Tournament - Mister Sinister vs. Anton Sevarius

[JohnnyChany]

Rufus Shinra, president of the Shinra Electric Power Company and all its subsidiaries, including but not limited to a military, a space program, and a governing body, sat impatiently at his desk awaiting the final copy of a Help Wanted posting from his secretary.  Within moments, she came rushing in.

“It’s done and ready for your approval, sir,” she announced. 

She placed the paper on Rufus’s desk, and he read it over.

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Shinra Electric Power Company, a global leader in energy and technology, is seeking a highly qualified individual to fill the crucial role of Director of Science, Research and Development. This dynamic position offers the opportunity to lead our innovative team of scientists and engineers in pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and technological advancement.

Prerequisites:

Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Genetics, Biotechnology, Engineering)
Minimum of 10 years of experience in research and development, with a proven track record of successful projects and leadership.
Expertise in genetic engineering, biotechnology, and advanced materials science.
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with internal partners.

Preferred Experience:

Previous experience in a leadership role within a research and development organization or scientific institution.
Familiarity with military or government contracts and regulations.
Experience with large-scale project management and budget oversight.
Knowledge of emerging technologies and trends in the energy and technology sectors.

Expectations:

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of research and development within the company, including the prestigious Jenova Project and SOLDIER program.

This includes:

Ensuring the successful execution of the Jenova Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at harnessing the power of an ancient extraterrestrial entity for the betterment of humanity.
Managing the SOLDIER program, which seeks to enhance human abilities through genetic modification and advanced training techniques.
Collaborating with the Director of Public Safety and the Director of Weapons Development to advance national security objectives. Including the creation and controlled deployment of monsters to assist efforts to maintain population control in the bustling city of Midgar and beyond.

Join us at Shinra Electric Power Company and be a part of shaping the future of energy, technology, and society.
Interested candidates should submit their resumes and cover letters to [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming a visionary leader to our team.

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“Looks good,” stated Rufus.

“If I may be so bold,” replied his secretary. “Are you sure you want an external candidate for such an important position in the company? We had always promoted from within before.”

Rufus stood from his chair. “And look where that got us. After his disappearance, my father replaced Professor Gast with his pupil, Professor Hojo. Hojo proceeded to use Shinra’s vast resources for his own ambitions and goals and ended up a liability to the company. I dare not repeat my father’s mistakes in replacing him. We would also run the risk of promoting a Hojo loyalist to the position.”

His secretary nodded. “I guess it doesn’t hurt to see what’s out there. I will get this sent out right away.”

A few weeks later after sifting through more candidates than he had expected, Rufus had narrowed down his choice to two candidates. He wanted someone to bounce thoughts and concerns off of, as well as someone who could find answers for him, so he requested the presence of his most trusted confidant, the leader of the Turks, Tseng.  The long haired, sharply dressed, Tseng, soon arrived in the President’s office unsure of the reason why.

“You needed to see me, sir,” said Tseng.

“Yes, have a seat. I want your help in deciding on Hojo’s replacement. I’m down to two candidates.”

“Are you certain that I am the person most qualified for this task? Shouldn’t you be having this conversation with HR?”

Rufus let out a soft chuckle. “She currently has her hands full in her third meeting with Directors Scarlet and Heidegger. It appears that Scarlet insists on adding more and more of Heidegger’s soldiers to her unit of human footrests. Heidegger is not happy.”

“I would agree with Director Heidegger that more of our soldiers shouldn’t be subjugated to such humiliation,” stated Tseng.

“That’s not the problem. The problem is the number of soldiers that continue to volunteer.” 

Tseng shook his head in disappointment and then took his seat across from Rufus. “What do we have here?”

Rufus slid across the table the resume for the first of the two applicants he was considering.

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Nathaniel Essex 
aka Mr. Sinister
[email protected]
 

Objective:

Seeking the top position within the Science, Research, and Development Division of the Shinra Electric Power Company, where my expertise in genetics, biotechnology, and advanced scientific research can be leveraged to drive innovation and contribute to the company's growth.
 

About Me:

I am a highly skilled geneticist and biochemist with over a century of experience in experimental research, genetic manipulation, and evolutionary biology. Proven track record of pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and achieving groundbreaking discoveries. Exceptional leader with a talent for assembling and managing interdisciplinary teams to accomplish complex research objectives.

 

Education:

Doctorate in Genetics and Biochemistry, University of Oxford

 

Professional Experience:

Sinister Labs, Founder and CEO

Founded and led Sinister Labs, a cutting-edge research facility dedicated to exploring the frontiers of genetic engineering and evolutionary biology.

