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 Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 10:58 pm
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"CLASSIFICATION: The U.N. has nine levels of security above Top Secret. This manual and all material that is not otherwise marked is classified as Angel/0A. If you are not Angel/0A or above, report immediately to your supervisor or face disciplinary action. Other classifications will be explained upon reaching higher clearance.
In its efforts to combat terrorism, the U.N. has created UNATCO for the swift deployment of a COORDINATED FORCE to counteract any insurgent operations. You are justifiably proud to be part of this organization: your physical capabilities place you within the upper one percent of national ground combat units, while your mental capabilities have been honed to sharpness by the UNATCO Academy.
But as part of a larger organization, you also understand the necessity to HEED ORDERS from your superiors without hesitation; your superiors are typically briefed on matters for which you may not be cleared, and hesitation on the part of an agent can result in the serious IMPAIRMENT of mission objectives and attendant CASUALTIES.
UNATCO has faith in you, and this faith will be REWARDED in due time as your operational capacities are increased. Brave the darkness, for you carry the torch of freedom." - Deus Ex, UNATCO Handbook
File X0
Document X001 - Leviathan
Classified Angel/0A
The Leviathan Counterterrorism Unit ("Leviathan" or "LCU") is an organization, knowledge of which is Classified Angel/0A, which exists to combat terrorist threats across jurisdictions of U.N. member states. LCU's existence is not to be disclosed to anyone without Angel/0A clearance or higher.
Document X000 - Leviathan
Classified Principal/2C
Spirit Operations Unit Leviathan ("Leviathan" or "SOUL") is an organization, knowledge of which is Classified Angel/0A and the purpose of which is Classified Archangel/1B, which exists to combat threats presently deemed as "Supernatural." Refer to Document X100 for basic definitions, Document X101 for further details on the related threats, and Document X102 for how to control information flow to the public. SOUL's existence, as well as that of the threats it confronts, must be kept hidden from the public for their own safety. Patterns strongly suggest demons (X101-D) are strongly drawn to those who believe they exist but do not know their actual nature; while individuals in least developed countries, individuals of religious inclinations, and other demographics deemed "superstitious" in the 1998 studuy on demon possession statistics are all potential threats now, the number of candidates for possession would grow substantially if SOUL and its foes became publicly known.
Document X002 - Leviathan Clearances
Classified Seraphic/8X
Clearances:
Angel/0A
Archangel/1B
Principal/2C
Power/3D
Virtue/4E
Domination/5F
Throne/6G
Cherub/7H
Seraphic/8X
X002-A
Angel/0A personnel receive almost no information. The cooks, janitors, and other such staff members have no idea as to the nature of the SOUL program. The Leviathan Handbook distributed to personnel of Angel/0A personnel, who are part of Leviathan but do not participate in its "primary functions" (and who do not know the complete name, Spirit Operations Unit Leviathan), discloses only what is necessary for their job. All Angel/0A personnel are rigorously screened, wiretapped, and monitored. Any sign of superstition in an Angel/0A subject is treated as a threat of impending demonic possession, and they must be upgraded to Principal/2C or terminated immediately; should a demon (X101-D) possess someone within a SOUL Facility, the results would be catastrophic.
X002-B
Archangel/1B personnel ëõõK[X
... FILE DAMAGED ...
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E)¤ Š( Š( `6“Ž}kŽ¸wÒ~$Z8!mõ»V·'Òâ,²“îc-ÿ ~Åv]F+ƒø¦†ßÃö:¤`Óuk¢ìH
... REPAIRING ...
X002-B
Archangel/1B is no longer in use. See Reports [TITLES REDACTED] on the handling 1986 Kiev Demon Hunt for details.
X002-C
Principal/2C personnel are generally those in similar roles to the Angel/0A personnel but whose duties require them to know the nature of the program - they are mostly low-level administrators or upgraded Angel/0A personnel. Archangel/1B personnel may be trusted with debriefs, after action reports (AARs), and other material of a sensitive nature as defined in Document X102's information flow instructions.
X002-D
Power/3D personnel are SOUL's field operatives; Power/3D or higher clearance gives full access to the X1 series of threat assessment and information control reports, the X2 series of reports on Leviathan's arms and armor, the X3 series on capabilities gained through consumption of souls, and all historical and event analysis reports. Anyone who consumes a soul ("Illuminated") should have at least Power/3D clearance.
X002-E
Virtue/4E personnel are SOUL's Illuminated field officers; operate in a similar capacity to Power/3D personnel, but often have information about Leviathan's current operations that Power/3D personnel will not.
X002-F
Domination/5F personnel are, under no circumstances, Illuminated. The X1 and X3 series of reports provide sufficient details on why to demonstrate that Domination/5F clearance, which is tied to the decisions on how to go about pursuit of X1's described threats, is not to be trusted to anyone who may demonstrate Illuminated soul consumption addiction symptoms.
X002-G
Throne/6G personnelžžÊMã Yø¯E6’“os ^Òî> 1ÔÐ õ ™|±–¼†Tµ‘¢YâŽ
µÃüƒv:ƒ‚qô=ëÕWZƒÄ:ü$SÚ4òÃöo‰¬ãPÂzN£¹Só:Þƒ cc¨hèWé4wp«FZB6üÄüéê?Žj
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FILE END
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Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 11:03 pm
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File X1 - Threats
BLACK PHANTOM (Threat Grade TBD): Awaiting initial reports from San Lazaro SOUL Chapter Team 7
Further Information Not Yet Available; awaiting Supplemental Reports
File X2 - Leviathan Arms and Armaments
Document X201 - Melee Weaponry
Classified Power/3D
...
Crescent Bite / Crescent Claw - An unusual use of the "Crescent" series of enchantments, Niko (6659) has teeth and claws that have been augmented to function as Crescent knives. Neither are a very impressive weapon in human form but when in beast shape they can be deadly.
...
Crescent Knife - The "Crescent" series of enchantments imbue a weapon previously heavily enchanted for general increased potency to add a powerful magic-fueled rending effect; the Crescent enchantment allows a sufficiently powerful Wizard or Witch to apply the souls they use to empower their magic (but not those used to learn spells) to cause a small blade to part armor and flesh like paper. Crescent enchantment was traditionally performed in accordance with the lunar cycle but has since been found to be equally effective regardless of when it is carried out.
...
Electrum Whip -This non-SOUL sanctioned weapon is personally designed and created by Cress Farrar. There are several enchantments ensuring that the weapon cannot be destroyed as well as offensive uses as well. So far, it is known that the whip can pierce most armors and enchantments if it can wrap around either a person or weapon. If it reaches bare skin, it is able to electrocute its victim and slice through unaugmented flesh and bone.
...
Silent Restraint - Classified Throne/6G. See research teams or administrators to request clearance.
...
Document X202 - Small Arms
Classified Power/3D
...
HK USP-L - The USP-L is one of SOUL's in-house weapons; it's a modified HK USP (or an appropriate variant) with certain of its constructions modified; the firing mechanism is highly conducive to enchanting.
...
Heckler and Koch MP5 - The classic NATO submachine gun, used across the free world by anyone who needs close-quarters equipment. Leviathan MP5s are generally chambered for 10mm Auto, as smaller cartridges are unsuitable to the firepower needs of Leviathan.
...
Leviathan X6-S2 - An almost completely unique Leviathan production from just after the turn of the millennium, the S2 is a coilgun loaded with barbed flechettes for maximum stopping power. Its electricity consumption and expense of operation make it Leviathan-specific, but its efficiency against demons is unmatched. Generally, an X6-S2 will use its Burst Fire setting to fire volleys of three flechette blasts in rapid succession, but it is capable of full auto. The X6-S2 proved itself immediately in its first combat deployment, when fully automatic fire of magnetically accelerated barbed darts fired by an Illuminated soldier turned an overconfident demon into "Flesh Confetti" (See X6-S2-B for further details). The X6-S2 accepts box magaziness or specially-tooled drums or boxes with no need for adjustment. To date, according to one of the X6-S2's annual performance reviews, "There's nothing we've found that can take 18 hits from this and live. You put it in the hands of someone with the reflexes to keep it on target and it'll be bleeding on the floor if you can get the ******** in range."
ADDENDUM: Research teams, please quit adding notes about the X6-S2 to Document 302. --Administrator 3
...
Fabrique Nationale SCAR-H - Designed for American special forces operatives and appropriated by Leviathan, the SCAR-H fires 7.62x51mm NATO rounds from a 20-round magazine. Its high power and lightweight build make it the perfect weapon for Leviathan operators. There's a very rare drum-fed variant for individuals of exceptionally Augmented strength and reflexes; it is marginally more portable than an M60 (if only technically, accounting for the size of the drums), but the size of its drum and its cartridges combines to allow severe pain to be laid down on anything in its path.
...
Barrett M-82 - A semi-automatic sniper rifle chambered in .50 cal, the M-82 is popular with snipers who need to kill targets on the first shot at any distance. This is, understandably, a fairly good deal for Leviathan operators, as its ridiculous size and massive weight are offset by magical abilities. Firing it while not properly set up is still not recommended, though it isn't impossible.
...
...
Document X203 - Automatic Weaponry
Classified Power/3D
...
Leviathan Automatic Weapon - An adaptation of the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, the LAW is used for fully automatic suppression, an activity referred to as "Laying down the LAW." Relatively portable, but capable of laying down an impressive volume of fire; at the rate it fires, the 5.56x45mm NATO rounds are generally quite adequate.
...
M240-L - Need lots of firepower? Not planning to leave a vehicle? Leviathan's M240 variant, the M240-L, may be the tool for the task. Fed 7.62x51mm from a disintegrating belt, the M240-L is capable of destroying the defenses of an Augmented individual by simply hitting it very hard very quickly.
...
Document X204 - Heavy Weaponry and Support Weaponry
Classified Power/3D
...
Mk 19 Grenade Launcher - Because sometimes, whatever you're dealing with absolutely, positively needs to die. And when that is the case, you break out a vehicle with a Mk 19. A belt-fed 40mm grenade launcher, the Mk 19 is 72 pounds of fully automatic death, firing high explosive rounds that can punch through up to 2 inches of armor, killing within 5m and wounding within 15m. The only reason Levaithan doesn't deploy them at every chance is a combination of local police forces and the potential for collateral damage.
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Document X204 - Offense (Other)
Classified Power/3D
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Document X205 - Protective Equipment (Excerpt)
Classified Power/3D
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Shield Bracers - Enchanted arm guards that project a 3 foot x 5 foot shield (each) of solidified magic when activated. The shield will stop most attacks (including magic) until enough damage is done to 'break' it then must be recharged.
...
Umbrella - Created by Cress Farrar (0042). This non-SOUL sanctioned weapon was only allowed on missions after numerous attempts by SOUL personnel to pierce the enchantments surrounding it. As long as it is open and facing the direction of the incoming magic, the umbrella will deflect most spells.
...
Document X206 - Misc. Equipment (Excerpt)
Classified Power/3D
...
Fixed Teleportation Beacon (FTB) - A shining example of SOUL's technomancy, the FTB is a teleportation device linked to a digitally cataloged inventory which the device can materialize within a 15 foot radius by simply selecting the item from a GUI listed on a display resembling an iPad. At this time teleportation is not advisable for sentient beings as the process shuts down higher brain functions leaving the subject comatose in all tests. Modifications are in development to fix this issue. Suggest routing using [REDACTED].
...
File X3 - Illumination Knowledge Base
Document X301 - Augmentation
Classified Power/3D
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Soul Strike - As a result of the kill detailed in X901-5417-A, O’Byrne (5417) has an ability beyond basic Augmentation. O’Byrne is capable of focusing soul energy into his fists to deliver a blow that can focus upwards of 1000 pounds of force in a directed area. This directed force often applies over improbable areas, and as demonstrated during testing, is capable of knocking out up to a 10-m^2 area of drywall and wood supports.
...
Further Information Not Yet Available; awaiting Supplemental Reports
Document X302 - Enchanting
Classified Power/3D
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Cress Farrar (0042): Cress Farrar is able to perform a very large number of enchantments that are stronger than most other Illuminated. This is most likely due to the incident before his SOUL employment in which he consumed a possessed friend's soul and Demon Soul. Cress refuses to discuss the details of the incident. Inquiries are being made.
...
Document X303 - Witchcraft
Classified Power/3D
Crazy Eye - Subject 5150 has displayed the unnerving capability of siphoning another person’s sanity with a simple look. While not necessary, direct eye contact is the most efficient method. Physical touch could theoretically speed up the process. The process is rather fast, what took minutes for the subject to accomplish in the asylum now only takes several seconds. The loss of sanity can manifest itself in multiple ways, from a subtle loss of sanity to one’s worst fears realized. One of the most common manifestations is the inability to distinguish reality from thought. In all cases, the victim's ability to function is severely hampered. Subject 5150 appears to gain a temporary increase in sanity after crippling another’s mind.
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Transformation - Through a somewhat unorthodox use of Witchcraft resulting from the undocumented consumption of a demon soul (2 years prior to his recruitment into SOUL in year [REDACTED]), Niko has the ability to change physical aspects of his body - shapeshifting in short. The transformation is generally lupine in nature (hence 6659's code name) and may consist of minor modifications to individual parts (eyes for dark-vision, hands for claws, etc) or a complete transformation to a fully lupine (large wolf) form or a hybrid beast. Though he has come a long way with this ability is it still somewhat unpredictable and emotion driven, occasionally resulting in unintentional transformation and/or getting 'stuck' in a transformation or with transformation features for a period of time. His eyes have been stuck at a wolfish yellow since his first transformation only shifting to red when the more aggressive personality takes over.
