The Create-A-Hero RPG Season II IC Thread

[Rain Dog]

Some of his followers being to spazz out, guessing its a mix of the LSD and the shock of my sight. Others remain still and silent as they turn to their beloved reverend. The look in Jake's eyes...

My gosh...he really, truly believes everything that Madlove is saying right now. That's when I almost lose complete control of myself, summoning the very fire from the candles that light up this crooked celebration and encircling them around me. The fire spinning around me, I shape it into a large warrior angel, and aim all my might at Madlove.

Harnessing those violet orbs that float around him, they come together, and he shoots out a beam of energy which blasts clean through my firey warrior. I luckily dodge in time, astonished by the damage his blast did to the back wall of the recreational facility.

What am I up against?

I fly straight at Madlove, and...well, I don't know what happens. It's like as I try to collide into him with a tackle, some sort of unseeable force from those orbs propel me back like a shield. Next thing I know I'm skyrocketing to the roof, like a ricochet from his apparent forcefield, the windows breaking slowing me down enough so that I can cling onto the edge of the roof so that I don't keep flying through the air. I rise to my feet on the rooftop, levitating just above the hole I made.

"This...isn't good."

A quick prayer allows the cut on my ribside to heal, but doesn't heal nearly as fast as I want it to. Meanwhile, Madlove seems to float atop a piece of debris heading upwards towards me. It's like he's freakin' making that debris levitate with his mind!

MADLOVE​

I grin at the creature as I slowly drift towards it. On the ground beneath me, rubble and shards of glass begin to tremble and then slowly float up into the air with me. To my surprise, many of the churchgoers have yet to flee. They stare up in amazement as their precious leader seemingly ascends into the heavens. The debris begins to drift around me, “orbiting” me.

“You still have the option of leaving, Negative,” I tauntingly remind it.

It glares back with a look of both surprise and anger.

“Nooooooo? Okay.”

I thrust my right hand forward, sending the hundreds of chunks of broken concrete and glass at the “angel” all the while gathering energy with the my left. Just before the stream of debris makes contact with it, let loose a blast of electrical energy from my left hand. I'm curious as to just how much abuse this creature can take.

 

[Johnny Drama]

Previously on...

[blackout]-ULTIMA-[/blackout]

"Enough Ultima, give it up." Icon says.
"I...*cough, cough*...I haven't even begun to...fight..." Ultima says before he falls to the ground, now unconscious.
Icon stands over Ultima.
"I'm going to make damn sure you never hurt anyone again..."

"Omega X.1, it's a chemical that the government has been developing to combat the metahuman explosion we have encountered in the last few years. If injected into a metahumans bloodstream, it will do one of two things: Either it will 'erase' ones powers...or it will kill them" Said Agent Sutherland.
"I like the 2nd option" Ari proclaims.
"It hasn't been tested yet, we want you to use it on Ultima" Sutherland said.
"I'd love to. Gotta find the bastard first." Ari said.
"Once we bring him in, I want you to be the one to inject this into his aorta. You get to kill Ultima, Ari..."
Ari smiles.
"Goddamn Sutherland, It must be my birthday..."

I wake up in large white room. I have no idea where I am. Goddman it's bright in here. I look across the room to see a window to a laboratory. I see a man standing on the other side of the window, watching me. My vision is still blurry and I can't make out who it is, that is, until he says my name.
"Hello Ultima. It's been a while..."
I recognize the voice. Ari Lorne. LHPD. I killed his son years ago, he's had it out for me ever since.
"Ari! Long time no see! Why don't you come on in here and keep me company..."
"I would love to..."

As the airlock door opens, Ari casually walks into the room holding a shotgun. Ultima is inches away from his death and doesn't have the energy to attack, he just continues to lay on the hard cot in the center of the room.

"And to what I owe the pleasure, Ari baby?"

"I just wanted to share the good news, Chris. By the time you get your strength back, you will be able to teleport outta here. So, I am here to make sure you don't get that far. I am here today because I am going to ****ing kill you" Ari says with a smile as he pulls out the syringe filled with Omega X.1.

"It's cute that you still call me Chris. Really. But you of all people should know that Chris Kennedy is dead" Ultima says before Ari sticks the needle into his jugular vein.

AAAAAAGH!!!

"And now so is Ultima..." Ari replies
"Y'see, Ultima/Chris/Ultimate-Man, whatever you are going by these days, this is called Omega X.1. It's going to erase your powers from your system, and once that invisible force-feild of yours wears off, I am going to put this shotgun to your heart and I am going to END this once and for all"

"And then?"

"I am going to eat your brain. Consider it poetic justice, or maybe even karma. Either way I am going to eat your brain, Ultima, just like you did to my boy"
"Well, I guess now that you have S.T.R.I.K.E on your side, you start to think you are Icon or something..."
"What are you talking about, Ultima?"
"The Omega X.1 formula. Only S.T.R.I.K.E has access to that. It's super top secret, the only way you could have gotten it is if you were working with S.T.R.I.K.E"
"You don't know what you are talking about, Ultima. I am working with the F.B.I. You remember Agent Sterling? You killed his son too. And his wife. He has been helping me a great deal, and HE was the one who gave me the Omega X.1..."
"Hahahahahaha..."
"What!?! What's so goddamn funny!?!" Ari says before putting his shotgun to Ultima's head.
"And here I thought you were a detective. Ari, you are being played. 'Agent Sterling' isn't real. S.T.R.I.K.E, They are using you because you are the only one stupid enough to get close to me..."
"None of that matters. I'm still going to to...' Ari says before he is interrupted, as just then, Ultima musters enough energy to pull one final trick out of his sleeve. He shape shifts into Alex, Ari's late son.
"Please don't kill me again daddy..." Alex (Ultima) says
Ari is startled by the image and steps back before he falls to the floor.
"No, no, no...Alex...I, I didn't kill you, it was him, it was Ultima!"
"I was lost, all alone in that big toy store, and when you found me I was happy. But then...then you took me into that bathroom and you hurt me..."
Ari begins crying.
"You hurt me so much. I cried, and I cried, and I cried..."
"No, buddy. It...It wasn't me, it was a very, very bad man pretending to be me"
"You cut my little head open and you started eating my brain, but I didn't die right away day, I could still feel you eating at my brain. Why, daddy? You always said you loved me, you said I was your little champ..."
At that moment, the last of Ultima's powers faded away as he reverted back to his true form.
"HahahahahaHAHAHAHAHAhA"
"Enough of this ****..." Ari says as he stands up and puts his shotgun to Ulitimas chest.
"Before you pull the trigger, Ari. I just want to ask you this. Do you blame me for killing your son? Or do you blame yourself for leaving him alone in that toy store?"
"Goodbye, Ultima..."
BOOM!!!
Ari Lorne pulls the trigger and Ulima's chest explodes. Ari's face is now covered in blood, as are the walls.
"Rest in pieces"

[BLACKOUT]
TO BE CONTINUED
[/BLACKOUT]

 

[Spike_x1]

As the Blue Blur ran off to help more people, the Survivor had to stop. Not because he needed to rest. He never needed rest. No, he had to stop to think.

"These monsters ripped the moon apart and kicked our asses with it. Was that just a warning shot, or is it their idea of a first assault? They've got to have more firepower where that came from. But how will the future attacks change, now that we know they're here and what they can do?"

With those thoughts always in the back of his mind, the Survivor had to force himself to go off and resume helping those in need.

 

[trustyside-kick]

“You still have the option of leaving, Negative,” I tauntingly remind it.

It glares back with a look of both surprise and anger.

“Nooooooo? Okay.”

I thrust my right hand forward, sending the hundreds of chunks of broken concrete and glass at the “angel” all the while gathering energy with the my left. Just before the stream of debris makes contact with it, let loose a blast of electrical energy from my left hand. I'm curious as to just how much abuse this creature can take.

I'm bruised, cut, and a little ticked off. I gesture a the bricks from the recreational center's wall, and use them to block the electric blasts from this nutjob. Maybe it's the fact that I'm used to this being more of a walk in the park; this hero stuff. Could also be the fact that my girlfriend's little brother is brainwashed and following this Madlove character.

Frankly, I'm just getting a little too annoyed with getting my butt kicked. I pull more and more bricks from the wall of the building, making one huge wall arc between Madlove and myself as he presses on with his energy. I keep adding more and more bricks to shield myself, but he keeps pumping out more juice which eventually breaks apart the brick.

In a lash of stress and anger, I shoot out the bricks completely his way.

"Aaarggh!"

Finally! Did something to that wacko. This time I don't hesitate, directly the very water from the pipes that run throughout the abandoned building. Water sprays everywhere, and I mean everywhere on the rooftop. With his electricity still shooting from his hands, he gets fried like a fish.

I levitate over to him, pulling him up from his colorful collar.

"You're going to let these kids leave free lives. Lives away from you and your perverse teach--AAARRGGGH!!"

I get shot! One of the mindless kids hyped on drugs shoots me through the huge hole of the rooftop. I fall on my back in pain. I paid so much attention to the cult leader that I forgot he had minions. Guess I underestimated just how much of an influence he has over these kids. They actually whole-heartedly believe what comes out of his mouth.

I am...whatever a Negative is supposed to be, and must be vanquised.

Greeeeeeaaat.

"You misunderstand me, Negative. It is not I who cling to the children, but the children who cling to me. Me and my teachings. It is the only true way to Enlightenment."

"You're just never going to give up feeding that sort of crap, are you? Well then..."

I get up. Not enough time, nor privacy to start up a healing prayer. As soon as I start to move my mouths Madlove could easily strike me with my guard down. It stings so much. I take my sword holster out, praying to God that it will finally light up. It will only work if I'm defending the innocent, right?

"Guess I'm just going to have to keep on fighting. Your teachings, or whatever you wish to call them, do nothing but put those kids in harms way. I'm not going to have that."

I'm not just fighting for my life, but for the lives of those lost and confused kids down there. Suddenly, the blade lights up. It's firey white flame burns with such sensation and power. I look at Madlove, who also shared my astonishment.

Round 2, baby.

 

[Rain Dog]

"Guess I'm just going to have to keep on fighting. Your teachings, or whatever you wish to call them, do nothing but put those kids in harms way. I'm not going to have that."

I'm not just fighting for my life, but for the lives of those lost and confused kids down there. Suddenly, the blade lights up. It's firey white flame burns with such sensation and power. I look at Madlove, who also shared my astonishment.

Round 2, baby.

MADLOVE​

Fascinating. The creature has seemingly forged some sort of plasma weapon from nowhere. I’d rather not let it live long enough to find out what it can do. I can see that one of my faithful little lads has wounded it. This should be no trouble at all.

