Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 18:33:08 GMT -5
Xanatos noted that his words seem to agitate Tony, if only he gave the slightest indication. Xanatos couldn't help but give a small smirk. Tony was a very intelligent man for a mortal, but he lacked in an important area. It seemed that he thought science could explain anything and everything that he encounted, no matter how unbelievable it was.
Owens merely adjusted his glasses at being called a "banana" and continued to remain quietly observant.
Xanatos, on the other hand, smiled and watched as they finally approached. GLaDOS, the actual brain behind the operations. He had not been fooled into thinking Stark was actually in charge. His "intel" had been enough to reveal that about the organization. Tony, like so many other people in that world, was just a stepping stone to the true leader.
He gave a small laugh at Wheatley's embarrassment before he turned his attention back to to the artificial intelligence in front of him.
"Ah, GLaDOS. It is a pleasure to meet you in person. I look forward to the chance to speak with you later, but for now...."
Xanatos gave a nod of the head before he followed Tony down the new walkway, Owens by his side. His assistant, however, was not so at ease.
"Mr. Xanatos, are you not worried at all about Stratoform taking advantage of you?"
It was code talk Owens was using. He was aware of what his employer really was, had made his own deal with the man, and wondered at what could transpire should thier "hosts" discover Xanatos was one of the very creatures they wished to study.
"Not to worry, Owens. This arrangement will work out well, I am certain."
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 13, 2013 19:36:24 GMT -5
"Thank you, Mr. Xanatos," GLaDOS said as she moved in closer towards her guests, "it's always a joy entertain new...acquaintances."
Tony was quick to notice GLaDOS's pause, "Everything okay, over there?"
GLaDOS didn't respond at first, seeming to be staring at Xanatos with utmost intent.
Tony was starting to worry, "GLaDOS?"
"Sorry," GLaDOS finally answered, "Just a slow-down in my processor, easily correctable."
GLaDOS had only managed to scan Xanatos for a few seconds, but that was all she needed to discover his little secret. The disk inside her computer brain was already spinning at the thought of how to turn this information to her advantage.
Tony gave GLaDOS a quick look over, wondering if she was keeping something from him, then turned his attention to Xanatos.
"As I'm sure you're already aware," Tony said as he gestured towards GLaDOS, "GLaDOS is one of the most advanced AI's in existence, and with a help of Strato-Form ingenuity, we've been able to give her near omnipresent capabilities. She can manage nearly everything in this entire complex, not to mention keep full tabs on all members of Team-X, and perfectly coordinate all missions. She's the greatest asset to our team, if a bit lacking in bedside manner."
"Fortunately," GLaDOS said, "when the fine people at Aperture created me, they only installed the essential subroutines, so not only do I lack bed-side manners, but I also lack the capacity to care."
A second computer voice spoke up, "Nonchalance self-test complete."
"Sorry," GLaDOS spoke again, "just running my usual self-diagnostic of my personality subroutines. Just one of those necessary evils I have to put up with, I'm sure you understand."
"Sarcasm self-test complete."
"Good, that still works."
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 19:54:54 GMT -5
Xanatos turned so that he stood directly in front of GLaDOS, giving the robot a perfect view of him. His dark eyes seemed to spark as he stared at her, his smile growing wider at her pause. Oh he was aware what she was doing. The pause was more than just a cover and Xanatos could sense that she had run a scan on him, that she was now very well aware of what he was. Which was perfect.
He guessed she would hold the information for now, until she could find a way to use it to its full advantage. That was all well and good, but Xanatos knew that the contract he was making with Stark, and by extension all of Team X including GLaDOS, would ensure he had them under control, pieces on a chessboard that wouldn't be able to move against him as he sought to attack the King. Or in this case, the Queen.
"I am sure we have very much we would like to discuss, GLaDOS. After all, everyone has there little secrets."
Owens remained silent but gave a small cough. Xanatos finally broke his gaze from GLaDOS and turned to look at Stark.
"Pardon me, Mr. Stark. I have a regrettable habit of wanting to make the best of any contract I make. However, I would not want to slow down the process. Please, lead on. I am more than ready to meet the rest of your team."
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 13, 2013 20:49:24 GMT -5
"Of course," GLaDOS said in a slightly hushed tone.
As she spoke, a portal opened up at one of the panels in the chamber.
"This portal will lead you to the viewing area for the first test chamber," GLaDOS spoke.
"If you'll follow me," Tony said with a smirk.
After stepping through the portal, the group looked down into the test chamber. It was a flat area, with a single individual standing at the center. Just then, 7 combat robots materialized around him, all armed with bladed weapons. The individual smiled for a moment, then seemed to disappear in an instant. Then, the robots were slashed to pieces by a seemingly unseen force. The despite the robots reactions, they were unable to save themselves from their imminent doom. Once the robots were destroyed, the individual reappeared, with a skid, his smile still evident on his face.
