R: 45 / I: 116
>Somewhere in the British Countryside
>Two ladies sit at a table, harsh light shining through a large bay window next to it, obscuring their features. At the centre of their table is a chess table, the pieces laid out for the start of a new game.
>One of the ladies picks up her king's pawn, moving it two spaces forward.
"I suppose you've heard about the attack on The Wedge."
>Her opponent responds by moving one of her own pieces.
"Of course, the official stance is that the Meta-Human Alliance did it, but. . ."
>The first lady moves one of her knights forward.
"But?"
>The second lady thinks for a moment, then moves her one of own pieces in response.
"It's all too quiet for them, so either it wasn't someone important, or it was a pretender."
"You say that, but they have hit 21 other holding facilities since then, all across the world, and haven't denied ownership of this attack."
"Ah, but all of those were very open attacks, not like the first one, instead it looks like they're sending a message on how they actually act. . ."
>The first lady nods, then moves the same knight again, placing it by the initial pawn.
"Have any of them attacked there, yet?"
>The second lady brings one of her own knights out to respond.
"Not yet. . ."
"Then why don't we make a bet?"
>The first lady brings out her second knight.
"How do you mean?"
"The usual rules, we each select several candidates to make up a team, send them there, whoever manages to convince her of the worthiness of their cause gets it all."
"And I suppose I will be paying for these candidates?"
"Of course, you know I can't afford to setup up our little dances."
>The second woman leans backwards, sighing and running over the proposal in her head.
"Fine. . ."
"Excellent, it's your move by the way."
>The second woman looks at the chess board and goes to move a piece. . .
[Event] - Sicilian Dragon
>Date: March 15th, 2017>Somewhere in the British Countryside
>Two ladies sit at a table, harsh light shining through a large bay window next to it, obscuring their features. At the centre of their table is a chess table, the pieces laid out for the start of a new game.
>One of the ladies picks up her king's pawn, moving it two spaces forward.
"I suppose you've heard about the attack on The Wedge."
>Her opponent responds by moving one of her own pieces.
"Of course, the official stance is that the Meta-Human Alliance did it, but. . ."
>The first lady moves one of her knights forward.
"But?"
>The second lady thinks for a moment, then moves her one of own pieces in response.
"It's all too quiet for them, so either it wasn't someone important, or it was a pretender."
"You say that, but they have hit 21 other holding facilities since then, all across the world, and haven't denied ownership of this attack."
"Ah, but all of those were very open attacks, not like the first one, instead it looks like they're sending a message on how they actually act. . ."
>The first lady nods, then moves the same knight again, placing it by the initial pawn.
"Have any of them attacked there, yet?"
>The second lady brings one of her own knights out to respond.
"Not yet. . ."
"Then why don't we make a bet?"
>The first lady brings out her second knight.
"How do you mean?"
"The usual rules, we each select several candidates to make up a team, send them there, whoever manages to convince her of the worthiness of their cause gets it all."
"And I suppose I will be paying for these candidates?"
"Of course, you know I can't afford to setup up our little dances."
>The second woman leans backwards, sighing and running over the proposal in her head.
"Fine. . ."
"Excellent, it's your move by the way."
>The second woman looks at the chess board and goes to move a piece. . .
R: 2 / I: 6
>In front of this sight, a young girl with black hair trembles, a ritualistic dagger in her hands, as she trembles, she breathes heavily, the walls of the undercroft moving in and out as she does.
>With one final breath, the girl falls backwards and the undercroft fades away.
—————————————————-
>2017, Prydwen Castle
>Ceridwen wakes up with a start, immediately turning to a table on the side of her bed, on which she can see a small stone with a rune engraved on it, reaching over to it and picking it up, she moves it around in her hand, notincing several cracks on it.
Why do I keep on using you. . ."
>Ceridwen flings the stone at the wall, causing the stone to break apart from the force.
"if you don't bloody work?!"
>The young girl angrily pants for a few seconds, then sighs and calms herself down, and pulls herself out of bed, grabbing some clothes and putting them on.
"Argh. . . never mind, I didn't need the sleep anyway. . ."
>Walking over to her window, Ceridwen opens it, looking out of it for a second before reaching into a pouch on her belt and taking something out, crushing it in her hand and sprinkling it into her eyes, wincing from the irritation.
"Looks like the West stone needs a look today then. . ."
[Event] - Signs & Portents
>A cry of pain rings out through a castle undercroft, echoing against the walls and reverberating out and then back to an isolated chamber where a white-haired woman hangs by a chain, a mix of a dark ichor and blood dripping from her.>In front of this sight, a young girl with black hair trembles, a ritualistic dagger in her hands, as she trembles, she breathes heavily, the walls of the undercroft moving in and out as she does.
>With one final breath, the girl falls backwards and the undercroft fades away.
—————————————————-
>2017, Prydwen Castle
>Ceridwen wakes up with a start, immediately turning to a table on the side of her bed, on which she can see a small stone with a rune engraved on it, reaching over to it and picking it up, she moves it around in her hand, notincing several cracks on it.
Why do I keep on using you. . ."
>Ceridwen flings the stone at the wall, causing the stone to break apart from the force.
"if you don't bloody work?!"
>The young girl angrily pants for a few seconds, then sighs and calms herself down, and pulls herself out of bed, grabbing some clothes and putting them on.
"Argh. . . never mind, I didn't need the sleep anyway. . ."
>Walking over to her window, Ceridwen opens it, looking out of it for a second before reaching into a pouch on her belt and taking something out, crushing it in her hand and sprinkling it into her eyes, wincing from the irritation.
"Looks like the West stone needs a look today then. . ."
R: 36 / I: 159
>Time: 8:00 AM
>Location: Anticosti Island - "The Wedge"
>Situated high up north, at the border of the United States and Canada, is Anticosti Island. The island is formally known as territory placed in the province of Quebec, and has been a relatively unused area for most of its history.
>However, in the 1980s, after the onset of Meta-Humans - circumstances quickly changed with the island. A joint venture between the United States and Canada led to the formation of one of the most reinforced supermax prisons for Meta-Humans in the entire world - "The Wedge".
>As a nigh impenetrable remote outpost, far situated from the rest of the world, "The Wedge" as a prison seemed the ideal holding facility for the most dangerous Meta-Humans in both countries. The facility has around-the-clock patrols of MRD agents; in addition to a whole slew of clinical psychologists, therapists and general practitioners.
>However, the remote facility may be due for an unexpected visit.
————————————————————————————————————-
>Time: 8:30 AM
>Location: - "The Wedge" - Interior
>Inside of the facility, groups of psychologists, therapists and their MRD escorts are quickly walking through the Administrative hub of the facility. The first of 3 core areas of The Wedge, the Administrative hub, serves as a logistics and authorization clearance frontend. All authorized personnel are required to verify both their identities and their assigned visiting periods inside of The Wedge, in order to maximize security.
>In front of the main desk area, a man in an enhanced suit of power armor walks forward - a MRD agent.
"Hey, I'm here for my scheduled check-in, assessment of patient #1008."
>The receptionist at the desk raises an eyebrow for a moment, before saying:
"…..Verification card, please."
>The MRD agent hands a card over from their pouch, waiting for it to be scanned through a complex electronic machine. After a few seconds, and a brief flash of green light from the machine, the receptionist hands the card back to the MRD agent.
"Authorized. You're allowed in, lieutenant."
>Nodding, the MRD agent then walks through, uncharacteristically quickly for a regular inspection.
[Event] - "The Wedge"
>Date: March 10th, 2017>Time: 8:00 AM
>Location: Anticosti Island - "The Wedge"
>Situated high up north, at the border of the United States and Canada, is Anticosti Island. The island is formally known as territory placed in the province of Quebec, and has been a relatively unused area for most of its history.
>However, in the 1980s, after the onset of Meta-Humans - circumstances quickly changed with the island. A joint venture between the United States and Canada led to the formation of one of the most reinforced supermax prisons for Meta-Humans in the entire world - "The Wedge".
>As a nigh impenetrable remote outpost, far situated from the rest of the world, "The Wedge" as a prison seemed the ideal holding facility for the most dangerous Meta-Humans in both countries. The facility has around-the-clock patrols of MRD agents; in addition to a whole slew of clinical psychologists, therapists and general practitioners.
>However, the remote facility may be due for an unexpected visit.
————————————————————————————————————-
>Time: 8:30 AM
>Location: - "The Wedge" - Interior
>Inside of the facility, groups of psychologists, therapists and their MRD escorts are quickly walking through the Administrative hub of the facility. The first of 3 core areas of The Wedge, the Administrative hub, serves as a logistics and authorization clearance frontend. All authorized personnel are required to verify both their identities and their assigned visiting periods inside of The Wedge, in order to maximize security.
>In front of the main desk area, a man in an enhanced suit of power armor walks forward - a MRD agent.
"Hey, I'm here for my scheduled check-in, assessment of patient #1008."
>The receptionist at the desk raises an eyebrow for a moment, before saying:
"…..Verification card, please."
