On the same day as Arcus meets the mayor Bedlam is accosted by a nondescript citizen at the market.

"Hey Big Guy. How do you like this model? We call it the infiltrator. Anyway, got a job proposal for you and your crew. Interested?"

The model is indeed convincing, down to mild eczema to severe halitosis. Without special equipment, you would struggle to detect the difference.

BTW need to know what you decided about ZE-5.

"Model?" Bedlam stares down at the stranger for a moment, his stance has an unfriendly angle. "Have we met?"

Bedlam does a quick visual and telepathic examination of the man. Something is not quite right, more than just the bad breath.

"Wait a minute," he raises an eyebrow in surprise, his attitude clearly relaxing. "Wilbur?"

"Well this is an unexpected pleasure," the giant grins broadly, offering his hand in greeting. "The crew was just about ready start another delve. So..."

Bedlam makes a note of the machine's mannerisms and psychic aspect. He wants to spot such infiltrators in the future.

"What do you have in mind?"

"Loose Lips" says  Wilbur enigmatically. "Gather your crew and let's meet back in the Last Chance in two hours. I've reserved one of their so-called conference rooms" he says disdainfully, before melting back into the crowd.

As Wilbur slips away Bedlam shakes his head. ~Sure hope I'm not that melodramatic when engaging in political intrigue.~ the giant thinks. Then he goes to round up the crew for Wilbur's meeting.

OOC: What does Bedlam know about the conference rooms in the Last Chance? Could Wilbur be using it for a trap or ambush?

Bedlam considers the risk of a trap or ambush low (without the co-operation of the Compton authorities) and so the party gathers in the "conference room", a cramped cellar space with mismatched chairs and a rickety old table.

Wilbur enters last, and starts by putting a small electronic gizmo on the table that hums and smells of ozone.

"Don't want anyone listing to us do we" he says with a private smile. "I expect you're wondering why I called you here today. Well, we have a job offer for you. The Gren over in Greenleaf Park control a biofuel processing facility. It's how they make fuel for the porkers, in exchange for protection. Since you decimated the piggies that protection is stretched so we want you to go in, neutralise the Gren and secure the facility. We have some old floor plans and a pretty good estimate of the enemy disposition. All you have to is take them out quietly, as they have the place rigged to blow as a deterrent. We'll pay you in tech of course. Any questions?"

Arcus is not pleased to be working with a traitor... his opinion 'once a turn-coat... Always a turncoat'... but the young man keeps his opinions to himself, though the surly expression on his face is clear he is not happy to be dealing with this back-stabber again... and expects off-the-bat for there to be another betrayal in the plans and details 'Wilbur' is not revealing as yet.

But, that all aside... he does have a question...

"Aye, Ah have a question!  Now if'n I recall correctly we are supposed ta' be a salvage and exploration team, right? Well where does the idea of takin' what's not ours from peoples as already owns it, gots anything ta' do with 'salvage'?  Sounds more like banditry ta' meh~!  Ah mean~ beasties stalking a ruin thas' got valuables~ they don't got the sentience ta' claim or use or maybe even thugs hold up in a ruin~ using tech they have salvaged or more likely stolen ta threaten or harm peaceful livin' folks are true valid targets; but what have these Gren done ta be worthy o' having their people kilt and their possessions taken??  Is it the fuel-makin' plant or tha' bio-fuel.. yur interested in?  Ah'm a thinkin' if'n ya is decent and talk real nice-like maybe negotiatin' fur their fuel or gettin' a look-see at their fuel-makin' plant... say fur perhaps providing some added high-tech security as their Porker 'buddies' are kinda' scarce now... might be a less bloody and socially polite way ta' git what yur after!  Gren are sentient folks.. why not talk wit' em'??"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:17, Mon 16 Nov 2015.

Wilbur proves how good his stealth chassis is by dropping his jaw in surprise before gathering his wits. "Did you know Gren eat people? Yeah, I've seen the footage. Listen, we're trying to bring order to the Sprawl and that starts by taking the facility away from subhuman scum and putting it to good use. Now, before we go any further in this briefing, do the rest of you share your buddy's moral qualms?"

 She listened as the stranger compton man spoke about becoming vigilantes for this man. Frowning she glanced over to Bedlam and listened to Arcus and his speech.

 "I dont like this idea either." She was not a talker and she was part plant also. "While i may not like those Gren we have run into out there i find it hard that all of them deserve to be killed like the violent animals we run into out there."

Ophelia stepped out of the shadows,she'd been there for a while unseen and listening to the conversation.

" my young friend here has a point, they may not be nice but they haven't done anything to cause us to do a pre-emptive strike on them." she held her hand up before anyone could argue " BUT they do pose an unknown threat to our community. For that reason alone they need to be studied."

She was silent for a moment " I suggest that we do a recon of their base. see what they are up to and assess what can be done to mitigate the threat. I don't agree with going on hearsay and rumour but solid evidence that they are getting ready to be hostile against us needs to be gathered before we turn from survivors to murderers"

"Sorry Wilbur, whats your point?" Thunderbird asked "You dropped a grenade down ZE's pants. I do not trust you nor will I ever." he added looking around the room at the others.

"I remember one of the scientists talking about thugs in the past like Hitler and Zen Dau the Butcher that would call their enemies "Sub-human" in order to justify destroying them." he added "Now you want to use us to destroy the Gren, in order to take over a source of fuel? Sorry, no deal. If we were to deal with the Gren, the fuel would be better used by everyone in Compton than under your exclusive control." Thunderbird said, sweeping his arm around the area.

"I can see a future that Compton can become a center of knowledge in order to rebuild this region. If only a handful of beings have knowledge, then growth is stagnated since only the powerful will be able to read or use the technology. The more that can, the better to exchange ideas between each other and quicker to rebuild."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:54, Mon 23 Nov 2015.

Arcus breathes deeply... not in anger... but his heart swelling in overjoyed pride of his New Companions.

Thinking, {I guess.. I was wrong... these ARE good folk~ HEROES! Mah message of civilization is spreading...!}

He continues, "...sub-human eh?  Well, Ah'm a thinkin' its a foregone conclusion tha' Humans are no longer tha' dominant peoples on this world o' wastelands we've ALL inherited from tha' ancients!  As mah pa' use' ta say, 'Tha Ancient's left us all a big ole' shit-sandwich.. an we alls got ta' takes a bite!  We don't have ta like it.. but we do have ta' live with it!'  Ah think wha'  he was meaning is we all have ta live tagehter or we all are gonna die together.  Tha' world is full o' sub-humans, trans-humans, post & pre-humans, aliens, plants, robots, androids, and dimensional beings... Grens, Porkers, Hoops, Badders, you name it~ yes and humans... mutant an mundane.. but its tha' world we got an we are all gonna have ta learn - someday ta' live tagether somehow.. and hopefully make a betah tomorrow fur our youngin's an maybe not make tha' same mistakes of the Ancient tha' broke tha' world in tha' first place!"

"You say them Gren's eat humans.. well if'n I remember correctly Gren's is plant folks.. so maybe ta' them their just playing tit fur tat, cause humans eat plants?  But if we show them we can be civil an talk polite, negotiate with them as equals... maybe they might think differently?  I fur one nevah EVER consider eatin' someone I can have a conversation wit!"

"I think Miss Ophelia's idea is the best approach, maybe since Rose is a plant herself... she can be point on speakin' with them Grens~ properly protected o' course... ta try an open a dialogue with em before we resort ta' guns and violence?  I'd like ta' know if we got a good reason ta' be killin' before we start somethin' tha' may plunge tha' whole area inta a war tha' ain't needed!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Mon 23 Nov 2015.

Crinkles sits idly by. His fur rankled a bit at the subhuman comment, afterall the yeti had been accused of being similarly worthless himself on more than one occasion. The truth of the matter was, Crinkles never knew how to really join in a discussion where heated words were exchanged, he was good when things went beyond words and he was good when the words were cordial but nothing in between. The yeti figured it was a wash anyway, most people only needed Crinkles to lend an intimidating presence to the proceedings, never to speak.

To himself he thought, "~Crinkles doesn't recall encountering Gren, during his travels, but everyone needs to eat things even unusual things to survive. As long as the Gren have not harmed innocents Crinkles thinks talking to them is the best policy.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:12, Tue 24 Nov 2015.

Wilbur's expression gets grimmer and grimmer as everyone says their piece, then he turns to Bedlam. "Anything to add?" he asks menacingly.

Ophelia moved to one side and she felt the now familiar pressure behind her eyes as she gathered her new powers ready to strike.

She disliked the tone of the robots voice and was ready to protect her friend if needed

A...disturbing and nasty thought occurred to Arcus...

{..if Wilbur can 'transfer' to new... mechanical-like bodies on his destruction~ what's to keep him from just having a bomb installed in his body and not carry any weapons at all... to kill folks as turn out ta be 'inconvenient'; like were seeming ta' be to his plans right now, and suffer no consequences his-self?}

When Wilbur turns his attention to Bedlam, Arcus slips his hands to the edge of the table and hooks his thumbs over the edge to grab a hold of the table... shifting his legs slightly in his seat for better leverage... and readies himself to flip the table and bolster it with his Shimmering Shield to provide cover to his friends in the room... should he get the notion that Wilbur might explode...

...its thin.. but its just the kind of spoil-sport thing the traitorous robot might do if it thought it could get away with it.

Arcus watches Wilbur's reactions like a hawk...ready to act if his gut warns him of treachery...
This message was last edited by the player at 22:47, Tue 24 Nov 2015.

 The actions of the others made her look up from where the Wilbur was sitting and glance around before it dawned on her that they were acting nervous and seemed to be going to warplant mode.

 She looked back at wilbur and stood up and eyed the being in front of her wondering if maybe she should attack now, still she was not the team leader and had no desire to be a leader unless everyone was riding motorcycles like hers.

 Her eyes shifted slightly so that she could take in Bedlam's face and what he might do.

Bedlam nods and gives Wilbur a sheepish grin. "Not really," he shrugs.

"While I'm not sure I agree with the exact words which have been spoken," the giant throws a meaningful glance in Thunderbird's direction. "It does seem pretty clear we're not the best crew for this particular gig. You were with us on the last delve - stealth is not our strong point. Like the kid said, we really are better suited for exploration, salvage and barter."

Bedlam projects his thoughts to the crew ~Easy there lads and lasses. Let's not antagonize someone who can nuke us from orbit. I am going to play it a little dumb so he is happy we turned him down.~

"Now with regard to the Gren," Bedlam continues. "They've got their hands full with the badders, don't they? Give it a little time and your problem will go away on its own."

Wilbur switches off the anti-bugging device and stands up abruptly. "Looks like I made a big mistake coming to you. Rest assured it won't be repeated. Now let me make one thing very clear: if anything we have discussed goes any further, we will end you. END YOU! Just stay out of our business and you can continue grubbing for trinkets in the rubble"

Bedlam nods agreeably.

"Fair enough," the giant straightens up, avoiding the low ceiling. "We'll see you 'round the barter table."

"C'mon crew," he turns to leave. "They serve a decent stew here and we have a delve to plan."

~Ophelia, make sure Wilbur doesn't leave us any surprises. I trust you'll be subtle in your observations.~

Arcus rose from his seat his expression one of utter defiance... as if to punctuate his boiling temper.. his hair suddenly turning into a corona roiling flames...

But his scowl took in Bedlam... and instead following his lead~ he merely gave Wilbur a very dirty look and he turned to leave, though the actual temperature in the room did spike suddenly with his clearly barely contained rage!

No doubt in anyone's mind.. the young Ranger mutant~ 'living star' is NOT one to be threatened!  As he strode out, with the look of someone with a new mission already in mind... leaving scorch mark footsteps and suddenly floating dust motes & small debris in his wake...
This message was last edited by the player at 04:52, Fri 04 Dec 2015.

Ohphelia slipped back into the shadows and out the back of the building she gave Wilbur a few moments to leave and traced his steps making sure he'd not left a gift for them or that he contacted anyone else to surprise them as they left.

OOC:07:58, Today: Ophelia rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  perception roll.
07:57, Today: Ophelia rolled 12 using 1d20+11.  stealth roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:58, Fri 04 Dec 2015.

 She flicked an eyebrow at the Wilbur thing and snorted in amusement and stood up tall and straight before turning to take her shade for that beings presence.

Wilbur doesn't try any funny business and the rest of the day passes without incident. All too soon it will be the next morning and time to leave.

If you have any more Compton stuff to do go ahead in the thread, but here we will skip to the next morning. So where are you headed?

In the main room of the Last Chance, Bedlam hauls one of the extra sturdy chairs (a solid block of wood, actually) over to an unoccupied table with room for the rest of the crew. He orders a bowl of stew and a mug of the house beer while waiting for the crew to assemble.

To the other patrons the conversation at the crew's table flows in halting snippets. Among the crew, however, the telepathic discussion carries many more details.

Bedlam grins broadly at Thunderbird. "Thanks for sticking up for Zee, T-bird. Think you could teach me to read?"

Once the flames have cooled down a little Bedlam turns to Arcus. "Thanks for putting up with my moral ambivalence, Arcus. As I'm sure you've already realized, most of us common folk have our hands full just surviving. I, for one, am glad you are willing to pursue higher ideals. Even if they do complicate negotiations. So, how did your meeting go with the mayor?>"

[OOC: this space intentionally left blank for sidebar conversations.]

At some point the giant turns the conversation to their next delve.

"As usual, we have several options:

- We could follow up on the Red Guard invite. ~I don't have any intention of joining them, but the chance to cross the Sleeth bridge and scout some new salvage spots could make the trip worthwhile.~

- We could go see if anything is left to salvage from the Porker base."

~We could see about opening discussions with the Gren. If they'll talk to us after what we did to the Porkers.~

- We could check out the Badder market at Caiger Mall. ~See what we can learn about the operation. They're scattered all over. We'll want to keep them that way if we're going to survive long enough to disrupt their slave trade.~

"Personally, I would like to check in with our associates, ~the Dabbers ~ "and swing by the Restorationist outpost" ~to see if Wilbur's opponents have any use for us.~ "and continue developing our map to the Financial District." ~I know, the place is only a rumor, but imagine the swag!~

 Stopping part way thru her sandwich as she heard Bedlam mention going to the badders, stunned with the idea of having anything to do with those people. The memories came flooding back into her mind of how close she came to one of their slaves and she knew she would have most likely died while being held by them.

 "No Badders!, i dont want to see them again unless i am driving a tank, loaded for bear." She blinked her eyes to clear the moisture off of them and to think of something else for awhile.

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 24):

Arcus stormed out of the meet clearly determined to take action.... he started heading for the Mayor's Office again... but as he walked through the streets it was clear the direction he was heading was similar at least for the most part as the rest of the party...

He also saw the reaction his enraged mood made upon the peaceful citizens walking by... hair afire, his footsteps leaving sooty ashes in his wake and his mutant 'banner' effect straining to manifest~ fear and distress folks scurrying out of his way quickly trying not to meet his glowing eyes...

It was not the kind of reaction he wanted to inspire in people he wanted to help, inspire, teach, and protect.  It was NOT what a Ranger should do~ bring fear and dread.

Arcus forced himself to calm down... as he walked... pondering what he Wanted to do compared to what was the wisest thing he Should do!

Looking over at his companions they were clearly heading to the Last Chance Inn... away from his goal... but what he was planning to do would affect them.. and without their having a say.  That did not sit right with him.. this was a matter he would need their help to resolve... 'going off half-"cooked"...', like his father always told him when his temper got the best of him was not fair to them when their lives would be effected with his actions.

So.. reluctantly.. Arcus swallowed his anger and followed the rest of his team in to the main room of the Last Chance.

He sat and brooded... trying to think of how best to 'sell'... his rather provocative idea...

