "The story as I know it,and I'm not sure this is the complete truth,Jaguar left instructions that when a certain badge was found it would allow a heroic person to use the base for the good of Midville.The actual details as to who found the badge and opened it,I am not sure." Paladin is silent a moment,before asking, "And this 'legacy virus' how can you catch it and what happens when you do?" Wraith's face gets dark,his eyes drop to the ground. "The virus started as a government experiment and some mad doctor has altered it to infect mutants.Now the virus has mutated and can infect anyone,apparently.It seems to be transmitted by touch,but we are not sure.If you contract the disease it attacks your genetic code,breaking it down,until you die."

8:50-9:00 pm "Is the a vaccine for it? Do you know anyone who has caught it?", Paladin asks.This time Wraith's eyes catch his and Wraith's voice is low. "No,at this time there is no cure ... and I don't think there will be one for a while.Right now there are quite a few of the cities heroes who have been infected and some of them will not survive the coming storm." He pauses as he gazes up at the moon then again looks at Paladin. "But I must be going ... would you like to accompany me?"

9:00-9:20 pm "Yeah, ok" ,Paladin nods agreeably, pushing himself off the wall.Wraith takes him in his arms and the two soar over the city.Soon they are over a park and a lake.In the center of the lake a large,square hole sticks out of the middle and Wraith flies down the long tube.He lands in a large room at the bottom.Paladin follows him through some coridors until he finds himseldf in a small room,full of costumed metas.Wraith looks around the room,a puzzled look on his face.When his gaze finds Imp on the bed he quickly asks, "What's the matter,What's going on?"

9:20-9:40 pm Omega replies to Wraith, "It seems your future is upon us, Wraith. Imp is under attack--apparently from Mentor. I believe that the revolt you spoke of earlier may already be underway. The time has come for total honesty between us all. If there is anything else you can tell us that might be helpful, now is the time." Wraith barely glances over at Imp then turns his dark eyes toward Omega. "Total honesty? Total honesty? I don't like the insinuation there.Do you not realize that I am from 50 years in the future of this event and that most if not all records were lost or destroyed.I know what I know because I spent years of my life searching for every little detail I could find." Lord Galen steps between the two, "Wraith, Imp is being attacked or controlled mentally. We think if we fly her out of range of the telepath she may be able to shake it. I need you to help us understand your past, our future. We need more to go on." Wraith takes a breath before he replies, "I will advise you the best I can,but much of this is shrouded in mystery to me also.Only when the pieces begin to show themselves can I add them into the knowledge I do have." He steps over to the med bed where Imp now lies calmly,quietly. "So Mentor is the invisible one behind the movement.That is a surprise,she did a good job concealing it in my past.But I do not believe she acts alone,there is someone else here pulling her strings...." He seems to drift into thought,his eyes staring at the teen girl on the bed.Omega then looks to Afterburn, "Can you take one of the Srikers to New York, as Lord Galen suggested? The sooner we get Imp out of range, the better. And...be careful." Afterburn steps to the corner and retrieves her arm bands as she replies, "I'll be plenty careful but believe me,the mood I am in,whoever wants to mess with Imp better be careful." Lord Galen steps over to the doctor and raises his hands,palms up. "Doctor,I apologize for the outburst. We are all under a lot of stress here. If you wish to help Imp you may go with us." The doctor continues to stare at the console as she replies but her voice has softened. "Thank you,I would love to go with Imp.Her brain activity has settled,more of a deep sleep type brain pattern.I'm not an expert on meta-powers but wouldn't this telepath have to exert some form of energy to attack her mind? Perhaps she has tired and can't attack right now? Even so I think getting her away from the city may be the best in case this telepath tries again." Omega turns to Poundage, "Who do you have in mind to go with you to check out the mutants, Poundage?" Poundage stands ready,hands on his hips, "Ok, anyone that wants to go check on the mutants, prepare for the worst. I will be ready whenever anyone else is." Vengeance finally speaks up from his spot near the door. "I will go with Poundage to check out the mutants.We can use my badge to get out but we could use an extra badge to get back in.We should be on our way while the clues are fresh." "I'll go!" ,Paladin chimes in. "As long as nobody touches me. Can't be to carefully, I have to get to work tomorrow. This will let me get a feel for combat, if any arises." Omega adds, "I would also volunteer to go with Poundage. However, I think it should be his decision as to how large...or small...a group he wishes to take with him." "Actually any size group is fine with me. We don't know what we are getting in to, so the more the merrier. Also everyone stay close to me. I can lift everyone of us and touch the badge." Poundage answers then turns to Paladin, "I don't think we have met. I am Poundage. Independent super hero, sworn protector of Midville. What do you mean as long as no one touches you? We have to touch you to get you out of the base without opening the bridge. Unless we wait for Afterburn to open the bridge for the Striker." Paladin looks puzzled, "Who the heck is this Striker? Um, I'm Paladin, new person in town. I mean, I don't know if you have the virus, it spreads by contact, and I want to live, thats what Wraith told me." Poundage turns back to the other heroes. "Also, shouldn't someone go with Afterburn for extra security? The Guardians are not well liked anymore. The Striker shows the logo." Near the doctor Vyra finally speaks, "I believe that standing around here will accomplish nothing. If anything, this is not the time for us to hide, afraid, in our bases. I think we should group off under our affiliations. Perhaps the Sentinals shall accompany and protect Imp and be there when she arises, and the remaining Muardians seek mentor herself, or visa versa. What ever we do, we must move quickly. Every second, the future that Wraith has seen draws closer to reality."

9:40-9:50 pm Omega replies to Vyra, "What you and Poundage suggest may indeed be the wisest course, Vyra. We must also consider that many heroes may be needed here in Midville before the night is out. And there are so few of us left. But I DO believe protecting Imp SHOULD be a primary concern." Omega looks to Wraith, "Wraith, I did not mean to be disrespectful to you before. I know it is hard for you watching these events unfold which you have tried so hard to prevent. I just thought...I mean, I had HOPED that perhaps...there might be...something we had not yet considered. I guess I was...grasping at straws." Omega continues, "But I know that we are beyond that point now. All our efforts to prevent the future from coming to fruition have failed. We must now deal with this crisis as best we can, with the belief that we can still somehow weather the storm. If we can only prevent it from being as bad, that's something, right?" Wraith stares at Imp then turns to glare at Omega. "I never expected your respect.But you are right,Imp is the key.I will stay here and watch over the city while everyone goes either to the mutants or to New York.I need to do some thinking,research anyway." Impatiently Vengeance urges, "Let's go already,quit the yaking and get the fuck out of here." "Shall the Sentinal's go with Imp, the Guardians stay here and the free-lancers go after the mutants?" Vyra asks.Poundage's head snaps in her direction, "Vyra, try to remember not all of us are Sentinnels or Guardians. So should I go check on the mutants with just the non-affiliated heroes. I swear you guys and your segregation. Where is the sentinnels 'base'?......thought so. Affiliation means nothing. We are just here trying to help. I am ready. Anyone going with me, let's go." He takes a couple of steps toward the door the turns back to Vyra. "That is if it is ok that I seek out Mentor as well. I hate to be an ass, but all I hear is Sentinels this and Guardians that. The non-affiliated heroes helped at the mountain. Hell as far as I am concerned the best hero we lost that day was an independent." He pauses,places his right hand on his heart and looks to the sky. "Rest in peace Scar. Paladin I do not have the virus, so stop being a wus." "Wuss? hmph. You haven't see what I can do!" ,Paladin grunts then nods to Poundage. "I'm ready when everyone is." Poundagelooks to Omega, Paladin, and Vengeance, "Looks like we are the four horsemen. Let's stay close and watch one another's back. Those of you that have fought with me know that I will do anything to prevent anything bad from happening to any of us." He reaches out his hand and the four men clutch wrist.Omega's last glimpse of the medlab shows him Afterburn blowing him a kiss.Next he finds himself standing at the statue in Buchannon park.Without a word the heroes follow Poundage's leaps over the quiet city.In the distance they can see military helicopters flying here and there over the region near the airport.Finally they make it to a manhole cover,strangely uncovered.They slowly drop into the sewers and abandoned tunnels below the city streets.They haven't gone far when they see evidence of battle.There are scorch marks on the walls,chunks of concrete blasted from certain sections.They move cautiously forward when they spot the first body.They are unable to determine whether the body is male or female as a large portion of it seems to have been disintegrated.They take a couple more steps when a voice bellows out from up ahead. "Stop where you stand...identify yourselves...and if you have come to finish the job you will find I'm not an easy target when I'm not mind controlled..."

