AN/could not wait so here is the second chapter
Boot 1-2
My plans had been foiled, dashed, completely and utterly ruined. One may ask how? And that was quite simple. It was because of the simple factoid that I was a lefty. That having never bothered gaining the dexterity required to write, never mind drawing with my right hand. I was failing to even draw the most simple of design plans. That and the really great cocktail of drugs I was on left me all fuzzy in the head at the best of times. So even when I wanted to get started on one of the many designs I had in my head. I was too doped up to bother. Or frustrated with the chicken scratch my right hand produced.
I was like this for the past four days. When I came up with the most splendid of ideas. Partially due to the fact they left me with no other choice since I could not make any progress externally. I turned my efforts inwards.
I had never bought that meditation stuff chalking it up to being something I would never have the time for. But at this point, I had nothing left to lose. I knew meditation was about finding a state of peace and relaxation. To help one focus the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity. My goal was to control my power this time. So I focused on my breathing. In and out I breathed. And with time, my heart rate slowed. And the world fell away.
I fell into the wellspring of my power. It was vast, still growing. This time I was the one at the wheel. But for now, I'll take things slow.
(Connecting to archive…)
It was amazing. Data flowed through my mind at unimaginable speeds. I spent a while just basking in the flow of my power. Before I narrowed it down to just what I wanted. To fix my arm.
(Beginning partial restoration from astral back up…)
My power surged.
By the time I opened my eyes, it was already dark outside. They hooked me back up to monitoring machines once more. I was going to be in trouble, wasn't I.
It only confirmed my suspicions when a harried looking nurse burst into the room followed by Armsmaster, Miss Militia, and My CPS agent Barbra "call me Bobbi" Morse.
"Ah, well, you're awake." nurse Temple said, whose name I only knew by virtue of the handy name tag that read Claire Temple nurse practitioner. "I think I can leave you in excellent hands while I inform your attending doctors." she looked to Armsmaster. Who I could swear was trying to light me on fire with his glare alone. He gave her a single stiff nod.
'Wait nooo…' I thought as she quickly left me to my fate. Blast and damn.
I looked between the various scowling adults currently in the room. Debating on just who would open talks.
"So would you like to explain what you thought you were doing?" apparently it was Miss Militia who asked. Thank god, because if it was Armsmaster. Just based on his glare. If his power were heat rays, then I would already be a smoldering pile of ash.
Still using my right hand, I wrote, 'fixing my arm…'
It took them a moment to process that a moment I used to demonstrate my power. 'See,' I quickly wrote. Before setting down the board and with a sliver of my power, I access one of the three inherent functions of my power I could use without a device… decomposition.
I swiped my index finger over the cast they had recently put on my arm. And with it I dissolved the cast. It dissolved into a fine mist of its base elements and ions. Then evaporated into steam. Leaving behind smooth unblemished skin…
Contrary to the praise I should have received. They only met me with looks of shock and disapproval. I had even waved my newly restored, not healed arm around for proof. There was a difference, after all.
Armsmaster scowled, even as he took my arm in hand, pulling out a device from a compartment on his armor. Running the device over my forearm. He began in a lecturing tone, "Honestly, do you know how reckless, how irresponsible, how stupid. This stunt of yours was. Nevermind the fact that we've had to monitor you for the past four days since you were found unresponsive. On the fourteenth!"
'Wait, what?!' I urgently wrote. Waving the board for extra emphasis. I had been out for nearly a week. The hell power! That meant I lost four god damned days of my prep time. I knew I wouldn't be ready for Canberra in about thirty days, never mind twenty-four. I had hoped to have restored myself by now, not lost all this time.
My case worker bless her soul, sat next to me. Clearly seeing the shock and horror on my face for losing that much time. "Look… Hun, we're all just worried about you. What you did was foolish. What if something went wrong?" she soothed, taking my free hand in hers. "It's why we recommend power testing. What would have happened if you could not control your power? What would happen if your healing went out of control?"
I could only meekly nod. They were at least half right. slipping my hand from hers I wrote, "Sorry, you're right I should have let someone know."
'But you're not quite right about how I fixed my arm. It's not healing. It's recreation, it's as if I had never broken my arm.' I corrected her. This part of how my power worked, I was sure of. I knew how it worked all too intimately.
"She is correct on that part," Armsmaster sighed, putting away his scanning device. "The scans I took of her arm show no breaks. As if they were never there."
"However, young lady, you are going to be going to the rig for power testing as soon as possible." he stated in his stern no nonsense tone. "until then, no powers!" He ordered, he was right. And I felt thoroughly chastised for my actions.
"We all make mistakes. It's best you learn from this and move on." Miss Militia said. "Now it's late, so why don't you get some sleep."
Now that she mentioned it, I felt sleepy. I blamed it on the morphine. Ah, what a wonderful drug. I would have yawned if I could. I waved my goodbyes to the heroes and Bobbi as they left. Quickly falling asleep as soon as they turned the lights off.