Pioneered revolutionary techniques in genetic manipulation, resulting in the creation of enhanced superhumans and novel life forms.

Developed advanced biotechnologies for regenerative medicine and anti-aging therapies.

Conducted extensive experiments on mutant genetics, contributing to the understanding of mutant powers and their potential applications.

Formed alliances with powerful mutants, including Apocalypse, to further my scientific goals and advance the cause of mutant supremacy.

Ravencroft Institute for the Criminally Insane, Head of Genetic Research

Served as the Head of Genetic Research at Ravencroft Institute, overseeing experiments on the intersection of genetics and criminal behavior.

Conducted research on the genetic predispositions of criminality and the potential for genetic interventions to rehabilitate or modify criminal behavior.
 

Accomplishments:

Successfully cloned Jean Grey and manipulated her genetic code to create Madelyne Pryor, a clone with unique abilities.

Engineered the creation of the Marauders, a team of genetically enhanced mutants, to serve as my enforcers and carry out my experiments.

Conducted groundbreaking research on the Legacy Virus, a deadly mutant-specific disease, leading to the development of a cure.

Contributed to the development of the mutant cure, a controversial treatment that suppresses mutant abilities, as part of my efforts to control the mutant population.

References: 

En Sabah Nur (Apocalypse)

Egypt

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“That is quite the CV,” admitted Tseng.

“It most certainly is. His accomplishments compare favorably to anything that Hojo accomplished on his own.”

“I am surprised he felt the need to add his alias, and that his alias is Mr. Sinister, that is definitely a choice.”

Rufus agreed. “I have known a fair share of scientific geniuses, and they are all eccentric to some degree, but that caught my eye as well.”

“His references list an En Sabah Nur, but the contact information is non-existent,” Tseng observed.

“This is where your team comes in. I want you to send a couple of the Turks to Egypt to see what they can get from this Apocalypse, figure,” Rufus instructed.

Tseng nodded and then asked, “Who is the other candidate?” 

Rufus slid across the table the second resume.

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Anton Sevarius ([email protected])

GOAL - Seeking the position of Head Scientist within the esteemed Science, Research, and Development Division of the Shinra Electric Power Company, where my genius in genetic engineering, biotechnology, and cutting-edge research can contribute to the company's advancement and innovation.

PERSONAL SUMMARY - A dedicated and visionary scientist with extensive experience in genetic engineering, biochemistry, and experimental research. Skilled in leading interdisciplinary teams and leveraging technology to drive scientific breakthroughs. Proven track record of innovation and success in pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.

SCIENTIFIC ACHIEVEMENTS:

-     Engineered the creation of genetically enhanced beings known as Mutates, capable of performing specialized tasks and serving as loyal operatives. 
-    Designed and implemented advanced cybernetic enhancements for individuals seeking to augment their physical capabilities.
-    Conducted groundbreaking research on the manipulation of DNA to cure genetic diseases and extend lifespan.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
CYBERBIOTICS, SCIENCE DIRECTOR
-    Spearheaded numerous groundbreaking projects, including the development of advanced cybernetic enhancements and genetic modifications.
-    Managed a team of top-tier scientists and engineers to drive innovation and bring cutting-edge technologies to market.
XANATOS ENTERPRISES, CHIEF SCIENTIST
-    Served as Chief Scientist at Xanatos Enterprises, overseeing research and development initiatives in biotechnology and advanced materials.
-    Led the development of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence systems, with applications in both civilian and military sectors.
-    Collaborated with international partners to expand research capabilities and explore new avenues of scientific inquiry including the study of the Lochness Monster.
NIGHTSTONE UNLIMITED, DIRECTOR OF BIOENGENEERING 
-    Directed bioengineering research at Nightstone Unlimited, focusing on the development of bio-organic interfaces and enhanced human performance.
-    Developed novel gene therapies and regenerative medicine technologies, with potential applications in healthcare and longevity.

EDUCATION:
-    Ph.D. in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Columbia University
 

REFERENCES:
Halcyon Renard, CEO, Cyberbiotics
David Xanatos, CEO, Xanatos Enterprises
Alexander Thailog, Co-founder, Nightstone Unlimited
Dominique Destine, Co-founder, Nightstone Unlimited

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“Also quite impressive, I can see why these two would be your finalists,” said Tseng. “Anton’s references aren’t as vague as Nathaniel’s but there is still a lack of contact information. I assume you would like the Turks to look into these people as well.”

“Discover all there is to know about both Anton and Nathaniel starting from these reference points and report back to me. I will interview both men in the interim,” Rufus declared.

“Right away, sir.”

