WORM - SI OC Alt-power Crossover

by kaviyarasank124

WORM - SI / OC / Alt-power / Crossover from SB & QQ

7. Dangers of gaming

Table of Contents

Introduction

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Dangers Of Gaming

By: Cid-McConroy

A CYOA self insert normal means you get to choose your own power. However what happens when that…

Status: ongoing

Published: 2019-03-05

Updated: 2019-02-27

Words: 20975

Chapters: 4

Original source: https/forums./threads/52316

Exported with the assistance of

Dangers Of Gaming

Introduction

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Sometimes people just experiment with things that shouldn't be messed with. The perfect example is that of CYOA worm additions. It is just something that I and other people use for writing and making new ideas for stories. Of course, I knew of the stories of people being sucked in, but that was just a story, or that is what I thought.

Except I am now sitting on the floor looking at one Taylor Hebert, and shock mirrored on our faces. The funny part is that we both had a CYOA open on our computers and the world was about to change…

Looking back I should have known it was a bad idea. Doing something different was a sure fire way to get a ROBs attention, but it was just such a good idea. Doing a powerset for Taylor instead of myself using some of the most powerful normal humans. Green Arrow, Batman, and Captain America, each hero that lacks superhuman abilities and are A-Class Heroes. Each peak in human ability despite what some people might argue.

Those three together would be unstoppable and had great synergy. Green Arrow seemed to be just a good inventor as Batman and he had an amazing skill with bow and arrows. Batman, on the other hand, was a better thinker than Green Arrow. His detective skills, ability to prepare and even his mental fortitude was unmatched. Then add Captains America's physical perfection, Taylor would be unstoppable.

I still had to pick a few disadvantages though to get Taylor enough points based on the version I was using though. Only some didn't matter since they wouldn't affect her. Like being Taylor Hebert, few points there, Wildbow, what's a wild bow? A Geas of never killing and a few wanted. In the end, it leveled with both pros and cons making a Taylor that had more options available.

However, the real kicker here is that a ROB sent Taylor a sidekick generator. It was basically the same CYOA that I used but changed to include a list of shows, comic, and books with characters I know of. Using that knowledge Taylor created a power set for one thing, and one thing only. Killing Endbringers. That right Taylor created a sidekick that was meant to kill the most dangerous things in the world, and I would be the one to receive those powers.

However, instead of giving me powers like Superman so I could survive she had to change it up since she didn't have the points. I instead got the Mythic Eyes of Death Perception and the Gamer. Don't get me wrong, they are both insanely powerful, but I would still die if hit in the face by someone like Lung. At least for the first few months anyway.

Although that brings me back to the here and now. Me looking at a teenage girl with my computer open and I was on the floor since I landed on my butt. After all, I was sitting in a chair, but it didn't come with me.

"What the hell?" I was able to mutter out looking in wide-eyed disbelief.

Then with the silence broken Taylor moved to grab something from the desk and throw it at me. It hit me square in the temple and I saw a red flash above my eyes. It was like the hit detection markers from first-person shooter video games. Only right after the hit, I felt something explode and the bright letters of K.O. appeared as I passed out.

A few hours later I felt myself beginning to stir. Mainly it was from a beeping sound that is grabbing my attention. Opening my eyes I saw a status window showing the time.

Article:

{8:38 PM}

Rest cycle concluded.

HP and MP full.

Current status effect: Binding.

Article:

Active Quest: Escape

Time Limit: 10 Hours

Escape your bonds and leave the area. Or convince your captor to let you go.

Rewards.

Escape:

Your freedom but a decrease in relations with Taylor Hebert -200.

Convincing: Your freedom and an increase of relations with Taylor Hebert 50.

Failure: Handed over to the Protectorate and forced into service.

I felt a groan coming on as I read the screen. I had tried to move but something kept me still in an odd position. If I had to guess it was containment foam. I was fairly sure it was, mainly due to the status of binding. I was also pretty sure that I was now a Gamer because I wasn't freaking out. The status screen was a good clue as well.

Then there was the name Taylor "Queen of Escalation" Hebert. The protagonist of web series Worm and the subject to most fanfics I have read. Now I was given a quest to convince that girl to let me go. If I wasn't sure of her character then it might have been impossible. Instead, I did have a good picture of her character so it went to extremely hard.

Now the real question is what kind of Taylor did I end up with. Since Taylor with containment foam grenades was not part of the original story. If I had to guess it was a Tinker Taylor, and those were always fun. Well, for the most part, somewhere just creepy. Also, I hoped to God, not one of those bastard ROBs, that this Taylor was not a Baduka version. That would suck so much because of shards.

"Awake after four hours," I heard a voice speaking on the other side of the foam covering my face. "You must be a Parahuman, tell me who sent you."

I almost laughed when I heard her voice. It was one of those voices that a person did to try to make their voice sound deep and menacing. Also trying to hide what their real voice sound likes which was stupid if you ask me. After all a little voice recording magic you can bring it back to a simulation of a normal level. Making the whole thing pointless and funny to watch people make fools of themselves.

"Would you believe that some random omnipotent bastard decided to dump me here?" I asked finding just enough room to speak and succeeding at keeping my laughter in.

"No, I wouldn't," Taylor said trying to be dark and frightening. "Tell me the truth, it's in your best interest to cooperate."

"Well, it is the truth I think," I answered back while holding in a sarcastic remark. It might not be smart to antagonize her at the moment.

Article:

DING*

Do to a wise course of action your WISDOM increased by 1

'Thank you, Power of the Gamer, I thought it was a wise move too.'

"I was sitting down at my computer thinking about a new story to write using a choose your own adventure as a base. Then, poof, I fall down due to a lack of a comfy chair and then was hit in the head. Also what is this stuff anyway, I can't move anything but my lips?"

I lied about the containment foam since I had a pretty good idea what it was. But best to play ignorant for now. Then I thought of something, my computer, did my power cord make it?! I would need it to access some of the things on the timetable of Worm.

"Never mind that, is my computer ok?" I asked really worried about it since I was one of those that can't do without internet. A weakness on my part, but I must feed my mind with fanfiction or I get cranky.

The sudden question made Taylor stumble from what I could hear in her voice. Apparently, I shocked her with my lack of worry considering my current situation. Thank you Mind of the Gamer because without you I would be freaking out big time.

"Your computer's hard drive was fried when I tried to take a look into it." I could hear the voice fading as Taylor lost her edge due to my random question. "Are you sure you don't know what containment foam is?"

I wanted to shrug as I spoke.

"I am familiar with the idea, but is nothing but a work a fiction in my home dimension."

That's right Taylor I am from a different dimension, and I am not completely lying about everything either. That means my story could be possible and you should hurry up and let me out. I have an itch on my shoulder blade and I need to scratch it.

"I don't believe you. I am sure you will tell me what I want to know or you are going to be shipped to the Protectorate." Taylor said returning to the stupid voice.

Oh, come on! Let me out since it is the truth! You darn tinkers can't trust anybody that magically shows up in your lab! I know that you're laughing your butt off somewhere dam ROB! You better pray that I don't end up a v1 Worm Cyoa character because if I do I am going to find you and kick you between the legs!

I was getting angry since I don't like being trapped in something while it is dark. I don't know why but I never really gotten over my fear of the dark, and being in a small confined space didn't help. I wanted out so I could move because my legs were starting to cramp. Also, I wanted to close that update screen and the wisdom increase.

'Oh, would you two just close already.' I thought with a glare at the screens, and to my surprise they did.

Then an idea struck me, an awful, nasty, twisted idea. Not really any of those but the Grinch was on my mind for some reason. I projected the command Status Screen in my mind and hoped it would show up. Thankfully it did and I saw the stats screen of something I am familiar with. Mainly because it was what I brought up in my mind when I thought RPG character screens. It was the kind where everything was organized into clear sections: stats, skills, perks, missions, codex, and inventory.

Although the codex is new, I didn't think Jihan Han had anything like that in his Gamer abilities. Then again that was him and this is me and a codex is in a lot of games I play. It would be interesting to look through later but first I need to see what I am working with.

Article:

Lv: 5

Health Points: 160

Magic Points: 180

Strength: 10

Dexterity: 16

Vitality: 11

Intelligence: 13

Wisdom: 12

Charisma: 13

Luck: 8

It was the fairly basic stats format. That meant I was fairly average as normal people go. I was only skilled in a few other stats mainly because of my personality, and my grinding of video games. Whoever said video games weren't useful never could see the stats before. I just wished that I wasn't weakling in the unforgiving world of Worm. I glazed over my regain rate and other stuff since it didn't matter to me at this point. My Perks were a little different though and might help me survive the world till I could get stronger.

Article:

Gamer's Mind: Lv MAX

The user now is able to look at the world through the eyes of a Gamer. This allows them to think clearly as if looking through a computer screen.

Article:

Gamer's Body: Lv MAX

The user's body is that of a video game character. Any damage or effects can be healed in a single night's rest. Physics of the world act differently to them making it possible to do impossible feats.

Article:

Artist Soul: Lv 18

Success Rate: 90%

Due to a love of creation and possessions of the arts, the user has a buff when creating works of art.

Article:

Eagle's Pride: Lv N/A

Effect Bonus 25% to earning Exp, and Skill bonuses.

The Boy Scouts prepare many boys for adulthood. At the top of the trail is the Eagle Scouts. Due to the hard work the user has joined the few that reach the top. Bonus to all Skills developed in Boy Scouts.

Article:

Home Schooled: Lv N/A

Skills are Lv 2 when learned from a book.

Due to the user education background, they learned from books. Lesson gleamed from books and put into practice without a normal school environment as shaped their mind differently. As such they gain a bonus level when using a skill book.

I had to grin because some of my life experiences added to the perks. Home Schooled was useful because if I found any skill books I could jump to level two. Also, Eagle's Pride was very useful since I had quite the number of skills already under my belt. I skipped most of them to focus on the ones that would help me survive.

Article:

Weapon Proficiency: Rifles, Lv 7

Bonus Damage to Rifles 21%

Firearms changed the world of war, and to survive one must learn it's tools.

Article:

Weapon Proficiency: Pistols, Lv 3

Bonus Damage to Pistols 9%

Firearms changed the world of war, and to survive one must learn it's tools.

Article:

Weapon Proficiency: Shotguns, Lv 5

Bonus Damage to Shotguns 15%

Firearms changed the world of war, and to survive one must learn it's tools.

Article:

Weapon Proficiency: Bows, Lv 4

Bonus Damage to Bows 12%

The king of ranged weapons during the medieval age. Overthrown by the Firearms, but still is usable today.

Article:

Weapon Proficiency: Blunt Weapons, Lv 5

Blunt Weapon damage 15%

Speak softly and carry a big stick. Words never more true than with this skill.

Article:

Crafting: Lv 13

Crafting Success Bonus Rate 39%

As long as you have an idea, or blueprint, and the materials you can build it.

