<Unionverse: The Crooked Wand> All He Left Us...
By
Forse,
Posted on: 2010-06-08 04:52 in Roleplaying
(( OOC Forse question , having seen your Stonegaze gizmo working in game , it is bascially a radar for magic , so does this mean Aria Chem beauty creams will make normal humans detect up as magic, or is it only effecting the magical frequency the Stonegaze uses ? I ask as i have two toons that would notice if normal humans looked magical . ))
((They would indeed be sensed as 'magic'. However as has been explored before, their dimensions magical energy is sufficiently different to Paragonverses, so it is up to the people involved whether these people are detected by them or not. Yes, wheels within wheels, from inception of the Forseverse I've thought of ways to slot them in that gives people the opportunity to avoid/ignore the verse without breaking character.
It is however (as Alexia mentioned) playing havoc with Stonegaze's 'radar' ability.))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
(( well played sir , execellent plotage , i will have to think of how to respond ))
<Part 1: A Little Lass' Communicator>
Theo sat on the steps of the apartment block, reading the newspaper quietly; and sneakily puffing on his cigarette each time he thought safe from the concerned gaze of Issa working by the window above. Smoke drifted its way casually up into the air, and he shuffled the pages to another story. Advert, opinion piece, advert again, seemed the papers were filled with nothing but upstart journalistic rants and adverts for face-creams he didnt want. He moved the paper aside, and looked down into the eyes of a little girl staring back up at him. She couldnt have been any older than six or seven. Alice was confident for her age however, and familiar to Theo.
Mister Crocodile! How did you know I was here? Alice asked, placing her hands on her hips and doing her best to look annoyed. I was VERY sneaky, like a Draggin.
Drakkin. Never mind. I caught your scent already Alice, how are you? Theo smiled slightly. He couldnt help but feel slightly attached to the little one, she was so eager to maintain a friendship with the Hero. At least now she had stopped following him into danger and instead settled on joining him every time he sat outside. Im sad. Because my friend Rossy is gone and I dont know where he is, Alice looked down into her lap and cuddled a backpack she carried around with her religiously, I miss him.
Im sure your imaginary friendll be back soon, Theo smirked; Rossy was trouble and probably the source of all the trouble Alice got into. Maybe if he was gone she was finally growing up. I found something though Mister Crocodile, to remember him by. Alice started rooting around in her backpack, and produced a mobile phone that had been converted into some form of walkie-talkie. Across the underside was arcane runic inscriptions, and it stank terribly of garbage. Theo wrinkled his snout and pulled a face, Alice, whered you get that?
Alleyway. Its not far. I found it when you took Mrs Crocodile out to that dinner with the guitar and asked her to be Mrs Crocodile. I like it. Its shiny and sometimes it makes noises. But I cant make it work like Rossy used to.
Theo frowned and looked closely at the communicator. It was definitely native to his dimension, and this was troubling. Had he been naive enough to disregard everything Alice had said as just childish fantasy? It would explain some things at least...
Can I have that Alice? I think I might know where Rossy is... But Im sorry Alice, Im so very sorry... Theos heart broke as he remembered the contents of the video footage from within Zephyr. The image of a dying man that collapsed against the door helplessly after being interrogated by his superiors still stuck in his mind. The way he slumped himself against that door and pulled himself in to desperately stay out of the Artifact Stones affects. And then how he slowly dissolved away to nothing, breaking down before his own eyes. Alice handed Theo the communicator and patted his arm gently, It doesnt matter Mister Crocodile. You have it if its important. Im a big girl now, I dont need Rossy anyway. Theo wasnt usually one for apologies, the word sorry held too much meaning to be bandied about so willingly by people.
Im sorry Alice - I dont think Rossys coming back.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<In-game Roundup for Saturday>
Theo turned up at the statue in possession of the communicator her recieved from Alice. Not happy he was immediately set upon by Leannon, who had recovered a sample of the Aria Chem face cream for him. Theo did his best to explain that there wasn't anything he could see that was dangerous about having the 'Stone powdered up and put into creams, but coupled with the communicator it proved the Mage Class were making incursions into Paragon.
From the Heroes that were gathered many calls of support were raised, and in general an attitude of "Bring them on" was felt. Their over-confidence may yet be their undoing however if they believe themselves that over-powered compared to the Mages. Theo cautioned them not to be so rash (in no uncertain terms) as well as not to talk about this at all to the youngest member of the team - Mar, and headed off to deliver the sample. The communicator he was more unsure about revealling just yet.
Mar's evening was ruined later when his mother abruptly called him back from the statue fun - and Mar wasn't afraid of making that known in a grumpy, teenaged way. She had no doubt heard about the cream, and had decided she needed Mar home, safe, NOW. This was a slight over-reaction, but understandably so. Mar was oblivious to everything, and although Ellie almost let it slip, she was warned off so by Annette.
Unknown to Mar, Annette tracked him on his way home and ensured the young Trollkin/Mage was safe.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Sunday>
((This time just a very short one, will only add these when relevant information is revealled in case anyone wants to reference it later)).
Toppa was at the statue, and met Rik again along with Delphinia - and he gave them a demonstration of how un-effectual the cream was at doing anything.
He spoke with Annette and Shanna, and the three came to the conclusion that the creams were likely designed as 'chaff' - magical static for Toppa's Stonegaze device that stopped him being able to scan for the mages as easily if they operated in Paragon City.
There was also a throw-away comment about this not being a "DOOM" situation. If Toppa's people were aiming for that, something would have exploded already Toppa pointed out, potentially a mall. However, having people running around with magical energy on them must have some purpose beyond chaff... surely?
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 2 - The Five of Wands>
There was a deathly hush around the table. Theo had called the meeting a day early, and had not yet revealed to anyone what he had discovered. Through his planning, Mar was spending the afternoon out training with Annette and Jacob, leaving him out of this development was for his own good. Theo glanced around the table, Tam was already looking bored and agitated by being dragged out of the gym early and Alexia just sat with a furrowed brow, solemnly watching Theo’s every breath. Theo tossed the communicator into the centre of the table.
“Where did you get this Theodun?” Alexia snapped, reaching for the communicator and turning it over, “This isn’t something we should even be seeing in Paragon.”
“It’s possible it too was thrown into a destruction portal,” Toppa began, removing his glasses and motioning for the communicator to be passed to him, “Though it still has some residual charge, and reeks of garbage... Theo, where DID you find this?”
“It was found in a friggin’ garbage pile. I found where; there’s a cleanly cut open dumpster, and a missing section of fire escape. Which means...”
“Something was pulled through an abrupt portal appearance and this was left behind.” Toppa said with enthusiasm, passing the communicator back to Alexia.
“Yes, which means...”
“That it’s likely the Mage Class had an operative in Paragon, which matches up with the evidence on Stonegaze, so they are covering up operatives in the city.” Alexia added, interrupting Theo and placing the communicator back on the table again, rune side down.
“Yes, which...”
