Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: MadPanda on 20-06-2016, 06:37:36</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-06-2016, 06:37:36</strong>
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				<em>Two weeks ago, the world went mad.<br><br>The first sign, cruel and horrifying, was the news footage from Tokyo.&nbsp; In the middle of an otherwise ordinary day, a portion of the city nearly two kilometers in radius centered on the Tokyo Tower turned to amethyst...people, animals, cars, everything.&nbsp; Purple crystal as far as the eye could see, capturing the agony of the transformation in heart-rending detail until something gave way and the Tower collapsed, shattering as it fell.<br><br>It got worse from there.&nbsp; Things, strange and terrible things, happened all over the place.&nbsp; A Great Quake rattled the Pacific Coast from Alaska all the way to Panama.&nbsp; Monsters sprang from the very earth in Central Park and rampaged through Manhattan.&nbsp; Sudden forests sprang up here and there, overwhelming isolated towns.&nbsp; Vast obsidian growths like thorny vines grew out of the desert to ring Las Vegas, cutting the city off from the lands around it.&nbsp; The Midwest saw tornadoes, black blizzards, and sudden, bloody outbursts in previously quiet little towns as old grudges boiled over into murder and blood feud.<br><br>And more.&nbsp; On and on.&nbsp; No single event made a perfect catastrophe, but all of them together in concert proved more than even the most pessimistic and cautious emergency plans laid by mere mortals.&nbsp; Dire enough to alarm one planner enough to set a desperate plan in motion.</em><br><br>* * * * *<br><br>The freckled, brown-haired young man slumps against the railing, glaring down into the magma-filled depths of the Grand Canyon with the angst of a thousand beat poets.&nbsp; The wind rakes claws across the loose denim shirt he wears un-tucked and only partway buttoned, exposing a medicine bundle dangling around his neck now and again.&nbsp; His mouth works as if he tastes, measures a dram of venom like a sip of fine wine while he decides whether to spit or swallow.<br><br>"You got a lot of nerve showin' up like this," he drawls, not looking away from the glow far below as if tempted to throw himself out into space as if he could glide on the thermals rising up from the canyon floor.&nbsp; "We were quit of the whole business, you said.&nbsp; I was done, you said."<br><br>Next to him, another man...old, still spry, dressed like a well-to-do gent from the Old West in waistcoat and frock coat, leans on his walking stick.<br><br>"I did.&nbsp; You were.&nbsp; This is...new business," the elder sounds as unhappy as the younger.&nbsp; "You worked out your debt with diligence.&nbsp; I have no further claim on you."<br><br>"Then why...?"<br><br>"Because this needs doing, and I can't handle it myself," the old man cuts off the younger, voice hard and sharp as the rocks of the canyon.&nbsp; "You saw what happened in Tokyo.&nbsp; You've heard the rest.&nbsp; The safeguards have failed."&nbsp; As the young man turns to regard him in full, eyes wide in surprise and growing horror, the elder's voice grinds on.&nbsp; "The other plan is in motion.&nbsp; Bring them together.&nbsp; See if you can get them to help one another."&nbsp; He gives his associate a brusque nod.&nbsp; "I left you everything you need.&nbsp; Better get going."<br><br>"Oh."&nbsp; The younger man turns back to the canyon.&nbsp; "So I'm back in."<br><br>"Looks that way."<br><br>"And you?"<br><br>"If we're lucky, I'll be back in time to help you explain to them what they've become and what to do.&nbsp; If not, then I won't have time to worry."&nbsp; He reaches out, his hand hanging in the air over the young man's shoulder for a moment as if the supportive gesture is one dare too many.&nbsp; Lowers it.&nbsp; Lets out a sigh.&nbsp; "I leave it to you."<br><br>A moment later, another gust of wind tosses dust, and the young man is alone along the rail, the elder vanished.&nbsp; Some time later, he straightens up and heads for a battered old pickup truck.<br><br>* * *<br><br><em>This is bad.&nbsp; This is <span class="bbc_u">really</span> bad.&nbsp; I don't know what that was the other day, but I could hear the defenses shattering all over the place, and some of the sounds coming from the Department of Works are even more worrying.&nbsp; I have to get down there and see what I can salvage.<br><br>I should have taken the time to explain this to the kid, but he's still pissed off about things.&nbsp; So instead I gave him the one thing that he can do better than I can right now.&nbsp; By the time he figures out that he really does&nbsp; have another reason to hate my guts, he'll have other things to do.&nbsp; The others will need him.&nbsp; That should ease the burden.<br><br>If I get out of this in one piece, I'll make it up to him.</em><br><br>--from Nyaruthotep's Notebook<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>21-06-2016, 10:48:04</strong>
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				Trees had grown overnight, throughout the town, without as much as a whisper. Morning found thousands of bleary-eyed people wandering through the suddenly changed streets, stumbling over the torn-up pavement, gawking at thick canopies hiding the skies and the songbirds. I remember being awake already, shivering, curled up, hugging my knees until they hurt. The cold rooftop against my burning forehead felt good. The moon was still up, refusing to let go of its place, its kiss searing my flesh, making me feverish and insane. I screamed, and screamed, as bones shifted and pain surged. The blood splashed all over me was not my own.<br><br>I blinked the memory away and looked around, gazing at what was clearly a dreamscape. Ruined buildings melded with a forest. Wolves and children wrestled; yips and laughter mixed, producing a mess that made me smile. Other parents looked at the wild children with similar approval. A warm wind bore scents of home. The huge oak beneath my palm vibrant with Life. Someone had a hand on my shoulder - his touch made my heart skip a beat, then surge... <br><br>The softest sound rouses me from sleep. It's well past midnight; Luna shines from above, pregnant and friendly, Her silvery light bathing the surrounding roofs and treetops in silver. I peer through half-lidded eyes, my movements very slow, searching for the sound that woke me. <br><br>There. Someone running far below, at street level, gaudy coloured jacket flashing through foliage. I can hear his breathing from here - he is panting, near exhaustion. His male scent giving way to panic and hopelessness. Two big shadows follow him, closely, the sounds they emit bestial, playful. Recognition flashed through my thoughts. I knew the man. All the small cruelties from Before surfaced, making me frown. <br><br>My companion stirs from his own sleep, the echo of my unpleasant thoughts prodding him awake. He looks at me with questioning eyes. <br><br>"Ah, it's no-one important. Let your children play," I whisper to him and snuggle closer, his fur warm and pleasant against my bare skin. <br><br>There's still hours before the Sun kisses the overgrown town...
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>23-06-2016, 20:09:41</strong>
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				The world was going to Hell in a hand basket. Apparently mounted on jet-propelled roller skates. And yet, somehow, life in the desert went on as usual. One would think that the outright isolation of Las Vegas from the rest of human civilization would have caused a panic. Instead the city doubled down on the very act of being Las Vegas. <em>City surrounded by impenetrable vines of black rock. Planet cut off.</em><br><br>So Jenny's life went on. Busy as always. Insane as ever. She watched and served cocktails as The Mirage lived up to its name as never before. And yet as ever before. On Monday, she connected Rosa from housekeeping with an immigration lawyer who owed her a favor (she had been the one to send him home before he completely gambled away his earnings for the month) to halt deportation hearings. One would think that the whole thing would have stopped on its own seeing as there was no real physical method by which one could be deported at the moment, but the City wasn't the only civic institution that kept going by its own rules. But even the Feds weren't willing to take on someone that was lawyered up. On Tuesday, management decided to add an extra 9:30 performance of <em>Show and Tell.</em> Maribeth's babysitter flaked out on her, so Jenny had to move around her hours and take care of her daughter as Mom pranced about on stage. Despite the cutoff in traffic to the city, shows up and down The Strip were playing to packed houses every night. On Wednesday, she managed to get the cake, gather the staff, and arrange an impromptu celebration for Peter's 30th birthday in the break room. She didn't know where anyone got the food any more, but the supermarkets were still full, and the buffets were as well stocked as ever. At least with pink icing. Come to think of it, the place still had water. And electricity.<br><br>Then came Thursday. She knew from the look on Candi's face that it couldn't be good news. "The whale in the high stakes room wants a Cosmopolitan. From you."<br><br>"Really?" Whales were the lifeblood of the city. But then again, they were also once the lifeblood of Mystic, Connecticut. Now Julia Roberts could barely eke out a living selling Pizza there. She tried to cash in a favor. She didn't usually - not for herself, but God... Whales... "Couldn't you do it? I mean the tips will probably be huge."<br><br>"Nope. He wanted you. He asked for you by... Well let's call it physical description."<br><br>Jenny answered with a sigh. "Thanks, Candi." As long as they kept gambling (and losing), Whales generally got what they wanted. She'd just have to remind the guy that this was Clark County - and it was Nye to the North that sold what he obviously really wanted.<br><br>On this, Jenny was wrong. Sure the guy wanted something, but not <em>that</em>. In fact, if she had known what he wanted, she'd have judged him insane. But of course, <em>insane</em> was precisely what the City was looking for at this point.<br><br>And for better or for worse, it was also looking for Jenny.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>23-06-2016, 23:56:29</strong>
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				Sophronia, or Sophie as she usually went, sat in a corner of the community center while other people argued. She had been driving when the quakes hit. Luckily, she had just gotten off the overpass on her way out to visit her constituents (well, her bosses constituents), and was able to pull over and stop before the quake hit in full force. Living in LA, she'd always known that an earthquake was a possibility, but she'd never expected it to be as violent as it was. If she hadn't been wearing her seat belt, she would probably have been severely injured or even killed from bouncing around inside her car. As it was, she only ended up with extensive bruising. <br><br>The tremors had seemed to last <em>hours</em>, but by the time on her phone, the main shock seemed to only have lasted about thirty minutes. The roads behind her were a mess, so she had continued onward, hoping to meet with some of the community leaders she knew in the area. <br><br>The neighborhood was in relatively good shape structurally, but it was obvious pretty quickly that the utilities were out in the whole area. Sophie had made an effort to 'rally the people', but the bruising on her chest had been much worse than she thought, and the most she was able to do was lend some authority to others as a representative of the government. That had been two weeks ago. Things went okay for a few days, but as the days kept passing with no power, or running water, or help from the government, things started to get tense. After six days, one of the local gang leaders had decided to take things into his own hands and declared 'martial law'. They started confiscating the few remaining supplies for 'rationing'. Sophie had tried to take a stand, but had just gotten pistol whipped for her trouble. Other's got worse. There had been more than one gunfight. Now the holdouts were holed up in the old community center and arguing about what to do next while Sophie nursed her tired and battered body.<br><br>"We can't just let them win. They're the worst kind of people!"<br><br>"Well we can't fight them either. It's just a matter of time before they get tired of threatening us and just start shooting."<br><br>"We should just wait it out! It's been two weeks, surely the government will be here soon!"<br><br>"We haven't heard <em>anything</em>. For all I can tell, there is no government any more!"<br><br>"They're coming!" <br><br>The warning filled Sophie with dread. <br><br>"Open up the doors!" A voice echoed from outside. "We want to talk."<br><br>"He's full of shit! It's a trick!"<br><br>"A trick to do what? They can take us whenever they want. Maybe if we talk we can work something out..."<br><br>The voices lowered enough that Sophie couldn't hear any more.<br><br>"If you don't open those doors in ten seconds, we're gonna drive a truck through them and shoot every motherfucker in there."<br><br>They opened the doors on six. Winston Brown strolled in like he owned the place, a half dozen of his boys behind him. Michael, one of the people arguing before spoke up, his voice only slightly tinted by fear. "What do you want Winston?"<br><br>"You know what I want Mike. I run this place now, and you gotta fall in line, or my boys are gonna drop you in a line. You get me?" Sophie didn't even need to look to see his cruel smirk.<br><br>"So submit or die? That's really what this has come to Winston?" Michael's voice rose as he spoke. "We were your neighbors, Your friends! Bobby, you know better than this!" He spoke directly to one of the young men behind Winston. "You and my boy Roy went to school together. You used to play in my back yard! What are you doi~"<br><br>"Shut the fuck up!" Winston shouted. The building echoed with the sound of a jaw cracking and a scream of pain. <br><br>"STOP IT!" It took a few moments for Sophie to realize that she had been the one to shout. Everyone was looking at her in confusion. And yet, her aches and pains seemed to be fading away. She staggered to her feet. <br><br>Winston waved his gun at her. "What the fuck did you say bitch?" <br><br>Sophie felt no fear, which was odd, because she was fairly certain that she was terrified of Winston Brown. And yet, she did not. She took three steps forward, her posture straightening with each step. A fire was burning in her belly. "I said, stop it."<br><br>"Hey, didn't I slap the shit out of you just last week? You coming back for more? I told you before that I run this place, and that nobody tells me what to fucking do! So you sit the fuck down right now or I'm gonna put a bullet in you!" Spittle flew from his lips as he screamed in rage.<br><br>The fire grew within her. Sophie closed her eyes. The fire filled her, and serenity came with it. Sophronia opened her eyes, and saw the lines of loyalty and fear that bound them together. How the young men followed Winston, while the others split their trust and loyalty between Michael and the other leaders. The threads leading to Michael were already frayed and drifting towards Winston, but they had not yet connected. They drifted in limbo as their confrontation played out. "You will not." And she knew it to be true. A small smile graced her lips.<br><br>"FUCKING CU~" The report of the pistol echoed through the building, followed by the meaty slap of a bullet penetrating a human skull. Winston fell, dead before he hit the floor.<br><br>"It's dangerous to fire guns indoors. Ricochet's are unpredictable." Everyone in the room was staring at her in awe. Sophronia felt <em>amazing</em>. She strode over to Michael and helped him up. She was taller than he was, which was odd, since she was quite certain she had been several inches shorter before.<br><br>"Wh-what are you?" One of the others asked. Sophronia looked at her quizzically, tilting her head. As she did, she felt something up there tilt with it. She reached up to feel, discovering what could only be described as giant <em>rabbit ears</em> growing out of the top of her head. Confused, she looked down at herself. Before, Sophia had been pretty, but unremarkable. Now... It was like a dream. Her skin was smooth and practically <em>glowed</em> with health. She was taller, curvier, and fitter than she could ever have hoped to be. Her clothes had already been in rough shape, and now she was practically exploding out of them at every seam. <br><br>“I... am the one in charge.” The threads of loyalty snapped tight to Sophronia, as though she had gathered them all in a giant spectral fist. She felt the power coursing around and through her. Sophronia walked to Michael and knelt beside him, laying a hand upon his shattered and bleeding face. “Don’t worry. So long as you follow me everything will be fine.”<br><br>An invisible wave of energy swept out from her. Michael’s jaw knit itself together in seconds. Scrapes and cuts disappeared as fatigue fell away. Sophronia laughed with delight, and her new followers laughed with her. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-06-2016, 05:32:08</strong>
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				<strong>Las Vegas</strong><br><br>Jenny found the whale easily enough--portly, middle-aged, balding, more money than either intelligence or charisma, probably divorced, certainly not the sort of entanglement she wanted.&nbsp; For some reason, he reminded her of Elliott Gould. He greeted her at the door, his tropical floral print shirt already soaked through under both arms.&nbsp; The room was way too warm. AC was out or something.&nbsp; He grinned, looking more embarrassed than she'd expected he would.&nbsp; He'd asked for her, right?&nbsp; So why would he be embarrassed when she showed up, the desired Cosmopolitan in hand?<br><br>"Ah, thanks.&nbsp; Come on in for a sec."<br><br>He backed up, wiping sweat from his brow with one arm.&nbsp; Definitely too warm in here.&nbsp; Maintenance would want to know about this.<br><br>"Look, I know how this sounds.&nbsp; Asking for you personally and all.&nbsp; But it isn't like that, honest!"&nbsp; More mopping.&nbsp; "The Cosmo is just the excuse to get you up here.&nbsp; I mean, I hear you're important around here.&nbsp; So you might...uhm, look.&nbsp; There's something out there in the desert, just outside those stupid vine things.&nbsp; It looks like Stonehenge or something.&nbsp; And I'd have thought it was some kind of tourist gimmick, but it wasn't there yesterday!"<br><br>He gulps the drink in one go, shudders, gasps.&nbsp; Then he beckons Jenny over by the window and points.&nbsp; As he says, there is indeed something out there, just beyond the obsidian thicket.&nbsp; And it does kind of look like a circle of standing stones.&nbsp; Weird.<br><br><br><strong>Los Angeles</strong><br><br>Sophronia, you've had an interesting few days getting your court settled in and arrangements made for all hands.&nbsp; Even with your newfound power and the devotion shown by your followers, getting the eyes dotted and the tees crossed to the last jot and tittle has taken up more time and energy than you'd like.&nbsp; Still, it's done for now, and future tasks have been delegated to people who know a bit about how things work.&nbsp; You have time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.<br><br>There's a fair chance that word is getting around, so Michael and Bobby have negotiated a loose schedule for patrol. The rest of Winston's immediate followers all but swore fealty to you after you healed Michael.&nbsp; They in turn convinced the rest, but what you've heard them retelling is more fantastical that the actual event.&nbsp; Still, they turned everything over to your custody and have been behaving themselves pretty well.<br><br>So it is not really very surprising when one of them arrives to breathlessly fall prostrate at your feet and babbles something about an envoy waiting for permission to approach.<br><br><br><br><br><strong>Silverville</strong><br><br>The wolves bring warning of the intruder first: their howls follow the wind, telling of a lone vehicle that has dared draw near the forest and the man who even now strides forth between the trees.&nbsp; Their voices also cry of his strangeness.&nbsp; He brings no weapon that they can see, but moves without fear even through the deep of the night.&nbsp; His presence confuses the Pack.&nbsp; There is something about this two-legs that unsettles them: neither threat nor prey, but something else.<br><br>For nearly an hour they howl his progress, but then the call changes.&nbsp; The intruder has stopped at the very edge of the town-that-was.&nbsp; The two-legs seems to be waiting.&nbsp; The Pack calls for Irina to come and see, to decide what must be done.<br><br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>26-06-2016, 08:22:26</strong>
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				The community center wasn't a particularly <em>nice</em> building, but it was <em>big</em>, and it would have to do. Sophronia had made her court in the very hall where she had experienced her apotheosis. The floor had been covered over with scavenged rugs, a dais had been built at the far end, and a large and imposing desk and nice chair had been acquired to be placed upon it. On one level Sophronia knew that the monarchical theater of it all was a bit silly and even vain, and yet... Well, she had the power to do it, and quite frankly, she <em>was</em> vain. Sitting on her makeshift throne and handing out edicts gave her a thrill. And it's not like it was a one sided arrangement. Her subjects, as she had begun thinking of them, were profiting well enough, and would soon profit even more if she had anything to say about it. And she did. <br><br>Already the spaces on either side of the center aisle were filled with piles of supplies, weapons, and ammunition. Everything her little enclave needed to ride out this period of unrest. Sophronia had found that with a bit of will, she could convince even inanimate objects to, for lack of a better term, <em>breed</em>. Where first there was one box of bullets, a minute later there were two. Then three, then four. In a few hours they had gone from most of her soldiers being armed with bats and knives to every single one of them having a rifle and sidearm with plenty of ammunition for both. The same trick applied to jugs of water, cans of food, and almost anything else. Besides serving her ego, the large room allowed her to breed a veritable cornucopia of goods while doing other business.<br><br>She had been in the middle of daydreaming about the different kinds of societies she might build when one of her guards rushed in and said something about an envoy. "An envoy?" She asked quizzically. "Is it the government here at last?" If it was, that might be a problem. She wasn't sure that her power was secure enough to survive reintegration so soon. Either way it didn't matter. If they were here, then she would just have to deal with it. "Send them in."<br><br>OOC: Sophronia will be using her influence to, first, make sure that her little fief runs flawlessly and without dissent. Her designated representatives are obeyed without question and everyone works diligently. Second, to make sure that via luck, wealth, and fertility, they find enough to both survive and keep themselves protected. I feel like these should both be considered plausible in the given circumstances, and since it's a small number of people, would be 1 influence each. If she can only manage one, having enough to get by takes priority.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>26-06-2016, 09:26:14</strong>
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				It's late -- well after hours, really -- but Carlos remains at Campbell's Garage.&nbsp; The boss has been leaving him to close up shop alone for months now anyway, so nobody's likely to mind his presence, and his apartment just doesn't have enough room to work if he gets another <em>idea</em>.<br><br>And there are plenty of ideas, ever since the world went crazy.&nbsp; Now that his actual job is done (which hardly takes any time to speak of), Carlos frowns at a pair of corkboards.&nbsp; On the left board are pinned a variety of news reports and other articles about the recent incidents -- everything from the crystalline disaster in Tokyo to the Pacific Coast's earthquake, not to mention the Central Park attack -- interspersed with the occasional note he'd scribbled after getting in touch with other Central Park survivors.<br><br>On the other board is a map of the continental USA, full of colored pins marking the locations of incidents.&nbsp; And surrounding the map, sketches of ideas.&nbsp; Improved building foundations to withstand earthquakes and inclement weather.&nbsp; Odd-looking weapons designed to penetrate the ground and strike burrowing creatures.&nbsp; Pavement solid enough to resist misplaced plant growth.<br><br>He taps a pencil against his chin, still puzzled over what exactly could be built to prevent transformation into amethyst.&nbsp; <em>At least,</em> he muses dryly, <em>this is more interesting than a busted engine.</em>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>26-06-2016, 19:18:36</strong>
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				As sweat began pooling on her, Jenny made a mental note to call maintenance as she entered the room. Vegas weather was never merciful, and keep the AC going was a cardinal rule. But that would have to wait - there were bigger problems.<br><br>Living in Sin City had generally inured her to the sight of monumental architecture, but generally one expected to see large buildings as one was going <em>into</em> the city. Seeing something like that from the inside looking out was quite a different matter. And it was big. The Ring extended from about Sloan in the south and Hoover Dam in the East, over to Red Rock Canyon in the West and Nellis up north, so for something to be seen from out there - pretty damn huge. <br><br>And even if someone could put something like that up in a day, there was also the fact that it was <em>outside</em> the Ring of Thorns. <br><br>Which left the other question. Why her? OK, so people knew her. She got things done. But Jenny was still just another cocktail waitress downstairs. The Mirage, hell <em>every</em> place in Vegas had management personnel devoted to making guys like this happy. For all she knew, Steve Wynn himself might take this guy's calls. But that came back to another of Vegas's fundamental rules - keep the Whales happy. Creepy or not, this guy would probably tip her enough to make the next two payments on her house. So she just put on her best smile and answered, "Sure, I'll look into it." After all, what was the worst that could happen? She'd drive out into the desert, take a look at the thing from the other side of the Ring, and then drive back, right?<br><br>And so twenty minutes later, that's exactly what she did. At least the driving into the desert part. The ease with which she had gotten permission to leave her shift was almost unnerving. Perhaps the guy <em>did</em> call Steve. But she wasn't going to complain about that. She had to stop about a mile out as she hit the line of abandoned cars on the I-15 from when the Ring shot up.&nbsp; Canteen in hand, she walked the rest of the way to the thorns. To be honest, up close the monument didn't look that much different than it did from the 30th floor of the Mirage; just a lot bigger. The Stratosphere certainly didn't hold the record for the tallest building west of the Mississippi any longer. Besides, if she was going to be surprised, she might as well have been done so by the Ring of Thorns, which had just done something it hadn't done for anyone else - at least as far as she knew - since its sudden eruption out of the desert.<br><br>It opened.<br><br>Jenny didn't know what to make of this, but she figured that if the Ring was making a door, she should probably go through. Of course, once she was on the other side, it dawned on her that if it closed again, she'd definitely be on the wrong side of the thorny wall in the middle of the desert. "Well, if you're gonna bet, better go all in..." she muttered to herself, and passed between two of the columns to see what the site might be hiding inside.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>28-06-2016, 08:44:33</strong>
