Logfile from Crucible - Samantha. ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/1 Posted Author OtV: Crucible Zoo Versus The Void Tue Sep 02 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ WALKING, TALKING MENAGERIE BEATS BADDIES! Early this evening, several of Crucible City's fine feathered (and furred and otherwise) Powers descended upon a faded apartment building and engaged former athlete and super-fast pugilist Bloodrunner and his associates in battle. Apart from the fact that more damage was done to the building than to the criminal and his three cohorts, several other interesting facts stand out about the battle. First, that the spurious excuse for the dust-up was the kidnapping of the daughter of visiting super-scientist Carry LeVane, in an attempt to blackmail Mrs. LeVane into working for an unspecified organization. Though respected for her earlier works, Mrs. LeVane's later theories on the nature of alternate realities made her a laughingstock in the community. Secondly, that Bloodrunner's associates were claimed to be "molded into something not of this world," though it would seem that they were as vulnerable to the assault of Powers as the next man. Bloodrunner himself, when unwrapped from bindings much like a spider's web, was found wearing a featureless medallion that evaporated when touched. Finally, given the difficulty of finding several anonymous figures, and out of respect for the doubtlessly stabilizing police element that was involved, the owner of the building has graciously declined to sue for damages. (Printed in The Crucible City Spyglass, a rather more disreputable paper ... follow-ups, @mail Magik, etc, etc.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/2 Posted Author Local foundation funds city repair Thu Sep 04 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the wake of recent violent attacks, attempts have been made to afford some measure of recompense for those individuals suffering property or personal damage in the wak of Powered battles. One of the organizations heading this effort, The Bainbridge Foundation, has announced that a substantial donation will be made both to the Field Museum and Crucible City's Chinatown. Addison Wesley Bainbridge III, the Foundation's spokesman, has issued a statement concerning the need for public involvement. Mr. Bainbridge issued the following quote: "While it only makes good sense for us non-powered folks to remain well out of the range of fire, there is still ample opportunity for heroic deeds in the aftermath. Whether one can donate time, capital or manpower, the efforts to rebuild areas damaged in the occurence of Powered battles, is as important as the battles themselves. While the Bainbridge Foundation exists to provide the funds for renovation, we also relie upon the goodwill and participation of all Crucible City's residents. Persons interested in being a part of restorations should feel free to contact the Bainbridge Foundation. As always, donations of time, capital and manpower are always welcome." The Bainbridge Foundation was formed in the aftermath of The Event as testimony to those Heros who vanished, Including Calliope and John Bainbridge-Well known Powers, The Muse and The Satyr. Originally, the Foundations purpose was to assist the families of those individuals who were taken from Crucible City and those who were left behind. With the recent upsurge in the appearance of Powers, however, the Foundations goals have been expanded to include supporting Crucible City's defenders in the aftermath of their battles. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/3 Posted Author Dinner And Politics, Anyone? Thu Sep 04 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (IC: Somewhere on the society page of one of the city's more reputable papers) It seems that one of the city's more well-known socialites, one Dominic Vaughn (who the rumor-mill has placed recently in the company of such personages as Doctor Wright and Gail Windsor, names which should be well-known to the readers of this - or any - paper), has arranged a little soiree for the city's cultural and societal elite at his penthouse suite coming up this next Tuesday evening. While no doubt many up-and-comers are hoping to recieve an invitation in the mail, no doubt most of them will be disappointed; so it'll be interesting to find out just who does show up at the party. This reporter will have an eye on the lobby of the John Hancock that evening, I can assure you. OOC: The party's set for Tuesday, starting at 7pm EST and running until people are tired. If you have the Wealth or Fame feats, you can probably consider yourself invited - if not, and you think there's some way that you'd be able to get an invitation, give Dominic a page or a mail! We can work something out. Maybe a singer/musician could be hired for entertainment, or someone trying to break into upper society might manage to wrangle and invitation through some means or another. Hope to see you there! Attire formal, of course.. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/4 Posted Author POWER CRIMINAL RESURFACES! Thu Sep 04 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribune) Power Crime Unit spokesmen confirmed today that the criminal known as Niagara showed her face again in Crucible City after a four year hiatus. The Power, whose real name is Terry Anne Harper, has control over water and was last seen in battle with the Saturn V. This time, she arose in the Aqua-Fun theme park in the north of town, where she was swiftly apprehended by four of the city's more well-known heroes: Tempest, Paragon, Solstice, and Moebius the Infinite Man. There were, however, dozens of injuries caused by Niagara when she created a 100-foot high creature of solid water, which attacked the crowd. The Powers used their abilities to transport the most seriously injured to the hospital. A containment team from the Gibbons Power Containment Compound arrived shortly thereafter to escort Niagara to a holding facility, where she has been charged with a long list of crimes including Powered Assault. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/5 Posted Author Psychic Sundered! Fri Sep 05 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This appears in the UCC Daily, as well as in several other local newpapers thanks to the Associated Press. A strange thing happened on campus today, former Psychology Teacher, Doctor Geralt Van Der Anged, walked onto capmus, dressed in a black cape and carrying a gun. Campus Security as well as a Powered Crime Unit Spokesman say that Doctor Van Der Anged was upset about his having been fired recently due to unethical behavior, and had intended to do great harm to his formed faculty fellows. Happening to be there to stop the man were American Pride, the former and famous wrestler, along with two unknown Powers, a female described as the Goddess of Inspiration, as well as a young man with the power over light. Also there, a man who declined to give his name, but who seemed to pack a powerful punch as Dr. Van Der Anged will attest to as he spends the next while recovering from several broken bones in the face. "While violence like this is abhorent to us," said the PCU spokesman, "It has come to our understanding that Doctor Van Der Anged has Psychic abilities and left the others no choice. From the look of the punch, Doctor Van Der Anged better be grateful he only has a broken jaw and broken nose." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/6 Posted Author SOUTHSIDE BUILDING COLLAPSES Fri Sep 05 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A building collapsed in Bridgeport on the South Side, near Aberdeen Street. Police officials released a statement saying that the collapse was due to some sort of vermin within the structure, and that while some of the vermin attacked bystanders, no casualties were reported due to the quick work of Gale Force and another gentleman who has not been identified at this time, though his use of powers suggest that he was the Power known as Quintessence. Property damage for the area is said to be 'minimal'. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/7 Posted Author OtV: Monkey Business In Shiller Pa Sun Sep 07 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SIMIAN VISITOR HITS CINEMA Late evening movie-goers at Schiller Park observed a large creature - half lemur, half squirrel - snatch a cellphone from a man's hand and run horizontally across the wall of the nearest building, the Cinema Palace. The man pursued, as did an unknown shadowy figure and the Power popularly known as the Doctor. The three managed to corral the creature, and according to the Doctor, sent it back to the extra-dimensional realm from which it arrived ... via an innocuous alley and means unknown. (This report appears buried deep within the pages of the Crucible City Enquirer. Any inquiries, @mail or page Magik) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/8 Posted Author Multiple Murderess Inertia Jailed Mon Sep 08 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tragedy struck today in Chinatown, once again lives and property were lost in a slugfest battle royale between local powers, and the Infamous Inertia, . Inertia is on the FBI's most wanted list in connection with her part in the destruction of once lucrative Donnovan Pharmaceuticals. Several warrants are out for the Power Supremicist for violent crimes including murder, destruction of private property, resisting arrest, assault, and grand larceny. Powers Tien Lung, Brass Monkey, China Star, and two as of yet unidentified heroes - one, a martial artist of considerable skill, the other apparently a pyrokinetic, worked together to bring the villainous Inertia down. Roger Corby, aged 45, father of three was killed instantly when Inertia attacked the Brinks truck he was driving. Injured were Robert Daniels, and Steven Marquardt. Also taken into custody was Niles North star pitcher Daniel Gregory Baker. Incriminating evidence was ruled to be circumstantial, and he was released into his parents' custody. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/9 Posted Author Friday Supplement Tue Sep 09 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the "What to do this weekend" supplement of the major newspapers, all through September, a coupon can be found in the restaurants section. It offers the traditional "Buy one meal, second meal half-price" deal, but there's also a kicker: at the bar, if you demonstrate a metahuman Power, or even a really good bar trick, you get your second drink free. (limit one per person). The name of the place is "The MASKS Club" and it's located in Millgate in the South Side. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/10 Posted Author OtV: Mini-zilla in Chinatown! Tue Sep 09 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ RAMPAGING BEAST STORMS CHINATOWN A seven-foot monstrosity of unknown origins exploded down the streets of Chinatown early last evening, wrecking cars, homes, devouring two people and killing a third with a vicious swipe of its claws, until it met with a road-block in the form of four Powers. Using several improvised weapons, including a glass bottle and what appeared to be a stop sign, they took down the beast despite its apparent attempts at "romance" with one of the Powers. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/11 Posted Author HEROS PREVENT ROBBERY Thu Sep 11 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In a bank robbery today, three heros prevented the escape of four men who had slain one of the bank employees and were preparing to escape with cash totaling over one thousand dollars. Very little was known about them, other than the fact two were powers, one appearing to be made of glass and the second seemed to be made of shadow. The third, who refused to call himself more than 'Kid', stayed to speak to the police though he couldn't identify the other two men. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/12 Posted Author CT: PROTEST TURNS TO RIOT! Fri Sep 12 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribute) -- PROTEST TURNS TO RIOT -- PSYCHIC SUSPECTED! It was a scene of strained calm that erupted into chaos and tragedy this Thursday evening in the River West neighborhood; a peaceful (if audible) protest by a small gathering of Tribe Prime's people (in town to protest tomorrow's scheduled execution of Prince Primeval) was reputedly making their way down the street when without warning they broke into violence, smashing windows and over-turning a car near where they were walking down the street. Tragedy struck almost immediately, as a pyrokinetic in the area - an individual later identified by police as Zek 'Arson' Piper - set fire to one Kwesi Atta-Krah, incinerating him so badly that only dental records were able to make a forensic identification of the man. Atta-Krah has been conflictingly reported as having been unarmed or armed with a baseball bat and threatening the former wrestler 'Vix' Vance Vader, also on the scene. The riot was contained by a number of other Powers, some of whom have not yet been indentified, via the use of a fire hydrant and entrapping the surviving Tribals in a clothing store while Vader immobilized 'Arson' Piper before any of the other rioters could meet the fate of Atta-Krah or the demonstration's leader, one Malcolm Sisulu (currently hospitalized with third-degree burns, though believed to be making a full recovery). The cause of this sudden riot was discovered by a 'dark clad man' and an unknown woman who broke in on a psychic known only as 'The Mighty Migraine' who was attempting to rob the Victorian Art Gallery of its art -- he has been alleged to have mind-controlled the rioters, and the protestors have been reported to have no memory of the events beginning immediately before violence ensued and ending after 'Migraine' was reduced to unconsciousness. A third Power is suspected to have been the one who struck the final blow against 'Migraine' as security footage shows him falling as though struck by a presence not visible on the tape, but this information is not certain. 'Arson' Piper was taken along with 'Migraine' to the Pound shortly after the end of the incident, and this reporter cannot help but wonder if this will engender further conflict with the already-upset presence of Tribe Prime within our fair city. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/13 Posted Author RIOTS ROCK CITY Fri Sep 12 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ --Crucible Tribune, to the side of the previous article. What started as a peaceful demonstration on the Main Quads of the University of Crucible City turned suddenly and unexpectedly violent last night. Several people have been hospitalized after being trampled by the crushing mass of demonstrators, and at least one other is being held for observation after a suspected cardiac arrest. One demonstrator, Abebe Adeniji, was leading the crowd and inciting the people to "rise up against their oppressors," according to one witness. "He started with all the peaceful crap those guys say, then worked 'em into a frenzy and let them loose." This account is somewhat disputed by both Mr. Adeniji and Jonathan Stillcreek, another member of Tribe Prime. Mr. Adeniji insists that he was just calling for a peaceful demonstration against the injustices done to Prince Primeval and Tribe Prime before he blacked out and collapsed. Stillcreek concurs, adding that the last few sentences that seemed to be more inflammatory were perhaps triggered by Adeniji's incipient cardiac arrest. Stillcreek also added that the makeshift bomb that was thrown into the mass of Tribe Prime was an obvious attack by people seeking to further deny Tribe Prime their primal rights, when the Tribe demonstrators were only seeking to gather according to their First Amendment rights. Luckily for the university, the riot was quickly quelled by the sudden appearance of several powers. Paragon, the caped wonder, swooped down to help take Adeniji to the medical center after his apparent collapse. A mass of water drenched many in the center of the riot, working as well as a firehose in quenching their anger, perhaps brought by a giant hawk of some sort that was flying overhead. An ice wall from nowhere kept many of the crowd from harming the Fermi Physical Sciences Building, while some sort of "force field" was erected by a barely-seen masked man to contain more of the gathering within the courtyard. Additionally, a young woman rushed out of the dining hall, yelling in some strange language, striking protestors with strange purple bolts. Witnesses differ concerning the effect of those bolts on protestors, however, as some claim that they felled people and others claim that they only hit people who were already down. Another young woman is reported to have calmly walked among the rioters, talking soothingly to calm down the protestors before a young man in a colorful costume who announced his name as "Remix" deafened the crowd with a blast of sound and music, bringing the last bits of violence to an abrupt halt. Reports have also been made of some sort of "living shadow" with "glowing red eyes" that attacked members of Tribe Prime with monsters from the darkness, and a mysterious antlered man who caused the trees and grass to grab onto demonstrators. Some of Tribe Prime have filed complaints against the University for not providing a place where they could peacably assemble. The University has refrained from commenting thus far, saying only that more investigation needs to be done before any comment can be made. One source has said that with the damage done, any right of peacable assembly was essentially waived. Total damages are "easily in the thousands of dollars," according to another unnamed source with the University. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/14 Posted Author Society Gossip.. Fri Sep 12 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribune - Society Page) -- Societal Happenings Word has it that the little soiree held at the Vaughn penthouse earlier this week was quite the party! The usual suspects were to be seen about, or so a little bird tells me, as well as a few unexpected parties - the renowned Doctor Wright and Officer Gail Windsor, for two! Though they were in evidence, there was no crude flinging about of powers, fortunately - as demonstrated by Michael Gainworth's party last fall, that sort of thing is just gauche! Addison Bainbridge was in attendance with his usual sense of fashion showing up the room, and early in the evening paired off with the well-known model Matilda Borson - gorgeous in scarlet and fur - and rumor has it that they left early, in each others' company! Could there be romance budding on the horizon, or simply another celebrity spokeswoman for the Bainbridge foundation? Speaking of romance, a mysterious young lady in gold silk and fishnets was present as well, and was seen to quite freely wander in and out of Mr. Vaughn's bedroom suite unhindered - perhaps the soiree's host has something he isn't telling the rest of us, mm? Given his notorious bachelor status, /that/ would be news indeed.. Devon Storm, one of the more /eligible/ young bachelors in Crucible City - speaking of such - and heir to his father's electronics fortune, was on hand as well; speaking with a few young ladies, though unlike Mr. Bainbridge he left alone. He's still free, ladies! Make your move while you can! There was one -minor- incident reportedly involving someone's daughter, but the general consensus seems that it was more amusing than not; word has it that Bethany Gable and entourage are still steaming over it, though. As ever, we'll be here to keep reporting the latest news - it's not just gossip, it's our sacred duty to the city! ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/15 Posted Author HORRIFIC MURDERS FOUND IN HYDE PAR Sun Sep 14 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This morning, in the wake of certain troubled events, more tragedy struck the citizens of Crucible City. Three bodies were found in Hyde Park by a jogger this morning. Police experts state that the murders may be related to murders that happened earlier this year, though they will not release details of the case. Sources reveal many disturbing facts on this case, including the fact that the bodies were skinned and the victims' hearts were cut out. Other facts of the case have not been released to the press; we endeavor to discover more for our readers. (Curious? @mail Forge) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/16 Posted Author Crucible Astronomy Sun Sep 14 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A small article in Crucible Astronomy this month notes a small mini-star that seemed to exist between Earth and Mars orbit for about three minutes on September 14th, and then blinked out of existance. No reason is known for it's creation or destruction. (OOC: Thanks to Alexandra, Emiricol, Ryan, and Gareth for a fun little scene. Anyone investigating the area around the 'star', please let me know via @mail AP.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/17 Posted Author More Trouble in Chinatown Sun Sep 14 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The headline reads: Murderous Waxworks Apprehended by Local Heroes Chinatown is once again the site of a Powers battle in the streets. Significant property damage was done including the window to Fong's Market, a streetlight, as well as numerous damaged cars. Tragically, the fracas started with the malleable Waxworks defenestrating Crucible City visitor Cameron James, age 30 and father of two. Mister James was killed upon impact with a street light across the way. Local powers rallied to the defense of the innocent with a very different looking Tien Lung <> confronting the villain almost immediately after his attack. Susan Fen Wa, age seventy-two, was saved from certain death by the heroism of the Brass Monkey. Ultimately powers Tien Lung, Brass Monkey, the mysterious 'Dollman', and the armor clad Junkyard Dragon, as well as an as yet unidentified power who demonstrated the power to teleport, and to hurl energy blasts, managed to take Waxworks down, and sent him packing to the police. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/18 Posted Author Construction Company Buy-Out Mon Sep 15 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the business section: Local firm LeCroix Industrial Inc. has struck an agreement to acquire Adison Construction in a deal that managed to prevent Adison from filing for bankruptcy. The deal, would nearly double Adison Construction's contracts within Crucible City. Sources within Adison Construction were said to find news of the buyout to be a relief. "This'll end up saving a lot of construction jobs within the city. With all the recent events it looks like business might be seeing a major boom." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/19 Posted Author SOCIALITE DEAD AT 26 Mon Sep 15 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribune - Obituaries Section) DOMINIC VAUGHN Born 9/17/76 -- Died 9/12/03 It is with grief that we announce the passing of Dominic Patrick Vaughn, who died suddenly of cardiac arrest Friday evening, stemming from a previously undiagnosed heart condition. While not as well-known as others, his quiet support of various charities and social services in Crucible City is well-recorded, and amongst certain circles his parties were legendary. He will be missed, by those who knew him, as a good man. He left no surviving relatives. The funeral service will be held on Monday, the 22nd of September in Oak Woods cemetary. A devout Catholic in life, the ceremony will be presided over by Father Michael Paratico. (OOC: Monday the 22nd (Exact time TBA), assuming that the player of the dead man doesn't have his house leveled by the hurricane coming through. Although one presumes it could go on without him, since it's not as though Dominic will be posing a lot. ;) ) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/20 Posted Author Shoot-Out On the Lake Tue Sep 16 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This report is on the front page, in the lower right corner: Lakeshore residents and passerbys were shocked Monday night by a shoot-out on the lake between two powerboats and the _Victory_, a large vessel owned and operated by shipping magnate Geoffrey Bryson (of Bryson Shipping). No casualties on the _Victory_ were reported, but four civilian boats were destroyed in the attack and six people had to be pulled from the dark lake waters. The clearly planned terrorist attack, which involved missiles and large-calibre mounted guns, was broken up by the arrival of a winged superhero dressed in black and was responsible for the single-handed apprehension of the group's ringleader, Margaret "Molly" McMahan, and two others. This superhero, who departed before the arrival of the press, is believed to have been Shiva, the hero persona of international businessman Cosmo Amsel. (Amsel's winged presence became visible almost a year ago after he somehow survived the crash of his private jet.) Also reported by three survivors is the presence of a white-costumed superhero who plucked them from the water and returned them to shore. "I couldn't see her because she was moving so fast," reported James Margolis, 34, one of the survivors whose boat was sunk by the terrorists, "but I'm sure it was a her. In a tight costume." In a statement released this morning, Geoffrey Bryson said, "I have no idea why terrorists would attack one of my ships, and I am grateful to those who saved my ship from damage. Whoever you heroes are, you have my thanks." Amsel Unlimited, the company owned by Cosmo Amsel, had no comment. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/21 Posted Author Construction on The Pound Tue Sep 16 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Construction on the Pound continues. With the help of the Powers Quintessence and Eclipse the bulk of the heavy construction work went exceedingly quick. Still the more fine details of reconstruction remain, the private sector was there to rally to back up the heroes. Adison Construction, a subsidiary of LeCroix Industrial Inc, placed a bid on the contract and has begun to finish off the more fine details of the reconstruction. Foreman Alexander Walker was quoted as saying, "Thanks to the help of Quintessence and Eclipse getting the Pound up and running will only take a few months compared to what it would have been before." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/22 Posted Author Millionaire Philanthropist Murdere Tue Sep 16 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Headline: Millionaire Philanthropist David LeCroix Found Murdered in his Home At five AM central standard time Mister David LeCroix was found murdered in his Hancock Center luxury condominium. Mister LeCroix had a broken neck, and was found pinned to his wall by a katana thrust through his chest. Evidence found on site supports the fact that the impalement was done after his death, but no evidence was found that points to the identity of his assailant. Found by his Batman, Jason Rayle, mister LeCroix is survived by no heirs. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/23 Posted Author Flying Villain Captured, Released! Wed Sep 17 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ --UCC Chronicle, front page The mercenary Raptor was captured late Tuesday night after a break-in at the Fermi High Energy Physics building, then later released. Students in the area described a "fast blue streak" that flew into the mostly empty building, then "flashes like lightning" from inside. Several graduate students and professors were injured as Raptor tore through the building in search of his prize. Moments later, he burst through the door with a sheaf of papers in hand, only to get blasted by purple bolts by some girl in the crowd. According to eyewitnesses, a battle ensued between the purple girl, Paragon, Poltergeist, and a pinpoint accurate hero throwing high-tech projectiles against Raptor. While the mercenary held the upper hand for a while, the foursome used coordinated teamwork to finally take him down. The purple girl proceeded to heal those injured in Raptor's attacks, while Paragon held him for the police. Early Wednesday morning, Raptor was released after it was determined that there had been "irregularities" in the arrest procedures by the campus police. "While we regret allowing this alleged criminal back on the streets," said UCC Police Chief Al Yovella, "the law applies equally to everyone. I have spoken to my officers, and this will not happen again." The University later issued a statement indicating that it was considering a damages suit against Raptor for the cost of repair to the Fermi building. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/24 Posted Author Campus Filming brings out the Star Wed Sep 17 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ *found in Thursday's papers, as well as the evening news, with footage* Earlier today, a female Power who was described as 'being made of smoke, and transparent too' attacked the East Library of UCC, which was the shooting location for next Summer's potential Blockbuster, Stab 4. The 'ghost woman' who was not named, appeared on the library steps, tainting the talent of 'Stab' actress Bev Lipton, denouncing her acting ability before she summoned something the assailant referred to as 'A Brain Eating Slug from Dimension X' to attack her, as well as attacking local powers arriving on the scene with 'A Samurai Zombie.' But the local heroes prevailed, with the hero known as Quintessence defeating the unknown woman, who disappeared in a vortex of smoke and flame while another power, new to the area and known as Remix, dispatched the Samurai monster. Also seen on the scene was the young heroine known as Chance, as well as some unknown others, and it is not sure if they were Powers or not. All of them were unavailable for comment when police, led by Flying Squad member Quan Xian-Xing, arrived on the scene. Lipton was reported as 'shaken, but not hurt,' and director William Kevinson has this to say. "On behalf of my cast and crew, I want to thank those heroes who showed up to help today. And I just might fit that scene in Stab 4, coming next July 4th, to a Theatre near you." (OOC: Questions into the incident itself can go to Jacob. Also to Bobby, Eunice, DJ Breakbeat, Akira, Misora, and Xian-Xing. Thanks to everyone for a wonderful scene!) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/25 Posted Author In the 'To Rent' section... Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Posted in most of the local papers.) Available: rooms for rent in excuisitely well kept mansion on the Gold Coast! Three medium sized bedrooms all with access to own bath/WC are each available for rent at 1000 $/month. Extremely luxurious surroundings, quiet, pets and smoking allowed. Shared kitchen large enough for three people to use at the same time. Mansion is in an eclectic Queen Anne/Cotswold Cottage style, 'jewel box' interior. Rooms include touches such as hearths, bay and sky windows. Furniture available as part of rent if so desired. Owner is a liberal independent artist with a good income and fondness for lengthy rambling discussions about everything from philosophy to comics. Wanted: Well mannered person or couple for the above. Gender etc not a factor, but must come equipped with an open mind so as to avoid overly flammable arguments: the owner is severely allergic to biased people. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/26 Posted Author OtV: Being-Of-Light Turns Violent Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A bizarre being formed of pure light and what observers could only describe as star-dust drifted down the streets just beyond Lake Michigan's southern shore late this evening, to the fascination of passerby, who followed it in droves. It appeared to be welcoming to them until it crossed into the open spaces by the lake and was struck by an evening breeze, whereupon it assaulted crowds with an agonizing flash of psychic force. Two obvious Powers - including a darkness-shrouded young woman who flew above the scene and a shapeshifter who transformed his arms into fans - and a brave young man who pulled bystanders out of the line of fire managed to subdued the orb of light, although the best description of the surrounding property was given by one young man saved in the incident: "Singed. Totally singed." Landscape artists have plans to incorporate the new features in their design. (Printed in the Crucible City Enquirer on page six. Inquiries to Magik.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/27 Posted Author Jewelry Theft Averted! Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A massive explosion rocked a local jewelry store in the Central Mall, set off by the Power the Scarlet Blaze in his attempt to relieve the store of its anniversary displays. Roused to combat the duplicating menace were legend of old American Justice, Patter - a name better-known from the city of Boston - and an unknown armored figure. Seeing double and then triple, they subdued the villain through valiant long division, and were quickly relieved by the PCU. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/28 Posted Author Health & Well-Being Section Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Nestled in the Health & Well-Being section of Thursday's paper is a small announcement for a new doctor in Crucible City. Josalyn Rey Windham Ph.D. - LCSW Hyde Park - Blue Row Road 555-8540 office 555-8541 pager ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/29 Posted Author Press Conference At City Hall Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This morning, at a press conference, eight local Powers renowned for their aid to the city in multiple capacities assembled on the steps of City Hall. Their spokeswoman and leader, Gail Windsor, announced the formation of a crime-fighting time to take to the skies and streets of Crucible: the Dawn Patrol. Training for many long months, the group's formal decision was inspired by the events at the Pound, and by the surge of Powers in recent years. It is comprised of Gail herself, Tempest, Solstice, Chance, Eclipse, Paragon and Quintessence, with American Justice as a reserve member. The Dawn Patrol stresses that they do not have formal law-enforcement powers, and that their primary function is to assist and abet the swamped and beleagured authorities. They also disavow any definition association with Gay and Lesbian activists, citing a desire to use their gifts for the good of all mankind, above and beyond Crucible City and the borders of the United States. Despite some hostile questioning, the group stated a desire to work for the good at all, and that the solidarity within their own ranks would withstand challenges from both without and within. Watch the skies, Crucible. ~Estelle Laredo Lee (For the Crucible City Tribune) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/30 Posted Author OtV: Meanwhile, in Addison ... Thu Sep 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ MYSTERIOUS "BLACK HOLE" FORMS IN ADDISON! The quiet evening of residential Addison was shattered by an ear-splitting bang and the rushing of winds, the result of a fifteen-foot rift in mid-air that opened into nothingness. The vortex sucked in every small object within its path in seconds and began to increase its force, drawing in mailboxes, lawn furniture, children's bikes and cars. Lives were saved only by the heroic intervention of three Powers who identified themselves as part of the Shanghai Knights. The families of the near-victims wish to offer their profuse thanks to the young men involved. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/31 Posted Author Conspiracy Cover-up! Fri Sep 19 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the Sleazy Tabloids - The Headline Reads: Men in Black...for Real? Miss Jasmine Fontelroy called in a complaint to the CCPD, who promptly informed some as yet unidentified governement agency. Her complaint? Apparently some hooligans made off with a Newspaper Dispenser, replacing it with one full of Nazi Propaganda. One eye witness reported that a Woman, flashing government ID, and a mysterious man in black armor appeared on the scene, and did some investigating. Within an hour the Newspaper Dispenser was absconded with by what this reporter assumes to be feds in an unmarked white van, in fact so thorough were they that they took a good section of the surrounding sidewalk. Most amazing of all...work crews from IDOT were on the scene, and repaired all damages within an hour after that. Miraculous. As of this time the local branch of the American National Socialist Party disavows all knowledge of or responsibility for the switch. <> ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/32 Posted Author SP Private Clinic Press Release Sat Sep 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (For additional information, contact Dr. J. Eirikssen, at (555) 555-5555, 238 Union Avenue, Harvey, jorg@SPPClinic.org) "Private Clinic Opening in Harvey." Harvey, September 20th, 2003. A sizeable private clinic, "Superior Prosthetics", has opened its doors. Headed by Dr. Jorg Eirikssen, the facility is located within arm's reach of Ingall Memorial Hospital, providing easy access for individuals requiring additional, advanced care after permanently debilitating injuries. Performing its own research on site, the facility is presently able to replace lost limbs with almost as much functionality as the original. Able to assist the hospital in very dire transplant cases, the clinic is also capable of producing artificial internal organs to help keep patients alive until compatible replacements are found. Experimental eyes and ears are purportedly also under development, able to restore a limited degree of vision or hearing to the blind or deaf. The Superior Prosthetics Private Clinic accepts most forms of health insurance, and is able to assist those of lesser means--providing health care services for the rich and the poor alike. Performing its own research in the same facility, the Clinic pushes the envelope of technology, helping to erase the stigma attached to being handicapped. (OOC: Got a bio-type sciencey PC? A medic-type? Want an IC job? Drop me some @mail with your resume! My alias is simply E. --Jorg's player.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/33 Posted Author CHILD MURDER INVESTIGATED Sat Sep 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Police were called in last evening to deal with a heinous crime involving the murder of a child in Arlington Heights. The facts reported are sketchy, but the police have released that the murders had cult connections and that the two men involved with the case were slain in their apprehension. Sources inside the police department reveal that various Powers were involved in this incident, though for some reason the police are not revealing their names. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/34 Posted Author NEW VIGILANTE IN TOWN? Sat Sep 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The South Side was the scene of another mysterious "Hanged Man" incident late last night. Police stated that they found three suspected criminals hanging from a lamp post on Welles Avenue after an anonymous tip. The men had each suffered minor concussions and one was treated at Crucible City General for a gunshot wound to the left thigh. The men were found to be in possession of a substantial amount of cocaine and several unregistered firearms. As in three previous similar occasions in the past month, a card was found at the scene. The card has been once more identified as depicting "The Hanged Man", one of several cards to be found in the so-called Tarot style deck used by occultists and psychics. One eyewitness claimed to have seen a cloaked individual leaving the card on the bodies before disappearing into the night. Police would neither confirm nor deny this story. According to police sources, the Tribune has learned that the unconscious men have been identified as rumored members of a Colombian drug ring known to be operating in the city.
