Spectrum's Comments: Crusaders West was our first attempt to expand the Crusaders Universe to the West Coast. Time wise, this game started around the time when Panther returned from his first absence from Q. At this point in history, he was running Crusaders & Crusaders West, while I was running Crusaders Plus and Lost Heroes. For some reason, perhaps a combination of not enough time or too high Q bills, led Muskateer go give up running Crusaders and Crusaders West. At this point I took over Crusaders and merged it permanently with Crusaders Plus. Crusaders West was simply dropped. Although, about a year later I finally did get a West Coast game up and running with the New Crusaders game. Some of this material was lifted for that game. CWest is significant as this is the first appearance of Sapphire anywhere. The other players are the usual suspects. As far as Crusaders continuity goes, I consider CWest to have never happened. The set up for this game is that new blood joins the Freedom Squad.
Crusaders West #1 - "The Freedom Squad Crisis"
The City of Angels has not been doing a very good job of living up to its name of late. It is already common knowledge that the Protectors, a West Coast based hero team has disappeared. They were last sighted here in Los Angeles.
To make matters worse, the other local team has been having at least as much trouble. All one has to do is read the newspapers lately. They tell the whole story.
The Freedom Squad member called Dimension Man was found dead yesterday on a warehouse rooftop, apparently slain with a dagger. Dimension man's death is the second murder of a Freedom Squad member in the last two weeks. Founding member Hardhat's body was found early last week. The coroner's report stated that he had been beaten and electrocuted.
The Black Phantom, the masked crusader who helped found the Freedom Squad, is still in a coma after surgery on his wounds. He was attacked with a laser like device while on his nightly patrol of our city.
In a press conference this afternoon, American Eagle, leader of the Freedom Squad, issued a nationwide appeal to every hero for assistance in the Squad's investigation of the wave of terrorist attacks on Freedom Squad members.
"This case is going to take the best there is," says the patriotic crimefighter. "We're up against a cool assassin who has no compunction against killing."
The other remaining members of the Freedom Squad are Victrix and Jo-Tan
Assuming that you are each going to respond to this distress call, we can assume that you all arrive at the Freedom Squad's HQ as you post. (Makes it easier, anyway) their HQ is public knowledge and well known, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find.
When you arrive at the front door, a young Japanese man who stands some 9 feet tall greets you. He looks rather impressive. Once you make it known what your reason for being here is, he courteously ushers you in, asking about your preference for tea or other drinkables.
Meanwhile, American Eagle and Victrix make you feel at home.
Before going much farther, I would like each of you to in turn introduce yourselves to the Squad and whoever else has arrived before you, if anyone. Please include a description of your character. As soon as everyone is in, we will get started for real!
American Eagle wears a red, white, and blue costume and has large white wings. His costume is mostly blue, w/ red sleeves and boots and a white eagle on his chest.
Jo-Tan wears an orange costume. He has no mask, just a headband. He has a sleeveless and legless body suit w/ a white belt. He wears black shoes and gloves.
Victrix wears a mostly gold costume w/ red mask and trim. She wears a strapless costume w/ high gloves and boots.
SUBJ: Sapphire
Jo-Tan opens the door to behold a most unusual sight. Before him is a woman. She stands well over six feet tall, but that isn't the unusual part. Her skin is the color of sky itself. Her long, wavy hair is the color of the ocean. She wears a spandex outfit of no particular design. Muscles ripple through out her body.
"Is this the base of the Freedom League?" she asks.
After being let in, she introduces herself.
"I am Sapphire De Cerulean. I have heard of your plea for help. I offer skills as a warrior to you."
Sapphire waits to hear more details of what has happened.
Spectrum's Comments: Saph has changed a little bit over the years. She grew to being 7' tall as opposed to only being six. Power wise, she lost her ability to fly in the main site.
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 06/12/89 t#: 409754
A knock on the door brings an odd sight to behold. Standing in the doorway is a knight in full armor. He stands about 6'4", weighs approx. 250lbs and although he looks about 50 year old he brandishes the longest two-handed sword you have ever seen. He has a cross on his surcoat. Then he speaks, there is a ring of age old wisdom in his voice.
"Greetings lords and lasses. I am Stir Tristan, guardian of the Holy Grail. I have been sent out in this world to spread the word of the Lord and do his bidding. I saw your image on that box that talks and heard your plea for help. I am here to offer any assistance that you may need of me."
Spectrum's Comments: This character was based on the guy guarding the Holy Grail in the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie.
