gardenphilosoph
2008-11-10, 04:24 PM
Lost Horizon
The Expedition Map
http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-ExpeditionMap.jpg
The Expedition
January 12th, 1936 - A private source petitioned an exploratory expedition into the heart of Africa, for land survey and the analysis of potential colonial land. National Geographic offered to bring it together if enough money was donated, turning it into a research expedition as well.
January 18th, 1936 - A vast amount of money was donated, enough to cover most of the costs for the world-spanning expedition.
January 19th, 1936 - Plans were drafted, hotels were booked, and phone calls were made. The expedition was to include at least fifty people from all different sources, and would in itself be a series of small groups expeditionary forces all engaging in a larger expedition into the heart of the dark continent, which still had not yet been fully explored and mapped.
January 25th, 1936 - During the week, several steamers boarded at New York city and left for London, all carrying supplies and members for the expedition. On the massive ships were Crocus Neidr and Joseph Arronson, among others.
August 2nd, 1936 - A meeting was held in London, discussing logistics, supplies, survey records, and the like. The expedition was in full swing now, with all the supplies and members ready in London.
August 4th, 1936 - Meetings were being held for the individual groups, which consisted of 10-20 members each. There were several of these, all part of the same wider expedition but independent groups in themselves. One group was put together, consisting of mainly academics with some military support, as well as a cartographer. They were to be the second group sent into the jungle.
August 7th, 1936 - The second group left for Nairobi, Kenya. At first it was by plane, but a combination of automobiles, boats, and at times camels saw them to Nairobi.
August 29th, 1936 - With everyone and everything ready in Nairobi, plans were made to begin the actual expedition. It was decided that two weather balloons would be best to conduct an aerial survey first, perhaps touching down to study the land up-close.
Travel Log
August 30th, 1936 - They were in flight, hovering above the dense greenery of the Congo, in inland Africa.
13:06 - The balloons have been up for several hours, navigating well with strong winds to guide us.
13:21 - The compasses and much of the balloon's magnetic navigation eqipment have suddenly started malfunctioning. The compass needles are swinging around at random. Good thing we can still use the sun to navigate. It's directly above us.
13:23 - The air has become much more humid, suffocating at times. The balloons don't seem to have moved much.
13:34 - A strong mist or fog or clouds have moved in. Visibility has been reduced to a dozen feet or so. The crew is panicked.
14:01 - Nothing is changing. We seem to be suspended above some warm pocket of jungle or something. The clouds make it impossible to see, and the wind isn't pushing us anymore.
14:12 - The crew hears strange calls. Shrill screams that don't sound like any bird any of us have ever heard, including the biologist.
14:21 - Flocks of some sort of massive avian are swarming around the balloon, but they are just fleeting shadows in the fog. One of the crew members claims that they have scales instead of feathers. Bollocks.
14:23 - We've lost contact with the other balloon. It drifted off in the fog.
14:26 - Something has punctured the balloon! Those flying things, they must have ripped the balloon! We're plummeting as I write. The sandbags have been dropped and the ballasts pulled back in, and there's nothi-
...
http://www.dreamstime.com/dense-jungle-thumb2848118.jpg
The balloon was in ruins. It is torn in a dozen places and far beyond repair, spread across the canopy of the strange dense jungle that you had awoke to find yourself in. Spread between gnarled branches and twisting leaves, it filters in bright sunlight. The basket, or its splintered remains, is suspended a couple feet off the forest floor, the rigging having been caught in the branches overhead.
Amidst massive ferns and sprawling greenery are the tossed bodies and supplies of one of the expedition balloons. It had plummeted into the canopy fairly fast, but the foliage must have cushioned the fall.
The jungle itself is extremely humid, and bizarre. It isn't like the other African jungle you've encountered so far. Something about seems profoundly primordial, from the size of the plants to the strange calls in the distance. The astonishingly loud buzz of winged insects hangs in the air, as clouds of gnats swarm about low-lying branches and such.
OOC: You've just awoken from a crash and find yourself in a new unknown environment. Act accordingly, things will heat up in a moment or two. :smallwink:
Don't worry about mechanics for now. Just role-play.
Also, some of your character sheets aren't up. Don't let that hold you back, go ahead and post, they'll be up soon.
...
