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  1. - Top - End - #1
    Troll in the Playground
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    Default Masks: Junior Guardians

    Junior Guardians Issue 1: Things Come Together

    Guardian Tower - 10:53 AM

    When you were told to be at Guardian Tower at 9 AM, you might have expected to be met at the front door by the Guardians themselves, decked out in their full regalia. You might have expected an adventure, or being led to some high-tech meeting room for a briefing on threats to the city. You probably didn't expect paperwork, but paperwork is what happened. Each new Junior Guardian was met by a pencil-pusher with a clipboard and a painfully large stack of forms to be filled out. Since when do superheroes have to do certification tests, sign waivers and write out medical declarations and non-disclosure agreements, anyways? Almost two hours of mind-numbing reading and writing would be enough to try anyone's patience, and doing it all in-costume when you expected something great almost certainly isn't going to help. Still, eventually the mountain of white sheets is cleared out, and all five Junior Guardians are led up to the tower's third floor and ushered into what looks like some sort of living space. A low table surrounded by slightly dusty but still comfortable-looking couches dominates the centre of the room, while a bar counter and kitchen nestle in one corner. Several open doors occupy one side of the room, seemingly leading to small bedrooms, and the wall opposite the door you came in is one massive window, giving a decent view of Guardian Plaza... And the sides of the other skyscrapers adjacent to the tower. The space probably would have been extremely impressive a couple of decades ago, but pretty much everything in here looks like it's been mostly untouched since the 80's.

    Before there's much chance for any sort of conversation to develop, the doors open again and another group of five enters. In front is the unmistakable figure of Captain Shatterstar, gemstone glittering on his breastplate and famous smile firmly planted on his handsome, if slightly more wrinkled than he tends to look in the comic books, face. On one side of him is Ferriqueen, her armoured form more than a little imposing in the mundane environment, and a middle-aged woman with swarthy skin, a plain pantsuit and the ubiquitous badge of a HCPD Detective hanging around her neck, who gives you an appraising look. On the Captain's other flank stand a man in shabby jeans and a Hawaiian shirt, wearing a pair of aviator sunglasses and fiddling with a cell phone and... What appears to be a life-sized, wax sculpture of President Lincoln, complete with suit and top-hat. Nobody (except possibly Foreigner) could possibly mistake that for anything else, though the wax figure seems to be remarkably spry for an inanimate object and its lifeless eyes move to look at you one after another.

    Once everyone's inside, Captain Shatterstar clears his throat and speaks. "Welcome, young heroes. I apologise for the paperwork; the Guardians have a lot of people helping to make sure we're the best heroes we can be, and that means we can't afford to be lax in observing legalities." He gives you one of his trademarked smiles, light glittering off his coppery half-helmet. "We're nearly finished with the formalities now, so I hope you can bear with me for a few more moments. Assembled here are some of the people who will be helping you to excel as a team." He gestures first to the armoured figure on his left. "You may recognize Ferriqueen. In the event that you find yourself in need of new equipment, you will want to speak with her."

    Ferriqueen herself speaks with a clearly synthesized, mechanical voice. "I am quite busy. Do not bother me with anything unimportant. Lives are at stake."

    The Captain then gestures again, to the woman just past Ferriqueen. "I would also like to introduce Detective Lopez. She-."

    Surprisingly, Detective Lopez doesn't bother to let Shatterstar finish. "I'm your police liaison and legal advisor. Just call me Lopez. If you need to interact with the HCPD, or you have any questions about police procedure or what you're legally allowed to do as a private Superhero, talk to me." She gestures to her ear. "I'll be available 24/7 for the next couple of months, pretty much, so there's no excuse for any of you kids to do something stupid and get yourselves in trouble. If you have any doubts about anything, contact me first. Oh, right, and the Chief wanted me to pass on his gratitude for your assistance. That was good work." She somehow manages to look a little bit grim even as she passes along the compliment.

    Captain Shatterstar takes a moment to make sure she's finished, then continues. "Er, right. We'll be providing you with communicators, which you can use to contact the Guardians or Detective Lopez when you're on the job. Next is Lester Peirson, our media relations specialist." He gestures to the man in the Hawaiian shirt, who tears his eyes off his phone for a moment.

    "Right. That's me. Look, if any of you kids actually want my help with the media, come talk to me. Most of you are just going to run your mouths off any time a reporter puts a camera in your face anyways. It's not like a superhero needs help from some money-grubbing normie like me." He shoots a dirty look at Ferriqueen, for some reason, who mostly ignores him in response. "Otherwise, I mostly handle sponsorships, endorsements and licensing deals. If you need a bit more cash flow, let me know and I'll see if I can't find someone who wants to stick your likeness somewhere." With his short, vaguely morally offensive speech finished, he returns to fiddling with his phone.

    Finally, the wax sculpture of a famous President steps forwards, without being introduced. "Good morning, young Heroes. They call me Honest Abe, and I am the dispatcher for the Guardians. I handle communications for the entire team, and will be doing my best to provide you with support in the field. I monitor the Guardians communication channels, along with other useful sources of information, day and night to ensure that the Heroes who put their lives on the line have every edge available. Being a mere possessed statue, I require neither food nor rest, so with the rare exception of meetings like these, I am always present in the Guardians' watch station. I look forwards to working with you all." The statue nods its head, top hat dipping a little lower, and resumes its statesmanlike pose.

