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Author	Topic: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/26/99 9:04pm Subject: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	I can't post in the previous posting for some reason, so... Chapter One Deepest space. The Unknown Region. Not so unknown now, thought Grand Admiral Thrawn, Commander of the First Imperial survey Team into the vast unexplored region of the Galaxy, as he looked out the main viewport of the Imperial Star Destroyer Death's Head. After 25,000 years of space travel by most space faring species in the Galaxy, there were still some corners of Imperial space that had to be mapped out. Worlds that had to be tamed and introduced to Imperial doctrine. He had seen much during the course of his mission. Had briefly visited home, settled old scores and made plans for the future of the Empire...his Empire, if the last rumors he heard from Coruscant were to be belived. He wanted to return as soon as possible; he could not trust the seat of power to that megalomanical veetchea Isard. She was brilliant, yes, but she lacked vision. She was also petty and cruel, and the furthermost thing from her mind was order. The order the Empire promised and that he would deliver. But before he could begin the long journey back, he would explore one more world. An uncharted world just discovered a few days before after receiving long range transmissions emanating from a distant yellow star. "Admiral Thrawn", said Major Dunin as he stepped out of one of the bridge's command trenches. "We just ran some of the random transmissions through the universal translators. We've found them rather...interesting." "Indeed, Major? Well, let's see what you've found. Any relevant information on the world they originate from?" "Yes sir. We're not one hundred percent certain yet, but they appear to be standard communications broadcasts. News and entertainment...we can't exactly call them holos. The signals are very weak and the resolution is rather primitive. Some of the transmission are traveling in the radionics' spectrum and we had to cobble up equipment to be able to receive and decode them." "Radionics...yes, primitive indeed. To modern, Imperial standards of course. But they do indicate that their point of origin is a post-industrialist world. Are they space-flight capable, Major?" "From what we've seen in random broadcasts, not very much. The predominant species on the planet is human, though we do not understand how they happen to be here, so far from the Core. They seem to be limited to low orbit flights. From what we've gathered from one particular viewing, their grandest achievments in space exploration have been setting foot on their natural satellite and the launching of various interplanetary and extra-solar probes, if you can believe that", smirked the Major. Thrawn smiled softly. "Remember, Major, all great civilizations have humble beginnings. So this one is still on the proverbial cradle. Planetary government and defenses?" "The transmissions indicate that there are many ethnic, linguistic, social and even genetic differences amongst the populace. Very violent differences too, from what we've been able to piece together. There does not seem to be a central ruling government, but rather major separate governments across the continental masses. As for their defenses...well, they seem pitiful to tell the truth. No match for ours, really." The major allowed himself a small chuckle at that. Thrawn arched an eyebrow, not necessarily amused. "That remains to be seen major. We have been unplesantly surprised many times during our journey". Thrawn's voice took a chilly edge. "That will not happen again. All factions whithin this area are not to be underestimated". Dunin gulped softly, shifting a little in his stance as he caught a glimpse of the Grand Admiral's alien bodyguard, the Noghri Rukh, coming closer to the Admiral's side. "I understand sir, I meant no disrespect.." "Of course not, Major." Thrawn smiled again, eyes fixed on the various flickering images on the holodisplay. "I will see all the data you've gathered at my leisure, Major. Be sure the information will be waiting for me in my ready room. News, arts and ertainment, you said?" "Yes, Admiral". Thrawn smiled at this with renewed interest. "Excellent major. I shall retire to examine your data more closely." Thrawn began to walk away from the bridge, but suddenly stopped and turned around, looking at the major as he suddenly remembered something very important. "That world major, what do they call it?" "Yes Admiral". Dunin looked once more at his display. "As I explained to you, there are many linguistic differences amongs the inhabitants, but they have one uniform name for their world. They call it 'Earth'". 'Earth'. How quaint, thought Thrawn. Yet at the same time it had a certain wholesomeness to it. It probably, simply meant 'home' to them as much as another world's name meant the same to any other sentient in the galaxy. He would study these 'Earthers'. Somehow, he knew that they'd be rather fascinating...in their own quaint way. "Very well Major, I shall view your data with the utmost interest. I expect to be finished by 0600 hours tomorrow. By then, we will assemble the fleet and make a jump into their outer system. I want to take a closer look and see if these Earthers will make worthy subjects of the Empire." "Understood sir. We shall be ready." "Of course Major. Carry On", said the alien Grand Admiral as he stepped out of the bridge. [This message has been edited by Darth_Invidious (edited 10-24-1999).] -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/27/99 6:13am Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Umm...anyone wanna try adding to this while I crunch down the plot? -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Shadowen Registered: May '99	Date Posted: 9/27/99 12:24pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	A very...imaginative species, Thrawn thought. At least, early on and religiously. He shook his head slowly as he read further and further on. Unfortunately, they forgot the very thing that stimulates creativity, he mused sadly. [/i]Suppression[i] of creativity. Since so many countries now have freedom of speech, almost everything supposedly creative is mostly "cookie cuttered", as they say, from other sources. He sighed. At least, that's the way it is for published work. "Interesting," Charles Xavier murmured softly. Lilandra nodded over the holographic communication. "And you say that your sources track them back to the Core?" She nodded again. "Yes. At the moment, there are several groups there fighting armed rebellion against the current government. From what we've seen, it's highly centralized--there seem to be many references to an 'Emperor Palpatine'." She looked away for a moment, probably looking at another report. "Although there are some reports that this Palpatine is dead and the galaxy is in major political upheaval." Xavier sighed, gazing at the stars outside the window. "Anything else?" "Hold on..." Then, she fairly jumped in surprise. "Yes. It seems there is an expeditionary force--a warship or two, apparently--searching the systems nearest to yours." She paused briefly before continuing. "And they're headed for Earth." Enjoy! -----signature----- Misanthropy! Just one of the many services we offer!
