Legion World Forums LEGION OUTPOST Mission Monitor Board The Office of Security (out with the Lardy, in with the Dev)

The door to the office opens.

Sitting in front of them is Dev Em. He's in a hovorchair. He has what looks like metal shoulderpads on, and an apparatus on his left forearm. He is obviously still in pain, but is smiling at the sight of his friends, and brother. Not such a thrilled on his face when he sees Kalla.

"Hello there," he says, "did you miss me?"

Er, hi, Dev... <looks around a little sheepishly>

Good to see you up and about, man.

"Yeah. Good to see that you've suffered no permanent damage >cough< from your experience." He gives Lardy a nod. "I need to talk to you about a few things Lardy. Soon, but not right now." >cough<

He looks at Cobalt and says, "I need to borrow Lon for a little while. We have some family business to attend to. >cough< Shouldn't take more than a couple days. I'll return him the same way as I'm taking him. Then he can join in on all your little games."

Lon looks at him. "You sure you want to do this right now? You're not exactly..."

"I want my kids back, and thanks to the little gift of your blood you gave me after my fight, I am better than I have any right being."

Lon leans over and gives Kalla a kiss. "Sorry honey, I got to take care of this...when I get back, you can catch me up," he says with a wink.

"Sorry about the timing, but we have to go get Sharklad and get moving as soon as possible."

Lon walks out of the room.

Dev moves towards Lardy and hands him an envelope, "Can you please give this to Tempest for me when you see her. Thanks man."

Dev heads towards the door and then looks between Des, Anthony and Kalla. "I hope you all know what you're doing," he says as he shuts the door.

<frowns> What's goin' on between Dev and Tempest? Isn't he married?!? <Lardy is ignorant of all Dev's been thru recently>

<shrugs it off and looks at Kalla> What do you know of this Dark Oval "god"?

(Walks into the Office, her vigor fully restored. Feeling a bit brighter now that Red Bee is dead, her wardrobe reflects her feelings as she is in a black strapless miniskirt and high heels, her hair is loose and in its' naturally wavy state.)

What a rush to know that little murdering bastard is gone. Only wish I could have done it myself. Why does my own vengeance always allude me? Hello, what's going in there?

(Walks over to Lardy's office and briskly opens the door.)

Why, hello everyone. Some sort of meeting? Can't be completely Office related with you two here.

(She looks at Cobalt Kid and Hot Chick.)

Thought you might want to know that I have made a miraculous recovery, the silly little science doctors can't explain it. And my powers...let's just saying being out of body has reminded me the importance of keeping up one's mind and spirit. I can sense things in the ether---

(Makes a sharp look to Hot Chick.)

Something else else isn't right about her. Look at the way they are looking at me. They know something. What the hell happened why I was under?

Should I even pry? Do I have the right, considering what I have done to all of them? Especially, you.

(She turns to Cobalt, her eyes looking at him with a mournful gleam.)

Well, this all seems too boring for me. Seeing as my money went to making robots, Lardy, which attacked citizens, I expect a refund. Keeping the room, though.

And if you see Dev, let him know that I am looking for him.

(She winks to Lardy, hoping to get a spark of jealousy. She leaves the door open and heads down to her room.)

<Lardy's jaw drops slightly> Man! I've GOTTA get to know that woman better! What could she possibly see in baldy?!?

...um...er...where were we again?

Yes, there's no doubt about it. She reminds me of Viv; now that the crisis has passed and my thoughts aren't immediately focused elsewhere, it's rather obvious. Is that you, Viviane? After all these years?

Well, I'd forgotten how many interruptions the Security Chief gets on a normal basis, Lardy. It certainly isn't the most fun part of the job.

<back to Kalla>

Kalla, Lardy had an excellent question. Tell us about this 'Dark Oval Deity' worshipped by Romaltus and Mala. Who else worships it? Meaning, is it a commonly shared belief? My Space Knights and spies have reported to me many things about this deity and it remains one of the single most mysterious parts of the Dark Oval. I'd like to think I know a bit about it already, but given your earlier comments about misinformation, perhaps you can distill it for us.

{has a thoughtful look about her} I've never heard this entity named, but I have often been required, along with the other Oval leaders, to particpate in rituals that are meant to honor him. {nods} Yes, it's apparently a "He".