Expedition Members
Sergeant Wallace Smith played by BLOCKHEAD
“I say old chaps! Over the top, 3 rounds, rapid fire. Ready? Tally ho! (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Blockhead-SergeantWallaceSmith.jpg)
BACKGROUND - Wallace was born into an upper-class household in the late nineteenth century. He was brought up to be polite, gentlemanly and above all else, loyal to Britain, it's people and the Queen. When the first World War broke out, Wallace immediately signed up with a stiff upper lip, believing the war would be over by Christmas. His upper-class status granted him officer training and he soon became an officer in the Great British Army. After fighting many horrific battles, Wallace was credited and rewarded for his upstanding courage in the face of overwhelming odds and his policy of never retreating. By the end of the War, he was promoted to Sergeant and retired from the army, although still keeping in close contact with them. Looking for more excitement, danger and adventure, Wallace signed up for the Expedition, hoping to add more deeds to his already prestigious history. Wallace is skilled in most areas of warfare and military matters, but is beginning to age and so his physical strength is slowly getting weaker. Although his greatest strength is his unbreakable will. Always laughing in the face of danger, he charges headlong into the fray with little regard for personal safety. The many battles, explosions and other loud noises he has gone through have left him hard of hearing. He has no wife or children and his parents have died of old age. His brother also signed up for the war, but was killed in action. Wallace grieved for him for some time, but quickly got on with his duty. He still remembers his brother, Thomas, but does not feel that sad about his death, partly because of his strong will, the long amount of time that has passed and the knowledge that his brother died in the line of duty, serving his country.
APPEARANCE - Wallace is a terribly English gentleman, speaking with a heavy British accent and often smokes a pipe when not in combat. He's always positive, after defeating Jerries in the War he believed anything could be accomplished. He sometimes likes to tell tales of his wartime experiences. He is 5’10’’, weighs 158 lbs, 48 years of age, and is British.
Maxwell Crick played by THE JJ
"Look, can you stop talking and put some pressure right there? Good, now that I've made your hand better than new why don't you go back out there and actually shoot something and we might get out of this alive." (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-TheJJ-MaxwellCrick.jpg)
BACKGROUND: From the New York Times, January 1936…Mr. Crick was very interesting man, and once I got him going he talked quite eagerly. I was struggling to keep taking notes as he spoke, much less get an actual question in edgewise. I did not need to of course, as he answered all questions with out my prompting.
"Well, first of all, I was not a doctor during the war. I'd, you know, bandaged a few cuts before the war, but during it I was just another man in the trenches. That was until the Somme, of course. My regiment was pushing across no-man's land when the shells started falling. I was lucky. I couldn't advance or retreat, not with my leg that bad, but I was still alive and fairly mobile. Everybody to my left wasn’t. I grabbed a few bandages, and did some emergency work. Stopped the bleeding, had enough foresight to keep the wounds clean, and by the time the stretchers came, I was some hero. I hung out in the field hospital, recovering, looking after my mates. And I picked up a few things, started helping in surgery. I liked it, saved a few lives, and then got rotated back into combat. After the war I went and studied some more on surgery, and then went out into the Empire to put it to use."
APPEARANCE: Maxwell looks like a well established British gentleman in many regards. He dresses well, is very neat, and has well styled black hair, with a few streaks of white at the temples. In other respects, he looks like some hard-bitten adventurer, with tanned skin, old scars on his right arm and leg (normally covered), and a stand-off-ish, superior air. In reality, he projects an air of confidence over some very serious psychological problems. Nearby guns he can handle, especially when he's expecting it. He's quick to hit the deck, but you would be too if someone was shooting at you. However distant explosions or things that sound like distant explosions (like a T-Rex doing it's best to sneak), which always used to signal impending shelling, will cause him to freak out. Symptoms include sprinting for the nearest ditch, and shouting orders and responses to orders given 20 years ago. If this happens during surgery, for example, or when he is in any other concentrated mood, he will quietly finish the job in front of him, and then go find a private corner to cry in. He also suffers from nightmares. He is 6’2’’, weighs 169 lbs, and is 35 years of age.
Cath-Quin 'Quinny' Jones played by GLYPHIC
”Hollow world, hm? That doesn't surprise me. We're all husks - our innards are the secrets that we keep. You see that dame over there? Well let me tell you about her…" (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Glyphic-Cath-QuinQuinnyJones.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Quinn grew up in a strict, upper-middle class family. Curfew at 7 p.m., inedible dinners and a controlling father. It was just the pits, ya know? The best part of it was her parents trying to 'culture' her by sending to archery practice with some snooty girls who daddies had enough money to say 'yes'. So when she convinced her father to send her to an 'acceptable' university, she really let loose. She stayed up late, drinking and dancing till the wee hours. She became the center of attention, and made the rules for herself. What she really loved, was getting to the core of people, and seeing the mask they wore to conceal their secrets and fears. Anybody without either was just so droll. Of course, scratching the surface of people always brings out their worst. It wasn't Quinn's fault when things went south. She stayed for two terms before her being 'behind the grind' and the manipulation of her father (Yes daddy, I've been getting straight A's- isn't that just kippy?) led to academic probation. Not to mention prohibition closed down her favorite digs.
