[OOC] Verthaven: Days of Rain ☔ [COMPLETED]

[Punished GN]

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Verthaven:
Days of Rain

Previous Chapter: A Bloody Paradise

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Recap of A Bloody Paradise

It all began in this sunny city, it just started with a simple festival to hail in the start of the summer and good days. And all that changed once the Fiends, a violent gang of drugged up maniacs, attacked the fair. They violently attacked civilians, and began a storm of blood and death. They were, however, combated by the Agents of NEST, an organization dedicated to maintaining order within the Metahuman world, civilians and other superpowered individuals, and the VPD. A violent battle occurred, which ended once the leader of the Fiends, Khan, joined the battle and paved way for the Fiends to escape. Which left many calling for justice.

The next day, the National Guard pushed in on the city, and NEST planned to eliminate the Metahuman leaders of the group known as the Lieutenants. While raid after raid was launched at the gang, they were whittled down operation after operation. That night, a mercenary group known as the Dreadnaughts were hired by NEST High-command to lend a hand. NEST, assisted by the Dreadnaughts managed to successfully carry out an assassination against one of the Fiend lieutenants. On the civilian spectrum, a party was thrown for the teenagers of the city to take their minds off things. Fun was had... but, a group belonging to the Hands of Science, an organization dedicated to exploiting Metahumans to create a new age of science, preyed upon them at the party. Kidnapping several people from the party for the purpose of experimentation. And everyone was none the wiser.

A day afterwards, a raid was launched against the Fiends, which ended with another lieutenant being captured. After interrogating the lieutenant, a few secrets about what motivated the Fiends were revealed - they were apparently being rewarded with serums that give people powers. While the Hands of Science got their hands on their crown jewel, and kidnapped many teenagers for their nefarious experiments. A deal gone wrong with the Fiends, and eventually it was revealed that the power granting serums were fake. This is what made the Fiends especially desperate. They gathered what little resources they had left, and prepared for a last ditch effort to spring their captured alley from the NEST Headquarters.

That night, Khan got in contact with a contact within NEST, who let the Fiends in through a secret entrance. Another bloodbath began as NEST and Fiends did battle with each other. High-ranking NEST Agents, and Dreadnaughts did all they could to quell the situation. However, that same contact arranged for the death of Khan, and used an ally in the Hands of Science to make sure that Khan doesn't leave. That ally arranged for a local vigilante to kill Khan for her. The Fiend Lieutenants went down one by one, killed, or captured. Soon, Khan was killed by this mysterious vigilante.

Meanwhile, the kids kidnapped by the Hands of Science sprung out of their cages, and with a drugged alley, they wandered the base. Until they came in contact with a scientist, and managed to steal a phone from him. They managed to call for help, before they were confronted with the Hands of Science finest experiments and did battle. They were pushed to their limits when help arrived in form of a mother coming to retrieve her child. She did battle with these monsters to buy time for the kidnapped to get away, and defeated both of them. Before moving onto leaving this hellish lab. However, on her way in, she found some incriminating files, planted by a traitor within the Hands of Science.

This evidence told her that the Director of NEST was in on the Fiend's attack on the festival, and was a member of the Hands of Science - a partnership that got NEST new and experimental weaponry to combat Metahumans. The Hands of Science wanted the Fiends disposed of, because they had outlived their usefulness, and the Director suggested a plan to cause a massive scene, and destroy the Fiends in order to make NEST look good. Once this evidence was submitted to a higher level, the Director was arrested, and the Hands of Science (And the Changeling Unit) were revealed to the world.

Two weeks later... and the fight was far from over.

I heavily recommend that you guys read this post because it sets up a lot of plots for Days of Rain.

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This story is set in the middle of the summer, and in a very peculiar universe. The same technological advancements and events have taken place. However, a strange condition has occurred that has given people God-like powers that defy the laws of science itself. Granted by a mysterious green energy that resides inside of them. These people have been around for two centuries, until they came out of the shadows nearly fifty years ago. Since then, they've became a growing part of society. Strictly regulated by the NEST organization, most of these enhanced humans are no different from the average human. They wear no capes, no cowls, they are average citizens that simply want to live their lives. They go to school, they get jobs, they have fun. And they are everywhere.

This story in particular is set in a sunny Californian city called Verthaven... The Sunny city of dreams and heroes. They couldn't be anymore wrong. Called a mixture of New York, Miami, San Francisco, and Venice, this watery city is paradise to some people, the perfect summer vacation spot. They rarely note the rampant crime and sinister organizations working in the background. Now is the time where they put their plans in motion, and like dominoes, the city will be brought to its knees. This story centers around the trials and tribulations of the Metahumans of Verthaven. Their choices and involvement in what will change the city.

You can be one of these characters with superpowers. Of any background, and ability. Remember, power corrupts, but only if you let it. It is entirely up to you what you'll use your supernatural power for. Robbing banks, gaining strength, or helping the world for the better.

Choose your battles carefully, and your allies with even more care. Since all actions have consequences... Can you be sure who will follow you?

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|| Overview ||

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Honorary Co-GMs: ~TBD~
Genre: Modern Fantasy, Urban, Superhuman, Low-Scifi, Character Driven, Interaction heavy
Recruitment Status: Closed
Currently looking for: More NEST Agents, Teenagers, and Elemental-type users.
Players: 3

Hello, hello, hello, I am Mr Allen J, and welcome to my Roleplay, Verthaven. The continuation of the "Black Fall verse" I've established. The basic jist of things is that the universe has Superhumans, and instead of capes and heroes, most of them just seek to live their lives. The RP is set in a sunny city on the California coast known as Verthaven. Known for its beaches, and Superhumans. The RP will revolve around a diverse cast of these Metahumans as they go about the city. Now, this RP will be very sandbox-y, people will be able to make their own choices. With a focus on character development and interaction. I hope you come here to make an interesting story, because I have. I'll be putting all that I got into this RP.

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|| Plots ||

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5.1 The End of an Old Era.

• The literal hell is over, and all of Verthaven's enemies have finally been defeated. In the end, there were few survivors, and Verthaven has been condemned. However, this isn't the end of the story. Another is beginning in the ashes of this city. Where will this new tale take them?

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|| Plot Template ||

[quote][b][Plot Name Here][/b]
[list][*][i]Description of plot here.[/i][/list]
[.hr][/quote]

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|| Previous Plots ||

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2.1 Aftershocks:

• In the aftermath of the revelation that NEST had something to do with the Fiend's attack on the Festival, and the Hands of Science, and the Changeling Unit, being exposed to the world, distrust and social unrest was rising. Very few trusted NEST anymore, and their job was much harder. They were being protested, among other things, by Metahumans and sympathizers who were terrified of the Hands of the Science, and the Changeling, and demanded protection. Along with bizarre attacks popping up all over the city seemingly done by monsters. Worst of all, the Verthaven branch of NEST is shorthanded after the attack on the Headquarters left a lot of their Agents injured, or dead. So, NEST High-Command allocated many Agents from other branches of NEST to take their place, and bring order to the city. In an attempt to regain face, NEST has decided to throw a charity ball to raise money to replace all the houses that were destroyed during their raids on the Fiends. All while a new monster is born...

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2.2 Operation: Cradle:

• After a NEST Agent got their infant kidnapped by the Changeling Unit. One of their members were exposed to NEST, removed from the shadows, he told the NEST Agents where to find the rest of the Changeling Unit. They quickly formulated a plan, and then launched a nighttime offensive against the unit hiding out in the Ghost Town District. However, stronger powers want the Changeling Unit active.

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2.3 The Party:

• Verthaven youth have gathered together to throw a party on the Fire Shores. A group of friends had assembled with the intentions of crashing it, ruining it for everyone. However, REAPER has similar plans....

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3.1 Rain Approaching:

• The erratic rain patterns continue to devastate the city. The city is just beginning to take notice of it. Strange attacks are becoming more frequent as the city becomes even more frightened. Who (Or what) are behind these attacks?

