[ March 3, 2121 - 9:38 PM ]

Five hours. For five solid hours the beast had been terrorizing downtown New Haven. Powerful jaws with razorlike teeth, claws sharp enough to gouge steel, and muscles that could easily lift a streetcar. But this wasn’t just any beast; the Variant known as Behemoth had gone rogue from N.O.V.A.’s special task force...and not just rogue, but on an all-out rampage. Ravaging block after block, shrugging off bullets and feeble attempts at sedation, letting his feral rage drive him. After four deaths and countless injuries, he had finally been subdued by using an armored truck as a battering ram and 5-inch thick steel rope as a makeshift straitjacket.

N.O.V.A.’s Strike Initiative, a special task force of Variants meant to aid in law enforcement, had been in a shaky state since its inception for various reasons. It had become more of a liability than an asset, and was under heavy fire despite the drop in crime rate. The stress of the job and the treatment from the government as well as the public had pushed one of the more dangerous members, Behemoth, over the edge. He lost control of his power, transforming into his beast form without being able to change back. He basically stopped caring about the welfare of ‘normal’ humans and his abilities took over and did the rest.

It was after this tragedy that N.O.V.A. finally decided to pull the plug. Behemoth was shipped to a secret, secure prison, and the acceptance of Variants would severely decline. And with the ‘threat’ of a superpowered task force removed from the equation, it became open season for any and all criminals, normal and Variant alike.

---

[ Present day: May 16, 2126 - 7:04 PM ]

The scene was complete chaos. Police and news crews swarmed the bank as several helicopters hovered overhead. The members inside were being held hostage as the thieves prepared to escape with their newly swiped riches. This had been the third bank robbery within a month’s time and was looking to be one that would end with casualties. SWAT had been called in several minutes before and were in route.

-----

Manny sat in his apartment with his hands folded, elbows resting on his knees, and his face frozen in contemplation. The spectacle unfolding on the screen was both disturbing and compelling. The need to intervene and the apprehension to do so were waging a war inside his head.

“You should help them, Manny,” his brother Ellis said as he rolled into the room. Manny let out a heavy sigh and slightly tilted his head as Ellis parked his chair. “You can’t just sit back every time and do nothing.”

Manny finally lifted his gaze to his older brother. “The police are there, El. They can handle it.”

“You mean just like the last couple of times…”

“It’s not my job, bro.”

“But it’s perfectly fine to patrol the streets at night like some neighborhood watchmen.”

“You know that’s different...besides it’s not like they would welcome me with open arms and wave me in. Vigilantism is still illegal. Plus, I’m not bulletproof. You’d either be visiting me in a prison or a cemetery.”

“Well…” A defeated look washed across Ellis’ face as he turned back to watch the news. Manny shrugged apologetically and glanced up at the screen himself. For a moment, he considered himself a coward, but he shook off the notion after the realization of the risks involved with using his abilities in such a public way settled in his mind. In uneasy silence, the two brothers continued to watch the events unfold onscreen.

Kit Kat was watching the entire thing unfold in her studio, her mouth dry as she stood in the middle of safety. It was like this every day, something always happened, someone always got hurt, and variants were going to be the ones to blame in the end. The red head found herself biting her lip, seconds ticking by to horrid minutes before she marched herself into the other room. "Fuck it!" She cried, slamming down her laptop and pulling out her camera. The lense capturing her messey face as she pulled a peice of lettece out of her teeth before she turned on record.

Pulling up her live stream, she done the only thing she could. The ability to piss off her agents and business partners while trying to do things her way. "Aright, time for me to be the word of justice or some cheesy thing like that. Hey guys, you see what's going on, I know at least one of you are watching that could put a stop to this. We gotta stick together, you hear me! Make everyone do a double take and realize that variants are way more useful than the cops." A smirk appearing on her features she leaned forward, I've done it once I'll do it again. Hey vigilantes, Inverse, Nevermore, Tank, someone out there. You guys get caught, I'll pay your bail, just don't get caught, I actually like you guys. We all know this broken city needs people like you guys to keep the place up."

She was already seeing flame wars start under her feeds. Words of encouragement and death threats alike falling all through her pages as they jumped on the fact that the singer was at it again. All she did was wave at the camera and take a drink of coffee before turning it off.

---

It was like a calling card, all Kaite had to do was ask and there would be at least one person to show up. She was standing on a roof top, a small phoenix on her shoulder, peering down with a peirceing gaze at the world below. The sirens echoing through the streets, someone pleading on a megaphone only to be drowned out by the looming clip of helicopter blades that took over her hiding spot like a shadow.
It was a good time to test out her abilities again. But lives were on the line here, she only had one shot. Her cane in hand she gave it a comforting squeeze, the raven mask donning her features, peering from the overhung shadows ever so delectably before she reached up and ran her fingers through the feathers at her side. "Leaving behind a thought for not, never one to be caught, forever looking for it's head, it will find what it needs to mend."

She could already feel the humm of a summon, the echoed call of her companion as it took it's place below. Vanishing into the crowed and blending in perfectly as a simple black hound. "Look long, till the early marrow my friend, for we must find our allies." Ally, a loose term to say the least, it was rare for Nevermore to ever work with someone. But in such a public setting, she doubted she would be leaving her spot, but she's more than willing to lend a hand with what she has.

The beast was already moving away, testing their boundires to see if the Dullahan could truly keep her illusion up while leaving her master's side. Her nose was already to the ground, keeping her command to a loyal detail as she searched for more vigilantes that could be waiting for a time to strike.

