Infernal Resurgence (Worm/Exalted)

[Yzarc]

11th January 2011

___________________________________________

Spoiler: Training Rolls

Debt = Rolled 7 + 3 (9 dice used)

Sleepless = 5 + 6 (6 from previous roll)

MHM = 7 + 3 (9 dice used)
All debts paid. You got Sleepless and MHM.

___________________________________________

Danny Hebert, dressed in unassuming clothes to blend into the urban landscape, walked with purpose through the heart of the E88 territory. His steps were measured, and his gaze carefully observed the surroundings, aware of the tension that permeated the air.

The neighborhood bore the markings of the Empire's influence, graffiti displaying their infamous emblem adorned walls, and subtle signs of their territorial control were evident in the wary glances exchanged by the locals. Danny navigated this volatile territory with a mix of caution and determination.

His unassuming attire allowed him to melt into the backdrop of the bustling streets, avoiding drawing undue attention. A worn jacket , a scarf, a hat and nondescript jeans served as his camouflage as he delved into the heart of the Empire Eighty-Eight's stronghold.

Occasionally, he exchanged nods with the residents, offering an acknowledgment that concealed the underlying purpose of his presence. Danny's every step was calculated, his ears attuned to the subtle shifts in conversations, catching whispers that hinted at the inner workings of the notorious gang.

As he passed by the fronts of businesses, Danny noted the subtle signs of the Empire Eighty-Eight's influence, protection fees paid, symbols etched into windows, and the undercurrent of fear that lingered among the shopkeepers. Every detail, no matter how inconspicuous, became a piece of the puzzle he sought to assemble.

In this unassuming guise, Danny moved through the Empire Eighty-Eight territory like a silent observer, a civilian weaving through the fabric of a dangerous subculture. His unassuming appearance concealed the steel resolve beneath, the determination of a father seeking to understand the forces that had entangled his daughter's life.

As Danny walked through the part of the city claimed by the Empire Eighty-Eight, the atmosphere grew increasingly oppressive. The marks of the supremacist gang were now obvious and the demographics of the area reflected their hateful ideology. The streets were eerily devoid of diversity, with only white individuals visible, a stark manifestation of the Empire Eighty-Eight's influence.

Continuing on his path, Danny couldn't ignore the unease settling in the pit of his stomach. The neighborhood seemed to exist under the ominous shadow of the Empire Eighty-Eight. As he kept walking down a deserted alley, his fears materialized into a grim reality.

A group of Empire Eighty-Eight members surrounded a man of Asian origin, delivering a vicious beating. The victim, outnumbered and defenseless, bore the brunt of their aggression. Danny's fists clenched involuntarily, his sense of justice compelling him to intervene.

Positioning himself strategically, Danny focused his mind on the invisible forces at his command. With precision and force, he directed telekinetic strikes against the Empire Eighty-Eight members, catching them off guard. The assailants, unable to comprehend the origin of the powerful blows, found themselves on the receiving end of an unseen force.

In a swift and decisive move, Danny concealed his identity by putting on his mask. Transformed into a masked guardian, he stepped into the alley, confronting the Empire Eighty-Eight members who had been so brutally attacking the Asian individual. His voice, now disguised and authoritative, cut through the tension.

"Surrender. This ends now," Danny declared, his tone carrying a firm resolve and hints of something more.

The Empire Eighty-Eight members, momentarily surprised by the sudden appearance of the masked figure, hesitated.

With a show of telekinetic prowess, Danny swiftly disarmed the Empire Eighty-Eight members, stripping them of their weapons with an almost superhuman precision. He then proceeded to disassemble the weapons, the guns and knives coming apart before their very eyes, leaving only the disassembled pieces floating in the air before their eyes, a testament to the Hero's control over unseen forces.

As the gang members stood petrified at the show of force, Danny continued his display of telekinetic mastery. With a subtle yet forceful push, he forced them into the ground, a demonstration of power that left an undeniable impression. The disarmed and incapacitated assailants found themselves at the mercy of the masked figure who had intervened to protect the victim.

The alley, once a scene of violence, now bore witness to the impressive capabilities of the mysterious guardian. The telekinetic display not only thwarted the immediate threat but also served as a powerful statement against the hate-driven actions of the Empire Eighty-Eight. Danny glanced at the victim, now free from danger but looked like he was only a few steps away from death.

Completely outraged, Danny unconsciously emanated an aura of intimidation that sent shivers down the spines of the Empire Eighty-Eight members. The air in the alley seemed to thicken with an unspoken threat as Danny, as Faust, stood tall and intimidating.

As he turned towards them, his masked visage, an embodiment of terror, bore down on the E88 members with an intensity that transcended the physical. The telekinetic display, coupled with the disarming and forceful gestures, reinforced the notion that they were dealing with a force of nature.

Danny's presence, a manifestation of the concept of hate and violence, loomed over the assailants. The masked figure's eyes, hidden behind the mask, conveyed a stern promise that echoed louder than words. The E88 members, now thoroughly intimidated, immediately bolted from the scene in utter terror.

The temptation to pursue the Empire Eighty-Eight thugs and extract information weighed on Danny's mind. He grappled with the desire to uncover details about the gang's operations, motivations, and potential threats they posed. The city's underbelly held many secrets, and Danny contemplated the possibility of gaining valuable insights that could aid in his mission, but he had to see to the victim first.

As Danny's penetrating gaze shifted from the retreating Empire Eighty-Eight members, it settled upon the victim of the assault. Observing closely, Faust couldn't ignore the telltale signs that suggested the victim was also associated with a gang, the ABB to be exact.

The alley, once a battleground between hate-fueled violence and masked justice, now stood in a tense silence. Danny, hidden behind the mask, regarded the victim with a mix of scrutiny and concern. The complexities of the situation were not lost on him, recognizing that the lines between victim and perpetrator could be blurred in a city ridden with gang conflicts.

In this moment of stillness, Faust contemplated the larger challenges facing Brockton Bay. The encounter had revealed not only the overt threats of hate groups but also the underlying tensions that fueled conflicts within the City. As Danny faced a city in need of healing and justice, he found that discerning friend from foe would prove to be an increasingly complex task.

He was brought out of his musing as the victim stirred and regained consciousness. The victim looked up only to find the imposing figure of Faust looming over him. Blinking away the remnants of the assault, the man's eyes met Faust's masked visage and paused.

"Thank you," he uttered eventually, a mix of gratitude and fear evident in his voice.

Danny, maintaining his enigmatic presence, only nodded in acknowledgment. As the man gathered himself, Faust slowly approached the man.

The man, now on his feet, took a moment to steady himself before extending a hand in gratitude. "I'm Wei," he introduced himself, his voice carrying a mix of pain, gratitude and terror.

Danny did not take the offered hand and Wei shifted his gaze in fear. As he did s, Danny noticed a wince of pain crossing his features. The physical toll of the recent altercation with the E88 became apparent. Bruises, cuts, or perhaps more severe injuries adorned Wei's form, serving as visible reminders of the dangers he faced.

Something that Wei seem to realize as well. Knowing that he would not be able to make it home safely, not in his condition, Wei looked at Danny and took a deep breath.

"I owe you big time, Faust. But I'm not out of the woods yet. These streets are dangerous, especially for someone like me, please, save me, bring me safely home and I will owe you. Anything you want, anything but betraying my friends. I....am willing to swear an oath on this" Wei begged, a hint of caution in his eyes.

Faust, still masked and resolute, recognized the vulnerability of Wei's situation. The cutthroat nature of the city's underworld were not lost on the masked guardian. With a nod, Faust conveyed a silent understanding, indicating a willingness to hear Wei out.

Danny, considering the delicate balance between justice and potential risks, finally spoke. "Wei, do you have any information about the Empire Eighty-Eight, their activities, members, or anything that could aid in protecting the city."

Wei nodded, claiming that he was an important member of the ABB and had access to valuable insights into the city's criminal underworld. "I've got a lot of dirt on the E88. Names, hideouts, the whole deal. You help me out of this mess, and I'll make sure you get everything we've got on them."

Danny then inquired about the ABB, particularly its notorious leader Lung. However, Wei, despite expressing gratitude and willingness to share information on the Empire Eighty-Eight, drew a clear line, showing a surprising amount of willpower.

"I won't betray Lung," Wei declared firmly, indicating a steadfast loyalty to the leader of the Asian Bad Boys. "Lung is the ABB and the ABB is Lung."

CHOICE TIME:
[] Leave Wei and go hunt down the E88 thugs.
-Wei is left in the middle of E88 territory and you are still there in the heart of E88 territory when they are now in high alert.

[] Escort Wei after making him swear an oath to send all the information he had access to about the E88 to Danny in a Fake account online.
-The amount of actual intelligence you can get is a question mark but you get out of E88 territory.

[] Escort Wei but he owes you a favor in the future.
-You lose access to any E88 information you may have gotten but you gain a favor from Wei, who is "important(???)" in the ABB and get out of E88 territory.

 

[Yzarc]

11th January 2011

Recognizing the urgency of Wei's situation and the potential dangers lurking within Empire Eighty-Eight territory, Danny offered a reassuring nod. "Let's get you out of here," he stated firmly, extending a supportive hand to assist Wei.

With careful steps, Faust guided Wei away from the alley, navigating the streets of the E88's domain. Each corner turned, each shadow traversed, carried with it the weight of uncertainty and danger. Yet, Danny remained resolute, his presence a comfort to the injured gangster.

As they ventured further from the scene of the altercation, Danny maintained a watchful vigil, ensuring that Wei remained safe from any potential threats. The journey through Empire Eighty-Eight territory was fraught with tension, but with Danny's guidance, Wei found solace in knowing that he was not alone.

Spoiler: Event roll

Roll: Nat 1 Event roll. You do not get out without a fight.

How Many? 5 Capes
Rolled 10, 9, 3, 1 and 4.

Eventually, they reached the outskirts of the E88's domain, where the oppressive atmosphere of the gang's influence began to dissipate. As Danny and Wei cautiously made their exit, Danny immediately saw it. A formidable group of E88 capes.

Among them stood Krieg, a towering figure emanating an aura of menace, alongside the formidable duo of Fenja and Menja, their imposing presence casting a shadow over the scene. Victor, with his calculating gaze, and Rune, standing on top of her floating platform, completed the intimidating lineup. The air crackled with tension as the E88 capes converged, their path heading straight towards Danny and Wei.

Sensing the imminent threat, Danny positioned himself protectively in front of Wei, his masked visage betraying none of the unease that stirred within him.

"We've got company," Danny remarked tersely, his voice steady despite the rising stakes. He assessed the situation, weighing the odds against the formidable opponents that stood before them.

Wei, though visibly shaken by the sudden confrontation, remained steadfast at Faust's side, his resolve bolstered by the masked guardian's unwavering presence.

As the gangster started panicking, Danny's gaze remained fixed on the approaching threat. Behind his mask, Danny weighed his options, his mind racing with the urgency of the situation.

With the E88 capes currently unaware of their exact location, Danny seized the opportunity to strategize. Sensing the imminent danger posed by the E88 capes, Danny quickly assessed their surroundings for potential hiding spots. With limited options available, he made a split-second decision to steer Wei towards the nearest dumpster.

"Quick, hide in there," Danny urged, his voice urgent as he directed Wei towards the concealed refuge. Despite Wei's protests and understandable reluctance, Danny's insistence left little room for debate.

Understanding the necessity of the action, Wei reluctantly complied, slipping into the confines of the dumpster with a mixture of apprehension and resignation. As he huddled within the makeshift sanctuary, Danny offered him a reassuring nod, silently promising to return for him once the immediate threat had passed.

With Wei concealed from view, Danny turned his focus back to the looming confrontation with Krieg and the other E88 capes. With each passing moment, the tension in the air thickened, setting the stage for a confrontation that would test Danny's resolve and determination to protect those in need.

As the tension reached its peak and the looming threat of confrontation with the Empire Eighty-Eight capes became unavoidable, Danny made a bold decision. With his heart pounding in his chest, he summoned his telekinetic powers, feeling the familiar surge of energy coursing through him.