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				Eyes upon eyes gaze at the Man from the gloom of the forest. Yellow, inquisitive, intelligent eyes. Here and there, dared by other youngsters, a young wolf would inch closer to whiff of this Man's scent, then run back to safety.<br><br>Despite the choke-hold of vegetation, most buildings in the town are still standing and functional. It's as if the town and the forest had come to an understanding, and were trying to live in harmony. There are many people still living here, as well - but they keep their distance. After all, a wolf might be curious and playful, but a human knows that such a Man is nothing but trouble. <br><br>After a short time, a particularly large wolf pads from he forest to stand in front of the Man. Its yellow eyes shine with intelligence as it looks the person over; apparently satisfied, the wolf sits and lets out a low bark. On cue, a pale figure emerges from the darkness between the trees. A naked woman - slim, firm, every muscle contoured, impossibly graceful, long raven hair shot through with wolf-grey. Her steps make no sound as she comes closer, eyes on the Man. Nostrils flaring slightly, she tries to smell the Man as well / an oddly animalistic gesture for a human. Silence spreads among the onlookers, only the youngest pups still rustling and barking. <br><br>"You have my attention" she speaks, her voice low and husky, eyes glittering yellow. She keeps her distance; the big wolf acting like a bodyguard.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-06-2016, 20:12:35</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>New York</strong><br><br>Carlos, you do not hear the visitor so much as sense him--there isn't a lot of vehicular traffic around right now, what with the bridges and tunnels mostly choked and gasoline somewhat difficult to come by, so the strangely sudden and quiet arrival of the beat up old vintage Ford pickup truck is a bit of a puzzle.&nbsp; Judging by the amount of wear and tear on the cab, it's seen a lot of mileage...but an engine worked that hard for that long shouldn't be quite so smooth or purr so gently.&nbsp; The young man who slides out of the driver's side looks a bit on the rough side as well--that's less of a surprise.&nbsp; Maybe twenty.&nbsp; Got a few days' worth of five o'clock shadow built up.&nbsp; Brown hair.&nbsp; Freckles.&nbsp; If not for something in his eyes, you'd probably just assume he's some farmkid who got more than a little lost.&nbsp; Faded green army surplus jacket, worn jeans, worn work boots.<br><br>He approaches only as near as the threshold of the open garage door.<br><br>"Mind if I come in," he asks, voice carrying a drawl somewhere north of Texas but west of the Mississippi.&nbsp; "I'm lookin' for a Carlos Esperanza.&nbsp; Got a message for him."&nbsp; He pats the satchel.&nbsp; "Know where I can find him, please?"<br><br><br><strong>Las Vegas</strong><br><br>Jenny, passing through the big black bramble gives you a case of the shivers, but doesn't seem to do anything else.&nbsp; A little bit of a hike later, you're looking up...and up...and the massive standing stones.&nbsp; Passing between them gives you another shiver, like a thrum of electricity passing up and down your spine.&nbsp; It feels good in ways that you probably don't want to talk about in mixed company.<br><br>There, looking for all the world as if it has been there all along, you see a battered old pickup truck and a brown haired, freckled young man in worn jeans and an old US Army fatigue jacket leaning against the hood.&nbsp; Arms crossed.&nbsp; Eyes hidden behind cheap sunglasses.&nbsp; A medicine bundle dangles around his neck.<br><br>"Oh.&nbsp; He didn't say anything about cocktail waitresses."&nbsp; Bit of a drawl on him.&nbsp; He sounds younger than he looks.&nbsp; "You must be Lady Luck," he grins, and there's a hint of mischief in it.&nbsp; "We be of one blood, ye and I.&nbsp; But that ain't why I'm&nbsp; here.&nbsp; Got a message for you, I reckon.&nbsp; Your name Keysworth?" <br><br><strong>Los Angeles</strong><br><br>"I do not know, Your Worship," the guard admits.&nbsp; "He does not look like a G-man.&nbsp; He does not act like a G-man.&nbsp; He is...too young.&nbsp; I will bring him to you."<br><br>Rising, the former ganger retreats.&nbsp; A few minutes later, he returns, escorting a young man of mixed Caucasian, Hispanic, and Native American blood--freckles across his broad cheeks, brown hair gone a bit wild, dark eyes that hold mysteries.&nbsp; Comely enough, but he needs a shave.&nbsp; His surplus Army jacket does not seem to cause him any discomfort from overheating, but he has unbuttoned the shirt underneath.&nbsp; Jeans and boots, both well worn and quite broken in, seem to make him a traveler of some sort.<br><br>He glances at your throne room, your entourage, and something like amusement seems to hit his eyes.&nbsp; His bow is just this side of mocking.&nbsp; When he speaks, his soft drawl requires a bit of attention to fully understand...but however teasing his gesture, his words are sober.<br><br>"I trust I am in the presence of the Lady Sophronia?&nbsp; I bear tidings from the First and Last Man, for your eyes alone."<br><br><strong>Silverville</strong><br><br>Irina, the Man looks upon your companion without any sign of distress.&nbsp; He smells...he smells different than other Two-legs.&nbsp; He smells of ancient sand and heat and parchment and resin dust.&nbsp; Beside that, it is his eyes that draw your attention.&nbsp; They seem full of stars.&nbsp; They do not roam your body, as the eyes of Two-Legs so often do.<br><br>"We be of one blood, ye and I," he intones, a protocol that the Pack recognize even though the man-words seem clumsy to them.&nbsp; "I bear a message for the Den Mother from the hand of the Eldest."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>29-06-2016, 05:53:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia watched the strange fellow through half-lidded eyes as he walked down the open aisle. She smiled as he bowed. "You are." She answered his question. Sophronia stood and waved the others outside. Once they were gone, she motioned him forward and walked around to the front of her desk and leaned against it.<br><br>She was dressed in a very expensive looking business suit with a low-cut blouse, pencil skirt, black stockings and heels. When he drew near, Sophronia tossed her golden hair and crossed her arms defiantly. Her smile practically dared him to make a comment or judgement on the circumstances she had created for herself.<br><br>"And what is it that this 'first and last man' wishes to tell me?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>29-06-2016, 07:08:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos pauses before turning from his "work," momentarily torn between pointing out the "Closed" sign and just accepting whatever work has shown up -- after all, it's not like he can't use the money.&nbsp; He ambles casually towards the entrance, frowning as he notices that the truck sounds just fine.&nbsp; Better than fine, really.<br><br><strong>"Well, you're looking in the right place.&nbsp; I'm Carlos,"</strong> he responds, reflexively beginning to smile before the obvious suddenly occurs to him: aside from the fact that receiving a message by courier is an entirely foreign experience, it doesn't make much sense for someone looking for him this late to show up at his workplace and not, say, his apartment.<br><br>On the other hand, it's not like he has any actual enemies (unless you count underground monsters), and surely he can handle himself if anything goes wrong -- even if this guy does look a bit unsettling.&nbsp; <strong>"You can come on in, I guess,"</strong> Carlos decides, gesturing inside before adding out of habit, <strong>"You want a coffee or anything?"</strong><br><br>The office's old coffee maker has been vastly improved, ever since Carlos fixed it up a week ago.&nbsp; The sludge it produces is almost potable now, which is practically a miracle, given the quality of the beans Mr. Campbell keeps in stock.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>30-06-2016, 01:56:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Jenny," the waitress replied as she pointed to the name tag on her black and definitely-much-too-short-and-tight-for-this-kind-of-thing cocktail dress. With another nod, she confirmed, "But yeah, that's me. I mean Keysworth - I can't say anyone's called me Lady Luck before."<br><br>"Then again," she added with a curled eyebrow, left hand now on her hip as she tried to keep her cool while at the same time try and make any kind of sense of all that was, she now had to confess, seemed to be happening specifically to her, "If someone asked me what I'd find in a giant copy of Stonehenge in the middle of the Nevada desert, I doubt I'd have guessed you and your truck... so fair's fair, right? So, anyway, what's the message? And who's <em>he</em>? For that matter, who are <em>you</em>?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>30-06-2016, 02:00:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The naked woman steps closer. Her regal demeanor clothed her more perfectly than any cloth garment could - itself in sharp contrast to the seductive, openly sexual way her body moves. A smile flickers in her eyes, even as she takes in more of the Man's scent from close up. <br><br>"You smell like Egypt. Like a thousand mysteries. Like something long dead that lives regardless. Something from forgotten books, or from the History Channel. You are a long way from home - while I am a daughter of this forest. How can we be of a blood?" Mischief glimmers in her eyes like a thousand uncut jewels. A smile melts over her full lips, as she appreciates the strangeness of this Man from close up. Something interesting, something new, something to tickle her imagination. A Fool, a journey, the Hermit reversed. "But my family and I welcome you nonetheless." <br><br>There's a simple plastic bottle in her hand - pure water sloshing within as she takes a sip, then offers the bottle to the Man. The fingernails on her hand are slightly too long, slightly too sharp. Mischief gives way to formality as she answers the words the Man used.<br><br>"I share what I have with ye, brother from afar. Be refreshed, and share thy news in return."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>30-06-2016, 18:22:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>New York</strong><br><br>"That's downright neighborly of you," the young man grins, taking only a single step inside.&nbsp; "Much obliged, and I'd take you up on it, but I can't stay long.&nbsp; Just here to drop this off and then I gotta be on my way to the next name on the list."&nbsp; He pulls a somewhat worn manila envelope out of the satchel and holds it out to you.&nbsp; It has C.&nbsp; Esperanza, the Bronx written on it in some archaic style of handwriting, almost as if someone out there still uses a quill.<br><br>"Hope you c'n make it.&nbsp; Might be worth it to get some answers."<br><br>Another grin.<br><br>"Name's Alex.&nbsp; Pleased ta meet ya.&nbsp; Now I'll mosey along an' let ya get back to work.&nbsp; Oh...there's somethin' wrong in that big ol' park over yonder.&nbsp; Thought you should know."<br><br><strong>Las Vegas</strong><br><br>Jenny, the young man finally gives you a slow head-to-toe appraisal, but it feels more as though he's doing it because he thinks he's supposed to rather than because he thinks you're just ornamental.&nbsp; There's a difference: you've seen the drunken leers often enough to pick up on it.&nbsp; Instead, he pulls a slightly worn manila envelope out of the satchel at his side.<br><br>"Name's Alex.&nbsp; Alex Breslau.&nbsp; I'm just passin' through on my rounds.&nbsp; Here ya go. Hope you c'n make it."&nbsp; Now he smiles.&nbsp; It's friendlier.&nbsp; "Eyes only.&nbsp; I ain't about to piss him off by readin' his mail.&nbsp; An' you'd recognize the name if I told you...but you'd get it all wrong.&nbsp; So I won't."<br><br>He turns to look up at the stones and whistles appreciatively.<br><br>"Impressive, ain't they?&nbsp; No idea what they're doin' here, though.&nbsp; Maybe it's the ley lines?&nbsp; Anyway.&nbsp; I gotta get on my way, so if I c'n hand this off I'll get out of yer hair."<br><br><strong>Los Angeles</strong><br><br>He bows again, not quite so close to the edge of disrespect this time.&nbsp; Then&nbsp; he approaches, stopping just out of arm's reach and going to one knee, holding up a scroll with both hands.&nbsp; It's papyrus, sealed with black wax.<br><br>"When he says it is for your eyes only," he intones, enunciating carefully as if trying to keep his accent from getting in the way, "I am not inclined to read the message and thus earn his wrath.&nbsp; I speak of he who is called No Refuge At The Gate in the elder tongue, whose reputation is much maligned by the ignorant and the fearful."<br><br>He pauses, and you see a hint of resignation in his eyes.<br><br>"Nyaruthotep sends his regards and an invitation to Your Benevolence.&nbsp; If it please you, I would dispose my charge and continue on my appointed rounds."<br><br><strong>Silverville</strong><br><br>He accepts the bottle, sips from it, returns it to you.<br><br>"Shade and sweet water to you and your Pack."<br><br>He laughs softly, rubs the back of his neck, his manner changing just a little as the litany of greeting finishes.<br><br>"Been in the desert recently.&nbsp; That might be it.&nbsp; Ain't Egyptian, so far's I know."<br><br>Now he does let his eyes wander you for a moment, and there's a flicker of interest after all...proof that he isn't dead, at the very least.&nbsp; He reaches for his satchel slowly, making no move that might startle your companions, and draws out a large envelope.&nbsp; Like him, it smells of dust and heat.<br><br>"Got permission to do this verbally."&nbsp; He clears his throat.&nbsp; "The First and Last Man invites the Mother of Wolves to attend a meeting of mutual interest and importance at the Four Corners in one moon's time.&nbsp; The Ancient Paths are open once again and if this world is to be defended we should talk.&nbsp; He implores you remember the old compact and act thereby, for Pack, for Blood, and for Forest."&nbsp; He pauses, a slight blush rising to his cheeks.&nbsp; "End of message, I reckon."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>30-06-2016, 19:39:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"This just gets more and more interesting," commented the cocktail waitress as she took the envelope from the young man. She gave a quick look upward at the structure as she attempted to explain what was effectively unexplainable. "As for this thing, all I can really say is welcome to Vegas. When things like this hits," she began with a gesture back to the ring, "the City tends to double down on the crazy."<br><br>Perhaps it was also crazy to explain the City being a living, breathing entity. Maybe not - perhaps it was just straying into the realm of poets and dreamers. But nights of crawling through her streets had taught Jenny precisely that - the City was something more than just its streets and the people roaming on them, just as any Las Vegan (not to be confused with those people who refused to eat animal products) could tell you that there was more to their home than just the Strip. The City was real, and Jenny loved her for it. (Was it even more crazy to think of Sin City as having a gender?)<br><br>"Anyway, it's been a pleasure to meet 'ya, Alex. Kind of a distinct one I'd say..." she added, looking up again at the wonder around them. "...But a pleasure all the same." Her smile was genuine, though still inflected with the concern and confusion that this whole episode had brought. "If you don't mind, I think I'll give this thing a quick read before heading back to town..." She popped open the envelope and began scanning the contents.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>01-07-2016, 03:12:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Good to meet you, but...I suppose you can't stay long enough to explain who sent this or why it's trustworthy, huh?"</strong> Carlos takes the envelope, and the tip of the pencil in his hand widens and sharpens enough to deftly slit it open.<br><br>Really, at this point he can't decide if he should be thrilled to finally get some answers, or irritated about having no real choice but to put up with this nonsense.&nbsp; Sticking the restored pencil behind his ear, he carefully extracts the contents of the envelope.<br><br><strong>"...You mean Central Park, <em>again</em>?&nbsp; I figured the place had seen enough trouble this month already."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>01-07-2016, 03:57:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia regarded the messenger silently, her expression unreadable. Just as the silence started to go from awkward to outright uncomfortable, she burst into peals of laughter. "Oh wow, that was really good!" She gasped for breath and wiped away a tear. "I'm sorry, I still haven't really gotten used to this whole thing." Sophronia gestured vaguely at the rest of the room. "I mean, don't get me wrong, I do get a thrill out of it all, but I can't help but feel a little silly now and again." Her smile faded. "I suppose I'll get used to it in time." She stepped forward and took the scroll, running her fingers across the rough texture of the papyrus. "Impressive."<br><br>Sophronia stared off into the middle distance wistfully. "I always wanted to get into politics you know." She confided. "Reform the system, fix the jerrymandered districts, reduce the power of money in politics. <em>'Restore the Democracy!'</em>" She intoned dramatically. "But that's all pointless now. Most people don't know it yet, but democracy, republics? They're dead. Governments like that can't exist any more." She took a few steps, pacing without thought. "At least until someone finds a way to keep people like me in check, assuming that's even possible."<br><br>She sighed and returned to her position facing him, one step away. "Thank you good sir for your service in delivering this to me. You may consider your charge well disposed." She dipped her head graciously and gave a wave of dismissal. Once he was gone, she returned to her desk to open the scroll and see what message it contained.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>04-07-2016, 10:42:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The naked woman ahhs and nods. A smile flickers on her face, now that the formal part is done with. The flushed cheeks of the Man don't go unnoticed either. Hips swaying lightly, her steps inaudible, she ghosts close to the man. Her hand soft and warm as she embraces his, her naked body close. He might catch her nostrils flaring slightly as she takes in more of his scents. Perhaps she's trying to detect tell-tale scents of oil from a firearm or a blade. Then again, perhaps she is judging his... virility.<br><br>"You must be tired of the road. We have a campfire in the building over there. Coffee, tea, sandwiches."<br><br>Her pull is insistent, if friendly. A disarming smile, a playful flicker in her eyes. Something deeper too - a desire, a hunger. The envelope with the invitation semi-forgotten.<br><br>"My name is Irina. I don't even know your name. Nor about the four corners. Nor the ancient paths. Not the first and last you speak of, after all. You have to tell me a bit more. And I don't want to hear about you having no time. After all, you waited here patiently, no? Come on, let me pamper you a bit while you tell me about this mess." Now that the need for formality is past, a thick Slavic accent creeps into her speech. The wolves around detect this, of course - its a sign she is at ease. Easily a dozen wolves lope from the surrounding forest, sniffing at the Man, fishing for a scritch between the ears from Irina, or simply accompanying the pair. Some humans come into sight as well, tending to their jobs, some playing with wolves. There is a strong impression of easy familiarity, of deep blood ties. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>04-07-2016, 19:42:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>New York</strong><br><br>Alex laughs.<br><br>"Glad ta see someone's askin' smart questions!&nbsp; If it were me, I'd learn from my own mistakes and give it no further thought.&nbsp; But you ain't like me."&nbsp; He gestures to the envelope.&nbsp; "What you need's in there.&nbsp; As for who sent it...you'd probl'y recognize the name, but everyone gets it wrong.&nbsp; Kind of like succubae."<br><br>The envelope contains a crisp sheet of parchment with the same neat handwriting as the envelope.&nbsp; It also has a plane ticket.<br><br><em><strong>The First and Last Man humbly requests the presence of the Lord Tinker at a conference of new powers to discuss the defense of the realm of Mortal Earth.&nbsp; Refreshments will be provided.&nbsp; The Ancient Compact and Truce is in effect for all attendees.<br><br>If able, we will meet at Four Points in one month's time.</strong></em><br><br>It's signed with some hieroglyphics.<br><br>"As for yer park, yeah. There's something brewin' up in there.&nbsp; Sign of the times, I reckon.&nbsp; Got yerself a...whaddyacallit.&nbsp; A Hellmouth.&nbsp; Just need ta find yerself a Slayer to go with it."<br><br><br><strong>Las Vegas</strong><br><br>"Sure thing.&nbsp; See ya in about a month, then."<br><br>He climbs into the truck, starts the engine--it purrs like a kitten, sounding nowhere near what one would expect from a truck that old and battered.&nbsp; A moment later, he rolls it back out between standing stones and across the hardpan desert floor.<br><br>And he's gone.&nbsp; One moment the truck is there, the next...interesting.<br><br>The envelope contains a crisp sheet of handwritten parchment, folded around a plane ticket.&nbsp; The handwriting is the same neat copperplate as your name on the envelope.<br><br><strong>Ms. Keysworth,<br><br>At the risk of offending your sense of propriety, allow me to introduce myself by epithet.&nbsp; I am the First and Last Man, a guardian of sorts.&nbsp; You have no doubt realized that recent events are not the end of Mortal Earth's trials, and that there is worse to come.&nbsp; I am gathering a group of like-minded souls, all of whom are now more than they once were, in hopes of arranging a way to protect and defend our world against what is yet to be.<br><br>It is with mingled hope and regret that I humbly invite you to the conference I am arranging.&nbsp; It will take place at the Four Points monument in New Mexico in roughly a month's time.&nbsp; It is my fervent hope that you will be able to join us.<br><br>Kindest regards,</strong><br><br>The signature is a bunch of Egyptian-looking hieroglyphs in a cartouche.&nbsp; Weird.<br><br><br><strong>Los Angeles</strong><br><br>He blushes a little, his formality slipping away.<br><br>"Yeah, well...politics is the art of gettin' decisions made without havin' ta fight a civil war over gettin' bridges built.&nbsp; Ain't always a clean game, but compromise ain't always as neat and tidy as a simple, straightforward wrong answer.&nbsp; Reckon I'll see ya later, then?"<br><br>Now his eyes linger, and you can easily pick up the hint of appreciation in them before he departs with swift yet unhurried grace.<br><br>The scroll is simple:<br><br><strong>Lady Sophronia,<br><br>Knowing your time is valuable, I will be brief.&nbsp; As you have no doubt guessed, recent events are not finished.&nbsp; The Mortal Earth is in dire peril and unless steps are taken to protect it, there is worse to come.&nbsp; I am forming a group of empowered individuals in hopes of fending off the worst.&nbsp; If you are able to join us, there will be a conclave at Four Points (New Mexico) in one month's time.&nbsp; I hope to see you there, where I will be able to explain matters more fully to all.<br><br>In the meantime, I remain your most obedient servant,<br><br>Nyaruthotep</strong><br><br>Well. That's certainly weird...<br><br><br><strong>Silverville</strong><br><br>"Alex," he says, relaxing a little.&nbsp; "Reckon it won't hurt none if I take a bit of downtime.&nbsp; I ain't like you guys.&nbsp; Not nearly as tough, nowhere near as powered up.&nbsp; That was the arrangement.&nbsp; But I also ain't the one should be explainin' the lore to ya, on account of I don't know most of it.&nbsp; I'm willin' to give ya what I know, though.&nbsp; Fair's fair and all that."<br><br>He allows you to guide him toward the fire, showing no more concern over the wolves than he would over a handful of friendly dogs.&nbsp; Again, his eyes turn to the trees once more, not lingering on your form.&nbsp; Perhaps he means this as a form of courtesy, taking pains to avoid even seeming to challenge you on your own turf.<br><br>"Four Corners is a place.&nbsp; It's where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet.&nbsp; Only place ya c'n stand in four states all at once."&nbsp; He grins.&nbsp; "<em>Also</em> smack dab on top of a ley line, but that's just an accident, or the sorta trap set in Compton, Missouri'd have been moved a bit.&nbsp; Anyway.&nbsp; So, yeah."&nbsp; He clears his throat.&nbsp; "The First and Last Man.&nbsp; He who is called No Refuge At The Gateway.&nbsp; The Peacebringer.&nbsp; I got a lotta epithets but no name.&nbsp; He's sorta my boss.&nbsp; He's...old.&nbsp; An' he's not here right now.&nbsp; Somethin' about things goin' wrong a couple weeks ago.&nbsp; Didja see that thing in Tokyo?&nbsp; All that purple crystal..."<br><br>He shudders.<br><br>"There's worse things lurkin' along the secret and hidden ways of the world, an' I gather the wards are shaken.&nbsp; But better ta let him do the tellin' for that part.&nbsp; I'm just a guy."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>06-07-2016, 00:42:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Four Corners Monument<br>...one month later...</strong><br><br>The astounding thing, really, is that you made it here at all.&nbsp; Things have slowly gotten worse as the initial effects of the various disasters have fully settled in.&nbsp; What news comes from other parts of the world is not reassuring: massive witch hunts in Africa, a coup in Egypt, Great Britain reforested overnight in a manner similar to Silverville.&nbsp; Japan announces the discovery of a lone survivor from the Tokyo Tower incident and all but turns the young woman into a pop icon overnight.&nbsp; A new televangelist in Kansas who has a flair for some special effects that...don't look so artificial.&nbsp; His ranting against the usual laundry list wouldn't be so problematic if Kansas weren't burning again and the Dust Bowl didn't seem to be making a comeback.&nbsp; So being able to get on a plane and fly anywhere, then rent a car and drive out to the middle of the desert only to find nobody waiting for you but Alex is at one and the same time annoying and incredible.<br><br>Alex doesn't look much happier about it, either.&nbsp; Resigned would be the right word.&nbsp; Still, you are the only five people in the parking lot at the monument.&nbsp; It's blisteringly hot, the air kiln-dry.&nbsp; Around you, the heat haze colors the horizon a shimmering waterlike blue.&nbsp; Alex, stripped to the waist, revealing a lean, wiry form as he perches on the hood of his truck, boots resting on the front fender, elbows on knees and hands clasped as he regards you all evenly.&nbsp; His medicine bundle dangles and swings slowly in response to his movements.<br><br>"I got good news and bad news," he announces.&nbsp; "Good news is, we're still here.&nbsp; So it ain't as bad as ol' Greyface thought.&nbsp; Bad news is, he ain't made it back from his errand.&nbsp; Reckon that means it's up to me, an' I don't have more'n a tiny part of what you all need for this."<br><br>He hops down, runs one hand through his hair.&nbsp; You're pretty sure the beefcake pose that almost results isn't intentional.<br><br>"So I guess...well, he left me one thing, just in case.&nbsp; C'mon inside.&nbsp; The center'll be as good a place as any.&nbsp; Less chance of looky-loos hangin' out on Route 160."&nbsp; He reaches back into the cab of his truck, pulls out a gym bag, scuffs his way into the monument proper.&nbsp; When he reaches the 'official' circle that supposedly allows one to stand in four states at the same time, he digs into the bag and produces what looks like a paperweight: a polished bloodstone pyramid inlaid with some coppery metal.&nbsp; He sets it in the middle of the circle and pulls a ragged bit of yellow legal paper out of the bag.<br><br>"Sure hope this works," you hear him mutter as he glances at the paper and then tosses it back into the bag.&nbsp; He takes a long, slow, deep breath, then runs his thumb along one edge.&nbsp; It proves to be sharp enough to cut skin, and he drags his bleeding thumb over the face of the pyramid before backing away and yanking a bandanna out of his back pocket to hold on the wound.<br><br>A moment later, you are looking at the somewhat translucent image of an elderly man with neatly groomed snow-white hair, a face like weathered mahogany, clad in an old-fashioned suit, complete with waistcoat, pocket watch, walking stick.&nbsp; He smiles as if someone's told him he ought to remember to do so at moments like this.&nbsp; The name 'Malcolm McDowell' comes to mind, or nearly so.<br><br>"Help me, Obi-wan Kenobi.&nbsp; You're my only hope," he intones, his voice rich and deep and carrying the gravitas of mountains...then breaks into a much more relaxed smile.&nbsp; "Ha!&nbsp; Always wanted to say that!"<br><br>(Alex groans and facepalms and grumbles something about having the universe's most irritating boss.)<br><br>"Okay, my little joke aside, if you're hearing this then we've got worse problems than I've anticipated.&nbsp; That means...well, it means bad.&nbsp; And you're going to have questions that I can't anticipate.&nbsp; I'll do what I can, but no matter how much like one of those holocron thingies from Star Wars this seems, it's more of a steadi-cam.&nbsp; And I'm improvising, because if I try to script this out beforehand, it'd take too long.&nbsp; So I'll sum up."<br><br>He pauses.<br><br>"Once upon a time, the Primordials made the Gods. The Gods overthrew the Primordials and in turn crafted both the Loom of Fate and the Exalted: the Solars to guide the world, the Lunars to help them, the Terrestrials to serve the Solars, and the Sidereals to guide them with prophetic wisdom.&nbsp; Skipping a few thousand years, it all went to shit.&nbsp; The Loom of Fate shattered, civilization collapsed, everybody died...and the world was made anew because life finds a way.&nbsp; They were called the Abzulim, intelligent saurians with incredible psionic potential.&nbsp; Their version of the Loom of Fate was two-fold.&nbsp; Two massive psychic data networks, like virtual computers, which served the same purpose as the Loom.&nbsp; One each for the two great schools of thought that dominated the cold intellectual meanderings of their great civilization.&nbsp; And then, stop me if you heard this before, doom struck.&nbsp; Only in their case it was a killer asteroid.&nbsp; Some of the Abzulim had already sheltered in an effort to preserve their culture and survived, but they're not really important right now.&nbsp; All you need to remember is that they survived and evolved, gradually becoming more mammalian to fit in when they saw Catal Huyuk rising and knew that a certain crafty ape was going to be a problem."<br><br>He pauses, grimaces.<br><br>"The current version of the undergirding of the cosmos is called the Department of Works.&nbsp; And if you're listening to me blather on about all this, it means that something has gone very wrong.&nbsp; It might be a civil war between the two Abzulim factions, but frankly those old lizards have gotten soft and developed emotional sides and settled down.&nbsp; It might be that some idiot somewhere with too much heaven on their mind and too much weapons-grade plutonium on their hands found one of the barriers against the Outer Dark and blew it open.&nbsp; Or something might simply have gone wrong, like that rock that wiped out the dinosaurs.&nbsp; And that means that you, gentle listener, may be one of the only things standing between a total collapse of Human civilization as you know it and a veritable tsunami of non-Euclidian horror."<br><br>Another pause, this accompanied by a tired sigh.<br><br>"I can't prove it to you, but odds are that things are going poorly.&nbsp; That's usually what happens.&nbsp; Monsters from a thousand years of nightmares turn out to be real.&nbsp; More natural disasters than you can threaten with a sword.&nbsp; Omens and portents and false prophets with flashy miracles and no scruples to speak of.&nbsp; So I need to ask for your help.&nbsp; While you've been coming to grips with your new power...oh.&nbsp; Right.&nbsp; I didn't explain that part, did I?&nbsp; Think of yourself as the spare back-up contingency disaster response plan.&nbsp; In case of cosmic disaster, certain worthy persons get a little bit of a power up.&nbsp; I hope it isn't too inconvenient.&nbsp; Sort of the same thing as Exaltation, but I borrowed a few ideas from some comic books.&nbsp; Every good mythology needs a bit of an update now and again, yeah? Anyway."<br><br>He coughs once, grins playfully.<br><br>"I take my laughs where I get them.&nbsp; So sue me.&nbsp; So here you are, coming to grips with whatever your powers are, and I'm down in the Department of Works trying to keep the universe from coming totally off the rails.&nbsp; I wish I could tell you that everything's going to be all right.&nbsp; I do know that <em>without</em> your help, it won't be.&nbsp; Ever again.&nbsp; You'll need to work together, too...because some of what's out there is big and ugly and eats cities for breakfast.&nbsp; Now I can't force you to play ball, or to play nicely, but...call this an appeal to your enlightened self interest."<br><br>He sobers.<br><br>"If all goes well, I will catch up with you later.&nbsp; If all goes well, I'm just running late because reasons.&nbsp; If not...let's not think too much about that, because it won't be pretty.&nbsp; My Harbinger will be in touch. "<br><br>The image fades, leaving Alex's soft curses in Lushootseed as accompaniment.&nbsp; He plucks the pyramid from the circle, tosses it back in the gym bag, and turns to face you.<br><br>"Okay, so...any reasonable questions?"<br><br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Four Corners in real life</div><div class="spoiler_body">https://www.google.com/maps/place/Four+Corners+Monument/@36.9986279,-109.0449916,205m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x873a25d2c9c70acd:0xc9945bd27b66993a!8m2!3d36.998984!4d-109.0451967?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/place/Four+Corners+Monument/@36.9986279,-109.0449916,205m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x873a25d2c9c70acd:0xc9945bd27b66993a!8m2!3d36.998984!4d-109.0451967?hl=en)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Lushoo-whatsis?</div><div class="spoiler_body">Lushootseed is one of the Salishan language family. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lushootseed_language (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lushootseed_language)&nbsp; </div></div><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>06-07-2016, 07:39:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The Department of Works? Sounds about right." The Jenny of a month ago would have found the whole thing absurd. But then again, the Jenny of a month ago worked for the Mirage. Technically she still <em>did</em> - but most cocktail waitresses didn't get time off to go running off to locations unknown. Most cocktail waitresses couldn't catch a flight out of McCarran where, given that road transport into Vegas was now an impossibility, had become more busy even as pretty much every other airport in the country had run down to a crawl. Most cocktail waitresses didn't have their image blazoned on one out of every two bus stop benches and one out of every three buses on the Strip with the caption - NEED HELP? CALL JENNY! 867-5309. For that matter, most cocktail waitresses didn't have their phone numbers magically changed to name-appropriate 1980's song lyrics.<br><br>Her W-2 said she worked for The Mirage, but in reality, she now worked for The City.