Newgrounds.com — Everything, By Everyone.

I am over eight. *Jean springs to his feet and uses an electromagetic charge to return the staff to his hand and recalls it to it's origonal size. He then causes a wall of ice to form around the shape. A bolt of the lightning from before encases the structure and lifts it off of the groud, hurling it to the wall where it shatters.*

(You guys are brawling amongst trillions of dollars of equipment! Jean, where are your manners?! XD)

*The employees in the communication room all hurry out a backdoor, frenzied and scared, as a man and something they cannot see are fighting. They do not know the battle is friendly, and needless to say lightning and material objects are being flung every which way. The men would've had no reason to stay there, anyway. As soon as special sensors in the room picked up even miniscule traces of a fight or menacing action, every machine went into instant Sleep mode; an impenetrable program, in which the code changes every second. The code, 300 characters long, was only able to be figured out by LeChuck and Zanzibar. No one else knew the methods. It was from days of old...A personal joke between the two. Also, security grids had covered the equipment, preventing it from being harmed. The room was emptied quickly.*

*Outside, LeChuck, giggling like a schoolgirl and stumbling into walls and tripping over nothing, enters the room. He stops, bewildered, as he watches a large chunk of ice shatter against the wall. He stumbles into the room, leaning against the wall for balance, as he sees Jean in a combat position. LeChuck laughs.*
"Jean...Je-Jean.....Mate, ome have a drionk! Cmon...We'll dirnk to life...and yer duahgter! a fine lass she is, oy....If is was youner, I mighta had a awy wiv her! Oyu, whats wiv theice? Im confused mhan!"
*LeChuck, beind an undead, immediately sensed the presence of Matt. He could not only see him, but feel him as well. He smiled as he realized Matt was struggling to get up and fight back at Jean. He gave a devilish grin and lunged at Matt with a maniacal laugh. He immediately had Matt in a headlock. While the boy was corporeal, he was no match for LeChuck's strength and speed.*
"Oy lad, cam yerslf. We're avin funn! B'a good ladm, an chill. Oy! Ya wanna be sparin, spar els wher! Com, follo'me"
*LeChuck finally released the struggling Matt, and meandered his way to the door again. He opened it with a code (as the room had sealed itself, with many fields of magic, doors, and booby traps to keep the possible-threats within), that took him 10 minutes to get right. As the fields and every precaution finally disabled, the equipment in the room became usable again, and the agents returned to work, leChuck waved at the two to follow him.*
"Oy, come. I'll showye a goo time!"
*He stumbled off down the hallway, in the direction of the battle chambers. He had a treat for Matt and Jean...*

*LeChuck grumbled to himself as technicians scrambled to make the necessary connections and uplinks so that LeChuck's message would be broadcast to all major military installments and radio waves. With a little help from an elite IT squad, they would also be able to overwrite certain radioes and systems of communication, making it possible to interrupt others telecommuniacations and broadcasts. Practically the entire galaxy would hear this. As everything was finished connecting, LeChuck picked up the microphone. This would be an audio broadcast only.*
"People of the galaxy, this is Sea-King Smuttynose LeChuck, Member of the Royal Family and King of Tortuga. Whether or not you and I are friends or enemies, or even strangers, this pertains to all of us. A short while ago, an incredibly powerful creature, known as an Avatar, came through a machine created by the fucking moron...." He paused a minute to wonder if it was alright to curse over this. He shrugged and decided it was fine..."Arcturus, and he has placed the entire galaxy in jeopardy. Regardless of differences, we must all bind together and find a way to destroy this monstrousity. If we continue to bicker and squabble amongst ourselves, our annihilation is ensured. We must work together. For starters, Dorian and the Corporation, get rid of that fucking blockade. Where we may all meet and converge to team up, is undecided.....I will be back. Keep your eyes peeled for really weird shit."
*The communication cut off. LeChuck rubbed his chin as he pondered his final words in the speech, and how silly they were. He shrugged and got up to head to the pub for a drink. If the universe was going to end soon, he was damn sure going to get drunk first.*

*As the heavily modified Devil's Plague is leaving the docking bay, LeChuck receives a comm.
Capt: Sir! We've got incredible activity at that jump accelerator, sir! The preliminary forces we sent out half an hour ago.....half are gone! I ordered the others to take their distance, but keep watching. They keep saying they're intercerpting the word "Avatar" over the radio waves. Whatever that means, something is ripping the corporate fleet to shreds, and our men can't even see it! It's not a ship, it's not--
"CAPTAIN!" LeChuck barked. "Order those men to return NOW!"
Capt: Y-yes sir. Right away sir.
"Stop our departure, captain. Take us back into the bay."
*The Captain knew better than to ask questions, he merely did as he was told.*
"You can handle it. I've got some things to do." LeChuck zoomed out of the ship into space, and was back in the docking bay just in time to catch Jean before he entered his ship.*
"Jean wait!" LeChuck shouted as he came to a screeching halt in front of him. "Don't go. We're too late...fuck" he muttered. "The Avatar has come through....it's tearing through the corporate fleet like a hot knife through butter. I was told seconds ago that we also witnessed Lawrence's fleet retreat into hyperspace. If Lawrence retreated, theres no way we could have any tangible impact on stopping it. We don't know where he was headed, though..."
*Jean stood still. LeChuck sighed.*
"I have to go do some unpleasant things. My advice is don't go, it's pointless. Our only hope now is setting up defenses, and hoping Zanzibar has success on Korriban. I'm going to do what has to be done, unfortunately."
*LeChuck sauntered off the the main communications HQ on Tortuga. On the way he passed by a large window, displaying mostly Greupetos I. LeChuck smiled as he usually did at it's beauty. He would give his death before he saw the innocents on that planet perish...He immediately slapped his forehead.*
"God, I'm a softie...." he muttered
*He walked on and into the large room. They stood at attention, and he waved them at ease. He took his seat in the center and grumbled.
"Captain..."
*A man woith more colors and decorations than most stood at attention and saluted.*
Capt: Yes sir!
"Send out a broadcast.....all radio waves, no scrambles, nothing...I want everyone with a speaker to hear this."

