96.1 Interlude Uppercrust
Uppercrust flinched upright at the sound of the knock on his office's door. The movement caused an aching sensation to spread through the stiff muscles of his body. When expanded into its portable workshop form Thurin-Ist was incredibly ergonomic and comfortable, at least when it came to work. Not so much for sleep.
He hadn't meant to nod off, but it seemed even his recovered state had limits. He remembered the horizon had been shifting from black to light gray when he had decided to rest his head for a moment. Now all of a sudden, the morning sun was high in the sky, beating down at him through the windows of the hotel penthouse.
He yawned and stretched, feeling the tension and stiffness in his body abate. That was still something that amazed him every time he experienced it. He may have pushed things a little too far the previous day, but he was recovering. He was feeling himself recover. He clearly wasn't invincible, but exertions taken too far would result in a return to his baseline, rather than the death spiral he had spent his entire life fighting to avoid.
And that baseline was more than he had ever imagined. Yellowjack's offhand comment about Olympic qualification might not have been that far off the mark. He would never have fathomed being able to push himself this far this quickly. Part of him was still concerned about the possibility of a crash, some disastrous regression as the technology that facilitated this miracle fell out from beneath him, but that was a minor concern.
He just had to look across the workbench to see that. The accomplishments from the previous night's labor stood before him. A quantity of progress and accomplishment that would have taken him months, if not years of effort, completed in a single night.
Though that wasn't just due to his new state of health. Despite the archaic appearance of the tools on offer, they functioned at a level that dwarfed some of the most advanced facilities available to him. The focusing and enhancement effect had been as incredible to experience as the first time he had held the book. It directed his tinker power and drew out inspiration on a level beyond the very peaks of his career. And then there were the materials on offer.
His eyes jumped to the open journal sitting at the side of the workbench. Pages upon pages contained resources requests to the Celestial Forge. They started with small requisitions put forth experimentally, then became more elaborate and specific as the night went on. The book contained an effective record of his night's work, though the process hadn't truly picked up until the correspondence began.
Orders to the Celestial Forge were being managed by the Matrix. Uppercrust had initially been apologetic regarding the imposition placed on a member of Apeiron's core team, but the Matrix had made it abundantly clear that there was no such imposition. The mysterious tinker's exact abilities were still uncertain, but volume of production and division of attention were clearly paramount among them. They had been very direct about that in their correspondence, leaving no doubt as to their ability to handle even the most exacting of Uppercrust's resource needs.
It was the 'they' that likely played a role in that. When the exchanges elevated from simple material requests to something approaching a discussion Uppercrust had asked if he should refer to the Matrix as male or female. Their response had simply been "No thank you."
In his personal experience that was not an uncommon stance for an individual to take. Uppercrust was from New York, after all. Still, it became clear that this was less about identity and more about their state of existence. Uppercrust had also worked with Case 53s and extreme examples of inhuman capes. He could recognize the signs of a fundamentally different mentality, one he did not yet fully understand.
An entire night of effective collaboration and Uppercrust was still not clear as to the nature of the Matrix. They seemed to regard themselves as both an individual and a collective. They held little interest in anything beyond the topics of their work, but expressed a level of passion and conviction towards those topics that Uppercrust rarely saw in even the most devoted tinkers.
Really, it made them a joy to work with, and not just because they were able to produce and deliver near atomically perfect components almost as quickly as Uppercrust had been able to describe them. The pile of gold offered by Apeiron had been seen as a significant gesture, and indeed it was, but the support offered over a single night's work was incalculable.
Uppercrust meant that literally. It would have taken an army of tinkers and half the resources of the Protectorate to provide that level of support in that kind of timeframe. It was something that just didn't exist at any price, to say nothing of the value of the materials and workmanship being provided.
Truly, that was a significant factor towards Uppercrust's lack of concern. Even if the miracle cure did fail and send him spiraling into a worse state than he started, what he had already achieved and accomplished outshone anything he had dreamed of being able to complete before the illness he had struggled with his entire life finally caught up with him.
He briefly glanced over his projects completed and felt the need to slightly revise the grandeur of the previous statement. The scale of the accomplishments was still there, but not in the exact direction he would have chosen for his final days. But still, when was the last time he had truly been able to indulge in frivolous work? To devote himself to passion rather than necessity? The night's work wasn't exactly as important or grand as his civic shields, but it was still incredibly advanced and valuable.
The knock echoed once more, drawing Uppercrust back to the moment. He rubbed his eyes and swung his chair around to face the door.
"Come in." He called. Yellowjack's voice answered him through the door, but it was tinny and muted.
"If I am to accomplish that, it would perhaps help if you disabled your room shielding system." He said. Uppercrust blinked again, then shifted his attention to the compact defensive array that was glowing slightly.
It had drawn inspiration from the privacy field that Apeiron had so elegantly deployed during their conversation. While blocking the effects of thinker power expression was beyond Uppercrust, he had planned out and constructed a device able to map out the boundaries of a room and provide a cycling array of defensive fields. His was the size of a table lamp, rather than a cell phone, but it was still functional. At that moment, with that device active, the entire hotel could be demolished and he would barely notice.
It was a mobile siege bunker, able to hold out against the most powerful attacks. Something that would have been a distant dream, a long-term project balanced against a hundred other commitments, constantly delayed, and remaining as nothing more than a vague idea for something that might help address some specific problem that would likely come and pass before it could ever be built.
He reached over and disabled the device. There was a slight flicker as the field projected over the walls dissipated, removing the layered reinforcement effect. "Done. You may enter."
The door opened and Yellowjack stepped in holding a tablet with what Uppercrust presumed was the itinerary for the day. In the man's other hand was a steaming cup that smelled heavenly.
"Good morning." The thinker said, noting the position of the sun in the sky. "I trust you had a productive evening."
"Very much so." Uppercrust said, looking across his work. Yellowjack nodded slightly, but was clearly more focused on his current condition.
"I'm glad to hear that, though I would advise against continued stress tests of your recent recovery." He approached the desk and set down the steaming cup. "Though I believe the introduction of some mild socially acceptable stimulants may help with the day's events."
"Ah, thank you." Uppercrust reached for the steaming cup and drank in the aroma of fresh coffee. How long has it been? At least since college. He took a sip and savored the flavor.
"As a surely unintended benefit, your actions from yesterday have quite effectively concealed your recovery." Yellowjack continued. "I still believe it would have been advisable to stop after completing the 'Challenger'."
