Cheers!
Drakov
Armed and Dangerous Chapter 1
Follow the link below to get to Book II "Enter the Headhunters"
Sunday, January 6, 2019
Armed and Dangerous Book 1 and 2 "Links to all chapters"
Below you will find chronological links to all 17 Chapters of "Armed and Dangerous," A G.I.Joe Origins Story. At the bottom of the post is a link to all the chapters in "Enter the Headhunters," Book 2 in the series. These is the first two books in what will be a three-book story arc.
Cheers!
Drakov
Armed and Dangerous Chapter 1
Follow the link below to get to Book II "Enter the Headhunters"
Cheers!
Drakov
Armed and Dangerous Chapter 1
Follow the link below to get to Book II "Enter the Headhunters"
Friday, January 4, 2019
Blackstar Galoob
Hello everyone. Here is another oldie but a goodie from my standpoint at least. Back in the 1980's, Galoob released a quirky toyline designed to compete with Masters of the Universe called "Blackstar." It featured a couple of unique playability features like laser-light (which was created by activating a roller-type cigarette lighter feature on the back of the figure) and glow-in-the-dark weapons and accessories. The action figure line lasted for about two years and included two series of figures and several boxed vehicles and monster mounts. I have included the pictures above that show off some of my collection, as a lot of my other items are packed away MIB/MOC in storage at the moment.
The top picture includes starting from left to right: The evil Lava Loc, a reptilian-like molten lava creature with a club (series 2 1984). Mara, good female spellcaster (series 1 1983). Tongo, the cat-man (series 1 1983). Meuton, an evil wasp-like creature (series 2 1984).
Back row: Klone, in cloud cat costume (series 2 1984) and front row: Vizir, an evil wizard (series 2 1984). Only series two figures had the laser light feature, and most of the series one figures with the exception of Mara were re-released with it. A portion of the figure's torso was constructed from translucent plastic and when you flicked the roller switch it would create sparks from a flint-like material, in much the same way as an empty cigarette lighter would.
In the bottom picture: John Blackstar, the hero is on the far left (series1 1983). Next to him is Gargo, the vampire (series 1 1983). and to the far right, you can catch a glimpse of Neptul, the fish-man (series 1 1983). The very front rows show off a couple of the solid PVC figures from the line that were included with the poseable figures. There is a red and blue demon which is most commonly acquired in their yellow-green coloration, Balkar, a good Trobbit, is located between them. All the way to the left in the front in the first photo is another evil creature that I'm not sure was named. (Help me out if you know.)
Most of the above characters appeared in the animated series that aired for only one season in 1983 titled "Blackstar."
I hope you enjoyed a look back at this iconic toyline.
Cheers!
Drakov
Thursday, January 3, 2019
Enter the Headhunters Chapter 22
Chapter 22
The Mechanic had made great strides at renovating and reconditioning the outdated facility. In a matter of only two weeks, he and his team of assigned technicians had installed six heavy duty automobile lifts, a new conveyor belt drive, a maintenance elevator, and two isolation labs. Various light fixtures and the electrical panel were updated to code. The entire lower level had been converted into a bomb shelter lined with lead panels and a panic room door.
The Headman’s overseer office was outfitted with the necessary wiring and routers to serve as the central hub for the warehouse’s wifi, security cameras, and computer servers. The Mechanic had installed a blind wall on the southern wall that would obscure the Headman’s actual office from view. This room would also be equipped with a perimeter alarm and a hidden door for private entry and exits.
Other Headhunter recruits were busy on the exterior of the building hanging advertising signs, updating lighting and applying fresh paint to various surfaces. The building had undergone a major transformation and was beginning to take on the appearance of a legitimate shipping corporation. The project was moving along ahead of schedule and it would only be another week before products could be both synthesized and shipped from the site. The rear overhead garage door opened to allow a box truck to enter. The driver backed into one of the service bays and two additional delivery men emerged from the back of the truck wielding hand trucks.
“Excuse me, but where would you like us to unload the petroleum products? We’ve got thirty cases of heavy weight motor oil.”
The mechanic waved at the worker and then sent a headhunter named Ramirez to see to the situation. At about the same time, a tractor-trailer hauling a steam shovel and two large oil tanks pulled up in the back lot.
“Excellent, the gas pump and tank installation team is here.” He rubbed his hands together happily and walked out the exit door.
“Hi! Are you the guy we see about burying these fuel tanks?”
“That would be me. Will you also be laying the concrete and installing the pumps? I had specifically requested a team that could do it all.” The driver reached down and produced a written work order outlining the extent of their job participation.
“This document gives the details of our involvement. It also provides you with a tentative timeline. We will be doing the digging. In about an hour our electricians and plumbers will be working together to outfit the tanks for fuel dispersal. Afterward, a team of masons will be sealing the pad so that tomorrow our installation technicians can install the pumps and overhang. A fuel truck is scheduled for a 1500 hour delivery tomorrow. It says here that you require diesel and a 93 octane gasoline. Does all that meet your approval?”