    Finally, Captain Shatterstar speaks again. "So, that's it for introductions. You'll be able to meet the rest of the Guardians in-person later on; for now, I expect you'll appreciate the opportunity to take a break, and perhaps ask some questions. I'll gather everyone together again in half an hour or so to give you your communicators and further instructions." With a gesture, the five in front of you break apart to different parts of the room, and the Junior Guardians finally have the freedom to act once more.

    Spoiler: OOC
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    What do you do?
    Avatar by the wonderful SubLimePie. Former avatar by Andraste.

  2. - Top - End - #2
    Titan in the Playground
     
    Ramsus's Avatar

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    For the first half hour Facet had been wearing her full costume. When it became apparently they were going to be doing an extensive amount of paparwork, she removed her gauntlets. She kept The Eye of Terros Crayg on though, largely so that she could see how the others were filling out their paperwork at the same time as she did hers. She finally removed the artifact-as-helmet too when Captain Shatterstar entered the room.

    She patiently listens to everyone while they talk. When they're finished she walks over to Lester Peirson and takes one of his hands in both of hers and says to him in a kindly tone and reassuring smile, "Do not dismiss your value so readily. While many of your kind are nothing more than vultures, there are also people like you who provide great value. Heroes like Bespoke for instance could not do what they do without your kind. Do you know him?"

  3. - Top - End - #3
    Barbarian in the Playground
     
    Lizardfolk

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    It wasn't a great start to the day, Foreigner had barely learnt to speak English let alone having to read page after page of it. Impossible. Luckily one of the pencil pushers were kind enough to read it for him, after some convincing.

    Then taken up to the room it he looked all around at it, the vibrant colors, the thin layers of dust and the interesting furniture. "This... is... fabulous." The whole design really fit his aesthetic and that was something he could always appreciate. Certainly a photo shoot or two will be done here before his time is done. As the speech begun he listened to everyone ramble on about things he had little interest in but made a note to lean to the nearest team members, who happened to be Kid Collier at the time, and whispered during Honest Abe's speech. "Sheesh he could have picked a better dressing statue. That hat and beard combo should be considered murder."

    After it all he had wanted to go up to the media organizer and hand him the list of companies he had already prepped up, but he wouldn't dare interrupt Facet so he just decided to float about in a lying down position in the background.

  4. - Top - End - #4
    Orc in the Playground
     
    WhiteWizardGirl

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    Filling out the forms had been a long and agonizing process for Jackson. Someone trying to keep a secret identity usually has a bad time with forms asking for information to be filled out, he hadn’t even thought about making a separate signature for Arthropod.

    Why the heck would they put the papers to make a superhero identity separate from my civilian one on the very bottom of the stack?

    In addition to the paperwork troubles, Jackson’s heavy costume was starting to get uncomfortable. He had designed it for protection and mobility in fights, but it clearly was not built for sitting still for hours doing paperwork. The mask was already getting hot and cramped, so Jackson longed to take it off for even a few seconds. Half the fun of being a superhero was to escape the tedium of sitting around and filling out worksheets in class, so why was he here doing the same thing?

    When the Guardians arrive, however, his mood completely changes. His face lights up under the mask and he sits upright, excited to see some of the actual guardians in the flesh, wax, and armor.

    He listens and nods through the presentations, stopping to scowl during Lester’s portion of the speech. When he hears ‘media relations’ he starts to wonder about his own negative coverage, but by the end of his speech he is too reminded of the more unpleasant politicians that he knows to want to get help from the guy. Still, he remembers the name just in case public opinion ever really gets bad.

    When the Guardians disperse, he turns to the rest of the junior guardians. I can’t believe that we actually made it, we’re an actual official team. He gestures to the overwhelming stacks of paperwork that everyone had to do. Emphasis on the official, am I right? Quite a difference from last time we were in this tower.

    Hearing Facet attempting to be inspiring surprises Jackson, but he appreciates the sincerity. Then he thinks about what he just heard again and seems taken aback. Wait, when you say that many of his kind are ‘vultures’ do you mean media people or ‘normies’?
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  5. - Top - End - #5
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    Facet turns her head at this surprise question. Her eyebrows raise in.... is that delighted surprise? "Oh! What an interesting question! Hmmmmm. I had meant the people in that profession. But I do suppose it applies to 'normies' as you put it as well." She tilts her head to the side in consideration at this last bit and after a moment adds. "I suppose that category would also include myself and mother. We are just regular humans with certain unusual skillsets after all. Though.... I don't think vulture would be the right word to describe mother. A little too unflattering and a little too.... benign?" She nods at her own words as if it was actually a question and someone other than her had provided an affirmative answer. "And as for myself.... well I may scavenge a bit of technology and magical items here and there, but I hope to earn better monikers even if that one would still apply...." At this she just seems to trail off mentally in thought for a moment.

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    PaladinGuy

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    Quote Originally Posted by Jumbus View Post
    Then taken up to the room it he looked all around at it, the vibrant colors, the thin layers of dust and the interesting furniture. "This... is... fabulous."
    As he stood with his helmet under his arm, Kid Collier gave Foreigner a sideways glance, wondering what the outsider was thinking. Maybe the distance between their worlds meant images of 21st Century decor hadn’t reached his people yet. This place looked straight out of pictures of Pop’s house when Dad was young.

