Rise of the Neohumans [IC]

[Silverkiss]

For many years now, strange events have occured around the globe. Energy waves and sudden explosions, together with a strange radiation emmanated. What's stranger is not the events themselves, thought, but what they produce. Humans affected by the waves of energy develop strange and unusual abilities, close to that of superheroes of the HQs. At first, the Neohumans, as they are called, where victims of fear and prejudice, but the world is starting to comprehend them, and the life of a neohuman can be accepted and at least tolerated by most of the population.

In the middle of the countryside of England there is a city with an anormal ammount of neohumans. This city, Silverwood City, is your home. For it's great numbers of neohumans, the city is also one of the most tolerable places for them to live. However, there is also a great problem, the rate of crimes commited by neohumans has increased lately. This could be because of a general increase in neohuman's numbers, or just some weird consequence of mistreatment.

One such criminal neohuman is the Hangman, a maniac who likes to hang it's victims to death. After many deaths caused by this serial killer, a wave of agressions against neohumans started, and the neohuman image in the city fell into that of criminals and scum of the society.

Now, there is a public debate going on in one of the city's parks where both humans and neohumans are fighting for neohuman rights. For one reason or another, you're attending the debate, even if just to see who is there. There are a lot of people gathered, and some are shouting their ideas to any one who would listen, others are just talking, and some yet are just observing. There are a few neohumans openly using their powers, but most must be hiding their identities.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

It wasn't hard for the man who called himself Nexus to hide his powers. They weren't the kind of thing that was easy to openly notice - unless, of course, you looked closely at the various items he had concealed under the long black overcoat he wore. It was an eclectic mix of stuff indeed - although someone with the proper background would be surprised to note that they recognized quite a lot of it. He smiled quietly as he listened to the debate. He wryly reflected that the situation was the stuff of comic books - which in turn were analogies for real life events. Life imitating art imitating life. You had to laugh.

At last, he found an opportunity to speak to a moderate-sized group of debaters, and siezed on the chance. His voice was powerful and resonant, and carried easily to everyone within a few hundred feat of him, even over the general hubub.

You know, it seems to me that the debate is fairly clear cut. No matter how much we argue, the problem will continue to escalate unless people can be assured of a few things - one, that only a minority of neohumans are dangerous, two, that most neohumans are just people like them who want to lead their lives, not rampaging, murderous monsters, and three, that the neohumans are capable of policing themselves. Otherwise I'm afraid that the situation is going to escalate into something far worse - whether it be internment or execution or something else, it will be dire, both for neohumans themselves and for the nation as a whole.

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
In the back of the park, near some trees, stood a bunch of goons. Behind them was a limousine, with the window slightly open. It was tinted, so there was no telling who was inside, but he or she was smoking if the circles of smoke rising from the window were any clue.
"So, Doctor, happy now?" a booming voice from the inside said.
"Not really. I don't see why I needed the escort"
"Now, now, Doctor, we can't have anything happening to you. You're too much of an asset"
"So I've heard"
The man leaning into the tree, the one they called The Doctor, sighed. He did look like the sort of man that needed protection. He's somewhat below average height and has a thin face with prominent cheekbones, sort of reminiscent of a particularly feral rabbit. His eyes are a very light blue, and very bright. He's the kind of person people tend to avoid making eye-contact with. His hair is sleek and black and looks like he's cut it himself with some scissors. His frail build is bad enough, but the man is also leaning heavily on a cane and he has small spectacles on his hook nose. He has style, in some way. His cane is topped off with a brass eaglehead and he wears a stovepipe hat and a trenchcoat. All very nineteenth century, but it sort of suits him, in a scary way.

"So why'd you need to see this again, doc?" one of the goons asked, meanwhile rolling a sigaret.
"Doctor"
"What?"
"I told you, I will not have my name abbreviated"
He pauzed.
"I need to be here because this is where the future will be decided. There's been a boom in neohuman activity and we are no longer simple anomalies. Sure, some of them don't even have the power required to impress a toddler, but they still count as metahumans. The world has had to stop ignoring us. A pity really, as I was having a good time being ignored"
"You're a mutie, doc?"
The Doctor stared at him with those penetrating eyes of his.
"Doctor, sorry" the criminal corrected himself. The Doctor noticed some of the tabacco slip out of his hands as they shook and he grinned.
"Yes, I am a mutant. I'm not like this Hangman character though"
"You don't kill?"
"I know what I'm doing"
"Oh..."

