(OOC: *eyes bug out at amazing amount of postiness* Pfft and you said NEers were slow Matt?!
Any idea what I should do with Green next team members? I'm guessing keep quietly walking and perhaps plan some strategy but I'm not sure where the Silver thing is going so some direction would be nice *realises she sounds incompetant*)
Tess felt her spirits lift dramatically despite her inability to talk to nature itself as those azure eyes focused on her and a tender tone reassured her. "You may not hear their words, but they always hear yours." The half-faerie didn't respond but she felt a warm sensitive smile appearing on her face in response to Scott's comment. He might not know it but it had its effect on her not only as a reassuring power but also as a testament to the great friend she had found in Scott and to the stronger connection with nature Tess was forming in his prescence.
Ben was making a comment to May about her upcoming capture of Dawn and Lexi nodded as he suggested she mark Dawn's vital organ and take her out of the running. It wasn't as if the thought hadn't occured to Lexi but she was still new to the details and so used to working from orders and her own mind that she hadn't thought to mention the idea aloud. In fact Lexi had simply taken for granted that her team members would figure it out for themselves and really she was the leader and this was most certainly a democracy but some things were for them to act upon or to not. That thought reassured Lexi that she hadn't been wrong or at least so wrong in not mentionning the marking of organs.
With an indication from Ben which seemed to indicate that he was ready to leave Lexi carefully started out. Despite Scott asking nature to cover their tracks Lexi was careful to tread lightly, not wanting to take any help they recieved for granted or willing to make the job of covering up for them any harder than it had to be whatever the capabilities of the plants. As she lead the members of the group coming at that point in time out to the edge of the clearing where they could better remain hidden from view Lexi thought to herself that the detail of Ben would one day come in handy and that surely with time and practice he would make an excellent if meticulous team leader.
Now out of sight Lexi carefully willed her powers to work, enhancing her hearing so that she was able to hear anything that might go on in the clearing which was now far enough away to be out of easy ear range. She was careful not to go too far though, knowing that later if it came to a fight her powers might be needed to disadvantage whatever opposite team they might face. While Lexi was listening to the clearing closely Tess was wishing desperately that she was better able to see what was occuring. She wished that she were able to see Scott better and to know how exactly he was going about this strange task of talking with nature, especially since all she had done was ever talk with animals. Not that ridding on the backs of wild rabbits had ever been anything but rewarding and fun and she certainly wasn't complainning.
It was only a few minutes before Dawn came upon them yet it seemed like much longer to the carefully concealed Lexi who was listening in. At first her enchanced hearing picked up no words but some evidence that a scuffle was taking place but at May's voice saying "Stab. You’re dead." Lexi knew it was over and that their plan had worked. She let her hearing return to normal and rose form the crouching position she had previously been in with a somewhat proud smile. Lexi wasn't one to gloat but she was proud that they had managed to remove one person of another team from the playing field and that they had done it with planning and care.
Tessa, for her part, was glad to see Scott back and alright and May too although she had never gotten over her dislike of spiders and spider abilities sadly didn't help her view of a person. Even still she didn't fear May that much, just felt a little intimidated at times and since the girl had just taken out a member of one of the opposing teams the least she could do was give her a chance. Scott was looking tired and Tessa, who had been unable to witness the chase from the spot she had chosen, wondered what she had missed and what had happened. The violet-eyed girl made a mental note to ask Scott at a time more appropriate since she was very curious about how he had gotten the plants to cover their tracks anyway.
It was time to move on and to get out of the area Lexi thought to herself. With May and a somewhat tired looking Scott back with the group and Michael getting ready to stay behind with Dawn she started to move out with quiet nimbleness. They couldn't afford to be slow but they also couldn't afford to be anything but careful about their tracks and their noise. Feeling reassured with Michael staying behind the slightly more confident leader treked onwards, getting away from the clearing as best she could so that the other team would hopefully not find them.
~~~
Drian had not been particularly enthused about walking through the forest alone setting traps. It wasn't his way of fighting, he who was used to real battles of life and death where every move had a consequence that was more than a word of praise or a slap on the wrist. His battles had been far more important than these games and the alternate universe rebel was far from impressed. Even still he had been called a rebel only because he had dared to go against the general rule in his world, that of the vampires. His status was one different from those dubbed 'rebels' in this universe where that meant simply to go against the norm in fashion or action. He was willing to fall into this new duty of his, it would just take time to adjust and at the moment it was time he didn't have.
There was also the fact that he wasn't with Aisha at the moment. It wasn't that he doubted her skills for with her powers she was probably more capable of he of defending herself by mutant means. Even still he missed her reliable company. When they had first met he had been the mentor guiding a teen girl into a new life. Now it was she who was guiding him and attempting to have him accepted into this new world. His chain of thought was interrupted by a co-ordinate direction given by Rogue. Drian tried to remember his own co-ordinates and in doing so found the position was not his. He wondered who had the possibility of action here since at this point in time something interesting would have been quite the blessing indeed.
A second code specified where he was suposed to get to and Drian silently nodded, starting to make his way towards that position. A command to confirm came through and Drian replied quietly, an affirmation that he was there and okay. Despite knowing she could take care of herself he still breathed a sigh of relief when Aisha's voice came through over the intercom system. "Hunter’s become the Prey, gather a’four, hide’n wait for meh!” came through a few minutes later and Drian raised one dark eyebrow before starting a quicker, although still carefully mindful, path towards the aforementionned area.
The team seemed to have been gathering fairly quickly at least and he reached the spot with Aisha arriving slightly before him and Kalan somewhat after. So there was some sort of a situation but what exactly had happened and what would happen next? That seemed to be the question on the minds of most of the team judging from the group of curious faces which also held expressions ranging from slight nervousness to excitement.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)”Confirm.Dawn, confirm.” Michael heard the voice come over Dawn’s com badge No doubt her team leader checking up on the whereabouts of her members.*Well at least now they’ll come looking for her* he thought to himself, watching over the girl as he had promised, in no doubt that despite his best efforts her position wasn’t exactly wildly comfortable. *The sooner the better as far as she’s concerned, though it would be better for Green Strike if they took their time.*
That obviously wasn’t going to happen. The com badge had hardly fallen silent when faint blur of movement caught his eye. Under normal circumstances he would have probably thought it was just a bird shaking the leaves of one of the trees but since frequenting Scott,’ normal’ natural happenings took on a whole other aspect. There were so many possibilities, the most likely of which was that this was one of the ‘enemy’ team approaching. But it could be something else, something that could pose a threat not only to him but also to the girl he had promised to protect.* It can’t hurt to have a look. It might even proved useful in the long run.* he thought and moved silently towards where the movement had come from.
He moved with a caution he didn’t need yet couldn’t stop, nervous even though he knew he should have been undetectable As he got closer to spot he saw that his instincts had been right. It was no bird that had caught his attention but a member of Dawns team, probably the leader by the looks of things.This was obviously not some student. The person who stood before him was older, beautiful and sleek but not a girl. This was very much a woman and one whose confidences and experience was apparent.
”Hunter’s become the Prey, gather a’four, hide’n wait for meh!” Her words caused a little surge of pride to run through Michaels mind. 'Hunter’s become the Prey,' *We did manage that didn’t we* he thought happily. *Surely that must count for something when it comes to the marking.*
He wanted the team to do well, even if they didn’t win. It would be enough if at the end of the session Lexi looked proud to be their leader. That would make them all feel good, he was convinced of that. Michael felt they were working well together, really well under the circumstances. After all a few hours ago they didn’t even know each other never mind understand each others powers and potential; Yet when the plan had needed to be implemented each one had played their part, doing what needed to be done without fuss and with surprising efficiency.
*Only hope we can keep it up* he thought. *This looks like a tough team we’ve come up against if their leader is anything to go by. We’ll have to keep sharp if we’re going to get away from them. And talking of getting away… *
Satisfied that Dawn was in good hands, still he hesitated a little before leaving, toying with the possibility of waiting around to see what the other team members looked like and maybe listening into their plans. Finally he decided against it. If he got into any trouble he could delay Green Strike force and he had told Lexi he wouldn’t do that And besides; although Dawn was officially ‘dead’ and dead man don’t tell tales as the saying went yet it wouldn’t take much of an oversight on her part to mention the fact that an invisible Robin Hood wannabee was still in the vicinity.
No this time he decided that discretion was the better part of valour, setting rapidly out after the others, taking the most direct route to his body as only a immaterial being could , not choosing the more violent option of snapping directly back into his physical shell but rather savouring the sensation of swiftness as long as he could before the inevitable recall to reality.
It seemed he was fast enough however catching up with his team mates even before they got back to the clearing. Rematerialising to give his report he hurried up to the cautiously advancing Lexi and quietly told her what he had seen
“Dawns fine” he said "Her team leader turned up in double quick time. A woman,southern accent very distinctive hair. Two white streaks here and here”he indicated with his hands. “Ring any bells??”
