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The forum will be undergoing maintenance as things progress forward. SMF2 is a little buggy on our forum, and I will be working to iron out some of those bugs, and to restore the forum to a similar and familiar home for us to the one that we used to have.
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Topic Summary
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: March 17, 2013, 05:47:21 am »
Stray Sheep Cpt 8
Khalee Aristide “I do believe it’s finished Commander Aristide.” “What exactly is ‘it’?” This egghead is so god dammed fired if this is a waste of my time. “It just looks like a big pink blob.” “Well, we call it Agent Glutton. Glutton is what’s going to find and kill that instigator Black Sheep.” “How did you even make this thing?” “My team and I took some recently deceased cadavers and treated them with a special solution of which I won’t bore you with the details to make the flesh malleable. You see if it doesn’t have a definite form, then it is more resistant to damage. Glutton’s organs can dissolve and move like the rest of his body. Anyways, after treating him with the solution we implanted some goat brains for rudimentary functions.” This thing is a monstrosity: a crime against nature. “How did you and your team even get clearance for this? I’m no scientist, but your experiments here must be violating dozens of ethical guidelines.” “Over the years I’ve found out that you can justify a lot of experiments by yelling out ‘For Science!’” “Wow, uh, anyways, how exactly will it find and kill the Black Sheep?” This insane bastard better know what my finger drumming means. “Y-you see, Glutton wraps around his prey and when any part of him touches bare skin, he floods the prey’s nervous system with endorphins, making the victim feel good and complacent. Glutton then engulfs his victim and absorbs it; kind of like an ameba.” “That’s very interesting but, how is it supposed to find Animus with no eyes, ears, or other visible sensory organs?” Can’t he just tell me the important part? I suppose I can’t really blame him; he is just a Sheep after all.
“Oh, we order Glutton by sticking an electrode in him. The electrode is connected to a microphone so, that when you speak into the microphone, your words are converted into electrical impulses, which stimulate Gluttons internal organs. Glutton finds his way around by sense of smell and vibrations. He also seems to grow more intelligent as he consumes. We test him by recording his speed on solving a Rubik’s cube. I personally believe that Glutton has been networking the brains of the animals we’ve been feeding him. With every small mammal he consumes, his time on the cube gets faster by a second or two.” Finally, we’re getting somewhere. “What’s his current record?” “Around ten minutes.” Now I need to test something. “Doctor Pressly, would you kindly release one of the test seals? I would like to see Glutton for my self.” “Of course Commander Aristide! But, we don’t use seals; we use goats. Just remember to end every command with ‘and return to your cage.’” “Why goats?” I thought seals would be the first choice, overpopulation and all.
“Tradition mostly. There was this religion called Chupacabraism a few hundred years ago. Chupacabraism worshipped the mystical Chupacabra. Agents of the Chupacabra are goats, supposedly, and they take in all of the sins of humanity. Then the Chupacabra is supposed to eat the sin filled goats therefore freeing humanity from its sins. The whole thing is quite laughable really, but a lot of scientists back then bought into it and they inflicted as many sins on the goats as they could. Like I said tradition. Though, it is starting to see a resurgence–” “Very fascinating. Doctor Pressly. How many other scientists on your team know what you do about Agent Glutton?” “Five Commander. I make six.” So I see. The electrode goes in like this. Open the cage. “Agent Glutton, eat Doctor Pressly here, then return to your cage.” “W-why–oh, that feels quite nice and warm.” Wow, look at Glutton go. Completely engulfed in fifty-six seconds from balding head to penny loafers and right back to his cage. “Now Agent Glutton, please solve the cube as fast as you can and then return to your cage." Doctor Pressly should have been more direct.
“Um Commander Aristide, what in the hell was that? You just murdered him!” “Isn’t it obvious? I’m commandeering this facility, its staff, and all of its resources to stop a nasty bout of domestic terrorism. You know, Black Sheep and he can't possibly be working alone." If those terrorists want to dress up like monsters, I’ll show them a monster.
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: March 17, 2013, 05:33:56 am »
Stray Sheep Cpt 7
Lucian Belmont “Police are on their way to the false alarms. XYZ’s power is down and the fog machines are up. The operation has begun. Remember people the first priority is to lock down the first floor. After anyone and everyone on the ground floor is pacified, Ramirez and Udina will blockade the stairs to make sure no one escapes. Belmont, Michaels, and Davis will go to the eighth floor to erase the footage on the security cameras when the power is restored. Animus and everyone else will head up to the fifteenth floor to the broadcasting studio. The power will be restored when Animus confirms his team is in the studio, and then he will broadcast our message. The power will then be shut back off as we make our escape. Remember I won’t be able to see anyone until the power is back on. Pacify anyone in your way, but don’t kill. Keep chatter to a minimum it’ll add to the fear effect. Adair out.” Animus probably gave her a script. She is good at telling people what to do though.