Article:

Physical Constitution: Lv 5

Damage Reduction by 15% Health Regen by 5%

An arrow to the knee has never been truer to the user then now. At least you can walk it off now.

I had to admit they didn't seem like much but they were some of the best I had. If I was going to survive I need more skills, and I needed them fast. Thankfully some skills came from boy scouts so I would gain a 25% experience bonus. The bonus would make them grow faster which would increase my likely hood of surviving in the long term. It also meant I wasn't left out in the cold with my underwear on however this was Worm and that was a game changer. Although other then Gamer I had one more trump card to my name. A power that was last resort but could save my life.

Article:

Perk

Mystic Eyes of Death Perception: Lv MAX

MP Drain, Use 2 Points every 5 minutes

The Root is said to be the focal point of the world, and those that can reach the Root are blessed with knowledge and power beyond understanding. Those possessing the Mystic Eyes of Death Perception, are said to see the Root, and thus can see death points of the world.

It was kind of like the Stinger shard in that I could hurt anything. It all depends on me being able to hit the line and willing for whatever I hit to be severed. A dangerous power and one that I wouldn't use lightly on people, but objects are another matter.

I focused and willed the eyes to activate, and saw lines of red flicker into life. Wiggling one of my fingers I began to move it so I could use my fingernail. In twenty minutes of hard concentration, I finally made enough room to reach the first line. Slowly I dragged my fingernail along it and felt no resistance. Then a cut appeared all the way through the foam allow me the leverage to push. A large chunk fell off allowing freedom to my right arm and part of my stomach. From there it was a short work of cutting and pushing until I was free.

"Now then time to learn," I said as I stepped out from the foam and to the wall and tables. It had the feel of someone putting things together without any real design.

The walls were covered with a network of lines and pictures showing current cases that Taylor was working on. Points looked like she was starting to grasp how much a threat Coil was along with a few other things. There was information on the ABB, E88 and the Merchants. Reference points to groups like Faultline's crew and New Wave. Police reports and case files that looked to be from the PRT. Things that showed Taylor was a busy girl.

Another part of the wall was clippings of news articles: "NEW VIGILANTE IN BROCKTON BAY," "VIGILANTE WORKS WITH POLICE TO STOP DRUG RING," "NIGHT WATCH, PARAHUMAN OR RICH KID?" "NIGHT WATCH, TAKES DOWN SKIDMARK!" "NIGHT WATCH, INDEPENDENT HERO, OR ZERO?" "PROTECTORATE INVITES NIGHT WATCH TO THE WARDS."

"Night Watch huh," I asked not really sure of the name. However, I was sure that this Taylor now had the powerset I was planning on writing. "At least she is staying small time."

Looking at the tables I had to agree that it was a good thing. There were so many unfinished inventions. Many Green Arrow's style arrows lay scattered about and some gear that looked like Batman's work. I also saw some stuff that I could swear comes from Marvel, but Cap was never an inventor.

I also saw a fridge which called on my stomach and it answered. With an empty stomach and a ravenous palette, I opened it up and withdrew some Chinese food as I made my way to the holy grail. The computer system Taylor had created, with a cheeky grin I hopped in the seat and took a bite of the food.

"Ooh, Chow Mein."

Last edited: Mar 5, 2019

Press Start: 2

I didn't know how long I sat looking through the computer researching the current situation of the city. I had a feeling that I was still slightly before the story since I didn't see any mention of the Undersiders hitting Lung's Casino. However, it couldn't be too far off since Taylor's locker incident happened a while back. I had a feeling that it was only a matter of time though, but that was only if butterflies weren't already affecting the canon.

Apparently, the Merchants weren't as powerful now since Taylor took down Skidmark, and left the door open for Squealer to be captured. At the moment Mush was all that was left and he wasn't much of a leader. It was something good in my opinion since the Merchants were scum.

It was around that time the debate whether 'Night Watch' was a parahuman or not. She didn't show any outward signs of being a parahuman. Most of the stuff she could do as well were things that anyone could do given time. Also, a statement about her tinker tech arrows by Armsmaster made people think she bought them. However, when she did some incredible feats while taking Skidmark down, people stopped doubting.

Then there came the point where everyone is worrying if she will survive. There came talks of the independent survival rate which prompted the Protectorate to offered her to join the Wards through a news conference. Apparently, it was the Police Commissioner that pushed for it. Saying that he didn't want to lose such a fine young woman to the streets. That may be in time she could be the bridge that connected the two divisions of law.

It was only a week since that announcement and Taylor probably hasn't decided yet. She must be preparing her gear and planning to do something. I can't remember if this was a fandom plot device or canon in that Taylor wanted to make a name for herself before joining the wards. I just wondered what she would do since it never came to that point in most stories. Most were because of Sophie Hess and Taylor's freak out about it. An understandable freakout, but completely over the top like what most teenagers do, and most adults as well.

I was taking another bite of food when a skill appeared in front of me. One that I wanted to unlock, but not sure I would enjoy the experience. All because I felt like ducking as a presence that wanted to do me harm. That and I saw a reflection of a foot appear on the computer screen.

Article:

DING

Article:

Due to a Certain action, Danger Sense has been created.

Danger Sense: Lv1

One second warning before an attack.

Knowing what's out to get you can save your life. The user can sense oncoming danger.

Unfortunately for me, one second is not enough time to react. The foot caught the side of my head. Then both the chair and I were thrown to the floor. As I was kicked smartly in the temple, I had made a revelation, Taylor really liked hitting people in the head.

There was a flash as I saw my health bar become depleted. It one single hit Taylor had drained over half my health. It wasn't much, to begin with, and losing half of it in one hit hurt like hell. I wanted to groan and roll on the ground, but the foot pinning my chest made it very hard.

Looking up I found a nice and shiny tinker tech arrow pointing at my face. Apparently, Taylor had taken the time while she was away to grab her toys and suit up. Her costume was a leather armor set stained dark green. Underneath the leather was a dark grey skin suit that mixed well with the armor. The piece seemed to break up her shape with the shadows making it hard to see. I couldn't see her face but I had to guess it was being hidden by a face mask that covered her mouth and nose. Her eyes were also probably covered by a domino mask. To top it all off there was a hood shadowing her face which helped block the light.

Out of curiosity, I did a mental command of Observe. I wanted to see her stats, and now it was a good time as any.

Article:

Name: Taylor Annerose Hebert

Alias: Night Watch

Lv: ????????

HP 260

MP 500

Taylor had some serious stats on her if her HP and MP were any indications. It also meant that she could seriously kick my ass if she wanted to. I, on the other hand, had nothing, other than the death eyes which I wasn't going to use on a person unless no other option was available. That meant I had to be charming if I wanted to get out of this with my teeth intact.

"How did you get out?" Taylor asked me in that lower voice, however, it didn't sound as funny with an arrow in my face. "You were looking through my computer systems, so I take it that you work for someone. Now tell me their name."

"I told you that I was dropped here by some random omnipotent bastard. That means I don't work for anyone. You could even check my fingerprints you'll find that I am a ghost." I was thinking clearly since the pain disappeared quickly. Just another perk to the gamer I take.

"I said tell me their names," Taylor commanded twisting her foot slightly as she pressed down.

I saw another flash of red as my health drop another ten points. That plus the eighty-seven points left me just close sixty-three points any lower and I might pass out. That wasn't an option since this was a timed quest.

"Stop hurting me, I only have sixty-three health points left! I'm already in the yellows and I don't want to hit the reds!"

There was a slight relief as Taylor let up on her pressure. She still kept the bow pointed at my face as she asked the next question

"What are your powers?"

I didn't like how there was a weight to the way Taylor said powers. If I was reading it in texts, I am sure it would be in bold and italic. Also, she said powers, as in more than one. Something about this screamed that I just said something important. I somehow cleared a dialogue phase and if I don't screw this up I could complete the quest. Then it would be best to answer truthfully, something I do most of the time anyway.

"The ROB gave me the power of the Gamer. It means my life is now that of a video game character. Also the Mystic Eyes of Death Perception that allows me to cut anything. It can also allow me to kill things that can't be killed."

There was a silence between us before Taylor put away her bow and removed her foot. I didn't know what was going on but I was just happy to not be pinned under her foot anymore. Combat boots are not known for being gentle.

"Shit," Taylor said removing her hood and looking at the computer. "What the hell did Dennis send me?"

I blinked sitting up feeling that I was at the center of the comment. I didn't want to interrupt her thoughts but I wanted to know since it involved me.

"Who sent you what?" I let my mouth run a little as I tried to figure out what she meant. "A video, pic, story, CYOA, something that isn't discussed in polite company?"

Taylor glared at me for the last comment before sighing. It was the kind of glare that a person uses when they don't want to talk about something they messed up on.

"He sent me a sidekick generator, something that I thought was a silly little program yet…"

"It made me pop up in your um.." I looked around the large warehouse trying to find the right words. "Base, after you completed it right?"

"Yes… How did you know that?" As Taylor asked her question her voice started to slip to a normal tone.

"Simple, there are many stories about it back home. Someone gets a message with a CYOA and they fill it out. Then poof next thing they know is that they are thrown it to a new dimension with the powers they filled out."

I was finally getting to my feet and was thankful for not being sore from being kicked in the head. The explanation rolled from my mouth without any real thought. After all, it was a well-known plot device that is a focus in more than a few stories on the forums I visit. Now I was in that story when I didn't even plan on it being one. Just goes to show me what twisted senses of humor this ROB has.

"Although it seems that it was in a little bit of a reverse here. Instead of the powers, I was planning writing going to the main character, they went to you. The powers that you picked to go to the sidekick more than likely went to me if the expression on your face is something to go by."

I was stretching when I heard another ding. In front of me was a window stating my quest was complete. It seemed I earned enough dialogue points to get Taylor to at least believe I wasn't there by choice. Hopefully, I would be close to leveling up since I need more stats points to ward off death.

"What do you mean the powers you chose went to me?" Taylor asked with a slightly disappointed tone in her voice.

"Well from the tech on the table over there it looks like you have a combination of Green Arrow and Batman. Just two of the three characters who I was taking powers from."

"Those names are familiar, what is the third?" Taylor asked moving to her computer with slight curiosity in her voice as her disappointment had evaporated.

"Well, it is Captain America. I was planning on a combination of the three best human level heroes I know of. At least the three that I like the most without an excuse of needing some hyper-advanced tech."

There was typing on the computer as Taylor pulled something up. The speed of her typing was fast enough to be scary. It almost sounded like the patter of rain droplets on a tin roof. Whatever she was doing it had her focus on a single point.

"Are these the three you were planning on taking powers from?" She asked rolling away from the screen.

On it was the three aforementioned superheroes, each in their comic book cover glory. However, underneath them was texts mentioning things like abilities and other specialties. There was also a point system to it… Kind of like the ones used by most CYOA.