SUBJ: Guardian
Once more the door opens and there is a man standing there. He wears a blue costume with green trim.
"Wow... so this is Los Angeles... Ah, excuse me; you must be that Long guy... Ah, Jo-Tan, well excuse me! I call myself the Guardian and I'm here to help you guys out like ya asked."
As he is being led to the others, the man can be heard mumbling to himself...
"What an odd name... He certainly doesn't look like a tan Joe!"
Upon meeting the others, Guardian is taken aback for a moment. I've heard of being blue, but that gal has gone a little over board. Upon seeing the guy with the longsword, I move over to its wielder.
"I know you! You're that Muskateer guy with the sword! It's a pleasure to meet you sir! Are the rest of the Knights here? I'd like to meet Spectrum, he's been an idol of mine!"
After learning of the mistaken identity, Guardian drops the subject.
"Ah, well... so I was wrong. Got any Pepsi? I just flew in and boy are my arms tired!'
Spectrum's Comments: Just me being goofy and making references to the NY Knights who appeared in Crusaders Plus. Guardian was basically a cyborg.
SUBJ: Stormcrow FROM: Luv1uppie 06/13/89 t#: 519249
This time at the door is a young man standing about 6 foot tall, 180 lbs, blonde hair and blue eyes. He is very handsome and looks like a beach kid. His costume is dark gray jumpsuit.
"Hello my name is Stormcrow. I heard you could use some help. I may be of assistance. I have some special gifts because I'm a genetically created individual of Proto Corporation. I also have some special training in unarmed combat."
Spectrum's Comments: Stormcrow was a teleporting martial artist.
SUBJ: Quarterstaff FROM: N4Sir 06/15/89 t#: 807039
Before the door has a chance to close a gentleman lands on the lawn. He is wearing a red and silver costume holding a black quarterstaff; it seems to glow with power.
"Excuse me, a friend told me of your need for aid and that I may be able to help."
"I hope I am not to late to lend a talent."
Spectrum's Comments: I believe all of Quarterstaff's powers came from his staff. Guess that's where he got the character name from!
Crusaders West #2 - "The Cavalry Arrives!"
The headquarters of the Freedom Squad at this moment now hold 8 heroes. Three of them are members of the Freedom Squad themselves: American Eagle, Victrix, and Jo-Tan. The others are relative newcomers: Sapphire, Stormcrow, Sir Tristan, Quarterstaff, and Guardian. The newcomers are made comfortable and the assembled group discusses the dreadful situation at hand.
American Eagle - "I want to thank each and every one of you for coming to our aid. However, I am not going to make this seem like a walk in the park. This is a very serious situation. By allying yourselves with us, you may very well be targets yourselves. I would not think less of anyone were they to back out."
Sapphire - "We would not be here unless we were aware of that danger.
American Eagle - "Very well. Unfortunately, we have little more information regarding our slain teammates. However, we would like to make each of you provisional Freedom Squaders. You are all welcome to stay here at our base. Jo-Tan will give each of you rooms that wish to accept this offer."
Everyone is given a tour of the headquarters and a chance to go out on patrol with the members, splitting off into various groups. The rest of the day goes by smoothly, until the evening when American Eagle sounds the alarm. Everyone gathers at the meeting room.
Quarterstaff - "Is there some sort of emergency?"
American Eagle - "Yes. We have just been informed of a situation at the Blackgulch Chemical Weapons Storage and Testing Depot.
Victrix - "With the disappearance of the Protectors, we are the only heroes in the city left.
Sapphire - "I look forward to going into battle with all of you."
American Eagle - "If all of you will follow me to our transport, I'll fill you in as we go."
The trip to the Army Depot goes by quickly. An unknown villain has apparently taken control of part of the base. The army has proven ineffectual against the invaders, who literally appeared out of thin air. Needless to say, this is a very touchy situation with all the weapons and chemicals on hand, not to mention dangerous!
The depot itself is underground, with access through an administration building. A barricade of mercenary assistants to the villain has been set up and repulsed the army's efforts.
The heroes are met after they land, by the base commander, who is quite happy to have superhero help.
The commander stresses that this is a very sensitive and dangerous mission, and that the villain must be stopped. This is a top-secret base and there are numerous items here that must not fall into the wrong hands.
The barricade of the agents is set up at the entrance to the depot itself, just before the first vault door to the complex. There is a short 10' long hall to the area open and there is plenty of cover from the various offices beyond that.
As you all might have other questions about the situation, I can update the post through the week to detail anything I may have slovenly skipped over that you may want to know!
