Rukellian wrote:As the professor asks Joseph Arikas of this potential underhanded plan, he checks to see how the man takes this. He hopes that he is easy to read like Max when under pressure, but this is not so. You cannot detect even a hint of guilt or nervousness in the man's face as he responds to you thusly, plainly and simply: "My orders to them were simply to help run the craft and to ensure your safety when applicable. I did not give any such orders that you spoke of, nor would I have reason to. What brought this on my friend? And where is the crew now? I would have them directly questioned myself if given the oppurtunity."
Professor: "It's a long story. A long story that possibly involves the tiniest soupçon of time travel. The point is, you need to screen your men more thoroughly next time. They might have endangered the mission, and your son's life. They certainly endangered their own."
"Now, the second matter at hand. And let me stress the absolute urgency of your speaking with utter, unreserved candor. We are old friends, and you know I abhor melodrama, so I'm sure you will understand how serious I am when I say we are quite literally speaking about the safety and security of the world."
The man sighs heavily as he leans forward onto the back seat of his chair. "How did you come across this term?" Joseph stares straight into the professor's eyes as he says this. The room is deadly silent and Max can feel the tension in the air, never having seen his father act so seriously before. "I will need to know just how much you truly know about it before I can discuss it at any length. Truth be told, it is a very dangerous subject and I would have preferred to not drag you into this, friend."
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
The Professor: "Don't worry about dragging me anywhere. I've been finding my way into the world's sticky corners since before you were in knee socks, Joseph. Since your father was in knee socks."
The Professor takes off his glasses, puts them in the breast pocket of his jacket, removes the jacket, and folds it neatly over a chair on one side of the room. He then crosses over and sits down on a chair on the other side of the room.
"Our expedition made it to Lost Gorillapolis. We didn't have an opportunity to pursue our research objectives because the Telepathic Moon Gorillas were in a terrible hurry to quit this planet before it is destroyed by a combination of virulent crystallography and human greed. You know how advanced the Moon Gorillas are, both as individuals and as a society. Well, apart from all the dominance rituals."
The Professor idly rolls up one of his sleeves as he talks, revealing his scrawny, leathery forearm.
"Even with the sudden outbreak of prodigies on this planet, we're the most desperate primitives compared to them. And they consider this... Ichnorite to be an existential threat. I'm inclined to agree."
The Professor rolls up his second sleeve. "I assume we can rely on your assistance?"
Player: Erico Caravellino - Thief : Elphand Adventures (ACKS Wilderlands - On Hold) Stanilus Peri -Fighter (Bard) : Wardens in the North (D&D 1st Ed - On Hold)
MonkeyWrench wrote:So I shouldn't include the law ruling of Hotch vs State that anyone with wings that are not of a mechanized or otherwise detachable state are to be treated as kings and given anything they want? Huh...
Raven contemplates the attendants words, I think I want a sword... I saw some pictures on the flight here, is that do-able?"
"A sword sir?" The attendant looks to Elsa for confirmation. After recieving a nod and smile, he then looks back towards Raven and states in a professional tone. "In order to legally acquire a sword in this time and age, you will need to be part of a proper martial arts athletic group with documentation and membership stating such, or... you can acquire such an item through being registered in the SFH program. Supers For Hire, is an organization in Atlas City, that allows its supers to act as a body of law enforcement when dealing with super powered threats and the like. Each member of SFH has a hero license that would allow them to have access to equipment and other questionable items, for the sake of carrying out their duties to the public."
After a moment of silent thought, the attendant then adds in, "I do not have the authority to allow you two access to Atlas City, however... if you were to find some way in by yourselves, through means that I am unaware of, you might be able to contact the SFH from inside. Strictly speaking though, you did not here any of this from me." The elderly gentleman then ends this statement with a sly smile and a bow.