At 2/9/05 06:05 PM, Baderact wrote: The boy dragged Matt through a number of walk to appear in the room with LeChuck and Syrus. "Hey guy's, I found us the ghost."

*LeChuck turned to see the Boy and Matt in tow.*
"Ah, there you are. Haven't seen you in a while. Have a seat and don't ask questions. We're in the middle of getting some extremely time-sensitive information, and no offense, but you don't know shit. If you can sit there..." LeChuck points to a chair nearby everyone but to the side, "and stay quiet, you may stay and listen. If you feel like chatting, Boy there will talk your ear off."
*LeChuck folded his arms and frowned*
"Jean, we're not doing a damn thing when the whole universe seems to be going to Hell." LeChuck glances at Syrus with a slight smile. Syrus doesn't even face him. His face is somewhat pale. LeChuck forgets what he had been talking about and his face drains. "Syrus...."
*Syrus is silent. His cigarette has burned to complete ash. He has not been smoking it this entire time. His eyes stare straight ahead, and what appears to be fear. Syrus shakes his head slowly.*
"He did it.....he actually fucking did it."
*Syrus immediately crushed the cigarette out and got up. He turned and walked towards the door. LeChuck shot to his feet, angered.*
"Where the fuck do you think you're going?!"
*Syrus spun in an instant, Hell in his eyes, and when he spoke his voice was somewhat different...something dark was behind it.*
"The first has passed through! This is no time for talk, this is a time for action! If we don't get moving NOW, we may lose what little time we have left! Arcturus is a daft twit, and if we don't at least TRY to stop him, all you are fucked. Hell ain't so bad, but personally, I like it here a lot better! So my advice is get the fuck up and get out there!"
*With that Syrus turned back and began running out of the door. LeChuck slowly turned back to the group.*
"Well...Jean, you've got a crystal. Gattsu and Karn, don't abuse these.*
"LeChuck produced two crystals and threw them at them.*
"Josephine, I know Jean will be watching over you like a hawk with OCD, so just to make him feel better, here." *He threw a crystal to her as well. He turned to Atomicus.*
"You have one. I don't know if you'll be joining us for the fight. Something tells me you won't. Over everything, you're father and uncle were good men....er, lizards. I'm proud to have known you as well."
*He laughed and hung his head, shaking it slightly as he chuckled.*
"I haven't spoken like that since I was alive, and I've been dead for centuries...still, I feel as if...if there were a time when Zanzibar and I risked death....again, this is that time."
*He took one last look around the room.*
"Ladies and gentlemen..." he made an extravagant bow. "To the batcave!" A skin-colored blur was present for a moment, and he was gone. LeChuck could only hope the others would act as quickly, before time ran out for them to put a stop to the madness ensuing.*

(If I forgot to give anyone there a crystal, just consider that I gave you one. Matt, I purposefully didn't give you one b/c you're ethereal and couldn't use one, and you don't need one. To the batcave!)

(Ah, they're all god damned lizards to me ; P)

*LeChuck smiled faintly as they walked.*
"Good. Here we are."
*The door opened to reveal the room where everyone was, Syrus still awaiting a response from Gattsu and/or Karn.*

At 2/8/05 01:57 PM, Atomicus wrote: Atomicus: "It's no trouble LeChuck. I understand how you feel. Of course Atlas plans to betray, but because we know this and because he's going to be quite busy with preparing for this upcoming war... we will have time to plan. Unfortunately, if we don't help him in this war, we may not have anything left to live for... at least Atlas wants to keep the universe existing. Besides, it may not have been Atlas that had the bomb planted... it may have been Gigus. That would explain why it was merely a bomb and not some kind of magical attack. A bomb is messy, and Atlas could be called a classy kind of evil."

*LeChuck sat back down or a moment, staring at the floor, deep in thought.*
"Right....right. So we shall ally with him, but simply for strategic purposes. I suppose to stop an Avatar that makes sense. And quite frankly, I don't care who planted the bomb. Gigus, Atlas, or his great grandmother. I don't like either of them. Although...sonuvabitch....I must try to show mercy to Gigus and Taruy. They're Mortis's only offspring, and I would not let his bloodline die. If you find it possible, please spare at least one of them. Mortis did say, though, that if either one were to stand in our way..."
*LeChuck looked back up from the floor at Atomicus.*
"Allright. You can tell Atlas we accept his alliance. Now, let's go meet the rest of the guests."
*LeChuck lead the way to where Jean and the others waited.*

At 2/8/05 11:29 AM, Atomicus wrote: Atomicus: "The loss of Mortis is sad, but he had grown very tired of the way things were, and he did not have the power to turn it around. But that's not important right now. Atlas sent me here to gain your support for a war. He believes something is coming that will require combined powers in order to defeat. Knowing this... he will try to keep as many as he can until this war is won. However... if he catches Zanzibar... I don't know what will happen. I assume that Zanzibar took the staff and the tablet. All this could be good news in trying to stop Atlas... but if this threat he senses is real... we may have more to worry about. Come now, I can't be the only guest you have, seeing as mine is not the only foreign ship in the bay. Lead the way and introduce me to the others."

*LeChuck stares at Atomicus a moment.*
"Atlas wants to ally with Tortuga? A Naraxan God wants our help? Forgive me for perhaps not being able to wrap my mind around this idea, but I have a hard time believing a being of his power would need, even ask, for our help. Besides, since he tried to kill us the last time we visited, I have no doubts that he simply plans to betray us in the end. My apologies, but I se no reason why I should ally myself with a creature I want dead."
*He rises to his feet*
"Now, if you would like to discuss more on the topic, we may, but solely in the confines of this room. If we are finished I will gladly introduce you to the rest of our guests."
*LeChuck's tense posture visibly relaxes, and his face reveals the stress he is enduring.*
"Atomicus, times are extremely rough right now. I am not myself. I don't mean to offend you in any way, but all my answers of late are short and to the point. I'm not in the mood for joyous antics."

