FEBRUARY FAN-FICTION AND EDITORIAL BONUS REWARDS

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY QUACKY FEBRUARY 2023!

January 2023 was a busy month as usual with the Fan-Fiction Contest and Sentinel editorials. We had many submissions and all have been rewarded. CONGRATULATIONS!

As it was with last month, ALL SUBMISSIONS TO THE SENTINEL PAGE that have been published will be assessed and given bonus rewards based on merit as follows:

PLATINUM: 6 to 7 Strange Fiction cards (only reserved for EXCEPTIONAL submissions)

GOLD: 5 Strange Fiction cards

SILVER: 3 to 4 Strange Fiction cards

BRONZE: 1 to 2 Strange Fiction cards

These rewards go out after the end of each month and are IN ADDITION to the usual Sentinel rewards from Daniel Andrade for published entries.

Here are the categories/prompts:

Category One:
REVIEWS/COMMENTARIES of ad hoc and regular events, including fan-fiction role play, etc.

Category Two:
GAME GUIDES, GEAR TALK, and other editorials about game mechanics.

Category OPEN:
What is your origin story? How did you end up in the Heroes Rising universe? (And any other Fan-Fiction.)



Just post your submissions to the Sentinel page as usual for Categories One and Two. To enter the OPEN CATEGORY post your entries to the Fan-Fiction forum with the following in the title: "FAN-FICTION CONTEST" and the title of your entry. Please also add a link to your entry in the Sentinel page so that we can monitor all entries.



Yours Quackily,
SQ

Continue the Story

Robert Steele's top 25 toons after LW

And here they are:

1) THE BIG SNAKE , HE MOVES AHEAD OF SLAGOTH FOR SHOWING THE DISCIPLINE TO NOT GIVE UP DEFENSIVE WINS.

2) §ﾚαgα†h⊕☈ ][.. Read above…but don’t ask him about it. He gets a bit defensive…

3) New Hanzo New Hanzo same as the old Hanzo.

4) Stink Fist . Can you SSSMMMMMEEEEELLLLLL what the Fist is Fisting?

5) Super Rakly He finally decided to level and a lot of toons will wish he hadn’t.

6) Skelly Animal. Back and brutalful as always.

7) Magnificent Punlurk Shall I dare say it… A Magnificent LW.

8) Heretic Another toon to unretire and quickly move back into the top 10. Don’t expect him to stop. The Avenger’s LW MVP.

9) Avenger He drops down after being the weakest link this LW . Wasn’t that show cancelled?

10) Death punch Talk about spiking the punch. Another fast riser as free toons start to dominate div 1.

11) Old Hanzo Just misses the top10 while being pretty much retired. . Seems to be going around.

12) Damon He was WMD’s MVP early with 5 defense wins but dropped down when WMD went 2-14 with 15 minutes left.

13) Chromatic Death. A little health and he could be dominating div 1. He gave up a lot of def wins. Was that a shaky finger?

14) Zen He flips off the opponents. Just don’t remind him of the drunken night with the Walrus.

15) Night Shadow Don’t forget to put the ninja on the list or he gets angry. You won’t like him when he is angry or when he’s not.

16) The Gentle man. What a misnomer.

17) BSC He slides down as he skips LW. Still a Hall of a toon.

18) Star Crawler Moves up as he keeps the same name for a record time. Name recognition is big. At least that’s what she said, about the name that is.

19) Hot Wings Rumors are heating up that he may be back soon after WMD laid an egg in the LW.

20) Martial Law Chaos was too much for the Law as he took the LW off.

21) Shadow Walker Drops down in the standings with a drop to Division two.

22) IboShin Gu Ninjas to the left of me , Ninjas to the right . Here I am stuck in the middle with GU.

23) The Island/Mayor He drops down to div two to avoid the curse of the cat. Talk about a pussy.

24 The Wizard. He drops down to div 2. There is no escape for the Mayor. The pussy took a pounding.

25) Dr. Silver Strange. He gives out prescriptions for pain killers. You will need them after fighting him

Avenger ID# 14779

Continue the Story

Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 14

 “You’re gonna pace until there’s a hole in the floor.” Arx said to Justin.

“The heroes have taken down several Shadow Krampus in Ka’an Dorado and he just keeps coming back. How can we send heroes in to help Director Nova if they keep fighting those shadow things?” Justin continued to walk.

Gar said, “Maybe Nova doesn’t need the help. EB and Quark are really powerful.”

“I don’t know. I just don’t like this. I feel...I feel strange.” Justin staggered and fell against a console as he gripped his chest.

Arx hit the deck on his knees and held his throat. “I...I can’t breathe...gah...” He gagged.

Gar panicked, “Justin, Arx! Someone help!”

A robot announced, “Calling Doctor Henderson.”

Gar turned around twice. “NightShadow?”

Nova’s voice burst through the comm, “JUSTIN!”

Gar grabbed Justin’s comm unit. “Director, Justin is on the floor in pain. I think he’s dying.”

The comm cut off.

“Director! Help!” Gar shook the comm device.

Dr. Henderson rushed in with an aide and quickly checked the two men. “This isn’t good. Arx is out, and Justin is...stay with me!” She pressed a device up against his neck. “I can’t get oxygen into him. Nothing is working. I don’t understand.”

Arx suddenly gasped and panted. “I...can’t...I can breathe. What...”

Justin did the same, gasping and then breathing as though he had just returned from drowning.

“Calm down, calm...” Dr. Henderson administered some medication and helped him sit up. The aide assisted Arx.

Two flashes of light appeared and both Quark and EB landed in the middle of the Operations center.

“Oh, my head.” EB flopped on his back. “That bitch, she got me.”

Quark turned into a toad, “Aw, crud. I almost croaked. Now, I’m a toad. Someone dump some water on me, or better yet, vodka.”

Justin stood with the help of Dr. Henderson. “No time for jokes, Quark. What happened?”

Quark, still a toad, answered, “I’m not entirely sure. She had control of everything. It was a plan. She knew we would come and Nova would try to use the heroes as a backup. She demanded Nova’s obedience. In exchange, she would spare our lives. I sorta lost focus after I heard all that. I guess he agreed to her demands, otherwise would likely be dead.”

“NOT A CHANCE!” EB roared and then grabbed his forehead. “Oh, no yelling until this headache goes away.”

“Where’s my comm?” Justin looked at his wrist.

Gar handed it back.

Justin clicked it on. “NightShadow? Where are you?”

NightShadow’s voice came through. “I was outside, checking on my defenses against the void, and something grabbed me. I couldn’t move, couldn’t use my powers. It was like I was frozen. I was just released. What the hell is going on?”

“Get in here. I think our plans just went down the toilet.” Justin changed the comm line. “Agent Justin to Krystal Fae, report?”

Krystal flew hard toward the looming shadow Krampus that swiped a massive claw at a dozen heroes. She spoke into her wrist comm, “This is the seventh Krampus I’ve fought so far. There’s another on the other side of town. Midgard is...” She dove and then zoomed hard to avoid a spray of energy from the monster’s eyes. Once stable, she continued, “Midgard is taking on a third in the Market District. I hate to say this, but we are hardly able to keep this city from being damaged.”

“Our priority is stopping Lady Echidna. Do what you can to move heroes toward the Capitol.”

“That may not be possible.” Krystal cringed when a massive explosion rocked the city behind her.

“What was that?”

Looking back, she smiled, “Looks like Midgard just smote another Krampus and I’m not seeing it reforming. And...” A second explosion echoed across the country, “there goes number two. All that’s left is the one in front of me.”

“Take it down and then get to Nova now. His life may be in serious danger.”

“Understood.” Krystal charged at the last Krampus while every other hero in Ka’an Dorado converged on the beast.

Punches, kicks, rocks, cars, and anything else joined hundreds of energy beams, bolts, and blasts the heroes could throw. This last Krampus exploded in a ghostly mist.

“Done.” Krystal said and clicked on her comm, “All heroes, to the Capitol Building.” She led the charge, only to find a new Shadow Krampus form as they approached the square in front of the Mayan pyramid shaped building. “This...isn’t right.”

The heroes went to work attacking it. Midgard body slammed it and ripped the shadowy head from the body and threw it away. It was a quick battle, but just as the heroes tried to cross the square again, another Krampus formed.

“Wait!” Krystal called out. “There’s something wrong.”

“I ENJOY MAULING THIS JERK!” Midgard yelled.

Krystal said, “But, he isn’t attacking... he’s just standing there.”

“What’s going on?” Justin asked into his comm.

Krystal came through. “Every time we defeat Krampus and then approach the Capitol Building, another Krampus forms. These are... not as strong as the others. It’s like a defender who can’t be beat, but isn’t really that strong. We can’t kill it, but we can’t get past it.”

“This isn’t right.” Quark said, still a toad on the ground. “Lady Echidna is just holding us back, keeping us from getting to Nova.”