A security guard. Turn on glove, then thrust left palm into his gut, shut glove off, and restrain him with cable ties around his wrists and ankles. Kind of fat. Couldn’t even get his shock baton out.
There’s an old looking janitor trying to find his way out of the bathroom. I think his hair is grey, but it’s hard to tell in the dark. Gut thrust and cable ties. Rinse, wash, and repeat.
First floor is secure. That’s right, Ramirez and Udina are guarding the stairs behind us to make sure no one escapes. Davis and Michaels are with me to secure the security room.
“Belmont, Davis, Michaels. There are twelve offices on the eighth floor and three security guards. Search the offices one by one and pacify anyone you see. Animus could capture the broadcast room at any moment. You won’t have the element of surprise for very long. The police are starting to figure out the bank alarms are fake. We’ve got about thirty minutes before they investigate why the biggest news station in Querra went to static at 6:30. Adair out.” Four rooms each. A dark skinned guy in a suit. Thrust and cable ties. Like clockwork. Four each. Just thrust and cable ties. Men and women collecting a paycheck in these small dark offices. We’ve probably traumatized them.
****! The door to security has a key card lock.
“Hey. The door to security is locked with a key card.” “No, just open the door. These locks only work if there is power. It’s the same set up Ramirez has at the apartments.” Davis is apparently more observant than I give her credit for. Whoa! Those guards sure do come out swinging. They probably heard us taking care of the office works. That one almost got me in the face.
“Black Sheep? Bullshit! This ain’t some fairy tale!" These guys kind of suck. Just swinging their shock batons like their swatting at flies. Got him. I probably shouldn’t have smacked him in the face though, but Michaels and Davis are tying up their guards now and we really don’t have time to waste on being gentle. I wish the lighting was better so I could see the look on my guard’s face.
“Hey, let us go!” Man, he's still noisy even after getting shocked. Not like they can do anything right now.
Oh, the lights are on. Animus must’ve reached the broadcast room. Ha, my guard is purple-faced.
Okay, footage erased and recording stopped. There’s the message.
“Citizens of Querra. I am the Black Sheep. I am the harbinger of equality. The vanguard of change. The animus of an oppressed people. People of Querra, if you are tired of the Sheep-Shepherd system stand up and fight alongside me. If you are tired of being told that you aren’t good enough because you have the integrity and restraint to refuse to harm the defenseless, then stand up and fight alongside me. I have by removing those complacent and unwilling to fight oppression already began to help make Querra a better place. However, with all of my efforts those most grievous offenders are outside of my reach. I will require assistance in bringing those politicians to justice. I tried to destroy an indoctrination center in the flames of cleansing justice, but that too is out of my reach. Citizens of Querra, lend me your ears. Lend me your hands. Take to the streets. Oust the oppressors; destroy those so-called schools to keep them from indoctrinating our youth. You good people have been wronged for generations on end. Assist me in making things right.” “Go! Go! The police are on the way! Adair out.” Well it’s time to get outta here.
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: March 06, 2013, 04:45:35 pm »
Stray Sheep Cpt 6
Francis Mutton
“Francis Mutton. Where were you on the night of June fourteenth at 6:00 P.M.?”
I can’t tell him anything. There’s no proof and he probably doesn’t think I did it. Just standard procedure. “I–I was backstage at my s–s–school getting ready to go onstage at that t–time.”
“You were the only student involved with that situation we couldn’t find afterwards. Where were you?”
“I–I was asked to sp–sp–speak thre Shepherd’s Praise and I got so nervous I fainted. I was t–to embarrassed to stay s–s–so I went home.”
“You left the play even though you were the sheep? That’s not very nice, the sheep is very important.”
“I know officer. I’m not proud of what I did.”
“About what time was this?"
“It was about 6:15.”
“Can anyone confirm this?”
“N–n–n–no officer. My parents were working that night. I got home a few hours before them.”
“I see. Boy, I’m going to ask you a question and I want you to answer truthfully. Did you start that fire?”
“N–n–no officer! It w–wasn’t m–me.” Crap, this isn't good.
“Are you sure you ar—“
What the– did the tv change channels? “Citizens of Querra. I am the Black Sheep.” What in the hell is this?
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: February 27, 2013, 06:26:04 pm »
Stray Sheep Cpt 5 Marilyn Adair “You know Lucian, it seems as though you have a good amount of responsibility around here for someone so young. You’re about twenty, right? Also, as I recall, you were always a cut up in my class.” “Animus gives more responsibility to those who can handle it. I designed our stun gloves and regularly preform field operations when Animus needs it. Besides I only screwed around so much because your class was so boring.” Please. “Boring huh? You went out of your way to abduct me because I’m boring?” “You misunderstand. Your CLASS was boring, but you personally, I find very interesting and inspiring. Ms. Adair, the way you talked about equality is why I’m here.” Glad I could get through to someone. “Although, the reason I’m personally showing you around is because we already know each other." I suppose it makes sense that Lucian is giving me the tour seeing as we are acquainted already. “So, the entire organization lives in this apartment complex?” This place could use more trees, it's somewhat drab.