[Dorizzit]

Joseph walks enters the same debate as Nexus. He is a somewhat gangly teenager with long, tangled black hair and green eyes. He wears jeans and a shirt depicting two fictional characters locking swords. "It's easy to say that, sir, but the problem is convincing them that that's true. Even if you can convince them rationally, emotionally they will still fear and reject Neohumans as different." He dips a quick bow. "I apologise, I should introduce myself. My name is Joseph. I'm not a Neohuman, but I am a pro equality activist."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nexus turned his head, smiling slightly at Joseph, one eyebrow raised. Nexus' eyes glinted with an inner light, and he gave a small nod. Indeed they will. They will hate and fear Neohumans as people have always hated and feared the different, particularly the different that seem dangerous. So there are two choices - show them that Neohumans can and will live up to the potential that their gifts give them, or become their worst Nightmares in order to fight back against a society that will shun, reject, and persecute them. Which would you chose?

[Dorizzit]

Joseph smiles pleasantly. "My natural inclination is for the latter, but I would certainly prefer the former. Ultimately, though, I don't think it can be either. You can't classify a group of people in one way. There will be different people, and different reactions."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Samuel Dantès was in no way remarkable and was pretty much ignored by the crowd until now. The man seemed in his mid-twenties. He was slightly tanned, with a somewhat hispanic look. He had green eyes, short black hair and a stubble beard. He wore one of his favourite outfits: black jeans, a vest, shirt and tie, a hat and sunglasses.

Samuel sat on a bench in the park. He listened to the nearby crowd all the while playing with a small rusty coin. He had left the studio early today to see what this debate was all about. He felt concerned by the situation, obviously, but he wasn't much of an activist himself. The young man turned its attention to two new speakers. After a while, he got up and walked to the group.

"Hi, my name's Sam. I have to agree with him. (speaking of Nexus) People have always been frightened by what they didn't understand. However, there's no reason to persecute the Neohumans because of the potential they hold. Humans have the ability to use guns to kill people, yet in the United States, owning a firearm is a right. Why would having powers mean having the will to dominate and destroy? Oh, by the way, I, for one, am against violent action unless it's a last resort."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nexus smiled grimly at Sam's words. They were ones that he had expected to hear. Indeed. But even in the U.S., owning a nuclear weapon, or even something like a rocket launcher, is not legal. And Neohumans are far more dangerous than something so simple as a gun which, you will note, are quite restricted in this country. It doesn't matter what a particular Neohuman will or won't do - the problem is the fear of the possible. What could one rogue Neohuman do, if they were of a mind. One never knows.

That's why Neohumans must, if they are to survive without becoming the monsters they are sometimes portrayed as, stand up and show this country, show the world that they can police their own. Otherwise someone else will do it for them.

[Kaiser Omnik]

Samuel Dantès

Sam also smiled. The man was smart.

"Right... So, what are you suggesting? Forming a team of superheroes to protect the countryside? Even then, they will inspire mistrust. The local autorities will not have Neohumans stepping above the law, even to police their own. If the vigilantes go bad, who will police them? Like that Wolf fellow...Who knows what are his motives."

Sam's tone was not provocative at all.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nexus nodded. This was a question he had given some thought. Even so, he paused a moment before speaking, gathering himself up. I am proposing something of the sort. I know it sounds like a comic book idea - but it feels like we've stumbled into one, so perhaps that's fitting. Perhaps the police won't like it at first, but what other option do they have? We've all seen how well they deal with the Hangman. They can't afford to turn down the help of Neohumans willing to give it. Perhaps some sort of accreditation program is in order. But someone has to step up to solve the problem, or it will only grow worse.

As for who watches the watchmen... that's always a problem, isn't it? Ideally, they watch each other. If this idea takes off, I might dare to dream one day of a national, even an international organization of Neohumans, ideally under the auspices of the U.N. The government needs to step up and deal with Neohumans, not simply hide their heads in the sand and ignore the problem. We need a Neohuman liason office, educational programs to help newly transformed Neohumans learn to use and control their powers - but all of this is just a pipe dream if a stand is not taken now. If Neohumas don't show that they can unite, that they can take care of problems on their own, prove that they can contribute to society in a positive way. One way or another, Neohumans will change the world. It's up to them to decide how.

[Kaiser Omnik]

Dantès

"I agree. We will have to develop programs for the Neohumans and eventually give them a special place in our institutions.

I like you, hmm...what was your name again?"

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nodding in agreement, he realized that he'd never introduced himself. But which name to use? perhaps it was better to remain safe for the moment. Nicholas. Nicholas Black.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph speaks up. "Why start small? If I was going to set up something like that, I'd go to the UN to send out for volunteers for a legally legitimate force protecting humans from rogue Neohumans. If you start with a vigilante band, then people will see you just the same as Wolf. If the United Nations could be made to accept, then that would be a big step towards global tolerance." he looks at Dantès. "Sorry to butt in like that. My name is Joseph."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Dantès

"Well, pleased to meet you Nicholas. You too Joseph.

