Director Emily Piggot sat in her office, the glow of the computer screen casting a harsh light on her tired features. It was evening and she didn't think that the higher command chain would be so swift to respond. But then again, they always were in cases like this. The video conference with Chief Director Rebecca Costa-Brown had been scheduled hastily, prompted by the viral video of Taylor Hebert lifting a container ship with apparent ease.

The Chief Director's stern face filled the screen, her expression unreadable. "Director Piggot, I've seen the video. It's gaining a lot of attention online. I need a full report on this new parahuman."

Emily nodded, her tone was entirely professional now. "Yes, Chief Director. The parahuman in question is Taylor Hebert. She's the daughter of Danny Hebert, a foreman at the Dockworkers Association. Her trigger event was traumatic—she was severely bullied at Winslow High School, culminating in a particularly brutal incident involving Shadow Stalker, also known as Sophia Hess."

Rebecca's eyebrows raised slightly. "Shadow Stalker? Explain."

Emily sighed, a hint of frustration seeping into her voice. "Sophia Hess, operating under the alias Shadow Stalker, was part of a group that systematically bullied Taylor. The incident that triggered Taylor's powers was particularly egregious. Hess' actions not only pushed Taylor to trigger but also violated numerous protocols. Sophia and the group locked Taylor Hebert in her own locker with used tampons and other biowaste. Noone took notice. The janitor was the first one to notice after the school ended. It is safe to conclude that she was locked there for hours."

Rebecca's expression darkened considerably. This was not how they expected their wards to act. It seemed Stalker's presence led her to have such a strong trigger.

"Sophia Hess will be dealt with. But right now, our focus is Taylor Hebert. From what I've seen, her powers are formidable. We can't afford to mishandle this situation. What is the girl's current stance?"

Emily leaned back, choosing her words carefully. "She's shown no interest in joining the Wards. Her initial reaction to our recruitment attempts was to open a restaurant, of all things. However, her powers go beyond what we've initially observed. She can create food out of thin air and apparently has significant strength and telekinetic abilities. I believe that her not joining wards is simply due to her appearance. The girl seems to have developed an inferiority complex due to bullying. Moreover, her trigger, which has resulted in her turning into a pink bubblegum like being, hadn't helped matters. It's probably that she's heavily insecure about the public's opinion and simply wants to work from backstage."

Rebecca's eyes narrowed further. So a strong parahuman with serious inferiority complex and low self esteem. There could be other psychological patterns too. It couldn't be said for sure, not until the girl was checked and observed thoroughly for it. "Director Piggot, it's imperative we maintain good relations with Taylor Hebert. Do not engage her foolishly. We cannot afford another incident like with Sophia Hess. I'm sending Alexandria to speak with her directly. Until then, you and your team are to back off and only observe from a distance. Understood?"

Emily felt a twinge of frustration but nodded. "Understood, Chief Director. We'll proceed with caution."

Rebecca's gaze softened slightly. "I know this is a difficult situation, Emily. But we need to be smart about this. Taylor Hebert has the potential to be a significant asset or a formidable adversary. Let's ensure it's the former. We can be seeing the next Alexandria. Her super strength and ability to create things out of air can greatly help matters."

"We have to add changer powers to her too." Emily interjected, recalling Velocity's and Armsmaster report from the scene.

"I was unaware that she had changer powers. It's not in the file." Rebecca frowned. It was a direct insinuation at Emily. The Chief Director's glare was measure at the Brockton Bay director for not reporting and updating such advances. Those little things could certainly affect in disastrous situations.

"It's not. We hadn't known until Armsmaster mentioned it. Apparently after she triggered, she had a single antenna emanating from her head. However, when Armsmaster saw her today, she was sporting hair made of fine pink strands. We guess that she possess little shape shifting powers." Emily replied calmly to her superior.

"I see. Let's fall back for now. I will wait for Alexandra's report and then give orders to proceed further, likewise." Rebecca Costa Brown concluded with a nod before the video cut off.

The video call ended, and Emily leaned back in her chair, rubbing her temples. The mess created by Sophia Hess had escalated beyond anything she had anticipated. Now, with Taylor Hebert's emergence as a powerful parahuman, the stakes were higher than ever. She sighed deeply, feeling the weight of the responsibility pressing down on her.

The next few days would be critical. As she looked out the window, she couldn't help but wonder how this new player would change the dynamics of Brockton Bay. One thing was certain: they couldn't afford any more mistakes.

Perhaps there was a silver lining to this. Maybe, she could get the funding, she always asked. She could certainly hope so.