“Yeah, Ramirez was generous enough to let us stay in them. Not for free though, Animus picks up the bill for room, board, and all other expenses.” How could someone have that much money and be so completely anonymous? No one knows his real name and I don’t recognize his face...
“Which apartment was it again?” “ I believe its apartment 321.” “Right. Why is it necessary that I sleep here?” “Well, part of that is convenience. You’ll be easier to reach if you stay here. The other reason is security. If there are any traitors among us, it would be easier to catch them sending information to the government to the government or Sheepdogs; not that you would, but better to be careful. We’d all be executed for high treason if word of what we’re doing gets out. Here we are apartment 321. Before we move on, do you have any questions?” “Two actually. Can I bring anything from my house and what would you guys do if I refused to live on the premises?” “You can bring your personal hygiene supplies, two weeks worth of clothes, and some personal items like pictures or something. A one-size fit all sheep costume is in your apartment complete with a stun glove. As for refusing to comply, we would put you in a warehouse with everyone else we kidnapped. You know way too much about what we’re doing to let you go free." He’s smiling, but I can tell that isn’t a joke. Speaking of security problems… “What about the people that aren’t in our little group? “The neighbors? There aren’t any. When Ramirez agreed to let Animus make these apartments our base of operations we got rid of the other tenants.” “You didn’t kidnap them all, did you?” “Of course not! We aren’t stupid. That would be over forty people including children; way too many people to go missing all at once from the same small area. We filled some of their apartments with opossums, bought some others out of their leases, and we recently used the Black Sheep legends to scare the rest of them away.” “That’s very impressive.” I suppose I should expect nothing less from a group of people plotting the over throw of the government. “Now for a quick tutorial on how to use the stun glove. Come on, lets go to the cellar.” * * * Not very much light down here huh? “Here, put this glove on.” So, they keep some of their equipment in the cellars. Wow, the stun glove is really soft. Like high quality wool. A little bulky with the battery pack though. “One-size fits all. You might even say it fits like a glove.” That’s nice, making a joke as he’s about to show me how to use a weapon. "I’m not sure if that joke was genuinely funny or if I’m only smiling because it was the most exceedingly corny thing I’ve ever heard.” How cute, Lucian kind of looks like a little kid when he blushes. “Anyways. Do you see the button on the back of the glove? Press it. To shut it off press the button again. When the glove is on do not touch the palm, it will shock you.” “So, you said you designed these gloves?” “Yeah, I reverse engineered the technology from the shock batons the Sheepdogs use and put it in glove form. Now prepare yourself.” “Prepare for wha–“ You son of a ****! “That’s what it feels like to get hit in the gut and have every muscle in your body contract all at once.” “You son of a ****!” “Hey, hey, I’m really sorry, but you need to know what that feels like. We’re doing something big tonight and if we run into trouble you could find yourself up against a Sheepdog and his shock baton. Not that it’s likely you’ll run into anything with the position you’re taking, but still." “What’s the mission and my part in it?” “Animus is going to fill in everyone who’s coming, but for the moment thrust your palm into my gut as hard as you can.” “Can do.” That was actually very satisfying. “I enjoyed that more than I thought I would.” “Good for you.” The little punk shouldn’t have shocked me like that. My pocket is vibrating. A text. Meeting in building A. Probably the mission. “Come on. Building A is the big one.” * * * “Tonight, we shall descend upon the XYZ news station. We will be sending a very important message to the people of Querra.” So, we’ll be going after the Omega line, the override channel for government announcements. Yeah, this is definitely high treason. “Weir, Poolhaus, and Shackleford are going to remotely set off twenty different silent alarms in banks to distract the police. Orion, you will kill the power on the block and restore power once we get to the broadcast room. Adair will run mission control from one of the vans; she’ll be monitoring the police radio and guiding us to our destinations within the buildings with blue prints. Washington will set up the smoke machines and guard Adair. The rest of us will enter the station, subdue the workers and commandeer the broadcast. Large and imposing, with a deep booming voice, and knows exactly what he’s doing. I can see why he’s the leader. Though I wonder why he’s so devoted to this cause, I’d figure someone with the means to fund something like this would be content with the status quo. “Remember, we are the vanguards if change! We will bring about the future! The politicians would call us traitors, stray sheep, but it is them who have strayed from the path of the righteous protectors their namesake implies. They see Sheep and Sheepdogs as noting more than animals, existing only to serve them. So, I’ll say it again. We are the vanguards of change!” We may dress up like sheep, but I can see that we’re wolves in sheepskin, and we’re going for the jugular.
