Megaman - Tuesday, December 19, 2000, 7:04 PM
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============================== Maverick Hunter ===============================
Message: 10/55 Posted Author
Report Tue Dec 19 Michael Eildath
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Just what the heck is going on here? Dawn walks in with Feedback and Ice Unicorn, and now she tells me she quits. I suppose you'll just have to wait for Ice or Feedback to report to hear what happened... I wasn't there, but what I did hear is already making me pretty freakin' ******* off. We're supposed to be the heroes, people. I didn't sign on here to spend long hours watching the Mavericks and the Robot Masters tearing ass through whatever city they deign to attack while my comrades mouth off to them while they destroy the very people we're trying to protect! We're not comic book characters, we can't take time to mouth off to the enemy, because they may just take the opportunity to wreak some other havoc on the innocent. If I hear of /anyone/, I don't care who, not stopping the enemy when they have the chance, or God forbid losing the very people we're supposed to protect as part of your game plan, you're gonna answer to me /personally/. I've already lost a brother because I didn't get rid of Losstaret when the opportunity presented itself, and I'm not about to sit here and play good little human when we just may be losing a Hunter, too.
Eildath out.
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Message: 10/56 Posted Author
Addendum Tue Dec 19 Michael Eildath
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Rock, I'd like to speak with you about this as soon as possible, concerning the actions that provoked Dawn's outburst last night. I don't like what I've been hearing about my fellow Hunters, and I'd like to discuss it with you, as well as Dawn's feelings, since she's not in the base right now.
As for the members of Phoenixflame squadron, if I hear of /ANY/ recruit provoking a fight with the Robot Masters or Mavericks, you are going to have hell to pay. We are the Maverick Hunters, not a bunch of testosterone jockeys out to prove we're better than everyone else. I'd like to thing we're bigger than that.
Eildath out.
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============================== Maverick Hunter ===============================
Message: 10/57 Posted Author
Mon. Night Tue Dec 19 Twila Peterson
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As soon as possible can someone post regarding the activities within Hong Kong...especially regarding as to what began it -- including some actions from certain parties? I think there are some extremely important issues Dawn and Mike raised.
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Message: 10/58 Posted Author
Hong Kong Report Tue Dec 19 Seminole
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"From what I gathered from the radio, Dischord apparently started an anti-Robot Master rally in the Hong Kong park. Bad idea for two reasons: One, Hunters aren't supposed to incite rallies which can easily turn into riots. Two, the Masters interfered. Fire Man apparently shot at the crowd, and it broke down into panic. Ice Unicorn, Feedback, Spark Hyena, Engima Ermine and Dawn got the civilians to safety. Ground Man, who Protoman engaged, Magic Man and Bass arrived afterward. Magic Man was dealt with by Dawn, and Bass was drawn into conflict with Dischord. After she was serverely injured, I took her back to Hunter HQ. From what I gathered afterward, Feedback was attacked by Bass, and Ice Unicorn was engaged by Bit. I'm unsure of the details after that, but I believe they all made it back to the Labs. Seminole, out."
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(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Status report?'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Same as it was last time.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Well...as long as it's quited a bit since last night. What...happened? I arrived on the scene but I was too busy aiding the civilians to know much of what was going on...'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Do you really want to hear my side of this?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Actually...you seemed one of the sane ones from last night. But maybe this should be switched over to tightbeam transmission.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Maybe.'.
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yeah?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "I remember overhearig on chan that Dischord and Feedback had a hand in what happened..."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "They did. They intentionally started that whole stupid mess..."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "How?"
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Check the news. They started that whole stupid riot, chanting 'Death to Wily!' and stuff about how he feared everyone, that he wouldn't harm them for opposing him...guess what?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Have a feeling I don't have to guess far. They should no better. *Of course* any Master who knew of the rally will come to defend their "father"."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "What happened was Fire Man started 'liberating' them just after Dischord said that they'd still win even if Wily hurt them, that they'd be liberated from his grip. Feedback and Dischord just kept fueling the rally with holograms and shouting while the crowd burned.."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "..............."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Now *that* I remember hearing on the radio as well...at least the exclaimations. Civilian's lives are the priority...not viewpoints."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "That's what I thought. But it's funny how veteran soldiers, such /amazing/ heroes, are turning into, like, politicians. I ended up having to jump in and take care of Fire myself."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "*sigh* Even some heros can fall from grace. Rock's definately not going to be happy when he gains the full story of this. And neither are some of the other Hunters either...like Mike. Saw Mike's report."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Mike's report?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Yeah. He posted and he was pretty upset after he heard about last night and all. No one filed a report on Hong Kong as of yet. But sounds as if the main info is had now."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I'm not surprised, really. Mike actually cares."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Not at this time I don't think. I do request that you rethink over quitting, however. The majority of Hunters would heavily disagree with Dischord's and Feedback's activities last night...as well as lack of concern for civilians."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Would they? X did pretty much the same thing those two did, back in Egypt..."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Egypt? Was that regarding the post about him needing information?"
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yeah."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "I...don't know what to say. What happened that wasn't within the report?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Have you discussed this with him in private or sent him a personal message? He's not usually as...careless."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I did. He said it was a mistake he wouldn't repeat again. And he didn't. Others did it for him. Like I told Mike, I'm not interested in being proactive in hurting folks like that. Both of those fights were completely unnecessary..."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Everyone has to be responsible for their own actions. People mess up sometimes. And at times that can be a really big mess up. I'm not excusing them by any means because putting lives in danger unneccesarily is a rather large danger. It's up to everyone here to hold everyone else accountable for their actions."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So...what're you saying?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "I'm just requesting...help hold Dischord and Feedback accountable for their actions just as you would probably want us to hold you for yours, like I would want you to hold me accountable. Would you reconsider your choice of leaving?"
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Will they actually be held accountable? Feedback seems like he's above the law."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Won't know unless it's tried. There are few here at the labs who "place on a false face". In other words, they put on an act. Sometimes it's hard to tell when one's getting through or not."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Huh. Well...I wouldn't know about that."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Meaning, Feedback acts certain ways...but it doesn't mean he actually looks at himself as "above the law"...It just looks that way."
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "...I don't believe it. He's always just belittling everyone. Then he does /that/ little stunt!"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Lately, yeah. Several months ago he wasn't. And he seems to always act that way around new recruits."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Dawn: "Dawn, whatever choice you decide...take care out there ok?"
Dawn sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Right."
Command Center <Hunter HQ>
Twila Peterson offers the seven foot reploid a small wave as she looks up from the screen. "Hey."
Zero smiles at Twila and waves back, "Hey, Twi. What's up?"
Twila leans back a little in her seat. "Just the usual. Pretty quiet out there from what I can tell. Least, bit quieter from what happened last night anyway." Although, the past few days were a bit busy as well. "You?"
Zero shrugs, "Just been taking care of some personal emotional baggage, more or less."
Zero smirks and looks away for a bit, "Yeah." he says softly, before standing up, "So it's been pretty busy lately huh?" he says, changing the subject slightly, "I'm sure Rock's still pretty pissed at me too, oh well, sooner or later he'll realize what I was trying to tell him was right, and he was wrong for once."
Twila perks her eyebrow at thta. "About what?"
Zero shrugs, "The thing concerning those Striders."
Twila Peterson blinksblinks. "What about them? So far they seemed good allies."
Zero shrugs, "So far." He walks over to the door to the gravlift and presses the button, "But I don't trust them, nor will I ever. Something doesn't rub me the right way about them."
The young woman straightens up somewhat. "You...have an inkling with what that something is? I know they're mercenaries. But they seem to fight for the same cause we do. They're just...funded differently."
Zero snorts, "They work for the highest bidder. I know their type, Twila. Because I used to be just like them. And when it comes down to it, it'll be the money that makes the decisions, not what's right, and what's wrong." With that, he steps into the gravlift, the doors sliding shut behind him.
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yeah, I've been doing some research into it with my connections on the street, but they're pretty damn secretive about their background."
(Ch. B []) Zero transmits: 'I'm going on patrol, if you need me, just hollar.'.
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "Perhaps. But not everyone at the Hunters are open about their backgrounds either."
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yeah, I know."
Twila Peterson is currently at the terminal, working on something or other.
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "So...why the double standard?"
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "*shrug* I don't care if they're secretive or not, I just want to know what they're up to. I don't see any reason for us to trust them."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "Trust is earned. Can't fault for that."
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Exactly, and in my opinion, getting yourself killed in front of Rock doesn't inspire trust.
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "In your opinion."
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yeah, I guess."
Seminole walks out of the teleporters, phasing out of his armor and back into his normal uniform. He doesn't seem too happy, apparently having read the previous reports. Sem perks up a bit as he notices Twila, and gives her a slight nod. "Hey Twila."
Twila Peterson looks up from some transmissions, offering a brief sigh to them, then glance towards Sem. "Hey, how goes?"
Seminole slides into his seat, shrugging indifferently to Twila's question. "Not that well, it seems. You?"
Twila creases her brow, having a feeling he would have said that. "I talked with Dawn via radio. I have no idea if she's still thinking of quitting or not. But I did ask to help keeping fellow Hunters accountable just as she would want others to do the same for her."
She adds belatedly, "Can understand why she's so upset tho."
Seminole nods a little to Twila, grinning weakly. "Thanks anyway.. I sure can use the help dealing with all these new Hunters," he says, expression reverting back to a frown. "So can I. It feels like we're coming apart at the seams lately."
The girl shakes her head gently. "It does. Could be the sudden rise in activity after a lull. But I somehow doubt it. Almost as if ther are those of us feeling like something has to be proven instead of just doing our jobs."
Seminole nods back to Twila, leaning back in his chair. He thinks for a few moments, idly crossing his arms over his chest. "We'll have to change that, then.." he says quietly, a bit lost in thought.
Michael Eildath strides into the area, trenchcoat whipping around.
"Agreed," she returns. "Although how?" Dicipline usually works. But she hasn't seen it all too often. The again, LiT's been in the energy field in medbay for how many months now for questioning orders? She pauses as she overhears footsteps coming from one of the enterances and gives a small wave. "Hey, Mike.