Also, if anyone has anything they wish to discuss while still at the Squad's HQ, please feel free to!!
Here are a few miscellaneous notes about the attacks on the Freedom Squaders. All of the attacks were unprovoked and occurred while the heroes were on their regular patrols. So far no one has taken responsibility for the attacks, and the attack forms do not seem to match those of any of their old enemies.
As both of the Squad's detectives have been incapacitated, the remaining three are at a loss to find the assassins. Therefore, they are quite willing to hear any ideas from anyone who shows competence in this area.
Black Phantom is currently under heavy guard at the local hospital. He has not yet recovered from his coma, although his condition is stabilizing.
If anyone has any specific questions, please do not hesitate to ask!
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 06/17/89 S#: 416644
"I say American Eagle, but perhaps I could be of some assistance to Black Phantom. If he is as wounded as you say, maybe the Grail could help him. If you would but direct me to him we could try."
At the chemical plant, "So the villains have hold up in yonder castle. The defenses seem weak. It should be easy to storm this place. By the grace of God these cretins will pay for their crimes here today." Before entering the plant, Sir Tristan will kneel and ask God for wisdom and guidance in this endeavor.
SUBJ: Guardian
"I'll accept your gracious invitation to stay here on your base. My I inquire to what types of labs there are on this base? I am a scientist of some skill.'
During the whole time before the mission, Guardian keeps up his perchance for sprouting one-liners.
After returning from his patrol, Guardian comes to his quarters, after first raiding the fridge. Once there, he removes his mask and tosses it aside. He runs his hands through his brown hair as he spots the phone. He sits down next to the phone. Guardian reaches down and opens a panel in his right leg. A cord with a plug on it emerges. He takes this and plugs it into the wall socket.
Picking the phone up, he proceeds to dial long distance.
"Hi, it's me... I'm fine. Everything's gone well so far... More importantly, how are you doing? ... He did? That's great... Don't worry; I'm going to see if I can find work out here. I think we need a change of scenery... I know it's a big step, but I've got to start to live a normal life again... That's true, Steph, being a superhero is hardly normal... I've got to go, something's come up... Yeah, I love you too... I'll keep in touch.
He hangs up the phone, unplugs the plug and joins the others. Once at the depot, Guardian will take stock of the situation.
"So, how are we going to go about this? We really don't know the capabilities of the others. That could be a problem. I have the capability to phase myself out of normal space. I could use that talent to scout out the situation? So, what's the plan?"
SUBJ: Sapphire
"At last! The time for battle has come my friends!'
The blue lady begins to loosen up. Her bulging muscles threatening to burst through her skintight black spandex.
"I have no need for scouting and stealth. However, if you wish to engage is such pursuits, I shall be more that happy to engage those so foolish as to barricade themselves in yon building. It shall be a glorious battle!"
Upon given the signal to attack, Sapphire will fly forward to engage to villains.
SUBJ: Stormcrow FROM: CORRIN 06/20/89 S#: 521377
After Arriving at the area that is under siege. Stormcrow will look for an area with some cover in the open area that is Being Held. With a Sly grin before anyone can Object
"I will go take a Peek." ::PING::
After Arriving in the Open Area. Stormcrow will look around see if he Can spot the Leader. If so he will Teleport Directly behind Opponent and let fly with a Kick to the Head! If he can't spot a leader he will take out the nearest Opponent. He will have his Forcefield up during Combat.
SUBJ: QUATERSTAFF FROM: N4SIR 06/24/89 S#: 469314
"Ok folks I'll take point and lead us in once inside we can break into teams and do a quick recon of the first level. And at its completion meet back at the vault door and the beginning a grid search."
Quarterstaff seems very sure that his actions will meet group approval and take off towards the door flying (holding the staff in front of him as he flies).
Crusaders West #3 - "The Raid on Blackgulch"
American Eagle and Sir Tristan go to pay a visit to the injured hero, the Black Phantom. Sir Tristan uses his grail to heal the fallen avenger's wounds.
The effect is not immediate, but soon, the Black Phantom emerges from his coma. He is still injured, and will have to remain in the hospital for some time yet. Both heroes thank Tristan for his help however.
The Phantom mentions that a woman in a green and gold costume attacked him. She used some sort of laser weapon built into the costume she wore. She called herself Dr. Photon.
As the assembled heroes begin to make plans, Stormcrow teleports away and Quarterstaff leads the assault on the barricade. Seeing one of her teammates charging, Sapphire eagerly rushes to do combat, as well.
