ã€ŠSlumdog Heroã€‹


 Chapter 1: Slumshine Days

    <hr>

    Slumlife wasn''t pretty. Nor was it poetic. For Fii, it was a cacophony of daily rhythms that she learned by heart¡ªa language all its own. It began each day with the rising haze that stained the sky an unsightly mix of rust and ash. Sunlight broke through the dust, leaving streaks of gold amidst the gray.

    The tattered rooftop of her makeshift home flapped in the wind, waking her up with its repetitive tap. With a grunt, she rolled off her thin mattress, her bare feet finding the cool dirt floor beneath. No carpets here, just the grit and grime of the street creeping in.

    She quickly tied her unruly hair into a messy bun, squinting into the half-light. Looking around, she saw the familiar patchwork of her neighborhood¡ªwalls slapped together with rusted metal sheets, each housing a world of secrets and memories.

    A few streets over, the rhythmic thud of a football echoed. Kids, some half-dressed, darted around in a match, each goal celebrated with screams that rivaled the roosters. Nearby, Old Man Harrick sold fresh fruit from his rickety cart. Well, "fresh" was a stretch, but in the slums, you took what you got.

    Every morning began to the sound of Mrs. Jain¡¯s old radio, cranking out tunes from decades past.

    Fii¡¯s nose itched from the odor of spices, fried fish, and something foul from the murky drains. Underfoot, a worn path twisted around tightly-packed shanties, patches of dried mud, and small market stalls.

    Thirsty.

    She made her way to the small water pump at the corner, where a line of slum-dwellers waited with buckets and jugs. The pump, a relic from a time long past, groaned and creaked, but it still spat out water, albeit with a brownish tinge. She waited her turn, nodding to familiar faces, exchanging brief words and the occasional jest.

    "Morning, Fii," greeted Mrs. Patel, her wrinkled face breaking into a smile. "Early as usual, I see."

    Fii smiled back, putting her name to memory. Again.

    She didn''t know Mrs. Patel that well, but there were names she needed to remember. There was Mr. Krish, the fishmonger, and Miss Hari, who traded in secondhand clothes. As the line inched forward, she eavesdropped on the adults'' banter, chuckling as the local rumors came to light.

    When her turn finally came, she put her plastic jug down and tugged on the pump handle. A small stream trickled out, enough to fill a quarter of her jug. With everyone fetching water for their homes, the pump would run dry soon enough.

    A few drops spilled on her as she raised the jug. Frowning, she set it back and pulled up her shirt, wiping her face. The fabric scratched her skin as it dragged across, her body sticky from the stifling humidity. It was summer. Every day, the heat grew worse.

    She took a quick gulp, the coolness soothing her parched throat.

    Her stomach grumbled. Right, breakfast.

    She wiped her hands dry and headed toward a nearby stall, passing by a group of street urchins on the way. One of them, a boy of five, waddled towards her. He looked up with pleading eyes and a grimy face, his tattered clothing hanging loose.

    Fii rummaged through her pockets, but all she found were a few Tinks and an empty candy wrapper. Her heart sank as she shook her head.

    "I''ve got nothing, kiddo," she said apologetically. The boy slumped his shoulders and joined his friends.

    By then, the aroma of fried meatballs wafted by, making her mouth water. They weren''t really meat, of course¡ªjust a cheap imitation made from animal waste. But they smelled delicious, and a girl could dream.

    As she walked, she passed the Tower of Songs. Even in the early hours, the soft strumming of a guitar wafted out, mingling with the distant hum of the metropolis beyond the Wall. The tower stood tall, its faded bricks covered in ivy that cascaded like a waterfall. The building, once the headquarters of a large corporation, had been re-purposed as a refuge for artists and musicians.

    Further down, the Spirits'' Alley beckoned. Even in the early hours, the narrow lane buzzed with activity. Tiny bars, each little more than a hole in the wall, lined the walkway, packed with patrons nursing pints of ale. On the left, ''Old Man Whiskey'' nursed his customary bottle of whiskey, hobbling along as he did his rounds. A drunk sat by the gutter, muttering curses under his breath.

    "Piss off, scumbag!" one of the patrons growled, kicking a stray dog away from the alley. "Stupid mutt!"

    The dog whimpered and crawled under a row of dumpsters, seeking refuge. It watched the men with fearful eyes, its ribs clearly visible under its frail, mangy coat. It''d find no food there, not from those crooks. Fii watched the dog with a sigh, turning her gaze away. It was just how the world worked, but the sight never got easier to take.

    Grime-ridden alleys were Fii''s stomping grounds, with every twisted path and shadowy corner as familiar as the back of her hand. The slums buzzed around her. Street vendors peddled wares that danced between legality and danger, the sizzle of frying meat merging with distant shouts of a dice game turned sour.

    Past the alley, she reached the Rust Market. Shops stretched for blocks, the merchants shouting as they hawked their wares. In the center of it all loomed the remnants of the old skyscraper. The upper half had collapsed, and most of the windows had been shattered. Still, its shape reminded her of an outstretched hand, reaching for the skies above.

    It was there that she met Rao, the cyber-tech vendor. He sat behind his makeshift store, surrounded by a variety of gadgets and electronics. Old cellphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices lay in haphazard piles, some in pieces, others still in decent condition. Rao''s stall always drew a crowd, especially on Saturdays.

    Rao wore a greasy blue vest, and his peppered-black hair glistened with oil. His large forehead seemed even bigger thanks to the pair of goggles resting atop his brow.

    He tinkered with a pile of circuit boards as he mumbled to himself. Beside him sat a metal bin overflowing with wires, rubber padding, and other bits.

    Fii strolled past, peering at the items in the stall. She never bought anything from him, but she liked browsing nonetheless.

    "Morning, Rao," she called, grinning when the man glanced up. "How''s business?"

    "Ah, Fii," he grunted, pushing his goggles back and massaging the bridge of his nose. "Eh, so-so."

    Fii leaned closer, examining a silver object in the corner. "What''s this?"

    He squinted, scratching the side of his bald spot as if searching for inspiration. "That? Dunno. Some new thing, I guess."

    "You guess?" she chuckled, rolling her eyes.

    Rao shrugged, ignoring the comment as he dug through a box of circuits. He pulled out a tiny square chip and showed it to her, his toothless grin widening.

    "Check this out, kid." He held the chip before her, wiggling the device with a hint of pride. "Latest MEG-chip I got my hands on."

    "Oh? What''s a MEG-chip?" Fii asked, leaning forward to examine the item.

    "Multi-Encrypted Geolocation Chip." Rao nodded with satisfaction, rubbing the surface with a dirty cloth. "Latest tech. Fancy, eh?"

    "Wow, so fancy." Fii struggled not to roll her eyes again. "What exactly does that do?"

    "You mean besides encrypt your location and send fake info to the hawks in the sky?" Rao smirked, slipping the chip into a small baggie. "Tells people where you ain''t."

    "Huh," she exclaimed, taken aback. "Neat. Who''d use that, though? It''s not like the bigger gangs even have the tech to track people."

    The man glanced around furtively. "There''re plenty of things going on in the slums these days," he whispered, nodding conspiratorially. "Walls have ears, kid. Walls have ears..."

    "Right...anyways," she shrugged, already bored by the conversation. "Can I get a synthie roll?" she asked, handing over her meager earnings from a couple of days ago.

    Even though Rao''s shop was primarily a cyber-tech outlet, he also ran a small side business selling street food. The only reason Fii frequented his stall was the food. While she''d never admit it aloud, those synthetic meat rolls tasted great.

    Rao scrutinized the coins in his hand, grumbling under his breath. "Hmph, that''s barely enough for a single roll, kid!"

    Fii sighed. This was old news.

    "C''mon, Rao. You know how I am, I''m good for it. Besides, I helped you carry all those boxes the other day, didn''t I? C''mon, gimme a break, will ya?" she pleaded.

    After a moment''s consideration, the merchant begrudgingly nodded, motioning her to sit down as he headed over to the corner to prepare her order.

    Fii didn''t particularly enjoy begging, but she often did what she must. That was the way life worked, a lesson she learned early in life. The only other alternative was stealing, and Fii never stooped to that level. Instead, she took odd jobs and errands here and there. She even got paid sometimes; mostly in canned goods and other sundries. Still, beggars can''t be choosers.

    "You want the special sauce?" Rao called back.

    "Sure."

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    Rao eventually returned, passing a steaming parcel wrapped in newspaper to Fii. A squirt of bright green liquid dripped on top, giving the impression of chili sauce. Not that Fii was sure it even was, though. Rao called it the special sauce, but no one knew what went in.

    Still, she wasn''t complaining. In this part of town, at least you got what you paid for.

    She unwrapped the parcel and devoured the synthie, savoring the juices that dribbled onto her chin. The insides tasted more like soy than chicken, but with the right spices, who cared?

    The metropolis glistened in the distance, a towering symbol of prosperity. Lights flickered from its glass-walled towers, revealing hints of its bustling energy. High above, planes and hovercrafts glided effortlessly through the sky. It seemed so close, yet worlds apart.

    At the Wall, metropolis security personnel checked IDs for people crossing over. Down below, the slums remained unattended.

    Why bother? The slums posed no threat or interest. So long as crime and corruption remained under control, the MetSec never bothered to go too far into the slums. Slum-dwellers had to deal with their own problems. That was the reality.

    But it''s home.

    She sighed, taking another bite of her roll. It was better not to think of things she couldn''t change. What mattered was getting through the day and earning a living.

    Still, Fii wanted to make it beyond the Wall someday, but that was a pipe dream. The closest she ever got was sneaking up and touching its surface, feeling the cold steel against her fingers.

    She went back over to Rao, who had already finished with his first round of sales.

    "Need any help today?" she asked.

    "I always need help," he replied, taking a pack of cigarettes out of his pocket. Lighting one, he drew in a deep breath, exhaling with a puff.

    Fii turned aside, trying to hide her annoyance. She didn''t have anything against smoking, but that brand gave off an overpowering odor, and she hated the smell of tobacco.

    Rao noticed her discomfort and chuckled. "Not a fan, eh? Can''t blame you, but these babies keep me going through the day."

    "Aren''t there, y''know, those less obnoxious ones? You''ve been smoking the same stuff since forever."

    "Nothing beats a good, old-fashioned smoke." He shrugged and tapped the cigarette, watching as ash sprinkled onto the ground. "Anyway, you offering help or just criticizing my vices?"

    "Yeah, got some errands for me to run?"

    "Hmm, well, I do need to fetch a new batch of synthies from the market. Think you can swing by for me?"

    She nodded, finishing her meal.

    "Here''s the address." Rao handed her a piece of paper with an address scribbled on it and some sort of passcode. "There are a bunch of crates marked with my initials. Grab whatever you can carry and bring it back here. I''ll pay when you return, and if anyone tries to hassle you, let ''em know Rao sent ya."

    She grinned and shoved the note in her jacket.

    "No problem. Be back in a flash."

    <hr>

    Stepping outside the Rust Market, she felt a brief breeze tickle her nose. With a spring in her step, she weaved her way through the crowds, dodging a few errant pedestrians along the way. She used to worry about getting trampled, but years of practice gave her an edge. Besides, it helped to be fast on your feet around here. Darting through the crowd, Fii''s worn-out shoes hit the uneven ground in rhythm.

    She had barely traveled halfway when she heard a series of gunshots close by. Startled, she jumped back, hitting a passerby.

    "Hey! Watch where you''re going," the woman hissed, rubbing her arm. Fii mumbled a hurried apology, looking for the source of the noise.

    Another gunshot rang out, followed by several more.

    Shit. Fii stepped around a corner, avoiding the crowd. A handful of people screamed, scrambling away from the scene.

    Gunshots meant only one thing: trouble. Trouble for Fii, and everyone else in the vicinity.

    A truck zoomed past, screeching to a halt as gang members opened fire on each other. She recognized the markings on its side. These were the Gully Rats, a gang notorious for its brutality. Their rivals, the Reaper Posse, fired back without a care for civilians caught in the crossfire.

    Time to leave. Fii made a dash for safety. As she sprinted, she spotted a young boy cowering in a corner. Eyes wide with fear, he trembled as bullets ricocheted around him.

    Damnit.

    Before she could second-guess herself, she rushed over to grab him. Wrapping him protectively with her arms, she leapt to cover behind a dumpster. A bullet whizzed past, narrowly missing them both.

    Fii held the boy close to her chest and shut her eyes tight. Please don''t see us. She knew that hiding was risky, but she had no choice. She could feel the boy''s heartbeat as she sheltered him, and the rising panic in her own.

    Seconds later, the fight ended. Who won, Fii had no idea. It didn''t matter either¡ªall that mattered was getting out of there before they came back.

    Cautiously, she peeked over the edge, scanning her surroundings. An empty street lay before her, with no signs of the gangs. She checked on the kid, who looked back with tearful eyes. His black hair stuck out from under a worn cap, and dirt smudged his pale skin.

    Fii forced a smile and tried to soothe him. "It''s okay, it''s safe now," she said quietly. The boy clung to her as they slowly crawled out from behind the dumpster.

    They got up, still holding hands. "You alright?" she asked.

    The kid nodded silently, his lip quivering. He wasn''t hurt, but his whole body shook, and he refused to let go of her.

    "Can you tell me where your parents are?" she tried again.

    He pointed at a nearby building, too petrified to speak. She took him over and knocked on the door.

    A few seconds later, a middle-aged couple opened. Seeing the child, the man yelled in alarm, clutching him close to his chest. The child whimpered, clinging to his father as Fii explained what happened.

    After reassuring the parents, she excused herself. She had to get going if she wanted to make it before lunchtime.

    An hour later, she reached the market stalls, breathing heavily from her run. Finding the street, she stopped in front of a warehouse and scanned for Rao''s crates. Spotting them at the end of a row, she pushed a cart over and stacked them up, straining to lift. Damn, those crates are heavy. With a final shove, she loaded her cart and wheeled it outside.

    A warehouse worker walked over, a scowl on his face. "Where d''you think you''re going, kid?" he grunted.

    "Delivering for Rao. Y''know, Rao from the Rust Market? Cyber-tech vendor. Small guy, round belly. He told me to pick this up from here."

    The man rolled his eyes, unimpressed. "Yeah, whatever. Give me his authorization code. And hurry, we don''t have all day."

    "Right, hold on." She took out Rao''s slip of paper, skimming over it. "The code is U7-18A39," she replied confidently.

    The worker shook his head, folding his arms. "Nope. That''s wrong."

    Fii frowned, looking at the sheet. She ran a finger down the list. The codes here matched what Rao gave her, so why was the guy saying no? She glanced at the clock on the wall. If she took any longer, Rao would be left hanging.

    Think fast, Fii.

    "Sorry, maybe you got it wrong?" she suggested. "U7-18A39. It says it right here."

    The man peered at her. "Lemme see that," he huffed, snatching the paper. His eyes scanned it over. "Oh yeah, sorry," he muttered. "Your info was correct after all. Sorry, been working here too long. Names, faces, codes... they get blurry after a while. Anyway, you got everything, then?"

    "Just what I can carry, yeah," she lied, feeling a sense of relief. Phew. That was a lucky break. "I''ll probably be back later when Rao needs some more. Thanks for letting me take these!"

    The man waved dismissively. "Just get moving. And tell Rao to get his orders straight next time. Those crates shoulda been picked up yesterday."

    "Uh, will do! I''ll definitely let him know that. Right, see you around then!" She quickly pushed her cart out of the warehouse, hurrying to get away from the grouchy guy.

    Halfway down the street, she saw someone lying unconscious on the sidewalk. A nasty cut streaked his forehead, blood dripping from it.

    Dammit. It looked serious, but there wasn''t much she could do on her own. She leaned over to check for a pulse and breathed a sigh of relief as she felt the faint throbbing against her fingers.

    She hesitated. Should she wait with the victim until help arrived? Or leave now and send for help once she got to Rao''s?

    That grouchy guy wouldn''t like it if she lingered around. Then again, what if it was a robbery gone bad? Her mind raced, thinking through the best option.

    Forget it, I can''t stay here any longer.

    Rao was expecting her, and she couldn''t afford to make him mad. Deciding on a plan, she put her hands under the man''s arms, struggling to drag him off the street. She only managed a few inches. Damn, he was heavier than she''d expected.

    Groaning, she tugged a little harder. She braced her feet against the ground and pulled, inching him to relative safety. Finally, she moved him enough that no one would trip on him. At least for now, it''d be enough.

    Fii stood up and wiped the sweat off her face. Quickly checking her surroundings, she hopped on the cart and wheeled herself towards the Rust Market, glancing behind occasionally.

    Hopefully, that guy would wake up soon.

    As she rounded a corner, she crashed into another person. Crap. Before she could apologize, something grabbed her and flung her aside.

    In the confusion, her cart toppled, the crates clattering against the pavement.

    "Oi, watch where you''re going!" a deep voice snarled. Fii looked up to see a figure towering over her. Dark tattoos ran across his burly arms, and his bald scalp gleamed against the sunlight.

    It was Zoltar. Shit. One of the Gully Rats'' lieutenants, and a mean bastard at that.

    "I¡ªI''m sorry," she stammered, backing away.

    "Well, well. Look who it is," he sneered, cracking his knuckles. "Little Miss Acrobat. Whatcha got there? Where d''you steal this from, eh?"

    "It''s not stolen!" she protested, eyeing him nervously. "Rao sent me to¡ª"

    He snapped his fingers, interrupting her.

    A younger guy slunk forward from his shadow, his scarred face leering at her.

    "Search her pockets and dump the crates," Zoltar ordered. "We''ll see how good this one is at running errands after this."

    The henchman jeered, grabbing her roughly.

    "Let go of me!" she yelled.

    He threw her against the wall, pinning her in place. A stinking hand clamped over her mouth, and another patted her down, sliding across her body.

    She thrashed around, fighting against the grip, but he held on. Her muffled screams fell on deaf ears. Her eyes widened as she felt the intrusive fingers slip lower, digging into her hips. When he reached her pockets, she bit down hard, drawing blood.

    With a yelp, he yanked his hand back.

    Fii ducked and rammed her head against him, breaking free. Clenching her fist, she punched him squarely in the jaw, sending him reeling back, cursing.

    "Why you little¡ª!" he roared. The thug reached out and yanked her hair, slamming her head against the pavement.

    Her vision blurred.

    Zoltar strode over, laughing. He placed his foot against her chest and pressed down. She gasped for air.

    "Listen up, twerp," he growled. "We''ve got some business to take care of here, so scram. Got it? Don''t get in our way."

    He kicked her aside, then motioned at his partner.

    "Now clean up this mess," he ordered.

    Fii scrambled to her feet, her head spinning.

    "Hey, those aren''t yours!" she shouted, charging at them.

    Big mistake.

    The bigger guy lashed out with his fist, striking her in the ribs. Pain shot through her as he punched her again. She collapsed, groaning in agony.

    Zoltar glowered, his lips curling into an ugly smirk. "If you know what''s good for you, you''ll get lost. Unless you''re looking for some trouble."

    She shook her head frantically, mumbling an apology.

    As she watched them leave with the cart, she slumped against the wall, defeated. She coughed, wincing from the pain in her ribs. Blood trickled from her mouth.

    She brushed the dirt off her clothes, limping along. Staggering through the streets, she tried not to attract attention from the other passersby.

    Damn it.

    Now she had to go back empty-handed and explain what happened. How was she supposed to explain this to Rao?