[March 16th 2126 - 3:35pm]

No matter how hard I try, I always end up coming back to Wonderland. It was one of many shithole bars in this giant cesspit of the city, but at least the drinks are cheap and the clientele are honest... at least more so than much of the scum you see round here. You see to much in my kind of work to believe in the goodness of humanity.

My client died today. Killed, as a warning for me to stop digging my nose into the matters of the Falconis. That's the third time this month, and they were the few people brave enough to ask for help. As I always said, life looks a lot better through the bottom of a glass. Speaking of which...

I tipped my glass in the direction of Alice, the damn fine owner of this crap heap. Such a shame that she batted for the other side. "Another drink, if you'd be sho kind," I said, a slight slur entering my voice, "I need to drown my sorrows..."

ALICE

Wonderland was almost empty for the moment, with a few early birds settling in for their first rounds. There is a single man at the counter, seemingly unmoved by the comings and goings of the patrons. Another one to drown his sorrows, Alice muses as she moves to take his glass. It isn't unusual for a man or two to be in the bar, although considering the very female clientele they were few and far between. She remembers seeing this particular man before and the bar is slow, so she decides he means no harm. Alice deftly mixes a fruity drink for a girl down the counter and then starts on the empty glass for her melancholy customer. "You are starting to become a regular, ya know?" She moves to the whiskey shelf, pausing to check her selections before grabbing a bottle of Makers Mark. " Remember, be nice to the girls and if you aren't getting a cab you can rent a room upstairs." She slides the glass of whiskey back to her patron. She leaves him the bottle and goes to wipe down the tables before the impending rush, casually glancing at the small tv in the upper corner of the bar. Its muted but seems to be showing news coverage of a bank heist. Alice returns to the counter and grabs her cellphone.
Text message- to: Wren
You better be safe. Keep out of sight.

Jason Graves stood near the police line, trying to keep a close eye on the goings-on inside the bank. His hood was up, partially obscuring his face from cameras and prying eyes, just in case he needed to run in. He hoped he didn't have to. This was wrong. This was so far outside of his usual MO. Still early, crowds, cops, this was the opposite of how Overclock worked. Hell, if he hadn't been cutting through this street to get home from work more quickly, he wouldn't even be here. But the tension was building, and if something didn't happen soon... Those guns might not be for show anymore.

Jason glanced up to the rooftops as he felt sense of calm suddenly settle over him. he breathed a sigh of relief, his eyes scanning the skyline. Emma was up there somewhere. She'd be trying to defuse the situation too, in her own way. The second set of eyes was welcoming, and Jason knew she had him on speed dial if they needed to get in touch. Reaching into his hoodie pocket, Jason's real hand closed comfortingly around his folded staff, ready to strike.

Something caught Jason's eye then, pulling his attention from the bank. At the edges of the crowd, a black spot in the sea of bodies. Shifting closer to get a better look, Jason saw the form of a large black dog. No collar, practically silent. Feral dogs weren't unheard of in New Haven, but for one to be here, in this crowd? This early in the evening? Jason edged closer to the beast, noticing that it had some kind of... Unreal quality to it. Something wasn't right about that dog.



Emma Graves, the younger sister of the vigilante in the streets below, was having her own staredown. She had initially transformed into her angelic form in a small alleyway, not realizing that the cramped space was a bad idea with her 30 foot wingspan. Squeezing out of the far end of the alley she had run a few streets down before taking flight, hoping to be far enough from the bank that she attracted little attention. It seemed to have worked, and she glided low over the rooftops, coming to rest a moment later on top of a rooftop garden overlooking the bank. Close enough that her peaceful aura would begin affecting at least some of the crowd, but not so close that she could draw attention.

That was when Emma noticed the other figure. Just across on the next rooftop, blending in with the shadows under an overhang, was a costumed figure. Like some sort of phantom the raven-faced being stood silent and still, seemingly watching over the square. Angel looked around at the other rooftops, which seemed to be empty for now, before deciding to take the chance. She took off sprinting towards the edge of the roof, leaping off as her foot pushed against the ledge. Her wings unfurled and caught the breeze, sending Angel soaring across the gap and landing solidly on the other side. A quick glance to the skies showed that the choppers and drones still seemed preoccupied with the bank, though that could change at any moment. Moving slowly towards the figure, Angel hissed through her teeth to try and get the others attention. "Hey! Hey, you, Raven-Face! What are you doing up here?"



Jessica Beadle stood in the middle of the crowd, her arms crossed and a pout on her young face. This was so uncool. She had been planning on hitting this bank next week, after the heat from her last robbery died down. But here these morons were, hitting a bank in the middle of a high alert and ruining it for her! Not to mention the hostage situation, and the obvious panic inside the bank. Amateurs.

Tapping her foot impatiently, Jessie pulled her long brown coat around herself tighter. Her phone buzzed to life and a message blasted into her ears through the ear buds she had added to her ensemble, making her wince with the sudden noise. Kit Kat was online, blasting out a message... A call about this very bank, asking for help from... People like herself. Jessie grinned and cricked her knuckles, shivering in anticipation as she felt the slight release of static electricity from her hands. Score some brownie points and get these goons to back off her turf? Yes please...



Oscar Fonatine stalked the edge of the police barrier like a tiger stalked the wall of his enclosure at the zoo. This was a nightmare. Any one of a million things could go wrong at any one of a million moments. First priority; the hostages. Second priority; crowd control. Third priority; the robbers.If he had to, Officer Fontaine knew he would put himself between the robbers and the hostages. He just had to get there first. The hostage negotiator was bumbling his way through the handbook, and not a damn thing was working.

They'd have to send in a team soon, and Oscar knew he'd be on it even if he didn't volunteer. His 'brothers' in blue had nothing to lose by sending him, and everything to gain. Either he pulled off another miracle, take down every one of those bastards without a single fatality; or it'd be his body on the floor. And then the corrupt police force of the city would finally be rid of him, the biggest thorn in their side since Wulf had left the force.