Document X304 - Wizardry
Classified Power/3D
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Heat Sink - Having defeated (See: utterly broken) a Demon-possessed individual and reflected on the encounter, Jake Uso came to understand the manner in which some soul-fueled assaults are produced- and more importantly how to absorb them for later reuse. Fire, electricity, and even extreme heat and related energies are all virtually ineffective assuming he is ready to claim them. Holding onto them costs soul power, meaning the sooner he discharges the raw energy the better.
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Soul Siphon - Cress Farrar is able to remove the souls of his own and others' enchantments, rendering them useless and increasing his own store of power. This is most likely due to the incident before his SOUL employment in which he consumed a possessed friend's soul and Demon Soul. Cress refuses to discuss the details of the incident. Inquiries are being made.
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Silence - "Killswitch" Lynch, after consuming the Demon Soul from a non-SOUL Witchcraft user who became possessed, entered a long period of meditation. At its conclusion, she had mastered one of the strange and unique demon-derived magic forms. Her report on the spell is that her meditation on and study of the Demon Soul gained her an intuitive understanding of how tapping into the power of souls for casting works. She claims that Silence works by creating an "Anti-Magic Field" counteracting the ability to cast within it; notably, it does not prevent spells cast outside from functioning within, nor does it prevent enchantments from functioning.
...
Further Information Not Yet Available; awaiting Supplemental Reports
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Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 11:08 pm
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File X6 - Research Teams' Internal File
X6 Series Unofficial Document - An Informal Examination of the State of Affairs.
Classified Throne/6G
The world appears, on the surface, to be more or less mundane. People are, as they have been, afraid of the dark. They know, as a whole, that something is amiss, but they do not know what or why.
SOUL focuses on the use of Illuminated in a policing function; their purpose is to defeat and consume free spirits, slay or recruit unaffiliated Illuminated, and eliminate demons before they can become an issue. The importance of the last is highlighted by the Chernobyl report, particularly its casualty appendix.
Most Power/3D and Virtue/4E members of the SOUL program are picked up after discovering how to consume souls on their own (desperate junkies who kill someone while trying to pick up their next fix are a distressingly frequent source of recruits; they're infamously unreliable but Illuminated are a scarce resource), though a few are sought out to be recruited into it. ACtive recruiting is most often for Virtue/4E and Domination/5F officers.
Any person who kills another may spontaneously gain the ability to take the souls of their kills; factors that make it more likely include an inclination towards violence, propensity for addiction, being an addict for something (caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco being the most common things), desire for power, and the like, though that's a statement of odds, not of absolutes; a 100% sober virgin who kills in self-defense when attacked can also devour a victim's soul.
Once people are Illuminated, they're almost always going to kill again; it's inherent to how the process changes them. At the start, it makes them stronger, makes them faster, and improves their reflexes. Soon, the more drastic alterations occur.
Magic, though extensively covered in the X3 document series, will be discussed briefly here. It tends to fall into a few particular categories of use. Generally, how one learns to cast magic determines which two of three elements are in play from the choices of Ease of Learning/Use, Power, and Safety.
-Wizardry (Power, Safety): Understanding the nature of the power gained from consuming a soul is a difficult task; it requires study, and is by far the rarest form of magic to find among non-sanctioned (non-government) Illuminated. Whenever practitioners of Wizardry are found, SOUL seeks to recruit them. Users of Wizardry have already demonstrated uncommon patience in regards to the use of souls, and are much less likely to be the type who exhibit irrational behavior in search of opportunities to kill things for their souls.
-Augmentation (Ease of Use, Safety): Though it initially seems weak, almost all Illuminated make some degree of use of the Augmentation magics. An art as simple as channeling the power of the consumed souls into the appropriate parts of the body as needed. Basic Augmentation can let a 95-pound, 5-foot tall girl break a bone with a glancing strike, outrun a bicyclist, or stop a knife with bare skin. Advanced Augmentation can grant the strength to throw a bus, the speed to outrun a car, the ability to take a .50 cal bullet without flinching, the visual acuity to identify someone's face from literally miles away, or the ability to function as a human computer or a brilliant tactician by augmenting brain processes. Masters of Augmentation become veritable walking tanks, weak only in their inability to prevent other magics from affecting them and to surprise attacks that hit before they can harden their skin. It's considered in the traditional paradigm to sacrifice power in that it takes more soul consumption to be able to inflict equivalent damage to the more overt forms of magic.
-Witchcraft (Ease of Use, Power. Uh oh.): Witchcraft is the most common form of spellcasting and the second most common form of magic after Augmentation (which almost any soul eater can use to some degree). Witchcraft is spell-slinging. It consists of gathering the power gained from your consumed souls and, guided by an emotional impulse, bludgeoning reality with it until reality caves in the way you want it to. Witchcraft is magic unrestrained; when you need rain of fire from the sky, a blast of ice to freeze an entire room, or the ability to rip someone's soul from their body without killing them first, Witchcraft is the answer. The price of this is in safety. Witchcraft is prone to unpredictable behavior in unskilled hands (the storm of fire you called might just hit you). Witchcraft is hard to control (see above). Worst of all, Witchcraft is likely to attract the attention of demons and free spirits.
Enchanting (The whole package): Enchanting is safe, not especially hard to do, and powerful. However, its limitations are fairly obvious in that it requires a permanent investment of part of one's consumed souls in the enchanted equipment. A blade with supernatural hardness and sharpness or a firearm that fires magic bolts instead of bullets are excellent weapons in any hands, and any non-Illuminated members of a squad will often have weapons enchanted by others; Domination/5F personnel must balance this with instructions not to kill lest they undergo Illumination (or waste the associated souls). Wizardry can be used to temporarily imbue weapons with further power, and Witchcraft can use the dark magic of cursing a weapon, causing it to inflict small injuries on its users in exchange for inflicting incredible wounds upon its targets.
The primary users of the soul arts are:
Humans. A fair number of humans, especially in gangs or crime rings, end up consuming a soul sooner or later. A fair number of practitioners of Witchcraft exist in most organized crime syndicates; some even have Wizards among their ranks. Almost as frequent are serial killers, individuals who get a taste of the power of souls one way or another and can't do without more. Illuminated Humans are a fairly low-level threat, but common. SOUL needs to ensure that none of them last long enough to become a major threat.
Free Spirits. The generally accepted theory is that, when a non-Illuminated person kills an Illuminated human or a demon, the souls consumed by the slain being "Reconstitute" and break free, becoming free spirits. Free spirits can be or do almost anything imaginable. Only rarely are they threats, and even more rarely are they soul-eaters, but when a free spirit of fire ends up in a metropolitan area, SOUL does what it has to. They are drawn to magic use.
Demons. Rumored (without evidence) to be the ones who taught the first humans how to consume their fellows' souls (Illuminated them, so to speak), demons are uniformly malevolent beings. Every single instance indicating otherwise has turned out to either be false or to be an unusually intelligent free spirit. Demons can possess individuals who believe in them without understanding them; from there, they will likely either fulfill their thirst for souls or move on to attempting to manifest another demon, whereupon it will end its possession and the second demon will then manifest the first. Any instance of a possession or a fully-manifested demon is treated as a major emergency by SOUL. Every demon is highly skilled in all forms of magic and is easily a match for five to ten SOUL operatives, depending on the particular demon and whether it's a possession or a full manifestation. If a demon is manifested, SOUL will pull in at least thirty members for the upcoming action, with an expectation of three members out of every four to be wounded, and about two out of every three members of the whole operation to be slain.
Though soul consumption gives the eater greater access to magic talent, which they can use to cast spells or to augment themselves, their weapons, or their gear, as well as for astral perception, it also takes a twofold toll. The first cost is that they lose touch with their humanity over time, as could be expected. The second cost is that eating a soul is "like biting into the most succulent possible steak, chewing the most perfectly-textured and perfectly-flavored cookie possible, finishing the best possible lay, petting the fluffiest possible cat, and taking every drug in existence, all at the same time." It replaces the ability to truly enjoy anything else in life for most users.
As a final note, the Throne/6G Research Team 5 believes it may be nearing a breakthrough in understanding the power of Illuminated Souls and Demon Souls in the learning of unusual, powerful magics (such as Witchcraft's infamous "Firestorm").
[Administrative Addendum: The author's notes of http://www.gunnerkrigg.com/archive_page.php?comicID=373 are not to be used to explain to people the mechanisms of magic. It may be accurate to do so, but it isn't helpful.]
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Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 11:09 pm
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File X9 - Leviathan Profiles
Document X900
Classified Seraph/8X
SOUL tracks person-profile conformity with Synchronization Points; one SP is awarded any time an individual performs poorly in a task at which they are expected to perform poorly, and one SP is consumed for an individual to perform particularly well in a task that is within their areas of expertise. SPs should be awarded and spent often; for instance, Virtue/4E-level operative Lisa "Killswitch" Lynch should receive several SP any time she attempts to negotiate, and spend several of them in accordance with her exceptional combat capabilities any time she fights. Low rates of SP turnover may indicate inaccuracies in the profile and should be addressed as soon as detected.
Generally, SP flow will be marked in accordance with particular relevant aspects. All profiles will label a character with 3 aspects: Defining Character Aspect, Illumination Status, and Role in Leviathan. Some profiles may elect to express Role in Leviathan with an appropriate Codename. These may include such things as Elizabeth Lynch's codename of "Killswitch," reflecting her specialty within SOUL. Codenames or role descriptions reflecting their position within their squads are also acceptable. Additionally, they may be given a Leitmotif which communicates the "feel" of the subject. A relevant name or relevant lyrics are also nice, but unnecessary. The mood of the music is the most important part. This is, of course, optional, though encouraged.
After this, the growing-in-popularity tableau will be used:
Quote: ... a frozen image of your character that manages to capture all the intricacies of who they are. It should manage to include: physical description, preferred weapons, dominant personality traits, primary interests, and anything else that flavors your character. Be imaginative and utilize the beauty of the English language to flesh out your character in this one brief glimpse. I want you to paint me a picture of your character with words.
X900-A: For more on Defining Character Aspects, consult the example
http://stuffershack.com/playing-with-fate-your-defining-aspect/
X900-B: Killswitch has gone rogue. I know we're all covering the s**t that's going down with her whole team defecting when they got sent on a ******** demon hunt, but can someone go replace her example with someone else in the X9 series examples soon? --Administrator 8
X900-C: We'll deal with that after we have this ******** situation under control. Now's not the time. --Administrator 11
Document X901
Classified Seraph/8X
All profiles on SOUL units are expected to be in the following format:
[b]Document X901-####[/b]
[i]Classified Seraph/8X[/i]
[b]Name[/b]:
[b]Defining Character Aspect[/b]: Aspect
[b]Illumination Status[/b]: Aspect and Relevant Information
[b]Role in Leviathan[/b]: Aspect and Relevant Information
[b]Leitmotif[/b]:
[b]Tableau[/b]:
Also attached should be the X2 and X3 files about their equipment and magic.
Document X901-A
Classified Seraph/8X
This is a sample profile, that of Elizabeth "Killswitch" Lynch.
ADDENDUM: It is important to note that these may not be up-to-date considering the defection of Killswitch and her team while hunting a demon. That they would turn at such a time does not bode well.
(Document X901-4196
Classified Seraph/8x)
Administrator 14 Name: Elizabeth Lynch Defining Character Aspect: Woman Wizard Who Watches the Watchmen Illumination Status: Starved Expert Wizard. Lynch's exceptional self-control led to her only rarely receiving kills; the threat of being the next to sate her hunger was used as a deterrent against defectors. Role in Leviathan: "Killswitch." Lynch was used against rogue agents whenever an agent made it necessary. She was, essentially, SOUL's killswitch: When they needed an Illuminated traitor dead, Lynch was set to the task. Leitmotif: The Glitch Mob - " Fistful of Silence" Tableau: Elizabeth Lynch tried her best to focus on the battle and not the hunger as she brought her knife around, parrying the witch's flaming blade. She raised a pale hand and thrust it at him. It was a simple kinetic force projection, but if there was one thing Lynch wasn't lacking, it was the ability to put metric tonnes of juice into even the simplest spell. The shockwave launched the traitor off his feet and slammed him against the wall. She drew her knife back and swung. He blocked. Lynch had been counting on it. The power of the souls within her, the same power that wove her Wizardry, flowed forth into the blade. As the dagger clashed against the Dragon Sword, it erupted with force, shattering the sword and sending fragments of steel into the witch's face. The screaming witch reached inside for his magic - and found nothing. The last thing he saw was haunted green eyes in a gaunt face behind black hair, staring into his soul before their owner took it. As the release of magic from the dagger disintegrated half the witch's torso, Lynch doubled over, convulsing with pleasure. It never got weaker, how it felt. If anything, she would have thought if she were capable of it at the time, it got stronger every time. Each soul eaten, she would have reflected, was a taste of temptation itself. But she could not think, not in this state, not while feeling like this. When next Lynch became aware of her environment, she was on the ground of the alley where she'd stabbed him. She tried to haul herself to her feet, failed. It was too much to take, she thought, empty tears streaming from her face. She'd thought it every day for years. Every day she felt hollow, like a pumpkin with its insides scooped out, waiting to be assigned a face. Some days she couldn't get out of bed. Others, she couldn't sleep. None of it really mattered. Ever since her Illumination, she hadn't really needed anything but to sate the hunger for souls. And as she lay curled on the bloody pavement, beside the upper and lower two thirds of a corpse, all she could think about was how long it would be until the next poor b*****d, some hapless SOUL draftee who felt just like she did, couldn't take it any more, and she would be allowed to eat again. Document X202 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DHK USP-L - The USP-L is one of SOUL's in-house weapons; it's a modified HK USP (or an appropriate variant) with certain of its constructions modified; the firing mechanism is highly conducive to enchanting. Document X201 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DCrescent Knife - The "Crescent" series of enchantments imbue a weapon previously heavily enchanted for general increased potency to add a powerful magic-fueled rending effect; the Crescent enchantment allows a sufficiently powerful Wizard or Witch to apply the souls they use to empower their magic (but not those used to learn spells) to cause a small blade to part armor and flesh like paper. Crescent enchantment was traditionally performed in accordance with the lunar cycle but has since been found to be equally effective regardless of when it is carried out. Document X304 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DWizardry > Silence - Lynch, after consuming the Demon Soul from a non-SOUL Witchcraft user who became possessed, entered a long period of meditation. At its conclusion, she had mastered one of the strange and unique demon-derived magic forms. Her report on the spell is that her meditation on and study of the Demon Soul gained her an intuitive understanding of how tapping into the power of souls for casting works. She claims that Silence works by creating an "Anti-Magic Field" counteracting the ability to cast within it; notably, it does not prevent spells cast outside from functioning within, nor does it prevent enchantments from functioning.