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: February 24, 2013, 06:39:31 pm »
Stray Sheep Cpt 4 Francis Mutton “Morning Francis.” “How’d you sleep sweetie?” “Good morning Mom, Dad. I had another nightmare.” God my eyes are sore I wish I could just get some sleep, there’s always so much smoke now. At least the pancakes smell good. “I know the thought of your friends getting hurt in the fire could be upsetting and all, but it’s been over a week, how could you be having such vivid nightmares for this long when no one even got hurt? You weren’t even there; you went home after you fainted right?” “Y-yeah.” Lucky they had to work that afternoon. “Knock it off Harold. Francis is just sensitive, it’s not that unusual.” “Sorry if I made ya feel bad. I know you’ve been having a bit of a rough time lately and I’m just a little worried about you, you know.” “That’s okay Dad. The pancakes are really good Mom. I’m gonna go to my room for a little bit if that’s okay with you guys.” “Fine, but you really should get some fresh air though, maybe hang out with Maddie today, she’s been over every day since the fire asking for you. The least you could do is tell the poor girl that you’re not feeling well yourself.” Crap, I’m starting to tear up, I gotta stop thinking about that.
I could’ve gotten Maddie killed. I could’ve gotten a lot of people killed. No, no, no, nononononon stop thinking about it dammit. I don’t like Richard or George, but I wasn’t trying to hurt them. Oh god I came so close to being a murderer. Stop thinking. I wish I could just stop thinking about it. I’m not a terrible person, nobody got hurt. I hate this feeling. This hollow feeling in the pit of my stomach really sucks. Wait, was that the doorbell? “Francis, Maddie is at the door. I’m not going to send her away again. Pushing you friends away is never a good idea. Sometimes, just talking with a good friend can make ya feel better; even if it’s only for a little bit.” “O–okay. Send her up.” Gotta keep it together. “Francis! It’s so good to see you again.” Man, she really has a strong grip. “It’s good to see you too Maddie, but you’re crushing my ribs.” “Hey, it isn’t my fault you’re freakishly small.” “Maybe I’m perfect size and everyone else is freakishly large?” “That would almost work, but you’re the only teenager I know who is still too short to ride rollercoasters.” “Touché.” I’ve missed hanging out with her. “So, how’ve you been lately?” “I’ve been alright.” “W–wait don’t sit on the bed!” “Why not?” Aw man. She could probably hear and feel the bed liner. “Is there a plastic sheet on your bed? I thought you got rid of that when you were like eleven?" “I–I–I haven’t been s–sleeping well lately.” She probably thinks I’m such a loser. “It’s okay Francis, I won’t tell anyone. I understand that it’s probably just stress over what happened at the play. The fire was a little scary, but thankfully no one got hurt, and we never have to go back there again, which is always a plus. Eh, Francis, I actually wanted to ask you about that night. You disappeared right before the fire started, the police said you were the only person who was unaccounted for, and you’ve been hiding in your house for over a week. Was it you?” Oh my god. No, no, not here. Not in front of her. I need to sit down. “Did you start the fire?” “W–w–well, I–I, d–I’m so sorry!” Dammit, now I’m crying in front of her too. Stop dammit! Stop. “I d–d–did st–st–st–start the f–fire, but it w–was an accident! I swear! After I fainted, I wanted t–t–to get back at Richard, s–s-so I c–climbed onto the c–catwalk to pour s–some p–p–p–paint on him. I sl–slipped with the paint can because it w–was too heavy and I ended up breaking the light! I’m so sorry I was just trying to get back at them; I wasn’t trying to hurt anyone. I c–could’ve hurt a lot of people, I could’ve hurt you. I’m so sorry!” This is the worst day of my life. Maddie is either gonna hate me or think I’m a loser. She might even turn me into the police. Huh, she’s hugging me again.” It’s okay Francis. I won’t tell anyone about this either; I know you would never try to hurt anyone one, let alone me. Besides, you didn’t hurt anybody and really, most people are happy to see part of that school go up in flames anyways. I’m not going to rat you out, not over something like this.” “T–thanks Maddie.” She is my best friend and she will always be my friend. She is an amazing person. “What are friends for? Ya know. Anyways, I think you could use a distraction. Lets go to the arcade or see a movie or something. You should probably wash your face; you’re a bit of a mess right now.” “I was gonna do that. I’ll meet you outside.” Feels good to finally let that all out. Bawling like that was really embarrassing, but I feel better.