He sits mulling it over in his thoughts when Bedlam speaks up and his grimaces slightly at his question... not in anger.. just a little consternation as it derailed his train of thought somewhat...

Arcus sighs, "Aye...er want ta ...apologize fur loose mah temper back there.  Not very professional... its not the Ranger way!  It was a bit disrespectful o' your leadership o' the group Mistah Bedlam sah, A'hm sorry.  Ah've always had something o' a short-fuse... an tha' traitorous, backstabbing, piece of junk got me riled... cause, 'Gettin' in his way...', is jus' what I aims ta do!  If'n he's planning to disturb tha' peace around here or hurt Gren folks cause he's got no manners as ta' ask fur wha' he might want out o' them... like any civilized folks!  AN~ If'n there's gonna be an Ending.. it will be HIS slagged 'can' on the scrap pile! I don' like bullies nor murderous types who think they can threaten folks ta' git their ways~ its EVERYTHING I formed the Rangers ta STOP!"

The heat in the room begins to climbs a bit... and he sighs.. forcefully calming himself back down again.

"Ah spoke with tha' mayor .. she is as sure as the holy glow ..tha' mos' lovely woman I've evah laid eyes on.. Ah swear!  But she seemed real nice and interested in my ideas ta train other's as got what it takes in their hearts ta be RANGERS.  She even liked tha' idea o' Thunderbird's library.. though they don' have many books here in Compton.  I expanded somewhat on tha' idea to start a really big school here in Compton ta teach folks how to read and educate tha' youth ' Compton so tha' they have tha' tools to rebuild civilization.. and hopefully learn from tha' mistake o' tha' Ancients.. and not repeat them!  She said I don' think small..heh.. but she seemed right pleased with tha' ideas, but mentioned it will take lots o' salvage to fund such a project."

"But.. Mistah Bedlam sah... you made some good points... things in wha you said about things we could do."

"Wilbur may not represent the direct actions of the Restorationists.. he may be acting on his ownself!  We need ta Know tha' truth o' tha' before we decide ta' do anything!"

"Also.. way ah see it, we should find out what the Mayor's relationship with the Gren Village and her Community here in Compton is?  We might want to suggest or even lead a delegation to open a more formal peaceful relation with the Gren... and warn tha' mayor tha' Wilbur may be plotting to stir some crap up if he is looking for mercs ta attack their village!  Could cause reprisals on Compton even though they got nothing ta' do with it!"

He pauses and smiles, "An, thank ya kindly fur tha' complement Mistah Bedlam sah!  I'm nothing special.. jus a common man too!  Got nothing to my name than the clothes on mah back and some weapons in mah hands ah managed ta salvage.  Everyone in tha' world who knew Ah evah existed is dead and buried by these two hands... back in the ruins of what was once mah home; other than you fine folks! Ah got nothin'... only a desire ta help.. and try ta make a betah world fur other folks ta live in an enjoy.  But it sure is nice ta' know someone notices!"

Arcus looks over at Rose and his gaze softens, "..Ah know wha' ya mean miss Rose... tha idea o' being enslaved is terrifying to any free sentient being... but tha' Badders are a part o' the Wastedlands tha' Ancients left us all!  They got as much right ta' live as anyone else... eventually all sentient folks have GOT ta put past hurts in tha' past and come ta an agreement ta work for a betah tomorrow... one hopefully in peace!  Eventually, tha'  is gonna involve tha' Badders.  Ah'm sure not all Badders are slavers... an they want jus' tha' same things you do ma'am~ to live, grow and prosper in peace!  Sometimes... it takes a bit more than jus' courage to extend the hand of peace when you've been bit before... sometimes it take a little faith too!"

[OOC: Sorry it took so long to get this posted..real busy...!]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Sat 19 Dec 2015.

 She blinks in surprise and truthfully confusion at the long diatribe at Bedlam. Her mind while tuned to things mechanical, really has to work out long speeches from those around her.

 "Ummm, ok".

Bedlam chuckles. "Ah, little sis, I like the way you think, even if I probably couldn't fit in a tank. But the Porkers were the only ones strong enough to keep the Badders in check. Now that we've taken them out, the Badders will start expanding their reach -- as will Wilbur. Their market is supposed to be neutral territory. It's probably the best place for us to go in order to find out more about them - expose their weak points - discover their motives. While I would be personally satisfied to pound any Badder slaver into the mud, I can't say I want to go raiding their dens and killing their pups. Like Arcus said, eventually we'll need to convince them to stop slaving. That'll take more than a tank."

"Though... a tank would be nice if we visit their market. Word of our disagreement with their Soup Kitchen staff has probably spread around by now. And I don't think this new growth," the giant strokes his newly sprouted beard with an equally furry hand. "Will be much of a disguise."

Bedlam then addresses some of Arcus' ideas.


"I believe Wilbur is still the leader of the Restorationists; as such, many of them will follow his directions without question - especially if it is something as simple as burying a troublesome, or meddlesome, salvage crew. More importantly, it means he still has access to some screaming hot tech. He probably won't consult any committees if he decides to take us out himself. And if there are repercussions after we're gone, well... we won't get to enjoy them."


"Well, I had always heard the Gren were a bunch of cannibals - you know, they live in the woods! And much as I love my baby sister," he indicates Flora with a nod and a smile. "The thought of being surrounded by a bunch of trees and bushes just gives my the willies."

"That said, we need to be careful about who we approach. Compton is more likely to ally with the Restorationists than the Gren - they're closer and the Mayor likes tech."

The giant shakes his shaggy head. "Orbits we're walking a tricky line trying to keep two groups of potential allies from becoming enemies."

"It might make more sense... since Greenleaf Park is close to the Sleeth Bridge... to follow up with the Red Guard, then use the opportunity to wander close to the Gren territory. Maybe we'll get real lucky and bust up a Badder raid on the park."

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 28):

Arcus looks at Bedlam... with an expression of deep respect then smiles, "...this is why Ah decided to hold mah peace during the negotiations... an follow yur lead on tha' matter, Mistah Bedlam Sah!  You have a sane, level-headed, practical approach to matters tha' can sometimes be betah than all tha' 'righteous fire & brimstone' of mah high-ideals an ethics!  'One can be perfectly in tha' "right" and yet end up DEAD wrong!'... I trust yur judgment on tha' mattah!"

He nods satisfied, his hair slowly extinguishing back to its normal bright-red tousled lockes of hair as his emotions and anger dissipate as well.

"Ah can get behind tha' goin' to the Sleeth Bridge ta' find out 'bout tha' Hoops - Red Army.. and use tha' as an excuse ta look up the Gren ...with caution, o' course!"

You head out into the Suburbs making for the South River Bridge, a six hour journey. Soon you are in unfamiliar territory trusting entirely to the map. You are midway through the ruins of some sort of municipal facility, when something occurs...

I am assuming like last time that Bedlam and Crinkles are pushing carts and everyone else is looking out for Trouble. Thunderbird, I will assume you are not flying more than a few feet off the ground. I was a little generous last time, but high flying scouts can easily get attacked by nasty flying monsters. Up to you, but bear it in mind!

So everyone who isn't pushing a cart roll Perception please :)

 Keeping the area under watch she marches along with her eye roaming for trouble.

07:22, Today: Rose rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  perception chk

Arcus is watching warily at the shadows... always moving from cover to cover... pausing occasionally to peer about with his Binoculars into the distance ahead... and behind their route of travel.

15:32, Today: Arcus rolled 25 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 18.  Arcus Perception roll.
With Binoculars Roll 30!

"I would not have a problem teaching you or anyone of the group how to read." Thunderbird said "Lets keep our eyes open for any books that we find and a small chalk board or something so I can write the letters and some words to start with. Maybe your ability to transmit your thoughts might help the others quickly learn. As you read things, you can send it to the others. Just no telling what the word is if I ask them." he said with a grin.

With the group assembled to head to check out the Red Guards. Thunderbird scouted ahead, using the buildings as he flew low to the ground.

01:20, Today: Thunderbird rolled 15 using 1d20+11.  Perception.

While Thunderbird was the eye in the sky Ophelia raced out into the rubble to be the eye on the ground


OOC:08:32, Today: Ophelia rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  perception roll

With the aid of his ancient tech Arcus is able to spot the badder lookout atop a battered steel tower in the centre of the facility. It is clear that the badder has spotted the party, but Arcus can tell he doesn't realise he has been spotted himself...

You are still far enough away to make a detour and avoid the encounter if you want.

Arcus moves forward to Bedlam's side to whisper...

'We gots a Badder in a watch-tower ahead.. right at about 2 o'clock... maybe 220 yards or so.  Square in the middle o' tha compound.  He's spotted us.. but don' know we seen him... yet... ah think.'

Then Arcus slips back to his position on the cart but unslings his megashotgun.. awaiting Bedlam's telepathic commands...
This message was last edited by the player at 23:12, Tue 05 Jan 2016.

Ophelia hugs the shadows of a ruined building and watched the Badder from her location and waited for Bedlam to contact her with instructions

Bedlam squints up at the sun.

"Good spot for a break!" he calls to the crew and signals Thunderbird to come in.

The giant lowers the cart handles to the ground and takes a small sip of water from a jug as he surveys the area.

His thoughts go out to the crew. ~Ophelia, stay hidden. Arcus spotted a badder ahead in that tower. Don't look at it - we don't think he knows we've eyed him.~

Bedlam walks back to where Crinkles has parked his cart.

"Not a bad day, weather-wise," he says, scanning back along their path.

He takes out the map, to make some notes.

~We could skirt this area, or go see what he's guarding. Preferences?~

OOC: Can we get a more detailed description of the "municipal facility"?
One large building?
Several buildings which used to form a compound?
An open yard where they used to park lorries?

Are there other watch towers / observation posts?

 Though she had been told not to look she glanced around the area to have a idea of what was around them at this moment and to see if something was moving or watching them when her eyes swept past them.

 "I would most likely ask who is the tribe holding that the guard is with first?, before we stir up more trouble with the other tribes around here..still it would be nice to have another engine or the parts to start building another engine.

 Ummm, what would be really nice would be to find a refinery and be able to make our own fuel, then we could build motorcycles or cars and move fast."

 The more she began talking about building engines the more excited she was becoming and it was showing with her hands gesturing about in pantomime with her words.

Ophelia listened to Bedlam's mental message and hugged the shadows even more, her crossbow loaded in at the ready

Arcus sat down with his megashotgun in a location that 'conveniently' provided him cover from the Badder in the guard tower smokestack... but not far enough away that he could not let Bedlam hear his thoughts.

{Ah like Rose's point.. we really don' know who tha Badder works fur. Ta assume all are in tha' same slaver tribe is prejudging him.  Perhaps tha best action might be ta' have Thunderbird... jus' directly confront him and ask what his allegiances are?}

Speaking up, "Securing a reliable fuel source fur tha' town o' Compton.. would be a worthy cause an a step in tha' right direction fur civilization...!"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:49, Thu 14 Jan 2016.

Bedlam makes a few notes on the map, then holds it at arm's length and turns, as if comparing it to the surroundings.

~Badders can't change their stripes,~ the giant's animosity carries clearly with his thoughts.

Aloud, he asks, "Anybody see any territorial markings? Indications this a claim has been filed for this turf?"

~Thunderbird won't have to go ask. They've seen us, so they are already preparing for our arrival. It's just a question of whether they will announce their presence or attempt to remain hidden. And I think the sentry would have taken cover if their intent was the latter.~

"So it seems the consensus is to meet them. Let's advance a little, find a spot that won't put us at a complete disadvantage, and flag down the sentry. We wait until their delegation comes out to meet us."

~Meanwhile, Ophelia quietly scouts for tunnel entrances, and Thunderbird finds a perch to watch our back. I don't want them sneaking up behind us.~

"Thoughts?" he asks, carefully folding up the map and stowing it beneath his dented VW breastplate.

"Got a white flag for Arcus to take with him?" Thunderbird asked the others before heading off to watch the rear as instructed.

 Blinking her eyes at the question of markers for this claim?. She went ahead and took a unmoving look around the area for signs saying this is our claim, "I did not see anything around where i am, though i am staying behind this broken piece of concrete, so may not have seen everything....Ummm, what does a claim look like?."

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 42):

Arcus nods, "Ah'm good with tha!"

Arcus reaches into his travel pack and pulls out a length of bandaging cloth he uses for binding wounds in the field. Shifting his grip on his Megashotgun to take the barrel in hind he ties the length of white cloth to the butt of the firearm...

Holding the weapon by the barrel away from the trigger and grip to hold it like a make-shift flag, shrugging "...think this 'll work?"

Bedlam gives Arcus' parley flag a curt nod. "Seems clear enough to me," he says, picking up the cart handles.

"How about the wall of that outlying building?" he points to a spot up ahead. "It's not too close and it'll give us cover on one side while the route forward or back is still open."

You proceed as planned, taking a defensive position around a half-gutted pump house, signalling the sentry and awaiting developments. After five tense minutes you are approached by a lone badder slavemaster. He stops a few metres away.

"You are the crew that attacked the Soup Kitchen dig. What do you want?"

~Why do they always ask the hard questions?~

Bedlam gives the badder a dismissive shrug. "You thought we might make good slaves; we thought otherwise. An unfortunate misunderstanding."

"Let's say we don't repeat it, huh?"

The giant indicates the crew with a nod. "We are a salvage crew exploring the Sprawl for baubles and trade goods. Doing our best to acknowledge when others make reasonable claims on certain areas. Wouldn't do to weasel in on someone else's dig."

"Looks like you've got an operation going here," his lamppost swings slowly from the direction of the tower to the fence line. "We might be open to some trade when we pass through the area. Save you the hassle of hauling your goods all the way to market."

The badder looks unimpressed."Unless you're selling slaves you have nothing we want. We heard what you did to the Troika dig at the Kitchen.... I should be gutting you, not talking. Then again, we heard it was you that did for the Cook". The badder gives a toothy grin. "Plus the Troika are bastards. So here's what we'll do, you take the long way round next time and we'll call it even"

 The badders voice was loud enough to overhear and she could feel a creepy crawly sensation along her body as the memory of her near capture rose up and urged her to flee away from the slaver.

 The war within her mind bothered her with wanting to flee and wanting to put a shaft into the head of the guard out there who was telling them to get lost and go around their turf.

 "We going to run from them again?."

Ophelia moved into the tunnels and hugged the shadows waiting for Bedlam to further instructions



OOC:14:47, Today: Ophelia rolled 24 using 1d20+11.  stealth roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:47, Wed 10 Feb 2016.

Bedlam's thoughts reach Rose and the crew as he continues negotiations with the badder. ~Patience, sis. All in good time.~

"That was the Troika?!" Bedlam seems surprised.

"I must confess," he apologizes with all the sincerity he can muster. "I am not very good at distinguishing between your clans. I hesitate between the two offenses of asking your clan name, and leaving without knowing. May I be so bold as to ask?"

The giant waits for the badder's reply before continuing.

"Given this excellent den," he again takes in the compound with compliment. "I am sure yours is among the most powerful of the clans. And while I understand your primary trade is slaves, still... slaves work better when they are fed. And when they have tools. And a dominant clan needs weapons and ammunition in addition to slaves. And cubs grow proud and strong when their elders give them shiny tech to adorn their den..."

The giant pauses, allowing the badder time to further consider the economics of trade.

OOC:
15:19, Today: Bedlam Jones rolled 24 using 1d20+16.  Interaction. Get badder to reveal clan name.

Arcus remains silent... as he has nothing civil to say to the Badder slaver... however he does remove the 'white-flag' of truce from his gun barrel.. though he doesn't actually point his Megashotgun at the Badder sentry.

The temperature of the area goes up and his hair ignites to its usual corona of shifting bright flames... clearly from the young Ranger's blazing eyes and expression he wants nothing less than to start killing Badders one by one, however long it takes, until they get the point that slaving is 'bad for business'.