"That's them, also close that window before another helpless writer gets dragged here. ROBs are never satisfied with little amounts of chaos."

There was a click as Taylor removed the window and stood up. She seemed to be in deep thought looking at the computer.

"I can see the similarities but, I seem a little different from what they described. Did you also use the same program when picking the powers that you were going to use for your character?"

"No, I pulled them from a CYOA image set. I never saw a programed CYOA like that expect in stories. After all, that is a sure fire way to tell if they are a ROB or just an average joe."

"Why do you keep on say Rob, I take it is not just a name?" Taylor asked looking at me trying to figure out what to do.

"Its an acronym for Random Omnipotent Being, or Bastard depending on how much of a jerk they are. I am leaning towards the Bastard at the moment."

"Well, I guess that settles some of the reasons why you appeared. If it is true." Taylor said walking towards the fridge. She pulled from it a sports drink and drained it.

"Hey, it is true. After all, I didn't pull myself here just to be hit in the head, covered in foam, and then kicked in the head."

Taylor gave me a look saying not to push it, so I did the smart thing and let it drop. However, that left a bunch of questions. I needed to figure out what I was going to do. At the moment I had no game plan, and no real timeline since my computer was fried. I think the disadvantage I picked for Taylor was biting me in the butt right now. I just hoped that I could at least have a week to prepare before the first domino falls.

"So the question now is, what's going to happen next?" I asked looking at Taylor. Although I could have sworn she was drinking something, yet her mask was still on.

"There are several options available to you." Taylor began with a sigh.

"The first is for you to sign up with the Protectorate. They can help set up a new life for you, but there would be a lot of strings attached. The next is for you to make a new life using your powers. If I remember correctly your Gamer power can allow you to make money. A few contacts can help set up a new ID for you if you have the money. The third is to go independent hero or rouge. I am sure you could join up with a group like New Wave or some other. The fourth is to fake being a Case 53. Someone whose power has deformed them and they gained amnesia."

"So a lot of options, but none of them seem to provide me with away back home. Also, I don't think I could live a quiet life if a ROB is involved. Since I don't know enough about wherever I ended up I think I going to make option five. Sticking with you Miss Night Watch."

"Hold up, what do you mean sticking with me?" Taylor asked her voice finally settling to her natural tone.

"Simple the ROB sent you the CYOA, or whatever, and I ended up here. I know more about ROBs then you so it means that he wants us to team up. I look forward to working with you, partner."

"Really?" The tone was like the ones I imagined Vista using for Clockblocker.

"Yep, the names Cid McConroy. Nice to meet ya." I stuck out my hand and grinned like a dufus I was. After all, it was who I am and I doubt anything will truly change that thanks to Gamer's Mind. So bring it on Worm.

"Fine, I am Night Watch, I hope you can keep up," Taylor said looking a little unpleased, but at least she shook my hand.

Article:

DING

Article:

Partnership created: Taylor Hebert/Night Watch is now your Partner.

Due to a certain action, a new tab is created: Allies.

Oh, goody new Gamer ability.

Last edited: Mar 25, 2019

Press Start: 3

1 Week Later

It has been a week since Taylor and I first became partners. Oh sorry Night Watch, since Taylor hadn't unmasked herself yet. For the most part, I spent that week increasing my skills to a needed level. My bow skill was now up to level eleven, and my blunt weapon skill was close to level thirteen. I even gained some new skills like Power Blow, Double Hit, Tornado Strike with my blunt weapon skills. My bow I gain only Focus Shot, and Double Shot. Pretty much they were the simple attack skills that added boosts to my damage.

Another skill I unlocked was called Cut. It was a skill created from my Mystic Eyes of Death Perception Perk. In an attack, I had the option of hitting one of the death lines easier. Only I needed to have a bladed weapon for it to work. Speaking of which I created the weapon proficiency skill for knives. Thanks to some hard work I leveled it to level ten and it was extremely overpowered with Death Perception activated.

Although those were good for combat, only they are nothing compared to the real jewel that is my crafting skill. It turns out that my crafting skill has a bunch of sub-skills in it. One of which was Leather crafting and that was a skill I picked up in Boy Scouts. It was something I spent a good amount of Taylor's leather to grind my skill level. It was all for the goal of leveling up to make me some armor.

It was kind of funny since I learned the needed blueprints on youtube. It wasn't like a skill book which I could pick up and learn. By watching some videos all the way through created some blueprints I could use. That started a day-long marathon of watching leatherworking videos. Combined with my leather work grinding I was able to increase the crafting skill up to level twenty. More than enough to make a fine set of studded leather armor. Taylor wasn't pleased until I promised I would make her a nice set of armor once I gained the level needed.

I even had a cape persona planned, taking an idea from Taylor. People on PHO had called her a Police Themed Cape. Mainly since she was seen helping the police and even her name was an old term for police who had the night shift. The Night Watch. That is why I made my armor stylized after an old British police dress uniform. Well, a steampunk version stained a navy blue. I even found some leftover cloth that Taylor used for her dark grey undersuit. Thus I did the thing that anyone with a fashion sense wouldn't do, make myself an undersuit.

All I was waiting for was Taylor to finish a bo-staff so I could go on a patrol. Once I had that I could go find an Instant Dungeon and start earning cash. It turns out my Instant Dungeon skill needed me to defeat certain enemies before it could make a dungeon based on them. I didn't have to create the skill, mainly since it was a staple ability of the Gamer. I think the R.O.B. gave it to me as a freebie. Either way, it was on the top priority of both mine and Taylor's list since it would be the source of income we needed.

Till then it left me trying to grind skills that I could and surfing Taylor's computer. However, right now I was laying on her couch that we dragged in from outside. I was bored, and hearing Taylor coming in I started to put on a show.

"Sooo Hungry." I moaned like the living dead. "Need food, wasting away."

A heavy bag hit me in the stomach as Taylor walked by. She had just returned from school and picked up some food for me since she didn't want me going out until she finished making me an ID.

"Instead of moaning, you should do something more productive," Taylor said her voice unmuffled with her lower mask pulled up. Per her normal routine, she set upon her work.

"I have been, but I can only grind for so long." I retorted back looking at the sandwich and soda she got me. "And unlike someone who goes to school, I am stuck here most of the day and night."

It was true since I only need to rest four hours before I would be good to go and have the rest of the twenty free. That meant I had a lot of time on my hands which I been spending most of it preparing to go out. It all depended on Taylor though since she was working on both things for my civilian and cape ID.

"I know you're bored Cid, but I can only work so fast," Taylor responded as she started to put on her tinkering clothes. Nothing more than gloves and a lab coat when she was working on her gear.

"I know Night Watch, but I can only do certain things for so long. I need to be out there if I want to learn more skills and gain experience." I said in between a bite of my sandwich. Taylor had the decency to avoid the ones with tomatoes on it.

"That is why I am giving you this today," Taylor said as she snapped something together.

She turned around holding in her hand the Bo-staff she had been working on. She designed it so that it could extend in that of a six-foot staff with taser tips. Also, it could turn into a knife if I really needed it to. It was one of the few pieces of gear she was working on for me. It was also the last one I needed before I could go out on patrol.

The gear she created was a bow like hers plus a dozen specialty arrows. The bow was also a grappling hook so I could swing through the streets like Batman… Once I learn the skill that is. She built a wrist computer that acted as a police scanner and GPS. Also a utility belt for her batman skills. Things that I would be able to learn once I got in the field. All I needed was my weapon/trump card.

"Why don't you suit up and give it a test run. The sooner you can unlock a dungeon the sooner we can get money to expedite your identification papers." Taylor said tossing the cylinder that fits perfectly in my hand.

A grin plastered on my face I caught the weapon and ran to my temporary housing in the base. I went through the process of putting on my gear and took a moment to look at myself in the mirror. I was glad for the Gamer's Body because one day of working out I lost all the fat I built up in my life. I did gain a small stat boost in vitality, dexterity, and strength. Just enough that all but vitality went up by one. Vitality went up by two making it a thirteen and added an additional twenty health points.

Once all was said and done I now looked like a steampunk policeman. My red hair was hidden behind British style police helmet. My bushy red beard wasn't and was displayed for all its glory. My blueish green eyes were hidden behind some goggles that Taylor had made. They had an optic system in them and had a face shield built in to hide my nose. Plus my large body frame made me look slightly intimidating, but mainly ridiculous. I loved it.

"Alright Night Watch, C.O.P. is heading out," I said heading for the door.

"I wish you would pick a better name," Taylor responded not even looking up from her work.

"Cape on patrol is an awesome name, and you know it," I shouted back as I closed the door.

I stood in the back of the warehouse looking up at the afternoon sun. It was close to four now, and I couldn't come back until it was after dark. Taylor had picked a good place for her base since there was a crane right above her warehouse. Using the crane she could zip into the darkness of the night without anyone seeing her. However in the day, she had to climb up the crane, and that meant I had too as well. Puffing my checks I set out to scale the mighty ladder.

Five minutes later I was at the top of the crane gasping for breath. Above me was a new notification screen telling me I gained a new skill. I glared at it since it was something that I went through hell and it was only for one level.

Article:

DING*

Article:

Due to a specific action, a new skill was created.

Climbing: Lv 1

Climbing speed increase by 3%

The road to success is filled with shoots and ladders. Now the user can ascend those ladders faster than the normal man.

"I hate you so much right now." I puffed out the words as I commanded those screens to close.

Standing up I looked at a nearby building a held out my collapsed bow. I waited for it to flash green in my visor before the grappling hook lunch out and it the building. Once the system was sure it was secure did the motor kick in. Then I was literally was pulled off the crane and was speeding towards the building.

"Ok, this is so freaking scary right now!" I scream as I was pulled toward the building with no control. It really was scary but Gamer's Mind left me the presence of mind to act if I had the skill to.

Ideally, I was meant to detach the grappling hook and shot it out again. However, I forgot that function and slammed into the side of the building. There was a flash of red as I saw five hit points drop. However, the motor was still pulling me and I was forced to run up the wall with it. Then it detached when I gained enough speed so that I would land on the roof of the building. Also, I landed flatly on my back, making a thump sound along with a new ding.

Article:

DING*

Article:

Due to a specific action, a new skill was created.

Grappling Hook Travel: Lv1

Travel Speed and Control increase by 3%

Like Batman or Spiderman, traveling across the side on a line is the way to go. The user can now travel across the city using a grappling hook.

At least my screw up was worth something. I now had the skill and with a little practice, I am sure I could avoid situations like this again. Although I hope that no one had recorded it. It would be embarrassing for that to be my cape debut. Getting up I looked around for the next building to use while hoping I wasn't seen. Once I found a target building I launched the grapple hook and began again. After all, I couldn't repeat that stunt so soon, so I should be safe.

