Legion World Forums LEGION OUTPOST Bits o' Legionnaire Business Post ZH Legion: Volume 5 - What Makes Us Special (August 26, 2023)

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Myar

Apparition, Tinya Wazzo of Bgztl; intangibility
Blizzard, Brek Bannin of Tharr; cold projection
Calorie Queen, Taryn Loy of Bismoll; consume and digest all forms of matter, conversion of digested matter into super-strength
Gates, Ti'julk Mr'asz of Vyrga; opens teleportation disks
Wildfire, Drake Burroughs (energy gestalt of two beings); anti-energy being
White Witch, Mysa of Zarrox; sorcery

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Myar. A world that has developed expertise in the physical sciences, known for cutting-edge research on new applications for existing compounds. Most of the inhabitants are researchers, their families, and the support staff that provide security and the services. The world has attracted bright minds from all over the United Planets. - Encyclopedia Galactica

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"My blasts aren't doing anything!" Wildfire announced, as he watched his latest volley be absorbed harmlessly by the gelatinous blob in front of them. "I think I'll be more useful evacuating people..."

"Go Wildfire, we'll be fine!" Apparition called. Wildfire mock-saluted, and zipped away.

"At least I'm not the only one on taxi duty," Gates' acerbic voice dripped with good-natured sarcasm as he exited from a portal. He grabbed a cowering young couple, then teleported them away.

The blob lashed out with a whip-like arm as wide around as a Jovian Mastodon. People screamed as it swung forward to smash a building.

"Spell of Transference," intoned White Witch. Apparition began to glow, as the spell siphoned off her intangibility and transferred it to the blob; its arm swung harmlessly through the building.

"Amazing..." Blizzard said. Mysa dropped to her knees. "I can't hold it for long..." she breathed.

"Try to slow it down, Brek," Apparition ordered. "Taryn, if you could fence it in..."

"On it!" both Blizzard and Calorie Queen replied. Brek projected his cold powers into the blob, and as its surface iced up, it began to slow. For her part, Taryn began ripping up pieces of pavement with her super strength. "Urgh, they used too much titanium, bad flavor profile" she muttered as she quickly chewed the edges to form inter-locking puzzle parts. In minutes, she had laid four pieces of pavement around the blob in the form of a pen.

Standing back, she shrugged. "Think that will hold it?"

"Let's ask her... er, him, er, this sentient over here," Wildfire called. Brek, Tinya, Mysa and Taryn turned to see Wildfire carrying a bipedal lizard-like figure in a lab coat.

"I am Doctor Otomo*," it said breathlessly. "This was an experiment which didn't go as intended..."

"...obviously!" Gates snapped as he appeared once more, this time ushering what appeared to be a very pregnant woman and her six young children. Thankfully, they all resembled rather squat, stout, purple-skinned humans no more than three feet tall - meaning Gates did not have to strain to teleport so many at once. "When will you realize mad scientists are passe 20th century horror trope-"

"Enough, Gates," Apparition sighed. "Can you please just tell us how to stop it?"

"There's a core in it that fuses the gelatin together," Doctor Otomo continued breathlessly. "But you won't be able to get to it while it's frozen solid!"

"Point it out to me," Blizzard suggested.

Doctor Otomo looked helplessly at the opaque blob.

"Maybe Mysa can help," Taryn suggested. "Do you have a spell that can..."

"Already done," Mysa replied, a little more curtly than she intended. This scientist was wasting her time - she needed to check on those magical items that had been stolen! Raising her hands, she cast a location smell that would highlight anything that stood out against the composition of the blob. A glowing purple sphere appeared in the blob's middle; it shimmered and coalesced into a spiky shape not unlike a rolled up porcupine.

"That's it!" Doctor Otomo clutched its arms to its chest.

"One moment..." Blizzard closed his eyes. "This takes some concentration..." As Apparition whispered words of encouragement, Brek adjusted the flow of heat and cold so that the area around the core turned to room temperature. "Okay, it's un-frozen," he panted. How ironic that his exertion would make him sweat, but sweating he was... at least Kinetix seemed to like his scent... She always said he smelled particularly sexy after a challenging workout at the gym...

"My turn," Apparition launched herself at the blob. She could have phased through it with no problems, but she would have had a tough time dislodging anything frozen solid. In moments, she phased through the blob, grabbed the core, and flew out the other side with the core in tow.

Landing in front of Doctor Otomo, she handed it the core. "Now, do we need to turn it off?"

"We do!" Doctor Otomo screeched. "It will form a new one from ambient matter in the air!" As the Doctor uttered the last word, the core began to accumulate dust particles around it.

"Oh, I'll handle it." And without another word, Calorie Queen chomped down on the core. She tossed the last piece in her mouth, and dabbed her lips with a napkin. Seeing her stunned teammate's faces, she shrugged. "No reason to be a slob, you know."

Doctor Otomo sat down. "Five years of research..."

"How selfish! Maybe spare a thought for the damage you caused?" Gates raged as he appeared.

Apparition sighed. "While I agree, Gates, you don't have to be so harsh..."

"Well, I guess now it's clean-up time," Blizzard hastily changed the subject. "Like, all the slush that will form when I thaw out that blob..."

"I trust you can handle this on your own," Mysa said. "I have some urgent business to attend to, unfortunately."

Wildfire was already blasting at the leftover blob to disintegrate it; luckily, without the core to keep reforming it, the dust particles simply disintegrated. Calorie Queen had fashioned a gigantic makeshift shovel and was spooning up bits of debris, while Blizzard was concentrating on slowly defrosting the frozen parts. Gates had teleported away and back again, this time with clean-up crews.

"Mysa, a word?" Tinya approached Mysa. "You seem off today, is something wrong?"

Mysa hesitated. Apparition had once offered her a listening ear when they had fought the Elementals on JS-1967, stopping them from attacking a dormant Mordru**... and the two had bonded over their accursed fathers. Of course, Mordru's crimes had been considerably more severe than Apparition's thieving, sentient-trafficking father... but both women had been deprived of a father's love. This made Tinya one of the Legionnaires that came closest to a friend for Mysa...

... and for that matter, she had to remind herself that some burdens could be shared.

"I apologize, Tinya. Reep came to me today..." As Mysa explained the situation, Tinya clasped her hand. "I understand, Mysa. If you want, I can come with you..." she gestured towards their teammates, who were almost done; Wildfire was teasing Blizzard for working slowly, while Gates and Calorie Queen had begun discussing ways to safeguard scientific research, and Doctor Otomo was still sitting in a stupor of disbelief. "I don't think they need us here anymore."

Mysa smiled. "I accept your kind offer." Tinya excused her teammates, leaving Wildfire in charge, and the two Legionnaires stepped through a Threshold to Earth.

***************

IB's notes:

1) Doctor Otomo is a reference to Katsuhiro Otomo, who wrote the manga Akira... spoilers, the manga features a blob thingie

2) Legionnaires 74

okay, time for a pause. I've been really motivated lately... I've outlined a few of these plots and have an idea of where to go. Don't worry, I won't introduce/move forward any new ones yet - instead will focus on wrapping up:

1) The search for Jacques

2) The vote on Cargg

3) The search for Cosmic Boy (and Sandy Anderson)

The magical thievery will run in the background, but will fade into the background for now

Whoops! I was writing while you were commenting, GL! thanks for the read & review (hope the last new post won't make it too tough to catch up lol)

And yes, I've sat down and looked at all the little bits and bobs I've thrown in through the Volumes - Jacques was referenced way back in Volume 1, while the pilfering is a Volume 4 thing It was about time to move them forward!

Thank you, glad Condo & Lyle rocked!

Yeah, Sandy... ah, so many little things, now time to wrap em up Now I have to think about how Sandy will react when she learns Dirk is using her code name lol

Well, crap. I thought I was caught up!

If there's anything that's classic Gates, its him complaining about being a taxi!

Brek needs to learn how to focus!

I love Calorie Queen!

Tinya and Mysa bonding is unusual, but a nice touch. I like it a lot.

By the way, how old are the Legionnaires at this point in your story?

Heh! This is it for a bit, I need to get to the gym

Yeah, Brek still has a bit of wide-eyed youngster about him? he?s frankly still a bit in shock at being a Legionnaire AND at dating Zoe lol . Don?t worry, he has the chops to be present when he?s really needed

Taryn is a hoot, I really enjoy writing her. She?s just so matter of fact about her power

Can?t claim all the credit re Tinya and Mysa, Legionnaires 74 started it

And what would a story be without Gates complaining,?lol

It?s a really good question re ages. I just have them at basically early /mid 20s, except for Mysa of course and M?Onel. But I?ve just taken the Liberty of aging them a bit so that sex and stuff isn?t so weird

Hi IB,

some good post here.

Brainy's lab was done really well and it was fun seeing all of them kind of finishing each others sentences/thoughts. Even Rond joined in on it!
loved Brainy's insight to his teammates and that he's actively trying to be better with his responses and not so dismissive like the old days.
Amp makes a good point...is this a way for Dirk to become Sun Boy?