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
ooc: Alright, apparently I misread some posts, Michael didn't make things easy for Talia, damn scottish! Just because he's spunky doesn't mean he gets away with this! *gets around to editing the post*
Attempting to hear the thoughts of Talia’s team mates enabled other thoughts from others in similar proximity to be heard, the constant whispers of nonsense jumbled in the background of the telepath’s mind. As a result Talia shut her mind away again, she would try and locate the enemy in her area if her mind could pick them up but Rogue had called them towards the meeting area and so Talia didn’t have to endure the mindless babble which always induced a headache from all the concentration needed just to ignore the whispers.
Admittedly Talia had accidentally had some of Rogue’s thoughts slip into her own mind, vague and incomplete, but the basic theme of them was easily understood. It brought the blue furred social outcast to thoughts of the long disappeared Judas. To say she had withdrawn into the confines of the med lab even more after he upped and left wouldn’t be so far off if she hadn’t already been spending so much time there already. At least Talia had started trying to give social outings a try… at least she had tried for someone, and the first time she goes to a dance after all the attention he had offered her, the feral feline leaves without warning. But at the time Talia thought he might have maybe…liked her… well he had flirted with her, it was obvious he did try to gain her attention, but why would he bother if he was just going to leave so soon afterwards?
Talia had been a little naive and her mind withdrawn when Ben was around her, but she did notice the stare and put it down as a look of curiosity towards someone who was so ‘different’. Like with all previous encounters the young mutant pushed thoughts of that nature aside, and yet still they endlessly plagued her in distant sinister form of some sort of paranoia. The only look of interest she’d receive is one of shock, disbelief or misunderstanding on what she really was, and so far it isn’t like she’s been wrong in her assessments of other people’s interactions towards her.
Though leaving Germany didn’t seem such a mistake anymore… the telepath really was finding her place in the school, even if it was in solitude within the medical lab. At least there was Paige now and then, though that wasn’t exactly a perfect relationship since both girls were shy and withdrawn in their own ways. And her time with Beast helped ease her into the social life slightly, mainly it was the patients though… the few ones who didn’t know about her issues, the ones who didn’t realize how strange and rare it was for her to speak. The only times Talia ever spoke for certain in the recent month were the phone calls, she’s had to call three parents and the first time she called them she’d been so nervous and so shy that her soft, slow and quiet words only helped to cause a panic in the parents. After that Talia forced herself to try and be more assertive on the phone, more like Beast was; more formal and more sure of himself. Incisive and sympathetic when the situation called for it. Just like she had to become.
Admittedly only a minuscule amount of patients had been in a state to need comforting words for her, something the girl cherished with her fear of…well, Talia wasn’t exactly sure what she feared about speaking. The shape shifting mutant thought she knew, but… now she wasn’t sure. Michael had been the most recent person to hear her words, and the first for months before that, sometimes Tal was amazed that she even remembered how to verbally speak. The insecurities of being touched had effected her greatly in the early months of being an assistant to McCoy in the previous year, but recently Talia’s compulsions towards a few things had eased somewhat, at least enough for her to work without having it effect her to the same degrees. Bathing people was something the young Wagner NEVER thought she’d be doing, but Beast had requested she help in that department with three of their patients, two had been girls around her age, possibly younger, whereas Michael… Well… it’s not like she hadn’t seen anything before, but there was a different between helping a number of disabled students get dressed and helping scrub them – the telepath was definitely glade for once of the blue fur which hid her slightly blushed cheeks at one point.
At least Michael was not in the state to complain, unlike one of the other disabled girls who’s sole pleasure was making the bath one of the most painful moments in Talia’s life, even down to insults and esteem crushing comments. It hadn’t been easy because Michael was not able to even help by moving even in the slightest, leaving Talia to do all the work and more, well… perhaps it was best, she was certain he would have picked up on her uneasiness at more then a few moments that threatened to hinder her professional stature and he probably wouldn’t have enjoyed their moments together either.
Playing a nurse was what came naturally to Talia it was being discovered, when in the medical room and wearing her attire and in charge of someone, she would become different, more… free. More easily able to be herself, going about what needed to be done, tolerating the worst thrown at her and supporting those who needed comfort. In the medical bay she was everything she’d ever want to be… out side all Talia was to most was the odd looking mutant that was too awkwardly shy to be around for long. The school was still new to Talia, and she hadn’t exactly arrived on the best terms, but her shyness kept her from socializing and meeting new faces, and her previous way of solitude from the life which had proven too painful for her to even attempt mingling in any more hadn’t helped her settling into a suddenly over crowded and lively place.
A flick of the long delicate tail whipped about behind Talia’s form as she walked, slender feet bare, deformed like her hands, lifting the slender young woman slightly as she walked with an almost feline grace along the earthy path on the front of her feet with the heels lifted to some extent from the ground. Appearing into the area with the others there waiting already, Talia quietly waited without taking much more then a glance around to notice Dawn was missing still. It felt strange to be on a team, sure Talia liked the idea of trying to prove herself, but the idea of fighting was not something she was comfortable with. And yet the eagerness to prove herself to her father and the others around her pushed the telepath to continue the battle against her own protective and caring nature to keep up with these other competent fighters who were willing to do what they felt was necessary to accomplish their goals. Quietly Talia ducked and remain hidden, at least well enough for her blue fur to allow.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
By the smile on Lexi’s face as she rose from her hidden position Ben deduced that the deed was done. He really wished that he had been there to witness it but then again he could always get Michael to describe it to him. Besides it was probably better for him that Dawn never find out he had anything to do with her capture or he would never hear the end of it.
They waited in silence for only a couple of minutes for the others to catch up with them. But to Ben these minutes seemed to stretch forever, he was keen on getting moving again because he knew that the other team could not be that far behind. Scott appeared shortly and he looked like he had just flown a 500 metre sprint. That is if you could sprint while you fly.
But the more worrying thing was that if this was the amount of energy it took Scott to cover their trails they would have to use his powers sparingly so as not to exhaust him. May seemed to appear out of nowhere from behind him, he was fascinated by the fact he had not heard her coming. He could not keep the admiration from his face as she dropped gracefully to the ground; he had always thought that moving from tree to tree would be a relatively awkward and noisy form of transport but after having been kept up on by May he had to admit that he was very wrong indeed.
Lexi signalled them to move of back towards Michael’s body… which could prove to be a problem. He was aware of the fact that Hood only had a two mile radius and after that he would fade, which in the case of a fight could be a great disadvantage. They had to face up to the fact that they only really had to offensive members in their group and the removal of one of them would be like losing a leg.
But then again if they got caught while carrying Michael’s limp body it could only hinder them greatly. They would spend the entirety of the fight, if there was one, trying to protect it. Ben had to admit that this was one hell of a dilemma, one with no apparent solution. Both options had there draw backs and in the end he would go with whatever Lexi decided. It was in times like these when he was happy not to be the one in charge.
To make things worse Michael then appeared with news about the other team.
“Dawns fine, Her team leader turned up in double quick time. A woman, southern accent very distinctive hair. Two white streaks here and here”
Ben had never officially met Rogue but he had heard of her somewhat. She was one of the original X-men, which just made their task not only difficult but now near enough impossible. He did not want to look at Lexi because he feared that her face may be a picture of dismay at the news. This was all she needed… she had been unconfident before but now she would have to face an “enemy” that had seen more fights and missions that she could imagine.
Well he feared that this was going to be the part to make or break her as a leader and all he could do as a team member is give her his all. They would have to pull together in an incredible way in order to escape from this situation. And he had to admit that he was mightily glad of Dawns foolishness because at least now they did not have to worry about her as well.
Because he could not bear to look at Lexi he instead sought out May’s gaze, she knew what she was doing and would be an invaluable asset. His look was full of determination, one that suggested that they could not afford to fail at the task ahead. This may only be a training mission, but in the end if they did not take things seriously now when would they? Edited by: catfood74 at: 2/18/05 2:08 am
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
While listening to the others, who for the most part were rather quiet but still May kept herself attuned with them. No matter how detached the otherworldly mutant may be at times, she rarely every completely ignored her team. Admittedly the spider empowered mutant was rather confused by Scott’s previous activities, granted she noted there was something he wasn’t enthused about doing before he began his aerial display, but she couldn’t quite figure out what the whole point of it was. He didn’t seem to have been showing off since he didn’t radiate the smug delight or hover around waiting for applause. Then again, who was she to judge a fairies personal behaviour or psychology?
Leaving her thoughts towards the winged male and looking over towards Lexi as Michael appeared. Everyone of the main X-men, Wolverine, Rogue, Cyclops, most of them May knew more then just their names, a brief knowledge of their powers and abilities. It sort of came with the job of a crime fighter, knowing your allies. But she knew some more then others, like Wolverine. People who her father had contact with, especially baring some of his memories which lingered inside Sin’s mind, the symbiont’s past thoughts often become clearer when jolted by a name or place, smell or sound. The mask slowly peeled away from May’s face as thoughts flooded her mind in a delicate race of possible thoughts. The youngest Ms Parker was used to running solo and thinking on her feet, so the young woman had to catch herself from planning her own battle plan against this formidable enemy.
