Chapter 3 - Old & New Beginnings

There's this strange tension in the room. I'm young and I'm sitting with my parents, and an unknown gentleman sits across from us. His pale complexion completely contrasting his vantablack suit, with gold trim bordering his neck and wrists. He's young, but his long hair has lost all of its color, which is being held back in a ponytail. His facial features are sharp, and as he sips his drink, I feel his black eyes occasionally shift over to me. Off to either side of him stands two burly men, ready to defend this man with their lives. I look to both of my parents, their faces are featureless, I have forgotten what they look like all together. The gentleman finishes his drink, which was offered to him by my parents, before breaking the silence.

"My apologies for coming so late in the evening, and my gratitude for inviting me in. My initial statement was abrupt, so let's go into details. You may call me Mr. Thompson, and I work with the Warrick Corporation. We are the forerunners in genetic augmentation, aspiring to enhance the human condition to become near immune to all form of disease and sickness." He states in a rehearsed manner, but his sultry tone captivates all who listen. "This young man is getting ready to start school, and thanks to the tests your doctor performed, we noticed a unique gene sequence that would be perfect to aid in the Warrick Corporation's endeavors."

"To be frank, I don't think either of us have heard of anything like this before now. This all seems sudden, and a little shady," my father replies. "How do we even know what you are doing is safe, or even legal? You know what? No. I think it's time for you to leave, Mr. Thompson." My father rises and walks towards him, one of the guards interposing. Mr. Thompson raises his hand to stop the guard and begins speaking once more.

"Now, I understand what you are saying. We can offer you so much for your cooperation. He reaches down and pulls out a small packet of papers, and hands it to mom. "What you have there is multiple studies done in the past twenty years. Even during its preliminary stages, the mortality rate was next to nothing, and not only is it legal, it's even endorsed by the government! We can offer young (Y/N) a wonderful education during his time at the facility. In fact, we have some of the best scholars in the nation teaching the children." He pulls out another packet and hands it to my father.

"Once his time is finished, he can finish out his education at the facility, or he may return home and continue education at your school of choice. This is a major life changing decision, and, not to sound like this young man's life can have a price placed on it, will pay handsomely for your utmost cooperation. Your debts will be wiped clean, as well as a $100,000 dollar yearly stipend. If his education is to resume out of facility, we will also pay for his fees and even his college tuition. Not only do we have wonderful teachers, we have highly renowned nutritionists and chefs to prepare meals, and fitness specialists are also there to cater to each child's need. A multitude of doctors are also on site in case any need for them arise. If such a situation occurs where more, immediate, care is needed, a helicopter stationed on the roof is always fueled and ready to fly to the hospital."

Silence befalls my parents for several minutes. The only noise comes from papers turning as each read through what Mr. Thompson gave them.

"What about," a lump gets caught in her throat before continuing. "What about visitation? How far away is the facility?" My mother asks.

"The facility is roughly a twenty minute drive from here. We wouldn't be able to drive much of a bargain if we didn't allow visitation, now would we? During the weekend, visitation is permitted. However, most parents are like yourselves; worried. It's understandable, but I must say most don't pay visits. He will be living in a community and these kids begin to thrive in the environment they are put in. The facility is littered with one way glass, and most parents just find comfort in seeing them. I know this seems like fiction, but we can even show you testimonials from other parents if you'd like." Mr. Thompson pulls out a laptop while speaking and turns it on. There's about a ten minute video of multiple parents speaking their peace. The video ends and he returns it to his case and continues. "I know this is a lot to take in, and I'm afraid I need your answer tonight. We have two other groups also recruiting, and once one of the families accepts, the deals are off the table. The females are full, and only one spot left for males remain Additionally, the first round of injections must be administered with haste. These injections only work with children, and the older they are, even by hours, the less likely it is to work. If his body rejects the medicine, the contract is void and he is returned into your care. I can't guarantee you have a moment to think it over, but please by all means." He sits back and crosses his legs, anticipating their answer.

My parents step out of the room for a moment, leaving me alone with Mr. Thompson. I'm a little drowsy, but I refuse to fall asleep. My parents return and my father speaks.

