Citizen Thirteen
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APPEARANCE • PERSONALITY • POWERS & ABILITIES • EQUIPMENT • HISTORY • AFFILIATES • ARTWORK
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| PLAYER | @CitizenThirteen |
| Super Group | 
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| Rank | Team Leader |
| Current Affliations | GUIDE, The Throwaways |
| Former Affiliations | United States Army |
| Real Name | James G. Rodgers |
| Known Aliases | N/A |
| Gender | Male |
| Species | Human(Genetically and Cybernetically modified) |
| Birthdate | June 23 1974 |
| Place of Birth | Beaumont, Texas |
| Current Location | Paragon City, Rhode Island |
| Relatives | James A. Rodgers(Grandad), Sarah Rodgers(sister-in-law) |
| Apparent Age | 47 |
| Height | 6' 1" |
| Weight | 260 lbs |
| Eyes | Blue |
| Hair | Brown (graying) |
| Complexion | Rugged |
| Build | Athletic, Muscular |
| Notable Features | Cybernetic Arm |
| Identity | Not Secret |
| Citizenship | United States |
| Marital Status | Not Married |
| Occupation | Retired Military, Registered Superhero |
| Education | Bachelors in Criminal Justice, former Army Special Forces. |
| Fame |
National |
| Superhuman strength, speed, reflexes, and endurance. Moderate healing factor. Patriotic fervor. Expert marksman and gunslinger. Expert in Close Quarters Combatives. Extensive training and experience in military tactics and survival. | |
| Custom Patriotic Themed Body Armor - Dual Colt 1911 XSE .45 ACP Handguns - Bionic Arm Equipped With a Multitude of Tools | |
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The soldier, the gunslinger, the red-blooded American - CITIZEN THIRTEEN isn’t merely a patriotic icon; rather, he embodies stubborn American grit, exemplifying the essence of a United States Soldier. Standing resolute against those who threaten the freedoms enjoyed in daily life, he is ready to deploy an American sense of justice to all enemies seeking to intimidate and harm the innocent, regardless of the danger or the odds. In a world where individuals possess the strength to hurl tanks and enough speed to break the sound barrier, Thirteen may seem outmatched. However, his sheer willpower is his greatest strength, and he will persist until the mission is complete or he takes his last breath.
Born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, James Graham Rodgers enlisted in the US Army at eighteen as an 11B Infantryman. James accelerated his way to Green Beret in under five years, completing various military schools such as Airborne, Air Assault, and Ranger School along the way. He conducted combat operations until severe injuries in 2005, resulting in the loss of his arm. While an early medical retirement seemed imminent, his exemplary military records marked him as a potential recruit for Project Citizen, a black operations super soldier program. Determined to continue his service, James accepted this opportunity, transforming from an exemplary soldier into a Super Soldier through bioengineering and top-of-the-line cybernetics to replace his lost arm. Assigned the code name "CITIZEN THIRTEEN," denoting him as the thirteenth member in the program, he used this moniker for the next decade before retiring from military service in 2015.
After experiencing civilian life back home in Texas for a few years, James moved to Paragon City following an invitation from Agent Michael Wilson of GUIDE. GUIDE, a federally funded program, recruits and sponsors metahumans to become superheroes and icons of hope. Though not particularly enthusiastic about the public relations aspects of GUIDE, James Rodgers felt it could be his best chance to satisfy a yearning in his heart - to protect those who may not be able to protect themselves. Garbed in patriotic-themed tactical gear and registered with the FBSA under his old Project Citizen moniker, CITIZEN THIRTEEN returned to duty once more.
APPEARANCE
Citizen Thirteen perpetually exudes a readiness for battle, maintaining a demeanor that reflects self-assurance and a clear sense of purpose. His stoic expression and no-nonsense attitude contribute to a perception of him as somewhat uptight. With unkempt brown hair showcasing hints of grey and a five o’clock stubble that is rarely trimmed, he carries an appearance that mirrors his pragmatic approach to life.