“And then it’s probably the owner of this is that’s the man in the video, because an abrupt portal would only be used against an enemy, no way they’d risk chopping an operative in half.” Tam chirped up, grinning proudly at his little interruption adding to the melee of voices.
“Yeah, and the creams...”
“And those beauty creams are meant to stop us picking up equipment like this! That’s brilliant, in a very scary way hon,” Issa added quickly.
“Will ONE of you friggin’ well let me say one friggin’ sentence without friggin’ interrupting after two friggin’ words?” Theo snapped back at them all, ushering in a sudden silence. Issa got up and moved to behind Theo, placing a hand gently on each shoulder, “I think Theo means that...”
“I KNOW what I mean.” Theo snapped back at her, and shrugged her off his shoulders, “Issa, please, I can fricken’ well speak for myself. The guy in the video is Rossy, Alice’s so called imaginary friend. She found the radio in the alley opposite the restaurant on the evening of our engagement. Which means Rossy was spying on us – all of us probably. Using the creams now means more could be out there, but we don’t know that for sure.”
The group shared a grim glance between each other, and Toppa stared down at the communicator, “Did your friend make any attempt to make this work? I’d say it’s probably a beacon for the abrupt portal.”
“No,” Theo answered, “She tried but it doesn’t work, might be damaged from the damp. We need it working though, get it reverse engineered so we can make our own portal to the source, and use it as proof that Zephyr’s doing stuff in Paragon, and that they pose an actual risk. Then we can get Hero help...” Theo paused and took a paper napkin from his pocket, unfolded it slowly and wrapped it tightly around the communicator. Toppa watched with mild interest at the careful folds Theo put in place, completely sealing the device up. “In case it can still transmit... can’t work now without contact to someone’s skin. Like I was saying, Hero’s helping with this and the Stonegaze trouble with those creams.”
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Tuesday>
Whilst Mar was at the statue he made reference to Alexia changing his curfew rules to include the weekends again, he must be home by 11pm at night. He thought this was totally unfair, however Annette and Jacob talked him around. He did say he liked sneaking out to the rooftop of the apartment block to watch the city by night.
He also was completely unaware of what has been going on, and showed no interest in finding out.
---------
Aria Chem's work steps up from today. A new advert boasts that "The hottest thing on beauty editor's lips this season is Arcanohydrocelide", stating that their new creams use "Ancient techniques from South America" coupled with "Advanced techno-magical developments in beauty and fashion" to bring about beauty products that give you "the glow".
There's also a classy sepia advert "For Homme and For Femme... Reach Mi. Touch Mi." The two "Mi" scent products (Touch and Reach) are now on sale.
Most of it is mindless, distracting dribble.
----------
((OOC Clarification - The two missions for this arc are still pencilled in for 26th and 3rd. Once the arcs go up I'll keep them up for at least a couple more days and but the Arc IDs in the roundup posts.))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Thursday>
Toppa was at the statue. He had been speaking with the FDA about the products, apparently he's not the only one (understandable considering their magical nature). However he was assured the products are safe, met all safety standards, and had no reason to be recalled or investigated. He also took note however of the suspicious dates on the patents/test papers and the company's age.
This suggested that Aria Chem is either very rushed, or a rebranding. Ms Rech, the owner, has a history of failed cosmetic companies and ventures - yet she's hitting the big time now with this brand.
Toppa also said that since they've done nothing illegal, he can't go in and bust them just yet. So he's sending in Issa, on a factory tour this Saturday. Just to see if she can dig anything up from within the plant.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 2a - Promise I'll Be Kind>
Chimera smiled slightly and leant forwards, My dear, what a pleasure to finally see you. He motioned to his side and Mia Rech stepped away from him, turned her back and disappeared out of the room. Chimera turned his back to his target, and smiled broadly again. I hear youve been snooping around my facility.
His gaze had been transfixed upon an attractive woman in her mid twenties, tall, slender, brunette and wearing a brown and gold uniform. She had gone under the pseudonym Paparazzi for some time, a mutant with the ability to create illusions accompanied by sudden bursts of light. She was currently bound by the wrists and ankles against a large board. It was crude, yet rendered her completely immobile.
Whatre you planning then CREEP? Poisoning the city? Turning people like you? What?
Oh my dear, dear, dear, Chimera turned away and lived up to his role as villain; this is the point where I tell you my plans whilst you think about how to escape.
Something like that, just without the sarcasm. And its Paparazzi, remember that name. Paparazzi flashed bright for a second and vanished from sight. Chimeras left eyebrow rose ever so slightly, and he swung for the gap. A crunch confirmed she was still there. If youre intent on being difficult my dear, we shall simply move on to the next order of business.
Paparazzi reappeared slowly, and spat out blood. For a few seconds her mind swam with drowsiness, that wasnt just a punch he had thrown, there was more behind it. Howd you work it out?
All the staff uses our products. And I need...
Guess that was a slip up... Paparazzi interrupted with a smirk and started to struggle against her bindings again. Chimera was impressed by her insistence upon fighting back against her fate. It was somewhat endearing to him. In another world, my dear, youd have my respect. Unfortunately Ive no interest in keeping you alive to keep snooping around. The wrong people might find out Im here. Paparazzi just stayed silent, and continued to try to struggle from the bindings. Chimera was keeping perfectly still opposite her now, watching her fight on.
Who knows you are here? asked Chimera thoughtfully.
Everyone does.
Would you be able to escape from here?
Yes.
If I was to lethally wound you, would you med-port away?
Of course.
Thank you for your answers. Chimera turned and crossed the room. He was now behind the board, and only his footsteps could be heard. They echoed on, and on, and on, the room was clearly quite large and open. All Paparazzi could see was a blank wall now, but she heard Chimera open a latch and cross behind something, his footsteps were now muffled. This was her time to try escaping. Im watching you through a personal video monitor. Up and to your left my dear. Youre currently tied up at the back of a makeshift shooting range that Ive put in place for our hired security teams. They needed the practice. Im not going to tell them youre there. Does that scare you?
No! Paparazzi declared defiantly and spat in the direction of the camera. Inside her head however she was now frantic and wholly consumed with trying to loosen herself, but it was fruitless. As the lactic acid built up in her arms she was losing the strength in them and could no longer struggle as well.
Ive managed to get my hands on one of those wonderful signal blockers for your little med-port device. They really are good value if you have the right connections. If you are shot, you will not be able to get to hospital. Does that scare you?
NO!! She declared again, pulling her shoulders off the board and putting her whole weight into the effort.
Theyve never killed before. Theyre not even trained to... just, need the practice. They wont ever know if you just use your powers to hide yourself when youre shot...
Shut up, SHUT UP, SHUT UP!
They will be let inside in a moment. Paparazzi knew it was hopeless at this stage. She still fought on, growing more and more desperate with her attempts to struggle free. But now she glowed brightly and disappeared suddenly, she just couldnt...