"This," Tony spoke with a gesture, "is Soujiro. Team-X's ace assassin. Fastest human being known to exist; clocked his maximum speeds at mach 1. And that sword of his, 100% adamantium. Most indestructible material known to modern man."
Soujiro turned towards Tony and Xanatos, giving a peace sign as he widened his smile.
"Don't mind the smile," GLaDOS's voice came through unseen speakers, "he's always in a chipper mood, hardly ever shows any other emotions. You'd like him, Mr. Owens. He's like you, only...happy."
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 13, 2013 21:13:39 GMT -5
Xanatos watched in utter silence, stroking his chin as he watched the individual below perform their task.
He gave no expression of how he felt, nor any words to announce if he was pleased or not. He only held a calculating look on his face, his finger stroking his well-trimmed beard.
Owens turned a look at GLaDOS and adjusted his grip on the case.
"Assuredly, GLaDOS. I've found that it is best to keep your emotions and your job separate. In my line of work, it is a requirement."
Xanatos' lips twitched slightly at that but otherwise his face remained the same.
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 14, 2013 2:58:39 GMT -5
"That must be so difficult for you," GLaDOS said teasingly.
"Don't mind her," Tony said to Owens, "she always trying to get a rise out of people."
With that, a second portal opened on the opposite end of the viewing area.
Tony was quick to usher his guests in through the portal, leading them to another test chamber. This one was similar to the first, only now, the action seemed to have already begun. A large dragon was in the center of the chamber, fighting ferociously with a smaller, yet equally strong opponent. After the creature was knocked against one of the chamber walls, the viewers were able to get a better look at the dragon's enemy.
"This fellow, I doubt needs any introduction," Tony said as the action progressed, "Hulk's been a member of our group for quite some time. And yes, whatever rumors you may have heard about him are all true. I dare say this man is quite possibly the most physically powerful living being in existence."
In the chamber, the dragon lunged after the Hulk, it's jaws wide open, ready to make a meal of the relatively smaller being. But just as those jaws tried to clamp down, Hulk leaped up, dodging the dragon's attack. Hulk then flew back down, stomping both his feet against the creature's elongated neck. The dragon then began squirming about on the ground for a moment, making gagging noises as though trying to breath. The Hulk wasted no time, and ended the fight with a strong punch to the dragon's belly, sending it back into the chamber walls. This time, the creature remained still.
Hulk dropped into a sitting position after the end of the fight, heaving deep breaths as he took a moment to rest. He glanced at the viewing area once, then let his vision drop back down to the floor.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 14, 2013 12:07:23 GMT -5
"Truly a most superb fighter."
However, Xanatos' expression was just as unreadable, his eyes still calculating as he watched the Hulk take down the dragon. However, while his face was a mask, Xanatos' mind was running nonstop, taking into account each new variable that was added to the mixture. And it made him very pleased.
Owens looked down into the room, ignoring GLaDOS' comment and observing the Hulk.
"Yes, quite powerful. I do believe we have heard of this individual before. His record, while less than spotless, is impressive none the less."
Xanatos just continued to observe and calculate.
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 14, 2013 17:20:29 GMT -5
Tony turned his gaze upward, "Hey, GLaDOS? You mind taking care of that one?"
"Yes, of course," GLaDOS responded. After she spoke, the injured dragon was transported out of the chamber.
"He'll be fine," Tony said aside, "we've got top notch medical facilities, here."
Tony then led the group through the next portal, into yet another test chamber. This one was much larger than the last two. It had the appearance of a long and wide stretch of road, with what appeared to be two fully armed turrets at one end, a series of obstacles in the middle, and a metal door at the other end.
Tony grabbed a communication speaker from the wall in the viewing area, "You ready, down there?"
A couple of loud revving noises could be heard from the testing chamber, as though responding to Tony's inquiry.
"All right," Tony said, "let 'er rip."
The metal doors flew open, and a motorcycle shot out into the test chamber. Almost immediately, the turrets came alive, firing a barrage of bullets at the motorcycle. The rider was easily able to avoid them, weaving in out among the different obstacles as he deftly evaded the incoming fire. The rider's reactions were almost fluid and instantaneous, as if rider and vehicle were one entity. The turrets then began firing missiles at the rider. He avoided these as well, with just as much grace and ease.
"This is Gun-Max," Tony explained, "he's our wheel-man, if you will. One of the world's most advanced mechanical being ever created. Fully mobile, with abilities far beyond the most advanced human being."
