The world exists again.

"Translation completed," the Tallus announces.

All of you... all eight of you, now... are huddled together in a trash-strewn alley that leads back to a metropolitan area teeming with pedestrians. A discarded newspaper gives the date as (approximately) September 18th, 2006. Midnight tonight is the deadline to register under the Superhuman Registration Act; the Daily Bugle predicts an outbreak of violence as Captain America has vowed to resist the SHRA... "... by any means necessary."

The Tallus chirps:




This message was last edited by the GM at 12:22, Sat 30 Jan 2021.

Rocket sniffs and offers a brief face of disgust.

'Oh god, riddles and no references I could ever hope to draw from.  We were doomed from the start!'

When the Tallus speaks up, Rocket's shoulders droop, and he lets out a heavy sigh.  Counter to pre-established expectations, he says nothing.  He shakes his head, lightly slaps his cheeks a couple times, and looks around to see if anyone has any spark of understanding to give him hope... and what the new guy looks like.

Relationships to go the linked thread, I seeeee.  Also, thank you Timekeeper for the quick fix.

Gwen has just enough time for her costume to go back to superhero mode before things go white.
She's seen that shield before, of course.  It's on the poster in her Dad's office.  She's held that shield.  Been hit in the face by that shield (not her finest moment)


But this was definitely not Samantha Wilson.  Captain America is a white dude?  Weird.

As soon things come into focus, she hops on the wall.  Way too crowded on the ground, and that endless expanse of desert was getting to her.

The newspaper headline checked out with the Captain America that Gwen knew.  At Gwen's trial, Cap stepped up and argued that she should be tried with her Secret Identity intact, particularly since she was a minor.  It still sucked that Murdock knew, but he gets disbarred if he talks and at least it's not out to the whole world.

"Hi RoboCap.  Just, quick question.  This place yours, or are you an interdimensional refugee like the rest of us?
AKA do you know what the hell is going on here?"

Don't just throw out a spider theory about the riddle.  Not everything is about spiders.

Gwen is running around on the playground with Pete in 2006 - not much help she can get from her grade-school aged friends.

OOC: If the red/white/blue in one phrase is annoying I will stop it.  Double for that if Cable doesn't like it.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:24, Sat 30 Jan 2021.

Silently appraising the newcomer for a moment, Susan also listened to the Tallus' words.   Contrasted to Rocket, for her, the gist of it dovetailed with her personal philosophies. She looked at the Tallus, adorning one slender, tanned arm, in a somewhat different way than she previously had.

Usual for her, her concerns (and she had plenty) were glossed with flippancy:

"Hey, don't be so bummed out, Twig Daddy. Remember what the dormouse said? Feed your head! We'll get through this, even if we skin the hell out of our knees. Do your people eat brownies?  I'll bake you a whole plate full, if we get time."

Sue's eyes were on the newcomer, awaiting to hear his answer to Gwen's questions. She winced in considering his injuries - like those some guys came home from Nam with - that had necessitated replacing body parts. The only other cyborg she'd met was a real psycho called Deathlok. This one looked more alive than dead, at least.

She wanted to hear his answer first.  And then she'd ask the Tallus for confirmation, so the group could be certain they weren't being shitted...

"If anything sounds fishy, I'll go ask Tallus," she assured the others.  "I think he'll know."

-Credit to the Jefferson Airplane for a few bits.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:17, Sat 30 Jan 2021.

While Sue questioned the old man who’d fallen into their collective lap, Sally picked up the newspaper. The Squares would probably chide her for handling garbage, but the grittier members of The Brotherhood shared their own survival skills, including dumpster diving. Sally chuckled at the Jefferson Airplane allusions. “And if the White Knight is talking backwards...well, you said it, Sister. Right on.”

Sally’s eyebrows rose when she saw what the headline announced in “Second Coming” print. “Whoa. That’s some heavy shit.”  She read on, while asking Sue: “Hey, Sue. You wanna ask the Tallus about this Registration? None of our Future Foundation said anything about America going all fascist...er.”

"Cap?" He says aloud. Looking at the shield first and not the person.

He notes carefully the Tallus riddle. "That sounds like Petra is gone here, but there was a Spider-Man before her though, totally unrelated powers."

He listens carefully and pays attention to the minor details with no movement but his tail as he crouches and sniffs, tuning his senses to this "new" place.

Sue noted Tigro, his behavior, 'yep -- just like a cat -- the nose knows!'

To Sally:  She nodded, gave her mutie-hippie sister a thumbs up, unnerved by what Sally was saying.  'Heavy, alright.  Like hobnailed boots heavy...'

Sue'll wait for Cable to make introductions, any group questions asked, and then ask for full mission parameters from the Tallus, including detail about the Registration act.

So, best case is that we're all illegal persons/animals when the ball ends at midnight if we don't sign whatever that is.  If that news isn't two days old.

We need a couple things.  A safe place.  Info.  Communications.  Supplies.  Sue, the Tallus said it can provide 'materiel' so... get us some cash, food, a couple basics?  Rocket... can you get a communication link?  I may have a lead on home base.  The warehouse my band practices in was vacant before, and it should be close."  Just a couple minutes of web-slinging if this New York is laid out like hers.  Longer on foot.

Yes, Gwen is suggesting the warehouse she just died in as a safe place.

"Maybe we split in a couple groups, find what we can, and then we can vote thumbs up or down on registering?"

The old man steps back from his landing spot and half-crouches into a battle-ready stance but stops himself going the whole way when he looks around and sees no immediate danger. Half of his bearded face may be familiar, but the other side is covered with silver metal and a red, cybernetic eye. Sue's mention of Deathlok would prick a memory but he does not react to it, no matter how closely he resembles the remark -- down to the logo of the American flag on his breast. The rest of his body is covered by a gray & blue tactical outfit, at once practical by being covered with pouches, as well as plates of armor placed around his chest and shoulders.

"Where am I?" he asks softly, more to himself than directed at anyone. He looks his gloved hands with bewilderment. "Who am I?" he asks even more softly. When he sees the legendary star-spangled shield on his forearm, a flicker of recognition scatters across his face, but his present look of confusion dims only slightly.

“That’s a question we all ask in this crazy journey called ‘Life’,” Sally said with a kind smile. “We’re in New York, that much I know. But I bet it’s not the New York most of us knew.”

She looked him over slowly, as she gently nudged Sue with her elbow. “While you’re waiting on answers from the Tallus, see if you can get the scoop on the Old Soldier over there. He looks like he’s been through ten Vietnams...”

When Sue requests a change of clothing, the Tallus dutifully materializes eight identical (except for size and cut) gray business suits. If anyone tries them on, they will find that they fit but they are not fitted... robbing them of any gravitas they might otherwise have commanded.

The Tallus also produces identification-- in the form of driver's licenses and passports, all in your civilian names-- and currency in the form of $200 in small bills and two very suspicious looking credit cards. The wallets are also full of various discount club memberships, receipts from various local businesses, and... family photos.

Your family photos. You recognize them. You remember when they were taken. And if any of you had ever been of a mind to carry your family photos on you... you very well may have chosen these.

If Sue wishes to press the matter, it is not so much a matter of convincing the Tallus you need more conspicuous clothing... it's a matter of getting it to understand what, exactly, you need.

It informs you, "Interface upgraded" no fewer than three times over the course of this ridiculous conversation, which takes upwards of ten minutes. However, if anyone had been dissatisfied or perhaps uncomfortable with the clothes they had died in... they are now made whole.

Gwen shifts back to the clothes she wore in the desert, and moves her weight so it looks like she's somehow sitting comfortable on the wall.  She wordlessly hands the clothes, minus the undergarments to Sally, more because she's not messing with the Tallus than her size.  For Gwen, her symbiote is her wardrobe.

She looks through the photos.  The one with Pete kinda stings, but she loved it once.  These days it just makes her feel guilty.

At Cable's short introduction "Pretty sure you're Captain America.  Where is a complicated question.  That paper is what we got."

I'm Spider-woman.  Gwen.  That's Sue, Sally, Wade, Rocket, Tigro, and Iron Fist"  She points to the others one by one.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:49, Tue 02 Feb 2021.

Sue was fairly aghast at the initial manifestation of clothes; jaw a little agape at the prospect of going about dressed like that.

"This is beyond squaresville! This is full out fashion victim!" she bemoaned to Sally.

Fortunately, some verbal wrangling with the Tallus righted the matter.  She began to get a better idea of what it would and wouldn't understand.  And, the upgrading was encouraging from her viewpoint, more than annoying.   Quite a feat of AI, really; Reed would have been both impressed, as well as jealous.

Sue spent whatever time was needed to improve the clothing.   Back home, she wasn't only a hippy.  She kept a few toes in another lifestlye, a more conservative one, notwithstanding that some of her brothers & sisters took issue with it.    She was her own woman, had her reasons, and hell, a Gemini to boot.

She'd no clue what was in style thirty seven years past her time.   But, Gwen didn't dress like one of the Jetsons, exactly, and she wagered some things slower to go out of style than others.