Behind a black domino mask that conceals the crow's feet gathered at the corners of his dark blue eyes, the grizzled determination in his gaze remains unmistakable. Adorned in armor tinted in patriotic red, white, and blue, Thirteen strives to visually represent the justice that the American people deserve. A bold, shining white star adorns the chest of his armor, accentuating the overall patriotic motif. His torso is shielded by a form-fitting dark blue tunic crafted from a Kevlar/Dyneema weave. While a noticeable red leather glove typically graces his left hand, the right draws attention with its combat-focused metal appendage, designed for power rather than subtlety or grace. Tactical webbing on the thighs and midsection discreetly secures pistol magazines, while holsters on the belt accommodate two customized M1911s.
Thirteen's fighting style is grounded in practicality and tactics. In close combat, he adopts a brute force approach, delivering crushing and effective blows to swiftly incapacitate his opponents, adhering to a philosophy of maximizing efficiency even with enduring stamina. When it comes to firearms, Thirteen displays a preference for his dual-wielded 1911 handguns, leveraging his superior reflexes for extreme speed and precision. However, he remains versatile, not hesitating to employ carbines, rifles, or machine guns as the situation demands. The thrill of going full auto with the M60E3 is an opportunity he eagerly seizes.
Off-duty, Thirteen transitions to a more casual attire, often seen in a t-shirt and jeans. His aversion to formal wear is evident, and he actively avoids situations that would require a dapper or fancy appearance. Remaining true to his Texan roots, he exercises his 2nd Amendment rights in civilian life, always concealing an officer model 1911, typically carried in the appendix position.
Face and voice claim is Tom Hardy. Voice Audio Track: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uf1gDfA8eYBIzCllnlxeXQz27FUhT2nP/view courtesy of @willowgust
PERSONALITY
Thirteen adopts a minimal-nonsense, straight-man persona, particularly when interacting with younger heroes. His past experiences have cultivated a touch of cynicism, and he often finds himself irked by the exuberance of less mature heroes who seek enjoyment during patrols. This irritation intensifies as his age becomes more apparent, leading to humorous banter with the younger generation, characterized by a generation gap in lingo and perspectives. When partnered with more seasoned and professional heroes, especially those surpassing him in age and skill, Thirteen reveals a more laid-back and less uptight side, relieved from the perceived burden of babysitting inexperienced comrades. Regardless of the team, Thirteen remains steadfast in having his fellow heroes' backs when the chips are down.
Armed with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) certification from Texas, Thirteen possesses a deep understanding of the legal system. He strategically leverages this knowledge to his advantage, prioritizing adherence to proper legal procedures. Thirteen vehemently opposes the notion of perpetrators escaping justice due to subpar case work on his part, emphasizing the utmost importance of following legal protocols. His crime-fighting approach aligns with a modified Use of Force Continuum, resembling the methods employed by the PPD but tailored to accommodate his unique abilities.
Recognizing the benefits of a strong alliance with local law enforcement, Thirteen values the collaboration, especially in morally ambiguous situations. While publicly maintaining a by-the-book image, he is not averse to operating in the shadows when necessary. If legal constraints pose a threat to innocent lives, Thirteen is willing to engage in covert actions.
Off-duty, Thirteen is a private individual, adhering to a daily routine that includes physical training, both hand-to-hand and firearms training, and equipment maintenance between patrols. Despite his orderly home life, his roommate's constant attempts at apartment sabotage add a touch of humor to his otherwise structured existence. Though lacking a secret identity, Thirteen keeps his personal life discreet enough to avoid unnecessary attention. He enjoys occasional outings for beers with old Army buddies or fellow heroes he considers close enough to share a drink with.
POWERS & ABILITIES
SUPER SOLDIER ENHANCEMENTS: Thirteen's physical prowess has been drastically enhanced through a combination of bioengineered organ transplants, stem cell modifications, and cybernetics integrated into his right shoulder and spinal column.