We have great ideas here. However, I'm not sure what will come out of this debate as a whole. Let's hope people listen."

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
"Shouldn't you, eh, be joining in the debate, doctor?" the goon asked, then stuffing his homerolled sigaret in the corner of his mouth and lighting it.
"I'm here to observe, nothing more, nothing less. When a patient develops a particular condition, say a tumor or an infection, it is vital we observe and analyze before deciding wether amputation will be necessary"
"Amfutafion?" the goon asked, still clumsily fumbling with the smoke.
"It is merely a comparison, off course. I'm sure no such thing will be necessary, but that does not mean observation is not in order. We are talking about the future of a whole new species of homo sapiens here"
"So why not take the wheel and help decide? You're the smartest guy I know, doctor, but you're letting these buffoons decide? These cowards? What do they know, huh, about life? Them just be workin' stiffs, working nine to five for the man"
"Some would say that you too are a working stiff, Johnny" said The Doctor, giving the limousine behind them a nod.
Johnny was silent and took a drag from his sigaret.
"Why aren't you joining in the debate, doctor? I'm sure you could teach them a thing or two"
"I have nothing to say to them. Honestly, I would prefer there would be no debate at all. Whatever is decided here won't make any real impact, as most of the people here are either neohumans or people that have come to watch the freakshow. This whole sharade here will beg a response from the bigwigs though, and considering what a minority we neohumans are, that could never be a good one. They have to think about the elections, see? No, I rather preferred them not having to give the issue any thought at all"

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas gave another wry little smile, turning to Joseph That would be ideal, of course. But let's face it - the U.N. is a massive, bereaucratic organization. Unless someone can prove that they're a legitimate organization, and that they can truly speak for Neohumans as a whole, there is almost no chance that they will be listened to at all. Whoever takes up the mantle of protection must prove themselves first before their legitimacy is acknowledged, before their voice will be heard.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph smiles. "Maybe, but using powers to work as a vigilante would be breaking the law. The government isn't known for hiring wanted men into law enforcement. You need a legitimate backer before you start proving yourself."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Dantès

Samuel looked around a bit and then turned back its attention to Joseph and Nicholas.

"That's all really interesting. Now, who's gonna step up and go talk to the UN Secretary-General?"

[Dorizzit]

Joseph smirks self deprecatingly. "Okay, maybe not start with the UN, but maybe work as a subset of the police? You'd need someone with political clout, really."

[Silverkiss]

The debates continued, and a rapidly increasing number of people was gathering around Joseph, Samuel and Nicholas. They were the first ones that talked about actually doing anything, instead of only discussing philosophies and ideologies.

As the three men discussed, a lone man watched from the distance. You could think he was a homeless if you saw him; his only clothing was a pair of ragged jeans, and his long, untreated hair seemed to be dirty. Sitting on one of the park's benches, the man had all his attention focused on Joseph's last words. He grinned sightly, and decided to join the conversation. He leaped up from the bench, walking towards the three, shouting his words so everyone could hear him.

"What you talk about is all good and nice on the paper, but tell me: did any of you tried going to the police yet ? Did any of you tried talking with any politicians ? Did any of you tried actually doing something ? As soon as you try, you'll realise that life is not as easy as you think. This debate is useless, the humans will never truly accept neohumans, and there is nothing we can do. Don't fool yourselves." - The man paused for a moment, without nothing more to say. Then, he simply turned around and started walking away, heading for the park's closest gate.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph looks at the man's receding figure. "Yeah? Believe what you will! Sure, not everyone will accept, some will even outright hate! But it's the same with racism, and sexism, and religious intolerance: they're still there, but they can be contained. That's what I believe."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas arched a single eyebrow as the other man turned around, raising his voice slightly As Joseph said, none of us claim that we will be fully accepted. Perhaps it is not even possible But what is the alternative? Do nothing? Sit back and allow ourselves to be marked, ostracized, or worse? I, for one, refuse to accept that. Yes, I'll admit it. I'm a Neohuman, and I see no reason why I should fear to declare it. Whatever you call me, I am, at the core, just a man, and I will not be treated with less dignity, respect, or compassion because of what I have become, and neither will I look down on others for what they are not. And I will work to change the attitudes of others for the better, and see that those who abuse their powers are brought to justice. I hope that we can get official, legal support for it. But if not... what will be will be.

[Silverkiss]

The man stops in his tracks, listening to what Nicholas says. He then laughs, and answers without turning back.

