Comedian
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| The Comedian (Scenesys ID: 1522) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| |||
| Quote | |||
| "Listen... once you figure out what a joke everything is, being the Comedian's the only thing that makes sense." "If I have to come back here, you won't wake up to music. You won't wake up at all. That's a truth you can bank on." | |||
| Profile | |||
| Full Name: | Edward Morgan Blake | ||
| Gender: | Male | ||
| Species: | Human | ||
| Theme: | DC (FC) | ||
| Occupation: | Government Agent / Vigilante | ||
| Citizenship: | Unites States of America | ||
| Residence: | Ask the CIA | ||
| Education: | Government Training | ||
| Status: | Dropped | ||
| Groups: | Watchmen | ||
| Other Information | |||
| Apparent Age: | 44 | Actual Age: | 44 |
| Date of Birth | 4 January 1980 | Actor: | Jeffrey Dean Morgan |
| Height: | 188 cm (6'2") | Weight: | 102 kg (225 lbs.) |
| Hair Color: | Brown | Eye Color: | Brown |
| Theme Song: | "God Bless America" - Irving Berlin "House of the Rising Sun" - The Animals | ||
Contents
Profile
From New York Harbor to Kosovo, Congo, Afghanistan, Kenya, Guatemala, Philippines, Tibet, Ukraine, Burundi, Spain, Libya, Bulgaria, Colombia, Somalia...
Edward Morgan Blake has been around the world on behalf of his Government. Extensive training improved his combat skills and conditioning, with decades of fighting sharpening his tactical abilities and improvisational skills.
Possessing no superpowers to speak of, Blake is still considered one of the Government's most reliable agents. His connections within the CIA/FBI/DoD have made him first choice for many 'grey area' missions. Assassinating dozens of activists/politicans/'problems' on foreign AND domestic soil, he's convinced himself that 'morality' is a joke.
Though he does enjoy himself with numerous vices, The Comedian has a decidedly cynical outlook on life which he disguises with his act as wise-cracking, aloof mercenary. The dark, unspoken side of the American Dream.
Sheet
Description
ExpandClick to expand.
Looking like a G.I Joe action figure brought to life, Edward Morgan Blake - in or out of costume - is a massive, wide-shouldered, barrel-chested individual; his years on the battlefield and his work with the Government took a youthful, wirey vigilante from the Docks and molded him into a hardened, professional soldier through years of combat and drills. Even out of his trademark costume, in whatever Hawaian shirts or evening wear he might find himself in while on-leave, the man is physically imposing at 6'2" and 225lbs - still managing an impressive physique for a man who is now middle-aged, his body looking years younger through virtue of intense training despite a lifestyle of what some could call 'excess' when not on-duty.
If he bothered to shave the moustache and stubble, his lantern jaw and mischevious brown eyes might make traditionally handsome, even though his face shows the stress of his experiences that his body seems to carry little sign of. It's mostly in his eyes, the sense that this man has seen and done things that nobody should - despite the smug smirk and bad jokes he's usually cracking in the middle of a bloody shootout.
His costume definitely marks him as an American, two massive shoulder-pads connected to his black bulletproof armour. One shoulder is blue with a single, large white star - the other, red and white stripes. The American Dream given shape and voice - in a darker, more realistic way than certain others people might want to elevate to 'American Icon'. Slung across his vest is usually a variety of grenades for the modified M79 grenade launcher carried around his shoulder. A M1911A1 .45 pistol is in a holster on his hip, and he often carries his trademark, custom-built shotgun on his person as well - though he will switch his loadout depending on the job given. When in costume, he generally wears a stick-on black, almost 'Zorro'-esque mask on his face to cover the area around his eyes. Not the best disguise given his trademark, easily recognizeable lower face and, particularly, self-amused smile.
Occasionally, when the situation calls for real stealth or discreteness, he will wear a full-face leather mask to cover all his features and give him a bit more deniability if spotted in the field - but do you have any idea how HOT that thing gets? Jeeeeez. No THANK you.
If he bothered to shave the moustache and stubble, his lantern jaw and mischevious brown eyes might make traditionally handsome, even though his face shows the stress of his experiences that his body seems to carry little sign of. It's mostly in his eyes, the sense that this man has seen and done things that nobody should - despite the smug smirk and bad jokes he's usually cracking in the middle of a bloody shootout.
His costume definitely marks him as an American, two massive shoulder-pads connected to his black bulletproof armour. One shoulder is blue with a single, large white star - the other, red and white stripes. The American Dream given shape and voice - in a darker, more realistic way than certain others people might want to elevate to 'American Icon'. Slung across his vest is usually a variety of grenades for the modified M79 grenade launcher carried around his shoulder. A M1911A1 .45 pistol is in a holster on his hip, and he often carries his trademark, custom-built shotgun on his person as well - though he will switch his loadout depending on the job given. When in costume, he generally wears a stick-on black, almost 'Zorro'-esque mask on his face to cover the area around his eyes. Not the best disguise given his trademark, easily recognizeable lower face and, particularly, self-amused smile.
Occasionally, when the situation calls for real stealth or discreteness, he will wear a full-face leather mask to cover all his features and give him a bit more deniability if spotted in the field - but do you have any idea how HOT that thing gets? Jeeeeez. No THANK you.
History
ExpandClick to expand.
1998 - 1999: Kosovo War (NATO Forces) - given broad leeway to conduct his own missions in-the-field. Many NATO and American Officers noted as being displeased with Blake's attitude during training, deployment and his first weeks on-the-ground. Several successful strikes against Yugoslavian forces win him the respect of his 'fellow' soldiers. During this time, he is utilized (zero convincing necessary, it should be noted) by the CIA to conduct his first off-the-books assassination of important Yugoslav and Russian 'non-combatants' in the region.