So what'd she do? She threw caution to the wind and stormed off. She knew how to take care of herself, and if she didn't she could fake it. And this new rumor about a secret world was just too swell -not- to poke her nose into.
Octavius Maximus played by DRUM-N-BASS
”I don't give a damn what Puccini is doing. I'm trying to write the next Bible here for God’s sake!” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Drum-N-Bass-OctaviusMaximus.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Octavius was born eighth in a wealthy family. His dad was a prominent French military officer, and his mom was of Royalty in Normandy. When he was born, he had health issues causing him to stay inside. When inside he would study literature, music, and many other subjects. He taught himself to play the piano, violin, and many other instruments. He became noted at a young age for his piano and violin abilities. After performing for many years, he decided what he wanted to do was compose music. With his new desire, he followed it to The French Conservatory of Music. He failed miserably at The French Conservatory of Music, being kicked out halfway through his second year. Finding the professors at The French Conservatory of Music to be stuck-up pricks, he continued his composing career on his own backed by his fiancée Maria de Marseille. After the opening night of his first concerto, Octavius and Maria got married. They soon had a child named Peter Maximus. After the birth of their child Maria got extremely sick, along with Peter, both died by the unknown illness. He then heard of the Hollow Earth, trying to revive his failing composing career, he sought for the Hollow Earth so he could compose the world’s best opera.
APPEARANCE: Octavius is 5’4’’, is 40 years of age, weighs 135 lbs, and is of mixed blood, including French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish origins.
SHOTS FIRED: 1
Crocus 'Croc' Neidr played by GENTOO44 (6 Style Points)
”The only thing better than finding a new cave to map out, is making one yourself.” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Gentoo44-CrocusNeidr.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Crocus, who much prefers the nickname given is his childhood, 'Croc', was born in a family of two in San Jose, California. Although he is an extremely smart person, he has been getting into trouble ever since his childhood. He unique curiosity led to several 'explosive' situations. His older brother, Seph, had always either overshadowed him, or made sure to be the first to laugh when Croc got himself into a sticky situation. The last time the two were together, it didn't end well.
Croc was simply minding his own business in the desert far away from homes, attempting to break his old record of how deep a hole he blow into the sand using chemicals from around the house. He thought the 'Do Not Enter! Blast Zone!' Signs made it pretty clear to stay out, but his brother and her girlfriend, Emily, had unwittingly strayed into the zone. Croc set of the bomb, unknowing of the danger. The blast was immaculate. Emily was killed instantly, ripped apart before she knew what had happened. Seph hadn’t been as lucky. The accident had blown off his left leg, and burned him all across the body. Croc had no idea what to do when he discovered this. Doing the only thing that made sense, he grabbed his stuff and ran away from home, becoming a hitchhiker and earning his nights doing odd jobs. Once Seph had recovered and learned what happened, he was furious at his brother. The near death experience gave him one goal. He swore to take his revenge on Croc for ruining his life...
Croc hasn't seen his brother since that day. Recently, however, he heard of a group of adventurers diving into the belly of the Earth, and he wanted in. He had been accepted in due to his extensive knowledge of healing, and to map out the caverns inside our planet. What he didn't tell them is his proficiency with explosives. He wanted to let that come as a shocking surprise, should the need arise.
APPEARANCE: Croc is a relatively young man, having just hit 22 years old. He is a bit shorter than most people, and is quite skinny for his age. He almost always wears a sly smile, indicating something's up. He has an attractive face, with dirty blonde hair, which grows to about neck height, and dark green eyes. He caries a small pack, not containing much more than food, explosives, and the surgical equipment he's required to bring. He is 22 years of age, 5’6’’, weighs 134 lbs, and is American.
Marcus Smith played by SILVERKISS
”You studied biology your whole life ? So what, loser, I know much more than you, and I only spent a few hours reading. That animal is not dangerous.” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Silverkiss-MarcusSmith.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Marcus was born into a wealthy family, and as such got the opportunity to study in the best schools. However, he always felt he was better than his own teachers, and instead of going to school, he went to the library, where he learned alone from books. The only teacher Marcus ever respected was Horace D. Featherdale, not as much for his knowledge but for his personality and his attitude.
He joined the expedition in search of lost knowledge and new things to learn.
APPEARANCE: Marcus dons a pair of glasses over his blue eyes, and likes to keep his dark hair cut. He is not strong, but his body is not frail either, and he has good coordination and agility. He likes to dress well. He is 27 years of age, 5’8’’, weighs 160 lbs, and is American.