Tseng took his leave from Rufus Shinra and immediately made travel arrangements for himself and the other Turks. While he and Elena traveled to Manhattan, Rude and Reno flew over to Egypt. As they dug into the history of both candidates, Rufus interviewed both men.

The Shinra President found himself both appalled and intrigued by Nathaniel’s garish costume and flowing cape. Sinister did not have the appearance of a corporate executive, or even a traditional scientist for that matter, but he clearly knew his stuff. He had a genuine enthusiasm about digging into Jenova cells and a vast appreciation for the lax ethical oversight that would await him at Shinra. Anton Sevarius was much more familiar to Rufus. The mad scientist reminded Rufus of many of the traits that he both admired and hated in Hojo. Sevarius also made a compelling case on how he may be able to stop the cellular degradation of SOLDIERs by infusing some gargoyle DNA. At the conclusion of the interviews, Rufus had yet to make up his mind and awaited the return of Tseng.

Several days later Tseng returned and briefed the President on what his crew had found.

“It took a while for Reno and Rude to track down En Sabah Nur, but when they finally did they were told that he does not partake in trivial conversations with genetic inferiors. So there wasn’t much to gain there,” Tseng informed. “However, there was a lot of information to be gained on his history with a mutant hero team named the X-Men. They have clashed numerous times and by the sounds of it that is only going to continue.  Putting him on the Board of Directors may leave Shinra in a vulnerable position to be put in the X-Men’s crosshairs.”

“How much of a threat would they pose?”

“From the information that we were able to glean, they could potentially be a bigger thorn in Shinra’s side than even Cloud and his friends.”

“Hmmm. What about Anton Sevarius? What were you able to dig up on him?”

“Disappointingly, Elena and I discovered some failures he had in his cloning experiments. Specifically, their short lifespans. On the other hand, although I don’t think any of them like him as a person, all of his former employers say he is a team player and will always follow the company objectives,” Tseng explained.

“So, he IS a more reliable version of Professor Hojo. Good to know. After all that you and the Turks discovered, what conclusion have you made?”

“From what my team and I have gathered, they have many similarities, yet it would appear that Nathaniel Essex has the  dge in long term scientific development potential. His cloning experiment was a success, Anton’s was not. But ‘Mr. Sinister’ also has the edge in potential risk to Shinra, both in personal interests and longstanding grudges. Anton Sevarius has more experience both in a corporate environment and with cybernetics. However, with Scarlet in charge of Weapons Development, would those skills even be necessary? I am content that this final choice isn’t in my hands. What are you going to do, sir?” Tseng wondered.
 

[Callisto]

Learn More About
Mister Sinister
Read more about Mister Sinister at Wikipedia
Official Site: Marvel Entertainment Links: Wikipedia Marvel.com Marvel Database

Anton Sevarius
Read more about Anton Sevarius at Wikipedia
Official Site: Disney Links: Wikipedia GargWiki Grimorum, the Gargoyles Wiki

[Twogunkid]

A fellow Gargoyles enjoyer. I debated Sevarius vs Zola for mine.

[JohnnyChany]

On 6/13/2024 at 7:42 PM, Twogunkid said:

A fellow Gargoyles enjoyer. I debated Sevarius vs Zola for mine.

Gargoyles for the win.  Always a great collection of characters to pick from.

[DSkillz]

As I mentioned in Twogunkid's match, there are apparently a couple of Gargoyles-related entries in this round.  

Very good entry, Johnny. Very nice touches with the detailed resumes for both Sinister and Sevarius, as well as Shinra's considerations of and researching both men. Frankly, though, I'm kinda surprised Rude and Reno encroached upon Apocalypse's domain and actually came back in one piece. 

As for who Shinra goes for? Gotta think on it a bit. Sinister is definitely more experienced and accomplished, but Rufus is absolutely right in assuming there would a good chance that Essex would screw him over and risk attracting powerful enemies to Shinra's doorstep. Sevarius, on the other hand, while having a less impressive scientific resume, would be more loyal. 

[Pizza Guy]

If I was running an evil organization I’d value loyalty above all. So I’d pick Sevarius as Sinister is a backstabbing waiting to happen.

[Callisto]

Match Final Results

Member Ratings:
4.80 - Boratz
4.80 - DSkillz
4.50 - Pizza Guy

FPA Calculation:
3 Total Votes cast
14.10 Total Combined Score
14.10 / 3 = 4.70 Final Rating on the match

MATCH SCORE
Mister Sinister: 1
Anton Sevarius: 1

[DSkillz]

Heh, didn't vote on this one, but I was starting to lean toward Sevarius myself for his potential loyalty. 

[Twogunkid]

A tie, I voted Sevarius.

 

A valiant competition. You guys made me work.