“What’s she doing to my Buddy? I’m gonna go in and stop her myself!” EB hopped toward the lift.

“Wait!” Justin said.

“No. That bitch is just keeping us away. She’s doing something terrible to my bestest friend and I won’t have it.” EB jumped up and slapped the control to call for the elevator.

Justin said, “Look, I’m pissed too. But running head first at this won’t do much good. We have to plan.”

“So, we’re going back?” EB came back to Justin in a flash.

Justin nodded. “Yes.”

“She’s so strong. This may not be a good idea.” Quark said in a strangely croaky voice.

Justin straightened up. “While Nova is away, I’m in command. I say we organize ourselves and rescue our leader and friend. We’ve faced demons, monsters, dragons, and time itself. This creature calling herself Echidna is just another villain to be vanquished. She raised the stakes when she stole Nova, and I won’t have it. Quark, pull yourself together and work with NightShadow. We have to disrupt her power over the void. Arx, Gar, I want you to...”

The lift opened, and Chase stepped out with Santa at her side. She was pale and had to use her father’s arm to keep standing up straight.

“CHASE!” EB bound over to her and was hugging her leg.

She smiled at the affectionate bunny, but then gave Justin a grim look. “I know what you're doing. Nova told me you would. But you cannot do this.”

“What are you talking about?” Justin asked.

Chase kindly removed the bunny and then worked her way down to the front of the room with Santa’s help. “Nova connected with me while I was in that coma. He gave me knowledge about him, about this woman, and about his plan. He knew she would want him, need him to come to her side. Her love for him is psychotic. Using that, he would bargain for our freedom, for my life. But, he said to me, if I woke and he had not returned, to keep everyone from going to his rescue.”

Gar asked, “Why? We love him too. He’s our family.”

Chase went silent as she processed her thoughts. “He told me everything. He showed me his history. I’m still sorting it out. It’s like a nightmare I’m trying to piece together after waking. What I learned is what she is and who He is. Nova... he’s nothing we imagined. Both him and this woman are powerful beyond measure. If we go to his rescue now, we’ll all die. None of us is truly ready to face her.”

Justin asked, “That’s it? He commanded us to abandon him?”

“No.” Chase said, “He saved me, but we must now save the world. His last command he wanted me to convey to everyone is this; be clever.”

Continue the Story

THE BIG BRAWL: THE CHAMPIONS

BY: Todd Goode id# 12205

Welcome back everybody to the final round of The Big Brawl. Papabiche has had a great time, "Vodka for everyone!" It's been nonstop slobber-knockin here in the final round of the Big Brawl. It had almost everything.

Besides all of the fireworks of battle, one fighter lost an eye, but he was able to grow back a new one. He got fresh with Mama-san Chiaki. Never get fresh with Mama-san Chiaki. Gets me a bit riled up.

Then another fighter made a wager and unfortunately lost. He couldn't cover his bet, so I had to collect his Quick Draw legs as payment. He's a bit shorter but it's okay, he says he has another set.

There was one guy whinny with crooked lips that just couldn't be satisfied. He got all prissy and broke the new glassware that Miggy paid for. Guess he didn't get my memo. Well, that whinny dude has something to whine about now. He's still in the corner recovering from the Kancho he caught but that's enough about the fun I had. Let announce the champs decided by round 3 battles.

In division 1, WMD and Chaos Theory had a tight battle all the way up to the end of the round but in the final moments, Chaos Theory blitzed WMD with multiple wins while WMD had some key losses. I guess WMD missed the lesson on chaos theory in school. Chaos Theory takes WMD back to class and claim the gold 96-77. I'm sure WMD will return stronger than ever but as of now, they just got schooled.

Division 2 sees the Angels of Sorcery draw the Big Bang Theory for the championship round. Angels of Sorcery need to check their spell books for better spells as the Big Bang Theory explodes in their space. The Angels get burned as they gave up quite a few defensive wins giving Big Bang Theory the win with an 86-21 victory. Angels go boom. Big Bang gets gold.

In division 3, COLONY 5¹ shuts down Tygger's Freak Show with a decisive victory, 175-5. They really had the Tygger by the tail and pulled hard. COLONY 5¹ team captain is reported to have said, HONK HONK ... HONK HONK HONK .... HONK HONK HONK HONK. I don't know what that means but everyone got pebbles and COLONY 5¹ get gold.

The seraphim Angels get their wings clipped in division 4 as the Fortess of Solitude take the win 68-11. Fortess of Solitude take the gold and the wing clippings. That 'My Pillow' guy will pay them a fortune.

In division 5, Outlaw Inc. shoots up the SOB Hunter/Killers 65-0. That's more of a hold up really. Outlaw Inc. steals the gold from those SOB's 65-0. Well. that don't look right but I ain't fixing it.

The W.a.r.e.h.o.u.s.e couldn't shuffle up and deal with a Stacked Deck in the third round. I don't know if they deal off the bottom, but the Stacked Deck gets the gold in division 6 this hand, 109-40.

ᐯI ᗰᗩᖇᗩᑌᗪEᖇS dismantle the ᗷOᗰᗷ❌Sᑫᑌᗩᗪ 1, 38-11. Maybe ᗷOᗰᗷ❌ just needed a bigger wick. ᗷOᗰᗷ❌ don't go boom! ᐯI ᗰᗩᖇᗩᑌᗪEᖇS wins gold in division 7.

In division 8, Pain Inc. tells Cobra Kai, "You should have used that fancy Crane Kick Daniel showed ya." Oooh! Too soon. Cobra Kai rolls in pain and Pain Inc rolls in gold with a 48-5 victory. Next time, spring for the J.C. Penny black belt.

ᗷOᗰᗷ❌Sᑫᑌᗩᗪ 2 have better luck in division 9 as they take the gold over the MacGregors!!, 45-2. Big wicks hanging out all over the place. Ya'll need to put those away, Its cold out here.

In division 10, SUFFERING rules over 9PLANETS ORBITING, 46-35. SUFFERING takes the gold and now Pluto feels bigger than ever. Don't blame me, Neil Degrasse Tyson said it, not me.

In division 11, Team Cold give the Raiderettes the shivers, and lock out the Raiderettes, 3-0. Team Cold get their first gold. Well done Team Cold. Now put a coat on.

Finally, in division 12, SOB♆ ภєรՇ ๏Ŧ שเקєгร bite the Ivalice Alliance and win the gold,13-0. Ivalice Alliance might want some anti-venom, that bite is gonna leave a mark.

Altogether, I gotta say, "This has been a pretty good first Brawl. It's something new. Let's pour another vodka or four and all raise your glass to the new guy for trying something new and congratulations to all the big winners getting that gold but watch your backs because I hear tell, that everyone is coming for your gold in the next league wars. I say they are all winners but that's just me. Take it from Ole Papabiche, train hard, help each other out and if you break any glasses, you might wanna tighten up. Good night fight fans. This is Papabiche, taking the vodka bottle. Party on Garth.

Continue the Story

Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 13

 Agent Justin and Arx stood with Gar in the Operations center of the BADGE station. They watched with no small amount of dread in their eyes as the ethereal monolithic Krampus loomed over Ka’an Dorado. The BADGE drones keeping an eye on this were far above the city so that they could see from border to border of the city itself, and this only enhanced the surreal nature of the monster.

NightShadow stepped out of the lift. “I’ve secured the space around the station. If anyone tries to use shadow powers to spy on us, they will be blinded.”

Justin asked, “Do you know if anything else has come through?”

“I can’t be certain. I don’t know when this Lady Echidna came through. But it is so small now that it would need to be widened if anything tries to enter this reality.”

Arx said, “I get the feeling this lady doesn’t want to get anywhere near that hole in space again.”

“That’d be my guess.” Justin said. He looked at Gar. “Where is the shuttle now?”

Gar looked at a special tablet that was built with top security. “The shuttle has landed near the palace.”

“Okay, that’s our cue. 10915 activate the Black Alert Comm line.”

The lights changed color to a red hue and a beeping sounded to indicate the top-level alert status. Comm windows opened to League HQ’s all over Earth. Some had people already there to take this call.

“This is Agent Justin. We have a situation in Ka’an Dorado. Another Shadow Krampus has shown up, and this time, he’s much bigger and stronger than any other before. You are to go in and strike it down. Once you have completed this task, you are to proceed to the Ka’an Dorado capitol building and lend assistance as necessary. You will be given further instructions once you have entered the Capitol building. Remember, BADGE wants minimal property damage, but your focus is taking out this Shadow Krampus. For the duration of this battle, Director Nova is unavailable. I will be in charge of BADGE. Agent Justin out.”

Gar said, “That was good.”

Justin whispered, his eyes quivering at the ominous sight before him. “God, I hope this works.”

Nova walked into the capital building of Ka’an Dorado with Strange Quark on his left and EB on his right. Men and women dressed in elegant outfits lined the hall as a greeting. No AMA weapons were present, only party guests.