The Mechanic took the form from the driver and scanned over the details and then focused on the name of the fuel company.
“I don’t recognize this fuel supplier. Are they new?”
“Who is this Hiss Oil? Look, buddy, the job went out to bid and they came in with the best price and reputation. They’ve been distributing petrol to the midwest and southern states for over a decade now.” The driver looked at his wristwatch and reached for a pen to hand to the burly man dressed in an automotive jumpsuit.
“Look I don’t mean any disrespect, but can I get a signature so we can start digging? We’re on a strict time frame.” The Mechanic took the pen and signed at the bottom of the last page then handed the contract back to the driver.
“Alright, there’s an area marked with hazard cones on the southern side of the building where the gas tanks are slated for installation. I’ll be by around 1600 hours to check on your progress.” The driver smiled and put the truck back in gear.
“Don’t worry our part will be done by then and the second team will be here.” He waved and drove off towards the southern side. The Mechanic watched as the tractor-trailer parked and the passenger exited the cab to unchain the steam shovel. A dump truck and a backhoe drove around the back of the complex a few moments later and parked near the dig site. Each vehicle team was quick to get to work excavating the area. The hired technician walked back into the warehouse in order to oversee and direct the activities taking place inside. Mr. Skee would be pleased and if things continued to progress at this pace, he would be deserving of a bonus.
As Charles exited Bacro industries he was visibly frazzled. On the way down the elevator, he had already sent off two private messages instructing Gristle to meet him in the parking garage with a unit of Headhunter Stormtroopers. An ice cream truck with the “Yummy Bunny” logo was parked in the lot awaiting his arrival as he exited the double glass doors. His second in command was standing just outside and escorted him to the back of the ice cream truck. After he opened the latched door, both men entered the rear of the vehicle where six heavily armored soldiers dressed in black and gold with bug-like helmets brandished IWI Tavors. The men immediately rose in order to salute their commanding officers.
“Sit down, sit down!”
The troopers immediately sat down holding their assault rifles firmly across their knees.
“We have an issue that needs to be taken care of immediately. We need to pay the Weasel a visit a little earlier than planned and I want answers.”
The tone of his voice indicated that he meant business.
“Get me that little bottom-feeding scumbag on the horn now!”
Danimal took out his phone and dialed the contact’s number on speaker. the line trilled once, twice and a third time before the man answered.
“Yeah, what is it? I’m kind of busy.”
The voice was gruff and hinted at being mildly annoyed.
“Hello, Rodney.” The cartel leader’s demeanor had steadied and calmed by this time and no longer indicated his underlying rage.
“It’s the Headman.”
The voice on the other end immediately softened its tone.
“Oh, um..I’m sorry, boss. To what do I owe the pleasure? I mean.. aren’t we supposed to be meeting up later on today?”
“Plans have changed. We need to move things up. I need to see you now. You’ll need to stop what you’re doing and meet me at the location.”
“But boss, I’ve got other clients waiting. I...I can’t just blow them off.”
“Have someone else handle it. I’ll be there in thirty. Don’t make me wait.” He ended the phone call and looked over at his constituents. “He either answers all my questions, or we take him out today!”
“Boss is there something else going on mon? I know the Weasel is a character, but he’s not that much of a threat.”
The well-dressed man turned abruptly and pulled out his gold-plated gun aiming it directly at his second-in-command’s face.
“Do you dare question my actions? Jimmy the Leech is dead! I heard the whole thing go down over the phone. It ended with some unknown player calling me out to the docks for a talk. I don’t find this to be a coincidence as it comes on the heels of your previous argument with the Dreadnok pirate! Learn to shut your mouth and take orders!”
Gristle immediately threw up his hands in surrender and made no move to retaliate. The stormtroopers in attendance made no move to assist.
“I...I’m sorry, boss. I wasn’t aware of the situation. I came as soon as you requested. Please. Haven’t I always been a loyal supporter? I’ll take care of this.”
“No. No, you won’t. You’ve done enough already.”
“But boss...” With the gun still inches from his face, the Headman glared at him while speaking through clenched teeth.
“I’ll take care of it. You’ll make sure the mess doesn’t get any bigger. Am I understood?”
Gristle offered up no further resistance.
“Yes, boss.”
“Alright, let’s go pay the Weasel a little visit. Gristle you’re driving me. Epsilon, take off your helmet and trail us in another vehicle to the site. Once we get there, put on your private comm links. If I say the word ‘blindspot’ that’s your cue to move in and remove the threat. Any questions?”
The squadron and Gristle all answered in unison.
“No Headman, for your reign is supreme!”