“Your tricks do not scare me, Negative,” I say, taking a defensive stance. More loose debris and a few churchgoers are lifted into the air and sent swirling around the church as if caught in a whilrwind. I begin to hurl them around the creature--around, not at. Merely distractions. I send forth a wave of telekinetic energy, in an attempt to knock the creature off balance. Wrapping myself in a shield of energy, I lunge at the winged demon. My plan? Grab a hold of him and see how many direct volts it takes to make him explode.

 

[Watchman]

Hold on, I'll be right over after I destroy the world: Part !

Well outside doesn't look like outside anymore. Good the drugs must be kicking in....bad whats happening. The buidling swirl in and out of existence. The landscapre streches and pulls apart. Soon Jack is falling into a void trying to hold onto the edges of sanity. He knows what happening. Colors fade in and out. The place looks more and more like a cartoon, figures fly through the air, he falls through the void.

He's travelling through time.

When he comes too he is laying on the ground. His eyes are staring up to the starry night sky. He looks around there is nothing well except that he can see the Earth and the Apollo 11. Behind him a pale man in a grey suit and hat nods his end and blinks out of existence...Hollow Man? Jack runs, he is scared. He runs. He goes into the Apollo 11 and falls down the rabbit hole.

He now finds himself in the desert. A lone figure makes his way toward him. He is about seven feet tall, long black hair, and a white goatee. Jack tries to run but can not move. The man gets closer and closer.

"You're gonna have to serve somebody, yes indeed. You're gonna have to serve somebody. Well, it may be the devil or it may be the Lord but you're gonna have to serve somebody." The man grabs him by the throat. It's Sam, Lucifer Sam.

" 'ello, Jack. You shouldn't have peeked. You shouldn't have looked in his briefcase." He throws him and he lands him on the floor of the helicopter. They were leaving Madrid yes Madrid. That's were the COS got one of his drugs. The were heading back into the states. Sam and the Chief of Staff were talking about something. He looked in the briefcase for a second nothing more. What he saw written down sent a chill down his spine and he though he saw almost everything.

"Rrrrrrrah!" The COS snaps his head back, a skeleton in his vision. He is wearing a suit that is just dangling off his bones.

"Jack...jack...JACK. You sure know how to be a buzzkillll." Something steel slides from his sleeve. It slithers from his hand like a snake and forms a gun in his hand. "Bang, bang." He feels the bullets tear through him again. He falls into the arms of Sam.

"What should we do with him? You think he saw the plans?"

"Who cares! Throw him overboard! We already have our new Jack anyway." Sam picks him over his head.

"Adios, Jack."

"You are dismissed agent." He salutes him and Sam tosses him into the water below. There was a splashed and he was back on the moon. He heard whispers all around him. The surface was flat and all around him was nothing but static. He begun to walk and stop he he saw an image in front of him.

"no! No! New Haven! No Man in the mooon! Kzzzzttt....." A door opened. It was his house. His actual house not some drug trip.

"Oh no not again."

 

[Johnny Drama]

Previously on...

[blackout]-ULTIMA-[/blackout]

this is called Omega X.1. It's going to erase your powers from your system, and once that invisible force-field of yours wears off, I am going to put this shotgun to your heart and I am going to END this once and for all"

"Well, I guess now that you have S.T.R.I.K.E on your side, you start to think you are Icon or something..."
"What are you talking about, Ultima?"
"The Omega X.1 formula. Only S.T.R.I.K.E has access to that. It's super top secret, the only way you could have gotten it is if you were working with S.T.R.I.K.E"
"You don't know what you are talking about, Ultima. I am working with the F.B.I. You remember Agent Sterling? You killed his son too. And his wife. He has been helping me a great deal, and HE was the one who gave me the Omega X.1..."
"Hahahahahaha..."
"What!?! What's so goddamn funny!?!" Ari says before putting his shotgun to Ultima's head.
"And here I thought you were a detective. Ari, you are being played. 'Agent Sterling' isn't real. S.T.R.I.K.E, They are using you because you are the only one stupid enough to get close to me..."

"Before you pull the trigger, Ari. I just want to ask you this. Do you blame me for killing your son? Or do you blame yourself for leaving him alone in that toy store?"
"Goodbye, Ultima..."
BOOM!!!
Ari Lorne pulls the trigger and Ulima's chest explodes. Ari's face is now covered in blood, as are the walls.
"Rest in pieces"

3 hours ago

Sitting behind his desk, Agent Sterling Sutherland watches the battle on the channel 8 news as it transpires. Icon and Ultima, both engaged in a heated war in the midtown district. His eyes glued to the screen and his cordless phone in his hand, he watches Icon delivers a flurry of punches to Ultima and then an uppercut so powerful that it puts Ultima through a wall.
Sutherland tries for the 5th time to call Detective Ari Lorne, who isn't answering the phone for some reason. Again, Sutherland gets the answering machine.

"Hey this is Ari Lorne. Sorry you missed me, I'm out doing important things and such. Leave me a message and maybe I will get back at you if time permits. Ciao."

"Ari, it's Sutherland again. Where the hell are you? Icon and Ultima are bringing down the whole goddamn city but it looks like Icon is finally going to bring this son of a b***h down. Where in gods name are you, I need you. Call me back, NOW." Sutherland says as he slams the phone down.

"Damn it..." he says to himself.
Just then, Sutherland gets a call and quickly picks it up.

"This is Sutherland" he answers.

"Agent Sutherland. It's Johnson. You are never going to believe this but the officials have dragged Detective Ari Lorne's body of the Lost Haven reservoir. Here is the kicker, he has been dead at least 7 days..." Said the agent on the other line.

"No no no, I just saw him a few hours ago, Ari Lorne is alive" replied Sutherland.

"And I am telling you we are looking at him right now, in the morgue. He is swollen up nearly twice his size and full of water. Ari Lorne has been dead at least a week."
Sutherland gives himself a facepalm and sighs, as he had only been working with Ari for the past 4 days.

NOW

Sutherland stands behind the glass window overlooking Ultima's holding cell, watching Ultima talk to himself. He keeps shapeshifting between Ultima and Ari Lorne. By now Sutherland has put the pieces of the puzzle together. Ari Lorne is dead. The man he thought was Ari Lorne was Ultima, and everything going on in that cell between Ari and Ultima is in Ultimas head. Sutherland looks down at the ground to see the syringe full of Omega X.1, unused.

"Before you pull the trigger, Ari. I just want to ask you this. Do you blame me for killing your son? Or do you blame yourself for leaving him alone in that toy store?"

"Goodbye, Ultima..."
As Ari, Ultima holds a shotgun (that isn't really there) and shoots it at the empty cot in the center of the room.

"Rest in pieces"[/COLOR]

The air lock door opens and Sutherland enters the room.

"Ari..."

"Bout time you join us, Sutherland. Do you see what I did? Do you see what I did to the bastard??" he says as he points the the empty cot. Ari sees Ultima, dead and dismembered, while in reality there is nothing there.
Sutherland doesn't want Ultima to know that he is aware of the situation, nor does he want the Ultima personalty to kick in while Sutherland is in the room. He has to play along and keep everything he knows close to his chest.

"Great job, Ari. You made good on your promise. We are going to have to keep you in here for a couple of hours, run some tests to make sure Ultimas blood doesn't have any radioactive effects on you."

"Why did you lie to me Sutherland?" Ari/Ultima asks.

''Excuse me?" asks Sutherland.

"Ultima figured it out before I did him in. You don't work for the FBI. You are with S.T.R.I.K.E. That's how you gained access to the Omega X.1 formula and that's how you knew so much about Ultima." Ari/Ultima responds.
"You said Ultima killed your family too. He didn't remember you. He said you were using me. Tell me, did you even have a family? Is your name even Sutherland?" asks Ari/Ultima as Sutherland walks away.

"Haha. I guess neither of us were who we thought we were, Ari" Sutherland says as he walks out the air lock door.

Agent Sutherland pulls his cellphone out and makes a call.

"This is S.T.R.I.K.E agent Frank West. We need increased security in the holding cells on level B5. Preferably a handful of Metas. High level metahuman with a bit of a Tyler Durden complex. We have the big fish. Let's not let him get away..." he says.

TO BE CONTINUED

 

[SuperBoy-CK]

​

Spartan, agent Smith and Thomason along with a handle full of other agents all sat in an office back at the headquarters just outside of Lost Haven. With the disaster that took place in California they are lucky they made it with there lives. If it wasn’t for Spartan making it back to the base and getting who he could to the underground tunnels, none of the agents would be here. It was truly a shame that he couldn’t save the lives of the citizens of California, that was how a few of the agents felt that were in the room.

Agent Thomason felt sick to his stomach about what transpired between Spartan and the deaths of so many innocent people.

“How could you let them die?’ Thomason ask while trying to hold himself from breaking down and crying.

The rest of the agent knew of what he was speaking of but none were man enough to bring it up in front of the man who saved there lives, that same man who has taken down so many Metahumans that the count is endless.

“Drop it Agent Thomason. It’s not worth losing you job over.”

Thomason quickly turns to his right with an astonish look on his face after agent Smith made that comment.

“Drop it? You were there as well. You witness what happen.”

“I did, and I also heard his orders to bring us back to the base and save what agents he could. That was what he was ordered to do and he did it.”

“His orders were not to let those people die!” Thomason shouted.

Smith couldn’t say to much after that. That statement left him speechless.

Spartan tried not to pay attention to what Thomason was saying but it was beginning to get to the point to where something has to be said.

“Do you have something to want to get off your chest?” Spartan asked Thomason.

“Yeah I do, why did you do it? I thought you were a hero. I looked up to you. But when that tsunami hit you did nothing. You stood there and just watched as Thundara did what she could to help those people. You watched as a mother and daughter was trap in their car and you watched them die. Why?”

Thundara was supposedly a Metahuman with great power that Spartan was post to bring back to S.T.R.I.K.E but the task was easier said than done. Because that woman he was assigned to capture was not a Metahuman but clam to be the daughter of the Thunder god, Thor who he was told at first he had to capture. The fight with Spartan that lead up to the tsunami prove that she wasn’t a Metahuman but was something more powerful.

The fight came to an end as they saw the tsunami coming there way. Thundara went to help what people she could Spartan on the other hand did nothing till he got a message in his two way radio ear piece telling him to get agent Smith and Thomason out of the area and save what agents at the base he could. While grabbing Smith and Thomason all three of them had saw a lady trap in her car with her baby girl about to get hit by the terrifying tsunami in a matter of seconds. Thomason had yelled to Spartan to save them but soon as the body of water had crash into the car they had teleported out of the area.

“My orders were to get you and the others to safety.” Spartan relied.

After hearing Spartan’s answer Thomason got outraged. “ORDERS? YOU LET THAT WOMAN AND HER DAUGHTER DIE OVER ORDERS?” Thomason yelled at Spartan standing in front of him across from a table.