She did not move when she heard the fluttering of wings, the rustle of feathers as she leaped from platform to platform. Whoever this was, she was in a defence. The movements and breathing enough to tell Nevermore that whoever was near her was around her age, maybe a little younger, maybe a little other, it was hard to tell.
She was about to take a step back, creep closer to the over hang till she realized that the figure was approaching. Her head still facing the chaos below, she found a small smile creeping to her features at the words. "No need to try and wage fear, I am no fiend, I simply offer a hand to those who wish to take it." Aurora was bad at intimidation, but whoever this woman was, was indeed quite close to the same problem as herself. "Do you wish to help?"

Faux was quick to alert her to Dullahan, flapping his feathers, the brilliant hues of reds and violets cascaded over the creature like a setting sun. The faintest cry brushing against her senses like a breeze. "Our friend found one? Tis good to hear." Her hand reached up to pet the beast, more to calm her own nerves than his as she began to whisper her words. The sounds carrying off in the awaiting wind to be greeted by her companion below. "Let thy gaze be known..."

The dog was already walking to Jason, it's gaze looking right up to him as the creature sat as close to the male as he could. The words of it's master ringing in it's ears as a hum of their connection flown through it's body like a careful pluck of a string. It's eyes gaining a flash, only to wisp into nothingness before appearing again, erased only to be repainted. It was a small glimpse in the illusion, just enough to tell him that it's the work of someone else.

~Oh hell. What am I about to get myself into.~

It was this same thought that had been running through Girard's head as he surveyed the police line as well as the crowd behind it. He stood just inside one of the alleyways within eye shot of the whole debacle in his vigilante getup though he had his face mask up for the time being while he was alone. The plan in his mind was of course to be inside of that bank to get himself in between the robbers and the hostages but that was easier said than done with all of the cop presence surrounding the place. By the state everything was in he could tell things were not going well just by how nervous some of the officers were let alone the regular people watching to see just what was going to happen, the atmosphere was not a pleasant one nor would it continue to be if no one intervened beyond the police. From what he had seen in recent years they just couldn't manage all of this anymore which is why he did his nighttime escapades in an effort to put as many of the criminals in their place as he could which is what he had been planning to do before this whole mess.

The big man got his mask back on and maneuvered his way further up though the alley to get closer overall to the bank trying to get an idea of where the baddies on the inside were. If he knew that much positioning himself to get at them would be simpler as he could easily strike or go through a wall to get a jump on the offenders. There was little chance he could just sneak into the place with all the attention surrounding the bank, not to mention his powers left him about as subtle as a wrecking ball unless he could set up ahead of time. He looked up at the helicopters moving overhead cursing them in his mind as getting around was made much more difficult when the cops had air support especially for someone as well know to them as Tank. The big guy sighed figuring he was going to have to get some distance and loop back around to get near any of the adjoining alleyway that could get him next to the bank noting another helicopter as well as a large feather that landed smack dab on the front of his helmet. He really hoped it was just a big seagull or something and pushed it out of his mind for the moment as his phone vibrated prompting him to have a quick look.

The screen flashed up a certain Kit Kat's live stream for all there was of it which got a chuckle out of Girard before he turned it off and placed it back into his pocket. ~Wouldn't miss this for the world.~ He thought knowing there was no place he would rather be than ready and able to help the people of New Haven regardless of the risk. Sure he wasn't exactly on the legal side of things but he felt as if this was the only way he was going to get anything done while keeping himself out of the spotlight. The big guy wasn't the type to grandstand preferring to get it done and over with so he could enjoy the feeling of having done some good. Unlike the usual though he was going to end up more out in the open tonight with the public which had him glance out at the crowd again though he noticed something else that hadn't occurred before. Why in the hell was there a stray dog running around in all of this commotion and what was it doing here? It really was strange and it seemed focused on one guy in particular if he saw right but now wasn't exactly the time to question every strange thing he saw, he had to get himself over to that bank before shit hit the fan.

The big man got some distance from where the cop's perimeter would be and checked to see how attentive the cops were on the particular street he needed to cross. Honestly they seemed far more concerned with what was going on behind them than their post so he quickly jogged across the gap while he had the chance. It occurred to him that he may or may not have been the only vigilante, or active one at least, on the site but he couldn't see any telltale signs of one of the others hanging around, not that he had seen many in the first place. If they were watching he had just been particularly visible a moment ago though he hoped if anything he could keep the attention off of them once this started rolling, better to have the shots coming at him than anyone else.

---

Just below the streets of the ongoing bank robbery one very cranky Variant was awake and not happy about it in the slightest not to mention hungrier for it. Donovan McMillian was sat up against a cement wall rubbing his temples because the sirens and alarms above were giving him the biggest headache ever since some idiots decided to rob a bank where he had previously been sleeping. He decided to had a couple of his smallest worms get up to street level so he could see why in the hell the assholes in blue hadn't moved on yet. Truth be told he knew why already, most of them were so incompetent that vigilantes had to become a thing to maintain some form of order in this city. Of course they could always find time to go harassing people like him powered or not because what else better did they have to do eh? Not like there were actual problems to solve around the city like the crime rate or people treating Variants like animals. No not at all.