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3.2 A Bitter Obligation to Science:

• NEST has finally located a major Hands of Science base by taking advantage of a major slip up. The newly formed Task Force RAVEN (An elite task force to battle The Hands of Science, and the Changeling Unit) plan on raiding the lab, and bringing down the Hands of Science once and for all. All while the Hands gather together to determine the best course of action in handling their recent outing. But will anyone's schemes go as planned...?

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4.1 Storm of Agony

• Done with hiding in the shadows, a new threat that was lying in wait has revealed itself to Verthaven - claiming responsibility for the rain. Calling herself the Devil of Verthaven, she unleashed her horde of monsters upon Verthaven, intending to wipe out the city - starting with NEST and the Hands of Science. With an artificial disaster taking place, an untold amount of destruction has already taken place. With little hope that it'll get better, can Verthaven survive this trial?

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4.2 Escaping Paradise

• After the Devil launched her grand offensive, thousands of lives were lost in the first hour - either to her beasts, or the dangerous weather conditions. NEST is barely holding their own against the monstrous offensive. However, the first objective of the organization was to establish a safe zone where people could go. Their next objective is to now get as many people out of the city as they can. However, with the Changeling Unit, Devil, and even NEST High Command, plotting against them, can they succeed against the overwhelming odds presented before them?

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4.3 The Siege

• With the evacuation ending in failure - a massive shield being erected over Verthaven to prevent the Devil from escaping - it seems that NEST and the citizens of Verthaven have their backs against the wall. They have to choice but to kill the Devil, or else face annihilation. They have gathered a group of civilians to assist them in their endeavors. Hoping to launch an operation that'll lead them right to the Devil's hiding spot. However, the Devil isn't the only thing they have to worry about. The Changeling Unit - using a mole they just planted - are aiming to spring their captured members. And they aren't leaving without a trail of bodies behind them.

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4.4 Standing on the Proverbial Edge

• While the operation to defeat the Changeling Unit was a failure, the other squad successfully located the Devil of Verthaven, and has poisoned her; weakening all of her forces. They are now on a mission to kill her once and for all. However, with this many threats looming in the background... it is unlikely all will go as planned. Nor will everyone survive.

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4.5 Desperation: Pale Horse

• The operation to kill The Devil of Verthaven was a failure. The Devil of Verthaven has reached a whole new level of power fitting to her title of "The World Ending Power." The Devil's new monstrous form cast a shadow on Verthaven and the survivors which makes them wonder who can kill this Demon. With the several incidents before hand thinning out the amount of manpower, it quickly became clear that NEST lacked the manpower to take on the Devil... Which means they'll have to reach out to old foes.

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4.6 Desperation: Crimson Rain

• Two of their members killed out of spite, betrayed by the Changeling Unit, their Headquarters in flames, the shield damaged, the Devil weakened and taken by the Hands... NEST has finally had enough of their longtime nemesis the Changeling Unit, and it comes down to one final battle against evil personified. Will each of them make it out alive?

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A Bloody Paradise

1.1 Terror of the Fiends:

• Enemy number one of Verthaven has quickly become the Fiends, drug dealing maniacs and fools, after they turned a normal summer festival into a complete bloodbath, lead by their mysterious leader, Khan. Causing a battle to take place between the Fiends, NEST, and any civilians willing to take arms against them. After one of the worst terrorist attacks of all time, the Fiends left the entire downtown district coated in blood, and calling for vengeance. After the incident, NEST, the VPD, and the National Guard has launched an all out offense against the Fiends. Launching swift, and deadly blows against the criminals. NEST has formed a meeting for it's top members to discuss how to handle the Fiends, what they have access to, and their hierarchy - and how to bring it all down. However, after the festival, new light has been shed on the attack. A lab owned by the Intelligent System Designs organization has been found desolate. Equipment stolen, computers wiped, and every scientist there at the time has gone missing. Which raises starling questions. Are the Fiends behind it, or are they just the puppets?

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1.2 The Pursuit of Science:

• In the wake of the Fiend's seeming all out offensive against the city, a new threat has creeped into the city. Intending on using the Fiends as a distraction as they commit their depravities in the name of science. This new threat, approved by the Hands of Science themselves, intend on launching attacks against Verthaven's Metahumans. One by one, the Metahumans begin to go missing one night, and those that haven't been captured are being stalked, hunted. Only they can get to the bottom of this....

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|| Rules & Notes ||

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1.In-Character Rules & Notes

[1.01] The usual rules. No godmodding, metagaming, powerplaying, autohitting, etc.

[1.02] Swearing, alcohol, drugs, and sex are fully permitted in the RP long as you do not do it excessively.

[1.03] There will character deaths in this RP. By submitting a sheet, you acknowledge that your character will have to deal with the consequences of their actions. If your character does something dangerous, then they may get injured or die. Don't Godmod your way out of it. I won't purposely go out and kill characters (That I like), but I may purposely injure them for the sake of the story.

[1.04] You are required to post once a week or you will placed as inactive. But, please say if you're leaving the RP, especially if you're in the middle of any interactions/important subplots. Any inactive characters will be forgotten about, or killed off if they were significant enough to the story. However, everyone is free to do as they please with any inactive characters.

[1.05] I don't care too much about post length. I rather have a short meaningful post over one full of filler. That said, all I want is one paragraph. Just one. Be prepared for some long posts every now and then. However, I expect average writing at least. I also recommend that, once we get into the mix of things, you do plenty of collaboration posts.

2. Out-of-Character Rules & Notes

[2.01] Respect everyone else at all times, please. Solve conflict with civility. Last thing I want is for things to become toxic. The golden rule is: Don't be a dick.

[2.02] Me and my GMs have the final say. We aren't tyrants, but if things get out of hand, we'll have to settle things ourselves.

[2.03] I'd rather that we talk on the OOC as much as possible - even if it's irrelevant chatter. I makes the RP seem more lively, and keeps everyone attached to it. If you must, my information is in my sig.

[2.04] I tend to very critical when judging sheets - please don't take it as a personal attack.

[2.05] Feel free to ask about anything, anything. I'll happily answer them.

3. Character Creation Rules & Notes

[3.01] This is an advanced RP, I expect a moderate amount of detail when writing your sheet. The one thing I tend to make people go back and edit is a lack of detail. I should say that your sheets don't have to be as detailed as mine. On the same note, try to make your characters interesting.

[3.02] You have a great deal of freedom when creating a character. You can make someone of any gender, sexuality, background, etc. Long as it's written respectfully. I will not accept characters with mental illnesses unless they are written correctly.

[3.03] I'm gonna say it now; I'm not a fan of sociopaths/psychopaths, dark and tragic backstories (Without proper mental repercussions), one-note "badasses", perfect characters, and any of the sort. So keep that in mind when planning your character.

[3.04] "Magic" does not exist in the setting. This RP will be mainly scifi with slight paranormal themes here and there.

[3.05] The following powers are banned; "instant death" powers, mind/character control, time powers, anything with "omni-" attached to it, reality warping, gravity manipulation, life-force absorption, complete indestructibility/absolute defense, and probability manipulation. I also will not accept characters that have powers that can only be used in a fight. If you want to know why these powers are banned, I'll tell you.

[3.06] I encourage a written description for the character's appearance section. If you must, you can provide a picture. It must be a real photo, or a realistically drawn one.

[3.07] You can make a non-Metahuman if you want.

[3.08] Please don't post a "wip" sheet. Post the complete version or don't post it at all.

[3.09] You submit your own NPCs, long as they are important enough to the story (Or your character) to warrant one.