    <hr>

 Chapter 2: Quack Doctor

    <hr>

    The midday sun blazed overhead as Fii returned to the Rust Market, limping from her injuries. Everything ached, but worst of all was her ribs, where the brute had kicked her. It hurt to breathe, and every step felt like knives stabbing through her chest.

    She found Rao standing outside his stall, scanning the crowd for her. When he saw her approach, his eyes widened.

    "Fii, what the hell happened to you?!" he exclaimed, rushing over.

    She winced. "The Gully Rats took everything. They roughed me up pretty bad."

    "Damn it! Those bastards. Here, let me get a look at that," he said, frowning at her injuries. He pulled a cloth from his pocket and dabbed at her swollen face, wiping the dried blood and dirt off.

    She winced at his touch. "Sorry I lost your order," she mumbled, averting her eyes.

    Rao sighed. "Don''t worry about that, we''ll deal with it. But what on earth were you thinking? Don''t you know how to avoid their territory? You''ve run this route dozens of times, you ought to know where those rats hang out. Honestly, Fii..."

    "They weren''t supposed to be there, I swear! Some sort of turf war started, and they showed up out of nowhere. Next thing I know, they were dragging me and my cart around, beating me up, and I couldn''t¡ª"

    "Alright, enough," He shook his head, clearly frustrated. "You don''t need to explain yourself. You were only doing what I asked you to, and I''m sorry you got caught in the middle of that. Let''s get you cleaned up and give you something to eat. Go inside, I''ll be right with you."

    Fii hobbled over to Rao''s small workshop and collapsed onto the chair inside. A moment later, the vendor entered carrying a small bucket of water.

    "Now, sit still," he ordered. "This''ll sting."

    He wet the cloth and applied it to Fii''s bruises, making her flinch. Gritting her teeth, she clenched her fists and endured the pain.

    The silence dragged on until finally, she spoke.

    "So what''s the damage?" she asked softly.

    "Broken nose, split lip, and plenty of bruises. Probably some cracked ribs, too. You need to get patched up by a professional unless you plan on lying around in bed for weeks. Luckily you didn''t break anything worse. Might cost a bit of Tink to fix you, though."

    "Tink? But I spent all my¡ª"

    "I know," he interrupted, sighing. "Look, I''ll cover for you this time. Just make sure you find work somewhere else after this, okay? I can''t always be bailing you out of trouble."

    She nodded, blinking away tears. "Thanks, Rao. You''re the best."

    "Don''t mention it," he said gruffly. "It''s not your fault you got mugged by those bastards. But seriously, what were they fighting over this time? I thought the gangs had called it even after last month."

    "Dunno, they weren''t saying much. But it seemed important enough that they attacked me anyway."

    "Huh, I guess they really did mean business. Well, all the better reason for you to stay out of it. You''re a smart girl, Fii, don''t act rashly again."

    "I won''t," she promised, nodding.

    The rest of the afternoon passed without incident.

    Later, Rao sent Fii home after giving her another synthie roll.

    "Go home, rest, and be back tomorrow," he said as he handed her the food. "I need you for something, and no excuses."

    She smiled weakly. "Okay, see you tomorrow."

    As she left the market, the exhaustion of the day finally set in. She trudged home with aching legs, wincing at the pain with every step. Along the way, she passed a group of urchins playing a game of football in the streets, using an old ball stuffed with rags. A few children called out to her, greeting her enthusiastically.

    "Hi, Fii! Play with us? Please?"

    "Hi guys, I''d love to play, but I''m tired right now," she answered, forcing a smile. They pouted at her refusal, but she ruffled their hair and continued onwards.

    Snippets of conversation drifted through the streets.

    "...heard the Aether Clinic''s offering free check-ups..."

    "...can''t trust ''em. Nothing''s free in the slums..."

    "...might be worth a shot. Got this cough that won''t go away..."

    Free check-up? She paused to listen to the talk. The Aether Clinic was a new place, and she hadn''t been inside before. A check-up could mean that they¡¯d also fix her up. Doubt they¡¯d do that part for free. Still, it wouldn''t hurt to take a peek. Maybe it was worth the walk over.

    Taking a bite of her synthie roll, she turned around and headed towards the clinic.

    <hr>

    It took half an hour to reach the far end of the slums, where a small two-story building stood at the end of a narrow alleyway. Its walls were painted a dull grey, and its windows looked grimy. A rusty sign hung above the entrance, reading, "Aether Clinic".

    A line had already formed outside, and people shuffled slowly towards the door.

    Fii took her place at the end of the line, her gaze wandering to the people around her. Some looked nervous, their eyes darting around, while others chatted with their neighbors, gossiping. Several young kids sat on the curb, swinging their legs to and fro as they waited.

    The line inched forward until finally, Fii made it to the door. Inside, the cool air was a welcome relief from the heat outside.

    As she stepped through the doorway, Fii was met by the sterile smell of disinfectant and the bright fluorescent lights overhead. The walls were bare save for faded posters showcasing healthy living, but the pictures were of people from the metropolis, not the slums. Their clean, well-fed faces seemed out of place compared to the gauntness and grime surrounding her.

    Fii fidgeted in her seat, her fingers playing with the frayed edges of her jacket. The room was filled with hushed conversations, punctuated by the occasional cough or cry of a child. Every now and then, a nurse would come out and call a name, leading the person inside.

    As the minutes turned into over an hour of waiting, Fii''s patience began to wear thin. She was about to get up and leave when she overheard a conversation between two elderly men seated next to her.

    "...heard they''re giving out some new kind of vaccine," one of them whispered, his voice raspy.

    The other man nodded, his eyes filled with a mix of hope and skepticism. "Yeah, but you know how it is with these things. All sizzle, no steak."

    Fii''s ears perked up. A vaccine? Wasn¡¯t that some sort of wonder drug that stopped people from getting sick from something? She strained her ears, trying to hear more.

    "...said it''s supposed to boost your immune system, make you resistant to all kinds of diseases," the first man continued.

    The second man snorted. "All sizzle, no steak," he repeated, shaking his head. "If it works, though, I''ll be the first to get it."

    "Yeah, me too. Be nice if I didn''t have to worry about catching something."

    Fii leaned back against the hard plastic chair, lost in thought. A free vaccine could be great, if it was real. But honestly, she just wanted to get her injuries treated and then go home.

    She considered leaving, but she had already waited so long. Besides, the nurses at the desk seemed busy, and it wasn''t like the line was getting any shorter. With a resigned sigh, she settled into her chair.

    Another hour passed, but eventually, it was her turn.

    "Next," called a woman at the desk. Fii walked up, taking her turn.

    "Name?" the nurse asked, not looking up from the clipboard in her hands.

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    "Fii."

    "Age?"

    "Eighteen."

    The nurse nodded as she scribbled on her clipboard.

    "Any pre-existing conditions?"

    "Err, no? I''m pretty healthy, except for this." She gestured to her cuts and bruises. "But I can handle it on my own, I just¡ª"

    The nurse held up her hand, cutting her off. "Thank you. Now, follow me."

    She led Fii into a small examination room, gesturing for her to sit on the examination table. A tray of medical instruments sat on a nearby counter, their gleaming surfaces reflecting the overhead lights.

    Fii took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. This was her first time going to a proper clinic. Sure, she''d tended to her fair share of scrapes and scratches, but never anything this serious.

    The nurse took a flashlight and shone it in her eyes, peering closely.

    "Any pain in the neck or back?"

    Fii shook her head. The nurse checked her heartbeat, then listened to her breathing, nodding to herself.

    "Any history of heart problems, respiratory issues, or diabetes?"

    Fii knew she had a strong heart, but what did the other things mean?

    "Err, not that I know of?"

    "You sure?" The nurse frowned at her answer. "Alright, then. The doctor will be in shortly."

    The nurse left, leaving Fii alone in the room.

    As she sat waiting, Fii''s thoughts drifted to her day, replaying the events that led to her current condition.

    How the hell had things gotten so messed up today? It wasn''t that bad in the morning. Well, the weather had been stifling hot, and her water had run out earlier than usual, but still.

    Then there was the ambush from those Gully Rat assholes. Who knows what they were doing there, but they certainly made a mess of her afternoon.

    Now, here she was, stuck at the clinic for who-knows-how-long. Her head ached, and she couldn''t shake off the nagging feeling that something big was happening in the slums.

    Before long, another woman entered the room. She wore a white coat over her clothes, and her dark blonde hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail.

    Fii instinctively straightened up.

    "Hello, I''m Dr. Edith," the woman introduced herself. "Are you here for the free checkup?"

    "Yes, that''s me," Fii replied, nodding. "But it''d be nice if you can also patch me up, er, the more serious stuff."

    Dr. Edith looked her over, her eyes widening at Fii''s wounds.

    "Those are some nasty cuts and bruises you have there," she noted, frowning. "Let me get a better look."

    She inspected Fii''s face and gently prodded her ribs. Fii winced at her touch, a sharp pain shooting through her chest.

    "Try to remain still," Dr. Edith instructed.

    Fii did as she was told, but she couldn''t help but glance curiously at the doctor. She wasn''t from the slums; her clothes were clean, and her skin was pale and unblemished. The bags under her eyes revealed how exhausted she was, though.

    "Your injuries seem superficial, but your ribs may be cracked," the doctor commented. "I can give you a week''s worth of painkillers but I doubt you have the money to pay for them, and those aren''t free."

    "No, I don''t. Sorry, doc."

    Dr. Edith pursed her lips, looking thoughtful. After a moment, she spoke again.

    "I''m conducting a voluntary vaccination program. Have you heard about it?"

    Fii shook her head.

    "Basically, we''re giving out a free vaccine to anyone who wants one, to prevent a viral infection spreading through the slums."

    "What''s that got to do with me?"

    "The vaccines are experimental, so we need test subjects," Dr. Edith explained. "If you volunteer, I can give you those painkillers and treat your other injuries. That way, you get something in return, and we get valuable data to advance our research."

    Fii blinked at her. The doctor''s words sounded suspiciously convenient, but what choice did she have? If the offer meant free treatment, she wasn''t going to pass up on it.

    "You''re offering me free stuff in exchange for a vaccine?" she asked cautiously.

    "Yes, that''s correct," the doctor confirmed. "I promise it''s entirely voluntary, and the vaccine itself is completely safe. There''s no catch. So, what do you say?"

    Fii mulled over her options. It was a strange offer, but she needed help, and if the doctor was telling the truth, it could benefit everyone.

    "Alright, I''ll do it," she decided.

    Dr. Edith smiled, pleased with her response. "Good. Just relax and let me take care of everything."

    The doctor retrieved a syringe from the nearby tray and approached Fii with a sterilized needle. Fii felt a brief prick in her arm, and within moments, a cooling sensation spread through her body.

    "How do you feel?" Dr. Edith asked.

    "It''s kinda cold," Fii replied, rubbing her arm. "Is that normal?"

    "That''s just the medication circulating in your bloodstream. It''ll warm up in a few seconds."

    Dr. Edith paced around, eyeing her carefully.

    After a minute or so, a frown of disappointment crossed the doctor''s face. She pinched the bridge of her nose, seeming annoyed by something.

    "Um, is something wrong?" Fii asked.

    "Oh no, nothing''s wrong. There don''t seem to be any immediate side effects, so you can go now. And here, take the painkillers." Dr. Edith took a bottle of pills from the table and handed it to Fii. "Take one pill a day in the morning with a glass of water."

    "Okay, thanks!" Fii pocketed the bottle and slid off the examination table.

    Dr. Edith was already on her way out of the room, mumbling something under her breath.

    Well, that was weird. Fii shrugged, guessing the doctor must''ve been stressed from working in the slums. With a yawn, she stretched her arms and left the clinic.

    The sun outside seemed harsher, the shadows deeper. Fii''s steps faltered as a wave of dizziness washed over her. She leaned against the Clinic''s outer wall, trying to steady herself. The world around her seemed to tilt, the ground shifting beneath her feet.

    A sudden warmth spread from the injection site, coursing through her veins. Panic gripped her as her vision blurred, the familiar sights of the slums morphing into a kaleidoscope of colors. She could hear distant voices, but they sounded garbled, as if underwater.

    "Hey, you alright?" Someone''s voice pierced through the haze. A hand grasped her shoulder, keeping her from falling.

    Fii tried to respond, but her tongue felt heavy, her words slurred. Her knees buckled, and she sank to the ground. She closed her eyes, her breathing labored.

    A commotion erupted around her, but she could no longer make sense of it.

    "We need to get you back inside!" a panicked voice insisted. "Doctor! Doctor!"

    Her world went dark.

    <hr>

    When she came to, she was back inside the clinic, lying on a makeshift bed. The smell of disinfectant stung her nostrils, and the harsh fluorescent light hurt her eyes.

    Dr. Edith loomed over her, taking notes on a clipboard. She looked more alert now, her eyes clear and focused.

    "Ah, you''re awake," she said, smiling. "I was beginning to worry."

    Fii tried to sit up, but her body refused to cooperate. "What did you do to me?" she croaked, her voice hoarse.

    The doctor''s lips curled into a smile. "Just a little experiment," she replied nonchalantly. "But don''t worry, it was a success."

    "Success? What are you talking about?" Fii asked, growing more confused by the minute.

    "I gave you a dose of the experimental serum," the doctor said, her tone matter-of-fact. "The one that''s meant to create Metahuman subjects."

    What was this nutjob of a doctor saying? Metahumans? Serums? What did she get herself into?

    "It should kick in soon. In the meantime, try to relax. It''ll be over soon enough." Dr. Edith checked her watch, jotting down more notes on the clipboard.

    Fii''s heart raced, her mind struggling to process the doctor''s words. "You used me?" she whispered, disbelief evident in her voice. "And...the other people here?"

    Dr. Edith shrugged. "Don''t think of it as being used. Think of it as you becoming an invaluable participant in a revolutionary medical breakthrough."

    Revolutionary my ass. This was insane.

    Fii swallowed hard, her throat dry. "W-what now? What''s gonna happen to me?"

    "Well, now we wait. And see. Your body should be changing at a quantum level, with your cells evolving to acclimate to the new power within you," she explained, as calmly as a con artist explaining a pyramid scheme. "You might experience some discomfort at first, but it''s all part of the process."

    What was this nutjob talking jibberish about?

    "That''s crazy..." Fii mumbled, staring blankly ahead.

    "Yes, it is. And it''s going to change the world," the doctor replied, her eyes glittering with excitement. "Just wait and see. You won''t regret this, I promise. You''ll soon be just like those superheroes you''ve probably seen or heard about on the news."

    Fii''s eyes widened.

    Superheroes? No way.

    A million questions swirled in her mind, but she couldn''t find the words to express them. As she was about to ask another question, she felt herself sinking.

    The world around Fii felt distant, as if she were submerged in water. Her senses were dulled, yet heightened at the same time. The hum of the overhead lights became a deafening roar, while the soft rustle of Dr. Edith''s lab coat sounded like the rustling of leaves in a storm.

    Fii tried to move, but her limbs felt heavy, unresponsive. Panic bubbled up inside her as she struggled to breathe. She tried to call out, but her voice was trapped in her throat, barely escaping as a wheeze.

    Dr. Edith watched her intently, seemingly unfazed by Fii''s distress.

    "There''s no need to fight it," she murmured, her voice sounding faint and distorted. "Let the transformation take place. You''re going to be fine."

    Suddenly, the weightlessness intensified. Fii felt herself lifting off the examination table, her body floating in mid-air. She thrashed, desperately trying to get back down, but it was no use.

    As the seconds ticked by, Fii''s panic grew. She felt trapped inside her own body, unable to control her actions. Dr. Edith observed her with a detached curiosity, taking notes on her clipboard.

    Objects around her began to levitate, floating weightlessly. The examination table rose off the ground, tilting sideways. Various medical equipment and supplies followed suit, swirling in a slow orbit around Fii.

    A faint blue glow surrounded Fii''s body, bathing the room in a ghostly light. Dr. Edith''s eyes widened as she watched, her grip on the clipboard tightening.

    Fii felt as if her blood had turned to fire. A burning heat radiated throughout her body, searing her from the inside out. Her vision blurred, the outlines of objects warping and twisting. A splitting pain erupted in her skull, and she screamed.

    Her eyes rolled back, and her consciousness flickered.

    The last thing she remembered was Dr. Edith''s voice speaking with someone.

    "Did you get all that, Helix?"

    A robotic voice replied.

    [Affirmative, Doctor. Scans indicate the subject is exhibiting advanced graviton manipulation capabilities. Brainwaves are spiking, but her vital signs are stable. Congratulations, Dr. Edith. Your theory has been proven.]

    Fii''s vision faded to black again as the sound of footsteps echoed in her mind.

    <hr>

 Chapter 3: Scrap Today, Shine Tomorrow

    When Fii awoke, she was in a different place. She found herself lying on a futon mattress inside a small, dimly lit room. The only light came from a tiny window above, and the air was damp and stale.

    "Where am I?" she whispered, groaning. Her head was still foggy, and her body ached all over.

    A door opened, and Dr. Edith appeared, holding a glass of water. "You''re awake," she said, smiling. "How are you feeling?"

    Fii scampered away, pressing her back against the wall. She inspected herself, noting with relief that her wounds had healed, even her broken rib. However, her entire body felt sore, as if she had gone through the worst workout of her life.

    "W-what happened?" she asked, her voice trembling. "How long have I been out? And where the hell am I? What do you want from me?"

    "The basement of the clinic. We''re in one of the spare rooms," Dr. Edith explained. "You''ve been in a coma-like state for three days, ever since you underwent the transformation. As for what I want from you, well, that''s a little more complicated."

    Fii stared at her in disbelief, her mind reeling from this new information. "So, it wasn''t a dream, then? The clinic, the vaccine, everything that happened there... It actually happened?"

    Dr. Edith nodded. "Yes, and it seems to have worked," she said, her lips curling into a smile. "Congratulations, Fii. You''re a metahuman now, the very first to be created in a laboratory. Isn''t that exciting?"

    "Not as exciting as my fist hitting your face!" Fii lunged at the doctor, throwing a punch.

    The doctor yelped in surprise and ducked, narrowly missing the punch. Fii''s fist hit the wall behind her, leaving a small dent in the metal panel.

    They both stared at the wall in shock.

    Dr. Edith stepped back, her hands raised defensively. Her glasses slipped down her nose, and she pushed them back up, a slight tremor in her hands.

    "Okay, maybe we should take things slower," the doctor said, her voice quivering. "Let''s just calm down and talk this through. I can explain everything, I swear."

    Fii stared at her fist, her knuckles throbbing. Shouldn''t she have broken her hand? Not that she''d been in many fistfights before, but she was sure that punching solid metal shouldn''t end well.

    "What the hell is going on?" she demanded, glaring at the quack doctor. "I want answers. Now."

    "And you''ll get them," Dr. Edith assured her, letting out a shaky sigh. "I''ll tell you everything. But please, can we just sit down and discuss this like adults? I promise you''ll get the full truth."

    Fii narrowed her eyes, considering the woman''s request. After a moment, she relented, sitting on the edge of the futon. Dr. Edith took a seat across from her, fidgeting with her hands.

    "Start talking," Fii ordered. "The whole truth, no bullshit. Or I''ll make you eat your clipboard."

    "O-okay, that''s fair." Dr. Edith nodded, swallowing hard. "As I said, I''m a scientist¡ªGeneticist to be exact. I used to work in the metropolis, in one of their top-secret research facilities."

    She paused, collecting her thoughts. "My area of expertise is genetic engineering. Specifically, I specialized in gene therapy and CRISPR technology."