============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/35 Posted Author Drama in Theatre District Sat Sep 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The most thrilling show around the theatre district last night was on the street. Several minutes after the doors closed on the 9:15 showing of 'Cellophane' and 'Rounding Third,' a different kind of surprise guest made a dramatic entrance: an airborne Volkswagon Beetle which hurlted into the third-story of a nearby building. Rhonda Khairallah, a clerk at Rockwell Grocers, had front row seats. "I was outside, taking a smoke break," Khairallah said. "Saw these two ... people ... walking down the street. Looked like a living corpse, he did. And she was just as bad. Red-skinned devil. I mean, literally--a red-skinned devil. Tail and everything. Total freakshow." Storefront security cameras show that the Volkswagon was thrown by one of two Powers, whom witnesses described as approximately seven to eight feet tall humanoids, with porcine features. Five bystanders were injured by falling debris caused by the impact of the airborne car--there were no other injuries, due to the timely action of three Powers. "The Dead Man and the red devil girl all of a sudden started moving way fast," Khairallah reports. "Like in fast-forward. I couldn't hardly tell what was happening, but it looked like the Dead Man hit one of the Pigboys in the face a few times. Then some glowing thing--like a man, but all of light--he came flying in and shot lasers at the other Pigboy. And the devil girl--she must be like Speed Demon, or somebody--she ran around and I don't know -what- she did. But one of them Pigboys froze solid. Then the Dead Man got hit bad, and he flew across the street--all in a blur. Well, he charges forward, jumps right -through- the Glowing Man and like stabs the Pigboy totally hard. Pigboy didn't stand up again. Then the Man of Light, he flew right up to the other Pigboy and zapped him into next week." Of the five bystanders injured be the falling debris, four were treated on the scene by EMTs. The fifth, Benjamin Cruz, 34, of Arizona, was kept in the hospital overnight for observation. He was released early this morning. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/36 Posted Author CROP CIRCLE IN HYDE PARK! Sun Sep 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Late night parkgoers were terrorized last night by what appeared to be an attempt at an alien invasion. A large hole was described by an eyewitness as having been 'torn into space itself', which then nearly consumed two joggers and Ms. Lucita Fernandez, who was walking her dog at the time. The bystanders were prevented from vanishing into the portal by one of a pair of Powers that were nearby, who then proceeded to engage an apparent 'alien monster' in battle. Though none of the citizens present stayed to watch the fight itself, the creature was either destroyed or returned to its home dimension as no trace of it was found in the morning, nor has it been seen since. However, a perfect circle, approximately ten feet wide and forming a shallow depression roughly six inches deep, was found gouged into the park's grass marking the site of the disruption. It is believed by many of the eyewitnesses that this 'crop circle' may be related to other phenomenon found in the Midwest and England. Neither of the Powers involved have yet to be identified. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/37 Posted Author In the Real Estate Section: Sun Sep 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Local Residents Upset Over Hangar HARVEY - Housing bylaws designed to protect the neighbourhood from inappropriate housing don't cover airplane hangars, local residents discovered this week. The residence previously at 302 Union Avenue, a large American Colonial-style home dating back nearly a hundred years, was demolished two weeks ago and an airplane hangar was built in its place. "I can't believe this is legal," said a neighbour, who requested anonymity. "We pay our property taxes, and this is what we get for it? My property values have already dropped 3%!" Another neighbour, also requesting anonymity, questioned the purpose of the hangar. "Shipping trucks have been coming and going non-stop. Even once the construction team left, there's always a racket going on." Reporters were unable to reach the new property owner for comment. (OOC: Questions, comments, concerns -- page or @mail Josephine.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/38 Posted Author ALIEN BUGS ATTACK ARCADE Sun Sep 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Eden Endway arcade was the scene of an attack by mysterious insectoid beings last night. According to eyewitnesses, the creatures appeared in the midst of the arcade hall in a flash of strange light. Six-armed and bearing deadly claws, they were described by several witnesses as "creeper bugs". Almost immediately, the crowds in the arcade fled the scene, calling for help. Security guard Alphonse Davis, 52, entered the arcade to investigate and was almost immediately waylaid by one of the insect creatures and taken hostage. Two Powers appeared shortly after this, confronting the three insect monsters and defeating two of them in hand-to-hand combat. The last of the three bugs was talked into surrendering to the authorities by one of the two heroes. "Its our belief that these creatures simply panicked after being teleported into the arcade," a police spokesman said in a conference this morning. "Screaming kids and all these strange machines must've triggered some sort of 'fight or flight' response. We're very grateful for the Powers' intervention and the relatively peaceful resolution to the situation." The policeman refused to comment on where the insect aliens were being held. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/39 Posted Author Channel 431 News: Uncommon Grounds Sun Sep 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ On Sunday, September 21 at just after Noon at the Uncommon Grounds, a popular coffee shop in Oak Park, the serenity of the quiet gathering point was shattered by an alleged robbery attempt, committed allegedly by the relative newcomer brother/sister duo of Rock and Roil. Rock and Roil entered the establishment and immediately demanded all cash, jewely and wallets of the staff and all customers. Witnesses report the two threatened to kill those inside if they resisted in any way, but their plan was disrupted by the intervention of a group of Powers who happened to be in the establishment at the time. Rock, who is known to have the ability to use any nearby concrete, rock and soil to both attack and defend himself with, and Roil, who is known to fly and release fiery energy blasts, immediately tried to go on the offensive, but according to witnesses they were put down quickly in embarrassing fashion by the Powers therein. Confirmed Powers at the site include Freyja, the well-known Norse goddess; Nisteia, a well-liked speedster; and Shiva, who's powers are as yet not catalogued reliably, Also present were newcomers Rev. de Porres and Amini, reputed to be an Amazonian or of a similar culture. There was also one unidentified Power, who is described as having powers similar to those of Eclipse. Another previously unknown power is being called by witnesses, "Mindstorm," an apparent referrence to some psychic phenomenon that occurred at the end of the battle. The owner of the Uncommon Grounds establishment reports that damage was minimal with the exception of their industrial refrigerator unit, which was a complete loss, one table and some cement. Police report that there were no civilian casualties, and the wounded Rock and Roil were taken into custody by a retrieval unit from The Pound. <> ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/40 Posted Author OtV: In Lighter News ... Sun Sep 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ After weeks and months of renovation, local company Indefinia Inc - a specialties dealer of numerous disparate but auspiciously timed products - has announced that their planned expansion will be completed by the end of the month. "It's been our plan to form a loose circle of branches about the city," spokeswoman Bethany Gable explains, then adds, "well, almost - obviously, we're not looking to end up in the lake. It was a lot of work: our operations require pipe-lines from locale to locale, but I think our customers will find the difference astonishing." Gable went on to talk about the opening gala for what she called the capstone of the whole project, a newly restored central office featuring an enormous array of upgrades from commissioned artwork to three in-house restaurants. The gala, open to the public, also serves as a fundraiser for several local charities. Reclusive CEO Rebecca Paine will be in attendance, marking the first time in exactly eighteen months there has been a reliable report of her appearance in public. (From the Business Section of the Crucible City Enquirer. Any comments or questions, @mail Magik.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/41 Posted Author A Brief Note in the Art Section Tue Sep 23 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Contemporary artist Benjamin Cruz, known primarily for his 'armature' and 'portals' series of sculpture, arrived in Crucible City talking of Neo-Formalism and the remergence of the classical line. After only five days in the city, according to Giselle Freeman of G Free Galleries, his interests changed: he began developing plans for site-specific work based on people with transnormal powers. His research into this field has apparently been conducted with more enthusiasm than sense, though. Four days after being hospitalized for injuries sustained at a powered battle in the theatre district, he finds himself once again in Ingalls Memorial Hospital. "If not for his initial injury, he would have been treated on the scene," Dr. Aoyama, who is treating Cruz, said. "But a concussion can be a tricky thing--and his second injury was sustained at the precise location of the first. Still, we expect a quick and complete recovery." Cruz was apparently caught in the crossfire of a powered fight in Chinatown. There were reports of several of the Shanghai Knights battling what one witness called 'Squids from Planet R.' No more details are available at this time. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/42 Posted Author New Principal Wed Sep 24 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ <> The Crucible City Board of Education is proud to announce that Doctor Mary Katherine O'Brannon has agreed to take the position of Principal at Welding High School. Doctor O'Brannon, a respected Historian and Archaeologist comes to Welding High School from the University of Crucible City. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/43 Posted Author FLATBED STOLEN Wed Sep 24 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A flatbed truck owned by Magnita Corporation was hijacked and stolen early this morning. Magnita Corporation is known to have ties to the Defense Department, though they have released a statement saying that the contents of the semi were 'building materials'. A reward of $10,000 is offered for information leading to the arrest of the culprits. (Interested? You know the deal. @mail Forge with what you do.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/44 Posted Author Four White Jags Stolen! Wed Sep 24 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ << OOC: Just a small notice in some of the local papers. This is part of the Suicide by Fire/Firebug TP! It is currently full up, but feel free to investigate/whatnot anyways. You just can't be part of any of the upcoming Big Scenes(tm) so as to keep She-Hulk sane and happy. ;) >> In other news, four brand new Jaguars of the 2003 XKR Convertible Onyx White variety were stolen from A & P Motor Services in Hyde Park. Each car is estimated to be worth at least $89,000, and the exact means of theft is unknown though the thief is strongly suspected of having preternatural abilities. More worrisome is that the police found signs that it might have been made by the villain commonly referred to as 'The Firebug', though official commentary has yet to be released.. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/45 Posted Author OtV: Illegal Labatory Closed! Thu Sep 25 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Last night, a laboratory involved in unspecified research of nature "hazardous to civilians" - according to the official report - was uncovered and promptly shut down, through the aid of a group with ties to the Shanghai Knights, among others. Rumors state that Bethany Gable, of Indefinia Inc, was involved, but the truth of this - and the extent to which these actions were known by her superior, company CEO Rebecca Paine - has not yet been released to the press. Neither were available for comment. (From the Crucible City Enquirer. Inquires or follow-ups, mail to Magik.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/46 Posted Author Random Acts of Violence? Thu Sep 25 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Today in Hyde Park, there was a random attack upon the populace. Luckily, there were heros there. Notable Hero of Crucible City, GloryHound, was there, helped by Chance, and another member of the Dawn Patrol. "I was lucky to be in the area, though, it hardly seemed all that neccissary, thanks to the quick work of Chance, who thought to change BlackJack's clothing to steal. Ingenious! It will be my good fortune to work with her again, the Fates willing!" commented GloryHound at the scene. Police were called in to take the criminals into custody, as they had been safely set aside. "We are indeed greatful to the Dawn Patrol, and GloryHound for their help in this matter. It is our sincere hope that such things will no longer continue, because of the quick work of those who insist on doing good." commented Captain Stephan Graves, later. On a side note, BlackJack is already out on bail. Gordan Drevstats, noted defense lawyer had this to say about his client, "Mr. BlackJack, as he likes to be called, was in no way threatening anyone. He, in fact, did nothing wrong, until he was threatened by the Dawn Patrol. If we need to take this to civil court, we shall indeed!" This story was posted in the Crucible City Sun-Times, written by Sheryl Hartman ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/47 Posted Author Violence on Wabash Avenue Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This is a special report regarding vigilante activity in South Side. Growing rumors for the past year have had a shadowy figure dispensing street justice to alleged drug dealers, pimps and gang members all across the Wabash Avenue area. A senior city law enforcement official, speaking on condition of anonymity, was quoted as saying that the criminal elements of the Wabash area are terrified of the masked vigilante they refer to as Stalke. This vigilante, whom the police consider an unstable, dangerous criminal in his own right for his vigilante activities, has so far exhibited no Powers, instead relying on preternatural stealth, agility, and an "amazing level of martial arts training." The attacks on alleged criminals began perhaps a year ago, but have become more frequent in recent weeks. Typically, the police are notified via payphone that criminals are "dealt with" - a key phrase used repeatedly - and on arrival one or more alleged criminals will be found beaten unconscious. So far, no one has been killed. Police caution, however, that the victims of Stalke's attacks have been badly beaten, and consider it a matter of time before there is a serious injury or fatality. Despite the strong statements regarding this "Stalke" and his vigilantism, no warrant has been issued for arrest and no reward posted for capture. At this time, police state that he is wanted "for questioning only," but that people should simply call police if they spot him Stalke, due to his capacity for violence and the potential threat this would pose for any who tried to capture him. Speaking to locals of Wabash Avenue, however, reveals a different sentiment. Sergey B., an area resident, agreed to speak with us, again on condition that we not use his full name. "I think he is a gift to this community," Sergey said. "It is high time the police started protecting the rights of the good people of this community, rather than those criminals who have poisoned the whole neighborhood with their drugs and prostitutes and drive-by shootings. God bless you, Stalke! Keep taking out the trash, man!" Police have no suspects as to the identity of the vigilante, Stalke. We will continue to report on this story, should further developments occur. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/48 Posted Author TW: Sword-Point Wedding! Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the latest news of the weird ... An armored woman who later identified herself proudly as Cutter-of-Threads burst into St. Agnes in Chinatown this afternoon, interrupting a peaceful wedding with the proclamation that she had been told by the hand of fate herself that the bride and groom should not be joined in matrimony. Waving a fire-edged sword, she ordered the priest to halt the ceremony, which was when representatives of the Shanghai Knights barged in, along with a mad mystic, a winged angel - very appropriate in a chapel! - named Seraphim, and an elegant woman armed with iron fans. But mad-women do not work alone, and the Cutter quickly leapt into unnatural speed - aided by recent escapee Timewriter, a "seer" whose proclamations of destiny were left scrawled in blood on the walls of the local prison. Though the very tides of time were halted for a moment, the brave actions of the group - and a loud-speaker announcement accompanied by music - turned the course of the fight, and the Cutter jumped the bride as a hostage. She was subdued, but Timewriter vanished on the winds. Unmasked, the Cutter was identified as UCC student Monique Alton, a transfer and a veteran fencer. How she came into the possession of either the armor or the sword - which has been positively identified as a hex-blade, ever-so-obligingly leaked to yours truly - is unknown. (Posted in the Crucible City Spyglass. Inquires or follow-ups to Magik, please.