SirBayer Document X901-5417 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Eamon O’Byrne Defining Character Aspect: Half Drunk, Half Belligerent, All Irish Illumination Status: Conservative Augmentation User - O’Byrne insists on avoiding making kills, trying to restrict his own soul consumption to avoid heavy addiction. Role in Leviathan: Fireteam Leader - O’Byrne is oddly assigned to a position of responsibility for recognition of the negative effects of soul consumption, despite frequent questionable judgement. Leitmotif: Dropkick Murphys - " Shipping Up To Boston" Tableau: Document X901-5417-AClassified Domination/5FIn reading this report and viewing the associated video clips, viewers are to note that O’Byrne is the tall Caucasian male with red hair and unshaven face. He may also be identified by his relatively sharp facial features. He is seen operating a Colt M1911 and using augmentation magic. It is to be noted O’Byrne has been repeatedly court martialed for inappropriate conduct, often associated with alcohol. 22:25:15: O’Byrne and Delta arrive at [REDACTED]. 22:25:41: O’Byrne identifies demon manifestation and begins process of locking down area. 22:26:15: Delta is observed by Charlie to be acting irregularly. Delta members appear to be near conflict. 22:27:32: O’Byrne controls outburst by incapacitating troublemaker. Possessed individual exits Starbucks and destroys nearby vehicle. 22:27:58: Delta engages demon. Immediate casualties. 22:28:12: Charlie moves in to back Delta up. O’Byrne confronts demon directly. 22:28:23: O’Byrne is observed to be demanding Alpha and Beta become directly involved. 22:28:26: Delta forces demon back into coffee shop. 22:28:30: Charlie and Delta enter coffee shop. 22:45:00: O’Byrne exits coffee shop alone. O’Byrne is at this point covered in blood and carrying a broken glass bottle. He is observed to be swearing loudly at Beta leader. 22:45:18: Beta leader attempts to restrain O’Byrne. 22:45:43: O’Byrne is observed calling Beta leader a “massive ********,” and a disgrace to civilized people. 22:46:22: O’Byrne overpowers Beta leader and gets into Delta’s vehicle. 22:46:26: O’Byrne crashes Delta’s vehicle. 22:46:51: O’Byrne exits totalled vehicle and stumbles down street. All teams lose contact with O’Byrne. At this point he is considered AWOL. 09:19:27: O’Byrne is located by SOUL operators, carrying a flat tire, an industrial staple gun, and a potato. He is returned to base without further incident. ADDENDUM: O’Byrne’s account of what occurred within the coffee shop is unclear and does not match with reports from Alpha and Beta. No other survivors within the building exist. O’Byrne himself insists both Alpha and Beta were negligent in duties. No court martial has been held for either party. Attached is X901-5417-B, a transcript of O’Byrne’s personal recounting of the event. Interrogator is [REDACTED]. Classified Domination/5FO’Byrne and the interrogator sit down at the table. O’Byrne seems slightly unfocused, as he is presumably slightly drunk. He is not in full uniform, as is expected; instead, he wears the uniform shirt unbuttoned over a white t-shirt and jeans, along with a knee-length jacket. Interrogator begins session. “You arrived on site [REDACTED] at about 2225 hours, correct?” “Aye. Alpha and Beta were already in position. Charlie was just waiting on us to breach.” Interrogator continues. “There was some disturbance in Delta at this point in time.” O’Byrne nods. He is leaning back in his chair so that the chair stands on two legs. “Aye. [REDACTED] was getting a bit too worked up about the whole thing. He and [REDACTED] started arguing about who was going to finish the job. I only got involved when [REDACTED] went for [REDACTED] full-out. Knocked him out and got set up to finish the job.” O’Byrne seems to remember this vividly and grins slightly. “At this point, the demon came to you, correct?” Interrogator seems nonplussed by O’Byrne’s attitude. “Well it wasn’t going to sit in there all day, y’know? Bursts from the Starbucks like it’s ‘roid raging, tosses a Prius across the road.” O’Byrne flips his arms up to demonstrate. He nearly falls over in his chair. “We did the smart thing and just hit it right there. Charlie doesn’t consist entirely of shitheads so they move in too. As soon as the car goes over it’s obvious we’re in over our heads already, there’s four of us in this fireteam. Two, actually, since [REDACTED] already went down like a b***h when I hit him and the demon popped [REDACTED] with its fist first thing.” O’Byrne shakes his head slightly. Interrogator seems disturbed by the nonchalant description. “You engaged the demon directly at this point?” O’Byrne shrugs. “Well it was kinda on top of me, y’know? Charlie kept it busy and I punched it. Got it back into the shop, been calling Alpha and Beta over for the last God knows how long, and they’re just standing there slackjawed like they’ve never seen a demon before. We chased it in because we had a job to finish.” “What happened in there?” O’Byrne is seen to darken. “It was like... well, it was like putting a potato in a microwave without popping the skin. Except instead of potato, people. We lost [REDACTED] right off, got shot I think, so it’s me and Charlie dancin’ with this thing. I don’t remember half of it, honestly,” O’Byrne notes, sitting back down properly and folding his arms. “It got real intense, and someone lit a fire, and I couldn’t see what I was fighting half the time. All I know for sure is an arm hit me somewhere in the melee, and I ended up killing the damn thing with a broken whiskey bottle.” “You killed it with a whiskey bottle?” “Well, I was out of ammo and I’d already emptied it.” O’Byrne shrugs. “As best I can remember, we all shot it up good, then someone tried to burn it out, which didn’t seem to do much, so I ended up knocking it into a counter and jamming the longest bit of broken glass in its eye. All I know is we lost a lot of people and we could’ve saved some lives if [REDACTED] had done his goddamn job and got in there.” “[REDACTED] says you engaged the demon without proper preparation and that he and the rest of Alpha could not engage without bringing harm to friendlies.” “Well frankly that’s horseshit,” O’Byrne snaps, sitting up. “He had plenty of opportunity to put himself and his men where they needed to be before the fire broke out and he didn’t. He’s why [REDACTED] didn’t make it. He’s why there’s two left of Delta.” “It says here there was a confrontation with Beta following the defeat of the demon,” the interrogator continues. O’Byrne seems to grow even more angry. “Well no s**t. I’ve downed a bottle of whiskey during the fight and Beta’s leader is an a*****e who can’t be bothered to engage either. I don’t do kills, you know that, and here I am forced to finish a demon by two idiots who can’t be assed to do their jobs, and when I do their jobs they get mad at me.” O’Byrne leans back in his seat. “We’re getting off subject,” the Interrogator announces. “Like hell we are!” O’Byrne abruptly stands up. The Interrogator begins attempting to interrupt him unsuccessfully. “Those two left us high and dry. Those two directly cost us six men. Six completely unnecessary sacrifices. This is my account, right? You brought me in here to tell you what I think happened in there? I think some uptight by-the-book morons sat on their hands and refused to engage a demon, then tried to blame me for attacking when I had literally no other choice. If that’s not what this interview is about, consider it over.” O’Byrne stands, throws his chair across the room, draws a hip flask from his jacket, and leaves. END OF VIDEO No X2 Document necessary.O’Byrne carries no notable equipment. He tends to go into combat with no more than his personal M1911 and a hip flask. Docutment X301 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DAs a result of the kill detailed in X901-5417-A, O’Byrne has an ability beyond basic Augmentation. O’Byrne is capable of focusing soul energy into his fists to deliver a blow that can focus upwards of 1000 pounds of force in a directed area. This directed force often applies over improbable areas, and as demonstrated during testing, is capable of knocking out up to a 10-m^2 area of drywall and wood supports.
Mr. Blackbird Lore Document X901-1234Classified Seraph/8XName: Jake Uso Defining Character Aspect: Premed Dropout Seeking Revelations Through Combat Illumination Status: FNG. Jake earned his abilities amidst rage-induced revenge. Since, he has continued to wage war with anyone willing, fleeing from his problems and venting his young frustrations on anyone that'll throw punches with him. He does not seek a kill, however, only revelation. He hasn't found it yet. Role in Leviathan: Raw Talent Rookie. He was picked up off the street after his second kill and is being taught to hone his focus and control his temper- without much success. Leitmotif: IndestructibleTableau: There are at least 50 people crammed into some dingy basement in some shitty derelict apartment in some miserable part of some woeful city. They're making a clamor: shouting, jeering, cheering, and filling the small space with more excitement than it was ever meant to contain. In one small corner, a man hunches over his laptop and audio peripherals. Speakers in all four corners are blaring a classic piece of the latest century's metal: Machine Head's "White Knuckle Blackout." The place reeks of body odors: sweat, urine, blood. It only adds to the claustrophobic feeling. In a rectangle crudely defined by the flowing mass of bodies are two more young and reckless types: fighters. One of them is blond, an inch shy of six feet tall, and a collegiate linebacker. The other is a scrawny, lanky, five-foot-six, black-haired college dropout named Jake Uso, twenty-year old son of Japanese Takashi Uso and American Emily Fox. Only Jake is throwing punches, his opponent taking every single hit with all the grace of a drunken ape. The reality is the poor sap sucking up punches is already unconscious, but his assailant hasn't given his body time to hit the floor. Blood flies with every blow to the face, and organs bruise with every shot to the gut. How Jake is able to muster such force from his small frame is anyone's guess, but it sure puts on one hell of a show. Just as the conflict is reaching its climax, that moment when life and death are decided, the sound of crashing and splintering wood is heard. It's not hard to determine the cause. "COPS!" "RAID!" Both exits are stampeded, and many are pushed to the floor. Fight clubbing is certainly a spectator sport. Jake Uso doesn't care. He waits. His opponent stumbles around, stupefied, beaten silly. His face is a mass of all the wrong colors: reds, blues, purples. He mumbles something incoherent, but Jake has heard many speak that gushing, fumbling language. He guesses the boy meant to say, "So ********," as in: "We're so ******** now because the cops are here to bust us." Jake doesn't care. Only once everyone but the fighters have evacuated do the suits roll in. Jake's opponent determines this to be the best time to collapse; he crumples to the floor unconscious but breathing, albeit raggedly. It's clear at first glance these suits aren't cops. They have to be feds or something special, like HomeSec or CIA. Jake may be a punch-drunk street fighter, but he's no idiot either: his father wanted him to be a doctor. He would probably still be in med school too if it weren't for... "Mr. Uso, we're to take you someplace safe," announced the Expensive Suit (clearly Italian in design, judging by the shoes). "Get shafted." Jake doesn't hate these four men, but he doesn't much like them either. They're in his way, blocking his path to self-discovery. The ring is where he finds himself- or the alleys and bars, if the night is right. Fighting makes him feel alive and these men want to take it from him. Well it's a bad time to pick a fight with him: he's charged.Unbeknownst to the novice, so are they. "We'd rather not resort to force, but will if we must." Calm, cool, collected. Just like the movies. Jake drops into a boxing stance. His shirtless form is drenched in sweat- most of it his own- and yet he seems to have plenty of energy to go a round with all four feds. With speed and agility Jake could not have predicted, one suit lunged across the three-yard gap and let loose with a barrage of left jabs that would make Muhammad Ali cringe. Jake blocked what couldn't be avoided, and what he felt- or rather didn't feel- worried him. There were no breaking bones, no cry of pain, even though the brawler was funneling his 'charge.' When there came a lull, the half-Japanese boy retaliated with his own flurry of fists. He took every hit with a grin, which was ultimately the reason Jake stopped; it was creeping him out. If he could take that pummeling, Jake was screwed. Even with this knowledge, he refused to back down. It didn't matter. Another snuck up behind him, kicking out a knee before rapping him on the side of the head. It looked like such a soft blow, but it probably would have shattered someone else's skull. Then everything went black. Jake's last thought was revenge. No X2 File necessaryDocument X301Classified Power/3DAugmentation > Subject 1234 has displayed the ability to augment his own physical resistances several fold, making him impervious to attacks lacking sufficient force- anything short of a bullet is unlikely to penetrate his defenses so long as he is aware of the attack. Compare to Shaolin Monk trainings in the Martial Arts Dossier. Striking resemblance. With enough energy, it is likely he could very well become a human "Immovable Object." More testing and training is required on that particular application. Augmentation > Subject 1234 has also displayed the ability to increase metabolic rate and manipulate other chemical releases, primarily for healing though other applications may come to terms with time and training. Time in med school may be a factor here- and a great asset. Again, more testing is suggested. Wizardry > Heat Sink - Having defeated (See: utterly broken) a Demon-possessed individual and reflected on the encounter, Jake Uso came to understand the manner in which some soul-fueled assaults are produced- and more importantly how to absorb them for later reuse. Fire, electricity, and even extreme heat and related energies are all virtually ineffective assuming he is ready to claim them. Holding onto them costs soul power, meaning the sooner he discharges the raw energy the better.