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/27/99 6:21pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	This story takes place shortly after X-men 1-3 Chapter 3 Scott Summers watched the training section from the Danger Room's control booth and sighed softly. Ten different confrontations and every time the same result: The Magneto simulacrum handed the X-men's heads to them over and over again. It wasn't easy; he at least had to admit that. The X-Men had won their latest -- and probably last confrontation with the Master of Magnetism through default: Asteroid M had been fired upon by a soviet Energy beam, considerably weakening the structure and its own Master. The x-Men evacuated the doomed base, but Magnus and his followers stayed behind, as martyrs for their cause. And the sad fact is that the second, third and now fourth generation of X-Men have never been able to beat Magneto decisevely. Every time they fought him the X-Men pulled through out of sheer luck. And the man called Cyclops had to wonder if -- on that first fight, so long ago -- it was luck, not skill, what had won them the day. He leaned over on the mike and spoke to the raggled teammates down below. “Most impressive people. Truly. Yet one more extraordinary defeat for our camp. I really was under the impression that we were a team. But the less I’ve seen in all the sim-runs is teamwork. Again and again you’re trying to take Magneto down as individuals. I thought we all had moved past that failing strategy a while ago. Anyone care to explain? Ororo? Peter?” Naturally, Storm and Colossus were still quite sullen from that last run and neither felt very outspoken after a beating like that. Naturally, there was one very outspoken person down there who always felt he had to give him a piece of his mind. “There’s really nothing to explain bossman. This is just a game. None of us were really facin’ Bucket-head. These’re just wargames. We run ‘em and try learnin’ from them. We just faced him awhile ago and after that fight, who’s to say he’s gonna threaten us any time soon? What I’d like to know is why we’re jumpin’ thru Chuckie’s hoops again an’ again. You just know how much I love doing that, bub.” Scott gnashed his teeth. That little creep somehow always found a way to get under his skin. And just looking at the grin creeping on his face he knew Logan enjoyed doing that very much. "That's funny, coming from you Wolverine. I particularly remember the Magneto sim batting you around like a rag doll because of your adamantium skeleton. Have you ever wondered what would happen if Magneto got creative and tried yanking it out of you out of spite?" Logan barked a mix of a scoff and a chuckle. "Never gonna happen bub. He'll never get that close to me to try that kinda stunt an' live to tell about it." "Hopefully, you'll never have to find out Logan" replied Scott. He then looked at Colossus. "Same goes for you Peter. You should know by know that your metallic form makes you extremely vulnerable to him. And you tried to duke it out with him?!" The big russian smiled sheepishly. "I guess, tovarishch, I got overconfident. I thought I could blinside him." "Well, you thought wrong. If the Asteroid M scenario had been the real thing, you would've found yourself expelled out of the hull and discovered first-hand the pleasures of freefall from 35,000 miles. Luckily, Jean saved you just in time..." A voice suddenly rang in his head. Jean. Not exactly impressed by his Pro-football-coach-style berating on the 'troops'. "Scott, hun, aren't you being too rough on them. It was just a Danger Room session. We don't always win them all here." Scott 'replied' at her through their psionic rapport. "Maybe hun, but I have a feeling that's simply not going to be good enough anymore. The x-Men are going to have to be at their best and give 200% of themselves. The world...the Universe...is simply too dangerous for us now. And we have to be ready for whatever threat may come our way." Before she could reply to this, the intercomm in the control room beeped softly. Cyclops walked to the mainboard and hit a key on the comm panel. "Cyclops here." "Scott, I need you to assemble the team and come meet me in my study. I've received rather distressing news." Scott frowned a bit as he looked at the team and then back to the comm panel. "What's going on Professor? A new rogue mutant?". He paused briefly."...has Magneto returned?" "No Scott, not exactly. It seems this planet is about to receive visitors soon." The Profesor sighed softly before continuing. "Not necessarily the most friendly kind of visitors." -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/27/99 9:00pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Chapter 4 "A swirling whirlpool of nothingness and starstuff", thought Luke Skywalker as he watched the mottled sky of hyperspace, speeding past the Millenium Falcon's viewport. Watching the twisting universe envelop the ship helped him, in its own strange way, to settle his anxiety over this journey. Or to be more precise, this wild mynock chase of Han's he had been dunce enough to hop along in. Three days ago the Falcon took off on a journey to a place no single pilot or smuggler had -- very literally -- gone before: the Unknown Regions. No one, it seems, except Han Solo. Luke glanced to the pilot's section, watching Han studying the navicomputer and the charts that had long ago been burned on the ship's memorybanks. The frown on his brother-in-law's face didn't inspire much confidence in the mission. Jedi Knight or not, he felt very ill at ease here. He looked out the window again and broke the silence. "When exactly was it that you were this way?" "Mmm...couple of years before I met you, while Chewie and I were working our trade in the Corporate Sector", said Han. "I ran across this old smuggler that claimed to have made a few runs deep into the Unknown Regions and he showed me some of the charts and routes he took. Some think he liked to dare a lot of the young guns in that tavern to head out into the Great Unexplored Wilderness for drinks or favors. Me, I think he expected them to never return so he'd take over their business. Too bad for him, no one took him seriously." "No one save you", grinned Luke. Chewbacca hurfed-hurfed softly in the co-pilot's seat and growled a few grunts in Wookie. "Hey fuzzball, it wasn't that I expected some great reward for my trouble --" "Han Solo? The old Han Solo, not expecting any reward for his trouble??", Luke gasped mockingly, remembering the blusterous Han as he had fisrt met him. Solo glared and made a face at him before he continued "-- it's just that work was slow and I needed something to do in my down time. So Chewie and me just went out and took a looksee." "Saw anything intesresting?", asked Luke. "We didn't see much, just a couple of systems on one sector before heading back home. Pretty primitive stuff. One particular place was just post-industrialist. Hardly any space-faring technology. Not even repulsorlifts on their landspeeders. Speeders with wheels. Almost hard to believe." "Yeah, almost." Luke agreed half heartedly. Tatooine had been as backwater as worlds came. But despite the infernal heat, trillions of square miles of sand, psychotic Tuskens and pesty Jawas, he would not have wanted to live there without any decent spaceport or spacecraft that could take him off that place in a hurry. Much less traveling from the homestead to Anchorhead and back across the Dune Sea on something that travelled on wheels. "Is that were we're going?" "Yeah. Might