But he hold's his piece.

His expression hardens when Bedlam infers opening trade with these miscreant curs... clearly he is opposed to such...

~Crew, do not confuse what I am saying with what I am doing. Charging into a badder den is likely to leave some, if not all of us bleeding out or in shackles. We need information. So I need to find common points of discussion.~

~Or do you want me to just ask this furry mug to muster the troops so we can meet them on the glorious field of battle?~

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 54):

Arcus hears the Giant man's thoughts in his mind and his own thoughts come back with conviction...

{"Ah'm not interested in starting a fight that gits us all killed neither... but Ah'll be DAMNED if'n Ah'm gonna be a party-ta givin' 'aid an material support' to a bunch of dirt-bag slavers! Tha' idea that sentient free-willed beings are property ta be bought, used and sold like some pair o' ole shoes~ is not only offensive its jus' plain WRONG and EVIL at its core!  Ah'll have nothing civil ta' do with anyone who practices enslaving free-minded sentients.. tha' includes trading peacefully with them~ jus' so they can continue slaving!  I don't deal~ nice-like, with folk as spread oppression, suffering, fear and terror... nor scum-bag slavers!  As far as Ah'm concerned~ they git ONE chance... ta free their slaves and abandon slaving entirely... or they will face fiery DEATH at mah hands!  Slaving is EVIL and it is rapacious as 'everyone who is FREE is threatened as long as ANYONE is allowed to be forced ta' live in chains!'  I'll NOT abide tha'.. no sir, Mistah Bedlam~ Ya have ta STAND fur somethin'! So you can talk all's you want.. but if'n your planing on being friendly with these evil peoples.. then It might be best for me ta seek other companions!"}
This message was last edited by the player at 11:33, Tue 16 Feb 2016.

"We are the Burner clan" says the badder reluctantly. "I'll talk to the boss about your offer. See that?" - he indicates a rusting street light at the edge of the compound - "You see a red flag there when you come back, we can trade. You see nothing, walk away and stay away".

"Understood," Bedlam nods perfunctorily down at the badder. The word also seems to resonate through his thoughts in reply to Arcus.

The giant turns crisply. "Let's go, crew. We need to find an alternate route."

~Stay hidden if you can, Ophelia. Join us two blocks back the way we came as soon as it is clear. Thunderbird, be sure they can see you watching our back.~

Pulling the handcart, Bedlam pauses near the rusting street light to again make note of the landmarks. Then he leads the crew back the way they came until the rubble of the Sprawl has put a few turns between them and the Burner clan compound.

In a relatively open area which may once have been an intersection of roads he calls a halt. "This looks like a good spot to wait for Ophelia."

"So I've been thinking," he says. "Working with Arcus' premise that the badders must give up their slaves or face death at our hands, what do the badders use the slaves for? And what would they do without them? Is this something which will lend itself to a sudden transition? Or should we just skip all the tedious negotiations and assume their answer is 'no'. Then we can just attack them on sight, and inform any survivors to advise their kind to find another line of work?"

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 57):

Arcus visibly clams down ... his corona of firey hair settling to it usual freakishly bright-red long hair and the heat in the air dissapating.  He sighs and comments.

"Ah'm... appologizing Mistah Bedlam sah, you handled tha' far betah than I likely would have!  Ah knows you all haven't signed up ta' fight no war against evil...jus' cause Ah'm here.. and Ah thank ya fur considering mah convictions on tha' matah!"

"As fur them Badders... If'n tha' is yur all in agreement ta' deal with them as they deserves... Ah, would prefer we handle them with stealth first.  Sneak into or, at least-ways, near their compounds and start tallyin' what their numbers and defenses are as best as we can determine.  Then decide how best to break their control.  Tha' aftermath o' a successful liberation ideally, Ah, would like ta' see the Badders hire their 'workers' fur fair pay and treatment for their work in their salvage workcamps with tha' freedom ta leave an go else where if'n things are not to their liking.  It would encourage tha' Badders to treat their employees much nicer to convince them to stay and work.. yet not ruin their society... hopefully."

"But before all o' tha' we need to know.. if the Restorationists are supplying them with new tech... like those nullification collars. We also, Ah think, needs ta' hire a few more guns.. ah'd say maybe four merc types ta help back us up?  Them Badders ain't stupid they will be lookin' fur us an ready.. plus Ah'm sure they are the type ta' hold grudges!"

"But all tha' takes funds to trade for info and for hired help..so.. {sigh}... despite mah desire ta' help those slaves... Ah think we needs to make a score o' some good salvage first!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:42, Thu 18 Feb 2016.

Ohpelia mentally nodded and slipped deeper into the shadows. She waited until the group were clear of the Badders then slipped out and away from the area.

She circled round and came towards the group from the opposite direction.


OOC:11:17, Today: Ophelia rolled 20 using 1d20+11.  stealth roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:18, Fri 19 Feb 2016.

Thunderbird nodded before making a display of flying as he rode the thermals, keeping an eye on the badders down below. As he flew, he mentally mapped out the defenses in case they would be needed to assault the territory.

---

17:18, Today: Thunderbird rolled 26 using 1d20+11.  Perception.

 She was staring at the badder with a ugly expression and shifted her hvy xbow towards where the badder was floating and blocking their way.

 I dont think we should have any doings with these badders, they are all the same. Her thoughts hammered the group/Bedlam.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:40, Fri 19 Feb 2016.

~You are not alone in that thought, sis.~


"While I might not feel the same... motivation, I am, in general, in agreement with your the desired outcome."

"Yeah. Not our strong suit. But we could certainly scout their perimeter, see which paths they use, look for someplace we can watch from. Maybe start a propaganda war by posting anonymous signs advocating workers' rights."

Bedlam pauses.

"We will need more provisions for such a protracted campaign..."

"What about the rest of you," the giant addresses the crew. "Most of you signed up on the premise of making a better life for yourself by salvaging the Sprawl. Poking a badder might yield some swag, but we could just as easily avoid that fight."

Thunderbird headed back to rejoin the group. "For the time being we can avoid the Badders. If we are going to deal with them, we can start starving them of slaves so that they have to travel further. Once they start doing that, we can start hitting their raiding parties piece by piece to the point that they would feel safer staying at home. However, since nature abhors a vacuum, we need to be able to provide them with other means of supporting themselves. Maybe we need to research them further to see what talents they have that would be more useful to them (and us) in a civilized society." he said

Ophelia looked at those gathered round her, she'd promised herself she'd not get close to another group again after her last were killed but damn it she cared about these dirtbags " I will go with the majority, I joined you to help you make a better life for us all. I'm tired of killing for the sake of it and lost too many good friends to count. BUT if my family is attacked I will protect them. If my family decide to go on the attack then I will go to protect them, and sadly I seem to have chosen you lot as my family" she said with a smile

Bedlam listens to what the crew has to say, nodding his head.

"Ok. Seems we are agreed in that we don't like badders or their chosen profession. Seems we are also agreed that eliminating them, or converting them to a new economic enlightenment will require more resources than we have with us at this time. So we need to continue this discussion round the fire. In the interim, let's gather more info about this den."

He pulls out the map and makes some marks. "T-bird, is 'burner' spelled with an 'i' or an 'e'?"

"This looks like the main approach to the den. Assuming the fenceline is the primary demarcation, let's circle around that way, looking for other paths leading in. Remember, they like to dig."

"When we get to the far side, we will continue making our way toward the Sleeth Bridge."

"And, um, now that we've got this Burner group on conversational terms, when we come across any badders in the future do we just want to attack them on sight?"

Arcus speaks up, "Well.. much as I hates slaving.. and am not to fond of those who practice it... jus' attackin' someone cause they look like they might be is not fair nor polite civilized-like!  So.. naw, ah'm against jus' attackin' on sight.  Ah'm, not at war with Badders... ah've taken an issue with SLAVERS... whatevah race or species is engaged in tha' odious profession!  Actin' like Evil Folks, is no way ta be betah than them~ as Good people!  So ah say we do jus' what we did this time.. we be polite and neighborly respect their territory... but be sure as ta' get a full accounting o' what they consider their lair... an politely leave them alone~ until we have enough intel to attack and break up their activities!  If'n they attack us.. well .. they get what they asked fur.. no exceptions... and no more niceties!"

The young mutant ranger crossess his arms, "..well thas mah piece o' mind on tha' matah...!"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:31, Thu 03 Mar 2016.

Crinkles looks from one to another of the crew members while they discuss the offing of the clan of Badders.  He stretches his long arms after a bit and asks, "Crinkles wonders if we tell other badders we work for Clan Burner, if that might get them to leave us alone?"

He looks at Arcus, "Crinkles does not say we do work for badders.  Just tell a lie."  He shrugs his large shoulders as if to say it was just an idea, the hood of the pickup moving up and down with his motions.

"Not go to war with Clan Burner, Crinkles thinks.  Too many dead right now."

"Alright - continue talking before smashing skulls," Bedlam shrugs, absently scratching at the shaggy fur on his neck. "I don't know how you deal with all this fur, Crinkles. Can't believe I'm looking forward to the next flux."

"Now let's get moving - we're wasting daylight."

Grasping the handles of his cart the giant coaxes the crew to start circling the badder compound.

~T-bird and Ophelia scout high-low. Rose, follow up on anything that needs a closer look. Arcus, rear guard. Remember, not likely to be much salvage this close to the badders, so we're looking for their bolt holes and sally ports for now.~

"Burner with an "E". B-u-r-n-e-r, like in EPROM burner." Thunderbird said, listening to the conversation. "We could say that we know the Burner's but that might open a whole new can of worms if someone has an axe to grind with them."

With the order to take the high point, Thunderbird took off into the sky.

Ophelia gave a mental nod and was off at a long legged run before dropping onto all fours and leaping over a pile of rubble and was suddenly out of sight


OOC:
10:33, Today: Ophelia rolled 20 using 1d20+11.  stealth roll.
10:32, Today: Ophelia rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  perception roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:34, Fri 18 Mar 2016.

 Glad to be away from any badders, she moved off in the direction that everyone else was going. As she walked she took down he hvy xbow and looked at the design, of the torque bars and began to think about how to improve it..maybe mount a scope on it or add a box to make it a bit faster loading.

Crinkles falls in with the main group.  "Fur keeps Crinkles warm," he says with a shrug.

He checks the straps on his pickup and confirms that his auto-cannon is in place as he walks along.

The party performs a wide sweep of the Burners' compound under the suspicious eyes of the badder sentries.

Everyone make a Perception roll. Are you moving on the the South River after your scouting mission?

OOC:07:24, Today: Ophelia rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  perception roll.

This message was deleted by the player at 12:24, Mon 21 Mar 2016.

05:22, Today: Rose rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  perception chk.

10:23, Today: Thunderbird rolled 18 using 1d20+11.  perception.

11:32, Today: Arcus rolled 15 using 1d20+12.  Arcus Perception roll +7{+12 w/Binoculars}.

Arcus merely nods to the group's directions and takes up position on the back of the Wagon the Giant leader sets to pulling.

He rests the Mega-Shotgun across his knees and keeps as watchful an eye out for any Badder treachery or other threats.. using his binoculars that hang from the strap at his neck.

Crinkles keeps his eyes peeled as he looks about.

11:26, Today: Crinkles rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Perception.

You circle the camp, but only Thunderbird notices something useful. From the air, he notes the pattern of manhole covers leading to and from the Burner's base. If they are anything like their cousins, this is almost certainly one of their routes in or out of the base.

"Manholes, huh? Those things were not designed with men of my stature in mind," Bedlam comments when Thunderbird reports his observations. "Nice work, T-bird."

"We're getting pretty far afield from our usual range. That means new opportunities for getting rich and getting killed. Let's continue toward the river. Once there, we can decide which way to turn."

OOC: Yes, continue into The South River District.

Crinkles is careful to avoid the manhole covers, never know when one might pop open and allow him or Bedlam to get their legs stuck in it.  Or worse, when something might pop out and try to eat them.

He follows after Bedlam.

 She felt the slow anger against the slavers, even though she had only been captive for a few minutes before the others rescued her, but that feeling of being helpless gave her the anger and the desire to strike back at any who would choose to do such a thing against their will.

 She began following the others still wrapped in her darkness of thoughts.

"The manholes might be too small for you to go into the sewers but we can pile junk on them so the badders have less places to come out. We can even spread the word that there is some creatures down there that pop up and snatch people to keep others from removing the rubble." Thunderbird suggested

Following your map as best you can you progress through the suburbs and down towards the South River bridge. As you approach the river, the building seem in better repair, with fewer half-collapsed structures surrounded by rubble. However, many of the building are sealed up tight, with bricked-over windows and iron plating blocking doors. You see no sign of anyone, but there is watchful quality to the empty streets. A few blocks away, according to the map, is the bridge, where the Sleeth control access. Downriver is Greenleaf park, where the Gren make their lair. Upstream is terra incognita. Sunset is less than half an hour away...

Wasn't sure if you were planning to cross the bridge, so I left you a few blocks away.

 She paused as the streets once again split into different directions. Some she could guess where known enemies or possibly allies had their strong holds set up.

 "So what direction now?". Her eyes eyed the setting sun "And we should find a place ta hold up before pushing into unknown areas."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Tue 05 Apr 2016.

Arcus speaks up lifting his visor on his golden plate helm... having seemingly been asleep most of the journey, "Ah'm-a thinkin' we should find a defensible campsite or at least a somewhat concealed one and camp fur tha' evening.  Mos' o' us got no good night vision.. and meh lighting up would be seen fur miles... ifn' its not chilly I'd suggest we make a cold camp... even if it is a bit cool tonight.. Ah' can radiate heat without light so no one should get the chills..."

He shrugs, "Least-ways tha's how Ah sees it...!"

Crinkles looks over at Arcus while he is speaking and nods at his suggestion.

Ophelia, who has been out scouting all day reappeared from the shadows." I agree both T bird and I need to rest before we go out again in the morning"

"Calling it a day works for me." Thunderbird said as he rejoined the group as the looked for a secure location to camp.

"Well, most of these buildings appear to be occupied. Or at least claimed. Someone closed them up," Bedlam shrugs. "Let's check some of those which are not sealed - see if any can work for a camp."

 She will head off to search out one of the unoccupied buildings for defense and hidden qualities.

Thunderbird joined Rose in order to provide a birds eye view while looking for a secure area to spend the night.

Arcus kicked off from his perch on the Wagon and hefted his MEGAShotgun in hand striding off to accompany Rose, with a subtle nod to Bedlam that he'd watch out for her... as he lowered his Golden Plated Visor on his helm.

Striding up next to Rose, Arcus whispers, "..jus' you tells me wha' ya wan' opened or searched okay, miss Rose?  Elseways, Ah'll jus' let you do yur scoutin' while Ah cover yur back an watch out fur hostile critters an such..."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:56, Sun 10 Apr 2016.

Ophelia jumped up onto a ruined wall and crouched, she looked just like a large cat sunning herself but in fact from her position she could see in all directions around the wagon and still keep an eye on the three heading off to one of the nearby buildings

OOC:09:49, Today: Ophelia rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  perception roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:49, Mon 11 Apr 2016.

The best place you can find in the limited daylight turns out to be a rubble-strewn, overgrown plot between two boarded up warehouses. There are signs of previous campfires. And splashes of old blood. There is something written in faded-red spray-paint on one wall, underneath a skull-and-crossbones. Thunderbird translates: Beware the Ripper.

Will you camp here? Alternatives are: camp on the street, breaking into a building, travelling at night, crossing the bridge... and many more :)

 Reading the warning she frowns and sits down amid the trash and kinda pushes it off to the side. "This is as good as any spot, lets bring the others up."

