Twi309c

Megaman - Sunday, July 09, 2000, 10:06 PM

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The Reploid Room - Entrance Foyer

You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Eclipse: "Eclipse, you reading?"

Guardian gives a slight wave to Twila not really knowing why. He seems a bit shy and slightly uncomfortable by not really knowing anyone here. Not really knowing what to do he introduces himself. "Um hi...I'm, Guardian." He smiles.

A fit young man walks in through the door and peers around, black bag in hand. He looks over at Guardian. "Hey, where's the old man that was in here earlier? The one that was screaming."

(Ch. D [None]) King transmits: 'Any Stardroid activity? Pluto? Eclipse? Libra?'.

Twila Peterson is a bit shy herself where new people are concerned. So, she knows the feeling. "I'm...my name's Twila. You're...with Repliforce?" she takes a stab at a guess. After all, Maverick's don't greet humans in friendliness and the others would have been androids. She looks startled as one such an android comes in, offering a blink. "Old man? Dr. Wily?" She, after all, was the one that gave news that would have sent Wily screaming. The young man, who looks quite human thank you, replies, "Yes, him. Where is he?"

Guardian looks over to the fit young. "Oh you mean Wily, huh? Well I'm afraid I haven't seen since I had to leave to return to my base." He looks over to Twila and gives a nod with a smile again. "Um, yes I am a Forcer a new one at that just signed up when this all happened."

Ahhh, ever one to make an entrance and truly shatter a scene. Unfortunately Eclipse hasn't quite grasped the concept that people can get outright startled when he arrives. Although then again perhaps the concept itself is irrelevant to the giant database. Light gathers at all corners of the room sure enough, and merges together, giving way to a flowing yellow liquid state that grows in size and form, until finally the very entrance of the reploid room itself is filled by a single, gargantuan presence...arms crossed over his mammoth chest...single eye peering downwards.

(Ch. D [None]) Guardian transmits: 'Um Eclipse is here'.

(Ch. D [None]) Agile transmits: 'Doing?'.

(Ch. D [Blaze's-Circle]) King Dragon transmits: 'Say what?'.

(Ch. D [None]) King transmits: '...where?'.

(Ch. D [None]) Guardian transmits: 'Reploid Room'.

(Ch. D [Hunter-Alliance.]) Dr. Wily transmits: 'Really? I shall join you shortly...'.

Twila Peterson answers the android, "Uh...he's not here. Or...haven't seen him." She offers the Repliforcer a, "Nice to meet you. Sounds a bit rough joining when...all this started. Hope your holding up alright---" She then cuts herself as once more Eclipse answers her previous radio in a rather dramatic away. She watches as he reforms and she glances towards the Repliforcer. "No, don't...he's not here to cause harm..."

(Ch. D [None]) Agile transmits: 'I am in the Reploid Rooms dance floor.. I don't see him..'.

(Ch. D [Blaze's-Circle]) King Dragon transmits: 'I think I'll take a look myself'.

(Ch. D [None]) Guardian transmits: 'He's just outside of it'.

(Ch. D []) Blizzard Man transmits: 'Please, report all activity to me.'.

(Ch. D [None]) Tequila Worm transmits: 'Stardroid no esta.'.

(Ch. D [Hunter-Alliance.]) Dr. Wily transmits: 'Where, Guardian? I stand just outside the Reploid Room...'.

(Ch. D [None]) Agile transmits: 'The Entrance.'.

Slash Man looks over his shoulder at Eclipse. "Hey, the Doc will probably want to talk to you so stick around. Err..." He blinks and suddenly jumps back against the wall dropping his bag. "A Stardroid!"

(Ch. D []) Twila Peterson transmits: '*deep breath* Foyer. I ...uh...radioed him.'.

Gravity Man walks in, upside down on the ceiling as usual. He avoids the various lights and stuff, when he receives a transmission. He looks up, and notices a Stardroid in the room. "A Stardroid! Kill i- er ..." he pauses as he thinks that this looks like Eclipse. Hmm.

Guardian literally jumps up in the air as Eclipse arrives. "Holy..." he cuts himself off and calms down. "Oh, your the one that saved us yesterday. I have yet to thank for what you did" he gives the giant a nod and looks around to see what else is going to happen.

(Ch. D [None]) Guardian transmits: 'Ok he has yet to do anything but appear'.

Blizzard Man sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Interesting...Please elaborate as to why...I will remain silent of the entire matter."

Mac walks in, his armor clanking slightly as he does so. He takes up a position near his allies, observing, for now... but seeming to be almost taking a flanking position lest something should happen... as if he could withstand anything worse than a paper cut...

The Mad Doctor slowly makes his way into the Entrance Foyer from the outside... he leans on his cane and strides in, his eyes slowly studying the area.. and most importantly... where Eclipse stands.

Twila Peterson watches as the others start piling in and steps somewhat closer to Eclipse as a result. She didn't know the Stardroid wouldn't simple radio back. But like yesterday he responded with his physical presence. As the others continue to enter she feels her cheeks blush a slight red as she asks, "I...just wanted to ask you...what made you change your mind...about helping us?"

(Ch. D [None]) King transmits: 'Within the Foyer of the Reploid Room?'.

Guardian gives a nod to all the new arrivals and just slightly points to Eclipse. He then remembers something he once heard (Don't point) so right away he drops his hand down and smiles slightly.

(Ch. D [None]) Guardian transmits: 'You got it'.

(Ch. D [Hunter-Alliance.]) Dr. Wily transmits: 'Correct. It is Eclipse.'.

(Ch. D [None]) King transmits: 'Shall I make an appearance?'.

Tequila Worm wiggles into the room and just drops his jaw open at the Stardroid. His jaw, however, is not the only thing to drop... a bottle of tequila smashing on the ground. "Madre de Booze! Eets uno eye droid de stars. Een me bar, si!" Several server bots come and clean up the broken bottle. "Eh, eefen I wasn't a dreenken worm, I'd start now."

(Ch. D [Blaze's-Circle]) King Dragon transmits: 'Then again, I doubt I'd fit, someone maybe keep me informed on the goings on in there?'.

You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Blizzard Man: "Curiosity? He did happen to save my life twice."

Eclipse is indeed standing there, filling the entire entrance itself, leaving rather little precious room for people to filter in. Needless to say...it's starting to get rather crowded in here, though the giant Stardroid doesn't seem all that bothered by the sudden cramped conditions. Since Twila is really the only one to ask a question...he tilts his gaze down to her, though it sweeps about across the others who filter in for a few moments.

"After some deliberation..." he rumbles, voice now amplified in the tight space to a point of vibrating intensity. "...fascination with this world has been reflected into my own purpose. To allow it to be destroyed would be....detrimental to that purpose."

Crash Man leans against King for a moment, "This is the Stardroid on our side, right?"

Ice Man steps into the Entrance and spots Eclipse immidetaly. Wow.

Blizzard Man sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Very interesting...I will be in contact later on...I have some research to do..."

Dr. Wily slowly makes his way towards Twila, his eyes upon the giant Stardroid. "Ahh... Greetings, Ecplise! I am glad you could make an appearance here."

King glances to Crashbo at his side, and gives a sage like nod. "Aye. Tis the one that struck down the vile Pluto last eve."

Twila Peterson nods towards the tranmission absently and then gives a short verbal response as well before stepping aside for her .oO(UGH!)Oo. "counterpart".

Gravity Man sits down on the uncrowded ceiling, looks down at the crowded situation below and sniggers to himself.