as well start lookin' there, if that rumor I heard is true. I figure that old Kerk might've sold those routes too a friend; that friend to another friend and so on till the Empire got 'em. If they wanted to set a foothold in the UnkTers, they might as well start there. Mazzic heard from a guy named Karrde something about an Imperial expedition launched a few years ago. For all we know, there could be a few good sized strongholds out there right now." Chewbacca growled in agreement, adding a few more possibilities. Han grimaced and shook his head. "Well that's a cheerful thought. But I'm not counting on popping out in the middle of an Imperial shipyard or a new Death Star construction project. This is still pretty far away from the Core. They'd need a lot of support and we'd have noticed that kinda movememnt out of the remants of the Empire". "Still", Luke concluded, "I guess it's worth checking out. We don't need any nasty surprises coming out of here any time soon. We've got our hands full back home as it is." "My thoughts exactly kid. See Chewie, I knew he'd turned around." Luke chuckled. "More like following what you'd call a Jedi hunch. What's the name of this system?" "I don't think it has any particular name. The Falcon's translators' tried picking the native languages with a little luck. The locals just call it the Solar System. Small yellow star, nine planets with assorted moons and debris. You know, the usual. Just one inhabited; third rock from the sun. Plenty of sea and land masses, but boy have they fouled up their air. I wonder if they're still alive. Anyway, we'll find out soon. We'll be coming out of hyperspace in their outer system in a couple of hours. Hopefully, there won't be any nasty surprises waiting for us when we pop out." "Hopefully", Luke thought. Considering where they were going, the less surprises along the found, the better it'd be for all concerned. Even with the Force as his ally and his trusted comrades at his side, they were very far away from home, with no hope of rescue if things turned for the worse. He closed his eyes, letting the Force flow through him, seeking wisdom and foresight. Nothing came, either encouraging or less so. "Difficult to see. Always in motion the future is" Yoda had said. How right he had been. As the Falcon soared closer to their destination, he indeed hoped for the best. -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/28/99 7:23am Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Chapter 5 Yet, as their creativity or otherwise creative genius grew, so did their capacity to inflict pain and misery upon each other and their world. Here is a branch of humanity that has found boundless joy in mutually exterminating one another. As time passed, the means of becoming so became more violent; the reasons for doing so more frivolous. Entire populations wiped out because of the color of their skin, their ethnic background, or the God they worship. I have seen it before in other similarly primitive cultures. Their artistic history presents such similarities. But this world...this "Earth" and its people have gone through so many horrors in so little time...the populace has become jaded, cynical and more recalcitrant than ever in learning from the mistakes of the past. Their different beliefs and gods do not support them anymore. Nor do they have any real faith on their governments and distinct figureheads. Their minds and hearts are not even stirred by their heroes... "So this is their home", Thrawn softly murmured to himself as he hast in the chair of his command room, carefully studying all the assorted on the world he and his task force was rapidly approaching. He had heard distant rumors from assorted sources of humans from a distant part of the galaxy gifted with extraordinary powers, forever separating them from their peers. How these champions had dedicated themselves to protect their world and their universe from any number of threats. He had heard from many a Kree and Skrull how these group of so called "Avengers" had thwarted their latest skirmish into the other's territory. From another source how a family had banded itself into a fantastic foursome that managed to actually repel many invading alien armies and an assault on their world by a ancient, world-devouring force known as Galactus. And he heard other rumors about the legendary cosmic fire known as the Phoenix. That its current human avatar owed allegiance to this people, and that once, long ago, it had single handedly saved the universe from total destruction. Thrawn inhaled softly, both trepidation and exhilaration stirring in his core. For many years he had wanted to visit this world and pit his wits and skills and the full military might of the Empire in its conquest. But the world's location had always eluded. And now, so far away from the Empire or his Bastion, with just a fleet of three Imperial Star Destroyers and support craft...he briefly wondered if it would be enough. He smiled softly. At this point, he actually did not know the outcome of this encounter...but the Grand Admiral suspected it would prove very interesting. And, above all things, most informative. -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/28/99 6:08pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Chapter 6 Earth – Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters After meeting for half an hour in his study, Professor X, Cyclops and Storm assembled the team in the mansion’s War Room; the X-Men’s Tactical Operations/Information Retrieval Center. Charles Xavier briefly explained to the assembled fourteen mutants – his students, his children -- the situation as it stood. Surprisingly, it was one of the less vocal and newest students who broke the momentary silence after the Professor finished his briefing. “So, lemme get dis straight. You sayin’ dat some alien baddies be comin’ dis way and that Lil’s spooked enough by ‘em that she had to send ya dis warnin’? Fine, but how does dis concern us, mon ami?” asked the Acadian mutant known only as Gambit. Hank McCoy, the Beast, nodded in agreement. “Gambit has a good point Professor. It’s not like Earth has not had hostile extraterrestrial visitors before. And all of us, including the Avengers and the FF, have summarily dealt with them. What makes these newest arrivals so different that they demand our immediate attention?” “Overconfidence in our collective abilities aside Henry, the fact is that Earth has never encountered these aliens before, making this a rather dangerous first contact situation.” Xavier sighed briefly before continuing, hitting buttons on a nearby console. A second later, an image of five Imperial ships appeared in the holo display in the middle of the staff table. “This is a holofeed caught by a Shi’ar scout ship heading out of our system. That is the alien expeditionary force. It consists of heavy warships, which Lilandra deemed as ‘most impressive’ by Shi’ar standards…” Bobby Drake leaned on the table on one elbow and scratched his forehead as he muttered his opinion of the kilometer long Star Destroyers “’Impressive’ as in impressive enough to kick our asses if they get rowdy, right?” Cyclops grinned lopsidedly at Iceman’s remark. “Seems to be that way Bobby. However, what impresses the Shi’ar should be of great concern to us”, said Scott, with an edge in his voice. Storm continued for him. “These ‘Imperials’ seem to be one side of a galactic civil war that has been going on for quite a long time on the other side of this galaxy. As their name implies, they