8:00-8:10 am Joe wakes.He stretches a moment then shuffles to the bathroom.He splashes a little water on his face then changes into costume.Early morning work-out,he thinks as he leaps from his window and starts his patrol.
8:10-10:10 am Poundage leaps to a near by rooftop and surveys the city around him.My new home,he thinks,lets see what you got.He gathers himself and leaps a city block to land on another roof.He starts to travel the city looking for any trouble spots.The sky threatens rain,dark gray clouds hang overhead.
10:10-11:50 am Poundage continues his patrol enjoying his tour of his new city.He finds nothing wrong and is just about to stop patrolling when he spots a woman flying over head wearing a blue costume.She doesn't seem to have noticed him yet.
11:50-12:00 am Poundage decides to follow the blue clad female.He stays a good distance behind her as he tails her.She doesn't seem to be going anywhere but jst seems to be wandering the city.
12:00-12:10 pm Poundage decides following the woman is just a waste of time,besides he's getting a little hungry.He starts to make his way home.Just as he gets to the Arbogast Hospital he catches sight of a blue and black man floating along behind him a discreet distance.Poundage ducks into an alley behind Guido's Grocery (Area 13) to decide his next move.
12:10-12:20 pm Poundage waits a moment to orient on the blue and black character.He then leaps out to land near this fellow and ask,"Who are you and why are you following me?"
12:20-12:30 pm Poundage stands waiting for a reply.The blue and black character answers,"I am Vengence of the Guardians I am a protector of the city. You are new to this town I figured I would see what you were up to."The two men stare at each other,sizing the other up.
12:30-12:40 pm Poundage looks Vengeance up and down and replies,"I am Poungage, doer of good, destroyer of evil. I am new to the city, but my intentions are to make this city safe for everyone. What do you mean 'the Guardians'?".
12:40-12:50 pm Poundage waits for an answer as a small crowd begins to develop.Some mumbles in that crowd are quieted by a clap of thunder.
12:50-1:00 pm Vengeance looks around them and notices the crowd gathering."We are starting to get a crowd.Let's meet on the top of Guido's to finish this discussion.",he says to Poundage.Poundage replies,"OK" and leaps to the rooftop mentioned.Vengeance floats up slowly.As he lands Vengeance says,"The Guardians are a band of local heroes, looking to expand, protecting the city. If your interested,I can contact Lord Galen and get you a meeting."Poundage smiles a little as he answers,"How about you just give me a contact number and I will get in touch. I have yet to fight crime. I am quite sure I will need no help."Vengeance touches his badge,"Base can you give me a number so people can get a hold of us at Guardian base?"In a couple of moments both men her the base reply,"I will monitor the number GUA-RDIAN."Poundage nods his head and Vengeance floats off to finish his patrol.Poundage watches him go and when he is sure Vengeance is gone he hops down to the ally to start toward home.
1:00-7:10 pm Poundage goes home and changes.He finds some lunch and grabs his paper.As he eats he scans the want ads for jobs in the sports field.He finds a couple that interest him and makes a couple notes to check them out.He starts to look for property or businesses for sale.He doesn't find any that interest him so decides to patrol a little more.He changes back into costume and starts his patrol.The city is quiet and for the next few hours Poundage is unable to find anything wrong.Around 5 pm he decides to go home,change and go out on the town.He finds a nice restaurant and has a nice dinner.After dinner he finds a small marijuana bar and wanders in for a couple 'smokes'.He's there just a short time when a middle aged man next to him at the bar starts a conversation."Hi.My name is Harry.I'm just here relaxing a little.You are?",he says.
7:10-7:20 pm Joe looks at the man and says,"Hi I'm Joe,just moved from out west."The man sticks out his hand and they shake.Harry says,"I came down to relax a bit,having some hard times at work and was hoping this would take my mind off of it.What's your story?"
7:20-7:30 pm "I've just been out running around checking out the city.",looks towards bar-tender"Let me get 4 grams of that acapulco gold.Anyway, I know the whole crappy job scene, I'm looking to go self-employed. Let's just forget about all that and smoke up.",Joe says.Harry grins at the last comment,takes a toke.After exhaling the smoke he says,"Self-employed?I am a business owner,and believe me it isn't as grand as it sounds.What kind of business are you looking into?"
7:30-7:40 pm "Actually I wouldn't mind owning a pot/comedy club. You know, a live band on the first floor with a small comedy club above it. What kind of business are you in?",Joe asks."Well currently I'm in construction and it isn't going well.Would you be interested in that line of work at all?",Harry replies.
7:40-9:50 pm "Actually, I am interested in anything that will make me money. Give me a way to contact you and when I get everything squared away, like getting a phone. Then I will contact you and you can give me an offer." Joe states his goodbye and leaves.He makes a leisurely stroll home and relaxes a little in front of the TV.He catches a news promo and watches intently."The New Guardians,friend or foe?Midville was introduced to the New Guardians in the early morning hours.The result?One police officer and another costumed female hospitalized,one costumed criminal dead.Details at 11.",the announcer says.Joe sits for a moment letting the promo repeat in his mind.
9:50 pm-Midnight Joe decides to smoke a joint, put a tape in to record the news,and go to bed.
Monday September 10th
Quick Link:Sept.9-Sept.10-Sept.11-Sept.12-Sept.13-Sept.14 Top
Midnight-5:50 pm Joe wakes from a deep sleep,stumbles to the kitchen and starts some breakfast.He remembers the news he taped and clicks on the VCR.As he eats he watches the recorded news.He fast forwards to the part concerning the Guardians then concentrates as he eats.The announcer begins,"Midville got it's introduction to 'The New Guardians' early this morning.As reported by Sergeant Wojokowski,Commander of the Special Crimes Unit,two costumed members appeared this morning to thwart an alleged robbery at the Key Building.In the fight that followed these two would be heroes,going by the names Lord Galen and Vengeance,apparently saved a police officer and another costumed individual,known as Dementia.The police were able to take into custody 3 perpetrators but in the tussle these 'New Guardians' fired upon another costumed individual involved in the robbery.As reported by Sgt.Wojokowski,this individual was knocked from the roof of the Key Building,plummeting to his death 8 stories below.One police officer and Dementia were taken to the hospital,unconscious, but were expected to recover.Sgt. Wojokowski stated that all events were under investigation but at this point he was unable to comment on any charges."Joe frowns a little as her turns off the VCR and steps into the bathroom.He takes his shower,mind wondering to his meeting with Vengeance the day before.He pulls on some clothes and walks to work,planning his day.At the Ace Handling Warehouse he clocks in and begins a strenuous day of toting crates here and there,loading an endless stream of trucks.When his day is finished he walks toward the mall and enters the computer store.He shops a little and is surprised to find a system like what he wants.He consults the salesman and is able to configure exactly the system he wants.The salesman is taken aback when they are finished,and comments that he hasn't seen a system like this in his years selling computers.Joe pays the man and hails a cab.When the cab gets there he loads the trunk full and rides home.Once home he starts to dig out the many components and starts to assemble his system.
5:50:15 pm Joe continues to assemble his computer.
5:50:30 pm Joe looks about for the j connector and continues assembling his computer.
5:50-6:30 pm Joe continues to assemble his new computer.He sits back a moment and realizes he only has about half an hour more and he should be finished.
6:30-6:50 pm Joe continues to assemble his computer.
6:50-7:00 Joe puts the finishing touches on his computer and stands back to admire his handy work.
7:00-7:10 pm Joe goes into his bedroom and changes into costume.He quietly slips out his window and begins his patrol.
Morning-9:00 am Joe wakes and steps into his shower.He has a bit for breakfast then walks to work.
9:00 am-noon Joe goes about his day,driving the forklift,loading trucks.
noon-5:30 pm After lunch Joe continues driving the forklift.The work is tedious and Joe lets his mind wander a bit.He's been thinking about the offer from Vengeance to join the Guardians and decides he will try to contact him later this evening.He clocks out at 5 o'clock and walks home.Once there he grabs a sandwich and sits down at his computer.He starts researching the Guardians,hoping it will help him make his decision on joining.
5:30-5:40 pm Joe continues his research into the Guardians.On the recent Guardians he seems unable to come up with much.There is a report on file at the police station concerning a fight September 16th.The known Guardians,Lord Galen and Vengeance,and another costumed heroine,Dementia tangle with 2 thugs and Darius,a previously unknown villain.The 2 thugs are taken into custody but Darius is killed by a shot from the Guardian vehicle,the Striker.A police officer and Dementia are hospitalized with their injuries.There are minor reports of people matching Lord Galen's and Vengeance's description being seen about the city.
5:40-5:50 pm Joe starts looking for the Guardians history.He finds some information on the original Guardian,Jaguar.In the mid 1970's he established himself as Midville's pre-eminant hero.He used his personal fortune and built 5 bases of operation for his new team.Jaguar recruited Stormshadow and Plastique and started the original Guardians.For a couple of years these Guardians became one of the most liked and successful teams on Earth.Then after a few weeks of team in-fighting Jaguar disbanded the team and closed all 5 bases.Jaguar died suddenly days later.
5:50-6:00 pm Joe sits a moment,mulling over the information he has found.He starts punching keys,digging a little further into Jaguar.The man who was Jaguar,apparently lived life under the name 'Gunther Valiant'.A search for the name shows no birth certificate,no social security number.A fake identity,more than likely,to protect his real identity.But this 'Gunther Valiant' persona did have loads of cash and created the 'Gunther Valiant Foundation' to control all his assets after his death,until a legal inheritor appeared.No such person has stepped forward to make a claim.Joe sits back a moment,digesting what he has just read.He decides to dig a little deeper into this Plastique.
6:00-6:10 pm Joe is unable to uncover 'Plastiques' real identity but finds he too established himself in the late 70's.A formidable foe,he had the ability to stretch immense distance,wings to fly at incredible speeds,a shield and some kind of paralysis ray.During his stay as a Guardian there were rumors that he was actually an alien and the Guardians ended up repelling the invasion from his home planet.During the fragmentation of the Guardians Plastique started a young teen group that had a little success.After Jaguar disbanded the Guardians,Plastique's career apparently,there is no more information.
6:10-6:20 pm Joe decides to check on this Stormshadow.His history parallels Jaguar and Plastique.Active in the 70's,was invited to join the original Guardians by Jaguar,remained a Guardian till the team split up.He and Plastique apparently became good friends,and their determination probably extended the life of the team.Then came the problems with Jaguar.Some believe it was power,others believe it was monetary gain but all that is certain is there was team infighting.Jaguar disbanded the team and Stormshadow melted into the background,never being active afterwards.
6:20-6:30 pm Joe continues to dig into the Guardians.Jaguar,a.k.a. Gunther Valiant,was an extremely intelligent man and the Foundation owned quite a few patents that kept the money coming in.Gunther Valiant was married,publically,to a sweet american beauty by the name Valeri Vance.Again Joe is unable to find anything legal for her or the marriage.No social security number,birth certificate or marriage license...more smoke to cover the real Jaguar.There is a small story of her death about 6 months before the Guardians disbanded.Her husband was the cities best hero,and she died in a car wreck.There were no reported children so it looks as if Gunther Valiant had no heirs.Joe scoots back from the screen a moment,rest his eyes.He rubs his eyes with one hand,thinking.I keep finding a new twist.I'm not sure where or who to dig into next.
6:30-6:40 pm Joe types in ...e..q..u..i..p..m..e..n..t...The computer disc starts to whir,and information slowly fills the page.The original Guardians were known to have bases all over the world.The actual number and locations still unknown.During their heyday the Guardians used the hybrid Striker I & II,in combat and shuttled it from base to base for it's use.The Guardians themselves were known to have a limited teleport ability,though how they did is unknown.They had other minor pieces of equipment,a smaller Striker III etc.But,the bases along with the Striker,it seemed the Guardians always appeared where needed.The electronics used it all the equipment was of Jaguar's design and was believed to have artificial intelligence.Joe reads over this information only vaguely interested.He punches a couple more keys and waits.When the page opens up empty,except one sentence,Joe sits back,surprised...Gunther Valiant never owned any sort of technology assets...Where do you get your little toys?
6:40-6:50 pm Joe punches up technology companies in the Midville area during the time period.There were only 2 existing companies that seemed to have the capability to produce such sophisticated electronics,Pegasus Engineering and the fledgling Krupp Enterprises.Joe's reading is interrupted by the ring of the phone.He answers and hears Kip's voice on the other end,"Joe,I have a meeting scheduled for September 14 at 5:15 with Foggy Nelson."
6:50-7:00 pm Joe replies,"Awesome,I plan to lay a pretty large advance payment on him." Kip sounds a little rushed,"We were just discussing money.""That's cool, I'm quitting my job tomorrow. We'll hang out and celebrate.",Joe says,clicking a couple of keys.Kip watches as the waiter takes the bill over to Foggy."Call me later.""Later",Joe replies and Kip hangs up the phone.Joe gets back to his research.
7:00-7:10 pm Joe starts looking into the Guardian bases.There is one known in Midville and witnesses report seeing the Guardian vehicles enter the lake in Rathbone Park (Areas 15&16) .Guardian activity centered on the eastern half of the United States with some involvement in Europe.Therefore it is believed there are at least 2 american bases and 1,possibly more,european bases.Jaguar spent half his lifetime building it all.He was a master at electronics and artificial intelligence so it is believed they are maintained automatically.Each has it's own power source,water source,and food source as none are registered with any utility.The big mystery is the actual construction.There are no records whatsoever of any construction business or labor used.Most experts believe Jaguar had built construction droids that worked over a period of 20 years.Joe sits back to think.20 years prior to the Guardians?A long time to prepare then dismantle after only a couple years.
7:10-7:20 pm Joe decides to look into the death of Gunther Valiant.He finds a date but no official death certificate.Of course not,he thinks.Don't need a death certificate for a fake person.Of course the funeral was a public one,but the casket was closed and sealed.Throngs of people showed up over a period of three days before they cremated the body and placed his ashes in an unknown tomb.Gunther Valiant,as Jaguar,was well known for his deeds.Gunther Valiant,as himself,was known to be Jaguar but loved for Gunther's deeds for the city.A goody two shoes all the way,huh?Joe punches up Plastique and Stormshadow but is unable to find anything on their personal identities or their deaths.Nothing except they both ceased being active when the Guardians ended,and disappeared soon after.
7:20-7:30 pm Joe powers down the computer and starts to pull out his costume.While he does this he picks up the phone and dials Harry."Hello?",comes the voice on the other end."Hey Harry,it's Joe.How you doing this evening?"Joe starts to slip on his boots.Harry answers,"Hi Joe.I've been better.What can I do for you?"
7:30-7:40 pm Joe replies,"Well Harry,I have done some thinking on your offer.I am willing to listen to an offer."From the other end of the line Joe hears Harry reply,"Well the business is a little slow,but nothing a little cash infusion wouldn't help.You decide the amount of money you would like to invest and I will sell a percentage of the business to you.The business is worth almost $100,000 and only recently have we had trouble finding work.The recent arrival of the Fisk conglomerate definitely bodes well for more construction work."Joe thinks a little then answers."Let me do some thinking on the subject and I will get back to you.If you need to contact me just call me here."Joe leaves him the number,they exchange a couple more pleasantries then hang up.Joe finishes dressing and starts his patrol.
8:30-8:40 pm Poundage continues his patrol.He is interrupted by the beep of his celphone.
8:40-8:50 pm Poundage answers and realizes it's Vengeance.Vengeance says,"Hey what's up?We need your assistance at the Krupp building,if you can."Poundage answers,"Thanks I'll meet you there."He hangs up the phone and starts in the direction of the Krupp building.
8:50-9:00 pm Poundage flies to the Krupp building(Area 14,16) and lands on the roof.The roof has a heliport and Poundage notices a number of video cameras posted about the roof.Some of these turn toward him and remain watching him.
9:00-9:10 pm Poundage waits on the roof for Vengeance.The cameras continue to watch him,but he is only a little concerned,as nothing has come of their watching him.
9:10-9:20 pm Poundage continues to wait,getting a little impatient.He studies the cameras a little and realizes that the security unit inside now has about 15 minutes of video on him.He starts toward a camera when he notices a strange figure flying toward him.As it gets closer he notices it is not just one figure but two,one carried by the other.He recognizes Vengeance and Lord Galen and waits patiently as the two land softly nearby.
9:20-9:30 pm Poundage looks at the two and says,"About time you guys show up."Lord Galen nods his head,"Good to see you Poundage. Glad you have come to help. Have you seen anything out of the ordinary?"Vengeance looks at Poundage and Galen then at the cameras trained on them."Maybe we should go somewhere where we are away from the cameras.I can float around the building.Maybe one of you search the park and the other check around the building,what do you to think?"
9:30-9:40 pm The rain starts to pour as Poundage looks at the two and says,"How about Vengeance floats, I'll look through the park and Lord Galen can check the streets. That is unless Lord Galen needs to go get the Striker."(OOG:GM rolls with laughter.) Poundage laughs at himself."There is probably a way you guys can have your base contact my cell. Then we could have constant communication." Poundage gives Lord Galen the double guns and a wink,(OOG:Again GM takes a second to stop laughing.)Vengeance chuckles at Poundage's gesture and replies,"Sounds like a plan."He touches his badge and orders," Base contact Poundage on his cell, keep the line open through our badges and private."The bases reply comes quickly,"Affirmative...I shall mute all sounds on the open line except voice..."Vengeance floats Galen to the street and floats back to the sky to look around.Lord Galen starts checking around the building listening intently for any sounds or anything out of the ordinary.Poundage hears his cellphone beep and answers."Base...connection active..."Poundage jumps off the roof, and heads to the park trying to be as inconspicuous as possible.
9:40-9:50 pm Poundage bounds into the park then tries to blend into the trees.The rain seems to have kept ordinary people indoors and Poundage finds the park empty.He searches about but finds everything to be quiet.
9:50-10:00 pm Poundage searches the empty park unable to find anything out of the ordinary.
10:00-10:20 pm Poundage continues his search,unable to find anything wrong.
10:20-10:30 pm Poundage continues his search in the park.He still is unable to find anything and is beginning to wonder.Suddenly he hears Vengeance's voice coming from the open cellphone in his hand."Poundage would you like to join us on the roof." He puts the phone to his ear to respond.
10:30-10:40 pm Poundage decides instead of responding he will just go to the Krupp building rooftop.He leaps across the park and with another bound reaches the rooftop.He lands near Vengeance and notices a very large man there with him..He gives the behemoth a wary look and ask,"What's up Vengeance?"
10:40-10:50 pm Vengeance looks at Poundage,"Poundage,this is Obstacle.We are going to look for this character,Wraith,with him.You are both power men.Why don't one of you guys grab me and jump around the city,maybe start in the other park?"Poundage looks at Obstacle and says,"Hey big guy, I don't care who it is, let's just get out of here.After we check out the park maybe we ought to check around the outskirts of Midville or even find out where Krupp resides and check there."
10:50-11:00 pm Poundage grabs Vengeance and starts to leap in the direction of the other park in Midville.Obstacle watches and leaps after them.Vengeance concentrates and erects a forcefield around Poundage and himself.The two of them hear Vengeance's badge beep and he taps.They hear Lord Galen say," Vengeance, we are at Buchanan park. This is where Scar says everything is to happen."
11:00-11:10 pm Poundage streaks through the sky,Vengeance hanging from one arm.He lands neatly at an intersection and takes a second to get his bearings.In that second Obstacle lands nearby and looks over toward him.Poundage gathers himself and makes another great leap.Obstacle shakes his head a moment,peers in the direction Poundage went,then makes a great leap after him.The landing on the second jump brings them to Buchanan Park where they find Vyra,Lord Galen and Scar standing in a group.
11:10-11:20 pm Vengeance,having been released from Poundage's grasp,is the first to speak."I will fly above to get a look out while you guys figure out a plan.We can stay in contact through Lord Galen and his badge."He proceeds to float upward,beginning to circle the area.Poundage looks from face to face and says,"I think the more we stand in the open, the less of a chance of an occurrence. I will conceal myself. I suggest we all do the same."He starts to look around for any kind of cover.Lord Galen comments,"I believe we should all conceal ourselves as well."Scar nods in agreement as Obstacle looks about and says,"Uhh guys,, I'm 9 feet tall, not much in the way of concealment for me.."Lord Galen looks at Scar and says,"And Scar,I know nothing about stasis fields or levi-cars myself."Scar nods a moment then glancing at the badge on Lord Galen's chest ask,"What kind of businesses is Krupp into? What kind of record does he have?"All of the heroes find it hard to find much cover in the park itself.There are a few vehicles parked along the edge of the park,but even these don't offer much in the way of cover.
11:20-11:30 pm Obstacle murmurs to himself again,then to the group," Well no use in hiding,it happens or it does not."He stands defiantly where he is.Lord Galen looks at Scar and answers his last question,"Krupp Industries is working on robotics and as far as I know their record is good."Scar looks at him a moment,the answer came quickly without checking the 'base',interesting.Poundage seeks cover behind a nearby parked car and notices all the remaining heroes,except Obstacle,are scattering for cover also.
11:30-11:40 pm Poundage moves from behind the car and approaches Obstacle,who seems to be muttering to himself again. "You must be stupid, braindead or both. Constantly "talking to yourself" and foolish enough to think that a super villain will go on with his plan to arrive with someone unknown standing in the open waiting on him/her." Poundage leaps away to the rooftop of the 3 story building behind Guthrie Mansion(Area 4), thinking to himself,'what an idiot'. Once on the rooftop, Poundage conceals himself behind the air conditioning unit. He gets on his phone and suggests the others to watch in the distance as well. "If the big mumbler doesn't conceal himself, the villains may retreat before reaching their destination."
11:40-11:50 pm Poundage crouches behind the A.C. unit,peeking over to view the park.From his cellphone he hears Lord Galen ask quietly," Vengeance, do you see anyone?"He waits for Vengeance's reply when there is a massive BOOM!!There seems to be some sort of implosion very near Obstacle.The shock wave from the blast spreads out swiftly.Windows break in nearby buildings and vehicles as car alarms start screaming.The shock wave passes Poundage and for a split second he sees a completely different view.He is no longer in Buchanan Park(Area 4,6) but in an area surrounded by massive buildings.Some sort of floating vehicle flies by and Poundage notices people all around,some in some sort of military style uniforms.Then he is back in the park and standing very near Obstacle is three strangely dressed civilians,a green clad male with a 'W' on his chest,a multi-colored female wearing some sort of machinery and a crab clawed woman.He hears screaming coming from all over and it takes a moment to realize some of those screams are coming from his own mouth.
11:50 (Phase 25)Lord Galen concentrates and his body is engulfed in ice.He stands up straight and ask in a loud voice,"Who are you and why are you here?"The crab woman looks in his direction and an inhuman growl/scream erupts from her throat.The green male stands stiff."I am Wraith.And I'm here for them.",he says,not turning.Keeping his eyes on the two woman in front of him,he gestures at the three strangely dressed people behind him.(Phase 23)The woman wearing the machinery looks about quickly,confused.She raises her arm,aiming at Wraith."WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WRAITH?WHERE IN THE H*LL ARE WE?",she screams.The weapon on her arm fires and the shot flies past Wraith,narrowly missing one of the strangers behind him.(Phase 20)Scar climbs to the roof of the car he was crouched behind.He points his staff at the woman wearing the machinery.A sonic wave shoots from the staff and strikes the ground near the woman.(Phase 19)Vyra concentrates and erects a force field around herself.She then crawls over till she is at the feet of the crab woman.Vyra looks up into the face of the woman as the woman looks down at her.Vyra shutters a bit as she sees an animal rage in those eyes and hears a deep rumbling growl start.Poundage leaps from the roof to land just outside the fence of the Guthrie Mansion(Area 4).He announces,"I am Poundage, protector of Midville,let me help."He raises his arm and fires a blast from his wrist blaster.The blast skims past the crab woman to dissipate somewhere behind her.
11:50 pm (Phase 18)Obstacle raises a mighty fist and says,"I am called Obstacle, grandson of Giea, child of Anteus. I do not hit women...but in your case I'll make an exception."He charges the crab woman and swings.As he swings he hears Wraith scream,"NO!!GET AWAY FROM THE PRAWN YOU FOOLS!!"The crab woman deftly dodges the blow and now stands face to belly with Obstacle.(Phase 17)Wraith holds his ground as he raises his staff.He aims the staff at the crab woman and fires.A blast of energy arcs from the staff and slams into the crab woman.She flies backwards and lands at the feet of the Buchannan statue as Wraith continues,"DO NOT ALLOW THE CREATURE TO TOUCH YOU!"A screech splits the night as the Prawn rises to her feet,dashes to stand in front of Obstacle.She raises both claws and swings at the immense man.The claws connect,smacking into Obstacle's mid-section.Suddenly his whole body changes,turning into a marble like substance.He flies 20 feet backward,landing at the feet of one of the oddly dressed strangers.
11:50 pm (Phase 10)Lord Galen remains where he is,unsure what to do.(Phase 8)The machinery woman moves in behind the Prawn."I don't know who your new friends are,Wraith,but either they back off or I turn my pet loose to wreck havoc.Do you want more statues?",she ask as she notices Vyra on the ground before her."They apparently do not know what they are dealing with.",she comments as she points her left arm and flips a toggle on her mid-section with her right.There is an audible hum and some kind of energy smacks Vyra's forcefield,overwhelms it and crashes into Vyra.The force of the blast throws Vyra backwards 10 feet.(Phase 6)Suddenly from the head of the statue that was Obstacle comes a blast of energy aimed at the Prawn.The blast makes it almost half way to her when it dissipates.Vengeance lets a small smile cross his face as he wisecracks,"I hate it when I get crabs.Guess I will have to shave when I get home."Wraith and the machinery woman turn to look at him and he sees shock in their expressions.He points at the Prawn and fires a magnetic blast that smacks into the ground at her feet."A Guardian?But no Guardian I know.How is this?",Wraith questions,voice full of disbelief.(Phase 5)From his vantage point atop the car roof Scar again aims his staff at the machinery woman.A buzz is heard as his sonic blast passes by her wrist,missing by inches.(Phase 4)Vyra gets into a crouched position and reaches out with her telekinectics and grabs the Prawn.She throws the creature backward into the Buchannan statue,breaking off one of it's arms.The Prawn screeches but remains conscious.Poundage looks at Obstacle and chuckles. "Maybe it's not a bad idea to leave him like this. It's much more quiet. Guess it's a good thing he decided not to hide."Poundage continues to chuckle. Noticing that everyone's attention is focused on the crab woman, Poundage fires a charge of his paralysis ray at the machine-clad woman.The blast passes by her head to dissipate behind her.(Phase 2)"If you are indeed a Guardian,call the others.If we take Magnum down her Prawn will go berserk and we will need all the help we can get.",Wraith says to Vengeance as he aims his staff at the machinery woman.A blast of energy shoots out and digs up the grass if front of Magnum.There is a screech from the Prawn as she uses her muscle to break from the telekinectic grasp of Vyra and rushes to stand over top of Vyra.Her claws raise in the air and come crashing down to smash in to the earth beside Vyra.(Phase 0)Seeing this Wraith turns and fires another blast from his staff at the creature.The blast hits her in the side and throws her 15 feet.
11:50 pm (Phase -1)From close to where the Prawn lays on the ground another power blast strikes out.It hits Prawn squarely,throwing her into the street in front of the Federal building.The body lays in the street unmoving."NO!!",screams Magnum and the gathered heroes see a fire burn in her eyes.She is silent a moment,her rage building."I WILL RAIN DEATH AND DESTRUCTION...YOU ALL WILL PAY!!".Her arms raise high in the air and she stares into the sky.
11:50 pm (Phase -2)Vengeance concentrates and reaches out with his magnetics trying to grab Magnum.Strangely he feels an odd magenetic push back at him and is not successful grabbing her.The gathered heroes stare at Magnum,her rage building."Magum!You don't have a chance.Just lower the weapon and give up,I'm sure we can figure out what happened here and rectify it.",Wraith says,trying to calm her.Her head shifts and her hate filled gaze locks on him."You fool,look about you.I think I have this figured out and they can't help us.Do you not recognize Vengeance?Surely you know Vyra the Peacekeeper.It took me a moment but I know.Look about you!",she spits at him.Wraith looks around stunned,the truth sinking in.
11:50:15 pm (Phase 44)Having seen his friend Charles get knocked down in fights before, Ray knows what's going to happen and sees Vyra right in the oncoming path.He grows to his three inch size and in his best mock cajun says,"Sorry honey, but the defication is about to hit the rotary oscillator.."(Phase 31)Wraith looks over to Vengeance then to Vyra,"Vyra the Peacekeeper?The Golden Guardians?OH,my God!..."He shakes his head slightly,"That is a problem for later,now you must be stopped."He points his staff and another power blast erupts from it.The blast catches Magnum squarely in the chest and propels her backwards.She lands in a heap at the edge of the street in front of the Federal Building.She lays there unmoving.Wraith looks at the body a moment and,speaking in a low whisper barely heard by the others gathered,says"Welcome to the Golden Age,my old friend."In a louder voice he speaks to them all,"It is over.Someone cover the Prawn with a forcefield,alert the authorities."He begins a slow walk to where Magnum lies.
11:50 pm-Midnight Obstacle comes to, and is in a beserker rage when Ray flies up and grows to full size,"Hey man, Chill, it's over.Calm down,we won.."Obstacle stands and dusts himself off,grumbling to himself.Vengeance,Poundage and Scar are surprised at the appearance of Ray and stare a moment.Scar takes a deep breath and gives slow nod to the assembly of heroes he brought together.He turns to walk away and catches Poundage's eye.The two look at each other a moment then Scar starts to walk off to the east.Meanwhile Vengeance lands near Wraith,who is gathering Magnum in his arms.Vengeance taps his badge and ask,"Base can you call the police and tell then our location?"From the badge the mechanical voice states,"Affirmative...reported...authorities will arrive soon..."Vyra flutters her hand in front of her and erects a forcefield around the fallen Prawn.She then turns to Wraith and states, "Alright, you have some explaining to do."Wraith,on one knee craddling Magnum,turns to face her and she notices a tear roll down his cheek.Before he has a chance to answer Lord Galen ask,with authority,"Who are you and how do you know of the Guardians?"Again Wraith starts to answer when Poundage speaks in a loud voice,"Wraith, I am Poundage. Obviously you are from the future and have been commanded to apprehend these two. What I want to know is who sent you and how did you get here?"Wraith smiles,then starts a hardy laugh.After a few moments he slows to a giggle and gently lays Magnum back on the ground.He stands and faces the gathered heroes.He first looks at Poundage,"I am very pleased to meet you Poundage.I know who you are,I know very well your deeds,or shall I say the deeds you haven't done yet.Yes you are correct,I am from the future,or 'A' future,I'm not sure.But you are wrong in assuming I was commanded to apprehend these two.In my time,2056,I too am a hero and was trying to stop Magnum and her Prawn.She was on a rampage and did some significant damage before I was able to confront her.Our battle had just begun when the SCU units appeared.They had been working on a new containment field and just before we appeared here one of the units fired the containment weapon at Magnum.Magnum has the ability to affect the magnetic spectrum and was probably using a magnetic defense.Near as I can figure,the magnetics and the containment force reacted in some way to shift us all back here."He turns to Vyra,"I hope that is enough explanation.May I say it is an honor to meet you.You are revered by many in my time for your actions.You are the Peacekeeper,vital to the life of Midville."He then turns to face Lord Galen,"Lord Galen I presume.I didn't recognize you in your ice armor.Most of the pictures of you are in your brown uniform.It is a pleasure to meet the man who begins the Guardians golden age.I know of the Guardians because in my past...I guess your future...they are an intregal part of our history.They are a key player in the Mutant Revolution and their sacrifice is the only way to end the Prawn War.In my present they still exist and are an international force for good and protectors of the planet."He turns to Vengeance,a wide smile growing on his face,"But of all the Golden Guardians it is you I had always admired.The heart of the Guardians,the glue that holds them together in the coming tribulations."He then peers to Obstacle and Ray,"You two may as well join us here.You have your parts to play also.The odd couple who never seem to find their place.Don't fear the help you find gathered here."The three strange civilians slowly walk over to be near Wraith."Now we have some things to work out.I assume the authorities will care for these poor people but I would prefer not to be caged away until the government can prod and probe me for any information they may want.First what time and year is it?Second what do we do from here?"As he is finishing his last question all gathered hear the approaching sirens.
Wednesday September 12th
Quick Link:Sept.9-Sept.10-Sept.11-Sept.12-Sept.13-Sept.14 Top
Midnight -12:10 am Vyra speaks up, "It is the year 2001."There is a look of shock on Wraith's face,"My God...before the Guardians are truly a team...."Vyra continues," And as far as to where to go from here, I am not sure. Does anyone have any injuries? I know a doctor who might be willing to help without revealing our identities..."Obstacle replies,"Only my pride."Vengeance looks at the others,"Maybe I should take Wraith back to the base for now.Galen you should stay and talk to the cops.What do you guys think?If we have any questions we can ask him there."Again a look of shock crosses Wraith's face,"Awesome...but I'm not sure how much of the future I should share...."Itsy-Bitsy chimes in, "Uh, we have to go, some of us have real world jobs and real world bills to pay."Poundage looks at the others and says,"Good job."He then peers at Obstacle and chuckles.He then leaps away,leaving the group to watch his exit.He lands near his apartment and makes his way home,prepared to catch some sleep.
12:10-12:20 am Poundage makes it home,changes and goes to bed.
12:40 am-noon Joe wakes to the alarm and stretches.He walks slowly to the shower and lets the hot water wake him.After his shower he whips up a hearty breakfast.After breakfast he starts his way to work,a lightness in his step.He steps into the warehouse,finds his supervisor and politely quits with a smile on his face.He strides out ready to begin the next phase of his life.He finds a discreet ally and changes into costume,to begin his patrol.The patrol is quiet and things seem in order.As noon starts to roll around Poundage grabs a quick bite at a corner fast food joint,ignoring the stares,and buys a paper.He gets comfortable and dials Harry Winton as he prepares to enjoy his lunch.A secretary answers the phone,"Winton Construction,how can I help you?"Poundage gives his real name and ask for Harry.Within moments he hears Harry,"Hello,buddy.What's up?"
Noon-12:10 pm "Well, I wanted to set up a meeting with you.",Poundage says."Really?What about?",Harry ask,slightly nervous." I have a meeting with Foggie Nelson to announce a partnership with a friend of mine. We were tossing around your construction business and have decided to go in halves with you. That is if you will sell that big of a share.",Poundage answers.Poundage can almost here the smile that breaks out on Harry's face,"Really?That would be great!But,are you sure you can handle a construction business.There are a lot of laws and codes you know."" We would not want to make any business decisions for you. We would just let the company go on as it has in the past.",Poundage comments trying to sooth the ruffled feathers."You mean just as an investor?That would be great!The company could use the shot of cash and I can promise you,you wouldn't be sorry.",Harry says."Also, we will probably be sending jobs your way as we grow as an industry leader, I hope. I can set up a luncheon between the three of us for sometime next week. If that is good for you, I will call my partner and let you know what day is good for us.",Poundage finishes."That would be great,just get back with me and let me know when.And hey buddy,business aside we will have to get together for some drinks one of these evenings.",Harry says and the two end their conversation.Business concluded Poundage goes about reading his paper and eating his lunch.
12:10-12:20 pm Poundage finishes his lunch,a little disappointed that there is no property or business opportunities that catch his interest in the paper.He goes back to bounding about the city,patrolling.
1:40-2:10 pm Poundage continues his patrol.As he bounds past the Rathbone Park (Area 15,16) he hears a voice roar,"Scream and run like little ants!Spread the word,Magnalak is here and Midville shall tremble!"As he looks about the park he sees civilians scattering in every direction,radiating out from a white and brown clad man standing near the middle of the park.Looking further about the park he notices the skeletal Scar standing in the south eastern corner of the park.
2:10 pm (Phase 20)Poundage motions to Scar,"Glad to help out. If you need anything just ask." Turning his attention to Magnalak, "As for you, prepare to feel the fury."Magnalak wheels about to face Poundage,dashes through the trees and smiles."Of course I must best a champion to prove my worth.Step forward then champion."He raise his arms,concentrates and an arc of energy erupts aimed at Poundage.The blast skips past Poundage,skimming past his shoulder.
2:10 pm (Phase 14) Poundage glances over his shoulder,then back at Magnalak,"Nice shot,champ."He steps in front of Magnalak and takes a swing.Magnalak doesn't even move,but the swing misses completely."Good try,but you must be a lot better than that to hit a trained Magni warrior.",Magnalak says,a small smile spreading across his face.(Phase 6)Scar concentrates on his staff and electricity leaps from it and arcs all around his body.From the trees behind and to the left of Magnalak a click and beeping sound can be heard along with some mumbling.(Phase 5)Magnalak glances at the sparking Scar and turns back to Poundage,"The honor code states I only need to defeat one champion."His arms raise again,Poundage feels a slight vibration."But if you two are the best this planet offers,my honor staff will over flow!"A burst of energy grazes past Poundage,breaking a branch off a tree behind him.(Phase 0)Scar aims his staff at Magnalak and wills the electricity to leap forward.Again Magnalak doesn't move but Scar gets the impression that he dodged the blast.It harmlessly plows the ground behind Magnalak.(Turn 2 Phase 23) Magnalak glares at Scar,"Have you no battle training on this puny planet?Your shots couldn't hit an apprentice Magni."He raises his arms again and the blast that erupts strikes Poundage in the chest.Poundage stands unfazed.
2:10:15 pm (Phase 21)Poundage begins to back up.He looks puzzled at the villain,"If that is all you have, you'll never be a champion magnet, or whatever."He concentrates,focusing on fear,trying to push that fear at his opponent.Magnalak cocks his head a little,"'Nice try champ.'All warriors are trained to resist such parlor tricks.You shall perish painfully if you mock the honor code again human."(Phase 12)Scar nods to the new character and points his staff at him "What is it you want, traveler??"Magnalak looks at him,"I am no traveler,I am a conquerer.I conquer and gain honor."(Phase 8)Magnalak turns back to Poundage and raises his arms.Again there is that blast of energy striking Poundage.Again there is no visible evidence of damage as Poundage takes the blast.
2:10:15 pm (Phase 6)Poundage leaps into the air,flying over Magnalak.He lands 25 feet behind and to the right of Magnalak in the middle of the trees near the lake's edge.He looks about,searching for the source of the noises he heard earlier.Hiding at the base of one of the trees is a man who seems to be holding a cell-phone to his ear and what appears to be a micro-cassette recorder in the other hand.He looks at Poundage in shock and silently waves Poundage away.
2:10:30 pm (Phase 20)Poundage glances at the man hiding in the trees then leaps away.He lands behind Magnalak and cocks his arm.He swings a mighty swing but misses completely.Magnalak spins around and cocks his arm,"Your attacks are useless against a trained warrior."His swing also misses but the two men now stand face to face."On this world conquerors are not well liked.", Scar says.He points the staff again and an arc of electricity leaps out.The blast of energy passes the two men and strikes a nearby tree."I am not here to be liked,strange one,just to win my honor.",is the answer from Magnalak.
2:10:30 pm (Phase 5)Poundage leaps high into the air,aiming to land with a crash on Magnalak.He flies almost 300 feet into the air and speeds earthward.A miscalculation in his leap and he crashes to ground,missing Magnalak.He lets out an audible "uuumph" as he strikes the ground.Magnalak lets out a laugh,"Why the council placed this backward planet on the honor list I'm not sure.Just an easy victory for me."He swings a kick that whizzes past Poundage's head.Scar dashes forward to stand in front of Magnalak.He seems to concentrate hard a moment.
2:10:45 pm (Phase 21)Scar raises his staff and the electrical discharge slams into Magnalak.He is thrown 35 feet,through the trees,landing with a thud.(Phase 20)Magnalak slowly rises from the grass,"Nice shot,strange one.You have earned yourself some retribution."He dashes toward Scar and swings.Scar barely dodges the swing and now stares at his angry assailant.
2:10:45 pm (Phase 18)Poundage leaps over and forces himself between Scar and Magnalak,trying to shield Scar.He raises his arm and fires a blast from his Paralysis ray.Magnalak hardly moves but the shot screams past him,dissipating in the leaves of the trees.Poundage stares into the seething red eyes,preparing himself.
2:10:45 (Phase 6)"Cease intruder!! I have found your weakness. Surrender or I shall take advantage of your weakness!!",Scar commands,peeking from behind Poundage.He aims his staff and the electrical discharge leaps out,passing Scar and scorching the grass beneath the trees.(Phase 5)Magnalak sneers,"Strange one,surrender is not a term I am familiar with.Once I finish your friend here I will take my time hurting you."His arms raise and an energy blast leaps forward.The blast hits Poundage hard but he remains motionless.(Phase 3)Poundage leaps up and over Scar,turning in mid-leap.He lands facing Scar's back and fires another shot from his wrist blaster.The shot shoots past Magnalak's head barely missing Scar,behind him.
2:11 pm (Phase 23)Poundage aims his wrist blaster again and lets loose his paralysis ray.Again Magnalak barely moves,yet the shot flies past him and dissipates somewhere behind him.Magnalak dashes at Scar and once in front of him swings a hard roundhouse.The punch grazes past Scar's jaw.(Phase 19)Scar raises his staff and electricity shoots out,smacking into Magnalak.Magnalak flies backwards,just missing Poundage and the trees,and lands in a heap 50 feet away,unmoving.Vengeance floats over and lands between the other two heroes.
2:11 pm (Phase 23)Poundage aims his wrist blaster again and lets loose his paralysis ray.Again Magnalak barely moves,yet the shot flies past him and dissipates somewhere behind him.Magnalak dashes at Scar and once in front of him swings a hard roundhouse.The punch grazes past Scar's jaw.(Phase 19)Scar raises his staff and electricity shoots out,smacking into Magnalak.Magnalak flies backwards,just missing Poundage and the trees,and lands in a heap 50 feet away,unmoving.Vengeance floats over and lands between the other two heroes.
2:11-2:20 pm Poundage looks at the other two heroes,"Good job Scar.Whats up Vengeance?"He starts to pull out his cell-phone when from the trees to the north west near the lake,a strange man walks out.He has a look of excitement on his face,"I have already phoned the police.Amazing...simply amazing..."Vengeance looks over at the slumped form of Magnalak,"It seems you guys have this under control.What his story?"Scar concentrates a moment and the electricity arcing about his body ceases."I feel drained, I must rest. First let me tell you what I know of the visitor. I saw him in my mind's eyes. He appeared as the others did but this one was here to cause havoc. He claims to be a conqueror and from his own voice we were nothing but a test for him. A test he failed. This one and the others from last night maybe connected in some way. I must now go rest.",he says looking drained.He starts to walk toward the west when the strange man holds out a micro-cassette recorder,"Wait a minute,wait a minute!!.Can I speak with you guys?I'm Todd Jaworski,Associated Press reporter.Can I get an interview?I know Vengeance of the Guardians but who are you other two?You'll both be in my report so it would be best if I had something to call you.Do you mean this is connected to the explosion at Buchanan Park?How?..."As the man is finishing his high speed speech Vengeance's badge beeps and sirens are heard in the distance.
2:20-2:30 pm Vengeance floats and and westward toward the Arboghast Hospital(Area 13,15).He disappears around the corner of the building.Poundage looks at Mr.Jaworski and says,"I am Poundage and I would appreciate no interview until we know what is going on."Scar swats the micro-cassette recorder away from his face and says,"The fall of your culture begins with leeches like this!!".He continues to walk away to the west,quickening his steps."What's wrong with your bony friend?",Jaworski ask a little haughtily.Two police cruisers screech to a halt at the northern edge of the park and their doors fly open.Mr.Jaworski looks in their direction,then to Poundage,"If you don't mind I'll just hang around,maybe when your finished I can get a couple comments."From one of the police cars a bear of a man emerges.He glances in the direction of Poundage then to the downed Magnalak.He says something to the three police officers emerging the their vehicles and they begin gathering equipment from the car's trunks.The large man pulls out a cigar,lights it and slowly saunters toward Poundage.When he is a few feet from Poundage he takes a puff from the cigar and in a gruff voice says,"I am Sgt.Wojokowski,Special Crimes Unit.I don't know what you are called,but I understand you are a friend of the Guardians.What happened here?"
2:30-2:40 pm "I am Poundage, if you don't mind, I would prefer to speak to you privately. This reporter wants to know what has happened and why, we don't even know. I suggest you take the prisoner to the station and I will be there shortly after to give the accounts of the fight."Sgt.Warjokowski nods,"Come to the roof of the District #1 Station.I will come out once your there."He turns and scowls at the reporter,grumbles a "No comment." and begins walking toward the police officers already placing Magnalak,bound in a large mechanical vest,into a waiting police van.Poundage leaps to the rooftop of the Arboghast Hospital(Area 13),trying to catch Vengeance as he floats by."Heard your badge, is something going on? If so, I will help. If not I need to get to the police station to give an account of the event.",he says as Vengeance stops near the rooftop.
2:40-2:50 pm Vengeance stops a moment,"Wraith says that in his time the earth was visited by three of these warriors.They have apparently placed the planet on their 'honor list'.He says we can expect to see more of them until one claims the honor for the planet.""Thanks."replies Poundage and leaps away. He bounds across town till he reaches the District One headquarters.He lands on the roof and waits a couple minutes when Sgt. Warjokowski exits the roof access door.As usual a large stogie is stuck between his teeth."All right Poundage,you wanna do this up here or down in my office?I have some questions for ya and the first is what was that being and how the hell did he disappear from the back of my containment van?",he ask steadily watching Poundage.
2:50-3:00 pm "Wherever you think is best, Wojo." Poundage answers,"From what I can figure out,this is a warrior from another planet. Apparently, Earth is on some kind of honor list on his home planet. Scar and myself heard screaming and saw mass chaos in the park. This "warrior" called himself a Magni warior and spoke of his honor staff."Sgt.Warjokowski looks down and mumbles,"First time travelers...now aliens...what next?"Poundage continues,"As far as how he disappeared, I figure his home has some kind of teleportation device. That is all I can figure out. So what other questions do you have?"Sgt. Warjokowski stubs out the cigar and rubs his temples,"Since I have no prisoner I really have no questions on that front.Are you affiliated with the Guardians?I think they can be a force for good in the city but I am in the process of building the S.C.U to help deal with and detain these meta-humans.I would like to test the viability of meta-humans as part of this.Would you be interested in it at all?It would all be under the table,so to speak.Until we have the whole thing fleshed out."
3:00-3:10 pm "Are you talking about testing my abilities to discover things about other meta-humans? If so, no I am not interested. I am not willing to be a "guinea pig". That would be like letting someone know my weaknesses.",Poundage states.Sgt.Warjokowski looks at the sky,studying the dark clouds gathering there,"No,that's not what I meant.I need a team of heroes willing to help protect the city,with my help and information.It would give me the time I need to get everything together and get the S.C.U up and running.Also those heroes would have a good chance of becoming part of that.The past couple of days prove the city needs protection and I am unsure I can trust these New Guardians to do that."Poundage too looks to the sky then continues,"No, I am not affiliated with the Guardians. Right now I feel that I am better off by myself. As soon as you join a group, you become responsible for other people's actions as well as your own. I would rather not be associated with a man that uses a ship to obliterate another person."Sgt.Warjokowski pulls another cigar from his jacket,"We are both on the same page there.Think about my offer.If you wish to discuss it more just come here and I will be up to see you."He sticks out his massive paw,eyes locked on Poundage.
3:10-3:20 pm "I'll think about it and get back to you.",Poundage says and leaps away,not looking back.He is surprised by a loud thunder clap that announces the downpour that begins.The rain starts lightly but builds in intensity until it is a steady pour.