Twila Peterson comments, "So...you like Earth then, that it?"

Crash Man nods, "Right." The right corner of his mouth sags slightly when he says that, just like Sly Stallone!

Mac remains silent and guarded. Just in case.

You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Blizzard Man: "Uh...I hear ya..."

Eclipse offers only a brief stare back towards Wily's greeting, not offering one of his own. Such things aren't in his programming after all. So it's not that he's a snob or anything.

Again Twila asks a question, and he peers down towards her once more, pausing as if contemplating his answer...then finally rumbling, "Affirmative. It is...agreeable for this world to survive."

King gives another nod, his hand gripping his battle axe tightly.

Crash Man decides to ask the Stardroid something. He's too scared, as he's likely going to die anyhow. "Hey, Clipso. What's Jupiter weak against?"

This one has never been one idle conversation, Twila recalls. Feeling somewhat awkward she slightly dips her chin. When one of the Masters speak out she pats down what she was going to state and instead waits.

Agile pipes up, "Can you give us any clues as to how to defeat the other Stardroids without getting fragged? Can you help us again?"

Dr. Wily returns the gaze of Eclipse's massive eye levely. "Ahh... I thank you them for your help and your support of our world, Eclipse. And hmm. May we gleam information from you, Eclipse? We could use much of what you have beheld to aid in the survival of this world and if you enjoy it. You are more then welcome to stay after it is saved."

King glances side long to Crashbo, narrowing his optics. He's made it clear time and again that Jupiter was the final property of the Elite. He shakes his head, hoping the might Eclipse to procure an answer in the least.

Eclipse's eye tilts towards Crash Man and the question that he asks. For a long moment...he says nothing, then finally speaks up. "My own databanks are not privy to the schematics and weaknesses of the other Stardroids...as before this, I have never engaged them in open battle. Nor have I ever been involved in conflict of any type. Since the reconfiguration of my protocols...I have been absorbing new data on a scale unequaled except when first created."

Another pause, and he turns to view both Agile and Doctor Wily himself. "The information that you hold already is the most vital. To ensure the world's survival, one must acquire all of the keys, it is this that will unlock the power needed to save the planet."

Twila Peterson questions quietly, "What...kind of data are you absorbing?"

Dr. Wily nods. "I thank you, Eclipse. And you are right. I am glad we obtained the most important information to our cause...and I am sad to say, I have little to ask you. I do simply though ask this...that you enjoy yourself on our world... for you fight for it...it is how your home if you would wish it." Wily grins broadly. "If you fight with us...we shall fight with you...if you ever need protection from your fellows... all you need to is ask."

Ice Man paces back and forth......

King says, "Looks as though we must deal with Jupiter as we dealth with Venus. Give him the beating of his life."

Dr. Pavel Cossack says, "Is that vise?"

Crash Man says, "Of course it is. Sheer brute force rules, man. It's great at the box office, too."

Eclipse rumbles in return to Twila. "Combative data. On a personal scale. First recorded case was in the foiling of Libra's attempt upon the life of yourself." He then pauses. "...second recorded case was in the offensive actions against designate Pluto." He then falls silent again, apparently having to take a few seconds to process each and every statement or question. "You have personally seen that Stardroids can be overwhelmed by sheer force. Although technologically advanced far beyond that of your own capabilities, even Stardroid reserves are not infinite. Your actions are beginning to show effects."

Twila Peterson tilts her head gently to the side. "I am wondering about something. Is...your case usual? When one of your kind is perceived to leave the fold," after all he was declared guilty before he actually was, "is death the usual sentence?"

King begins to use his processor instead of competing in said pissing contest, for now, and decides to enter himself and join in the conversation with the Stardroid Eclipse. "The Stardroid known as Mercury told us earlier today, while Milord and I were in Maverick Hunter Headquarters with Ms. Peterson, that we already were in ownership of four keys: The Stardroid Commander, Duo's, yours, the Herald, Mercury's, and the Destroyer, Sunstar's. Might I venture to inquire how these keys are related to the tangible one we received from Venus today, as well?"

Twila Peterson blinkblinks towards Wily and leans over to whisper...hoping he's not losing his hearing. She's had to speak too loud.

Eclipse shifts again, not having much room to maneuver in here for that matter. He peers down at Twila, and answers with an absolute tone, as if there's no doubt in his own mind. "Termination is the decree for my own existence as of now. It is unknown whether it an unanimous decision, however it is a decision nevertheless that has been reached...and will be acted out."

His single eye then blinks slowly, and he lifts his gaze to view King now. "The keys themselves will make themselves known when the time is right, whether in physical form, or intangible. However...there is an inconsistency that I am aware of in your assumptions. The possession of the other keys I do now know, however I am aware that you are not in possession of my own. Mercury was incorrect in this assumption."

Twila Peterson blinks slowly. "He was?" she asks surprised.

You whisper '*clearing of throat* You told them they were tangible?' to Dr. Wily.

Dr. Wily whispers: 'No... But this is...'.

Crash Man thinks, "Hey, did anyone ask Eclipse if he knew why Venus just up and melted when we beat him up?

The Mad Doctor listens to the words of Eclipse... slowly nodding as he slips a hand into one of his Bottomless Pockets and slowly draws out a foot long, golden key...holding it out to Twila. He speaks out to Eclipse. "I see... I understand as we have done nothing to learn or earn the key, Eclipse. And hmm. I understand...as for the key of Duo." Wily looks to Twila. "We do not have it yet..." Wily then turns his gaze to Eclipse. "How many keys must we gather in total, Eclipse? Simply the Nine?"

Twila Peterson glances towards Wily again, slightly frowning...but states nothing to support or reject what he had stated. She does look down at the 'key' he holds and offers a bare nod on acknowledgment.

The Mad Doctor slips the key into his Bottomless Pocket...

"Ten keys in all must be gathered." Eclipse rumbles, centering his giant eye on Wily himself, lid lifting ever so slightly. "Those you are in possession of right now are evidence of those which must still be gathered. The signs of the planets as well as two others, Duo's and mine are involved. One must gather them through either destruction, or understanding to acquire the keys from the individuals themselves. Not all will require devastation to acquire, it will be up to yourselves to decide how you approach each and every one."

Agile nods slightly, "You said something about not havin' your or something.. can we have it?"

The Corruptor nods slowly, spinning his cane and jauntily leaning upon it. "I thank you, Eclipse...and so yours as well?" Wily slowly nods. "I approached Venus alone and unarmed first...and spoke to him and offered him the way of peace. He refused. He paid the price." Wily regards Eclipse for long moments. "I shall do the same for each, save Pluto, for he has already forfeited his chance for peace." Wily sends a glare in the direction of Agile... then turns his gaze to Eclipse. "May we come to understand your key, good Eclipse?" Wily...can be diplomatic when he wants to be.

Eclipse's form shifts once more...and his entire form appears to slump faintly.

"It is impossible for me to divulge mine willingly." He states in a deep rumble, almost regretful. But he appears to keep speaking of it however...as if well aware of something.

"But you need not concern yourselves of mine right now. It will become available to you soon enough, and before the deadline has approached."

Twila Peterson opens her mouth to inquire of something else...but is cut off. She turns her gaze back towards the Goliath and nods, wondering idly if he's speaking of what she thinks. "The Huntress?" she merely asks.

Dr. Wily nods slowly and lets out a sigh. "Thank you, Eclipse. I understand." Wily gazes upon Eclipse for long moments. "You may have to sacrifice more then us for this world you care about. I have heard the words of the Herald upon many of the others." Wily then turns his gaze to Twila with a nod...possibly he too was about to ask that question.

