Drunken Days for Nomos’ DA

News reaches Street Life as a startling development hits Nomos. The famed Drake Deacon, Metropol District Attorney, was apprehended last night after an apparent drunken dispute over an unknown matter. Reporters rushed to the scene after a swift notification, managing to capture the intoxicated and beaten Deacon being dragged out of Naked Lunch by his ankles.

Further investigation and questioning of those involved would lead our attention to Ace Direwytch, a dancer turned bounty hunter. When questioned she seemed very exultant to give us an insight. “Oh, well it was no problem really, I’m just glad I had a chance to help our wonderful justice system.” Ace responded to the reporters. “He had a bounty on his head and I took it upon myself to help out, the best I could.” Ace would add. What a doll, look out Metropol, you have competition. So the case closes on yet another chapter of Street Life, justice prevails and more holes rip open at the seams of our beloved Deacon’s mystery.

Naturally, Street Life strives to remain impartial and unbiased where we can and in defense of Mr. Deacon we sought out the opinion of Ex-Metrocop, Oogie Gallaway, also known as Chimera, who, incidentally was seen dragging his owner, Drake Deacon, out of Naked Lunch by his ankles.

Oogie stands in defense for Mr. Deacon.

"Well, He is D.A and I can imagine how stressful his job is...When I still worked for the Force, I was in a few court runs with him myself. There’s a lot to think about for the D.A."

The normally tall TV Headed Cyborg had developed a sort of guise resembling Mr. Deacon, a guise that is so near exact Mr. Gallaway could be mistaken for the D.A's son. Oogie prefers to wear this disguise for unknown reasons.

In other news it would seem that Mr. Gallaway's Birthday is coming up this April 24th, he will be turning 235! In Orga years that’s 21! (OOCLY player Croue Battle turns 21.) Surely for such an occasion, a celebration is in order?

- Submitted by Oogie Gallaway and an Anonymous Source.

Metropol Investigate Disappearance of Young Woman

Street Life would like to bring its reader’s attention to the recent case of a young woman going missing in the city. Tawny Demonia was last seen by a close friend of her some days ago and is feared to be an official missing persons.

The District Attorney, Drake Deacon has released the following statement concerning Tawny’s disappearance.

“My office has also received inquiries about a woman named Tawny Demonia, she is not in our custody and is presumed missing. We are currently investigating the matter."

Whilst Street Life has near about every confidence in Metropol’s ability to find Miss Demonia, any information concerning her whereabouts and possible disappearance should be brought to the attention of the authorities immediately. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

- Niamh Brunswick.

Escape from Newgate!

Two dangerous criminals escape from SS Newgate amid tension and uncertainty within Metropol. Are those cracks finally beginning to show?

Despite spiraling crime levels in the city, recent times have been anything but smooth sailing for the officers and administrators at Metropol. Amidst a spate of devastating losses to the Metropol force, rumours of a missing woman and an intriguing bounty on the District Attorney’s head, they are now faced with the embarrassment of a prison breakout by one of Nomos’ most notorious criminals and a former officer.

The following statement concerning the prison break was released to the Street Life Office early this morning from the office of Drake Deacon, District Attorney.

"Metropol and the D.A.'s office would like to inform the public that the violent criminal known as "Toe" has escaped from Newgate Prison. Ex Officer Rafe Deerhunter has also escaped. These individuals are considered extremely dangerous. The public is to keep on high alert, and contact Metropol immediately if they encounter these individuals. We urge the citizens of Nomos to stay clear of these escapee's and NOT to attempt to apprehend them. With the recent conviction of Ex Officer Deerhunter, the public can rest assured that we will continue to prosecute anyone who breaks the law with extreme prejudice. We do not care if you are an officer, or a citizen. If you violate the law, you'll be sent to Newgate.”

Whilst Mr. Deacon’s reputation for hard-nosed justice is unquestionable, one might be so bold as to suggest to those at Metropol that when imprisoning criminals it might also be constructive to lock the door. Our notorious SS Newgate will hardly remain a deterrent to crime if even the most violent criminals are capable of simply walking free. Which, thus, begs the question as to how on earth such a serious breach of security was allowed to occur? Surely, given the violent and notorious nature of the two prisoners in question, simple logic would suggest extra precautions be taken? Quite clearly not.

