KnightDisciple

Carson looks at the indicated building...and sighs.

"I'm a bloody idiot sometimes. That was the one building I thought was least likely to be my destination."

He glances at the simple watch on his left wrist.

"Lucky for me I was sent some help, hm? Looks like I've got about...15 more minutes."

He turned back to face Vivian.

"I'm guessing you're after being a grad student, then, Vivian? What field?"

Carson seems interested in a benign way, rather than openly flirty. That said, he does have a certain charm about him.

Carson smiled at her comment about her age. If anything, his moderate Irish accent seemed to grow a bit thicker. Might just be her imagination though.

"Not a comment on your age, ma'am. Just how Ma and Da raised me. And I should have seen you sooner. The confounded map and directions had too much of my attention."

He held out a hand, this time for a handshake.

"Name's Carson. I'm actually here to attend, and speak at, a theater seminar. I typically work down at Freedom College, which is why I'm a bit lost on this wonderful campus."

He gestures with his hands at the expanse of FCU.

Taking a moment to look, Vivian will notice that Carson seems to be wearing rather casual clothes for a man attending a seminar. Jeans, sneakers, and a dark grey Polo shirt, topped off with a decent-sized backpack. Probably had his notes and books.

"Do ya think you could direct little old me to the building where one...oh, what was his name. Ah, where a Dr. Underhill of the Drama/Theater department is? My directions were such chicken-scratch that I couldn't tell which of 3 buildings it might have been."

Gabriel had looked up just in time to brace himself for the impact.

*woompf*

So while the girl falls, he is merely rocked back on his heels, dropping the papers in his hands. Which proceed to blow away almost instantly.

"Well now, I'm just fine. Are you hurt, miss?"

His eyes glance towards the retreating papers, but he offers the girl a hand to help her stand.

"Hope I didn't make a mess o' your stuff there, ma'am. Come on then, up you go."

His expression seemed open and friendly, not eve holding the irritation of losing his map for more than a second.

Are we still going with the thing where the villains run away when the heroes show up? If so, I've decided Vivian's going to be in a foul mood, and ready to hit something, then be really disappointed when she doesn't get to.

Primarily a thread for Gabriel and Valkyrie to meet up. This occurs on Tuesday, August 10, 2010, so if other people want to join, hop in here and let us know. Maybe we can work you in! :)

Tuesday morning brought a new spring in Carson's step. His chat the previous evening had refreshed his resolve, and renewed his optimism. With this in mind, he poured just as much of his energy into his mundane job as he did into his "evening work".

With that in mind, he was currently wandering around the campus of Freedom City University, trying to determine where the building that housed his seminar was located. He still had some time before it started, but his Ma had taught him to arrive early whenever he could. It was only polite, after all.

"Blast it all. This bloody campus is like a maze! Not to mention my dean's handwriting is a step above chicken-scratch. There's at least three buildings this thing could be in. Why couldn't they have sent me an email?"

He continued walking down the path, comparing a sheet of paper with hand-written notes to a glossy paper map of the campus. Despite the grumblings coming from his mouth, his mood was still fairly upbeat. Though if this problem continued, it might take a nosedive soon enough...

Gabriel

Rooftop Meetings (19)

Herald Heroes Converge! (23)

Lead Us Not Into Temptation (11)

Blurring the Lines (2)

Gabriel ran his hand over his face with a sigh.

"I suppose you're right. Just keeping the world from falling to Darkness is a mighty achievement. I guess I just let everything get to me. It's just so...so disheartening, you know? Maybe if more of the crooks were older, like my age, or middle-aged, it would be one thing. But...I have such a heart for helping teens. I want to help them succeed, and make good choices. But, you're right, I can't force them. Doesn't make it any easier when I'm staring one in the face who's shaking with fear and drugs, trying to steal enough money to get his next fix. All because his home is broken, and all his friendships are hollow. It hurts me, really. I guess I'm still getting used to it."

He looked up to the night sky, considering the beautiful night.

"But hey. I guess making a small difference is better than making no difference, right? Maybe I just need to meet more of my fellow heroes...If nothing else, wailing on some supervillains should relieve some stress, eh?"

Here he gives the true Angel a lopsided grin.

Gabriel laughed. It wasn't quite a bitter sound, but it was pushing that line.

"Aye, that's easy enough. Put on a mask, use these snazzy duds, and the people just shrug their shoulders and say "Another superhero". But that's just it! Even as a "superhero", I don't feel like I'm doing anything! It's like I'm just managin' to break even, and I can't figure out how to get ahead! I mean, forget bringing paradise to Earth, I just want to keep these kids from thinkin' bein' in a gang is their only choice! Blast it all, half the crimes I've stopped were being performed by teenagers! And they don't always listen to me, either. Oh, I have my ways with words, and people tend to at least consider things. But some of them are so far gone...I'm clipping the tips of the weeds, without touching the roots. So many gangs, and drug cartels, and mobs, and supervillain groups, and all o' them such folks. The other heros are barely catching half of them, seems like. I've considered "graduating" myself to bigger threats, but where do I start? What difference am I making, really?"