>The MRD agent hands a card over from their pouch, waiting for it to be scanned through a complex electronic machine. After a few seconds, and a brief flash of green light from the machine, the receptionist hands the card back to the MRD agent.
"Authorized. You're allowed in, lieutenant."
>Nodding, the MRD agent then walks through, uncharacteristically quickly for a regular inspection.
R: 58 / I: 107
>Location: Sanctuary City
>Once a day of festivities in Ancient Roman times, the 21st day of February is of little concern for most Americans, just another day in the second month of the year, creating a relatively quiet day.
>In a quiet corner of the city, a teenaged boy talks to a man hidden behind the shadows.
"A-are you sure it'll?"
>The boy looks down at something the man is holding out, a belt of some kind.
"Beyond even your wildest dreams, put it on, try it out."
>The man's voice is distorted by some kind of modulator, further obsfucating his identity.
>Hesitating for a moment, the boy reaches out and takes the belt, carefully putting it on and looking around, smiling awkwardly when he sees a piece of trash on the ground.
>The boy reaches out his hand and points it at the trash.
>After a few seconds, the trash flies towards the boys stomach, disappearing into the thin air just before hitting it.
"Woah, a-and I don't need to pay for this."
"No, and I'll shake on that."
>The man offers out his hand for the boy to shake, and he happily takes it, suddenly pulling it back as he's shocked by something.
"Woah, static, weird! But thanks man!"
>The boy turns around, rushing off to his own business.
"No problem, you've helped me too. . ."
[Part 2] - 101
>Date: February 21st, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City
>Once a day of festivities in Ancient Roman times, the 21st day of February is of little concern for most Americans, just another day in the second month of the year, creating a relatively quiet day.
>In a quiet corner of the city, a teenaged boy talks to a man hidden behind the shadows.
"A-are you sure it'll?"
>The boy looks down at something the man is holding out, a belt of some kind.
"Beyond even your wildest dreams, put it on, try it out."
>The man's voice is distorted by some kind of modulator, further obsfucating his identity.
>Hesitating for a moment, the boy reaches out and takes the belt, carefully putting it on and looking around, smiling awkwardly when he sees a piece of trash on the ground.
>The boy reaches out his hand and points it at the trash.
>After a few seconds, the trash flies towards the boys stomach, disappearing into the thin air just before hitting it.
"Woah, a-and I don't need to pay for this."
"No, and I'll shake on that."
>The man offers out his hand for the boy to shake, and he happily takes it, suddenly pulling it back as he's shocked by something.
"Woah, static, weird! But thanks man!"
>The boy turns around, rushing off to his own business.
"No problem, you've helped me too. . ."
R: 47 / I: 208
>Location: Sanctuary City - Civil District
>Time: 8:00 AM
>Sanctuary City's City Government building is a large, pristine building with multiple levels. Situated behind a large structural blockade of fencing, the building stands as a monument to the city's effective governance and policies. Various MRD patrol units patrol the exterior fencing and gates of the Mayor's building; observation troopers are stationed on the rooftops of nearby buildings.
>Dozens of MRD Hovercraft also surround the building from higher elevations - along with modified APCs and heavy duty vehicles on the ground floor. Somewhat militaristic in presentation, the entire display serves as a secondary reminder of the MRD's militaristic strength and coordination - in addition to being a symbol of the city's fortification efforts.
>Inside of the large building, a series of elaborately designed hallways stretch for dozens of meters - each ornately decorated with gold embroidered paraphernalia and symbols. The symbols represent the various positions of the City's Government - including the Mayoral insignia on the largest door.
>The mayor's office has its door slightly opened, as the distinct voice of a woman can be heard from inside.
"…-dy said that I'll handle it, Mister Barnes. DataDrive's core operations weren't encumbered by the attacks. I have it on good authority that the MRD and local authorities have already swept the perimeter."
>A woman, seemingly in her late 20s is on the phone. Her relatively long auburn hair is surprisingly radiant, almost with a faint glow. As her eyes dart back and forth between a series of large folders on her desk, she carefully picks up and reads through said papers, while on the phone.
"Yes of course. I've already spoken to Lambda Pharmaceuticals as well. They're a point of interest for our potential targets here, and the MRD are already preparing sting operations to catch the perpetrators."
>After another moment, the blonde woman sighs as she then says:
"Yes of course. I understand. I'll speak to you again, after I've gotten more updates on the matter, Mister Barnes. Good day."
>Putting down the phone, the woman then rubs her eyelids in annoyance, muttering under her breath:
"….Ungrateful buffoons."
>After a few seconds, a voice them comes up over the speaker on her desk.
{"Mayor Jackson? Director McIntyre of the MRD has arrived for your meeting."}
>Feeling her body tense up slightly, Mayor Jackson then says:
"….Alright then. Send him in."
>Leaning back in her chair for a moment, the mayor then opens up a nearby bottle of pharmaceutical drugs and takes a pair of them. After having a drink of water in addition, she then regains her composure as she waits for the MRD Director to arrive.
[Event] - "Riposte"
>Date: March 5th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Civil District
>Time: 8:00 AM
>Sanctuary City's City Government building is a large, pristine building with multiple levels. Situated behind a large structural blockade of fencing, the building stands as a monument to the city's effective governance and policies. Various MRD patrol units patrol the exterior fencing and gates of the Mayor's building; observation troopers are stationed on the rooftops of nearby buildings.
>Dozens of MRD Hovercraft also surround the building from higher elevations - along with modified APCs and heavy duty vehicles on the ground floor. Somewhat militaristic in presentation, the entire display serves as a secondary reminder of the MRD's militaristic strength and coordination - in addition to being a symbol of the city's fortification efforts.
>Inside of the large building, a series of elaborately designed hallways stretch for dozens of meters - each ornately decorated with gold embroidered paraphernalia and symbols. The symbols represent the various positions of the City's Government - including the Mayoral insignia on the largest door.
>The mayor's office has its door slightly opened, as the distinct voice of a woman can be heard from inside.
"…-dy said that I'll handle it, Mister Barnes. DataDrive's core operations weren't encumbered by the attacks. I have it on good authority that the MRD and local authorities have already swept the perimeter."
>A woman, seemingly in her late 20s is on the phone. Her relatively long auburn hair is surprisingly radiant, almost with a faint glow. As her eyes dart back and forth between a series of large folders on her desk, she carefully picks up and reads through said papers, while on the phone.
"Yes of course. I've already spoken to Lambda Pharmaceuticals as well. They're a point of interest for our potential targets here, and the MRD are already preparing sting operations to catch the perpetrators."
>After another moment, the blonde woman sighs as she then says:
"Yes of course. I understand. I'll speak to you again, after I've gotten more updates on the matter, Mister Barnes. Good day."
>Putting down the phone, the woman then rubs her eyelids in annoyance, muttering under her breath:
"….Ungrateful buffoons."
>After a few seconds, a voice them comes up over the speaker on her desk.
{"Mayor Jackson? Director McIntyre of the MRD has arrived for your meeting."}
>Feeling her body tense up slightly, Mayor Jackson then says:
"….Alright then. Send him in."
>Leaning back in her chair for a moment, the mayor then opens up a nearby bottle of pharmaceutical drugs and takes a pair of them. After having a drink of water in addition, she then regains her composure as she waits for the MRD Director to arrive.
R: 35 / I: 108
>Location: Another Earth
>Time: N/A
>A version of Sanctuary City exists, contained in a world separate to the known universe. Virtually identical on a macroscopic scale, this world still contains a few notable differences. Arbitrarily designated "Earth-1", in comparison to the known universe, this world is seemingly more extravagant in scope. More powerful Meta-Humans exist, a more volatile, yet orderly world all the same. In this universe, carefully bordering with the known universe - a massive spatial-temporal event begins to coalesce around the universal space….
>Date: March 3rd, 2017
>Location: Earth-1 - Sanctuary City
>Time - 10:00 AM
>The pristine mega structure of a city stands, serving as a monument towards Meta-Human advancement in the larger country and world. Situated in the same place as its known counterpart, Earth-1's version of Sanctuary City is massive, sprawling with far more advanced structures and technological integrations. Futuristic machines and devices are stretched out far across the normal city scape, with teleporting rail stations and levitating buildings making up the core structural components.
>As people walk their pets, check their holographic projections from their phones, and remotely talk to each other through radio wave interfaces in their ears - warning notifications begin to appear across the city. Large red holographic text signs appear, surrounding multiple areas of the outstretched city, each with glowing hazard signs. The holograms read:
["WARNING. SUBSPATIAL ANOMALY DETECTED. SAFETY PROTOCOLS ENGAGED"]
>Just then, large glowing fissures begin to appear across the sky - ripping open with violent force to reveal large surges of glowing energy passing through. Appearing within the barrier field of the city, the large fissures continue seeping open glowing pools of supernatural energy - which rapidly coalesce and turn into the shape of large stone golems. As the mineral constructions crash into the ground, they generate a significant amount of force - beginning to rupture the city. The monsters shatter through fractal energy bridges and platforms, causing the hard light projections to fall to the ground below.