3:20-3:30 pm The rain pours down making Poundage very wet and very uncomfortable.He is bounding by the hospital when he hears a voice below hollering his name.He looks down and sees a solitary figure looking up toward him.He looks closer and sees that the figure is the skeletal Scar.
3:30-3:40 pm Poundage leaps over to where Scar stands near the hospital,in the pouring rain.Scar says,"I have had another vision.It occurs at either dusk or dawn,but the sky is clear.A grey clad man clinging to a flying stick goes to the hospital roof.Something happens,of this I am unsure,but the hospital explodes.Coming from the explosion is a large,very stong man carrying a large piece of machinery.All I can see of him is yellow arms with blue wrist bands.I think we may need the others."Poundage takes a moment to let it all sink in then replies,"Hey Scar, I think we need to talk to Wraith about this. He seems to know quite a bit about these warriors. He says they are responsible for the downfall of the Guardians. Let's get a hold of the Guardians and see if we can't talk to him." Poundage pulls out a cellphone and dials.After a moment he hears,"This is base..."Poundage says,"This is Poundage,I need to speak to Wraith.""Hold please..."After a few moments Poundage hears Wraith,"Yes Poundage ,go ahead..."
3:40-3:50 pm Poundage speaks into his phone,"Wraith, this is Poundage.I have been contacted by Scar and he has had another vision.It happens at dawn or dusk on a clear day.It includes a gray man that clings to a flying stick flying to the hospital.Something happens and the hospital explodes.After the explosion a large,very strong man leaves the explosion carrying a large piece of machinery,The only thing he sees of this man is yellow arms with blue wrist bands.Do you know anything that can help us, like how to stop this guy, or if it is a bomb, where is it. Anything you know from your past will help. Also, notify Vengeance and Galen of the vision. We may need help with this one."It takes a few moments before Wraith answers,"Both Galen and Vengeance are here with me.It's a little vague on the people and right now I can't think of anyone to match those descriptions.But one clue in the vision is it happens at dusk or dawn ON A CLEAR DAY.Do we know how far in the future his visions go?We can assume dusk today will not be clear.Ask Scar if he knows the time limit on his visions and I will see what I can dig up in the base computer."
3:50-4:00 pm Scar says,"Teaming with you was a pleasure. Perhaps the Guardians need to expand their roster to include you and the others. As you can see the city is in great peril and in need of the Guardians. None the less, we should station ourselves close to the hospital until we get help. This event may take place once the storm has cleared.Can you bounce us to the roof?"Poundage looks up from the phone and asks,"What is the time limit on you visions?How far in the future can they reach?"
4:00-4:10 pm "I really do not feel as though I need to be on a "team" as of right now. I can bounce us to the roof. I was also offered a spot on some "super police" squad. Do you know exactly how far into the future your visions can be? Can you describe the machinery that the man is carrying? Maybe if we figure out what it is, it will jar Wraith's memory.",Poundage ask Scar.Scar replies,"I believe about 24 hours.And the little view I got of the machinery all I can say was it was very large." Poundage pulls the phone back to his mouth, "Do you know when the storm is going to break? I don't. Hence, we must be prepared at all times. Having the hospital blow up is not something I want to allow to happen if I can avoid it. Scar and myself are going to stake out the roof for now."He hears Wraith say,"That won't be needed,the storm will last into the night.If Scar's vision reach 24 hours in the future that tells us the event probably happens at dawn tomorrow."
4:10-4:20 pm Poundage flips his phone off and turns to Scar,"Wraith has checked the weather and the storm is supposed to last into the night.That means the event you describe won't happen till morning.I believe I will go on and patrol the city a little more.I will be back here by dawn."Scar nods and replies,"I too will be back."Poundage leaps away to continue his patrol and Scar begins his walk home.
4:20-5:40 pm Poundage continues his patrol through the pouring rain.
5:40-5:50 pm Poundage continues his patrol through the pouring rain.He spots some movement on the roof tops below and focuses there.There seems to be a gray and pink costumed man carrying a sword moving about.Poundage lands on a nearby roof top and suddenly sees a bright flame shooting across the sky.Studying it he realizes it's not just a flame but a flaming man flying past.
5:50-6:00 pm Poundage stands and watches as the sword man continues moving about the roof tops.He doesn't seem to be heading in any general direction but moves about the roofs,looking down to the streets below and moving on.Poundage looks to the sky to find the flaming man.He seems to be circling about also.
6:00-6:10 Poundage looks down to the roof top and sees that the sword man is looking up at him.Nervously he scans the sky again but is unable to spot the flaming man.He returns his attention to the sword man below,contemplating his next move.
6:10-6:20 pm Poundage makes up his mind and leaps.He flies in a graceful arc,landing neatly in front of the sword man."Who are you and what are you doing?",he ask,taking a defensive stance.
6:20-6:30 pm The sword man also takes a defensive stance,"I am called the Black Knight.I am here to protect this city.Now I turn the question back to you.Who are you and what are you doing here?"
6:30-6:40 pm "Some protector of the city you are,drawing your sword on a Midville hero? Watch the local news lately? I am Poundage, sworn protector of Midville. My purpose of being here is to find out who the hell you are. If you choose to protect the city, then we shall be just fine. If not however, you will pay the consequences.",Poundage says."An ally of mine has the ability to see into the future.He has seen an explosion at the Arboghast Hospital(Area 13,15).It will happen at dawn or dusk tomorrow,probably dawn.If you choose to protect the city, you will not pass this opportunity to prove yourself. If you are ever in need, do not hesitate to call." Poundage gives him his cell phone number.The Black Knight takes the slip of paper then turns his head toward a mass of air conditioning units about 15 feet to the left of the two heroes."SSHHH...Someone or something is behind those A.C units."
6:40-6:50 pm Without moving Poundage speaks,loudly,"Show yourself coward, I can see your enormous head."Black Knight just stands there waiting for something to happen.
6:50-7:00 pm From behind the A.C. unit and costumed man stands."I mean you know harm.I am a hero here in Midville and was making sure you weren't up to no good."He walks slowly around the A.C. units to stand near Poundage and Black Knight.
7:00-7:10 pm "I am Poundage sworn protector of Midville.",Poundage says.The new stranger looks at him for a long moment then replies,"I am called Pyro and I am new to the city."They both turn to the Black Knight who says,"I must be going."The Black Knight runs off leaping from roof top to roof top.
7:10-7:20 pm Poundage looks at Pyro,"I hope to see you around.I have an ally that sees the future and I believe something happens at the St.Arboghast Hospital tomorrow at dawn.If you are a hero you will be there."He then turns and bounds off,continuing his patrol.
7:20-7:30 pm As Poundage is jumping about the city Pyro flies overhead and then hovers nearby."Is there anyway I can get a hold of you besides hunting you down?"
7:30-7:40 pm The rain has slowed to a drizzle as Poundage gives Pyro his cell number,"Just call this number, anyway to get a hold of you?"Pyro answers by giving Poundage his personal address and phone number,"Get a hold of me whenever you need me."The two then turn and go their separate ways.
8:00-8:10 pm Poundage decides to end his patrol.He bounds home and quietly makes his way in his window.He changes out of costume and goes to the kitchen to whip up a bite before going to bed.
8:10-8:20 pm Joe finishes his dinner and sits to eat.
8:20-8:30 pm Joe blissfully watches TV as he eats.When he is finished he takes the dishes to the kitchen and begins cleaning up.
8:30-8:40 pm Joe finishes his clean up and heads to bed.
12:50-4:30 am Joe sleeps until the buzzing of the alarm wakes him at 4 am.He groggily stumbles to the bathroom and relieves himself.He looks at himself in the mirror,rubs his eyes.Turning from the mirror,he walks back to his bedroom and changes into costume.Minutes later he is out his window and bounding toward the hospital.
4:30-4:40 pm Poundage bounds around the hospital but is unable to find anything out of the ordinary.He decides he will stay in the area,believing Scar's vision will come to pass.
4:40-5:50 am Poundage bounds about in the general vicinity of the hospital,amongst the empty streets.He spends the next hour checking the area,going back and forth.On one of his passes by the hospital he notices Wraith flying around the hospital.
5:40-5:50 am Vengeance watches as Vyra flies about the hospital.
5:50-6:10 am Poundage watches as Wraith flies around the hospital.After a little time he watches Wraith fly low and grab Lord Galen,who seems to be climbing the side of the hospital.
6:10-6:40 am Poundage continues to watch the hospital.
6:40-7:10 am As he watches the hospital Poundage notices Maxi-Miss below,looking about.Hoping to see ScarPoundage continues to look about.
7:10-7:20 am Bounding about on the east side of the hospital,Poundage suddenly sees a large yellow man land on a rooftop to the east and also notices a grey man hanging from a flying stick a little further north.
7:20 am (Phase 24) Unseen.(Phase 23)The large yellow man quickly climbs down from the roof top he is on."We seem to have a welcoming committee,Shattarang.",he says as he dashes across the alley and climbs the the building Poundage is standing on."Don't you feel welcome?",he quips as he cocks his large fist and swings at Poundage.Poundage reacts quickly enough to dodge the blow as the two now stand face to face.Vyra soars off the rooftop.She slows to a hover about 30 yards away from the new-comer pair. Reaching out her hands she generates a force field around the large yellow man. "What business do you have here?" She yells to him.He looks at her with a funny grin,"Why,my dear,I wish to visit.The hospital has a certain piece of machinery I wish to borrow.You would be smart not to interfere."
7:20 am (Phase 18) Scar saves his turn.(Phase 17)Hanging from the stick,which the heroes now see is actually a large boomerang,Shattarang flies over to a building behind the large yellow man and drops to the roof."Hey Andromeda!I have a welcoming gift of my own for the young lady."He motions with his hand and the large boomerang zooms at high speed toward Vyra.The boomerang smacks her directly in the stomach.She lets out a loud "oooofffff" and flies backwards 65 feet,falls the three stories to the street below,landing in a heap in the intersection.(Phase 16)Vengeance flies over and hovers behind Poundage.He concentrates a moment and remains ready.Poundage looks at his opponent,balls up his fist and swings.He is sure he is going to connect when Andromeda's head stretches out of the way of his fist and Poundage is left punching air.Maxi-Miss screams,"Vyra!".One moment she is standing on a roof to the south of the battle and the next she is standing next to Vyra in the intersection.She crouches to check Vyra and finds she is out cold,but not seriously injured.She looks in the direction of Shattarang,"You will pay,mister."
7:20 am (Phase 9)Lord Galen concentrates and ice begins to cover his body.(Phase 8)Andromeda looks into Poundage's eyes.I smile begins to grow on his face.He raises his large fist over his head and brings them crashing down on Poundage.As he hits the fist glow for just a moment.Poundage takes the hit without flinching.(Phase 3)Scar starts moving eastward,following Lord Galen.Around his body electric starts to pop and crack.He dashes eastward and stops when he comes to a blue and white woman standing over Vyra,who is unconscious in the street.Looking about he sees the large yellow man from his vision standing on a rooftop,smiling.The gray man from his vision is standing on another roof top farther east.(Phase 2)Shattarang looks at Vengeance,"Heads up ugly!Meet Shattarang!"Again he motions with his hands and the large boomerang flies around his back and speeds at Vengeance.It glances off the force field and hangs in the air near Vengeance.
7:20 am (Phase 1)Vengeance concentrates,letting his force field drop.Raising his arms he says,"Your the ugliest Motherf****r here doush bag."Moving forward a little to be in range,he lets loose with a Magnetic blast that skips past Shattarang."Ooohh such a potty mouth.",quips Shattarang.Poundage places a hand to his cheek and gives Andromeda a puzzled look."Wait, was that supposed to hurt?"He leaps into the air,spins in mid-jump and lands behind Andromeda."This might tickle a little, big guy.",he says,pointing his wrist blaster.Again Andromeda warps himself around the shot and it dissipates harmlessly behind him."Ha ha..didn't even feel it fellow.",Andromeda states.Down on the street Scar nods to the "strange" woman and says, " I do not know your face but I can tell that you are here to help. Help the others and I will tend to the fallen heroine."Maxi-Miss gives Scar a concerned looks then smiles.She dashes up the street and climbs one of the buildings.When she reaches the top she runs across the roof to the opposite side.She raises her arms and screams,"O.K. a*****e,no one messes with the Sentinels!!"The power blast leaps out and catches Shattarang in the chest.He flies backwards 40 feet and crashes into a chimney.(Phase 0)On the street Scar checks Vyra.She is out but not seriously injured.Vyra moans a little but remains unconscious.(Turn 2 Phase 31)Andromeda spins around to face Poundage."You are an insignificant nothing.I'm out of your league."His massive fist raises again,connecting with Poundage's chest.Again Poundage takes the blow without moving.
7:20 am (Phase 21)Vengeance turns to find the boomerang still hanging in mid air,10 feet above the roof top.He reaches out with his Magnetic abilities and grabs the boomerang."What league, the UCSL, united cocksuckers league? No thanks, I'll stay out."says Poundage and jumps over Andromeda to land in the street behind him.He turns and gathers his rage.He focuses his emotions and tries to exert control over Andromeda's.Andromeda seems unfazed by this.Scar picks up Vyra and hastily takes her into the hospital for help.He runs north and into the door there.Inside he sees a large room,almost empty of people,and a nurse behind the desk.Placing Vyra in a nearby wheelchair he ask the nurse to care for her and to call the police,the building is under attack.
7:20 am (Phase 18)Lord Galen waits on the hospital roof,waiting for the battle to get that far.(Phase 16)Andromeda grimaces,"You are a fool...I do not abide fools."His arm shoots outward,reaching for Poundage.Poundage dodges left and the massive hand misses him.(Phase 13)Maxi-Miss climbs down the side of the building,dashes across the alley and climbs the wall to the roof of the building Shattarang is on.She raise her arms again,"This is for Vyra,a*****e!"The blast leaps forward and strikes the chimney next to Shattarang.(Phase 10)Shattarang gets to his feet,a sly smile on his face.He gestures with his arm again and the boomerang is ripped from Vengeance's magnetic grasp.It swoops about,zipping toward Maxi-Miss.It crashes into Maxi-Miss's back,sending her flying forward to smash into the chimney next to Shattarang.
7:20 am (Phase 6)Vengeance floats forward to get into range and lets loose a magnetic blast.Shattarang ducks and the blast nicks a brick out of the chimney behind him.Shattarang smiles,"Ah,two against one..beauty and the beast..."Back on the street Poundage again leaps into the air,spins and lands behind Andromeda.He balls his fist and takes a swing.The blow goes straight at Andromeda's head,but a split second before it connects the head stretches left and Poundage misses.
7:20 am (Phase 3)Scar turns to Lord Galen and asks, "What is the situation? Vyra is in the hands of the medics."Lord Galen stands silent,somber.(Phase 1)Andromeda spins to face Poundage,"I tire of these games,you delay me from my intended task."His arm shoots forward and an immense fist grabs Poundage,pinning his arms to his side.The fist flashes momentarily and begins squeezing.
7:20 am (Phase 0)Scar turns his attention to the battle across the buildings. He says to Lord Galen, "They are losing, they need our help, take me there!!!"Lord Galen,covered in ice,turns to Scar,"I cannot fly.I can only run as fast as I can."As Scar watches,the ice around Lord Galen starts to thicken.(Phase 24 Turn 3)Andromeda looks up at Poundage,caught in his grasp,"I will squeeze you like a bug.Let my face be the last you see."The fist holding Poundage continues squeezing.He turns and starts walking eastward,toward the hospital.As he reaches the edge of the roof his legs stretch and he just simply continues walking.He comes to the lower section and again his legs stretch enough to allow him to just step forward onto the roof of the three story section.Sauntering to the higher section,he stretches his legs the full ten stories and politely steps onto the highest roof of the hospital,slightly shocked to see Lord Galen and Scar there.He holds Poundage over the edge behind him as he speaks,"More irritations.Either of you make a move and your pal here winds up a puddle on the roof below.Leave the area and don't turn back."
7:20 am (Phase 21)Poundage gathers a breath and uses all his strength to try and break Andromeda's grasp.He struggles,his face reddens but the immense hand holds.He is unable to break free.Andromeda turns to look at the struggling hero,"You are stronger than you look.But your fate is sealed.Your life will be snuffed out at the hands of ANDROMEDA!"He turns back to the two heroes standing before him.
OOG:As the GM I knew your escape try would fail,but your character wouldn't know that until he tried.
7:20 am (Phase 20)"Galen,you want to help or stand there like an ass!",Vengeance screams as he floats over to the hospital roof,taking a postion floating above and behind Galen and Scar.Raising both arms,Vengeance lets loose a magnetic blast.It skims past Andromeda's mid-section as he twist his body out of the way.Andromeda snarls,"That was a close one.You shall die like your friend,flying one."
7:20 am (Phase 17)Lord Galen raises his ice covered arms and lets loose an ice attack aimed at Andromeda.The cold blast strikes him and he grimaces.The upper left part of his body is covered in ice and the arm holding Poundage sags a little.(Phase 13)Scar says "It is you who should seize your moment. We have been warned of your coming. Submit, or fall!!" as he aims his staff.An arc of electricity leaps outward but Andromeda deftly twist his body to allow the shot to pass right by him.Andromeda studies Scar for a moment,"Warned?Impossible!Name your source!"Further eastward Maxi-Miss turns to face the grinning Shattarang."Hey monkey face,stick this in your toothy smile!"She extends her arms and another power blast rips forward from blank range.The shot deflects slightly as it nears Shattarang and zooms off over the rooftops.Shattarang's grin only gets bigger,"I love my women feisty...give it to me baby."He motions with his arm and the boomerang zips toward Maxi-Miss.Alerted by the gesture she ducks just in time,allowing the boomerang to fly right on by.(Phase 9)Andromeda swings Poundage in a long arc,like a large ballbat.Poundage strikes Lord Galen squarely,sending ice shards flying.
7:20 am (Phase 6)Poundage again struggles to get out of Andromeda's grasp.He is unable to break free but feels the grip isn't as strong as it was before."So glad to see you like me so much Andromeda, but you're not my type.",he quips,trying to catch his breath.Andromeda smiles,"Your right,fool.I do not like dead men."(Phase 5)Vengeance watches with concern as Andromeda grips his friend.A look of concentration crosses his face as his arms raise.The magnetic shot released is easily dodged by Andromeda,his body contorting in ways that seem impossible.
7:20 am (Phase 2)Lord Galen watches as Poundage struggles in Andromeda's grasp.Again he raises his arms,a blast of cold shooting forth.Andromeda stretches to dodge the blast and the it strikes Poundage.Poundage grunts and is slightly shaken by it,as 800 pounds of ice cling to him.(Phase 29,Turn 4)Andomeda laughs loudly,"What a bunch of heroes we have here!Do yourselves a favor and leave before I am forced to kill the lot of you!"He,again,swings Poundage like a club.Poundage crashes into Lord Galen with a mighty crash.The ice around Poundage serves as a little armor,but is shattered by the hit.Galen's armor sends ice shards flying,but does protect him.(Phase 24)Vengeance looks about,studying Andromeda,looking eastward toward Shattarang.He is unable to see any form of bomb,nor device of any kind save the boomerang flying about the sky and it hasn't shown the ability to explode.
7:20 am (Phase 22)Lord Galen focuses on Andromeda and takes aim again.The ice blast is easily dodged by Andromeda and falls harmlessly to the roof below.(Phase 19)further east Shattarang smiles at Maxi-Miss,"Your friends left us all alone...wanna dance?"Behind him the boomerang makes a graceful arc in the sky and speeds toward Maxi-Miss.She tries to feint left but the boomerang smashes into her right shoulder.She flies backwards almost 20 feet and falls the 2 stories to the dirt lot below.Her body remains motionless as Shattarang mutters to himself,"Dance over,missy."(Phase 18)Scar looks about the battle field.Things are not going well,two heroes down and Poundage is helpless in Andromeda's grasp.He feels that if things don't improve his vision will come to pass soon.Raising his staff,he lets loose a burst of electricity.Warping his torso about it,Andromeda is able to stay out of the way and the charge dissipates in the morning sky behind him.
7:20 am (Phase 14)Andromeda swings Poundage one more time,a large smile on his face.Poundage arcs high and crashes down on Lord Galen.The impact sends Lord Galen flying backwards,all the way to the edge of the roof.He lands awkwardly and remains motionless,just inches from falling.(Phase 9)Vengeance looks about and taps his badge,"Things are not looking good right now.Base do you have any suggestions?"He floats down to stand where Lord Galen was,facing Andromeda.The base replies,"I calculate two alternatives.Massive damage per blow,perhaps a heavy,fast flying projectile....or release Poundage by aiming for the hand that holds him.Poundage's strength is needed...also beware the second meta-human should be joining the fray shortly...his female opponent is down...I calculate a percentage chance of success under five percent..."As he listens,Vengeance swings a fist at Andromeda.The punch is easily dodged by Andromeda and Andromeda is almost mocking them now.(Phase 4)In the east Shattarang waits as the boomerang swoops down low and slows to a stop in front of him.He reaches out and grasp the boomerang,looks west toward the hospital,"Get the party ready boys.Here I come."(Phase 3)There is a look of concentration on Scar's face as he stares down the behemoth in front of him.He concentrates hard but says nothing.
7:20 am (Phase 0)Scar smiles slightly and raise his staff.He takes aim at Andromeda and a bolt of lightning leaps forward.It connects with Andromeda squarely in the chest.He staggers back slightly and turns a burning gaze at Scar."That actually hurt.You will be the next to fall."
7:20 am (Phase 30)Andromeda raise his fist,holding Poundage and brings it down with a crash.The impact sends Scar flying backwards,landing in a heap next to Lord Galen.One of his arms moves slightly then he remains motionless.Andromeda turns his gaze to Vengeance,"I suppose you will be stupid enough to wind up like your friends?"(Phase 16)Vengeance watches Scar's body fly past and taps his badge,"Base,notify the police if that has not already been done."He raises his arms and aims at the immense hand holding Poundage.The base replies as the magnetic blast erupts,"The hospital is in the process of calling the police...my records show they do not have the ability to contain the meta-human,Andromeda..."The magnetic blast is right on target but Andromeda stretches the hand just out of the way.To the east Shattarang rides the boomerang at breakneck speed toward the hospital.As it flies over the roof he drops and motions the boomerang toward Vengeance.It zips into Vengeance hitting him in the right side.He goes flying about 25 feet,landing just at the edge of the roof,bleeding profusely.Shattarang looks at Poundage,"Fun party..." and begins laughing.
7:21 am (Phase 15)Andromeda pulls Poundage close to his face as he steps toward the roof entrance.Poundage can barely hear him over the raucous laughter coming from Shattarang."You are a fighter,small one,that I grant.I will have to try to emulate that when I create my armies."He holds Poundage near his face as his fist squeezes.(Phase 14)Poundage tries to ignore the pain and concentrates.He pushes waves of fear in the direction of Andromeda but sees no change in the large being.(Phase 1)Shattarang stops his giggling long enough to hurl the boomerang at the roof access door.The door shatters,leaving free access to the stairs below.Shattarang looks back at Andromeda and after Andromeda gives him a nod,dashes down the stairs.(Phase 22 Turn 6)Andromeda continues to squeeze,taking a strange fascination in watching as Poundage grunts and groans.
7:21 am (Phase 19)Poundage hears some banging and clanging coming from the stairwell Shattarang just disappeared into.He concentrates,again trying to send a wave of fear at Andromeda. "Damn,you need a mint. Let me go and I'll give you a Tic Tac?",Poundage quips as he sees no change in the man holding him.(Phase 7)Andromeda continues to squeeze,"I admire your fortitude,little man.Able to joke as the breath is squeezed out of you.A pity it won't be much longer."
7:21 am (Phase 4)"I have something you can suck on. I didn't know this was supposed to hurt. Why don't you just give up now before you really piss me off?",Poundage says with a smile and once again tries to send a wave of fear at Andromeda.Again he sees no change in the big man.(Phase 27,Turn 7)The smile on Andromeda's face disappears and is replaced with a scowl,"I shall squeeze the wise cracks out of you puny one.Then I shall toss you away like yesterday's garbage."He continues squeezing,even breathing is starting to be a labor for Poundage.
7:21 am (Phase 13)From inside the hospital Poundage hears another loud crash and a couple screams.(Phase 12)Andromeda squeezes some more,watching Poundage intently,"If I had more time to play I would smear your innards around this hospital.But there is something I must retrieve,but I promise you...we will meet again."
7:21-7:30 am (Phase 0)Poundage is getting desperate but continues to try to send waves of fear at Andromeda.He studies the face before him for any sign of fear.The face remains passive,but slightly angry.(Phase 23,Turn 8)Andromeda continues to squeeze,his face a model of concentration.Poundage starts to slump and finally remains still.Andromeda studies him for a few moments then drops the limp body.He turns to the roof access and disappears.
7:30-9:30 am Poundage wakes to find himself in a large hospital room.As he looks around he sees 5 other beds with his fellow heroes in them.In one of the beds Vengeance seems to be stirring also.He shakes his head to find wires attached there,more at different points around his body.Within moments he sees Sgt.Wojokowski stride into the room.He stands hands on hips and starts to reach into his pocket for the cigar there,then grimaces as he realizes where he is."Glad to see you two up and about.We have a lot of reporters outside that want in to talk to you guys,but I have ordered them to stay out.I need to know what happened,what are we up against here."
9:30-9:40 am Vengeance looks at Wojo,"Where are we?"The sergeant replies,"You are in the meta wing of Arboghast Hospital(Area 13,15).The hospital was damaged in the attack but because of early warning the damage isn't too bad."Vengeance nods and continues,"We got our ass handed to us by two superpowered guys who were looking for hospital equipment."Wojokowski turns to face Poundage as Poundage speaks up,"To tell you the truth, I don't know what it is that we are up against. All I know is that the big stretching dude is a bad motherfucker. I don't think we will see much more of them since they got what they want. By the way, what did they take?""It was some sort of genetic resequencer...manipulater...doohickie.The doctors were using in the genetic mutation research.I have a feeling that may not be the last we see of him.I have the research team at the SCU working on a neutralizer but it's a little complicated.",Wojokowski says as a doctor in a lab coat walks in."Good to see you two up,how are you feeling?You both are a little beat up but nothing serious.I would like all of you to stay till your recovered but I can't keep you unless you agree."
9:40-9:50 am Vengeance looks at the doctor,"I am afraid I can not stay here,but if there are any more questions I will answer them for you if I can.If not I should probably be on my way."The doctor's attention turns to Poundage as he speaks,"Well unfortunately doc, I need out tomorrow. I lead a "double life" and need to take care of some things on friday, but I can return after that if it will help me heal."After a moment the doc replies,"Like I said I can't hold you,but staying will definitely speed the healing process.The sergeant has vouched for all of you so you are welcome to return."Vengeance gets to his feet,a little unsteady,"By the way how is everyone else?We had no casualties did we?"Sgt.Wojo nods to the doctor and the doc turns to leave."No casualties among your meta friends,but we did have 9 patients killed,32 injured when the villains knocked down a large section of the exterior wall.Considering the damage that could have been done if the hospital hadn't had some warning,we were lucky."Poundage slams a fist into his palm,"Wojo, we need this neutralizer quick, so if there is anyway I can help, let me know."The corners of Wojo's mouth drop as he replies,"We are close to being able to neutralize a couple meta-abilities,but the sheer number of different abilities make the task even harder.Unless your a research scientist or engineer in your 'other' life the only help you can give at this moment is as a guinea pig for testing.",Wojo says and looks at Vengeance."I believe you Guardians and I need to come to an understanding,a connection between my department and your team needs to be looked at.Until my officers are outfitted with some better armor I need someone to stop menaces like this."His eyes glance toward Poundage,"And the offer still stands Poundage.An SCU sponsored team,temporarily,could do a lot of good for the city."
9:50-10:00 am "Maybe we should plan a meeting for Saturday at 3 pm.",Vengeance offers.Wojo nods,"Yeah...stop by the roof of the police headquarters.Bring any other Guardians that might have a say."Vengeance taps his badge and mutters "Enter".He disappears as Wojo shakes his head again,"Never will get used to that..."He turns as Poundage starts to speak,"Well doc, I will leave in the morning and come back sometime tomorrow."Stopping at the door the doc nods and exits.Poundage takes a deep breath,"Wojo,can you come by the hospital tomorrow evening? We will talk about the SCU then. As far as being a guinea pig, I'll have to think about that one."He is surprised by the deep,rolling laughter that comes from the sergeant and can't help but smile."I will never understand you people...",Wojo manages to say as his laughter dies down."I didn't mean you could be a guinea pig,but...."He smiles at Poundage and continues,"I will stop by tomorrow evening.Until then get some rest.I will leave orders that the press stay out.You will probably see me again later today,I plan to come back as the others wake,perhaps they can give me some info also."Pulling a cigar from his pocket he turns smartly and walks from the room.Poundage glances around the room at the other comatose heroes and shrugs his shoulders.Grabbing the remote he flips the TV on and starts to channel surf.
10:00-10:30 am Poundage sits watching TV,just surfing the channels,trying to stay away from those damn soaps.After a small time he notices some stirring from Lord Galen's bed.Suddenly Galen sits up and looks around,and seconds later Wojo walks in followed by the doc.Wojo looks at Galen,"So our third wakes.How do you feel?"
10:30-10:40 am Lord Galen grabs his head and shakes it a little,"What happened? Where am I? Is everyone alright?"Sgt.Warjokowski opens his mouth to answer when Poundage replies,"You mean you don't remember gayman?!As if you can't tell this is a hospital. If everyone was alright, would we be here?!"He snatches the styrofoam cup on the stand beside his bed and holds it out toward Galen,"By the way, my water is warm, you got some ice?"The two heroes stare at each other for long seconds when Warjokowski steps between them,"O.K. fellows...hard day...Lord Galen you are in the Arboghast hospital(Area 13,15).What happened was a large yellow meta and an accomplice plowed through most of the metas in Midville,broke into this very hospital and got away with a very large and very expensive genetic doohickie."From behind the sergeant the doctor mutters,"Genetic Recombinator..."Flashing a steely glance at the doctor Wojo continues,"In the process he did some damage to the hospital,killing 9 patients and injuring 32 more.Fortunately the battle outside the hospital gave us enough warning to keep the damage from being even worse.At this time there is a hoard of media outside,clamoring for some answers that I can't give.Perhaps you can shed some light on the events for me."
10:40-10:50 am Lord Galen looks at Poundage. "Gayman? I didn't see you do anything but give the big man something to hold onto. Were you enjoying his touch?" He then turns to Wojo, "Let the red and yellow asshole give you the answers you need. He thinks he's a hot shot or something. I need to go find some answers." He then touches his badge and says "Enter."As he disappears,Wojokowski slams his fist into the table next to him,"Damn it!!I hate when they do that!!"Poundage looks with shock at the empty bed where Lord Galen was."Didn't mean to offend him, I just remember attacking a super villain while he turned into an iceberg. It doesn't matter, I don't think I'm a hot shot. I'm not the one not worried about healing. I know I got my ass kicked. I'm just pissed off about it."Wojo turns with a grumble and stomps to the door.Over his shoulder he mumbles,"I'll be back when the others wake..."and exits.
11:00-11:30 Poundage continues to watch 'SportsCenter',trying not to be bored.After awhile there is some stirring from one of the beds and the unknown woman sits up slowly and mumbles,"Anyone get the number of that boomerang?....oohhhh my head..."A couple seconds pass when Sgt. Warjokowski again strides in with the doctor right on his heels.The unknown meta looks up as he walks in and her eyes get wide.The sgt. looks at her with a slight bit of suspicion,"How are you feeling,miss?"Looking frightened,the woman quietly says,"I've been better and you can call me Maxi-Miss,sergeant."The steely eyes study the girl and Poundage can almost see her shaking,"How are you involved in this incident and what can you tell me?"The woman shrinks back from his gaze,"As a member of the Sentinels,I received warning that something may happen at the hospital.I showed up to find the large yellow guy and a guy that called himself Shattarang threatening the hospital.I tried to take the Shattarang dude on and he got a lucky shot on me."Wojo reaches to his pocket and grimaces.His hand leaves his pocket and starts to rub his chin,"Sentinels?Warning?Who are these Sentinels and what warning?"
11:30-11:40 "Maxi-Miss, I am Poundage, thanks for your help.",Poundage says to the obviously frightened woman.She shoots him a strange look,"Your welcome.I was just trying to save the hospital."A little annoyed at the tone in her voice Poundage turns back to Wojo," Sorry Wojo, didn't mean to interrupt. Now you can tell the story for the 4th time."Wojo shoots him a questioning look and Maxi-Miss speaks up,"Vyra there has started her own group,feeling the Guardians were a little,well,let's say 'exclusive'.We learned from Scar,the skeletal guy over there,that there was something going to happen at the hospital.He seems to have the power of premonition."The sergeant takes a moment to digest the information,his hand wandering to his pocket again,"Anything else you can tell me about this incident?"Maxi-Miss thinks hard on the question,taking her time."Well,this Shattarang,he's a professional.Just the way he fought,carried himself.I got the impression he was there for the fight,like he didn't have any kind of personal stake in the outcome.The yellow guy just didn't seem ...well...human."Wojo waits a moment,wanting to be sure the woman is finished.Then he speaks,almost to himself,"A hired gun perhaps...that helps a little.You are welcome to stay at the hospital until you are healthy.If and when you leave I would find a way to sneak out,there are reporters from every rag in this part of the state just looking for a story."he turns to leave and then stops,"I will be very interested in speaking to this Scar.Did you say he was a member of these Sentinels?"Maxi-Miss looks at the sergeant trying to figure out what is going through his mind."No not a Sentinel...yet...",she answers with just a hint of a smile as she glances at Poundage.Wojo shakes his head slightly,"I will be seeing you two again,soon."He exits the room,the doctor in tow.Maxi-Miss sits quietly for a moment then glances at Poundage,"I don't see a badge...you a Guardian?"
11:40-11:50 am "No not a Guardian, after the whole fiasco with your "leader", I decided to stay away from both. For some reason I am always associated with the Guardians. They had a big power struggle, then Vyra broke into the base. After all that, I don't really trust most of them. When I first met Vyra, I thought she was a good hero, then when she broke into the base to join the power struggle, I began to not trust her as much.",Poundage replies.Maxi-Miss gives him a questioning look but remains silent."Anyway, what about these Sentinels? Who are the members? If there are more than 2, Where were they? That fight was a testament for how social unrest will get our asses kicked. I'm not so sure what Scar will think of joining a group, he seems to be a hero on his own."Maxi-Miss takes a second to put her thoughts in order,"In my 'other' identity I have quite a bit of access to information about the Guardians and Vyra but I was unaware of this 'power struggle'.I joined the Sentinels because they seemed sincere in wanting to help people,fight evil.I got the impression that the Guardians were in it for the prestige,posing for the cameras and such.I remember my mother telling me stories of the old Guardians,how they would place their lives on the line for common people.I want to emulate that.The other two Sentinels?I don't know where they were this morning and Obstacle's strength would have been of great help.When your personal life is more important than saving someone,you shouldn't be a hero.As for Scar joining,I guess that's his decision but think his abilities would be a great benefit to any team.....And you fought valiantly this morning,like a true hero..."
11:50-3:30 pm "Well I have mass strength as well, that Andromeda guy was tough. He was extremely strong. After he took me into his hand there wasn't a lot I could do. Now Obstacle is one that I do not get along with. He was turned to stone in the first fight I fought with him. All because he would not seek cover. Anyway, I thank you for your compliment, you fought well also.",Poundage says.Maxi-Miss grins slightly and looks at the floor,"I felt I had Shattarang on the ropes...If it wasn't for that last lucky shot..."Poundage is silent a moment then continues," If your ever in a fight and need or want some help,give me a call. Are you staying in the hospital to heal or getting out asap? I figure I will stay a while. I have to leave for a little while tomorrow to take care of some "other life" business, but I figure as long as it helps, I will stay." Poundage jots down his number and hands it to her as she replies,"Well considering I've already missed four hours of work I guess I should stay and let them put me back together.I would give you a number to call but I haven't established one for Maxi-Miss yet."The two settle into the day,flipping through channels,chatting.Around 3:30 they are both giggling to the afternoon cartoons when Sgt.Warjokowski strides in with a doctor following him closely."Ah,the last to finally wake.I hope the both of you are none the worse for wear."They look about to notice both Vyra and Scar are starting to sit up in their beds.
3:30-3:40 pm Poundage looks over at the two heroes just waking up,"Welcome back guys."Before they can answer he turns to Maxi-Miss,"Well if you want, when you get some kind of communication device, just call and give me your number."She smiles and nods,"I will...are you two O.K.?"Scar looks around quietly while Vyra answers,"Yea,I think so.What happened?Is everyone O.K?"Maxi-Miss starts to reply when Sgt.Warjokowski interrupts,"Don't mean to break up this re-union but I have some business to continue."Poundage smiles,"Welcome back again Wojo."The sergeant shoots him an icy glance and returns to Vyra and Scar,"You are in Arboghast hospital(Area 13,15).Two meta-humans fought their way through the collected heroes of Midville,broke into the hospital and stole a large,expensive piece of genetic equipment.The hospital was extensively damaged in the attack but you guys were able to delay them long enough for a warning to be spread or the damage would've been worst.In total 9 patients died and 32 were injured."Both Vyra and Scar hang their heads."I need to know if there is anything you guys can tell me that may help us find and beat these two.",Wojo says staring hard at Scar.Vyra remains quiet trying to think of anything.Scar looks up and replies,"The only thing I am sure of is the Guardians had every opportunity to react and stop the two.I warned them of the attack,but they didn't communicate or plan our defense with us.And where was Wraith during all of this?I personally blame the Guardians."There is a long moment of silence that Wojo breaks by clearing his throat,"You feel the Guardians were negligent?Who is this Wraith you speak of?How were you able to warn anyone of the event before it happened?"His eyes lock on Scar,waiting for an answer.
3:40-3:50 pm Scar looks at the other heroes a moment then answers,"Wraith is the newest member of the Guardians.As for how I was able to warn the gathered heroes,that is my curse and my doom.I foresee tragic events and my purpose is to try and correct them."Sgt.Warjokowski nods silently,not prepared for that answer.It is Vyra who speaks first,"I doubt that no matter what kind of warning we have, any of us could of had a defense against them. We didn't know what they could do, there was no way to prepare for that."Maxi-Miss nods her head.Vyra stops a moment and seems to struggle with herself before continuing,"But what I know is we do need to do is form a collaboration with the Guardians. I know most of you are too proud to admit this, and I confess that I am too, but it's true. People DIED today because we were all too stubborn to put our history's aside and fight as a team. We can't keep doing this! I won't sit here and watch the people of Midville being shot down like flies because of our stupidity! "Everyone is quiet,startled by her outburst.After a few silent moments Wojo speaks,"Perhaps that is true.Years of police work,military work have taught me that sometimes you don't like your partner out on the beat but you shove your differences aside knowing everyone is working for the same goal.I think this is something you need to speak to the Guardians about."He stands quiet,his hand nervously reaching for his jacket pocket,"I don't believe I will learn much more here.You all are welcome to stay until you recover.When you are ready to leave try to find a way to sneak out.There is press from every corner of the state trying to dig up a story on this event.Unless your willing to face the unblinking scrutiny of those dogs,I strongly advise you 'disappear' as you leave.The city owes you all a debt of gratitude,though some do not see it this way.Your actions gave the hospital just enough time to prepare,I thank you.If any of you need to talk just stop by the police headquarters and I would be happy to talk with you."He nods at each and turns to leave.The doctor remains checking each hero in turn and then leaves also.Maxi-Miss looks to Vyra,"I was impressed by your speech.I agree,perhaps it is time to mend some fences for the city's good.And honestly,it was Poundage here who did the most to slow down Andromeda.He fought well...and I believe you wanted to talk to Scar?"She winks at Vyra slightly hoping she understands.
3:50-4:00 pm Poundage interrupts the two women's conversation,"First, lets not point fingers, the Guardians tried just as much as the rest of us. By the way Scar, Wraith's powers only work at night, therefore had he stayed after the sun came up, he probably would have been killed. Vyra, that was admirable what you said,being that you, Vengeance, and Lord Galen caused all of the friction. As with every hero in Midville, I want you and Scar to have my number. Anytime you guys need help or have heard of something going down, I would appreciate the call. I will do the same if ever in need. Also, if anyone wants to leave and cannot fly, I will jump you out of the building so you don't have to face the press. Also, be prepared to watch your back. Some citizens will have it in for us. All I ask is that you take it easy on any "citizen" who confronts you."Vyra looks at Maxi-Miss and catches another wink,"Right," Vyra says, turning to Scar and Poundage. "As you know, Midville is in desperate need of heroes. And we either stand together or die alone."She looks hard at Scar,"Your forseeing skills would be an invaluable skill, as would you yourself."Her eyes move from Scar to Poundage and back," So, are you in?"Scar takes a moment,thinking."I will have to think on it.That is not a decision I can make at this time."
4:00-4:10 pm Poundage looks at Scar,"Some people, I will never understand." He gives Scar a wink,looks towards Vyra, chuckles, then turns to watch the tube.Scar looks about a moment then seems to get lost in thought.Maxi-Miss glances over at Poundage then speaks to Vyra,"He seems a little...well...cocky...I guess I mean.But,really he fought well.He just seems to be the loner type.I know this mornings events shows we need a little co-operation but he did give us a number to call if we needed him.I guess this morning showed that we are the only two real Sentinels.I suppose we need to have a pow-wow with the Guardians and completely bury the hatchet,or at least try."
4:10-4:20 pm Vyra looks at Maxi-Miss,shakes her head slightly and replies,"That has been my intentions for awhile now. The Guardians seem less able to put their histories behind them.However, this occasion should knock sense into them."As she is finishing Scar suddenly sits up,"Turn that up Poundage."The four heroes turn to watch the TV as Poundage turns the volume up.They see Sgt.Warjokowski stepping to a podium.He stands there a moment to allow the crowd of reporters to quiet,flashbulbs flashing everywhere.As the reporters settle,Wojo begins to speak,"This morning there was a terrible incident at St.Arboghast hospital.The facts I have have been able to gather are these,two meta-humans attacked at approximately 7:20 am.One is a known hired gun,Shattarang.The FBI and Interpol have some files and are co-operating with my department.The other meta is unknown to any law enforcement agencies.He is described as a very large male,all in yellow,a large A on the upper left hand chest area.Reports are he called himself Andromeda.He is described as being immensely strong and able to stretch his extremities to great lengths.Members of the New Guardians,a couple of individual heroes,and members of an underground group calling themselves the Sentinels showed at the scene.These heroes were able to slow the assault long enough for the hospital to have some preparation time.The two villains fought their way through the combined forces and entered the hospital through a roof access.Inside the hospital they went directly to the genetics research lab and were able to steal a very large...damn...genetic manipulator.Andromeda then broke through the outer wall and carried the machine eastward.His companion was able to ward off any pursuit by police helicopters so we were unable to determine where indeed he went.The outer wall of the hospital was seriously damaged,weakening the structure,causing large sections of the top 4 floors of the hospital to collapse.Nine patients were killed and thirty two were injured.I am told that if the hospital had not disconnected from the main power grid and went to internal generators,the resulting feedback when the manipulator was ripped from the circuit would have created an explosion that would have leveled an area covering close to two city blocks.All of the hero metas were taken into the hospital and treated,some still remain there.They have been given the cities welcome to remain and recuperate but for security reasons there will not be any people,besides law enforcement and medical personnel,allowed in to see them.These heroes deserve the thanks of the city.They placed their lives on the line to protect Midville and allowed the hospital the time it needed to lessen the severity of this tragedy.I have been in contact with the mayor all day long and a few decisions have been made.First and foremost the Special Crimes Unit will start outfitting units with battlesuits immediately.The technology behind the suits is not perfect and some set backs are expected but the mayor feels we need to take this step.Secondly the Special Crimes Unit will extend it's reach better by co-operating with the know meta heroes,therefore they are encouraged to come to Midville Police Station to be registered with my unit.After registration with the S.C.U. they will be deputized and granted limited powers.We also will help these heroes in any way we can to co-ordinate the defense of this city against any other threats......That is all I have at this time,but the mayor wished for me to thank those heroes that were at the hospital this morning.He wants the citizens of the city to also show their gratitude and to know that we are doing everything in our power to be sure something like this doesn't happen again.I also have one final message...Guardians,I need you to contact me when you are able.We will then begin the process of registration.That is all."He steps from the podium quickly as the gathered reporters start to holler questions at him.He walks to a waiting police vehicle in silence and rides away.
4:20-4:40 pm "Wow, " Vyra says in awe. "I guess this means where heroes now." She takes a moment to dwell on that thought and glances over to where Maxi-Miss sits.She seems shocked by the news conference also.Vyra picks up the phone and dials her boss and says,"I won't be able to come in today. I was visiting my grandmother at the hospital before work, and was there during that horrible tragedy. The doctors think I should stay the day recuperating."From the other end her boss acknowledges her and wishes her well.The gathered heroes settle into the afternoon with only the occasional fight over what channel to watch.
4:40-5:00 pm The four heroes spend their time lost in their own thoughts.
5:00-5:10 pm The room is silent for a long time when Poundage breaks the silence,"At least one person isn't content with pointing fingers.You going to register Scar? I know Vyra probably will have a problem with it. Probably say it is the Guardians who want the registry or something. All this talk of fighting together and getting along, but every time she gets a chance, she blasts the Guardians. At least all the Guardians participated. More than I can say for the Sentinels."Maxi-Miss stands and replies,"Well mister mouth,you registering?I have some personal dealings with the S.C.U. and I don't understand the use of registering.Can you explain to me why the heroes would need to register?As for the Guardians showing at the battle,yea they showed but what did they do?Why don't you just get off her back?"
5:10-5:20 pm Poundage rises also,"Wait a minute, did I interrupt you or Vyra speaking to Scar? No, of course not, Mr. Mouth has manners. First of all I did not say anyone needed to register. I simply asked Scar if he was. Second, the Guardians did the same thing we all did at the fight. Got their asses kicked. The only difference is that all the Guardians were there, NOT HALF. Now then, you give credit to your "leader" for her speech. I did not interrupt you and Vyra's little chats or her preposterous speech to Wojo. In the same speech she says we need to band together, but also says things like "the Guardians are in it for prestige and to pose for the cameras." She also says the Guardians can't put the past behind them, but she is the one always bringing it up. I honestly think she is bitter. I told you before, I really don't trust anyone who double talks as she does. I put my differences aside to fight with her. I also don't have the greatest relationship with the Guardians, but guess who called them to let them know about the vision Scar had? Oh yeah, that was me. If it is for the good of the people and/or city of Midville, I will fight along side anyone. I still have no problem with you, just your allegiance with Vyra."Maxi-Miss sticks out her jaw,"Well these Guardians have given me no reason to show them any allegiance.They seem to want to keep themselves separate from us,and we all are here for the same reasons." Poundage looks at Vyra, "Am I right? did you not say all those things about the Guardians? Then say we need to bury the hatchet and fight together?"He turns back to the two of them,"If I am wrong about anything I said, you can correct me. I am more interested in getting rid of our differences so we can fight together peacefully. The last thing we need is to be in a fight and constantly have to look over our backs wondering who is going to verbally slam us in the end." Poundage takes a long look at Vyra. "I am willing to forget the past, but only if you stop bringing it up. Stop blaming the Guardians for everything. They never say anything about you. As far as my attitude goes, what kind of super hero isn't confident and bull headed. With out confidence, we are all a bunch of super powered pussies. Responses?"Scar rises to his feet and says," In case you haven't noticed we got beat. We got beat and lives were lost. The civil war between all of you must end or we will be no better than this Shattarang and Andromeda. This isn't a popularity contest or who is more powerful contest, lives were lost today because we were disorganized. Now I'm with Vyra, the Guardians are the team here in Midville and their inability to be flexible and plan with the others were costly. If you can live with that Poundage than you should join them because you are just like them. Now, I must find about Wraith and why he did not join in this battle. I am suspicious of him."He gives the three heroes a long look then leaves the room.