To add to Metropol’s problematic week, one of their former officers was involved in the breakout, having been charged and sentenced to time in prison himself. Mr. Deacon may well emphasize Metropol’s willingness to prosecute their own but this only serves to give credence to concerns that Metropol is indeed home to several criminals, often thought to be above the law. The revelation that Mr. Deerhunter is a shifter also draws into question the efficiency of Metrotek screening methods for entering Metropol and Metrotek service in general. Could this possibly be the first sign of the corporation stumbling? Certainly, with the growing threat of organized movements there are real dangers that any sign of weakness could be quickly exploited.

It cannot be stressed enough, however, how important it is that the citizens of this city remain vigilant and very much aware of these two individuals. Should you encounter them, you are advised to contact Metropol immediately and avoid confrontation at all costs. One can only hope that those at Metropol are more effective in their capture tactics than those of confinement.

Niamh Brunswick

Images of the Week

Disturbing images have come to light of a MetroPol chase. Sources indicate the vehicle in question held two assailants and ended in flames. No citizens were injured during this chase.

StarByte arrives in Nomos

A new addition has entered the city in the form of an internet cafe. Though such establishments have been known to have been defunct since the late 21st century, the introduction of the StarByte cafe has brought a smile to many who have passed it so far.

"Yeah that is so what I know it is," commented one youth pressed up against the window, "This is going to be tre awesome!"

Although the excitement is evident in some residents, some

also seem concerned as to how or why the StarByte cafe is in existence in Nomos.

Silent whispers and speculation are already beginning to ripple throughout the neon streets about the residential demographic that is showing a keen interest in the opening of StarByte. Rumours are beginning to circulate that such an old system would attract potential hackers.

"With the technology rampaging through our current day and age, why would we need such a place?" one woman scowled, "If you ask me, its

asking for more trouble. Look at those kids drooling outside on the footpath there. They wouldn't have even been foetus' when this sort of thing was around. I smell a rat."

The question arises as to how Starbyte came to be in the first place. If the hearsay were to be confirmed, is MetroTek responsible? If so, is there no concern over risking their technology worth millions of $G with such a business.

MetroTek were unavailable for comment. However, the youths surrounding StarByte were happy to comment on the corporations behalf.

"We may have put it here, we may not have. We want the good citizens to enjoy it but don't really give a rat's ass who uses it," says one youth jumping off a milk crate after imitating a MetroTek official. "Look lady, who cares who put it here. Whatevs, it's here!"

StarByte Cafe is located across from MetroPol Station, and will be open for business soon.

Wedding Bells Chime at the Titty Twister

Street Life were able to exclusively get their hands on photographs of the marriage ceremony between residents Oogie Gallaway and Gack Gear at the Titty Twister this past Tuesday.

Photographs submitted by Magdalena Outlander

MetroTek, Nomos, The Law, and You

Magdalena Outlander, Esq.

We get a lot of immigrants to Nomos. In many ways, its an immigrant friendly town. There's work to be had, money to be made and plenty of goods and services to go around if your definition of "plenty" is low enough. Nomos runs much like any major city and most of the rules are easy enough to understand. One place where immigrants seem to get a nasty surprise, though, is the law. I've been working as a lawyer here in Nomos for some time now and I think its time some of these misconceptions were cleared up. Here's the very least that you, the new immigrant, should know about the law in our fair city.

First off, MetroTek makes the law. They own the property. The city of Nomos exists for MetroTek to provide value to the shareholders. There has never been a successful revolution. There are no elected officials. Everything serves the company. This means that you have exactly the rights that MetroTek gives you, no more and no less. If you don't like that you can exercise your right to get on a shuttle and go somewhere else.

As makers of the law, MetroTek makes laws that serve the interests of the company. To provide value to their shareholders the enforce these laws through fines. MetroPol is a business, just like any other. They make money by taking it from criminals who stole it. Before stealing and then railing against the unfairness of the system, remember that your stolen property is what pays MetroPol's salaries.

You can be arrested for anything or nothing. If you're an actual criminal, you can be arrested. If you don't register the right physiological responses to a Cop Bot, you can be arrested. If a cop doesn't like the way you look at him, you can be arrested. If someone files false charges, you can be arrested. The police can even arrest you now and charge you while you're in holding. This is legal. This is normal. This is Nomos.

