Eclektik

Pariah

[ Pariah ]

Some call us superhumans, some call us enhanced, some even call us freaks of nature.

Over time, the ‘politically correct’ term has become Variant -- as in, a variation of the normal human genome. We’re said to have an anomaly in our genetic code that allows us to manifest certain powers or abilities.

No explanation as to how or why or where this came from...either way, it’s a major source of conflict in our world.

While the world struggles to figure out what to do with Variants, the Variants struggle to find their place in the world.

There are those who want to try and maintain ordinary lives just like everyone else...perhaps use their abilities to help a few people or get ahead in life.

Some prefer to play the hero, believing that their abilities were somehow bestowed upon them for upholding some grand responsibility.

And, yet, there are those who would rather watch the world burn just to see if anything will rise from the ashes...

Apparently, a normal life isn’t an option for someone who can turn into ice or has armored skin or can read minds...too much to ask, it seems.

But with every struggle, there’s a story...and this is ours.

* * * * * * *

Organizations

N.O.V.A.

[ N.O.V.A. ]

The National Office for Variant Affairs, more commonly referred to as N.O.V.A., is a government agency that deals with Variants involving everything from public relations to legal issues to scientific research. The agency for the most part is quite professional, though, over the years, corruption has started to make its way through the system at various levels.

Variant Types and Danger Levels
N.O.V.A. uses a system to classify Variants based on their specific abilities and also by the potential threat to society that those abilities pose. This does not necessarily take into account the notoriety of a Variant, but an especially aggressive or abusive Variant may have a higher danger level than normal (if he/she has been identified).

Danger Levels
Class 1 - Low _{(oh please...are you even a Variant?)}
Variant poses no threat to others; usually possesses low level enhancement or alteration abilities; abilities may even be inherently beneficial

Class 2 - Mild _{(yeah, that guy kinda bothers me a bit...)}
Variant may be a minimal threat to persons in close proximity if abilities are abused

Class 3 - Moderate _{(hey now...you be careful with that, ok? we don't want any trouble)}
Though they may not be an immediate danger, Variant has a high potential to cause damage or harm to others

Class 4 - High _{(wait...she can do what?!...yeah, we're screwed...)}
Variant is an immediate communal threat and individuals within his/her proximity should be on high alert

Class 5 - Extreme _{(that's ok...we don't need the Earth anyway, right?)}
Variant poses a national (or potentially global) danger and should be avoided at all costs; immediate action should be taken to neutralize this threat

Variant Types
Brute - Variant with increased levels of strength and/or durability; he/she may be more difficult to harm or take down

Metamorphic - Variant can change anatomy and/or physiology, either partially or fully; can take human or non-human forms including animal, mineral, energy, or alien

Volatile - Variant has abilities dealing with fire, electricity, plasma, and any other explosive energy/force; includes corrosives

Mentalist - Variant possesses psychic abilities; can control and/or manipulate objects, people, or energy using his/her thoughts

Agile - Variant is prone to quick movements and/or fast/instant travel; he/she may possess increased levels of dexterity

Inhibitor - Variant wields abilities that can weaken and/or hinder others

Augmentor - Variant has the ability to improve the condition of themselves and/or others

Distortionist - Variant is able to alter space-time, intangible concepts, or reality as a whole

Natural - Variant has abilities that utilize and/or affect the natural world and/or animals

Architect - Variant who is able to manipulate, modify, and/or replicate matter and/or energy; some are able to construct tangible objects from energy

Notoriety
One of the primary goals of N.O.V.A. is to identify and register all Variants living within the nation's borders. Variants have no legal obligation to register with N.O.V.A., so, as one would expect, not all Variants are willing to comply with the agency's agenda, whether out of privacy or sheer rebellion. For these reasons, every Variant has a certain level of notoriety with N.O.V.A., whether officially or unofficially.

Unknown - individuals who have been recognized as Variants but have yet to be identified by N.O.V.A.

Watched - Variants who have been identified but have not registered

Wanted - Variants who are known to misuse their abilities and pose a threat to the well-being and quality of life of others; vigilantes operating outside of the law are also considered Wanted as oftentimes their actions can cause collateral damage to people or property

Noble - Variants who have willingly given N.O.V.A. information on their identity and abilities and are licensed to use their abilities for 'altruistic and benevolent practices'

M.A.D.
N.O.V.A. employs a task force that is specially trained and equipped to handle Variant criminal activity. M.A.D., which stands for Monitoring, Apprehension, and Detainment, is a fairly recent institution that is being implemented in several major cities. Its members, which included Variants until a rather serious incident caused a policy change, are commonly referred to as MADmen. M.A.D. uses both street cameras and surveillance drones to track suspicious Variant activity. The main facility contains their central command center as well as an armory, garage, and training camp. There are also several smaller satellite 'posts' that are dispersed throughout the city to ensure a wider coverage and quicker response times.

