Metahuman Unrest Brings Enclavewide Curfew

Vox News

Date: 2087-06-21 By: Karen Complex

"Good evening. I'm your host, Karen Complex."

An upbeat jingle announces the beginning of the news update.

"Unsettling news in the city tonight. Unrest breaks out after tensions escalate between two local metahuman terrorist organizations. The elf gang known as 'The Ancients' set off an explosion in a Tacoma motel earlier today, killing dozens. Many of our viewers will remember just last Mischief Night, when the beloved Renton pub 'Greasy Ben's' was burned down by what arson investigators believe to be the same group. No arrests were made in the scandal, despite the five months it took the owner to recover from the crime suspected to be targeted at the Humanis Policlub members who frequent the establishment. It is suspected that the fire may be tied to the same element behind today's bombing at the docks.

"Through footage that Vox News has obtained, which is too graphic to share with our viewers, we know that The Ancients' targets were members of rival orc gang 'The Cutters', known for collecting the ears of their victims.

"In his publicised and at times nearly incoherent ranting, an elf identified only as 'Belial' stated that he had been communing with Lucifer, who had directed him to execute this terrorist attack as retribution for a conflict that allegedly occurred at an elf compound in Fort Lewis just over a year ago.

"It remains unclear if this is some sort of anti-Christian elven rhetoric, or whether this criminal element is acting on its own. Whatever the cause, the flame is lit and warfare has broken out across Seattle. If you are travelling through public systems this week, please be aware that delays and other hazards may cause interruptions to the regular bus and train schedules. Traffic is expected to bottleneck further in Downtown and other areas where looting has exacerbated the damage.

"Tarislar has seen a reduction in Knight Errant forces, perhaps the first test in some time of their preparedness to actually protect the elven enclave. Perhaps they are joining The Ancients' blood feud.

"Seattle authorities recommend stocking up on non-perishables and readying any home defense measures. Report any groups of elves or orcs moving in neighborhoods where they are not typically seen. Above all, stay safe and travel only when essential: these groups of 'gangers' are known to attack indiscriminately, regardless of whether you are affiliated with rival factions. We understand that a city-wide curfew has been instated for your protection. Anyone out after 9 P.M. local will be subject to detainment and possibly arrest. Emergency services will also be suspended during the curfew hours, which lift at 7 A.M. each day. There is conflicting information about times and details, which we will seek to clarify in our next broadcast.

"Stay tuned to Vox News for that information and updates on these horrific events. The current and former mayor are expected to issue statements soon, and we will have a resident expert on domestic terrorism join us at our next broadcast. We will also be sharing the location of a few corporate-sponsored resource centers being set up to aid families during this crisis. Stuffer Shack has pledged to provide one thousand of its soyrrito meals to residents for free, only requiring an active DNI link per meal claimed.

"Stay strong, Seattle. Our hearts are with the families who have suffered loss today. We'll be updating you soon.

"This has been Karen Complex for Vox News, signing off."

A jazzy outro plays before an ad for MCT flashes up to replace the news. It already heavily features racially-driven imaging meant to neutrally appeal to any of many different loyalties and mindsets in Seattle.