James 'Quinn' Harley-Quinn played by JETTWILDERBEAST
”Just wait 'till London hears of this! Then they'll never forget James Harley-Quinn!” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Jettwilderbeast-JamesHarley-Qui.jpg)
”Just wait 'till London hears of this! Then they'll never forget James Harley-Quinn!”
BACKGROUND: James Harley-Quinn, or Quinn to his friends, is a reporter for The Daily Express in London and a very good one at that, a young rising star for the papers Quinn constantly gets the scoop he needs. Though he doesn't worry too much how he gets it. Quinn will happily turn to thievery or blackmail to get the story he needs and more importantly the personal glory that comes with it.
James Harley-Quinn was born to a middle class family in Eastern England who allowed him to chase his dream of being a world class reporter, he worked on local papers in his area and it wasn't long before his enthusiastic style of writing and knack of getting the story won him a job at The Daily Express in London. Quinn packed his bags and stayed in a distant relatives house until he could find a room in a shared house with work colleagues. Quinn's first big story in London came when he uncovered a money-laundering ring in London's seedy underworld locking up several gang bosses and making enemies of several more. More stories of the same caliber followed and Quinn swiftly became one of London's best reporters, as well as the highlight of the social scene, during his time off Quinn is a large party man and frequents many clubs of ill repute as well as gentlemen's clubs and exclusive dinner parties. Quinn likes a smoke and a drink but more importantly Quinn likes to chase the dragon. Opium dens are an old haunt of Quinn's as he says he needs to get away sometimes and an addiction has been going strong for many months now. The addiction first began on a night out where Quinn was offered opium and under peer pressure he obliged, Quinn now has to go to an opium den every few days now and if he doesn't get his fix he really doesn't feel well at all.
APPEARANCE: Quinn is a young man eager for the world and this comes across straight away. Quinn is a reporter for the London paper The Daily Express and as such Quinn always has a camera thrown over his shoulder so he can be ready for the all-important scoop. He is a good-looking man with medium length hair, a good-looking face and cheeky eyes. Quinn is in good shape and as such wears clothes to suit his work. Quinn can often seen wearing dark brown trousers with sturdy boots that he can rely on, he wears a creamy white fitted shirt with his sleeves rolled up and braces over his shoulders. In London, Quinn is often seen with a good leather backpack (often only on one shoulder) carrying camera film, food and a few 'tools' to help him in his work.
Joseph Arronson played by KOPOUT
”Don't patronize me, I know exactly what I'm doing. Now where did I put my shoe?” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Kopout-JosephArronson.jpg)
BACKGROUND: The son of a carpenter, his father was always trying to interest him is his work, though Joseph was content to play in the dirt and watch bugs. That has not changed. He still enjoys watching and learning. Never one for long term plans and with a memory like a sieve he almost did not finish his doctorate degree in biology.
Working closely with his professor, Horance D. Featherdale, Joseph learned of an expedition into uncharted territory. Joseph decided to accompany his professor on to the expedition…
APPEARANCE: Of average height and weight there is nothing much to identify Joseph Arronson from the crowed except for his unkempt appearance. He does possess a rare child-like joy at discovering new things and a love of animals, but these are only known to his friends. Joseph is 5’9’’, weighs 150 lbs, and is 34 years of age.
Horance D. Featherdale played by WADLEDO
"Ah, it's more scared of you than you are of it. Give it a smack it on the nose and it'll leave you alone. Why I remember an old friend of mine, Thomas Scott, damned good man with a rifle, he would shove those damned walruses right off their icebergs. When was that? Around, oh, possibly the fourth....?" (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Wadledo-HoranceDFeatherdale.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Horance D. Featherdale was born in 1857, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to a Mrs. Gertrude Featherdale and a Mr. David Featherdale. Growing up on his grandfather’s stories of world travel and adventure, he ran away to join the circus at age 8.
After this failed miserably, he was sent to a small boarding school near Harvard, where he spent his weekends exploring the majesty that is learning.
At 14, one of his distant uncles insisted he join him on a round the world trip, where for the next 6 years he saw all the corners of the earth, eventually coming back home to get a teaching degree from Harvard, then escaping away every year or so, bringing back bones, scars, tiny aboriginal skulls stuffed with elephant dung (but only once, and that was a birthday present from a high shaman) and stories.
So, after 40+ years of adventuring, he settled down, teaching faithfully for ten years, and all the while scaring the bejesus out of the other ol'coots.
That is, until he learned that Eugeen Van Mieghem, an old friend and confidant, had died. With the specter of death over his shoulder, he decided that time was he "got back into the game", much to the relief of his fellow professors.