"They seek me now...as I speak. They draw near. Even now they have come too close and I must move on, to lead them away lest they place the defenders in danger once more." Eclipse states, voice reverberating in it's intensity. Finally, he moves...his giant arms uncrossing from one another...and hanging down loosely at his sides once more. "I must depart immediately and delay their actions further." Apparently having made his decree, he's already beginning to change shape once more, his form starting to shrink towards the floor as it loses it's solidity....

The Perverter nods slowly... "Farewell Eclipse. If you do need refuge... We will fight for you. Farewell untill the final days."

Twila Peterson raises a hand within a half wave, murmering, "Goodbye..." not knowing what she can offer further...

Eclipse continues to melt thusly, not offering any goodbyes in response. It's just the way Eclipse is...as it's beyond his programming to do so. Finally, as the last of him melts away...the light dissipates with it, and once more there is nothing where previously a giant stood.

The Corruptor steps back in from the outside, shaking his head.

Twila Peterson furrows her brow within a frown. She had wanted to ask the doctor a few questions of her own. Apparently she wasn't able. She crosses her arms in front of her chest, wondering when she'll be able to ask.

Dr. Wily says, "Irritating... I thought it was the Stardroids..."

Dr. Wily slips his hands into his pockets, looking about... Eclipse... being gone.

Twila Peterson finally notices him returning and uncrosses those arms. "Doctor, spare a few moments?"

Guardian looks at Twila and Wily. "Should we leave to let you discuss?"

King grabs his axe from idleness at his side and strides to Wily's position, taking up residence as being his watcher of sorts. Leaning down, he inquires for his own personal gain, and that of his brethren.

King whispers to Dr. Wily: '... new ... to ... had to apply in ... ...'.

Dr. Wily turns his gaze to Twila... regarding her with narrowed eyes. "Of course, Twila." Now that Wily knows she is his 'Counterpart'... he seems to... dislike speaking to Twila even more then he used to. Like oil and water.

Lovely. Twila can't help but feel the same actually. "I never got wo ask you about Venus before now. What judgment did he represent...or what traits did he have that you noticed?"

King says this with a slight hint of unkowning, as Neptune may very well be the bearer of such traits. "Patience?" King then shakes his head, snorting. "No, no, could not be. He was not such, for Wily spoke to him of peacefully handing over his key, and in battle he was most defiantly as child of Chaos."

Dr. Wily shakes his head slowly, crossing his arms over his chest. "No, He was a child of Order. His revelation is as such: The Realization...of the Inevitable...He was always there... always coming... no matter how slow or ponderous. That was his Key... the Inevitable and the true understanding that everything in the end...is inevitable...even though it may take a long... long... long time..."

Dr. Wily says, "If we save yourself now... it will not save us forever... a Million... Billion years from now... our sun will go Nova... and there will be nothing we can do then... It is... inevitable..."

<Meanwhile...just outside...>

Oddly, as Eclipse begins to leave, a small purple kitten wanders down the street from the opposite direction, fur suddenly snapping on-end, watching Eclipse's light pinpoint with that glare cats are so fond of when chasing mice. Suddenly, a voice booms out, readily apparent to the gathered, and Eclipse. "Watcher! For your Transgressions against our Lord and Ladyships wishes, you must be punished!"

Zero looks up from his standing position not far from the Reploid Room. He arches a brow to the events, having been staring at the sky rather intently for quite sometime. He stares as the -- cat -- talking and shakes his head, "I've honestly seen everything now."

Dr. Wily says, "That... was the key of Venus."

Sure enough, the pinpoint of light that is Eclipse's manifestation comes to a halt as the kitten speaks up.

Bet you didn't expect -that- one now did you?

The light then drifts outwards for a bit more, coming to a halt in the midst of the street...and once again, Eclipse takes on a solid image all over again, growing in size as the liquid form takes shape. Within seconds, Eclipse has taken on his full form once more, single eye glaring towards the source of the voice itself. He -does- know where it came from for that matter. Though he doesn't answer the voice....instead, his gigantic hands clench ever so slightly into fists....as he stands statuesque in place.

Twila Peterson turns towards King, then back towards Wily, nodding. "I see. So---" But she gets cut off as there's a bombing voice from outside. "Oh no...excuse me..." she states while rushing past for the exit.

San Angeles - Northern Downtown Northern downtown San Angeles. Like much of the city, there is the constant noise of hover cars and people. Between the honking of cars and the constant shouting and talking, this area never knows silence. The buildings are the usual cataclysmically tall, though many are completely covered in -massive- signs and advertisements. Flashing lights, Coca-Cola signs, Marlboro signs, and any other drink, cigarette, hovercar company, and "adult" oriented stores are plastered alongside skyscrapers and buildings. If there's anything you need to buy, there's no doubt that it can be found here.

Twila Peterson hurries to the entrance of the building, looking about for the sudden noise she had heard from inside, having a horrible feeling...

Mac follows Twila's lead, his armor clanking along the ground as he runs.

The kitten stalks out to the middle of the street, fur still on end. She hisses, before a black aura forms over her body, and her body suddenly shifts up and into the air, into the lithe form of Luna...as The Huntress, Artemis. Leather clothing creaking as she floats in mid-air, the Huntress' bow appears in her left hand, a black arrow with rather evil-looking prongs on the arrowhead forming in her right. "My brother. Lady Duet and Lord Duo have decreed that I and my sister punish you for your Transgression against The Judgment. Do you plead for your life, in exchange for eternal imprisonment?" Black light flows up Luna's form, leaving her clad in black leather.

The Mad Doctor rushes out of the Reploid Room a moment after Twila, he brings his hands up to his lips... and then gives a loud whistle! A low roar fills the area as the WilyDragon rumbles to life, slithering around the side and towards the Reploid Room's entrance...

Zero looks around as the voice booms, correctly responding to the pose this time. It's then that he notices the newly formed Stardroid. He narrows his eyes and snorts, "About time one of those @#$& things showed up." He lowers his arms from their folded position so that he can more properly observe while being ready for anything.

The WilyDragon lays down as Wily rushes for it... he rushes into the hatch that opens... a moment later it closes... and the WilyDragon rumbles again to life...

Mac scowls, glancing about... eyes falling on Zero. He comes to attention immediately. "Orders, sir?"

Seminole hops from rooftop to rooftop, making his way from the southern part of the city toward the Reploid Room. He doesn't have any idea that the Stardroids are here, yet, but he's got a pretty good idea that trouble's up.

A corner wall of a building suddenly cracks and explodes, small bits of derbis flying everywhere as the silver blur slams into it. However, it doesn't seem to do much other than change the blur's direction as Silver mane launches himself upwards in to the air and back, his reverse arch seeming to bring him back towards the action. Gracefully (Isn't that just like a cat?), Silver Mane twists and turns, flipping around so that his silver form is coming down right at the street as the dark form begins to take shape over the kitten in the street..

Guardian comes walking out still a bit shocked by Eclipses first apprentice he is quet intent on heading home. As he walks out he suddenly sees a cat turn into Artemis and Eclipse is there too. He literally jumps up in the air again. "@#$& man you Stardroids are gonna give this very young reploid a heart attack" he smirks slightly as he holds his chest. He looks over to Zero and whispers to him. "Um, sir if you don't mind what's going on."