>As the golems begin attacking machinery nearby, the resulting damage begins to cause massive explosions - damaging nearby integrated power lines in the city's streets and propagating a chain of damage across the city's downtown area.
[Event] - "Contiguity"
>Date: N/A>Location: Another Earth
>Time: N/A
>A version of Sanctuary City exists, contained in a world separate to the known universe. Virtually identical on a macroscopic scale, this world still contains a few notable differences. Arbitrarily designated "Earth-1", in comparison to the known universe, this world is seemingly more extravagant in scope. More powerful Meta-Humans exist, a more volatile, yet orderly world all the same. In this universe, carefully bordering with the known universe - a massive spatial-temporal event begins to coalesce around the universal space….
>Date: March 3rd, 2017
>Location: Earth-1 - Sanctuary City
>Time - 10:00 AM
>The pristine mega structure of a city stands, serving as a monument towards Meta-Human advancement in the larger country and world. Situated in the same place as its known counterpart, Earth-1's version of Sanctuary City is massive, sprawling with far more advanced structures and technological integrations. Futuristic machines and devices are stretched out far across the normal city scape, with teleporting rail stations and levitating buildings making up the core structural components.
>As people walk their pets, check their holographic projections from their phones, and remotely talk to each other through radio wave interfaces in their ears - warning notifications begin to appear across the city. Large red holographic text signs appear, surrounding multiple areas of the outstretched city, each with glowing hazard signs. The holograms read:
["WARNING. SUBSPATIAL ANOMALY DETECTED. SAFETY PROTOCOLS ENGAGED"]
>Just then, large glowing fissures begin to appear across the sky - ripping open with violent force to reveal large surges of glowing energy passing through. Appearing within the barrier field of the city, the large fissures continue seeping open glowing pools of supernatural energy - which rapidly coalesce and turn into the shape of large stone golems. As the mineral constructions crash into the ground, they generate a significant amount of force - beginning to rupture the city. The monsters shatter through fractal energy bridges and platforms, causing the hard light projections to fall to the ground below.
>As the golems begin attacking machinery nearby, the resulting damage begins to cause massive explosions - damaging nearby integrated power lines in the city's streets and propagating a chain of damage across the city's downtown area.
R: 25 / I: 54
>The Scottish Highlands
>It was a cold winter, that year, cold enough to freeze the lakes. No weather for a child to be out on the highlands.
>Yet, at least one was, a young boy, his thick clothing doing all it could to keep the cold out. A task made more difficult by his apparent decision to display his blonde hair to any that could see him. Running through the snow, his thin, lithe form betrays little of the lawyer he would grow up to be. Yet still, despite his young age, the boy's looks appear almost noble, like a child out of story for children, a future knight.
>The boy runs, stopping when he sees a pillar of smoke rising from the distance. Blinking, he changes directions and runs over to it. . .
—————————————————-
>The boy arrives at his destination, a few scuffs and scrapes revealing his trip over wasn't entirely without incident, and finds the source of the smoke.
>A pile of rubble, smoldering from what was clearly a massive blaze, fills an area that indicates that it was once a barn. In the centre, a young girl sits, her knees brought up to her chest to keep out the outside world. Matted white hair drapes over her body, with ash turning what would normally match the snow into a grey mess. Sitting in a tree by the remains is a young boy, similar in age to the blonde boy and the girl, a book in his hands.
>As the blonde boy approaches, the boy in the tree scoffs, flicking a page in his book.
>The noise brings the blonde's attention to the tree, causing him to look up.
"What happened?"
"Ask her."
>The boy in the tree nudges his head to the girl.
"Don't you care?"
"Why should I?"
"She could be hurt!"
"Isn't."
"Well. . . she. . ."
>The blonde stops talking, unable to come up with a response.
"Go talk to her if you care."
"I will!"
>The blonde boy indignantly marches across the rubble, the flames not even coming close to touching him as he makes his way over to the girl. Once he's reached her, he stands tall, as tall as a boy his age can look anyway, and loudly steps around to announce his presence.
"What happened?"
>The girl looks up for a moment, watching the boy with tear-stained eyes.
"I don't wanna talk."
>Her voice is buried in a thick accent, betraying her roots in the region.
"Well I'm not leaving!"
>The blonde boy keeps on stomping around.
"Not leaving! Not leaving!"
>A flame bursts up in the boy's path, nearly hitting him. Watching it for a second, the boy stares it in wonder.
"Woooaaah. . . cool!"
>He stomps back over to the girl.
"Did you do that? That's super cool! I can only make a little flame like this!"
>The boy holds out his hand and lifts a finger up, staring at it intensely for a moment before a little flicker of fire emerges from it, the warmth of it touching the girl's head.
>The girl looks up at the flame, blinking.
"It's not cool like yours though! I bet you could do loads of stuff with yours!"
"Iwas. . . Iwas. . . trying to get fire wood for gra. . ."
>The flames throughout the rubble die down.
"Oh cool! Want me to help with that? I'm strong!"
>The blonde boy flexes his spindly arms, earning a giggle from the girl.
"No point. . . dad's gonna kill me when I get back. . ."
>The blonde boy frowns.
"Oh. . . well. . . wanna play before he gets back?"
"Why?"
"More fun than moping around."
>The blonde boy offers out his hand for the girl to take.
"I'm Leo!"
>In the distance, the boy in the tree rolls his eyes.
>The girl looks at the hand for a second, and then carefully goes to take it.
"I'm. . ."
[Event] - A World in a Grain of Sand
>1995>The Scottish Highlands
>It was a cold winter, that year, cold enough to freeze the lakes. No weather for a child to be out on the highlands.
>Yet, at least one was, a young boy, his thick clothing doing all it could to keep the cold out. A task made more difficult by his apparent decision to display his blonde hair to any that could see him. Running through the snow, his thin, lithe form betrays little of the lawyer he would grow up to be. Yet still, despite his young age, the boy's looks appear almost noble, like a child out of story for children, a future knight.
>The boy runs, stopping when he sees a pillar of smoke rising from the distance. Blinking, he changes directions and runs over to it. . .
—————————————————-
>The boy arrives at his destination, a few scuffs and scrapes revealing his trip over wasn't entirely without incident, and finds the source of the smoke.
>A pile of rubble, smoldering from what was clearly a massive blaze, fills an area that indicates that it was once a barn. In the centre, a young girl sits, her knees brought up to her chest to keep out the outside world. Matted white hair drapes over her body, with ash turning what would normally match the snow into a grey mess. Sitting in a tree by the remains is a young boy, similar in age to the blonde boy and the girl, a book in his hands.
>As the blonde boy approaches, the boy in the tree scoffs, flicking a page in his book.
>The noise brings the blonde's attention to the tree, causing him to look up.
"What happened?"
"Ask her."
>The boy in the tree nudges his head to the girl.
"Don't you care?"
"Why should I?"
"She could be hurt!"
"Isn't."
"Well. . . she. . ."
>The blonde stops talking, unable to come up with a response.
"Go talk to her if you care."
"I will!"
>The blonde boy indignantly marches across the rubble, the flames not even coming close to touching him as he makes his way over to the girl. Once he's reached her, he stands tall, as tall as a boy his age can look anyway, and loudly steps around to announce his presence.
"What happened?"
>The girl looks up for a moment, watching the boy with tear-stained eyes.
"I don't wanna talk."
>Her voice is buried in a thick accent, betraying her roots in the region.
"Well I'm not leaving!"
>The blonde boy keeps on stomping around.
"Not leaving! Not leaving!"
>A flame bursts up in the boy's path, nearly hitting him. Watching it for a second, the boy stares it in wonder.
"Woooaaah. . . cool!"
>He stomps back over to the girl.
"Did you do that? That's super cool! I can only make a little flame like this!"
>The boy holds out his hand and lifts a finger up, staring at it intensely for a moment before a little flicker of fire emerges from it, the warmth of it touching the girl's head.
>The girl looks up at the flame, blinking.
"It's not cool like yours though! I bet you could do loads of stuff with yours!"
"Iwas. . . Iwas. . . trying to get fire wood for gra. . ."
>The flames throughout the rubble die down.
"Oh cool! Want me to help with that? I'm strong!"
>The blonde boy flexes his spindly arms, earning a giggle from the girl.
"No point. . . dad's gonna kill me when I get back. . ."
>The blonde boy frowns.
"Oh. . . well. . . wanna play before he gets back?"
"Why?"
"More fun than moping around."
>The blonde boy offers out his hand for the girl to take.
"I'm Leo!"
>In the distance, the boy in the tree rolls his eyes.
>The girl looks at the hand for a second, and then carefully goes to take it.
"I'm. . ."
R: 33 / I: 147
>Time: 11:00 PM
>Location - Sanctuary City - Industrial District
>It's near midnight within the main construction and manufacturing hub of the city, with various corporate buildings closing up secondary operations. As most personnel leave their areas of working, turning off machinery and closing down sections of buildings - a sleek, feminine figure swings through the air.