If Rond says don't lose the homing devices one more time, i'm gonna get seriously nervous for this team.
The eye rolls about Dirk's abs was super funny. I never thought of Reboot Dirk as vain. so its interesting to see. (Yes, i know we saw him like three times. but still. lol)
is Dirk flirting with Amp or just being a flirt in general?
Rokk stubborn? never. lol
it was good that the newbies asked why they were there.
bad puns for sure. I hope Dirk doesn't flame out during this mission.

Love seeing Mysa. Theena is right she is a woman on a mission, a mission to keep Mordru locked away.
I like that Cham is thinking outside the box so to speak. It would make sense that someone might be trying to wake him up or take his place...
I'm with Mysa i hate doing a task or about to do something and have something else interrupt me.
hahah...and now Cham's got another mystery he can't put down.

You write really good comedy on these missions.
The blob mission reminded me of the one the team faced in Legion Lost vol 1.
Loved Gates quipps.
possibly my favorite one.

Liked that they had to work at it a little bit and as a team. But did Mysa's spell actually end? i may have misread but it seems like it didn't and then Calorie Queen "boxed" it and Brek froze it. was it like a split second kind of thing?
Man Mysa really is hyper focused. That could be good and bad...


This whole exchange has me rolling.
The Mysa/Tinya friendship is a nice one that i hope we see more of.

I can't wait for more!

Hiya Omni thanks for the read and review! I'm on a streak now, full of inspiration with the plotlines jumbling in my head, so more may come quite soon...

Brainy's intelligence extends to the emotional/social and I like having this team be... a team of friends, people who genuinely like each other. that's where all the playfulness comes from

re Dirk being a flirt, it's a new thing I did - though there were echoes of this when Dirk flirted with Tinya some time back. It's mostly harmless, him just being naturally flirty and playful - a trait he gets from his father.

I haven't decided yet what to do with the code names, or for that matter with Sandy

Cham is exploring all the leads. but whether Mordru is the right lead, we will see...

Yeah, Mysa saw all the suffering from Mordru, so she's really focused indeed...

and glad you liked the comedy! Gates' personality and Calorie Queen's powers are great sources of that, and I figured a lighter, easier mission would perk things up

And Tinya's a compassionate one, don't worry, when she makes a friend she sticks around

thanks again ! more to come very soon...

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Earth

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Matahari van Dam sipped her Venegarian multi-Berry wine as she relaxed in her luxurious penthouse apartment. Another long day, poring through reports at Earthgov, deciding which ones to share with the United Planets Intelligence Agency, and which ones to keep for Earth's own use... and more than that, deciding which ones bore further investigating. She had brought the Carggite kidnappings to the attention of Winema Wazzo*, and more recently she had arranged to spread word on Rimbor that Luonel Burdo, Winema's ex-husband, was on-planet. As expected, Winema's daughter Apparition herself had led a team to bring her father in - good optics for the Legion, and it helped keep Winema out of focus.

Matahari smiled as she brushed her curly black hair, and moisturized her dark skin. Growing up, she had been teased for her rather outlandish name. Her parents had loved spy movies. Well, now she was the Earthgov Spymaster... a lucrative job with great power. Yes, she had shown them.

Stifling a yawn, she turned off the lights and went to bed. Tomorrow was a new day - and new knowledge would come.

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"Wake up."

Matahari bolted upright, instinctively reaching for her palms to activate the electric shock-inducing plates embedded therein. Who dared attack her...

She felt someone grab her wrist. "Don't even try. Your electricity can't hurt us."

Us. More than one. The voice was disguised, somehow... she could barely tell if it was male, female, or humanoid.

"What do you want?" she asked, steel in her voice.

"Where is Jacques Foccart?"

She wanted to laugh. All this for the whereabouts of a spy?

"He's been compromised," she heard herself say. Wait, this wasn't right. She shouldn't.... but she kept talking, anyway. "Exactly 28 days ago, we intercepted messages that showed he was helping foment dissent on Corvan IV. We had no authorized missions there. When we moved to invite him for questioning, he was gone from his quarters. All the doses of the serum keeping him alive were missing, as well. We do not know who has his leash now; it is unlikely that anyone on Corvan IV has the resources to compromise an Earthgov spy."

"Any guesses?"

"Corvan IV is a mainly agricultural and relatively impoverished world. The Affiliated Planets would receive no strategic value in winning it over. The Khunds don't deal in subterfuge. The ones with the most motive are Corvan IV natves themselves, but they don't have the means..."

"Most likely suspect?"

"Ragulti Agonal. Industrialist who de facto controls much of the Eastern continent. Curries favor from government officials, army and police officers alike with his pleasure palace casinos."

"Good. Now... sleep, and you won't remember a thing."

Matahari felt herself inexplicably lie down and close her eyes.

When she woke up in the morning, all she recalled was a dreamless sleep.


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IB's notes:

1) In Legion World - Winema had a call with the Cargg leadership over missing people, these were the same Carggites kidnapped by Ra's al Ghul to experiment on.

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Earth

Chameleon, Reep Daggle of Durla; shapeshifting
Chemical Kid, Condo Arlik of Phlon; controls chemical reactions
Invisible Kid, Lyle Norg of Earth (Australia and Israel); invisibility
Spark, Ayla Ranzz of Winath; electric manipulation

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Spark couldn't stop from smiling. "That was just like those James Bond movies from the 20th century!"

Chameleon smiled affectionately at her. "Welcome to the Espionage Squad, Ayla."

"This isn't exactly the Espionage Squad." Invisible Kid was laser-focused. "We skirted the Legion Constitution, though we very much stayed in it..."

"After all, it is in the UP's best interests to find a former spy who now seems under control of an enemy actor..." Chemical Kid pointed out. Though he sounded serious, inwardly his heart was leaping. Like Ayla said, it had been just like a holo... visiting Lyle's memorial, retrieving the goblet, finding hidden inside an address and name written on paper of all things... doing some research, then using a cloaking device from Gear to Threshold into Matahari's apartment; having Spark harmlessly absorb the electric charges from her palms; earlier, an invisible Lyle had spiked her wine with truth serum; and then Chameleon had held her bound while Condo himself had accelerated the effect of the truth serum on her so she would answer everything asked of her and not remember a thing.

"indeed..." Lyle continued. Condo squeezed his hand; Lyle was in so much guilt over Jacques' fate. "Thanks for all your help so far."

"What do you mean, so far?" Ayla ruffled Lyle's hair. "We're going with you."

"All the way to Corvan IV?" Lyle rose an eyebrow.

"Try and stop us," Condo patted the small of Lyle's back.

"We'll see this through, buddy," Reep added.

"I can't ask you to... I... how will we all sneak in?" Lyle stammered.

"Ayla and I can be back-up. You know, the emergency muscle," Condo offered.

"And we both come from agricultural worlds... that gives us some local knowledge, in a way," Ayla winked.

Lyle closed his eyes.... then a slow smile spread on his face. "You are all amazing. Thank you."

"You tell me that every night," Condo whispered in Lyle's ear. "Still nice hearing it, though."

"Then... we leave tomorrow at 0900," Lyle smiled. "Cham, you'll help Ayla pack...?"

"Oh yes, we'll play spy tonight," Cham teased as he wrapped his elongated limbs around Ayla. "You know, choose what spy gear to pack, and what clothes to wear to blend in..."

"Can we at least make it 1000 though?" Ayla mock-pouted. "At least let me enjoy my morning coffee first!"

Condo chuckled, and Lyle shook his head. "Fine, fine, 1000 it is..."

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Cargg

Rebound, Chuck Taine of Earth (Canada and Uzbekistan); inflates into a durable bouncing form
Triad, Luornu Durgo of Cargg; triplication

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Triad Neutral watched, fighting back boredom, as Tatlisa Sanii - the leader of the Divided Trinity movement - flipped through holo after holo of statistics. They were preparing for the presentation she was due to give at the Carggite Tribunal. Made of representatives from every district on Cargg, the Tribunal had the power to outlaw the infamous institutions... and they were hoping Tatlisa's speech would sway them.

This is why she had decided to go in alone; Purple was outside giving input on flyer design, while Orange was helping organize mailouts to voters. Chuck, bless him, had seen a chance to use his engineering skills by repairing the coffee synthesizer.

That left Neutral, to sit through this mind-numbing presentation. Triad knew that figures talked, but... she couldn't imagine the typical Carggite being able to stay awake through all these facts and figures.

Tatlisa seemed to think the Tribunal members were different, though. "And then, we combine the statistics showing how many kidnapped Carggites had differences, with the number of Carggites leaving for greener pastures offworld... and show the distribution of degree of differences... we've assigned a number from 1 to 3 to denote the degree... though maybe we should go up to 9, but that seems too fine..."