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 6 / 7 (Soldier Archetype)

With a determined resolve, Danny lifted himself off the ground, defying gravity as he ascended towards the rooftop with effortless grace. As he reached the vantage point overlooking the scene below, he turned to face the approaching E88 capes, his masked visage a stoic mask of determination.

With a flourish, Danny revealed himself to the group, his presence commanding attention as he hovered above them, a silent guardian against the forces of oppression and injustice. The E88 capes, taken aback by his sudden appearance, paused in their advance, their expressions a mixture of surprise and apprehension.

In that moment, Danny's resolve solidified, his determination to protect Wei and confront the E88 capes unwavering. With his telekinetic powers at his command and justice on his side, he stood ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, prepared to defend the innocent and uphold the values of heroism that defined his mission as Faust.

Danny simply watched passively as they surrounded him, trying not to look bothered in the slightest.

As Victor, one of the Empire Eighty-Eight's capes, dropped down from Rune's platform and stepped forward to address Danny, the air crackled with tension.

Sensing Danny's tension, Victor's gaze sharpened, a hint of suspicion creeping into his expression. He took a step closer, his movements deliberate as he studied the masked figure standing before him.

"Something on your mind, Faust?" Victor inquired, his voice tinged with a note of curiosity. He could sense the underlying apprehension in Danny's demeanor, and it piqued his interest.

Danny, maintaining his composure, met Victor's gaze with a steady resolve. "Just contemplating my next move," he replied cryptically, his tone measured as he carefully chose his words.

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 5 / 7 (Failed roll)

Victor narrowed his eyes, his gaze searching for any sign of weakness or hesitation. "You seem...distracted," he remarked, his voice laced with skepticism.

Danny remained guarded, his mask betraying none of the inner turmoil that churned beneath the surface. "Just weighing my options," he replied evasively, his words a carefully crafted facade to conceal his true intentions.

As the tension between them lingered, Victor's suspicions remained unassuaged. With a final scrutinizing glance, he nodded curtly before turning away.

"We do not have to fight, Faust," Victor remarked, his tone laced with a thinly veiled attempt at diplomacy. "Consider joining our ranks. With your power and influence, you could be a valuable asset to the Empire Eighty-Eight."

Danny remained silent, his expression guarded as he weighed Victor's words. The temptation to wield his powers in service of a more formidable force tugged at the edges of his consciousness, to subsume it and make it his own, but it was just a fleeting thought and his commitment to justice burned bright.

"I appreciate the offer, Victor," Danny responded evenly, his voice carrying a note of resolve. "But my allegiance lies with the people of Brockton Bay and the values I hold dear. I won't be swayed by promises of power or influence."

Danny's words hung heavy in the air, before Victor countered, "Everyone has a price, Faust."

Victor's counter echoing with a chilling resonance as Danny's power almost responded to his words, almost. Danny, towering over Victor, instead met Victor's gaze with a mixture of defiance and skepticism.

"Is that what you believe, Victor?" Danny countered, his voice edged with incredulity. "That everything can be bought and sold, regardless of the cost?"

Victor's expression remained impassive, his confidence unshaken by Danny's skepticism. "In our line of work, power is the ultimate currency," he replied coolly. "And with your abilities, you could command a hefty price indeed."

Victor's words cut through Danny like a chilling wind, carrying with them the harsh reality of life in Brockton Bay. Danny felt the weight of Victor's assertion press heavily upon him.

But hardening his resolve, Danny reminded himself of his Daughter, his goals and his commitment to justice. Thus in the face of Victor's persuasive rhetoric he remained unconvinced. "I may not have the resources or influence of the Empire, Victor," he retorted, his voice tinged with resolve, "but I have something you'll never understand, integrity."

"Integrity may very well get me killed," Danny conceded, his voice tinged with a note of resignation, "but it's what keeps us human. It's what reminds us of our duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves."

Victor regarded Danny with a cold, calculating gaze, his skepticism evident in the set of his jaw. "You speak of duty and integrity as if they were virtues," he remarked derisively. "But in Brockton Bay, survival is the only law that matters. Independent heroes may start with noble intentions, but mark my words, they either join a gang or they end up dead."

Danny's resolve wavered for a moment, the weight of Victor's words bearing down upon him like a heavy burden. In a city where corruption and violence reigned supreme, the path of an independent hero seemed increasingly fraught with peril. But even in the face of such grim realities, Danny remained steadfast in his commitment to justice, knowing that his principles were the only thing standing between the innocent and the forces of darkness that threatened to consume them.

Danny's words echoed with a solemn resolve, his voice steady despite the weight of Victor's warning. "If my fate is to die defending what's right," he declared, his tone resolute, "then I will face it with honor. Better to die standing for something than to live with the stain of compromise. Better to die on my feet than live on my knees."

Gain 1 Willpower-> Now at 6 / 7 (First instill Intimacy of the scene, Victor "Respects" Faust)

Victor regarded Danny with a mixture of grudging respect and lingering skepticism, his expression betraying a hint of uncertainty. "Stubborn to the end, I see," he remarked, his tone tinged with a note of begrudging admiration. "Very well, Faust. But mark my words, Brockton Bay has a way of testing even the strongest convictions."

CHOICE TIME

Welp, you guys rolled a Nat 1 on the event roll and rolled 5 on how many capes you are facing.

Good News: If you win, you take out 5 Empire capes and find out a shit ton of info on them.
Bad news: You are fighting 5 Empire Capes.

You are facing: Krieg, Victor, Fenja & Menja and Rune.

[] Write in Plan of attack.

 

[Yzarc]

11th January 2011

The tension in the air was palpable as Krieg, the ruthless lieutenant of the Empire 88, stood at the head of his assembled capes. He opened his mouth to give the order to attack but froze immediately.

Lost 2 Willpower-> Now at 5 / 7

Krieg could only stand, frozen in horror, as Danny's transformation unfolded before his eyes. The once-familiar figure of Faust began to change, his form contorting and shifting until he stood before them as a robed figure, his cloak billowing around him in an unseen wind.

Things moved under the robe, writhing and squirming in ways that defied logic. Tentacles, tendrils, and other, more alien appendages twisted and turned beneath the fabric, giving him a monstrous and otherworldly appearance.

Krieg felt a chill run down his spine as he realized the full extent of Faust's power. This was no longer the hero he thought he had known. This was something else entirely, something beyond human comprehension.

As he watched, Krieg could see the tentacles under his robe extending, reaching upwards like the arms of some eldritch horror, raising a hammer that seemed to be made out of screaming souls. Fear gripped Krieg's heart, but he knew that he could not show weakness. With a shaky voice, he tried to muster his courage.

"What... what are you?" Krieg stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Danny's glowing eyes seemed to bore into Krieg's soul as he spoke, his voice deep and resonant.

"I am the guardian of this city, the protector of the innocent. I am the one who stands against the darkness that threatens to consume us all. I am Faust, and you will not harm another soul while I still draw breath."

As he said this, Danny's anima banner flared, a brilliant green light erupted from his body, illuminating the entire area with a blinding intensity. The light seemed to bend and twist, forming intricate patterns in the air above him. Suddenly, a giant image manifested above Danny, towering over him like a celestial being.

The image was that of a mighty demon, clad in flaming armor and wielding a sword that gleamed with a nuclear hatred. His features were monstrous and fierce, the eyes blazing with malice. Around him, a host of demonic figures appeared, their forms ethereal and radiant.

The sight was awe-inspiring, and even Krieg, who had been cowering in fear, looked up in wonder at the manifestation above him. The anima banner's power was unlike anything he had ever seen.

The Empire 88 capes hesitated, unsure of how to proceed. They had heard rumors of Faust's demon form, but seeing it in person was another matter entirely. Krieg, however, was undeterred. Embarrassed with his hesitation, he reacted with a snarl of rage and bellowed the order to attack but it was far too late.

The scene around Danny twisted and warped, the roof beneath his feet buckling and warping obscenely. Chains circled the building like serpents, and eldritch machinery assembled itself before him, each piece whirling and unfolding into a nightmarish parody of a factory floor.

A mob of blood-red apes appear around them and an Ape in a flat cap and Forman's uniform stood behind Danny

"What can we do for you, boss?" it asked, its voice a low, gravelly rumble.

Demon Workers: Urge: To Work.

Danny turned to the blood-red ape and the other demons, a plan forming in his mind. "The reason you're not able to work is because of the Empire 88 capes," he said, pointing at Krieg. "If you can help me deal with him, then you'll be free to go back to work."

The ape's eyes gleamed with a mix of malice and excitement. "Consider it done, boss. Those fu**ers won't know what hit 'em."

As the Demon Ape army surged forward, Danny's power twisted the very fabric of reality, forming a maze of walls and barriers that encased Victor in a trap. The Empire 88 Cape struggled to break free, but each attempt only seemed to tighten the grip of the mystical prison around him. His eyes blazed with fury as he realized the extent of Danny's power.

Desperate, Victor lashed out with all his might, unleashing a barrage of strikes against the walls around him. But Danny was relentless, his control over reality strengthening with each passing moment. With a final, defiant roar, Victor launched himself at the nearest wall, hoping to break free. But it was too late. The walls closed in around him, sealing his fate, his prison sinking into the floor.

As this was going on, Krieg, determined to turn the tide of battle, unleashed a devastating barrage of attacks on the demon army. He called forth bolts of pure motion, torrents of kinetic energy, and waves of force, directing them all at the advancing horde. However, despite the ferocity of his assault, the demons seemed unaffected. They shrugged off the attacks, their thick hides and supernatural resilience rendering Krieg's efforts futile.

Frustration and desperation gnawed at Krieg as he realized that his powers were useless against the demon army. With each failed attack, the demons drew closer, their malevolent eyes fixed on their target. Krieg knew that he had to find another way to defeat them, or all would be lost.

Recognizing the futility of attacking the seemingly impervious demon army directly, he shifted his strategy. Instead of launching a frontal assault, he focused on disrupting their unity and creating chaos among their ranks. With a wave of his hand, he sent a shockwave rippling through the ground, causing fissures to open up beneath the demon army's feet. Though he failed to do damage, he at least bought himself valuable time.

Immediately coming out of their stupor, Fenja, Menja, and Rune, the towering members of the Empire 88, launched themselves at Danny, their movements swift and coordinated. Fenja swung her massive axe, Menja lashed out with her spear, and Rune launched a massive boulder, all aiming to overwhelm him. However, Danny's reflexes were as quick as his powers were formidable.

With a graceful motion, Danny used his hammers that deflected Fenja's axe, Menja's spear and absorbed Rune's projectile. Effortlessly, he countered their attacks, his own strikes calculated and precise. With each parry, Danny seemed to gain a deeper understanding of his opponents' tactics, turning their own strength against them.

Fenja, Menja, and Rune, realizing that they were outmatched, regrouped, their expressions grim. Danny stood ready, his eyes locked on his adversaries. The battle was far from over, but Danny had proven that he was more than a match for the Empire 88's fiercest warriors.

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 4 / 7

As Rune gathered herself another attack, Danny's senses honed in on the source of her power. With a focused effort, he attempted to disrupt the flow of energy, aiming to usurp her control over her platform. However, Rune's mastery over her abilities proved too strong, and the energy continued to build.

But Danny timed it so he acted just as Rune was making her attack. Thus, Danny's disruption took effect at the best possible moment. The platform bucked and shuddered, its energies rebounding and causing a backlash. With a startled cry, Rune was thrown off balance, tumbling backward and colliding with a nearby obstacle. The impact was enough to knock her unconscious, her powers temporarily subdued.

Despite the small victory, he knew that the battle was far from over.

As Danny focused his attention on Fenja, he launched a series of precise strikes, aiming for vulnerable points in her armor. However, to his surprise, his attacks seemed to have no effect. Fenja's armor held firm against his blows, and she barely flinched under his assault.

With a roar, Fenja retaliated, swinging her massive axe at Danny with all her strength. The blade crashed down, but Danny managed to evade the brunt of the blow, his agility saving him from serious harm. Menja joined the fray, her spear whirling through the air as she aimed to impale Danny and leave him vulnerable to Fenja's attacks.

