Bringer of Death

Otherworld Saga, Part 8: The Mutant and the Myth

Otherworld Saga, Part 8: The Mutant and the Myth

"...We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming with this breaking news bulletin. Earlier this afternoon, during what was supposed to be a routine press demonstration, the area of downtown West City fell under dangerous assault. The identity of the attackers has not yet been determined, and authorities say the assailants are still on the loose. Anyone in or near the downtown district should seek cover immediately until authorities declare the area safe again." He paused as a studio employee handed him a new briefing, then resumed. "Eyewitness accounts of the incident say the strange attackers came on the scene without warning or provocation. More intriguing still is the fact that their method of attack bore a distinct significance to the recent terrorist acts by the monster known as Cell. As of right now we can confirm there have been several injured and at least one fatality." The well-dressed man delivered the bulletin with steady poise, eyeing the camera professionally. "We will continue to update you on the situation as we receive updates, but in the meantime here's what we've gathered so far."

The female reporter beside him, dressed in a burgundy suit, continued the report. "The conference, which began as a simple expo by World Champion Martial Artist Hercule Satan, was interrupted when several blue-skinned terrorists appeared, claiming the desire to "challenge" our hero. We'll go now a clip of the scene earlier. Due to the disturbing nature of the footage you're about to see, viewer discretion is advised."

Official video of the first part of the attacks played on screen, showing everything, even the death of Borbonne, up until the crowd began to flee.

"The graphic images you just saw were recorded mere moments ago. Again, we must caution our viewers that the immediate threat to that area has not been lifted. The attackers are still on the loose, and there have also been numerous reports of earthquakes and intense thunder. Though our weather radar shows no storm activity, we've seen these same types of anomalies associated with Cell. We urge everyone in West City to stay where you are and lock all doors and windows."

"Emergency responders at the scene have taken several injured to the hospital. Wealthy businessman and former mayor, Demas Borbonne, was pronounced dead when responders arrived. The cause of death is still under investigation and has prompted rampant speculation, as video and witness accounts imply he was somehow impaled by a beam of light. Amateur footage seems to indicate the attackers responsible are not using traditional weaponry, but something else, something we've all seen all-too recently. Additionally, Borbonne appears to not have been the intended target, but rather another man who appears to push him into the attack. We currently have no information regarding the identity of the man in question, but will keep you updated with our search."

"Those fans of the great Mr. Satan may be scratching their heads, wondering how such an event could transpire under the champion's watchful eye? Well, while we don't yet know the answer to that, we can tell you there may have been other factors at play," Dianne said, turning to her colleague.

"That's correct. Investigators already on the scene have already theorized this may have been more than a publicity stunt gone wrong. Those of you who are regular viewers are probably aware that the deceased, Demas Borbonne, was recently put under investigation for money laundering, extortion, and confidence scams. Though never convicted, over the years he has been indicted multiple times for drug trafficking, gun running, gang violence, arson, and he is widely known for his strong gang ties."

"Even as a loyal supporter of the champ, I myself was immediately suspicious of why such a beloved hero like Mr. Satan would have any business dealings with such a widely-known lowlife in the first place," the female reporter said bluntly. "However, while we do not know the full nature of their relationship, we can tell you it appears as if Borbonne only recently met with Hercule. Reports say he was spotted exiting the Satan residence earlier this week, though we have no record of their interactions before now. As speculations regarding their ties continue, we now take you live on the scene to our ZTV reporter, Jimmy Firecracker. What's the latest, Jimmy?"