You are guilty until proven innocent unanimously. Automated systems are considered sufficient evidence. Eyewitness testimony is considered sufficient evidence. Someone filing a police report is considered sufficient evidence. The defense can not question the prosecution's evidence after it has been presented. Unless you can prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are not a criminal, jurors are instructed to vote Guilty. While awaiting trial you are a ward of MetroPol and will find all your assets frozen. You can not work, access your ATM, use weapons or commit crimes.

Sound tough? Well it is. You can keep your head down or you can accept that these are the consequences. MetroTek does provide you with a few rights, though, and they are important ones.

You have the right to an attorney. This is not a guarantee. It just means that you are allowed to seek legal representation and have them present your case for you. You do not have the right to have a lawyer come see you in jail. You do not have the right to call a lawyer from jail. You only have the right to an attorney after you have been released pending trial. Not every lawyer will take every case and few of them work free. However, even the most inept lawyer can generally find a few technicalities to reduce your fines. The better ones know their way around the courtroom and may be able to get a not Guilty verdict from time to time. The very best ones get hired by the DA's office, bribed into retirement or just vanish in the night.

You have the right to a trial by jury. All trials are decided by a jury of 3-5 individuals. You or oyur lawyer may plead the best case possible to them and hope for results. The jury is randomly selected from your fellow citizens of Nomos, so every now and then you may find some sympathy, but don't count on it.

You or your lawyer have the right to begin the trial at your convenience. Granted, as a ward of MetroPol you will probably be in a hurry to start your trial and get back to normal. Don't rush in. If you have a lawyer, give him or her time to investigate all the facts. A few more hours without your crowbar may be the difference between paying more than your original fine and paying half of it. A skilled lawyer will know how to use this extra time to get you the best possible result. Let them do their work.

Coming soon, Part 2 - Empathy and The Law

From The Desk of Slash Morgath

Greetings My Friends,

As I write this an old year is dying and a new year beginning. With this new year come changes that have forced me to make some decisions regarding SlashMart Corporation and it's activities.

I am sad to announce that I will be closing SlashMart Corporation, it's News Stand affiliate, and the Nomos Business Alliance effective January 7th. This is when our rent and the agreements with our suppliers expire.

As you know my strategy with SlashMart has always been to give you the best goods for the cheapest prices possible. So I am also announcing the SlashMart Going Out of Business Sale!

We will be blowing everything out to the bare walls till the padlock goes on the doors! Prices will be so low that I just can't advertise them! Come one! Come all! Get everything you need at the best prices you will ever see!

Go see Slash! Go see Slash!! GO SEE SLASH!!!

The Inner Workings of a Notorious Criminal

"The Peanut is neither a pea or a nut."

Renickor Dartmouth

The 12 Rounds of Christmas- Skyway Arena

On the first day of Christmas my opponent gave to me... a black eye and a dislocated knee.

Didn't get that shotgun you wanted for Christmas, and much as you'd love to tell him what you think of it, Santa is nowhere to be found? Share the festive spirit with your fellow Nomos residents in no-holds-barred, nutcracking holiday combat. All they want for Christmas is your two front teeth. Yule never forgive yourself if you miss this opportunity. O come all ye faithful down to the Skyway Arena, 7PM SLT, Christmas Day and join us for a violent night, heedless of the wind and weather.

Intake for this event is unlimited, but there are six positions for advancement to the next round. If less than six people attend, all will automatically advance. If you can make it and would like to fight, it would be appreciated if you would sign up in this thread so we know whether we'll get the numbers we need.

There will be a 50G buy-in to the event, unless we find sponsorship, and the betting system should be active for those who wish to gamble on the fights. The 50G will be added to the prize pool, with the champion taking it all, so encourage others to accompany you to increase the potential prize, which starts at 500G put in by the Skyway Arena.

This event will be the first six rounds of the Twelve Rounds of Christmas. Six rounds of free-for-all combat with your weapon of choice (in training mode, to avoid the need for healing) with the last man standing advancing to the next stage of the competition.

The winners of this fight will be required to attend the follow-up on Boxing Day, unless the majority are unable to attend in which case we will postpone, for 1v1 fist fights to determine who advances to the semi-finals.