American Eagle - "Well, it looks like the order of the day is attack!"
Victrix - "Indeed. Maybe we should stay back and see what the newcomers can do. Besides, that would give us a chance to step in should things get out of hand."
American Eagle - "Well, we don't know who we're up against, yet. But surely they can handle these agents."
And that is becoming quickly evident in the assault on the barricade.
Stormcrow catches one of the agents completely off guard and strikes. The agent is unconscious almost before he knows what hit him. Quarterstaff leads Sapphire and Sir Tristan down the hall, as Guardian follows. The lead hero's staff absorbs most of the energy beams directed at him, while the blue skinned heroine and the knightly hero simply bounce most of the damage away. It gives Guardian almost a wall to follow behind.
Guardian - "This is almost too easy. Like shooting ducks at the arcade!"
Behind his human barrier Guardian fires. He strikes one agent and the man falls out of sight behind their barricade.
Quarterstaff flies above the agents and fires into them, as Stormcrow launches another attack. Then in a fearsome rush, Sapphire and Tristan smash into the barricade! The desks and cabinets that the agents had piled up are now suddenly smashed and scattered in spectacular explosion of wood and metal. Only two of the agents are left standing after this attack.
American Eagle - "Apparently you were correct, 'Trix."
Victrix - "Aren't I always?"
The remaining opponents are quickly and easily dispatched in much the same fashion as the others.
Guardian - "I hope whoever is responsible for this puts up a better fight than this."
Sapphire - "Well put. I would welcome a real battle."
The two original Squaders walk up from behind.
American Eagle - "You shouldn't have to worry about that, Sapphire. I expect there to be quite a battle before we're finished here."
Sapphire - "Marvelous!!"
Victrix - "You were quite impressive there, Stormcrow. I always admire a sense of adventure in a man."
Stormcrow - "Thank you..."
The heroes are now confronted by the vault like security door.
Guardian - "So what do we do now? Knock?"
Sapphire - "I'll knock! Let us see the mettle of this barrier."
Sapphire pulls back her fist to smash the impeding barrier.
American Eagle - "Hold on a second there! This is a U.S. government building. Top Secret in fact. We should destroy as little as possible."
Sir Tristan - "You have another way to gain entrance to this edifice?"
American Eagle - "As a matter of fact. The commander provided me with a 'key'."
A moment later, and the security door is opened.
Sapphire - "I shall lead the way. I am impervious to their puny weapons."
Guardian - "No arguments from me, Big Blue."
The hall quickly turns to the right. Up ahead, another branch leads off this one to the left. As Sapphire leads the heroes down the hall, suddenly a large blast of energy explodes in her midsection. Sapphire is slammed into the wall with incredible force and appears stunned. [You can still post, Schar. Just have to recover first ;) ]
L L
L $ L
¦@¦ ¦@¦
L L
L L
L L
L L
L ¦@@@@@@@@@¦@¦@@@@@¦
L L L L L
¦@@@@@@¦ L 2 L 3 L
L L ¦@@@@@¦
¦@¦ 1 L ¦@@@@@@@@@¦ L L
L L L L L L
L L L L L 5 L
L L L L L L
L L L L L
L L L 4 L ¦@@@@@¦
¦@@@@¦ L L L
L L L L
L L L L
¦@@@¦ ¦@@@@@@@@@¦ ¦ 6 L
L x L
¦*@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@¦@@@@@¦
* - Vault door just passed through
$ - Apparent source of energy blast
x - Point where Sapphire fell and other heroes are right behind her.
Numbered rooms are for reference right now, should anyone care to investigate or move through these areas. Any questions, let me know, and I'll try to answer during the week.
Enjoy...
SUBJ: QUARTERSTAFF FROM: N4SIR 06/26/89 S#: 83147
"Quickly my friends move sapphire out of the line of fire." Quarterstaff shouts.
"I will take the next hallway and attempt help spearhead a two prong attack," Quarterstaff moves down the next hallway using his danger sense until he gets to the hallway where the shot came from.
SUBJ: Guardian
I'll move out of sight of the sniper. There, I'll set my battle suit into the follow powers:
35- Invisibility vs. IR, UV and Radar.
25- Passive Sonar
30- 15" Flight
After warping light around himself, Guardian will fly forward, up the corridor that the attack came from. He will hug the ceiling until he can reach a point where he can see the sniper and make an attack against him. If he can, Guardian will land right behind the sniper, reappear, and touch the sniper, discharging his NND into the man.
SUBJ: Sapphire
"SMEG!"