5:20-5:30 pm The heated discussion continues in the hospital room as Poundage speaks,"Just in case you didn't hear me the first time, Wraith's powers only work at night. How am I just like the Guardians? I fought with everyone of you. You guys act like we could sit down and draw up a game plan or something. Remember, most of the villains we are going to fight, we know nothing about. Can one of you tell me exactly what the three of you did that the Guardians or myself didn't do? Do you think after we found out about their powers, Andromeda and Shattarang would stop to let us gameplan. What exactly was wrong with the way we fought? We pretty much split up and attacked. That is all we can do. Scar and I kicked some ass in the park, we didn't plan, we just played off of one another. Hell, I even took a shot for Scar. I just don't like to hear the three of you dog the Guardians,or any other hero for that matter, when we all did the same thing. Maybe if you guys have a problem with the Guardians you should talk to them instead of behind their backs. I just hope you guys don't form an opinion against me based on what I said. I don't like Lord Galen's tactics that I have seen so far, but I say that to him, not everyone else. Just understand that when I fight, I don't worry about who is there and who is doing what. I just worry about trying to protect my city and the people in it. I found it a privilege to fight with all of you."Maxi-Miss just stares,shocked.She turns to Vyra,"He does have a point,and expressed it very well."Vyra is silent,then replies,"I have no problems with the Guardians. I have tried to put our difference behind us, but they still will not accept me. I have decided to not impress it on them until they are ready. I am just as suceptable to human error as any. I didn't realize that I was complaining about them so heavily, I apologize for it, and will strive to right myself. And, yes, I am ready to start anew at this very moment with you and the Guardians, if you give me that chance."
5:30-5:40 pm Poundage sits back on his bed,"Thank you Maxi-Miss.Thank you as well, Vyra. Now, as long as you make a conscious effert to leave the other heroes of Midville out of your complaints, you have earned much respect. As far as them not letting you in, do you mean "as a Guardian" or that they won't communicate? If you mean that they will not communicate, forget about it. You have a strong allegiance with Maxi-Miss and she fought just as well. You should have been awake when Lord Galen woke up. Talk about lack of communication, I confronted him about the fight and he flashed back to the base. I am just glad we could patch up some of the problems on our end. Now, as a token of appreciation, let me call us in some food. Maybe we can get some Octavian's down here." Poundage reaches for the phone when Maxi-Miss mutters,"What the hell?...Check it out guys..."Vyra and Poundage glance at Maxi-Miss and she is pointing to the TV.The two turn to see a black and gold clad man speeking in front of the hospital."Citizens of Midville. I am Omega. I am what you call a meta-human. This morning, this city suffered a terrible tragedy. Many meta-humans fought bravely to try to stop this tragedy, brought about by two rogue metas.The heroes succeeded in slowing down the onslaught and perhaps preventing this terrible situation from being even worse. Many who fought paid a dear price. You may call them metas, but I prefer the term superheroes. Some of them remain in the hospital here, behind me. They deserve our thanks for their efforts to protect this city."Omega pauses for a moment and then continues, speaking with a firm voice. "Know this--this city is also now under my protection. I regret that I did not respond to the incident at the hospital this morning but, like many other metas, I learned of the incident after it was too late. I know many of you are frightened. I know many of you feel threatened by the growing number of mutants and meta-humans. But I would encourage everyone to accentuate the human, not the meta. We're all in this together and now is the time for us to pull together to prevent any more senseless violence and loss of life. Towards this end, I plan to form a new team of superheroes and I am issuing a public call to any who would like to join me. There are stipulations. I would ask that any wishing to join proceed with Sgt. Warjokowski's earlier televised request to register with the S.C.U. I must stress that this new team will work in cooperation with law enforcement and with pre-existing superhero groups such as the New Guardians and the Sentinels. Our primary focus, at least for the time being, will be the protection of this city. Anyone interested in this offer should meet me on the rooftop of the Midville Police Station.I'll be going there tonight to meet with this Sergeant...Warjokowski...myself and registering with his unit. If you can't meet me there tonight, proceed with registration and leave your contact information with Warjokowski or another police official. Look, I know some metas may be put off by this registration business, but the police are willing to give us at least some degree of authority in this city. I feel we should try, especially now, to work within the bounds of the law. We are, most all of us, a lethal weapon and it's really no different to me than a citizen registering a firearm. I'll elaborate more on my position on this at a more appropriate time but, for now, I am issuing a call to arms. We must protect this city. We must stand against the type of violence and terrorism that occurred this morning. We must stand together. I am Omega. And I will not let this city down. Who's with me?"The man seems to catch fire but the flame is blue.He then flies up and away as the reporter starts to drone on about the speech.The three heroes sit stunned a moment when they here a voice coming from behind them,"Hello. I call myself Omega. Obviously this is a bad time but I wonder if we might be able to talk?"
5:40-5:50 pm "Wow", Vyra says in shock. "That was fast!" She then says to him,"That was a noble speech you made there, Omega, and it conveniently goes along with what we were just talking about--how all the heroes of Midville need to start anew. But, however, I am concerned about this becoming yet another power struggle. It has happened before, and I fear it may happen again."Omega smiles, "You must be Vyra. I've heard of you.I had hoped to meet you. I believe your powers, telekinesis and force field projection,would be a great asset to any team."Vyra continues, "I have no problem giving up my authority, but speeches don't win battles. You'd have to prove yourself as a valuable leader. But, consider me extremely interested."Maxi-Miss looks at Vyra dumbfounded. She is silent a moment then replies,"Vyra,are you saying the Sentinels could fold to join the stranger's team? If so I would be interested, except the registration part.I have some personal reasons not to register."Poundage then introduces himself to Omega. "I'm Poundage. I am with Maxi-Miss. I am kind of skeptical about the whole registering thing. I also have things that I don't need to be known. I would have to know exactly what kind of information you want and how much power would be given in exchange for this information."Omega looks at each of them in turn. "First of all, Vyra--yes, I had intended to form...and lead...a new team. Quickly. I didn't know how badly hurt the Sentinels or the other metas were but, from the news it sounded pretty bad. My fear is that rogue metas might try to take advantage of the current situation. Given the high profile of this mornings battle, everyone knows that many of the city's meta-human protectors have been badly injured."Omega speaks softly to Vyra, "The last thing I want to do is to challenge your authority or start a power struggle of some kind. I simply want to unite the city's meta... superheroes... during this time of crisis."Omega looks at Maxi-Miss, "I also didn't mean to imply that the Sentinels, or any other pre-existing group, should necessarily fold and be absorbed by this new one. The invitation to join the new team is certainly an open one, but if the Sentinels still stand, I just want you to know that I--and any new team that is created--will stand with them if and when needed. I wanted to personally let you all know what I'm doing and why, and assure all of you of my motivations."Omega stands near the hospital window and gazes out over the city."We lost a lot of people this morning," he says sadly. With sincerity in his voice, he adds, "I wish I had been there to help, though honestly I'm not sure my presence would have made that much difference considering the power level of the metas you faced. For what it's worth,I'm here now...with an open hand...Vyra's right, I do still have a lot to prove. I intend to begin doing that right now."Omega pauses for a moment, then continues. "I believe that an offer was made to me tonight which has also been made to each of you in turn by...a mutual friend. I think you all know who I mean and what I'm talking about but I'm not at liberty to say any more at this time."Maxi-Miss looks from one to the other,a bewildered look on her face.Omega continues," My powers are...well, let's just say that they sometimes provide me with certain insight. I have a very strong feeling that this...friend of ours...can and should be trusted."Omega goes on, "However, I understand your reservations about this registering business. I had them myself. If not for my...instincts...I doubt I would have gone along with it so quickly. However, right now this seems like the path of least resistance to forming a team of metas to help protect the city during this time of crisis. If you're asking whether or not this registration procedure might later put you in harms way, the honest answer is that I simply don't know. It involves a scan which records your basic powers and abilities. If such information were to fall into the wrong hands, it could be very dangerous. What I said on the newscast isn't entirely accurate. I've already met with the police and I've already been scanned. For obvious reasons, I couldn't reveal that on television. I accept that this may be dangerous and that I may be putting myself at risk. That's a chance I'M willing to take,but that's NOT a decision I can make for anyone else."Omega turns to Poundage, "I hear you gave Andromeda hell this morning."Poundage smiles slightly and hands Omega a slip of paper containing his cel-phone number.Omega looks at all three of them in turn, "To answer your question, I believe that this new team will be afforded the luxury of a modest base of operations, a limited amount of equipment--including communication devices and, possibly, some type of arrest powers. The team will also have access to...information...that could prove very valuable. There are many questions still to be answered and I hope to have those answers in short order."Omega softens his voice a bit, "Look--I'm not the most powerful meta here, or the most experienced. I'm just doing what I feel lead to do...what I feel is right. All I'm asking from any of you right now is your trust. And believe me, I know that alone is a lot to ask. I guess I'm asking all of you...for a leap of faith. I'm going back to the police department now and try to assemble what metas I can. I want to get at least some organization going and perhaps begin some patrols. I know you've all been injured and probably need to rest right now." Omega nods to each of the other metas, in turn. "There's another meta...named Scar...if any of you know him, please relate what I've said here today.His powers of precognition could prove very valuable. Whatever your thoughts are about the new team, I hope that when we meet again it will be as allies and friends. You're all already heroes. You all proved that this morning. And you have the wounds and scars to show for it. As for me, I guess I'd better get out there and start paying my dues."With that, Omega leaves the other metas behind hoping that he made a good impression on them.The room sits silent for a moment when Maxi-Miss speaks,"Hold on here...What the hell was he talking about?...mutual friend?...offer?...what did I miss here?...how the hell does he know us,our abilities?"
5:50-6:00 pm Vyra shakes her head at Maxi-Miss' comment, "I don't know, I am just as confused as you are." She spends another moment in thought. "Damn! he was one step ahead of me. Flare requested that I set up similar conditions with Sergeant Wojo. But I shouldn't complain, he is doing it for the greater good."With a surprised look on her face Maxi-Miss interrupts,"Wojo?Ahhh...I get it now...mysterious friend...thats exactly how he knows so much about us,or you guys actually.So Wojo wanted and got a meta team,but can't let it out in public...curious."She sits down on the bed,sinking into deep thought.Vyra waits a moment then continues," Heh, I promised myself after the power struggle with the Guardians that I would never add to that struggle. How my emotions betray me...yet another human frailty."At that she chuckles to herself, knowing very well that their isn't a single "human" cell in her. "It is odd how every time a team is assembled it gets shadowed by another. But I think as a whole, this will be best for Midville, which is the motivation of all our heroics, even if it means letting go of my dream of the Sentinels. "Maxi-Miss looks at Vyra with sympathy,"That's not entirely true.The Sentinels can continue if you wish them to.I'm in this till you decide to end the Sentinels.If you end the Sentinels I'll understand,but I will not subject myself to a scan in order to register.I will not be joining this new team."She smiles and glances at Poundage,"Perhaps me and the big guy will become a duo..."She is silent a long time then quietly ask,"What will you do,Vyra?"
6:00-6:10 pm Poundage sits comfortably as the two women talk.As Maxi-Miss ask her last question Poundage decides to stick his two cents in,"Settle down on the whole demise of the Sentinels talk guys. Just because someone else wants to start a team, doesn't mean you have to give up on yours. I really think the S.C.U. will have problems recruiting heroes. Not many of us want anyone knowing all of our secrets and powers. As far as I go, a scan of my powers is totally out of the question. Although police authority would be good, my abilities logged with so many people interested in finding them out, NO THANKS. Maxi-miss,the offer Omega was refering to is that Wojo invited me to lead his team a long time ago. He probably did the same to every non-Guardian hero he could find. Anyway, how about that food. You guys want something? My treat."He picks up the phone and begins to dial as Vyra speaks,"No, I will not disband the Sentinels. Not unless everyone of us are on one team. If you feel uncomfortable about scanning and revealing your powers to them, than I will go to him now and relate your difficulties to him. And, perhaps, if he is really passionate about protecting Midville, he will let you join without registering. "Poundage hangs up the phone and smiles,"Four course dinner on the way.I had to convince them I was Poundage but they have offered the food free of charge!"Maxi-Miss laughs slightly and looks to Vyra,"If you plan to go we will save some food for you.Hurry back,you need medical attention to heal quickly."Vyra nods and replies,"I'll be back soon."She flies out the window and Maxi-Miss pumps her fist. in the air a moment.She looks over at Poundage a little embarrassed and lowers her fist.
6:10-6:20 pm Poundage looks at Maxi-Miss. "Why the fist in the air?"Maxi-Miss blushes slightly,"Well it's hard to explain really but I have HAD to watch some video and study Vyra pretty heavily,other meta's too but mostly Vyra.I respect her a lot and was just pumping my fist because I was exited she hasn't decided to disband the Sentinels."Poundage sits in thought and then says," You know the more I think about it, I think we may be better off at the Guardian med-lab. I am going to call and see if they have room for us and if they would mind. Technology like theirs would probably help more than the hospital and we wouldn't have to worry about all these visitors and reporters. You in? I'm thinking I will ask if I can check in tomorrow. If you would like, I will ask for you and Vyra as well. She can give us an answer when she returns."Maxi-Miss's eyes grow big,"Yea...I mean I don't know them that well and first impressions aren't the best but,man,to actually see THE Guardian Base...Awesome!" Poundage calls the base and asks for Lord Galen.He instead gets Wraith,"Lord Galen is sleeping in the med-lab,Poundage but if you hold just a second I'll have the base buzz him.By the way how are you doing?"
6:20-6:30 pm After a few moments of silence Poundage hears Lord Galen's groggy voice,"How are you Poundage? Hopefully better than when we last saw each other. I would like to apologize for my actions earlier but if you would please refrain from the personal insults it would be greatly appreciated. Now, what can I do for you?"
6:30-6:40 pm Poundage replies,"Maxi-Miss and myself were wondering if we could come to the Guardian base tomorrow and continue our healing there. There are way to many interruptions here. Also, the base's technology would probably help more than this hospital. I would also like to ask for permission for Vyra as well. She is out of the hospital right now, but says she will be back. It would be greatly appreciated."
6:40-6:50 pm Poundage waits for a reply as Vyra flies in the window.She lands lightly and notices Poundage on the phone.Maxi-Miss welcomes her back,"Poundage ordered us food,and is on the phone to the Guardians.Would you want to go heal at their base?Poundage believes we would heal quicker there.How did it go with Omega?"As she finishes two officers come in carry out bags from 'Octavians on Pierce' (Area 2) and set them on a table.
6:50-7:00 pm Lord Galen replies,"Poundage, I see no problem with you coming here to heal. You are correct, you will heal quicker here. The other heroes you mention are welcome to come with you. Just know that you will be watched.""Hey if you don't trust us, we can stay here. "you'll be watched", what the fuck is that? I will discuss it with the other two and see what they think." Poundage hangs up and tells Vyra and Maxi-Miss that he is going to go tomorrow afternoon, and that they are also welcome."Just get outside Rathbone Park, call the guardian base and they should let you in. I will tell you that Mr. Galen said we will be watched. Vyra, please do not take that the wrong way as I did. I just want to go and get my healing done and get the hell out of there." Poundage thanks the officers for the food,and begins to rummage through the bags.Vyra says, "I'll stay here the night, and I hope by tomorrow I won't need treatment - or at least will be able to fight without sustaining fatal injury." Then she turns to Maxi-Miss,"It went -- well, a lot of heroes showed up, And I think over-all it's looks like a very good thing. I told him about you two's concerns over the scanning, and he said he'd talk to his authorities. But he sounded hopeful..."Maxi-Miss smiles slightly,"If I'm still not up to par I'll go with Poundage to the base.But hey let's not let big boy over there hog all the food..."
7:00-7:10 pm The three heroes sit to a four course meal and for a time all that is heard is munching and crunching.Soon the doors to the room open as two policemen escort a bed in.In the bed is a black clad meta and the two policemen stand guard near the bed,power rifles at the ready.The three heroes stop thier eating and stare in wonder when Omega and two strange meta's walk in.
7:10-7:20 pm Omega nods to the police officers and signals Alloy to move over beside the bed where the black-clad meta is lying. "Watch him, Alloy. We still don't know what he's capable of doing. I know he's restrained but let's not take any chances."Alloy steps over to the bed,"Not to worry Omega,sleeping shadow's going nowhere.I was about to do the very same thing,we don't know what were up against here and we can't take chances.'Megs' your doing a great job."His hand cups his chin,"Oh by the way does AB have a sister?"He gives Omega a wink and laughs,"Talk about a 'quickie'."Afterburn zips over to Alloy and gives him a playful punch in the arm.She concentrates hard,"I don't rush through everything,big guy."She places a defiant hand on her hip and glances at Omega,"Not all the time."Omega introduces his companions. "I don't think everyone here has met my teammates." Omega points, "The guy standing guard duty there is called Alloy." Omega then turns to Afterburn and adds, with a wry smile, "And this is the very beautiful...and very fast...Afterburn."Omega then turns to the other metas in the room, "Good to see you all again. I didn't expect we would be meeting up again this quickly but, as you can see, there's been a bit of excitement tonight. Lucky these officers were already here. I believe more are being dispatched from the S.C.U. now and should arrive shortly. I'm sorry to disturb your recovery but our rogue meta took a hard hit and I wanted to make sure he got proper medical attention. Vyra, could we please speak privately for a moment? Meanwhile, Afterburn--please fill the others in on what just happened down at the bar."As Omega and Vyra leave the room Afterburn shoots a hard look at their backs,"WellWeWereFlyingHereWhenINoticedABunchOfPeopleScatteringFromABar...Damn,I'llTryTo SlowDown...Well we went inAndFound this black guy in theBack of the bar.WhenOmegaAsked what he wasDoing,he shootsOff a comment aboutLookingForDrugs.Wetook positions to corral himAndHeMakes a move to leave.Omega took one shotAnd misterBlackHit the floor."She gives a little shrug and tries to step out of the lime light.Maxi-Miss looks at her with a little pity,"Hi,I'm Maxi-Miss and the big fella there,licking his fingers is Poundage.You all hungry?"s she finishes Omega and Vyra return to the room.Omega points to the black-clad meta and asks, "Has he come around yet? I'd like some more information on who he is and what he was doing down at that bar." Omega looks around at the other metas, "We're also trying to pick up a trail on Andromeda and Shattarang. Is there anything else any of you can tell us about them that you think might be helpful? I know Shattarang is a hired gun. Anyone ever encounter him before? Or maybe one of his associates?"Alloy,seeing the return of Omega,starts walk toward the door,"Megs,you want a cup a joe?"Omega turns to answer when the black clad meta suddenly says,"I need to....speak to the Guardians! Where are they?"
7:20-7:30 pm The police officers at the bed side take a more active stance,power rifles at the ready.Omega looks over to the black-clad meta." "What the...? Well, so much for the coffee, Alloy," Omega says softly. Then, louder, he addresses the meta in black. "The Guardians? Why would you want to speak to the Guardians? Just who are you and what the hell were you playing out down at that bar tonight?"Omega moves over and puts his hand lightly on Afterburn's back as he waits for an answer. "Maybe there's more to this than meets the eye?" he says to her, softly.She leans back slightly,applying just a little pressure on his hand. He looks over to the captured meta and waits for a response.Reaper responds, "I told you, I was checking the bar for drugs, drugs are pretty common where I come from. I was makin' sure the place was clean, then leaving. Till you guys walked in and blasted me! Who fired first? And damn it! Turn the lights off I can't see a thing!"Vyra stretches out her hand-preparing to execute a force field if necessary. She nods to Omega to let him know she's ready, but oddly has a gut feeling that she won't need her force field powers.Alloy turns to the black-clad meta and says, "Easy there son..one false move...and you'll be an organ donor."Omega glances at Alloy and finds himself unable to repress a half-smile. Omega then addresses the black-clad meta, "Okay, so I take it you're now claiming to be one of the good guys, so to speak? Well, if your story is true, you're not exactly winning friends and influencing people so far tonight. I only fired on you because you refused to stand down and tried to rush past us. Would you rush at a police officer who asked you to hold position? Honestly, your actions and manner of appearance don't exactly scream 'hero' to me. The only thing I saw down at that bar tonight were a bunch of terrified patrons screaming and running for dear life. Fear and panic among the citizens is the last thing we need right now. And you still haven't answered all the questions. Who are you and why do you want to speak to the Guardians?"The black-clad meta baffles Omega--is this meta a hero as he claims--a possible friend? Or a foe? Omega begins to wonder if he perhaps mis-read the situation at the bar? Omega hopes for one of his occasional flashes of "cosmic insight" but those seem to be few and far between.Omega looks around at the other metas in the room and waits to see if anyone has anything else to offer.Suddenly a gruff voice booms out,"Let me handle this."All eyes turn to the doorway and see Wojo entering with a young meta in tow.The young girl looks about the room in shock at the gathered number of meta's.Afterburn glances at Omega then zips over to stand near The teen.Wojo steps over to the bed and sticks his face over the unknown meta."I am Sgt.Warjokowski,commander of the Special Crimes Unit.Right now your fate lies in my hands,so I suggest you cooperate and answer my questions as honestly as you can.Now take a minute,take a deep breath and calm down."Wojo stands straight and addresses the rest of the room."I apologize for the inconvenience of detaining him here but the hospital only has one room able to handle meta's.I would have been here earlier but I stopped by the Cakes $ Ale bar to get the story from eye witnesses there."He pause and again sticks his face over the unknown meta."Now,first what shall I call you?Second,I have the witnesses version of what happened.What is your version?And I must tell you,anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.You are not officially under arrest but from testimony of witnesses you are very close to it."
7:30-7:40 pm Omega steps over to stand with Afterburn and Imp. He puts his hand on Imp's shoulder and speaks softly to her. Omega glances at Wojo.Omega smiles at the young meta and tries to make her feel a bit more at ease. Omega crosses his arms, leans against the wall and looks towards Wojo and the black-clad meta. Omega tells Wojo, "Sergeant, just before you arrived he was saying something about the lights--that he couldn't see with them on--it may somehow be relevant to his powers." Omega waits to see what the black-clad meta has to say. Omega looks at Afterburn and gives her a smile. He's beginning to understand how she felt earlier at the police station. Omega finds himself anxious to get the current matter resolved. He's eager to find out what Imp and Wojo have discovered. He catches himself tapping against the wall somewhat impatiently as he lets out a sigh. He wonders if Afterburn noticed as he turns his attention back to Wojo and the restrained meta.Poundage gets his phone and phones Guardian base. "Vengeance, we need one of you at the hospital ASAP. There is a meta, considered to be bad asking for one of you. Like Wraith, it seems he is a "creature" of the night." Poundage looks around the room. "I have contacted the Guardians. Maybe if we get one of them here, he will talk. Sounds to me like he is a lot like Wraith. Powers of darkness." Poundage stands next to the bed prepared with his paralysis ray. "If he makes a move, I can render him unconscious without hurting him."Poundage looks at young female hero. "Do I know you, feels like I've met you before. Like in a previous life."She gives him a small grin,"You do seem sort of familiar,do you have a son?"Omega smiles at the young meta as he introduces her, "This is Imp, Poundage. Imp...this is Poundage. He's a friend."When Poundage mentions he can render the meta unconscious without harming him, Omega wonders if Poundage might possess paralysis abilities similar to Afterburn and Imp. If so Omega considers that at least three of the heroes in the room--Poundage, Imp and Afterburn--have stated they have "paralysis" abilities. Omega has assumed, thus far, that the ability renders foes immobile or unconscious on a successful strike, but he makes a mental note to find out more about this power. He wonders if Poundage attempted to use the ability against Andromeda or Shattarang and, if so, what the results were? Omega finds himself thinking that these paralysis attacks might be an important tactical advantage against high-powered villains.The black meta replies,"First, you can call me stranger for now. Second, I already told my story twice. I stopped at the bar. Thought I might grab a drink if all was well.The bartender seemed as if he were hiding something, so I went in to investigate. Third, the Guardians are the reason I came to Midville, I have come to join them. Fourth, I am not going to attack you, can you release these restraints? Put up a force field if necessary, but at least let me out of the restraints.By the way, someone dim the lights! I can barely see!"There is a moment of silence as Wojo stands his face just above the black meta's face.All in the room notice a red tint climbing up his neck and his face,too,takes on a reddish hue,"Listen son,I'm not sure you understand how serious this is or WHO I am.As of right now I have enough to lock you up and keep you there until a trial is scheduled,say 30 days.I AM the law in this town,when it comes to meta's so I believe you want to get on my good side."His hands grabs the rails on each side of the meta's bed and his face is now mere centimeters from the meta's."I WILL NOT REFER TO YOU AS STRANGER.I WILL NOT RELEASE THE RESTRAINTS UNTIL YOU HAVE SHOWN YOURSELF TO BE A LITTLE MORE COOPERATIVE.I WILL NOT DIM THE LIGHTS.YOU SHOW ME A LITTLE RESPECT AND YOU JUST MAY EARN SOME YOURSELF."Wojo glares into the meta's eyes for an eternity then stands up."If you did not witness a drug transaction,overhear a conversation concerning a drug transaction or actually see any drugs,you are not to enter a public place,or private property for that matter, and cause such a commotion.The citizens of this city have rights that metas WILL NOT ignore.Now I'm willing to accept the fact that you THOUGHT something illegal was occurring,that you THOUGHT what you were doing was right.But I will not accept causing a public panic over what you THOUGHT was happening.Now how may I refer to you?"Afterburn looks shocked and scoots over close to Omega,hugging his arm tightly.
7:40-7:50 pm Omega looks over at Afterburn, he reaches over and rubs her gently on the back. "It's okay...trust me," he tells her, softly.She looks up at him with wide eyes,but smiles back at him.Poundage rises from his bed,"WOJO, I don't mean to step on toes, but settle the fuck down. Give the guy a chance. Odds are if he were to make a move, he would have done it by now. Maybe your boys are a little trigger happy. Guy looks beat down ghetto style. Let's just calm down and back off a little. I called the Guardians and they should be here soon. Damn I need a drink." As Poundage walks back to his bed he looks at Imp and says "Ahh, another place, another time. Good times. Good times."Imp looks at him with a puzzled glance,smiles and returns to fiddling with her finger nails. Omega looks back towards Wojo and the black-clad meta.Omega feels his frustration growing with each passing second. He decides to try to channel his anger into something useful. He speaks to the black-clad meta in a measured tone, "Well? You heard the Sergeant. I don't know if you can see me or not 'stranger' but I'm the last thing you saw before your world went black. My name is Omega and I'm the guy that put you in that freakin' hospital bed. I was actually feeling badly about that but I'm starting to get over it."Omega clenches his fist and continues, "You need to give Sgt. Warjokowski some straight answers and damnit...I don't just mean now, I mean yesterday! I don't know who you are or what your deal is, but the rest of us have some very important business to attend to and your little 'man of mystery' act is wasting far too much time. You say you want to join the Guardians? I don't imagine they accept folks with criminal records, but I might be wrong. That seems to be where you're headed right now, but maybe you can put in your application with them after you make bond."Omega calms himself, looks toward Wojo, and apologetically holds up one hand in the air. Omega shakes his head as if to say, "Sorry for the rant."Omega looks out the hospital window and scans the city. He knows that the trail on Andromeda and Shattarang grows colder with each passing second. He's anxious to speak with Imp about what what she's discovered, to begin the search for the rogue metas, to get his team back out on patrol...Omega glances over at Afterburn and offers her a quick smile. He wonders if this is how she feels all the time?Vyra stands back and watches. She is very shocked at Wojo's and Omega's behavior and starts to somehow pity the black-clad man, since he was only trying to do the right thing and is now being bitched at by everybody. And she's a little curious about Omega's behavior towards a potential member.Alloy folds his arms, leans against the strongest part of the wall and watches as both Sgt.WoJo and "Megs" tear this guy a new one. Then as soon as the room is quiet, Alloy speaks in a calm but deadly tone, "There are two deadly scumbags running around doing God knows what and you keep us here wasting time! If someone gets hurt because of your theatrics..." Alloy slowly moves towards the Black clad meta, "I'll break you...and you'll stay broke!" Alloy then returns to his spot, folded arms and all.Reaper responds, "Alright then. Listen, and listen carefully. Tell the bartender that I apologize for scaring him and his customers, but where I come from there is no law. The town is run by the mob. We didn't have time to be polite. And by the way, Mr...Law, was it? Anyway, I came here to join the Guardians because I am no longer needed back home."Reaper continues, "If you must know, I am known simply as...The Reaper. Now that I have answered your questions, I have a few of my own.First, what do you mean you are the law? Second, where the am I? What does the room look like?And by the way, Alloy, I didn't ask to be tied up and interrogated. Now will someone tell me what time it is? I can't see the clock."After hearing this, Omega softens a bit. "Okay...Reaper...sorry about jumping you so hard just now but what Alloy said is true...this very hospital was attacked this morning by two rogue metas who caused a lot of death, destruction and panic and we're all a bit on edge right now. When you caused that big scene down at the bar, well..."Omega looks at Wojo, "Sergeant? It's your call, but..." Omega looks around the room, "...I no longer believe Reaper presents a threat and there ARE about half a dozen other heroes here...maybe we could at least dim the lights so he can see us while we continue this conversation? I'd like to hear more about these men in black suits." Omega offers Wojo a half smile, "I'm picking up from Reaper's comments that maybe he's...ummmm...not from around here...perhaps this might explain some of his behavior...which, admittedly, WAS somewhat reckless. Still, we're going to need all the help we can get against Andromeda and Shattarang. He might prove a valuable ally. But as I said, that's not my call." Omega offers Wojo a half-smile, "You're the one with the badge."Wojo stands up and debates with himself.After moments of silence he makes a small gesture and one of the policemen cranks the bed to a sitting position and releases the restraint holding the Reaper's head."O.K.,if the bartender is willing I believe we can drop the charges.Now for your answers.In this city I am in charge of the police unit designed to control meta activity in the city.If a meta is involved in the city I know about it.All meta's answer for their actions and they answer to me.I am Sergeant Warjokowski,Wojo for short.You are in the hospital,to receive treatment for the minor injuries you occurred while being apprehended."As he is finishing his last statement Wraith and Vengeance fly through the window and land in the midst of the other heroes.
7:50-8:00 pm Alloy waves at the two new arrivals," I'm Alloy pleased to meet ya." He gives "Megs" a thumbs up.Omega nods to Wraith and Vengeance. "I take it from the G's on the belt buckles that you must be members of the Guardians? We haven't met yet. I'm Omega and these are my teammates," Omega introduces each in turn, "Afterburn, Imp and Alloy. We've taken the tentative name of The Protectors and have sworn to protect the City of Midville during times of crisis. You know...like now." Omega smiles and extends his hand. Wraith shakes the hand extended,"I am Wraith and this is Vengeance.""It's an honor to meet you both. From what I've heard, the scope of the Guardian's mission might be a bit more expansive than ours but we stand ready to assist you if we are needed."Poundage rises again, "Thank god you guys are here, and that you didn't bring Gay-len. We forgot the sign to check your ego at the door." Poundage looks at Maxi-Miss, "how fucked up was that?"Maxi-Miss gives him a shrug and watches the gathering.Looking about she is amazed at the gathered power in the room and replies,"I think Midville has an amazing amount of protection if we ever decide to 'just get along'." Poundage writes his number on a few pieces of paper and hands it out to those without it. Handing Imp a copy he says "Look forward to fighting with you. Again?"Imp takes the slip of paper gingerly and smiles at Poundage."You ever think of joining a team?Maybe start one of your own,say train the younger generation?" Omega then walks over to Reaper and extends a hand to him as well. "Guess we really got off on the wrong foot, Reaper. I really DIDN'T mean to peg you quite so hard down at that bar earlier tonight. Please, just try to remember that the public is easily panicked right now. I know now that you were probably only doing what you thought was right but we need to try to keep peace and order out there right now--not create more chaos."Alloy steps forward a little,a playful grin on his face,"Hey Reaper,sorry maybe I did jump the gun a little but we really need to get our stuff together and find these two scumbags.Meet out some 'justice'.Hey and 'Megs',I like our little foursome,we can call ourselves the fearless four."Alloy starts a hearty laugh as Afterburn zips over,smiles up at the big guy,"You OverGrownTeddyBear..."Reaper says, "I don't know exactly who the 'Men in black' are, but they have been hunting me for as long as I can remember, I'll fill you in later. As for the rogue metas, I have not heard of them before now." Omega looks around the room at all the metas who have gathered, "Look, I know there are a lot of issues for us to all deal with right now, but our team started out tonight trying to establish a lead on Andromeda and Shattarang. I can only assume that the Guardians have been doing the same. Perhaps we should all just take a deep breath, settle down, compare notes and try to start connecting the dots together? I believe we can accomplish more if we all work together. Our team may have some information." Omega walks over and places his hand gently on Afterburn's back. He nods at Alloy. Even though Omega's known his teammates only a short time, oddly, he's already beginning to feel strongly connected to them. While he's still hopeful that more metas can be recruited, he feels he already has a very good base from which to build.Wraith looks at Wojo suspiciously then replies,"Most of you know I am from the future,an alternate future I believe now that I have been stuck here.But Andromeda seems familiar I just can't seem to place him.Perhaps in my past he was stopped today,I don't know.A lot of the records were lost during the mutant rebellion and what remained didn't survive the Prawn War.We have the base doing some searching for information concerning other equipment the villain may be searching for but don't have much right now."Omega glances toward the young Imp. "Imp, now that we've established that we're all friends here, why don't you tell us what it is that you've discovered?"Imp steps forward,carrying herself with pride.It is evident when she speaks that she is very intelligent and she knows it.She has an aura of confidence as she speaks,"Considering the size of the equipment and the power needs for such there are few areas in the city where the device could be stored and used.From what I have been able to determine the machine more than likely was taken to an area underground,in the vicinity of Buchanan Park (Area 3,4,5,6).The area has the power needed and the underground section of the city there has many areas that aren't used anymore.There are areas a little further east that possibly could house the device but only if Andromeda supplied his own power supply."
8:00-8:10 pm Vengeance looks at Imp,"Well young lady you have done your homework.Interested in being a Guardian?We could use a hero like you."Omega walks over to Imp and squeezes her shoulder. "Good work, indeed. That's extremely helpful information, Imp." Omega nods at Vengeance. "She would make a good Guardian, but a good Protector too, huh?" Omega laughs and adds, "It is good to all be working together."Imp smiles up at Omega then looks over to Vengeance with a questioning look.Vengeance continues,"Here is what I found out.Pegasus Labs is currently working on the same technology and could possibly be the next target. I figure that Andromeda and Shattarang have just gotten the first piece of what they need to build some kind of device.Krupp Industries also has also done some research in the past on the same technology and maybe involved some how but that's not facts,that's just a hunch.I figure we should try to keep an eye on both just to be sure."Vyra finally speaks up. "Alright, looks like we have a good start. But, while we sit here and discuss the possibilities of where they may be, there off plotting there next move. We have more than enough heroes to take them now, I believe, if we have a coherent plan. Maybe half of us go to the park to investigate and half of us go to Krupp Industries, and report back in an hour? Or maybe we could set up some communication? But whatever we do, we must work quickly,I have a gut feeling that these two are going to take advantage of having so many heroes crippled."Omega then looks towards Vyra. "I completely agree with Vyra. I think we should act quickly and decisively. Splitting up isn't a bad idea, but it sounds like the area Imp described might be fairly large. I don't mind taking the Protectors team down there to have a look but maybe we should try to concentrate on different areas? And I certainly don't think we should ignore Krupp Industries either. We do have an impressive showing of heroes here. Are there any others we should contact?Also, is there any type of detection equipment available to us which might help to narrow our search?"Omega glances towards Imp, "Oh, and speaking of equipment...that's the other thing I wanted to address. I also agree with Vyra that we need to set up some communication. Our team currently lacks any significant communication equipment, which could be a liability. We should have some in a few days but I was going to ask if you could perhaps rig something up for us to get us by in the meantime. However, we may now lack the needed time. I do think we should act on our various leads sooner rather than later."As the discussion continues Reaper concentrates on his sunglasses and the lightly float to land on his face.Sgt.Warjokowski looks at him a moment and reaches down to release the restraints holding him.Vengeance looks at the crowd of heroes and begins to speak,"Me and Wraith should head to Pegasus Engineering.Vyra maybe your team could scope out Krupp Industries.The Protectors are going to the park.If you guys have cell phones it would make it easy to stay in constant contact.If not I say we meet at Rathbone park (Area 15,16) to fill each other in on what's going on.Poundage would you like to go to Pegasus with Wraith and I?"Imp again takes center stage,"Hold on all of you.First splitting up too much is inviting disaster.I don't think I have to remind all of you that these two villains walked through a similar gathering of heroes this morning.Now they will be facing the heroes on their home turf.Secondly as impressive as this gathering is a portion of us are injured and not at full strength.I believe two teams should be the maximum we weaken our forces.As for communication,if we split into two teams we could have one of the Guardians in each group and can remain in contact that way.If we do decide to split further I would suggest a quick fix.Buy a number of ordinary walkie-talkies.With a few minutes of adjustment I could have them all on a little used frequency pretty quickly.Any scanner of significant technology could pick up the transmissions but that is a price we would have to pay."She stands straight and tall and those gathered notice an aura of leadership about her.This is not a normal 16 year old girl.As the room quiets Wojo clears his throat with a rumble,"I could have the police presence about these two companies beefed up for a small amount of time,until you people finish your search."Finally Vengeance looks around the room,"Was there someone here who wanted to talk to the Guardians?"
8:10-8:20 pm Vyra is impressed at Imp's quick, decisive logic. "I think Imp is right.Communication should be a priority, and the easiest, quickest and most convenient way is through the Guardian's badges. Also, if we do encounter them, we need a tactical plan rather than everyone run out fists flying. That got us nowhere last time. Perhaps we should try to keep a 20 feet distance to avoid Andromeda's fist and Shattarang's weapon? Maybe those of us who have forcefields could mesh them together to form a strong barrier against attacks."Imp shakes her head slightly,"From what I have heard of Andromeda's attack on the hospital he was able to stretch his legs to a distance of at least 80 feet to step from one roof of the hospital to the other.I'm assuming he can do the same with his other appendages.If we try to stay out of range of his fist we more than likely take ourselves out of range for our attacks."Omega smiles as he looks toward Imp, proudly. He's glad he decided to take a chance on her. "Heh. Imp, at the rate this is going you could end up as team leader by morning. You make some excellent points. I agree we should not overly fraction our forces."Imp smiles up at Omega,"Just thinking things through..."Omega looks towards Vyra, "And, again--I agree with Vyra. I've already been thinking about some combat strategies to use against Andromeda and Shattarang.Afterburn is very fast and has a paralysis type of attack.Imp also has the same form of attack and I believe others do as well. This might be a tactical advantage in taking down an otherwise seemingly invulnerable foe.Alloy is nigh-indestructible in his metallic, armored form. If we do encounter the villains I'd planned to have him attempt to engage Andromdeda at close range--keep him occupied and try to negate his stretching abilities while we find out if the paralysis attacks are effective against him.Those of us who can fly can perhaps attempt to out flank him and use our various forms of ranged attacks.As for Shattarang, it seems this boomerang is his primary weapon. We should concentrate on taking out his weapon and taking him down as fast as possible so we can concentrate on the seemingly greater threat posed by Andromeda.That's a pretty broad battle plan but I had intended on giving more direct instructions to my team once an engagement actually began. I'm don't claim to be an expert though and I'm certainly willing to listen to other ideas and also defer to more experienced leadership should the situation call for it. But, if Sgt. Wojo is going to use his forces to monitor these corporations, perhaps we should all head to the park together? That seems to be the most likely location of Andromeda and Shattarang and I think that's our primary concern at this time. If they are there, it may take our combined efforts to beat them. In any case, that's where the Protectors will be heading next."Omega begins to think about what Vyra said concerning the force fields. He looks to her and asks, "Vyra? Is it possible for you to invert your force field? Could we use it as a way to 'capture' Shattarang's weapon or perhaps separate him from it? Or maybe you could use your telekenetic powers to take control of the boomerang yourself? Might take him by surprise if he suddenly got whacked upside the head by his own weapon."Imp smiles at the last statement,"Actually,inverting the forcefield is not needed.If it works the way I believe it does,she should be able to just place a forcefield around Shattarang.Any means of control he has shouldn't be able to escape the field until he has broken the field.His control of the weapon has to be mechanical controls on his person,telepathic orders to the boomerang itself,or the most logical answer,telekinesis."Poundage stands up,"I can join the fight, but in my weakened state, I may not hang around if itgets ugly. I also have a paralysis attack. Vengeance once tried to control the boomerang but failed. Maybe if so many of us have paralysis attacks, a couple should focus on trying to get Andromeda, and the other(s) should focus on Shatterang."Maxi-Miss finally speaks up,"Well I want Shattarang.I had him on the ropes this morning except for a lucky shot.Besides I have a little...well not so little...surprise for him."Wojo studies the exchange amongst the heroes then states,"I'll leave you to your planning and get those units to the two businesses.I will also have a unit on standby,ready if you guys find anything."He walks to the door as Reaper speaks up,"Hey, you guys want me to help? If so, I may be able to combine my telekinesis with Vyra's, but I've never tried it before."Afterburn zips to Omega's side and gives his hand a squeeze.The other heroes watch as she takes a deep breath,"So that makesThe Protectors,theTwo Guardians,Vyra,Poundage,Maxi-MissAndReaper.Let'sGetThisShow on the road!I'll dash thereButHowWill the restOfYou get there?."
8:20-8:30 pm Omega smiles at Afterburn and returns the squeeze. "Perhaps we should all go together?" Omega suggests. "If you don't mind the relatively slow method of me flying you there?I think we have enough fliers here to transport the non-fliers. Alloy can form metallic wings and give Imp a lift. He should be strong enough to carry one or two more as well if need be. Perhaps the Guardians can provide a lift for any remaining non-fliers? Reaper, you are welcome to join us. Are you able to fly? If not, pair up with a flier and let's get down to this park."Omega thinks for a moment, "These rogue metas seem pretty advanced. They might have some type of detection equipment down there. Perhaps we should fly in low? Below their radar, so to speak?"Omega looks to Imp as he begins to fully realize that this isn't just some ordinary kid, but a hero of great value and intelligence. "Imp, if you have any more of those brilliant ideas of yours, please feel free to share! Okay, let's go."Imp looks to Omega,"Actually I expect no problems at the park.The device is more than likely in an underground room somewhere.The abandoned subway tunnels will leave us little room to maneuver."Poundage looks about. "I can leap pretty quickly and can also carry lots of weight. If I am on a team with some 'slower non-flyers' I can carry them and get them there faster. We should also remember Shattarang is also hurt."Giving Maxi-Miss an approving look as he says, "Also I hope I put some damage on Andromeda. I will warn everybody. He is bad ass. Not only does he stretch, but he seems to have something extra on his strikes. His fist would glow as he made contact. I feel that if we can move quick enough, we may want to stay together. That Andromeda can handle a handful or so. I'm just hoping Shattarang hasn't healed as much as some of us. Vengeance, perhaps we could use the Striker. Intimidation would be good."Vengeance taps his badge, "Base tell Galen what's going on. Then bring Striker 1 and 2 to the hospital roof. We're taking a ride in style...Man this has been a long fuckin day..."To answer Omega's question, Reaper runs, jumps, does a flip out the window, and takes flight...."What do you want me to do?"Omega calls to Reaper, "The Guardians have transportation on the way. Let's just wait till their aircraft get here and then we'll all go down there together."Omega thinks for a moment, then muses about what Poundage said. "Andromeda's fists glowed when he attacked? Hmmmm...maybe some type of energy based carrier attack?"The gathered group begins to make it way to roof.Omega and Afterburn fall behind and hold a hushed conversation then follow the others.Omega looks up and glances around at the others. He offers, "Okay, here's what I think we should do if it comes to a combat situation:Andromeda: Afterburn, Poundage, Alloy, Vengeance and I should probably go after him. Afterburn, you zip behind him and try to take him down with one of your paralysis rays. Alloy, your job is to get in close and keep him occupied until we can figure out if this will work. Poundage can try to flank Andromeda from the side and fire your own paralysis rays at him. Vengeance is probably more powerful than I am, but he he and I can fly above him and attempt to distract him with ranged attacks and weaken his defenses. If the paralysis doesn't work, then the idea is to surround him and attack him from all sides. Keep moving and try to stay out of range of his stretching abilities.Shattarang: Maxi-Miss has called dibs, and I think that she, Imp, Reaper and Vyra should try to take Shattarang out as quickly as possible. Imp, perhaps your paralysis attack can take Shattarang out. Maxi-Miss, Vyra and Reaper can attempt to attack and distract while you position yourself behind him and try to surprise him. If it doesn't work, then I think Vyra should try using her force field to separate Shattarang from his boomerang weapon. Reaper, use any type of ranged attack you might have and try to disable the weapon itself. Maxi-Miss, if your name implies what I think it does then Shattarang may indeed be in for a BIG surprise, so if all else fails, perhaps brute strength will win out. Imp, if our paralysis rays don't work on him--or even if they do succeed in taking him out--I want you to retreat back to the Striker. There's a reason for this that I'll get to in a moment. We shouldn't underestimate Shattarang but I still feel Andromeda is the major threat."Omega looks to Vengeance, then to Vyra. "Just a few tactical ideas, Vengeance, Vyra. I don't mean to overstep my bounds here but I do think a good tactical plan is instrumental to our success. I'm certainly open to any other ideas. There's one more thing..."Omega pauses and then continues, "Vengeance, I know the Striker has offensive weapons and I know they have been used in combat before with...unfortunate and unplanned results...however, that might be something we should consider as a backup plan. If all else fails, perhaps we should use those weapons against Andromeda? That's why I suggested Imp's retreat. She could learn how to operate the aircraft and its offensive systems in short order and bring it into play if need be. I hope it doesn't come to that but, if it does...if we all fall...then Imp may be the city's last hope." Omega looks at Imp and adds, "I'm not even going to ask if you can do it, Imp. I already know the answer. I think we all do."In response Imp gives a flip of of hair and begins to pick at her fingernail.Omega then sighs deeply and looks around the room. "Well, hell...win, lose or draw...I'm damn proud to be in this company. The Protectors...fighting with the Guardians and the Sentinels. Guess it's about time to take some names and kick some ass."As he finishes a large shape slowly lowers from the sky.The Striker flies almost silent and lowers itself till it hovers meer inches from the roof.A door on the right side slides open and a ramp is extended.Imp is heard muttering,"How cool..."The gathered heroes begin to enter the craft when They notice Scar exit the roof access door.