She ended up with a fitted blouse, knee-length skirt, brown leather heel boots, and a small, suede purse.  She consulted Gwen:

"Ok, so are these threads going to pass in 2006?"   And then there was of course the Tallus.

"Tallus - can you conceal yourself?  Future or no, I doubt you're going to pass as a designer accessory."   

"And we now need full mission parameters from you.   As well as whatever information you can give us about our new friend here," she added, taking Sally's request.

The Tallus starts vibrating violently against Sue's forearm and grows painfully hot for almost a minute-- she isn't seriously burned, but it smarts.

The Tallus emits a short, sharp squeal. "negative."



It chirps again, almost as brightly as the first time.



OOC: Let me finish following up with our cyborg friend before I decide what to reveal about him right now.

"Not what I wore for my first week of school, but it should do."  If she wants to wear heels, that seems a little unwise but not Gwen's problem.  I should make sure that ID doesn't have my real birthdate on it.  No use in one that says I'm 5.

Sue winced in pain, as the Tallus attempted to -- what, merge itself into her arm?  She was just as glad it failed.

"Okay, fine, I can just turn you invisible when it's a matter of blending in.   Do you anticipate issues or complications if I do?  Do you need a sample of how my power works, so we can avoid those?" 

"And what's the hard limit on clothing?  Clothing that blends in, and is good to fight in, aren't the same. People in our line of work usually need street clothes and battle attire." 

"Operatives may recquisition a theoretically unlimited amount of clothing, provided that it is not sufficient to damage the timeline and is not employed to damage the timeline. All textiles are composed of unstable molecular fabric for maximum utility; all fittings and fixtures are composed of exotic nanopolymers."

The Tallus chirps again.

“Unstable molecules,” said Sally in thoughtful awe. “The Reed Richards of my world invented them. They’re quite remarkable, really. They’re these groovy threads that adapt to your body, even your powers. So, like, if you shapeshift, your clothes would change with you.”

"Did he?  He was only theorizing about it, in my own.   I thought it was his second most unworkable idea - right under the privately funded space flight.  I mean really, can you imagine?  And he used to come down on me for being high!"

Okay:

- We've got mission parameters - such as they are.  (Now I get why Rocket was so depressed.  Here I thought that was just some nice philosophical orientation.)

- Though of us that look human have clothes.   I don't remember how Rocket ,or now Cable, is supposed to blend in?  There was something in the Tell Us thread about it, but looks like it was deleted?

- I think we're more or less ready to move out of the alley...maybe?   

The old man is a human among a group of mostly such, but their differing attire might as well mean they're each from a different world. His combat togs would not allow him to fit in with this environment unless around the corner is a war-zone, but he hesitates to change into the manufactured clothes until seeing what the group does. And assuming he's meant to be a part of them.

The front page of the discarded newspaper blows up to stick against his shin. He picks it up and turns it over, to see the image of Captain America. He pauses a moment to stare at the picture and his face grows dark. "No," he mutters, more to the picture than to Spider-Woman. "I am definitely not Captain America. It's the one thing I'm sure of." He folds the paper and inserts it behind the iconic shield on his arm.

He looks up and out, over the heads of the gathered group. His guard is up, knowing that now would be the perfect time for an attack by an enemy, perhaps whatever brought them here or could sense they have arrived and have an investment in taking care of this aberrance of nature, that they are here and still alive. This, he knows, would be the perfect time for an ambush, but the action could be what might bring this group together as a team.

To Cable: "Well, you're carrying the shield, so it's decided you're worthy."  Some people say that the whole only the worthy can lift it thing is bullshit and it just weighs like 300 pounds, but it sure does feel comforting to think that when you pick it up.  "That said, it might be the most looked for item in the world right now, so maybe - under your jacket or something?  Until we get a little intel?  We're all new in this world."

Gwen is still holding back on someone else putting up a theory before she goes on about silk threads being webs and spiders being weavers.

"Rocket, do you want to ride in my backpack when we move out?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:28, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

"I don't think that's how that works," Wade said of Spider-Woman's assessment of the shield. "That's how Thor's hammer works... aaaand you wouldn't know an Asgardian if you tripped over one, so why get into it? Different worlds, different rules, probably different Captain Americas.

"Captains America? That can't be right. Anyway, I'd pay good money to see Buster Bunny here carried around in your backpack like a Cabbage Patch Kid. But maybe we can ask the Tallus if it can supply something called an 'image inducer'? Make Tigro and Bun-Bun look like humans?"

Sally folded the newspaper she held and tucked it underneath her arm. She made a face and stuck out her tongue at the bland gray suit. “Yuck! Can you conjure me an outfit, too? Maybe a peasant blouse, jeans, and sandals?”

Wade’s question reminded her that not everyone in the group would fit in seamlessly. She remembered the youngest member of their commune, a girl barely in her teens with an enlarged skull and enormous, black eyes. “I know what you mean, Wade. We could always say that Tigro is a mutant, but...have feelings about us improved or are mutants worse off in 2006?

The mutants who couldn’t pass as regular humans always have the hardest time. Like Maggie. She was only nine when her own neighborhood tried to lynch her.”

Rocket quickly gathers up any unclaimed wallets, and quickly paws through them until anyone stops him.  He'll talk as he does this.  If anything, he pauses a brief moment longer on the family photos, as if expecting to know people in them... before finally getting to his own last.  He stuffs one of the credit cards into his own wallet, and quickly drags the picture of himself and Groot happy together into the same pocket as the twig.  The picture of the full Guardians team gets to stay, though.

"What is with all the bread references when referring to me?  Last I was here, the only people who tried to stop me from walking around were the Avengers, and that was trespassing.  Besides, we all got 'valid' IDs now, and we're obviously part of a circus."

He tosses the borrowed (unclaimed) wallets at their respective owners.  Afterwards, he starts putting on the business suit over his jumpsuit, and it does fit.  Again, talking while acting.

"Getting Comms between us is a great idea.  I'll just buy what I need from a nearby electronics store with the Tallus money, and we'll meet back here in an hour?"

Assuming no-one tries to stop him, Rocket will start making his way out into the wider New York, assuming anyone who wants to follow him will do so.  He'll be very quick to ask people for directions, and make careful note of how to get back as he does so.

((That said, if anyone DOES try to stop him, he does stop.  He's very used to acting on half-formed plans.))
This message was last edited by the player at 21:30, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

"Yeah," Sue remarked as to Sally's anecdote about 'Maggie,' "I've seen that sort of scene play out too often back home.  I'd like to believe things are much different in 2006.  But I know how slowly the human race tends to work in terms of fixing social issues. And I doubt that varies by reality."   

"Tallus -  can you supply device known as 'image inducer,' per suggestion of teammate Wade?" This would be an interesting test...

"Somebody needs to accompany Twig Daddy," Susan gestured toward Rocket. "I don't want him going off alone.  I'd go, but I need to stay with the group, bearing the Tallus.  Will somebody please volunteer?"   

Susan will comply with Sally's request for clothing -  as well as anyone else.  I think for expediency, assume you've now got what you want.  Anything unusual, clear it with the GM.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:08, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

No image inducers. You're just going to have to risk it. No comms, no electronics, nothing made of metal. Rocket and 'Nomad' are always more than 50% charged... for reasons.

You can't reach Gwen's warehouse from the alley you're in, so you're going to have to brave the city streets.

Or... Times Square. On every side of you, there are brightly-lit, moving advertisements for businesses of all kinds. Street performers compete for tips on every corner; music, shouting hawkers, rumbling motors, and "private" conversations contribute to a cacophanous swell that makes those with sensitive ears (or symbiotes) wince.


Spider-Woman stops dead in the middle of the street, fixated on something in the distance. An enormous television airing... a commercial? A commercial for some Prime-Time TV drama.

As you're trying to figure out what caught her attention, the Bugle News Network cuts back to Tony Stark at a press conference being held at Stark Tower. The news ticker reads: captain america escapes shield custody | superhuman registration act takes effect at midnight tonight est | daniel rand of rand enterprises files class-action suit against shield on behalf of karate schools: 'martial arts is not a superpower'

Stark speaks: "Thank you, Mr. Brock; I hope our new Fifty States Initiative can count on your support. And now, for a very special announcement from my fellow Avenger and dear friend: New York's own Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man!"

Spider-Man walks out on stage in-costume, He mugs for the crowd, posing and waving, mimicking the action of his web-shooters. When the applause dies down, he says "Thank you, Tony. I'm here because I have an announcement to make. Being a superhero is dangerous, and not just to those who wear the mask. Because of the danger to my family, I've hidden my secret identity not just from my enemies, but from my friends. But because superheroes are finally getting official recognition and cooperation from SHIELD and other law enforcement, I'm finally ready to tell the world-- " He takes his mask off.

"My name is Peter Benjamin Parker, and I have been Spider-Man since I was fifteen years old."

