Who Will Save Us Now? (Orders Due April 17th)

[Xathan]

[ooc=Links]Discussion and Interest
Rules
Characters[/ooc]

Welcome to Who Will Save Us Now? This is a game of superheroes fighting to protect a world that has lost its former premier team while struggling to build their reputations. The game has bi-weekly turns, with each turn representing a week in-universe unless stated otherwise. This Thread is for posting Orders only. Please use the following format:

[ic=Narration]An overall story showing what your character is doing this week[/ic]

[spoiler=Message to Players]A message to a particular player. These are unlimited.[/spoiler]

[Spoiler=Message to Contacts]A message to a contact to try to get more information. While such messages are unlimited, you are only guaranteed two responses per week to keep things manageable for me.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Orders]Your Orders for the week.[/spoiler]

As additional messages are sent, please edit your original post for that week to include them. If the character limit is reached, then feel free to make a second or third or nth post as needed, but please keep your orders in the first post you make that week.

Spoiler tags should only be read by their intented players and myself. I think the CBG has proven on enough occasions that an honor system works fine here.

I am not accepting new players at this time until I get a better feel for how I can manage the ones I have, a total of 6. If you were thinking about joining, please PM me and I'll make sure to see if I can add you.

Thank you all for the help getting this started. Special mention has to go to Steerpike, who ran the superb Underdeep that got me thinking about running this style of forum game in the first place, and Sparkletwist, who has been endless help in balancing and rules.

[Xathan]

[ooc]Doom Counter: 50[/ooc]
[ic]It has been one month since the defeat of the Exarchs at the Null Terminus. The world has begun recovering from the collective shock of the first and best known super-hero team being completely wiped out in a single moment, but there is still mourning from the loss of the world's greatest heroes...at least, for some. For others, there has been opprotunity. Crime and Super Crime has been on the rise across the planet, as opportunistic vultures swoop in on relatively unprotected locations.

Of course, nature abhors a vacuum, and sometimes that works in the favor of those who value safety, life, and other basic rights. New heroes have begun to emerge to claim the empty space left by the Exarchs, although in many cases they are just rumors or whispers in what bloggers are beginning to call "The Race for the Throne," a reference to the Exarch's now abandoned orbital sanctum.

In Iphigenia, whispers have begun that, not only are the Furies still active, but that Nemesis has returned from the Terminus to lead them, imbued with the dark power of that realm. Others have reported that Erinyes has been absent from their outings, and that Nemesis is actually Erinyes wearing her costume - or that Erinyes had been accepted into the Exarchs, and it was truly her that fell at the Null Terminus breach.

In Atlanta, there is muttering of a tough on crime group of vigilantes aiding peace in the area. Although the group is well known in Atlanta, some wonder if "Thunder" is really looking to save the world - or just punish those they believe wicked, reigniting the debate on vigilantism.

From Ireland, there are vague whispers of a group of monsters and wizards. Fantastic even by the standards of a world once guarded by the Exarchs, many dismiss this group as mere fantastical mutters - aided by those that believe them seem to mostly be conspiracy nuts on late night radio or in the dark corners of the web.

In New York, the Huntresses have begun drawing more notice than before. Although their reclusive nature and high collateral costs have many looking at them warily, others argue the armored maidens are exactly what the world needs in a post-Exarch age.

In Cuba, the International have begun drawing notice again. While others dismiss them as "Castro's pet supers," others wonder if perhaps, in spite of their communist leanings, their experience is exactly what the world needs.

And in Panama, Gradient has begun drawing notice. Already known for their other business lines, their moves into the realm of super heroic have people sitting up and wondering if perhaps corporate efficiency is the best solution for the recent surge in crime.

Among all those, other whispers are rising. Unsubstantiated reports have Archon appearing in Saint Louis, Missouri, Hyper Radiant Power Spider roving the streets of Tokyo with a grey pallor to her skin, and Lady Dusk marshalling troops on her northern border. UFO sightings have increased rapidly across Europe, and there have been numerous reports of graves being robbed in Mexico - although the manner of the digging always seems strange.[/ic]

[ic=Individual Information]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Nemesis II, leader of The Furies]It has not been long since you donned your mother's cowl, and it likely still rests heavy upon your bare head. Crime in Dis is always a problem, and with the threat of Nemesis seemingly gone, the scum of the city have become increasingly bold.

There's been a surge in petty theft and mugging that has to be dealt with, and the local police are even more brazen about their corruption. To make matters worse, rumors have begun to spread that Nemesis has returned – and the reports have "her" appearing at times when you were elsewhere. While they could be the rumors of a fearful lot, there is someone killing criminals in your town, and it's not you or the other Kindly Ones.

In addition, one of Nemesis' old foes, Collateral, has been sighted outside New York. Although he makes claims to being on the side of the angels, he is known for killing criminals...and their entire families to send a message to future ones, even the innocents.