The Expedition Map
http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-ExpeditionMap.jpg
The Expedition
January 12th, 1936 - A private source petitioned an exploratory expedition into the heart of Africa, for land survey and the analysis of potential colonial land. National Geographic offered to bring it together if enough money was donated, turning it into a research expedition as well.
January 18th, 1936 - A vast amount of money was donated, enough to cover most of the costs for the world-spanning expedition.
January 19th, 1936 - Plans were drafted, hotels were booked, and phone calls were made. The expedition was to include at least fifty people from all different sources, and would in itself be a series of small groups expeditionary forces all engaging in a larger expedition into the heart of the dark continent, which still had not yet been fully explored and mapped.
January 25th, 1936 - During the week, several steamers boarded at New York city and left for London, all carrying supplies and members for the expedition. On the massive ships were Crocus Neidr and Joseph Arronson, among others.
August 2nd, 1936 - A meeting was held in London, discussing logistics, supplies, survey records, and the like. The expedition was in full swing now, with all the supplies and members ready in London.
August 4th, 1936 - Meetings were being held for the individual groups, which consisted of 10-20 members each. There were several of these, all part of the same wider expedition but independent groups in themselves. One group was put together, consisting of mainly academics with some military support, as well as a cartographer. They were to be the second group sent into the jungle.
August 7th, 1936 - The second group left for Nairobi, Kenya. At first it was by plane, but a combination of automobiles, boats, and at times camels saw them to Nairobi.
August 29th, 1936 - With everyone and everything ready in Nairobi, plans were made to begin the actual expedition. It was decided that two weather balloons would be best to conduct an aerial survey first, perhaps touching down to study the land up-close.
Travel Log
August 30th, 1936 - They were in flight, hovering above the dense greenery of the Congo, in inland Africa.
13:06 - The balloons have been up for several hours, navigating well with strong winds to guide us.
13:21 - The compasses and much of the balloon's magnetic navigation eqipment have suddenly started malfunctioning. The compass needles are swinging around at random. Good thing we can still use the sun to navigate. It's directly above us.
13:23 - The air has become much more humid, suffocating at times. The balloons don't seem to have moved much.
13:34 - A strong mist or fog or clouds have moved in. Visibility has been reduced to a dozen feet or so. The crew is panicked.
14:01 - Nothing is changing. We seem to be suspended above some warm pocket of jungle or something. The clouds make it impossible to see, and the wind isn't pushing us anymore.
14:12 - The crew hears strange calls. Shrill screams that don't sound like any bird any of us have ever heard, including the biologist.
14:21 - Flocks of some sort of massive avian are swarming around the balloon, but they are just fleeting shadows in the fog. One of the crew members claims that they have scales instead of feathers. Bollocks.
14:23 - We've lost contact with the other balloon. It drifted off in the fog.
14:26 - Something has punctured the balloon! Those flying things, they must have ripped the balloon! We're plummeting as I write. The sandbags have been dropped and the ballasts pulled back in, and there's nothi-
...
http://www.dreamstime.com/dense-jungle-thumb2848118.jpg
The balloon was in ruins. It is torn in a dozen places and far beyond repair, spread across the canopy of the strange dense jungle that you had awoke to find yourself in. Spread between gnarled branches and twisting leaves, it filters in bright sunlight. The basket, or its splintered remains, is suspended a couple feet off the forest floor, the rigging having been caught in the branches overhead.
Amidst massive ferns and sprawling greenery are the tossed bodies and supplies of one of the expedition balloons. It had plummeted into the canopy fairly fast, but the foliage must have cushioned the fall.
The jungle itself is extremely humid, and bizarre. It isn't like the other African jungle you've encountered so far. Something about seems profoundly primordial, from the size of the plants to the strange calls in the distance. The astonishingly loud buzz of winged insects hangs in the air, as clouds of gnats swarm about low-lying branches and such.
OOC: You've just awoken from a crash and find yourself in a new unknown environment. Act accordingly, things will heat up in a moment or two. :smallwink:
Don't worry about mechanics for now. Just role-play.
Also, some of your character sheets aren't up. Don't let that hold you back, go ahead and post, they'll be up soon.
...