Arthuritis592 Document X901-0042 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Cress Farrar Defining Character Aspect: Nothing's Free, Especially Me Illumination Status: Hungry Hungry Enchanter // 'Vegetarian' Wizard // A rare example of Illuminated who does not use any offensive magic // Requires an enormous amount of souls to survive most direct encounters Role in Leviathan: Soulsmith // Enchants most of the team's equipment in some way or another for a price // Disables non-SOUL enchantments Leitmotif: Money Talks - AC/DC Tableau: Observation of suspected wizard Cress Farrar begins [REDACTED]. Day one of observation leads agents [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] through most of downtown Manhattan's shopping districts. Subject returns home with nearly [REDACTED] worth of clothing and accessories. After bringing the bags inside, Subject returns to the entrance of the flat and gestures to both agents to come inside. Their ensuing conversation was recorded and included in this file: Subject: So I take it that I haven't suddenly incurred stalkers—though I do look the type do I not? [Redacted]: What do you mean, stalkers? Subject: Don't toy with me. I attached those price tags to you to track you as soon as I saw your little friend here watch me with that adorable little dumbstruck expression of his when I was trying on those sexy pumps in--(audio cuts out) (Yelling overheard in between audio black outs) Subject: I, suggest, if you ever expect me to do anything for whoever you work for that he keeps his foul little bigoted mouth shut. Am I clear? End of recording. Agent [REDACTED] demoted and chastised for the potential loss of the asset. Agent [REDACTED] reassigned to take his place. Agents meet with the Subject in [REDACTED] at the Subject's insistence. Subject also requested that the agents pay for the meal. This request was approved. Camera hacked and used to survey their conversation as well as audio recording. Subject's long dark brown hair was spiked into a long and pointed style. Each spike ended with bubblegum pink tips which vastly clashed with the formal suit—though the pink tie threaded with darker and lighter shades matched nicely. He had several jeweled rings on his fingers and gold bracelets. He wore mascara and dark eyeshadow that accentuated his smoky gray eyes. He wore no lipstick but his whole face... glittered. He was leaning back in the expensive Italian chair with his feet crossed at the ankles upon the table and regarding the agents over his clasped hands with an air of amusement—a half smile glinting on his face. Subject: So I see my good friend was replaced. That's too bad, he was a cutie. Don't worry sweetheart, I'm sure you'll do just fine. I like your blouse where did you get it? [REDACTED]: Why don't we just stay on topic Mr. Farrar. Subject: Mister! Ha! [REDACTED]: I'm sorry, is it Miss...? (Recording edited to save time. Subject's laughter lasted a good five minutes, much to the chagrin of the other patrons) Subject: I like you. That was great. So back to business. [REDACTED]: Yes... Thank you. We work for an organization-- Subject: Stop, stop, stop. I don't care who you work for. How much are you offering? [REDACTED]: O-offering? Subject: Yes, you know, payment. I really hope I will be working with you in the future. I think I may be able to convince you to pay me a little more than some of your bosses, if you know what I mean. [REDACTED]: That's... How could... I have been given leave to offer you [REDACTED]. Subject: Double it. [REDACTED]: WHAT? That is an extremely generous offer I assure you. Most agents do not even make close-- Subject: I am not most agents. Double it. As a second condition, I reserve the right to charge extra on a case by case basis for my special talents. Now, shall we dig in? Subject's request was grudgingly approved. Document X201 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DElectrum Whip—This non-SOUL sanctioned weapon is personally designed and created by Cress Farrar. There are several enchantments ensuring that the weapon cannot be destroyed as well as offensive uses as well. So far, it is known that the whip can pierce most armors and enchantments if it can wrap around either a person or weapon. If it reaches bare skin, it is able to electrocute its victim and slice through unaugmented flesh and bone. Document X204 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DUmbrella—This non-SOUL sanctioned weapon was only allowed on missions after numerous attempts by SOUL personnel to pierce the enchantments surrounding it. As long as it is open and facing the direction of the incoming magic, the umbrella will deflect most spells. Document X302 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3D(See X201 and X204 documents for more information) Cress is able to perform a very large number of enchantments that are stronger than most other Illuminated. This is most likely due to the incident before his SOUL employment in which he consumed a possessed friend's soul and Demon Soul. Cress refuses to discuss the details of the incident. Inquiries are being made. Document X304 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DSoul Siphon—Cress is able to remove the souls of his own and others' enchantments, rendering them useless and increasing his own store of power. This is most likely due to the incident before his SOUL employment in which he consumed a possessed friend's soul and Demon Soul. Cress refuses to discuss the details of the incident. Inquiries are being made.
Ivaylo_Sai Document X901-6659Classified Seraph/8X Name: Nikoli Bedier / William Reiley Defining Character Aspect: This wolf might be collared but he's still got fangs. Illumination Status: Illuminated at a young age Niko spent most of his adolescence fighting the addiction, often turning to chemical substances to fill the gap but occasionally making a kill for it. Cleverness, luck, base skill at Augmentation, and a talent for general Witchcraft (spell slinging), but mostly caution allowed him to survive on the streets undetected by SOUL or other authorities for several years. Then an unfortunate and unlikely encounter with a heavily injured demon kicked his mild addiction into an insatiable bloodlust when, by a fluke of sheer luck, he managed to kill the demon and consume it's soul, thus gaining the Demoncraft Transformation ability. Niko managed through caution and more dumb luck to survive another few years in the shadows and wilderness, hiding from all authority as he 'hunted' to sate his out of control addiction. Until SOUL caught up with him. Now he battles with the addiction, trying not to kill but often slipping. Role in Leviathan: Power/3D, 'Bad Dog' - An expert tracker and scout, Niko is (on his good days) the forerunner of SOUL's front line. When reports come in of suspect activity he's sent to sniff them out and report findings for deployment of larger teams then stays with the target until backup arrives. On his bad days William is a borderline rogue that will shoot first and ask questions later often costing collateral damage just for a fix. Leitmotif: Johnny Cash - HurtTableau: Document X901-6659-AClassified Throne/6GExcerpt video of subject 6659 debriefing after [REDACTED] incident showing unstable mental condition. Analysis report found in Document X901-3571-A. The clip cut off a question from the beginning so the first sounds were a few sonorous notes of some old romantic piano etude. The vinyl record scratched softly adding a white noise to the piece as it played on an antique Victrola in the corner of the richly furnished office. "I didn't mean to," a tense young man muttered a weak answer to the question not included in the clip. His uniform was complete though wrinkled and his hair seemed a series of cowlicks as he fidgeted slightly in the chair of the book-lined office. "You know that isn't a valid excuse,” the woman sitting behind the desk across from him chided softly. Her suit was immaculate and of a designer cut - obviously not uniform. Her long blond curls piled high in a french twist, the ends of it draping down the sides to frame a perfectly painted face. "I know. But it's all I've got," the man grumbled slightly as he stared down at his hands, twisting together in his lap. "Niko," the woman called him out to catch his gaze before continuing, "This is your third instance of excessive force in the last month. You can't keep killing your targets." "I -know- I just. . ." he trailed off with a frustrated sound. "You don't understand" the man's voice dropped to a growl and his posture became aggressive as his golden eyes shaded to red, "All you've done is read about it and shrink heads," he sneered. "You've never even killed a man, let alone ate his soul." "William," the woman's gentle voice turned firm, "I was speaking to Nikoli." "I wasn't giving a f-" he choked on the word and doubled over with a pained hiss. The woman watched impassively with just a subtle wrinkle to her brow as the man struggled with himself. After a few long moments he let out a ragged gasp and looked back up at her with trembling yellow eyes. "H-he's getting stronger." "He is only as strong as you allow him to be," the woman shook her head patiently, her voice soft and gentle again. "He is a part of you, Niko, a coping mechanism, not a demon. They've run the tests. You know you would not be here if you were possessed." "I wish I was." "You don't mean that." "I do," the man hissed, gripping shaggy black hair in shaking hands. "You - you really don't understand. This-" he pulled his hands down and held them up to show her their chronic tremble, "this is hell." "Calm, Niko, calm" the woman spoke softly drawing out her words to a gentle coo and waiting for her patient to settle before continuing. "This is manageable. That is why you are here." The man closed his eyes and looked away a bit shamefully but he was calm as he leaned back in the chair with a tired sigh. "I know," he muttered, "But your pills aren't working, Doc. Only thing that helps is when they let me at a soul and there aren't enough of those to go around." "We just haven't found the right balance yet," the woman said it with a clinical confidence, ignoring the man's frustrated look as she shuffled through her clipboard and jotted a note on the papers. "I am going to adjust your medication,” she looked back up, holding out a prescription sheet. "You need to work on your anger management exercises. You are a good scout and excellent tracker. It would be a shame if the higher ups were to retire you," she said the last with an almost threatening emphasis. The man twitched at the implications then took the paper with a slight nod. The woman waited, briefly, for him to comment or question but he did neither so she continued, looking back over her notes before asking almost casually, "Now, how's the sleeping?" END OF CLIP Document X201 - (Excerpt) Classified Power/3DCrescent Bite / Crescent Claw - An unusual use of the "Crescent" series of enchantments, Niko's teeth and claws have been augmented to function as Crescent knives. Neither are a very impressive weapon in human form but when in beast shape they can be deadly. Document X202 - (Excerpt) Classified Power/3DBarrett M-82 - A semi-automatic sniper rifle chambered in .50 cal, the M-82 is popular with snipers who need to kill targets on the first shot at any distance. This is, understandably, a fairly good deal for Leviathan operators, as its ridiculous size and massive weight are offset by magical abilities. Firing it while not properly set up is still not recommended, though it isn't impossible. Document X301 - (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DAugmentation > Basic Buff - Standard speed and strength enhancements seen in many Illuminated Augmentation > Acute Senses - further enhanced by the Transformation ability, Niko's senses are highly developed allowing him to track smells, hear minute sounds, see great distances, and see in near darkness. Document X303 - (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DWitchcraft > Transformation - Through a somewhat unorthodox use of Witchcraft resulting from the undocumented consumption of a demon soul (2 years prior to his recruitment into SOUL), Niko has the ability to change physical aspects of his body - shape shifting in short. The transformation is generally lupine in nature (hence the code name) and may consist of minor modifications to individual parts (eyes for dark-vision, hands for claws, etc) or a complete transformation to a fully lupine (large wolf) form or a hybrid beast. Though he has come a long way with this ability is it still somewhat unpredictable and emotion driven, occasionally resulting in unintentional transformation and/or getting 'stuck' in a transformation or with transformation features for a period of time. His eyes have been stuck at a wolfish yellow since his first transformation only shifting to red when the more aggressive personality takes over.