"Hm..." Neutral tentatively began. "Can you remind me who the audience of these presentations is?"

Tatlisa blinked. "Oh... the Tribunal, you mean?"

"Is it just them, though?"

Tatlisa blinked again, as if struggling to accept this new input from Neutral and seeing where it fit into her storyline of facts. "Oh, well it will be broadcast throughout all of Cargg."

"Shouldn't we then... just a suggestion, but..." Triad sighed. "Look, as part of my work with Brande Industries and with the Legion, I often had to give presentations. And I found that leading with personal stories helped capture the imagination and trigger emotions."

Tatlisa tiled her head. "But the Tribunal is a fact-based body..."

Neutral leaned forward. "Personal stories, anecdotes, these are facts too." She stood up. "We should use them. Several supporters and members of the Divided Trinity have given consent to be identified... including with their differences. Use me. Use Lena Garbo, the actress. Zenar Mondo, the musician. Meilan Zintho, the athlete. Even Kamel Harrin, the former minister."

"But I only have thirty minutes..."

"Then we'll prioritize our facts. But we also need to tug at heartstrings," Neutral pressed. "I helped RJ Brande do this a lot in the UP Assembly. The voters and the Tribunal members are people too... And they need to understand that these differences could be within everyone, even those close to them... and a statistic showing that as many as 33% of Carggites suppress 3rd-degree differences doesn't have quite the same impact as hearing that a former Teacher of the Year awardee had been suppressing his for thirty years, and nobody had ever guessed..."

"I...." Tatlisa hung her head. "I mean, you're right, I just don't know how to fit it all in..."

Neutral stood up and extended her head. "Let's go through the numbers together. We have 39 charts here... let's prioritize..."

As they went through the slides, Neutral felt the creative process engulf her. "You know... while I often say too many cooks spoil the broth, I think we should test this with my sisters. If we all three can agree on something, we know it's good."

Tatlisa smiled, and Neutral saw why Tatlisa was the Divided Trinity leader - it was so sincere, it made you want to trust her. "I'll say, I'm actually more nervous of presenting in front of all three of you than I am of the Tribunal..."

Neutral laughed. "We do have diverse tastes... and high standards..."

Hi IB, this is gonna be some word vomit - I was jotting down notes while I was reading:

- I like the focus on the different aspects of Lu and I'm looking forward to her being back on Cargg. Triad is definitely one of the Legionnaires that the reboot did a much better job with right from the start. I don't feel like classic Lu ever really came into her own as a character ironically until she left the Legion and writers began to touch on her trauma and how it affected her, but reboot Lu always felt like an indispensable part of the team and one of the most interesting team members in her own right.

- thanks for linking to Tatlisa's previous appearance; I kinda love that these fics have been going on for long enough that we can do deep cuts like this, it really helps give each series its own distinct flavour when you have your own continuity to draw from that isn't just a reinterpretation of something that happened in the comics

- the discussion between Triad's three selves was really well done, and I love that Chuck recognised they were letting him see something intimate and that he knew to stay in his lane until it was appropriate for him to offer support. Maybe it's because I have become obsessed with the Doom Patrol show and Crazy Jane's whole deal recently but I never really considered how challenging it must be to have a relationship with someone who exhibits three distinct personalities (or I guess four if you count combined Triad!), you showed that well here!

- I like the comparison of Tel & Jed wearing clothes that show off their physiques with Lyle & Condo being more conservative and their contrasting stories about how they met, it's nice seeing three dimensional queer characters

- I laughed out loud at the idea of Stone Boy being flummoxed by a bed - "so am I supposed to just...wrap these sheet things around me like a coccoon? And WHY DOES ANYONE NEED SO MANY HEAD CUSHIONS??"

- the fight with Lyle and Condo was fun, and I am interested to see what happens with Jacques now!

- I had forgotten about that guy that came looking for girl Inferno! I liked that Amp and boy Inferno were all hyped up about time travel whereas the novelty of it is lost on the more experienced Legionnaires

- it makes sense that Lyle would come to Cham for help, I like the way they relate to one another as their strengths are more about subterfuge and investigation than a lot of the other Legionnaires

- Calorie Queen critiquing the pavement's taste and Wildfire stumbling over pronouns was cute, as is a spymaster named Matahari

- Ayla and Condo being all gleeful about playing spy was fun, you make really good use of Condo's powers! It is something I struggle with a bit with Chemical Kid tbh so good job!

- the scene with Triad and Tatlisa was well done, and succintly shows the qualities that make Lu so good at what she does outside of just being able to do three times the work

You have got some great plot balls in the air with Jacques, Cargg and the time travellers, and I am looking forward to seeing what happens with all three stories!

Hey Raz, thanks - Word vomit is good, I do that too when I'm reading and commenting easiest to just write the thoughts down as they come

Totally agree re Reboot Lu - it was a combination of her 3 personalities (credits to the SW6 version for starting that), and her integral role to the Reboot team from the start (having her start as Brande's assistant was gold)

yeah, I'm really happy with being able to reference internal continuity. I'm also glad I started that recap thread - it's probably most helpful for me, so i can easily look up what I've established before lol!

Thanks for the high praise - I figure, Lu loves Chuck as he is because he understands and appreciates her, and she appreciates him back.

And yeah, as I always say, the one thing gay men have in common - they like other men. other than that, they cover all sorts of types. Same for lesbians, bisexuals, etc. etc. And sometimes having two queer couples together is the best way to show the differences vs. the similarities

Hee hee! I really love bits that show the variety of cultures and practices on diff. worlds. I can just imagine how Lydda for example, must have been awed at standing under sunlight for the first time.

I need to think about what to do with that guy pryokinetic... lol I originally created him just as a way too get Cos pointed at Sandy Inferno....

Cham and Lyle were fast friends in the Reboot, and I like how that friendship stood the test of time Lyle was there for Cham when Cham's dad died too.

Glad you liked the funny bits - Matahari was an inspiration coming from living in Amsterdam lol, but I just had to make it a conscious choice by her parents... too contrived otherwise!

Thanks, glad you like how I use Condo, frankly I struggle with his powers too - they're so broad! (I struggle with Mysa's as well, though I try to take pages from the Levitz playbook there). Condo's though, are just so wide open. I really need to think about how to realistically limit them. Maybe make them strain him a lot, or he can only concentrate on one reaction at a time... ah well, in a Legion that includes Mysa, Zoe, Candi with Jan's powers, Jazmin... maybe I shouldn't worry too much lol

and yeah, I like that many of the Legionnaires have skills and talents beyond their immediate powers. Lu, Cham, Lyle, Vi and her martial arts, Chuck as an engineer, are all good examples. And these contribute just as much to the Legion

thanks! I'm looking forward to writing it all out too, these three balls are rattling in my head lol!

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Cargg

Rebound, Chuck Taine of Earth (Canada and Uzbekistan); inflates into a durable bouncing form
Triad, Luornu Durgo of Cargg; triplication

*************************************************************

A combined Triad walked quickly into the halls of the Cargg Tribunal, steeling herself for the wide range of reactions around her. Some Carggites booed and hissed; some didn't seem to know how to react; others looked at her in curiosity, some nodded politely, and some were elated.

Truth to tell, she just wanted to be treated like how most people on Legion World treated her - as an equal worthy of basic respect.

Rebound walked beside her, his arm outstretched, her arm in his. Chuck knew how important this was, with everyone watching them, and he played his part well. Though he was Triad's escort, he was first and foremost here as a Legionnaire, lending support to the ideals of diversity and acceptance.

They followed Triuna Trigo, one of Tatlisa's lieutenants. Triuna herself walked briskly, though a bit too formally - though only Tatlisa would directly address the assembly, Triuna was in charge of everything behind the scenes. Tatlisa herself came next, the picture of tranquility; though anyone who knew her really well knew, by the way she clutched her OmniCom, that she was mentally rehearsing her presentation. Three other senior Divided Trinity members trailed them... and dressed plainly, a couple of bodyguards.

How Luornu wished they weren't needed, but fear and ignorance often made people do stupid things.

The group filed into the small alcove allocated for them, to the right of the central stage. The area around the stage was a bustle, as all those who wished to address the Tribunal prepared. Some of those were Tribunal members, hoping to sway their fellows to their side of nothing. The rest of the Tribunal members were busy, some checking reports on survey results of their constituencies, others discussing with stafff. Everyone knew the potential impact of today's vote.

How Triad wished she could triplicate now, to help make sense of all this. But two things stopped her: the fear that Orange and Purple would not be able to control their reactions; and the strict rules within the Tribunal. To save space and to put everyone on an even playing field, triplication was forbidden. And for those Carggites whose selves were all identical, it didn't matter, anyway.

Instead, she sat and closed her eyes. Chuck squeezed her hand once. "I'm here, I'm just here." She smiled at him and squeezed back.