Sapphire curses to herself. She examines what little remains of her costume around her tummy. It is ripped to shreds, but the skin doesn't show the slightest trace of damage. The blue warrior rises to her feet, clenching her fist before her.
"Be warned, coward, that you face a Warrior born of the First House!"
Sapphire flies forward, towards the source of her assaulter. Once there, she will proceed to pound him to a pulp...
Spectrum's Comments: Actually, I just added the SMEG to the post, replacing a different Azurian curse. If you get the reference, then you know what she's saying.
SUBJ: Ping!!! FROM: CORRIN 06/27/89 S#: 815108
HMM...
Well I Guess Ill go see what caused that Energy Blast. It might be Part of security system. So with those words he raises his force Field takes a Peek around the Corner. Looks for a spot about two meters inside the open area where the Blast came from.
::PING::
When he appears and he sees someone present he will Attack with a Kick. If no one present he will explore the room after yelling for his Comrades if there's too much for him to handle he will Asses enemy forces and Teleport back to point of origin to Inform his Comrades.
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 06/28/89 S#: 443064
Sir Tristan moves towards Sapphire in order to move her out of battle, but stops short when he sees her rise of her own power. "Madam, are you injured? I would be disgraced if a beautiful maiden such as yourself were injured while I was around." After seeing that she was alright, Tristan turns towards her attacker, "Villain attacking a friend is one thing, but attacking a woman from hiding! Have you no honor left. Come out and show yourself. Face the servant of God if you dare." Sir Tristan will boldly walk right up the corridor holding his shield up to block any shots at him.
Crusaders West #4 - "Raid on Blackgulch Part Two"
Our heroes, spearheaded by the blue skinned warrior known as Sapphire, have just been ambushed in the Blackgulch U.S. Army Chemical Weapons Storage and Testing Depot. Sapphire herself has just been blasted into the wall by an unknown attacker far up the long hall.
Quarterstaff - "Quickly, my friends move Sapphire out of the line of fire!"
Sir Tristan moves toward Sapphire as the woman struggles to her feet.
Sir Tristan - "Madam, are you injured? I would be disgraced if a beautiful woman such as yourself were injured while I was around."
As Sapphire examines her now tattered costume, she swears to herself. The she turns toward her attacker, fist raised before her.
Sapphire - "Be warned, coward. You face a Warrior born of the First House!"
Sir Tristan - "Villain! Attacking a friend is one thing, but attacking a woman from hiding? Have you no honor left? Come out and show yourself. Face the servant of God, if you dare."
However, the only response is another blast of energy. It misses both Sapphire and Tristan however, exploding against the wall behind them.
Meanwhile, Guardian, just out of harm's way around the corner, adjusts his suit's power pack and fades from view.
Sapphire takes to the air following Quarterstaff's lead. Unseen, Guardian follows, also flying, while Tristan strides boldly down the corridor behind his shield.
Meanwhile, Stormcrow once again disappears with an audible PING! He appears a moment later ahead of the rest of the heroes standing in the 10' square room. (Obviously, the map was not quite to scale!) He appears just in front of a barricade constructed from the furniture from nearby rooms. A large barreled gun points out from the barricade. Behind it, four armored men can be seen.
Stormcrow is hit by the gun, before he can completely size up the situation, and sent flying down the corridor. He lands about midpoint, as the other heroes fly forward from the opposite direction. Quarterstaff leads the charge and fires a blast from his staff into the barricade. The entire barricade is blown apart in a spectacular explosion of wood and metal shards. The gun, as well, has been smashed completely, adding to the explosion's force.
The armored agents have been blown against the far wall from the explosion. Guardian moves in, still invisible, and discharges his NND into one of the staggered agents.
Sapphire is quickly upon another and pummels him with her fist. This man bounces off another of the walls before falling flat on his visored face.
The red and silver garbed hero manages to get off another attack before the agents. He hits the closest of the agents with his black staff and there is a discharge of energy. The man crumples to the ground like a puppet whose strings have just been cut. Meanwhile, Sir Tristan has just arrived on the scene and blocks a retaliatory blast from one of the two remaining opponents. Further down the hall, American Eagle and Victrix help the fallen Stormcrow to his feet.
Victrix - "Careful there, 'Crow. It's not always wise to 'port in where angels fear to tread."
The final agent fires a gun and it emits a bright light, blinding Quarterstaff and Guardian. Sapphire aims a blow at the man, but misses, smashing a hole in the wall in the process. Tristan, however, downs the man with the flat of his blade.
