The Day the World Changed
Supporting Cast
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Liesl Schildknecht
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Dr Olivia Preston
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Dr Salena Storm
Sessions Archive
The End of All Things...
In the middle part of the year 1956, a group of seemingly unrelated individuals came together at the Offices of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. For reasons possibly still not fully understood, this group was employed by the organisation to undertake investigations of strange phenomena. It was a new world with a bright future - though one that had the potential for letting scientific discoveries move at a speed that process and governance could keep pace with. What resulted was Australia becoming a dumping ground for atomic testing. Radiation started having an impact on the environment, awakening beasts and creatures long thought extinct.
Something far more sinister was happening however. Scientists lacking moral character furthered experimentation far past what the world was ready for. This cumulated in the creation of an army of undead that made its first assault upon humaity at the opening of the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games. The impact of this attack lead to nuclear war and global devastation.
Our group, now skilled as more than just explorers on behalf of CSIRO, were tasked to try and discover the source of this zombie army. In doing so, they became aware of multiple parallel times and worlds - each connected so closely that destruction of one, would likely lead to destruction of all. Our group became more than just CSIRO operatives - they became the last hope for universal humanity...
Our heroes had already had a brief encounter of these other worlds by both discovering a near-future walled city of Sydney under siege from zombies and another world straight out of a H.G. Wells novel - the Island of Dr Moreau.
Retreating from Melbourne invasion, our Team was tasked with travelling back to discover - and stop - the origins of the zombie creation. They had learned that Klaus' daughter Liesl was somehow connected and was not the innocent child they had thought. It seemed that she and her mother had evil intent for the future. Not all was evil though and Frank discovered he had a niece, Maija - the daughter of his brother. Maija had been afflicted however with an illness that had placed her forever in a wheelchair. Maija though, had embraced this challenged rather than succumb to it, and went by the nickname "Wheels".
Placed in the CSIRO Time Tunnel, our Team was sent back nearly 100 years - though they not only travelled through time but somehow became alternative persons, but not aware of their true selves. Again, it seemed that a random group of individuals had been brought together as a team and were to work for an organisation known only as "The Agency". Their mission was to investigate the activities of Dr Darius Hellstromme, a scientist seemingly working outside of any governance. Strangely, the man in charge of The Agency was known as "Mr Smith" - the same same used by the man in charge at the CSIRO. Also, there was a woman of true beauty but slightly unusual golden skin - Caitlin McSwain present in this time and place.
The investigation of Dr Hellstromme led our Heroes to his offices in New Orleans, known as the City O'Gloom due to the cloud of smoke that encapsulated the city. There, they discovered evidence of Hellstromme's treachery toward humanity through the creation of zombies and the plans to send aid into the future. Our heroes were captured by Hellstromme and sent to their doom in the pits beneath his office and to become the prey of the giant antlion that dwelt within.
Not to be thwarted, our group defeated the creature and managed to enter the deep basement beneath Hellstroome's office, discovering the truth of the zombie creation but had to flee beneath the tunnels where they discovered fearsome beasts out of the earth's past. Almost defeated and lost for all time, our heroes found a gate that would allow them to travel into the future - not knowing that this actually meant returning to their home. The gate created for their rescue however came at the cost of a group of people sent to rescue our heroes. The rescuers were found dead, just as the portal was closing. Among the bodies was that of a young woman and her wheelchair...
Our heroes returned to the time and place they had left - the place anyway, for it soon became apparent that the timezone they were now in was not the one they left. Indeed, the time was now some ninety years into the future from their 1956 starting point. Upon leaving the CSIRO Scientific Centre in Alice Springs, they discovered a world near totally ended.
The years that they had missed had resulted in multiple nuclear wars, famine and pestilence and a landscape nearly devoid of life. An "every man for themselves" attitude existed among the survivors and the future of the human race seemed bleak.
An attempt had been made to seek a future in the stars and - it seemed - a new world had been discovered and colonised on a distant planet. Later, it was discovered that this attempt had failed and everyone that they knew was now gone.
Or so our Heroes thought. Through some miracle, they discovered that both Wheels and the mysterious McSwain survived the holocaust. The downside was that Liesl also seemed to have survived. Though 90 or more years had passed, she was still a little girl - though one of infinite evil.
It was in this future that our Heroes true path began to become clear. It was they - and only they - who offered some hope for humanity across all universes. To this end, they discovered the alter-egos they had become during their time in the past and were gifted with powers far beyond those of normal humans. They had become the Ka-Tet -
Rosemary - the One who Restores Science and Learning
Sam - The One who Walks in Two Worlds
Frank - The One who Speaks to God and Machines
Alice - The One who Heals More Than Wounds
Klaus - The Father of Evil
Klaus, however, had been lost to them by his kidnapping. This kidnapping introduced them to the true source of the evil besetting the infinite universes. The evil and their ultimate goal. Randyll Flagg wished control of the Dark Tower. The Dark Tower resides in all places and at all times. All that is the infinite universes is connected to the Dark Tower. Control of the Tower meant control of everything. In a final note from McSwain, our Heroes discovered more of Flagg's plan...
If you are reading this then you returned from the past and the Ka-Tet is formed. The others are all gone. The Unity has been destroyed and Banshee is a myth.
Perhaps Maija, Wheels, still lives though she has a deadly enemy who is filled with a hatred for her. She would not let me fight him. I'm sure this stubbornness is something she got from her aunt.
The world is at a crossroad. More, the entire Universe itself is holding her breath waiting. She has been waiting for the Ka-Tet for eons. Now her wait is over.
The Dark Tower is at risk of falling. The enemies you have encountered in the past - even Liesl - are mere pawns in a struggle that began almost before time.