[Punished GN]

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|| The Setting ||

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| Metahuman Information |

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Mutants, Freaks, Overhumans, Gods themselves... Commonly called Meta-humans are normal humans that were afflicted with a strange condition that has given them powers that defied the laws of nature and physics. Men with super strength, women who can teleport, children who can control nature itself. These powers are extremely varied. These abilities stem from a strange energy that resides deep within them. A green flowing energy that is known as the Meta-human energy. A invisible energy that is extremely hard to detect through normal means. This energy inhabits a Meta-human's entire body, from their skin, to their bones, to their blood. The energy isn't detrimental to them, or the environment, not even in the slightest, it can even be called beneficial. What is interesting is that scientists have observed that energy is the same, everyone has a slightly different form of the energy. Which is believed to be related to how no Meta-human has the same exact power. When a Meta-human uses their power on the outside world, a small amount of the meta-human energy gets projected and focused in that area. Such as a Water-Elemental controlling a cup of water will get some of the energy projected into it, until they cease control and the energy will return to their body. There will be a residual amount of the energy on it, however. It's so faint that it's extremely hard to even detect, only extremely specialized and complex technology can detect faint amounts of the energy. Another interesting effect the energy has is how it grows within a human being. Starting out with a small amount of the energy, until it grows as they develop and learn new things about their powers. Stronger Meta-humans tend to have more energy within them. However, there's a particular connection between high-stress situations and the advancement of powers. Under high-stress situations, powers rapidly develop.

There is no set age when powers develop. Some Meta-humans are born with their powers, while others won't develop until late into their lives. Powers received are sporadic at best. There is no way to predict what power a Meta-human will have, nor who will develop powers. Not even the strongest information-type can determine that. That said, any power a Meta-human receives is almost random. Completely unrelated to race, culture, education, or physical activity. It is also theorized that every human being has the potential to become a meta-human. However, there are such a thing as hereditary powers. Powers passed from parents to the children, or simply run in the family. These are relatively uncommon, but this is the reason why there are entire families of Meta-humans. However, while inherent powers do exist, anyone will get a different version of a passed down power. In what ways vary. Sometimes it's a slight difference, then other times there's a difference in function, or they will have an ability that nobody else have. Like it's been stated before, Inherent powers are uncommon, but there is a chance family members will get a power. Which will be explained below.

Meta-humans have a very particular effect attached to them: The Black Fall Effect. This has two main effects on the meta-human population. Firstly, all Meta-humans are subconsciously attracted to each other. So subtly that it's next to impossible to even notice. It causes the shyest people to head out and interact, or draws people to one particularly location. The more Meta-humans that are around, it will cause a "flocking" effect. The other primary effect is that those who spend plenty of time around other Meta-humans have a higher chance to develop powers themselves. It can't be a minimum amount of contact, it has to be years around Meta-humans for someone to develop powers. Which is why family members and close friends are extremely likely to get powers.

Meta-humans are only capable of using one third of their potential strength, very similar to muscles. These natural limits are theorized to be in place so that they don't burn out. However, similar to flight-or-flight, high-stress situations allow Meta-humans to push themselves beyond their blocks, and develop them in the process. However, while powers are truly incredible, they come at a price. Powers have a toll on the body and mind. Excessive and unrestrained use would cause what could be described as physical overexertion. They'll get tired and weak from use, along with some bodily damage. Pushing powers beyond their limits in high stress situations cause even worse problems, and at it's most extreme, it may cause an effect known as "Ashing". This is basically an extremely deadly aliment where a Meta-human self destructs. Their powers shut off, and all their cells will die at an alarmingly fast rate. Their cells will drop off their body like specs of ash, and this process will continue until there is absolutely nothing left of a Meta-human. This state is extremely deadly, and there's a mere 4% chance of survival - Even if a ashing victim does survive, there are some permanent physical damage (Amputation, Brain damage, loss of powers, etc, etc - Are a few). Ashing is what Meta-humans truly fear, as any meta-human can ash if they are not careful.

There is a slight prejudice against Meta-humans. With people who can easily tear a city to shreds, it's a given. However, with the advent of NEST and the other laws in place to keep Meta-humans in check, it has greatly waned. All Meta-humans must be registered and have a special chip implanted in them that will allow them to be identified by NEST officials. Any unregistered Metas caught will be immediately forced to register.

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| Classifications of Metahumans |

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The RAVEN/DOVE organization assigns every Meta-human a specific class based on their type of power.

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| Cerebral |

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The Mind. Easily the most straight forward out of all the power types; Cerebral powers have something to do with the mind. Any power that has something to do with the mind. Out of the three primary power types, Cerebral powers are the least diverse. Usually falling under powers that let people gather information, alter minds, or exert their wills on the outside world. Telepathy and Telekinesis are the primary Cerebral ability - with a great deal of the Cerebral types have differing versions of those two powers. There are a variety of other Cerebral abilities (Astral projection, Memory Manipulation, etc). Subclasses:

• Extra-Sensory.
  The Extra-sensory class entails powers that allow people to gather (and sometimes share) information on a extra-mental level. A sixth sense you could say. Powers under this sub-class strictly deal with gathering information. Telepathy is stated to be under this class, yet the powers that are mainly under this class are Extra-sensory powers such as ESP, Precognition, Retrocognition, etc.

• Domination.

| Super-System |

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The Body. Super-System type Meta-humans have abilities related to the body of themselves or others. Super-System powers are easily the most diverse out of all the Power Classes. Any power that changes (or enhances) the body in any way can be classified as a Super-System power. Powers such as Super strength/speed, flight, and Regeneration are prime examples of Super-System abilities. Subclasses:

• Bestial.
  A very common sub-type of Metahuman, Bestial Metahumans have traits from the Animal kingdom. Most, generally, have the traits of one Animal. These abilities are divided into two functions; either they're permanently altered with the animal traits, or they have the ability to transform into animals. They don't exactly have to be based off an animal, a Metahuman can simply have animal-like, or bestial traits. There are some Bestial Metahumans that are based off of Mythological-beasts (Such as Werewolves, Dragon, etc).

• Biological.
  Those under the Biological class have the direct ability to actively manipulate their biology and anatomy, rather than have permanent alterations. They have the ability to manipulate the biological makeup of themselves and others. Bones, blood, skin, muscle, etc. This can include shape-shifting, growing new muscles, and skin-manipulation.

| Elemental |

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The World. Those under the Elemental class have the ability to warp matter and energy to their will. Most Elemental types have control over one, or several similar, elements. Many of them function the same way, in the way that each Elemental-type has the ability to move the Element that they have control over, along with a few extra tricks. However, not all Elemental types are like this. Any ability relating to a kind of matter falls under the Elemental Class. A Metahuman that could turn into stone, or a Meta empowered by water, would count as an Elemental ability (Albeit falling under the Super-System Class). However, abilities that have to do with the manipulation of body, or mind, would be Super-System or Cerebral. Subclasses:

• Energy.
  Energy-types are Metahumans with an affinity over Energies. They operate similarly to Elemental-types, they can generally create and control an energy they are attuned to. This is a very broad definition. It can range from electricity, to fire, to sunlight, or sound. Just like it's parent class, turning into energy, or getting empowered by it also counts as Energy.

• Mimic.

| Power |

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The Essence. The least common type of Meta-human out there. Opposed to altering the mind, body, or the world, Power-types alter the very essence of Superpowers; the Meta-human energy. For example they can alter it (On a large, or small, scale) to give themselves different powers (Power replication comes to mind), or enhance, or weaken, the powers of others. They are easily the most feared out of all the Power-types. There are some Meta-humans under this class who can give or take away powers - there's even some who can manipulate powers themselves.

• Replication.

• Charger/Dampener.

| Other |

Powers that simply don't fall under the above categories.