"The alternative ? Do what we must do by ourselves. We must not require the human's love, or even their acceptance. If they do not accept us, then screw them. We will take care of our own problems and troubles. And if any human ever tries something funny with me or any of the people I know, I will not be happy. And neither they will be, after I'm done with them."

[Dorizzit]

Joseph laughs. Long and hard.

[Silverkiss]

The man slowly turns, facing Joseph. He eyes the young man with a hard expression.

"What is so funny, kid ?"

[Dorizzit]

Joseph stops laughing, suddenly serious. "Simple. You are. Your belief that Neohumans can never be tolerated is just as, if not more ridiculous that my belief that they can. History bears with me on this one. But by all means, continue believing what you will. Only time will tell what happens."

[Silverkiss]

"You are too young to understand. You are too naive. Continue with your happy beliefs, but be careful not to cry when everything crumbles to the ground and you're left with nothing. It is easy to say nonsense when you have everything you want and never faced reality."

[Dorizzit]

Joseph crosses his arms and snorts. "Say what you will. Maybe I am wrong. Maybe there aren't enough people willing to accept neohumans to make a change. Maybe there isn't any hope. But I doubt it. And I deny you and your beliefs. It's true; I'm fairly young, I haven't been exposed to the darkness in the world except from the safe end of a TV. I'm not streetwise. So? Maybe all we need for a change is a few less cynics. Reality is that not everything is bad."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Samuel looked at the scene, impassive. Then he spoke:

"I understand your concern, but I don't think it will turn into a war or anything of that magnitude. Joseph here is right. Humanity has seen worst.

Anyway...I'm not really into politics. But I know myself well. I may be have the powers of a Neohuman. They may even define me according to some people. But I know where my heart is. I know that I'll be there for Normals and Neohumans alike who seek peace."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas nodded in agreement And I as well. I will not give into nihilism or defeatism. I still see hope for a better future, for cooperation, for understanding. And so long as we have that hope, there's a chance. I will make it happen

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
The Doctor was gazing around at the crowd through his tiny spectacles.
"What are those men doing, Johnny?"
"Which men?"
"You know which men I mean. The ones working for him"
The Doctor gave the car another nod.
"Oh. They're recruiting"
"Hmmmm?" The Doctor said.
"Yeah. You know, this place is a hotspot for neohumans right now. The boss likes to have some heavy hitters on his team. That's why he hired you"
The Doctor calmly shook his head.
"No, no, Johnny, there's two things you need to learn. The first is that I am by no means a heavy hitter"
"Look, doc, the things that I've seen you do..."
"The second," The Doctor continued, ignoring the interruption, "is that your boss is by no means my boss. He hasn't hired me. I work for nobody but myself"
"I dunno, doc, you seem to do pretty much whateverhe tells you to do"
"Only because I choose to do so, Johnny. I'm nobody's lapdog. Oh, and a third thing you need to learn is that my name is not to be abbreviated!" The Doctor shouted.
"Okay, okay, sheesh" Johnny said, visible jumping back at The Doctor's anger. They were silent again, and The Doctor focused his gaze at a seemingly homeless man, getting into an arguement with several neohumans.

[Silverkiss]

"Humpf. Do as you wish."

The man turns his back on you once again, and hurries to the park's gates, leaving the place.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph breathes out in relief. "Well that was odd. I wonder what his beef is."

[WhiteKnight777]

[B]Nexus[/B

Nicholas shrugged "He's entitled to his opinion. But whatever we decide to do, the first step is to organize. Anyone who wishes to join me is welcome - but we must band together, show a unified front, and convince the authorities that we can speak with one voice."

[Dorizzit]

Joseph bows elegantly. "I'll stand by you."

[Kaiser Omnik]

"That poor man. He has lost faith... Anyway, I'll gladly contribute to your efforts, Nicholas."

[Kaiser Omnik]

((OOC: Don't forget about this game guys :smallwink:))

[Dorizzit]

((I'm not really sure what to do.))

[Silverkiss]

Could you guys please post OOC talk in the OOC thread ? I already said in that thread that I am waiting for players' actions... :/

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas nodded slowly, looking around at those who had agreed to join him.

Very well. If you wish, we can return to My home to continue discussion there. I'm not sure how productive further debate here will be.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph nods. "I'd be happy doing that. A lot of this is just posing, if we want to get anything actually done, better in a private setting."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

With a smile, Nicholas beckoned for those who wished to follow him, heading to where his car was parked - a spacious black four door. Curiously, it didn't actually bear a brand label, nor the logo of any known car company.

I'll give a ride to anyone who needs one, everyone else can follow as they like. Keep close, I live a bit out in the boondocks - which frankly is just as well for our purposes. Less likely to get angry mobs on the doorstep if they have to hoof it.