"Right about….now!"
>Said figure then detaches from a thin line at her fingertips - landing on the side of a building. Peering through the window of the building she's attached to, she then takes a small device out from her think spandex outfit - a small cut opening housing the device.
"There we are…."
>Tapping the device against the glass, the woman waits, before a soft rumbling sound begins penetrating the sides of the office. Blue electrical sparks then crackle from the machine, as a bright blue pulse moves through the window - frying all of the electronics inside. Looking smug, the woman then says:
"Easy as pie. Now to plant the evidence inside…."
>The device, an EMP to short circuit the machinery, leaves the woman able to break and enter. Vaulting carefully, she then makes a figure 8 motion as she flips up into the air - attaching a web to the window as she smashes through it - moving into the building. After landing, she then states:
"Time to get to work…."
>She then begins walking out of the office building and towards the larger, futuristic hallways of the building complex.
[Event] - "Social Dynamics"
>Date: March 2nd, 2017>Time: 11:00 PM
>Location - Sanctuary City - Industrial District
>It's near midnight within the main construction and manufacturing hub of the city, with various corporate buildings closing up secondary operations. As most personnel leave their areas of working, turning off machinery and closing down sections of buildings - a sleek, feminine figure swings through the air.
"Right about….now!"
>Said figure then detaches from a thin line at her fingertips - landing on the side of a building. Peering through the window of the building she's attached to, she then takes a small device out from her think spandex outfit - a small cut opening housing the device.
"There we are…."
>Tapping the device against the glass, the woman waits, before a soft rumbling sound begins penetrating the sides of the office. Blue electrical sparks then crackle from the machine, as a bright blue pulse moves through the window - frying all of the electronics inside. Looking smug, the woman then says:
"Easy as pie. Now to plant the evidence inside…."
>The device, an EMP to short circuit the machinery, leaves the woman able to break and enter. Vaulting carefully, she then makes a figure 8 motion as she flips up into the air - attaching a web to the window as she smashes through it - moving into the building. After landing, she then states:
"Time to get to work…."
>She then begins walking out of the office building and towards the larger, futuristic hallways of the building complex.
R: 36 / I: 120
>The dimension of Alteria is a unique dimension existing in a different phase state - and separate from that of the main universe.
>As a separate dimension in another world, Alteria is home to the planet Machina - its analogue to Earth.
>Machina is a large, technologically advanced "hypercity" of a world - filled with various technological devices and equipment powered by mana. The capital city of Machina is called Concentus.
>As the capital city of the entire planet, Concentus is home to an entire race of beings, very similar to humans. These human adjacent beings are called the Formiacs, and the best among them are chosen to become Paragons - technomagical warriors and hunters, trained to fight off the supernatural monsters native to their dimension.
>Monsters like the beings terrorizing the planet right now.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
>Date: February 28th, 2017 [Relative to Earth]
>Time: 10:00 AM [Relative to Earth, Sanctuary City]
>Location: Machina - Concentus City
"Move! More of them are coming!"
>A group of Paragons quickly glide through the large mechanistic structures that make up the refinement district of the city. Large power lines of mana and magical energy are strewn out across the structural apparatus, pumping vast quantities of magical energy and mana particles through the city. As the leylines of magic are sustained by the technological masterworks, the Paragons continue their movement patterns.
"Primus! Prepare the distortion incantation! The creature are magnifying!"
>The leader of the trio of Paragons, a bulky armored figure clad in red, aims a mana powered rifle at various light figures converging on their location. As the figures are hit by the supernatural bullets, they're blasted into miniature chunks, quickly reforming into more copies of themselves.
>The gold clad armored figure begins making a series of quick hand gestures, consolidating magical energy stored in their body - as they then unleash a massive fractal distortion that captures the swarm of figures - enveloping most of them and wrapping them into nothingness, leaving normal space in their wake.
"That should hold the majority of them! I'll need a few minutes to charge another distortion field!"
>The third and final figure, draped in sapphire blue armor with a hood and a cape, states:
"…So where did you send them, Primus? We're running out of options."
>Scowling behind his helmet, Primus then says:
"If you needed to know, Magnus. I've created a region of null space that can hold them together for now. Pocket dimension of sorts. But if they destabilize and cause a chain reaction, the energy release they generate will-"
"Rip open the fissure and set them loose again, we're aware."
>The leader in red armor states, as all three figures converge on their destination.
"…Of course, Maximus. But I trust your judgment in having me use the majority of my energy to slow them down."
[Event] - "Conversion Point"
>Location: Alteria - Prism World>The dimension of Alteria is a unique dimension existing in a different phase state - and separate from that of the main universe.
>As a separate dimension in another world, Alteria is home to the planet Machina - its analogue to Earth.
>Machina is a large, technologically advanced "hypercity" of a world - filled with various technological devices and equipment powered by mana. The capital city of Machina is called Concentus.
>As the capital city of the entire planet, Concentus is home to an entire race of beings, very similar to humans. These human adjacent beings are called the Formiacs, and the best among them are chosen to become Paragons - technomagical warriors and hunters, trained to fight off the supernatural monsters native to their dimension.
>Monsters like the beings terrorizing the planet right now.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
>Date: February 28th, 2017 [Relative to Earth]
>Time: 10:00 AM [Relative to Earth, Sanctuary City]
>Location: Machina - Concentus City
"Move! More of them are coming!"
>A group of Paragons quickly glide through the large mechanistic structures that make up the refinement district of the city. Large power lines of mana and magical energy are strewn out across the structural apparatus, pumping vast quantities of magical energy and mana particles through the city. As the leylines of magic are sustained by the technological masterworks, the Paragons continue their movement patterns.
"Primus! Prepare the distortion incantation! The creature are magnifying!"
>The leader of the trio of Paragons, a bulky armored figure clad in red, aims a mana powered rifle at various light figures converging on their location. As the figures are hit by the supernatural bullets, they're blasted into miniature chunks, quickly reforming into more copies of themselves.
>The gold clad armored figure begins making a series of quick hand gestures, consolidating magical energy stored in their body - as they then unleash a massive fractal distortion that captures the swarm of figures - enveloping most of them and wrapping them into nothingness, leaving normal space in their wake.
"That should hold the majority of them! I'll need a few minutes to charge another distortion field!"
>The third and final figure, draped in sapphire blue armor with a hood and a cape, states:
"…So where did you send them, Primus? We're running out of options."
>Scowling behind his helmet, Primus then says:
"If you needed to know, Magnus. I've created a region of null space that can hold them together for now. Pocket dimension of sorts. But if they destabilize and cause a chain reaction, the energy release they generate will-"
"Rip open the fissure and set them loose again, we're aware."
>The leader in red armor states, as all three figures converge on their destination.
"…Of course, Maximus. But I trust your judgment in having me use the majority of my energy to slow them down."
R: 3 / I: 9
"This city is sick, rotting from the inside as parasites from above and below suck it dry, causing the wounds to fester, to burst, leaving behind cancerous growths that weaken its fiber even more.
The people are blind to this, blind to the depravity hidden below the surface, but I, I am aware, and I know now how to cleanse this city. The answer is so simple now that I see it. . .
The city needs a butcher, someone willing to cut off the tumors, and I am that person, I have been chosen.
My friend comes to me at night, they chose me because I understand now, because my eyes have been opened. Because I have seen the message of my counterpart in the sanctuary.
One day, I hope that my work will be complete, but it is not, so my righteous task continues. . ."
[Solo] - Albatross
>Personal Log, 03.01.17:"This city is sick, rotting from the inside as parasites from above and below suck it dry, causing the wounds to fester, to burst, leaving behind cancerous growths that weaken its fiber even more.
The people are blind to this, blind to the depravity hidden below the surface, but I, I am aware, and I know now how to cleanse this city. The answer is so simple now that I see it. . .
The city needs a butcher, someone willing to cut off the tumors, and I am that person, I have been chosen.
My friend comes to me at night, they chose me because I understand now, because my eyes have been opened. Because I have seen the message of my counterpart in the sanctuary.
One day, I hope that my work will be complete, but it is not, so my righteous task continues. . ."
R: 16 / I: 59
>Location: Western Europe - Unknown Forest Laboratory
>Time: 10:00 AM [Relative]
>Distant sirens blare as a research facility goes into lockdown. As more lights blare, research personnel inside of the facility begin frantically running towards exits. Cursing to themselves, the researchers hurridly look at their documents, still cursing to themselves.
"Shit! We're running out of time. The structural blueprint hasn't been fully decoded!"
>A researcher says to themselves, quickly barreling around the nearest hallway while continuing to talk into their phone.