<br><br>The good news was that this time, she knew the trip was coming, so unlike at least half the time, when she was putting out fires (sometimes literally) in her cocktail dress, here she was comfortably dressed in a white Absinthe T-Shirt and&nbsp; a pair of cargo shorts. She was certainly glad that she had the month - things were certainly going crazy both in The City and out, but at least now, things had come to a point where she could be away.<br><br>Which meant - here. Looking back at the others, she smiled, a bit wearily, and said, "Well the only one here I know is Alex, but it looks like we're going to have to work together, so we might as well get to know each other. I'm Jenny. I'm from Vegas. Really I work for her - The City I mean. I know it sound funny, but, probably less funny than it would've before this all started, and I get kind of the feeling that the three of you might have a better understanding of what I mean than most people."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>07-07-2016, 07:23:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos has had plenty of free time lately, for a definition of "free" limited strictly to the absence of official employment.&nbsp; Campbell's Garage basically isn't doing business when no one can drive anywhere, but Central Park is doing <em>plenty</em> of business, and the garage has proven as good a staging area as any for collecting material and distributing matériel.<br><br>Fortunately, Carlos has managed to get things kinda-under-control enough that he can afford to attend the meeting at Four Corners.&nbsp; Suspecting a formal-ish occasion, he's dressed uncharacteristically well, in khaki shorts and a burgundy polo shirt.&nbsp; The dark green car he arrived in looks normal enough at a glance (from a distance) thanks to some quickly-applied paint, though the chassis is constructed mainly of rock, sand, and plant matter.<br><br>(Carlos has never rented a car in his life, and he's not about to start <em>now</em>.&nbsp; $100 a day will buy an awful lot of groceries.)<br><br>He nods to the ladies, lifting one hand in greeting.&nbsp; <strong>"Nice to meet you all.&nbsp; Uh, I mean, not that there's much <em>nice</em> about our situation, but...you know."</strong>&nbsp; He sighs.&nbsp; <strong>"I'm Carlos.&nbsp; New York City.&nbsp; And before anyone asks, Central Park hasn't improved much in the last few weeks.&nbsp; I don't know that I'd say I work <em>for</em> the city as such, but I've been trying to keep Manhattan under control."</strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; His eyes flick to Alex cautiously, and he pulls the folded-up parchment from a pocket.&nbsp; "<strong>I'm not sure where to even begin with all the questions, but this one's probably important -- what's the Ancient Compact and Truce?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>08-07-2016, 06:03:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Planning for the trip had actually been <em>exciting</em>. It gave Sophronia the excuse she hadn't known she needed to really begin pushing her authority. Scavenging parties were given new directives, supplies were counted and organized, chains of command were officially established. She didn't realize it at first, but after a few days she couldn't deny that she was having the time of her life. Figuring out exactly how they were going to get there was the first challenge. No one had any idea if the roads were still intact enough to drive over, or if the airport was still even vaguely functional. <br><br><em>Luckily</em>, however, they were able to locate an ATV in a storage unit a few blocks away, allowing for some proper scouting. After a few days of mapping out routes and expanding their search area, Sophronia's scouts <em>just happened</em> to stumble upon an entirely intact tour bus. It took some doing to get it back to the neighborhood, but she judge it to be worth the trouble. A few more days to ensure she was leaving sufficient supplies behind as well as bringing them along, and then it was time to leave. Sophronia brought only a small guard to accompany her, composed of those she trusted the least. Not that there was a particularly large margin between her most and least trustworthy subjects, but it paid to be cautious.<br><br>The trip itself was really quite pleasant and without much trouble. Perhaps it was due to the fact that they were driving through the empty desert, or that civilization was still mostly intact out here, or that they were well armed, or maybe just luck. Sophronia didn't pay it much mind. They did make good enough time that they were able to stop a few times along the way. Sophronia took those opportunities to collect information and supplies. Mostly tools or random materials they lacked back home. Her power to duplicate things was useful, but limited in that she needed at least one of whatever it was to start with. She thought of their foraging as increasing her pallet. <br><br>Even with multiple detours and their leisurely pace, it only took about 3 days to arrive at the monument. Just by chance, the bus pulled up right around the time everyone else was arriving, coming to a stop with the hiss of pneumatic breaks. Two men disembarked first, taking position on either side of the door. They were armed, but carried their weapons at rest. One held out a hand to assist Sophronia as she stepped out of the bus and into the desert sun. She was wearing a broad brimmed sun-hat, her long ears sticking up through carefully cut and hemmed holes in the top. Her golden hair spilled down over her back and shoulders, setting off both her caramel brown skin and a brilliantly white sundress that hugged her trim waist and heavy bosom before flaring out over her hips and ending just above her knees. Her eyes were hidden behind dark designer sunglasses, and she wore heeled sandals that laced up her thighs, roman style. <br><br>She smiled warmly at the others, though her expression remained somewhat reserved, as Alex began to speak. When it became obvious that they were going to be treated to a recorded message, she motioned at the men back towards the bus, gesturing vaguely. They seemed to understand, and moments later another man, unarmed, rushed out with a small camcorder to begin recording the message in a more accessible format.<br><br>Sophronia listened intently, her expression mostly unreadable, right up until the old man's image mentioned <em>'worthy persons'</em>, at which point she visibly winced. When the message finally ended, she waved dismissively at the man with the camera. He handed it to her and scurried back to the bus. She sighed as the others introduced themselves, seemingly more in response to Alex's message than anything they were doing.<br><br>When it was her turn, she smiled again. It still held the same warmth, but was tempered by a sense of resignation. <strong>"I am Lady... No... no to you I will just be Sophronia. We are equals I think. My entourage and I traveled here from Los Angeles. Things there are... not great, for the most part anyway. I am also curious about this 'Ancient Compact and Truce', but I must also ask, is there something <em>specific</em> that we must do, or are we to use our powers to preserve the world in a more general sense?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>11-07-2016, 19:40:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alex rubs the back of his neck, grunts softly.<br><br>"I ain't rightly sure of all the particulars, but the Ancient Compact basically means that this is serious business, so y'all are supposed ta be safe from interference from each other comin' too an' from this meet.&nbsp; Also, anything tries to block yer path is in violation, which means open season on them.&nbsp; There's a lot more, but that's about all of it I know.&nbsp; Old man takes this kinda serious, so I reckon there was a time some folks pushed the envelope a bit."<br><br>He shakes his head at some thought or other, his face twisting in wry amusement.<br><br>"Oh, an' if someone else in the Compact calls for help?&nbsp; Yer s'pposed ta help if ya can.&nbsp; Defensive alliance sorta thing.&nbsp; Callin' folks in when you don't really need it is, uhm, kinda bad form.&nbsp; Like this.&nbsp; He wouldn't invoke it if it weren't a big deal.&nbsp; There's&nbsp; penalties for cryin' wolf."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>12-07-2016, 07:17:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A huge grey wolf is sprawled on his back in the deepest shade to be found around here, tongue lolling out, paws stretched out. The animal dozes, half-open eyes nevertheless watchful of its environment. This is as far from a wolf's preferred climate as one can get, thankyouverymuch, its eyes said. Suffering this weather without very good reason just wouldn't happen. The latter is with the other noisy two-legs. Hopefully the business would be concluded soon...<br><br>Irina sits on the ground, cross-legged, almost discarding all decency. She seems somewhat under-equipped for the occasion, having only a simple yellow knee-length summer dress and a folder knife hanging by a silver chain from her neck. She doesn't seem perturbed by lack of footwear, nor the Sun hammering down onto her. On the contrary, she seems to flaunt her nonchalance by cleaning her toenails with the tip of her knife, and it's anyone's guess whether anything mentioned here actually made it to her consciousness.<br><br>At least, until she ventures to add to the budding conversation. Thoughtful of her thick Slavic accent, she forms the words carefully so everyone can understand her. The names of the other people here as she pronounces them sound like "Aleks", "Cheni", "Karlos" and "Sofroniya". <br><br>"My name is Irina. I am just another spare backup contingency. I am pleased to make your acquaintance." Hey, a little formality never hurt. It's like dogs sniffing under eachother's tails. This thought, and Nyarly's categorization of people in this small group, make her grin.&nbsp; "I'm from a moonlit little town in the middle of nowhere - so excuse my small-town backwater ways." the grin on her lips widens. Her eyeteeth seem a bit long. The glint in her eyes, downright bestial.<br><br>"What kind of chance do we have against city destroying monsters?" Pause. "Are those our own kind, or are we something entirely different? It's so hard to get any useful news these days. You guys are from big places, so you might know more. Are there others like us? Other, let's call them, <em>teams</em>, assembling on ley line crossings?" <br><br>Still sitting cross-legged, she feels the ground in front of her with her palm, and sniffs, as if trying to sense something. The dress she wears is two or three sizes too large for her athletic frame.<br><br>"Is there some other significance to this place, Alex? I don't imagine the most irritating boss in the universe has a stash of weapons and goodies hidden here...? Or at least some sort of meeting place, command centre or somesuch? Yes, it's a bit much to hope for, but the old guy seems like a fellow with forethought and an acute sense of sarcasm. Even if you called him the Peacemaker. For the record, I am all for enlightened self-interest and co-operation. My little family needs all the help, and this does look like a step in the right direction. Also... what the Hell is the Department of Public Works? Or are they the same organization?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>14-07-2016, 04:46:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia nodded in greeting as Irina joined them. <strong>"All good questions." </strong>She turned back to Alex. <strong>"I do hope that we will be able to review this 'compact' in full detail before too long. I worry about being bound by an agreement that I do not know the particulars of."</strong><br><br>She pulled out a small cloth and dabbed a bit of sweat from her brow. Two men exited the bus carrying a large cooler and brought it over to the group, leaving it on the ground. <strong>"You also didn't address my question. Is there something specific that we are needed for in the short term, or are we to simply do as we wish until such a need arises?"</strong> Sophronia opened the cooler and pulled out a bottle of water. <strong>"Help yourselves. There's a decent selection, though nothing fancy."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2016, 19:39:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yeah, well..."<br><br>Alex's voice died off for a moment, his eyes very specifically not moving in Sophronia's direction.&nbsp; He's also obviously trying very hard to not notice Irina in a way that all but screams that he's having typical straight male thoughts about both of them and doesn't want to be a jerk about it.<br><br>"I ain't addressing yer question because I don't have an answer.&nbsp; But I reckon it's a 'all of the above' sorta thing."<br><br>He closes his eyes, concentrates for a moment.<br><br>"Short version?&nbsp; Y'all're gods.&nbsp; Capitalize if ya wanna.&nbsp; Or not.&nbsp; Troubleshootin' is part of the job.&nbsp; So...yeah.&nbsp; Do as you will, an' then take care of any problems that happen to show up.&nbsp; And there will be problems, 'cause it's all come a bit loose 'round the foundations.&nbsp; In time, city-destroyin' monsters'll give y'all a wide berth.&nbsp; Or so I'm told."<br><br>He takes a deep breath.<br><br>"I got no idea what the Department of Works is, or where, but it's like the Loom of Fate was.&nbsp; Without it, stuff comes undone.&nbsp; So it's a big deal.&nbsp; And no, ain't got no idea of any headquarters.&nbsp; We could use one, maybe?&nbsp; As for others..."<br><br>For a moment, he looks like a younger man, a boy, shy and nervous.<br><br>"There're others.&nbsp; Maybe a dozen of y'all all told worldwide.&nbsp; Not everyone's comin' here, though.&nbsp; They're needed where they are.&nbsp; And not all that's empowered're like y'all.&nbsp; There's one who's pretty close. by"&nbsp; He gestures eastward.&nbsp; "Some asshole preacher over in Kansas got hisself too much heaven on the mind and a taste of real power.&nbsp; He ain't like y'all.&nbsp; He's somethin'...else.&nbsp; Somethin' bad.&nbsp; Ol' Greyface called him a parasite."<br><br>He recovers his composure a bit, finally looking directly at Irina and stooping to pat the ground.<br><br>"Oh, an' about this place?&nbsp; There's ley lines here.&nbsp; Could be a place of power, if anyone developed it.&nbsp; Right now, though, it's just a tourist trap."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>18-07-2016, 07:56:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina wasn't exactly helping Alex with his predicament. Since the summer dress she wore was a few sizes too large, the way she leaned forward made the fabric stand quite a ways from her body, giving him a generous view of her full breasts through the neckline. And, she looked straight into his eyes, a playful flicker on her lips, almost inviting the young man for a tumble.<br><br>Playful. A bare blade in her hand. Her nostrils flare slightly as she takes in the scents around her. <br><br>"Well, if there was a forest round here... I could use it. Like this... I'm afraid my family is not of the desert kind." She glanced over to her huge wolf companion suffering from the heat despite the shade he found. "Poor puppy." She glanced back at Alex, before the words even finished leaving her lips. Then she glanced at the others.<br><br>"So, gentlebeings. Shall we shoot some trouble and pay that Kansas person a visit? Or find something more immediate to do, like forming a spy network. Or make plans for this spot. Those ley line crossings sound important, don't they?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>20-07-2016, 04:53:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Hmm..."</strong> Sophronia thought on Irina's words for a moment, then knelt down and scooped up a handful of dirt, holding it out. <strong>"The forest might not be as far away as you think."</strong> She smiled, and a blade of grass sprouted from the dirt, growing green and healthy. <br><br><strong>"The fellow in Kansas does sound problematic. Especially if he is something other than... us."</strong> She placed the dirt, and the sprig of grass, back into the hole she had scooped out. <strong>"In fact, he sounds like exactly the sort of thing that we are supposed to be dealing with."</strong><br><br>She sighed and dusted off her hands. <strong>"Of course, my own talents are better suited to organizing and consolidating. But any time we spend building our own power base is time he will be able to spend doing likewise. Perhaps it would be best for us to strike now? While we are all equally weak."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>20-07-2016, 06:17:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"...Gods?"</strong>&nbsp; As someone who used to chat with the other altar boys about whether God was any more real than Santa Claus, Carlos plainly has no idea what to make of this news -- but then, it doesn't sound like the terminology is the important part, anyway.<br><br><strong>"Um, anyway.&nbsp; As much as I like building things, we might need to make this preacher a priority.&nbsp; I mean -- Alex, you said we're going to keep getting more powerful.&nbsp; Presumably the same goes for him.&nbsp; So the longer we wait to stop him, the more people get hurt, right?"</strong>&nbsp; He coughs, glancing down awkwardly at the official circle (and still keeping his eyes politely averted from Irina).&nbsp; <strong>"Besides, I may be good at building in general, but I'm pretty sure I don't know how to develop a ley line.&nbsp; I don't suppose there's an owner's manual?"</strong><br><br>It occurs to Carlos somewhat belatedly that none of them have questioned (at least not out loud) whether they're on board with this plan at all or not, nor do they have any real way to verify that Alex and his employer are on the up-and-up.&nbsp; But then, with the world already going to hell, it's not as if he can afford to argue with the only (non-televangelist) person claiming to have the answers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>21-07-2016, 20:31:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny listened intently as she grabbed her own water from the cooler and then emptied her snack bag on the table. Every time she went traveling, she always brought the snack bag. As she tended to augment her holding with whatever edible she ran across, the supply tended to increase rather than decrease over time. The table rumbled with a flood of cookies, peanuts, pretzels, chips, hard candies, and other such sundries. "Please, help yourselves." <br><br>As the others continued discussing, the cocktail waitress noted that there was a lot to take in here. But she managed to keep her cool, mostly, until Alex let out the word "Gods." Yes, she supposed it made sense in a way. Perhaps even more than the way she typified the arrangement as "Working for the City." She was almost taken as much aback by the lack of reaction by everyone except Carlos. Almost as if this were a joke in which the two of them were the only ones not in on the punchline.<br><br>For a while, she just kept silent as she took it all in. The temptation was there just to head back - to tend to her own neon garden and let the rest of the world fend for itself. Perhaps if one of the others decided to drop by Vegas, she'd swing a few comps their way - a nice meal, a free show, a room at a penthouse somewhere. An <em>Ancient Compact and Truce</em> package. Where did you put a comped god anyway? Probably Caesar's. Leave the rest of the world behind. It wouldn't be the first time that she figured that was what the City actually wanted. To this day, she wasn't quite sure if The Ring of Thorns was put there by the dark forces aligning against them to trap the people of Vegas <em>in</em> or rather a defense mechanism by the City to keep whatever it was on the horizon <em>out</em>. In the latter case, she was just another Ring then. A defense mechanism. But perhaps she wasn't. Apparently godhood didn't entail omniscience.<br><br>But if Jenny were to be honest with herself, she knew isolation wasn't the answer. If it was, she wouldn't be here. She knew it as surely as she felt each of the 450 miles between her and her beloved City. No, she was here because the City <em>wanted</em> her here with these people. Or gods. Whichever they really were. What was it Alex said? <em>We be of one blood, ye and I.</em> Of course, that meant the preacher in Kansas was as well - but when was family ever peaceful? There were a whole passel of people in Idaho that would just assume never see Jenny again, or at least see her humbled. And the words "City destroyin' monsters" had a particular resonance for her that it probably didn't for the others. And that clinched it.<br><br>Jennifer Keysworth worked for the City.<br><br>Her first words answered a question, or attempted to - an ironic situation since she felt that overall, she knew far less than the rest of the assembled company. "I don't think you make ley lines. I think they just happen to be where they are." Which would explain at least why she was the only one of their... kind... she guessed she'd call it that... to be beholden to a particular city that she knew so far. "But as for Kansas, well... four to one will always be four to one. But four to one <em>now</em> is going to be a lot less of a losing proposition for all the people who have the bad luck to be around that guy than four to one <em>later</em>. I think if we're going to do this Compact thing, that's something that should count for us. If for no other reason than it makes us something different than whatever it is outside us that obviously doesn't care about who it chews up on the way in."<br><br>Having said that, she sat back a little, glancing at each of the four others and trying to figure out what she could - as of yet to fairly little avail. "That being said, the question is how. As Carlos put it so well, this whole situation doesn't come with a guidebook. And I gotta admit that I could really use one right about now." She gave a sheepish smile, sincere, but at the same time definitely underscoring the cold, hard reality of their situation.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-07-2016, 05:50:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Reckon y'all're inclined ta go play Dorothy," Alex says, unable to keep a twinkle from his eye no matter how sober and serious his voice.&nbsp; "Reckon I'll tag along, show ya the way.&nbsp; Not that I'm from Kansas."<br><br>He straightens up slowly, stretches...another accidental show for the ladies results.&nbsp; Pretty sure he doesn't know it.&nbsp; If he did, he'd preen more and be self-conscious instead of almost ferally graceful about it.<br><br>"Can't do much about a guide book.&nbsp; Or the lack thereof.&nbsp; Asked the ol' man once about that, an' he said somethin' about the best books on the subject havin' a bad habit of drivin' the readers nuts.&nbsp; So we jus' make do."<br><br>He leaves the circle, heading toward his truck.&nbsp; One hand rubs the back of his neck, the other digs for his keys in one pocket of his jeans.<br><br>"Guess we better shake some dust.&nbsp; Anyone need a ride?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>25-07-2016, 01:46:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A subtle smile flashed across Sophronia's lips as Alex stretched. <strong>"It seems that we are in agreement then. We shall head to Kansas and deal with this 'preacher'. To be quite frank, I thought people like him were some of the greatest threats to the well being of this country when they were nothing more than charlatans. Now that they wield actual power... Well, I don't think the extra legitimacy is going to make things any better for the poor folk who fall under their sway."</strong><br><br>She took a piece of candy from Jenny's pile of snacks, nodding appreciatively in the other woman's direction. <strong>"Any of you without transport are also welcome to join me as well."</strong> Sophronia gestured towards the tour bus. <strong>"It will be a little crowded, but we can make room."</strong><br><br>While the others made their preparations to depart, Sophronia pulled out a cell phone and turned it on. By some miraculous stroke of luck*, it actually managed to get a strong signal just long enough for her to call Michael back in LA and let him know that her return would be delayed.<br><br><br>*1 effort committed for the day ;D
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>25-07-2016, 18:29:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina followed Alex. The too-big sundress clinging to her body in this or that place, while fluttering like a flag in the others. Yeah, she's in need of better wardrobe. Then again, she just could pose as one of the needy persons who come to see the miraculous televangelist.<br><br>"Since I don't have anything in the way of transportation, I'll take you up on that offer, Alex. I guess I'll be taking Toto along as well, as long as we're playing that kind of game." She chuckled. The wolf was suddenly next to her, and seemed bigger from close up, his shoulders the height of Irina's hips - clearly a monstrous variant of the common lupus. The heat reigning the Five Points area made things difficult for him, and one couldn't help but awww in compassion for the poor lupine His tongue lolling, eyes tired - he gratefully lapped the water Irina poured from one of the refreshment bottles and into her palm.<br><br><em>The things one does for love</em>, the wolf's intelligent eyes complained. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>26-07-2016, 18:11:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, I suppose there's no reason to waste gas. If you can wait until I return my rental to the airport, I can ride with you Sophronia. Besides, it's well over twelve hours on the road to Kansas, depending on where this guy is located. You'll probably want to switch drivers at some point." It may have been still better for the five of them to take one vehicle, but it wasn't hard to figure out that Irina had an ulterior motive in taking Alex up on his offer, and she wasn't about to get in the way of that in the name of convenience.<br><br>The transportation issue being largely taken care of, Jenny could now worry about the more pressing issue - namely, what was she - what were <em>they</em> going to do once they got to Kansas? It seemed that some sort of plan should be in order, but she had absolutely no idea as to what that plan should be.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>27-07-2016, 04:29:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Oh don't worry about your rental. I can take care of it."</strong> Sophronia waved dismissively. <strong>"And don't worry about driving. I have people for that."</strong><br><br>She glanced over at Carlos.<strong> "What about you Carlos, care to join us?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>27-07-2016, 06:07:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos shrugs.&nbsp; <strong>"If you're already crowded in there, I might as well drive mine,"</strong> he decides, gesturing back towards the car he arrived in.&nbsp; <strong>"I'd rather not ditch it just yet."</strong><br><br>It'd be easy enough to build another, of course, but he's really quite curious how long the makeshift car is going to last, and it's probably for the best not to leave something that weird lying around.&nbsp; More to the point...he's been stuck in overcrowded cars more than enough for one lifetime.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-07-2016, 05:28:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As it turns out, Alex drives 'point'...and soon you all realize that the land around you is moving a lot faster than it ought!&nbsp; He stays at a pretty solid and respectable fifty to fifty-five by your speedometers, but there's no way you're moving that slow!&nbsp; Not if you're pulling up to a slow stop in the parking lot of a somewhat seedy motel on the outskirts of Cortez, Colorado.&nbsp; Yours are the only cars here at the moment, save for a battered old jeep pulled up alongside the office.<br><br>Alex slides out of the cab, gives Irina a tight little smile, nods to her large lupine companion, and waits for the rest of you to join him before he says anything.<br><br>"Didn't think we wanted to just roll right on over the state line and get ourselves into trouble," he announces.&nbsp; "Plus this way we can do a little recon first.&nbsp; See what's on the airwaves.&nbsp; Check the papers for what little might be available.&nbsp; And..."<br><br>He manages to look a little embarrassed.<br><br>"I got business in town.&nbsp; Personal stuff.&nbsp; Thought it was gonna be Compton, but it's here."&nbsp; He gestures north-ish along the road.&nbsp; "Pizza place up that way.&nbsp; You can go further into town if you want, but you might want to be careful.&nbsp; This place feels..."<br><br>He doesn't say the word 'wrong', but he doesn't have to.&nbsp; You can feel it, too.&nbsp; There's something here.&nbsp; Something underneath.&nbsp; Instead he shrugs and turns toward the office.<br><br>"I'll just get our keys."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>28-07-2016, 08:30:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				This kind of place conjured tons of unpleasant memories - unpleasant enough for the wolf to feel them and growl at the buildings. Irina patted the monstrous animal and whispered a reassurance to him. It's all in the past, the tone of her voice said. There is no way something like that would happen again and again. This seemed to satisfy the wolf, and he returned to his usual good-natured self.<br><br>There's no way the scrawny boy should go into a possibly dangerous motel office alone. A seedy, <em>wrong </em>motel office. Okay, so the logic wears thin there - but the group is screwed without Alex, and on that thought alone Irina promoted herself to Alex' bodyguard. Not that she seemed like much of a threat, in the too-large yellow sundress, her bare feet making the softest of sounds as she walks half a pace behind him, a sweet smile on her lips and a twinkle in her eyes. Half of her attention on the surroundings, the other half on the backside of his pants. Nostrils flaring slightly, taking in the scents strewn around, filtering the&nbsp; unusual from the merely disgusting.<br><br>Oh, she gave the rest of the group a quick wave and grin as well. The wolf stayed with Alex' truck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>03-08-2016, 05:56:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos sighs as he climbs out of his car, looking around the place.&nbsp; <strong>"Well...okay, then.&nbsp; I have <em>got</em> to learn how to do that.&nbsp; Never have to put up with the TSA again."</strong>&nbsp; He chuckles, and tries not to visibly smirk at Irina's less-than-subtle behavior.<br><br><strong>"Well, you want to go check out the pizza joint while they're busy?"</strong> he asks the remaining ladies idly.&nbsp; <strong>"I'm not real hungry myself, but we might as well look around, and we probably need to order ahead for a group this size anyway,"</strong> he adds with a meaningful glance at Sophronia's tour bus.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>03-08-2016, 07:17:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Fascinating..."</strong> Sophronia murmured as she stepped down from the bus. She surveyed the motel grounds with a dubious look, then shrugged. <strong>"I suppose it will do."</strong><br><br>She smiled at Carlos' suggestion.<strong> "Pizza sounds great, as does taking a look around. Shall we?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>03-08-2016, 19:25:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"OK, Pizza." Jenny was still a little concerned at Alex's little errand considering how wrong this place felt, but with Irina at his side, she figured he'd do OK. And it seemed like he didn't want a crowd around for it anyway. Still... She held up her cell phone and called to Alex and Irina, "If anything happens... 8675309..." Sometimes having the most recognizable phone number in the world had its advantages. Turning back to Carlos and Sophronia, she added, "OK, let's find this place and order up lunch..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2016, 01:15:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Irina</strong><br><br>This prime example of small-town hospitality is called the White Eagle Inn and Family Lodge.&nbsp; It's a single storey line of what looks like about a dozen units and the office, which is arranged at one end of the line and juts out to give the whole an 'L' shape.&nbsp; Walking inside, you find that the office is hot, dismal, the air barely stirred by an anemic ceiling fan.