Too long? Didn't read?

FFA Tournament 7PM SLT, Christmas Day @ Skyway Arena.

((IM Puck Riverstone inworld or PM Major Arcana on the forums to ask questions, confirm your attendance or if you are interested in sponsoring the event.))

If there is a great interest in the event from those who cannot attend at the scheduled time, this is negotiable.

Look Out Nomos

Look out Nomos, there’s a new Sheriff in town.

With the arrival of a new District’s Attorney, will this bold new step

by Metrotek do anything to curb the rampant crime of our city?

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With the power and authority of Metropol

challenged more and more with each passing day, it would seem that the Metrotek Corporation has finally risen to the challenge and sent along a new District Attorney to crush the rampant criminalization of Nomos as well as the rebellious groups seeking to undermine Metrotek’s rule.

The arrival of Mr. Drake Deacon could well mark a turning point in how things are done in our city. Mr. Deacon is something of a driven and determined individual, intent on achieving his goals and bringing order to Nomos. Upon his arrival, his office issued this press release to Streetlife, outlining his approach to crime and criminality;

“If you come before this court, let it be known. I will personally see to it that if convicted, you will spend the rest of your miserable life in prison. And not the Holiday Inn we have down stairs where they bring you food, and allow you to shower. The REAL prison. SS Newgate. For the rest of their days. I personally guarantee it.”

Certainly this new hard-line approach could prove to be infinitely more effective in fighting crime, specifically repeat offenders and those who commit more serious offences. Even the most hardened criminals are known to be somewhat adverse to life-sentences in SS Newgate. However, what concerns this reporter is the prospect of potentially innocent citizens being caught up in the fervor of Mr. Deacons’ wrath. Not only would one then have to fear the sleazy corruption of Metropol but also the indiscriminate “justice” from the DA’s office.

Perhaps, this reporter might be so bold to suggest that instead of hounding the good citizens of Nomos, Mr. Deacon turn his attention to the true criminal underbelly of Nomos: Metropol. As citizens we are all too keenly aware of how Metropol rule the streets with an iron fist, irrespective of who is a criminal and who is not. This is the true injustice of the streets. Only time will tell if our new DA will do anything to rectify it.

Niamh Brunswick

An Acquired Taste for Murder?

The Naked Lunch Diner has always been a destination for Nomosians to kick back and relax to the melodic blues of old. However, recent events of the past week has had the diner snatch a bloody moment in time, resulting in the massacre of three Nomos civilians.

Former Naked Lunch manager Cajun [surname witheld] was amongst the deceased and already under speculation for underground dealings.

According to Metropol he was a notorious criminal that needed to be 'eliminated'. No official release has come from the offices of Metrotek, however Chief Kurt Flanx openly admits to the seige being a product of the corporation's orders.

"There was a criminal that the company wanted eliminated." he states. "We went there and did our job."

Passing witnesses had claimed that The Naked was surrounded by Metropol in the early hours of the night. The use of UV lights added much to the cities speculation of whether they were hunting the alleged undead.

Shots were fired and three had fallen. The other deceased residents were identified as Nami and Sin [surnames witheld]

Miss Daniel Kuro who had aquired new ownership of the Naked Lunch, claims to have still been cleaning up the bloody mess before letting the business re-open it's doors.

"Yes i was cleaning little bits of man up before i could open today," she says. "I found empty shell caseings under the couchs and all the furniture riddled with bullet holes."'

Valeryie Larix, who was present during the Metropol siege, was also present for comment on the night's events after having survived it all.

"We, me... Cajun, Sin and Nami. All just sitting here in the Naked Lunch. Cajun was enjoying his music, like usual. Then Metropol... It was a raid.." she stammers, "Cajun tried to reason with Kurt.. He just.. kept shouting to get us. Someone.. a flash bang. It was so loud. All of us were.. we couldn't do a thing. We were trapped."

Miss Larix's statements confirm the trauma that is potentially released from the brute force of Metropol.

When questioned about who was to take on the accountability of the deaths during this siege, Chief Flanx made no hesitation in raising his hand.

"I might as well take accountability for every death that takes place around here, but you know how it is, you're either with us or you're little people," he claims. "I'm just another hitman that Metrotek's hired, dont mistake me for anything more than that. Do I deserve everyone's hatred? Yes... I do."