umbraja Document X901-3571Classified Seraph/8X Name: Dr. Rachel Miles Defining Character Aspect: The only way of discovering the limits of the possible is to venture a little way past them into the impossible. Illumination Status: Not and never will be unless things go very wrong Role in Leviathan: Throne/6G, 'Doc' - A psychiatrist specializing in addictive disorders, Rachel was recruited for her specialty and experience with addicted individuals from a rehab clinic after she had the unfortunate luck to witness a SOUL operation go bad. She currently serves as staff psychiatrist for the local SOUL Facility providing counseling and analytical services to operatives and conducting field research with the Throne's RnD team. Her current research includes but is not limited to: Nothing to Lose: Psychological and socio-economic factors' influence on Illumination and subsequent addiction; Thorozine for the SOUL: Surrogate chemicals for soul addiction; Price of Power: Implications of Demoncraft on the user's physical and mental state. Leitmotif: Sergei Rachmaninoff: Op. 39 No. 2 - La Mer et Les Mouettes (the subtle scratch makes this recording) Tableau: Document X901-3571-AClassified Throne/6GAnalysis report of Document X901-6659-A. Subject 6659 displays classic symptoms of an addictive personality disorder along with a history of substance abuse. I had hoped this would make him an ideal candidate for the study, increasing his receptiveness to a surrogate, however it seems soul addiction supersedes a natural tendency toward compulsive addiction as well as other chemical effects. Most researchers here are all too happy to let that go as part of the 'magical' nature of this addiction, however there is a chemical component to be considered. On a bio-chemical level, it seems soul consumption alters the D1 to D-5, 5-HT, and opioid receptors (responsible for dopamine, serotonin, and endorphin uptake respectively) to only accept soul stimulation as well as increasing the functionality of the dopamine, serotonin, and endorphin mediators, more quickly clearing these natural chemicals from the brain. Long term soul consumption has been even shown to shut down production of these chemicals in the body and the modification of receptors makes synthetic replacements infective. It is important to note the function of these chemicals. Dopamine is the body's natural reward system and required for many neurological processes including: motivation, pleasure, cognition, memory, learning, and fine motor control. Lack of dopamine can cause Parkinsonian symptoms as well as Generalized Social Phobia. Serotonin is the body's temperance, responsible for regulating excitement and inhibition with influence over processes such as: aggression, anxiety, appetite, cognition, learning, memory, mood, nausea, sleep, and thermoregulation. Lack of serotonin can cause: weight gain, diabetes, depression, insomnia, and learning disability. Endorphin is the body's pain control mechanism, responsible for producing analgesia and a feeling of well-being. A lack of endorphin is known to cause depersonalization disorders. In short, soul consumption is the single most addictive, and harmful, substance in existence. Even without the reported 'extreme high' this extent of brain alteration would still result in crippling addiction as it, quite literally, makes the body incapable of feeling anything else as well as impairing several basic, very important bodily functions. Some of these withdrawal effects can be managed by regulated soul consumption but treating the many mood disorders require a more regular dosage than is practical, thus giving impetus to the search for a synthetic replacement. The steady degradation of addicted subjects regardless of feeding frequency or current treatment is another serious concern that warrants research into more effective treatment options. While I am aware the current theory states that 'soul addiction transcends chemistry' the apparent bio-chemical effects of the addiction gives me hope that maybe the science of the soul is only misunderstood and not truly 'magic'. I have confidence that some form of adequate surrogate can be developed and have drafts in the labs for trials with an enchantment enhanced option that may one day even lead to a cure along with the possible [REDACTED] solution. In the mean time I fear subject 6659's (and many others in the trial) condition will may worsen as frustration increases with the so far unsuccessful attempts to find a chemical substitute for soul consumption. There has already been an increase in 6659's collateral count and I have observed more frequently impulsive, aggressive, and antisocial behavior in most subjects within the trial. I recommend more frequent feeding for these subjects to offset negative behaviors until a substitute can be found. Of another interest is 6659's dissociative identity disorder. The secondary personality of which displays greater aggression, impulsiveness, antisocial behavior, and an often sociopathic lack of empathy. However, he also displays greater control of the standard magics and particularly the Demoncraft than the primary, more psychologically sound, personality. Upon review of other subject files it seems mental instability may play a role in Illumination factors and ability. Persons with certain personality (particularly of the addictive class) disorders number in higher percentages within the Illuminated population than a general sample with the more powerful individuals being often the least stable. This begs the question which came first: the instability or the power? In 6659's case, the subject claims both addictive and dissociative disorders were preexisting though considerably worsened by soul consumption. Given the lack of documentation on 6659's condition prior to recruitment I am forced to take his word for this. Other subjects have reported Illumination causing mental instability beyond expected addiction and withdrawal symptoms however not a large enough sample has been studied to make a conclusive determination. I request more subjects for this study, in particular those with Demoncraft abilities as more research is required on the effects of such magics and what is causing the increased incidents of demon soul consumption in cases such as 6659. Also I would like to request the opportunity to analyze and observe an operative through early stages of recruitment to the point of demon soul consumption and afterward to record the possible effects. This should include a period of field observation with a team including Demoncraft operatives in an effort to find commonalities between them. On a side note: I still have not heard back regarding my submissions to the labs for the SEP-FG development and the Shield Bracers' modifications. Leather does not go with everything and I don't see that the Bracers' function requires them to be hideous. Document X201 - (Excerpt)Classified Throne/6GSilent Restraint - Imbued with a power similar to Lynch's Silence (based on research gleaned from her in fact) the Silent Restraint is an enchanted rope that will silence most magics within its coils. It is used when patients get out of hand and to Silence subjects for interrogation. Document X202 - (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DHK USP-L with Auto-target Sight - Standard USP-L with enchanted sight and targeting mechanism that assists user aim (because Rachel's is awful). Mana Poison Rounds - Special ammunition rounds made of a certain material or imbued with a certain magic that temporarily 'poisons' Illuminated targets (confirmed) and possibly demons (not tested). Poisoned targets suffer a range of effects most commonly being decreased speed, strength, and ability to channel magic. Mana Seeking Rounds - Enchanted explosive rounds that seek to the nearest, highest concentration of magic. Only suggested for use in demon attack as they will seek out the demon (rather than team mates). Heat Seeking Rounds - Enchanted rounds that seek to heat sources. Targeted Rounds - Enchanted rounds psychically imprinted with a desired target upon firing that will seek to that target. Document X205 - Protective Equipment (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DShield Bracers - Enchanted arm guards that project a 3 foot x 5 foot shield (each) of solidified magic when activated. The shield will stop most attacks (including magic) until enough damage is done to 'break' it then must be recharged. Document X206 - Misc. Equipment (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DFixed Teleportation Beacon (FTB) - A shining example of SOUL's technomancy, the FTB is a telportation device linked to a digitally cataloged inventory which the device can materialize within a 15 foot radius by simply selecting the item from a GUI listed on a display resembling an iPad. At this time teleportation is not advisable for sentient beings as the process shuts down higher brain functions leaving the subject comatose in all tests. Modifications are in development to fix this issue. No X3 Document necessary.Rachel is not Illuminated.
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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2012 5:35 am
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Profiles Cont.
NativeForeigner Document X901-5150 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Richard Bender, Soul Bender Defining Character Aspect: Plagued demon despiser seeps psychosis Illumination Status: Good deeds gone rewarded. As far as Richard is concerned, the sensation he experiences when he absorbs a soul is simply a reward (possibly from God) to him for killing a demon or rogue (and therefore dangerous) operative. He has no reason to believe that killing anyone else will bring him any reward. Role in Leviathan: Virtue/4E, Pointman and Back-up Killswitch – Richard’s enthusiasm in the hunt, fueled by his hatred of demons, and refined by his training makes him an excellent pointman working alone or with a small team (along with a nearby squad, of course). Richard’s power to corrupt another’s mind and his devotion to SOUL makes him efficient in eliminating rogue operatives should the need arise. Leitmotif: Gnarls Barkley - CrazyTableau: Document X901-5150-AClassified Throne/6G SUBJECT NAME: Richard Bender DOB: [REDACTED] AGE: 27 GENDER: Male The following documents were secured from Purple Pastures Insane Asylum shortly after subject’s recruitment. They contain up-to-date information regarding subject 5150 pre-illumination. (A photo of the subject is also included. His features are defined but somewhat hollow and covered in scars. His brown hair is shaved close to his scalp and he has no facial hair. There is a lingering madness in his brown eyes that causes a deep discomfort to anyone who dwells on it.) ADMITTANCE FORM, PATIENT #0013798 – June 23, [REDACTED] 12:12 Involuntary admittance requested by patient’s relatives in response to apparent increase of unstable behavior. Relatives provided a recent incident report, but were unwilling to provide any further details. Physical examination revealed evidence of self-harm: scars from past abrasions on head and neck, apparently due to self-inflicted scratching. Fresh and partially closed surface lacerations are also apparent. Signs of extreme fatigue also evident - in examination patient admitted to insomnia but was unable to provide an exact time for length of insomnia, likely due to the insomnia itself. Moderate delirium evident. Patient measured and weighed at 6’ 2” and 164lbs. PRELIMINARY MEDICATION ISSUED: Triazolam 0.25mg for insomnia, topical Bacitracin for wound care. ADMISSION EVALUATION, PATIENT #0013798 – June 23, [REDACTED] 13:56 PERFORMED BY: Dr. Bianca Wilkins. Evidence of possible somniphobia: patient seemingly acts against self to cause pain in response to lack of stimuli. When pressed on the matter, patient admitted the actions were not to prevent sleep but would not elaborate. When asked why the patient avoided sleep, he reluctantly responded, as quoted “sleep is a waste of time” and “they watch me when I sleep.” Patient would not reveal who “they” were. Patient requests an isolated bed, becomes withdrawn/agitated when request is denied. When asked for justification, patient offers vague suggestion of hostile “others” and again refuses to elaborate, as quoted, “because I can’t trust you, and if I could, you’d be in danger.” Possible connection to the previously-mentioned “they”. Patient refuses to cooperate further with interview. Issue of insomnia needs immediate attention. Also evidence for likely paranoid schizophrenia and possible agoraphobia. Recommend further interview with full psychological spectrum testing for exact diagnosis. FINAL RECOMMENDATION: Admit patient. PRELIMINARY MEDICATION ISSUED: Cancel Triazolam, instead 5mg Diazepam twice daily for insomnia, anxiety, and probable sleep disorders. Exercise twice a day encouraged. FINAL ADMITTANCE REPORT, PATIENT #0013798 – June 23, [REDACTED] 14:13 Patient issued bed in Room 204. Current occupant(s): Patient #0013798, Patient #0013883. Clothes from admission remanded to family of patient, three sets of common dress issued for immediate needs. Further psych eval scheduled for 10:00 06/24/[REDACTED], determining future length of stay. WARD EVENT REPORT - June 23, [REDACTED] 14:30 During routine new patient room check, Patient #0013798 places a request with staff for transfer to an isolated bed. Patient #0013883 insists they permit the transfer. Appears agitated, claims Patient #0013798 has been disturbing him. Request denied. ORDERLY NOTE: Follow-up room check suggested to avoid possible intrapatient conflict. WARD EVENT REPORT - June 23, [REDACTED] 16:00 Follow-up room check. Patient #0013798 claims his request to be transferred to isolation has been granted. Patient #13883 backs claim. Administration records demonstrate no such order. Upon being informed, Patient #0013798 threatens staff and patient #13883 becomes increasingly agitated. Patient #0013798 becomes aggressive and additional personnel become required to contain incident. Both patients sedated and restrained. ORDERLY NOTE: Exercise caution in all future room checks for 204. WARD EVENT REPORT - June 23, [REDACTED] 22:34 Staff report loud sounds from room 204 after facility lights out. Sounds reported to be disturbing other rooms and patients, staff sent to investigate. Patient #0013798 found awake and struggling against restraints demanding to be freed from restraints and moved to isolation. Patient struggles against staff as he is transferred to a more comprehensive restraint. Additional personnel required to contain incident. Addition sedation administered to Patient #0013798. Patient #0013883 does not respond during incident. ORDERLY NOTE: Maintain restraints on Patient #0013798 until further notice. Sedate patient before removing restraints for any reason. PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION, PATIENT #0013798 – June 24, [REDACTED] 10:37 PERFORMED BY: Dr. Dewey Veals. (The following is a transcript of the recording of Subject 5150’s psychiatric evaluation provided alongside Dr. Veals’ notes) VEALS’ NOTE: Patient was reported to be more cooperative this morning. I suggested that patient be kept in only light restraints during evaluation. Prior to the evaluation, the incident report provided by the patient’s relatives was reviewed. It appears that the patient attacked and nearly killed a man because, as quoted in the report, “The assailant claims “the voices” told him the man was a demon.” VEALS: “I’ve read what you did to that man. It says that you claimed “the voices” told you the man was a demon. Is this true?” 5150: “No, no. I don’t think he was a demon, yet. The voices said that he might be a demon and if he wasn’t, he would be soon…” patient is avoiding eye contact. [SOUL NOTE: This, alongside the fact that Subject 5150 is still very much alive, makes it highly unlikely that this was an actual demon encounter.] VEALS: “These… voices, what are they like?” 5150: “Well… sometimes I hear these voices. They talk about demons… a lot, and sometimes they warn me about them. I usually try to ignore them, but sometimes…” patient shifts uncomfortably. VEALS: “Go on…” 5150: “Well, sometimes they get to be too much. I’ll- I’ll claw at them to try to get them to stop. It works, sometimes.” VEALS: “Why did you attack the man if he wasn’t actually a demon?” 5150: “To make the voices stop.” VEALS’ NOTE: Encouragement of the existence of demons by these voices appears to be the primary actor in patient’s paranoid psychosis. VEALS: “Why do you avoid sleep?” 5150: “They watch me when I sleep.” VEALS: “Who are “they”? Is it the voices?” 5150: Patient shifts around uncomfortably. “No, not the voices.” VEALS: “Come now, you can tell me. I’m here to help you.” 5150: “The demons…” VEALS: “The demons?” 