Ben’s eyes had turned towards May, the hazel gaze of her woman drawn over to his in wonderings over why he was staring at her. Not that she wasn’t used to being staring at, wearing the sort of eerie uniform she had tended to bring a few stares, especially in the dark. There was an expression that May knew well though, one of determination, one that told her this was important, that this was something they were trying for. She hadn’t been nicknamed Mayday for no reason, she’ll go to extremes if she felt that was what was needed.
Sin was the strongest. This was no bragging, no arrogant smug claim. No ifs, no buts. The joined duo were separately the strongest and together the newly named Sin was blessed with impeccable strength. But was May able to go up against the X-men dubbed a one woman army?
It’s been so long since May has won anything… so much has been lost that it seems there’s nothing worth winning anymore. But how would Lexi do this? If they stood and fight Lexi, as a leader, would need to make decisions. Sometimes the only moment you know you’re a capable leader is when you are willing to send someone to do something that… sometimes one person’s life was all that stood between a team’s survival or their deaths. Not that this was a life or death, but May was concerned over the level of ability Lexi had to make a choice that would put one of her team mates in danger. Sending anyone up against someone as powerful as Rogue was nearly suicidal if they wanted to battle her as a real enemy out in the field.
May knew a way… a risky way, perhaps there was a better way but May tended to have to stick with the first option which came to her because usually she didn’t have time to second guess herself. If Lexi dimmed all of Rogue’s senses… if Lexi did that and ordered May to go up against the woman, who knows, maybe May was underestimating Rogue’s powers, but out of anyone on this team May stood a better chance of standing up against Rogue without being tossed about like a stuffed rag doll. The urgency to state this plan, the need to let Lexi know that May was willing to go up against someone like that and the assurance she had towards it giving them a chance was so strong that May yearned to bring it forth to Lexi’s attention. But this was an important moment… what if May’s opinion only caused insecurities within Lexi, the young leader hadn’t taken Ben’s earlier comments with a great deal of grace.
May’s hazel eyes basically burned into Lexi, her mind fighting the options set out before her, perhaps Lexi will have a similar idea, perhaps they will make up a better one… maybe now was the moment to bite their tongues and see what the hell this woman had to offer. She was made a leader for a reason, let her finally stop second guessing herself, let her decide something and let them do their damn best to follow that plan. Sometimes making mistakes was the only way a person could grow.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)(OOC: Ok people, I’ve been sort of awake for 5 hours now and this is the first time at the comp, I guess you can gather what that’s telling about my condition. Didn’t read all posts from Green assuming they didn’t directly concern Silver, so please tell me if I missed out on something…and Angie, gotta NPC your charries a bit to get things moving. Procedure as usual. Alright… here it goes *tries to get his brain think tactically* Feel free to continue as you think it's right.
Oh and Lady, it’s only Green that’s so fast XD)
The X-Man known as Rogue had always found it a bit hard to differentiate between a real and a training combat situation. That didn’t mean she would hit others with full strength, possibly kill them, no, this rather concerned her motivation. A part of her was very well aware of the fact that losing here didn’t mean anything really, yet another, a stronger one, wasn’t willing to accept defeat just like that. If this has been real, Dawn would have been lost – a horrible thought for the southern belle.
Fair enough, she had never been the greatest when it came to strategies but a mistake as fundamental as this shouldn’t have had occurred. With their small numbers, splitting up sure helped to cover the largest area but it also made them vulnerable, didn’t it? Now, there was no point in drowning in self-reproaches, no time for it either. Chances were low but maybe the other team had forgotten to mark the girl and even if not, they couldn’t let her lie there all tied up if getting her out with no harm done so easily.
As everybody had arrived, taking cover as stealthily as they could, there was an ephemeral feeling of pride in the absorption mutant. Sure, they hadn’t had time for hours and hours of training like X-Force and thus it most-probably didn’t have anything to do with her, really, but seeing how smoothly her commands were followed was still rather uplifting. Quietly beckoning everyone to a large oak tree behind which they could all easily find cover, Rogue gathered her team trying to think of the best way to proceed.
”They got Dawn. Seems like it’s Green, thought ah had recognised May’s webs. Talia,” Green eyes turned towards the elfish mutant. ”Quickly get her out, will ya? She’s at the edge of the clearing tha’s part of her area. Gotta check whether she’s been tagged. Then it’s time for some counter strike… we still got some nice traps waitin’ for’em”
When the young Wagner returned with Dawn, it didn’t take long for them to discover the mark clearly labelling the witch in training as defeated. Suppressing the curse lingering on her lips, Rogue freed the girl of her sticky prison, for the first time wondering how they were to stand a chance against another team. Two of their members were out and the fact that one of them had had to leave even before things had really started wasn’t very likely to calm her either. It took a few moments for Rogue to realise that her frustration may as well be mistaken for something directed at the team as she tossed the torn spider webs away into the bushes.
”Alright, this plan failed,” she stated the obvious with a sigh, yet soon enough a small smile appeared on her features again, white fringes being pushed back behind her ears as her eyes wandered from one to another. ”but we still got a chance! The best bet, bein’ outnumbered an’ all, should be to chase’em to those snares. If that’s failin’ too, we can always fight. Ah gonna hold back a bit for fairness’ sake so you’ve gotta rely on each other.” Once again, her gaze met Nocturne’s, a slightly apologetic expression in her eyes. She really was demanding a lot of the introverted girl but maybe, just maybe, this heavy reliance would give her the well-needed boost of confidence.
”Ah’ll need you to mark as many as you can. With two out gotta use what advantages we got.” With a nod, Rogue signalled the beginning of part three. Despite her attempts of a pep talk, the southern belle was anything but certain about their chances but it wasn’t as if there was really really something to lose. Following Talia’s directions as of where the others were positioned, she still couldn’t manage to silent this competitive spirit inside of her. If nothing else, they at least have to give their best.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
(OOC: Really didn't know where to take it so sorry if this isn't very good etc. and I tried to make a decision for her but since I'm not positive about the limits/reaches of Ben's powers I didn't specify. Hope this is okay all.)
Michael's return to the team was quick, an assurance to Lexi that she had done the right thing in letting him stay to make sure Dawn was okay before coming back to them. The first words out of his mouth eased the tension she felt slightly for the redhead was glad that Dawn was alright. On the otherhand that also surely meant that she had been discovered and that one of the teams couldn't be far behind them. Sure enough the next words from Michael's mouth brought the tension back twofold and with that her mouth drew into a thin stern looking line.
"A woman,southern accent very distinctive hair. Two white streaks here and here,” Lexi watched as Michael indicated with his fingers where the hair streaks had been and that only confirmed her suspicians. She knew of only one mutant at the school who had white streaks in her hair and a southern accent so the placement of the streaks wasn't even needed but it did make for a quick yet thorough report. Michael was glancing at her and she knew he must be as curious as the rest of the team as to just who it was they were facing as he asked, “Ring any bells?”
It rang more than bells. It was sirens and a parade of brass instruments the warnings going off in her head so loudly. Maybe it was a sign of her slowly growing confidence despite Lexi still having obvious doubt in her leadership skills that Lexi didn't appear overly dismayed by the news. Instead she appeared determined because she knew that for a new team they weren't doing such a shabby job regardless of her leadership qualities. She was far from confident and especially overconfidence and yet a certain part of Lexi was feeling stubbornly determined to at least give it as good a shot as they possibly could. What did they have to lose?
Lexi was a teacher now but she was still accustomed to being the good girl and the student who was well prepared so she had briefly looked over the teams. Silver was a team lead by an experienced leader and that made things far more difficult than she had anticipated but sometimes the redhead had a different reaction to things than the expectation and instead of getting scared and pessimistic she was determined to get mad and give it a go, however doomed they may have been in any sort of a confrontation that might occur. It would be a tough fight though, no walk in the palk or even a struggle in the park as she had hoped. What Lexi knew she did have, even if her leadership abilities proved to be below par, was absolute confidence in her team. It was rather a strange twist of things actually that she would believe so fully in the abilities of a group of people she had barely known and not in herself but the world is full of strange occurances and this was merely another to add to the list.
Another reason for her not having yet fallen apart was perhaps a feeling of momentary determination. She had to hold herself together, to hold her team together in order to move onwards and to navigate through a situation and that Lexi might be possible of. She wasn't half so sure of herself once it actually came to battle though. Despite her sense abilities which were none to shabby and handy in a confrontation a part of Lexi knew that Rogue was a stronger and more experienced X-man probably than the rest of them put together. She wondered briefly as plans of action raced through her head if dimming Rogue's tough would dim her powers but the hazel-eyed woman knew little of how Rogue's powers actually worked aside from their general effects and the touch aspect which she was familiar with.