"I know! I know! But we haven't figured out the proper sequencing method! We don't know if the program can fully complete the process! This is biological code! Not some random program! It could take decades-"
>The researcher is then knocked back by a violent explosion, sent spiraling across the room and knocked to the floor - spiraling across the ground. Damaged by the force of the explosion, the researcher can feel a ruptured rib cage, and the searing pain of a pinched nerve in his lung. Reeling from the pain, he looks up, with hazy vision slowly making out a blurry figure in the distance - at the edge of the hallway.
"….What the…."
>At the end of the hallway is an armored figure, clad in midnight black armor and plating. A glowing red visor pulsates light from their body as he walks to a nearby scientist on the ground. Watching as the scientist panics and slowly begins easing away from the figure - the damaged researcher can only look on in horror - as the armored figure reaches down and snaps the scientist's neck.
{"Oh God! He killed him!"}
[Event] - "Recombinant"
>Date: March 10th, 2017>Location: Western Europe - Unknown Forest Laboratory
>Time: 10:00 AM [Relative]
>Distant sirens blare as a research facility goes into lockdown. As more lights blare, research personnel inside of the facility begin frantically running towards exits. Cursing to themselves, the researchers hurridly look at their documents, still cursing to themselves.
"Shit! We're running out of time. The structural blueprint hasn't been fully decoded!"
>A researcher says to themselves, quickly barreling around the nearest hallway while continuing to talk into their phone.
"I know! I know! But we haven't figured out the proper sequencing method! We don't know if the program can fully complete the process! This is biological code! Not some random program! It could take decades-"
>The researcher is then knocked back by a violent explosion, sent spiraling across the room and knocked to the floor - spiraling across the ground. Damaged by the force of the explosion, the researcher can feel a ruptured rib cage, and the searing pain of a pinched nerve in his lung. Reeling from the pain, he looks up, with hazy vision slowly making out a blurry figure in the distance - at the edge of the hallway.
"….What the…."
>At the end of the hallway is an armored figure, clad in midnight black armor and plating. A glowing red visor pulsates light from their body as he walks to a nearby scientist on the ground. Watching as the scientist panics and slowly begins easing away from the figure - the damaged researcher can only look on in horror - as the armored figure reaches down and snaps the scientist's neck.
{"Oh God! He killed him!"}
R: 12 / I: 30
>Location: Sanctuary City
>The bustling streets of Sanctuary City are absolutely full, as is typical of a Friday evening. Near bumper to bumper traffic, and packed sidewalks are a common during this time as everyone rushes to eat, drink or party the week's worries away.
>A group of young looking men move through the packed streets, rudely bumping through anyone in their way while they laugh to themselves. The members of the group itself appear fairly typical, non really standing out appearance wise - save for one individual, who has an almost pinkish shade of red hair.
"I'm tellin' you man."
>One of the more plain looking guys places his elbow on the red haired man's shoulder.
"This place is the shit. I can't go anywhere else anymore. It's just too good."
>The red haired man smiles.
"Yeah. You've been talking about it non stop about it all week. Hopefully it lives up to the hype."
>Arriving at their destination, the first thing the group sees is a massive line, as well as a giant neon sign saying "The Star Light Lounge".
"Shit. Look at the size of that line. It'll be sunrise by the time we get to the doors."
>The group curses amongst themselves thinking of what to do. Suddenly, a guy in the back says:
"Hey! Michael! Think you can do something about it?"
>The red haired man turns to look at his group mate.
"What? Like cause a distraction so we can slip in?"
"Yeah!"
>Michael thinks about it for a few moments before shrugging.
"Yeah, ok."
[Event] - "Chaos"
>Date: March 3rd, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City
>The bustling streets of Sanctuary City are absolutely full, as is typical of a Friday evening. Near bumper to bumper traffic, and packed sidewalks are a common during this time as everyone rushes to eat, drink or party the week's worries away.
>A group of young looking men move through the packed streets, rudely bumping through anyone in their way while they laugh to themselves. The members of the group itself appear fairly typical, non really standing out appearance wise - save for one individual, who has an almost pinkish shade of red hair.
"I'm tellin' you man."
>One of the more plain looking guys places his elbow on the red haired man's shoulder.
"This place is the shit. I can't go anywhere else anymore. It's just too good."
>The red haired man smiles.
"Yeah. You've been talking about it non stop about it all week. Hopefully it lives up to the hype."
>Arriving at their destination, the first thing the group sees is a massive line, as well as a giant neon sign saying "The Star Light Lounge".
"Shit. Look at the size of that line. It'll be sunrise by the time we get to the doors."
>The group curses amongst themselves thinking of what to do. Suddenly, a guy in the back says:
"Hey! Michael! Think you can do something about it?"
>The red haired man turns to look at his group mate.
"What? Like cause a distraction so we can slip in?"
"Yeah!"
>Michael thinks about it for a few moments before shrugging.
"Yeah, ok."
R: 8 / I: 19
>Location: Sanctuary City
>Valentine's Day, a day of celebration for couples. . .
>In the evening, at least, before everyone finishes work, however, Valentine's Day is a day like any other, people go about their work as if the day was just the same as every other day.
>Although, perhaps, with a bit of extra cheer in their hearts.
>This nature of a day like any other day is reflected in the movement of Sanctuary City itself, the ebb and flow of the traffic undisturbed by simple date like "February 14th".
>Despite being loud, the sound of it all is peaceful, in its own way. . .
>And then, an alarm goes off.
[Part 1] - 72
>Date: February 14th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City
>Valentine's Day, a day of celebration for couples. . .
>In the evening, at least, before everyone finishes work, however, Valentine's Day is a day like any other, people go about their work as if the day was just the same as every other day.
>Although, perhaps, with a bit of extra cheer in their hearts.
>This nature of a day like any other day is reflected in the movement of Sanctuary City itself, the ebb and flow of the traffic undisturbed by simple date like "February 14th".
>Despite being loud, the sound of it all is peaceful, in its own way. . .
>And then, an alarm goes off.
R: 19 / I: 79
>Location: Paradise City - Southwestern United States
>Time: 11:00 AM
>A large, coastline city, situated off of the Californian coast - Paradise City is the 3rd of the 5 big "Core Cities" that house Meta-Humans in the United States. Created as a secondary failsafe in the event that Sanctuary City reached its peak carrying capacity - Paradise City remains a secondary hub for Meta-Human activity on the West Coast.
>The city itself is a series of spread out, island-like structures; each connected with a series of pneumatically powered bridges and rail systems. Hovercraft are licensed in the city, as large futuristic structures carefully gleam across the skies. Various hovering monorail systems move across the city's structures as well - contrasting against the glistening waters below.
>A loud humming sound can be heard in the distance, roaring with power as it disrupts the serene and calm air space. Rushing through the air - a large metallic apparatus moves across the clouds at high velocities. Exceeding the speed of sound, the large object slowly begins rotating on its side, its fins guiding its movement.
>The missile's trajectory is aimed squarely at Paradise City's center, directly surrounding the various buildings and skyscrapers that make up the Downtown area of the city. However before the missile can begin its downward arcing descent, a pair of bright red lasers pierce the clouds behind the missile - cutting it in half. Searing plasma scorch marks can be seen from the missile as smoke billows from the metallic chamber, the internal contents of the missile burning up in the air before cooling down in the waters below.
>Then a figure in black and red, a cape billowing behind them, quickly rushes to the clouds, hovering in mid-air as they look around.
"That's the last of them. Now I just need to find Energon…."
>Hyperia, hovering in the air while maintaining a strong posture, looks around the area carefully. Scanning the area below with her eyes, she begins to rapidly parse between the vehicles and people below. After a few seconds, she then states:
"There you are."
>In a blink, Hyperia then disappears, a trail of bright red light following in her wake…..
[Event] - "Terminal Velocity"
>Date: March 1st, 2017>Location: Paradise City - Southwestern United States
>Time: 11:00 AM
>A large, coastline city, situated off of the Californian coast - Paradise City is the 3rd of the 5 big "Core Cities" that house Meta-Humans in the United States. Created as a secondary failsafe in the event that Sanctuary City reached its peak carrying capacity - Paradise City remains a secondary hub for Meta-Human activity on the West Coast.
>The city itself is a series of spread out, island-like structures; each connected with a series of pneumatically powered bridges and rail systems. Hovercraft are licensed in the city, as large futuristic structures carefully gleam across the skies. Various hovering monorail systems move across the city's structures as well - contrasting against the glistening waters below.
>A loud humming sound can be heard in the distance, roaring with power as it disrupts the serene and calm air space. Rushing through the air - a large metallic apparatus moves across the clouds at high velocities. Exceeding the speed of sound, the large object slowly begins rotating on its side, its fins guiding its movement.
>The missile's trajectory is aimed squarely at Paradise City's center, directly surrounding the various buildings and skyscrapers that make up the Downtown area of the city. However before the missile can begin its downward arcing descent, a pair of bright red lasers pierce the clouds behind the missile - cutting it in half. Searing plasma scorch marks can be seen from the missile as smoke billows from the metallic chamber, the internal contents of the missile burning up in the air before cooling down in the waters below.