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
Joseph Arikas relaxes some, allowing himself to sit down and nod his head as he hears the two speak before him. "So the lost city of Gorillapolis turned out to be THAT kind of city. I see, I see... Yes Max, I know of this Ichnorite, and it would seem that the both of you are well aware of the dangers it poses to our world. While you two were away on your expedition, and some time even before that, Arikas Shipping has been handling some of this ichnorite, making sure it is sent to proper hands for research and development. We cannot allow it to spread on the market as a source of drugs, or as a biological weapon in the underground trade. It is ironic then when I say that the only current method of transporting these goods to the right people is through such markets.
No doubt you have heard of those who would seek to misuse it. You can rest easy knowing that we are not one of those organizations. Through the scientists and research orginizations that we are contracted with, we hope to help develop a new world based off of a reliable source of ichnorite fueled energy. Though some theories are already in development for such an energy source, it has not been perfected yet. Given my current role in all of this, I am not at the liberty of sharing any names with you in regards to the projects at work here, but yes, I fully realize, and we all fully realize the dangers of this substance."
After looking at the corner of his desk for a moment and silently thinking to himself, Joseph Arikas then speaks up once more, this time with some more hesitation in this voice. "Concerning our method of transportation of said Ichnorite, it is not as secure as we thought it was. Shortly before you left for your expedition, one of our main underground warehouses was... broken into. A group of individuals were found teleporting into the facility, stealing deposits of this ichnorite, and then teleporting themselves and the ichnorite back out. The technology they used, it was like something straight out of a comic book, but my men there saw this happen with their own eyes, and I have no reason to refute the evidence also captured on security cameras. Even as we speak, the warehouse has fallen out of communications once more, for about a day now. I fear that someone is attempting another theft. I was going to send more men in to investigate, but considering your guys' role in all of this now...
I'm sorry Max. I really was hoping for a nice, safe university life for you, but it would appear as if you are getting your other wishes now."
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
Professor: "Joseph, I'm afraid I need more than your assurances that the snail is on his thorn, God is in his Heaven, and all is sunshine and skittles. Recent experience has proven that Arikas Shipping has its rotten apples, and this is too important to give your human resources department the benefit of the doubt. As you say, you have people who can run warehouses and shoot at things. I am a researcher, and Ichnorite has suddenly become my research priority. I want to know everything you know about it, everything you are doing and have done with it, I want to meet the people you have working on it, and, by Jiminy, I want to get my hands on some of the stuff under properly controlled conditions."
Last edited by Pulpatoon on Thu Apr 17, 2014 2:20 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Player: Erico Caravellino - Thief : Elphand Adventures (ACKS Wilderlands - On Hold) Stanilus Peri -Fighter (Bard) : Wardens in the North (D&D 1st Ed - On Hold)
Raven nods his head as the attendant speaks, once he is done Raven raises his head, "Alright, a sword would be... cool." He then looks towards Elsa, "Lets go find a way on the island."
Life is a roller coaster, if you don't stop to enjoy it then you may as well not even ride.
Pulpatoon wrote:Professor: "Joseph, I'm afraid I need more than your assurances that the snail is on his thorn, God is in his Heaven, and all is sunshine and skittles. Recent experience has proven that Arikas Shipping has its rotten apples, and this is too important to give your human resources department the benefit of the doubt. As you say, you have people who can run warehouses and shoot at things. I am a researcher, and Ichnorite has suddenly become my research priority. I want to know everything you know about it, everything you are doing and have done with it, I want to meet the people you have working on it, and, by Jiminy, I want to get my hands on some of the stuff under properly controlled conditions."
Joseph just shakes his head as he looks to his desk. "You know you are asking too much of me. Though I may oversee the transportation of said items and have knowledge of what they are to be used for, I am no specialist when it comes to Ichnorite, far from it." He then sighs once more as he knows very well that his friend Mr. Perryton can be quite the stubborn fellow.