]|[
Emily Piggot sat at the head of the long table that held the upper members of the protectorate and PRT respectively within one of the PRT's high security meeting rooms. From the Protectorate there was Armsmaster, his second Miss Militia, Dauntless, and finally Assault and Battery. And from the PRT aside from Emily in her role as director of the east north-east division, there was her chief of staff and second-in-command Alfred Renick, PRT ENE head psychologist Jessica Yamada, Watchdog chief liaison officer Phil Coulson. Dragon was there in the digital form of her avatar, acting in her role as the Guild representative.
That they were using this room meant as a matter of course nothing said here would be transcribed into official record,in any shape or form. Doing so was punishable to the highest extent of the law.
A screen on the far wall lit up, bringing in the last member of this meeting Chief Director Rebeca Costa-Brown. "So Armsmaster would you like to tell us all why you called for this meeting?" she asked.
"Yes, mam." Armsmaster stood retrieving what was obviously a tinker tech thumb drive from his armor. Inserting it into the secure terminal just behind him. With just a few keystrokes, he pulled up several files. "I called this meeting because of a recent case that came into our hands. Or rather a cold case that we stumbled into." both of the case files appeared on the holographic screens before them.
"Please elaborate Armsmaster." director Piggot ordered.
"Our working theory after the victim in our investigation one Alexandra Miles, full name Alexandra Trisha Ellen Miles who for official record regarding the current ongoing case outside of this room shall be known as Pythia."
He did not need to explain the details of her assault; everyone in this room already knew the particular details of that part of her case. And so he brought up the detailed dossier on her.
It read.
Alexandra Trisha Ellen Miles alias Pythia
Age: 11 date of birth: 07/10/ 1998 social: 134-98-5562
Place of birth: Lakeside township Ohio, Zip code: 43440
Hospital or institution: Saint Marys Presbyterian
Mother: Winry Christina Grace Elric Miles
Status: deceased
Aged: 26 birthplace: Resembool, Amestris, Germany
Father: Ricard Miles
Status: Deceased
Aged: 29
Birthplace: Barad, Ishval, syria
Maternal Grandparents: Edward Elric, Winry Rockbell Elric
Status: Deceased
Paternal Grandparents: Malcolm Miles Mira Lowe Miles
Status: Deceased
Other known relatives: Alphonse Elric, Mei Chang-Elric, Van Hohenheim, Trisha Elric, Logue Lowe, Rio Lowe
Status: Deceased
The report told a grimm tale of tragedy and death.
"Hey Wait, I know that name." Miss. Militia said pointing to the name of her father. "he is the grandson of Logue Lowe. A religious leader in the region. At least until Behemoth destroyed Barad and the oil fields in the surrounding area. Since then, they have held his estate in trust for an heir. "
"I also remember the name Elric." The deputy Director admitted. "There old money, really old and really rich, a part of what remains of german nobility. In fact, the paternal side of her family owned and still owns a majority of land in the state of Amestris. But the last I heard was that the Elric estate was being handled by an executor until they could find a proper heir."
"Quick question, just how did you know all that?" Assault could not help but ask.
Alfred snorted in amusement, "I figured once I retired it would be a nice place to live. It's on my list, you know, just sit back and spend my days on a farm. Also, I'm PRT and there is no way I will not do research."
"Seriously?"
The deputy director shrugged in amusement, "what we all can't keep doing this forever."
"That brings us to the point of why this meeting was called." Armsmaster said, "it was after her emergency admission once she was out of immediate danger. That according to protocol, I set about ascertaining her identity. The hair, and blood samples taken had alerted us to an unsolved cold case. When we ran them through the database."
"Not just any case, but the Lakeside township massacre. Committed by members of the Slaughterhouse Nine in 2005. Of the 600 people in the community, the only known survivors of the killings were 23 others and Bonesaw Aka Riley Grace Davis of the S9. Who is believed to have been coerced into joining them. Everyone else was believed dead or missing. Among the confirmed dead were her parents Ricard and Winry Miles. We believed it that Alexandra was among those slain. As it is not unusual, for no remains to be found when dealing with the S9. We now know that this is clearly not the case."
"So the question is what is a girl who is basically a princess in all but name believed to be dead. Doing alive and well if not malnourished, here in Brockton Bay? when probably she should have not even survived the massacre." the chief director wondered aloud.
"I base my guess on her powers. She did not survive. But did not stay dead ether. Something that would amuse Jack to no end. At least for a while. From there I suspect they sold her off to a cape or group that had an interest in her power." Dragon proposed, "there are a lot of shady individuals out there. From what I observed from Armsmaster's helmet cam. I am willing to bet her power was overtaxed to the absolute limit. Likely in a successful escape attempt."
"It is why I have arranged for her to undergo power testing tomorrow at noon. After her last attempt to experiment with her power. I felt it best to test her limits under monitored conditions on the Rig." Arms master added.
The Chief director hummed, "hmm, yes, be sure to keep me informed." the Chief director turned her attention to Emily. "And Emily, I will direct the Great Lakes Division to handover any case files and notes. You have my blessing to take jurisdiction on this case." "Yes, Ma'am." Emily replied.
"Well, that went about as well as one could expect. WEDGDG will coordinate once we confer with our thinkers on how her thinker power could be utilized." Phil said, standing up to shake hands with Renick. "Keep up the excellent work."