"Imprisonment is irrelevant..." Eclipse rumbles, voice taking a deeper tone...much more insidious in a way. As Luna takes on her true form, his eye narrows to almost a slit...but doesn't quite blink. A red glow begins from somewhere deep inside, as he keeps his giant hands clenched into mammoth fists. "My destruction is irrelevant as well. If you so desire it, then you may carry it out in due process. I will not surrender to imprisonment. It will accomplish nothing. This is where I stand, and this is the decision that I have made." With that, he takes one slow step forward, his giant foot coming down on the pavement, and the ground heaving under his mammoth weight. A challenge in itself.

Twila Peterson widens her eyes a bit. Unheeding her brother's previous warnings she starts rushing towards Eclipse, right at the time the Huntress is about to Teleport. "Wait...don't!"

Eclipse actually flinches back as the arrow strikes near, starting to raise his hands as if to try and ward it off. But it's too fast...and speed was simply something that he was never build for...and never capable of doing with any measure of ease. Within the blink of an eye, the teleportation field envelops his gigantic form, and that of someone -else- who ran close at the last second...reducing both temporarily to little more than tiny black balls, that whiz away almost faster than the eye can follow.

The WilyDragon rumbles as it turns...the eyes narrowing as the Teleportation field takes place. It lets out a terrible roar of anger! The Corruptor within the dragon growls with the massive beast as it lets out a deafening, angry ROAR! "NO! Curse you!!!"

<Soon...somewhere within the state of California...>

Silver Mane, Twila and Eclipse appear OUTSIDE of San Angeles, amongst the wooded areas north of the city. They would note being inside a large forcebubble, with a secondary wall between Twila and Mane, and the Stardroids. Floating in the other side of the bubble is Luna, with Eclipse on the ground. Regarding Twila and Silver, she snorts. "Foolish mortals. The Watcher is doomed; he cannot transgress again."

Seminole sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Twila, do you copy?"

As Silver mane lands on solid ground where Luna used to be, his instincts kick in, spinning him towards Luna as she reappears. The arrow loosed from her bow, the silver Repliforcer launches himself at the Stardroid again, using his momentum and fluid movement as he hurtles at Luna, arms and claws outstretched as he's enveloped into the inky teleportation bubble right after Luna.

You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Seminole: "*transmission apparently goes through...but no answer as of yet...""

Seminole sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "<sounding a bit more desperate> Twila, do you copy?"

You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Seminole: "*transmission apparently goes through...but still no answer...""

Twila Peterson stumbles and falls due to the unexpected transference of the selected group as well as some...freeloaders. She glances up to catch her breath. Yes, Eclipse did ultimately betray them but... "Luna, Libra's using you!

Silver Mane smacks -hard- into the force bubble, going full force into it as he tumbles to the ground heavily. He remains on the ground for a few long moments, heavily stunned from the force of the unexpected impact. However, his radio crackles to life briefly, and he shakes his head, snarling as he pulls himself to his feet, glaring malevolence at Luna.

Eclipse reforms in his solid-form all over again, giant body again taking shape. Apparently he isn't affected overly by the dizzying speed at which he was moved, because he slowly takes a step forward, ground again shuddering under his heavy tread. "Enough of this Huntress." he rumbles. "It is my destruction that you desire, then you will carry through with it. It will ultimately gain you nothing in the end."

Luna/Huntress: Before you floats a rather gorgous, and overtly humanoid, robot. Reploidish, as in being more humanish than most robots, the definitive female figure is clad in black leather. Knee-length boots, with daggers tucked into each. A leather halter top and leather pants that show off all of her thigh. On her back is a quiver of arrows, and her left-hand holds a bow. Black hair is pulled up into a rather intricate braid-like design, held together by a feathered pin. Deep indigo eyes look out from a tan face, lips colored a bit of sienna. A gold tiara with indigo gem sits on her forehead.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Seminole transmits: 'Radio contact does not seem possible.'.

Luna reaches up toward the feathered pin in her hair, removing it, revealing a thin, silvery blade. "Nothing is to be gained from your destruction. It is my duty to destroy The Transgressors against our Lord and Lady." She floats down to the ground, the bow phasing out of existence. If Twila's comment is heard, it goes ignored. She rushes at Eclipse suddenly, letting the blade fly toward him, like a stilleto dart.

Silver Mane picks himself up and placed a clawed hand on the force wall, shaking his head, his silver mane shaking with him as he tries to clear his head of the stunning impact. Upon hearing Twila's words, his optics snap open and focus in on the human that's stuck here with him. He growls deeply, then moves over to take a defensive position behind (and over) the human, his red optics staring deep hatred at Luna from his side of the wall.

Eclipse stands there as the dart is revealed, and flies through the air towards him like the flying needle that it is. Even then he does not budge, and perhaps almost stupidly, he stands there and takes it, as the projectile thuds into his form, hitting just below his large eye and to the right slightly.

For such a small weapon, it has a hellish effect, as lightning arcs outwards from the impact point, and Eclipse's entire upper torso simply EXPLODES outwards in a shower of solid liquid and flame.

What is left standing is eerie in it's own right. The entire lower torso of the giant is untouched, as are his shoulders and arms, but a giant gouge has been carved in his upper body, leaving a jagged edge, and floating of it's own accord, a single metallic sphere. Is this the central core that makes up Eclipse? Is this the source of his almost limitless database...that which holds every bit of knowledge that he's ever gathered in his entire existence?

One thing is apparent. Floating there in the midst of the sphere itself...is a single golden key, gently turning on it's orbit. It's obscured from view however as the form of Eclipse melds together once more, and he reshapes his body as it once was. "Even the Huntress is well aware of my physical power. You will not find your task so easy as you would be akin to believe..." With that, he brings up one giant hand, and SLAMS it into the ground, sending the entire earth lurching violently under his massive strength....and a heave of movement heading straight for Luna herself.

As the earth lurches toward the Huntress, she leaps into the air, doing a graceful flip over the wave of earth and landing. "Yes, I know of your own physicality. It will not assist you in defeating me." Moving into a combat stance, she reaches into her belt, pulling out a disc, made of a white, silvery metal. Spinning around, she lets it fly like a discus, toward Eclipse's form. Silver Mane snarls, his teeth flashing out as Luna attacks Eclipse. In a small fit of rage, he slams one of his clawed hands into the force wall, effectively doing nothing as his blow has no effect. He snarls, crouching lower down towards Twila, "Is what you said really true..? Is Libra manipulating Luna for her own ends..?"

Twila Peterson watches, pressed against the secondary wall, feeling a bit more than helpless as she watches them both. Although thankful for the reploid's presence behind her she doesn't, or rather can't outwardly show it at the moment. All she can do is watch. "It's...all my fault..." she murmurs. Once again the ground trembles and she's forced to use the shield as a support as well.

Twila Peterson turns towards the reploid. "Libra was the one who told Luna of the betrayal before there even was one. She's trying to do away with Eclipse because he's been protecting me against her."

Silver Mane arches an eyebrow slightly, just looking at Twila with a mix of disbelief and curiosity. "Why would he be protecting you?"

Eclipse takes another heaving step forward, moving over the gargantuan rift he created in the earth itself. Luna's discus comes straight towards him, and thuds into his body once more, leaving a crackling trail in it's wake....then becoming imbedded in place. "I do not fear my own destruction." He rumbles, ignoring the wound inflicted on his body. Even then, he extends his right arm, as it suddenly elongates, growing elasticized as it stretches outwards, hand gaping out, looking to wrap right around Luna's form in a near crushing grip. "It is a trait that even the others of our kind are not immune to. Whether or not it is a flaw in my creation...it is irrelevant."