In larger news, Dianne O'Brian has been spotted in Panama. Dianne is wanted in the United States for building low income housing in Dis - and paying to cover up the dangerous and cheap materials in the construction that were ignored, leading to asbestos poisoning, lead poisoning, and in one case a complete structural collapse, killing 7. Nemesis I uncovered her crime, but she fled with the aid of an unknown powered bodyguard.
[ooc=Missions Available]

Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: It might be good to remind people that, even with the original Nemesis gone, there is still a Nemesis and the Furies active. (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

Police Shakedown: Corruption in the police force is getting worse, and may even be spreading to other cities. Perhaps the police need to be reminded of who watch the watchmen. (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Prevent Collateral: Although New York is not your usual beat, Collateral has killed dozens of innocent people, and likely will again. While New York is home to the Huntresses, you can take him out yourself (+30 Rep, -2 Doom Counter) or you can alert the Huntresses of his presence and hope they deal with it. (+5 Rep, No Heroes Need Dedicated)

False Nemesis Hunt: Whoever is claiming to be Nemesis must be stopped! Time can be spent hunting down the false Nemesis, (+10 Rep, -4 Doom Counter) or Nemesis II could make a media appearance and public statement to remove doubt as to who is the true Nemesis (+20 Rep, -0 Doom Counter)

Capture Dianne: Dianne O'Brian is the kind of monster that makes the costumed clowns you deal with welcome. It'll be years before you know how many people she killed with her cost-cutting measures. While she's in Panama and not an active threat, she still should be brought to justice. (+30 Wealth, +20 Rep)

[/ooc][/spoiler]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Justice, leader of Thunder]In the month since the fall of the Exarchs, Atlanta has been fortunately quiet. This was attributed, for awhile, to the presence of Thunder in the area as an established force, but rumors have begun to reach your ear that a new crime boss has begun to consolidate power, leading to the quiet you have been enjoying.

Beyond that, there have been rumors of a new Golem sighted near Iphigenia. While Iphigenia is an odd location, being outside the needed cities, the possibility of a new Golem represents a major threat that must be dealt with - and perhaps providing a lead on the Master.

To your annoyance, a contact claiming to have more information about Judas' criminal network was arrested smuggling drugs out of Cuba and is currently in jail. The information is unclear to how much he actually knows, but it's the first lead you've had in months.

On top of that, Israel Ward, a DA in town, has requested protection. There are serious threats being against his life, so he claims, and the letters he has received do promise violence - while so far being significantly vague to prevent it from being easy to pinpoint.

[ooc=Missions Available]Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: With the rise of this new criminal network, it may be good to remind people of who their protectors are. (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

New Boss, Same as Old Boss: This new crime boss could be a serious problem. An attempt could be made to take down some of the minor gangsters working for him to get a lead, or maybe even catch...whoever he is. (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Golem' Crazy: The sight of a new Golem is cause for alarm. You could just alert the Furies of his presence (+5 reputation), or you could go and deal with him yourselves. (+30 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

Ward Mr. Ward: With the threats against Israel Ward's life, effort could be made to protect the DA. Of course, since there's no date on that threat, it may not be a high priority (+20 Rep, -0 Doom Counter)

Recover the Contact: With a possible lead on Judas in jail, a recovery must be made. Since he's in Cuba, it's very unlikely that he could be recovered through normal legal channels. (+30 rep, -0 Doom Counter)[/ooc][/spoiler]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Aedan Corcaigh, head of the Circle]While everyone else is worrying about the mess made in the mundane world by the loss of the Exarchs at the Null Terminus, you have a different sort of problem you're looking at. The Null Terminus Breach was a massive tear in space/time, and when the Exarch's fell it snapped shut with incredible force. Most mortals thought it was anti-climatic - you know better, as that snap rippled across the mystic dimension, creating great instability.

In Atlanta, a Spirit Hunter has escaped from the dread dimension that spawned it. Normally invisible, the Spirit Hunter is seeking hosts to allow it to fully enter the mortal world.

In London, a gang of youths have begun spraying what the media is calling "Satanic" symbols on walls. While these symbols are mostly the typical claptrap of young would-be-demonologists, a number of them have been disturbingly close to symbols of true power.

Feeding off the boldness of the criminal elements, Hubriphages have begun to enter the mortal world in your native Ireland. There presence nearby is not a huge cause for alarm...unless they become aware of you.

[ooc=Missions Available]Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: While the world may think you're mostly a myth, it might be good to get out and about to remind those in the know that you're not out of the picture. (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

Checkin' Out the Rift: The site where the Null Terminus Breach snapped shut has not been investigated by anyone with knowledge of the mystic arts. It may be important to travel to New York to check out the details of it, given how massive the feedback was. (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Spirit Hunter Takedown: The presence of a Spirit Hunter in Atlanta is a potentially serious problem, especially if it manages to possess a member of local vigilante team, Thunder. Of course, you could just warn them (+5 rep), but how can you be sure they Sprit Hunter hasn't already taken one? (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Gangland Investigation: Those London gangs are spraying around some majorly dangerous runes. Individually they are harmless, but that many around the city could deliberately or accidentally trigger a major event! Someone should find out what they're trying to do and stop them. (+5 Rep, -5 Doom Counter)

Hubriphages...why did it have to be Hubriphages?: The presence of the Pride Eaters, the Arrogant Ones, is not a major threat, but if they are allowed to feed unchecked long enough it could become a real threat...and other members of the Circle may worry what would happen if they got their fangs into Aedan.
[/ooc][/spoiler]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Vanguard, Fellow Comrade of the Internationale] Greetings, Comrade! It is a glorious day for a revolution! while the loss of the Exarchs is a blow for global secuirty, it is also a blow against the Imperialist mindset of the world! Now is the chance to stand up and fight with your brothers and sisters in revolution.

Of course, revolution is not easy. In London, England, a college collective espousing the virtues of communism have had several of their members recently turn up dead. As sad as that is, to make matters worse, the bodies have all been curiously disfigured - their faces grown into a blank mask.