8:30-8:40 pm Omega approaches the new hero, smiles and extends his hand in friendship. "You must be Scar. I've heard of you and was hoping that we would meet. I'm Omega. I believe you know everyone else here except perhaps for..." Omega nods at each as he introduces, "Alloy, Afterburn and Imp. We have a lead on Andromeda and Shattarang. I know you were involved in this mornings battle. Have you healed enough to join us?" Omega then asks, softly, "I also know that you have precognitive abilities. Any information you can share with us would be greatly appreciated. We're going to need any advantage we can get."Scar says,"I am much to weak to join you in battle.I was unable to detect any sort of weakness in Andromeda this morning."Omega addresses the group as a whole, "Scar, I had just outlined a tactical plan but something Imp said has been bothering me. She said we might be encountering the rogues in an area that will leave us little room to maneuver. That might put a wrinkle or two in what I had in mind."Omega and Scar follow the others into the Striker.As the Striker starts to move toward the park Omega looks to Vengeance, Vyra and Poundage. "My plan really assumes a greater area of maneuverability--like in the battle this morning. I still think the paralysis rays are our best bet but I'd be interested in hearing any ideas you guys might have.A side effect of my power is that, while I'm channeling the Omega Force I have a greater sense of awareness and...for lack of a better word, intelligence. I know I tend to ramble on at times but it's simply because I'm trying to convey the ideas that are flowing into my mind." Omega smiles and adds, "You've all fought these two before, just as Scar has. If anyone else has any suggestions, I'd like to hear them now while we're all still together."Reaper stands apart from the others,"Okay, I don't really have anything good to say, I just need to know what were up against here, because I have never encountered these guys before, what can they do? What device were you talking about? And why the hell are they doing all this in the first place?"Omega explains, "Well, assuming that this lead pans out and we find them, we're up against the two metas who attacked the hospital this morning,Andromeda and Shattarang. Andromeda has great strength, heavy defenses and stretching abilities. And, according to Poundage, may also have some type of energy-based carrier attack.Shattarang appears to be a hired gun. He's able to control a boomerang-type weapon by an as yet unknown means, possibly telekensis.The two of them attacked the hospital and stole a genetic manipulation device. Afterburn has theorized that Andromeda intends to use this device to duplicate his own DNA and produce clones of himself. Whatever his broader plan is remains unclear but he's already shown he has absolutely no respect for human life and seems to enjoy carnage and destruction.He's also very powerful. Poundage, along with members of the Guardians and the Sentinels fought Andromeda and Shattarang here this morning, but the two put most of heroes in the hospital and managed to escape, along with the device. A lot of people have been killed and there's a lot of panic in the streets right now. That's why we responded to you the way we did when we first encountered you. We weren't sure if you were friend or foe, but I'm glad you're with us now."Omega looks around at the group, "Um...did I leave out any important details?"The gathered heroes feel the ship slow and stop and Wraith says,"O.k. people were at the park.What now?"The door opens and the ramp extends itself again.Imp steps out into the park and begins to scan the area."I believe we can find an old Maintenance access to the abandoned subway in the underground parking garage over there.Now,do we split up?Leave any one here?"Wraith replies,"We don't NEED to leave anyone.The Striker can fly and fire it's own weapons and it can be controlled through the badges."
8:40-8:50 pm Afterburn looks around at the heroes gathered about the park."PerhapsWeLeaveThoseHeroesWhoHaveBeenInjured. CalvaryIfWeNeedRescued?"Omega looks to Afterburn, "I think that's a good idea." He pauses for a moment and then adds, "I have a bad feeling about this. I can't explain it but I feel that Andromeda is here. Also, I get the distinct feeling that we are being watched. He would likely select a base that could be easily defended...or hidden. No offense to Imp, but we did locate him with relative ease. Something's been gnawing at the back of my mind for a while now. Maybe Andromeda wanted us to find him and our approach was fairly obvious. We might be walking into a trap. In any case, I'm definitely getting a very bad vibe."As Omega departs the Striker, he looks about the park and attempts to focus all his senses (earthly and otherwise) on the area, to see if he can gleam any additional insights or simply if he notices anything out of the ordinary. He turns to Imp, "If the Striker can be controlled by the Guardian's badges then you needn't have to worry about retreating from battle to carry out the backup plan." He places his hand on her shoulder and looks her in the eye. "But I still want you to be careful down there. If things go badly, I want you to pull back--contact Wojo and gather together as many metas as you can find. A back-up calvary here is a good idea but we may need more than one calvary before this night is over."Imp gives Omega a 'Yea Right!' look and replies,"I'm a Protector...I will not leave my teammates."She wonders to the entrance to the parking garage and begins to look around.Omega then looks to his other teammates, Alloy and Afterburn. "Okay, guys--this is the real deal." He adds, with a smile, "We're fighting alongside the Guardians and the Sentinels so let's stay sharp."Omega slips up to Afterburn and says, softly, "Keeping Imp out of harms way may be more problematic than I had anticipated."Omega steps up to Imp and says, "I didn't mean to insult you Imp. Remember, you're a Protector because I decided to take a chance on you. So far, I have not been disappointed. Not in the least. This isn't about your age. It's about having someone I can depend on when the chips are down and, so far, you have proven that I can depend on you." Omega puts his hand gently on Imp's shoulder and adds, "I'm not asking you to bolt at the first sign of trouble, Imp. Quite the contrary, I think your powers will be a great asset to us. I'm just saying that if things go badly...really badly...then I need you to get out, contact Wojo and bring in reinforcements, a.s.a.p. Okay?"Omega looks out over the park, thinks for a moment and then adds, "You got us this far, Imp. Now that we're here, what are your instincts telling you?"Imp locks Omega with a steely glare,"The parking entrance is definitely big enough to fit the recombinator,I would almost say this was the way he came.I haven't found any kind of surveillance equipment so far."As usual, Reaper stays apart from the group. He catches up with Omega and says,"Sorry about what happened at the bar tonight, I didn't mean to add to the problem. Must be tough doing this job, round here. So many rules to abide by, but I guess your pretty used to it."Wraith steps to the front of the group,"O.k.,we should move this along.If Andromeda is down there,the longer we delay the more preparation time he has.Whoever is staying above ground should enter the Striker.The rest should get moving into the garage."Poundage steps toward the Striker,"I will have to stay."
8:50-9:00 pm Poundage enters the Striker and watches as the gathered heroes enter the parking garage.
9:00-9:10 pm Poundage waits inside the Striker,impatient for any news.
9:10-9:20 pm Scar returns to the Striker and speaks to Poundage, "Hopefully our enemies do not watch TV because the idiots have already started broadcasting. Hopefully our friends will be ok.""Yeah they are hounds." Poundage replies and calls Wojo. "Look, either you do something about these news vans giving our enemies a leg up, or I will take matters into my own hands and suffer the consequences.I WILL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSING ONE OF MY FRIENDS TODAY, THEY WILL!"Wojo replies over the speaker,"I will have the police expand the perimeter,but I can't stop the broadcast." Poundage looks to Scar, "If he doesn't do anything, you in on destroying a few satellite feeds? I am not typically destructive, but this is no ordinary news event. Tipping those two off will be deadly." Poundage communicates with the others. "The news reporters are out here. If they don't know you are here, they may now. I have instructed Wojo to remove them.If he doesn't, you guys give the word and I will make sure none of this makes it to the air.Tell me how to get there. If things get hairy, I am coming in to get you guys out." He looks back at Scar. "I know this is a bad time to talk about this, but do you ever think about joining a team? I have thought about it and have decided if I join one it will be the Guardians. I was kind of hoping to build kind of a "partnership" with you.The Protectors don't sound too bad, but Omega is kind of feely, plus a scan is not in my best interest. Just what I need someone knowing all my powers and secrets. Isn't part of being a superhero having secrets? So mull over the idea of forming a partnership and let me know. I do have a financial backer."
9:20 pm Scar ponders for a moment. "I came to this city to unite its heroes. I have no problem partnering with anyone, but I myself am not a team player. My goal is to get these heroes united and be my own person. Let them deal with the problems outside while I take care of Midville's underworld.I think I've already taken out one satellite."As he finishes the two heroes hear Vengeance voice as he tells them how to get to the underground room.He finishes by telling Poundage,""Your friends are here. You might want to come say hi."
9:20 pm Poundage turns to Scar. "I'm going in. Keep the ship handy, I may try to send the wounded out. Stay alert. Base run a feed through my cell phone. You should have it on record. This is Poundage by the way." Poundage leaps out of the ship waving his middle fingers to the crowd of reporters.He dashes into the garage and follows the directions Vengeance gave him.At the end he finds himself standing a room with the other heroes.In a room a head of him he spies Andromeda and watches as Afterburn fires at Shattarang and he falls to the floor.
9:20:15 pm (Phase 33) Omega looks at Afterburn, "Yes! Good work!"She looks in his direction and gives him a wink. Omega then feels a twinge in the back of his mind as the Omega Force "speaks" to him. He yells out, "Everyone! Listen up, this is important! Do NOT let Andromeda leave this room, no matter what!" Even as he says this, Omega zips around behind Andromeda and fires off a double-blast of flame attack.His timing is off slightly and both blast shoot past Andromeda."Your lackey is down! You're outnumbered and outgunned! Give up!"Andromeda lets out a laugh,"He is just a tool that has served his purpose.All has gone as planned..." (Phase 32) Wraith flies to his left and points his staff."Poor it on,he can't defend against all of us!",he says as he fires a powerblast from the staff.The blast passes by Andromeda,as he stretches to dodge it,and barely misses Omega as it smashes into the wall. (Phase 23) Andromeda replies,"I tire of this game.If you leave now you will live.You stay...you will die..."He raises a fist high in the air and brings it crashing down on Vengeance.Vengeance flies backwards 80 feet and lands in a heap at the edge of the electrified floor,unmoving.Afterburn rushes up to Andromeda's right side and takes a swing that is just a blur.Andromeda dodges the blow easily and smiles at her.
9:20:15 pm (Phase 22) Omega calls out, "Vengeance!" Poundage yells,"Someone with the ability teleport Shatterang to Vengeance or vice versa. If they can,Wraith call for the base to teleport Vengeance and Shatterang." Poundage leaps across the room aiming to bash in the garage door on the other side of the room.He lands squarely,smashing into the door.The steel door starts to buckle and there is a foot diameter hole punched through the center of it.Glancing through the door Poundage sees a dark room with dim lights here and there.Scattered about the room seems to be numerous pieces of machinery,some large and some larger.One piece over to the left seems to have a shelf extending out about three feet at floor level.There are two red flashing lights on it's panel and as Poundage watches one of those lights turn to a steady green.As the light turns green a small beep is heard coming from Andromeda's chest pad. (Phase 21) Omega looks to Alloy and says, "Try to keep him busy, big guy. Remember, don't let him leave this room! I can't explain right now, but trust me on this!"Imp looks around then says,"Someone!I can't do anything from over here.Get me across this electrified floor!"Reaper flies till he is just past the electrified floor and reaches out with his telekinesis.As he feels his telekinesis reaching for Andromeda's ankle,Andromeda yanks his ankle away. (Phase 19) Vyra mimics Reaper's actions, but rather than grabbing the other ankle, she grabs his torso, trying to limit the ways he can strangle free.She also finds as she grabs at his torso he twist out of the way.Omega looks to Afterburn, "We have to find a way to connect. He has very strong defenses. I'm afraid we might wear ourselves down trying to pound him. I think Vyra and Reaper have the right idea. Let's try to turn his own weapons against him."
9:20:15 (Phase 18) Andromeda smiles at the beep from his chest pad and then scowls as he spies Poundage near the door."Get away from there!I defeated you once,miscreant,and I will again."Omega again tries his flame attack against Andromeda--just one blast this time.The flame leaps from his hand and flies past Andromeda's left shoulder,shooting out into the middle of the room.Omega looks to Wraith and says, "Wraith,can you use the badge on Vengeance to do what Poundage suggested and teleport both him and Shattarang to the Guardian Base? You said they could teleport both you and what you can carry--could we place Shattarang into physical contact with Vengeance and activate the recall?I think we might need your power here. You could alert Lord Galen that they are being teleported to the base." (Phase 17) Wraith replies,"Yes we can do that."He taps his badge as he runs over and picks up Shattarang."Base,prepare to teleport Vengeance and a passenger.Alert Lord Galen that both are unconscious but the passenger needs to be detained."Alloy transforms into a slick metal on the floor and works his way under Andromeda's feet.He then begins to angle himself to create a ramp,aiming Andromeda toward the electrified floor.Andromeda does indeed slide almost six feet toward that floor. (Phase 12) As he is being picked up,Shattarang lets out a moan and stirs.He looks up into Wraith's face and says,"My,my...not the person I wanted to wake up to...where's that sexy girl?"Suddenly there is a whirring sound as the remaining gun turret turns and targets Reaper.With a boom it fires and the beam strikes Reaper square in the back.Reaper falls to the floor with a thump and doesn't move. (Phase 8) With one large step Andromeda moves to stand next to Poundage."Little man,you have many guts...lets see what they look like."He raises a fist and brings it crashing down.Poundage makes a quick step to his right as the fist smashes into the floor.Afterburn rushes over behind Andromeda and says, "PickOnSomeOneYourOwnSize." She takes a swing at the large man and is surprised when his body stretches away from her swing.
9:20:15 (Phase 7) Omega looks to the spot where Reaper fell. "Damn, we just can't get a break." Poundage turns to face Andromeda and balls up his fist.He swings but barely grazes the dodging behemoth.Poundage leaps across the room and lands between Imp and Vyra.He yells, "There are machines directly connected to him inside that room!.Vyra,try to teleport the downed man near Vengeance to Vengeance."He turns to face Andromeda,"Let's try and get him outside." (Phase 6) Imp looks at Poundage with a frustrated look,"I tell you what...you get him outside..I need in that room..."She places her hands on her hips,"I need across that floor to get into that room !"In the large room Omega looks to the rupture Poundage created in the garage door and wonders if it might not be time to change tactics. He looks to Afterburn and points, "That may be where he has the genetic device hidden. Possibly a power source too. Using these weapons against him is proving to be too risky. Let's see if we can locate the power source and simply deactivate them--at least that will even the playing field...a little." Afterburn scans the area,noting the distance to gather speed., "StandBack...I'llGetThroughTheDoor." (Phase 4) Vyra Flies over till she is hovering close Andromeda and concentrates on him.She can't find any true weakness,but feels she understands,a little,how he fights.Omega replies to Afterburn, "You and Imp should also use your paralysis attacks against Shattarang. They won't be effective against Andromeda until we wear him down. And his stretching abilities seem to make him nearly impervious to direct physical attacks. I think energy-based attacks are our best bet against Andromeda right now, but Shattarang may not be able to defend so well against the paralysis."
9:20:15 pm (Phase 3) Omega fires yet another flame attack at Andromeda.The flame leaps forward and hits Andromeda high on his left side.Andromeda seems barely to notice but glares at Omega."Everything is at the ready.Let's see what you guys have."Omega then flies back across and lands next to Imp. Omega turns to Imp and says, "Get ready. Afterburn is going to try to take out his power source. If she doesn't succeed, then I can fly you across. We do need to take a look inside that room but we may need to help Wraith first." Imp looks anxious but stands he ground. (Phase 2) Omega looks towards Wraith and calls out, "Wraith, can you handle Shattarang or do you need some help? Drop him down onto the floor!" Wraith gives a smile, "Oh I can handle him..." He wraps his arms around the villain he is carrying and squeezes.Shattarang lets out a loud grunt but remains conscious. (Turn 3 Phase 45) Afterburn makes a circuit of the room,gaining speed.As she circles near the dented door she throws her body into the it.The breech grows,now being a large hole about 3 feet in diameter.Afterburn staggers back slightly but remains on her feet.As Andromeda stares at her,eyes narrowed in anger.
9:20:30 pm (Phase 35) Omega replies to Wraith, "Okay, guy. Just watch out for that boomerang of his."Wraith smiles at Omega and squeezes again.Shattarang let's out a groan,then collapses in Wraith's arms."Boomerang not a problem.",Wraith says as he flies over to Vengeance and drops Shattarang's body.Omega grabs Imp and flies across the room, careful to avoid the weapons systems. Omega tells her, "I know you don't want to hear this from me, but be careful. Whatever's in that room, Andromeda doesn't want us anywhere near it. I get the feeling we are about to seriously tick him off."Imp smiles slightly,giggles and replies,"Good,then he won't be thinking clearly..."Omega drops Imp near Afterburn. Omega then arcs up and fires a double blast of flame near the opening in the garage door, attempting to expand it even more.The flames smash into the door and the hole grows to almost six feet in diameter.Omega points to the opening and yells to Afterburn and Imp, "Destroy or disable the equipment in that room! Proceed with caution, there may be traps." From Wraith's badge Lord Galen is heard,"Wraith, Vengeance. Are you alright? Can I be of any assistance?"Wraith answers,"Vengeance is down and I will be teleporting him with two others.Shattarang is one and should be detained.The best assistance you can give right now is to take care of these three when they arrive." (Phase 30) Afterburn zips through the large hole and steps to the first machine she sees and smacks it hard with both fist.The machine cracks slightly and sparks begin to fly. (Phase 23) Andromeda brushes past Imp and rushes through the whole in the door."Witch !",he screams as he backhands Afterburn.Afterburn flies and smashes into the wall,grunting at the impact.She mumbles something under her breath.Andromeda reaches up and taps his breast pad.He smiles a large smile,"Death comes for you all...but I shall return..."From a large piece of machinery in the northeast corner a steady beeping begins.Behind the heroes the door leading to the electrified floor starts to swing shut but is unable as he catches on Vengeance's prone body
9:20:30 pm (Phase 23) "You bastard!" Omega calls to Andromeda after his attack against Afterburn.Afterburn mumbles,"I'mO.K. ButIDon'tLikeThatBeeping." Omega then looks to Imp, "What's the beeping noise? What is he up to?" Imp looks inside the room,"I'm not sure,I'll have to go inspect,but I have a bad feeling about this..." Poundage charges the door swinging shut. In an attempt to make it malfunction or break it,he will start pushing it. "I suggest everyone in the room exit. I'm sure that was no idol threat.I don't know how long I can hold this."The door starts to give slightly and Poundage is able to hold it open,even push it open a little further. Poundage keeps one foot close to Vengeance for a quick escape if needed.Omega looks to Vyra, "It's probably too late now, but we should probably try to destroy the device on his chest. I should have thought of that sooner."As he finishes Lord Galen is heard through Wraith's badge,"Affirmative Wraith. I have just had the base assess your situation. The base suggests you lure Andromeda outside and use the Striker's weapons to immobilize him." Wraith replies,"I'm not sure we can lure him outside...he seems to have activated some sort of trap,trying to trap us here."Omega then looks to Wraith and asks, "Wraith...how far away is that park you mentioned? Would it be possible to teleport there with Andromeda then fly in the Striker and use its weapons against him?" Wraith looks at Omega,"The park is on the other side of town.I could probably grab him and teleport to the base,but then would have to hold him and teleport out.I'm not sure we want him locked inside the base HQ.I agree with Poundage,he has a reason behind the door closing and I'm sure it's not good."
9:20:30 pm (Phase 20) Poundage continues to struggle with the door,"Someone grab Maxi-Miss. Wraith, maybe you should blink him to the base. Have the base put you in a locked down room." Wraith shakes his head,"If I teleport him we go to the base HQ.We could lock that room down but I repeat,I don't think we want to lock him in the base HQ.He could create far more havoc if he somehow took control of Guardian equipment." Poundage continues, "As many as possible can blink back with Vengeance. All I know is,he is in that room,we are in this room. I have a real bad feeling about that."Feeling the growing sense of dread growing within him, Omega knows his sixth sense is trying to tell him something. He yells out, "Fall back!" He then adds, "Alloy, get Maxi-Miss. Vyra, get Reaper. Wraith--teleport Vengeance and Shattarang to Guardian Base. Do as Poundage suggested. Head for the door!"Omega flies toward Imp as Wraith taps his badge,"Base,recall Vengeance plus a passenger.Lord Galen,Vengeance and Shattarang teleporting to HQ now."Vengeance's and Shattarang's bodies disappear with a blink and Omega scoops up Imp as he flies past.Wraith flies toward Maxi-Miss,"I'll grab Maxi-Miss and Reaper then port to the base.Fly the Striker back to base."He swoops down and grabs Maxi-Miss and flies toward Reaper.Omega sweeps through the whole in the door and grabs Afterburn.He turns and prepares to leave.Wraith makes it to Reaper and picks up his limp body.A tap of his badge and all three,Wraith,Maxi-Miss and Reaper disappear.As Omega looks about the room he notices a strange glow coming from the machine in the southwest corner.It is a large machine but has a shelf at floor level,a platform big enough for a man to stand on.It is this shelf that seems to be glowing a bright green.He looks further around the room and notices the same green glow surrounding a large,oddly shaped machine in the middle of the room.As he watches,the green glow intensifies about the machine and the machine starts to take on a green,transparent look.Omega tells the girls, "I don't like the idea of running from this fight but I sense that if we don't get out of here now, we might not ever get out of here." Afterburn squirms a little in his grasp and he knows she wants nothing more than to go at Andromeda.Imp is busy studying the room in awe."Oh my God...the glowing machine,it's the recombinator...he's ripping a hole in the fabric of space...he's taking the machine with him...but there isn't the equipment here to do that...the rip is being caused FROM THE OTHER SIDE...please I want out of here..." Andromeda turns to glare at the trio,then he begins to smile."Don't worry your little head girl...I won't be gone long...you may have foiled me now but when next you see me I will come as a conqueror..." His head leans back and the room is filled with his laughter.
9:20:30 pm (Phase 19) Omega looks to Afterburn, "Don't worry--we'll get another shot at him. As soon as I get the two of you out of here, I'm circling back to destroy the recombinator. Get Imp to the Striker and go with Scar and the others to Guardian Base." He then turns to Imp, "Best estimate--would a double blast of my flame ability wreck that device?"Imp watches as Afterburn scowls then studies the glowing machine.The machine is awash in the green glow and the wall can clearly be seen THROUGH the machine."Yes a double blast would definitely take the machine out of commission...if you hit...from the looks of things I'm not sure you will hit,the machine isn't all here,if you know what I mean."Omega turns to Imp and replies, "I know Imp but I have to try..." He then feels a sharp pain in the back of his head and yells out, "Ow!" as the Omega Force screams at him that this would be the wrong decision. "Okay, okay...I get it," Omega mutters under his breath.He yells back to the others, "Alloy! Vyra! Get out of here! Quickly!"(Phase 17) The remaining turret whirs slightly as it tracks Poundage.The barrel erupts with a boom.The energy blast catches Poundage squarely in the back.He continues to struggle with the door, "Hey kids, Can we stop running our jibs and get the hell out of here? Omega stop with the orders and let's go." Omega turns to Imp and asks, "Imp--something just occurred to me--if Andromeda is from...somewhere else...and there are others just like him there, then why does he need that machine anyway? Why is he trying to hard to take it with him? Why duplicate himself? Why don't they just invade? If they are just like him then they would be virtually unstoppable."Imp falls into deep thought,her forehead filling with wrinkles.Omega adds to Afterburn, somewhat apologetically, "I know how you feel. I hate running away too. But my...sixth sense...is screaming for us to get out. I've never felt it this strongly before...ever." Afterburn looks tries to look into Omega's eyes.She gazes hard at him a moment then softens up, "ThatBastardHitMe...IOweHim..." (Phase 11) Vyra flies past the door and reaches out with her telekinetics.She feels like she almost has a grasp of the pad on Andromeda's chest but feels it slip from her 'grasp'. (Phase 8) Andromeda looks toward Vyra,an evil grin on his face.His arm zips out quickly to punch her.She dodges quickly and Andromeda's fist slams the floor.Andromeda let's out a howl of pain then with one large step,walks to the glowing machine in the southwest corner.As he steps on the pad,he and the glowing machine wink out in a flash of green light.The room is suddenly quiet for a moment,very quiet.The silence is quickly broken by a "beep",a moment of silence,"beep",a shorter moment of silence,"beep".The beeps start to come faster and faster.The machine Afterburn attacked begins to glow an orange hue and emitting a low hum that begins to get louder.In the other room the whirring turret suddenly stops,the floor stops crackling with energy and the door stops pushing against Poundage.
9:20-9:30 pm Alloy screams, "Sounds like a plan let's get out of here!" Vyra stands gaping. "What's that beeping?" Omega continues to fly towards the door. Now that the turrets and electric floor have been deactivated, he gently lowers Afterburn to the floor and hands Imp down to her so that she can run along at a faster rate of speed.Afterburn gives Omega a knowing look and he sees the concern in her eyes.She then turns and zips out the exit. Omega follows after as fast as he can. "Vyra, It is a bomb more than likely! Now that there is no resistance, you guys can stand around as long as you want." He turns and leaps his way to the exit,covering ground quickly.Alloy dashes for the exit.In passing he reaches with one hand and snatches Vyra in passing.Afterburn is the first out of the parking garage followed quickly by Omega and Poundage.As Alloy,carrying Vyra,exits the garage,Poundage hollers at the police and reporters, "Everyone get out of here NOW! There is going to be an explosion!" He runs toward the perimeter the police have set up about a block from the garage entrance.Suddenly there is a low rumble that quickly grows louder.The ground shakes violently and the heroes are thrown to the ground as fire and smoke erupt from the garage entrance.The shockwave sweeps past the heroes on the ground,shakes the Striker as it hovers and reaches the buildings outlining the park.Windows shatter and car alarms begin their shrill beeping.As the dust begins to settle the heroes start to get to their feet.There is a series of low rumblings,another cloud of dust from the garage entrance then all is quiet except the numerous car alarms.Afterburn looks around slowly.Noticing how white Imp's face has become,she steps over to her and hugs her quietly.The policemen begin to rise to their feet and one gets on the radio to report the incident.The reporters are a bit slower to recover but also begin to get to their feet,shock registering on their faces.
9:30-9:40 pm Vyra makes her way towards the Striker, hoping the Guardians will stay true to letting them rest there.The Striker slowly start to lower itself to the ground.Omega takes a quick look around to make sure everyone did, in fact, make it out okay. He surveys the damage for a moment and then walks over to Imp.He places his hand gently on Imp's shoulder and gives her a reassuring squeeze. Then, in his best "concerned father" voice, Omega tells her, "It's okay, Imp. I know how you feel--that was a very frightening experience...for all of us. But you did great down here tonight. I mean that. I'm proud of you."Imp hugs Afterburn for a moment then pushes her away as she shakes Omega's hand from her shoulder. "I WASN'T SCARED !" ,she says as she stomps toward the Striker,flipping her hair from her face.Omega looks to Afterburn and nods.She gives him a weak smile and a wink.Slowly she removes her armbands and begins to follow Imp toward the Striker.Omega looks to the rest of the group, "Well, Andromeda seems to be gone for the moment and emergency people should be able to handle things here. I suppose we should go back to the Guardian base, check on the others and talk about what to do when he returns." Omega then walks over to Poundage, pulling him aside to speak privately. "I picked up on a little bit of concern down there about the way I was doing things during the battle. I didn't mean to come across as trying to be the big-shot leader of this whole show. Honestly, I never intended to be the leader of anything I sort of just got thrown into this thing with the Protectors--but since I have that responsibility, I'm trying to do the best I can. I have this sixth sense which kicks in sometimes and it just went into overdrive down there. I sensed what was about to happen and was just trying to get everyone to safety before that thing blew." Omega adds, "You came down here today and risk your life. I respect that. If you have problems then I'll listen but I don't want to start off with hard feelings. We cool?"The Striker gently lands and the ramp extends from it's side.Scar walks down the ramp, "Is everyone OK?Anyone need help?Lord Galen would like us all to board the Striker and return to the base for medical attention."
9:40-9:50 pm Vyra,Afterburn,Imp and Alloy make their way onto the Striker and find seats inside.Poundage grabs Omega before he enters,"First of all, please stop with the 'I got stuck with it' routine. It's getting old." Omega replies,"Fair enough. I was only trying to explain, not make excuses. I accept my role. But what's really getting old is your attitude. I suggest you alter it."" Now, the things that bother me are simple. You blast a guy at a bar and then continue to badger him in a hospital bed where he is way out numbered, then the whole touching thing, Why?""You weren't even at that bar so I'd appreciate you not commenting about situations you know nothing about. Further, you should realize why both I and Wojo acted the way we did at the hospital. We were using a police interrogation technique to obtain information. If you had been in or around law enforcement you would understand. For all we knew at the time, Reaper could have been one of Andromeda's henchmen. And if you remember, I was the one who asked Wojo to release Reaper after we figured things out. Trust me, Wojo could have detained him. Charged him even. I'm pretty sure he wanted to and would've been well within his right to do so. It was an unfortunate situation but it worked out okay and I think Reaper may now go on to become part of a superhero team, maybe even the Guardians. Seems like your memory is a bit selective to me. Either that or you just don't know what's going on.I don't know what you're talking about with 'the touching thing' but if you're referencing why I shake hands with people and sometimes make physical contact with my teammates, the reason is two-fold: to be polite--or to show a sense of connection and concern for their well being. That's important when leading a team. You know, to think about someone other than yourself. Also, as I have TRIED to explain to you already, part of my power is intuitive awareness. Sometimes making physical contact with someone lets me know things about them that might be important. Like whether or not they are about to be in danger, for example or--when I first meet them--whether or not they can be trusted."" You treat Imp like a child. She chose her life, not got stuck with it,give her a chance. The same with Afterburn.""Imp is 16. She IS a child as far as the law is concerned. I don't know her history yet and I doubt you do either so, once again, you're going off about something you know absolutely nothing about. And I have given her MORE than a chance. It's a major deal even allowing her to be here considering the legalities involved. Imp has been very valuable to what we have done so far and as soon as she calms down I'm going to make sure she knows that. Afterburn and I seem to be getting along fine. I have no question that she can handle herself. Alloy hasn't had any problems either. Besides, frankly, the way I interact with members of my team is really none of your concern. If there are problems there then I will deal with THEM. Not you."" You spend too much time changing orders. Let them react.""I'm not sure what orders you think were changed, but combat situations are fluid. You have to be adaptive. We encountered things we didn't expect and we rolled with the punches. You have to make quick decisions. Sometimes they may be right, sometimes wrong--but you'd best be ready to make them or people end up dead. You think you can do better then step up to the plate. Lead a team yourself. Join a team. Become a part of something other than yourself.""When I busted down the door and you had them go after it, it pissed me off. I was just jumping away to keep away from him and then go through the door. I could have destroyed everything in there had you guys just gone on and kept him busy. You guys made this big plan of attack for nothing, I came in and went for the door because it wasn't part of the plan." Omega slowly pulls off his visor and locks eyes with Poundage. Squaring his shoulders, Omega looks at Poundage and speaks calmly and slowly. Omega checks himself so as not to loose his temper. "Alright, up until now I've been willing to listen to you but this part is just ridiculous. Now, let me get this straight--last I heard you were staying on the Striker. Then you come busting into combat to do something that ISN'T PART OF THE PLAN. Something that you tell no one about? So, we're supposed to read your mind, is that it? Last time I checked there were no telepaths in this group. You say we made a plan for nothing but yet in the very next breath you're talking about how you come in to do something that isn't part of that plan--that no one knows about--and you wonder why things didn't work out? You're 'pissed off' because we followed your lead? Right. Man, get over yourself.I thought you were coming in just to attack Andromeda, which is what you should have done. Going into that second room was a mistake, but once the door was breached then destroying that mechanism became a priority concern in my opinion. And, by the way, destroying the genetics machine was something we had discussed from the beginning.And, let me say this for about THE THIRD TIME now, my intuitive powers were SCREAMING at me concerning what was about to happen down there. And, in case you hadn't noticed, EVERYONE was at least TRYING to work together during the battle. Everyone EXCEPT YOU. Keep in mind that if not for the Protectors, Imp especially, then we may not have found Andromeda and Shattarang at all tonight.We all made mistakes tonight, myself included. I accept my share of the responsibility because that's what leaders--that's what MEN do. We try to learn from our mistakes and build from there. But don't try to blame your mistakes on the rest of us--or on me--by making out like you would have saved the day if only we had done things as you had envisioned. Because that's crap. You want to play this loner maverick then that's your business but you don't do it on my time. If you're incapable of being a team player then you won't be fighting alongside us again because no matter how powerful you are, I don't need that kind of immature, cry baby attitude on or even around my team. I came over here to try to work things out with you and to talk to you man to man but obviously there's only one of those standing here and it isn't you. You need to grow up."" As far as planning for the next time, I think I will wait for the next time. You can't really plan against a super villain.""Maybe, maybe not. But we will at least TRY to make some preparations. And, until you change your attitude I don't think there should be a next time for you. As I said, I respect that you came down here to risk your life tonight but after this conversation, I've lost a lot of the respect I had for you. You strike me as an arrogant, self-centered would-be bully that no one has ever had the guts to stand up to before now. Mr. Billy Joe Badass who goes around smashing things up and spitting out four letter words. I mean, are you even from this planet? We're heroes. We don't act like that. You don't scare me and you don't impress me. You have a lot of power but that power comes with a certain responsibility. Until you learn that, perhaps next time you should stay where you belong--behind."Omega turns quickly and walks to the Striker.Poundage glares at his back and then leaps away,headed for the Guardian base.He leaps for a few moments and lands at the lake in Rathbone park to see the Striker lower itself into the bridge sticking out of the lake.Moments after the Striker lowers into the bridge,the bridge disappears into the lake.
9:50-10:00 pm Poundage gets on his cel-phone and calls the base,asking to be let in.When the bridge extends itself,he leaps and flies over the lake and down into the base.Poundage stomps over to Omega."Listen here buddy, You don't have to respect me. Also, you don't tell me what to do. Why did you ask me what I thought, if you couldn't handle my answer? As far as Imp goes, she may be 16, but if she wants to be a hero, she'll do it with or without the team. She has made her decision. You said we have to adapt in a fight? Well let them adapt. I don't think I can lead a team any better. Do you think Wojo wasn't asking every hero he met, or do you think you were hand picked? I didn't attack Andromeda because I was near death. I was merely trying to help by destroying the machines. Need I remind you who held the door, or was that just part of my bad attitude." Poundage looks to everyone "Listen up everyone, it has been brought to my attention that not only am I not a man, but I was not helping down there, I was making mistakes. Sorry I didn't wait for Omega to tell me what to do. Sorry I tried to stop Andromeda this morning and got my ass kicked. Sorry I was too weak to sacrifice myself by helping with Andromeda. I thought maybe one of us should focus on the machines. Sorry, Omega says I was wrong." Poundage turns to Omega, "Unlike you, I am willing to air dirty laundry. You call me a bully and childish. I think calling someone names like that is immature. You don't have to be impressed or scared. I am not threatening you. All I know is you are the one that stepped in my face like a bully, and cried like a baby after I gave you the opinion you asked for." Turning to everyone again, "Yes, Omega asked me about the fight then called me names and even stepped up like he was going to hit me when I told him how I felt. Maybe I have reason not to join a team, but does that mean I should be excluded from battle. That is pretty much what was said." Poundage walks to Imp "I mean no disrespect to your team, but try to keep him focused on jumping bad at the villains, not the friends." Imp shrinks back from him slightly,eyes wide.Omega looks at Poundage for a moment and then replies, "Poundage. Maybe I was wrong about you. You caught me right after the battle. Maybe I took it wrong but I think you've taken some things about me wrong too. I think we just got off to a bad start and there have been some misunderstandings. I apologize for my earlier comments. I didn't mean to call names. I had some concerns, but I was out of line. I'm willing to bury the hatchet if you are. Just as long as you don't bury it in my neck. Maybe we have different styles but that doesn't mean we can't work together or even get along. I tend to get defensive sometimes when I feel like I'm being disrespected and that's how I felt back at the park. I guess you felt the same way. So now that we've both yelled at each other, I'll take your concerns into consideration. Fair enough?"Omega thinks for a moment and then adds, "Heh. I wasn't stepping up to attack you before, by the way. I thought you were about to take a swing at me and I figured I damned well better be ready for it. I do think you're wrong about one thing though, Poundage. I think you should consider joining a team. And before you get defensive--no, I'm NOT telling you what to do here. But I think you could be a good addition. If you think you might want to join the Protectors, contact me or Wojo. I know you probably have issues with us and maybe it's like mixing oil and water but who knows? It might work out better than you think. If you don't want to go that route, maybe consider one of the other teams. I really do think it's better for us to be united."
10:00-10:10 pm Poundage takes a long look at Omega. "Paint me to be the bad guy? Me bury the hatchet in your back? That wasn't a disrespectful thing to say was it? Please go on with the fairy tale. To stand here and say I made any gesture or sign of hitting you is preposterous. I merely gave you an answer to your question. You stepped to me. I will bury the hatchet, but it is disrespectful comments such as that that will make me angry." Lord Galen says,"Poundage, Omega, I understand there have been some harsh words. I hope you two can work it out in a friendly fashion. And yes Omega I had the base shut down the power to that sector of the city. I'm glad it helped as you say."Omega looks to Galen and then to Poundage, "I think we can work things out if we can all just try to respect one another. I know respect has to be earned but we have to start somewhere. I understand there has been some fueding among the heroes in this city. I started out tonight with the goal of trying to bring people together and instead end up getting into a feud myself. Why don't we all agree to make tonight a new start for all of us?"Lord Galen says to the base," Base, prepare the medlabs on the strikers for visitors." He then turns towards the heroes, "Anyone in need of medical attention can enter the medlabs on the strikers and pick a bed. Don't be alarmed as the medlab is also run by the base computer and all medical procedures are automated. No harm will come to you. As for the medlab in the base it is under security level red since Shattarang's arrival. Only Guardians may enter or exit."Omega then tells Poundage, "I understand you might have reservations about joining a team and I know some have been apprehensive about joining us because of the scanning requirement. However, as Vyra already knows, I've arranged for a way to circumvent it and obtain a limited membership in the team. I don't like the 'limited' aspect much, but it's the best I could do for now. I don't think it will be permanent. You could have access to a base and some equipment, although not on the same level as the Guardians. I've also asked Vyra to join and to keep a leadership role. Anyway, I won't go into more right now other than to say that there is an open invitation here to anyone who is interested. And even if you don't join anyone Poundage then no, that doesn't mean you should be excluded from combat situations." Lord Galen replies to Poundage." I also believe we are all better united and believe you would make one hell of an addition to any team. I only hope you can quit making fun of my name. In your own words, it is kind of childish."Poundage looks to everyone again. "As far as being united, we don't have to be on teams to be united. That is almost a prejudice. Scar and I had a good fight together. I took a shot for him. He isn't on a team. As long as I fight along side of you and not against you, doesn't that count. I would take a shot for anyone in this base,(laughingly) outside of Shatterang.OK, I may come off a little 'assholish', if that's a word. The one thing I guarantee you is, you will always get the same Poundage. Straight, up front, honest and willing to fight for my city. Lord Galen, sorry it bothered you so much to joke around. I sincerely appreciate the use of your medlabs here."Lord Galen speaks to all the gathered heroes,"You are all welcome to stay as long as you like and I hope in time I can meet and talk with you each individually. As for the condition of our other heroes, The medlab hasn't found any life threatening injuries. They are resting comfortably. Those of you who do not need immediate medical attention can get some rest or a bite to eat. Just let me know what you need and I will do my best to accommodate you."Vyra bows her head once more and says, "I thank you once more, Lord Galen, your courtesy hasn't dimmed over time."Omega then turns to Galen and says, "I don't intend to be at cross-purposes with the Guardians. I want us to work together and be connected as much as possible. But if you--or anyone here--has other suggestions about better ways to unite the city's heroes then I'm willing to listen. My intent is to form a team with a less expansive scope than the Guardians, who can help to protect the city in times of crisis--like today."Omega then shifts the subject to the recent battle,and Poundage looks at the heroes and then walks to the Striker to find a bed. "Now, as for Andromeda--I'm really not sure we can tell you anything about Andromeda that you don't already know. He appears to be from another dimension. Imp can probably shed more light on that. He spoke of a conquering force. His powers seem to include very hard skin which acts as a sort of natural armor, stretching abilities and great strength. Also, when he attacked us his fists seemed to glow so maybe this is some sort of carrier attack but I'm not sure what type, exactly. He also seems to be very militaristic in nature. Well prepared and always ready for battle. One thing I don't understand though is this--if all members of his race do have the same abilities and they want to conquer us, why don't they simply invade? Why did he need the genetic duplication machine in the first place? Whatever the reasons, it's probably a safe bet that Andromeda will be back--and there may be others like him to worry about as well. That's a very chilling thought. Poundage seems to think we can't really plan to fight against the supervillains and maybe he's right, but I'm of the mind that we should at least give some thought as to what to do if--when--Andromeda appears again."Imp,in her element,steps forward,"I have some ideas on that but will only be able to finalize them if Lord Galen will allow me access to a computer and some of the bases files."While she speaks Afterburn grabs Omega's hand and gives it a little tug."I appreciate the offer,Lord Galen,but I'm not seriously hurt and I'm about ready to get out of this suit and call it a day.Mind if Omega flies me out of here?"
8:10-8:20 am Poundage sleeps in the Striker.He is awakened by his phone beeping.Poundage wipes his eyes and answers.From the other end he hears, "Poundage? This is Omega. Sorry to bother you. Are you still in the Guardian Base? I'm outside now and can't find a way in. Would you please ask someone down there to let me inside?" Omega pauses for a moment and then adds, "And hey--sorry I was such a dick to you yesterday. I've been thinking about the things you said and you have some valid points. I had no right to talk to you the way I did. You've been defending this city longer than me."
8:20-8:30 am Poundage grumbles as he answers, "I'll get somebody." He hangs up the phone and speaks to the base, "Base,contact one of the Guardians.Omega waits outside and would like to be let in." When he finishes speaking he rolls over and returns to sleep.
1:00-1:10 pm Poundage slowly wakes and exits the Striker.For a moment he looks at the Striker and realizes the Striker I is missing.He wonders what may have happened but continues down to the dining room to grab a bite.
1:10-1:20 pm Poundage grabs some lunch and sits to eat.
1:30-1:50 pm Poundage finishes eating and decides to go get some rest in the medlab.He walks into the medlab to find Imp and Shadowcat both on beds and those two beds closed off from the rest of the medlab,behind clear walls.He looks oddly at Imp and Shadowcat behind the clear walls and lies down on one of the empty beds.As he does the base says, "...I have a incoming message from Omega..." "Guardians, this is Omega again. Afterburn and I have acquired a great deal of vital information concerning Project Anti-Body. The information is in the form of hard copy files, computer discs and CDs. It seems to contain graphs and drawings dealing with genetics, but I'm no expert of this sort of thing--we're bringing the information in for further analysis. We'll be back at your base in ten." From behind her clear prison Imp can be heard, "Cool..now we're getting somewhere...Big B,let's hit the government retirement files,encryption mod 88..." The base replies, "...you got it,chick..." Vengeance looks at Wraith, "What were you saying Wraith?" Wraith nods toward the door and the two step out into the medical office.Imp glances in Poundage direction and hangs her head. "Umm...Poundage...sir...I have some news.It's a long story but the Legacy Virus seems to have mutated and now infects others,not just mutants.I am infected...and...well...you should get tested.I'm not sure if it can infect you with your...umm...physiology.But I think you should at least be sure." She glances at him then quickly glances away mumbling a quiet, "I'm so sorry..." Suddenly the base is heard, "...checkmate...shall I reset the board?..." The door to the medlab 'swooshes' open and Omega walks in followed by Afterburn.Omega has a handful of files and a metal box he hands through a clear box,built into one of the clear walls.Afterburn smiles and gives Imp a wave.Imp smiles and starts to file quickly through the pages. "Yea...of course...mmm...interesting...wow..." She looks up, "Some of this stuff is brilliant! Big B,upload multiple discs...single file...code-source material...correlate with government virus files..." She begins to feed the disc one by one into the lab top onher lap.The base replies, "...data feed optimal..keep'em comin'...I have some information...after leaving the Anti-Body project,General Stern took a position with 'The Friends of Humanity'...security advisor...last seen in public with the group 9 months ago...at that point he seemed at odds with the party head,a Mr.Jaworski...from that point he left the party payroll and his government pension was routed to an off shore bank account...'The Friends of Humanity' have an office on the 8th floor of the Elliott Building (Area 9) here in Midville...As for Dr. Truman,I am puzzled by the fact I can not find any trace of him after project Antu-Body...none at all...the only thing I have been able to find is some land in Colorado...the deed has his name on it but searches show it to be empty land..."
1:50-2:00 pm Vengeance and Wraith enter the medlab. As the two step into the medlab Vengeance asks the base, "Base you have heard Wraith's story.Is there a solution to this problem,a way to stop the fear and hatred before it is to late?" The base replies, "...a cure would help immensely...public shows of support the public seeing heroes out and going about their business will help calm things...the public understanding that a cure is possible and being searched for...the status of said search for a cure being well known...all can help calm the public...but the hatred?..." The gathered heroes sit in silence a moment as Imp taps keys.Poundage breaks the silence,speaking to Imp, "Before I am tested, I need to have a word or two with you in private. Once the party dies down in here, I would like to enter your 'bubble' and have a private conversation." Imp looks up from the keyboard,a puzzled look on her face.Slowly her lips curve into a smile, "Hey everybody...I'm the girl in the bubble! " She giggles to herself a moment then mumbles, "Sheeesh,lighten up people..." Her eyes find Poundage and she seems to study him a moment, "I welcome a visit in 'my world',Poundage but if you not infected now why risk to coming in? Perhaps when the others leave we can speak,you out there,me in here." Imp looks at Poundage a moment longer when Omega speaks, "Part of my power is that I'm...connected to a separate sentience. It knows things that I don't and sometimes I'm able to access it, but it speaks in riddles. This sentience, the Omega Force, told me there were three men, each with a key to this puzzle. Three men: the reluctant one, the leader of men and the healer that hates. 'The reluctant one'--I think we can assume that is Dr. James; 'the leader of men' is General Stern, and 'the healer who hates' could possibly be Dr. Truman. At any rate, I believe that our finding the cure to the Legacy Virus depends upon us finding these three men." Omega continues, "Right now, it seems the best solid lead we have is this 'Friends of Humanity' organization. I think we should check out the Midville branch and see if we can find additional information on Stern's current whereabouts. Hmmmm...offshore bank accounts? I'd also like to learn more about this land that Truman owns in Colorado. But for now..." Omega looks around the room, "So, who else is up for paying a little visit to our resident humanitarians?" Wraith is the first to speak, "We are sure there is a connection between this Truman and the Virus? Then why not both.We send someone to speak to this group and we load up the Striker and check out this land in Colorado.A simple fly over isn't against the law,and with the Striker we could get a good idea what is there,if anything." Imp replies, "Hey...all we have right now is time...but not to change the subject,but I have some info on the virus." Tapping a couple of keys she peers at the screen, "The disc and files give a good look at the basis of the virus.What we have is just the beginning,the virus had to be modified from this configuration to be as lethal as it has become.I am cross referencing what we know of the virus in both myself and Shadowcat with the info in the files.This should give us a little bit of a head start.Let me tell you,this work is brilliant.The virus is completely undetectable until it mutates to match the genetic structure of it's victim.So if it is detected,it's too late,it has already started to do it's damage.The virus in the files was slow to work,but the version in my blood acts quickly,a few days is all it needs.I'm assuming the person or persons responsible will have developed an anti-dote to protect themselves from infection." She pauses,looking from one hero to another. "Now the bad news,the virus was built to mutate to match genetic signatures.But it seems to have mutated further and any anti-dote will have to like-wise be mutated,possibly on an individual basis.The only way known to genetically alter something that small...is the recombinator." The room is silent,no-one is sure what to say.The base is the first to speak, "...excuse me...I have the medical test back on Vengeance,Reaper,Wraith,Omega,and Afterburn...Vengeance,negative...Reaper,positive...Wraith,positive...Omega,negative...Afterburn,positive...the maedlab only has four beds so I have prepared the Striker II and it's three beds as a quarantine also...I recommend everyone else leave the medlab while I stabilize the new patients..." Afterburn slumps on a bed,her head hanging when Wraith speaks, "I'll take the bed in the Striker II,Vengeance,Omega please hurry...find those men...do what you have too."