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| Metahuman Hotspots ||

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| Black Fall |

The proclaimed "City of Freaks". Black Fall is famous because it has the most Metahumans congregated into one City (1% of all Metahumans live in Black Fall). Easily the most important location for Metahumans. The city went from a small fishing town to a major hub for gamblers, tourists, businessmen, and families, in the course of a few centuries. It contains people of almost every ethnic background. It is located in Pennsylvania, on the Delaware river, not too far away from Philadelphia. It is split down the middle by the river, with one part of the city on each side. Technically it is apart of New Jersey too, since one side of Black Fall is technically on the state of New Jeresy. The West side of the city is known as "Old World Black Fall" where the city started. It has most of the population centers and major buildings that have been there from the start. The East side of the city is known as "New Black Fall" which is much more commercialized. It contains most of the clubs, casinos, and mansions.

| Stadium City |

Created over the course of a few decades, with heavy Metahuman involvement, Stadium City stands in Ohio. Stadium City was ordered by the President to be created by Metahumans in order to help alleviate the Anti-Metahhuman hysteria and show that they are helpful. Stadium City, in design, doesn't appear too different from other cities. It has residential districts, a downtown, plenty of skyscrapers and more. It has plenty of Metahumans, however. After the construction of the city, many of the Metahumans that made it stayed in Stadium City and their descendants remained there. However, it was ridden with crime for decades. Over the years, the city began a hive for all sorts of Organized Crime, plenty of which involved Metahumans. Plenty of gangs and mafias made Stadium City their home. The Police and NEST had a hard time getting them out, as plenty of them were corrupt themselves. However, things changed once the Tyrants moved in and took over. Now, the underground crime belongs to the Tyrants, and the city is much better. Crime is at a low, and people feel safe again. Also, the ISD Headquarters is also situated in Stadium City.

| Highroller Heights |

Located near the borders of Arizona and Nevada, Highroller Heights is the bastard son of Las Vegas (Sometimes referred to as New Vegar). Massive, boiling hot, in the middle of an american desert, and gives you great reason to check your shoes every morning. Just without the class and style that movies and other media outlets build it up to be. It's run down, the people are bitter, and just about everyone wants to make a quick buck - At the expense of others of course. This city has tons of casinos, and other fancy places to make the place look good for the tourists (The main source of income of High-Roller heights). But when you see the city for what it really is, you'll reconsider. By day it's a sandy city, a pleasant place, if you know where to go. At night, the seven deadly sins take over. Sex workers, gangsters, drug dealers, rapists, and lunatics roam the streets. To say the least, crime is high here. Because corruption is rooted so deep, the crimes are brushed aside with a simple wad of cash. High-Roller Heights has racial diversity, so people of all colors are a common sight in this city, along with a high population. The city is located in the middle of an active desert. There is sand far as the eye can see, it's skin blistering hot, and since it's a desert; don't expect rain. Superhumans are a common sight here.

| Mendel |

_{By @Maxx}

Located in northern Louisiana on the border between Louisiana and Mississippi is Mendel, a city of about 200,000 people where 6,000 are meta-human. The city was once a manufacturing hotspot, but when the Corvo Family, a metahuman organized crime syndicate, moved in, everything changed. They began to pump money into the west side of the city, attracting more businesses and cleaning it up significantly despite weakening the east side. The city is divided in half by the Mississippi, similar to Black Fall. The east side is a poor city living around the few factories left operating, and the west side is a more modern metropolis with a lot of corporate buildings. The city is most famous, however, for its gangs; the Vanguard and the Skulls. The two rival gangs have a tremendous amount of influence on their perspective sides, and often clash with police and each other, much to the appeal of the media. About a year ago there was a gang war between the two sides which gained international attention and left parts of the city in complete ruin.

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| Organizations ||

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[Punished GN]

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|| Overview of Verthaven ||

Size: 38,442 acres
Population: 936,128
Time: July 20th, 2015
Crime: High

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Verthaven is a metropolis on the very beaches of California, in between San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The city started out centuries ago as a coastal settlement during the Californian gold rush. Gold was found in the mountain, so they formed a small town for a place to rest. During this period, Verthaven grew into a mighty city - just like it's rival city, San Francisco. Even after the Gold Rush ended, and they milked the mountain dry, the city continued to boom. In a few years, the population absolutely quadrupled, and continued to grow. Rows and rows of houses were built, and because of it's location, it became a hub for fisheries, traders, and rich families. Who helped the city thrive. Pushing into the 1900's, the city quickly became a massive boom-town capable of rivaling it's neighbor cities. Skyscrapers, row-houses, businesses, and more, quickly filled up the budding city until it reached it's peak.

It's technically bigger than San Francisco, but no where near as large as San Diego. It's location also made it a great spot for the overprivileged, and vacationers. Even to this day, not much has changed. The population of the city is slightly higher than that of San Francisco too. The population is large, diverse, and open to a myriad of change. It's population is diverse in terms of Ethnicity too. Plenty of people chose Verthaven as their destination when they immigrated. The city is comprised of a wide range of Caucasian, Asian, African, cultures, with some Middle-Eastern people making the place their home. This has influenced the city being very multi-cultured, and tolerant of each other. However, like Black Fall, it has become a hot-spot for Metahuman activity. Many Metahumans gathered in Verthaven during the early 50's, after Metahumans were outed. The Black Fall effect gathered the westward Metahumans in Verthaven, just like how the Metahumans on the Eastern part of the United States went to Black Fall. A large minority of its large population is Metahuman, and it's another reason the city has so much to note. Crime used to be pretty low, but as the years went by, and more organizations sprung Verthaven, it has gone up. The city's poverty and levels of homelessness has also been on a steady increase and shows no signs of stopping. However, a major blow has been dealt against the city's organized crime. The Fifth-Seed Crime Syndicate, Verthaven's mafia, and La Familia De Asesinos, a Mexican cartel, have been eliminated by the police (With support of NEST). Removing two major players from Verthaven's crime world. The side-effect was that it left a power vacuum.

One of the main draws of Verthaven is it's rather unique geography. Starting off with the miles, and miles of pure sandy beaches (And other noteworthy landmarks like rocks, and businesses). It makes it a great place for people to relax - whether you're on vacation or not. The sea beyond the beaches are pure Atlantic Ocean. Easily the city's most distinguishing feature is the network of waterways that go through the city like a large web. These rivers are what the city was built around, and they're well integrated into the city's design. The largest and most notable river is the Cross-River, which, as the name implies, is cross-shaped, and miles wide. One end comes from the oceans, while the other leads into other places in the United States. It splits the city into four large sections, with a network of smaller rivers running through them. Each of the rivers lead into a large lake in the very center of the city, and inside of this lake contains an island. Giving the city a very unique look when walking through it. The city itself appears to be a mixture of New York, San Francisco, and Venice. It's a very populous city, and it's lined with all sorts of houses, businesses, and places to just have fun. The streets are lined with palm trees, and other bushes. The city is absolutely massive, and thus, there are plenty of ways to traverse the lands. There is a massive network of highways connecting each part of the city with one another, along with a trolly network that'd give everyone a scenic way to get around. What the city is mainly noted for contributing to the Metahuman community, other than it's high population. Inside of the city limits of Verthaven contains the NEST National Headquarters. It's a major contributor to NEST activities all over North America. This is where the most NEST Agents are trained, and is the home to the very first NEST team.

Weather is generally fairly sunny around Verthaven. It's very unexpected for any weather conditions other than rain. The city is warm and sunny during the summer, and moderately cold in the winter months. Year round, the city is very humid due to all the water that flows through the streets. The city sees rain quite often. It's also at risk for flooding, and tsunamis. The city has faced floods more often than any other city on the Californian coast. In 2003, the city was hit with the largest and most destructive tsunami in the city's history. The city was flooded, and hundreds of people died, many more were injured. Massive damage was caused to the city, the very same damage that is being fixed to this very day.

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|| Districts of Verthaven ||

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As stated above; Verthaven is divided into four sections called isles, and from there, their land is sectioned into various sub-districts. Each isle has it's own name, which has it's own special theme. Each isle has a female name ending in a. Isabella Isle is the top-left section of the city, holding it's pore official districts. Estella Isle is the bottom-left section, and is more of the city's business and shopping center. Rosalina Isle is the top-right section of the city, being it's the leisure center and its primary commercial area. Priscilla Isle is the bottom-right a more domestic district that is primarily residential. Now, the city's shape is best described as squarish, with a cross shaped river separating these locations. At the very center of the city is a massive lake known as the Centerpiece Lake.