Uppercrust smiled at the memories. That smile wavered slightly as he felt the still present aftereffects of the meal. "Allow a man some indulgences."
"As you say." Yellowjack said. "The display has caused an elevated level of concern over your health. Normally this would be advantageous, but…"
"It's a fine line to walk." Uppercrust said. "At least until we're ready to reveal our association. And management of reactions from the other branches will be a priority."
"On that note, Agnus Court has reached out to inquire as to your status. I offered the standard assurances, though if the other branch heads are preparing to move…"
"Yes." Uppercrust rubbed his chin. "We may need to bring her into our confidence on this matter."
Yellowjack nodded. "Sooner rather than later, but for the moment I would advise observing the other branches for any signs of activity." He said. "I have also had a more sensible breakfast prepared, in case you feel like eating something that doesn't require the use of an industrial fryer."
Uppercrust nodded. "That sounds like a good idea." He stretched again, enjoying the sensation of muscles settling into place. Healing. It was a wonderful feeling to recover. To be able to indulge in exchange for a temporary inconvenience, rather than a crippling array of debilitating consequences.
"I am glad you were at least able to get some sleep." Yellowjack said. "Though your current condition should once again serve to provide an effective cover to your recovery." He shook his head. "I can't remember the last time you worked through the night."
Uppercrust smiled. "I can't remember the last time I was able to." He said. "I have absolutely no complaints regarding my state of health, but it seems there are still limits to consider. It is not just a matter of 'Chasing Apeiron'. The principle apparently applied to the rest of the Celestial Forge as well."
Yellowjack shifted slightly and glanced at the open book. It was effectively as much of a chat log as inventory for his work. "How was your collaboration with the Matrix?"
"Unique." Uppercrust admitted. "Which is perhaps the only way to describe that particular individual."
"I can see that supply lines are not going to be an issue, assuming this arrangement continues?" Yellowjack asked.
"Invariably. They were beyond accommodating." He flicked through a few pages of their exchanges. "Though somewhat frustrated by the need to avoid exchanges of technology and their inability to provide 'unique materials'." Yellowjack raised an eyebrow. "It seems the resources available to the Celestial Forge extend well beyond the conventional. Hardly a surprise, but it was clear that the Matrix was viewing these components as a necessary compromise."
"I see." Yellowjack replied. "And there were no… issues later in the night?" He asked. "Nothing relating to certain projects that were embarked upon?"
"What do you mean?" Uppercrust asked. Yellowjack pulled up an email on his tablet and a memory returned from the depth of the night's work, now stripped of the cozy certainty it had enjoyed in the early hours of the morning.
"I have not yet followed through with the instructions you laid out." Yellowjack explained, causing Uppercrust to sag in relief. "Given the fact that the message was sent at three forty-one in the morning, I felt a delay would be advisable, if only to avoid bothering Narwhal with your 'immediate offer for collaboration on fashion related projects'."
Uppercrust looked towards the edge of the worktable at what appeared to be a set of jewelry. In fact, it was a collection of linked force field emitters capable of mapping distributed crystalline expressions of defensive fields directly to a person's skin. Fields that could be arranged in any number of aesthetically pleasing patterns, effectively recreating the effect used by the leader of the guild for both fashion and defense.
It was perhaps a bit premature to have instructed Yellowjack to move forward with the offer. In this case, he was deeply grateful for his subordinate's discretion on the matter. He hadn't seen a late night in years, but apparently ideas and decisions became slightly suspect as the evening turned to morning.
"Um, yes. A wise decision. Such a project should be workshopped thoroughly before any public announcements." He said quickly. Yellowjack just nodded.
It was a concerning lapse in judgment, but once again, when was the last time he had been able to lose himself in any project to the point where that was even possible? There was never enough to spare to worry about excess. Now he was reveling in it. He would need to be careful moving forward, but it was a change for the better. One he was enjoying beyond measure.
"Moving on to less frivolous news, I have news on Ferrona." Yellowjack stated calmly. "The issue of Mara has been attended to."
"Already?" Uppercrust asked, blinking the last remains of sleep from his eyes.
"As I said, she has been planning this since she first joined our cell. I believe it was more a matter of selecting which plan she wished to use, rather than constructing one." He tapped at his tablet. "All things considered; it was a rather clean operation. There will be need for some light bribery and forgery to present the action as demolition work, but Ferrona has ensured that the permits were in place."
"Damages?" Uppercrust asked.
"Still being calculated. Entirely internal assets, and likely to total in the low seven figures. I will keep you apprised. More importantly, this will be relatively easy to conceal from the other branches, at least in the short term."
Uppercrust smiled. "With the pace of the Celestial Forge, I doubt anything matters beyond the short term."
"Quite so." Yellowjack said. "For the other individuals of concern, transfers have begun for low priority cases. I have taken the liberty of announcing a reorganization of our departments as cover for the work."
"Good." Uppercrust said. It was fast work, but given it stood as the sole request from Apeiron as well as an effective test of loyalty he wouldn't risk seeming to be delinquent on the matter. "What about the more contentious cases?" He asked.
None were quite on the level of Mara, but a serious appraisal of their branch had brought up far too many names. It was disturbing just how much he had grown to accept over the years. Being free of the necessity of tolerating such actions was a gift. Another point reinforcing his decision.
"I have begun to put measures in place to attend to the situation." He said. "An inconveniently timed release of the details of their past actions will provide ample grounds for the Elite to issue a public disavowal. There are various independent heroes and corporate teams that are always happy for a high-profile victory that can be easily publicized."
"So, they will be conveniently placed and ready to swoop in the instant matters are revealed to the public?" Uppercrust asked. It was a strategy they had used before, but always sparingly.
Yellowjack nodded. "It will take time to arrange, and require a careful touch to avoid obvious attribution to us. Additionally, a few cases are beyond what one would wish to reveal publicly, or too potentially destructive to 'outsource'. Ferrona has offered to remain on hand to address those matters."
Uppercrust nodded. She would be missed in Brockton Bay, but the situation wasn't as volatile as it had been. And even if it proved to be, the work of the past night would be enough to carry him through any conceivable threat.
"Good." He said. "That will let us focus on local matters."
"Yes." Yellowjack said. "Garment's event, and the initiation of work on the Protectorate Headquarters. Fortunately, you will not be needed at the event for any preparation steps. Apparently, they have things well in hand." He explained, sharing a report from their civilian team. Uppercrust reached for the book and absently flipped through until the pages stopped at the same report.