Sir Tristan - "Yield, sir knight. You are outnumbered."
The final agent is so disposed however. While Guardian remains invisible, Quarterstaff is an inviting target, despite holding his staff out in front of him. The agent fires and hits Quarterstaff, slamming him against a wall. His force field, however, offers him protection against most of the damage.
Sapphire - "You are clearly without honor!"
The large blue warrior grabs the armored man and in her hands the armor comes apart like a peeled grape. The astounded agent falls away. He sees that he has nowhere to go, however.
Sir Tristan - "Now, will you yield?"
Agent - "Man, I ain't crazy! They aren't paying me enough for this job. Yeah, I surrender."
In moments, Quarterstaff and Guardian's sight returns. Guardian fades back into view as well.
Another vault door confronts the heroes. This one seems heavier than the last, but again American Eagle opens it and the heroes step through. A second lightweight door acts as an airlock.
American Eagle - "We had better close this tight behind us. There's no telling what we may be facing. No point in allowing anything out of here."
To the right is the security room. Three guards lay sprawled about the floor here. The slight trace of a pungent odor is in the air.
Guardian - "Whew! Who let the mutant skunk in here?"
Up ahead, a second airlock door, much like the one just passed through, bars the way. It, too, is easily passed. From here, the corridor continues on. Approximately 75 feet away, the hall ends at three doors: one straight ahead and one on each side. At 45 feet there are a pair of airlock doors facing each other, with another on just the left wall some 25 feet up the corridor.
So, what are you all going to do now? POST AWAY!
SUBJ: Guardian
"Well, it seems to me that we've been dealing with the small fries here. The big shots must be up ahead. I suggest that we proceed with caution."
Guardian checks the power readout on his left wrist. If the power levels are too low, he will try to locate an electrical outlet and recharge himself.
""It might be advantageous for me to take the point this time."
I'll activate my sonar once more and try to detect where the rest of the raiders are. Also switch on my Life Support system. I prefer to breathe clean air, thank you.
I'll also key up Desolidification, but will only use it if necessary. The last 5pts goes to Flight. Preparations complete, I'll fly up the corridor.
SUBJ: Sapphire
"Typical for the cowardly masterminds to throw cannon fodder before us. If the real villains of these take over lie ahead, then let us engage them by all means! I think I might also have a way to gain information with out all your technical skills, Guardian."
Sapphire will grab the villain we have captured and hold him in the air by his ankles.
"Tell me everything you know about your leaders, or I shall drive you through the floor! Talk fast, because I have little patience!"
Sapphire awaits the man's reply...
Spectrum's Comments: Saph just has this way with people...
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 07/05/89 S#: 47248
While Sapphire and Guardian figure out which way to go, Sir Tristan will return to the room where they saw the unconscious guards. He will try and revive them using the Grail if need be. "Hail brave warriors. I am Sir Tristan. My comrades and I are here to wrest this castle from the evil overlord. Come, when you are ready. While you heal you can guard some lackeys that we have captured."
SUBJ: QUARTERSTAFF FROM: N4SIR 07/08/89 S#: 40314
"This section of the playpen seems to reek. How dangerous is yet to be discovered (Forcefield on).
('Staff scan the area for all danger and evil') Mental thought.
Quarterstaff will take to the air flying ahead of the group. Follow the hall till starts branch off then wait till group catches up.
Crusaders West #5 - "Raid on Black Gulch Part Three"
The agents have just been defeated and our heroes have penetrated further still into the chemical store.
Guardian - "Well, it seems to me that we've been dealing with the small fries here. The big shots must be up ahead. I suggest we proceed with caution."
Sapphire - "Typical for the cowardly masterminds to throw cannon fodder before us. If the real villains of this take over lie ahead, then let us engage them!"
American Eagle - "I wouldn't suggest simply crashing in mindlessly, Sapphire. This area is extremely dangerous."
Quarterstaff - "This section of the playpen seems to reek. How dangerous is yet to be discovered."
Guardian adjusts his equipment on his battlesuit.
Guardian - "I can't get anything on sonar. The walls are too tight in here."
Sapphire - "I might have a way to gain information without all of your technical skills, Guardian.
Sapphire grabs one of the agents and holds him in the air by his ankle.
Sapphire - "Tell me everything you know about your leaders or I shall drive you through the floor! Talk fast, because I have little patience."
The man is obviously frightened.