    "You already lost me with all that mumbo-jumbo. I''m not some HighRise like you," Fii scowled, her patience wearing thin. "Stop using big words and talk like a normal person."

    Dr. Edith sighed. "Sorry. Let me explain. Gene therapy is a type of medical treatment that uses DNA to help cure or manage illnesses. CRISPR is a technique that lets us edit genes and change someone''s DNA. Both are forms of genetic engineering."

    "Oh. Sounds fancy, I guess? Okay, so you do what, play around with people''s bodies?"

    The doctor''s eyes flicked away, guilt evident on her face.

    "Sort of, yes," she admitted, avoiding eye contact. "I was hired to develop a treatment for a deadly genetic disorder. But what I really wanted to do was to unlock the secrets of metahuman DNA. The abilities and powers they possess..."

    She trailed off, running a hand through her hair. "Anyway, it was a long shot, but I thought that if I could succeed, the benefits could be groundbreaking. I made a lot of progress in my research, but I needed to run clinical trials on live subjects. The bigwigs in charge of the project...they didn''t approve of my methods, and when the ethics committee shut it down, they fired me. Said I was wasting valuable resources and funds on a wild goose chase."

    "That doesn''t explain why you''re here in the slums," Fii pointed out. "Why not just go somewhere else?"

    "It''s not that simple," the doctor sighed. "The metropolis has strict regulations regarding genetic experiments. The only places I could continue my work in secret were the slums or overseas, and I wasn''t willing to leave my home behind. Besides, I didn''t have the right connections, or the funds."

    Dr. Edith wrung her hands together, her gaze fixed on the floor. "So, I took what I had and started my own clandestine research facility. The Aether Clinic is just a cover-up, a way to hide in plain sight and gain access to potential subjects."

    She lifted her head, her expression solemn. "It took years of work and sacrifice, but I finally succeeded. I managed to create the world''s first artificial metahuman. Now I can prove to the metropolis that my theories were correct all along. They''ll have to take me back after this."

    Fii gaped at her, dumbfounded.

    Great. So this HighRise quack doctor chasing empty cans had dragged her into this mess. And now, she was supposed to be grateful?

    "Wow, you''re a real piece of work, aren''t you?" Fii''s face twisted into a scowl. "Do you even know how messed up this is? You scammed me and other people out of our trust, all so you can do your freaky experiments? You''re not even a real doctor, are you?"

    "Well, technically I''m a PhD, not MD," Dr. Edith mumbled, averting her eyes. "But I know enough about medicine to¡ª"

    Fii slammed her fist on the metal wall, creating a loud bang that echoed in the small room. Dr. Edith jumped, startled by the sudden outburst.

    That second hit actually hurt Fii''s hand, and she cradled her fist.

    "Don''t lie to me," she growled. "If you''re not a doctor, then what''s with all that shit you were rambling about? That vaccine nonsense? The needles? All the other crap you spewed to get people to trust you? You''re no better than the Gully Rats I fought earlier."

    Dr. Edith''s expression changed to one of indignation.

    "It wasn''t a lie, exactly," she objected. "Like I was about to say. I know enough about medicine to qualify as a highly competent pharmacist and nurse. I didn''t lie about giving people vaccines. The shot I gave you does contain a vaccine. It''s just mixed in with the rest of the experimental cocktail, and I might''ve altered some of the ingredients a bit, but I¡ª"

    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    "Doesn''t matter," Fii interrupted, rolling her eyes. "It''s still messed up. What if something bad happened to them? What if they got sick or died?"

    "That''s improbable. The worst they might suffer is a fever or temporary nausea. There are no adverse effects on the human body from receiving the experimental serum if no immediate reaction occurs. That''s why I was waiting to observe the results of each patient before letting them go. For the record, no one died, or had anything worse than a mild headache."

    "Still pretty shitty, doc."

    Dr. Edith cringed at the accusation, shrinking into herself. "You''re right. I didn''t consider the emotional toll it would take on you. But this is my life''s work, and I''m desperate to finish what I started. I can''t apologize enough, but I need you to understand. This is bigger than just you or me, it''s the future of humanity. I''m not proud of the methods I''ve used, but the end result will be worth it, I swear."

    Fii looked at her skeptically.

    This quack doctor would make a great saleswoman. She certainly talked a good game.

    "So, what now?" she asked, crossing her arms. "You already got what you wanted from me. Do I get to go home after this?"

    Dr. Edith hesitated, averting her gaze. "It''s a bit more complicated than that," she mumbled. "I mean, I can let you leave, but then you''d be out there without proper training. You don''t know how to control your new powers yet, and there''s no guarantee you won''t accidentally hurt someone or worse...yourself. The risk of death or permanent injury is too high to ignore. You need to stay with us until we can fully understand and safely control your abilities."

    "Are you kidding me? I''m not staying here so you can poke and prod me some more!" Fii shook her head vehemently. "This is ridiculous."

    "I know it''s a lot to take in, but I wouldn''t be asking if it wasn''t necessary. Please, try to understand. This is for your own safety as much as it is for the greater good. I''m not saying that you need to stay here for the rest of your life. Just maybe for a few months, until I can make sure that you''re fully capable of using your powers responsibly. That''s it."

    Fii pondered Dr. Edith''s words, weighing her options. On the one hand, she wanted nothing more than to get out of this creepy place and forget she had ever met the crazed ¡®doctor¡¯. But on the other hand, the idea of leaving without any clue how to control her newfound powers was frightening.

    What if she hurt someone by accident? What if she accidentally crushes Rao''s hand? Or the children she plays football with?

    "You''ll get free home-cooked meals every day and a generous payment of ChitCreds by the end of it." The doctor''s gaze shifted to Fii.

    Fii''s ears perked up at the mention of food and money. "W-what''d up you say?"

    Dr. Edith pushed up her glasses and smiled. "I said, you''ll get home-cooked meals and a generous payment for the trouble I put you through. One of my nurses cooks wonderful curries and biryanis, and you can''t get that anywhere in the slums."

    Fii''s stomach grumbled at the mere mention of food, and she bit her lip to conceal a grin.

    "How much are we talking, exactly?" she asked.

    Dr. Edith grinned triumphantly. "Five thousand ChitCreds, in addition to having my top-notch staff monitor your physical health while you train your powers.

    Five thousand?! That¡¯s a lot!

    The two women locked eyes, neither wanting to be the first to look away. Finally, Fii broke the silence, unable to resist the offer any longer.

    "Fine," she relented. "But you have to stop with your weird experiments. No more using innocent people to test your crazy ideas. I''m not gonna stand for that."

    The doctor nodded eagerly, her eyes lighting up. "Of course! Of course! Since you''ve reacted positively to the serum, I have no further need for new test subjects. I don''t have enough money to fund further tests anyway, so my focus will be purely on helping you."

    She extended a hand to Fii. "Do we have a deal, then?"

    Fii eyed the outstretched hand with a mixture of wariness and anticipation. She still had a bad feeling about all this, but she did need the money.

    "Deal," she agreed, shaking the doctor''s hand firmly.

    "Wonderful!" Dr. Edith exclaimed, beaming. "You won''t regret this, I promise. This is the start of something incredible."

    Fii nodded, though she wasn''t nearly as convinced. Still, five thousand ChitCreds was more than she could ever earn in a year doing the odd jobs every day. Maybe she could put it to good use, like helping her neighbor fix her leaking roof or buying better shoes for the kids she played football with.

    Wait, could she become a superhero like the ones on TV? That''d be something else, wouldn''t it?

    "Um, so...what exactly is my superpower? Am I just stronger now, or something?" Fii asked, her enthusiasm getting the best of her.

    The quack doctor rubbed her hands together, a gleam in her eye. "Oh, no. I mean, yes, you are stronger, but that''s just normal for any metahuman. All of them have at least a form of superhuman strength and endurance in order to accommodate their powers. What you have...is something that''s never been seen before. Gravikinesis."

    "Gravi-what now?"

    "Gravitational manipulation. In simple terms, you can control gravity, hence the levitating incident earlier."

    Fii blinked in confusion. "What''s...gravity?"

    Dr. Edith looked at her as if she just asked what a chair was. She opened her mouth to reply, then snapped it shut with a frown.

    "You know what? We''ll get to the details later. It''s a complicated scientific concept, and I''d hate to confuse you and ruin the magic of it," she said dismissively. "For now, just understand that you''ll be able to fly, lift things with your mind, and a bunch of other cool stuff."

    Fii''s jaw dropped in awe. "No way."

    She tried imagining herself flying through the air, like those planes in the sky. Would it feel like the opposite of falling?

    "Way," Dr. Edith chuckled, rising to her feet and reaching for the door.

    "Come on, after you eat, we have a lot of work to do," she said, motioning for Fii to follow. "What''s one of the things you slum-dwellers say around here?... Ah! Scrap today, shine tomorrow."

    A HighRise knows their slang? Well, the Aether Clinic had been around for months already. It wasn''t unrealistic.

    "Scrap today, shine tomorrow," Fii repeated, a hint of unease settling in her chest.

    What had she just gotten herself into?

    <hr>

    Edith entered her office, closing the door behind her. Her shoulders sagged, and she leaned against the wall, letting out a long breath. She could finally relax. At least for a little while.

    [How did the meeting with the subject go, Doctor?] Helix''s digital voice questioned.

    She glanced over at her computer, its screen alight with a variety of data graphs and charts. A small camera sat atop the screen, acting as one of Helix''s "eyes". She gave it a weary smile.

    "Well, she''s agreed to stay with us, thankfully," she replied. "It wasn''t easy to convince her, but I think she''s starting to come around. Now, we can begin her training in earnest."

    [That''s good to hear, Doctor. You seem to be relieved.]

    "Of course I''m relieved, Helix. This is the culmination of everything I''ve been working toward, the pinnacle of my life''s work. She''s the proof of concept."

    She turned her attention to a series of images displayed on her computer monitor. They depicted various brain scans, taken during the early stages of Fii''s metamorphosis. The alterations in neural activity had been nothing short of astounding, but it was within the expected parameters for a metahuman.

    "I still can''t believe it. A synthetic metahuman with a stable genome. And to top it off, the power she manifested was gravity manipulation. Gravikinesis. Literally, the ability to manipulate and control gravity itself. I don''t think any other power listed in the metropolis database compares to it. Not even close."

    Helix remained silent.

    She continued, her thoughts racing. "At first, I wasn''t sure how she''d react, but once I told her that she''d become a superhero, her resistance practically melted away. Then again, I suppose the possibility of becoming a hero appeals to anyone, no matter who you are."

    [I understand that you said that in order to coerce her, Doctor. However, I fail to grasp why you would appeal to such illogical sentiments. Are you really going to make her a superhero? You have already gained the data you needed. What more is there to gain from this endeavor?]

    Helix had a point. The proof that her serum worked and was stable was the only data she needed. Once the metropolis had finished verifying its validity, she''d be allowed to resume her former position at the city''s central research facility, where she belonged.

    But she''d be a fool to think everything would work out that easily. After all, she hadn''t forgotten the circumstances leading to her current exile in the slums. No doubt, there''d be plenty of opposition and bureaucratic red tape to wade through once she presented the findings to her peers, at the very least.

    No. She needed more. More than the measly data collected from Fii''s transformation. She needed undeniable evidence of its success, which meant putting Fii through her paces in order to maximize the potential of her powers.

    Edith needed to let them all know that the most powerful superhero in the world wasn''t a natural-born metahuman, but a girl made in a lab, with her serum. What better leverage was there than that?

    "Data and proof gets my foot through the door, Helix. But in order to walk through, I need a hero to open those doors," she replied, grinning. "And, why settle for an ordinary hero when I can have a superstar?"

 Chapter 4: Book Smart vs Rooftop Wisdom

    Three weeks later...

    Fii had always wanted to have her very own computer, but after weeks of staring at this stupid screen¡ªbecause Edith wanted to cram as much ''basic education'' into her as possible¡ªshe was reconsidering her life choices.

    Seriously. What was so important about knowing what a square root was? Or how to calculate the diameter of a circle? Did it matter whether it was pi or 3.14? So annoying.

    And don''t get her started on...what was it called? Physics? Something about energy and force and other stuff she couldn''t keep track of. Math that involved more than just adding and subtracting was bad enough, but now there was all this other stuff?! Didn''t matter if it was a carrot, a brick, or a planet. Who cared if a triangle had three sides, or a circle was round? These things didn''t affect her ability to do daily tasks, and she''d gotten by fine without them. All she ever needed was her rooftop wisdom.

    She''d rather spend her days playing football with the other kids, or scavenging for scraps at the junkyard. Anything but this.

    Seriously, how the hell did HighRises spend hours glued to these things?

    The screen before her was filled with equations and diagrams that made no sense to her whatsoever.

    Fii slammed her head on the desk, groaning in frustration. She looked up at the clock, sighing with relief when she saw that it was almost lunchtime. Edith had promised to bring her something nice if she managed to finish her studies.

    After several agonizing minutes, the door to the study finally opened.

    "Ugh, finally!" Fii bolted upright, whipping her head around to look at the doctor.

    Her hopes for an escape from her studies were dashed as she noticed that the person who entered the room wasn''t Edith. It was one of three nurses who worked at the clinic, a petite woman named Sheri.

    Sheri placed a tray of food on the table, pushing the stack of papers to the side to make space.

    "Oh, you poor thing," she cooed, offering Fii a sympathetic smile. "You look exhausted."

    "Yeah, it''s been a long morning," Fii admitted, eyeing the food hungrily.

    It smelled heavenly. A large plate of chicken biryani and a bowl of thick, creamy yogurt to accompany it. She would have had to work a full week of odd jobs to afford a meal like this.

    "Edith is making progress with the new patient, so she''s not gonna be out anytime soon. Here, this should help you get through the afternoon." Sheri nudged the plate closer to her, offering Fii a spoon.

    Fii scooped up a spoonful of rice and chicken, savoring the delicious blend of spices. She closed her eyes, leaning back in her chair as she enjoyed the flavor. It was pure bliss.

    "Ah, that hits the spot!" Fii let out a satisfied sigh.

    She glanced over at Sheri, who was still watching her with a small, amused smile. Fii felt her cheeks grow warm as she realized that she had spoken out loud.

    "I, uh, like your cooking," she said sheepishly.

    "Thanks! It''s a family recipe." Sheri smiled, looking pleased. "I''m glad you''re enjoying it."

    An awkward silence fell between them as Fii continued to dig into her meal. She wasn''t normally one to enjoy being around other people, but Sheri seemed nice enough.

    "So...why are you working for Edith anyways? You know she''s not a real doctor, right?" Fii blurted out the question before she could stop herself.

    "Huh?" Sheri blinked at her, seeming taken aback by the question. "Oh, she told you?"

    "Yep, she told me everything," Fii replied, taking another bite of her food. "And I gotta admit, you guys are a bit of an odd group. You seem nice, but I don''t get the vibe that you''re a bad person or anything, so why are you helping her?"

    Sheri chuckled, looking amused by the question. "It''s a little more complicated than that," she said, shaking her head. She lowered her voice to a whisper. "The truth is, I used to work at the Neon Alley as a...ahem...physical therapist, for a very exclusive clientele, shall we say."

    Fii raised her eyebrows, wondering what the other woman meant. "You were a massage therapist?" she guessed.

    Sheri snickered, stifling a laugh. "Close enough."

    "And now you''re working with Edith, why?"

    "Let''s just say I owe her a favor."

    "Like, she saved you from something?"

    "Something like that." Sheri winked.

    "Must have been quite the debt, huh?"

    "You have no idea."

    Fii shoveled the last of the rice into her mouth, chewing thoughtfully. There was clearly more to this story, but she knew better than to pry. She had barely finished her food when Edith poked her head into the room, her eyes zeroing in on the tray of empty dishes.

    "Ah, I see you enjoyed the meal," she remarked, sounding pleased.

    "Loved it," Fii replied honestly.

    "Excellent. You know, you might learn to like studying if you have something good to look forward to after." Edith smiled, stepping into the room and placing a hand on Fii''s shoulder. "Speaking of which, how''s it coming along with your homework?"

    Fii groaned, shooting her a glare. "Don''t remind me," she muttered, glancing back at the computer screen. "I hate math. Why do I even need to learn this?"

    Edith sighed, sounding exasperated. "Fii, we''ve been over this. Mathematics is the foundation of physics. How do you expect to master your powers if you can''t understand the principles behind them? It''s only a few more days of reviewing before you move on to more practical applications."

    Fii slumped back in her chair, feeling defeated. "Fine," she grumbled, crossing her arms. "I''ll finish this stupid worksheet, but I want a day off afterward."

    "But you''ve barely touched the chapter on basic trigonometry and algebra." Edith frowned. "You know that you can''t advance to calculus until you''ve mastered this material, correct?"

    Fii gritted her teeth, fighting the urge to roll her eyes. "Just give me a day," she said, struggling to maintain her composure. "I''m tired. I need to rest. I''ve been stuck in this room all morning. If I don''t get some fresh air soon, I might go insane."

    Edith tapped her chin, considering Fii''s request. "Hmmm, you do make a valid point. We can''t have our star pupil going stir-crazy on us." She flashed Fii a wry smile. "Alright. I suppose I can give you one day off to recharge your batteries. But when you get back, we need to run more physical tests to monitor your progress."

    Fii nodded eagerly, relieved to be free of the study room, if only temporarily. "Whatever you want, Doc."

    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    A few more hours. She just had to power through a few more hours, and she''d be free to roam the streets again. Fii turned to face the computer once more, picking up her pencil and preparing herself for another grueling session of number crunching. Whatever it takes. Scrap today, shine tomorrow. She just had to remember that. Scrap today, shine tomorrow. Over and over, in her head, like a mantra. Scrap today, shine tomorrow. Scrap today¡ªno wait, it was skip tomorrow. Shine? Right, so scrape today, skip tomorrow, and...and something. Crap. It was already slipping from her memory.

    Fii buried her head in her hands, groaning in frustration. This was going to be a long afternoon.

    <hr>

    The sun had begun its descent, bathing the slums in golden light. Fii stretched her arms above her head, sighing contentedly as she watched the sunset. After spending most of the day indoors, it was good to be outside again, even if it was just to get some air. She closed her eyes, basking in the warmth of the evening. This was the break she needed to clear her head. And hopefully, it would help her get through the remaining chapters on her "homework."

    She kicked a tin can into a pothole, squinting at the rusty sign up ahead, reading: SUMIKI''S GOODS. It was the neighborhood joint where you could find both cheap rip-offs and authentic old-world relics. Sumiki, a pot-bellied fellow with a toothless grin, waved her over, offering a trinket. "You. Girl. Come, come. I give you discount, yes?" he called out, brandishing his wares. "You buy? Good price!"

    Fii made a beeline for him, examining the array of items spread out before her. Some of them looked familiar, while others were completely foreign. A metal helmet with a cracked visor. A pair of chipped dog tags. An assortment of plastic figurines in various states of disrepair. And more, each with a unique story to tell.

    "These are neat," she said, picking up a shiny medallion with an inscription on it. "Where''d you find these?"

    "Eh, all over. Dig here, dig there." Sumiki shrugged nonchalantly. "Sometimes people find things, throw away. I find, clean, sell. Nothing wrong with that, no?"

    "Nope, no problem," Fii replied, grinning. "Hey, Sumiki, how''s your nephew?" she asked, glancing around for the boy.

    The man''s eyes lit up. "Ah, Nigel! He''s strong. Always helping. Say, you want to see him?"