The press conference collapses into bedlam. The BNN news ticker reads: spider-man identity revealed: queens ny native peter parker | peter parker has been married to celebrity mary-jane watson since 1995 | bugle founder j jonah jameson: 'no comment'
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:26, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

"Hey, that's MJ on that show.  She's a supermodel here?  And a famous musician!"

Fuck yeah, we made it big.

"How is she that old?"

Gwen is pretty caught up in this and when it switches to the news, doesn't pay much attention until the very end.  Then Spider-Man takes off his mask and she sees the face of her old best friend.  Her greatest failure.

"Peter?"  All color and emotion drains from her face, and she seems unable to move.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:53, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

The clamor of Times Square evoked dueling feelings of delight and irritation in Sally. The freewheeling nature of street life provided a spectacle that reminded her of Greenwich Village, and that famous arch where the artists hung out. “I’m digging the wildness here,” Sally mused, then caught sight of the rampant materialism and commercials. “But all the money-grubbing and anger remind me why I’m a West Coast chick.”

When she spotted the news clip about Danny, Sally looked for the terse Iron Fist. “Hey. Isn’t that you...?” The digital ads, handheld phones, and sleeker cars drove home how much the world had changed since 1968. The realization flooded over Sally like a Zeitgiest tsunami.

Then, the Spider-Man of this world shocked the world right before their very eyes. Even Sally realized the significance of the moment. The secret identity of Spider-Man had been the subject of intensive speculation and debate even in her timeline.

She noticed Gwen, and welcomed the distraction for some good-natured teasing when this MJ’s age came up. “Hmm. It looks like you’re old enough to be a mother here,” Sally said in a playful aside to Gwen. A look at Gwen’s shocked face told her the timing for such a joke totally flopped. “Hey, Gwenny. You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Are you okay, kid?”
This message was last edited by the player at 23:52, Mon 27 Sept 2021.

As Rocket waded out into the sea of humanity, she was less than happy. She was sure he was well used to watching his back, at least.  He would have had too much experience with too many species and cultures, to be in any way naieve.  And so she exited the alley with the others.

In her world, the sole part of New York Sue had visited was Rochester.   She'd never been to the Big Apple, just read and heard about it.    The full-out sensory assault of Times Square was more or less what she'd imagined, regardless of the difference in decades.  It was a far cry from the parts of SoCal she'd lived in and preferred.  She was reminded of Hollywood, more than anything.   No complement, in her book...

The enormous size of the screen fixed her attention initially; she gazed at the dark haired, mustached man in recognition and wonder:

"Anthony Stark-?  He's our president's son...but, he hasn't looked human in years. Not since that power armor experiment went awry, and he became the Iron Thing."   

The next figure was super easy to identify. Just like back home.  "That's him!" she said to Gwen, excitedly. "That's exactly like my world's Spider-Man!" 

The big face reveal, for all its impact and significance, was meaningless to Sue.  She was quite sure she'd never seen Peter Benjamin Parker before.

But there was no doubt that Gwen had.   As Sally said, it was the kind of look usually reserved for seeing someone who should be dead...

Rocket knew it was painfully noisy before he even got close to the crowds.  He folded his ears as best he could, trudged into the crowds, and began asking for directions within a very short distance of the starting alley.  He didn't make time to watch the news broadcast.  He had places to go, things to do.  He couldn't help but overhear it though, along with a handful of other things as he asked around for directions to somewhere that sells electronics and/or phones.

((22:31, Today: Rocket rolled 2,1,5,5,3 using d4,d8,d6,d6,d6 with rolls of 2,1,5,5,3.  Putting the clues together.
Trigger Happy Hare d4 + Unlikely Allies d8 + Duty d6 vs Doom Pool 2d6
7 vs 8, he fails.  Rolled a one on top of it. If this were a legit (prompted) roll, he'd earn 2PP.))

Rocket will pause after getting some vague non-helpful directions to laugh at the news.  "If that spider idiot works practially solo in this city like my new spider friend, he just painted a giant bulls eye on his family.  I hope he didn't have too many enemies."  Rocket will get his train of thought interrupted by somebody 'not seeing him' bowling into him.  A quick pocket check said his stuff was in the clear for now.  _{"Krutack.  Already behind schedule."}

((Those Enhanced Senses are a pain, right SW? :3  ...That said, had a whole fun chain of connect-the-dots planned, but Rocket isn't trusting the Talus to be helpful yet, given that being the 1 he rolled.))

Having noted the earlier arrival of Cable, Iron Fist follows the new team through the city streets, rolling up the sleeves of the gray business suit conjured up for him by the Tallus. It's certainly a far cry from the trademark gi he's so used to, or the bare threads he's worn more recently as a fugitive from K'un-Lun's agents, and the feel of it brings back memories of simpler times. Thankfully, quite a few of those "simpler times" involved fighting Hand ninjas and HYDRA agents inside the Rand Enterprises building in NYC, and for that reason he's quite accustomed to navigating tactical situations in business attire.

The breast pocket of the suit now holds perhaps the only items of value he has in this strange new timeline. A photo in his wallet shows he and Luke at the grand opening of the first "Heroes for Hire" office, flanked by a few other super-types who had bothered to attend. You couldn't quite say the two founders had "humble beginnings" when one was a billionaire, after all, but they had still faced their share of challenges in getting the operation running. Danny still felt a touch of pride at seeing their handiwork-- the lights on the illuminated sign above the entrance, the polish on the office windows, and the official business license clutched in Luke's big hand.

Another photo was of him and Misty at his 32nd birthday celebration, exactly one year before things between them had gotten... complicated. And then there was one more picture of Danny as a child with both his parents, before the plane crash that took them along with so much else. He could live without the money or other material things the Tallus had afforded him, but these memories were truly precious. (Really, the $200.00 is what the CEO of Rand Enterprises might have spent on flowers for Misty on a typical date night, if he was trying to be frugal.)

Turning back to his surroundings, he nods at Polaris' mention of the headline bearing his name:

"Damn well I would," he says. "Let them come after us. When it comes to legal jiu-jitsu, I was trained by the best."

He gives Sally a quick wink, perhaps the first sign of warmth he's shown anyone thus far.

Rocket, it takes you a few tries to get anyone to answer the damn question instead of trying to pick you up our pat your head, but eventually a tourist tells you he thinks he saw one a few blocks away.

A few blocks later, you realize he told you the wrong side of the street.

But you eventually find an electronics store. It takes you less time to buy everything you need to make some truly pitiful communications devices than it took you to find the store-- you're not sure how much money $2,314.87 is, but Rocket Rabbit's LibertyPointe Platinum MasterCard covers it without a complaint.

Rocket will need a safe workspace and several hours' uninterrupted work to complete them, however.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:13, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

When an enemy doesn't take advantage of a ripe opportunity to attack, the old man drops his guard, but only slightly. When the rest of the group ventures from the alley, he brings up the rear, still keeping an eye out. He doesn't react to the blinding stimulation of Times Square, but squints slightly while looking around. He fixates on the news story about Captain America for as long as it is on the screen, then considers the shield he's carrying. Even if the shield could be hidden on his back after he changes clothes, the side of his face covered in bionic metal would be a tougher sell, and cybernetics don't match anybody else in this vicinity. His effort to hide is staying in the back of the group, still in the alley. As he straightens to full height, he appears to be recovering his guard.

In a rare moment, Wade had nothing to say as the mission seemed to unfold ahead of them. This was obviously a historic moment for this world, and that couldn't be a coincidence. The mission had something to do with webs, and so Spider-Man's revelation to the world had to be at the core of it. But the others were all talking (except Rocket, who'd rabbited), and Wade still wasn't sure he trusted the old cyborg with the shield, so he kept his mouth shut and his reflexes set to High Alert.

Besides, finding out that Spider-Man was really Peter Parker was a bit of valuable information he might be able to make use of, if he ever made it home.

While he pondered the implications, he finally changed into his suit. He'd picked a bad day to go commando, but what could a guy do now?

Gwen hears Rocket's ramblings and Sally's questions but she's too shocked to react for a moment.  Finally she shakes a little bit out of it.

"The Spider's Kin."  Gwen has already changed Weaver to Spider in her brain.



"I need to go to Stark Tower."  That was live.

She turns to Wade and Tigro (guy taking his pants off in Times Square is unfortunately not an unusual enough occurance to comment on - the trick is not to look down.) and says "Check on his Aunt and Uncle?"*  Wade has a motorcycle and Tigro might know New York.  She hands the wallet to whichever one reacts first and says "There's an address in Queens on the id.  The Parkers are across the street.".

Then she starts running towards the nearest alley, whether it's the one they came out of or not.  If she sees Rocket on the way, (an occurrence that seems unlikely) she'll pick him up in the process.

If anyone wants to come along, they'll need to do it quick, as the moment she's relatively out of view she'll be running up the wall.

* Ben Parker is alive in Gwen's world.  Peter Parker is not.