Other Key Organizations

[ The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly ]

Pariah Underground
The Pariah Underground is a loose network of wayward Variants who have distanced themselves from society. Most Variants in the Underground have abilities that are dangerous, grotesque, or just plain odd. Members usually occupy areas that have little to no human population and some have even gone so far as to actually construct subterranean hideouts. Though some prefer to have little to no contact with the outside world, others take to the streets as vigilantes or even criminals (known as the Scourge). In any case, Variants in the Underground take extensive measures to avoid N.O.V.A. and M.A.D. as much as possible.

Chimera
Chimera is an underground tech guild that frequently engages in acts of cyber-terrorism. One of the primary goals of Chimera is to infiltrate government systems and the systems of large corporations. Though governments and corporations are their main targets, they will make attacks on citizens quite often. Chimera employs a variety of militant techies including hackers, coders, computer engineers, and even hardcore gamers. For reasons yet to be discerned, Chimera has grown increasingly antagonistic towards Variants in recent times.

The Glorious Alliance
The Glorious Alliance is an assembly of Nobles who work together for the general benefit of society. Members of the Alliance see themselves as altruists trying to better the image of Variant-kind while most other Variants view them as egotistical sellouts and showoffs. Though the Alliance claims to work for free, they have been known to accept 'gifts' and 'donations' from 'supportive citizens'.

The Syndicate
The Syndicate is an extremely well-hidden, power-hungry Variant gang that happens to be infused with a substantial amount of money. As such, they are overly discriminatory about both their member selection and their mode of operation, sticking to high-level crimes involving major organizations and institutions. They usually only work to promote their own agendas but will occasionally collaborate with others if the dealings are beneficial enough -- which is rare, to say the least. Though their funding is near untraceable by conventional means, rumors have arisen that the organization is involved in smuggling and trafficking.

* * * * * * *

General Info

New Haven

[ New Haven ]

The most ‘unique’ city in America. Vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, rich history, festivals all year. One of the greatest cities the country has to offer...if you don't plan on staying, that is. Visiting is great; living there is a whole different story. Poverty, crime, and corruption all come to light once the veil is lifted and the allure fades away. The rich enjoy the most opulent of lives, while the poor struggle to keep food on the table. The city's rising crime rates are overwhelming local law enforcement. It's like biting into the most delicious dessert you've ever tasted...only to discover it contained a deadly poison.

Key Districts

Ville Rouge
The oldest part of town which also happens to be the primary cultural hub.


Business District/Midtown
The central urban area of New Haven boasting numerous skyscrapers and several rail lines.


Vines
A historical neighborhood filled with mansions on large plantations located just south of Midtown.


Uptown
Another wealthy district with slightly smaller estates than Vines.


The Shanty
The poor area located near Bywater.


Warehouse District
Trendy and artsy district with converted brick warehouses.


Bywater
Known for its colorful street murals and bohemian vibe.


Brigitte
A broad, predominantly middle-class, and racially diverse district favored by retirees and families.


Lakeview
With its easy access to the waters of Lake Vista, Lakeview has a large sailing and boating community.


Anadine
Village across the river featuring ancient oaks and tidy Victorian cottages.


New Haven East
Raw and wild district full of marshes and wetlands with very little urban development.


Country/Bayou
The rural area on the other side of the large river that borders the city.

Rough District Map

Key Locations

Tech Alley - a popular stretch in Midtown lined with Nexus cafes, arcades, tech garages, and generally nerdy shops

1 Marshal Avenue - huge government building located in the heart of Midtown housing several departments and agencies including N.O.V.A. HQ

Battery Bridge - a large suspension bridge in the Warehouse district connecting New Haven to the neighboring city over the river

Lindsay Park - the city's largest community park located in Lakeview near Brigitte

M.A.D. Headquarters - a massive building located on the edge of Midtown near Lakeview serving as M.A.D.'s central facility. Several satellite posts are positioned in each district

Market Street - historically charming open-air market in Ville Rouge

River Street - lined with centuries-old buildings that have been converted to shops, restaurants, nightspots, and hotels. Stretches from the Warehouse district to the Bywater district

The Nexus

[ Grand Global Nexus ]

Most, if not all, computers in the world can access the Grand Global Nexus (G.G.N. or The Nexus). The Nexus is simply a vast computer network that connects several other smaller networks (what would be the ‘Internet’). The most predominant branch of the Nexus is the Transnational Databank (TDB). The TDB is a universally linked system of hypertext documents (what would be the ‘World Wide Web’) that is organized into 'datasites’ which each have a 'datacode’. The TDB is divided into five main sectors: government (001), business (002), education (003), media (004), and general/personal (005). A datacode will look like this:

::TDB.001.NOVA::
::TDB.005.Privy::
::TDB.005.blabbr::

People can also receive digital mail (d-mail) through the Nexus. A mail command will look like this:

::[e-mail]::

Popular Datasites
Blabbr - a social networking site where users post photos, short video and audio clips, and small blurbs of text
Visage - a social networking site where users create extensive personal profiles to share with others
FriendBridge - a popular communication site used to send text messages and make voice and video calls
Vivify - the top blogging site on the Nexus
Optica - the world's largest video sharing and streaming site
ChainMail - a popular d-mail provider with lots of personalization
Privy - the world's most popular and trusted news site
Reson8 - the top nexus radio site on the planet
MetaSphere - a wildly popular gamer hub
WildFyre - an underground site hidden deep in the Nexus

Top Nexus Providers
Compass - comes standard with the Solaris operating system
Vortex - has numerous customization options
Nexpress - extremely fast and reliable

Notable Tech Companies

[ Tech Companies ]

Sunrise Corporation - develops and manufactures computer software, consumer electronics, and personal computers; creator of the Solaris operating system
Panorama Industries - a major robotics and cybernetics manufacturer headquartered in New Haven
Rhoella Technologies - the world's largest manufacturer of several smart technologies including mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and televisions; helped develop the Interactive Immersive Interface (i³)

Notable Tech

Intelligent Command and Operation Network (ICON) - an AI guidance system that controls the movements of vehicles and civil robots throughout the country. Construction bots, delivery drones, and public transport vehicles are all linked to ICON.
Interactive Immersive Interface (i³) - virtual reality (i³Total) and mixed reality (i³Spatial)
Omni-Lens - eyewear that uses i³Spatial technology
Drones - any unmanned aircraft or airborne device; delivery, security, personal
E-Vap - electronic vapor cylinders used for smoking; sometimes called 'cyls’
Stingers - used to shoot intravenous drugs
Dissemblers - a small, concealable device used to make oneself ‘invisible’ to surveillance cameras; extremely rare and highly illegal

* * * * * * *

Plot Overview

Over the past several weeks, there has been a sudden influx of disappearances in New Haven, a city known for increasing levels of Variant-related crimes. All attempts by local law enforcement to solve these missing persons cases have turned up cold. Investigators who appear to be close to a solution end up disappearing themselves. Most of these have been random unfortunate victims, both human and Variant alike, with zero connections between them. Wrong place, wrong time. Lately, however, a few of those who vanished have been Nobles. When the 'best and brightest' start getting captured, it becomes a real problem. Whatever is taking place here, it can't be good at all...

Meanwhile, the tech-heads at Chimera are cooking up a little scheme of their own. Rumors are swimming around that they may be targeting a major facility in the very near future. Whether or not the sources are reliable, the very fact that these rumors have come up is raising a few eyebrows and putting several people on alert…Chimera is not to be played with.

In the wake of these recent events, an unlikely assemblage of heroes arises from the shadows to combat the rising criminal threat...

* * * * * * *

CS

Character Sheet

(insert photo here, realistic preferred)

Name |
Alias |
Age |
Gender |
Appearance | (height, weight, body type/build, identifying marks/tattoos)
Notoriety | (Unknown, Watched, Wanted)
Danger Level/Variant Type |
Abilities |

[Gear]
Attire |
Armament/Equipment |

[Temperament & Lifestyle]
Affiliation | (Pariah Underground or independent)
Personality/Habits |
Occupation/Trade |
Skills/Talents |
Family |
Background |

Blank Variant CS - Copy Me!

[center] (insert photo here) [/center]
[b]Name |[/b]
[b]Alias |[/b]
[b]Age |[/b]
[b]Gender |[/b]
[b]Appearance |[/b]
[b]Notoriety |[/b]
[b]Danger Level/Variant Type |[/b]
[b]Abilities |[/b]

[Gear]
[b]Attire |[/b]
[b]Armament/Equipment |[/b]

[Temperament & Lifestyle]
[b]Affiliation |[/b]
[b]Personality/Habits |[/b]
[b]Occupation/Trade |[/b]
[b]Skills/Talents |[/b]
[b]Family |[/b]
[b]Background |[/b]

Blank Non-Variant CS - Copy Me!