Should she tell? Twila gets out, "She's afraid of me because of something I possess that...could help save Earth. Libra's been doing all she can to see too it that we're thwarted..."

Silver Mane's expression changes to a mix of disbelief and concern, but the concern finally wins out as Silver mane goes to one knee. His large frame forms a sort of protective frame around Twila, "If I can manage to get Luna's attention away from Eclipse for even a -moment-, do you think you might be able to get through to her?"

As the elastic hand and tendril of arm slam into the Huntress, and wrap around her, pushing her back, she lets out a grunt. As the pressure from the massive hand begins, she lets out a small scream of pain, being crushed inward. Again, she phases, and appears in the air above Eclipse. The gem in the tiara on her forehead glows. "Death to our kind is unthinkable; this is why they fear it. You know this well, brother." She suddenly screams, "TWILIGHT FLASH!" And a timestop field phases into effect inside of the area occupied by Eclipse. And she floats downward, unsure of Eclipse was affected or not. Her bow appears, and she pulls the string taut, aimed at Eclipse again.

Twila Peterson shakes her head sorrowfully. "I---I don't know if it's even possible. And even if it was...Eclipse ultimately did do as she said. But...it's worth a shot..."

Silver Mane nods down to Twila. He brings a hand up, holding out to her a pair of silver earpieces, "I need you to do me a favor, then. Put these on.. things are going to get extremely loud in a minute, and I don't want to hurt you. Quickly, while I prepare myself. Be ready to speak to Luna, just in case this actually works." As he hands her the earpieces, Silver mane stands up once again to his full height. Digging his feet into the ground, he sets his stance, then braces himself against the force wall as he starts building the power inside of his internal systems to do this, hoping it will succeed.

The temporal rift takes effect immediately, as the giant Stardroid heaves back once more, arms at his sides as his gargantuan hands clench into fists once more. For a split second...he's completely immobile...but even then, energy begins to crackle around him, and his form begins to shake once more. Even the timestopper effect begins to struggle to contain him within, and starts to lose the battle bit by little bit.

Then just as abruptly and violently, the entire field shatters alltogether. One can practically hear a roar of rage come from the very depths of the earth itself, reflected in the sudden revving that begins to build within the giant's form. Energy spheres gather together again, the emblazoned power merging into one, the central point none other than Eclipse's eye itself. The charge itself is short...but the blast unleashed is no less devastating, rocks and dust kicked up in a cloud in the wake of the beam that tears away and goes right in on Luna's form.

The beam tears through the air, leaving a small cleft in the earth, the beam is so large and devastating. Luna stands her ground, however, and the beam engulfs her. No scream is heard, no death cry, not even a scream of pain. The twang of a bowstring being released, however, is. The black, wickedly-pronged arrows that are The Huntress' trademark come flying out of the beam, toward Eclipse's arms. Two of them; and as the beam finishes its run, leaving an even-blacker Artemis in it's wake, the arrows prepare to strike home in Eclipse's arms.

Although something about this scene causes an ominous shudder down the length of Twila's spine for different reasons than she may think. She's distracted by the "Good Samaritan" as she moves to take the pieces...and then openly stares towards Eclipse's attack for a few precious moments, unable to move. After the girl shakes herself from her trance she moves to put the devices within her ears, then glances towards the reploid to gesture she has them in. Luna sends a radio transmission.

But not for long...she then turns a distracted gaze back towards the battle... Twila Peterson .oO(May be too late...)Oo.

One, two...just like that the two arrows strike home, imbedding themselves in each of Eclipse's arms, and carrying right on through. Both limbs practically explode from the impact, reduced to little more than stumps in their wake. Still, even without them, he charges forward once again, eye narrowed to a dangerous slit now. With a revving of power and form coming together, the arms once more take shape, growing in length and raising up over his head. Whilt it's an effort to still re-form the limbs, Eclipse manages to do it nevertheless and one gargantuan hand smashes outwards, now moving for a physical strike against the much smaller Luna's form. While his firepower may not be on the scale of enviable by many...

...for sheer physical strength, there is almost no equal.

Silver Mane glances down at Twila and nods to her very briefly in acknowledgment. He builds up the power quickly, the sound starting with a low, deep resonating growl starting at the very core of Silver Mane's structure. His hands grip the force wall firmly, locking him into place as he suddenly opens his silver muzzle, unleashing an extremely loud roar from the very depths of his body. A lion's roar, already enormously powerful in nature is amplified a hundredfold as the sonic roar engulfs the area. Were it not for the force wall, you get the impression that the roar would be making sonic waves that you could almost see ripple the air. The sound is deafening and engulfing as it drowns out all other sounds as it overwhelms them, the silence that comes in its wake seeming only more amplified as the silver Repliforcer hopes to gain Luna's, and Eclipse's attention with his roar.

(Ch. D [None]) King transmits: 'Ms. Peterson? Silver Mane?'.

The deafening sound echoes throughout the woods, sending wildlife in all directions scattering. However, this has a more detrimental effect on Artemis; she flinches, and spins around to shoot a glare at Silver Mane. Her mistake. Eclipse's massive hand clips her; well, it more than clips her. It connects, full on, and sends her flying with a shriek of pain. Pain. Something the Huntress rarely feels, runs through her mind, sending her anger and rage and urge to hunt skyrocketing. She slams into the forcefield however, with a dull thunk, and collapses to one knee, her bow having been knocked out of her hand and laying across the makeshift arena. "Ugh..." she moans, looking up, a bit of indigo fluid flowing from her mouth.

Twila Peterson raises her hands up to her ears, now *very* grateful for the dampeners. Although her hearing is protected, the sound is still heard and carries some effects on her. Sheesh...that was loud! She squints her eyes in mild pain as she glances back towards the battle between the two, wishing neither had to fight at all...

The echoes of Silver Mane's roar are only just fading as another noise rises in the air. Higher-pitched, but a thousand times louder than even that amplified assault of sound. While the force shield protects those outside the bubble of Stardroids, the interior can't be doing well. Just where is this sound coming from? Up in the 'corner' of the sphere, floats Libra. Not the harmless-looking porcelain doll version, but the one who's body glows with unearthly black light, clad in blood red. Rising from deep within her near-immortal Stardroid lungs comes a scream that could shatter a skyscraper with it's force. "WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRGGGGHHH!"

Silver Mane drops to one knee, energy expended from him as both of his clawed hands sink into the ground, clutching it, leaving deep furrows as he sags in exhaustion, though he remains protectively hunched over Twila. The grim expression on his face shows slight satisfaction as he witnesses the result of his roar. ..Not exactly what he wanted, but it will do. He taps Twila lightly on the shoulder, then lifts a few fingers, removing one of her special ear pieces, "It's almost.." A sudden snarl cuts him off as Libra suddenly appears, the wail of sound growing louder. Immediately, he places the ear piece back over Twila's ear, wincing himself, his eyes squinting almost shut as the new sound overwhelms him as he remains hunched over the human.

Ok...now Twila is *very* glad she's wearing earplugs and behind a field by now or she would be permanently deaf within mere seconds. Her hands raise protectively over hear ears once again and she falls to her knees. She releases a wince as she looks towards the source of the horrible emotion and inwardly curses.

Eclipse moves back slowly, as if the effort of smashing towards Luna and clobbering her but good took a bit of wind out of him. His entire form shudders for a second, as if struggling to reshape itself.