"As far as things will go with my department, I think setting up an appointment for a session as soon as possible is a must." Jessica said, looking through her planner. "I have a slot free at noon on Saturday. Is that ok?" she asked.
"Yes, of course we will make the arrangements." Emily nodded. "Now if you will excuse me. I have several other appointments." she sighed with a wry grin. "The work of a director is never done after all." letting an unusual bit of humor slip out.
]|[
It was the next day and as I stared at my 'breakfast' I longed to use my power to heal my jaw at the very least. I was completely done with pureed oatmeal and a smoothie for my morning meal. Still, it was the most palatable of all my mourning options.
At the very least I had my left arm back, so I was free to plan and draw diagrams to my heart's content while I drank my 'breakfast'.
Soon after I finished, there was a knock at the door. And Glory Girl peaked her head in. "Hey stranger, you decent?" She asked/ teased.
I snorted in amusement and rolled my eyes at her, waving her in.
She entered, however she was not alone trailing behind her was her sister Panacea. A girl with mousy brown hair and freckles dotting the brow of her nose. She looked rather indifferent, really.
She had brought Amy Dallon, one of the most scary people in all of Worm. And one of my absolute favorite people in all of Worm, aside from Bonesaw and the Undersiders.
'So what's up GG?' I wrote.
"First of all, when out of costume, you can call me Vicky. K?" she said. "And this is my sis Amy." she introduced her to me.
I nodded, "I am Alexandra please call me Alex." I wrote my introduction.
"And we're here because we were asked to be there for your power testing. And I figured why not join you on the way over?" Vicky explained.
I nodded, giving them both the biggest grin I could with my jaw the way it was.
'so when are we heading out?' I quickly scribbled, I was all ready to go after all. All I had was my notebook and the scrubs the hospital had given me.
It was then Vicky noticed I was writing with my left hand. "Hey, who fixed your hand?" she asked.
It was a valid question to ask. Considering the last time she saw me. Comparing me to roadkill would have not been an over exaggeration.
I flushed with embarrassment as I meekly wrote, 'I did, yesterday.'
And there it was, the flash of realization in her eyes. "That's why we could not see you for the last few days."
I nodded once more, my face aflame. 'Got in a bit of trouble for it too.' I quickly wrote.
"Vicky, we need to go soon." Amy ever so helpfully reminded the two of us.
Nodding, I hopped out of the bed, disconnected from my I.V. bag, and slipped on a pair of crocks that had been donated to me.
That was when Vicky stopped me, "what are you doing?" she asked. "You can't go out like that."
I rolled my eyes. What other choice did I have?
She snorted in amusement, "if you thought I would let you go out in scrubs then you're really dense."
It was only then that I noticed the rather large backpack Vicky had slung over one arm. "Here," she offered, "they might just be hand-me-downs and old clothes, but I think something in there would fit you."
I took the bag and headed into the bathroom to change. Opening up the bag, I noted that most of these clothes were certainly Vicky's style. Just like what she wore today.
With her immaculately styled hair that she wore in loose locks down to her upper back. She complimented it with a white cashmere turtle-neck sweater and an orange quilted winter vest. And blue skinny jeans that showed off her curves. And finally, a pair of stylish shin length black winter boots that had zippers on the side.
Compared to her sister, who wore a black hoodie and parka. With a pair of cargo jeans and sneakers. She looked absolutely gorgeous. And the simple answer to how I knew this was that I may have cheated and used my powers to look.
Before I got dressed, I took the time to look at myself in the mirror for the first time since I got here. Despite my bruises, my black eye, my myriad of stitches, I could comfortably say without a doubt that once I got older, I would definitely be a looker. I shuddered, I would need to beat the boys off with a stick. With my alluring golden eyes and blonde hair, it was all but a certainty. Topping it off with my dusky skin tone that could easily be mistaken for a tan. Yes, without question I was a pretty girl.
I let out a sigh of defeat. For now, all I could do was accept this and move on. This would definitely be something to unpack with a therapist. Just later, yeah, definitely later.
Of the clothes in the bag, I had chosen a thick yellow turtleneck sweater. Over which I wore a pair of just slightly too big black denim overalls and an oversized hoodie that I could zip up, it also had a damned cool eastern dragon decal on the back. That certainly had nothing to do with why I picked it, no Sir. And while they were just slightly too big, it was nice to know they had taken the time to give them to me.
Taking my own advice, I tried to get dressed as fast as I could, pulling on the sweater was challenging with my limited range of motion because of my ribs and the patchwork of stitches my back and front had become. It was a labor and a half, but I managed to get it on over the bandages that covered my torso and camisole they gave me. In comparison, it was child's play to slip on the overalls and fasten the straps. God, Vicky must have been all legs as a young girl because I had to roll up the pant legs lest I slip and fall. And that was the last thing I wanted to do. I sighed in exasperation. God, how I missed being tall. I used to be 6'8 now I was barely 4'1 and not even eighty pounds soaking wet. And yes, I checked. I was underweight. It was why they pushed that protein powder laced gruel on me. And a broken jaw did not help either.
Opening up the door, I was met with the mischievous grin of Vicky, and the quirked brow of Amy and barely there ghost of a grin.