    Shatterstar’s entrance pulled him from his criticisms and KC listened to the introductions; Ferriqueen’s position as armorer intrigued him most, especially since the Harley still needed a little work to get back to fighting shape after a couple decades of neglect. However, he really wanted to talk to the police liaison first; Dad told him many times it was important to have a good working relationship with the police...even the gruff ones.

    He approached Detective Lopez and introduced himself, then asked, “Detective, what can we do to best help your people when we’re out on patrol? Will Abe relay dispatches for assistance? Or, will we have a way to communicate directly with your beat cops in case of an issue?

  7. - Top - End - #7
    Troll in the Playground
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    The man in the Hawaiian Shirt: Facet and Arthropod
    Lester actually puts his phone away over the course of Facet's monologue, a goofy half-grin creeping across his face as Arthropod interrupts her and she responds. By the end, he's chuckling softly to himself. "Okay, funny as that was, if I can give you a piece of advice... Don't do any of that if you're on camera. You start calling yourself a vulture, calling people 'normies' and talking about Nonpareil without prompting, the pundits will tear you apart. I can probably write you up some basic talking points if you want, but the quick tip is 'don't remind people you grew up working for a wannabe tyrant'. If you bring it up, you can't turn it around by calling the interviewer a tactless jackass for doing it first." He waves the hand that isn't holding a cellular phone vaguely in front of your face and gives both Facet and Arthropod a vaguely seedy smile. "And, frankly, I know exactly how valuable my work is. You think some loser gets away with dressing like me, in my line of work? I finance this whole operation, kid. The Guardians would be operating out of a shack in the boonies without the money that rolls in from advertising schmucks and licencing deals. Not my fault some of them can't figure that out."




    The Woman with the Badge: Kid Collier
    Detective Lopez doesn't react beyond looking out the window she's leaning against, not looking you in the eye, but her tone of voice is quite a bit warmer. "Good question. Heroes don't transmit on police frequencies, but Abe has a direct line to police dispatch. If you need to call something in, just talk to him and he'll get the message through." She runs a hand through her hair and turns to look more directly at you. "I don't know exactly what goes on from the Guardians' side, but I can tell you HCPD policy. We prefer to handle non-powered crime ourselves. It's better for everyone that way, and most uniforms will give you flak for getting in their way if you start trying to track down a corner store bandit or something. In the event we run into some loony in a battlesuit or a Meta on a rampage, we send out an alert to all the heroes on the network. If you're anywhere near the incident, you'll definitely get that message. In that case, the boys on the ground want your help; they'll probably offer to buy you a bee- er, coffee, once the dust settles." She turns back to looking out the window. "Of course, if you happen to witness a crime, or you notice a Meta causing problems before we do, nobody's going to get on your case for doing something about it. Just call it in, and make sure to follow instructions from the uniforms when they get to the scene. God, I remember when Solarian used to fly perps straight to prison after beating them up..." She grimaces. "Anyways, if you want to know more about what he does, you should probably talk to Abe."
    Avatar by the wonderful SubLimePie. Former avatar by Andraste.

  8. - Top - End - #8
    Ogre in the Playground
     
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    Magical Munitions Maiden Maria had determined the true evil in the world.
    It wasn't the Swarm, it wasn't the Slaughterer, it wasn't even the Demalions. No, it was paperwork, and the wicked minds behind this result of amazon deforestation.

    The magical girl - fully transformed into her tactical sailor suit - had expected... well, meeting more heroes. Around half way through, the words on the pages had started blurring together and she'd had to fight to not either go cross-eyed or pass out from boredom.

    When it was finally over, the petite girl rolled her neck in precisely the right way to click it horribly, and looked at the heroes who had entered.

    "So, um!" she said cheerfully."I'm pleased to be able to work alongside fellow allies of justice! Will we be directly working alongside you and the rest of the Guardians much in the field, or is it a more indirect support sort of thing?"
    Last edited by Awful; 2019-10-05 at 12:02 PM.
    And the far stars cried, and the planets yearned;
    But no man may know, for she'll ne'er return.

  9. - Top - End - #9
    Orc in the Playground
     
    WhiteWizardGirl

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    I’m going to have to concur with Lester here, I don’t think you’ll be able to make it five minutes in front of the press. Although knowing what the news seems to think of me, I might not be one to talk He chuckles under his breath, to show that he means it at least partly as a joke.

    Then Jackson tilts his head in thought, wondering about Lester. This man clearly seems to be trying to help him and Facet, but he also gave off the impression of a money-grubbing sleazebag. There was clearly more to him, the car-salesman-like persona didn’t square with the fact that Lester was here helping a junior team of superheroes. Jackson was the son of a politician, though, so he knew how to weave flattery and probing questions together.

    As Lester finishes explaining how valuable he is, Jackson laughs loud enough to hear through his mask. I know what you’re taking about, the guy not wearing a suit is either an idiot or someone so competent they don’t need to wear one. I’m pretty sure which kind you are, but that raises the question: why would someone skilled enough to get the money for this thing Jacksons gloved hand gestures to the window overlooking the plaza, clearly an expensive property working for a team of costumed crime-fighters that barely appreciate his work? I’m sure there are plenty of other places that would hire you
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  10. - Top - End - #10
    Troll in the Playground
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    The man in the Hawaiian Shirt: Facet and Arthropod
    Lester chuckles. "Maybe it's just what I do, kid. Maybe..." His phone buzzes for a moment, and he looks down at it. "Ah. Damn, I need to take this. Look, you need my help, Abe or Captain S. can tell you how to get a hold of me. Otherwise, it looks like duty calls." He immediately puts the phone to his ear and moves at a brisk pace towards the doors to the room, and starts talking shortly after turning away from you. "Hey, Mac, it's Les... Yeah, I hear ya. No, no, there's no need to worry about that. Steve and I pretty much have that whole angle under control..."