The young man went from frustrated, to nearly in tears during his short speech. He's clearly struggling with himself and his mission.

Gabriel blinked. Then blinked again.

"Should've expected this. So, now I get a little help? You going to be giving me a two-sentence pep-talk, or can you spare a moment ta sit with me? You hoverin' there is gonna make me nervous after a bit."

His tone isn't hostile, so much as resigned. He gestured to the small ledge around an AC unit that he was currently sitting on.

"I think I'd feel grateful if ya'd talk to me man to man, rather than hints and riddles. Or as much as ya can, anyway. I think I've heard about you before."

It was a balmy Monday evening in Freedom City. The wind was blowing, but it wasn't doing much for keeping the temperature down. Thankfully, the sun had set, and already the temperature was dropping.

Gabriel took a moment to pull back his hood and fan himself a bit. Even wearing a nice, reflective color like white didn't do much to help keep his temperature down. Not when he was flying around stopping 3 muggings and a holdup of a small flower shop. Two repeat offenders, one heroin junkie, and a scared kid who was trying to join a gang. For protection. The kid just about peed his pants when Gabriel came striding into the shop, calming words already flowing from his lips.

He ran a hand over his masked scalp.

"I've been at this for months now, and what do I have to show for it? Seems like there's just as many punks, thugs, and kids on the street as the night before. Am I actually doing any good in this place, Lord? Half my students barely seem to care! It feels like I'm swimming upstream in gelatin with my bloody legs tied together!"

He was looking to the sky, his subdued Irish brogue starting to become more pronounced as he vented his frustrations.

"Ya send Gavriel to give me these powers. To tell me I have a "destiny". I listen, I follow. I do my best. But for what? It's like the Enemy has three times the forces we do! Even with all these superheroes, and don't get me started on some of them, it's like tha line's barely gettin' held! Is it wrong to want to see a few real results o' the work I been doin' all this time?"

Character Name: Superhero Name

Alternate Identity: Real Name, any other aliases. If his only name is his superhero name, then write "None."

Identity: Write "Secret" or "Public."

And now posted in the Character Bank here.

Player Name: KnightDisciple
Character Name: Gabriel
Power Level: 15 (250/250PP) (PL 12 Caps) [282]
Trade-Offs: None
Unspent PP: 0
Progress To Impervium Status: 126/150

Alternate Identity: Carson Finbar Keefe
Identity: Secret
Birthplace: Limerick, Ireland (Chalk it up to the Almighty's sense of humor)
Occupation: Drama Teacher
Affiliations: Freedom College, Freedom League (Reserve Member)
Family: Angus Keefe (Father), Bevin Keefe (Mother), Brody Keefe (Older Brother), Doyle Keefe (Younger Brother), Riona Keefe ("Baby Sister"), Brogan Keefe (Paternal Grandfather), Bridget Keefe (Paternal Grandmother), Colin Doherty (Maternal Grandfather), Moreen Doherty (Maternal Grandmother)

Age: 29 (DoB: March 21, 1984)
Apparent Age: N/A
Gender: Male
Ethnicity: Irish Caucasian
Height: 6'
Weight: 170 lbs.
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Red
Speech Color: Maroon

Description:
Tall and fairly thin, Carson is nonetheless a comparatively unremarkable figure in his civilian guise. Often electing to wear jeans and a plain polo shirt, Carson manages to strike a balance between "comfortable" and "professional" that many people find baffling. He almost always has an easy smile on his face.

Gabriel is a bit sterner figure, but still one that tends to put innocents at ease when they meet him. His outfit, once reminding others of a heroic priest-figure, now seems more like a warrior-priest. Loose white pants, rugged gray leather boots, a gray cloth belt, and a baggy white shirt form the base of his outfit. Covering everything but his mouth and lower nose is a white mask pulled over his head. Over his chest is a sculpted breastplate; at a glance it looks almost like silver, but its obvious strength and lack of corrosion bely that. His hands have fingerless gloves that seem to have an inner layer of cloth or leather, but an outer layer of fine chainmail (of a material similar to his breastplate); over his forearms are smooth vambraces of the same otherworldly material. His lower legs bear smooth greaves of the same holy metal as the rest of him. And over his head is an open-faced helmet of that polished silver-steel. Most amazingly, the metal seems to actually flex with him when he moves, which seems to make it extraordinarily comfortable to wear. Finally, a predominately white leather duster sits on top of everything else, with a black trim bearing intricate gold patterns consisting of Celtic knots and crosses. The most amazing part of this outfit is its ability to, in a flash of light, exchange itself for his normal outfit (though leaving the, ah, bottom-most layer intact) from its hiding place as an elegantly simply silvered wristwatch.