The question now arises; Is such open brutality really the necessary path Metrotek are taking to get their way?

Stay tuned, Street Life are sure to investigate further.

A Rat Race for Fine Dining

Rumours have plagued the city over the last few weeks of Nomos eateries stocking their back rooms with rat meat.

Street Life sources indicate a number of possible disgruntled employees, or business owners are making use of this unsavoury option.

Street Life this morning sat down with Strontium Dog Diner manager Frederik Yalin for his thoughts on the city rat speculation.

"Well, i heard this too," he says. "You mean inferior rat meat that is signed as cow or other stuff? Or ya mean a delicious original rat burger?"

The original rat burger in which Mr Yalin is referring to is the special served up for certain clientele, who may have a taste for such rodents.

"I try to make ALL my customers content and happy, so if someone would demand rat burger,why shouldn't i serve them?", he quizzes. "On the other hand i can assure that i do everything to keep the high quality that the diner has. i am the last one who is interested in bad publicity"

Mr Yalin points out that whilst rat is a controversial ingredient on the menu of The Strontium, it's quality is assured to differ greatly to the variety that is rumoured to have contaminated other diners.

"You get what you order: It's that easy. Of course we don't take ratz from here. i won't take a bite of a nomos sewer rat, ya knows?" he claims "everyone knows about the ratz here and diseases. i import them from outside. Ya knows."

Mr Yalin continues to stress his concerns for allowing the infected rat meat to be sold over the counter.

"My biz is close to the cop station. do you fink i would sit here when they would find out i feed rat to them?" he chuckles "they would saw me into small pieces"

In terms of trusting the employees of The Strontium and avoiding the potential of theses 'sewer rats' making it into their kitchen, Mr Yalin has hired business partner Miss Betsabe Enzo to ensure things are kept in line.

"I even announced a co-tenant to keep an eye on the assistants," he states. "My companion. She is good in biz and marketing and very good in dealing with people. I couldn't imagine a better one."

According to this interview, The Strontium Dog Diner comes up clean in terms of the rumoured rat issue. It's claim for 'legitimate' rat meat will require further investigation. Street Life however will continue to investigate other eateries in the coming weeks so you really know what you're eating.

One citizen shows off his catch of the day

The Bigger They are, the Harder They Fall

After jaw-dropping revelations at the trial of Cassandra Nymphea, does this mark the beginning of the end for Metropol and Chief Kurt Flanx’s iron grip on the good city of Nomos?

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The infamous Winston Churchill once said that “A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on.” This reporter is here to testify, however, that this time, the truth has triumphed and most certainly caught up with the twisted lies of Metropol, and Chief Flanx has well and truly, been caught with his pants down.

It was not so long ago that this fine publication brought you the distressing story of the disappearance of the Club Primal dancer and hybrid, Cass. It is with a heavy heart that this reporter must confirm our worst fears. Cass was found to be murdered only recently and we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to her family and friends, who are no doubt grieving over such a tragic loss.

To say that the circumstances surrounding Cass’ death are suspicious would be a grave understatement. Sensationally, MetroPol arrested Cass’ twin sister; Cassandra Nymphea for the murder of her own sibling, on what we were led to believe was damning, physical evidence. When the prosecution, defense and jury gathered, however, the story was altogether something different. The scientific evidence provided by Dr. Cabalot Serenity underpinned the case of the prosecution. The good doctor claimed, amidst several disturbances, that the defendant Cassandra Nymphea had been psychologically tampered with by Psychotek and as a result, had been tagged with a “unique genetic marker” which made identification of even identical twins possible. The doctor went on to explain that after careful examination of the bullet found in the victims skull, it had been determined that the genetic markers belonged to that of her sister, proving, as Metropol claimed, that she was the murderer.

Throughout the entirety of the doctor’s statement there were several disturbances to the court, one of which would prove most interesting and damning to Metropol’s case and calls into question the very integrity of the whole organisation and its leadership. Officer Valeryie Larix would provide the bombshell of the night, in her dramatic outburst half-way through the case. Officer Larix revealed to the court that the entire prosecution was based on lies, designed to protect their own necks. Much to the notable distress of Chief Flanx, Miss Larix went on to describe how Cass really died. Quoting Officer Larix, herself and Lt. Derek Miles were questioning Miss Nymphea when, predictably with Metropol, things got out of hand. In defense of Officer Larix, Mr. Miles “shot for her [Cassandra’s] ear” but missed, killing her.