"We'll take you up on your offer. It sounds like this might be the best for (Y/N) and in the long run, for our family as well. I'll just run and pack him a bag." His voice lacks the confidence a situation like this needs. Whether he believes he should isn't clear, but more like he needs to.

"That won't be necessary." Mr. Thompson states as he leaves his seat. "We have a wide array of clothes and toys at the facility. If he has any comfort objects, that's all he'll need to take." He takes out a piece of paper. "Read this and sign please. It's a contract, talking about what we spoke of. I'll also write the address of the facility, directions to get there, and its general landline for phone calls." He strolls over to me. "I hope we get along (Y/N)! I expect great things from you!" He flashes a smile, his teeth are almost bleached white, but something is off about his smile. "Mason, if you would please get the large bag from the trunk." He turns back to my parents who are finishing up with the contract. "A simple thank you. This is yours to keep, even if (Y/N) can't stay with us."

Moments pass, and Mason returns with another man in tow. A large black duffel bag hits the ground with a solid thump. The other man is a kindly old gentleman, even though his features are sunken, he shows a sincere smile. "Come with me, young one. We shall wait in the car while the rest of the matters are sorted. We even have a small laptop on it with cartoons! Those silly things always confuse me, maybe you could help me understand them better!" He speaks in a soft tone.

I turn back to my parents and then come over and each give me a hug and kiss. Tears are forming at the ends of my mother's eyes, I guess dad is fighting them back to stay strong for her. "Go on honey," mom says quietly, "we'll visit you soon. Be good, okay?"

Dad leans in an speaks. "Let's show mom how big and brave you are. I'll walk you two out," dad says as he looks up towards the elderly gentleman.

Fifteen minutes pass in the car, and I see Mr. Thompson and the other two guards approach the limousine door. The old man, who went by Henry, went to the driver seat. Mr. Thompson sat beside me and the two guards across. The car slowly got up to speed. The ride was quiet, except for the sound of multiple sirens breaking the silence after only about ten minutes of travel.

We reach our destination. The exterior looks like just an ordinary house, and once we got inside, it mirrored that fact. A handful of people are inside, all wearing ID's of some kind. I'm guided to a door with an electronic keypad next to it. Mr. Thompson rapidly enters a combination and the door unlocks. A narrow hallway leads to an elevator and we enter. The ride down took a few minutes, and once the door opened, I was greeted by a room that reminds me of a doctor's office. A woman with long red hair approaches us. Under her lab coat are relatively casual clothes. Her vibrant green eyes stand out against her tan skin.

"Always fashionably late, aren't you Thompson?" She begins. "Why is it that your employees do the job faster than you?"

"Oh Miss Reese, where's the fun in that? The challenge?" Mr. Thompson retorts. "Anyway, this is (Y/N)." He gestures down to me, then meets me with his eyes. "Go on, Miss Reese will show you to your room."

I follow her and am lead into a back hallway. There are 7 doors, split as evenly as they can be between the sides. She knocks on my door, pauses, then opens it. "Kaliah? Are you still awake?" She speaks in a hush tone, and is met with an quiet reply. "Wonderful!" She takes my hand and leads me in. On each side of the room, tucked in the corners are twin sized beds. Resting at the ends are footlockers. At the doorway, sits two desks with lamps, and in between sits dressers. A girl, who appears to be my age is sitting on her bed. She has light brown eyes, and black hair that reaches her small of her back. She appears to be tired, and to frankly, I am too. "Kaliah, this is going to be your partner for the facility. (Y/N), meet Kaliah. Kaliah meet (Y/N)." Tired hellos are passed between us and Ms. Tessa resumes. "You two will have plenty of time tomorrow to get to know each other. For now, you should probably get to sleep. You will get your shots tomorrow. I know it might sound a little scary, but I promise you won't feel a thing!" She ushers me to my bed.