9:50-10:00 pm Omega peers through the darkness down the long tunnel.The blue flames flicker around him as the Omega Force helps him to place the pieces of the puzzle ... scorch marks on the walls ... chunks of concrete blasted from certain sections ... a body ... a large portion of it disintegrated ... evidence of battle. "A war," ,Omega mutters. "A civil war. The mutants have divided." Omega thinks for a moment. A mutant, up ahead, who can identify them--sense them--far before they reach the mutant's location. The comment the mutant made rings in Omega's mind, 'You will find I'm not an easy target when I'm not mind controlled...' Omega tells Poundage, "It's Probe. But he is NOT our enemy. And I was only half right before about the identity of our foe. Mentor is not acting alone. Mind control. Not one of Mentor's powers. She's strictly a telepath. I think Mentor and Mental may be acting in unison. Combining their powers together." Omega's voice takes on a somber tone, "Poundage, we should proceed with great caution. If Mentor is near she would be able to detect our thoughts. And Mental may try to take control of one of US." "Hey, if you got something to say tell it to all of us, not just him." ,Paladin says as he flicks out his thumb at Poundage. " I could use some info on who we're up against, if you know any." Omega replies to Paladin, "I was not being secretive, Paladin. My comments WERE meant for the group as a whole--however, Poundage HAS been designated as leader for this mission which is why I was addressing him primarilly." The four peer down the dark passage in front of the them,wreckage everywhere. "As for who we are up against Paladin, I believe it to be two mutants named Mentor and Mental who, between them, have the powers of telepathy and mind control. The mutant up ahead of us is called Probe, but I do not believe he is with them. I believe he remains our ally." The younger hero reacts, "Hey hey hey, no need to get mad.I'm not as fast as the other heroes here, got to give me a sec to catch up with whatch your sayin'" Vengeance gives the young man a questioning look, "I am the hero called Vengeance.Who are you?" Paladin turns to the hero dressed in blue,snapping his fingers as he replies. "I'm Paladin,a god believer, he can strike you down just like that yea' know." He turns back to the others, "So what do you think we should do?" Suddenly Poundage looks at Paladin, "You'll find you don't want to be on my badside. We will inform you when you need to be informed. Like we want to give up the identity of our friend to a guy we barely know. I respect my friends enough for them to make that decision. So back off, BOY!" Poundage looks to Omega, "I think Master Minds thumb print is on all this. I know Probe and know we can trust him." Omega replies calmly, "Should we approach and speak with him? He and Imp were...very close..." Poundage gazes at Paladin for a moment and then yells down the pipe, "It's me Poundage. I have Omega, Vengeance, and an assclown with me. I'm sorry, some new guy." When no reply comes the group begins to make it's way down the tunnel.Every where they look they see carnage,twisted metal,pocked walls and a few bodies.Each hero begins to feel strange sensations,almost like a million tiny feathers rubbing against them everywhere,The further they travel down the tunnel the more powerful the feeling gets,causing the hair on their arms,necks to stand on end.Finally the tunnel opens on an abandoned subway station and in the far corner they see Probe on his knees,facing the body of Lieutenant in front of him.Probes eyes are closed,his face set in deep concentration.His head doesn't move but the heroes feel that power,almost like a gale force of wind rubbing against them.Probe speaks slowly but the four heroes hear the edge of anger in that voice. "I am all that is left.The rest are dead ... or gone ... " His eyes remained closed as he turns to face them, "Do not come any closer.You could be his pawns." Pieces of scrap metal suddenly raise from the ground around him and begin to spin and dance around him.

10:00-10:10 pm "Wow, Poundage is a freak, first he's a sensitive guy, then a mean one, he must be a sensitive jerk, of course I've cracked the code for the guy named Poundage." ,Paladin murmurs to himself,recalling when Poundage looked at the ceiling with his hand over his heart. "Man This 'Probe' must be really mad if he can do that!" ,Paladin says in amazement. "Are you sure he's on our side?" Vengeance takes a moment to concentrate,activating his magnetic abilities.Omega calmly pulls back his visor and calls to Probe, "Probe, we are pawns of no one. I know you've used your power to probe us--surely it tells you that we are not under any type of outside control." Eyes still closed,the metal scraps continue to dance in the air. "My abilities allow me to 'probe' physical objects in my range,not mental states." "Think about it--if we were, would we be talking and acting the way we are now?" ,Omega continues, in a calm and kind voice. "Probe, it really is ME. Omega. The other heroes here are also...themselves. Vengeance. And Poundage, your trusted friend." Omega looks to Poundage. There is a worried look in Omega's eyes. "I'm not sure if I'm getting through to him," Omega says softly. "He's obviously traumatized. I know, between the four of us, we can easily take him if it comes to a fight but..." Omega shakes his head, sadly. "For my part, I don't want to fight him. Still, I stand ready to do so if you feel we have no other choice." Poundage replies, "Omega, to attack Probe is not an option. To be honest I would attack anyone here but Probe first." Turning to Probe, "Probe you know me. If I were someone's pawn, you know I would be trying to fight it off more than obeying it." Omega looks at the mutant across the large room, "Probe, I don't want to fight you. I don't. Listen. Just calm down for a minute and listen to us. It's...it's Imp." At the mention of the name the scraps of metal stop thier spinning,hovering in mid-air. "They've done something to Imp. I believe that Mentor or Mental, or maybe both, may somehow be attacking her mind. Probe...we need your help. Imp needs your help." Omega stands by,the blue flames swirl around his body and he is obviously ready for combat, if combat should come--but there is also a sick look on his face at the prospect of possibly having to fight one of the few friends the heroes have left.Poundage takes a small step forward. "I know it has been a rough go lately but right now we need you and most importantly, Imp needs you. If you do not trust anyone here. One or all of us will leave. We have a Guardian badge and Imp is there. If there is no trust, we will leave this badge and allow you to use it. You owe Imp that. There is nothing we can do now except help Imp." Poundage lays the badge in the floor and looks again to Probe, "It's your call." He takes a step back,regrouping with the other heroes.Across the room Probe drops his face,the scraps of metal quiver slightly.He lightly brushes the side of Lietenant's mask then lightly lays the head on the floor.He jumps to his feet,his fist extended out from his body.He lets out a primal scream as he looks toward the ceiling.The metal shards soar up and clank off of the ceiling.Probe lowers his fist and begins to gain his composure,then begins to walk toward the heroes. "Take me to Imp.We have much to do."