“Wow, that’s creepy.” EB stated when all the men and women slowly turned to look at them. Masquerade masks still on their faces.

Nova said, “She was always one for making an impression. Ignore them. She has no intention of attacking us now.”

Strange Quark waved his hand over his face and created a duck-style mask that resembled theirs. When Nova gave him a slanted glare, he smiled. “Hey, just thought I’d try to fit in.”

Before Nova could scold him for this, that sultry voice echoed down the corridor. “Welcome home, sweetie.”

It did not rattle Nova. At least he didn’t show any emotions to this, but his focus was all the more determined.

EB hopped along beside him, an explosive egg in his paw. “She looks nothing like the woman we fought before. I didn’t even know it was her. She’s a lot sexier now, in an evil villain that might eat your soul kinda way. But, still hot.”

They were let into the throne room by two men who opened the doors for them. Lady Echidna was draped across the throne, smiling at them. “How nice of you to say, Easter Bunny, or is it EB these days?”

“Look, darling, you can call me whatever you want. I’m still gonna shove this right...”

Nova stopped him. “I’m here. If you think this changes anything, you’re wrong. I still protect this world from the likes of you.”

“Oh, so you are still the champion of this little race of children. Sad. You are worthy of so much more. Once, you recognized that.” She beckoned to one of her servants, who rushed to give her a glass of wine.

Nova said, “I don’t have time to play your games. Give me back Chase, let her go and I’ll consider not shoving you into the void again.”

She sipped some wine and smiled. “Do you know what it was like, all those years, in the vast nothingness between realms? Terrifying, and a little sweet. I learned a great many new tricks there, things that even the great...what do you call yourself these days...Nova, don’t know about.”

Nova looked around the room, “I command you to submit! Obey me!” His voice became a booming echo that rattled the walls. Only EB had ever truly experienced this power of his before. Strange Quark was a bit befuddled.

The surrounding minions were swaying, and some held their heads in confusion. Lady Echidna merely sipped a little more wine and then said, “So, that was your game? You come in here and expect to erase my control over my new army. Like I even needed them.”

EB chortled. “That’s not our only plan, babe. We’re so far ahead of you!”

“Are you now?” She sat up and set the glass back on the tray of her servant, who had regained his vacant look. “You mean the other plan to attack my pet Krampus with all your heroes and then overtake me and force me to give you back Chase before shoving me into the void? That plan?”

EB stopped smiling, “Uh...no...that’s not our plan...um...”

She rose and swept over to Nova. “You think I’m not prepared for your little tricks and tactics? I’ve been preparing for this day for the past five hundred years. I have every moment meticulously planned out. Want to see how far you are from being able to defeat me? Watch!” She waved her hand and clouds of darkness formed in the air, each containing a view of the outside.

Heroes stormed in and attacked the Shadow Krampus. The fight was raging and Midgard eventually slammed the giant figure against the ground, which was followed by hundreds of energy blasts that destroyed the creature. EB was already celebrating when two more Shadow Krampus rose in the city and went after the heroes.

She whispered in Nova’s ear, “They can summon him again and again, and they will continue to defeat him. But, he will return. They will spend hours, days, even weeks hoping to defeat him but they will fail in the end. Even the strongest heroes you have cannot last forever, but my pet has no end. You lose.”

Nova grabbed her by the throat and spoke with that commanding voice. “YOU WILL OBEY ME, YOU WILL SUBMIT TO ME!”

She smiled and laughed at him. “You forget, sweetie, you could never control me.” She vanished and reappeared a few feet away from him. “But I certainly can control you.”

Nova pointed at her. “I’ll never obey you!”

“Oh, then watch them die.” She returned to her throne.

Nova heard gagging sounds and realized that his two companions were on the floor, clutching their chests. “EB! QUARK!”

EB’s eyes rolled back into his skull while Quark transformed into several creatures, each one in the same agony.

“They will die. I could have killed them the first time, but I chose to let them bring you to me. All those I touched with my power before have the darkness seeded into their hearts. In moments they will die, as will your precious Chase.”

Nova slapped the comm unit on his arm, “JUSTIN!”

Gar came through, “Director, Justin is on the floor in pain. I think he’s dying.”

Nova flicked it off and asked, “What do you want from me? Please, don’t do this!”

“Begging. That’s a pleasant start. Oh, how I missed being able to bring you to your knees. But, I’m also not unreasonable. My demand is very simple, Nova, sweetie. Return to my side. Obey as you once did. Then, they will be released. Be quick about this. They don’t have much time.”

Nova felt something he had rarely felt in his life. Helplessness. When he heard EB gasping for breath, he knew he had no choice. “Fine...I’ll join you.”

“Say it.” She demanded.

“Let them go, first. And, I will say it.”

She smiled, “I know you to be a man of your word. Do not disappoint me.” She snapped her fingers and both EB and Quark gasped in a breath and then were transported away in a flash of black mist. “Now, say it!”

He stood firm and clenched his fists. “I will...worship you.” With those words, he became as vacant as the other minions.

Continue the Story

Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 12

 Nova walked into the command level conference room. Arx, Strange Quark, and Gar were already present. From another door walked in Agent Justin with EB.

“The plan is perfect.” EB said right away.

Nova nodded. “We hashed out some good ideas down in the mess hall. Now, I have formed a complete plan from them. Right now...”

Just then, another person walked into the room. The hooded dark figure of NightShadow.

“Ah, NightShadow, good.” Nova walked him with a firm handshake.

NightShadow looked around the gathering. “Glad to be here. I hope you aren’t expecting me to have information about the Shadow Krampus. I already spoke with Investigator Barnaby about it. I don’t know much. The shadow energy it was made from was similar to the Darkness, but not quite the same. I...”

“Thank you, but that’s not why I called you.” Nova directed him to a seat. “I have a special request for you.”

“What?”

“I’ll get to that in a moment. Just listen to the situation, which will explain most of what you’ll need to understand before I ask what I need to ask.” Nova stood at the front of the room and turned on the monitor. An active video feed from the capital of Ka’an Dorado displayed the monstrous figure of Shadow Krampus looming over the city. “This is the current situation down on the planet. A Shadow Krampus bigger and more powerful than any others has appeared and is waiting.”

“Waiting?” Gar asked.

“Yes. You all know that Lady Echidna summoned this thing, but she has not set it on the war path yet. It’s merely her guard and insurance that I obey her.”

NightShadow asked, “Who is Lady Echidna?”

EB said, “Nova’s wife....or Ex-Wife, I’m not sure.”

“WIFE!” NightShadow blurted out.

Nova said, “For another time. Right now, the most dangerous person I can imagine is waiting for me to come and talk with her. She knows that there are thousands of heroes who will come to my call, so she has set this guardian to ensure that only those she desires stand before her. And if I should try to overpower her, I would be alone. But, I have another idea. I’m going to meet with her and I know what she wants. But, I’m not going alone. Strange Quark and EB will go with me, as they are strong enough to stand against her. She won’t perceive two others with me as a risk. She has a whole hoard of minions at her command. However, at the same time, Gar, Arx, Justin, you will summon the heroes of Earth and tell them to take down Shadow Krampus. He isn’t moving, but they can provoke him.”

Justin spoke up, “Sir, I know we talked about this part of the plan in the mess, and I still don’t agree. They constantly blame BADGE for collateral property damage, not to mention risk to lives. Why provoke an attack when there is no attack happening on the enemy’s part?”

“Because the true enemy is not the forty story Krampus in Ka’an Dorado. The enemy is Lady Echidna. She is ten times more dangerous than that shadow monster. I’ll distract her while the heroes battle that thing and bring it down. Once she’s deprived of her guardian, the heroes can come to my side and we will force her back out of this reality. That’s where you come in.” He looked at NightShadow.

“Me?”

“Yes. More than five hundred years ago, I, with the help of some friends, removed her from power by forcing her into the void. That tear in space created by the Darkness last year allowed her to return. I mean to fix that problem.”

Strange Quark said, “I like the idea, I really do. But she is horribly powerful.”

“Yes, she is. There are a few who can resist her power, and I’m one of them. Besides, I know she’s weaker now since she has only just returned. Her power is growing and we need to do this before she becomes a serious problem.”

NightShadow asked, “What do you need me to do?”

“I need you to watch over the tear in space from here. Also, use your special connection to the void to keep this station and BADGE from her watchful eye. She has already proven capable of spying at her leisure. That ends now.”

“I can do that.” NightShadow said.

Nova stood up and fixed his gloves. “Justin, take Gar and Arx and rally the troops. Do not engage until after I have landed and am talking to her. I don’t want her to know what we are up to. Strange Quark, EB, you’re with me.”

Quark stood up and said, “Say the word and we’ll be on her front doorstep.” He had his hand up, ready to snap his fingers.

“No. No teleportation. She’ll sense that right away. Besides, we need to give Justin time to get this message out.”