* * * “Man that movie sucked, hahaha. I mean why would werewolves turn rainbow furred during the day instead of turning into humans?” Dusk was so terrible it was funny. “I know and was the film’s budget so low that none of the main characters could wear a shirt.” “Thanks for brining me out here Maddie. I really needed some time to just relax and stop thinking for a bit.” “No problem Francis. I had a good time too.” “You know, even before the fire I was too caught up in my own issues, I forgot to properly congratulate you on making Shepherd. So kudos. You really deserve it.” “Aw, thanks. My parents are throwing me a big fancy banquet to celebrate it. You and your parents are invited. The rsvp is coming in the mail.” “Cool.” What's that homeless guy doing? "Worship the mighty Sin-Eater, the Chupacabra and his goat agents. Convert to Chupacabranism today." "Do you know what that guy is talking about Francis?" "Not a clue." The guy sounds like a whack-job “So are you going to talk to a counselor or your parents about what happened?” “I don’t think so. A counselor might turn me into the police and my parents would be really disappointed in me and I don’t know if I could handle that. Besides, talking to you helped enough.” I hope so at least. “If you say so.” “Hey, what time is it? My phone is dead?” “Hold on, I need to turn my on my phone. It’s 4:37 and I have a missed call and message on my phone.” I wonder who called her. “Oh my god. Kevin got beat up. My parents took him to the emergency room. The call wasn’t that long ago they’re probably still there. I’m sorry I should go.” “It’s okay, I just hope your brother is okay. I need to get home anyways.” Who in the hell would beat up Kevin? He’s a cool little kid. “See you later.” “Bye.” It’ll be dark soon. I should probably go through the woods. I can reach the suburbs quicker that way. Taking the bus or walking around the woods would take a lot longer. I’ll just have to move quickly. Trees, trees everywhere, they could fall, and to nobody they’d share. Heh, I should write that one d— bloody hell! What just hit me in the face? “You tried to kill us! You psycho arsonist!” That’s what hit me: George’s mace-like fist. “It w–wasn’t me. Gah–“ That was my stomach. “Shut up! You were the only person who wasn’t accounted for after the fire and you hate us. So, were you jealous? Was it some sort of revenge? Well it didn’t work! George, hit him in the face again.” Crap, this is the first time I’ve heard Richard this mad. “Well, at least m–my two black eyes will match.” I’m on the ground again.
“Shut up! You tried to burn us alive and you’re making jokes! You’re an animal! Tried to kill us! All of you Sheep are animals! Just jealous of us Shepherds and Sheepdogs!” “Rich, shut up.” “Did you just tell me to shut up George?” “Yeah. Take back what you said about Sheep.” “Why?” “You know my mom is a Sheep. So take it back!” Roaring like a lion. I’ve never heard him argue with Richard before. “No, what I said is true and I stand by that. We are better than them.” “Take it back!” “No.” I hope this works. “Hey George. Richard think’s he’s better than you too. Why do you think he hasn’t laid a hand on me this whole time? You never throw witty insults at me. Richard has just been giving you orders this whole time. He thinks he’s better than you. He thinks Shepherds are better than Sheepdogs.” “Make him shut up George.” “Answer the question. Do you think Shepherds are better than Sheepdogs? That you’re better than me?” “Yes. Certain people are meant for certain stations in life. It’s inevitable that some people are going to be superior to others. I’m of the caste meant to lead and you’r—“ Holy crap. I always thought George was the line for Richard’s douchiness. I never thought I’d see George turn on him. “Get the hell out of here Richard! Or I’ll kick your ass like I did Francis.” “That’s just not cool George. Not cool.” "Rich, get the hell out of here!" Oh crap George is walking over here. “Did you start that fire?” “No.” “Well then, listen up. Richard was beating you up, when I happened along and pulled him off of you. This is what you’re going to tell the hospital and the police. I’ll back your story up. If you don’t, those black eyes will be the least of your worries. Come on, let’s get you to the hospital.” God my ribs are sore.* * * “Just two black eyes and some bruised ribs. You’re lucky that boy found you when he did. Officer Hanlon is going to take your statement and your parents are on their way.” Man this hospital is noisy. Geez this cop is gigantic. “Anal Beads there son, now who did this to you, what does he look like, and where did it happen?” “T–t–this guy I know, Richard Hawkins attacked me just outside of the woods near the movie theatre. He’s about 5’6, white, blond hair, blue eyes.” “Yeah, that’s who did it and what happened. I clocked that jerk real good before he ran off.” Least George is holding up his end of the deal. “Good work George. Could you please leave the room so I can ask Francis here about a private matter?” What does he want with me?
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: February 08, 2013, 07:44:51 pm »
Stray Sheep Chapter 3–Lucian Belmont How long Ms. Adair is going to be out? I really hope she wakes up soon, she’s probably gonna be out until morning. I suppose it’s my fault for suggesting that we go get her and someone does have to be here when she gets up to keep her from screaming. She was one of the few really great teachers. She made everyone both feel special and realize that everyone has to put in hard work to be successful. Ms. Adair taught us all to everyone with the same amount of respect no matter if we became Sheep, Shepherds, or Sheepdogs, and to make sure we always question what were told, even if it’s something she told us. I know I can talk her into this.
* * * Finally she stirs, and it only took ten and a half hours. “Do not scream. No one will be able to hear you.” “Why can’t I see? Where am I? Why did you kidnap me?” Not exactly as quite as I’d like, but she’s at the very least not screaming.