2:00-2:10 pm Omega looks around the room and the heroes who have just gotten the bad news, "I'm sorry. All of you...I'm sorry." Vengeance looks around and his head starts to hang.Omega looks to Vengeance and says quietly, "Excuse me just one moment." He walks over to Afterburn and looks her in the eye. He whispers to her,then looks around the room and says louder, "We're going to get through this. ALL of us." Omega looks to Wraith, "Wraith...the Base is correct. We need to calm public fears. Educate the public about what's going on. Be honest with them but also let them know we are working towards a solution...a cure. We also need to contact all the other metas who were involved in yesterday's battle against Andromeda if we can. They might be infected and they need to get tested. We should consider using mass media. You should be able to handle that from here. I'd handle it myself, but I think I'm going to be too busy. Also, I think it's time to contact the other Guardians. The sooner they know what's going on, the better. Do it discretely if need be, but Galen especially needs to know." Vengeance replies, "See if Lord Galen can get some airtime on the local news and discuss the Legacy Virus,maybe calm down the public.Give the people the facts and discuss that this is a man made virus,designed to evoke a state of panic.Everyone should stay calm and the top minds our searching for a cure.That the New Guardians are doing all they can right now,that is if he is not infected.Imp could probably give him the facts and help him with what to say." Imp nods, "Yes I could help,but wouldn't telling the public the virus is man made,at this point,only create worse panic?" Omega then looks to Imp, "Imp, is there another machine...another Recombinator that we could use, other than the one Andromeda stole? Can we replicate one? If not, then we are going to have to go and take it back from him by force. We'll need to figure out a way to go after him. If he wants a damn war then by God, I'll give him a damn war. We'll contact every mutant and meta-human on Earth if we have to--raise an army if that's what it takes." Imp giggles slightly,then tries to to look serious. "I haven't been able to find another like it.I will start an exhaustive search.As for building another,or even ordering one from the manufacturer of the first,that would take weeks,even months.In that time the virus would ravage the public." Omega then walks over and nods at Vengeance. "I think we should split up and try to cover as much ground as possible. Can you fly the Striker to Colorado as Wraith suggested? Meanwhile, I'll pay the 'Friends of Humanity' a little visit and try to get more information on Dr. Truman." Suddenly Poundage speaks up, "Omega, why don't you go with Vengeance and I will talk to Imp, give some blood, and talk to the humanitarians." Omega shakes his head, "Also, I need to stay here to keep the 5 p.m. meeting to organize the Protectors team. We will need all the help we can get and I'm expecting Alloy and Vyra to show up there--if we can't contact them by other means, it may be our only way of contacting them at this point. And they could both be infected. The sooner we get to them, the better their chances of survival." Poundage replies, "OK, I can talk to Imp, give blood, and go to Colorado.Does the Striker have scanners?" The base replies to this question, "...the Striker has radar,thermal,sonic,infrared and low frequency scanners... Poundage nods, "Of course, if anything is there, it's probably underground. Maybe it is a good idea to get this "offshore" bank account's records and if possible, monitor it for any movement. Wherever the money goes, we go." Imp smiles, "Hey I like the way he thinks...on it..." She begins tapping keys on the laptop as Omega looks at Vengeance and Poundage, "Looks like this is our hands for the time being. A heavy responsibility to be sure. But I believe we are up to the task. God speed my friends." With that, Omega looks towards Afterburn. He smiles at her, winks and says, "Hey, cheer up--we're off to save the world. That's what us heroes do, right? That's why we put on these silly costumes? I'll contact you as soon as I have additional information..." She gazes at him for a long moment, "Now thats the flame boy I know...go get'em." Omega then exits the medlab wearing a look of grim determination.Looking to Imp,Poundage says, "If the legacy virus transfers only by touch, then I shouldn't be worried about (with a wink)'your world'." He turns to Vengeance, "If you can give me a second." Vengeance nods, "Base get Striker II ready.Do you know where we are going base? Or do I need maps.com?" He chuckles to himself as he exits the medlab and starts to head toward the Striker.
2:10-2:20 pm Poundage looks to everyone, "Please give me a moment with Imp and I will be ready." Everyone leaves,except Reaper and Afterburn,both who make themselves busy.Poundage enters the bubble. Quietly he speaks to Imp, "Imp, I have a lot to tell you and little time to cover it. First, if any of your friends are mutants, tell me where to find them and we can get them tested." For a moment she looks away then back at Poundage, "If you promise not to turn them in...most are runaway's and most have reason to run away.When you return I'll tell you how to find them,they do need to be tested.But we're running out of room to house infected people." Poundage nods, "Second, I am trusting this one to be in the utmost of confidence." He looks around to make sure no one can hear. "I am an alien. I can tell you the details later, but if the base and yourself do not practice "patient-doctor" confidentiality, I cannot let the base test me." She smiles a moment, "The base and I already know your an alien.The base had to do basic scans in order to treat you medically.Your physical make-up was definitely not human.And no one has found out yet,have they?" Poundage again nods and submits to the testing as he continues to talk with Imp. "Third, maybe if I do not have the virus, I cannot get it. Perhaps a test. Take my uninffected blood and try to contaminate it. If it rejects the virus, it could possibly lead to a treatment or cure." Imp nods as Poundage rises and walks out of the bubble.Reaper suddenly looks up. "Wait a second, can that teleporter be used as a filter? Like, if I teleported muddy water, could I program the teleporter to clean it before it reappears?" Imp looks at him a moment,then rolls her eyes, "Yes that is true of the teleporter,within reason...but I know where your headed with that line of thinking.Don't you think I have already thought of that? Let me put this in terms you can understand...the virus mutates to MATCH the genetic code of it's victim...MATCH...which means same...if I program the teleporter to filter that code,what am I left with? A collection of basic elements,water,nitrogen,iron,carbon...in very simple terms the teleporter would filter the PERSON's genetic code..." Poundage watches this exchange then starts to exit the medlab speaking through the base, "We can take Striker I, to cut travel time. I also have a meeting at five. I can hold my business over the phone as long as I have a fax machine." Imp returns to tapping keys on her keypad.
2:20-2:30 pm Poundage walks into the hangar, "Sucks we're going to miss the meeting. At least we can take care of everything on the ship. We need the base to make sure our call isn't monitored or traced. How funny would that be for Foggie to find out that two super-heroes own the Arena. Anyway, lets get going, I say we make this as quick as we can. If we find there is opposition, this trip may not be so quick." Poundage climbs aboard the Striker.After a couple minutes Vengeance climbs aboard the Striker,hands Poundage the badge. "If we get into trouble, we can return quickly. Let's go." The bridge extends and and the Striker rises out of the base.Once it clears the bridge,the bridge lowers into the lake and the Striker streaks westward.Suddenly Poundage's cel-phone beeps.Poundage answers and hears Scar's gravely voice.
2:30-2:40 pm Poundage speaks on the phone.He listens as Scar speaks, "Is this Poundage? I have had yet another vision of an event that will take place at the hospital during the evening hours.We must meet up some where." Poundage replies, "Good to hear from you Scar. I am currently on my way to Colorado to check on a lead. We have been ravaged by the Legacy Virus. A few heroes we have fought with have come up with it. It would be wise for you to go to the Guardian base and get tested. I will try to return by the evening hours. When I return we can go take care of this vision. I do suggest that you get tested. I will notify the Guardians that you need to be tested. Can you fly?" Scar replies, "No I can't." Poundage replies, "I will tell the Guardians you may need help getting in. I don't know if you know this, but there is a phone number for us all to stay connected,###-####. You could get a hold of Omega, I am sure he won't mind getting you in the bridge. If you would like, you can wait there for me. Thank you for the message, I appreciate it that you trust to call me." Scar has one last comment before he hangs up, "I also have a clue on Andromeda and the Recombinator." The base is heard, "...Lord Galen has authorized badge 5 temporarily to Poundage...I have an incoming message from Omega..." They hear the exited voice of Omega next, "Vengeance, Poundage--this is Omega. Listen, I know you guys are rushing to get to Colorado, but I need you to do a quick 180 and pick me up. I have additional information. I'll fill you in on everything when you come to get me, but I think it's best if I go to Colorado with you. Also, if you have a way to contact any other metas, ask them to go immediately to Guardian Base to rendezvous with us. I'll meet you there. Omega out."
2:40-2:50 pm The striker streaks west,carrying Vengeance and Poundage.As they fly the base is heard again, "...I have an incoming message..." The next voice heard is Omega's, "Striker, this is Omega again. Sorry to keep going back and forth, but we have continually evolving information on this situation. Imp has new intel. Imp, could you please tell them what you just told me?" The next voice is Imp's, "Hey guys,sorry to interrupt the wonderful flight.Poundage your idea to track the money was a gold mine.You two are flying into a hornets next,this Stern is loaded for bear.He seems to have a small airforce,powered infantry in advanced battle suits,at least one radar station and at least 2 batteries of anti-air missiles...Guys,he's prepared and I don't think just the two of you are enough to assault the mountain." Omega is then heard again, "Imp also believe he might have other advanced equipment. She believes that Stern is either very wealthy or has some major backing and I'm inclined to agree. I now think that we should abort the mission to Colorado until we can recruit more metas...If we go out there with a limited force and have to teleport back we'll tip them off and then when we do return they could be doubly prepared--or gone. We could issue a public call, but that might also tip our hand. I feel we should wait until after tonight's meeting, which has already been scheduled--get the new recruits from that and also bring Vyra, Alloy, Galen and Scar. Guys, it sounds like this Stern is ready to wage a minor war. We have to play this just right. The stakes are too high."
2:50-3:00 pm Vengeance speaks to the Striker as Poundage grabs his phone and dials the base.Vengeance speaks with the Striker, "Hey Base,turn us around and back to Midville.We will have to go to Colorado later tonight after we get reinforcements. Also,can you contact a Dr. Jill Yancy and have Imp tell her what she has learned of the virus.She was there when we found Kitty.Maybe she can be of some help.Also contact the X-men and tell them of the situation, of the mountain in Colorado.Maybe we can get them to help in the attack of the mountain.By the way what kind of defense does the Striker have and where is the location of Striker 3? Maybe you can fly that to the Midville base if it not already there.You can fly it,but can you shoot its weapons if it is unmanned or does some one have to man the guns?" Meanwhile Poundage phones Imp. "Tell me some locations and I will go get your friends. If you want to test them, I'll find a way and bring them back. If not I can take the nescesary implements and get samples myself. When I reach them I will first put you on speakerphone, so as not to freak them out. If you are worried about your identity, you can trust me. I feel some sort of past-life connection with you. If not, I'll just turn the speaker on and jump away. Just let me know. Is Scar there yet? I hope you don't mind, I sent him there because he said something about a recombinator and he needs to be tested." The base replies to Vengeance, "...course change effective immediately...Imp has fed me new co-ordinates...attempt to contact Dr.Yancy failed...contact with X-men,affirmative...four members will arrive around 9:30 pm...Stiker I&II outfitted with blasters for offense...but is not designed with any defenses...it was never meant as a combat vehicle...the Striker III is parked in the New York base hangar...the flight would take about 2 1/2 hours...I have the ability to fire all weapons without manual aid,though the Striker III does not include weapons..." There is a moment of silence before Imp is heard, "OK,Poundage,I have fed the Striker some coordinates.It will land in a construction site.In the site you will find lean-to with a ragged 'bed' of old blankets.Buried under the blankets is a box containing a necklace,a dangling 'A'.Take that to the man hole in the north east corner of the lot and find a man hole.Enter the man hole and travel north.After a short time you will e stopped by a young boy,show him the necklace and tell him 'Alice' sent you.He will take you where you need to go.This works out good,the badge you carry will carry some weight if any of the runaways saw the conference this morning and recognized me as a Guardian.Also we can test them in the Striker and not give away the base position.I have sent Omega to pick up Scar and am real curious about the info he may have on the recombinator." Poundage goes to the Striker medlab,opens the door and is greeted by a clear wall. "If it is at night can you help with some camo for the planes?" ,Poundage asks Wraith.Wraith replies, "I can help a little,I have the ability to control darkness,create it.But that will do little to help the planes,and won't help if no-one can see in the dark." Poundage then turns to Vengeance "We can go to our meeting/dinner now. Alcohol should be out of the question. Colorado is 3 hours behind us so we should leave pretty late. We really can't plan anything, as we don't know who will be there. It is a long trip. Perhaps everyone make a rendez-vous time in the park. We could always brief and plan on the way."
3:00-3:10 pm Poundage and Vengeance fly in the Striker,each lost in their personal thoughts.The Striker streaks eastward and soon slows to a hover.It lowers to the ground slowly before coming to rest.The base says, "...arrival at coordinates indicated..." Poundage walks out the entrance and glances around.He is in fact in a construction site,but one that seems to have been abandoned not long after initial construction began.He walks for just a few seconds when he notices a sheet of aluminum,leaning at an odd angle.As he investigates,he finds this must be the 'lean-to' Imp described.He looks about and sees a bundle of ragged blankets and begins to paw through them.He finds a small leather jewelry box.He opens it to find a very expensive looking necklace,a diamond encrusted 'A' dangling from a very fine gold chain.
3:10-3:20 pm Poundage takes the necklace and looks for the man hole. When finding the man hole he follows Imp's directions.Soon he hears a small voice say, "Don't go any further,hehehe..." Poundage replies, "I am Poundage." He holds up the necklace. "I am a friend of Alice's (pointing to the badge). I need to speak to anyone and everyone that is down here." The boy looks at him,then to the badge and the necklace, "Follow me..and nothing funny,man...you'll regret it...hehehe" He leads him down some dirty tunnels to an intersection of three large pipes.Here there is 14 teen age kids gathered about in what seems to be a small village.As they enter all the teens turn to look,some scattering into makeshift cardboard boxes.Only one remains in place and he actually takes a couple steps toward Poundage and his guide.The apparent leader looks Poundage is the eye as he speaks to the guide, "What are you doing,Mental?" The guide steps back while replying, "DON"T THREATEN ME!...um..he has a message...UUUUGGGG...from Imp,Alice...NNNNNGGG" The leader places a hand on the boy's shoulder, "OK...OK..thats fine...you did good..." Poundage says, "Alice has sent me here to take you all to the Guardian ship. There, you all will need to be tested for the Legacy virus. Also, the metas of Midville have come across some very good leads on a cure for the legacy virus. A bunch of us are heading to Colorado to hopefully find that cure. We expect to be met by great opposition. If any of you are metas, your assistance would be greatly appreciated. The one thing we really need is someone with scanning abilities. Someone who can see through dirt, steel, walls, mountains. The metas and humans of Midville need this cure. This virus is now evolved to infect non-metas as well. If no one trust me, I can give you my phone. Alice is on speed dial. Also, when around the others, use Imp instead of Alice. I am not sure exactly how many people know her true name." The leader of the group seems surprised a moment then speaks, "If Imp sent you,we can trust you.I am known as Probe and most of the group disappeared with this mornings news.This is all that is left.And only 3 of us have any abilities,but I am willing to do what is needed to cure this virus." Probe looks to the gathering teens,then leads the group through the tunnels to the surface.Poundage leads them to the Striker.As the teens start to be tested the base speaks, "...Poundage,I have the results of you test...the test are negative...Imp is working with your blood sample now..."
3:20-3:30 pm Vengeance tells Poundage of the meeting with Scar.Scar is heard through the base, "Poundage,we must meet up because my 'new friends' have their own agenda." Poundage replies to the gathered heroes at the base, "Imp, we are now beginning test on your friends. What kind of crack is Omega on? I don't care, I will be at the hospital until I see a wall crack. My #1 objective is to save people. If you guys leave before the wall starts to crumble, I'm staying behind." They hear Omega speak next, "Sorry guys--I was under the impression that Scar's visions represented what MIGHT be, not absolutely what WILL be. If we believe for certain that there will be some sort of catastrophe at the hospital then, of course, I feel we should do everything within our power to prevent it. And we are going to have to wait until we can gather the reinforcements anyway. But we should also consider that Colorado is a must when it comes to developing a cure. The longer we delay here--and I'm not saying we shouldn't--but the longer we delay here, the greater chances of more lives being lost. The Legacy Virus waits for no one. Then again, if we don't hang around then lives could be lost here in Midville. It's almost a no win situation, but after further consideration I have to agree with Poundage. We can't simply leave Midville unprotected. I suppose we could split up, but that would defeat the idea of us all going to Colorado en mass." Poundage continues, "Why don't we wait until it is the middle of the night there? They may be less prepared if it is 2 or 3 AM." Omega replies, "I agree. There's no outward sign that indicates they are aware we're onto them. The element of surprise could be a great tactical advantage for us." Poundage replies, "I also think we should take some infected blood. I am going to buy some tranquilizer guns and darts. We can fill the darts with infected blood. If we infect someone or something there, they may be forced to expose a cure if one exists. Scar, count me in." Vengeance then speaks to the base, "Base do you have any blood samples on file of any heroes with the regeneration power? Maybe if we have a sample of that blood we can do tests on that also.Did you contact Jill Yancy?" The base replies, "...the medical lab does not store blood samples...still unable to contact Dr.Yancy..." Poundage looks to Imp's friends. "Any of you that can help tonight, let me know and when we have a departure time, I will come and let you know." Evan looks at the group of teens then turns to Poundage, "Mental,Lieutenant and I wish to help.But I want to see Imp.Can we arrange that?"
3:30-3:40 pm Vengeance speaks through the base, "Look,Omega you can head to Colorado but it might be a long flight without the Striker.I plan on staying until the hospital encounter.I would rather stay and save lives than go to Colorado to look for a cure that may or may not be there.You are not a Guardian,yet you act like you think you are the leader of the Guardians.Well I do not follow your lead.You have your own group,lead them not us.We have our own leader and thank goodness it is not you.It would be different if you told us your ideas and thoughts but you bark out orders like you are the greatest hero of all time.Little news flash buddy,your not.Now if Omega has no other orders I have better things to do than to listen to you.Omega,I try to stay quiet,let things slide,but you don't quit with the cheesy lines and the barking of orders.Enough is enough." As the teens finishing the testing Poundage looks to Evan. "If it were up to me, I would take you to the base right now. I feel like I know you and can trust you like a son. As it stands, I cannot give you permission to see her. I am not a Guardian, therefore I cannot tell the base to let you in. I can only refer you to Vengeance, Lord Galen, Wraith or even Imp herself. Those are the current Guardians, only they can give you permission to enter." Evan has a puzzled look on his face, "But you have a badge,and below you said you were a Guardian." He looks to Vengeance, "Can you take me to see Imp?" The other teens stand and watch the conversation.Evan nods to them and they begin to walk out of the Striker,toward the man hole.Mental and Lieutenant remain with Evan.Poundage looks to Vengeance. "I am going to get some guns and darts. After that I will use the badge to teleport to the base. Then I will return the badge and prepare for a personal meeting. While I am away hopefully someone infected will give up some blood for the darts." He talks through the base, "Scar, I will be there shortly. I have to go to a personal meeting at five, but afterwards I can meet you wherever you want. Then we can keep an eye on the hospital. Imp, your friends wish to see you. I told them I cannot give them permission to enter the base. Also, if I pick up some guns and darts, will you give blood to use as a weapon?" Imp replies, "I will check with Galen and get back with you on them visiting me.I will give blood,but the darts will only be of use against enemies not wearin armor,or power suits." Poundage looks to Wraith, "How about you? Will you give blood?" Wraith replies, "Sure I will,anything to aid in a cure." Poundage speaks to Imp, "Imp, some of your friends wish to help this evening. If they are not going to be at the base, let me know and I will go let them know when it is time." Poundage bounds away looking for a hunting store for 5 guns and 20 darts.
3:40-3:50 pm Poundage leaps about the city,looking for a sporting good store.He uses his cel-phone to call the base and has it patch him to Scar, "Scar,contact me and we will meet at the hospital.I should be available after 6 pm.and it doesn't start getting dark till 8 pm,this should give us plenty of time." He finds a sporting good sstore and explains to the exited clerk what he is looking for,an air rifle to shoot darts.The clerk is anxious to please him and sells him a tranquilizer rifle and matching darts.
3:50-4:00 pm Poundage purchases a total of three rifles,thanks the clerk and walks out of the shop.Once outside he taps the badge ans says, "Enter" He teleports back to the base and places the badge in the charging bay.He goes to the medical office to find Omega,Scar,Probe,Mental and Lieutenant there,outside the medlab.Omega is speaking as Poundage enters. "Another troubling vision, Scar." Scar replies, "I will not be going to Colorado with you, therefore I have no input on the vision just described... you will loose at least the Striker. Good Luck.Now if we may go to the hospital?" Poundage steps to the clear wall and hands the darts through the box enclosure. "I hope these help." He turns to Scar, "I was just leaving Scar. Need a way out? After my meeting I will meet you somewhere." Probe speaks up, Take me also,I'll 'scan' the wall." He nods to Imp and follows Poundage and Scar to the hangar.Poundage places the three rifles into the Striker and grabs the other two heroes.He leaps out of the base and lands in the park.The group walks over to the hospital and begin to study the braced wall.Probe closes his eyes a moment then says, "I need to be lifted higher to 'scan' higher."
4:00-4:10 pm Poundage will take the two to the highest rooftop he can find adjacent to the hospital.Probe stands for moments,eyes closed.Poundage says, "I have to bolt around 4:45 to go to a meeting. After my meeting, where would you like to meet, Scar? Why not go to Colorado? We could use you. Don't worry , I will watch your back as much as possible. Hopefully Probe will make it alot easier." Probe opens his eyes slowly and looks at the other two heroes. "I have found a number of weak areas in the wall.I can point these out but I would rather not expose my 'secret' and my identity to the authorities.Being a mutant isn't the best thing right now." Poundage takes the two heroes and leaps to the ground.He hands Probe a card, "Anytime you need me, call this number. I also need to talk to you, Imp and the others. We'll do that after we take care of these other things."
4:10-4:20 pm Poundage turns to Probe, "I will let you know when we are leaving. Thanks for your help." Probe nods and points to a couple areas in the wall where he discovered weaknesses.He looks at Scar and starts to walk away, "We'll be in the sewers when your ready." Scar tells Poundage that he will stay here and help with the hospital evacuation. He proceeds to tell him about his vision of Colorado.Poundage turns to Scar, "I respect the fact that you do not want to go. If you have anymore visions, you know how to get a hold of me. If the hospital/construction company can do nothing about the wall, let me know. I will stay until it falls and try to help prevent it. I will help the hospital evacuate as well." Scar tells Poundage that he will be here upon his return and wishes him good luck.Both heroes go into the hospital to warn the proper people of the wall's structure.A security guard stops them,and listens to their warning.He tells them to stay put and leaves.After a few minutes he comes back with a elderly man and introduces him as the Supervisor of maintenance.
4:20-4:30 pm Poundage speaks with the supervisor,explaining what Scar has seen in his vision and what Probe found in his scan.Scar descibes his vision to the incredulous man then the two take him outside and point to the areas Probe pointed out.The supervisor pulls out a cel-phone and starts to relay some inspection orders.As he hangs up he thanks the two heroes and watches as maintenance men begin to scramble around the wall,inspecting the different areas that were pointed out.
4:30-4:40 pm Poundage asks the maintenance man if there is anything he can do for him.The supervisor answers that he thinks everything is under control.His men seem surprised to find some weak areas and the supervisor dials the construction company in charge of the rebuild.Poundage speaks to Scar, "Scar, I have to go for a meeting. When I am done, I shall return here and check on the progress. After they fix the wall, we should have Probe take another scan." Scar thanks Poundage for his help.Poundage leaps for home.
4:40-4:50 pm Poundage makes it home and changes into normal clothes.As Joe he leaves the apartment and begins to make his way to 'Foggies' office.
4:50-5:00 pm Joe arrives at Foggies office and is seated in a waiting room for a few minutes.Soon Foggy walks in,extends a hand, "Hello,I'm Franklin Nelson,but my friends call me Foggy.You must be Kip's partner."
5:00-5:10 pm Joe shakes Foggy's hand, "Yes, I am Joe Jackson. I will be responsible for the retainer. I am so excited to hear your presentation, but I guess we should wait for Kip. I think we may still have time to do all this over dinner, Octavians maybe. If Kip doesn't, I must extend a rain check. Any business ventures that you need to find a partner for, keep me in mind. I am interested in helping Midville grow. Eventually, maybe a minor or major sports team to call our arena home would be nice." Foggy smiles a big smile, "I'm glad to hear you have big plans also.For a mid-level city,Midville really has little in the way of entertainment options and I believe we are perfectly situated to fill that need.Pursuing a minor league hockey or basketball team is in the plan,as is concerts,circuses,possible WWE,and I am pushing right now to college basketball from Midville Universtity.They play in a small,on campus arena that holds about half what we can provide." As he is finishing Kip is shown in,a little short of breath. Foggy smiles in his direction, "Ah,just in time.I was just about to unveil my plan for the opening day festivities of Karlson Arena.Shall we go to dinner and I'll explain on the way."
5:10-5:20 pm Joe looks to Kip, "A busy day?" Kip nods at him, "Yes some food would be great.How about we go to Octavians? Shall we take a cab?" Joe smiles, "I am ready whenever you guys are." The three make thier way oustside and wait at the street for an available taxi.Foggy continues about his plans, "I was thinking a Grand Opening Gala.We hold a small festival outside the Arena during the day.Booths,rides,entertainers.Maybe a few attractions inside,during the day,let the people see the building,inside and out." A taxi pulls up and the three climb in,state their destination.Foggy continues, "Then that evening we have a Casino/Dance night.We set a side an area with gambling tables,all money raised going to charity of course.Another area as a Dinner/Dance area,live bands.We charge a entrance fee,where part of the money also going to charity.Then we run a publicity campaign,everywhere,touting the first weekend and the events we will hold.I'm still in the process of getting some talent,but would like to have a weekend of music,an Ozz Fest type thing,strtching over Friday,Saturday and Sunday.Any ideas,suggestions?" As he finishes they all here a beep that Joe and Kip realize is Kip's badge.
5:20-5:30 pm Kip hears the beep and thinks quickly, "Damn beeper!" He pulls out his cell phone and dials the base.Joe looks at Foggy,smiling, "That sounds good to me." Kip gets the base and says, "Hey,its me I am in a meeting right now is this an emergency or can I call you in an hour or 2?" He listens for a few moments before hanging up.Foggy looks at him a moment, "Your a busy man,eh? Well,we'll try to speed this up a bit.I have brought some paper work you two will need to sign.Then there is the matter of my retainer.All I'm asking is a grand up front,then we can set the remainder of my fees to come out of the monthly profit.If the Arena runs into a month where it doesn't make enough to cover my expenses we can either have you pay me directly,or carry the payment over to the next month.Now my expenses will only cover the legal aspects of or agreement.Any salaries to any workers or entertainers will be your responsibility." As he speaks,the taxi arrives at the restaurant.The three men get out of the cab,Foggy hands the driver some money,and the three walk into Octavian's.Inside Foggy smiles at the Maitre De and walks to a table.Kip and Joe take a seat and Foggy continues, "Now,for everyday running the Arena will need,ticket sellers,security and maintenance personnel.I have a local talent agency in the process of hiring the workers but will need $3000 to cover the hiring process.Also I have a contract with a local printing plant to print tickets and commercial products,banners etc.To cover their expenses for the first month I will need $16,000.All of this may not be needed,according to how many actual events we have.Now all I need form you guys is an order for some food,and some ideas as to any thing else I may have missed."
5:30-5:40 pm "Well let's get some drinks while I write this check. I'll have a Jack and Coke.",Joe says as he writes out a $25000 check and hands it to Foggy."I'll have a coke,please,hold the Jack." ,Kip says.Joe explains, "The leftover is for legal expenses. Just give us a 'running tab'. Where do I sign? In this agreement, we want a clause. If anything happens to either one of us, the other gets everything. We want this signature to count on it as well. We both do a lot of flying, and you never know." Kip nods, ""Yes that contract will be something that is needed.I'll have the ribeye medium well with a baked potato and a side salad." Joe looks at the waiter, "I'll have a filet mignon well done with baked potato and some jumbo coconut shrimp." Kip then looks to Foggy, "Your ideas are great.I just hope we make a little profit from this venture.What do you think Foggy? Does this have the potential to make me enough to live off of?" Foggy glances at the waiter, "I'll have my usual." As the waiter leaves Foggy chuckles, "Of course you'll be able to live off the profits.Of course,like any new business,the firstyear or so will see you needing to put most of the profits back into the venture,but I plan to see you both very rich men." As he finishes Joe's cel-phone beeps.He answers it to hear Scar's gravely voice.
5:40-5:50 pm Joe listens as Scar tells him that he has had another vision about the trip to Colorado.Joe tells him he will be there as soon as he can.The waiter delivers the groups food and silence falls as the three begin to eat.
5:50-6:00 pm Joe looks to Foggy, "I would like to be there for this carnival opening. When is it?" Between bites Foggy replies, "The Arena will be ready tomorrow,but would like a couple days to advertise,get the word out.I was thinking something along the lines of next Friday,Saturday and Sunday,but it's really up to you."
6:00-6:10 pm As the three slowly finish their meal Joe says, "Unless Kip thinks otherwise, I think that would be fine. I am leaving this arena in your hands." Kip nods, "That sounds great.Maybe we can get some tv and radio ads for the carnival and opening of the arena.Now I hate to rush you all but are the contracts ready? Maybe we can write in the conditions?" Foggy smiles at Joe, "I appreciate the confidence in me,I won't let you down.We'll start a media blitz tomorrow,or Sunday." He slides the contracts to the two men and as they sign,he continues. "I have recorded this conversation and can add the 'Will Clauses' and fax them to your offices at the arena for signing.I believe we should be finished here,and I think this is the beginning of a great partnership fella's."
6:10-6:20 pm Joe smiles, "I feel the same way. Just keep us in mind for future endeavors." The three men rise and shake hands. "I'll fax the remaining paperwork to your offices at the Arena.We'll blitz the media with advertisements and begin the opening Carnival Friday then." ,Foggy says as the three men walk out of the resturant.Foggy catches a cab as Kip walks toward Buchannan Park.
6:20-6:30 pm Joe runs to catch up to Kip.He looks about them then says, "Hey Kip. I need to go meet Scar at the hospital. You want to come see if there is anything we can do?"
6:30-6:40 pm Kip agrees and the two find a discreet palce to change into costume.They make their way to the hospital to find a large gathering of meta's.They recognize Omega,Vyra,Scar,Alloy and Maxi-Miss.
6:40-6:50 pm Scar continues his stoic look. He says to Omega, "Sometimes individuals are made to be on a team. Sometimes an individual can work better without a team.... I am that individual. Though I do appreciate the teamwork now and then I find it mostly smothering. Vyra is the 'light' of Midville, you should follow her lead." Omega glances to Vyra and says to Scar, "The light of Midville? I've always had a strong feeling that there was something very special about Vyra. I'll keep your advice in mind, Scar. And even if you don't join us 'officially', you can always count on us for support." Vyra nods to Poundage and Vengeance.Omega walks over and speaks to Poundage, "We were just trying to contact you, Poundage. I believe Scar wished to speak with you." Omega adds quietly, "He's just had a somewhat...disturbing...vision and I think it's rattled him a bit. Hell, it rattled all of us, I think. He can tell you more. I need to go with the others to check the test results." Scar steps back and gives a grimacing look to the new hero asking about the 'fates'. He says slowly but demanding, "You and I have yet to meet, therefore I will answer your questions when you've told who you are." Scar studies her for a moment.She glares at him and small tendrils of ice creep up her cheek,slowly starting to cover her hands. "I am Zephyr,Goddess of the winter storms.You would do well to watch your tongue.My...curiosity was to how you ride the strings of fate.I had assumed such an ability would belong to an Immortal,but I see it belongs to an insolent mortal." With that she turns and begins walking toward the hospital.Omega rejoins his team and says to Vyra, "Well, I guess this is it?" He gently places his hand on her back and says, "We'll get through this though...all of us...together." The group walks into the hospital,leaving Poundage,Vengeance and Scar alone.Poundage looks at Scar, "So Scar,what was your recent vision?"
6:50-7:00 pm Scar says in a annoyed tone under his breath, "Finally" and walks toward Poundage. He asks Vengeance to excuse them while he talks to Poundage.As the two walk away from VengeanceScar explains his latest visions to Poundage,the creature in the cave that apparently saw him. He then goes on to tell him that another Recombinator may exist in Midville and it may be Andromeda's next hit. He tells Poundage that he is the only one he trusts with this information. He says he will go to Colorado but it will leave Midville basically defenseless. "Your friend Omega is very annoying. He tries too hard. His weakness is that he needs to prove that he can make decisions, he is not a decision-maker. He is going to need to calm down. The enemies in the mountains are powerful and may very well be waiting for us."
7:00-7:10 pm "Scar, I agree with you on the whole Omega thing, major asshole. He once lead everyone to believe I was stepping on him. He stepped on me. Unlike him, I chose to bring it out in the open, in front of everyone. He backed down quick. Thank you for your trust. If you would rather stay back, that would be fine. As far as your visions go, I hope we can change all that." ,Poundage says.Vengeance looks at Poundage, "Hey Poundage,let's head toward the explosion site." Poundage turns to Scar, "Sorry to leave so soon, but Vengeance has something he wants to show me. As usual, you know how to contact me." Poundage turns back to Vengeance, "Ready?" Poundage grabs Vengeance and leaps away.A couple of bounds later they are standing at the park.Vengeance takes Poundage to the doorway he found.They slowly push the door open to find a long dark hallway.
7:10-7:20 pm Poundage and Scar slowly creep down the hallway,ready for anything.They go about 70 feet before the hallway opens on an oddly shaped room about 40 feet by 50 feet.As they look around the room they find the north wall is covered by some old computer equipment and there seems to be some sort of tunnel leading up from a large opening in the ceiling of the northeast corner.In the south and southwest are three doors leading to three small bedrooms.Poundage looks at Vengeance, "So,this is a base, what do you do about the Guardians? The Striker IS pretty nice."
7:20-7:30 pm Vengeance replies, "Well,I might just have to leave the Guardians.I have been thinking about it for a while.I don't think I fit in with the way they work anymore.Maybe this was some kind of sign." Vengeance turns and tries to get the computer on,to checkout the technology. Poundage watches him, "Leave the Guardians? We could sink some cash in this base and make it pretty good." His phone beeps and he answers it.Scar tells him of his latest vision.Scar gives a descriptive characterization of the General and the Doctor. He repeats the doctor's words. "Now is Armageddon,General.Time for the world to meet the Grim Reaper..." Scar tells Poundage to be aware of his surroundings, there are 4 distinctive personas out there in the mountains, waiting for him.Poundage replies, "The Grim Reaper huh? That sounds like it might be a last ditch effort. That is at least a good sign. Again, I thank you for your trust and friendship. Remember, if ever you join a team, it better be mine. I may even know someone with a base. So if you are ever interested let me know." Poundage hangs up and tells Vengeance of the vision. "Listen, when we all sit down to plan, I want to be part of a small ground group. That ground group will focus on a stealth mission into the mountain to try and find these leaders or a cure. Remember, most armies lie down without leadership. With Probe's abilities and Scar's visions, we may be able to thwart any last ditch effort to get away or kill us." Vengeance just grunts as the computer before him powers up,blips a couple of times,then winks off.
7:30-7:40 pm Vengeance replies, "A small group for that purpose will be good. I would like to be in that group as well.As long as I am not with Omega's group.I hope they do not get ahead of themselves and they wait for the X-Men before they start to plan." Vengeance then heads towards the tunnel leading to the ceiling. "I am going to check out this tunnel to the ceiling.Maybe you can get that computer running while I check this out." Poundage sits to tinker with the computer,as Vengeance floats up the shaft.The computer blinks in and out,then sits silent.Poundage looks around the base looking for any clue that might tell him what the base lies under.The room is empty,except the antiquated computer equipment,and he remains unsure what may be above the base.
7:40-7:50 pm Poundage begins to take the computer panel off.He looks inside and finds the inside very dusty.Most of the wires are corroded and he spots a few that have actually broken or have been chewed through.
7:50-8:00 pm Poundage begins to grab wires and tries to patch them together.He isn't sure what wire goes where but tries his best.The computer makes a couple of beeps,but remains dark.As he is tinkering under the console his cel-phone beeps.He answers it to hear the base, "...Lord Galen would like to know if you would want to lead the covert team to assault the mountain...and if so who would you like to go with you..."
8:00-8:10 pm As Vengeance floats down the shaft and back into the main room,Poundage listens on his phone as the base continues, "...message from Omega...we have additional metas here which can be assigned to his team should he wish to utilize them. Suggestions are Mentor for silent, telepathic communication; Specter for stealth and power and perhaps a meta with some type of electrical abilities if we have one available. However, please stress that team selection is entirely up to him and these are only suggestions..." Poundage replies, "Tell Lord Galen that Vengeance and I will be at the base very shortly. We will talk about it then."
8:10-8:20 pm Poundage replies through the base, "Omega, this is Poundage. Vengeance and I will be there in a second."He turns to Vengeance, "Come on man, they aren't going to leave me alone until I show up." The two heroes dash down the corridor,leaving the small base behind.
8:20-8:30 pm The two heroes make their way back through the pouring rain.When they make it back to the base they both head toward the medical office.Once there they are confronted by a group of costumed metas,most of whom they do not recognize.
8:30-8:40 pm Lord Galen looks at Poundage and Vengeance, "Thanks for coming. Its so nice to see you. So, Poundage, What about leading the covert op? You up for it?" Vengeance walks toward the medlab and is stopped by the clear wall. "...I can not allow you to enter the med lab...it is under quarantine..." Vengeance replies, "I need to rest up before we leave." Khaydra steps up behind him and fixes Amazin' Grace with a look. "Well, maybe his dream is important to this mission and could help, but just a thought," ,he says. Amazin' Grace looks at Khaydra and her voice softens, "So the silent one speaks.Your correct,but I assumed if it had any bearing to the mission he would have said so." Poundage looks over the group. "Listen, all I need is Probe and maybe a couple others. One, like someone else said, for silent communication and maybe another strong man to help with a quick escape if needed. At the same time, I don't want anyone who can't take a few good hits. With Probes abilities, I am hoping to gain access to the mountain and possibly find info on a cure. We could also track down the leaders and take them. If we can do that, The army they have may lay down. I don't mean to sound like I am trying to take over the operation or build myself to be a badass. I just know that if we need to make a quick escape, I am strong enough to move large sections of the mountain and maybe save some lives. Also, every bit of my skin is covered. Therefore, I should be able to carry anyone with the virus. Right base?" It takes a moment before the base replies, "...I am not completely sure how the virus spreads...skin to skin contact does not seem the only way it speads..." Poundage is silent a moment,gathering his thoughts. Omega looks to Poundage and says, "I think you're definitely on the right track, Poundage. I was the one who suggested the telepath on your team. Mentor--a new member of the Protectors--could be assigned to your team if you wish. Also, I agree that the covert team should be small. Specter might add a bit of muscle to your team, and my other thought was to have someone with lightning control abilities that could short out the survelence equipment and defensive weapons if needed. Fugitive has this ability and also has the power to move very fast, like Afterburn. Of course, it is your team and I agree with Lord Galen the final selections should be yours. Those are just some of my suggestions." Poundage continues, "As far as the ground attack goes, I think we should try to lure their forces away from the mountain to avoid the covert team being trapped between two enemy forces. Any input that might help would be greatly appreciated. As far as who goes with me, It doesn't matter as long as they can handle themselves and can take some shots. I am honored to be asked if I wanted to do it this way. This was my plan all along." Omega nods, "I think you're probably right about the ground assault team too--we need to detract as much attention from the covert team as possible." The two are interrupted by Reaper, "So which group, if any, am I going with?" Omega looks at Reaper and says, "Hey bud, I never did get an answer to my earlier invitation--whether or not you would like to join the Protector's team officially--but whether you do or not, you're welcome to come with us and fight by our side. Since you can fly, you should probably be part of the aerial team that Lord Galen suggested--so you'll be with my group regardless. I think the fliers main job will be to back up the ground team and provide them with cover and support where needed. We should also be prepared to cover the covert teams withdrawal if they are discovered. Once the attack team breakdowns are finalized perhaps we can plan a bit more."
8:40-8:50 pm Reaper replies to Omega, "Ok, thanks. As for joining permanently, I still don't know. I'm giving it some serious thought. As for the dream, I really doubt it's important. Although, if it WAS a memory, it had something to do with someone...making someone better. Almost sounds like they're talking about the virus. Would you mind updating me on what we know so far?" Lord Galen walks over and claps Poundage on the shoulder. "I am glad you accept the leadership. I see good in you. Once we find out how many entrances and exits tere are you can let us know which way you wish to go in. We can then fake an attack on the opposite side. I don't think we need team breakdowns. Anyone with flight ability will go with the aerial team, all others on the ground. Poundage pick your team." "I'll go on the least important ground force, so I can get a feel for what this is going to be like." Khaydra says to the group. Vengeance looks around and sees a group of unfamiliar heroes. "Hey guys,why don't we wait until the X-Men get here before we get too detailed on the plans.We don't know what we are working with yet.Maybe get some ideas from their team as well." Omega nods and says, "Perhaps we SHOULD wait on the X-Men to arrive and also on the report from the recon team, before we make more definitive plans. I know it's hard just sitting around here and waiting--and I think the plan we have so far is a good one--but we should be sure that we have as much info as possible before deciding upon a final course of action." Poundage listens then replies, "I surprisingly agree with Omega. Before I can pick a team, I need to know all the options available. When the X-men get here, I can see who all is going and make my decision then. As far as the fliers, we must remember that they have surface to air missiles and mini-jets. To any and all fliers, BE CAREFUL. I don't want this to end up a rescue mission." The woman in brown,a stylized M on her chest steps forward and everyone gathered hears a soft voice in their head, [I am Mentor.I'm the telepath Omega spoke of.I would be honored to assist this covert team you will leading Poundage] A man in orange and green,an 'S' at his throat,speaks next, "I call myself Specter,you know like a ghost.I think my abilities are very well suited for the covert team.I can go through anything,well almost.I found force fields are a bit of a problem.Also I seem to be able to take some pounding,that is IF anything can hit me." He shows a large smile at the last statement.Omega asks the base, "How much longer before these X-Men arrive, or until we get the report from the recon team?" The mechanical voice replies, "...arrival of X-Men unknown...the recon team should be on target approximately 9:30 pm..." Poundage seems to debate with himself for a moment then says, "When the X-men get here, give me a call and I will be back." He strides out of the medical office,purposefully.He makes his way to the hangar and leaps out of the bridge,headed for the hospital.
8:50-9:00 pm Poundage spots Scar almost immediately.There seems to be an unknown flaming meta hovering near him.Poundage lands a few feet away from the two.then stands up right.
9:00-9:10 pm Poundage looks at Scar then to the other meta, "Scar, what's up? Need a hand or is this guy your friend." The meta quickly replies, "No I'm not his enemy. So your name is Scar?" Poundage shakes his head, "Just what we need, another flamer." The meta snaps back, "I am not just another flame.I can port and would like to get my eagle,but there is no time. I am more than just what you see."
9:10-9:20 pm The rain begins to fall harder again,drenching the three heroes.Poundage says, "Scar, I just wanted to let you know that I will contact you as soon as we return to Midville." Looking at the other meta,Poundage hands him a card. "My name is Poundage, sworn protector of Midville. I don't care what your abilities are. Just leave my buddy here alone. Start shit with him, you start shit with me. Anyway, if you are ever in need give me a call. I pride myself on helping everyone, even you flamers." Scar replies, "He is looking for Omega, though I do not know as to why yet. In any event, I am glad to see you Poundage. I have yet had another vision, a disturbing one, and have reconsidered the trip to Colorado. I will join the mission if you still have room." As he finishes speaking Scar seems to gaze into the distance.Phoenix looks at the two metas and replies, "If you are going then may I tag along,maybe? If there is a mission and this Gaurdian base is where all the heroes are,maybe I should meet them also. I want to find anyone who can help me find a certain man.The search has led me here to Midville and as long as I am here I might as well help as much as I can. You need a lift you said Scar? I will gladly port you but I'm not near strong enuough to lift you." Poundage looks at Scar questioningly and replies to Phoenix, "You are welcome to come along, but I cannot give you permission to enter the Guardian base. I am not a Guardian. There is a number you can call to contact the base. Lord Galen is their leader. Now if you could please let Scar and myself have some space to chat?" Poundage looks at Scar who stares into the distance,unblinking.After a few moments Scar shakes his head slightly and moans,before he looks around him slowly.
9:20-9:30 pm The rain steams around Phoenix but continues to pelt the other two heroes.Phoenix flies higher into the sky,looks around and mumbles to himself.Below Poundage speaks with Scar. "Scar, I will let you know that I am leading a covert team that will go straight into the heart of the mountain. You of course are welcome to join this team. I understand you have weakness detection? If you feel you are not strong enough, you can concur with the others on where you should be. If need be, I can strap you to my back so as to keep an eye on you. The X-men will be arriving soon, I was goin' to go to the park and wait for them. When they open the bridge, I can jump us in."
9:30-9:40 pm Scar says, "Yes count me in. An innocent boy needs our help inside the mountain. He will be our greatest adversary ever." Poundage grabs Scar and replies, "Ok, but watch your back inside the mountain. I think the team will be 5. Any input you have will be appreciated. What do you think of this. Besides you and myself, I was thinking one for telepathy to communicate silently. One for scanning. As you know Probe is an excellent scanner. Probably one other kind of like me. We will be the quick escape option. If we get into too much trouble in there look out. I will be tearing a hole in the mountain to let us out quickly. I respect and honor your decision. Hopefully we all come back with a cure or some information leading to one and every hero intact." As he finishes speaking four meta's land lightly in the park nearby.The scan the area then a woman in green and gold speaks to the three heroes. "I am Rogue of the X-Men,are you the Guardians?"
9:40-9:50 pm Scar stands silent,seeming to concentrate.Poundage replies, "No we are not Guardians. We were waiting for you guys to show so we can go in at the same time. I am Poundage and this is my friend Scar. I will be leading a covert team into the mountain as the attack on the mountain goes on. I am looking for a few people to be on this team, but we can discuss that inside." The woman with red hair steps forward, "I am Marvel Girl.It is good that some planning has been started.You have met Rogue,my other team mates here are Colossus and Psylocke.We are eager to help in any way we can." Phoenix floats down, "Not to eaves drop,Poundage,but I will be coming too. I will just take the wounded from battle. Please can we go now? You are the ones they call the X-Men? Do you have any means of transportation to get us to the base much quicker?" Marvel Girl frowns slightly, "No,unfortunately we don't.The other X-Men were busy with the Blackbird.We will be relying on the Guardians to supply transport,or using personal powers to fly there.Though that would exhaust our fliers..."Meanwhile Poundage is on his phone talking to the base.He explains that the X-men, Scar, and himself are waiting outside. Could they please open the bridge.Within seconds the surface of the lake ripples slightly as the bridge breaks the surface.The gathered group make their way inside,Rogue carrying the X-Men,Poundage carrying Scar and Phoenix flies himself.They land in the hangar of the base,near the Striker.
9:50-10:00 pm As Poundage lands, he gives Phoenix a look of disgust and calls out to the base. "Base, I have a message for Lord Galen. Galen, I did not invite this Phoenix character in, he invited himself. I explained to him he needed to call ahead for permission, obviously he doesn't take direction well. He seems to have spoken to someone who filled him in an awful lot about the upcoming trip. He has also already designated himself as 'medic'. I just wanted to let you know that I am not taking any freedoms with your base. I asked for the bridge to be opened for Scar, The X-Men, and myself." Poundage looks back to Phoenix.Phoenix steps away from Poundage and then looks up at the opening in the lake as the bridge slowly close and retracts. " I don't want to intrude but I couldn't resist." He grins and starts to wander the hangar,his head swinging from side to side looking at everything. "I have never seen something like this. Well, I can't explain myself.If we are going right now I need some rest." Poundage locks him with his gaze, "You know there are ways of getting people to like you that are much easier than eaves dropping and following. Next time you use me such as today, you won't like the repercussions. I will let you slide today because we need all the help we can get." He starts to look at the other heroes,one by one. "Sorry about that, I'm just not the one to hold back. We have a very strange breed of super heroes here in Midville." Psylocke flips her long black hair and strides past Poundage, "...I like his style..." The clank of steps on metal echoes in the hangar as Omega walks down the Striker entry ramp into the Hangar.