Despite their combined efforts, Danny remained unscathed, his hammer parrying all the attacks. With a deft movement, he disarmed Menja and sent her sprawling with a well-placed strike, doing no real damage as she was already getting up, reaching for her Spear. Fenja, seeing her sister fall, redoubled her efforts, but Danny was ready. He countered her attacks with ease, his movements fluid and precise.

AS they fought, they all heard a distinct sound, one that they all recognized. Armsmaster was nearly there. As the sounds of Armsmaster's approaching motorcycle grew louder, Krieg, Fenja, and Menja exchanged wary glances. They knew that facing the Protectorate hero along with Faust would be a battle they might not win. With a silent agreement, they turned and fled, disappearing into the shadows of the city, their retreat a strategic decision to fight another day, leaving behind Victor and the unconscious Rune.

CHOICE:
[] Go after them
[] Wait for Armsmaster but not before telling Wei to run.

So, how did the rolls go? Fairly good. Strategically taking out Victor netted you the biggest advantage, as did sending the Demon army to bog down Krieg. Rune, Fenja and Menja could not get past HGD but you could not harm them either.

What happened to Rune? She was flying in the air and you tried to use Counter magic. While you failed to get the Target Number, as she was using it to fly, it disrupted her control and she failed the Atheletics roll to not fall off.

 

[Yzarc]

11th January 2011

---

Wei cowered in the darkness of the dumpster, his heart pounding in fear. The sounds of the ongoing battle had stopped, and he held his breath, hoping that the E88 Capes would not notice him.

To his horror, the lid of the dumpster was suddenly ripped open with a surge of telekinetic force and he rose in the air, seeing the towering figure of Faust in his terrifying changer form. Wei whimpered, trying to go back into the corner of the dumpster, his eyes wide with terror.

"Please," Wei pleaded, his voice trembling.

Faust regarded Wei with an indifferent gaze, his voice cold and menacing. "We have an agreement, Wei. I plan to keep it and I suggest you do the same."

Faust leaned forward, his voice low and commanding. "The Empire 88 capes have fled, and Armsmaster is on his way. You will need to leave before his arrival. If you value your freedom, you will do exactly as I say."

With a flick of his hand, Faust indicated the direction opposite to where Armsmaster would be coming from, towards the territory controlled by the ABB. Immediately Wei dropped down on the ground.

"Go," Faust ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Leave this place. If you are wise, you will disappear into the night and never speak of this encounter to anyone."

Wei nodded frantically, understanding that his only chance at freedom lay in obeying Faust's command. With one last fearful glance at the towering figure before him, he scrambled out of the alley and fled into the darkness, his heart racing with fear and relief.

---

As Wei fled into the night, Danny focused his powers through the Crown, seeking to glean information from the young man's mind. With a surge of energy, he asked the Question, 'What does Wei know about the ABB and its members?'

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 3/7. Use the Crown of Truth.

Instantly, Wei's memories flooded into Danny's mind. He saw glimpses of conversations, meetings, and dealings with the Asian Bad Boys (ABB), the rival gang to the Empire 88. Wei had been a fairly high-ranking member of the ABB and was part of many discussions about the ABB's operations, territory, and plans. The biggest jackpot was the information on the ABB capes, Lung and Oni Lee and their plan to recruit a third.

Lung, also known as Kenta, was a powerful and infamous villain in the Brockton Bay. He was a tall, muscular man who could grow dragon-like features, including scales and clawed hands, which became more pronounced as he used his powers.

Lung, in addition to transforming into a dragon-like creature, also had a form of pyrokinesis. The transformation starts with small scales appearing on his skin and his body growing in size. As he continues to fight, he becomes larger and more draconic, with his strength, speed, and durability increasing dramatically. In his full dragon form, Lung is a towering, fire-breathing behemoth capable of immense destruction and fighting Leviathan in single combat.

Lung's power has a unique aspect in that it grows stronger the longer he fights. The more damage he takes, the more he heals and grows in power, making him a formidable opponent in prolonged battles.

Then there was Oni Lee. Oni Lee, a notorious villain, was known for his distinctive appearance, wearing a mask of a traditional Japanese oni.

His power was a form of teleportation combined with duplication. He could create up to three duplicates of himself, each with the ability to teleport short distances. These duplicates were indistinguishable from the original and can also create their own duplicates, leading to a rapidly expanding army of clones.

Each time Oni Lee teleported, he left behind a brief afterimage, making it difficult for opponents to track his movements. This, combined with his ability to rapidly create duplicates, makes him a highly elusive and unpredictable combatant.

Then he was hit by the final piece of information and Danny's heart sank at the implications of what he had learned. Lung was planning to recruit the Cornell Bomber, a notorious villain known for her destructive and indiscriminate bombings. A bomb thinker.

As the memories receded, Danny knew that he had gained valuable information that could be used against the ABB. With a sense of purpose, he turned his attention back to the arriving Armsmaster, knowing that the night's events were far from over, his mind already working on how to handle the hero. This night was far from over, and Danny knew that he would need to be at the top of his game to outmaneuver Armsmaster and emerge victorious.

---

Armsmaster raced through the city streets, his motorcycle roaring beneath him as he rushed towards the fight. As he rounded a corner, he caught sight of his quarry ahead, their figures disappearing into the darkness.

After the sheer chaos following Faust's total destruction of the Merchants and the Brockton Bay Drug trade, the PRT or more specifically Piggot vastly overextended, using the excuse of Parahuman powers to arrest the crooked cops and other Gang sympathizers who were named in the investigation. A laudable effort to clean up the corruption exposed in the various departments.

But angered by the overreach of authority, the Police and other departments struck back, publicly exposing a frightening amount of corruption in the PRT, running their name through the mud, or at least started doing so.

Though the Proctorate had been largely distanced from this, Armsmaster knew that he had to gain some impressive victories if he wanted to get out of this completely unscratched. Thus when the Light show appeared and reports of the Empire fighting Faust came in, he rushed to the fight. Determined to catch the Empire Capes, he pushed his bike to its limits, the wind whipping past him.

With a massive boost, Armsmaster's motorcycle soared through the night sky, crashing into the roof of the building where the fighting was going on. The impact was jarring and letting out a silent groan, he staggered to his feet, his armor battered but otherwise undamaged. He looked around, his eyes narrowing as he spotted Faust, in his changer form, standing before him.

Armsmaster knew that if he fought Faust, he would be in a tough fight. But Armsmaster was not one to back down from a challenge. Armsmaster approached the transformed Faust, his expression unreadable as he surveyed the scene before him. He noted the unconscious form of Rune, the imprisoned Victor, and a number of Red, spiky Gorillas.

"Faust, what is going on here?" Armsmaster demanded, his voice firm.

Faust straightened, his demeanor displaying a more serious, almost soldier-like bearing and nothing like what Velocity had reported. He looked at Armsmaster with a steady gaze, as if weighing his words carefully before speaking.

"Armsmaster, what you see here is the result of the Empire's attack against me," Faust began, his voice steady and authoritative. "I was attacked by Krieg, Fenja, Menja, Rune and Victor. I transformed and summoned the army" He gestures to the Red Gorillas, "and captured Rune and Victor. The rest fled the moment they knew you were nearly here. Thank you for that."

He gestured towards Rune and Victor. "Victor's capture was a tactical decision. He had no real powers beyond being skilled so capturing him was easy. Rune was tricker but during the battle, she fell from her platform."

Armsmaster listened to Faust's explanation, his mind working to separate truth from deception. His lie detector indicated that Faust was telling the truth about Victor's capture, but he couldn't shake his suspicions about Rune's fall. Faust's account seemed plausible, but there was a nagging doubt in the back of Armsmaster's mind.

"Thank you for the explanation," Armsmaster said, his tone neutral. "I will take both Victor and Rune into custody. As for you, Faust, I suggest you cooperate if you want to help Brockton Bay as you stated to Velocity."

Faust nodded, his expression unreadable. "I understand," he replied. "I will cooperate fully."

Faust then turned his attention to the Red Demonic Ape army. "The army you see before you is my projection." He waved his arm and the army vanished. Faust's revelation about the Red Gorillas being a projection took Armsmaster by surprise. Armsmaster's expression remained unreadable as he processed this information, his mind racing with the implications.

"I need your help with Victor though" Faust said, knocking Armsmaster out of his thoughts.

Faust's request took Armsmaster by surprise. He had expected Faust to be more antagonistic, but the independent Hero's willingness to seek his help was unexpected. Despite his reservations, Armsmaster knew that capturing Victor was paramount, and if Faust was willing to cooperate, he would take advantage of the opportunity.

"Very well," Armsmaster said, his voice firm. "I will help you subdue Victor. But I will not tolerate any further injuries on the Prisoners. Rune will need medical attention after this and you are lucky it was the result of her fall and not because of you."

Faust nodded in agreement, and with a wave of his hand, he released Victor from his prison as the earth shifted and walls sank down into the ground. Armsmaster wasted no time, swiftly moving in to sedate Victor before the villain could react. With a powerful tranquilizer dart, Victor was rendered unconscious, his threat neutralized.

Armsmaster then looked at Faust, his expression stern. "I need you to stop the light show and drop your changer form," he said firmly.

Faust nodded and with a wave of his hand, the changer form dissipated. The dazzling light parallelly show faded, leaving Faust standing before Armsmaster in his human form once more.

Armsmaster watched closely, ready to act if Faust tried anything suspicious. To his surprise, Faust compiled without resistance, his demeanor calm and controlled. Armsmaster couldn't help but feel a sense of respect for Faust's willingness to cooperate.

"Thank you, Faust," Armsmaster said, his tone sincere. "You've made the right choice. Now, let's secure the Prisoners. The Protectorate is on the way. They will be here in another five to ten minutes. We need to guard the Prisoners till they arrive"

"Before that, a Warning," Faust began, "Just found out that Lung is looking to recruit a tinker, a Bomb tinker. She's an Asian woman, University age. Recently was on the news as the Cornell Bomber."

Faust's warning about Lung's intentions regarding the Cornell Bomber caught Armsmaster's attention. The thought of Lung recruiting such a dangerous individual was troubling, especially considering the devastation the Cornell Bomber's bombs could have caused had they not been stopped by the New York Protectorate.

"A young woman of Asian descent?" Armsmaster murmoured under his breath, his brow furrowing in concern. "A bomb tinker... That could be highly problematic."

Faust nodded, his expression grave. "Indeed. Lung sees her as a valuable asset, someone who can provide him with the firepower he wants. You need to arrest her, quick."

Armsmaster agreed with that sentiment and knew that the information was valuable. With a nod of thanks to Faust, he activated his communicator, relaying the information to the PRT and requesting immediate permission to investigate the Cornell Bomber.

With that, Armsmaster turned his attention to Victor and Rune, preparing to take them into custody. As he did so, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Faust's story than met the eye. The truth would eventually come to light, but for now, Armsmaster had a job to do.

---

Knowing he would not get another chance, Danny used the power of his Crown on Victor and Rune, asking the Question, 'What does they know about the E88'

Lost 2 Willpower-> Now at 1/7. Use the Crown of Truth.

Instantly, their memories flooded into Danny's mind. He saw glimpses of conversations, plans, and secrets that the Empire 88 had kept hidden. Victor knew about the Empire's smuggling operations, their plans to expand their territory, and their dealings with other villainous groups. Rune, on the other hand, knew about the Empire's internal structure, their leaders, and their connections to other organizations.

With this newfound knowledge, Danny knew that he had gained valuable insight into the Empire 88's operations. Armed with this information, he could work to dismantle the Empire from within, striking at its heart and bringing about its downfall. With a sense of determination, Danny turned his attention back to Armsmaster, knowing that the battle against the Empire was far from over.

---

Note: So in other news, Armsmaster rolled surprisingly well in social combat. His Social algorithms troubled Danny more than Armsmaster normally would have but ultimately failed to a Social specced Exalt. Those +1s really came in handy

IC CHOICE TIME:
[] Pass on the information on both the E88 and ABB to Armsmaster anonymously.
-This preserves your anonymity but they may not take it seriously.