 Standing up she examines the room for defense and possible spots that enemies might use for infiltration to the group.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:13, Mon 11 Apr 2016.

Arcus nods in response to Rose ... but his expression at seeing the old splashes of blood garners a frown from him.

Without letting Rose out of his sight, even for a second; he steps back and gestures the Team forward. He regards the boarded up warehouses curiously... and when everyone gathers says, "...I know we alls want ta' be neighborly an polite-like... but I'd rather know whats in these buildings or why these buildings have been boarded up? If'n there folks here as want ta stay hidden thas' jus fine.. but how are we ta know they ain't jus' abandoned and hiding hostile critters hopein' ta catch us unawares?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:16, Mon 11 Apr 2016.

"Looks like they've found a spot," Bedlam gives Crinkles a grin, nodding toward where Arcus beckons.

As he pulls the cart from rubble-strewn street into the rubble-strewn grass and weeds between buildings he notices the universal symbol for danger on one of the walls.

"Wait... don't tell me... let me read it," the giant leaves his cart and moves closer to the wall. Silently he mouths the letters for several seconds before turning to the crew with a triumphant grin.

"Be wary the ripper!"

"Agreed. Crinkles, let's position the carts to block that approach to the campsite; we'll have to leave the other side open for now. Then we'll take a quick peek into these buildings."

Bedlam looks up toward the tops of the flanking walls. "What do the roofs look like, T-bird? Maybe we should set camp on higher ground."

Crinkles nods and grabs his side of the cart and helps the giant man move the cart into a good defensive position.

He smiles at Bedlam's ability to read.  Good to see others learning their letters.  It was more than Crinkles ever hoped for.

"I can take a look to see what the roofs look like but unless the rest of you just learned to fly, the problem with higher ground means that if you have to leave in a hurry, you have to run down stairs, climb down a ladder or fly. I will agree that it is a good idea to have someone watching from the roof, just not all of us, and buildings tend to have very few exits." Thunderbird said before scouting the roof tops.

OOC:Perception 17:34, Today: Thunderbird rolled 19 using 1d20+11.  check out the roof tops.

In reply to Thunderbird (msg # 102):

Arcus speaks up, "Well.. I can fly... fur short bursts {Blazing Rocket-Utility power} and.. I can leap from any height fur no harm... gravity kinda being mah friend an all.. 'living star' y'know~ I can probably carry someone wit meh.. if theys a little petite or light.. like Rose or Ophelia.  Aye's jus' don't see why we can't jus' secure some ropes to the rooftops and if'n we needs to skedaddle fast... jus' throw the ropes over the side an slide down tha' ropes to tha' ground and git?  Campin' on tha' roof would be safer from wandering trouble... as long as the buidlings aren't hostile!!"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:44, Wed 13 Apr 2016.

Ophelia looked over at Arcus and gave him a leisurely wink " my dear boy I get carried by one one" she purred " After all I am a cat and I can jump and climb with the best of them and haven't you ever heard the saying that cats always fall on their feet...well its true my dear ...its very true"

Arcus, flushes and briefly focuses his attention on his MEGAshotgun nervously replying, "..aheh.. yeah.. Ah was not figurin' you might have trouble gettin' on or off one of these roofs... Miss Ophelia... jus' referring ta you an Rose being petite enough fur me ta carry in flight is all.. Crinkles looks a little too bulky, Thunderbird obviously don' need help with flying and Mistah Bedlam is Waay to big fur me to lift in flight!"

To take his young mind off wondering how soft either of the lovely women might actually be Arcus walks over to one of the boarded up windows and tries to determine how long ago they were likely boarded up... years and years.. or recently?

09:19, Today: Arcus rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  Perception roll - Do boarded up windows appear a recent change?

"Crinkles not afraid of falling.  Crinkles falls good."  However, Crinkles wasn't thrilled about the idea of needing to climb up the side of the building - they would have to leave the wagon here.

 The others were busy talking about how good they were from the heights but for this time she wanted to do some different looking, she was moving about the building and searching for the quickest way to move from room to room and where the stairs were, which could be blocked or which was hidden the most from view from the ground.

 She was fairly sure those who lived around here would know how to infiltrate and dodge around troubles, so she wanted to know what they knew as well.

Thunderbird sees that rooftop access has also been boarded up on the two adjacent buildings. Arcus reckons that the buildings were sealed at the same time, a few years ago, but there are signs of ongoing maintenance. All of the doors are blocked with steel plates.

If you want to get into the building, you'll have to smash your way in. Could be noisy. Here are your options:

Prise open the steel doors. Need Str 30, two people can help. Chance of wandering monster: 4 in 6.

Smash open a boarded up window. Need Str 25, two people can help. Chance of wandering monster: 3 in 6. But harder to get out via a window than a door...

Go in through the trapdoor on the roof. Str 25, three people can help. Chance of wandering monster 2 in 6. But you have to get up to the roof...

Arcus ponders the way the buildings have been sealed up.

He steps over to Rose and gently settles and hand on her shoulder to get her attention.. to pause for a moment.

Addressing the party, "Hey team... Ah'm a thinking someone has gone through a lot of on-going trouble to seal up these buildings.. and keep em sealed!  They don't have locks or look like they've been opened recently in-fact they all look like someone regularly tries darn hard ta keep em tightly sealed! Ah'm not thinkin' its to keep us out as much as it is ta keep sumthin' sealed in.  Mayhap we ought not go opening them up 'til we done some research from tha' locals o' Compton or perhaps them 'Gren' or 'Hoops' who might live around hereabouts."

"As far as Aye can tell.. these buildings look right sealed up tight.. Ah think if'n we set up camp on tha' roof.. and we don't mess with tha' metal sealed doors.. we should be all-right fur tha' night leastways..."

"Ah'll follow Mistah Bedlam's lead on it but I think we should, 'let-sleepin'-dogs-lie', until we knows more about whas' going on!"

Lookin' over at Ophelia, "Miss Ophelia.. do you think you might be able to track whoever is maintaining these building back to where they are holed up?  Might give us some needed info on why these structures is being kept sealed... Ah'm hoping its not Badders doing the maintenance.. but we won't know until we has a looksee?"

Speaking to Rose, "Ah'm gonna get on tha' right side buildin's roof... if'n you want to come-along Miss Rose.. I can carry you up wit' meh?"

If Rose indicates yes, Arcus with VERY gentlemanly politeness and care will pick her up... mindful to keep his touch respectful.

Then with a burst of Pyrokinetic power Arcus rockets on a column of stellar plasma formed from superheated atmosphere taking flight to above the building landing with measured fiery bursts to land on the roof.  Arcus swings up his MEGA-Shotgun 'Reckoner' to cover the roof confines as he searches for any occupants.

07:56, Today: Arcus rolled 18 using 1d20+7.  Arcus Perception roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:00, Mon 18 Apr 2016.

 When he touched her she spins into full defense and the maul slipped down into her hands before her eyes told her it was only him. As he went on to describe in light terms how he would carry her 330 lbs up to the top of the building she just looked at him in bewildered open mouthed stare for several seconds.

 "So i need help is what your saying?, i am unable to to get there on my own?, is that because i am a plant?."

In reply to Rose (msg # 110):

Arcus is a bit taken back by Rose' response his expression puzzled...

"Er.. No ma'am?!? Its just there don' seem ta' be any apparent easy hand holds fur climbing the side o' these stoney-like buildings.. I kinda' figure tha's on purpose-like.  But if'n you think you can scale them walls on your ownself... then tha's jus' fine... you might be heavier than I judged by yur size anyways!"

Then he asks his expression clearly perplexed, "...why would yur bein' a plant have anything ta do with my offering to fly ya's to tha' roof.. if'n ya couldn't find hand holds ta climb it?"

He shrugs, "But suit yurself.. its clear ya believe ya got this.. jus' tryin' ta be helpful is all!"

And with that flys to the roof by himself...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:30, Mon 18 Apr 2016.

Looking over the boarded up place, Thunderbird smiled. "It looks like the treasure chest might still have the jewels still inside it." he said with a smile. "Lets see if we can get everyone onto the roof and take a look." and then paused for a moment.

"Um, before we do, lets scout around to see of anyone has tagged the building as theirs."

---

OOC:Looking to see if there are symbols that identify it as being property of any of the groups in the area.

" Arcus has a good point but there is another scenario here. What if the buildings are sealed to keep this ripper thing out and like the badders whoever sealed them is using the underground tunnels to move from building to building safely."

She jumped down from the ruined wall she'd been crouched on. " We either go high, stay low, break in to find cover or face this ripper when it comes out to play......alternatively we could just go knock on a few doors until someone answers" she added with a sly smile on her face.

Turning to Arcus " I could try to find tracks leading to who sealed the buildings but it would be difficult in these ruins and may take up too much time...." she looked up at the sky " as it is we have little enough of that before sun set and my gut feeling tells me if we are out in the open after dark we might just find out what this ripper thing is."

Arcus listens to Ophelia from his perch on the roof and slowly nods, "...yeah I see yur point Miss Ophelia... we are running out o' daylight... an tracking on concrete an stone is no easy task neither.  Ah guess it couldn't hurt to knock on some doors... I'm not figuring anyone will answer but it couldn't hurt ta' try.  It didn't seem ta' me like them doors or windows have been trafficked through with any regularity.. just kept nicely maintained ta' keep the building shut up tight.. but I'm not as skilled a tracker as you so who knows?  Ah think we're gonna have ta deal with this Ripper like or not in or out o' one of these buildings.  Ah'd rather it be outside where we have mobility, like Thunderbird's flight, on our side and not be confined by walls and doors... ta obscure our lines o' fire... an such!"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:21, Tue 19 Apr 2016.

Thunderbird doesn't notice any gang signs, but like Arcus notices the barricades seem to be the work of a single group that keeps them maintained.

Not sure you have decided on a course of action yet, Bedlam looks like it's your call.

Crinkles looks at Bedlam and says, "Crinkles thinks sleep down."  He nods his head since every one else seemed to need to give their opinion.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:33, Wed 27 Apr 2016.

Thunderbird nodded in agreement. "Agree. I think we might want to check the place out later but since it is getting dark, we might not be able to fully search the place in order to better defend it."

 She agrees with crinkles and will stay below with him.

 ooc: not much to work with in the post.

Arcus sighs... and steps off the building top to float gently to the ground... a nimbus of darkly purple energy flickering around him....

Landing he shrugs, "...Ah think staying down here is a tactically unsound idea... but I'll support tha' party."

Dropping the subject he starts preparing his camping gear for bed...
This message was last edited by the player at 21:17, Thu 28 Apr 2016.

Ophelia put a gentle hand on Arcus shoulder " unsound but challenging..." she said with a smile as she went off to make sure the area was secure

"Ground level it is," Bedlam nods. "Given the warning, let's set a double watch, and any flyers or climbers who want to take a high post are welcome."

"We've got the building walls on two sides, and the carts to complicate any approach from the third."

"Who's got cook duty tonight? I'm hungry!"

Bedlam gets about the business of setting up camp.

OOC: Is the metal across the doorway a door or a seal?
This message was last edited by the player at 19:40, Sat 30 Apr 2016.

You swiftly set up camp, blocking the access points as best you can. After a hurried meal it is time to sleep. Although weary after a long day's travel, but you all feel a deep sense of unease, which is not helped by the chill fog that drifts in from the river half an hour after nightfall...

The metal plate blacking the door is a neatly welded mix of a dozen different pieces of iron and steel.

What is your plan for watches? Normally you do single watches, but you can try a double watch if you want. However, make a Fort check DC10 or be tired tomorrow (-1 on all rolls).

In reply to The Shadow (msg # 122):

Seeing the fog begin to form... Arcus will scavenge around for pieces of flammable materials and will make torches to ring the campsite if he can six in all spread out each within 15'ft of the other to overlap their illumination of the campsite.

He shrugs, "..if'n were gonna camp down here might as well limit any useful shadows fur threats ta' use 'gainst us.  Ah prefer straight up fights myself.  Ah'll take second watch."

Its CLEAR to all that Arcus is first not pleased to be camping somewhere he truly feels is stupid and asking for trouble, and second is expecting an ambush attack and is preparing for such.

Crinkles takes the third watch.  And tries his hand at cooking dinner tonight.

Thunderbird looked over at Arcus "As a thought, we can do two watches at a time. Those of us that have means of flying and such can take a high spot to watch those on the ground." he suggested.

Arcus, smiles sadly at Thunderbird... lowering his voice, "...tha' my friend is the crux o' the issue here.  Someone being up high on their own... where none o' the rest can hear is jus' askin' ta' get singled out an attacked.  So we got ta stick together its all or nothing... tactically speakin'.  Least ways as ah sees it."

He shrugs, "...ta be totally honest.. Ah can't really guarantee camping up high is any safer, than down here.  It jus' seems ta meh critters as can't climb sheer concrete walls would not be a threat we'd need ta be worrin' over, but this 'Ripper' fella... he's no random critter... he's a souless murderer... mahap enjoys killin' jus' for the fear it creates.  Rumors are not o' him eatin' his victims..jus' leavin' em dead and sliced-up all cruel-like."

His eyes take on a stern and determined look that those who know the young mutant hero are very familiar with and he says his voice full of confidence and zeal, "Truth ta be told, Ah hope this 'Ripper' does make an appearance... huntin' down murdering varmints tha' kill innocent travelers on tha' road, spreadin' fear and sufferin'; putting a permanent-like STOP to such Monsters.. Is jus' what the RANGERS are for!!!"

Ophelia smiled at the young man and his enthusiasm " this ripper thing might well be a creature of this god forsaken world, look at us we aren't exactly human ourselves but it might even be a tactical story perpetrated by the ones that have sealed the buildings. If I wanted to keep unwanted guests away from my business what would be the easiest way to do it? scare people away."

She moved back into the light of the fire having come out of the dark after her patrol of the area " to my knowledge no one has seen the ripper and lived. only the bodies are found and the rumour starts of a monster in the area. Kill enough travellers to add fuel to that rumour and people will avoid this place like the plague.As you said the bodies aren't eaten just shredded to bits"

" we might not be looking for a ripper but a single or group of people not wanting whatever they are doing in these buildings to be found out about."

She gave another big cat like smile and stretched "although you could be right and its just some big scary critter who likes playing with its prey....a bit like a cat perhaps"

Arcus smiles and shrugs realizing his words though softly spoken are not soft enough for Ophelia's keen cat-hearing.

Nodding her direction he speaks openly, "Tha', Miss Ophelia, was also part o' why ah would have preferred an up-high camp as if'n this 'Ripper' is a group or a swarm o' critters... a high-up, hard to get to camp, might restrict how many foes or how easy it is ta' attack us at once..."

Hefting his MEGA-Shotgun... apparently~ recently stenciled on the weapon's receiver - 'RECKONER'; "...regardless, 'tha' field is already been plowed'.. an whatever happens.. Ah'm ready ta dish out some much-overdue Justice fur all those poor-folks as been savaged by this 'Ripper'.. so bring 'em on!"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:13, Wed 04 May 2016.

Bedlam and Rose take the first watch, both covering one side of the campsite. Bedlam's watch faces the river. The fog thickens, but the two giants make sure they are in sight of each other when they turn round.

About an hour into his watch, Bedlam feels a strong sense of something malevolent coming closer, and then suddenly the air deadens and something seems to suck the energy out of the surrounding air. The fog turns to ice crystals, sounds fall flat, and Bedlam feels his strength leaching away.

You Bedlam, you are within an aura than drains 1 con per round. Bedlam and Rose, roll Init. Rose, you are looking in the other direction, and sound is deadened. Each round you can try a Per check DC20 to notice what's going on behind you. Each round add +2 to the roll until you pass.

 She was silent as she let her eyes roam over the ruins around for signs of movement in the shadows but was not to aware of much save a slight chill that rolled around her the air near her.