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| ISABELLA ISLE |

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| Ferris Square (AKA. City Hall) |

One of the oldest sections of the city. Ferris square is the political heart of the city, and houses some of the first buildings, known as City Hall Square. City Hall Square contains large garden for tourists to walk through, leading up to the stairs of City Hall. City hall itself is a massive building that stands over the garden like the White-House. It's the center of all the official Verthaven decisions. Around City-Hall Square are some of the first houses that were planted during the Gold Rush. These houses are considered to be Antique Homes, and kept to the highest standard. Only those willing to shell out money, and put considerable effort into maintaining these houses are allowed to even purchase them. Some of these houses (The especially old ones) are inhabited, and merely kept around as tourist attractions. Other than that, Ferris-Square has to be the smallest district of the City. There aren't too many residential areas, as everything here is kept official. Not too far away from City-Hall is the primary police headquarters.

| Knightdale Rows |

Surrounding Ferris-Square is the Knightdale-Rows Residential district. The more high-end neighborhood due to it's proximity to Ferris-Square. Unlike the other districts, Knightdale rows consists more of nice Apartments, and Condos rather than houses. In fact, houses are scarce. The district itself has a very lowly, modern feel. It looks a little bit. It's a hot-spot for Hipsters because plenty of it's locations cater to the Hipster-Demographic. It's jam-packed with Dive-bars, parks (For music festivals), and clubs. Along with stores that sell Hipster fashion. It's ideal for the over-privileged music lover, artist, or Tumblr Warrior. Knightdale Rows doesn't have too much crime due to the high police presence. Certain organizations operate within the Knightdale Rows, however.

| The Ghost Town |

Originally a section of Knightdale Rows, a terrible accident was caused by a Metahuman which destroyed a couple houses, and left the area in hospitable. It's been long evacuated, and closed off by the city officials. Leaving nothing but ruins here. Damaged homes, businesses, and parks. However, the location is often hit up by teenagers off on dares. The place is spooky, and that's the appeal of it. Often enough, they're picked up by VPD and told to get out of there. Strangely enough, some of them said they saw strange creatures lurking outside their peripheral....

| NEST Headquarters |

Far west of Ferris-Square is the Tower that overlooks the city. This is the NEST National Headquarters, and it's where much of the nationwide NEST decisions are made. It's where the NEST Chairmen, and City-Directions, come to meet in times of Crisis. It's a massive base that's several miles large, and contains plenty of buildings - merely a few miles away from the beach, and some of the base is touching the Cross River. The main building is a massive Skyscraper that touches the cloud. A beauty of modern architecture made out of concrete and steel - what people generally see is the glass windows (Bulletproof and reinforced) going from the very top to bottom. This building contains office after office, meeting room after meeting room, and plenty of databanks. Surrounding the main building are several other buildings. Such as a Prison, Barracks, a Hangar to house NEST vehicles, a Hospital, and Docks. Other than those buildings, a majority of the Headquarters is dedicated to training future NEST Agents. There's miles of training grounds (Obstacle course, shooting ranges, etc). Finally, surrounding the NEST Headquarters is a massive fence.

| The Crystal Shores |

Northern parts of the sandy white beach. Separated from it's lower half, The Fire Shores, by merely a few mile wide river. The Crystal Shores are much nicer and more expensive than it's sister beach. Despite being the smaller one. While there's plenty of public beaches - it's shore is lined with private beaches for those who can afford them. The Crystal Shores are dotted with hotels, casinos, and high-end apartments/condos. There's even a few mansions on the beach.

| Academy 12 |

Academy 12 is one of the very first Superhuman Academies set up. It's located to the far north-west of the NEST HQ, built not too far off the beaches of the Crystal Shores - and on the very city limits of Verthaven. Academy 12 is one of the primer Academies set up by the Academy Project (It's main rival being Academy 218). Built with the idea of educating, and training young Metahumans with using their powers, so they may safely be integrated into society. It has everything that students need. Dorms, Training Rooms, Education Rooms, Shops, and etc. Dorms are entirely optional because of the proximity of Residential areas.

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| ESTELLA ISLE |

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| Bazaar Riviera |

Overlooking the shores of the Cross River is the Bazaar Riviera. Which is basically row after row of various stores on the water front, going to the very center lake. A historical location coming from the time the city was just growing. Stores here have items imported from various countries, and offer wares from many cultures. They offer special items that people can't get anywhere else in the city. Whether it's an antique, or even food that comes from different countries. The Bazaar is also home to many Apartments. The Bazaar has plenty of crime. Mostly in the form of purse-snatchers waiting for women to drop their guard, and thieves that'll snatch items at the first available opportunity.

| Eureka Harbor |

On the river-bank towards the point where the rivers meet is the Harbor district of Verthaven. Similar to the Iron District below, it's comprised of, you guessed it, docks. Large cranes can be seen from all over the Estella Isle, and this is usually the first destination for boats. However, it's pretty seedy, hookers, pimps, and drug dealers hit this place up pretty often. It's also wear many illegal goods are smuggled in and out of Verthaven.

| Union-Point Hills |

South of the Bazaar Riviera is the Union-Point Hills, another major residential area that makes up the majority of the Estella Isle. It's called Union-Point hills because the District is on ground much more elevated than other parts of the city. It's just as historical as the Bazaar Riviera. Union-Point is rowhouse, after rowhouse, after rowhouse. Consisting primarily of middle-class families. There's not as much diversity here than there is in other Residential Districts. Union-Point consists primarily of Caucasian people, with other Ethnicities being uncommon. Pushing southwards, the housing drastically drops in quality. As many of the people who live in the lower parts of Union-Point are low-income. It has a distinct Italian influence, as many Italian families moved in. It has plenty of Italian Eateries (Like Pizza).

| Chinatown |

Not too far off from Union-Point is the city's Chinatown. The section of the city dedicated to Asian culture - not just China's. The streets and buildings are covered with Chinese decorations, and structures. Plenty of neon signs gives the place a distinct look at night. People go here if they want to get some good Asian food. Chinatown is famous for it's restaurants. It's also known for it's various Martial arts studios. There are plenty of houses and apartments that are home to Chinese families.

| The Iron District (AKA. The Industrial District) |

Located south of Union-Point is what make jobs. It's a massive sector that consists of plenty of factories, warehouses, docks, and etc, providing jobs for the big burly men of Verthaven. Times are hard around Verthaven, so it's not as populous as it used to be. Many of it's locations have been shut down. Leaving once prosperous buildings empty, and decaying. This part of the city has become a bit of a Ghetto. The houses are cheap, so people are quick to flock to them, and there's plenty of rundown Projects. Thus, the location has become an invitation for crime.

| The Fire Shores |

The Southern half Verthaven's massive beachlands. It's always alive with beach-goers coming from all over the country. It's a popular spot for surfers, and tanners. Unlike the Crystal Shores, the Fire Shores are more accessible. Meaning less private-beaches, as a great majority of it is public beaches. It's dotted with Beach houses for whoever can afford them. It has plenty of restaurants, hotels, and there's even a massive amusement part built on top of a boardwalk in the center of the beach.