&nbsp; The general impression is that there is no way this could ever be considered a four-star establishment.&nbsp; The middle-aged clerk behind the counter seems a donut short of a full box, or maybe one bad day away from going day trader with a full clip.&nbsp; He needs a shave.&nbsp; He needs to lose about a hundred pounds.&nbsp; He needs a clean shirt.&nbsp; His beady, glazed eyes take a walk all over you, seem to ignore Alex until Alex reaches the counter.<br><br>"Got a reservation," Alex says.&nbsp; "We're checking in."<br><br>This brings the man's attention to him, and for just a second you witness the shift on his face from annoyance to loathing and straight past hatred to abject bowel-emptying fear as he seems to recognize the young man.<br><br>"You!&nbsp; You're...you're with..."<br><br>"Oh!&nbsp; You remember my boss?&nbsp; That's great," Alex says dryly.&nbsp; "He's always very happy to hear that people remember him," is added in a tone that this is not at all the case.&nbsp; "So leave the keys and take a hike and we'll see you in time to check out tomorrow.&nbsp; Got it?"<br><br>The clerk is already scrambling around the counter, nodding jerkily.<br><br>"Keys are right there!&nbsp; Just don't let that old man do that thing to me again, please!"&nbsp; He trips, hits the floor heavily, stares up at Alex like a man trapped on a beach watching the biggest tsunami in history bearing down on him.&nbsp; Alex just steps carefully out of the man's way.<br><br>"No worry about that, I think."<br><br>"I'm sorry I stared at your lady friend!"&nbsp; The man looks at you.&nbsp; "I'm sorry!&nbsp; I didn't mean any disrespect!"<br><br><br><strong>Everybody Else</strong><br><br>You find the pizza and pasta joint about a mile up the road.&nbsp; It isn't much to look at, as if it does far more carryout and delivery than dine-in.&nbsp; The kitchen crew are bored and teenaged and surly, but do their best to act cheerful and enthusiastic when you come in.&nbsp; At the moment your party is the only custom they have, and you're someone one to gossip about afterwards.&nbsp; The air is oven-hot and carries the scents of garlic and oregano.<br><br>The kid at the counter, as Native American as they come, swallows nervously as he grins, showing braces.&nbsp; His nametag announces that he is called Doug.<br><br>"Welcome to Lotsa Pasta and Thatsa Pizza, folks!&nbsp; C'n I take your order?"<br><br>It isn't quite automatic to him.&nbsp; Delivery's off a bit.&nbsp; Maybe he's new?<br><br>(Sophronia, did you bring your entourage along?)<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>09-08-2016, 21:58:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia had brought two of her men with her to help carry the pizza. Unarmed of course. No need to excite the locals. She strutted up to the counter like she owned the place. Of course, to the mere mortals that worked here, that might as well have been true.<br><br>She leaned forward over the counter with a sultry smile, pressing her heavy breasts together and showing him a deep valley of cleavage that threatened to spill over the low neckline of her dress. <strong>"Hello Doug. My friends and I would like, ohh... A dozen large pizzas. Four pepperoni, two sausage, two supreme, two bell pepper and mushrooms, and two cheese. Extra cheese on all of them."</strong> She turned back towards the others with a mischievous smirk, <strong>"Will that do or do you have any requests?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>14-08-2016, 02:21:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No, I think that'll do," answered a slightly mystified Jenny. Sure there were five of them plus Sophronia's entourage, but it still seemed like a hefty order. Perhaps being a god made one extra hungry. <br><br>There was also the young waiter to consider. He only added to the whole <em>off</em>-ness of this place. The cocktail waitress decided that perhaps a bit of light probing was in order. "Um... have you worked here long?" The question was offhand, and a little hesitant. Jenny didn't wear her new status with the same degree of confidence that the others, especially Sophronia and Irina, seemed to wear theirs, almost like it was an ill-fitting dress left to her by a wealthy relative she never knew. Still, she had at least accepted the state of things as she were and did her best to work within them, or rather outside the confines that the developments seemed to have lifted away from her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>15-08-2016, 07:02:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"That should be enough to eat,"</strong> Carlos decides, although it does occur to him that he's not quite sure how many people are aboard the bus in all.&nbsp; Still, Sophronia presumably knows what she's doing.&nbsp; <strong>"We can figure out what folks want to drink when the food's ready."</strong><br><br>He can't exactly claim to be impressed by the place at first glance, but then, plenty of restaurants cook better than they look.&nbsp; Taking a deep breath to enjoy the aroma of cheap grease, he leans against the wall idly, casting his gaze out the window and back to the counter and kitchen.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-08-2016, 22:41:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Lotsa Pasta /Thatsa Pizza</strong><br><br>Doug blinks and starts writing down Sophronia's order.<br><br>"Okay, so, that's four pep with extra cheese, two sausage and extra cheese, two supreme with extra cheese, two bell pepper and mushroom with...yeah, extra cheese, and two extra cheese..."<br><br>He turns expectantly to Carlos and Jenny as if waiting for them to add something, then blushes at Jenny's question.<br><br>"Yeah, second week on the job.&nbsp; You folks want anything to go with that?&nbsp; Drinks?&nbsp; Salad?&nbsp; Those little red pepper flakes or parm?&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; Uh..."&nbsp; He looks around the restaurant.&nbsp; It's not quite big enough for the whole entourage plus Alex and Irina.&nbsp; "To go?"<br><br>There's a commotion from the back.&nbsp; A couple of people peer around the counter from the kitchen-side and retreat again.&nbsp; Quiet astonishment at the sudden rush seems to be today's theme.<br><br>"Ahh, this might take a bit.&nbsp; Is that okay?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>23-08-2016, 05:04:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Lotsa Pasta /Thatsa Pizza</strong><br><br><strong>"That is correct Doug."</strong> Sophronia flashed him a smile. <strong>"Hmm, how about four two-liter bottles of soda to go with it, and the pepper flakes and Parmesan as well. And yes, to go."</strong> She waved off the young man's concerns about time. <strong>"Of course, of course. That's perfectly fine."</strong><br><br>Sophronia waited for him to ring up the order then paid in credit. <strong>"So, Doug.&nbsp; Wild disasters are popping up all over the place, how are things around here?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>23-08-2016, 06:38:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny shrugged in answer to Doug's question. "Well, everyone's gotta be a beginner sometime. Nothing wrong with that. And... maybe add a salad or two. Just in case."<br><br>After that she was mostly quiet - for Sophronia's question was the one that was really on her mind.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>29-08-2016, 06:39:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Since the order sounds complete enough, Carlos merely shakes his head slightly.&nbsp; He does blink slightly at Sophronia's rather direct question -- but then, there really isn't a protocol for starting conversations about worldwide havoc, is there?<br><br>He does, however, quietly produce his phone and start Googling recent news in Cortez.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-09-2016, 21:42:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Lotsa Pasta /Thatsa Pizza</strong><br><br>Doug grins sheepishly.<br><br>"Oh, we get by.&nbsp; Little by little.&nbsp; Ain't like we haven't seen hard times before, being all the way out here.&nbsp; But since you mention it we did sort of have this earthquake thing a couple of weeks ago.&nbsp; Shook up the mine.&nbsp; Nobody got hurt, nothing fell down."&nbsp; He thinks for a moment.&nbsp; "Same day as that weird thing in Tokyo, now that I think about it.&nbsp; What are the odds?"<br><br>He laughs. There's a hint of nervousness in his voice.<br><br>"Nothing interesting ever happens in a sleepy little town like this."<br><br>(sweep cut to...)<br><br>It's a few hours later.&nbsp; You're fed and a bit rested.&nbsp; The sun is sinking down toward the horizon.&nbsp; You haven't seen either Alex or Irina since before lunch, but he left your room keys for you at the office along with a vague note about pursuing personal business around town.<br><br>Carlos, your Google search is part of what has led you here, up a winding dirt road to a site overlooking the actual mine on the outskirts of Cortez.&nbsp; It looks like every bad Hollywood cliche of an archaeological site, complete with assault-rifle toting guards walking the perimeter.&nbsp; Not fifty feet away, you can see a young man with black hair pulled back into a tight braid, denim shirt soaked through with sweat, arguing with one of the two militia types at the front gate.&nbsp; His battered jeep has US government plates, looks to be at least forty years old, and has a lot of gear in the back secured by bungie cords.<br><br>"...bloodsucking moron of a boss of yours that I can't guarantee the safety of the dig site if I'm not allowed to come in and have a look, for crying out loud!&nbsp; So no, I'm not going to renew his dig permit and I don't care&nbsp; how much money he flashes at me!&nbsp; He wants me to okay the site, I have to inspect it."<br><br>You can all feel that there's something down there, too.&nbsp; It's weird.&nbsp; Nothing you can put a finger on, but somehow you know that this place is <em>wrong</em>.<br><br>The guards seem to be mostly ignoring the guy.&nbsp; They aren't ignoring you, but so far they haven't taken action.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>05-09-2016, 22:47:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The clerk's reaction to Nyarly's memory drew a smile onto Irina's face. The old guy liked to play with the plebs in <em>that</em> way, eh? Then again, the guy id seem to deserve it. She felt fear radiate from the man (a disgusting scent of sweat, urine, the unpleasant sound of quickening heartbeat). Inwardly, she thought of how little it would take to make him wet his pants... but that would have been just cruelty, and needless at that. No, what she really wanted was a little alone time, for rest and horizontal recreation. <br><br>So she threaded her arm beneath Alex' and stopped noticing the clerk. Outside, curled up in the truck, the big wolf yawned mightily.<br><br><hr><br>How hard is it to break one of those hotel beds? Not too hard, apparently. Torn bed-sheets and various damages to the furniture are part of the reservation, right? A long shower is just what one needs to wrap it up and slowly milk the episode to conclusion, as well. Yum.<br><br><hr><br>Much later, a sated smile on her lips, her steps almost lazy, Irina walks up the dirt road to rejoin the rest of Team Awesome with a casual greeting. She's still barefoot, the too big sundress fluttering very slightly in the hot breeze. If questioned about Alex, her smile will widen slightly, and she'll mutter something non-committal about him having to rest a bit, because the day was so... strenuous. She stretches and grins immodestly after that.<br><br>Irina sniffs the air, trying to take in whatever other things that are out of place. The argument gets her attention, of course, as does the feeling of wrongness.<br><br>"We're not too late for the fun, it seems. So. Who has enough charisma to ask Mr. Inspector what this is about?" she whispers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>06-09-2016, 02:01:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia gave Irina a knowing look, then started walking towards the three arguing men. <strong>"Ill take care of this."</strong><br><br><strong>"That's enough of that gentlemen. He's with me."</strong> She said imperiously, drawing the attention of all three at once. <strong>"Them too."</strong> She gestured back towards the others.<br><br>The young man might have said something, but Sophronia cut him off with a snap of her fingers. <strong>"Go on, into the jeep. I don't intend to walk."</strong> She sat down in the passenger seat and waited for the others to join them. She looked at the guards over the tops of her sunglasses. <strong>"Now, unless you have some reason to keep me out of my own dig site, I'd appreciate it if you would step aside."</strong><br><br>OOC: Sophronia commits 1 effort to <strong>The Lines of Rule</strong> - "a group of NPCs who are lesser foes will instinctively obey you as if you were their superior or employer. If the strangeness of this is brought to their attention by circumstances or those unaffected, they get a Spirit saving throw."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>06-09-2016, 05:32:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While Sophronia was going through her act, Jenny was preparing as well. She pulled her hair back into a ponytail, fished a pair of glasses from her purse, dug up a clipboard from gods know where, and grabbed a jacket from someone and threw it over her T-Shirt. Suddenly she was just emanating professionalism. As she made her way down to the assembled group, she nodded at her cohort as one might to a superior and asked, "Are we ready to go in, Ma'am? We're starting to run out of daylight here." She seemed a bit smaller compared to before, especially next to her blonde counterpart, but she also gave an air of knowing exactly what she was doing, even as she truly had no idea. It came naturally to her, as if she just belonged there.<br><br>OOC: Spending one effort on A Familiar Face - Commit Effort to blend in with a populace or group. Assuming they’re not actively vigilant for intruders, no one will bother you unless you wish otherwise, and you will intuitively know how to act, speak, and conduct business so as to avoid drawing attention. This blending works even with entities who look nothing like humans.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>10-09-2016, 05:37:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos has no special ability to blend in here, but at least he isn't dressed like the mechanic he actually is today.&nbsp; He straightens up slightly, hands clasped behind his back, and does his best to follow Sophronia's lead and stay unobtrusive as he approaches the jeep with the others.<br><br>He's not actually sure they're going to get away with this, of course, and glances around cautiously to double-check for any sign of security cameras in the area.&nbsp; Just in case.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-09-2016, 19:41:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The guards shuffle and shift nervously, glancing at one another.<br><br>"Sorry, ma'am.&nbsp; They didn't tell us you were expected," one says to Sophronia.&nbsp; He gives the pony-tailed man another look, looks like he's about to say something, then shakes his head and backs out of the man's way.<br><br>The geologist just blinks as if unable to believe the sea change that just landed on him with both feet, but nods jerkily and gets into his jeep, rolling slowly forward as they open the gate to admit the lot of you.&nbsp; Driving carefully around the digging equipment, he stops a few moments later just outside the mine entrance.<br><br>"You would be Doctor Whitman from Miskatonic State College, I presume," he finally says, giving Sophronia another suspicious look.&nbsp; "Willard Reed, You Ess Gee Ess."&nbsp; He gives the rest of you a careful, guarded glance as well.&nbsp; "Your staff, Doctor Whitman?"<br><br>He tilts his head to one side like a curious dog.<br><br>"Funny.&nbsp; I would have thought you'd be more..."&nbsp; His mouth twists for a moment.&nbsp; "<em>Masculine</em>.&nbsp; Who are you, really?&nbsp; Not that I'm going to tattle or object.&nbsp; You got me past those Blackwater types."&nbsp; He grins conspiratorially.&nbsp; "Been trying to get in here for weeks.&nbsp; Owner's one of those small government types who seems to think that safety regulations are for other people.&nbsp; On top of that, there are questions about missing workforce afterwards.&nbsp; But they're just workers, so who cares?"<br><br>Oh, no bitter sarcasm there, nope.<br><br>"So let's go see what's going on, shall we?"<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Hey, Jenny...</div><div class="spoiler_body">Willard is lying about something.&nbsp; You're not sure what, exactly, so it's almost certainly a lie of omission, but you can almost taste the incomplete truth lingering in his words.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>11-09-2016, 04:26:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia looked at Willard over the rims of her sunglasses. <strong>"I am afraid you are mistaken as to my identity, though the specifics of who I am isn't important right now. Suffice to say that I am involved with the government and am very curious as to what's going on here. You may refer to me as Sophie."</strong> She pointed to the others as she introduced them. <strong>"This is Carlos, Jenny, and Irina. They are all singularly talented, and have a similar interest in the events here. Something that we have in common with you I believe."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>11-09-2016, 17:28:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina offered a pointy-toothed smile to the man during the introductions, and used the time to appraise him from close-up. Her nostrils flared slightly, then she turned to see what else there was to notice, and what someone else might miss. <br><br>Apart from the man-eating hole in the ground and the fact workers were killed in unsavory ways, probably by whatever they found. Just like summer camp in New England! She grinned and jumped down from the seat, then grabbed a random, handbag-size, scientifically appearing instrument from the heap Willard had secured on the jeep, and tinkered with it until it made a bleep. One has to look the part of a scientific ass-istant, right? <br><br>"Miskatonic sounds right, though, if we consider our employer." Her heavy Slavic accent mangled the words, as usual. "Do we expect more trouble? Or should I ask... What kind of trouble do we expect?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>11-09-2016, 18:22:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny had her own bit to add. And suddenly, she seemed less in the shadows than before. Yes, she was more than willing to let the others take the limelight, but suddenly, she was more assertive than the character she adopted (or even the one she considered to be her own) would have been. <br><br>"More to the point," the seemingly mild-mannered 'associate' threw at him, "what is it exactly that you're <strong>not </strong>telling us, Willard?" She looked directly at Reed, giving him the kind of stare that seemed to look right through the man.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-09-2016, 22:52:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Willard manages to avoid laughing.<br><br>"Yeah, lady, I <em>know</em> you aren't Doctor Whitman.&nbsp; You're about twenty years too young, way too female, and definitely not the right shade of brown to be Doctor Whitman.&nbsp; On the other hand, I've been trying to get in here for, like, way too long.&nbsp; They're hiding something, and I intend to find out what...so like I said I'm willing to play along and I'm not about to go telling anyone."<br><br>He leads the way, beckoning you to follow.&nbsp; This gives him a prime opportunity to pretend he doesn't notice Jenny's glare.<br><br>"See, thing is, that earthquake story?&nbsp; I'm not sure I believe it.&nbsp; This area's all wrong for that sort of jolt.&nbsp; And this place is kind of crazy to begin with.&nbsp; I mean, have you talked to any of the locals over the age of forty?&nbsp; Freaky.&nbsp; It's that new superchurch or whatever the hell it is.&nbsp; Most of the town goes there now, and the older folks are just...ahhh, forget it.&nbsp; I'm probably just wigging out."<br><br>For a dig site or mine in the middle of the workday, it's awfully quiet in here.&nbsp; Not a lot of workers.&nbsp; Most of the security types were probably back by the gate.&nbsp; But then you hear something <em>odd</em>.&nbsp; Sounds like chanting.&nbsp; A lot of voices chanting.&nbsp; The sound is coming up the long main shaft, just ahead of you now.&nbsp; Finally, Willard half-turns over one shoulder.<br><br>"What I'm not telling you is probably why Doctor Whitman asked me to come here and do this.&nbsp; I'm not sure you'd believe me about that part.&nbsp; I don't fully believe it, to be honest.&nbsp; But after that footage out of Tokyo..."<br><br>The chanting is joined by something else--an eerie piping howl.<br><br>"Ah.&nbsp; Just like Belize all over again."&nbsp; Willard does not sound particularly happy.&nbsp; "Anybody bring a sword or something?&nbsp; Whatever's making that noise is probably bulletproof."<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>13-09-2016, 06:51:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Mr. Reed,"</strong> Carlos says dryly, <strong>"I think you'd be surprised what we're willing to believe.&nbsp; I mean, I was right there in Central Park when the monsters started digging up out of the ground, and the place hasn't gotten any nicer since."</strong><br><br>His eyes do widen a bit at the strange howl, though.&nbsp; <strong>"And I'm almost afraid to ask, but what happened in Belize?"</strong>&nbsp; Carlos smirks, reaching out to nonchalantly pluck a chunk of stone from the wall -- and a second later, offers Willard a sharpened stone broadsword, hilt-first.&nbsp; <strong>"Does this one work for you?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-09-2016, 22:45:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Willard looks back at Carlos.&nbsp; He blinks at the sword, but takes it and gives it a gentle test swing once he's got it pointed away from everyone else.&nbsp; He knows how to use one, apparently.<br><br>"Belize was a really bad run.&nbsp; You ever read Lovecraft?&nbsp; Like that, only with jaguars and a couple of drug runners thrown in for good measure."&nbsp; He pauses.&nbsp; "I was still working for Doc at the time.&nbsp; He thought it was funny as fuck, too.&nbsp; Crazy-ass archaeologist that he is..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>18-09-2016, 19:58:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So pretty much standard rules," Jenny noted with a sigh. "Well whatever's there, it's just going to get nastier until we do something about it, so we may as well go ahead and do what we can." She really didn't have much of a weapon other than her handbag and whatever she was holding inside it, but that's why they were organized into a team - everyone would have their own complementary skills, and fighting was somewhere in there - she was sure of it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>19-09-2016, 01:20:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos cracks his knuckles audibly, glancing around at the others.&nbsp; <strong>"All right.&nbsp; Anyone else need a weapon while I'm at it?&nbsp; This is gonna get ugly fast."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>19-09-2016, 03:39:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"I can't say that this sort of thing is my forte..."</strong> Sophronia grimaced with distaste.<strong> "But it would be nice to have <em>something</em>. So yes please."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>19-09-2016, 08:31:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina advanced to the front of the troop, on instinct. It didn't seem as if the rest of Team Awesome paid too much attention on their surroundings, choosing instead to chit-chat. She felt the hairs on the back of her neck raise, the sensation advancing into a pleasant series of goosebumps. <br><br>"Immune to guns, you say?" She unclenched her hands, slowly. Her forearms and hands bigger than a moment ago, changed into something that belongs on a nightmarish wolf, long claws glistening. Her smile was all pointy teeth, eyes yellow as she winked at Willard. A second later, she was just a fair-skinned petite girl again. The grin remained on her lips, however.<br><br>(committing effort to activate Red in Tooth and Claw for the scene)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2016, 22:28:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Willard doesn't even blink.&nbsp; Instead, he gives Irina a tight little smile.<br><br>"Man, this is starting to feel just like that first field trip all over again!"<br><br>By now, you've reached the strangely unguarded elevators.&nbsp; He waits for you all to board before hitting the bottom-most switch.&nbsp; As it descends, he raises his voice so that you can hear him over the machinery.<br><br>"You've noted the lack of internal security?&nbsp; If I'm right and this is like Belize, then they don't really care about stopping intruders from getting in.&nbsp; Those guards outside would be there mostly to deter tourists, not stop a dedicated attempt.&nbsp; Real defenses are going to be down there."&nbsp; He runs a hand through his hair.&nbsp; "Anyway, this mine played out a few years ago.&nbsp; So imagine my surprise when someone buys it out and starts digging all over again.&nbsp; And then, the same day something really weird happens in Tokyo, there's an earthquake that supposedly shuts it down again?"<br><br>He laughs.&nbsp; It isn't a pleasant sound.<br><br>"Did a little detective work on my way out here.&nbsp; New owner's a member of the super-church in town.&nbsp; Call me cynical, but I bet someone with just enough paradise on the brain to be stupid got their paws on something with actual power...and borrowed the mine to try some ritual or other they got in a cheap knock-off of the <em>al-Azif</em>."&nbsp; He pauses.&nbsp; "And if I'm wrong about this, drinks are on me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>20-09-2016, 06:37:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos does stare for a moment, before shrugging; whatever Irina's doing isn't <em>really</em> any weirder than what he does, even if it's spookier.&nbsp; Reaching back to the wall, he offers Sophronia a basket-hilted cutlass as they arrive on the elevators.<br><br><strong>"Well, I don't know if you're right <em>specifically</em>, but I've been feeling like something was wrong underground pretty much since the moment we rolled into town."</strong>&nbsp; He frowns, now tapping the back of a heavy throwing axe idly against his opposite palm.&nbsp; <strong>"<em>Underground</em> is becoming kind of a running theme, at least on my end.&nbsp; So, what were the 'defenses' like in Belize?&nbsp; Anything in the way of, like, tactics or real organization?&nbsp; Or just lots of monsters?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>20-09-2016, 06:59:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yeah, well I can't do that neat trick," Jenny threw in as she glanced at Irina's change, "so unless slapping at this guy with my purse is an option, I think I'm gonna take Carlos up on his offer too." She nodded at the New Yorker before turning back to Willard.<br><br>"As for your friends at the church here, the guy who runs it has got quite the reputation upstairs, if you catch my drift. I'm sure this is one of Santa's Little Helpers getting ready to deliver an early Christmas present. As much as I hate to be a Grinch..." she shrugged. "But you offered to buy the drinks, so who am I to refuse, right?" She shrugged, trying to bring deadly seriousness together with levity, not entirely sure how successful she was going to be with that.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>21-09-2016, 05:50:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia took the sword with a nod of thanks and gave it a few test swings. <strong>"This will do quite nicely."</strong><br><br>She listened to Willard with interest. <strong>"I am very curious to meet the leader of this 'superchurch'. From what I have heard, I don't think I will like him very much."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>21-09-2016, 06:32:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nodding in return, Carlos hands Jenny a cavalry sabre.&nbsp; <strong>"Anyone need...well, anything else?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>23-09-2016, 07:04:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny took the weapon with a cheery, "Thanks," she noted to Carlos as she carefully handled it. It wasn't every day that you ran around with a sword. "And no," she added to Sophronia. "He doesn't really seem like the kind of guy we'd want to hang around. Though..." she added thoughtfully, "obviously he's got some cache of charisma he's been tapping somewhere if he's getting all these followers. We may want to steel ourselves against a horse-sized dose of snake oil..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>25-09-2016, 22:44:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"In this sort of thing," Willard notes dryly, "security is probably lots of monsters.&nbsp; But you knew that, right?"<br><br>The elevator comes to a jerking stop at the floor of a large, rough-hewn chamber carved out of the living rock.&nbsp; It looks like a pretty standard industrial mine, complete with the shadowy, boxy forms of equipment lying just at the edges of the circle of light cast by the lamps next to the elevator.&nbsp; Your new geologist friend sways for a moment as if he's suddenly unsteady on his feet, puts out a hand to prop himself up against the elevator door.<br><br>"Oh, damn...does anyone else feel that?"<br><br>'That' would be hard to describe.&nbsp; He may suddenly be sensing what you already feel--the innate wrongness of this place.&nbsp; And if it's strong enough for a mortal to pick up on it...that can't be good.<br><br>"I'm okay," he adds, straightening up.&nbsp; By the tone of his voice, he isn't.&nbsp; But it's a very macho thing to do, so he's fronting.&nbsp; "Guess now we go and find the ritual or whatever it is before Nyarlathotep or Azathoth or something comes to say hello."<br><br>After a few moments of searching, you find three tunnels all heading in the same general, slightly downward direction.&nbsp; Flickering orange or reddish light in the distance and the low rumbling of some chant or other is more than enough cause to determine that 'yonder lies peril'.&nbsp; But before you can collectively head that way, a number of shadowy forms rise up out of the floor to bar your way.<br><br>"Oh.&nbsp; Great."&nbsp; Willard sounds almost bored.&nbsp; "Well, I think we just found what happened to the workers who died in that quake."<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Battle!</div><div class="spoiler_body">These particular mooks are AC 7.&nbsp; There are a lot of them--it's a Large mob--but they're fairly weak.&nbsp; 24HD total and they make 1 attack on each of you every round with a +1 bonus.&nbsp; Remember that your Fray Die always goes off.&nbsp; Go to town!</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>26-09-2016, 01:52:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(At 2016-09-25 18:24:20, Irina (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95133)<br>At 2016-09-25 18:24:01, Irina (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d10a2 Result: 9 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95132)<br>At 2016-09-25 18:22:34, Irina (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d20a3 Result: 12 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95131)<br>If I read that right, that's 3 damage to the mob.)<br><br>Irina gives off a swift sneeze. All the dust down here... and the air, so dry. At least it keeps the stench down. And the feeling of wrongness, as well. It's at least as wrong as a barefooted girl with fangs and taloned hands, no?<br><br>"Nah, don't diss old Nyalry. At least his henchman is cool, and if you only saw the old guy in his Hugh Hefner robes..." She winks at the man, then lunges at the nearest few former mine workers. "I guess you can't be saved, can you?" Her claws flash in the austere light, slicing at the closest few "guards".