Whatever came there was a choice to be made and whether it was wrong or right was not as important as the actual making of a choice. If she failed to make any sort of suggestion or plan that would be far worse than making a wrong plan. So far Lexi had relied partially on a democratic process but this was the time where the leader had to make themselves known. It occured to the redhead that since Rogue had lost a member of her team while the team were seperate they might very well stay together now, strength in numbers after all. That made the decision more difficult since Rogue by herself was difficult let alone having to worry about her and every member of Silver Strike Force.
Since not everyone would have recognised Rogue and her team from the description Lexi said it aloud, her tone flat and low with none of the enthusiasm or humour that often marked it. "It's Silver Strike Force led by Rogue so we must be on our guard."
Glancing around at everyone Lexi spoke quicky and quietly, wanting to get on with it and to get moving once again as soon as was possible. "I'm not going to give a pep talk but we've marked one member out and we're going strong. Rogue is experienced and she'll be tough but we have to give our all because that's what she'll demand of her team." The sense mutant paused briefly before continuing. "Rogue is the main force here. I don't know just how her powers operate specifically so I don't know if completely numbing her touch will effect her powers or the way she uses them, at the very least it might throw her off and blinding particularly could be useful since she can't very well tag anyone unless she can see them."
Lexi took a step forward. "We have a dilemna about which way to go," she stated bluntly. "Towards Michael's body since we'll need it anyway for a fight or away from it although we risk a run out in battle. That's not a decision I want to make but it's a choice of a leader I supose," here some of the insecurity crept back into her voice. "Speak up if you have a better plan but we should try and get to Michael's body so that we can continue onwards towards our destination if not found by Silver but if Silver comes close then we have to make sure they don't find him so that he can't be marked. Ben and I are limited to the ground so if it comes to a fight it will be difficult for us to escape whereas Tess, Scott, May and Michael can if neccessary get away. Tessa, Scott any animal distractions during a confrontation would be ideal even if it only detracts attention for a moment," Lexi said in a semi-commanding tone. "May you have strength and we're going to need it. Everyone we have to be on our guard. They lost one member to seperating which means they'll stay safe as a group now. We need to carry on so we're going to walk but if anyone has anything valid to offer or sees a flaw speak now or forever hold your peace." With that the leader finished and picked up her pace, still remaining cautious and on the look out since she was sure from her experience as a student on a training mission a few years ago that the hunter teams recieved traps, one of which had already snagged Tess and they couldn't afford to lose anyone permanently now.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
So it seemed Lexi knew this Rogue woman and from what she said it sounded like she was a force to be reckoned with. Michael listened to his team leader suggest various ways to deal with the threat she posed but he had to admit he was still pretty much in the dark as to what Rogue’s powers really consisted of. *Ill just have to ask one of the others* he decided. *After all they’ve been at the school for a while They’re bound to know more about the other residents than I do. Which wont be difficult* he admitted with a sigh since I know next to nothing.
He concentrated on Lexis next words, striving hard to look unconcerned as he heard her try to come to grips with the inevitable problem that his strange duality raised for the team. It was a fact that having to go back to retrieve his body and then having to carry it around would slow and inconvenience them, but there was no getting past it. He had told them straight from the start how things would be and they had all accepted it. There was no point going into a guilt binge every time the subject came up even if it was hard not to.
But after all that was the whole purpose of this training mission wasn’t it. To find out where the problems would arise and hopefully find a way to deal with them. And if they couldn’t, if he proved to be too great a liability to the team then it was better they discovered that too at the start. Before he got anyone hurt. Before he got too involved in the whole idea of being a part of Green Strike Force. *Thought I think it might be too late for that* he admitted to himself. *God I will hate it if I have to step aside. But I will do if that’s what’s best for the team Lets just hope it doesn’t come to that*
For the moment though Lexi was putting forward a plan that included him not only as a problem but also as a player and for that he was grateful. Indeed she was seeking to use to advantage the strengths of each member of her group setting out her orders clearly and succinctly, her voice confident as she distributed their roles. He wondered if she would want him to scout ahead and was about to suggest this when another thought crossed his mind, bringing him back to his original idea. Better to find out a little more about this Silver Strike force before he went charging off into the unknown.
Looking around he saw May walking cautiously nearby and moved towards her, sure that if anyone in the team knew how to assess an enemies potential it would be her. Keeping his voice low he said ” May, I’m a bit in the dark over this whole Rogue, Silver Strike Force thing, being new at the school and everything. I mean Lexi talked about trying to neutralise Rogues powers but I’ve no idea what she can do. I figure I’d be more useful if I did. You couldn’t fill me in could you?”
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)"It's Silver Strike Force led by Rogue so we must be on our guard."
Ben turned towards Lexi as she spoke, and was pleasantly surprised. Her statement was not tinted by the nervousness that he had expected and dreaded. Instead it was rather dispassionate, he smiled it was not the assertive determination of an experienced leader but she had proved that when it came down to it she knew that she must get on with things.
As she continued with her speech Ben saw in her eyes the same thoughts he’s been having. How to remove Rogue… at any other time he would of laughed at the mere idea of it. Any sane person could see that they were no match for her or at least for what her reputation told him of her. But this was a “non dangerous” situation and they had been doing so well so the option of chickening out was not an option. In the end it seemed to him that their best bet was to run for it and hope that Silver did not catch them.
On top of the fact that they had Rogue to deal with they still had no idea who made up the rest of Silver Strike Force. All they had managed to work out was that Dawn was a part of it but now she was out anyway so they were no further forward. He sighed; if it came to a confrontation they were going to have rely mainly on brains and luck. Talking of luck if Lauren was on the other team they were going to have problems but in the end all they seemed to be able to do in this situation was take it as it came.
By the sound of things their leader had made a decision and it was to come back the way they had come and get Michael’s body. He did not think May would be particularly impeded by it but in the case of a fight they would have to find a way of protecting it. He did not believe that they would be able to hide it fast enough to keep it out of sight but in the end his powers were mainly defensive. So in the end when it came to protection it was his job and he intended to do it well.
The fact Lexi brought up next was something he could not ignore, the two of them were the problem in their escape plan. They would slow the others down considerably and in the end if they got caught it would probably be their fault. He had never wanted to be able to fly or anything like that but right now it would have been mighty handy.
He listened as Lexi went though the most obvious ways each of them could use their powers in order to gain advantage in a fight; and was not surprised to find that he was not mentioned. In a strange kind of way he was the wild card of the team because of his power. It was not as clear cut as the rest of them, his ability to make things out of darklight and use it to blind people tended to offer him spur of the moment ideas as to how to use it. He just had to hope that the rest of them could think as fast as he could.
When Lexi had finished she looked around the group waiting to see if they had any better ideas or objections to the plan. And for once he kept his mouth and brain shut, nothing had immediately struck him as flawed so as her leader she had the right to a little trust now and again. So when her gaze passed over him all he did was nod his agreement and readiness to move.
Out of the corner of his eye he caught Michael’s movement towards May. He smiled; Michael was most definitely going to fit right in here. He had the right kind of mind for it and the enthusiasm to match, which was not something every student came with. Ben himself had not been overly keen to be introduced to the danger room but with a bit of bullying By Taylor and Sean he had been talked into it. And he had strangely enough had come out again with a nice range of bruises and a smile.
“May, I’m a bit in the dark over this whole Rogue, Silver Strike Force thing, being new at the school and everything. I mean Lexi talked about trying to neutralise Rogues powers but I’ve no idea what she can do. I figure I’d be more useful if I did. You couldn’t fill me in could you?”
Yep Michael really did have the right idea; Ben hoped that the two fairies were listening as well as if May could clarify some of the details of Rogues powers it could help them all. All he really knew was that her powers were dangerous and somehow dealt with skin contact… oh and that she could flight. Which in itself was going to be hard to neutralise.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
The other red head was studying the situation laid out before them. It wasn’t just that they encountered Silver Strike Force, this would have been a reaction to most of the teacher’s they’d face. All of the elder X-men had their strengths, unfortunately Rogue just happened to be one who could drain the strength of others and additionally took a great deal of pounding before even flinching in irritation.
"It's Silver Strike Force led by Rogue so we must be on our guard." A rebellious need to get out there and fight began to swell inside of May, Sin’s temper getting the better of them as his urge to step up to an impossible challenge and prove himself better driving the need burning slowly inside of the other worldly young woman. "I'm not going to give a pep talk but we've marked one member out and we're going strong. Rogue is experienced and she'll be tough but we have to give our all because that's what she'll demand of her team." Wondering who else was on the team, both May and Scott listened intently to their leader, hoping for more information then what was going to be given regarding the other members. "Rogue is the main force here. I don't know just how her powers operate specifically so I don't know if completely numbing her touch will effect her powers or the way she uses them, at the very least it might throw her off and blinding particularly could be useful since she can't very well tag anyone unless she can see them." Yes, blind her, effect her in a way which gave Sin an advantage! Anything to help tip the odds in the joint duo’s favours.