“You could of help them I know it you know it hell we all know it. You have the power and ability to do anything. It wasn’t orders that stop you. I understand now what it is. You’re no hero you are only a tool, better yet a dog that jumps only when his master tells him to. I was a fool to believe in someone like you, we all were.”

The room had got to quite that you could most likely hear the sound of a heart beat. Everyone in the room was shock and surprise and had every reason to be. To hear a agent and a rookie agent for that matter speak to a agent with a higher rank and let alone a agent who probably can be consider the best, speak to Spartan in that manner was nothing short of mind-blowing.

At a glimpse it seem like Spartan wasn’t going to retaliate but before anyone could blink Spartan jump over the table and in no time and grab Thomason with one hand and lifted him off his feet and press him against the wall.

“You listen and listen well because I’m only going to say this once. People die all the time from car crashes to heart attacks to being shot down on the street. They were dieing like that before me and they will continue to die like that after me. Those people I don’t care for. Now some where down the line people got abilities and then people started dieing by other means. Now those people I will protect I will save because that is what I’m suppose to do being that I’m a member of S.T.R.I.K.E. Everything else is futile to me and should be to everyone that joins S.T.R.I.K.E we are to catch or kill Metahumans or do whatever they ask for us, that is what it means to be a S.T.R.I.K.E agent and if you don’t like it…”

Spartan then throws Thomason to the floor the force of the throw slid Thomason toward the exit.

“there’s the door.”

This action left everyone once again flabbergasted. To see Thomason or even Spartan act in this matter was just to much for people to take in.

Thomason slowly got up back to his feet and looked at everyone in the room.

“I hope all of you heard what he said because if you don’t leave this organization you will all be like him. A man who believes fallowing orders is more important than human life.”

After that being said Thomason turn around and walk out of the door.

 

[Johnny Drama]

Previously on...

[blackout]-ULTIMA-[/blackout]

Sutherland gets a phone call and quickly picks it up.

"This is Sutherland" he answers.

"Agent Sutherland. It's Johnson. You are never going to believe this but the officials have dragged Detective Ari Lorne's body of the Lost Haven reservoir. Here is the kicker, he has been dead at least 7 days..." Said the agent on the other line.

"No no no, I just saw him a few hours ago, Ari Lorne is alive" replied Sutherland.

"And I am telling you we are looking at him right now, in the morgue. He is swollen up nearly twice his size and full of water. Ari Lorne has been dead at least a week.

"Ari..."

"Bout time you join us, Sutherland. Do you see what I did? Do you see what I did to the bastard??" he says as he points the the empty cot. Ari sees Ultima, dead and dismembered, while in reality there is nothing there.
Sutherland doesn't want Ultima to know that he is aware of the situation, nor does he want the Ultima personalty to kick in while Sutherland is in the room. He has to play along and keep everything he knows close to his chest.

"Great job, Ari. You made good on your promise. We are going to have to keep you in here for a couple of hours, run some tests to make sure Ultimas blood doesn't have any radioactive effects on you."

"Why did you lie to me Sutherland?" Ari/Ultima asks.

''Excuse me?" asks Sutherland.

"Ultima figured it out before I did him in. You don't work for the FBI. You are with S.T.R.I.K.E. That's how you gained access to the Omega X.1 formula and that's how you knew so much about Ultima." Ari/Ultima responds.
"You said Ultima killed your family too. He didn't remember you. He said you were using me. Tell me, did you even have a family? Is your name even Sutherland?" asks Ari/Ultima as Sutherland walks away.

"Haha. I guess neither of us were who we thought we were, Ari" Sutherland says as he walks out the air lock door.

Agent Sutherland pulls his cellphone out and makes a call.

"This is S.T.R.I.K.E agent Frank West. We need increased security in the holding cells on level B5. Preferably a handful of Metas. High level metahuman with a bit of a Tyler Durden complex. We have the big fish. Let's not let him get away..." he says.

Jack Bane (the superhero turned S.T.R.I.K.E agent formerly known as Powerhouse) and his partner, Jessica Lane (the superhero turned S.T.R.I.K.E agent formerly known as Blast) walk down the hallways of S.T.R.I.K.E headquarters level B5, AKA the prison area.
Jessica is holding the Omega X.1 and they have an objective. Inject the Ox1 into Ultima's vein. Easier said than done.
"This guy just gave Icon the fight of his life, I heard" Jack says.
"The guy on the news? The one calling himself Ultimo?" Jessica says.
"Ultima, with an A. This guy is bad news. Watch your back, Jess." Jack says.
"Frank West says he has no powers right now because he is having a nervous breakdown and thinks he is someone else. 'Says we gotta get this into him before he remembers who he really is. When that happens, he is gone with the wind. He can teleport, so we have to get this Ox1 in his bloodstream..." Jessica says.
"And then we kill him." Jack replies.
"Just be cool, play along and don't do or say anything to trigger his true form..." Jessica says.
"S***t, ain't gotta tell me twice" Jack responds.


Ari Lorne sits in his holding cell, staring at the wall.
"When the hell are they going to let me out of here. I am so god damned tired of waiting." He says.
The Airlock door opens and Jack & Jessica enter the room.
"Oh hey, you guys! You are Powerhouse and Blast! The forgotten superhero duo, what are you guys doing here? Come to congratulate me on offing Ultima?" Ari asks with a smile on his face.
"Haha, No Detective Lorne. Our superhero days are over. We are working with S.T.R.I.K.E now." Jack says.
"We are here to administer a vaccine to protect you from Ultima's radiation you may have encountered" Jessica says.
"Say, Powerhouse. I'd kill to know what you can do with those powers of yours. I always wondered." Ari says.
Jack and Jessica look at each other for a moment. Not wanting to alarm Ari/Ultima, Jack answers his question.
"I am strong, one of the strongest in the game, Detective Lorne. Some say just as strong as Icon." Jack says.
Icon. Enemy.
"Uh, yeah. That...That is cool, real cool..." Ari says as he breaks out into a sweat.
"Mr. Lorne, Are you okay?" Jessica asks.
"And Blast, You used to fly! and project concussive blasts from your hands, right?" Ari/Ultima asks.
"Uh, I still do. you don't look so good, Mr. Lorne. Let me get this vaccine in you and we can have you on your way" Jessica says.
Just then, Ari's eyes begin to glow and he forms a sinister smile on his face.
"Oh, No...We won't be doing that today..." Ultima says.

S.T.R.I.K.E agent Frank West has his phone to his ear and his eyes on a clipboard as he paces the hallways of Level B5.
Frank nervously paces as he speaks to his unnamed superior.

"Yes sir. Yes, the plan is to get Ultima on Omega X.1 and de-power him, then we can interrogate him, find out what his connection is to the planet Arlaaek and our conflict with them. Yes. Yes sir.
Well, if all goes according to plan, 'The Executioner Operation' will be in affect by next week. Yes, sir. Well, we have several members in mind. Spartan, that'll be easy, he is 100% loyal to S.T.R.I.K.E. I also want Powerhouse and Blast on the team, maybe Ripclaw. We need a human agent on the team, help keep things in our pocket. I have me eye on the one they call 'Wonderboy'... Yes, sir. Yes. I understand. Goodbye."

Frank closes his phone and puts it in his pocket. It's then that he hears the terrifying screams coming from the holding cell down the hall.

"AAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!"
"AAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!"

Agent West enter Ultimas room, his 9mm drawn and despair on his face. But he is too late. On the ground lay agents Jack Bane and Jessica Lane's dead bodies, the top of their heads removed and their brains missing, and Ultima no where to be found.

"no no NO NO NO!!!" Agent West yells. "NO, F**K NO!!!" He screams as he begins knocking everything in the room over and panicing.


ULTIMA flies through the air for the first time of his life, relishing in his new power. Ultima smiles as the wind washes over his face. The air is cold and the sky is dark. Ultima then opens up his palm and giggles like a baby when a pink orb of energy forms around his hand. His aims his hand at the sky an unleashes a huge blast.
BOOM
He stops over his favorite spot, The Fairbanks building in the Midtown district. He hovers over the building, watching the city. Ultima sees many, many people roaming the streets, the poor suckers who didn't evacuate the city when they had a chance, The clean-up crews clearing the wreckage that litters the streets after the attack from Arlaaek, and the sees the police, doing their job and trying to rebuild Lost Haven. All these people, but none of them interest Ultima. He feels like a Tiger, after a kill. Calm, content, and full.
"Okay Lost Haven. You haven't seen anything yet." Ultima says before he flies away faster than what seems like the speed of light.


The Next Day, S.T.R.I.K.E headquaters.

Frank West sits in his office. He looks at the folder reading "FBI Sterling Sutherland". He begins to think about how he earned Ari Lorne's trust pretending to be someone else. The revelation that Ari was Ultima makes him feel more at ease about creating the Sterling Sutherland persona, less guilty.
Beep Beep
Frank hits the speakerphone button on his phone.
"Agent West..." he answers
"Sir, Spartan is here as you requested." Says his secretary, Penny.
"Okay, send him in" Agent West says.

Spartan enters the room.

"Frank old friend.. . . Long time no see. . ." Spartan says

"Not long enough, Spartan you old bastard, you. Good to see you." West says.

"I assume this is a business call? " Spartan asks

"I'm all about business, Spartan. You know that. I want to talk to you about The Executioner Operation. I've got orders to commission a special ops team of metahumans to 'handle' certain targets that are a little too much for one man. I need the best of the best, Spartan and I want you to lead my Executioners. What do you say?" Agent West asks.

"It would be my honor. Please tell me our first target is . . ." Spartan says


"Ultima. Yes. He killed Powerhouse and Blast and now he is much stronger, and can fly, and.." West responds before Spartan interrupts him.


"And he is practically a one man arsenal . . ." Spartan says


"Bingo! That's why we need some top recruits. Tomorrow I am going to talk to Wonder Boy and see if he we can get him on board. I want you to talk to Ripclaw. We need to get this in motion, and eliminate the target..."

"Don't worry Frank. Please believe that I will KILL Ultima." Spartan says with a smile.



[blackout]TO BE CONTINUED[/blackout]

 

[Spike_x1]

MADLOVE​

Fascinating. The creature has seemingly forged some sort of plasma weapon from nowhere. I’d rather not let it live long enough to find out what it can do. I can see that one of my faithful little lads has wounded it. This should be no trouble at all.

“Your tricks do not scare me, Negative,” I say, taking a defensive stance. More loose debris and a few churchgoers are lifted into the air and sent swirling around the church as if caught in a whilrwind. I begin to hurl them around the creature--around, not at. Merely distractions. I send forth a wave of telekinetic energy, in an attempt to knock the creature off balance. Wrapping myself in a shield of energy, I lunge at the winged demon. My plan? Grab a hold of him and see how many direct volts it takes to make him explode.