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| ROSALINA ISLE |

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| Downtown |

A great deal of money is poured into The Crowns to make sure it's the very pinnacle of Verthaven. It's a large tourist attraction that lies on the South-western part of the Rosalina Isle. Containing hundreds of shops, restaurants, and various hotels - and the District is known for it's restaurants. There are many different kinds of restaurants here (From many different cultures), and they are all delicious and high-classed. The streets are usually lined with residents and tourists walking to their destinations. The Crowns is lined with massive skyscrapers, and tourist attractions.

| Turtle-Creek |

North of Downtown is Turtle-Creek, the richest neighborhood in the city. Turtle-Creek is lined with expensive house after expensive house, with some high-end apartments and mansions thrown in for good measure. The people who live in Turtle-Creek are among the city's wealthiest people, and they support the city in the only way they can, by pouring money into the city. Thus, Verthaven holds Turtle-Creek on a higher priority than the rest of the city. Crime response is near instant, along with the district being the cleanest and shiniest section. Inwards, there are plenty of private schools, and colleges for the rich and important.

| Las Palmas Strip |

East of Downtown is the Las Palmas Strip, a Las Vegas like strip of Casinos, Clubs, Strip Clubs, and hookers. It's the smallest section of the Rosalina Isle, but it's by far the most memorable. It's the center for sinners who want to go out at night and have some fun. During the day, it's nothing special - A few restaurants, and casinos are open - but during the night it comes alive. Full of all sorts of people. From the saints who want a little sin. To the sinners who want to be saints. Crime is pretty high in this section. It's just loaded with drug-dealers, pimps, prostitutes, and drug addicts high out of their mind. Other than those locations, there's a few raceways, and hotels - along with some dingy apartments on the outermost parts of Las Palmas.

| Eagle-Rock Row |

Forming an L around Downtown, Turtle-Creek, and Las Palmas is the City's "ghetto" located right on the very edges of Verthaven. Contrary to belief, Eagle-Rock Row is easily the largest district of Verthaven, and it also holds the title of being the worst part of it. It's the poor district of the city, and because of it's low property taxes, it's full of the less desirable people. And run down houses. Eagle-Rock Row is just strife with crime - with three major gangs working out of the district. The Row also has shady motels, shitty casinos, and STD infested strip clubs.

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| PRISCILLA ISLE |

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| Central Valley |

One of the primary Residential Districts in Verthaven. Central Valley contains a good amount of it's population centered in this densely populated district. True to it's name, Central Valley is located within a somewhat steep valley. Central Valley is very suburban, there's not too many row houses or apartments. It's generally comprised of nice looking single houses. Obviously, this section of the city is populated by the middle-class. There are plenty of children in this segment of the city because of the schools, and the proximity to University Row.

| University Row |

A district that is West of Central Valley. University Row was created because back in the day there weren't too many schools in Verthaven. Most of the young students went to other cities in order to get a higher education. This was corrected when several colleges were set up, along with plenty of grade-schools. Houses and apartments were also set up close by in order to provide cheap housing for college students. There's also some families living in University-Row, but they are far and in between.

| Columbian-Heights Park |

Sandwiched in between Central Valley, and University-Row is an upper-class neighborhood, known as Columbia-Heights Park. It is, as the name implies, a massive park that has been declared it's very own district. This area is a very nice looking part of the Priscilla Isle. It has tall trees, and the rivers flowing through it are very clean. Columbian-Heights has paths, and bridges going throughout it. Which makes it ideal for the bike-rider or jogger. Along with picnic areas, stages, and more. There's some houses in Columbian-Heights, and they are fairly nice. Though, Columbia Height's housing is generally comprised of Apartments.

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| Misc. Locations |

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| Centerpiece-Lake |

The Centerpiece-Lake is the large circular body of water that the Cross-Rivers lead into. The Centerpiece lake is what the corners of each isle touch. They each have beaches on the corners of them. It's not uncommon to see yachts, and such boats going through it. The lake goes fairly deep, and has a island (More of that below) right in the center of it.

| Standing-Rock Mountain |

The mountain-island in the lake that lies within the very center of the city. It's a massive island, with a tall mountain that can be seen from most points in the city, touching the clouds. Because of urging from Historical, and environmental, groups, the island has zero industrialization, and is completely untouched by companies, and the housing market. The base of the mountain is surrounded by a dense forest of trees, brimming with wildlife. From Verthaven's origins as a gold town, there is a complex network of mineshafts going through it. Normally, it's only used as a tourist attraction, all other times it's strictly closed off. There are old towns that were well used during the gold-rush, and, like the Mineshafts, they are only used as tourist attractions. There are no roads or bridges to the island - the only way on is by boat, or by swimming.

| Eastover Woods |

The very east-end of Verthaven is surrounded by thick woods, known as the Westover Woods. This area is full of swampy wilderness, and wild animals. Relatively devoid of human life, other than a few houses and cabins. Roads and trails run through these woods - and beyond them, are clear Californian plains for miles.

| The Sewers |

Underneath the city is a complex network of tunnels that act as the sewers. They are dark, cold, concrete tunnels, full of human waste and trash. They are often used by gang members as a way to get around, and to act as a hideout. Plenty of the city's rejects have also taken residence in the sewers.

| Island of Providence |

Technically not apart of Verthaven, the Island of Providence is a island that rests several miles off the coast of Verthaven. One large tropical island, with a archipelago on the east end of it. It has a small village on it, along with plenty of resorts and hotels, with it's intention being a vacation hot-spot.

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|| Gangs & Organized Crime of Verthaven ||

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| The Fiends |

Easily the most dangerous and unpredictable gang that has taken the Iron District, and Union-Point hills as their territory. Responsible for a number of robberies, murders, rapes, and riots. They do whatever they want, and what places them above the other factions is that they lack subtlety. They're willing to open fire in a crowd of people, bumrush a line of police officers with knives and hammers, and walk into the White House and announce they have a bomb in their back pocket. Most of this recklessness comes from the fact that most of the fiends are hopped up on experimental drugs that makes them willing to do just about anything. They are a band of vicious drug-dealers that distribute experimental new drugs to the inhabitants of Verthaven. These drugs range from hallucinogenics, and drugs that induce mutations. These "experimental" drugs come from the Hands of Science, who are merely using the fiends as a middleman in order to test their drugs on unsuspecting people. The Fiends are a very large gang, consisting of adults, teens, and even children. Whoever the gang can get hopped up on their drugs counts as one of their soldiers. A small percentage of the Fiends are Metahuman. Members of the Fiends often wear gas-masks, and cover their body with tattoos. This is their downfall, however. A Fiend alone is easily managed, but a group can be a massive headache. Their arsenal inevitably, varies. They can go from using fire-arms, to garden tools. Just whatever a single member can get their hands on. It's very hard to peg their leadership, but the Fiends seem to be ran by a man named "The King", and six of his lieutenants, who relay the orders from him. NEST and Verthaven's Police Department have been working hand in order to stop the Fiends. NEST is involved because they want to know where the Fiends are getting drugs that mutate people (And destroy the source), along with stopping Metahuman members of the faction. To the point where a great deal of the city's Police efforts is going towards stopping the Fiends.

| The Fiend Remnants |

After the crushing defeat of the Fiends, the gang has been reduced to nothing but a group of ragtag remnants. Scrounging up what weapons, drugs, and mutagen that were left behind. The Fiend Remnants are no where near as dangerous as the original Fiends. Selling drugs, and barely holding on to what little territory that wasn't claimed by other gangs. These remnants are lead by the Metahuman known only as "Deez Nuts".

| The Highway Stars |

The Highway Stars are a rather ruthless Biker gang that claims to merely be a group of harmless motorcycle enthusiasts. That couldn't be any further from the truth. The Highway Stars are vicious, and show little mercy. They attack people, sell drugs, rape women, and steal cars. Many people have fallen prey to the Highway Stars and have left with only their lives. As their name implies, they claimed Verthaven's highways as their territory. They operate out of various garages, bars, and strip-clubs (Namely the ones close to the Highway). They'll let anyone with a motorcycle join, race does not matter to them. Their initiation into the gang is decided by older members. It could range from stealing something, to downright murder. They patrol up and down the highways of Verthaven looking for easy picking. Either a car they want to jack, or someone walking down the Highways. Once they find their targets, they'll box the person in and brutally beat them down (Even killing some of their victims), and take everything they have. They believe in returning the favor against all who cross them. They remember who pisses them off, and they'll set up a trap for the person. They'll lure the target onto the Highway (Or wait for them), then they'll go wild. They'll violently attack their mark while they're on the road. Throwing objects at them, breaking their windows, shooting out their tires, and eventually knocking them off the road. If the person survives, then they'll either leave them alone, or go in for another beating. They're known for being very volatile. So much as saying the wrong thing to one of them is enough for them to mark you. The Highway Stars are a large gang, and they have enough members to keep eyes on the city's highways. Members usually wear leather jackets with the gang's Star logo on the back. Despite their tendency for violence, the Highway Stars primarily sell drugs (Mainly heroine) along the city's Highways. The gang often gets into conflicts with the Fiends and the Red Crown.