- Superior Strength: Bench pressing over a ton and deadlifting over two tons, his blows possess the force to smash through concrete barriers and shatter bones.
- Enhanced Speed and Endurance: Recorded speeds of 36 MPH and the ability to maintain this pace for over an hour showcase Thirteen's enhanced speed and endurance. Recovery from intense physical activity takes mere minutes. Sleep deprivation tests revealed improved resilience, staying awake for extended periods without weariness. Although it's recommended to maintain at least two hours of sleep daily for peak combat awareness.
- Heightened Reflexes: Thirteen's agility allows him to effortlessly engage multiple opponents while efficiently wielding his signature 1911 pistols. His reflexes enable him to dodge projectiles traveling at speeds of 350-400 feet per second or slower, evading armed opponents long enough to eliminate the threat.
- Tough as Nails: Thirteen's body boasts superior toughness, from heightened bone density to accelerated blood coagulation, minimizing blood loss during combat. Swift recovery times include hours for minor wounds, a day for fractures, and less than a week for severe trauma. Gifted with an improved immune system, Thirteen is resilient against bacterial and viral infections, capable of expelling life-threatening toxins during heightened adrenaline moments.
SPECIAL FORCES/BLACK OPS: Thirteen's Special Forces background provides extensive knowledge of global weaponry, allowing him to disassemble, reassemble, and effectively utilize a wide array of weapons. Adaptability gained through Special Forces and Project Citizen enables survival in harsh environments and integration into foreign societies. Thirteen values both overt and covert operations, recognizing the significance of stealth and surprise.
CLOSE QUARTERS COMBATIVES: Decades of military service have refined Thirteen's hand-to-hand combat skills, making him an expert in various martial arts. His brutal and effective mixed martial arts style lacks unnecessary flair, focusing on practicality with strikes to vital areas including gut punches, groins, throats, knees, and chokeholds.
GUNSLINGER: A standout feature in Thirteen's skill set is his exceptional proficiency with firearms. From efficient precision with rifles to devastating power with shotguns and M60 machine guns, his prowess is unparalleled. However, Thirteen's true mastery shines with his Colt 1911 .45 ACP handguns, where his skills are described as glorious and artful.
EQUIPMENT
Colt 1911: Embodying America's handgun tradition since World War II, Thirteen's custom 1911 handguns remain chambered in the venerable .45 ACP, a testament to tradition. Tailored to his needs, these handguns feature Trijicon night sights, custom magwell, tactical rail with a Surefire light attachment, threaded barrels, and higher capacity magazines.
Fabrique Nationale SCAR: A versatile platform adaptable for close-quarters combat or a designated marksman role. Thirteen appreciates the flexibility this firearm offers, making it suitable for various situations.
M60E3/E4: The undisputed king of LMGs, Thirteen's favorite machine gun. A modified and updated version of the classic American firearm, he ensures there's always one in the trunk of his patrol vehicle, ready for action.
Cybernetic Arm: Thirteen's right arm, beyond being stronger and more durable than his already enhanced left arm, is equipped with a myriad of gadgets. Featuring an energy shield, tazer, lock picker, basic electronics hacking program, short-range single-use EMP device, and a biofoam injector for deep penetration wounds. The arm, made from alloy steel and impervium, is reinforced through Thirteen's shoulder and spinal column. It's designed to separate if repairs are needed or in extreme trauma situations to prevent damage to supporting cybernetics.
Patriotic Body Armor: Thirteen's torso is shielded by a combination of Dyneema and Kevlar, with thicker layers of Kevlar on the chest and back for enhanced protection. The sides and underarms incorporate Dyneema for increased flexibility. Spaulders(not used in newer costumes), knee pads, and boots are reinforced with an alloy steel, providing added durability.
Repulsor Boots: (Discontinued) Not just for protection, Thirteen's heavy armor boots are equipped with small repulsor engines in the heels. Combined with his enhanced strength, these boots enable him to achieve remarkable heights with minimal effort.