He gave a wry little smile and stepped down into the car. Any one who joined him would find the interior of the car to be quite clean, with a black leather interior and tasteful dark wood inserts to contrast. The displays behind the steering column glowed with a cool blue light, like sunlight seen through clear seawater, and Nicholas put the car into gear with quick, practiced motions. The machine was almost eerily quiet, and handled with a liquid grace. Once they passed out of the city traffic, Nicholas drove passed the outskirts of town, up into thickly wooded hills. After perhaps a half hour of driving, they arrived at a modest home built of gray stone, set back on a rather bumpy dirt rode, though those riding in Nicholas' car would note that the low-slung luxury vehicle handled the potholes much better than one might expect.

Home sweet home. Once everyone's here, I'll give you the tour. He said. His face was amused, and he turned away, a curious expression of anticipation in his eyes.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph nods his thanks. He somewhat awkwardly gets into the back seat of the car, looking around with curiosity. He absorbs every detail he can see, committing it to memory before settling down in his seat. He folds his hands in his lap, and closes his eyes during the trip.

[Kaiser Omnik]

Dantès also got in Nicholas' car. He took off his hat once inside. He smiled to the other passengers but remained silent the whole trip.

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
"Seems like someone's finally made some decisions..."
The Doctor turned to the limousine.
"Could I get a ride? I need to follow that car. We may just have witnessed the birth of something important. Or maybe not, but it's unlikely much else will happen here. Either way, keep some of your men around to eavesdrop on the neos, the regular people don't really interest me right now"
The limousine door swung open, and The Doctor stepped into the darkness within. The car took off, following that of Nexus to his estate. It was a limousine, so it was tailing the car quite noticably. Theis, however, did not seem to worry The Doctor.

[Silverkiss]

Besides the men on Nicholas' car and the limousine, no one followed you to the house. Maybe they were afraid, or didn't think the discussion would lead anywhere. As Nicholas waited on his own doorstep, he saw the limousine aproaching; there was no other car to be seen on the road.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph raises his eyebrows. "Now there's a surprise. We've been followed by a limo?" Joseph waits for the limo to stop and waits a few seconds to ensure that no one is making a move to get out before going over and rapping on the window.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas arched an eyebrow, and shifted slightly - and slowly slid one hand under his jacket as he watched for the reaction from the limo driver.

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
The limodriver moved his hand to the handle for opening the window.
"Don't"
The limodriver turned and looked at the men on the back seat, specifically his boss. The mobster shook his head and the driver gave him a comprehensive nod.
"Just park the car in an alley nearby. Make sure they're not following"

The car drove off.

[Dorizzit]

"Woah!" Joseph yells in surprise as the car lurches forward. He jumps back, tripping and landing on his back. Standing back up, Joseph stretches his back and walks over to Sam and Nicholas. "That may be bad. Whoever that was clearly didn't want us knowing their identity. We may have attracted some unwanted attention." He shakes his head. "No point worrying about it now. Can we go inside?"