Power Descriptions:
At its most basic, all of Gabriel's abilities loop back to his innate mastery of Sound. His Charisma, his more explicit powers, everything. It all goes back to those little vibrations moving through various sorts of matter. (Further descriptions here.

Just as noticeable as his armor is Gabriel's new weapon. Where before he relied solely on his sonic powers, he now has a shining spear to help surprise unsuspecting opponents, or those who display unusual resistance to his favored powers. The spear itself is exactly as long as Gabriel is tall (6'), with 10 inches being the the leaf-shaped blade; said blade has a smooth curve, and flares out to 4 inches wide before narrowing down again. The whole weapon seems made of silver, yet notably stronger than said metal has any right to be. The spear has incredible power within itself, shining out when Gabriel wishes it. Just as incredible is its ability to turn into into a great shining silver trumpet, or its ability to turn into a simple silver ring on his right hand (so that it's available when he wants it without being obvious). All in all, Gabriel looks the part of the guardian angel so many already think of him as.

History:

(Full history found >here.)

Gabriel has proven himself a fearless hero of Freedom City, rightfully earning his place in the Freedom League. His soft skills, especially diplomacy, have marked him as something of a diplomat among heroes, as well as an unofficial "go-between" for the Catholic Church to the hero community in Freedom City (though it's not a role that's needed often). Though he is by no means an "elder statesman", Gabriel strives to build bridges, both between himself and others, and between other people in general. As one of the semi-official "protectors of Sanctuary", he can find himself stretched thin, but it's simply an occasion to rise to another challenge. He will continue to stand as a barrier between the innocents of Freedom City (and the world itself) and any evils that might prey upon them.

Personality & Motivation:
Carson is, at heart, an optimistic people-person. He loves talking to and helping people, be they a close friend or stranger. He believes that most people can, and will, do good things if given the chance and a little encouragement. He believes that if enough people honestly stand up and try their best, the world can be made a better place. He's realistic enough to acknowledge it would be a long, slow, painful process; that people would still disagree and argue and fight and mess up. But the goal, the ideal, is something Carson believes is worth fighting for.

This belief in the potential for good in people is what drives him to be a teacher at Freedom College. Seeing that more kids from poor and broken homes ended up there, he sought to be a beacon to the students. Not only does he teach drama/theater classes, Carson volunteers to mentor a couple of kids each year. He views these mentorships as one of his best opportunities. Carson always strives to provide the best positive role model to the students he helps; his words are backed up by sincere actions. He acknowledges that sometimes, students will still make bad choices, and that he cannot blame himself. Once he has done his best, the rest is up to the students.

As Gabriel, his focus has often been on helping "the little guy," such that he still stops non-powered petty criminals, instead of focusing solely (or even mostly) on super-crime. Some of these people he tries to help start down the road to redemption; some, he realizes, won't be swayed by his words alone. It makes him sad when he has to use force on a teenager who's robbing a convenience store to feed a destructive habit, or even to try scraping together money to feed themselves and/or their family. But Gabriel believes in the law, and in right and wrong, strongly enough to not let that sadness stop him from doing the right thing. That said, he's not afraid to mix it up with more powerful foes, since they can often offer an even greater immediate danger to civilians.
Even as his focus has broadened over the last couple of years, Gabriel's approach hasn't really changed; his heart still goes out to some criminals who he sees as victims of their own sickness (such as Bee-Keeper II). He will show a touch of wrath for the more hardened elements of the super-criminal world, though, especially the ones who deal in the more despicable trades. And his righteous anger in the presence of the Powers of Darkness can shake a building (if not quite the world).

Powers & Tactics: Most of Gabriel's powers revolve around disabling foes, rather than directly beating them unconscious. Often times, he will batter a foe or group of foes with a hit from each of his varied tricks, keeping them severely off-balance, leaving them vulnerable to a final knockout blow from his sonic blast.

Gabriel's supernatural charisma is, in his mind, his most powerful tool. With it, he can often convince petty criminals to lay down their weapons, and cooperate with the police. In turn, he will speak with the police afterwards to ensure the criminals (often fairly young) receive good treatment, and get as much of their prison time converted to things like community service. It also helps convince civilians to clear the area, and can occasionally allow him to put a more threatening opponent off-guard long enough to get a better hit in.
 