Yellowjack observed the miraculous display with a measure of concern, but didn't comment on it.
"Will there be a meet and greet?" Uppercrust asked. "Interviews or a red carpet?"
"Not as such. The tone is more sedate, given the losses the city has suffered. Regardless, there will be press there for your arrival."
"Not just mine, I hope." He flicked through the pages of the report, noting the expected surplus of Protectorate heroes. And Wards as well. He focused on a particular name on the lists.
"Sir?" Yellowjack asked.
"It seems Kid Win will be attending the event." He said in a contemplative tone.
"Their modular technology tinker?" Yellowjack asked, flicking to the page in his own digital copy. "Do you think it is an intentional move from Director Piggot?"
"I do believe everything that woman does has some intention behind it. The only question is determining what it is." He said.
He had to admit to being blindsided by the initial 'assessment' the boy had provided. Apparently, Director Piggot had decided to respond to the perceived strong-arming of their initial meeting with a demonstration of the resources she held in reserve. A way for her to demonstrate that her office was not helpless, even with Armsmaster unavailable to them.
A modular technology tinker, one of the most valuable specializations he could imagine, and yet they played up a public image of a generic young cape focused on spectacle and ray guns. It wasn't uncommon for an asset of that level to be obscured to some degree, and for a Ward that was practically expected, but the level and effectiveness of the concealment was surprising even to him.
Tinker specializations were poorly understood, even by tinkers themselves. Some worked towards a certain field of technology. He was a prime example of such a case. Others had restrictions in approach, or immutable characteristics to their work. Rarely you had tinkers who's focus wasn't a type of technology, but an expression of it.
The broad specialization wasn't always a benefit, and that limit on expression could be as restrictive as anything else. You just needed to look to the Merchants and their vehicle tinker. Through the recent chaos Squealer had proven to be capable of a far greater range of feats than anyone would have anticipated, but only expressed through large and overbuilt vehicles.
Kid Win of the Brockton Bay Wards stood as the polar opposite. He had seen the boy's talents in action from how he had effectively deconstructed the systems of the PHQ into discrete, manageable, and even largely interchangeable components. Just a light touch of the boy's specialization had vastly simplified a complicated maintenance project.
Once you reached a certain level, tinker tech always came down to maintenance. That was the final point, the limiting factor that all tinkers hit. A specialization that directly addressed that problem was beyond value. It changed the very power curve under which tinkers operated. Being able to simply switch out a damaged or failed component rather than suffer a complete rebuild would completely change the viability of more projects than he could count.
If he was not currently benefiting from a complete lack of resource constraints, he would have done anything to get that tinker on his team. At the very least he would have pressed for some collaborative work. The boy had been active for two years. If he had been able to gain even a ten percent reduction in his maintenance commitments over those last two years…
Those were old concerns. Well, not that old. They were the concerns that had defined his life until the previous day. A constant search to squeeze the last drops of productivity from his power and technology. To ensure that no resource was overlooked.
A resource like a modular technology tinker. Really, a specialization like that should be parked next to Dragon, not playing with light guns in an east coast Wards program. It did seem that the recent chaos was finally causing Director Piggot to let her secret prize out in public. From what he'd heard, Kid Win had been instrumental in analysis of the Ungodly Hour and was developing quite a reputation among Protectorate tinkers from the discussions that sprung up in the wake of any of Apeiron's feats. He had openly acclaimed the boy, though the meaning was either lost on the possibly sheltered youth, or the weight of his responsibilities left little space to enjoy his accomplishments.
That was another point of concern. Director Piggot was pressed to the limit. She was fighting to save what could possibly be saved of her dignity, career, and even her freedom. If Kid Win seemed to have been kept in reserve, and Director Piggot was drawing from every reserve available to her to an excessive degree.
And now there was some play involving the charity event. He didn't know what it was, but he doubted it was in the boy's best interests. Perhaps an anonymous tip to the Youth Guard official handling the case would be in order, depending on how things played out at the event.
"Whatever her play, it's unlikely we are part of it." Uppercrust continued. "That is, beyond her desire to offset our attendance."
"I doubt your status as speaker went over particularly well." Yellowjack said. "And to that, I have your speech ready for review." Once again, Uppercrust absently flicked through the pages of the book and once more they turned to the speech in question, complete with Yellowjack's own annotations. He saw the man's expression out of the corner of his eye.
"I do not believe Thurin-Ist does such things specifically to agitate you." He said neutrally.
"I do not believe it does such things solely to agitate me." Yellowjack said. "But I am given the impression that it derives some level of satisfaction from bypassing my information control measures."
The book seemed to settle in Uppercrust's hands. He decided not to comment on it further.
The book remained the primary focus of the entire wondrous device, at least in Uppercrust's perception. That was probably just a matter of perspective. The book provided a point of interface for the device that he found comforting. No matter what insanity the planner, drafting kit, writing desk, or portable lab was capable of, it would all be grounded and coordinated in that book.
With respect to Yellowjack's concerns, he didn't know if the device was actually self-aware, but it did seem to have a degree of personality expressed through its automated processes. That alone should have been worrying, but there was never any indication that it was malicious. At worst it was a bit presumptuous, though perhaps overly so when Yellowjack was involved. The sense that Thurin-Ist somehow enjoyed flaunting its access to their records and data systems was the kind of thing that bordered on ridiculous, but in the world of parahumans something could easily be both ridiculous and true, and dangerous.
Still, he doubted the miraculous device was a danger to anything beyond Yellowjack's blood pressure and he was confident that they would settle once they had gotten past the worst of the turmoil. When that would happen was anyone's guess. The situation in the city was still uncertain, the purging of their own cell had the potential to go horribly wrong, and there would inevitably be conflicts with the other leaders of the Elite over his actions.
Uppercrust shook his head. He remembered his caution regarding the benefits of the device. The history of such things tended to be unpleasant, to say the least. Bastard Son's ability jumped to mind, as did the doubled edged promises of Teacher and the madness of Ingenue's influence.
There was no hint of that with Apeiron's work, but there didn't need to be. It had an entirely different effect, one that he had seen firsthand. He hadn't labored until he literally collapsed on the worktable out of some compulsion. It was more elementary than that. The opportunity, the power, the potential the man presented was more enticing than any of the aforementioned capes' ensnarement methods.
For that, a few quirks could easily be forgiven. He moved to close the book as he turned back to Yellowjack. "I believe breakfast would be an excellent idea. Then perhaps a moment to freshen up before we face the day's events."