The true enemy - Randyll Flagg awaits you on Mid-World. She seeks dominion or total destruction of the Dark Tower. She cannot succeed in controlling the Tower or all that was, is and will be - it will be at her command. There will be no future.
If you cannot stop her, you must destroy the Tower and hope it can rise like the Phoenix.
I will help as I can as I travel with you. I am no longer what I was but I am uncertain what I will become.
I expect that Klaus is not with you. If he is then his part is still uncertain and grave danger comes with him. His choice may still be open.
The way to mid-world lies in the knowledge from the library here. Rosemary, you must take as much knowledge as you can to the Grand Library. Only then can knowledge be possibly saved. The library will also give you more knowledge of your task.
Frank, I think you have probably suffered great loss by now but I am sure that you know you could have never stopped her. I also suspect Alice has helped.
Alice, Mid-world needs you most. If you have learned what I believe you have, you will understand what you must do.
Sam. You stand in two worlds. Embrace it and use it as your strength. Mid-World will fight you but you must prevail, though it may cost you dearly.
My time in this world is at an end, though my time with you may not be.
You have become the Champions, the Ka-Tet. To you sits the fate of Everything. This is why you were born.
If I can, I will teach you more - if that becomes my task. For now though - I am no longer who you believed, though I always counted you as Friends.
Caitlin
Travelling to Mid-World, the Ka-Tet encountered Liesl and her army, though by Rosemary using her newly-gained knowledge, they defeated her. It was at this time that they became reunited with Klaus and the Ka-Tet, for once, was complete. Klaus was not as they remembered. He had been transformed into a horror. An automaton created by the science of Dr Hellstromme. Only Klause's mind existed from his original self. Our heroes discovered that Klause's nature had turned too far to evil and it was necessary to end his life - what remained of it. This, however, weakened the Ka-Tet. Through Good or Ill, the Ka-Tet had been five but was now four...
Through trial and combat, our Heroes now find themselves at the summit of the Dark Tower. They have reached their Ultimate Destination and encountered the Ultimate Evil that is Randyll Flagg. It is now that they must defeat Flagg or destroy the Tower and all humanity - hoping that the Dark Tower can rise from its own ashes like the mythical Phoenex itself...
* * * * *
So...
The first recorded session of The Day the World Changed was on October 7 2021, though that in that session we encountered the strange creature beneath Lake George - quite a distance in time itself from the Training Session in Wilcannia. Records show that we may have commenced this campaign back in April of that year.
More than three and a half years have passed since you were recruited into the game of GURPS and the world of radiation... the World of Atomic Horror...
I realise there have been times (probably many) where the campaign has made little or no sense and it all came down to me leading you by the nose. That thought has, to an extent, been completely true as I was very much winging it each week as we progressed. I think, however, I always had something like this as the ultimate end goal for the campaign.
The final ultimate struggle between Good and Evil. A storyline that has played out for as long as stories have been told and I hope that this story - though totally confusing at times - has been enjoyable. For myself, I always wanted to become more organised, though I also decided that simply knowing what the finale would be was enough. If I could do it again, I'm sure I would have all the good intentions - but then completely make it up as we went, so much so that I was often only five minutes ahead of the group...
As we enter this finale and we say goodbye to the World of Atomic Horror - there will be no Dallas Season Nine ending of Bobby Ewing returning - I do want to thank you guys for your infinite patience (which I know I have tested at times) but also your willingness to embrace the chaos and run with whatever I threw at you. It made playing the game infinitely enjoyable. I hope it was fun for all.
Tonight ends it all.
The new year brings a brand new challenge and adventure...
The Final Stage...
Entering he Tower seemed to be a very surreal experience for our heroes. The entry hall alone was easily larger that the outside base of the Tower had been. Within the entry hall there was a grand staircase that lead from either side of the hall up to a landing concealed in darkness.
As our Adventurers traversed the staircase, they discovered the landing filled with strange undead-like creatures that attempted to prevent their progress but did not actually attempt to harm.
Forcing teir way past these strange creatures, our heroes found themselves in what appeared to be an endless corridor that seemed to repeat the same three doors on either side. Investigating the doors lead our group to two scenarios.
The first seemed to be a return to our heroes to their original meeting with Mr Smith and the scientists of CSIRO. The Mr Smith they encountered seemed to be quite different in personality to the one of the adventurers memory. He offered them the ability to return to where they had started if they gave up on their quest.
During that conversation, they were joined by Dr Preston - Wheels' aunt, though this brought instant attack by Wheels in her form of their Guardian / Guide hound. The hound literally tore hthis version of Dr Preston apart.
All the while, a strange clock would chime hours and time was becoming a limited resource.
Leaving behind the strange return to the 1950s that the group had some memory of, another room provided a similar opportunity but this was an offer to return their lives to what they were back in the 1870s. Again, it seemed that this might be a way for Liesl and her Mistress to waste the precious resource of time.
Again declining, the group found an exit to the endless corridor and indeed an exit to what they believed to be the Tower.
Upon leaving, the group found themselves back in the wastelands, only this time the scenery was dominated by a structure that could only be the true Dark Tower...
The Dark Tower Looms...
Breaking out of the time loop, our heroes found that their seemingly endless journey to the City O"Gloom had progressed much further than they believed and that the destination was only half a day's travel. Another discovery while escaping the the time loop was the presence of both Dr Caitlin McSwain and Wheels - albeit in very different forms - back to join our heroes for the final leg
It was indeed the same city they had visit as their alter egos nearly two centuries in the past, though the city was completely deserted. Deserted until they reached the oblesik that ctood in the spot that Hellstromme's tower had sat on their previous visit. An unfriendly welcome awaited with both zombie-soldiers and huge automaton guarding the tower from entry. As they battled the massive beast, Sam's ingenuity and the support of the others destroyed the foes.