"We have a dilemna about which way to go," Scott shifted his weight a little from one foot to the other, he didn’t want to fight, he didn’t know how to and on top of that it wasn’t in his nature to harm. Sure he would defend himself and the ones he loved, but unless pushed to those extremes he wouldn’t really cope inflicting pain on others. "Towards Michael's body since we'll need it anyway for a fight or away from it although we risk a run out in battle. That's not a decision I want to make but it's a choice of a leader I supose," May closed her eyes for a moment, Sin’s heated anger filled with indignation echoing loudly within her mind. Sometimes he really needed to learn when to remain silent.
"Speak up if you have a better plan but we should try and get to Michael's body so that we can continue onwards towards our destination if not found by Silver but if Silver comes close then we have to make sure they don't find him so that he can't be marked. Ben and I are limited to the ground so if it comes to a fight it will be difficult for us to escape whereas Tess, Scott, May and Michael can if neccessary get away. Tessa, Scott any animal distractions during a confrontation would be ideal even if it only detracts attention for a moment," As fantastic as the enchanted realm was, one will come to realize a lot of requests come at a price. While Scott was lucky that he was royal, thus reducing some of the demands others may have on him, it also came as a way for other things to try and gain something an average fairy (or others) may not usually be able to offer. At least the animal kingdom wasn’t so stressing and demanding, sometimes they’d ask for him to help sort out some issues or protect them from pesky intruders trying to harm the balance of the wild life in the area, but other then that most were quite content lending a friendly hand.
"May you have strength and we're going to need it. Everyone we have to be on our guard. They lost one member to seperating which means they'll stay safe as a group now. We need to carry on so we're going to walk but if anyone has anything valid to offer or sees a flaw speak now or forever hold your peace." May reframed from speaking because of the stress Sin was putting on her, last thing they needed now was to catch a glimpse of the hot tempered alien which housed itself within her. Running off to retrieve Michael’s body on her own and meeting up with them would have been quicker, but May wasn’t yet ready to trust herself alone with Sin at the moment, not while they were finally free on a distant island. After all, like it or not, Sin was a murderer, and while no one would know the symbiont by that name, they would know it by Venom, and if, or when, that happens May is pretty sure a lot of people will have more then a few issues with that. Best Ms Parker go to extremes to be at her best now, and keep him under complete control, so that way when doubts arise they would at least be aware that since meeting her May had been handling Sin well enough… but for some people that was never good enough.
“May, I’m a bit in the dark over this whole Rogue, Silver Strike Force thing, being new at the school and everything. I mean Lexi talked about trying to neutralise Rogues powers but I’ve no idea what she can do. I figure I’d be more useful if I did. You couldn’t fill me in could you?” They had been walking for a short while and May’s thoughts had yet to leave the struggle of silencing Sin and trying to insist he not make her stressed, one way or another they would probably end in a fight and he didn’t need to irritate her by wanting it sooner rather then later. But the fact Michael was talking with her, something she only would have realized due to the fact he mentioned her name, pulled the spider empowered female from her sea of troubled thoughts and focused her eyes over towards him.
"Rogue. One of the original X-men." May thought over one of the many infamous X-heroes and dredged up what information she had learned or been told. With her father having had contact with the X-men on a few occasions it meant she had more then just the vaguest of details… not to mention she had been a photographer for the Bugle, which meant she had a curiosity which was not so easily quenched.
"Absorbs powers on skin to skin touch, victim becomes incapacitated. Has the ability of flight. Increased speed, stamina and strength." A slight pause as May thoughtfully looked away, giving a careful scan of the area in the process. "That is all I have learned." The extent of these abilities weren’t entirely known to her either, but May did hear that Rogue had taken up Sentinels on her own (at least in May’s original reality and time) and considering her age then and the fact the woman’s powers were not at their peek, May had to assume that she was a tough fighter. Not that she was the only one to take on sentinel’s single-handedly, May had as well, and before joining with Sin, and sentinels were powerful, though Rogue’s invincibility was probably one of the southerner’s greatest assets, that and her strength alone would have made her a frightful enemy.
(OOC: Ok, this is gonna be a sucky post, cos for Silver virtually nothing has happened since the last time I’ve posted. Really uninspired so bear with me -_-“ Lady, Angie, if you wanna include any questions or such, feel free to do so. I can always edit ‘em in…)
Oblivious to the extent of awareness about Dawn’s team what was supposed to be Silver’s “victims” were having, Rogue found herself in the position of someone jumping into dark water. It could all go well with nice, warm currents… or the sea could be occupied by homicidal beasts of some kind. Knowing her luck, it probably was the latter. Following Talia’s guidance, they got ever closer to Green Strike Force’s location. Not for the first time, Rogue wondered what there was left to do when the other team simply refused to be surprised and flee right into their traps. They were building on sand… yet what other options did they have?
Her voice quiet and with the trace of a hopeful tone, the southern belle turned to Aisha without slowing down her pace, trusting that Talia would warn them in time. ”D’you think you could give us some grand entrance? Some special effects to… erm… make us seem a bit scarier?” In the end, people were nothing but animals with too much free time for thinking, right? So maybe appealing to primal instincts and fears could do the trick. And thunder and lightning certainly were way up on the list of basic subconscious fear factors.
”Now’s ya last chance for questions… but quietly… don’t wanna warn’em, righ’?” Hushed words spoken with the humour of those facing uncertainty. If nothing else, Rogue was thankful that this was no real mission. Keeping an eye on their surroundings, the thought of what it would be like if they were suddenly to face more than one team popped up in the mind of Silver’s leader. Well, at least it would cost them points which was better than nothing. ”Otherwise this is it…”
A signal from Nocturne informed them about Green’s near proximity. Following what she had roughly told them earlier, Rogue motioned everyone to form a wide-spread half circle as soon as it became clear and approach their target as a line. A quite pathetic line it would, true, still it was likely to be more impressive and create the feeling of being confronted by an unrealistically higher number of hunters than if they had all appeared at the same spot. Whatever things would turn out to be, now they took their toll.
"Why do ah feel so empty without you? Wasn't it mah own choice?"
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
(OOC: Wasn't sure what to do about the entrance exactly as in how far would they go and such so I left it for Rogue to step forward and say anything she wanted or to start giving orders. Hope this is alright.)
Lexi looked around at her assorted team members with a glance that would never be described as confident but which was far less unsure than she had previously been. She wasn't the perfect unfazed leader but she wasn't doubting every single action she took anymore and that was a beginning if nothing else. Lexi resorted slightly to form as she heard Michael ask about Rogue and remembered that she hadn't given a description of who exactly Rogue was and what her powers were. Never assume, the redhead told herself remembering the old saying about how it made an ass of you and me. Glancing at the other members of her team is became apparent that only about half of them knew of Rogue and her powers while the rest were in the dark.
Tess had been there long enough to sort of understand Rogue and to hear about her and she knew, to a certain extent, what it was the white streaked mutant could do but it was nice to have a refresher anyway. The suggestion of an animal distraction actually made Tess perk up a little, her violet eyes lighting at the prospect of being able to really help. The Faerie girl had always been able to talk easily with animals and although she assumed those here in the forest would be different from the ones back at the institute Tess still thought it wouldn’t be too hard to get some to help if they were willing. Glancing over at the blue-eyed Prince the blonde thought that the sway of not one but two of them would surely help a little when it came to the animals. Both Tess and her red headed leader listened as May explained about Rogue’s abilities and the danger in them before Lexi picked up the pace a little, noticing that no one had spoken up with another option. All she could do was be confident in the abilities of her team and to know that there was a possibly that they would come up with something in the heat of the moment as the rush of adrenaline and excitement overcame them. That, she knew from experience on a previous training mission, could happen.
~
The trek had been silent save for the breathing of the group members and the occasional comment or sound from nature. Aisha had been walking near the front of the group herself, more or less lost among her thoughts. After all the last fight situation she had been in involved an actual real foe, not opposing team members so how was she supposed to deal with this mock fight situation? The alternate universe girl wondered if she would be able to actually use her abilities in battle now that the anger was forced and not as true and unrestrained as in her native universe. Also weighing on her mind was the thought that Drian didn’t approve of this whole thing. He hadn’t been vocal in his disapproval but she had learned read him well and saw in his dark glances that he thought this exercise, for whatever reason, was a mockery to the memory of his friends. She knew it was illogical, heck he probably did too, but a person couldn’t control their feelings so easily and with her powers tying in so well with her feelings she had come to know this more than most ever would.
“D’you think you could give us some grand entrance? Some special effects to… erm… make us seem a bit scarier?” The question from Rogue came out of no where to the daydreaming Aisha but it wasn’t really so out of the blue in actuality. In a strange way it was flattering to the dark skinned girl for she did want to have a part in all this even if it was perhaps not so important as her previous battles.