seemed to represent the legitimate yet not-so-democratic government of that sector until a few years ago, when their Emperor and key members of his ruling council died during a decisive battle against the rebel forces. Since then the rebels have established a new government called ‘The New Republic’ while the remnants of the Imperial military have retreated, trying at the same time to retain some of their old territory and to undermine the authority of the democratic New Republic.” “This ‘Empire’ seems to be expansion minded and somewhat xenophobic. Lilandra has informed me that the Empire nor the previous government it replaced, the Old Republic, had ventured so far into this side of the galaxy. That means that if they are expanding many more ships besides that small expeditionary force may be on their way,” added Xavier grimly. “It also means that they might be inclined to invade us if Earth appeals to their needs”. He paused as he looked at the grim faces of his students. They understood the implications all too well. Logan simply scratched a match against the table’s woodwork and lit a cigar. He took a puff and exhaled it softly after a few seconds, looking at the Professor with a predatory smile and deadly serious eyes. “Well Chuck, if they’re stupid enough to try, they’re gonna regret it pretty quick.” “We can only hope that will be the case. And please Logan, for the last time, don’t call me that nor light those things here. It’s a clean room, after all” “Sure, Chuck”, said Wolverine with a grin. Xavier looked up and sighed, giving up. “In any case, I will shortly contact Alex in X-Factor and Kurt in Excalibur and inform them of the situation. I suspect we’re going to need all the help we can get. With the core Avengers and the Fantastic Four otherwise engaged in off world missions, the line of defense is considerably thin. I expect the X-Factor government liaison, Dr. Valerie Cooper will inform Nicholas Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the President for additional support. “What about X-Force, Charles?” asked Banshee. “Shouldn’t we contact them as well?” “I have tried on several occasions to contact Cable’s people, Sean, without success. By reasons yet unknown to me none of my telepathic probes have been able to locate them. Even with Cerebro engaged at the highest power and range possible. I know you’re worried about your daughter Theresa and the rest of the children. God willing they’ll surface to help if they are needed.” “And if they got the stones for it”, muttered Jubilee just as she popped a gum-bubble. “They might hide in a deeper hidey-hole while the invasion blows over.” “Knowing Samuel, Jubilation“, chided Wolverine”-- and knowing the kinda guys Cable is – I don’t think that’ll be the case. I figure they’ll be into the thick of things before you know it.” “I agree as well, Logan”, said Storm. “Goddess willing, their help will not be needed at all.” “You don’ truly believe DAT, do you Stormy?” asked Gambit. Ororo Munroe sighed, briefly glancing at Cyclops’ and the Professor’s stony faces, then turned back to face him, her catlike blue eyes staring deeply into Gambit’s crimson-black orbs as she shook her head softly. “No Gambit, not at all”, she conceded sadly. ------------------------------------------- On the outer rim of the asteroid belt, just outside the orbit of Jupiter. The Imperial expeditionary force jumped out of hyperspace silently in the void of interplanetary space. It had been deemed prudent not to jump out right on top their target without having complete knowledge of the planetary defenses. It had been assumed that such defenses were inexistant, but a last minute decision by Grand Admiral Thrawn had changed the pre-scheduled exit point, landing the fleet in the outskirts of the remains of what probably was the system's original fifth planet. Captain Ardiff, of the Imperial Star Destroyer "Death's Head" looked out of the bridge viewport, staring at the assorted pieces of cosmic detritus floating outside. He hated asteroid belts. It brought on too many bad memories. One of them was of the Graveyard, the remains of Alderaan. He, like many of the Fleet's top officers, was appalled at the wanton destruction of that world and did not mourn the destruction of the Death Star. Tarkin deserved what he got for being such a low born Sithspawn. Of course, he'd never vocalize such an opinion out loud to anyone. In some circles, Wilhuf Tarkin was considered a hero and a martyr and he hated to get into any arguments that tried to deface that image. Another bad memory was the reckless chase of that single rebel freighter, the Millenium Falcon, deep into the Hoth Asteroid Field. Lord Vader's obsession led to the death of two personal friends: Captain Ornash of the Instigator, when a rogue asteroid destroyed the command tower of that star Destroyer, and Captain Needa of the Avenger, who displeased the Dark Lord when he lost the freighter. He hoped the masked freak was slowly broiling in all the hells there were... He stepped away from the viewport, headed to the starboard crew pit and signaled the duty officer at the comm station. "Inform Grand Admiral Thrawn that we have arrived at our destination. Tactical, increase sector scan across one lightyear. I don't want anything coming in or heading out of the system without our knowing about it." "Captain", the tactical officer called, "new contact, coming out of hyperspace, 30 klicks off our starboard. Seems like..a small yacht or freighter?" "Put it on my tactical display, let me see it!" Ardiff called out, almost growling. Such surprises so soon. Incredible. He leaned on the ho -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Shadowen Registered: May '99	Date Posted: 9/29/99 12:38pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	"Warning," the security system's voice rang out. "Unidentified spacecraft in-system." "So soon?" Xavier said, turning to the tactical display. "Put it on screen." The long-range radar array, disguised as a TV satellite dish on the mansion and a TV satellite in space, put up a strange picture: a massive blue blotch made up of three large wedge shapes and assorted other outlines following a tiny, circular blue blotch. "Now, de big mess is d'Imperials, neh?" Remy asked. "I believe so," Charles murmured. "So the little dot is an enemy of some sort. I doubt the New Republic would send an attack force, but you'd think they would send ships capable of defending themselves." "They did: observe the most miniscule of the ships," Hank said. "What?" Jubilee said after a moment. "Following close on the supposed Republic's ship's tail are many small dots. However, whenever they get too close, these dots seem to wink out," Beast explained. "Apparently, the small dots are the equivalent of fighter craft. There certainly are a great amount of them, and they're the only ships that seem capable of keeping up with the other one." "Could we open communications?" Scott asked, blood flowing at the sight of such a monstrous battle. "I do not know if that would be wise. They probably think we are fairly primitive," Charles said, "And so using Shi'Ar class technology could draw attention to us. At the moment, the only advantage we have is surprise." "If they have the proper equipment--and I'm betting they do--they'll scan in orbit and find us anyway," Scott countered. The Professor sighed. "Very well. Open frequencies." Hey, sorry. I thought I might be going too far, so I stopped. -----signature----- Misanthropy! Just one of the many services we offer!