As Tony spoke, the rider, Gun-Max, made a sharp turn and aimed his bike right at one of the obstacles. After reaching high speeds, he was able to launch the bike right into the air. As he flew, Gun-Max reached into his holster for his revolver, and took aim at the turrets. He took two shots, aiming at the exact centers of the turrets, hitting their power distribution circuits with pinpoint accuracy. As soon as his bike touched the ground, the turrets were already sparking from the damage. The turrets then both drooped downward, signalling a complete system failure.
Gun-Max smiled a smug sort of smile as he brought his bike to a halt. He then looked upwards towards the viewing area, giving a two-fingered salute towards Xanatos and Owens.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 16, 2013 11:47:08 GMT -5
Owens walked up besides Xanatos and watched as Gun Max performed with excellent execution before shooting them the peace sign. Xanatos was very quiet as always, but inwardly he was pleased. The Stratoform team might just actually be able to take down the Cirque, if they were careful about how they did it and IF they listened to him. Even with a top notch team like the one he had seen so far, he also knew that the Cirque had dozens of members, and many of them had devastating powers.
"Impressive as always, but I do hope you will have one of your new protective belts given to him. He could be very useful and it would not do well if he malfunctioned while at the Cirque."
Owens frowned down at the peace wielding robot but did nothing else. Xanatos, on the other hand, had turned his gaze back onto Stark, and the look was clear. He was ready to see more and he expected things to get better.
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 16, 2013 18:03:38 GMT -5
"Don't worry," Tony said reassuringly, "we always take every necessary precaution on every assignment."
"In that we prefer if our agents didn't die in the field, so as to maintain their usefulness," GLaDOS interjected.
Tony gave a light cough in response to GLaDOS's comment as he lead the group through the next portal into the final test chamber.
"Now, here," Tony said proudly, "is our pride and joy of Team-X."
The chamber was the biggest one seen on the tour, with a radius of roughly 75 feet. The ceiling for the chamber was as high as 50 feet, with various spires of varying height clustered around the center of the chamber.
"Okay, kiddo, show 'em what ya got!" Tony called out.
Almost immediately, a large group comprising of at least 50 androids materialized in a circle around the edge of the test chamber. They then began converging on the spires in the center of the chamber, some of them leaping into the air. Half of the androids appeared to wield blade weapons, while the other half carries blaster rifles.
Seconds after the androids began their attack, a singular figure flew up from in-between the spires, flying high above them, almost giving the appearance of a winged angel as she landed on one of the highest spires. The androids immediately opened fire at the figure. Their efforts would prove useless, as the figure was easily able to dodge their fire with ease, leaping from spire to spire with acrobatic grace. All the while, flashes of gunfire could be seen in the young woman's hands as she expertly dispatched attacking androids.
"Meet Alpha-7, Aperture Science's triumph in cyber-organic experimentation," Tony said, gesturing towards the woman, "the most advanced super-soldier created through a near-perfect marriage of cybernetic and genetic enhancements. Couple that with 20+ years of intense training and a near limitless lifespan, this woman is unstoppable."
Tony's words seemed to ring true as Alpha-7 continued dispatching android after android with a combination of small-arms fire and hand-to-hand combat techniques. The woman seemed almost in a trance, with all her movements reacting through instinct. She hardly seemed to be breaking a sweat as the androids threw themselves at her in an unrelenting stream.
During the demonstration, Tony walked over to the communication station in the back of the viewing area, and picked up the speaker, "Alpha-7, how 'bout we give these guys the show-stopper?"
Alpha-7 paused briefly as she shot a look up at the viewing area. Then, after giving an attacking android a good kick, she leaped off the spire she stood upon, and placed her hand on the gem on her mechanical arm. She immediately began to glow a bright red, as energy began accumulating around her body. It wasn't long before she was completely engulfed by an aura of fire-like energy that resembled the shape of a flaming bird. In this near indestructible form, Alpha-7 plowed through the remaining androids, disintegrating them on contact. Their attempts to shoot her down proved useless as the laser blasts bounced off the protective aura with no effect.
It didn't take long for Alpha-7 to mop up the last of the androids. Once the demonstration was over, she landed on top of one of the spires, the fiery aura dissipating quickly. Alpha-7's body seemed to be steaming from intense heat as she wiped the sweat off her brow. Her breathing was heavy as she looked up exasperatedly at Xanatos and Owens.
"We done here?" Alpha-7 called up towards the viewing area.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 16, 2013 19:24:14 GMT -5
"Yes, I believe we are." Xanatos said with a smile on his lips and a smirk in his voice. With that, he turned back to Stark and GLaDOS, his face bright and his eyes intense.
"I must say, Mr. Stark and GLaDOS, the team you have put together has gone beyond my expectations. I understand it that you have other members, but they are currently occupied in other endeavors. However, if they are like what I have seen in these exceptional individuals, I do not think their presence is required. Now then."
Xanatos held up a hand and Owens, who had kept his attention on Alpha-7, immediately stepped to. He came up beside Xanatos and handed him the brief case, the silver fastening glistening in the light.