About an hour of travel, I finally made it to my destination of the boardwalk. I wasn't sore anymore but my health was still regenerating after the disaster of getting here. I thought doing a faceplant on a wall was bad once, about seventeen more times in a row was the worst. Although the level I gained from my trip wasn't too bad. My Grappling Hook Travel skill was now up to level seven, and I even unlocked Parkour skill which is now up to three. However my Physical Constitution skill it went up five more times. It was like my power was rewarding me for being a real-life Looney Toons. I now had a newfound sympathy for Wile E. Coyote.

After taking a drink of water from my inventory I decided to take a look at my new Parkour skill. I didn't feel like using mental commands at the moment so I was being lazy. Using a flick of my wrist I brought up the menu and traveled over to my skill list. I pressed the new skill and pulled it up.

Article:

Parkour: Lv 3

Parkour Travel Speed increased by 9%. Parkour Path Lines show easy routes.

The ground was always limiting, however, wall, roofs, and other objects that can be scaled to have far more potential. The user now has a basic understanding of traveling using Parkour.

'Path Lines, huh,' I thought to myself. I wasn't expecting something like that. Mainly because Path Lines mean that I should see a path that would allow me to run a good parkour line. I wonder what hard and medium Path Lines might be like once I level up the skill and myself more. After all the Gamer potential was limitless.

"Hey stop it! Don't take my purse!" My thought was interrupted as I heard a scream below. Looking over the edge of the building I saw one of the main intersections of the boardwalk. There seemed to be trouble as a purse snatcher was trying to steal a purse. Looking around I tried to find a fast way down when a blue path showed me away.

"So that's a Path line," I said taking a running start along the same path as the thief. I felt myself stretch out as I grabbed a rod sticking out from the wall. I flung myself forward catching another before launching onto a garden awning. Running across it I leaped, aimed for a flagpole this time. I was making a good pace with the thief but that is also when someone noticed me.

"Hey look a Cape!"

The thief threw a look over his shoulder and tried to hurry. However, I wasn't going to have any of that. Lifting my folded bow with the grappling hook, I launched hook into the building as I jumped off. I had a pretty good line towards me and the thief as I jumped running across the building's wall. I ran across the surface moving downward towards the thief with each step on the red brick. Once I was in striking range I let the hook detached as I pulled my staff out. There was a hum and blue lights as I dropped on the thief.

The man dropped like a sack of potatoes as my staff hit is back. The taser end making him twitch from being struck. I pulled the staff back as I let my body roll into a ball for my landing. Then I was back on my feet like a spring with my staff pointing at his face.

"Move if you want another taser love tap," I said in a heroic pose, at least what I thought was heroic. That's also when I heard clapping.

"I give the landing a nine out of ten, although your pose can use some work, and you one-liner was decent."

Looking behind me I saw two of the local heroes. Assault and Dauntless. The switch in my mind activated Observation skill.

Article:

Name:????????

Alias: Assault

Organization: Protectorate

Level :????????

HP: 780

MP: 400

Article:

Name:????????

Alias: Dauntless

Organization: Protectorate

Level :????????

HP: 570

MP: 420

I feel the man I just tried to move so I tap him with the taser and look down at him.

"I told you not to move." Above him, his name appears since I am still using my Observation. I should feel slightly bad for this Latin America, but he did just try to steal a woman's purse. Being gentle and tasing him was the most humane thing that would happen to him. Not to mention if he had met any other cape in this city it wouldn't be as gentle.

Article:

Name: Maxwell Drake

Level 4

HP: 230/300

MP: 90/120

"Now be a good boy, and stay down Mister Drake," I said grabbing the purse he stole. I also notice a Notification window.

Article:

Ding*

Article:

Observation Leveled Up.

Observation is Level 10

The user can now Observe Objects and Gain Codex Knowledge.

Looking down at my hand I saw the Window for the Purse.

Article:

Simple Handbag

Owner: Heather Jackson

A simple handbag meant to hold the belongings of women. A common myth that they are black holes.

"Well, I didn't have time to pose in the mirror," I spoke to the heroes before me with a smile as I attached the purse to my belt to return later. "After all, I wasn't planning on stopping a crime when I was practicing my rooftop travel. It's on my list of things to learn. Right under brooding on the tops of buildings."

Assault's smile grew to match a cat's, apparently being my normal self, well almost normal self, was the way to get one of the heroes good sides. However, I heard Dauntless mutter about being another one. Well, I couldn't be everyone's good side now, can I?

Around both of them, I noticed windows explaining their costumes. It seemed that Dauntless Costume was unreadable as my power marked it with question marks. Assaults seemed to be a tailored order costume from a company called Dragon's Capes'R'us

"Good one," Assault smiled shaking his index finger at me. "I take it you're a hero that moved to town? Your costume is too good to be a recent addition."

My face took an approach of wanting to speak but couldn't. It was one of those were what they said is wrong and you're not sure on how to correct them.

"Eh, got my powers about a week ago and joined up with someone… Ugh, it hard to explain."

"Wait, you joined up with that loner Night Watch? How in the world did that happen?" Assault asked surprised and eager to hear a good tell. Although how did he guess Night Watch out of nowhere?

"Assault tone it down." Dauntless finally spoke up and moved past his patrol partner with his hand outstretched for an invitation to a handshake. "I'm Dauntless, do you have a cape name?"

"Ya," I said shaking the greek themed hero's hand. "You can call me C. O. P. COP since I am a Cape On Patrol."

I swear underneath his helmet Dauntless was frowning at the name. At least I didn't say the original meaning for the acronym, although I am sure Assault would love it even more. After all, he was trying to hold back his laughter.

"Out of my way!" I heard someone shout and I turn to see Maxwell Drake trying to make a run for it. In a fluid motion the bow I carried opened up and detached from my arm holster. Then grabbing both it and an arrow from my quiver I noticed my ammunition and let it fly. There was flash as the arrow hit the pavement and a batch of Night Watch's containment foam exploded. Mister Drake face planted as his feet were covered by the foam. Then behind me, I heard a whistle.

"Damn, are you sure you're her partner and not Night Watch's clone," Assault asked at my reaction speed.

I just grinned back at him as a lady and one of the Boardwalk's enforces appeared.

"I take it, you heroes have retrieved this ladies purse." The enforcer said as he approached respectfully. My window flashed as my Observation showed me some information on the two.

Article:

Name: Alex Masters

Alias: James Heart

Organization: Coil's Mercenaries

Level 11

HP: 350

MP: 200

Article:

Name: Rebecca Colls

Organization: E88

Level: 6

HP: 110

MP 160

I tried to keep the smile on my face as I handed back the purse. However, I knew something was up since Miss Colls was not Heather Jackson. I also noticed two notification, but I put those aside at the moment.

"Of course Mr. Heart," I said making an exaggerated effort to look at his nameplate. "I am sure the lady will be happy to get this purse back."

As I handed back the purse I slipped something into the bottom of the bag. Behind me I heard Assault mumble something to Dauntless, of course, they saw me, but I can explain in a little bit. Right now I wanted my base covered, and a tracking chip/bug was just that. I also heard another notification ding.

"Thank you." Miss Colls said. "I am glad 'Heroes' like you are keeping 'scum' like that off the street."

"Just happy to help ma'am," Assault said stepping up and resting an arm on my shoulder. "After all if we Heroes don't stop to help people then what good would we be."

However, he leaned in to whisper into my ear. "What did you put on her bag?"

"Not here on the rooftop," I whispered back before telling the Mr.Heart/Masters. "To get mister Drake feet out of the foam just spray it with water. It one of Night Watch's cheap o Containment Foam mixes."

"Will do that, but what you name for the record sir." Mr. Master/Heart asked.

"Oh, you can tell your 'Boss' the name is C.O.P. Cape On Patrol." I felt myself cringe internally as made a little too much play on Boss. I was pretty much saying that I knew who he worked for and placing me on Coil's map.

"Anyways I must be back on patrol. If you heroes wish to join me on a joint patrol I will be more than happy to meet you on the rooftop." Saying my piece I snapped my bow back into the grappling mode and reacted it to my arm holster. Then I shot a grappling hook to the roof and ran up the side of the building.

Once towards the center of the roof, I tapped my left arm which held my handheld computer. I used it to open a call to Taylor. I am sure that she would have the information I need. As the line ringed I took a look at my notifications.

Article:

Requirements meet for a new ID

ID Create: Purse Chase

Level 7 Monsters

A game of hide and seek. In the faceless masses are those that blend. They wait for the right time to strike. Wait for the snatch then chase them down in a game of cat and mouse.

Article:

New Quest Activated

The Missing Purse

Find out the story behind Heather Jackson Purse. Miss Rebecca Colls does not seem the trustworthy type having ties to Empire Eighty-Eight. There is a mystery to the purse and one that needs to be solved.

Quest Requirements.

Figure out what happened to Heather Jackson.

Bring to Justice those that have wronged her and return her purse.

Reward

1,000 Experience Points.

Reputation increase by 20.

500 Dollars.

Article:

Due to a specific action, a new skill was created.

Sleight of Hand Lv 1

Placing or taking something unnoticed success rate increases by 3%

A slight touch can cause a person's wallet to be misplaced. The user now has a basic understanding of sleight of hands.

Right after I finished glancing over my notices Taylor answered the phone.

'Night Watch here, what do you need COP?' Taylor sounded a little distracted like she was working on something.

"I need you to look up a person for me, a Heather Jackson and see if there is any kind of report of her."

'I can do that, just give me a moment.' Taylor answer sounded like was putting aside whatever she was working on.

"Ok, however, I going to put you on speaker since I am about to have company, and it will be easier to explain if they hear what you have to say."

'COP what did you do?' Her voice sounded exasperated.

"What any hero should do, catch the bad guys." Was all I said before turning to meet Dauntless as he landed on the roof.

"I take it you have a reason on wanting to talk up here," Dauntless asked his voice slightly on edge. He didn't trust me, after all, I did bug a purse of some lady.

"Yes, and I'll explain once Assault gets up here," I responded in a crisp tone. Right now I wasn't playing games, but trying to solve a mystery.

"Well, you better start because I am here," Assault said jumping up from the fire escape. "And you better make it good because putting tinker tech on a lady's purse is a big no, no."

"I can," I spoke trying to reassure the two heroes. "However let me explain what my powers are and what they can do. In layman's terms, I am the king of grab bag capes. I didn't take one I took the whole box."

I could see them trying to understand what that meant. I think in their minds they were classifying me differently. I didn't blame them since grab bag capes are really unpredictable. I just said that I was the king on top of being a grab bag.

"Another way to look at it is that I'm like both Dauntless here and Uber. Also maybe a little bit of a trump thrown in, not sure on that yet. Basically, I can learn anything or master anything. However, it starts off small and I must work to increase its power over time."