The thinker nodded. "The modifications to your spare suits have been completed, but it was not possible to adapt the integrated technology to your new measurements." He explained.
Uppercrust smiled. "Less of a concern than it was."
Looking around the workbench, there were a half dozen items ready that exceeded the reserve systems he'd had integrated into his suit. His work had been beyond fast. With the Matrix assisting, all he was doing was assembling the parts that had been built and delivered. All Uppercrust needed to do was design the components and assemble the finished product. It was no wonder he had lost himself in work.
"I will see to-" Yellowjacket paused as the book flipped open again, this time to a blank page. A light scratching sound came from the page as an unseen hand began to write. It was the book's version of a chat program, only this time it wasn't the Matrix who was reaching out.
The Matrix wrote in incredibly neat and consistent lettering. It was like someone was recreating newsprint with a pen and a very steady hand. That wasn't what Uppercrust saw filling the lines of the page. The words were written in a masterful form of illuminated calligraphy that was somehow easier to read that basic print. Something about the pattern of the letters and the form of the words made the text crystal clear even from a distance and also seemed to draw the eye across the writing at an accelerated pace, rendering it easier to read and recall.
There was no question as to whose writing it was. Uppercrust watched as the beautiful script was written across the page.
'Uppercrust, I would like to speak with you about recent developments in an ongoing situation. I believe your insight would be most helpful in the management of this developing situation.
Apeiron'
Yellowjack cleared his throat. "I think I will take my leave and allow you to attend to this matter." He said quickly.
"Right." Uppercrust said. "And perhaps we should see if some flexibility might be introduced into the day's schedule, as a precautionary measure."
Yellowjack nodded and quickly slipped out of the room, closing the door behind him. Uppercrust moved over the book and wrote his reply.
'I would be pleased to speak with you now and offer whatever advice and assistance that I might.'
After his pen finished scratching over the page he paused, wondering what would come next. Would they arrange a meeting, or was Apeiron likely to just pop in-
There was a faint popping sound as Apeiron appeared in the office, roughly in the exact same position he had occupied when Uppercrust had been healed.
"Ah, Apeiron." He said, climbing to his feet. "Good morning and thank you for taking the time to visit. How can I help you today?"
"Good morning to you as well." He said. "As for the matter to discuss, would you mind?" He pulled out his obscurement device. Uppercrust's eyes briefly jumped to his own rather inferior recreation of the concept. Apeiron followed his gaze and Uppercrust could see the flash recognition on his face.
He could see numerous flashes of recognition as the tinker's eyes swept across his work from the previous night. Casual glances totally deconstructing his work, assuming he hadn't pieced together the functions already from the parts that the Matrix had provided. It could be seen as invasive, but Uppercrust bore it with pride. The amount he'd been able to accomplish in a single evening might not be noteworthy by the standards of the Celestial Forge, but on a personal level it was an accomplishment he could be unquestionably proud of.
Then Apeiron's gaze fell on the collection of jewelry. The integrated, skin mapped mobile crystalline fields intended to emulate Narwhal's particular style, though with some stylistic liberties that only slightly compromised the effectiveness of the defense.
Once again, the decisions of his early morning work were examined under the light of day and found to be more than a little questionable. Thankfully, Apeiron didn't comment on the matter. At least not directly.
"Please, go ahead." Uppercrust said, gesturing to the privacy device.
"Thank you." He said, setting it on the coffee table that Uppercrust had shifted into the corner. A feat he accomplished entirely by himself, with no assistance. He wasn't even winded afterwards.
Apeiron paused as he was about to activate the device. It was a very particular type of pause and very recognizable. Uppercrust had seen it firsthand several times, though this seemed more complicated. It actually reminded him of a particular moment. A rather famous one, captured immediately before Apeiron had transformed during his fight with Lung.
"Is everything alright?" He asked.
Apeiron let out a breath. "Yes. Or it will be. I can deal with it, later." He activated the device and turned back to Uppercrust. There was a different character to the privacy effect compared to the previous expression he had witnessed. Somehow it seemed to have more weight to it, though in a way that he couldn't exactly describe. "I see you've had a productive evening." The man said. Uppercrust had the feeling it was an attempt to change the subject from whatever had just happened.
"Please extend my gratitude to the Matrix for their assistance." He said. "I will endeavor to avoid imposing on them to such an extent in the future." He paused as he saw the tinker's expression. "Is something amusing?"
"If you wish to extend gratitude to the Matrix, promising to reduce the amount you work with them is not the best way to express it." He said with a slight grin.
Uppercrust frowned. "I'm happy to hear that they enjoyed our collaboration, such as it was, but I understand the types of commitments you must have. I would not want to unduly impose on the Matrix's time and attention."
"Trust me, they have attention to spare." Apeiron said. "Your projects did not impact their other work of commitments." He smiled to himself as he continued. "You could say multitasking is a particular talent of theirs.
"I see." Uppercrust said. "I would not inquire more than is appropriate, but it is evident that they have something of a unique existence."
"I don't believe there is anything quite like it." Apeiron said with a nod.
No detail to exactly what that existence was, which was fine. It was helpful and apparently stable enough for the Matrix to indulge in their passions. There were hundreds of capes who were not so lucky.
"I see." Uppercrust said. "Now, what is this matter that I can assist you with?"
"I have broken Bakuda's encryption." He said. "Her entire bomb network has been neutralized."
Uppercrust froze. He blinked once, then blinked again. When that wasn't enough, he took a moment and forced himself to reassess several matters.
"I see." He said. "That is indeed excellent news. I take it Dragon was mistaken in her assessment of the dynamics present in the signal encryption?"
The proof had been extremely solid. It was more than enough to convince Uppercrust of the futility of that particular route, but Dragon had been a little off recently, to put it mildly. Her 'pursuit' of Apeiron was a matter of no small concern, and not just for the denizens of the internet who indulged in fanciful romantic pairings of capes.
She had become more aggressive, taking risks, and making mistakes. It was clear to all that there was something of concern between the two tinkers, but no one was sure exactly what it was. Uppercrust would have liked to know, but his relationship with the man wasn't quite at that point yet.
"The assessment wasn't wrong." Apeiron said. "Just not quite complete."
"Not complete. It was proven unsolvable, but also did not account for some other aspects in which it was… also provably unsolvable?" He asked.
"I would rather not get into the math behind this." Apeiron said, sounding fairly serious.