As the colorful preacher lunges through the air towards the...angel... a dark shadow suddenly overtakes the attacker, kicking Madlove back to the ground. When the villain angrily looks up at the newcomer, he just sees a pair of glowing eyes framed within a silhouette in front of the mock church's scattered lights.

"Here we are with the whole world going to hell, and what do I find?" Honestly, Adam didn't know for certain which of these two schmucks was the badguy, but the insane look in Madlove's eyes sure wasn't winning over the Survivor. Neither was Madlove's outfit. "I assume that the angel guy over there is the fashion police?" he asked, jerking his thumb at the Archangel.

 

[trustyside-kick]

"Here we are with the whole world going to hell, and what do I find?" Honestly, Adam didn't know for certain which of these two schmucks was the badguy, but the insane look in Madlove's eyes sure wasn't winning over the Survivor. Neither was Madlove's outfit. "I assume that the angel guy over there is the fashion police?" he asked, jerking his thumb at the Archangel.

Ok. I think I've just about had it. First I get involved in some cosmic, freakshow of a cult and things only get sooo much worse when I meet their kooky leader. Next thing I'm know, I'm fighting my first full-blown supervillain and for the very first time, actually getting my hiney handed to me.

To top off this grand and wonderful superhero tale? Now, some dark and mysterious figure drops in and frankly I cannot tell if I show wave my firey sword at him or keep fighting Madlove. Honestly, how can things get worse? And fashion police? Pleeeaase. This guy's gotta work on his banter.

"Actually we were discussing theologies. As you can see, I'm kinda biased. He didn't like that too much."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

​

Several hours after talking Jenny and Lisa into leaving the city, I find myself out assisting the rescue teams as they search for survivors. The crews have pulled out over half a dozen people who were trapped in their vehicles, or in rubble from the buildings that have been damaged by the smaller fragments of the moon.

While using my super hearing I hear muffled cries coming from one of the piles of rubble. I'm not able pin down exactly where the cries are coming from. So I concentrate, focusing in with my "radar sense" I locate the trapped victim, and I make my way to dig them out.

After digging for several seconds I find the victim, a young girl around 19 or 20, no older than Jenny.

"It's okay, I've got you. You're going to be fine."

However, after taking one look at her, I know that was a lie. She has a steel rebar protruding from her chest. She has lost alot of blood since the foundation collapsed around her, and there is nothing that I can do. She doesn't have much time left.

"What's your name sweetheart, where are you from?" I say, trying to keep her talking so that maybe the paramedics can work some sort of miracle and give her some sort of chance.

"Amy...wha...what happened?"

"The building that you were in collapsed, you're hurt but we're going to get you help. Everything is going to be okay." I lie to the girl.

"I want my...my mother. Can you get her for me?"

"We'll make sure that she meets you at the hospital. Now just relax, the paramedics are on their way."

But they are too late. I can see that we're losing her. Her breathing comes harder, and her breaths are shallower.

"I'm so cold. Can you..." And she falls silent, her chest stops rising and falling as her breathing stops.

We were too late.

I was too late.

I'm going to do my damnedest to be sure that I'm not too late again.

 

[SuperBoy-CK]

Spartan stands outside of Frank’s office door thinking about the situation that he was put in. ‘Out of all people I would have never thought that Ripclaw would be someone I would have to work with.’ Spartan thought.


It was only 5 years ago that Spartan had brought Ripclaw to S.T.RI.K.E. Spartan was only 15 years old still making a name for himself and Dr. Dean Summers at the time was a very intelligent scientist that works with ninobite technology for the company. His job was to come up with a new method for people to attain abilities. This way would be different from injecting people with the alien DNA and see what powers they would achieve but instead you would be able to choose them. All of this became possible with his ninobite technology. He had made his first batch of successful nino’s and tested them on himself. The process drove him mad like a crazed animal causing him to go in a berserk rage destroying the lab and all the information on the technology. Seeing that Dr Summers was no longer sane they sent Spartan in to stop him and that’s what he did. He stopped Dr. Summers and brought him back to S.T.R.I.K.E single handedly. Now that same man who now goes by Ripclaw, he has to recruit him to join his team. Spartans life couldn’t be more interesting.

While heading to the location to find Ripclaw as he was leaving he saw his father. Last time they seen each other was when he left for California. The look on Spartan dad face told the story he was very pleased to see his son alive especially after hearing about that happened on the west coast.

“Mark I’m glad you made it back in one piece.” His father said as he gives Spartan a hug.

This kind of emotion or any kind emotion for that matter is not like Spartan. He’s not really one who shows affection. His dad believes that his lack of compassion is one of his weakness.

“Agent Moore I’m fine as you can see. There is no situation I can’t get out of.”

“Agent Moore? Mark I’m your dad you don’t have to call me agent Moore, just dad okay?”

“Sorry.”

“I swear Mark sometimes I feel that you are two different people.”

And Roger had every reason to feel like that. At times when Spartan is not working for S.T.R.I.K.E when he is his alter ego Mark Moore collage student and loving son. Calling Roger dad is no problem. Seeing Spartan as Mark you would never believe they are the same people in a million years. One is powerful by far and by the book and will do anything and everything to get the job done while the other is nice, kind, sweet to other and has friends who he care about deeply. Guess when S.T.R.I.K.E told Spartan that he would have to live a life like a normal teenage boy he must adapted to the situation more ways in one. By his mind making another ego that lives the life of a normal boy while the other is a fighting machine. This could be his strength or his [FONT=&quot]Achilles heel.[/FONT]

Reason why his father had came looking for Spartan was to tell him about his friend Janet. She was the first person that Spartan met when he was first assigned as his alter ego Mark Moore. From the start there was something that caught Spartans eye about her.

“Son, after the events that took place your friend Janet had got hurt and ended up in the hospital. She’s in a bad condition. I thought you would want to know right away to go see her.”

For a second Spartan did feel something but he couldn’t, no he wouldn’t let himself feel anyway. He had a mission to do and he couldn’t let anything get in the way.

"That is no concern of mine. Now if you excuse me I have something to do.”

Spartan walked pass his father brushing him with his shoulder.

“This company has really done a number on you.” His father say under his breath as he watches Spartan’s back go further and further away.

Spartan had made it to the address he had received about Ripclaw’s where about. He stood in front of steel door thinking about what may take place once he opens the door. But thinking would have to come to an end, only way he would find out is to walk in and get the answers.

The room was completely dark and a big area that look a lot like a training area. A couple seconds after being in the room his eye’s had adapted to the darkness and he had attain night vision. He looked up and saw a man standing on a stairwell above looking down on him.

“Not only did I hear you coming but I could smell you."

“Let me guess you must have smelt excellence?” Spartan said with a smirk to fallow. Spartan knew that the best way to get to Ripclaw is by bragging about how much better he is than him. It’s a way to through him off his game.

“Still cocky as ever you young punk, how bout I jump down there is claw that smile off you face?”

“Let’s see what you got old man.”

Wasting no time Ripclaw lunge into the air with his claws coming out from his hands. Spartan just stood in the same spot looking at Ripclaw coming towards him. While coming down Ripclaw had planted his claws into Spartans chest with his body weight knocking Spartan on the ground.

“Getting slow kid.”

“First one is always free grandpa.”

Spartan then throws Ripclaw off of him and he then did a handspring back to his feet and turns and faced his enemy but soon to be partner as his wounds heal.

“I have been waiting for this for some time now." Ripclaw state as he cleans the blood off his claws.

"Well show me what you got, your not getting any younger.”

Both than ran at each other full steam a head, while running Spartans skin turn into a organic type steel. Once in close range both went on the attack. Spartan throws a right hook in the direction to Ripclaw’s face. At the same time Ripclaw was bring his claws right to Spartans chest with a straight right knowing full well that Spartan didn’t plan on blocking. Both of there attack landed at the same time but Spartan had taken the worst end on of the assault. Spartan jumps back looking down at his chest and is a little shock at the fact that Ripclaw’s was able to penetrate his skin in this form. He looks back at Ripclaw and notice something different about his claws.

“First time we fought Jr I still didn’t understand the full extent of my powers. S.T.R.I.K.E had help me found out some pretty interesting things. Things like my claws vibrate at an extremely high frequency allowing me to cut through almost any material with ease. This time I’m going to win this fight.”

Spartan didn’t need to reply his action will be his words. Ripclaw saw this as his opportunity to take advantage of the situation. He then took off running at Spartan with his claws ready to strike. On the other hand Spartan once again just stood still waiting for his attacker to come. In striking range Ripclaw went for the stomach of Spartan slashing from right to left but this time something was different.

“This can’t be.” Ripclaw said in disbelief.

His claws this time wasn’t working on Spartan. Ripclaw stop his attack and look at the none wounded chest of S.T.R.I.K.E solider. While looking he heard something.

“That sound."

The sound he was hearing was the same exact sound his claws were making but instead of his being his claws it was Spartans skin.

“I know what you are thinking. How can it be that my claws are not working? Let me tell you how. This steel like skin you are looking at is vibrating at the same frequency as your claws, making it so they are useless against me.”

Ripclaw was left speechless, all those years that he has been training for this moment to fight Spartan again ended less than 5 minutes. Since Ripclaw was left motionless Spartan decided to go on the attack.

“It’s my turn now.”

Moments later Ripclaw laid out on the ground covered in his own blood just looking up in the sky as Spartan sat down beside him. While they began to talk Ripclaw wounds were heal instantly.

“So this guy must be something for them to have Spartan himself team up with others.”

“So I heard, I myself haven’t seen him but I’ll carry out what ever orders they ask of me.”

Ripclaw laugh out a little while getting up from off his back.

“Still there pet i see, sooner or later you will see what this so call company is about but till then I’ll join your little team. It’s the only way they are going to let me out of here.”

​

*****
First Member Of The Executioner's
Name: Dr. Dean Summers
Powers:He was injected with high tech ninobites that run all through his body. The ninobites give him some unique abilities such heighten sense and healing. They also form into three sharp blades that come out of his hand. the ninobites vibrate at an extremely high frequency allowing them to cut through almost any material with ease.
Alias: Ripclaw

​

 

[Spike_x1]

"Actually we were discussing theologies. As you can see, I'm kinda biased. He didn't like that too much."

The Survivor grunted in acknowledgment. Honestly, his attention was more focused on the drugs scattered around the room, and the dumbstruck churchgoers who were all swimming up to their eyeballs in chemicals. "Which of you is responsible for this crap?" he growled.

 

[Rain Dog]

MADLOVE​

I look up at the dark figure. Another monster has stumbled into my church. My sermon was interrupted, my followers are terrified. The newcomers have probably fled by now and were well on their way to alert authorities, no doubt. These damned creatures are trying to ruin my new empire.

I slowly rise to my feet.