"It doesn't sound all that impressive," Dauntless said looking down at his gear. It was as if he was comparing me to him, but I don't think they get the full picture.

"Not at first," I spoke up trying to keep their attention on me. "But say I learn how to sprint like an Olympic athlete. At first, I run like a fat guy jogging, then a normal person jogging. Over time I could increase the power to run at a hundred miles an hour, two hundred, maybe three hundred. The point is I can increase the power of any skill I use over time."

Assault whistled sharply at my statement. "In time you can match Triumvirate levels. However, it doesn't explain why you tagged the purse with tinker tech."

"I tell you why just this next part turn of your radios. I want it to be word of mouth only and not on any paperwork. If this gets out it will be my death warrant in the cape community."

Wordless the two looked at each other. Assault gave a small nod and opened up his radio with Protectorate HQ.

"Console, this is Assault. Dauntless and I are going to switch off our Radios for a bit. COP is willing to share some information about his powers but wants it to be under tight lips."

Without waiting for a response he and Dauntless switched off their Radios hidden in their helmets. They gave me a nod for asking me to continue. Since they were giving me the benefit of doubt I was going to tell them about my Observation skill.

"One of the skills I am powering is called Observation. It allows me to see some information about a person. Like their name, their alias, who they work for, how powerful they are, and if I could take them on in a fight."

I could see them tense up. I just admitted that I could see the names of Capes. In a way, I could bypass the unwritten rules, and see who they are under the mask. It was a reason I wanted this to stay between as few people as possible. If it got out capes would assume that I would out them, and thus they wouldn't hold back with me.

"Relax, at the moment I can't see anything but your cape names. In fact, you two are farther above me so all I can see is what I already know. Your cape names, and that you work for the Protectorate. However, that isn't the only thing it can do. I just gained the ability to learn information about objects. For example Assault, your armor is a custom order from Dragon's Capes'R'Us."

Dauntless looked over to his fellow hero and spoke.

"I thought Armsmaster denied your request for new armor, stating that you're old was just as good."

"Hahaha, I am sure you misheard Dauntless, like this Saturday having console duty. After all, it was me that was assigned." Assault said in a nervous laugh.

"I am sure you're right, I don't have it this Saturday. I also don't have a patrol of the trainyards next Wednesday either." Dauntless said his voice sounding innocent.

"Fine, but don't tell anyone about my suit," Assault said a little grudgingly.

"Deal."

Then the two turned their attention back to me once the blackmail was complete.

"Ok, you know something that I worked hard to keep Halbeard from finding out. Now spill what was up with the bag that you felt the need to tag it."

"The purse was a belonging of a person name Heather Jackson. The woman carrying was not Ms. Jackson. Her name was Rebecca Colls, and somehow she is involved with Empire Eighty-Eight."

"Ok, then who is Heather Jackson?" Assault asked starting to see the reason I did it.

"I am not sure, but I am about to find out. Do you have anything Night Watch?"

Both Dauntless and Assault looked around before Taylor's voice appeared from my wrist computer.

'Heather Jackson is a twenty-five-year-old woman working as a clerk in a small gas station. However six weeks ago she and eleven others were grabbed for an Empire recruitment test. All were beaten to an inch of their lives. Three dead before the police and ambulances arrived. Another died in route to the hospital and the rest including Miss Jackson, are in comas.'

'All of the people responsible are still at large due to the case being handed to the PRT. At the time there was a confirmed presence of three Empire capes. One of the victims was barely awake at the time of rescue and was able to inform law enforcement. One of the main reasons for the lack of arrests was that the victims were moved from the original crime scene so no evidence could be found. There are a few samples of DNA take from the nails of the victims but it was only enough to identify two attackers.'

'Basicly the case is on its way to being cold if there is no new evidence soon. It seems that the Parahuman were there to ensure that it goes to the PRT since they are overworked with cases already. If the PRT would branch out and work with the police force they could make some headway. However, neither organization is willing to work with the other unless the other is willing to give up the lead.'

"Thankfully I gained some headway Night Watch," I said once I was sure she was done. "I found Miss Jackson's purse, it was in the possession of one Rebecca Colls. Colls spelled C, O, L, L, S. I put a tracker on her right now, however, she didn't seem the Empire type so do you think you can look into her?"

'I can do that, but you look in on your end C.O.P. You started this so you can finish it and maybe create and increase your detective skill why you are at it.'

Pretty much clean up your mess. Having said her peace, she cut out the call. Her Night Watch personality was very forceful sometimes. I guess it was her channeling her inner Batman.

"So do you two want to help solve a case before it goes cold. It will help beat any boredom you have." I said with a smile brushing off what happened earlier like it was nothing.

"Just give me a sec to check in with Console, ok," Assault said breaking away from earshot.

"You're hiding something about your powers, aren't you," Dauntless asked trying to keep me occupied. More than likely to gain more information and to keep me from hearing Assault. Damn these guys were good, even better than the original story let on.

"Of course I am, I just gave you what one of my powers do, which is pretty much me stealing the grab bag box. I have another power, however, it is not important, and I hope that I never have to use it in a fight."

It was true since my Death Eyes could easily kill anyone I hit. If I had to use it in a fight it meant that I was willing to kill someone. An exception to that is Endbringer battles, however, I am pretty sure no one will ever look forward to it. I could tell by the way Dauntless held his head he was taking note of my answer.

"Night Watch said that this could give you a chance to create and increase your detective skill. Can you explain what she meant by that?"

"I would prefer not too but, since I might be working with you guys again I might as well throw you a bone. I call it the Gamer, and it pretty much means that I now have the abilities of a video game character."

"And that means what?"

I gave a sigh, Dauntless wasn't going to let it go with such a simple explanation.

"After sleeping for four hours I am completely healed. I can store stuff in an inventory or hammerspace if you like. By doing a certain action I can create a skill, and by continued use, I can increase its effectiveness. I could increase my own power giving me a brute, mover, or thinker rating without any use of skills. In simple words, I can do just about anything, and take it to a godly level. If I have the time that is."

"I see and you are certain there is no upper limit?"

"As far as I know there is none," I answered with a shrug. I was pretty sure that my rating at PRT was now going to be put as 'Yes' from how bullcrap my power was.

From there Dauntless asked me mundane questions about my powers. Hypothetical situations concerning my power and to most of them the answer were just yes. Then he also tried to get information about my second power. Something that I was keeping my lips shut on. The last thing I needed was for PRT, and through them, Caldron to learn about my ability. I just keep saying it was not something I would use lightly against another person.

"Alright, I just got word from Console that we will help with the investigation. They said that we need to be careful since we are dealing with civilians instead of capes." Assault said as he walked back to us with a grin in his voice

Then we were off traveling across the town via the rooftops. Assault being carried by Dauntless and me jumping and swinging across town. It took about thirty minutes but we did arrive at Miss Colls's apartment building. It was on the edge of Empire territory and where people would say the gangs don't exist. We found a nice rooftop to watch from as I activated the chip I put on her purse.

"You're saying that your tracker is also a mini robot!" Assault said with excitement in his voice.

"Yes, Night Watch gave me a few to use. She uses them while scouting out warehouses for possible drugs or weapons." I said with my wrist computer acting like a monitor for us to watch the robots progress. Ignored another skill which was Robot Operating as I focused on what was in the apartment. I had my observation skill on looking at items trying to find more evidence.

"Why aren't you starting with the living room?" Assault asked as I guided the mini-bot towards Miss Colls's bedroom.

"Because I already did. Apparently, my observation skill tells me if there might be anything suspicious. Also, who would hide evidence in an open place like the living room?"

"The sneaky ones," Assault said his humor returned in force.

I ignored him and directed the robot towards the bedroom of the apartment. Being a small robot you would think it would move slower, but this was pretty fast. Once it reached the dark bedroom I had it spin so I could get a look at the room with my observation. That is when I spotted the closet and inside it was a box label suspicious by my power. Moving the bug I had it six stubby legs climb up the door till it could reach the box and enter in through the hand whole.

I whistled once the bug made it inside the box and the night vision kicked in. On the inside was a uniform that my power informed me was formal wear for the lieutenants of Empire Eighty-Eight. There was some other stuff, a murder weapon, an incriminating ledger, and a few other items that would be an investigator wet dream.

"What did you find?" Assault asked looking over my shoulder at the screen.

"Just a little thing, known as evidence. " I said letting the bug bury itself in the uniform for later.

"I think…"

Article:

BEEP* *WARNING* *BEEP*

I shut up and pushed Assault and Dauntless to the side as something hit where we were a moment ago. They didn't question why I pushed them, but instead, let whatever training they had kicked in. All three of us scrambled to cover along different points on the roof. Looking over the ducts in the roof I saw four people moving towards use on a platform made from the street. I knew who they were and I felt a groan. Of course, the capes of Empire Eighty-Eight would show up.

The twins in valkyrie esk armor and covered in steel wings were Menja and Fenja. They were Kaiser's bodyguards slash accessories. They were meant to stay by his side and look pretty while they smash the face in anyone that gets in way of the Leader of Empire Eighty-Eight. I couldn't see there faces since they were both covered by a thick plate of metal. Although I could tell they were blond from their long hair that was braid out the back of their costumes. If that wasn't intimidating enough they could also grow to sixty feet tall to smash a person face in.

The next was a young girl wearing a black and red robe that covered her from head to toe. Next to her was a pile of stones, most likely her ammunition as her power only lets her control two objects at a time. She can control more, but it sacrifices her own body control. However, she wasn't limited by weight and if she put her mind to it she would be very dangerous. Thank you PRT files for giving me that threat assessment

The last, and most likely the one who attacked us was Stormtiger. The man had no sense of style as he wore only a baggy pair of pants and chains that wrapped around his body. The only costume ish thing he wore was a white tiger mask, but honestly, it made the man look like a luchador. Given that the man was once a pit fighter, I think that was the point.

As the platform came close to our rooftop, I could see Stormtiger jump off a float towards our roof. I knew he could do that because of his PRT file that Taylor had 'copied,' but it was not the same thing to see it in life. Of course, he was also looking right at me as he gathered wind into his claws made of wind.

"The honor of baptizing the new blood in combat goes to me!" He shouted as he launched a blade of wind making me duck behind my air vent.

Looking over I saw Assault being hit by a sizeable stone which caused him to be pushed off the roof. If it wasn't for his power I would have been worried about the man. I couldn't see Dauntless but if I had to guess the twins were fighting him. That left me at a standstill with the one person who can counter my only viable attack.

"Great, and I get to fight the overgrown pussycat," I said with overflowing sarcasm as I took out my bow and notched it with an arrow.

"You have pretty good humor for new blood." Stormtiger boasted. "Let see how it keep once I leave you bloody from…"

Of course, I didn't let him finish as I vaulted over the air vent and launch an arrow at the guy. I have a feeling he would just deflect it, but it would give me the seconds I needed to sprint over to some better cover. It was also funny, get a guy monologuing and they would have a slow reaction time. Stormtiger seemed to blink before he used a charge of his wind to blast the arrow back to the roof.