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/30/99 12:15am Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Chapter 7 The twisting sky of hyperspace shifted to star lines and then back to real space, as the Millenium Falcon arrived in the Inner Solar System. Just as quickly as they arrived the Falcon's proximity alert started blaring, making Han take quick look at the navicomp and just as quickly making him wish he hadn't. "Aw shavit, I don't believe this! Chewie! Charge up the shields and the quads. We’re making a run for that asteroid belt!" Han muttered to himself. What is it with this ship and Imperial ambushes?! Luke woke up from his slight daze and looked at Han's flurry of activity. "Han? What--?" "Star Destroyers, 30 klicks ahead. I just don't believe this. I really hate it when you're right Chewie." Luke gazed out into the void, using the Force to enhance his sight. Yes, out there right in front of them. Not just three Imperial Star Destroyers, but also a Nebulon II Frigate and an Escort carrier. Enough firepower and starfighters to turn a good sized world into so much slag. But what were they doing here? Had the third planet in the system become an Imperial Stronghold and was this the sector fleet? Or did they just stumble on this world as much as Kerk and and Han had done years ago? Luke gazed harder, eyes closed almost to slits and saw the small number of craft emerging from one of the Star Destroyer's hangar bays. "They're launching fighters Han. I think I better head down to one of the quads". "Good idea kid. We have a head start, but not by much when it concerns TIE's." Han looked down at the sensor display, frowning and muttering another curse. "Yeah, standard fighters and Interceptors. They'll be all over us in a few minutes. Better head to the top quad station Luke. I'll make a run to the asteroids and use 'em for cover while we get enough range to make a jump outta here". Luke started running out of the cockpit, hearing Chewbacca growl impatiently and Han reply to him with a "don't tell me how familiar this situation is! I already know it dammit!" One of these days he really had to get around and ask Han what was the private joke with him, the Falcon and asteroids Chewie and Leia always grilled him with. Luke climbed the leader connecting the quad cannon stations, reoriented himself in the gravity discontinuity and settled down on the seat of the top quad station. He lit up the targetting computer, indicating the range between the Falcon and the incoming fighters. Three minutes before they were in firing range. He switched to another display, projecting the plotted course and a countdown chrono indicating the time till the Falcon cleared both the asteroid field and the nearby gas giant's gravity well before it could do a microjump deeper in system and out of the fight. Twenty minutes. Which would give them about 17 or so minutes or teeth-rattling evasive manuevers and creative sharpshooting till they were out of the fight. The Star Destroyer had launched a full squadron after them. He thought, curiously, that they should feel honored for such a warm welcome. Han's voice squaked over the comlink headset. "Look alive kid. They'll be in range soon". "Got it Han. Just fly hard and fast and we'll lose them in no time." “Report, Captain”, said the Grand Admiral as he stepped into the bridge. “Yes sir. A small ship entered the system just 5 minutes ago. I’ve just launched a squadron of fighters to intercept it”. Thrawn cocked a blue black eyebrow, his glowing red eyes widening just a bit. “A squadron captain. A bit of overkill, don’t you think, for a single ship? Anyone we know?” Ardiff stiffened, handing a datacard to the alien admiral. "I believe so sir. Sensors identify the ship as a Corellian YT-1300 Stocklight freighter. But as to what’s it doing here so far from home…well sir, your guess is as good as mine." Thrawn frowned softly, looking at the tactical display. "Oh, I can do much better than that. Of course you recognize that ship. It is the Millenium Falcon, captained by Rebellion hero Han Solo. As to what is it doing here…perhaps this is just a coincidental accident. However, I do not believe in such events. If Captain Solo or perhaps other leaders of the Rebellion -- such as Princess Leia Organa -- have come here, of all places, perhaps they are looking to make allegiances with some of the inhabitants of that world. “And if that is the case Captain, it could upset the entire balance of power back home. Tell the fighters to disable the freighter and move us in to intercept. I want prisoners to interrogate.” Ardiff frowned, puzzled. What could possibly live in this side of the galaxy that could present a clear and present danger to the Empire such as the Grand Admiral implied? “And if they resist capture, Admiral”, said Ardiff with just a hint of malevolency in his voice and face, but quickly stiffled it before Thrawn could notice it. Of course, Thrawn did, as he smiled softly. “I suppose, then, they’ll have to be destroyed. However, it is of vital importance that they tell us what they are doing here and now. Begin charging the tractor beams, Captain." The TIE Fighters and Interceptors were in firing range now, pounding the Falcon’s shields mercilessly as it drove into the asteroid field. It wasn’t as densely packed as other such fields he had seen before, thought Luke. There was enough distance between the objects to allow the Falcon – and unfortunately, its pursuers – passage with impunity. Luke concentrated, letting the Force flow through him as he triggered the quads, catching two of the pursuing fighters with glancing blasts; destroying one and making the other lose control and smash into one of the floating pieces of debris. “Just hang in there kid. We’re almost in jump range now,” Han bellowed into the comm, trying hard to hide the agitation in