Taylor peeked out from behind the curtains, her eyes narrowing at the crowd gathered outside their house. Reporters, curious neighbors, and even a few gawkers with their phones out. She groaned and turned away, walking back into the living room.

"Maybe I shouldn't have used my powers so blatantly in public," she muttered angrily.

Danny, sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee, laughed softly. "I did warn you, kiddo," he reminded her gently. "You're a cape now. Fame comes with the territory. You'll have to tread carefully."

Taylor groaned again, plopping down on the chair opposite him. "I didn't want to become popular. I just want people to mind their own business and not hound me 24/7."

Danny nodded solemnly. "I know, but it's part of the deal. At least the PRT and BBPD are helping to keep the crowd and press at bay."

Just as he finished speaking, there was a knock at the door. Both Taylor and Danny frowned. Danny speculated, "It's probably someone from the PRT or BBPD."

He got up to answer the door, leaving Taylor waiting anxiously. Moments later, Danny returned with a guest, and Taylor gasped in awe.

Standing in their modest living room was Alexandria, her presence commanding and almost unreal. Taylor's mouth dropped open, and she instinctively stood up, trying to make a good impression.

"Alexandria," Taylor breathed, her voice filled with awe and reverence. "I can't believe it... you're here."

Alexandria smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling with kindness as she looked at Taylor. "Hello, Taylor. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Danny stepped back, allowing Alexandria to move further into the room. Taylor felt a rush of excitement and nervousness. Nearly every girl in the world looked up to Alexandria, and here she was, standing in her living room.

"Please, sit down," Taylor offered hastily, trying to regain her composure.

Alexandria sat gracefully. The couch was certainly okay and Taylor didn't want to have Alexandria standing in their house. "Thank you, Taylor. . . . . I heard about your recent display of powers, and I wanted to come by and talk with you personally."

Taylor nodded, her mind racing with all possibilities. Maybe, she was here to chide her on her blatant display of strength. "I... I didn't mean to cause such a scene. I just wanted to see what I could do, and..."

Alexandria held up a hand, her smile never wavering. "It's okay, Taylor. Discovering your abilities is important. But it's also important to understand the impact it can have on those around you. You're incredibly strong, and with that strength comes responsibility."

Danny sat back down, watching the interaction with a mix of pride and concern. Taylor took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "I understand. I just... I don't want to be a spectacle. I want to help, but I also want to live my life."

Alexandria nodded, her expression thoughtful. She looked at Taylor with the same smile. "I understand. Finding that balance is crucial. I'm here to offer my support and guidance. You don't have to navigate this alone."

Taylor felt a sense of relief wash over her. Having Alexandria here, offering her support, made the overwhelming situation feel a bit more manageable. "Thank you, Alexandria. That means a lot."

Alexandria settled into her seat, her posture relaxed yet commanding. She looked at Taylor with genuine interest. "So, Taylor, how's life been treating you since your powers manifested?"

Taylor hesitated, glancing at her father before answering. "It's been... different. I mean, it's a lot to take in. The powers, the attention. It's overwhelming sometimes. I don't think the attention's gonna come down anytime soon. "

Alexandria nodded empathetically. "I can imagine. It's a big change. What about your likes and dislikes? What do you enjoy doing?"

Taylor smiled slightly, feeling more at ease with Alexandria's warm demeanor. It was quite nice of her to ask that. She hadn't thought that. Nobody had asked her these questions for past 3 years. "I like reading, cooking, and spending time with my dad. I used to really enjoy school, but after everything that happened... it's complicated."

"Understandable," Alexandria said. "Do you have any plans for the future? Anything you're particularly passionate about?"

Taylor's eyes lit up a bit. "Well, I was thinking about opening a restaurant. I know it sounds strange, but with my power to create food out of thin air, I thought it could be a way to help people and do something I love." Moreover, it would also promote good will and help with money.

Alexandria's smile grew. "That sounds like a wonderful idea, Taylor. It's not strange at all. Using your powers for something positive and fulfilling is commendable. Do you have any other plans?"

Taylor glanced at her father, who gave her an encouraging nod. "I've been trying to figure out the extent of my powers. I want to see what else I can do, but I also want to stay under the radar. I don't want to draw too much attention."

Alexandria leaned forward, her expression serious yet kind. She opened her mouth and immediately warned her. "It's good to be cautious, but also don't be afraid to explore your abilities. Finding the balance between using your powers and maintaining your privacy is important. Though in your case, it is different. We both know the unsaid. There's no private identity left for you. Whatever it is, it's going to be upto you to handle it. Your actions should be much more measured and considered from now."