10:10-10:20 pm Omega looks towards Lietenant, lying on the floor. He takes a moment to bow his head. "Another friend lost," Omega says quietly to himself. "Will this nightmare never end?" Omega looks to Probe. "Probe, we sent Imp away from Midville. She and several other heroes teleported to another city. I guessed that perhaps moving her far enough away might put her out of range of her attacker. But we don't yet know if the ploy worked. We should be able to find out if we go back to Guardian Base. And it should be easy enough to get to her location or to bring her back to Midville if we determine it is now safe to do so." Omega briefly describes how Imp was acting prior to being teleported away from the Base. "I couldn't be certain, but it sounded like she was trying to say the name...Mentor. And I'm guessing that Mentor and Mental were the ones responsible for what happened here. I knew Mentor was somewhat on the millitant side, but I never expected...this." Probe remains calm but his brow wrinkles over his closed eyes. "Yes ... both of them and others,but you don't understand.We mutants have just been handed a death sentence by the president of the most powerful nation on Earth.Did I expect this? No. Do I blame them? No..." There is a long moment of silence before Poundage speaks. "Ok Probe, but you'll have to come over hear and join hands with the rest of us. Once we get to the base, I'm sure they will transport you to New York if you want." Probe walks over,with a very regal bearing as Poundage looks to Paladin, "You have something to say to the group? Or just afraid to say what is on your mind, BOY!? By the way, was the "you haven't seen what I can do" statement a threat? Because if it was, I'm ready to find out what you can do whenever you are." "Got nothing for the group." ,Paladin says shaking his head slowly. "I never say what's on my mind, sometimes comes out wrong. I'm ready to find out what I can do too." ,he finishes trying to resist a smile.Poundage looks to the others, joins wrist,and says, "Do your thing Vengeance." Vengeance taps his badge and the group is teleported to the base HQ teleport pad.As the group begins to step from the pad Vengeance asks, "What exactly happened Probe?" Probe slumps over one of the chairs as he recites his story, "Imp visited us to warn us, reassure us.We had a heated debate,but nothing violent ... until the president spoke.As he went through his speech some of the mutants became angrier and angrier.When the speech was finished the main hall was filled with noise,all the mutants speaking,trying to get a point across.Suddenly a scream echoed above all the other noise,it was ... well ... I can't describe it.A scream like none I have ever heard.Then all of the sudden a blast was fired,and another and another.It was chaos,each mutant using their special talents to attack other mutants.I tried to speak,to interrupt but I began to have black-outs.I think this was when Mentor or Mental were playing with my mind.How long the battle lasted,I don't know.In between black-outs there would be less and less surviving mutants.Some ran away,others stayed and fought but I can't be sure who was fighting of their own free will and who was being controlled.Right before my last black-out I noticed Imp running form the tunnel and I had hoped she escaped to warn the Guardians,maybe get some aid.Finally I awoke from the last black-out to an empty hall,besides the wreckage and bodies.I don't know how long I sat there before you appeared." He shrugs his shoulders slightly then raises his head. "But the fight,the way it worked out ... almost like it was choreographed,planned out.But Mentor has lived amoung the mutants for a very long time.She knows us inside and out,and now I suspect she may have been picking our brains the whole time.How do we fight her,when she knows or has access to every action we may take?"

10:20-10:30 pm Omega replies, "That's a good question, Probe. And we have also learned that Guardian Base may have a singular weakness...a vulnerability to psychic forms of attack. Most of us have no defense against such attacks. And Mentor and Mental were also both amongst the Guardians and their allies during the fight in Colorado so there is no telling how much information that was 'sifted' from our minds. They could tear us apart just like they did the underground." Omega asks, "Do we have any idea about where Mentor or Mental might be now? I think the sooner we get them contained the better. For what it is worth, I do not agree with what the President said either and I find the mutant registration and detainment somewhat disgusting personally but whether Mentor and Mental are acting on their own or being influenced by an outside force, I'm afraid if they are left to their own devices it is only going to make matters worse." Probe responds, "They could be anywhere in the city,and the fact that they poured through my brain and probably Imp's they would have a good idea where we would begin looking." Omega thinks for a moment, then adds, "Which, more and more it looks like that's what somebody wants. If I didn't know better, I would think someone was trying to deliberatly PROVOKE a war." Vengeance looks thoughtful a moment, "Maybe we should think about who would benefet from a war.Mutants need no weapons.Maybe look into who has goverment contracts for weapons.It might be a dead end but it maybe worth looking into.Maybe its Mageneto,he has always wanted a mutant human war.Maybe the speech was the last straw.Probe do you know if Mental or Mentor knew Magneto ?" Probe looks at the floor and replies quietly. "Yes ... yes ... most of us in the underground have at least some knowledge of Magneto.He has recruited in the sewers." Omega looks to Probe, "Do you need medical attention, Probe? If you're hurt, the med labs here should be able to help you." Probe looks down at his dusty costume and replies, "No ... I'm fine ... I'm fine ...I'm fine? They had the opportunity to kill or seriously injure me,so why didn't they?" Omega then looks to the others, "So, what's our next move here, guys? I wonder if it's safe yet to bring Imp and the others back from New York?" Poundage quickly answers, "I think we should let Imp research in New York. Hell it may be a good idea for all of us to get away from here." Omega replies to Poundage, "Yeah, if we went to New York we would be out of range of the mental assaults. It might give us time to formulate a plan of attack--but more and more I'm inclined to agree with your line of thinking, actually. Our plan should be we find them, hit them fast and hard and take them out before they can do any more damage." Omega looks to Probe, "I'm sorry, Probe...I don't like talking about them this way, either. And I do understand what you said before about how the mutants are fighting for their lives. But it appears that Mentor and Mental have crossed the line and it falls to us to have to stop them. Of course, as I said, I'm still not completely convinced they are acting without some sort of outside influence. Maybe we SHOULD go to New York, that would at least give us breathing room and allow time to compare notes without the threat of mental attack." Probe steps forward, "Wait ... Wait! I understand the talk of hunting and hitting but these two right now know more about us than we know ourselves.If they have picked Imp's brain then they are armed with data and can make it extremely hard for us to find them.If they are being influenced by an outsider then that only adds to the possibilities of where they could be.On another front they more than likely know about New York and any other place we may choose to go." Omega nods and says, "Base, could you please inform Galen and the others that we have returned along with Probe?" After a few seconds Imp's voice is heard. "Hey guys! I want to come home now!"

10:30-10:40 pm Omega can't quite manage to contain a smile at hearing Imp's voice. "Imp!" he blurts out, "You're okay! I was really worried there for a..." Omega catches himself, "I mean...ahem...we can have the base teleport you back." Vengeance also smiles, "Good to hear your voice,Imp." "Hello 'Imp'." ,Paladin pipes in. "I'm not sure what's been happen but it looks sort of serious from inside the sewers. It was awesome!" Paladin looks around at each superhero's face, seeing a lot of glee in Omega's. "Who ever 'Mental and Mentor' is they must be really heinous if the all Guardians, and Poundage are after them. Oh, I'm sorry I forgot to introduce myself, I'm Paladin, the newcomer in the group, the odd man out if you would like to say." Paladin puts his hand out and shakes the air, as if shaking Imp's hand. "Nice to meet you. Hope we can meet face to face." The reply through the base is a healthy laugh, "Oh,so nice to meet you to Mr. Paladin." A large smile spreads on Probe's face also. "Imp,I was very concerned.How are you feeling?" Through the base speakers they hear a small giggle before Imp replies, "Wow,my own little fan club ... I feel fine,but really want to come back." Omega lowers his voice and looks to Vengeance and Poundage, in turn. Omega shrugs. "I suppose bringing them back here is as safe as anything else we could do at this point. I don't think any of us are going to be truly safe now no matter where we are from here on out." Omega thinks for a moment. He looks to Vengeance and Poundage in turn, "Both of you have some interesting theories on who may truly be behind the mutant revolt and I think we should definitely explore the Magneto angle, especially since he has recruited in the underground before." He is interrupted by Imp through the base, "Whispering in the corner doesn't help guys.Remember my pal,the base,can pick up that conversation.I am in as much danger here as I would be there,Mentor knows all about this base and I'm sure she has access to some sort of transportation,be it mechanical or mutant powered.The best bet would be for us to remain together ..." "Imp, Poundage here. I am not so sure that is a good idea. We were just discussing our options here. If we look for them, their mental powers will alert them before we even know they are near. A search and destroy mission would become a suicide mission if you ask me. Granted, I will do whatever majority thinks is right. As far as Midville goes, I don't feel safe any where in Midville. If their mind powers are good enough, they could be listening as we speak. By the way if you are, Fuck the both of you, you WILL pay for what you have done." He looks to the others, "Sorry, just a little frustrated right now. I hate feeling like my hands are tied. I would think the best way to stop them is to attack them in numbers and hope the ones that don't fall under their control can stop them. That's only if their powers aren't very strong. Damn it, is there really a good plan here?" Omega asks, "Would it be possible to develop any type of defenses against mental assault or these telepathic probes? The idea that our enemies may have access to all our thoughts and memories is...unsettling, to say the least." Omega pulls Vengeance and Poundage to the side and adds solemly, "And...at some point, we should probably get everyone together and talk about what we're going to do if one of more of us fall victim to a mind control attack. I don't think anyone should be compelled to give up any information that they don't want to, but I'm going to be completely honest with you guys and let you in on something that might later be important. I have a weakness which might allow them a greater chance at taking control of me. My powers sort of open me up to the cosmos, I guess you would say--allow me to know things and sense things, but the down side is that that 'openness' might also leave me more succebtible to mental attacks or control. I'm putting a lot of trust in you by telling you this--but I just want you to know now. Also, for my part, if you find yourselves in a situation where I'm being controlled in such a manner--take me out. I know I probably don't have to tell you that, but still. My powers aren't that great defensively but could cause a lot of damage from an offensive perspective. My Omega Flame blasts don't cause a whole lot of damage, but they are fairly accurate." Omega adds, "I hope it never comes to it. Maybe it won't. But...if it does, you two are amongst the most powerful heroes here. I just wanted you to know." Poundage answers with a chuckle, " "I've been looking for an excuse to take you out ever since that day in the park. " Vengeance looks at the two of them then asks the base, "Base, how is the rest of the world taking the news?" The mechanical voice answers, "... most civilized nations have followed the presidents example ... mutant registration is a global truth ... I have reports of riots in many major cities ... communications are becoming problematic,some mutants have attacked government infrastructure ... I expect heavy military response by morning ..." "Maybe we should contact the X-Men,they would know more of Magneto and possibly could give us some help." ,"Vengeance says,turning to the others in the room.Poundage nods in agreement, "I say we try to get a hold of Professer X. He may actually pinpoint the location of our two traitors. It is kind of wrong to probe like that." He glances at Probe, "No pun intended, but at this time, maybe we can talk Xavier into it. He also knows a lot about Magneto.I am trying to explore all angles. At this point, it could be any super villain we name. Hell they could be working alongside one another." From the doorway a deep voice is heard and the group turns to find Wraith standing there. "It will do no good to call Xavier.The X-men will be busy with their own problems and ... Xavier will be one of the first to fall."