Now, finally, the Dark Tower loomed before them...
Escape to Reality
Entering Mid-World was more a return than a new trip as the landscape appeared identical to that of the mid-west of the United States experienced as their alternate personalties. In the distance the shrouded City O'Gloom could be identified. Taking camp for the night our heroes were attacked by large huskers - creatures they had encountered in only smaller sizes previously. During that first night, they also saw a train roll past on the single track line, heading towards New Orleans. As time progressed, it became increasingly noticeable the strange antics of the more normal nighttime creatures. Coyotes would hunt rabbits but never catch them - not because the rabbits escaped but more because the action of the hunter and hunted seem to stop and reset, creating an endless loop. Outside of this time loop was a large black hound shadow-shape. As it was viewed, light seem to bend around it creating the image of a shadow. This "blankness" extended when Sam attempted to communicate with the hound - almost as if the creature were there but not. Camping a second and third night, the group discovered the repetitive nature of the activities as once again coyote hunted rabbit and a train sped through at the same time each night. Although it was only single track, there was nothing indicating a train ever returned from the City O"Gloom. In attempting to trap or communicate with the shadow hound, which constantly evaded the. It seeme group noticed that the coyotes and rabbits would ignore our heroes presence though no attempt was made to impede the critters. As the fourth evening approached, it was becoming apparent that despite walking each day toward New Orleans, the distance to travel lessened but not by the amount expected. Time seemed to be transitioning at different speeds for different groups but how to break the time loop and continue to the Dark Tower had so far eluded the heroes...
The Final Journey Continues
Following the clues left by Caitlin, our heroes searched out the library at the CSIRO Office, where Rosemary began absorbing all the books she could to replish in the mysterious Grand Library to be found somewhere on Mid-World.
The entrance to the strange land and the Dark Tower remained a mystery however, until further investigation of the complex unearthed a strange door - one that opened onto solid rock. Rock so strong that even shavings or dust could not be taken. Rosemary's study led her to the belief that the door was some sort of portal and could only be opened through some major electrical charge.
Our heroes worked together to fashion a lightning rod and cabling linking the outside volcanic storm to the portal. Frank managed to quieten his fear of the radioactive world outside the CSIRO Offices enough to go to the rooftop and draw electricity from the lightning storm to the portal. Success granted access to the world beyond - a world not like their own world. A world that existed beyond the mortal plane and was suited more to the spirit world.
Finding a way forward, our group entered the strange lands of Mid-World...
The Final Journey Begins
It has been a long road for our heroes but knowledge that has been hidden for long is starting to become apparent. The Ka-Tet - the Champions of All That Was, Is and Will Be - has formed and moves toward their final goal.
After travelling from Tinbinbilla via one of the secret tunnels, our heroes found themseleves back where it all started, the Offices of CSIRO and more specifically Mr Smith's Office. Ninety years has past and upon their arrival at the office, they discovered a note from the past. The note though came from Dr Caitlin McSwain and not Mr Smith. It read:
If you are reading this then you returned from the past and the Ka-Tet is formed. The others are all gone. The Unity has been destroyed and Banshee is a myth.
Perhaps Maija, Wheels, still lives though she has a deadly enemy who is filled with a hatred for her. She would not let me fight him. I'm sure this stubbornness is something she got from her aunt.
The world is at a crossroad. More, the entire Universe itself is holding her breath waiting. She has been waiting for the Ka-Tet for eons. Now her wait is over.
The Dark Tower is at risk of falling. The enemies you have encountered in the past - even Liesl - are mere pawns in a struggle that began almost before time.
The true enemy - Randyll Flagg awaits you on Mid-World. She seeks dominion or total destruction of the Dark Tower. She cannot succeed in controlling the Tower or all that was, is and will be - it will be at her command. There will be no future.
If you cannot stop her, you must destroy the Tower and hope it can rise like the Phoenix.
I will help as I can as I travel with you. I am no longer what I was but I am uncertain what I will become.
I expect that Klaus is not with you. If he is then his part is still uncertain and grave danger comes with him. His choice may still be open.
The way to mid-world lies in the knowledge from the library here. Rosemary, you must take as much knowledge as you can to the Grand Library. Only then can knowledge be possibly saved. The library will also give you more knowledge of your task.
Frank, I think you have probably suffered great loss by now but I am sure that you know you could have never stopped her. I also suspect Alice has helped.
Alice, Mid-world needs you most. If you have learned what I believe you have, you will understand what you must do.
Sam. You stand in two worlds. Embrace it and use it as your strength. Mid-World will fight you but you must prevail, though it may cost you dearly.
My time in this world is at an end, though my time with you may not be.
You have become the Champions, the Ka-Tet. To you sits the fate of Everything. This is why you were born.
If I can, I will teach you more - if that becomes my task. For now though - I am no longer who you believed, though I always counted you as Friends.
Caitlin
Now it is time to enter the final journey...
The Beginning of the End (Part 8) - Death's Arrival
Faced with a possible standoff and violence likely, the group were surprised by the appearance Stria - the woman who had helped our heroes returned from the refinery. She called upon the group to make their intentions clear or leave town. Rosemary, still inclined to enter the Library, inched the situation closer to a shoot out.
Stria spoke of how the group needed to make a decision. If they entered the Library, they would be putting a prophecy in motion - one that others before had claimed but falsely. Those claims had nearly cost Mazy (who turned out to be Stria's sister) her life by the hand of Shark, who's intent was to keep control of his town through ignorance.
Convincing Stria that they would see any consequnce through seemed to relax her. Suddenly and almost two fast to see, Stria gunned down the two guards.