Taylor nodded, feeling like a child. She was right. She would have to take her steps carefully now.

Alexandria, still maintaining her composed demeanor, looked directly at Taylor. "I want to make it clear, Taylor, that I'm not here to pressure you into joining the Wards," she began. "However, it's important you understand the benefits and options available to you."

Taylor nodded. She did thought that Alexandria was going to ask her to join the wards. It was afterall the most logical reasoning behind her appearance. She was affiliated with PRT too like Legend and Eidolon.

"The Wards program provides a lot of support," Alexandria continued. "Training, mentorship, and protection. You'll be part of a team, which can be invaluable, especially for a young parahuman learning to control and maximize their abilities. You will get a transfer to Arcadia, a trust fund which shall amass 50000 every year till you turn 18."

Taylor frowned slightly. "But I'll be under constant surveillance, right? Everything I do will be watched." It was the main thing. She didn't trust authority.

Alexandria smiled softly. "There is oversight, yes, but it's for your safety and the safety of those around you. It's not about controlling you; it's about guiding you."

Danny watched his daughter closely, seeing the conflict in her eyes.

"The PRT, or Parahuman Response Team, is the governing body that oversees capes in the United States," Alexandria explained. "We ensure that parahumans operate within the law and provide assistance when needed. The Wards are the youth branch of the PRT, meant for those under 18. It offers structure and resources to young capes like yourself."

Taylor listened intently, weighing the information. Besides, it will be rude to interrupt her.

"Then there are rogues," Alexandria continued with a smirk. "Rogues are independent parahumans who don't belong to any team or organization but operate within the law. If you choose to be a rogue, you can affiliate yourself with the PRT in name. This affiliation provides some level of protection and legitimacy without requiring you to join a team like the Wards."

Taylor's eyes lit up slightly. This was certainly interesting information. "So I could do my own thing, but still have some backing?"

"Exactly," Alexandria confirmed. "You won't have to align yourself with any gangs, and you'll have the freedom to pursue your own goals, like opening that restaurant you mentioned. The PRT can offer resources and support without imposing too many restrictions."

Taylor seemed to be considering this seriously. "What about the rules? If I don't join the Wards, won't I be a target by gangs?"

Alexandria nodded. "There are some rules. Some are called Unwritten rules. These rules typically refer to no killing or using excessive force, no going after secret identities and low collateral damage. The unwritten rules are a set of informal agreements among capes to avoid unnecessary conflicts. They're meant to keep a semblance of order in the chaos that can come with parahuman activity. If you don't join the Wards, you should be aware of these rules and the reasons behind them. They help prevent escalations and maintain a balance of power."

Taylor's protest was immediate. "But that's just letting the gangs run things, isn't it?"

Alexandria's expression turned a little serious. "It's a delicate balance, Taylor. The unwritten rules aren't about condoning criminal activity. They're about preventing all-out war in the streets. If every conflict escalated to a full-scale battle, the collateral damage would be catastrophic. These rules help keep the peace to some extent. Imagine, you as a villain cape. What could the other capes do if you suddenly decide to go full out and start destroying streets and buildings with bare hands. Problems are everywhere, Taylor. Which is why the Unwritten rules exist. They are there to inhibit the darker aspects of cape society."

Taylor sighed, clearly struggling with the concept. Looking at her resignation. Alexandria moved closer to her and squeezed her shoulder gently.

Taylor was surprised by the reaction, so was Danny. "Did you feel something odd?" Alexandria asked with a smile.

Taylor nodded in denial and Alexandria continued with a sad smile. "The force with which I squeezed your shoulder as a comforting gesture. Do you know something about it?"

Taylor frowned. No it hadn't felt anything odd. At her expressions, Alexandria further explained. "The squeezing had enough force to simultaneously crush the ribs of ten individuals together."

Taylor paled hearing it. Danny was no other.

"Even little gestures where we lose control could disastrously result in something which he wouldn't want for ourselves or the people around us. Think about it, we get little lost in our emotions and we can crush a man or woman completely in a simple hug. It is what I was talking, Taylor. Even a little anger on your part could result in death of people you fight or interact with. You have to maintain the force and will carefully all the time." Alexandria said with a sad look on her face. It was one of the saddest things about being a brute.