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
The car stopped. One of the windows in the back opened to a slit and a circle of smoke was blown out of it.
"So, doctor, what is the plan?"
"I can honestly say I have none, sir"
The Doctor bowed his head slightly. Respect was important when talking to these people.
"So why did we drive all the way out here, doc, for the scenery?"
The Doctor opened his mouth, raising a finger, but he reconsidered.
"In a way, yes. Three neohumans working together, trying to make the world a better place, it's an odd sight. Historical, almost"
"There's just three of them, doctor, a well-planned ambush and some men with heavy weapons and they're still no more than three pairs of smoking boots"
The Doctor nodded, but he didn't seem convinced.
"Sure, sure, but they're not the main issue here, they're merely the onset, the spark that lights the fuse, if I may"
"Are they now?"
The large black man seemed skeptical. He lurked from his cigar again, blowing the smoke out of the window.
"If they're the spark, then where's the barrel of gunpowder, doctor?"
"Oh, it's all just theories now. I don't really know what we're doing here, actually. It just seemed more useful than sticking around at that meet-up in the park"
The large man laughed loudly, and his laugh soon turned into a cough. They waited politely for a few minutes for it to subside.
"There's more to it. I know you, doc. Your mind's like a hive of bees, busy all the time, going in all directions at once"
The Doctor nodded and stroked his chin.
"Well, yes, I did have a few ideas. For one thing this might set a nasty precedent. The government might not like the neos uniting, undermining their authority. If three can join up, why not more? Hell, if two neos with enough power join up, there's no telling what they might do. It's not just the government either. There's other people. People like-"
The Doctor pauzed and his gaze drifted upwards, for the first time daring to set eyes on the man next to him. He was huge. He seemed like a dark entity, filling up the car, but in reality The Doctor knew he'd just had one crab patty too much. His shortage of breath due to his weight and his incessant smoking should take something away from how impressive the man was, but even though he had to be driven everywhere he still had a sort of malice, danger about him. He was not the kidn of man you wanted to cross. You could see that, even though he could barely move. Maybe it was the constant buzzing of his henchmen about him, or the lines in his face that suggested ages of experience. Perhaps it was just the way he acted, as if he were untouchable.
"People like me"
The Doctor cramped up a bit and quickly turned his gaze outside the window. The alley was pretty much abandoned, which was exactly what they'd wanted, off course.
"There are other people," The Doctor continued, "Who wouldn't like to see their power threatened"
The black man inhaled deeply.
"You think they're a threat?"
"Them?"
The Doctor laughed nervously.
"No, good heavens no, it's just three of them. You have more than that in your employ even"
"More after today"
The black man smiled, showing several golden teeth.
The Doctor straightened up, his hands adjusting his stovepipe hat.
"It's what they represent that is dangerous to you. union of neos. They're not simply a grunt squad anymore, or loose thugs, madmen like the Hangman. They're an organisation. If a syndicate rises, and believe me, it will after this, no-one will be able to stop it. Other neos, maybe. It will be neos versus neos and humans will matter none. It's what you all fear, deep in your hearts"
The Doctor's fingers swerved, his uncut, torn fingernails pointing at the black man's heart. The mobster pulled himself back, into the door, momentarily scared, but he soon refound his calm. The Doctor withdrew his hand and wiped the spit in the corners of his mouth.
"I, personally, don't want to see that happen. I'm perfectly fine with the equilibrium, keeping the world as it is. You in your place, the president in his, and me in mine. I'm just warning you. there are those who want change"
"Get out"
It hadn't sounded angry. It definitely hadn't sounded scared. It had simply been a command.
"Yes, yes, I believe this is my stop"
The Doctor got out and as he readjusted his hat the limo drove off.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Meanwhile, even as the doctor was having his enigmatic conversation, Nicholas drove the car into the garage next to the cabin. With everyone inside, the door closed down - and a beam of brilliant green light washed over it, starting at the front of the car an advancing to the rear

Nothing to worry about, folks - just checking to make sure we haven't been tagged... and it looks like we're all clear. Tapping a small bead attached to his lapel, he spoke into it. Sarah- we're green. Bring us down. And activate house lights in a few seconds, just to be sure.

The whole floor shuddered suddenly, and slowly began to sink - the entirety of the garage, it seemed, was an elevator. Their progress was smooth and swift, and Nicholas was silent. When it stopped, he emerged from the car - they were in a small room, containing only a single, heavy steel sliding door. Nexus put his palm over a lock next to it, and winced a little as a tiny needle stabbed his index finger. A green light over the door blinked, and he led the way into the next corridor, turning his head, he gave the others a small smile.

As you'll notice, there's more to my humble abode than meets the eye. Lights please, Sarah.

Far over head, lights sprang to life, revealing the next chamber - a square chamber, larger than the last, with one entire wall taken up with a flickering bank of computer screens that looked like something straight out of a science fiction novel. A low electronic voice, female by the pitch and tone, came out of the speakers.

"Welcome back, sir. I see your mission was something of a success."

Nicholas nodded and took a seat at the conference table that sat in the middle of the room, surrounded by richly upholstered chairs, sighing with pleasure as he sank in.

So... have a seat, gentlemen.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph's eyebrows raise in surprise when Nicholas sweeps his car for bugs. His eyes grow wide when Nicholas talks into his lapel. And they grow even bigger when the entire garage begins to sink. Joseph emits a wordless yelp of surprise and does a quick double take. He quickly puts his back to a wall. When they reach the bottom, Joseph's eyes widen, and he looks around the room with awe and amazement. He enters the room hesitantly, sweeping it with his eyes. "What...what is this place?" He sits down in a chair, stiffly straight and clearly uncomfortable.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Nicholas smiled slowly. Forgive the air of mystery. I've only got one chance to do this, and I'm afraid I have something of a taste for the dramatic. It all has to do with my power... We should probably share ours, but since mine's already come up, I'll go first.

Have you ever heard of the theory that there's an infinite number of potential worlds? That every fantasy ever dreamed, every might-have-been ever concieved is, in some paralell dimension, fact? The science behind the theory is somewhat flimsy, but irregardless it might be truth - or perhaps it's only my mind that makes it so. Still, whatever the truth is, it has bearing on my power. What I do is bring fiction to life. From any universe concieved in the mind of another, I can draw things forth. Items, buildings, vehicles - even living creatures, though that's more difficult and more risky, since they're not under control and can choose whether or not to appear.