It's now that Libra makes her...untimely arrival. One can practically -see- the sonic waves tearing through the air as they come in towards Eclipse's huge form, and they strike him square in the back. For a moment, the giant stumbles under the assault, great hands flexing and unflexing helplessly, trying to grab onto something to steady himself. But support for something his size is nonexistent, and with a rumble of truly earthquake proportions, he topples over, smashing into the ground with a great heave of impact.

Seconds pass, and for a moment, Eclipse is immobile, though slowly, he begins to reform again, now flowing up into a standing position once more. Though even now, one can see that he's swaying ever so slightly...showing the effects of that last hit.

Luna gets to her feet, a tad wobbly. "Sister, a bit late, but you could not have had better timing." And she flashes, faster than the eye can see, to the other side of the orb, bow snatched up into her hand, an arrow on it. "The Watcher must Blink," she whispers to herself, an arrow appearing and being nocked. Pulling the string back with one of the odd bending sounds, she aims the arrow toward Eclipse's large, bulbous body, which is akin to her own true form. "Sister, you do know what we must do. What you must do before the Watcher will die."

Silver Mane grabs the ground quickly as the shockwaves go resounding through the earth, making the ground heave and buckle with Eclipse's mighty impact. A deep snarl comes from Silver Mane's muzzle as he remains crouched over Twila almost completely, holding onto the ground to keep from falling on her. Finally, as the shockwave passes, Silver Mane springs to his feet, his silver arms almost a blur of motion as he suddenly starts slashing madly at the wall of force between him and the Stardroids, doing his hardest to break through the wall, to no avail.

The girl's eyes moisten as she continues to watch helplessly. "But all he did..." are the only words which spring from her mouth within a near whisper.

Libra's scream cuts off, and she nods sharply to Artemis. "I do know, dear sister. Do what must be done." Reaching behind her back, Libra draws Grignr, her mighty poleaxe. The tiny gemstone-rose in the blade glitters in the sunlight as the mighty weapon twirls in the petite one's hands. "Eclipse! Watcher! Surrender thine self and thine key! Spare the rod upon thine body - you have no chance."

Silver Mane snarls and slams a fist into the force wall once again, trying with all of his might to get it to shatter in front of him, "No! NO!" His optics flash a bright red color, and a deep seated growl comes rolling out of his muzzle as Silver Mane unleashes an enraged series of blows against the force shield, doing everything he can in an attempt to get to the wounded Stardroid.

Eclipse is by now upright once more, a brief pause in the action giving way. Slowly...he swings his gaze to one side, noting Libra with an eerie measure of calm. His gaze then swings to the other side...noting Luna as well. Another long moment of silence sets in, as if the sudden switch in odds dawn on him, perhaps even that of the most likely outcome for that matter.

And still...he doesn't answer. Instead, he raises his arms up, high above his head, both held rigid...as within the blink of an eye, he suddenly disintegrates, forming into a dozen solid balls, each one easily 4 feet across. Without further hesitation...six of each smash outwards, each moving to pound against the individual zodiac members with concussive force. Regardless of whether they connect or not, they are swift to gather together once more...revealing a staggering form in it's wake...the very effort of dividing his form for the dual attack having been exhausting.

Saturn teleports into the forcefield bubble, looking down at Libra with death in his eyes, "Fools. Stupid silly fools. I have had enough of your rules, your stupid silly rules. The candles will burn out for you, Libra. I will kill you myself scatter your atoms back into the ground and space from whence you came again and again and again and again. Your rules, silly stupid human rules, can't you see the ends which I had in mind? IDIOTS. Following Thoth like little tiny lemmings with no direction. The candles burn out for you Libra, I'll de-rez you and any little stupid Zodiac who gets in my way, you think you know the rules? YOU KNOW NOTHING! NOTHING NOTHING NOTHING NOTHING. The humans... you've heard of karma, you silly little toga girl? With your axe and your ego and your silly stupid fate. Karma... Eclipse will be avenged, and I am his protector. I am the protector of the void and right hand of any god here. I am the last thing you will ever see and only one who will destroy you. But not now, not yet now... oh no, I have seeds to sow and miles to go before I reach your death..."

(Ch. D [Anti-Stardroid]) Crash Man transmits: 'Hah, I think Saturn's on our side now.'.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Plant Man transmits: 'Or, more accurately, /Eclipse's/ side.'.

Twila Peterson takes in a sharp breath, blinking back a tear just as a third Stardroids makes an appearance...

Eclipse stumbles forward another step, reaching out with one hand. Though he manages to stay upright this time. Ironically enough, he's facing directly where both Twila and Silver Mane remain in their imprisonment...gaze settled on both of them. It's then slowly....that he tilts his giant form downwards...as if bowing his head.

And the big, single eye blinks once.

Luna continues to hold the bowstring taut, beginning to walk in a slow circle around Eclipse, booted feet clacking against the ground. However, the attack of the six spheres was unexpected, and the arrow is loosed into the forcefield, disintegrating. She leaps through the air, gracefully over the spheres, doing a few rather gymnastic moves as she does so, landing in a crouch and standing to quickly nock and pull another arrow. At Saturn's outburst, she regards him with a sudden coldness. "Do not threaten such..." she starts, but she's cut off as Eclipse blinks. The arrow is pulled back, and begins to glow, gathering a kaleidoscope of colours flowing up and down the shaft. And with a deafening TWANG! The string is released, the arrow drilling through the air toward Eclipse's blinking eye. She says nothing, still holding the bow and one arm back. She just... watches.

Silver Mane snarls, lucidity flooding back to him as Eclipse turns towards both him and Twila. He watches the large eye blink once, and then sees the arrow go hurtling right at its target. A snarl appears on his silver muzzle as he crouches down around Twila once again, knowing that outside of protecting the human from further harm, there is absolutely nothing else he can do right now.

The girl returns Eclipse's stare until he concedes to his end. But, why? She told him what would happen if---?

Saturn's sudden apperance is enough to distract Libra, allowing Eclipse to pummel her. Already high up and far back, the impact slams her into the force-wall. Never designed for true combat at the level they're on, Libra's body shows the toll instantly. Craters form in her perfect skin, accompanied by the noise of whatever internal parts Stardroids possess shattering. And she manages a cry of pain before one of the small spheres strikes her mouth, knocking out a few teeth.

As they retract and Eclipse reforms, Libra bellows again. Not the same ground-shattering cry as before, but a primal shout of rage. Axe in hand, she streaks forward at the same moment Artemis fires that glowing arrow. Her form blurs and elongates as the Stardroid literally nears Warp speeds, timing it to strike a simultanious death blow. "OPAL AXE! VORPAL..... BLADE!"

The arrow strikes true to it's mark, sinking deep into the big eye and exploding with energy in a brilliant flash. For a few seconds, nothing more happens...though one can see that Eclipse's single eye has turned into a black pit...something that one can't even see into for the darkness contained within it. Lightning crackles then, seeming to come up from the very earth itself and sear at the giant's very body, burning with it's touch wherever it makes contact. Smoke begins to billow upwards, as even here, even now, the Watcher slowly climbs to his feet once more. The reaction to the arrow striking home is far from peaceful...and perhaps rather unexpected. Hands clench into fists one last time...as if contained with power itself, and finally, the mammoth form throws back his entire body, as if a jolt of incredible proportions goes through him.

