Romanov turned to the Countess and bowed slightly. As a guest in your home my behaviour has done me a disservice. I will make more than adequate remuneration for the damages, Countess. Of more concern is Barzinis behaviour; if I was not certain I would sense such a thing I would say that she was possessed. He looked at the other LoRDs in turn. I hope you agree that I gave her more than a fair chance to see the error of her ways.
A mental link with the zombies relayed the outside conversation to Romanov. The Priest is here. Pistol has gone to kill him. He gestured to Iron Dragon and Dire Wolf. Their armour clattered as they turned to face him. Follow her. Make sure the Priest dies at her hand.
The hulking zombies bowed and looked at their master for more orders. Then bring me the head of Alicia Barzini.
Yessss, General, they said in unison, voices like a crypt door creaking open.
The two zombie enforcers marched out of the villa. Leaping into the sky like missiles.
Romanov looked at the black fragments of the table mingling with the red rust of Pistols impotent bullets.
If I may, I suggest we move to the parlour, said Romanov. Adam, you said you had some designs you wished us to see?
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
Erebus had watched the lady's performance with amusement. No wonder her soul smelt so rancid. It probably wasn't her own. He rose from the table and followed Romanov into the parlour. It seemed that things were about to get interesting.
@Dante EU - Union Roleplayer and Altisis Victim
The Militia: Union RP Supergroup - www.themilitia.org.uk
"I do, a few for line taps, excelling Vanguard security procedures on this isle, a design for a form of assasin robot, and of course, the design for a concealed base, once we have securely taken this isle," he said with a smile, putting the briefcase on the table. "Of course, if Ms. Barizini's actions are slightly more pressing right now, there is a squad of Battle Drones and a single suit on the island if you, by some extroidinary twist of fate, need help executing that brat."
Romanov poured himself a brandy from a decanter before sitting down. Good, Adam. I wondered how long it would take for you to as the Americans say step up to the plate.
If you are agreeable I would like you to prepare to take control of the weapons we have here and Bukus troops. When our plan is set in motion, they will be our first line of defence against any interference. Someone with combat experience as well as your technical expertise should be at their head. Just make sure to do it in a way that you are not recognised.
He turned to the vampire. Countess, you must endure playing Bukus counsel for a little longer yet. Try to resist killing his man Tutu, I understand he was Borealis way into the weapons deal and his death would arose suspicion.
Erebus you seem to have your affairs in order. We will meet again when Barzini and this Priest are dealt with.
XV, you dont need my agreement to kill Pistol, she left us no option. Just make sure it is she that kills the Priest, she might prove more use to us in death.
He finished his drink and stood. Now, if you will excuse me, I must take measures to ensure what is about to transpire is fed to the world as we would wish it. I will then return to the Nasri villa and prepare them for the next step. He bowed his head. Good night, Lords.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
The afternoon sun was fierce, the air hot and heavy, when Romanov appeared outside Countess Bathorys villa a week after the LoRDs last meeting had concluded. As his feathered guardians look to their perches he walked to the front door holding a black, silk drawstring bag in his hand.
Inside, the Countess was sitting at the head of a new table laden with her usual hospitality.
Romanov bowed his head slightly. Good afternoon, Countess, and thank you for your gracious offer to host this meeting which I wish were not necessary. I hope you dont mind my early arrival as there is a matter I wish to discuss with you in private.
He opened the black bag and removed Alicia Barzinis head. The expression of pain had been replaced with a blank stillness and the once ragged scar was just a pale line on her forehead. He placed it on the table. I see no reason why Barzini should not continue to attend our conferences. If for no other reason that to serve as a warning for any who would be fool enough to consider derailing our efforts.
He looked at the Countess. And now to business. He turned to the door. Enter.
Dire Wolf, the hulking, dark-skinned zombie lurched into the room pulling another figure along by a chain. The second figure, a well-built European man in a pale cotton suit, had a metal cage over his head. His hands were also in the cage, raised up on either side of the cage. The thin bars of the cage pierced his flesh where they were screwed to the bones of his skull, wrists and hands. The man snarled, resisted as much as the trap would allow, as he flashed his fangs.