Beyond that, Night Witch detects a malevolent entity - a Spirit Hunter - prowling the streets of Atlanta. How such an entity came to this world is a mystery, but they strip men of their will and turn them into their vessels, an abominable act if there ever was one.

In addition, a super hero team has begun operating out of Panama, right on your doorstep. While another group of heroes is normally not noteworthy, this team is literally a corporation operating as a super team!

Finally, in Cuba, there have been rumors that Lady Dusk - or one of her robotic duplicates, a Duskbot - has been prowling the night. The near-literal embodiment of facism may have begun establishing a foothold on your home turf!

[ooc=Missions Available]Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: With the capitalist Exarch's finally gone, it might be good to remind the people that the time for revolution is right! (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

Spirit Hunter Takedown: The presence of a Spirit Hunter in Atlanta is a potentially serious problem, especially if it manages to possess a member of local vigilante team, Thunder. Of course, you could just warn them (+5 rep), but how can you be sure they Sprit Hunter hasn't already taken one? (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Revolutionary Guard(ian angels): The murders of the members of the collective in London may be unrelated to their political leanings, or may have everything to do with it. Either way, someone is preying upon your fellow revolutionaries, that that must not stand. (+20 Wealth, +10 Rep, -1 Doom Counter)

Investigate Gradiant: Sure, they claim to be on the side of Justice, but their leader is also their CEO - how could they be anything other than corrupt. Although it's probably inadvisable to do a first strike, a chance to get in close and spy upon them could prove fruitful. (+30 Wealth, -0 Doom Counter)

Duskbot or Not?: The presence of Lady Dusk - or one of her robots - is a major threat, especially here in Cuba. However, even a duplicate of the Nazi Queen could be incredibly dangerous. Taking her down would be a massive blow for the Revolution - or it could be walking right into one of her traps. (+30 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

[/ooc]
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Aurora, the Empyrean Huntress, Commander of the Huntresses]

Since your arrival on Earth, you have stayed out of the affairs of native humans. The fall of the Exarchs, in theory, should impact your mission little - if at all - and yet the world finds itself in a rather turbulent state at the moment, and since you are on Earth, that turbulence is still impacting you.

Reports are coming in from across the globe about the rising threats, and some of them are hitting marks on your target list. In Iphigenia, there has been sightings of two women going by the name Nemesis. One of them, which is difficult to pin down, shows sign of using alien technology. Maybe she's from home, or maybe she's acquired tech from someone who was there, but either way she may have information you need - if she's not a mark herself.

In your home location of New York, the Starsword has been spotted. The Starsword is a powerful and experimental weapon that was brought here by Oneria. When you brought her to justice, the Starsword could not be located. Although it is likely in the hands of a native Earther, the Starsword should be recovered.

Another wanted criminal was spotted, by reports, in Ireland. You're not sure what Axiom, the Worldcracker, is doing on the remote island, but given his reputation it is likely devastating.

Finally, there's unconfirmed reports that Ephemeria, the Silver Daemon, has been building a cult in London. Ephemeria is a known practioner of the pseudo-mystic arts and wanted for seven counts of kidnapping with intent to sacrifice.

[ooc=Missions Available]Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: While you don't much care for the affairs of Earth, the loss of the Exarch's have emboldened many criminals to become more active. If there was ever a chance to just stumble upon some of your quarry, this would be it.  (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

False Nemesis Hunt: Whoever is claiming to be Nemesis is pinging an energy reading native to your homeworld, so is likely one of your targets. Of course, if not, it could be a major waste of time. (+10 Rep, -4 Doom Counter).

Recover the Starsword: Such a powerful weapon in the hands of a native human cannot stand for long, and the potential for havok is great. However, "somewhere in New York" covers a fairly wide area for the search...(+30 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Axiom-o-matic: Axiom the Worldcracker is a serious threat that also happens to be fairly fair away. A force could be dispatched to deal with him (+20 Wealth, -2 Doom Counter) or attempts could be made to contact the shadowy Circle in Ireland...assuming they could handle Axiom. (+5 Rep)

Ephemeria-L: Ephemeria is growing her power base, and becoming a larger threat. Efforts must be made to stop her before she can complete whatever she's working on...although it's not clear how far along she is. (+30 Rep, -3 Doom Counter)

[/ooc][/spoiler]
[spoiler=For The Eyes of Hugo Martinez, CEO, CFO, and CMO of Gradient]Q1 is over, and although the overall market took a major hit when the Exarchs fell at the Null Terminus, you weathered the storm well. The market has begun to swing up now, and the chance for a new Superhero team to fill the vacant niche left by the fall of the Exarchs is ripe. There are several options coming across your desk.

In your home of Panama City, crime is a problem as always, but lately there have been a trio of powered individuals targeting corporations. Calling themselves the Scions of the Red, they have a strong anti-corporate message and lethal results.

Outside of Panama, a District attorney in Atlanta, GA, - a Mr. Israel Ward -  has been putting out feelers for anyone willing to protect him from threats against his life. Although that information is, so far, vague, it does offer an opportunity to establish a relationship in North America.

Not quite as far to your north, there's been rumors of a new drug in Mexico. While busting drug runners isn't your typical beat, the CIA has offered anyone a substantial reward for this drug, as the rumor mill holds that it gives users some minor super-powers.

Finally, off the coast of Africa, word has reached you that one of the Golden Warrior's android bodies has been found. Of course, this word comes from a former employee of Phillip Clawson, who reported it as part of a job interview, so it may not be reliable source...on the other hand, if this is true, an android body that powerful should not be allowed to remain in hands that would misuse it so greatly.