Later, on his way back to his office, Mia Rech stopped Chimera and demanded answers. She asked why the guards were not told that there was a person at the end of the range. Why he told the heroine that the guards were civilians and...
Would the guards have shot her on instruction... the Trollkin ones you keep as bodyguards?
Of course Ms Rech, they are completely loyal to the Mage Class cause. If they were told to shoot someone, they would do so.
So why the games?
Paparazzi. Civilian name Claire Wilmot, aged twenty five. Her powers manifested in the aftermath of a police enquiry into her father. Seems daddy was harassed so badly for protection money by the Marcone family that he took a gun and tried to fight back. Only he wasnt trained, and he was firing very indiscriminately. Got himself shot by police, psych-evaluation claims even if he did survive he wouldnt have been able to be charged due to his mental health. She swore never to let another innocent get pushed to that point, to ruin their own lives due to the evil manipulations of others.
But, Chimera, I still dont understand...
I wanted her to die thinking she was a total failure.
Why?
Because I grew bored with that attitude.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Saturday>
Toppa and Alexia have taken Mar aside privately and explained the reasons for his increased curfew and the presence of the creams.
The apartment that Toppa, Tam, Issa and Theo share (that a lot of T names) is currently filled with various pieces of evidence and equipment salvaged in the investigation(s). They're building up a case to present to MAGI to suggest that the creams should at least be investigated again - perhaps put on hold until they can explore the factory officially.
Issa was at the statue, and explained to Shanna that her tour/espionage went pretty well. She was certain that the creams aren't actually produced in Paragon, the packaging is, and is taken to their world for filling. This explains why the dates were so odd she explained - the products were already ready to go when the company popped into existance. It also means that there is a way to bring something from Paragon to their dimension that's not native to their dimension ((this is important, as you can guess)).
Later on, Issa spoke with Shanna and Richard about Chimera Freak and his abilities and powers, and warned them off of a head on fight with him. Richard seemed very relieved that Chimera is mostly concerned with draining magical energy to use, and that he requires physical contact with a target to do it. They also spoke a lot about weddings and ceremonies and dresses and tradition and ballroom dancing.
((I'm going to shuffle the second mission's date forward by a day. The missions will now be Saturday 26th and Friday 2nd. Anyone have a problem with that new date? I'm still going to leave them open a few days afterwards, but I want to make them as available as possible to people joining in that want to. Please drop me a private message or one here if there's any problem with that.))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 3 - One Minute I Held The Key>
Were here! Alexia called out brightly and swung her purse onto the kitchen counter, Where are you? The developments of the week were still fresh in her mind, but at least she was more relieved now. Mar understood that the Mage Class may be operating in Paragon City, but that it was only a suspicion Toppa and his mother had taken him aside Saturday evening as they had promised and explained that much. The much more pressing concern was the presence of Chimera Freak. A known terrorist and mastermind of particularly nasty multinational group known as the Rebel Breed. If he had his hand in the creation of the Aria Chem products, then it was likely that they were indeed meant as chaff to mask his ongoing activities. And he was successfully confusing them for now, but Mar wasnt sure there was anything he could do about that.
Back-room, just adjusting Keystone Alexia. Toppas voice carried across the apartment with a slight echo, he must have been inside the portal generator itself, Dont let Martin fiddle with the many curios and oddities. Ive not had a chance to pack it all away. Alexia motioned to the sofa sternly and Mar threw himself onto it, grabbed the remote and flicked the TV on. Stay put for a bit Martin will you, we wont be long then Ill take you down to Skyway for the lesson. And you heard, no touching. Alexia disappeared into the corridor down the far end of the apartment, leaving Mar alone in the lounge come open-plan kitchen.
Mar soon grew bored of Monday afternoon TV, and after flicking off the same repeat of some chat-show twice he just left it playing on the music channel whilst exploring the rest of the room. The apartment was always more interesting than his own, there was plenty of work Toppa had been doing on various pieces of Artifact Stone, and there was always something to fiddle with. He knew not to un-wrap any Fizzlers again. When those things took in enough sunlight or heat theyd burst into a colourful spray of sparkles. Very safe, very pretty, very hard to explain where the Fizzler stone had gone afterwards.
Mar spotted something wrapped tightly up. Was it another Fizzler? It looked more like a TV remote that had been wrapped in a napkin, or a mobile phone. Tams always had games on, thatd pass the time without having to raid Theos room for his Xbox, and it was quiet enough not to draw attention.
He took his prize to the sofa and started carefully removing it from its wrapping. Sure enough it was something like a phone, only this wasnt Tams mobile. Mar was completely fixated on it for a moment, looked like the batteries were flat or the stone was out of energy. Buttons lined one side and runic inscriptions the other. It was most definitely a piece of Artifact Stone, worked into a piece of technology. Cule he thought, and held it out. It was childish he knew, but he spoke into the dead phone.
Breakr Breakr, One Two, Ahve Seen the Cops! He laughed and turned the communicator over, tracing his fingers over the inscriptions.
Martin, what are you doing out there honey? Alexias voice interrupted.
Nuthin MOM! Mar protested, and hid the phone behind him. Alexia did not come to investigate however, so he returned to messing with it. He assumed it was something Toppa had been working on for the team. Cule new communicators perhaps and this was the prototype. He wondered if it worked would only take charging it for a moment.
Mar concentrated a spell on the communicator, enough energy passing into it to give it a basic charge. Sure enough it started to crackle with static quietly. It might actually work!
Ey? Anyone dere? Mar asked cautiously, completely absorbed in his new toy. Whos that? A voice replied. Mar was jumped out of his skin, and blurted out, Mar Krannock, whos dis?
Krannock? One moment please... The voice trailed off suddenly and the communicator abruptly stopped with the static interference. Mar winced as realisation swept over him. He had no idea who that was, and hed just given them his name. Stupid, stupid thing to do, he tossed the communicator against the far wall in a moment of fear and shock. Mar turned, and was met with a white dot floating next to his head. It didnt follow the communicator.
Mom... Mar hesitated, trying to remember what white dots meant from his training with Toppa, Mom... Mar moved away and the dot tracked him, maintaining its position just to his side.
Martin, were busy, what is it honey? Alexias voice once again interrupted him, Come see dis Mom, please... The white dot grew bigger. Mar suddenly remembered what it was. Abrupt portal locks onto an area and sucks anything within to the destination. Anything not in gets cut off, so keep your arms and legs within the light.
MOM! Mar screamed in desperation as the light exploded around him. Alexia flew into action and appeared in the doorway to see the light take her son away. Nothing was left in the gap the light had just occupied. Even part of the sofa and side table was missing; the table fell into the gap its other legs once were with a crash. Toppa appeared behind Alexia.
Theyve Got MARTIN! Alexia screamed, took a sharp intake of breath and turned to Toppa. Toppa, Get Him BACK. Get him back NOW! Her eyes filled with tears and rage. Her gaze darted franticly around the room for the communicator. It had to be the cause, how had Mar activated it, it was broken...