1999 - 2001: Second Congo War (advisor to various militias)
2001 - 2002: Afghanistan (American Forces)
Late 2002 - onward: Returned home on charges of murdering numerous POWs. Blake deemed 'too valuable' an asset to abandon - charges swept under the rug, no official record exists available to the public. He is not listed as operating in any official capacity for the U.S. Army after this point, instead focusing on work for the Intelligence Agencies that have increasingly taken note of his particular skills and lack of morality. Most missions too high-security to be documented in any way, but some rumoured as follows:
2003: Francisco Ortiz Franco - journalist Mexico - killed
2004: Hatem Kamil - deputy governor Baghdad province Iraq - killed
2008: Muhammad Suleiman - general Syria - killed
2009: Kingara and Oulo - human rights activists Kenya - killed
2009: Mbongeleni Zondi - politican South Africa - killed
2011: Abdul Fatah Younis - commander-in-chief Libya - killed
2013: Mohamed Brahmi - opposition leader Tunisia - killed
2014: Isabel Carrasco - governor of Leon Spain - killed
2017: Emmanuel Niyonkuru - minister of water and energy Burundi - killed
2020: Senator <REDACTED> - United States of America - killed
EDWARD MORGAN BLAKE, A.K.A. 'THE COMEDIAN' - HISTORY
CLASSIFICATION: ABOVE TOP-SECRET
SOURCE: RECORDS -- FBI, DOD, CIA, SHIELD, NSA, INTERPOL & TESTIMONY -- SENATOR <REDACTED> (DECEASED).
NOTE: LIST OF SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS INCOMPLETE FOR REASONS OF DENIABILITY.
01-04-1980: Born Brooklyn NYC, lower-middle class parents. Psychological debriefing and character interviews with known neighbours/friends of family detail numerous abusive incidents in the man's youth. Becomes sullen, violent, short-tempered as time passes. Becomes a petty neighbourhood hoodlum, leading to...
early 1995: Arrested by New York City Juvenile Authority on charges of assault, theft, and arson. Taken away from parents and put into foster care in lieu of jail-time.
mid 1995: Becomes masked vigilante 'The Comedian' and begins to work the streets, primarily around New York Harbor. Breaks up numerous shipments and illicit deals, takes down mid-level Underworld figures (often personally enriching himself with goods and cash from the crime scene). This crusade leads to him personally delivering high-level Mafia and crime associates to Police custody; again, sans wallets or bankrolls.
late 1995: Begins working with a group of other costumed vigilantes based in and around New York City, the youngest member of the group at the time.
mid 1996: On a unanimous vote, Edward Blake is banished from his team of vigilantes after assaulting one of the female members. Immediately, he goes back to working the streets solo.
1998 - 1999: Kosovo War (NATO Forces) - given broad leeway to conduct his own missions in-the-field. Many NATO and American Officers noted as being displeased with Blake's attitude during training, deployment and his first weeks on-the-ground. Several successful strikes against Yugoslavian forces win him the respect of his 'fellow' soldiers. During this time, he is utilized (zero convincing necessary, it should be noted) by the CIA to conduct his first off-the-books assassination of important Yugoslav and Russian 'non-combatants' in the region.
1999 - 2001: Second Congo War (advisor to various militias)
2001 - 2002: Afghanistan (American Forces)
Late 2002 - onward: Returned home on charges of murdering numerous POWs. Blake deemed 'too valuable' an asset to abandon - charges swept under the rug, no official record exists available to the public. He is not listed as operating in any official capacity for the U.S. Army after this point, instead focusing on work for the Intelligence Agencies that have increasingly taken note of his particular skills and lack of morality. Most missions too high-security to be documented in any way, but some rumoured as follows:
2003: Francisco Ortiz Franco - journalist Mexico - killed
2004: Hatem Kamil - deputy governor Baghdad province Iraq - killed
2008: Muhammad Suleiman - general Syria - killed
2009: Kingara and Oulo - human rights activists Kenya - killed
2009: Mbongeleni Zondi - politican South Africa - killed
2011: Abdul Fatah Younis - commander-in-chief Libya - killed
2013: Mohamed Brahmi - opposition leader Tunisia - killed
2014: Isabel Carrasco - governor of Leon Spain - killed
2017: Emmanuel Niyonkuru - minister of water and energy Burundi - killed
2020: Senator <REDACTED> - United States of America - killed
Personality
ExpandClick to expand.
The product of an abusive lower-class Brooklyn upbringing, Edward Blake was already a cruel and short-tempered individual even before he was tapped for service with the U.S. Government committing all kinds of questionable, immoral acts. In fact, he had already been kicked off his very first 'vigilante team' before he was even out of his teens for assaulting one of the female members behind closed doors. Rather than acting out of some sense of vengeance or desire to help the common man like many of his fellow crime-fighters, The Comedian's primary two motivations when he first got into the game were to beat off the boredom that came with civilian life (and since he had already been picked up once for arson & theft in his youth, he didn't think there was much of a future as an out-and-out criminal), and also to personally enrich himself with money and various illegal goods from gangs he busted up.
Blake's entire reason for being has always been a self-serving one, even when acting in service to his country it's only to ingratiate himself with the shadowy men of power in Washington or Langley, and not to perform any patriotic duty to his country. He's a complete realist, and he fully understands that - while he COULD pretend that everything he does is for the greater good (and it often is the lesser of two evils) - doing so would simply be idiotic, 'boy scout' behavior he might call it. He finds the obtuse, ignorant, endlessly optimistic 'superheros' of the world to be both idiotic and willfully ignorant.