There was no conversation between the two drug dealers on the way over to the meeting. Charles had entered into a meditative trance clearly going over multiple scenarios in his head prior to meeting with the slippery asset. He wanted answers and wasn’t afraid to use excessive force get them, but if the altercation could be avoided and the asset spared, that scenario was acceptable as well. Gristle announced their arrival then put the car in park and opened the rear door for his boss.
The Headman scanned the area for any signs of deception. Two cars were parked outside of the tiny rustic bar. Each vehicle showed telltale signs that their owners were in the street business being adorned with a few inconspicuous window decals or bumper stickers that only other gang members or rivals would notice.
“How I despise those foreign imports and their lowered suspensions. What a waste of a car!”
Gristle did little more than nod as continued to scan the area for any signs of deception. The two men walked into the bar to find their asset sitting comfortably at a side table. Five other thugs sat strategically around the room clearly packing heat, ready to spring into action should things go sideways. The alleged traitor stood up as he recognized the Headman entering the establishment.
“Hello Charles, so good to see you again.” The Headman smiled and motioned for the man to sit.
“Hello, Rodney. Or should I say, hello, Weasel?”
“Whoah, Whoah! No need to get derogatory. I assure you I have been nothing but loyal to your organization. In fact, I initially asked to meet with you to discuss a new client and a possible increase to my share of the take.”
“Don’t play coy with me. There’s been a situation and I need to know who’s behind it?”
The Headman pulled out a knife from his belt and stabbed it into the wood of the table before the man. The room remained calm although, he thought he heard the faint sound of a gun safety being switched off.
The Weasel shifted uncomfortably but made no move to attack instead he placed his hands up above the table in full view of his visitor.
“I assure you, I know nothing about any incidents and wouldn’t dare make a move against you, boss. I honestly only want my fair share of the profit.”
Charles narrowed his eyes and relaxed his posture as he took a seat in front of the man. Gristle remained standing off to his boss’ right, but more than ready to draw his weapon if needed.
The Headman after sitting started over.
“There has been a situation in Jersey and at least one of my informants is dead. Are you assuring me that you, and no one at your disposal, have any information on this?”
The Weasel shook his head in response, but another voice answered from the side of the room.
“And what if he did? What are you really going to do about it, huh?”
The Headman and everyone else in the room turned to regard the speaker.
“I don’t even know that guy. I swear. He was sitting here when we arrived having a drink.”
The Headman leaned in across the table and through gritted teeth made an accusation.
“And neither you nor your men thought to clear the room when you got here?”
The Weasel could do little more than shrug.
“And who pray tell, do I have the privilege of addressing?” He turned back to the man across the table. “Our meeting is adjourned. You and your boys can leave. Shows over.”
“No one is leaving! Every foot soldier in the room drew their gun and trained it on the stranger at the bar. The man didn’t make any move to draw a weapon and continued smoking his cigarette.
“I was sent here with a message for the lot of you. These streets belong to Vargus so you need to either join us or step aside. My boss grows tired of you and your so-called Headhunters thinking the drug business is theirs.”
His tone was even and confident.
The Headman had heard the name Vargus, but they were a South American cartel with few if any ties to the United States. He stood up and approached the seated man.
“Vargus, you say? Never heard of them. Let me ask you this friend. Was it your employer who took out Jimmy the Leech? Because if he did, we have a problem.”
“Like I said before, what if we did?” The shadowy man now turned his steely gaze upon the well-dressed man. “Here’s the deal, I walk out of here unscathed, or you’re all dead.”
“Is that so?”
“Yeah, it is. Look up at the rafters. See the Christmas lights?”
The Headman looked upwards.
“Ever seen purple bulbs before? Those purple lights are a string of detonators. The room is wired to explode with enough force to kill everyone here and anyone parked outside in the parking lot. So, what shall I tell my employer?”
The Headman looked around the room one more time and contemplated his options before responding. He had planned for a gunfight, not a bomb, and if his adversary really wanted him dead, he would have done it already.
“Tell him, I look forward to our meeting tonight.” He tipped his hat at the man and walked casually towards the door. “Come on boys. Time to go.”
“I said no one is leaving!”
“Oh, dear boy. I’m not a no one and I am leaving. Cheerio chap.”
The Headman wanted to turn and put a bullet right in the arrogant man’s head but restrained himself as he didn’t know the nature of the bomb’s detonator. The other men in the room followed his lead calling the man’s bluff. As the last man exited the bar, there was a crackling and popping sound.
“Everyone get down!”
Everyone immediately hit the dirt as the building erupted in a giant fireball behind them. Gristle jumped and used his body to shield his boss as the shockwave knocked both men from their feet. A second explosion occurred about thirty seconds later indicating the building’s gas line had also ignited. One of the Weasel’s henchman lay very still to his left while a second man was screaming and rolling around frantically in order to put out the flames that had engulfed his clothes. Six heavily armored Stormtroopers appeared within moments in order to protect their fallen comrades. One grabbed the body of the fallen man on the ground quickly carrying him to the safety of the armored ice cream truck. Gristle quickly helped his boss up to his feet.