Complications:
Demons, Why Did It Have To Be Demons?: Gabriel has had a large number of encounters with demons, with the worst outcome being a withdrawal by his opponent. These encounters have left him with a natural caution for the demonic, and a reputation among their kind that makes them particularly hostile to him (not to mention their dislike of his faith and the One whom he works for). A GM may give Gabriel a Hero Point if he finds himself a specific target of one or more demons, whether as part of a longer-term plot, or the focus of their ire in a fight.
I Hate Faeries!: Due to a trip to ancient Ireland, as well as several poor meetings at other times, Gabriel has a bit of intense dislike reserved for faeries, or most anything having to do with them. The only real exception so far is the heroine Grimalkin, whom he has had several friendly meetings with in the course of his hero work. As well, he has now repeatedly thwarted plans made by various factions among the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. A GM may feel free to give him a Hero Point if this dislike drives him to sour an initial meeting with another hero who derives his power from the Faerie Realm, if it causes him to recklessly attack faeries (as opposed to watching out for himself and his comrades), or if it brings down unwanted attention or diplomatic difficulties from various Fae factions upon him.
Old Wounds: Gabriel has acquired a fair number of scars during his comparatively short time as a hero; the worst set by far are the large ones across his chest, dealt to him by a "super-ghoul" in October of 2010. Any and/or all of these wounds can occasionally give him trouble, be it due to cold weather, wet weather, or even being around too much necromantic energy (which resonates with the cause of his chest scars). A GM should feel free to give him a Hero Point if the flare-up of these scars is induced, giving him a small to moderate penalty of the GM's choosing, while making sure said flare-ups don't work as a sort of "evil indicator" or the like.
Responsibility: Carson is employed as a Drama/Theater teacher at Freedom College. He has to balance his time spent as Gabriel with his job, especially since he views his work as equally important. At the same time, he is also a Reserve Member of the Freedom League. A GM should feel free to give Gabriel a hero point when his hero work and teaching work come into notable conflict.
Secret (Identity): Gabriel has several people he wishes to protect, most notably his family. A GM should feel free to give him a Hero Point when trying to keep his heroic identity secret becomes notably difficult.
Shepherd of The Flock: Gabriel feels intensively protective of others, especially those without powers to fight back against powerful villains. Thus, he may be borderline reckless attempting to protect those he feels need it. A GM should feel free to give Gabriel a hero point when his protective instinct drives him to reckless decisions.


Abilities: 4 + 4 + 6 + 4 + 8 + 10 = 36PP
Strength: 14 (+2)
Dexterity: 14 (+2)
Constitution: 16 (+3)
Intelligence: 14 (+2)
Wisdom: 18 (+4)
Charisma: 50/30/20 (+20/+10/+5)


Combat: 16 + 16 = 32PP
Initiative: +6
Attack: +8, +12 Spear, +12 Sonic Control
Grapple: +11
Defense: +12 (+8 Base, +4 Dodge Focus), +4 Flat-Footed
Knockback: -6/-4, -3/-1 Flat-Footed

 
Saving Throws: 8 + 9 + 10 = 27PP
Toughness: +12 (+3 Con, +4 Defensive Roll, +5 Holy Armor), +8 Flat-Footed
Fortitude: +11 (+3 Con, +8)
Reflex: +11 (+2 Dex, +9)
Will: +14 (+4 Wis, +10)


Skills: 140R = 35PP
Acrobatics 8 (+10)
Bluff 10 (+40/+20/+15)^SMUE
Diplomacy 10 (+40/+20/+15)^SMUE
Gather Information 10 (+40/+20/+15)^SMUE
Intimidate 10 (+40/+20/+15)^SMUE
Knowledge (Arcane Lore) 8 (+10)
Knowledge (Art) 8 (+10)
Knowledge (Streetwise) 8 (+10)
Knowledge (Theology & Philosophy) 8 (+10)
Notice 12 (+16)
Perform (Acting) 10 (+30/+20/+15)
Perform (Oratory) 8 (+28/+18/+13)
Perform (Singing) 8 (+28/+18/+13)
Perform (Wind Instruments) 10 (+30/+20/+15)
Sense Motive 12 (+16)


Feats: 39PP
All-Out Attack
Attack Specialization (Sonic Control) 2
Beginners Luck
Defensive Roll 2 (+4 Toughness)
Distract (Intimidate)
Dodge Focus 4
Equipment 6 (30EP)
Fascinate (Bluff)
Improved Initiative
Inspire 5
Leadership
Luck 5
Power Attack
Rallying Cry
Skill Mastery (Bluff, Diplomacy, Gather Information, Intimidate)
Ultimate Bluff
Ultimate Diplomacy
Ultimate Intimidate
Ultimate Gather Information
Uncanny Dodge (Auditory)
Well-Informed
 
 
Equipment 6PP = 30EP

 
Powers: 8 + 14 + 10 + 2 + 1 + 43 + 3 = 81PP
 
Device 2 (10PP Container, Flaws: Hard-To-Lose) [8PP] (Holy Armor)

 
Device 4 (20PP Container, Flaws: Easy-To-Lose, Feats: Feature [Transforms into Masterwork Trumpet], Subtle [Transforms into a Ring]) [14PP] (Heavenly Spear)

 
Enhanced Charisma 10 (to 30/+10) [10PP]

Flight 1 (10mph / 100ft per Move Action) [2PP]