09:33, Today: Spider-Woman rolled 8,3,4,5,4 using d8,d8,d8,d6,d6.  home d8,mpdms d8,enh sense d8,2d6 doom pool.  11 vs 9
This message was last edited by the player at 15:05, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

"Parkers. Right." Wade took the address and memorized it. He hadn't spent much time in New York before Reed Richards had obliterated half of it, but Funnybone never got lost.

"Better take a step or two back, Grampa America," he told Cable. "Things ae about to get a little toasty."

With a *whoomf* of flame, he transformed back into Funnybone, and summoned his hell-bike.

"Coming, Tigger?" he asked as he got on the motorcycle and revved the engine. "It's time to bounce."

Sue bit her lip, hazarding rapidly on what to do.    She asked the Tallus:

"Tallus, are you able to locate team members, if we disperse over physical distance?  Any capacity to facilitate communication between us, across distances?"

"He might have copped the shield, but the T-800 over there is no Captain America," replies Iron Fist to Funnybone's comment. Turning to the newcomer, he looks him over. Judging by the cybernetic soldier's weary appearance, Danny can't help but feel that Nathan Summers-- if that's indeed who he is-- looks like he's been through a war. (Even more than usual.)

"You're Cable, right?"

Sue decided not to wait for the Tallus to answer, she'd hear it along the way --  and screw the clothes - it was irrelevant.  She tossed them aside.

"He's placed his family at risk with that reveal!" as much to herself, as anyone nearby.

As much as Tigro seemed like a good guy, he was a little loosey-goosey.  And though her distrust of Funnybone was waning, she still didn't consider a demon-fused man the safest or most ideal of protectors.

Sue abruptly vanished from sight.   And then rose up into the air, atop and within her expanding force field --  and began following in the wake of Funnybone's hell-fire bike. With enough elevation she wouldn't lose sight.

Unseen rolled 2,4,6,5,8 using d12,d6,d10,d8,d8.  Invisibility + flight dice pool.
Invisibility + Flight + Safety + Outta Sight Protectoress + Covert Expert; -1 step for two powers at once;   Total = 14, effect die = d10 (reduced from d12) 
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

That is clever. Well played.

Stark Tower isn't far. And you're fast, whether or not you're carrying Rocket.


There's a crowd of protesters and counter-protesters here, and they are angry. They're clearly split into two camps, with one side carrying signs that say things like JUSTICE FOR STAMFORD and NO MORE VIGILANTES, and the other side carrying signs that say WE STAND WITH CAP or have an image of Captain America's shield with the slogan THE ONLY SHIELD WE NEED.

There are uniformed SHIELD agents keeping the crowds separated from each other, and keeping them from hurling more than harsh language.

Sitting on top of what is obviously a government surveillance van, with a toothpick in his mouth, is Bullseye-- he's out of costume, but someone has helpfully branded his bullseye insignia into his forehead for you. He's watching the crowd, and occasionally lifting his left hand to his ear.

He's working for Stark.

And he's guarding the front doors.



It's a lot farther to get to Queens from Times Square. But you're a lot faster.

You find the address from Gwen's driver's license. It's a quaint two-story home with a wooden plaque proclaiming that The Stacy's (sic) live there. Some of the windows are boarded up, there are no cars in the driveway, and even the FOR SALE sign has fallen into disrepair.

The Stacys have not lived there for awhile now.

Across the street, the house appears to be in much better condition. There's no plaque, but the mailbox out front reads PARKER.



"Affirmative." Sue is momentarily aware of the absolute direction and distance of each of her teammates, plus their current vector.

"The Tallus is capable of facilitating long-distance communications upon request."

It's still a long way from Times Square to Queens. And you may be taking the direct route... but you're not as fast as Hell.

'Superb!'    Though there was no one to see or hear, gone was the hippie lingo that marked her casual conversation and banter:

Tallus: "Can long distance communication be maintained as a perpetual link?   If it can, then initiate with all team members.   Are you able to pinpoint location of individuals other than the team, if given enough description or information?"   

"Unless initiation is going to hurt!" she added hastily, remembering her arm. "Do not do anything that will shock, burn, or give teammates migraines, without warning me first!"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:25, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

"Affirmative." Every member of the team is now capable of broadcasting telepathic communications to the whole team; you are aware of this presence, but it is unintrusive and unobtrustive.



The Tallus whirrs for several seconds, and then makes an alarming grinding noise. "Negative," it finally responds.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:27, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

All team members broadcast:  *I'm capable of pinpointing all of your locations, and your vectors, via the Tallus -- unfortunately, that's not going to work for locating anybody else.  I asked. But we can easily keep track of each other, which will make it easier to bring in the calvary, when needed!* 

Gwen's never been inside Stark Tower (it is however easy to find one with STARK on the side) and wouldn't know the differences between this one and hers but there's a mob and a lot of security at the front door.  Things are certainly different here.  SHIELD was closely associated with Captain America in her world, not with some military contractor.  And working with Bullseye?  Is he working with Murdock too?

A spider doesn't usually have to use the front door.  Or is Gwen Stacy just on the guest list?

Gwen checks her options from the top of a nearby building for hints as to where in the building the press conference might have been, if there's another place Peter and MJ might be, and if there's another entrance option available to her.

She hides the backpack here, except the phone, which disappears into her suit.  She mentally asks Venom to shift colors white to red, black to blue.  Like Spider-Man on that video we just saw.  It won't get the web pattern right (not without some trial and error or touching Peter's suit) but maybe looking more like Spider-Man will help from a distance.


14:31, Today: Spider-Woman rolled 14 using 4d8 with rolls of 3,4,2,5.  home d8 peters death d8 enh senses d8 covert d8.  9 with d8 effect
I'm unsure if I should roll this against the doom pool or if Bullseye contests.

This post is intentionally vague about if Rocket or anyone else tagged along on my brief web-swing.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:01, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

  Rocket is a bit heavy for his size, but offers no resistance to getting nabbed.  It does catch him briefly off-guard when you start making your way up the wall, but he shifts his grip and position to make the process easier.  He has some practice tagging along for rides, but they are usually taller.

Rocket almost cheers up on seeing the area.  Specifically, zoned right in on a particular door guard with actual recognition.  "Woah, that's a face I didn't expect to see.  I wonder if this Bullseye knows me?"

"Well, there goes my former job.  Probably for the best I'm here."  Rocket will notice the sudden shift in apparel.  "I'm assuming ya want us to get into the tower there, and I know the gate guard.  I'll go up and say hi, and you can decide if ya wanna sneak in or not."

After a quick detour to make it look more like he stumbled across the scene, Rocket will probably annoy quite a few in the crowd as he makes his way quickly around and over quite a few of them.  Sure, may start a bit of a commotion, (part of the plan,) but when he lands square next to Bullseye with a big grin and greeting, he assumes people won't be dumb enough to interfere.  "Hey!  Fancy seeing you outside your normal digs!  Special occasion?  Not that we couldn't make it one, it's been way too long!"  'If he doesn't know who I am, this could end badly.'

((Ya know what helps with covert action?  Distractions.  If I'm rolling to distract a crowd for a con, I got a TON of good dice. XD))

Sally didn’t notice half the group taking off until it was too late. She groaned, and was ready to magnetically stop a cab when she heard Sue’s communique. That’s cool, Sue, but maybe next time, we should work out a plan before we split up. What I read in the paper told me that collective emotions are at a fever pitch over this Registration Act. Like, everyone’s almost as divided and agitated over it as the War.

Our predicament is dangerous enough without getting caught in the middle of a civil war.

She saw that Iron Fist and Cable stuck around. “Guys, what do you want to do? I can carry us to either location —especially you, Cable.” Iron Fist was “local”, so Sally considered a third option. “Unless you have another plan in mind? Everyone seems so sure that this is all about Spider-Man. What if the mission isn’t about him at all?

What if it’s about this world’s Captain America?”
This message was last edited by the player at 23:54, Mon 27 Sept 2021.

Point taken.  He did just escape custody.  This might be a trap of some sort, set for him?   *A lot* of things *may* be the case.  We're missing so much of the picture, here. But the mission parameter seems to infer this Spider-Man's loved ones will *die* if we don't prevent that. That's why we went charging off.   

Tallus:  "Tallus, are you able to provide data about any of this world's inhabitants?  The more famous and relevant sort?" 
This message was last edited by the player at 23:14, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

Funnybone stopped the hell-cycle in front of the derelict building. The Stacy family wasn't paying for its upkeep, that was for sure. He wondered what had happened to them in this universe. Nothing good, obviously.

As he dismounted, the cycle vanished in a gout of flame. By the time he'd crossed the street, Funnybone had given way to Wade Wilson. He briskly climbed the front steps and pressed the doorbell.

In reply to Funnybone (msg # 36):

Flashback: Alley

"Aye. Sorry, still trying to sort my head, since all of you but me are dead, or undead..." Tigro climbs on the back of the bike. "Let's go funny guy, and it is Tigro please, I've heard enough bad jokes about that already, at least I won't call you Flaming Fail as a comedian in return."
He snarks back with an attempt at a disarming grin.