“Are you alright boss?”
The well-dressed man looked down at the dirt that now soiled his expensive designer suit, and pushed off the help of his second in command.
“Find out everything you can about this Vargus guy. This means war!”
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Arco, "the Other World Collection"
The above collection was a labor of love for me. Back in the mid-1980s, I received an unexpected set of action figures for my 10th birthday. Having a deep fascination with LJN's Dungeons and Dragons figure line, my mom and grandma decided to supplement my birthday present with a three-figure set from Arco's The Other World (1983). The set I received had King Zendo, Hondu and two mogs. They were apparently part of the villain line for this series and came complete with glow in the dark weapons. Anyone who knows me, knows I'm a sucker for any toyline with a glow in the dark feature. the figures were soft rubber with internal wires that allowed the figures to bend, similar to the old Gumby line. The following Christmas I received Froggacuda and then for about a decade, I forgot about the toyline. In the late 90s and early 2000s, I started frequenting vintage toy shops and Mega Toy shows. It was here that I discovered other figures from the Other World and I slowly became obsessed with completing the line. To this day, I am still missing the weapons rack and a couple glow in the dark boulders, but I have found and purchased all the other figures and accessories that you can see above. I will continue to add information to this post detailing each figure and creature included, but this is all for now.
Cheers!
Drakov
O.K. so here is a little more information for you. Bottom shelf starting at the left: Antor the Stinger being ridden by Skitzo the two-headed man. Next to him is Yurus the Terrible, being ridden by Jurka the warrior. Next to them, Sir'Cobra. Moc, the rock thrower is next and all the way to the right is the two-headed Gaifand dragon being ridden by Hondu, the Hatchetman.
Next shelf up begins with Kamaro being ridden by Raidy who is squaring off against the Weapon Master riding Sharkoss. Ronin is hanging out in the far background with some purple Mogs and orange Jipps. The lava man is next in the lineup followed by Princess Kreena riding aloft Kontory the great bird.
The top shelf is home to the greatly coveted "Castle Zendo." I scored a MIB specimen back when no one else was searching for them at a cost of $39.99. The castle is rather basic but has really cool glow-in-dark features. King Zendo is looking out from the balcony over General EssGee and his small army of Jipps. Froggacuda, the swamp monster stands at the ready to defend the exterior from the threat. Throw in a couple of Rock Lords, "Just because they Rock!" pun intended and you have the awesome display you see here. The only item that still eludes me is the weapon rack which came with the weapon master figure. One day I'll track one down.
Another interesting fact about the toyline is that many of the figures were repackaged with other characters to create "Battles in a Box." I am fortunate to own a MIB specimen of "Fighting Terrans." In this set, Raidy and Ronin are packaged with their respective weapons, a couple of Jipps and the mighty Gaifand Dragon. in addition to the awesome figures inside the back of the box was adorned with an illustrated comic. Hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane with a little appreciated toyline from 1983.
Cheers!
Drakov
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Enter the Headhunters Chapter 21
Chapter 21
After a long discussion, the Cobra supreme leader seemed content with the installation of his new operative. Ghost Bear possessed a wealth of military knowledge and had an excellent grasp of the Middle East, their language, and customs. He had not taken long to dye his obnoxious orange hair and was set to meet with Major Bludd in order to gain the intel on the informant he would be meeting up with at the currently undisclosed location. The major had only questioned him on a few key matters after his meeting with Cobra Commander. The first being his knowledge of the Islamic faith, the other his grasp of the Farsi, Arabic, Hebrew and Urdu languages. It wouldn’t be the first time he was undercover in a foreign country, but it would be the first time he was undercover and mostly alone in a possible war-torn nation. Major Bludd excused himself from the room and returned ten minutes later carrying a large black locking case.
“You’ll be needing this for your journey.”
He placed the large heavy case onto a nearby table and unlocked the latches. Upon opening the lid, the inside housed some curious objects. The most peculiar being a glass canister containing a green semi-translucent gas.
“You’ll be traveling to your location by ground. We cannot risk infiltration by way of the local airports, and the substances contained in this case would never pass through customs.”
Ghost Bear moved in closer and reached for the strange canister. The major grabbed his hand preventing him from touching it. Ghost Bear eyed him curiously.
“What is it?”
“Consider it your insurance policy should things go awry. It’s a deadly neurotoxin capable of being dispersed into the air or drinking water. Once released, it can infect and effectively wipe out upwards of twenty-five hundred people. Should your negotiations with Cobra’s affiliates go sideways, this will ensure that they are no longer in our employ.”
“I thought I was supposed to be going undercover?”