One occasion where the ritual seemed like the biggest deal was [http://www.legionworld.net/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=000827;p=3#000035]after we took Epsilon Sector[/url]. Romaltus killed his and Mala's closest ally, Arun Nal, and demanded that we all drink Arun's blood. I recall as clearly as it was yesterday, Romaltus saying to Arun, "The God of the Dark Oval demands you as a sacrifice to sanctify this day and to close the circle.”

We all drank. Me, I just wanted my birthright, and if drinking some old seer's blood was required...so be it. I certainly don't worship any god anymore. I was with the Church of the Eternal Void and worshipped Sol Invictus with them as the Destroyer, but, well, that was a phase I was going through. I was depressed and suicidal at the time--hell, I guess you have to be to worship complete nothingness like that.

{looks around} Sorry, I digress. Anyhow, I couldn't get a read on the others, but Wyandotte and the Pyngwyn have never struck me as believers. Certainly, no one in the Dominion believe in this entity.

But Romaltus and Mala? They are all-in with their God. It's painfully obvious. He makes reference to "communing" with this god...in such a way that I really think he can converse him...or at leasts he thinks he can. It's really kind of creepy to tell the truth.

I really feel like I have the numbers of Wyandotte and the Pyngwyn. They don't scare me. But Romaltus and Mala? They kind of do! It's going against them, more than anything, that makes me feel as if I need allies from outside.

<soaks this in>

Well, from our LMB experiences, we can't overlook the possibility that there may be an actual entity serving as the Power behind the power.

<looks at Cobie> What do you know about this deity?

<Cobalt considers the question and his reply for a moment>

As you know, following Legion World's Invasion, the United Planets commissioned me as Senior General of all of the military of the UP for battling the Dark Oval. I led the former Triumvirate armies, backed by the UP, into the D.O. and was able to "take back"--or re-conquor from the D.O. perspective--several planets within the Dominion portion of the D.O. These planets are now a part of UP space, and are called "The Contested Territories". As you can imagine, the problems there are numerous and the Dominion is highly unhappy they have lost part of their empire.

What was left of the Triumvirate armies was turned into the Space Knights Templar--a combination of my warriors and Eryk Davis Ester's monks to try to create a new type of order, or perhaps a better way to explain it is recreate a very old one. The Knights do many things for the UP but their main purpose these days is to safeguard the citizens of the Contested Territories, as well as particularly safeguard UP representatives who journey there.

Yet...a new secondary motivation exists for being there. They've...discovered some things. Some very ancient, millenia old temples and architecture that predate even the Dominion. Our very best archeologists have determined that the various references contained within are directly linked to this ‘dark deity’ worshipped in parts of the Dark Oval. He was a very ancient being and there is no blurriness to his intentions—this was an evil, ruthless entity. I’ve now begun to fear this dark deity is actually the true mastermind behind the Dark Oval, even if most of the D.O. do not know it.

I’ve always suspected Caracalla moved the Black Sun out of the D.O. on purpose because he felt his plans were in conflict with a Higher Power. I’m now sure of it.

<Cobalt has some more “secrets” the Knights Templar have un-Earthed but for the moment, decides to go no further. They are not for Kalla’s ears and he isn’t quite sure how to explain them to Lardy yet, when Lardy is specifically linked to these secrets.>

The ultimate goal of the Dark Oval is to conquer all of space if the ancient runes depicting the deity are being read correctly. And this plan, and the existence of the ancient enemy, date back long ago, perhaps even before civilization on Earth, the mother planet.

<sips his scotch>

When we do go to the Dark Oval, one of our priorities must be to learn more about this deity anyway possible. Because I fear Romaltus and Mala are protected in a way we can't comprehend.

<looks at Des sternly> My priority isn't to "learn" anything, Des. I intend for us to do nothing less than take those bastards down! That sunnuvabitch Romaltus--! He was supposed to be mine and Dru's FRIEND!!! Your uncle or not, I SWEAR when I get my hands on him, I'll--! <face turns red but he holds back and goes silent>

<Cobalt rises and puts his hand on Lardy's shoulder>

I hold no love for that murderer. Being my uncle and a fellow Ggrrggian only makes my ill will towards him even more so.

Removing Romatlus and Mala off the board is absolutely a step that needs to be taken if we're to combat the Dark Oval. But I worry that we'd only be defeating enemies while an even greater evil waited for us to do so and then took us out accordingly.