*Syrus walks into the room as Jean has turned to Gattsu and Karn. Syrus hears his words and nods to himself. He pulls LeChuck's chair closer to the two and sits without a word. FInally he lights a cigarette and crosses his legs as he takes a drag.*
"My name is Syrus. I am an associate of LeChuck. Tell me evrything you know of the Avatars."

At 2/8/05 10:46 AM, Atomicus wrote: *Atomicus' cloaked speeder somehow managed to pass the blockade without incident. The speeder made it's jump through hyperspace and arrived safely at Tortuga. The captain requested a docking place and landed. Atomicus exited the small craft and awaited the invitation of LeChuck.*

*LeChuck is informed that Atomicus has arrived, and he rises, his eyes still on Jean.*
"Jean, I want to know more of this other person who is in our midst that knows more about the Avatars. Whether or not Lawrence decides to ask for help now that he and Arcturus are at each others throats has yet to be seen. For now, all we can do is believe we're on our own. I have to greet a friend. Excuse me."
*LeChuck bows and surveys the group once more before departing to the waiting room where Atomicus waits. Some simple furniture of comfort and a table is all that is there, and LeChuck walks in to greet him.*
"Atomicus, I am sorry for the loss of Mortis. We know you felt more for him than perhaps even his own son did. We will do everything in our power to make sure his death was not in vain, you may rest assured."
*LeChuck lets out a *whew* and wipes his brow, sitting down with his now slightly-warm beer.*
"Christ....now that the formalities are out of the way, what the hell is going on? I'm so god damned confused, and I have yet to visit the brothels in town for the first time in centuries. For the love of God, please tell me you have good news."

At 2/8/05 01:03 AM, stafffighter wrote: It was beyond clear that even a man as blinded with desire for knowledge as Lawrence would not accept the coperations predictable ideas to turn any power into a weapon. While he was abord my ship his device fed on a false database for my ship. This ruse contained both magic and enchantment. Power to overcome Navacom? No where near. But the peak of my magic was enough to hide it from navacom while it merged with the, less enchanted coperate technology. Much like when Greek armies would allow fortified troops to capture poisened grain. This is how I know that their partnership has been torn assunder. I also know that an Avatar is coming, one who our guests know very well indeed.

*LeChuck froze at the last statement, beer still in his mouth, unswallowed. He swallowed slowly and set his mug down on a nearby table. He cleared his throat, and leaned forward towards Jean in one smooth motion.*
"And who might that be?"

At 2/7/05 01:17 PM, Baderact wrote: I hope I'm not being fool hardy hoping the man I am trying to kill is going to show me the way to the weapon that will be his undoing. I am not so much worried about capture or entry, more so, if he is the only one we know with access to Korriban, knowing of my presence may forever doom our goal."
Zanzibar rolled his shoulders and smiled. "Lets hope that he can't sense the ancients in me, because that would just get messy..."

*LeChuck groaned as he received Zanzibars message. He slapped his leg and replied*
Listen, I know about as much about these "blessed vessels" and whatnot as you do, which ain't much. If you're really stuck for ideas, why don't you jsut contact Atomicus yerself? He's on his way here now, and he's got Mortis's crystal. So What belonged to Mortis has now been passed on down to Atomicus. And he's not gonna blow ya up as long as you don't cause a scene. He may be a GOd, but he's a very busy God, especially now that he knows Lawrence is going to be coming to him for information, most likely. If yer in trouble, ye know what to do.
*LeChuck sighed as he sipped his beer. Syrus mentioned something about going to study up on what Satan knew of the Avatarsm and LeCHucks imply grunted as he strolled to where Jean and the others were. He entered with a massive belch.*
"Welcome! Nice to see you all here ane safe in Tortuga."
*He noticed Karn. His left eyebrow raised.*
"So.....yea. Okay, we've got an interesting bunch, don't we, Jean?"
*He snapped, and a servant came running with a comfortable chair. LeChuck once again relished the comfort that pillows provided. He sat and admired his chiseled features once more, as he had been doing now for the past few days.*
"Ah, 'tis a body to die for. Jean! What have ye been up to, Lord only know you've not been idle. Whacha been cookin' up?"

At 2/7/05 10:29 AM, Atomicus wrote: Atomicus: "LeChuck, Zanzibar, I'm not sure how this thing works, but I needed to contact you. Atlas is shifting his attention to an upcoming war. This may or may not be a good time to go to Korriban. Either choice means great risks. If you decide to go, I suggest you stowaway aboard one of the blessed vessels. Stealing one won't work because Atlas will know it, and he'll... "unbless" or shall I say damn the vessel. I am coming to Tortuga, as an ambassador. I will be there soon."

*LeChuck froze as he received the message from Atomicus.*
"Well I'll be damned....he's got Mortis's crystal....."
*LeChuck contacted Zanz*
Zanz, Atomicus is using Mortis's crystal. He said that you should stowaway on one of the blessed vessels? Whatever that means, and hide yourself. Maybe go in as smoke or with the wind or something. But that's the only way you'll get into Korriban, he says. Good luck mate.
*LeChuck then contacted Atomicus.*
Atomicus, 'tis good to know yer on our side. You'll need to watch out for the blockade. My advice is either go wide around us and approach from a side they aren't covering, or ye can try an slip through. We'll have the defenses not target ye, if you'll kindly give us some codes or identification for yer ship so we don't obliterate ye on sight. See ya soon, mate.

At 2/5/05 06:01 PM, Baderact wrote: Zanzibar smiles and nods. He leaves his room and hurries to find LeChuck in the missions room reviewing the most recent battle developments. Next to him Syrus is standing looking most impatient.
"LeChuck, you ok here? The tablet wants me to go somewhere for it." Zanzibar said as he slowly tapped the back of his hand onf the tablet. "Oh... and Syrus, gimme that staff."
LeChuck looked at Zanzibar and raised an eyebrow.