One of his main points in life is to always keep himself amused, no matter how dark the situation - this comes across as a black humour that few appreciate but the man himself, making light of deaths, war crimes, and numerous other heinous acts with a smug smile. Almost utterly without morals, he hasn't batted an eye at assassinating foreign Government bureaucrats who didn't fall in line with Washington, or murdering POWs on a bet, or destroying entire civilian villages to deny the enemy resources. He would simply describe himself as, rather than an evil man (as some would no doubt paint him) simply the 'ultimate pragmatist'. To try and unwind from the terrible acts he's forced to commit on behalf of his government, Blake has picked up quite the habit for booze, cigars and women (though the latter has been a vice he's had since his teenage years, the reason behind his unanimous banishment from his first attempt at a 'team-up').
Despite his cynical outlook on life and generally self-amused nature, The Comedian nevertheless considers himself a true professional. And pride in his work is one of the few completely serious things about the man - taking countless hours of his own free time to improve his own skills and remain in peak physical condition for a man his age. In a world of increasingly powerful mutants and other metahumans, the fact that he is able to operate as an unpowered middle-aged man simply by his wits and skills is a major point of pride to a narcissist like Blake. There are even rumours that he's been offered various enhancements by the CIA or other members of the U.S. Government - all of which he has, supposedly, turned down flat.
Though he puts on an uncaring front, Edward can be extremely bleak in his own private moments, taking a decidedly more fatalistic bent than the one he will typically show to others. In his line of work, thinking twice about missions in such a way is a quick path to a bullet in the back of the head - so he doesn't ever let the emotional mask of 'The Comedian' slip in public.
Blake's entire reason for being has always been a self-serving one, even when acting in service to his country it's only to ingratiate himself with the shadowy men of power in Washington or Langley, and not to perform any patriotic duty to his country. He's a complete realist, and he fully understands that - while he COULD pretend that everything he does is for the greater good (and it often is the lesser of two evils) - doing so would simply be idiotic, 'boy scout' behavior he might call it. He finds the obtuse, ignorant, endlessly optimistic 'superheros' of the world to be both idiotic and willfully ignorant.
One of his main points in life is to always keep himself amused, no matter how dark the situation - this comes across as a black humour that few appreciate but the man himself, making light of deaths, war crimes, and numerous other heinous acts with a smug smile. Almost utterly without morals, he hasn't batted an eye at assassinating foreign Government bureaucrats who didn't fall in line with Washington, or murdering POWs on a bet, or destroying entire civilian villages to deny the enemy resources. He would simply describe himself as, rather than an evil man (as some would no doubt paint him) simply the 'ultimate pragmatist'. To try and unwind from the terrible acts he's forced to commit on behalf of his government, Blake has picked up quite the habit for booze, cigars and women (though the latter has been a vice he's had since his teenage years, the reason behind his unanimous banishment from his first attempt at a 'team-up').
Despite his cynical outlook on life and generally self-amused nature, The Comedian nevertheless considers himself a true professional. And pride in his work is one of the few completely serious things about the man - taking countless hours of his own free time to improve his own skills and remain in peak physical condition for a man his age. In a world of increasingly powerful mutants and other metahumans, the fact that he is able to operate as an unpowered middle-aged man simply by his wits and skills is a major point of pride to a narcissist like Blake. There are even rumours that he's been offered various enhancements by the CIA or other members of the U.S. Government - all of which he has, supposedly, turned down flat.
Though he puts on an uncaring front, Edward can be extremely bleak in his own private moments, taking a decidedly more fatalistic bent than the one he will typically show to others. In his line of work, thinking twice about missions in such a way is a quick path to a bullet in the back of the head - so he doesn't ever let the emotional mask of 'The Comedian' slip in public.
Abilities
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{{{Abilities}}}
Skills
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BATTLE PLANS
Having spent years not only on the field of battle, but also being trained in matters of war, Edward Blake is able to plan and execute his operations about as good as any current Government agent. This planning comes off as a fluidity in a firefight, seemingly moving on instinct alone - picking his targets as he goes and generally being able to guess the angles of incoming fire. He has a true flair for utilizing all the available intel and resources and guiding a situation towards the desired outcome.
In addition to an ability to operate solo, The Comedian has experience and skills in planning larger-scale operations involving many men, or even entire units from multiple directions of approach. He is frequently called in by the U.S. Government to 'consult' or 'advise' on certain tricky battlefield or hostage situations. These skills translate across a wide variety of environments - from close-range, civilian-heavy urban situations to more secluded, rural areas of operation.
CQC
Already skilled as a wild brawler before he was picked up by the Government, Blake has since been trained for decades in numerous forms of hand-to-hand combat (though he eschews most 'Kung-Fu crap', he has studied Judo - as well as traditional wrestling - in addition to boxing and military training more focused on swiftly disabling/disarming hostile opponents).
He's got plenty of experience fighting up-close-and-personal with knives, batons, bats, etc; and due to his quick wits, he can generally find a weapon in any given environment at a moment's notice. Due to his extensive training and naturally good genetics, Blake (even in his middle age) can hold his own against - and generally overcome - multiple unpowered opponents in close quarters.
EXPLOSIVES
Trained with not only various grenades and RPGs (as well as his trademark, highly-customized M79 grenade launcher he lovingly totes into most battles). Blake is adept at improvising explosives given limited resources. He is also capable of preparing and setting traditional explosive charges (he has taken various Army Corps of Engineers courses; so he knows a structure's weakest points). Also given training on bomb defusal, though he is hardly an expert in the field and certainly not the first pick for anything remotely high-tech... he's more at the level of 'knows to cut the green wire, not the blue wire'.