Romanov looked at the Countess, darkness in his eyes. Although their mistress is dead, Barzinis men still had a vital role to play as agent provocateurs in our endeavours. Despite Alicias petulant outburst, they were about to play their most significant part yet. That part has been somewhat hampered by them being turned into
vampires. I must remind you, Countess, that no part of our plan involved transforming these islands with all their rich potential into a desolate nation of parasites.
The zombie forced the caged vampire to his knees. If this is your doing, I demand an explanation. If, however, as I suspect, this is the action of one of your court, the responsibility is yours to make sure one with such ambition takes his rightful place at our table. He stroked Barzinis lush, dark hair. That place being next to the lady Pistol.
His eyes were cold steel. You understand?
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
"I understand completly...", Elizabeth answered with a toned down blood red rage in her eyes. Her hand trembling until the glass filled with blood she was holding in her hand shattered.
"I gave order to one of my generals to build my power base further. But that did not include turning everyone of Barzini's hoods into a vampire."
"As you already stated... and we already discussed once... a country, or world, consisting of vampires only is not my goal or wish. As it would be a form of self-destruction. Cause if there are no humans, where do we feed upon."
"I cannot destroy him though, as he is somehow linked to the source of all vampires he is faithful but immune. Rest assured that the matter will be dealt with."
Her attention swifted to Alicia Barzinis head... "It's a shame of such a beautiful woman." Elizabeth picked up the head and kissed the lips. "My sources showed all that happened. The priest knows too much. We must take precautions."
"As for this young nightbreed..." She clapped her hands and Izumi appeared in the door. "Destroy this mistake!"
Izumi bowed deep "Hai, immortal mistress." In the same movement he drew a silver/steel ninjato from under his clothing.
- The Italian Job: The Godfather Returns #1151
Beginner - Encounter a renewed age for the Mook and the Family when Emile Marcone escapes from the Zig!
- Along Came a... Bug!? #528482
Average - A new race of aliens arrives on Earth. And Vanguard has you investigate them!
- The Court of the Blood Countess: The Rise of the Blood Countess #3805
Advanced - Go back in time and witness the birth of a vampire. Follow her to key moments in her life in order to stop her! A story of intrigue, drama and horror! Blood & Violence... not recommend to solo!
A slow knock at the door preceded the Primogen's entrance. He would not stay long as he was intruding on a private meeting. He had heard Romanov's heated words from the crypt beneath the villa, the Primogen felt small obligation to correct this oversight.
"It would seem there is a slight disapproval toward my actions." Said the Primogen, before offering Romanov and the Countess a nod in greeting.
"However, before you attempt to chastise me for my actions, I will tell you that only eight of Barzini's men have been turned. No more. Indeed any more, as the esteemed Romanov has pointed out, and the island would become a nation of 'parasites'. These eight were to be part of a spy network dotted about the Liberty Isles. A little psychic link makes them my eyes and ears. Whatever they see is known to me and thus anything of note would be reported to you. You see? A little initiative goes along way." The Primogen smiled almost sadonically.
"So Countess, you wanted an expansion of your power base, now you have it. In fact, the only reason I am here at this meeting at all is because of this little chap." He said, patting the caged vampire on the shoulder. He smiled at Izumi. The caged vampire let out yelp before dropping dead.
"The 'One-point-psychic-exploding-heart-technique'. No mess. No fuss" He said peering at the dead vampire, before returning his grinning gaze to Romanov and the Countess.
"Meh, he was of no use to me after such a playful mutilation." The grin dropped off his face, leaving his expression cold. "The rest of Barzini's men are interred, unharmed, at a nearby crypt. Do with them as you wish."
----- Union's finest underachiever -----
Farewell CITY of HEROES
The First, the Last, the One.
Union: @ominousvoice2059
A heavy thud knocked open the doors to the meeting room, revealling the commanding presence of Dr. Herman Oswald between the door frame. Wearing his commando green civilian uniform he was no less recognisable as the intimidating force of nature known as The Hatesman.