Triple horns sounded, and everyone scurried to their seats. Cargg's Chief Minister marched in. Triad could barely concentrate on his flowery, middle-of-the-road speech; as expected, he outlined the situation, gave facts, but took a middle ground, not giving a hint as to which side he took. Carggites were so used to conformity. Very few stirred the pot; most of the conflict was within, keeping their selves in order.

A series of reports came in from Cargg's Executive branch. The Minister of the Exterior listed the worlds that supported Cargg's status quo; it was only a fourth as long as the list of worlds that had challenged and implored Cargg to change. The Minister of Health reported on the recovery of the kidnapped Carggites - the number discharged, the number still institutionalized, the therapies that worked, and the breakdown of those who displayed differences - using the 1-to-3 ranking system. The Minister of Labor gave figures on Carggites who were off-world, on which planets, and also broken down by the differences ranking.

There were very few questions from the Tribunal members; perhaps one or two, to clarify a chart or a figure. But they were all facts.

Yet it was the interpretation of these facts which was in debate, and that was evident once the debates started.

The first speaker was one of the oldest Tribunal members, a grave-looking woman who proudly wore a dress in the color of Cargg's flag. She marched impassively, almost superciliously onto the stage, lowered her head, and took in the room. Though she was the one speaking, it almost seemed like she was judging the audience, not they judging her. She began by acknowledging the figures. Yes, many of those off-world displayed differences - but these were the ones who had fled Cargg to avoid being institutionalized. Naturally, the offworlders were exposed to these, and thought that was normal behavior! Triad's own behavior, as shown in many holos, made sentients think these differences were normal! But they were not! Cargg had lives for centuries like this, with all triplicates acting alike. Why would they need to change, just because some interlopers from off-world thought they knew what was best?

She turned to leave, and Triad had to steel herself - she could feel Purple struggling to burst out and give a piece of her mind. Not here! She thought through gritted teeth. Not here, not now.

The speaker went back to here seat. There was no applause, and no boos, either. The rules inside the Tribunal chamber were strict. In fact, the bodyguards with them were not needed inside - though Triuna at least took comfort that they were here.

The second speaker was not the youngest, but the Tribunal member who had lived longest off-world - bouncing between worlds as varied as Earth, Xanthu, Aleph, Lallor, Naltor, and even stints on Vyrga and Korbal. He was a psychiatrist and anthropologist, a leading mind in the fields. He argued that his studies of off-worlders showed him that everyone encountered mixed emotions; but other species were disadvantaged with their inability to articulate their differences so easily. Carggites who could were blessed; they could see a situation from three different views and integrate to experience the nuances. He presented evidence of social experiments that showed that Carggites with differences often made better decisions in simulated dangerous experiments, simply because they could discuss and agree on the best outcome. Yes, they were slower - but unless they needed to act within seconds, they tended to survive better.

As before, there was no applause.

Rebound sat in silence, though he kept smiling reassuringly at Triad. He had heard much of this before, while watching Tatlisa practice, or participating in the content-writing meetings. None of this was new to him, and he knew his input as an off-worlder - especially one from the great melting pot that was Earth - had been valuable. Now, he was just concerned about the strain on Triad.

More speeches came, and most were highly for or against the institutions as they currently were. There were only three that called for calm and unity, reminding everyone that they should support the vote no matter what. Some speeches were fiery and thunderous, but most were calm. None drew a visible reaction from the crowd, as was custom.

Tatlisa's turn came. She ascended the stage, calm. Before she spoke, Triad watched her face carefully, and saw it - Tatlisa's aggressive self was struggling to come out, just like Purple would. Tatlisa tamped her down; the way she clenched her jaw showed that. Then she breathed in, calming herself; and beamed a smile on the crowd.

"How many of you know someone who was institutionalized?" she asked.

Triad thought it might be her imagination, but the room seemed still. It wasn't typical to address the crowd like this directly, but Triad had counseled that it would draw everyone's attention. All three of her had agreed, and Orange had been the one to argue for it most.

Chuck leaned back in his seat, breathless. Triuna clutched her hands under her chin.

"We used to think that institutions made their patients healthy," Tatlisa continued. "That they brought out the best in them. But now we know we were wrong. Many of those who went to these institutions actually learned to adopt the worst of their behaviors."

Tatlisa switched to a holo of the famous celebrity Carggite actress Lena Garbo. Dressed in the famous gown that she wore in her role on her leading romantic drama, Third Time's the Charm, Lena told of how she had to rely on depressants after being discharged. A tear fell as she talked about turning to acting because she was so numb in real life, afraid to feel anything lest it would trigger her differences in public.

Tatlisa continued. "Families who thought they were doing what is right, saw loved ones suffer." The next video showed Mr. and Mrs. Zilgo, who had committed their only child, Zindo. Before being committed, Zindo had been a top student, star athlete, student leader. The only flaw? Each self had preferred different flavors of pie... After being released, Zindo had been so damaged that he had insomnia, which he tried to address through drinking. He almost died of liver failure, only pulling through after months in the hospital... The Zilgos ended in tears. "We should have accepted him as he was... he was healthier and happier then!"

"And some of those with the biggest differences have also become the most successful," Tatlisa continued. The next segments showed Ivana Trino, the tycoon who had built an empire on Mars, importing and distributing wines and alcohols from off-world. One of her selves was CEO, another Chief Operating Officer, the third Chief Finance Officer, taking the role best suited to their strengths. Leelo Phino, the pioneer who explored and catalogued much of the rugged world of Plevitz, talked about how his selves split their role, one focused on cataloguing the new species they discovered; another focused on running the camp; and the third on publicizing their exploits.

Triad tensed as Phino's segment finished. Because next was her...

Chuck leaned towards her, and uttered his first words since this all began. "You look beautiful. You always do."

Triad leaned on him in gratitude, as the segment opened with her on Legion World. "I know I have probably the strongest differences among any Carggite... but these only helped my career. Working with RJ Brande, I ran his office... one of me managed his records and schedule; another prepared him for meetings, reviewed proposals and made presentations; and the third managed the staff and visitors. But we were nimble enough to switch jobs as needed... and then I joined the Legion."

The holo cut to highlights of her Legion career - leading the evacuation and relief efforts on Murr during the Great Typhoon; her physical takedown of Ra's al Ghul* which highlighted the slightly different take each self had on tri-jitsu; brokering peace between warring factions on Pasnic, where Purple played bad cop, Orange was good cop and Neutral coordinated; infiltrating the hideout of some Sklarian bandits. Each holo had been chosen to show not only Triad's differences, but also that each had a different approach and skillset.

Triad thought that if she had been triplicated, Purple would have been whooping while Orange would have shrunk away in embarrassment.

Tatlisa turned to face the audience. "We Carggites have always believed that we had a major evolutionary advantage. That our ability to triplicate let us accomplish three times as much. But these examples show that we've come past the days when we were hunters and gatherers, doing manual work that required one set of skills, where each self could do identical things. In today's complex world, differences and diversity not only can be an advantage, they often are! We don't face simple situations anymore, not ones where the only answer is to live and to die... but where we have to experiment so we can thrive. And today we vote... we vote on our future... and will you join us then, in voting for a bright and happy future for all of us - and not only some?"

The words hung in the air as Tatlisa swept her gaze around the audience. Then she left.

Triuna almost leaped out of her seat, catching herself in time.

Luornu gripped Chuck's hand in hers as she watched Tatlisa sit down. Whatever happened, she could take comfort in the fact that they had done their best.

********************

IB's notes:

1) Legion 8

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Cargg

Rebound, Chuck Taine of Earth (Canada and Uzbekistan); inflates into a durable bouncing form
Triad, Luornu Durgo of Cargg; triplication

*************************************************************

"So, how many individual decisions does this vote include again?" Rebound tried to keep his voice calm and neutral. He found it funny that Carggite law allowed for the Tribunal to vote on each article within a proposal separately.

"Four," Triad Orange explained. "1st; to abolish the institutions completely; 2nd; to keep them but only allow Carggites to be sent with express consent - i.e. only those 14 and above can be sent there; 3rd; to stop all current therapy methods and replace them with non-invasive, non-painful ones; and 4th; to enact an anti-discrimination law against Carggites with differences."

"And yes," Purple rolled her eyes. "There are four articles, not only three! I really hate that our culture is so obsessed with the number three!"

Neutral just ignored her "sister". "The 1st and 2nd article are mutually exclusive, someone voting for one needs to vote against the other..."

Chuck pursed his lips. "And for the 3rd... do they already know what therapy methods...?"

"No..." Triuna shook her head. "So if the 3rd article passes, a commission will need to be formed, to research and recommend. That will lead to another sitting..."

Tatlisa quickly shushed them. "The results are being announced!"

Everyone watched with bated breath as it was announced... "The First Article... 39% for, 61% against."

"No!" Purple kicked the chair in front of her.

"Second article... 78% for, 12% against!"

Triuna shrieked. "That's better than I expected!"

"Third article... 98% for, 2% abstained."