Twila, tho, does a double-take. "....................."
-============================== Michael Eildath ===============================-
The man before you is quite striking at first glance. Approximately six feet from head to toe, he looks thin and strong, yet not overly muscular. Clad in a light powersuit, he's ready for action.
Heavy armored boots start his outfit, the bottom of each armorsuit leg fitted into them, jet black and thickened with armor, though not so thick as to make him look bulked-up. Bound across the waist by an ammo-filled belt, an old-model police special dangles from his right hip, a laser pistol from the left.
His powersuit top is black, featureless aside from the Maverick Hunter insignia on the right breast. Over it, he wears a trenchcoat, black, as is his preference, typically open, whipping about in the wind as dramatically as possible, the coat lined with a thin layer of Neo-Kevlar. His hands are gloved in black, lightly armored so he doesn't impede his manual dexterity. A wrist chrono adorns his right powersuit wrist, a status monitor on the left.
Michael smiles out at the world through blue-green eyes covered by dark sunglasses, a his face dangerously pale, a neutral expression generally held on his unmarred face, though under his glasses his eyes bear the discoloration that comes from sleeplessness. His hair is short, a medium brown color, and covers his head in an unruly mess, the only unarmored part of his body. This is Michael Eildath, pilot and pyrotechnics expert, and one of the few humans on the roster of the Maverick Hunters.
-================== http://sac.uky.edu/~elclin0/eildath2.jpg ==================-
Michael Eildath striders in, taking a seat. "Hey guys... you seen the boss around anywhere?"
Seminole returns to reality after a few moments, after noticing Mike enter. He turns to greet his XO, raising an eyebrow at his particular attire. "Hey Mike.." hey says slowly, then shakes off the initial surprise. "Not today, Mike," Sem answers, then looks back at Twila, "It's a little tricky. Nobody's being forced to stay here.. If they don't like how things are run, they can go. But usually, something can be worked out."
Twila nods towards Seminole slowly in acknowledgment, hoping that's so. She then turns to her fellow human. "Not recently. He's probably out on patrol at the moment I would wager."
Michael Eildath nods. "Right."
Seminole looks curiously over at Mike, though not for his Goth clothing. "What were you planning to say to him, Mike?" Sem asks, having more than a few of the same concerns that his XO does.
Twila Peterson offers, "He knows of your need to speak with him. So that should help." I hope. She quiets as the question is asked however.
Fugue walks slowly into the command center, staff across her shoulders and arms wrapped around the staff in a relaxed manner. She grins and switches the staff to one hand as she waves with the other toward those in the command center and calls brightly, "Hiya!"
Michael Eildath shakes his head. "I don't know, Seminole." He looks at the floor. "But innocent people got hurt last night because of the Maverick Hunters, and I'll be damned if I'm gonna sit here and let that just get tossed aside."
Twila Peterson looks towards Mike. "Some of us weren't planning on letting it get tossed aside."
Seminole is sitting at one of the Hunter computer stations, listening to Mike. He nods a little, brow furrowing at Mike's statement. Sem can't help but feel partially responsible for it. Burden of command, and all. "Nobody was," he adds, looking over at Fugue as she enters. "Hi... Fugue, right?"
Fugue nods toward Seminole, "Yep!" She leans slightly on her staff and glances at the various expressions in the room. "Bummed about the whole Hong Kong thing, I take it..."
Michael Eildath nods, looking away, not making eye contact with people in the room. "Kinda."
"One word for it," Twila remarks awkwardly.
Seminole glances at Mike and Twila, then looks back at Fugue and nods in reply. "Among other things."
Fugue nods slowly, "Thought so." She briefly ponders saying something encouraging like 'Don't let it get you down!' or 'It's not your fault!' but quickly dismisses the idea. They don't quite look like they want cheering up at the moment. "Er, well... there weren't too many casualties, were there?"
Michael Eildath shrugs. "I dunno. Feedback and Dischord haven't reported their side of it yet."
Seminole looks over at Mike. "Possibly because several of their components are scattered around Hong Kong." The officer slowly rises from his chair, looking around the room once more before heading toward the gravlift. "Anyway, I have some other stuff to take care of, see you all tomorrow."
Michael Eildath nods. "Later, sir."
"Well, from what I saw of it, most was due to incidents that happened within the crowd itself due to the panic. There weren't many that were too serious however," Twila states with a small shrug. She then nods towards Sem, "Take care."
Fugue nods at Seminole, "Night." She glances toward the two humans and shrugs, "Well, we've done all we can do, right?"
Michael Eildath nods... "Except to undo the damage our own less-sensible members are doing."
(Ch. B [Backup]) Sonata transmits: 'Sonata reporting in; I'm heading to China with Jet Stingray, that okay?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Unless one of the officers state otherwise...'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'No arguments here.'.
"Which will take some time," Twila comments while shifting her weight. "And that won't take place until actions speak for us. More than talk would ever do anyway. Although, in the meantime the less-sensible will need to learn to be more sensible."
Michael Eildath nods.
(Ch. B [Backup]) Sonata transmits: ''firmative'.
(Ch. B [Backup]) Sonata transmits: 'Sonata out'.
Fugue nods, "Umm.. hope I'm not out of place by asking, but who's in charge of teaching said less-sensible people to be more sensible?"
Protoman ports into the back of the room, moving to lean up against the wall.
Michael Eildath shrugs. "That's what we're gonna find out."
"Regardless...I would think it's up to all of us to hold one another accountable...at least," Twila states openly.
Fugue hmms and nods, "I agree." She hasn't noticed the arrival of the scarfed one yet.
Protoman shrugs. "Speaking one's thoughts is hardly a punishable crime."
Twila Peterson turns towards Proto. "But speaking them when innocent people are being hurt..."
Michael Eildath turns. . o O (Great. Captain Afthole's here to mix it up.) He sighs. "Speaking is not but..." he blinks at Twila. "Yeah, running your mouth when all it's doing is getting people hurt is irresponsible and wrong."
-Ting-
The Grav Lift opens with it's usual swiftness, and from it steps none other then the one... the only...
Mega Man.
He blinks, noting those who are within the Commander center with each a glance of sapphire blues. He pauses, only catching the tail end of this conversation. His face sets to a firmer cast. He has read and listened to the reports.
Protoman remains stoically in his place, peering at the other gathered hunters. "You would rather those humans stay where they were then? Cower in fear of the Robot Masters? Huddle in hopes that something was gonna make it all better? The rally was a showing that they had a voice... a right. If you seek to put that down, you are no better than Wily."
Fugue blinks and turns to look over her shoulder. "Protoman!" She breaks into a grin and waves, "Hi there! I don't think we've met yet." She turns another few degrees as the blue one arrives, "And Mega Man, hi to you too!" Isn't she just cheery enough to rot your teeth? She turns more serious quickly though, "Yeah, but... if we're instigating the rally, then that means we had a hand in causing all that stuff."
Twila Peterson nods to Rock's entrance but refocuses on Blues. "Who said anything about being against Wily or expressing it was wrong? The fact was they continued on even after the crowd was fired on and the Masters made themselves present."
Michael Eildath frowns. "I'm not, Protoman," he pauses. "But from what I heard, Dischord and Feedback were inciting a furor just to draw out some Masters to fight. I don't want people huddling in fear, but nor do I want them being drawn in the line of fire because we're making asses of ourselves on public television." He pauses, blinking as Mega walks in.
<Global News Network> This just in.. The former President of South Africa, the nation now governed by Reploid Leader Pascal, Donald Clark is reported to be holding a fund-raiser off the coast of the country he once led. It appears he is raising money for a reelection campaign, drawing from similar anti-reploid financial backers as former secretary-general candidate Marvin Thackery. However, what may or may not a distress signal from Clark's personal cruise-liner was recently broadcast across the universal broadband wave. It seems a Maverick attack is likely, our military experts speculate, since their motivation would be strongest. More reports on this story as it develops.
(Ch. C [None]) Quire transmits: 'Freakin' great. Which one of you is gonna
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'I'm on it.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'How about I just kill him? And end all of this pointless crap. Sound good?'.
(Ch. C [None]) Quire transmits: 'Which him? There's so many to choose from.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'I don't care, pick one, I feel like killing something anyhow.'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'We can't act in haste, lest chaos result. Remember that, Hunter Zero.'.
(Ch. C [None]) Quire transmits: 'But that's not our way... blah, blah, blah... I can't even sell myself.'.
The Blue Bomber pauses, turning sapphire blues to his brother to regard him. "I would rather humans live as they will, free of all fear of Robot Master or Maverick. As for what is going to make it better, /we/ are going to make it better. The people will live and be safe, if we are there to protect them. /We/ will protect them. They will rise up and fight when they can and will... we cant /make/ them rise up. In a fight for freedom... many die... a great many... and the only way they can fight is if they can understand what it is they are actually fighting for."
Rock only shakes his head, then looks to Mike, nodding slowly... "Rallies... What Feedback and Dischord did was a /very/ big mistake. A very big mistake. It makes us look bad, and more importantly, it got a great many people hurt."
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'We can't act in haste, nyah nyah nyah... whatever Replidork.'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'I would like to remind you, we are allies.'.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'Don't wanna touch off another riot. /If/ it's unavoidable, alright. But c'mon, shooting it out around someone who's callin' us murderers is only gonna prove 'im right.'.
Protoman shakes his head, placing one foot up against the wall to prop himself. The Hunter is about to respond to Twila when Rock steps in, and Protoman just sighs. "You're as naive and useless as usual, Rock." As for Fugue, well, he's just gonna ignore her and hope she goes away.
Fugue taps the side of her head and blinks at the radio chatter. She glances toward Mike, then toward Rock. "Should we, umm, you know?" And no, she doesn't go away when ignored. Just you wait, mwahaha.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'Maybe he is.'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'We are also organizations of life preservation, not killing.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'Since we came to be, our race, our people, what have we caused? Conflict, war, death.'.