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My eyes shoot open. I get to my feet before pain shoots across my body. Small green numbers rest where I once lay, and it reads 3:30 pm. The date reflects that only two days have passed since the battle with Blast Cap. I take stock of the room. There are two doors, one by the bed, and once on the opposite side of the room. My backpack sits on a chair only a few feet away. I step near the door by the bed and it slides open. A light hits my eyes, and inside sits a bathroom. I step away and grab my bag, and enter. I stand in front of the mirror and see quite the sight. My short brown hair is surprisingly intact. My sclera are still a little red, nestled inside are two black irises. Underneath, two red tear stains mark my light skin. My clothes are in pretty bad shape. I begin to take off the burned, tattered clothes, wincing in pain as the fibers rip from my burnt skin. A lot of the burns from the battle are already healing quite nicely, I should be back in top shape in another day or two. I look to the bath. I don't think taking one in this condition is a good idea, but I wouldn't mind cleaning up a bit. I grab, the wash cloth and run it under some water and clean up. I don my spare set, then grab my old pants. I dig through the only usable pocket and pick out Blast Cap's earpiece, and place it in my ear.

"Is this thing on?" I say as I tap the ear piece. A few moments later, a deep female voice rises.

"Ah, this must be R2149. Nice work on B1446. He was a favorite to win. I'm sure you have a lot of questions."

"You're damn right I do. First who-"

"You'll get all the answers you want in due time." She interrupts. "You are an interesting case for us, and we are prepared to work with you, so long as you participate as a candidate."

"I really don't have to play into your bullshit. If you won't talk, I'll just find you. The fact that there was more than one of those damned facilities means I can hunt you down and get my answers directly."

"It really can be a simple exchange R2149. For every-"

"(Y/N). My name is (Y/N)!"

"Well, (Y/N), for every other candidate you beat, we will give you something. Win it all, and we will grant you anything within our power. Since you did defeat B1446, we will, in good faith, give you something now. There are twelve facilities that focus on creating powerful abilities, and helping them hone them into fine edges. Your facility, was not one of them. Strangely enough, your genes mutated the power into one befitting of a candidate. The goal of our bouts, is to create the ultimate warrior. Taking data from each fight and manufacturing the best countermeasure against all foes."

"If that's true, then why kill the loser? Why not make your own little 'Justice League'."

"B1446 had his own ideals. The losers are not meant to be killed, but retrieved for further study. We'd like to create a person without weakness, then creating multiple of them."

"Quite frankly, I'm not buying it. So, I'm going to find you, and end every single one of your projects."

"I guess we need a better incentive. She isn't dead." My voice gets caught in my throat and she continues. "In one month's time, head to the train station nearest to where you fought B1446. Locker 12. The combination is 18-30-04. Go and see for yourself. We eagerly await your participation."

"WAIT!"

"All in due time."

"NO! What was his name?! Blast Cap! What was his name?!" The line is quiet for what seems like an eternity before she speaks again.

"Christopher."

The line goes silent. I try to get someone to say something, before a sharp noise rings in my ear. I yank out the earpiece and as it falls to the ground, and it sparks. I grab my book and turn to the first page. Fifteen names are written, and at the top reads "Kaliah." I grab a pen out of my bag and add Christopher to the list. I begin flipping through and seeing all the faces I've drawn, each person I've saved. At the very end, I see the hastily drawn photo of the Titans. This isn't a hospital, so maybe they are around. Maybe...maybe they can help.

I walk to the other door and it slides open. I wander for a bit before two doors slide open. Inside, a lounging area. The six teens are in the room. The boys and Starfire are sitting on the couch, two of which are playing a game. Terra is listening to something, and Raven is reading. The latter two notice and meet my gaze.

"You're awake already?" Raven states in a monotonous voice. The couch notices her speak and they stand and turn towards me.

"You were in pretty rough shape, are you sure you should be moving around?" Robin says.

"Well, I heal kind of quick. I should be back to 100% soon." I say as a strike a pose of confidence and strength. "The burns shouldn't even leave a scar."

"Dude, that guy shot out explosions! You must be wicked good to only get away with that." Beast Boy chimes in.

"Well, as much as I would like to take credit, my power is to thank." As I mention my power, the faces turn sullen.

"The same power used to kill Blast Cap?" Robin bluntly states. After that statement, I could swear I heard that ghastly laugh, but none of the pain appeared.

"Look, I didn't want to do that, but if it was him or us and thousands of innocent people...I choose him."

"That's not our call to make." Cyborg steps in. "We are the good guys. We don't kill, if we did, we'd be just as bad as them."