FIREARMS
Trained with a variety of handguns, shotguns, rifles, flamethrowers, etc over decades of use. He can field-strip, clean, and reassemble most weapons as quick as the fastest, most experienced human soldier. His skill with aim is impeccable, both up-close with his patented shotgun and from long distance with a rifle; known as one of the top non-meta marksmen in the world. He's been fighting so long, in wars and on the streets, that using guns is instinct to the Comedian.
His status as highly-ranked Intelligence asset gives him access to all sorts of unique, cutting-edge weaponry - as such, he has been trained with futuristic prototypes. If it's a projectile weapon and it might possibly find it's way into someone's hands in the near-future, it's likely that Blake has heard about it - and what's more, can be relied upon to operate it in the middle of a firefight. He legitimately loves guns, and so will take the time to study the most up-to-date technology, giving him an edge when facing opponents who might use such weapons in combat.
INVESTIGATION
His early time as solo crime fighter sharpened the man's already-quick wits and critical thinking skills, in regards to investigating the scene of a crime and tracking down workable intelligence. Starting with no information or outside resources, a 16-year old Blake was capable of running down leads and finding his way to the top of numerous criminal organizations around New York City. Time has only improved his natural ability for getting to the bottom of such matters.
Not only naturally skilled when it comes to investigation, he has since been trained in numerous forensic matters also. These include lifting prints, calculating bullet trajectories, finding those who would rather remain hidden, and so on. He's no Batman, but he's not the mindless mercenary that a lot of people believe he is.
LANGUAGES
Trained by the U.S. Army and, later, the CIA and other Intelligence agencies in various languages, Edward Blake is somewhat capable of understanding, speaking, reading and writing many languages in addition to English. Though he possesses a rudimentary, working knowledge of close to a dozen languages as a result of his globe-trotting Intelligence and mercenary work, Blake finds himself preferring some notice and time to brush up on his skills before being imbedded in a region for an important operation.
A remarkably quick learner; with a bit of advanced warning and time to prepare his language skills, he can be prepared to infiltrate a particular part of the world and pass as a regular (in, at minimum, a semi-believable manner). This also enables him to spot and read valuable pieces of intel while in the field.
ON THE FLY
One of Blake's most valuable skills - and one that required no training whatsoever - is his unique, improvisational thinking both in a battle and outside of one. He moves from cover to cover in ways that surprise the enemy. He enters a room using methods that might not have been considered. He often changes tactics mid-fight in order to keep his actions unpredictable. He can always be counted on throwing a few curveballs towards an enemy. In addition, he's incredibly creative in a fistfight, making use of objects and obstacles nearby that others might not even consider - giving him a slight edge when facing multiple opponents, or those who possess meta-human or mutant abilities. It's not much, but as a middle-aged human in a world of flying teenagers, The Comedian needs every edge he can get.
Fortunately, he's DAMNED good at finding that edge in the middle of a shoot-out or fist-fight.
In addition, this quickness of thought means he is a remarkably fast study in most topics or fields he takes an interest in - namely, anything to do with warfare or spycraft. He can polish skills with a new language as fast as most professional linguists, he can bring himself up-to-speed on the controls of a futuristic vehicle in a short amount of time, and learn how to operate a new weapon on-the-go in the middle of battle. Though he might have a gruff and simple exterior, The Comedian is hiding a brilliant (albeit unorthodox, immoral and narrowly applied) mind.
PHYSICAL PROWESS
Due in part to great 'Blake' family genetics, and in part to an intense regiment of exercise, Edward is (even in his 40s) in better shape than most men a decade younger than himself. Approaching the peak of human strength and endurance, he also possesses a willpower and capacity for withstanding pain that borders on inhuman - making The Comedian a potent threat in close-quarters against unprepared foes. Capable of punching through walls and denting pillars without sustaining permanent damage to his hands, he can lift weights that could make him a world-class powerlifter for his size.
225+ lbs of almost pure muscle, he also has remarkable stamina for a man who drinks and smokes; able to march long distances in harsh conditions with heavy loads, only stopping to rest when strictly necessary. In addition, he can take a lot of punishment, able to continue to operating in the field with severe injuries. Weighed down as he is by his usual loadout of equipment for any given mission, Blake is still remarkably quick when in-action - displaying a speed that often surprises his enemies, and reaction times that are far above what a man his age should still possess.
SPYCRAFT
He might prefer the straight-forward approach whenever it's available, but that doesn't mean Edward Blake is some kind of unthinking grunt. Quite the opposite - he's been trained and has years of experience carrying out undercover missions. He can hack through standard computer encryption if given enough time, work most kinds of radios to broadcast details back to headquarters, change his appearance as necessary, forge documents and passports by-hand, disguise his voice, convince an enemy asset to trust him with information, withstand interrogation... he even knows how to torture someone while still leaving them able to talk, all the usual spy tricks.
And he's very good at his job.
VEHICLES
Experienced behind the wheel/controls of most military or civilian vehicles: cars, APCs, tanks, helicopters, B-52s, private aircraft, boats, motorcycles, etc. Experienced in using vehicles as weapons or shock elements to stun unprepared opponents - he has the skills of a stunt driver on land vehicles, and can even pull off some impressive tricks in the air (though he is no fighter pilot, and prefers to stay on-ground when possible).
Blake is well-versed with both low-tech and high-tech vehicles, capable of piloting or driving many futuristic crafts since his Government contacts keep him on the cutting-edge, training-wise. He is often fully trained on a vehicle by the time it is implemented in the field by U.S. Forces.
WETWORK
Despite his preference for shock and awe tactics when possible (and his start as a bare-knuckle, crime-fighting vigilante), Blake has spent many years being trained by the CIA and various Special Forces units to operate behind enemy lines in the role of assassin or saboteur. Even with his large frame and general odor of cigar smoke, he is incredibly quiet and stealthy when the mission calls for it.