(Ch. C [None]) Quire transmits: 'I think the Mavericks are gonna be the ones doing the shooting.'.
(Ch. C [Twila]) Rock transmits: 'Zero. People Skills. Get them. And oh, pleasant. What is the current situation? I am getting distress flashes from several locations.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'Why don't you piss off Rock, at least I don't invite the enemy in for tea. But whatever.'.
(Ch. C [None]) Quire transmits: 'Trouble in China, trouble near South Africa, trouble... in a buncha places, I think.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'I've got a big black finheaded moron of a brother to find anyhow.'.
"Was an opening for trouble," the young woman agrees. At Blues' putdown she withholds an eyeroll as well as a sigh. She does the same when she overhears the broadband...only not withholding. "He ever hear of taking disagreements in private?"
Fugue smirks toward Twila, "Apparently not." She shifts her weight a bit. "I can fly... should I head over to the situation off Africa?"
Protoman snorts at his radio, and then blinks off.
The Blue Bomber pauses, getting the information as the GNN flashes through his mind, He sighs softly. "Bro. Looks like we have work to do." Rock then looks to Fugue, nodding. "Sorry, Fugue. Good to see you to. And yes." Rock looks to Mike then... studying him for a moment... "Mike... you ready to lend a hand?"
Michael Eildath nods. "Yes. Where?"
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "Least you can do is be upset with Rock in private instead of airing out laundry"
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Well, he's gotta learn somehow. And taking it to him in private didn't seem to work."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "You can't force someone's mind for him. How would you like one of your subordinates degrading you ona public channel?"
Zero sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I expect it, it happens quite often actually."
You send a tightbeam radio transmission to Zero: "Doesn't mean you have to do the same."
Twila Peterson then turns around after firing a few transmissions. "What of me?"
Fugue moves toward the teleporters, "I'll keep you all updated once I get there."
The Blue Bomber pauses, walking over to the screens swiftly, running them over the controls. He notes the vanishing of his Brother... but he knows him better then that. "South Africa... China... And this new report of a Maverick attack. I will head there. I will need some backup."
Rock sighs as Fugue runs off, then looks to Twila. "I will need your help too. Things are getting dicey. Attacks all over the place..."
Twila Peterson is already up and getting on her gear ...which measures to about a protective "suit" as well as a headset when the words are barely out of her mouth, happy for the first time in a while that he not exactly forcing her to sit on the sidelines this time. She's dressed in less time it takes to tell and nods while putting on her gloves. "Where to exactly?"
Michael Eildath spins, heading to the bay.
Rock runs his hands over a terminal, the information flashing up onto it. "Southeastern Atlantic from the looks. Come one. Mike. I need you too. We will take the Vorpal."
<Soon...after the Vorpal has loaded and taken off...>
Outside> Southeastern Atlantic Ocean
Outside> Neon Tiger dives from the side of the ship, landing in the water somewhat gracefully. A net bag is attached to her back, visible but for a few seconds before she goes underwater, not surfacing.
Outside> Fugue narrows her eyes as she alters her course slightly to aim for the large man near Reaper. She narrows her eyes and gets ready to grab him as soon as she's close enough... either way, she's pretty sure this is going to wind up hurting.
Outside> Wheel Gator glances over his shoulder, optics flaring alight and his expression breaking into a huge gator-grin. "Live 'uns! Feeding time!" He spins around and charges forward into the group of humans, his head low to the ground and his mouth wide open, the slow ones passing straight down his open maw, and his huge fangs shredding any people who didn't quite make it.
Outside> The door of the Nautilus opens wide, the form of the tall, lanky, purple maverick with sweeping armo stepping onto the deck. His feet turning into a blur, he makes a great leap onto the former president's ship, as his feet land by the bodies of the inert humans. He pulls out the gray, lifeless cyliner that is the hilt of his blade, and squeezing he ignites it, the red, curved energy blade crackling hungrily and illuminating his optics and gleaming grin to the color of blood. "It's feeding time!"
The Blue Bomber rode in this trip with a deliberate air of concern, his eyes narrowed. "Mike... When we get there... start using the Vorpal to get everyone out of there. I will go down with Rush and Beat... I think this is going to be a long night." Rock looks to Twila, nodding. "We will need you to tend to the injured, and keep the Vorpal aloft when we go out, Twi. You up for it?"
Outside> Warp Raven continues to fly overhead of Wheel. Warp just continues to herd the few that didn't fall to the gas, and begins picking off the occasional human missed by Wheel Gator with a blast of Plasma here, a few razor-feathers there...
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: '...Something tells me...ugh. That's sick...'.
(Ch. C [Twila]) Rock transmits: 'Stay Frosty, people. We are on the job.'.
(Ch. C [None]) Fugue transmits: 'Frosty.. frosty.. I'm just glad I missed lunch today.'.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'How can you /say/ that? People're getting dumped into the water left and right...'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'Keep tabs on your XO, Mega Man.'.
(Ch. C []) Zero transmits: 'What's that supposed to mean?'.
(Ch. C [Phoenixflame]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Get them into the Vorpal, if you can. We're coming to deal with the source.'.
Michael Eildath twitches. "That's it... freakin' Mavericks." He flips a few switches, fixing the Vorp in an Autopilot hover routine, and runs back towards the Behemoth.
Twila Peterson offers a dip of the chin. Only... "Only if the Vorpal is set on Automatic." She was never taught how to *fly* the thing...or tend to controls other than the comm.
Michael Eildath says, "It's set."
Rock looks to Twila, nodding and offering a comforting smile.
Outside> Bit is still escorting the other reploids away fromt he scene. He nods, "Move along...we're here to free our brothers and sisters...these Reploid-hating humans shall be delt with." He nods, dashing around to make his way through the area to search for more Reploids to get into safety
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> hovers down by the deck, so that people can get on it, if need be.
Outside> Wildfire Phoenix starts jogging slightly, using her rail gun to 'unlock' any locked doors. Finally she finds a room with a single reploid inside, she quickly motions, "C'mon were getting ya outta here!" she calls before moving away. The reploid nods and quickly follows the phoenix back to the deck.
Outside> The pudgy politician shrieks at the tops of his lungs as the dark creature moves ever closer. The monster intones, "Now is your time to stand trial for your crimes against the reploid race. I pronounce you guilty. Your sentence is to know pain beyond the limit of comprehension, pain greater than any living being has suffered before." Clark screams, a stain spread across the front of his richly tailored pants. He draws a laser pistol and fires it repeatedly into the black shroud that looms before him. The creature is unfazed, a pair of bolts streaking from its eye-sockets. They melt the weapon, along with Clark's hand at the wrist, the mass of fused metal and ruined flesh falling to the deck. The fat man screams, twisting in agony. The Reaper effortlessly backhands him, sending the former President plummeting towards the dark waters, crashing up to meet him. "Our business is almost concluded here, Mavericks." The Reaper turns, his voice rising in a terrible command, "KILL THEM ALL!!!"
Twila Peterson starts moving herself in position to get the First Aid items prepped. But before she does so she tosses him a mock salute. "Take care out there. And Godspeed."
Outside> Maverick Hunter VTOL <Vorpal> hovers down by the deck, so that people can get on it, if need be.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> drops out the back of the Vorpal.
Outside> Kill them all? I dont /THINK/ so... From the sky indeed the Vorpal hovers down and near the deck, looming there. even as the cargo bay door opens... unleashing figures to aid and protect.
Outside> Dawn lands on the ship's deck even as the Reaper backhands the politician into the water. "This...this sucks..." She looks around, trying to find any humans nearby, particularly any that might be getting attacked by Mavericks right now. "This is /enough/! Stop it, you're only proving these people right by doing this!"
Outside> Fugue immediately dives down to scoop up Clark from the water, "Hiya, hon. Looks like you've had a tough day." A cannon pops up on her arm and glows red for a moment before firing a beam onto the politician's wrist to cauterize it. It's the best she can do for now...
Firestorm Phoenix escorts several reploids out from below deck, quickly making sure they get to safety. It would seem his first priority is to insure the safety of his fellow reploids.
Yes, the Samurai is doing his job, escorting the people away. He then takes notice towards the huge being near by, peering towards it. He looks up towards Sigma. "Yes sir....all of the reploids are sent away..." He nods, beginning to walk towards one of the humans slowly, extending the blade to flicker out, nodding. "Humans..."
Protoman appears ontop of the Vorpal... yup, waiting to do his thing and kick some aft.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'There's a lot of folks under the water...I can't swim, anyone else able to get to them?'.
Neon Tiger's armour might be seen from above... the Maverick feline swims under the boat, planting some sort of object on the ship's hull.
From the Vorpal on high comes a swift, decending figure... launching through the night on the back of a crimson hoverboard. A figure of brilliant, shimmering blue.
Mega Man.
The Super Fighting Robot!
At his side launches another smaller figure, a blue birdbot that cuts through the air as fast as the Blue Bomber flies... they launching themselves down for the Deck of the ship. And there... a... Reaper? Strange. This one is new. X narrows his eyes, launching for the Reaper himself. "HEY! UGLY! Lets Dance!"
The Blue Bomber's arm left raises foward, the hand dislocating and slipping within even as the Buster Barrel extends... and a burst of Superheated Plasma flies for the one who just smacked the former president from his own boat.
Twila Peterson stands near the opening to the Vorpal, on the ramp to help guide any inside who need so. When injuries start appearing more than minor she'll more than likely have the well help in directing survivors while she tends to the more severe cases.
(Ch. C [Non]) Jet Stingray transmits: 'I could if I wasn't held up in China... A stupid tin can is trying steal a coffin.'.