>Then a figure in black and red, a cape billowing behind them, quickly rushes to the clouds, hovering in mid-air as they look around.
"That's the last of them. Now I just need to find Energon…."
>Hyperia, hovering in the air while maintaining a strong posture, looks around the area carefully. Scanning the area below with her eyes, she begins to rapidly parse between the vehicles and people below. After a few seconds, she then states:
"There you are."
>In a blink, Hyperia then disappears, a trail of bright red light following in her wake…..
R: 68 / I: 106
>In an emerald land, an after-image of what an isle once was, a lone castle sits, with timeless walls that match the feeling of separation of the area. Above this castle that was and never was, a distortion sits within the sky, calmly ebbing and flowing, a single tendril reaching from it to the castle below.
>On this day, the castle is busy, far busier than it appears to be used to, people of various races, cultures, and creeds are gathered within the main courtyard, their shouts and arguments making them look more like a mob than a gathering. Looking over them, a man with long black hair stands over the gate, his eyes following their movements carefully, taking in everything that happens. . .
>On the opposite side of the courtyard, another black-haired man stands, trying to calm the crowd down.
"Please. . . please. . . we understand your issues, this conclave would not have been called if we did not understand the weight of this situation, but you must remain. . ."
>A voice calls out from the crowd.
"The Prydwens promised us peace as long as we followed the statute of secrecy, these signs show they have failed!"
"The only thing that could do that is on the other side of the rift! Why have you betrayed us?!"
>The man raises his hands to try and quieten the people down.
"The Prydwens have not betrayed any of you. . ."
"The Hydes said the same, how can we-!"
>The crowd suddenly quietens down as a woman dressed in white emerges from the castle, her hair matching her robes. With a presence that indicates she was once much more powerful, she walks slowly and with a certain weakness in her steps.
"The Rift remains closed, I have ensured it myself. . ."
>Her voice is wispy, hollowed, yet it still carries enough volume to cut over the crowd.
>As she speaks, the man walks over to her, a look of concern in his eyes, and moves himself into a position to catch her at any time.
"But we have much to discuss, please, join us inside. . ."
>The woman slowly turns and walks back into the castle, a door opening up below in the courtyard to allow the others to enter as well.
>From his perch, the man watching the events shrugs, then walks away. . .
[Event] - The Conclave
>June 5th, 2000>In an emerald land, an after-image of what an isle once was, a lone castle sits, with timeless walls that match the feeling of separation of the area. Above this castle that was and never was, a distortion sits within the sky, calmly ebbing and flowing, a single tendril reaching from it to the castle below.
>On this day, the castle is busy, far busier than it appears to be used to, people of various races, cultures, and creeds are gathered within the main courtyard, their shouts and arguments making them look more like a mob than a gathering. Looking over them, a man with long black hair stands over the gate, his eyes following their movements carefully, taking in everything that happens. . .
>On the opposite side of the courtyard, another black-haired man stands, trying to calm the crowd down.
"Please. . . please. . . we understand your issues, this conclave would not have been called if we did not understand the weight of this situation, but you must remain. . ."
>A voice calls out from the crowd.
"The Prydwens promised us peace as long as we followed the statute of secrecy, these signs show they have failed!"
"The only thing that could do that is on the other side of the rift! Why have you betrayed us?!"
>The man raises his hands to try and quieten the people down.
"The Prydwens have not betrayed any of you. . ."
"The Hydes said the same, how can we-!"
>The crowd suddenly quietens down as a woman dressed in white emerges from the castle, her hair matching her robes. With a presence that indicates she was once much more powerful, she walks slowly and with a certain weakness in her steps.
"The Rift remains closed, I have ensured it myself. . ."
>Her voice is wispy, hollowed, yet it still carries enough volume to cut over the crowd.
>As she speaks, the man walks over to her, a look of concern in his eyes, and moves himself into a position to catch her at any time.
"But we have much to discuss, please, join us inside. . ."
>The woman slowly turns and walks back into the castle, a door opening up below in the courtyard to allow the others to enter as well.
>From his perch, the man watching the events shrugs, then walks away. . .
R: 17 / I: 63
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 9:00 AM
>Smoke flares up from a series of skyscrapers - with panicked civilians running away in terror. Chunks of debris fall to the floor as the UP Building continues to burn thanks to a ferocious and raging fire.
"Someone call the MRD!"
"It's the Breakers again! Everybody run!"
>As panicked workers mix into the mass of evacuating civilians - the figures of armored Meta-Humans jump into a modified Hovercraft - and begin flying away.
>The Breakers - the hired gun Meta-Human mercenaries of the city, carry a set of briefcases with them. In the front seat. Fracture tries to open one of the briefcases and scowls. A bright shock surges from the numerical lock - stunning him briefly. As he yelps in pain, he then says:
"Shit! The case is fit with security measures! We're gonna have to drop it off for the client to open instead!"
>Aquarius, sitting in the passenger seat, says:
"How much time until we get to the drop off point? I'd say we've got five minutes until some vigilante goon gets the drop on us."
>CopyCat perks up, her eyes narrowing as she states:
"We better not be going into Autonaut territory. Maniacs will rip us apart with their vehicles. And Fracture?"
>Fracture looks up at CopyCat, clearly annoyed.
"What?!"
>CopyCat narrows her eyes:
"We're taking a big risk carrying this shit. Especially when we're on the MRD's radar for that Sacrament chick. That score better be seven digits or higher."
>Fracture rolls his eyes and sits back up front, looking at Capgras who handles the driving.
"We get the money and buy the manpower we need to get the hell out of this city. It was a bad idea coming here, and we've put a target on our backs like you said. So I'm gonna rectify the situation and get us the fuck outta here. Happy now?"
[Event] - "Course Correction"
>Date: February 25th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 9:00 AM
>Smoke flares up from a series of skyscrapers - with panicked civilians running away in terror. Chunks of debris fall to the floor as the UP Building continues to burn thanks to a ferocious and raging fire.
"Someone call the MRD!"
"It's the Breakers again! Everybody run!"
>As panicked workers mix into the mass of evacuating civilians - the figures of armored Meta-Humans jump into a modified Hovercraft - and begin flying away.
>The Breakers - the hired gun Meta-Human mercenaries of the city, carry a set of briefcases with them. In the front seat. Fracture tries to open one of the briefcases and scowls. A bright shock surges from the numerical lock - stunning him briefly. As he yelps in pain, he then says:
"Shit! The case is fit with security measures! We're gonna have to drop it off for the client to open instead!"
>Aquarius, sitting in the passenger seat, says:
"How much time until we get to the drop off point? I'd say we've got five minutes until some vigilante goon gets the drop on us."
>CopyCat perks up, her eyes narrowing as she states:
"We better not be going into Autonaut territory. Maniacs will rip us apart with their vehicles. And Fracture?"
>Fracture looks up at CopyCat, clearly annoyed.
"What?!"
>CopyCat narrows her eyes:
"We're taking a big risk carrying this shit. Especially when we're on the MRD's radar for that Sacrament chick. That score better be seven digits or higher."
>Fracture rolls his eyes and sits back up front, looking at Capgras who handles the driving.
"We get the money and buy the manpower we need to get the hell out of this city. It was a bad idea coming here, and we've put a target on our backs like you said. So I'm gonna rectify the situation and get us the fuck outta here. Happy now?"
R: 36 / I: 107
>Location: Unknown
>Time: 11:30 AM
>The sounds of clicking and tapping fill the room, bouncing and echoing off the sterile, colorless floors and walls of the room. Being a lab, the room is full of various equipment and computers, most of which appearing ahead of their time for one reason or another.
>Near-by, a pair of young children - one a blonde boy and the other a reddish-brown haired girl sit next to each other on a mostly cleared off counter top.
"Can we get up now?"
>The boy looks at a tall, blonde man in a lab coat typing away at a computer. Without giving the children so much of a glance, he sternly replies:
"No."
"But-"
"No. We have several tests to work through today. So you will remain there, while I finish preparing."
>Both children let out audible groans. Once again, the room goes silent. With only the sound of clacking keys being heard.
>It stays like this, for several minutes - before finally the girl speaks up this time:
"Daddy-"
"Father."
"F-Father. How much longer?"
>Now appearing visibly frustrated, the man stops typing - letting out a sigh as he pinches his brow. He mumbles:
"Damn you Monica. They're like this because of you."
>He turns to look at the girl, causing her to nervously real back slightly. She averts her eyes, trying to avoid his stern gaze.
"If either of you bothers me with that question again, I-"
>The man suddenly stops, interrupted as he hears a knock coming from behind him.
[Event] - "Odyssey"
>Date: June 1st, 2000>Location: Unknown
>Time: 11:30 AM
>The sounds of clicking and tapping fill the room, bouncing and echoing off the sterile, colorless floors and walls of the room. Being a lab, the room is full of various equipment and computers, most of which appearing ahead of their time for one reason or another.
>Near-by, a pair of young children - one a blonde boy and the other a reddish-brown haired girl sit next to each other on a mostly cleared off counter top.