<considers Romaltus for a moment.>

In the end, a quintessential Ggrrggian. I hope I get a chance to confront him before this all ends.

<back towards Lardy and Kalla>

We'll begin in earnest and preparations should move quickly. But we cannot lose sight of the endgame. If the other Dark Oval powers are taken off the Board and Kalla Hrykos remains, what if this deity is still an active, living sentient, waiting for us to leave the D.O., and then strikes at Kalla when she is left all alone? Or forces her to work with--or for--him?

There will many things to accomplish while we are there. So I'll reiterate, we have to find out what we can about this deity. He could be the key to the true mystery of the Dark Oval. And we can only hope all of our goals are easily achievable in unison.

I haven't seen Lardy show so much emotion about Dru since...well, since before his ressurection. His memories returning must be making the pain very new again. I feel for him.

There will be plenty more questions to ask and things to be discussed. I know I intend to think of more. But we certainly have enough information now to begin...

<Cobalt considers the numerous things Kalla told them about locations, defenses, technology, economy, and all other things that happened in between posts "off-panel" which are not being recorded here.>

Is there anything else to discuss?

{considers for a moment} Should I volunteer what I know about Rockhopper Lass, Bat-Fem and the rest? No, I think I need to keep a few of my cards onhand...

No, I think I've covered all of it.

Gods...I shouldn't have lost control like that! I though betrayal couldn't hurt that much after all I've been through. But Romaltus--he was like a father to me and Dru. That irredeemable bastard!

I think that will do it for now. I have a few things to square away. We'll meet again soon and take care of the nuts and bolts.

In the meantime think about who all will be going along with us. I think it goes without saying that this will fall under the black ops/espionage category and should be both voluntary and top secret.

Cobalt, I know you will be in contact with us soon. <leaves>

You know where to find me,

<Cobalt adds as Lardy leaves; now he turns to Kalla as its just the two of them.>

You're playing a magnificent game, Kalla, I'll give you that. But don't think for a moment that I'm unaware you're indeed playing it. I don't trust you, and more, I don't like you.

You may think you might be able to play us, or even some of us specifically but I warn you--don't do it.

Or what you're left to control in the Dark Oval won't be much.

<Cobalt leaves, calming walking out.>

Question Lad arrived back at the office after a visit to Charltonburg. He would have to return soon, and hopefully with a new business associate. The neon lights of Legionopolis felt like the warm rays of sun after all he did that evening. He read and reread Argenti's editorial attacking Legionworld government and the Security Council's approach, especially in regards to business, with him referenced as "the valuable source".

He knocked on Red Arrow's door. She walked out the room wearing a business casual outfit. There was a little star on the collar of her polo shirt, which distracted Sebastian's attention. She said, "Time for our meeting then?"

"Yes. What brand is that shirt?" He asked.

"Strange Fashions, the latest from Alpha Centauri. Now let's go and give our presentations," She said matter-of-factly. "And I booked a formal appointment with the secretary so if we get snubbed, no dice."

"Good," The two walked down the hall to a meeting room. Sebastian saw Chief Lardy and waved.

<waves at Sebastian absently, exits and takes a walk toward the Rookery>

{watches Cobie exit} I'll have to arrange an "accident" when I'm done with that one. He's too damned dangerous to be allowed to live when this is over...

Sebastian says, "No, wait." He loses all composure and runs to stop him from leaving. He holds up his Susannoo 3000 (think smartphone) and says. "You scheduled an appointment with us at this time."

Uh...what? Oh. I really need to get somewhere soon. Will it take long?

<sighs> Oh, joy. Business. I'll give you 15 minutes. No more.

<walks with Sebastian back to his office as Kalla walks out>

<Emily joins them>

Awright, guys. Shoot.

Emily says, "Hit the projector, Sebastion."

She has her slideshow presentation ready. Emily says, "Thank you for coming today. I am Emily Lana Sivana. I have extensive ties to the scientific and industrial communities. As well as what is called the super-human community."

<Slide One shows Ted Knight with Linus Pauling and Robert Oppenheimar, as well as a picture of Dr. Sivana accepting the Noble Peace Prize in Physics>

"My ancestor Ted Knight worked with the U.S government on the Manhattan Project. Here he is pictured with Robert Oppenheimar and Linus Pauling..."