5150: “Can I have my own room?” VEALS: “You know we can’t do that.” 5150: Patient appears discouraged. “Can I at least be unrestrained?” VEALS: “Now that depends on your behavior. If the next day goes without incident, it’s likely that you’ll be freed from your restraints. The patient ceases to cooperate effectively and the evaluation is brought to a close. DIAGNOSIS: Paranoid schizophrenia manifesting in somniphobia, likely agoraphobia, and sometimes violent psychosis. MEDICATION ISSUED: Up dosage for Diazepam to 10mg twice daily, on June 29, [REDACTED] begin issuing 2.5mg doses of Haloperidol twice daily for psychosis. Observed exercise twice a day recommended. (The next several weeks appear to go by with little occurrence. Aside from some difficulty administering medication and the frequent isolation requests, Subject 5150 causes little trouble and spends most of his time exercising. Subject now weighs a healthy 183 lbs) WARD EVENT REPORT – September 25, [REDACTED] 03:16 Staff report loud sounds from room 204 after facility lights out. Sounds reported to be disturbing other rooms and patients, staff sent to investigate. Patient #0013798 found over Patient #0013883 stabbing him repeatedly with a makeshift weapon. Additional staff called to restrain patient. Two are injured before patient suddenly gasps, writhes, and goes limp. He begins mumbling “Demon,” “had to do it,” and “rewarded” repeatedly. Patient #0013883 is found deceased with multiple stab wounds to the chest, neck, and eyes. Body moved to morgue, locker 3 for autopsy. Patient #0013798 restrained and transferred to isolation, room 425, given injected dose of 100mg Zuclopenthixol on attending physician’s orders to control acute psychosis. Patient is found with severe self-inflicted scratches on head and neck. WARD EVENT REPORT – September 26, [REDACTED] 08:43 Several staff have reported unsettling thoughts and feelings shortly after contact with Patient #0013798. After extended or repeated contact, some staff have given their notice of resignation. After a ten-minute session with the patient, Dr. [REDACTED] appeared to be suffering from severe psychosis and was admitted as a patient. Her sudden psychosis is currently being looked into. NOTE: There’s something seriously wrong with this guy. I mean, really wrong. I couldn’t spend more than a minute in the room with the guy. I caught a glimpse of his eyes and something just wasn’t right. I know it sounds mad, but I could feel… something, maybe it was him, clawing at my mind. Almost like my sanity was being torn away. I don’t even feel like the same man anymore. [REDACTED] spent five minutes with him and now he’s talking nonsense. Hell, if he wasn’t wearing a uniform, I’d swear he was a patient. WARD EVENT REPORT – October 2, [REDACTED] 10:00 Patient #0013798 found missing from room 425. Restraints found severed at connection points. Full search of building revealed two unconscious orderlies but no sign of the patient. Authorities have been alerted. Perhaps coincidentally, several men in suits, claiming to be government authorities, arrived demanding to see Patient #0013798. When told the patient had escaped, they promptly left. NOTE: I say we call the guy dead and get on with our lives. The suits can deal with him if they want him that badly. We’ve had more staff quit than the guy’s worth. Hell, I’m almost positive that it’s his fault Dr. [REDACTED] went from doctor to drooling mess in a damn day. I’m telling you, we’re better off without him. (In this time, SOUL operatives hunted down and captured Subject 5150.) WARD EVENT REPORT – October 4, [REDACTED] 10:00 Those suits showed up again asking about Patient #0013798’s files. They demanded that we hand over all records on him and forget he ever existed. We were more than happy to oblige, but forgetting’s not going to be so easy. I’m going to have nightmares for days. END OF DOCUMENT Post-illumination, Subject 5150 has proven to be quite the asset, partially due to hatred of demons. He has proven efficient at tracking and hunting demons. Works well with a team as a pointman or artillery (limited team interaction required due to the nature of his power). Cooperation was guaranteed once it was explained that he would be helping kill demons. Subject 5150 has also proven extremely efficient in hunting down and eliminating rogue operatives. Justified by explaining the risk they pose to us all. Subject 5150 has developed quickly and is fully capable of function alone or as part of a team. He has gained considerable knowledge in hunting demons and, despite his mental condition, has shown to be capable of effectively leading a demon hunt when necessary. In conclusion, as long as Subject 5150’s sanity remains at tolerable levels, he should remain a valuable member of SOUL. END OF REPORT ADDENDUM: Subject 5150 has recently reported strange sightings, including but not limited to: white phantoms, spontaneous blood, bloodstains seeping from the ground, red-stained “ghosts” appearing and “living out their final moments”. Though troublesome, these sightings could be attributed to the Subject’s sensitive psyche, however, it seems beyond coincidence that these sighting only started occurring shortly after the disappearance of Killswitch’s team. The matter is being looked into. Document X201 - Melee Weaponry Classified Power/3D Crescent Knife - The "Crescent" series of enchantments imbue a weapon previously heavily enchanted for general increased potency to add a powerful magic-fueled rending effect; the Crescent enchantment allows a sufficiently powerful Wizard or Witch to apply the souls they use to empower their magic (but not those used to learn spells) to cause a small blade to part armor and flesh like paper. Crescent enchantment was traditionally performed in accordance with the lunar cycle but has since been found to be equally effective regardless of when it is carried out. Document X201 – Small Arms Classified Power/3D FN Five-seveN USG – Fires 5.7×28mm rounds from a 20-round magazine. Subject 5150 has been known to carry different primary weapons in response to the anticipated situation. When hunting rogue operatives, he generally carries the Heckler and Koch MP5 or goes only with his sidearm, when hunting demons or when heavy resistance is expected he will usually bring along the Leviathan X6-S2, and a scoped M4 Carbine for everything else. Document X303 – Witchcraft (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DCrazy Eye - Subject 5150 has displayed the unnerving capability of siphoning another person’s sanity with a simple look. While not necessary, direct eye contact is the most efficient method. Physical touch could theoretically speed up the process. The process is rather fast, what took minutes for the subject to accomplish in the asylum now only takes several seconds. The loss of sanity can manifest itself in multiple ways, from a subtle loss of sanity to one’s worst fears realized. One of the most common manifestations is the inability to distinguish reality from thought. In all cases, the victim's ability to function is severely hampered. Subject 5150 appears to gain a temporary increase in sanity after crippling another’s mind.
explodingstaples Document X901-8913Classified Seraph/8XName: Nathaniel Evans Defining Character Aspect: The Witch with Empty Eyes Illumination Status: Soul Junkie Witch. Evans is heavily addicted to souls due to a feeling of emptiness and longing for something he can't find. He kills unnecessarily in an attempt to fill that emptiness up. He became Illuminated accidentally after killing an older boy in retaliation for years of abuse. Soon afterward, his craving went out of control and caused him to slaughter his family and go on a rampage using witchcraft. SOUL soon scooped him up and recruited him. Role in Leviathan: Destructive Witchcraft Expert. Usually deployed when all else fails, Evans works best when discretion isn't an issue. However, Evans' skill in magic can be useful in most combat situations. Leitmotif: Brand New - DaisyTableau: Nathaniel sighed and stared down at his shaking hands for a few moments before running them through his shaggy brown hair. He took a deep breath in a feeble attempt to calm himself. He could go without. He could avoid it. The feeling wasn't there. He wasn't empty, he didn't need to fill a hole in his heart. But... It was there. Despair. The all encompassing, overwhelming sensation of being completely and totally alone. The need for something, anything, to fill up that emptiness. The addiction was there. Pushing him, pressuring him. Nathaniel put his face in his shaking hands for a moment before drawing them away. His palms were wet. He was crying. But why? The man didn't understand, couldn't understand, why these tears ran down his face. They were just there. He put his fingers to the thin skin below his light blue eyes, trying to discover the reason for his tears and failing. Finally, both grudgingly and joyfully, Nathaniel gave in. He would make another unnecessary kill. The man had been trying to give up. Feeling like this, so dependent on taking the lives of others just to continue to endure his own bleak existence. He hated it. Somewhere inside, a part of Nathaniel loved the killing. Loved to feed on the souls purely to feed on them, rather than gain anything from the consumption. It made him strong, dangerous. It made his magic the strongest it could be, so that he could cause more killing and pain. Death intoxicated this part of his psyche, strengthening the addiction, demanding the murders of more and more innocents. Nathaniel dug a thin, spider-like hand into the pocket of his ripped, black jeans and produced a quarter. Slowly, he concentrated on the coin, visualizing it in his mind and flipping it between his fingers as he put souls into the spell he was about to cast. The coin began to glow faintly as the power of the souls within Nathaniel's body flowed into the makeshift weapon. As he walked down the dark streets, the tall, thin man searched for an easy target. A lone pedestrian, a junkie passed out in a gutter, some vagrant begging for change. What did he find? A child. Eleven years old, at the most. Nathaniel began losing control of his behavior. He threw the coin as hard as he could, putting the force of a bullet behind his little weapon as it flew. Nathaniel's shining, silver quarter dug into the boy's head with a satisfyingly sick squelch. The child dropped to the pavement, dead before he hit the floor. Nathaniel shook with complete ecstasy and cried out. His thin lips spread into a joyous smile that was totally unlike him. The gaunt, shaking man fell to his knees. At only twenty three years old, Nathaniel should not have been as ******** up as this. He never should have come close. But here he was. Practically malnourished, sleep deprived, and chasing a high. Nathaniel hated himself for who he had become. Slowly, the high began to wear off and the edges of his vision began to go fuzzy. The man stood on unsteady feet and staggered away, completely unable to think. He would find his way back to his bed eventually, he was sure. Until then, Nathaniel was content to just wander. No X2 Document filed for subject.Document X303 (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DBaby Boom - Creates small energy blasts. Very basic witchcraft. As dangerous as any explosion, but is easily controlled with very little concentration. Can be strong enough to blast a four foot by four foot hole in a wall. High Impact - Changes the physics around any object, altering the force of impact, velocity, and effects of impact. For example, the impact of a penny thrown from Evans' hand can reach the equivalent of the force of a car slamming into somebody at around fifty to sixty miles per hour. This spell requires average concentration. Any slip in control can result in the spell backfiring. Implosion - Manipulates the gravity around the target, crushing it inward and causing incredible amounts of damage. Has been shown to be powerful enough to destroy buildings. Extremely hard to control for long periods of time or in large amounts. Requires the use of large numbers of souls at once and total concentration. The misfire of the spell could result in friendly or civilian casualties, so Nathaniel uses it very rarely. [SOUL ADDENDUM: Be advised, 8913 may be capable of executing a "Big Bang" in desperate situations.] Big Bang - Creates a huge explosion radiating from the spell caster. Once the spell is released, there is no hope of controlling or containing it. It is just as deadly to the person casting it as it is to anyone near the blast. This is a last resort spell that also kills the caster. [ADMINISTRATIVE ADDENDUM: 8913 seems to suffer some degree of altered or inaccurate perception. Personnel working with 8913 should be advised that, unless disputing his "unusual interpretations of reality" is, for some reason, necessary, they should be advised to humour 8913's delusions, as his behaviour can become erratic, unpredictable, and irrational when he is questioned.
Jokerman-EXE Document X901-2173 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Dr. Sarah Schraeder Defining Character Aspect: Hard to Impress, Hard to Approach Illumination Status: Dr. Schraeder has been Illuminated for many years – longer than some of the other SOUL agents that she works alongside. She regiments her consumption of souls very harshly, only allowing herself to indulge during certain hours of the day and in certain situations. Role in Leviathan: The Specialist – Dr. Schraeder does not work with a specific group within SOUL, instead lending her abilities on a “support needed” basis. She typically works in headquarters with the other Enchanters, though her proficiency as a Wizard allows her to make her way to the battlefield when the need arises. Leitmotif: The Game Has ChangedTableau: Classified Domination/5FDr. Schraeder is debriefed after a field operation at [REDACTED], where 40% of her team is KIA. Interviewer sits; Dr. Schraeder remains standing. “Dr. Schraeder, could you relate to us the events that passed at [REDACTED], from your perspective?” “I would be unable to relate them from any other perspective, sir.” Dr. Schraeder shows no obvious signs of humor or sarcasm alongside this statement. Several seconds of silence. Interviewer shifts his weight in his chair before Dr. Schraeder continues. “We arrived at the site of the possession at 1400. The first rogue was already gone, having been the first to start killing innocents for the feeling of consuming their souls. As such, I had no qualms about striking her down.” “By 'striking her down,' you refer to your act of decapitation?” Dr. Schraeder is silent. She maintains unwavering eye contact with the interviewer. “Yes. I struck her down by removing her head. Was I called here to cross-reference your notes on what happened, or did you have a genuine question to ask me?” Interviewer is visibly uncomfortable. “Dr. Schraeder, we like to follow up any time such a... hardline method is used. Your mental state is of vital importance to your operations at SOUL.” Dr. Schraeder nods. “Continue.” Interviewer swallows and nods. “The report states that after you eliminated the first of the rogue Leviathan agents, you and your team were required to go into the local woods and attempt to track down the other three.” “Her team, yes.” “Were you successful?” “Yes. After four hours of canvassing the local area, we located one of the agents hiding in the trees. [REDACTED] dispatched him very efficiently. Before dying, the agent wounded [REDACTED], who I am told did not survive his injuries.” “No ma'am.” Interviewer shakes his head sadly. “A pity.” A second of silence. “We searched for an hour more before locating the third -” “You say located,” interviewer interrupts. “However, this woman located you first, and attacked, is that not correct?” Dr. Schraeder levels interviewer with an icy stare. “It is correct. The woman attacked from the tops of the trees and killed [REDACTED] outright. She also wounded [REDACTED] before I subdued her.” “Yes, we found her arms exactly where you detailed them in the report. Please continue.” “After another twenty minutes, we found the last. It took all of our remaining forces to subdue him.” Interviewer leans forward. “This is where the matter is questionable, Dr. Schraeder. Reports from other agents indicate that you did not kill the final rogue agent after locating him. Had you done so, the deaths of [REDACTED], [REDACTED], and [REDACTED] might have been avoided. What is your reasoning for not absorbing the soul of the man's wife?” Dr. Schraeder waves a hand. “It was after 1900. Of course I did not kill him; I didn't want to absorb his soul.” “I... I don't understand.” “I don't indulge after 1900 hours. Perhaps you would be better served by reviewing my files before you call me in for such an interview.” Interviewer rises to his feet. “But why didn't you just do it?! You could have saved the lives of three people! They're dead now, just because you didn't want to eat after 7! That's -” “That's their problem, isn't it.” Dr. Schraeder forces interviewer into his seat with the power of her soul. “Good day.” Dr. Schraeder exits to continue performing her duties. No further inquiry into the matter. Document X201 – (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DCrescent Knife – Dr. Schraeder carries two Crescent-enchanted short blades, with which she is proficient. Document X202 – (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DLeviathan X6-S2 – Dr. Schraeder has extensive training in the use of Leviathan's proprietary anti-demon small arms weaponry, with specific focus on the X6-S2. She was an early candidate for its testing. Document X304 – (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DThorns – Dr. Schraeder's research into Enchanting and Wizardry has yielded a somewhat unique piece of Wizardry that thus far has only been tested on Dr. Schraeder herself, called “Thorns.” Dr. Schraeder has been shown to reflect small amounts of soul-based offensive powers back at their user, an ability gained through her manipulation and understanding of souls in combat. Document X305 – (Excerpt)Classified Power/3DDecay – Dr. Schraeder has spent years studying the characteristics of the souls that power Leviathan and demon abilities. Her research has granted her an understanding that, when applied in combat, allows her to slowly and steadily drain the soul power reserves of an opponent. The combatant with the higher willpower determines the effectiveness of this technique; while the willpower of the opponent varies, Dr. Schraeder has already demonstrated... "exceptional" willpower. Effective range appears to be a radius of 10 yards; effectiveness of a touch-based delivery has yet to be determined. The drain aspect of this power wears off within an hour, once the target is out of Dr. Schraeder's range.