EB jumped up and ran across the table. “Nova, buddy, don’t go. I can take her. I won’t be bamboozled again...I promise. Quark can even take your form and fool her long enough for me to feed her an egg filled with...”

“You know how clever she is. You know she’ll see through any ruse that isn’t me.” Nova said.

EB pouted. “I just don’t want you to go. She is soooo mean.”

“I know exactly how cruel she can be. But I can deal with her. You and Quark get the shuttle ready. I’m going to take care of something.”

The hushes of a breathing machine softly broke the deathly silence of the infirmary. Dr. Henderson had to put Chase on life-support as her body was slowly shutting down.

“Nova?” Santa looked up from where he had fallen asleep watching his daughter.

Nova walked over to Chase’s bedside and looked down at her. “I’m going to save her life, my old friend. I promised I would take care of her when you first sent her to me, and I mean to see that to the bitter end.”

“You’re going to confront that demon?” Santa asked.

Nova nodded, “Yes. I have to.”

“Are you sure she’ll give Chase back?”

Nova shook his head. “I don’t know. But, I have to try.”

Santa stood up and walked over to Nova. “Why? Every time this witch gains power, you take it personally. It’s like you’re repaying a debt, but I don’t see the debtor?”

“The debt I owe is far older than you, Santa. You do not know what I did. If it weren’t for me, this witch would never have gained the power she has. Every time she rises to power and begins killing people, their blood is on my hands. I will not allow Chase’s blood to stain my hands while I live. I would rather die.”

“I’m coming with you.”

Nova smiled at Santa, “I would welcome your support, but I need you to stay out of this.”

“What?”

“I need to know that you are safe here, watching her and BADGE. I know you never wanted to play hero, but I need you to be strong in case...in case I don’t make it. Besides, I’m taking EB with me.”

“But, EB is not a military leader. I was the Grand Admiral of the Vexillian armies.”

Nova laughed, “True. But EB helped me vanquish this witch once before.”

“He did? I didn’t know that.”

“It’s a long story and I don’t have time to tell it. I just needed you to know I’m going and if I succeed, Chase will wake.”

“I will do as you ask. But I still think I should go instead of EB.”

Nova looked back, “Could you grab me a cup of coffee from the waiting room? I could use a hot drink before heading out.”

“Sure.” Santa left the room.

Nova put his hand on Chase’s head, “This is for if I don’t return, but you do.” He closed his eyes and waited a moment.

“What are you doing?” Santa was now standing next to Nova.

Nova gently removed his hand. “Just wishing her well. Thanks.” He took the coffee and walked out of the infirmary.

Continue the Story

THE BIG BRAWL: ROUND 2 HIGHLIGHTS

BY: Todd Goode id# 12205

Hello folks! This is Papabiche back for round 2 coverage of The Big Brawl. It's been an exciting round. Its been fun to watch all the supers punch and kick and scratch with the occassional eye gouge, toe stomp and some slaps to the nads thrown in for good measure, but before we get started on the highlights, I gotta bone to pick with a certain Mid ... Midgar ... Midgardsumthin or other.

However you say his name.

I don't care how many times you slapped Shadow Krampus, you smash another glass and that's gonna be your asp! You'll be buying a whole new set and if you wanna fight about it, well, you're gonna learn the hard way.

You don't want me to use the finishing move Mama-san Chiaki taught me. It will leave you in the fetal position, balled up in a corner like a little salamander. Mess around and smash another glass and you gonna catch the kancho cloaca. You won't even see it coming.

Hanzo, who was also setting at the table, spit his drink out, wiped his mouth and said with a snicker, "Miggy, yeah. You don't want that. Just calm down and buy the man a new set of glassware, apologize and don't break anymore so we can get on with the highlights."

Miggy calmed himself enough to say, "Whatever!" and passed me a small wad of cash along with a 'kinda sorta' apology.

With a mutual respect, I do a small bow to Hanzo and thanked him for his warning to Miggy.

Now that we got that little bit of business out of the way, on with the show highlights. First round of vodka is on me. Drink up and enjoy the highlights of round 2 of The Big Brawl. Here are my favorites.
In division 1, CHAOS THEORY demolishes Area51 New Order 124-0, while the Super Freaks got some impressive wins on WMD, they retaliate as usual and smash the Super Freaks 144-9. Round 3 will be the brawl we all want to see.

Miggy being Miggy, hollars at Hanzo, "Hey Hanzo! What exactly is a kancho cloaca?"

 
"You don't wanna know. Just watch the show," replied Hanzo.

Division 7 had a couple of knock-down drag outs and by that, I mean, VI Marauders did the knockin down and The Star Force caught the drag out right out of the arena. VI Marauders take their second-round victory, 73-52.

 
Meanwhile, Miggy keeps pestering Hanzo for an answer to his question and Hanzo says nothing, again. "I wanna know." Miggy says.

 "No you don't." replied Hanzo.

Also in division 7, in another close battle, IɳʄECTEƊ 5¹ defeated B๏wʈIΣ Karaoke by the slim margin of 10. B๏wʈIΣ gonna need a few anti-biotics to get over a 51-41 loss. Look out for these two teams to be top contenders in the future.

"Tell me Hanzo, I wanna know!" 

Hanzo replied in an aggravated sort of tone, "NO MAN! LEAVE IT ALONE!"

Finally, in division 11, The Raiderettes kick their way to a victory dance against Los Jefes 38-35. TOUCHDOWN! RAIDERETTES!

Well folks, that was ole Papabiche's picks for the best fights in round 2. They were all great fights. Rest up for the finals of round 3. That's where the real slobber knockin starts. Good night, everybody.

"For the last time Hanzo, tell me what a kancho is or so help me, I'm gonna give you a busted lip!"

 
Hanzo sighs heavily and drops his head. "Okay then, if you gotta know. Lean over here and I'll whisper it in your ear. A kancho is a ........."

Miggy's eyes got really big, and his facial expression turned pale green with surprise and maybe a little fright. He stood up and squeezed his cheeks and walked away in rare form repeating the same thing, "Nope".

 
Everyone else at the table started to laugh out loud as Miggy walked away. As they all heard what Hanzo whispered because Hanzo ain't the best at whispering soft. Who knows, maybe he whispers loud to get laughs.

Continue the Story

January Fanfiction Joan of Arc: THE DEVIL'S Advocate

ID: 35981

“We need to get to 1 PP now.” Said, Danny. Another officer approached,” will call another detective to take a look at the scene and will take care of things here, go.” Danny and I ran back to the car. As we drove, I wondered where could all those kids be, they could be anywhere. We arrived and rushed in and got in the elevator. We were greeted by a grey-haired man with a mustache and suit jacket and a cane in one hand. “Dad you here good have heard anything.” “No haven’t I contacted all my old contacts and Cis see have any leads on where our precious Michelle is.” Your old man still got it after retiring from being commissioner all those years ago. “We walked to room Jamie was at the table tear eyed and a blonde woman in a police uniform sitting next to him holding his hand. We sit down. “We haven’t heard anything and our sister and good old tony putting the kidnapper to the screws, that you arrested earlier.” “Those bastards will pay to wish we weren’t flying blind we are missing something.” Then it came to me. “It may be a long shot but the kidnapper’s lawyer seemed too suspicious by the conversation they were having on the phone.” “He did but unfortunately won’t get anywhere the lawyer will not talk to us, client confidentiality.” I see.” The blonde lady sat up. “Honey, what are you thinking? “We could ask Erin to reach out to some of her lawyer friends to see what they can dig up on this lawyer.” As she got her phone out. “Not bad idea Eddy.” Said the man with the cane. “Oh, I apologize you must be Joan I’m Frank sorry to meet you under such circumstances.” “Ok got ahold of her what was that lawyer’s name?” “Mr. Nahash.” Said, Danny. “Hello I was wondering if you can do some digging on a possible lawyer Mr. Nahash, Lucian Nahash, I see thank you please let us know if find out anything.” “Ok, Erin said he’s a new big-time defense attorney who has recently been causing a lot of problems with overturning several big cases and people getting away with murder.” “Wow sounds like this guy is a silver tongue devil.

Just then a man came running in.” A Seraphim Guard Operative on the phone for you commissioner.” “Really what for I have important things going on right now?” “He has information for our case, sir.” “Really give it here.” “I see they are using an old abandoned subway station as their hideout really; how did you find this out?” a homeless person. “You want to talk to Joan she is right here?” Jamie handed the phone they want to talk about details important to the case. I picked up the phone. “Hello,” “Joan this is very important the man behind the kidnappings is no man he is a crossroad demon.” “A type of demon that specializes making in making deals with people that are used further his evil agenda.” “Okay, I’ll be extra careful thank you for the information.

“Okay let me call in some units and have SWAT on standby.” Said Jamie as he started radioing the address and delegating units to the location. I got up to go when I was approached by Jamie. “You’re coming with my detail to the location Danny, Eddy you are coming too will discuss strategy on the way. To be continued ...