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/49 Posted Author CEREMONY DISRUPTED Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Today the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new Kent Industries lab complex, here in the South Side of Crucible City, nearly ended in tragedy. Hostile robots of unknown origin interrupted the ribbon-cutting and attacked Mason Kent, the well-known industrialist and head of Kent Industries, as he gave a speech at the ceremony. The attack was completely unexpected, the robots leaping down from the building under construction in a flurry of smoke bombs and ninja stars. Eyewitnesses confirmed that these throwing stars were actually in the shape of swastikas, suggesting a connection to neo-fascist forces rumored to be at work to undermine liberty even now. Fortunately, Mr. Kent escaped the initial attack, and the robots were destroyed by the combined efforts of veteran power-heroine American Justice, the mysterious personage known only as 'The Hanged Man,' and other power-heroes who happened to be in attendance at the ceremony. Also present for the ribbon-cutting was the noted industrialist Werner Von Stahl, who, contrary to the usual behavior of businessmen, fought alongside the power-heroes with an automatic assault weapon. A spokesman for Kent Industries had this to say when asked if the robot attack was going to negatively impact Kent Industries stocks: "We here at Kent Industries are confident that our stockholders will have nothing to fear from this unprovoked attack, and we would like to take this moment to assure all potential customers that when they deal with Kent Industries, they are dealing with a business which takes a very dim view of robot attacks. In fact, in all the years of our operation in Crucible City and elsewhere, we have never suffered a fatality due to Nazi robot ninjas. Kent means quality! You can believe in a company like Kent Industries..." (The talking head goes on like this for some time, and there is no more information worth knowing in the article.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/50 Posted Author MYSTERIOUS STAIN IN LAKE Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (A small article in the 'Local News' section of the paper) Friday, 9/26 - Crucible City police found themselves puzzled this morning over what appeared to be a large quantity of blood in Lake Michigan near the south shore. The red stain was reported by a jogger just after dawn, and the area was cordoned off for three hours while a diving team investigated. Detective Peter Johndrow reported that there was no obvious source for such a copious amount of blood in the water. "At this point, we're not ruling out the possibility of a chemical spill or illegal dumping. Samples are being sent to the lab for further analysis." There was some speculation that this incident may be related to several recent deaths in the lakeside parks, but police could neither confirm nor deny that rumor. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/51 Posted Author CGV: ARSON RAGED IN CHINATOWN Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A fire swept through Chinatown today, spreading from Sheng's Laundry to two nearby buildings, Asen Apartments and the Chinatown Free Clinic. Authorities state that the fires were successfully defeated thanks to the help of nearby Powers-- Junkyard Dragon, Longbow, Patter and Tien Lung, as well as a local pedestrian named Celandine Carling. While there were injuries, no one lost their life as a result of the blaze. A thorough examination of the premises by the Crucible City Fire Department revealed in a report released to the press that an explosive device of strange manufacture was found within the building and that investigations into the incident are ongoing. (Posted in the Crucible City Tribune-- Questions? @mail Forge) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/52 Posted Author Capitol Beat Fri Sep 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ...In other news, Congressmen Bill Kirby of Iowa and Congressmen Eli Whitby of Texas proposed new legislation over the use of American airspace. "Our greatest concern is, as always, the safety of the American people and our allies all over the world. The skies and low-earth orbit around our planet have become rife with all sorts of hazards, both man-made in the form of debris, and natural. How many Powers zoom across the sky without filing so much as a flight plan? Much less being licensed! It's a safety hazard, and I and my fellow representatives fully intend to bring this matter before the FAA and NASA both. Why, just yesterday we had people calling in from all over Illinois as a shooting star seemed to descend right into the middle of downtown Crucible City. How can we tell what's falling from our skies if friendly Powers don't bother to let us know what they're doing?" John Mills, a spokesperson for the Federal Aviation Administration, had this comment to offer: "It's highly unrealistic to imagine that one individual in flight could cause serious problems for aviation in our country. After all, one assumes that if a Power is flying around, they might notice a 747 bearing down on them and have the good sense to get out of the way." Further inquiries on behalf of this reporter have determined that last night's 'shooting star' was merely a local Power, Fortunada, de-orbiting. Fortunada has been inactive for several years and only recently appears to have returned to the Power scene in Crucible City. NASA offered no comment, stating research security concerns but promising a press release shortly. << Questions can come to Gabriela >> ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/53 Posted Author Explosion, Deep Six involved? Sun Sep 28 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ At midnight, residents of Skokie were awoken to the sounds of a large explosion. Witnesses to the event saw what appeared to be a rift opening in the middle of the street and then they spotted several rotting corpses thrown out. To their horror the bodies began to rise and look around it was then that a final figure arrived from the void. Witnesses describe him as a young man dressed in dark clothes with his hair pulled back into a long braid. He went to work dispatching the zombies in a mixture of rapid shots fired from a hand crossbow and blinding punches he made quick work of the undead. Before the witnesses he pulled a small device from his belt and fired a rope to a rooftop swinging off into the night could question him. The zombie minions as well as the hero apparent puzzle the authorities. Deep Six is naturally suspected though as of yet no proof to their involvement has surfaced. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/54 Posted Author Classified Ad Sun Sep 28 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUNDING SOUGHT Professor Sebastian Aquarius seeks funding for the establishment of charitable housing for time-travellers, dimension-hoppers, aliens, and other non-residents of our world who have entered into our city unsuspecting of what they might find; in exchange, knowledge of other worlds, times, and species' will be gathered on behalf of the University of Crucible City. Contact Dr. Aquarius at XXX-XXXX or Aquarius@crucibleonline.net. (OOC: @mail Sebastian) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/55 Posted Author Trouble on the South Side Mon Sep 29 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ South Side: Crucible City Last evening, several powers congregated on what was supposed to be an abandoned warehouse, drawn by the rumors of strange things happening there over the last few months. It is reported that inside they heard a scream. Entering the building, the Junkyard Dragon, and three other vigilantes entered the warehouse to be confronted by a battlesuit of some kind. The men were able to stop it, only to find that the battlesuit was not a robot, but that there was a man beneath it. After an ambulance was called in to take the suit calling itself GearHead to the Power Containment Facility known as the Pound, Police released this statement: "It appears that three months ago, Albert Ernstein started building a battlesuit to help him become a vigilante to avenge the death of his sister durring a Powered Crime Attack. There was a problem with the suit. It has been determined that the AI within the suit decided it was more effcient, and fused the suit to the man's body, and implanted it's personality into the man's mind. Albert Ernstein was a graduate student at UCC working on his Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering. However, his projects have been graciously put on hold by the university and his grant money frozen, until such a time as it is possible to seperate man and machine." The Gibbons Powered Containment Facility had no comment at the time as to what they are doing to help the man. Crucible City Tribune, Sept. 29, 2003 ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/56 Posted Author HOSTAGES SAVED FROM BRIGADE! Mon Sep 29 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The South Side Bowden Arms building complex was the scene of a bloody hostage-taking incident late last evening. During a XerxesCorp executive meeting to discuss renovating the decades-old complex, a trio of heavily armed helicopters landed on the broad roof, depositing more than a dozen men armed with automatic weapons. The men quickly took the building hostage, shooting and killing two security personnel in the process; Gus Galianos, 45, and Mary Engles, 32. The armed force, later identified as members of the infamous "Black Brigade" mercenary team, gathered two dozen hostages into the executive meeting room. Crucible City Police responded immediately to the scene, but found attempts to negotiate with the hostage-takers futile and several probes around the building were immediately fired upon. Relief came several minutes into the crisis when a mixed group of Powers arrived. The power-armored Blitzkrieg and flying Russian heroine Lady Atom were among their number, though it is believed at least one other unidentified Power was on the scene. According to eyewitnesses and police reports, the Powers made quick work of the vehicles of the Brigade before storming the building via the roof access door. While gunfire was exchanged in the ensuing assault, the only three reported casualties were three of the Brigade mercenaries, each of whom were slain by timely shots by SWAT snipers. All twenty four hostages were freed, with only a handful suffering minor injuries. Explosions were seen coming from the parking garage level of the building during the assault, but police refused to comment on what caused them. "We're very grateful for the assistance of the Powers in this incident," Police Captain Alphonse Marko stated after the last hostages were freed. "This 'Brigade' has shown itself to be a very ruthless and well-equipped organization. Without the Powers, it could've been a long, desperate standoff." Marko refused to comment on what possible motive the Brigade could have in their hostage-taking. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/57 Posted Author ROBBERY AVERTED! Tue Sep 30 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Yesterday a small group of heroes stopped a robbery of Bob's Diamond Exchange in the South Lake Shore. The robbers were bipedal alligators who came in, broke open the cases grabbing as much as they could and ran. The heros swooped down on a surfboard witnesses say. After a quick battle the stolen merchandise was recovered and one of the alligators was captured and held until police arrived. The other made its escape by leaping through grant park and into the lake. The captured alligator was taken to Gibbons Containment Facility, but was quickly released when a lawyer, Gary Andrews, representing its guardian provided proof of its juvenille status and had the case sent to family court. The alligator was released to its guardian as a first time offender until the hearing. The alligators name cannot be released due to its juvenille status. At a conference after the transfer to family court Mr Andrews stated, "Youngsters like my client often make poor choices, we plan to show the family court that he has a good home life and that this is just a case of alligators will be alligators." (Any questions @mail Darryl) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/58 Posted Author Headless Cav. Haunts South Side! Tue Sep 30 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The South Side of Crucible City was once again the scene of horror and violence tonight, but in a very unusual way. The legend of the Headless Cavalier has long been thought a gruesome French fairy tale, until recently when he began showing up in Crucible City, where he has perpetrated a monthly murder spree against our populace. Tonight must have been his "time of the month", as many residence on the South Side made frantic calls into 911 reporting sightings of the ghostly, headless rider charging down streets astride his zombified steed, seeking out a victim. On this night, his intended victim was one Joshua Bethune, 16, high school student and self-proclaimed witch. As police and reporters arrived on the scene to find out what was happening, all they found was Mr. Bethune, who had a wild story to tell: "It was crazy.. I was walking home from a... a party, yeah. I was alone, because being in the dark and quiet helps me think, y'know? Anyways, I was walking along, when all of a sudden I hear this horrible scream behind me, and the sound like a horse is galloping down the street. I turn around, and I see this expletive deleted headless horseman coming right at me with this huge expletive deleted sword! He's all cackling, and so I freak out, right? I take off running down the street, but I /know/ he's getting closer, and I'm thinking I'm /so/ dead!" Mr. Bethune goes on to tell the story about how he was saved from what would have been a horrible end by timely intervention from four of Crucible City's Powered citizens: "So I was totally running my head off, and I feel this guy right behind me. All of a sudden, I see some people walking down the street and I think 'maybe if I run by them, he'll kill them instead of me!'. I know that totally sucks, and probably earned me some serious bad karma, but I was desperate, ya know? Anyways, two of them dive into an alley, wanting no part of me, and suddenly this big truck turns and skids to a halt, blocking my path! I tried to get into it, but the door was locked. I think I peed myself, even. I figured 'this is it'." "Anyhow, suddenly American Justice was there! Also, from inside the truck, this friggin'(sic) HUGE tank-looking robot steps out of the truck, and it spoke to that headless dude in... I think German, or something. There was also this doctor guy.. at least I think he was a doctor, he seemed more like a mad scientist, but even /he/ was standing up to Mr. Headless." "Okay. Okay... So then, the headless guy did something.. used some kinda ghostly fear spell, or something... and at that point I think I wet myself /again/. Even American Justice looked scared for a second there! Then suddenly, American Justice friggin'(sic) knocks the horseman senseless with that bronze sword of hers, and the Horseman swings back, but she blocks it! Outta nowhere then, the horseman just /exploded/, like he was hit with a grenade! I couldn't believe it!" "After it was dead... and I don't know how it could be dead, since it was already dead to start with, the other three that got between me and the headless guy, even American Justice, thanked this dark-haired chick that I never saw before. Kinda cute, now that I think about it. They said /she/ killed him, but I never heard her name, because I was /so/ getting outta there before that headless freak came back!" ... And there you have it. The legend of the Headless Cavalier states that he attacks about once a month. It looks like this month, Crucible City can breathe a sigh of relief, as no victims were claimed thanks to the efforts of four Powered heroes that included American Justice, a man in power armor, a mad scientist, and a dark-haired girl. Of course, that also means that our headless fiend should be re-appearing sometime around Halloween... ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/59 Posted Author CITY UNDER ATTACK! Tue Sep 30 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribune -- SPECIAL EDITION!) The city of Crucible came under attack in the late afternoon hours by Commodore Reginald Mason, known to the world as LORD SKYE. Skye, commanding his legendary airship the Victory, apparently meant to melt the city's landmarks through the use of a giant solar lens which focused the light of the sun into a deadly ray of infernal destruction. Skye was assisted in his assault on the city by dozens of rocket-powered assault troopers who fired missiles into crowds and vehicles, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Just as the Commodore's solar beam was striking the Sears Tower, however, the Dawn Patroller known as Solstice put her body between the beam and the earth, somehow intercepting its energy and redirecting it back up at Skye's airship. Meanwhile, the heroes Knight Errant and Remix (see photo) battled the Commodore's Rocketeers while Photon (additional photo) braved a hail of anti-aircraft fire to attack the Victory by himself. Damage to the city has been confined to the downtown area and to O'Hare international airport, which was the target for several Rocketeer bombing raids. Airport officials confirmed that casualties there were light, with no fatalities, but flights are not expected to resume until tomorrow afternoon at the soonest. In downtown, however, twelve people were killed and dozens injured from missile and the heat ray itself, which ignited cars and melted buildings in a line 75 feet across leading from the Lake to the Sears Tower. Many other Powers in the city rose to defend the people of Crucible, performing rescue operations and engaging the Rocketeers until the solar ray was destroyed and Skye signalled a withdrawal. His airship was concealed by clouds and his current whereabouts are unknown. Commodore Reginald Mason is a renegade explorer and British lord whose stated goal is the recreation of the Empire at its height -- the Victorian period. An inventive genius and eccentric madman, he has battled Powers singly and in teams for decades, never coming close to his goal. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/60 Posted Author Mass Murder at Marvelo's! Wed Oct 01 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ << OOC: Though outdone to the front pages by the terror unleashed from the skies (see the 'CITY UNDER ATTACK' posting), this bit of news still makes it through each and every newspaper. Contact She-Hulk if you feel your character should be able to get access to the gory (and I mean gory, here, people: do NOT contact me if you're not up for uber-dark stuff) details.. Please note that the Suicide by Fire TP is closed, meaning you can be involved in the outskirts but not in any of the Big Scenes(tm). >> Just past midnight on October 1st, the groundskeepers in Marvelo's Junkyard were alarmed by a sudden smell and then sight of toxic clouds of smoke billowing in throughout the premises. Quickly discovering the source to be four white Jaguars, otherwise pristine, inexplicably placed in the center of the grounds the proceeded to douse out the fire. Discovering human remains within, they then promptly alerted the police. Information has yet to be released officially, but sources within the police head quarters tell of gruesome things that pinpoint the murderer to be none other than the 'Firebug' that's been chased after for so long by both mundane law and heroic preternaturals. Another paper is able to give the names of the victims along with the fact that 'all were young newly wed women who were pregnant with or still nursing their firstborn, enlargening the tragedy and horror. When will this monster be caught?' Miranda Owens, 22. Erica Bailey, 31. Irene Underhill, 17. Sara Zeltig, 26. Cathryn Oakes, 24. Misty Evers, 28. Belinda Atkins, 23. Carrie King, 19. Angel Owens, 3 months, Lilac Zeltig, 6 months, Melissa Oakes, 4 months, Tina Atkins, 7 months, Mercedes King, 2 months. Missed by and grieved for by their loved ones. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/61 Posted Author Bank Robbery Gone Bad! Wed Oct 01 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Horror erupted in LaSalle Bank on N. Wells St. in the form of a bank robbery gone awry. The Ravagers, a hard hitting mercenary team led by Mxamillian Venture, found their efforts stymied by the quick response of heroes on the scene. Unfortunately, things went from bad to worse with the appearance of Chinatown's own Tien Lung. Once again, the big, blue dragoness was caught on film engaging in acts that can only be considered less then heroic. Tien Lung AKA Celestial Dragon is shown here licking her claws after tearing out the throat of Kendall Kruger a member of the Ravagers. <> Here we have a rather candid shot of Tien Lung breaking Maxamillian Venture's spine over her knee. <> The heros on the scene--Including The Secret and an Unknown Swordsman--attempted to keep Tien Lung from leaving the scene. Unfortunately for Crucible City, the big, blue Dragoness managed to evade their attempts and escape via teleportation. Reports from the Crucible City Police Department inform this reporter that Tien Lung has already contacted their department and appears to have a firm alibi for the times of the robbery. One has to ask themselves, however, if someone is cloning Crucible City's heros? What could possibly be next? Currently, the police are holding four members of the Ravagers caught after having surrendered at the scene of the crime. Mr. Venture is currently under police protection while in Crucible City's Memorial Hospital. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/62 Posted Author BAKUSO PRESIDENT ATTACKED! Wed Oct 01 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The President-For-Life of the African nation Bakuso, Colonel Adi Falassi, was the target of a kidnapping attempt late last night. Having secretly come to Crucible City's Bakuso Embassy for as-yet unspecified diplomatic business, Falassi was sought out by a group of four unidentified Powers. After silently killing the six embassy guards on the grounds, the Powers assaulted the third floor of the building, blowing out one wall. Colonel Falassi was in the clutches of the Powers when several local superheroes responded to the situation. Tenatively identified as Lady Atom and "a really, really big guy", these Powers confronted the would-be kidnappers and defeated them. The terrorist Powers escaped the scene, however, leaving Falassi behind. Bakuso's president was quickly escorted from the scene under federal protection as the CCPD cordoned off the area. According to Tribune sources, it is believed that the kidnapping attempt was instigated by the Bakuso Liberation Front, a resistance movement in the tiny, war-torn country. Colonel Falassi has been a controversial figure on the world scene ever since the 1998 coup d'etat that put him in power. Civil war and guerilla warfare have been ongoing ever since, with the BLF the main opposition to Falassi's rule. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/63 Posted Author Ruby Star takes down Bouncing New Wed Oct 01 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "...down .5 points." The balding anchor taps his pencil as he takes a breath. "In other news, the small time hero known as Rebound has been hospitalized with multiple concusions after being attack out of the blue by the one time side kick "Ruby Star." The camera cuts to a rather plump african american woman with white hair, a black purse clutched to her chest and a warm smile. "Oh, that poor baby. He was just savin' my purse from this no good man who was tryin' to steal it. Such a nice boy. He gave'me back my purse and jumped just like a cricket. Way up high. That boy can jump." The smiles again as she makes the motion with an old shakey hand. "Then, there was a red flash...and smack. The poor darlin' was just fallin' from where she ran him into a building." The camera flashes to a large metalic girder that has been dented. "This big....Stoooooong man caught him and took him somewhere safe. Then that hussy started kickin' and punchin' all the people that was tryin' ta help. This nice young man with a mask just like Zorros ended up knockin the woman upside the head. I can't say I like seein' a nice young man hittin' a lady. But she was no lady...she was no good. Just like my son-n-law's daughter...Mandy Jen-" The camera cuts off and the Anchor man is once again the focus. "Rebound is expected to recover with minimal problems. A thanks of the city to the masked man known as Stalke and to the large man that saved a life." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/64 Posted Author Nazi Attempts University Kidnappin Wed Oct 01 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A brief battle erupted on the quads of the University of Crucible City today, as a blonde german woman reputedly attempted to escort off the grounds a Professor Albert Quarnstrom, from the Theoretical Physics department. The scene was rather confusing according to eye-witnesses, with a great deal of teleportation utilized, but apparently two members of the faculty demonstrated their -own- abilities in attacking the woman - blasts of radioactive fire and some unidentified energy were unleashed, causing some minor damage to the landscape. The woman, who was referred to as a 'Nazi' by one observer - though no paraphenalia relating to the Third Reich was visible - was not reported to demonstrate any remarkable abilities other than an unnatural agility and being seemingly impervious to harm. Her identity is unknown, as she escaped the custody of the Powers attacking her. The Professor has disappeared since this incident, though university administration reports that he is well and simply keeping out of the public eye for the moment. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/65 Posted Author INTERSTATE MAYHEM! Thu Oct 02 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The interstate exit near Bradbury Avenue was the scene of a deadly attack yesterday evening. As rush hour traffic slowed around the freeways winding through Crucible City, a mysterious cloud appeared over the Bradbury offramp, casting a shadow over dozens of vehicles. Shortly after hovering over the scene, the cloud unleashed a force of more than a dozen robotic attackers described by some as "roboninjas". These machines assaulted a tractor-trailer semi truck carrying a load of parts for Stahl Heavy Industries, ripping open the trailer and knocking the driver unconscious. Before the strange thieves could make good their getaway, however, several Powers appeared to try and stop them. Witnesses reported seeing several metahumans apparently "lose" their powers in the conflict, the apparent victims of an unknown neutralizing device wielded by the roboninjas or the "cloud" they arrived in. In spite of this setback, the Powers were able to stop the robotic thieves before they could return to the cloud-concealed vehicle. Fleeing the scene, the cloud-vehicle directed several energy blasts at the interstate offramp, toppling it. Eleven vehicles fell in the ensuing ruin, resulting in three deaths and numerous injuries. Authorities and eyewitnesses credit the aid of several Powers in preventing the disaster from having a higher number of casualties. Authorities refused to comment on the similarity of the roboninjas in the assault to those involved in a recent attack on a public event held by Kent Industries. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/66 Posted Author MAYHEM DOWNTOWN! Thu Oct 02 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ An article in the Crucible Sun-Times, Evening Edition: Earlier this afternoon, tragedy struck the respected art gallery of "Golden Frond". "several of our best works were taken, then incinerated! Oh, these poor artists, struggling to survive, and their works obliterated!" exclaimed Jaque deBoix propritor of the Golden Frond. According to authorities, a villianess calling herself "Razzle" dressed in an outfit described as "A Disco Ball in a Body Suit" entered the Golden Frond and just started taking what she liked. When she was confronted, she set off a light and noise display to rival Chinese New Year. Making her way outside, there she was stopped by several Powers, some of which have been said to be Stalke and Blitizkrieg, not to mention Patter, and an unknown young woman. While Razzle was stopped, the blasts thrown by the unknown young woman, destroyed the precious works of art. "It is unfortunate," said the Mayor, "But that is why there is the Powers Tax on the city. The insurance purchaced from that tax will recompense the art gallery and artists for their property loss." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/67 Posted Author TW: The Secret Lives Of Campus Stu Thu Oct 02 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Campus student Martin August, "a thorough-going geek" according to one fellow student, known for his predilection for long periods locked in his room, apparently attempted to rally the student body to the cause of a woman he claimed was the hand of fate. When heckled, August snapped, and despite the attempts of Professor Aquarius (once a distinguished Power in his own right, now turned eminent teacher) and several students to calm him down, the situation soon degenerated into a fracas, where August turned out to be an adept manipulator of super-science. The Professor was shot in the struggle, protected narrowly by a field of energy from one of the participants, but the brave efforts of all involved brought the teenager to the ground, where he promptly vanished through use of unknown device. Apparently, the cause of August's fury was the display of Powers by a figure he appeared to recognize from some past vendetta ... a student identified by onlookers as none other than the well-known hero Quintessence! His connection to this previously mild-mannered youth is as yet unknown, but the campus buzzes with the news. (Found in the Crucible City Enquirer, with a further, lengthy gossip report on both public figures and their involvement in this altercation - much of it speculation, even more more fabrication - deeper inside the paper) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/68 Posted Author Threat Subdued! Fri Oct 03 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In what might be a return to the worse days for Crucible's South Side, a fight broke out between four gun-wielding men and two Powers. Gunfire was heard, and witnesses report that the shooters were the instigators of the fight, while a giant spider and a purple-glowing youth merely responded to the attack. The authorities responded swiftly once the culprits were downed, and no names have been released. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/69 Posted Author WAREHOUSE BREAKIN Sat Oct 04 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Last night a breakin at a warehouse in the Millgate District was stopped by a trio of powers. Witnesses say that Vix Vader, proprieter of the nearby Masks Club, a hero in greek garb, and one other as yet unidentified power responded immediately to an external alarm and were able to stop the robbers before they could make their getaway. The owners of the warehouse are not sure what the robbers might have been after. The perpetrators have been identified as large humanoid alligators and are related to those who attempted a robbery of a jewelry store earlier in the week. Their names have not been released due to their juvenile status and their lawyer, Gary Andrews, indicates this is nothing more than youngsters out having a good time. The case has been transfered to family court, but the police indicate they are not dropping the investigation and are looking into how the alligators guardian may be involved. The guardians name has not been released because he has not been charged with any crime at this time. At a press conference Mr Andrews indicated that any police comments about his clients or their guardian are speculation and that time will bear out the truth in this case. (Any questions @mail Darryl) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/70 Posted Author Tragedy at Charity Announcement Sat Oct 04 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Rush-Presbyterian Hospital, normally a bastion of safety and solace for the ill and injured, saw bloodshed upon its very doorstep this afternoon. Matilda Borson, noted fashion model and recent transplant to Crucible City, was there to announce the founding of a charitable organization to help victims of superpowered crime. Named the Vaughn Memorial Charity, it would aid those caught in the middle of conflicts between Powers. Unfortunately, shortly after her announcement, the villaness known as Kismet, as well as others that called themselves the "Faithful Four", intervened. After they brutally attacked a reporter that was interviewing Miss Borson, they made an effort to try and kidnap the young woman. Fortunately, they were stopped in the efforts of abducting Miss Borson by the well-timed efforts of the hero known as Eclipse, of Dawn Patrol, as well as a cadre of other Powers, some of which have been seen frequenting Chinatown. Including, to the surprise of some, a woman identifying herself as the Norse goddess 'Freya'. They fought the Faithful Four to a standstill, causing them to vanish via some means of teleportation. The reporter for the Herald is listed in serious condition, while Miss Borson is relatively unhurt, though she was escorted from the scene by the police to ensure her safety. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/71 Posted Author EXPERIMENTAL POWER PLANT STOLEN! Tue Oct 07 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Tribune) Federal authorities confirmed that the new Magneto-Electric Power Core scheduled for installation into the Dirkson Building was stolen yesterday by a previously-unknown Power criminal calling himself 'Schraubollzen,' or 'the Bolt.' There were no casualties, thanks to the swift action of three Powers who were on the scene. Malcolm Krupke, aka The Gigas, was helping to install the Power Core when the theft took place. Standing three stories tall and one of the strongest Powers in the country, Krupke was assisted by the self-proclaimed 'alien' known as Moonraider, who is believed to have been in the Federal Building on an unrelated matter. The cosmic hero known as Surf also materialized on the scene, but none of these Powers were able to stop the Bolt from making off with the new Power Core. Chief Scientist Nelson Parachek confirmed, "When that insane German blasted in here I thought he was going to kill me. He threatened to do that, unless the Gigas gave him the Core! Well, of course he did what was necessary. The machine can always be replaced. We've given Mister Krupke a substantial bonus for his service." When questioned about the Power Core, Parachek described it as a 'cutting edge technology' which draws power 'on a vast scale' from 'the earth's magnetic field.' There has been no comment on the intended use for so much power at the Dirkson building. PCU Captain Stephan Graves confirmed that his office was investigating any connection with other German Power criminals who have been sighted in recent weeks. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/72 Posted Author TW: In Minor News ... Tue Oct 07 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (This is found buried in the pages of a local community newspaper ...) A mysterious explosion destroyed a small section of Lake Michigan shore-front, including burying a ledge-and-cave popular with local youths. There is no word yet as to the cause, but locals claim glowing lights, and shards of super-technological devices have been dredged out of the lake. Further reports as developments surface. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/73 Posted Author TH: One Good Turn ... Fri Oct 10 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SUICIDE? IN LINCOLN PARK An apparent suicide by an unknown brunette yesterday afternoon brought kind souls to the rescue, but one good turn deserves another ... a bad one. Their attempts to halt her were followed by her abrupt disappearance and the arrival of another: a mysterious priest wreathed in bright light, trying to recruit them for a group that supposedly carried out the will of the divine. In posing as deity - or representative - the soft words of persuasion quickly turned to threats and violence, when he was joined by an armed comrade, making it obvious that the situation had been a trap ... one that backfired when the combined efforts of the would-be victims drove them both unconscious. The appropriate authorities picked the malefactors up, transported them part of the way ... and then were waylaid, the two figures and their rescuer vanishing into the fading light.. Both the priest and the shrouded teleporter are clearly part of a larger circle, but a practical investigation of the number of cults and splinter-groups in the region following similiar beliefs would be prohibitive. Certain key elements were questioned, to no avail. (An interior-page article in the Crucible City Enquirer. Questions, @mail to Magik, please.