Friends, Enemies and Others

The Professor and allies

The Professor is a figure shrouded in mystery, always obscured by the shadows, and clad in a nondescript attire that allows them to blend seamlessly into any environment. Their face remain hidden behind a mask, scarf or blurry on a computer screen, leaving only glimpses of piercing eyes that seem to hold ancient wisdom. Only a select few had direct interactions with him, primarily the augments from Serenity Sanctuary.

Despite their enigmatic persona, the Professor is driven by a strong sense of uncovering the secrets of Nexus and the science behind it. They operate from the shadows, preferring anonymity as they move through the underbelly of society, fighting against the oppression on the weak and marginal. Calculating and methodical, they strike with precision and finesse, leaving no trace behind.

Background:
Little is known about the Professor's origins, their true identity buried beneath layers of secrecy. Some speculate that they are a former intelligence operative or a scientist who has turned vigilante. Others believe they are a rogue genius, using their intellect and resources to combat injustice from the shadows.

Specialty:
The Professor is a master of infiltration and espionage, able to navigate the darkest corners of society with ease. They possess a vast array of skills, from science to hacking and surveillance. Their knowledge of technology and strategy is unparalleled, allowing them to outmaneuver even the most formidable adversaries.

Adventures:
The Professor operates outside the bounds of the law, pursuing their own goals wherever it leads. From destroying illegal laboratories to exposing corrupt politicians, they leave a trail of chaos in their wake, always one step ahead of those who seek to unmask them. Their exploits are whispered about in hushed tones, inspiring hope in the downtrodden and striking fear into the hearts of the guilty.

Despite their anonymity, the Professor's legend continues to grow, their actions serving as a beacon of hope in a world plagued by darkness. Whether they are a hero or a vigilante is a matter of debate, but one thing is certain: as long as there is injustice in the world, the Professor will be there, lurking in the shadows, ready to strike.

---

Emily Parker "Wiz" (32)
Dr. Emily Parker is a brilliant and dedicated scientist who has been working closely with the professor on secret research projects for the past several years. Growing up, Emily showed exceptional aptitude in mathematics and science, and her passion for discovery led her to pursue a career in research. After completing her Ph.D. in molecular biology at a prestigious university, Emily caught the attention of the professor with her groundbreaking thesis on genetic engineering. Instead of joining a famous corporation, she was seduced by the professor's promise of knowledge and discovery.

---

Jake Sullivan "Joker" (33)
Sergeant Michael Reynolds is a highly skilled nurse who previously served as a Marine in special operations. After completing his service in the military, Jake transitioned to civilian life and pursued a career in nursing. His background in combat medicine and field trauma care makes him a valuable asset to the professor's entourage, where he provides medical support and expertise during their clandestine operations.

Jake is disciplined, resourceful, and fiercely loyal to those he considers part of his team. He possesses a calm and steady demeanor, even in high-pressure situations, which he attributes to his training and experience in the Marines. Despite his formidable appearance and combat training, Mike has a compassionate side, especially when it comes to caring for others in need. He is known for his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his patients and colleagues.

The Escapees

Apart from the player characters who managed to escape Nexus unscathed, there are also other New Yorkers who share a similar background, having been raised in the orphanage.

---

Jennifer Johnson "Valkyrie Storm" - NYPD (25): Adopted at a young age, Jennifer grew up in a loving and supportive family environment. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of justice and duty, which led her to pursue a career in law enforcement. As a member of the NYPD, she uses her skills and determination to fight crime and protect the innocent. Jennifer is trying to follow the law as much as possible, but the red tape and seeing villains getting released by the justice system is becoming increasingly frustrating for her. As far as the PCs knows, she doesn't have a superhero alter-ego.

She is a former lover of Maximillian King, but both were so different that it didn't last very long.

Known power: Air/Storm control, Fly, immunity psychic magic and illusion, Durability
Distinction/Personality: Energic and Athletic Paragon, Compassionate and courageous protector, Idealistic Police officer

---

Blake (21): By day, Blake is a diligent college student, striving to build a better future for themselves. But by night, they take on a different role as an escort, navigating the complexities of life with versatility and resilience. Like Jennifer, Blake was adopted early in life. Not much is known about her since she spent a lot of time away from the orphanage. She is Tav's former best friend from their time at Nexus.

Known power: Comprehension, Decipher
Distinction/Personality: Prostitute by night, student by day

---

Emiko Kenzaki "Fox Fury" (21), endured a harrowing ordeal after falling ill due to the consequences of Nexus experimentation. She faced a series of formidable challenges in her young life. She spent nearly a decade in Japan in a specialized hospital and grew apart from the rest of the group for some time. Despite her struggles, Emi overcame her health issues and joined Serenity Sanctuary as a teenager.

Emi's journey from adversity to resilience is a testament to her indomitable spirit. Despite never being adopted due to her health issues, she channels her newfound strength towards aiding the professor in his quest for truth. Emi's resilience is further demonstrated by her mastery of martial arts, a skill she acquired from a former commando who rescued her from Nexus. Today, she pays it forward by teaching martial arts to the children at the orphanage, empowering them with the same resilience that defines her own journey.

Emiko's alter ego is Fox Fury, and all the PCs know about it. She is merciless and dangerous on the street in her role of vigilante. While she may have not killed anyone yet, she has no remorse for breaking bones and destroying an opponent who deserves it as a message for others nuisances of the city.

Known power: Super-strength, Stamina, super senses, reflex
Distinction/Personality: Ruthless Martial Artist, Spiritual and calm. Usually disciplined but has a PTSD and an alcohol problem.

---

Anika Kessler "Ravenheart" (21) Anika's light element was forcefully extracted from her by Nexus and injected into Connor, triggering his latent light powers. This manipulation had unforeseen consequences for Anika. Unlike the other augments who managed to escape, she remained captive within Nexus's clutches. However, mysteriously, more than 15 years later, she resurfaced in New York City. During this time, she became entangled with Connor, their paths crossing in unexpected ways. In the same week, she also played a role in a daring burglary orchestrated by Max, adding further layers to her enigmatic presence in the city.

Known power: Darkness (Shadow walk, shadow control), Sorcery (illusion), Dream manipulation,
Distinction/Personality: Enigmatic control Freak, Ill-tempered alpha seductress

---

Erin Ivanova "Gaia" (29)

An older child and a terrible bully at Nexus, Erin is a gorgeous and vindictive ‘mean girl’ with powerful telekinetic powers who took out her frustrations on the other kids. Though younger, Jack stood up to her from the beginning, and they were becoming true enemies when the break-out happened. Jack helped Erin (and many others) escape, perhaps against her better judgement, loosing that piece of damaged goods into the world. Since then, they have clashed multiple ties as adults in the outside world.

Known power: Telekinesis, Gravity, Earth element
Distinction/Personality: Powermonger Cruel Bully, Prideful and Vixen gorgeous woman