As they arrive on site:
Thinks towards the others in the sudden thought-web: "We are here Spider-Woman, the Stacy house is empty, do you think the Parker family would know what happened across the way?" He asks as he looks around the area and takes in the scent of what counts as suburbia for much of New York.

Rocket: Bullseye looks down from his perch. He casually takes the toothpick out of his mouth with his right hand, and holds it between his fingers. Casually. "You could say it's a special occasion. All the capes are gonna murder each other and I got a shiny new presidential pardon to sit here and pretend I can stop it."

He slaps the roof of the surveillance van a couple times, inviting you to sit with him. "Cut the bullshit, Rabbit. You don't show up on my doorstep on the eve of World War III looking to spend money. We have a couple hours before it hits the fan-- are we going to be on the same side?"

Gwen: Well, Bullseye is distracted. There's probably other entrances on all sides of the building on ground level, but they're going to need keycards. Doesn't look like the windows open. But there's a helipad and hangar bays on the roof.

"Wade and Tigro will be fine with Sue," says the Fist to Polaris. "It's what might go down at the Stark building that we need to worry about."

He shakes his head. "I knew Stark was a control freak, but this is crazy. And now he's gotten Spider-Man to give up his identity to the whole world? I don't like it, not one bit."

He looks at Sally. "Cap said he was gonna fight this thing with everything he's got. Hell, maybe he'll show up there too, and we'll get a chance to test your theory."

An elderly woman answers the door. She looks at Funnybone and Tigro quizzically. After a long beat, she opens the door and gestures for you to come inside.

She calls to someone deeper in the house, "Dear, I think some of Peter's friends have come to check on us. Put some tea on?" She turns to her guests and says, "He's such a sweet boy, but he worries too much. It's nice to meet you. I'm May Parker."

In reply to Timebroker (msg # 52):

"Hello, Mrs. Parker, I'm Tigro." He says with a grin and offers to take her hand for a kiss.

Sally opened her copy of The Daily Bugle again. “I think I’ll read the rest of the story so we have a better idea of what we’re up against.” Picking up where she’d left off, Sally turned to C9 for the rest of the article. Her eyebrows rose at what she learned. “Holy shit.”

Listen to this, Sue! Last year, the majority of mutants in the world were depowered in what this story calls ‘M-Day’. Currently, only an estimated 198 mutants still have their powers. Most of the survivors live on ‘Utopia Island’ off the coast of San Francisco, including the Brotherhood of...EVIL Mutants and ‘peace activists’, the X-Men. Wow. We really went down the Rabbit Hole after all, huh?

At least the X-Men & Brotherhood finally came together...

Sally folded the paper and stuffed it into her pants waistband. All this started because of a tragedy in a town called Stamford. A group of teenage do-gooders called ‘The New Warriors’ were busting an exploding psychopath who went by the handle ‘Nitro’. They were filming their sting for something called ‘Reality TV’. Sounds downright Orwellian.

Anyway, when the New Warriors confronted Nitro, he blew himself up...and killed most of the Warriors...and hundreds of school kids. Sally paused, and anyone listening over the psi-link sensed the horror she felt when she’d read about the tragedy. The Establishment blamed the Warriors for what Nitro did, and true to form, they blacklisted the surviving members. Sounds familiar, huh, Sue?

 That’s what the Registration Act is all about. The ‘Law & Order’ crowd are bringing the hammer down on vigilantes and criminals alike. They’re seriously freaked out! 

Sally addressed Iron Fist and Cable. “I think you’re right, Danny. We need to hustle on over to Stark Tower. I’ll carry us.” With that said, Sally summoned the considerable magnetic energies that she commanded. She generated a carrier wave that lifted the trio up into the alley. She attempted to tune into Sue’s location through the link or by sensing the energies of the Tallus.

“Next stop, Stark Tower, boys!” She would fly them to the closest alley a street or two from the Tower, attempting to avoid any more attention than needed. Upon arrival, Sally would gently set them down in a spot with plenty of cover.

OOC:

1d6 Iron Fist
1d8 Freedom
1d8 Mistress of Magnetism
1d8 Subsonic Flight
1d10 Science Expert

18:48, Today: Polaris rolled 5,7,4,1,8 using 1d6,1d8,1d8,1d8,1d10.  Magnetically fly w/IF & Cable to Stark Tower .

Total: 15
Effect: 1d8
Opportunity: 1

.

Sue's face was blanching beneath the field of invisibility.  It was horrible to contemplate.

Yes...all too familiar.   She was aware some people on the link might be attempting to concentrate, and that long dialogs were probably not advisable, albeit they needed the information Sally had just relayed.

Once again she bit her lip, and thought quickly.    Then:

I'm still closer to the Tower; I'm re-rerouting to join you.

Re-routing to the Tower --  unless I'm close to Queens, in which case scratch the above, I'll edit it, will stick with original destination.

If it is the closer, I'll use the Tallus to find them once I'm near. 

"Mrs. Parker, hi. My name is Wade. This is, uh... Grant. We're here to make sure you're safe." There was no point in beating around the bush here; May had guessed almost exactly right. The only detail that she had gotten wrong was that Peter had sent them. Peter didn't even know them. "Have you seen the news today?"

"Gwen attempts to reply back.   "My friends are so much older here.  My dad would be in his 80s at least...  At best he couldn't be there on his own.". There's a pause before she adds "It's not a priority."

She isn't sure how to direct these messages, and tries to send this one just to Rocket:
"Thanks for the distraction, Rocket.  I'm headed for the roof."

Gwen web-swings up to the roof, moving fast and hoping that anyone seeing won't think there's anything unusual about a blue-and-red webslinger hitting the roof.  Once she's there, she'll look for an entrance, out of site.  She tries to stick to the ceiling until she finds a door or a keycard that isn't looked too closely after.  People don't tend to look up very often.

Rocket hops right up to Bullseye's indicated spot on cue.  "I sure hope so.  I didn't come here to spend MY money, no.  To answer the question, I'm here to stop certain people from dying, but the lunatic who hired us didn't mention who.  I figure as long as you stop short of killing anyone, I'm game to render everyone who starts anything here unconscious or disabled.  That said, I got myself a different reason to chat."

Rocket lets out a heavy sigh.  "I got a crazy mind-reading cook paying the bills and teaming me up with a few Earth-centered 'allies' I know nothing about.  Given the gullibility of my new 'crew,' I need some info attached to these names to know what to expect when the cook turns them on me.  I wish he paid enough for real info, but I'll settle with a crash course."

Rocket will pull his wallet out, draw the bills just flashy enough to show he's not kidding about being poor, and stuff the wad of cash into one of Bullseye's pockets.  While he has the wallet open, he'll show off the fake ID with his other hand.  "Impressive work, wish I could trust it."  Putting his wallet away, he'll start with the bigger names.

"Not being from Earth and all, don't skip the obvious.  The first two I got are Sue Richards and a 'Mister Rand' who introduced himself as Iron Fist.  From what I've picked up on after meeting them, they're the most famous."

((Rocket may as well use the money.  Good thing the Timebroker isn't very good at keeping secrets between friends, Rocket has plenty of info to ID their likely alternate-universe counterparts with.  EDIT: Color typo.  If ya didn't also catch it, he intentionally gifted Bullseye an eyeful of his 'personal photo' to go with his ID reveal.  More chances at distracting conversation!  (Not that Timebroker would miss such a thing. :P )  It may wind up being a very interesting conversation depending on what pops up. :3 ))
This message was last edited by the player at 06:22, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

As the thought of how bad an idea it is to split up a group in a world they're unfamiliar with is, a fog comes over the old man's brain and in pausing he only watches most of the team go their separate directions, mostly into danger alone.

When Iron Fist speaks in his direction he has to assume that the "Gable" reference is for him. "Uh, no," the old man says, just short of a stammer. He blinks a few times. "I'm not sure who I... I... guess I'm a... nomad."

He does nothing to resist Polaris's magnetic levitation and goes along for the ride. As he looks down over Times Square, he sees the telescreens bringing up images of Captain America, and an instinct leads him to identify the displayed hero, but can't remember how. Then he looks down at his shield. The same shield from different worlds -- if they were to meet would it be in allegiance or conflict? Could they double the inspiration power the symbol bring or would there be fiery sparks as they strike against each other?

I wanted to use msc010 as my profile picture, but it's a bit much, and this one represents my idea a bit better.

Mrs. Parker smiles at the hand-kiss and ushers you into her dining room, where a man who looks like an older, less horrible version of the Timebroker is pouring tea.

"Edwin, these are Peter's friends, Wade and Grant. Grant, Wade, this is Edwin Jarvis, my..." she pauses and blushes, "... fiancé, and Mister Stark's valet and butler."

She raises her hand to her mouth and stage-whispers to you, so Jarvis can hear her, "Peter thinks Edwin is his boss."

It is Jarvis' turn to blush. "Now, May..."