"You are not going to budge on the issue I take it? Fine, I suppose.... since you are such a good friend to the family, I will let you know about a few things that are strictly off the record, so to speak. I warn you though, if word got out about any of this, the good reputation of Arikas Shipping would be thoroughly ruined. Our confidentiality in such things is taken in high regard and we are not in the habit of spilling secrets about our contracted relations. I sincerely hope, Professor, that you will not betray my trust."
And with that said, the man motions for the professor to follow him. As Maximillian gets up to follow, his father immediately commands him to sit back down. "No! This conversation is just to be between me and the Professor. You will wait for us to return, and don't, DON'T talk back to me boy. I do not have the patience for such right now." Joseph Arikas then continues in escorting the Professor, hoping that his stern order to Max would be enough. As they exit the room and head down the waiting lounge, they stop between two chairs. The attendant behind them nods in understanding and pushes a button on her desk. The walls in front of the two then part, floor and chairs including, and reveals a small room. As the two step inside, a light flickers on and two chairs can be found sitting in the center around a table. The walls close behind them and they are finally alone.
Spoiler to be read by Pulpatoon only. Tooley, MonkeyWrench, and PyroArrow, please try your best to not read the following.
"You have taken a strong interest in Ichnorite my friend, well, so have a few others. One of the organizations I am contracted with, Rook Industries, is one of the forerunners in a new project to create a powerful new energy source using Ichnorite as a base fuel. I know, I know, they used to be a weapons manufacturing company. Ever since their change in management however, their goals have changed. Instead of crafting weapons, they will be in the energy business. This has not been made public yet, obviously. They wish to perfect the Ichnorite fueled engine first, secure a product on their new market so to speak.
Another person that I have been in brief contact with is another professor by the name of Maurice Feldon. You may not have heard of his contributions to the scientific field, considering your usual line of research, but suffice to say, it was strange to hear a leading scientist in advanced robotics to start inquiring about Ichnorite straight out of the blue. And to ask Arikas Shipping of all companies, something did not sit right with me and his questioning. I have arranged for some people to meet him on my behalf. Perhaps it would also be in your best interest to contact this man as well?"
He then stops and raises his hands in a shrug like manner. "Truly, this is all that I can tell you at the moment, in regard to Ichnorite that is. I would set up an appointment for you with Rook Industries, but they are... hard to contact, considering that they are now based soley in Atlas City, home of the supers and all that."
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
The Professor responds: "Thank you for your confidence, Joseph."
He pulls out his notebook, and jots down in a particularly obscure Aramaic dialect the information about Rook Industries and Maurice Sheldon. "Yes, I think I should follow up on both these points of contact. Anything you might be able to provide in the way of introduction would speed things along and be most appreciated."
"I'll ask your boy to come along, but he might prefer the derring do of your warehouse heist."
The Professor returns to Joseph Arikas' main office, unrolls his sleeves, and puts his jacket and glasses back on. "Maximillian, I'm going to scuff a little shoe leather, as the crime novelists like to say. Would you care to join me, or would you rather go... oh, roust about your father's warehouse?"
Max to the Professor: "Well now that you pique my curiosity as to why i would go to the warehouse & roust about, i guess i will go there first & join up with you later perhaps?"
Player: Erico Caravellino - Thief : Elphand Adventures (ACKS Wilderlands - On Hold) Stanilus Peri -Fighter (Bard) : Wardens in the North (D&D 1st Ed - On Hold)
The Professor:"Your father mentioned losing contact with a holding facility, and being afraid that there might be a robbery underway? I'm sure he'll be along in a moment to send you on your way. You have my number, yes? Give me a call when you have anything to report." He taps his breast pocket where his smartphone resides. "I think I have text messaging turned on. One of the other grad students helped me set up this thing. I wish she'd change the ringtone, though."
"Just as your professor says Max. I will have to honor your request from a few days ago and let you play the role of a super. It's going to be by my terms though. Do you understand?" The question was commanding, and did not warrant a response for the expression on his father's face did not ask for such, only compliance. It was a similiar expression he wore in business meetings and when righting up contracts, he was serious and this was anything but a joking matter.