"Oh! So that's the Linus you want to name your son after," Sebastian thought aloud.

"Yes. Someday in the far future. Anyways, my other ancestor Dr. Sivana took a different approach. He reached for the stars and landed on the moon...or Venus to be more procise. Both of them were beyound their time and the companies still are today," She said.

<Slide Two features the graphs of recent stock>

"The introduction of the Susannoo 3000 has caused Sivana Technology stocks to soar. If my calculations are right there will be dividends in the next quarter," She said cheerily.

"In other news, Knight Industries has joined Miraclo Pharmaceuticals in funding more research into radiation treatments. A recent grant will speed up the development of a new product," She said with a pause and nod towards Sebastion.

<Slide 3 has pictures of the Venusian system as well as other worlds related to the Sivanas and Knights. The cutest picture is of a young Emily playing with some Crocodile-Men from the planet Punkus>

"We have financial activities on over 247 worlds. There is a large market base for manufactured products and the hope is Legionworld will begin to benefit from it. The future is now," She said. The slideshow ends.

"I am personally donating to many institutions here on Legionworld. My relatives have gladly donated as well to the people of Legionworld," She said. "I have two contracts here from each side of my family. Investments will bring jobs to Legionworld, jobs they will need because some companies will be pulling out due to the unstability. In return, I ask to not be branded the Hank Pym of the LMB."

She notes his blank expression, "I will not be the useless, crazy scientist. The Lard-Bot incident will not be spoken about anymore. Anyways, I will let Sebastian present now."

Sebastian gets up his Powerpoint. He says, "Isn't that a nice screenshot? I was in Israel a bit ago. That's where some people think Solomon met the Queen of Sheba."

<Slide One Shows Sage Minerals Log>

"I am not here to talk about centuries old companies. I cannot guarantee you the stability Emily can, but what I can offer is just as good. I sold-worked in the stadiums of Cabral during the highest stakes Tournament. I ended up winning a huge sum of money."

<Slide Two shows his mansion & mines on Cabral>

"I used this money to buy a gold mine and a diamond mine. And now I am pleased to announce that Sage Minerals is going public!" He says.

<Slide Three Shows Profits & Stock Predictions>

"These are my profits from the last quarter and predictions for the next quarter. Companies that have invested in Sage Minerals include Ferris Sweeteners, Juz Steel, Fifth Circle Banking, Arle Architecture, and Sousa Telecom," He said.

<Slide Four Shows him pictured in a meeting, Slide Five shows him shaking a politician's hand>

"By setting up my office in the lovely suburb of Charltonburg, I have created ties with the local economy. Sage Minerals will bring jobs and opportunities to the people of Legionworld," He said. He ends the Powerpoint.

"I propose to pay back those who lost property and loved ones to the Red Bee disaster," He said. "We'll set it up as the Celest Sage Foundation. The public will never know the role the Security Council played in all of this. In return, I ask for a severe tax reduction. I also have a seperate offer for Exxnihil. Do you know where I could find him?"

<smiles a wry grin> You kids are priceless!

Anyhow, I'm of course in favor of anything that helps Legion World recover, especially when some of the damage is our fault. However, I'm Security Chief and have no control over taxation. I'm sure I could put a good word in, though.

<puts his hands on their shoulders> I appreciate the desire to help that you two exhibit. It makes me proud...so long as altruism is your main goal. There's plenty of room for commerce and profitability here on Legion World, but it will never be controlled by corporations the way that Earth is. Keep that in mind.

<looks Emily square in the eyes> Emily, I haven't had a chance to talk to you extensively about what you did by unleashing the Lard-Bots. I think I understand more than anyone that you proabably did what you thought I would do. You're young and idealistic, and I kind of admire your guts. But we all have to learn from our mistakes, and some of us have to pay for them.

<looks at both> I'm pretty certain that my time as Chief is nearing its end. Before it does, I will pardon Emily for any crimes she may be liable for. But I won't be in a position to protect you after that.

So learn from your experiences as much as you can and act bravely and with the wisdom that can only come from having made mistakes. If I can, I'll always be willing to lend you my ear and my support. You two mean a lot to me. <hugs them>

<thinks> I wonder if Emily would accompany us into the Dark Oval. Can't ask her in front of Sebastian. Maybe later...

Ex, you two can find at the Tobacconihilist, most likely. Anything else before I go?