“Your undercover status applies to getting you into the country and the area of concern. Once you’re in, you will be serving as a Cobra emissary. We are not expecting hostility from the terrorist cell and as long as they accept our proposals, you will then be working side by side within the organization to make sure they hold up their end of the bargain.”
The younger operative made a noticeable grimace.
“This is not what I was expecting to be doing. I’m not a diplomat!”
“Hold your tongue. This is an extreme honor. And the fact that the commander agreed to your deployment speaks to your abilities and future in Cobra. My services are required elsewhere, but if they weren’t, I would be handling this situation personally. Do not doubt that for a minute!”
Ghost Bear nodded his understanding and then returned his attention to the contents of the case. In addition to the canister, there was a strange looking handheld injection pen. There was also a stack of foreign currency, two passports, a foreign driver’s permit, and some other handheld weapons.
“Most of the weapons were 3D printed using state of the art high heat resistant polymers. They will not set off metal detectors, but they do unfortunately have a short service life. Once you’re at the specified location, you will be provided with more than adequate resources, but these may still come in handy.”
The soon to be deployed operative glanced over at the injecting pen.
“The handheld is for assassinations. Should anyone in the organization be unwilling to comply with our directives, that pen will ensure they are dead within a thirty-six-hour window. The toxin is untraceable, undetectable in the blood, non-contagious and will mimic the symptoms of a fatal heart attack. Use it with extreme discretion. Your ride will be here within the hour.”
Major Bludd handed him a swatch of yellow paper with some numbers scribbled on it.
“These are the coordinates of your rendezvous and the name of your contact. After you memorize the information, eat it. It’s biodegradable and fully digestible.”
The Siberian tracker had a photographic memory and after glancing once more at the coordinates and his contact’s name, he swallowed the paper.
“So, what’s your liason’s name?”
“Fareeq Azulea”
“Excellent, don’t forget it. He is a trusted operative and someone you can rely on if the situation gets iffy. Now, be sure to maintain radio silence until you are settled in. Good luck. Make Cobra proud son!”
He extended his armored plated hand and grasped the forearm of Ghost Bear. The two shook on it.
“It will be my honor to complete this mission and further the reach of the Cobra nation. Hail Cobra!”
The supreme commander observed the entire interaction from the confines of his private quarters. There were no areas in the Cobra compound that did not have audio and video access other than the commander’s private quarters. In that situation, the recordings were made by tiny cameras and microphones concealed in the inner working of his chromed face mask. He was happy with his selection and satisfied that the good major had provided enough of the intel to get the new operative to agree to the mission. What Ghost Bear didn’t know however was that the entire operation was designed to simply test his loyalty, and that there was no imminent danger. He was being sent in to oversee a squabble over the amount of commission being collected for armaments provided. The assignment was all a ruse. Cobra Commander had been unsure of Ghost Bear’s intentions as he was afterall the son of Kwinn, a Cobra traitor, who had died several years earlier. He clicked out of the screen after the two parted ways, and turned his attention to another more urgent matter involving another alleged allied group known as the Red Shadows. The group had been making what they thought were secret arms deals with aspiring warlords for several decades now, and were not welcoming of the sometimes overly eccentric commander.
Bribery had yielded only temporary alliances with Baron Ironblood and the Red Laser, but the commander wanted more than makeshift arrangements. He needed a way to ensure their loyalty, and the only way to do that, was to create a common threat. His exploits on the African mainland had exposed the G.I.Joe team to the world. While his mind probing experiments had made great strides into understanding the inner workings of the top secret military strike force. Some properly planted clues could lead the Joes right to the Baron’s back door. Leaving the Baron with two choices: accepting the Cobra nation’s help in deflecting the attack and admitting their military shortcomings, or being promptly eliminated from the playing field. Quite honestly, the commander didn’t care which scenario played out, either way, he would emerge victorious with new field operatives or a new area of the world to exploit and control.
He flipped the computer monitor to a screen showing the egomaniacal hypnotist, known as Crystal Ball. He had trusted the carnival charlatan to infiltrate the minds of his recent prisoners and the Joe team member chosen to infiltrate his Kenyan strike team. He watched intently as the strange man entered into a trance employing the circular motion of his shield which created an unseen barrage of magical waves. Not wanting to interrupt the man’s concentration, or be hypnotized himself, he switched off the video feed leaving only the room audio on.
“You are nothing more than a pawn for the collective political warship. G.I.Joe has no real need for you. To them, you are nothing more than an expendable asset. Your only choice is to desert them. Let go of your loyalty to the bureaucratic machine. Tell me everything you know about your captors, I alone can free you from your oppressors.”
The commander could only imagine the havoc being wrecked upon the mind of the Joe known as Pathfinder.