Blake has proven himself capable of sticking to the shadows and infiltrating a well-guarded enemy facility in order to slit one very specific throat (then exfiltrating the area with no other casualties, depending on the mission). He knows how to disable communications systems, sow chaos in enemy ranks, sabotage military/civilian vehicles, and so forth.
Having spent years not only on the field of battle, but also being trained in matters of war, Edward Blake is able to plan and execute his operations about as good as any current Government agent. This planning comes off as a fluidity in a firefight, seemingly moving on instinct alone - picking his targets as he goes and generally being able to guess the angles of incoming fire. He has a true flair for utilizing all the available intel and resources and guiding a situation towards the desired outcome.
In addition to an ability to operate solo, The Comedian has experience and skills in planning larger-scale operations involving many men, or even entire units from multiple directions of approach. He is frequently called in by the U.S. Government to 'consult' or 'advise' on certain tricky battlefield or hostage situations. These skills translate across a wide variety of environments - from close-range, civilian-heavy urban situations to more secluded, rural areas of operation.
CQC
Already skilled as a wild brawler before he was picked up by the Government, Blake has since been trained for decades in numerous forms of hand-to-hand combat (though he eschews most 'Kung-Fu crap', he has studied Judo - as well as traditional wrestling - in addition to boxing and military training more focused on swiftly disabling/disarming hostile opponents).
He's got plenty of experience fighting up-close-and-personal with knives, batons, bats, etc; and due to his quick wits, he can generally find a weapon in any given environment at a moment's notice. Due to his extensive training and naturally good genetics, Blake (even in his middle age) can hold his own against - and generally overcome - multiple unpowered opponents in close quarters.
EXPLOSIVES
Trained with not only various grenades and RPGs (as well as his trademark, highly-customized M79 grenade launcher he lovingly totes into most battles). Blake is adept at improvising explosives given limited resources. He is also capable of preparing and setting traditional explosive charges (he has taken various Army Corps of Engineers courses; so he knows a structure's weakest points). Also given training on bomb defusal, though he is hardly an expert in the field and certainly not the first pick for anything remotely high-tech... he's more at the level of 'knows to cut the green wire, not the blue wire'.
FIREARMS
Trained with a variety of handguns, shotguns, rifles, flamethrowers, etc over decades of use. He can field-strip, clean, and reassemble most weapons as quick as the fastest, most experienced human soldier. His skill with aim is impeccable, both up-close with his patented shotgun and from long distance with a rifle; known as one of the top non-meta marksmen in the world. He's been fighting so long, in wars and on the streets, that using guns is instinct to the Comedian.
His status as highly-ranked Intelligence asset gives him access to all sorts of unique, cutting-edge weaponry - as such, he has been trained with futuristic prototypes. If it's a projectile weapon and it might possibly find it's way into someone's hands in the near-future, it's likely that Blake has heard about it - and what's more, can be relied upon to operate it in the middle of a firefight. He legitimately loves guns, and so will take the time to study the most up-to-date technology, giving him an edge when facing opponents who might use such weapons in combat.
INVESTIGATION
His early time as solo crime fighter sharpened the man's already-quick wits and critical thinking skills, in regards to investigating the scene of a crime and tracking down workable intelligence. Starting with no information or outside resources, a 16-year old Blake was capable of running down leads and finding his way to the top of numerous criminal organizations around New York City. Time has only improved his natural ability for getting to the bottom of such matters.
Not only naturally skilled when it comes to investigation, he has since been trained in numerous forensic matters also. These include lifting prints, calculating bullet trajectories, finding those who would rather remain hidden, and so on. He's no Batman, but he's not the mindless mercenary that a lot of people believe he is.
LANGUAGES
Trained by the U.S. Army and, later, the CIA and other Intelligence agencies in various languages, Edward Blake is somewhat capable of understanding, speaking, reading and writing many languages in addition to English. Though he possesses a rudimentary, working knowledge of close to a dozen languages as a result of his globe-trotting Intelligence and mercenary work, Blake finds himself preferring some notice and time to brush up on his skills before being imbedded in a region for an important operation.
A remarkably quick learner; with a bit of advanced warning and time to prepare his language skills, he can be prepared to infiltrate a particular part of the world and pass as a regular (in, at minimum, a semi-believable manner). This also enables him to spot and read valuable pieces of intel while in the field.
ON THE FLY
One of Blake's most valuable skills - and one that required no training whatsoever - is his unique, improvisational thinking both in a battle and outside of one. He moves from cover to cover in ways that surprise the enemy. He enters a room using methods that might not have been considered. He often changes tactics mid-fight in order to keep his actions unpredictable. He can always be counted on throwing a few curveballs towards an enemy. In addition, he's incredibly creative in a fistfight, making use of objects and obstacles nearby that others might not even consider - giving him a slight edge when facing multiple opponents, or those who possess meta-human or mutant abilities. It's not much, but as a middle-aged human in a world of flying teenagers, The Comedian needs every edge he can get.
Fortunately, he's DAMNED good at finding that edge in the middle of a shoot-out or fist-fight.
In addition, this quickness of thought means he is a remarkably fast study in most topics or fields he takes an interest in - namely, anything to do with warfare or spycraft. He can polish skills with a new language as fast as most professional linguists, he can bring himself up-to-speed on the controls of a futuristic vehicle in a short amount of time, and learn how to operate a new weapon on-the-go in the middle of battle. Though he might have a gruff and simple exterior, The Comedian is hiding a brilliant (albeit unorthodox, immoral and narrowly applied) mind.