"Huh? Oh me, yes I'm fine. I just had to incinerate OP-16, but it was nice to see how our incinerators worked. It was magical."
*He smiled as if nothing had gone wrong, or as if they hadn't even lost a planet. It would be decades before it was back up to what it used to be, and inhabitable again. But LeChuck was willing to make that sacrifice. Nobody stole his booty.*
*Syrus shrugged.*
"Okey doke"
*In another blaze of fire, the staff reappeared in Syrus's hand. He handed it over to Zanzibar.*
"Oh, and hey, word on the street in Hell is Satan is preparing an army. Says the Dark Av's are getting psyched up, as if something were happening. I don't know what they might be all excited about, but he's summoning some creatures I haven't even heard of, and I've been around for quite some time. He won't chance a visit to this plane, but....well, he's really locking shit down down there."
*LeChuck grunted*
"To Hell with the Devil..." Syrus smirked, "We've got some plannin' to do. It's obvious the OWCA is turnin' on each other like a pack of ravenous dogs. The stink of fear is pungent. Zanz, we should strike now! With our forces completely unscathed, we could annhiliate half the OWCA in a week! Even without the Jovians..." LeChuck paused a moment as he thought of Mortis. Their friends recent death was still worthy of a moment of silence. All complied.*
"Listen, all we have to do now is just keep them out of the Inner Orbit and we'll be fine. We'll suffer no civilian casualties, and we'll be able to test that new harmonic shield disruptor."
*LeChuck quickly grabbed his comm.*
"How are those HSD's coming?"
Eng.: We've almost got half the fleet equipped, sir. The firing rate of the weapons using it will be slowed significantly, due to the amount of time it takes to recharge. But she'll work like a charm.
"Good. Keep going." LeChuck put away his comm and turned back to Zanzibar and Syrus. Zanzibar sighed and rubbed his hands together.*
"I am going now."
*LeChuck gave him one final stern look, but it quickly cracked into a smile.*
"Peace sucka"

*LeChuck laughed as he heard the report about the blockade being formed.*
"Ha! What are they gonna blockade?! Our wine that no longer comes from Jean's nonexistent planet?! Christ, they're in for a surprise..."
*LeChuck communicates with all his Generals on duty*
"Bring all citizens in the rim worlds safely within the Main Orbit. Glaze the rim worlds and prepare the Incinerators on them, set them to Active. Bring out warships out on the front in a defensive formation in front of the Inner Orbit, send at least 10, but no more than 100. I'll leave the numbers to your discretion. Keep the reserves on active duty and alert the transports and traders to take shelter on whatever planet is nearest, and not to come near."
*LeChuck's eyes danced over the monitors, cameras showing him the movement of the Corporate fleet, and the movement of his forces. An hour or two goes by.*
Gen: Incinerators active and prepared on the Rim Worlds, sir. All citizens evacuated and headed to the Inner Orbit.
*LeChuck smiled in satisfaction.*
"Good. Now leave them. I've got the controls from here. How are we doing on those outposts?"
*A different General's face appeared on a monitor.*
Gen: Sir, we've taken back the inner most outpost with ease, but had some slight difficulty with the first one they took. We were unprepared. It won't happen again.
"Yes, it better not. Or else you'll be a Private for the rest of your life. Are the Incinerators active on it?"
Gen: Yes! Yes sir, I made sure that our men at least did that before they....
"Yes yes, there are casualties in war, General, get used to it. Now, have our forces pull back at least 5 miles from that outpost."
Gen: Yes sir
"This'll be a surprise..."

*If Pirates knew one thing, it was protecting your treasure. Zanzibar and LeChuck had treated every planet in their domain as a priceless jewel. Yet since it had no real price value, it was either having it, or losing it. Being stubborn, they had installed massive Incinerators on each and every planet. When set off, they created massive walls of flame sweeping across the entire planet, turning it into one large burnt piece of charcoal. This would be their first time actually using it. LeChuck was nearly shaking with excitement. He entered the necessary codes and coordinates for the planet and dangled his finger above the red button, thinking what the corporate soldiers on the outpost might be doing just then. His finger came down.*
*Millions of miles away, a small planet suddenly blazed in several places like the brightest star. Yellow and orange waves could be seen passing over it, and within 5 minutes, it was entirely black. LeChuck gave a satisfied grunt as he watched the entire proceeding from a monitor.*
"Alright Arcturus...try taking some more planets..."

(Think like that planet in Chronicles of Riddick, where the prison is. That insane wall of fire and heat, but mostly fire.)

*The automatic defenses picked up the approaching Corporate fleet miles before they entered their space. The initial wave of fire was immense, equipped with the brand new harmonic-shield disruptor. Cruisers and battleships popped like balloons in space. Two minor outpost planets were taken, small barren moons, but 20 large craft and 1 million fighters were soon sent out to deal with the assault. As The Corporate fleet attempted to push farther into Tortugan space, 4 small planets started glowing. 4 cannon-like objects came from within, creating a box with inter-twining beams converging. The Corp fleet was caught right in the middle. The beam seared through shields and ships like butter, eliminating all the larger warships in one go. The million fighters took out the rest of what had survived.

*LeChuck nearly choked on his beer, but the report quickly came that the defenses had held up. The two outposts would soon be retaking, as they were cut off from reinforces and thoroughly outnumbered. LeChuck smiled.*
"I want all those men taken alive. We're going to torture each and every one of them for a year straight, 365 days. Perhaps some of the Corporate minions might become more hesitant to attack Tortuga..."