    Without so much as a gesture he pushes his way out of the room and leaves both of the young heroes who were speaking with him to their own devices.



    The Hero of Justice: Maria
    Captain Shatterstar... Appears to be pouring himself a glass of orange juice from the refrigerator in the kitchen when you catch up to him. It looks kind of incongruous, with him in his full costume, but he turns to look you in the eye and listens seriously to your question, and replies quickly once you're finished. "Would you like a glass, while I'm pouring?" A brief pause as he waits for a response. "If I'm honest, it's a rare day when we pull the entire team together for something, Maria. Is it alright if I call you Maria? These days the Guardians exist mostly as a response to major threats; our individual members are all capable heroes in their own right, and even powerful villains generally don't demand the presence of all of us. I sincerely hope nothing happens that would require both our team and yours in full to resolve, though we won't hesitate to call for you if something like that does come to pass." He pauses a moment to take a drink. "However, the incident with the Swarm made it clear that coordinating more than one team has its advantages as well. My hope is that your team will help act as a reserve, able to deal with problems even once the main Guardians team is deployed. In addition, I've felt for some time that... Well, we simply don't do enough to support the next generation of heroes. My hope is that by providing you with more resources, and giving you access to the experience of our team members, will help prepare you to step into our shoes one day. I plan to have each of the Guardians work alongside you in the future, to give you an opportunity to learn from them and grow your own skills." He looks towards the window, greying hair glittering slightly in the light. "I hope that answers your question?"



    Top Hat and Beard: Foreigner
    Not long after Foreigner decides to relax and float around, a shadow moves between him and the light from the window. It looks like the waxy guy with the top hat and beard has walked up to him, for some reason. He clears his throat (or at least makes a sound approximating it, considering the man doesn't seem to actually have a hole there that would need cleared). "I apologise if I am bothering you, but I confess to some curiosity. Why did you choose to be called 'Foreigner'? That name is highly unusual for a superhero, and generally carries negative connotations."
    Avatar by the wonderful SubLimePie. Former avatar by Andraste.

  11. - Top - End - #11
    Barbarian in the Playground
     
    Lizardfolk

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    Negative connotations. Negative con-o-tay-shons. Foreigner had heard that word before but surely it didn't mean what Abe thought it meant. As he checked the dictionary it had slowly dawned on him that he had not misheard and Abe had meant to say that. Foreigner? Negative connotations? "You may have misspoke there, I use this name to represent the collection of the Earths greatest philosophers and scholars. I don't see how that carries negative con-o-tay-shons." Foreigner was about to fire back talking about Abe's dress sense but he wouldn't disrespect a superior with such a critical insult.

    Spoiler: Foreigners Floating Pose
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    That pose but of course trade out a fat cat for a muscly 80's dress teen.

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    Facet's gaze lingers on Lester as he leaves as she'd wanted to respond to what he said to her before Arthropod had cut in. As she turns her gaze back on the rest of the place she first spots Detective Lopez, but she thinks to herself that it's probably not a good idea for her to initiate conversations with police officers given her mother has probably directly and indirectly killed and harmed enough of them that the detective might have known one or more personally.

    Next she spots Foreigner and the wax man. Well, she had wanted to ask things of him too. She walks over and says, since apparently it's socially acceptable to just cut into conversations other people are having at the slightest pause, "Excuse me. I have a place I am trying to fix up for possible team uses, how would I go about requisitioning the necessary supplies?"
    While she speaks, she also extends her mystic sense to try and figure out what the wax man's situation is.


    I assume this is Unleash Your Powers: (2d6+1)[8]
    Last edited by Ramsus; 2019-10-06 at 12:05 AM.

  13. - Top - End - #13
    Orc in the Playground
     
    WhiteWizardGirl

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    Dang that guy is good Jackson says under his breath as Lester leaves. Not only did he deflect the questions, but he didn’t even acknowledge them while exiting. Jackson stood there stunned for a second, happy that the mask hid the surprised expression on his face.

    With Lester gone, Jackson considered who else to talk to. He didn’t really feel confident enough to talk to Shatterstar, and Ferriqueen clearly didn’t want to be bothered. He wasn’t going to interrupt Foreigner and Abe, the things that aliens and wax presidents discuss are probably beyond human understanding. That left the police officer, Detective Lopez.

    He greets the Detective in a friendly manner, immediately remembering something he wanted to ask. Hey, you remember the attack on this tower a while ago? I was wondering if your people have found anything about what the Swarm was trying to do here. I know I probably should have done a bit of investigating myself, but once multiple teams and independent heroes joined the fray things became too chaotic for that.
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  14. - Top - End - #14
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    PaladinGuy

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    KC thanked the detective and stepped back toward the middle of the room; he watched for a moment as Abe interacted with Foreigner. Hearing his fellow hero's answer, he came to a sudden realization.

    The band. He named himself after an 80s band. Would that mean his home is some 30-40 light-years away? Tommy wondered. He considered the concept for a moment, then shook his head and found his way to Ferriqueen.