Abomination closed his eyes and allowed himself to see through his tiny symbiotes above, one meant to stay outside on the street to track progress of the 'law enforcement' while the other one snuck itself under the door of the bank to let him see what was going on there. He gave a little more guidance to the one inside having it climb up on one of the walls to get a better view, far better than a fly on the wall in this case and almost impossible to see from any sort of distance. This was far more involved than he usually got with most of the major crime far preferring to pick off weak groups on the regular to get himself some money or food. After all the day to day was far more concerning to him than some rich prick's bank account because he was a scavenger at the best of times and stole from criminals at worst. Not like they really needed it, prison gave three square meals anyways and plenty of like minded idiots to beat up or otherwise.

Admittedly Donovan didn't want to see the hostages get hurt but he was in a bad mood and in no hurry to move so he would sit this one out. Not to mention showing his face would probably trigger a manhunt for him in the tunnels/surrounding area once they were done dealing with the robbery. So staying where he was and observing was a win-win which was more than pleasing to the agitated man though if any of them tried to escape down his way letting off a bit of steam never hurt he supposed. ~Showtime.~He thought settling himself in for whatever might happen in the meantime.

On top of a building opposite the bank, Ryteb clicked his tongue in annoyance. How could those idiots do something so... boring. Moreover, this would hurt everyone who patronised the establishment, not just the rich fat cats who abused their power. Perhaps the Fire Fox should put these bastards in their place...

---

Quickly changing into his dashing costume, he cursed the fact that he didn't have time to create a more elaborate entrance, so he'd have to make due. Throwing a ball of plasma into the air, it exploded into a giant fox shaped firework. Using two spurts of fireworks near his feet, he illuminated himself to attract the attention of everyone around.

In a big stage voice, and hijacking the local radios, he announced himself.
"Citizens of New Haven, the Fire Fox will put an end to these miscreants desercating the name of good thievery. Make sure to get some good seats to enjoy the spectacular event."

After saying that, he appeared to walk over thin air to the bank, more fireworks going off all around so that the police couldn't get a clear shot at him. When he was atop the roof of the bank, he made some new illuminations and grinned towards the news cameras.

"Tonight, the fox will save the henhouse!" He proclaimed, as he raised his wand and created another fiery fox, this time over the bank building. You had to give the folks a good show, after all, they are giving you their attention.

“Okay, maybe you were right, but you were still being paranoid! This is a complete … at least one in one hundred chance!”

“Considering the state of affairs since Behemoth, and that this is the third bank robbery this month…”

“That just means they’re idiots. Look at the scrawny shit over there – that rifle is going to knock him onto his ass the first time he fires it. Must have a small dick.”

“Impeccable observational skills, as usual, Miss K.”

“And why are you calling me that-“

“Quiet!” The barking command of one of the thugs watching over the hostages caused Zoey’s gaze to darken, quite literally as black cracks began to web out from her pupils. The redhead’s muscles coiled as though to spring, but before she could so much as twitch a hand was grasping onto the sunglasses hanging from her white shirt collar and yanking her down, keeping her considerable frame hunched over.

“I could take them out right now,” Zoey hissed between her teeth, shoulders rolling with pent up aggression and jaw clenched. Jasper merely shook her head subtly, even as the weight tucked into a holster at her side weighed heavily. It was too risky. It was too risky in the first place to even come here. The hostages, themselves included, were herded like cattle in a far corner of the main bank floor hidden from sight of the front glass doors of the bank – or more accurately, like fish in a barrel. At first sign of trouble the loyal bodyguard had nudged and herded Zoey to the back, keeping the young billionaire away from prying eyes that might take advantage of the situation. So far it seemed to be working, the whimpers of their fellow hostages covering up the details of their whispered conversation.

The situation wouldn’t last, however. The flashing lights of the police were obvious outside, and more than that the pacing and growled conversations between the half dozen men angry and panicked. Occasionally one of the hostages was taken from the group – the apparent speaker for the group seemed to have a fascination with using a pretty brunette teller as a meat shield during negotiations. Every time he came back angrier, and the men’s movements became antsier. One wrong move on either side could lead to-

Was that explosions?

No, not quite. More flashes joined the police outside, brighter and more colorful. From the higher windows it could be seen as… fireworks. Someone was setting off fireworks. A very specific someone, who’s name proceeded them, the announcement almost unnecessary. Zoey closed her eyes and tried to fight off the rising headache on top of her hangover - and the reason for coming in here.

"All I wanted was smaller bills for a kebab..." She muttered under her breath, it drowned out quickly by the now panic fueled robbers.

“It’s one of the freaks!”

“Fuck me, I am not getting into a fire fight with one of them.”

“Then make him back off – fuck, make them all back off, the swat team is probably incoming too!”

“How?”

“Show them we’re serious.” With that sudden proclamation the scrawny man of the group turned to the group of hostages, eliciting screams as he hefted the heavy weapon in his hands to point at one of the men. Near the back of the group Jasper grabbed onto Zoey’s arm, but the redhead’s eyes already flashed to pure black and with a twist of her wrist the man’s shadow rose up just enough to strike out against his ankle, tossing him to his back with a startled yelp as his semi-automatic weapon went off, creating a line of holes in the ceiling.

Jasper could only silently curse, even as Zoey ducked her head to slide the sunglasses on and hide her eyes amidst the commotion. Sobs, the burglar wheezing, the others wound up and looking for threats – though luckily no one was really paying attention to their feet. Jasper glared darkly at Zoey, even as she knew that she’d never be able to stop her from heroics. Even playing the hostage. Zoey just gave a little grim smile back.

“I told you the rifle was going to knock him on his ass.”