10:40-11:00 pm Omega stands there for a moment, silently. Then, in frustration, he slams his fist into the wall. "No!" ,Omega calls out. "I WILL NOT accept that we can do nothing to alter these events, that we must simply stand around and wait for death to claim us all! If this future of yours cannot be prevented,Wraith,then why are you here? Why are any of us here? We can either just give up and accept that these things are going to happen no matter what we do or we can at least TRY to alter the shape of the future!" The blue flames of the Omega Force flicker around him and seem to intensify and grow darker. Omega's very voice seems to alter a bit as he speaks, "The question must be answered...is the future inevitable? Yes, the future IS inevitable. But..it is not immutable." Omega points towards Wraith as his voice completely alters its tone, growing deeper and sounding almost otherworldly, "The steps toward his future ARE in motion...however, the direction CAN be changed..." The flames subside and Omega seems himself once more. He looks to Wraith. "I know what you would say, Wraith. Perhaps the Omega of YOUR past asked the same questions; took the same actions; did EXACTLY the same things that I am doing or that I am GOING to do. Perhaps this is even true. But I can't accept thinking that, no matter what we do, it's not going to matter. I WON'T accept that. And I don't think anyone else here is going to accept it either. We have to move beyond this defeatist path-not-taken wrinkle in time philosophy. My vote, for what it's worth...I agree with Poundage. We contact Xavier. We offer our help to him and ask for his help in return. And yeah, maybe that's a futile move but then again, maybe it's NOT. The future is what we make of it; it's not written in stone and it CAN be altered." Wraith simply looks at Omega silently,then lowers his gaze.Poundage turns an angry look at Paladin, "Paladin, to say that the scene in the sewer was awesome, is totally idiotic. I think you should think of a different way to phrase it. Imp and Probe's friends lying in the floor dead is not awesome. Our friends home invaded and destroyed, again not awesome." Paladin turns to Poundage "Ok lets see...." He takes a moment to think. "The site was AWESOME!" ,Paladin screams, with a jolly face on. "Is that better?" ,he asks and gives a little chuckle.Omega's jaw drops and he stands there for a moment, rendered temporarily speechless.That chuckle is paused quickly when Wraith strides over,his hair flipping behind him.He steps to Paladin,small tendrils of darkness curling from various points around his body.His hand shoots out and grasps the boy's costume at the chest,lifting Paladin into the air.Wraith's dark eyes bore into Paladin's,causing the boy to squirm.Paladin puts on a serious face, "But seriously I'm really hurting for Imp, she sounds fun, and Probe I feel your pain." Finally, Omega speaks to Paladin in a measured tone, "Paladin, the scene was hardly 'awesome', and certainly no reason for joyful expression. What we witnessed down there was horrific and deeply troubling. Lest you forget, many of the dead in the underground were our teammates...our friends. This is made even worse by the fact that we are not allowed the luxury of time to greive for them properly." Omega glances towards Poundage, sensing the anger growing within him at Paladin's latest flip comment. He turns his attention back towards Paladin, "I would not be so quick to provoke Poundage, Paladin. I admit that when I first met him I made the mistake of misjudging him but he has stood with us as one of our strongest and most trusted allies. He, too, has suffered much loss--including that of his close friend, Scar during a recent altercation in Colorado. We have all been through a lot and have shouldered the burden of much grief and pain. And while we would welcome you amongst us to fight by our side, do not make the mistake of belittling our grief or the losses we have suffered. We shoulder a heavy burden and it is not one to be taken lightly." Still dangling in Wraith's grasp Paladin replies, "I think your mistaken big time Omega, note this, they were YOUR friends, and I never met them. I sort of understand that you all are going through a hard time, but when seeing stuff like that, even if someone gets hurt, its hard to suppress the excitement and danger you could be getting into. Being the age that I am, it puts more fun in life, than a 40 year old guy like yourself, and Poundage, well I'm not really sure about him.Anyway, as of about 2 hours ago, I met you guys, the Guardians, Wraith, and learned yet very little of anyone, what am I supposed to do? I'm not trying to tick anyone off, Not even Lord Galen..." Paladin cuts off trying to rack his brain of anything else he wishes to say. "You should remember what it was like to be a young superhero, thinking your the baddest.Well thats how I feel right now, being a superbeing, having amazing powers that are very new to you, and yet not knowing how to use them...." Slowly Wraith lowers the boy to the ground,then moves his face close to Paladin's. "I have seen much death in my time and I will see much more before my time is up.Never have I found it to be a joke.I advise you to change your attitude toward such death and destruction ... or I CAN change it for you." Paladin lets out a sigh of relief then turns to the whole group. "I think we can change the future, Mentor and Mental don't know about me yet do they?" It is Probe who answers first, "At this point we can't be sure what they know and what they don't know.Our best bet right now is to assume they know everything." Paladin then turns to Wraith, "You can see the future? Was I in it? What happens?" The dark tendrils of energy continue to curl around Wraith as he replies. "I don't see the future ... I AM the future.I was sent back here by mistake and am cursed to watch the darkness of my past envelope this world." The heroes stare at the hero from the future and he steps away from Paladin.The silence is broken when Imp's voice is heard. "OK guys enough of the macho chest thumping,I want to come back." Poundage says, "Imp, as far as coming back, it is not my decision. I stand behind any decision you make. I am not in charge of anyone here." Vengeance enters the conversation, "Well if Professor X is one of the first targets maybe we should all head to NY and try to talk to him in person.That way if there is an attack maybe we can help the X-Men.Or if a battle has already occured maybe we can get some kind of clues or info from any wreackage that may be around.Xavier could be the key to our future not Wraith's past." Omega looks to Vengeance, "That's right. Xavier IS based in New York, isn't he? And the secondary base there grants us instantaneous travel between the two cities. That might be something we could use to our advantage. Maybe we should offer Xavier's group use of the NYC base?" Vengeance nods, "What do you think Imp?Shall we meet you in NY?" Thers is silence before she replies, "I would prefer coming back to Midville ... the city needs us now.But can see the adavntages of temporarily using this base as HQ until we get things figured out.Perhaps we should check with Lord Galen?"