04:20, Today: Rose rolled 16,5 using d20+1,d20+3.  Initiative, active perception.

"Sis!" Bedlam hisses over his shoulder. "Something's not..."

The giant hesitates, perhaps too long.
OOC: Bedlam Jones rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Initiative.
Suddenly he turns and bellows at the camp.
"Alarm! It's coming from the river!"

Bedlam tries to speak, but like in a nightmare his voice is little more than a pained croak, he cannot seem to summon the energy to make his vocal chords work...

Will delete everyone's posts, you are all still asleep or looking in the other direction.

Round 1. Init Order: Ripper, Bedlam.

Suddenly something horrible coalesces out of the mist in front of Bedlam. A tall, stick thin brass robot festooned with decaying organs connected by pulsing, organic looking tubes of rank sinew. Its insectile, featureless head none the less somehow focuses on the giant, and Bedlam can sense its hunger. Whip-fast, a half-metal, half-flesh pseudopod shoots out of the Ripper's body towards you. Luckily Bedlam just manages to sway out of the way of it remora-like tip.

Con drain -1 from aura. You're up Bedlam.

Unable to speak and warn the crew, Bedlam shifts to a more instinctual mode of communication, sending thoughts of alarm.

~DANGER! WAKE UP! It is attacking from the river. I feel it draining my strength.~

Reacting to the construct's whip-like attack the giant swings his lamppost.
OOC: Round 1
Bedlam Jones rolled 19 using 1d20+12.  Attack. Hvy melee vs. Ripper.
Bedlam Jones rolled 25 using 2d8+10.  Damage.

The lamp-post thuds into the Ripper with huge force, splattering the ground with foul-smelling gore, but the entity seems to shrug off the blow almost entirely. However, Bedlam's mental shout, tinged with real panic, causes everyone to struggle awake, although it seems to take an inordinately long time.

Rose spins around at Bedlam's warning and for a brief moment catches sight of the Ripper. Immediately it fades back into the mist, and after a few seconds the numbing cloud of entropy that has Bedlam in its grip evaporates back into the night, leaving both giants with confused memories of something horrible...

Arcus wakes groggily from the mental warning... turning to look at the scene...

Rolling to his feet he hefts RECKONER.. still in his grip and taking aim fires the MEGA-Shotgun at the cyborg attacker... just as it fades from view back into the mists...

Opps.. got ninja'd!

15:38, Today: Arcus rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  Arcus Initiative.

15:40, Today: Arcus rolled 18 using 1d20+8.  RECKONER' “MEGA Shotgun” shot at Cyborg 'Ripper'.

15:41, Today: Arcus rolled 13 using 2d10+8.  'RECKONER' “MEGA Shotgun” Damage.

Arcus moves next to Bedlam, "...what in tha' Hell was that, misbegotten thang?!?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:46, Wed 18 May 2016.

Arcus fires into the mist, but the Reaper has departed. For now...

hearing the commotion, Thunderbird work up, only to see the figure fade into the mist. Getting out of his sleeping bag, he grabbed his weapon and looked on the ground to see if there was any sign of it, Maybe they might be able to track it back to where it came from.

---

OOC:Never mind, rolled a 1 so unless it has a real low check (12), he failed 

Ophelia swung up onto her feet and in a crouch ready for an attack. Her eyes glowing with wild energy ready to strike at a moments notice.

he was silent as she let her eyes roam over the ruins around for signs of movement in the shadows but was not to aware of much save a slight chill that rolled around her the air near her.

04:20, Today: Rose rolled 16,5 using d20+1,d20+3.  Initiative, active perception.

Bedlam slowly pulls his gaze from the mists, turning to look down at the young firebrand. His voice, usually resonant with vibrant energy, is a hollow rasp. "Not... sure."

As if remembering for the first time he surveys the crew. "Everyone all right?"

His thoughts quickly touch each mind, gathering an answer even as the question is asked. ~Everyone here?~

"I put a pretty solid smack on it," the giant crouches to examine the ground in front of him. "Not sure if that's what drove it off, or if everybody waking up spooked it. Seems like the type of critter that would prefer to take its prey solo and quiet."

"But if it bleeds, maybe we could track it in the dark."

"T-bird, take these," he hands the Omniscient Goggles to the hawkoid. "Get airborne and see if you can spot the thing - look for heavy concentrations of the fog."

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 144):

Arcus nods solemnly, then taps Bedlam on the shoulder...gesturing for him to 'choke-up' on his grip on his Street-Lamp Huge Mace...so he can get a good look at the icor coating the weapon.

Pulling one of the cloth medical bandages he stocked up on for binding wounds he carefully wipes the icor off the head of the weapon.  Turning to Ophelia, "..I'm not sure if'n you have such talents Miss Ophelia.. but can you maybe track this creature by his scent?  We have a sample of ..whatever its made of."

Looking out into the fading mists off the river he speaks off-handedly to Bedlam, "Ah got a glimpse of it as it faded away an saw a tad o' it's attack.  It didn't move like it was swingin' a limb at you so much as part o' it jus' extended like it was partially amorphous. Not exactly sure how THAT works as it looked mostly metal with some fleshy parts kind'a draped from it~ some freky kind o' Cyborg maybe? But my point is if'n it is kinds like a spongy-like body.. perhaps physical blunt attacks have no effect on it's body.. it jus' smuoosh'es to another shape... sorta like a creature made o' water?"

"Also is it jus' me or did it suddenly chilly while it was here?  You said it felt like it was 'draining yur strength'? Perhaps its got some kinda field it creates with jus' its presence tha' drain's energy or at least has the effect o' tha' on living beings around it?  Those organs draped all over it.. look mostly decayed."

"I'd suggest we use energy weapons on it... like tha' fine laser-rifle Thunderbird is totin'! Bullets are the same as physical blows so no good with them neither... though we might be able ta' rig up some fire-arrows fur Miss Ophelia's crossbow.. jus' with some oil and tied on cloth."

"I'm not sure how effective a gravity pulse will do to a creature o' entrurpe..er endurpue.. ah.. en-tro-pee.. however its pronounced.. you get my meaning right Thunderbird.. yur the smart one?"

"Also it faded from view.. didn't vanish suddenly.. like some mutants can teleport.. maybe its not of our dimension?  Not exactly sure how ta' deal with sometin' like tha'!"


He slowly shake his head.. in almost disbelief, "Damnedest thang ..Ah Evah did see...!"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:19, Sun 22 May 2016.

"Sorry sugar your thinking of a dog....incase you haven't noticed I'm a cat." She said with a grin " oh and don't worry about my crossbow I have something far better than that to hit it with" and with that her eyes glowed with green fire
This message was last edited by the player at 19:25, Sat 21 May 2016.

"Got ya." Thunderbird said, slipping the goggles on before taking flight. Leaving the ground, he started circling clockwise upwards, looking for any signs of the creature

15:39, Today: Thunderbird rolled 26 using 1d20+12.  perception.

Thunderbird's sharp eyes quarter the ground. There is absolutely no sign of the creature save for a few tantalising wisps of mist that might be where it passed, leading towards the river...

Gliding on the thermals to be as quiet as he can, Thunderbird headed towards the river to see if there was any other indicators of the creatures passing.

OOC:Flying 40' above the ground, +30'(or more) if there is a tall building in the way.
16:03, Today: Thunderbird rolled 15 using 1d20+2.  stealth.
16:01, Today: Thunderbird rolled 30 using 1d20+12.  perception.

Despite the fog, Thunderbird's sharp eyes spy fresh prints, clearly made by a creature of metal. They lead to right up to the edge of the embankment, where the river flows swiftly by some 2 metres below...

Making note of the location, Thunderbird headed back to the group. "Looks like I found where the thing came from. Looks like it is metal and is hiding in the water."

 Glancing up at the flyer with interest, she offers " A monster made of metal?, kind like those robots at the cooks kitchen?. I wonder what powers the monster then?, does it convert those it kills into energy?, why doesn't it rust if its hiding in the river?.

 I don't know but it did remove itself when we engaged it so maybe it will leave us alone now that it knows we have teeth to bite back."

 She glanced down towards the river in a silent watch for several seconds. Turning to Bedlam she scrunched her fact in concentration and then asked him, "You said you felt funny being close to the robot?, maybe it did not like what it tasted or what ever it did to you and is even now trying to find out if it is food for itself?."

Ophelia stepped forward " You say it made you feel strange perhaps thats how it fights its prey, it befuddles the mind to allow it to have the advantage. I will go and watch the river while you set up the watch again" with that she sloped off.

"It was both metal and flesh. It made me feel weak. I could not muster the strength - or will - to cry out, though I was still able to strike at it."

"With the mists and weakness field, I can see why it would prefer to take its prey by stealth. I hit it hard, but I think it was the rest of the crew becoming aware of its presence which disrupted its plan and caused it to retreat."

The giant frowns toward the river. "I do not see how we can follow it into the river - especially at night. And we do not know if it will attempt another attack tonight."

Bedlam shrugs resignedly. "Well, try to get back to sleep. Whoever is on watch - be sure your partner is alerted if you see a fog rising - before it reaches you."

~Do not be long, Ophelia. We will all need what sleep we can get.~

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 153):

Arcus listens to all the points of view and discussion... but when Ophelia proposes to watch the river alone he speaks up, "THAT is a extremely bad ideah, Miss Ophelia!  This thing is clearly a craven coward and only likes ta strike prey it can catch unawares and alone... Ah'll go with you an watch your back... no arguments!"

With that the young mutant ranger sheaths his MEGAShotgun over his back... readies his STOP sign Shield and Ignites his "Fiery Aura" to provide clear illumination of their surroundings and follows her to the rivers edge but stays back from her position about 25'ft his hands glowing with ready "Fiery flares" to burn anything that should threaten.  And for good measure ...suddenly a shimmering field of electromagnetic force surrounds him...

Shimmershield activated...
This message was last edited by the player at 08:49, Sat 04 June 2016.

Ophelia and Arcus guard the approach from the river then return to the camp. The Ripper does not make another appearance for the rest of the evening and you all manage to snatch a few hours sleep, and awake more or less ready for another day. The fog only begins to burn off after sunrise.

Ophelia had to smile to herself Arcus was a sweet lad with a heart as big as they come but he tended to overlook one thing about her, although she didn't look it she was probably twice his age and had been taking care of herself for most of that time.

She let him come with her so she'd not have to argue with him about it. She was fine about putting herself in harms way but she felt responsible for his safety now to. So most of the night was spent too King out over the river and towards his resting place to make sure he was safe.

Come morning she was relieved they'd not been attacked again and was glad to rejoin the other.....she'd been responsible once before for a group like this, family really and that ended in death and destruction. She was happy to follow instructions but she didn't ever want to have to make decisions ever again that could lead to her friend dying

In reply to The Shadow (msg # 156):

Arcus scowled at the dark river waters for about 5 minutes... when it became clear their quarry was not going to show again.. he stalked to the edge of the river and called out~ his tone full of scorn and challenge, his voice full of thunder and indignation...!

"I knows yur out there watching an listenin' 'Ripper' you murderous, craven-cowardly CUR! So YOU LISTEN GOOD~ You'd BETAH stay in tha' rivah cause if'n you come out again tonight~ we are gonna give you a REKKONING with a PERMANENT DIRT-NAP.. you gutless Bastard!!  You may escape tonight, yah rabid dog.. but mark mah words.. one o' these days you gonna spring outah tha' river on the wrong traveler.. and you will NOT live ta' regret it!  As the Radiahactive Holy Glow is mah witness YOU will face JUSTICE for your bloody deeds YOU HEAH ME, yah Yellah coward!  Someday.. you'll Git YURS~ JUSTICE WILL FIND YOU!!!"

His gaze is full of fire and determination... but he seems satisfied with simply declaring doom and laying a personal curse upon the 'Ripper'.

Quieting down, Arcus returns to his position further up from the shore watching Ophelia's position and the river~ guarding all night if need be.

Come morning he makes his way back to camp with Ophelia.. in silence, occasionally casting a stern glare at the river's edge...
This message was last edited by the player at 06:57, Sun 05 June 2016.

Morning arrives and Bedlam rises, not especially well rested. Counting heads, he sees Arcus and Ophelia are absent.

"Did they spend the whole night watching the river?!?" he wonders aloud. "Kinda defeats the purpose of rotating watches."

"T-bird, could you get those two back to camp? I'll get some food ready."

When the crew is reassembled, the giant takes a quick poll.

"Now that we have more light, shall we go fishing for the Ripper, or press on to the Sleeth bridge?"

Ophelia stretched as she eat what Bedlam had cooked..." No we took it in shifts, I watched for the first part of the night Arcus took the last part. so we are rested"

Thunderbird headed out to bring Arcus back to camp.

"Breakfast is ready." he said as he flew over the area

Arcus is not far behind Ophelia looking a little bedraggled from the night's watch but there is a fire in his gaze that says he eager to get the day's tasks in motion.

Listening to Bedlam's question... he ponders for a few moments in silence and finally sighs, "..don' get meh wrong mistah Bedlam Sah... there's nothing Ah'd rather be doin' than putting tha' long-ovah-due cumuppins to tha' murderous cur tha' 'Ripper'!  But it knows this hear river better than any o' us. Ah'm sure he's had people long search for him many-a-times... like as not he may not even be in tha' river ..just using it as a way ta' approach ta hide his tracks an such.. or he may even live under tha' river.. an none o' us can breathe water!"

"Much as Ah'd like ta.. we'd probably jus' waste time. An even if we did find him... it would be in his lair his advantage... not always is tha' best way ta hunt for tha' wicked~ done with direct conflict.. we may learn something about tha' history o' this river from tha' Sleeth bridge folks.. tha' may indeed help us make a more focused search for this killah!  Not all tha' world's ills can be solved in a day.. so distasteful as it is.. it might be best for us ta' move on and come back when got betah intel on this ..fiend?"

"We survived tha' night ... an that's a sight more than many others!"

He shrugs, "We~ Ah'm sure, we ain't seen tha' last o' tha' Ripper...but then again.. he ain't seen tha' last o' US neither!"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:09, Mon 20 June 2016.

Bedlam nods in agreement with the young man's analysis. "If I had those flipper feet from my last flux, it might be different. But probably best I don't torment the rest of you with the smell of this shaggy pelt when it gets wet, right, Crinkles?"

"Ok, then, we head for the bridge," the giant ponders the map while finishing his breakfast. "Everyone still have your free ticket from the Red Guard? I think I'd like to interface with the sleeths before the sun reaches its zenith."

"To the bridge. Got it." Thunderbird said, collecting his gear, scarfing down breakfast and then taking off to patrol the sky.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
10:51, Today: Thunderbird rolled 27 using 1d20+12.  perception.

---

You traverse the last few blocks until the South River Bridge. All of the intact structures on your route have been sealed shut in the same manner as you have seen, and the streets are deserted. The bridge has been heavily fortified on both sides by huge, steel gatehouses, bristling with firing slits, spikes and barbed wire. The square in front of the bridge has been cleared of rubble and painted in yellow stripes.

There is no sign of anyone, but you feel a lot of eyes are watching. An amplified voice makes you all jump. The ticket office is on the right.

You can see it now, a sturdy bunker on your side of the square with a small vestibule facing the bridge.

Bedlam pulls the handcart up to where Thunderbird is waiting several paces from the cleared square and sets down the handles.
~Well,~ his thoughts come into the minds of the crew. ~Here we...~

After his initial surprise, Bedlam grins and waves to the gatehouse.

With a nod to the crew... ~Keep sharp. They should be friendly. Or at least businesslike. I will check on the 'tickets'.~ ... the giant steps slowly out into the square toward the bunker which appears to be the ticket office. Though it is only a few paces, he takes his time, surveying the square. ~They have tech for speakers. Where are those located? Do they have cameras? What about high tech weapons? No, stay where you are. Just see what you can.~

Thunderbird did a scan of the area to get an idea of the technology, having to remember what he was use to dealing with from working in a lab, the others had not.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
13:44, Today: Thunderbird rolled 16 using 1d20+12.  perception technology.