Utility Belt: Primarily designed for ammunition storage, the belt accommodates rows of magazines for his 1911s. It also houses a medkit with a biofoam injector, high-tensile steel handcuffs, multiple flexicuffs, and det cord for versatile applications in the field.
HISTORY
Early Life
Born and raised outside of Beaumont, Texas, James Rodgers emerged as the eldest child of James Ray and Mildred Rodgers. A strong familial bond developed, especially with his younger brother, Benjamin, whom he ardently protected during their shared childhood. The Rodgers family legacy boasted a deep connection to military service, with James's father having served in Vietnam, and his grandfather achieving the rank of Sergeant Major after dedicated service in WWII, the Korean War, and Vietnam.
The call to military service echoed through James's lineage, a sentiment he felt was ingrained in his very essence. In contrast, Benjamin's academic excellence set him apart, making him the target of bullies and occasionally eliciting a sense of disappointment from their father. However, James recognized his brother's exceptional potential, seeing in him the promise of achieving remarkable feats in life. Throughout their formative years, James assumed the role of his brother's protector, valuing their close relationship.
At the age of eighteen, driven by a sense of duty and familial tradition, James enlisted in the United States Army, embarking on a path that would shape his identity and define his commitment to service.
Military Career
In 1992, James Rodgers commenced his military journey by attending Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Benning, GA, with the aspiration of becoming an 11B Infantryman. Post AIT, he distinguished himself by excelling in Airborne and Air Assault schools, consistently topping his classes with an unwavering commitment to excellence.
James's initial deployment in 1993 to Bosnia showcased his heroism, earning him a Bronze Star with Valor for his courageous actions. Following his return to the United States, he seized the opportunity to attend Ranger School, graduating at the forefront of his class yet again. His dedication was further exemplified during his second combat deployment to Haiti in 1994, where he served as a Ranger in the 75th Ranger Regiment. Wounded during a skirmish, James received the Purple Heart.
Post-Haiti, he transitioned to Special Forces training, culminating in the attainment of his Green Beret by the end of 1996, officially designated as an 18B Weapons Sergeant. Over the next nine years, James Rodgers served with distinction in the 10th Special Forces Group based at Fort Carson, Colorado. His combat operations spanned various regions, including Albania, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Serbia. His exceptional service garnered a second Bronze Star with Valor, a Silver Star with Valor, and the prestigious Distinguished Service Cross.
In 2005, tragedy struck as James lost his arm in combat due to an IED blast. Evacuated to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington D.C., he faced an uncertain military future. However, his relentless determination manifested through multiple waiver submissions, ultimately catching the attention of Project Citizen recruiters. This unwavering commitment led to his inclusion in the secretive program.
Records of James Rodgers' military service between 2006 and 2015 remain sealed, shrouded in secrecy.
Project Citizen: The Shadow Super Soldiers
Initiated by the United States government, Project Citizen emerged as part of a broader effort to counter the increasing influence of meta-humans in the military. Despite early setbacks marked by a high failure rate, the program persevered by transitioning into black ops, where it authorized the recruitment of disabled service members displaying a fervent desire to return to active duty. Nearly a hundred candidates were selected, but only three dozen successfully completed the transformation into a "Citizen."
Phases of Transformation:
1. Compatibility Testing (Phase One): Candidates underwent rigorous physical and mental health assessments to ensure compatibility with the program's goals. After signing consent and nondisclosure agreements, they proceeded to the next phase.
2. Gene Therapy (Phase Two): The most critical stage, spanning over a year, involved extensive gene therapy to enhance bone density, muscle mass, and healing capacity. Red blood cell oxygen-carrying capabilities were increased to bolster combat effectiveness and malleability for subsequent phases.
3. Bioaugmentation (Phase Three): Candidates received bioengineered organs superior to their natural counterparts, starting with the heart and progressing through lungs, liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands. The enhanced organs provided increased resilience, toxin filtration, and controlled sensitivity to medical drugs.