"Dammit!" LeChuck screamed as his mouth came back together. His eyes and nose were still reforming. "Fucking......I told him he should've come with us!"
*LeChuck grumbled to himself as his body finally came completely back together. He took a moment to think. He sighed.*
"We lost a good friend today. Seems they're in short supply....Come one, let's get out of here before they send a party to make sure we blew up."
*LeChuck grabbed Zanzibar's collar and zipped them through space. He couldn't go as fast as hyperspace, but he was very close.*

*When they finally reached Tortuga, LeChuck headed for his private Comm. Room. He sat in his large chair and grabbed a beer from his fridge. He sat back in thought.*

At 1/31/05 11:24 AM, Atomicus wrote:

alive only delays the problems I know my son will cause Atlas. My son may be working for him, but he's a power hungry fool. He will start a civil war doomed to fail, but in the process take away some of Atlas' power. So as much as I know you want to get it over with, you must wait. Unless you want Atlas to be strong enough to take on the Universe..."

But by all means, take the tail and get out of here. Before Atlas sees your attack coming.

*LeChuck stayed a moment, staring long and hard at Mortis. Finally he sighed and his face relaxed, looking remorseful.*
"My dear friend, we will..."
*LeChuck paused. His face froze*
"Some....one if trying to penetrate the illusion."
*The cane began to glow slightly red, a dull humming coming from it. LeChuck slowly looked down to it, then back up at Mortis.*
"It must be Atlas. If he's as powerful as a God, only he might be able to....oh shite."
*The cane glowed brighter. LeChuck looked worried, and he spoke quickly.*
"Mortis, we'll avenge your death. No matter how long it takes, I shall personally see Atlas dead at my feet. I promise not to hunt your son, but I will cut his throat if he steps to me. And we shall save your daughter...."
*LeChuck shuddered, and almost lost his grip on the cane.*
"Christ.....it's almost gone. Thank god I kept a hold, I still have our appearance illusion intact. We must go."
*The two rose, and LeChuck was a blur for a moment, and was right back where he stood, hold Mortis's tail in his hands.*
"Goodbye Mortis. May we meet again in another life."
*They turned and Mortis signaled they should allow them to leave. Since the guards were not aware of any problems, they escorted them out and to the stairs. As Zanzibar and LeChuck walked towards their ship, they turned to see the suns (moons? gah, sry) of Jovia II setting. In the light they saw the massive temple. LeChuck snarled and touched his leg.*
He's up there, Zanz, that motherless sonuva--
Calm yourself, LeChuck. Zanzibar sternly replied We must get out of here first. We do not know if his powers extend over ours. Until we are safely out of Jovia II we communicate no more.
*LeChuck shot him a look of death, but Zanzibar knew he would comply. The two calmly got in their ship, and with no fanfare or undue attention, blasted off of Jovia II and headed home.*

*When they reazched the borders of Jovian space, there was Syrus, waiting in a Jyeet Dart. LeChuck tore apart Mortis's tail, and within it was the staff. He removed it cautiously, noticing it's intricate design. It was tall, maybe 5-6 feet, with runes inscribed all up and down it. The bottom was flat, but small, as it thinned out. It widened towards the top, and at the top was a giant emerald, cut into the staff, and six thin lines of the make of the staff criss-crossed on top. You could barely make it each individual rune that was inscribed on the emerald in each section divided by the substance. Zanzibar's eyes widened.*
"That is one impressive artifact."
"Aye..." LeChuck muttered. He snapped out of his wondering stupor and contacted Syrus.
I'm comin' over
In a second he was out in space and across the short distance in the back seat of the Jyeet. He passed the staff up to Syrus.
"Take care of this, Syrus. We'll be in touch. If you need us at any time, do not hesitate. Matter of fact, keep me updated every so often, and don't fo---"
*LeChuck watched in horror as the staff suddenly burst into flames and disappeared. He practically strangled Syrus.*
"WHAT DID YE DO?!"
"Relax. I merely put it in a safe place. You think I'm gonna walk around with that thing in hand?"
*LeChuck slowly calmed down.*
"Where, Hell?"
"No, Heaven." Syrus said sarcastically. "Yes, Hell. It's safe, trust me. I've got a few places Satan doesn't bother to go. And no piddling demons go near it. It's all good. I can call it back anytime I want. Don't get your panties in a bunch."
*LeChuck punched him in the shoulder.*
"I'll bunch my panties up yer arse if ye keep bein a wanker. This aint a joke. That staff'll save the Jovians, not to mention a lot of the galaxy. Good luck."
*LeChuck zoomed out of the Dart and back into the Jovian transport. They had piloted it out of Jovia II alone, but no one seemed to care or stop them. LeChuck walked to the back of the transport to search for some liquor.*
"You won't find any back there. Jovian's drink that poison, remember?" Zanzibar said.
"Whaddya think I'm lookin' for?" LeChuck shouted back. He continued rummaging through barrels and crates. Suddenly he heard a faint beeping. His face was puzzled as he continued moving boxes, hearing the beep grow louder.*
"What's that sound?" Zanzibar asked, as he could hear it now. He got up from his seat, turning the ship on auto-pilot, and walking back to where LeChuck was. LeChuck was cursing to himself.*
"I dunno, but I gotta bad feelin.."
*As soon as he finished the word, he moved one last crate to reveal a large metal container. On it was a counter. The counter read 00:02.*
"Fuck" Zanzibar muttered.
*A beep later, and the ship detonated massively in space.*

*LeChuck jumped a moment as he watched Mortis drink the poisoned beverage, but realized he was far too old enough to make his own decisions, and merely shook his head.*
"Regardless, ye shouldn't be givin' up that easy. Yer dyin', this is true. But I died once before. It took em thirty cutlasses ta bring me down! I took 100 men with me to Hell before I died that day. This Atlas may be powerful, but ye should never give him the dignity of allowin' him ta thank yer stupid enough to drink poison."