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>26-09-2016, 07:02:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Well, I kinda figured.&nbsp; But I'm not really used to being the <em>intruder</em>, as such, so I wondered if the bad guys would get more creative on their own turf or something."</strong><br><br>Carlos blinks at the sight of the rising shadows.<br><br><strong>"Yeah, I guess not.&nbsp; I suppose we probably don't want to touch the shadow guys?"</strong>&nbsp; Deciding not to wait for a tactical discussion, he winds up and hurls his axe, launching spinning death into the shadowy mob with tremendous force.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">At 2016-09-25 23:48:38, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a5 Result: 23 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95145)<br>At 2016-09-25 23:49:12, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 10 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95146)<br>At 2016-09-25 23:49:25, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95147)<br><br>Looks to be 4 damage from Carlos's attack, and possibly 1 more from the Fray die?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>27-09-2016, 02:24:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Got no idea. I haven't been doing this very long. Though my first thoughts on the subject run along the lines of a very definite no." It was probably not the most reassuring thing Jenny had ever said, but at least it had the virtue of being true. And being careful was never awful advice. She slashed ahead against the henchman, suddenly glad for the cavalry sword. Having someone around who could pop these things up turned out to be very useful. <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header"> combat</div><div class="spoiler_body">95205&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-09-26 19:19:39&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-09-26 19:19:39, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95205)<br>95204&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-09-26 19:18:58&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-09-26 19:18:58, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8a1 Result: 3 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95204)<br>95203&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-09-26 19:17:24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-09-26 19:17:24, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 24 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95203)<br><br>So I think that's 1 damage for the regular roll and another 2 on the fray die. You're supposed to add the enemy's AC to your attack roll, right?<br><br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>27-09-2016, 05:52:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia stepped forward, the cutlass held out in front of her in an approximation of a fencers pose. One of the shadows... zombies, whatever they were, lunged forward out of the darkness. She stepped back, swinging the sword at it and only managing to drive it back with wild slashes. However, as it retreated, it tripped and landed head first on a rock, cracking open it's skull with a crunch of bone. <strong>"Hm."</strong> Sophronia looked askance at her blade as dark fluid pooled beneath her fallen foe.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dice</div><div class="spoiler_body">Missed with main attack, rolled a 4 on fray die for 1 damage<br>At 2016-09-26 22:48:45, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=95212)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2016, 07:15:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Pogrom's Progress</div><div class="spoiler_body">Mob status 24 minus 12 is...well, 12.&nbsp; Good shootin', y'all!&nbsp; And yes, you add the enemy's AC to your To Hit roll.<br>Mob Attack!<br>Carlos +1 17+1=18&nbsp; Miss<br>Irina&nbsp; 5+2 = 7 Miss<br>Soph 13+9= 22 Hit&nbsp; Damage roll is 2...1 hit point damage<br>Jennifer 6+9 = 15 Miss<br>Being taken to half their HD in one round is certainly grounds for a Morale check which 4+4=<span class="bbc_u">8</span> fails.</div></div><br>The next few moments are hectic, if not frantic, for all of you: the shadowy, earthen forms of the faceless humanoids make a fair attempt at playing zombie horde to your band of siblings, but they quickly learn to avoid Carlos.&nbsp; Almost as quickly as Willard comes to the conclusion that being behind the Hispanic wrench-master from the Big Apple is a whole lot safer than standing around and waiting to get hit!&nbsp; Yet almost as fast as the flurry begins, the onslaught lets up.&nbsp; Against mere mortals, this horde of things would have been a lethal force with which to reckon. Against you?<br><br>They leave maybe half their number behind when they retreat deeper into the mine, gibbering and howling in their distress.&nbsp; Of the five of you, only Soph has taken any damage--a glancing blow has left her bruised and sore, but otherwise unharmed.<br><br>Willard lets out a ragged breath.<br><br>"Remind me never to piss you guys off. Where'd you learn to fight like that?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>29-09-2016, 13:03:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina shakes the remains of the corpses from her very human, dainty fingers. The smile she gives Willard is the best, most innocent one she can manage.<br><br>"Oh, that was just a warm-up. Actual fighting should be much worse, no?" <br><br>She pads left and right, barefoot over the remains of the zombies, peering into the passages ahead. Her eyes alight with a yellowish sheen.<br><br>"We could go back and run away, but I doubt anyone would be for that... So, whick tunnel do we pick?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>30-09-2016, 03:30:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Ow! It punched me right in the boob!"</strong> Sophronia frowned angrily as she rubbed awkwardly at her breast. <strong>"I certainly don't intend to retreat. Whatever's going on here is clearly no sort of good. Now, does anyone have any input on where to go? If not, I can likely point us in the right direction, but I feel as though I'll be a bit spent after if I do."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>30-09-2016, 06:07:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Well...Central Park, mostly."</strong>&nbsp; Carlos shrugs, looking vaguely sheepish as he pulls another axe from the wall.&nbsp; <strong>"I mean, not that I <em>never</em> got into fights as a kid, but I really wasn't the type until the monsters started popping up.&nbsp; Turns out I'm a lot stronger now."</strong><br><br><strong>"And if you think you can figure the right tunnel...maybe we'd better go for it.&nbsp; If their ritual or whatever is gonna do something big, we need to get there soonest.&nbsp; This place is fucked up enough <em>already</em>."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>01-10-2016, 18:03:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny was still preoccupied as she watched the mob slink away, their numbers halved. In Vegas, even before the troubles, she had been many things. Badass was not among them. Apparently, now she was, though certainly there were still badasses far scarier than her. <br><br>Being a godling was definitely still going to take some getting used to.<br><br>Figuring out where to go, however, that was something that Jenny could handle. Countless hours exploring the nooks and crannies of Sin City - the world of Vegas beyond the strip - had paid off in spades. The feeling of the right way kind of just <em>came</em> to her now. "I think..." she mused looking at each option, "...that one." She pointed to the one on the right. But didn't head forward quite yet. Instead, she made her way towards Sophronia. "You gonna be all right?" The question was tinged with concern. Apparently, she had already begun feeling some serious connection to the motley band with which she ahd been attached by fate.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Using Know the Path</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2016, 21:58:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And here I thought ol' Tall and Spooky was a tough boss."&nbsp; Willard swallows hard.&nbsp; "Guess I better 'fess up on one thing."&nbsp; He digs under his shirt, pulls out a curious emblem (https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9vnPZGf1Iuk/V0CJgTKgNcI/AAAAAAAAEpg/zYqR2n_oPXYUVWTnV45-c2OBEcViSPxSgCLcB/s1600/vinilos-almeria-simbolo-indalo-7497.png), holds it up by the chain and lets it dangle where you can all see it.&nbsp; "Since it probably won't hurt at all to let you know, I mean.&nbsp; I'm a member of this, ah, group of interested scholars.&nbsp; We keep an eye on stuff like this.&nbsp; Sometimes we can even do something about it.&nbsp; Like here and now.&nbsp; So, oath of secrecy aside, it's nice to meet backup."<br><br>'He glances at Irina.<br><br>"I thought there were five of you.&nbsp; Native American guy.&nbsp; Did he get lost or something?"<br><br>Jenny, against all expectation, the path you need to take is not the lit tunnel with the retreating, gibbering crowds.&nbsp; You're absolutely certain that the passage immediately to the left is the better route.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>03-10-2016, 05:03:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"I'm fine. Thank you for the concern."</strong> Sophronia smiled at Jenny, then leaned closer to whisper conspiratorially. <strong>"And thank you for finding the right tunnel! <span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">I was just going to flip a coin.</span>" </strong><br><br>She looked at Willard's pendant with interest but no recognition. <strong>"Interesting. I suppose it's good to know that if there was a strange world of magic and horror lurking in the shadows all this time, that at least someone was keeping an eye on it. Though I would recommend your organization seriously re-think their role in the world now that said magic and horror has decided to stop lurking."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>03-10-2016, 07:05:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos frowns, raising an eyebrow.&nbsp; <strong>"And how long have you -- or your people -- been watching us, exactly?"</strong>&nbsp; Willard knowing the full roster of a group that came together in another state less than twenty-four hours ago raises more than a few concerns, after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>04-10-2016, 20:22:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Uh... the indian guy?" She blushes a little bit and grins, eyes going a bit dreamy."He needed a little rest. I guess... erm... well, he'll catch up with us in no time if there's need. So. Say, that group of interested scholars, you wouldn't be particularly interested in extradimensional threats and stuff?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>06-10-2016, 00:39:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No problem," Jenny answered, "We all gotta do our part, right Soph?" The gratitude had actually gotten her a little flustered, which was odd, seeing as she should have gotten used to gratitude from all sorts of people right now - even before The Ring of Thorns, she was the person to go to if you wanted to get things done. <br><br>But there wasn't a whole lot of time to explore that right now. Instead, her ears perked up as she realized, along with the others, how well informed their escort into this maze was about them. "Yes - it does seem kind of odd. We'll definitely have to talk more about this..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-10-2016, 23:12:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Your new associate has the grace to seem a little embarrassed.<br><br>"I just saw you guys over at the Lodge on my way into town.&nbsp; And I think I've met the guy a time or two before.&nbsp; We don't have the resources to just, y'know, spy on people, even before all this happened."&nbsp; His expression falls.&nbsp; "We definitely don't have the people for it now.&nbsp; Too much to keep an eye on, too few of us to do it."<br><br>He rallies, a tight little half smile emerging once more.<br><br>"Yeah, we didn't exactly see Tokyo coming.&nbsp; And then everything else on top of that.&nbsp; Last I heard, most of my old team was caught up in something in Egypt, and I ended up here.&nbsp; So. Shall we go see what's in the basement?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>13-10-2016, 04:37:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Yes, lets."</strong> Sophronia took a moment to fluff her golden hair straight as she stepped aside to allow Jenny to lead the way into the tunnel. She knew the way after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>15-10-2016, 03:42:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"With that happy man charm, you'd think your group would have more... hmm... luck?" <br><br>She sticks her tongue out at the group's new ally. Waiting for the others to finally get moving, she paces around, letting claws slip out and back into her fingertips. A soft, fleshy, unehalthy sound accompanies this.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>15-10-2016, 05:51:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos eyes the other man suspiciously,&nbsp; but decides to let it go for now.&nbsp; <strong>"Yeah, let's go.&nbsp; No time to waste."</strong><br><br>He moves to take point alongside Jenny as the group proceeds down the tunnel, weapon at the ready.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>17-10-2016, 02:02:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				bJenny led the way, noting that the others were following close enough that she should at least expect to be avenged should she be rent to bits. And she appreciated the trust they were putting in her, But the big question here was not Quo Vadis anymore (she pretty much trusted that she was Vadising in the right direction so she'd get to Quo soon enough) but what would they find once they got there. She tried to keep as sharp as the others, keeping one hand on that cavalry sword of hers, but she gave the occasional nervous glance around, just to make sure the shadows didn't jump at her or anything like that.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-10-2016, 06:10:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Following the less attractive but more efficient path, you find yourselves dropping some ways over a long spiraling route until you emerge in a much deeper part of the mine...and Willard's quiet "fuck me" sums it up nicely.<br><br>You don't know if this is what caused the initial problem around here, but any big swirly gate-like manifestation is probably a Very Bad Thing.&nbsp; The curiously Greco-Roman ruin half-buried in the rock wall of this chamber is a curiosity for later study, perhaps, because in front of both the temple and the big swirly Hole In Space, you see three things.<br><br>One, a whole lotta those earthy minion thingies...the former miners, among other folks.<br><br>Second, a massive humanoid with a spectacular rack of antlers sprouting from its head.&nbsp; Looks a lot like part of the mountain came alive and has decided to walk around...<br><br>Third, there's someone bound on the altar in front of the Big Bad Beast.&nbsp; Probably the sacrifice <em>de jour</em>.&nbsp; Time for a bit of heroics, yah?<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header"> Stat Block</div><div class="spoiler_body">The goons are a Large Mob of AC 7 critters with 24 HD, same as the last batch.&nbsp; Their big brother, however, is a Worthy Foe and won't take any damage from your Fray Dice.&nbsp; He's AC 3, has 20 HD, and deals his damage <em>as rolled</em>.&nbsp; Good luck...</div></div>&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>21-10-2016, 04:32:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos nearly freezes up as he enters the chamber, which makes the new and improved Central Park look almost tame.&nbsp; Nearly.<br><br><em>After all,</em> he reasons to himself in the split second it takes to begin moving forward again, <em>there's no use in running away when the rest of the world's almost as fucked.</em><br><br>He leads with his weapon, hurling the axe forward toward the giant antler-beast -- although it sadly flies wide, crashing into one of the minions instead -- before breaking into a run towards the altar.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Attack: At 2016-10-20 21:19:26, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a8 Result: 14 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96000) (miss)<br>Fray: At 2016-10-20 21:20:33, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 2 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96001) (1 damage to goons)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>22-10-2016, 19:06:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Yes. Willard's "fuck me" summed up the situation quite nicely indeed. What she was facing was precisely the kind of thing that The Ring of Thorns may have been deployed to keep out in the first place. (Of course, that was assuming that The Ring was defensive in nature, rather than one big giant trap.) And backward was definitely a tempting option. However, seeing as the others (or Carlos at least) were intent on pressing forwards, leaving them to fend for themselves seemed like a particularly selfish thing to do. So, forward it was.<br><br>Cutting through a swathe of minions, she reached the horned god-monster and took her best swing. It connected with a resounding clank, and then just stopped there, as if the guy was made out of stainless steel. leaving Jenny to stare in horrified astonishment at exactly how poorly this whole thing was turning out.<br><br>Fuck me indeed...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">96034&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-10-22 11:35:09&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-10-22 11:35:09, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96034) 2 HD of Mooks<br>96033&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-10-22 11:34:30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-10-22 11:34:30, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a5 Result: 13 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96033) Missed the Big BAd</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>25-10-2016, 04:08:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Well, that <em>is</em> certainly cause for concern."</strong> Sophronia muttered at the sight of the creature. She gave her sword a brief, forlorn look before running after Carlos towards the altar, swiping the blade at one of the rock-zombies managing to open a deep, and apparently fatal gash in it's torso. Another tripped over it's fallen fellow as it lunged after her, smashing it's head on the rocky ground.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dem dice</div><div class="spoiler_body">2 damage total to the minions<br>Fray At 2016-10-24 20:56:24, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 2 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96217)<br>Damage At 2016-10-24 20:55:16, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8a1 Result: 3 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96216)<br>Attack At 2016-10-24 20:54:54, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 21 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96215)<br>Luck Power roll to store for later At 2016-10-24 21:00:12, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20 Result: 10 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96218)<br>I don't know what the big guy's attack bonus is, but if rolling a 10 would cause it to miss someone it would otherwise hit, I replace it's attack roll with a 10.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>25-10-2016, 13:37:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina's dress fluttered around her as she sped right at the antlered thing, much faster than should be possible. Who needs caution anyways, eh? Passing through the rank and file she let her taloned hands swish this and that way without really paying attention to the zombies; then she jumped, touched off a goon's head, and over the antlered boss-thing. She tried to rake him as she flies past - avoiding a counter would be nice as well, and she'll call upon her supernatural blood if needed.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">fray die: At 2016-10-25 06:28:00, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96243) <br>damage die:At 2016-10-25 06:28:20, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d10a2 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96244) <br>attack, I believe it's a hitAt 2016-10-25 06:27:04, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d20a3 Result: 17 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96242) <br>Does the big guy count as natural or magical beast? In that case he's AC9 for me. :D</div></div> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>31-10-2016, 04:54:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Progress Bars</div><div class="spoiler_body">Goons AC 7 19/24<br>Big Worthy (Magical) AC 3, has 17/20 HD<br>Autohits Carlos for 7 points...target changes next attack.<br>Mob vs. Sophie...17 (miss)<br>Mob vs. Irina...9 (miss)<br>Mob vs. Jennifer...20.&nbsp; Roll override by Sophronia's Luck becomes a 19...(miss)<br>Mob vs Willard...29.&nbsp; Damage is 2HD.&nbsp; Alas poor Willy, we hardly knew ye...</div></div><br><strong>Carlos</strong>,&nbsp; the mighty monstrosity delivers a nasty backhand that throws you the length of the cavern and causes you to impact the far wall with a bone-jarring thump!&nbsp; That...fucking...<em>hurt</em>! The good news is that you have his entire attention during your flight, as if it wants to make sure it sees you fall and stay down.<br><br><strong>Irina</strong>, your claws leave deep gashes in the Ogre's skull as you pass nimbly overhead and land behind it.&nbsp; Regrettably, it does not appear to bleed.&nbsp; Up close, it reeks of sodden earth, damp with foul fluids best left unnamed.&nbsp; The sense of wrongness you felt earlier spikes strongly enough to make your stomach lurch.<br><br><strong>Soph</strong>, you have made it to the side of the altar, leaving sword-cloven minions and loosely flapping strings of Fate in your wake as you twist the fortunes of all around you.&nbsp; A moment later and you <em>know</em> that you have just saved one of your compatriots from injury...sadly not poor Carlos, for something about the beastie is awfully hard to pin down.&nbsp; Maybe it's because it's like you?&nbsp; Or perhaps there is something else at work.<br><br>In the meantime, the woman bound on the altar is not the blushing virgin you might expect--she's older, maybe mid-forties, definitely First Nations, and what's left of her clothing looks like a biker jacket and army fatigues.&nbsp; A handsome woman, if a bit careworn.&nbsp; Mercifully she is not currently awake.<br><br><strong>Jenny</strong>, you have about two seconds to realize that you are well and truly fucked without lube when two things happen. First, the massive monstrosity seems to ignore you completely.&nbsp; That rocky tree-trunk sized arm whizzes just past your head to connect with Carlos and send him flying.&nbsp; This just leaves the field open for the minions who close on you and you know this is gonna really suck.&nbsp; And yet...<br><br>And yet.<br><br>You do not know how.&nbsp; You do not know why.&nbsp; But even though there is no way these crude earthen dummies could possibly miss, could in no way end up entangled with each other at the critical moment, that is what occurs.<br><br>You aren't quite sure what Willard is up to, but he's ducking and dodging the Mob on his way to that gate like a running back on speed!&nbsp; He's fast.&nbsp; He's greased lightning.&nbsp; He's gonna make it!&nbsp; Only he doesn't.&nbsp; One of the minions body checks him and you hear him shriek as his arm is grabbed and wrenched, and then he disappears from view under a wave of the faceless ones.&nbsp; If there is any mercy in this, his screams do not last very long.&nbsp; Not long at all.<br><br><em>Round Two, go!</em><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>01-11-2016, 01:24:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos cries out (in a totally manly way of course) as he flies, crashing flat against the wall with an impact that whites out his vision for an instant.&nbsp; Apparently he's made of sterner stuff than even he realized, though, because a few seconds later he peels himself -- and another axe -- out of the new crater in the wall, fury in his eyes.<br><br>Shouting something inarticulate, he hurls the axe up at the monster again before charging forward, backhanding one of the obnoxious minions without looking as he dives back into the fray.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Attack: At 2016-10-31 18:12:44, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a8 Result: 28 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96538) (hit; shame a natural 20 doesn't do anything special)<br>Damage: At 2016-10-31 18:13:22, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 5 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96539) (1 damage to the big guy)<br>Fray: At 2016-10-31 18:11:41, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96537) (1 damage to minions)<br><br>Carlos's HP: 5/12</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>01-11-2016, 06:02:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Carlos!"</strong> Sopronia's normally cool exterior cracked as the monster sent Carlos flying across the room. She's visibly relieved when he hurtles back into the fray. Emboldened, Sophronia leaps up on the altar, kicking one shambler's head clean off and hacking her sword into another. With a shout, she flings her sword at the ogre, but it flies wide, shattering against the cavern wall.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rools</div><div class="spoiler_body">2 damage to minons At 2016-10-31 22:56:34, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96569)<br>Whiff on the ogre (rolled a 6)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>02-11-2016, 06:40:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny's eyes widened as by some miracle she escaped certain doom at the hands of the minions. She guessed it had something to do with the company she was keeping now. However, this wonder and triumph was short lived as she saw Carlos flung across the room and Willard meet his grizzly fate. "You think you're getting away with that, you got another thing coming!" Kicking her way through another two minions, she pulled back the sword with all her might and swung...<br><br>Right through the air. That thing, whatever it was, had no problems dealing with her, sadly enough.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">96632&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-11-01 21:54:44&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-11-01 21:54:44, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8a5 Result: 12 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96632) Actually a 7 2d of Mooks for the fray dice)<br>96631&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-11-01 21:54:15&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-11-01 21:54:15, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a5 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96631) Big Ol automatic Failure</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>21-11-2016, 02:05:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina, despite feeling quite nauseated from the proximity of the huge thing, found her claws quite effective against its magical hide. As if she was getting help from somewhere... She dashed in from the other side, casually swatting a few of the zombies away, then slashed with her claws yet again, scoring a couple of deep gashes against the towering thing, and again speeding past it&nbsp; to skid over the uneven ground and the again-dead.<br><br>"Well, this sucks. Don't we have any heavier artillery? Or smarter ideas?"<br><br>At 2016-11-09 23:50:07, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d20 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96848) hit.<br>At 2016-11-20 18:58:56, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d10a2 Result: 9 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97166) damage.<br>At 2016-11-09 23:49:49, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d8 Result: 5 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=96847) Fray