Wheel Gator suddenly stops short, his optics narrowing grimly as he finally notices the Hunter hovercraft nearby, evacuating humans and releasing ... Hunters! Snarling with rage, he shouts to the others, "Hunters on the starboard! Deal with them, NOW!!" Not caring if his troops are responding yet, he leads by example, swiftly snaking up the side of the Vorpal and snapping his huge hydraulic-enhanced jaws at Protoman
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'Situation in Congo resolved. I could bring a Repliforce submarine to the area, but it would take much too long to arrive.'.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'The Hunters have it. ...I think.'.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> drops from the Behemoth, moving onto the deck with a scowl on the face of the obviously human pilot. "Away from the civilians, Mavericks," he says, voice dark, narrowing his eyes at the Samurai. "Or else."
Fugue quickly dumps Clark off in the Vorpal, bobbing up quickly as the excess weight is released. "Reaper melted his hand off, I tried to cauterize it," she calls to Twila, before flying back out to scoop some more from the water.
Dawn clenches fists now, fire gathering around her hands. "I said that's enough!" As other Hunters arrive, she adds, "Get out of here, Mavericks. Or you're going straight into the ocean!" Already, she scans around to find anyone nearby to try and do just that to.
The eyes then takes a glance up towards the Maverick Armor. He lets the sound of the music tingle through his background. He takes a sudden notice towards Bahemoth,scolding him. He peers towards the human. "......Iie..." Translated, No. He then lets his blade materialize within his arm, holding the plasma blade to materialize. He stands out as he looks to the Behemoth. He gives out a bow, nodding. "I shall send you to rest in peace.."
Agile is busy sweeping his scimitar through the helpless inept bodies below him. Red splashes the deck until it matches the color of his scimitar, his grin continuing to hold as he sees the hunters arive on board the ship, hearing the words of the one in the ride armo he exclaims, "I'm sorry, I couldn't quite hear you. What was that?" And with that he dives the blade deep into another victims shoulder blades. Gargled breath and sound comes out for just a moment as the suddenly away before going to sleep one more.
Firestorm Phoenix after escorting what seems to be the last reploids he could find, just intime to hear Wheel's bellow. FLying up he notices Protoman and Wheel Gator, "I think he could use some help." With that he kicks in his jets and barrels head long at Protoman.
Warp Raven grins as Wheel leads the way. Turning in mid-air, the avian Maverick begins diving towards Protoman, coming in for the assist. "Right. Engaging!" he tells Wheel, as he flings a few flechette-like feathers at the grey and red clad hunter.
Fugue fishes out another pair of unconscious humans from the water. She lays them in the Vorpal as gently as possible before diving back down to search for more in the waves.
Meanwhile, the humans left conscious on the boat's deck begin to rush in a panic toward the awaiting safety of the Vorpal.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> narrows his eyes. "You know, Maverick, I seriously doubt that." The Behemoth tenses, then charges the Maverick, paddle arms held like lances in front of it.
The Reaper roars as Clark is snatched from his icy grave by a handy-flying Hunter. The enraged horror sends a few energy shots in Fugue's general direction, the air burning in the wake of the blasts. The creature lowers its hands, hearing Rock's taunt and the whistle of a plasma blast. The creature turns with no indication of moving. A forcefield forms around its right hand, glowing brightly. As the blast draws close, the monster simply backhands it, swatting the destructive energy away as a man swats a gnat. The Reaper rumbles, in a ton of quiet menace, "You're out of your league, X. You defend these insects who have bloodied their hands with the enslaved corpses of our brethren. I have been sent to exterminate them. Lord Sigma's hand reaches out to crush these pathetic creatures, and now you shall share their fate, traitor. Now your comrade's will watch as you die!"
The Reaper blinks out of existence. It reappears before the Hunter commander charging forward, fist raised.. and passing through the hero. A second one appears to the right, also on the attack, then one behind, the one on the left. The multiple phantom Reapers swarm rock with a confusing flurry of non-corporeal assaults. Finally the real monster, indistinguishable from his holograms, appears directly before Mega Man and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks. High jabs, fists to the gut, an uppercut, a whirlwind of kicks, finishing with a double-handed hammer fist that descends towards Rock's helmet with enough force to send him crashing into the ocean if it connects. "Now they will know the wrath of the whirlwind that has been let loose upon this world."
Protoman hears the battle cry, glaring at Wheel as he makes his way up the side of the VTOL. .oO(Great...)Oo. Then comes the swarm of other Mavericks. Protoman manages to avoid the first two attacks, but the third... that hurts. The flechettes rip into his arm, leaving little cut marks. .oO(Even better.)Oo. With a shimmering of light, Proto's armor shifts into a lavender color. Yes, folks, it looks pretty gay, but that's ok. Out of thin air, laser painted targeting reticles appear around the Mavericks. Where from? Blues' Buster, of course. 3 diffrent colored lasers shoot out from Proto's weapon, streaking towards the target locked Mavericks.
Twila Peterson manages to grab one of those feeling humans by the shoulder. "You and you," she calmly states as she points, "Have just been volunteered to help as orderlies with the unconscious. Lay them where there's space."
While one of them mentally debates, the other one gawks, "You...you're human!" the sandy haired man of 48 blurts.
"Good guess..." is the girl's only reply as she moves to help the unconscious on board. "Well...what are you waiting for?" she asks.
The man and his companion then move to help, aiding to carry those who can't fend for themselves inside.
Dawn winces as Agile begins another display of sword prowess, then looks rather angry. "That's enough!" Taking off at a full run towards the X-Hunter, she shouts, "Pick on someone else! I'm not a soldier, but there's nothing fair or special about beating up humans, jerk!" As she nears, she arcs a real haymaker of a punch at Agile, trying to knock him either overboard, or away from the humans, or anything that helps save lives.
Fugue winces as a stray shot from the Reaper gets close enough to singe her arm, but doesn't let that deter her. She makes another dive, surfacing with two more unconscious humans to bring back to the Vorpal.
he scene of the background changes before Bit, as he majesticly holds the glowing saber within his grasp. The saber is lighted up in the form of a katana. He notices the being charge up towards him, shaking his head for a moment as he glances up. The huge armor is charging at him with it's lance, but he uses his quick reflexes to move away from the attack.
He is springing up to the air, placing his his right hand to the forehead. The symbol of Yin and Yang appears before his form, glowing brightly as it glimmers in a pulse. The symbol breaks away, the symbol of Yang is fleeing from the image of Yin. "Yin Beam!!" The samurai shouts as his arms extends down, releasing the tundrils of the energy out towards the mech. It is in the shape of Yin.
Neon Tiger completes her mission, noticing a diving Fugue. 'Well, now,' she thinks, 'Time to stop her.' She swims towards Fugue, fairly obvious with her glowing armour.
Fugue drops off the humans and flies down to the surf again. Her eyes narrow as she looks over the surface for any sign of more.. She can't see Neon, unfortunately, since the lights from the various ships reflect from the water and obscure her vision.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> pulls up his arms as the wave of energy slams into him, protecting the pilot within from the energy blast. Starting to move to the side, Mike twists a control, lancing out with an arm to strike at the deft Maverick warrior.
Up from the depths...thirty stories high...
Well ok not quite that tall. But what comes up from the depths of the ocean is still -darn- big. As the blackness of it's shape underwater gives way to the light glinting off of it's armored form, the giant body of a mechanical Wily-crab pulls itself into view, off to the side of the ship that's currently being assailed from seemingly all sides. And perched on the back of this great beast, as it clacks it's pincers menacingly and glances up towards the cruise ship in distress?
Wheel Gator's optics widen as Protoman locks his laser onto him. Scrambling backwards he disappears over the side of the VTOL just as the laser fires, scorching the spikes on top of his head. Spearing his massive claws into the underside of the mech as he crawls along the bottom, haning in thin air. Looking over his shoulder at the top as his mouth extends into a huge gator-grin, he extends his massive, spiked tail and whips it repeatedly across the top of the VTOL, smashing dents in the roof as he attempts to smash Blues from his sheltered, but precarious position
Michael Eildath says nothing as he strikes, maintaining a tight focus on himself throughout the battle, eyes fluttering to his arm-bound monitor to check on his own health during the fight, not possessing a convenient diagnostic program like the reploids around him.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> strikes Bit with its Paddle Slam attack.
Wheel Gator strikes Blues with his Tail Slam attack.
Agile snarls, an annoying hunter's fist crashing into his back-armor while he's distracted. He turns about, his optics are no longer showing with the ecstasy of tauning the hunters, but with the rage that this little being decides to attack him. He spins about, whipping his scimitar about in several arcs, cutting pieces in the deck, which quickly caves below his and Dawn's wieght after his attack.
Warp Raven is still in his downard dive, and gets nailed head on by the Aiming Laser. *Brrzzzt* "Yeeeargh!" cries the Raven. Scowling, the dark angel of the Mavericks continues onward, actually swooping past Protoman, attemtping to take a swipe at the Hunter with his outstretched wings.
Through the surrounding chaos, Twila and her two recruited aid, continue working to get the civilians onto the craft. When she's forced to go inside the middle-aged man and his compaion continue to help in the incoming while Twila tends to who she needs. So far the man with his hand taken from him is the worst case...and he's been tended to. Although those unconscious are exaimined to see if they require special needs. Remarakably, there was a doctor within the group taken on board who lends a hand with some of the cases, using the supplies that were provided.
Bass, crouched on the back of the giant mecha-crab, shakes his head slightly to rid himself of the water that streams down his helmet in small rivers. His grip on the armor of the mechanical minion is firm however, and as the crab fully pulls itself out of the water to float on the surface, he finally stands up freely, setting his hands on his hips and narrowing his eyes at the flashes and explosions of the battle that take place not even a hundred feet away.
"You know Guts Man..." he breathes, raising a hand outwards...palm-up, to gesture at the chaos nearby. "...it's like poetry in motion in some ways..."
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Twila, once the civilians are aboard, hit the big green button by the screen, and the Vorpal will float away from the ship.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Got it!'.
The Blue Bomber launches himself down from the sky, his sapphire blues narrowing into slits even as the Reaper raises a forcefield to block the assaults. Mega Man kicks up Rush, hovering in mid air with Beat at his side, gazing down to the Reaper as he speaks. "Hardly, Ugly! I will fight for even these. You have no right to play judge, jury, and executioners... no Maverick does. If you have been sent to Kill them by ol' Chrome dome... well... I will have to send you back in peices."