PHYSICAL PROWESS
Due in part to great 'Blake' family genetics, and in part to an intense regiment of exercise, Edward is (even in his 40s) in better shape than most men a decade younger than himself. Approaching the peak of human strength and endurance, he also possesses a willpower and capacity for withstanding pain that borders on inhuman - making The Comedian a potent threat in close-quarters against unprepared foes. Capable of punching through walls and denting pillars without sustaining permanent damage to his hands, he can lift weights that could make him a world-class powerlifter for his size.
225+ lbs of almost pure muscle, he also has remarkable stamina for a man who drinks and smokes; able to march long distances in harsh conditions with heavy loads, only stopping to rest when strictly necessary. In addition, he can take a lot of punishment, able to continue to operating in the field with severe injuries. Weighed down as he is by his usual loadout of equipment for any given mission, Blake is still remarkably quick when in-action - displaying a speed that often surprises his enemies, and reaction times that are far above what a man his age should still possess.
SPYCRAFT
He might prefer the straight-forward approach whenever it's available, but that doesn't mean Edward Blake is some kind of unthinking grunt. Quite the opposite - he's been trained and has years of experience carrying out undercover missions. He can hack through standard computer encryption if given enough time, work most kinds of radios to broadcast details back to headquarters, change his appearance as necessary, forge documents and passports by-hand, disguise his voice, convince an enemy asset to trust him with information, withstand interrogation... he even knows how to torture someone while still leaving them able to talk, all the usual spy tricks.
And he's very good at his job.
VEHICLES
Experienced behind the wheel/controls of most military or civilian vehicles: cars, APCs, tanks, helicopters, B-52s, private aircraft, boats, motorcycles, etc. Experienced in using vehicles as weapons or shock elements to stun unprepared opponents - he has the skills of a stunt driver on land vehicles, and can even pull off some impressive tricks in the air (though he is no fighter pilot, and prefers to stay on-ground when possible).
Blake is well-versed with both low-tech and high-tech vehicles, capable of piloting or driving many futuristic crafts since his Government contacts keep him on the cutting-edge, training-wise. He is often fully trained on a vehicle by the time it is implemented in the field by U.S. Forces.
WETWORK
Despite his preference for shock and awe tactics when possible (and his start as a bare-knuckle, crime-fighting vigilante), Blake has spent many years being trained by the CIA and various Special Forces units to operate behind enemy lines in the role of assassin or saboteur. Even with his large frame and general odor of cigar smoke, he is incredibly quiet and stealthy when the mission calls for it.
Blake has proven himself capable of sticking to the shadows and infiltrating a well-guarded enemy facility in order to slit one very specific throat (then exfiltrating the area with no other casualties, depending on the mission). He knows how to disable communications systems, sow chaos in enemy ranks, sabotage military/civilian vehicles, and so forth.
Resources
ExpandClick to expand.
CIA
Moving from contracting with the U.S. Military into working directly for the country's Intelligence agencies, Blake has many shadowy connections within the CIA (and NSA/DoD/FBI, among others) - the source of much of his information that, frequently, even goes past many within the Federal Government. The CIA runs a tight ship, and the Comedian is one of the few who have earned their veritable 'key to the kingdom'. There are many Station Chiefs around the globe and officers domestically who would not turn down a call from Eddie.
This means he has access to large amounts of intel. His above top-secret classification makes him privy to many secrets, both political (for use in blackmail) and military (knowledge regarding new weapons or large-scale threats) and gives him a good amount of leeway when it comes to requesting resources and personnel to complete his missions. Due to the CIA's extensive network of spies around the globe, he tends to have an in-place support network in most regions through these contacts - if he deems it necessary to reach out for help.
FAVOURS
Having worked in the military and intelligence fields - rubbing elbows and making friends with major political figures along the way - Edward Blake has naturally built up quite a few 'IOUs' for jobs done off-the-books, or information given to certain sources in the past. As a result, he has quite a few favours he is able to call in at any time; sources all the way from 'underworld drug lords' to 'senior Senators'. More than once, calling one of these 'connections' in the middle of a jam has kept him from severe disciplinary action or worse.
SAFEHOUSES
Edward Blake is no fool - as a deniable U.S. Intelligence asset and operative, it's possible that he might be betrayed and blacklisted without notice or time to prepare a getaway. As such, he has taken time to set up dozens of safehouses around the globe. These are all off the books, bought with cash and fake I.D.s to limit the chance of any of them being tracked down. He tends to only utilize these stockpiles these as a last resort, since due to his status with the Government he also has access to official safehouses and resources (and also to prevent others from following him to their location).
STOCKPILES
Inside his numerous safe-houses (and others buried/hidden in more remote locations), Blake has stored entire arsenals of weapons and ammunition - as well as fake passports, identification, disguises, replacement masks and armour, and etc. This enables him to rest and re-arm himself if left stranded without equipment, assuming he is able to find transport to one of these sites. Due to his time in the Intel communities, he's too paranoid to keep any written records (and thus keeps the locations in his head).
SUIT
Edward Morgan Blake originally fought crime in an unprotected yellow/purple outfit right out of the Silver Age. A run-in with a blade-wielding goon that was actually able to get the drop on him made Blake realize he needed something more, especially if he was going to continue moving his way up to deadlier and deadlier targets.
Creating a bulletproof vest out of various materials (usually stolen from mob stockpiles or deliveries he interrupted as a vigilante), The Comedian began assembling what is his modern suit. It has since been improved and enhanced with various cutting-edge technologies, making his front and back torso almost impervious to weapons short of adamantium or vibranium. He has large, impact-absorbing shoulder pads on both sides, allowing him to shove down any obstacles in his path when combined with his own natural strength. His legs and knees are similarly armoured with various pads and undergarment mesh.