"Come on, let's go, our ride is downstairs waiting." Vicky declared all but marching me out of my hospital room. I had barely the time to grab my notepad, dry erase board, pens and markers.
Despite the rather impressive marked PRT van that was waiting in the loading dock waiting. I was eagerly glancing around like a tourist. I failed to keep the excited grin off my face and I pointedly ignored Vicky's snickering at a glance at everything I could see from the window on the drive.
"Never been to Brockton Bay before, have you?" Amy asked.
Eagerly I shook my head no. my focus on the sights. I would get back to her later. I did have an idea about a collaboration that she would love. After all, who wouldn't love to walk on walls or even better shape-shift. And she was just the girl I had to talk to. But that could wait. The light bridge was coming up, and I did not want to miss a second of it.
It was just as hype as I expected. It even filled me with some good ideas. I wonder how director Piggot would feel if I gave someone the powers of the Living Laser? Or had light projections like Armour. Huh, that was new…
Entering the Rig, Miss Militia and Triumph, the newest member of the Protectorate met us. I was almost sure Armsmaster was prepping the testing rooms. It would be more efficient use of his time after all. And he was not a people person. I'd have to work on that. He was a much better person as Defiant, anyway. If I had my way, it would just be without all the psychological and physical scars.
"Welcome to the Rig," Miss Militia announced. I certainly did not let out a silent squee, no Sir. She even shook my hand. She was so gorgeous, even with the mask obscuring the lower half of her face.
'Oh, my gosh you're Miss Militia.' I Scrawled quickly, 'you're one of my favorites!'
So I was fanboying, girling? Eh, who cares? I mentally shrugged.
"Hey, I'm here too." Triumph sighed.
I blinked blankly at him. As I wrote, 'uhh, who… are you?' I failed spectacularly at keeping the grin from my face by hiding it behind my board.
I got him to let out a snort of amusement. "You cheeky brat," he laughed, mussing my hair.
I absolutely hissed indignantly slapping away his hand. God, I wish I was tall. This would definitely not happen if I was tall. I settled for kicking him in the shins. It was absolutely the appropriate response. Even if he barely felt it being a stupid brute four.
Miss Militia cleared her throat, "Ahem, as amusing as that was. Let's get you to power testing. We have a schedule to keep after all." She chuckled. Even doing that whole eye smile thing too.
Eagerly I followed her like an obedient duckling. Glancing at everything in wonder and childlike joy.
Once we got to the power testing rooms, like I had predicted, Armsmaster was there in a booth on the other side of the gymnasium like room. On the adjacent wall was also a privacy screen.
Miss Militia pointed me to the sectioned off area. "You can change out of your street clothes there." she told me. "We will be in the booth with Armsmaster. Ok?"
Nodding, I quickly went to change. What they provided was a hospital gown and a pair of shorts. I took everything off except my underwear, set them on the table and slipped on the gown and shorts. The gown was like a dress on me and the shorts were not much better given that they may as well have been pants for how long they were on my frame. I once more let out an aggravated sigh of frustration. I really hated being short. Perhaps once this was over, I could tinker up a hot fix for this issue. Maybe a few Pym particles...
Stepping out and into the center of the room. I waited for instruction. They hit me with some kind of tinker tech blue light. Cause I felt kinda warm… and tingly.
"Nothing to worry about, just some preliminary scans. Please standby." Armsmaster assured me over the intercom.
'Huh, cool would love to know how it works,' I thought.
The light dimmed, and the intercom barked to life once more. "Can you show a small portion of your restoration ability?" he asked.
I gave a thumbs up. And then the light was back on me.
I inhaled deeply, then broadened the connection to my power. Just like last time, I was in the driver's seat.
(Connecting to Archive…)
(Connecting to astral back up…)
This time I would not get lost in the influx of information, of power. I would do what I needed and only that. I would restore my ribs.
(Executing partial restoration…)
It all happened in the blink of the eye. One moment my ribs were broken. On the mend, yes, but still broken. And now just like that they were like I had never broken them in the first place. I let out my held breath, breaking out into a grin.
I could overhear them from within the booth.
"Uh, what just happened?" That was Vicky. "One minute we were looking at scans of broken ribs, then the next they just weren't broken anymore."
"Can you do that again? Only this time we will have Panacea observe using her power as well."
I gave them a cheeky thumbs up once more.
Amy came out of the booth, and I took her hand in mine. Just like last time, I took a breath.
(Connecting to Archive…)
(Connecting to Astral back up…)
(Executing partial restoration…)
What I did this time was merely superficial by restoring my skin once marred with bruises to its natural pristine state. Save for the lacerations that dotted my body and back.
Panacea was clearly in awe. "That was amazing for a moment your brain activity spiked. Then in the next, all your bruises just vanished. No transition from one to the next." She exclaimed, there was a slight glazed look in her eyes. Normally, I would be worried about my virtue. If she were simply just gay. And not Vicky-sexual.
With a tendril of power, I reached out. And summoned my notebook to myself.