"You're right. I haven't had a lot of practice with my powers, and I don't know their ins and outs super well. I maybe could've controlled him in such a way to deactivate his powers, but it's not like I've done this enough to know."

"If it's help controlling your powers, we could totally help!" Terra jumps in. "I haven't been with them too long, but they've definitely helped me improve."

"(Y/N), right? Speaking of your powers, what are they? Some kind of telekinesis?" Robin speculates.

"It's a form of it yeah. Hemokinesis. I can control my blood in various different ways. Like when I fought Blast Cap. I got hit point blank with an explosion. I hardened all my blood at the time of impact. Got away with some missing skin and burns, but at least I'm in one piece."

"If you can only control your blood, then how did you do what you did with Blast Cap?" Robin retorts.

I take a breath before continuing. "It's simple. Think of it like disease. I'm patient zero. Anyone with infected blood, I can manipulate. If my blood comes in contact with someone else's it spreads. The more of my blood that comes in contact, the quicker it spreads, and once all of their blood is infected, I can control it like my own. I couldn't tell you if their blood ever cures itself, haven't had enough practice to know. It may be even possible to infect by having them ingest my blood, but I couldn't really be sure."

Robin places his hand on his chin and thinks for a moment. "I know you said you didn't know much about what was going on, but anything you know can help. We have a new enemy on our doorstep, and we need anything we can get." I spend the next several minutes informing the Titans of the earpiece and the conversation I had. I left out several facts, like the locker and the involvement in my facility. Covering up the fact that I should know by saying I merely escaped, which isn't a total lie. "So," Robin continued, "we will have to deal with at most eleven more like him. Possibly even more dangerous."

"Look, I know you guys just met me, let alone trust me. I might have a way to get more information, but it'll take about a month to get. I really want to get answers, and it seems like the only way will be to participate. So, if you guys can help, in any way at all, I'll be in your debt."

The Titans discussed for a bit and returned. Thankfully, they said they'd help, but have some conditions. I can't kill anymore (which I already intended to do), I'd have to practice with them and better control my powers, and strangely enough, join them. Joining them would mean helping other people, so I couldn't complain. I accepted their offer.

"Glorious! We are happy to have you, new friend! Now we must do the celebrations!" Starfire gleefully states as hugging me. A little too tight.

"Yes, that's all fine and dandy, but could you let go of me." My voice squeaks out. Pain shooting through my body as she presses against some of the burns. The squeezing also seem to remind me that I'm starving.

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"Attention candidates. We have decided it's best to have you all operate in one area. A colosseum if you will. Jump City will be your new battleground. Please do not forget, you mustn't kill opponents. Blast Cap already has, and because of such, he is no longer with us. I must also inform you, the one who claimed victory over him may be joining as a candidate. The survivor of the Reese Facility has been found, and is active. Get in touch with your sponsors and arrange transport." Mr. Thompson leans away from his microphone. He stands and walks back into a room with a large rounded table. Fifteen other figures sit around. "It's a shame you were the first to go, Ms. Bailey. No matter. What other interesting powers are you hiding?" He chuckles.

"Well, he was certainly our best candidate. Our remaining residents have some unique powers, but you can read all about that in our report after their testing." Ms. Bailey replies. Her low voice comes out of a very thin frame. Her blonde hair reaching down to her shoulders. Her pale skin seems to glow in the low light the room offers.

"You are excused from the candidate battles, Ms. Bailey... Actually, how would you like to sponsor R2149. Assuming he comes around, of course."

"I'd be delighted, President Thompson."

"Wonderful. Once he sees what we've got, he's bound to join us. Your candidates will be getting with you shortly, make sure to provide them with anything they need to get them to Jump City Adjourned." Mr. Thompson leaves the room and walks down a long corridor. He stands alongside a long pane of glass. "Turns out you are gonna play a bigger part than we anticipated." He whispers as he places his hand on the glass.

Happy New Year friends. I hope you all are doing wonderful and I hope this year is amazing for you! Now we will get into more Teen Titans stuff. Gonna need to spend some time rewatching it. I can already tell you I'm going to be horrible and writing their dialogue, like Starfire. So please be patient with me! Cheers.