"Which of you is responsible for this crap?"

Crap? How crass. I have had quite enough. I suppose I could just vaporize the two of them. But that would be too risky. The energy required for such a feat would probably end up killing most, if not all of my followers. At least I think it will. I’m still not entirely sure how stable my powers are in this form. Not to mention that the usage of such power might alert my people of my whereabouts. I can’t risk that now. I need to get away from these creatures. I will deal with them some other time.

“Children! I need your help! Another Negative has been summoned!”

A few followers spring up to their feet and run towards us.

“Tear them apart! Banish them from this realm! I cannot do it alone!”​

More and more church-goers begin to swarm around the two. They throw themselves at the “Negatives”, punching, kicking, clawing, biting, doing everything they can to bring them down.

“Outside, quickly! Get to safety!” I call out the remaining churchgoers. The remaining followers storm out of the church like a stampede. I take one last look at my church and at the loyal followers who continued to swarm and attack the two monsters.

“Your sacrifices shall not be in vain,” I muttered as I step outside and shut the doors behind me. I stand in front of the building and hold my hands up to the heavens. I shut my eyes and concentrate for a moment. The ground rumbles, the walls tremble. I jerk my hands downward and the church roof caves in. Another quick jerk and the walls crumble. Everything and everyone inside was now buried under tons of concrete and steel.

I tell my followers that we should return to our respective homes for now and quickly leave the scene.

The Church of Madlove was done. For now.

 

[Rain Dog]

The entire world is in an uproar. The sky fell. Who’s responsible? Has the Illuminati finally struck? Possibly. Maybe? Possibly—yes…yes, it makes sense. They level cities and take advantage of the subsequent turmoil. They will reveal themselves soon. The time is almost upon us. The world will kneel at the feet of their new overlords, too afraid and confused to question. Poor fools. If only they knew.

[blackout]“Baxter, what do you make of this?”[/blackout]

“The light’s too damn loud!”

[blackout]“Mubbles?”[/blackout]

Meeeow.

[blackout]“No, it’s them…I’m sure of it…who else could it be?”[/blackout]

Prrrrr

[blackout]“Hmmm…something out there? Something out there made the sky fall? What? Who? What?”[/blackout]

I began to think. Out there. What force other than the Illuminati could possibly have the power to make the sky fall? Nature? As far as I know, having chunks of the moon rain down like hellfire is far from natural. Out there. Perhaps this would require more abstract thought—yes…the greatest answers require abstract thought. Extraterrestrials? Could support Icke’s theory on the Babylonian Brotherhood. Reptillian-humanoids from Draco. Perhaps Icke was right. Perhaps they are the Illuminati.

Meow.

[blackout]“You’re right. We shouldn’t jump to conclusions. I’ll suit up. Roam the streets. Get answers,”[/blackout] I say as I grab my gear.

[blackout]“I’ll be sure to head over to that dry cleaner’s. Something tells me they’ll have what we’re looking for.” [/blackout]

3:38 A .M.

Dry cleaner’s is still open. The owner sits at the front counter. Always seems to be on the verge of falling asleep. Even during the day. He’s a small, odd man. I tried to enter once, he shooed me out. It was during the day. Not in my gear then. Wonder how he’ll react to me now.

I draw my guns and kick open the door. The man shrieks and quickly ducks underneath the counter.

“Get out! Get out now!”

I’m not backing down now.

[blackout]“Drop the gun, sir!”[/blackout]

“You drop guns! Get out!”

He cocked his gun.

“NOW!”

I stand my ground. He begins to tremble a bit. That’s a sign. I quickly drop down behind a washing machine as he squeezes the trigger. The blast obliterates his front door and windows. I hear the gun cock again. I gently lay one of my guns down. With a quick tap, it slides out into the open. Startled, the man fires again. Out of shots now. Need to act before he can reload. I quickly roll out from behind the washing machine and charge. I leap up onto the table and kick the gun out of his hands. With a second kick, I have him on the ground.

“Take money! Don’t kill, please! Please!” he sobbed.

I jump off of the counter and point my gun at his face.

[blackout]“What do you know about the Babylonian Brotherhood?”[/blackout]

“W-what?”

[blackout]“Don’t play dumb. The sky fell. Paris was destroyed. Illuminati have anything to do with it?”[/blackout]

“I don’t understand what you say! Please! Just take what you want and leave, please!”

I push my boot down on his chest. He screams.

[blackout]“I’ll ask you one more time. I want an answer or your brains will decorate the walls. Did the Illuminati have anything to do with the sky falling?”
[/blackout]

“Y-yes?” he managed to mutter.

[blackout]“Hmmm….”[/blackout]

I lowered my gun.

[blackout]“And what else do you know about the Illuminati?”[/blackout]

“Nothing! Please, I—”

I brandish the pistol again.

[blackout]“You can’t know that they were behind the sky falling and not know anything else. Are you a member of the Illuminati?”[/blackout]

“No, no!”

[blackout]“No? Hmm…probably a Free Mason or some other sub-faction. Listen to me—I am sparing you only so that you provide me with information in the future. Understood? You are to tell the police a robber did this, understand? A robber.”[/blackout]

He nods slowly. His eyes are so wide with fear they nearly bulge out of their sockets.

[blackout]“Find out whatever you can at your next meeting and I won’t shoot you in the face next time I visit. Goodbye.”[/blackout]

A lift my boot from his chest and begin to make my way. I stop dead in my tracks when I realize I forgot something. I turn around and walk back over to the man, still cowering on the floor.

[blackout]“I’m taking this,”[/blackout] I say as I pick up his shotgun and head outside. Had other business to attend to. Someone contacted me, not sure how they found me or who they are. Wants to meet up. A trap? Possibly. Probably. But I'll be ready.

 

[-Axl-]

Hydro-frost

As 4:00 o'clock in the morning drew near, Axl downed his third beer of the night. He was supposed to have company soon, another;another like him. The room was dark with the only light coming from the 2 lamps on opposite walls of the room. He sifted through papers at his desk, old documents of his uncles in the 60's.


Most of the documents were similar, transaction records from the government until he came across one, one that seemed to 'stick out' from the others. It looked quite the same but at the bottom was a signature different from the others,Axl read it aloud:


"John F. Kennedy. Hmm, didn't know he was that important."


Shoving the papers back into one of the many drawers of his desk, he pressed a small red button inside said drawer which caused a loud, slightly annoying 'beeping' sound to echo through the hallways just outside the room. Almost instantly, a man dressed in a black tuxedo burst into the room. He approached the desk and with a blank and emotionless voice said:


"Sir, you called me?"


"Yes, do a background check on this guy. I want you to tell me anything and everything you know about him. Date of birth, Ethnicity, Age, Everything!"

Axl said as he stood from his chair and opened the doors to the outside balcony to let a breeze into the warm and musty room...hell it'd been sealed up from everything for nearly 50 years. His men had recently tried to clean the place up for his arrival but it still wasn't great.


The man left the room with an understanding nod, closing the door behind him. A few minutes later he returned with a stack of papers encased in a manila folder, the folder itself had words stamped on it in read ink that read out simply The Dummy.

Axl ad called the man who went by the name of The Dummy simply because he might be another like himself, and that is what e wanted. Once he found this help, not only could he assure himself that he wasn't alone, but also he needed help taking down the Mob, who had killed his father. Surprisingly, the Folder contained very little information on the man and as he read through the few documents, the same man who had brought him the folder took out is cell pone and with an understanding nod once again, hung up.

"Sir, he's arrived, should we bring him in?" said the man.

Axl hesitated for a second but finally said: "Yes, Yes bring him in"

 

[Hatman]

The suburban streets of New York were a hostile terrain at night. A large number of lowlives had made certain areas their 'patch' and frowned violently upon anyone who would trespass. Several rundown apartment blocks created the shadowy ally ways that were treacherous to those who carried any kind of currency. A few apartments were occupied with but a single light bulb to illuminate the room. Television sets blurted their noise from open windows, mixing the sounds of 'Lost' with news reports mumbling about world affairs.

Adam Hunt, a recent arrival to the area had decided to take a stroll through the main streets to better familiarise himself with the surroundings. It was certainly bigger than his home city of Coventry in England and he couldn't help but marvel at the splendour of the high-rises as he held onto his hat and craned his neck back to see the top.

As Adam rounded a corner, he heard a yelp. He looked around as though he were expecting a small dog to be standing behind him. No dog. The yelp called out again, this time with a more desperate tone to it, then a scream. The scream was followed by the rough voice of a man issuing the command, 'shut up!'. Without thinking, Adam dashed toward the direction of the scuffle and turned a corner into an alleyway. He could just make out a tall black individual standing over a terrified elderly woman.

"HEY!" Adam shouted and the man turned his attention toward him,

"Get outta here. This don't concern you!"

Adam could clearly see the woman's face was one of terror and begging for help. The thug was casually fumbling through her purse. He didn't appear to be armed so Adam stood his ground,

"Leave her alone!"

The man was now totally focused on him,

"Or what?!"

Adam gulped and hoped it wasn't noticeable,

"The Police are on their way and I would suggest that you give that lady her property back or I'll..."

His sentence was interrupted by the sight two of the man's comrades stepping out of the shadows. They made no secret that they were carrying guns and flashed their Sig-Sauer pistols respectively.

"Okay English boy. We're gonna send you home in boxes."

The three advanced on Adam as he steadily quickened his pace away from them. The lady managed to get to her feet and make a discreet escape in the other direction. It was at that point when Adam ran.

Behind him he could hear mocking laughter interspaced between threats of disembowelling and head ripping. They were obviously toying with him as they forced him down a dark street toward an industrial area. Adam saw a large abandoned warehouse and dashed inside. The darkness and the stench were overwhelming and Adam hoped that if he kept quiet, then he might just lose his pursuers. He stepped carefully deeper into the room. He had no idea where he was going, but was feeling drawn somewhere. He had little to lose by obliging and followed his instincts. Adam instantly regretted that action as he tripped and fell into what apparently was a pit.

He tried to find his orientation and his hand touched something cold. It was metal, buried in the soft ground. Adam dug at the object, hoping he might be able to use it as a weapon against his attackers. He pulled the object clear and felt a second one next to it. They felt like knives or daggers perhaps and Adam reached for the second one. He had never been so surprised in his life for when he touched it, it began to glow intensely. In his mind, Adam could see something being projected before him. It was a young woman, a girl even, dressed in clothing that seemed elegant, outdated as though she belonged to a different time.

"We have waited for you for so very long Adam."

"H... how do you know my name?"

The girl smiled,

"I know everything now," she beckoned at the daggers Adam was holding, "you hold in your hands the Soul Sai of the ancient Xenphian Dynasty. You have a destiny to become the Warrior of Xenphia."