his voice. Apparently, the Imperial presence in this sector still had him more than a bit rattled. He himself was a bit rattled, and more than a little concerned at the size of that Imperial fleet, so far from any Imperial stronghold and the explored borders of the galaxy. Han’s informant has apparently been right about the Imperial mapping expedition into the Unknown. He breathed deeply, letting the Force flow through him, calming his thoughts and focusing on the task at hand. He fired at the incoming fighters as if blaster bolts were being rationed, taking one after the other and crippling enough of their pursuers to make them turn around back to their mothership. Luke took a look at the tactical display, grimacing at what it showed him. “Han, the lead ImpStar’s launching more fighters and moving in to intercept. We have to get out of here now!” “I know that and I’m trying to kid! We still need five more minutes before we’re out of the thick of the debris field. Just hang in there.” Not half a second passed after he said this that a violent impact shook the whole ship, almost launching Han and Chewbacca out of their seats and into the forward viewport. Han shok his head, staring at the suddenly illuminated control panel, alarms and lights flashing across all the displays. Great, we’re in range of their big guns now, Han said to himself. Another turbolaser blast grazed the dorsal shield, knocking it down. And from the sound of it, thought Han, probably took out something more vital. So much for jumping home now. He glanced at the chrono in the navicomp, which, thank all the stars that shone down on Corellia, still seemed to be working. Three more minutes before they were out of it. “Chewie, take over, I’m heading out back to see if we didn’t lose anything vital with that blast!” Chewbacca growled a query at him and Han shook his head. “No, I haven’t the faintest idea what could be wrong. Just keep dodging them and tell me when we’re clear of the field. Got it?” Chewbacca growled an assent and Han ran to the back of the ship, inspecting the main accesses to the subl -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/30/99 6:16am Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	As I said before, anyone please feel free to add to this if they'd like. (And give me feedback!) MTFBWYA -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Purp Registered: Apr '99	Date Posted: 9/30/99 1:57pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	You want feedback? Keep writing! You're doing an excellent job with both the X-Men and the Star Wars parts of the story. I would join in, but I don't know nearly enough about the X-guys to help out. I still love reading about them, though! Keep it up.
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Amidala22 Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/30/99 8:22pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	WRITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -----signature----- 'Shots in the Dark' http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=8774613 "Fear is no one's Ally">Sari-'Angel's Plight' http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=8234696 "Rebel High" http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=7087285 Please Read!!
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 9/30/99 10:06pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Thx for the kind words Purp and Amidala 22. I'll try to do my best. And now... Chapter 8 "That's pretty much it, Nicky. We got some interstellar navy-boys on their way and odds are they aren't stopping here to take pictures and some R & R. Just thought you boys should know when the time comes to roll out the welcome wagon." On the other side of the telecomm, Nicholas Fury, director of the Strategic Hazard Intervention, Espionage and Logistics Directorate chewed on his stogie, stone- faced, not sharing the blazé demeanor of the diminutive Canadian X-Man that was bending his ear. "I hear ya Logan. Val Cooper called me up an hour ago and pretty much spinned me the same yarn. I'm meeting with her, the President and the Joint Chiefs an hour from now. Problem is, no offense, I can't exactly tell the white House where I'm getting this information. Val's gonna have the same problem. Mainly coz yer supposed invaders haven't showed their ugly mugs yet." Wolverine grimaced, laid back on his chair, legs resting on the comm-console, also chewing the stub of a stogie. "I kinda figured that. No way the U.S. government's gonna take seriously any threat of alien invasion spouted off by mutant outlaws. As for not knowing where they are, can't you point the Hubble or any of your dirty-tricks sky-eyes spaceward to at least scope out the neighborhood?" "Problem with that, shortstuff, is that we wouldn't know where to start looking for 'em. I already put the word on Space Command to keep their eyes peeled. But as it is, odds are that we ain't gonna get that decent an early warning. We've got some space vehicles an' assorted doodahs we could throw at 'em, but not enough to stop anything the size of that fleet ya showed me." Fury stubbed out his cigar and let out an uncharacteristic sigh. Bad joss, thought Logan, if Nick's spooked like that."We'll be ready to mobilize EVERYTHING, if they show up and decide to set up shop dirtside. But taking out that fleet, well, that's something heavy-hitters like your people are more'n qualified to handle, Canucklehead. Too bad Steve, the Avengers and Doc Richard's people are unavailable right now now. We could use their firepower." "Well, if 'our people' fail Nicky, you can go ahead and recruit folks like Spider-Man an' the Hulk. I'm sure they can do no worse" added Wolverine with a smirk. "Yer real funny, y'know Logan. You should do stand up." "Dunno what you're talking about Colonel Fury, I got no sense of humor." "No kidding. See