Wren

BzztBzztBzzt txt msg- from: Alice
You better be safe. Keep out of sight.
Peeking at her phone, Wren sighed heavily. What could possibly be happening in the world that was more important than Mr. Hendriks' Marine anatomy midterm? Wren scrolls to the news app, reading quickly about another bank robbery. groan Wren sighs again, long and drawn out. She really wished her aunt would stop worrying. I mean, she has a copy of Wren's class schedule in the apartment. It's not like she was ditching classes. She worked too hard picking pockets for this class, she wasn't going to waste-

Miss Monroe, you are well aware of my rules regarding phones, yes? Then you do know what being on your phone means. You may leave, you have one chance to make up this grave mistake during my office hours. I suggest you refrain from cheating in the future.

Dammit. there goes a whole days work. Guess i will head to this shitshow, see what's the deal. Grabbing her satchel, Wren slinks out of her class and takes the steps two at a time to the first floor. Stepping out the front door she makes a beeline for the bike rack.

Angel paused at the strange sight before her. The heavy costume made it difficult to tell the gender of the person in front of her, but the voice filtering out from the elongated mask sounded feminine. The strange bird-ish creature on the girls shoulder gave Angel pause, but nothing felt ominous to her. Angel prided herself on being able to read someone's intentions and this girl seemed to want to help. "I'm sorry," she said, moving closer to the raven figure and peering over the edge of the roof. "you caught me off guard and I'm kind of on edge... I'm keeping the crowd calm for now, but is there anything else we can do? If we get caught, it's NOVA for us..."

Angel trailed up as the night sky lit up in a flash of colors and shapes. Someone had just stepped off a roof opposite to them and was standing in midair! Giving a grand speech about saving the citizens... "Oh no. Oh that poor idiot. They're gonna shoot him out of the sky or take him to NOVA... But he may have just given us a distraction. What do you think?" Angel was already tapping at her ear-mounted phone to call up her brother and get him into motion.



Jason squatted beside the strange dog, reaching out to let the thing sniff at him before trying to get any closer. It was a good thing he was close as he was however, as the dog's eyes flashed into wells of darkness before reappearing, and doing the whole act again. As if it was some sort of signal. "Alright, I think I get you..." Jason muttered, moving closer. "So who do you belong to and what do you want?" He asked, curious about this turn but still suspicious.

The grandoise entrance from the Variant above made Jason straighten up and snap to attention. Bigger fish to fry and all. "Hold that though." He told the dog as his ear started ringing. With a flick of his good wrist, Jason brought up his phone display, the holographic image being displayed from the device on his ear into the empty space about a foot from his head. "Already on it, if we're moving now's the time." He said to the concerned-looking image of Angel's helmeted face. "Be safe down there, Overclock." She replied, remembering to use his codename for once. "C'mon Angel, this is me you're talking about. I wouldn't dream of it."

Hanging up the call, Jason made a beeline for the nearest alley. He dug into his pocket and pulled out a black bandana, wrapping around the lower part of his face. Pulling his hood up, the 'disguise' was nearly complete. He needed his gloves and-- Overclock ran into a brick wall of muscle. Looking up, Overclock was shocked to see the costumed visage of Tank, a local legend in this neighborhood. Overclock had never worked with him personally, but he'd seen the big guy's work. Taking a step back, Jason caught his breath and nodded up to the big man. "Tank, right? I'm a big fan." He said, digging into his backpack and pulling out a pair of black, elbow-length gloves. Tank had probably already seen the prosthetic arm Jason wore on his left side, but the gloves would help conceal him from anyone else. Finally he reached into his hoodie pocket and grabbed his staff, unfolding it to its full five foot length with a flick of his wrist. "I'm Overclock. I help clean up the streets too. Looks we got our work cut out for us tonight though, huh?"

She simply bowed her head, hand tapping her cane as she listened to the crowed. She was lucky the mask hid most of her features, the short raven started biting her cheek, scenarios and thoughts playing through her head of what could happen to the hostages. Haunting screams and gunshots bouncing through her skull like a cruel game.The building she could care less about, there are lives down there, lives that were due to be snuffed out if they did not act soon, and correctly. " Nevermore, I call forth friends of the tales of lost words, and you calm those in need yes? Tis a useful trick indeed, one that I shall be greatful for."

She could feel the pull of Dullahan, she found someone, someone they could use. With the excitement of the crowed and the police at every corner, she began to think of escape routs. There was no way NOVA was getting her, she'd sooner come out of hiding than let them grab her.
"I have some friends in the ground below the land. They seem to have found an ally, once we gather and take the humans gaze away we can ac-" Her voice was cut short, taken away from her breath as she began to listen to the world unfold before her. Everything she was worried about was unravelling in a terrifying manner.

The smell of gunpowder and the crackle of a thousand bolts, she took a step back, Fuax flapping his wings and cawing at the sky wherever the sound was. Twisting and turning, lashing out in every direction, causing her senses to grow fuzzy.
A voice at it's centre, happily calling the display a show. She felt her blood run cold as sweat dripped at her brow. "Fool" whoever this was had just put the hostages live in danger, greater danger. If whoever was inside felt cornered they would start using them as a means to show they meant business. The person sounded young, a child at best as he acted like a kid who had just gotten a new toy gun.

Hearing the woman mention the distraction snapped Nevermore's thoughts like a branch. Shaking her head, she tapped her cane to the ground, listening to her talk on the phone in hand with a male who most likely was close by. "If we wish to use this, we must move now. Confusion will only lead to alertness. If you lead, I'll cover." She pulled out her book, a thick leather bound journal as she caressed the pages with her gloved hands. Better to be ready now than later.

The Dullahan had already found herself following Overclock, the humm of her bond was wanning as they both went further away. The commands travailing as more of a whisper than a shout. Still, she stood at the male's heels, watching him change his appearance in the simplest ways only to run into another vigilant. Once again the beast vanished it's features only to reappear, showcasing the illusion before sitting at the man's side in the display it used only moments ago.