"What the **** did you do?" he opened with a maniac's grin on his lips, raising the corner of his mouth to reveal battle ravage dental work. It seemed Alicia's death amused him just enough that he was unable to contain himself.
Oswald strode forwards to stop at the table where the three and a head were located. He glanced at Primogen with disgust as he then turned to gaze down on to Alicia's lifeless head.
"She's dead again? While deliciously poetic, it's also entirely outrageous!" he said slamming the table so hard Alicia's head rolled over to one side. "You petty gentry fools... Why the **** did you have kill the *****? This had better be REALLY good, but I doubt it entirely from the two of you." he growled, jabbing the air at the Countess and Romanov from both hands like an over theatrical Pro-Wrestler.
"Out with it!"
It takes Chaos to move the world to Action.
"Alicia decided to step out of our little group. And this was bound to be the result. Even then... we didn't do this.", Elizabeth said with a cold voice waving her hand to the head on the table.
- The Italian Job: The Godfather Returns #1151
Beginner - Encounter a renewed age for the Mook and the Family when Emile Marcone escapes from the Zig!
- Along Came a... Bug!? #528482
Average - A new race of aliens arrives on Earth. And Vanguard has you investigate them!
- The Court of the Blood Countess: The Rise of the Blood Countess #3805
Advanced - Go back in time and witness the birth of a vampire. Follow her to key moments in her life in order to stop her! A story of intrigue, drama and horror! Blood & Violence... not recommend to solo!
Romanov gently placed Alicias head upright with his left hand before looking at Hatesman for a few silent seconds. The bombastic fool was best used as a hand grenade, but this one had the unfortunate habit of returning after it had destroyed its target.
The Countess is correct. After a uncivilised outburst, much like the one you have just made, Alicia issued demands and threats that were not hers to make. She elected to leave our alliance and face the Priest, and as such gave up any claim to protection from ourselves. She sealed her own fate, Dr Oswald.
He moved around the table towards Hatesman. And you, sir, have no right to make demands when you have fulfilled none of your obligations to this alliance. Perhaps you would be wise to hold your tongue before you lose it
along with your head.
He smiled, half hoping the brute would take the bate and resort to violence. The smooth running of the LoRDs plans were only one of the reasons it suited Romanov for Hatesman to die. But we have lost the Lady Pistol so perhaps your return is fortuitous after all. But if you will grant me a moment there is still the matter at had to address.
He stared at Primogen, allowing him the faintest glimpse of the ancient evil that empowered him. Your actions are an outrage and if did not have the Countess and the Court to hide behind your punishment would be swift and final. A network of spies you say? Barzinis men were already spies serving the interests of the LoRDs. And now they serve you? By what authority?
He took a breath. Still calm. All attention on him. If you wish to make a play for the Countess throne that is your affair, I have neither the time or inclination to play a part in the theatrical intrigues of your dead race. But you will not do it on these islands. You will not stand in the way of my plans or you will soon realise you are little more than a fly in a thunderstorm.
He looked at Dire Wolf. The giant zombie prodded the lifeless vampires face through the bars like a child that had broken its new toy. He returned to Primogen. Bring the other seven here. Alive. They are the property of the LoRDs and we will decide their fate.
You are dismissed.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
A small smirk struggled to contain itself on the Primogens face. The smirk gave way to a fit of laughter that seemed to come from everywhere.
"Young Romanov, you're not a very good judge of character are you. I have no interest in supplanting the Countess. Like so many before you, you have made the mistake of underestimating me. Any threats you make are profoundly meaningless." He said, chuckling intermittently.
"As for the fledglings, they're in the crypt beneath this villa. I'm sure you'll have as much fun with them as you did with this one." he said tapping the corpse of the dead vampire with his foot.
He continued to laugh. He knew he was untouchable. He hadn't survived twelve millenia without good reason. He was the first vampire to walk the earth. His power was immeasureable. As a fellow progenitor, he respected the Countess. He didn't know how much she actually knew of him. She was one of the few courteous enough to keep thier mind closed. One less voice in his head. If he wanted he could find out, but the resepect he held for her prevented such an intrusion.