All speech died off. I snorted in amusement. If they thought this was impressive. Then they really have seen nothing yet. This was just a mere parlor trick I had worked out in a day. Just wait until they see what I could do with a can of paint, some duct tape, and some feathers. No powers needed.
I flipped to the page with a pre-written question. "Can I fix the rest of my wounds now?"
The intercom flicked to life once more. "Err, yes of course please do, we will continue observation."
This time I let all of my power come to bear in my excitement. For a split second a glyph flashed upon the floor.
(Connecting to archive…)
(Astral backup connected…)
(Executing full restoration from backup!)
My power flowed off me in visible waves, simultaneously tracing over my wounds, glowing an eerie azure blue and erasing my wounds like they had never been. Only stitches remained. Stitches, I was so eager to finally be rid of, that I failed to reign in my power. And let a portion of it shift to disintegration.
Mistakes were made. "Oh, dear." I heard Miss militia say.
I looked around in confusion. What was wrong? I looked to Amy whose face was aflame, red with embarrassment. I saw myself in the booth's reflection. With slowly dawning horror I realized that in my haste I had disintegrated not only the stitches and the metal in my mouth but the gown and every stitch of clothes I was wearing. My cheeks aflame as I dashed off to hide behind the curtains in embarrassment. Yeah, mistakes were made. I had given everyone an eye full, that was certain. So embarrassing!
"Excuse me, Alex? I've got you some more clothes." Miss militia gently soothed.
I wanted to say thank you, but the words just would not come. They just caught in my throat. I nodded my thanks. I really wanted to speak, really I did.
This time it was a skintight bodysuit. In all black I could tell it had some tinker tech within most likely to monitor my power use. Something I was determined not to slip from my control. This time when I walked out there was a pedestal in the center of the room on it was a four by four cube.
"I would like you to use your power on the cube feel free to do so in any way you choose." Armsmaster said, still monitoring things from the booth.
This time, not wanting an accidental stripping like last time, I leashed my control tightly. Channeled my power into the block with just a touch, it vanished. And only it vanished. Broken down into its base elements and composite ions. Until not even steam remained.
I was not met with speechless gazes or awe. Even if I couldn't look any of them in the face. God, that was so mortifying. My cheeks went a little red at just the thought.
For a moment Armsmaster continued to type and review the recordings. Before Miss Militia's voice came over the comms. "Ok Alex, it will take some time before the next test. so Triumph here is going to take you guys to the mess hall for lunch."
Still wearing the obvious tinker tech suit, I trotted along with the other's. Eager for a bite of anything solid. From today onward no more mush or food in a cup for me. I all but skipped along after them.
Even as we ordered, I had yet to utter a single word. Everyone stared as I wrote my order. Most not believing that I had ordered the biggest burger I could. Many of the troopers on duty stared at my order, my artery clogging, decadent burger in disbelief. Most thinking that there was no way that tiny girl could finish that burger with its three brilliant juicy patties topped with the golden goodness that was American cheese, fried onions, regular onions, bacon, ketchup, mayo, all wrapped in the buttery goodness that is a brioche bun. And a healthy side of fries and a drink.
I grinned, if they thought I could not finish this then they had another thing coming. As I tucked in and took my first bite of pure burger bliss. It was heaven.
"jeez, if I didn't know any better. I'd think you're starving." Vicky snorted in amusement. Reaching over to steal a fry.
I absolutely hissed. This was my precious. Ok, so I had gone a bit rabid. Even if I looked about as threatening as a chipmunk. But then who wouldn't after enjoying the wonders of hospital food through a straw for any amount of time. All of it laced with 'vitamins and supplements.' Pure poison, I say.
"Vicky let her enjoy her heart attack. It's the least we can do. She deserves a pleasant treat after having to drink hospital food." I absentmindedly nodded my approval. With Amy's words, she at the very least understood. Truely a goddess this girl. I'd worship her till the end of days. Yes sir.
I'd have to do something really nice for her. I wonder if she'd like a symbiote. But that could wait until later. Yeah, definitely later. Right now I was more than halfway through burgery heavenly goodness.
"Oh my god, she's like an adorable garbage disposal." Vicky exclaimed. "An adorable chipmunk with a bottomless pit for a stomach. "
All too soon I had consumed my heaven and fries with a contented sigh. Enjoying my reaquired ability to have solid foods once more, I knew I could go for more. But that would be excessive.
"If a blast furnace could be cute, then it would be you." Vicky continued to tease me.
I simply rolled my eyes. And continued to sip at my drink.
As we idly sat enjoying each other's company. The intercom crackled to life. "Triumph Please report to the testing room the next test is ready." Armsmaster voiced.
"Well, it looks like break time is over." He said. Vicky, Amy, and I stood. Following Triumph out of the mess hall.
When we got back to the testing room. It had changed and it took the form of a shooting range. Armsmaster was waiting at the booths to the range while Miss Militia was waiting in the observation booth. While the others headed to the observation booth. I headed to the shooting booth that Armsmaster was standing next to.
On the counter of the booth he was standing next to there was a rather large thick rugged military esque case. It was stamped with the head of a dragon. Idly, I wondered what was in the case. I did not have to wait long.
Armsmaster began undoing the clasps that held it closed. I knew exactly what the case contained when he opened it. How could I not?