[] Pass on the information to Armsmaster as Faust.
-They take it seriously but as a result, all of Brockton Bay will know that Faust has some sort of thinker power.

OOC Choose 2: (Since you got info on ABB, E88 and punched people in the face, the ABB action and Go out and punch people action have become redundant. So You can choose two of the following)

[] Go in for Power testing.
[] Look up the Pros and Cons of being a Protectorate Hero. Maybe they are not useless?
[] Forge Alliances with Local Heroes, Procetorate
[] Forge Alliances with Local Heroes, New Wave
[] The Lawyer PI want to meet you. Apparently the Police Department has reached out to them and they told you that you kicked a hornet's nest, Especially with Brandish on the Warpath. They want to meet you, preferably this week. (NEW)
[] Faultline told you of some locations in Brockton Bay to make your Lair. Perhaps you can go visit them? You do not have the cash to buy them yet but at least checking them out will not hurt. (NEW)

 

[Yzarc]

12th January 2011
Armsmaster, Director Piggot, and the rest of the Protectorate and senior PRT members gathered in a conference room to discuss the results of Faust's fight with the Empire capes and his subsequent power testing.

Armsmaster stood before the gathered team, the holographic display showing the events of Faust's confrontation with Krieg, Fenja, Menja, Rune, and Victor.

"Faust's powers proved to be formidable," Armsmaster began, his voice measured. "He was able to hold off the combined assault of Krieg, Fenja, Menja, Rune, and Victor, using his shaker abilities to create barriers and traps."

He gestured to the holographic display which changed, now showing Faust's strategic use of his powers to outmaneuver and overpower his opponents. "Despite their best efforts, Faust managed to capture Victor and Rune," Armsmaster continued. "It was a calculated move, using his powers to incapacitate them while dealing with the rest of the group, though he claims that Rune fell off her platform during the fighting."

He paused, his gaze thoughtful. "However, we should not discount the possibility that Rune's fall was not accidental. It's possible that he orchestrated her fall."

The team listened intently, absorbing the information and considering its implications. Faust's display of power was impressive, and it was clear that he was not to be underestimated.

"Convincing Faust to come in for power testing was no easy feat," Armsmaster began. "He is a cautious individual, wary of authority and suspicious of our motives. However, I was able to appeal to his sense of logic and reason, explaining that the testing was routine and necessary for his own safety and the safety of others."

"Before I continue however, I've noticed a pattern in Faust's mannerisms that leads me to believe his powers may have an effect on his mental state," Armsmaster began. "Going over all of the Protectorate's encounters with Faust and after going through interviews, I've observed Faust displaying different mannerisms and behaviors, especially when he is in his changer form."

"Is he unstable?" Velocity asked. "The last thing we need is a Cape as powerful as Faust being batshit insane."

Velocity's question about Faust's stability prompted Armsmaster to clarify his observations. "I don't believe Faust is unstable in the traditional sense," Armsmaster explained. "His behavior seems more controlled and calculated, suggesting that his powers may be more nuanced than simple instability."

He continued, "It's possible that Faust's powers include another thinker aspect, allowing him to project a personality that he knows his opponents will react to in a positive or negative way. This would give him an advantage, allowing him to manipulate his enemies' perceptions and reactions."

He gestured to the holographic display, now showing footage of Faust's different forms and behaviors. "When Faust was transformed, his demeanor was different. He was more aggressive, more unpredictable. It's as if his powers are amplifying certain aspects of his personality."

"Another Thinker Aspect" Piggot asked sharply.

"Yes, Director Piggot," Armsmaster replied. "Faust's submission of detailed information about both the Empire and the ABB suggests a primary thinker aspect to his powers. It's possible that he has the ability to gather and process information at an accelerated rate, allowing him to gather intelligence and make strategic decisions with remarkable efficiency."

Piggot's expression was thoughtful as she considered this new information. "If that's the case, then we need to be even more cautious in our approach to Faust," she said. "His thinker abilities could give him a significant advantage in planning and executing his actions if directed against us."

Armsmaster nodded in agreement. "Agreed, Director. We'll need to be prepared for anything when dealing with Faust. We can't afford to underestimate him."

Piggot nodded and Armsmaster continued.

He then turned his attention to Faust's changer form. "When Faust transforms, he gains additional abilities, including a shaker aspect to his powers," Armsmaster continued. "This allows him to manipulate the world around him, creating barriers, traps, and other effects that can hinder or incapacitate his opponents."

Armsmaster continued his briefing, detailing Faust's abilities in more depth. "In addition to his Shaker powers, Faust has demonstrated the ability to summon and control large numbers of gorilla-like projections," he explained. "These creatures seem to be under his complete control, obeying his commands without question."

"Faust has further demonstrated the ability to manipulate objects with telekinesis," he explained. "This telekinetic ability allows him to move objects with his mind, giving him a versatile and powerful tool in combat."

He gestured to a holographic display showing simulations of Faust using his telekinetic abilities. "Faust's telekinesis is not as powerful as some parahumans with similar powers, but his control is very refined," Armsmaster continued. "He has shown the ability to use it for fine manipulation and also is able to lift and throw objects weighing several tons."

Armsmaster stood at the head of the table, a holographic display of Faust's powers hovering in front of him. "Based on the test results, Faust's powers are incredibly versatile," he began.

Armsmaster then continued, providing more information about the nature of Faust's powers. "We've conducted extensive testing on Faust's oath powers via volunteers," he began. "And we've determined that he can only compel individuals to either do something or refrain from doing something. This limitation seems to be a fundamental aspect of Faust's abilities."

He gestured to the holographic display, showing examples of Faust's powers in action. "When Faust uses his oath powers, he must specify the action he wants the individual to take or refrain from taking," Armsmaster explained. "Once the oath is….."sanctified", the individual is compelled to comply, or face the consequences."

Armsmaster's briefing continued, delving deeper into the effects of Faust's oath powers. "We've also confirmed that individuals who break an oath sworn to Faust suffer from what appears to be 'bad luck'," he explained. "This effect is not a master power, as we initially suspected, but rather a global shaker power that affects the world around the oathbreaker."

He gestured to the holographic display, showing data and examples of the "bad luck" phenomenon. "When someone breaks an oath to Faust, they seem to become more prone to accidents, misfortune, and other negative events," Armsmaster continued. "This effect is not limited to the oathbreaker but can also affect those around them, creating a ripple effect of 'bad luck'."

Armsmaster paused and continued his explanation. "To stop the penalty of 'bad luck' incurred by breaking an oath to Faust, the individual must seek forgiveness from Faust and undertake a new task assigned by the Faust,"

This added an additional layer of complexity to dealing with Faust. Not only did oathbreakers suffer from the effects of "bad luck," but they also had to seek forgiveness and complete a new task assigned by Faust, further cementing his control over them.

"This aspect of Faust's powers makes it even more important for us to prevent oathbreakers from falling under his influence," Armsmaster continued. "We must be vigilant in protecting individuals from making oaths to Faust and ensure that those who do are aware of the consequences."

"So all that on top of a decent Brute rating? Man, some people have all the luck." Assault whined, earning a smack from Battery.

"Our analysis of Faust's abilities has been inconclusive regarding a brute rating. While he has displayed abilities that could be interpreted as brute-like, they are not consistent. He was able to react to Velocity for example, yet he was unable to display such reaction times to other individuals. We believe that his powers more resemble a breaker state than a normal brute power." Armsmaster paused and hesitated before looking at Piggot who nodded.

"It's possible that Faust can partially transform into his changer form, allowing him to alter his physical form, creating the illusion of enhanced strength or durability. This would explain why his abilities seem to mimic those of a brute but without consistent displays of a Brute rating."

Armsmaster addressed the team, providing further insight into Faust's limitations. "According to Faust, his changer form can only be used a limited number of times," he began. "Additionally, he claims that his shaker powers and summoning abilities can only be utilized while he is in his changer form."

He continued, "This limitation suggests that Faust's changer form is not something he can maintain indefinitely, and that he must conserve its use for strategic purposes."

Armsmaster then recounted his experience upon arriving at the rooftop where Faust had been. "When I arrived, the rooftop resembled more of a factory floor than a typical rooftop," he explained. "There were various structures and machinery present, indicating the extent of Faust's shaker powers in his changer form."

He gestured to a holographic display showing the rooftop transformation. "However, when Faust dropped his changer form, the changes faded, restoring the rooftop to its previous condition."

Director Piggot addressed the gathered group, her expression serious as she surveyed the room. "I'd like to hear your opinions on our current situation with Faust," she began. "We've gathered a considerable amount of information about his powers and capabilities, but we still have much to learn."

She turned to Armsmaster. "Armsmaster, what is your assessment of Faust's threat level? Do you believe we have the resources and strategies in place to deal with him effectively?"

Armsmaster considered the question carefully before responding. "I believe Faust is a high-level threat," he said. "His powers are formidable and versatile, and he has proven himself to be a cunning and resourceful adversary. However, I believe that with the right approach and the proper resources, we can neutralize the threat he poses."

Armsmaster then outlined a strategy for dealing with Faust, emphasizing the need for caution and precision. "First and foremost, do not make any promises in earshot of Faust," he instructed. "His oath powers are triggered by promises, so we must avoid making any commitments that could give him an advantage."

He continued, "Secondly, we should stick to ranged attacks and use numbers to keep him off balance. Faust's powers are most effective at close range, so keeping our distance and overwhelming him with firepower will be our best chance at neutralizing him."

Piggot nodded, acknowledging his assessment. She then turned to the rest of the team. "I'd like to hear from the rest of you," she said. "What are your thoughts on Faust and how do you believe we should proceed in dealing with him?"

"We should recruit him." Velocity blurted out, not realizing he had said it out loud.

This surprised some members of the team and he felt that he needed to explain, "If we could convince Faust to work with us, we could potentially harness his powers to clean up the Bay and the PRT. He has shown a willingness to cooperate under certain circumstances, I say we go for it."

Director Piggot immediately disagreed "While Faust's powers could potentially help us uncover traitors, using them in this manner would be a violation of our principles and the rights of our members. We must find other ways to address this issue without resorting to Parahumans to do this, the PRT was made to govern the Protectorate not the other way round."

Director Piggot's stance on using parahumans to uncover traitors in the PRT caused tension to rise quickly among the team.

"Director Piggot, with all due respect, I believe you should consider all options," Armsmaster spoke up. "The members of the Protectorate have unique abilities that could be invaluable in rooting out traitors. You shouldn't dismiss our help so easily."

Piggot remained steadfast in her position. "I understand your concerns, but we must adhere to our principles," she replied. "Using parahumans in this manner would only serve to undermine the trust and integrity of the PRT. We will find another way to address this issue, one that aligns with our values."

The tension in the room was palpable as the team grappled with Piggot's decision. They knew that finding a solution without using parahumans would be challenging.

"Is he secretly Eidolon in disguise?" Assault loudly asks suddenly.

Assault's question about Faust being secretly Eidolon was met with a mixture of amusement and confusion from the team. Director Piggot raised an eyebrow, clearly taken aback by the unexpected question.

"Assault, I think we can safely assume that such rumors are nothing more than wild speculation," Armsmaster replied, his tone tinged with amusement. "Let's focus on the task at hand and leave the conspiracy theories for another time."

The team chuckled at the lighthearted moment, grateful for the brief reprieve from the tension.

"How powerful is Faust?" Miss Militia speaks up, quickly changing the subject.

Armsmaster addressed Miss Militia's question about Faust's threat level. "While Faust may not be at the same level as Lung, he is still one of the most powerful parahumans currently in Brockton Bay," he explained. "He has demonstrated the ability to take on multiple other parahumans and emerge victorious. His powers are versatile and unpredictable, making him a significant threat."

"How complete is the information provided by Faust?" Triumph asked.

"The information Faust has provided is very complete," Armsmaster explained. "He has given us detailed insights into the operations and structures of both the Empire and the ABB. If we act quickly and decisively, we can use this information to cripple both organizations and significantly weaken their hold on the city."