Adam gasped in awe. He was still finding it hard to fathom the existence of the entity before him,

"Warrior of Xenphia? Soul Sai? What is happening?"

"I don't have time to explain. Your assailants will be here in moments. Please trust me Adam. Cross the Soul Sai and you will discover the truth."

Adam didn't know why, but he felt like he knew this girl and could trust her. Seeing that there was little choice, Adam crossed the blades over each other.

BOOM! The result was a bright flash and Adam's arms being pulled up above his head. Lightening raged from the blades and struck out at his hat. Adam felt what could only be described as pure energy flowing through him and he tried to stop what was happening but he couldn't. Then there was another flash and all was silent.

"Hey, where’d that lil' punk go?" The trio had entered the warehouse Adam had dashed into only moments before. The smaller, pale gangster cocked his weapon as did the others.

"Maybe he ran home?"

A clang of metal being disturbed rang out and the leader smiled sadistically, his gold plated teeth shining in the dim light,

"Nah, he's here."

They progressed further when a shadow covered the entrance. The trio turned and saw a confident looking indicidual standing in the doorway with his hands on his hips. His knee-length cape flapped at the breeze and his hat seemed to glow with energy,

"Are you looking for someone gentlemen?"

The leader smiled. Obviously this was just some nutcase trying to be a hero,

"Who da hell do you think you are. Superman?" The three raised their pistols and fired. They laughed as the muzzle flashes illuminated the darkness, however they began to stop when they saw that the man was still standing. He was holding two sai and there were bullet holes splashed randomly around everywhere. The stranger's only response was,

"Surely Superman is a fictional character is he not?"

The leader wasn't impressed and signalled his second to attack. His second drew a large, Rambo-like knife and smiled confidently,

"I hope you like sliced meat." And he charged. His moves were indicative of a black belt in Tae kwon do, but his attack was effortlessly deflected by the stranger who stepped to one side and flicked his right hand. The second fell flat and realised that his knife had been broken somehow. The leader grabbed hold of a long metal pike and held it in front of him. The stranger flicked both his sai together and they transformed into a long sword. The leader was getting pretty annoyed by this point and decided to charge. The stranger parried and the leader followed through which was blocked as he was pulled to the opposite side. The second tried to join in and threw his broken weapon and the stranger. But it was deflected toward the smaller thug who was knocked unconscious as he reloaded his weapon. The second fumbled around and found a rusted crowbar.

The three of them were now standing in a triangle shape, the two gangsters moving closer to the stranger. He eyed the pair, then pulled his sword apart. The weapon reverted back to a pair of sai which he then attached together hilt-to-hilt. The weapon changed again onto a long staff and the stranger twirled it accordingly. The two gangsters saw their opportunity and attacked. The leader thrust forward but was blocked before his pike was forced up to stop the Second's strike with his crowbar. The stranger kicked out and caught the Second in the chest who fell backward wheezing. He followed through by bringing the other end of his staff to connect to the forearm of the leader who reeled backward in pain.

After a short recovery, the gangsters now had the stranger between them. They each knew what the other was thinking and they both charged forward with the intention of sandwiching the stranger between their weapons. They could not believe their eyes however when the caped individual suddenly lifted into the air. Both their eyes were locked onto him and so they couldn't stop themselves from smashing into each other. The stranger smiled as he landed softly and gathered the three unconscious thugs together.

The mugged lady was wrapped in a blanket as she gave her statement to the officer. Several Police cars were parked on the kerb as well as an ambulance with their flashing lights illuminating the area.

"There were three of them and then this young man came round and saved me."

"Can you describe any of these men madam?"

The lady looked up as if to think about it but suddenly spotted something."

"Yes, they looked like.... they looked like THEM!"

The officer glanced in the direction of the lady's pointed finger and suddenly shouted,

"HEY I NEED SOME HELP OVER HERE!"

Dangling from a fire escape were the three unconscious hoodlums all tied together in industrial rope. As the commotion grew, the Leader began to wake. Finally the officer reached the top and reached over to the hanging trio.

"What the hell happened to you?"

The Leader's face was one of panic,

"It was the hat man. The HAT MAN!"

The lady smiled delightfully.

 

[Hatman]

The stranger was standing on the loneliest spot on top of the Empire State Building. He was admiring the breath taking view of the city whilst replaying his actions of the evening. Not only had he single handily rounded up three dangerous gangsters, he had prevented a car jacking, stopped a woman from falling into the bay off Brooklyn Bridge and brought a sinking boat back to the harbour. He instinctively reached for and removed his hat as if to mop his brow. At that point, there was a soft flash and Adam had reverted back to normal again. His hat was gone and he realised just how high up he was. He backed away from the edge as he took a deep breath. He felt almost giddy and started laughing as a result as he sat down with a bump.

“Wha… what happened to me?” He said to himself, not really expecting an answer.

In his mind, the image of the young woman appeared. She looked as innocent as she did the first time he saw her,

“You became the Warrior of Xenphia. The protector of the innocent,”

Adam looked at her with an awe unlike anything he had felt before and also the need to have a thousand questions answered,

"The warrior of what? Are you telling me that I transformed into… into someone else?”

“No. The person you are still remained, but bestowed upon you were the knowledge, experience and powers of all the previous Xenphian warriors."

Adam's thoughts were chaotic for a moment, which was unsurprising considering the events of the evening. He looked at the apparition before him, uncertain as to whether she was real or a figmant of his imagination, "Who are you, how did you know my name?"

"I know you Adam because you are the decendent of the Noble Blood. My soul resides in the sai you now possess. I am the last princess of the Xenphian Dynasty.”

Adam couldn’t quite take it all in. For a while, he felt as though he knew things, felt memories that were not his own, but it was all fading away rapidly,

“I… I have never seen such a thing before in my life! I fought those people with a skill I never learned. And I actually… flew. I could FLY!”

The princess smiled at Adam’s disbelief,

“I have never before encountered anyone who had been so surprised by the power of the Soul Sai.”

“Somehow I doubt many people in this day and age know anything about these Soul Sai or the Xenphian dynasty. Including me.”

The princess took a deep breath, knowing that she would have to explain a great deal,

“There was a time when the world was ruled by the Xenphian Dynasty. We chose to live in harmony but there were those who challenged our sovereign claim and did all they could to destroy us. The warrior of Xenphia, the one chosen from the noble blood once every generation, protected the innocent with the power of the Soul Sai.” Adam fumbled behind him and found the sai were attached to his belt. He took them in his hands and they seemed to glow gently, “You have been granted a destiny to protect against those who would harm the innocent. The Soul Sai will give you the power you need to forfill that destiny.”

Adam felt humbled and looked up at the princess,

“What powers do I have?”

“As the warrior of Xenphia, you are granted the power of strength, the wisdom of combat and the gift of flight. You will have the experience of those who came before and finally, I shall exist as a guide for you through the difficult times ahead.”

“All this for fighting petty thugs?”

“You are free to use your powers as you see fit, but use them wisely. There is more evil in the world than you can imagine. I know you Adam, it is in your nature to challenge evil and I know that you are responsible. You know what you must do.”

Adam stood up slowly. A revelation so vast it was almost inconceivable was filling his mind as he began to understand the nature of his destiny. The princess smiled as she saw this and disappeared from his mind. Adam looked once again at the Soul Sai, slowly raised them above his head and crossed the blades…

 

[Hatman]

...Adam woke with a start! It was only a dream. He looked across at his bedside clock and almost cursed out loud when he realised he had overslept. He rushed to get his clothes on whilst trying to eat toast and drink tea at the same time. He was just about to leave the front door when he suddenly realised he didn’t have his favourite hat. It was a baseball cap given to him by his mother when he was very young before she died. Since that time, he had regarded the headwear as something of a lucky omen and a reminder to him that she was always with him. This time he did curse loudly when he couldn’t find it but it was getting close to 9:00 and he had a ten-minute taxi drive to get to his new job. After an annoyed huff, he gave up and left.

Yellow cabs were practically a common sight in New York but for some reason Adam couldn’t find one. After letting out a frustrated sigh, he began to run in the direction of his employment. The busy traffic kept him from dashing across the road like a madman and the crowds of people also rushing to work didn’t help matters either. Finally a yellow cab pulled over and Adam ran toward it. Before he could get in, a woman in a red suit barged passed issuing a statement along the lines of ‘get outta my way!’ and dived in the back. It was all Adam could do to stop himself from blasting out profanities as the cab drove off. However all was not lost when another cab pulled up behind him. This time Adam made it inside and fumbled in his pockets for change as he stated his desired direction,

“NYC TV station please driver.” The Rastafarian acknowledged with an ‘Aye mon’ before shooting into the impatient traffic without so much as a signal.

Adam had managed to make himself more presentable by the time he got inside the New York City Television Station. He had for a split second thought he’d forgotten his ID pass but breathed a sigh of relief when he found it in this trouser pocket. Security guards were standing at various points in the lobby as he walked through to his new work place on the 10th floor.

Casey Ashton, the station manager tutted loudly when he saw Adam rush in. He was a grey, balding man in his late fifties wearing a blue shirt, a waistcoat and an expensive looking pair of shoes. Casey had served in the military and was a veteran of the first Gulf war and who decided on the quiet life after the conflict ended. However today was utterly chaotic as helpers and researchers dashed between offices, apparently because something big had happened. Casey did not want anything to go wrong and Adam didn’t help matters.

“Hunt! What time do you call this? This is the worst possible way to start a new job.” His voice was coarse like a sergeant major’s,

“I’m sorry Mr. Ashton. Bad traffic and all that…”

“Don’t give me that. Your Father would be disappointed in you if he heard you use that excuse.” He beckoned Adam toward the studio floor, “Now you’re here to do some 'running'. Go run and see if Alison needs anything before she goes on air.”

“Yes Mr. Ashton.” Adam nipped toward the studio and could not believe his eyes when he saw her. Alison McGill, the station’s news presenter was the very woman who took his taxi and almost stopped him from getting to work. Adam gritted his teeth as he walked up to her. She didn't seem to notice him,

“Ms. McGill? My name is Adam Hunt and I’ve just started here today. I'm here to..."

“A cup of coffee and hurry. I didn’t have time this morning so I need some.”

Adam was slightly taken aback by her abruptness. Not even a 'hello, welome to the studio'? He then noticed Casey glaring at him before he grudgingly obliged and went to get her a coffee. He came back a minute later with a polystyrene cup filled with hot, steaming coffee and handed it to her.

“What’s this?”

“It is coffee Ms. McGill.”

“No. This is processed trash. I wanted a FRESH cup of coffee. What’s the matter don’t you have coffee in England?”

Adam began to feel the same as he did when she took his taxi and quickly developed a sudden dislike for her.

“Wait, have I seen you before?”

Adam perked slightly when she said this,

“Yes, I think we briefly met before you got into m… a cab.”