"Now then, I have the finalized contract prepared and ready for signing, but I am sure you wish to review it before you sign it. After all, you are a business man. So shall we retire to a more suitable setting?"
He gave a wide grin at Stark, the case held firmly in his hand.
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 16, 2013 20:29:32 GMT -5
"Of course," Tony said with a wide smile of his own, "glad to see you have confidence in my team."
As he spoke, Alpha-7 was quick to excuse herself, tapping a button her belt to activate a teleporter circuit, allowing her to teleport out of the chamber.
"GLaDOS," Tony said looking upwards, "Take us to-."
"While I hate to put this lovely tour on pause," GLaDOS interrupted, "there seems to be a certain someone in the lobby."
Tony's mood quickly began to sour at the news, "Then tell him to come back tomorrow."
"The individual appears to be one of your attorneys," GLaDOS explained, "said something about the labor dispute in one of our Central American factories?"
Tony gave an irritated sigh as he rubbed his brow, Worst. Timing. EVER.
"I'm very sorry about this," Tony said in his best apologetic tone, "I need to address the monkey suit upstairs. GLaDOS will escort you to my office, and we can conclude our deal there."
Tony then whipped out his smartphone, and typed in a quick command that teleported him away.
"Now that he's out of the way," GLaDOS said, her tone now more menacing, "let's talk."
As she spoke, two portals opened up beneath Xanatos and Owens, dropping the pair back into GLaDOS's chamber. The chamber was completely sealed off this time around, and inside were a group of androids, all armed with high energy blasters that were now pointed at the two guests.
"Don't mind them," GLaDOS said as she lowered herself closer to the floor, "they're just a precaution. Standard procedure when dealing with demonic entities. You can understand that much. Right?"
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 16, 2013 22:12:44 GMT -5
"Of course, Mr. Stark. I understand that business can be rather inconvenient at times, but I am more than willing to wait."
However, as Xanatos spoke, he kept his eyes on where GLaDOS was located. He didn't blink when Tony teleported away or even look surprised when the floor underneath him and Owens disappeared and dropped them back in GLaDOS' main consol room.
Owens looked around quickly at the androids but Xanatos merely kept his eyes on GLaDOS, his smile not wavering at all at the fact that they were surrounded. When Owens moved his hand towards his pocket, Xanatos gave the smallest of shakes of his head and Owens dropped his hand, his expressionless face looking around at the robots.
Xanatos just put his hand in his pocket and held onto the brief case.
"I was beginning to wonder if your scan had been successful or not. I was worried for a moment that you might actually think I was human. It would have been extremely disappointing, given what I know about you, GLaDOS."
|
|
|
Post by inakamoto on Aug 17, 2013 16:20:36 GMT -5
"Yes, no doubt you had high expectations of my performance abilities," GLaDOS responded with an iciness in her voice, "and by the look at your core temperature and lack of sweat on your face, I can assume that you were either prepared for me turning on you, or you're aware of my lack of need to kill you...for the moment."
There was a sudden beep from within GLaDOS's body as she sent out a command to the androids with her. Immediately after the beep, the androids lowered their weapons, assuming an at-ease posture.
"Now, if you don't mind too terribly," GLaDOS said as she leaned in closer towards Xanatos, "perhaps you could describe the stipulations of this contract to me. Perhaps, disclosure of any...enchantments? No doubt, you do have some skill in the magical arts, do you not?"
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Aug 17, 2013 18:52:09 GMT -5
"Some people would say that knowing too much is bad for you, but I would disagree with them, just as I think you would."
He stood at ease as the robots went into a less offensive position, clearly feeling like he was in his natural element.
"Just as you know very well I am demonic in origin, I know that you are currently trying to produce a backup system and unit for yourself, should the people who created you think it is time to pull the plug or an enemy should somehow get close."
At this, Xanatos stroked his chin and turned back to Owens, who stood tense but expressionless.
"Didn't I state at the beginning of our meeting that I like to know as much about my business partners as possible?"
"Yes sir, you did." Owens replied, his eyes still on the robots. Xanatos just turned back to face GLaDOS.
"Well, I think in the end we both have goals we wish to achieve that don't have to cause friction between us, wouldn't you agree? There is no need for you to tell Stark I am a demon just as there is no reason for me to tell them you are illegally uploading yourself into a safety unit to protect yourself. After all, we both get what we want once the deal is signed. You know very well that it contains binding magic, but things can be changed. After all, a small adjustment in the fine print and I can make it so that Stark fulfills his promise AND Stratoform can never stop you from creating a back-up copy of yourself."
Xanatos pushed his hair back behind his back and dusted off his suit sleeve, giving GLaDOS time to process what he had just stated.
|
|