*Zanzibar calmly placed a hand on LeChuck's shoulder. LeChuck was steaming. He grunted and kept his hands on his cane. What Mortis did not know was that LeChuck had been keeping one unbreakable illusion up: the illusion of his old appearance. Mortis was the first living creature to know of LeChuck and Zanzibar's new bodies and forms. Otherwise, to everyone else, they appeared the same old tall and skinny, short and fat. Zanzibar was able to draw some power from the cane, since he and LeChuck were connected through the necklace. But the cane linked them only partially. If Zanzibar got to far from LeChuck, the cane would not be able to keep up the illusion for them both.*

*LeChuck touched his crystal and contacted Syrus*
Where are you?
*Syrus replied*
I'm all geared up and headed towards Jovia II. I'll stop outside the system, like you said. And I've got the prototype on me, but I'm not so sure it's ready...
*LeChuck interrupted*
Well that's why we're having someone who can't exactly die and lose it test it for us! Wait for my command when you reach the coordinates
*Syrus was short*
You're in a bad mood. I'm busy now
*LeChuck growled and turned back to Zanzibar and Mortis. He tapped the cane and the illusion sprang up once again.*
"Sorry to interrupt the friendly conversation boys, but Mortis, we've got a man outside yer system, and hes ready to pick up that staff."
*LeCHuck jerked his head in the direction of Mortis's severed tail.*
"Is there anyway we might transport it immediately? I'm all for destroying Atlas ASAP an keepin' you alive. Stop drinking damned poison!"

At 1/29/05 12:03 PM, Atomicus wrote: That is all I can say... now, any questions before I can enjoy your company?"

*LeChuck was frowning. He grunted when Mortis had finished speaking.*
"Hunh......well, I won't pretend to like Atlas, an' I'd really just prefer ta kill him. But if ye say we need some staff and artifact or somethin', we'll believe ya a'course. Yes, now on to pleasure..."
*LeChuck rapped his fingers on the cane in a seemingly random pattern with no consequence. The cane hummed again, and immediately after a guard approached Mortis with some beverage. LeChuck made to scratch his leg and touched his crystal.*
This is bad, Zanz...Mortis is weak, an we dont know how long he's got. I'd like to take him with us back to the Kingdom, to ensure his safety. An I'd really like to just strangle his brat son.....you handle that staff. I'm not a huge fan of magic, this cane is way more than enough fer me. I'd like to get this Atlas out of the way as soon as possible. Lemme get Syrus on it....

*LeChuck broke off contact with Zanzibar and contacted Syrus. Syrus had been in the process of getting out of his ship in Tortuga, when he received LeChuck's message. He practically fell off the deboarding ladder, as he had been nervous when LeChuck might talk to him next. He still wasn't sure if he knew where he had been...*
Syrus, we 'ave another assignment for ye. We need ya to ue the stealth prototype and integrate it with yer suit. This next job we've got for ye is gonna be yer most difficult yet. It's a one man job, and stealth is the entire point. If yer caught, not many living creatures know yer associated with us, so ye can just disappear back into Hell real quick if anything drastic happens. Get ready for departure and stand by. We could need ye to leave immediately at any minute.
*Syrus sighed and lit a cigarette.*
Yea, sure Chuck. Oh, hang on............hey, one of these scientists just told me they finished uploading all known frequencies to the modified harmonics disruptor. They wanna test it, an get yer A-OK on it.

*LeChuck smiled*
Yea yea, tell em go ahead. Tell em I want em to find a way to immunize our shields against it.

*Syrus relayed the message. The scientist cursed and threw his clipboard against the wall. Syrus laughed.*
He doesn't seem too pleased. I think he may have just quit

*LeChuck was still laughing. Mortis and Zanzibar was chatting about old times.*
Ha, funny. Tell him I'll kill 'im if he does. An' if there isn't progress when I get back, I'll kill him twice. He should know I can do that.

*The man agreed profusely and ran back to the lab. Syrus chuckled.*
Right-o, cap'n. He's back on the job. Lemme know when you're ready. Out.
*Syrus walked back to his chambers to don his suit, and then headed to the lab to equip the newest stealth prototype.*

At 1/28/05 11:36 AM, Atomicus wrote: "Old friendsss... thank you for coming to see me, I feared you might not make it in time...."

*LeChuck gave a warm smile as he came to stop at the side of Mortis's bed.*
"We came as soon as we could, mate. We wouldn't miss this for the world."
*LeChuck accepted a chair that a soldier offered him, and took a seat as Zanzibar came and stood next to Mortis*
"We would never allow an old friend to pass without seeing them first. May you live many decades more. Lord knows you're one old tought sonuva bitch." Zanzibar smiled. He then took a seat next to LeChuck, both pirates very near to Mortis's bed, as they both knew his hearing had been failing him over the years. LeChuck placed his cane betwen his legs and rested his hands on the handle. As he did so, the cane gave off a brief glow, and a low ringing could be heard. LeChuck sighed.*
"Since this is my first time on Jovia II, and my first time within these walls, I apologize, but I felt it necessary to create somewhat of an illusion."
*LeChuck tapped the cane with his finger*
"This was something we found on our journies when the Ancients once lead us back to Earth in the lower sections. It possesses the shadow powers an...old colleague of ours once had. I don't use it often, since I'm not a huge fan of magic. But it has proved itself invaluable over the years."
*He shifted in his seat.*
"You're soldiers and caretaker see us now as having a joyous conversation about old times. Everything is as it should be, and only an Immortal might sense the veil. Since we know you have enemies close to you..." LeChuck didn't need to say 'your son', since all three knew..."I just figured better safe than sorry. You can say anything you wish without fear that someone other than ourselves might hear."