Commander X watches, his eyes opening wide in surprize the instand the Reaper blinks, raising his blaster forward and blinking even as the swarms of non-corporeal assaults come at him, moving his Buster to match eatch, it raising up and firing through them... judging his line of fire as he does so. Then Commander X's eyes open wide as the Reaper appears before him, his eyes narrowing. Even then he moves on the back of Rush, Rush moving with him to give him firm perchase as he unleashes a flurry of blocks and parries to counter the massive speed and assaults of the Reaper. Metal clangs hard against metal, several even managing to get through the whirlwind defence of X's own... then X's eyes open wide at the final overhanded smash, his arms raising up high in a crossed block... but still it send him droping to one knee on his precarious perch. He grunts, straighing as he resists the force of this massive blow...
"Not while I still function, Ugly." X gives a sharp, shrill whistle... and from behind him then launches a swiftly moving figure that /STREAKS/ for the Reaper's cowled and dark features. Beat, his sharp, small beak launches himself foward, small wings spread as he brings his full, immense speed and almost indestructible body to bear to ram right into that darkness, beak first!
Firestorm Phoenix's inexperience comes into play here as rather than try to fly away, he trys to figure out what the heck the aiming reticle is and is smacked in the chest by the blast. Growling his right right diappears revealing his flamethrower cannon. He takes aim and lets off a stream of fire at Protoman.
Wheel Gator shifts his position underneath the VTOL, as he hangs onto his safe, if somewhat unique, shelter. His massive claws drive through the underside of the hovercraft, maybe even coming near someone inside?
Bit is suddenly slammed tot he ground by the massive machine, releasing a growl under his breath. He murmurs a few words to himself. The Huge machine is not to be under estimated. This is where things are a bit more serious. Yet, Bit maintains his cool, nodding. "......" He holds the energy blade within his grasp, before making a dash up towards the mech, extending the energy sword out through the atmosphere. The blade is coming from the lower ;eft, to the upper right to strike to the leg.
Bit strikes Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> with his Energy Sword attack.
You paged Fugue with 'If your not under attack can you pose all the civs being clear of the deck?'.
Protoman is smacked by the tail, sending him flying across the deck, out of the way of Warp's attack, and right into Firestorm's attack. Owwie. Shifting his armor again, Protoman turns a bright orange red, and his body begins to visably heat up. Flames begin dancing across his form before a literal storm of fire engulfs the top of the ship and the Mavericks on it.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'I've got Agile occupied!'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'Hunters. Is Repliforce assistance required in the crisis in Africa?'.
Neon Tiger smirks as she comes up behind Fugue, unsuspecting. Her claws aim for the rear of her unsuspecting opponent...
Guts Man nods to Bass as he stands on the crab, "It sure is Bass. But you know what would make this poetry even nicer? If we could add our on verse into it." Guts Man cracks his knuckles as he watches the carnage. He then smiles and looks down at the smaller Master. His optics plead him to let him go have some fun with these twerps.
Fugue hmms and looks over the water. Looks like everyone's gone. She cues in her radio, but it cut short as a claw lashes over her leg, interrupting her flight systems. She falls into the water with a splash and looks about for her assailant.. this is not good. She quickly pulls out her sword and lashes at Neon Tiger, trying to get some room before she sinks too far.
(Ch. B [None]) Fugue transmits: 'Got everyone from the water, I thi--ack! *splash*'.
Protoman is smacked by the tail, sending him flying across the deck, out of the way of Warp's attack, and right into Firestorm's attack. Owwie. Shifting his armor again, Protoman turns a bright orange red, and hatches begin to open across his arms and legs. A litteral swarm of mini missle fly out, streaking around and blowing up the bad guys.
"Ballistic Barrage!"
Bass tilts his head to the side slightly, watching as a...familiar figure goes flying out of view for a few seconds. It's enough to bring a slight smile to his lips, as he sees the fluttering of that familiar scarf as well. Ok so he takes petty satisfaction in someone else's difficulties. Go sue him.
"Indeed Guts Man..." he breathes, as he gives the giant crab's head a good solid *BONK* with his boot. The creature's too big for it to hurt at all...and in fact it's pretty much a signal more than anything else. Sure enough, the mecha-crab starts to churn forward now, slowly approaching the ship itself. "First let's get a feel for just what's going on...."
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> shudders slightly as the leg is sliced into, and Michael flips a series of switches, locking the leg's damaged systems, ceasing flows of energy and fluids to nearly everything but simple movement. . o O (Not good... but at least I'm keeping up.) O o . Unlocking the torso, the Hunter swirls the armor around towards the Maverick, releasing a blast of energy from the chest mounted weapon systems, until now carefully covered by the paddles of the mecha. The Behemoth shudders, and the energy pours out of it.
Fugue strikes Neon Tiger with her Aqua Crystal Tachi attack.
Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> misses Bit with its Behemoth Beam attack.
Guts Man crosses his arms, "Well alright."
Twila shifts her weight as those from the ship seem to have been all evactuated. At least, from what she was told from one of the survivers. Upon overhearing the ones on the water are clear as well, she can be seen running back into the craft. Once inside the door is closed to protect those inside (which will reopen when the heros have need of it again) and presses the particular button on the panel near the sceen up front of the craft. The Vorpal disengages and moves back from the battle, remaining at a safe distance.
Outside> Bit notices the huge energy beaming out towards him. No...I don't think so. Bit springs up to the air, to avoid the huge beam from frying his circuits. Bit then releases a smirk as he extends out his left hand, grinning towards the Mech. He lets the beam glimmer in the radiant color of sapphire blue, swirling around his grasp. He releases out a small beam out towards the Behemoth. "Snare Beam!"
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Civilians on board.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Good work, Hunter.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Cool. So everyone that can be saved, has been?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Indeed. A fellow medic is also helping with the injured.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Anyone who can, check around for anything. I am dealing with this 'Reaper' thing.'.
Outside> Warp Raven lucks out, being behind Protoman and his missile swarm at this point. Some of the barrage still comes flying his way, but with some quick turns, and fancy flying, Warp barely gets out of the way. Missles whipping all about his person and flying past him, Warp begins to aim up Protoman, charging up his weapon as he eyes the Hunter. Raven's decided it best if he plans this next attack carefully, while he still has time. (No-attack)
Outside> Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> shudders with the debilitating laser, Michael reaching about to get systems going again.
Outside> Wheel Gator is pummeled by Blues's barrage of missiles - he wasn't expecting that, and he's not very mobile in that position. His claws slip from the VTOL and he plummets down the side of the boat ... but before he hits the water a SLAM is heard, followed by a loud screeching as his right hand digs into the side of the boat, slowing his fall ... then stopping it, everything but Gator's right arm submerged in the stormy water. Then, after a second or two, his left arm joins it, driving into the side of the boat. Wheel Gator swiftly hauls himself up the side of the boat, seawater draining from his jaws and mouth, face fixed in a huge gator-grin. "Let's go!" he shouts, slamming his feet into the deck and springing off, hurling himself at Blues in his powerful spinning charge attack.
Outside> Firestorm Phoenix is hit with several of the missiles and nearly knocked out of the air, "Argh, I need to be more careful." He regains flight ability just before hitting the water and flys back up, noting everyones elses positions and with a single powerful beat of his wings, sends a cloud of small razor sharp feathers at shades boy.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Dawn?'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'The Behemoth isn't responding. This could stink.'.
Outside> The Reaper recoils as he is assailed by Beat the wonder bird. The creature pecks and scratches, doing little more than shred the shroud the monster has buried himself beneath, "Filthy beast! Get away from me!" roars the dark one, raising one massive hand to wrap around the bird. The Reaper lowers the feebly struggling mech-animal to eye-level, "Hiding behind your pets won't save you, betrayer. This is MY game! I make the rules!" The monster's eyes glow bright green, "And I have every right to serve as executioner. Lord Sigma has given it to me. I am destiny's ambassador. I am the future of mankind, and so I am death. Behold my work." The Reaper clenches the hand holding Beat, illiciting a loud squawk from the poor creature. It's tiny body folds in, crackling with energy and broken circuits. Horribly damaged, but not dead, the robo-bird emits a sad chirp before the Reaper brutally tosses it aside, "Who will you throw in my path next, X? Your darling sister? Your pathetic father? They will meet the same fate, until only you are left to receive oblivion's sweet kiss."
Outside> Bit smirks towards the huge rarmor. He then says towards the heavens. "Aegis! I call upon you!!!" He extends his arm out, letting the huge shield materialize in his grasp. THe golden light sparkles through, glinting it's beauty in the atmosphere. He then extends out his left hand, pointing the shield towards Mike. He says, "Now.....Time to send you to rest in peace..." He sneers, before releasing out the huge light from the shield. THe tundrils and sparks emits as the shield glimmers out to the Behemoth.
Outside> Neon Tiger roars from the attack, though the sound is muffled by the water. Her tail snakes around, letting of a flash at Fugue before she swims for the surface, and the Maverick ship.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'If everyone's loaded up, I'm not 'bout to get wasted by a freakin' /X-Hunter/.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '... BEAT!!!'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'We need to start getting out of here. I can coax a little bit more out of the Behemoth, but then I'm gonna hafta book.'.
Outside> As the attacks swarm in, and Protoman is surounded by Mavericks once again, his armor begins to heat up. Flames flash from diffrent parts of his body before he litterally explodes... ok, well, not really, but it looks like a massive fire ball just began expanding, using him as the center.
Outside> Blues strikes Wheel Gator with his Fire Storm attack.
Outside> This... could be bad. She cringes slightly in preparation and activates her forcefield, creating a bubble of air around herself. One foot kicks sharply into the other, and Fugue rises up, breaking the surface. She glances down, searching for the glowing menace... Aha! Was that a glimmer? In any case, she needs to release this forcefield, and tries her best to aim toward the underwater light, while bracing for the impact she knows is coming.