“In order; you’re blind folded, I can’t tell you where we are right this second, and I kidnapped you because I think you might help us.” “Why in the hell would I help my kidnapper?” “You’re not afraid I’m going to hurt you or something?” “If you were going to kill me, you would kill me, and there would be nothing I could do about that, but you want my help and killing me won’t get you my help, so I can only conclude that you aren’t going hurt me.” Good, she’s as sharp as she was when she was when I was in school. “You make an excellent point Ms. Adair, allow me to explain. Well, first off I should apologize for zapping you, feeding you a sleeping pill, and kidnapping you; I really do feel bad about all of that. What we want is equality, for everyone to be treated with the same amount of fairness. Government shouldn’t be restricted to one social class. That’s how the Shepherds–no the politicians control everything. I know you’re a good person and a Shepherd and that you’re not the only one.” “ Tell me. Just how will kidnapping me help bring equality?” “We haven’t just kidnapped you. We’ve nabbed about thirty people over the last month. As for you specifically, I remember that you have a certain talent to organize people, and you genuinely believe in equality. Also robbed some stores, torched some cars, you know that sort of thing. Don’t worry we haven’t hurt anyone.” “That’s not possible; mass disappearances and a general crime spree, don’t just go unnoticed. It would have been all over the news!” “Yeah, don’t you just love government cover-ups? Trying to keep people calm, but people talk and they get scared.” “I still don’t see how any of that is going to change anything. Also, why were you wearing a black sheep costume while you were abducting me?” So she remembers that. “Well, to be honest, the sheep thing is a little new. We’re trying to capitalize off of the fear of that school fire. I’m sure you’ve heard about how a black sheep was seen fleeing the scene. As for the crimes–.” “Fear.” Man! I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that deep ass voice of his. “We shall use fear to rile up the populace until the point they become so disgruntled with the way things are they revolt. In this revolt, they will destabilize the government so we can be rid of the Sheep–Shepherd system. We would then step in and ensure that a proper system of government is installed, one that allows the people to keep their sovereignty, and not have to be told that someone else is better than them just because they display sociopathic tendencies. It is for this reason, this dream, that I ask you Miss Marilyn Adair, will you assist us?” My god. He always knows just what to say and when to say it. “I–I think I will join you. Now please untie and get this blindfold off of me. I’m hungry, need to use the restroom, and need to think. Oh, I’m at a disadvantage with you two. You know about me, but I don’t know who you guys are.” “My name is Lucian Belmont. I was a student of yours about six years ago.” She has such soft hands. “I remember you. You were going to become an electrical engineer and used to have a lot of freckles.” “Don’t have freckles anymore, but I did become an electrical engineer. I made our stun gloves.” “And your name is?” Man he makes her look tiny. Not that Ms. Adair is small, but that just goes to show how physically imposing Animus is. “You may call me Animus. Animus means spirit, courage, passion, and wrath. All qualities that people in our little group have, things we see in you. Not enough people have animus, which is why they are so easily lulled into a robotic, trance like state by would-be-tyrants, a trance that we shall rouse them from. Now come we’ll take you to meet the others.” “Wow.” Yeah she’s in.
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: January 25, 2013, 06:57:52 pm »
Stray Sheep: Marilyn Adair Chapter 2 A true Shepherd guides his or her flock and should respect and protect them, not lord a higher social status over them. Being able to cut in lines at the movies or grocery stores is one thing, but why should Shepherds have priority on loans or getting their kids in good schools when the kids of Sheep have the same chance to become Shepherds as the kids of Shepherds. Sheepdogs are just as bad; the brutes think they can rough up anyone who doesn’t agree with them, or even just looks at them the wrong way and trump up a bullshit explanation. I suppose that’s why I come to House’s House of Glass every payday.