Many months had passed since the staged coup in Kenya, and the hypnotist had been slow and methodical at extracting information from his test subject’s mind. He started with getting his real name, his mother’s maiden name, bank account routing numbers, and even his first pet’s name. He commonly entered the soldier’s mind while he slept in the form of his dreams. The little bits of intel extracted helped pave the way to obtaining bigger and better information. Cobra now knew the location of three G.I.Joe mobile bases, the names of the generals placed in charge of the organization, and the primary military specialty of at least four dozen previously unknown military operatives. However, he continued to hit a wall of resistance when he inquired about the location of the Pit and the location of top secret special missions currently underway. Oh, it was possible that the joe didn’t know the information, but Crystal Ball needed to be certain.
Crystal Ball smiled after his final question received a revealing response. The commander would be pleased with this new piece of the puzzle. He switched off his computer and the oscillating hypnoshield. Almost immediately the intercom on his desk flashed. He reached forward to answer the beacon.
“I trusssst you have some interesssting news to report.”
The psychic smiled and looked up at the hidden camera in the corner of the ceiling.
“Of course Commander. I do. Indeed.”
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Advanced Dungeons and Dragons 1980s
Thought I would share an oldie but a goodie with all of you. This is a picture from my toy collection that dates back about twenty years now. I spent about three years on Ebay hunting down all the above figures in order to recreate an homage to the original cartoon series.
For anyone not familiar with the 80s Saturday cartoon series, pictured above are the main characters and their nemesis. Eric, the cavalier, is front and center with his magic shield. Behind him is Hank, the ranger, and his magical bow. Shiela, the thief is to his right with her magical cloak of invisibility.In front of her but blocked by the Dungeon Master's hands are Bobby, the barbarian, and his pet unicorn, Uni. Their nemesis, the evil wizard, Venger, is in the background. All of these PVC figures were released by Schleich, a German toy company, in the 1980s and were not easy to come by. There were several different poses available, but I don't know which were more common or rare. I do know that a set of four alternate figures were offered with the Dungeons and Dragons board game, Fantasy Forest. These were of Presto the magician, Hank the Ranger, Uni the unicorn, and Sheila the thief. I was able to find sealed samples of these much easier online.
The other monster figures pictured were from a separate toy line manufactured by LJN. The heroic bronze dragon is on your left and his rider, the good paladin, Strongheart . To your left is the series two five-headed evil dragon, Tiamat. Tiamat appeared quite regularly in the cartoon. Strongheart, however, only ever had one cameo and the bronze dragon never appeared. Behind Tiamat is the evil Nightmare and his rider the warrior, Warduke. (Blocked in the photo) Warduke and the Nightmare appeared in two memorable episodes, one in which he captures the Dungeon Master and offers him up for ransom to Venger. The last creature pictured in the rear is the bipedal, lion-headed Dragonne. He also never appeared in the cartoon, but was one of my favorite monsters from the LJN series.
I hope you enjoyed my short banter on the above characters. Please let me know if you'd like more pictures or information.
Cheers!
Drakov
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Enter the Headhunters Chapter 20
Chapter 20
The commencement ceremony was set for 1300 hours the following day, as was customary with the creation of all new sub-teams, the new recruits would be publicly sworn in before the entire team. Afterward, we would all be shipped out to a new base of operations where we would be briefed about our mission and receive any necessary additional training. I was excited about my public appointment, but even more so about the importance of the task force. My very selection was a rite of passage. It meant that the previous year of special ops training with the G.I. Joe team had been a success. That I had graduated beyond grunt status, but at the same time that my service to my country would be all the more difficult and important.
We waited patiently outside the auditorium for the procession music to begin. I've never been married, but I equated my nervous anticipation to that of a new bride readying herself to walk down the aisle. Each of us was dressed in our finest military attire. I had had my dress blues dry cleaned and pressed for the occasion. I was permitted to bring Dangerous in alongside me, just as Junkyard would be accompanying Mutt. As the music began, I felt the throngs of anxiety welling up inside me. Every member of the Joe team currently not on assignment would be standing and saluting us as we marched to the front stage. For some of the veteran members, this was merely a formality for the brass and the paper pushers. After the ceremony, we would have to sign our name on some new, top-secret dossier, and after today, it might be a long time before I returned to my quarters in the Pit.
My current status would be recorded as enlisted and on assignment. My location would be disclosed on a need to know basis, and communication outside of my unit would be restricted.
I steadied my nerves and followed in behind Stretcher and Bombstrike. When we finally completed our procession to the front stage, we all saluted the members of the team standing before us. The entrance music ended and the commencement speaker directed our attention to Old Glory, as the “Star Spangled Banner” began to play.
There were only two other times that the chords of that song had meant so much to me. The first time was my commencement ceremony in the Marine Corps, the second was prior to being sworn in as an official member of the G.I.Joe team just over a year ago. They say the power of music is unpredictable and without limits. It can fully motivate a person to do the unthinkable or reduce someone to tears. “For the land of the free---and the home of the brave!” As the final words of the anthem concluded, I felt transformed. I felt empowered. I had found a new cause, and The DEF was destined to be its champion.