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/74 Posted Author STRANGE HEATWAVE Fri Oct 10 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Temperatures within Crucible City continue to remain high, in spite of the lateness of the season. While an 'Indian Summer' does happen from time to time within the city, it's growing stranger and stranger-- and more pronounced. The temperatures remain high-- near ninety, and the weather remains hot. Rainfall is minimal to nonexistent, which is another worry to some. Our meteorologist describes the phenomena... (Interested? @mail Forge if you think you can investigate) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/75 Posted Author A Rocket From the...Deep? Fri Oct 10 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ LAKE MICHIGAN - Early this evening, a startling - and my many accounts, wonderful - occurance took place just thirty miles off the southern shore of Lake Michigan. At approximately 6:30 PM, what witnesses describe as a spacecraft of alien origin rose from the waters to hang over some fifty yards over the surface. The craft, which is described as being cigar-shaped and set with very large fins; Dr. William Waltrip, a local retired art professor who witnessed the event upon his sailboat, described it as 'a fusion of the old serials of the 1930's with magnificent a baroque influence' From what this reporter can see, it looks more like something out of a Buck Rogers comic strip. No sign of activity has come from the strange starship, which spans approximately the length of a football field; by time of this printing the authorities had not yet come to investigate the extraordinary vessel. ( @mail Jack Hawthorne with legwork and/or any questions. ) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/76 Posted Author OtV: The Curtain Closes (long) Sat Oct 11 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Enquirer) The entire company of Indefinia Inc was shocked this morning by the discovery that their CEO, Rebecca Paine, her right hand Bethany Gable, and two premiere scientists Dorian and Diane Aclimenti had been apprehended not for commonplace crimes, but for an attempt to shake the very foundations of the earth and open a gateway to an unknown and all-devouring non-realm known as the Void. This archway had been disguised as part of the new renovations recently undertaken by the company, a project whose true purpose was known only to a select few. Indefinia had been recruiting super-scientists to refine the key element - the capstone - since early last year, and begun to greet unwilling recruits with violence and threats in the early summer. Powered criminal "Bloodrunner" was first implicated in just such an attempt. Shortly thereafter, Indefinia began testing much smaller versions of the arch to refine the power and capstone composition necessary. This remained a quiet endeavor until their attempts to reach "meta-dimensions" proved to be unstable, causing subsidiary rifts throughout the city and flooding Crucible with otherworldly visitors. Many local heroes both old and new worked together to subdue, welcome and rescue the mysterious arrivals. The first attempt at locking on the Void resulted in an extremely unstable portal opened in Addison. It would have devoured much more of the neighborhood but for timely intervention. The second attempt was moderately successful, but interrupted by two super-scientists who had schemed to trace the dimensional flares. The scientists captured knew little of the true purpose of their work and had in fact assumed it to be theoretical. The third attempt - flawless - blasted out a hill in the nearby countryside, but personnel issues got the malefactors apprehended before they could clear the scene. There was little further activity until the eve of the opening gala, when Paine called aside a small group of proverbial flies in the ointment to reveal her final plans. Over years and years, the woman had come to the conclusion that existence was a misery for all concerned, and lit upon the Void as a solution to it ... a global one. Her declaration that they could do nothing to stop it delivered, she vanished into the heart of the project, just below the Indefinia Inc building. The valiant - if misfit - group pursued, transported by the aid of a teleport matrix to the depths of the facilities. They are reported to have materialized directly on the highest curve of the arch, whereupon chaos - in the form of the hostile Paine, the Aclimenti twins, a fiercesome beast carved of Void-debris, and Gable - broke loose. One majestic figure weakened the arch with a mystical blow, and then another brought the house down ... literally, falling stone shattering the arch and leaving the heroes to the air. In a battle split between mid-air and the capstone, the others managed to destroy the Void-debris and subdue the villains. Diane Aclimenti is said to be "deeply remorseful." "One of them - he saved my brother," her reported statement runs. "Everything crumbling around us, and he said, 'No one dies.' And despite the magnitude of what we were trying to do, they - all of them - were at Paine's side when Bethany started screaming that she had to be revived or she would die ..." Preliminary investigation has revealed Gable to be a computer expert extraordinare who has edited every aspect of both her own and Paine's life. The threads have not yet been untangled, but it is known that Indefinia's former CEO apparently raised the woman and two other psionic Powers from the age of five. One is in custody; the other is currently at large. The future of the company is uncertain, suddenly robbed of both chain of command and surrounded by scandal of epic proportions. The heartfelt gratitude of this reporter and the paper goes to the brave souls who ventured into the lair of the beast and brought the city back from the brink of disaster. (Thanks to: Freyja, Junkyard Dragon, Nightbane, Catherine, Svetlana, Quintessence, Brass Monkey, Jeremy and Mac for on heck of a scene - thrills, chills and what I had planned over three days all in one! It was a wonderful finish, and folk were very patient with last-minute changes. Thanks also to everyone who participated in or ran an OtV scene, as well as those who showed up to the opening gala: I couldn't have asked for more. You probably haven't heard the last of Indefinia, but that's a way down the line ...) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/77 Posted Author Strange Nights On Wabash Ave Sun Oct 12 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In the Police reports section: Police were called to the corner of Wabash Avenue at 1am. According to witnesses they heard the sound of gunfire followed by thunder. Upon arrival on the scene the officers found two young men slumped against the wall of the Lippincott apartment building. A unregistered nine millimeter pistol was found on the scene. One of the youths, Tony Scott was heard to comment something about electric angels and shadow demons attacking himself and his associate Bobby Cruz. Mister Scott and Cruz are being held by the police due to outstanding warrants. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/78 Posted Author ASSAULT IN GREEKTOWN Sun Oct 12 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ An item in the 'Local' section of the Crucible City Tribune: Late Sunday evening a woman was accosted in Greektown. Eye witnesses disclosed that the three assailants appeared normal until they approached the as yet unidentified woman, at which point they manifested obvious powers--two turning into creatures of stone and the third displaying light-based abilities. Several Powers in the area responded immediately to the situation, including Lady Atom, Mindstorm, and a previously unknown Power with control over ice. The rumor that this woman uses the codename "Tsunami" is unverified. Another of the unknown woman's defenders was a three-headed dog that heavily resembled the Cerberus of Greek legend, a detail one witness called "Spooky." Preliminary inquiries so far lead the Crucible City Police to believe that the attackers are transients and were being controlled in some way, and are not actually Powers themselves. To the relief of nearby shop owners, the battle was brief and there was minimum of property damage. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/79 Posted Author Fear on Wabash Mon Oct 13 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Police this morning found three men hog-tied with zip ties and gagged with duct tape in an alley near the Lippincott Apartments. The police are not yet releasing the names of the victims, but it is speculated that one is a criminal managing a prostitution ring and that the other two are associates of his. Three 9mm semiautomatic pistols were found in a nearby dumpster. Police have not yet decided whether to press charges for weapons possession, confirmed via fingerprints, or any potential parole violations. An anonymous contact within the CCPD reports that the Wabash neighborhood vigilante known as Stalke was involved in this, as was an unidentified Power. Police speculate that vigilante activity is increasing on Wabash, as "Stalke" is not believed to be the individual responsible for the detention of Tony Scott and Bobby Cruz Saturday night. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/80 Posted Author In the Ads Section Mon Oct 13 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ An ad in the back of Crucible City Periodicals reads: Healer for Hire! Healer will heal any person or animal. Can cure any disease. Satisfaction guaranteed or money back. Contact Mae at 555-1234. (Drop me a @mail if you're interested in answeering the ad :) Mae. ) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/81 Posted Author No Guns In The Gym! Tue Oct 14 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This afternoon, a group of armed men and a cloaked woman later identified as Milady Greyson entered the famous Ben's Gym and attempted to either abduct or kill a young woman by the name of Regina Aurelia Paine, more commonly known as Reggi. The no-guns policy was quickly enforced by the Powers at training, who delivered a thorough drubbing to the thugs and the woman before she could land a proper shot with an obviously super-tech weapon. Further investigation reveals that Ms. Greyson was an employee of Indefinia Inc and that Regina has blood-ties to the recently arrested CEO of said company ... the precise rationale behind the attack has yet to be determined. (Article from the interior pages of the Crucible City Enquirer. Inquiries to Magik. No, don't expect big major things.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/82 Posted Author Sundry Big-bada-booms Tue Oct 14 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This morning, Shalehurst Technologies suffered a devestating loss when three previously unknown Powered criminals broke in, eluded the guards on duty with no casualties and nothing more than a few "nasty pecks" from the bird-like figure identified as Rebirth, and fried their central systems. According to the filed reports, the hit was swift, efficient and almost went undetected due to the use of illusion involved, and save for the trio's rather hasty retreat, some might have accused Shalehurst of attempting insurance fraud. Claims that former college student Martin August aka Retrofit was the crew's technician are unconfirmed, and the motives for this action are unknown. (Crucible City Enquirer - Inquiries to Magik.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/83 Posted Author Hate Crimes on the Upsurge Wed Oct 15 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Headline Reads: South Side Wracked by Racial Violence In the last few months there has been a dramatic upsurge in racial related violence in the poorer areas of the South Side. Some speculate that a new designer drug, 'The Storm' might be directly responsible, though the authorities have been unable to find any samples, nor have they found the distributor, believed to be a single source. Lower income and minorities have been the primary recipients of the drug said to 'enhance human performance', though Jesus Bolivar, age 19 didn't feel very enhanced. "See...this stuff, The Storm...la tormenta--it feels real good, joo get strong, joo get muy macho...but...when joo come down, joo come down hard." Mister Bolivar is currently in critical condition at Humana Hospital due to massive pulmonary failure. Fortunately his girlfriend was able to get him medical assistance in time to save his life. Tensions are very high, Storm users are often extremely violent, and with their augmented abilities, extremely dangerous. The question is -- who is the source and what do they want? Questions? @request to the Plot queue with The Storm in the header. :) /Miracleman ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/84 Posted Author BODY FOUND IN GHOST WOODS Wed Oct 15 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A body was found in the Ghost Woods in the northwest suburbs of Crucible City. Reports from the police are sketchy at this time, but recent findings reveal a few interesting issues. Apparently, the body is missing much of its neurological system... including the brain itself. Recent reports reveal that there have been disappearances in Crucible's poor community; police say that they are making inquiries. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/85 Posted Author Local Radio DJ Vanishes on the Air Wed Oct 15 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Headline: LOCAL RADIO HOST KIDNAPPED! The host of the popular late-night radio show broadcast from the UCC Campus, 'Ghosts of Midnight' disappeared during the broadcast of the show early Thursday morning. Witnesses claimed that the host 'disappeared in a flash of light,' which leads to belief that the abduction was Power-related. No suspects have been named at this time. The host, named as Jacob Bailey by the WCCU Administrative Staff, is a Freshman at CCU, and has been hosting the show since his admission to the University in late August. The late-night show has risen in popularity since its debut, the open discussion and call-ins from listeners sparking a lot of debate on and off the air. The show, hosted by Bailey, 19, has rarely shied away from the more hot-button topics, which has sparked calls from such powers as Detective Gail Windsor, Paragon, and Tien Lung. The lone witness to the disappearance was Daniel 'Dano' Cho, a Freshman Communications major who served as the producer/director for Bailey's broadcast at WCCU. "Everything was fine," says Cho, 18, a native of Crucible's Chinatown district. "Jacob was just about to close the show when he just started glowing. The glow, it got brighter and brighter, and then I could see again, he was just gone." The CCPCU has not yet released a statement on Bailey's current status or location, if known. (OOC: Questions? @mail Jacob and/or Isaac.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/86 Posted Author ASSULT IN THE PARK! Thu Oct 16 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Posted in the Crucible City Enquirer: Earlier this day, disgrunted and out of work artist Lee Frank, and a minor whose name has not been released, made the ill adviced choice of attacking some people in the park, who turned out to be Powers! Reports speak about a swarm of mosqitoes first attacking the giant Gigas. Then, it seemed the young boy attacked another man. A young woman helped with this attack, while the known member of the Shanghai Knights; Patter seemed to be dealing with something else not far away. While the battle seemed to be mostly one of illusions and mental attacks, Lee Frank, calling himself The Illustrator, and the minor calling himself FanBoy, were both subdued. However, that seems to be where things get odd. For after The Illustrator was wrapped up in a park bench, Patter attacked one of the other Powers with some sort of verbal snare, only to be knocked unconscious and turned over to the police when they arrived. The Crucible City Powered Crimes Unit would not make a comment on Patter's apparent involvement, but they did say this about the Illustrator and FanBoy, "Lee Frank has been struggling with finding jobs, as no one likes his work. FanBoy seems to have adpted Mr. Frank in a way and idol worships him. We believe that Mr. Frank, while his actions are deplorable is a victim of the economy, and the young minor was just impressionable and made some bad choices." Later, Patter gave a brief comment as she left Police Headquarters walking next to Captain Graves of the PCU, who seemed to do so in a quite show of faith and belief in the female Power. "I am truly sorry for any confusion and trouble I have caused. The Illustrator is a powerful illusionist, and I admit that I allowed myself to be misled by an image overlapping the man I mistakenly ensnared. I give my profuse appologies to him, and the others involved, to the Police, and to the people. It will not happen again, rest assured. I am here to help, not to hender." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/87 Posted Author BTW: The Storm in Crucible Fri Oct 17 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "BTW" Issue #276, October 16th, 2003-10-17 By the way, the week is past, and the shadow side of Crucible City has revealed itself to me. A drug has hit the streets, something called "The Storm." In the words of local poet laureate and addict, Jesus Bolivar, "it feels real good, you get strong, you get muy macho...but...when you come down, you come down hard." This drug apparently heightens physical abilities, often to superhuman levels. The problem being that the comedown is a complete failure of the body. Such a lovely thing to introduce to our streets. Who would do such a thing, you wonder? Well, it's obviously somebody who hates minorities, because it has never been sold to a Caucasian. Never. No police reports of such. No word on the streets. And it's sold by skinheads on bikes. Yes, dear reader, Crucible City, home of our heroes and site of the Event, is also home to no less than eight significant gangs of people whom this reporter would happily refer to as a waste of genetic material. Why is it that the defenders of a race always seem to be the worst examples of it? Our specific culprits appear to be members of the oh-so-fashionably named "Iron Dawn." These lovely chaps are a bunch of biker skinheads. Of course, where would a ragtag bunch of Neanderthals get the money for such an operation? The organization? All the leads point to yet another group, a group far more insidious, and like most true evils in our world, a group that is quiet and disguised. Though not very well-disguised, with the moniker of "Reich Now." Reich Now funnels money into various Christian and right wing organizations, and there are rumors they've supported the election of several politicians who back up their beliefs. I've even managed to trace funding going to Bob Jones University, though the paper trail is shaky. And all this points to one man: Mr. Hans Gruber, the shadowy figure behind Reich Now. Gruber! Yes, you! You fascist pig! Your organization has, by now, received word that I'll be camping out at your Crucible City office this Saturday, October 18th, from 6pm onwards. The public wants answers, Mr. Gruber, as to why you're flooding our streets with drugs that turn hapless junkies into Powered criminals, and then cripples them. Why you're organizing the Iron Dawn! And why you picked such a god-awful name as "Reich Now!" Do you have a little Hitler moustache, Mr. Gruber? Come on out and meet the press, Mr. Gruber. There's blood in the water, and we're coming to feed, you bastard. (OOC: Anybody who wants to sign-up for this scene as a spectator, please contact Miracleman before Saturday night - the exact time of the event will be posted today or tomorrow. Also, this article has been archived in the BTW folder at the Yahoo! group) Benjamin Tiberius Wright Jr. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/88 Posted Author The War on Wabash continues Fri Oct 17 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ October 17th, 2003 Police answered a call on Wabash avenue outside of the Lippincott apartment building. As the patrol cars arrived on the scene they were greeted by a strange sight. Patrolman Tony Franks, "We arrived on the scene and out of the alley where the shots were heard came this demon looking girl. I didn't know what to do at first, rattled me pretty badly." Sources inside the department gave the official statement of the one eye witness: 'I walk down the dark alley, on my way home to the apartment. Three men come then, asking me to go back to hell, but I do not come from this 'hell-place'. They do not listen, but they want to hurt me. I try to stop the man with the gun, but I could not. They attack, and I am hit hard by a very big man, who did grow bigger than he was first. Then, a dark clad man come and hit the big guy, knocking him down. From somewhere, someone is shooting silent bullets at this dark clad man. He knock the three out, and then disappears again.' When asked if the 'dark clad man' gave a name, the witness confirmed that it was the vigilante known as Jinx. Vince Bell is being held on charges of violating his parole for possessing the firearm found on the scene. Chris Perez is in intensive care, as a result of his injuries in the confrontation as well as the use of the drug called The Storm. Tony Williams is being held pending a full investigation. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/89 Posted Author Demonstration Turns Violent Sat Oct 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Enquirer, inner pages) A demonstration against Elwyne Cosmetics' animal testing proceedures turned ugly this morning when parties in the crowd began to throw rocks and bricks at the security guards on duty. The fracas was quickly subdued when the police arrived on the scene, and they detained four young people, all who happened to be members of a campus-based group known as the Hand. Further study of both eyewitness accounts and an independent camera footage, however, showed that though the initial assaults came from the general direction of the students, they were not the culprits. Valerie September, local track student and one of the Hand's spokespeople, is said to be extremely upset about the incident. "Targeted? There's absolutely no doubt in my mind," she has been quoted as saying. "I find it sad that the authorities looked at this situation with the blinders of prejudice on. We may have freedom of religion, but apparently that's not enough to free alternative choices from the burden of automatic suspicion. The entire mess could have been avoided." (Inquires, please @request to the Plot Queue.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/90 Posted Author Attack On Antiques Store Sat Oct 18 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (In the Crucible City Enquirer) The peace and quiet of a shop labelled quaint but "a veritible goldmine," Alexandretta's Antiques, was broken this afternoon when two previously unknown Powers attempted to make off with a specific piece of merchandise. The woman could only be identified as Foresight, a figure completely shrouded in veils of white, and the pallid and rather melodramatic man apparently dubbed Armageddon. Despite the Powered man quite literally lighting the entire shop on fire, they were thwarted in their efforts by four heroic figures: a pink-hued shapeshifter named Meeba, a young psi called Leon Steiner, ex-wrestler Vance "Vix" Vader, and a mysterious fourth named Stalke. However, the teleporting swordswoman swept herself and her partner away before they could be apprehended. Curiously, the item in question was a Native American necklace of turquoise and silver - a decided oddity amidst the largely European flavor of the antiques shop. The property damage in the incident was immense, but limited to the goods themselves. Thankfully, the flames were doused by Vader before they could cause any structural damage. Shop-keeper Eliza Alexandretta is unharmed apart from a bump on her forehead. (Inquiries, request to the Plot queue.) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/91 Posted Author Channel 5: Gruber Interview Sun Oct 19 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The television screens shows the Channel 5 anchor saying, "Tonight's top story. Ben Wright, on special assignment for Channel 5, was at a press conference held by Hans Gruber, head of the 'Reich Now' group, currently under suspicion for involvement with the street drug, 'The Storm.'" A small box in the corner of the screen, and expands to fill it. The image is of Ben Wright, in black trenchcoat, standing in front of a stage, where Hans Gruber stands in front of a podium, flanked by a muscular man and a beautiful woman, each obviously Powers. "This is Ben Wright, on special assignment for Channel 5 and the Associated Press. I'm here in front of the Reich Now building in Crucible City, where Hans Gruber, the head of Reich Now, will be answering to charges that he has been quietly distributing a drug dubbed 'The Storm' to minorities, and engaging in other activities designed to support his group's racist platform. 'The Storm' increases the efficiency of the users to a superhuman level, but with deadly side-effects to their nervous systems. Is this an attempt to wipe out minorities? Are there even darker plans in the works? That's what we're here to find out." He walks around, letting the cameraman pan the crowd. "As you can see, this event has sparked the interest of the news, several of our local heroes, and curious people. We want some answers." He finally circles back so the camera faces Gruber and his goons. Ben turns to face the podium. "Mr. Gruber," he calls out, "let me open the questions with a simple one: are you responsible for distributing 'the Storm' to the streets of Crucible City?" Gruber steps forward to the microphone on the podium and replies, "Absolutely not, Mister Wright. I am a simple businessman, and run an organization dedicated to peace, and community service. To actually /break the law/ is an unthinkable action." Now Wright smiles and asks, "I'm curious...is your organization at all connected to the group known as the Iron Dawn? A local gang of biker skinheads?" He takes a half-step towards the podium. "According to police reports, they've been the distribution wing of your...pardon me, I mean the group producing 'the Storm.'" The camera switches to Gruber, who smoothly replies, "In answer to your question, Mister Wright...there is no affiliation with the Iron Dawn, and Reich Now." Pan to Wright, holding up a sheaf of papers. "Mr. Gruber, these are employment records from Reich Now, forwarded to me by a source and verified with the State of Illinois' tax records." Gruber's face, with an expression of surprise. Back to Wright. "Over a dozen relatives of the Iron Dawn bikers, all with clean criminal records, all employed at your office in Crucible City, Mr. Gruber. No connection, you say? Are you sure of that, Mr. Gruber?" Gruber shakes his head sadly, and replies, "I had no idea of any such affiliations, we're not a bank, or federal agency to run background checks on all we hire." The camera switches to Wright, who asks, "Isn't it true that there's a police investigation underway to determine your connection to Amelia Angstrom, Nazi biochemist and war criminal? Isn't it true that Dr. Angstrom provided you with 'the Storm', in return for your kidnapping people to deliver to her for scientific experiments?" Back to Gruber, who looks visibly flustered. "Mister Wright...Herr Doktor Angstrom, Amelia Angstrom, was executed for her crimes in 1945 I do believe." Back to Wright. "Your group is named 'Reich Now', Mr. Gruber. Do you -truly- expect us to believe that you wouldn't be affiliated with Nazis? Reich here and now, as it were?" Gruber looks more confident in his next reply. "Reich Now is the name my father chose, and though it has many negative connotations...it is the name he chose, and to honor him we keep it." The camera angle changes to another reporter, a rumpled-looking fellow who says, "We've spoken before. When you revealed to me that you'd set a bull terrier on an unarmed black man you kept chained in your basement--well, actually, you didn't use the words 'black man.'" Once again, Gruber's expression is shaken. "I was testing you to see what your mettle was. A test you passed by declining to do such a horrifying thing as you mentioned." Now the camera changes to a young woman. "Jess Firestone. UCC Sentinel. Would this be the Doktor Angstrom you're referring to, sir?" A flash of Gruber looking a little incredibly rattled, and then back to the woman. "You have never offered her, what was it my source said, yes... subjects for experimentation, in exchange for drugs? Would you be willing to swear to that in a court of law?" And then to Gruber, looking a little more confident. "I have not ever offered anyone human beings to be experimented upon. And I have no affiliation with drugs of any sort. And yes...I would so swear." And now Estelle Laredo, a known figure in local news, is in the camera. "Who gets to decide who the 'pure' race is, Mr. Gruber? I'd be fascinated to know your source." Gruber is caught dabbing sweat off his brow. The camera flashes back to Laredo, waiting patiently for her answer. And then to Gruber, who has managed a smile as he says, "The 'pure race' is of course the Aryan race." The camera flashes back to Jessica Firestone, some guy beside her holding up a big picture of Angstrom. "You're spending a lot of time defending the nonexistance of a person, sir." Gruber replies, "Miss Firestone...I have seen photo manipulations that were better than that." Back to Jessica, who now wears a self-assured look, and then back to Gruber. "Am I to understand that you are stating that you have /seen/ this woman, personally?" And then back to Firestone. "Oh, certainly, sir. I was closer to her than you are to me. And I thank you for the positive identification. I'm quite amazed at your ability to recognize her on sight." Once again, we get a view of Gruber, looking flustered. The clip ends with a picture of Ben Wright, standing in front of the podium, as the press conference starts to break up. "Well, you've heard it here, folks. Mr. Hans Gruber, denying all accusations that his group is connected to 'the Storm,' and moreover, to the notorious Amelia Angstrom, allegedly spotted alive and well, here in Crucible City. The police investigation remains ongoing, and I'll be here to give you the scoop. On special assignment for Channel 5, I'm Ben Wright." The anchorman says, "Thanks, Ben. Ben Wright, author of the weekly column 'BTW', in staying on assignment with Channel 5 for the duration of this story. And now, to national news..." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/92 Posted Author Another Thought On Reich Now Sun Oct 19 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Editorial in the Crucible City Tribune ...) While other reporters quite laudably hammer certain key and suspicious facts surrounding the works of Reich Now and its redoubtable leader, Hans Gruber, I choose to step aside for a moment and take another route ... one which Mr. Gruber refused to elaborate upon in his press conference. The question Mr. Gruber evaded is quite simple. What storehouse of rational study and information brought you to the conclusion of the utmost superiority of the Aryan Race? To which of a thousand sociological theories have you subscribed, and what makes you so confident as to ignore the rest? His platform may be a straightforward one, but in my opinion, quite worthless without a steady foundation. The commitment Reich Now has made against violence is a laudable one, but precedent shows little chance of it enduring. Such fervent beliefs in superiority begat violence. We have seen it in the Crusades; we have seen it in the Nazi regime after which this movement styles itself; we have seen it, finally, no more than a couple months ago in the actions of Tribe Prime - another correlation which the esteemed Mr. Gruber failed to address. History repeats itself, and it does so with every party involved protesting to the contrary. I will be most interested to see whether Mr. Gruber learns from this fact, or whether history will leave one more imprint for future fanatics to ignore. ~Estelle Laredo Lee ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/93 Posted Author Kidnappings in Crucible Mon Oct 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Once again the citizens of Crucible City have been made the victim of armed kidnappers. The "Black vans of death" have been rumored to be operating in the South side of the city, picking up victims from the homeless there. At approximately 8pm on October 19th a pair of white vans disrupted a football game. The vehicles crashed through the gates and moved mid field, that is when armed terrorists began taking hostages. "It happened so quick," says Tiny Murphy 18 an observer at the game, "They just jumped out and grabbed those guys and started shooting their guns in the air." Witnesses describe a group of vigilante style heroes that arrived on the scene within minutes of the arrival of the gunmen. Tina Murphy, "They came out of nowhere, one of them was this HUGE guy, bigger than the guys that get the ball thrown to them. I think his arms were as big as I am, tough too I heard he pinched the barrels of the guns closed after they beat up the guys from the van." Another witness Joseph May gave descriptions of one of the other heroes, "There was this little girl flying around. Looked like my niece's age, she was made of electricity. When the vans were trying to get away, she threw some sort energy blast at them." "They came in swinging on some sort of rope," continues Tina Murphy, "They were dressed in black, had stripes on their side sort of like a tiger. The guy jumped into the group and started hitting the guys with the gun. Oh! They shot the big guy a LOT, but he didn't look hurt at all. The girl got out of the way of the guns and started throwing these silver rocks at the guys. She knocked out a lot of them, hit one guy where it counts." See Page C 12 for more details. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/94 Posted Author Follow Up: Kidnappings in CC Mon Oct 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The vans managed to get away, despite the efforts of the electric child. The man matching the description of Jinx carried out a quick interrogation on the twenty-yard line. By the time the police had arrived the group had left the scene leaving the gunmen and their ringleader unconscious on the football field. An hour later the police responded to a call from Tommy Hicks, one of the victims of the kidnapping. He and Jake Hanson were found south of Wabash Avenue along with one of the two white vans that were used in the kidnapping. Inside the back of the van were several battered and bound men positively identified by misters Hicks and Hanson as being part of the kidnapping plot. Police interrogation could not reveal the location in which the two young men were held due in part to the fanatical loyalty of the captured terrorists. Their leader, called "The Behemoth" by his followers remains in a coma at Crucible City general hospital. The story goes on to describe the original Behemoth as well as to speculate about the group of heroes. Who was the glowing child, what was the name of the large man, what about the pair that matched the description of Jinx? ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/95 Posted Author Would be robbery gone awry Mon Oct 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Crucible City's morning commuters were treated to quit the toodoo in the South lake shore shopping district. While most merchants were busy with the business of opening shop, Zale's Jewelers found themselves under attack from Powered criminals Kit and Kat. The normally dastardly duo found themselves undone and done in by the untimely appearance of a pair of local heros. Eyewitness, Martha Wilson, notes that the masked pair refered to themselves as Patter and Nightbane. She goes on to note that while they did a fine job of taking down the would be robbers, they failed to sooth Fifi's-Fifi is a 10 year old poodle with a nervous disorders-nerves. "You'd think they would have shown more consideration for her fragile constitution." Mrs. Wilson is reported to have commented to the officers carting the unconcious criminals away. Police have made no comment at this time. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/96 Posted Author Business Section, Chicago Tribune Mon Oct 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Focus on Local Business: Superior Prosthetics Private Clinic Superior Prosthetics has been open for business for little more than a month now. While outwardly only a prosthetics clinic, outfitting patients with artificial limbs, Superior Prosthetics is apparently also one of the nation's cutting-edge medical research firms. "There was always a demand for an effective general anaesthetic," explains Dr. Ingimundur "Jorg" Eirikssen. "While a hospital could manage a bulky breathing apparatus, or even syringes, field uses were significantly more limited." Evidently, the solution was a cheweable anaesthetic. "Syringes always presented a bit of a problem," explained Dr. Eirikssen. "with breakable glass and accidental needlestick injuries. Circumventing the need for that, however, presented an unusual challenge." The Red Cross has placed a sizeable order, finding use for it within their field medics. A few military units are presently in negotiations. "We had to," concluded Dr. Eirikssen, "sell manufacturing rights to a few generic manufacturers. We would have been unable to keep up with the demand otherwise." So, with a name like Superior Prosthetics, why the focus on pharmaceutical research? "The artificial limbs run at a loss," answered the doctor. "I like to help people. So do my staff, to whom I am indebted and eternally grateful. Unfortunately, even the most noteworthy of charities needs to keep an eye on the bottom line. Fortunately, this line of research helps people and keeps the clinic in black ink." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/97 Posted Author Open Pages Turns To A New Chapter Mon Oct 20 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A brief ad found in the local papers, particularly community press in the northwest region of the city, advertises the founding of a bookstore known as Open Pages, dealing in old and rare tomes, open 11am to 9pm, as well as by appointment - phone for more information. Open Page is located off Northwest Highway and Vail in Arlington Heights, under the ownership of Arian Madoc. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/98 Posted Author AILING POPE APPOINTS POWER Tue Oct 21 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible Tribune) Pope John Paul II, whose battle with Parkinson's disease has been highly visible during week-long celebrations in Rome, named 31 new members of the College of Cardinals today. The College will be the group who selects John Paul's successor. Among those Cardinals was Bishop Bernardo Lorenzo, known in America as The Papal Bull and in the Vatican as Aleph. Lorenzo is the only Power ever to be raised to the status of Cardinal, but analysts were quick to discount any change in the Vatican's position on Powers with this appointment. "There are representatives from across the spectrum," said one spokesman. "From conservatives to some of the most liberal diocese, and many are international, reflecting the new focus in the Church." Cardinal Lorennzo suffers from a mutation that gives him the appearance of a humanoid bull. He is possessed of superhuman strength and endurance, which he has used on numerous occasions to defend the Church. He returned from a mission in Asia to appear at the Pope's 25th anniversary celebrations. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/99 Posted Author Obit: Galen Windsor Wed Oct 22 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Galen Windsor (1920-2003): Known to the world as 'Windjammer', Galen Windsor discovered his superhuman powers in 1938 while the War was heating up in Europe. A sailor by trade and family tradition, he fought smugglers and pirates along the Carolina coast before enlisting with many other Powers in the Light Brigade upon the American entry into the War. In the War he met his future wife Merlynn Clay, marrying in 1942. When the Light Brigade disbanded in the wake of Senate hearings, the Windsors and their young son Allen packed up all their belongings and moved to the city of Chicago, leaving their coastal roots behind. Here, Galen became a police officer, badge number 127 in the detective bureau. He kept his powers secret, but when Allen manifested his abilities and donned the uniform of Stratosphere in 1963, his father devoted his life to assisting his son's superheroic career, even going so far as to have a subterranean headquarters secretely constructed beneath the family home while Allen was away at college. In 1995 the secret identities of the entire Windsor family were revealed when Abigail Windsor joined the Chicago Police Force and admitted to a career as Windlass. The House of Windsor became a tourist attraction but Stratosphere continued his work with the assistance of his parents. By this time, however, Galen had begun to suffer from Altzheimers as well as unusual medical conditions resulting from his powers. When Allen vanished in the Event, it was no longer possible for the family to reside in the Schaumburg home they had made famous, and Galen was relocated with his wife to a nursing home. She died in 2001 and Galen's condition worsened. He died at home, surrounded by family and friends. Galen Windsor is survived by his daughter-in-law Jill, his grand-daughters Gail and Marjorie, and great-grandson Jack. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/100 Posted Author Wabash Warfare Continues Thu Oct 23 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This reporter has discovered from sources in the CCPD that an incident occurred earlier this week on Wabash Avenue, in which five alleged gang members attempted to rob and sexually assault a young woman, Lisa Bless, at knife and gun point. Lisa Bless, 19, is a single mother who worked in the area as a bartender at an undisclosed Wabash area bar. Fortunately for the victim, three Powers were in the immediate area. According to witnesses, two of the heroes are Surf and Chevalier, both relatively new to the superhero scene. The third, allegedly making use of what has been described as "psychic tentacles," was also heavily involved in fighting off the alleged criminals. In the end, all five alleged criminals were apprehended after a short and violent fight during which the five reportedly used fully automatic submachineguns, which had no effect on the three heroes. The Wabash neighborhood in particular has recently been hard hit by an increase in gang-related violence and criminal activity, despite the increased attention paid the area by Crucible City's hero and vigilante communities, particularly Stalke, Jinx, and now Chevalier and Surf, as well as several powers resident to the area. Police report that they are initiating a program to improve response times and have a more visible role in policing the community. Residents are quick to point out that this is not the first time CCPD has made public resolutions to this effect, but complain that a lack of implementation and widespread corruption on the local level has hindered police efforts. CCPD did not respond to requests for comment prior to the final filing of this report. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/101 Posted Author Press Release in Tribune: Fri Oct 24 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Agents from Advanced Solutions, LLC--a private security firm specializing in contra-Power interdictions--have investigated the sightings of the strange vessel floating over Lake Michigan. "We would like to reassure citizens of Crucible City that the vessel and its crew are friendly," stated the corporation's spokesman, who identified himself as "Knight Exemplar". "The captain of the vessel was rather sociable, promissing his vessel and crew in the defense of our fair city," concluded the spokesman. "We would like to reassure law-abiding citizens that there is no threat from this source, and that in the event of any new concerns, we will be there and ready to deal with it." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/102 Posted Author The Blight on Wabash Fri Oct 24 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Once again the streets of Wabash avenue was rocked by violence in the evening. At around seven PM (Oct 24th 2003) a gray van stopped in front of Tony's Tech Town and two men stepped out. They were stopped by a unknown Power and after a short conversation weapons were distributed. The unknown Power pulled what looked like a small automatic weapon from the folds of his jacket after two of armed thugs opened fire. A short exchange of gunfire left one of the criminals dead on the sidewalk, another injured. As two more men exited the vehicle the unnamed Power made his talents known in a dramatic fashion. "It was like he turned into a ghost or something," commented Hettie, local resident of Wabash, "I was hiding in the alley, I didn't know if it was one of those black vans or not. I saw everything. He flew through the van and shot the driver. It was horrible, so much blood everywhere. Then the giant man screamed like a monster and threw the van over! It was horrible, I don't want to think about it anymore." Police refuse to give official comment on a note allegedly left behind on the scene. However one source in the CCPD was said the note was left for the vigilantes of Wabash. The note was said to read, "Blight has come to the streets of Crucible City. All heroes be warned, the South Side belongs to me." ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/103 Posted Author Abduction Foiled In Ghost Woods Sat Oct 25 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Enquirer) An attempted abduction was foiled last night from Ghost Woods of local millionaire's daughter Amanda Terring. The thirteen-year-old and her young friends reportedly often gathered in secret in the woods, without permission or knowledge from their parents, apparently to engage in "druidic rites." Lured off to one side, Terring was grabbed from behind by one of the abductors, but the raccous cry of a raven - "A sign!" according to the awed girls later - attracted the attention of a nearby gathering of Powers. Heroically rushing to the rescue, they were confronted by a strike-force of three, under the names of Fast-Forward, Rebirth and Truth, the latter posssessing a strange ability to appear and reappear despite being shot through and turned to stone. Details on the other Powers involved are sketchy, although rising star Tempest brought Terring to police custody, and the girls all report in gushing tones the presence of, "an awesome armored figure with a beautiful metallic pegasus!" The motives for the attempted abduction have not yet been determined, but are assumed to be monetary. The parents of all the young women involved are said to be outraged. In gratitude, Mr. Terring is offering a sizable reward to any of the defending Powers who choose to step forward. Dawn Patrol member Tempest released a statement in response to this offer requesting that any reward intended for her be instead be donated to a local charity supporting law enforcement officers and their families. (For more information - request to Plot Queue) ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/104 Posted Author In Minor News ... Sat Oct 25 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (On an interior page of the Crucible City Enquirer) Another sighting of would-be villain Retrofit, formerly known as Martin August: he and comrade "Foresight" assaulted a chemistry professor in Oak Lawn this afternoon, looking it would seem for a recent component of his breakthrough works ... they were headed off at the pass by Tempest, Nightbane, a nameless "Space Pharoah" with companion, and a mighty man of masonry who afterwards transported the badly wounded man to the hospital. Capture seemed iminent before Retrofit called for help, which arrived in the form of one Timewriter. Her brief efforts nonetheless served as a cover for all three to vanish into thin air. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/105 Posted Author UCC Receives Unexpected Donation Sun Oct 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The following newspaper article appears at the bottom of page five: Synapse Innovations, a multinational electronics company based in Crucible City, announced today that they will be donating one million dollars to the University of Crucible City, hot on the heels of a staggering surge on the stock market and several hostile takeovers that have launched the company firmly onto the world stage. Marion Sloane, CEO and founder of the company, released a press statement stating that she hoped that the donation would increase the quality of education offered at the local university and that she would also be offering a full scholarship every year, available to any high school student who meets a means test to determine that they would otherwise be financially unable to attend UCC. "Our children are our future and without the resources to watch them grow into enlightened, knowledgeable adults I can't imagine what would become of this proud city," Miss Sloane was quoted as saying in a recent interview. Interested applicants should address all correspondance to 'The Celia Sloane Memorial Scholarship' care of Synapse Innovations. (Please @mail Marion if you feel your character fits the criteria and you are interested in applying for the scholarship). ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/106 Posted Author Iron Dawn Connected to Slavery Rin Sun Oct 26 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Headline: Iron Dawn Confirmed as White Slavery Ring Paper: Most of them run a variant of the following story. The South Side was today the site of a massive coordinated strike by both the CCPD and FBI resulting in the imprisonment and capture of almost sixty of the biker gang and White Supremicist group known as the Iron Dawn. An anonymous tip to 911 led to the dispatch of several squad cars, interestingly enough some minutes after, a team of Federal Agents descended on the place in a coordinated strike against the Iron Dawn safe house located at Loomis and 17th street on the South Side. Found in the basement were over a dozen minority prisoners, and eight members of the biker gang. The bikers were all beaten rather severely, and some bore wounds from some sort of non-lethal anti-personnel rounds. Also found were the remains of a pair of soldiers in high tech weaponry and armor, it seems their arms and equipment destroyed itself with catastrophic results for the wearers. A ring of blackened masonry is being investigated, and believed to have been some sort of a high technology, though the exact nature of it is not at this time known. One of the prisoners described her saviours as none other than The Hanged Man, though his signature calling card was not present, and the man known as the Nightbane. All of the prisoners were found in shocking condition, and evidence of all manner of abuse was found. Hans Gruber, leader of Reich Now issued a formal statement denouncing the Iron Dawn as "The very worst that the Aryan peoples have to offer." and condemning them in the strongest possible terms. <> ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/107 Posted Author Historical Home Saved From Destruc Tue Oct 28 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Enquirer) For reasons as yet undetermined, three Powered villains - by the aliases of Truth, Inevitable and Spider (apparently referring to the "weave" of fate) - broke into the Halen Manor late this evening with both family and staff on hiatus, and the stated intention of levelling it to the ground with a well-placed bomb. They were halted upon their attempt at departure by Gail Windsor, Tien Lung and Solstice. In the course of the struggle, much of the pictaresque gardens were alternately frozen and burned, but the house remains standing due to the deft efforts of another representative of the Shanghai Knights in disarming the device before Spider could trigger it. Although the other two made narrow escapes and are currently at large, Inevitable was felled after a futile attempt at using Tien Lung as a human shield against the encompassing assaults of frost and fire. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/108 Posted Author TOP SHELF TOPPLED! Tue Oct 28 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Crucible City - Top Shelf Books and Cafe, a popular bookstore and coffee shop in the city's Greek Town district, sustained heavy damage late Tuesday evening in a Powered assault. At least fourteen people were wounded, two of them critically, in the attack. The assault coincided with a sudden, unexpected thunderstorm over the city's downtown core that summoned what witnesses described as a 'blinding moon beam' to shatter the third story's glass walls and roof. Survivors report the Powers involved in the attack were Candace Cane aka Rupture, notorious international assassin, and Aegis, most recently seen as the right-hand woman to Hans Gruber of Reich Now. Another Power, described as a man of 'living stone', escaped from the store after falling through two floors due to his mass. Rupture was disabled and held for police with the aid of Catherine Wright and a Power giving his name as Mindstorm. Aegis was able to flee the scene, an unnamed Power identified only as being 'dark-skinned' giving chase. The attacks are said to have focussed on one Jessica Firestone, a local grad student, with such ferocity she was propelled through the balcony floor to the bookstore below. Firemen and search crews have so far been unable to locate her in the rubble. Crucible City Police have asked for eye witnesses or those with any information regarding the attack to contact them at (@mail Miracleman). ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/109 Posted Author Plague and Disease! Wed Oct 29 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This afternoon in the Uncommon Grounds, an unidentified woman transformed into a being of noxious slime and foul bearing, one who struck CCPCU Officer Quan Xian-Xing with an unknown affliction. The Power and an unidentified federal agent fought the beast to a stand-still, Officer Quan blasting it to bits some time after its transformation - so bystanders report - into lime Jello. The creature reportedly mentioned a "Green Man"; other details are sketchy at this point in time. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/110 Posted Author Knights and Knaves Square Off Wed Oct 29 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Interior page article in the Crucible City Enquirer) Details on what started it are sketchy, but the results of a big dust-up in a park in Addison left four members of the Shanghai Knights wounded, two villainous Powers fled, a third captured, another whose involvement and identity was not confirmed long gone from the scene ... and the park itself thoroughly singed by the firestarter's machinations. Powers Timewriter and Rebirth are still at large. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/111 Posted Author WIERDNESS AT WELDING HIGH! Thu Oct 30 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This report is seen in the Welding High newspaper, then picked up by the Crucible Enquirer Strange oddness happened today outside of Welding Highschool. Just as the final period of classes was starting, a robotic seeming figure appeared outside of campus. Seemingly able to control cars, at least, the creature tried to attack several bystanders and good samaritans. No one, was hurt, except for the robotic figure, who turned out to be James Earl Johnson III, president of the Welding High Chess Club and Vice President of the Computer Society. Reports of his being spurred by an unnamed cheerleader seem to give a motive for the attack. Mr. Johnson was in love, and wanted someone to notice him. It is indeed a shame that Mr. Johnson chose violence over flowers. As for those who helped, reports of a young woman in green with dragonfly wings was reported, and already she's been given the name of Lady Dragonfly by some of the locals and High School Students. Miss Angel Love was the victim of this attack, apparently having come to pick up her cousin at the high school. Two other unidentified men helped defend the innocent, but neither would give there names, or even talk to the press. ============================================================================== ========================== IC: Crucible Periodicals ========================== Message: 10/112 Posted Author The Inexplicable And The Illegal Fri Oct 31 Reporter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Crucible City Enquirer) This morning in broad daylight, three Powers hit and took out a pair of statues commemorating heroes lost to the Event. Implicated in the rather bizarre incident is one Fast-Forward, an infinitely malleable man apparently called Remake, and an unidentified armored figure wielding a rather potent blade well able to slice through metal and stone alike. Further assessment of a blurry camera still from the event allowed the blade to be pinned as "Memory-Eater," an occultic blade known for drinking the memories of those it strikes. This is far from the first incident from a loose association of Powered criminals, usually working in groups of two or three under the direction of one Timewriter. Although they have indulged in a variety of crimes, their apparent mode of operations includes an eye towards minimizing bystander injury. They seem to have no such compunction when faced down by other Powers, however. Two of the cohorts are currently in custody, although they have provided little of use to the ongoing search, claiming only that their orders were from a source "on high," an apparent reference to their leader's alleged visionary abilities. Whatever the case, these criminals seem to pose minimal threat to the physical well-being of the Crucible population, but as with any Powered felon, it is advised that the average person lay low and phone the police. Confounding the issue is the apparent lack of a pattern to their actions. "The people involved have no connections to each other that we can find. Some of the thefts are of valuable objects, but they've also raided a museum and made off with papers that have nothing more than historical value - if that - and left the jewels in the next case. The other day so called Truth waltzed into a bank with a pal and demanded they excuse payment on half their loans. A few of the things these costumed nutcases have done aren't even bloody illegal," an unidentified source from the police department complains. "They've been awful quiet the past few days except for this, though - something drove them to ground." More details as they arise. ==============================================================================