Expedition Members
Sergeant Wallace Smith played by BLOCKHEAD
“I say old chaps! Over the top, 3 rounds, rapid fire. Ready? Tally ho! (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Blockhead-SergeantWallaceSmith.jpg)
BACKGROUND - Wallace was born into an upper-class household in the late nineteenth century. He was brought up to be polite, gentlemanly and above all else, loyal to Britain, it's people and the Queen. When the first World War broke out, Wallace immediately signed up with a stiff upper lip, believing the war would be over by Christmas. His upper-class status granted him officer training and he soon became an officer in the Great British Army. After fighting many horrific battles, Wallace was credited and rewarded for his upstanding courage in the face of overwhelming odds and his policy of never retreating. By the end of the War, he was promoted to Sergeant and retired from the army, although still keeping in close contact with them. Looking for more excitement, danger and adventure, Wallace signed up for the Expedition, hoping to add more deeds to his already prestigious history. Wallace is skilled in most areas of warfare and military matters, but is beginning to age and so his physical strength is slowly getting weaker. Although his greatest strength is his unbreakable will. Always laughing in the face of danger, he charges headlong into the fray with little regard for personal safety. The many battles, explosions and other loud noises he has gone through have left him hard of hearing. He has no wife or children and his parents have died of old age. His brother also signed up for the war, but was killed in action. Wallace grieved for him for some time, but quickly got on with his duty. He still remembers his brother, Thomas, but does not feel that sad about his death, partly because of his strong will, the long amount of time that has passed and the knowledge that his brother died in the line of duty, serving his country.
APPEARANCE - Wallace is a terribly English gentleman, speaking with a heavy British accent and often smokes a pipe when not in combat. He's always positive, after defeating Jerries in the War he believed anything could be accomplished. He sometimes likes to tell tales of his wartime experiences. He is 5’10’’, weighs 158 lbs, 48 years of age, and is British.
Maxwell Crick played by THE JJ
"Look, can you stop talking and put some pressure right there? Good, now that I've made your hand better than new why don't you go back out there and actually shoot something and we might get out of this alive." (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-TheJJ-MaxwellCrick.jpg)
BACKGROUND: From the New York Times, January 1936…Mr. Crick was very interesting man, and once I got him going he talked quite eagerly. I was struggling to keep taking notes as he spoke, much less get an actual question in edgewise. I did not need to of course, as he answered all questions with out my prompting.
"Well, first of all, I was not a doctor during the war. I'd, you know, bandaged a few cuts before the war, but during it I was just another man in the trenches. That was until the Somme, of course. My regiment was pushing across no-man's land when the shells started falling. I was lucky. I couldn't advance or retreat, not with my leg that bad, but I was still alive and fairly mobile. Everybody to my left wasn’t. I grabbed a few bandages, and did some emergency work. Stopped the bleeding, had enough foresight to keep the wounds clean, and by the time the stretchers came, I was some hero. I hung out in the field hospital, recovering, looking after my mates. And I picked up a few things, started helping in surgery. I liked it, saved a few lives, and then got rotated back into combat. After the war I went and studied some more on surgery, and then went out into the Empire to put it to use."
APPEARANCE: Maxwell looks like a well established British gentleman in many regards. He dresses well, is very neat, and has well styled black hair, with a few streaks of white at the temples. In other respects, he looks like some hard-bitten adventurer, with tanned skin, old scars on his right arm and leg (normally covered), and a stand-off-ish, superior air. In reality, he projects an air of confidence over some very serious psychological problems. Nearby guns he can handle, especially when he's expecting it. He's quick to hit the deck, but you would be too if someone was shooting at you. However distant explosions or things that sound like distant explosions (like a T-Rex doing it's best to sneak), which always used to signal impending shelling, will cause him to freak out. Symptoms include sprinting for the nearest ditch, and shouting orders and responses to orders given 20 years ago. If this happens during surgery, for example, or when he is in any other concentrated mood, he will quietly finish the job in front of him, and then go find a private corner to cry in. He also suffers from nightmares. He is 6’2’’, weighs 169 lbs, and is 35 years of age.
Cath-Quin 'Quinny' Jones played by GLYPHIC
”Hollow world, hm? That doesn't surprise me. We're all husks - our innards are the secrets that we keep. You see that dame over there? Well let me tell you about her…" (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Glyphic-Cath-QuinQuinnyJones.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Quinn grew up in a strict, upper-middle class family. Curfew at 7 p.m., inedible dinners and a controlling father. It was just the pits, ya know? The best part of it was her parents trying to 'culture' her by sending to archery practice with some snooty girls who daddies had enough money to say 'yes'. So when she convinced her father to send her to an 'acceptable' university, she really let loose. She stayed up late, drinking and dancing till the wee hours. She became the center of attention, and made the rules for herself. What she really loved, was getting to the core of people, and seeing the mask they wore to conceal their secrets and fears. Anybody without either was just so droll. Of course, scratching the surface of people always brings out their worst. It wasn't Quinn's fault when things went south. She stayed for two terms before her being 'behind the grind' and the manipulation of her father (Yes daddy, I've been getting straight A's- isn't that just kippy?) led to academic probation. Not to mention prohibition closed down her favorite digs.