Toppa, Get My Son BACK! Alexia pleaded helplessly, collapsing against him and pounding him with her fists. Toppa stayed silent, surveying the damage to the room. TOPPA!
We will get him back Alexia. I promise. I have an idea but its going to take time.
We dont HAVE TIME!
They will not harm him. Hell be a bargaining chip, a hostage. We wont let them use him though... please, Alexia, we need to get to work.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Monday>
Theo was at the statue, smoking like a chimney and on near breaking point. Annette was first to spot him and try approaching him, but he gave her a very chilly welcome. She stayed however, and he explained some of the situation to her.
Shanna also arrived and heard about the missing Mar, and Ellie made reference to it, but didn't come up initially to get involved. There was talk of immediate action, but Theo warned that they still didn't have confirmation where Mar was.
Several options were presented:
1. Paragon Mages making a portal: Theo said that making a portal to Rhode Island in his dimension wouldn't put them in a place they'd have access to Mage Class facilities (the nearest he said was 6 hours away).
2. Using their Keystone Portal to get over: Theo said that THAT wouldn't be possible for natives to Paragon (as explained before). However Annette mentioned the creams as a possible solution. But the residue wouldn't be strong enough - Theo said a vat of cream would be needed.
Toppa would be going over with Alexia in the early morning to speak with the Trollkin Parliament to get official confirmation of the abduction and to apply political pressure to try to force a release.
Annette assured Theo that Mar wouldn't be harmed, that he'd be bait for the rest of them and that they had help if they wanted it. She then went to speak with Jacob who was taking the news outwardly well (inwardly is another matter entirely), he said there would be a time and place for frustrations - and that he wanted to make Mar proud by not losing his cool again.
Which, unfortunately, Shanna was struggling with. Theo realised too late that her powers were flaring up, and only the fortunate arrival of Richard eased matters. Richard was able to absorb the excess energy and demanded answers from Theo. When Theo tried to explain, Richard got snarky with him and Theo just stated the barebones of why exactly Shanna was overloading. And for that... Richard snarked at him more!
Jacob offered a meeting with the UV to discuss the powers, abilities and resources of their enemies and the possibility of a planned excursion to get Mar out. Theo agreed that something should be arranged as soon as possible, and after apologising (ish) to Shanna, he left to catch Toppa and explain.
((OOC Note: Can everyone who wants in on the plot please drop me a PM or /t ingame with their thoughts on the timing of the plot. I am willing to speed the plot up considerably, as currently it runs to ending in two weeks almost. There's a couple of options:
1. Keep it as it is (Missions on Saturday 26th and Friday 2nd).
2. Speed it up a bit (Missions on Thursday 24th and Wednesday 30th).
3. Speed it up a lot (Missions on Thursday 24th and Monday 28th).
4. As fast as possible (Missions on Wednesday 23rd and Sunday 27th).
I'm willing for any of the options and will adjust the timings accordingly.))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
((OOC POST))
The winner is:
3. Speed it up a lot (Missions on Thursday 24th and Monday 28th).
This one actually works out pretty well for me and most people. Sorry Fea that the first mission does clash with your timetable - however the second one's the juiciest of the two and definitely not to be missed (getting Mar back).
No story today, however I hope to have Toppa at the statue later... stupid not feeling well/nausea thing.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Tuesday>
((Much of this has been mentioned in the GG thread already...))
Toppa was at the statue, with answers.
The Class (who are lead by the Mage Council, try to keep up) were confirmed as holding Mar, and were transporting him that day to the Zephyr Institute. This highly advanced research facility is being used as a Class stronghold and was the site of the previous interrogation/execution that was videoed and leaked (as Shanna mentioned to the gathered people).
The Parliament (that's the Scottish Trollkins, keeping up?) could not put pressure on the Class too much without causing an international incident, and a raid on the facility would be deemed an act of war. Of course, as Toppa pointed out, the Class also don't want to be seen as the bad guys or executing prisoners in a research lab - so the Wand (that's Toppa's team) have hatched a plan to keep Joseph Zephyr busy and out of the facility to buy Mar and them time. Using media contacts they're causing quite the fuss in their dimension, keeping the media spotlight firmly on Zephyr for some days. Whilst in the spotlight, he won't dare travel to the institute facility. Being the only person with authority to interrogate and/or execute Mar means Mar's safe for now.
Ellie suggested testing the portals on herself, or bonding with Toppa momentarily to attune to his dimension so she could go through alone. Toppa disagreed and said it was far too incredibly risky, and Zorielle also said a big NO.
Shanna offered Cassandra's tracing spell expertise in helping find Mar. Toppa suggested she assist with the targetting of the portals needed to get people to the facility.
Richard offered any help at all he can give - And got roped into helping with the stabilisation of the portal and the medport links. Providing the portal is kept open (meaning Toppa has to stay behind) a transponder and relay will keep the Heroes in Medport range.
The Parliament are providing magical resources to Toppa for building materials for what he referred to as "Keystone". He suggested that within Aria Chem lies enough magical technology created by the Class to provide him with the information he'd need to create the portal. All he needs is a look around in there.
Zorielle offered both counselling through the UV, and supplied Toppa with a team's worth of panic button/communicators devices. Toppa is deeply indebted to her for this, since it's not something he could develop himself so easily.
And Fans, Sparky, Chichester and Ellie (and names I'm forgetting) all offered to assist with the muscle needed to get Mar back.
A plan is coming together, and pieces are falling into place... But what's happening to Mar?
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 4 - Next The Walls Were Closed On Me>
The cell had been home for quite some time now. At least three weeks James had spent the hours in the same four walls. After he was caught trying to leave the complex with further evidence of the murder of Chief Ross, James had been tossed inside a makeshift cell his own office. Food had arrived routinely, but it was drugged. In his hazed sleep they had moved him, and slowly made changes to the room. Firstly, the door was refitted. A tough metal security door with viewing slots and a hinged flap locked at the bottom for serving food. A commode chemical toilet distributed the same night, with a modesty screen. They at least let him keep that; but then he knew this was because of his position. He was a spy for the Trollkin Parliamentary forces, and that made him both a political prisoner and a valuable bargaining chip. They needed him comfortable or hed never speak.
The lab sink had been replaced with a stopper and butt. Each morning the water butt refilled with fresh, cold water, and this was all he had until the next day. There were plastic cups and some rags for washing. The desk had been removed and replaced with two beds down either wall. Needing two was a mystery; James solemnly decided it was in case they decided he had an accomplice. He did, but they were well and truly gone now. But on the upside, he was no longer sleeping in his chair. In fact, he no longer had a chair at all. The bed did fine for sitting, sleeping, laying, counting the ceiling tiles and considering how long he had before they found out he was expendable enough to execute...
If James was right, and he wasnt due to the drugging, on exactly the first day of his third week he did get a cellmate. Early in the morning the guards dragged a Trollkin in an orange jumpsuit into the room. He was unsteady on his feet, drugged as well no doubt for transportation and completely unable to resist. They practically tossed him into the room and he landed with a thump against the floor, with a third keeping a gun trained on James.