“Ah yes I remember now. You’re too slow Adam. You’ve got to be sharp like me if you want to make it in this industry.” Just then, a voice rang out informing everyone that they were going live in five minutes, “Oh damn I’ll have to go without now. Next time, remember to use fresh coffee.”

Alison walked off toward her desk leaving a fuming Adam standing alone with an unwanted, polystyrene cup of processed coffee. His attention was suddenly drawn to the screens in the vision mixing room. There before him were various video clips of a caped individual with a hat engaging in different activities! One showed the man lifting a car by its tail end apparently preventing a car jacking. Another showed the same man deflecting bullets after a foiled bank robbery. Adam dropped the cup. It wasn't a dream! ...

 

[Johnny Drama]

Previously on...

[blackout]-ULTIMA-[/blackout]

"Uh, I still do. you don't look so good, Mr. Lorne. Let me get this vaccine in you and we can have you on your way" Jessica says.
Just then, Ari's eyes begin to glow and he forms a sinister smile on his face.
"Oh, No...We won't be doing that today..." Ultima says.

S.T.R.I.K.E agent Frank West has his phone to his ear.

"Yes sir. If all goes according to plan, 'The Executioner Operation' will be in affect by next week.
Frank closes his phone and puts it in his pocket. It's then that he hears the terrifying screams coming from the holding cell down the hall.

"AAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!"
"AAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!"

ULTIMA flies through the air for the first time of his life, relishing in his new power. Ultima smiles as the wind washes over his face. The air is cold and the sky is dark. Ultima then opens up his palm and giggles like a baby when a pink orb of energy forms around his hand. His aims his hand at the sky an unleashes a huge blast.
BOOM
"Okay Lost Haven. You haven't seen anything yet." Ultima says before he flies away faster than what seems like the speed of light.

"I'm all about business, Spartan. You know that. I want to talk to you about The Executioner Operation. I've got orders to commission a special ops team of metahumans to 'handle' certain targets that are a little too much for one man. I need the best of the best, Spartan and I want you to lead my Executioners. What do you say?" Agent West asks.

"It would be my honor. " Spartan says

[blackout]"Brand New Day" part one[/blackout]

Ultima sits in what was once Ari Lornes apartment, lounging in a fully reclined Laz-E-Boy. With his palm extended towards the television, he seems to be using his telekinetic powers to change the channels with his mind. When he comes across channel 8, he finds the news talking about his recent altercation with Icon.

"...And amidst an exploding moon raining down on Lost Haven, Icon himself had the fight of his life when a superpowerd terrorist hijacked one of the buses evacuating the city..."

Ultima changes the channel, until he gets to channel 10.

"The King Of Pop has died at 50 years old, his heart attack seeming to coincide with the recent destruction of the moon. It has yet to be confirmed whether or not his heart attack was related to the disaster"

Ultima looks at the image of Michael Jackson on the screen and shapeshifts, taking on the image of a young Michael Jackson in his thriller days.

"I can't moonwalk without my moon" Ultima says before breaking out into an hysterical giggle.
"Hehehehehe!!!"

Ultima keeps flicking through the channels until he gets to Channel 13. Family Guy is on, and Ultima drops the MJ form and reverts back to himself. He smiles wildly at baby Stewie, Ultima's favorite cartoon character.

"Did you hear that Meg? Guys can marry other guys now. So...this is awkward, but I mean, if they can do that, that is pretty much it for you, isn't it? I mean you as well pack it in. Game over."

"Bwahahahahahaha!!!"

"So this is why we sent you back to earth..." says a tall, blue skinned man emerging from the shadows behind Ultima.

"Daraka..." Ultima says

"You have an obligation to the planet Arlaaek, Ultima. It's time for you to honor your commitments..."

[BLACKOUT] -40 years ago-[/BLACKOUT]

"Auto sequence start" Mission Commander Chris Kennedy hears over the radio as he sits within the control deck of the U.S.S Supernova, a space shuttle bound for a secret voyage into space, going beyond the moon for the first time ever.
"T-Minus 15 seconds and counting" he hears as he lets out a deep breath. The astronaut to his left, Command Module Pilot Paul Stark, mans the controls.
"14..."
Lunar Module Pilot Casper Jones shoots Chris a thumbs up and a wide smile.
"13"
"We are going to do it, Chris. This is what we were born for" Casper says.
"12"
"History in the making, Casper" Chris replies.

"11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, Main engine start, 3, 2, Booster ignition, and Lift Off!!"

The shuttles takes off into flight, a magnificent sight to behold. The shuttles flies for what seems like a lifetime until it reaches the stars.

"Welcome to space, guys" Chris replies.

Suddenly, A green flash of light explodes in the distance as a huge black cloud quickly approaches.

"What the hell is THAT!?!" Paul asks.

"I don't know, we just lost all of our communication with command central. The whole damn system is down..." Casper replies.

"It's getting closer..." Chris says

The black cloud consumes the shuttle. All the 3 astronauts can is green radiation entering their confines like a thick fog.

"What in gods name is happening!?!" Chris asks.

"I don't know, all the computers are down. I can't read the screens, we have no power" Casper replies.

"Casper, can you get the power up??" Chris asks


"My f**king skin is burning!" Paul says.

The green fog begins eating away at the astronauts space suits like an acid, and then shuttle begins to split in half. Paul's helmet shatters and his face begins to turn purple as he looses all of his oxygen.
"What the f**k!?!" Yells Chris.
"Aaaaaaah!!" Casper screams. Chris panics and rushes towards Paul, but it is too late. Paul's head has already caved in due to the being exposed in outer space.
"Casper, can you get the power back on?"
"I...I..." Casper says before pausing.
"You NEED to try!" Chris interrupts.
Casper rushes towards the controls, although both Casper and Chris know this is futile and that they are both doomed.
The control board where Casper is near catches fire, which spreads quickly. Casper tries desperately to get the Supernovas power on, but he is consumed by the flames at the ships control deck.
"AAAAAAAGGHGG!!" Casper screams.
"NOOOO!!!" Chris yells as he watches his fiend burn. Chris' helmet begins to crack under the pressure, Chris just closes his eyes and begins to pray.
"Our Father, Who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name."
The shuttle rips into two pieces, Casper and Paul's bodies are freed into outer space as the lower half of the shuttle continues to burn.
Chris watches as he clings to the other half of the shuttle.
"Thy Kingdom come.
Thy Will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread."
The flaming half of the shuttle explodes in the distance as Chris continues to pray on the remaining half of the shuttle.
"forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen" Chris finishes as his helmet completely shatters and exposes his head.
ZOOM
Just then, the green flash reappears and the shuttle vanishes, the black cloud consuming itself behind it until all that is left is cloud of smoke.



"Where am I?" Chris thinks as he awakens in an empty white room. Chris feels strange, different. He looks around but there is nothing in the room but a large mechanical door, with no knob a strange oval mirror, illuminated by a blue neon light above it.
Chris attempts to get up and walk towards the mirror, but falls to his feet as soon as he rises. He has no strength right now. He manages to crawl towards the mirror and pull himself up. Chris looks in the mirror and is shocked to see what he has found...

His once blond hair now jet black, his skin now snow white and his once blue eyes now a glowing yellow.
"What...What am I?" He asks himself. Chris tries to remember what brought him to this place, but he can not even remember his name...
"Who am I?" He finally asks. Chris notices a large cut on the side of his head, stitched up.

Then, through the one airlock door in the room, a tall blue man enters.
Chris panics and backwards at the site of this...man.

"Christopher Kennedy of Earth. We have been awaiting your arrival. 5 years later than expected but alas, we are glad you could make it. Welcome to the planet Arlaaek, I am Dr. Daraka" he says.

"What...Who...I..." He says, trying to find the words.

"The wormhole you entered brought you to us, as we expected. Your comrades are dead but we treated you of your radiation poisoning. But you have been changed. You are different now, Christopher Kennedy of Earth."

"What...what did you do to my head?" He asks.

"You belong to The planet Arlaaek now, Christopher Kennedy. Your world launched you to your death, our world took you in and saved your life, not only saved it, but made it better"

"Made it better?"

"Your world will soon be ours, and we are willing to let you walk among us when we take it. You are no longer one of them, you are no longer human. You will soon find yourself hungry, so hungry it will drive you mad. You will only be able to find satisfaction in human flesh, primarily brains. You will be our general on Earth, Christopher, because you will use your hunger to seek out and devour earths mightiest heroes, those that would attempt to stop us when we invade."

"But what did you do...to my head?"

"We implanted a microscopic computing system in the form of a chip, something to help keep contact with you when we return you to Earth. The CHIP also ensures you do as we say, or it shuts your entire body down, sending an electrical charge in your brain and exploding within your head"

"Why would you do that do me!?!"

"Because we save your life. We saved your life and now we own you. We could have let you die, especially since that radiation turned you into a monster. But you are going to go back home, and kill for us. You are no longer Christopher Kennedy, you are now ULTIMA, the walking apocalypse."



[BLACKOUT] NOW-[/BLACKOUT]

"Daraka..." Ultima says

"You have an obligation to the planet Arlaaek, Ultima. It's time for you to honor your commitments..."

"If I have told you once, I have told you a thousand times. Stay out of my head..."

"Perhaps if you would do as we tell you, I wouldn't need to transmit these silly hallucinations..."

"This damned CHIP is making me crazy, seeing thing, PEOPLE that aren't there, making me think I am someone I am not..."

"And I suppose you would blame loosing a battle to Icon on the CHIP as well. Ultima, the powers that be are not happy with you. You are simply not producing the results they would have liked."

"So what, I am terminated?"

"Not quite, Ultima. We will give you another chance, let you develop more, and then...We want Icon DEAD."

Daraka vanishes into thin air. Angered, Ultima emits a blast of energy from the palm of his hand and delivers it to the television set.

"Yesterday I lost to Icon. But today is a brand new day..."


[BLACKOUT]TO BE CONTINUED[/BLACKOUT]

 

[Hatman]

“…And… we’re clear. Thanks everyone that was really great.” Mike, the floor manager gave a satisfied, yet ‘come-on’ wink at Alison who simply eyed him with a dangerous look. The ambient lights rose as the studio crew started setting up their equipment for the next bulletin at 10pm. Adam was coiling up the camera cables, looking quite bored. He put a tidy coil neatly on the floor near the exit as Alison walked passed and she stepped over them making the cable scatter. Adam looked at her, almost convinced she did it deliberately.

“Oh did you have to put that there? I could have fallen you know.” Her winging didn’t convince Adam for a second and the rest of the crew simply carried on as she walked out.

“That’s where it’s supposed to go.” He muttered under his breath as she left.

Casey came up to Alison with a huge grin on his face,

“Alison, your report on that caped vigilante was fantastic. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Alison shrugged and smiled insincerely as Adam exited the studio,

“Well, you’d have to find another anchor-girl wouldn’t you?”