He looked upon her as a father would an estranged daughter. She had forged a mighty power base within the Rogue Isles. He wanted to ensure her survival. Her indiscriminate approach to siring offspring had ensured her bloodline permeated the entire planet. She had what was denied to him. He wouldn't begrudge it her. In fact he would ensure what happened to his own bloodline, didn't happen to hers. If this meant assisting in the LoRDs plans then so be it. For the briefest of moments he let her, and only her, know of his affection.
He viewed Romanov with amusement. He had encountered so many like him in his time. Indeed Romanov had great power at his disposal but with great power comes great ego. He foresaw that Romanov would eventually be taken down a peg or two. By his hand or someone elses, it didn't matter.
Whatever motives the Primogen had were not particularly detrimental to the LoRDs. However, whatever they were they would remain unknown to all but the Primogen.
He turned toward the door, still chuckling maniacally.
"Fly in a thunderstorm. That's a good one." His laughter continued to echo after he left.
((EDIT: Corrected a few typos))
----- Union's finest underachiever -----
Farewell CITY of HEROES
The First, the Last, the One.
Union: @ominousvoice2059
Hatesman smirked with amusement at Romanov, "I like that guy."
"And you... you want to take my head too? Somehow I doubt that." he grinned belittlingly as he moved to take a seat. "You wouldn't be saying that if your spies were competent enough to keep tabs on my recent activities."
"I've been active on the Islands, but I'm a busy man and I have a lot of commitments back on the mainland. Aren't you six..." he paused to recount, subtracting Alicia from the alliance "...five able to get on without me?"
Somehow Oswald already knew the answer to that one.
It takes Chaos to move the world to Action.
Romanov sat down. As a point of clarification, Dr Oswald, I warned that you would lose your head not that I would take it. And a bluff so early in the game is not a worthy opening gambit as all of us in this room know that your activities on these islands began shortly before you burst through the door.
He poured himself a glass of wine. The question as to whether we can achieve our aims without you is irrelevant. We joined together as seven and, for myself with two superstitious races in my heritage, I would rather we continued as such. The question remains as to whether you can keep your temper and ego in check long enough for you to be one of them.
He raised his glass and nodded to the Countess before taking a drink. Replacing Alicia should be done quickly. Her men are already tied up in our machinations so perhaps we should look to whoever is strong and ruthless enough to take her place as leader of The Gang.
He studied the deep red vintage for a few heartbeats. You like the vampire, Doctor? He entertains me as well but the ramblings of a fool soon lose their appeal. At least the Countess has been alerted to the traitor in her midst. For now let him laugh and be happy in his fantasies.
He turned to his zombie guard. Go to the crypt. Kill them all.
The zombie drew a heavy iron sword and let out a blood chilling wail calling the rest of his horde from the shadows.
Romanov glanced at the Countess. Countess, my behaviour as a guest in your home is unworthy of me. But I am afraid I must insist.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
Elizabeth had been very thoughtfully and silent while listening to the conversation. She too was never a big fan of the man who calls himself Hatesman. Still it would be better to await and hear him out. She had her dealings with warlords like him, and some where able to be surprisingly handy in several occasions.
As for Primogen... She had done her research on him from the day she first met him. He had power, yes... And his claim to be connected to the source of all vampires was proven true. That was her sole reason of having him close. He could give her knowledge. Knowledge of the vampire race and all eons before her time. But she found out that he had his weaknesses for sure. He was far from unbeatable... although he himself would never acknowledge it.
Giving him a task as one of her generals gave her a way of directing him and feeding his ego. Therefore blinding the Primogen from all events around her. The ancient saying 'Keep you're friends close, but you're enemies closer.' was something she had experience with from old.
She knew what he was capable off, and would be two steps ahead of him if he would try to out step those bounds.
She nodded back to Romanov... "You are forgiven Alex. And I am sure as are you that someone will step up and take Alicia's place as head of the Gang. Someone always does."
"I will send word to wards the Primogen that henceforth he will handle the affairs of night breed around this islands using the underlings I have placed only. Or he will go back to Cap Au Diable immediately. The reason he is here is that I can't keep a perfect communication with all of them while I entertain the black oaf.", she raised her hand to sign Izumi. And he came rushing to her with a new glass.