Spy, we bought you a little pet. One of the guards sniggered and pointed at the boy. Mongrel.
James shuffled back across his bed. The rational side of his brain cursed down the guard and called him every possible rude term for a specist possible. But that side was nearing the end of its patience, and the exhaustion left him considering all the propaganda he had heard.
We should have taken the jumpsuit, not just that lump of stone! Put him in a collar! The second guard smacked a gloved hand against the first and laughed, Flea?
James just sneered back and cautiously looked at the slumped form of Mar, now resting on the floor peacefully and unconscious. As the guards left they were still cracking offensive jokes at the expense of the passed out teen, and the third just stared James down and backed away slowly.
Mongrels were the result of a Mage and non-human breeding. Schools in Mage society took a clinical starkness to the outcome Generally seen as mentally underdeveloped and unable to form social or family bonds. The resulting beings often have shortened life spans of less than a decade, and have a higher likelihood of both physical and mental birth defects. Humans were taught to fear them, find them savage and beastly; and from that the hatred grew. Whilst mages were convinced theyd have children incapable of loving them, incapable of growing and dying quickly an abnormality to avoid. Of course it was all a twisted lie. In reality the Faekin would whisk any Faekin/Mage hybrids off into obscurity they could. And the Trollkin would too, though with much less success. This was a rarity all around however as the mages were careful to monitor hospitals and maternity units, tracking healthcare surgeries and Mage family activities for mothers of questionable babies. The children were taken away by the state for its own interests bar one famous case. James knew this from his work with the Trollkin government. And yet in his own incarcerated state he yearned to have some outlet for anger, even if he knew better.
If were really lucky, itll eat him and thats two jobs done!
James moved over and shook Mar by the shoulder. Oi? Mongrel? Oi! James gave him a push and Mar rocked over onto his side. He was conscious, but he didnt want to be. His face was streaming with tears. He stayed completely silent, and only moved to drag his knees up to his chest and tightly wrap his arms around them very slowly, and quite sorely.
Oh bairn, Oh... bairn... James soft Edinburgh accent crept back into his voice as he realised Mar was soundly in his teen years. The anger and frustration drained away, Im sorry...
Whats your name?
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Wednesday>
Issa met with Jacob and Annette at the statue, and they went for a delightful spot of tea in space. (Everything's just better in space).
They discussed Aria Chem and Chimera (Issa believes he is currently going by Mister C), as well as details on how to approach going into Aria Chem legally. They came up with a plan to have one team go in and make a distraction whilst collecting samples Toppa would need to create a stable portal to their dimension for Paragonverse people. Meanwhile, Issa and Toppa would also head in the other way, and take a good look at the machinery and Artifact Stone within the factory itself.
Issa against warned them off of taking Chimera on right now.
Looks like Annette also dug up information on "Paparazzi", but Issa didn't know who that was ((see below)). So after more chatter and a delightful gift basket that included flowers and baked goods and fruit they headed back to the statue for chatter, Baby visits and trying to find some rest.
----
((OOC NOTE - MISSION 1 is on for tomorrow. Raiding Aria Chem. Team will be made up first come first serve from around 9pm, should not last too long. Tam is the contact at the statue you'll be looking for if interested, he'll be briefed by Toppa and prepared with a plan of action.))
----
((Extra Bit))
Body Found in Independance Port
During the early hours of Thursday the 23rd of June 2010, a body was found washed up in Independance Port, near an older Crey facility.
The body has been identified as the hero "Paparazzi". Paparazzi spent many years in Paragon City working against the organised crime mobs and sought justice for those people involved affected by the organised crime families operating within the Port area.
It is believed that she may have been targetted in a vengeance attack following the arrest of several key members of a drugs and arms ring operating in warehouses and factory units around the Port.
Crey Industries are co-operating where possible with authorities and left a statement with the press condemning the killing, and also offering their apologies for the grim discovery on land once used by them. Police have stated that although they are following solid leads, the time spent in the water has destroyed crucial evidence. The case continues...
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<<Mission 1 Roundup>>
The group today consisted of Annette, Jacob, Ellie, Tam, Rik, Richard, Tim and Chichester, who gathered at the statue first, where they went over plans for approaching the factory and the rules whilst inside. Tam insisted that they don't start the fight, and instead draw people in then let them make the first move.
They met outside the factory again and headed inside. Toppa, Issa and Theo made up a second smaller team who would follow them in through another route. Tam's team had to maintain the focus on them as long as possible whilst Toppa got a good look at the machinery on the factory floor. So Tam lead the team into the packaging and deliveries area, pinning something to the wall on the way in ((As Ellie found out later, it was a photograph of Mar signed by Tam as a warning to Chimera)).
Although they weren't immediately spotted, as soon as Annette went to scout ahead the rest of the team were spotted on security scanners and drew the attention of the guards. There was a tense standoff where Tam tried to play dumb and official at the same time, until one nervous guard got a slippery trigger and fired.
All hell broke loose and a LOT of noise was made. Chichester was successfully subduing Trollkins (Fire, use fire!) and Rik shut down any runners with the help of Mr Lumps. Jacob was very effectively shutting down any Trollkillers for Tam. Trollkillers (as Tam pointed out) are channellers like Toppa, but focus on Fire magic. They focus on armour flaws and get their flames in, then cook a warrior from the inside out. Very dangerous and very effective against Tam.
As the team moved through the factory they continued to draw the attention of as many mages and guards as possible. However as they left each area Tim noticed the subtle white glow of a teleport, and Annette confirmed that the defeated guards were teleporting away. It wasn't medports, and it certainly wasn't zigtags... the defeated were running automatically.
Some crates of product were found, and nestled amongst them was a secure chest. Annette opened it ((no-one can resist glowies)) and immediately set of the alarms whilst recovering samples of Artifact Stone - Guards came rushing in from the far side of the factory, exactly as was needed. The team again trounced the guards and headed further in.
The alarms abruptly stopped, but Tam assured the group this was as planned. Theo was working in the rafters of his side to cut power cables and generally cause great mischief. He had locked down the factory floor to give Toppa a safezone to work in and was facing considerably less trouble due to the excellent work of the distraction team. Who then went on to take on a HUGE group of baddies in a room off of the main thoroughfare. No-one quite fell though, there was a dodgy moment for Rik but he got back on his feet (good on him!).
When nearing the offices area they spotted the heavily guarded Mia Rech, who was staying after hours. Her team of guards were defeated and she submitted to the heroes. Unfortunately she wasn't exactly what the team expected to find I think. The rather childish Mia first shouted for guards, then tried to coerce Richard into thinking she was the victim in all this. Which may have been more successful if she hadn't have thrown her clipboard of account details at him. It bounced away harmlessly, and as Chichester and Ellie found out from reading them, she was preparing to siphon off even MORE money from the company into her own accounts in addition to the already bulging accounts she was getting from Chimera.