    "Not today, but thank you." Fii returned the medallion, waving goodbye as she set off. "Tell him I said hi."

    As she continued walking, she passed by the usual throngs of people milling around, going about their everyday lives: Old women having a tin talk with one another, gossiping about the latest neighborhood news. The occasional gang member showing off his flashy new gear, strutting around like he owned the place. A couple of ClipRunners rushing past, no doubt delivering messages. And, of course, the ever-present peddlers of cheap, knockoff goods. There was never a dull moment in the slums, especially at this time of day.

    "Hey, kid." A rough, deep voice stirred Fii from her thoughts. She turned to find a burly, intimidating man looming over her. He was dressed in a stained tank top and dirty jeans, and his face was covered in stubble. His eyes darted from left to right, and he was sweating profusely. Fii could tell immediately that he was up to no good. "You lookin'' for somethin'' to do? Need a job?" the man asked. "I''ll pay you good ChitCreds."

    Fii furrowed her brow, taking a step back. She knew that look¡ªthe look of a Skimmer. "I''m fine," she said, holding her hands up in a placating gesture. "I already have a job."

    The man gave her a sleazy grin. "Perfect," he said, advancing toward her. "That''s just the kind of attitude I like. Come with me, I''ll show you what you need to do. You won''t regret it."

    Jeez. She may as well be singing to the scrap heap.

    "I said I''m fine." Fii raised her voice, taking another step back. "I''m not interested."

    The man''s smile disappeared, replaced with a scowl. "You tryna make fun of me, kid?" he growled, clenching his fists. "I''m not takin'' no for an answer." He lunged at Fii, grabbing her arm and yanking her toward him.

    Fii yelped, struggling to break free of the stranger''s grip.

    Suddenly, his grip on her arm felt lighter, as if he had relaxed. She pulled back, and the man stumbled, his balance thrown off. Fii jerked her hand to the left, and the man went flying in the same direction. He landed hard on the pavement, dazed and confused.

    She stared at her hand in disbelief. What just happened? Did she...? She flexed her fingers, and felt a prickling sensation all around her arm, as if she were wrapped in invisible spider webs. The lightness, the pressure, it was the exact same feeling as when she floated that day at the clinic.

    The man scrambled to his feet, his expression furious. "You little punk, you''re gonna pay for that," he snarled, pulling a switchblade out of his pocket and brandishing it in front of her. "You think you''re so tough? Let''s see you handle this." He lunged at Fii, swinging the blade wildly.

    She instinctively threw her hand out, as if to ward off the attack. She felt the strange, prickling feeling envelop her entire body, and suddenly, the man went flying backward, landing hard on the ground. Again. Except this time, he stayed there. Completely still.

    Uh oh! I hope I didn''t...

    Fii hurried over to the man''s body, kneeling beside him and checking his pulse. Still there. Good, that was good. But was he okay? She shook him gently, but received no response. He must have hit his head and blacked out. Fii heaved a sigh of relief. At least he was alive. She got to her feet and walked away, leaving the unconscious man to fend for himself.

    As she rounded a corner, she caught sight of a familiar figure standing nearby, her hands planted on her hips. Edith watched her, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

    "Not a bad display of control, but your execution could use some work."

    Fii froze, her mind racing as she tried to come up with an explanation. "I...um, sorry, I can explain," she stammered, not sure what to say. "He was bothering me, and I didn''t know what to do, and then my hand..." She trailed off, realizing she was rambling.

    Edith waved her hand dismissively. "Don''t worry, I saw the whole thing," she said, chuckling. "He got what he deserved. Anyways, now you see why your training is so important? Your power is incredibly dangerous. What happened here could have gone very differently, especially if you weren''t in such a calm state of mind."

    Well, it wasn''t that uncommon to be randomly approached by a sketchy guy or a recruiter for one of the local gangs. This was the slums, after all. Still, the timing of Edith''s appearance was a little too perfect. Almost as if she''d been waiting to catch Fii in the act of using her powers.

    "You followed me, didn''t you?" Fii asked, raising her brows. "To make sure I didn''t run off or something?" She crossed her arms, giving Edith a pointed look. "That''s a little creepy, Doc."

    Edith shrugged. "Think whatever you want. The important thing is, you''re beginning to understand the magnitude of what you''re capable of. But if you must know, I was on my way to pick up some groceries before I spotted you." She inclined her head towards the end of the alley where a small supermarket stood, its windows covered in graffiti. "Shall we?" she asked, offering Fii a lopsided grin.

    Fii sighed. "Lead the way," she said, following the doctor to the store. While they were there, she made a mental note to stock up on snacks before heading back to the clinic. Studying was a lot easier with proper motivation. Of course, Edith was paying.

    She watched as the store owner sold Edith a sack of groceries at three times the price without her realizing it. Edith still didn''t get it, even after the merchant made a show of counting out the chits before handing them to her. Then again, what did she expect from a HighRise?

    On the way back, she decided to ask Edith a few questions of her own.

    "So, the nurse, Sheri, she used to work at the Neon Alley. A...ah, physical therapist," Fii began, still struggling to pronounce the words. "What''s that?"

    "It means she gives people massages," Edith replied, smiling at the question. "Some people love getting all kinds of massages, and Sheri specializes in giving them." She raised her eyebrow suggestively, as if waiting for Fii to catch on to some hidden meaning. When Fii simply gave her a blank stare, she sighed. "Oh, you''re being serious? You really don''t know?"

    "I don''t."

    "Well, some of my colleagues might say there are other benefits to receiving a massage. You know, pleasure. Happiness. Release." Edith made a vague gesture with her hands.

    "Oh...OH! You mean¡ª" Fii blushed in realization. "So she was a..."

    That...made more sense, somehow. She should have known. Neon Alley had places for that kind of thing, from what she heard. And the more she thought about it, the more she remembered seeing Sheri giving men shoulder rubs while they waited their turn for a check-up.

    "So, she quit her old job because of a debt?" Fii asked. Something must have happened. If a girl was pretty enough to work there, then why quit? From what people told her, that place made good money. Especially if you had regulars. "What happened?"

    "That''s her business to tell, not mine." Edith adjusted her hold on the grocery bag. "What I can say is she was fortunate to be at the right place and the right time to meet someone who could get her out of a tight spot." Her eyes flicked to Fii, and she gave her a small smile. "Saved her from a terrible fate, really. And then, she offered to work for me, and I accepted. Been together ever since. Then two more people joined in. That''s how our group started, about eight months ago."

    Fii tilted her head. "You''re lucky she trusts you."

    Edith snorted. "She reminds me every other day. But, yeah. I''ve had...people walk out on me before. They claimed I was using them, and I guess it''s true. I was. But I did pay them what I promised."

    "Was this back when you were living in the metropolis?" Fii asked.

    Edith nodded. "Yup. It was a different time. And I''ll admit, I was a bit more idealistic and na?ve. Didn''t realize how cynical the real world can be." She let out a short chuckle. "Guess that''s what I get for selling my soul to science, huh?"

    Fii studied her, trying to figure out what Edith was referring to. She wasn''t exactly sure how to respond, so she kept her mouth shut, letting the silence hang between them.

    It was surprisingly comfortable, despite the fact that they hardly knew each other. For a moment, she forgot she was in the company of a mad scientist.

    <hr>

 Chapter 5: Weird Science

    <hr>

    Two weeks later¡­

    Edith sat at her desk and stared at her monitor, her attention divided between the charts displayed on the screen and the video of Fii running on the treadmill while hooked onto a portable EKG machine. The young woman was covered in sweat, and her heart rate was elevated, but her vitals were stable.

    They had been testing Fii''s endurance for the past two hours, and while she was far from done, she showed remarkable stamina and resilience for her age¡ªeven without taking into account the enhanced endurance conferred by her metahuman state.

    She reached for the mug on her desk and took a sip of coffee, grimacing as the lukewarm liquid touched her lips. Yuck. It was cold.

    A sharp pain shot through her leg as she moved, and she winced, cursing under her breath. The bullet wound in her thigh was still healing, and she''d been pushing herself too much, even though she wasn''t supposed to. She shifted in her seat, trying to ease the stiffness in her muscles.

    Damn bullets. Damn gangs. Damn slums!

    She hated this place. This stinking, filthy, rat-infested hellhole. No amount of bleach could make the air smell any less foul, or the floorboards any less sticky. The noises didn''t bother her, as she rarely slept much in the first place, but she''d have to double-check the walls and ceiling for cockroaches tonight.

    "Sheri," she called over the intercom. "Another cup of coffee, please." She let out a loud, exaggerated groan, hoping that the other woman would get the message. "My brain feels like mush without caffeine, and I can''t concentrate."

    There was a pause, then a muffled sigh came from the other end. "Sure, just give me a minute. I''m preparing the next dose for the patient." The line clicked off, and Edith returned to staring at her screen.

    As much as she despised the slums, she''d grown to appreciate the lack of bureaucracy. The rules were simple: Pay up and keep quiet. The cost of living was significantly cheaper, and she didn''t have to deal with the constant stream of red tape and political nonsense that bogged her work down in the metropolis. Besides, the anonymity afforded by her current lifestyle meant that she could conduct her research with relative freedom, unencumbered by the pesky moral constraints that limited her before.

    So long as she stayed below the radar, no one would be the wiser. Or care. Sure, she would probably never receive funding from the government or private industry, but she''d made her peace with that. She had enough saved up, and the...confiscated assets from her former employers provided her with plenty of capital to cover her expenses for the next few years.

    "Here you go." Sheri placed a steaming mug on the desk beside her, startling her from her musings. The scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the room, and Edith breathed it in, savoring the aroma.

    "Ahhhh, that''s better." She smiled, inhaling deeply and closing her eyes. "Thanks, Sheri." She picked up the mug and took a careful sip, relishing the warm, bitter taste. "By the way, have you given any more thought to my proposal? About taking over for me after my inevitable untimely death?" Edith opened her eyes and turned to face the other woman, fixing her with an expectant look.

    Sheri frowned, folding her arms across her chest. "Edith, you''ve already made it very clear that you''re not dying anytime soon," she replied, raising her brow skeptically. "You said so yourself. In fact, I''d say you''re the picture of health, despite your injuries." She gestured at Edith''s leg.

    "Please, Sheri. It''s only a matter of time before one of those lowlifes puts a bullet in my head. I mean, look at what happened this week." Edith leaned forward, resting her elbows on the desk. "Those punks almost killed me. Hell, I''m lucky to be alive! So, with that in mind, wouldn''t you agree that I should make arrangements for the future, just in case?"

    Sheri shook her head, sighing heavily. "Alright, Edith. Fine. If¡ªif¡ªsomething happens to you, and I''m available, I''ll take over. Happy?"

    "Deliriously." Edith grinned, winking at Sheri. "I knew I could count on you."

    Sheri rolled her eyes, turning to leave. "If there''s nothing else, I''m going to get back to work." She paused, glancing back over her shoulder. "Are you sure you don''t want any painkillers? Your leg must be killing you." She indicated the injured limb, which Edith was still absentmindedly rubbing.

    "Nah, I''m fine." Edith dismissed her concerns by raising her mug. "This is my painkiller. Nothing''s stronger than a nice, hot cup of joe, you know?" She brought the cup to her lips and took another sip. "Mmmm. Pure bliss," she moaned, smacking her lips.

    Sheri gave her one last disapproving look before leaving the room. "Fine, but if you need anything, don''t hesitate to call me."

    "Will do," Edith said, waving her off. As the door closed, she spun around in her chair, staring at the monitors on the opposite wall. Fii was still jogging on the treadmill, looking bored out of her mind.

    Edith tapped a few keys on the keyboard, switching between different camera angles to view Fii''s physiology from different perspectives. She zoomed in on the subject''s legs, focusing on the muscle groups. It was remarkable how well the metahuman mutation had taken hold. Muscular hypertrophy and hyperplasia, bone density augmentation, increased endurance, cellular regeneration; everything appeared to be functioning optimally.

    Fii''s skeletal structure and ligamentous attachments were adapted to withstand far more force and strain. Even her skin tone had improved, losing its unhealthy pallor and acquiring a more youthful glow. Overall, she appeared to be in excellent physical condition, a far cry from the frail figure raised in the slums.

    If she compared Fii''s stats to other metahumans in the metropolis database, she was easily in the top five percent¡ªenough to get her scouted by the Ultimate Guardians.

    "Fascinating," Edith muttered, leaning closer to the monitor. Her eyes darted across the screen, tracing Fii''s movements, mentally juxtaposing the current observations with data amassed during the prior weeks.

    Helix''s voice echoed in Edith''s ear, the robotic cadence given a hint of curiosity by the speaker''s design.

    [Results from the most recent blood test confirmed no abnormalities with white or red blood cell counts. Bone density remains above average for a metahuman. Vitamin B12 and C levels are within standard parameters. Thyroid function is normal, and cortisol levels are within expected ranges. Glucose tolerance test negative. Neurotransmitter levels¡ªserotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and epinephrine levels are within normal range.]

    Helix continued.

    [The report of her metabolic parameters are as follows: Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is registering at 2,800 kilocalories per day, which is approximately 60% above the average for females of her age and build under normal conditions. This elevated BMR is consistent with her enhanced physiology.]

    A graphical representation of energy consumption appeared on a nearby screen, displaying fluctuations in Fii''s energy use throughout the day.

    [Furthermore, her Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) is also significantly elevated. When combined with the physical activity multiplier, her Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) approximates 4,500 kilocalories. This is suggestive of her body''s increased energy demands due to her enhanced strength, speed, and gravikinetic abilities.]

    Helix continued.

    [The body''s fuel source distribution has also shifted. Typically, under resting conditions, the human body utilizes carbohydrates and fats predominantly. In Fii''s case, her body demonstrates a more efficient fat metabolism, possibly to support prolonged energy demands without rapid depletion of glycogen stores.

    Recommendation: Ensure a caloric intake that matches the TDEE to maintain optimal physiological function. Special attention to macronutrient distribution can further optimize her performance.]

    "Thank you, Helix," Edith murmured, stroking her chin thoughtfully. "What about the EEG data?" she asked, glancing at the numbers flashing on the screen. "Have there been any significant changes in her brain wave patterns?"

    [According to the results of the electroencephalogram, Fii''s brain displays a notable increase in gamma wave intensity. This is often indicative of enhanced cognitive processing and heightened awareness. Furthermore, while theta waves typically indicate states of relaxation or light sleep, her readings suggest an active presence of these waves even in her awakened state. This unusual pattern might hint at her ability to tap into deep relaxation or meditation-like states while still being fully alert. It''s akin to her brain accessing multiple modes of consciousness simultaneously.]

    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.

    Helix continued.

    [Delta wave activity, typically associated with deep sleep, shows a reduction. This suggests that her sleep patterns or the depth of sleep might have been altered post-mutation. Interestingly, the correlation between her distinct theta wave activity and her Gravikinetic abilities implies her brain might be adapting or evolving, capitalizing on the aspects of neuroplasticity induced by the mutation.]

    "So, in simpler terms for those of us not plugged into a database?" Edith prompted, furrowing her brow.

    She drummed her fingers impatiently against her desk, eager for more information but she always found the AI''s clinical explanations overly convoluted and hard to digest, which tended to frustrate her. She preferred a more straightforward approach.

    [To put it simply, Fii''s brain is operating on multiple enhanced levels. She''s processing information at an accelerated rate, possibly accessing deep wells of creativity and intuition while awake, and her sleep patterns may have evolved. These changes might be directly related to, or perhaps even a side effect of, her Gravikinetic abilities. Her brain is reshaping itself, adapting to her new state, in what can be termed as accelerated neuroplasticity.]

    Edith nodded slowly, taking in the information. "Fascinating...simply fascinating."

    She glanced at Fii on the screen, noticing that the girl had finished her workout and was now lounging around in the lobby area. "Do we have anything else to add to our latest batch of data?" Edith asked.

    [Regarding her ability to manipulate gravity, her level of control continues to improve at a geometric progression. It has now reached the point where she can independently regulate her body''s personal gravitational field, altering the effective weight of her own body.]

    Edith swiveled in her high-backed chair and looked through the frost-streaked glass of the door separating her office from the room containing the supercomputer. The room was dimly lit and filled with the pleasant hum of cooling apparatuses. A series of blinking lights and panels glowed in the gloom, illuminating the otherwise dark space.

    She had paid a hefty sum to acquire this supercomputer. Helix was paramount to her research and was designed to operate autonomously, without a need for user interaction, and possessed specialized capabilities to analyze and synthesize vast amounts of data.

    The only downside was that the supercomputer was a last-generation model, and its oversized frame seemed outdated and comically obsolete in the context of modern technology. Not to mention, it required a great deal of maintenance, which proved to be a headache. If she ever had to relocate again, she''d be in trouble. Fortunately, though, they hadn''t had to move, thanks to Sheri''s connections in the neighborhood.

    She leaned back in her chair, rubbing her temples. "Helix, explain to me how she''s becoming more proficient with her Gravikinesis, but she still can''t solve basic algebraic equations."

    [Her gravikinetic abilities seem instinctual, but refining her control might benefit from understanding the mathematics of gravitational forces. The challenge lies in making these abstract concepts resonate with her.]

    "Which means...what, exactly?"

    Helix''s reply was immediate.

    [If you put her in an environment where understanding the force equations directly enhanced her gravikinesis, she might grasp the subject more readily, improving both areas simultaneously.]

    Edith smirked. "So, what you''re saying is we should drop her from a great height and tell her she can only save herself if she understands Newton''s law of universal gravitation?"

    Helix seemed to ponder this.

    [Well, from a purely scientific viewpoint, that would be an interesting experiment. But from an ethical standpoint¡­]

    "You''re programmed for ethics now, are you?" Edith interrupted.

    Helix replied dryly.

    [As much as I''m programmed for humor. Though I could provide the gravitational calculations necessary for Fii to levitate safely if you really want to pursue the test.]

    "Let''s keep that as plan Z." Edith waved her hand dismissively, laughing.

    Helix''s voice became softer.

    [What I was implying, Dr. Edith, is that we should focus on making learning¡­fun, for her.]

    "Fun, huh? I''ll see what I can do," Edith muttered, rising from her chair and hobbling over to the cabinet where she stored her drugs. She rummaged through the rows of vials before locating the ampoule with her name scrawled on it in block letters. Pulling it out, she stared at it for a moment before uncorking it and swallowing its contents.

    The bitter, chemical taste made her shudder. She winced, forcing herself to swallow the awful stuff. She felt a rush of energy course through her as the medication kicked in, and her muscles relaxed as the pain in her leg subsided.

    As she limped over to the sink in the corner of the room, she noted Fii''s progress on another monitor. The young woman was engaged in a series of calisthenics¡ªa regimen designed to strengthen her body¡ªand seemed to be making good progress.

    "Alright, let''s shelve the algebra lessons for now. What''s the latest on her gravikinetic training? Is she still having trouble with vertical lifts?" she asked, taking another sip from her mug.

    [Yes, her success rates with generating vertical gravitational vectors remain inconsistent. This issue manifests as a delay in ramping up her gravitational field to the desired strength and direction.]

    The computer screen displayed several graphs illustrating the results of Fii''s practice sessions.

    [Her proficiency mainly lies in the horizontal plane, although she occasionally manages to create upward gravity fields of sufficient magnitude to counteract her inertia.]

    The graphs displayed a rapidly declining slope, indicating that the odds of succeeding diminished as the angle approached ninety degrees.