“Yeah of course,” Aisha replied, her tone a mixture of nerves and excitement but fairly quiet and soft-spoken. “Some fog, thunder and lightning?” she asked rhetorically. Aisha knew that in order to pull this off she’d need to be more upset though, not flattered as she currently was to be singled out to do something specific.
”Now’s ya last chance for questions… but quietly… don’t wanna warn’em, righ’?” Rogue said, humour coming through in her hushed tone. Aisha stayed silent, having no real questions herself, only hoping that they would come out on top. Drian had moved up to walk beside her and he stood quietly with a grim expression of determination on his face. Her dark eyes taking him in Aisha thought that he had fought whatever inner battle he had to and was focused on the present. Drian might not approve but he would come through as he always did and she admired that in him.
“Otherwise this is it…” came the finishing statement from Rogue and there seemed to be a moment of complete silence where she was attuned to everything and feeling everyone else’s heartbeats even though she knew it wasn’t truly that way. Then came a signal from Nocturne and the only thought that ran through Aisha’s head was Showtime.
Rogue motioned at the group to approach as a line, a sort of manoeuvre that Aisha thought showed her experience. They seemed about ready and Aisha figured with Rogue’s glance in her direction that it was time for them to move forward towards the other team who were directly nearby. Angry she thought to herself. I have to be angry enough to muster some effects for our entrance. She felt Drian’s glance on the side of her head, willing her onwards and the weather mutant realised that she had a multitude of material.
Back home I watched Dan die senselessly. My parents were killed and I grew up mostly without them. That Hellish world where there’s so much trouble still goes on even as this world lives it up never knowing how good a life they have. The thoughts came to her as she worked up her anger and Aisha concentrated on pouring forth thick fog to cover the ground and give the place a feel of something impending. Next she concentrated her energies on the skies above and a distant rumbling of thunder could be heard. It was getting harder to maintain all this and to focus but Aisha kept at it, calling forth with her concentration a small flash of sheet lightning. It wasn’t the type that would send anyone running in fear but it made an impression and instinctively flashes of light and loud noises were frightening to most humans. Aisha could only hope she had done enough as she, Drian and Kalan stepped forward slightly but waited for Rogue to go forward first and to approach the surely surprised team before them.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
Ben listened quietly as May described Rogues powers and he was surprised at the way she did it. It sounded a bit like she was quoting a definition out of a dictionary. He shrugged people all remembered things in their own way and to his great sorrow all he ever seemed to remember was information about people and never anything that would serve him during tests. But now was really not the time for him to be wondering about May studying methods.
When the spider girl was finished Lexi led them on at an increased pace towards Michael’s body. it seemed that Lexi was if not happy at least satisfied with her plan and their ability to follow it. Now all they had to do was wait and see how good this hunter team really were. They had left no tracks to follow and not one had obviously left in a way that might have told Dawn where they were headed so the odds were in their favour.
But in the end it appeared that odds were just not enough and that Rogue led an effective team. A thick mist rolled in through the trees from behind them. They were going to have to stop here because they were only about 20 metres from Michael’s body, just far enough away to mask him from the other team. But if they moved any closer they were going to have to make sure they protected it as well as themselves.
He looked up as the light of day was slowly blotted out by looming thunder clouds. Well at least the fact that they had a weather controlling mutant was no longer a surprise. He was not sure whether or not he would have played that card if he was on the other team it ruin the element of surprise and he personally was not daunted by the show of lightning. But what was one teams mistake was the others advantage.
He figured that the display had been to try and scare them slightly… he had to admit that on second thought he had no idea how Scott would cope with this but he figured that the rest of the team would be fine. And the mist that was meant as cover for them also provided the hunted team with adequate shelter. He would quite happily stake his life on the fact that unless the other team had an invisibility mutant with them then green was a lot better equipped to hide than silver.
Besides with his glasses on the flashes of light did not disturb him to much and the presence of the clouds made everything very dark indeed. Which suited him down to the ground. He looked at the rest of his team they were probably all going through the same thought process as him, how do we make the most of this situation? Well he figured that the fairies being so small could just vanish, if May took to the trees then she would be very hard to make out and well Michael could just disappear. Which once again left him and Lexi… she could blind anyone that came near. And as for him he figured that if he stood in the deep shadow of a tree and created a wall of darlight he would blend pretty well.
He turned to Lexi and nodded his readiness silently; then he moved off into the deepest shadows he could find and concentrated on making a wall that was only a single particle wide. The problem with darklight is that it is very opaque and reasonably solid which in most cases is very useful but he was fully aware that he couldn’t make the darkness to complete or it would look out of place. So one particle thick it was… not an easy process but he couldn’t afford to fail.
It took him what felt like an eternity to craft his camouflage but finally it was ready and the other team had not yet come into sight although he did not doubt that they would be on top of them soon enough. All he could do now is wait and peer out form his hiding place and wait…
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
After having returned with Dawn, Talia felt she was actually managing to get into this whole team thing. She may be uncomfortable with it but at least she was proving useful to her group. What’s more she got to help someone, it was always nice when she could rescue someone instead of cause their downfall. But Talia was learning over the past year that sometimes the only way to protect someone was sometimes to defeat someone else, oh the complexities of life.
Listening to Rogue, Talia inwardly sighed at the thought she’d probably better open her mind to allow herself the advantage of seeking out their ‘enemy’, one thing she wasn’t enjoying about these teams was just that. Mutants were expected to use their powers to benefit the team, and being a telepath, even if just a weak one, meant that they desired to use that special gift to their advantage as much as possible. With a flick of her tail, Talia wondered what it would be like to become a full time nurse, where healing takes priority over these teams, so that way she could stay back with Dr McCoy and work with him. It wasn’t that Talia didn’t want to fight like all the others, she really did want to be of help, but the glory of battle didn’t call for her, she just wanted to help protect her friends and those around her. She didn’t want to hurt anyone, why couldn’t there be a team that helps heal the wounded or is sent in to help instead of fight? Sometimes people will surely need healers instead of warriors, like in the aftermath of a battle, when the chaos is done and the war is over, there is still a battle to be fought, and often it is the struggle for life that is the war which rages in the aftermath.
Talia wondered who was in the team they were about to face, more importantly had they ever been in her care before? She knew a few team members had at one point or another been in her care as a nurse, she just prayed she’d not face them, it was so difficult to put aside the care and concern she had felt towards them and instead lash out at them with assaults that could put them right back into her care once this is all over. The telepath did her best not to let others see the inner battle that has been playing within her since their first hour on this island, it wasn’t fair for her team, it wasn’t fair for Rogue who seemed to think Talia had some kind of potential. Maybe the southerner merely hoped for such a thing, Talia hardly felt she’s made any progress, though the blue furred mutant lacked the realization of just how far she truly has come since arriving at the school so many months ago.
~~~~~
The Prince was growing tired from all this walking, and it had been a good long while since he truly put so much effort into his flying, he really had to start being more active again. He stopped training since he left the palace, only his games were helping keep him in shape and that was hardly enough, he ought to be more assertive with his health, like his brothers always were. The still small fairy reframed from turning back into his human form, since shifting took energy out of him and being smaller he would be harder to capture so it wasn’t productive to waste energy in growing anyway. Scott looked over towards Tessa and offered a smile, hard to tell what sort it actually was, assuring, comforting, friendly, just a random smile, Scott was so baffled in his own feelings at this moment that it was hard for a single emotion to reign over the others.
When the special effects of Silver Strike Force came into play, Scott curiously glanced up at the sky. It was amazing, usually he was attuned with the weather, he’d have normally sensed a storm coming. It took a moment longer to click that it was probably one of those humans, they were truly a powerful race, if only they were able to help his people in the other realms, they’d surely win with allies such as the X-men. But his parents didn’t consider this their fight, they were so stubborn sometimes, just because they didn’t trust humans, Scott wished he could help them see how wonderful those at Xavier’s really were. The movement of Ben’s form leaving the group caught Scott’s attention and the fairy watched as both the dark matter manipulator and then the spider empowered female left the group to take up their hiding positions.
Bright azure eyes watched May vanish into the canopy while a clap of lighting scattered across the sky, the thick fog swirling in around their feet and rising heavily to swallow them up. It was actually quite dangerous for Scott to be hidden from the sight of the humans because that meant that he was an easy target for wayward goblins or other nasty creatures who might be lurking in the area, waiting for their own chance to strike. Lucky for Scott the only creatures that wish him harm are too far aware and unaware of his arrival on their island home and they’d probably not discover any rumours until later at night when they frolic outside of their hidden holes and tiny caves.