The room erupted in applause as the final notes of the band fell silent. General Hawk approached the podium and after a brief welcome, asked the congregation to please be seated.
“Good afternoon esteemed men and women of the G.I.Joe team. It is not every day that we get to induct members of our family into the ranks of a newly formed task force. So many times, we are simply called away on various assignments based upon nothing more than primary military specialty and overall availability. This can be the way our service to this nation occurs. Today, however, is different. The G.I.Joe team, in conjunction with the federal government of the United States, has been petitioned to select and assemble a team of highly qualified and dedicated operatives solely to wage the war on opioid addiction and illegal drug distribution in our great nation. As many of you may be aware, not since the 1960s has the influence of drugs threatened so many lives in the United States!”
The team members in attendance remained quiet and respectful. As I sat on the dais, I was able to view a wide array of emotion on the faces of all those in attendance. Some were filled with rage at the mere mention of the opioid epidemic while others showed empathy, elation, and hope. Their reactions to our cause, only made me more proud to be there.
“The fine men and women seated before you, have been selected to assist the United States at winning the war on drugs. Nominees, when I call your man and rank, please stand.”
The official moment was finally here. My stomach was still tied up in knots, but I was confident that that would soon pass.
“Lieutenant Junior Skip A. Stone, Cutter. Sergeant Thomas Larivee, Stretcher. Corporal Alyssa Renee Stall, Bombstrike. Sergeant Paige Adams, Mayday. Private First Class Steven Kordos, Armed and Dangerous. Sergeant Stanley Perlmutter, Mutt and Junkyard. Corporal Ross A. Williams, Muskrat. Captain John Zullo, Claymore. Not in attendance today, Corporal Jason A. Faria, Shockwave. Corporal Thomas P. Mangiaratti, Long Arm. First Sergeant Thomas S. Bowman, Mace, and heading up the Drug Elimination Force, Major Earl Morris, Bulletproof.”
Two previously unseen and unmentioned members of the task force approached the stage from the back of the auditorium in full military regalia. Major Morris left his chair next to the General and the final three members joined us on stage, standing in front of the remaining three vacant chairs.
“Ladies and Gentlemen of the Drug Elimination Force, please recite the oath of initiation with me.”
Each of us had been handed a program on our way in. The oath of initiation was printed on the second page after the commencement speech and introduction of candidates.
“Please raise your right hand.”
We all did as instructed.
“I, Steven Kordos, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. I most humbly accept this appointment to the Drug Elimination Force and will carry out my assignment while maintaining the level of secrecy this mission entails. So help me God."
“It is with great pride that I now present...the members of the D.E.F!”
The room erupted into applause as the letters D.E.F left the general’s lips.
After the oath was complete, all were all invited to sit. Major Morris returned to his place next to General Hawk then approached the podium in order to introduce a guest speaker, a senator from the state of Connecticut. He was a homegrown public servant from the Northeast, which was my part of the United States. He didn’t speak nearly as long as General Hawk and simply congratulated each of us for accepting this difficult, yet rewarding assignment. I looked over to my fellow task force members as his final words rung out through the auditorium.
“And together, we will defeat this threat!”
All in attendance applauded.
Upon completion of the senator’s speech, the official anthem of the G.I.Joe team began to play indicating that it was time for our procession out of the auditorium. Light food and refreshments were made available for all at the Pit Cafeteria, but this would be our last night on base. A private Humvee would be sent at 0800 hours to take all the new members and their necessary belongings to our new undisclosed base camp. Wherever that might be.
I walked around the cafeteria of the Pit and shook the hands of just about every person in the room. In addition to the congratulations and well wishes, several team members offered advice as well. I listened to all the kernels of wisdom tossed my way and after an hour of socializing, I excused myself and Dangerous from the festivities. In all honesty, it’s not easy maneuvering around a congested room with an adult cheetah at your side and free food being occasionally dropped on the floor.
After stopping back at my quarters to give my furry companion a break from all the excitement, I decided to do some light packing before checking back in on Pathfinder. Doc had said that there was really no improvement to his condition even though the all the recent medical tests revealed no distinguishable underlying cause. He remained in a deep sleep most of the time with bouts of vivid nightmares. He would wake only briefly. Sometimes speaking screaming and at other times speaking some garbled nonsense before falling back into a catatonic trance-like state. There was clearly something wrong, but no one could pinpoint the reason for his sudden unusual behavior.
“Alright Kitty, it’s time for a little timeout.”
I opened the door to his crate and Dangerous happily walked in and laid down on his comfy cat bed. He was clearly wiped out from all the goings on and was napping within a few minutes time.
“I know, I really tired you out. Get some rest, my furry friend. Tomorrow will be the dawn of a new adventure.”