Casey just nodded after realising that his compliment fell short and then spotted Adam,

“Hunt.” Adam walked over, “you did a good job today. I’ll overlook your little mis-timing from this morning.”

“Er… thanks Mr. Ashton. I’ll be on time tomorrow.”

“See that you are.” Casey walked off leaving Adam feeling slightly unnerved and then he spotted Alison entering the elevator. The day could have gone better and he didn’t really like the fact that he and Alison got off on the wrong start. Maybe she felt the same too? He grabbed his coat and dashed down the stairs in order to intercept her in reception.

The elevator doors opened and out walked Alison followed by Mike who seemed to be harassing her,

“C’mon, I got two tickets for the superbowel. Me and you can go together, it would be fun.” He seemed overly optimistic but Alison was the exact opposite,

“Mike,” she smiled with pretend politeness, “when will you get your brain fixed? ‘No’ does not mean ‘yes’ no matter how many times you think I may have said it.”

Mike shot his arm into the doorway blocking Alison's path, “I know you can’t resist me,” he said with a sneer. Alison just rolled her eyes and pushed past Mike who seemed surprised her strength “It’s only a matter of time Alison!”

The evening was dark and Adam was waiting outside, hoping to try to get to know his fellow worker better. He hopped in step beside her as she left the building,

“Hi. That was a really good interview with the mayor earlier.”

Alison rolled her eyes and displayed and effortlessly fake gratitude, “Thanks.”

“Look, I think we got off on the wrong foot. Why don’t we start afresh?”

Alison stopped and looked directly at Adam,

“I think we ‘got off’ just fine Hunt. I do not want, neither do I require an escort to talk at me all the way home.”

Adam felt a little hurt that she just dismissed him like that. After all, it wasn’t as if he was harassing her or anything. He stood there as she rounded a corner and walked off in the other direction shaking his head. He barely moved ten metres when he suddenly heard a scream. It was Alison! Adam instinctively dashed into a quiet spot and reached behind him. And to his surprise he pulled the Soul Sai straight from his belt. Without thinking he crossed them above his head.

Alison was in the grip of two rough individuals who where literally tearing her handbag apart. One had a knife held at her throat as the other directed them toward a darker spot.

“C’mon, she’s that ***** on the news! She’s gotta have some green on her somewhere!”

“I'm lookin' alright! Probably a secret compartment or sommink”

They rounded a corner and were suddenly stopped by a caped stranger wearing a glowing hat. The two looked straight at him with surprise,

“Excuse me gentlemen but I believe that is not your property.”

The thug with the knife held her closer as the other pulled a chain from his coat,

“It’s the hat man!”

The thug with the chain dived forward but his weapon caught the tip of the stranger’s sai and was pulled head-over-heals. He landed hard and was knocked out cold. The other held the knife closer to Alison’s throat and her eyes were filled with fear,

“Do… don’t come any closer man! I’ll do her, I MEAN it!” Now his eyes filled with fear as the stranger moved closer, “Toss yer daggers away. D… DO IT! Or I’ll cut her up! I WILL!”

The stranger paused for a moment and then threw both his sai outward in the opposite direction. The thug smiled and began to feel more confident,

“Huh. Y… yer not so tough after all.”

“Aren’t I?”

The thug was about to advance when he suddenly felt something sharp pierce the back of his coat and push him toward the ground. With quick reflexes, the stranger grabbed Alison as the knifeman was pinned to the ground by his sai. The other one got up and ran away as the stranger pulled his weapons from the ground whilst keeping the thug pinned,

“Do yourself a favour and get a proper life.” He reached down and hauled him up, “You will find it considerably more trouble free.”

The thug never argued and ran as soon as he was released. Alison had her back up against the alley wall, staring at her conspicuous saviour as he sheathed his sai,

“Wh… who are you?” she began to catch her breath, “Are you… Hatman?”

He looked at her with genuine concern on his face,

“Yes I suppose I am. Are you okay Miss?”

Alison couldn’t help but smile as Hatman offered out his hand,

“Yes I’m a lot better now.” She took his hand gracefully and her heart started pounding, “So you ARE real? I mean… you’re not a nut or anything?”

Hatman chuckled slightly,

“Miss, if I were a ‘nut’, then the rest of them would have made the streets a much safer place by now.”

Alison’s fear melted away and was quickly replaced by an opportunity that entered her mind,

“Listen, I’m a presenter at the local news station. I’d… love to interview you. I’m sure the people would want to know…”

“Urm, your handbag is getting wet.”

Alison looked down and picked up the tattered remains of her leather bag,

“Oh jeez. They’ve ruined this now I…” She looked up and her savoir was gone. She glanced in both directions of the alleyway and there was no sign of him. Suddenly, Adam ran round the corner with a shocked expression on his face,

“Alison! Are you okay? I heard a scream.” Alison didn’t answer immediately as she looked up at the clear night sky. Adam followed suite and gazed with her, “It’s a nice night.” That got her attention as she snapped round to face him,

“Hmm? Yes I’m okay. You’re a little late though,” Adam was about to give an explanation but Alison interrupted him, “you missed Hatman.”

Adam tried to look confused,

“Hatman?”

“He’s real Hunt, and he’s incredible.”

“You mean the flying guy with the hat you reported about earlier?”

“Who else?” There was a moment of silence before Alison spoke again, “I’d… appreciate it if you took me home?”

Adam smiled and beckoned at the exit of the alleyway, “It would be a pleasure.”

Alison left the alley first and Adam felt urged to looked up at the sky again. He didn't know why but the smallest of instincts inside him felt... ... unsettled. Adam shook off the feeling as quickly as it came and walked Alison back to her apartment.

 

[Rain Dog]

"Sir, he's arrived, should we bring him in?" said the man.

Axl hesitated for a second but finally said: "Yes, Yes bring him in"

I cautiously step into the dimly root. I take a look around--musty and decadent. A mysterious man stands by a desk. Is this the one who summoned me? All these guards, these underlings of his--it tells me he has power. Quite a bit of power. Makes me suspicious. Makes me nervous. Should have consulted Mubbles. What if he's with the Illuminati? Possibly. Probably. Certainly, I'm certain he is. I place my hand on my holster.

[blackout]
"Who are you and how did you find me?"
[/blackout]

 

[NiteMare Shape]

​

I reach down into the rubble and feel around until I find what I'm looking for: the subway car that was burried when the debris from the lunar rock struck the surface above the tunnel that in which it was traveling.

"I've got it." I say as I begin spinning at an excellerated rate of speed and begin digging into the rubble, carving a new tunnel to the train where rescue workers can reach the passengers trapped in side.

It only takes me a few moments to clear a path the size of a two car garage from the surface to the train. I take a quick look around assessing the situation, making sure that everything is secure enough to even begin a rescue operation. Once I'm satisfied that there won't be another collapse I force the doors open and step inside the subway car.

"OK everyone, there are rescue workers on their way in to get everyone out. Now, is everyone alright? Is anyone hurt?"

Even as the passengers all speak on top of each other confirming injuries and asking questions about what had happened, the rescue workers have gotten to us and have begun entering the train, checking on the passengers.

Once the rescue crew has gained control of the situation, I take my leave, flying off to where I am needed next.

Several Miles off the Coast off Lost Haven...

The prison island known by most as Tartarus is infamous for its strict enforcement of its rules, and harsh punishment for those who would dare violate those policies. Tartarus can be so brutal that it has been referred to as a hell on Earth.

And tonight, Hell is burning.

A stray piece of debris from the giant lunar rock struck the prison island, setting its inhabitants free. With all communications down, there was no way for the gaurds and prison officials to call for help. And with no way to communicate with the outside world...nobody on the mainland knew what had happened. The gaurds were quickly overtaken, and soon the inmates had taken control of the island. Soon, they had taken the prison staff boats to get off the island, and make their way back to the mainland.

 

[Spike_x1]

MADLOVE​

I look up at the dark figure. Another monster has stumbled into my church. My sermon was interrupted, my followers are terrified. The newcomers have probably fled by now and were well on their way to alert authorities, no doubt. These damned creatures are trying to ruin my new empire.

I slowly rise to my feet.



Crap? How crass. I have had quite enough. I suppose I could just vaporize the two of them. But that would be too risky. The energy required for such a feat would probably end up killing most, if not all of my followers. At least I think it will. I’m still not entirely sure how stable my powers are in this form. Not to mention that the usage of such power might alert my people of my whereabouts. I can’t risk that now. I need to get away from these creatures. I will deal with them some other time.

“Children! I need your help! Another Negative has been summoned!”

A few followers spring up to their feet and run towards us.

“Tear them apart! Banish them from this realm! I cannot do it alone!”​

More and more church-goers begin to swarm around the two. They throw themselves at the “Negatives”, punching, kicking, clawing, biting, doing everything they can to bring them down.

The Survivor had lost track of Archangel during the fight as swarms of Madlove's followers piled onto him. There were too many to fight off with any sense of grace, and Adam had to consciously hold back his punches to avoid killing the lot of them, and the end result was exactly what the mad preacher had wanted: a distraction to allow him to make his escape.

"Get off me! You're all morons!" he screamed at his attackers. "Angel-Guy? You need any help?" Calling for the other man who seemed to be on his side, the Survivor didn't hear a response before things got worse...

“Outside, quickly! Get to safety!” I call out the remaining churchgoers. The remaining followers storm out of the church like a stampede. I take one last look at my church and at the loyal followers who continued to swarm and attack the two monsters.

“Your sacrifices shall not be in vain,” I muttered as I step outside and shut the doors behind me. I stand in front of the building and hold my hands up to the heavens. I shut my eyes and concentrate for a moment. The ground rumbles, the walls tremble. I jerk my hands downward and the church roof caves in. Another quick jerk and the walls crumble. Everything and everyone inside was now buried under tons of concrete and steel.

I tell my followers that we should return to our respective homes for now and quickly leave the scene.

The Church of Madlove was done. For now.

An agonizing hour later, rescue crews finally got around to reaching the collapsed church on their tour of the city's countless damaged buildings. Underneath of the rubble, the workers eventually dug down deep enough to find a wall of steel and bricks being held up to protect a small frightened crowd of drugged out followers of the Church of Madlove from the tons of ruination above them.

One of the rescue workers crawled over to the superhero. "Y-you're that Senator--"

"Survivor," Adam corrected.

"You're that Survivor!" Checking the pulses of the unconscious churchgoers as he spoke, the flashlight on the man's hardhat annoyed the Survivor without fail every time that the light hit his eyes in the pitch black quarters. "I saw on the news when you and the Blue Blur took on these--"

"Just get me and these people out of here, pal. And if you find a guy who looks like an angel--with wings and everything--down here too, give him my regards."