That was more than enough for Uppercrust to drop the topic. Unexplainable technology was one thing. Unexplainable mathematics was an entirely different matter. In fact, it was usually a sign that it would be advisable to leave the general vicinity of whatever was causing MATH to go wrong before the laws of physics started breaking down.
Unfortunately, not an option at the moment, though Uppercrust hoped that Apeiron had a better handle on whatever this particular impossibility happened to be.
"Right." He said. "Well, as I said, that is excellent news. And her devices…"
"Completely neutralized." He said with confidence. "None of Bakuda's system infrastructure even comes close to the complexity of that signal. I have the entire network spoofed. Every bomb is shut down and every signal is mirrored. She can't even notice anything's changed."
The subversion was an interesting development, and not one he expected. "So, you would be able to remove the implanted explosives?" He asked.
"Anyone could remove the implanted explosives." Apeiron said. "I have an entirely separate network developed to ghost her monitoring. Every one of her devices could go off line and she wouldn't notice anything."
Uppercrust was beginning to piece things together. "But she would if such acts were performed in front of news cameras, or announced at a press conference." He said. "And I'm guessing that this decryption has not allowed you to locate her hiding place."
"Not yet." He said. "There are a number of higher dimensional aspects to the signal. I believe that is how she has been able to maintain control of her systems from within whatever version of Dodge's pocket dimension she is hiding in."
"But it is not impossible?" He asked. If the man's options were limited by circumstances he would hardly be seeking advice on how to proceed. Often limits provided rather simple routes for people to follow. The wealth of possibilities Apeiron must contend with paralyzed most men. Perhaps it was another extension of the meaning of his name.
"I can track it." He said. "It won't be easy, and it will take time."
"I see." He said. "And that opportunity would pass if Bakuda had reason to believe she was compromised and shut down her signal. Reasons such as an attempted execution of a hostage failing or a public announcement of the release of the hostages."
Apeiron nodded. "I'm sure you can understand why I didn't approach the PRT with this news."
Uppercrust took a breath. "Yes, I can see that. Director Piggot was a contentious figure even when secure in her position. With the difficulties of her current situation, I wouldn't trust her to pass on the opportunity for a run of good press, no matter how little of it would be attributed to her." It was somewhat cynical, but not untrue. Everyday seemed to bring more and more issues to light.
"I figured." He said. Uppercrust could see the bad blood between him and the director in the man's expression. "Which does put things in a somewhat delicate situation."
Uppercrust nodded. "Quite. There are negotiations being pursued by several parties. It would be unfortunate if they resulted in an overly lenient offer being extended to a woman with no capacity to threaten her supposed hostages, and nearly as unfortunate if negotiations break down and she learns about your subversion from an ill-advised execution attempt."
"I would like for her to stay focused on these negotiations." Apeiron said. "It's preferable to her devoting herself to some final act of destruction."
"The woman does have a remarkable talent for such things." Though hopefully less of one in the absence of March.
"I also don't like the idea of leaving the hostages in fear of death for the amount of time it will take me to find Bakuda." Apeiron continued.
"That is a most unfortunate situation." Uppercrust agreed. "Even beyond the monstrous acts taken to force their obedience, the handling of their needs has been less than ideal."
It was true that resources were stretched across the city during the recovery effort, but the state of the hostages had become inexcusable. They had been corralled into the park as a temporary measure. The location was never intended to house hundreds of people, and the PRT barely had the manpower to manage them. They had needed to call in resources from the National Guard just to make sure the hostages had food, beds, basic accommodations, and roofs over their heads. Canvas roofs, but still, better than the PRT had been able to provide.
"I believe I understand your dilemma." He continued. "You have accomplished a considerable achievement, but are unable to act on it publicly. Furthermore, the delay necessary to fully address this situation could be compromised by the negotiation process currently underway, and would extend an intolerable situation endured by hundreds of people indefinitely."
"Not indefinitely." Apeiron said. "Just longer than I would like."
"I see." Uppercrust said with a grim nod.
The hostages were already on their sixth day of National Guard accommodations. The negotiations could be dragged out with the right influence, but the longer that took the greater the risk of Bakuda attempting to exert her now nonexistent power. Any leak of the situation or attempt to treat the hostages could be revealed to Bakuda, once again informing her of her compromised state.
The hostages might be able to be attended to, but keeping their status secret for any length of time would be a lost cause. The same with drawing out negotiations. After the first few days the delays would be obvious. It was doubtful he could extend them to more than a week or two, and that would require considerable influence.
"Do you have an idea of how long you will need?" He asked. That was what this all came down to. Uppercrust had offered his resources and influence in exchange for his health and was prepared to follow through, but there were limits to what even he could accomplish.
"It's hard to tell at this point." Apeiron admitted. "Investigation of the signal path is still in the early stages. It could take as long as three days, all together."
Uppercrust froze. "Three days." He said in a flat voice.
"I know there is a meme regarding that, but…"
"No." Uppercrust's voice was harsher than he intended. "Three days." He took a breath. "I can get you three days. I can definitely get you three days."
He nearly wilted in the face of Apeiron's gratitude at his promise. This was the fundamental disconnect he had only brushed against when working with the Matrix. A man who worked on a timescale that no sane person would consider to be difficult.
"There won't be any issue with the negotiations? I know offers are in the works." He said.
That was something Uppercrust was barely aware of and spoke to improvements in his information gathering resources. Or perhaps just to Survey's talents.
"Those matters tend to move at the speed of Government. Adding a single layer of oversight to any of the deals being considered would be more than enough for your timeline." He smiled. "I have various contacts who can ensure such things. Generally, it is far more difficult to expedite a government process than to obstruct one."
"And Bakuda?" He asked. "I imagine I'm not the only one who's seen her psychological profile."
"Thankfully not." He said. "It is unlikely any volatile reactions will be triggered during the early negotiations unless she is directly challenged by someone with similar levels of egotistical narcissism."
So, it was a good thing that Director Piggot was unlikely to be engaging with Bakuda directly. Okay, Uppercrust could admit that was an unfair assessment of the director, though mostly due to the inaccurate definition rather than the severity of concerns related to her mental state. The more that was revealed about the history of the city the more such concerns were raised. In the end Apeiron's original assessment of the director might end up being validated.
And possibly not just as the only plea that would allow her to avoid criminal charges for her conduct during her role as director.
"What about the hostages?" He asked, looking out the window in the direction of Alan Shepard Park. It wasn't visible from the hotel window, but despite being obscured by skyscrapers Uppercrust suspected Apeiron was familiar with every detail of the hostages' situation.