"Can we get up now?"
>The boy looks at a tall, blonde man in a lab coat typing away at a computer. Without giving the children so much of a glance, he sternly replies:
"No."
"But-"
"No. We have several tests to work through today. So you will remain there, while I finish preparing."
>Both children let out audible groans. Once again, the room goes silent. With only the sound of clacking keys being heard.
>It stays like this, for several minutes - before finally the girl speaks up this time:
"Daddy-"
"Father."
"F-Father. How much longer?"
>Now appearing visibly frustrated, the man stops typing - letting out a sigh as he pinches his brow. He mumbles:
"Damn you Monica. They're like this because of you."
>He turns to look at the girl, causing her to nervously real back slightly. She averts her eyes, trying to avoid his stern gaze.
"If either of you bothers me with that question again, I-"
>The man suddenly stops, interrupted as he hears a knock coming from behind him.
R: 28 / I: 79
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 12:00 PM
>A dozen or so cars barrel down the streets of Sanctuary City's highway, loose change and dollar bills flying from the open windows. Casings of metal bullets litter the road - in the wake of the various cars, while MRD Hovercraft vehicles chase after them. The city's downtown region is barricaded, with various major streets blocked off to passers by - as well as segmented off to civilians.
>The lead MRD Hovercraft then activates its speakers, the voice of the platoon speaking through:
["Brigadiers! You are violating Sanctuary City law through armed robbery and attempted retreat! Pull over or we'll be forced to open fire on your vehicles!"]
>The Brigadiers in the cars seemingly respond by firing more bullets into the air - attempting to divert the MRD from their path.
>Inside of one of the Brigadier cars, a Brigadier Meta-Human turns their hooded head towards the backseat - looking at the cash piles in the back.
"Man, Phobos is gonna kick our asses for this!"
>The Brigadier next to their companion speaks - still steering the car wheel like a madman - attempting to avoid oncoming traffic from the highway overspill.
"Man can you just shut the fuck up and let me drive?! If they catch us, we're going to the Spire! Phobos can worry about that shit later when we've got the money and got the fuck out of here!"
>As the Brigadiers continue firing at the MRD hovercraft, the MRD platoon leader turns to his partner in the cockpit and says:
"They're getting erratic. Movements are becoming more unpredictable. Jitters are probably getting to them now."
>The MRD trooper in the driver's seat then says:
"Any ideas then?"
>The MRD platoon leader nods.
"We're getting closer to the Hydroponics district. From what I remember in the intel briefings, Phobos has the remainder of the Brigadiers piled up there. Might be better to let them lead us to-"
>Then suddenly, a resounding thud noise ripples from the side of the MRD hovercraft window as the MRD platoon leader does a double take.
[Event] - "Mean Reversion"
>Date: February 20th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 12:00 PM
>A dozen or so cars barrel down the streets of Sanctuary City's highway, loose change and dollar bills flying from the open windows. Casings of metal bullets litter the road - in the wake of the various cars, while MRD Hovercraft vehicles chase after them. The city's downtown region is barricaded, with various major streets blocked off to passers by - as well as segmented off to civilians.
>The lead MRD Hovercraft then activates its speakers, the voice of the platoon speaking through:
["Brigadiers! You are violating Sanctuary City law through armed robbery and attempted retreat! Pull over or we'll be forced to open fire on your vehicles!"]
>The Brigadiers in the cars seemingly respond by firing more bullets into the air - attempting to divert the MRD from their path.
>Inside of one of the Brigadier cars, a Brigadier Meta-Human turns their hooded head towards the backseat - looking at the cash piles in the back.
"Man, Phobos is gonna kick our asses for this!"
>The Brigadier next to their companion speaks - still steering the car wheel like a madman - attempting to avoid oncoming traffic from the highway overspill.
"Man can you just shut the fuck up and let me drive?! If they catch us, we're going to the Spire! Phobos can worry about that shit later when we've got the money and got the fuck out of here!"
>As the Brigadiers continue firing at the MRD hovercraft, the MRD platoon leader turns to his partner in the cockpit and says:
"They're getting erratic. Movements are becoming more unpredictable. Jitters are probably getting to them now."
>The MRD trooper in the driver's seat then says:
"Any ideas then?"
>The MRD platoon leader nods.
"We're getting closer to the Hydroponics district. From what I remember in the intel briefings, Phobos has the remainder of the Brigadiers piled up there. Might be better to let them lead us to-"
>Then suddenly, a resounding thud noise ripples from the side of the MRD hovercraft window as the MRD platoon leader does a double take.
R: 31 / I: 91
>Location: Sanctuary City - Outskirts
>Time: 11:00 PM
>Faint rays of light slowly illuminate patches of grass, stretching out across the edges of Sanctuary City's borders. Far away from the core metropolitan structures of the city - are miles of abandoned cars and working machinery. As vines, grass and other forms of vegetation move throughout the area, a pulse of bright orange heat appears from the sky - burning a large patch of grass all the way to the ground.
>As more plumes of fire drop down from the sky, a Meta-Human with a humanoid molten form rises from the largest plume of fire. Stepping out from his own incendiary work, Vulcan stretches his arms as he yawns with a distorted cadence in his voice - a byproduct of his molten and magma body.
"More chores and shit. Great."
>Holding his hand out, Vulcan generates a massive plume of fire, scorching other areas of the nearby vegetation - and generating massive discharges of smoke which rapidly float into the air.
"This better be worth it."
>As Vulcan continues doing his work, he then hears a series of light rumbling sounds. Turning his inflamed head, he squints his flame eyes, saying:
"The fuck? Who's there?!"
>There's no reply - only the sounds of crackling flames echoing through the abandoned field. After a few seconds, Vulcan then holds up both of his hands - high in the air as he creates a condensed ball of flame.
"Whatever. I'll flush you out the hard way then."
>As he slams the condensed fire ball into the ground, Vulcan creates a huge surge of fire that vaporizes most of the vegetation in his immediate area - generating even more smoke and fumes as the rumbling sounds continue.
"Eh?"
>Confused, Vulcan then looks around, walking slowly through the flame field he's created - eyes darting from side to side, as the rumbling sound intensifies.
"What is that?!"
>Immediately, Vulcan begins to feel a pressure building up in his head as he realizes what the sound actually is.
"….Is that air-"
>Vulcan's body is the snuffed out of flame as a massively powerful surge of air covers the entire field - slamming the fires into non-existence and flattening the remaining vegetation, cars and the like.
[Event] - "Fracture"
>Date: February 10th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Outskirts
>Time: 11:00 PM
>Faint rays of light slowly illuminate patches of grass, stretching out across the edges of Sanctuary City's borders. Far away from the core metropolitan structures of the city - are miles of abandoned cars and working machinery. As vines, grass and other forms of vegetation move throughout the area, a pulse of bright orange heat appears from the sky - burning a large patch of grass all the way to the ground.
>As more plumes of fire drop down from the sky, a Meta-Human with a humanoid molten form rises from the largest plume of fire. Stepping out from his own incendiary work, Vulcan stretches his arms as he yawns with a distorted cadence in his voice - a byproduct of his molten and magma body.
"More chores and shit. Great."
>Holding his hand out, Vulcan generates a massive plume of fire, scorching other areas of the nearby vegetation - and generating massive discharges of smoke which rapidly float into the air.
"This better be worth it."
>As Vulcan continues doing his work, he then hears a series of light rumbling sounds. Turning his inflamed head, he squints his flame eyes, saying:
"The fuck? Who's there?!"
>There's no reply - only the sounds of crackling flames echoing through the abandoned field. After a few seconds, Vulcan then holds up both of his hands - high in the air as he creates a condensed ball of flame.
"Whatever. I'll flush you out the hard way then."
>As he slams the condensed fire ball into the ground, Vulcan creates a huge surge of fire that vaporizes most of the vegetation in his immediate area - generating even more smoke and fumes as the rumbling sounds continue.
"Eh?"
>Confused, Vulcan then looks around, walking slowly through the flame field he's created - eyes darting from side to side, as the rumbling sound intensifies.
"What is that?!"
>Immediately, Vulcan begins to feel a pressure building up in his head as he realizes what the sound actually is.
"….Is that air-"
>Vulcan's body is the snuffed out of flame as a massively powerful surge of air covers the entire field - slamming the fires into non-existence and flattening the remaining vegetation, cars and the like.
R: 19 / I: 83
>Location: Sanctuary City - MRD Spire
>Time: 7:00 AM.
>The large mechanical apparatus towering over the Financial District of Sanctuary City is the Spire. A large command center which serves as the national headquarters of the MRD. Separate from the core MRD Precinct - the Spire is the true headquarters of the organization.
>Inside of his office, situated at the highest story of the building, sits the MRD Director. As he sips a cup of coffee, Chase moves through the MRD recordings once again.
"Might as well look through it one more time. See if there's any discrepancies I didn't notice the first time."