Entering the Library, our heroes encountered a very different scenario. The prophecy to which Stria had eluded seemed to be coming into play as each of our heroes was identified by a strange and mystic name:
- Rosemary - the One who Restores Science and Learning
- Sam - The One who Walks in Two Worlds
- Frank - The One who Speaks to God and Machines
- Alice - The One who Heals More Than Wounds
- Klaus - The Father of Evil
Not only did our heroes receive these names but strange powers also. Rosemary the ability to absorb books, Frank the ability to turn zombies to dust - the result also leaving him in cross-shaped tattoos. Also, each of our group found completeness in being joined with those who's footsteps that walked in on their earlier journey.
Having collected what they needed, our heroes set off to rescue Klaus and face Grom. Once they had reached the meeting place, Grom called for Pugna, one of the few respected traditions - involving single combat between Wheels and Grom. Combat that would only end with the death of one of them...
The Beginning of the End (Part 7) - Confrontation is imminent
Rosemary, unaware of Klaus' disappearance had set out early to visit the gentleman colloquially known as The Librarian. While a few gaps in her understanding of the events of the world during our heroes' "absence", it was clear that the collection of books held could be of value in restoring civilisation. It seemed that this view was not supported by Shark and that the Librarian's presence was only tolerated within Shark Town as long as he did not create waves. It was unclear whether Mazzy, Shark's lieutenant, supported this view or not. Hours passed as Rosemary spend time with the Librarian and there it was that Sam and the others brought the news of Klaus' disappearance and the note from Grom. That evening, plans were discussed and argued surrounding Klaus' rescue. Importantly though, Rosemary also felt that further information should be researched within the books that she had begun to review that day. Upon arrival at the Librarians the next day, they found it guarded by two of Shark's men who refused entry to Rosemary to the point of physically restraining her ability to approach the house. Tensions escalated and weapons were drawn as a peaceful settlement to proceedings slipped away Suddenly a shot rang out, though its source was unknown...
The Beginning of the End (Part 5)
It has been a couple of weeks since our heroes departed the Science Division at Ayers Rock. Forced into a couple of detours from the planned return to Canberra, they find themselves in a strange shanty-like town going by the name Shark's Compound, though the reasons behind the name have not been discovered. The trip to Shark's Compound resulting from a discovery that the state of Victoria had collapsed into the Indian Ocean, supposedly as a result of the nuclear wars some twenty or more years previous. Our group was met by Mazzy, the lieutenant to the mysterious "Shark", who also has a history with Wheels and believed her dead at the hands of Grom. Needing funds and to reconsider their travel plans, our heroes took up the offer of work by escorting a tanker doing a run from Shark's Compound to the Refinery and back. On the trip, they were attacked by members of Grom group, though Grom himself was absent. Successful in their trip, the our heroes return to Shark's Compound to undertake some repairs in preparation to continue their journey. While the preparations underway, Rosemary had heard of a man living up the hill who had a collection of books. The Librarian he was known as. Frank supervised the repairs and modifications to their vehicles and Sam had strange visions of a dark tower surrounded by death. In the morning, it was discovered that Klaus was missing. A note was found indicated our heroes must bring Wheels to "the place they should have travelled to"...
The Beginning of the End (Part 1)
Having been initially overlooked, Sam managed to follow his companions and release them from their captivity - brought upon by their attempt to work with rather than against the border patrols. In the ensuing fire fight, our heroes managed to escape what seemed to be a certain kangaroo trial and likely execution fate. Their escape was short lived as they were pursued - not by border guards - but some of the local bandits hunting for fuel supplies and weaponry. When one of the bandits showed to be a massive giant human-like creature, it seemed that flight was a better option than fight. Leaving behind the New Aboriginal Territory, our heroes eventually found their way to Woomera. Once a small town essntially supporting the space tracking station, Woomera was now a shanty town, fenced away from the world by a collection with anything that could be found to create a walled town. Leaving their vehicles, our heroes sought to greet with the members of the Woomera community, only to discover an aged woman - a girl child of some of the CSIRO support staff from their own era. Marissa recognised the travellers for who they were, understanding that they had come from the past. A whispered message sent inside, "It truly is them. Tell the Warrior" brought great interest from all of the Woomera citizens. After a short time, the gathered crowd parted, revealing the mysterious and seemingly rebel leader known as The Road Warrior...
The Return (Part 3)
Our heroes departed the CSIRO complex underneath Ayers Rock only to discover a very different world from the one they new back in 1956. Even the borders had changed in that a new territory, "New Aboriginal Territory" now existed as part - or replacing - Northern Territory. Discovering a check point somewhere within the boundaries of New Aboriginal Territory, our heroes found trouble with the locals and had to shoot their way out of an escalating situation. Followed by the "border" guards, another fire-fight unsued resulting in the death and injury of some of the patrol. Seeking to aid the wounded, our heroes ultimately submitted themselves to arrest to be taken before the Governor of New Aboriginal Territory Among the crimes they have been accused of committing was one of being part of the outlaw element lead by someone known only as The Road Warrior...
The Return (Part 2)
As our heroes investigate through the CSIRO Science Division Head Office, they discover that the complex is not totally empty. A few of the zombies at least still remain in residence even as - it appears - all living beings have left.
A discovered sign indicating a departure to Banshee lead to a destroyed area of the complex that once housed a "tunnel" that could take people to the planet Banshee - supposedly the new home for at least some of the human race.