Tank kept moving through the alleyway navigating to get ever closer to the bank while having an eye out for any spare officers should they be patrolling. He had been fairly focused on the task at hand right up until he heard the first couple pops of fireworks causing him to make a quick stop to see just what was going on. From his position he could barely see the flashing lights but hearing the voice he knew well enough who this particular Variant was and though he didn't much care for the thief the man man one hell of a distraction for the crowds/cops. Would've been a shame if the guy got himself hurt in the process since he seemed to be on the better side this time around but not much could be done from here to help out even if the big guy wanted to. He shrugged and headed toward an intersection of sorts realizing he had even less time now with a show boater amidst them.

Girard hadn't been looking down when he felt a light bump against him earning his gaze as he watched a smaller man cover up what looked like a prosthetic on his arm under one of two gloves after seeming startled. Couldn't exactly blame him since it wasn't often you end up walking into someone like Tank on the streets or elsewhere, let alone outside of an active robbery. Once the man composed himself he guessed the right name and revealed who he was which was a nice relief to the big man since he was another vigilante. "Yeah that's me and your not kidding this is definitely more than a one person job with all the PD presence." Tank said looking down further and saw the same stray from before it clicking that something was definitely up but it didn't seem bad. "Whos your friend there?" He asked motioning for them to keep moving towards the building as they talked. The presence of one or possibly more other crime fighters eased the mind as dealing with this was not going to be so simple as usual and there was large margin for shit to hit the fan with or without them.

-Excerpt From The Diary of John Merci-

{May 12, 2079}

Yesterday my latest subject had reached the end of his usefulness, far too soon for my taste. It is a sad fact which I have learned in my practice of this most noble of arts, men are simply inadequate to be a canvas. On the surface they may seem a better choice, being naturally more sturdy and possessing greater mass than the fairer sex. However this sturdiness is the main problem, men are simply less sensitive than women. While in theory this means that they can take more punishment, their reactions dull far quicker. It is depressing, but I must force myself to move forward.

My serfs have sent word with the latest delivery of cattle. The accursed government has finally turned it's eyes away from New Haven. This is excellent news. Many of my important tools were too conspicuous and bulky to be moved from my home. Though I have made do with what little I have to work with, my heart has missed my city. When I was younger I could never have imagined myself to be the sentimental sort, but there is more to it than simple nostalgia. Behind the lights of New Haven, there is a darkness that calls to me. It needs me to feed it's desire to corrupt even the purest of souls.

And so, tomorrow I shall return to my city, but tonight... tonight I feasted. It had been years since I had devoured so many at once, but transporting them all would just be a waste of time. The ecstasy I felt as I drained them was impossible to describe, for no one but my glorious self has ever had the chance to experience such a feeling. It was as if liquid sunshine poured through my veins, for a brief moment awakening my heart to the world. And then I remembered why I didn't gorge on the cattle.

I felt... guilty. As if all the actions I had taken were completely immoral. For a few minutes, I considered hanging myself, but remembered that I couldn't die. Fortunately this delusion quickly off, but for a brief time I felt like the cattle. And that sickened me more than anything else in this godforsaken world.

Dante sat on another rooftop near the bank heist, nonchalantly watching the display below him. It was a bit of a relief that the police weren’t in his face for once, though this was a good bit of commotion even for someone who wasn’t a fan of the law. He wasn’t about to even try and get involved, but he wasn’t above getting a front-row seat. His rooftop perch was a perfect vantage point...and so was his position in the crowd below. He had created a clone specifically to head down and infiltrate the crowd to get different point of view. Later when he absorbed the clone, he would gain the memory of viewing the events from up close along with his current spot.

It seemed like a typical standoff for a while until a bit of movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. As he turned his head, a man a couple of rooftops over was already making a big announcement like he was the main attraction at a circus. Not a moment later, the idiot was shooting off fireworks, for fuck’s sake. At least things were going get a bit more exciting now...and after a very short amount of time, the gunshots sounded…

-----

“Shots fired! Shots fired! Where’s the goddamn SWAT team!” the police captain belted over the now panicked crowd of bystanders and officers alike.

“They’re getting in position as we speak, sir!” squawked a response over the radio.

“Tell them to hurry the hell up! I want no civilian casualties!”

The failed attempt at scaring off the cops and the freak with the explosives had only caused the tension to spike. The thieves were now in ‘last resort’ mode.

“Get up, you idiot! What the fuck was that?! Did your grandma teach you to shoot?” The leader of the squad harshly scooped up his colleague and tapped the mic on his headset. “Alright, this just got too heavy! You’re gonna have to ram it in!”

A few blocks away, an armored truck awaited the signal. Originally, the truck was just supposed to park on the outside and get loaded that way, but the heavy police presence and the strange theatrics had change things up a bit. The driver gunned it around the corner and toward the back side of the bank and hurriedly positioned the truck so that the rear end was facing the wall of the bank. In the same moment, a SWAT truck was quickly unloading several agents half a block away ready to infiltrate the bank. The driver threw the truck in reverse and slammed the gas as hard as he could as shots were fired his way. Barrelling through the brick wall, he continued to crash through the bank until he got to where his crew could load up. Reaching into the passenger’s seat, he grabbed an automatic rifle ready to return fire to the fast approaching SWAT team. Another man in the back of the truck threw the doors open to receive the payload. Mere feet from where the hostages were held, utter chaos ensued as the thieves attempted to load their haul while taking fire from the agents.