Agent - "I just work for them! They paid us a load o' cash to learn how to use these suits and run interference for them. His name is Phosgene! He wears a red and white costume and stinks real bad. I don't know anything about him; I swear! He had two others with him, too. One guy in an armored suit and some silver chick. That's all I know!"
American Eagle - "Alright, Sapphire, that's enough. Put the man down now."
Stormcrow - "Unless he's lying, we're only facing three more of the bad guys."
American Eagle - "Perhaps. But they will be much tougher to defeat than their lackeys. Are you alright, Victrix?"
Victrix - "I...I think so. I feel like the walls are starting to close in on me. I'll be fine."
Meanwhile, Sir Tristan tends to the fallen guards. They start to slowly revive.
Tristan - "Hail, brave warriors. I am Sir Tristan. My comrades and I are here to wrest this castle from the evil overlord. Come, when you are ready."
The guards begin to recover, but are obviously badly injured, even after the Grail is used to heal them.
Guard - "I don' think we'll be much help against those villains. But we will escort these creeps out of here, and get them out of your hair."
Sir Tristan - "Very well."
Tristan then returns to the rest of the team.
Quarterstaff and American Eagle lead the team up the hall. Quarterstaff's danger sense suddenly goes wild, as the far door on the left opens and two figures step through. As the heroes start to close in, a man in a dark gray, bulky armored suit flings the armful of flasks and jars that he held in his arms. They shatter amongst the heroes, both on the, and the walls and floor.
Dr. Magnus - "Interlopers! I must inform Phosgene that we are under attack. Deal with these fools, Mercuria."
The armored one then slips back through the door that he entered the hall from.
Dr. Magnus attack was quite devastating to the heroes. Stormcrow fell under the splashing chemicals. Victrix dropped unconscious a mere moment later. Also, American Eagle was hurt by some of the chemicals, as well.
In the midst of the heroes, all along the hall, the splashed chemicals are all giving off noxious odors and gas. Everyone, except for Guardian is affected. The fumes burn everyone's lungs.
Dr. Magnus' companion remains in the hall. She is completely silver in color. She moves forward and grabs the weakened American Eagle. After a moment, he goes limp and Mercuria lets the hero fall to the floor, unconscious.
She then turns to the rest of you.
Mercuria - "This should prove to be a most entertaining fight. I just hope that you can give me a descent battle.
SUBJ: Sapphire
'If it is battle that you crave, woman, then Sapphire De Cerulean shall be more than happy to oblige! Stand back comrades! I shall deal with this obstacle, Dr. Magnus is yours!'
Sapphire flies forward and punches the silver woman. Upon seeing Mercuria's touch work on 'Eagle, I won't let her get her hands on me. Even though I am nearly invulnerable, I do not relish finding out what that touch does!
SUBJ: Guardian
"You can have her! I'll take care of Dr. Magnuts, Robot Biter!"
I'll chase the Doc thru the door, hitting him with the AP when he shows his face.
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 07/13/89 S#: 398448
Sir Tristan starts to charge into the midst of battle, but stops short. "No once I thought that there was nothing more glorious than battle, but that was before. Life is more important than the fight. I must help my comrades who have fallen." Sir Tristan will start to drag the others out of the fumes. After he has done this he will render the Grail to any who need it.
SUBJ: ZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzz FROM: CORRIN 07/14/89 S#: 818304
I'll Be Unconscious :(
Crusaders West #6 - "Interlude
The Freedom Squad found themselves in battle against an unknown group of villains who had taken over the BLACKGULCH CHEMICAL WEAPONS DEPOT. American Eagle, Victrix, Sapphire, Guardian, Stormcrow, Sir Tristan, & Quarterstaff went in.
After a few encounters with the villains henchpersons, they were attacked by two of the villains: Dr. Magnus and Mercuria. A number of the heroes fell in the first attack. While they battled, two other heroes were answering the same call the most of the others had answered earlier in the week.
Darkbane and Aerion appeared at the Freedom Squad's HQ and were greeted by Jo-tan. Eventually, they received word that the situation was worse than originally thought and rocketed to the Depot as well.
There was a tremendous battle that eventually resulted in the defeat of the villains, plus the mastermind leader: Phosgene.
After answering some questions for the press and having pictures taken, the team returned to the HQ, a little worse for the wear, but successful nonetheless.
This is basically a recap of the live session. If anyone has anything particular to say to the reporters and cameras, you are more than welcome to add it to your posts.
Okay, if anyone has any ideas to help find the fiends who have been attacking the original Freedom Squad members, then American Eagle would be happy to listen.