| The Iron Cross |

One of the city's oldest gangs, formed in the 50's during the height of racial tensions. Operating in the Priscella, Estella and Rosalina Isles, The Iron Cross, at it's core, are a group of violent white supremacists. They were credited for many violent attacks on non-white people, and plenty of deaths. The Iron Cross are responsible for a number of hate-crimes across Verthaven. Their mission is a ethnic cleansing of the city. Because of their ideology, they are very hard for the police to get rid of. Along with being very large - they have even recruited people from other cities. Their members is very high, and dangerous - along with diverse in age group (Some of their members are old people). Many of their members look the part - they're covered in tattoos, shaved heads, and jackets with patches of Nazi symbols. Membership includes committing a sufficient enough hate-crime for the Iron Cross to consider them dedicated enough. A bit of their membership consists of Metahumans. The Iron Cross are armed with all sorts of weapons, mostly the weapons that their members brings. The Iron Cross are very organized, and they take orders from a man known as Kaiser Plage. People don't know who he is, but he's known to be a Metal manipulating Metahuman. Their main opponent is the Red Crown, a smaller, but equally dangerous, gang. For... obvious reasons. They have declared all out war on each other, and plenty of people are being caught in the cross-fire.

| The Red Crowns |

The self proclaimed "Kings" of Eaglerock Row. Compared to the Crips, and the Bloods, The Red Crowns are the newest part of the "gangster" craze (Fueled by bad rap music). They are mainly comprised of African-American, and Hispanic males (With some Asians) who couldn't get good jobs, or simply didn't want to. The Red Crowns were originally two smaller gangs, the Reds, and the Spanish Crowns. They united because of the common enemy they saw in the Iron Cross, who were utterly demolishing both of them in numbers. The Red Crowns formed an alliance, and that alliance quickly became a combination of the two factions, and they quickly grew from there. Gathering people that were abused by the Iron Cross, they became a massive threat within Eaglerock Row. Despite having a bit of infighting, and rivalries within the members. They distribute drugs to the community, and do things you'd expect such a gang to do (Rob people, break up stores, and etc). They have a very small percentage of Metahumans (At least three) among their ranks, and they're treated as soldiers of the highest degree. They have been known to attempt to force other Metahumans to join them. Their members are denoted by red colors, and symbols of royalty. It's not uncommon for them to spray-paint their territory with Crowns, or Thrones. Most of their efforts have been combating the Iron Cross - the organization they declared war on - and the Fiends - their main competition in the drug trade. It's best not to cross the Red Crowns, as they are very numerous and dangerous.

| The White Spider Society |

The White Spider Society are a very mysterious organization that specializes in sex, basically. They own several clubs and brothels all over the nicer parts of Verthaven - having a heavy presence in Las Palmas, and Downtown. The White Spider Society in Verthaven is merely a branch of a larger organization that is situated in Europe (And still have heavy connections to them). The Organization itself is owned by White Arachne, a very wealthy and mysterious woman. She has enough money in order to support the Society, and pay off anyone who might bring up any issue. She doesn't exactly run Verthaven's branch, she leaves her daughter to handle it (With her orders in mind, of course). Yet, she sometimes appears in Verthaven (Because she constantly remains on the move). The White Spider Society is very mysterious, despite having public brothels and clubs open to everyone. They keep as much about the inner-workings of the organization a secret. For good reason, the Society runs Verthaven's prostitution ring, and manage high-quality prostitutes all over the city. Along with importing/exporting prostitutes into other countries. The Society also has an interest in catering to "acquired tastes" which come in the form of Metahumans. They primarily recruit Metahumans with Bestial power-sets to work in their brothels. The Society is incredibly classy, and well organized. The members are recruited, and only those who can uphold the Society's standard are allowed in. Men or women, they do not discriminate. It's members are noted for wearing animal themed masquerade masks, white, pinstriped, suits, and having incredibly polite, butler-like, personalities. These are to make the members blend in to each other as much as possible (And keep their identities a secret). Despite these traits, the Society is easily the most docile gang. They do not commit violent crimes unless they are pushed. When someone does cross them, they tend to go missing. White Arachne has been bribing the police and NEST to keep off of her for a little while now...

| The Good Magic Family |

The Good Magic Family are a splinter group of a organized crime family that works out of Highroller Heights called the Noctis Family (Ran by one of their princes, Cyril Noctis). The Family calls themselves a sort of high-class mafia like the old Chicago gangs - despite owning relatively little territory. They are a small gang that mainly extorts "protection" money out of businesses in the Bazaar Riviera, though they cheat Casinos out of their money over in Las Palmas. Their members are adorned in suits, fedoras, and white porcelain masks, and often walk around with poker cards. The Good Magic family focus on subtlety above all else. They're an organization that would get wrecked by the police, or any other gang, if they attracted their attention. Which is why they're not known to be particularly violent - they refrain from murder. They attempt to handle their problems with money, and stealth. If violence is required, they are swift, dangerous, and quiet. They're not known for being violent, after all. Their leader, Cyril Noctis, is noteworthy for his actions before forming the Family. Doing everything he can to amass as much money as possible. It's left him a trail of enemies, but he uses his discreteness in order to avoid getting flayed alive. He is a Metahuman with the power to control Casino-items, along with a few other neat tricks. He's often accompanied by his silent assistant Morgana Ogmur, a woman who is a living plant.

| The Pure |

The Pure have a sizable chapter within the bounds of Verthaven. Because of it's heavy Metahuman activity, and the presence of the NEST HQ, they feel it's necessary to put more effort towards "making it pure". They have killed a large amount of Metahumans over the years ruthlessly. They have most notably butt heads with many of Verthaven's criminal organizations. Getting into fights with them because they have Metahumans. Recently, members of the Pure from all over the nation have been gathering together in Verthaven....

| The Hands of Science |

Ever since the conception of the Hands of Science, they have had a heavy hand in Verthaven. They have several secret labs within the city limits, and have been kidnapping Metahumans off the street to experiment on them. Along with tricking Metahumans into taking experimental injections (In order for them to test what would happen). However, they have a hand in several of the factions listed above. They are in contact with the Fiends to provide them with drugs they need to test. They also have a hand in NEST, The Pure, The White Spider Society, the Iron Cross, and various small time crooks (Spoilers!). Pulling their strings behind the scenes.

[Punished GN]

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| Misc |

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NEST Weapons & Gadgets

• Advanced Firearms: NEST, naturally, has access to a variety of top-grade firearms. Assault Rifles, Snipers, Pistols, and so on. The weapons have been modified to use different types of ammunition, or to be resistant to a certain type of power. Not much else to go over here.
• Fleet of Vehicles: Much like their access to firearms, NEST has a wide variety of vehicles at their disposal. Humvees, Vans, Trucks, helicopters, boats, etc. These vehicles are painted black, and have the NEST Logo painted on them. These vehicles have, of course, been modified to be durable and armored. Some are even modified to be resistant to powers.
• Taser-Darts: One of the ammo-types that NEST Agents use to detain Metahumans are darts that unleash a brief electric shock on contact. This is enough to stun anyone without a resistance. Thus, allowing them to be detained.
• Power Suppressant Collars: Easily one of the chief pieces of NEST equipment that every Field NEST Agent is given out on the field. It's a simple metal collar that, once attached to a Metahuman, suppresses the Metahuman energy enough so that their power cannot be used.
• Metahuman Detector: Every NEST Agent comes equipped with a special device that lets them detect a Metahuman in the area. It doesn't exactly pin-point their location, but it lets a NEST Agent know if there's a Metahuman in the area.
• Wrist-Mounted Touchpad: Every field NEST Agent is given a special mini-computer that they can bring on the field that allows them to quickly access the NEST Databanks. Alternatively, it also counts as a backup communicator, a GPS, along with other useful gadgets (You can play Candy Crush on it!).
• Containment Foam: A special chemical compound created by studying a Metahuman. Containment Foam is a chemical mixture fired from a special sprayer device that quickly expands, and hardens, on contact. Incasing whatever is unlucky enough inside of it. Once hardened, containment foam is incredibly durable, heat resistant, and corrosion resistant - it will usually soften on it's own, but there's a special compound which breaks it down. This is usually used on Metahumans that are resistant to physical damage, or is too dangerous to approach up close.
• Anti-Metahuman Depressant Gas: A very special NEST chemical that was accidentally discovered by ISD scientists. It is a gas that, once it gets inhaled by a Metahuman, and acts as a powerful depressant. Slowing them down, and eventually knocking them out. Only those with high chemical resistances can stave off it's effects.