Immunity 1 (Own Powers) [1PP]

Sonic Control 12 (34PP Array, Feats: Alternate Power 9) [43PP] (Mutation)

Super-Senses 3 (Ultrasonic Hearing, Extras: Accurate) [3PP] (Echolocation)


DC Block:

ATTACK RANGE SAVE EFFECT

Unarmed Touch DC17 Toughness (Staged) Damage (Physical)

Blast Ranged DC27 Toughness (Staged) Damage (Energy)

Confuse Ranged DC22 Will Confused

Dazzle Ranged+Area DC22 Reflex 1/2 Effect

DC22 Reflex Deafened

DC22 Fortitude Recover

Drain Ranged DC22 Fortitude Drain Toughness

Emotion Control Perception DC22 Will (Staged) Special

Nauseate Ranged DC22 Fortitude (Staged) Sickened/Nauseated/Helpless

Paralyze Ranged DC23 Will (Staged) Slowed/Paralyzed

Spear Touch DC27 Toughness (Staged) Damage (Physical)

 
Abilities (36) + Combat (32) + Saving Throws (27) + Skills (35) + Feats (39) + Powers (81) - Drawbacks (0) = 250/250 Power Points

Here's another version of Gabriel. On the one hand, this is closer to how I wrote his description, and how I generally envision him. On the other, it feels a bit flatter. I suppose continued tweaking will be in order.

And here's my attempt at using Hero Factory to represent Gabriel. I changed some stuff to a light gray, mostly for contrast. Theoretically, I'm still intending it to be all white.

Heh, they have you doing the grunt work, I see. "Did you try turning it off and on again? Have you made absolutely sure that it is plugged in? No? Okay, goodbye!"

Yes, welcome!

KnightDisciple, I'm in IT as well. What's your focus?

Also, don't overlook the chat room all you newcomers. It's a wonderful resource!

Update: Okay. Going to be slowly adding various bits of fluff, and touching up things here and there, until I feel he's ready to submit for approval. So if this post keeps changing...that's why.

Ok. So technically, this guy is mechanically complete. But I'd like to have some general input before I sit down to hash out some more nitty-gritty details on background and such. Of my 5 existing M&M characters, Gabriel is the one I'd like to give a shot at first. He's a bit of a departure for me, so I want to try the challenge. Plus, I think he'd be fun to play.

Power Level: 10 (150/150PP)

Trade-Offs: None

Unspent PP: 0

Gold Status: 0/30

In Brief: Called by a Power higher than mortal man, Carson Finbar Keefe finds himself taking up the mantle of the Archangel Gabriel. Wielding a fraction of the power of the true Archangel, he uses sound to defend the defenseless, right wrongs, and strive constantly against the machinations of Evil in all its forms.

Alternate Identities: (I am unclear on what this term means, as opposed to public and secret identities. :oops: )

Identity (Public): Gabriel

Identity (Secret): Carson Finbar Keefe

Birthplace: Limerick, Ireland (Chalk it up to the Almighty's sense of humor)

Occupation: Drama Teacher at Freedom College

Affiliations: (To be determined)

Family: Father: Angus Keefe; Mother: Bevin Keefe; Older Brother: Brody Keefe; Younger Brother: Doyle Keefe; "Baby" Sister: Riona Keefe; Paternal Grandfather: Brogan Keefe; Paternal Grandmother: Bridget Keefe; Maternal Grandfather: Colin Doherty; Maternal Grandmother: Moreen Doherty;

Age: 26 (DoB: March 21, 1984)

Apparent Age: (N/A)

Gender: Male

Ethnicity: Irish

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 170 lbs.

Eyes: Blue

Hair: Red

Speech Color: Underlined Red

Description: Tall and fairly thin, Carson is nonetheless a comparatively unremarkable figure in his civilian guise. Often electing to wear jeans and a plain polo shirt, Carson manages to strike a balance between "comfortable" and "professional" that many people find baffling. He almost always has an easy smile on his face.

Gabriel is a bit sterner figure, but still one that tends to put innocents at ease when they meet him. His outfit is vaguely reminiscent of a priest's, though filtered through more than one lens. Loose white pants, rugged gray leather boots, a gray cloth belt, and a baggy white shirt form the base of his outfit. On top of that, he wears a white hooded vest, with the hood resting so that it leaves only his eyebrows on down exposed. Over everything but his mouth and lower nose, he sports a white mask, which tends to blur into the hood's lines at a glance, further muffling his appearance. White fingerless gloves help protect his hands. Finally, a predominately white leather duster sits on top of everything else. The trim is actually black, with intricate gold patterns (primarily Celtic knots and crosses).

Power Descriptions: At its most basic, all of Gabriel's abilities loop back to his innate mastery of Sound. His Charisma, his more explicit powers, everything. It all goes back to those little vibrations moving through various sorts of matter.