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-11-2016, 18:39:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Progress bars!</div><div class="spoiler_body">Goons AC 7 13/24<br>Big Worthy (Magical) AC 3, has 12/20 HD<br>The Ogre swipes at Irina and does 3 points of damage with a glancing blow.<br>Mob vs Carlos...miss.<br>Mob vs Jenny...hit for 1 point<br>Mob vs Soph...hit for 1 point</div></div><br><strong>Carlos</strong>, you have no problem getting back up and back into the fight, even as the many faceless mud-born minions seek to swarm you.&nbsp; You're just too fast for them, flowing through their ranks like a Jeet Kun Do master dodging a clumsy amateur roller derby team.<br><br><strong>Irina</strong>, you think you got its attention with your blow.&nbsp; No, you know you did, because it tries to stomp and grind you into the living rock!&nbsp; Lucky for you, it isn't quite as fast, and you manage to get out of the way without too much in the way of pain.&nbsp; It bleeds, and what it bleeds smells even worse than the outside.&nbsp; Possibly toxic fluid of some sort.&nbsp; As if pollution elementals were a possibility...<br><br><strong>Jenny</strong>, you're getting pressed pretty hard.&nbsp; These guys are grabbier than a roomful of drunken Shriners!&nbsp; You're still mostly okay, but this is getting ridiculous.<br><br><strong>Soph</strong>, the minions fall faster than their master.&nbsp; It's harder to find a weak spot on this thing than you'd like.&nbsp; Behind you, the woman on the altar starts cussing a blue streak...<br><br>"Coyote fuck it, boy, I told you to stay away from me!"<br><br>"Sorry, Mom.&nbsp; Can't hear you when I'm rescuing people," comes the answer.&nbsp; It's Alex!&nbsp; Where the fuck has he been?&nbsp; And why is he currently dressed like some crazy ancient Egyptian, complete with a weird curvy sword?<br><br>And that big swirly hole in space?&nbsp; It's flickering...making a nasty popping noise every time it vanishes and again when it returns.<br><br>"Ny arr ruut ho tep," Alex adds, sounding amused.&nbsp; "And here I thought it was his <em>name</em>."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>22-11-2016, 20:23:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos flinches as the monster stomps at Irina.&nbsp; It would probably be sexist to assume the ladies aren't as tough as he is, but considering how much <em>his</em> ribs are hurting right now, it's fair to assume they need to end this before they all die.<br><br>Taking a deep breath, he reaches down (ducking under a muddy swipe) and pulls with all his might, and a truly <em>massive</em> axe comes free of the earth below.&nbsp; Someone human-sized really shouldn't be able to swing eight feet of stony death around, but apparently no one bothered telling Carlos that.&nbsp; He never even notices the two minions bisected by his backswing, as he winds up and slams the axe into the giant monster at full force.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls and Rules</div><div class="spoiler_body">Committing both Effort for a miracle of Loosening God's Teeth.<br>Attack: At 2016-11-22 13:05:48, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a8 Result: 13 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97271) (miss unless someone fixes it)<br>Attack reroll via Sophronia's Spin Fortune: At 2016-11-23 00:20:18, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a8 Result: 25 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97297) (hit!)<br>Damage: At 2016-11-22 13:06:24, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 16 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97272) (<del>4 damage if the attack misses</del>, 16 damage if it hits)<br>Fray: At 2016-11-22 13:06:56, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97273) (2 damage to minions)<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>23-11-2016, 18:31:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jennifer watched in shock as 1) Irina took a blow from that antlered thingy, 2) the captive in question seemed to be Alex's <em>mother</em>, and 3) Carlos conjured up a giant axe from nowhere and began to kick massive amounts of patootie. <br><br>She was quickly roused, however, by the latest round of attacks. "HEY! THAT'S MY ASS YOU'RE SQUEEZING THERE!" A suddenly very motivated Jenny began swinging with all sorts of enthusiasm, though fairly little success. Still, there was at least a little satisfaction to be had in chopping someone down to size.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">97302&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-11-23 11:26:59&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-11-23 11:26:59, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 13 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97302) Miss<br>97301&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-11-23 11:24:24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-11-23 11:24:24, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8 Result: 2 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97301) 1 Mook</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zenkai</strong> on <strong>23-11-2016, 23:06:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Irina twisted in mid-air just in time to be slammed into the wall instead of ground to pulp beneath the thing's foot. The impact left her miraculously rolling to the side, bits and pieces of rock and earth all over her. Once she finally did come to a standstill, it is after smashing through a couple more of the mooks, and it's right next to Alex. There were bruises and cuts all over her; bloody splotches on her yellow summer dress; her hair disheveled. A glance back at the huge axing action revealed that her attention was not needed there. Indeed, ading the freeing of this missus seems to be the productive thing to do.<br><br>"Hello there. Hey, Alex, you never mentioned your mom was here." She busied herself helping to free the woman from the altar. "Is that a khopesh you're holding, or are you just... eh..." she laughed, mischief glinting in her eyes.<br><br>At 2016-11-23 15:51:14, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d20a3 Result: 17 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97312) attack roll vs. mooks<br>At 2016-11-23 15:52:09, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d10a2 Result: 11 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97314) damage vs. mooks<br>At 2016-11-23 15:52:29, Zenkai (uid: 58164) rolls: 1d8 Result: 7 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97315) fray die
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>28-11-2016, 05:27:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Alex?!?"</strong> Sophronia spun to face their unexpected ally, narrowly dodging one of the mob as it lunged past her and smashed into one of it's allies instead, sending them both tumbling to the ground. Not much of a fighter, and unarmed besides, things were getting much too hot for the rabbit eared goddess. The antlered monster seemed unstoppable as it smacked Irina aside despite her savage attack, and the strange rock people were still thick on the ground.<br><br>Her heart soared for a moment as Carlos ripped the massive axe free from the ground, then fell as he began his swing. It was going to miss. Sophronia could feel it. But... but maybe he wouldn't miss. Maybe things <em>shouldn't</em> work out that way. Sophronia trapped that thought and focused on it, pushing back against the certainty that his blow would deflect off the monster's stony hide. The resistance was almost physical. Wherever that sense of future events was coming from, it didn't like that she was trying to force something back upstream. And yet...<br><br>Sophronia gasped as the resistance broke and Carlos' axe slammed home into the monster's hide, biting deep. <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rools</div><div class="spoiler_body">2 damage to minons from Fray, At 2016-11-27 22:13:44, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 7 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97374)<br>Whiff on regular attack<br>Commited last 1 effort on spun fortune to give Carlos the re-roll to hit.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>04-12-2016, 19:46:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Progress Bars</div><div class="spoiler_body">Goons AC 7 6/24.&nbsp; Morale check triggered for dropping below 50%...passed.&nbsp; Second Morale check triggered by leader death....also passed!&nbsp; Stone cold bastards.<br>Big Worthy falls down, goes thud.<br>Mob vs. Jenny...hit for 2 points<br>Mob vs. Soph...miss<br>Mob vs. Carlos...miss<br>Mob vs. Irina...miss<br></div></div><br>Carlos's desperate strike is true and good, landing with a heavy thudding sound that seems oddly organic...and then the great beast falls, screaming out the last of its wrath as it collapses, struck most mortally.&nbsp; This is followed a moment later by an unearthly screech like nails on slate as the ogre's remaining followers swarm you as if desperate to avenge the loss.<br><br>Of all of you, it is the cocktail waitress, she who is innocent of all but malice against pervs and gropers everywhere, who takes the brunt of their fury.&nbsp; Then again, they seem to be trying to break past Jennifer to get to the woman on the slab...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>05-12-2016, 12:13:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The head of Carlos's oversized weapon breaks off with the impact, and he stumbles back half a step, sagging slightly as the monster collapses.&nbsp; His exhaustion doesn't seem to actually slow him down much, though; as the remaining critters come charging in, what's left of the axe handle reshapes into a slightly better-balanced staff, and he begins enthusiastically smashing them, maneuvering to get in between what's left of them and the slab.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Attack: At 2016-12-05 04:44:11, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a12 Result: 28 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97562) (hit)<br>Damage: At 2016-12-05 04:45:09, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 16 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97563) (4 damage to goons)<br>Fray: At 2016-12-05 04:45:21, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97564) (1 more damage to goons)<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>11-12-2016, 00:22:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				By this time Jenny was hurt pretty badly, so it was a good thing and then some that Carlos was slicing through his group of evil nasties, especially now that the Big Nasty was good and dead. She made a few feeble little swings with the sword, but only managed to hit one more of the minions (why couldn't they be those cute yellow guys speaking in that quasi-Spanish sort of language?) which was pretty much all that was left. As it fell, so did she, collapsing on her knees and mumbling, "God, I feel like a pincushion..."<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">97841&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-12-10 17:17:55&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-12-10 17:17:55, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8a9 Result: 11 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97841)<br>97840&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idlewyld&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-12-10 17:17:29&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2016-12-10 17:17:29, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 10 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=97840)<br>To hit roll is another spectacular failure, but the fray die gets one - which is exactly how many are left, so there!</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>16-12-2016, 04:52:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The last of the nasties falls, and for a moment there is little to break the silence but your collective panting in exertion and the mumbled curses of the woman on the slab.&nbsp; Then Alex turns to regard her for a moment.<br><br>"Good to see you again, hon," he says.&nbsp; "Thanks for saving my life.&nbsp; Sorry about dumping your ass on my fuck-head in-laws because I couldn't stand being reminded of that brutal gang rape."<br><br>She flinches, even as her eyes flash angrily at him.<br><br>"What the fuck are you doing in Cortez, anyway?&nbsp; You were stuck in Cameron last I knew."<br><br>"Imprisoned, you mean," she spits back at him, venom in every syllable.&nbsp; "And don't start with me, boy!"<br><br>He glances at Irina, a bit of a blush crossing his cheeks, before shrugging and moving away.<br><br>"One of you can let her loose, if you want," he says, his voice soft.&nbsp; Too soft.&nbsp; Too quiet.&nbsp; "I'm going back outside.&nbsp; Getting some air."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>16-12-2016, 08:05:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Seeing that everyone else had the remaining foes well in hand, Sophronia turned her efforts to freeing their captive, though without much success. Breaking bonds wasn't really her forte.<br><br>She stepped back as the apparent reunion suddenly turned hostile, watching Alex and his mother argue without getting involved. She looked at the others with an eyebrow raised as Alex stomped off.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>20-12-2016, 00:50:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos looks like he really wants to say something, but opts to just let Alex go by.<br><br><strong>"God<em>dammit</em>,"</strong> he mutters, staring down at the ruined body of Willard Reed.&nbsp; <strong>"I'm so fucking <em>sick</em> of watching people die."</strong>&nbsp; He sighs, doing a poor job of concealing his fatigue as he walks back toward the altar, turning a chunk of his now-unneeded weapon into a small, sharp knife.<br><br><strong>"Ma'am?&nbsp; Hold still a moment and I'll try to get you free."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-01-2017, 22:32:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment, just a moment, Carlos is the center of the older woman's attention.&nbsp; Her hostile, angry, fearful attention, as if being at his mercy is somehow a fate worse than death.&nbsp; Then the moment passes and she shuts her eyes, nods, tries to roll onto her side to give him better access to the ropes.<br><br>"Sorry about your friend," she manages, the words much softer than anything she said to Alex.&nbsp; "Reckon he went out swingin'.&nbsp; That's something, ain't it?&nbsp; One of you goin' after my boy, or you gonna wait for him to get over it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>05-01-2017, 06:38:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her body still hurt like she had gone five rounds with - who was she kidding - she <em>had</em> gone about five rounds with an unspeakable horror - but somehow Jenny propped herself back up and, dusting herself off, noted, "Well, somebody'd better go out there and find him. Might as well be me." Of course, running was out of the question, so it was good that he was only storming out rather than racing. Running wasn't really an option at the moment. But she <em>did</em> have the advantage of instinctively knowing where she was going, so she managed to catch up pretty soon after she had reached daylight again.<br><br>"Hey! Alex!" she called out from about twenty feet back. "You gonna be all right? Obviously, it wasn't the kind of reunion you wanted, was it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>08-01-2017, 23:53:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos flinches back for a moment -- he <em>really</em> doesn't like being seen as a threat when he doesn't <em>mean</em> one -- but nods, and cuts the ropes as quickly and efficiently as possible.<br><br><strong>"He did, yeah,"</strong> he says quietly, stepping back a bit.&nbsp; <strong>"But it turns out that dying bravely doesn't make death any less shitty or painful.&nbsp; ...Can you stand?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>15-01-2017, 18:51:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alex has not stormed off so much as merely walked away until he is back out in the sunshine and open air.&nbsp; By the time <strong>Jenny</strong> catches up with him he's standing over the bodies of some of the security guards, who apparently tried to stop him.&nbsp; In their defense, he does not look like authorized personnel.&nbsp; <br><br>He does not look up at her approach, but his head tilts, the better to hear her.&nbsp; When he answers Jenny, his voice is very quiet.<br><br>"A simple thank you would have been nice," he says.&nbsp; "Not like I expected anything, y'know, major."&nbsp; He takes a deep breath.&nbsp; "And now you know.&nbsp; She thinks I'm a wimp because I won't just smack her around and claim her like an alpha male ought to.&nbsp; I can tell.&nbsp; But I know what happened.&nbsp; And I promised a long time ago that I would never..."<br><br>+ + +<br><br><strong>Soph</strong>, you easily pick up a sudden spike of shame from the older woman as if she is only too aware of the fact that she's about to bite the hand that's helping her.&nbsp; Along with that, you get a powerful sense of old shame.<br><br><strong>Carlos</strong>, as she sits up and rubs her wrists, she gives you a sidelong glance before adding a sharp nod.<br><br>"Reckon you got questions.&nbsp; Might's well ask 'em while I'm guilty enough to answer."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>16-01-2017, 00:24:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos's mother may have raised a fool or two, but they weren't him.&nbsp; Big families can be funny that way.<br><br><strong>"I appreciate it, and believe me, I've got lots of questions, but let's try the most obvious ones."</strong>&nbsp; He sighs, ticking off on his fingers.&nbsp; <strong>"What just almost happened?&nbsp; What was that monster I killed?&nbsp; Why you in particular?&nbsp; Is there, um, anything important Alex probably <em>didn't</em> tell us?&nbsp; And, uh...if I don't ask what Alex's problem with you might be, is <em>not</em> knowing gonna bite us in the ass later?&nbsp; Or is it just personal?"</strong><br><br>An awkward pause.<br><br><strong>"...Also, what's your name?"</strong>&nbsp; Sheepishly, he offers a handshake.&nbsp; <strong>"Carlos Esperanza.&nbsp; It's...it'd be a pleasure under any better circumstances, ma'am."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-01-2017, 05:58:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Carlos</strong>, the woman shoots you another sour look before seeming to reconsider whatever her issue with you might be and reaches out to shake your hand.&nbsp; Her grip is strong, solid.&nbsp; Her hand is rough.<br><br>"Harmony Singer.&nbsp; No idea what that big ugly fuck was, but I got an idea of what sort of thing it was.&nbsp; Been trying to stay the fuck out of this crap my whole damn life."&nbsp; Her jaw sets stubbornly.&nbsp; Her dark eyes flash.&nbsp; "Shoulda known it wouldn't work."<br><br>She sits up, stretches--she's taller than you'd expect, nearly six feet.&nbsp; Lean.&nbsp; Muscular.&nbsp; Even as old as she looks, she gives the impression that she could go a few rounds with an entire gang of Banditos and come out on top.<br><br>"Alex is a dumb, naive kid who thinks that saving the day will make everything better," she says, voice full of hidden pain and anger.&nbsp; "He still thinks shit can be <em>fixed</em>.&nbsp; He'll learn.&nbsp; As for him and me...he's got good reason to hate my guts.&nbsp; Just not the sense to stay the hell away from me."&nbsp; A soft snort of derision follows.&nbsp; "Can't fix me anyhow.&nbsp; Can't fix us.&nbsp; Ain't his fault, but he'd be better off not tryin'."<br><br>She gives Sophie a quick glance, as if she recognizes that someone is affecting her somehow.<br><br>"Oh, I get it.&nbsp; Funny.&nbsp; Look, it's between him and me.&nbsp; You friends of his?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>17-01-2017, 16:59:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He sighs.&nbsp; <strong>"Look, I'm sorry to even ask.&nbsp; But life has been pretty <em>odd</em> lately.&nbsp; As long as it's not going to affect <em>us</em> it's not our business what happened."</strong>&nbsp; Cautiously, he offers her a hand up.<br><br><strong>"And...I don't know about <em>friends</em>.&nbsp; We all ended up with a jumbo dose of superpowers and no manual.&nbsp; He showed up playing messenger.&nbsp; I guess I'm more grateful than I am suspicious, but we just met him the other day.&nbsp; It's been kind of a mess."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>19-01-2017, 04:02:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia shrugged and looked away as though disinterested. <strong>"Far be it for me to pry into your business."</strong> She frowned slightly as her gaze swept across the ruins of poor Willard before returning to Harmony.<br><br><strong>"I do have to echo Carlos' curiosity over what was going on here however. You say you've been avoiding this sort of thing for some time. Avoidance suggests knowledge. I would be grateful if you would share it with us, however limited it may be."</strong> She motioned towards the exit. <strong>"Perhaps on the way out? This place is... unpleasant."</strong> Sophronia grimaced.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>19-01-2017, 06:53:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"We never quite manage to be who our parents want us to be," Jenny answered, her voice tinged with the bitter tang of hard experience on that score. "We can only try to be the people we want to be. Not that doing that's worked out quite like I expected..." she added. <br><br>Nope. Definitely not that.<br><br>"Anyway," which came out with a sort of sigh, "it is what it is. She's here. You're here. We have to live with that. I'm sure there's gonna be more nasty surprises to come. Funny..." she mused as she sat in the dust, "I didn't expect to become a goddess or whatever, but even if I had, I didn't think it would work like this. It always seemed like the gods in those stories had at least some idea what they were doing..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-01-2017, 22:04:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Jenny</strong>, Alex looks very confused for a moment.&nbsp; Then he blushes.<br><br>"I was talking about <em>Irina</em>," he manages after a moment, looking almost mortified.&nbsp; "Don't think Mom wants to know about my sex life."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>23-01-2017, 00:37:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Now it was Jenny's turn to be stunned, cheeks turning a bright crimson. "Oh, you mean this is all about you two and what you two do in the <em>bedroom</em>?" A few swallows and heavy breaths later, she added, "Ohmigod I'm so sorry..."&nbsp; <br><br>It took a couple of more seconds of awkward silence for her to continue. "But you know, my mother is all about meddling in my sex life. Well, not so much sex as romantic but the two do intertwine. You know, stuff along the likes of 'Why don't you find a nice boy and move out of that Gomorrah?' I don't know if that makes you feel any better, but... well maybe it does?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>05-02-2017, 22:16:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Carlos</strong> and&nbsp; <strong>Sophie</strong>, the woman gets a resigned look on her face.<br><br>"Yeah, reckon so...it's a long story.&nbsp; We c'n just follow the boy and his little waitress."&nbsp; She limps after Alex.&nbsp; "You may have heard of Harry Truman.&nbsp; Y'know, used to be President?&nbsp; He had a right hand man turned out to be a major big deal shit-you-not geomancer.&nbsp; Fucker decided to use the freeway system to channel some ley lines and form a trap...protect the country from arcane threats and the like.&nbsp; Whole thing was centered on Cameron, Missouri."&nbsp; Her tone and face both turn bitter.&nbsp; "Place is an open air prison for anyone with certain talents.&nbsp; No trial.&nbsp; No defense.&nbsp; You just get...stuck there.&nbsp; Never mind if you're the sort who needs a time out.&nbsp; Fucking assholes..."<br><br>She turns a gimlet eye on you, Carlos.<br><br>"And the inmates don't have a lot of manners.&nbsp; Which explains Alex.&nbsp; And why Alex...why I gave him up to those narrow-minded fucktards in the foster system."&nbsp; Is that a tear welling up in her eye?&nbsp; "No kid deserves to grow up like that.&nbsp; Not that I would have been all that great a mom to begin with." She swallows, angrily wipes the back of one hand across her eyes.&nbsp; "So my boy got out.&nbsp; I'd hoped he wouldn't get caught up in all this mystic shit, but now that something broke the walls I guess it don't matter much anymore."<br><br>===<br><br><strong>Jenny</strong>, Alex blushes as well.<br><br>"Yeah, well, story of my life.&nbsp; You aren't <em>assertive</em> enough, Alex.&nbsp; You need some <em>backbone</em>, Alex.&nbsp; Girls don't like guys who aren't totally dominant and <em>decisive</em>, Alex.&nbsp; Alex must be gay 'cause he's not pushy enough to be a real man.&nbsp; So I..."&nbsp; He gives you a wan smile.&nbsp; "Sorry.&nbsp; I shouldn't lay this on you.&nbsp; We have problems enough.&nbsp; But thanks for listening."<br><br>He reaches out, as if wanting to stroke your cheek but unsure if you'll accept the gesture.<br><br>"And wolves, last I checked, don't share, so..."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>08-02-2017, 01:55:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hey, no worries. This is what I do, y'know listening - well what I <em>used</em> to do." Jenny didn't turn away as Alex reached for her cheek. "I mean half of being a cocktail waitress was just sitting down and listening to other people's problems. Like a psychologist you can pay for with cheap tips." She shrugged and smiled. "Besides, we're practically family now. Remember, <em>We be of one blood, ye and I</em> and all that?<br><br>"And speaking of the mating habits of wolves," she added with a bit more steel in her voice. "If Irina doesn't know how lucky she is with you, she's an idiot. And I'd be more than happy to tell her that if you want me to." After a quick glance around, Jenny pecked him on the cheek - all that she could allow herself given that taking the Wolf Queen's boyfriend was definitely out of the question if the group were to maintain the kind of cohesion they'd need to survive what still lay ahead. But oh... if only times were different.<br><br><em>But then again,</em> she added to herself, <em>isn't that always the case with you Jenny?</em><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-02-2017, 04:40:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Jenny</strong>, you learn that Alex blushes quite nicely.&nbsp; A few moments after you kiss him he brings his hand up, fingers lightly brushing where your lips touched his skin.<br><br>"Uhm.&nbsp; Yeah.&nbsp; Ritual invocation.&nbsp; It was important and stuff.&nbsp; It's okay.&nbsp; It's just...she's Wolf.&nbsp; I can't really expect much else, can I?"<br><br>He turns, gives you a shy little smile, and it's pretty obvious to you that while she might not share, he'd certainly be interested in at least negotiating the possibility.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>08-02-2017, 05:34:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia's eyes widened slightly at the news that the US Government had been running some kind of supernatural prison for decades. <strong>"I can't imagine what that must have been like... But what about what happened here? Just now? How did you presumably go from being trapped in a magical prison in Missouri to being chained to an altar in a cave in Colorado?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>22-02-2017, 06:54:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos...definitely flinches.&nbsp; <strong>"...Okay.&nbsp; I'm sorry that I had to ask, ma'am."</strong>&nbsp; He sighs.&nbsp; <strong>"And believe me, I keep my nose clean but I've known plenty of felons.&nbsp; I can only imagine what it must have been like."</strong><br><br><strong>"And...shit."</strong>&nbsp; He looks, well.&nbsp; Not <em>broken</em>.&nbsp; But a normal person would be.&nbsp; <strong>"We, uh, need to bring Willard's body.&nbsp; I want to find his organization...find his family, at least get the guy a decent burial.&nbsp; And stop bringing <em>normal</em> people into trouble like idiots."</strong>&nbsp; He also manages to blush and look sheepish.&nbsp; <strong>"And also, uh.&nbsp; I want to find his organization and get them to damn well help us.&nbsp; If they're willing to throw him into this crap, and maybe they had no choice, the least they could do is share the info.&nbsp; Even if his family really wants to know how he died."</strong><br><br>He looks very much like a man who is about to do the right thing, wherein the 'right thing to do' is defined as carrying a dead man back to the nearest town with no real way to explain himself.&nbsp; And because he's Carlos Esperanza, he makes ready to do the right thing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-03-2017, 20:43:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Carlos and Sophie</strong><br><br>You think Harmony's expression softens a bit.&nbsp; Maybe.<br><br>"Ain't yer fault," she says to Carlos.&nbsp; "But I reckon ol' Willy over there may be the last of his folks, given what seems to be goin' on out there.&nbsp; Whatever the hell happened, it ain't easy on the mere mortals.&nbsp; Still...yeah, you got a point.&nbsp; It's the right thing to do."<br><br>She turns to Sophie...and yes, she's definitely checking you out.<br><br>"When the ward around Cameron dropped, I did the one thing I've wanted to do for over thirty years.&nbsp; I ran for it.&nbsp; Had some old and unfinished business to take care of, and one of those things led me here.&nbsp; It was, uhm, kind of personal."&nbsp; Is that a blush?&nbsp; It is.&nbsp; "Dead end, though, so I ended up taking care of another bit of business while I was around to do it.&nbsp; Not quite so old, but I found out that one of the head honchos of the mining company out here had that in his basement."<br><br>She jerks a thumb at the ruined portal.<br><br>"Gotta admit I know where the boy gets his 'saving the world' tendency."&nbsp; She sounds dolefully proud.&nbsp; "For my trouble I got shanghai'd.&nbsp; And here I am."&nbsp; &nbsp;She gestures at the remains of the ogre.&nbsp; "And there lies the fucker that did it.&nbsp; So there's that.&nbsp; Now this shit-hole two horse town can go back to being nice and safe and normal again."<br><br>Taking a deep breath, she glances at Carlos once more.<br><br>"Y'all heard those radio broadcasts out of Kansas?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>20-03-2017, 02:06:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The moment was touching, and awkward at the same time. "Well, you have a right to expect her to meet you halfway. Just because she's Wolf doesn't mean you have to be too." And then, with another furtive glance and a bit of a blush, she added, "Speaking of meeting people halfway, maybe we should head back towards the entrance to meet the others. I hope they're not waiting for us to go back in. Gotta say I'm not really too odds-on for that one."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-03-2017, 02:22:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Jenny</strong>, he sighs and hangs his head.<br><br>"I guess.&nbsp; Uhm.&nbsp; Not that I'm really in a good space to deal with the slings and arrows of my mother's inability to simply be happy that I'm alive or anything like that."<br><br>Then he gives you another shy sidelong glance and leans over to kiss you on the cheek.<br><br>"Thanks.&nbsp; For, uhm, everything."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>23-03-2017, 05:35:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia smiled and subtly shifted her stance, posing to give Harmony a better look without being too obvious about it. Her smile faded as they brought up Willard, though it didn't stop her from putting her best side towards her current admirer. <br><br><strong>"It <em>is</em> a shame about Willard. I agree that we should take care of his remains."</strong> A wistful look came over her face. <strong>"Yes... I fear that very little will be easy on... 'mortals' any more. We have heard the broadcasts. That is, in fact, what drew us to this region in the first place. Do you know anything about them?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>30-03-2017, 02:57:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Now it was Jenny's turn to blush and smile, the imprint of Alex's lips still burning on her cheek. "No problem. Or maybe a little. But that's my job now. Official problem solver for the Vegas region and wherever The City wants to send me." After a few more seconds of awkward, she added, "Problem now - let's find the others."<br><br>And that's exactly what she did, peeking back into the cave. Just in time to overhear enough of the conversation to stop herself from a flippant entrance. "Yes. He was a good guy. It's awful what happened. We should... do something for him." Funerals weren't quite her thing, or any of the group's going by appearance, but as far as she knew, they were all he had, so she figured they should do something.