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Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 11

 Nova ran from his office when a warning buzzer sounded. He skidded into the center of the Operations center.

“Report?”

Gar pointed at the screen. “The robots detected a cloud over Ka’an Dorado?”

Nova looked, praying this was just a storm moving through the area. Instead, he found a strange black cloud building over the city, directly over the Capitol building. “What do we know?”

10915 answered, “Particle density indicates that this is not a natural weather phenomenon. Sensors are detecting the same energy signatures as the other Shadow Krampus events.”

Nova paced as he watched this. “I don’t like this. Is it taking a shape, is it Krampus?”

“A humanoid shape is forming in the cloud now. Energy signature is growing. It has already surpassed the size and strength of known energy signatures.”

Gar asked, “What does that mean?”

Nova looked at the data read-outs. “My god. This is already more powerful than the Shadow Krampus we last saw, and it took Midgard to take him down.”

The doors of the lift opened, and EB blasted out, running into Nova. He was hugging the director’s leg. “I’m so happy to be back here. She was crazy!”

Strange Quark led Krystal Fae, Arx, and Agent Justin down a bit slower than the hysterical bunny.

Nova looked at them with shock and a little irritation. “What are you doing back here? Did you make it to Ka’an Dorado?”

Quark nodded, “Yeah. We made it alright.”

Agent Justin came around to stand in front of Nova. “The situation there was completely unexpected. Some woman is in control of the World Corps soldiers and probably the rest of the nation. She has some kind of mental altering ability. If Strange Quark hadn’t been able to break her power, we would’ve fallen victim to her control.”

EB bawled, “I was so scared I would never see you again. She is a scary, mean, nasty woman. I mean, like a total witch. Promise me you won’t go! She is horrible!”

“What are you babbling about?” Nova demanded.

Krystal Fae stepped over to him. “Sir, this woman isn’t just another meta human. In fact, I have no idea what she is. Her power was...terrifying. I have never sensed a more cold, cruel heart. Even Jinn had an ounce of light in his black soul. She is utter darkness.”

Arx said, “She said something really crazy about being your wife. What’s up with that?”

Nova went pail. His gaze shifted away from them, and he slowly turned back to looking at the screen.

EB, now a little worried about Nova, hopped around and looked up at him. “Buddy, you alright?”

“No. I’m not. It’s her.”

Agent Justin said, “She called herself Lady Echidna. Do you know her?”

Nova calmly said, “Lady Echidna, so that’s what she’s calling herself now. Fitting, I suppose.” He seemed to be talking to himself as if they weren’t there.

“Nova, you okay? You sound like you are in a daze.” Krystal said.

EB gasped, “OH, NO! SHE’S GOT TO HIM! WAKE UP, BUDDY, WAKE UP!” He hopped up and slapped Nova with his little paw.

Nova took it without even budging. The fact that he let EB act like an idiot and even strike him without any recourse was enough to rattle everyone in the room.

After a moment of silence from their fearless leader, Nova gazed down at EB. “You know who she is. You’ve met her at least once before.”

EB stumbled back and put a paw up to his face, “Oh, no! Not her! Not...”

“Yes.” Nova whispered and then turned back to the gathering, “What did she say? Is she behind all these attacks?”

Agent Justin replied, “She said if we send heroes, they will not win. But she will entertain you. She has invited you to meet with her. I have no idea what she wants to negotiate for...”

“I do,” Nova said.

EB folded his paws, “Well, that witch ain’t getting you. I mean, what kind of dumb, ignorant fool does she take you for?”

Nova smiled. “I’ll have to think about this.”

Quark said, “You wouldn’t even consider this...would you?”

“I have to consider all possibilities. I am the protector of this world, and if that requires me to parlay with that woman, then I will. But I will consider all other options first.”

Lady Echidna’s voice boomed throughout the room. “What options would those be?”

Everyone turned to see her smiling at them from every screen in the room. She sat upon her throne, fanned by two of her loyal minions, while she sipped a fruity concoction.

“Lady Echidna, is it?” Nova greeted her.

She laughed and swirled about her drink. “You should come just to enjoy these little beverages. A delicacy of this lovely land I’ve acquired.”

“You know I won’t be part of your schemes ever again. I’ll take you down as I have before.”

She chortled at him, “Oh, the confidence, the arrogance. I think it’s why I find you so irresistible. Of course, you were always good in bed as well.”

EB made a gagging sound while everyone else looked terribly uncomfortable.

Nova was unfazed by her words. “Enough of this. I don’t know or care how you returned to this world, but I will send you back as I have in the past.”

“I wouldn’t count on that. You see, there is one little detail you are unaware of. I have, in my hand, the heart of one beautiful little lady who tried to look into my past.”

“Chase.” Nova whispered.

EB hopped up and down, irate. “YOU BITCH! YOU GIVE HER BACK! YOU CAN’T HURT CHASE! I’LL SHOVE AN EXPLODING EGG SO FAR UP YOUR...”

“As excitable as always.” She casually stared at the fuming bunny.

Nova demanded, “What are you going to do to her?”

“Let’s see.” She pretended to ponder this. “I could take her life right now. However, if you come and meet with me, I will consider releasing what I stole from her.” Before he could respond, she leaned forward and said, “You have twenty-four hours to meet my demand. And don’t think about trying to send in your little heroes to stop me. My champion will meet them.” She raised her glass, “See you soon, my dear husband.” and the screens changed back to normal.

EB was still fuming as the others stood in a state of shock. Gar asked, “What will you do?”

“I have no choice. I have to go to her.”

Krystal Fae said, “Are you sure about this? Chase is my friend too, but you’re more valuable.”

“WASH YOUR MOUTH OUT!” EB yelled.

Nova put a hand out to stop EB from going on a rant. “I won’t sacrifice anyone. I’ve put my life on the line for a long time to protect this world, and sometimes that means protecting just one person. However, I’m also not a fool. We will make a plan.”

“Can we plan down in the mess? I need a few stiff drinks.” Quark said.

Justin said, “I could use a bite to eat.”

“Come on. Gar, transfer all data about Ka’an Dorado and the current situation to some tablets and bring them along. 10915, send a message to NightShadow, I need him here as quickly as he can make it.”

“Understood.” The robot went to work while the others left for the mess hall.

Continue the Story

Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 10

 

A BADGE shuttle lowered down to the center of the beautiful capital city of Ka’an Dorado. There was no traffic, no pedestrians, just a quiet city. A bright glow from the mid-day sun filled the humid air while a deafening silence broken now and then by the squawk of a tropical bird.

Strange Quark and Arx stepped out of the shuttle and looked around. Each grew worried by the lack of attention their arrival stirred. Nova insisted they arrive without cloaking the shuttles, so the people of the nation knew help had arrived and it would draw out their enemy that much faster.

Arx said, “For a nation that was just overthrown, there is a serious lack of battle damage. Everything looks so clean and nice.”

“I don’t like it.” Quark said, “Not the lack of damage. That’s fine, but we should have some kind of reception. I’m not even sensing anyone hiding in trees or behind buildings. No ambushes, nothing.”

Agent Justin stepped out next, with Krystal Fae and EB behind him. He had a small device in his hands. “The palace is that way.”

Krystal Fae walked up to Quark. “I’m glad to help, but it looks like I won’t be of service.”

“I doubt this’ll be easy. Let’s get to the palace and find out what the heck’s going on.”

EB bounced around. “This place is pretty, like, so colorful. I like it. Now, where’s a World Corps goon so I can smash an exploding egg in his face?” He materialized an egg in his paw.

“You’ll get your chance. Hold still, I’m going to zap us into the palace.” Quark looked around and then snapped his fingers. They all vanished and then reappeared in the same place.

EB looked around like he was about to fight, then paused. “Hey, we’re didn’t move. What gives?”

“I don’t know. Something blocked my transport.” Quark tried again and had the same results.

Krystal Fae held her head. “Okay, that’s enough. You’re gonna give me a massive headache.”

Justin leaned over and held back vomiting. “Yeah, please don’t do that again.”

“Looks like we’re on foot.” Arx marched onward.

Once they reached the palace, after a long walk, they found the outside just as dead as the city.

Justin said, “I don’t like this. No welcoming party.”

Krystal added, “It’s like they don’t even care to protect their new acquisition.”

Quark charged ahead, walking inside the palace. They went through several doors, down a long hall, and then opened the last door to the main throne room.

It was pitch black in the throne room. Krystal Fae reached up to conjure a ball of light, but an unknown source blew it out.

“I seriously don’t like this.” EB said, hiding behind Quark’s leg.

Music echoed around them, as though a symphony had now taken over the room. The dark, haunting melody of a waltz cried out. While it played, little candles appeared in the darkness. They moved toward the group, lightly bouncing. The more candles, the more light, and now the silhouettes of dark dressed individuals appeared. Women in elaborate gowns and black bird like masks. Men were in dark tuxedos with devil like masks.