you later, Captain Logan. I gotta put on a suit and head for Pennsylvania Avenue to try to convince the President we got a crisis coming. I'll keep you folks posted. Fury out." With that, the telecomm display went blank and Logan got up his chair, lighting another cigar. Never a dull day around this house, thought Logan grimly. Of course, he smiled to himself, he doubted he wouldn't have it any other way. ------------------------------------------ "It's quite simple actually", said Xavier as he patted the Cerebro helmet, the main interface unit of his telepathy amplifier/mutant detection device. "I will try to expand my conciousness and scan for any incoming alien presences in the immediate area. That will at least allow us to have some prior warning before their arrival. It will also give us an opportunity to learn their intentions and their capabilities before hand." "You must admit, Professor" said the Beast "that this is quite the longshot". "Not to mention dangerous", added Forge, the X-Men's resident Cheyenne shaman and mutant techno-visionary. "What if these Imperials don't take kindly to telepathic intrusions and decide to show you their displeasure by charbroiling your mind?" "I doubt that will happen my friend. From what Lilandra has told me, it seems that the Imperials are not superpowered in any way. It was rumored they had a few...gifted...individuals amongst their ranks. But if there are any present in that fleet, we must found out about them. It's a risk I'm willing to take." "Not on your own, you won't", said Jean Grey as she entered the room. "You're going to need help doing this Charles. The Magneto ordeal and the Shadow King business before that have been quite stressful for you." "Nevertheless Jean, it's something that needs to be done and I am the person most suited for the job. It worked before with the Z'nox menace and later on with our first encounter with Lilandra and the Shi'ar." "Maybe Charles, but I seem to remember that both times the rapport almost got you killed. You're not up to this yet." "I concur with the beautiful redhead, Professor", added Beast, catching a glimpse of Jean's chagrined blush. "You also have not slept in the past 48 hours and as your doctor, I cannot allow in good conscience for you to partake in such a dangerous task without the proper rest and restored physical strenght your body needs for the job." Xavier sighed and rubbed his eyes. Henry was right, of course. He was exhausted. He had not rested for a single minute ever since he got Lilandra's warning, and it had begun to take its toll. Jean was right too. The recent debacles the X-Men had gone through in the past few months had almost consumed him. He wondered if he indeed had the strenght to carry out the task that he so confidently proposed just moments ago. Perhaps a few hours' rest wouldn't be so bad after all. "Thank you Henry. You are right of course. Despite my talents, I am only human and have sorely neglected some basic needs. I think I will retire for the night. Forge,please notify me on any new developments". With that, the Professor turned his hover-chair around and stepped out of the War Room. "The man's got the right idea alright", said Forge. "You guys should do the same. I'll keep watch here till 0600 hours. I'll keep everyone posted if anything's up". The three of them began to walk out of the Cerebro chamber, but Jean slowed down and turned around, staring back at the device. She felt a strange, faint compulsion stir in her soul. Something that needed to be done. Now. As a telepath of the highest order, she was occasionally prone to flashes of precognition, and she knew how vital they often proved to be. Maybe the Professor was not in any condition to try the scan at the moment. But there was no reason why she couldn’t try now. With that, she settled down on the chair, put on the helmet, engaged the device and let her conciousness expand out into the astral plane. -------------------------------------------- The mottled sky of hyperspace gave way to starlines, and these in turn receded to real space, as Chewbacca disengaged the hyperdive, just minutes after escaping their pursuit. There was nothing but tranquil space around them; the system’s small yellow star brightly illuminating the cockpit and a small blue-white world with a solitary moon hanging in the void. “Well, we made it”, said Han Solo, looking out the viwport and then down at the navicomputer. “There’s our destination. Not much to look like really. Kinda resembles Alderaan. Or Naboo even. In their heyday.” Han stiffened in his seat, suppresing a sigh at the memory of both lost worlds. Leia would’ve loved this place, he said to himself. Chewbacca growled softly in agreement and Luke nodded softly. “Yeah, I know”, said the younger man, as if reading his thoughts. Which of course, thought Solo, he probably did. “Well, now we’ve got to figure out where to put her down for repairs and where to get the parts we need. And both tasks seem to be downright impossible. We’re probably gonna attract a lot of unwanted attention and scare some folks silly if we try landing the old girl near a populated area. And of course, these people are still in the technological Stone Age. I don’t know what we’ll be able to scrounge in the order of suitable parts or components.” “Things d -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Amidala22 Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 10/1/99 3:19pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	c'mon!!!! please continue!!!! this is sssooo good!! -----signature----- 'Shots in the Dark' http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=8774613 "Fear is no one's Ally">Sari-'Angel's Plight' http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=8234696 "Rebel High" http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=7087285 Please Read!!