Finally discovering Mr Smith's Office - after many twists and turns due to construction collapses - our heroes inadvertently set off a trap to protect Mr Smith's secrets - totally destroying his desk and notes. Through a few fragments, a few discoveries were able to be made:
Dr Vanessa Hellstromme - grandaughter of Dr Hellstromme whome they had encountered in their alternate selves - had workedwith CSIRO to develop the tunnel to Banshee
A spacecraft - The Unity - had been built to house workers in space while the tunnel was being built
The CSIRO Headquarters had been placed in a temporal stasis, essentially pausing time from the outside world. Inside the complex it was January 1957 however outside, the world had moved on beyond the lives of our heroes to 2047
The only way to reach Banshee was via The Unity and to reach The Unity, travel to the Space Tracking Station at Woomera was necessary
Our heroes discovered that certain parts of the complex - Area 6 - had been damaged and was succumbing to age. It also provided a passage to the outside world. The passage out led to an underground garage within the CSIRO Headquarters where two futuristic vehicles remained.
Finding the vehicles to be still in working order, our heroes prepared for travel to Woomera, some thirteen or so hours from Ayers Rock...
The Return (Part 1)
Our heroes have returned from the past where they attempted to discover the origins of the strange virus turning people into zombies. The intended destination of their trip through the tunnel was to take them to an alternate Earth at the turn of the century. Initially finding themselves in what seemed to be fiction come to life through the Island of Dr Moreau, they suddenly found themselves returning to the tunnel back at CSIRO. Strangely, they brought back memories of others - almost as if they had been other people in an American West that never existed. An America of 1879 where the Civil War seemed endless and a strange discovery known as Ghost Rock allowed for strange and fantastic inventions. Inventions that seemed to be corrupted by Dr Darius Hellstromme, a scientist who was self-proclaimed Governor of New Orleans. As part of his experiements, he was creating automatons - steel man-like beings that contained a brain of a man who was otherwise dead. Within this America of the past existed countless zombie-like beings, though whether Hellstromme was the ultimate creator of the creatures or merely someone who had taken advantage of their creation was unclear. Back in the Science Division Head Office laboratory underneath Ayers Rock, our heroes find the complex devoid of life. The laboratory containing the Time Tunnel showed signs of the combat that occurred upon our heroes' departure but no bodies - human or zombie could be found. The date discovered on the computers was 3 January 1957, some two months after our heroes left.
The Return (Part 0)
Our intrepid heroes have returned but have they returned as they left... Planning to discover the source of the sudden epidemic that changes normal human beings into ravaging brain-thirsty zombies, our heroes were to travel back through time. After travelling to the CSIRO Special Sciences Investigation Centre, located beneath Ayers Rock, their preparation was cut short by an attack of the zombies. Zombies it also seemed that were controlled by Klaus' daughter Liesel. Ushered quickly into the Time Tunnel, the battle around them impacted the co-ordinate setting for the tunnel and plummeted our heroes into both a change in time and worlds. It had always been researched within CSIRO the possible existence of alternate earths but no firm evidence had been discovered. The heroes arrival on the Island of Dr Moreau - a fictional character in their world - seemed to provide that evidence. Escape from the island came through stowing away on a steam powered airship was suddenly interrupted... In their world - and in their minds - no time had passed, yet our heroes suddenly had memories of other people. People who existed in an 1870's United States west that never existed in their own world. On that side trip, it was discovered that a Dr Darius Hellstromme was also connected to the creation of these zombies. Further, it was discovered that there was a connection between these alernate earths by the discovery of both a 1956 Melbourne Olympics logo and the bodies of fellow CSIRO members who had apparently gobe in search of our heroes. Among that gruesome discover was note: "Day 10. water ended. Companions dead. Not long for me. Agency tried but tunnel failed. Mr Smith needs to know. Others to follow." It was signed Commander Maija "Wheels" Riika. Beside the the discovered bodies was some form of advance-powered wheelchair Now our heroes find themselves back inside the tunnel where they started from...
The Arrival (Part 8)
With the volcano erupting all around you, you managed to board the strange via the box-like cabin that hangs below the apparently steam-powered airship. Rather than reality, this seems something more from a Jules Verne or H.G. Wells novel. Despite the strangeness of this island and its occupants, the airship seems to be the only means of escape. Though finding yourselves locked within the confines of the airship entry portal, escape may seem a strange word...
The Arrival (Part 7)
Having defeated the Beast, the way looks partially clear between warring Manimals and Men and the constant fireballs from the erupting volcano Escaping by the previously unseen gate at the rear of the compound, you follow the tracks of Moreau and company who left before you What you find is a massive vessel, shaped somewhat like helium airship - the Hindenburg in your world but obviously not a balloon as such. Something much different...
The Arrival (Part 6)
Chaos, fire... Chaos, attack... Chaos, the end of the world... This is what you see and hear all around you. The mountain that sits in the centre of the island has come alive and volcanic rock rains down upon you all. Montgomery, Moreau and selected individuals have escaped through a previously unseen gate from the compund The now-called "manimals" have attacked the compound at the exact same time As you decide to leave and follow the direction of Moreau, the Beast steps up before you, blocking your way...
The Arrival (Part 5)
"Doctor Moreau"... A few of you remember the name Moreau. He was a highly regarded physiologist in London but someone who undertook gruesome experiments in vivisection. Having been publicly exposed for his actions, he had to flee England and was lost in history Except that Doctor Moreau is a fictional character created by H.G. Wells...
The Arrival (Part 4)
The events since arriving on the uncharted island seem a blur as you fitfully rest / sleep through the night. Something not possible - something even Klaus himself would not think possible - is not only possible but has been achieved Someone, somehow in this world that was identified to you as Earth 2 or even 2.0 has achieved the impossible. They have taken an animal and somehow created a "man" The morning is disturbed by the sounds of an argument outside of the cave and some form of gun shot can be heard. Hearded out by the "animal-men", seemingly reluctantly, you find yourselves in the presence of the first "true man" you have seen since arrival The man - Montgomery - seems beligerent and insists that you come with him to the compound. At these words, you hear many of the animal-men murmur "The Man" Lead away and walking for several hours, you finally find yourselves in front of a walled structure This does not seem to be what you signed up for...