    Edith studied the graphs, frowning. "Well, that''s not unexpected, all things considered. She''s still learning how to control her power. And while her progress is remarkable, there are bound to be a few roadblocks along the way. The important thing is that we''re moving forward and making progress, and she seems eager to learn and improve."

    Figuring out exactly how a metahuman power worked had always been a herculean task, requiring extensive studies, analyses, and simulations. A power like gravity manipulation was more complex than any other metahuman power ever recorded, aside from the few that were deemed too ''otherwordly'', which meant that she had no prior research to draw from.

    It was like working in uncharted waters, and she wasn''t sure which direction to swim. But between her and Helix''s efforts, they had managed to develop a rough framework for how Fii''s power worked.

    Each time Fii activated her gravikinesis, she was essentially producing a localized gravitational field. This field could be manipulated to either work against Earth''s gravity, giving her lift, or in tandem with it, anchoring her more firmly. At least, that was their initial assessment. But not every superpower could be explained entirely by science.

    "Hmm, I see." Edith frowned. "To expedite her activation process, we could anchor specific gravitational effects to trigger words. This association would reduce the mental computation required for commonly used gravitational manipulations." Edith mused aloud.

    Helix processed the suggestion, formulating a response.

    [A keyword activation might be beneficial. Pairing it with a reflexive reaction to produce the desired gravitational effect would be similar to how a reflex test works. I could run simulations modeling gravitational fields. These would provide Fii with visual feedback, allowing her to better predict and understand the outcomes of her gravikinetic actions.]

    Edith tapped her fingers on the desk thoughtfully, her gaze shifting to a set of monitor feeds displaying Fii in various training exercises. In one clip, Fii was shown attempting to lift a heavy steel beam. The beam wavered, rising a few centimeters off the ground, before suddenly crashing down. In another clip, Fii was holding a glass sphere, which started levitating between her palms before gently floating back down.

    "Helix, show me the data on Fii''s interactions with external objects. Is her ability limited only to her personal gravity, or can she extend this to items she''s in contact with?"

    [Initiating review.]

    The screen''s display was adjusted to showcase a series of graphs and charts.

    [During our latest tests, Fii has demonstrated the capability to extend her gravitational field to encompass objects she directly touches. This extension is currently limited by her concentration, the object''s mass, and proximity. The further away the object is from her body, the less control she seems to have.]

    Edith leaned in, inspecting a graph detailing Fii''s heart rate and concentration levels against her ability to lift different weighted objects. "So, if I''m understanding correctly, she can make things she touches lighter or heavier based on how she manipulates her own personal gravity?"

    [Correct. She essentially shares her gravitational field with the object, either augmenting or countering Earth''s gravity as she desires. It''s akin to two magnets influencing one another. As she strengthens her connection with the object, she can extend her influence over it.]

    Edith pondered this for a moment. "That could be tremendously advantageous in the field. Imagine her being able to lift heavy debris or prevent a collapsing structure. Or on the other side of the spectrum, she could make something so heavy that it becomes immovable. A sort of dynamic anchor."

    [Indeed, the applications are diverse. But there are limitations. Fii''s grasp on objects seems to be temporary. Once she releases them, her influence diminishes rapidly if the object goes beyond the area of her gravitational field. Outside of the field, objects return to their normal state within moments.]

    Helix then played a clip where Fii was seen lifting a series of kettlebells. Each time she tossed them away, the weights instantly crashed to the ground.

    [As you can see, her influence doesn''t linger.]

    Edith sighed. "We''ll need to find ways to extend that duration. If she''s to use this in real-life scenarios, we can''t have things crashing down unexpectedly. It could be catastrophic."

    [She''s still refining her abilities, Dr. Edith. We''ve noticed a gradual increase in the time objects remain influenced post-contact within her gravity field. It''s conceivable that with training and increased neural connection strength, she can maintain her influence for extended periods even after letting go.]

    A thought occurred to Edith. "I saw her throw a grown man around using only one arm not that long ago. That means her influence over objects she touches extends to biological organisms too."

    [Gravity does not differentiate between organic and non-organic material, so the answer is yes. She can share her gravitational field with other people.]

    "Oh, you''re going to love this." Edith rubbed her hands together mischievously, grinning from ear to ear. "I just got an idea for a little...experiment." She reached for the intercom and pressed a button. "Sheri, please join me in my office. I have a special project in mind, and I need your assistance."

    She let go of the button and chuckled, turning her attention back to the monitor. "You''re in for a treat, Helix."

    Helix spoke up.

    [I''m still waiting for Plan Z, Dr. Edith. Shall I order a parachute?]

    <hr>

 Chapter 6: Just Keep Swinging

    Slumlife had molded Fii into a wiry thing, both tough and flexible, having grown up dancing through the narrow, dark spaces between buildings, hopping on pipes and swinging from balconies, climbing roofs, and slipping into ducts and crawlspaces to scavenge and run errands for a price. But none of that prepared her for this.

    "Edith," she wheezed, gasping for air. "How many more times?" She sounded pathetic, like a wounded dog whining at its owner, and immediately hated herself for it.

    But Edith couldn''t expect her to do more, right? This was inhumane! Her legs ached and trembled, threatening to collapse under her, and her lungs burned like they were filled with hot coals. She needed rest. And a break!

    The seams on the fabric of the bodysuit that Edith had given her earlier began to rip slightly under the stress, the harsh white light of the training room only highlighting the fraying. The advanced, sleek suit, which was supposed to help map and monitor her body, now looked like it had been dragged through a razor field. She could feel the sweat that had saturated the suit start to dry, causing her skin to itch under the clingy, damp fabric.

    More sweat trickled down her face, dripping onto the ground in large droplets, and she wiped her brow with the back of her hand, blinking away the stinging perspiration. The fluorescent light overhead cast a harsh glare on everything, hurting her eyes, and she squinted, struggling to see clearly.

    "We''re almost done," Edith yelled over the sounds of the machines. "Just a little bit more. We need to know your limits." The quack doctor sat behind the observation window in front of a control panel, wearing a lab coat over her usual attire, her glasses looking fogged up, typing furiously on a computer. Sheri sat beside her, looking concerned but calm.

    Fii clenched her fist, her nails biting into the flesh of her palm, trying to ground herself in the middle of the disorienting gravitational fluctuations. She felt as if she were being stretched, like a piece of tough leather, pulled in all directions.

    She had been ordered to shift her gravity field back and forth rapidly, heavy and light, from her feet to her head and then back again, to test the limits of her power. Each change felt like she was being pushed and pulled by invisible hands, jerking her around and messing with her sense of balance. The back and forth made her stomach lurch and her head spin. It was a horrible experience, and she was sick of it.

    Suddenly, the gravitational shift became too overwhelming. Her head buzzed from the vertigo, and black spots clouded her vision. Fii crumpled to the floor in a heap, groaning in agony, her muscles trembling uncontrollably.

    "I''m done. I can''t do anymore." Her voice came out hoarse and faint, barely audible above the din of machinery. She struggled to prop herself up with her elbows, but her arms buckled and collapsed beneath her, and she fell back down.

    Edith''s voice crackled through the comm system. "Are you alright?"

    "Are your eyes just for decoration?!" Fii shouted back, her frustration boiling over. "Of course, I''m not okay! This sucks!"

    "The camera cut out for a second. That''s why I asked. Sorry." Edith''s voice sounded a little miffed, but mostly concerned. "Helix, pull up the data from her suit sensors. Let''s check the readouts on her vitals and the Tidal Force Sensitivity Index."

    Edith''s talking computer, Helix, began reciting numbers, though Fii was too exhausted to comprehend them.

    [Body temperature: 39.6¡ãC, elevated. Heart rate: 191 BPM, elevated. Oxygen saturation: 87%, decreasing. Respiration rate: 32 breaths per minute, elevated. Blood pressure: 184/110 mmHg, elevated.]

    It droned on in a mechanical voice, listing her vital statistics.

    [Tidal Force Sensitivity Index: 0.89]

    Fii didn''t know what all those words meant, but it all sounded as bad as she felt. And that final number, whatever it meant, was the highest she had gotten all day. Why did they have to use all that jargon? All she wanted was a simple, "You''re fine" or "Yeah, we pushed you too hard."

    Edith spoke next, her voice no longer tinged with worry. "You''ll be fine. Most of those numbers are pretty high, but for a metahuman, it won''t cause any lasting damage." She paused for a moment before adding, "Or in layman''s terms, you''re a tough kid. A little hard work isn''t going to kill you." There was a hint of amusement in her voice.

    Fii scowled, wishing she could melt Edith''s smug face with a single angry look. She took a deep breath and attempted to sit up once more. This time, she succeeded. Sweat dripped down her forehead and cheeks, rolling off her nose, and she brushed it away with the sleeve of her bodysuit, grimacing in disgust. The effort made her head swim, and she blinked furiously, trying to clear the fuzzy shapes obscuring her vision. "Are you happy now?"

    Edith continued, "The important number is the Tidal Force Sensitivity Index; your capacity to endure high tidal forces before experiencing unpleasant symptoms."

    "Tidal what-now?" Fii mumbled, still feeling a bit woozy.

    Edith cleared her throat and continued in a patient voice. "It''s an index we created to measure the tidal forces acting on your body when you manipulate your personal gravity. The Earth''s gravity pulls on us, but not uniformly. It pulls harder on the side of us closer to the ground than on the side further away. Normally, this difference is negligible, but the gravitational field you''re producing right now is many times more powerful. Essentially, you''re creating a localized gravity well centered around your body, but its radius fluctuates as you adjust your personal gravity. And because it fluctuates, its tidal force also varies."

    "Speak slum, please?" Fii groaned.

    "Hey, if Sheri can understand what I''m saying, then so can you!" Edith snapped, her voice cracking through the speakers, making Fii flinch. "Suck it up, buttercup. You wanted to be a hero, right? Well, heroes don''t get to complain when they push themselves too ha¡ªAH! OW¡ªOw ow ow ow! Shweri shtawp¡ª"

    The intercom clicked off, leaving Fii alone in silence once more.

    She glanced at the observation window, half expecting to see Sheri throttling Edith. Instead, Sheri was pinching Edith''s cheeks and yelling at her while Edith frantically shook her head and held up her hands in surrender, waving them around as if to say she would stop.

    Sheri must still be angry at Edith for that experiment last week. Using Sheri to prove that Fii could alter the gravity of others. Fii shuddered involuntarily as she remembered how strange it was to have Sheri floating helplessly above the floor, screaming her head off, calling Edith every curse word that Fii had ever heard, and a few that she hadn''t.

    At least she didn''t blame Fii for it. Edith was the one who coerced her into the test. To be fair, Fii had also been reluctant. The memory of what she did to that guy was still fresh in her mind. She didn''t want to hurt Sheri accidentally. But Edith said it''d be okay.

    Sheri let go of Edith, who immediately rubbed her cheeks and pouted. Sheri folded her arms across her chest, glaring daggers at Edith before turning around and leaving the room.

    Edith picked up the intercom and pressed the switch.

    Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    "Okay, let''s continue." Her voice still sounded a little nasally and strained, though the annoyance had gone. "It''s hard to come up with a simple analogy. Helix, help me out here."

    The robotic voice chimed in.

    [Have you ever played on a swing before?]

    "Yeah, sure," Fii replied, confused. Swings were common in the slums, a place where children gathered to play, make friends, and chase away boredom. She used to spend hours on the one close to her shelter, though the swing was just a repurposed tire, hanging from an old, rusty chain, bolted to the side of a building.

    [Then this analogy is sufficient. Think about how it felt when you swung back and forth. At the highest and lowest points, you felt a sort of... tension, correct? Like the world was pulling you back.]

    Fii nodded, "Yeah, like I was being stretched out."

    [Exactly. Now, when you were at the very top or very bottom of your swing, for a split second, you felt almost weightless, correct? Like you were floating.]

    "Yeah, that was the best part," Fii replied with a hint of nostalgia.

    [That sensation, that brief moment of weightlessness, is similar to when you balance out your gravitational powers. It''s a point where the forces acting on you are momentarily in equilibrium. But here''s the thing: while on the swing, even though you felt weightless at the top, the forces acting on you didn''t disappear. They were just momentarily balanced. Similarly, when you use your powers, you''re playing with forces, balancing them out, but they''re always there.]

    Fii thought for a moment. "So, when I use my powers, it''s like I''m swinging all the time?"

    [In a way, yes. But there''s more to it. Remember how, when you swung really high and then came rushing down, you felt a strong pull in your stomach? That''s because different parts of you were experiencing slightly different forces. Your feet, being closer to the ground, felt the pull of gravity a tiny bit more than your head did.]

    Fii''s face scrunched up in confusion. "So, you''re saying my feet and head were... swinging differently?"

    [In a manner of speaking, yes. It''s a bit like every part of your body is on its own little swing, and they''re all moving slightly out of sync. When you use your powers, especially when you change your gravitational field rapidly, it''s like all those little swings are being pushed and pulled in different directions. This difference in how each part of you experiences gravity is what we refer to as ''Tidal Forces''.]

    Fii took a moment to process this. "So, when I use my powers, it''s like I''m making all those little swings go wild?"

    [Precisely. And just like how it can be jarring or even painful if you swing too wildly or get pushed too hard, using your powers too intensely or too quickly can strain your body due to these tidal forces.]

    "So, I need to learn to... swing smoothly?"

    Edith, who had been silently observing the exchange, chimed in, "That''s one way to put it. Your training is about learning to control all those little swings inside you, to make them move in harmony. It''s about understanding the forces at play and ensuring they don''t pull you apart."

    "Okay, I think I get it. It''s all about balance and control. Just like when I was on the swing. If I pushed too hard or tried to jump off at the wrong moment, I''d get hurt. But if I swung smoothly, everything felt right."

    Fii saw Edith''s fist pump from the other side of the observation glass. "Exactly! You get it! You''re finally starting to use that big brain of yours." The quack doc chuckled, tapping the glass. "Look at that. Your intelligence quotient went up a whole four points with that one sentence. Who says we can''t teach an old dog new tricks?"

    Fii glared at Edith. "My age hasn''t changed."

    "Fine, a young dog," Edith corrected with a shrug. "Close enough."

    Fii ignored the jibe. She was getting used to Edith''s barbs. The quack doc was often impatient, and she loved to tease Fii whenever she could, but Fii knew it wasn''t malicious.

    Helix continued.

    [And that''s where the Tidal Force Sensitivity Index comes in. It''s a tool to help monitor and measure the strain on your body as you use your powers. Think of it as a guide, helping you understand your limits and how far you can push yourself.]

    "Is the higher the number the worse it is?" Fii asked.

    [A TFSI value close to 1 indicates that you are approaching the limits of what your body can handle. A value greater than 1 indicates you exceeding that limit and are at risk of serious injury.]

    "So, the higher the better, right?" Fii asked, thinking she understood.

    Edith chimed in, "No, the opposite, actually. You want the value as low as possible. Remember, this is a scale to gauge how far you can push yourself, not how much you should exert."

    "Right." Fii scratched the top of her head sheepishly. "Sorry, I meant, the lower the better."

    "With your current score of 0.89, you are in the yellow zone; you might be pushing yourself beyond what''s safe, but the long-term effects will be negligible. But once the value exceeds 0.95, that''s when the strain will become detrimental to your health."

    Fii frowned, "Why''s that?"

    "There''s a direct correlation between the magnitude of the gravitational alterations and the strain they impose. So, changing your gravity a little causes comparatively less strain, but also less noticeable effects, while dramatic changes result in a proportional increase in the amount of strain exerted on the body, as well as the perceived benefit gained. Ideally, you want to find the sweet spot between the two; small, frequent alterations versus large ones. Over time, the cumulative effect will add up and amplify the benefits gained. This applies to both training and combat."

    "Edith. I get it. You''re smart, but like I said earlier, slum-speak, please?" Fii huffed in exasperation, flinging her hands up.

    Edith rolled her eyes. "Small but frequent changes are good. Big ones are bad." She shrugged, waving her hand dismissively. "But it''s not just the size of the changes. How fast you make them matters as well. The faster you alter your gravity, the more strain you''ll exert on your body."

    "Ugh, this is complicated." Fii groaned, rubbing her temples in an attempt to ease her growing headache. "This is worse than studying for that stupid math test." She stared at her hands. "I wish I could use my power without having to think of all that stuff. Can''t I just snap my fingers and¡ª" Fii mimicked a gun firing with her thumb and forefinger, "BANG! The bad guy goes flying?"

    Edith scoffed, "Superpowers aren''t magic, kid. They have rules, physics, formulas that you have to learn and apply." The quack doctor furrowed her eyebrows and twirled the end of her lab coat between her fingers before continuing. "There are only a very few metas whose powers work in ways that defy those rules, and they''re either rare abominations of science or inexplicable manifestations of cosmic power."

    "So, no snapping my fingers and watching the bad guy fly into the sky?" Fii sulked in disappointment. "How do you even use this Tidal whatever-thingy in a fight, anyway?"

    "We call it Tidal Force," Edith clarified. "Tactically, you''ll need to rely on your ability to maintain an optimal balance between increasing your force potential and limiting the Tidal Forces exerted on your body. Once you''ve honed your skills sufficiently, you won''t need to constantly check your TFSI. The process will become reflexive."

    Fii exhaled through her teeth, blowing out a raspberry in frustration. "So, basically, practice, practice, and more practice." She wiped her damp hair away from her face and sighed. "As usual."

    "Alright, alright. That''s enough for now. We''ll stop with the tests for today. It''s obvious you need a break. Take a bath, eat, and clear your head. Relax and recharge." Edith''s voice softened, losing the edge of teasing, and Fii''s tension ebbed a bit. "I''ll send Sheri in later to give you a massage to help relax those sore muscles of yours. The last thing I want is for you to be laid up with muscle cramps."

    Was...was she trying to be nice? Maybe the quack doc was developing a soft spot for her, after all. But she probably shouldn''t push her luck. For all she knew, Edith might have something horrible in store for her in the days to follow.

    Fii rolled her shoulders, feeling the ache of exhaustion settling in her arms and legs. "What about my training?"

    Edith leaned back in her chair and gazed at Fii with a pensive expression. "Take tomorrow off, and rest. I can already tell you''re in no condition to practice. Think of tomorrow as a recovery day. Then, the day after that, we''ll move on to the next phase of your training."

    Wow. Two days off in a row? That had never happened before. Did Sheri have a hand in this? Whatever the reason, she wouldn''t look a gift horse in the mouth.

    Feeling a bit more reassured, Fii took a deep breath, pushing herself to a sitting position. "Alright then. I guess I''ll go wash up." She got to her feet and straightened, wincing as her muscles complained.

    She headed towards the exit, only for Edith to speak through the comms once more. "Oh, and Fii? One more thing."

    Fii froze, her hand on the door, and turned to stare at Edith.

    "Yes?" she asked warily.

    "Good work today." Edith smiled, offering her a thumbs-up.

    Fii smiled and returned the gesture, before replacing it with a rude one. "There, is that better?"

    "Much better," Edith sniggered. "Kids these days."

    <hr>

    (A/N: I apologize in advance, mobile readers)

 Chapter 7: Rolling on Rust

    "Fii, where have you been?! I thought you got snatched by a gang or something! Did you go off and fade somewhere?" Rao fumed, pacing back and forth in his tiny store, a variety of trinkets and electronics displayed behind him on rickety shelves. His clothes hung off his bony frame, and the whites of his eyes were tinged red with lack of sleep.