[center] (insert photo here) [/center]
[b]Name |[/b]
[b]Alias |[/b]
[b]Age |[/b]
[b]Gender |[/b]
[b]Appearance |[/b]

[Gear]
[b]Attire |[/b]
[b]Armament/Equipment |[/b]

[Temperament & Lifestyle]
[b]Affiliation |[/b]
[b]Personality/Habits |[/b]
[b]Occupation/Trade |[/b]
[b]Skills/Talents |[/b]
[b]Family |[/b]
[b]Background |[/b]

---

Cast List

Variants
Reese Raymond / Sever -- 27 -- Psionic Blade Creation/Supernatural Accuracy
Jason Zhao / Recall -- 28 -- Memory Control
Felix Pernass / Nightingale -- 27 -- Biological Manipulation (Healing)
Christine Kang / Blink -- 24 -- Teleportation
Nikolas Frost / Hybrid -- 27 -- Animal Morphing
Talia Castle / The Dreaming Sage -- 32 -- Sensory Manipulation (Illusions)

Non-Variants

NPCs
Notables

---

Notes

• If you want to play multiple characters, I’m allowing a max of two per person
• Pariah Underground and independents only...though I may allow Nobles if enough players want it (debating on it)
• N.O.V.A. / M.A.D. agents are non-playable; strictly for NPCs and background (suggestions for agents are welcome, though)
• Non-Variant characters are welcome
• Class 5 Variants are not allowed
• No villains; having a character that inherently cause trouble for others is acceptable as long as it doesn’t cause major plot disruptions (please PM me if you’re unsure about anything)
• This RP is 18+, however, keep anything overly explicit to PM’s please if it gets to that point
• This is taking place in the year 2130 in an alternate version of America
• Have fun!!!

Pariah (superhero RP)

Thanks for the interest, everyone! Looks like we've got quite few peeps here...which is awesome! @Tortoise@Kalas WIPs look good so far.

Since so many jumped on so quick, I'll have the OOC up momentarily!

Pariah (superhero RP)

[ Pariah ]

Some call us superhumans, some call us enhanced, some even call us freaks of nature.

Over time, the ‘politically correct’ term has become Variant -- as in, a variation of the normal human genome. We’re said to have an anomaly in our genetic code that allows us to manifest certain powers or abilities.

No explanation as to how or why or where this came from...either way, it’s a major source of conflict in our world.

While the world struggles to figure out what to do with Variants, the Variants struggle to find their place in the world.

There are those who want to try and maintain ordinary lives just like everyone else...perhaps use their abilities to help a few people or get ahead in life.

Some prefer to play the hero, believing that their abilities were somehow bestowed upon them for upholding some grand responsibility.

And, yet, there are those who would rather watch the world burn just to see if anything will rise from the ashes...

Apparently, a normal life isn’t an option for someone who can turn into ice or has armored skin or can read minds...too much to ask, it seems.

But with every struggle, there’s a story...and this is ours.

* * * * * * *

Organizations

N.O.V.A.

[ N.O.V.A. ]

The National Office for Variant Affairs, more commonly referred to as N.O.V.A., is a government agency that deals with Variants involving everything from public relations to legal issues to scientific research. The agency for the most part is quite professional, though, over the years, corruption has started to make its way through the system at various levels.

Variant Types and Danger Levels
N.O.V.A. uses a system to classify Variants based on their specific abilities and also by the potential threat to society that those abilities pose. This does not necessarily take into account the notoriety of a Variant, but an especially aggressive or abusive Variant may have a higher danger level than normal (if he/she has been identified).

Danger Levels
Class 1 - Low _{(oh please...are you even a Variant?)}
Variant poses no threat to others; usually possesses low level enhancement or alteration abilities; abilities may even be inherently beneficial

Class 2 - Mild _{(yeah, that guy kinda bothers me a bit...)}
Variant may be a minimal threat to persons in close proximity if abilities are abused

Class 3 - Moderate _{(hey now...you be careful with that, ok? we don't want any trouble)}
Though they may not be an immediate danger, Variant has a high potential to cause damage or harm to others

Class 4 - High _{(wait...she can do what?!...yeah, we're screwed...)}
Variant is an immediate communal threat and individuals within his/her proximity should be on high alert

Class 5 - Extreme _{(that's ok...we don't need the Earth anyway, right?)}
Variant poses a national (or potentially global) danger and should be avoided at all costs; immediate action should be taken to neutralize this threat

Variant Types
Brute - Variant with increased levels of strength and/or durability; he/she may be more difficult to harm or take down

Metamorphic - Variant can change anatomy and/or physiology, either partially or fully; can take human or non-human forms including animal, mineral, energy, or alien

Volatile - Variant has abilities dealing with fire, electricity, plasma, and any other explosive energy/force; includes corrosives

Mentalist - Variant possesses psychic abilities; can control and/or manipulate objects, people, or energy using his/her thoughts

Agile - Variant is prone to quick movements and/or fast/instant travel; he/she may possess increased levels of dexterity

Inhibitor - Variant wields abilities that can weaken and/or hinder others

Augmentor - Variant has the ability to improve the condition of themselves and/or others

Distortionist - Variant is able to alter space-time, intangible concepts, or reality as a whole

Natural - Variant has abilities that utilize and/or affect the natural world and/or animals

Architect - Variant who is able to manipulate, modify, and/or replicate matter and/or energy; some are able to construct tangible objects from energy

Notoriety
One of the primary goals of N.O.V.A. is to identify and register all Variants living within the nation's borders. Variants have no legal obligation to register with N.O.V.A., so, as one would expect, not all Variants are willing to comply with the agency's agenda, whether out of privacy or sheer rebellion. For these reasons, every Variant has a certain level of notoriety with N.O.V.A., whether officially or unofficially.