10:00-10:10 pm Poundage asks the base, "Where should we all meet to discuss this with the scanning team?" The base replies, "...I would suggest the strategy session take place aboard the Striker I...the discussion could take place during the 50 minute flight to Colorado...X-Men,Lord Galen welcomes you and will be with you as soon as he finishes with his braodcast...the one known as Phoenix,stay where you are..do not move..." Phoenix shrugs his shoulders, "I have been eager to meet some of the other heroes but Poundage kind of butted me out of the conversation. Scar told me a lot about it though. I would like to continue the conversation but the sooner we get going,the sooner I can rest and get my energy back. Can make this quick?" Scar shakes his head, "I have serious problems with entering the Striker due to my vision. Is anyone flying solo and can I hitch ride with you?" Psylocke looks at Scar and wrinkles her nose, "I think we all are riding this craft.Flying would tire the flier and make them useless at the mountain." Omega steps forward and introduces himself, "I'm Omega--the meta who initially contacted you. We've learned a great deal since then and have been attempting to formulate a plan, but decided it would be best to wait until you guys arrived so we could all compare notes. But the more we learn, the scarier this thing gets. The Legacy Virus is man-made and was initially designed as a weapon against mutants--now, for reasons still unknown to us--it's evolved so that it affects all humanoid life. We have seen it infect mutants, metas, non-metas...even aliens. We've tracked it to a group called the 'Friends of Humanity' who have some sort of mountain base in Colorado. Poundage and Scar may have already briefed you on all this...Scar is also pre-cognative and has had some very...disturbing visions..." A blush rises on Phoenix's face. " So your Omega? I came to Midville to find you. But my problems are petty right now. Scar has informed me of most of this...Oh and Poundage I didn't come here to search for you.It was Omega so if you you would let off the comments that would make things go a lot smoother." His flame flares slightly and Phoenix grins.The sound of footsteps ring from the hall,followed by the entrance of Vengeance.
10:10-10:20 pm Scar turns to Phoenix and says, "I told you nothing, what you know comes from what I've told Poundage. You just happened to be in the listening area. So if you consider learning that I've changed my mind and decided to go to Colorado to be the biggest news flash of the day then I guess that I made your day. You and I are not getting off on the right foot. I suggest you change your personality a bit." Phoenix takes a step forward and stares at the speaker on the wall, "Yea,I can tell some of you don't want me here." Poundage chuckles and looks to Phoenix. "Flare away flamer. If you didn't come looking for me, why did you follow me and eaves drop on my conversations. You told me you were looking for the Guardians. Make up your mind. I also told you that there were numbers you could call. I guess you either don't know what a phone is or you have a fixation with Scar or myself." Poundage looks to the group. "Sorry everyone. I guess everyone knows I am the a-hole hero of Midville. It's just a shame so many people like me. I'm ready whenever everyone else is." Phoenix looks around at the gathered heroes, "Why am I on trial?" He looks over to Vengeance, "And may I ask who you are? Without being jumped on or attacked by words? But the saying is curiosity killed the cat." Vengeance glances at the new meta then back at the remainder of the group, "Lets go to Colorado already.We can meet and greet on the way." He strides across the hangar and up the ramp of the Striker.Omega then turns to Psycloche and says, "I believe holding the briefing on the Striker is a good idea. We should probably get underway soon. The basic plan we had is for Poundage to lead a covert team into the base and attempt to retrieve an anditdote for the virus--or at least the information to create such and anditdote--Lord Galen will lead a ground assault team as a diversion and I'll lead an aerial team to cover from the sky. However, we're waiting on additional information now from our recon team--information from them might change things, depending on what they find out there." Scar turns to the group and says, "My visions have been disturbing to say the least. First the Striker goes down, then there are 'creations' in the mountain. Not only will we be fighting armed forces but 2 or 3 monstrosities as well. One can see me in the vision and has tried to attack me there." Rogue pats Colossus on the shoulder, "Not to worry...um...Scar...me and Colossus here can handle a monstrosity or two...and if you see the future,perhaps we can change the Striker being shot down." Omega steps up to Phoenix and extends his hand. "I'm Omega, Phoenix. You said you came looking for me? Believe me, right now we could use all the help we can get. Why don't you tell me a little about yourself and your powers?"
10:20-10:30 pm "I thought we were over this hole jump on Phoenix thing but I guess not. Omega I have searched for you since I got here because I saw you in a news paper and decided to find you. But like I said this is not important now. You have much bigger troubles then I do. My powers are very simple and would assist more in the medic range. I can port but not very far but this would get the injured away from the enemy faster and I have a trusty eagle though he is not coming,time restraints will not allow me to go get him. I have this flame as you can see and thats about it. But we can talk for about 20 minutes into the flight then I have to get some rest to regain my energy." ,Phoenix says quickly.Omega nods to Phoenix, "You might be best for the aerial team, Phoenix--you can take care of any fliers who are knocked out of the sky." The base breaks the silence in a loud voice, "...All heroes going to the mountain meet Lord Galen in the hangar...We are preparing to leave....those unfamiliar with the layout of the base just follow the doors as they open for you..." The group from the dining room stumble into the hangar.Right behind them through the door is the group from the medlab,staying off to one side.Right on their heels strides Lord Galen,marching right to the ramp before turning to face the gathered group.Omega asks Poundage, "Do you have everyone you need in your group?" Poundage looks over the heroes. "For my team I would like to take Probe for his scanning, Mentor for her telepathy, Spector for the whole ghost thing, and Scar because he can short out the electricity. Scar also has a weakness detection. This could help against any monsters. I would also like to take an X-men member? One of the strong ones perhaps. Then we may also get some advice if needed. Any advice or volunteers? Not too many." Omega turns to Galen,"Lord Galen, if it's acceptable to you, we can include Rogue and Phoenix in the aerial team. Are we still going with the three-pronged attack approach? Anyone have any tactical suggestions to offer up?" The large silver man smiles at Rogue, "Dat means I'm going into the mountain..." He slams a metal fist into his palm. "..for Katyen..." ,he says as he follows Poundage into the Striker.
10:30-10:40 pm Poundage turns to Colossus, "I am Poundage, good to meet you. I want you to know that anytime you have a suggestion, let me know. There is no leader on this team. We are all going in for the same reason." The big man steps further into the main compartment. "..some more personal den oders..." ,he mumbles as he looks around the spacious room.The two men hear the voices outside the ship grow louder and Lord Galen leads the other heroes onboard.Once all are aboard the ramp retracts and the large outer door swings silently shut.There is a small,building whine as Reaper draws his sword and begins to examine it. "...preparing for take-off...everyone find a seat...those infected meta's should go to the rear of the craft,there is a medlab...there are three beds and two chairs...", the base says as the heroes feel a slight shutter in the Striker I.There is a moment of milling around as the infected group goes to the medalb and the remaining heroes try to find a seat.There are only seven seats in the main compartment so only half the remaining group find a seat.The others grab onto chairs and counters.The Striker rises quickly,everyone feeling that elevator feeling.Accelerating slowly,the Striker soars westward over the city.Omega then turns to Rogue and says, "Glad to have you on my team. Is that a Southern accent? I'm from down that way myself." She smiles, "Wha yes...it is...I just so happen to be a southern belle..." Omega then addresses Lord Galen, "Galen, we need a way to get the covert team onto the ground...well, covertly...I suppose we could land the Striker some distance away and let them go in on foot...then we could fly closer in and provide the diversionary attack...the trick will be avoiding whatever sensory devices they have out there...is there any way we could jam that stuff?" The mechanical voice of the base replies, "...ETA 10:30 pm local time,11:30 pm Midville time...I had anticipated meeting the Striker II outside of the mountains detection bubble...Poundage's team is composed of six members,we transfer those to the Striker two...the Striker II flies the covert team in AFTER Lord Galen's ground assault attacks from a separate direction..." Everyone turns to face Rogue as she speaks, "Actually hon,I agree with that except Ah think tha ahr Unit should escort tha covert team in as tha ground unit attacks.Once the escort is finished we return for ahr cover on tha ground attack.Do ya know anything about about tha ahr defense? What can Ah expect?" Poundage quietly gathers his team close to him as he listens.The remaining meta's begin to shuffle toward their group leaders.Poundage looks at his group,the covert team, as he talks. "When we figure out where we are going in, I think Scar should try to short out some electric, if it is on. Spector should scout ahead and peek through doors to see if there is anything in rooms we pass. Everyone will speak through Mentor. Try to be as quiet as possible. Some of you know Probe. He is already there and probably has a good idea where we need to go. Collosus and myself will provide brute strength, muscle, and a quick escape. Depending on Collosus's weight, I will be able to pick everyone up and jump us away from the mountain as quick as possible. Does that sound good?" Colossus gives Poundage a hard look, "Is dat a crack about my weight?" In a split second the armored giant is gone,replaced with a small skinny teenager. "Is dat better?"
10:40-10:50 pm Poundage chuckles. "At least somebody here still has a sense of humor." Galen looks to Poundage, "What do you think Poundage? do you think you will need the air escort. I think that kind of gives away the fact your coming." Omega nods in agreement with Lord Galen, "Having an aerial escort might compromise your position...however, if you are detected then having some air cover--as Rogue suggests--might also be a good thing, especially if they come at us with aircraft or other flying metas. Does anyone on the aerial team have electrical powers? Whichever group we go along with, the other team will be sacrificing air support--at least temporarily." Poundage turns to Lord Galen. "Depending on how far away we are, we may be able to jump our way in. Probe and Imp would be best for that question. I will be going in however Probe suggest." Phoenix stumbles and falls at Omega's feet. "Uggg. Could we slow this thing down? I think I'm gonna throw up." ,he mumbles as he gets to his feet. "Well I don't know much about this but I think that Poundage and the Big Tin man can hold there own if under attack. But if there going to jump towards this mountain,they might reveal themselves and they might need some of us to direct there attention away." As if on cue,Imp is heard through the ship, "Glad to see you guys on the way...I am sending a basic map now.Scans show four buildings,two industrial warehouse size higher up the mountain and two smaller ones lower on the mountain.All four seem to be built over some sort of tunnels but we can't get close enough for any kind of detail.The top of the mountain seems to be covered with large rock outcroppings,huge cliffs that look inaccessable except by the air.Our scans show very little there and i believe this is where the radar and jamming equipment is buried.Now,as for the discussion on plans,I have to agree with Rogue.When the covert team go is the base will be on alert.We won't be able to take out the detection equipment in the mountain,so the team will be noticed.If the ground unit attacks from one side,and the air unit escorts the covert team in,then flies to meet the ground unit,perhaps the covert team will be 'lost' in the action.Worst case scenario is the enemy has to concentrate his forces to defend the air and ground attack to muster enough force to also repel the covert team." The next voice heard is Probe's, "I am flattered by your confidence in me Poundage,but I have been unable to get close enough to do any good 'scanning'.Right now your guess as to where to hit is as good as mine." Phoenix steadies himself again as the ship buffets slightly.Omega looks to Phoenix and says, "Um...you might want to buckle yourself into one of the seats if you're feeling wobbly. Now--let's see, I know some fliers may be going with the covert team--all fliers going with the aerial group, please show hands." The group of meta's look from one to the other,unsure.The base says, ...team breakdowns are thus...covert team,Poundage,Colossus,Probe,Scar,Specter and Mentor...Aerial team,Omega,Wraith,Phoenix,Rogue,Reaper and Vyra...ground unit,Lord Galen,Maxi-Miss,Amazin' Grace,Zephyr,Firewall,Marvel Girl,Psylocke and Khaydra..." Scar steps over to Poundage and says, "Remember there are 2 or 3 monstrosities down there. The greatest of these is disguised as an adolescent boy. I see him strapped to a table, alone. When you find him he will convert to a beast and may very well change the complexion of our mission. The leader of this group is a general-type militant coward, taking him out is a necessity." As he finishes a panel in the front of the cabin slides back,revealing a video panel.Two maps are displayed there as the base speaks, "...I have an incoming transmission...basic maps now being displayed..."
10:50-11:00 pm Lord Galen studies the map. "Perhaps we could use one Striker as a decoy as well as fire on one of the lower buildings while the ground team and aerial team attack the other lower building. Maybe that would divert the enemy from the upper warehouse type buildings and Poundage could jump his team up to the upper buildings. We could have the striker fire from a distance while the base continuously flies evasive maneuvers,just to attract attention. What do you think?" Omega speaks up, "For what it's worth, I believe we should go with the plan that the base, Imp and Rogue have recommended...and perhaps at least some of the aerial team should provide a back up for the group Poundage is leading...Scar's visions...trouble me." Psylocke looks from one to the other then replies, "Well,I like the idea of the ship's taking an offensive part.But I think sending the covert team in without the air support could doom the mission,when we are depending on them getting in.What if they go in and meet resistance?With air support,the covert team good continue moving in,while their air support keeps the enemy busy." She pauses and studies the map, "And why send the covert team to the 'larger' building? I would think the larger buildings would house larger defense forces." Omega turns to Poundage, "The Omega Force also spoke of this general...his name is Stern. There's also a Dr. Truman...they are the two key figures in all of this. The Omega Force told me that 'the spread of the virus corrupts the planet,it's source is three fold.' It instructed me to 'find the leader of men,the healer who hates and the reluctant one' and said that 'each has a key to the solution,though the leader believes he holds the only key.' I believe Stern is the leader of men and Truman is the healer who hates. Obviously, the key to the cure rests with them. These men are the modern equivalents of Dr. Frankenstein--God only knows what monstrosities we will be facing down there and I fear that at least one of Scar's visions may be that of none other than 'Mutant X', the one who is able to alter his genetic structure--the mutant they used to modify the Legacy Virus into its current, most deadly form. If he is able to alter his genetic struture then...he can probably turn himself into anyone or anything imaginable..." There comes a gasp and everyone turns to see Rogue,eyes wide. "Ah'm sorry.Just the magnitude of a mutant that can alter his genetic structure combined with a brilliant genetic scientist.This mutant could...well,BE anything...have ANY abilities...ALTER his abilities to match his opponent.This is not looking good...." The room goes silent,each hero lost in their own thoughts of the coming battle.From the back,buckled into one of the seats Phoenix breaks the silence, "Ok,so I'm in Omegas team? I'm not complaining,he's the only one here not giving me a hard time."
11:00-11:10 pm Replying to Rouge, Omega says, "Exactly. This foe will be a formidable one to say the least." She looks about the gathered heroes,not sure the immensity of the situation.Poundage looks around. "I don't care what is down there. I have complete confidence in my team and everyone out here. If we run into this creature, Colossus and myself can try to keep it busy while the others move on." Poundage looks to Colossus. "Right big guy?" Colossus grins and flexes his non-existant muscles. Lord Galen turns to Omega, "Alright,Omega. I think everyone now agrees the covert team needs an air escort. You will have to pick a small team for that. As far as the ground team, we need to decide where to focus our attack. Base, any suggestions. Anyone for that matter." Omega nods to Galen, "But we shouldn't discount your idea of using the Striker as an offensive weapon. It's a good idea, and it might be our best bet against any type of large armament they have like tanks or planes. Hmmmm...maybe the entire aerial team could escort the covert team in and then, at that point we could split--with half returning to assist the ground force--and half backing up the covert team?" He seems to think for a moment then adds, "Whatever plan you decide to finalize, we'll follow it--we just all need to be on the same page when we do get out there. Preparation and team-work are our best advantages right now--the men we're up against are extremely selfish and self-motivated. I'm guessing they have no concept of cooperation. That's how we'll beat them." As the group studies the map the base comments, "...I have been trying to determine that...it seems that such a base would have secret escape tunnels...we have been unable to detect any as the Striker II can not get close enough for a complete scan of the mountain...using the military designs of NORAD for comparison,I have deduced that the two lower buildings probably house supply entrances and troop areas...the two higher buildings can only hold the air portion of the defenses.,aircraft and missile launchers...though there is a possibility that those buildings may hold the research and command quarters...I think the covert team should hit one of the lower buildings to lessen the impact the air portion of the defenses has on their ranks...the ground unit can only reach the lower buildings unless they fly in by Striker...therefore the covert team should hit one of the lower buildings while the ground unit hits the other...perhaps the air unit concentrates on air support but has the option to hit one of the higher buildings if their forces allow...if I may add,the rock outcroppings in the rear of the mountain are suspicious...those do not form normal in this geography..."
11:10-11:20 pm Lord Galen looks at the map, "I agree with the base. We should hit both lower buildings. But I think we need part of the air team with the covert team until they get inside. If we could take out some of the missile defenses perhaps we could get a Setriker close enough to scan thos rock outcroppings and get the results on the Guardian badges.I still think we need the Strikers for their offensive weapons as well." Omega studies the maps. "Those rear outcroppings may house some type of hangar bays...some of their air support might come from there...or they could be escape tunnels, I suppose." The base interrupts, "...once the attack begins moving the one of the Strikers to the outcroppings for further study is a possiblity...the matter of surprise would be moot and,if those outcroppings are weapons or hangars,the Striker could use it's weapons on the installations while also scanning them further..." Omega addresses the X-Men, first to Rogue he asks, "Rogue--I caught on earlier that you're a flier, what are your other abilities?" She replies, "Well sugah,Ah am just about indestructible,really really strong and Ah can absorb other meta's abilities,leaving them unconscious." Omega nods and continues, "Obviously, the big guy here can turn into a steel giant not unlike our former ally Alloy--but I don't think I caught the other abilities for the team--for Psycloke and um..." Omega looks to Marvel Girl, "I don't know that I caught your name earlier, Ms...? It's been quite a day so I apologize if I'm forgetting--and I don't mean to be intrusive, I just thought knowing more about the abilities of your team members might help in planning the attack." Marvel Girl steps forward with a sheepish grin, "I'm called Marvel Girl...corny I know...I am a telekinetic." The beautiful Psylocke strides forward and her left hand flares with pink energy that resembles a dagger. "I am a latent telepath,though right now I do not control this ability.I have a my psychic knife,which renders most unconscious.Also I am well trained in the martial arts." Omega then turns back to Galen and asks, "Galen, you were talking about the Striker--is it equipped with missles or other types of long-ranged weapons? Perhaps we could fly in fast and take out those first two buildings? I know that might cause extensive damage and even result in people getting killed down there--I'm against metas taking lives as much as the next person, but considering the circumstances we face we might have to alter our thinking. In my mind, we're at war here--and we might have to alter our thinking a bit--the stakes are far too high to risk failure...we're talking about the possible extinction of the human race--and the more I think about it--we should have all kinds of conventional military back-up out here--the fact that we don't...I wonder if Mentor is right? Maybe this is even more sinister than we believe...if such a thing is possible..." The base answers before Galen can, "...both Strikers are equipped with two plasma cannons but no missiles...the connections between General Stern and others in the military are hard to trace,but the amount of money this movement has been able to raise is alarming...as for military back-up,the facts we have uncovered don't seem to be concrete enough to convince the military to act...their comments in recent news has them very busy at many points in the United States and abroad,just trying to keep the peace..." From the corner,leaning against a counter,Mentor mumbles, "...yea right..." Omega turns to Phoenix and asks, "Phoenix, you said you could teleport--but not very far--how far, exactly, do you think you can go? Can you take others with you when you teleport?" Before Phoenix can answer the group hears a shout from the medlab, "Little help in here! We have a situation!"
11:20-11:30 pm "Oh hell, what now?" Omega mutters as he burst into blue flame.Beside him Scar begins to spark with electricity and everyone runs toward the med-lab. On the way Omega asks, "We're not under attack are we? There weren't any alarms..." His answer comes quick as the group arrives at the clear door to the medlab.Inside they see Maxi-Miss straining to hold back Zephyr.Zephyr is covered in ice and her eyes glare at Reaper.She screams, "Move out of my way! The puny mortal wishes to view the powers of a Goddess and I have an itch to show him! " Maxi-Miss glances at the gathered group through the clear wall, "Ummm...can someone give me a hand here?" The Striker jolts,the sound of metal on metal rings through the cabin. The base interrupts the little tussle, "...docking with Striker II complete...further orders?..."
11:30-11:40 pm Reaper glares at Zephyr and says, "If you wish to destroy me, do it after this mission ends. Till then, we can not endanger the mission by fighting amongst ourselves." Zephyr continues to stare at him as Omega yells out, "Zephyr--Reaper--what the hell is going on back here? Would everyone please just calm down? Can't we all go just ten freakin' minutes without one hero jumping down another hero's throat? Come on guys, we have enough problems without all this pointlesss bickering! In case you haven't noticed we've got the damn apocalypse happening out there right now! Zephyr, this conduct is unbecoming of a Protector, let alone a goddess--please stand down. And may I remind both of you that we are on board an aircraft here, so let's not go blasting and zapping and freezing stuff, okay? It might breach the hull and oh...I don't know...CAUSE US TO CRASH? The legacy virus is doing enough damage to the meta population without us helping, thank you very much. Now...I think SOME of us were in the process of trying to plan for an attack?" Scar takes a defensive stance,eyes glued on Zephyr, as she turns and locks her icy stare on Omega, "I told you once before,I will not stand insolence from a mere mortal." Phoenix walks up behind Omega and his flames flare up. "Forget it.If we were to crash,us flamers could burn threw this hull and fly out.It's not our problem. But the icers such as Lord Galen could give us a quick boost." He grins and looks at Reaper. "Well...Lets look at this from another point of veiw. Something had to provoke Zephyr." Zephyr screams and the clear door cracks, "What,you believe I react this way if not provoked! I'm going to show the runt the powers of a Goddess,so he might believe." Galen steps forward, "Zephyr, as leader of the Guardians I order you to stand down. If anything happens here you will be restrained and detained. Reaper, the same goes for you." Omega turns to Lord Galen and says quietly, "I'm sorry, Galen--she came on with my team so I take responsibility for her, but I'm really beginning to wonder if she's hero material. We've all got our little quirks, I know--but she could truly be dangerous--she believes herself to be above all of us 'mere mortals' and sometimes she seems to act more like a villian than a hero." Poundage just stands by and watches the bickering.He chuckles, "Seems I'm not the only one that doesn't take everyone's shit. Zephyr, as much as I like your attitude, it is not appropriate here. I will not order you to stand down, just ask you to let it go until we finish with our business. Reaper, I will also ask you to shut the hell up. Would you like to question anyone else's powers. If I remember correctly, a few of these gathered heroes have already given you an undeserved beating. Try not to earn another." He turns to go back to the main cabin when Imp,Wraith,Probe,Lieutenant and Afterburn walk up.Wraith looks over the gathered group, "What's going on?" Zephyr stares at Reaper a long moment,then says, "This is not over." She stands up straight,turns and lies down on one of the medlab beds,turning her back to the gathered metas.Phoenix taps Omega on the shoulder, "Now about this Protectors thing. You got a spot open?" As he finishes his question the base is heard, "...I do not like this wait...if the mountain detected both Strikers becoming one radar blip,we may be in trouble...may I suggest we act quickly..."
11:40-11:50 pm Reaper glares at Zephyr for a moment, then sits back down.Omega turns to Phoenix and replies, "I think a slot just opened up...welcome to the team. We have two combat teams, the Protectors and the Sentinels. I lead the Protectors and Vyra leads the Sentinels. We can determine which team would be best for you later on, but for the purpose of this mission we're dividing all the metas up into groups based more on ability so you'll be with my group...the fliers...this time out." Omega looks to Reaper and shakes his head slowly. "You're with me too, Reaper. Zephyr, I suppose you will be with the ground unit?" Omega turns to Galen with a questioning glance, to make sure that he wishes to take her along.Lord Galen speaks angrily, "Base,if I'm not mistaken, I said not to get within range of being detected. Are you telling me now we are in range? If so then lets get this show on the road." The base replies quickly, "...I have established our flight path out of known radar range...I just wish to be cautious...we are not sure what equipment the mountain contains...what exact detection apparatus they have...the Striker now flies in commercial air craft flight paths but they may have detected two aircraft becoming one...I believe haste is in order to maintain the surprise effect..." Poundage nods in agreement, "Let's get this plan on the road. Probe, we have our team. Mentor, Spector, Scar, Colossus, and myself will be going in with you. First sign of major trouble and we are out of there. Also if we encounter this beast or beasts, Collosus and I will try to keep it busy while you guys escape or move on. From what I understand Spector can take some shots too. Just to make sure we all know. Spector will be our "scout" so to speak. He will keep us from walking into rooms, corridors we don't need too. Mentor is our communicator. No spoken words down there. Probe will lead the way with his scanning. Scar will be our "lights out" guy. Colossus and myself will be the "muscle" and quick escape route. Everyone ok with this?" The group look at each other and nod as a hush falls over the room.Vengeance climbs down from the cockpit and looks on as Imp speaks up, "We will need one of the escorting fliers to carry one of the covert team,only 5 people will fit inside the Striker II.Either that or one of the 'big boys' hang on to the exterior as it flies in.Once everyone is ready,we detach the Striker II and let the fliers out,they remain up here until after the ground units hit.The Striker I will dive to ground level and release the ground unit.As soon as the ground unit exits the Striker I will fly to a position above and behind the ground unit to add air support and use it's own weapons.Once we have a reaction from the mountain to the ground attack,I will signal the covert and air team who will streak in to hit the other small building.I plan to stay with the Striker I to coordinate our attacks and help the base in scanning and locating our targets.Any casualties should be brought to the Striker I as soon as possible.I must stress,we do not want to destroy the buildings.They may be the only access into the mountain.Target the troops,not the buildings.Good luck people,the world is counting on us."
11:50-midnight Vengeance looks around at the heroes, "Lets go kick some ass,kids." Lord Galen nods and looks around, "Alright ground troops, lets get ready. Everyone else good luck." Poundage looks to Imp. "If you don't want to chance the Striker getting shot down, I can carry my team and jump our way along with the fliers. If not, I can hang on the outside or jump myself to the drop point. To everyone else, be safe and fight smart." The teams begin to separate,the ground unit remaining in the Striker I,the covert unit,except Poundage,enter the Striker II,the air unit gathers near the door.Imp taps some buttons on her panel then replies, "The Striker will be fine...and it will also give you more cover once your down.One of the air unit can carry you.We'll keep in contact through the Strikers,and each team except the covert team has a badge." She unclips her own badge and hands it to Poundage. "I know you want to remain silent but in case you need to contact us." She looks around the room,"The plan we have developed is a sound one...but remember all,the plan is fluid.Because we are not sure what is in there,the plan may change.Just keep your heads up and let's get that cure..."Omega speaks to the gathered air unit, "Okay, you heard the lady--we'll depart the Striker and wait for the signal. Rogue can carry in Poundage. Our mission is simple, we fly in fast and hard and give them something they're not expecting...concentrate on protecting the covert team from attack from the air and try to take out any heavy artillery on the ground...let's try to give them a clear path for entry." Reaper nods and looks at Omega, "So, I'm with your team, then?" Over with the ground unit,Khaydra says, "Good luck team. Stay safe and think smartly." Scar turns off his electrical defense and walks toward Zephyr. He says to her, "I overheard your words about being a goddess. We will need to talk when this is over. I, myself was created by the gods as a messenger of healing. It seems we have similar backgrounds unlike the others." She looks at him for a long moment,then smiles. "I will see you after." Scar makes his way to the Striker II as Imp prepares to separate the two craft.At her signal the air unit flies out the open ramp and the Striker II separates. The flying unit hovers in the sky near the Striker II as The Striker I pauses,hovering in the air.Below the buildings are barely dots on a white capped mountain.Suddenly the Striker I drops,straight down,nose toward the ground.The whine of the engines increase as the craft screams toward the earth below.The dive seems to last an eternity,all eyes glued to the ship.Just as it seems it will smash into the earth,the Striker pulls a tight turn to a stop,hovering just inches above the ground.It has stopped about 300 feet from the northern most little building.From that building the heroes see small dots emerge and fan out in a small semi-circle.From Wraith's badge Imp can be heard, "...we have 10 bogies exiting the small building approximately 300 feet to your front...they seem to be soldiers in battle suits...also I am reading an energy spike...all hell is about to break loose..."
Midnight PHASE(19-4) The fliers watch as a few of the soldiers move up slowly and fire a few times at the side of the Striker.The Striker returns fire once from it's wing tip.Phoenix asks, " Does anyone here have intelligence to make some high tech armor if I funded it?" Below,something is happening at both large buildings,further up the mountain.The walls on one side of each building retracts up and away revealing a dark interior.The heroes can't make out what may be in the buildings but to catch the glint of metal.
OOG:The Battle Schedule is posted in the forum.Only the Ground Unit acts in this turn.The Covert and Air units will begin on the next turn.
Midnight-Midnight+15 seconds The flying unit hovers high in the sky with the Striker II watching the battle rage below.Shots are exchanged from each side and each hero wonders which heroes if any are the targets of those attacks.Their attention turns to the larger buildings as the earth is shaken with a roar.From each of the large buildings,3 mini-jets scream skyward.From behind the mountain,near the rock outcroppings,a puff of smoke rises and moments later the heroes hear a slight wooosh.From the Guardian badges Imp's voice is heard, "Covert Team...GO...be aware we have six bogies in the sky and a possible missile launch from the rear of the mountain..." The heroes look at each other then to the Striker II.It suddenly noses down and begins to streak toward the earth.The gathered meta's begin to fly after it at top speed.
Midnight PHASES(0-35) The flying unit plummets groundward with the Striker II.Omega instructs, "Try to hit them hard and fast and then pull back...don't let them hit you. Rogue, can you take out that missile?" She looks over at him, "Ah can try..." The gathered group nears the ground quickly,watching as a number of soldiers exit the small building they are flying toward.The Striker II levels out and hovers just inches above the snow. PHASE(41) One of the soldiers rushes forward and levels his rifle.The energy blast smacks into Rogue and sends her flying backwards 40 feet. PHASE(40) Another soldier follows suit,moving close to the hovering Striker II.As he fire's his weapon at Reaper it sparks and the shot goes wild,smacking into the previous soldier.He is sent sprawling into the snow 90 feet away. PHASE(38) A third soldier runs forward and aims at Reaper.The shot smashes into him and sends him backwards 50 feet.He hangs in the sky for a moment then drops into the snow below. PHASE(36) Yet another soldier moves forward and takes a position in front of the Striker II.This one aims at Vyra,and the energy bolt arcs straight to her.The blast knocks her 20 feet backwards and she too falls into the snow below.
Midnight PHASES(35-23) PHASE(35) Omega calls out to his group, "We're getting creamed, here! Phoenix--tend to the wounded! Wake them up if can...everyone set up any defenses you have and after that, hit and run--attack and move! Don't let them know where you're coming from. Choose your best target and attack!" Omega takes aim at the closest soldier and blasts him.The blast strikes true but the soldier barely shrugs from the blow. PHASE(33) A pair of soldiers dash from the small building and one levels his rifle at the flying Omega.The shot goes wide,streaking past Omega's head.The other soldier also fires his weapon at Omega.This shot also streaks past Omega just inches from his head. PHASE(32) Yet another soldier dashes from the small building and fires a shot from his rifle.The shot hits the dazed Rogue and sends her flying another 45 feet before she plummets to the snow below.She lands in a deep snow drift and the other heroes don't see any sign of movement. PHASE(29) Inside his head Poundage hears the soft voice of mentor. [I have established a mental link with all the members of the covert team.Ready when you are.] PHASE(27) Wraith swoops down low and aims his staff at the nearest soldier.A blast of energy shoots toward the soldier and smacks him in the chest.The soldier stumbles backwards slightly but remains on his feet. PHASE(26) A soldier in the middle of the group of soldiers aims his rifle at Phoenix and fires.The shot arcs into Phoenix and he falls to the snow below. PHASE(25) Another soldier aims his weapon and the blast streaks toward Omega. It strikes him and sends him flying 40 feet before he too falls to the earth,unconscious. PHASE(24) A soldier in the rear of the group aims at the swooping Wraith and fires.The blast is accurate and smashes into Wraith.He doesn't seem to notice and continues to fly overhead. PHASE(23) Specter steps from the Striker II and looks around.He picks a soldier and rushes up to him.He sings a fist and connects with the guys jaw.The man lets out a oooofff as he flies 45 feet. "Come on let's get inside before we're all dead!" Suddenly Imp's voice is heard through the badges. "I have finished my scans of the soldiers...we aren't fighting normal soldiers here.They seem to be enhanced,possible genetic manipulation.I have verification,many of the soldiers have cybernetic implants,most have bionic legs...."
Midnight PHASE(22) PHASE(22) Poundage speaks to his team through the mental link, "Covert team gather together. I will try to carry us and jump over these soldiers to the building. If we try to fight them, we won't have anything left for inside." He touches the badge. "Imp, is there anyway you can cover us with the Strikers while I try to jump us to the building? Also, you may want to consider appointing someone to gather the wounded. I think I just saw Phoenix go down.Also try to contact local police or military,we need some back up here.Tell Galen to get inside the building and ice the door.We're falling like flies out here." Her reply is quick, "I'll do what I can,but hurry and get inside.I'll have Wraith begin to collect the fallen heroes." Poundage looks around at the soldiers trying to pick the one that seems to be the commander.The soldiers all seem to be dressed the same,and with those helmets on he believes they may be taking orders from inside the mountain.Poundage picks out the nearest soldier and concentrates.The soldier seems not to notice.Probe dashes from the Striker II and runs past all the soldiers.He gets to the small building on a run and stands at the open door concentrating.From the each wingtip of the Striker II a blast arcs out.Both blasts smash into the nearest soldier.His metallic armor absorbs both blows and the soldier remains on his feet.From the badge Imp can be heard, "Wraith,as the only remaining member of the flying unit I need you to gather the wounded and bring them to the Striker I.Everyone else,find cover...the best objective now is to get inside,force the soldiers to fight in cramped quarters,we can't handle the firepower in the open.Also with the air unit down the only air cover we will have is the Strikers,and we don't want to risk them being destroyed."
Midnight PHASE(21) The once clear skies now begin to cloud over quickly.The clouds start to darken quickly and the winds begin to pick up.A soldier in the rear points his weapon to the sky and the blast strikes Wraith.He doesn't react as looks toward the clouds "That isn't natural..we need to find cover." PHASE(20) A jet streaks past overhead,launching a missile toward the Striker II.It impacts,rocking the small craft.The base is heard loudly, "...DISEMBARK...THIS CRAFT WILL BEGIN EVASIVE MANEAUVERS IN 10 SECONDS..." PHASE(19) A soldier to the rear hollers out to his team mates. "Defense posture #2 initiated..." ,he announces flipping a switch on his weapon. PHASE(18) One of the soldiers turns toward the small building and an energy blast shoots from his rifle.The blast passes through Specter and digs a small chunk out of the concrete wall.Another shots hits next to it,also moving through Specter first.A soldier fires a shot into Probe that tosses him into the wall.He lets out a oommpp as he hits but stays on his feet. PHASE(17) Another soldier fires at Specter and watches as the shot passes through Specter.The wall behind him takes another blast and the crater in the wall becomes larger.From behind the mountain a large booms echoes and a small cloud of smoke quickly dissipates in the strong wind.Another jet streaks overhead,noticeably bobbing in the wind.There is an explosion at the Striker II as another missile hits it's target.The base,again,is heard loudly, "...REPEAT...DISEMBARK...THIS CRAFT WILL BEGIN EVASIVE MANEAUVERS IN 10 SECONDS..." PHASE(15) Colossus climbs from the Striker II and runs up toward the nearest soldier,his metallic hands balled into fist.About halfway there he smashes into an invisible wall,stumbling backwards. PHASE(14) Mentor steps from the Striker II and walks up near Colossus.Through the mental link she says, [They seem to have some kind of forcefield they can turn off or on.In the base or one of the foot soldiers?]
Midnight PHASE(12-8) PHASE(12) Wraith flies down and picks up Omega's body.Scar runs up to where Colossus and Mentor stand near the forcefield.Another jet screams down,visibly wobbling in the wind,and another missile strikes the Striker II. PHASE(11) One of the soldiers gets into a prone position and takes aim at Mentor. PHASE(10) Another soldier turns away from the Striker II and fires at Probe.The blast strikes him in the upper body,slamming him into the wall.He falls from the wall and lies in the snow,unmoving. PHASE(9) A soldier aims toward Wraith and fires a blast.The blast streaks past him,narrowly missing him. PHASE(8) Another soldier aims his weapon at Wraith and fires a blast.The blast strikes Wraith,sending him flying 50 feet through the air.He barely holds onto the body of Omega and tries to shake off the hit.Specter stands at the small building,looking back at the heroes behind the forcefield."We need to take the field down,or you can't make it over here." ,he says as he runs to the soldier that spoke of a defensive posture.He raises both hands above his head like a club and brings them down on the soldier.There is a metallic clang as his fist connect with the soldier's armor.
Midnight PHASES(7-0) PHASE(7) The Striker II,now empty,slowly rises back into the sky.A blast from each wingtip streaks out and smacks into the forcefield.The field seems to hold as the Striker II continues to rise in the sky.Poundage grabs Scar,Mentor and Colossus and leaps high into the sky.He lands with a small whoomp in the snow near the small building. PHASE(6) A soldier turns a fires his weapon at Scar.The shot strikes him in the shoulder and he goes limp in Poundage's grasp. PHASE(4) Another soldier fires his weapon at Specter.The blast passes through Specter and strikes the building behind it. PHASE(3) A soldier turns his weapon to the sky and fires at Wraith.The blast strikes him,shoving higher into the air.Another soldier fires at Specter but again the blast passes through him smacking into the wall behind him.A third soldier fires at Poundage,the blast striking him.Poundage doesn't seem to notice.The wind has picked up until it now bends the trees.Everyone outside now finds it hard to stand and the blowing snow makes it hard to see just a few feet ahead.From the badge Imp is heard, "The storm is raging out of control,it's getting dangerous to be outside.I suggest those near the small buildings continue inside and those not near the buildings hunker down until the Strikers can pick you up..." PHASE(31) Mentor looks toward the others then turns and dashes into the small building.
Midnight PHASES(26-12) PHASE(17) Specter follows Mentor into the small building,the falling snow passing through him. PHASE(16) Through the mental link the group hears Mentor [Hurry in here...we seem to have found an elevator...and I believe they know we are inside...] PHASE(15) Poundage runs into the small building with the others.He finds himself in a large room,40 feet by 20 feet.The far wall is one large door,with a seam in the middle.There seems to be a panel with buttons on the wall to his left with a flashing red light.A mechanical voice is intoning, "...code red,base intrusion...code red,base intrusion..." Inside Poundage speaks through the link, [Colossus, can you please carry Probe. I will carry Scar. This sucks. No one to lead us.] He taps the badge, "If anyone wants to move with us, let us know. There isn't many of us left. We may need Imp downstairs now that Scar is out. If you want to come with us, we will wait inside the building. If not, we are going in.We've lost Probe and Scar, but will carry them on. " The reply he hears is Imp, "Some of the others have also made it inside...through the other building,perhaps they may be able to aid you.The storm has grounded the Strikers and it is too dangerous for anyone to be out in it.Right now Wraith is risking his own safety to collect the downed members of the team.You can contact me on the badge and I should be able to help accessing any files." Through the link,Poundage speaks with his team. [Anyone else here able to work on electronics? Scar is down as well.] Specter replies, [I have some basic understanding and consider myself fairly intelligent.] Mentor also replies, [I,too,am above average intelligence.]
Midnight PHASES(11-TURN 3 PHASE(20)) PHASE(11) Galen is heard through the badge, "Poundage, this is Galen. Zephyr,Afterburn,Marvel Girl,Firewall and myself have made it inside this small building. We will aid you if we can. Right now we are in a room that looks like an elevator. I will keep you posted on our movement." PHASE(9) Colossus finally stumbles into the small building,Scar's limp body over his shoulder. "Tovarish,dat storm is nasty..." PHASE(2) Specter walks over to the control panel on the wall and begins to study it. "I think I may be able to activate the lift.Everyone be ready." He yanks the panel from the wall and begins to tinker with the wiring.A shower of sparks is emitted and Specter let's out a small groan. PHASE(1) Through the mind link Mentor is heard, [Let me help you that...I may be of assistance.] TURN 3 PHASE(25) Mentor closes her eyes and after a couple moments of silence is heard, [It seems to be quite redundant in it's safety features...this could take some time.] PHASE(25) Another shower of sparks and Specter grimaces, "We could use Scar about now."
Midnight PHASES(19-18) The group waits,everyone's nerves on edge.
Midnight PHASES(17-5) PHASE(17) From the badge Lord Galen is heard. "Poundage, we seem to be trapped here. Does anyone in your group have any ideas on the elevator panel? Afterburn has tried and it has done no good. Imp, any ideas?" Imp replies, "I have faith in Afterburn,she's an intelligent woman.There are probably some kind of security protocols,and we don't have the codes needed." PHASE(16) From around the room the mechanical voice is heard again,"...Evacuation Procedure Delta Initiated...Proceed to designated evacuation points..." PHASE(10) Mentor steps over to the panel,as it hangs from the wall.She manipulates a couple of the wires and sparks fly. PHASE(9) Colossus steps over to Poundage. "I can punch an exit through da floor." PHASE(8) Specter smiles, "I'll be back...just going to scout ahead... He slowly fades through the floor,leaving the group to stare at the spot.
Midnight Phase 4 Poundage looks to Colossus, "Good idea. Give it a shot. I am going to get these two out of here." Poundage moves to the door and looks out into the blowing snow.He can not see any sign of either Striker.He shrugs his shoulders and steps back to Colossus.He raises both hands above his head and brings them crashing down on the floor.A hole about a foot in diameter appears where the punch landed.
Midnight Phase 1 Suddenly from all over the room a squeaky voice is heard,"Welcome heroes.I'm sorry your friends couldn't be joining us,such a pity.As you have heard,General Stern has ordered an evacuation and is most assuredly gone already.The soldiers outside also are on their way...well,let's just say 'elsewhere'.That means that you and I are all that remains.Oh I am so sorry,I seemed to have forgotten the Grim Reaper.Just a little creation of mine for just such a circumstance.He will be introducing himself shortly.I thank you for the visit,though it may be a short one.Excuse my manners,I am Dr.Truman,though when all is said and done I will be called GOD.I bid you adieu." Phase 0 Poundage swings at the floor again.His fist smash into the floor with a loud TTHHHOOOMM and the hole doubles in size,now almost two feet in diameter. He then taps his badge, "Galen, we can't get the door open, but we are making progress punching through the floor. If one of you guys are strong enough, maybe you can give it a shot. Also if you guys get into the mountain, raid the first computer terminal you see for every bit of info you can get. Be careful. If they are evacuating, they may also be self-destructing."
Midnight TURN(4) PHASE(25) Mentor looks at the hole. [I would go in first but I am unsure as to the depth of the shaft.] She instead continues to fiddle with the exposed wires of the control panel.More sparks fly and the elevator remains motionless. TURN(4) PHASE(22) Just as she finishes Specter slowly rises out of the floor. "The shaft drops about 100 feet.It opens on a large room that has a couple of doors.I didn't spot any soldiers,but believe I saw force cannons in the wall.Perhaps we leave those two (pointing to Scar and Probe) here.From the sound of the doc,we may have more than just cannons to fight down there."
Midnight PHASE(21) Poundage looks at his team, "With the outside soldiers retreating, we can leave them here. If we go into the shaft, I can jump us all out. So, do we keep fucking with the door or take the hole?" All are silent a moment,then Mentor actually speaks, "We are getting nowhere with the elevator controls.If we continue,we may as well go through the floor.Right now I haven't been able to find any other minds in range."
Midnight PHASE(20) Poundage squares his shoulders and looks at his group, "Alright, once we get below, Spector should go ahead of us and scout. If you see a computer terminal, get everything you can out of it. If you see a safe or any kind of hidden panel/entrance, let us know. Mentor, you stay on top of things. Let us know if you sense another mind. Colossus, you and I can pretty much make our way through. All we need to do is find this doctor or some information. If we run into this "monster", maybe we should just keep on moving. If he wants to fight, make him fight on the run. Sound alright with you guys? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated." As he finishes the group is surprised as a figure stumbles through the door.They all recognize the figure as Rogue and Colossus steps over to steady her. "Ah,good to see you,Rogue.Can't keep an X-Man down." From all over the room that squeeky voice is heard again, "I am disappointed.Are you heroes stopping for a picnic? I am anxious to see how you fair against Grim.Perhaps you need a little encouragement..." The voice ends,only to be replaced by a more mechanical voice, "Self destruct sequence activated...count down beginning at 5 minutes..." PHASE(17) Colossus glances to Poundage and smiles slightly. "Sounds like a plan.Though it doesn't sound like ve vill be able to miss da fight wid da beast.I'll be vaiting on you all." He steps to the hole and squeezes his massive frame through it.
Midnight PHASE(16) Poundage looks to Rogue, "You are welcome to join us if you like or you can take the wounded to the ship. Although your help would be greatly appreciated." Rogue looks at the ground as she replies, "Ah am to beat up to go with ya.Ah would just be a liability.Ah'll stay here with the wounded and take them to the ship when the storm let's up." Poundage nods, grabs Mentor and jumps through the hole. As he falls Poundage taps the badge. "Be warned everyone, they have started a self-destruct program. Imp, the countdown is 5 minutes. Please notify us when we get down to 1 or 1 1/2 minutes left. That way we don't lose track of time. Also, you may want to keep your eyes open for fleeing vehicles. Once the doctor is out, he will probably be easier to get." Imp replies, "Roger,but the storm is wrecking havok on the scanners." The two heroes land with a thud,at the bottom of the large elevator shaft.They look out,noticing Colossus a few steps in front of them,entering a strangely shaped room.High on the wall to the left is some sort of weapon barrel,turning in their direction.Scattered here and there around the room is a couple of chairs and a couple of computer terminals. PHASE(10) Through the mental link Mentor says, [I'll see what I can dig out of the computer,if you guys keep those weapons busy.] She runs over to the terminal and begins to punch buttons. [I'm in! We are on the troop level.This is where they housed the cybernetic soldiers.] PHASE(8) The turret to the right blast at Colossus.The shot smacks him in the chest but doesn't seem to have any effect.The turret further in the room also let's loose a shot.This blast also is on target but the armored Colossus doesn't flinch. PHASE(7) Slowly Specter floats down next to Poundage. "Let's Rock!"
Midnight PHASE(6) The group startles at the scream of ripping metal.They glance up the 100 foot shaft and spot Rogue tearing the hole in the elevator floor larger.She peeks her head through the 3 foot hole. "Just in case ya'll need a quick escape."
Midnight Phase(2) Colossus rushes to the gun turret on the right.Both of his fist slam into the gun and pieces fly in every direction.He smiles toward Poundage, "It is your turn..." PHASE(1) Through the mindlink Poundage says, [Mentor, try to dig up any info you can on the virus. Spector, check out what is through those doors." He leaps to the remaining turret on the left.He connects with a right hook and the gun shatters.Mentor raises an eyebrow and replies through the link, [There is a medical database but I can't seem to access it.I am also reading a research department but those files seem locked also.]