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 10/1/99 9:06pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Chapter 9 Jean Grey/Luke Skywalker/X-man/Jedi Knight/Outlaw/Rebel/Dreamer/Warrior/Earth/ Tatooine/Mutant/Force/Alert/Danger/Imperial Pursuit/Adrift/Help! Luke Skywalker suddenly gasped, falling back on his seat, perplexed and overwhelmed. The surprise and intensity of that brief rapport literally took his breath away. Suns of Tatooine, she's so powerful...so beautiful...an angel... "Luke! Hey, you okay pal?" asked Han with a frown on his face, more than a little alarmed at his friend's sudden outburst. "You're getting spacey here son." "Yeah...yes, Han. I'm alright..". He rubbed his forehead and the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes, trying to settle down the spinning universe around him. After a few seconds he opened them again and stared out at...Earth. Yes, that was the name of this world. He nodded softly at no one in particular. "Not from where I'm sitting kid. What's going on? You found a Jedi down there or something." "A Jedi? No...I don't think so. SomeONE, yes. And I think, someone that can help us. We should head down there." Chewbacca grumbled questioningly at Han, obviously not quite enthused at the idea of landing down there just yet. A feeling the Falcon's captain shared as well. But he also understood that they couldn't stay out here. Not with those Imperials out there waiting to finish the job they started near that gas giant. "I guess that's great Luke. So what do we do now? Luke stared out, softly nodding again. "Yes, I understand...Jean." He then looked at Han. "She'll guide us down somewhere safe." "She huh?" He smiled lopsidedly. "You must've made some impression. And they call ME dangerous..." Luke blushed and smiled sheepishly. "Actually, it's more like I stumbled upon her by surprise. She was scanning out just as I was scanning in..." Chewbacca started urf-urf-urfing softly and Han chuckled in return. "Yup, a heck of an impression alright." Luke rolled his eyes, chagrined. "Just head down to that northern continent and follow its eastern seaboard to the north. She'll tell us where to land." Jean Grey got up from her chair, calmly, and proceeded down to the War Room's comm station. Forge was still sitting there on monitor duty, some of the displays showing views from nearby satellites, pointing spaceward. Another showed constantly updated shots by the Hubble space telescope as it stared out into the cosmos. Jean herself stared intensely at one of the displays, touching the zoom function on the screen to amplify the image of the incoming spacecraft. Forge turned to glimpse what had caught Jean's attention and stared at the screen slackjawed. "What the--? What's that??" "Friends...I think. At least they don't appear to be hostile. Their ship is damaged and they need to land for repairs. I'm guiding them down here." "'Here'? Ms. Grey, I don't think that's such a good idea." "We'll see, Forge." Jean then clicked a button in the comm panel. "Scott?" "Yes, Jean? What's up?" "Um...assemble the team. We're about to receive visitors." There was a long pause before Scott finally replied. "'Visitors'? The ones we've been expecting?" "Not exactly hun. But they know them and are fleeing them. And right now, they need our help." The Millenium Falcon skimmed across the Atlantic Ocean, stealth screens fully engaged, flying low enough to skim the waves of the starlit ocean. It was just as well, thought Han Solo, that they decided to touch down at night. Doing so during the day would attract the wrong kind of attention. Though he was certain that the Falcon could withstand anything the local authorities could throw at him, he also didn't want to massacre folks that were just doing their job. And he had to admit, throwback world or not, the dark carpet of the ocean below him and the encroaching lights of civilization made for a spectacular sight. It reminded him of Corellia. And while the metropolis they were quickly approaching -- New York, if he remembered correctly -- might not stand up to a single square mile of Coruscant's planetwide city, it was impressive on its own might and homely enough to remind him of Coronet City. The Falcon climbed higher, passing over the city's highest buildings without attracting much attention...save perhaps that of a lone figure perched against a skycraper's wall. He pulled out a camera and took a few pictures, hoping he'd be able to sell them at the Bugle tomorrow. He shot a spray of webbing to a nearby ledge and continued patrolling his city. Professor X rolled into the War room, glancing at the X-Men gathered there. Many of them, as himself, still in their bedclothes. He watched Cyclops turn to face him and saw his student straighten form his slouch. Charles Xavier couldn't supress a smile. Someday, he promised himself, he'd have to remind Scott again that this wasn't the military. He was too dedicated at times. "Cyclops, report." "Yes Professor. Jean made contact with an alien ship some 15 minutes ago. From what they told her, they barely escaped an Imperial ambush just outside of Jupiter's orbit." Scott Summers paused briefly, letting his mentor understand the implications of those news. My God, said the Professor to himself. They're just a stone throw away from Earth. Cyclops continued. "Apparently they suffered some damage. Serious enough that they couldn't escape the system without making some repairs." Cyclops then turned to face Jean. "She's guiding them in even as we speak" Xavier turned to face Jean, quickly opening the rapport long ago established with her, his first student. His first X-man. He quickly experienced the encounter out on the void, what was learned there, and her impressions on the young man she had spoken with. "And you think this Luke Skywalker is trustworthy?" he asked her. "I think so Charles. I sensed no deception from him. He is powerful; he seems to have gone through much, but I also 'read' him to be highly idealistic, with a certain naivette and innocence to him. He reminded me of our former teammate Longshot." "Let us hope then", Storm cut in, "that this stranger is just as lucky as him. I have a feeling we are going to need a lot of that good fortune." Jean looked up, eyes tightening just a bit. "They're close now." "Warren, Rogue," said Cyclops."Why don't you go out there and scort them into the hangar. We'll meet you there in a few minutes" "On our way boss", replied Archangel as he and the young southern belle known only as Rogue headed out of the room. "Well my children," said the Professor then. "Let's get ready to properly meet our guests." As the Falcon skimmed the tree tops of Westchester County, Han had to admit that things were going rather well; so far there hadn't been surprises or anything out of the ordinary. Save perhaps for Luke's impassive concentration as he manipulated the ship's controls, guiding the ship to their appointed destination. Chewbacca mewed softly and Han ruffled the big guy's hair. He knew how his Wookiee blood-brother felt. He didn't like being a passanger in his own ship either, but in this case he hadn't had much choice. It would've been somewhat ackward trying to fly over unknown territory with Luke giving him directions on the side. With the Jedi Knight at the helm they'd reach their destination faster. Han stared out of the viewport, turned to check back on Luke and quickly did a double take. Out there in the distance he saw two...people. Floating in the air. So much, he thought, about 'nothing out of the ordinary'. Rogue put a hand over her eyes, squinting bit. "Yeah, that's them alright. How' bout we guide them in, sugah?" "Sure", said Archangel. "I'll fly point. You stick close to them. They try anything funny, take 'em down hard." "You got it Angel-baby". And with that, they were off. Han blinked. They didn't just float, they flew unde -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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Darth_Invidious Registered: Jun '99	Date Posted: 10/1/99 9:13pm Subject: Re: X-Men/Star Wars: The X-Over
	Whew, I'm winded. That last chapter took about three hours to write itself. Anyone want to take over for now? I need a drink -----signature----- "Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici (By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe)" -- V XBL GT - GhostRider1172
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