Mia was honestly concerned for her safety however, and confessed that Chimera was also using the creams as a way of creating 'batteries' around the city. After a few months of exposure the energy would linger long enough not to need the creams - leaving many unwitting victims around the city with no idea they were fuel for Chimera if he ever needed it! Luckily since the company was being closed for business early... this would not come to pass.
Mia offered a deal, she would confess her involvement in the scheme and the murder of Paparazzi in return for protection from Jacob... I mean, from Chimera. Jacob wasn't amused with her talking about Paparazzi, as she made mention of her in a very flippant fashion. Ellie picked up on the sound of smashing glass, and Chichester and Rik were eager to go investigate. This piqued Mia's interest, and she accused them of willful destruction of her property - but she wasn't in the place to make accusations. Tam silenced the group and Ellie was able to pick up from Tam's comm that it was simply Theo, Issa and Toppa making good their exit through a skylight nearby.
Mia then had the idea of shutting up until a lawyer could see her. So she went quiet and got led away by Ellie. Who left her in an airlock in the Unity Vigil Spacestation until the police could be arranged and Mia charged as an accessory and so forth. Apparently Mia was quite insistent that the station wasn't anything like a police station, or CSI (the ditz). She was placated with episodes of CSI by BODI, who then proceded to ignore her whining.
During this time, Tim was able to capture a teleporting mage in time, and Annette removed his portstone device. The unconscious mage was zigtagged as both an accessory in the murder of Paparazzi (Mia fingered him as one of the shooters) and an illegal alien/labourer/terrorist/every other name Chichester could come up with. Poor Tim however was exhausted by this, and had to recharge later at the statue.
Richard did one last sweep of the factory whilst Annette sorted out more samples of the portstones for Tam.
Back at the statue, Tam collected the samples from Annette and Tim's collection, and bath salts from Annette that Tam promised to save as a present for Mar - Mar was that much more closer to home and Tam wanted it to be special when he got back.
((PHEW! - If anyone has any feedback from the mission that they'd like to provide, please do so! I'm very open to feedback both good and bad - just be polite, but I know you will be 
. Since the team did so well I'm releasing the follow-up story from Chimera's perspective today too. Go team!))
((Almost forgot. For anyone wishing to run the mission again or catch up I will leave it up for some time. It is ID# 420723 "Raiding Aria Chem".))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 5 - Your Taunting Smirk Behind The Glass>
Joseph Zephyr's Offices, 10:24am Friday 25th June:
The doors to Josephs office swung open and smashed themselves against the flanking bookshelves. At the far end of the office and around a corner Joseph stood up from his desk, and bore a stunned gaze down at the approaching Chimera. Im busy. He began, before a glare from Chimera immediately shut him down. Chimeras rage was boiling all over him, rippling the air with magical energy.
Where is he? Chimera demanded, tossing a picture of Martin Krannock at Joseph, Why do you have the boy?
Quite the opportunity presented itself, I must admit, Joseph gloated, taking a moment to pluck the picture from the desk and take a look at it. To be honest I was expecting the right-hand man. But the mongrel child will do.
He is of no use to you.
It is of every use to me Chimera. Joseph put down the picture and took off his glasses. Purposefully folding them slowly and tucking them into a leather case with the greatest care, not speaking, holding Chimera in enraged silence for a few seconds. It will reveal much information about the other plane, its inhabitants, that which we are up against, and the inner workings of the Wand team.
HE knows nothing. Chimeras personal situation betrayed itself. His insistence upon not referring to mongrels as things, as non-entities, was well known within the Mage Class. Chimera had been something of a pet to them, a poster-child of what grooming could achieve. A mongrel himself of Faekin abstraction he was born without magical affiliation; instead he was capable of draining magical energy from other sources to use as spells, raw energy blasts, whatever he saw fit. Groomed for high society he was a celebrity figure for much of his formative years, and his expectations were warped by it. And then one fateful night he lost control, killed a Mage at a function and had been thrown away. He was proof that nurturing worked to sooth the savage, and proof enough to the Mages that mongrels were dangerous and unpredictable. What exactly do you think is happening now?
I believe your venture went south... such a shame they targetted you, Joseph smirked slightly, The coverage is suitable enough that the lingering magical energy will serve to confuse Stonegaze for months. And the development of the dust-bombs and portstones has been suitably covered up.
They have completely destroyed our business in Paragon. We no longer have that foothold. Mia Rech is...
Your puppet.
WAS my puppet. Shes lost again now the money chain is broken. In custody as an accessory to the murder of that Heroine. Ive lost countless portstones, the machinery is wrecked and their police are crawling all over it. Now Ive had to skulk around underground over that side, make do with sewers and abandoned caves...
As you should, Chimera. Your help has been invaluable.
Do you want to know, Joseph Zephyr, what the heroes did? Have you looked in your infirmaries? Chimera spoke with the slightest hint of indignation at the prior insult. His words bore themselves into Joseph and pestered him relentlessly, What?
They were like lambs to the slaughter, your men. The heroes beat them soundly and put them in hospitals. You took a child from them and they made it hurt against your people. They ravaged them. No mercy, no attempt at a peaceful solution. They just... fought like animals. Chimera presented the facts in the most biased of terms, knowing what would set Joseph off and cement his influence. They even have one of your men. Hostage no doubt for his so called crimes against an unrecognised state. You should fight back for him...
And we will fight back, Chimera. Joseph crossed to the window behind him and glanced at Chimeras reflection, he could not quite make out the smirk that grew broadly across the pale visage. It would not be immediate, there had to be time to regroup. When I can get away from this office I will head to the Zephyr Institute immediately. Grace and his people are no doubt responsible for the journalists sniffing around my every move.
And the Trollkins?
No major threat. Theyd never attempt anything Chimera, spineless brutes with none of their historic power. Need teaching a lesson however if they think they can send agents in to my facilities.
Josephs mind was clear. The first order of business was to find out as much information as possible and get away from the press. Would take a couple of days yet to slip away, Monday maybe. Information would come first from the spy from Scotland captured sneaking out the video footage of the Zephyr Artifact. Then the mongrel would have every last piece of information drained out of it.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 6 - Angel Of Mercy, How Did You Find Me?>
There was a sharp bang on the door, and the slit at the bottom slid open. “Food. Stay back or we’ll take it away.”
“Foo’?” Mar asked hopefully, his stomach rumbling. Four days without food had left him lethargic and irritable. At least the water was routinely filled each night via pipe, and there was no shortage of that. “Not for you, Mongrel. For your bunkmate.” Mar’s eyes sank to the paper tray that came through the opening. Nothing was being left to chance it seemed – even the paper tray was barely holding itself together. There was some sort of biscuit, a high energy carbohydrate mush formed into rectangles and dried. Beside it sat processed meat of some description, thick with jelly and lean on meat. And vegetable matter to serve as a salad. It looked like castoffs, but was the best the two inmates could have hoped for. International species rights did not extend to feeding what was considered research animals, and Mar needed a minute to stop him from succumbing to the frustration again.