~More to be added~

Branches & Factions of NEST

• Information & Investigation (I&I): A branch within NEST that specializes in managing and processing all the information that NEST has to offer. The branch doesn't usually participate in the field operations, and instead assists Agents in the field from behind the scenes. Comprised of Investigators, Intelligence Officers, Mission Control, and more, this branch was crucial to the success of many operations. I&I also heads the many investigations into Internal Affairs, and Metahuman-related crimes such as murders, and thefts. Basically painting targets for the rest of the Agency.
• Task Force RAVEN: A newly formed task-force that was assembled in the height of the battle against the Hands of Science. Consisting of volunteers - which include some of NEST's finest. RAVEN was formed in Verthaven, and that is where it is currently operating. After the Hands of Science have been routed, they will move onto other cities where the Hands have a heavy presence.
• VULTURE: Most of NEST, nor the world, do not know of VULTURE. That is because they are a top secret special black ops group that only takes orders from NEST High-Command. They are comprised of the best Agents, and sent on the missions of a highest priority. They are to operate in secrecy, and never reveal what to do to the world. Therefore, they have free reign to do whatever is necessary to preserve national security. If whatever they do is revealed to the world, then High-Command will have to answer for it.

~More to be added~

[Punished GN]

@Altered Tundra@Wade Wilson@HHShetland@Corvidae@HushedWhispers@Defacto@DJAtomika@Savo@Zombiedude101@BurningDaisies

Squad, assemble! Welcome to the thread, let's get cracking.

Now here's a reminder to read this post.

[Wade Wilson]

I'm here! Starting up on my character sheet, and finally read the post. (My first reaction? Tl;dr, bro.)

[Wade Wilson]

Character Sheet

Basic Information

Name:

Colton Boyd Rhodes

Nickname/Alias/Etc:

Shadow

Gender:

Male

Age:

26

Height:

5'11"

Weight:

162 lbs

Home District:

Isabella Isle

Appearance

Hair Color:

Black

Eye Color:

Grey

Ethnicity:

Caucasian (American)

Physical Appearance:

Colton has slightly paler skin than most, since he's forced to hide from direct sunlight because of his powers. This doesn't hold him back, however, as he parkours and runs along the many rooftops of Verthaven. This has caused his muscles to be fairly strong for someone of his "judge by the cover" statistics, as most would expect him to be skinny and lanky. He is also slightly above average for his age, in both height and weight.

Attire:

Colton tends to wear dark hoodies and clothes that protect him from the sunlight, and at night time he wears white t-shirts with various vinyl designs printed on them, paired with dark green jeans.

Personality

Innate & Outward Personality:

Around those that know him, Colton is bright-eyed and light hearted. He is cheerful, and puts a smile on those around him, despite his seemingly "emo" look. His powers were completely random, and the exact opposite of him, so he really isn't one that likes to be judged by his looks. Anybody who is his friend will know that he's utterly modest and hard on himself, but still eager to learn and improve - the perfect growth mindset. When meeting someone not known by him, however, it's a different story. He's secretive, protective and emotionless. He does what needs doing and leaves. This has made him quite unpopular amongst people, and merely branded as "that weird emo kid". He doesn't care, though. However, if optimistic or welcoming enough, he will talk to and feel comfortable around certain people. Just be cheery and warm.

Hobbies/Interests:

Colton loves roofrunning and parkour, and also loves night time photography.

Skills/Talents:

He is very agile and athletic, and an incredibly fast runner. He is also great at using cover to his advantage, and excellent at planning out tactical approaches to things.

History/Bio:

|| He prefers to tell only those who deserve to know. ||

Relationships

Family:

N/A, his father left his mother two years ago, and his mother killed herself due to it. He never had any siblings.

Dynamics:

|| Hasn't met anybody yet, will update as he interacts with people. ||

Abilities

Power Class:

Elemental

Power:

Colton has the power to manipulate the shadows, and even turn into a shadow himself. He can also teleport short distances with this power, too.

Limits:

He doesn't have the ability to use his power to kill, only to knock out. He would have to push himself past his limits in order to kill.

Weaknesses/Drawbacks:

If he stays a shadow for too long, he will deteriorate and become anemic, or even collapse. He also can't teleport too far, or the same will happen. He's discovered the maximum distance is about 50 meters, if that.

Other:

He lives in an abandoned house in the Ghost Town as he can blend in with the shadows, and he runs an evening club that performs post-modern jukebox and steampunk songs, and even sometimes a cappella. He also considers himself a vigilante, as he tries to stop as many crimes as he can as he runs along the rooftops.

Theme

[HHShetland]

Quick question; how long would you be expecting posts to be? I find that the average length of one of those posts in the previous RPs is far too long for my level. :/

[Wade Wilson]

Done... finally... *faints*

[UrbanEvolution]

This RP looks ghey.

I want to jump in but idk if I can be active enough to participate like I did in the past. My heart's still here. Missing writing with ya, Allen.

[Punished GN]

@Wade Wilson Gonna have to say no to Darkness manipulation. The power rubs me the wrong way since darkness is basically nothing. Even if I was fine with it, you didn't particularly explain it well. Like, you said that he can "manipulate the shadows", and nothing else. Like, can he move stuff with it, or etc? Also, 50 meters is around 150 feet, which is like a power in and of itself.

Yeah, and I'd also like some backstory.

---

Quick question; how long would you be expecting posts to be? I find that the average length of one of those posts in the previous RPs is far too long for my level. :/

@HHShetland

Since I'm strongly against forcing length, the minimum is one paragraph. One.

---

@UrbanEvolution You couldn't jump back in if you tried.

You're just not cool enough.

[Naril]

I'm deeply intrigued by this! There's quite a lot to churn through - which I don't mind - but I'm definitely interested enough to do just that. Maybe you'll see something from me. :3

[Punished GN]

I'm deeply intrigued by this! There's quite a lot to churn through - which I don't mind - but I'm definitely interested enough to do just that. Maybe you'll see something from me. :3

@Naril

I'd definitely like to see something from you.

[BurningDaisies]

Still here. Just busy as usual.

Hey Mista J, you want a CS repost for Anna? How do you want to handle that stuff?

Nevermind. Found my answer.

[Punished GN]

Still here. Just busy as usual.

Hey Mista J, you want a CS repost for Anna? How do you want to handle that stuff?

Nevermind. Found my answer.

@BurningDaisies

No update to Anna's relations?

[BurningDaisies]

I'll get to it later. I want to write up some other stuff first.

[Punished GN]

Well, you have plenty of time. I'm going to wait for these scrubs to submit some sheets before I start the IC.

Speaking of which, thinking of adding another character. See how things go.

[DJAtomika]

Well, you have plenty of time. I'm going to wait for these scrubs to submit some sheets before I start the IC.

@Mr Allen J

I take offense to that XD

[Punished GN]

it tru tho

[AlteredTundra]

<Snipped quote by HHShetland>

Since I'm strongly against forcing length, the minimum is one paragraph. One

@Mr Allen J

I could be overstepping/wrong here, but isn't the bare minimum for Advanced somewhere along the lines of 2-3 paragraphs? A minimum of one seems to be a bit too casual for advanced, no?

In any case, expect my sheet to be up sometime late-Saturday, early to mid-Sunday.