"Ha, is that all you have?" Stormtiger laughed at my attempt, although I wanted to laugh with my reply.

"Badguysay, tick, tick, boom."

"Tick tick boom?" Below Stormtiger my arrow replied as well with flashbang going off blinding the big bad tiger.

I would have to thank Taylor later since my goggles also had ear protection. So the loud flash bang didn't hurt my ears from the marvelous tinker tech in my costume. Also, the sturdy cover allowed me to avoid feeling the concussion wave.

I smiled as I went running out to find a new position so I could rain on his day. I was about to break cover when my danger warning gave me a heads up with the notable Beep. I threw myself into the brick structure I was using as cover. In front of me, a wind blade hit where I was about to be.

"You damn Leprechaun," Stormtiger shouted with a slight distortion to his voice. I couldn't tell but he must be rubbing his eyes trying to see again. I wanted to confirm, but the wind blades hitting everywhere around made me a little wary.

I felt frustrated, mainly because Stormtiger could still get a bead on me. How did he know I was about to run out, I mean he was blinded and made him deaf. I keep running the reason through my mind on how he could know I was here when a memory of the original story came through. Stormtiger was able to target Grue, and Taylor while being shrouded in Grue shadow. He was blinded then, but he still could hear and smell… Of course, Stormtiger could sniff out my position and now he was barraging where I was taking cover till he could see again. I think it was something due to drawing the air in to enhance his scenes.

I could work with that, I had an idea I just need to figure out how to implement it now. Only I couldn't figure out a plan as my warning system kicked in again with another beep. I tried to throw myself to the ground, but I was sent flying back as something exploded my cover. I saw my vision flash red.

Article:

-148 HP

HP: 32/180

Damage was insane. There was no way I could fight that. I blinked as I pulled up observation looking at Stormtiger. Something I should have done when the first showed up. A note for next time.

Article:

Name:????????

Allies: Stormtiger

Organization: Empire Eighty-Eight

Level:????????

HP: 800/800

MP: 4760/5000

Crap, crap, crap! Fudgin monkey paws! Stormtiger was way, way, out of my league. If I get hit by anything more I would die, and now I didn't have the option of cover since he would just blow it up. I stood up to face Stormtiger, my clothes covered in dust from the explosion. I also looked to have scraps and blood stains as well. Before I when I got hurt I showed no damage. Although this was the first time I was in the red. I grabbed my weapon handle from its holster and with a flick of the wrist, a blade shot out. To think, I had to use my trump card in my first fight.

I saw the world separate as I activated my Eyes of Death Perception. I didn't know why, but when I activated my eyes I could see the world disassemble itself. It was disconcerting seeing it happen to a person as they were disassembled, as I could see their inner organs. If I wanted to survive I would have to draw Stormtiger into close quarter combat. I didn't like the idea but I would have to cut off one of his arms. As the world came back together I saw line floating next to Stormtiger.

I smiled because now I had a new option. I could kill Stormtiger's attacks. As I stood I activated the skill EDP Cut. My knife flashed as I wiped it forward cutting through the wind blade coming for me. My knife slide through the death line and the air in front of me became still.

Article:

EDP Cut Lv 3

Cost: 5 MP

Using cut will increase the accuracy of 75% in hitting Death Line.

Life and death hang by a string. In the user's case quite literally. Hitting the string is hard but with the right cut, it will be hit each time.

Article:

Cut,

Cut,

Cut,

Cut.

After five Cut I glanced at my MP which sat at 133 points. That meant I could do maybe do another twenty-six or fewer cuts before I ran out of MP. My regain rate was about one point every five minutes. That meant could hold EPD of for three hundred and ninety-nine minutes, but it was without using any active skills. I need to increase my MP recovery rate.

"It seems we are at an impasse, for either of our range attacks have any effect," I said with a smile and a jovial tone.

It must have enraged Stormtiger since he launched a sphere of wind hurtling towards me. I felt my body move in an almost third person manner as I switched my knife to reverse grip. With a dramatic flair, I swung the knife upwards. Cut. I thought of the skill with a mental command forcing the knife to cut through the sphere lines. Then again the wind around me felt dead as I cut through the parahuman power. Something I was going to use more often now since it negated enemies ranged powers.

"If that is the case close quarter it is," Stormtiger said with a voice that could be translated as a savage grin. "I was going to go easy on you, but beating you to a pulp will be more fun for me."

As Stormtiger dropped to the ground I fidgeted with the gadgets on my utility belt. I always wonder how Batman made so many things fit into a small belt. Since Taylor tech was close to Batman's I figured the man was a more economical version of Armsmaster. The smoke pellets could be modified on the fly to include things like itching powder, UV tracking powder, and now my new personal favorite knock-out gas.

Like Honey Lemon from Big Hero Six, my belt mixed the chemical for the smoke pellets before ejecting them into my waiting hand. I also keep Stormtiger from seeing this by taking a stance of a fencer. My knife in my right-hand tip pointed high at Stormtiger, and my left hand was hover underneath the utility belt capsule for the pellets to finish. My feet spread to allow me quick motions of jumping back and forth.

It had been years since I took fencing, but my skill in fencing didn't let me forget the stance. I also thought I would never use it in combat, well the world is full of surprises. My stance is the sportified version of swordplay caused the pit fighter to laugh. True it was a played up form of archaic combat, but with my powers, it could be even more deadly than the original.

"Why are you laughing Stormtiger?" I asked stalling for time on the rooftop littered with debris. "I thought your circle applauded the use of old forms of combat. Or is it the lack of a proper Sabre to complement the style of fencing?"

"I commend you on doing your homework new blood," Stormtiger said letting out a malicious chuckle. "Only I can see the amateur nature in your footing. Although I will give you the respect deserving of someone that uses the old forms of combat."

That was when he charged me with his hands covered in wind blades. Thankfully my utility belt thought that was the perfect time to dispense the pellets. I swear my power like the drama of treating me as a cartoon character. I threw the pellets immediately on the ground and took a deep breath through my nose. I didn't want to give Stormtiger any warning on what was about to happen.

A cloud of smoke rushed out from my feet as I moved to the side. I was planning on using my danger scene to avoid the burly pit fighter when an infrared vision popped up on my goggles. That was a surprise, how many features did Taylor pack in with such a short amount of funds? I saw Stormtiger stumble slightly from the smoke before he adjusted and lunged at me. It wouldn't take long for Stormtiger to pass out, normal twenty-second was the life of the cloud, and it took ten for the sedative to knock a normal man out.

We danced in a deadly combo of me deflecting the blows while Stormtiger tried to hit me. I had the advantage from sight, but Stormtiger had experiences and that was enough to force me back. About eight seconds in Stormtiger faltered and flew to his knees with a curse. He blew the cloud away with a burst of wind as he cursed a slur of names fitting my Irish heritage. I didn't blame him, but I was fighting to live, and I could easily be killed if my health reaches zero HP. All the power in the world won't save me if that reached zero.

"You cheated," Stormtiger growled falling face first on the gravel roof.

"No, I fought like any battle, using any means to survive and win," I replied panting slightly as I looked at my HP and MP.

Article:

HP: 33/160

MP: 128/160

Good, I recovered one health already. I guess the ridicule of Physical Constitution was worth the small increase I gained of health regen. That would count for every second in this world, and I would need every advantage I could get. I was about to head out to see what help I could give to Assault and Dauntless when Stormtiger spoke again. How much persistence did this guy have?

"I didn't stand a chance did I?" He asked with a weak yet rueful laugh.

I bite my lip, did I really want to reveal this? I mean he was my enemy so why give him information, but somehow I felt bad for him at this moment.

"You pushed me you use my trump card. Once I used it you had no hope of winning. The cheap trick I used to win was less about me winning and more about me not having to kill you."

"You sound like you have an instant win that you don't want to use." I heard him laugh this time, a pure laugh of mirth.

"It true what they say, heroes don't want to go the extra mile if means taking a life."

"Your right Stormtiger, only my trump card is something that shouldn't be used on people. I bet Jack Slash himself would applaud the kind of death my power can bring if I didn't hold back."

I was pissed at the comment Stormtiger made. The comment about taking a life being easy showed how much his shard screwed with his brain. I was starting to hate shards now, the link that gave humans powers. All to drive conflict and force them to grow and develop in a way their owner could never think of. That's right the golden idiot didn't have the creativity to grow and that gave humans an edge.

I sheathed my blade back into the handle of my taser staff. I was liking the dirk. It had a decent length to it at around about a foot and a half for the blade. It also had a good look from the small black handle with a glowing blue line showing the magnet lock was active.

Looking down I pulled up my observation skill. I was making sure that Stormtiger was passed out. The information floated above Stormtiger head give me the needed information.

Article:

Name:????????

Allies: Stormtiger

Organization: Empire Eighty-Eight

Level:????????

HP: 800/800

MP: 4629/5000

Status Effect: Sleep.

With Stormtiger out of the game, I could support Assault and Dauntless now. I stashed the handle of my weapon on my belt before I ran to the edge of the roof, a parkour line showing me a possible way to see the parking lot Assault had disappeared into. However, I stayed at the roof accessing my arrow customizing options. I set the arrow order and within a second the arrow had appeared sticking above in the quiver in my back.

Down below, Rune was staying just out of Assault's reach. She had been peppering him with some of her stones, using them as homing missiles until they broke against the hero's armor. However, right now she had reached a car and was using it to bat Assault around like a doll. I winced as he was sent flying again, but still ok because of his power-absorbing the kinetic impacts.

I pulled the custom arrow from my quiver and drew it tight on the bowstring. Taking a deep breath I looked down the sight aiming it with the moving Rune. I felt my vision clear as the goggles zoomed in on the teenage villain as I tracked her.

Article:

Focus Shot: Lv 5

Cost: Passive.

By focusing on a target from more than five seconds will increase the accuracy of the shot by 50%.

They say Robinhood was the greatest archer in the world. The only thing separating him and other archers was the focus. Something the user now has.

I had a mental timer in my head as I tracked Rune. It felt like an eternity as I watched. Assault had must've gotten back up since she was moving a little faster. I needed her to slow down since even with increase accuracy didn't mean a sure-fire hit. It took another ten seconds before she slowed so she could touch another car as ammunition. I took the shot.

There must have been a slight whistling sound as the arrow was well on its way to Rune. It the only explanation for why she looked up at me. However, it had been surprised since she barely had a chance to react other than turning her head to see me. The arrow struck like the hand of God. She was forced to fall on to her back as the arrow stuck up in the air on her shoulder. She was starting to move to pull at the arrow when a small cloud of gas came from the arrow that was grabbing on to her shoulder.