[ooc=Missions Available]Reminder: These are only suggested missions, not a hard and fast limit you must follow. Any mission can be researched, which will increase available information as well as possible rewards.

Extra Patrols: Brand recognition is vital, and getting more of your people out there on patrol will help restore market confidence at the same time. Win-Win. (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

Red Scare: The Scions of the Red are a threat that's looming directly on your borders, so may take a top priority. However, their violent actions have - so far - been mostly a problem for local competitors, so maybe it's worth the risk to sit on it...(+30 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

Ward Mr. Ward: With the threats against Israel Ward's life, effort could be made to protect the DA. Of course, since there's no date on that threat, it may not be a high priority (+20 Rep, -0 Doom Counter).

D.A.R.E.: The super-drug in Mexico is a problem, and Mexico's problems tend to spill further south. You could attempt to break up the drug ring and try to trace it to its source (+20 Rep, -4 Doom Counter)...or you could turn it over to the CIA to do with what they well (+60 Wealth, +5 Doom Counter)

Golden Recovery: The Golden Warrior's body, if it is there, probably should not be allowed to be used by Clawson, since it would likely only lead to further villainy. However, there is a major risk of going against a foe that has threatened the entire Exarchs on occasion...(+20 Rep, +20 Wealth, -2 Doom Counter)

[/ooc][/spoiler]

[HippopotamusDundee]

[ic=Aon]
Auld Paddraigh sits cross-legged on the floor of his room at the Mutton Lane Inn, old bones aching in the rain. From his pocket he draws a worn and faded stack of cards, the remains of a dozen handcrafted Tarot decks that the years have winnowed and refined down to the one perfect set. Eight suits. Wands, Cups, Blades, Coins, Shadows, Stones, Dice, Skulls. The remaining thirty-eight cards all variations on the Major Arcana. Paddraig lays the first six cards on the floor as their faces shift and run like oil on water in a scrying bowl.

The Hermit. Distance. Silence. A man-shaped shadow wanders the midnight streets, only the dim lantern of the crescent moon lighting his way and illuminating the beauty of darkly-dreaming Cork.

Knight of Wands. Travel. Drive. Readiness for battle. Aedan Corcaigh reclines in a chair, a sack tucked away beneath his feet. Spilling out is a length of rowan, carved with Ogham runes and dyed a flaming red with berry-dye.

The Guardian. Hunter. Trickster. Confronting darkness. Bouda bares a savage hyena-grin as they wander by a hedgerow, stepping over rotting roadkill without fear or disgust.  

The Wanderer. Seeking after truth. Visions of Illumination. Hed kneels in a bright-lit cave and gazes out at the stars, three soft-limned tunnels behind them leading further and deeper in.

Jack of Shadows. Caution. Beginnings of a mystery. Dyadya Yaga stands beneath a floating star, sole light-source in a dark alley. Illuminated on the wall, a bloody sigil still fresh and dripping.

The Hanged Man. Passivity. Contemplation. Patience. A stony being stands within the cleft rock of an enormous canyon, legs anchored to the living earth beneath them.

Cards reshuffled and safely stowed in a hidden pocket, Paddraig raises a glass of luck-smooth stout and calls a sláinte to absent friends as the rain outside the window continues to paint Cork grey and mist-smudged.
[/ic]

[spoiler=Message to Thunder]
Dia dhaoibh.

I am Aedan Corcaigh, leader of Corcaigh's Circle, and I write to you as both warning and a courtesy. My Circle keeps a weather eye out for occult and otherworldly matters, and the abrupt closure of the Null Terminus Breach unleashed an overflow of energies that are weakening all manners of vital borders and thresholds.

Through one of these borders a creature called a Spirit Hunter, invisible and currently trapped sideways to the sun between its world and ours, has arrived in your city. It seeks above all else to fully slip its state of half-life and enter into our world for good and can only do so by possessing a mortal host.

And what better host than one with both personal and institutional power, which is why I thought it prudent to warn in advance rather than in person. I myself intend to travel to Atlanta to investigate the situation and offer what assistance I can in resolving it, and feel it the courteous thing to give you forewarning of my presence and intentions.

I look forward to assisting your fair city, and hopefully working alongside you.

Le gach dea-mhéin,
Aedan Corcaigh
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Reply to Thunder]
JUSTICE,

The third eye wanders where it will, and can rarely be directed. When we noticed the instability rippling out from the closure of the Null Terminus Breach we turned our efforts towards scrying and following the path of those ripples, and it was through tracing those ripples that our eyes were drawn to Atlanta.

I am still researching the precise means of detection  (along with containment) for a Spirit Hunter but will pass along all information I gather as soon as I can. Certain of my personal capacities for detection and research desire a degree of proximity to the subject, hence my need to visit Atlanta.

I assure you that I will to show nothing but politeness and respect towards the citizens and guardians of your fair city, and will comply with any restrictions or safeguards you may wish to put in place.

Le gach dea-mhéin,
Aedan Corcaigh
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Message to The Furies]
Dia dhaoibh.

I am Aedan Corcaigh, leader of Corcaigh's Circle, and I write this as a courtesy and act of good faith. My Circle and I keep a weather eye out for occult and otherworldly matters, and the abrupt closure of the Null Terminus Breach unleashed an overflow of energies that are weakening all manners of vital borders and thresholds throughout the world. At some point in the coming weeks I intend to visit your state to examine the site of the Breach, and felt it the mannerly thing to do to give you forewarning of my intentions.