And with that...he explodes. Not even other Stardroids could ever have anticipated this to happen...destructive force on a level that is only heard of in nightmares is unleashed. To look at it would cause one to close their eyes instantly in pain, as a blinding flash is unleashed, then building up to a rumble that shakes the very foundations of the continental plate below itself. The shockwave follows, then joined by a raging inferno that billows outwards, annihilating everything in it's path. Nothing is spared in it's wake. In the midst of the explosion itself....ground zero, one can easily see the mushroom cloud that has formed and billows upwards, eventually coming into contact with the top of the forcefield, and billowing outwards in response.

And what protects the surrounding countryside from being all but annihilated in the process with the hellish discharge? Why the very forcefield that Luna erected to keep them -inside-....

Within the inferno contained within the countryside, one can see The Huntress let out a scream that never finishes as the explosion washes across her lithe form. And as it washes across her again and again, amidst the flames of what would be a contained nuke, Luna is simply...no more. Whether destroyed or teleported, she is simply NO LONGER THERE.

Silver Mane's optics widen for a brief second, just before Eclipse explodes, as his survival instinct suddenly screams of imminent doom. In the brief moment it takes for the explosion to take place, Silver Mane swoops an arm down, scooping Twila Peterson up and pulling the human in close to his metallic body as he whirls around, facing away from the mushroom cloud explosion within the forcefield. Not knowing whether or not he and the human are about to die, Silver mane drops immediately to his knees after the turn, his body molding around Twila to cushion and protect her as his back forms a smooth shield to take the brunt of the shockwave...that never comes.

And just like her Zodiac sister, Libra is also consciously missing after the explosion. Huh. They're dead? Nah. Can't be. You're all not that lucky.

Hands still around her ears, now more out of an unwillingness to move rather than protection, they suddenly lower and throw themselves against the wall of the field in horror. She opens her mouth to scream, but no sound comes forth. At the moment the killing blow is laid the resulting brightness from the explosion forces Twila to turn away instantly. However, that is when she is taken up by reploid hands and shielded from any harm. After some of the waves die within the inner sphere Twila still doesn't look up. The reploid more than likely would feel the girl trembling extremely heavily within his arms, accompanied by quiet sobs.

Thankully, again, the second field was in place to protect the two unexpected observers for this execution.

And after Eclipse's death throes finish and the resulting display, the field simply... vanishes.

What's left in the wake of where Eclipse was? A crater for one...blackened earth in it's path as well, and gentle trickles of smoke lifting up into the sky as well. And in the center of that crater? Something glowing...an orb of some sort. But it's hard to make out at this distance for that matter......

Night darkens the area within California, the only light source that seems to be in the area is that of the forcefield and the combatants. Dashing into the area, with his beam sabre a blazing is the Colonel, gazing around the area and noticing the horror with in the forcefield.. He notices Twila Peterson and Silver mane within, along with the Stardroid, Eclipse, their Stardroid ally destroyed at the hands of his brethren! His eyes only blink with uncertainty, " Eclipse!! NOOOOOO!!!" The Repliforce XO dashes forward, moving to his radio and sending out transmissions before reaching the base of the forcefield!

Saturn is still in the middle of the field, arms crossed in an X across his face, apparently he was able to shield himself, "A shame. A pity, in fact... so sad that'll have to execute that toga wearing little girl..."

(Ch. D []) Colonel transmits: 'Unified Global Forces! This is the Colonel! We have a priority 1 alert outside the area of San Angeles... Requesting full and all backup! Pronto! ASAP! We have another Battle to wage! For out Ally Eclipse has been destroyed!!!'.

It takes Silver Mane a few long moments to realize that he's not being hurled through the air or obliterated by the explosion at ground zero. Keeping Twila held close against him, Silver Mane reshapes his back to its usual state and peers around behind him, just in time to see the field drop, and the disappearance of the Stardroids present. Quietly, he carries Twila cradled in his arms towards the center of the crater, his red optics picking up the soft glow of the orb. "...Twila. You may want to see this." He speaks quietly, but firmly as he carries the human to the spot of ground zero.

(Ch. D []) Quantum Kitsune transmits: ''Eclipse is on our side. Look, they can be beaten.' THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP, Eclipse! Sheesh!'.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Plant Man transmits: 'Shut. Up.'.

(Ch. D []) Snake Man transmits: 'What'sss going on?'.

Skull Shuttle appears on the horizonline, moving swiftly towards the battle site.

Twila Peterson quiets some of her chockes as she glances up. She blinks back some of her tears as she removes the earplugs that had been given her. Nothing is stated for the longest of time they're halfway to the spot were the execution took place. Tossing the one remaining Stardroid left a pained glance she then chokes out, "What is it?" to the Repliforcer, obviously not half hearing them due to her hearing being dampened.

Saturn drops to the ground and dusts his shoulders off, "Heheheh... well, THAT was fun..." he looks around like nothing had happened except a small fireworks show, "...who's up for Chinese?"

Sure enough, as one draws closer to the huge crater, they can see the orb within. What's left of the database that Eclipse had carried within him for untold time. Cracked and pitted, it's but a shadow of it's former self...and it's a mystery as to whether all the data that he had acquired and endlessly put into it's reserves has been lost forever.

However, the glow still comes from within...and inside the orb, one can still see the key shining brightly, turning gently where it is...hovering perfectly in the center of the orb itself. It's as the others come closer that the sphere finally melts away...leaving the key itself in the wake, hovering in place.

Silver Mane glances upwards at the remaining Stardroid, frowning slightly as Saturn then drops to the ground. He bites back a comment to the Stardroid, and simply continues on towards ground zero, replying to Twila, "I'm not sure. It's an orb of sorts that is just sitting there. Maybe Eclipse left a small, final message for you. Or perhaps for all of us." His tone indicates that he wants to find out...now. And that he intends to. He leaps gracefully into the crater, landing easily on the charred ground, Twila held safely in his large arms. As the sphere melts away, Silver Mane says in an almost hollow voice, though filled with reverence and awe, "...It's a Key. Even better."

Colonel dashes forward into the Battle zone and up towards Silver Mane and Twila Peterson, Sabre in hand and ready to defend if need be. As he approaches, The Repliforce XO calls out to the two survivors, "Ms. Peterson! Silver Mane!". He dashes up next to Twila Peterson and Silver Mane, but he remains silent as he notices the rather large crater in front of himself and the two. No words can explain the emotions going through the Colonel's mind at the current moment.. "What has happened?"

Saturn rubs his chin, "I have business to attend to in other lands, chiao till then..." Saturn has left.

Skull Shuttle comes to a landing nearby the main group, and a worried-looking face peers out of the windshield before departing...

Silver Mane growls slightly, partly in irritation of Colonel's question of the obvious, "Eclipse has sacrificed himself to leave us with a final gift. Let us not squander his sacrifice."

Silver Mane glances over to Plant Man, his optics narrowing sharply for a minute, though he nods at the Master. Turning to look back at Twila, "Indeed, he did. And so, his sacrifice was made willingly because he cared about this planet. We can only hope that we can convince other Stardroids to give us their keys with less drastic results. We shall make the most of his sacrifice."

(Ch. D []) Snake Man transmits: 'Isss my asssissstanssce required?'.

(Ch. D []) Quantum Kitsune transmits: 'Don't think so, Snake ... I think it's all over...'.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Plant Man transmits: 'No.'.

(Ch. D []) Snake Man transmits: 'Oh good. Then I can ssstay here and enjoy my 'dinner''.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Plant Man transmits: '*coldly* Touch any one of the pets, and it'll take a month to put you back together.'.

(Ch. D []) Dr. Pavel Cossack transmits: 'Vhatst he current situation'.