Before you can take a seat, May pinches Wade's cheek. "Wade Wilson, I almost didn't recognize you without your mask. Did you really expect me to believe this face is why you never take it off?" She turns to the kitchen counter and turns on a... deep fat fryer. "Of course I've been watching the news. The Bugle's been airing everything they've had on him since... it started."

"I'm fine, Wade. We're fine. And you too, Tigro, thank you for coming. But don't think I'm going to let you come all the way out here and go back without something to eat."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:19, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

That isn't possible at this time. So, Everyone, Gwen is headed for the roof.



There's a lot of traffic in this hangar bay, mostly SHIELD agents and what look flight techs in jumpsuits with the Stark Industries and Avengers logos. You see a lot of keycards... but they're attached to their owners' breast pockets with retractable cord.

On the bright side... Stark isn't paranoid enough to require every individual to scan in and out every time they go through this door.



"No promises. Might start it myself if something interesting doesn't happen soon."



"Forget the capes, how'd your boss get that photo? I'll bet I can tell you which DMV it was taken in, and I'll bet you can't."

Bullseye closes his eyes for a moment. "Sue Richards? You know who she is. Between her husband, her brother, and their pet rock, she's the dangerous one. She's over at Mercy now, waiting for Johnny to wake up."

"Word of advice, Bunny, now's not the time to bug her."

"Daniel Rand, CEO of Rand Enterprises, goes by the name of Iron Fist. Broke my jaw last year. Think he's going to break on Cap's side when it goes down, but he's trying to fight this thing in court."

Bullseye pats the pocket you stuffed your cash into. "Hey, you wanna make your money back? Put him in one of these crowds and get him to light his hands up. It'll bring a smile to my face and make your job easier. It's win-win."

"This face? No." Wade was a little surprised that he knew the kindly old woman in this universe, since he barely knew Spider-Man at all in his own. But that was how interdimensional travel worked, he supposed. "It's a sad story. Seven brothers born with only one face to go around. Today's my day to use it.

"And I would love something to eat, thanks." It gave him the excuse he needed to stick around, if nothing else. "As long as you're not putting yourself to too much trouble, that is."

Aunt May chuckles at your joke. "Nonsense, Wade." She fills a wire basket with something from the fridge. "Will you have some too, Tigro?"

Without waiting for an answer, she fills up a second basket and puts them both in the fryer.

"It's all you would talk about when you were waiting for your legs to grow back. I've been keeping some in the fridge, just in case."

A few seconds later, she puts a couple of plates in front of the two of you.

"Voilà! Chimichangas."

From the ceiling, Gwen releases a bunch of spiders from her costume - telling Venom Go find Spider-Man or Mary Jane and tell me where they are.
Due to her unfamiliarity with the telepathic link, this may also be broadcast to the team.

10:32, Today: Spider-Woman rolled 6,3,3,2,1,4 using d8,d8,d6,d8,d6,d6 with rolls of 6,3,3,2,1,4.  spidey search - home d8 peters death d8 shapeshifting d6 crime expert? d8 vs 2d6 doom pool.
9 w/ d8 effect vs 5 (with a 1 in the doom pool)

This method of looking for stuff usually works - spiders can crawl into vents, under doors, all kinds of places.  But it takes a while and this tower is big.

And she can't just wait up here forever.
No question about it, Gwen needs a keycard.  She watches the group for... not that long, then picks out someone who appears to be on their own in a side room or a vehicle (lightly armed a plus)

She swings and attempts to quietly knock out her target.
10:37, Today: Spider-Woman rolled 1,2,3,1,2,2 using d6,d8,d10,d8,d6,d6.  keycard - violence d6, rushing the beat d8, reflexes d10 , covert d8 vs 2d6 doom pool.
5 vs 4 with two opportunities.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:09, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Gwen's spiders disappear into the building.



Gwen quickly identifies someone who looks important-- someone whose keycard will hopefully open more doors-- and pounces on her, leaving her unconscious and webbed-up out of sight of the majority of traffic.

The keycard unlocks the hangar bay door for Gwen, granting her access to the top floor of Stark Tower and the executive express elevator-- it would appear that POTTS V has the run of the place.

The elevator's director helpfully informs Gwen which floors are residential, which floors are industrial, which floors are administrative, and which floors are open to the public: the Parker Residence and the Conference Room, for examples chosen by pure coincidence.

Doom Pool: 2d8 1d6.

When he was waiting for his what to what? This universe's Wade Wilson could regrow lost limbs? That was... wow. Just wow. His own Weapon X had fused him with a demon of vengeance, but this Weapon X had gone in a completely different direction. Or maybe it wasn't even Weapon X in this universe. Maybe it was just his own mutant ability being different. At any rate, these Wilson boys were definitely not twinsies.

"Chimichangas!" Wade laughed. "You're awesome, Mrs. P."

What the hell was a chimichanga? It looked like a deep-fried burrito. Had nobody thought to do this in his own universe, or had he just never heard of it?

He dug in.

Angels sang.

Gwen whispers "sorry" as she webs up the woman and steals her keycard.

Gwen doesn't need a spider-woman costume once she's inside.  She shifts to the most professional-looking clothes in her wardrobe, and tries to get the photo on the card to show her picture and name.  Strangely the name is the tough part.  What is my life like when being Spider-Woman doesn't ruin my relationships?  When Em Jay is with Pe-" She has to catch her own thoughts.  "with Peter instead of Glory?

He's Spider-Man.  Not the Lizard.  He didn't die at 16.  You didn't mess up here.

Am I Gwen Stacy?  Osborn?  Grant?  Probably not even legal in `06.  Something else?  She sticks with Stacy for the id.  Whoever she ended up with in this world, this is the home of two of her best friends.  She belongs here.
"Parker Residence, please."

PP: 4
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

The elevator dutifully delivers you some thirty floors below to a massive promenade overlooking an... indoor garden park below, with stairs leading down to allow residents to stroll leisurely on paved paths through the greenery. A green arrow indicates that your destination is on the left.

You find the Parker suite easily enough. There are bay windows granting a view of the treetops and a keycard reader with a numeric keypad. The blinds are closed, but you can see a light on inside.




The three of you arrive to find chaos... two very angry groups of protesters seemingly on the verge of violence, with SHIELD and private security keeping them mostly away from each other's throats.

One of the security agents is sitting on top of a surveillance van, overlooking the crowd, and apparently having a friendly conversation with Rocket.

Nomad.

The name fit somehow. The hulking old man certainly looked like he had never known a home to call his own. And it was hard to imagine him fitting in comfortably anywhere in this bustling urban setting, on-edge as he was.

The Fist had observed his eyes darting over their surroundings, always on the lookout for some sudden attack. They were the same eyes he saw when he looked in the mirror, ever since he'd gone on the run from his enemies in K'un-Lun. He remembered the years spent constantly looking over his shoulder, certain each day would be his last. Lonely. Tired. Haunted.

"Nomad, then," he nods, after a time. "I'm Daniel Rand, the Iron Fist."

He motions to his companions, urging them to turn and look at someone in the crowd. Danny's full attention is now on the uniformed man currently talking to Rocket.

"That psycho with the crosshairs carved into his forehead is Bullseye. Old enemy of the Daredevil in my world. With his deadly accuracy, he could kill any one of us with that toothpick like child's play. Be very careful."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Not good news to Rocket.
 'Well, krutack.  One-sided conversations ahead there.'

"I'll take your word for it.  I'd offer to get ya one, any country, if it helped me out."

"Not that I'm picky about money that isn't mine, but that doesn't sound to me like it would stop a riot.  You convince me, I'll consider radioing him in."

"That said, I met a guy in leather with a flaming skull for a head, rides a matching bike.  Oh, and Wade Wilson.  Second guy thinks he's funny.  Ring any alarm bells?"

It's pretty.  And swanky.  Celebrity life, I guess.
Is the security here good enough after all?

Gwen gives the team a quick update over the link.  "It looks like they moved in here?  Lots of security, but I'm in."

Gwen knocks on the door.

PP: 4
This message was last edited by the player at 18:08, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"First guy's the Ghost Rider, some kinda demon biker, mostly other people's problem."

"And Deadpool? Yeah, I know that asshole. You'll like him. Gets the job done, if you can put up with his mouth... and you can just shoot him if he talks too much. Right between the eyes, buys you a couple hours of sweet silence."

She answers the door. It's her. She stares at you for a long moment.

"Oh, no... Gwen. You must be so lost right now."

She opens the door. "Well, come on in. Peter will be home soon. Let's catch up."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:24, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

“An assassin working for The Man. Big surprise there,” Sally said in disgust. She watched Rocket discreetly, and noticed how comfortable he seemed. “What should we do about our wascally wabbit over there? He looks pretty chummy chatting up the psycho in question.”

"Hey Em Jay.  You look great."
Even if you're really old.  Do I hug her?  Just walk in?