The official line from Metropol, as dictated by Chief Enforcer, Kurt Flanx is that “the defendant, Captain Derek Miles has admitted to the crime... despite our best intention to press on the trial and prove his innocence. He's gone home to his wife to bid his farewell before being sent to serve time in prison.” Has Justice been served? Hardly.

When questioned on the recent case, and the rampant accusations that he and his organisation had full knowledge of the facts revealed to us by Officer Larix and knowingly constructed a prosecution of lies and false evidence, Chief Flanx had this to say: “Those are in itself major accusations, ones that will not be tolerated by Metropol. We are the law enforcement agency in the city, our business is enforcing Metrotek law, and we do not serve the public's interest.” Perhaps then, ladies and gentlemen, it is time we began to serve our own interests.

The true question that lays before us citizens of Nomos goes beyond the brutal murder of one of our own. It is embedded in the dark and dirty underbelly of a corrupt Metropol and will eat away at our city if we do nothing to stop it. Why is it that we allow Metropol to figuratively and literally, get away with bloody murder? Why is it that we stand by and allow them to rule us with an iron fist, when they are clearly not even capable of a decent cover-up? These people are not only incompetent, they are dangerous and on a rampage and we, as citizens, should not stand for it.

Perhaps it is time that Metropol is reminded that serve Metrotek as they might, it is you and I who are the citizens of this city and we will demand fair and just treatment from our law enforcement. Justice may be blind but she is a punishing mistress and you cannot repress her forever. Retribution will be swift and fatal for those who thwart truth and justice, no matter how mighty they may be.

Niamh Brunswick

Dr. Cabalot Serenity's Science Report- New Virus Research

As it's become common knowledge, Nomos has a new strain of the Virus. Once only a minor nuisance, the virus has mutated, making the infected delirious and much more aggressive.

Because of the recent Nomos invasion by a swarm of virus infected zombies, which have also had the unfortunate side effect of infecting our rat population. I felt compelled to investigate and learn more about the nature of this new affliction. After retrieving archives and scientific journals from the deceased scientist who have besieged us with this plague, I'm saddened to report that once again, pencil pushing bureaucrats, concerned only with themselves and the "bottom line" are behind this abomination.

The infected miners were people once, with lives and families, trying to eek out a living by working the Numasol mines. Life in the Mines can be relentless, as they work long hours past the point of collapse because of productivity enhancement drugs they are forced to take as a part of their contract. But as the miners became increasingly more disenfranchised with their compensation, and the time away from their families, there was talk of forming a union.

MetroTek's response to this threat was to create a new "productivity enhancement" drug which would suppress their will, and cause them to forget both the amount of time they've spent in the mines, and their families.

The scientists extracted a toxin from a breed of Algae in the earth's oceans called "Pseudo-nitzschia."

The population of this algae explodes in rich concentrations of Iron. The iron and algae produce a red color which has been named the "Red Tide."

The toxin itself is called Domoic Acid ("Demon" on the streets). Domoic acid was originally isolated from the red alga in Japan back in 1958.

In humans, or any species with significant humanoid physiology, the toxin attacks the brain, producing confusion, memory loss and hallucinations. By modifying this toxin, the goal was to make the Miners work harder, and feel better about it. Instead, the toxin erased their brains and increased feelings of fear and aggression. The infected Miners see everyone except each other as a threat, feel no pain, and will relentlessly target and pursue anyone who gets in their way. Infected rats, who share many common physiological traits with humans, are affected the same way.

I have been working on a permanent cure, but the research is slow, and the outlook is not promising. Meditek has managed to create a new vaccine, modified from the vaccine against our original virus, but the effects are short lived. Every species afflicted with a harmful pathogen always seems to have a handful with a natural immunity. But I have not found any such subjects amongst the Nomos population, and so I'm stuck working with weakened strains of a live virus for a vaccine which wears off, creating no permanent antibodies. I remain both fascinated and frustrated by this new pathogen.