    "Ma'am, I hope you won't consider this a waste of time, but I could use some help with Po -- I mean, the Original Collier's bike," he began, trying to be as respectful of the heroine's time as possible. "I've fixed it up as best I can, but it's acceleration is a bit sluggish in the higher gears, and I can't seem to figure it out. Do you have a mechanic on staff, or someone you could recommend?"
    Last edited by seatyger; 2019-10-07 at 10:57 PM.

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    "Oh! Yes, please."
    Maria took up the cup once poured and held it wiith both hands, sipping it. The sweet flavour of sugar-laden citrus filled her mouth.
    "That does answer my question, yes. I have already been receiving," she paused for a second to think of the word, "Tutoring with my own magical girl Senpai, but it will be good to learn from different skills and points of view."
    It might be quite busy, with school, training and working with Sophia, and then this, but the magical girl felt confident she was up to it.
    "If I may ask - why have you not taken on an apprentice before now? Even if your other teammates were not interested, you could have had your own protégé, much as I am for Shining Shield Sister Sophia."
    And the far stars cried, and the planets yearned;
    But no man may know, for she'll ne'er return.

  16. - Top - End - #16
    Troll in the Playground
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    Top Hat and Beard: Foreigner and Facet
    Honest Abe's head tilts to a fairly sharp angle. At first glance you might guess as a result of confusion... But honestly, it puts it right into line with Foreigner's tilted midair slouch. He speaks again, his sonorous voice betraying no significant emotion. "I apologise, but I don't understand. Could you please explain? I do not know of any connection between 'foreigners' and 'philosophers'."

    Behind the wax sculpture, Facet approaches and asks her own question, causing Abe to turn around and regard her. He's... Tall, up close. Was Abraham Lincoln really that tall? Facet extends her magical senses, trying to understand what magic animates the statue, and it takes very little time to receive her answer. Facet's vision swims, and she can already feel the beginnings of a headache, but outlining the wax President for a moment is a spirit, a sort of demon unlike those her mother occasionally summons as minions (or power sources for her more esoteric technology). It's immediately clear that this isn't a ghost inhabiting a likeness of itself; it's a nonhuman spirit possessing the sculpture. But why would the Guardians shelter a demon? And why did looking at it with your spiritual senses, even for a few moments, cause you actual physical pain?

    Abe seems to notice your discomfort, if nothing else. "That depends on what you need. For simple supplies like food or water, I may be able to assist. We had intended to give you this space to use, which would also give you access to many of Guardian Tower's resources, but I see no reason you would not be allowed to set up additional safehouses if necessary. If you need more complicated equipment, you will need to speak to Ferriqueen or Veteran, however. Depending on what you need, Mr. Peirson may be able to assist as well. He is quite resourceful." The sculpture pauses for a moment. "Are you quite alright? You appear to be suffering some discomfort."



    The Woman with the Badge: Arthropod
    Detective Lopez turns away from the window to look at you as you start to ask your question. After you're finished, she closes her eyes and seems to consider for a moment before answering. "You did the right thing. I bet the Guardians appreciated you not poking around while you were here. A lot of heroes are pretty territorial like that, at least in my experience. To answer your question... I'm not sure. I'm not on that investigation. I'd be willing to bet they were either trying to get up to the watch station at the top of the tower, hoping to steal information, or into the vaults where the Guardians store their relics and confiscated super-weapons. Well, assuming those vaults are even here, but the rumours certainly say they are." She shrugs. "I could put in an information request for you with the department, if there's something bothering you about it. Or you could try asking the Guardians themselves. There's no way Captain Shatterstar isn't following up on that."



    Queen of Steel and Circuits: Kid Collier
    Ferriqueen appears to be... Standing perfectly still in a corner, not doing anything or looking at anyone, as you approach her. She makes no reaction at all until you've already started talking to her, at which point the hero's armoured helmet turns to gaze upon you. Once you're finished she emits a weird, clearly computer-generated tone that sounds vaguely like an angry dial tone. Was that supposed to be a sigh? "I suppose I will cease my important work to humour you. You want my help fixing a motorcycle? Trivial. I could lend you a couple of repair drones and a simple expert system to accomplish such a minor task, and avoid wasting too much time. Provide me a full schematic..." She stops for a moment, and her limbs twitch a little bit, seeming to become a bit more animate. "The original Collier's motorcycle, you say? You are using it now? Interesting. Perhaps you would like an additional function added? I have a gravity generator I have been intending to test. I might be able to miniaturize it to work with your grandfather's machine. Surely added maneuverability would be desirable, and a more valuable use of resources than a simple 'tune-up'." Her glowing eye-lenses stare directly at you, unblinking.



    The Hero of Justice: M4
    Captain Shatterstar looks away from you for a moment, a frown forming briefly on his face. "I... Considered it a couple of times, but I'd be a terrible mentor that way. Between my duties with the Guardians, my work and... Well, the other issues I sometimes I have to deal with, I don't have as much time as I would like. I'm afraid you'll probably need to do without me more often than not. And, really, my most important Power is being nearly impossible to hurt. I'm not sure my example would be terribly good to encourage in tomorrow's heroes. This will work much better as a team effort." He shakes his head. "Though, speaking of that, I hope that you can introduce me to your, um... 'Sem-pie', some day. I haven't had the pleasure of meeting her in person."
    Last edited by DaedalusMkV; 2019-10-08 at 12:16 AM.
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  17. - Top - End - #17
    Barbarian in the Playground
     
    Lizardfolk

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    Foreigner held his hand up to his head as if he was having a headache, "Foreigner... For - en - ER, I don't mean to be rude but theres only one Foreigner and theres no way you could confuse them for a..." He sifted through his dictionary again "plural." Foreigner was beginning to get frustrated with the questions about his name as if the name itself didn't answer all those questions. He still didn't want to be rude however so he pulled out the iPod from his pocket queued up this 'music' hes gotten into and tosses it over to Abe. "Here catch, listen to that for a couple of days. But give it back."