"I was pretty worried too.
I have kind of a weird thing to talk to both of you about.  If he's on his way it can wait a minute."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:43, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"I can't wait to try that out.  Problem is if things go south, a couple hours of quiet won't keep me alive.  Angry Sue Richards might help there though."

Rocket hears a familiar voice, and instantly regrets choosing then to ask about her, but he had another name to swap out.

"Got a big orange furry person who said they were an Avenger.  Tigro? Tigra? Tigger?  Cat People were mentioned.  That and a... Gwen Stacy.  She seams new to the scene."

((Yeah, nothing screams Rocket is a trustworthy bloke like looking through everyone's wallets, then chatting with a professional hitman.  Nice of him to work out a gender neutral Tigro question though.))

"A few years ago, I'd have marched over there and broken Bullseye's jaw just on principle," Danny replies to Polaris. "But I'm trying to use my head a bit more these days. For all we know, Rocket might be getting some useful info out of that scumbag."

He doesn't need to go into detail about all the pain and suffering that miserable villain has caused his friends back in his timeline. Instead, he directs his next message telepathically, so the others can hear what's going on.

"Our furry friend Rocket may be trying at times, but he's no fool. I'm sure there's a very good reason he's treating that cold-blooded murderer, Bullseye, like an old friend."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:03, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"You're pretty calm. What's the last thing you remember?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:26, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Sue, what’s your position? Sally wanted the other force-field caster around just in case Rocket wasn’t merely playing Bullseye. She watched the crowd for any sign of Captain America, too, although she wouldn’t know him unmasked. Hopefully he wasn’t too different from the version she knew. “It’s funny. Back home, the Captain America I knew would get down with this Registration.”

This message was deleted by the player at 19:22, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"Tigra? Yeah, she's an Avenger. Just got back from the West Coast to get in on this Registration Act bullshit. Don't see too many people trying to wear a badge and a cape at the same time. No wonder she doesn't wear much else."

"And the only Stacy I know is a cop that Doc Ock dropped a building on a few years ago. Almost collected a big bounty on that one, but some Fake Spider-Man croaked the egghead first and didn't even cash in."

Gwen laughs.  It's been a fucked up day.  "I can assure you I'm not calm.
It's easier to just explain one time.  Can I have a hug?  And coffee?"

A pause and then,
"You were ready for all this?  You feel safe after the big reveal?"

You can watch her heart breaking before she puts her arms around you.



"No, of course not. But hitmen and terrorists don't knock first." She breaks the hug and holds you at arm's length. "And it's not the first time you've shown up on our doorstep, Gwen. Sit tight, and I'll go make us some coffee."

From the kitchen, you can hear her speaking quietly: "Make it quick, Tiger. I've got Gwen here. It's happening again."

She comes back into the living room and hands you a steaming hot cup. "He said he's hurrying back. You can tell us your story... and then maybe we can answer some of your questions, too." She reaches over and brushes your hair out of your face. More to herself, she adds, "God, you're even younger than last time."

"About six feet behind and to your left," Sue informed Sally, without recourse to the Tallus, still invisible.

"Who is that Rocket is speaking to?" she queried, stepping nearer.

In reply to Timebroker (msg # 83):

The hug is really nice after everything that's happened.

"Not the first time?  What's happening again?"  Normal hearing probably wouldn't have picked that up.  "What happened to your Gwen?"  She takes the coffee.  She takes a sip.  Leans against the wall.  Puts one foot on the wall.  The other foot on the wall.  She slides up the wall enough to be level with MJ's height.

"So I'm from 'out of town.'"  air quotes with one hand.  Can't put down the coffee.
"Where I'm from, Pete turned into a Lizard at Junior Prom.  Spider-Woman saved everyone else, but I haven't seen my best friend in four years."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:54, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"Someone you don't wanna know," says Danny to Sue, without missing a beat. He'd had a feeling she would be watching from closeby. Good to know she could be relied upon. "Stay on your guard, or you might look down to find that toothpick embedded in your carotid artery. Bullseye might be acting like he's got it together, but he's a bloodthirsty animal at his core."

Back in their home timeline, Matt Murdock had never told Danny everything that had gone down between him and his hated archenemy. But then again, he didn't have to. The Fist had crossed paths with the assassin often enough to know that he was to be treated with about the same level of care as one would an extremely deadly, poisonous viper. Greater care, in fact.

"Okay," she replied to Ironfist, "I'll take your word on that.  There's a loopy dude from my world who goes by Paste Pot Pietro.   This guy should partner with him and be Toothpick Timmy."

Sue frowned. "It would be nice to know something about the Anthony Stark of this world. The one from mine was kind of a playboy shit hook, in the beginning, and acquired morals through hardship.   I'd like a better sense who this one is." 

"Tallus, can you supply any data on the prominent natives of this reality?  Anthony Stark in particular?" 

"Okay... Gwen... this is new."

She looks you in the eye. It takes her a moment to speak. "Here, Peter was bitten by a radioactive spider when he was fifteen. You were there. Is that what happened to you? You were high-school sweethearts, and you both went to NYU so you could stay together."

"Norman Osborn threw you off a bridge sixteen years ago. And a couple of times a year, you show up again, confused and scared. It's like losing you all over again, for both of us."

Peter Parker doesn't set off your Spider-Sense. Nor, apparently, Mary-Jane's. He closes the front door, walks over to the couch, and sits down. Silently.

He waits for one of you to speak.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:58, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Sally clenched when Sue spoke up, but kept herself from crying out. She was used to Raven seemingly popping up out of nowhere. Still, Sally felt relieved that Sue was close at hand. She couldn’t shake the feeling that Bullseye wouldn’t keep up the “friendly” act, just like Danny said.

“I’m not down with violence, but perfect aim won’t do him any good if he’s restrained by a few cars putting the squeeze on him.” While Sally had only been active less than two years, her powers had grown significantly under the training of Magnus and Raven. With all the news equipment, street signs, handrails, and vehicles on hand, I have lots of material to work with if Bullseye gets twitchy.

The knowledge of Bullseye being a homicidal world class marksman concerned Sally. Guys. I’ve just had a real downer of a thought. What if Bullseye is here because they’re expecting Captain America? After all, heroes who don’t groove with The Man have a bad habit of getting assassinated on most of our worlds...

Wade, how fast can you and Tigro get here if trouble goes down?
This message was last edited by the player at 23:59, Mon 27 Sept 2021.

The Tallus chirps:

"Yeah, the spider-bite happened to me."

Dead sixteen years.  Thrown off a bridge.  By Harrys dad?  Stuck in a timeloop?  There's a lot to process.

The door closes.  A face she hasn't seen in four years, looking more than twenty years older.

"Hey Pete, been a minute."  She looks so sad seeing him.  Guilty.

Coming in midway through the story shouldn't throw him off too much, since Gwen is sitting on the wall a foot or two from the floor.

"Peter was like a brother to me.  When I started out as Spider-Woman, he was jealous.  I think he wanted to be a hero.  And because I agreed to go to the dance with Harry.  He made a serum, to give himself powers... but he went way out of control."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:57, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Sally, all: When you began talking about this maybe being about Cap, that's what occurred to me. An assassination attempt.   Given that he did just escape custody.  I think we should be very much watching for that.   Also, if Gwen succeeds at swaying Peter and changing his mind, I think a lot of people will suddenly want *him* dead. So that all there PR work doesn't go down the toilet.

Tallus:  "Got it.  I'm guessing a psychological profile is beyond the scope of your services? But I'll take one, if you've got it."

In reply to Unseen (msg # 87):

"I wish it were a joke," comes Danny's solemn reply. "In my timeline, I'd always believed a Greek mercenary named Elektra was the deadliest assassin around. That was before Bullseye killed her with her own blade."

Hearing Sally's plan, he turns to her next:

"You might not need to go through the trouble," the Fist says to Polaris. "The Bullseye I knew had adamantium implants in his body. And you do control metal, right?"

“I don’t know Adamantium, but if it’s ferrous, that’s all I need for my powers to get a grip on him.” The more Danny told them about Bullseye, the less Sally liked him. “It sounds like he gets off on killing women, too. I’m a pacifist, but if he tries it with Sue, Gwen, or me...I can’t promise I won’t toss him into the East River.”

In reply to Polaris (msg # 94):

"I called myself a pacifist too, once," Danny replies. "Believe me, he's worth making an exception for."

"Thank you, Wade. Now will you go tell that silly nephew of mine that nobody's going to bother a couple of geriatrics to prove they're tougher than Spider-Man?"

Gwen sends a telepathic message to the team.  "Pete and Em Jay seem safe - security is tight and they live here.  Trying to get them caught up.  Apparently their Gwen is... complicated."

It's getting late. The Sun is setting. And you'll want to be indoors by midnight, whether you're Registered or not.

There's the warehouse Gwen mentioned. Or, between your papers and your plastic, you could have your choice of inconspicuous or luxurious accommodations.

Another telepathic message from Gwen.  "I told them what happened.  I don't like the registration but whatever happens - I'm on team Spider-family.  Staying here tonight if they'll let me.  I won't mention the rest of you if you don't want me to."