Unknown - individuals who have been recognized as Variants but have yet to be identified by N.O.V.A.

Watched - Variants who have been identified but have not registered

Wanted - Variants who are known to misuse their abilities and pose a threat to the well-being and quality of life of others; vigilantes operating outside of the law are also considered Wanted as oftentimes their actions can cause collateral damage to people or property

Registered - Variants who have willingly given N.O.V.A. information on their identity and abilities

Noble - Variants who are registered with N.O.V.A. and are licensed to use their abilities for 'altruistic and benevolent practices'

M.A.D.
N.O.V.A. employs a task force that is specially trained and equipped to handle Variant criminal activity. M.A.D., which stands for Monitoring, Apprehension, and Detainment, is a fairly recent institution that is being implemented in several major cities. Its members, which included Variants until a rather serious incident caused a policy change, are commonly referred to as MADmen. M.A.D. uses both street cameras and surveillance drones to track suspicious Variant activity. The main facility contains their central command center as well as an armory, garage, and training camp. There are also several smaller satellite 'posts' that are dispersed throughout the city to ensure a wider coverage and quicker response times.

Other Key Organizations

[ The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly ]

Pariah Underground
The Pariah Underground is a loose network of wayward Variants who have distanced themselves from society. Most Variants in the Underground have abilities that are dangerous, grotesque, or just plain odd. Members usually occupy areas that have little to no human population and some have even gone so far as to actually construct subterranean hideouts. Though some prefer to have little to no contact with the outside world, others take to the streets as vigilantes or even criminals (known as the Scourge). In any case, Variants in the Underground take extensive measures to avoid N.O.V.A. and M.A.D. as much as possible.

Chimera
Chimera is an underground tech guild that frequently engages in acts of cyber-terrorism. One of the primary goals of Chimera is to infiltrate government systems and the systems of large corporations. Though governments and corporations are their main targets, they will make attacks on citizens quite often. Chimera employs a variety of militant techies including hackers, coders, computer engineers, and even hardcore gamers. For reasons yet to be discerned, Chimera has grown increasingly antagonistic towards Variants in recent times.

The Glorious Alliance
The Glorious Alliance is an assembly of Nobles who work together for the general benefit of society. Members of the Alliance see themselves as altruists trying to better the image of Variant-kind while most other Variants view them as egotistical sellouts and showoffs. Though the Alliance claims to work for free, they have been known to accept 'gifts' and 'donations' from 'supportive citizens'.

The Syndicate
The Syndicate is an extremely well-hidden, power-hungry Variant gang that happens to be infused with a substantial amount of money. As such, they are overly discriminatory about both their member selection and their mode of operation, sticking to high-level crimes involving major organizations and institutions. They usually only work to promote their own agendas but will occasionally collaborate with others if the dealings are beneficial enough -- which is rare, to say the least. Though their funding is near untraceable by conventional means, rumors have arisen that the organization is involved in smuggling and trafficking.

* * * * * * *

General Info

New Haven

[ New Haven ]

The most ‘unique’ city in America. Vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, rich history, festivals all year. One of the greatest cities the country has to offer...if you don't plan on staying, that is. Visiting is great; living there is a whole different story. Poverty, crime, and corruption all come to light once the veil is lifted and the allure fades away. The rich enjoy the most opulent of lives, while the poor struggle to keep food on the table. The city's rising crime rates are overwhelming local law enforcement. It's like biting into the most delicious dessert you've ever tasted...only to discover it contained a deadly poison.

Key Districts

Ville Rouge
The oldest part of town which also happens to be the primary cultural hub.


Business District/Midtown
The central urban area of New Haven boasting numerous skyscrapers and several rail lines.


Vines
A historical neighborhood filled with mansions on large plantations located just south of Midtown.


Uptown
Another wealthy district with slightly smaller estates than Vines.


The Shanty
The poor area located near Bywater.


Warehouse District
Trendy and artsy district with converted brick warehouses.


Bywater
Known for its colorful street murals and bohemian vibe.


Brigitte
A broad, predominantly middle-class, and racially diverse district favored by retirees and families.


Lakeview
With its easy access to the waters of Lake Vista, Lakeview has a large sailing and boating community.


Anadine
Village across the river featuring ancient oaks and tidy Victorian cottages.


New Haven East
Raw and wild district full of marshes and wetlands with very little urban development.