History: Carson Finbar Keefe was born on the Emerald Isle, that ancient land known as Ireland. Raised on the outskirts of Limerick, he grew up in a large, loving Catholic family. His father and paternal grandfather own and operate a pub, The Falcon and Cent. His mother and paternal grandmother both helped raise the kids, seeing as his paternal grandparents lived in a small cottage just down the road from his parents' house. His maternal grandparents were present almost as frequently, often coming over for big family dinners and get-togethers on the weekends. They lived and worked in Dublin, his Grandpa Colin being a board member in a mid-sized business in the city. Thus it was that the Keefe family never had to live hand to mouth. They have never been rich, but they had what they needed, and that was good enough. Besides, family weekends were always fun!

As he grew older, Carson started experiencing a sense of dissatisfaction. At first, he couldn't even pin his finger on it. His mother could tell something was often bothering her middle son, but she couldn't tell what it was. It wasn't until Carson was in high school that he began to grasp the meaning of this sense of discontent. Like many others, he saw a world that felt so flawed, with so many people wandering around with little hope. But Carson wasn't a superhero. He wasn't even a normal genius; his grades were merely on the high end of average. No, his real talent lay in acting; from the tender age of 6, he'd often been the leading man in any plays his school put on. The fact that he could sing as well as he could act helped during the Christmas plays, for sure. But how to fit his love of acting with this sense of, dare he say it, holy discontent?

Then he thought of the drama teacher at his school. Miss O'Brian, a kindly lady in her late 50's. Not only did she struggle to make sure kids like him had a chance to express themselves, she often helped serve as a mentor or a tutor. Suddenly, he had a sense of certainty. He'd be a teacher like her! Well, maybe eventually be a real actor, too. Like Peter O'Toole, or Liam Neeson! That would be really nifty...

So it was that Carson redoubled his focus on the fine art of theater performance. His parents were touched by the drive and focus he displayed. Once they sat down and talked with him, and he confirmed that his desire was genuine, they got behind him 100%. Of course, it was only a couple of years later that something more incredible happened to Carson.

Three nights after he turns 17, Carson was on a walk in the nearby park, enjoying the early evening weather and view. Suddenly, a brilliant light blinded him, causing him to stumble backwards. As his vision started to clear, he heard a voice. "Fear not, Carson Finbar Keefe. My visit to you is one of greatest import, for you have a great destiny ahead of you." When he could see more clearly, there before him stood an angel! Flowing robes, glowing hair and eyes, white wings, and...a trumpet? Carson quickly crossed himself and muttered a short prayer. "Why...why have you come to me? And which angel are you?" Then his courage took some root, and he straightened a bit as he clutched his rosary. "How do I know you're truly an angel, and not working for the Enemy? He can disguise himself, can't he?" The angel slowly walked forward, stopping right in front of Carson. There he(?) knelt, slowing reaching his free hand out...to grasp the rosary. It did not react at all with the being at first; after a few moments, it took on a deep, unearthly glow. And Carson knew this angel was genuine. "I applaud your courage, Carson. You will need it for the years ahead. I am indeed a true angel. An Archangel, in fact. I am Gavriel, Herald and Messenger of the Most High. I have come because you have been chosen, Carson Finbar Keefe. You have been chosen to be an agent for Good in the world. Your current dreams are worthy, yes. Such is the work of many Saints. But you shall have a task higher still. You will be endowed with a small fraction of my power. You shall craft sound into a weapon against the forces of Evil, large and small. You have great things ahead, Carson. Or should I say...Gabriel"

And with no warning, Gavriel was simply gone. Carson looked down, to find himself clad in simple white clothes. Shirt, pants, gloves, boots, coat...mask, hood? Almost all of it, shining white. He felt power welling up within himself. He had a grasp on at least the basics of what to do, though he knew he needed practice. And oddly enough, he suddenly knew how to play the trumpet, as well as a couple of other similar instruments. But...what would he tell his parents.

In the end, Carson broke down and told his father and mother what had happened. He made them promise not to speak of it to any of the other family, and to instead help cover for him as he took the time to start mastering his abilities, while still working hard to go to school. At first they were reluctant, but after Carson showed them his new outfit (which sadly he could not simply summon and de-summon at will), and some of the things he could do, they became convinced. So Angus and Bevin worked hard to help their middle son. They served as sympathetic listeners as he related his frustrations with school, his powers, and the continuing uncertainty of where exactly he should go.