Outside> Bass glances up as a light *BUMP* issues out, the crab making contact with the side of the ship itself. Amazing how in the mass chaos and confusion of battle, one can slip onto a scene completely unnoticed. "Well then Guts Man...let's get aboard shall we?" With that, he glances up the side of the ship's hull, before suddenly leaping upwards, grabbing hold of the edge and pulling himself over, where he flips his feet onto the main floor itself, boots coming down and clanking into position. Now he's right in the midst of all this chaos, as he stands there with his hands on his hips, glaring from side to side.
"Looks like you Maverick Hunters aren't doing so good at hunting Mavericks..." he sneers.
Outside> *CRASH* Suddenly, from the cargo hold, part of the deck is torn up by a pair of small fists. Dawn's fists. She emerges from the self-made exit, landing on another part of the deck, looking around to see what all is going
(Ch. C [Non]) Jet Stingray transmits: 'The situation in China isn't too serious though there is a bit of combat going on... How is everyone else doing?'.
Outside> Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> shudders as the energy lances over the Behemoth, and Mike knows the armor's getting mauled. Tensing the armor for a new strike, he pulls the paddle arms together, angling the Behemoth to crash downwards, probably playing hell with the deck of the ship, but hopefully catching the Maverick underneath.
Outside> Wheel Gator GARs as he takes the full brunt of Blues's attack. Rolling behind one of the top-deck cabins for cover he takes a moment to catch up on his communications.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Alright. What's the situation now? Agile's been...kinda dealt with.'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Hold back, Dawn. We still might need someone to pull injuries free. . o O (Maybe me, he thinks grimly)'.
(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Are all the Humans out of the way?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Affirmative.'.
(Ch. C []) Storm Owl transmits: 'I am unable to join any of the situations currently under way. I can not reach the Southeastern Atlantic Ocean, and the situation in China seems to be almost resolved. I'm soory I am unable to lend any assistance.'.
Outside> Guts Man stares up at the ship. Ah geez, he doesn't want to have to jump all the way up there. "Ah screw that..." Guts Man punches a hole in the side of the ship, making his way inside of the ship. He then slowly makes his way through the lower decks, a couple women shrieks can be heard, but that doesn't stop Guts Man. He keeps walking up a flight of stairs before he arrives on the ships deck. God bless confusion!
Outside> Agile slowly comes out from one of the starwell, looking furious and slightly mared, his optics starting to turn red without the crimson-light.
Outside> Firestorm Phoenix smirks as Protoman heats things up and attempts to fry his assailents. But Firestorm being a fire based reploid built to withstand high temptures, easily withstands the heat of the attack long enough to get to a safe distance. Now preparing his next assault, his right hand reapprears from the forarm and the arm bursts into flames. With a flare of his jets he dives for Protoman, arcing up at the last second and attempting to apply his fist to Protoman's jaw.
Outside> Bit is landed on, growling as he cringes in pain. He growls, shaking his head. He then uses the aegis shield and his weight to force the being off of him. He murmurs towards the armor, getting up slowly as he grumbles. He extends out his right hand, waving his hand around. As the hand glows brightly, feeling the grasp swirl around. The flaming ball spins around, then it hurls out towards the armor. It is speeding at it like a comet. THe crimson sphere with the whitish freckles of debris surrounding it.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Alright. But I can't go underwater, so...'.
Outside> Warp Raven is charred, but not out yet. Before taking any further actions, he consults his radio. Meeting naught but silence in reponse, he sighs, and steels himself for what he has to do. Frowning, Warp takes one last moment to aim his cannon, and fires a lancing bolt of crackling green energy at the hunter.
Outside> Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> staggers backwards, limping on the damaged leg as Mike twists some controls frantically. Dropping the paddles into ready position again, the armor... charges. Yes, it charges, full-on, the Maverick.
Outside> Commander X remains on his knees for an instant, his eyes narrowed up at the Reaper, his arms locking and body spasming for an instant as his body locks temporarily due to the damage inflicted. X's mind races, swiftly kicking in Auto Repair systems, his eyes locked up on the Reaper as Beat assaults him... the Blue Bird of Aft Kicking showing his true heroism. Afteral... he /is/ the Zero of Mechanimals. X then watches, his eyes opening wide as he yells in rage. "BEAT!!!"
X's body /SNAPS/ back into operation as he /LAUNCHES/ foward. His body shimmering and altering. To Combat the Darkness, one must merely increase the Light. And this X does, launching himself bodily for the Reaper with the full force of his Dash jets, leaping from Rush even as the canine dives for the falling Beat. X's body then... shimmers... his torso and shoulders lightening to a different blue then before, his arms shifting to a dark, steely grey. Apon the front of then chest shimmers into being, the upturned 'flame' of a pure white Yin symbol, and the most almost disturbing past of this transformation, the eyes of the Blue Bomber transform, turning to a blank, featureless White. And in X's hands appears a long, thin, beautiful blade that glows a pure and shining white.
The Yin Cipher.
And then in a voice calm and emotionless, too calm in fact, even as he brings the Blade up and across for the Reaper.
"You hurt my bird..."
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: '...Speaking of injured people.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'I'll have the door open and ready.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Good.'.
Protoman and various Mavericks. "Not good..." When he gets knocked off, she leaps off after him. Backpack thrusters still revealed, she rockets towards him, trying to catch Protoman before he goes underwater.
Outside> Warp Raven continues to float in mid-air, watching Protoman being flung towards the ocean, and the female hunter in hot pursuit. Arm-cannon still smoking, Warp watches for a moment, an angered look on his features. Scowling, he begins flying back for the Nautilus, but not without mumbling some unkind words about Gators under his breath.
Outside> Bass glances to the side as Blues....well goes flying right past him in the process. He seems torn between a sudden thought, but as Dawn goes flying past, he merely smirks and turns his attention back towards the deck itself again...and those present. A few steps forward continue to echo out from his armored footsteps, as he steps past the wreckages from stray shots, and such. It's then that he happens to bring his attention to one who stayed behind....Wheel Gator, and he sneers slightly.
"Shouldn't you be paying attention to something else...?" he leers.
Outside> As he lands to the ground, he keeps his calm posure as the being is rushing to him. The plasmic blade flickers within his grasp, letting the breeze of the wind frinkle through his figure. As it is near him, he springs himself towards the heavens, ascending up over the being from making his way to ram him. Suddenly, he lands to the ground, taking a glance out towards the robot. He decides to give it a lift down to the ground. So he dashes up towards the robotic armor, holding the energy sword within his grasp. He dashes out to the right side of Mike, swinging the blade towards the side part of the armor to slice it apart.
Outside> Neon Tiger snarls as she gets another scratch on her armour. She hauls herself out of the water, perching on the rail of the ship once more. Spotting Fugue in the water, her tail comes around again and lets off another shot.
Outside> Wheel Gator stomps around to face Bass, rain streaming off him. Seawater drips from his jaws, stretched in his characteristic gator-grin. "I try not to get sidetracked."
Outside> Fugue winces slightly as the backlash of the air pressure buffets her backward. Thankfully, the kick she gave herself earlier restarted her flight systems fully. She quickly dodges to the left and darts forward, throwing a handful of what looks like glitter at Neon Tiger, "Bad kitty! You need a time out!"
Outside> Dawn amazingly manages to catch Protoman in time, rocketing for the Vorpal, and setting him past the entrance ramp, sighing. "What a mess..." She waits on the ramp of the VTOL now, looking about the scene before her, wondering what needs to be done...
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*in a voice of unerving calm* This Reaper is stronger then he looks... Everyone. If the passangers are all right, get clear. We have another problem as well, Bass is on board. Get yourselves clear.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Protoman's in.'.
Outside> "Sidetrack this...." Bass growls, as he shifts his buster upwards, having formed it already and begun to shunt power into it, as he brings it to bear on Wheel Gator's general direction. "You Mavericks thought you were pretty hot stuff when you knocked our station out of the sky. Trouble is...you forgot to -finish- the job didn't you?"
Outside> Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> sparks violently as the armor is sliced away, delicate circuitry exposed and smoke pouring from the armor. Mike curses under his breath, noting, for the first time, that the Vorpal is... rather out of jumping range. So, instead of pondering the blatantly suicidal, the Ride Armor steps back. Here's the windup.... the pitch... it slams a paddle forward at the Maverick one more time.
(Ch. B [None]) Fugue transmits: 'Once I get this Maverick off my back...'.
Outside> The seemingly disembodied eyes of the Reaper widen in surprise as he is shoved back with all of Rock's tremendous might. He pulls his fist back to deliver a punch to the hero's boyish face when, without realizing it, he allows the Yin Cypher to open a wound along his chest. Mech-fluid gushes out. But the dark stitching of the shroud seems to mend itself as quickly as it was opened, hiding the wound. The Maverick rises higher and higher in the air, "Very well, if that is what you want than all of your comrades will die now, as you watch! Savor the oblivion they will meet quickly. Your journey will be far, far slower." A dark energy begins to crackle between the Reaper's hands, "DARKNESS.." The energy grows stronger, pulsating like the beating of a hideous heart. "DESCEND!!!!" cries the Reaper, allowing a tremendous and horrible blast of ebony energy to fly forth, ripping through the air around it. It is not only aimed at Rock, but at the area beneath it, with deadly and destructive force. Unless the hero can either block the lethal energy, or take it all into his body, this could end in the death the Reaper is so fond of boasting of.
Outside> Wheel Gator grins and says, "Yeah, but see, the thing is th-" abruptly his sentence is cut off by him swiftly spinning about, his massive, heavy tail following just a second before it's expected ...
Outside> Guts Man leans against the railing, looking on, he's just letting people beat the crap out of each other before he steps in to take charge of things.
Twila Peterson makes way through crowd to receive the android from Dawn. And with some reluctant help places him in a hoverbed while it's secured in place...checking on his vital systems and making certain that at least his primaries are functional...and if they're not? They obtain help from life support.
Even as she lends aid one of the humans sneers, "Dang machines...warranties busted..."