Country/Bayou
The rural area on the other side of the large river that borders the city.

Rough District Map

Key Locations

Tech Alley - a popular stretch in Midtown lined with Nexus cafes, arcades, tech garages, and generally nerdy shops

1 Marshal Avenue - huge government building located in the heart of Midtown housing several departments and agencies including N.O.V.A. HQ

Battery Bridge - a large suspension bridge in the Warehouse district connecting New Haven to the neighboring city over the river

Lindsay Park - the city's largest community park located in Lakeview near Brigitte

M.A.D. Headquarters - a massive building located on the edge of Midtown near Lakeview serving as M.A.D.'s central facility. Several satellite posts are positioned in each district

Market Street - historically charming open-air market in Ville Rouge

River Street - lined with centuries-old buildings that have been converted to shops, restaurants, nightspots, and hotels. Stretches from the Warehouse district to the Bywater district

The Nexus

[ Grand Global Nexus ]

Most, if not all, computers in the world can access the Grand Global Nexus (G.G.N. or The Nexus). The Nexus is simply a vast computer network that connects several other smaller networks (what would be the ‘Internet’). The most predominant branch of the Nexus is the Transnational Databank (TDB). The TDB is a universally linked system of hypertext documents (what would be the ‘World Wide Web’) that is organized into 'datasites’ which each have a 'datacode’. The TDB is divided into five main sectors: government (001), business (002), education (003), media (004), and general/personal (005). A datacode will look like this:

::TDB.001.NOVA::
::TDB.005.Privy::
::TDB.005.blabbr::

People can also receive digital mail (d-mail) through the Nexus. A mail command will look like this:

::[e-mail]::

Popular Datasites
Blabbr - a social networking site where users post photos, short video and audio clips, and small blurbs of text
Visage - a social networking site where users create extensive personal profiles to share with others
FriendBridge - a popular communication site used to send text messages and make voice and video calls
Vivify - the top blogging site on the Nexus
Optica - the world's largest video sharing and streaming site
ChainMail - a popular d-mail provider with lots of personalization
Privy - the world's most popular and trusted news site
Reson8 - the top nexus radio site on the planet
MetaSphere - a wildly popular gamer hub
WildFyre - an underground site hidden deep in the Nexus

Top Nexus Providers
Compass - comes standard with the Solaris operating system
Vortex - has numerous customization options
Nexpress - extremely fast and reliable

Notable Tech Companies

[ Tech Companies ]

Sunrise Corporation - develops and manufactures computer software, consumer electronics, and personal computers; creator of the Solaris operating system
Panorama Industries - a major robotics and cybernetics manufacturer headquartered in New Haven
Rhoella Technologies - the world's largest manufacturer of several smart technologies including mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and televisions; helped develop the Interactive Immersive Interface (i³)

Notable Tech

Intelligent Command and Operation Network (ICON) - an AI guidance system that controls the movements of vehicles and civil robots throughout the country. Construction bots, delivery drones, and public transport vehicles are all linked to ICON.
Interactive Immersive Interface (i³) - virtual reality (i³Total) and mixed reality (i³Spatial)
Omni-Lens - eyewear that uses i³Spatial technology
Drones - any unmanned aircraft or airborne device; delivery, security, personal
E-Vap - electronic vapor cylinders used for smoking; sometimes called 'cyls’
Stingers - used to shoot intravenous drugs
Dissemblers - a small, concealable device used to make oneself ‘invisible’ to surveillance cameras; extremely rare and highly illegal

* * * * * * *

Plot Overview

Over the past several weeks, there has been a sudden influx of disappearances in New Haven, a city known for increasing levels of Variant-related crimes. All attempts by local law enforcement to solve these missing persons cases have turned up cold. Investigators who appear to be close to a solution end up disappearing themselves. Most of these have been random unfortunate victims, both human and Variant alike, with zero connections between them. Wrong place, wrong time. Lately, however, a few of those who vanished have been Nobles. When the 'best and brightest' start getting captured, it becomes a real problem. Whatever is taking place here, it can't be good at all...

Meanwhile, the tech-heads at Chimera are cooking up a little scheme of their own. Rumors are swimming around that they may be targeting a major facility in the very near future. Whether or not the sources are reliable, the very fact that these rumors have come up is raising a few eyebrows and putting several people on alert…Chimera is not to be played with.

In the wake of these recent events, an unlikely assemblage of heroes arises from the shadows to combat the rising criminal threat...