11:00-11:10 pm Omega nods. "Base, could you please ask Lord Galen to meet with us?" The base replies, "... Lord Galen will be up in a moment ..." Omega adds, as an afterthought, "Galen should make the final decision regarding what the Guardians should do, but I believe he will take everyone's opinions into consideration." Omega glances once again towards Paladin. Omega sighs and shakes his head.Vengeance looks around at the others, "Maybe some of you can stay here in Midville and a few of us head up to New York. You all can try to save Midville; I'll try to save the world. I'll contact an old acquantance of mine, MindWarp. Last I heard she was living in New York and had a few good connections." Poundage stands,fist clenching and unclenching,looks over at Vengeance. "I agree that if Xavier is the first target, we should let him know and maybe get him into hiding. If Xavier is the first target, that may even point more towards Magneto. Now if you guys will excuse me a moment. Please excuse my actions as well." His hands pause in there motion as he turns a hard gaze at Paladin. "I need to teach someone some respect." He takes a couple of mighty steps,grabs Paladin by his costume and picks him up. "Now listen mother fucker, I want you to know that you should take these actions a little more serious." He tosses the younger hero to the ground and quickly places a boot on his chest. "How about I squash you like a bug and see just how awesome death is at a young age! Inexperience or not, death is never awesome. I think you need to show a little respect and apologize to us all for what you have said about our fallen comrades. That is unless you have super strength, impenetrable armor, or some kind of mind control. If not, your death will be much more gruesome. Or should I say awesome? If you don't shape up you're liable to get thrown out of this base. Not that I can give that order, but if your attitude doesn't change to where I can be in the same room and not want to beat you to a pulp, I will give the others a choice, me or you. What do you think the choice would be? And I do believe given the circumstances, I think I could survive on the surface longer." His boot pushes into Paladin's chest,Poundage looks up at the others. "Knowing that I am a bit of an asshole, I may have to separate myself from this fucking idiot. This means whatever you guys decide, if assface is in , it will be without me. I don't want it to be this way, but I didn't become Poundage to kill those who claim to be heroes. If this guy keeps up with disrespecting us and the others, I am afraid this may happen. That would ruin me as a hero. I would fall into a massive depression. Not that I would miss PileOfShit, I mean Paladin. I would just be so dissapointed in myself." He looks down to face Paladin, "Lots of people here have had a conflict with me at some point, but we were able to move on and RESPECT one another. If it is sincere, not like the last one where you said "I'm sorry" and then proceeded to tell us how to rationalize our fallen friends as awesome, I am willing to accept your apology and fight alongside you, but the next time you disrespect any of our fallen heroes or my friends as you did today, I promise you will cease to exist." He lifts his boot from Paladin's chest,then turns his back to speak to the others. "I am terribly sorry about that. If any of you think that he was not entirely disrespectful, then I am sorry you had to see that. I will go with Vengeance as long as no one has a need for me here. I think Xavier will be a huge key in any progress we make. Base, can you contact the X-men to see if we can arrange an emergency meeting." The mechanical voices answers, "... initiating ..." Paladin slowly gets up,pats himself down and crosses his arms. Paladin stands idly, thinking over Omega's, Poundage's and Wraith's remarks.Looking to Wraith, Poundage says, "I think because you know the most of what is to come, you should go with us to help explain to Xavier." Wraith gives Poundage a long look,then taps his staff on the ground. "It will do no good,but I will go with you to New York." The door swishes open and Lord Galen strides in.He looks around at the group then gives Omega a questioning glance.Omega replies, "I too believe we should go to New York. Perhaps we should all go. I think Vengeance and Poundage are on the right track. I'd like to go with them at any rate. I know we are pledged to protect Midville but we must protect the world as a whole if we can and right now, going to New York might be the best thing we can do for Midville anyway. Besides, if something does happen here we can use the teleportation device to get back in a hurry if need be."

11:10-11:20 pm Poundage turns his gaze on Wraith. "Sorry Wraith, but all you keep telling us is 'that's not going to help'. Then when we ask for suggestions from you, 'all I know is my past.'. Well if you can't give us any ideas, stop telling us that ours won't work. If Xavier is one of the first targets, by stopping that, we change the timeline, correct?" "I agree with Poundage." Omega replies and offers , "I don't come from the future, Poundage and my powers aren't exactly like Scars were in that I can forsee the future--but they do give me some insight. It has been revealed to me that the future CAN be altered. I believe that IF we had succeeded in Colorado which, unfortunately we didn't, then that would have been enough to alter the timestream. If we can stop a big enough event--like the attack on Xavier--from succeeding then I think that might be enough to alter things. It's too late to stop the events of Wraith's future from beginning as they have already begun; but perhaps we can yet stem the tide. In any case, it's just as Poundage says--we can either stand around and do nothing or we can at least try. I vote for trying." Wraith raises his head,squares his shoulders and replies in a measured but calm voice. "You fools will not listen. IT IS MY PAST ... 50 YEARS in my past ... freaking Dark Ages ..." His pupils seem to expand,darkness covering his entire eye. "What you fail to understand,the future can be altered.It will twist and turn except for one point ... The point where 3 people were sent back in time,locking that event into this future.IT MUST HAPPEN BECAUSE I STAND BEFORE YOU ... this war isn't beginning,it has begun.Some of you here won't survive the month.Others might survive the first year.The war is here it is now and it will be like no war before it." Poundage whirls to face Paladin, "I think we are all still waiting on this apology, and nothing like the last one. Don't stand back there and pout, stand up like a true hero and admit your wrong doings." Paladin return's Poundage's gaze. "You already accepted my apology. do you not remember? (Quote)'I am willing to accept your apology'(Unquote). And it also seems that you don't believe me as a true hero so why should I stand up like one? Also I'm not pouting, I'm recalling." "I said I would accept your apology. Not I accept. You haven't given an apology for me to accept. The only apology I heard was the one that you continued to tell jokes about afterwards." ,Poundage throws back quickly.Vengeance decides to change the subject, "Well if we are going to NY we should get some sleep get our streagth back." Omega replies, "Your suggestion concerning rest and recovery is a sound one, but we may not have the time." Poundage looks a round at the others in the large hangar. "Since Wraith does not seem to think it will help, if anyone here knows most of what he has said in the past, can they accompany us to New York. Wraith seems content with moping around being a negative nelly and waiting for the world to end again." He looks at Wraith, "Saw it once, and is ready for one more time." Omega whirls and locks eyes with Wraith, "You said Xavier was among 'the first to fall' and the revolt has already begun so that means we don't have much time, right? How long? How long do we have to intervene?" Wraith clutches his staff tightly,but replies calmly, "If I knew the details,the times and days I would've already told those dates.In MY past Xavier is the first 'mega-mutant' taken down,the first high profile rebel gotten early in the first weeks of the war.It only angers most mutants and causes the rebellion to get stronger.There was no evidence the government was involved in the attack on Xavier,but the records of what evidence there was ended up lost and destroyed." His eyes turn to catch Poundages, "I am a Guardian.I haven't mopped,I am as ready to go into action as you are ... be it here or in NY.A Guardian never shirks his duty."