"Aye, do what ye must, Atomicus. It was good to meet ye. Hopefully we'll be seein' much more of ye in time. Good day."
*LeChuck and Zanzibar bade him goodbye and watched him walk off.*
"He reminds me very much of Lizordium." Zanzibar said quietly, still watching Atomicus walk off. LeChuck turned his eyes from Atomicus to look at Zanzibar.
"Really? He seems more...rigid, although not by much. I s'pose that's because he's only heard of us from Mortis and possibly others. Perhaps, and hopefully, he harbors good feelings and intentions towards us. I can only assume this is this case, bein' he's riskin' his neck for Mortis with us. I hope he doesn't suffer the same fate as Lizordium..."
*LeChuck's voice trailed off into silence, and the two exchanged a look before mutually deciding it was time they headed in to greet an old friend. They walked up the palace steps and inot the grand doors as they were opened for them.*

At 1/27/05 11:08 AM, Atomicus wrote: "I'm afraid that's all I can tell you for now. Mortis doesn't have much time, we should leave immediately. I recommend we take my shuttle, as it has diplomatic immunity. I believe the captain also recently installed a turbo-hyperspace relay, so that the trip doesn't take quite as long as it took me."

"Grand. Shall we?"
*Atomicus lead the way to the ship, where the three boarded. They took off immediately, and once cleared of Tortugan space (Certain magnetic fields and beams make it impossible to go into hyperspace within Tortugan boundaries), they blasted into hyperspace off towards Jovia II.*

At 1/26/05 10:12 AM, Atomicus wrote:

It has been some time since I have been able to call to you with the crystal. I am no longer strong enough use it, and I can no longer hear the beautiful ringing it produces. I have given it to my cousin's son, Atomicus as a show of faith. You can trust him, for it won't be long before I am no longer here. I am dying, albeit slowly, by the hand of my own son. It is my last wish that you help me stop Lord Atlas' evil plan. I hope that you might visit me before I die, and lose the throne to my traitor son. The tablet I last sent you has ancient text describing a kind of weapon capable of stopping Atlas, but I cannot decipher it, nor could I find other information on where it might be. I hope to speak with you again soon.
-Mortis Malikus, Rex of Jovia

Atomicus looks at LeChuck and waits.*

*LeChuck stops chewing as he reads the note. As he finishes, a sad look comes over his face. He puts the pad down as he stares off into space.*
"Betrayed by his own son..." He muttered. He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. He turns back to Atomicus.
"I am sad to hear Mortis is being betrayed by his own flesh and blood. 'Tis the worst form of treachery. I am glad Mortis at least has you to trust and confide in."
*LeChuck gets up and begins pacing. He produces a cigar and lights it. He puffs a few moments as he stands still, facing the wall. He turns back to Atomicus.*
"We've begun work on deciphering the tablet, but it will still be some time before we are able to fully understand and make use of it. However, in the mean time, it would be an honor for us to visit an old friend."
*LeChuck takes a few grapes from the platter and sips a bit more wine as he grabs his jacket (he got some clothes). He snaps, and the trays of food disappear. From the ground, the solid silver, engraved cane comes out of the floor. LeChuck grasps the handle and taps it firmly on the ground once. The cane seems to make a noise, but it can't be heard. More felt. LeChuck is ready.*
"Shall we leave immediately? Or is there more news to be heard? I would like to visit Mortis as soon as possible, as it sounds he does not have much time."

At 1/25/05 04:55 PM, -TheDoctor- wrote: *She cocks her head to one side*
Jabitha: And what is it you know about these matters anyway?

*Syrus smiles*
"Well, I'm not exactly an 'Authority' on the topic...."
*He paused for possible laughs. Seeing no one laughed, he simply continued*
"But I do know that the mention of the Dark Avatars to Satan made him almost fearful, if you can imagine Satan being afraid of something. I also stumbled across an area littered with OWCA corpses, obviously where they had attempted an excursion and failed miserably. I don't know what they may or may not have found, and I really don't know much more than that. All I do know for certain is that thes tablets are bad news, and if anything, they should be destroyed. If not that, than at least sealed awayy with loads of magic so that no one may tamper with them. I fear the OWCA may have some in their possession, after seing the carnage in that cave."
*Syrus suddenly twitched slightly.*
"Oh no.....I have to go. I may be back for later discussion. Just consider what I've said. If you need to contact me without going through LeChuck, who is quite upset with you at the moment, use this."
*He removed a small, blood-red crystal from within his pocket. He noticed them not eager to get it, so he slowly placed it on the floor.*
"It's a direct line of communication to me. I'll be in touch."
*Syrus walked over, pressed the rectangle, hopped in the Dart, and departed. He shot into hyperspace to return to Tortuyga as soon as possible,*

At 1/25/05 04:30 PM, -TheDoctor- wrote: *Lawrence recoils as he comes close to Syrus, Jabitha, who is accompanying him seems equally as startled. She mutters to Lawrence under her breath*
Jabitha: He is a minion of the devil.
Lawrence: I noticed.
*He touches the head of his amphistaff inside his robes*
Lawrence: First tell me what you want. I serve the Authority, so dealing with something like you is not high on my agenda.

*Syrus notices their reactions, and feels their holiness equally, and is not as surprised as he was already aware Lawrence served the Authority. He held up his hands in defense*
"I know we wouldn't necessarily work together, as our superiors are practically opposites in almost every aspect. However, I think we can both agree that the return of the Dark Avatars would benefit no one. Not God, and not the Devil. Believe me, Satan is pissed. But I'm more scared than pissed, and I've not only received orders to try and stop this, but I'm on an extreme rogue mission here. I shouldn't be dealing with you in reality, but I have to face the facts. Besides Navcom, you've studied the ruins and artifacts of the Avatars for centuries. You know what may be coming, I know you've seen, and possibly possess, some of the tablets. I mean no harm whatsoever."
*He lowered his voice, as if being listened in on*
"Im in some serious shit if I get caught, by either LeChuck or Beezlebub. So please, can we put aside our differences and consider working together to stop something we both don't want in this universe?"

At 1/25/05 04:04 PM, -TheDoctor- wrote:

*Lawrence picks up the transmission*
I assume you mean in person? If so then you may enter the main docking bay, and we can hear what you have to say.