The shop has a quaint cozy feeling to it filled with assorted glass and ceramic works that he made himself or acquired through various means. Harry’s shop is small but brightly colored pieces of art sit on shelves and tables all over the place. “Good day to you Miss Adair.” Ah, Harry House, always has the same easy grin on his face. “I keep telling you to call me Marilyn.” He’s so uptight sometimes. “I’m sorry Miss Adair, but I know I’ve told you that I was raised to treat Shepherds with the respect they deserve.” “I’m only a teacher Harry.” “Ah, but being a teacher is very admirable, shaping the minds of the youth and all. So the usual order then?” “Yes.” “Two glass sheep and a glass wolf. So are ya ever going to tell me why you collect these?” “Well, you’re craftsmanship is impeccable and the attention to detail on these animals is what really pulled me into them. I also suppose one could call my collection a bit of an inside joke.” My collection really is my own private joke. I have a glass shepherd, a few dogs, and a herd of sheep in the middle of them with wolves scattered throughout the crowd. I know that I as a single person can’t do anything to change the Sheep-Shepherd system but, if I can teach enough kids to be kind, open minded, and to think for themselves maybe I can create enough wolves in a crowd of Sheep and change this country and its people for the better. "Are you sure you don't want a Chupacabra?" "What is a Chupacabra?" I know I've heard of that phrase somewhere, but I just can put my finger on it. "I'm not particularly sure, but I keep getting requests for them lately. I probably could make a good bit of money if I could find out more about them. "Why'd you ask me about them, if you didn't know what a Chupacabra was yourself?" "I asked you in an attempt to find out more." "Ah, well, I should be going now." “Thank you for the business Miss and have a nic- wait a sec, you’re a teacher; did you hear about that middle school that caught fire?” “Yeah, that was Shadow’s Valley, a shame it happened during the Shepherd’s play. The end of the year is supposed to be a time a celebration especially for the graduating eighth graders. This summer is essentially the end of their childhoods; they pretty much start training to be adults in the fall. “ “Indeed that is a shame. Did you hear about what started the fire?” “I think there was a malfunction with the lights or something. There were also reports of a big black sheep fleeing the scene.” “Black Sheep huh, like the fairy tales? When I was a boy my mom and dad would scare my siblings and me with tales of the Black Sheep. You know, things like he drags bad children away into the night never to be seen again, can cause electrical disturbances, be in multiple places at once, cause fog and other weather effects, and pass through walls. If the Black Sheep really does exist, he, no it could have very easily started that fire. I apologize, I’ve taken enough of your time with this idle chatter, Miss Adair please have a lovely day.” “Thank you Harry, you have a good day as well.” It was a nice day out, the sun was shining, and birds were singing, it was a stereotypically picturesque day out but, I couldn’t get the fire out of my head. There was more to it than I told Harry. The fire fighters found evidence of foul play, that one of the lights was smashed, which may mean that the fire was arson.* * * Wow, the evening news is still talking about that fire a week later, things like this usually only last for a day or so, especially if there’s no new information. In the last week alone this city has faced the end of times for the twelfth time this decade, the dreaded SR1-N7 flu that causes rainbow colored vomit, and violent zombie themed flash mobs, yet this fire has been on the news for seven days when (thankfully) no one was hurt. The reporters have nothing new to say and just keep repeating the information about the lights and hyping up the black sheep rumor. I suppose they show whatever keeps ratings up.
Knock! Knock!
What would anyone want with me at 8 o’clock at night? What in the hell– a big black sheep standing upright! Is this some sort of jo–
Posted by: Mustang MKIII
« on: December 24, 2012, 09:12:30 pm »
Stray Sheep: Francis Mutton Chapter 1 Franklin Tharp
Sixty-four black and white squares are all that lie between me and becoming a Shepherd. While, I know I aced the aptitude test, I didn’t do as well on the obstacle course as I would have liked, and I absolutely could not bring myself to club that baby seal like the instructors wanted, so I have to do really well against this computer. My life from today forward depends on this game.
It’s just me versus a giant robotic claw in the center of an ice-cold auditorium while everyone watches, as if I’m a gladiator being fed to the lions.
Twenty moves into the game and I’m down one pawn and struggling for control of the center. I wish the crowd would start talking and being loud again; it’d be better than listening to the sound of my heart popping out of my chest like in those old cartoons.
Sixty moves in and it’s over. Using nothing but a queen and a knight the claw checkmated me by using my own pieces to block me in. Cue the obligatory polite applause while I try not to cry, vomit or pass out.
The tribunal of judges who will decide my fate wait in a small, sterile, white room, just beyond the auditorium. I stop to compose myself before I go in. I know I’m ****, but I can at least face failure with dignity, like a man.
“Mr. Francis Mutton, there you are, please have a seat.” Said, the head shepherd in middle of the tribunal, an elderly grey haired man. “Your aptitude test was astounding, you scored a 97%; one of the highest scores we’ve seen in a long time. Your time on the obstacle course was lackluster, although that could be blamed on asthma and puberty or lack thereof, so you don’t qualify to be a Sheepdog. Like your aptitude test, your chess game was very impressive. You lasted twice as long as the average applicant and demonstrated a very strong critical thought process, even under pressure.” “T-thank you sir.” “Yes, impressive as your academic talents are, I don’t believe you have the stomach to be a Shepherd. You failed to bludgeon the baby seal we set in front of you. A good shepherd needs to be able to make the hard decisions, that’s what being a leader is all about, being able to make difficult choices and get your hands dirty for the good of our fragile society.” That just didn’t make any sense, “But sir what does clubbing a baby seal have to do with the good of society.” “You’re a clever boy, but I fear you are too young to comprehend such things. You’re a Sheep; that’s not to say you won’t be successful in life. With your smarts you could be a doctor or engineer or really anything you except a politician or a policeman or soldier or anything else that’s restricted to Shepherds or Sheepdogs. Your fingerprints and DNA will be entered into the system before you leave. Goodbye Francis and have a nice life.” A pretty redheaded attendant took my fingerprints and DNA, then handed me a copy of my personal record.