Orange covered her mouth. "Oh! Oh! Those videos of the shock therapy must have convinced everyone it was barbaric! And this was also one of the things all those other UP Worlds kept commenting on!"

"Fourth article... 41% for, 45% against, 4% abstained."

Tatlisa sank to her chair. "Well, that was a long shot... Carggites can still be refused service or employment because of their differences. I knew it would be seen as a violation of freedom to choose, for the non-different ones..."

"Hey, chin up. We still won two out of four," Neutral noted. "This is already a lot of progress... Cargg has changed so much from when I was in one of those sprocking institutions."

"We can still be better," Purple was fuming.

"Lu, I know it's not a resounding victory but... Earth itself, it took more than a century before marriage was extended globally to all sexualities," Chuck offered. "Cargg will get there, in time."

"And we won't ever have to go back to those institution, anyway," Orange said quietly. "And now, at least nobody will be forced to go..."

"Unless they're brainwashed by this cult mentality!" Purple snapped. She grabbed a Silverale from the refreshment table and began chugging it. "I want to hit something!"

"Do it in the gym," Neutral sighed. "I know it's not what we hoped for, but it's already a big step forward."

"Indeed," Tatlisa rose. "One we should celebrate. I trust you will stay with us for our party?"

Neutral, Orange and Chuck looked at each other, then at Purple. Purple was already guzzling a second Silverale. Chuck nodded, and Neutral smiled as she turned to Tatlisa. "Try and stop us from being there."

"I have just the perfect dress for this occasion," Orange smiled as she gathered her things.

"Then it's settled," Tatlisa smiled. "Triuna, round everyone up and tell them to be here at 20.00! It will be a night to remember!"

As they exited the door to go and get changed, Neutral affectionately rubbed Chuck's belly. "Thank you, Chuck. For being here."

Chuck smiled back. "There's nowhere else I would rather be, Lu, than here with you. All three of you."

Neutral looked at her sisters. "I want to be whole when I do this." She reintegrated herself, then leaned towards Chuck. "Come here, big fella."

All three of her savored the big kiss that came next.
********

IB's notes:

1) Credits to Gaseous Lad for helping me figure out the right balance of the results: progress forward, though not the complete change of the status quo hoped for. I felt it would be more realistic this way.

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Corvan IV

Chameleon, Reep Daggle of Durla; shapeshifting
Chemical Kid, Condo Arlik of Phlon; controls chemical reactions
Invisible Kid, Lyle Norg of Earth (Australia and Israel); invisibility
Spark, Ayla Ranzz of Winath; electric manipulation

*************************************************************

The mainly-agricultural world of Corvan IV was once the shining jewel in the United Planets' food supply crown. However, the destruction of the Stargate Network following the Blight incursion deprived Corvan IV of most of its markets, leaving it with an overabundance of produce, and nobody to sell it to. The relatively lean population could not consume it all; and they also lost access to luxuries such as holos, and necessities such as fuel for machinery and heating.

Corvan IV languished, until a group of militants threatened the United Planets Assembly delegates. The Legion, freshly returned from the Second Galaxy, stopped them; and after Winema Wazzo took over the presidency, she used the Legion's new Threshold technology to ensure Corvan IV received aid.

Although, with the United Planets' resources stretched across multiple worlds needing aid, and with many of Corvan IV's former markets having found or developed alternate sources of food, it will be some time before Corvan IV can recover to what it once was.

-- The Galactic Almanac

*************************************************************

Spark raised her arms behind her head, as she relaxed next to the campfire. Ahhh, what a lovely mission - being on standby while Chameleon and Invisible Kid did most of the heavy spying work. Their earlier vacation on Earth* had been too short; though they were still on Legion business, it was a great chance to just kick back and wait. After all, who said waiting had to be boring?

"You all comfy there?" Spark asked Chemical Kid. He was sitting on the other side of the campfire, stirring the stew that was cooking on it.

"Mmm, yeah, Phlon was a pretty rustic world..." Condo replied, a bit distractedly. "Part of why I left."

Ayla chuckled. "Truth to tell, besides my old friends on Winath, I don't regret leaving it one bit." She made a show of thinking. "Okay, I miss my parents too..."

Condo laughed. "I wonder how yours are. Mine, they keep asking me to come and visit... Lyle loves it though. His parents barely had any time for him, when they were still alive..."

"Oh, I'm sorry," Ayla said. "Come to think of it, Lyle's a cheery and funny guy, but he rarely volunteers information about himself..."

"He is pretty private... Though isn't Cham kinda like that too?" Condo pointed out. "That is, he's a great listener, but he seems to like listening more than talking about himself."

Ayla took a swig of her freshly-squeezed pluberry juice. "Yeah, I think that;s why they get along so well. Elvabirds of a feather, and all that..."

"Yeah... and I know what you mean about the privacy. I asked Lyle often when he would introduce me to his teammates..."

"I'll say, we were all surprised when you turned up. Though Zoe told me Lyle was acting really obvious once found you in those tubes on Legion World..."**

Condo blushed. "Yeah, I heard Zoe and Kent really gave Lyle a hard time for trying to shield me from the Monitor's blast..."

"If it makes you feel better, it was both stupid and romantic," Ayla laughed. Then she sat up. "So, how's that stew coming along?"

Condo scooped a bit of it onto his bowl. "Oh, wow... you really ate like this all the time on Winath?"

"Healthy but delicious,"" Ayla laughed. "Perfect preparation for a hard day's work in the fields... or for beating up the bad guys.""

***********************************************

IB's notes:

1) Off-screen, Chameleon and Spark, and XS and Magno, joined Blizzard, Kinetix, Matter-Eater Lad and Violet on the last leg of their Southeast Asian tour.

2) Chemical Kid was one of the captives held by the Monitor that had captured Legion World.

Really good attention to the details of Cargg - no replicating for space saving and equal access.

I like how you paraphrase the speech versus writing the full speech itself for the unimportant stuff; really nice approach.

I'm sure Lena's a very distant relative of Greta. But her story was moving. The Zilgo story really hit close to home. And I really liked how you added the examples of Carggites who had used their capabilities to their advantage.

And the final message of needing to embrace differences is more advantageous for success. Just great.

The presentation of the results - very realistic. People shocked by torturous practices - but not quite enough to change everything. I really enjoyed this Carggite story; it will be interesting to see some of the ramifications of the decision.

thanks GL the Cargg stuff was just me thinking, ok, how would a world of triplicators design their political process and space...

and thanks, I took a page from Harbinger's book -- she's really good at writing in a succinct way, still capturing the emotion and gravity of a situation while not getting bogged down in dialogue. And I figured, if I tried to write tons of speeches myself I would never finish lol... and it would be torture for everyone to have to read through as well

Glad you liked the stories of Lena, Zilgo, etc.! Glad Triad suggested 'em eh

Yeah, the final message was from Lu's wise Granny Murlu in fact

and kudos to you for the feedback on having just the right balance of results - a move forward, though a tempered one in fact, I'm gonna go back and add some credits in right now as a shout out to you! (look for the notes on the bottom of the post)

Hi IB,

i'll be posting as i read. So this might be a little all over the place. But I'm looking forward to what's in store for me!

Ok, that had to have been Lyle and Sensor, maybe Mentalla working over Matahari van Dam. ( love the name btw. head spymaster who could be an action star) but i doubt her training will keep her unaware of this for long...
Ragulti Agonal, Industrialist - hmmm prime suspect. another McCauley in the making perhaps?

Damn, i was pretty wrong on this one. But its fun to see Spark as part of the espionage squad. Does the squad normally work outside of the Legion's constitution?
Spark was a good choice for those shock palms and i like the truth serum bit and using Condo and glad that Ayla and the rest aren't letting Lyle do this by himself.
Like the plan of them being the back up muscle.
Lyle and Condo are too cute as were Ayla and Cham.
I'm a little surprised Lyle wasn't more firm with the time. i figured he's be very egger to get Jaques back.

ugg, I can relate to Triad Neutral. When people just give me facts and numbers i can't help but zone out myself. But i'm glad she's giving suggestions and using her own background to help make this presentation better to help others on Cragg. I love that she knows you have to play to the heartstrings of people. I feel for Tatlisa. its hard to pair down information when you think all of it is important.
i liked that Neutral had her sisters join in, know that if it passes them its good.


loved this moment.

The bundle of nerves that everyone was during the Tribunal meeting was well done. Triad's inability to triplicate must have been agonizing for her.
loved Chuck being the muscle and Legionnaire support. Not gonna lie i wish she was able to have a few others with her....maybe even M'Onel, for the obvious Valor connection.
I get the reasons behind that law for the Tribunal. saves space. But it makes me wonder if this debate has been going on for longer than we realize and the one who started it did so to keep those with differences to not be seen because this public of a stage would make it evident for sure.