Journals
The Arrival (Part 3)
Arrival at the island has brought both comfort and concern. There is a safety factor of being back on land but at what cost. An island not chartered, not known and certainly not the location that you were being sent to. London was the planned arrival and you find yourselves very far from London but also in a time that appears to be what was planned but in a technology era that appears very different to what you know of history Following the left trail - with little knowledge of which is the correct trail during the sunset brings a challenge of how to continue. Some torches supplied by Klaus does bring a little light but also brings the realisation that Frank is missing and apparently taken against his will The additional light also identified that not all foot prints along the path are not from boots or even barefoot. Some appear to have less toe prints but still be upright...
Journals
The Arrival (Part 2)
The tunnel controls seem to have been changed in the skirmish that occured with the Time Police ending up with perhaps the right era but the wrong location - somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean rather than London Arrival at this random location leads to further challenges... the randomness of arriving on board a mid-sized vessel in an ocean locaton far from any known land seems a factor that Klaus and Rosemary would enjoy discussing Having found a way to bring the abandoned vessel back to life, an island is discovered in the distance
Journals
Arrival...
The zombies continuing to fight their way through the staff and guards, light fades and sparks fly about you as the tunnel roars to life As the cavern fades into blackness, you hear Director Van Mortfort's voice above the chaos. "Wait, recall them! Stop the transfer! Someone has hit the controls and changed their arrival location." There is a pause... "No! it can't be..." And then silence...
Journals
The End or A New Beginning?
The world - as you know it - seems to have turned to complete chaos... What was supposed to be a celebration for the country - and even on a personal level - with the opening of the 1956 Olympics and be able to watch your friend Maija "Wheels" not only represent her adopted country but carry the flag itself. And then complete mayhem. Nazi soldiers began gunning down the crowd. Those few soldiers that were shot by police did not die but raised up and continued to fight. Even through the chaos you did notice that the uniforms of the soldiers were from an earlier era and their weapons seemed to be of Russian-make. Fleeing with the others and meeting up with the CSIRO members, you have been taken on the super fast train to a new location. Here Mr Smith has outlined that the chaos here is affecting other worlds as well. He then leads you into a massive underground cavern that seems to be a major computer room and one very large man-made tunnel...
Journals
The Return? (Part 6)
After recovering from the CSIRO "Training" Camp, you find yourselves a few days out from the biggest sporting event in Australian history. The Games of the XVI Olympiad. The first time the games have been held in the Southern Hemisphere - itself creating difficulty for many countries as it creates a reversal of the seasons. For you, it is much about your colleague and friend - and relative to one - Maija. This is about her achievement against odds that would crush a lesser girl.
Journals
The Return? (Part 5)
Dr Milagre, when "herself" has indicated that the natural order of the infinite worlds not impacting the fate of another has been disrupted and that this fact could alter not just her theories but their may be a real threat to this - and other - worlds. You know it is now imperative to return to your "Home" world
Journals
The Return? (Part 4)
Chaos temporarily averted following the shoot out, the group discover that Dr Milagre, whom they remember as a fairly arrogant woman in her mid-twenties, to be a teenager (equally arrogant at times) but one who also speaks with the voice of Liesl at times. It is not just her voice but this teenage girl seems to - at times - have the memories of Klause's young daughter Dr Milagre, when "herself" has indicated that the natural order of the infinite worlds not impacting the fate of another has been disrupted and that this fact could alter not just her theories but their may be a real threat to this - and other - worlds
The Return? (Part 3)
Returning to CSIRO the next morning in search of Gabriella met with little success. Whilst Gabriella has been associated with CSIRO, she is not currently employed there. Also, she was referred to as a teenage girl, which brought some confusion as many of you thought you remembered her as older - perhaps in her middle to late twenties - but certainly not as a teenage girl. Seeking her out, after convincing Mr Smith (the fact of getting a concession out of Smith itself being an oddity). The moment you arrived at the address, mental alarm bells starting ringing. Wasn't this the house you had visited previously when looking for the girl that had been kidnapped. The house where you had been attacked by strangers who would rise from the dead? As you approached the house, attack happened once more. In this instance, the assailants did not rise from death but Klaus was injured. In the aftermath of the shooting, Klaus moved up the stairs looking for the teenage scientist...
The Return? (Part 2)
Normal clouds reality... The return to CSIRO did not go as planned. The place, the surrrounds - everything even - seemed washed of colour, even a little pale. Even the meeting with the normally surly Mr Smith seemed to not have the intensity of "normal" That night, choosing to stay together at Rosemary's house, each of you experienced a strange dream - a life that was not, perhaps even could not be true. Could not be reality... Following the strange night and as you discussed what had occurred, Dr McSwain visited, yet dawn had not even arrived Seeming even more bronzed of skin and her red hair near the colour of fire, she told you that these visions are linked to an alternate future. A future that is leading to a cataclysmic event that would not only bring ruin there but in every other alternate "world" Even as disbelief continued to grow in your minds, McSwain drew a circle in the air with her arms and some picture - even possibly a portal - appeared before you It showed a city... acity torn apart by ruin and flames. A city on fire and black smoke filled the skies in all directions The image and McSwain faded until she was gone "Seek Milagre..."
Journals
The Return?
It is morning and you have just entered the Offices of CSIRO, a place that has been your working environment (when not on field trips) for the last several months It is a place that has opened your eyes to a number of new possibilities and experiences and - safe to say - given you an opportunity to see the world in a very different way to how others see it. Those "others" do not work within the confines of this workplace Strangely, what you remember of yesterday was looking at some device that was to take you to the centre of the Earth - in itself another mental challenge as to whether that journey is even possible but then, yesterday CSIRO didn't exist. The world you knew didn't exist Today seems strangely normal. In your experiences, "normal" is not a true relection of the world around you but more a depiction of a reality that is trying to be hidden. Normal clouds reality...