He also mentions that the team is scheduled to make an appearance at the Grand Opening of the Underwood Museum in a few days. Everyone who wishes to attend, please let me know. The owner of the museum is a close personal friend of Victrix.
Next, if everyone could please give me a brief rundown of what your characters do if their free time, as well as anything else they might wish to do, especially if you aren't going to the museum.
Finally, if you could mention whether you are going to take a room at the Squad's HQ, or not, it would be appreciated.
I will post some action as soon as everyone is in!
Spectrum's Comments: As mentioned above, the rest of the Raid on Blackgulch scenario was ran live. Muskateer was here in Erie on Vacation at the time and we gathered everyone together on a Saturday afternoon to resolve things live. Obviously, Guardian and Sapphire were only present in spirit. One of us did the typing while the other ran the combat details. It was fun and two new players joined the game. Unfortunately, the above was the last Crusaders West post. Below are some of the player responses.
SUBJ: ** Areion** FROM: AREION 08/06/89 S#: 817159
Areion spends a good portion of his free time in extensive physical training, pushing his body to its limits and honing his swordsmanship skills until they're as sharp as his blade.
When not in the workout room, Areion can be found in his room researching his magic and his lore, sometimes as Areion sometimes in his human form.
Normally in mortal guise, Areion will spend a good deal of time (on the average of an hour or two a day) outdoors, especially at night. (Mike has always felt at home in the darkness)
Every Sunday morning, Areion will disappear for a couple hours, during which time he can be found at a nearby Baptist Church.
Areion will retire to his room until it's time for the trip to the museum. When the others leave, he'll go with them in human form so as not to be conspicuous. Anyone within arms reach can hear him muttering under his breath.
Spectrum's Comments: Areion would reprise is Areion character in New Crusaders and formed the LA Knights.
SUBJ: Guardian
Let's see... For the most part I'll tinker around with my battlesuit, trying to get a few kinks out. I call home at least once a day to see how the missus is doing. Eventually, he'll try to find work out here in his field. In the meantime, he'll be staying on base and will attend the function at the museum
SUBJ: Sir Tristan FROM: REM9 08/07/89 S#: 420116
Sir Tristan will also spend some of his free time in keeping up with his swordsmanship. But the majority of his free time will be helping other institutions that help others (ie the Red Cross, Salvation Army, etc) the best he can. He makes it a point that unless it is impossible to do so, he goes to some chapel (not being to familiar with the area he is not to particular which one) every day for an hours worth of prayer each day. Sir Tristan will gladly accept a room at the base, as he has nowhere else to stay.
As to how to help the Freedom Squad, he now has a description of one of the attackers and he will start asking around to see if anyone knows of her or knows why she would attack the group.
Sir Tristan will go to the museum also.
SUBJ: Sapphire
Since Sapphire is relatively new to this place, I'll spend my time familiarizing myself with this city. The sight of a six-foot, muscle bound woman walking the streets of LA should be interesting to see!
Saph spends most of the morning working out in the gym, lifting weights and honing her battle skills. She'll spend the afternoon's exploring/patrolling the city.
Sapphire has no set costume; she merely wears a variety of spandex exercise wear.
GM: Are there any other heroes in LA? Since I'm an outsider, I wouldn't be able to tell hero from villain, and don't which to beat up the wrong side!
SUBJ: Stormcrow..... (R) FROM: CORRIN 08/12/89 S#: 95694
Stormcrow will Spend Most of his Time and Nights Taking Care of his Old Teacher. He never goes directly to the Apartment. To keep its Location a secret he will come in from different directions and Just teleport into it. When he is at the Mansion he will spend Much time Practicing his Martial arts and Studying in the Library. As for trying to capture these villains. Why don't we send members on routine Patrols with the rest of us nearby in concealment when the one Member is attacked we rush in and Capture one of the Assailants???
SUBJ: QUARTERSTAFF FROM: N4SIR 08/12/89 S#: 95871
I will maintain a small room at the HQ however I would still like to maintain a separate apt on the outside. My free time is spent refining my MA and use of the staff. I will also hit the Computer room and begin going over hero and villain files acquainting myself with everyone I may come in contact with.
SUBJ: Darkbane FROM: Kityana 08/14/89 S#: 437799
Well...I'll take a room at the HQ.. Spend some time reading.. Watch the others practice thier fighting ( you cana always learn something new :D) and I do want to go to the museum with the others. And also, I think I'll annoy Sir Trist by asking him questions here and there referring to the legends and such..:)
Spectrum's Comments: And that's all there was!