---

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 166):

Arcus had been dozing, a 'cat-nap' on the short trip to the fortified Bridge but at Bedlam's mental call he sits up to attention. Resting his Mega-Shotgun across his knees from his perch on the wagon bench.

He draws his binoculars and scans the Heavily Fortified Bridge for defenders...

10:18, Today: Arcus rolled 24 using 1d20+12.  Observe the Fortified Bridge battlements - watching for threats.

"Ah'll bet all them fortifications..ain't fur merchants or travelers.. but Ah'd bet.. it keeps tha' Ripper out!  They may know somethin' about it, might do us some good to question them... if'n their neighborly-like an all..."

 The idea of having a safe place was nice thinking about but in these times and places it was dangerous to fall into such a trap of dropping her guard with these people. Still the idea of getting her hands on more technology for her engines would be nice...motorcycles with machine weapons mounted on them could do alot to discourage their enemies from messing with them the next time the ran across each other.

 She turned and looked over the barricade ahead of them and watched quietly as she waited for the doors to open.

Ophelia moved over towards the group but still kept a little distance from them, no need to make us all one big target, she thought to herself.

She kept an eye on Bedlam and one on the barricade, if the big guy needed backup quickly she had the fire power within her sight to take out the whole of the barricade if needed.

Bedlam saunters towards the vestibule, while the others watch his back and scan the surroundings. You notice half a dozen unobtrusive cameras mounted on various high points, but no sign of obvious threats. On the rear wall of the vestibule is a small circular speaker grill with a button below. Under the button is painted an arrow with writing underneath; despite his recent studies Bedlam can't yet read it, although the intent seems obvious. A single camera is mounted in one corner, a red LED blinking slowly.

Bedlam smiles broadly at the slowly blinking red light. Then, leaning in to peer at the small circular grill, he briefly pushes the button. He straightens up and waits for something to happen.

After a while the speaker crackles to life.

You're ssssuposed to hold down the button and ssssspeak.

Arcus smiles at the response from the speaker.. he lowers his Binoculars and stows them away in their belt pouch and slings his MEGA-Shotgun to his shoulder resting it at ease.  Clearly he seems to think, now, this is a more benign situation that guns are not needed for.

"Oh."

Bedlam leans in and presses the button. "Hello? I'm Bedlam. The crew and I would like to cross your bridge."

Releasing the button he takes out the brochure from the Red Guard and holds it up to the small circular grill.

"We have..."

He pushes the button with his other hand.

"We have these from the Red Guard."

There is a long pause and then the voice resumes.

You are the onessss who killed the Cook, yessss? Our thanksss to you. You may all crossss and return, once, for free. When the gate openssss walk without sssstopping until the other sssside.

Bedlam carefully tucks away the brochure before pressing the button.

"Yes, that was our crew. Thank you. Would it be possible for me to meet with one of your representatives. Alone, if that would make you more comfortable. I would like to discuss various other developments here in the Sprawl which may have an impact on your community."

He releases the button.

Ssssadly we cannot meet in persssson, human. We find our insssstincts hard to control in the presence of... other racessss. However, if you would like to talk further in ssssafety and comfort, there is a conference room nearby which we can open for you. Ssss.

Arcus is puzzled by the response from the speaker, and leans over to ask Ophelia, "Wha instincts is it talkin' about?  It can't mean they can't resist... er tha urge ta try mating with us can it?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:59, Mon 18 July 2016.

Ophelia gave a little chuckle " no my dear I get the feeling we are more like the little fly in the big hungry spider's web .....rather than the innocent damsel about to have her virtue sullied" she gently touched his arm " but if you are correct honey I won't let them take your innocence " and she gave him a wink before moving forward to join the giant

Bedlam nods as he pushes the button. "Yes, we would like that. Please give us directions to the conference room."

"lets hope they do not want us as their main course. I've been roasted once already and it took too way to long to grow my feather back!" Thunderbird said

Arcus' eyes go wide... in embarrassment, having spoken without really thinking about what he was asking and to whom... a young lady~ at that, and turns immediately several shades of fiery blush; having no words to respond with {for once} he focuses on his Mega-Shotgun sights at his feet...
This message was last edited by the player at 05:24, Tue 19 July 2016.

There'ssss a door round back.

At the rear of the building is a steel door, which opens with a click at your approach. Beyond is a spacious bunker outfitted with mismatched chairs and sofas. A small TV screen is mounted high in one corner.

Doesn't look like a trap, but won't move you inside unless you want to.

Bedlam bends to look into the room, then looks back at the crew with a nod.
~Looks like it is on the up and up. I am going in. I would encourage the rest of you to do the same.~
The giant enters the bunker and finds a sturdy chair which he moves to face the small screen.

Thunderbird made a quick check of his gear before folding his wings down in order to enter the doorway as he followed Bedlam.

Arcus, follows into the room... 'safetying' his firearms before taking a seat.

Ophelia glides in and takes a seat

 She steps in but stands by the door, resting the maul head on the floor ready to kick it backwards to block the door from closing on them.

The screen comes to life in a burst of static before showing a hooded and dimly lit but clearly reptilian face. His voice sounds clearly over the speakers.

I am Aldissss. Pleasssse closssse the door and sssstate your bussssinessss.

Bedlam gives Rose a nod. ~Go ahead and close the door, sis. They were favorably disposed to us before we requested this meet.~

Turning back to the screen, the giant addresses the image of the sleeth.

"Greetings, Aldiss. I am Bedlam, and this is the salvage crew I work with. We asked to meet with you because, given the dangerous and hostile qualities of the Sprawl, we believe it is important develop good working relationships whenever possible. We understand that you, as Sleeth, have an innate nature which hinders such relationships with other species. And yet, you have established this crossing. And you maintain this area with warnings to visitors of potential hazards."

"As visitors, we do not wish to inadvertently offend you, our hosts, when we travel through. We are, by trade and nature... curious. Are there buildings in this neighborhood or on the other side of the river we should avoid?"

"Or maybe would like our "assistance" in exploring them?" Thunderbird suggested.

"Though, there are some serious threats ta doing any real exploration an recovery... take fur instance this 'Ripper'.  Would yaw be knowin' anything helpful about who.. or what this fiend is an how to deal wit him?  We kinda had a run-in with~ it... before we come here.. real nasty varmint if ya' ask meh!"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:24, Tue 09 Aug 2016.

It seemssss you have been very fortunate! Very few have encountered the Ripper and lived to tell the tale. We advise you not to camp anywhere within ssssix blocks of the river in future. As for the other sssside of the bridge... there are several well-armed factions who value their privacy. And of coursssse the Red Guard have welcomed many into their compound. It musssst be as good as they claim, for not one convert has ever returned.

As to our reasonssss for running the bridge... our motivation is ssssimple. We usually collect a toll of ancient technology, which is our passsssion. Your free passsssage today is purely an expression of gratitude for taking care of that pesssstilent cannibal known as the Cook.

Ophelia sat quietly but her senses were on edge. She mentally judged if her eye blasts could take the door out if they needed to escape quickly.

Arcus can't help asking, "Do yaw know what tha' 'Ripper' is and have you tried ta' destroy it?  Is it jus' one or are their more of em an has it evah attacked yur bridge?"

Ophelia leaned forward and put a hand on Arus leg " shhh my friend think what reason would they have in destroying something that stops people just crossing the river by boat.... while it lives people have to use the bridge" she said in a whisper before straightening up again

Arcus grimaces slightly, seeing the truth in his feminine feline friend's words... realizing his kind of innocent public altruism is almost a foreign concept in the world and it visibly saddens him a great deal.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Wed 10 Aug 2016.

Our microphones are very sensitive. And you are wrong about the Ripper. We paid the Dabbers handsomely to secure the entire neighborhood to deny it more victims! Our kind are among the many dead! As to what it is... we are not entirely sure. Some sort of hybrid of robot and necrotic flesh. It has considerable mental powers and is fast and deadly. However, the Ripper is pathologically shy. When faced with more than one opponent, it invariably retreats. Incidentally, it has hunted down and butchered anyone who has ever survived an encounter, within days, at most weeks. Be on your guard.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:22, Wed 10 Aug 2016.

At the mention of this, Thunderbird hung his head down. "Greeeeat..." he muttered under his breath. "By any chance, do you have any N-cells that need recharging?" he asked. "If they can still hold a charge, I can recharge them for you. Out of every ten filled up, cost you two of them?" he offered.

Arcus gets a grim determination in his eyes, "Good! Tha' jus' means we don' have ta' hunt tha' varmint down.. he'll come to us! Thanks fur tha' neighborly warnin'!"

Then Arcus has another question, "...so... you ask a toll of old world tech ta' cross yur bridge... do you evah trade tech or sell things you've found or been paid for the toll?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:56, Thu 11 Aug 2016.

Bedlam's thoughts reach the crew with the usual hint of amusement. ~You don't have to speak out loud, Ophelia.~

But the giant's usual enthusiasm for barter and information turns noticeably introspective when the Ripper's hunting patterns are revealed. Soon, however, he seems to shake off his reverie. When there is a break in the exchange he asks a question.

"Do the Red Guard reimburse you for travelers crossing your bridge with their paper?"

To Thunderbirds charging proposal:

Posssssibly we can come to an arrangement. You will be contacted on the bridge.

To Arcus' innocent question on resale:

<Outraged silence> No. We do not.

To Bedlam's deft question, after a long pause:

They promisssse to. Meanwhile, we are offered their "protection". Sssso we collect the chitssss and pretend that one day we will redeem them and this ssssomething more than pure extortion...

Arcus ponders their reply's and strangely offended silence...

The young mutant addresses his friends, "Seems ta meh, if none o' them Red Guard 'invitees' tha' went ta see their compound  has evah come back... tha's some BS if'n I evah heard anything! Thas' TOO good ta be true~ which usually means it ain't nothin' o' tha' sort!!!  My Ma always said ta meh, 'People comes in three types son... those ya can please all tha time, those ya can please some o' the time and those Ya can nevah please EVAH!'  Even if those Red Guard could promise tha' Old World restored tha' way is was... someone would not like their version o' it regardless... So Ah'm betten' there is somethin' sinister up with them already! We'd best not approach from tha' front door until we figure out what their scheme is!"

Then Arcus looks back at the monitor, "Er... a beggin' yur pardon Sah, I seems ta have offended you wit' ma' question!  Ah'm, not tha' kind to give offense on purpose soos Ah'm apologizing!  But ...and Ah hate ta' be persistent wit' this but .. Why don't you trade some of the tech you recover?  Ah figure ya must have a good reason, at least to yur own way o' seeing it?  But Ah'm sure not all the tech folks want ta trade can be useful.. ah'm mean how many Old World Tech hair-dryers do ya need...? 'An I do know what tha' is cause I seen a working one once!'  Is it a cultural thing.. like ya don't look kindly on merchants or somesuch?  Ah'd really like ta' know... Ma pa always said, 'If ya don' know what ya did to give offense.. ya can't likely keep from doin' it again!'..."

Aldis is clearly mollified by Arcus' contrition, but still unwilling to disclose any more.

We prefer not to discusssss... religioussss matterssss. At all.

" honey lets try not to upset the nice gentleman ...especially while we are in an enclosed room" said Ophelia to Arcus in a gentle voice.

Turning to the speaker " Please excuse my young friend he has a tendency to see things in black and white ...which is an admiral quality but give him a few more years in the zone and he will come to realise that there are many shades of grey out there as well"

In reply to The Shadow (msg # 205):

Arcus, is clearly curious, but says, "..er Well, Ok then!  Ah' can't fault a person fur their faith and Religion. Ah' got nothing but respect fur a body's religious devotion... Mah being a man o' Faith as well! 'May the Holy Glow o' the Atom guide you too its light an salvation!' Ah'll drop it!"

Arcus gets a silly grin at Ophelia's words, "Awe shucks Miss Ophelia.. Ah' jus' calls 'em as Ah' sees em is all.. Ah' got no special wisdom on tha' mattah! Ah' jus' believe in this... what were doing right here.. right now!  Intelligent, sentient beings.. peacefully, sanely, resolving their differences with dialogue.. preserving tha' peace and living in peace and tolerance with each other! CIVILIZATION ..is what Ah' believe in.. the preservation o' life for the good o' everyone. Than't nothing special about that... an Ah' hope Ah' nevah STOP believein' in it neither!"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:51, Fri 19 Aug 2016.

~They sound like Archivists to me. Folks who collect and worship technological items, but do not use them. Probably better not to mention specifics of what we are packing. Remember how crazy Wilbur got about ZE-5. Let's limit trade talk to information, favors, food and water.~


The giant considers this...
~So the Red Guard papers are worthless once we cross the bridge. We should be sure we can afford the return passage before we get stranded on the other side.~
...but switches back to an earlier topic. "It would seem the Ripper is at least as much of a pestilence as the Cook. And, if it holds to its previous behavior, we will be meeting it again, soon. Have you any additional advice or assistance you would offer for that meeting? After all, you stand to benefit significantly if we manage to end its existence."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Mon 22 Aug 2016.

All our attemptssss to capture or kill the Ripper ended in failure. Ssssome ssssort of mental sssshielding might work. But that is not something we possessss. However, if you do manage to kill it I am ssssure you will all be granted a lifetimessss' free passsssage over our bridge.

"I guess we are finished here." Thunderbird said. "If we are able to deal with the Ripper, we will be sure to let you know. I will help take care of the n-cells when we get back on the bridge. Depending on how many you have that can be recharged, it might take a while."

Crinkles sidles up to Arcus and pokes him. "You color blind? Crinkles not know you couldn't see color." He looks concerned for Arcus while picking a bug off of his shirt and eating it.

Bedlam nods. "That would be a very generous reward."

"As you noted, it fled when we all became aware of its presence. Since we are to face it again, I would like to prevent its retreat. Do you have nets for fishing in the river? Or perhaps some strong ropes or cables we could use to confound its movement?"

The mike goes silent for a few moments, and you sense Aldis is having a conversation offstage.

We do have ssssome materialssss that might help. We will provide you with them on the bridge along with the cells. Now, is there anything elsssse.

Ophelia kept quiet she didn't like being in the room and she'd be happy once they were out on the bridge

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 214):

Ophelia catches Arcus gazing at her with an expression like adoration, smiling...  he probably doesn't even realize he's doing so.

Crinkles looks at Arcus looking at Ophelia. He then looks at Opelia. He looks back at Arcus, then back and forth a couple more times. He then wanders over to Ophelia and looks at her carefully, then goes to Arcus.

"Ophelia got something on her fur? You staring at her," Crinkles offers, clearly concerned. "I get water for her if she needs wash, though Crinkles doesn't think Ophelia washes."

Arcus, hotly blushes... "Erm.. ah its nothing she's fine.. jus' fine.. {ahem}...", and he begins examining his shotgun instead...

Thunderbird looked over to Bedlam. "I have nothing further and thank you for your time." he said to the speaker.

 Standing tall, she watches the speaker and is not so sure if this was a safe way for the group to do business.

 "Are we done here?. I have the nasty feeling that we are going to do something we wont like....Ummm...unless you happen to have a Harley Davidson motorcycle in their pile of goodies?. That is something i would not mind dealing for."