Ryteb took a running start, and jumped off the edge of the bank, using his cape to slow his fall. When he was at roughly the right distance he preformed a somersault onto the roof of the truck. Not for the first time he was grateful to his grandfather for providing him with his outfit. It was made of a highly resilient polymer that was almost completely bullet proof. Apparently he had got it from uncle Felix, who dealt in stealing and selling military secrets and equipment. This suit allowed him to stand brazenly above the truck to announce his next trick.

"Ladies and gentlemen, for my next trick I shall make the criminals escape disappear!" He said, as he waved his wand, making sparks fly to add some grandeur to the grandeur of his spectacle. Right on cue, the wheels of the truck came off with an audible bang. He then jumped down off the roof on the truck and addressed the thieves for the first time.

"Look at you," Ryteb said, with a disappointed tone, "Wrecking public property, interrupting these people's fine day, and for what? Your own greed? I do despise people with such unsightly ambitions. I'd suggest you idiots turn yourselves in before anyone gets hurt."

((Collaboration post between Korkoa and general Scales.))

Jason turned to look in the direction Tank pointed as the pair began to exit the alley, finding that that strange dog had followed him. "Oh, that..." He muttered, glancing up to check the rooftops for any more surprises. "That's a great question. It just showed up and started following me. I've noticed some odd things about it, I think it might be related to another Variant around here somewhere. Seems friendly enough though." Overclock tapped his earpiece again, sending a call out to his sister. "I'm just going to get in touch with another ally, we need all the help we can-- No Angel, I was talking to Tank, sorry." He said as Angel's helmeted face appeared on the small screen hovering in front of him. "Yeah, there's me and Tank down here, you in the sky, I think there's another one of us around here somewhere with a dog..." Jason trailed off as he saw the truck driving towards the bank and heard the shots ringing out. "Time's up, we have to go." Jason growled as he saw the fiery idiot dive down and land on the armored truck. "While they're distracted; we should get the hostages out!" He cried out before pulling his hood up and stepping out of the alley, making a beeline for the bank.

Girard raised an eyebrow as Overclock tried to explain the dog at first but figured if it hadn't troubled them yet, not to mention was related to another Variant, it probably wouldn't be a bad thing to have the pooch around. It was when the phone and holo projection showed up that he was pleased because apparently there was more backup to come should they need it. He'd make an effort to remember names after this just in case any of them crossed paths again and it was a bit more polite than 'yeah you there'. He had seen the truck a second or two ahead of Overclock who was briefing his partner a moment before making him move ahead to the edge of the alley before he heard the gunshots as well as the loud crash of the truck presumablely. The big man bolted a bit ahead of his comrade getting ready to make a bit of a noisy entrance through a side wall of the bank, quicker for them to get in that way and plenty big enough to get the hostages out. The two of them could provide cover pretty well since the civies would be funneling through behind them of course something was going to have to be done about the truck as well but that he could handle. "No time for anything complicated, I'll get us in quickly and give them something to shoot at. Get the hostages moving out the new entrance then you can back me up as needed." Tank said relaying his strategy before he picked up a bit of extra speed and made impact blasting clean through the brick wall ending up roughly between the robbers and the terrified hostages. The big man put his faith in Overclock to get the far more important job done while he charged the criminals and the escape vehicle bellowing out a roar from under his helmet for an extra intimidation factor.

"Right, get them-- Wait, I need-- No he's gone." Overclock grumbled as Tank began to charge. The smaller man didn't have much power built up, he was going to ask for a boost before Tank had started running. Riding the wake of Tank's trail, Jason dashed through the shocked onlookers, deftly leaping over the police barricades and whooping as he saw Tank in action, crashing through the wall of the bank. Skidding to a halt on the polished floors, Jason made a mental note of where the robbers were standing before moving towards the hostages. "Alright folks!" He cried over the noise inside the bank. "Cavalry's here, time to get you out!" He held his staff out in front of himself, motioning towards the huge hole in the wall. "The good officers of our fair city will be waiting out there, just keep your hands high so they know you're coming! Me and the big guy are offering cover, courtesy of your friendly neighborhood Variants!"

Oscar meanwhile, was having a Hell of a night. He'd been in the exact spot where he was stuck between the truck and the Tank, but too far from either to intercept. Yelling in frustration he keyed on his radio and called the officer in charge. "This whole thing is blown to Hell! I'm going in, we have to get those hostages out!" He didn't bother waiting for a reply before tearing the radio off his uniform and throwing it to the ground. He chased after the pair of Variants, feeling his own powers kickstart. The world around seemed to slow as Oscar felt power coursing through him. Speed, stamina, strength, toughness would all be enhanced by now. His reflexes were coming sharper, his mind opening up in new possibilities. Tank; seemingly invulnerable and super strength. Good street reputation for the most part. Despite his size, nobody knew who he was. Overclock; seemingly invulnerable as well, strength seemed to differ between accounts. Leaned a bit more violent than Tank, but never cruel. One possible connection to an unsolved mass murder, but considering the victims it was never pursued. This was the first time the two had been seen together. The outcome seemed hopeful.

Charging into the bank Oscar turned to confront the robbers, stepping up behind Tank. "Drop your weapons!" He bellowed, his voice echoing in the room. "Keep your hands where I can see them, nobody moves! You too Tank, and this won't end badly..." He didn't want to take either of the Variants in. He'd give them every chance to escape if he could. He didn't know if they knew that though...



Angel let out a small gasp as she heard the shots coming from the bank. She listened in to Jason filling her in before turning to address Nevermore. "We've got allies down there. Overclock, Tank, a dog I guess...? But we have to go, things are happening. Can you get to the bank? I might be able to carry you if you need it." Angel said, eyeing the distance from their roof to the bank.