Carson graduated high school, and immediately entered the closest university with a strong fine arts program. There, he honed his dramatic and vocal skills, while also working on methods to do the same for his future students. He applied all his energy to the program, graduating with a Masters in Theater Education, and a Minor in Counseling, in only 5 (grueling) years. It was perhaps his happiest moment yet, one full of a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Not two days later, he awoke in a cold sweat. He'd had a dream, one with a sense of purpose. But all he could remember was flashing images of his heroic identity fighting criminals and super-villains in a city. Carson got up and went about a typical morning in his house. But when he happened to glance at the paper, something caught his eye, tugged at his heart, and left his rosary feeling warm on his chest. Specifically, there was a story about another conflict between superheroes and supervillains in Freedom City, seemingly the center of such activity in America. At that moment, he knew where he had to go. "Ma, Da, I know where I'm going to teach. Freedom City." At first, they looked at him with confusion. Then they saw the certainty, the conviction, in his eyes. Slowly, his father nodded, pride shining in his eyes. His mother managed to avoid crying, though a single tear slipped out of one eye as she gazed on her boy, now a man. "If that's what you feel you need to do, son, we'll help you get everything squared away."

His parents kept his word. Oh, he didn't move to Freedom City the next week or anything. It took Carson just over a year to get a passport, work visa, and various certifications before he was able to move to America. During that time, he'd been helping his father at the pub, as well as doing some teaching at the local schools. Between all of that, and a bit of help from Grandfather Colin, he managed to arrange for halfway decent housing close to the campus. While he had an Irish driver's license, he didn't want to try dealing with either public transportation or getting his own car for a while. Besides, walking did him good.

Carson has been living and working in Freedom City for the last year and a half. However, it's only been in the last 4 months that he has started doing any sort of crime-fighting. So far, he has yet to confront anyone more dangerous than an armed group of thugs. Thus, it's quite probable that his existence isn't well known outside of Southside, where he tends to operate. He prefers to keep a low profile for the moment, as he's still getting a grip on Freedom City's superhero world. But given the right reason, he may well find himself stepping into greater public view...

Personality & Motivation: Carson is, at heart, an optimistic people-person. He loves talking to and helping people, be they a close friend or stranger. He believes that most people can, and will, do good things if given the chance and a little encouragement. He believes that if enough people honestly stand up and try their best, the world can be made a better place. He's realistic enough to acknowledge it would be a long, slow, painful process; that people would still disagree and argue and fight and mess up. But the goal, the ideal, is something Carson believes is worth fighting for.

This belief in the potential for good in people is what drives him to be a teacher at Freedom College. Seeing that more kids from poor and broken homes ended up there, he sought to be a beacon to the students. Not only does he teach drama/theater classes, Carson volunteers to mentor a couple of kids each year. He views these mentorships as one of his best opportunities. Carson always strives to provide the best positive role model to the students he helps; his words are backed up by sincere actions. He acknowledges that sometimes, students will still make bad choices, and that he cannot blame himself. Once he has done his best, the rest is up to the students.

As Gabriel, his focus has been on helping "the little guy", such that he tends to target non-powered petty criminals. Some of these people he tries to help start down the road to redemption; some, he realizes, won't be swayed by his words alone. It makes him sad when he has to use force on a teenager who's robbing a convenience store to feed a destructive habit, or even to try scraping together money to feed themselves and/or their family. But Gabriel believes in the law, and in right and wrong, strongly enough to not let that sadness stop him from doing the right thing. That said, he's not afraid to mix it up with more powerful foes, since they can often offer an even greater immediate danger to civilians.

Powers & Tactics: Most of Gabriel's powers revolve around disabling foes, rather than directly beating them unconscious. Often times, he will batter a foe with a hit from each of his varied tricks, keeping them severely off-balance, leaving them vulnerable to a final knockout blow from his sonic blast.

Gabriel's supernatural charisma is, in his mind, his most powerful tool. With it, he can often convince petty criminals to lay down their weapons, and cooperate with the police. In turn, he will speak with the police afterwards to ensure the criminals (often fairly young) receive good treatment, and get as much of their prison time converted to things like community service. It also helps convince civilians to clear the area, and can occasionally allow him to put a more threatening opponent off-guard long enough to get a better hit in.

Complications:

Secret: Secret Identity

Responsibility: Carson is employed as a Drama/Theater teacher at Freedom College. He has to balance his time spent as Gabriel with his job, especially since he views his work as equally important.

Abilities: 0 + 4 + 6 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 22pp

Str 10 (+0)

Dex 14 (+2)

Con 16 (+3)

Int 14 (+2)

Wis 14 (+2)

Cha 14 (30) (+2 (+10))

Combat: 20 + 12 = 32pp

Initiative: +2

Attack: +10

Grapple: +0

Defense: +6 (+6 Base, +0 Dodge Focus), +3 Flat-Footed

Knockback: -0

Saving Throws: 2 + 3 + 5 = 10pp

Toughness: +10 (+3 Con, +6 Defensive Roll, +1 Leather Jacket)

Fortitude: +5 (+3 Con, +2 Base)

Reflex: +2 (+2 Dex, +3 Base)

Will: +7 (+2 Wis, +5 Base)

Skills: 112r = 28pp

[bluff] [12 Ranks] (12 + 10 (Cha) = 22)