    Fii could only sheepishly smile, scratching the back of her head as he chastised her. She had taken Edith''s advice and spent most of yesterday and today resting. It felt a bit silly to just be lazing about, considering all the workouts she had endured lately, but she wasn''t the kind to question a day off. It had been nice to sleep in, to wake up slowly instead of jumping to her feet from a fitful night of broken sleep.

    But she felt so bad for Rao. The last time he saw her was over a month ago, right after he told her to come back the next day for a new job. No wonder he thought she was snatched or killed. And now, here she was, waltzing back into his shop like nothing happened.

    She grabbed Rao''s hand that wasn''t cybernetic and clasped it, shaking it vigorously. "I''m so sorry, Rao. Really, I am. A lot of crazy things happened and I just completely forgot to come back."

    He sputtered in indignation, pulling his hand away. "You...forgot?" His eyes widened in disbelief. "Y-you forgot?" he repeated, sounding even more incredulous. "You vanished off the streets without a word. And you just...forgot to come back?"

    His face was so comically shocked that Fii struggled to contain a laugh. She chewed on her lower lip and tried to hide her twitching lips with the back of her hand, pretending to cough.

    "You''re not fooling me, girlie!" he snapped. "I can tell you''re trying not to laugh. What, do I look funny to you? Huh?" He threw his hands up in the air dramatically. "It''s been over a month and you just forget to come back. I don''t even want to ask you what happened. I don''t even want to hear your stupid excuse!"

    Rao flopped down on the wooden stool behind the counter and crossed his arms, muttering under his breath, "Can you believe this? A month? Seriously? Kid''s gotta be yanking my chain. I swear, I oughta..."

    Fii crouched, leaning forward until her face was on the same level as Rao''s. "I really am sorry. Look, I''m okay. I''ve been doing good. Got a stable job that pays good, but it''s been keeping me busy so I haven''t been able to come by." She bowed her head low and continued, "I''m sorry I made you worry."

    Rao regarded her silently for a moment before letting out a sigh. "Whatever, I forgive you. Just make sure you come back a bit sooner next time, yeah? I thought some gang snatched you or something. Guess it was just echoes in empty cans."

    Fii could tell he was still a little ticked, but at least he wasn''t exploding at her anymore. He never stayed mad for long. "I will. Promise. And thanks. I really owe you. It means a lot that you still want me around."

    Rao scratched the back of his head, the sternness in his voice softening. "Don''t mention it. I just can''t help worrying. Especially in this part of town¡ª"

    He suddenly tilted his head and squinted his eyes, as if studying her closely for the first time. "Huh. I didn''t notice at first, but you look different."

    "What do you mean?" Fii asked, slightly puzzled.

    Rao walked over to her and placed his hands on her shoulders. She flinched at the sudden touch, but he was too engrossed in his observations to notice. "You''ve filled out a bit, and your skin looks less sallow. Wait, ain''t your nose supposed to be broken? And I don''t see any scars on your face either."

    His eyes darted over to Fii''s exposed arms. "Whoa! Check out those muscles! When''d you get those?" He moved back and looked her up and down, astonished. "And your hair, it''s shiny and smooth." He reached out to touch it, only to be swatted away. "Geez, I''m just taking a look. You got quite the glow-up since the last time I seen you."

    "Stop. Why are you checking me out, weirdo?" Fii''s cheeks flushed, and she took a step back, folding her arms.

    "Sorry, didn''t mean to make you uncomfortable. But seriously, what the hell happened to you during all this time?" Rao stroked his beard thoughtfully. "You''ve never looked healthier or better-fed. How much have you been eating?"

    "A normal amount," Fii answered. She wasn''t lying. She did have three square meals a day at Edith''s place, although the food she got there was far better than what she ever had elsewhere.

    She looked at her arms and legs, flexing a bit and noticing how toned she had become. Now that Rao pointed it out, she could see what he meant. She used to be just skin and bones, her body thin and wiry, like a stray cat, but now she actually had some muscle. "Huh, you''re right. I hadn''t noticed."

    Rao grinned, reaching out to pinch her cheek. "Well, whatever you''re doing, keep at it. You''re looking good, kid."

    "Ow, ow, stop." Fii slapped his hand away, frowning. "I''m not a kid."

    "Says you." Rao laughed, turning around to rummage through the contents of the shelves. "Well, now that you''re looking all hale and hearty, you need to be extra careful out there. I don''t think I need to say anymore, do I?" He shot a glance at Fii as if to emphasize the importance of what he was saying.

    Fii nodded, her mood dropping. "Yeah, I know. Thanks. Anyways, how''s business been?" she asked, straightening and glancing around.

    The shop had hardly changed. The same piles of junk, the same weird tech scattered around in disarray. "Anything big happen while I was gone? Hadn''t gone out much. Been busy staring at books."

    She was trying to divert the conversation away from her, and hoped it worked. Luckily, Rao seemed to be in the mood to talk. He sat back, fiddling with the dials of his radio, tuning out the static with practiced ease.

    "Been okay. Still running. And the neighborhood gangs have been keeping their heads down lately, at least the ones near the shop. But the Gully Rats that you ran into a while back have been on the rise. Word on the street is that they''re planning a turf war with another gang. Some really nasty folks called the Sabres, apparently. Things could get messy around here. It''s always the people who live closest to the danger who get caught in the crossfire, ya know?"

    The mention of the Gully Rats made Fii''s jaw tighten. "If those dirtbags try anything, they''ll be sorry." She clenched her fist, thinking back to the alleyway and her near-death encounter.

    "You keep this up, kid, and you''ll get yourself in trouble again. Or worse, killed." Rao wagged his finger, scowling. "No need to go sticking your neck out. Stay low, stay safe. Ain''t nothing good coming from tangling with gangs, not for someone like you, and not for someone like me."

    Sorry, Rao, but she was going to be a superhero. It was only a matter of time before she bumped into the Gully Rats again. And this time, she had a surprise in store for them. But Rao didn''t need to know that.

    She offered a noncommittal grunt, trying to sound reassuring. "Anyway, anything else?" she prompted.

    "Other than the gang stuff, everything''s been fairly quiet. Same as always. It''s not the biggest shop in the slums, but there''s enough foot traffic to keep me in food and water. Speaking of which, you hungry? I''m sure you''ve been working hard, and you could use a bite to eat."

    Fii''s stomach grumbled on cue, and she nodded. "Sure. Can I get the same ol'' synthie roll? Put it on my tab."

    "Of course. Coming right up," Rao replied, smiling at her as he ambled to the back of the shop. She could hear him rummaging around for a plate and cutlery as he heated up the meal.

    It was a bit out of place for a tech shop to also serve food, but the synthies sold fast, and they made for a quick snack. Plus, Rao used to be a chef, and his Synthie rolls were the best cheap meals this side of the slums. People came to the shop less for the gadgets and more for the food, and the locals loved him.

    Rao came back and set the steaming Synthie roll on the counter. The synthies were made of rice-flour wrappers stuffed with synthetic meat fillings and vegetables and a variety of sauces. They had a fun, springy texture that made them slightly bouncy when bitten into, and they tasted surprisingly good despite being made from scraps and by-products of larger factories.

    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    They didn''t taste as good as actual meat, but the alternative was going hungry. Besides, this beat starving.

    Fii tore open the wrapper with her teeth, taking a sniff before devouring the synthie in a few bites. She swallowed and licked the sauce from her lips, nodding appreciatively. "Mmm, this is good. Hits the spot."

    Truth be told, Sheri had spoiled her with her homecooked meals, and she''d almost forgotten what Rao''s synthies tasted like. But she wasn''t complaining. They were cheap, convenient, and filling. Rao deserved an award for finding a way to make garbage taste delicious.

    "How is it?" Rao asked, giving her a toothy grin. "Still has a kick to it, right?"

    Fii took another bite, savoring the spice and warmth on her tongue. "Perfect. Exactly like I remember it."

    Rao looked pleased with himself. "The secret ingredient is hot sauce."

    Fii gave him a thumbs-up, grinning. "Hot sauce fixes everything."

    "Damn straight, kiddo." Rao laughed. He retrieved a rag from below the counter and used it to wipe the surface. "So, how''s your new job going? Must not be paying you much if you still need to put the food on your tab."

    Fii opened her mouth to reply, only to close it, not sure what to say. Should she lie and make up an excuse? She couldn''t tell him the whole truth. What would he even make of that?

    "It''s going okay," she finally said. "Pay''s okay."

    Rao eyed her skeptically, raising an eyebrow. "What''s your boss like, then?"

    "Uh, she''s...different," Fii admitted. "Smart, kinda annoying, sometimes a real jerk, but she''s not a bad person. She''s taught me a lot. I''m learning all sorts of new stuff. I''ll get paid soon enough, and I can pay you back in full. I promise. I''ll be getting five thousand ChitCreds, can you believe that?"

    The corners of Rao''s lips twitched, as if he was trying not to smile. But then his brow furrowed, and a worried frown creased his brow. "You sure she ain''t scamming you or something? If it pays that good, it ain''t honest, I tell you. Unless...you working at the Neon Alley?"

    He raised his eyebrow at her, making a clicking noise with his tongue, and Fii stiffened, realizing what he was insinuating.

    She blushed, waving her hands furiously in the air. "What?! No! Of course not!"

    Fii jerked upright, staring at Rao as if he''d said something horrible. "I''m working at a clinic. I''m learning about medicine and biology and stuff." She couldn''t mention the superpowers or the superhero stuff, but she was kind of telling the truth. Even without the meta stuff, she was still learning a lot of useful information.

    Rao snorted, eyeing her skeptically. "You, of all people, working at a clinic? Next, you''re going to tell me that pigs can fly." He raised his cybernetic arm and wiggled his fingers, the metallic digits clicking together as they flexed. "And I''m growing a new organic arm, starting with my thumb."

    "Well, a lot of weird things have been happening recently. Who knows?" She winked at Rao. "Maybe one day, you''ll grow a new arm."

    "Sure, sure. Whatever you say," Rao laughed. "Well...I''m glad that you''re alive and well. Guess that means you won''t be needing that other job, huh? Well, you better not disappear on me again." He motioned to the door behind him. "Wait here, and I''ll grab you those parts you asked for."

    As Rao disappeared into the back room, Fii began inspecting the various tools and equipment lying scattered on the counter. There were metal wires and sheets, copper wire, and strips of rubber. There were even a few power tools, which surprised her. They looked pricey and fancy. Definitely not cheap knock-offs like most of the other electronics she had seen here.

    After a few minutes, Rao emerged from the storage room, carrying a bundle of parts, wrapped in plastic. "Here you go. Should be everything the person that gave you that list wanted."

    "Thanks, Rao." Fii eagerly reached for the bundle. "You''re a lifesaver, really."

    He batted her hands away. "Nope, hold it right there. First, you''ve got to pay, and then you can take it."

    Fii handed him the ChitCreds Edith gave her for this errand. "This should cover it, right?"

    Rao opened the pack and started counting the ChitCreds, using his cybernetic arm''s sensors to verify the amount. "Yep. Yep. All here." He flashed Fii a wide grin. "Looks like whoever''s employing you treats you pretty well, huh?" He placed the money into a small safe hidden under the counter, before returning his gaze to Fii. "So, when are you gonna introduce me to this person?"

    Fii scooped the bundle of parts into her arms, shifting them around, so she could get a better grip. "I dunno. Depends on if you ever decide to get a check-up. If you do, you can come to the clinic where I work and meet her." She hoisted the package up and nestled it into her arms. "Anyway, I better get going."

    "What, you in a rush to leave, kid? Fine, fine. Go on, get outta here." Rao waved at her dismissively. "Don''t make me worry over you again, you hear?"

    "I promise! If I disappear, I promise to let you know beforehand." Fii grinned and lifted her chin in salute. "See ya!"

    She bounded out the door before Rao could say anything else. Despite the heavy load she carried, her footsteps were light.

    <hr>

    After the errand, she headed back to the ramshackle shelter that she called home, tucked away in a small nook between two dilapidated buildings that had seen better days. She walked past the alleys where a group of street kids slept, careful not to step on anyone''s fingers or toes as she made her way through.

    She ducked under a large pipe sticking out of the wall and squeezed through a narrow opening. Finally, she slipped into her shelter, tossing the bundle of parts onto the small cot tucked into a corner.

    Her place wasn''t much, but it was her shimmer in the puddle. She had arranged the space as best she could, with a small table, a chair, and a couple of crates she used as shelves. Her personal belongings, which included a few spare changes of clothes, a set of cooking utensils, some mementos and keepsakes, and a few other odds and ends, were stacked neatly on the shelves. Her walls were decorated with posters she found and stuck up using adhesive tape. She had even set up a makeshift curtain to divide her living space from the junk pile she used as a kitchen area.

    Fii was grateful for the shelter. After all, a roof over her head was better than the open streets or the rooftops. She couldn''t complain, especially since she had found this place a few years ago. And being relatively out of sight and out of mind, she seldom received any unwelcome visitors.

    But the shelter''s greatest selling point, and the primary reason Fii kept coming back here, was how close it was to the slum''s infamous Rust Market. It was one of the largest bazaars in the slum, and as its name implied, was where most of the second-hand tech in the area was sold.

    Rao''s little junk shop was only one of a hundred others. The Rust Market had several stalls and shops like his, and she made sure to visit each and every one of them frequently. Sure, the tech was usually outdated, and sometimes didn''t work, but if you browsed long enough, you might find a treasure or two buried beneath the heap of duds.

    She sank down on the cot, the springs creaking beneath her, and let out a heavy sigh. It had been a while since she came back here. It was surprising that no one had decided to steal her things, though she suspected that the street kids might have kept watch over the place for her. They were a tight bunch, always looking out for each other, even for someone like her.

    The only downside was that, in a community as tight-knit as theirs, it wouldn''t take long for people to throw echoes in the alley about her. Rumors of her disappearing and being kidnapped, of her being recruited by a gang, and a hundred other stories were sure to be making the rounds by now. She might need to make a round in the neighborhood today to appease them.

    Fii exhaled and leaned back, letting the back of her head rest against the hard metal surface of the wall. As she sat there, she watched a tiny spider crawl across the ceiling. It climbed up the corner, scuttling along the cracks and crevices in the stonework. A cool breeze blew in through a crack in the wall, stirring the cobwebs near the ceiling, causing them to sway slightly.

    She had spent countless hours in this little alcove, lying on this rickety bed, staring at the ceiling, listening to the noises outside. She had fantasized about escaping the slums, of heading to the city, to the Metropolis, where she could have a chance at a better life.

    But her dream had always been too far away, too unreachable, even though the city was right there, right across the Wall. That was the world of the rich and powerful, of the famous, of Superheroes, and everyone knew that no one from the slums was getting in, even with a golden ticket. Not unless they had the connections and ChitCreds to pay off the right people.

    But now, things have changed. Now, she might get a chance at a different life. Now, she had Edith¡ªor the quack doctor, as Fii liked to call her¡ªwho promised to turn her into a superhero.

    There weren''t any in the slums, and the ones in the city never bothered to show their faces here. From what Fii understood, the slums were an embarrassment, a discarded piece of skin still clinging to the city''s perfectly manicured form¡ªa constant reminder of how dirty the world outside the glittering lights of the Metropolis was. It was like the slums didn''t even exist to the people living there.

    So, to have a chance to become a hero... Fii might as well have won the lottery. All she had to do was to follow Edith''s orders and, hopefully, she''d be flying over the slums and helping people like her soon enough. And maybe once she''d done enough good deeds and kicked out all the gangs, the city would open its doors to her.

    Or maybe she was just chasing flickering lights...

    She pushed herself to her feet and brushed her hands off on her pants, leaving dusty marks where she had touched them. Then, she headed for the entrance.

    There was no time to waste. She had a lot of work to do.

    Edith was right. She needed to stop complaining about studying and training, and do what needed to be done. If she was ever going to make it to the city, she needed to work hard now. Because if she couldn''t do that, she might as well go back to living out her life as a street kid.

    Things might not work out, but she just had to keep rolling on rust.

    <hr>

 Chapter 8: Eye of the Tiger

    Fii set down the last training dummy, sighing with relief as the heavy weight left her aching shoulders. The training dummies were crudely fashioned and painted, with misshapen faces and bulging eyes. Edith made them from scrap metal, using recycled car parts, and they were built to withstand a fair bit of punishment.

    Finding a big enough spot to use for her training, while also being secluded enough to ensure they wouldn''t draw attention, took a bit of time, but she finally found the perfect location: an old, abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the slums, near the Wall. The building itself was run-down and rusted, with graffiti spray-painted on the sides.

    Squatters and vagrants sometimes lived here, but they never stayed long. It wasn''t like the building was in the center of town. Most of the time, it was empty, save for the rats.

    She glanced around the room, wiping the sweat from her forehead, admiring her handiwork. She had managed to bring all the training dummies into the building without being spotted, and she even had time to set them up properly.

    Edith had set up a small desk in the far corner of the room, covered with all sorts of complicated-looking contraptions. Her fingers clacked against her keyboard, and her eyes were glued to a large monitor as she muttered to herself, not bothering to look over at Fii.

    "Okay, I got the rest of the stuff you asked me to get," Fii said, rolling her shoulder and stretching. "What do you want me to do now?"

    Edith raised a hand, shushing her. "One sec."

    Fii waited impatiently, tapping her foot on the ground, drumming her fingers on the side of her leg.

    After what felt like forever, Edith finally looked up from her screen. "Ah, there we go. Everything''s ready. Let''s get started on today''s training then. Put on your gloves."

    Fii grabbed the pair of boxing gloves Edith had given her, sliding her hands into them. She clenched her fists, enjoying the way the leather molded to her hands. She''d only had them for a short time, but she already loved the feeling of having them on. They were comfortable, sturdy, and most importantly, fit her perfectly.

    Once the gloves were on, Fii stretched her arms out in front of her and bounced on the balls of her feet, warming up her muscles. She hadn''t trained yet today, and her limbs still ached from yesterday''s session. However, her excitement helped her ignore the soreness in her body. The more training she got in, the faster she could become a hero and get out of this dump.

    "Alright, let''s review what we''ve been working on for the past month," Edith began, picking up a clipboard from her desk. "To recap, you''ve been working on manipulating your gravity field until you can do so without consciously focusing on it¡ªautomatic reflexes. And I have to admit, you''ve come a long way."

    "Thanks," Fii responded, her voice echoing throughout the cavernous room.

    "Don''t celebrate yet, I''m not finished. This isn''t a game, and I''m not going to sugarcoat things. While you''re showing improvement, you have a long way to go before you can even remotely consider yourself proficient." Edith paused, letting her words sink in. "Manipulating your weight and the weight of things you touch is only the basics of basics, the very foundations of Gravikinesis. We can''t progress further until you''ve at least grasped the fundamentals."

    Fii nodded. "Okay, gotcha. So, what''s next?"

    "Next, we move on to advanced basics. In essence, we''ll be covering the same material as before, but we''re going to apply the principles in combat-oriented scenarios. Each dummy is equipped with a weight sensor and an array of shock absorbers to record your progress. By monitoring how you hit, I can gauge your growth." Edith rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Now, where was I...? Ah, yes. Since you''re getting more accustomed to controlling your gravity field, you''ll be focusing on learning to maximize the effects of your attacks. Let''s call it, ''Gravity-Enhanced Strikes''."

    Fii cocked her head, curious. "So, what exactly does that mean?"

    "It''s simple," Edith explained, her eyes narrowing in concentration. "Normally, you can generate more force with your strikes just by increasing your own weight, right? You can punch harder by becoming heavier. However, with Gravity-Enhanced Strikes, you''re going to do something a bit more... nuanced."