A woman sung to the waltz, her voice dark and threateningly vicious. There was a joy in her words, like she was about to feast upon their very souls.

a song

a dance

a twirl

a chance

Let your mind be taken

let your soul reawaken

Be mine forever more

a song

a dance

a waltz

a trance

Let your heart now sink

Let your body shrink

as you die upon my floor

A song

a dance

this is your last chance

to be a glamorous child

a song

a dance

no words

just a glance

let the world fade away

night into day

your very last breath

will bring to you death....

There was a great blue explosion of energy, and it thrust everyone out of this nightmare. They had been dancing in the middle of the room with what they thought were other members of this party. Instead, they stood midst all these finely dressed people, each aiming one of their AMA weapons at them.

Strange Quark, who had broken through this insidious spell, was now half a giant blue duck, from his waist down. He had his hands out and was in a state of near-panic.

The dark lady sat upon the throne, a smile on her black lips. “Oh, how very clever. You, blue one, have the power to transcend dimensions. How wonderful.”

“That was quacking nuts.” Quark stated and then stood up, still half a duck. “Enough. I don’t know who or what you are, but that is over. And don’t think your weapons are threatening us. We’re immune to the power of those weapons.”

“How very rude of me.” She rose to her feet with all the grace of a queen. “My name is Lady Echidna. You should fear not the weapons, but me.” Without a glimmer of trepidation in her face, she strode toward them.

Krystal Fae stepped up. “Beware, she is magical.”

“Ah, what do we have here? Some little creature who touches magic.”

Krystal formed a ball of energy in her hand. “I do more than touch it.”

“Darling, you have no idea the true depth and breadth of magic.” Lady Echidna blew as though she were snuffing a matchstick, and the energy in Krystal’s hand simply evaporated.

Quark remained stern, even though he was still sporting the hindquarters of a waterfowl. “What’s going on here? Why are you controlling the World Corps soldiers? Why did you take over this nation? And do you have any connection to the Shadow Krampus?”

She laughed at him in a dismissive tone. Turning, she swept back to her throne and graced it again. “So many questions. But you aren’t ready for answers. What I know, what I am, what I have done, what I will do, all are brilliant questions. But you aren’t worthy to ask them and are certainly unworthy to receive an answer from the likes of me.”

EB hopped up with an enormous egg in his paws, “Why... why do I know you? You feel so familiar?”

“The Easter Bunny. How precious. Too bad I couldn’t bewitch you. It would be so much fun to have that kind of power among my followers.”

Justin prepped his gun. “She’s not going to give us answers. We shouldn’t waste our time.” Taking a stand before Quark, Justin said, “You’re under arrest for the unlawful...un….the…where am I?” he swayed and began to smile like an idiot.

“I feel funny.” EB held his head as he dropped his egg.

Lady Echidna opened up her arms. “Worship me!”

Everyone went groggy and fell to their knees.

“No...I won’t...” Krystal struggled the most, refraining from being taken.

Quark was overcome for a moment, even smiling at her as though she were the most beautiful thing in the universe. Then, he turned entirely into a duck and said, “What...you’re not getting away with this!” He flashed back into his normal self and sent out another wave of energy. All the others broke free from her spell, but he was focusing to maintain this. His blue energy contended against a strange force that acted like a great wind in the room.

Lady Echidna stood up and said, “My, my, you are strong. I can’t have that. Tell Nova to send his finest to strike me down. They won’t win. But I will entertain him and he knows it. Only Nova will I deal with...tell him...his wife is waiting for his return.”

With that, a blinding flash of black energy struck them. Everyone felt as though they were being flung across the city. In moments, each landed with a hard crash on a metal surface, crashing into tables and chairs. They were back on the BADGE spacestation.

Krystal sat up, looking around in a state of confusion. “Did she say she was Nova’s wife?”

Continue the Story

Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 9

 Nova walked into the conference room on the Station. Quark and EB were discussing the best tasting liquor filled chocolate. Dr. Henderson and Agent Justin looked over several computer tablets. Arx and Gar sat near each other without saying a word to the other.

“Good, everyone is back.” Nova said, and walked up to the front of the room.

EB hopped up and stood on the table. “Is Santa here?”

Dr. Henderson said, “Yes. He’s with Chase at this time.”

Nova took his seat at the front of the room. “Give me a brief update on Chase.”

“She’s stable. Her vital signs are all good. I simply cannot wake her up. However, my sensors indicate she’s being held by some kind of arcane energy.”

EB said, “Santa’s really good with that stuff. Better than me, just don’t tell him I said so. If anyone can break the curse or spell on Chase, it will be him. Though I still think a kiss might do the trick.”

“Enough of that. Sit.” Nova pointed at the seat next to Quark, which the bunny reluctantly plopped down in.

“Quark?” Nova looked over at the blue hero. “What did you find in New Amsterdam and Paris?”

He shook his head. “With the help of local leagues and the police, we checked every last detail. I looked into the local energy spectrum as well. I could only see a residual trace of strange energy. But it’s the same energy I’ve seen at every attack. So, I know it’s connected to this Shadow Krampus. Unfortunately, it doesn’t help much.”

“Damnit. We need something. I know this isn’t the last of that thing.”

Quark sat forward. “There is one thing we did find...or rather, never found. At no time did we see any of the former World Corps goons involved. I gathered every speck of footage from New Amsterdam, security cams, ATMs, traffic cams, even cell phones. We ran everything through tracers and not one face pegged the sensors. There doesn’t seem to be a connection.”

Nova said, “I think we found the World Corps goons. They have overthrown a small country in Central America, Ka’an Dorado.”

“Ka’an Dorado? That’s like a spot in the road.” Arx piped in.

Agent Justin said, “Ka’an Dorado is one of the world’s leading gold resources. It is a small country, but they are extremely wealthy. They have never challenged any of their neighbors, but they aren’t weak. Their military is bolstered by the most expensive mercenaries money can buy. The fact that these world corps soldiers could so quickly overthrow them is...odd.”

Nova said, “Investigator Barnaby spoke with the United Nations security office and found that Ben Talos is not talking, however he hasn’t had any visitors since they incarcerated him. But, as we have seen before, masterminds can do things behind bars that defy logic.”

“Are you assuming that Ben Talos is behind this?” Agent Justin asked.

“I don’t know, but it does make sense. He would want the funds that controlling Ka’an Dorado would bring him. He would also automatically have the loyalty of the former World Corps Goons.”

Strange Quark asked, “What do we do?”

Nova said, “Simple. Ka’an Dorado sent us a distress call. We’ll answer it. Strange Quark, take BADGE representation with you and go remove the World Corps goons from this situation.”

Arx asked, “Just a few BADGE people. Not like a bunch of Heroes or a few leagues? These goons were a problem to fight before, and they just overthrew a whole country.”

Nova laughed, “They’re still using AMA weapons. We have enhanced our heroes and even agents to resist those weapons. This should be an easy extraction.”

EB stuck his hand up and waved it around.

Nova let out a soft sigh. “What?”

“Do ya think that these world corps idiots are behind Shadow Krampus?”

“I doubt it. We haven’t seen the connection yet. I’m beginning to think these two incidents might be separate after all. So, the objective is simple. Quark, you and your hand-picked team will go and deal with the World Corps. If you need backup, you’ll have access to the BADGE comm system. We will continue to investigate the Shadow Krampus situation and move forward with that.”

EB added, “And have a big wake-up party for Chase when she comes around.”

“No. We won’t. Just...get to work.”

Quark said, “Arx, Agent Justin, EB, you guys are with me. “

Arx cracked his knuckles, “Good, I’ve been wanting to smack around some of these world corps goons.”

Nova said, “Son, BADGE isn’t about revenge, only justice.”

“Hey, sometimes they are the same thing.” Arx said as he followed Quark out of the room.

Nova walked into the infirmary, where Santa knelt next to his daughter’s bed. He had a hand on her
head and was focusing on his magic.

“Nova?” Santa looked up.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you.”

Santa stood up and held his head. “This is...powerful magic.”

“I knew it was powerful magic, but Vexillian magic is the strongest.”

Santa walked out of the room and got himself a cup of coffee at a little station in the waiting area. “You know that isn’t entirely true. There are other magics in this universe. Some of which are terribly powerful.”

Nova stepped into the room and quietly watched Santa for a moment while the old man sipped his black drink. There was a deep concern written on both their faces. Finally, Nova said, “It can’t be. The last of the darkest magics were destroyed a long time ago. I know, I did it personally.”

Santa sat down and wiped his hand across his sweating brow. “I’m worried, my old friend. Something changed recently, something that gave me reason for pause the moment it happened.”

Nova gently took his seat across from Santa. “I had hoped we solved that problem before it became a problem.”

“A force of pure darkness tore a hole in space. But you and I know that it wasn’t living in a void. It was from the darkest depths of the layers of space that anything can possibly live. The place where the most vile of evils has seethed for millions of years.”