I shall be sure to follow up and alert you when I enter New York and will be happy at that time to assist with local concerns relating to the otherworldly and occult should my aid by welcome.

Le gach dea-mhéin,
Aedan Corcaigh
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Message to Auld Paddraig]
Dia dhaoibh, my friend.

I was wondering if you and yours have ever come across word of Spirit Hunters before? One is trying to come through in a city with local heroes and I'd rather the thing not gain possession of any powers other than its own.

Le gach dea-mhéin,
Aedan
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Orders]
Aedan will make up an Anonymity Hexbag for Hattori Hanzō and then gather up the supplies necessary for casting Fury of the Red Branch and Summon Spirit. He will then take the second super-jet to Atlanta, looking for signs of the Spirit Hunter's presence and attempting to track its movements and actions. Should they wish he is happy to advise Thunder and give them any information or indirect aid he can, and he is willing to assist them in confronting the Spirit Hunter if he has time to summon an earth-elemental beforehand (Sidekick: Brute) to serve as backup.

Bouda takes to the road and spends the week patrolling the laneways and hedgerows of Ireland in search of anything out of the ordinary. Should he uncover a problem that seems straightforward and able to be handled by physical force he will intervene; should he uncover something that seems more mystically-demanding or dangerous he will call in Hattori Hanzō for back-up and track the perpetrator until his ally arrives.

Dyadya Yaga takes one of the super-jets to London and begins research in the backalleys and occulted underworld there. He will spend some time locating the gangland symbols and putting together a picture of where throughout the city they've been placed and what purpose they have both individually and in combination, and will also stop by the Atlantis Bookstore and several less reputable occult dealers to gather information on Hubriphages.

Hattori Hanzō will use Aedan's Anonymity Hexbag (+4 to his Stealth of 12) to add to his already-supernatural stealth and patrol County Cork, especially the city of Cork itself, attempting to locate and observe the Hubriphages without drawing undue attention. He will intervene in any mundane crime he witnesses only if he is confident that there are no Hubriphages around to witness it.
[/spoiler]

[Steerpike]

[ic=Implacable]The scabrous asphalt of Iphigenia's neglected streets are slick with rain. Its gutters, clotted with filth, are scoured of scum and detritus. But even the torrential downpour is not cleansing. The rain is gritty, tainted with pollutants. It eats away at all it touches, leaving buildings pockmarked, statues scarred like burn victims. The dying city, teetering on bankruptcy, cannot afford to renovate the cadaverous monoliths of its lost glory.

Word on the street is that Nemesis is gone, swallowed by the Null Terminus. Like vermin, Iphigenia's criminals emerge from their warrens, creeping from crack-houses and the rusted hulks of trailers, from the abandoned factories and warehouses in which they sheltered. They throng the desolate car-parks, appear on street-corners, slither from alley to alley leaving a trail of victims and new-made addicts like spoor.

In board-rooms and penthouse offices, a different breed of criminal make their plans. Parasitic, they will wring the last drops of lifeblood from Iphigenia if there are none there to stop them. Thick, ringed fingers punch buttons on expensive phones. Nemesis is gone. The city is ours once more.

From atop a mutilated monument, a shadow watches. People below look up, catching a glimpse of something flitting across the grey, acidic twilight – leathery-wings, a flash of crimson eyes.

In a backlot overgrown with weeds and desiccated grass, two tattooed toughs batter a young prostitute. Her lipstick is smeared lipstick, her cheekbone bruised and bleeding. She has tried to switch pimps, to peel the man who calls himself Mister Ape. The men work over the Choosey Susie while a police officer stands at the chain-link gate of the lot, ignoring the violence within. The girl screams as one of the enforcers sends her reeling, nearly breaking her jaw. A man passing on the street looks through the fence but is deterred by the cold stare of the Corporal.

The shadow overhead flits once more. None of the men below see it.

One of the enforcers takes out a 9mm. It's time to end things, to make an example, show the girls of Dis how things will be from now on.

From out of the gloaming something hurtles through the air. There's a hiss of vapour as the smoke grenade detonates, filling the lot with lurid fog. A whip in the semblance of a snake cracks and the thug cries out as it lashes round his wrist, cutting into flesh, his pistol falling from his grasp. He curses, and his companion pulls out a shotgun. The whip's wielder is obscured by the mist.

The police officer is moving, weapon out. He makes it three steps into the lot before a heel lashes out. He sprawls in the mud. He picks himself up and gropes for his firearm, but it is lost in the fog, then curls his hands into fists and swings a haymaker at the lithe, black-clad shape darting towards him. The woman is too quick; his blow throws him off-balance. He receives an impression of midnight scales, and gloves with claws for nails before a brutal uppercut sends him flying once more. A sword-blade gleams and swings towards him, and he thinks for a moment that this moment is his last before the pommel strikes his temple. Later, he'll wake up concussed, disarmed, and handcuffed outside his own station. Incriminating photographs placing him at the scene of several drug deals will ensure his suspension.

The shotgun wielding thug sees something move. His weapon barks like a rabid dog. The blast shreds grass and earth, but the shadow has disappeared back into the mist. The woman on the ground is screaming, crawling away.

"Fuck this," the first enforcer grunts, making for the gate. The whip cracks again, this time wrenching him off his feet. He struggles to get up but then a fist grabs his hair from behind, brings his head down hard once, twice. He slumps, comatose. He'll be found cuffed to the police officer; the large quantities of cocaine in his possession will put him away for the better part of a decade.