Ophelia's stern demure relaxes a little a Crinkles comments and laughs lightly " Crinkles my dear I think its more that my young friend here has something in his eye rather than something on my fur"

She moves over to Arcus as she made her way towards the door " Arcus my dear .....I am flattered" she said resting a gentle hand on his arm " Maybe in a world you wish to create it would be different but here our lives hang in the balance each day..... you are a dear friend and I will do all I can to make sure you see each sun rise and sun set but friends we can only be for now......" she gave him a sad smile and walked passed then turned, grinned " oh and as eye candy you are the best of this sorry bunch and look good in black leather .. and one last thing....never change...and never stop trying"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:44, Tue 06 Sept 2016.

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 220):

Arcus blushes even brighter, and runs his fingers through his hair his gaze falling in embarrassment at her gentle touch of his arm, "Golly, Miss Ophelia... I-Ah.. meant no disrespect an all.. it's Jus... been a long time since Ah seen beauty like yurs... an.. its been a long empty road... mah life thus far.  An, sometimes ta make it seem less ...'empty' I focus on tha' things tha' make it seem a bit nicer.  Watchin' kids runnin' and playing, hearing folks laughin', and walking down clean streets with neighborly folks... an.. yeah.. seein' yur pretty face... makes it all seem worth it... mah reward~.. so ta speak..."

His voice chokes a little at the end.. he pauses and his eyes turn sad...

"Ah..A-ah've seen a lot o' pain, an violence.. an death, been a part o' it too.  Buried ..a lot o'.. innocent folks... with Mah own bloody hands~ Tha'... changes a man... eventually.  Ah.. don' mean ta' leer... impolitely, Ah'm sorry. Ah.. nevah was what anyone would call a 'ladies man'... but there was one gal from mah home i-in Stone Pillar.. she was, she was~ ... real nic~..."

An unbidden tears smolder in his eyes...

He stops... closes his eyes hand going to his Children of the Atom - Icon of Faith at his neck... clutching it painfully hard. Angrily he wipes the tears away...

"Sorry. Tha's in tha past now... but I ..can still see her pretty...blood-spattered face... when I buried her next to ...mom's headless body... in mah nightmares."

"If'n ...ah do live ta...someday grow old... an have a life o' some small measure o' peace....time ta' remember tha' good things in life... I hope.. Ah remember yur pretty face too.."

He looks away... an some small portion of that hopeful light in his young eyes.. has died...

Ophelia saw that her gentle words had hurt the young man "dear you are a good man with a good soul.... you say you are not a ladies man but the ladies like the quiet shy type...me included" she gave him a smile " I did not mean to cause you hurt with my words just to point out that we live in a dangerous time... perhaps people would say that is all the more reason to grab life by the hands and enjoy it while you can..."

"I, like you, have seen too many loved ones die, I have spent the time since trying to make a difference perhaps with my sacrifice I can give someone the chance to have a better life." she then laughed lightly " and to be honest I am far too old to fall in love ...and you have never shown me any disrespect so please push that from your mind..... you have been a perfect gentleman and I'm sure your mother would be proud of how you have turned out."

"Now come we, you and I, have a job to do, this lot of ragamuffins.." she said waving at the others " wouldn't be able to find the other side of the door without our help and we have a responsibility to keep them alive for one more day"

Arcus looks at Ophelia.. his gaze turning solemn... and he reaches into his belt pouch and pulls out.. another heat crafted five-pointed bronze-colored metal Star.

"Miss Ophelia... I too know yur a fine woman.. you could have decided to go back ta trying ta live a simple life, let the world go on as it wills.. but you've made a stand ta try ta help others.. for the same reasons Ah do.  Ta' oppose those who would spread fear, pain an sufferin' ta those who can't protect themselves... not askin' fur payment or doin' it fur selfish reasons... nothin' could be more noble or HEROIC than ta' help those in need..simply cause ya can... and yur heart motivates ya too."

"Miss Ophelia.. I'd be Very Honored ...if you'd bear this badge... this Star of Hope.. and spread tha' word tha' the innocent have a champion.. tha' Heroes once again walk the Sprawl.  You don' need no oaths.. you don' need anything I can tell ya or teach ya about wha it means ta be a RANGER... you already got it in yur heroic heart.. its as plain as yur beauty.. moreso cause its all comes from tha' golden heart you bear within you!  I'm certain whatever you do.. where ever you go.. yur deeds will bring honor and respect to tha' Rangers! Please Accept this Ranger Ophelia!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:35, Tue 06 Sept 2016.

Ophelia smiled openly at the young ranger" it is honour enough to be at your side in this chaotic world... but I will take this badge as a token of our friendship so that I will always remember that I am no longer totally alone in this world" she said as she took the badge

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 224):

Arcus beams smiling broadly, "Yur Right, Ranger Ophelia.. yur nevah going ta be alone! Ta ANY Ranger~ bearing tha' badge means yur as good as a family member! We Protect and Assist Our Own!"

Then turning to the group, "Right then.. Mistah Bedlam Sah, Let's set up our ambush fur this varmint Ripper cuss!"

Crinkles nods his agreement to everything being said. As Arcus finishes, Crinkles can be seen curiously examining Arcus' eyes from a distance, but keeps his thoughts to himself.

Bedlam raises an eyebrow at the discussion in the back of the room.
~Really?!? If you are not going to use the telepathy could you at least save the 'team building' exercises for when we are not negotiating with others?~

With a sigh, the giant addresses Aldiss. "Thank you. I hope these discussions have been as productive for you as they have been for us. We will proceed to the bridge."

Standing and turning he spreads his arms (which encompass a fairly substantial part of the room) in an effort to herd the crew out of the chamber before the conversation grows any more maudlin.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:43, Sun 11 Sept 2016.

"Not jealous big guy?" Ophelia thought to Bedlam and gave him a wicked smile

Bedlam grins broadly at the felinoid. ~I'm sure you add more to that badge's sparkle than it could ever add to your charms.~

"Alright. Let's get cross the bridge and see what's on the other side."

You file out of the conference room, the door closing behind you, and head towards the bridge gates, which swing silently open as you approach. Beyond, the roadway is packed with rusting old vehicles, leaving a narrow, winding pass across. Just inside the gates, you see a wooden pallet holding a box of twenty drained energy cells, and 3 bales of razor wire, with a pair of reinforced gloves to allow safe handling. There is still no sign of anyone, Sleeth or otherwise...

Arcus replies mentally, ~ "Ah, don' mind tha' Aldiss seeing tha' we are motivated by good intentions or tha' were good people... I want Everyone ta' know what tha' RANGERS stand fur!  It takes remarkable folks ta' be willing ta' help others without any promise o' reward or even recognition... doin' good deeds jus' cause they 'feel' motivated ta' do so...! It's not somethin' I expect out o' most folks."

He walks out of the Conference room toward the wooden pallet and looks with uncertainty at the item on it.

He comments, "Ah'm not sure how useful tha' metal wire is gonna be against tha' Ripper... You said you clubbed him darn solid like Mistah Bedlam.. and he seemed not ta notice.. or like yur weapon just passed through him.. like he was.. liquid-like."

Then Arcus looks at Thunderbird and ponders for a few moments, "...But.. somethin' does occur ta' me... If'n Ah'm correct metal with conduct your lightning right Thunderbird?  Why don't we set up the area of our defense with over-lapping razor wire strung up so tha' Ripper will have ta pass through them or walk on them ta' get ta' us.. so you can just lightning tha' wires and fry 'em when he has ta touch it.. while tha' rest o' us snipe at him with energy attacks?"

Crinkles looks at the wire doubtfully, then turns to Bedlam. Out loud, he says, "Hey, Bed--" He then stops himself and pinches his mouth shut for show. He then THINKS: ~"Sorry, Bedlam. Crinkles try to remember to brain-talk. What's the plan?"~

"Oh, I connected. And it ran, even though it didn't seem badly injured. So we use the wire to keep it from running."

Bedlam passes the box of energy cells to Thunderbird. "How long does it take you to charge one of these?"

~Plan? Still working on it...~

The giant takes a few moments to shift some of the gear around in his handcart then turns his attention to the bales of wire. He picks up the gloves, squinting dubiously. They are obviously intended for hands of smaller breadth. Nevertheless, he carefully places them on either side of a bale and loads it into his handcart. After repeating the process with the other two bales he tosses in the gloves and turns to see how Thunderbird is doing with the energy cells.

Thunderbird looked over the cells. "Visually they look to be fine but I will find out when I start charging. Since I have not handled these particular ones, it will take me a few minutes apiece depending on how old they are to charge so I will not burn them out in the process." he said starting to sort them out by manufacturer and then by date.

"As for giving him a charge using the razor wire, it will work but might work even better if some of the wire lead into the water since it is a better conductor. If I remember correctly about the use of it in wars, the wire was used to slow down foes and channel them into the areas covered by machine guns. Let us find a place that he will more likely check out but not think it is a threat to its safety."

Arcus suggests, "Perhaps some sort o' spring up barriers, braced around tha' abandoned buildings here'abouts ta' surround tha' battle-zone once he's in it ta' hinder movement and prevent any Easy rapid escape?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:34, Thu 15 Sept 2016.

Crinkles considers all this and then thinks to the others, "~~Or maybe Crinkles stand on other side and dance around, like bait in trap? Maybe it just hungry and want to eat a big Crinkles and try to go through razor wire to get Crinkles?~~" He bobs up and down happily, clearly thinking this was brilliant.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 20:48, Mon 19 Sept 2016.

While discussing your plans for an ambush the meander through the maze of rusting cars to the other end of the bridge. The fortifications are similar to the other bank, and once again the door stands open, closing after you have passed through.

You find yourselves in a large plaza with several roads leading further into the Sprawl. As with the other bank, the building all appear to be sealed up tight, except one - clearly the embassy of the Red Guard, as several well-armed hoops are standing outside.

The old sign above the entrance is just about visible, but the Red Guard have painted their own legend over it.  The building itself seems to be a station for a mass transit station. Elevated rails lead away from the station in both directions, but the track leading to the river has collapsed in a pile of reinforced concrete and rusting steel. However, the line in the other direction stretches on as far as you can see in the hazy late morning air...

"Bedlam I've been thinking....this ripper thing comes from the river and we were close to the river when it last attacked. A fog came before it attacked so it must be part of its attack process....blind and disorientate its prey before attacking....that reduces the use of range weapons  which leads me to think its primary attack is hand to hand....its mind power helps stun its prey...similar to some spiders use poison in their attack."

She thought for a moment " all indication is that it is mechanical in nature so we could possible assume the fog is produced by some mechanical / chemical nature and might need the river to supply the moisture for the fog.... if this is true, and it has decided we are its next prey then if we pull it away from its usual hunting ground perhaps we can remove its ability to create the fog."

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 238):

Arcus steps in pace at their side and comments,"Ah'm not wanting ta' contradict Miss Ophelia.. but if'n this 'thing' were just a function of a natural-hunter ability that uses tha' river to stalk it's prey... don't you think the Aldiss with all their technical know-how would have taken it down by now?  Remember, Aldiss said the Ripper had killed MANY of their kind!"

"Ah'm thinking it may be of a supernatural threat... which is why its still around all this time!  It was a creature that was originally of technology... and powerfully of the blackest evil~ even when it jus' a mundane critter!  But somethin' happened... somethin' even WORSE before it died or even after! And its become some kinda o' spectre... dimensional wraith, demon, unholy Revenant~ howeverah ya' want ta' define it! In this world of dimensional visitors, magic and mutants.. can ya really honestly discount anything?"

"The ability it has ta' paralyze its victims with fright... tha' is not natural.. your psionic Bedlam and that offered only a minor added protection.. I'm thinkin' tha's why this thing has been so successful... everyone keeps thinkin'~ {Its gotta be some kinda technological horror...!} when tha' is not tha' case!  Its EVIL, evil as in the kind tha' only exists in the purest sense of evil... UNHOLY from the pit o' HELL!  The laws o' reality don' always apply to such a threat! We need to keep a flexible plan in mind.. don' count on it's fog not being available.. is all I'm jus' sayin'! Shoot it, Hit it harder.. might not be tha' Answer!"

"Don' take any o' its abilities we've seen fur' granted thinkin' we understand it!  It could jus' as well be a kinda supernatural revenant o' some sort."

"Mah advice is try everything.. but don' depend on any particular strategy to be the answer... we don't actually have someone empowered by divine powers ta' help us. As I would suggest employing tha' kinda power first!"

"Jus' sayin' this here Ripper is a salty-dog, stone-cold-killah.. E-VILE! An he's been doing' it a long time... don' underestimate wha' it could do!"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:55, Mon 26 Sept 2016.

 She looked across the bridge for several seconds before offering her view. "We wanted to see other sectors of the ruins, lets just go and have a look around, maybe do what we first started to do?, if the monster wants to have another go at us then we shall be ready for it if it does so."

"And then there is the Red Guard..." Bedlam rouses from his thoughts about the Ripper. "Don't suppose they'll let us just ignore them for now, do you?"

"I wonder if they would be interested in joining us in hunting the Ripper..." Bedlam pulls out the map and begins making notations.

As long as the Red Guard keep out of earshot the giant continues the discussion with the crew.

"I agree with Ophelia in thinking the Ripper creates the fog to cover its movements. And, since we have no divinely bestowed powers to counter its evil, we probably have to base our actions on the 'hit it harder' methodology. However, given its obvious longevity against significant resources, I suggest we also add some 'hit it smarter' twists. Hence the razor wire."

"I must also tell you that I believe it has another tool in its arsenal which we... I... have not yet fully confronted. Remember when some of us were under the Cook's influence? He used some sort of long-lasting mind control on the folks who ate his food? Well, I'm feeling those same effects now, except they are coming from the Ripper."

The giant shrugs. "It might not have to come looking for us... it might just draw me to it. So our plans will need to include the likelihood that I will be unable to function and may even act in opposition to the rest of you."

"And, no, I'm not so sure I like the idea of being tied up as bait. Though that may be our best option."

The hoops perk up as you approach, holding their serious-looking weapons ready but pointed downwards. The leader, a scarred oldfur with an eye patch, steps forward.

"Welcome comrades! I see you have decided to take up our offer of a new life in the Red Guard"

In reply to Bedlam Jones (msg # 241):

Arcus speaks up, "Well 'hit-it-harder... and with variety'... try everything see what works best then focus on wha' seems ta' do tha' most harm to tha' nasty Varmint!  And Absolutely NOT.. we're not using you as Bait Mistah Bedlam Sah.. no-way, no-how!  Ah'd feel right guilty and broken-up if the Ripper harmed or Kilt' you cause were we too cowardly to stand with ya!"

Arcus looks over at the Red Guard Hoop with the sour expression of finding a mutant skunk in his bedroll, "We're focusing on something else right now.. tha' Ripper is coming fur us.. and we aims to make it sorry fur it... permanent-like! So you jus' hold on there hippity-hop an we'll get back to you ...soon enough!"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:44, Sun 02 Oct 2016.

Crinkles cackles at this as if Arcus' statement was the funniest he'd heard in a while. He then stops and scratches his nose.

 She stopped when they spotted the red guard patrol ahead and frowned at the interruption, she was beginning to get upset at the others who kept getting in their way and assuming what they were going to do.

 Muttering softly to those around her, "How big of place do this hoppers seek to hold?, though that rifle it carries looks nice..and any info on them might help use to avoid the bigger camps."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:12, Sun 02 Oct 2016.

The hoops' weapons swing up as their watchful expressions turn furious.

"What did you say?" says the oldfur to Arcus menacingly.

In reply to The Shadow (msg # 246):

Arcus activates his Shimmershield with a silent act of will but his temper does get the better of him at last and his hair bursts into a mane of stellar flames... his voice crackling with psychic power...

As he turns to the Hoop, no longer being cordial, "I Said, ..We will get back to you, Soon Enough! Put those weapons back down unless you mean to use them... or you will not live to regret it... we are not intimidated by your supposed 'friendly' Red Guard!"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:37, Mon 03 Oct 2016.