He shook his head before continuing. "I could clear that place out before they knew I was there." He said. "Get every bomb removed without complications. Frankly, I had a decent chance of it even before I broke the signal."
"I'm sure that, despite the conditions they have endured, the hostages will be grateful that their lives were not gambled on chance, no matter how decent." Uppercrust said. He moved over to the workbench and began flicking through the book, bringing up documents and information reports on the situation in Brockton Bay. "But I believe there is a solution that will allow you to attend to the matter without compromising your efforts against Bakuda."
"What do you recommend?" Apeiron asked, moving next to him.
"Really, it's quite simple. Or at least it is in most cities. I am sure you have noticed, there are several irregularities that have been called into question regarding the local PRT office." He said.
"Believe me, I've noticed." Apeiron said, frustration clear in his voice.
"Yes, well strangely, in most cities the PRT directors do not actively fight or obstruct goodwill efforts from local parahumans." Uppercrust mused. "Something of a novel concept for Brockton Bay, but I can attest that it is indeed true."
It honestly was. Even in cities where the Elite were regarded as an active enemy force, he was rarely met with worse than suspicion. Never outright obstruction. Then again, he did have a rather more robust legal team than Apeiron.
"I can appreciate that, but I don't see how it helps with the current situation." Apeiron said.
Uppercrust smiled. "Simply put, you merely need to change the director who you are dealing with." He pulled up the document he was looking for.
Apeiron raised an eyebrow beyond the rim of his visor as Uppercrust continued. "Director Piggot has somewhat inadvisably been fighting to maintain authority over all aspects of the recent crisis. It has, however, been pointed out that she specifically lacks the resources to house or manage a large number of compromised civilians. Plans have been put forth to transport them out of the city into more appropriate accommodation, but those efforts ran into certain issues."
"Untenable risk during transport." Apeiron read from the document. "A fancy way of saying they were afraid of the bombs exploding while they moved them. I'm familiar with these measures, but I don't see how this addresses the problem."
"Fundamentally, this is an issue of information control." Uppercrust explained. "The concern is not the hostages, it's preventing Bakuda from being aware of any changes to the hostage's status. Moving them to a secure location under the authority of a new director would address these issues. Without a public spectacle the bombs could be removed and the hostages kept for medical observation until you have addressed the situation with Bakuda."
"They will have the facilities to conduct those kinds of procedures? And do so confidentially?" Apeiron asked.
"That is unlikely. In which case, I would ask to impose on you or a member of your team to attend to the work." Uppercrust said, grinning as the final piece fell into place.
Apeiron gave him a blank look. "They are just going to let me walk in and perform hundreds of surgeries on their watch? Without screaming it across compromised internal communications or leaking it to the press?"
"Apeiron, I can safely say that any other director in the country would be falling over themselves for your assistance, and generally speaking, the inner workings of a PRT office are not public knowledge."
The man glanced over the documents on display. "How exactly do you intend to accomplish something like this?" He asked.
"I understand you had an amicable conversation with Director Armstrong, at least until such time as general policy on signal tracking intruded. I have also worked with the man and found him discreet and reasonable. There are avenues of direct, secure communication available and if the gravity of the situation is impressed upon him, I am certain he will act with proper consideration."
Apeiron nodded slowly. "I would like to vet those lines of communication. I'm sure you have confidence in them, but given what's at stake…"
"I understand completely. I have no interest in spending time in a city being targeted by a mad bomber. The matter must be kept from Bakuda, which will unfortunately require keeping most of the country in the dark. And most likely the entirety of the local authorities." He explained.
"What about moving the hostages?" Apeiron asked.
"There are already a number of plans that have been proposed. Certain issues relating to resources, finances, and political support smothered the initiative, but it should be easy enough to restart, particularly with a director's backing." Uppercrust said.
"This is going to be expensive?" Apeiron asked. "If there are any resources that I can provide…"
"The Matrix has already made it abundantly clear how easily they can provide gold bullion in quantities that would terrify the international commodities market. I assure you; I will reach out if any physical assets are required, but possess more than sufficient liquid capital to put a plan of this scale into motion." He replied with a slight smile.
The man leaned back and shook his head. "So that's it? A bit of obstruction in the hostage negotiation, relocating them to a disused school or dorm, and then I just walk in and heal them?"
"I believe you are underselling the situation, particularly with respect to your contributions." Uppercrust said.
It was somewhat darkly amusing that Apeiron seemed to consider the challenges of a literally impossible code and healing technology that could attend to hundreds in a single night as trivial problems compared to the challenges of dealing with the local PRT. There was at least a certain logic to his point of view. It was hard to address the issue of an obstinate director with nothing but technological superiority.
The far easier solution was to switch to a less obstinate director. Not the most viable solution for the city as a whole, but for the authority over the hostages it was easily manageable. In fact, the governor would probably sign off on it immediately if only to cut Director Piggot out of any upcoming negotiations with Bakuda.
"Thank you." He said. "I do appreciate this."
Uppercrust gave the man a polite nod. "As I said, my resources are at your disposal, and this is a matter I am happy to assist with."
It was admirable that such a focus was being placed on the wellbeing of civilians. At least between them any illusion of a mercenary attitude had been abandoned. The concern was genuine, not a matter of undermining an opponent or weakening Bakuda's position.
It was something that took him back. Back to before NEPEA-5 when the lines between hero and rogue were less clearly defined. When government sanctioned crime fighters didn't have the monopoly on the role of 'good guy'. When he had worked with others with similar goals and mindsets for the purpose of making the world a better place.
It was something he'd long since put behind him. The idealism of youth, something that could not endure in the world of the Elite. He'd compromised again and again. Standards had held, but morals bent like rubber. Mara's presence had been evidence enough of that.
Only now it was like he'd been given a second chance, and not just with respect to his health. He had done things that he was not proud of. Always out of necessity, but that meant little to the people who were wronged. More than that, his organization had facilitated abuses both minor and, to use Apeiron's parlance, monstrous.
But the monstrous elements would be purged from his branch. A process like that would normally leave him crippled and easy prey for other directors or rival groups, but he couldn't imagine anyone challenging him. Even without Apeiron's backing, the work of a single night had made his new position clear.
He didn't need to compromise. Not anymore. He could work towards that better world without having to trade away his soul a piece at a time.
At least he hoped he would be able to. Apeiron's intentions towards the hostages was a very good sign, but it wasn't a topic he was willing to broach. Not until he had completed his first task.