Midnight TURN(5) PHASE(41) Doors slide open at the far end of the room.The group is surprised to see Another elevator containing some of the members of the ground unit,including Lord Galen and Afterburn.Afterburn dashes to the center of the room and looks about quickly. "HaleAndWellMet. SoWhereAreTheBadGuys?" PHASE(29) Mentor looks up from the computer terminal. "I'll connect us all through the mind link." She pauses a moment then all the heroes here her soft voice in their heads. [...O.K...we need to go down further...this floor was only for troop housing...4 minutes,45 seconds till detonation...] PHASE(26) Afterburn dashes to the door on her right,placing her ear against it. "ThereMustBeAnotherElevatorHereSomewhere." There seems to be another control panel located near the door,similar to the control panels in the elevators.
Midnight PHASE(24) Poundage glances at the newcomers, "Anyone who knows electronics get on that computer. We need all the info we can get. Spector will let us know which way to go. Colossus, wanna try tearing up some more floor or some doors." The silver armored X-Man smiles and flexes his metal muscles.
Midnight PHASE(23) Poundage looks to Spector, "Floor or doorways?" Specter rubs his chin a moment, "Well I'm betting the lower levels are much deeper.We would be digging for hours if we go through the floor.I say doors,perhaps we'll find an elevator and go through it's floor." Poundage turns to the door Afterburn is listening too.He swings his right fist in an arc,slamming into the door.The door shatters,the biggest section landing inside an elevator.It is small,only big enough for 5 people max,but an elevator. PHASE(19) Specter steps past Poundage,clapping him on the back. "Good Guess...going down...crazy scientist and beast,here I come..." ,he says as he steps into,then through the elevator floor.Zephyr steps over to Colossus and stares at the door there.She whistles a high pitched whistle.The door crunches inward,barely hanging on the two hinges. "Where is the pitiful mortal...I'll show him what it means to be a god."
Midnight PHASE(15) Poundage looks around at the gathered heroes. "Anyone going down get in. Afte the elevator is full, We can ride it down or hold onto the cables." Marvel Girl steps forward and into the elevator. "We may have to make two trips,the elevator is a little small. PHASE(14) Firewall,too,makes her way onto the elevator. Walking with stately grace Mentor also steps onto the elevator. [Once the first group is down,perhaps one of the big strong men could kindly bust a whole in the floor.We will want a quick escape if we need it.] PHASE(13) From around the room that squeaky voice is heard again. "Well,one level down my esteemed guests.Can you make it two levels before the whole mountain goes ka-plooey...." PHASE(11) Afterburn dashes onto the elevator, "ThatVoiceGivesMeTheCreeps. IThinkWeHaveRoomForOneMore."
Midnight PHASE(9) Lord Galen steps onto the elevator with the ladies,filling it. PHASE(8) Poundage slams a fist into the floor of the elevator.A two foot hole opens at the spot and those in the elevator scrunch to the wall to keep from falling in. "Anyone need a lift down?" ,he asks and is surprised when just about every hero present raises their hands.Colossus steps over and with one swipe of his arm gathers up those in the elevator and perches a couple of the ladies on his shoulders. "Hang on...Colossus express..." PHASE(4) There is a muffled boom heard from the elevator shaft in the south.Zephyr,sitting on Colossus's shoulder,jumps a little. "I hope that was the storm..." Specter slowly rises out of the floor. "The shaft drops another hundred feet and opens into a small hall.At the end of the hall is a large room.And...well...I don't like it...all the lights are out.It's completely dark,so I didn't go far..."
Midnight PHASE(0) "My guess is, that's where this monster is. Someone stay up here and work on that computer. Everyone else be careful down there." ,Poundage says as he looks down the elevator shaft.From her seat on Colossus's shoulder,Zephyr coldly says, "I'm going after the impudent mortal and his pet." TURN(6)PHASE(45) As if in one motion,Afterburn slides from Colossus's shoulder and dashes to the computer. "YouGuysHurryBackNow. Don'tLeaveLil'OleMeUpHereAloneToLong." PHASE(30) She begins to tap the keys so quickly her fingers become a blur. "BelowIsTheResearchAndCommandAndControlLevel. TheSelfDestructControlsWillProbablyBeInTheCommandAndControlArea. FourMinutes,ThirtySecondsRemaining."
Midnight PHASE(26) Lord Galen waits patiently in Colossus's grasp.Another loud bang comes from the elevator shaft in the south followed by the barest sound of metal on metal. Midnight PHASE(24) Mentor closes her eyes and cocks her head in that direction. [I am sensing two minds upstairs in the south building.]
Midnight PHASE(20) Zephyr taps Colossus' shoulder. "Let's get down there,I want to see the doc." Midnight PHASE(19) Firewall and Marvel Girl nod their agreement. "I'll throw up a forcefield at the first sign of trouble.But I don't have a lot a power and can only keep it up for a shot or too.Just DON'T shoot until I tell you the field is dropped." ,Firewall says in a low voice.
Midnight PHASE(18) Poundage taps his badge, "Imp, is anyone from our team upstairs in the south building? Mentor has picked up two minds there." From the badge Imp's girlie voice is heard, "The storm is still raging,no signs of it letting up.I don't know who is in the building,but I believe all the soldiers have hunkered down or left the area.We haven't seen any clue of them once the storm started.We are reading decreased energy usage in the base,shutting down the outer layer." Poundage looks to the team, "Should we check out the two minds or go on downstairs?" Firewall looks toward the hole in the floor then at Poundage. "We have too little time.We need to get down there,find what we need to find and get the hell out of here." Poundage nods, "Spector, maybe you can go spy on these two minds. Lord Galen, once we are engaged in battle, stay close to some people. If we have to get out quick, grab as many as you can and use the badge to flash back to the base." Poundage grabs Zephyr and steps into the hole.The drop is short,about 100 feet,before Poundage lands with a thud.He is at the bottom of the small elevator shaft,the elevator door in front of him closed. PHASE(17) Suddenly that squeaky voice is heard, "Oh no...we have breach of level three!...Oh no...ha ha...welcome to my world...come one come all..." The elevator doors open with a rush revealing a wide and short hall.The end of the hallway seems to open into a larger area but everything is dark.Deep in the darkness a small light begins to blink...
Midnight PHASE(15) There is a thud from behind Poundage that he knows has to be Colossus and the rest.Poundage speaks without turning around. "I think I see this beast. Everyone be ready. If I have to I will shoot it with these infected darts." His muscles tense as he yells down the hallway, "Let's see how you like it when your beast has this virus, DICK!" There is a long silence before the squeaky voice replies, "Virus?...Virus?...come now brave one,it is my creation...I spent years of sweat and toil creating the lovely thing...but it was second to Grim...he is the carrier of death,the bringer...the virus is but one of his weapons..."
Midnight PHASE(11) Lord Galen drops from Colossus' grasp and makes his way into the hallway with the other two heroes.At the end of the hallway he sees a large dark area with some sort of blinking light on the other side.Through the mind link Poundage tries to speak to Specter, [Spector, I know you are a strong character, but with your phasing abilities, maybe you should by-pass this monster and try to find this doctor. We can let you know when the destruction is near. You can stay and fight or go search out this doctor, it is your call.] PHASE(9) Mentor slides form Colossus' shoulder and steps into the hallway also. [He has moved out of my range.But I sense...something...here.There is definitely one mind here,but there is something else...something fluid,changing...I can't pin it down.] PHASE(5) Zephyr hops from Colossus' shoulder and walks to the front of the group in the hallway. "Show yourself!Face the wraith of a true deity!" PHASE(4) Both Marvel Girl and Firewall take up a position behind the other heroes in the hallway.
Midnight PHASE(3) Poundage looks to the group, [It's on! Afterburn, how is it coming up there?] He reaches for a wall and tears a large section out and steps up next to Zephyr. "Let's get it on." Then out loud, "Alright doc, your choice, give up now or face the wrath." Through the link Afterburn replies, [ICan'tMakeAnyProgressHere. IDon'tThinkICanAccessTheFilesFromThisTerminal. OhAndProbeIsAwakeAndHereWithMe. ShouldHeJoinYouGuys?] As she is finishing Specter slowly glides down through the ceiling. "The two minds in the southern building are Maxi-Miss and Lieutenant.They are both injured so I told them to just stay there."
Midnight PHASE(2) Through the mind link Poundage speaks to the others, [Afterburn, see if Probe can find another computer terminal to use. If not, tell him it is up to him whether he joins us, but we are about to engage this monster. Spector, maybe you can phase around and see if you can't get this doctor. If he is in with the monster, maybe we can get Afterburn down here to run in, grab him, and run out, while we distract this beast.] Suddenly one light pops on,aimed at the blinking light.The group is able to see the blinking light seems to be a switch on the wall.An area of the wall next to the blinking light slides up and the gathered heroes can barely make out a large shape.It is man shaped but stands 10 feet tall and two red dots glow where the eyes should be.That squeaky voice is heard, "My pathetic heroes,I wish to introduce the Grim Reaper,also known as mutant X.He shall be the last thing you see." TURN(7)PHASE(30) Through the link Mentor is heard, [There is something very strange about the creature,his mind is...vague..like it's not completely there.But that is impossible.] She runs into the large room and fires a powerblast from her wrist bands.The blast strikes the creature in the chest but Grim doesn't even notice.
Midnight PHASE(22) Through the link Afterburn is heard, [I have searched this level and can not find another terminal.I'll be coming down,there has to be another terminal.] PHASE(21) Specter smirks at the beast,his fist clenched. "As much as I want a shot at the thing,I'll go look for the doc." He slowly fades into the floor.
Midnight PHASE(20) Through the link Poundage says,[Spector, you can do what you like. I think you are valuable either way.] He heaves the hunk of wall towards the beast.The hunk narrowly misses Grim,clanging off the wall next to him. [How does everyone feel about trying to block this thing in? I figure if we can wall him in and contain him, it may be easier to find what we need to.] Colossus is the first to reply, [Da,dat is a good idea,but I think we may not have the time.I vill clobber him.]
Midnight PHASE(18) Zephyr takes a small step forward,her body completely encased in ice.She opens her mouth and the voice that comes out is heard from everywhere around the room.The words carry power and the monster takes a half of a step backwards,almost cringing. "BACK FOUL BEAST ! YOUR MASTER HAS DEFAMED THE GODDESS ! BACK !" Through the link Poundage says, [Probe, if Afterburn is coming down here, try to find another terminal and get some info. After that hit you took, you may not want to come down here.] Probe's reply is quick as a thought. [Afterburn is on her way...I'm beginning a scan now..." Everyone on the mindlink gets the brief impression they can FEEL everything around them,actually and they just know Probe has his eyes closed as he moves around on the upper level. PHASE(17) Grim squares his shoulders and shrinks to down to a normal six foot man.He growls a loud growl as his glowing eyes turn toward Zephyr.As the creature stalks forward fifteeen feet the squeaky voice is heard again, "DPosture #47" The creature stops and pauses a moment. All the heroes on the mind link hear a faint voice,sounding like it's coming from the end of a long tunnel. "...help me...help...me..." The voice fades as Grim's eye's flash a bright red.A crimson shaft of light arcs out smacking into Zephyr sending ice dust up in a small cloud.PHASE(16) Lord Galen concentrates and raises his arms.He runs forward and comes to a stop about 30 feet from Grim.The ice blast erupts from his hands,but misses the beast.The blast hits the wall,leaving a large hunk of ice.Firewall speaks to the others through the link, [...let me know when you need a forcefield up...] She raises the flame throwers on her wrist and flames leaps out at Grim.The flames flow over every inch of his body,but he barely seems to notice. PHASE(15) Mentor fires another blast at Grim,striking him in the midsection.Grim ignores the shot as the others hear Mentor's confused thoughts. [...who...who was that...something very weird here..."] Colossus leaps forward on his large,metal legs.He lands face to face with Grim and raises his right arm in a large arc.The creature evades the sweeping round house with ease,only a small grunt escaping it's lips.
Midnight PHASE(7) Inside their heads the heroes pass thoughts.Poundage first, [Mentor, Scar told me of a boy that needed our help. That may be the other mind we hear. Can you pin point mind location?] Mentor's thoughts return quickly,still sounding confused. [...I can't...I sense the doctor's mind here but something else...like grasping a...shadow...] From upstairs the group senses Afterburn moving south and pressing the elevator button on the level upstairs. She thinks, [ComeOn, SlowMachine, Damn, Anytime, ComeOn..] PHASE(6) Poundage thinks, [Afterburn is on her way down and she may be fast enough to get by this beast and to the doctor. Sounds like he is commanding it. Probe, can you possibly detect anyone around the immediate area except for us and this beast? By the way, don't get too far. Remember it is going to self destruct.] Before Probe can reply Specter is heard. [Hey guys,I've found another larger area.Through the door behind the creature.It's dark but I think it may be a lab...a really big lab.] PHASE(5) Poundage dashes forward,concentrating.He tries to stir up fear in Grim but the creature doesn't react.
Midnight PHASE(3) Poundage quickly asks, [...Spector, is there anyway to get Probe or Afterburn in there?...If not, can you try to find a terminal and get some info?...] Specter thinks back, [No,I can't bring people with me...I'll try to look around...it's so dark in here...]Zephyr takes a few,quick steps forward. "We get to do this the hard way...you...then your master...good..." Her fist flies up and an ice blast shoots out.The ice strikes it's target,creating a small mountain of ice almost seven feet high.Through the shared mind link Probe is heard, [...I have probed the area,there is no other terminal up here...all connections to this terminal lead down...I'll see what I can do...] PHASE(2) There is a muffled roar from the ice mountain and the gathered heroes again hear the far-away voice in their heads. [...i...don't...want...to...be......hel...] There is a bright flash inside the ice mountain but the ice seems to hold.Marvel Girl looks at Mentor,puzzled.In the middle of the dark room the clump of ice rises into the air,hovering twenty-five feet in the air. [...i have the creature...what was that voice?...] ,she thinks as she walks to the middle of the dark room.
Midnight PHASE(1) Poundage glances at the hovering ice chunk, [Galen, you and Zephyr go to the ice rock and teleport it to the base in Midville. There you should lock it into a secure room. WE will try to find this doctor and get some info before it blows up. Zephyr, I know you want this doctor, but you seem to be the only one to handle this beast the best.] She glares at him,but nods an affirmative. Lord Galen looks up at the ice ball,flaoating twenty-five feet above the floor.He realizes it's too great a distance for a leap,and looks at the floor.Beneath his feet a two foot diameter column grows,pushing Lord Galen upward and forward to the encased beast.He places one hand on the ice and looks at Zephyr,ready to tap his badge and teleport.Poundage taps the badge he is carrying. "Imp, we have the beast encased in ice. Galen is going to take someone and teleport back to the base in Midville. There,we are hoping to contain him." Imp's reply is quick and calm, "Roger...prepping room north of the HQ...coming up on the four minute mark." Midnight PHASE(0) Poundage looks over to Lord Galen[Galen, when you get there, you may want to keep him covered in ice. The ice may keep him stationary.] Firewall dashes to the corridor the beast seemed to be protecting and gazes down it's dark depths. [...be careful...we're not sure we DO HAVE him...what powers does he have?...]
Midnight TURN(8)PHASE(46) The heroes in the mind link feel Afterburn's impatience as she waits for the elevator upstairs.She continues to mutter quickly under her breath. Answering Firewall,Poundage thinks, [He apparently has an array of powers. Let's see if they can get him out of here and then we will have four minutes to scour. Probe, it is probably safe for you to come down now. Just stay back until this beast is gone.] Midnight PHASE(24) Probe replies quickly, [...roger...I'll be joining Afterburn at the elevator...] Also through the link the group feels Specter's surprise then hear him in their heads. [...uuuggg...I think I have found a body...it seems to be connected to machinery with a lot of wires....]
MIDNIGHT TURN(8)PHASE(22) Poundage looks around the large,dark room. "COME ON,DOC.GIVE YOURSELF UP OR FEEL THE WRAITH.ISN'T IT BAD ENOUGH YOUR GOING TO LOSE ALL THIS?" ,he yells to the room.He thinks to the team, [Spector, let us know where you are and we will be there as soon as we can. Try to find a terminal and get some info. This might be the boy that Scar mentioned. Everyone stay close, once Galen is gone, I will have the only badge. If everyone stays close, I can carry all of you and teleport back to the Midville base.] Poundage taps the badge, "Imp is Scar awake? We may have found the boy he was talking about. He said this boy needed our help. Also keep your eyes open. The doctor may be trying to leave soon. If we get too close to d-time, I will teleport everyone back to the Midville base." Suddenly there is a loud crash as the ice explodes under Lord Galen's hand.Pieces of all sizes clatter off the walls as the beast hovers in the air.His red,glowing eyes turn to peer at Poundage.His lips move but what comes out is more of a growl. "...gggrrr...gggrrreat sacrrrifices must be made...including you and yourrr frrriends..." Firewall spins with a "EEEKKK!!!" and flame shoots from her wristbands.The flames strike the beast on his right side,but he doesn't seem to notice.Inside their heads the heroes hear that voice,fainter than before. [...almost...gone...hold...longer...] MIDNIGHT TURN(8)PHASE(21) "I know not your game,but I refuse to play.", Zephyr says to nothing in particular.Her eyes seem to flash as she raises her hands.Ice streaks toward the beast,striking him in the chest.The ice quickly covers Grim's body,a sphere about 5 feet around
MIDNIGHT PHASE(20-19) Imp is heard through the badge. "...Scar was with you...the storm still clouds my detection equipment,and I still don't know the whereabouts of some of the heroes..." Marvel Girl looks around at the others,her brow set in concentration. [...I can hold him for a little while,but the ice isn't going to hold him apparently...maybe a change of plan...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(18) Lord Galen looks around the room,unsure what he should do.He reaches his hand toward the ice sphere and touches his badge. "Enter." ,he says and instantly disappears.Firewall gasp, "He took it...all alone...oh god,will he be able to handle it alone?"
MIDNIGHT PHASE(17) Marvel Girl answers Firewall as she walks toward the far hallway. "If this Grim has the abilities described,I don't think any ONE of us can handle him.Let's hurry and get the information from that lab so we can get back." She walks down the dark hallway,slowly. MIDNIGHT PHASE(16) Through the mind link the group here's the impatient Afterburn waiting for the elevator.Her thoughts are extremely quick,her impatience growing.Probe's thoughts are calmer,softer. [...we should be there soon...] MIDNIGHT PHASE(15) The elevator doors open upstairs and the group of heroes feel Afterburn's relief. MIDNIGHT PHASE(14) "Right behind you,Jean..." ,Colossus says as he also heads down the dark hallway. MIDNIGHT PHASE(9) Mentor starts down the hallway behind Colossus as the group hears Specter in their heads. [...damn I wish I had some light in here...um,guys..this isn't a boy...a much older man,machinery connected all over the place...and dead,definitely dead...but he's still warm..he hasn't been dead long...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(7) Poundage walks over to the elevator to await the arrival of Probe and Afterburn.Firewall looks in his direction,her eyes wide.She takes a glace down the dark hallway,then starts to slowly walk down it.
MIDNIGHT PHASE(6-4) Poundagesends his thoughts to the other heroes, [As soon as Probe and Afterburn make it down, I will catch up with you guys. I am kind of responsible for Probe, so I want to stay with him.] Zephyr glances over at him,anger burning in her eyes. [I'm going to go find this doctor and show him what the wraith of a god is like...] She looks at Poundage a second longer,then turns and strides confidently down the hallway.
MIDNIGHT PHASE(3) Glancing at the elevator door,Poundage thinks, [Zephyr, I detect you do not like my choices. You must realize that Probe can help us find this doctor without searching around every corner. I want this doctor as much as you. Remember, we want him alive if at all possible. If he won't give up information, we can have someone probe his mind.] Zephyr's reply is short and quick, [...I understand...though I care not for this information...I will vent my wraith...] MIDNIGHT PHASE(2) Inside the dark lab Marvel Girl stumbles,her boots echoing in the large room. [...I can't find a way to turn on the lights...too dark...] MIDNIGHT PHASE(1) Inside the elevator Afterburn begins to get anxious,her thoughts racing.Probe is much calmer,his eyes closed.
MIDNIGHT PHASE(-4) Poundage stands alone in large room,waiting for the elevator. In his head he hears Collosus. [...some of dis machinery is very big...some blinking lights,as far as I can see...]
MIDNIGHT TURN(9)PHASE(44) Poundage waits for the elevator,hearing Afterburn's impatience in his head. [I guess none of us have the ability to light this room up? If anyone has any kind of fire powers, they need to get into that room and light it up.] Firewall replies quickly, [..I have a flame thrower...I'll try to find something to burn,my blast don't last that long...]" MIDNIGHT TURN(9)PHASE(27) Mentor is the next voice Poundage hears in his head. "[...definitely a medical research lab...very large...this is where the doctor did his evil work...]
MIDNIGHT TURN(9)PHASE(24) In a very calm voice Probe thinks, [We are almost there...the trip has allowed me to do a little 'probing'...the construction in this mountain was hasty...but sturdy...I have found a few redundant systems...back-ups to back-ups...funny,I haven't detected any explosives in the elevator shaft...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(23-21) Colossus is next herad through the mind link, [...I have found a console vid a countdown displayed...less den four minutes remaining...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(20-19) Poundage grows impatient,waiting for the elevator and begins to absent-mindedly tap his toe. [Does anyone think they can tinker with this monitor Colossus found and stop this countdown?] ,he thinks to the group in the research lab.Specter replies before any of the others can, [...I'll give it a try,but until we get some kind of light in here it will be about impossible to stop the countdown or get any information.]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(18) [Someone find something to burn. Firewall can light it up.] ,Poundage thinks as he looks around the room for anything flammable.All around the room he sees nothing but metal.From the research lab,Zephyr thinks back to him. [..in the process of gathering what we can...but I WANT the doctor!...] PHASE(17) There is a moment of pause before Poundage hears Firewall in his head. [...O.K. I have the fire started,we found a couple chairs,some papers...AAAAAHHHHHH...gross!...the body..it's an older gentleman and he has machines connected to him everywhere...he seems to be wearing a lab coat...] PHASE(16) As she is finishing the doors to the elevator slide open.Afterburn and Probe step out,Probe with his eyes closed,his brow wrinkled in concentration. "The construction details continue on this level...and the computer conduits continue into the far room...let's go." PHASE(14) Afterburn looks at the two, "I'mThere." She dashes at top speed across the room and down the corridor. PHASE(13) Probe walks slowly accross the room,his eyes still closed. "These construction details,the redundant systems,seem familiar to me...I just can't place where I have 'sensed' them before." He continues to walk across the large room and into the corridor to the research lab. PHASE(12) In his mind Poundage hears Mentor's soothing voice. [...I have found terminal and will try to get something out of it....someone try to find another and try to stop that countdown...] PHASE(10) The heroes continue to hold a conversation through the mind link.Marvel Girl is heard next, [...I'm on it...there is a console near the counter,I'll see what I can do...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(9) Poundage again finds himself alone in the large,dark room.Through the mind link the group hears Specter, [...I do not understand this body being here...we haven't heard the small voice in a while either...could this dead man have been the source?...wait a minute...this body is not restrained in any way...I'm going to start checking out some of this equipment,see if I can figure out what experiment he was involved in...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(5-4) Inside his head,Poundage hears Firewall as she seems amazed at the size and scope of the lab. [...this place is HUGE...some of this equipment is the size of small buildings...what was he doing in here?...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(3) Poundage walks down the dark corridor into the research lab.He notices the other heroes scattered around the room but it is the room and the equipment that catches his attention.The room seems to go on forever,the ceiling is at least 30 feet high.There is machinery and equipment all over the room and some of the machinery is big enough to hold a few houses.Off to his left Poundage spies Specter crouched over the body of a middle aged man in a white lab coat.Poundage steps over and decides to study some of the equipment,trying to find any information he can.Zephyr,sill covered in her ice armor,moves about the equipment,peering at each piece then moving on. "I do not understand this equipment...DOCTOR...COME OUT AND FACE MY WRAITH!" PHASE(2) Firewall stares at Zephyr with wide eyes and turns back to the console she is studying. "HEY!I think I have accessed the countdown...Holy shit...The mountain is definitely going sky high.There seems to be a number of underground reactors that provide power for the base.Everyone of those reactors is now on overload.I don't think we have the time to try to stop all of them,and the system is set up so that any tinkering with the countdown will cause the reactors to blow." PHASE(0) As she is finishing Afterburn appears in a blur. "IHaveSearchedMostOfTheRemainderOfTheBase. IFoundLivingQuartersForTheGeneralAndTheDoctor. AlsoIFoundACellWhereIAssumeTheBeastWasKept. ButIDidn'tFindAnyOtherPeople. IfThereWasABoyHereTheGeneralMustHaveTakenHim."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(-1) Poundage turns to one of the machines and begins to punch a few buttons,trying to get any information he can. [Good job Afterburn. Looks like all we can do is try to get info out of these computers before we get out. Afterburn, were there any kind of file cabinets or desks in these living quarters. You would think that this doctor has something on paper somewhere in this mountain.] She looks at him a moment before replying, [... IDidNoticeSomePersonalEffectsButWasLookingForTheBoy ... I'llSearchAgain ...] Poundage nods to her and continues, [Alright, lets all get to a terminal and see what we can dig up. Do any of these machines look like a recombinator? We could use one of those.] TURN(10)PHASE(37) Afterburn gives the other heroes a nod then disappears in a blur. PHASE(31) Mentor scans the room before thinking, [..I can't be certain but I believe one of those large machines over there are a recombinator...] PHASE(27) Zephyr storms between machines, "I WILL NOT BE DENIED MY WRAITH!" She slams a fist into the machine to her left,the clang echoing through the room. PHASE(25) Specter is still bent over a console near the body,searching for information. [...I'm finding it hard to dig through these files,this doctor was very thorough in his security...but his experiments seem to be more than just this virus and the beast...]
MIDNIGHT PHASE(24) Poundage steps over to the machine Mentor motioned to and begins to study it. [Zephyr, I know you want this doctor, I do too. I believe the doctor is either in the beast suit or is that dead body on the table. Mentor only detected one other mind before,and once the beast left, so did it. Lord Galen may need help back at the base. How do you feel about going back and helping him? I am extremely confident that the beast is this boy Scar detected needing help. I guess the doctor has transferred minds and is somehow controlling him.] Zephyr turns and glares at him. [Yes,if this doctor is in the beast,send me to him.] Poundage taps the badge. "Imp, I have figured it out. The beast is actually the doctor or under the doctor's control. This dead body here has to be the doctor. He must have done some kind of mind transfer. If you would send Wraith and Vengeance down, Zephyr would like to get back to the base. Lord Galen needs some help. Also, I have found a recombinator. I think we can get it back with a badge." Imp's reply is quick and exited. "Amazing...but the possibilities here...I'll send Vengeance and Wraith down.The storm is abating and the Striker's scanners are able to operate correctly.I am reading no other life forms in the base.The countdown is at 3:30 and counting.I suggest you send any non-essential people out and to the Striker." Poundage looks at the other heroes, [Anyone else down here that wants to go before it gets hairy or wants to go help at the base, gather round for Wraith and Vengeance. Anyone staying can jump on the recombinator when I use the badge to get it back to the base when we feel it is necessary. We have to wait and see what we find and how quick.] Poundage starts to disconnect the very large machine.
MIDNIGHT PHASE(22-21) Poundage continues to disconnect the many cables and connections to the recombinator. "Zephyr, Wraith will be here shortly to take you to the base. Keep in mind that we think the boy inside the suit is innocent. Try not to kill him. Anyone that needs to go, should make their way to the ship or teleport with Wraith when he arrives. I can only take as many people as I can carry. Anyone that can't help with the computer search can go ahead and head back to the ship." Poundage taps the badge. "Imp, can you have the base ready the medlab for the doctors body? We can have Wraith take Zephyr and whoever else wants to go and then Vengeance can take the body back. When I get this recombinator disconnected, I will teleport anyone left and the recombinator back to the base. I am going to send a few people out to gather the wounded. Do we know how many we have?" Imp's replies, "Eeeewwww...your bringing a dead body? O.K.,I'll have the medlab ready...I have had Wraith out searching so I believe the only wounded we have rounded up is those in the buildings.I would like the ones not involved in gathering the recombinator and info to get back to the Striker.From my scans,when this mountain goes up,we want to be well away from it." Poundage looks back to the group. "A few of you need to go out and gather the wounded and get back to the ship before the mountain blows. Probe, I would like for you to be one of those people. Your scanning can help find the wounded and some others can round them up. Is that ok with you? Any Volunteers for the "med-vac" team." Firewall steps forward, "I'm not doing much to help here so I'll go with Probe."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(20-18) Firewall nods at Probe. "You ready?" ,she asks as she steps to the elevator.
MIDNIGHT PHASE(17-16) Probe steps over to the elevator and catches Poundage's eye. "I'll go but be careful,there is a lot in this construction that I don't trust.The redundant systems,the security systems especially are hard to track." He and Firewall step onto the elevator and the doors shut.Mentor stands over a console,deep in concentration.Suddenly she shrieks, "I've got something!I'm inside the research files...if I can get passed the security protocols,I'll burn them to a disc.There definitely was a boy here,age 17,only referred to as mutant x." PHASE(14) Zephyr stands,disgusted,her hands on her hips. "Let me at the beast,a God's wrath is nothing to toy with." Colossus glances at her with a sideways glance then ask Poundage, "How may I help?" PHASE(11) Marvel Girl taps a few keys on her console and suddenly the console starts a small buzz. "I think I am past the protocols,burning the data now.Estimating about 4 minutes to burn all the data,damn we don't have the time!" PHASE(10) Specter slams a fist into his console, "There has to be a way!"
MIDNIGHT PHASE(9) Poundage looks at Colossus, "Really, all we can do is gather this info. If you don't think you can help with that, you can do anything you think needs done." He looks around at the rest of the heroes, "Anyway.Can we send the info to the Striker or base and store it in their computers?" Colossus brightens up, "I vill look for a communications panel..." Poundage finishes disconnecting the recombinator,slowly and surely. PHASE(7) As he finishes,Afterburn dashes in with an armload of papers. "IDidn'tGetToLookThroughThem, ButIGrabbedWhatICould."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(5) Poundage smiles at Afterburn, "Good job,Afterburn. You missed a little bit while you were gone. We sent a few out to gather the wounded.Mentor has found the info we need, but we don't have time to copy it. We are trying to find a way to send it to the ship or the base. I have this recombinator disconnected. We are going to take it back with us. I don't think we should worry about what those pages contain yet. We will just take them all back and go through them when we return." Poundage taps the badge, "Imp, we have found some information that would be useful. We don't have time to copy it so we are trying to send it to you. Afterburn also found some paper work. We don't know what it says, but we are bringing it all back with us. Also, I have the recombinator completely disconnected and it is ready to go. When we are all finished, I will teleport it to the base. Whenever you guys need to leave, do so. I can get all these people and the recombinator back with your badge. Wraith is going to take Zephyr when he gets here and Vengeance can take this body when he returns." Imp replies excitedly, "Cool! I'll work from my end to have the Striker prepared for incoming transmissions.I'll contact Wraith and Vengeance and have them send any survivors out.Once everyone is accounted for we will leave.Don't waste to much time before you guys blink out."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(4-3) Specter continues to crouch over a console,deep in concentration. "This countdown just doesn't jive...very strange..but..."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(2-1) The gathered heroes continue to brain storm in the research lab as the time slowly ticks away.Mentor looks up from her console,a worried look on her face. "The downloading process continues but we do not have the time to get it all.I'm going to start a search for any kind of communication link,but even that may not give us the time we need." TURN(11) PHASE(41) Afterburn looks around at the others a moment,then begins to page through the paper work in her arms. PHASE(29) A few key clicks and Mentor says, "I've found it,the communications system.I'm going to try to break the data into batches and burn some and transmit the others." PHASE(26) Afterburn continues to flutter through the pages in her hands,her eyes darting from side to side as she skims the pages. "ThereIsSomeSeriouslyTwistedShitInHere. WaitAMinute, I'veStumbledOntoSomeDesignSpecifications. TheyLookVerySimilarToGovernmentPapersAndSpecs. AnotherThingGuys, IHaveFoundAn'ArmegeddonPlan. AndItIncludesTheDestructionOfThisBase. People,WeNeedToGetOutOfHere. ThatCountdownIsn'tForTheExplosion, It'sForTheReleaseOfTheVirusInMostMajorCitiesAroundTheGlobe. WhichMeansWeHaveNoIdeaHowSoonThatExplosionWillOccur."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(25) Poundage gives the group a serious look. "Lets get the communication link going and the info started to send and then we will get out of here." He taps the badge, "Imp, we have some problems. Afterburn has uncovered some strange information. The countdown is a countdown for the release of the virus in major cities around the globe. We don't know when the mountain will go up. You guys should leave ASAP. We will start the information transfer and get out of here. All we need to do is hope that it all gets there." Imp replies, "Holy crap!! Roger,I will contact the others and we will get out as soon as all the injured are onboard." MIDNIGHT PHASE(22) Zephyr stands with her hands on her hips. "Where is Wraith and Vengeance? I want a crack at that doctor." PHASE(19) Specter glances at her for a moment then turns his attention back to the console in front of him. "The communication system is complicated and I can't quite get a handle on it..."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(18) Poundage moves over to the console next to Specter.He glances over at Zephyr, "Zephyr, if they are not here soon, I will take you with us." She gazes back at him,her eyes gleaming behind the ice armor covering her body. Poundage concentrates on the computer and is amazed at the complexity in the system.There seems to be redundancies and back doors throughout the system but all seem to lead him to nothing. MIDNIGHT PHASE(16) Marvel Girl slaps the side of her console, "Damn...whoever designed this system knew what they were doing.Every way I go just leads to another loop,another trap...I sure wish Kitty were here." MIDNIGHT PHASE(14) Mentor has a look of serious concentration as she replies, "Yes...I agree,the design stymies my best efforts also.How long do we continue before we jump out? I estimate we have less than 10% of the data on disc." MIDNIGHT PHASE(11) Afterburn zips over the console next to Marvel Girl.Her hands fly about the keyboard before she states, "GotIt. TheDataIsBeingTransmittedViaMicrowave. LetImpKnow."
MINIGHT PHASE(10) Poundage taps the badge, "Imp, the information is on it's way. I am going to get everyone on the recombinator and head back as soon as the transmission begins. Let's hope we get it all. Vengeance and Wraith, you guys can go ahead and teleport back. I think I can get everyone out." He looks at the group, "Good job everyone. Now, lets tie up the loose ends and everybody get on top of the recombinator. Once we know the info is on it's way, I will teleport all of us to the base. Lord Galen has this beast in the base. When we get there he will need our help. Zephyr, remember, try to keep the beast alive. I think we should cover it with ice and get it into a secure room. Once everyone is on top of the recombinator, I will assume we are ready. Afterburn, you, Spector and Mentor are in charge of telling me when to teleport. when you know it is ready, just say the word. Afterburn, because you have the speed, I am going to leave it to you to get the body. Once we get to the base, your speed will allow you to get it to the medlab. Once again, good job to the group." The group begins to move when the badge beeps and Lord Galen is heard. "Poundage, Wraith, Vengeance. Be on the lookout. I had the beast contained in the Hydro-ponics lab. The base has just informed me that there has been an energy spike and the sensors don't pick him up in there anymore." The next voice heard is Imp's, "Guardians,all heroes accounted for,the Striker is leaving.Don't wait too long before following us." PHASE(9) Colossus looks at the recombinator and his body under goes the transformation,turning him into a skinny teenage boy.He leaps to the top of the machine, "This vill make the load a little lighter." PHASE(7) Zephyr,too, leaps on top of the machine,a scowl on her face. "I will find this beast and I will have me vengeance.He has presumed himself a god and I will not abide that."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(4) Specter leaps onto the recombinator and slowly fades. "I'll go ghost and just keep my hand solid and on the machine.Should relieve the burden."
MIDNIGHT PHASE(3) Poundage taps the badge, "Imp, can you get close to the mountain and let Probe make a scan? Galen seems to think that the beast has returned." Imp's reply comes quickly, "I have continued scans of the base and also have kept an eye on the power fluctuations.The beast has not returned,nor do I think he will.As far as he knows the base is about to explode,returning would mean it's own demise."Poundage looks up at Zephyr,on top of the recombinator. "Zephyr, I promise you, if we don't find him today, we will find him eventually. I want this guy as much as you do." Tapping the badge again,he questions the base. "Base, is there any way for you to possibly track this energy spike?" The base responds, "I have tried...I have been able to determine the spike was a dimensional portal opening and shutting in a milli-second...I have been unable to track the destination..." PHASE(1) Marvel Girl slowly levitates to the top of the recombinator. "Your the last one, Afterburn."
MIDNIGHT TURN(12)PHASE(44) Afterburn grabs the body and dashes up on to the recombinator.She cringes slightly at the feel of the cold flesh she holds as she says, "OK,Poundage,AllOnBoard. Let'sGetOutOfHere." PHASE(29) Mentor looks at the body a moment, "I am very curious to get into those files.What did this doctor do?" Afterburn drops the body at her feet, "AsLongAsIDon'tHaveToHandleDeadBodiesAnyMoreThanNeeded." PHASE(25) Zephyr glances at the body,a smile on her face. "I hope to handle a dead body in the near future.I shall send our doctor friend to Hades."
MIDNIGHT-12:10 AM Poundage begins to lift the Recombinator.He strains slightly,realizing the load is close to the limit he can lift. "Hold on everyone.", he says.He balances the recombinator on his shoulders as he reaches to tap the badge. "Base", he says.In an instant the group is teleported into the base HQ.The passengers of the machine slowly start to climb off,joining Lord Galen,Vengeance and Wraith in the HQ.Wraith is sitting at a computer console,studying some read-outs.He glances over at the new arrivals, "I'm glad you guys got out.I believe I have some explaining to do,but I believe we should await the Striker I before I go to far in to detail." As he finishes the base speaks, "...I have just intercepted a government telecommunications...There has been a major explosion at the mountain base...the National Guard and Army is being mobilized to the site right now..."
12:10-12:20 am Lord Galen looks to the heroes, " I'm glad you all have returned. Base prepare medlab for patients. Was there any more damage to the hydroponics lab? If not, release it from lockdown." The door to the hydro-ponics slides open as the base replies, "..no further damage to hydro-ponics...lock-down negated..." Galen then turns to Wraith, "Wraith I will be waiting impatiently for your words." Wraith looks up from the computer,his face grim. Poundage speaks before Wraith can."Well that's going to be awhile. I'm going to go lie down somewhere. Lord Galen, what is the best place for me to sleep for a little while? Wake me once everyone has arrived and we can all meet." Wraith gives him a thankful look then returns to studying the read-outs in front of him.Vengeance glances at Wraith then asks, "Well is there any thing I can do right now?" Wraith doesn't turn from the console but replies, "Well,the recombinator can't continue to sit on the teleport pad.It won't fit through the doors so it will have to be disassembled.I'm thinking the Trophy room down the hall would be the best location,it has access to an equipment room for power access." Marvel Girl clears her throat, "If I may,I'd like to contact the X-Men.Can I use the communications room?"
12:20-12:50 am Lord Galen speaks to the base, "Show Poundage to sleeping quarters and contact the X-Men for Marvel Girl. As for myself I am going to go rest myself. Wake me when the others arrive. I would suggest the rest of you get some rest as well." The group begins to disperse as Poundage exits the HQ and follows the doors that open before him.The doors lead him to a sleeping room somewhere on the 2nd level.He lies down and begins to fall into a deep sleep.He doesn't get an opportunity to dream as he is roused from sleep by the base. "...the Striker has arrived...all meta's are gathering in the Hangar..."
12:50-1:00 am Poundage slowly rises and asks, "Base, can you lead me back to the hanger?" The base replies, "...affirmative..." Poundage follows the doors as they open for him until he walks into the hangar and is met by a large assembly of meta's.The group murmurs and mumbles until suddenly a hush falls over the group as Wraith enters the hangar and surveys the group.He stands silent,his face grim,then begins to speak. "For those of you who do not know,I am Wraith.I am actually from the future and was brought here by accident a few days ago.I wanted to speak to all of you to give you the lowdown on what I do know about my past and your future." He pauses and glances at his feet. "Much of this area in my history is vague,the mutant rebellion and the Prawn War destroyed many of the files.The Prawn War is another subject for another time,right now I want to focus on the mutant rebellion.The rebellion started soon after the outbreak of the Legacy virus,in response to the government crack down on mutants.In my history there is no record of the virus spreading to normal humans so I had hoped this time line was different.Perhaps that is why I didn't add the clues together to help the current assault.The rebellion decimated society,as the government was unable to stem the fighting.The only thing to quell the battles was the Prawn Invasion." He pauses again,this time the heroes see the pain in his face. "In my history the Guardians had one villain that always seemed to beat them.He was evil,killing at will,fanning the flames for the mutant rebellion.He called himself Dr.Grim and an assault on his base complex resulted in the deaths of many meta's.I believe the beast we faced today is this Dr.Grim." He stops and slowly his hand reaches for his badge.He removes the badge and turns it in his hands as he continues. "I missed every clue that would have warned us of what we would face at the base,and I think we were lucky we didn't lose any more heroes,than we did.We now face a very tough time.The government will begin a crack down on mutants,trying to slow the spread of the disease.Mutants will slowly unite and the rebellion will begin.Tanks will roll through the streets of every major city,soldiers stationed on street corners.Meta's will pick sides and the government will institute a registration act that forces all meta's to register or face internment in the camps with the mutants.Innocent people will be caught in the middle and we shall be powerless to stop it." Again he pauses,staring at the badge in his hands. "We all must do what we can to alter this time line...but I feel I have let you all down.I have not lived up to the honor of this badge.I don't deserve to be a Guardian." The badge drops from his hands,clanking on the metal floor.He turns quickly and strides purposefully from the hangar,leaving nothing but silence.
1:00-1:10 am Vengeance looks around in shock then removes his badge. "I feel I am no help to the Guardians as well.I chose to no longer be a Guardian." He drops his badge and runs after Wraith.The silence is broken as Poundage exclaims, "Well doesn't that suck. All this time we had more information than we thought. I don't see where any of that helped or hurt us. Really it tells me that we did an excellent job this evening. There is a mumble amongst the gathered group,a few heads nodding.Omega looks around at those gathered as he pulls Afterburn closer to him. He looks at the surrendered badges. "Look...I know I'm not a Guardian but, I'd encourage everyone not to make any hasty decisions. What happened today is no one persons fault. And it sounds like we're in for a struggle which is going to require ALL of us to work together." Lord Galen steps forward and picks up the badges. He looks out over the gathered heroes. "For those who don't know me, I am Lord Galen,current leader of the Guardians. I wish to thank all of you who joined in this undertaking. I'm not sure if we managed to help or hinder our situation but at least we tried.Maybe after the base and certain other individuals go over the information that was collected we will have some answer. For any who are injured, the base medlab and Striker medlabs are available for you. As for Wraith, I believe he did all he could and was willing to risk his life like everyone of us. Even had we known the things he just told us, I believe we would have done the same thing anyway. I would gladly welcome him as a Guardian for the help he may be able to give in the future. Poundage, I wish to thank you for your selfless leadership and the ability to keep everyone together down there. Do you have anymore to report?" Poundage replies, "If you would like, I can get some sleep here at the base and when I wake, I can start to take this recombinator apart. If one of you want to take it apart and put it back together, I can go home. Imp would probably be the one you want on that task. She probably would have enough intelligence to remember how to put it together. I can stay and lift all the heavy parts if need be. It is your's and Imp's call." Imp steps over to pat Poundage on the shoulder. "I would appreciate your help and I do want to supervise the project." Vyra speaks up and asks, "How can we stop this?" Maxi-Miss answers, "I have some...um...experience...with government and law enforcement.We need to keep the politicians calm,and keep the public calm.I'm not sure how we do this,but we have to keep everyone from over reacting." Mentor steps over,placing her face in Maxi-Miss's. "OVER REACT! OVER REACT! The government is about to send mutants like me to internment camps because we are born different! I've seen the the hatred for us in men's minds.I WILL NOT STAND BY WHILE MY PEOPLE ARE ROUNDED UP LIKE CATTLE!" A hand grabs her shoulder and she spins with a snarl.She faces Probe,his eyes closed. In a calm,flat voice he says, "Stand down..." Mentor looks down at her feet her breath rapid.Probe turns to Lord Galen, "My people appreciate the effort the Guardians...and all of you..have put forth tonight.I will do what I can in the underground,but I believe it is best if I and my friends return to the outcast beneath the streets." There is silence in the room,heroes staring at heroes,mutants staring at meta's.Omega looks around the room and sees many familiar faces but there are some faces which are notably absent. In a soft, shaky voice, he asks, "How many? How many dead?" Imp hangs her head, "The battle claimed three lives...Khaydra,Fugitive and Scar.Statistics from major hospitals around the U.S estimate hundreds will die in the next few days,thousands in the next week..."
1:10-1:20 am Lord Galen asks, "Base, Have Wraith and Vengeance left the facility? If not, inform them I would like to see them." The base replies, ...affirmative...Wraith and Vengeance reamin in the base...Wraith is waiting in the HQ..." Lord Galen nods and continues, "Base, Have you gone over the information sent to you yet? I want a full report as soon as you can.If this virus is man made then we should be able to create an antidote. Base, start working on it immediately." Before the the base can reply,Imp steps forward. "I have the base started processing the data and I plan to spend quite a bit of time going over it myself." Poundage suggests, "Maybe we should try to contact a doctor that has experience with this virus and have him help us put together all this information. Base, how much of the transmission were you able to receive?" The mechanical replies, "...I estimate I received approximately 20% of the data..." Marvel Girl then enters the conversation, "I have contacted Dr.X and filled him in on the details of tonight's excursion.I can assure you the X-Men have contact with the best minds on genetic mutations and those minds will pour over the data we received." Lord Galen looks around the group until his eyes find the person he seeks. "Omega, I believe you should contact your police friend and let him know what has transpired." Omega nods at Galen. "I think contacting Wojo would be a good idea. And I think we should try to have a press conference as soon as possible. I know the timing sucks but we do need to try to keep the public on our side as much as possible." Galen nods an affirmative, "We need to let everyone know this is not meta's or mutant's fault. It is the fault of ill advised military minds." Poundage finishes the thought, "Someone should put out a statement to the press explaining what we discovered and that we are working at our fastest pace to find out anything and everything we can." The group pauses,the plan apparently set. "You may all go and do as you wish. I thank and appreciate you for all you have done. If any of you wish to stay here just speak up. I know you members of the X-Men need to get back. Tell Dr.X I would appreciate any help he and his associates can give in finding a cure for this. We will find the answer!" Rogue hovers up,picking up her team mates as Marvel Girl states, "We will be in contact soon.Good luck to all." The group of X-men fly up and out of the hangar as Probe questions, "Can you have the Striker take my friends and I out?" Maxi-Miss,Amazin' Grace and Zephyr mumble their agreement,being unable to fly themselves.Poundage steps over to the door then turns to speak to Imp. "Imp, I am going to go crash. I will get up around 8:am. Is that a good time to start on the recombinator?" She smiles a small smile and nods.Poundage steps out the door,heading for the sleeping quarters.
1:20-1:30 Poundage lies down and slowly falls asleep.
2:10-8:20 am Poundage slowly stirs,stretches then gets out of bed.He shuffles to the bathroom and begins a hot shower.The steam fogs the mirror and he swipes it clear to get a gaze at himself.He has a bit of a shadow creeping up his cheeks and covering his chin.He gives it a rub then goes up to the kitchen to dig out some breakfast.He feast on some eggs and sausage,a couple slices of toast.Once he has finished with breakfast he goes to the HQ and begins the work of disassembling the recombinator and moving the pieces into the trophy room.