There are numerous compartments in the suit to store ammo or hold weapons, including hidden ones that might escape notice. Some of the new technology built into the suit allows him to transport larger amounts of weapons and ammunition than might normally be carried with such speed.
Of course, he does leave the biceps and face unprotected. What's the point if he can't show people the way to the gun show? Pretend I didn't write that.
U.S. MILITARY
Though he hasn't been on-the-books in the U.S. Military since his war crimes in Afghanistan were covered-up by his friends in Washington, Blake still works as an independent 'contractor' or 'advisor' for the American Armed Forces - with all the perks, resources and clearances which come with that. In addition, he's built up a lot of friends in the service from his years working with American forces in numerous theatres of war.
Blake has many men (both veterans and active service) who owe some debt of gratitude to The Comedian. This ranges from him saving their lives in a firefight all the way to simply doing them some small favor they weren't supposed to receive. As such, he is able to get supplies, information and even back-up on the down-low by putting in the call to one of his higher-ranking friends at the Pentagon.
Moving from contracting with the U.S. Military into working directly for the country's Intelligence agencies, Blake has many shadowy connections within the CIA (and NSA/DoD/FBI, among others) - the source of much of his information that, frequently, even goes past many within the Federal Government. The CIA runs a tight ship, and the Comedian is one of the few who have earned their veritable 'key to the kingdom'. There are many Station Chiefs around the globe and officers domestically who would not turn down a call from Eddie.
This means he has access to large amounts of intel. His above top-secret classification makes him privy to many secrets, both political (for use in blackmail) and military (knowledge regarding new weapons or large-scale threats) and gives him a good amount of leeway when it comes to requesting resources and personnel to complete his missions. Due to the CIA's extensive network of spies around the globe, he tends to have an in-place support network in most regions through these contacts - if he deems it necessary to reach out for help.
FAVOURS
Having worked in the military and intelligence fields - rubbing elbows and making friends with major political figures along the way - Edward Blake has naturally built up quite a few 'IOUs' for jobs done off-the-books, or information given to certain sources in the past. As a result, he has quite a few favours he is able to call in at any time; sources all the way from 'underworld drug lords' to 'senior Senators'. More than once, calling one of these 'connections' in the middle of a jam has kept him from severe disciplinary action or worse.
SAFEHOUSES
Edward Blake is no fool - as a deniable U.S. Intelligence asset and operative, it's possible that he might be betrayed and blacklisted without notice or time to prepare a getaway. As such, he has taken time to set up dozens of safehouses around the globe. These are all off the books, bought with cash and fake I.D.s to limit the chance of any of them being tracked down. He tends to only utilize these stockpiles these as a last resort, since due to his status with the Government he also has access to official safehouses and resources (and also to prevent others from following him to their location).
STOCKPILES
Inside his numerous safe-houses (and others buried/hidden in more remote locations), Blake has stored entire arsenals of weapons and ammunition - as well as fake passports, identification, disguises, replacement masks and armour, and etc. This enables him to rest and re-arm himself if left stranded without equipment, assuming he is able to find transport to one of these sites. Due to his time in the Intel communities, he's too paranoid to keep any written records (and thus keeps the locations in his head).
SUIT
Edward Morgan Blake originally fought crime in an unprotected yellow/purple outfit right out of the Silver Age. A run-in with a blade-wielding goon that was actually able to get the drop on him made Blake realize he needed something more, especially if he was going to continue moving his way up to deadlier and deadlier targets.
Creating a bulletproof vest out of various materials (usually stolen from mob stockpiles or deliveries he interrupted as a vigilante), The Comedian began assembling what is his modern suit. It has since been improved and enhanced with various cutting-edge technologies, making his front and back torso almost impervious to weapons short of adamantium or vibranium. He has large, impact-absorbing shoulder pads on both sides, allowing him to shove down any obstacles in his path when combined with his own natural strength. His legs and knees are similarly armoured with various pads and undergarment mesh.
There are numerous compartments in the suit to store ammo or hold weapons, including hidden ones that might escape notice. Some of the new technology built into the suit allows him to transport larger amounts of weapons and ammunition than might normally be carried with such speed.
Of course, he does leave the biceps and face unprotected. What's the point if he can't show people the way to the gun show? Pretend I didn't write that.
U.S. MILITARY
Though he hasn't been on-the-books in the U.S. Military since his war crimes in Afghanistan were covered-up by his friends in Washington, Blake still works as an independent 'contractor' or 'advisor' for the American Armed Forces - with all the perks, resources and clearances which come with that. In addition, he's built up a lot of friends in the service from his years working with American forces in numerous theatres of war.
Blake has many men (both veterans and active service) who owe some debt of gratitude to The Comedian. This ranges from him saving their lives in a firefight all the way to simply doing them some small favor they weren't supposed to receive. As such, he is able to get supplies, information and even back-up on the down-low by putting in the call to one of his higher-ranking friends at the Pentagon.
Weaknesses
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FATALISM
Since he was a child, the Comedian has taken a cynical - if not self-amused - outlook on life. He's always tried as hard as possible to find the joke in daily life, as ugly and horrible as it is (and he wouldn't have it any other way). As he's aged and seen the horrors of war, commited unspeakable acts in the name of his country, had friends die and generally noticed the true way of the world he has become increasingly angry and fatalistic. Though he still maintains a comedic and light-hearted front at this point in time, the man can be downright nihilistic in private moments (though he would never show any regret to anyone else - maintaining the act as the 'Comedian' is still his top priority).
This deep-seated issue hasn't caused any problems yet, but it remains fertile ground for future psychological issues. As such, he tends to keep his truly bleak opinions from most people, including his top Government contacts. Hence the whole 'wise-cracking, uncaring professional' act, which he sticks to in all but the most private of circumstances.
