Yeah, we kind of do need something solid other than a "slice of life" styled RP. Those things get stale really fast which is why I never bother to join them.

A powerful villain appearing is something I thought of too, but this can get pretty old too if its just your typical "time to save the day scenario". Something I thought of to tie in nicely with my idea for the appearance of Red Rings (and other recruiting Corps.) was that there was something big about to go down. Maybe we can start by increasing criminal activity around the school and home of the students, and then gradually build things up to where there are even rogue supers attempting to assassinate them. What does all this lead up to? Don't know yet, but probably something like that asshole Braniac wanting to take over the world again, or something of that level.