"Although the neophytes he brought with him are of use. They are part of my personal guard if all goes wrong with this plan. I am sure you have you're 'escape routes' planned too Alex.", she raised her newly filled glass with a wicked smile.
"We seem to think alike in many ways..."
"Now... as long as we are waiting for the others to arrive... I don't have any spies close to the Militia. Can you assure me they are not yet on our tail. Has the Priest informed them of our business here?"
- The Italian Job: The Godfather Returns #1151
Beginner - Encounter a renewed age for the Mook and the Family when Emile Marcone escapes from the Zig!
- Along Came a... Bug!? #528482
Average - A new race of aliens arrives on Earth. And Vanguard has you investigate them!
- The Court of the Blood Countess: The Rise of the Blood Countess #3805
Advanced - Go back in time and witness the birth of a vampire. Follow her to key moments in her life in order to stop her! A story of intrigue, drama and horror! Blood & Violence... not recommend to solo!
He raised an eyebrow, and leaned back in one of the chairs, "Hmph. I'm doing better than I thought, if you think I'm that incompetent."
He sat forwards and clasped his hands, "For starters, you'll find that a prominent military base is infiltrated by dedicated TLF operatives and a few of General Buku's men that have been turned into flip-switch mind-slaves thanks to one of my comrades... We're poised to take the pre-made staging area whenever it becomes necessary and safe to do so. Slitting the throat of the wolf in its gentle slumber."
"Furthermore, my flagship submarine, the Leviathan is on standby. Undetectable by sonar and fitted with OS4 (that's Super Smart Surface to Surface) missiles for pin-point destruction of enemy infrastructure. It's ready to cripple the mainland and sink Buku's fleet all in a days work. Not to mention a squad of my latests and greatest Crey topping Super-Soldiers to compliment its load out."
"I've also had ORACLE decrypt and track the island's information network... Countess, your phone bill is quite the sight for sore eyes I have to say" he grinned without much pause "and that will allow us to gather vital intel before anyone else."
"So. Is that enough to convince you? For now at least? I do admittedly have the plans to convert the Island's freedom fighters through bribery, blackmail and brain washing with me." he said tapping his shiny bald skull.
Oswald looked all too pleased with himself as he leant back in his chair, commanding the kind of smugness that could do with a good slapping to rectify.
"Admittedly though, I haven't done anything physically in all of this and if that's what you're trying to point out, you're quite correct."
It takes Chaos to move the world to Action.
It seems I did underestimate you, Dr Oswald. Your incompetence truly knows no bounds, said Romanov resisting the urge to show any emotion.
He waited for the last death rattles to quieten from the crypt below. I am already advising the leaders of the United Freedom Coalition and have several sleeper agents in place. You would be wise to keep your distance. Im sure that the Countess would respectfully make the same request in regard to Buku and his faction.
But you being in position to sink Bukus fleet is something I must applaud you on. Of course, there is the slight matter of it also being our fleet. Borealis took time and expense to get those weapons here and when Buku falls they will be ours to defend and control the island. So if you could hold off on blowing them up I would appreciate it.
He paused, sensing the zombie horde leave the villa and take up their positions in the darkness.
But now for the positives, he said. ORACLE will be an asset to us but I suggest she focuses on communications to the Vanguard base on Black Rock and any mention of the Liberty Islands worldwide. And Vanguard should be where you concentrate your infiltration efforts, as they are the one variable in the conquest equation. Independently you have managed to make progress towards goals we have already achieved. But the fact that a small portion of those efforts escaped my notice shows that they were not without merit. I just hope that now you are agreeable to using them for our common good.
He stood and walked towards Bathory. Countess, I cannot give you the assurances you ask for. There is certainly no evidence that the Militia are aware of anything worth their notice here but the Priest has been in contact with several of their members since his swift departure, so for now we must assume they know what he knows.