* * * * * * *

CS

Character Sheet

(insert photo here, realistic preferred)

Name |
Alias |
Age |
Gender |
Appearance | (height, weight, body type/build, identifying marks/tattoos)
Notoriety | (Unknown, Watched, Wanted)
Danger Level/Variant Type |
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Notes

• If you want to play multiple characters, I’m allowing a max of two per person
• Pariah Underground and independents only...though I may allow Nobles if enough players want it (debating on it)
• N.O.V.A. / M.A.D. agents are non-playable; strictly for NPCs and background (suggestions for agents are welcome, though)
• Non-Variant characters are welcome
• Class 5 Variants are not allowed
• No villains; having a character that inherently cause trouble for others is acceptable as long as it doesn’t cause major plot disruptions (please PM me if you’re unsure about anything)
• This RP is 18+, however, keep anything overly explicit to PM’s please if it gets to that point
• This is taking place in the year 2130 in an alternate version of America
• Have fun!!!

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Click here to join!

Annulus: Darkness Rising

So did we just lose steam here?

Annulus: Darkness Rising

– House Darthon –

Darcy stood knee-deep in the chilly waters of the river near House Darthon. She was highly frustrated as she tried again and again in vain to skewer a fish on her spear. She had decided recently that she wanted to pick up a new skill, and spearfishing had seemed like a wonderful venture since she was so close to this river. She huffed and groaned with each failed throw, and her face grimaced with her ever-growing level irritation. Ceraseth gave an audible growl of impatience as he awaited what was supposed to be his breakfast.

“Oh shut up, Cera! I’d like to see you try this!” Darcy missed yet again as she made another awkward throw. She refused to accept defeat, but she knew that time was of the essence. Remon had already gotten a whole day’s head start on her and he was most likely already well into the jungle by now. Even though she wasn’t too worried about the travel time, she certainly didn’t have time to be fumbling around in the river trying to catch fish. Reluctantly, she decided to recruit some expert help.

“Alvorion!”

A small portal severed the air directly above the river and Alvorion descended gracefully through its threshold followed by his sister, Snow. The sky drakes landed on a pair of nearby rocks jutting above the surface of the crystal water. Alvorion rolled his ebony frame in a lengthy stretch, signifying his fairly recent awakening.

“Whatever it is...it’s too early…” Alvorion said slyly.

“Spare me the smartass comments. I’m freezing and Cera and I are hungry...we need to get some fish.”

“What...did they run out of food inside?” Alvorion retorted. He could see how irritated she was already and couldn’t help but prod her.

“Alvorion...”

“Now, brother, don’t pester her. She’s doing such a remarkable job. I mean just look at the haul she’s gotten already…!” Snow motioned a nod toward a spot on the bank directly behind Darcy. There wasn’t a single fin or gill in sight.

“How about I do a ‘remarkable job’ right through your left paw!”

“Well...judging by the state of your aquatic prey, I’d say my paws are more than safe.”

“Alright, ladies, enough…” Alvorion leapt off of his rock and hovered slightly over the water. “I haven’t eaten either, so let’s hurry up and get this grub.” His eyes began to glow bright white as he conjured his magic.

“Hey, wait, you dummy!” Darcy turned and half-sprinted, half-tripped her way out of the river just in time enough for Alvorion to send a bolt of lighting crashing into the water. Several electrocuted fish floated lifelessly to the surface, and the sky drakes began retrieving them. As they collected their catch onto the shore, Ceraseth blasted each scaly snack with a plume of flames. Darcy sat with her arms folded as her draconic brood finished preparing their meal. Cera floated over to his flustered invoker and dropped a freshly cooked fish in front of her before going back for his own. Darcy calmed down slightly as she devoured her breakfast a bit too hungrily. After a moment, the fish had all but disappeared, and everyone’s bellies were full.

“Feel better now, Darcy?”

“Shut up.”

“Oh...still a little salty, I see.”

“Hmph...anyway, we have some traveling ahead of us. We’re heading to Marelda for a mission.”

“Well, don’t even think about riding this little drake. I just got finished grooming my feathers,” Snow replied abruptly, striking a regal pose.

Darcy rolled her eyes and shook her head. She didn’t even have the energy to argue. Instead, she grabbed a bit of mud from the ground and chunked it at Snow. The clod nailed the drake directly in the ribs, soiling her milky white fur.
“Rude!” Snow gasped as she flapped her wings in alarm. Alvorion immediately proceeded to go into hysterics.

“You know what...now I feel better.” Darcy smirked as she mounted Alvorion’s back and grabbed a tuft of mane. Ceraseth followed suit and curled into Darcy’s lap. “Alright, make it snappy, twinkle toes...we’re a little behind.”

Darcy winked at Snow as Alvorion spread his wings to full span and lifted off. Snow huffed in annoyance and followed shortly behind her brother.

Annulus: Darkness Rising

@Jabberwocky@Jeremor

Well, thanks for supporting my idea. Best of luck y'all!

Annulus: Darkness Rising

Also, I guess I should mention a few things about travel.