Journals
What Else Could Go Wrong
Mission accomplished... mission failed... what you walked into is very different to where you are now CSIRO doesn't seem to be CSIRO... the world is definitely not the world you had woken up to yesterday Right now, guns are pointed, threats are made but no outcome seems to have been reached What else could go wrong?
New Sydney
New Sydney
Having arrived in "New Sydney" and discovered that the Australia you are in is not the Australia you remember Randome times, random worlds became the common conversation but more importantly was the question of how to return "home" This led to a new challenge. There was not the technology in New Sydney to help you home but they could provide you a way to try and discover it. To do that though meant operate on a scientist that had defected from Russia No simple operation because you had to be shrunk down to microscopic level and be inserted into the blood stream of the injured scientist Unknown to you, one of the team provided by New Sydney turned out to be a traitor and tried to destroy the Proteus. That planned failed but the ship was damaged. Frank was able to provide repairs but did not have the full time he would have like as the vessel entered the pressure of the heart...
Journals
New Sydney
Leaving the wasteland that was now Maralinga, you encountered a strange change in the daylight, just for a brief second on your return to Canberra and CSIRO. Upon reaching the coordinates that identified Canberra there was nothing. It wasn't as if the city had been destroyed, it was more that it had never existed. Not having much time to contemplate what this actually meant due to a shortage a fuel, you made your way to Sydney. Reaching Sydney airport, you found it destroyed and no usable runway. Calling for help led you to the city of Sydney where you found a wall, sealing the city just south of the Harbour Bridge. The bridge itself had been turned into a runway. Without any other choices, you landed on the bridge...
Maralinga Caves
Our intrepid adventurers discovered that the Central West was not the place of origin of the strange dirt found on the tyres and shoes of their assailants. With help from geologist Dr Emmi Stanton, the likely location was in central South Australia - specifically Maralinga. Upon approach to the area the group observed a distant explosion. An explosion that blossomed into a mushroom cloud that could mean only one thing. The extent of the UK testing of atomic bombs had moved from off shore Western Australia to the mainland itself. The impact of the explosion rendered James unconscious and left Sam and Rosemary to attempt some emergency landing, resulting in damage to the undercarriage but little else damage. Coincidence or not, the landing site was near the target zone, yet the surrounding air was already reaching dangerous radioactive levels. Taking suits, Rosemary, Klaus, Alice and Sam looked to explore the Maralinga Blowhole while James and Frank worked on repairs to the aircraft. The blowhole seemed to descend to several levels as investigated. Upon the first level a cavern was discovered that contained fifty or so metal - autopsy style tables. Oddly, each table seemed to have a skull sized hole at one end. All tables also showed several brown aged stains that were identified as dried blood. Travelling lower, the group - lessened by Sam who had succumbed to his PTSD and could not continue - discovered a tunnel that lead to a similar, though larger, cavern that was discovered above. Here, our adventurers discovered Klaus' wife and also his daughter and her grandfather. Liesel's hair was now white as snow and would account for the train shooter. Tensions rose as Klaus appraoched Liesel to release her from danger. Ludendorff - Liesel's grandfather - theatened to kill Liesl if she did not complete Helene's plans. Things became uncontrolable when Rosemary and Alive shot and killed Ludendorff. Liesl became unconsolable and seemed to explode in a blinding flash, seemingly fulfulling her mother's desires.
Mystery Bullets Rake Train
Having followed leads that indicated a young blonde child - possibly named Liesel - was responsible for the train shooting, our adventurers investigated a few leads. One resulted in a shoot out in suburbian Melbourne but also the discovery of a quite individualistic dirt on the shoes of the shooters. Taking this information to Dr Emmi Stanton - a geologist with CSIRO - it was first thought that the dirt was unique to the area in and around Ayers Rock. However further examination showed that the area in question was actually in South Australia. Specifically an area known as the Maralinga Blowhole...
Read the Report
Journals
Mystery Bullets Rake Train
Mystery Bullets Rake Train Passengers lie on floor as window glass flies… Two men and a giri missed death by inches when a hail of bullets raked two crowded railway carriages near Ormond last night. At least seven shots, probably from an automatic rifle, whistled through as the 6.26 p.m. to Frankston was 300 yards from the station. Passengers tumbled to the floor as shots pierced three windows, and lay there until the train reached Ormond. One shot smashed a window half an inch from a 10 year-old girl's head. She had been leaning against the door, and Mr. R. Selby, of Moorabbin rd.. Moorabbin, said the shot would have gone through her head had she been standing up straight. Lucky lurch Mr. A. Hardy, of Como parade, Parkdale, said a middle-aged man had been leaning forward reading a paper when the shots were fired. The train jerked and his head was flung backwards just as a bullet flew through the train in line with where his head had been. Mr. Brian Cazaly, of Patrick st" East Bentleigh, said in his carriage all the seats were occupied, and only some children carrying Show bags were' standing up. If any adults had been standing they would have been wounded, he said. Having now arrived in Melbourne - in a matter of a little over an hour (faster than a flight) by the extraordinary electromagnetic train), it is time to investigate. Done at the crime scene several casings were discovered - SMG - and a single small footprint. Getting access to the maintenance yard and with further investigation, it was determined that the shooter was likely between four and four and half foot tall. Investigation within the train turned up a piece of paper stuck under one of the carriage seats. The paper contained only one thing - a pyramid like symbol. A lead from the investigating police brought the group to a Mr A Hardy's house, who was apparently a witness to the shooting. In discussion, it turned out his son (Angus) had seemed a little blonde girl firing at the train. Angus also claimed that he knew Rosemary from being taught by her a few years back. Rosemary has no recollection of the boy or even teaching at that school. As the group were leaving a white Thunderbird pulled up outside and two men fired upon the group. In return fire, one assailant was killed and the other injured. Upon approach, the injured driver of the Thunderbird called out "For Vladimir", and then bit down on something, frothing at the mouth, and dying. During the shootout, Rosematu had quickly moved to protect Angus. After the incident, Angus said that they were to two men that had pulled up to drive the little girl away from the train shooting. As to how she got there in the first place, Angus replied that she just appeared out of thin air and shot at the train. At this, Angus cried out the name "Liesl", even as his eyes rolled back into his head and collapsed unconscious.