11:10-11:20 pm Poundage turns his gaze on Wraith. "Sorry Wraith, but all you keep telling us is 'that's not going to help'. Then when we ask for suggestions from you, 'all I know is my past.'. Well if you can't give us any ideas, stop telling us that ours won't work. If Xavier is one of the first targets, by stopping that, we change the timeline, correct?" "I agree with Poundage." Omega replies and offers , "I don't come from the future, Poundage and my powers aren't exactly like Scars were in that I can forsee the future--but they do give me some insight. It has been revealed to me that the future CAN be altered. I believe that IF we had succeeded in Colorado which, unfortunately we didn't, then that would have been enough to alter the timestream. If we can stop a big enough event--like the attack on Xavier--from succeeding then I think that might be enough to alter things. It's too late to stop the events of Wraith's future from beginning as they have already begun; but perhaps we can yet stem the tide. In any case, it's just as Poundage says--we can either stand around and do nothing or we can at least try. I vote for trying." Wraith raises his head,squares his shoulders and replies in a measured but calm voice. "You fools will not listen. IT IS MY PAST ... 50 YEARS in my past ... freaking Dark Ages ..." His pupils seem to expand,darkness covering his entire eye. "What you fail to understand,the future can be altered.It will twist and turn except for one point ... The point where 3 people were sent back in time,locking that event into this future.IT MUST HAPPEN BECAUSE I STAND BEFORE YOU ... this war isn't beginning,it has begun.Some of you here won't survive the month.Others might survive the first year.The war is here it is now and it will be like no war before it." Poundage whirls to face Paladin, "I think we are all still waiting on this apology, and nothing like the last one. Don't stand back there and pout, stand up like a true hero and admit your wrong doings." Paladin return's Poundage's gaze. "You already accepted my apology. do you not remember? (Quote)'I am willing to accept your apology'(Unquote). And it also seems that you don't believe me as a true hero so why should I stand up like one? Also I'm not pouting, I'm recalling." "I said I would accept your apology. Not I accept. You haven't given an apology for me to accept. The only apology I heard was the one that you continued to tell jokes about afterwards." ,Poundage throws back quickly.Vengeance decides to change the subject, "Well if we are going to NY we should get some sleep get our streagth back." Omega replies, "Your suggestion concerning rest and recovery is a sound one, but we may not have the time." Poundage looks a round at the others in the large hangar. "Since Wraith does not seem to think it will help, if anyone here knows most of what he has said in the past, can they accompany us to New York. Wraith seems content with moping around being a negative nelly and waiting for the world to end again." He looks at Wraith, "Saw it once, and is ready for one more time." Omega whirls and locks eyes with Wraith, "You said Xavier was among 'the first to fall' and the revolt has already begun so that means we don't have much time, right? How long? How long do we have to intervene?" Wraith clutches his staff tightly,but replies calmly, "If I knew the details,the times and days I would've already told those dates.In MY past Xavier is the first 'mega-mutant' taken down,the first high profile rebel gotten early in the first weeks of the war.It only angers most mutants and causes the rebellion to get stronger.There was no evidence the government was involved in the attack on Xavier,but the records of what evidence there was ended up lost and destroyed." His eyes turn to catch Poundages, "I am a Guardian.I haven't mopped,I am as ready to go into action as you are ... be it here or in NY.A Guardian never shirks his duty."

11:30-11:40 pm Vengeance gales over at Paladin, "I say we make Paladin a casualty of this war.I have tried to ignore the mentaly handicaped but the more he talks the more I wonder whose side this guy is on. We do not really know him,maybe we should get him out of the base before we discuss any type of plan." Paladin sucks in a large amount of air before he begins to speak. "Over the past few hours I have been crude and unconcerned about your feelings. Could you all search down in your hearts to forgive me?" He lowers his head and waits. Poundage looks at Wraith, "Sorry Wraith, but every time we mention something, you reply negatively. I just wish every now and then you would reassure us with a positive attitude. I didn't mean any personal attack, but I am tired of all the negativity. I know you have been through and seen alot that we haven't. That is why we look to you for reassurance. I am ready for New York when you are." Wraith nods then slowly steps back toward the wall.Poundage then turns to Vengeance. "Vengeance, if we decide to rest, so be it. Some of us are still hurt from Colorado. Wraith, can you have the base contact the X-men? I asked it to, but I am not a Guardian. See if we can get a meeting now or if they want to wait till morning time. I say we may want to bring him back here. If what Wraith says is true, I say we bring him back here for hiding. That is if he agrees." It is the base that replies, "... I have tried multiple communication attempts ... there are system failures in the network ..." Lord Galen says, "I'm going to New York." He takes a quick glance around at the other heores then leaves the hangar.

11:40-11:50 pm Lord Galen walksleaves the hangar,the other heroes begin to follow.Vengeance glances back, "Are we going to take the Striker to NY?" They turn into the HQ and one by one step on the teleport pad.They appear ,one by one,inthe small NY HQ and again follow Lord Galen.The end up in a small medlab with two beds,crowded by the remaining heroes.Lord Galen quickly order s the base to find the source of the power failures. Imp quickly taps some keys as she rattles a list, "I have natural failures in upper Pennsylvania ... power failure in a transponder just outside of NY ... grid overload in the city and surrounding area ... the government has altered access codes on multiple satelite broadcast platforms,though the base has accessed some of these ... the system nationwide is taking a lot more traffic than it was supposed to handle." Vyra chirps in, and says, "I hate to be like this, but time is of the essence. We need to come to a conclusion fast on wether we stay or wether we approach Xavier. If you can't come to a descision as a group, then make one individually. As for me, I plan to warn him, even if I do it alone. " Omega looks to Vyra, "You're right, Vyra--time is of the essence. We need to get to Xavier quickly. Does anyone here know his exact location?" He looks around the room,only one set of eyes catch his,Wraith's. "I'm not sure of the exact location,but do know it is outside of the city,to the north somewhere." Omega looks to Galen, "I suggest we head to Xavier's location immediately if you have no objections." Omega walks over to Afterburn and places his hand lightly on her back. "The scene in the underground was...disturbing," Omega tells her.She stares into his eyes,then glances over at Imp.She's intent on the computer screen but turns a moment and stares at Probe.He stands near the door,his head slumped toward his chest,eyes closed.He doesn't look up but smiles and seems to wiggle a couple of fingers.It's Imp's turn to smile,then she taps lightly on the desk.Probe nods slightly then he steps to the center of the room. "I don't know about you guys but I need some rest.I only counted 2 bedrooms and the two beds here.I'm going to crash ... wake me if something happens."

11:50-12:00 pm Omega looks to Wraith, "Wraith. What you said before was correct. We...or should I say, I...have not listened closely enough. I understand that the events now happening occurred before you were even born. I know that the history of the future, like all histories, is written by the victors and therefore, the history you know may be different from the events now unfolding before our eyes. I have acted unfairly towards you, Wraith. You are right that some of us here likely will not last out the month; perhaps not even the remainder of the day--but I know nothing else to do but to move forward and hope that we might somehow, someway make a difference. We are all Guardians now and, as you said, a Guardian never shirks his duty. For what it is worth, I will stand with you till the end--whatever end that may be." Wraith steps over,places a hand on Omega's shoulder. "I appreciate the support.I have and will continue to do my best." Omega looks to Galen, "Wraith has given us a rough location of Xavier's base of operations. Maybe there's some way to get a more precise location? Is there any way we can contact him?" Imp's fingers fly over the keyboard, "Trying all known connection paths ... I have heavy chatter on the military bands ..." Omega paces a little, "I know the base in Midville facilitated contact with Xavier but...is there a more convential method?" Omega thinks for a moment, "I wonder...this is a long shot but, it might be worth a shot...base, is there a telephone listing for a Charles Xavier or a Professor Charles Xavier in the New York phone directory or directories for outlying areas?" Omega shrugs, "I know. Like I said, a long shot but..." Vengeance quickly puts in, "Base,check a listing for the Xavier school for the Gifted also." Imp quickly starts spitting out facts, "... found him ... unlisted number ... connection full of interrupts ... ok ... digging through phone company records ... ok got it,Greymalkin Lane.The base is printing maps ..." Vyra steps over quickly, "Computer, can you give us Xavier's exact position?" The base replies, "... am unable to track individuals unless they bear a Guardian badge ..." Poundage looks around at the gathered heroes. "I'm ready whenever you guys are. We should try to keep close to a Guardian badge. If the local law enforcement sees us or the military, they will probably engage us." From her seat at the console Imp says, "... military chatter is increasing ..." Poundage glances at her then at Probe, "Are you sure you won't go? You may be able to find this base quicker than any of us. But I guess if Omega can find it, we would be ok without you." Probe nods slightly, "I'll come ..." His fingers dance little taps and he smiles slightly.Omega stands quietly,concentrating on the address,Xavier.Paladin tugs on his sleeve, "Does it really matter if I go?" Paladin asks. "And Xavier is who?" Omega squints as he feels a rush of energy,a darkness and emptiness.Imp suddenly shouts, "... SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED ... can't decipher the military chatter but it is off the scale ... reports of massive equipment failure in communications arrays all around New York City ... people we have an EMP north of NYC ... SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED ..."