I'm nervous for Triad watching these proceedings. i'm proud of her for keeping herself in check. but i'm with Purple and want to give that presenter a talking to.
So happy chuck is there to be her rock and doing a great job.
Seeing all those instances was from the slightest difference among triplets to Triad being the farthest was a great presentation. it ampped up the the emotional strings really well.
Loved the end of Tatlisa's speech and how they've come along way from the past and in order to embrace the future we have to embrace the differences. Sounds very much like what's going on in the real world with many debates we all are having. (specifically those dealing with conversion therapy.)

I understand what Neutral is saying. Small victories. But i'm with Purple. we can do better!
Man, Chuck is a great guy with all three of her and he does a great job at being there for her. Loved that they all agree on him!

it was really nice getting to see Spark and Chemical Kid getting along and comparing lives and mates. the make great points about Cham and Lyle not being very forth coming about their pasts but are great listeners.
Spark getting to be rustic wasn't something we saw much of. So this side of her is really nice to see.

Loved these and can't wait for more!

heya Omni, thanks for the read & review

Re Mentalla and Sensor, I definitely considered them.... but I'm also trying to give every Legionnaire their day in the limelight, so they didn't come along this time Don't want to overuse anyone, hee hee.

The Espionage Squad normally works within the Constitution, so I tried to show that they were just within it. By having the situation with Jacques, a super powered Earthgov spy, be compromised = a real security threat. (Also had to be consistent with Legion 5, where Lyle really quotes the Constitution to an annoyed Imra, showing that he does take it seriously...)

Lyle is eager, but at this point he was still winging it - he didn't know yet what was coming up on Corvan IV. So one hour more was ok He used that one hour to plan.

Glad you liked Triad's role and contribution on Cargg. And yes, poor Tatlisa had a lot to sift through. But she was wise enough to listen to good advice

Oh, good thought on M'Onel. I need to read back and see what I did re him revealing himself as Valor, I think I had him keep it a secret. And for Triad, this was a very personal trip so only Chuck came along Re the differences, indeed, very possible that at least some of those who proposed the no-triplication rule saw it as a way to keep their differences hidden

Yeah, I think without Chuck there, Purple might have burst out!

Yeah, I also often get mixed feelings/thoughts like Triad did at the end of the vote! And Chuck is amazing, knowing how to deal with each of the Triads

I love the Legion friendships and relationships, and can see Ayla / Condo / Lyle / Cham being a nice mini-grouping and yeah, Ayla's rustic side was inspired by Legion Worlds 2, where she returned to Winath

thanks Omni, I'm really excited to keep writing though will slow down for a bit - work will be busy this week and next and this weekend is also booked. But I'm slowly working out the next bits in my head

just a little roadmap for you all, and also for me

Corvan IV / Jacques is the next plotline to be resolved... then the hunt for Cosmic Boy and Sandy/Inferno.

The magical theft plot will be moved along, though not immediately resolved...

Coming up later on (not necessarily in the order below) -

1) Garth and Imra still very much will get married, and by Damn you know these two won't let anything stop them!

2) Star Boy's idea of a semi-permanent Legion detachment on Xanthu will be looked into - Dreamer, Insect Queen and Particon are very supportive. Kid Quantum II and Element Lass too, though they may not initially come along.

3) and open-to-the-public Tryouts are still on the horizon

I'm also open to requests/suggestions for plotlines and characters who could use more screen time. Lume, Babbage and Gear I think could use some more action. I'm also thinking of checking in on Lallor - see how Vapor and Beastmaster are doing.

have to stop thinking and plotting now, my working day is starting

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Corvan IV

Chameleon, Reep Daggle of Durla; shapeshifting
Chemical Kid, Condo Arlik of Phlon; controls chemical reactions
Invisible Kid, Lyle Norg of Earth (Australia and Israel); invisibility
Spark, Ayla Ranzz of Winath; electric manipulation

*************************************************************

Invisible Kid gave silent thanks that his pale skin, brown hair and eyes, and slim build made him a fairly average humanoid by United Planets standards. As he sauntered into the main hall of the Bountiful Harvest, the only casino on Corvan IV, he already spotted four others whom he could swap places with if needed. It also helped that more than half of all UP worlds were descended from Earth.

He did hate that he had to put on the show of a bored, rich brat. But his invisibility worked best in less crowded areas; there were so many sentients here that the only way to avoid detection would have been to take to the air. And a good, trained spy knew better than to do that without checking for sensors and cameras.

Besides, part of the spy game was blending in with the crowd.

He headed for the nearest roulette table and placed a bet. Making a show of slapping some credits on the table, he winked at the attractive red-skinned humanoid female beside him. "Heya, sweetie, what's your name?"

She sniffed and turned her back to him. Lyle grinned mentally - he had learned the hard way, to talk only to those who were clearly alone. He made a mistake once, and the female's hulking boyfriend - he had been bigger than Element Lass! - had knocked out two of his teeth. Lyle shrugged theatrically and snapped his fingers for a passing waiter. Grabbing a cocktail from the tray, he pretended to watch the betting intently. All this was designed to minimize the perception of his competence.

Minutes later, he heard a tiny voice in his ear. "Head to the toilets at four o'clock. Third cubicle."

Lyle downed his drink, let out a boorish burp,, and stumbled away.

**********************************************************

Chameleon watched in amusement as Lyle fumbled with the lock of the cubicle. He had flown ahead of Lyle in the shape of an Imskian Wispwing - tiny, silent, speedy and harmless. He still hovered in that form as a precaution; though the Wispwing had excellent eyesight, albeit in black and white. He could still see Lyle's lack of coordination. "And how do you plan to rescue Jacques if you're already trashed?"

"Please," Lyle rolled his eyes. "Condo tweaked my metabolism before we left. The alcohol is almost through my system, and much of the drunken show was an act. So, what have you found?"

"Blind camera spot next to the big blue urn in the hallway. After that, I'll lead you to the tube leading to the inner hallway."

"Good," Lyle panted. He was already feeling better, though noted with annoyance that sweat had soaked into his shirt. But that's what happens when one's body goes through intoxication in a compressed amount of time... "I'll be with you in a minute... you don't mind giving me some privacy...?"

"Wait for you outside." Reep did his best to stop from laughing out loud, as he flew above the door. He did permit himself a small chuckle as he heard Lyle jab at the flushing mechanism. He would definitely be ribbing Lyle about this next time they sat down for a meal...

**********************************************************

Ragulti Agonal sighed dispassionately as he watched Jacques Foccart writhe in pain. He was no sadist; he saw punishment as a tool, a way to keep staff and weapons in line. Like the blasts of frozen nitrogen he administered to the young men in her harem who failed to please him properly; a punishment that would cause pain without marring their looks. After all, they were in his harem precisely because they were pretty, so he made sure they would remember their lesson without it leaving a mark.

He used his staff to lift Jacques' chin. He took a moment to admire his full lips and lean face. Ah, he had thought about bedding Jacques, but he was much more valuable out in the field. "Now, my little spy. You do know what you did wrong, don't you?"

"I... let... myself... be seen..." Jacques spat out. He looked at Ragulti with hatred in his eyes.

"Indeed. What was your assignment?"

"To make sure... those siblings... caused chaos... arrested... pass message to... the incarcerated..."

"And?"

"And get out and report..."

"But no..." Ragulti held out his arm; one of his favorites, Peeto, a strapping Rimborian, hurried forward to take his drink. "You had to go and be seen by two Legionnaires!"

"Not my fault..." Jacques said with venom. "Used power on me... UGH!" Jacques recoiled as Ragulti's staff hit his side.

"But you had to go save Lyle Norg!" Ragulti hissed. "And in any case, failure is ALWAYS your fault."

Zyndisky, a rugged Tharrian, looked away; he had had difficulty performing last night, and Ragulti had had him hung upside down for a half hour as punishment.

Ragulti tapped his staff on the floor. "I paid good money to contact you, so you'd better be worth your while. Although..." Ragulti paused, lips twisting in a smile. "You can do your job without certain reproductive organs of yours..."

Jacques' eyes shot open. "You bastard....!"

Ragulti made a show of swinging his staff back...

And he felt a tug at it. He quickly pressed the button that sent a jolt of electricity through the staff. As expected, a familiar brown-haired humanoid suddenly appeared in front of his eyes... and Lyle Norg fell to the floor, shaking.

"I knew that threat of mine would make you act," Regulti giggled. He twirled his staff around and pressed another button, causing a blaster to emerge from the other end. "I know you're a sneaky one, so it's time to die." Before he could press the firing button, a four-armed reptilian appeared seemingly out of nowhere. "Ah, Chameleon, I assume?"

As Chameleon lunged for him, Ragulti watched as the floor below Chameleon melted. As the Durlan fell in, sputtering, the floor solidifed again - trapping him mid-shapeshift like some grotesque half-melted sculpture.

"I've been waiting for the chance to get back at a Legionnaire," Quicksand smiled as she stepped out of her hiding place. "I almost had some before, but Ferro was saved before I could melt him...