“The Darkness was connected to Legion. Their actions formed it.”

“That may be true. But it wasn’t Legion that created the realm in which The Darkness thrived all this time. Why do you think it wanted to open a hole in space and spread darkness across this universe? It wants what that realm has wanted since the dawn of time....dominion.”

Nova stood and walked away. “We have been monitoring that tear in space since The Darkness first appeared. NightShadow has been in constant contact with us about it, to ensure that it was dormant. It will close, naturally, and be done with.”

Santa pointed a finger at Nova. “Since when do you underestimate evil? Since when does the amazing Director Nova not plan for the worst? It’s because you worry she has returned.”

“No.”

“Don’t lie to yourself! You’re scared to your very heart she has returned, and that’s why you’ve turned your remaining eye away from thinking it possible. You’ve let technology and other people’s opinions rule this situation. That hole was torn, and it leads to a place where you banished her.”

Nova walked toward the door, back to the main hallway. “If she had returned, I would know it.”

“For the sake of humanity, I hope you’re right. But blithely ignoring the possibility is dangerous.”

Nova paused just as the door opened from his push of the button. “Look, I’m not completely unaware of the possibility. I just...desperately want it to be anything else. I would rather it be Jinn right now, or even Krampus. But if she has returned, then I’ll need your help. The heroes...they don’t...they are strong, but they don’t know what true evil looks like. They haven’t faced the kind of horrible wickedness that lives in the heart of such a person.”

“I will be there for you. But her power is beyond mine. You know this.”

“I know. Just, for now, bring your daughter back. I need my first in command back at her station.” With that, he left the waiting room.

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THE BIG BRAWL: HOW IT STARTS: ROUND 1 HIGHLIGHTS

BY: Todd Goode id# 12205

They call me Papabiche. Welcome to the Big Brawl. This is how it all starts. Sometimes folks just can't get along. Folks have disagreements and sometimes a civil discussion falls on deaf ears. Things get heated and the name calling, and the your mama jokes start and that escalates into a push and then a shove back. Tempers will flair and someone pushes a guy into another guy and then everyone in the place starts to get mad and fight and sometimes folks just like a good fight. Well, that's all well and good but that ain't gonna fly here. Not in my bar. Imma pop the first guy that breaks a glass.

 
It's a good thing Nova put this arena together and got us super powered folks in one place to work things out. Nova broke this brawl up into three rounds so we could work out who is the best at brawling, and he put me, lil ole Papabiche, in charge of keeping track of the winners and losers. Let's all have some vodka while we look at some of the results for round 1.

In div 1 Chaos Theory and WMD take the win in round 1 over Super Freaks and Area51 New Order.
in div 2 Big Bang Theory and Angels Of Sorcery take the victories over The Disenchanted Brute Squad and 5th Precinct: Omniversal Traffic Cops with relative ease but there was that one guy they call Dr Silver Strange on the Disenchanted team. That guy ain't no pushover. He kicks like a horse.
I really like a good close battle and here are some of my favorites throughout round 1.

In division 4, Bad Moon Rising and The Seraphim Angels had a close one but the moon sets on the Angels 63-58.

The SOB Hunter/Killers of division 5 hunt down the Creatures of the Night and bag a win 89-62. That round was almost as much fun as snipe hunting with the new guy.

In division 6, 5th Precinct: Space Force gets boxed up and shelved for another day as The W.a.r.e.h.o.u.s.e takes a close victory 53-39.

Let's have another vodka while we take a look into division 7. The Freaks of Nature run wild in space and crater The Star Force: Junior League as the Freaks win 131-125. Great fight guys.

Division 10 had a couple of tight battles. Hellsgate gets slammed by The King's Gambit 79-73. Bow down to the Kings. SOB OVERLORD gets caught in the gravitational pull of 9PLANETS ORBITING and are torn apart 79-63.

Thats some great round one action there, folks. Let ole Papabiche refill everyone's drink and raise a glass and toast all the winners of round 1. Salute.

 
Let's raise another glass for those who fell. Now it's time for everyone to rest and prepare for round 2. When you are finished celebrating, kindly wash your glasses and put them back on the shelf and don't break any or you'll learn why they call me Papabiche. I'm just joking .... don't break any. Those were a gift from my Mama.

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Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 8

 “For the last time, a kiss will not wake her. This isn’t a fairy tale!” Nova bellowed.

EB pouted while he folded his cute little arms. “You’re talking to the freaking Easter Bunny and you say this isn’t a fairy tale. Chase is out cold and we can’t wake her. What’s the harm in trying?”

Nova stood outside the infirmary on the station with the angry bunny. He let his irritation subside and calmly said, “Think about it. If it doesn’t work and she wakes and is told you were kissing her while she was unconscious, imagine what she’ll do to you.”

EB gained a horrified look on his face. “Good point.”

Investigator Barnaby approached and gave a little head nod to Nova. “Director. I just arrived. The team is still at the prison, going over everything for the tenth time. I doubt we’ll find anything new, but I’ll not rest until we find something of value.”

“I commend your devotion. Now, tell me one more time what Chase said when she came around before she blacked out.”

“It’s like I reported earlier. She said it was just like Jinn and then went cold.”

“How did it happen?” Nova asked.

“I can’t say. All I know is she grabbed the banister, closed her eyes and went silent for a moment. Then she suddenly reared back, held her head and started screaming in pain. She was inconsolable. I yelled for the doctor and when we calmed her down, she said something about Jinn and then was gone.”

EB hopped up and down so far he was eye level with this man. “HOW DARE YOU PUT CHASE IN DANGER! I OUGHT TO POKE YOU RIGHT IN THE...” Nova snatched him mid-hop and dangled him by his ears.

“Cool it. Chase was just using her powers like normal. There was no way we could have predicted this would happen.” He dropped EB and then asked, “Do you think that this could be connected to Jinn?”

EB shook his head. “I doubt it. Jinn’s dead. Like, smoked beyond return. It takes a lot to kill a Vexillian, and he went down hard. You were there, you saw it.”

Nova asked, “Could this be some residual effect of Jinn’s magic?”

EB frowned. “Maybe something left behind, but still doubtful. When we die, all our left-over spells and stuff usually vanish. I mean, during the war with Legion on our world, loads of my people went down and their work was, POOF, gone. A real problem, since we would conjure weapons and shelters and stuff like that. One dude bites the dust and entire fortresses vanish from existence. There was this one lady who created a...”

“I get the picture.” Nova interrupted EB.

Barnaby interjected. “It also wasn’t the modus operandi for Jinn. I read all the reports and witnessed his work personally in the Ireland incident. He would dupe others to help him, but he never relied on minions. There is no reason for him to release the world corps people.”

“Do you think the person behind this prison break has done so to use these soldiers in their own army?” Nova asked.

“Logically, yes. If the culprit behind the break-out wanted to simply cause havoc, there are much more dangerous and powerful villains in other BADGE prisons. Releasing the inmates in Purgatory Pen alone would cause global chaos. Also, if the culprit were just playing around, there was no reason to go to the lengths to release these prisoners rather than any other prison. This was too meticulous for someone simply showing off. Lastly, we know that the World Corps soldiers were devoted followers and good at being henchmen. Thus, logic dictates that the person behind this wanted the henchmen for their own little schemes.”

EB swooned, “Wow, that was all Sherlock Holmesy. And with that Brit accent of yours, it was even cooler. You should write a book or something.”

“Yes, of course.” Barnaby was a little bemused by the excited bunny.

Nova said, “Your logic does make sense. Whoever broke them out is using them. Jinn never used minions. But then why did she say that?”

EB said, “What about the World Corps? Ben Talos is still alive. Maybe he’s up to something evil. He was really nasty, like...a total jerk.”

“And clever.” Nova said. “Barnaby, head to Purgatory Pen and make sure Ben Talos is completely clear from being part of this.”

“I will do my best.” Barnaby gave off another brief nod and then walked off.

EB said, “I had a good idea then, right? Ben is probably behind this. I mean, who else would want the World Corps goons?”

Nova turned and walked away from the infirmary wing. “I’m not sure Ben is part of this. Whoever is doing this had the power to recreate Krampus and then send him all over the planet. They bypassed one of the most advanced security systems BADGE has, and were able to mess with Chase so badly, she is still unconscious. Drochah, yes, but Ben was just another pawn in Drochah’s plans. I...”

“Director Nova to Operations. Incoming transmission.” A robotic voice announced.

Nova hurried with EB through the station back to the Operations center. He found Gar standing at the command, waiting for him.

“Director, we have a transmission from the distress system.” Gar pointed to the blinking window on the screen.

“Yes, I just got the alert. Put it through.”

The screen opened up, and a man in a military uniform was speaking. “We are under attack by Ka’an Dorado forces. They are stronger than expected. Please, BADGE, send help.” It repeated the message again, which was cut short when Nova signaled for the mute.