FAVOURS
As well as picking up numerous favours from people he did work for, Blake ALSO has many outstanding 'IOU's for money borrowed and favours done (among them, getting his charges of murdering POWs in the Afghanistan dropped and completely swept under the rug) - and at any given time, a shady figure from his past could easily re-establish contact and demand payback on an old debt from The Comedian. Due to his shady past and the numerous assassinations he's carried out, these are generally not the kind of people one can say 'no' to, even as a top-clearance U.S. Intelligence agent in his own right.
Along these lines, any one of these individuals could (if pressed by the right entity) give up some serious dirt on Edward Blake's past. Even the man himself is unaware what kind of concrete evidence of his past deeds exists outside of the public light - there are no doubt some audio cassettes or video-tapes proving him guilty of some terrible act. Top-level blackmail material, were it to fall into the wrong hands.
STUBBORN
Arrogant and bull-headed, Edward Blake tends to have an issue with authority (except authority figures he respects, which are few and far between) and working with other people both in-combat and during his daily encounters. He has shown a tendency in battle to strike off on his own when it seems more conducive to completing the mission - even breaking formation when he senses a chance to strike an unaware opponent. As a result of his brash nature and disregard for most traditional authority, he's been brought up on numerous disciplinary charges - most of which have been swept under the rug by his Pentagon and CIA contacts.
UNFRIENDLY
Though he has managed to gain the respect or admiration of most soldiers who have had the experience of serving with him on-mission, Edward Blake is nevertheless an utterly unlikable individual. Though he has managed to make many friends and contacts in the Government and Military through his cutting wit and reliability on the job, even his fellow Vigilantes he is known to operate with can barely tolerate the man.
Among most? He's outright hated, if not for his war crimes and acts overseas, then for his hateful and violent personality. Allies or friends outside of the Government or fellow amoral soldiers are rare for Blake, and there is a long line of those who would love to see the man destroyed.
VICES
Liquor, cigars, women. Eddie Blake lives life like a man in his 20s, and it is almost certain to catch up to him someday. He is known to drink before, or even during, missions - and his cigar-smoke covered clothes can occasionally give him away when he's trying to be stealthy. An attractive woman might be able to get him to drop his guard, though he never lets it distract him from completing a mission. Nevertheless, Eddie REFUSES to consider giving up any of his vices.
Since he was a child, the Comedian has taken a cynical - if not self-amused - outlook on life. He's always tried as hard as possible to find the joke in daily life, as ugly and horrible as it is (and he wouldn't have it any other way). As he's aged and seen the horrors of war, commited unspeakable acts in the name of his country, had friends die and generally noticed the true way of the world he has become increasingly angry and fatalistic. Though he still maintains a comedic and light-hearted front at this point in time, the man can be downright nihilistic in private moments (though he would never show any regret to anyone else - maintaining the act as the 'Comedian' is still his top priority).
This deep-seated issue hasn't caused any problems yet, but it remains fertile ground for future psychological issues. As such, he tends to keep his truly bleak opinions from most people, including his top Government contacts. Hence the whole 'wise-cracking, uncaring professional' act, which he sticks to in all but the most private of circumstances.
FAVOURS
As well as picking up numerous favours from people he did work for, Blake ALSO has many outstanding 'IOU's for money borrowed and favours done (among them, getting his charges of murdering POWs in the Afghanistan dropped and completely swept under the rug) - and at any given time, a shady figure from his past could easily re-establish contact and demand payback on an old debt from The Comedian. Due to his shady past and the numerous assassinations he's carried out, these are generally not the kind of people one can say 'no' to, even as a top-clearance U.S. Intelligence agent in his own right.
Along these lines, any one of these individuals could (if pressed by the right entity) give up some serious dirt on Edward Blake's past. Even the man himself is unaware what kind of concrete evidence of his past deeds exists outside of the public light - there are no doubt some audio cassettes or video-tapes proving him guilty of some terrible act. Top-level blackmail material, were it to fall into the wrong hands.
STUBBORN
Arrogant and bull-headed, Edward Blake tends to have an issue with authority (except authority figures he respects, which are few and far between) and working with other people both in-combat and during his daily encounters. He has shown a tendency in battle to strike off on his own when it seems more conducive to completing the mission - even breaking formation when he senses a chance to strike an unaware opponent. As a result of his brash nature and disregard for most traditional authority, he's been brought up on numerous disciplinary charges - most of which have been swept under the rug by his Pentagon and CIA contacts.
UNFRIENDLY
Though he has managed to gain the respect or admiration of most soldiers who have had the experience of serving with him on-mission, Edward Blake is nevertheless an utterly unlikable individual. Though he has managed to make many friends and contacts in the Government and Military through his cutting wit and reliability on the job, even his fellow Vigilantes he is known to operate with can barely tolerate the man.
Among most? He's outright hated, if not for his war crimes and acts overseas, then for his hateful and violent personality. Allies or friends outside of the Government or fellow amoral soldiers are rare for Blake, and there is a long line of those who would love to see the man destroyed.
VICES
Liquor, cigars, women. Eddie Blake lives life like a man in his 20s, and it is almost certain to catch up to him someday. He is known to drink before, or even during, missions - and his cigar-smoke covered clothes can occasionally give him away when he's trying to be stealthy. An attractive woman might be able to get him to drop his guard, though he never lets it distract him from completing a mission. Nevertheless, Eddie REFUSES to consider giving up any of his vices.
Logs
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| Title | Date | Scene Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Recruitment! Pt. 3 | October 31st, 2017 | Summary needed |
| top kek | October 30th, 2017 | Summary needed |
Cutscenes
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| Title | Date | Scene Summary |
|---|---|---|
| No logs submitted yet. | ||
Gallery
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