"Tessa, perhaps if we stay together we shall gain greater amounts of help from those around us." The fairy kept his voice soft and quiet, he wanted to hide amongst the branches since staying low in the fog was too risky, he might get trampled all over! Actually he had almost started speaking in his native tongue, it was a beautiful language that reached the distance ears of nature far easier then the human tongue, but it was mostly out of habit that he’d speak with a fairy in their own tongue. He wasn’t sure Tessa knew their native tongue, and he didn’t want to assume she did since the young girl would probably feel bad for not knowing it. He was going to presume she didn’t know the language, it seemed she knew so very little of her own people, so why would she know their words? Maybe one day he could start teaching her a few words, he wouldn’t know for sure if it was the native tongue of her parents, like humans have different languages other races also had language barriers amongst their own kind. But if she was from around here, then it was most likely her parents spoke the language of this area, and if that was true then Scott could teach her, if they were from another nation far away, then all he could do is show her a glimpse of his own world, which would still be so similar to her parents, even if their language was different to his. If only he knew who they were and where they came from, did Tessa even know herself?
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
Michael listened carefully to what may was saying, her concise explanation covering all the major points and delivered swiftly and efficiently *Like everything else she does* the Scot thought to himself impressed if a little daunted by the formidable list of abilities the Silver Strike force leader possessed.
This Rogue sounded like a force to be reckoned with and then some.*At least when Connor or Madison duplicate your powers they don’t knock you out at the same time* he thought with alarm. Add to that the speed with which he had seen the older mutant move and if all made for a whole heap of trouble And that was before taking into account the unknown powers that the rest of the pursuing team no possessed.
He glanced over at Lexi reassured by the determined look he saw on her face. He figured that she must be concerned by the situation but she seemed to think that they could handle it and her calmness did a lot to steady his untried nerves. So far they had been lucky. As predicted, taking the no doubt unexpected route dictated by the need to recover his body had kept them out of any further traps the other team may have set. Still despite their best efforts he was far from sure that they did not possess some means of tracking that even the most elaborate precautions could not entirely baffle.
Moving more quickly now the soon covered the distance separating him from his physical form. Indeed they were within some 20 meters of his hiding place when a mist started to rise from the ground as swift and sudden as those in the glens of his homeland and as disconcerting to the unwary traveller. He looked at it in surprise. Ok he was used to sudden changes in the weather but this was a bit extreme even by his standards. Overhead dark clouds started to gather, the combination of the two phenomena a further indication that this was far from a natural occurrence.
*So they can control the weather* he thought to himself *That’s nice. Could certainly prove useful in a wet August in Saltcoats.*
Inside however he was far from calm and when the first flash of lightening lit the sky he could feel his tension mounting. All right this was nothing compared to the storms of his childhood and normally he wouldn’t have minded it but he was forced to remember that at this moment he was technically strapped to the branch of a high tree. While the opposing team would probably take care not to target the actual members of Green Strike with any bolts of lightening they may decide to throw around they could hardly be expected to know that trees were out of bounds.*Now that would be a stupid way to die* he thought to him self *fried to a crisp by accident on my first day out.*
However he forced such considerations to the back of his mind, reading the team leaders intentions from the gestures she gave him and the other students. So they were going for discretion were they. Well he could do that. Seemed that Ben could too he realised watching his friend blend the shadows around himself and disappear into the darkness. Only Lexi was still visible but then he was sure she could handle the situation with her powers . Still, as he faded into his invisible and immaterial form he decided to stick close to her. Just in case.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
Lightning, though not the most intimidating strokes, illuminated the sky – dimly, faint warnings of a thunderstorm to come if they hadn’t been created by a human. And fog covered it all, like a sea that couldn’t drown, a blanket that didn’t warm. The perfect setting for a horror movie… but still Rogue hesitated. Her head slightly tilted to the side, the southern belle tried to find out what was bothering her, one hand raised – a sign for the others to wait. Something about this scenario wasn’t quite it.
Was it maybe too perfect? An assuring smile aimed at Rayne showed clearly that Rogue was impressed with the weather-connected mutant’s job, yet maybe there was a way to get a bit more out of it than originally intended. Hands rose to catch everybody’s eye, drew circles into the air, pointing at the opposite site. A dramatic entrance was one thing but using it as a means of distraction to attack from another side, yes, maybe that would prove even more effective. The whole area was covered with traps and while one part contained a higher density of them, the rest would still do their work, so there was nothing lost, really.
As soundlessly as possible, the absorption mutant started moving, motioning Drian and Talia to widely circle their target on the other side while Aisha and Kalan should follow her. A finger patting her upper cheek bone close to the eye was meant to tell them to be on guard and keep their eyes open for potential traps or ambushes. After all, what had been planned to be their big entrance effect was quite an effective warning and although this was exactly what Rogue was hoping for, Green’s focus on the side they were not going to attack from, it could still backfire.
Despite her experience as a team fighter, Rogue had quite less often been in the position of a leader; maybe a reason why chose to change a plan in the last second, something that was bound to confuse her own team. Yet it was just a training, wasn’t it, and so experimenting couldn’t mean any real harm but maybe turn out to teach a valuable lesson for the real thing to come. Mistakes made now wouldn’t be repeated, zero consequence for failure here could turn out to save their lives on the battle fields.
They had almost got to the other side when Silver’s leader nodded at the two in her company, mouthing “stop”, signalling them that she would continue on her own. ”Enter at cue,” she whispered ever so quietly. The rest of the way she completed hovering flat over the ground, soundlessly and almost invisible in the forest’s shadows. It took just a minute for her to reach Nocturne and Prometheus, the former’s natural graze and the latter’s experience not having left any doubt in her that they would manage to get around the other team without being noticed.
”Ah’ll try t’ get’em outta hidin’. Wait till most or all have shown ‘emselves, then give then give the others their cue ‘n step in. If you can tag anyone, good, otherwise try chasin’em to the traps.” And again a plan built on sand… but where was the fun without any risks? Flashing them a grin, Rogue sped back to a spot that was in between the two small groups and got back on her feet, trying hard to not show how entertaining this was finally beginning to be for her. Senses at peak, ready to battle, the absorption mutant entered the spot Talia had said to be where the others were located. Admittedly, she had never been a great actor… but since Rogue really didn’t have the faintest clue where exactly everyone was, she didn’t find it overly difficult to appear like someone searching randomly…
"Why do ah feel so empty without you? Wasn't it mah own choice?"
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
(OOC: Hope this is okay I really wasn't sure how to proceed)
The thunder and lightning was hard to miss and the misty fog that covered the ground, although it didn't obscure anything above the knee, also alerted Lexi to the fact that there was another team here who had come upon them. Her brain worked quickly and since Storm was not a part of Silver and neither was Tempest to her knowledge that left Aisha Munroe. The red haired woman remembered having met the younger girl a few times although they knew each other more through mutual friends than as friends in their own right. This at least meant that the girl's powers were only pathetic fallacy, weather mirroring her emotions instead of a full out raging storm like Ororo would have created.
Ben, as ever, seemed clear minded as he nodded silently and moved off into shadows. That he had created a camouflage so quickly and without any sort of command was a big assist to Lex who hadn't really known the full extent and potential of his darklight powers previously.
Lexi knew she had to find her own way to hide but first she had to make sure her team were safe and hidden if possible, if not then ready to defend themselves. In the meantime she thought over what little she knew of Silver. Even without knowing much about Aisha the redhead knew that on her team would be Drian who seemed ever present around her. She remembered the sombre rebel mutant's powers of foresight and realised that he would probably be able to find at least a few of them fairly easily if he concentrated. Clearly their disguise would only be a diversion and a chance to once again gain back the element of surprise, it was by no means a permanent fixture of a plan.
Perhaps it was the adrenaline of the situation but Lexi felt she was strangely in control and logical all things considered. For some reason while the drive and determination not to mention excitement was still within her there was a level headedness she wouldn't have expected considering they were under attack by a far more experienced team. She watched as May disappeared into a canopy above as her chosen hiding place, leaving Michael, the faeries and herself.
"Tessa, perhaps if we stay together we shall gain greater amounts of help from those around us." Tess' attention was jerked away from the weather effects and her team-mates disappearing as Scott spoke quietly to her. Her violet eyes focused on him and him alone and a slight smile of agreement crossed her face.
"Yes that's wise," she answered keeping her voice quiet so as not to alert the other team to anything. Realising her team-mates were hiding themselves from view Tess had an idea but she still knew so little about the powers of a full faerie and about what would be right or wrong in a given circumstance that she was hesitant about offering her ideas. "Should we back up and become invisible perhaps?" Tess asked with a quiet urgency. She was able to stay in an invisible form for up to ten minutes and the violet-eyed girl knew she wouldn't have to stay that hidden away for that long.
Lexi noticed Michael fade into invisibility at her side and had partially to smile, sure that his close proximity was at least partially due to his concern over her lack of powers that helped with invisibility. She stood at the ready herself, focusing her hand and her keen eyes so that she'd be able to blind anyone who came to close to her. Perhaps if her team-mates could mainly handle the others while she and may went for Rogue. Of course whatever other assistance her team-mates could provide to taking down Rogue would be handy too.