I watched as the platform the girl ride on faltered as it wobbles in the air. Then it fell and smashed the car the girl was going to pick up. I looked down at the crimson armored hero and shouted.

"Don't just stand there, get her off that platform. There is a chance the car can blow up."

Assault looked at me then Rune before running towards Rune to make sure the girl was ok. Once Assault was on it I looked around for Dauntless. I didn't see hide nor hair of the Spartan hero. I guess he was forced to a different area fighting the twins. Letting out a sigh I walked over to Stormtiger so I could secure the former pit fighter.

I pulled a cylinder off my belt and flicked the top open to reveal a spray nozzle. I am sure Taylor could build something a little less clunky. Only she would need money something that neither of us had, at least for now. Taking the can I sprayed a layer of Taylor's cheapo form around Stormtiger's head. Then I rolled him over and sprayed his hand together behind his back. I didn't know if it would affect on his powers much but at least he wouldn't be able to see or smell.

I after I secured the villain I pushed him to a more comfortable position and looked down at the ground. On the ground, I saw two things, a book, and a stack of cash. Oh god, I love my power right now. Looking at the stack it was filled with hundred dollar bills. Once more it was a stack of fifty denomination bills. Not waiting I pulled up my inventory and stuck the bills in depositing it as fruits of my boss battle. I picked up the book going to look at it with observation when Assault showed up.

"Not bad you took down two villains in your first fight. I would say that you're having good luck…"

I turned back to the hero who was holding the teenage villain Rune. He looked like he wanted to say several things but it seems like his mind was trying to catch up with him. If I had to guess it was from my appearance, the secured Stormtiger, and the fact I was holding something that looked like a comic book. I put the book down and reached my hand into my inventory screen and pulled out two bottled waters, and a bag I label as emergency Tacos. I held up the water with my hand as I sat down giving the hero a smile.

"Thirsty?" When Assault dumbly nodded I tossed the bottle to him before opening the bottle taking a drink of it myself. I felt an easiness flow over me and I felt my MP, slowly restoring as I drank the cool liquid.

The hero walked up beside me and deposit Rune next to her fellow gang villain. Then he stood before me looking at me with a critical eye. At least I assumed it was a critical eye, it was kind of hard to tell behind his armor head.

"First question. Are you alright? Because you look like you need to be evac to a hospital. Two, what did you put on the pussycat over there? Three can the arrow in Rune shoulder be safely removed?"

"One, yes I am fine and will be fine if given a good night's sleep or lots of food," I said taking a taco from the bag and began eating it. I knew once it was gone I would have five more points to heath. Two tacos meant a total of bumping me up to yellows.

"Two I found out Stormtiger can use his nose, while being deaf and blind so I took away that facet of his power. The foam on his hand is to keep him from launching those blades of his. It's Night Watch's cheapo blend that dissolves with water.

Three, the arrow didn't even penetrate the skin, at least I think it didn't. You can never now with projectiles. Anyway just splash some water on it. The charge that is keeping the arrow in place should dissipate then. Or you can use the switch hidden on the fletching."

I ate the taco at a fast pace, I wanted those ten points of health. Funny thing though I never felt hungry anymore. Gamer body was interesting that was for sure, I still ate because food tastes good, and it was a habit. I looked over at Assault since he looked like he wanted to ask me something.

"Yes?" Assault went to open his mouth, however, a short burst of sound from Rune and Stormtiger stop that idea. I jumped to my feet half-eaten taco held in my mouth and my weapon handle in my hand. Although that reaction made Assault laugh.

"Don't worry, that just the phones telling them to pull back. Most Empire cape fights follow that framework. Distract with a fight, then retreat." Assault said reassuringly.

Hearing that I gave a sigh and flopped back down storing my handle and taking my taco out of my mouth. I didn't know the routine of fighting yet so I wouldn't know about the empire hit and run tactic. Worm never mentioned how they fought under Kaiser leadership, and the only fights others were when they on a warpath because of Coil. Although it was good to learn, I didn't know the path that the world was taking. I almost wished I could get Contessa power just so I wasn't flying blind.

I continued to eat my taco savoring those ten hit points when Assault spoke up. Although I not one to almost choke on my food when something surprises me but this was a rare exception.

"So I take it you're a Case Fifty-Three? Not many of you have almost human-like features. Although I don't blame you for hiding your eyes. They are almost disconcerting with that blue and red glow."

I coughed and felt some food get caught in my throat. I quickly stuck my hand in my inventory screen that was still open and pulled out a third water bottle. I drained the liquid lifesaver and it washed down the taco that decided it was a good time to get caught in my throat. I spurted as Assault came to pat me on the back. An appreciated, but pointless gesture.

"Easy there, I did mean to surprise you."

"You can see my eyes?" I asked in surprise and scrambled for a mirror. Utility belt that was based on Batman so it had everything. Sure enough, I could see a missing piece of glass that showed my eyes. Although from my point of view the goggles weren't missing the glass. I could only think of the battle damage visual. You still had everything working order perfectly, but it just looks beat up.

"Ya, is that a problem?" Assault asked, slightly confused at the situation.

"In some ways, it is," I said letting the power of death perception fade. "Let just say it a card I don't like to use if I don't have to."

"And it just faded?" Assault said looking at me like I was an oddity. "So are you a Case Fifty-Three?"

I just gave him a knowing smirk. After all, it was good to keep them guessing. By them, I meant the PRT and by extension Cauldron. I already let slip to many of my abilities today, but I am sure I'll gain new ones.

Last edited: Mar 29, 2019

Press Start: 4

"Ah come on man you can't just give me a smirk," Assault said looking at me. I could tell that he wasn't happy with me clamming up about my ability. "You have to give me something."

"Well do you want to see me learn a new ability?" I asked changing the subject and taking the last bite of my taco.

"Like what? Another of those skills you told us about?"

"Something like that," I spoke after swallowing the last bite. I stood up and held in my hand the comic book.

"Is that a comic book?" Assault asked looking at the item I held.

Unlike other books I have seen, this comic book was dropped by me defeating Stormtiger. It cover was nothing much other than the old red and yellow cover of comics. In the center was a grayed out man with two attacks rushing towards the cover as if to escape the page. The title was simple, wind blades.

I held the book up and looked for a box to see the requirements. Only there was nothing and a frown developed on my face. I heard comment and ask if everything was alright but I ignored him for the moment by waving him off. I kept looking for the indication for the box, and then I noticed the flashing in the corner of my eyes.

"Oh, no wonder I couldn't see the box I had set my hud to battle mode," I said with a laugh even though I had did no such thing.

I guess my power decided to keep only important information in my vision during my fight. I wonder if I did it subconsciously? It would make perfect sense since I wouldn't want a pop up telling me something when I was fighting for my life. I thought of menu and already pop-ups started to cloud my vision. It even made me fall back with how many there was.

"Are you alright?" Assault asked after seeing me fall.

"Ya, you know what happens when you hide a bunch of tabs on a computer and suddenly they pop up at once?"

"Yes, that kind of annoying when you are trying to do some work."

"Well, that happened just now with me. Sometimes my power makes no sense."

I quickly scanned over the pop-ups taking in the information.

Article:

Ding*

Skills Level Up

Physical Constitution: Level 12

EDP Cut: Level 5

Robotic Operations: Lv 2

New Skill Creations:

Article:

Canceling Slash: Lv 1

Cost: 40 MP

Negating Powers of Range Abilities.

If the beat of a butterfly's wing can cause a storm, what can be said with the slash of a blade? Using this skill, the User can cancel out attacks of an empowered long range attacker.

Do you Wish to use Skill Book?

Yes, or No?

Ah, there it was. The window I was looking for, but before I thought yes I look at the last two.

Article:

Quest Complete

E88: Ambushed

Quest Requirements:

Survive the Ambush.

Reward:

10,000 Experience Points.

Reputation Increase by 50.

500 Dollars.

Bonus Objective

Capture Enemy Capes.

10,000 Experience Points Per Cape.

Reputation Increased by 500 Per Cape.

5,000 Dollars Per Cape.

Article:

Level Up,

State points 10

MP 10

Article:

Level Up,

State points 10

MP 10

Article:

Level Up,

State points 10

MP 10

My breath hitched. I had leveled up three times from that battle. Not only that but now I had money to really finance me and Taylor. Over fifteen thousand if I include the five thousand from Stormtiger dropped himself. I wasn't sure what that meant in the long run, but for now, it meant papers forged and an increased of materials for both Taylor and me.

I closed all the windows apart from the skill book and gave Assault a grin. I tapped the window with my hand for flair and felt the book disappear in my hand. Around me, a glow formed and I saw a new window pop up.

Article:

Ding*

Article:

New Skill Learn:

Wind Blades: Lv 2

Cost: 5 MP

Wind blades deal 40 damage. Note: Cannot be used in conjunction with EDP.

In Japanese lore, there was a sword that calls the wind. Now the blade has been lost to history, but its power still walks the earth. The user can call upon the wind to cut their foes.

"Cop? What was that just now?" Assault was worried by the glow of my body. I didn't blame the man, after all, I didn't warn him what to expect. To be fair I didn't either but it was well worth it.

"Simple me getting a new skill." I held my arm in front of me with the hand flat. I felt the wind swirling around my hand and my eyes spot a brick in front of me. "Watch that brick in front of me."

"What the full one?" Assault asked still unsure what was going on.

"No the one the broken in half," I said line up my hand with the broken brick. Then a flick of my wrist I sent the blade flying through the air. The blade struck the ground next to the brick and a puff of dust flew into the air. However, there was slight scarring in the roof from where the wind blade hit. I was grinning like a kid even though I missed; although it didn't matter because I had a new ability.

"Was that?" Assault asked looking at the puff of dust.

"Yep."

"How?"

"I guess you can say it's the perk of defeating a boss," I said with a smile.

"No seriously, you made a comic book disappear now you can make wind blades like Stormtiger?" Assault asked trying to make sense of the situation. I had a feeling he was getting ready to call bull crap on the situation.

"You never heard of skill books in games before?"

"Yes I have heard about skill books before, but this isn't a game."

"Maybe to you, but my power would like to argue otherwise." I almost said shard, but I wasn't even sure if I had one.

"In other words, you can defeat parahumans and copy their powers because of bull crap."

"That is what it seems like yes," I said with a nod and a smile. "Although boss drops are always random."

I heard Assault groan and mumble under his breath. More than likely it was something to do with Über and L33t. I am sure they said something like this before only this time it was with a hero. Having a power all about being a video game character is something that people don't understand how broken it was until they have it happen to them. Heck, I still learning how broken it was.

Just then a grappling hook hit the roof and shortly followed after was Taylor doing a flip onto the building. I could tell she was angry about something because like Batman her mask copied her glare. She looked at Assault before her eyes settled on me. I could have sworn the older hero shuffled back.

"You alright?" She asked in that gravel voice, something I tried to get her to stop.