Was she a Punk, too? Aloud, she said, “Guys, we should find a hideout before we run afoul of the Super-Pigs.” Between them all, they had nearly $2,000. In 1968, that would have gone further than in the New York City of early 21st Century America. “Should we crash at Gwen’s warehouse?”

In reply to Polaris (msg # 100):

"Seems as good of a plan as any," nods Danny. He has a few alternative ideas as far as accomodations go, but best to keep those in his back pocket. If they were trying to be inconspicuous, staying at a Rand Enterprises-owned building would be a bad idea when there are two Danny Rand's walking around.

Turning to the Nomad, he remarks, "Looks like you might not be a Nomad much longer." He tries to inject a little warmth into the comment to put their new ally at ease, grateful not to be the only outsider on this team.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:23, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

In reply to Timebroker (msg # 63):

"Well, soon to be Mrs. Jarvis, I'm not one for too spicy things, but I'll try one, mostly has to do with enhanced senses.." He says and tries some of her offered food. He wonders how much food content these things ever had, but he can't resist a friendly face easily."

"We do appreciate this, I'm glad to see you two happy. I always worri...ah not important" He waves off the thought before telling them about his own Jarvis.


Telepathically: "I'm good with a warehouse, long as I can curl up somewhere. But do we want to get back together to sort this all out, and see if we can figure out what we're doing here more clearly."

He chews thoughtfully and keeps up some small talk with Jarvis and their hostess. "I really wanted to check on you with the news and all. Gets me worried about people, just want you safe really."


"If you need anything, I can be reached by phone." He smiles and gives them the Avengers card comm-number which does work like a cell, just a specialized one. He hopes can't be tracked by this world's Stark, who a guy!? He's a bit disturbed by that. But has a few hopes since it's not his original tech, but Ant-woman's super-micro-circuitry, built by ant colonies.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:57, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Are we headed to the warehouse, then?

Gwen, are you staying with your friends? We’re gonna crash at your warehouse if you need to find us. Since Tigro called back, Sally knew that Rocket was the only one unaccounted for. It was time to move. “Sue, if you turn us all invisible, I can fly us to Gwen’s warehouse.”

OOC:
Yes, feel free to make that thread.

Wade said his goodbyes along with Tigro, and the two departed. They walked down the street until they were sure May couldn't see them anymore, and then Wade transformed back into Funnybone. Together they rode to the abandoned warehouse that they'd been hearing so much about.

Rocket followed the various conversations, keeping to himself for the most part.

'Because he sorta is?  I wonder if that guy is gullible or got a sixth sense on reading people.'

'I might have three to keep track of?  What a mess.'  ((You have no idea. :3 ))

'Is space cold?  He's here to kill somebody, and on government pay.'

Rocket will snicker at that line.  If Bullseye gives him a suspicious glance, he'll shrug and point at his ear.  'If I had money to lose, I'd waste it on seeing that.'

'You could say that again.  Shame that's what he wants today.'

'Wonder when I should mention I figured out where their copies are.'

  Rocket stretches his arms out.  "Sorry, team had like, three good plans to get rid of you, and one was funny enough to pay for.  You don't need me to say Rand sees you as a liability.  You obviously won't like hearing it, but I got a word of advice.  This team's not messing around, and you'd be best invested playing by our rules this time.  I'd hate to lose one of my only Earth friends.  I played nice and drew a very thin line on dead.  I don't care if those capes can never walk again, but dead is off the table.  Past that, I need a promise or you're not gonna like that I'm the weakest link in this crew.  That said, if that plan don't work, my 'Plan B' is buying enough drinks for you to miss a shift tomorrow.  My boss's treat.  When are ya off duty?  I'd love to spend money that isn't mine.

Rocket decides this would be a good a time as any to share some bad news.  He informs the team of his more relevant bullet points attempting the telepathic link.  *In this world, Wade can survive getting shot in the head, Funnybone goes by Ghost Rider and sounds like he won't be here, Tigro is a female in town right now that is likely to be involved, and Sue Richards is at Mercy waiting for a 'Johnny' to wake up, but I'd put money on her getting involved if things get loud.  I'm gonna try and keep pressing Bullseye here out of liability range, so I'll be late assuming ya don't call me.  And if things get fun, do call me.*

((He'll figure out the whole 'sleeping' thing later.  Now, he's gotta buy himself some new complications for Bullseye.  Unrelated, almost posted this in the wrong thread. <_<; ))

((EDIT: Emotional damage!
00:16, Today: Rocket rolled 3,5,2,3 using d8,d6,d6,d6 with rolls of 3,5,2,3.  Convince Bullseye to play by our rules.
Total: 11 Effect d6
Unlikely Allies d8 + Duty d6 + Psych d8 + Relations: Bullseye d6 + Aww! (d8 to d6 +1PP)

Rocket PP: 1))
This message was last edited by the player at 07:21, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Why don't you throw dice for this one? You're attempting to inflict Emotional Stress on him. He's seen you in action, so you don't need to invoke Aww!
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:58, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Telepathic message: "Definitely staying in the tower tonight. Rocket, should I tell them the talking rabbit out front is with me, let him in?  Right now they probably think I'm the only one Timebroker sent."

"Oh, me too, I hate violence.  Unfortunately some people don't understand anything else.  And I won't exactly be shocked if it comes to it. But, then my powers make me extremely well suited to stopping it, or nulling its effects."



"If I don't smack him with the giant, invisible croquet mallet first," winked Sue.  "My pacifism occasionally gets repealed for somebody who's enough of a louse."



"Okay, uh-huh...sounds about like an 8.9 on Sister Sue's Scale of Lousery.  So the mallet may just be in order."   



I think probably for the best if you don't. At least for now.  And, I'm sure this has likely occurred to you and Peter Benjamin Parker, but if he has any sudden changes of heart, better he keeps quiet about it. His pro-reg pals will be pretty steamed about anything like that, if they get wind, I'd imagine.



Susan nodded, "Can do."



What -- Johnny?  Mercy is plainly a hospital -- what happned to him?    It didn't sound as though Rocket knew.

"Tallus --  any available data at all --  Jonathan Storm, brother of Susan Richards née Storm, patient at Mercy something or other hospital, medical facility -- requesting health status if known!"   

It was not premeditated at all --  Sue reacted just as if this were her brother, on her world, the concern and emotional stress very plain...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:43, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

“Sue, I know you’re worried about your family, but he’s not your Johnny.” Although Sally couldn’t deny that she would steal a glance at this world’s Alex if she had the opportunity. With that understanding, she sighed. Sally wasn’t big on hypocrisy. “Okay. I know that line of argument doesn’t hold water coming from me, because I wouldn’t turn away a chance to see Alex one more time.

If you really wanna see Johnny, I’ll go with you once we’ve settled in at the warehouse.”

The Tallus chirps:

Susan glanced at Sally, ran a hand through her hair, let go a breath she didn't realize she'd started holding.

"Yes...you're right.  He's not my Johnny.   And plainly, he's already got a sister, and doubtless other loved ones, looking after him.   So, let's get on over to the warehouse..."   

And then the Tallus chirped out its data:  A number of reactions and emotions were swiftly reflected in Sue's features.    She shook her head.

"The Human Torch-? Like that maniac android that served the Reich?    Period of deceasement?"  She gritted her teeth.

"Tallus, how, in this world, does anyone return from a period of deceasement?"   

The Tallus chirps.


"Does The Bearer wish to continue?"

"No...thank you.  I think that's sufficient.  I get it.   Le Fantastique, in some fashion, in other words."     In spite of an injured Johnny, lying in a hospital somewhere, Sue laughed lightly and shortly, shaking her head.

"'Sheer, stupid pigheadedness.' 'The Power of Love.'  I love those two, especially. And, if the second one can help the Johnny of this world mend, then he's now got another big dose of it, being shined his way."      She sighed.

"Okay, let's get out of here," she said to Sally and the other two.

Sue will render herself and the group invisible.   It doesn't seem like a roll is going to be relevant;  but correct me if wrong, and I'll do a pool. 
This message was last edited by the player at 19:48, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Gwen responds.  "Better to be here if that happens. MJ doesn't have any powers.  They lost Gwen here, the way I lost Peter.  16 years and it hasn't healed.  I can help this."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:19, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

They lost Gwen here, the way I lost Peter...

Sue took that in for several moments.  It was the sort of thing that might make her cry, if she dwelt on it.   'What a cruel, f--king twisted irony...'

To Gwen she replied:  I understand.  Do whatever you need to.  We're here to back you up -- whatever that means; running interference, waiting, just staying out of the way, or anything else. 

At least, I *hope* we can stay out of the way.  'Cause we've run into a little complication at your warehouse.   Three guys are here, investigating it -- Ironfist is speaking to them, seems to know one; big buff black guy named 'Luke'...   
This message was last edited by the player at 00:17, Mon 08 Feb 2021.