The shotgun-wielding enforcer fires again, but his weapon sounds strangely meek in the mist. "Where are you, bitch?" he snarls. He twists as the shadow emerges once more from the fog, blade flashing. The sword slices through the shotgun-barrel, shears through two of the man's fingers. Blood spurts as he drops the gun; a gloved hand catches it, then smacks him across the face with its butt, breaking his nose. A second blow and he spits teeth. He grabs for the knife at his belt but the hand grabs his forearm, twists. There's a sickening snap as his wrist fractures, a second as a well-placed kick snaps two of his ribs and sends him hurtling through the air. He bounces against the chain-link and falls face-forward to the muddy ground.

A booted foot rolls him over, then slams down hard on his neck, nearly crushing his windpipe.

"Tell your boss not to get comfortable," a voice says from out of the rain and darkness. "His hubris will only earn him pain."

The masked face comes close, red eyes filling his vision. "The Furies hear the complaints of the poor to the rich, of the powerless to the powerful, of the weak to the strong. We can neither be defeated nor evaded. We do not give up. We do not forgive. We do not forget." The masked visage jerks close, head-butting the thug into unconsciousness.

Later, back in the depths of Erebus, Nemesis II applies ice to bruised knuckles, rubs a hand across her scalp. She may not have her mother's abilities, but she will try to live up to what the cape and cowl of Nemesis represent. For now, the criminals of Iphigenia may believe themselves safe, but they will learn to fear the Kindly Ones again...[/ic]

[spoiler=Message to Aurora]Huntress.

The killer known as Collateral has come to your city. We have had dealings with this individual before. If he contacts you, do not be deceived by his false beneficence. He is as deadly as he is insane.

Collateral will be stopped. Two of the Furies have been dispatched to capture him. This message is a courtesy, nothing more. In the wake of the Exarchs' disappearance there is much chaos. Stay out of our way and we will have no conflict with you.

Interfere at your peril.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Message to Aurora]Huntress.

Provided your efforts in apprehending the false Nemesis result in no collateral damage to the surrounding city - none of the mayhem and havoc you and your compatriots have elsewhere been known to spread - your presence in Iphigenia will be tolerated. But should a single drop of innocent blood be spilled, know that you will have brought the wrath of the Furies upon you.

We do not give up. We do not forgive. We do not forget.[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Message to Aedan Corcaigh]Greetings, Aedan.

Your courtesy is appreciated. Lady Lamia informs me that she had dealings with one of your number, the one known as Hed. Should you visit the city of New York she can be found there.

Should you have the opportunity to visit Iphigenia, we have been told there is a Golem at large in our city, a being of clay created by someone known as The Master. Whether this Golem's activities are related to other disturbances in our city at the moment, we are not sure. Your occult knowledge would be of great use in this matter.

Nemesis[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Message to Justice]Justice,

Your vigilance is commendable. Whether this Golem is responsible for some of the recent turmoil in Iphigenia we do not know, but we are investigating such disturbances seriously. If any leads as to the Master's whereabouts are located we will pass them on. Why does this Master create beings of such destructive force? What does he seek?

Nemesis[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Orders]Nemesis II patrols the streets of Iphigenia to remind its people that the Furies still watch over them. While she keeps her eyes open for any signs of the false Nemesis, her chief objective is simply to curb any opportunistic crime Dis' local thugs and syndicates might try now that her mother is gone. While she avoids any kind of media appearance, she asks Pythia to begin spreading word of the truth online about her mother and the false Nemesis.

Meanwhile, in Erebus, Sister Siren begins gathering information on the false Nemesis, using her research skills (Investigate) and contacts to learn more of this murderous vigilante. She focuses on any witnesses to this new Nemesis' killings. Simultaneously, she begins investigating the local police, taking to the streets to interview those who might have suffered at their hands. If required, she will use her powers to coax information from those who might normally be reticent, compelling them to speak. Her Multi-Tasking Investigate ability allows her to make both research checks.

The Harpy and Lady Lamia use the Strix to head to New York City. The Huntresses cannot be trusted to take care of Collateral; he is an enemy of the Furies, and the Furies will take care of him. They know no jurisdiction, no territory. Besides, the Huntresses are known to put the public in unacceptable danger. The Harpy uses any of her former criminal contacts in New York to help track Collateral down, while Lady Lamia exploits her network of escorts to see if they know anything about his possible whereabouts or targets. Since Collateral's attacks are both lethal and devastating, he must be captured immediately if he can be located.[/spoiler]

[LD]

[ic=Justice for All]
Justice Zone

The heroes are together in their shiny refurbished quarters, Hood with her knees up to her chin on the couch next to The Damned, who sprawls, arms out near an end pillow. Abraxas fills a reclining chair, and Justice stands with his hands on the back of a high rimmed chair. Conversation turns to the Superjet.