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>30-03-2017, 05:58:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos frowns as he carefully lifts the body.&nbsp; <strong>"I suppose anything's possible, but it's still worth trying a few phone calls.&nbsp; No reason to assume everyone's <em>already</em> dead; normal people can be pretty tenacious if you give them a chance.&nbsp; We can start by inquiring into that Whitman guy and go from there, I guess."</strong>&nbsp; He doesn't sound terribly enthused about probably needing to search a dead man for contact information, but it's hardly the only unpleasant task on the horizon.<br><br><strong>"And I assume you're talking about the preacher who decided that having a few flashy tricks would be a great boost to his career?"</strong>&nbsp; To be fair, religions had been started for dumber reasons, and Alex <em>had</em> said they were gods now.&nbsp; It still felt wrong, though; presumably troubleshooting was more important than shooting off their mouths.&nbsp; <strong><strong>"I'm guessing he's like us, but less civic-minded.&nbsp; Anything else beyond what's been in the news?"</strong></strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>09-04-2017, 21:09:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Harmony nods brusquely by way of answering Carlos's last question.&nbsp; She blushes a bit under Soph's return attention as if acutely aware that 'young' and 'hot' are two words that simply don't apply to her anymore, however she might want them to.<br><br>"Yeah, that guy.&nbsp; Something feels really wrong about him."&nbsp; Her expression darkens.&nbsp; "I can feel that storm comin' all the way over here.&nbsp; Always said the worst thing in the world'd be some asshole with true faith, a belief in the end times, and an artifact to use as a battery..."<br><br>By this time Jenny and Alex have returned, and Harmony gives her son an odd sidelong look.<br><br>"Thanks, kid.&nbsp; You did good," she manages, just loud enough to carry.&nbsp; This seems to both please and embarrass him once the initial surprise fades.<br><br>"Ain't nothin', Mom..."<br><br>"Bullshit.&nbsp; You did the right thing, even for me," she growls at him, drawing herself up straight and stepping closer.&nbsp; "That means you're better'n me.&nbsp; So I guess I did somethin' right in this life after all."&nbsp; Her eyes drift to Jenny, carrying an unspoken question for the cocktail waitress.<br><br>"Guess you got work to do after we take care of poor ol' Willy."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>25-04-2017, 07:06:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"I never really thought those televangelist types actually had true faith,"</strong> Carlos muses, <strong>"but who knows now?&nbsp; I mean...fuck, I guess no matter what he really thought before, if you're already the type to think the world owes you a living, suddenly gaining obvious superpowers is gonna give you <em>ideas.</em>"</strong><br><br>He glances around at the others.&nbsp; <strong>"Should we get going?&nbsp; I don't really want to stick around long...but I guess we should check Mr. Reed's pockets for any other contact info before we get back to 'civilization' proper.&nbsp; We might not get a chance later."</strong>&nbsp; Turning, so the rest of the group can politely avert their eyes if they'd rather not watch, he carefully checks Willard's pockets.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>26-04-2017, 01:33:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Given her and Alex's recent conversation, Harmony's sudden praise came as much of a surprise to Jenny as to Alex, the odd glance the woman gave her, slightly less so, prompting an uneasy glance in Irina's direction. As such, Carlos's suggestion was quite welcome. <br><br>"Yes, let's see if he had any next of kin, then we can... bury him." It hurt just saying the words. It bore testament to the reality and danger of what they were doing, and the idea that people were going to get hurt and killed. Lots of them. And if they didn't do anything, more would get hurt and killed. "After that... Kansas I guess..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-04-2017, 05:01:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Investigating poor Willard's last notes is easy enough--you find a laptop and several physical notebooks in his truck, and after Soph gives the dead scholar an appropriate memorial (that also conveniently ruins future use of a certain altar), you move on.&nbsp; Alex gives you two solid options--north out of Cortez along Route 145 or due east along Route 160.<br><br>"Both lead us up into the mountains, but 145 takes us closer to Denver.&nbsp; Whether we want to go that way is another matter.&nbsp; But on the far side of the mountains we ought to be able to pick up our friend in Kansas just fine and from there figure out our next move."<br><br>A much-folded and worn road map from Willard's papers leaves a few more mysteries.&nbsp; There are symbols scrawled onto the map here and there, recognizably drawn from the man's notes.&nbsp; It isn't very clear what he meant by each (his handwriting was atrocious) but there was something of interest in the Gunnison Gorge area.&nbsp; Another glyph lies between Center, Del Norte, and Monte Vista...and perhaps out of mischief Willard had sketched a magical circle around the resulting triangular marking.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>28-04-2017, 07:38:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Hmm..."</strong> Sophronia flipped her hair as she mused over the map. <strong>"While I am curious as to what that that circle indicates, I feel that our 'friend' in Kansas is a more pressing issue. In regards to the route, what do we know of the current situation in Denver? If it's stable, it might be worth swinging by. We might be able to acquire additional resources there."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>29-04-2017, 02:54:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I don't know much about Denver," replied the cocktail waitress turned, well whatever it is they all were now. "But... well... I'd feel kind of bad leaving Willard's work undone, especially since what he's given for us. Is there any reason we can't go east first then north?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 08:16:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos chews at his lip thoughtfully.&nbsp; <strong>"Between the two...I'd say east, unless we need something in particular from Denver.&nbsp; Even if the city's still doing all right, traffic might be a mess."</strong>&nbsp; He points at the magic(?) circle on Willard's map.&nbsp; <strong>"May as well bypass the city, and see if we can find out what that is on the way to Kansas.&nbsp; Unless someone wants to have another try at Willard's notes."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>04-05-2017, 05:00:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Couldn't tell you about Denver," Alex shrugs.&nbsp; "Colorado Springs is pretty much a dead zone, though.&nbsp; All the good little fundies chose sides and went to war with each other when they decided that the End Times had arrived."&nbsp; The way he says this, it's as if he's discussing the weather.&nbsp; "Not that I've seen it, mind you.&nbsp; I just heard about it.&nbsp; I, ah, didn't come that way."<br><br>He rubs the back of his neck, blushes a bit.<br><br>"Due east it is, to Monte Vista.&nbsp; Got it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 08:45:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Then I shall have the bus readied. I worry what that pastor might get up to, but I can't deny that I'm just as curious about what Willard was up to."</strong> Sophronia pulled out her phone and sent a quick text to the leader of her entourage. A little later, the bus pulled up.<br><br><strong>"Lead the way Alex. You seem to have a knack for getting places quickly."</strong> She gave him a wink, then turned to Harmony with a subtly sultry smile. <strong>"Perhaps you would like to join me? Alex's truck is perfectly serviceable, but there's no reason to crowd it."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 20:45:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Okay with me," Alex shrugs again, then nods as the bus pulls up.&nbsp; "Guess I'll leave you to it."<br><br>He gives Jenny a tight smile as he makes himself scarce, clearly trying to get out of earshot before his mother answers Sophronia.&nbsp; For her part, the biker blushes.<br><br>"Oh, that's tempting, but...I gotta...I mean, I should...you're really fucking hot, you know that, and it's been a while.&nbsp; But I really should go and...wait.&nbsp; You came from further west, right?&nbsp; California still there, or did the coastline get shorter?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>15-05-2017, 00:34:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Los Angeles for me, actually."</strong> Sophronia smiled. <strong>"And yes, it's still there, though things have gotten... a bit rough. That's one of the reasons I'm hoping we can get the situation stabilized out here quickly. I have people back in LA who are relying on me."</strong><br><br>She climbed the steps up into the bus, then turned back to flash Harmony a playful look. <strong>"Are you sure? It's a very comfortable ride, and your free to just relax if that's what you would like."</strong> Sophronia disappeared into the bus, leaving the doors open behind her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>15-05-2017, 07:09:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Well.&nbsp; Somebody sure works fast, and...I'm not actually sure which of them it </em>is.<br><br>Carlos smirks to himself as he heads for his own vehicle of dubious origin -- if only out of a perverse desire to see how long he can keep the damn thing running, considering the engine was literally just a barrel cactus recently.&nbsp; <strong>"Guess we'd better get moving, then.&nbsp; The rest of the world's probably finding its way into another crisis as we speak."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>16-05-2017, 06:51:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny looked awkwardly back and forth between Alex and Harmony, and to a lesser extent Sophronia and Carlos. "Um... I guess I can ride with Alex... um..." She didn't quite know how to finish that sentence. On the one hand, she could completely understand Alex's mortification. On the other, with Irina heading back to her pack, her own feelings towards Alex were becoming far less theoretical and thus she wasn't quite sure how she was going to feel in a vehicle with mother and son riding together either. If life wasn't complicated enough with just the world falling apart...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-05-2017, 05:48:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Harmony blushes, coughs a couple of times as if trying to cover for something, and steps on board the bus after giving Soph another shy look that mixes clear interest with embarrassment.<br><br>Meanwhile, Alex waits for Jenny to catch up with him, but not much longer before he starts his battered old truck and turns along Route 160, heading east...and up.<br><br>The next several hours pass with all the dull monotony of a road trip without benefit of music and snacks, and the weather slowly turns to something&nbsp; nastier.&nbsp; No flaming hailstones or acidic rain of doom, but finding somewhere to hole up for the night would probably be a good idea.&nbsp; But before the deluge lands, your little party finds the crest of the route and modest lodgings in the form of a town best described as a wide spot in the road with what might have been a Forestry Service Visitor's Center before the world broke.&nbsp; Now it stands, empty and dark, but capable of housing the company in a pinch.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Side Story Potential?</div><div class="spoiler_body">And for those of you interested in doing something naughtier, I draw your attention to this little side-thread which has been neglected for far too long...https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=253386.0 </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>18-05-2017, 07:26:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The ride over was quiet, though not completely unpleasant. But then the weather decided to get in the way. By the time Jenny had made it into the Visitor Center, she was already drenched. Her brown hair leaked in rivulets on the floor, even as she emptied the remaining bounty of her purse on a table nearby for all to share. Mostly candy and nuts, but still better than nothing. Overall, however, she gave more the impression of a drowned rat more than the divine avatar of a city known for excitement and glamour,
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>19-05-2017, 05:27:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Two of Sophronia's minions exited the bus first, carrying umbrellas. Sophronia herself stepped out as soon as her mobile cover was prepared, looking <em>quite</em> pleased with herself. Today she was wearing a sleek, violet halter dress that hugged her generous curves along with a different, less elaborate pair of heeled sandals. <br><br>The rest of her entourage came after, some carrying umbrellas for Harmony, while the others toted along the big cooler she'd brought out in the desert. Once they were inside, Sophronia gave Jenny a look of sympathy. <strong>"Oh you poor thing! That won't do at all..."</strong> She made a small gesture towards the bus and addressed her men without looking at them. <strong>"Towels, quickly! The lady is soaked."</strong> The two men with the umbrellas trotted back to the bus, returning shortly thereafter with a stack of fluffy towels.<br><br>In the mean time, the other's placed the cooler down on a near by table. Sophronia gave Jenny a sincere smile, <strong>"I hate to upstage you, as your generosity and forethought do you credit. But while I may not be much use in the battles ahead, I can at least ensure that we don't have to deal with privation and discomfort along the way."</strong> She opened the cooler, revealing that it was full of different beverages as well as a few different varieties of pre-packed sandwiches*. <br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">*Using that wealth power! Specifically: "They always have sufficient food, drink, and clothing for themselves and their companions, drawing it from nothingness if necessary."<br><br>Also, I'm thinking that a little bit of that side story action is happening on the bus ride here. :3</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-05-2017, 20:56:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alex follows Jenny closely, drenched to the bone himself, and accepted a towel from one of Sophronia's followers which he drapes around himself...and Jenny, almost pulling her into his lap to share warmth at the same time and giving the appearance of helping sop up some of the worst of the rain.<br><br>Harmony also enters.&nbsp; Something's odd about her.&nbsp; There's a little less gray in her hair, as if the rain washed it out or something.<br><br>"Nice place you got here," she quips.&nbsp; "Kind of cozy.&nbsp; Wonder if there's anyone else around here, or if this is one of those ski lodges that's only manned in winter."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 02:47:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Thanks," Jenny answered with a smile of her own. Jenny was used to being upstaged, and Sophronia just always did it gracefully. In fact, Jenny got a bit envious at times. It was a mystery to her how with people like Sophronia running around - glamourous, sexy, expansive - that the City had chosen someone like her to be its avatar instead. Well, half a mystery. There was a lot to Vegas that wasn't all bright lights and one-armed bandits. She grabbed a couple of sandwiches and was about to get a towel when someone grabbed her.<br><br>And while Alex's move may have come as a little bit of a surprise, it wasn't an unwelcome one. And there was something to be said about conserving body warmth. The cocktail waitress snuggled in with a quiet, "My hero," as only half a quip, even as she added, "Not that I don't appreciate all the fine help from other quarters too, Soph."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 06:03:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos pulls up next to the other two vehicles...and as he steps out of his car, casually pulls a bit of the ground up into a perfectly functional (though somewhat odd-looking) umbrella.&nbsp; He arrives in the Visitor's Center mostly dry, and politely makes no mention of this fact as he folds up the umbrella, stretching his legs after the long drive.<br><br><strong>"Thanks, Sophronia."</strong>&nbsp; He selects a couple of roast beef sandwiches and a bottle of water, glancing around the building.&nbsp; <strong>"Well.&nbsp; It's not exactly five-star material, but I could start setting up beds for everyone after we eat."</strong>&nbsp; Taking a bite of sandwich, Carlos glances away from the others, trying not to smirk.&nbsp; <strong>"Just let me know, uh, where and how many."</strong><br><br>He had a feeling that he might need to add a few extra walls to the place, too.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>31-05-2017, 05:27:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophie took a seat at a nearby table and began eating one of the sandwiches with small, prim bites. <strong>"Beds would be lovely, Carlos. I'm really quite curious to see what you can come up with..." </strong> She looked around the building with a critical eye. <strong>"I can't say I'm terribly picky about the location, but I expect we'll need somewhere between one and a dozen, depending on just how big of a bed you decide to make."</strong> She gave him a cheeky grin.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-06-2017, 06:18:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alex manages a chuckle at this, wrapping the towel more securely around Jenny in a way that hides how his hands meet around her waist.<br><br>"At least one queen-sized, please," he says.&nbsp; "And yeah, walls would be...uhm...helpful?"<br><br>His voice trails off as he notices Harmony.<br><br>"Mom?&nbsp; You look, uhm...younger."<br><br>Harmony turns to him, head tilting curiously.<br><br>"Whaddya mean?"<br><br>"You look younger," he repeats.&nbsp; "That grey in your hair is gone."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 03:58:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny's only response to Alex's request was to blush ever so slightly, which meant that the redness could be seen from a distance of ten miles or so. It had to be noted, however, that she didn't make the slightest move to remove his hands from around her waist. "Yeah... that... " she eventually managed to convey as she looked at Carlos. "And... um... thanks for that..."<br><br>Needless to say, she was quick to jump on the bandwagon as the conversation shifted to something besides the expected need for beds and privacy in which to enjoy them. "Yeah... It's like you've lost a little of your gray, Harmony. Did you do something to your hair while you were riding with Sophro..." Two and two suddenly started coming together, and she found herself blushing again, even more brightly than before.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 04:41:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophronia, for her part, said nothing. She simply nibbled on her sandwich, all the while looking like the cat that swallowed the canary.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>17-06-2017, 00:21:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Yeah, I was thinking either two twins or one queen to each room.&nbsp; Unless someone snores, or has some other reason they shouldn't sleep in the same room as another person."</strong>&nbsp; Carlos stands up and cracks his knuckles.&nbsp; <strong>"Let me know if there are any special requests."</strong><br><br>The work proceeds quickly; frankly, dragging in extra material from outside takes longer than it does for Carlos to reshape it into walls and beds, and he seems to have no trouble turning wood and stone into properly soft mattresses and pillows.&nbsp; The mechanic seems to be enjoying himself as he works, whistling idly as the Visitor Center changes into a dormitory.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>18-06-2017, 07:47:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once the rooms were finished, Sophronia stood and waved her men over. <strong>"Keep a watch through the night please. Otherwise take your accommodations as you like."</strong> While they huddled over to one side, discussing their watch schedule, Sophronia claimed one of the rooms with a queen, looking back over her shoulder to smile at Harmony for a moment before she went inside. She left the door open behind her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>20-06-2017, 00:40:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Wow, Carlos. You're a master..." Jenny was duly impressed. Or at least very good at pretending to be. But considering the task at hand, how could she not? "Anyway... Thanks. I'll take the queen over there."<br><br>Jenny may have been announcing this to the room, but there was no doubt who she was looking at when she said it. Had everyone in the room been struck blind, it still would have been obvious. Just in case, she tugged on Alex's sleeve from within the towel. It never hurts to be sure. That done, she slipped out from under said towel and turned in just as she promised. And like Sophronia's room a couple doors down, she left it wide open.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-06-2017, 03:47:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Harmony and Alex share a brief moment, glancing at one another, testing the other's response as they follow their chosen companion for the evening, leaving Carlos all on his ownsome (at least as far as other demigods are concerned).&nbsp; Instead, the master craftsman gets to enjoy the quiet and focused admiration of the rest of Sophronia's fan club for as long as he's willing...and more than a couple of them hint at being quite willing to do like their queen mother and worship.<br><br>+ + +<br><br>The next morning, having left the relative peace and safety of the improvised shelter far behind, our band descend the twisting mountain highway and get their first glimpse of what lies inside that rune-marked circle on the map.&nbsp; The first indication of trouble appears when you reach the roadblocks near the base of the mountain and the eerie, empty traffic jam stretching back toward the grim and blackened landscape beyond.&nbsp; There are a number of police and National Guard vehicles on this side of the barricade, and it looks like there are a lot of bullet holes in some of the cars up against the far side.&nbsp; Here and there, further up the line, you can see burned out hulks that might have been hit with tank fire.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>06-07-2017, 06:20:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The bus drew to a stop as it encountered the blocked road. Sophronia and Harmony were in the back, enjoying some morning coffee on on the fold-out table. Sophie leaned over to look down the center walkway just as the driver called back, "Lady Sophronia, You should probably come and see this..."<br><br>A few minutes later, she stepped down from the bus, her tall, fitted hiking boots crunching against the gravel. The simple outfit of khaki fatigues she wore did little to hide her figure, but they did look fairly practical. A slouch hat completed the ensemble, with one side of the brim pinned up in the Australian style. A handful of her entourage filed out a few minutes later, all wearing combat webbing and well armed. <br><br><strong>"Well... That's not a good sign."</strong> She remarked dryly as the others approached. <strong>"Carlos, do you think you can whip up something more suitable for offroad travel? I don't think the road is going to be of much use."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>07-07-2017, 06:24:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny on the other hand looked pretty much like she always did. Giving the once over to the vehicles, she noted the obvious. "Something happened here. Probably a big fight. And my guess is whoever was driving these things got on the wrong side of something supernatural." The last point actually didn't have to hold true, but it would be way too optimistic to conclude otherwise. "I might be able to sneak ahead and get an idea of what's ahead of us. That way, we can at least know what we're facing."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>09-07-2017, 07:27:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Having reluctantly resisted temptation last night and slept alone, Carlos pulls up along with the rest of the group in his improvised vehicle.&nbsp; He exits, wearing dark jeans and a green polo, and frowns as he surveys the road ahead.<br><br><strong>"Well, I've got plenty of materials to work with,"</strong> he says dryly.&nbsp; <strong>"You want something big enough for just us for now, or are we bringing some of your people too?"</strong><br><br>Carlos glances back at Jenny, looking a touch worried.&nbsp; <strong>"Scouting definitely makes a lot of sense, if you're sure you can handle it.&nbsp; I'm not a huge fan of the idea of sending anyone out alone, though."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>10-07-2017, 05:18:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"I think something large enough for an extra half-dozen would be ideal. It won't be very subtle, but nothing more than walking would be, and I don't fancy that option."</strong> Sophronia walked over to one of the burned out vehicles and peered inside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>18-07-2017, 05:57:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods.&nbsp; <strong>"Sounds good.&nbsp; So, figure about the size of a decent-sized van?&nbsp; It can't hurt to have a bit of extra space, just in case."</strong><br><br>Barring any further suggestions, Carlos sets to work, casually 'harvesting' materials from the abandoned vehicles to forge his own off-road creation.&nbsp; After setting a frame in place to support the structure, he begins constructing a lightly-armored vehicle about the size of a large van and designed to seat a dozen, moving all the while with terrific efficiency as his power transmutes available materials into each part almost the moment he sets it in place.<br><br>The end product inevitably still looks a bit of a mess, sadly enough, unless someone produces enough paint to make it a uniform color.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2017, 05:14:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While Carlos is hard at work reconfiguring the bits and bobs and piles of scrap that used to be functional vehicles, one of Soph's entourage cries out in alarm and points at a crowd moving into view just at the far reaches of visibility.&nbsp; They do not walk so much as shamble, and while you cannot make out most details from here, there is something unsettling in the sight...<br><br>The works of George Romero spring immediately to mind, as do a plethora of imitators both cheap and lavishly supported.&nbsp; But the really disturbing part is the great palanquin held aloft by some of the crowd, from which a masked and robed figure appears to admonish and command them to whatever effort drives them hence.<br><br>Anybody want to bet that they aren't hostile?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>21-07-2017, 06:03:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"That sounds perfect Carlos."</strong> Sophronia smiled, then found a shaded spot to wait.<br><br>When the lookout gave the alarm, she gave a sharp whistle, then moved to a better vantage point to get a look at the incoming party. The rest of her entourage piled out of the bus and took positions among the wrecks, checking their weapons and otherwise preparing for battle. One of them trotted over to Sophronia and handed her a pair of binoculars.<br><br><strong>"Well that certainly doesn't look good..."</strong> She murmured as she brought them up for a closer look. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>21-07-2017, 06:23:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny's shoulders dropped a little as well. Apparently, scouting wasn't going to be all that necessary. And armored vehicles were going to prove useful. "Is it just that there's a lot of evil nasties roaming around, or do you think we actually draw them to us somehow?" She started to close with the others, though she was all too aware that she was hardly the tank of the group. Still, if there was trouble ahead, it was good to have all hands on deck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>30-07-2017, 04:19:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos pauses from his work, turning to stare at the approaching crowd for a moment.&nbsp; Idly, the chunk of metal he was reaching for reshapes into a battleaxe in his hand.<br><br>(Really, he's not sure which is worse, the zombies or the palanquin.&nbsp; It takes a certain type of person to unironically expect servants, zombie or otherwise, to carry them around by hand.)<br><br><strong>"Probably the first one,"</strong> he notes in response to Jenny's question, walking over towards the others.&nbsp; <strong>"I mean, we're the ones who were following a map here.&nbsp; I doubt whoever that is came looking for <em>us</em>."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>03-09-2017, 22:59:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Stat Block</div><div class="spoiler_body">We have here a medium sized Undead Horde with AC 7 and 24 Hit Dice and the ability to use Blood Like Water under the right circumstances.&nbsp; Light 'em up!&nbsp; And then there's their commander, who is...something else entirely.&nbsp; Statted as an Archmage, AC 7 and 6 Hit Dice, thus not subject to your Fray Dice.</div></div><br>The shambling horde slouches toward you, closer and closer.&nbsp; Violence is most definitely in the offing!&nbsp; And the distant figure on the palanquin seems to be making weird gestures with a really big stick.<br><br>Oh, brother.&nbsp; Someone's been watching Camelot again.&nbsp; Wizard's Apprentice territory, ha ha ha.<br><br>But the first lightning bolt is no laughing matter, especially not when it scrapes along the earth just shy of your position, leaving a smoking gouge in steel, asphalt, and stone!&nbsp; Yen Sid over there is at least a lousy shot...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>04-09-2017, 23:41:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos flinches back slightly as the lightning bolt cracks into the ground nearby, but straightens up nonetheless, belatedly remembering that he's probably the toughest person here (unless Alex is about to volunteer for the position) and needs to be ready to protect the others, if only by acting as a shield.