I rubbed him gently under the chin before closing the latch on his cage door. I then proceeded to do some more packing, throwing a few more pairs of socks and shirts into my oversized duffle bag. Looking at the clock on the wall, I decided it was time to head over to the infirmary.
It was a short walk there and when I arrived, Pathfinder appeared to be resting comfortably. I sat down in the chair next to his bed and started a conversation, not sure if he could hear me.
“Hey, buddy. How are you feeling? You’ll be happy to know that I am now an official member of the Drug Elimination Force. The ceremony just ended a little while ago, and I will be heading out to my new base camp tomorrow morning. I just wanted to stop by and check in on you before I left.”
There was little response from him as I spoke. Occasionally he grunted or sighed loudly, but there were no audible sounds that indicated that he knew I was even there. I reached out in order to clasp his right hand.
“I couldn’t head out without thanking you again for all you did for me over the past year. I never would have gotten out of Kenya if it wasn’t for you.”
He tightly squeezed my hand and sat up abruptly pulling me in so his face was near to my ear.
“You gotta help me, the waves keep pulling me under and I can’t swim bro. Save me and the rest of the team!”
The words were mostly whispered, but his eyes were wide open when he spoke them.
“What waves? How can I help you?”
I wanted to help him.
“Make them stop! They’re in my head!”
He was screaming loudly now. Then his grip relaxed as his eyes rolled up into his head and he fell back onto the bed in a fit of convulsions. He began foaming at the mouth and his heart monitor alarm sounded.
“Help! I need help in here!”
I immediately ran to the receptionist just as Lifeline and a nurse ran past me with a crash cart. Apparently, all the commotion had already alerted them to the goings on in the room. I attempted to follow them back into the room, but they closed the door behind them leaving me out in the hallway. I walked to the reception area and took a seat, nervously awaiting news of his condition. The whole situation was so odd, and it seemed to all begin after the completion of our mission in Kenya.
Could he have picked up an unknown parasite that was now starting to affect his brain? Could he have been exposed to a mutagen while serving in the Cobra ranks? These and other thoughts flooded my mind as I worried about my friend’s well-being. Then it struck me. The hypnotist, Crystal Ball had attempted to control my mind during my imprisonment. Could he somehow be controlling Pathfinder’s mind now? And if he was, how could I prove it and prevent him from continuing?
The clock continued to march forward and about an hour later Lifeline emerged from the room and approached me.
“We managed to stabilize his vitals and he is resting comfortably now. Can you tell me what happened before his episode?”
I thought back to the conversation and detailed how I was telling him about my recent assignment and morning deployment. I went on to tell him about the voices in his head and about how he gripped my hand and pulled me in close to ask for help. Lifeline took some notes and nodded.
“Is it possible that he could be suffering from some type of mind control or probing? When we were being held in the captured marine outpost in Africa, one of Cobra’s operatives probed my mind using some type of wave creating hypno-shield. Pathfinder wasn’t interrogated as far as I know, but he was posing as a Cobra officer. Is it possible that he could have been brainwashed unknowingly as a result of infiltrating the terrorist coalition and now they are using his mind to glean information about the G.I.Joe team?”
The medic took down my concerns and offered a response.
“I’ve never seen this type of behavior in any other patients, but Cobra is unconventional and has been known to push the envelope when it comes to mind control experiments. Typically mind control is short-term and should have worn off by now, unless they got inside his brain and are somehow still bombarding his thoughts with subliminal waves. Thanks for the input, I’m going to contact Psyche Out and Doc and discuss this further. In the meantime, there is really nothing else that you can do for him today and it might be better if you go and prepare for your deployment tomorrow.” I grimaced at his request, but I really did not want to leave my teammate’s side.
“But... I can’t just leave him like this.”
Lifeline held up his hands to quiet my protests.
“I promise if there is any change in his condition, you will be one of the first people I contact and I will ask General Hawk and Duke if I can provide you with updates even after your relocation. Now please, go, get some rest. Your friend would expect no less from you.”
I nodded in understanding, shook his hand in thanks before reluctantly walking out the door towards the Pit Pub. I needed to see my friends for at least a little while before turning in for the night. I wanted to make Mainframe and some of the others aware of my concerns even though I knew, that my friend was in the very capable hands of the Joe doctors. As I entered the pub, I immediately noticed Mainframe sitting at a side booth with Clutch and DeeJay. I walked over in their direction confident, that they would mirror my concerns.
“Hey, guys. Got a second? I need to run something by you and get your opinions.”
Clutch waved the waitress over and ordered another round of drinks.
“Have a seat buddy. What’s on your mind?”
An ice bucket filled with five beers was placed on the table before I could even take a seat.
“Grab a cold one broski, you look like you need one, or five.”
I grabbed a beer and began to explain my theory.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