Director Piggot's response was immediate and firm. "We cannot act on unverified information from a potentially unstable parahuman," she stated. "While Faust's information may be valuable, we need to corroborate it through other means before we can take any action. We cannot risk making a mistake that could have serious consequences."

"We need to gather more intelligence and verify Faust's claims before we can proceed," Piggot continued. "I want everyone to focus on gathering as much information as possible about the Empire and the ABB. We will not make any moves until we are certain of our course of action."

Armsmaster stepped forward, his tone measured and barely kept the bitterness out of his voice. "Director Piggot, while I understand your concerns, I must emphasize that Faust's information has already proven to be of use," he began. "The Cornell Bomber case, which Faust provided information on, was handed over to the New York Protectorate, who successfully captured the tinker responsible."

He continued, "Faust's information has been accurate and valuable so far. We cannot afford to dismiss it now, especially when we have a chance to cripple the Empire and the ABB. We should act on this opportunity before it slips away."

The tension in the room rose palpably as Director Piggot remained steadfast in her decision not to act on Faust's information. Armsmaster, sensing the urgency of the situation, stepped forward once again, his voice edged with determination.

"Director Piggot, we cannot afford to ignore this opportunity, not with how the PRT is being dragged through the mud," he insisted. "We need results and we need them fast."

Piggot's expression remained stern, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. She knew that Armsmaster had a point, but she was also wary of the risks involved in acting on unverified information from a parahuman.

"Armsmaster, I understand your concerns, but we must proceed with caution," she replied. "We cannot rush into this without verifying Faust's information. We will continue to gather intelligence and assess the situation before making any decisions."

The tension in the room remained as the team grappled with the conflicting viewpoints. They knew that the stakes were high, and the decisions they made could have far-reaching consequences. They were facing a critical moment in their efforts to combat the gangs, and the outcome would depend on their ability to navigate the challenges ahead.

"Perhaps we should involve the Police in this? As a Peace offering?" Vice Director Rennick suggested trying to lower tensions.

It worked at first as the Vice Director's suggestion to deescalate the situation by sending some of the information to the police and working with them as a peace offering was met with thoughtful consideration by the team.

But the Vice Director's suggestion was met with a dissenting opinion from Armsmaster. He raised his concerns, "While I understand the intention behind the suggestion, I believe we should prioritize our efforts internally first. Sharing sensitive information with the police could compromise our operations and put our agents at risk."

"You want the PRT and the Protectorate to handle the entire thing?" Piggot asked.

"We must acknowledge the strained relationship between the PRT and the police force," Armsmaster replied. "The recent events, including Brandish's support for the arrest of Shadowstalker's civilian identity, have further complicated matters and eroded trust between the two organizations." He paused, "We cannot afford to be constrained by inter-department politics."

Director Piggot's reaction to the reminder of her blunder was palpable, but she acknowledged the reality of the situation. "You're right," she conceded with gritted teeth. "The relationship with the police is strained, and we cannot ignore the fact that not all moles from the police department were captured."

She paused, a hint of frustration in her voice. "We need to find a way to rebuild trust with the police and address the remaining issues within our own organization. Let's break for now. We can revisit this once we have cooled off, Dismissed."

CHOICE:
You have 4 Willpower not used in Power Testing.

[] Ask Questions (Up to a max of 4)
-[] (WHO/WHAT) (Question)

PLEASE NOTE: Questions must be Directly related to the person/item. I.e What does THIS person know about X. It CANNOT be indirect. So no "What does this person's GRANDMOTHER know about X"

[] Do not ask questions.

 

[Yzarc]

13th January 2011
Danny and Taylor sat nervously in the lawyer's office, waiting for the meeting to begin. Margret, their lawyer, sat across from them, flipping through a stack of papers with a focused expression.

"Thank you for coming in today," Margret began. "I know we spoke briefly on the phone but it seems that things are happening in the background that you need to be made aware of."

"Before we proceed," Margret stated, "I want to make sure you both are comfortable speaking with officer Wilson, the officer investigating the case."

She then turned to Taylor.

"Ms. Hebert, I know you said that you want to give your statement but you've just woken up. If you're not up for this, we can always do it later. It was brave of you to give us your diaries, but it is ok if you want some more time" Margret said, with a gentle expression.

Taylor took a moment to collect herself before nodding.

"I'm okay. I am ready, let's...get this over with." she replied, her voice wavering slightly.

Margret smiled warmly. "Thank you, Ms. Hebert. You're a brave young woman. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or need a break, you can stop."

With Taylor's reassurance, Margret turned back to Danny who nodded back.

"One last thing Danny, I understand you have questions about the PI, James," Margret said. "Due to the circumstances of your case, it was taken up directly by the police department. James only managed a preliminary check before it was taken out of his hands. We've spoken and he will not be charging you for what little he did."

Danny nodded, grateful. "Thank you for letting us know," he replied.

Margret noded. "Of course, Danny. If you have any more questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask."

On the confirmation, she pressed the intercom button. "The client wants to proceed with the meeting. Jessie, please send in James and Officer Wilson."

A minute passed and there was a knock at the door. James, the private investigator they had hired, entered the room, followed by Officer Wilson.

"James, Officer Wilson, this is Danny Hebert and his daughter Taylor," Margret introduced, gesturing to her clients.

"Nice to meet you," James greeted, shaking their hands. "I've been looking into the case, and…..well things blew up, in a good way for the both of you."

Officer Wilson nodded in agreement. "I've been working on gathering evidence, and I think we're nearly ready to take it to the next level," he added.

As the officer finished speaking, James cleared his throat and addressed Danny and Taylor. "I just want to clarify my involvement in the case. I was doing a basic check as part of my preliminary investigation, when I came across a number of concerning issues."

He paused, choosing his words carefully. "I reached out to my contacts in the police department to discuss these findings, and it was at that point that they told me to step away from the case."

Danny and Taylor exchanged a glance, absorbing this new information. It was clear that the case was more complex than they had initially thought.

"Thank you for your honesty, James," Danny said, breaking the silence before looking at officer Wilson.

Officer Wilson then addressed Danny and Taylor. "I want to be upfront with you both," he began. "There are a number of issues regarding the case that I cannot explain at this time."

James nodded in agreement. "Nothing good will come from meddling," he added. "Best you two don't get any more involved than you already are."

Margret, who was listening intently, furrowed her brow. "Is there a problem, James?" she asked, noticing the serious look on his face.

James hesitated for a moment before responding. "Not if you don't look too deep," he said cryptically, exchanging a long look with Officer Wilson. "Let's just say that the girls have, or rather had, friends in high places."

Margret's expression darkened, understanding the implications of James's words.

Officer Wilson cleared his throat, directing his attention to Taylor. "Ms. Hebert, I understand this may be difficult, but I will need to take your statement regarding your ordeal," he began. "If you're not comfortable talking about it now, we can schedule another time for me to come back."

Taylor took a moment to collect her thoughts before nodding. "I'm ready to talk," she said, her voice steady.

Officer Wilson nodded in understanding. "Thank you, Ms. Hebert. I will do my best to make this as comfortable for you as possible," he assured her.

But before the interview began, James stood up and cleared his throat, gaining the attention of everyone in the room. "My involvement in this case is over," he began. "I've completed my job and it's time for me to step back. I want to thank Margaret for the opportunity to assist and I wish both of you the best moving forward." he said and walked towards the door.

As James was leaving, Danny quietly activated the Crown of Truth, using its power to ask, "What does he know about the case?"

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 6/7.

The Crown's power surged through him, and he felt a rush of information flooding his mind. He saw glimpses of James's findings, the leads he had followed, and the connections he had made. Danny's eyes widened as he processed the information, realizing the significance of James's discoveries.

As Danny sat in the meeting room, his thoughts were a whirlwind of confusion and disbelief. The information from the Crown of Truth had revealed a shocking truth, the PRT, the very organization meant to protect people like him and Taylor, was involved with one of the girls in the case. And to make matters worse, James suspected that she was a parahuman under their Wards program.

Danny felt a mix of anger and betrayal. How could the PRT, an organization sworn to uphold justice, be involved in such a way? And what did it mean for their case?

Danny leaned back in his chair, reflecting on James's warning. It all made sense now, James had known about the PRT's involvement with one of the girls and the potential risks it posed. That was why he had urged them not to get too involved, to tread carefully.

Danny shook his head, pushing aside his thoughts about James for the moment. He turned his attention to Officer Wilson, who was now taking Taylor's statement.

As he listened to Taylor recount her ordeal, Danny felt a swell of pride. She was strong, resilient, and he knew that together, they would get through this. He made a mental note to be there for her, to support her in any way he could. But first…..

"Why is the Police so eager to pursue this case?"

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 5/7.

As Danny used the Crown of Truth on Officer Wilson, he found himself delving into the consequences of his actions at the Merchant gathering. What he discovered shocked him, when he, as Faust, had tricked everyone into breaking their oaths, it had caused a ripple effect that reverberated throughout Brockton Bay.

The broken oaths had led to chaos and confusion among the Merchants and drug dealers, with many of them turning against each other.

The revelations from Officer Wilson's memories were unsettling. As they turned on each other, offering up information to save themselves, they exposed a web of corruption that extended far beyond their ranks. Many police officers and government officials were implicated, their involvement in illegal activities laid bare.

Danny realized that his actions had inadvertently sparked a chain reaction that was now unraveling the city's criminal underworld and exposing corruption within the Government and police force.

Something that Director Piggot apparently took advantage of. Seeing an opportunity in the chaos caused by his actions and using it as leverage to assert her jurisdiction, she pounced on the opportunity to arrest many crooked cops and officials. Piggot argued that with parahuman involvement, the PRT was better equipped to handle the situation and ensure that justice was served.

The remaining police officers and many slighted government officials deeply resented Director Piggot for this. They saw it as a naked power grab, a way for the PRT to expand its influence at their expense, with the police and others feeling sidelined and marginalized in the face of Piggot's authority.

The power struggle between the PRT and the police department was reaching a boiling point and the police, resentful of the PRT's interference, saw them as nothing more than glorified gang members complete with Parahuman enforcers. On the other hand, the PRT viewed the police as obstructionists and dead weights.

When James brought this case to them, they jumped at the opportunity to strike back, by targeting one of her wards. They were eager to expose any wrongdoing and undermine Piggot's authority, seizing the chance to assert their own power.

As tensions mounted, the city of Brockton Bay became a battleground for control and authority. Both sides were determined to come out on top.

The biggest break was when one of the girls, Madison Clements, confessed everything to the cops and gave proof in the form of phone texts in exchange for clemency.

Her confession resulted in a major breakthrough in the case. Her cooperation with the police provided crucial evidence that allowed the police to bring the other two girls in for questioning.

Emma was currently in police custody being questioned, Alan apparently unable to protect her. But the other girl, Sophia was taken away by the PRT who denied the Police's authority by citing parahuman involvement. This blatant disrespect infuriated the Police even more

The PRT's decision further fueled the tension between the two organizations. The police saw it as a complete and total disregard for their jurisdiction and a challenge to their authority. The power struggle between the PRT and the police department escalated rapidly, with both sides becoming increasingly hostile towards each other.

This was where Brandish came in like a bull in a china shop, throwing her support behind the Police Department. Her support added jet fuel to the fire, injecting a new dynamic into the power struggle. Her backing lent more credibility and strength to the police department's position and her actions further complicated an already tense situation, setting the stage for a showdown between the PRT and the police department.

How all of this was not in the public news, Danny did not know. He could only shake his head even as the officer thanked them for their time and left with copies of Taylor's diary and other evidence.

As the door closed, they remained silent before Margret let out a sigh.

"Well, that was certainly something," Margret remarked, breaking the silence that had settled over the room. "It looks like things are moving forward at breakneck speeds, but we need to be prepared for whatever comes next." She glanced at Danny and Taylor, her expression thoughtful.

"Blackwell is under investigation for 'obstructing an ongoing investigation' and for 'destruction of evidence'," Margret explained. "As such, the school's legal team reached out to us to settle the matter." She paused, looking at Danny and Taylor.