12:00-12:10 am "Oh gods!" ,Vyra exclaims. "Its Xavier, isn't it? We're too late again, aren't we?" ,she asks glancing at Imp.Omega mutters to himself, "I do not sense him. Only a rush of energy...darkness..." Omega speaks up a bit, "Communications disruption? An EMP? No. They wouldn't. They couldn't. Could they?" Omega looks around at the other heroes. "What we are witnessing is consistent with the detonation of a nuclear weapon." Imp quickly replies, "Let's not jump to conclusions.I'm still trying to go over the data.I am not reading any spikes in the surrounding radiation..." Omega speaks up, "We need to get confirmation on this but if the institute HAS been the target of a nuclear strike then it may be unsafe for us to go there. I THINK my powers might protect me from the radiation--at least enough to risk aerial recon. Is there anyone here who knows for certain that they would be protected? I suggest one or two of us go and have a look from the air--if our suspicions are confirmed, we return here and regroup and; if not, then we can contact Xavier as planned. But, I think it is all too obvious what has happened and I hole little hope that we are wrong." "I am capable of generating a Force Field," Vyra replies to Omega. "But I am unsure if it is powerful enogugh to block radiation." Vengeance pulls out a celphone, "Well guys I am going to meet a friend there." he turns and holds a quiet conversation as Lord Galen speaks. "Let's take the Striker to the mansion now. We must see what happened." Omega looks to Galen, "I didn't realize this base also had a Striker. That should afford us a bit of extra protection. Vyra might be able to provide extra protection for us by surrounding either the Striker or us with a force field, if it's not equipped with one of its own." He looks to Galen and nods, "Lead the way." Suddenly Imp shouts, "WAIT! I'm getting something...it's being broadcast on all frequencies..." She taps a button and the gathered heroes hear a deep voice coming through the base speakers. "...approximately midnight the war was taken to the tyrants and non-believers.The government declared war on mutants earlier tonight,but we of the Mutant Liberation Front could not sit and wait for their aggression.In a show of force we have attacked some government sympathizers.Let this be a warning to all 'Norms' and sypathizers,the Mutant Liberation Front will retaliate.Mutants Unite !!"

12:10-12:20 am Omega mutters, "Good lord...does this mean? Mutants attacking other mutants? The Mutant Liberation Front attacked Xavier's school?" Lord Galen sports a blank stare, "I cannot believe this is happening." Poundage glances around at the others, "Just what we need, aggressive rebels. Now what do we do?" Omega looks thoughtful, "This whole thing is beginning to look more and more like a set up to me. First the mutants in the underground and now Xavier. And the attacks seemed planned, not like something that was just thrown together in the wake of what the President said earlier tonight. The 'MLF' may not be exactly what they claim. At any rate, it doesn't matter WHO attacked Xavier's at this point--we should still go and check it out. There might be survivors. Maybe we could help them. And if it was the MLF, as opposed to the government, then maybe it wasn't a nuke after all--though still a powerful bomb by all indications." Omega thinks for a moment then adds, "Even if they didn't initiate the attack, the government types are likely to be swarming all over that place by now too. I wonder how they will react to us showing up? We're still the good guys, right?" Lord Galen strides forward, "Let's get to Xavier. He and his people will need all the help they can get." Vengeance looks at the others then steps out of the room.Vyra hangs her head low. "That will accomplish nothing..." Imp taps some keys then wiggles them oddly. "Tracking multiple high speed aircraft converging on the area ... the air force is on scene ... oh and hey the Striker III only carries 6 ... I'm staying ..." Lord Galen turns to leave then orders, "Base,see what you can dig up on this group taking responsibility. We need to know who they are." Imp quickly replies, "On it ... they are registered in most international intelligence agencies as a mutant terrorist cell ... still trying to pry up more but they are NY based ..."

12:20-12:30 pm Lord Galen asks, "Anyone want to go with me to the mansion? I'm going now." "I will stay here with Imp. If you guys need help, just call. That is, unless you guys want me to go. Those military planes may think the Striker is a threat.", Poundage says. The doctor nods her agreement, "I'll be staying also." Probe nods his head toward Imp ,"I'll stay here with Imp." Lord Galen orders, "Base prepare Striker III to take me to Xavier's school." As he walks out,five of the others follow;Vyra,Specter,Afterburn,Omega and Wraith. "I'll run the ship scanners from here ... I'll try to track a course to miss the air patrols so it may get a bit choppy up there ..." ,Imp calls out to them.The female doctor looks over at the teen age boy in the orange costume. "Are you sure your ok? I'm a doctor let me take a look at you." The boy only nods a negative, "I just need a little rest.Then Imp and I would like to return to Midville.I need to find any of the survivors from the underground."

12:30-12:40 pm "Probe, I would like to help you guys find any survivors. If the others face opposition, let me know, I will try to help. Also let me know when everyone is going back." Poundage says as lies down on the bed "I am going to get some rest since there is nothng I can do." From the corner Imp tries to keep the group up to date. "... I have military everywhere ... crap,crap ... dip ... ummmm ... guys they have been caught ..."The heroes hear another voice through the base "Guardian craft,this is the United States Airforce.You are violating restricted airspace.Two aircraft will escort you to the ground where General Yeager is waiting..."

12:40-12:50 am Omega quickly speaks up, "They identified us as a Guardian craft. They know who we are and they still locked on missles. They mean to shoot us out of the sky anyway if we don't comply." Paladin looks back and forth, "What should we do? How sturdy is this craft?" He begins to tap on the Striker's walls.Lord Galen answers, "I'm not walking into a trap and I will not be a captive. Everyone gather round me and hold on. I will use the badge to get us back to the base." "We can't give up on Xavier so easily!" ,Vyra protests,looking quickly at Omega.He speaks up, "Galen...I'm forced to agree with Vyra. YOU are the leader here and I will go along with whatever you want to do, but consider: we don't yet know their intentions; they could have shot us down easily already if they wished to do so. Also, they have identified us as a Guardian craft so they know who we are and where to find us. Perhaps we should chance going down there and sharing what we have learned? But if we do then I think it would be wise to alert the others to our perdicament...we might be needing a rescue." Imp's voice is heard, "We're aware,and I agree with your logic Omega" Omega grins but begins to rub his chin. "Then again, maybe not. It's just so hard to know who to trust right now...and who not to...but I too am reluctant to give up on Xavier and his students. Still, as I said, you are the leader here and we will follow whatever course of action you belive to be the wisest." Vyra suddenly has an idea. "Computer, what is the maximum speed of these aircraft? Can we out run them? Those who can fly, we can take out the missles before they fire on the Stryker." Lord Galen stares at her, "Vyra, do you intend to take on the entire military? Not possible.Base help Vyra out here. What are the odds of us escaping these jets and missiles?" The base responds, "... our maximum speed will not allow us to outrun the aircraft ... evading missiles is not possible considering the number of enemy weapons platforms ..." Lord Galen glances out the front windshield as another fighter screams past the much smaller Striker. "I will make this democratic, who wishes to land and speak with this general and who opposes? I'm all for helping Xavier too but if it cant be done this way there is always another." Specter is the first to speak,his arms folded at his chest. "I am a mutant and WILL NOT go down,but I think at least the Guardians should land ..." As he finishes he 'melts' into and through his seat.In just seconds he is gone,floating somewhere behind them. The fighter pilot's voice is heard again. "Guardian aircraft this is your second warning.Allow the fighters to escort you to the ground or risk being fired upon.You have entered restricted airspace."

12:50-1:00 am The group continues to listen to the events aboard the Striker 3."I'll go with you," Vyra says abruptly, abandoning her ideas of escaping the military threat.Omega looks around at the group. He concentrates for a moment, allowing the blue flames of the Omega Force surround him and trying to get a feel for the right thing to do.He doesn't notice much difference and he doesn't feel like landing would be dangerous. "I believe we should go down and speak with this general. Galen is right. We can't fight the entire military. We can't outrun them--and if we teleport out of here, what kind of message does that send to them? We are still heroes. Guardians. We have done nothing wrong. Perhaps we should see if we can make an ally out of the general waiting below--right now, we certainly need all the allies we can get." Lord Galen replies, "Omega, I agree we need allies. But who is to say we will not be prisoners as soon as we land." The room falls silent as Lord Galen ponders the situation. "Alright we will land. Base, keep an eye out with the Striker and keep us covered. Everyone else, be ready for a rescue if need be." Omega nods to Galen, "Whatever happens down there we will face it together." He then adds, "Everyone stick close together so that we can maintain physical contact and blink out of there if need be." He speaks toward the walls, "Imp...if our back up plan doesn't work, we may be needing you and the others to pull off one of those 'daring, last minute rescues' should this thing go sour." Her voice is heard, "Roger that ... good luck down there." Lord Galen speaks next,replying to the fighters. "We will land and speak to the General. Unlock your missiles and guide us in." After a few tense moments Imp says, "OK,they are on the ground...now we play the waiting game."