Name: Francis Mutton
Age: Fourteen
Approx Height: 4’5
Approx Weight: 80lbs
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Status: Sheep student
Special notes: Small stature and asthma make him a bad fit for a physical vocation but is highly intelligent. Recommended for a high track education.
I suppose I shouldn’t be too disappointed. I’ll still have a good life, get a good job, make money, and have a family. I just can’t shake the feeling that I failed though. My parents really thought I had a chance to be a Shepherd, and then I’d have a chance to change how Sheep get treated, maybe even abolish the Sheep-Shepherd system entirely. I hope they won't be too disappointed. Sigh, my entire family is made up of Sheep.
* * * “Cheer up Francis, you may not have become a Shepherd but you’re still one of the smartest people I’ve ever met, including adults. Now stop sulking; seriously, it’s getting annoying.” “Maddy, for your information my head is down because it’s 7 am, not because I’m sulking. Besides, isn’t doing that lame end of the year play enough of a cause for sulking?” “Don’t be like that! It’s tradition that all graduating 8th grade classes preform the retelling of how the original Shepherds came together to relieve the Sheep of the burden of self-rule and the hard decisions. Even if the play is lame, it’s totally worth it to see you in that sheep costume.” That sarcastic laugh she has almost makes being the sheep worth it. Almost. Come to think of it, “What’re you doing for the play anyways?” “I’m working the curtain.” “Lucky you. I still don’t see why I have to be the sheep anyways.” “Because you’re a shrimp and a Sheep, nerd.” “Good one Rich.” Great, Richard and George just has to start things up right now. “Hey there Dick, didn’t know that was you for a second. The gel in your hair was reflecting light in my eyes.” “I can let that mouth of yours slide for now. I mean I can’t really blame you for being jealous that I became a Shepherd and George here became a Sheepdog. As for my hair; haters gonna hate.” “What Maddie, not going to say anything?” “It’d be a waste of breath, besides you are the only kid who can fit the sheep costume comfortably. Just ignore them for a little while longer, it’s not like you’re going to see them again after this school year ends.” As if I’ll see you again either. Listen to teachers talk about how proud they are of us, eat lunch, talk with friends, get harassed by jerks who are either mad about their placement or lording it over others, repeat step one, go to the dress rehearsal, and preform the play. “Attention students.” Mrs. Pendleton is probably just going to give us a pre-show pep talk. “It seems that Lindsay has food poisoning and can’t say the Shepherd’s Praise before the performance. Who’d like to do it in her stead?” “You know Mrs. Pendleton, I honestly think Francis should do it. He’s the smartest kid in our grade I’m sure he’ll do a great job.” That **** Robert is setting me up. “I-I really don’t want to Mrs. Pendleton.” Everyone knows I stutter when I speak in front the class, not to mention a crowd this big. “Please do it Frances, no one else really wants to do it and it’s obvious that Robert genuinely believes you can do this.” Crap, now I’ll look like a jerk if I don’t recite the Praise. “Fine, just let me take off the sheep costume first.” “Mrs. Pendleton, I think the costume adds a bit of thematic relevance to the Praise. A Sheep, thanking a Shepherd for all the latter has done for the former.” There are just so many things about that sentence that **** me off.
“Great idea Richard. Oh, my, you’d better get out there Francis.” With which she pushed me through the curtains to the microphone. Oh crap. It’s just like the Shepherd chess game; a whole ton of people staring at me while I sweat bullets under blinding lights, listening to my heart pound. Gulp. “I thank the Shepherds, for all t-t-th-they’ve d-done. For t-their tireless protection ag-gainst the c-c-c-chaos of the w-or–.” I just hit the ground with such a loud thud.
Who’s that standing over me? “Francis, are you okay?” Oh, it’s Maddie, she looks pretty good in black.
“Yeah, how long was I out?” My head hurts. “About, five minutes, don’t worry your part isn’t for another ten minutes. Also, after they found out you were okay, everyone burst out laughing. Money even changed hands.” “What do you mean money changed hands?” By the look on her face, I don’t think I wanna know. “Well…. Richard and George were betting on if you’d pass out or wet yourself on stage. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have told you that. Hey where are you going?” “Don’t worry Maddie, I’ll be back in time or my part.” Those ****! They’ve humiliated me for the last damn time; I need to get them back at least once. I think there’s still some paint on the catwalk. Black paint works. Crap the can is mostly full, and heavy, very heavy. Oh, ****, I fell again, got black paint all over me and broke a light.
Oh my god. I hear people freaking out, I am so dead for this. Gotta get out of here. The wet paint actually made sliding down the ladder easier, but kinda makes it hard to see. I wonder what everyone freaked out about; it was just a ligh- oh **** smoke. I set the school on fire.
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