He looked around the table. When Erebes and Adam arrive we will discuss how we should prepare to divert or repel their interest.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
"I would suggest quarantining the island," came the whispering voice of Lord Erebus as he was shown into the room. His voice took on the tone of some shocked newsreader. "Some form of biological outbreak, no doubt an agent released by the evil Buku to further suppress the angry masses calling for his head. The World Health Authority have declared the islands a health risk and are advising people not to come within the island state's borders."
He took a seat at the table, folding his robes of state around him. "I have something that may do such a job with minimal risk to us or the island."
@Dante EU - Union Roleplayer and Altisis Victim
The Militia: Union RP Supergroup - www.themilitia.org.uk
Romanov listened to Erebus and nodded. I think you are right, Lord Erebus. I think we all would have preferred to be less vulgar in our methods, but with the Priests intervention we must accept that the genie is out of the bottle. Do what you will and I will take care of how it is presented to the world.
He looked at Bathory. If that is acceptable to you, Countess? Im sure Erebus will stop short of poisoning your entourages watering hole.
He placed his hands face down on the table. And there is perhaps a way we can use the Priest to our advantage. Some might say that he committed an act of murder in taking care of poor Alicia. If the media found out that Barzini was a mercenary in Bukus employ then some may jump to the conclusion that an American hero committed an atrocity in what is already a volatile situation. Perhaps it will make other heroes doubt themselves and buy us more time.
Any thoughts?
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
"Placing papers in Buku's personal and military files placing Barzini as a mercenary would be child's play for me.", Elizabeth replies.
"I also have no problems with an outbreak like that... If Erebus can control its effects. There are some contacts that are carefully placed we need unharmed in any way. Is there an antidote available?"
She looked carefully at everyone... "Although we don't really need the army of Hatesman here at this point I have to state that I am still glad it is in position. I am always in favor of having several backup plans. And the ability to wipe these armies out by modern weapons is a good failsafe backup plan if all else fails."
"Also...", and this counts for us three mostly Erebus and Alex... I recall that the Priest is very good at localizing mystical forces. We have to shield our energies. Us three together will be like a beacon of power for anyone who actually knows where to look."
- The Italian Job: The Godfather Returns #1151
Beginner - Encounter a renewed age for the Mook and the Family when Emile Marcone escapes from the Zig!
- Along Came a... Bug!? #528482
Average - A new race of aliens arrives on Earth. And Vanguard has you investigate them!
- The Court of the Blood Countess: The Rise of the Blood Countess #3805
Advanced - Go back in time and witness the birth of a vampire. Follow her to key moments in her life in order to stop her! A story of intrigue, drama and horror! Blood & Violence... not recommend to solo!
At that moment, Adam burst in, a wide grin on his face and an insane glimmer in his eye, quite divorced from his usual cold, logical gaze.
"Why, hello! So sorry I'm late, but I really have wonderful, wonderful news. Can you guess?" He grinned.
"Oh, alright..," he said, with hardly a pause "I've finished the prototype. The assasin drone is, effectively, finished. I need to boot an applicable OS onto it and add high grade wiring to the force pads, but..."
He laughed.
"Oh, look at it yourselves... It's quite brilliant, I assure you"
With that, a small, skeletal humanoid robot flickered into view next to Adam, its head a featureless slate letting out an ominous buzz that was only now audible.
"I'm going to get three of these ready for when the Milita arrives," he grinned "Well, what do you think?"
"Unnecessary." Oswald butted in, trying to dampen Adam's sickeningly joyous mood. "I would sooner deal with any threats in person. Crush their skulls in my own fist. Adam, my comrade, be sure that if any of these 'droids are sent into the field against our enemies that they're accompanied by a sufficient human presence. You're also authorised to use ORACLE as best you see fit, have her give them the edge..."
He turned his gaze back to Romanov, "As for you Alex. If you were under my command, I would have killed you for insulting my better judgement by now." he snapped before casually grabbing an apple from the table spread.
"Like the Countess said, every Plan needs a Plan B... I certainly don't expect everyone on these islands to switch leaders so fluently. A man cornered and in fear of his attacker gets desperate, it's better to have the knife to your victims throat before he can reach for his rifle, wouldn't you agree?"
He then looked back at Adam and raised a cupped hand, figuratively giving him the floor. "However, Adam please, continue before I next divulge our Anti-Vanguard operations."