"The school, and I suspect whoever is backing one of the girls, are offering us everything we wanted and more," Margret explained, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. "They're willing to provide a large settlement and the police are already conducting an investigation into the school's actions. I also managed to convince them to approve a transfer for Taylor into Arcadia, if that's something you both still want." She looked at Danny and Taylor, gauging their reactions.

"Given the police's aggressive pursuit, it's likely that whoever is behind the girls wants to settle this quickly and quietly," Margret continued. "You may be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) as part of the settlement." She paused, letting the information sink in. "It's a common practice in cases like this to ensure confidentiality and my recommendation is to take it quickly. As the more time passes, the less likely they are to offer such generous terms."

"What about the three girls?" Danny asked, already knowing what he was about to hear.

"Given the current circumstances," Margret started, "it would be advisable to allow the police to handle this as it is now a criminal matter. Additionally, since the school is offering such a large settlement, it will not look good before the court to try and file a separate case against them. My honest opinion? Take the deal and move on, especially since Taylor has recovered physically. Whoever is behind this? Not worth fighting with." She looked at Danny, gauging his reaction to her advice.

Danny glanced at Taylor who nodded. With Taylor's nod of agreement, Danny turned back to Margaret. "Alright, we'll follow your advice," he said, a sense of relief evident in his voice. "Let's go ahead with the settlement and focus on moving forward."

Spoiler: Just as Planned

PRT: 34

E88: 55

ABB: 62

Coil: 89

ACHIEVEMENT:
Not as Planned: You did terrible terrible damage to the Heroes…..without even trying. The Ebon Dragon would be proud.

GAIN:
Resource 2 (x5) - Will be paid out by the next weekend. (This is a one time payment after lawyer fees and taxes)
A transfer to Arcadia (Normally this would be a vote, but due to GG and Panacea going to Arcadia, Taylor will choose to go and Danny would want to remove Taylor from Winslow so it would not make IC sense to not take it.)
School is under investigation and Blackwell has been arrested.
Emma and Madison are under police custody. Sophia???

CHOICE:
[] Go visit Alan. The case is over and Emma is in Police Custody but you can go speak to him and get closure.
[] Do not visit Alan. Let it go.

You have 4 Willpower not used in Power Testing. You can ask up to 4 Questions based on the Protectorate heroes.

[] Ask Questions (Up to a max of 4)
-[] (WHO/WHAT) (Question)

PLEASE NOTE: Questions must be Directly related to the person/item. I.e What does THIS person know about X. It CANNOT be indirect. So no "What does this person's GRANDMOTHER know about X"

[] Do not ask questions.

 

[Yzarc]

13th January 2011
Danny and Taylor carefully scanned the area near the designated pick-up spot that Number Man had indicated. They were looking for a secluded location, away from prying eyes, where Danny could claim a piece of land and make it a one way link to his inner world.

Around him, bugs and insects flew, controlled by his daughter, who had insisted on accompanying him.

After a few minutes of searching, they found a suitable spot, an abandoned warehouse with a large, open area that provided enough space for the ritual circle.

Spoiler: Finding a place

Ritual Space roll: 94

"This looks like it could work," Danny said, gesturing towards the warehouse. "It's secluded enough, and there's plenty of room for the ritual circle."

Taylor nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and it's close enough to the pick-up spot that we won't have to travel far with whatever you summon."

As Danny stood in the abandoned warehouse, the Voice spoke to him.

"If you claim this land as your own," it said, "you will be able to shape it as if it were a part of your inner world. This place will be a reflection of your thoughts and desires, a sanctuary where you can draw upon the power of your Worldsoul."

Danny looked around, taking in the dilapidated surroundings. He could see the potential, the possibilities that lay before him.

Danny gazed at the land before him, a mix of determination and caution in his eyes. "What are the costs of claiming this land?" he asked, his voice steady.

The Voice responded, its tone grave yet reassuring. "To claim this land is to intertwine your fate with its own. There are no immediate material costs, but the commitment is profound. It would act as a road, a link to your Worldsoul."

Danny considered the implications. This land could become an extension of himself, a place where he could shape reality as if it were his inner world, bringing forth features of his Worldsoul into reality. But it came with a price, a deep connection that would bind this place to him. Despite the weight of the decision, Danny felt that this link could be a powerful tool in his journey to make Brockton Bay safer.

"What are the other options?" Danny asks, wanting to make an informed Decision.

The Voice considered Danny's request for a moment before speaking. "There are other paths," it finally replies. "You could choose to only partially claim the land, reducing the depth of your connection and losing the ability to shape it. There would be limits to what you can achieve but could still serve your purposes as all you need to do is transfer your wealth to his location at a regular interval."

"Would this be traceable?" Danny asks.

The Voice nods, its tone thoughtful. "Yes, claiming the land partially would lessen the direct link to your Worldsoul. It would still act as a connection, but not as strong or direct as a full claim. However, even the most powerful of Sorcerers would have issues doing so."

Danny pondered his options, weighing the risks and benefits. "What are the costs?" he asked, his voice steady.

The Voice responded, "For a full claim, it would require a Celestial Circle Working, a profound commitment that involves a magically charged reagent. For a partial claim, a Terrestrial Circle Working would suffice, with less commitment."

Deciding to get his daughter's opinion on this, Danny explains the situation to Taylor, outlining the costs and consequences of claiming the land.

After a moment of thought, Taylor responds, "Save the full claim for a good headquarters? We're just setting up a money drop right?"

Danny considered it, his brow furrowed in thought. "I'm just not sure about this," he murmured, more to himself than to Taylor.

"About claiming the land?" Taylor asked.

"Yeah," Danny replied. "I mean, I get that it could be useful, but I'm worried about making any connections to that place. What if it backfires?"

"You said it'll not be that bad right dad?" Taylor asked.

"Daniel, your Worldsoul is already connected to the world through places of loneliness. The partial claim would not be worse than that. This would add no more risk than what is already present. All it does is swap items in one location to this place but not in reverse."

Danny nodded slowly, considering The Voice's words. "I suppose you're right. Okay, let's do it. Let's go with the partial claim." He turned to Taylor, a determined look in his eyes. "Are you with me on this?"

Taylor smiled, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "Of course I am. Let's make this our first step towards taking back the city."

Danny chuckled and placed a hand on Taylor's head patting her, much to her embarrassment. "Slow down, Taylor," he said with a smile. "We'll get there, one step at a time. Let's focus on making this money drop successful first."

Taylor nodded, her enthusiasm tempered by Danny's calm demeanor.

"Before we can even think about doing this, we will need three things. They're important for this to work." Danny told Taylor who nodded, her expression serious as she listened.

"What will we need dad?" She asks.

"We'll need three specific types," Danny explained. "First, we'll need something related to space, like a Non-Euclidean puzzle or a map of the night sky. Second, something related to transportation, like a token from a bus or train station. And third, something related to money, perhaps a coin or a bill with special significance."

Taylor listened intently, processing the information. "So, we're looking for items that hold symbolic meaning in those categories?"

"Exactly," Danny affirmed. "Once we have those, we can start thinking about finishing this."

"That seems…..easy?" Taylor asked uncertainty.

"It's not just any item that will do," Danny explained as he smiled. "These things must have some significance or historical weight. They need to resonate with the concepts on a deeper level."

Taylor furrowed her brow, trying to understand. "So, we can't just grab any old coin or map?"

"Nope," Danny replied. "It has to be something that symbolizes those concepts in a meaningful way. Something that carries weight, both literally and metaphorically."

Taylor nodded, starting to grasp the concept. "So, we're looking for items that have a story behind them, something that represents more than just the physical object."

"Yeah," Danny repeated. "The more meaningful the item, the stronger the resonance, and the more effective they will be. For the transportation aspect, we can't just grab any old car parts. It needs to be something special, from a car that was meaningful to a lot of people. A car that worked for a long time and was cherished by its owners. The more meaning and history the item has, the better it will resonate with the ritual. It's not just about the physical object but the emotions and memories attached to it."

As they stood amidst the warehouse in silence, Taylor turned to Danny with a furrowed brow. "What if we don't find anything?"

Danny nodded, understanding her concern. "There is another way. If we can't find items with the right significance, we can make them ourselves. As long as the items are created with intent and meaning behind them, they will count."

As Taylor processed Danny's explanation, her eyes widened with realization. "So, if we make something that symbolizes space, transportation, and money, it would count?"

Danny nodded. "Yes, that would work."

Excitement bubbled up inside Taylor. "We could make stuff that represents each of those aspects! It could be something personal and meaningful to us, like a necklace for space, a model car for transportation, and a coin for money."

Danny smiled at her enthusiasm. "Exactly. We just need to imbue them with our intent and they'll work."

Taylor's mind raced with ideas, envisioning the items they could create together. She was eager to get started, knowing that each piece would not only be a key to becoming heroes but also a symbol of their bond and determination.

CHOOSE:
You need three Reagents to work the ritual. You can gather them or craft them.
[] Reagent (Space/Transportation/Money) (Craft/Gather)(If gather - Why it is significant/if Craft - Stunt the crafting process)

 

[Yzarc]

13th January 2011
After returning home, Danny and Taylor sat at the kitchen table, surrounded by sheets of paper covered in their brainstorming ideas for reagents. Taylor tapped her pen against her chin, deep in thought.

"We need something that represents space," Danny mused, looking at the list. "Maybe a map of the city or a model of the Earth?"

Taylor nodded. "For transportation, how about something from our first vacation? Like a bus ticket or a picture of the train station we went to?"

Danny smiled, liking the idea. "And for money, maybe a coin from the year Annet and I met or a receipt from our first dinner together?"

Taylor's eyes lit up. "I like that! It's personal and meaningful."

Her face then went slack and Taylor hesitantly voiced her feelings. "I... I don't want to destroy these reminders of happier times," she said. "I don't wanna lose more stuff that reminds me of Mom, those three already stole Mom's flute……" she trailed off even as Danny listened, understanding.

He reached out, giving her a reassuring hug. "I understand, Taylor," he said softly. "We won't use anything of Annett's. I promise." Taylor nodded, a weight lifted off her shoulders.

As Danny and Taylor sat down, Danny suggested, "What if we use something that symbolizes your journey, your resilience, and your recovery?"

Taylor's eyes widened as she realized what he was suggesting. "You mean my wheelchair? The one I used when I first came home from the hospital? The one that took me to the Boardwalk and led me to meet Panacea?"

Danny nodded, understanding the significance of the wheelchair in Taylor's life. "Yes, exactly. It's a symbol of your strength and the turning point that brought you back into my life and helped you start on a new journey."

Taylor smiled softly, touched by the idea. "I think that's perfect. Now for money?" Taylor asks. "Maybe a coin from the settlement?"

"A coin from the settlement could work." Danny said as he considered its significance. "It represents the resolution of a conflict and the value of justice. But one problem though."

"What's that Dad?" Taylor asked.

"We haven't received any settlement amount yet." Danny said with a smile.

Taylor's eyes widened. "Oh, right. We should wait until we actually have the settlement before we use it."

Danny nodded. "Exactly. Let's keep that in mind for when the time comes."

They continued to brainstorm other ideas for the reagent of money, considering items with personal significance and historical weight.

"But wait Dad, we got this Coin." Taylor said, taking it out.

Danny's eyes widened in surprise as Taylor produced the coin. "Where did you get that?"

Taylor grinned. "I found it in the attic a while back. It belonged to Grandma. She said it was a lucky coin she kept from her travels."

Danny took the coin, examining it closely. "This could work. It has sentimental value and represents luck and fortune. Plus, it's been in the family for years. It's perfect."

Taylor smiled. "Great! That's two down. What's next?"

Danny thought for a moment. "For space, we could use..."

Danny trailed off before getting up and making his way to the attic. As Danny climbed the attic stairs, memories flooded back. This attic had been a repository for their past, a place where old memories lay hidden, waiting to be rediscovered. Taylor followed closely behind, her curiosity piqued by her father's sudden inspiration.

"What are we looking for, Dad?" she asked, scanning the cluttered space.

"I'm not entirely sure," Danny replied, his eyes scanning the shelves and boxes. "But I think there might be something up here that could work."