4. Cybernetic Reinforcement (Phase Four): Following successful organ transplants, cybernetic reinforcements were grafted onto the skeletal structure, fused with the nervous system and spinal column. Top-of-the-line cybernetic appendages were provided to candidates with previous amputations, calibrated for proper balance.
The Birth of Citizens:
The individuals who successfully navigated these phases were officially designated as 'Citizens.' Each Citizen experienced unique outcomes from the bio and cybernetic augmentations, resulting in massive improvements to strength, speed, and endurance. Enhanced recovery times from injuries, improved immune systems, and toxin purging capabilities through adrenaline infusion fortified their combat prowess. Citizens demonstrated near-precognitive reaction times, exhibiting unparalleled precision with firearms and swift target engagement.
Operational Decade:
Project Citizen operated discreetly for over a decade, executing espionage, sabotage, assassinations, rescue operations, intelligence raids, and acquiring persons of interest. Collaborating closely with the CIA, the Citizens' endeavors remained shrouded in secrecy. Their dedication was thankless, and their contributions were destined to remain unrecognized, even in death.
Retirement(2015):
As new and improved super soldier programs emerged, Project Citizen was retired in 2015. The surviving members were granted proper military retirement benefits and reintegrated into civilian life. Their clandestine legacy, marked by sacrifice and service, would forever remain concealed from public acknowledgment.
Returning Home
Separation from the military can be a difficult experience for any veteran, and the transition to civilian life for James was no exception. He returned to his home in Beaumont, Texas, and moved into his brother’s home, who was now a lawyer and married with two kids. For a while James and his brother struggled to regain the camaraderie they once had growing up. The vastly different life experiences between the brothers created awkward silences and forced conversations regularly. It wasn’t until they decided to split a six pack of Shiner Bock while James’s brother worked on a case-file for his law firm that the two realized they shared a common ground - fighting for a just cause.
James pursued a degree in Criminal Justice, as well as obtaining a LEO certification through the state of Texas. He then began working as a private investigator and security manager for his brother’s law firm. Nearly a year passed, and things were smoothing out quite well for James.
Towards the end of 2016, his brother took on a high profile case against a very powerful drug cartel. The case should have been a done deal, but the justice system buckled as prosecutors and key witnesses were bribed and threatened. By the end of it, the cartel members on trial walked free. His brother was killed a week after the verdict, in what looked like an armed robbery gone wrong.
James began his own investigation into the cartel, following their routines around the clock and figuring out where to hit them back. But before he could act out a plan for vengeance, his sister-in-law pled for James to respect his brother’s legacy and respect the legal process. James then turned over all of his findings to the authorities, who were able to use this information to move in on the cartel once again.
While never officially receiving any credit for the dismantling of this cartel, his actions would not go unnoticed. Shortly after these events, Agent Michael Wilson of GUIDE reached out to James.
Paragon City
James has never cared for the whole super hero gimmick, but super heroes were undeniably a major part of society, and an effective form of law enforcement. They often managed to get stuff done that the police could not, for one reason or another. James desired the freedom to take down criminals independently, but also utilizing the legal system to do so.
The newly formed government agency known as GUIDE used the resources provided by the FBSA to seek out and sponsor well-to-do heroes that would promote a positive image of the superhero community in the public eye. Given James’ abilities, military service record, and education in criminal justice, he was a perfect candidate for GUIDE. Agent Michael Wilson approached James, offering to assist in getting properly registered and funded.
James initially resisted the idea of a costume and monicker, but Agent Wilson convinced him that it was a necessary part of the process. If he had to wear a colorful costume, it would be in the colors of the country he’d served his entire life, that three generations of his family had served. And there was only one name he would be willing to use and not feel ridiculous maintaining in public. Thus, Citizen Thirteen was reborn in Paragon City.
AFFILIATES
Crowning Glory: A fellow Texan and good friend, Addison King saved James three different times on their very first patrol together. She chalked it up to him just trying to get her attention, which was partly true. They dated for a time, but have since moved on due to wanting to focus more on professional interests. They have remained good friends however.