Nevermore just listened, her head tilted downward as the shots rang from the building, bouncing off the walls in such an annoying sensation. "My friend...." her words soft she began to feel the twing of what Dullahan was doing, still on the heels of the variants they found. "Become the guardian of those in need..."
She was actually surprised to feel the responding humm in her veins, the clicking paws and the bray that bounded through her skull. Right, there was that at least.

Clicking her tounge she nodded when Angel asked if she needed help. They needed to go and go now. "I require nothing, come." Faux was already flapping his wings at the ready, her cane tapped to the ground, outstretched as she waited till open air fell to the object. Her bird's talons digging into her shoulders before taking to the skies and lifting her to the next rooftop. It was not the most graceful landing, her leg giving out she rolled before catching herself. Faux landing at her side and ruffling it's feathers in annoyance."Hurry or be left!"
She felt better on that roof, the bang of the gunshots vibrated beneath her feet, she could hear the screams and taste the gunpowder from bullets, the iron and sweat danced on her tongue and assaulted her nose. Here she could get a better feel of the place, find out where Dullahan is and get these people out.

Bringing out the book on her side, she opened to the leather mark before petting the bird that took it's place back on her shoulder. Words urgent yet careful as she felt them come to her. "Disperse my friend." Without a sound the bird vanished, turning into wisps of black smoke that lingered in the air for only a moment.
She could hear the sounds of running footsteps, kicking and tripping over rubble as the crowed reared in excitement, those had to be the hostages. Relief flooding over the woman she waited for her ally to join her. "Two allies, more enimes below, hostages are free to do as they wish. If we travel to the backs we may end the fiends escape."

---
Dullahan was quick to respond to the command, the dog staying close to Overclock's heels began to turn tail. Rushing to the hostages as they scrambled to leave the chaos of the bank. They were too frightened to even thank their vigilantes, only run. Far too focused on their task to notice the guns that were aimed in their direction as the other criminals were fighting to get out.
Turning to her side, paws began to change to hooves, a bray of a haunting melody echoing through the room as a headless beast acted as a shield for those escaping. Bullets embedding themselves in her side, yet her muscles only twitched as crimson fell down her sides and dripped to the floor like paint. "Become the guardian of those in need"

Tossing it's neck in the elegant arch of a prized mare, she began to rear. A bray echoing through the place causing the hostages to run faster, only to bring some of the gunmen's attention to her as she began to move. Her wounds would heal when she's dispersed, being a walking cover was no large loss from her.

Witnessing the scene, a gray haired individual in the crowd walked into an alleyway. There he pulled out his phone and called an unlisted number.

"My lord," the grey man said, "It seems the crow has come out of hiding, and the fox has started to change his targets..."

On the other side of the phone, the Count sat in quiet contemplation for what seemed like an eternity. Finally he spoke, in a deathly tone which was surprising given the youth of the voice.

"We shall have to move up the ceremony of ascension. Tell the others to prepare the sacrifices and the chosen."

The grey man gulped audibly, "Of course my lord, as you wish."

Absently, while looking at the rubble strewn across the floor and the deafening cacophony of gunfire in her ears, Jasper wondered if the bank would’ve just preferred the robbery went off without a hitch. Money, just like walls, were insured but probably wouldn’t leave the doors closed for repairs. Of course that thought passed quickly and fleetingly, as most of the blonde’s focus was on keeping her companion from doing something rash. Even with the sunglasses in place Jasper could see how Zoey’s brows furrowed and her jaw clenched, no doubt itching to lash out again. The first incident was bad enough, and they were lucky that things sprung into action directly afterward. Even if Zoey looked distinctly displeased at the appearance of Fire Fox; a relatively unknown variant that was quickly becoming quite the opposite with his pyrotechnics. A thief’s a thief, after all.

As more variants busted in however, quite literally in the very recognizable Tank’s case, Jasper realized it was time to go. Especially before Zoey’s itchy trigger finger made her react; well, more than she already did. The rather garish orange hoodie of another vigilante came into view, and of course only one person could be wearing it. They were certainly coming out of the woodwork for this one. No surprise, considering hostages.

“I believe that’s our cue, Miss K.,” Jasper pressed the flat of her palm against Zoey’s back to urge her forward, the redhead almost glowering over her bodyguard’s head before finally and reluctantly beginning to walk forward, scuttling behind the veritable wall of flesh comprising of the vigilantes and… vigilante horse?

Still not the oddest thing Jasper has seen considering who she works for, even with the missing head.

“Good luck, Overclock,” The blonde intoned solemnly, before the corner of her mouth twitched up. “Though I’m sure all of you won’t need it.” Jasper pushed Zoey forward once more, the latter huffing moodily but her face turning towards the backs of the hostages they were following. Jasper could only breathe a silent sigh of relief as they finally emerged from the front steps amidst the gawking onlookers and pathetically sparse police presence.

Of course, that could never be the end of it. That would be too simple. Even as the group was ushered behind the police barricades and towards awaiting ambulances Jasper could tell Zoey was agitated. That was to be expected, of course, but what gave her pause was the way Zoey tossed her head back to glance over her shoulder back to the bank, the way her shoulders rolled and fingers flexed. She wanted to go back. Of course she did. After all, that’s what the mask was for wasn’t it?

A deep sigh left Jasper’s lips, but her hand slipped away from urging Zoey towards the ambulances.

“Do be careful, Miss Kasimir – and make sure to change out of those clothes.” Zoey just blinked at Jasper rather blankly for a moment before a little grin lit her face, and without a further word the redhead slipped off in the commotion, disappearing into an alley – and likely, disappearing from there as well. Jasper really hoped Zoey wasn’t so eager she didn’t heed her words. Reaper showing up in the same outfit as Zoey would be an awful idea.

Much better fashion, though.