SiberDrac Document X901-1685 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Strings Frederickson Defining Character Aspect: Bloody Sunday Postlude Illumination Status: Devil's Fifth String. String uses high-level witchcraft as a defensive measure, but does not actively seek out victims. He is a soldier, to be placed as needed. Role in Leviathan: I'll Be Bach, and Other Classical One-Liners - a Suite. Sade provides cover fire for both entrances and retreats from team jobs. Leitmotif: Zoltán Kodály - Sonata for Solo Cello, ITableau: Strings is playing cello. He has been playing cello for the past few hours, and may be for many more. It's an old cello, the black lacquer on the bridge scathed and melted in places. The f-holes, though, are sanded and waxed to perfection, as though it has never been handled. The strings are similarly beyond perfect, vibrating out a deep hum on the lowest two while the third ripples through gentle arpeggios with the simple, too-delicate movements of his calloused, scarred fingers. The bow, too, spun through with golden rosettes on its brazilwood handle, has not been touched by time or taint. Strings' monolithic visage features a face untouched by sunlight after many years of weathering it and other atrocities - bleached leather stretched carelessly across a twice-broken nose, ivory scars like wax, cracked and themselves wrinkled through. The green, slightly jaundiced eyes are hidden now underneath a crumpled bowler's cap and eyelids besides, and sagging rings of flesh seem to barely hold them in place. He is not an old man - just an ex-smoker, an ex-drug addict, and an ex-thug. Inside the vast expanse of his brown leather duster is a SOUL-modified Heckler and Koch MP5, strapped to one flap. It's usually unnecessary when Strings provides cover fire, but it's nice to keep around in case he has to work on the move. Usually, life is more like this. Quiet. Relaxing. Filled with the sound of music - the kind of the life Strings wishes he had led. A small ring of corpses surrounds him in this small warehouse, many charred beyond recognition, others slowly fading into nonexistence as their essence dissolves, no longer anchored to anything physical or spiritual of worth. This cello is his weapon - his solace. Even in this instant, in the two seconds of this arpeggio, a gout of hellfire spews from the symmetric maws of the f-chamber into the gaping mouth of an oncoming beast, the flame rippling with the glorious colors of fire in accordance with the music that produces them, and reduces the attacker to ash. The piece continues, with minor hellspawn and madmen rushing to the bright flame of the empty building, while Sade's teammates move around to the more-important target. In Strings roil memories of violence and cacophony beget by desperation, and outside of him, they flash into an opposite reality, a euphonic fire to bring rest to other desperate souls. Document X202 (Excerpt) Classified Power/3D[/i
Heckler and Koch MP5 - The classic NATO submachine gun, used across the free world by anyone who needs close-quarters equipment. Leviathan MP5s are generally chambered for 10mm Auto, as smaller cartridges are unsuitable to the firepower needs of Leviathan.
Document X204 (Excerpt)
Classified Power/3D
Strings' cello has been enchanted during a long and arduous process to attune his witchcraft and amplify it through the music the cello produces. It will only work with the correct bow and strings, and has been known to consume unwary users in spontaneous hellfire.
Document X303 (Excerpt)
Classified Power/3D
Combustion: creates a small, directed burst of flame. Very basic pyromancy, used for close combat with low cost to the user and little need of control.
Greater Combustion: creates a large, directed burst of flam. Very basic pyromancy, used for close combat with higher cost to the user and greater opportunity for misfiring.
Fireball: shoots a small, exploding projectile ball of flame. Slightly advanced pyromancy, used in ranged combat and requiring average concentration. Size, range, and splash damage increase with experience.
NativeForeigner Document X901-1443 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Briar-Rose Indigo Coover Defining Character Aspect: The girl who kicks Isaac Newton in the jaw daily. Illumination Status: The Fifth Stage of Grief – Briar was illuminated when she killed a man. For a while since, she did everything in her power to avoid feeding. Before long, however, she began to accept what she was and took to munching on free spirits. Role in Leviathan: Virtue/4E The Inventor – Previous to becoming illuminated, Briar was a double major in physics and engineering. After her illumination, she spent the next two years continuing her studies with SOUL and went on to become a top researcher and inventor. Leitmotif: 2Cellos - HurtTableau: Briar-Rose stands, waving goodbye to her family as they drive off. Her petite body rocks in anticipation and a wild smile spreads across her pretty features. She cups her hands in front of her mouth in a futile attempt to hide it. Only seventeen and already in college! It’s going to be the time of her life; she can’t wait to get started.
Almost two years fly by. Now Briar-Rose is curled up half-nude and shivering on a dark path, her blouse torn open, her skirt at her ankles, and her panties ripped. Tears stream from her amber eyes, smearing her makeup and making them puffy. She lies there; next to the body of the man who had violated her. In her left hand she clutches the .357 snub revolver she used to kill him. After several minutes, she finally forces herself to her feet and covers what she can of herself. She bows her head, letting her auburn hair spill over her face, and slowly walks home. Briar awoke with tears welling in her eyes. She took a deep breath and pulled herself out of her bunk and began getting dressed. It was close enough to morning that others would soon be joining her. She buttoned the last button of her suit and brushed it flat. She glanced in the mirror and started to squirm; she was never comfortable in the uniform. She tugged at her collar, loosened her tie, and undid the top button of her shirt. She hated the damned thing. She decided to skip breakfast, as usual when she didn’t sleep well, and headed for the labs, her only respite. She hurried through the bland halls, passing one gray, windowless corridor after another. The claustrophobic hellhole was her “home”, whether she liked it or not. It felt more like a prison. She hated the damned place. A few of the higher ups were starting to fill the hallways and were offering Briar phony smiles and fake hellos. She offered the same; if she wasn’t worth their sincerity, they weren’t worth hers. To most of them she was nothing more than a tool to be used, something less than human. On some days, she agreed with them. She hated herself for that Finally, she made it to the labs and was greeted by a cheerful lab tech. She smiled back, this time genuinely. These people respected the work she did, respected her; at least she liked to think they did. Regardless, she appreciated them. They helped her to get lost, to forget. She joked with the tech, discussed the current project, and got lost in her work. Her work was all that kept her going; without it, she would begin to think too much. She would begin to think that maybe, just maybe, she shouldn’t have defended herself. That anything, even death, would be better than the shell of a life that she lived now. Document X201 - Melee Weaponry Classified Power/3D Crescent Knife - The "Crescent" series of enchantments imbue a weapon previously heavily enchanted for general increased potency to add a powerful magic-fueled rending effect; the Crescent enchantment allows a sufficiently powerful Wizard or Witch to apply the souls they use to empower their magic (but not those used to learn spells) to cause a small blade to part armor and flesh like paper. Crescent enchantment was traditionally performed in accordance with the lunar cycle but has since been found to be equally effective regardless of when it is carried out. Document X202 - Small Arms Classified Power/3D HK USP-L with Frictionless Barrel - A standard USP-L that Briar enchanted to have a frictionless surface on the inside of the barrel, slightly increasing accuracy and muzzle velocity while decreasing cleaning time significantly. Briar enchanted the barrel as an experiment before moving on to the trickier task of enchanting the frictionless surfaces on the inside of the MAC. Magnetic Accelerator Cannon – An invention of Briar’s, the MAC is a sniper rifle modeled after the Barrett M82 that utilizes railgun technology, frictionless enchantments, and a power enchantment to launch projectiles at deadly velocities. In layman’s terms, it works by sending a powderless, conductive .50 caliber round (basically a .50 caliber bullet without the case) along a pair of conductive rails powered by an enchantment. While powered, the rails have a magnetic field circulating around them. The force lines of the magnetic field run in a counterclockwise circle around the positive rail and in a clockwise circle around the negative rail. The net magnetic field between the rails is directed vertically. This causes the bullet to experience a Lorentz force that is directed perpendicularly to the magnetic field and to the direction of the current flowing across the armature. The Lorentz force is parallel to the rails, acting away from the power supply, so it pushes the bullet forward. The amount of force acting on the bullet is increased as the amount of current and rail-length do. So, by having a barrel (and therefore rail) length of 29”, a powerful current, and a frictionless surface, the bullets fired from this rifle tend to have a noticeably higher muzzle velocity than its gunpowder cousin, resulting in a greater effective range, greater accuracy, and an even greater impact force than the already-impressive impact that the original gunpowder variant provides. On top of that, because it utilizes railgun technology, the user suffers virtually no recoil. This allows smaller operatives to use the weapon without having to use an excessive amount of augmentation to keep their arm attached. Frictionless enchantments eliminate usual wear and tear problems often associated with railguns. Document X304 – Wizardry Classified Power/3D Fyzix – Briar likes to make a habit of kicking the laws of physics to the curb, and due to her expertise in the field she excels at it. Briar particularly enjoys the manipulation of gravity; whether it is to float, to create a sort of “fake telekinesis”, or to make someone’s feet too heavy to move, she can do it. Though, her powers are, of course, limited by the amount of soul energy she has available, and a fair portion of that has been devoted to enchantments and experiments to see how many great physicist she can cause to turn in their graves. It is because of her recent enchantments applied to the creation of the MAC that more advanced experiments with manipulating gravity are progressing slowly; such as creating a sort of super-gravity barrier that, in theory could provide an effective defense against most projectiles by causing them to be crushed to the ground by an incredible amount of gravity before impacting, or experiments with “turning off” molecular bonds, subtly tearing things apart at the molecular level.
Isa-sama Document X901-4278 Classified Seraph/8X Name: Clarissa Ann Schiffer Defining Character Aspect: Detached Perfectionistic Alchemist with Disappointing Research Aspirations Illumination Status: Self-deprived Illuminated. After Leviathan picked her up, she refused to eat because the sensations weren’t controllable. Unless she needed more power to do her job correctly, she generally tried to avoid eating souls. Instead of focusing on her hunger, she – much to the chagrin of Leviathan – distracted herself with research on free spirits. Role in Leviathan: “Brewmistress.” Before Clarissa became involved, potions were not widely used or even thought of much. She revolutionized the concept of making potions available to any Leviathan operative rather than just witchcraft or wizardry users. When she isn’t focused on creating said potions, she can go out into the field as a scout or supporter. Leitmotif: Tableau: Complaint Form X901-4278-A “—don’t mind if we record this do you?” A young woman is shown on the video with a bored expression on her face. She appears to be brunette Caucasian with brown eyes. “No. Let’s get this going, I have a few brews that need to be finished up today.” “Of course. State your name, title, and age.” “Clarissa Schiffer. Head of Brewery. 30 years old.” The interviewer nodded and stared at the forms in his hand. “Do you understand why you are here today?” The woman rolled her eyes as she leaned back in her chair. “Because [REDACTED] is looking to make my life harder than it needs to be?” “There have been several complaints from various agents about your work ethic and your lack of cooperation--” “Wrong.” The dark brown eyes furrowed into a glare. “Would you be willing to explain?” The frown turned into a thin line. “Do you know how many request forms I get per day? At least 20. And I have to deny many of them because either the ideas are stupid or they aren’t feasible. What people don’t seem to realize is that the potions I DO take on take time to create and then they must go through the testing phase before I can release them to the agents. I may be the woman who started up the Brewery, but I at least know the limits of my capabilities. I won’t apologize for that.” There was a pause. The interviewer said, “So you do not deny telling [REDACTED] that he was, and I quote, ‘an imbecilic moron who wouldn’t understand science if it spat in his face?’” “He IS a moron. He was asking for a potion to fly and wanted it on his desk in the next hour. He accused me of shirking my duties and purposely delaying my work for him. Because he was unable to wait, I gave him two lesser potions that should have done something along the same lines.” “His complaint specified nothing about getting a second potion.” “Then you should ask the assistants at Brew. They can tell you I gave him two potions – one which would get him to fly, and one which would get him to land safely. If he ignored my warnings to drink the second one in case any side effects occurred in the first one, that was his own fault.” “I see. So when he was simply launched into the air, fell to the ground, and would have died had it not been for his fellow agents, you had no idea about this?” The interviewer’s voice was filled with sarcasm. “None.” There was a minute of silence, but Clarissa did not show any sign of discomfort. “Look. I got work to do. There are several large batches of potions I have to oversee and I need to finish creating a recipe today or else I’ll find myself right back here for another complaint. You mind?” “Alright. I will be asking the assistants that day. If what you’ve said is true, the complaint will be dropped and you will have my sincere apology.” Clarissa scoffed as she got up and off the chair. “You’re doing your job. I just wish [REDACTED] would have listened to me while I was doing mine. Maybe we’d have avoided this.” Document X201Classified Power/3DCrescent Knife – Clarissa carries Crescent-enchanted machete. Document X303 Classified Power/3D Potions from witchcraft require at least a liquid base. It can have a maximum of four ingredients in order to be considered witchcraft based, and the ingredients must have some sort of symbolism to the creator. These potions are fueled by the maker’s emotions at the time of creation. They are also best to create in the field because the maker can turn a liquid base into a variety of potions. Users are warned of surprise side effects. Document X304 Classified Power/3DPotions from wizardry use a brewery process. It has a number of steps that don’t require the emotional aspect, but it does take a lot longer to create. This could not be made on the battlefield since it requires five to eight ingredients and a specialized process. However, they are more stable than witchcraft potions. Phantom Dance – the ability to become intangible. Physical objects cannot harm the user when intangible, but this does not prevent certain enchantments or spells from being effective.