"Get over it, Quicksand." Holdur followed behind her, and leaned down to pick up Invisible Kid. Ragulti admired Holdur's bulging biceps as he squeezed the struggling Legionnaires' neck; in seconds, he hung limply.

"This feels good," Ragulti chuckled. "It's so nice to win over the good guys." He grabbed Jacques' chin. "Now, you stay here and think about what you've done, while I go and make sure these two never bother us again."

"You monster..." Jacques hissed.

"I never pretended I wasn't," Ragulti smiled. He waved goodbye to Jacques, long fingers flowing in the air, as he led Quicksand out. Holdur followed, Invisible Kid draped over one oversized arm, and a frozen Chameleon carried in the other.

Jacques fought against his bonds, as the lights went out. Sprock... he had led Lyle into a trap... now he would lose his brother... and any chance at his own freedom. He hung his head and began to cry, and he kept sobbing even as the lights went out.

Neat spy infiltration - having Condo alter Lyle's metabolism is a neat trick.

An Imskian insect must be REALLY small!

Great final scene! I'm a big fan of cliffhanger endings!

Thanks GL, glad you like it I do need to think carefully about how I keep using Condo lol. His alterations can't last too long... don't want him to be overpowered...

more to come soon!

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Corvan IV

Chameleon, Reep Daggle of Durla; shapeshifting
Chemical Kid, Condo Arlik of Phlon; controls chemical reactions
Invisible Kid, Lyle Norg of Earth (Australia and Israel); invisibility
Spark, Ayla Ranzz of Winath; electric manipulation
Violet, Salu Digby of Imsk; size manipulation of own body

Jacques Foccart of Earth; complete concealment of self from detection

*************************************************************

"Yes, set him down just so..." Ragulti watched as Holdur carefully positioned Chameleon's form, frozen in liquified metal, in the clearing. Invisible Kid had required a bit more effort, though Ragulti was less worried about him. After all, a few manacles and a gag had secured the Legionnaire well. Ragulti had quite enjoyed checking Invisible Kid's bonds, and had allowed himself to feel up the slim Legionnaires' firm body a little bit. It would be a shame to let this opportunity go to waste, especially as he didn't expect the Legionnaire to be breathing in a few hours' time...

Danny and Manny, the Winathians, knelt before him; one with a tray of drinks, another with a tray of napkins and snacks. Ragulti smiled, thinking of the tangle they had made last time he played with them together. He selected a low-alcohol cocktail - he wanted his wits at their sharpest - and began to sip. In exactly 23 minutes, he would address the factions on Corvan IV who wanted to demand more from the United Planets... and these two Legionnaires would be the perfect bargaining chips for that.

All while Ragulti kept in the background, and enjoyed the fruits of his labor. Especially easy, after his pet Titanian would mindwipe them of anything that would connect him to this.

He congratulated himself again. Such genius, to recognize the possibilities of the contacts that Sklarian had offered him months ago...

*************************************************************

Jacques Foccart didn't know how long he had been hanging there after watching Lyle and Chameleon be taken. Groggy from his own torture and the drugs Ragulti had been pumping into him, he could barely lift his own head.

He heard distant mumbling, one a deeper baritone, one a lighter alto. "Looks just like his holo..." said the baritone. "Not the invisible ones?" joked the alto. "I do have holos... I exist..." Jacques thought. Then he felt himself being lowered down to the floor.

"This should wake you up..."

Jacques felt himself sweating. Like he was in a sauna. Then slowly, his mind began to clear...

*************************************************************

"Still pretty stoked we made it this far! Go team!" Spark pumped her fist. "So, how much longer?"

"He should be fine in a few minutes," Chemical Kid stood up. "I'm speeding up his system's metabolizing of the drugs... He's had quite a cocktail, so I can't go too fast. But he'll sweat it out... and need a nice sonic shower after." His face broke out in a grin. "My gosh, this feels just like a Jane Bond movie!"

"Yeah, high five!" Spark raised her hand, and Condo gleefully returned the gesture. "Even without sneaky powers, we made it in!"

"But you won't make it out." Spark coughed as some liquid engulfed her. Condo raised his arms to free her, only to find a lash curling around his left forearm. He sank to his knees as his strength was drained.

"You sure she can't fight back?" Twine asked as she bent over Condo. Her lash sapped energy, but she preferred keeping it ready in case. She took some bonds made of the same material as her lash, and carefully tied Condo's arms behind his back. The pink-skinned Rimborian stood up and addressed her companion. "Well, SIRI?"

SIRI the Linsnerian's eyes flared up - she was of the same race as the Legion's Gear, and she would not be addressed like this by a useless mercenary with no powers. "I have used a non-conducting fluid." She looked down at Spark, who was struggling in a small pool of slowly-expanding solution. "She can breathe. She will remain suspended in here until we choose to free her."

"Good." Twine bent down over Jacques, lash at the ready, and turned him over. His eyes were still glazed over, though his breathing had quickened and a pool of sweat formed under his body. "Whatever that Chemical Kid did, it's working. But not fast enough. Let me tie him up, and then we can collect our bonus from Ragulti -"

Twine crashed backwards as Jacques' foot connected with her face. Jacques quickly stood up and advanced on SIRI, his face a mask of rage.

"Playing dead, eh?" SIRI's eyes flashed yellow. "The bonus will all be mine, then..." She fired a stun bolt at Jacques, who dodged and faded.

"I can find you," SIRI looked around as she cycled through different wavelengths. "You can be found, it's impossible that you will remain undetected forever." X-ray. Infra-red. Ultraviolet. Nothing. She commanded the amplifiers in her ears. "I can track you by your footsteps... or your heartbeat..." She recognized Twine's heartbeat, and identified Chemical Kid's and Spark's and her own. But there should be a last one... Somehow...

She suppressed the pang of panic in the pit of her stomach. Jacques' powers were much more expanded than Invisible Kid's, but surely she would be able to find something that could find him. Ragulti should have let her practice more while Jacques was in line... Should have listened to her... She was much more than a living tool, but unlike that fool Gear she would use her techno-organic abilities for her own benefit. She...

SIRI screamed as a shock burst through her body. She slumped forward, shaking. Then she felt something hit the back of her head...

"Overconfident much?" Spark sighed as she stood over SIRI. She tossed away the hideous art piece she had grabbed and used to smash SIRI into unconsciousness. Grimacing at the ugly piece - it looked like an elephant mated with a lightning beast and had adopted her great-aunt Priscilla's fashion sense - she looked down and frowned. The liquid SIRI had hit her with was gone, but now replaced by an ugly yellowish-brown stain - the solvent she had fished out of her belt pouch.

"I think we were overconfident too," Condo weakly muttered. "A little help here?"

"I know, I know, we could have done better," Ayla admitted as she rolled Condo onto his side and freed his arms. "Let's not tell Lyle and Cham about this, okay?"

"My legs too please..." Condo continued. "Still weak... thanks..."

"You can come out now, Jacques," Ayla called as she helped Condo sit up.

"Oh!" both Ayla and Condo exclaimed as Jacques popped into view in front of them. He was carrying a blowtorch, which he set down. "I'm actually impressed. I was going to free you, Spark, but you freed yourself."

Ayla shrugged. "I'm not the first Legionnaire captured by the bad guy, you know."

"You didn't do too badly, considering you don't have the sneaky powers... and even Lyle and Chameleon were caught." Jacques made sure SIRI was secure - a simple matter of binding her hands with a scrambler that would keep her dormant - and straightened up. "Now come on, we have to go find and save them."

"Oh, I wouldn't worry about that," Condo winked. "Ragulti THINKS he's got them, but..."

*************************************************************

"My dear brothers and sisters," Ragulti intoned, though he wished he didn't have to use those words. He was, after all, much wealthier and more cultured than the 7 others he addressed through the holo-screens. Yes, two were regional politicians, one a wealthy farmer, and one a holo-celebrity, but Ragulti himself had the offworld connections and resources that let their little group succeed as much as they had. "The intrusion from these two Legionnaires proves that the United Planets is aware of our activities. We need to act quickly."

"This is all your fault!" screeched the holo-celebrity. Well, his face was hidden and his voice obscured, but Ragulti had secretly had SIRI trace the signal. Unlike some of the others, this celebrity had not been canny enough to use a private network...

Ragulti made a mental note to plant some evidence at the celebrity's quarters that would weaken his position within their cabal.

"You let your pet spy get caught, and now they're here...!" the celebrity continued.

"And I turned that to our advantage!" Ragulti snapped. "I lured these Legionnaires here, and now they're our property. My Titanian will mindwipe them, so they forget about Jacques Foccart being here, forget about our activities." He leaned forward. "We can use them as bargaining chips, showing that they wrongly attacked me in my property, accusing me of aiding our resistance - a charge I will disavow - and demanding concessions from the United Planets for attacking an innocent citizen of Corvan IV!"