"To be honest, I am not, but earlier pussycat over put me into the red with one hit," I said with all honesty.

"Is that why you pulled out your knife?" I could already tell where this was going. Like Batman, Taylor had the rule of no killing. I guess she set up an alert if I pulled out my knife.

I stood up to bring my full height as I moved to look my partner in the eyes. I can understand her reason, but I was her partner so she needs to trust me more.

"Yes. That is why I pulled out my knife Night Watch. It moving too fast and I was by myself. I made a decision and thankfully a new opinion opened for me, so it ended without permanent injury or death for both parties."

I glared back at Taylor holding my ground. Between the two of us I was the adult, and despite how she acted Taylor was still a teenager. I knew my actions better than she did. If needed I would go the extra step if it meant my survival or the survival of another. Only as last resort and one Taylor will have to learn to live with if we would continue to be partners.

"What if there weren't any new options would you have kil…"

"Enough Night Watch," I said ending her sentence. She added extra death to her glare in response. "We can't always deal with ifs. Life happens and we have to deal with it to the best of our abilities. If you want to talk about this more, let it be back at base."

I tilted my head a little bit towards the right. I saw Taylor glances over and see Assault, and understand what I was meaning. Let's not talk about this in front of the hero. As if perfect timing Dauntless as joined up. He looked a little roughed up, but I could tell he was good. Apparently, the twins are a hard fight.

"A PRT Pick Up team is about five minutes out," Dauntless said as he came to landing on the roof. "Night Watch I am surprised to see you here."

"My partner's gear was activated in a combat situation so I hurried over," Taylor said, leaving out the mention of making sure that I didn't kill anyone.

"And that means you can stay here with Assault and watch over Rune, and Stormtiger," I added as I pulled up my wrist computer screen as I looked at the information confirming what I thought was going on.

"Excuse me?" Taylor asked looking at me with another glare.

"Well, Dauntless and I are the best suited to go after Ms. Colls," I said nonchalantly as I fixed the tracker on to the hud in my goggles.

"I think it would be best if we stayed here and guard Rune and Stormtiger," Dauntless added looking toward the bound villains.

"And let Ms. Colls get away with disposing of the evidence." I shook my head. "No that won't do, after all, if that happens then the ambush onus would be a success."

I could see that in Assaults body movement he wanted to speak up. I wasn't sure what he was going to say before Dauntless spoke and blew my mind. Especially concerning what he said before, it didn't match his previous statement.

"Damn it all, you're right." I could hear the frustration in his voice. "This is the time we actually have a chance to put a dent into the Empire. Although there is a red tape issue of taking evidence off of a civilian when no known parahuman is involved. Do you have a plan to counteract that?"

I guess that what caused the frustration. The Protectorate was caught behind the red tape that dealt with Parahuman, and normal crimes. I wasn't sure before, but it seems they are caught behind the smoke and mirror of being a hero. If I had to guess the reason they weren't able to clean up the bay is because of that organization putting its foot down.

"Why yes I do, in fact, you will find it so simple that you would almost laugh." I gave Dauntless my most charming smile. "Now you feel like giving the Empire a sucker punch?"

I could almost hear the feral grin Dauntless was giving beneath his helmet.

"More than you can possibly know."

x-=-=-=-=-x

Twenty minutes later we were hot on the trail of Ms. Colls. Only hot wasn't the right word if you were about a mile away from them. Although I think it would work if you were a mile above them. Right now Dauntless was not happy with me he carried me as I watched Ms. Colls high in the air.

"I thought you said that you have a plan."

"I do have a plan, and it is a good one, but we need to stay out of sight," I told the man carrying me.

"Couldn't we do that from rooftops?" I could almost hear the annoyance in his voices.

"No, because we have a chance of being spotted, and we can't be sure of getting her along with the box."

I had already explained the plan to him once as we left Tayl…. Night Watch and Assault. We would follow from above watching Ms. Colls actions. Then when she went to dispose of the evidence we would swoop down. I would take the part of the decoy distracting her and keep her attention on me while Dauntless would pick up the box.

"We need to wait for her to dispose of the box and see her do it. That way a lawyer can't argue we are framed, Ms. Colls. Also seeing her dispose of the box will give us probable cause to take her in for questioning." I droned out for the third time.

"I know Cop, doesn't change the fact you're not the lightest person in the world."

"Well then pray that Ms. Colls dispose of the box soon."

She didn't dispose of it soon. In fact, she keeps on walking around backtracking almost twenty times. I was so tempted to play the role of vigilante and steal the boxes from her when she finally moved towards a dumpster overflowing with trash bags. Of course, it didn't help that Dauntless had been holding me up for over thirty minutes waiting for this.

"Dauntless can you set me down on the roof?" I asked the other hero keeping my goggles scoped in on Ms. Colls.

"Is she finally getting rid of it?"

"Yep, and it also in a suspicious manner. So bonus points for us."

"Perfect, when do I make my move for the box?" I could hear the excitement in his voice.

"Once I start talking to her, so fly down and grab it as soon as possible."

Dauntless glided down to the gravel rooftops. I could already smell the stink from the alley. Even from a building that was four stories high. It was a good idea honestly. Throwing away evidence before right before the trash truck makes its rounds. It was a good way to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. Only, in this case, the wrong hands were on the right side of the law.

I felt a rush once my feet touched the ground. My powers outlined a blue line down the buildings, and I didn't think about it at all. I jumped off the ledge and landed with force causing the fire-escape to rattle. My breath didn't even become hitched as I jumped from the escape grabbed onto a drain pipe on the other building. I felt my gloves slightly holding onto the pipe before preparing my knees to kick off the building. The last piece of my travel as I grabbed back onto the fire escape. My travel downwards ended as the ladder was released from my weight.

"Wow, now that is a rush," I said in the manner of someone enjoying himself. A complete act because I was going to play the idiot even though Ms. Colls would know that I knew. Then with a twinkle in my eye, I made the effort of pretending to notice Ms. Colls.

I didn't really pay attention to her in the first meeting. After all, she was just some random person that I stopped a mugging for. However, now she deserved a second look. I should have been impressed by her appearance. She could almost be called gorgeous if her long blond hair and almost shapely body. Added with her bright blue eyes she was a poster child for semi nazi group. That alone was enough to ruin any beauty she had.

"Ah, Miss Colls, so nice to see you again. I take it no one else has taken your purse?"

"Nw, No, it's right here and perfectly safe." I could hear the nervousness in her voice. Thinking back I wondered how the empire capes knew to ambush us when they did. If I had to guess I wasn't as discreet with slipping the tracker on.

"Well that's good we wouldn't want a person's property to be stolen or anything," I said with another smile placing my hands at my hips so I could easily reach my combat staff.

"Shit!"

Wow, what a mouth on Ms. Colls. She was trying to back up with her hand going into her purse. However, I was ready for something like this as I quickly pulled out my staff. A flick of the wrist, caused it to extend and the electro-tipped ends where buzzing in a fashion similar to angry wasps. I forced her to stop, my staff pointed at her throat and the air tickling it from the coursing electricity.

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Ding*

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Danger Scene: Level up.

Increase warning to two seconds.

I smiled dismissing the window. I was smiling because for one of the first time in my life I felt like I was doing good. Back home I could never do anything like this, be a cop or a soldier. I just didn't have the mentality for it. It's the truth I am a very compassionate soul, and while I did the little things it never felt as good doing something big. Like bringing in a dangerous criminal that likes to go around beating up others because of their ancestors.

"Now Ms. Colls, that isn't very nice. I am sure that the gun in your purse wouldn't do much. Other then implicate you another crime. After all that hasn't that gun been used in ten other murders?" I asked in the sweetest voice I could.

Then Ms. Colls started calling me names. Mostly along the lines of race traitor with curse words added for flavor. Also about how thinkers should burn in the pits of hell. I honestly didn't think the F-word could imply so much meaning with just a change of the tone. I didn't know if I should be impressed or horrified at the skill it was being used.

"I honestly didn't think I could hear someone with a mouth just as bad as Skidmark. Granted what she lacks in quantity she makes up for in quality." Dauntless said with a verbal smile while holding the box of evidence.

"I know. How long till someone comes to pick her up?" I asked moving the staff closer to make Ms. Colls be silent.

"About ten. I called it in once I set you down."

"Good, now Ms. Colls, please had over the bag along with the weapon?"

I heard the silent muttering of curses coming from the glare. I would have laughed at the attempt since my relatives and family could glare much better than this woman. I was largely immune to such attempts before becoming a Gamer but now it couldn't affect me no matter what. However, that didn't me I wasn't going to let my guard down.

"Ah ah, with one hand in the air. The one you have near the opening of the purse."

I just gained another glare but thankfully she didn't do much other than that. She handed the purse to me with a snarl and I just flashed her a smile. Then a looked at Dauntless and he was already moving. He placed the box to the side and moved behind the woman and placing her hands in cuffs behind her back.

I felt bubbly as I moved over to the box dumping the contents of the purse into it. I couldn't help but sigh there were the most common items of her purse. Other than the gun there seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary. Once clean I slipped it into my inventory and gained a look from Dauntless.

I could already tell by the look that he wasn't going to just let me take the purse just like that. Something that I normally wouldn't mind, but I need the EXP and nothing would keep me from getting that. I stared at him and he stared back at me and we didn't move.

"Put it in the box." He said looking at me.

"Sorry, but no. You know my power is and I need to return this purse to the rightful owner."

"The PRT could do that. There is no need for you too." I stopped him there holding up my hand.

"Sorry, but my powers gave me the job. You can also trust me to do this job since it is in my best interest."

"That is one of the stupidest lines that I have ever heard." Ms. Colls interjected.

"No, it's not and Assualt knows exactly why it isn't." I heard Dauntless sigh since he knows that I am telling the truth. You can always trust a gamer to complete a quest for a power-up.

"Fine, but you are going to have to answer to the Director later about this. It is above my pay grade."

"That fine I don't mind…" I had started to move next to Dauntless so we could make sure Ms. Colls didn't escape. However, my plan and conversation were interrupted.

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BEEP* *WARNING* *BEEP*

The first time I didn't quite understand how fast that little message played in my head. I didn't think about it before since it wasn't my first time feeling it, but it was the strangest thing. I know exactly where the threat was and I had an additional second to act.

"Down!" I shouted at the top of my lungs and dived on Ms. Colls to shield her.

However what happened next hurt like hell. I felt a fire move through my body starting from my shoulder. It hit almost as soon as me and Ms. Colls fell. Stromtiger's attack was slow but this was so fast that not even two seconds were enough to dodge it. I looked at my HP and didn't know what to say. It was in the negatives, by four hundred and forty-eight points.

That was it. The shortest cape career ever and now I was going to die. I wasn't sure who this was to but I could help but think sorry as my world went dark.

Last edited: Feb 26, 2019