She remembered the small piece of information she had reasoned out earlier and quickly moved her hand to her communicator. Lexi didn't want to say it aloud so that everyone on the other team would hear her but since they had not yet made their grand entrance she thought she could quietly pass on a quick message without raising an alarm. "Green one of the other team members, Drian, has foresight powers. He'll have visions of things and may be able to spot us or anticipate actions so be on guard. He also has some experience in hand to hand that the others might lack." Lexi's message was said quickly and in the scarcest of whispers which thankfully was picked up through the communicator. Hopefully that small piece of information would help them at least a little. For now though it seemed that all the first time leader could do was to wait for attack.
~~~~~
Rayne worried at first that her mockery of a storm would not be sufficient but when she caught Rogue's reassuring smile the weather mutant was able to breathe a brief sigh of relief. Rogue seemed to have something further in store though for she raised her hands gaining the attention of everyone on the team and pointed at the opposite side from where they were currently standing.
Drian picked up on her signals and watched closely as Rogue motioned he and the blue furred telepath to circle widely the target area in order to move to the other side. It was a wise move, the move of a leader to do the unexpected because surely with Aisha's show effects the team they had ambushed would be expecting them from a certain direction. As he began to follow her instructions carefully Drian felt a new respect for the seasoned leader and began to understand why Rogue was so esteemed among the X-men.
Aisha and Kalan were motioned to follow Rogue and Kalan couldn't help thinking to himself that he was glad he was following Rogue directly. It wasn't that he was necessarily scared, just a little worried that on his first mission he might be caught or mess something up and he was quite the perfectionist at times. Aisha was distracted as they circled around, obviously still wanting to keep an element of the show up in order to retain the surprising entrance from an opposite side and as such her face was clouded and her brow furrowed. She looked as if slightly irritated in an office meeting or some such thing to Kalan and he kept his line of eye sight after that on Rogue, the surrounding area and the ground in case of traps.
A motioned nod from Rogue told Kalan and Aisha to stop where they were and a mouthed 'stop' made sure her intentions could not be mistaken. "Enter at cue,” Rogue said in a small whisper and Kalan nodded back to make sure she knew he had heard her, curls bobbing ever so slightly as he did so. Aisha was still focused on the emotion of irritation and anger so her mist continued along with the occasional rumble of thunder.
Rogue reached Drian, who had managed to find his way around with Nocturne due to prior experience in making a stealthy entrance and in being unseen, fairly quickly it seemed. Her command came quickly and efficiently to them, ”Ah’ll try t’ get’em outta hidin’. Wait till most or all have shown ‘emselves, then give then give the others their cue ‘n step in. If you can tag anyone, good, otherwise try chasin’em to the traps.” Her plan seemed as sound as it could be in the situation where they seemed to be going by their guts and by whatever possible plan seemed efficient at the time. With a grin she sped away, leaving he and Nocturne there to wait for her to unmask the hiding team.
~~~~~
Only Lexi was left out in the open although even she had tried to back up into the foliage a little in order to give herself better cover. She had a feeling from the silence and the extended entrance which hadn't seemed to occurred that somehow the other team was intending to scope them out and to bring the hiding team into view. 'Stay strong until we've got a target or can collectively pounce' Lexi willed them, hoping that she wouldn't be the first to fall in the confrontation to occur.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
unfortunately not complete but oh well.. better than nothing
There comes an age when people have to take over responsibility. It remains the question whether there is also a time when they can get rid of it again.
Re: Confrontation (Green SF & Silver SF)
Rushes in brandishing saved posts!!
........................................
Scott and May
"Yes that's wise," A proud little smile tugged in the corner of the Prince’s lips, he said something that was wise, it felt nice to say something and have someone agree with him like that. Usually it was his brothers that spoke first and their ideas always accepted without any chance for Scott to even ponder the questions or situation. "Should we back up and become invisible perhaps?" The hesitation had been noticed regarding Tessa thinking carefully over her words, but as Tess spoke up the look of assurance faded from Scott’s expression and was replaced with confused surprise.
"I do not yet know how to yet, I’m too young." The enchanted male whispered back. Some fairies had the ability naturally from birth, in fact most of them did, Scott’s people generally were only invisible to non-believers since they never really practiced how to harness the power they were blessed with. Since it took time to learn and a lot of training to manage it, the tutors often neglected teaching their students how to turn invisible, after all, most creatures they would want to hide from in their realm could sense their presence, invisible or not. In their opinions there was more important things to learn instead. Scott glanced around quickly, aware now was not really the moment to get into such a debate, he couldn’t turn invisible, so that was that, no use dawdling on the subject, they had to hide.
"I shall be alright, I am a decent player in the game of hide and seek, you however turn invisible." Added the charming Prince with an anxious yet sweet smile. Lifting his small form up into the trees, his enchanted clothes still a blend of forest hues, helping camouflage his form amongst the branches and leaves. As Scott snuggled down amongst the leaves of the branches, managing to still sense Tessa’s presences despite not being able to see her at least helped him a little with appearing all by himself. He wouldn’t like to be alone, not out here where he was defenceless and lost, having these people with him gave him some strength, but knowing there was another of his own kind, that gave him both hope and comfort.
Up in her perch May inwards groaned, from what she could tell no one else on the team had anywhere near the experience she had with real fights. Already she was focusing on one target, the most dangerous, their leader Rogue, the others could deal with the left overs… hopefully. Though admittedly May wondered if this foresighted mutant’s abilities was anything like her own ‘spider-sense’, it would be interesting if it was, also would be amusing to see who’s was better…
The symbiont mask crept over her face as May’s eyes watched the movement of Rogue’s form as the other leader entered their area. A small smirk crept unwillingly upon the female mutants lips, Sin’s delight of finally being able to partake in a brawl burning within her. Silently aiming her wrists towards Rogue’s position, May shot out a sticky webbing which spanned out to try and net the untouchable female below, May’s body instantly leaping through the canopy so that Rogue wouldn’t launch a counter attack should the webbing miraculously miss the woman. The attack was doubling as a signal for Lexi to start her own magic on Rogue, best May face the woman once Lexi’s powers were in effect, no point in taking risky chances… though going up against someone like Rogue was a risky chance in itself.
"Green one of the other team members, Drian, has foresight powers. He'll have visions of things and may be able to spot us or anticipate actions so be on guard. He also has some experience in hand to hand that the others might lack."
Lexi’s voice coming through the com badges startled him somewhat, he had been so focused on trying to work out from which direction the opposing team could come at them that the small whisper seemed loud to him. He had not really followed where his team mates had hidden themselves but he did not feel that it was particularly important. He trusted that if there was a problem they would step in and help.
He found himself chewing his lip as he attempted to find a way around the rather worrying information that Lexi had just given them. It was a relative relief that this Drian did not have any real offensive powers but his ability to foresee his opponent’s moves was a great advantage in his favour. Somehow it really bothered Ben that this other mutant would know what he was about to do before he had even thought of it. And regrettably it seemed to Ben that there was no real way around foresight, it wasn’t something you could dupe, mainly because it allowed its possessor to anticipate all clever strategical ideas you came up with. The only reassuring thing about this situation was that there was the slim possibility that the power of foresight would not work all of the time and some actions may still remain a surprise. All Ben could think of doing was having a back up/ back off plan in case his original move was countered.
Ben looked over to where he could only just see Lexi standing; she had backed into the shelter of a tree obviously trying to get as much cover as possible. And then it hit him, Drian may possess foresight but if Ben stayed hidden for as long as possible and used his powers from a distance the foresight mutant could anticipate him but not find him. He smiled, it wasn’t much of a plan and he knew that his powers would not allow him to attack the other mutant but if he could immobilise him maybe someone else could mark him.
However he did not have the leisure to continue that train of thought he stood as still as possible as the leader of the opposing team walked into their small clearing… well it wasn’t really much of a clearing more of a space that was slightly less full of trees. He had seen Rogue around the institute a couple of times and as most people did he recognised the distinctive white stripes in her hair before all else. He scanned between the trees expecting to see the rest of the team making their way towards them as well. But no shadows came, Rogue was alone and that worried him. Surely the rest couldn’t be far from here… but why were they holding back… did this woman have some special plan?
Well the only logical thing for Green to do now was to take down their greatest threat while they had her isolated, even if the rest of the team was waiting in ambush it was still their best bet. It seemed that May had also come to that conclusion as a net of webbing appeared out of the canopy behind the untouchable mutant. He held his breath, this was there greatest challenge and he was worried for May. He knew that if she ever found out that he had been worried she would probably give him the iciest stare he had ever seen… so he would just never tell her. He hoped that Lexi had been able to blind and deafen Rogue or else the struggle would be very one sided. It wasn’t that he doubted May’s abilities it was just that Rogue appeared so much more powerful.
He decided that in order for him to use his powers in the best interest of the team, he should stay hidden and try and keep an eye on the confrontation. He highly doubted that he would be any help there but one thing he could do was attempt to make sure that none of the other opposing team members crept up on them. He knew that he could not hold them off for very long but he could at least alert his team to their presence.
Topic Commands
Click to receive email notification of replies
Click to stop receiving email notification of replies