  18. - Top - End - #18
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    Facet just sort of stares blankly with no comprehension about what Foreigner is on about.... and also is clearly just waiting for him to finish with his part of the interaction so she can speak again. While she does so she rubs her single organic eye to dull the pain.

    "Yes, just a bit of a headache caused by my assessing your nature. I am both surprised by the fact that you are not in fact a ghost and that this caused me discomfort."
    Without even a pause she moves on to replying about the other topic, "I suppose some amount of food stores and regular resupply or the means to construct an indoor automated hydroponic farm would be useful. Though my intention was to ask for various fabricated materials, in particular wiring, and perhaps some furniture. I could send you a list digitally."

  19. - Top - End - #19
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    WhiteWizardGirl

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    Jackson leans against the window in thought.

    I think I would like you to file an information request, and I’ll see if any of the Guardians can tell me anything. Maybe I’m just being paranoid but the attack on the Guardians base and prison happened simultaneously, so there’s a chance this was a coordinated attack on the team that I’m part of. It’s probably a coincidence, and if someone is targeting the Guardians they probably already have ways to defend themselves, but I appreciate you indulging me.

    Arthropod glances out the window to admire the view.Anything specific you’re staring at out there, or is this just a good spot to brood?
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  20. - Top - End - #20
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    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    Quote Originally Posted by DaedalusMkV View Post
    "I suppose I will cease my important work to humour you. You want my help fixing a motorcycle? Trivial. I could lend you a couple of repair drones and a simple expert system to accomplish such a minor task, and avoid wasting too much time. Provide me a full schematic..."
    Tommy furrowed his brows. "I mean, it is my only means of getting around in costume, so it's kinda important...," he countered a bit sheepishly, running his fingers through his hair.

    Quote Originally Posted by DaedalusMkV View Post
    "The original Collier's motorcycle, you say? You are using it now? Interesting. Perhaps you would like an additional function added? I have a gravity generator I have been intending to test. I might be able to miniaturize it to work with your grandfather's machine. Surely added maneuverability would be desirable, and a more valuable use of resources than a simple 'tune-up'." Her glowing eye-lenses stare directly at you, unblinking
    "Grav generator? As in turning it into a hoverbike?" KC asked rhetorically, because, of course that's what she was saying. "That would be so...." he caught her gaze and stopped short, adding, "Yes, please. That would be huge."

  21. - Top - End - #21
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    Definitely not a Lincoln: Facet and Foreigner
    Abe tries to reach out and grab the thrown music player, but it slips right through his wax fingers and clatters to the ground. "Oops. I apologise. I'm afraid this body of mine is ill-suited to fine dexterity. It's part of why I don't go out much." The statue reaches down and picks it up with two fingers, like he's afraid of breaking it. "Foreigner is... A musical group, then? Hum. I suppose I'll look into it, though I prefer classical fare for the most part. I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question."

    With that done, Abe addresses Facet. "Oh, yes. I strongly suggest avoiding the use of magic divinations on me. The stronger the divination, the greater the effect. I believe Mysti-gal nearly caused herself permanent damage that way." The wax President remains silent for a few seconds, seemingly pondering your request. "Simple preserves should be no problem. We keep quite a bit of canned food on hand here, just in case. For wiring or technological supplies, you will need to speak with Ferriqueen, or perhaps ask Mr. Peirson to introduce you to a civilian contractor. For furniture, Veteran approves requests of that nature. Most Guardians simply buy such things for themselves as a result."




    Looking out the Window: Arthropod
    As Arthropod asks his question, Lopez shakes her head. "No, I just want to keep an eye on the protestors. And the counter-protestors. The Chief posted a bunch of officers out there to keep the peace, but that doesn't mean it won't get ugly." She shrugs. "I'll put in a request for you. You might even get it, now that you're sponsored by the Guardians. Just... Don't expect any info about what happened at the prison. AEGIS is all over that one, and it's out of our jurisdiction. I'd have an easier time squeezing beer out of a rock than getting anything from the soldier boys."

    When Jackson looks out the window properly, it doesn't take long to figure out what the Detective is talking about. A bunch of angry-looking people are clustered in front of the building, waving signs. The bigger ones are pretty legible from here, and it's not too hard to make out slogans like 'No Gods in Halcyon' and 'Metas go home!', whatever that's supposed to mean. A few uniformed officers separate those protestors from another group, mostly dressed in bright colours and wearing stylized masks, whose signs show the logos and names of famous Halcyon superheroes. One of them seems to be dressed in a fairly convincing Captain Shatterstar costume, and appears to be standing on top of a big box and shouting at the less colourful group.