Mar’s hunger nagged at him constantly, staring down at the plate. James stayed silent as the slit closed again and the sound of footsteps echoed away. The air grew thick and tense, both of them staring at the paper tray intently.
Mar dove forwards at the tray and shielded it with his body, lowering his stance ready to knock James away, “Ah’ll figh’ yer for it, Ah will. Ah nee’ te ea’ an’...” He spun around with a wild glare, warning James away.
On his bed, James sat with his arms folded. He hadn’t moved even slightly from his perch, and had shifted his gaze to look Mar in the eyes once again. After a breath he spoke lowly, almost a whisper, “I’m na going to fight you for the food bairn. If you share you share.” Mar looked down despondently at the tray and began systematically taking each item and snapping it, or tearing it, into two equal shares. Not that there was much even for one person, but after a few minutes he had created two portions on the tray of everything. He carried it over gingerly, showing the utmost care not to lose his precious load, and placed it firmly on James’ bed. Mar sat with a slump on the opposite side to James, and began eating his half.
James continued to sit quietly for a few minutes, and then as Mar began finishing his food, he picked up his share. This time he took each piece in turn, snapped it in two and placed it in two piles. “You’re a growing lad, you need to eat properly.” He said with a smile, and swung the tray around so the new pile faced Mar. “Eat up.”
“Ah cannun accep’ dis...” Mar hesitated, his belly quietened for now, knowing that too soon hunger would return to pester him. “You’ll have to,” retorted James, “Otherwise it will go to waste.” He popped some of his quarter-share into his mouth and began savouring it, “After all, your friends may be here at any moment, and we can’t have you wasting away before then.”
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 7 - Fearless On My Breath>
At around 7pm, though not that he could tell, Mar finally lost his nerve with the impending gravity of his situation. His fears over what were about to happen to James and him swelled up in his mind and exploded. He missed his mom and dad, his team, his friends, his bowling with Jacob and his lessons with Annette and Rauri. He could no longer see any way out; he just wanted to leave – tell people he was here, to come get him. He rushed over to the door and started smashing it wildly with his fists, begging and pleading to be let out of the room. The metal door shook wildly, and his knuckles began to burst and bleed, leaving red stains on the shoddy blue paint.
James flew into action almost immediately. He knew what was about to happen and grabbed Mar by the arms, struggling backwards as best he could. But even for his size and youth a Trollkin teen is easily as strong as an adult male, and the fight was far from one sided. James tried to shush him, tried to put a hand over his mouth, but in the frenzy Mar bit him. “Stay quiet Mar, Please, stay...”
Both of them paused for a moment and Mar’s eyes flashed with recognition of what he’d just done, and his posture slumped. He just murmured softly for a few moments on the verge of tears and fell into sitting on his bed. James knelt down and looked him in the eyes, gently placing the one hand on his shoulder as the second began to bleed.
The door swung open violently, and two guards bore down on the pair. In their body armour and helmets they dwarfed the two captives. A smile cracked across the leader’s face, James recognised him as the guard that bought Mar to the cell, “You want out Mongrel?”
“Please,” James said, shuffling his position so Mar was behind him. “He’s upset, he couldna control himself; He’s just a bairn...”
“Oh, so you’re a mongrel-lover too are you spy?” The second guard pointed a gloved hand at James, “We’re getting quiet.”
James saw his moment and took it. The door was still open behind the pair and it was the only chance they had gotten so far. He dived forwards at the leader of the two and knocked him backwards. A gloved fist came down on the side of his head hard from the second guard, and James fell limp against the stone floor. He was out cold, and Mar screamed in confusion and anger.
Mar launched himself at the guards and started striking them. A fire boiled in his blood and his body succumbed to an intense adrenaline rush. His veins pulsed with the Trollkin blood, a berserker fury that coursed through his entire being. His mind swam out of reason or thought and he swung wildly and uncontrolled. But the two guards, in armour, were much more of a match for him. His already weakened body and bleeding knuckles couldn’t take the pounding, and without thought his ungraceful fighting left him open again and again.
So they beat him; until he stayed quiet.
<<Extra Newspaper Bit 2>>
Arson Ravages Stricken Company
Aria Chemicals, a company that had seen a surge in popularity lately has had several blows to business this week. Police investigations into the murder of the hero Paparazzi are citing new evidence as reason to hold owner and chief operator Mia Rech for questioning over possible involvement. Police sources suggest a suspect is being held and claiming that Ms Rech was responsible for arranging and ordering a gangland-style execution order on the unfortunate heroine.
All business operations by Aria have been shut down, and many retailers are refusing to keep stocks of Aria Chem products on the shelves. Several advertising agencies have likewise pulled the plug on the new range of beauty products.
The Aria Chem facility has also seen a mystery arson attack - believed to be retribution for the murder of Paparazzi. A large slogan has been burned into the roof of the building, visible only from inside and much of the machinery has been gutted and destroyed. Police refuse to comment further on the arson, but are calling the message a hoax, possibly by Hellion gang members to cause confusion during the case... ((The story then moves on to other details recapping the original murder inquiry)).
((A picture going with the story shows the view of the message on the factory floor roof, taken from the floor looking up. In big letters the following message can be made out -
"I KNOW YOU KNOW
WHERE TO REACH MI" ))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Saturday>
Toppa was at the statue, having made considerable progress with the portstones and Keystone portal generator. A prototype was discussed as well as how the actual process of teleporting them through the portal without being rejected and tossed back again worked.
After discussing further Ellie's concerns over Chimera's energy-absorbing abilities and breaking the news to Air Razor that his friend was missing, Toppa agreed to having Annette's club take over on some of the production of the portstone devices the heroes would be using - to both allow Toppa's team to rest up for the mission, and expediate the process. Jacob also cleared up with Toppa exactly what sort of level the mages were on (as well as their leader, Joseph) and left to start training so he was certain he'd be prepared and better than they were.
Toppa also helped decode the message Chimera left at Aria Chem after the arson, correcting the grammar as well... chastising Chimera for the sloppy grammar too - but missing the point that the message was meant for two different people at once.
"I know you know where too, reachmi" (reachmi being an anagram of Chimera, as Rik pointed out).
The message was both a threat to Mia (("I know you know where to reach me" being the original message to her)) and an admission to Toppa that Chimera was aware of Mar. Annette had already arranged increased protecting/guards around Mia - who is now pending full investigation/trial for her misdeeds. Toppa was confused however by the message - if Chimera was already aware of Mar, why weren't there more guards at the factory? Why wasn't Chimera there himself...? Unless...
Toppa was exhausted however, and Annette convinced him to get some rest. She even offered sedatives if the rest of the team refused to sleep before the mission.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Part 8 - Feels Like I'll Never Leave This Place>
Mar sat up on his bed and immediately slumped backwards again with a wince. Even his organs ached emptily, from a mixture of hunger and bruising. Something was stuck to his face; it was a wet cold-compress. The calmed voice of James drew Mars attention, and he gently eased his neck around to look over at the other bed. James was now missing his sleeves, and Mar held the compress out before him it was indeed his sleeve.