It takes Chaos to move the world to Action.
Romanov smiled. Hatesman seemed to be insane, but there was a grain of genius that could perhaps be nurtured. Or perhaps he should provoke the oaf into violence so he could be done with him once and for all.
Believe me, Dr Oswald, were I under your command death would be as welcome as it was inevitable.
He observed Hatesman; a wolf assessing a bellowing stag. Better judgement? The same judgement that has left you a monstrous parody of a man and a wanted criminal? He shook his head, convincing himself that losing two LoRDs in a matter of days would be foolhardy. I tire of battles of wits with unarmed opponents. I suggest we retire for the night and reconvene when we have more to bring to the table.
He stood and walked around the table to Adam and his robot. The inventors pride and pleasure in his creation was refreshing. It also revealed a weakness. Im impressed, Adam, I can see now why Pistol thought you worthy of joining us. I already have an application in mind for your creation. If it is as efficient and deadly as it appears, it will be quite suitable. I will send coordinates to you tomorrow. We will meet and discuss things. One creator to another, yes?
Finally he walked over to the Countess. Took her hand in his and kissed it. And you, Countess, there are matters begun in the Etoile Islands that we have yet to resolve. I would be honoured if you would join me for dinner tonight. I assure you, not all of us generals are as uncouth and abhorrent as Buku.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
"I would very much like that Alex. We shouldn't forget that plots like this has to have some fun and relaxation in it...", she said while smiling to him. Gently touching his hand before pulling it back and returning to business.
"I take it we have nothing more to discuss for tonight. At least I have none... I would like to see you all again next week, same time, same place." Elizabeth looked to see if everyone still had any question or remarks. "And lets keep our eyes and ears open for possible hero attacks."
"I bid you all a good night."
- The Italian Job: The Godfather Returns #1151
Beginner - Encounter a renewed age for the Mook and the Family when Emile Marcone escapes from the Zig!
- Along Came a... Bug!? #528482
Average - A new race of aliens arrives on Earth. And Vanguard has you investigate them!
- The Court of the Blood Countess: The Rise of the Blood Countess #3805
Advanced - Go back in time and witness the birth of a vampire. Follow her to key moments in her life in order to stop her! A story of intrigue, drama and horror! Blood & Violence... not recommend to solo!
Romanov bowed his head slightly. Goodnight.
He turned to the Countess. I will send transport for you in two hours if that is acceptable.
He left the room. The air outside was cooler now as the afternoon sun gave way to the evening.
He took his cellphone from the inside pocket of his immaculately tailored suit and dialled Xenia, be ready to present all the intelligence we have on the Priest in 45 minutes. Assemble the department heads. I want an immediate and permanent solution before the end of the night.
@Romanov
Nadja Romanov, Lily Pink, Little Death - The Cadre
Estoque, Bastinado, Spidermonkey, Chic Doyle - The Militia
Miss Teen, Dead Reckoner, Dee Dee Diablo, Kaneko
Soaring high above the villa, shrouded by the nights embrace, the chiropteran behemoth form of the ancient Primogen circled like a vulture. Peering down upon the commotion with sight that cut through the darkness like a razor, he couldn't help but chuckle at the prospect of a handful of thugs taking on a small horde of creatures that will get back up no matter what you throw at them. Though he did admire their fortitude in the face of those little horrors.
The Countess had requested the Primogen's presence in the Liberty Isles. He had brought with him a handful of the Courts neophytes. These vampires were young but their enthusiasm to gain favour in the Court would prove useful. 'Officially' the Primogen and the others were on bodyguard duty. This may well have been true for the fledglings, however the Primogen suspected his presence may be required for another reason.
He watched amused as the servants of Romanov, Báthory and Alicia goaded eachother. His merriment was halted by the mention of the Priests name. The emergence of the Priest would be a highly interesting development. He pondered to himself. It appeared his presence was justified.
((EDIT: Corrected the zombie ownership))
----- Union's finest underachiever -----
Farewell CITY of HEROES
The First, the Last, the One.
Union: @ominousvoice2059