Ophelia glades gracefully between the young man and the Red Guard " now come on boys theres no need to have a willy waving competition with us ladies present."she indicated Rose and herself

she turns to Arcus " Hold your tongue my friend" she said in a low growl that left little to the imagination. She knew the boy meant well but the last thing they needed was to be hunted by the red guard while they were hunting the ripper.

Turning bucket the red guard " please excuse my friend, he gets a bit hot under the collar but meant no harm. He is new to the area and there is a innocent naivety to him.....please lower your weapons...allow us a few moment s to orientate ourselves to this side of the bridge and we will happily common with you." she finished with her arms wide and her hands palm up going them a little bow.

Then she swivelled and moved passed Arcus as she did she whispered " Calm yourself....choose your battles ...choose only the ones you know you will win....if we can work this right then the bait we need might just be standing over there with their guns pointed at us saving Bedlam the need to be trust up like a christmas turkey..." with that she spoke a little louder

"well boss man whats the plan" she directed at Bedlham

Crinkles' expression drops when things seemed to go bad, but he kept his hand clear of his weapon--for now. He looked and beamed at Bedlam when Ophelia asked the question of their leader.

In reply to Ophelia (msg # 248):

Arcus does not falter in his deadly gaze at the threatening Hoops... but his hair does settle to its usual mop of impossibly crimson tresses'...  and he folds his arms at his chest.

He mutters somewhat sullenly~ but his voice no longer filled with psychic power, "...they started it!"

But his shimmershield remains in place...
This message was last edited by the player at 11:18, Thu 06 Oct 2016.

As long as safe distances are maintained Bedlam gives the hoops a friendly wave and a grin before hunching down to confer with the crew.

"Like I said, the decision regarding my status with the Ripper may not be ours to make. Psychic compunctions can be very powerful - I should know."

"Ophelia, do you think there is some way to incorporate the Red Guard, knowingly or not, in our conflict with the Ripper? If not, I will attempt to delay our new life of fulfillment by placing our entire crew in quarantine."

"Why not ask them if they have had any problem with the Ripper. Maybe we can offer to help the Red Guard at the same time. The more friends we can help when we deal with it, the better our status will be in the area." Thunderbird suggested. "However for the time being, I would suggest that Arcus stand in the back just to be on the safe side when you broach the subject."

In reply to Thunderbird (msg # 252):

Arcus shrugs, "..fine with meh. Ah hates bullies..."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:48, Sun 09 Oct 2016.

Crinkles pokes Arcus in the arm. "Arcus, you stand back here with Crinkles. We be nice and quiet and get ready to shoot anyone who shoots at Bedlam."

 She glared up towards the hoppers and snorted when they began to swing their weapons around. She readied herself for another fight but held the cross bow strung but pointed downward.

Bedlam glances between Thunderbird and Ophelia then gives a shrug.

"OK, sounds like negotiations start with an open invitation."

Giving Arcus and Crinkles a quick wink and a grin, the giant tucks the map under his VW breastplate and extracts a somewhat rumpled Red Guard pamphlet.

Holding up the pamphlet he turns back to the hoops and takes a few steps closer to their embassy.

"Greetings, Red Guard," he beams before assuming a more serious demeanor. "I apologize for our delay in addressing you, but we find ourselves preoccupied by what the sleeths told us about this Ripper. Is it true what they say? Does it prowl the night, snatching even the strongest beings with impunity? I see the buildings on this side of the river appear to be carefully secured."

Ophelia glides gracefully to the left of Bedlam keeping an eye on the Hoppers... a very powerful energy enriched eye on them. If one so much as raises a gun from their position she will let the power out

The lead hoop gives Bedlam a level stare. "As the True Father teaches, only the strong will prosper. This being you call the Ripper performs a necessary function, thinning the weak from the herd. The Red Guard have nothing to fear! But if the Ripper is indeed stalking you perhaps your initiation into the Guard can be put on hold until matters are resolved. One way or another..."

Crinkles' brow furrows, and then he beams as he hops over to Bedlam. Quietly (for him) he says to Bedlam, "Hey, Bedlam! Aren't we the ones hunting the Ripper?"

~Indeed!~ Bedlam's thought answers the yeti's inquiry.

"The True Father is indeed wise," Bedlam nods, impressed. "Though, is it not also true that we all are weak in the beginning, and it is the protection of the herd which allows us to grow strong? But verily the strength of the Red Guard has nothing to fear from a creature which skulks about in the shadows. At least, not as long as the herd protects them."

Bedlam pauses, a confused look on his face.

"I'm sorry, did I get that mixed up? Does the herd protect the Red Guard, or does the Red Guard protect the herd?"

"It matters not," he waves dismissively, quickly changing subjects. "I did not say the Ripper was stalking us. Rather, we were considering whether or not it would prove worthy sport. It is so much more interesting to hunt a hunter than a common herd animal."

Bedlam grins significantly at the hoops. "Wouldn't you agree?"

The hoop seems to take Bedlams words as face value. "It seems you share our ethos, human. Let me extend our invitation to you once again - come with us now and we will bring you all to your spiritual home!"

Crinkles' face crumples into one big wrinkle. ~Bedlam, I don't get it. What home?~ he asks the giant, remembering to talk in his brain and not his mouth this time.

~No imagination!~ Bedlam's frustrated thought reaches the crew. ~Could not recognize an insult if it were grinning in his face.~

"You honor us," Bedlam bows his head. "Unfortunately, despite our great desire, we cannot accept at this time. If we did, some would accuse us of cowardice, or of letting others fight on our behalf. For, indeed, the Ripper visited our camp last night. It fled before we could kill it, and we understand it will return."

"So..." the giant is resigned. "It would be better for us to resolve this matter first... one way or another."

The hoop nods dolefully. "Goodbye" he concludes, then walks back with his guards to their embassy.

Ophelia hangs back just to make sure the hoopers don't follow the group as we move off.

 Watching them walk off she smiles softly in relief, "glad we did not have to hurt them, they seem like over eager little toy soldiers wanting to show how tuff they are.

Well, are we going to cross the bridge and go make some money or stand around all day?."

 She was overly interested in the river monster now that it was behind them but she could see some of the others were still stuck on fighting the creature thing.

Crinkles shrugs. "Okay with Crinkles. Bedlam, what you say we do?" He hops up and down a couple times happily.

Arcus stands ready to help.. though comments, "...ah'm a-thinkin'... those Hops are up ta' no good!  We are gonna come ta' fightin' ...sooner or later.  As Ah said before.. 'Ya can please some people some of the time, Ya can disagree with some people most of the time, but ya can nevah please all folks ALL o' the time...!' Tha' fact that none of the Red Army 'prospective recruits' Nevah tries ta come back across tha' bridge as the Aldis reported.. means ta' meh.. they are LYING about there nevah being those who choose not to join up...!  Either they are killin' them or they are keepin' em as slaves! Either way... We are gonna have ta' deal with them eventually.. Ah'm sure!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:54, Wed 02 Nov 2016.

Crinkles looks at Arcus, taking all this in. He looks completely confused at all the incredible complexity of this situation!
This message was last edited by the player at 15:08, Wed 02 Nov 2016.

"Or they're all too busy drinking the Kool-ade as my mentor would say about creatures that followed others blindly. I never did understand that reference." Thunderbird said

"Alright, let's head that way," Bedlam indicates an exit from the plaza which appears to run parallel to the river.

"I'd like to put a half dozen blocks between us and the bridge, but if the right spot shows up closer, that's where we'll work."

"The basic plan," he continues, pulling the handcart behind him. "Is to use the razor wire to keep the Ripper from escaping. We need to lure it into a blocked alley and then close the exit. We have to assume it is intelligent, or at least very cunning, to have survived this long. So we have to conceal the trap until it is too late for it to escape."

"While I would like to blast it from a distance, I think it creates its own fog. That will make it impossible to see from a safe range. Anyone have ideas on clearing the fog?"

"Anyway, we're looking for an alley with something sturdy to anchor the wire. If it is open an both ends, we'll need to be able to secure the wire at the far end as well."

"Thoughts?"

"Well, we could set up a pit trap and fill it with water. That way we can trap and cook it at the same time by hiding the wire in the water." Thunderbird suggested. "If we had some hand grenades, tossing them in will cause shockwaves that will increase the damage."

In reply to Thunderbird (msg # 272):

Arcus follows pondering the suggestions...

"Well... Ah thinking limiting ourselves to an alley is ... not givin' tha' Ripper credit fur not being stupid!  Ah say we go bigger... a four building street intersection... rigged up with razor wire across all four exits... yeah its big but it also gives us some room ta' maneuver and tag-team tha' varmint.  Not a pit trap .. Ah think he's too wily fur that.. but perhaps a half foot deep pool o' water in the middle o' the intersection concealed with rubble and debris ta' look like a guarded campsite and when the razor wire trap is triggered it sets up a barrier that forces one ta' stand in the pool in the center o' the intersection.  Tha' way.. from the surrounding building tops as needed we can set up sniping positions, retreat points, and fields o' crossfire on him.  But someone will have ta' be the bait in the trap~ looking like a sentry watchin' over everyone else 'supposedly' sleeping ta' draw him into the intersection... preferably someone who can fly or leap out o' tha' "kill-zone" once he's lured there.  While tha' rest o' us are either hidden in the streets leading away from the intersection under rubble concealed or hiding on surrounding roof tops."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:30, Wed 09 Nov 2016.

Bedlam nods as he considers these ideas.

"If we can find a spot with water, then we should try to work that into the trap, but I don't want to be too close to the river. That's the Ripper's sanctuary."

"We've got tools for moving some rubble, but digging a pit... perhaps we can find a weak floor that is ready to collapse... or one of those sewer sink holes."

"The fighting space of an intersection sounds good, but I'm not sure we have enough razor wire for that. Not if we want more than one strand. And getting all four sides to close securely would be ... complicated."

"A fake camp with the sentry for bait is good. But if I am not the sentry, I will still have to be inside the trap," Bedlam frowns. "Because it might be homing in on me."

Bedlam sets the cart down and holds up his lamp post.

"I'm picturing something like this for the moving part, the 'door'," he holds the lamp post horizontally, parallel to the ground.

"We have three or more strands," he indicates lines dropping from the ends and middle of the post. "Attached to a loose lamp post, or a sign post or length of rebar."

"The other ends are secured to car or solid post or even large chunks of concrete."

"When the Ripper is inside the trapdoor, someone gets to close it."

"The opening could be across an alley," Bedlam holds the lamp post vertically at arm length and moves it from right to left across his body. "And we run across or swing it shut."

"The trapdoor could be hidden on the ground," he lays the lamp post down and then raises one end. "And we lift it to close it."

Ophelia came back out of the shadows after monitoring the hoopers for a time " I could possibly blast a hole in the ground with my optical eye blasts if that is of any help" she suggested

Crinkles nods and starts heading the way that Bedlam indicates. He stops for a long second to figure out how many a half-dozen is, shrugs, and resumes heading that way, trusting the others to yell at him if he was going too far.



Crinkles bounces up and down a bit at this and is about to say something when the others speak.



Crinkles bobs his head. "Crinkles likes that! Or Crinkles could go to the edge of the pit and blast it from above."



Crinkles bounds up and down. "Ooh! Ooh! Crinkles can be the bait!"

 Her mind goes to what kind of machine she could build that would be armored, narrow for tight places, have a large weapon mounted in a turret perhaps and machine guns...yes machines..got to have them. With a shrapnel shield to help protect the gunner, that would be nice.

 Her mind went off as she turned to follow the others and she came to the conclusion that she really did not care about the river predator..other then the fact it would probably just follow them if they stayed here.

 "So no looking for loot?." she already knew the answer but had to be the one vote that they did not have to do this.

"Aww, sis, you know we are always looking for loot," Bedlam grins over his shoulder at Rose. "Just right now we're especially looking for loot in places which can be set up for an ambush."

"Let's start with an intersection or clear space to leave the carts," the giant suggests to the crew. "Then we can split up to scout the surrounding area more quickly. Flyers can take an aerial view and the rest of us can check buildings and underground."

"And what do the rest of you think about a trial run? Our information about this Ripper is pretty limited. What if we set the bait somewhere it couldn't reach? We could watch to see how it approaches. Whether or not it shows intelligence. Then we can set a better trap for it tomorrow."

Bedlam continues to ponder this adversary which has entered his mind.
OOC: Would the Ripper be capable of climbing walls?

"Sounds like a plan." Thunderbird said as he started scouting the area for possible locations for an ambush and traces left by the Ripper.

22:04, Today: Thunderbird rolled 29 using 1d20+12.  perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:04, Wed 16 Nov 2016.

Crinkles nods vigorously. "Crinkles loves that plan. Crinkles can still be bait if you need bait."

Not finding her suggestion about using her optical blasts to make a pit had been taken up she turned to the mission at hand " I will go and scout for an intersection that could be of use to us." she said ready to move out

Arcus will follow Ophelia, "We're on it... tha' scouting fur a betah bushwhackin' site!"

Arcus will use his pyrokinetic powers to Rocket himself high into the air on a column of stellar fire as they move through the suburban area... his flights are only long swift streaks through the sky... but his Gravity powers allow him to soar on his momentum but drift lightly to the ground on each Thunderous flight.  As he provides an aerial view of the area for a better tactical view.  He can if Ophelia so desires take her with him on his skyrocketing if needed or requested... and mindfully is careful not to burn her feet on his take offs.

08:04, Today: Arcus rolled 14 using 1d20+12.  Perception Scouting for ambush site.

 She is more curious about what might fit into her mobile chariot or tank then finding a place of entrapment.

 13:19, Today: Rose rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  Perception/visual chk

Once they have found an agreeable spot to leave the carts, Bedlam begins checking nearby alleys and buildings for a potential ambush site.
OOC:
Bedlam Jones rolled 18 using 1d20+6.  Perception - scouting for ambush site.

The giant tries to keep track of the crew. ~Do not wander too far - we are still in unknown territory.~

At one point he hears a thunderous blast. Rushing out to the street he looks up to see Arcus drifting down from the heights, a long plume of smoke arching through the sky behind him.

Bedlam shakes his head, muttering. "Guess I should have included a few more parameters on the search methods. If that doesn't bring every hungry Blaash within a half day's walk..."

The giant hurries off to find Arcus. If he sees any other crew members along the way, he signals them to regroup at the carts. ~We may need to move out quickly.~

Crinkles hefts his weapon and hops. ~Crinkles is ready to move!~ He does a back-flip to illustrate his readiness for movement.

10:58, Today: Crinkles rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Perception, for what it's worth.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Wed 23 Nov 2016.

Ophelia slings gracefully back out of the shadows and rejoins the group " Big guy I'll do a sweep of the area round us just in case our stealthy setting up has attracted unwanted guests"

Once again she drops to all fours and moved off springing from one pile of rubble to another with ease as she disappears back into the surrounding area.


OOC :10:53, Today: Ophelia rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  stealth.
10:53, Today: Ophelia rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:53, Wed 23 Nov 2016.

You find an intersection a few blocks away from the river to stash the carts and then start searching for an ambush site. You are cutting through a dark, cavernous and dank warehouse when you spy something moving in the shadows near the ceiling.

Everyone roll Init! Combat map coming soon, can also double as the ambush site if you so decide. First you have to clear out the flying carnivorous fungi that dwell here...

 Looking over the place she nods that perhaps they could fix this place for a fight.

 03:50, Today: Rose rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  initiative.

Crinkles points and thinks really loudly, ~THERE! UP THERE!~

Slow to react.
20:10, Today: Crinkles rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

Thunderbird noticed the flying creatures as they scouted the area.

10 init

Bedlam tests the balance on his throwing hubcap as he peers up into the shadowed heights of the warehouse.

~Ophelia, we have company back in that warehouse.~

"At least we have some elbow room in this place."

OOC:
Bedlam Jones rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Initiative.