Taylor watched the sad smile and immediately realised what Alexandria was trying to say. She could imagine the control the woman infront of her needed to have to survive all these years. She had seen videos and heard tales of Alexandria throwing buildings and tons of weight. She could certainly see accidents happening if she wasn't in control of her mind.

"I believe that you should go for Wards. However, choosing to be a rogue means you'll have that freedom. Just remember, even with freedom, there are responsibilities and consequences. The PRT will be here to support you, whichever path you choose. But, it is upto you to choose. Afterall, it's your life which is going to be affected ultimately."

Taylor looked at her father, who gave her an encouraging nod. "It's your decision, Taylor. Whatever you decide, I'll support you."

Taylor took a deep breath and nodded, feeling a bit more in control of her future. "Thanks, Alexandria. This really helps."

Alexandria took a deep breath, her face etched with seriousness. Perhaps, it was wrong to say it now. However, from what she gauged from the girl. It was best, she say it now. Besides, the girl had a good head om her shoulder. She was convinced of it.

"Taylor, I need to apologize on behalf of the PRT," she began, her voice steady yet laden with regret. "You deserve to know the full truth, rather than having it come out later. There's something important you need to know about Sophia Hess."

Taylor's eyes narrowed at the mention of Sophia. "What about her?"

Alexandria sighed, her expression softening with empathy. "Sophia Hess is a Ward. She's been operating under the name Shadow Stalker."

The anger that flared in Taylor's eyes was immediate and intense. "Are you kidding me? She's one of your Wards?"

Alexandria held up a hand to calm her. "I understand your anger, and it's justified. Sophia's actions were reprehensible, and she will be punished. The PRT is taking this very seriously."

Taylor's fists clenched, her voice trembling with rage. "She made my life hell, and she was protected by the PRT? How is that fair?" Besides her, air started ripple. Danny and Alexandria immediately started to feel the air becoming heavy and compressed. Danny for some reason dropped unconscious, meanwhile Alexandria simply looked at the girl infront of her. It was something which she had never seen before. The girl's mood changed the very air and atmosphere around her.

Alexandria spoke slowly, choosing her words carefully. "It appears that Sophia's actions were covered up by Principal Blackwell. Winslow received extra funding for housing a Ward, and since there were no other Wards at Winslow, her behavior went unnoticed. We're taking action against Blackwell and Sophia's handler. This should never have happened."

Taylor's anger didn't abate, her face flushed with fury. She hadn't even noticed her father passing out. "How can you let someone like her be a hero?" Shadow Stalker was no hero. She was a bully. A bitch. Nothing more.

Alexandria sighed again, a deeper sadness in her eyes. "Taylor, there's something you need to understand about how capes get their powers. We call them trigger events. Trigger events occur during the darkest moments of a person's life. These events leave a deep psychological impact. Every time a cape uses their power, they're subconsciously reminded of that moment."

Taylor listened, her anger now mixed with curiosity and confusion. Immediately, the room's air became lighter and more breathable.

"Sophia's stepfather was abusive," Alexandria explained. "She was a victim in her own home, which led her to believe the world is made up of predators and prey. She became the predator to avoid being the prey, which she had been at the hands of her father. Her entire existence revolves around that belief."

Taylor was shocked, the anger in her eyes giving way to disbelief. "She was abused?" Somehow it didn't sit with her. She could never believe that the strong, mean spirited girl could have been abused.

Alexandria nodded. "Yes. And while it doesn't excuse her actions, it helps explain them. She's going to be examined psychologically once her punishment starts. We're hoping to address the root cause of her behavior."

Taylor shook her head, trying to process this new information. "But she tormented me, and now you're saying she was a victim too?" She softly mumbled. She couldn't believe it. She didn't want to believe it. There was no way, it was truth.

Alexandria's expression softened. "I'm not asking you to forgive her. I'm explaining this to help you understand how trauma can shape a person. The same goes for Emma. From Sophia's testimony, we've learned that Emma was nearly raped by ABB boys before Sophia rescued her. Sophia's influence pushed her into a predator mindset as well."

Taylor's eyes filled with shock and sadness. "Emma... almost got raped?"

Alexandria nodded. "Yes. Emma was severely traumatized, and Sophia's worldview offered her a way to cope, however twisted it might be. Apparently Emma wanted you to become strong like her too. She wanted you to lash out towards them, proving you strong in Sophia's eyes. It was what Shadow Stalker told everyone."