And, unfortunately, since he didn't work at the speed of the Celestial Forge, it would likely take him more than three days to root out more than a decade of rot.
"Is there anything else we need to attend to?" Apeiron asked.
"Not at the moment, though I believe Director Armstrong would wish to continue your previous conversation. In confidence, of course, but it would stand as a step to facilitate your work on those in his care." Uppercrust explained.
"Right. And this isn't going to be circulated to the wider Protectorate, leaked to villains, and then end up on the nightly news?" Apeiron asked.
Uppercrust shook his head. "As I'm sure you've become aware, local directors have a significant amount of autonomy. While the encounter will need to be reported at some point, that will be well beyond your prospective timeline."
"I see." He said. The man always held himself with an unnatural grace, but even so, seeing him actually relax was something else. "It seems we have matters in hand."
"I believe so. Unless there are any other matters that you need me to attend to?" He asked.
Apeiron smiled. "Well, maybe one." He said, moving to the coffee table and deactivating the privacy field. "Would you be willing to meet with another member of my team?"
Uppercrust smiled. "I would be happy to. When would they like to-"
"Hi!" A girl with glowing red hair suddenly appeared in front of Apeiron. The color was matched by her eyes, nails, and even parts of her clothing, all of which pulsed in time with that red glow.
The same glow that emanated from the red lock of hair on Apeiron's head.
"I'm Proto Aima." The girl continued. "We saw each other at Somer's Rock, but I couldn't talk to you then. It's nice to be able to talk to you now."
The image of the glowing mink creature flashed through Uppercrust's mind. He spared a glance at Apeiron. The man gave him a small nod.
"Well, it is very nice to meet you as well, young lady." He said politely and extended his hand. She shook it energetically, making him very aware of the absence of his personal force fields. "You seem to be doing much better."
"Apeiron helped me. It's been really nice to be able to get out and talk with people and fight and everything." She replied in rapid-fire progression.
"Indeed." He said, a genuine smile forming on his face. "I find myself in a similar situation, and one I am quite grateful for."
The girl nodded. "I think we have to go now, but thank you for meeting me. I hope I can see you again."
"And you as well, young lady." He said with a chuckle. And then they were gone.
Apeiron had helped another member of his team. A sweet girl by all accounts, and one who had been through experiences he could only guess at. It was the kind of thing that provided a foundation for his suspicions, and what his future might hold, once immediate concerns were resolved.
Speaking of those immediate concerns, there was no shortage of them. His schedule for the day had likely doubled. He would need to see what he could delegate and where he could save time, but he would see this through. The first true request Apeiron had issued would be accomplished, no matter what.
And the fact that it would save hundreds of people from terror and confinement? Well, that was just a bonus.
Addendum Joe
I apparated back to the entrance of the workshop as the Vehicles constellation missed a connection, but I wasn't concerned about that. I was concerned about the unexpected connection to the Crafting constellation that had graced the start of my talk with Uppercrust.
Figures a power from a supposedly lost constellation would end up blindsiding me, though wasn't actually the power itself that was the problem. Workshop Artisan granted an array of archaic but effective crafting techniques. I could create 'trick weapons', surprisingly powerful weapons capable of transformation or additional features. They often require monstrous strength or insane skill to wield properly, but their effectiveness was similarly monstrous and insane.
I had received examples of such weapons. A Threaded Cane and a Hunter's Pistol. The cane could transform into a bladed whip and the pistol could fire repeatedly and utilize either blood bullets or quicksilver bullets, a resource particular to the devices I could make. They were able to function in nearly any firearm of a similar level of advancement or even power 'Hunter's Tools'.
Hunter's Tools were magical items, either artificial constructions or repurposed parts of monsters. They could be used to draw forth spectacular effects, but often at the cost of the power found in quicksilver bullets.
Actually, I could use the techniques to convert ANYTHING to draw power from those bullets. It wasn't always practical, but effectively I could bypass any personal energy requirements by handing out a handful of bullets composed of mercury and my own blood.
Really that was it. This all came down to blood. The power included a bag of blood vials that could heal via injection. Quicksilver bullets were included as well, and in addition to being able to craft Quicksilver Bullets I had gained the ability to form bullets directly out of my own blood. Because there was something different about my blood, something I'd been able to feel since the power had arrived.
That revolved around two powers that had also come bundled with Workshop Artisan. Rally was the most mundane. It allowed me to heal my wounds provided I drenched myself in blood close enough to the point of injury. The presence of blood was enough to heal me, and the second 'free' power was the reason why.
Hunter was a power with a history to it. Aspects of that power were shrouded from me and tied to the world these abilities had originated from, but one thing was unquestionably clear. Inside me, tied to my blood and to every expression of this power, every element upon which it was based, was a beast.
The experience would probably have been fairly frightening for someone who hadn't already had to deal with being a zoanthrope, gigas, titan, robot, demigod, alien, and whatever else I counted as. At that point mixing in lycanthropy was practically mundane.
The presence of the inner beast was supposed to be a struggle. A constant effort to maintain integrity of body and mind in the face of growing corruption as more and more power was borrowed from that tainted well of primal strength. But that was not me. I had Mental Fortress. I had Monstrous Strength. I had Unnatural Skill with transformations. Even the ability to shift my hand into a brutal beast's claw was more of a novelty. And on top of everything, my departure from that world seemed to have pacified my inner beast to a degree, rendering it easier to draw from with less risk.
Which was good, because it quickly became apparent that this wasn't 'just' a matter of becoming a werewolf. There was something old in this blood that flowed in my veins. Older than anything I had encountered, and considering I already had titan ancestry that was really saying something.
"Are you doing okay?" Tetra asked as we entered the Workshop.
"I'm fine." I said. "A lot to do, but the hostages will be looked after and we can start hunting down Bakuda." I held up the improved 'privacy device'. "And we have more data on Passenger Space interactions. That's a big plus."
There was a serious risk of Uppercrust's passenger being a vector to Jack, but stepping up the scope of the privacy device and combining it with divine crafting had been enough to stifle that possibility and provide another reference point for Passenger Space exploration.
"What about the new power?" Tetra asked. "It's about blood, right?"
"It is. I don't think it will hurt you, but we need to figure out what this is." I let out a breath. As if my day wasn't packed enough to begin with.
"Is it serious?" She asked. "Because the duplicates have been talking about Cthulhu Werewolves."
I blinked, then extended my mind to check on them. Oh, boy. They had figured out how to transform. And all the way. That was bigger than I expected werewolves be. Well, at least that was another boost to my Monstrous Strength and Unnatural skills, so that was something.