"We built these based on the rough designs. We found in your room when you were out for those four days." he explained. "These prototypes were the best Dragon and I could come up with based on some of your notes. We gathered while you were in your coma."
Even as I stood there stunned. He continued on, "You're a tinker, aren't you?"
I wanted to answer, I really did. I wanted to tell him yes, to say so much more. But the words just would not come. My words felt caught in my throat, my head felt like it was pounding. My heart pounding a rapid, erratic rhythm in my chest. It felt hard to even breathe.
Thank god that Armsmaster was not the fucking ROBOT Fanon described him as. Because he abandoned his current line of conversation and knelt to meet me eye to eye. "You don't have to say anything. It's ok." he soothed.
I really wasn't ok, but thanks to him bringing me back and breaking me out of that emotional down spiral. I would manage. Nodding my understanding into his shoulder.
"Are you good to continue?" he asked.
I nodded my tremulous affirmation. Stepping up to look once more at what was in the case. Wiping away an errant tear. I gazed upon the three devices within.
"I do hope that they meet your expectations." a female voice said over the speakers. I stiffened in shock. "It took us a while to reverse engineer these." ah, so that was Dragon.
The devices were large, all of them larger than what my designs would have needed. Despite that, they were more than adequate. The first of them was what looked like an oversized tablet. The moment I picked it up it powered on, responding to my touch, syphoning off a miniscule portion of my power.
Immediately, the code that would enable me to communicate without words came to mind. It was telepathy, but that was incredibly invasive and well over thirty sequences long, rather excessive for my needs. It was with a thought that I cut it by halve, reducing it from telepathy to something more reasonable, a burden that this device could handle. Instantly azure ethereal words flickered into existence, visible to Armsmaster alone. 'Yes, thank you.' I think I'll call it cast communication.
"How did you do that?" he asked, taking a step back in surprise.
I could not help the grin that grew as I explained this time letting everyone see, 'I can do this thanks to this Casting assist device here. It's meant to assist me by processing part or some of the data involved in manipulating the extra dimensional energies. With it I can produce different effects like this.' I couldn't tell them I was using magic, nor what my specialty was after all. They'd totally flip or think I was a nutter like Myrddin. So extra dimensional energies it was.
Ever inquisitive as he was, Armsmaster asked. "So is this your speciality? Energy manipulation?"
I merely shook my head, Wiggling my hand in a so-so gesture. Instead of giving him a definitive answer I looked to the other two C.A.D. 's in the case one was an oversized bracelet, it looked more like a Vambrace than what my notes had devised. The other was an oversized hand cannon. Bulky in its design.
'May I test these out?' I thought, my thoughts translated into words everyone could see.
"Yes, of course it's why we brought these out after all." Armsmaster agreed. He gave Miss Militia a thumbs up. Signaling her to start up the range.
Immediately human shaped constructs appeared down range. I had never even used a gun nor touched one before in my life. But nonetheless I was eager to try.
Picking up the gun, it responded to my touch just like the tablet. Setting down the tablet, I held the gun in both hands. Selecting the spell I desired, I cast Mist dispersion. The long-range version of my decomposition spell. As I predicted would happen, I had missed only grazing the target.
Even with just that graze, I erased the target's arm below the elbow. With a sigh, I knew there would be firearms training in the future. Even if it was just for safeties' sake alone. I widen my stance. And took aim once more. With each shot I took I got more comfortable with the C.A.D. becoming more accurate as time went on.
In what felt like all too soon, Armsmaster rested a hand on my shoulder. "I think that's enough for today its three o'clock and we still have to meet with the director and your caseworker today." he said.
That meant a trip to the PRT building. I knew what this was likely about. Not that I minded, but I knew the Wards would be too restrictive. And I did not want to be anywhere near Shadow Stalker. That girl was a sociopathic mess.
With a nod, I set down the C.A.D.. and zipped over to the privacy screened area. I got dressed and while I hated going commando, but needs must and all that I supposed. I had a meeting to get too, after all. It was uncomfortable, to say the least.
In a bit of wry amusement as I pulled on the sweater and slipped into the overalls. I thought, 'one thing good about my involuntary gender change. At least I did not need to worry about getting my bits caught in a zipper like in that hilarious movie with Ben Stiller. Comedy gold, that was. Painful comedy gold.' I took the tablet C.A.D. on the way out.
It was a rather uneventful trip back across the Rig's light bridge. This time, however, I noticed now that the excitement had worn off. That the bridge was connected to the north end of the docks. Next to the north ferry, in fact. We traveled through the docks. Into downtown and into the underground motor pool for the PRT building. Armsmaster coasted in right behind us.
It was here that I said my goodbyes to Vicky and Amy. Giving each a hug. "Bye," I wrote in my ghostly letters."See you soon squirt." Vicky teased, unknowingly hitting on a sore spot of mine. I huffed in disappointment. My thoughts on that subject writing themselves into the air. "Shut up, I'm not short." Amy just stood there in the background being her anti-social self, at least until I trotted up to her. And hugged the healer goodbye.