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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2012 5:38 am
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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2012 5:39 am
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Posted: Tue Mar 06, 2012 12:34 am
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>First Contact
>Dawn
San Lazaro Incident, Report 19 CLASSIFIED SERAPH/8X > This is basically the worst possible thing. How did Killswitch and Team Zero end up compromised? > Best-case, they snapped mid-mission. Worst-case, they've been planning this for months, even years, and this demon was the cover they needed. We're in deep s**t. > Relax, you two. One thing at a time. I've pulled the dossiers for potential replacements for Team Zero. I've got a few demoncrafters, one of [REDACTED]'s on-site researchers, a few new recruits with some good potential, and a few others to round out the options. We can pick out a few of them and send them on an early mission to make sure they work well together, then if they do, start adding others. >Good call, [REDACTED]. I'll send the messages. End of stream
Subject: Eamon O'Byrne Virtue/4E
Eamon had arrived in the San Francisco International Airport last night, imported to the local SOUL base from the Boston area. He was finally, after hours in the back of an armored truck with a few bottles of whiskey "to keep him from wanting to bother the driver," arriving at the San Lazaro SOUL headquarters some 16 hours after he'd arrived in the region. A mere hour or two ago, to call him intoxicated, drunk, wasted, shiftfaced, or totally ******** up would all do an injustice to the sheer concentration of alcohol in his bloodstream. As it was, he had largely sobered up in the course of the last two hours - a "choice" linked largely to him consuming the entirety of the alcohol ration in the first half-hour of the journey.
Now, he was unceremoniously ejected from the vehicle in the parking garage San Lazaro's local Department of Agriculture facility; he went to a cargo elevator and, as per his instructions, input several floors in order: 5-4-1-7.
His identity confirmed in seconds by an on-duty staff member observing him on camera, the elevator plunged into the darkness, a hatch closing above him as he was brought to his new home.
Subject:Jake Uso Power/3D
"Sorry for the delay, Mr. Uso. Another member of your new team, a certain 'Cress Farrar,' appears to have arrived at a similar time and we've been ordered to transfer him over to this vehicle then move you to the base together while the other armored car picks up another who's arriving soon. It won't take but a moment," the driver informed Jake Uso over his intercom. The armored car must have had poor suspension or poor shock absorption or a poor driver or something else wrong with it to make the ride as impossibly bumpy as it felt. There wasn't really much to interact with but a selection of literature - useless with the kinds of vibrations/tremors/earthquakes the automobile seemed to be experiencing unless one was inclined towards self-inflicted motion sickness. There was a brief respite as the car came to a halt, then a blinding increase in the amount of light as the back opened.
Subject: Cress Farrar Virtue/4E
"And here we are, Operative Farrar. The car you're transferring to is right alongside us." Farrar was led from one vehicle to the next through the harsh assault of the blinding midday sun against their eyes and skins, and found himself on a bench much like the one he had just been in. As the car's engine grumbled to life and the vehicle began driving once again, Cress could not help noticing two things. The first was the lanky black-haired man, maybe five and a half feet on a good day, across from him in the car. The second was that good HEAVENS this truck is bumpy as all hell.
Subject: Dr. Rachel Miles Throne/6G
Dr. Rachel Miles had just received a very interesting e-mail:
"Regarding your request to witness the effects of Demoncraft on a team and on individuals, we're attaching you the new Team Seven replacing Team Zero. It will contain individuals who are yet to possess Demoncraft capabilities as well as a couple of already-manifested Demoncraft users. Members of this team are already transferring to the San Lazaro SOUL base." Attached were a number of dossiers.
Subject: Nikoli Bedier Power/3D
"... And this is last page you need to fill out for the 'accidental' kill, Operative Bedier. Thank you for your cooperation." As the Principal/2C office worker departed the room, Nikoli Bedier/William Reiley was already almost done with the sheet. It wasn't as if the questions on it got changed each time he went overboard and knocked off some poor sod in the process of sweeping an area for free spirits, after all.
Location: San Lazaro SOUL Lobby
Eamon emerged from the lift to be ushered into the lobby by a member of the local staff. This appeared to be a sort of combination common area and staging ground. Flat off-white walls at right angles to flat gray tiled floors and ceilings that supported surprising amounts of weight deep beneath the surface of the earth (and with no visible support structures). Tables were placed seemingly randomly but were actually in a pattern conducive to fast movement between them to the weapon racks on the walls or to the lift.
"Your team isn't fully assembled yet, that is to say, er, most of them aren't here yet, Mr. O'byrne," the attendant explained to Eamon. "One of your team's officers, Dr. Rachel Miles, should be around, in the research labs most likely, so you can buzz in at the entrance and request for her to come out and meet you if you like. I think Mr. Bedier has been here for some time as well... oh, and Leon arrived a few hours ago. I think he's around here somewhere."
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Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:37 am
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Eamon squinted at the man, trying to decide if he was important enough to warrant any kind of recognition. In the end, Eamon decided he probably wouldn't give half a s**t if he was the President of the United States, or possibly Jesus Christ, so really, what difference did it make? He did, however, manage to collect himself enough to decide that meeting the people who were already here wouldn't be a bad plan. "Dr. Miles. I'll, yeah. I'll see about that." Through what might be described as years of practice, Eamon was surprisingly capable of moving steadily despite his drunken haze, and he used this movement to carry him to what he could barely make out as the research labs. On the right of the door was an intercom, probably. It might also have been a light switch. Ehhh, he needed a nap anyway.
Eamon pressed the button. "Oy. I'm here... I'm, uh, here ta review team members. Eamon O'Byrne. Need ta see... Doctor Miles. Or sumthin' like tha'." He released the button and leaned heavily on the wall. This would not be a fun hangover.
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Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2012 9:41 am
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The research labs were not easy to find, practically hidden in the bottom levels of the facility well below the business offices into which Eamon first stepped, through the recreation and residential levels, and tucked away under several feet of concrete below the hangar. Eamon had to take an elevator down, one separate from the one he took in from the garage as that only went into the business sections. Signs lead him to the elevator and another security camera granted him clearance to the lab's level.
This was largely a safety consideration as in the early days of SOUL research labs were once located adjacent to the business offices for ease of access however risk of unauthorized entry and the lab's occasional tendency to explode made it prudent in later building design to isolate them. Also many of the researchers seemed to prefer the isolation - fewer distractions from their work.
Dr. Rachel Miles was not one of these.
But then the Doc kept her office in the medical section, only going down to the labs to pester the other researchers about her 'toys' and for lab results. It was both that found her there today, in a somewhat heated argument with one of the lab techs over his insistence that one of her designs was simply impossible to construct and that her lab results were similarly impossible to rush through protocol.
"Have a little imagination, for God's sake we hunt demons you would think a little bit of illusion wouldn't be so difficult," she snapped at the lab tech who had long since given up responding then stabbed a french manicured finger into the call button and answered in a tight but collected tone, "You are early, Agent O'Byrne, but your tone does not speak of eagerness. Give me a moment and I will join you." She cut the com off and shot the lab tech a nasty glare as she gathered her papers and tucked them into her ever present, frustratingly modest, black purse. Then with a sharp turn on high heeled shoes that tossed golden tresses she stormed out.
The door jerked open a bit forcefully and a tall woman, made taller by 4 inch stilettos, stepped out and shut it firmly behind her. The well cut, pinstripe black and grey suit she wore didn't look standard SOUL issue and the careful makeup on her porcelain face made her look somewhat like a doll. She gave the man standing outside the door a clinical study, noting his general disarray and drunk to hungover appearance. Her expression turned cold but she kept a polite smile as she spoke, "Well, I see where the lack of eagerness stems from." She shook her head, "No matter, I've seen much worse" she brushed it off flippantly and held out a delicate hand, "Dr. Rachel Miles, SOUL psychiatrist and occasional field researcher."
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Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2012 12:02 pm
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On a few occasions Will had written in suggested changes to the form. It was irritatingly biased, incomplete, and obviously not written by anyone who knew a damned thing about soul addiction or field work. This time though Niko wasn't going to let him waste their time as the staff never took the suggestions and only seemed annoyed by them. That's the point of it Will put in but couldn't, or at least didn't, force the issue so he finished the form quickly - a verbatim transcription of the last several he'd filled out - and turned it in to the little clerk behind the secretary's desk in the HR office.
He hated that office, hated the cheesy motivational posters on the walls, hated the cheery staff, hated the buzzing florescent lights, hated the occasional cut flowers and holiday decorations, but most of all he hated the smell of the half dozen upper middle class suburbanite secretaries' various noxious perfumes. He had to remind himself that most people could just barely smell the toxic stench that was an affront to his senses.
With a tight smile and slight nod he dropped the stack of forms on the desk and turned away without a word. It was all he could do to keep from saying something biting about any number of irritants in the room. Not that walking out really got rid of them. He would have to take a shower to wash off of the perfume that clung to him from being in its presence through the unnecessarily lengthy paperwork process and that florescent hum was present throughout the whole of the facility. Will was half convinced they were just trying to irritate him with it but again, most people couldn't hear as he did. Niko wished he had the control to turn his senses down but he couldn't even get rid of the fuzzy, wolfish ears that laid back in his mess of dark hair at the moment.
As if that wasn't bad enough he knew he was meeting a new team today. Just what he needed, more dog jokes. His ears twitched irritably and he seriously considered hiding in his room until they came down to get him. But that wouldn't help things any and only made a worse first impression - something the Doc had been telling him actually mattered.
So, with a heavy sigh and resignation, Niko walked out from the back offices into the main lobby to wait for his new team's arrival.
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Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2012 4:50 pm
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It took Eamon a depressingly long time to remember what an extended hand was for; when he remembered after about fifteen seconds, he reached out and accepted the hand, shaking it with questionable vigor. It took Eamon all of the next fifteen seconds to decide that he wasn't so sure about this woman, who struck him as condescending and snobbish. Of course, he couldn't make out details, so he wasn't prepared to condemn her to the ever-growing 'heap of assholes,' but she was on the waiting list anyway.
"Eamon O'Byrne. Guy. Who, uh. Leads stuff, I guess. Think I'm s'posed to be in charge o' Team... Team Seven. Here." God, he sounded ridiculous. Hell, he couldn't blame her for being condescending, under the circumstances. That didn't mean he wasn't angry about it, but he couldn't blame her.
An awkward silence followed. They were introduced, but it had taken another thirty seconds for Eamon to process the word "psychiatrist," and determine that this was the person in charge of their mental health. That added an entire new layer of distrust and frustration, seeing as psychiatrists were generally supposed to be, well, understanding. And helpful. Helpful was important. Field researcher? So... what was she researching? Field psychology? Eamon was far, far too intoxicated to figure it out, so he let it go. He'd ask when he'd sobered up all the way.
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Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2012 5:35 pm
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Posted: Sun Mar 11, 2012 3:54 am
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"Nah, I'm arright, jus' need a minute," Eamon informed her. "D'ya know anythin' about the res'? I haven't met 'em yet," he explained, pushing off the wall and standing, if slightly unsteadily. She was a field researcher, not a field operative, Eamon noted; he'd need to earn her trust more so than his actual team, and he could get to know her better without regretting it later. Which made it a bit more of a shame that she pretty clearly didn't think much of him. Eh, he'd prove himself on the field. He always did.
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Posted: Sun Mar 11, 2012 11:52 am
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The doctor's painted lips curled in a wry little grin as she stepped up to him and reached out slowly but without warning to straighten his collar. "Not read over the personnel files for your own team?" she nearly chided. "I suppose it is a sudden assignment," she shrugged and picked a bit of lint from his shoulder.
"I've only had time to skim some of them myself," she went on, "From what's I've read so far we'll be getting a freshly recruited brawler, seems to be a talented Augmentation user. And an enchanter I am somewhat excited to meet. His file suggests he may be a Demoncraft user," she gave Eamon a coy grin, "Like yourself." She paused and tried to flatten a cowlick in his hair before going on, "There is another Demoncrafter as well, one I am familiar with, but I will let Niko speak for himself when you meet him. It is something he needs to work on." She picked a last bit of lint from the man's shirt then stepped back with a nod and motioned down the hall, "There may be a few others I've not had time to read but it seems for now it's just a small team. One that should be gathering in the main lobby soon."
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