Obviously there are limits - some things are simply impossible - otherwise, obviously, I'd already be omnipotent. Still, it can obviously do a great deal. Most of what you see here - including SARAH, obviously - is culled from science fiction. It's more generally applicable in the everyday world. SARAH was among the first thing I pulled forth - she's an AI from a particularly advanced science fiction story. She helps me analyze and coordinate some of the more esoteric things I bring through, and runs my little sanctuary.

So... now you know. Questions?

[Dorizzit]

Joseph sits back a bit more. He seems a bit more comfortable now. "Interesting...what kinds of limits do you have? Size? Density? Violation of our laws of physics?"

[Kaiser Omnik]

Samuel kept a calm demeanor all this time. Once inside the conference room, he took off his gasses and took a closer look at the computers, without ever touching, of course. He then walked slowly to the table and sat next to Joseph.

"This power is amazing. The possibilities...Could you make a time machine?"

Dantès pulled a notepad and a pencil from one of his pockets and put the two down in front of him.

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Limits... that's a good question. Frankly, they often seem rather arbitrary. And I wonder if they aren't psychosomatic in origin... they seem to vary. Anything... well, too powerful, really. Other than that, it's open season - magic, technology, it all works... but there are some things I simply can't bring forth. No making myself into a god, for example.

As for a time machine... I've never tried, and I don't intend to. I've read too many science fiction stories to open that can of worms.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph nods. "That's probably wise, given the Butterfly Effect."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Dantès smiled.

"Quite wise, yes."

As he talked, his pencil took a life of his own and started taking notes...

[Dorizzit]

After a few moments of silence, Joseph says, "Dantès, do you want to go next?"

[Kaiser Omnik]

"Something tells me you haven't been paying much attention."

Samuel pointed to the pencil which moved on its own.

"It looks like telekinesis, but it's more than that. In fact, I can temporally alter matter at the molecular level. By doing that, I am able to bring inanimate objects to life, in a matter of speaking. I call this power "animation". The targeted object follows a simple command of my choosing. It isn't always the most useful power."

The pencil fell on the table, inert. Samuel picked up the sheet of paper and showed his fellow neohumans what was written on it : complete gibberish.

"I am also capable of establishing a mental link with an object, thus accessing the "sensory memory". This way I can learn about its previous owners and locations. To tell you the truth, I don't really have power over this ability. It's more passive in nature."

Dantès stepped up and paced around the table. He finally stopped next to Joseph. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, looking fully concentrated.

"Joseph, I'd ask you to punch me. I want to showcase my last power. Don't worry, you don't risk anything."

[Dorizzit]

Joseph shrugs, and then stands up, walks over, and punches him.

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
The Doctor stood outside, relatively unsure what to do. Finally he took a cellphone out of his trenchcoat and dialed.
"Hello? This is the doctor speaking. Yes, that's right"
He pauzed, tapped his foot and wrinkled his brow.
"Transportation. I need a car and two motorcycles, manned. The car needs tinted windows"
He nodded, even though the person on the other side couldn't see him.
"Yes. One free operation. Sure, if that's what you'd like. Five years, but you have to provide the materials. Alright, I'll be expecting your men"
He hung up and smiled, then he took place where he'd agreed to meet the men. The place happened to have a nice view of Nexus' house, even though it was surrounded by trees, and hard to see from the house.

[Kaiser Omnik]

Joseph punched him...and his arm went right through the man's body, like it wasn't even there. In fact, Joseph didn't felt anything. Samuel smiled and took a few steps back.

"The ability to phase through matter, to become intangibile. Isn't that fun?"

[Dorizzit]

Joseph looks at his arm and moves it around a bit, clearly somewhat displeased with its performance. He takes a seat again, leaning back. "Well, I guess it's my turn now. Mine seem somewhat simplistic in comparison. I can...well, let me demonstrate." He stands up. "Samuel? You're turn. Face me, with your back to the wall." (I'll assume that Samuel complies for the sake of speeding this along.) Once Samuel is in position, Joseph moves over and stands behind him. Then he seems to slide into the ground. Nicholas feels a small tap on his shoulder, as Joseph slides back up. "Shadow jumping is the first of my abilities. I can move into a shadow and come out a different one. I can even take people with my. Next..." he blinks, and his eyes open a glowing red. "I can see in Infrared," Blink, eyes are a lusterless white, "Echolocation," Blink, eyes are normal again, "Or regular human spectrum. I also get somewhat stronger, faster, and more agile, depending on how dark it is." He smiles somewhat unpleasantly. "Finally, I have Umbrakinesis." Joseph raises a hand, and shadows around the room stream to it. He straightens it, and the collected shadows move forward, lifting the table off the ground. Joseph drops it, sweat dripping from his forehead, and the shadows disperse. "Sorry, I kind of overstretched myself. It's hard to lift anything I couldn't physically. Anyway, that's about it." He shrugs. "So what now?"