    The Queen of Steel and Circuits: Kid Collier
    Ferriqueen lets out some sort of synthetic tone again. This one was more like a broken speaker trying to play a song with way too much bass. "No. That would require too many changes. Easier just to build a new machine. If you want to fly, just buy a jetpack or use a hoversled. No, my gravity generator would work with the existing functions of the device. Simple use would allow for impossibly long jumps; with practice, you could use it to ride up or along walls, as though you were on the ground. Directional gravitation, working with the motorcycle's existing functionality. Too many changes would ruin the aesthetics." She points one mechanical finger at you. "You are using a piece of history, young man. You should respect that. Still, you were intelligent to seek me out for this matter, and wise to see the value in my creative ability. Clearly you are less foolish than the rest of these 'Junior Guardians'. Continue to make logical decisions like these and you will do well."


    Spoiler: Kid Collier
    Show

    Ferriqueen is telling you that you're Superior to the other members of your team.

    You can accept what she says and shift your Superior up and Mundane down, or attempt to reject her Influence. Which would you prefer?
    Avatar by the wonderful SubLimePie. Former avatar by Andraste.

  22. - Top - End - #22
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    "Interesting." Facet comments, though it's unclear which particular piece or pieces of information she finds interesting.

    Looking around she sees that the detective and Arthropod are looking out the window for some reason. Perhaps some kind of bonding moment? She also notices that Ferriqueen, who she needs to talk to about supplies apparently, is currently occupied. So she walks over to Shatterstar who she really wanted to meet in person anyways.

    "Thank you for taking the time to welcome us personally Captain. It is an honor and a privilege to meet you. Certainly not a meeting I had expected to have until I had done more to prove myself to the Guardians." she says and holds her hand out to shake with a big smile on her face.
    While due to the dramatic and informative nature of their first encounter Maria had seen more of Saki's facial expressions than anyone else in this room, this was still the first time she'd seen her with such a bright smile on her face. It's quite different from her, apparently so far, typical calm or contemplative expressions.

    "I wanted to thank you and the others for so readily and warmly welcoming me." she continues, though pauses there for a moment clearly holding back saying something more there. "If it is ok, do you have any advice for me coming to this from a somewhat different way than the others?"
    Half way through talking Maria might notice Saki's smile has faded back to a more analytical expression. It doesn't seem as if Saki is even trying to hide that she's studying Captain Shatterstar to learn what she can from this interaction.


    Pierce the Mask on Captain Shatterstar: (2d6)[10]

    How could I gain Influence over you?
    What do you want me to do?
    What are you really planning?

    Moldable: When you pierce the mask of someone whose respect you crave, you can always ask “How could I gain Influence over you?”, even on a miss. Take +1 ongoing to acting on the answer.
    Last edited by Ramsus; 2019-10-09 at 02:33 AM.

  23. - Top - End - #23
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    WhiteWizardGirl

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    That makes sense, that does look like someone’s gonna start something. I’m looking for someone secretly attacking the Guardians when our enemies are right outside the window, literally

    Arthropod looks down at the two groups, sadly, reminded of the fact that there are that many extremists in the city. Just when his day was starting to look up... he starts to do a little brooding himself, but then his face lights up as he sees what exactly they have on their signs Wait a minute, I have some questions here. So the “no gods in Halcyon” guy thinks superheroes are gods now? Normally the only people who think that highly of me are insects. And look at that other guy. He wants us to ‘go home’ but he’s literally standing outside of Guardian Tower. He’s literally at our home telling us to go back home!

    Arthropod breaks out laughing at the last one, just at the absurdity of it all. Then he remembers his conversation with Lester and pulls out his ‘work’ phone to quickly take a picture of the scene below and send it to Facet. He considers telling her directly but he sees that she’s in a conversation with Shatterstar right now.

    To: Facet
    Attachments: one image
    You know the ‘PR situation’ that the marketing guy got called out to deal with? I think I found it
    Last edited by Quagmire; 2019-10-09 at 09:17 AM.
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  24. - Top - End - #24
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    Facet feels the vibration of the "work phone" but ignores it as she knows everyone who has one is in the room right now so it can't be any kind of emergency and she's busy talking with Captain Shatterstar.

  25. - Top - End - #25
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    PaladinGuy

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    Quote Originally Posted by DaedalusMkV View Post
    Ferriqueen lets out some sort of synthetic tone again. This one was more like a broken speaker trying to play a song with way too much bass. "No. That would require too many changes. Easier just to build a new machine. If you want to fly, just buy a jetpack or use a hoversled. No, my gravity generator would work with the existing functions of the device. Simple use would allow for impossibly long jumps; with practice, you could use it to ride up or along walls, as though you were on the ground. Directional gravitation, working with the motorcycle's existing functionality. Too many changes would ruin the aesthetics." She points one mechanical finger at you. "You are using a piece of history, young man. You should respect that. Still, you were intelligent to seek me out for this matter, and wise to see the value in my creative ability. Clearly you are less foolish than the rest of these 'Junior Guardians'. Continue to make logical decisions like these and you will do well."


    Spoiler: Kid Collier
    Show

    Ferriqueen is telling you that you're Superior to the other members of your team.

    You can accept what she says and shift your Superior up and Mundane down, or attempt to reject her Influence. Which would you prefer?
    "Heck, I'm just a country boy trying to right by folks. But, I really appreciate the upgrade, ma'am; thanks again," KC says. With a nod, he takes his leave of the Queen of Steel. Arthropod's laugh catches his attention, and KC finds his way over to the window.

    "What's so funny?" he asks easily as Arthropod sends a text.

    Spoiler: Rejecting Ferriqueen's Influence
    Show
    Shifting Mundane Up and Superior Down.