"Are you so confident you can cover our tracks so well?" questioned one of the politicians. Ragulti liked this one, she was a very practical woman. She had, after all, suggested sacrificing the two exploding siblings to send a message - and payload - to the incarcerated Corvanites.

"Indeed," Ragulti smiled. "I can have the holo-camera records altered to show what I want to show... and as for these two..." He snapped his fingers, and Nara Minsork sashayed forward. The attractive Titanian's beauty was marred only by the faint outlines of the partially-removed Saturn tattoo on her cheek; the mark of a Titanian repeat offender, Nara had few scruples and plenty of talent. A top-tier Titanian mercenary. Well worth every credit.

Nara placed her hands on both sides of Invisible Kid's head; the Earthling struggled feebly. Too late, as Nara's eyes glowed pink. "This one is intelligent, but no Coluan," she boasted. "And I have invaded even the great Brainiac 5's mind. He will remember what I want him to remember..."

Invisible Kid thrashed. "Bigger!" he shrieked.

Nara seemed taken aback a moment, but quickly recovered. After all, she had a reputation to maintain. "They often speak nonsense when I first penetrate their defenses," she smiled at her audience. "Now, I'm beginning with the most recent memories... namely our call now, I..."

A purple blur expanded under her nose, sending Nara flying onto her behind, unconscious.

Ragulti gripped his staff and rose. Quicksand was faster; she sent a splash of liquid at their latest intruder... Violet.

"No! No!" Ragulti shrieked as Violet shrank down to evade. Quicksand quickly turned her attention to Invisible Kid, coating his body and bonds in a layer of fluid. "He can breathe, but he can't easily be freed," she said.

Holdur moved closer to Ragulti. "Stay close to me."

"Good, that just makes you easier to tie up." Ragulti and Holdur both gasped as they felt themselves be enveloped by a warm, pliable substance. "You can't hold me, Durlan!" Holdur gripped his palms together and started to flex, hoping his broad shoulders would rip Chameleon's form off of them.

"You fool, you're crushing me!" Ragulti gasped.

"Shut up and take it," Holdur retorted. "This is how we get out of here!"

"Ah, ah... no crushing today, it's bedtime..." Chameleon flipped open the vial of sedative he carried, and within seconds both Ragulti and Holdur were unconscious.

"How did you escape my prison?" Quicksand yelled. She blasted a few streams of liquid at Chameleon, who turned into the form of an umbrella to shield Ragulti and Holdur.

"He just pretended to be caught, obviously..." Violet grew to giant height above Quicksand, straightened her body, and slammed her feet into the assassin's head. Quicksand fell to the ground like so many bricks.

"Excellent, Vi," Chameleon elongated one arm to snap some bonds on Quicksand, and another to reach through her liquid coating to release Lyle's hands. "Ugh, kind of slimy, but I've felt worse..."

"Thank you both," Lyle stepped out of his prison. "my arms still feel sore..."

"But you got what we needed, eh?" Cham gestured to the seven holo-screens, all of which had turned blank near the start of their battle. Ragulti's conspirators had cut their losses and ran.

"We can trace the signal," Lyle pulled out his Omnicom, still in its liquid-proof casing, and showed the screen. "All seven of them."

"And I've collected all Ragulti's guards and staff," Violet called out from above. In her giant form, she was reaching down and plucking the fleeing guards and harem members one by one, and setting them into a large basket nestled safely among some trees.

"Looks like a nice wrap," Chameleon chuckled. "Now let's see how Ayla and Condo are doing..."

Feel daunted by the length of this thread? You can also check out the Recap Thread to catch up!

VOLUME 4: MOVING FORWARD

Takron-Galtos

Andromeda, Laurel Gand of Daxam; enhanced speed, strength, invulnerability, vision powers, flight
Echo, Troy Stewart of Earth (South Africa and Trinidad and Tobago); sound manipulation
Mentalla, Delya Castil of Titan; telepathic control of others' physical functions

Mandalla, Tari Wahlmunn of Takron-Galtos; projects a thought-sphere that affects the target's mental and physical functions (Legion Medical Support Staff)

*************************************************************

Izaard stroked the temples of her younger sister, Deaana. The poor thing had suffered violence against the Legionnaires, attacked by Invisible Kid and Chemical Kid as Deaana had tried to free her.

Ostensibly. Now that they were together in a cell, Izaard knew why Deaana and their brother Zenquo had come to Earth. To get caught, so they would be sent to Takron-Galtos to find her... and to smuggle in nano-weapons developed by Imskian scientists, weapons that would grow only in the presence of the genetic signature of the one they were programmed to. That is, Izaard's own.

She had waited patiently, waited the 72 hours they had asked her to. By now, Zenquo should have briefed her lieutenant Vanquo. All the Corvan IV loyalists with her would know their plan.

"it is time, little one," Izaard whispered. Deaana smiled, her eyes still closed. Then, Deanna slipped under their bed, curled into a ball and covered her ears. The inhibiting device drained her of her power to cause explosions, so she had to protect her hearing from the bomb Izaard was about to set off, that would free them from this cell.

"For Corvan IV!" Izaard said under her breath. She had set her Imskian micro-bomb beside the door; it would cause a loud flash and disable the security systems. She waited...

"Why isn't it working?" Izaard stood up. It should have gone off by now...

"Sit down." Izaard found herself complying. What was...

"And you, come on out." Deaana crawled out from under her bed and also sat down beside Izaard, but the look on her face was just as perplexed.

Two figures approached their cell, and Izaard cursed. Mentalla and Echo! How...

"Low level sound waves to disable your bomb," Echo smiled.

"And telepathic control of your actions to make you sit down properly," Mentalla continued. "I do dislike violence, so I'm happy we resolved this easily."

"Now..." Echo moved closer to the bars. "Izaard, you're here because you tried to kill some UP delegates, remember?"*

"But we're here to make you a deal. I would listen, if only for your sister Deaana," Mentalla continued.

Izaard found she could move her head now; she looked at Deaana, who was trying to be brave. But she could see tears in the corner of Deaana's eyes.

Izaard sighed. She herself was used to hardship, but she only endured these for Deaana's good. And prison was no place for one who still had many years ahead of her. "I'm listening..."

*************************************************************

"I really enjoyed this," Andromeda smiled. She had used her microscopic vision to locate the bomb Zenquo and Vanquo had been about to set off, and her laser vision - in a pinpoint blast - to disable it.

All this while Mandalla had stopped the two from even acting, by using her thought sphere to send them into a state of uncoordinated euphoria. The two had rolled on the floor, giggling.

"You, enjoying this?" Mandalla quipped. "I don't know you that well, but you've always seemed so serious. I've never heard you make quips like Wildfire or Shikari would..."

"Call it a difference in perspective, Mandalla," Andromeda smiled. "Mentalla's been helping me with that... I've learned to enjoy being a Legionnaire for the good we do, for the joy it brings me..." She didn't say it out loud, but she was also beginning to understand her fascination with Brainiac 5. It wasn't necessarily romantic; it was because he had saved her life, and she felt in awe of him about that. After all, she had betrayed the Legion and the United Planets out of misguided fear. Brainiac 5 had showed her the truth, that other races are not inferior... and other races can be worthy of respect and love.**

Mandalla laughed. "Preach, sister," she joked. "Now that I have my permanent Legion support status, I can enjoy the privileges that come with it... And I no longer feel bound by my origins as a Takron-Galtos citizen.

"Nobody should ever be bound by their origins, sister," Andromeda returned the joke. "Not even these two. If you would...?"

Mandalla released her thought-sphere. Vanquo was the first to recover. "How did you..."

Andromeda leaned down so she was eye level with Vanquo. "If you agree to help us with evidence about those who sent you these micro-bombs, we can make things easier for you."

Vanquo stammered. Zenquo pushed him aside. "I fight for the cause of Corvan IV. I don't make deals with infidels like you."

"Did you ever think they wanted to succeed?" Mandalla laughed. "So you would have set off those bombs. Then what?"

"Watch this." Andromeda took out her Omnicom, and played the file Invisible Kid had sent her. It showed the hooded figure of the politician speaking with Ragulti. "Yes, the bombs will free Izaard and her group... we want them to cause as much chaos on Takron-Galtos as possible. Kill a few guards, if needed. All so we can show the United Planets that we are not to be trifled with. I doubt they can get free fully... we're not going to commit ourselves to send a rescue ship for them..."

"Those traitors!" Vanquo hissed. Zenquo sat down, slowly. They had been part of a rebel faction trying to control Corvan IV... he thought it was for the greater good... but he hadn't realized they would be left here to rot..."

"I think you're ready to listen now, aren't you?" Mandalla smiled.

*************************************************************

IB's notes:

1) Legion 1, Izaard led a group from Corvan IV who threatened to kill UP delegates unless the UP committed to send aid to Corvan IV.

2) Brainiac 5 saved Andromeda from lead poisoning in LSH 70. This helped lead her to renouncing her White Triangle ties, and she switched sides and helped the Legion in Legionnaires Annual 2.