So what'd she do? She threw caution to the wind and stormed off. She knew how to take care of herself, and if she didn't she could fake it. And this new rumor about a secret world was just too swell -not- to poke her nose into.
Octavius Maximus played by DRUM-N-BASS
”I don't give a damn what Puccini is doing. I'm trying to write the next Bible here for God’s sake!” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Drum-N-Bass-OctaviusMaximus.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Octavius was born eighth in a wealthy family. His dad was a prominent French military officer, and his mom was of Royalty in Normandy. When he was born, he had health issues causing him to stay inside. When inside he would study literature, music, and many other subjects. He taught himself to play the piano, violin, and many other instruments. He became noted at a young age for his piano and violin abilities. After performing for many years, he decided what he wanted to do was compose music. With his new desire, he followed it to The French Conservatory of Music. He failed miserably at The French Conservatory of Music, being kicked out halfway through his second year. Finding the professors at The French Conservatory of Music to be stuck-up pricks, he continued his composing career on his own backed by his fiancée Maria de Marseille. After the opening night of his first concerto, Octavius and Maria got married. They soon had a child named Peter Maximus. After the birth of their child Maria got extremely sick, along with Peter, both died by the unknown illness. He then heard of the Hollow Earth, trying to revive his failing composing career, he sought for the Hollow Earth so he could compose the world’s best opera.
APPEARANCE: Octavius is 5’4’’, is 40 years of age, weighs 135 lbs, and is of mixed blood, including French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish origins.
SHOTS FIRED: 1
Crocus 'Croc' Neidr played by GENTOO44 (6 Style Points)
”The only thing better than finding a new cave to map out, is making one yourself.” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Gentoo44-CrocusNeidr.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Crocus, who much prefers the nickname given is his childhood, 'Croc', was born in a family of two in San Jose, California. Although he is an extremely smart person, he has been getting into trouble ever since his childhood. He unique curiosity led to several 'explosive' situations. His older brother, Seph, had always either overshadowed him, or made sure to be the first to laugh when Croc got himself into a sticky situation. The last time the two were together, it didn't end well.
Croc was simply minding his own business in the desert far away from homes, attempting to break his old record of how deep a hole he blow into the sand using chemicals from around the house. He thought the 'Do Not Enter! Blast Zone!' Signs made it pretty clear to stay out, but his brother and her girlfriend, Emily, had unwittingly strayed into the zone. Croc set of the bomb, unknowing of the danger. The blast was immaculate. Emily was killed instantly, ripped apart before she knew what had happened. Seph hadn’t been as lucky. The accident had blown off his left leg, and burned him all across the body. Croc had no idea what to do when he discovered this. Doing the only thing that made sense, he grabbed his stuff and ran away from home, becoming a hitchhiker and earning his nights doing odd jobs. Once Seph had recovered and learned what happened, he was furious at his brother. The near death experience gave him one goal. He swore to take his revenge on Croc for ruining his life...
Croc hasn't seen his brother since that day. Recently, however, he heard of a group of adventurers diving into the belly of the Earth, and he wanted in. He had been accepted in due to his extensive knowledge of healing, and to map out the caverns inside our planet. What he didn't tell them is his proficiency with explosives. He wanted to let that come as a shocking surprise, should the need arise.
APPEARANCE: Croc is a relatively young man, having just hit 22 years old. He is a bit shorter than most people, and is quite skinny for his age. He almost always wears a sly smile, indicating something's up. He has an attractive face, with dirty blonde hair, which grows to about neck height, and dark green eyes. He caries a small pack, not containing much more than food, explosives, and the surgical equipment he's required to bring. He is 22 years of age, 5’6’’, weighs 134 lbs, and is American.
Marcus Smith played by SILVERKISS
”You studied biology your whole life ? So what, loser, I know much more than you, and I only spent a few hours reading. That animal is not dangerous.” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Silverkiss-MarcusSmith.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Marcus was born into a wealthy family, and as such got the opportunity to study in the best schools. However, he always felt he was better than his own teachers, and instead of going to school, he went to the library, where he learned alone from books. The only teacher Marcus ever respected was Horace D. Featherdale, not as much for his knowledge but for his personality and his attitude.
He joined the expedition in search of lost knowledge and new things to learn.
APPEARANCE: Marcus dons a pair of glasses over his blue eyes, and likes to keep his dark hair cut. He is not strong, but his body is not frail either, and he has good coordination and agility. He likes to dress well. He is 27 years of age, 5’8’’, weighs 160 lbs, and is American.