Thats a nasty black eye youve got there Mar. Some of the bruisings already passing. Thats the Trollkin in you Id expect. James smiled wearily and motioned to the window slot with his bandaged hand, Im sorry Mar, but thats na the same sunset. Youve been out for some time.
Ow did we nun git killd? Mar slurred blurrily, his lip was swollen and his mind was hazy. Nothing really made much sense, like waking up still punch-drunk. A scientist, doctor, something or other, saw the door open and what with that shouting you were doing, she came to see. When she saw me on the floor she screamed... I managed to get myself back up, and she ran for help...
She savd us, so deyre nun all ba? Mar smiled hopefully through the pain. James hadnt the heart to tell him the reality of it all. The scientist had indeed ran for help but only because a human prisoner had been beaten. The guards werent punished for what they had done to Mar, there were no rules acknowledged by the Mage Class governing the imprisonment of Mongrels. Either way the guards had been replaced, and he was thankful for that. What exactly that womans true motives were was left to assumption and conjecture on James part and he preferred Mars interpretation of it anyway.
Have some water now bairn, and keep your strength up... James pointed to the water bucket. Beside it were two new cups and an extra tray of food. One of the new guards is Drakkin. They be a bit more thoughtful of people like you Mar. Replaced the things damaged in the fight. Na that I think it makes much difference... weve na long now before they... James trailed off and thought better of it. Mar was already eating the food hastily, and James had no appetite to join him in eating anyway. A sick, empty feeling rushed over him as he looked at the rapidly darkening sky through the reinforced window.
The new guards had provided the replacements for James; at his request. In the morning he was to be taken for interrogation and one of his demands had been extending his care to Mar, otherwise he wouldnt say anything. He didnt plan on revealing anything at all anyway, and was quite prepared for the punishment. The food was likely provided as a means to subdue the pair until James was taken away; drugged with sedatives. All he hoped was that time wouldnt run out and that Mar was right about people coming for them. He reached into his overalls and touched a necklace that had remained hidden gently. He had a one last plan still.
"So, Mar, what's your favourite band? And do na tell me you do na like music..."
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
----
Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
<Ingame Roundup Note: Sunday>
((Was zonked out last night, playing a desperate mother is hard work.))
Alexia was at the statue for air. She was barely holding on to her composure by a thread and was doing her best to distract herself with a Maeve Binchy book. Which didn't really help, but proved useful for hiding in.
She spoke for a while with Annette and Ellie, who did their best to reassure her that Mar was going to be okay and that the heroes always win and the bad guys always lose. She wasn't totally convinced, but trusted that their confidence must be well founded. Jacob headed over and gave key, dramatic, pointed moments of advice and support, and offered her a cup of tea (such a nice young enormous man). He also offered her to a room at the Tower to stay until Mar was saved, and Alexia agreed that she couldn't go to her apartment or stay in the portal-filled apartment either. Ellie and Annette urged her to get sleep - but as she said - she's petrified she'll wake up to bad news, so she can't sleep.
Shanna and Richard also came over, and Alexia apologised for declining Shanna's mother's offer of a place to stay - but Shanna understood. Richard also asked for the delivery address for this relay and transponder - so Alexia tore the front coverpage of her book out and wrote down the address whilst leaning on the cover.
After more talking people began to drift away, and Alexia asked for a moment before she headed on to the Tower (with some overnight things). Jacob stayed around for a while to reassure her, then headed off for more training - whilst Ellie and Annette headed on with their duties (Annette to head to London for another batch of 'Stone).
Alexia left after speaking briefly with Chichester. She left her half finished cup of tea, and the Maeve Binchy book with the torn out page on the seat of the picnic table.
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
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Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive
((TEASER)) ((INGAME PLOT - NOT FORUM RP))
Joseph Zephyr’s office was typical of the grandeur expected of someone in a ministerial position. Much of the space was occupied with bookshelves full of tomes never used, mostly for show, and dotted with ornamental pieces and relics. Across from the doorway his large oak desk dominated the far end, flanked either side by curtained windows. It was deliberately arranged so that anyone entering the room saw Joseph lit primarily from behind and thus that much more difficult to see his exact features. Joseph sat working at the desk quietly, an unsettling air of calm rested on him.
After a few minutes of writing, Joseph sat back with a soft smile and picked up a cup from the desk. “Chimera, must you forever sit there in total silence?” he said, motioning to the chair facing him. Chimera opened his eyes and glared at Joseph for a moment, before speaking with refined arrogance, “Meditation is good for the mind. I have what you require.”
“Excellent.”
“You’re aware of what the Stonegaze is I presume. With its ability to trace the area around Grace and pick up locations of magical activity we would be totally unable to approach him head on.”
“I’m aware of it now…” Joseph hesitated with a frown, “And your recommendation?”
“Already in progress my good man. We’ve released a number of products into the Paragon markets via our puppet company. They are totally mundane beauty creams, but have enough Artifact Stone dust in them as some exfoliating nonsense…”
“Aha, so the civilians will give false positives,” Joseph interrupted, giving Chimera a broad smile and taking a sip from his drink. “Excellent. What about the locations?”
“The dust-bomb was a successful test. As you’re aware from the late Mister Ross’s reports,” Chimera brushed a stray hair from his face and tucked it back into his ponytail. “It will allow us to make a quick getaway if need be. Meanwhile we’re also looking into releasing paints and cleaning products from a subsidiary of Aria Chem to cover false locations.”
“It would seem you have everything in hand.” Joseph shuffled some of the papers on his desk and took a moment to look into the eyes of his ally. Chimera wore white contacts to give him only dotted black eyes, an unsettling presence that left even the usually confident Joseph reluctant to maintain eye-contact with the man for any length of time. “The late Mister Ross’ left only his emergency portstone behind in Zephyr. I’m still amused that Stone itself isn’t dissolved away, but the researchers have demonstrated it’s just a quirk of the enchantments.”
“The portstones are being mass produced by Aria Chem as we speak. Pretty soon the entire strike forces will be able to operate, and get home without the interference of Zig-tagging under most circumstances. It takes some time however, the process is complicated and… expensive.”
“You’ll be well reimbursed Chimera.”
“I expect to be.”
((OOC NOTE - Advertisements for beauty products and so on, from Aria Chem, will start appearing in newspapers and posters. As the advertising works, it will move on to TV adverts and larger billboards. Contact me privately Unionversers if you need further information or investigation materials.
This thread will be used for the ongoing plot, but there is little action right now.))
Forse: lvl 22 FF/NRG Defender
Tam Krannock: lvl 37 Shield/Mace Tanker
Toppa Grace: lvl 25 Fire/Ice Blaster
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Red Commissar: I'm in the Queen Mother. Only more awesome. And alive