Together, they began to sift through the boxes, careful not to disturb the delicate balance of memories and dust that filled the attic. After a few minutes of searching, Danny's hand brushed against something solid and rectangular.

"I think I've found it," he said as he pulled something out.

As Danny unfolded the old roadmap, memories flooded back. This map had been a constant companion during his time as a teen in Brockton Bay, a guide to navigate the city's streets and alleys. Taylor leaned in, her eyes tracing the faded lines and familiar landmarks.

"This could work," Danny said, pointing to a particular spot on the map. "It's a symbol of our journeys, the paths we've taken, and the roads we've traveled."

Taylor nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "It's perfect, Dad," she said. "It's a reminder of the places we've been and the adventures we've had."

With their final reagent in hand, Danny and Taylor descended from the attic, ready to complete their ritual.

---

As Danny and Taylor approached the abandoned warehouse, their footsteps muffled by the overgrown weeds and cracked pavement, Taylor took the lead, her senses sharp. She moved with the caution of a seasoned scout, her insects scanning the surroundings for any sign of movement or danger.

The warehouse loomed before them, its windows shattered, and its walls covered in graffiti. To anyone passing by, it was just another forgotten building in the city's outskirts, but to Danny and Taylor, it was the key to their next step.

Taylor signaled for Danny to stay back as her insects crawled around the area, their movements silent and deliberate. She checked each corner, each shadow, ensuring that they were alone. Satisfied, she motioned for Danny to join her.

Together, they entered the warehouse, the air thick with dust and the smell of decay. Danny took out the item they had gathered, the old roadmap, Taylor's wheelchair, and the coin and placed them in the center of the room.

Danny stood in the center of the abandoned warehouse, his eyes closed in concentration. With a deep breath, he began to channel his telekinetic powers, focusing on the ground beneath him. Slowly, the concrete began to shift and move, molding itself into a perfect circle around him.

Taylor watched in awe as Danny's powers drilled and carved the ground, forming intricate runes and symbols with incredible precision. The ground seemed to obey his every command, bending and shaping itself to his will.

As Danny continued to work, the air around them began to shimmer with a faint, otherworldly light. The runes glowed with a soft, ethereal glow, casting strange shadows on the walls of the warehouse.

Finally, with a final flourish, Danny completed the ritual circle, stepping back to admire his handiwork. The ground was now a work of art, a perfect canvas for their sorcerous workings.

Taylor approached him, her eyes wide with amazement. "That was incredible, Dad," she said, her voice filled with awe. "I had no idea you could do that."

Danny smiled, a sense of pride swelling within him. "There's a lot you don't know about me, Taylor," he said, his voice filled with determination. "But keep a lookout, I'll finish this quickly."

Lost 3 Willpower-> Now at 4/7.

As Danny placed the three items in a triangle position within the ritual circle, he felt a surge of energy coursing through him. The air around them seemed to hum with power, and the runes on the ground glowed brighter.

With a deep breath, Danny began to speak in a language that was old and long-forgotten, yet somehow familiar. The words flowed from his lips effortlessly, carrying with them a sense of ancient wisdom and power.

As he spoke, the items in the circle began to glow with a soft, ethereal light. The wheelchair shimmered with a faint, golden aura, the roadmap glowed with a soft, blue light, and the settlement coin radiated a warm, comforting glow.

Taylor watched in awe as the items began to float off the ground, hovering in the air above the circle. They spun slowly, as if caught in a gentle breeze, and a feeling of peace washed over her.

Danny's voice grew louder, filling the warehouse with its ancient power. He spoke of space, of transportation, of money, and of the bonds that tied them together. He spoke of memories, of love, of loss, and of new beginnings.

As the ritual progressed, the items in the circle began to lose their physical form, their essences merging with the intricate patterns of the ritual circle.

The circle itself glowed with a soft, pulsating light, the energy of the reagents infusing it with power. The air felt charged, and a sense of tranquility settled over the area.

And then, with a final, resounding chant, Danny brought his hands together, and the circle vanished. A brilliant light exploded from the center of where the circle once was, blinding them both for a moment.

When the light faded, Danny and Taylor found themselves staring at a pile of raw material, gold, silver, diamonds, all in its raw, unprocessed form.

Danny and Taylor stared in awe at the pile of raw riches before them. The once-empty warehouse was now filled with the glint of precious metals and gemstones, casting a surreal glow around them.

"I... I can't believe it," Taylor whispered, her eyes wide with wonder.

"It worked," Danny said, barely able to contain his excitement.

Then, in the dimly lit warehouse, the air crackled with residual energy from the completed ritual. Danny and Taylor stood straight as several towering figures materialized before them. These were the Demon Prison Guards, their forms imposing yet strangely comforting.

"We pledge our loyalty to you, Master," one of them intoned, their voice deep and resonant.

Danny nodded. He knew they couldn't stay long, only here to do one and only one duty. "Thank you. We have a task for you. We need you to transport wealth, every week to the pickup point and return. Can you assist us with that?"

The guards nodded in unison, their eyes glowing faintly with a dim light. "It shall be done, Master," another guard replied.

With that, the guards set to work, efficiently gathering the raw materials into bundles. Danny and Taylor watched in amazement as the guards effortlessly lifted the heavy loads and literally vanished, turning immaterial as they marched towards the pickup point.

As they faded into the shadows, Danny turned to Taylor, a sense of accomplishment and relief washing over him. They had succeeded, and now, they could focus on the next steps of their journey.

"We did it," Danny said, his voice filled with awe.

Taylor nodded, her eyes shining with tears. "We did," she said. "We really did."

CHOICE:
Ok, now you are looking for hideouts. You will have your headquarters when you start your hero team but also need a backup for more...private matters. So here, your choice is not the main headquarters but the back up lair.

Now some of these seem remote? Do not worry, you can make rituals to create "Fairy" circles that allow people to "fast" travel. So go with rule of cool and use Sorcery to make it convenient if that is what you want.

[] Caves or Caverns
- Coastal areas often have natural caves or caverns that can serve as hidden locations. These can be difficult to access and provide natural camouflage.

[] Abandoned Buildings
- Old warehouses, factories, or other structures near the coast could offer hidden spaces for a hideout. These buildings may be less frequented and provide a degree of privacy.

[] Cliffside Hideouts
- Cliff faces overlooking the sea can provide secluded spots, especially if they have natural overhangs or ledges that can conceal a hideout.

[] Boathouses or Marinas
- Boathouses or marinas can offer easy access to the water for escape routes and provide a cover for a hideout among the various vessels.

[] Sea Caves
- Along with natural caves, sea caves carved into coastal cliffs by the action of the waves can provide hidden locations accessible only by sea.

[] Underwater Structures
- While more complex to construct, underwater structures or underwater entrances to hideouts can provide a high level of secrecy and security.

[] Coastal Forests
- Forested areas near the coast can offer cover and seclusion, especially if they are not heavily trafficked by people.

 

[Yzarc]

15th January 2011
Danny, Taylor and Kurt set out on a tour of Brockton Bay, guided by Faultline's recommendations. They arrived at the old warehouse district near the docks and noted that the area was indeed secluded, with the abandoned warehouses casting long shadows in the late afternoon sun. The sound of seagulls echoed in the distance, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

As they explored further, they found a warehouse that seemed particularly suitable. It was larger than the others, with sturdy walls and a spacious interior. Inside, they discovered that the warehouse was mostly empty, save for a few old crates and pieces of machinery.

"What do you think?," Danny said, eyeing the interior of the warehouse thoughtfully. "It's out of the way and has good access to the Bay area."

"This place gives me the creeps though," Taylor admitted, sticking close to Danny.

"Maybe. But nothing a little work can't fix. This works as a main base of operations," Kurt said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "We can set up living quarters, a workshop, and a training area."

"If you fully claim this area and the surrounding lands," the voice said to Danny, "you could bring out the factories in your Worldsoul and shape this land as you see fit. The existing infrastructure could be incredibly useful for furthering your goals."

Danny's eyes widened at the suggestion. It would bring significant scrutiny, but the potential benefits were immense.

Taylor looked at Danny, sensing his hesitation. "What do you think?" she asked, curious.

Danny took a moment to ponder the idea. He thought about the resources they could access, the advantage it would give them in their fight against the forces of evil. After a moment, he made up his mind.

"I think it's worth a thought," Danny said, determination shining in his eyes. "Let's see the rest of it first."

As they explored the Warehouse, Danny noted the sturdy construction and their proximity to the water. "This could work," he mused, envisioning a hidden entrance leading to an underground facility.

"We could use boats to come and go without attracting attention," Taylor suggested.

"Not as easy. Unless we are narc subs, people will catch on fast. The docking area is in danger though. We'll need to build them up or any two bit Cape can break it all, let alone Leviathan," Kurt advised.

Danny, Taylor, and Kurt continued walking around, eager to assess its potential as a base of operations. They split up to cover more ground, each focusing on a different aspect of the building.

Danny checked for multiple exits, finding that there were several side doors and windows that could serve as emergency exits or alternate entrances. He noted their locations and condition, making mental notes for future reference.

Taylor, with her insects, looked for signs of surveillance. She found old cameras in some corners, but they were all broken and non-functional. She also checked for any hidden devices but found none, indicating that the building was not currently under surveillance.

Kurt, with his experience in security, examined the building for defense potential. He found that the main door was reinforced with heavy metal and could be easily secured. He also noted potential blind spots and areas that could be fortified if needed.

Together, they explored the interior of the warehouse, looking for access to resources. They found that the building was spacious, with plenty of room for storage and workspaces. They also discovered a nearby storage area for crates of supplies that could be useful as a storage space.

Finally, they searched for concealed storage. They found a hidden room behind a false wall, which could serve as a secure storage area for valuable items or sensitive information.

Overall, the warehouse by the docks seemed to have great potential as a base of operations. With its multiple exits, lack of surveillance, and potential for defense and resource access, it could be the perfect place for their operations.

LOCATION 1: Warehouse next to the Docks.
-Pro: Easy access to existing infrastructure, both land and sea. Ease of expansion, if you want to industrialize.
-Con: Docking areas in particular will be vulnerable to attack without sufficient protection.
-Complication: Getting this legally will be an uphill challenge if you reveal your Hero team first as it will bring all kinds of opposition.
-Cost: Will need to pay a Resource 2(x1) per month to rent. The equivalent of Resource 3 to outright buy it. (Depending on Negotiations)

After thoroughly inspecting the first location, they moved on to the next spot on Faultline's list: an old subway station that had been decommissioned years ago. The station was dark and eerie, with rusted tracks and abandoned platforms stretching into the darkness. The only light coming from their flashlights casting long shadows that danced across the walls.

As they explored the old subway station, they found it to be a vast underground complex with multiple levels and tunnels.

The first thing they noticed was the multiple exits, with staircases leading up to the surface at various points around the station. This would allow for easy access and escape if needed.

Next, they looked for surveillance points and found old cameras mounted on the walls, most of them non-functional but still serving as a reminder of the station's past use.

For defense mechanisms, they discovered that some of the tunnels had been blocked off with rubble, possibly as a security measure to prevent unauthorized access.

Space for resource storage was limited, but they did find old maintenance rooms that still contained some tools and supplies that could be useful.

Finally, they found a concealed storage area hidden behind a facade, which could be used to store equipment and supplies without drawing attention. As they continued to explore the old subway station, they discussed the potential risks of using such a location as a base of operations.

"A powerful enough Cape could bring this whole place crashing down on our heads," Kurt remarked, shining his flashlight on the ceiling as if to emphasize his point.

Danny nodded in agreement. "We'll need to put in a lot of work on the tunnels and platforms, maybe an early warning system? To alert us to any problems. We'd be caught bad if we didn't see it coming."

"Maybe set up some decoys and traps to mislead and deter attackers? It's easy to get lost here." Taylor said.

Danny and Kurt, paused at that, carefully examined the surroundings..

"We could create false pathways, dead ends, and hidden compartments," Danny suggested, pointing to various locations that could be used to mislead attackers. "Taylor's right. It's easy to get lost here, so if we can use that to our advantage, we should."