]|[
In all her years behind this desk. Acting in her duty as Director of the ENE division of the PRT. she could attest to rarely liking any Parahuman that had come through her department. Most were damaged individuals. Looking to regain some desperate control of their lives. To gain any sort of power they could.
So when Armsmaster and Alexandra walked into her office followed by her caseworker. She was expecting much of the same. A girl who went missing only to have been violently assaulted. As soon as we found her.
Instead, what she looked on before they even began this meeting was the sharp eyes of one determined.
Already she knew this was going to be a headache, one that would not be going in her direction. It made her want to drink. She glanced to the lowest draw of her desk, sorely tempted to pull out the thirty-year-old scotch she was saving for retirement. And chug it now, missing kidneys be damned.
]|[
I was impressed, thoroughly so. The entire way up the building had extensive defenses. Containment foam sprayers in the walls, a tinker tech security checkpoint. And so much more. As I glanced around in awe, I did not bother hiding my Glowing Eyes nor did my pace slow.
Right as we got off the elevator, I could see Bobbi waiting with an armoured PRT escort next to the director's office. And as we entered, I wondered just how Armsmaster would respond to getting an upgrade of the Captain America variety. I was going to do something similar to myself, anyway. And I figure he could use all the help he could before Leviathan… well, happened and all. He, Dragon and MM are currently two of my favorite people after all.
Speaking of Dragon, I do totally have to do something about that. An arduous task, to be sure. But before I even do that, I need to get some things in order. I wondered how bad Saint would flip if I made a version of Ultron. It would be fun...
Step one was the meeting we were about to have regarding my fate. I knew for a fact that I would prefer to not have to join the wards. The time I would have to put into the Wards. Would slow down my plans dramatically.
'Good evening Director, Deputy Director.' My ghostly writing appeared in the air. There was a slight intake of air, the widening of her eyes. But for her part, Emily mastered herself before it would even matter.
"Great, she can do that now too." She sighed, taking it all in stride rather well. Each of us sat in the chairs before her desk.
"We asked you here to discuss some important but difficult topics with you." The director began.
I nodded my affirmation. Showing her I'd understood.
"the first thing we need to tell you about is about your parents." She paused, taking the time to look me in the eye. "It is my regretful duty to inform you. That both of your parents have passed."
"According to their wills, you would be cared for by next of kin. That would be your grandparents who also passed." She went on. "Your parents and grandparents also left you as the sole beneficiary of their estates. Which, of course, you cannot access anything more than a trust fund until you are eighteen."
On some level, I knew I was all alone in this world. Yet to hear it spelled out made it all too real. I was all alone, no tropey oh, and bye the bye. You're also related to the Hebert's.
"So according to state law, we arrange for care until we can arrange a proper guardian. And because of your parahuman status. It is required that until then that you remain in PRT custody." She informed me.
While not surprising, I had assumed that this conversation was going to be about the Wards initiative, really. I was starting to like her already. Emily Pigot was a straight shooter blunt to a point. She had no need nor care for bullshit. Right now, I could appreciate that.
"I'm going to be clear here. The official position of the PRT is, we strongly recommend that you join the wards. We could provide protection and support to you as a Tinker." she grimaced as if swallowing a bitter lemon, "that being said you are under no obligation to join. So of course the question is, would you be willing to join the Wards?" the Director asked. She had to, and I was grateful for the honesty really I was. Few would be honest with a child. She forever had my gratitude for this. Even if the words that appeared above me were, "sorry but at this time I can't accept a position in the wards. I'm not a hero…" denying her request, at least for now.
I brought up my next question in my same ghostly script. "If it's at all possible, I would like to see about getting some clothes and check my trust fund."
It was the silent and stoic deputy director who spoke up on that matter. "Ah, yes that, for now you will be given a stipend from the PRT to cover any clothes you may need. It has been arranged for you to set up an account at a bank of your choice tomorrow."
'Ok,' my thought materializing in the air.
Director Piggot picked up where he left off. "For now, you will remain here on base until proper guardianship can be arranged. And proper facilities will be arranged for the duration of your stay for you to tinker in. Of course, that means that we will require you to sign an NDA regarding the identities of our Wards."
I had no problem with any of this, none an NDA was the least of what I was willing to sign right now. I needed to prioritize setting up my power base and put several things in order. So I nodded my affirmation to this arrangement.
"On a lighter note, we have arranged for placement tests to see where you are academically for your schooling. Those will take place at the end of the week. Also, we have a therapist on duty. There is no pressure, but we would like for you to see her." the director added.
Of course there would be school. I sighed, I had to accept this too. There was no real choice. A therapist I could handle. But school, yeah, that's a nope right there, all the way to nopesville. I already went to school and graduated once in my life. I'd prefer not to do so again. Perhaps I could test out? I put my thoughts to words, 'do I really have to go to school?' I begged.
Emily snorted in amusement. Of all the things put forth, the girl had only really pushed back on school, of all things. "I'm afraid so." she answered. Thoroughly dashing my hopes right then and there.
From there we moved on to signing all the paperwork needed for the duration of my stay in PRT HQ. It ranged from agreements that I would not use my far sight to look in on secure meetings, to the aforementioned NDA's regarding the identities of the Wards and the Protectorate heroes, one for each hero. By the time we were finished, it was after five.