Damned: Why do we need that thing?
Abraxas: Can you fly? No. Can Justice fly, no. Can I fly? This white man can jump, but that isn't good enough. Only Hood flies. She shouldn't be lonely.
Damned: But WHY? We protect Atlanta. Don't need a plane to reach the burbs... Don't know why we'd reach the burbs though. Enough evil happenin' here.
Justice: With great power comes great gifts and people come to assume we have a worldwide responsibility.
Damned: I say we give it back. There's enough shit going down here.
Abraxas: This be how we get big. We got this Center. It's gut, but we could have more.
Hood: The Exarchs had sponsorship. They say Archon's daughter lives in luxury on Patmos or some island, in a manor worth more than all of Southside.
Damned: Mo'Nique's gossip show is full of crap... Sorry Stephanie.
Justice: They had a space base. They had pensions. They saved a couple of corporations-
Abraxas: Just think of sex we could have.
Damned: What the f***, man?
Abraxas: Didn't you think about it? Space. Sex. (He grins at Hood). Us together there- it'd be flaming. You want?
Hood: (shaking her head and grinning). No. I'm not f***** interested... and you're an idiot--you don't even know what you implied. I sometimes forget you don't know American idioms.
Abraxas: What? Our sex would be flaming- you get real hot when you're passionate- flames shoot out.
Hood: No longer amusing. Shut it.
Justice: We have a superjet- it even flies itself- I say we use it.
Damned: We got someone to pay for gas?
Justice: It runs on fuel cells and solar.
Damned: Same shit.
Justice: It will come in handy.
[/ic]

[spoiler=Message to Aedan Corcaigh]
Greetings Mr. Corcaigh:

I appreciate your concern. If you feel comfortable disclosing the nature of how you came to the conclusion that a "Spirit Hunter" appeared in Atlanta, when you are located so far distant, or could provide any more details on exactly how one would detect such a creature, that would be appreciated. Is there a reason that your Circle directed its eye towards Atlanta?

I do appreciate the warning and the advisement, but with the proper information, I am sure that we, Atlanta's protectors, can adequately deal with the situation. I will not forbid you to come to Atlanta, for I am not an immigration officer, but I hope you understand that we are well equipped to defend our own. I trust that during your visit you will be wary to not frighten the local populace; you seem like a thoughtful person, It would distress me to be informed by local authorities that any distress was caused by your visit. I will let them know of your impending arrival.

Sincerely:
JUSTICE.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Phone Call to Chief of Police David Marcus]
Justice: Marcus.
D.M.: What is it?
Justice: Got a spicy one coming in. Did some research- guy, Aedan Corcaigh, calls himself a Druid. Leads the Corcaigh's Circle- super group out of Ireland, I guess.
D.M.: It a social call?
Justice: Says there's a ghost-
D.M: I'm gonna stop you right there.
Justice: Just wanted to let you know he says he's coming and to keep your eye on him; we'll do likewise. Don't know if he's cool or not.
D.M.: F***ing ghost.
Justice: I dunno. Talk later.
D.M.: Yeah, right.
[/spoiler]


[spoiler=Email to Mr. Ward]
Mr. Ward, I am sorry. No one should live in fear. We all value the work you do, but without more information we cannot act as 24-hour security. Thunder is a dull roar that roars forth to eradicate ongoing crime- it is there before the perps feel the lightning- Thunder cannot afford to sit and wait. I am sure that the police can provide you adequate protection.

We will focus our efforts on rooting out gang violence--with luck, those are the enemies that are threatening you. If you know of any powerful enemies you may have recently made, then by all means please let us know and we will focus on them.

Sincerely:
JUSTICE.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Another Phone Call to Chief of Police David Marcus]
Justice: Marcus.
D.M.: You've seen a ghost?
Justice: No.
D.M.: What is it?
Justice: The D.A. Mr. Ward-
D.M: Yeah.
Justice: He wants protection. Been getting death threats. Specific ones. Asked us. Seems more like your purview.
D.M.: Paranoid.
Justice: Can you arrange something for him?
D.M.: I'll see about it.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Email to NEMESIS II, Leader of the Furies]
Greetings from Atlanta. I am Justice, commander of Thunder, the defenders of Atlanta.

I have important news:

but first, commiserations on the passing of your mother; she was a vital pillar who did much to knit together the fabric of this fragile world. She is an exemplar of what we should be- unafraid to end evil where it stands using the full extent of force that is necessary to get the job done, to protect the innocent, and to preserve the peace.

I have come to learn that a Golem is active in Iphegenia.

You likely are already aware of this development. I write to offer what knowledge I have of how we defeated two previous Golems. I hope that you will find this information useful, for the Golems are vile, rancorous, devastating emotionless bulldozers. A Golem exists primarily for destruction--it smashes buildings, it pulverizes streets, it leaves a ditch in its wake and twisted metal on all sides. It leaks corrosive fluid as it moves, fluid that burns and kills the land. From what we gather, its creator, the Master, is an Aramaic and Hebrew scholar who has somehow been able to animate the creature's clay. We know not its true purpose but the second Golem we destroyed was far more powerful than the first. Its weakness is the clay tablet that is inserted in its mouth- that tablet, which has the Aramaic and Hebrew writing and mystical designs, seems to give its orders. When we first destroyed a Golem, we severed its head and the body ceased motion... but the head twisted to its side and rolled a path of destruction. The Second Golem had a neck that was reinforced, but we managed to superheat the tablet. I fear that this Third Golem, being a creature of clay and the kiln, may be hardened still more against heat.

If you discover any lead on The Master, we will be glad to pursue it. If he is stopped, no more Golems will be made.

If you have inquiries, I will respond.

Sincerely,
-JUSTICE.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=TWO (Furies)]

I appreciate your thoughtfulness in passing on any information you learn about the Master.

We do not know what this Master seeks, but it seems to be tied to Kaballistic Magic and Hebrew apocrypha given that there are many symbols of that type carved upon these Golems and their clay inputs.