8:20-8:30 am As he continues to work,Poundage asks, "Base, what is the mood like outdoors? Can you funnel the news radio station in for me? I would kind of like to hear what's going on." There is silence for a few seconds before the base replies. "...I'm not sure the mood...but the news has the government isolating the mountain base...it is unclear if the explosion was nuclear but half of the mountain is gone...the president held an emergency meeting with his cabinet and called some National Guard units to active duty...in Midville an emergency meeting has been called by the mayor and the city counsel...the Guardians have scheduled a news conference for 11 am,most national and some global media will be present...Virus news include 11 dead over night with virus like symptoms...the hospital can not estimate the number of inflicted in the hospital..." The mechanical voice stops,replaced with a Midvill news station.Poundage listens as he continues to disassemble the recombinater.
8:30-8:40 am Poundage continues to carefully disassemble the machine,while the news station plays.Between commercials the news continues,basically repeating the same thing he already knows.
8:40-8:50 am Poundage continues the disassembly,pieces set orderly around the trophy room.Through the radio station Poundage learns the government hasn't released an official cause for the explosion but the news reports unconfirmed rumors of meta-human involvement.Other reports say it was a terrorist attack but there are no solid facts as the government has taken control of the mountain.
8:50-9:00 am Poundage continues to disassemble the machine,wondering where Imp is.
9:00-9:10 am On yet another trip into the HQ to remove another piece of the dwindling machine,Poundage is surprised to find Afterburn standing,looking about at all the pieces.She glances up at him,her mouth forming a pretty smile. "Hey...I let my self in... Her wristbands clink in her hands as she flips them nervously. "Looks like you got a head start on this,want an extra hand while I wait on Imp?"
9:10-9:20 am Poundage replies,"Sure that's cool. Where is Imp? I thought she wanted to watch." The mechanical voice of the base answers, "...Imp is currently performing personal hygiene..." Afterburn looks around,a shiver going down her spine. "Eeewww,freaky..I'm not sure I'd want that thing watching my every move...I'm sure she'll be here soon then.Yesterday was a long day for everyone." She begins to help him disassemble the machine,pausing for long moments as she studies the pieces.After a while the door swishes open,revealing Omega.He nods at Poundage,then turns to Afterburn. "I'm honestly not sure what to make of Wojo's reaction to all of this--and I don't want to jump onto the paranoia bandwagon here, but we are definitely going to have to be careful about who we trust from here on out. I think we can still trust Wojo but he's going to be under increased scrutiny from here on out. We may have to abandon the idea of officially forming the new teams, at least for the time being." Afterburn has a serious look on her face, "Didn't go to well,hey? I'm sure he will come under more pressure as the effects of the virus continue.For now I guess we play it by ear." Omega watches the other two as they work,then questions. "Is Galen here? I'd like to talk with him about all of this..." The base replies, "...Lord Galen is resting..."
9:20-9:30 am Omega thinks for a moment and then says, "Well, I'm not going to bother Galen while he's trying to rest. I can talk to him later." Omega then turns to Afterburn and Poundage and asks, "Is there anything I can do to help out here?" Poundage looks up from his work, "How do you guys keep getting in here? I thought we had to get a Guardian to let us in. Hell, I could've gone home last night." The door swishes open again and Imp walks in with a yawn. "I okayed Omega and I left orders for Afterburn last night." She steps over to stand next to Afterburn. "Morning all...you got a good start on the transfer.Shouldn't take long to finish up,then Afterburn and I can did into that file." Curiosity gets the best of her and she pauses to study a piece of the recombinator. "B,synopsis on data..." She continues to fiddle with the piece as she listens. "...we have 24% of the file...most of the data is early test results and research from the government funded program...I am still running the formulas...some of the later files contain mention of the mutant they would seek to alter the original virus...I have detected some formulations and calculations that do not fit into the overall hypothesis...I continue to research..." Imp turns back to the others. "B,map irregularities by date...prepare a draft and send it to my port...O.K. guys,let's get down to business.Until me and my girl here get a look at that data,we really can't get anywhere.Galen should be up soon and we can figure out what we're doing."
9:30-9:40 am Imp begins to walk toward the door, :Come on,Afterburn,we can study in the computer lab.Less distractions for us and the boys." Afterburn gets to her feet and looks at Poundage. "I was very impressed with the way you handle things in the mountain yesterday.You seem to be a natural leader." She steps over to Omega and gives him a light kiss. "I'll see you soon..." The two women exit the room,Imp covering a giggle.
9:40-9:50 am Poundage looks up to reply to Afterburn but realizes she is already gone.Omega looks to Poundage and says, "Well, I'm feeling about as useless as tits on a bore hog." He thinks for a moment and then qualifies the statement, "Sorry, old Southern expression..." Omega thinks for a moment and then continues, "I think I'll go grab a cup of coffee and see what's on the news until Galen wakes up. You're welcome to join me if you like, Poundage." Poundage only nods his head before Omega leaves.Poundage glances at what remains of the machine and figures he has less than a half hour of work left.
9:50-10:00 am Poundage continues to finish disassembling the machine.Looking around the room the many pieces just don't seem to add up to the monstrous machine he carried here.
10:00-10:10 am Poundage spends a few minutes finishing the disassembly,then stands back to admire his handy work.He is wiping his hands when the door opens and Lord Galen walks in.
10:10-10:20 am Lord Galen nods in Poundage's direction,looking around at the pieces of machinery scattered around the room. "Good Morning,Poundage. Looks like the deconstruction is going well." Poundage finishes wiping his hands and replies. "Disassembly is finishd. I am now going to reassemble it." The mechanical voice of the base interrupts, "...Imp wished to study the machine in pieces before she re-assembled it..." Lord Galen moves over to a console and sits down. "Have you given any thought to what Wraith spoke of. Any ideas? I am trying to think what to do to help all meta-humans. I will be speaking to the media soon and trying to convey what we know as well as the fact that we are not to blame. I hope it doesn't fall upon deaf ears. We need all the help we can get." Poundage shrugs his shoulders, "What Wraith said means absolutely nothing to me. That was his past, this is our present. I've always had a saying. If you have one foot in the future and one foot in the past, you're pissing on today. Regardless of what happens, I still have a commitment to protect this city and do whatever I can to find a cure to this virus. By the way, Omega is looking for you." "Yea,I have spoken with him.I believe as Omega does that sides will be chosen soon." As he is finishing Vengeance walks into the room.Lord Galen turns to the console, "Base, any news?" The base replies, "...things reamin very much the same...the media await your press conference and the president is to speak later today...world wide,governments are considering the situation...most seem to be waiting to follow the U.S. lead...also Omega is about to go patrol and wishes any heroes who wish to join him,meet him outside..."
10:20-10:30 am Lord Galen replies to the base, "Tell Omega I must stay here and prepare for the press conference." He turns to Poundage, "Poundage,I understand your saying but what we must remember is that Wraith's past is our future and we are heading exactly in that direction. I agree we need to continue to protect the city and find a cure for the virus. But I also don't want to see mutants rounded up like so much cattle and locked in pens so that normal humans can glare at them and blame them for everything going wrong." Poundage replies quickly, "Remember, once Wraith came here, he changed the course of our timeline." Lord Galen turns to Vengeance, "Vengeance, what is your opinion? Anything you would like to add or offer?" Vengeance smiles, "What's going on guys? Did I miss anything?" Poundage smiles back at him then speaks to the base. "Base can you tell Imp the machine is dissassembled AND ready for her to check it out. I am going to go get a frosty beverage. Tell her I will be ready for reassembly whenever she is done checking it out." After a few seconds the three heroes her Imp's voice, "Thank you Poundage.Afterburn and I will be busy here for a while researching the data.I'll contact you when we finish..."
10:30-10:40 am Lord Galen turns to Poundage and continues the discussion about Wraith's timeline. "I understand Wraith's being here changed the timeline,but that doesn't change the fact that things are still heading in that direction." He then speaks to the base, "Base,were you able to determine to what vicinity the enemy escaped? It would be nice to find any survivors from the mountain base." There is a moment of silence before the base replies, "...due to the storm I was unable to track and departures...I was unable to track the heroes during the freak storm..." Lord Galen then turns back to the heroes. "Well, wish me luck guys, it's off to speak to our adoring public I go."Vengeance nods,then rubs his stomach. "I think I am starving.Now that Poundage has the machine disassembled.I am going to get some grub,if any of you would like to join me ."
10:40-11:10 am The three heroes leave the HQ,Poundage and Vengeance going to the dining area.Poundage grabs a quick drink while Vengeance gets some breakfast.The two sit and make small talk while they consume their respective orders,Poundage waiting for Imp's call.
11:10-11:20 am Poundage grabs another drink as Vengeance finishes his brunch.A screen on the wall flickers to life and the channels change quickly.The image stops on a picture showing Lord Galen standing at a podium,speaking into a microphone.The base asks, "...would you like to view the news conference?"
11:20-11:30 am Poundage glances at Vengeance then replies, "Why not?" Vengeance shrugs, "I guess I would like to see what he is going to say."He continues to eat as the two heroes listen to the broadcast. Lord Galen is answering a question, "I can't answer that question. We just don't know. We are doing everything we can to find a cure." Another hand flies into the air and another question is fired at him. "Are the Guardians capable of protecting this city? Can and will they abide by the decisions law enforcement is sure to put in place?" All of the reporters what in anticipation,many jotting notes.
11:30-11:40 am Poundage and Vengeance relax as they watch the news conference.Lord Galen rubs his chin before he answers, "The Guardians and their allies are still protecting the city. We are law abiding citizens. We will continue to work with law enforcement." The reporters are silent,some glancing questioningly at each other. One of them raises his hand before shouting his questions. "I'm not sure that answers the question.Will the Guardians be prepared to face these mutant terrorist when needed? Can you tell us if any of the Guardians or their allies are mutants and if those mutants can be trusted to fight their own kind."
11:40-11:50 am Poundage and Vengeance continue to watch the news conference.Lord Galen gives the reporter a serious look. "I trust every hero associated with the Guardians. We will attempt to handle any threat that comes our way be it mutant or otherwise. We must remember that this is not caused by mutants but by what has been done to mutants. We will not tolerate the persecution of mutants in any way. This problem is a by product of governmental and military means. We would hope that they will do their duty and help in the search and capture of these people and in finding a cure for the virus." The glare from Lord Galen quiets the group and after a few seconds Lord Galen steps away from the podium.He looks from reporter to reporter then begins to walk to the Striker I.Vengeance shakes his head,looking at Poundage. "He is going to start a human mutant war."
11:50 am-Noon Poundage and Vengeance watch as the TV shows Lord Galen walk to the Striker and the Striker takes off.The commentator begins a droning repetition of what Lord Galen just said.The reporter then comments that the situation is beginning to become a little clearer and will become even clearer after the cities news conference at 3 pm.The president is expected to speak at 8 pm and the citizens will have a better idea how the days to come will pass.
Noon-12:10 pm Wraith steps into the dining area,stepping over to grab some food.Vengeance looks over at Poundage, "That was interesting." Poundage replies, "Well that surely didn't go well." Wraith sits down with the two, "Morning fellows...what did I miss?"
12:10-12:20 pm Vengeance smiles at Wraith, "What's up Wraith? We just got done watching Galen's press conference.It was interesting." Wraith looks confused a moment then pulls out a small pocket computer.He taps a couple of buttons then takes a moment to scan the small screen.His eyes are serious and his head flies up and pans from one hero to the other. "Galen's news conference? Has the mayor spoken? The president?"
12:20-12:30 pm "Not yet,they will be speaking later.",Vengeance says as Wraith looks down at the small screen again. "Yea,we're just waiting for the speeches.",Poundage replies,watching as Vengeance glances at the small computer in Wraith's palm. "What is that you have there?" Wraith looks up and slightly turns the screen away from Vengeance's eyes. "It's just a small wireless so I can look at some files me and the base worked on last night.It isn't as powerful as the laptop Imp carries,but I can access the info I need to see.I stayed up last night jotting down the details I can remember about the beginning of the revolution.I figure if I wrote it all down,I may jog my memory.Then I'd be able to do..something...to affect this time line.I'm pretty sure in my past this day was the day of mourning...the prelude...at least until the President spoke.Most of the civilized nations just follow his lead..."
12:30-12:40 pm "What do you suggest we kill the President? That would be a going a little far don't you think? Maybe jam a satellite so people can not hear what the president has to say?" ,Vengeance asks loudly.Wraith rises from his seat,carrying his dishes to the sink. "Would even that change my history? We thought the attack on Colorado would change it and it didn't.We are in for a war...of that I have no doubt." ,he says,his shoulders slumping. "I don't know,but there has to be a way to break the cycle.To change history in one way might lead to a chain reaction for the better...or the worst.Any suggestions?" Wraith glances at the mini-screen, "First the city responds...then the president.The riots will begin soon after...the pot begins to boil..." The three fall silent for a moment before Poundage speaks. "Well I'm getting out of here for a little while. Base, let Imp know to contact me if she ever looks at this machine. Also ask her if I can have permission to call in to get in when she is done." The base replies, "...she will contact you when she is finished with the data...take her badge and you have permission to re-enter..." Poundage gives the other two men a nod,then steps out of the dining area.He walks the short hall to the hangar.He looks straight up the extending bridge,then leaps.He easily clears the park and lands lightly on the hospital roof.He pauses and looks out over empty streets.The city is quiet as he leaps eastward,bounding home.
12:40-12:50 pm Poundage easily makes it to his apartment without being seen.Inside the apartment he gets a clean set of clothes and begins to dress over his costume.His stomach growls as he finishes dressing and Joe locks the door behind him on his way out.
12:50-1:10 pm Poundage leaves his apartment and begins to walk through his neighborhood.His walk takes him eastward and he studies the area as he goes.Too his left is the low rent housing,the 'downtown' of the city.On the left side,the 'big city',tall buildings in small groups.Down on the corner he spots Angeleno's Restaurant' on the corner and decides to have Italian for lunch.
1:10-1:20 pm The restaurant is empty and a plain teenage girl comes up to take his order.He notices a slight air of nervousness around the girl so orders in a slow,calm voice.Joe watches out onto the empty street,awed by the emptiness.After a few minutes the same girl,a little more at ease,brings his lunch and leaves the bill.
1:20-3:10 pm Joe smiles at the teenage girl and slowly eats his lunch in the silent diner.After eating he leaves a generous tip and gives her a slight wave.Back out on he streets,he finds a secluded alley and peels off his regular clothes.Stashing the clothes,he leaps to the roof of the nearest building and gazing over the city.Nobody is out,at all and Poundage begins his patrol,leaping blocks away.He bounds around the city until the badge he is carrying beeps.Imp's voice is heard first, "The mayors press conference is just beginning...I'll patch it through." There is a second of silence,then a mature,male voice is heard. "Citizens and residents of Midville,good afternoon.I do not like intervening on your Saturday afternoon,but I have some news.Due to recent events I have been forced to take a few actions to protect the people of this city.First of all I would like to thank the Guardians and their friends for being so helpful.They have stayed on top of this whole situation and the city owes them it's gratitude." There is a pause as the mayor changes subjects. "The city health system is overwhelmed but I assure you that I have taken steps to alleviate the problem.The National Guard will be setting up area MASH units,please go to these MASH tents BEFORE you visit a clinic or hospital.I have also ordered the National Guard to call up some men for security detail to supplement the regular law enforcement.I would agree with the Guardians that now is the time for calm.I encourage you to continue your lives,but carefully.We will be receiving shipments of disposable gloves and mask that will be free for your use.These will be handed out at the Guard MASH tents,also." There is another pause as the man clears his throat.When he continues his voice is deep and serious. "Last nights terrorist attack in Colorado has given me and my advisors concern ,so until further notice I must place the city on a 9 pm curfew.All businesses are to close and only emergency and security personnel should be on the streets.Anyone else will be subject to search,detention and genetic scanning.We are in constant communication with Federal authorities and will do whatever we can to protect the citizens.I want to assure you that things will get better.Also do not be afraid to take any problems or questions you have to the nearest soldier,police officer or emergency personnel.As a city we shall come together and weather this storm.Thank you and I will keep you all informed as the situation changes...good afternoon."
3:10-3:20 pm Poundage leaps to a rooftop where he is not noticed. "Imp, I'm not appreciating the 'terrorist' coment. I know it is protocol, but I think the city, hell the country has a right to know. I want to tail the mayor and see if I can't have a word.Where is he?" He watches the empty streets and notices Omega,carrying Lord Galen,as the two patrol.Imp replies through the badge, "I'm not sure on the 'terrorist' tag,but the federal government consider the explosion a terrorist attack.The mayor is at the federal building and his conference was not open to the media.He is probably under heavy guard right now."
3:20-3:30 pm Poundage taps the badge, "I guess I can wait for the mayor. Eventually, he'll have to show his face. Get a chance to look at the machine yet?" Imp replies, "We have about another hour of research to do,then I'll get to the machine.Also,Lord Galen would like all heroes to meet here at the base.He would like to have a meeting concerning recent events."
3:30-3:40 pm Poundage gets a confused look on his face, "A meeting concerning recent events? Didn't we already do that? I guess let me know when he gets there and the meeting starts. I may just listen to it. I don't know if I want to be there." Imp replies, "Roger,I'll contact you when he is ready." Poundage takes a moment to gaze at the empty streets then continues his patrol.
3:40-4:50 pm Poundage continues his patrol over the empty streets.
4:50-5:00 pm Poundage taps the badge, "Base I need a secure line to you and you only." After confirmation from the base he continues, "What about the test with my blood? Did you find anything conclusive? If need be, I can come to the base and do the manual labor as you instruct me. I know Imp has been busy." There is a pause before the base replies, "Test on your specific blood continue...but there are some findings that require further study...there are aspects of your immune system I would like further study on..." Poundage trns and begins bounding toward the base.A couple of massive leaps have him at the lake edge and one more has him landing in the hangar of the base,the bridge closing behind him.He looks around the hangar to find Vengeance standing near the Striker.
5:00-5:10 pm Vengeance smiles, "Hey whats up?" Poundage walks over to him, "What's up?" The two men walk toward the door as Vengeance replies, "Looks like the arena is never going to open.Well I guess I will go find out what these ass puppets have to say." Poundage nods at him a moment then speaks to the base, "Base, you tell me where to go and what to do. I'll help you anyway I can." As the two men exit the hangar the base replies, "...I will need you in the medlab for a series of test...the process will take about two hours total though we can break it into smaller units if needed..." Vengeance enters the HQ as Poundage continues down the hall.He continues to the medlab,where he finds one of the beds transformed,machines poking out from every where."...please lie down on the bed..."
5:10-5:20 pm Poundage lies on the bed and waits as the many machines begin to hook themselves around around his body, "Base,let Imp know what I am doing. When the meeting starts, have the audio patched through. Also, be sure no one interrupts us and that no one hears our conversations. I have a lot to hide here. Finding out that I am an alien might freak some people out." The base replies, "...affirmative...Imp will monitor the the process,and will come down when she has the opportunity..."
5:20-5:30 pm Poundage lies comfortably,as the bed's small probes move about around his body.
5:30-5:40 pm The door to the medlab swishes open and Imp enters.The teen girl looks at Poundage,her dark eyes probing him. "How are you doing?I hope it isn't too uncomfortable." ,she comments as she begins to check the placement of a few of the small machines. "This is a good thing your doing,but your secret is safe." She takes the badge from his chest and returns it to hers,then turns to the read-outs on the console next to the bed. "I can't say your physiology will be the information we need to find a cure,but I am intrigued by it and it may give us some information we don't have."
5:40-5:50 pm "I told everyone I would do anything possible to help the city. Also, I had a question. I think with all the bad press the government is giving us, i.e. "terrorist attack", we should go to a National Enquirer type rag mag and release some footage of our attack. We should also include some of the info we have linking this doctor and general to the government. What do you think? The way the government is treating it is really pissing me off. The people have a right to know that the government could be the reason this virus exists." ,Poundage says as Imp studies the read outs. "I think the government classified the explosion after the attack,not the attack as a terrorist attack.I don't like some of the things they have done and I don't trust the government much right now,but we don't want to release to much of what we have.I figure the doc nor the general know how much info we have,but that we do have data.We can't let them know how much,one of the only advantages we have.And at the news conference yesterday we told the public the virus began with a government project." She taps a couple of buttons on the console quickly, "I need to get back for the meeting.I have it tapped to let you hear.I'll stop in before I go to the underground,meet Probe." She gives him a small wave as she leaves the room.
5:50-6:00 pm Vengeance steps into the lab,notices Poundage on a bed and nods to him.Vengeance lies down on an open bed,muttering. "Base,wake me up when the president is on.There is nothing to do now but wait and I will need some rest.If only the others would just shut the fuck up and rest themselves we would not get our asses kicked everytime.They are all about talk.When it comes to battle time the plan goes to shit and we waste a lot of time hearing Omega get sappy and say how much we should stick together,but he always has to be in control.Sorry base just have to vent.Wake me when the president talks." He rolls over as the base replies, "...understood..."
6:00-6:10 pm Poundagelistens as the base pipes in the meeting taking place upstairs. "Thank you for coming. This meeting has been called to unite all heroes under the Guardian banner. I respectfully ask Wraith and Vengeance to give me their opinions as well as Imp. Vengeance,I have but one question for you. What do you think you can do alone that we can't do as a team? I think if we all try to act individually we are doomed." Wraith looks up from his spot in the corner, "I agree that we need to unite the heroes,but I fear anything we do only leads to the same fate." Lord Galen looks around the room, "Imp, I would like to thank you for all you have done, Afterburn as well, but we need more. Vyra, I hope there are no hard feelings and even if there are I must ask you to forget them now. We must all work on the same team.Wraith,to you I want to say I place no blame. I also don't believe that destiny or timelines hold my fate. I hold my fate! I believe I can change whatever the future has in store for me. I believe that together we can defeat this virus,we can alter the timeline and the destiny of all humans, metas, and mutants. Omega,thank you for your respect. Now, lets get down to business.We have all been updated on the situation. What choices do we have in medical specialists? What do we all believe should be our next step?" Imp is the first to answer, "We need someone with medical training but someone who isn't connected to the government,the hospital.Does anyone have this kind of connection?" There is silence a moment before Omega answers, "For my part, I could try to use my connections with Wojo--but, I'm not really sure how to proceed with that. I'd like to be able to tell him that the teams have unified--and I think that we should then take that message to the public. If we can agree on this, I think we should have a press conference as soon as possible to keep people informaed about what's going on with us. That's just my opinion. I think the Knights of Humanity lead that Imp is following is probably the most viable lead we have at the moment. I think those of us not involved on the research end of this thing should form teams tonigt and continue to patrol the city as usual--let the public see that we are still out there, protecting them."
6:10-6:20 pm "I agree with Omega." Vyra injects. "We have to function as normal for a little while so as not to cause a panic." Lord Galen continues, "Wraith , Vengeance, Imp. If there are no objections I am accepting all heroes under the Guardian banner. The way I see it, if we dont work together there will be no Guardians as well. As for medical persons, Omega, what about that doctor you knew who has her own clinic? Or do we need someone more highly trained." Omega looks puzzled a moment. "I think you have me mixed up with someone else.I don't know any doctor at a clinic." "Maybe Doctor X knows someone." ,Galen suggest. Imp speaks next, "Vyra,you and that other hero...um...Flare?...didn't you guys know a doctor that owned her own clinic?" Lord Galen looks at her, "Imp keep working on that lead you have. Lets begin breaking down patrolling teams. I work from 9 to 5 during the day so I will need to team up with someone along those lines. Omega, Vyra, what about your teams?" Omega replies to Galen, "Well, I'm pretty much self-employed at the moment and money isn't really an issue with me so I can be available whenever I am needed--either during the day or at night." Afterburn speaks from her spot in the corner. "I believe we all can work out the details to a patrolling schedule,around our personal lives,but I think we should keep things along the present lines.The Protectors,Sentinels and Guardians can remain groups,but with coordination through the Guardians and the base here.I only bring it up because there may be certain members that feel more comfortable with the people they have become familiar with." She glances at Omega,looks at the floor and blushes.
6:20-6:30 pm "I had almost forgotten about her..." ,Vyra says. "It seems so long ago now. Her name is Jill, I believe, and yes, I can seek her out. She and Flare were ... close." Lord Galen looks over at Afterburn, "I dont think now is the time to let personal feelings interfere. I'm not here to make or break romances, I'm here to stop a threat and a virus." She looks at her feet as Omega thinks for a moment and then says, "I certainly think the teams should mesh well together, but I think we should all consider ourselves as Guardians now. We need to be unified and while sub-teams for patroling is certainly appropriate, I don't want to see previous allegiances turn into internal power struggles within a new team. As Lord Galen says, we are unified under one banner now and we should stand united." Omega walks over to Afterburn and places his hand lightly on her back, "It's going to be fine," he tells her softly. "Trust me." She looks up at him and smiles.He then turns to Lord Galen and suggests, "How about this, Galen? We split up--one group goes on patrol; another to try to locate Vyra's doctor friend. I think it would be best to approach the doctor in person about helping us and the remainder continues to work on research? Perhaps Vyra, Specter and I could try to track down the doctor and the remaining metas head out on patrol or work on the research angle?" Omega looks to Afterburn and adds, "You could go with a mission team as well if you're finished helping Imp with research. Well, it's really up to you, Galen. How would you like to divide up the group? Patrol group is the one most likely to run into trouble out there, so it should probably have the most powerful members?" Vyra interrupts, "As far as the Sentinals go, it is only myself and Maxi-Miss who remain. I am sure she will agree to the disbanding of the Sentinels and us joining a more powerful force. And as for myself, I will be honored to join such noble heroes. What was said in yesterday's past is now history and nothing more." Omega adds, "Also, I think it might be wise to take advantage of the media members still gathered at the hospital. We've told the public about the plans for the Protectors teams and now I think we should let them know that those plans have changed. With your permission, I'd like to speak to the public. I have some other things I want to say which I hope will engender trust among the populace. Also, while we're out, I want to try to check in with Wojo again--as Imp suggested, we should definitely try to use governmental connections to our advantage." Omega checks the time, "Hey, when is it that the president is supposed to speak? Maybe the base could arrange it so that we all are able to hear his address over our communications network?" The base replies, "...I can do that...and the president speaks at 8 pm..." Lord Galen looks around the room then asks, "Wraith,would you care to join me in a patrol?" Wraith looks up,surprised. "Um...certainly..." Imp stands up, "Well,I need to get to the underground and the mutants.I'll return soon and get back to the research."
6:30-6:40 pm Vyra addresses the group and says, "I believe I can recall where her practice is." Specter gets to his feet, "I'll go with you,I need to get out..." Imp walks toward the door, "I have to check something then I'm off to meet Probe and the mutants." Lord Galen looks to Wraith and says, "C'mon,lets go. If we find no trouble we can come back here at 8 and listen to the pres speak." Wraith is silent,his head bowed.He raises the staff to his chest a moment and stares at it. "Yes...let's go,my powers have returned..." His eyes remain dark as he steps toward the door.The two guardians leave the cafeteria,Lord Galen a step behind Wraith.In the corner,Afterburn gets to her feet.She steps over to Omega,her hands twisting her arm bands in small circles. "I guess that leaves me and you.We hitting the streets or checking in with Wojo?"
6:40-6:50 pm Omega thinks for a moment, then replies to Afterburn, "Well, the others seem to have most of the other bases covered so let's go speak with Wojo and maybe patrol a bit. We'll keep the comm network open and the scanner turned on, so if any of the others run into trouble we'll be able to go help them out." She smiles up at him,takes his hand and the two leave.Vyra nods at Specter and asks, "Can you fly?" He gives her a smile and begins to step lightly into the air,'walking' upward. "The ever amazing Specter!It's not as fast as flying but nothing short of a forcefield can keep me out.But I won't be able to keep up,so maybe you carry me." The video shuts down as the meeting ends and Imp steps into the medlab.She gives him a smile and leans over a console to check some of the recent readings. "Things are going well...shouldn't be much longer." She looks up into his eyes, "I have to go speak with Probe and the other mutants.I should be back shortly,anything you want me to relay to them?"
6:50-7:00 pm "Just let them know that if they need anything to call me. Also, my actual identity has a substanial amount of money. Tell them that once all this is past, I will hook them up with a place to stay." ,Poundage replies.Imp nods and checks a couple of the couplings. "Thats really generous of you...but for some of us...them...money,a place to stay...won't solve the problems that drove them into the underground." Poundage watches her fiddle with the small attachments, "By the way anything positive coming out of this testing yet? Or do we have to wait until it is done?" She steps over to a console and taps a couple of buttons. "Well for anything concrete we will need to wait to finish,then cross reference that data with that from the mountain base.But your physiology is fascinating,the ability it shows in retrieving energy from even the smallest sources.Explains your strength,somewhat..." She taps a button and steps to the door. "I should be back by the time the test complete...then we can listen to the president.Oh and thanks again for your help today,I'll rebuild the recombinator piece by piece until I understand it's inner workings." She waves a small good-bye and the door swishes shut behind her.
7:00-7:10 pm Poundage lies in the medlab as the small instruments shift position on his skin.
7:20-7:30 pm Poundage lies in the bed relaxing,when the small attachments disengage and disappear back into the bed. "...testing completed...I have found your physiology quite different from the humans and believe the data will be part of the cure to the virus..." ,the base says in a mechanical voice.
7:20-7:30 pm Poundage lies in the bed relaxing,when the small attachments disengage and disappear back into the bed. "...testing completed...I have found your physiology quite different from the humans and believe the data will be part of the cure to the virus..." ,the base says in a mechanical voice.
7:30-7:40 pm "Thank you very much." ,Poundage says as he rolls over to get some rest. "Base,wake me and Vengeance when the press conference starts. I know I don't have much time, but I may need the rest." "...affirmative..." ,the base replies as the lights dim in the medlab.
8:00 pm Turn 1,Phase 41 Poundage slowly wakes to the base speaking. "...arise...the president is about to speak... A screen on one of the consoles blinks into service and he sees the presidential logo on a blue wall.The president is seen walking up to the podium,his face serious.
8:00 pm Turn 1,Phase (25-18) Poundage slowly wakes to the base speaking. "...arise...the president is about to speak... A screen on one of the consoles blinks into service and he sees the presidential logo on a blue wall.The president is seen walking up to the podium,his face serious.
8:00 pm Turn 1,Phases(17-3) "Base give me a feed through the badge. I will patrol to make sure everything is ok on the streets." ,Vengeance says as he rises from the bed.He leaves the medlab as Poundage continues to watch the press conference.
8:00 pm Phase(3-(-3)) Poundage continues to watch the view screen as the president speaks. "My fellow Americans,I come before you in troubled times.I have spent the day in consultation with my advisors and leaders from around the world.We now face a threat like none the human race has faced before.The speed with which this virus is spreading is unprecedented in our history.The health care system is overwhelmed and the federal government must take action now,without delay.I have ordered the National Guard to mobilize immediately and they will be setting up military hospitals all around the country to ease the flood of victims.I have ordered the military to highest alert and units will be arriving in most cities in the next few hours to help local authorities with any security concerns." He pauses as he clears his throat then begins again. "Now we get to the difficult part..."
8:00-8:05 pm,turn 1 Phase(43) Poundage continues to watch the president's speech. "...After careful consideration and much debate I have concluded that the virus is a threat to national well-being and security.There have been many incidents of civil unrest involving regular citizens and mutants.There has been property damage and injuries in these melees.For this reason I must now declare martial law,nation-wide.There will be a 9 pm curfew for every citizen,exempting emergency units.Any one caught in the streets after this time can and will be detained and questioned.Military units will be stationed in each city to maintain order and assist local law enforcement personnel." He again pauses and uses a tissue to wipe the beads of sweat from his brow. "To help contain the spread of the virus I have invoked my Executive Authority to enact the Mutant Registration Act..."
8:05 pm,turn 1 Phase(43)-8:10 pm The president continues, "...my advisors assure me that the spread of this virus can be slowed by limiting physical contact with the mutant population.I know this will not eliminate the threat but at this point,slowing the spread will buy time to find a cure.For this reason any known mutant is required to register with their nearest Law Enforcement Agency.Failure to do so will be considered a crime and Law Enforcement agencies will be given the power to arrest and detain those that do not register.I am asking for the cooperation of every mutant,and any meta that is unsure,to make this a peaceful operation.I have put every resource available to this nation into finding a cure to this scourge to our society.This governmetn is doing everything in it's power to protect it's citizens and will keep it's citizens informed of any progress that is made." The screen slowly fades to black and Poundage speaks to the base, "Looks like the second coming of Hitler, good thing I am not a mutant. By the way, what exactly should I classify as on this planet. An Alien, I presume?" The base replies, "...yes,you would be classified as an alien and a meta..."
8:10-8:20 pm With a touch of anger Poundage replies, "Well I'm not registering." The base is quiet for a long time then answers, "At this point in time I do not think the city has the ability to apprehend you...but I am unable to determine if the Military has the ability..."
8:10-8:20 pm Poundage lies silently in the medlab,stewing at the speech he has just heard.
8:30-8:40 pm "If I stay in, they cannot catch me. Problem is that if I go outside as Poundage, I have to use the ground sometimes to travel. By the way, the military can't stop me either." ,Poundage replies as he gets out of the bed. "Tell the others I will return.", he says as he leaves the medlab.He takes the elevator to the first level.He walks into the hangar to find Vyra and Specter.On the floor just inside the door a woman huddles over Imp's body.From above Omega and Lord Galen fly down the bridge and land near the other heroes.The woman looks up, "GET HER TO THE MEDLAB,NOW! I HAVE A COMPLETE SYSTEM SHUT DOWN!" She looks at the heroes,fear showing in her face. "Does she have the virus?"
8:40-8:50 pm "Imp!" ,Vyra cries as Lord Galen rushes over and picks up Imp's limp body. "Base prepare medlab for emergency patient,complete system shutdown." ,he orders as he rushes from the hangar. "... Yes ... please hurry ... hurry ... I need her here NOW! ... error ... errrorrr ... correction,correction ... medlab prepared ..." ,the base replies,the mechanical voice reaching a crescendo before returning to the monotone everyone was used too. Poundage looks at the doctor and answers her question, "I believe she does have the virus." Omega watches Galen run off with Imp's limp body in his arms. Omega shakes his head, sadly. "It's getting worse," he mutters. "Our friends and teammates sick or dying from the Legacy Virus...the government registering mutants, detaining them like criminals...the world has gone insane." Everyone in the hangar rushes after Lord Galen,Specter being the last.He pauses a long moment,staring into Omega's eyes.He hangs his head then dashes through the door.Omega exhales heavily and then follows after Galen, more uncertain than ever about what any of them should--or could--do. He knew that mutant registration would only be the beginning. Soon, they would be coming for all of them--all the metas. He wondered how long before even the Guardians went from being public heroes to public enemies of the first degree. The powers that be needed a scapegoat, and they had found themselves a very convenient one. Unfortunately, the blame was being shifted to the very people who were, most likely, the only hope humanity had left. Striding into the med lab, Omega asks, "What's the prognosis? How bad? Is ... is there anything further that can be done for her?" From a seat at one of the consoles the strange female replies quickly, "She's beginning to stabilize.The readings are strange,I had assumed that this was virus related.In part it is,but the virus hasn't deteriorated her genetic code enough to cause a system shut down." She concentrates on the monitor as her fingers fly about the keyboard.The gathered group waits in silence,the only sound is the small beeps and clangs as the little probes move about Imp's body.The base interrupts the silence, "... I have an incoming message from Afterburn ..." Afterburn's voice is heard next,light and easy. "Hey guys,can someone give a lady a hand?I'm in the park and not sure my speed would allow me to run across the water to enter the base." Suddenly Imp begins to shake,then flail her arms.Her eyes flutter as she moans. "oooo .... mmm ... mutant ... hhhmmm ... Men ... Men ... Men ... mmm ..." The strange woman stares at the monitor, "What the hell? She should be conscious from everything I see here..."
8:50-9:00 pm Omega responds through the communications system, "Stand by, Afterburn." He then tells the others, "Imp is pretty much the brains of the group but Afterburn is a close second. Maybe she can help shed some light on what's going on with Imp." The doctor looks up from her seat at the console and shoots Omega a look before returning to the video screen. "I'm going to go get her--we'll be right back." ,Omega says and sprints out of the medlab.Lord Galen snaps, "Base, Is there a reason for her to be unconscious? Can you correct the problem? We need to find out what she is babbling about. Can you determine what has caused her shutdown?" The base quickly replies, "... there is no physical ailment causing the shutdown ... I AM DOING MY BEST ... correction,correction ... am in the process of trying to determine the cause ..." Lord Galen notices the doctor staring at him, "By the way Dr. Welcome to our humble abode. Have you come to help or just to see what you can see?" Her eyes narrow as she turns back to the monitor in front of her. "This is not the time for snide remarks.Perhaps if you would have let me care for the first girl this whole situation would have been altered.But I am here to do what I can to save lives,someone has to." Specter looks at Lord Galen,his voice filled with anger. "Enough of this ... it's obvious.The feds have done something to her,tried to apprehend her,drugged her or something.She's trying to say men,officers,soldiers.I can't take this waiting around ... let's take the fight to them." Suddenly the door to the melab opens and a gray blur zooms to the bedside and comes to a stop.It is Afterburn and she quickly begins to study the girl.She mumbles,"... OHImp ...".A few seconds later Omega walks into the room and looks around at the gathered heroes,taking particular notice of Specter.Afterburn studies the readings on the screen over the bed,rips the bands from her wrist and hurls them into a corner."Her vital signs are nominal,molecular cohesion at the genetic level with-in parameters ... what is the problem?" The doctor is quick to reply, "I'm still sorting through the data ... but brain activity,her alpha waves are peaking.Whatever is going on the girl is 'thinking',her subconscious is hyper-active right now."
9:00-9:20 pm Lord Galen quickly turns toward Specter, "Specter. We know nothing of the sort. We don't need a major war on our hands." Gruffly,Specter replies, "Don't you see we already have a full scale war on our hands! The president has declared war on mutants and Imp is just the first casualty!" Lord Galen's look softens, "Stand down please." The two heroes lock gazes for a few seconds before Specter drops his eyes. Lord Galen then turns and finds the doctor at her console. "And as for you doctor, I dont think allowing you to care for the first victim would really have made any difference. Don't go trying to make yourself the smart one here. Do you know the answers to our problem? I dont think so. We have the smartest computer and some of the smartest people known working on this. If you know something they don't, spit it out. All I need from you is to help my comerades. Thats all. Alright everyone, sorry for the outburst but I've had just about enough! We are not taking the fight to anyone. We are protectors. I want all suggestions and ideas anyone has." He looks around the room when the door opens and Vengeance steps in,a look of surprise on his face.Omega rubs his chin. “Thinking…subconscious…of course.” Omega continues. “What Imp was trying to say before. She wasn’t trying to say ‘men’ at all. Remember, she managed to spit out the word ‘mutant’ and Imp was with the mutant group just prior to returning to Guardian Base.” Omega continues, “Imp’s physical readings are normal—but, aside from the strains already being placed upon her by the Legacy Virus, it is not her body that is being attacked, it is her mind. As I said, Imp was with the mutant group prior to returning to the base. And who do we know who is telepathic? I fear the conclusion here is inescapable. Not ‘men.’ MenTOR.” Omega continues, “It appears that perhaps her meeting with the mutants did not go as well as we hoped it would. Computer, does Guardian Base have the ability to shield against telepathic attacks or manipulation?” The base replies, ... negaitive ... I have no defenses against mental or psionic attack ..." Omega pulls back his visor and looks to Galen. Bluish flames flicker in Omega’s eyes. “The pieces of the puzzle begin to fit together all too well, my friend. The President’s speech. The weaponry we found on the street. This apparent attack against Imp. Sides are already being chosen. I fear we have been thinking of all this in the wrong terms. We have been trying to PREVENT the future which Wraith warned us about from coming to pass. What we failed to realize is that it was ALREADY too late. Tomorrow is here. The apocalypse is upon us.” "Someone may need to check on the mutants. That is the last place she went. Anyone in on going to check on them. We will have to be careful and watch our backs." Poundage turns to Galen, "I'm wondering if I assemble a few to go check on the Mutants, can we take a badge for quick escape if needed. Also, It may be a good idea to open the base as infrequent as possible." “Good ideas, Poundage.” Omega says.Lord Galen nods his agreement, "Poundage I agree with your Ideas. Take a badge and see what you can find out. Keep us posted and please be careful." Omega looks around the room and notes that Wraith still hasn’t returned to the base. “Where’s Wraith?” Omega asks. “If this is indeed his ‘past’ coming to pass then he should know more about what’s going on than any of us.” Omega looks to Imp, the blue flames surrounding his body seeming to darken and intensify. “The base has no defense against telepathy." Omega continues to speak softly, in a voice which almost seems not to be his at all as the blue flames continue to flicker around him. “Telepathy. A paranormal sense which allows direct communication with other minds and has a range dependant upon…” The flames subside and Omega seems himself once more. “Range,” he repeats. “All the meta powers I’ve encountered, including my own, have some type of limitation where range is concerned. Perhaps if we moved Imp away from the city? Out of the range of Mentor’s abilities?” Omega thinks for a moment, “The Strikers. Galen, what if we placed Imp on board the Striker and piloted it or programmed it to fly in a random direction, away from Midville? If this IS Mentor, then Imp should get better once she’s out of range. If not then it at least tells us that my theory is wrong but, either way, I think the ideas that Poundage proposed are still good ones. How should we break this down, guys? The more I think about it, the more I think maybe we shouldn't leave Imp alone on board the Striker and we're probably going to need the brains up there with her or here in the base.” From the teen girl's side Afterburn quickly says, "I'm going with her." Omega steps over and places his hand on Afterburn's shoulder, "We must protect Imp. The Omega Force tried to tell me something about her before, something important. But I didn't understand it then." Omega goes on, again speaking in a voice which almost seems to belong to another: "The one known as Imp, finding a cure to the Lecacy Virus is but one way to help her. The ribbons of fate twist oddly about that one. She will also need the chains to be broken, the connections rent asunder, she is in mortal danger even with out the virus. She is prey for a hunter,her past stalks her. Be strong,the solution is with in your grasp." Omega then seems to regain himself and when he speaks again, it is his familiar voice which she hears, "That girl is our only hope. Now, more than ever, I'm convinced that Imp is the key. There is much I still don't understand but I do know that we have to protect her--we have to help her--no matter what." Lord Galen walks over to Imp's beside his eyes locked on the limp girl. "Omega, I have opened another Guardian base in New York. I could take her there. It has a medlab and computer just as this one. Perhaps that could help and keep us all connected." He lightly lays a hand on the young girls shoulder and his voice drops in volume, "Imp, if you can hear me, we need you, We will do all we can." Vyra looks to Imp and asks desperately, "Will she be alright?" The doctor glances at Lord Galen then at Vyra "Physically she is and should be fine.But something is going in her brain,her mind.What is happening in there?" Lord Galen whispers, "I wish I knew the answers." His head hangs and he begins to slowly step toward the door,looking for some privacy.His path is blocked when Wraith steps in,Paladin right behind him.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."
11:30-11:40 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.
2:00-9:00 am Poundage slowly wakes from a deep sleep.It takes a moment to focus but he soon realizes he remains at the New York base.
9:00-9:10 am Poundage wakes slowly starts to search the base for Imp.He finds he stretched out over two chairs in the research lab.She snores lightly,her laptop cuddled under one arm.As he leaves the research lab,Poundage runs into a strange woman in the hall.She smiles at him then steps over to him.
9:10-9:20 am "I am, Poundage, sworn protector of all that is good and enemy of all that is bad. I have heard of you through our mutual friend, Vengeance. Would you let everyone know when they wake that I have returned to Midville." ,Poundage says then walks away from her.He finds the small HQ and has the base teleport him back to the Midville base. Once there he says, "Base, I would like to get on with this testing." The base quickly answers, "... I am beginning preparations in the medlab,please go there ..." Poundage goes to elevator then to the medlab.Kitty remains on one of the beds,another already has a couple of scanners sticking out at odd angles. "... please lies down ..."
9:20-9:30 am Poundage lies down on the bed as he comments. "Be easy on me base." The probes begin to attach themselves as Poundage gets comfortable.
9:30-9:40 am Poundage lies back,listening to the random clicks and hums as the probes move about,poking and prodding.
9:40-9:50 am Poundage gets comfortable and asks, "Base, can you give me a news feed in here for test time? I appreciate it." A video screen slides open on the one wall and the heroes quiet to watch the news. The screen shows a picture from a helicopter hovering a few miles from a large crater.Along the horizon small dots move back and forth,military helicopters flying all around the crater.The voice over speaking is slightly hushed, "... the site is quareentined and under heavy military protection.The group claiming responsibility call themselves the Mutant Liberation Front and claim their actions were in response to the government actions.Military units around the country are on high alert and there have been reports of the capture of mutant members of the organization.Government sources deny these claims but also state the proper federal authorities are doing everything they can to find the perpetrators." The screen switches to a grainy picture of a column of smoke drifting into a dark sky. "We can see the smoke as it billowed from the area just minutes after the explosion.Investigators right now say the explosion apparently happened inside the structure but say it will be a few days before they are able to be more concrete with an answer.Last night rumors ran around that witnesses report seeing a spot of light streak toward the structure just moments before the explosion.But after some searching today this reporter has been unable to find any witnesses to report this.On a brighter note there are confirmed reports that one of the Guardian aircraft was also in the area last night after the explosion and unconfirmed reports say that there were some Guardians investigating the area and a meeting between them and government personnel." The picture changes to the live broadcast of the reporters face,his hair whipping in the breeze of the helicopter blades. "This,of course,is an evolving story and I will report anything new as the story develops."
9:50-10:00 am The video screen now shows a news room and the male anchor announces, "The security advisor has reported a few minor skirmishes with mutant groups but would elaborate no further,claiming that the military was transitioning smoothly into their role of protection of public property and public concerns.Medical stations are now in every city,within minutes from most Americans.Anyone at risk from the virus should go to one of these medical stations before going to the hospital.The hospitals will be serving the most serious patients only."
10:00-10:10 am Poundage continues to watch the morning news,as it now moves on to the normal morning fluff.
10:10-10:20 pm Poundage silently waits for the testing to end.After a while the probes retract and the base says, "... I am finished with the personal testing ... you may feel woozy or light headed for a small amount of time ..."
10:20-10:30 am Poundage decides to relax there,flipping through the channels on Sunday morning TV.
10:30-10:40 am Poundage rises and leaves the base,heading for home.
10:40-10:50 am Poundage arrives home and quickly washes up,changes clothes.Soon,Joe is out the door,ready to get some lunch.
11:00-11:10 am Joe begins to walk toward the center of town to find some lunch.
11:10-11:20 am Joe finds a suitable restaraunt and sits to have some lunch.
11:20-11:30 am As he eats his lunch,Joe buys the USA Today and begins to read it.The front section contains articles rehashing the recent days and events leading up to the declaration of martial law.It then begins to discuss the near future,asking mutants to be registered,reporting huge numbers of viral infections and the international community gathering together to discuss the problems.
11:30-11:40 am Joe finished his lunch and debates on what else to do with his day.
11:40-11:50 am Joe returns to his apartment and changes into costume.He heads out on patrol,reminding himself to call the base on the results of the test on his blood.
11:50-Noon Poundage continues his patrol over the city,dialing his cel-phone.He calls the base,asking for any information on the blood test.The base replies, "...I expect the complete results will not be available for a couple of hours but Imp is also looking at the data..."
3:10-3:20 pm As he patrols,Poundage hears his celphone beep and answers it.On the other end he hears Imp, "Hey ... um ... I have finished with the test on the blood sample.This is really quite amazing,I believe I can use some of the info gained in curing the virus.But I am a little curious ... are you aware of any others like you being on Earth? The blood sample you gave me has some rather curious similarities to the virus."