1:00-1:10 am Probe looks around at the others,the apprehension showing on his face.Imp taps some keys then says. "Still no contact with the others ... I have increased traffic on the military networks and an increase in satellite communications also."

1:10-1:20 am The small group waits with anticipation with no news from the group in New York.Probe walks over and lightly massages Imp's shoulders.

1:20-1:30 am There is still no word from the heroes at the mansion and the doctor gets up and begins to pace. "This is nerve racking ... but the base would let us know if they were in trouble,wouldn't it ?" ,she asks.Imp reaches up to tap lightly on Probe's as he squeezes her shoulder. "Of course ... maybe it taking this long is a good sign ?"

1:30-1:40 The heroes watch the screen as the members at the mansion slowly make their way back into the Stiker III.Galen enters the Striker. He is feeling very discouraged. "Base, how are things in Midville?" The base replies, "... all things considered,things are calm in Midville ..." Galen continues, "Imp,we are heading back. Any news or breakthroughs? A little good news would help. Base keep track of military movement and what intelligence you can here. The aide told the General that 2 of them are missing. I want to know 2 of what?" Once on board the Striker, Omega tells Galen about his vision. "I received a mental picture of a satellite...missiles being launched towards the Earth...two are missing...two missiles perhaps? But...the aide said the satellite was down for repair...I wonder--maybe the missles weren't actually 'launched' so much as they were 'stolen'? IF that is the case then I think we have a good idea who is behind the theft." The base is heard, "... I will do some searching ..." Vyra asks, "Is there anyway we can be sure there were no survivors? Does the Stryker have that capability? Because I swear to the gods I will not leave anyone in the rubble to die if I can save them." Wraith steps over and lightly lays a hand on Vyra's shoulder as Imp is heard. "I have been using the ship sensors since you all flew into range,the complete time you have been talking.And I am sorry to say I can not pick up any signs of life except those of the military roaming the site."

1:40-1:50 pm Imp smiles, "I have them returning ... I wonder what they found out." She turns back and begins to tap the keys on her keyboard.

1:50-2:00 am Paladin moves over to a chair as Poundage speaks. "Vengeance's friend will be a lot of help in the search. I am sure when they return, they will have some info on the mansion for us." Imp glances at Probe then continues to tap keys on the keypad. "Meanwhile I'll dig into the scans we got from the Striker II while the others were out meeting the General.

2:00 am-? Poundage looks around at the others. "I think we all should get some rest." Imp slowly rises and stretches, "... mmm ... yea sleep sounds good ... Big B,continue monitoring and run a series four on the Striker III ..." The heroes each wander the small base,finding a chair here,a cot there before settling in for the night.

2:00-10:00 am Paladin sleeps.

10:00-10:10 am Paladin slowly wakes,ready to get back to Midville.

10:10-10:20 pm Paladin begins to wander the halls of the small base.

10:20-10:30 am Paladin continues to wander the halls until he hears voices in the kitchen.He stops,debating if he should enter.

10:30-10:40 am Paladin pauses at the door,listening in to the conversation inside.Lord Galen takes a sip of the steaming coffee, "I'm still a little groggy. This coffee should help. So what is the consensus? I understand Vengeance and a friend have gone to talk with a reporter about yesterdays events. Also let me apologize for sleeping so late. I myself am stumped as to our next course of action. Why does everyone feel the urgency to get back to Midville?" Omega replies, "I think the Doc is anxious to get back to her clinic and honesetly I'm not sure there is much more we can--or will be allowed--to do here for the moment. If you feel some should stay here, we could split up. But I think the best leads we have right now are still in Midville. Maybe we could try to follow up on those weapons suppliers? I know it's not much to go on but I guess we have to take what we can get at this point." Vyra looks sullen, "Omega's right. There is nothing we can do here. There's hardly anything we can do anywhere. How can we save a world that hates us?" The doctor steps over to her and lightly rubs her shoulder, "The same way you save a world that loves you,with heart and determination." She turns to look at Lord Galen, "I'm just anxious to return so I can get the clinic open.I have a feeling I will be seeing quite a few patients today,possibly some of those mutants from the underground.If they were hurt during the battle they may feel more comfortable at my clinic than turning themselves over to military at the medical stations."

10:40-10:50 am Paladin slips into the kitchen as Lord Galen has a seat with his coffee.Galen takes another sip, "Doctor Jill,I totally agree with you for once. I also agree with everyone else. My question is, are we sure there is nothing more to do here? I don't think I truly have any answers to anything that has gone down here.You guys go ahead and head back to Midville. I will join you shortly. I still need some answers here." Omega looks to Galen, "Alright. Afterburn, Vyra, the Doc and I will head back to Midville. The doctor needs to check on her clinic and maybe the rest of us can try to find some answers there. That might be best, to try to approach this on two fronts while there is still enough of us to go around. Good luck here, Galen and be careful--our list of friends seems to be growing smaller by the day." Paladin takes a seat close to Galen. "I'll stay with Galen, if he doesn't mind of coarse." Jill steps over to address him. "This situation is much larger than any of us.We are not going to figure it out in a matter of hours.This has developed over years and decades,to think we can solve it that quickly would be wishful thinking." She pats him on the back and the group,excluding Lord Galen and Paladin,leave the kitchen,on the way to the HQ.

10:50-11:00 am Lord Galen orders, "Base, see if you can connect to any of the military computers. Also try to get me a line to the military official in charge. Let Vengeance know we are here if he needs us and to please keep me posted. Put a notice on internet message boards That I,Lord Galen leader of the Guardians, would like a word with the leader of the mutant group taking responsibility for this action. {Anger is taking over Lord Galen and he almost forgets that he has an alternate persona} and base, try to get me a secure line to Krupp. I may need to take a few days off." He turns his attention to Paladin, "Paladin, as of the moment I'm not sure of anything you can do." Paladin shrugs, and waits for the response from the computer.The base says, "... military net is locked down and very congested ... will continue probing ... I have left a message with the Generals staff ... searching the web for relevant boards to post ... a line is open to Midville when you are ready ..." Trying to engage in conversation, Paladin asks, "So why did you come to Midville, and how'd you get your powers?"

11:00-11:10 am Lord Galen glances at Paladin, "Paladin, someday I will give you my entire background. As for now I have other pressing matters." He then takes the secure line and leaves a message for his boss that he is out of town on family matters and cannot return at this time. He tells him he will keep him posted and assures him it wont be long. "What are we doing again." Paladin asks. "Who is Krupp? Is he the head police guy?"

11:10-11:20 am "Paladin, Wojo is the police guy. Krupp is an acquaintance of mine." Lord Galen says,then taps his badge. "Vengeance, is there anything I can help with from here?"

11:20-11:30 am Lord Galen asks the base, "Base,any word from the military. How about the mutant group, have we any news?" It takes a moment before the base replies, "... I am still waiting word from the General ... There have been a number of replies on the numerous boards and I am currently trying to verify the validity of many of them ..."

11:30-11:40 am Lord Galen tells the base, "Keep trying..." The two heroes sit in silence as the base continues its work.

11:40-11:50 am Paladin speaks to the computer, "What are the replies about?" The base replies, "...the replies range from claiming responsibility for the attack-to cheering it-to denouncing it...I am trying to track the comments and have a couple of leads that might pan out as legitimate claims of responsibility...

11:50-Noon Lord Galen turns to one of the computer terminals and begins tapping keys.The room is silent as the heroes wait.

Noon-12:10 pm Lord Galen looks up from his research, "Paladin, I'm going back to Midville. Maybe if I work I can help somehow." He then walks out of the room,leaving Paladin to wait.

12:10-12:40 pm Paladin continues to wait.

12:40-12:50 pm Paladin decides to head back to Midville ad walks to the base Hq,ready to teleport back to the Midville base.

12:50-1:00 pm At the HQ Paladin steps on the teleport pad.He appears in the Midville base HQ and has the base send him outside,in the park near the statue.He glances around at the empty streets then begins his patrol.

1:00-2:40 pm Paladin continues his patrol over the empty streets.