Mystery Bullets Rake Train
Mystery Bullets Rake TRain Passengers lie on floor as window glass flies… Two men and a giri missed death by inches when a hail of bullets raked two crowded railway carriages near Ormond last night. At least seven shots, probably from an automatic rifle, whistled through as the 6.26 p.m. to Frankston was 300 yards from the station. Passengers tumbled to the floor as shots pierced three windows, and lay there until the train reached Ormond. One shot smashed a window half an inch from a 10 year-old girl's head. She had been leaning against the door, and Mr. R. Selby, of Moorabbin rd.. Moorabbin, said the shot would have gone through her head had she been standing up straight. Lucky lurch Mr. A. Hardy, of Como parade, Parkdale, said a middle-aged man had been leaning forward reading a paper when the shots were fired. The train jerked and his head was flung backwards just as a bullet flew through the train in line with where his head had been. Mr. Brian Cazaly, of Patrick st" East Bentleigh, said in his carriage all the seats were occupied, and only some children carrying Show bags were' standing up. If any adults had been standing they would have been wounded, he said. Having now arrived in Melbourne - in a matter of a little over an hour (faster than a flight) by the extraordinary electromagnetic train), it is time to investigate...
Journals
Mystery Bullets Rake TRain
Passengers lie on floor as window glass flies… Two men and a giri missed death by inches when a hail of bullets raked two crowded railway carriages near Ormond last night. At least seven shots, probably from an automatic rifle, whistled through as the 6.26 p.m. to Frankston was 300 yards from the station. Passengers tumbled to the floor as shots pierced three windows, and lay there until the train reached Ormond. One shot smashed a window half an inch from a 10 year-old girl's head. She had been leaning against the door, and Mr. R. Selby, of Moorabbin rd.. Moorabbin, said the shot would have gone through her head had she been standing up straight. Lucky lurch Mr. A. Hardy, of Como parade, Pnrkdale, said a middle-aged man had been leaning forward reading a paper when the shots were fired. The train jerked and his head was flung backwards just as a bullet flew through the train in line with where his head had been. Mr. Brian Cazaly, of Patrick st" East Bentleigh, said in his carriage all the seats were occupied, and only some children carrying Show bags were' standing up. If any adults had been standing they would have been wounded, he said.
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body... As the adventurers were left to investigate around the lake shore, they discover an undiscovered tunnel. Encountering firstly crabs of immense size near the tunnel that led into the hills beside the lake, the adventurers found a steel plate that nothing could be found to pass through it. The adventurers, however found a tunnel in the ceiling of the cavern that led to a large disused computer room some twenty feet below the ceiling tunnel. Lowering themselves into the computer room, they were set upon by large spiders whose eyes appeared to be dead to look upon. The beasts themselves also rose when killed until killed a second time. Searching the room, papers were discovered disclosing some family trees of Klaus' daughter Liesel linking her back to the infamous Dr Poison, whose exploits in the Great War included the invention of a poison gas used upon the allied troops. The connection to this nefarious Doctor came through Liesel's mother, who left Klaus and Liesel soon after her birth and has not been seen since. The group were surprised by a creature, black in colour and claw-like webbed hands and gills in its neck. Could this be the creature that the unlucky cadets encountered to their doom. Just as combat with this beast seemed inevitable, a strange cry was uttered by the creature followed by a plea for help... Defeating the beasts, the team moved through the cave to find a vertical shaft. This shaft has led them to a cavern that seems like a scientific laboratory. Computers sit idle in the cavern Lowering his friends into the cavern, Frank finds himself at a loss as to how to enter the cavern without falling to his doom...
The Secrets of Lake George
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body... As the adventurers were left to investigate around the lake shore, they discover an undiscovered tunnel. Dragging their way through the small tunnel they have discovered strange beings - giant crabs Defeating the beasts, the team moved through the cave to find a vertical shaft. This shaft has led them to a cavern that seems like a scientific laboratory. Computers sit idle in the cavern Lowering his friends into the cavern, Frank finds himself at a loss as to how to enter the cavern without falling to his doom...
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body... As the adventurers were left to investigate around the lake shore, they came across the vessel used by the cadets. Finding strange, faint claw marks at the bow and stern - claw marks seemingly undiscovered by the military - they continued their exploration, finding drag marks through the undergrowth leading away from the lake... Investigating the tunnel they discovered, the adventurers discovered a cave system leading into the hills. Their investigation was halted by the discovery of a sealed metal plate in the rock wall and two sets of strange footrprints either side...
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body... As the adventurers were left to investigate around the lake shore, they came across the vessel used by the cadets. Finding strange, faint claw marks at the bow and stern - claw marks seemingly undiscovered by the military - they continued their exploration, finding drag marks through the undergrowth leading away from the lake...
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body...
The Secrets of Lake George
Something lurks within the murky waters of Lake George Of the five Duntroon cadets missing for four days now, only the body of Cadet Jorgensen had been recovered Late on the day of the 12th, however a grizzly discovery made - the arm of one of the missing cadets, yet unidentified. The arm appeared to have been torn from the body...
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