They escorted me to the Wards base. When we arrived at the lowest floor via the elevator Armsmaster stepped up to the retinal scanner his opaque visor shifted to clear for the briefest of moments. Then There was a loud buzzer that went off.
"It's the warning buzzer. Letting the Wards know that someone is coming and that they can mask up if they wish." he explained.
The door to the elevator opened about a minute and a half later and we entered the large underground common room. Within it were Aegis and Vista. Both were on standby, running the Ward's counsel.
I suspected that Clockblocker, Shadow Stalker, Gallant, and Kid Win were all out on patrol.
They turned in their chairs to face us.
"Aegis, Vista," Armsmaster greeted with a nod.
"Good evening, Sir," Aegis replied. "Is she a recruit?" He asked.
Armsmaster shook his head no, "No, not as yet, however she will be staying here for the time being and has signed all the forms. So it is ok for you to un-mask if you wish."
"Yes sir," Aegis said.
"I trust I can leave her with you?" the Protectorate hero asked.
"Of course."
Armsmaster turned to me, "some extra clothes and toiletries will be brought down for you soon," he said to me, placing a hand on my shoulder. "I've got to go now." with that the armoured hero turned to leave.
With Armsmaster gone, I made my way over to the couch in the common area. I longed to build something, anything really. But I held the urge to do so back. Instead, I watched the wards work. It went on like that for a while; they focused on their tasks while I was completely and utterly bored. Idly I wondered what Taylor was doing, for that matter I wondered what the wards patrol was like.
I would like to say I lasted a whole ten minutes before I gave in and used my power to search for Taylor.
From what I knew in the story, Taylor lived in the southern part of the docks region. I set it as the focus of my search. I also knew she went to Winslow high school. And from what I knew, there were only two parahumans that went to Winslow. I used what I knew to narrow my search further. Within the span of seconds, I processed thousands of people. Looking for that telltale 'spark' that unique strand of data that distinguished Parahumans from those that are not. I excluded anyone Asian, Latino, or Black. I was looking for a high school aged tall skinny girl with glasses and long black curly hair.
'Ah, and there she was. At home,' what were the odds that I'd find her now. Now I wonder how to communicate? She is in her room, so there's no need to worry about discovery. With what I have now it would be a slipshod mess and I would prefer not to push this prototype so hard using something like telepathy. I sighed and gave up the endeavor, for now at least. Attempting communication later, now that I have found her 'spark,' her code. I can locate her whenever I wish.
With a sigh, I ceased the use of my Elemental sight. And awoke to come face to visor with a glaring Vista. I let out a silent 'meep' of shock. And would have tipped backwards and spilled onto the floor had I chosen a chair and not the couch. No, instead I was merely terrified out of my gourd by the surprise. I nearly peed myself in surprise. Something that I had nearly done a few times already… I had to adjust.
'Don't do that!' I wrote in big bold letters.
"What? Your eyes were glowing. Did you know your eyes glowed?" she shrugged.
Oh, was that all she wanted? With a sigh, my reply came in the form of my ghostly letters, 'yes, yes I know they glow when I use my power.'
"Really, what is your power then?" she eagerly asked. Her youth clearly on display. Like a kid in a candy shop, only with powers.
On this much I could throw her a bone. With a grin, my eyes glowed. As I explained. 'It's an aspect of my power, you could call it clairvoyance, or even far sight. But when I use it, I can find anything or one I choose. Everyone is unique, and every parahuman is even more so.' my thoughts appearing as wispy letters in the air. Even now I was looking in on the Ward's current patrol. Even as I watched not more than two blocks over from Shadow Stalker and Gallent's patrol route was a drug deal going down, I frowned. Man, some people were being stupid tonight. I informed Vista of just that. 'Two blocks over from gallant's current position looks like a major drug deal going down. It's on a side street just off of Jefferson and Walsh.'
Vista nodded. And went back to the console. Slipping on her head set she settled into what I would call hero mode. "Shadow Stalker, Gallant, this is Console. Be advised, we just got a tip that there is a drug deal going on two blocks east on a side street just off of Jefferson and Walsh."
I could see how they reacted springing into action, even as I heard Vista relay more information. "Shadow Stalker, Gallant, you are clear to engage. A PRT squad along with Assault is on its way to support, ETA three minutes."
There was silence for three long minutes as I watched with my sight everything that went down. Shadow stalker and Gallant engaged. Taking the Merchant thugs down with ease. With a series of emotion altering blasts, many fell into a depressive state long enough for Stalker to land a clean hit with tranquilizer rounds from her crossbows. and while some escaped. What was more important was getting the money and the drugs? The PRT and Assault coming in to take custody of the six that they grabbed out of ten. It all happened so fast, and I struggled to keep focus. It was getting harder to even keep my eyes open.
When it was all said and done, I was a bit relieved and sleepy. I struggled to stay awake. Despite my already full day of using my power at every chance I got. I hadn't even gotten the chance to meet the other wards yet. I glanced at the clock on the wall. Noting the time to be nine o'clock. Then I was out like a light.