To which Twila replies evenly, "This 'machine' helped save your life, Sir."
The dissenter, altho unnerved, says nothing more.
Outside> As the peddal is drawing near him, Bit leaps up to the air, leaping up over the pedal. He delivers a smirk to the armor, before extending out theenergy sword out within his grasp. As he is drawing near the being, heswings the plasma blade out out towards the Behemoth.
Blues groans as he comes partially awake. "The heck?"
Outside> Dawn looks towards the exchange between Bit and the Albatross II, obviously a bit worried. Then the elite Maverick's slashes knock the Armor offline. She leaps off the ramp, back onto the deck and near the Armor, trying to pick it up overhead. Given her strength, this probably won't be a problem. "Leave 'im alone, Bit! Not lettin' ya hurt my bro like this!"
Outside> Maverick Hunter Ride Armor <Behemoth> sputters, a gout of flame consuming the cockpit as feedback destroys some explosive component in the ride armor. Black smoke billows from the armor... but the pilot is nowhere inside.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*in a normal voice* Dawn! Get Mike out of there!'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'What the!? An explosion?'.
Twila also makes certain that the androids pain reception is greatly reduced. He wouldn't be feeling all to well otherwise...not that he is. Certainly doesn't look it. "You're in the Vorpral and I think the others are about to pull out now," she tells him, making a few more adjustments.
Outside> Well ok. Bass wasn't quite expecting that quick of a response so to speak. The sudden fliparound is enough to slam into him forcefully, and send him hurtling back with the force of the blow, where he smashes into the wall of a 'cabin'...and goes right through it in the process. Part of the wall itself collapses with the passage of his armored body...and soon he's laying amidst broken cinders, half sitting up a few seconds later, to shake out the cobwebs. However, his next expsression would be that of a sneer.
"Goood...I do -so- hate it when they waste so much time talking. This is more my STYLE!"
And with that, he suddenly kicks in his dash jets as he flips upwards, igniting them in a wash of thrusterfire and rushing straight for the Maverick, as his right arm ignites with power in a crackle of energy...and a giant, shimmering energy blade, that he brings up as he leaps at the last second, and whips about in a crisscross pattern as he descends on the gator's form.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Everyone, get clear. This is getting nasty. I think we are going to have to tell the former President we couldnt save his boat...'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Boats can be replaced at least.'.
Outside> Bit smirks, and nods. "...." He begins to bow, then peers down to only nothing. He shakes his head, he nods to the signal of his radio. He would stay, but no... He decides to make a quick haste, to leave the scene. Bit is dashing away from the crowd, before holding the shield with him. The shield slowly begins to dematerialize from his grasp. (THis is the best I can do till I get more info on the Aegis. ^_^;;)
Outside> Neon Tiger continues to perch on the rail, her tail still facing Fugue. But she doesn't move. She can see herself slightly, but can't move a limb.
Twila Peterson does the last of the stabilizing for now and starts heading back up front of the ship...getting ready to reopen the door as the others arrive.
Outside> Fugue grins as her little 'trick' worked its magic. "Well, well, I don't think you should be here, kitty." She pulls out her battlestaff and floats so Neon is between her and the Maverick ship. She leans over, lines up to make sure she's even, and swings the staff back... "FORE!"
Outside> Watching the defeat of his opponent, Bit begins turn from his opponent, only to let the blade fling to his side. He makes a majestic sort of pose, letting the tundrils of the heavens to reign the petals of the cherry blossoms to drop upon him and near the destroyed victim. "Rest..in Peace.." The platform he is standing on is upon the Yin/Yang symbol.
He takes notice up towards Dawn and the destroyed victim as the background scene fades. "...." He begins to bow, then peers down to only nothing. He shakes his head, he nods to the signal of his radio. He would stay, but no... He decides to make a quick haste, to leave the scene. Bit is dashing away from the crowd, before holding the shield with him. It seems that the shild is flaring away, fizziling away to link with Bit to make it easier for him to make haste.
Outside> Wheel Gator drops down on all fours, snaking himself under Bass's attack with his typical less-than-honorable tactics. Whipping his tail around in an effort to trip up Bass he scuttles to the edge of the ship. Swiftly spinning to his feet he digs his feet in and reaches into a subspace compartment ... yes, ladies and gentlemen, it Wheel Gator's mighty ... if somewhat unorthodox ... weapon of choice, the wheel!! Wheel gator-grins, tossing the massive spiked wheel to his other hand, then raises it overhead and hurls it at Bass, yelling "SPIN WHEEL-!" as the same moment he hurls himself off the side of the ship, plunging into the sea and snaking through the water for the Maverick ship ... perhaps open to a parting shot
Outside> Michael Eildath watches Bit flee from where he stands... rather, hangs, having launched himself from the armor and over the side of the ship. He hangs from the side, watching the happenings. "Not at rest... never at peast... try again next time."
(Ch. B [None]) Fugue transmits: 'Awright! One Maverick kitty birdy! Ready to help with evac.'.
Outside> Firestorm Phoenix after watching Protoman fall in combat he thinks to him self. oO(Well, that was surprisingly easy.)Oo He begins looking about for The rest of the mavericks to see if they need assitance. Noting that Reaper, Bit and Agile are faring well, he decides to take breather. But his attention is refocused back to Gator when he heres him... "Oh my, this isn't good." His eyes narrow as now both hands disappear into their respective arms, "Hey Bass! Did you think you single just one of us out? Guess again." And with that he unleashes a torrent of fire from both flamethrowers at once in Bass' general direction.
Outside> Dawn snarls to Bit, "Shut up. I'm not gonna forget this...Mike, bro, be ok...", even as the Armor explodes, she blinks, as Mike hangs from the side of the ship, she shifts the Armor to one hand and runs over to Mike, offering her hand, "Bro! You're alright! C'mon, I'll help ya up!" Wow, she was angry before, but now she's hyper and excited?
Outside> Neon Tiger goes tumbling into the water, now unfrozen. When she surfaces she roars her frustration at her opponent, her tail poking out of the water again. "Begone!" she calls up to Fugue, letting off a shot.
Outside> Bass raises his left arm as the spinwheel comes towards him, the serrated edges of the blade biting into his forearm with a hard *CRUNCH* of metal on metal. Just like that, it imbeds into place...and dosen't go any further than that. With an almost calm motion, he reaches up with his free hand, and takes hold of the item, tearing it loose from his forearm in a sudden trail of fluid and sparks, and tosses it off to he side. He narrows his eyes slightly, sorely tempted to go after the gator...but that's about when Firestorm Phoenix becomes the big one in his face so to speak. As the flamethrowers ignite, they course across his form, as he snaps both forearms up to block the worst of the blaze itself. Even as the flames wash over him, he glares out beyond, towards Phoenix's form, as his body changes color, becoming bronzen in hue...even his eyes taking on the color, giving him much the appearance of a statue standing there, as he continues to glare upwards.
"Why should I bother to single you out?" he growls. "...when you're all so nice as to come right to ME!"
And with that, he suddenly leaps straight upwards with a burst from his dash jets, reaching the apex of his height, where he gives a second burst from the jets to add to it...as he soars straight for the Maverick's form, both arms clenched above his head as they start to literally pump up with the robotic version of steroids, amplifying his strength and power a hundred fold in a shorterm adrenaline rush.
"Giga...SEISMIC...CRUSH!"
And with that, all that power is directed into the two fists as they come smashing down towards Phoenix's head.
Outside> Fugue yeeps softly as the Tiger resurfaces, "Maybe I'll just countt hat as a bogey... yeah." She winces a bit as the laser singes her armor, though thankfully it's nothing bad. With a final glance toward Rock and Reaper, she keys in her flight engines and soars toward the Vorpal.
Outside> The Blue Bomber /LAUNCHES/ himself foward and up, bringing the Yin Cipher, the gift of a dear friend to him, a gift from a man who saved his life. Commander X launches himself forward and up, giving the long slash up and acrost the Reaper's Torso, his blank eyes intent apon the Reaper. "No, Monder. It is you who will fall this day." X spins then, falling down from the swiftly rising Reaper, his eyes scanning the deck and noting... several new faces and situations... and his eyes only narrow. This causes him to send out several transmissions, before rolling in the air as he gazes up at the Reaper. His voice is full of a deadly calm. "I wont be going anywhere, Ugly. You and your Maverick's however..." X's eyes remain focused as he descends ever swiftly for the deck... untill suddenly... he is caught mid air! Under his feet appears Rush of an instant, serving as platform for X as he lands apon him. And then he watches even as the Descending Darkness comes down, and the Yin Cipher is raised up and foward... The Hero /LAUNCHES/ foward, kicking Rush unto action to put himself between the beam and the ship. And the Yin Cipher comes up, meeting the beam in a parrying gesture... Darkness meeting Light with an /EXPLOSION/ of raw power... causing the massive beam to litteraly... disperse around X into nothingness.
After that light and energy cascade down, disappating, in the center of that storm of energy, X emerges. His colors are returned to normal, his sapphire blues glaring up at the Reaper. "All right, Monster. The game is over... you lost! The only ones who will fall today are You and your fellow Mavericks!" Rock's buster launches foward, the humm of it all ready intense and fluctating, having used the potent energies of the attack he deflected to channel into his own body. He dispatches several transmissions, even as he throws his arm foward, sending a massive pulse of energy foward and at the Reaper.
Twila Peterson is currently watching over the injured as well as keeping tabs on the battle below. "Either of you need immediate attention?" she questions...
Outside> Agile sees the running Fugue turn to run, and he whips the hilt of his blade, sending off the red energy. Oddly, the energy does not return as Agile turns back around, and darts across the deck of ship, his feet landing back on the nautilus.
Dawn is in pretty good shape. About the only sign of damage on her is that, well, her backpack's been dented in against her back pretty hard, likely from a collision with a wall. She sets the Ride Armor down carefully, then sets Mike down, already starting to withdraw a first-aid kit. "You ok, bro?" A nod to Twila, "I'm fine, really. Agile...apparently wanted to mix it up Kung Fu style. Thanks to Mike's lessons here, well, heh."