Kurt nodded in agreement, already thinking of ways to set up tripwires and hidden pitfalls. "We should also think about setting up some surveillance cameras. It would help us keep an eye on the entire station without having to physically be everywhere at once."

LOCATION 2: Abandoned subway station.
-Pro: Partial access to existing land infrastructure, and ease of defendability. With Workings, you can easily travel to all locations in Brockton Bay.
-Con: It is all underground, so a powerful enough Cape can bury all of you without significant effort put into defending the station. It also has limited storage space.
-Complication: Acquiring this legally will be an uphill challenge without revealing the hero team first.
-Cost: Will need to pay Resource 2(x30) dots to outright buy it. (Depending on Negotiations). Renting is not an option.

As they approached the large building in the city center, Danny, Taylor, and Kurt couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue. The building stood out among its surroundings, its imposing facade hinting at a history that was both intriguing and mysterious.

"This could be a good spot," Taylor remarked, eyeing the building with interest. "It's centrally located, which could be both an advantage and a disadvantage."

Danny nodded, considering the implications of setting up their base in such a prominent location. "We'd need to be careful with security here," he said. "But being in the city center would give us easy access to resources and information."

Kurt scanned the area, noting potential entry points and possible hiding spots. "We'd also need to make sure we have multiple exits and ways to escape if we're ever cornered," he added.

They entered a nearby caffe while Taylor discreetly used her powers to inspect the building. Her bugs spread out, scouring the building for any signs of what they were looking for.

They found multiple exits, some obvious and others hidden, providing plenty of options for escape if needed.

Surveillance was minimal, with a few cameras in the main areas but nothing too sophisticated. Defense mechanisms were lacking, indicating that the building was not heavily fortified.

Access to resources seemed limited, as the building appeared to have been abandoned for some time. However, there were signs of concealed storage, with several rooms and compartments that could be used to hide supplies or equipment.

Overall, the building seemed like a viable option, but they would need to take precautions to ensure their safety and security if they chose to make it their base of operations.

After Taylor relayed her findings to Danny and Kurt, they decided to add the building to their list of potential locations.

LOCATION 3: Empty Building at the center of Brockton Bay .
-Pro: Good Central location, ease of response, very good existing infrastructure and ease of access.
-Con: It is an unused office building and not meant to defend against Villains.
-Complication: There is a fierce legal war currently going on to acquire the building due to its ideal spot. Acquiring it will not be cheap at all and you will have to cut a few deals and share it with others, depending on how it goes.
-Cost: ???

Danny, Taylor, and Kurt arrived at the Marina, a quaint structure nestled on the edge of the bay. The place was once bustling with activity, with people coming and going, loading and unloading boats. Now, it was empty, the Ferry in the dock and mothballed. It seemed like an unlikely spot for a superhero base, but Faultline had insisted they check it out.

As they walked around, Taylor discreetly sent her bugs to gather information. They found multiple exits, including a few emergency exits that could be used for a quick escape. Surveillance was minimal, mostly limited to a few security cameras that didn't seem to cover the entire area.

Defense mechanisms were non-existent, which was a concern. If they were going to use this place as a base, they would need to beef up security. Access to resources seemed decent, with several boats that could be used for transportation or reconnaissance. Concealed storage was also available, with several storage sheds and boathouses that could be repurposed to hide equipment or supplies.

They then walked towards a collection of weather-worn boathouses lining the docks. The structures varied in size and condition, some appearing sturdy while others seemed on the brink of collapse. As they walked along the docks, they examined each boathouse, looking for signs of wear and tear, as well as any security measures that might be in place.

Taylor sent her bugs to discreetly gather information, focusing on the condition of the boathouses and whether they were currently in use. The bugs reported back that most of the boathouses were empty, their doors locked and windows boarded up. A few showed signs of recent use, with lights on inside and boats moored nearby.

They found that some of the boathouses were in good condition, with sturdy doors and locks that seemed difficult to break. Others were in disrepair, with rotting wood and rusty locks that could easily be bypassed. It seemed that while some of the boathouses could provide decent shelter, others would require significant repairs to be usable.

As they continued their inspection, they discussed the feasibility of stealing one of the boathouses. While it was technically possible, they agreed that it would be risky and could draw unwanted attention.

After inspecting several boathouses, they found one that seemed promising. It was in decent condition, with a sturdy door and lock, and appeared to be unoccupied. They made a note of its location and planned to return later to investigate further.

Solo Base: Marina and Boathouse.
-Pro: Ease of access, covers the Dock area, relatively private places nearby with access to the Boat Graveyard.
-Con: It is not defensible without a lot of work.
-Complication: As a temp base, there are none.
-Cost: ???

Go to turn end for choices.

 

[Yzarc]

16th January 2011

---

Spoiler: Training Rolls

Crazy Enough to Work - 6 +1 (Gain)

Unspoken Plan Guarantee - 3 +1 + 4 (3 dice) + 2 sux (4 dice) (Gain)

Hollow Mind Possession - 7 + 1 + 2 sux (4 dice) (Gain)

Socialize - 6 + 1 + 1 (2 Dice) (Gain)

Presence - 3 + 1 + 1 (2 dice) (PENDING)

Danny and Taylor ventured into the outskirts of Brockton Bay, looking for a secluded area to test and train her bug control power without attracting unwanted attention. After some searching, they eventually ended up in the deserted warehouse district, its abandoned buildings and overgrown lots offering the perfect environment for their experiments.

Danny had spent weeks observing Taylor's control over her bugs, allowing her to use her powers freely to test herself and but avoided pushing her limits. But now, it was different. Now, they would be actively training, honing her abilities to a razor-sharp edge.

"Are you ready for this, Taylor?" Danny asked, his voice firm but gentle. He wanted to protect her, but he also knew she was more than capable.

Taylor nodded. "I'm ready, Dad. I want to be the best hero I can be, and I know that means pushing myself harder than ever before."

Without another word, Taylor reached out and called forth a swarm of bugs, letting them spread out and explore their surroundings. She focused on maintaining a mental connection with each insect, feeling their presence and seeing through their eyes. With Danny's guidance, she practiced controlling the bugs' movements, directing them to specific locations and tasks.

As Taylor grew more confident, Danny suggested they start to test the limits of her power. He placed objects at various distances, challenging Taylor to see if she could guide her bugs to retrieve them. To their amazement, Taylor found that she could control the insects with remarkable precision, guiding them through obstacles and intricate paths to reach their targets.

Encouraged by her success, Taylor decided to push herself further. She concentrated, trying to expand the range of her control. Slowly, she felt her influence spreading, reaching out to bugs farther and farther away. It was a thrilling sensation, knowing that she could command an entire swarm from a considerable distance.

As they continued their experiments, Taylor discovered new abilities within her power. She learned to manipulate the sounds produced by the insects, creating a form of communication between herself and her swarm.

They then decided to explore the full extent of her powers. Danny watched in amazement as Taylor effortlessly controlled thousands of insects, each following her mental commands with precision. She moved them in intricate patterns, testing the limits of her multitasking abilities.

As the day progressed, Taylor's control only seemed to strengthen. She could sense every bug's location, see through their eyes simultaneously, and even communicate simple commands to them that they followed even if she strayed out of range.

Upon Danny's suggestion, she attempted to control larger insects and more complex movements, all while maintaining her connection to the swarm.In addition, her multitasking abilities seemed unlimited, allowing her to control the swarm with ease. She even experimented with coordinating different tasks, such as scouting, reconnaissance, and surveillance, all at once.

As the sun started dipping into the horizon, they decided to call it a day and sat down at a nearby bench. Taylor sat across from Danny, her eyes shining with excitement as she animatedly described her powers. "It's incredible, Dad," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "I can see through the eyes of every bug in my swarm, feel what they feel, and control them with just a thought. It's like having an army of tiny spies at my command."

Danny listened attentively, a smile playing on his lips. He was amazed by Taylor's abilities and proud of how far she had come. "That's amazing, Taylor," he replied, admiration evident in his voice. "I always knew you were special, but this... this is something else."

Taylor beamed at the praise, her excitement bubbling over. "And that's not even the best part," she continued. "I can control them all at once, multitasking like you wouldn't believe. It's like my brain has expanded to accommodate the swarm. I can do things with them that I never thought possible."

"I've been practicing giving more complex orders to my bugs, and they follow them even when I move out of range." Taylor said with great joy and satisfaction.

"That's impressive, Taylor," Dannt said. "What kind of complex orders are we talking about?"

"Well," Taylor replied, "I've been able to make them do complicated stuff like making patterns in the air, moving objects, and even coordinating attacks. It's like they understand my commands on a whole new level. Heck, I think I am a tinker and a thinker cause I had a bunch of spiders build me a suit and they kept doing it even when I moved out of range. I can build us all spider silk suits, isn't that awesome?"

Danny chuckled. "I'm so proud of you, Taylor," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "You've grown into such a strong and capable young woman. I know you'll do great things with your powers, and I'll be here every step of the way to support you."

Taylor smiled, giving her father a light hug. She was grateful to have her father's unwavering support, and she knew that together, they could face anything that came their way. Both lapsed into silence, the day long testing having exhausted both of them.

"You're doing amazing, Taylor," Danny said, breaking the silence. "But I can't help but wonder what would happen if you had a bit of telekinetic ability to go along with your bug control."

Taylor's eyes widened with excitement. "Do you think that's possible, Dad?" she asked, her voice eager.

Danny nodded thoughtfully. "Once I can give it to you. With your multitasking abilities, you could be a true terror with telekinesis. Imagine controlling dozens of objects at once, all while directing your bugs in battle. You'd be unstoppable."

Taylor grinned at the thought, her mind racing with possibilities. "I'd love to try it," she said, determination shining in her eyes. "Once you can give me telekinesis, I want to explore it. I want to be the best hero I can be, and I'll do whatever it takes to get there." She paused before speaking up excitedly.

"Oh, and I can use it to enhance my mobility, I could create platforms of telekinetic energy to stand on, allowing me to move through the air with ease." Taylor breathed out in one go.

"That's a great idea, Taylor," Danny said, smiling at his daughter. "You could also use it to create barriers or shields to protect yourself or others. And don't forget about the offensive possibilities. You could use telekinesis to manipulate objects or even create weapons to use against your enemies."

Taylor nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. "I could use it to enhance my bugs' abilities, too," she said. "I could make them faster or stronger, or even use telekinesis to control them directly if I'm out of range."

Danny chuckled at her enthusiasm. "You're really thinking this through."

Taylor beamed at the praise, her confidence soaring. She knew that with her father's support, there was nothing she couldn't accomplish. No one, not even Emma would ever tear her down again.

As soon as the thought struck her, Taylor paused, her hands fidgeting in her lap as she gathered the courage to speak. "Dad, I... I need to tell you something," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. "I was always afraid that my bug powers were weak. That I was weak. But now... now I know that I'm not as weak as I thought I was."

Danny listened intently, his expression soft and understanding. "Taylor, your powers are incredible," he said, genuinely believing his words. "You have the ability to control thousands of countless insects at once, to see through their eyes and hear through their ears. That's not weakness, Taylor. That's strength."

Tears welled up in Taylor's eyes as she looked at her father, overwhelmed by his words of support. "Thank you, Dad," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "I couldn't have come this far without you."

Danny pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her close as she let her tears fall. "I'll always be here for you, Taylor," he said softly. "No matter what, you'll never have to face anything alone."

As they sat together, father and daughter, Taylor felt a newfound sense of confidence and strength. She knew that with her father by her side, there was nothing she couldn't overcome.

Taylor's Power:
-Bug Control. Complete control over anything considered "bugs" and "insects"
-Range is Medium Range but may be enhanced to Long range through unknown means.
-"Seeing" through her "bugs"
-Talking through her "bugs"
-Unlimited Multi-Tasking - She still has only 7 actions per turn but suffers no dice/Difficulty penalties
-Can give commands of various complexity that the "bugs" follow even if Taylor goes out of range.

CHOOSE NEXT ACTION:
[] Build up the Lair
[] Build the Lotus pond