&nbsp; <strong>"...I guess it doesn't matter what they were looking for.&nbsp; They've found <em>us</em> either way."</strong><br><br>He takes a few steps to get clear of both his project and his allies, grasps his axe in both hands, and spins about to hurl it at the stick-waving jackass.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Attack vs. "Archmage:" 2017-09-04 16:07:49&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-04 16:07:49, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a12 Result: 20 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106892) Hit<br>Damage: At 2017-09-04 16:08:20, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 13 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106893) 4 damage<br>Fray: At 2017-09-04 16:08:55, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106895) 2 damage to the horde I guess<br><br>(I also accidentally rolled a d<strong>18</strong> before the corrected fray roll, so please ignore that one, MP.)<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>05-09-2017, 06:09:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Gah!"</strong> Sophronia let loose an uncharacteristically un-ladylike squawk of surprise as the lightning bolt blasted into the scorched asphalt. She ducked down behind one of the wrecked vehicles and clamped her hands over her ears, mashing them down against her head. <strong>"Open fire!"</strong> <br><br>The comparative silence was immediately shattered by the rapid report of a dozen rifles opening up at once. They were civilian models, so not fully automatic, but Sophie's entourage wasn't worried about conserving ammunition. She was a goddess of plenty, and that applied to bullets and magazines just as much as it did to her overflowing cleavage. <br><br>A few of the shambling zombies dropped, and the mage himself seemed awfully upset all of a sudden. Not bad considering the range.<br><br>Still, they were closing rapidly. Sophronia took a quick peek over her cover, then ducked back down, digging her fingers into the earth. It was so dry and dead here... but there was always life to be found if you looked hard enough... <br><br>Suddenly, brown, thorny branches burst from the ground around the zombies, twining around their limbs and holding them fast! They fell into disarray immediately, but it was no guarantee that their master wouldn't whip them back into order soon...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Goon Mob for reference:<br>AC: 6<br>HD: 12 <br>Attack +2, 1d10 damage<br>Save 15+<br>Morale: Functionally unbreakable (Soldier's Faithful Heart)<br><br>At 2017-09-04 22:51:09, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 25 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106913) Hit archmage<br>At 2017-09-04 22:50:33, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 20 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106912) Hit Mob<br>At 2017-09-04 22:54:33, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 2d10 Result: 3, 2 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106914) 1 damage to each<br><br>Sophie commits 1 effort for the day to use 'Touch of Green Restraint' centered on the mob. It creates a 50' radius circle of angry plants. As long as they're in the area, both the mob and the mage will need to make Evasion saves at the start of the round to be able to move (though they can still fight). The mob will take my fray die (probably straight) if they fail. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>05-09-2017, 06:53:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny tried to charge up towards the wizard but, as usual, it turned out to be less than stellar, with her tripping over her own feet. She simply wasn't quite the fighter the others were - she was really more in her element before a battle or after one. On the bright side, on her way down, she took at least one of the shambling whatever it wases with her, so it wasn't a total loss.<br><br>Still quite embarrassing enough, though.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Jenny's Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">106915&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-09-04 23:45:53&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-04 23:45:53, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d20a9 Result: 11 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106915) Miss in a big way<br>106916&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-09-04 23:51:34&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-04 23:51:34, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8 Result: 5 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=106916) Takes down 1 mook</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2017, 19:19:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The oversized axe goes whirling away, sinking home in the palanquin at a nasty angle that looks (from here) to have done quite a number on the spellcaster, whomsoever he might be.&nbsp; You can even hear his shriek of rage from here!&nbsp; Whatever else, this throws his aim off and the impressive eldritch lightning-ball that he conjures and throws at Carlos misses by a fair margin...and zooms off somewhere behind you to create a secondary roadblock by virtue of shattering and slagging part of the road and mountain.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Evasion Save</div><div class="spoiler_body">&nbsp; Got a 9, which fails.&nbsp; They can attack, but not move.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Eldritch Attack</div><div class="spoiler_body">6+5+0 is a clean miss.&nbsp; But that would have done 1d6 straight damage to the countryside, so...it's all MDC, baby!</div></div><br>The shambling horde presses hard and home, though, making life more difficult for all of you, swarming the line!&nbsp; Soph, you get the impression that they have designated you today's special friend, because they seem to be targeting your location with extra enthusiasm.&nbsp; Two of your loyal crew go down, screaming as they are torn to shreds by the mindless horde, but this only seems to inspire the rest to greater effort!<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Blood Like Water</strong>&nbsp; Roll is an 8...2 hits to everybody, including Sophronia's crew.<br><strong>Horde Attack</strong> on Soph is a 16+8+1 for 25, but she lucks out when they roll a 1 for Damage</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>25-09-2017, 19:40:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos snarls in anger as the hapless mortals' death cries echo across the battlefield, apparently far less concerned about his own wounds or the ineffectual lightning blast.&nbsp; He stomps the ground hard, and a mass of earth in the shape of a long-shafted spear practically leaps up into his hands.&nbsp; He lays into the nearest zombies with his new weapon, clearing just enough room to fling the spear straight at the obnoxious wizard.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Carlos's HP: 10/12<br><br>Attack vs. "Archmage:" At 2017-09-25 12:26:42, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a12 Result: 27 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108104) Hit<br>Damage: At 2017-09-25 12:27:22, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d12a4 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108105) 2 damage to the jerk<br>Fray: At 2017-09-25 12:27:52, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108106) 2 damage to the horde<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>26-09-2017, 05:42:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The vines grew around and even through the shambling horde, ripping many of them to shreds. Unfortunately, they were slow, only catching the zombies once they were already among them. <strong>"Fall back!"</strong> Sophronia shouted as she followed her own advice.<br><br>The militia obeyed promptly, if perhaps a bit haphazardly, stopping to fire back at the entangled monsters every few steps. Sophronia borrowed a pistol from one of them as they passed and added a few more shots to the fusillade.<br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Vines do 5 damage to the horde<br>Normal fray die does nothing<br>Pistol does 1 damage<br>Minions Rifles do 1 damage<br>2017-09-25 22:27:56&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-25 22:27:56, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 5 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108118)<br>2017-09-25 22:39:07&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-25 22:39:07, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 1 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108120)<br>2017-09-25 22:39:42&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-25 22:39:42, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d6a1 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108121)<br>2017-09-25 22:40:22&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-25 22:40:22, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108122)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>29-09-2017, 05:55:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The good news was that the horde was stuck. The better was that Carlos took care of the wizard. So Jenny had the luxury of retreating a bit and throwing projectiles. Of course, she didn't carry a whole lot of projectiles around. But there were a few good sturdy rocks about and if there was one thing Jenny could do, it was improvise. And improvise she did, right onto the heads of the trapped shambling horde with more than a few satisfying clunks.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">108253&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-09-28 22:52:03&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-28 22:52:03, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108253)<br>108252&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noone or Anyone&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-09-28 22:51:31&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 2017-09-28 22:51:31, Idlewyld (uid: 53605) rolls: 1d8a1 Result: 5 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=108252)<br><br>3 Damage to the Horde Total</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>15-10-2017, 22:51:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Current Status</div><div class="spoiler_body">9 total damage to the Horde, and the Boss Wizard over there is toast...grand total of 13 hits down on the Horde.&nbsp; Which got a 3 on their Evasion save and cannot move.&nbsp; And since everyone has disengaged from melee range, they're not able to attack either.</div></div><br>Carlos's improvised half-level <em>terra hasta</em> spell works like a charm, and not even the sudden flicker of a shield spell on the part of his target makes any difference in the outcome as the last any of you see of the distant spellcaster is his being impaled by the stone before it crumbles and buries him under a whole lotta dirt.<br><br>A moment later the horde seems to lose a bit of focus and cohesion.&nbsp; Oh, they're still dangerous, and you probably don't want to hang around until they can break free of Soph's green hell, but they no longer seem to be under any sort of command and control.&nbsp; Fortunately, this gives you all a chance to catch your breath and relax since they are no longer in melee range.<br><br>Of course, the other option would involve standing off and pumping more bullets into the horde...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>01-11-2017, 04:31:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophie's minions slowed their fire as it became apparent that they were out of immediate danger. Some stopped to reload, while others looked to their goddess for guidance.<br><br>The golden haired beauty leveled her borrowed pistol at the horde and fired off another round. <strong>"Keep shooting until they stop wiggling. There's no benefit to be had by leaving them to wander."</strong><br><br>Once again, gunfire echoed over the plain.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Ermahgerd sorry for being awful and not posting -_____________-<br><br>Goons and Soph hit with guns<br>At 2017-10-31 21:27:04, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20a+9 Result: 21 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109453)<br>At 2017-10-31 21:26:28, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d20a+9 Result: 23 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109452)<br>Soph does 1 damage, goons do 2<br>At 2017-10-31 21:28:16, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d6a1 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109457)<br>At 2017-10-31 21:28:02, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 6 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109456)<br>Fray die, and straight fray die for vines, doign 2 and 3 damage.<br>At 2017-10-31 21:27:28, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 7 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109455)<br>At 2017-10-31 21:27:18, Knarfy (uid: 59001) rolls: 1d8 Result: 3 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109454)<br>8 Damage total to the zambies.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>12-11-2017, 04:17:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos breathes a sigh of relief as the distant magician's fall; sadly, there's still a bit of cleanup to be done.&nbsp; He takes up a position near Sophronia's minions, ready to intervene in case any zombies get too close to the fragile mortals, and begins methodically producing stone weapons and hurling them at the trapped undead.&nbsp; Hopefully they can finish with this mess before anything else goes wrong.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Carlos's HP: still 10/12<br><br>Attack: At 2017-11-11 20:59:15, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d20a12 tn1: 7 tn2: 10 Result: 12 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109893)<br>(accidentally rolled on the Exalted/Scion roll system, but the d20 still came up a 1 so that's a miss)<br>Fray: At 2017-11-11 21:01:37, Jefepato (uid: 99) rolls: 1d8 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=109894) (2 damage to the horde)<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-11-2017, 05:10:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				You pour more fire into the horde, diminishing their numbers with admirable if heartless efficiency, and soon enough...not as soon as could be wished, but soon enough...the last of the living impaired ceases to draw attention.<br><br>In the aftermath, Soph, some of your lads and lasses succumb to what they've done and need a few moments to recover their composure.&nbsp; It's one thing to mow down enemies in battle. This was more like shooting helpless fish in a barrel, and it takes them a bit to get over it.&nbsp; Much as the delay is a pain in the ass, it does mean that your entourage are not callous, sociopathic assholes...<br><br>Alex looks over the ruined bodies and looks profoundly unhappy, but doesn't say anything about the wait.&nbsp; Instead, he gives his mother a sharp look, then glances at Soph, shrugs, and trots off to scout another path for your vehicles to take.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>29-11-2017, 02:26:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos's expression is conflicted as he surveys the last of the fallen zombies.&nbsp; <strong>"We should probably at least bury the bodies once I finish the new van,"</strong> he decides.&nbsp; <strong>"I can dig fast, and it doesn't seem right to just...leave them there."</strong><br><br>Before that, though, he trots over to check out the palanquin where the body of the lightning-throwing weirdo lies.&nbsp; Hopefully there's some clue as to who this person was, or what was going on, or...something.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>29-11-2017, 05:30:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Of course..."</strong> Sophronia's mouth was set in a hard line. She left her people to tend to themselves for the moment. As gruesome as it was, it had been clear enough that whatever the things that had killed their friends were, they were dangerous to leave alone. <br><br>The vines lost their vigor and quickly wilted as the power that sustained them waned. Sophronia picked her way through the carnage until she reached the bodies of her fallen soldiers. The bodies... weren't pretty. She swallowed the lump in her throat and produced a pair of shrouds from the same place she got all of her clothes, nowhere, and covered the bodies carefully. <br><br>She tucked their arms in and wrapped them as best she could for the moment. The others would have to carry them back to the bus to be properly cared for later.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-01-2018, 06:11:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The funeral, such as it is, takes a fair chunk of the rest of the day to complete even with Carlos's expertise and arcane specialty to speed things along.&nbsp; While he can do the work in quick time, it's the human factor that gets in the way.&nbsp; Alex has not returned by the time you are finished, and Harmony seems ill at ease in his absence.<br><br>She's also looking a lot younger than she did last night.&nbsp; Her hair's darker.&nbsp; Far fewer lines in her face.&nbsp; It's like she shed twenty years or so over the past two days.&nbsp; And she goes over to poke around the remains of the would-be spell-slinger and his palanquin with the air of someone who really wants to go hit some, buddy, so is well out of range during the funeral.<br><br>She returns not long after the last of the earth is replaced, hands in pockets, sulking like a teenager.<br><br>"Nothing over there.&nbsp; Nothing useful, anyway.&nbsp; Just a bunch of cheap-ass robes and trinkets.&nbsp; Whatever the fuck he was, he was a poseur."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>14-01-2018, 01:55:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Hm."</strong> Sophronia looked sadly at the cluster of saplings that marked the grave sites. One day, she would be able to do better than a few trees to mark their passing. One day... But not today.<br><br><strong>"Whatever the quality of his trappings,"</strong> Sophie addressed Harmony, <strong>"His power was no false front." She gestured to the scorch mark his lightning bolt had blasted into the ground. "It's a strange new age we've entered, and it's still early. I have no doubt that his apparel would have caught up with his ability given time."</strong><br><br>She turned to speak to the others. <strong>"We're probably safe for the moment. I can't imagine that someone like that would have tolerated much in the way of neighbors, but I want to get moving soon as well. Should we set out during the night, or wait till morning? And does anyone know where Alex got off to?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>14-02-2018, 06:32:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"So what you're saying,"</strong> Carlos says carefully, <strong>"is that wizards <em>are</em> real, and that guy just wasn't really one of them?"</strong>&nbsp; The practical difference isn't readily apparent from where he's standing, but there's no point arguing it.<br><br>He shrugs at Sophronia's words.&nbsp; <strong>"I'm fine with going on, but I can't speak for everyone else.&nbsp; And...well, I was thinking that traveling at night might be dangerous, but staying <em>here</em> could be dangerous just as easily.&nbsp; If everyone else is okay with moving on now, we might as well get going.&nbsp; You want I should get back to finishing that van?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-02-2018, 18:03:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Harmony thinks this over, looks decidedly unhappy about whatever she figures out.<br><br>"More like he had real power, but it wasn't his.&nbsp; It was borrowed.&nbsp; I dunno how to explain it.&nbsp; Kinda never really made it much past the GED.&nbsp; Not that we had that in my day."&nbsp; She scuffs the ground with the toe of one boot.&nbsp; "But yeah, there's real wizards and shit. Didn't get stuck in Cameron Motherfucking Missouri for too damn long because of my sunny disposition.&nbsp; I'm not sayin' he wasn't dangerous as fuck."<br><br>Running a hand through her hair, she grimaces.<br><br>"Like a four year old with Daddy's shotgun."<br><br>She grimaces again when the subject of Alex comes up again, hugs herself, steps back from the conversation as if the thought of moving on or staying here is a matter of general indifference to her.&nbsp; So when Alex reappears a short time later, she goes to find one of Soph's female devotees to hang with for a bit.<br><br>"Route's clear once we get past that jam," the younger man reports gruffly.&nbsp; "Flat, level ground.&nbsp; Smooth sailing.&nbsp; Just a lot of burned out wreckage and ex-people around.&nbsp; Fun times, huh?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>25-02-2018, 09:14:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Perhaps we should have just built a bulldozer instead of a van... It might have been better to just power through if it's not too far..."</strong> Sophronia crossed her arms and pursed her lips, annoyed at her own lack of foresight. <br><br>After a moment, she threw her hands up. <strong>"Oh I suppose it doesn't matter that much. It should be fine."</strong> She turned to shout at her minions, <strong>"Boys! See if you can find somewhere to stash the bus for a little while, maybe camouflage it with some rubble and such? You may be camping out here for a little while. See if you can find any camo netting in those national guard trucks. I have a feeling you might get <em>lucky</em>."</strong> She grinned.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Committing 2nd effort to get lucky with some camo netting :)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>13-03-2018, 06:04:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Then should we be expecting to come across whoever he was borrowing from?&nbsp; The idea that someone is just lending out powers to people who think it's fun to play necromancer is...I guess it's about as scary as a lot of the other shit we've seen."</strong><br><br>Carlos glances back at Sophronia, pausing in his work.&nbsp; <strong>"I've never built a bulldozer before, but it's probably doable if you think we need one.&nbsp; The engine in this thing's already pretty powerful, so I guess I <em>could</em> just replace the wheels with treads and slap a blade on the front."</strong>&nbsp; He shrugs.&nbsp; <strong>"Might be better to just proceed for now, though, and make adjustments later if we need to."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-04-2018, 05:35:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shelter in place proves to be a popular idea with the rest of the crew, tired and worn as they are after their fight, and the camouflage netting Sophronia manages to scrounge up is useful enough.&nbsp; Alex makes himself scarce again, obviously as much to get away from Harmony as to do some actual scouting.<br><br>The night passes, and in the morning Alex has returned looking no worse the wear for his extended time in the field.&nbsp; This time, however, he's grinning.<br><br>"You won't have to make many adjustments," he tells Carlos.&nbsp; "I found an easier way.&nbsp; There's a semi-improved road off the main line that we can use to bypass the next chokepoint.&nbsp; The ranch houses are all burned to the ground, but since nobody was trying to run parallel to the freeway when they were escaping the craziness due east of us, they didn't block the access route.&nbsp; Or even try them, looks like."<br><br>Not even Harmony's looming in the background seems to shake his improved mood.<br><br>"After this, though, it's pretty flat...and I think we're heading right into the maw of Necromancer Central.&nbsp; Could be a bit fun in there." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>03-05-2018, 01:36:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carlos isn't nearly as enthused by the good news as he'd like.&nbsp; Easy travel or no, the prospect of more fights that are liable to get good people killed is...less than thrilling.<br><br><strong>"So when you say 'Necromancer Central,'"</strong> he asks, very carefully, <strong>"should we be expecting more people like...well, that guy?"</strong>&nbsp; Carlos jerks his thumb in the direction of where the lightning-flinging zombie 'master' fell.&nbsp; <strong>"Or are you talking about whoever or whatever guys like him get their power from?"</strong><br><br>He pauses awkwardly.&nbsp; <strong>"...Not that I'd know enough about the difference for the answer to matter.&nbsp; Any special precautions we should be taking?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>09-05-2018, 04:55:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				This morning found Sophronia dressed similarly to the previous day, but with a more militaristic bent. Desert camo replaced khaki, and a sand colored beret replaced the slouch hat. The pistol strapped to her thigh certainly gave it an edge as well.<br><br><strong>"Either way, it's something that needs to be dealt with. I say we range ahead down this short cut and leave a few here for now in case we need somewhere to fall back to." If things seem fairly safe, they can catch up to us easily enough."</strong><br><br>It only took a moment for her to pick out a few of her retainers to accompany the group, and only a few moments more for them to collect their kit and get loaded into the vehicle.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>04-06-2018, 04:58:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Most likely?&nbsp; The answer to your question is 'yes'.&nbsp; As in yes, more like him, and more as in the source of their power.&nbsp; There's this thing...call it a parasite.&nbsp; Powerful.&nbsp; Nasty.&nbsp; Exploits the gaps and the weak points in reality, feeds off of the sort of fervor that scared and angry people can build up with just a little guidance."</strong><br><br>Alex runs one hand through his hair and sighs.<br><br><strong>"Not to mention a fuck-tonne more zombies. It had to be zombies. Always with the damn zombies.&nbsp; At least these are Romero-class and not those Ragers or something like that."</strong><br><br>He nods in agreement with Sophronia's suggestion.<br><br><strong>"Works for me.&nbsp; Oh, and a bit further on, the roadblocks ease up.&nbsp; It's almost as if whatever hit these people got most of them before they could run.&nbsp; Fun, huh?"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idlewyld</strong> on <strong>04-06-2018, 05:45:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny looked up the road with grim determination. "Every time you think you seen something really bad, there's something worse up the way." Another glance at the devastation and she added, "I suppose that I'm not going to be able to blend in up ahead. I can fit in pretty well, but I think the walking dead may be a little beyond my competency level."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Knarfy</strong> on <strong>17-06-2018, 22:33:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"It really is the end of the world as we knew it."</strong> Sophronia said with a sad smile. <strong>"Nothing to do but try and make the best of it I suppose."</strong> She took a moment to squeeze into the vehicle along side the rest, bringing a hot flush to the lucky fellow on the end as her well cushioned thighs pressed against him. She reached through the window and slapped the roof a few times. <strong>"No time like the present. The sooner we can get those sad mockeries of the dead back in the ground, the better."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Jefepato</strong> on <strong>24-06-2018, 05:41:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Hypothetically, does that mean that if we could get people to be less scared and angry, the parsite gets less dangerous?"</strong>&nbsp; And then the people would have even less reason to be scared, weakening the monster even more, etc...<br><br>Of course, that leaves the question of how one could possibly make people <em>not</em> be angry or frightened during the fucking apocalypse.&nbsp; Carlos is a little short on ideas, there.<br><br><strong>"I guess we'd better get going, then.&nbsp; Things aren't going to get any better if we wait around."</strong>&nbsp; He climbs aboard the vehicle, silently hoping that the armor he added will actually hold up in a crisis.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Godbound: Fifty-two Pickup (Story Thread)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>25-07-2018, 05:01:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Oh, don't I just <em>wish</em> it worked like that,"</strong> Alex snorts, shaking his head and grinning wryly.&nbsp; <strong>"But you know that old saying about the two most common elements being hydrogen and stupidity, right?&nbsp; I'm an OPRA-ist when it comes to such expectations."</strong><br><br>Then, off of the resulting blank looks, he sighs and translates.<br><br><strong>"Only Pit Realms Await.&nbsp; Which is to say, there are vastly more places where life is nasty, brutish, and short if it can exist at all.&nbsp; I see no reason to expect that a few dozen rousing choruses of Kum-By-Ya would do jack to slow down something like this joker.&nbsp; We're gonna have to do this the hard way."</strong><br><br>Harmony crosses her arms and gives him a sharp look, as if she's disappointed to hear him be so pessimistic, but this is quickly replaced by a more thoughtful and somewhat sad expression.&nbsp; She turns and invites herself onto Sophronia's bus rather than continue.<br><br>"So.&nbsp; Who wants to drive point?"<br><br>The next several hours are slow but steady, and most of the trouble you have is getting around roadjams caused by crashes&nbsp; and (in one case) a crashed helicopter.&nbsp; In almost every case you're able to quickly find a way around, and the deeper into this zone you get the lighter the traffic gets.&nbsp; Indeed, it's lighter than you'd expect, as if the doom that befell these little blink-and-you-miss-em towns&nbsp; hit so suddenly that they had no time to flee.<br><br>You do have to deal with a few roving bands of shambling undead, but you move faster than they do so they aren't much threat.&nbsp; It isn't like they have a hive-mind or anything, right?<br><br>But your next port of call...<br><br>You can spot the necro's palanquin all the more easily because someone saw that new Mad Max movie or something and tricked his rig out with some bigass speakers and lots of floodlights, as if trying to make himself the most glam raiser of undead this side of the Pecos.&nbsp; Which wouldn't be too much of a problem, really, except that he seems to be besieging the town that was next along the road.&nbsp; Just him and a few zillion undead and his own version of the Grimm Brothers' Gospel Hour.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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