>Pressing a button on his computer, he loads up a video file, CCTV footage of the MRD operation held at Daedalus Industries - a front organization for a mercenary group that the MRD have been investigating for months.
————————————————-
>The footage is partially grainy as a young man with wavy brown hair quickly runs down the hallway of a Daedalus Industries manufacturing center. The sound of gunfire and bullets can be heard in the distance - as MRD officers engage with the mercenary agents in the front half of the building. After rounding the corner, the young man is approached by a man wearing a unique outfit - an MRD armor. The MRD agent then speaks to the young man, his words indecipherable due to the helmet and the lack of audio. In his hand, the MRD agent holds a glowing metallic sphere with a series of unique circuitboard patterns. Handing the sphere to the man, the MRD agent then pats him on the back and then walks away - calmly.
————————————————-
>Confused, the young man then takes the metallic sphere and runs, thinking:
{"What the hell is this sphere? I'm guessing it's some kind of mechanical container? Is this reinforced steel or some sort of unique alloy?"}
>Tapping it as he comes to a halt before another corridor, he then thinks:
{"I could sell this to Archeon, since this job went bust. Hopefully that'll help with my application there, since these guys seem to be mercenaries, not a legit company."}
>Gritting his teeth, the man then slams his fist into the sphere in anger, a kneejerk reaction to his feelings of embarrassment and frustration at his past decisions.
{"Stupid, stupid, stupid! Good job Jericho. You got yourself roped up in some major situation, and you've got nothing to show for it!"}
>Sighing, Jericho then begins running to the edge of the corridor, saying out loud:
"This damn place is way too big! I knew I should've looked at the schematics before I started here!"
>His voice then cuts off as he hears footsteps now quickly running in his direction. Kicking himself mentally once more, he then realizes:
{"Now I've given them my position! Ugh! You idiot!"}
>Quickly turning around, Jericho begins running in the opposite direction, his nervousness starting to get the better of him as he tries to keep his conviction and focus.
{"You can do this. You can do this….You can do this!"}
[Event] - "In Training"
>Date: February 5th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - MRD Spire
>Time: 7:00 AM.
>The large mechanical apparatus towering over the Financial District of Sanctuary City is the Spire. A large command center which serves as the national headquarters of the MRD. Separate from the core MRD Precinct - the Spire is the true headquarters of the organization.
>Inside of his office, situated at the highest story of the building, sits the MRD Director. As he sips a cup of coffee, Chase moves through the MRD recordings once again.
"Might as well look through it one more time. See if there's any discrepancies I didn't notice the first time."
>Pressing a button on his computer, he loads up a video file, CCTV footage of the MRD operation held at Daedalus Industries - a front organization for a mercenary group that the MRD have been investigating for months.
————————————————-
>The footage is partially grainy as a young man with wavy brown hair quickly runs down the hallway of a Daedalus Industries manufacturing center. The sound of gunfire and bullets can be heard in the distance - as MRD officers engage with the mercenary agents in the front half of the building. After rounding the corner, the young man is approached by a man wearing a unique outfit - an MRD armor. The MRD agent then speaks to the young man, his words indecipherable due to the helmet and the lack of audio. In his hand, the MRD agent holds a glowing metallic sphere with a series of unique circuitboard patterns. Handing the sphere to the man, the MRD agent then pats him on the back and then walks away - calmly.
————————————————-
>Confused, the young man then takes the metallic sphere and runs, thinking:
{"What the hell is this sphere? I'm guessing it's some kind of mechanical container? Is this reinforced steel or some sort of unique alloy?"}
>Tapping it as he comes to a halt before another corridor, he then thinks:
{"I could sell this to Archeon, since this job went bust. Hopefully that'll help with my application there, since these guys seem to be mercenaries, not a legit company."}
>Gritting his teeth, the man then slams his fist into the sphere in anger, a kneejerk reaction to his feelings of embarrassment and frustration at his past decisions.
{"Stupid, stupid, stupid! Good job Jericho. You got yourself roped up in some major situation, and you've got nothing to show for it!"}
>Sighing, Jericho then begins running to the edge of the corridor, saying out loud:
"This damn place is way too big! I knew I should've looked at the schematics before I started here!"
>His voice then cuts off as he hears footsteps now quickly running in his direction. Kicking himself mentally once more, he then realizes:
{"Now I've given them my position! Ugh! You idiot!"}
>Quickly turning around, Jericho begins running in the opposite direction, his nervousness starting to get the better of him as he tries to keep his conviction and focus.
{"You can do this. You can do this….You can do this!"}
R: 8 / I: 36
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 8:00 PM
>Faint roaring diffuses through the city streets as a large armored vehicle swerves by cars. Astonished pedestrians and MRD agents watch as the vehicle barrels down the street, blaring with a set of large flames. The embers illuminate the neatly paved roads of Sanctuary City - contrasting with the metallic and rigid design of the vehicle itself.
>The Manifold, Mosaic's personal ground vehicle transport, intersects with an entry road onto the highway of Sanctuary City's upper structure. As the vehicle rushes onto the higher levels of the city with the structural overpass, faint pulsing emanate from the front head lights of the Manifold.
>Inside of the Manifold's interior and in the driver's seat, Mosaic looks at his dashboard carefully. Lenses narrowing at the report shown at his side:
["3rd Brigadier attack since Phobos's arrest."]
>Sighing, he then flips his finger across the screen - disabling the news report function of the system's UI.
"Soon it'll be the 4th, unless I figure out what they're after."
>Grabbing the modified stick shift, Mosaic presses his foot against the clutch pedal of the vehicle, manually shifting gears as the Manifold surges forward at an even higher speed. Being guided by automated proximity systems and drift harnesses, pockets of superheated and compressed gas help Mosaic to maneuver the vehicle at higher and higher speeds - rapidly closing in on his location.
"Good ol' Hydroponics District. Remember when I took Phobos here for a splash. Good times."
[Event] - "Contention"
>Date: January 30th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 8:00 PM
>Faint roaring diffuses through the city streets as a large armored vehicle swerves by cars. Astonished pedestrians and MRD agents watch as the vehicle barrels down the street, blaring with a set of large flames. The embers illuminate the neatly paved roads of Sanctuary City - contrasting with the metallic and rigid design of the vehicle itself.
>The Manifold, Mosaic's personal ground vehicle transport, intersects with an entry road onto the highway of Sanctuary City's upper structure. As the vehicle rushes onto the higher levels of the city with the structural overpass, faint pulsing emanate from the front head lights of the Manifold.
>Inside of the Manifold's interior and in the driver's seat, Mosaic looks at his dashboard carefully. Lenses narrowing at the report shown at his side:
["3rd Brigadier attack since Phobos's arrest."]
>Sighing, he then flips his finger across the screen - disabling the news report function of the system's UI.
"Soon it'll be the 4th, unless I figure out what they're after."
>Grabbing the modified stick shift, Mosaic presses his foot against the clutch pedal of the vehicle, manually shifting gears as the Manifold surges forward at an even higher speed. Being guided by automated proximity systems and drift harnesses, pockets of superheated and compressed gas help Mosaic to maneuver the vehicle at higher and higher speeds - rapidly closing in on his location.
"Good ol' Hydroponics District. Remember when I took Phobos here for a splash. Good times."
R: 44 / I: 130
>Location: Sanctuary City - Residential District
>Time: 10:00 PM
>A figure in a dark suit, cape and sophisticated cowl glides through the air. The cold breeze of the air presses against the figure's suit as they glide across air currents. Situated against the backdrop of Sanctuary City, the capital city of Meta-Humanity, bright lights from large metropolitan skyscrapers remain in the distance.
{"Reports of a psychic Meta-Human. He seems stronger than most."}
>The figure then lands on a nearby rooftop - gracefully gliding as he comes to a standstill at the edge of a high-rise mansion. Overlooking the neighborhood, he focuses his lenses on a series of force bursts across the street. Recognizing the description of the psychic Meta-Human, he then says to himself:
"Well what do you know? He's exactly what the reports said. Powerful."
>The figure then jumps into the air, extending his cape again as the nanomesh material begins to glide - carrying him forward once again.
[Event] - "Genesis"
>Date: January 20th, 2016>Location: Sanctuary City - Residential District
>Time: 10:00 PM
>A figure in a dark suit, cape and sophisticated cowl glides through the air. The cold breeze of the air presses against the figure's suit as they glide across air currents. Situated against the backdrop of Sanctuary City, the capital city of Meta-Humanity, bright lights from large metropolitan skyscrapers remain in the distance.
{"Reports of a psychic Meta-Human. He seems stronger than most."}
>The figure then lands on a nearby rooftop - gracefully gliding as he comes to a standstill at the edge of a high-rise mansion. Overlooking the neighborhood, he focuses his lenses on a series of force bursts across the street. Recognizing the description of the psychic Meta-Human, he then says to himself:
"Well what do you know? He's exactly what the reports said. Powerful."
>The figure then jumps into the air, extending his cape again as the nanomesh material begins to glide - carrying him forward once again.