James 'Quinn' Harley-Quinn played by JETTWILDERBEAST
”Just wait 'till London hears of this! Then they'll never forget James Harley-Quinn!” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Jettwilderbeast-JamesHarley-Qui.jpg)
”Just wait 'till London hears of this! Then they'll never forget James Harley-Quinn!”
BACKGROUND: James Harley-Quinn, or Quinn to his friends, is a reporter for The Daily Express in London and a very good one at that, a young rising star for the papers Quinn constantly gets the scoop he needs. Though he doesn't worry too much how he gets it. Quinn will happily turn to thievery or blackmail to get the story he needs and more importantly the personal glory that comes with it.
James Harley-Quinn was born to a middle class family in Eastern England who allowed him to chase his dream of being a world class reporter, he worked on local papers in his area and it wasn't long before his enthusiastic style of writing and knack of getting the story won him a job at The Daily Express in London. Quinn packed his bags and stayed in a distant relatives house until he could find a room in a shared house with work colleagues. Quinn's first big story in London came when he uncovered a money-laundering ring in London's seedy underworld locking up several gang bosses and making enemies of several more. More stories of the same caliber followed and Quinn swiftly became one of London's best reporters, as well as the highlight of the social scene, during his time off Quinn is a large party man and frequents many clubs of ill repute as well as gentlemen's clubs and exclusive dinner parties. Quinn likes a smoke and a drink but more importantly Quinn likes to chase the dragon. Opium dens are an old haunt of Quinn's as he says he needs to get away sometimes and an addiction has been going strong for many months now. The addiction first began on a night out where Quinn was offered opium and under peer pressure he obliged, Quinn now has to go to an opium den every few days now and if he doesn't get his fix he really doesn't feel well at all.
APPEARANCE: Quinn is a young man eager for the world and this comes across straight away. Quinn is a reporter for the London paper The Daily Express and as such Quinn always has a camera thrown over his shoulder so he can be ready for the all-important scoop. He is a good-looking man with medium length hair, a good-looking face and cheeky eyes. Quinn is in good shape and as such wears clothes to suit his work. Quinn can often seen wearing dark brown trousers with sturdy boots that he can rely on, he wears a creamy white fitted shirt with his sleeves rolled up and braces over his shoulders. In London, Quinn is often seen with a good leather backpack (often only on one shoulder) carrying camera film, food and a few 'tools' to help him in his work.
Joseph Arronson played by KOPOUT
”Don't patronize me, I know exactly what I'm doing. Now where did I put my shoe?” (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Kopout-JosephArronson.jpg)
BACKGROUND: The son of a carpenter, his father was always trying to interest him is his work, though Joseph was content to play in the dirt and watch bugs. That has not changed. He still enjoys watching and learning. Never one for long term plans and with a memory like a sieve he almost did not finish his doctorate degree in biology.
Working closely with his professor, Horance D. Featherdale, Joseph learned of an expedition into uncharted territory. Joseph decided to accompany his professor on to the expedition…
APPEARANCE: Of average height and weight there is nothing much to identify Joseph Arronson from the crowed except for his unkempt appearance. He does possess a rare child-like joy at discovering new things and a love of animals, but these are only known to his friends. Joseph is 5’9’’, weighs 150 lbs, and is 34 years of age.
Horance D. Featherdale played by WADLEDO
"Ah, it's more scared of you than you are of it. Give it a smack it on the nose and it'll leave you alone. Why I remember an old friend of mine, Thomas Scott, damned good man with a rifle, he would shove those damned walruses right off their icebergs. When was that? Around, oh, possibly the fourth....?" (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff197/Blumboman/Hollow%20Earth%20Expedition/HEX-Wadledo-HoranceDFeatherdale.jpg)
BACKGROUND: Horance D. Featherdale was born in 1857, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to a Mrs. Gertrude Featherdale and a Mr. David Featherdale. Growing up on his grandfather’s stories of world travel and adventure, he ran away to join the circus at age 8.
After this failed miserably, he was sent to a small boarding school near Harvard, where he spent his weekends exploring the majesty that is learning.
At 14, one of his distant uncles insisted he join him on a round the world trip, where for the next 6 years he saw all the corners of the earth, eventually coming back home to get a teaching degree from Harvard, then escaping away every year or so, bringing back bones, scars, tiny aboriginal skulls stuffed with elephant dung (but only once, and that was a birthday present from a high shaman) and stories.
So, after 40+ years of adventuring, he settled down, teaching faithfully for ten years, and all the while scaring the bejesus out of the other ol'coots.
That is, until he learned that Eugeen Van Mieghem, an old friend and confidant, had died. With the specter of death over his shoulder, he decided that time was he "got back into the game", much to the relief of his fellow professors.