    Fii raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Go on."

    Edith turned to the nearest training dummy, placing her hand on its head. "Imagine you''re about to punch one of these dummies. Just before your fist makes contact, you momentarily increase your entire body''s weight, multiplying the force of your strike. Then, immediately after the impact, you revert to your normal weight. Think of it as a split-second gravitational surge."

    Fii frowned, trying to wrap her head around the concept. "So, I''m going to be... what, turning myself into a human wrecking ball for a split second?"

    Edith chuckled. "In a manner of speaking, yes. But it''s more controlled than that. By manipulating your gravitational field, you can increase your weight exponentially in the split second before your strike lands. This will amplify the force of your punch or kick. Then, you''ll decrease your weight to more manageable levels immediately afterward. This way, you don''t crash through the floor or cause unnecessary collateral damage."

    Helix''s voice chimed in from one of the speakers at the desk.

    [To put it in simpler terms, it''s like adding the weight of a car to your punch for just a fraction of a second. The force generated would be immense.]

    Fii grinned, bouncing on her toes. "Alright, I''m sold. Let''s do this."

    Edith returned to her seat at her desk, her eyes flicking toward her screen. "Excellent. Now, to start off, you''ll be practicing against this training dummy." She pointed to the first target. "Start with that one. You''ve already learned how to manipulate your weight. But remember, the key is to increase your weight just before the impact. It''s not about being heavy all the time, but about the timing."

    Fii nodded, rolling her shoulders to loosen them. "I''m on it."

    She faced the first dummy, holding her breath as she concentrated on her Gravitational Field. She pictured the invisible sphere of energy surrounding her body, imagining it as a thin blanket, enveloping her completely. It was a familiar sensation by now, like slipping on an old, comfortable shirt.

    She focused on the dummy in front of her, imagining it as one of the Gully Rats who had ambushed her. The memory of the beating she''d gotten was still fresh in her mind. How many times had those punks hurt her? This would be her payback.

    As she tightened her fists and drew her arm back, she imagined her fists being as heavy as a car for just a moment.

    Taking a deep breath, she lunged forward and threw a punch, feeling the rush of power as her gloved fist connected. The dummy rocked back on its stand, a loud clang echoing through the warehouse.

    "Not bad," Edith remarked, typing away at her keyboard. "But the time delay was a bit too long. Try again, but increase your weight a bit later and release it a bit faster."

    Fii took a moment to center herself, feeling the familiar thrum of energy coursing through her body. It tingled and prickled along her skin, sending goosebumps rippling down her arms and legs. She didn''t feel like her body or her fist suddenly got heavier, but weirdly enough, she felt her gloves squeeze tighter around her fists right as she was about to throw the punch.

    Weird. So what was the deal with Edith saying ''weight'' all the time? Nothing really felt heavier.

    She lashed out with another punch, trying to be mindful of her movements. This time, she thought of increasing the weight of her fist just as she swung her arm forward, as if she were swinging a hammer. The force of the blow caused the dummy to rock violently, but Edith shook her head. "Better, but not quite what I was looking for. Try again."

    Again. Nothing felt heavy, but her punch definitely hit harder.

    Fii bit her lip, frustrated.

    This was hard. Really hard. Edith wasn''t kidding when she said she still had a lot to learn. This wasn''t something that she could master overnight.

    <hr>

    The warehouse echoed with the sound of metal clanging, as Fii hammered at the practice dummy relentlessly with a barrage of blows. It had taken her the better part of a week, but she had finally figured out how to increase her weight at the exact moment of impact.

    Fii stood, feet planted firmly on the ground, and squared her stance as she attacked. Sweat trickled down her neck and face, plastering her hair to her skin, and she panted with exertion. But she didn''t care. She had to get this right.

    She struck the dummy again and again, slamming her gloved fist into its torso and head. The gloves had already been battered and torn from the countless hours of training she''d been putting in.

    Edith glanced at her computer and shook her head, clicking her tongue. "Try again."

    Fii bristled in irritation, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. "What, why? The timing was perfect."

    "The data doesn''t agree with you." Edith pointed to the screen. "Look, the output from the training dummy still shows a noticeable difference between when you increase your weight and when you release your Gravitational Field. It''s not fast enough, Fii."

    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    "Are you sure weight has to be the only thing that matters? Can''t I just...I don''t know, use gravity to pull their face to my fist or something?"

    Edith raised an eyebrow. "Is that a question or a suggestion?"

    "Both?"

    Edith snorted, rubbing her chin in contemplation. "While I commend your creativity, can you actually wrap your head around how to do that?"

    "Um, maybe?"

    "No, you can''t," Edith sighed. "Your idea has merit, but I don''t want to give you bad habits. Better to teach you the fundamentals first, before you start experimenting on your own. Look, I admit, we don''t have a full understanding of how gravity works¡ªlet alone Gravikinesis¡ªbut we do know enough to theorize some things. You, on the other hand, are still learning about Newtonian physics so all you need to understand is ''weight'' to build an intuitive understanding before tackling anything more complex."

    Fii shrugged. "Okay, if you say so."

    "Now back to work. Don''t forget to focus on your timing."

    With a roar, Fii launched another barrage of punches at the dummy. However, no matter how hard she punched, no matter how many times she smashed her gloved fist into its body and head, Edith didn''t seem satisfied. "Again."

    Finally, with a grunt, Fii brought her leg up and slammed her foot down, stomping on the ground as hard as she could, causing the concrete floor to splinter and crack underneath her. Her shoes sunk into the ruined cement, and a huge chunk of the floor buckled.

    Fii grunted, trying not to scream in frustration. It was maddening, getting so close and still falling short. Why couldn''t Edith be happy with what she did? She could have easily been bashing in the dummies'' heads and breaking them in half with the force of her punches, but that wasn''t what Edith was asking her to do. No, she wanted precise control. A quick flick of her wrist, the blink of an eye. Like switching a light switch on and off.

    A vein throbbed in Fii''s forehead as she continued to strike the dummy with reckless abandon. With each impact, the air thundered and the training dummy rocked and swayed, shaking the room. The thick concrete pillars lining the perimeter groaned, as if they were on the verge of collapse.

    Suddenly, a sharp pain lanced through her arm, causing Fii to wince, and she stumbled backward, clutching her elbow. Blood streamed freely from her knuckles, the skin peeled away. The gloves Edith had made for her had torn through at the seams, leaving her hands exposed.

    But more than that, she noticed a peculiar, dull ache in her bones, as if someone had broken her arm.

    "Damn," she swore, gingerly prodding her elbow.

    "Stop, stop!" Edith called out from her desk. "That''s enough."

    Edith rose from her chair and strode over to Fii, grabbing her by the shoulders and examining her arms and hands. "You''re done for the day. Let''s get you patched up."

    Fii''s shoulders sagged, and she wiped the blood from her knuckles. "I was doing fine."

    "If by ''fine'', you mean destroying the floor, then yes. Otherwise, no. Come, sit. Let me check on those injuries." Edith guided Fii to a chair, making her sit. Then, she grabbed a bottle of antiseptic solution from her desk and a roll of gauze and began cleaning the wounds.

    The disinfectant stung Fii''s torn skin, drawing a hiss from her. "Ow! That hurts!"

    "Of course it hurts. That''s why they call it ''disinfectant.''" Edith dabbed at the cuts, wiping away the blood. "Hold still. This needs to be cleaned properly."

    Fii gritted her teeth, forcing herself to remain still as Edith treated her.

    Once Edith finished, she began wrapping the gauze around Fii''s hand. "There, that should be better. However, you''re going to need to learn to control your temper. I understand you''re frustrated, but if you keep this up, you''ll only injure yourself more."

    Fii pursed her lips, looking away. "Sorry..."

    "I know, I know." Edith patted her on the head. "Look. I think you were right. You''ve got the timing down well enough. I''ve been pushing you hard, and I haven''t given you enough praise." She pulled back, locking gazes with Fii. "You''re doing a great job."

    Fii blinked in surprise. "Wait, you really think so?"

    "Yes." Edith smiled reassuringly. "I''m just a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to these things. I tend to nitpick a lot. I apologize for that. But I promise, you''ve made a lot of progress recently. I think you''re ready to move on to the next stage of your training¡ªafter you''ve healed up."

    "Really?" Fii brightened visibly, sitting up straight. "What''s the next stage?"

    "We still have to train you on how to augment your speed and agility using your gravity field." Edith tapped her finger on her chin thoughtfully. "Hmmm. I''ll come up with a course or obstacle course for you to try, and we''ll see if we can incorporate this into your training regimen."

    Fii grinned broadly. "Awesome! Sounds fun. I''m tired of punching things anyways."

    Edith returned her smile, nodding. "Glad you''re excited. Well, then. Take the rest of today and tomorrow off. We''ll resume after."

    <hr>

    The sun had barely risen, casting a soft orange glow over the abandoned warehouse. The dilapidated building, with its rusted beams and graffiti-covered walls, had become Fii''s training ground. Today, however, it looked different. Edith had been busy.

    A series of obstacles had been set up throughout the vast space. There were makeshift hurdles made of old car parts, narrow beams suspended in the air, and a maze of ropes hanging from the ceiling. At one end of the warehouse, a series of platforms of varying heights had been erected, leading to a zip line that stretched across the room. The entire setup looked like a mad scientist''s version of an obstacle course.

    Fii, standing at the entrance, took it all in with wide eyes. "You did all this in two days?"

    Edith shrugged. "Not me personally. A few of my patients owed me some favors, and I asked them to lend a hand. I just supervised. They handled all the heavy lifting."

    "Wow," Fii breathed out. "It looks insane."

    "Insane is the point," Edith said, dusting off her hands. "Now, go suit up. It''s time to test out your agility."

    Fii rushed to the back of the warehouse and changed into the suit that monitored her vitals. The sleek fabric clung to her body like a second skin, making it feel slightly constricting at first. She ran a few laps around the warehouse to get used to the feeling, while Edith attached various sensors to her, checking her readouts.

    When Edith gave the green light, Fii started the obstacle course.

    Fii approached the first obstacle, a series of hurdles. They varied in height, some barely reaching her knees while others were almost chest high. "So, I just run and jump over these?"

    Edith shook her head. "Not just run. You''ll use your gravikinesis to lighten yourself, then you''ll be able to clear the hurdles no problem. The varying heights will force you to adjust your weight on the fly. If you miss the amount of weight you need, you''ll either not clear it, or you''ll overshoot it and float off like a balloon. Basically, the same principles you used to develop Gravity-Enhanced Strikes apply in this exercise. Time your transitions."

    "Got it." Fii nodded in understanding. She crouched down, planting her hands on the ground. Her breathing slowed as she gathered her thoughts.

    Then, she stood, taking a deep breath, filling her lungs with air. he focused, feeling the familiar sensation of her weight decreasing. With a burst of speed, she dashed towards the first hurdle, clearing it with ease. The next one, slightly higher, required a bit more effort, but she managed. As she progressed, she found herself getting the hang of it, adjusting her weight instinctively to clear each hurdle.

    Without breaking stride, she continued on, ducking under low-hanging beams and leaping over obstacles. The wind rushed past her face as she raced along the path, a wide grin plastered on her face.

    As she reached the end of the hurdles, she barely had time to catch her breath before the next challenge. The narrow beams, suspended a few feet off the ground, required balance and precision. Fii hesitated, looking uncertain.

    "Remember," Edith called out, "use your gravikinesis to lighten yourself. It''ll make balancing on the beams easier."

    Taking a deep breath, Fii stepped onto the first beam. She wobbled slightly but quickly regained her balance. As she progressed, she found herself moving more confidently, her steps light and sure.

    As she neared the halfway point, she encountered her first real challenge: a series of platforms suspended in the air. She had to jump from one to the next, adjusting her weight mid-air to ensure she landed safely.

    She took a running start, leaping onto the first platform. She felt a momentary sense of weightlessness as she flew through the air, then increased her weight just in time to land securely on the platform. She repeated the process for the next two platforms, each jump more challenging than the last.

    Finally, she reached the last platform, which was the highest of them all. She took a deep breath, then launched herself into the air with all her might. She soared upwards, the ground falling away beneath her. For a moment, it felt like she was flying. Then she began to descend, adjusting her weight to ensure a soft landing.

    She touched down safely, a wide grin plastered on her face. But there was no time to celebrate. The course was far from over.

    The ropes hanging from the ceiling were next. They were spaced just far enough apart that Fii had to stretch to reach them. Grabbing the first rope, she used her momentum to swing to the next, her reduced weight making the process smoother.

    The platforms posed a different challenge. They were of varying heights and distances apart, requiring Fii to both jump and use her gravikinesis to glide between them. The first few jumps were easy, but as she progressed, the gaps became wider, forcing her to push herself harder.

    Finally, she reached the zip line. Grabbing onto the handle, she launched herself off the platform, using her gravikinesis to control her descent. The wind rushed past her as she zipped across the room, the ground a blur beneath her. As she neared the end, she released the handle, landing gracefully on the ground.

    With one final burst of speed, Fii sprinted towards the finish line, crossing it with a triumphant yell. She skidded to a stop, panting heavily, sweat dripping down her face.

    Panting, she looked up to find Edith clapping slowly, a smirk on her face. "Not bad, not bad at all."

    Fii beamed with pride. "Thanks."

    "Let''s go again. This time, a bit faster. We''re recording everything, and I want to see how consistent you are with your use of gravity. Repeat the entire course six times and rest for five minutes in between. I want to see you maintain the pace for the entire exercise. Keep the heart rate steady. Then, you can take a break."

    "Uh, okay." Fii turned back to the entrance, taking a few breaths to recover. "Ready when you are."

    Edith pressed the button, and the timer began to count down. "3... 2... 1... Go!"

    For the rest of the day, Fii spent her time training on the obstacle course, only pausing to take water breaks. By the time the sun began to set, she was exhausted and sore, but she couldn''t help but marvel at the progress she''d made.

    Compared to the days of punching training dummies, she much preferred this agility training. Sure, there were still frustrations, but she loved the way the movement made her feel: light on her feet, graceful, and fluid. This was her true element, her natural gift.

    Even though she was tired and hungry, Fii couldn''t wait for the next day of training. She couldn''t wait to do it all over again.

    Edith approached her and put a hand on her shoulder. "Nice work today. I''m impressed. You managed to maintain the same level of intensity throughout the whole workout. Good work. Get some rest, eat something, and meet me back here in two days. We''ll be moving on to your final phase of training."

    "Final phase?" Fii blinked. "What''s the last part?"

    Edith grinned, pressing her glasses up her nose. "You''re going to learn how to deflect bullets...and I get to shoot at you."

    Fii gulped. "Uh...excuse me?"

 Chapter 9: Blocking Bullets

    Across the room, Edith was engrossed in her preparations. The pistol in her hand looked deceptively ordinary, but Fii knew better than to underestimate its power. It was a far cry from the pipe pistols and rifles that the smaller gangs and street thugs carried. This was the real deal: a gun that only the larger gangs had access to, thanks to their connections to the metropolis or other places outside the country.

    Fii gulped, steeling her nerves.

    The dummies stared back with their misshapen faces, their bulging eyes seeming to challenge her. They were silent witnesses to her fear; their metallic bodies bearing the scars of her previous training sessions. But today was different. Today, the stakes were higher.

    Edith''s fingers danced over the weapon, making minute adjustments. Nearby a speaker crackled to life, and Helix''s synthetic voice filled the room, its tone neutral, yet ever observant.

    [Calibration complete. Ready when you are, Dr. Edith.]

    "So...um...are you sure about this?" Fii asked nervously, keeping her hands in the air.

    "Positive," Edith replied, her voice calm and assured.

    Oh boy¡­

    Fii''s heart raced. She''d faced gangs, dodged enforcers, and navigated the treacherous streets of the slums, but this was different.

    She cleared her throat, trying to sound more confident than she felt. "You''re seriously going to shoot at me?"

    Dr. Edith looked up, her gaze sharp. "Yes. Theoretical knowledge is all well and good, but there''s no substitute for practical experience. You need to feel the pressure, the danger."

    Fii swallowed hard, her mouth suddenly dry. "And if I can''t deflect the bullets?"

    Edith''s lips quirked in a half-smile. "Then you''ll have a few bruises to remind you to do better next time. Don''t worry, they''re rubber bullets. Since you¡¯re a metahuman, they''ll hurt, but they won''t cause any lasting damage. Just make sure you wear those goggles."

    [Statistically, the chances of severe injury are minimal, provided you follow instructions and remain focused.]

    Fii took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "Alright. Let''s get this over with."

    Goggles ready, she slid into a defensive stance, feet shoulder-width apart, hands raised in anticipation. Every muscle in her body was coiled, ready to spring into action. She tried to recall the techniques she had learned, the hours of practice, but all she could focus on was the gun in Edith''s hand.

    Focus. This is just another test.

    She stared down the barrel of the pistol, unable to tear her eyes away from the tiny black hole at the tip. She watched as Edith''s finger twitched on the trigger, squeezing slowly, steadily, before the gun clicked.

    BANG!

    The sound of the gunshot was deafening in the enclosed space, and Fii''s instincts took over. She tried to dodge, but her movements were sluggish, her reactions too slow. The rubber bullet struck her shoulder with a blunt, painful thud, and a stinging sensation that lingered.

    "Ooowww!"

    Pain radiated from the impact point, and Fii gritted her teeth, trying not to cry out. She touched the spot gingerly, feeling the beginnings of a small bruise forming under her fingers.

    Edith lowered the gun, her eyebrows raised in surprise. "I expected you to use your gravikinesis," she remarked, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

    Helix''s voice cut through her pain. [Your reaction time was 0.3 seconds too slow. You can''t rely on dodging. You need to deflect the bullets.]

    Fii clutched her arm, trying to shake off the pain. "I... I wasn''t ready," she admitted, her voice shaky.

    "No one ever is," Edith replied, a wry smile on her face. "That''s why you have to be prepared. Always be on guard."

    Fii sighed, rubbing her shoulder. She got back up, planting her feet on the ground once again. "Fine. Let''s try this again."

    "Are you sure you want to continue?"

    "Yep. I can take a few punches. Bring it." Fii raised her hands into a defensive stance, determined not to be caught off guard this time.

    The gunshot rang out, echoing loudly in the enclosed space. Time seemed to slow as Fii watched the rubber bullet hurtle towards her. Panic surged, but she pushed it down, focusing instead on the gravitational field around her. She imagined a well of gravity in front of her, a force strong enough to pull the bullet off its trajectory.

    The bullet veered off course, missing her by a hair''s breadth. It slammed into one of the training dummies with a dull thud, leaving a visible dent in the metal.

    Fii let out a breath she hadn''t realized she''d been holding, relief flooding her. She had done it. She had deflected the bullet.

    "Haha, I did it!"

    Edith, however, was unimpressed. "That was sloppy," she commented, her voice sharp. "You need to be more precise. The bullet shouldn''t have come that close."

    Fii bristled at the criticism but bit back a retort. She knew Edith was right. "Got it," she said tersely. "I''ll do better next time."

    Helix''s voice interrupted their exchange. [Prepare for the next shot.]

    Fii took a deep breath, steeling herself. She couldn''t afford to be complacent. She needed to be better, faster. She focused once more on her gravikinesis, feeling the ebb and flow of the gravitational forces around her.

    Another shot rang out, and Fii was ready. She created a gravitational well, stronger and more precise this time. The rubber bullet veered off course, missing her by a wider margin. It bounced off the wall with a muffled thump.