As the Hunters start returning the refugees from the ship look on, not really saying much of anything...all seemingly stunned. "Fugue? You?" Twila asks.
Fugue floats in and twists around, face curled up in a grimace. She stretches her arm back as far as she can, "I'm fine... -Someone- tagged me on the back while I was boarding though."
Michael Eildath rises slowly, making his way towards the controls of the Vorpal.
Dawn hmms, and nods several, several times rapidly. "Gotcha, bro! Glad you're alright!" She waves to Fugue, "Need some help? Got some materials already on me..."
Outside> Firestorm Phoenix seeing Bass leap up at him he quickly kicks his jets in and thrusts backwards narrowly avoiding Bass's grasp. Good thing too, cause that attack might have finished the bird. But it didn't, and now he plans his retaliation. Multiple compartments pop open revealing a horde of small missiles. He's just about to fire when he recieves orders to pull back, "Hmm, sorry Fin-Head, I would really like to stay and play, but I got orders, soooo." He lets his missiles, hit or miss he now turns and heads back to the Nautilus, its too close for him to go at full speed so he hopes the missiles will distract Bass and give him clear sailing back to the safety of the ship.
(Ch. E [Super-Secret-Fu!]) Plant Man transmits: ' . . . . Crash, quit it with the dumb jokes.'.
The doctor or the group kneels by one of his unconscious patients. Although the injury isn't severe, he's still concerned. "These people need to be taken to a hospital when able.
Another questions, "Where will we be taken?"
Dawn doesn't seem entirely convinced. "Are you sure? I mean, it's not a problem if you need some help." Odd, for someone who stormed off from the Labs last night in a bout of anger, she seems willing to lend a hand still...
Michael Eildath looks back. "Anywhere in particular you guys want to go?..."
Outside> Bass does get caught by said missiles, and the blast lifts him off his feet, carrying him over the side of the ship's deck, apparently about to suffer the same fate as Protoman earlier. However, at the last second, he snaps his left hand up to seize the side of the ship's rail, twisting his buster about to trail on the retreating Maverick's back...as his form again shifts colors. A cyan and blue mixture, with the buster a pure white, as he narrows his eyes.
"So sorry to see you go reploid..." he growls, as he draws a bead on the retreating Maverick.
"A pity you couldn't stay to PLAY! Take my compliments WITH you!"
And with that, the weapon unleashes in a loud *FWUMP* as it discharges a contained ball of nitrogen and various other freezing goodies.
<After Rock had given the order to leave without and the passangers are disembarking near a hospital in Cairo...>
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Dont worry, Hunters. I will catch up. This Reaper just needs a... Ku... so... *BOOM!*'.
(Ch. B [None]) Fugue transmits: '....That wasn't a good sound. Mega Man? You still there?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'ROCK?!'.
(Ch. E [Super-Secret-Fu!]) Plant Man transmits: 'Simpsons.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'What was that?'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*interfereance and static for several moments... then... a pause as it clears* ... well... Tell the former President that we... couldnt save his boat...'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Duly notified. Serves 'im right.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Way I'm hearin' it, he's in with the likes of Kaust, Thackery, and so forth. Losing a boat rather than his life...he should be thankful. Bet the stupid jerk uses it as political ammo, though.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*soft splutters* Most likely... I am on my way back.'.
(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Rock...?'.
(Ch. A [Hunter-Main]) Rock transmits: '*static for a moment, before fading in...* ... Twila? ... I'm all right... just... underwater.'.
(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Need help help or does Rush have it?'.
(Ch. A [Hunter-Main]) Rock transmits: 'I am all right. Rush has it... we are just going to be wet when we get there...'.
(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Kay. We just unloaded the passangers as well.'.
Michael Eildath looks over at Dawn. "Didn't expect to see you here... but I'm glad you showed up."
Dawn nods, climbing into another piloting seat, odd since she can't fly the Vorpal worth a crud. "We want the same thing still, bro. Even if I don't like how the others are goin' about it...when the signal went out, guess we both had to help, y'know?"
The passengers disembark on their own accord and others are aided by on-call hospital staff and then are cleared soon thereafter...leaving the Vorpal free to take off once more.
Fugue leans back and closes her eyes. She lets out a slow breath and begins mumbling something seemingly unintelligible.
Michael Eildath nods. "I haven't gotten a chance to talk to the boss... er... Rock, yet, but a lot of people are noticing... I... I kinda said a few things last night to start it off."
Dawn blinks, clearly surprised at Mike's words. "You serious? Whataya mean they're noticing? I don't get what's goin' on." She holds up a hand, "One sec.", and calls out as passengers start to leave, "Yo! Ex-President! Your boat sank! You didn't! Consider it the good news, 'kay?"
Fugue can't help but crack a smile at Dawn's comment, though she continues what seems to be meditation.
Michael Eildath facepalms. "Right. Diplomacy classes for all recruits." He pulls out a notepad, and jots it down. "We were in the middle of discussing last nights travesty when this whole thing started."
Twila Peterson converes via radio for a moment before tetaking her seat. "Rock's alright...he's on his way back hom now."
Dawn rises from the chair now, "Huh...ok. If you say so, bro. Any highlights?" She peers out the cockpit, noticing Fugue being rather quiet and asks, "Somethin' up, hmm?"
Fugue shakes her head and speaks up softly. "Just a little exercise. I'd rather not have to think about some of the things I saw today, especially right now."
Dawn ahhs, and nods. "Consider this, though. I sink like a stone. Armors sink. Protoman and everyone else was busy. When folks started goin' overboard, /you/ made the difference. Keep that in mind."
Twila Peterson comments, "It never gets easier. But like Dawn said, we do help. And alot of those folks wouldn't be alive if not for you. For all of us."
Fugue smirks, "I sink too. It's just the sight of some of them getting mowed down like that... I'd rather not think about it."
Dawn simply nods once to Fugue, "Think happy thoughts, then." Sage advice, if one considers advice inspired by The Karate Kid to be sage. Turning back to sit down in the cockpit once more, she peers at Mike, just...waiting, listening.
Michael Eildath walks over towards Fugue, letting the rest of the people get unloaded. "Fugue..." he sighs. "Watching people die isn't something you can get used to... not ever, but when you're fighting the Mavericks, it happens." He smiles. "Just concentrate on the ones you can save, and don't let sorrow over the ones that you overwhelm you. Don't forget them... just don't let it take over everything." He sighs. "Trust me, I've got a lot of experience in this..." . o O (More than anyone should ever have.) O o . "But you did the best you could out there, remember that... and someday, God willing, we'll beat the Mavericks, and we'll never have to see that happen again."
"A-men," Twila breaths.
Fugue opens her eyes and grins, "Naw, I'll be fine. I'm good at bouncing back." She spins around to face the others and presses her hands together. "But here's hoping for a future without fighting."
Dawn snickers, "Too bad there's no drinks here. Or we could drink to that."
Michael Eildath nods, heading back to the controls. "Everyone's off... let's get back to base."
(Ch. C [Non]) Jet Stingray transmits: 'The problem in China is over. Man, am I glad I don't have a stomach in times like this.'.
(Ch. C []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Something tells me thouse with stomaches shouldn't ask.'.
(Ch. C [Non]) Jet Stingray transmits: 'That is a good call. The battle took place in a graveyard and a person used a earth shaking attack... That should be enough to state my case.'.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: '...We /so/ didn't need to hear about that, Repliforce.'.
(Ch. C []) Twila Peterson transmits: '*cough-cough* Sounds like the individual was either deeply depraved...or he's been watching too many horror flicks. Bleah.'.
(Ch. C [Non]) Jet Stingray transmits: 'Sorry...'.
(Ch. C []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Thanks for not going into more detail than that tho.'.
(Ch. C [MH/RF]) Dawn transmits: 'Topic change. Effective immediately.'.
=============================== IC Broadcasts ================================
Message: 9/28 Posted Author
Mavericks Attack Former-President Thu Dec 21 GNN Reporter
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This just in, the personal Cruise-Liner of Former-President Clark was viciously assaulted by Mavericks last night. Donald Clark, the former President of South Africa, lost control of his country following a violent Reploid uprising. The reploid Pascal and his regime were democratically elected as the new President of the once war-torn country. Clark, dissatisfied with the outcome of the election, began a furious spree of fundraising which climaxed last night when he invited some of the worlds most out-spoken anti-reploid rights activists to his Yacht to receive donations for his planned reelection campaign. However, his plans were shattered by an untimely Maverick attack.
<Shots of the boat, taken by security cams. Smoke rolls across the deck, knocking out any human that breathes it in. The pudgy figure of President Clark can be seen running to the far end of the ship. A dark figure pierces the green mist before him. The Reaper, clad in a black shroud, steps forward, fist drifting off of his cloak. The obese former President tries to fire at the creature with a laser pistol, but a flash from the Reaper's eyes melts the weapon and Clark's hand. The monster proceeds to brutally backhand the fat man, sending him flying off the boat.. only to be caught by the Maverick Hunter Fugue>
Fortunately the Maverick Hunters, and Commander X, were on the scene to rescue the unconscious victims and the former President. There was a total of eight reported deaths, and casualties have yet to be confirmed. All the survivors were brought to safety before the Mavericks detonated the ship, and they are currently recuperating. We join Mr. Clark in his hospital bed now.
<The plump figure of the politician appears on screen. His new cybernetic hand is clenched before him. His swollen, acne scarred face is twisted in anger and pain, but he manages to speak with a steady voice.>
"The attack on my person confirms that the.. creatures that currently head my once great nation can no longer be trusted. How can 'President' Pascal claim to speak of peace when he offers refuge to these murderers? Why? Because they're all the same, and last night proves it. These monsters aren't fit to be declared sentient, let alone run a country. That is why I announce my intention to once again take the office of President of South Africa. I cannot allow my nation to become a sanctuary for killers. Watch the reploids, my fellow men. Sooner or later, they will all be Mavericks."
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