  26. - Top - End - #26
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    Foreigner floated down to pick up his iPod, "Anytime Abe." But just as he picked it up he just about dropped it again freezing up for a second. 'Veteran? In charge of furniture?' Foreigner thought personally he had be eyeing around the room looking for places to improve. 'This can't be real' "excuse me, Abe, did you say Veteran was in charge of furniture?" Foreigner was now fully standing on the ground only just realizing how ridiculously tall Abe was "because you know hes not exactly the biggest fan of me and all. And to make things worse have you seen how he dresses? Surely hes not in charge of something as important as furniture?"

  27. - Top - End - #27
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    WhiteWizardGirl

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    This gaggle of ####heads Arthropod says to KC as he sweeps his hand broadly towards the group outside. Their signs don’t even make any sense. Like they want us to ‘go home’ but are protesting in the city with the highest meta population.

    His tone changes then, as he catches his breath from laughing. When he continues speaking it sounds like a rant, and one that has been said many times before. Like I know they’re a quote-unquote “legitimate political moment” and stuff, but how are these guys influencing city policy. I mean, at least the other team can stick to a theme. The pro-super side has a clear leader figure dressed as the Guardians team leader. Like that’s excellent theming. Meanwhile, the anti-meta side has no unifying message of any kind. The ‘no gods’ poster could easily be spun as an anti-faith message which would upset lots of people, and the other sign is basically nonsense. They don’t even have a central issue that they’re protesting. It’s a complete failure of a demonstration.

    Jackson doesn’t seem to realize how bitter he sounds while saying this. He also only criticizes the political strategy of the protesters instead of directly saying anything about disliking anti-meta beliefs, since he usually isn’t able to say anything pro-metahuman-rights while discussing politics.
    Last edited by Quagmire; 2019-10-09 at 05:13 PM.
    I go by They/Them pronouns, BTW.

  28. - Top - End - #28
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    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    As the explanation turns into a rant, Tommy draws back slightly as his expression grows dubious. His eyes alternately move between Arthropod's gesticulations and the objects of his ire, and Tommy periodically nods once or twice to acknowledge the other's point.

    "You, uh, feel pretty strongly about this," KC replies, trying to lighten things up. "I mean, I get what you say about the mishmash of messages down there. And, yeah, I have no idea what the 'no gods' guy is trying to do.

    "My, err, mentor told me once that you don't look at the mob - some folks always need something to complain about, especially when things are otherwise 'good,'" he adds, turning to face his teammate. "You look for the organizers. What are they saying and doing? Theirs are the motives you need to understand."

  29. - Top - End - #29
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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    The Hero of Justice: Facet and M4
    Captain Shatterstar looks at you for a moment once you're finished talking. "It was the least I could do to be here in person. And you don't need to prove yourself, young lady. Just do your best and I'm sure you'll do fine." He gives you a reassuring smile. "You aren't Nonpareil, no matter what the short-sighted might think. You don't need to define yourself by your parentage. If you want my advice... Decide what mark you want to make on the world. Once you know what you want, for a smart young woman like yourself planning to get it shouldn't be too challenging. You'll also do well to find some friends you can trust; this profession can be lonely, otherwise..." His smile briefly turns into a frown.

    Spoiler: Facet's Move
    Show

    How could I gain Influence over you?
    Make a pivotal difference in a deadly catastrophe, or do something incredible he's never seen in his long career.

    What do you want me to do?
    Contrary to what he said, demonstrate that his decision to support inviting you to this team was justified.

    What are you really planning?
    He's planning on turning the Junior Guardians into a capable team of superheroes, that won't need his help to protect the city.





    The Group at the Window: Arthropod and Kid Collier

    Ferriqueen lets out a metallic clang as Kid Collier leaves, but doesn't say anything else and quickly returns to standing perfectly still doing nothing.

    ------

    The situation outside doesn't seem to be changing much, and remains mostly confined to the two groups waving signs and yelling at each other, at least for the moment.

    Detective Lopez doesn't really offer much of a response to anything the two young heroes beside her are saying beyond the occasional grunt or shrug. At the end, she replies tersely. "This is another good situation to leave to the cops. We've got people out there already making sure it won't come to violence. Trust me, you're better off having nothing to do with mobs if you can avoid it. Super-strength or laser eyes don't help at all when you're dealing with angry civilians."



    Interior Decorating: Foreigner
    Abe doesn't show much emotion in response to your outburst. Can the sculpture even show emotion? There's been no indication his face can move at all, aside from his eyes and mouth. "That's correct. Veteran is in charge of any requests for funds not directly related to the Guardians' mission, including funds to purchase furniture. Though I don't believe he regularly chooses to do so himself." Abe turns his head, seeming to scan the room. "Is there anything else I can help you with? I believe that Captain Shatterstar will likely be calling everyone back together soon."
    Avatar by the wonderful SubLimePie. Former avatar by Andraste.

  30. - Top - End - #30
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    PaladinGuy

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    Default Re: Masks: Junior Guardians

    Quote Originally Posted by DaedalusMkV View Post
    Detective Lopez doesn't really offer much of a response to anything the two young heroes beside her are saying beyond the occasional grunt or shrug. At the end, she replies tersely. "This is another good situation to leave to the cops. We've got people out there already making sure it won't come to violence. Trust me, you're better off having nothing to do with mobs if you can avoid it. Super-strength or laser eyes don't help at all when you're dealing with angry civilians."
    "Mmm-hmm," KC agrees as he continues to watch the mob below. "I don't envy you folks that task."

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