(Ch. D []) Blizzard Man transmits: 'Pets? You mean Moonwalk?'.

(Ch. D [Alliance]) Plant Man transmits: 'Yes. As well as the others there.'.

Colonel hears Silver Mane's every word, despite the rather harsh tone he gave along with the reply. Walking ahead of the two, The Repliforce XO gazes down into the giant crater and lowers his head, leaning upon his sword and remaining in complete silence for moments. Almost as if mourning for the moments he has... As Plant Man appears along side Silver Mane and Twila, The Repliforcer raises his head once more and turns about and replies with a much softer tone, "Indeed... Our measures thus far have been violent in nature, though is that what this world must thrive upon? No." The Colonel sighs deeply and shakes his head, "The Watcher has given his life and his gift to us, let us be able to move on and like Silver Mane has said. Not allow this brave soul's sacrifice to be in vain. Though, Let us have a few moments of silence for out dear friend and ally... May he watch over us with his protective spark."

(Ch. D []) Blizzard Man transmits: 'Snake Man, you touch any of those cats and I'll personally see that the joes ignore your commands...Got it?'.

(Ch. D []) Snake Man transmits: 'I think I'll have sssome feline firssst...'.

The key gives a slight blink as Twila makes contact with it...and then the glow finally diminishes, leaving the golden form itself in it's wake, warm to the touch and nestled safely in Twila's grip.

Twila Peterson clutches the key to her chest then. Pressing her lips together she then adds, "And my brother Rick Morgann too." After cutting herself off she adds, "I need to get back home..." By her voice...it's apparent she's in some form of shock as well.

(Ch. D []) Snake Man transmits: 'I don't command any joesss. I have giant sssnakesss, remember? You can tell them not to obey me if you like, but sssomehow I don't think it'll make much of an impression.'.

Silver Mane scowls in thought, then looks over to Colonel. "Colonel, would you be able to deliver Twila safely back to the Maverick hunter Headquarters? ...I have something that I need to attend to."

(Ch. D []) Blizzard Man transmits: 'Bah. Just leave the cats alone.'.

Twila Peterson mutters, "Just to the teleporters. I'll...be safe from there..."

Silver Mane shakes his head to Twila, "No. Colonel should see you to the base. And he should let Rock know what has happened and speak with him. I may not be a medic, but I can see that you are in -no- condition to do anything but go back, turn in the key and get rest. You will need it now more than ever."

Colonel looks towards Silver mane and replies to him with a polite nod, "Of course, Do what ye have to do..." The Repliforce XO kneels down and extends his hand to Twila, offering it to her, "Allow me to escort you back to Hunter Headquaters. Silver mane is right you are in no condition for this."

Still clutching the key to her rather protectively the girl nods slows and accepts his hand with her free one. "Thanks..." she mumbles with a quiet sigh. "Would...you mind radioing Rick Morgan and Seminole that I'm alright...and I'm headed back?"

Silver Mane releases Twila and stands up, looking at both her and Colonel. He smirks just slightly, "I will take care of it, Colonel. ...I will be in contact soon. Good luck." And with that, Silver Mane turns away, disappearing over the top edge of the crater and into the forest.

Twila Peterson can only mumble a weak, "Thank you," to the unknown reploid as he leaves, never even knowing who he really was.

Colonel nods to Twila, offering her a polite smile, "Of course. Seems my officer will take care of it..." He gazes up towards the Special operations officer with a worried expression across his face as he speeds off, sighing deeply and muttering to himself, "Good luck and Godspeed to you Silver Mane, return swiftly and safely." The Colonel returns his gaze and carefully picks Twila up, cradling her in his arms to try and provide as much comfort as he can. He sighs once again and thinks. .oO(Oh Ms. Peterson the Hell you must have been put through...This war is too much on us all.)Oo. He gazes towards San Angeles and begins to speak, "This should be the quickest way...please hang on tight." With that, he speeds off towards San Angeles at top speed.

From the sky itself... seemingly out of nowhere... a massive beast RIPS into the air with a ROAR of rage! The WilyDragon. But... to late it seems...

Twila Peterson curls herself wearily within the reploid's arms, holding on more tightly to the key than Colonel himself, seeking to keep it it from harm...almost as it had an altogether different meaning for her.

<Soon...>

Command Center <Hunter HQ>

Rick Morgan is already in the command center, awaiting a certain arrival in particular for that matter, hands resting nervously on the chair in front of him.

The Swift sound of the teleporter doors opening, brings attention to nearly all the Hunters within the Command Center. From behind the doors, reveiles the Colonel walking along into the Hunter HQ. The Repliforce XO cradles Twila in his arms, until arriving upon a chair and setting her down within it....

Twila Peterson doesn't mutter much of a sound as the key continues to he held almost as if it were nothing less than a fragile infant. She stares straight ahead for a few moments, almost as if not recognizing where she is. But then finally turns a slow gaze towards the reploid, and then towards her brother.

"Twila...?" Rick says gently, already moving as she's been set down in the chair. He slides around in front, and raises a hand to gently touch her face, his other hand resting on her shoulder, as he gazes worriedly into her eyes. He does take long enough to glance up at Colonel and give a grateful nod however. "Thanks for bringing her..."

Colonel replies to Rick with a polite and acknowledging nod, "She's a bit shook up from tonight's incident. I'm afraid to inform you that our Stardroid ally has...passed on so to speak. Relay this on to the rest of the Hunters, particularly commander X and Dr. Light if you could be so kind...Also have one of them contact me at their earliest convenience." The Repliforce XO takes a quick glance down at the traumatized Twila Peterson and shakes his head, driving the thought from his mind. He sighs deeply and turns back to Rick. "She holds the key of our departed ally. I shall trust her with it for now. Seeming that she has made some sort of...contact with it. Yet, with that information departed. I shall take my leave, keep us informed on her condition please."

The girl looks upwards, her bluish-green orbs appearing somewhat hollow right now as she merely gazes back towards her sibling. No true response is given at the contact, neither by facial expression or body movement. After a small blink she glances back down towards the floor before rising up to her feet. With the key still within her grasp she slides herself free of Rick's touch and turns towards the lift. "He...gave me the key..." she tones heavily, and then takes a step forward.

Rick Morgan just blinks as she slips away towards the lift, sparing a glance in Colonel's direction, and giving a slow nod. "We'll see that it does..." he offers. "And I'll keep you updated. Thanks again..." He then steps after his sister, reaching out to touch her arm again with one hand. "Twila...." he says gently.

Twila Peterson hesitates before she takes another step forward. "Yes, Rick?"

Colonel bows deeply and takes his leave to the teleporters.

Rick Morgan pauses, meeting her gaze with his own, and blinking once. "You...gonna be ok?" He offers gently. He can tell that there's more than meets the eye here of course...he can just -feel- it deep down. Though how to properly approach it is another matter altogether.

Twila Peterson trembles slightly underneath the additional touch even as the gaze is returned. "I---," she begins, but trails off. She changes her mind on what she was about to state and instead mumbles, "I...need to get some rest. Night, Rick..." She's then once more free from his touch she heads towards the lift and steps inside. The doors move to close. But as they do, only a haunted look is seen peering back towards the man. Then...it is gone.

Rick Morgan's fingers curl faintly on thin air...as he watches helplessly as Twila moves off on her own, face set into that worried gaze that he gives right back. "G'night..." he all but whispers as the doors close. Only then does he allow his hand to drape at his side limply....and he tilts his head down slightly.

.oO(Oh man...)Oo.