Areus: The best, coolest, nicest guy Thirteen knows, and a great friend. Areus has been Thirteen’s point man for over a year now, as his powers allow him to handle the toughest of opponents in a direct assault. His boy-scout tendencies help remind Thirteen that it pays to be nice sometimes.
Ultrastar: This young hero has shown herself to be plenty mature enough to hang with the crew. Extremely powerful and damn near invincible, Ultrastar is a reliable hero that anyone would be lucky to have in their corner. Thirteen considers himself lucky to have worked with her.
Rocket Robyn: Rocket Robyn is a determined young hero, using her inherited financial wealth to fund her gadgetry and combat training to become a protector of the city. Propelling herself into combat with her signature rocket boots and a modified compound bow and arrow weapon system, RR is is a force to be reckoned with. Thirteen had the privilege of personally training her in hand to hand combat, and she even gave up Capri-Sun’s to show her dedication to his training regiment!
Agent Michael Wilson: An agent of the Federal government and proponent of the meta hero community, Agent Wilson proudly works for GUIDE as he supports heroes and heroines alike with government funding.
Elycion: A former pilot in the Airforce and a brilliant cybernetics engineer, James and Alex first met on Project Citizen in 2005. Alex had been paralyzed after his Osprey was downed during the initial Rikti invasion, and was wheelchair bound for over a decade before his cybernetics research for Project Citizen fully paid off.
Gravatar: Possibly one of the most powerful heroes Thirteen has ever come to know. When he first met Gravatar he had a moment of déjà vu, but couldn’t figure out why. Turns out, Gravatar worked closely with alternate universe versions of Citizen Thirteen and Hu’Szversvn!
All-Star: Another Patriotic hero type Thirteen greatly respects in the field. Worthy of the colors she wears, and a great ally(yes that's a name pun)!
Global Defense Force Thirteen wouldn’t admit it, but he considers all of the GDF to be like an extended family. Sure, some of them are annoying to him. But hey, that’s family for ya! Citizen Thirteen has developed a close enough friendship with a few of them to the point that he's even comfortable with openly say nice things about them in public(if he had to)! Most notably Nitroburst, Gazella Mirage, Farside, Tlatelolco, Lady Warspite, Dawnkeeper, and of course Starforge himself.
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| Founder Starforge | ||
| Team Leaders Arsenal • Farside | ||
| Global Defenders Afterglow • Antivenom • Fort • Homefront • Shadeknight • Shadowbat • Silver Twilight • Spinosaurus Wrecks | ||
| Defenders Airbound • Arvo • Botanica • Bronze Belfry • Cloudkeeper • Cymone • Dr. Unknown • Dragonstrike • Ever Star • Farwalker • Gloombug • Graystar • Lightstreamer • Lock-Down • Mistmourne • Moonbeam • Mr. Blank Nightborn • Pinnacle • Power Boy • Psionic • Psychic Fox • Sgt. Starburst • Silversaint • Sir Chozrik • Soleos • Star Storm • Steel Shield • Stellar Ascendant • Stellarex • Wind-Rider • WindWarrior | ||
| Members Agemo the Messenger • All Muscle • Aria Sound • Blue Icon • Captain Poseidon • Exergy • Expert • Godspark • Gridiron Goliath • Mass Impact Moonlight Medallion • Ms. Sovereign • Pulson • Sir Winter • Universal Knight • Will o' the Wisps • Wombattle | ||
| Reserve Members Bolty • Chimera Girl • Lumix • Nebuleia • Ultrastar | ||
ARTWORK
Art by Phrog
Art by Matt Orders
Sample art of Thirteen by Kenpudiosaki
Hugs and Thirteen by Kenpudiosaki
Art by Kenpudiosaki
Art by Seacar
Unfinished WiP by KaRolding
Comedian homage by Chocochino
Art by Eryck Webb
Art by Astrubal