[Kaiser Omnik]

"So do we choose code names or what?"

It was difficult to say if Samuel was joking or not.

[Dorizzit]

Joseph shrugs. "That's probably wise, if we want to conceal our identities before we get official backing. But there's another question: how do we want to get the positive attention of the authorities? I can only think of one thing that would quickly establish us and garner positive thought. Does anyone else have an idea?"

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

As the other two talked, Nicholas was busy fiddling with a computer display, his face displaying a certain amount of irritation. Looks like we're not alone, folks. Someone's showing up on the sensors. At first I thought it was just someone out for a day in the country, but they've been idling there a while... bringing them up on screen...

A section of monitor flickered, showing a clear image of the limo they'd seen earlier. Nexus smiled quietly. About what I'd expected. SARAH, lock down the surface elevators, close the concealed blast doors, and ready the perimeter defenses. Also, open up vaults Gamma and Delta. I'd like a little hardware in case we have trouble.

A massive metal door at the opposite end of the room from where they'd entered slid open, revealing another elevator I'd planned on waiting on showing you this for a bit later, but... Want to see the Vaults?

[Dorizzit]

Joseph raises his eyebrows. "Yes, that sounds quite interesting."

[WhiteKnight777]

Nexus

Beckoning the other two, Nicholas stepped into the elevator. Pressing a complicated series of keys on a pad that displayed not letters but runes, the elevator began to move downwards rapidly. As they moved, Nexus began to explain The Vaults are where I keep all the things I've bothered to permanently conjure up over time. It takes a good deal of time and effort to make something stick around in our reality, so anything I want to have on a permanent basis has to be brought in beforehand. Thus, the vaults. I've organised them by power level and equipment type, in that order. First stop is Gamma. that's where I store class-one armors.

The elevator opened, and Nicholas stepped out, going through another series of identification, once more giving a blood sample, voice sample, retina scan and palm print. The vault door was a massive construct, and covered in a shimmering field of sapphire energy.

The monitoring systems in each vault are independent of all outside systems and have their own power sources. The lower vaults are, of course, more heavily shielded. The door opened, revealing a fairly large room. Several suits of medieval armor stood next to racks that held ultramodern-looking sets of mesh weave. Nexus moved over to a rack that held several belts. After a moment, he selected one and put it on If there's anything you want to know about, just ask. And if you've got something in mind in particular, let me know. I might have something around to fit your needs. I reccomend at least grabbing one of these belts - hand things. Generate a kinetic dampener field. Subtle, invisible, and it reduces a high calibre bullet to about the level of a particularly hard punch. It won't stop a tank shell, but it means some punk with a .22 won't be taking you down anytime soon. I'm wearing an armorweave undersuit to go along with it. If you want one, I've got a couple spare. He pointed to a trio of one-piece black skintight items that resembled a diver's suit.

[MrEdwardNigma]

The Doctor
The doctor seemed relieved as the car and the bikes finally arrived. He stepped out of cover of the bushes he'd been standing in and gave them a wave. They stopped in the middle of the road and one of the bikers walked up to him and took his helmet off. He was by no means fat but he certainly was large. Bits of the left side of his face had were sort of scrambled up, his left ear was sort of a mess and he was missing a bit of his hair. The rest of it was combed back and covered in gel. He shook the doctor's hand and then spit on the floor.
"Where do you need us?"
"Nowhere, for now. We just need to be patient for a while. I would like you to hide the vehicles though. I'm not too fond of exposure"
The man gave him a nod and waved at the others to go down the road. The vehicles quickly manoeuvred into cover.
"Think we're gonna be waiting long?" the man asked, lighting a smoke.
"I hope not..." the doctor answered.
The second biker came out of the bushes, also taking off his helmet. He was asian, and while small still quite buff. He took the bike that was still on the road by hand and rode it into the bushes.
"What is this about?"
"It's complicated. Neos are involved. I'd rather stay off the radar, if that's at all possible"
"Neos?"
The man almost choked on his cigarette.
"Yeah, staying off the radar sounds good. I don't like freaks"
The doctor arched an eyebrow.
"No personal offence"

[Dorizzit]

Joseph picks up one of the belts and puts it on. "Thanks."