"I would say it's serious enough to warrant attention." I said as we continued in. Frankly, there were too many things that did. I was just hoping some of them could be resolved before I found myself stretched to the breaking point.
Tetra smiled as she looked up at me. "But serious isn't bad, right? And we can help."
"It's not bad. Not that bad." I clarified. "And yes, you can help. You all can help."
Of course, when stretched too far, it was always good to have someone else to pick up some of the slack. It was going to be a hectic day leading into more hectic days, but at least I wouldn't be facing them alone.
Jumpchain abilities this chapter:
Workshop Artisan (Bloodborne) 300:
As if taught at the long gone workshop, you seem to possess knowledge and skill with many of their crafting techniques. You have been granted the knowledge and skills needed to both repair and even create your own Trick Weapons and Hunter's Tools. Trick Weapons are weapons with a variety of special abilities relating to their form. The most common type of Trick Weapons are those that can transform in some manner. An example being swords that can lock into specialized sheaths in order to become different weapons, sometimes radically so. Not to say transformation is the only ability, there are also melee weapons with guns attached, and maces that can be charged with unnatural blue electricity to deal massive damage. Hunter's Tools are pieces of equipment with special abilities activated by using Blood Bullets or Quicksilver Bullets as a medium. Hunter's Tools are usually supernatural items that have been made to work using a Blood/Quicksilver Bullet medium, such as the Beast Roar, a beast's claw that when activated, allows the wielder to roar like a beast. Some Hunter's Tools are completely manmade as well, though this is a relative minority. Basically, you now know how to convert things into being activated and powered by Blood Bullets and Quicksilver Bullets. Doing so allows anyone to use them, even if they are completely mundane beings, so long as they have the bullets mentioned above on their person. When making Hunter's Tools, remember that the more power something requires, the bullets the wielder will need. These skills granted to you may be honed over time, just as any other skill can.
Rally (Bloodborne) Free:
After being hurt or damaged in some way, you have a short window of time where bathing yourself in the blood of your enemies will trigger a small bit of rapid recovery. It's never very much healing, meaning you're very unlikely to make a full recovery from anything too serious, but every little bit helps. You don't necessarily have to be drenched in blood, but the amount required to trigger Rally will be quite noticeable.
Blood Bullets (Bloodborne) Free:
At any time, you may sacrifice a significant percentage of your blood to create a small supply of five blood bullets. When loaded into a weapon, they will change shape to match the necessary ammo type. A blood bullet loaded into a pistol will match the caliber, while a blood bullet loaded into a shotgun will become a shell filled with blood buck shot. You may not make any more than five at one time, additional attempts will just pointlessly drain you of blood as the bullets fail to keep shape. A single blood bullet is unable to take the shape of significantly larger projectiles, such as cannon balls, but if multiple bullets with a combined mass equal or at least close to the desired projectile are placed together, they will fuse and assume the proper shape. Blood Bullets are able to become liquid fuel for certain weapons, such as flamethrowers. Blood Bullets are unable to assume the shape of projectiles that are too complex.
Gifts from the Little Ones (Bloodborne) Free:
You are given a choice of one of three trick melee weapons, and one of two projectile weapons. you will receive the two weapons of your choosing one day after beginning your journey. The first trick weapon you may choose is the Saw Cleaver, a saw with large teeth that can flip open to be wielded similarly to a sword. The second is the Hunter's Axe, a large hand axe with a handle that can be extended so it may be wielded with two hands. The third trick weapon is the threaded cane, a sturdy metal cane that can transform into a bladed chain whip. The first projectile weapon is the Hunter Pistol, a quick, simple, high damage weapon that's handy at short to medium range. Your other option is the Blunderbuss, a heavier weapon that fires a wide spread, effective at close ranges, against small groups of enemies.
Bag of Quicksilver Bullets (Bloodborne) Free:
A curious bag full of quicksilver bullets. These bullets are fused with the wielders blood and will prove quite useful during the hunt while facing beasts of various sorts. These bullets, much like Blood Bullets, can assume the shape of larger projectiles by loading them together. The bag is small and easy to carry, but has the odd ability to hold 20 quicksilver bullets at a time.
Bag of Blood Vials (Bloodborne) Free:
Special blood used in ministration. When injected, the user will rapidly recover from minor and middling injuries such as scratches, bruises, gashes, fractures and blood loss. A single vial's worth of this special blood is unable to regenerate lost limbs, large broken bones or other more severe injuries, but more blood injected equals more healing. The bag is given to you full, somehow containing 20 Blood Vials despite its small size.
Hunter (Bloodborne) Free:
Apparently, from what you can gather, you are now a Hunter. This means a number of things, including access to the Hunter's Dream. What that means is that instead of dying, you will wake up in the Hunter's Dream and be able to travel to and from it using Lanterns found around the world. That sounds nice at first, until you realize one of your fellow hunters is a bit too good at this, the mysterious foreign one that is. This Hunter will end the nightmare soon, within a day or two, severing your connection to the dream. There isn't much you can do about it, so enjoy it while it lasts. Another boon of being a Hunter besides being able to visit the dream is the admiration of Messengers, small infantile creatures that can prove useful in some scenarios. I'll explain about them later. Lastly, it seems your new body has some. . .hidden assets. You have an affliction, though one you can control on some level. There's a beast inside you, trying to get out, trying to take you over. Though it takes a bit of concentration, you may temporarily unleash some of this beast's strength in the form of a "Visceral Attack". This attack temporarily transforms your hand into a beastly claw which will slide through the flesh of a prone enemy like a hot knife through butter. Careful not to draw on this power too often though. . . This perk also comes with the Mandatory "Inner Beast" drawback, detailed in the drawback section. ("Inner Beast" - There's a problem with your new body and mind. As previously mentioned, there's now a bestial side to your mind trying to claw its way out and take over, somewhat literally. Drinking or covering yourself in too much blood, consuming items like Beast Blood Pellets, or using/taking various other items or drawbacks like the Beast Claw or "Ignorance is Bliss" will all empower it. If it gets too powerful and manages to take over, transforming you from Hunter into Beast, you lose. There are ways to fight it though. Avoiding or pacing yourself on blood push it down a bit. Becoming more worldly and insightful will weaken it as well. Willpower can slow its power grab, but can't stop it on its own. - Your Inner Beast has been pacified, giving you access to their powers without possibility of losing yourself to them allowing you to more easily use visceral attacks)