"Perfect. I'll dock now."
*Syrus flew the Dart into the indicated docking bay and secured it. He exited, and with another touch of his finger to the rectangle, the Dart disappeared. With a quick movement of his hand the rectangle disappeared up his sleeve. He saw Lawrence and approached him.*
"What I have to discuss is about the Avatars. Neither LeChuck nor Zanzibar know I am here, so I prefer to keep this low-profile. I know you have the most information on the Avatars out of anyone in existence. Is there a more private place we might talk?"

*Syrus had located Lusankya, and popped out of hyperspace within sight of her. He was slightly startled to notice a space station nearby. He focused anbd tried to ignore the OWCA station as he contacted the Lusankya and drew nearer.*
"Lusankya, this is Syrus of the North-Western Kingdom. I come under no orders but my own, peacefully, and wish to meet with Lawrence, and Lawrence alone."
*Syrus made the Dart stop in space within distance of Lusankya, but with enough space for a quick retreat should she decide to fire upon him.*

*Syrus sat in his hospital room bed, staring at the wall. He had just finished his third barking order for more cigarettes. There was practically a layer of butts on the ground, and the attendants bringing him more cigarettes had taken to wearing gas masks when they entered the room now. They almost had trouble seeing Syrus, as the smoke was too thick, and heat sensors didn't pick up his presence. He finished another cig and put it out on his visible cheekbone; his newest nervous habit.*
*He was completely baffled as to how those visions had affected him. He had no brain. Or not a fully, normally functioning one. He was not affected by disease or sickness. He didn't even need to breath. His organs had rotted away ages ago. So how on Earth were those.....hallucinations, affecting him? There was only one possible solution, and it tied in with the girl that had tried to assassinate LeChuck and Zanzibar, and the tainted tablets that were floating around*
Dark Avatars
*Only they would've had the power, or even the residual power, to make Syrus see visions. They were related to the Devil in a sense, but even Satan didn't want them in Hell. They caused too much trouble, and sometimes tried to usurp Satans power; something which he was not particularly fond of. He had banished them from Hell, just as God, or the Authority, had banished them from Heaven. He had even banished them from this plane of existence, which was a blessing, naturally. But this meant that they were not only attempting to resurface, they were getting closer. Syrus grunted and got up to go somewhere.*
*Syrus walked down the corridor with a frown on his face. He was not pleased about what he was going to attempt to do, and he had to absolutely keep it quiet from LeChuck, who would've gone berserk if he found out where Syrus was going. Syrus walked straight to the nearest hanger on Barr and took out a small, rectangular piece of metal, seemingly useless. He pressed his thumb to it, and it glowed red. A Jyeet Dart appeared out of nowhere, and Syrus hopped in. He made sure the numerous layers of shields and magical resistances were removed before taking off. As he headed out of Tortugan space, he sighed to himself.*
Christ, I can't believe I'm going to go see Lawrence....But he's got the most information on the Avatars. I have to tell him what I found, and we need to figure out a way to stop this. I don't give a damn what rivalries are going on between Tortuga and EWCA or OWCA, whatever. If the Dark Avatars make it back here, none of those factions will even exist anymore.

At 1/24/05 10:13 AM, Atomicus wrote: "Mortis is not my father. Lizordium was my father. Mortis' sons remain with him on Jovia II. However I am also pleased to see you. I have much to tell you... Please, is there a place we can go to speak in private?"

*LeChuck shook his head and waved his hands in apology.*
"Ah, I'm sorry, Malikus."
*LeChuck got a wistful look in his eye.*
"Lizordium.....he was a fine....fighter. He died fer tryin' to help us, in the end. Was a good friend....Anyhoo, we can absolutely go to more private quarters. Matter of fact, I'll take ye to a room that nothin can get inside of without my express permission. It's unpossible."
*LeChuck winked and lead Malikus out of the hanger, down a series of hallways, until he finally stopped at a random point, standing in front of a solid wall. He turned to Malikus and grinned.*
"Here's where we go. If you'd kindly take ahold of me hand."
*LeChuck haled his hand out, and Malikus's massive, scaly hand closed around his.*
"Now we enter."
*In one quick movement, LeChuck brought himself and Malikus shooting through 13 feet of wall into a sizeable room with a large table and 20 chairs. When they were completely through, LeChuck let Malikus release his hand and steady himself, as he had just passed through solid matter, an activity that most living creatures were not used to. LeChuck took his seat, and seemingly from nowhere a tray of food came up from an opening in the table, laden with Jovian delicacies (you decide what they're named). Near LeChuck, a similar opening was created, and out popped an entire roast duck, with a decanter of rum aside it. LeChuck clapped his hands in pleasure.*
"Now this is a meetin'"
*He ripped off a wing of the duck and began chewing. After a moment, he set it down and poured himself some rum as he spoke.*
"So what's doin on Jovia II?"

At 1/20/05 05:22 PM, Atomicus wrote: *The small Jovian shuttle follows the escort to Tortuga. The honor-guard scolds the captain for a slightly jarring landing, but the Jovanite says nothing. The guard exits the small ship and gives the nearest Tortugan a message that the esteemed guest will await the arrival of his hosts.*

*LeChuck comes zooming through the doorway, and lets out an audible *whew*. He spots the Jovian transport and smiles. He is glad to see Jovians. He would've been happier to see his friend in person, Mortis. But his son would also do nicely. He hadn't met the runt yet. Although, calling him a runt was a tad insulting, he thought, being that he was most likely 3 feet taller than him. He shrugged away his thoughts and received the message from the docking station attendant. LeChuck shoved the man aside gently, so although the man cringed, he was only pushed a few feet. He stood shocked. LeChuck winked.*
"I'm practicing my touch for the ladies. Can't be hurtin' em like I do you schmucks."
*He turned his attention back to the ship and walked towards it jovially (har har).*
"Atomicus Malikus, son of Mortis! It is good to finally meet you. Your father is a very good friend of ours, and you shall be treated like a king while you stay with us. Is there anything we can get you at this immediate moment before we eigther begin discussions? Or perhaps you would like to retire to your room and rest before we begin?"