EB scoffed, “Don’t these little nations know that BADGE isn’t here to settle land disputes?”

Nova pondered this for a moment. “Odd, that’s two distress calls from the same area of the world. Maybe this threat isn’t just petty land disputes between small countries. Robot 10915, do we have any images from Ka’an Dorado within the last two days?”

The robot scanned through millions of bits of data and then said, “Affirmative. We have access to fifty-seven security cameras on the streets of Ka’an Dorado, including bank Automated Teller Machines, Traffic Cameras, Home Security Cameras..”

“Stop. I want images inside their capital.”

EB asked, “Inside? What are you looking for?”

“Just seeing who is behind the little coup that overthrew that government yesterday. If I see a petty warlord, I’ll alert the United Nations. But if I see something unusual, it might be worth investigating.”

10915 reported, “Negative. All recording devices within the capital building of Ka’an Dorado were disabled forty-eight hours ago.”

“Whoever did this coup had it planned.”

10915 said, “Additional information related to request is available. Images of Ka’an Dorado capital building during requested time-frame are available.”

“Good. Put them all on screen. I don’t care how blurry they are.”

Two dozen images appeared, all stills taken from cameras all over the city. Most were extremely blurry, while a few were partially clear.

“Geeze, haven’t these people heard of High Definition?” EB muttered. “OOOh, why don’t you enhance them like they do on those cool Crime Scene shows?”

Nova rolled his one good eye. “This is reality, not science fiction. We can’t take out-of-focus images and make perfect....wait...10915, expand image twelve.”

A blurry image of the street before the capitol building took up most of the screen. Several men were walking into the building, each wearing a tuxedo. They carried something in their hands.

“10915 can we identify that weapon?”

“Affirmative. Image matches known specifications of the Automatic Morphon Atomizer, known as the AMA weapon.”

EB said, “I think we found our missing prisoners...and they’re all dressed up.”

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Heroes Rising Fiction: Seething Shadows Part 7

 A man stepped up to a podium at the head of the United Nations conference. Cameras flickered before him as he addressed both the gathered representatives and the viewers across the world. Behind him, a screen came alive with footage from the Shadow Krampus attack in New Amsterdam.

“Ladies and Gentlemen of the world, we witnessed a terrible battle over one of the most populated cities on the planet. As in the past, heroes stepped up to contend against this villain and protect our lives. However, the United Nations would like to acknowledge and commend BADGE for their efforts. Three of their heroes were involved in this battle. One, a hero who has had a dubious history, went toe to toe with this monster and bravely fought. We thank the hero Midgardsormr for his act of courage.” There was lengthy applause as people watched clips from the fight shot from afar by news.

“Next, another hero, who we are told is called Macaia’s Daughter, no word on her name, just her relationship apparently. She came precariously close to the combat and used her own powers to protect private and public property. Saving not only billions of dollars in damages but also the homes and businesses of innocent victims. People can go back to work and home today without having to dig their lives from the rubble.” A single shot of Macaia’s Daughter protecting a building with her mental powers flashed on the screen and drew even more applause.

“Finally, another hero known as The Wizard came to the aid of civilians trying to escape the city. Due to the panic, a truck overturned and two buses were nearly sent over the side of the Bay Bridge. Dozens of lives were at stake and he saved them all.” The final footage was of The Wizard standing on top of a bus he had teleported to a safe location. During the applause, the head of the United Nations said, “This battle cost zero lives and minimal property damage. The villain was, presumably, destroyed, and BADGE has been vindicated. It is at this time the United Nations completely absolves BADGE of any scrutiny from former events and extends our hand to them to once again work together for a better future.”

Nova signaled for the video to go to mute while the roar of applause was deafening.

“Why didn’t you go? I know they invited you to this.” Gar asked.

Nova said, “I have always enjoyed working behind the scenes and in the shadows. I don’t need public accolade. I sent Arx and Agent Justin to accept this honor, as they also have a meeting with the United Nations about the new Atlas initiative.”

Gar said, “It’s a good thing the world still doesn’t know that Arx is alive, and he works for us now. They don’t realize the man they are showing representing BADGE is the same villain they wanted dead.”

“I’m just glad that BADGE had regained a positive status around the world.” Nova said.

Gar frowned at Nova, “Why do you still look worried?”

“This isn’t over.”

“That Shadow Krampus is dead.”

“He isn’t dead, he’s gone. First, we’ve watched him vanish on every occasion, so I don’t know if this was for good or just for now. Second, where did it come from? Something like that doesn’t just appear. The real Krampus is dead, I’m certain of that. Who or what would take a form of him and then terrorize heroes all over the world?”

“What do we do now?” Gar asked.

“The same. Heroes aren’t to be out alone and we must keep our eyes open for another attack. I just hope Chase finds something out at the prison. There has to be a connection there and I want to know what it is.”

Chase walked around the outside of the prison, looking over the barbed wire fences and the security gates. BADGE trucks and stations were all over the place. There was no civilization for miles in all directions, and this was a no-fly zone. The deafening silence was cut only by the whisper of winds through the dried, tall grasses.

“You see anything?” An older man in a suit walked up. He had a BADGE insignia stitched onto his breast pocket.

Chase said, “Investigator Barnaby, if someone got through the gates and walls around this place, they did so without disturbing anything. I don’t even see any grasses or dirt that is out of place. We’ve tested every door and gate using my power. I can’t see anything. No one has opened them outside of the normal weekly deliveries.”

They walked into a larger tent with two medical beds. Dr. Henderson inspected one of the two guards found at the entrance.

“Doctor, when did you arrive?” Chase asked.

The doctor looked up, a weird device over her eyes that gave her the appearance of a surprised bug. “Oh, Agent Chase. Glad to see you. Just arrived moments ago. They needed a second opinion on this matter. Oh, who is this?” She noticed the handsome gentleman behind Chase.

Chase stepped aside. “This is Agent Barnaby. He works with BADGE.”

Barnaby took her hand with a warm smile. “I work with the London Office, mostly.”

“Barnaby, that’s right. You’re one of the foremost detectives in the world. Nova has spoken highly of you before.”

“He called me in on this case. A jailbreak with absolutely no evidence of a jailbreak. Now, there’s a mystery for you.”

“What have you figured out so far?” Dr. Henderson asked.

The older man shook his head. “Nothing. We specially set aside this place to house only the members of the former World Corps. They were highly trained and considerably dangerous. So, BADGE put them in a prison designed to keep them. When the inspectors got here, there wasn’t anyone left alive who remembers anything, except these two.”

Dr. Henderson said, “I doubt they’ll be of much help. Their minds are mashed potatoes. I’ve never seen such a case of a mental mess. They don’t even know how to feed themselves any longer. I have no idea when...or if, we’ll ever get anything out of them.”

“Do what you can.” Chase said.

Barnaby walked with Chase out of the tent and toward the building. “Okay, so if I recall correctly, your particular power is around seeing the past through touching objects.”

“Yes.”

“Then we need an object for you to touch.”

Chase said, “I have tried everything I can think of. The gate handles, the doors, even the weapons on the guards themselves. I’m limited in what I see. It has to be near the object.”

“Then, we need something that was touched by the person who exacted this break-out.” Barnaby said as he opened the gate to the building.

“What if it was an inside job? What if it was just the prisoners breaking themselves out?”

“If that were the case, then this would be a much messier. Also, our two friends inside would not be so keenly baffled.” Barnaby opened the door to the building itself and allowed her to enter. “So, logically, this was someone else who arrived and executed this escape with precision.”

“Okay, but if they were so precise, then they certainly wouldn’t be foolish enough to leave something behind.” Chase said.

Barnaby walked forward, giving careful consideration to his steps. He stopped just before the banister. “Now, If I were someone who wanted to get everyone’s attention, as I assume our criminal would. And, I would need to do so quickly. I would stand here and call out like this. HELLO!” He said this and the open center of the box-like building echoed.

Chase was impressed. “So, if you’re correct?”

He put his hands on the banister. “I would at least hold this for a moment, to keep better balance while yelling.”

“Brilliant.” Chase said. “Move, let me.” She took his place and put her hands on the banister. Closing her eyes, she focused her powers. She saw herself step up, then walking in. She saw the lights go out for a long time. Then activity bustled around this place as the prisoners quickly exited their cells, or from her reversed perspective, returned to their cells. Then she saw a brief glimpse of a woman in black, then two bright red eyes appeared and a shadow surrounded her. A terrible voice yelled in her head.

“GET OUT OF MY PAST!”

The sound of this was so powerful that it filled Chase’s mind and she couldn’t hold the banister any longer. Falling to the ground, she held her head and cried out in pain. Barnaby rushed to her, but he couldn’t break this.

Suddenly, an icy feeling of something entered her neck, and she relaxed. Dr. Henderson knelt next to her, having just administered a hypo-spray. “Chase...Chase! Are you okay?”

Chase looked up and whispered, “It was just like Jinn.” and then she blacked out.

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