"As I mentioned earlier, one of our company's warehouses has been cut off in communications for the last couple days now. I do not know what condition it is in, but I would have you find out for me. The warehouse in question is situated under an abandoned chemical plant, the entrance inside. The plant is just west of the seaport, you can't miss it. The guards there will not hesitate to shoot you if they find you trespassing, they have been trained to do so. Though you carry the Arikas name, no one there will know that and will not stop to figure that out. Once you reach the warehouse, seek out a man named Gregorus Heftfield, he is the foreman of the branch there and will hopefully be able to provide a proper explanation. Know that this mission of yours is strictly off the radar, behind closed doors, never happened and never will happen."
And without even letting his own son reply, Joseph flips open a cellphone and speed dials someone, turning his attention to the professor as he speaks. "Now, let us see if I can secure an appointment with the persons that I spoke of earlier, yes?"
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
MonkeyWrench wrote:Raven nods his head as the attendant speaks, once he is done Raven raises his head, "Alright, a sword would be... cool." He then looks towards Elsa, "Lets go find a way on the island."
Elsa and Raven both take the vehicle provided to them to the local seaport. Upon arrival, they notice that all of the ports were shutdown for security purposes, by orders of Arikas Shipping. Even all of the non-commercial vessels were kept at bay. As you look around for someone in charge, a white van comes rushing into your direction. It stops and someone comes running out.
A woman who appears to be in her early 30's to late 20's. She is of average height but has a very pronounced chest, not something you would expect to see from a person wearing a long white lab coat and pair of expensive eyeglasses. She stops just in front of you two, panting and fear-stricken. Her voice shakes as she speaks. "You two, you are heroes right? Can you help me? My friends are in danger!!"
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
Raven calmly regards the woman, "What kind of danger? I don't know about the hero part but we might as well help." as an after thought he adds in, "Do you happen to have a sword?"
Life is a roller coaster, if you don't stop to enjoy it then you may as well not even ride.
MonkeyWrench wrote:Raven calmly regards the woman, "What kind of danger? I don't know about the hero part but we might as well help." as an after thought he adds in, "Do you happen to have a sword?"
The young woman pauses for a moment in surprise upon hearing such a question, but then quickly stammers afterwards, "uh sure, just not here... if you can really help me and friends out in this situation, we would be more than happy to supply you with one! So its a yes then?!"
Elsa looks to Raven and the woman, thinking about whether she wants to get involved in another incident. With a bit of reluctance in her nod, she agrees and shows her silent approval.
"Okay, we don't have much time! About a day ago, some of my friends were sent to investigate the abandoned chemical plant just a short distance from here. They were in search of an underground black market in order to retrieve something before our enemy does. They have not come back! I'm worried that they are in some sort of trouble. I've tried to contact them, but none of my messages have gotten through. If you can find them, and help them out, you will have your sword, and whatever it is that she would like too. Please!"
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
Elsa and Raven are quick to hop into their own vehicle and follow the scientist lady. After a few moments of driving dangerously fast, you both arrive at the plant that she spoke of.
"Somewhere in there... I don't know where though. I have not gone inside myself. I was to wait at Rinky Joe's for the meetup spot, but I will wait here now instead. I can't go back to some fast food joint knowing that you two might get into trouble as well!"
outside of abandoned factory.jpg (121.57 KiB) Viewed 527 times
Just outside the plant, you see another person hanging around the front entrance. A young man from the looks of things, just barely an adult. He seems a bit confused, as if were waiting for someone.
(Pyro, this is your character. You can join in with Raven and Elsa now. Consider this a chance meeting.)
Even a child that receives one bit of praise has the ability to excel in a single talent, and those who receive regular encouragement can feel confidence, achieve success, and become leading members of society. Because they don’t believe they are worthless, they don’t need to raise a fist and have vengeance against fate or the world at large… ~Inspector Lunge