Alexandria stood up, giving Taylor a reassuring smile. "I'm telling you this to provide context, not to justify their actions. People are complicated, and their actions are influenced by their experiences. Take your time to process this information. We're here to support you. And I believe, we should take your father to a hospital. He suddenly dropped down, once your aura became heavier." Alexandria said as she pointed Taylor's attention towards her unconscious father.

"Dad!" Taylor cried out immediately seeing her father's unconscious form. "His breathing's normal, I believe it's just stress. However, we can always have Panacea take a look."

Taylor nodded as Alexandria picked her father carefully and hauled him on her shoulders with no effort. It looked so effortless to her that Taylor envied her practised skill immediately.

Panacea moved methodically from one patient to the next, her mind focused entirely on the injuries she was treating. The man in front of her had broken bones, courtesy of a gang fight between the ABB and Empire. With a touch, she healed the fractures, feeling the bones knit together under her fingers. She moved on to the next person, who had a deep laceration across his chest. From the size and shape of the wound, she guessed it was caused by a machete, a weapon frequently wielded by ABB members.

As she reached out to heal the gash, the door to the room burst open. Panacea glanced up, her concentration momentarily broken. Alexandria stood there, carrying a man in her arms. Wait! She turned again. Was that really Alexandria? The costume and build certainly matched the Triumvirate member. Maybe, it was really her. But what the hell was she doing it in Brockton Bay?

Beside her was the purple bubblegum girl who had been admitted to the hospital a few days ago. Panacea's heart sank. She remembered the man now—he was the girl's father. He had been there too.

Alexandria's voice was firm as she immediately extended the command naturally. "Panacea, this man needs your help immediately."

Panacea hurried over once she fixed the laceration. There were no more injuries in any of the people whom police had brought to her. Besides, Alexandria was calling her. Alexandria of all people.

"What happened?"

Alexandria carefully laid Danny down on a bed. "He went unconscious when Taylor raged. Her aura made the air heavier. He couldn't handle it."

Panacea looked at Taylor, whose eyes were wide with fear and guilt. "I'm so sorry," Taylor said, her voice trembling. "I didn't mean to—"

"It's okay," Panacea interrupted, trying to keep her tone calm. She placed her hands on the man's arms, closing her eyes as she assessed his condition. "His vitals are stable, but he's definitely been through a shock."

She concentrated, willing Danny's body to respond to her healing touch. She felt his heart steady and his breathing even out. She carefully tricked the hormones to wake him up. Slowly, his eyes fluttered open.

"Dad!" Taylor cried, rushing to his side.

Danny blinked, looking around in confusion before his gaze settled on his daughter. "Taylor, are you okay?"

Taylor nodded, tears streaming down her face. "I'm fine, Dad. I was so scared."

Alexandria placed a reassuring hand on Taylor's shoulder. "He's going to be alright."

Panacea finished her assessment, pulling her hands away. "He'll need to rest, but he'll be fine. Just keep an eye on him."

Danny reached out, gripping Taylor's hand. "It's okay, Taylor. I'm alright."

Panacea turned to Alexandria. "Is there anything else I need to know?"

Alexandria nodded. "Taylor's body resisted healing the last time she was here. Can you try again?" Alexandria asked with a frown.

Panacea frowned, remembering her frustration. "I'll try." She approached Taylor, her hands hovering over the girl's arm. She concentrated, pushing her power towards healing, but again she felt resistance. It was like trying to force two repelling magnets together. It was frustrating to no end. She just couldn't make sense of it. It was totally a violation of nature's law. Try, she might. But her efforts resulted in nothing.

"I can't," Panacea said, stepping back, frustration clear in her voice. "Her body just... resists. It's like she has no organs or anything. More like a living blob of bubble-gum, no offense though."

Taylor looked down. She was certainly surprised. "It's okay. I don't really need healing anyway." She was really worried by Panacea's claim of her not having any organs. What did she even meant? She usually breathed. Her heart beat. Well, the latter was confusing because she hadn't actually felt it since her trigger. She suddenly realised that she had even held breath underwater for more than 5 minutes while swimming and figuring out the ship. That was certainly not normal for any person.

Alexandria sighed, glancing at Taylor with concern. "We'll figure it out. For now, just focus on staying safe."

Taylor nodded, still holding her father's hand tightly. "Thank you," she whispered, looking at Panacea and then Alexandria.

Panacea gave a small smile. "You're welcome. Take care of him."

Amy looked at the bubble-gum girl. No! Taylor. It was her name. She was probably a Case 53, which is why Alexandria was perhaps dealing with her. She could only think on that particular line of thought. It was weird. But, then again; powers were bullshit.