Sincerely,
-JUSTICE.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Orders]
* Justice Researches this "Spirit Hunter", how to identify it, how to kill it, any crimes that may be linked to it and how to track it from there. (Forensics research). This may not turn up much given that Occult is probably the key category, but he's focusing on what he is familiar with. He is using his Lab for this to be a half action. (Note also, Mentor gives a +4 to Investigation).

* Abraxas and Hood pursue, with extreme prejudice: New Boss, Same as Old Boss: This new crime boss could be a serious problem. An attempt could be made to take down some of the minor gangsters working for him to get a lead, or maybe even catch...whoever he is. (+20 Wealth, -1 Doom Counter)

* The Damned and Justice (with his half action) fulfill Extra Patrols: With the rise of this new criminal network, it may be good to remind people of who their protectors are. (+20 Rep, -2 Doom Counter)

* Abraxas also wants to get in Men's Health, GQ (unlikely they would accept), Playgirl, or a similar magazine to celebrate his fine physical body. He wants a photoshoot and story about his exercise regime and notes that he is currently single. Hope: Reputation +1 to 5; If cannot do it now, setup for next turn. Not intend to do this as a full action. Ideas: He may need to do a media or manipulate roll to see if he can make the right contacts, if he fails, then a gossip columnist insults him and the team takes a -1 to -3 Reputation hit.
[/spoiler]

[sparkletwist]

[ic=The Hunt Begins]
A glass storefront shatters into an explosion of glittering, razor-sharp fragments. A car alarm blares, and a moment later is silenced and suppressed by the booming roar of the car it was attached to flipping over in an explosion of smoke and fire. Through the haze of smoke, four forms emerge. There is a certain feminine quality to their appearance, but in the bulk of the power armor they wear, it's rather difficult to be certain.

Aurora leads the way, her gold and silver armor shining under the bright sun. With a high-pitched buzz, Sol Invictus charges up. She throws the disc with a practiced grace and power; a fraction of a second after it leaves her hand, it ignites into a searing ring of energy, slicing through anything in its way as effortlessly as a hot knife through butter. By now, everyone on the street has long since scattered and run for cover, which is just fine with Aurora-- she has no interest in harming the common people of this world, but she isn't willing to permit them to get in her way either.

The authorities of this world are another matter. They always get in the way. Even now, two police cars with sirens screaming descend upon the scene. More will certainly follow. The police quickly exit their vehicles, taking cover behind them and opening fire with their handguns-- their bullets plink harmlessly off the suits of Kavacha Aegis power armor worn by the Huntresses, of course. Most anti-tank weapons would plink harmlessly off of these suits, for that matter. Aurora and her team mostly ignore the police, although a friendly smile and a wave from Luna causes them to stare dumbfounded at her for a few moments before they continue firing. She has too much fun doing that.

Their target is a man in black, half his face covered with strange cybernetics, some sort of energy weapon in his right hand. It fires white-hot scathing beams of plasma that blow up anything in their path. That, on the other hand, might leave a mark... so the team instead leaps upward, trying to get the drop on him. He fires at Aurora and Minerva, but he misses Flora, perhaps the fastest of all of them, her energetic lightning-blades extending from her wrists. She strikes him squarely in the side with one, sending him flying backwards. He returns fire with his beam, but Flora leaps out of the way, and then Minerva is on the scene, sending him flying once more with a wave of force emanating from her own weapon, Astra.

With a loud thud, he crashes into the side of a building, leaving a huge dent and sending cracks all the way up the side of it. Aurora walks up to him slowly, methodically. She draws her plasma pistol and points down it at his face with her right hand, while Sol flies back into her left. She addresses him in her native language-- both of their native language. "Mane en ephehins deha. Parai." (Give me an excuse. Please.)

He looks up at her, sighs, and puts his hands up.
[/ic]

[spoiler=To the Furies]Your threats are meaningless and idle. We have no interest in your affairs and we care nothing for fugitives not on our target list. Apprehend whomever you can and will within these parameters.

You are likely aware that an impostor Nemesis has appeared. While this may seem to be a matter of concern for you, this individual is on our target list. Therefore we will deal with the matter. This is of mutual benefit as after we have resolved the matter it will no longer trouble you. However, do not interfere.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Reply to the Furies]We do not understand why you continue to make threats, particularly threats that you have no hope of carrying out. We are not your enemy, unless you choose to make an enemy of us. Given that you seem to have enemies in plentiful numbers already, this would be a foolish and tactically poor decision.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Orders]All four Huntresses will go to Iphigenia and attempt to track down and apprehend the false Nemesis. This is likely to be a high priority for the Furies so this matter must be dealt with before they can interfere. The four will split up within the city but remain in constant communication and stay within range so that they may assist one another if necessary. Of course, the Huntresses will show their usual (complete lack of) regard for public property and safety. If any actual Furies interfere, the Huntresses will show them the magnitude of their firepower and demand immediate surrender. Since there may be confusion as to who is the "real Nemesis" and the "fake Nemesis," if in doubt, the Huntresses will apprehend and secure both of them and try to figure it out via interrogation (aided by Luna's talents) and reasoning. Any detained Furies should be treated well and released as soon as it's safe to do so, as they are not fugitives and the Huntresses have no interest in making enemies needlessly. They will attempt to find out any information they can, though. While there, Minerva will also attempt to look into the matter of the Starsword, as long as it seems the other three can handle the Nemesis matter.
[/spoiler]