There aren't any automobiles or flying machines in this world at the moment, so all travel is by foot or mount. Runics are an obvious exception since there are numerous things they could do to travel faster, if they so choose to use their abilities in such a way.

Guilds aren't usually very close to each other, and normally take a couple of days of travel time in between them. They are well-hidden and heavily warded, so simply teleporting to them, for example, isn't really possible.

There are a few different animals used for mounts that I'll put in a list soon. Horses are a safe bet for now, though.

Annulus: Darkness Rising

@VoiD
Welcome! I'll read up on the character and shoot you a reply. Excited to see what you came up with!

@ZAVAZggg
All of the characters in the Brotherhood will be meeting at House Marelda. I probably should have mentioned that in addition to adding it to the first post. My apologies.

@PrankFox
Thanks for your interest! Looking forward to seeing your character!

Annulus: Darkness Rising

Our world is falling into ruin. The Shadow Walkers’ obelisks -- their sky-scraping towers used as home bases of operation -- are increasing in number throughout the lands. Entire cities and regions are succumbing to darkness as their evil spreads like a plague. As their power grows, we struggle to maintain the balance of order and chaos. And now, a recent discovery has increased the urgency of the matter a thousandfold. A mysterious power beyond all comprehension lurks hidden within our world, waiting to be released. We must prevent the Walkers from acquiring this power, lest the Light of the Dawn be extinguished forever.

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The Wardens of House Marelda have uncovered curious Shadow Walker activity and have reached out to the local Houses for help. The guild eagerly awaits their swift response.

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– House Orenia –

Silas leaned on the railing of the balcony attached to his quarters. He closed his eyes as he solemnly basked in the warm rays of the morning sun and contemplated the journey ahead of him. Lady Wyght and Lady Rayne tried to put on a brave front while giving their short brief, but Silas could see through it. They were scared and had every right to be. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that something big and terrible was approaching...that is, if one paid attention to the signs. He had several encounters with the Walkers over the past few months and they seemed to be more driven and purposeful than ever before. Their mixture of anxiety and confidence was palpable and Silas could sense a growing power within them. And now, he was being recruited to help House Marelda, which was further cause for concern. Usually when Paladins from several guilds gathered for a mission, it was serious.

Silas took a final deep breath of air before returning to his room to finish his travel preparations. As he gave his swords a final sharpening and packed his bag, a knock on his door broke his pensive mood. He walked to the door and opened it just enough to see out, knowing well in advance who would be behind it. To no surprise of his, Rae’annah stood just outside with her hands behind her back.

“Are you ready yet? We gotta get a move on,” she said as she cocked her head slightly to the side.

“Really, Rae? You in that big of a hurry?” Silas said as he returned to his bag, leaving the door cracked.

“No….you’re just slow, is all,” Rae replied, forcing the door open the rest of the way and propping herself up in the doorway.

Silas rolled his eyes slightly and continued to pack. “You know we’re taking the short route to Marelda, right? I have to make sure we’re good on supplies. You know it’s not the safest of journeys.”

Rae contoured her face into pseudo-seriousness. “First of all, don’t roll your beady little eyes at me, mister. And just because it’s a shorter route doesn’t mean we can take our sweet time.”

“Well, for your information, I was almost done anyway…so you really accomplished nothing by barging in here like a madwoman,” Silas said with a smirk.

“Oh, please, I did not ‘barge in here’...” Rae’annah righted herself and revealed the two large pieces of fruit she had been holding behind her back. She tossed one to Silas just as he closed his pack. “Think fast, slow poke!”

Silas reacted in just enough time to catch the fruit. “Thanks.”

“What would you do without me?”

“I’d survive.”

“Hmph...I don’t think so.” Rae gave Silas a light shove and sat on the bed next to his pack. Her mood turned slightly more serious. “Things are getting worse. I can feel it and I know you can, too. Are we sure we’re ready for what’s coming?”

“Ready? It can’t be any worse than what we’ve faced before, right? Whatever’s going on here, the Walkers won’t win.” Silas took a big bite of his fruit and wiped away the juice that started to run down his chin with the back of his hand.

“Right.” Rae’annah hopped down from the bed and headed out the door. She scooped up her own bag that had been sitting just outside and slung it over her shoulder. “Well, anyway...c’mon, slow poke...the others are waiting.” She took a bite of her own fruit and headed down the hall.

Silas shook his head as he placed his fruit on the bed and sheathed his swords. Once he donned his pack, he grabbed the fruit and took another bite. It was rather tasty this morning and he was inwardly more grateful for the gesture than he showed on the outside. He grabbed the door with his free hand and closed it behind him as he made his way to meet the rest of the group.

Annulus: Darkness Rising

Well, I was waiting to see if any more people were gonna join, but I guess this small group will do for now. I'll have the starter post up tomorrow, so hang tight.

Y'all can check out the second character I made, too!