[Diplomacy] [12 Ranks] (12 + 10 (Cha) = 22)

[Gather Information] [12 Ranks] (12 + 10 (Cha) = 22)

[intimidate] [12 Ranks] (12 + 10 (Cha) = 22)

[Knowledge] [8 Ranks] (8 + 2 (Int) = 10)

[Knowledge] [8 Ranks] (8 + 2 (Int) = 10)

[Notice] [8 Ranks] (8 + 2 (Wis) = 10)

[Perform] [8 Ranks] (8 + 10 (Cha) = 18)

[Perform] [8 Ranks] (8 + 10 (Cha) = 18)

[Perform] [8 Ranks] (8 + 10 (Cha) = 18)

[sense Motive] [8 Ranks] (8 + 2 (Wis) = 10)

[sleight of Hand] [8 Ranks] (8 + 2 (Dex) = 10)

Feats: 15PP

[Attractive (Rank 1)]

[Connected]

[Contacts]

[Defensive Roll (Rank 6)]

[Distract (Bluff)]

[Fascinate (Bluff)]

[inspire (Rank 2)]

[Well-Informed]

[Equipment 1]

Cell Phone[1ep]

Laptop [1ep]

Digital Audio Recorder [1ep]

PDA [1ep]

Leather Jacket (+1 Toughness) [1ep]

Powers: 16 + 27 = 43PP

Enhanced Charisma (Artificially boosts Gabriel's Charisma from 14 to 30; Rank 16; Action: Reaction; Range: Personal; Duration: Continuous) [16pp]

Sonic Control (Control over Sound; Base Power is Dazzle, 7 Alternate Powers (Sonic Blast, Communication, Confuse, Emotion Control, Flight, Nauseate, Paralyze) [27pp]

• Base Effect: Dazzle (Create 50 ft. radius Auditory Dazzle effect (Ref save DC 20) (failed save means hearing is rendered useless; DC 20 fort save each round (with +1 to save each round) to move to -1 on hearing; round after that, sense is normal); Rank: 10; Action: Standard; Range: 100ft; Duration: Instant) [20pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Sonic Blast (Ranged +10 attack, DC 25 Toughness; Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank 10; Action: Standard; Range: 100ft; Duration: Instant) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Communication (Ventriliquism, 200,000 mile range; Subtle 2 (undetectable); Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank 10; Action: Free; Range: Extended; Duration: Sustained) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Confuse (Will save DC 20; target becomes confused; new will save each round with +1 each successive round; Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank: 10; Action: Standard; Range: Perception; Duration: Instant (Lasting)) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Emotion Control (Will Save DC 20; instill calm, despair, fear, hate, hope, love; Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank 10; Action: Standard; Range: Perception; Duration: Sustained (Lasting)) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Flight (500 mph, 4400 ft./round; Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank: 6; Action: Move; Range: Personal; Duration: Sustained) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Nauseate (DC 18 Fort save or be weakend (via nausea); save fails and target is sickened (-2); fail by 5 or more/second application of power, target is nauseated (-5); fail by 10 or more/third application, target is helpless; Alt Power of Sonic Control; Rank 8; Action: Standard; Range: 20ft; Duration: Instant (Lasting)) [1pp]
  
  Alternate Effect: Paralyze (DC 18 Will save; target slowed, can only take move or standard action, has -1 to attack, def, ref save, moves at half normal speed; fails by 5 or more/second hit of power, target paralyzed; Rank 8; Action: Standard; Range: 20ft; Duration: Instant (Lasting)) [1pp]

Drawbacks: 0 + 0 + 0 = 0pp (None Currently)

Name (Description; Frequency: [uncommon/Common/Very Common]; Intensity: [Minor/Moderate/Major]) [Xpp]

DC Block:

    ATTACK      RANGE     SAVE                EFFECT

    Unarmed     Touch     DC15 Toughness      Damage

    Dazzle      100ft     DC20 Reflex         Target Deafened

    Sonic Blast 100ft     DC25 Toughness      Damage

    Confuse     Percep.   DC20 Will           Confused

    Em. Control Percep.   DC20 Will           Emotion Instilled

    Nauseate    Percep.   DC18 Fort           Weakened/Sickened/Nauseated/Helpless

    Paralyze    Percep.   DC18 Will           Slowed/Paralyzed

Abilities (22) + Combat (32) + Saving Throws (10) + Skills (28) + Feats (15) + Powers (43) - Drawbacks (0) = 150pp

So, uh, hello.

KnightDisciple (it's my favorite screenname, really) here. I'm in my 20s, nominally in the IT field for work (though circumstances mean I'm in a "transition period" right now).

I've been doing tabletop gaming for years, since college. Play by post is more recent, but still a couple of years now.

Have some experience with M&M. Have a lot of experience with comics.

Looking forward to finding my place in the community here.