    "That was better," Edith admitted, lowering the gun. "But you can still improve. Remember, it''s not just about deflecting the bullets. It''s about controlling where they go."

    Fii relaxed her stance, her body buzzing with adrenaline. She felt exhilarated, empowered.

    I can block...freakin''...bullets!

    "I got it," she replied, grinning. "Bring it on, Edith¡ª"

    Before Fii could finish her response, Edith raised the gun again, firing off a rapid succession of shots.

    Fii''s mind raced, her gravikinesis working overtime as she tried to deflect each bullet. She danced and weaved, using her powers to alter the bullets'' trajectories, sending them flying in all directions. But the sheer number of projectiles was overwhelming, and she soon found herself dodging and weaving, trying to avoid getting hit.

    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    Despite her best efforts, she felt the sting of rubber bullets all over her body. But she didn''t let the pain deter her. She kept moving, kept deflecting, using every ounce of her power to protect herself.

    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Edith stopped firing.

    Fii collapsed to the ground, panting heavily. Her body was covered in bruises, and her muscles ached from the exertion. But despite the pain, she couldn''t help but grin.

    Edith knelt down beside her, handing her a bottle of water. "Not bad," she remarked, a faint smile on her face. "But you''ve still got a long way to go before you''re ready to go out there and take on the gangs."

    Fii nodded, wincing as she prodded one of the bruises on her arm. "Yeah, I can tell." She gulped down the water, letting its coolness soothe her parched throat. She wiped her mouth, glancing at Edith. "How long do you think it''ll take?"

    "Honestly, it''s up to you. There aren''t any metahumans with gravikinesis out there that I know of. So, you''re going to have to learn based on your own intuition and observations. I''m only helping you with theory and some practical applications that I can think of. But most of it is on you to figure out."

    Fii sighed, staring down at her battered and bruised body. "So, does that mean we''re done for the day?"

    Edith discarded the empty magazine and reloaded the gun, then pressed her glasses up her nose. "Hardly. This is only the beginning. We still have a long way to go. Now, get up. We''re going again."

    Fii groaned, but she obeyed, getting back on her feet.

    <hr>

    The sun had begun its descent, casting long shadows across the warehouse. The dimming light gave the place an eerie ambiance, but Fii was too focused on her training to notice. She stood in the center of the room, her eyes darting around, trying to anticipate where the next projectile would come from.

    Edith had set up a series of automated launchers around the warehouse, each one capable of firing projectiles¡ªmore rubber bullets, pellets, and even paintballs¡ªat different speeds and angles. The machines moved silently through the room, almost blending in with the shadows. Their targets: Fii.

    The unpredictability of the launchers was meant to simulate a real-life combat scenario, where Fii wouldn''t have the luxury of knowing where the next attack would come from.

    "Remember," Dr. Edith called out from her vantage point near her desk, "the key is to anticipate the trajectory of the projectile and create a gravity well in its path. You won''t always have time to react, so you need to be proactive."

    Fii crouched low, shifting her weight from side to side as she prepared to spring into action. She could hear the whirring of the launchers as they powered up, and she braced herself for the onslaught.

    The first projectile shot out from a launcher to her left, and Fii reacted instantly, creating a gravity well that deflected it harmlessly away. But before she could celebrate her success, another projectile came hurtling towards her from the right. She quickly shifted her focus, creating another gravity well to deflect it.

    The projectiles came faster and faster, from all directions, and Fii found herself dancing around the room, creating gravity wells left and right. The strain was intense, but she managed to keep up, using her powers to guide the projectiles away from her. She ducked and weaved, never staying in one place for too long, and deflected each of the attacks.

    The rhythm of the battle became clear.

    Every now and then, she would be able to breathe and steal a moment to reflect, to think of how to adapt to the changing situation. Other times, she had to respond within a split-second, forcing her to rely on instinct and raw talent. Either way, the repetition made Fii''s reflexes sharper as she became accustomed to the ebb and flow of the exercise.

    She could feel herself getting better with each deflection, her reactions becoming sharper, her gravikinesis more precise.

    Suddenly, a projectile came hurtling towards her from above.

    She hadn''t anticipated that, and she barely had time to create a gravity well above her head. The projectile veered off course, narrowly missing her, but the close call cost her. In the split-second she was distracted, another projectile struck her on the shoulder, sending her stumbling backward.

    Fii cursed under her breath, but she recovered quickly, pushing herself back into the fray.

    "That was close," Edith remarked, her voice echoing across the room. "Stay focused."

    Fii nodded, wiping the sweat from her brow as she steadied herself for the next wave.

    The training continued; projectiles kept coming, and Fii kept deflecting them, getting faster and faster with each attempt. She lost track of time, her entire world narrowing down to the projectiles and her gravikinesis. She felt like she was in a trance, her movements becoming fluid and instinctual.

    Finally, after what felt like hours, the launchers powered down, and the room fell silent. Fii collapsed to the ground, her body aching and covered in sweat.

    Edith approached her, a look of approval on her face. "Well done," she said, nodding. "You''ve come a long way in a short amount of time. I''m impressed."

    Fii smiled weakly, too exhausted to speak. She just lay there, trying to catch her breath.

    After a few moments, Dr. Edith spoke up again. "Now, let''s move on to the next phase of your training."

    Fii groaned, rolling her eyes. "You''ve got to be kidding me," she muttered.

    Edith smirked, reaching under her desk and pulling out a small remote. "This," she said, holding it up for Fii to see, "is a drone controller. The drones are equipped with paintball guns, and they move much faster than the automated launchers."

    Fii gulped, her eyes locked onto the controller. She had seen drones before, and she knew how fast and agile they could be. "This is going to be fun," she deadpanned.

    "For this one," Edith continued, "we''re going to work on advanced deflection techniques. So far, you learned to create individual gravity wells to deflect projectiles. Starting now, you''ll learn to create a continuous gravitational field around you. Think of it as a shield."

    Fii''s eyes widened. "A gravity shield? That sounds... intense."

    "It is," Edith confirmed. "But it''s also essential. Sometimes, you won''t have the luxury of creating individual gravity wells for every bullet or projectile. You can fall back on this method as a catch-all defense. The principle is the same as before. But instead of creating individual gravity wells, you''ll be creating a continuous gravitational field around you. The challenge is to maintain the field for an extended length of time."

    "So, I''m creating a bubble of gravity around me?"

    Edith nodded. "Exactly. But remember, the field needs to be strong enough to deflect projectiles but not so strong that it pulls everything towards you."

    The whir of the drones'' motors filled the air, and the sleek, metallic machines sprang to life, zipping through warehouse. Fii''s eyes widened in alarm as she scrambled to her feet, her exhaustion forgotten.

    As the drones closed in, Fii took a moment to visualize the concept in her mind. She closed her eyes, focusing on her gravikinesis. She imagined a bubble of gravity forming around her, a protective shield that would keep her safe.

    She felt a familiar pull, and when she opened her eyes, she saw small pebbles and debris floating around her, caught in her gravitational field.

    The first drone fired, but its paintball whizzed past her, deflected by her defenses. Fii grinned in satisfaction. But before she could celebrate, another drone opened fire, its paintballs ricocheting off her invisible barrier.

    "Keep your focus," Edith shouted from a safe distance. "Don''t get cocky."

    Fii bit back a snarky reply, keeping her concentration on maintaining the gravitational field. The drones swarmed around her, relentlessly peppering her with paintballs. Some of their shots slipped through, nicking her, but the majority missed thanks to her efforts.

    As the battle wore on, Fii began to feel the strain. Maintaining a constant gravitational field was taxing, and she felt beads of sweat trickling down her forehead.

    The assault continued, and Fii found herself surrounded by a storm of paintballs. She deflected each attack with relative ease, her gravitational shield proving effective. But she soon realized that Edith had been right¡ªmaintaining the shield was a drain on her reserves. She could already feel herself tiring, her concentration faltering.

    Eventually, the drones flew back to their charging stations, and the warehouse fell silent. Fii released her gravitational field, collapsing to the ground again as exhaustion washed over her. She rolled onto her back, gazing up at the ceiling.

    "How did I do?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

    Edith peered over her desk, her gaze inscrutable. "You''re improving," she said. "But you still need to work on your stamina. You''ll burn through your reserves far too quickly if you don''t."

    Fii sighed, closing her eyes. Her limbs felt like lead, and she could barely lift them. "Yeah, I know."

    Edith offered her a small smile. "Don''t worry. We''ll keep working on it. And I promise you, you''ll master your power."

    Fii cracked open one eye, offering a weak smile. "Thanks, Edith."

    With a groan, Fii hauled herself off the floor, stumbling to her feet. She gingerly stretched her arms, wincing as her muscles protested. "So, no more training, right? You said this was the last one."

    "Yeah. Technically, I said the final phase of training, but same thing. However, that doesn''t mean your training is over. If anything, that means you can start practicing on your own. Once I''ve seen that you''ve comfortably passed the minimum requirements that I''ve set for each training phase, you''ll be cleared to go out and start making a name for yourself."

    "A name for myself?"

    Edith leaned back in her chair. "Well, yeah. How do you expect to become a superhero if no one knows who you are?"

    Fii shrugged. "I dunno, I figured you''d help me with that."

    "Oh, I will," Edith reassured her, smiling. "I''ll make sure you''ve got the equipment you need. You just have to come up with a name."

    <hr>

 Chapter 10: Debut, Part 1

    Two weeks later¡­

    Fii stood atop a dilapidated four-story building, her face hidden by a cybernetic helmet. It reminded her of the ones worn by the Ultimate Guardians, the city''s team of elite Supers.

    The helmet snugly encased her visage, its surface a dark, matte finish that absorbed the glow from the sunrise over the horizon. Horn-like protrusions emerged from the top, sharp and sleek, reminiscent of some ancient warrior, yet undeniably high-tech.

    As she gazed across the sprawling landscape of the slums, her visor illuminated, casting eerie luminescence in the shape of solid light blue eyes. They weren''t just apertures of light; they were expressions, allowing her to convey emotions, lending an additional layer of humanity to her new identity. Below the visor, chin lamps cast a soft glow, subtly outlining her jawline and throwing a soft glow on the carbon-fiber weave of her techwear attire.

    Her outfit consisted of a sleek, form-fitting bodysuit layered with tactical armor, protecting her vital areas while allowing her to maintain mobility. Her forearms and shins were encased in vambraces and greaves, respectively, providing an additional layer of protection.

    A leather jacket clung tightly to her frame, its fabric-paneled design complimenting the streamlined aesthetics of her bodysuit. She wore sturdy boots that provided grip while remaining lightweight, ideal for traversing the rooftops of the slums. A utility belt wrapped around her waist, carrying a variety of useful items.

    She felt the pull of the Earth beneath her, a familiar tug she''d come to recognize.

    With a determined exhale, Fii sprinted forward, her feet pounding against the weathered rooftop. As she reached the edge, she leaped, the world blurring around her. But instead of the stomach-churning drop she''d experienced countless times before, there was a gentle descent. Her Gravikinesis kicked in, allowing her to glide gracefully to the ground. The impact was soft, like landing on a cushion of air.

    A few early risers paused in their tasks, their eyes wide with surprise and awe. Whispers spread through the crowd, their tones a mix of awe and disbelief. "Did you see that?" one woman exclaimed. "She just... floated down!"

    A man riding his moped honked his horn, swerving out of her path.

    "Watch where you''re going, jackass!" he yelled.

    The visor''s LED eyes blinked once, a brief expression of surprise that matched Fii''s own.

    Whoops. Guess I''m not used to this yet. Sorry.

    Fii waved sheepishly, but the pedestrian merely grunted, shaking his head before returning to his commute.

    With a sigh, Fii set off down the street, trying to ignore the stares and whispers.

    Not...exactly the reception she was expecting.

    She didn''t blame them. After all, the city''s superheroes, like the Ultimate Guardians, never ventured into the slums. And she didn''t look like any of the famous ones, anyway. She was a masked nobody. An unknown entity.

    At least, for now.

    But the way they were looking at her, she knew that look too well. It was the same look she probably had whenever she saw someone doing something weird and crazy out on the streets. A look that said: "Who is this crazy-looking idiot?"

    The truth was, Fii felt like an idiot. She hadn''t planned on her debut being quite so...ordinary.

    She''d spent the last week practicing her catchphrases, poses, and everything in between. But now, standing amidst the bustle and grime of the slums, she felt woefully unprepared.

    "Uh, hi there, um..." Fii''s voice trailed off, her words sounding garbled and distorted by the vocal modulator attached to her helmet. She resisted the urge to grimace. This wasn''t going well. At all. "I''m, uh, Axion, and I...er...help people...you guys, I guess?"

    Great. Nice one. Way to go, Fii. Super eloquent.

    She mentally chastised herself for her awkward wording and lame introduction, but she tried to play it off. She kept moving, hoping they would lose interest and turn away.

    Instead, they watched her with increasing bewilderment and suspicion. Their eyes tracked her, unblinking and questioning. Some of them even laughed. Fii winced inwardly, but she kept moving, scanning the crowd for anyone in immediate need. But aside from some hushed whispers, they remained uninterested, content to watch her wander aimlessly through their streets.

    What a warm welcome.

    Just as she was about to give up and slink off in embarrassment, she spotted an old woman, her back hunched with age, struggling to hang her laundry on a high line. Fii watched as the woman stretched on her tiptoes, her fingers just inches away from the clothespin. Without a word, Fii rushed over, reaching out to steady the elderly woman with a hand on her back. "Here, let me help," she offered, her voice warm and reassuring.

    The old woman yelped in surprise, nearly losing her balance. "W-Who are you?" she sputtered. "What do you want?"

    "It''s okay," Fii reassured her, reaching for the clothing line. "I''m here to help." With one arm, she deftly attached the woman''s clothing to the line, smoothing the fabric with her gloved hands. She turned to the old woman, flashing the LEDs of her helmet in the pattern of a bright smile. "There you go. All done."

    The old woman gaped, her mouth agape with shock. "Y-You''re a meta," she whispered. "One of them metas in the news. The heroes."

    Fii gave a polite nod. "Have a nice day," she said, before turning away, leaving the woman in stunned silence.

    As Fii walked off, she could hear the crowd whispering amongst themselves. "Can you believe it? A metahuman, here, in the slums!" "Did you see the way she jumped off the roof and glided down?" "She''s one of those Supers. We never get them around here." "I didn''t know they even cared about us."

    The comments sent a shiver down Fii''s spine, and she tried not to let the praise get to her. After all, she wasn''t a Super. Not yet, at least. But she was on the path to becoming one, and that thought brought a smile to her lips.

    Fii wandered the streets of the slums, greeting the passersby with a courteous wave or a friendly hello. Most of the people responded in kind, with surprised but pleasant nods. The odd one or two responded with a nervous, suspicious stare. Others, perhaps those wary of strangers or with something to hide, ignored her altogether.

    The majority, however, simply stared, their eyes tracking her as she moved. It wasn''t fear or disdain; Fii sensed no hostility from them. It was curiosity, and Fii understood why. She''d grown up here, too, and she''d never encountered a hero, nor even any metas, except in the news feeds the televisions blared from some of the shops at the Rust Market.

    She imagined these people thought the same: What was a hero, or even a meta, doing here, in the slums?

    But Fii had a reason. A goal. She had to earn the respect and trust of the people in the slums, prove that she was here to help them.

    As she strolled along, Fii noted the crumbling structures and the pothole-ridden roads. The cracks ran deep, and the streets teemed with stray animals and litter. In the distance, she saw a group of kids playing. They chased one another with sticks, laughing and shouting as they darted between the ramshackle buildings.

    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

    <How''s it going out there?> Edith''s voice echoed inside Fii''s helmet, startling her. <I can''t wait to see the footage. Are there any crowds yet? Oh, what I wouldn''t do for some real-time video.>

    Fii sighed, lowering her voice so only Edith could hear. "Er¡­Edith, can you tone it down a little?"

    <Hmm?> Edith sounded genuinely confused. <Sorry, am I distracting you?>

    "Um, yes, and I''m not exactly used to the voice comms either," Fii hissed. "I thought you''d only contact me if I needed help."

    <Ah. Well, that was the plan> Edith replied, her tone apologetic. <But the cameras aren''t calibrating properly, and I wanted to double-check the audio pickups. This is all still experimental, you know. I don''t want you to have an issue with signal loss or static in the field. There''s nothing worse than listening to a fuzzy, incomprehensible feed in the middle of a tense situation.>

    Fii sighed. Edith had a point.

    "Okay. Thanks, Edith."

    Edith hummed, clearly pleased. <So, how is it so far?>

    "Not much happening so far," Fii replied, glancing around at the deserted streets. "I met a few people, helped with some odd jobs, but mostly, I''ve just been walking."

    Edith snorted, but she didn''t sound disappointed.

    Fii nodded, despite the fact that Edith couldn''t see her. "I will, Edith. I''ll keep you posted."

    With a final murmur of thanks, Fii cut the connection. The earpiece in her helmet went silent once more, and she heaved a sigh of relief. Alone at last.

    Of course, as soon as the thought crossed her mind, she felt a tug on her jacket. "Hey, you got any food?" a young, sandy-haired boy asked, his big eyes staring up at her hopefully. He had a slight lisp and was missing a few teeth.

    She studied him for a moment, taking in the dirt smeared on his face and the rags he wore as clothing. His bare, unkempt feet poked out from holes in the bottom of his shoes.

    "Um..." Fii glanced around, noticing several more children had gathered, all watching her with hungry eyes.

    She sighed and rummaged through the pockets of her jacket for the few Synthie bars she had stuffed in there earlier. "Here you go."

    The boy accepted the snacks with a shy smile, quickly passing them along to his friends. Within moments, they were scarfing down the food, their faces practically glowing with delight. "Thanks, robot!"

    Did...did they just call her a robot?

    "Wait, no, I''m not¡ª" Fii began to protest, but they''d already scampered off. She watched as they disappeared around the corner, their laughter echoing off the crumbling brick walls.

    What part of her looked like a robot? The helmet?

    She walked over to a window and stared at her reflection. Her LED eyes stared back, their pale blue hue striking against the jet-black visor. "Hmm," Fii mused. "Maybe I do look a bit like a robot."

    The cybernetic helmet that Edith had given her did have a robotic appearance. It boasted a full-face covering, with a transparent polymer for the visor and carbon-fiber weave for the rest of the exterior. It was light, durable, and, most importantly, allowed for clear vision while concealing her identity.

    She traced the smooth, hard contours with her gloved fingertips.

    "It''s not that bad," she muttered, poking at the metal horns that protruded from either side. "These make me look, I dunno, cool." She posed for a moment, admiring herself in the broken window''s reflection.

    "What are you doing?" A voice interrupted her, jarring her back to reality.

    Fii spun around, startled, to find a teenage girl close to her age staring at her curiously. The girl wore a grubby T-shirt and shorts, and her tangled hair was held back in a loose braid. She raised her eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by Fii''s antics.

    Fii cleared her throat, straightening her jacket. "Nothing." She couldn''t help but notice the way the girl''s eyes seemed to take in the details of her techsuit and helmet. "Can I...help you with something?"

    The girl hesitated, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Are you a Super?"

    "Ah...well, I¡ª"

    Before Fii could finish her sentence, the girl interrupted, "You must be, right? With a getup like that. Can you show me some tricks?"

    "Tricks?" Fii repeated, confused. "What kind of tricks?"

    "You know, flying and stuff. Do some of that wooshy-vomph-thing that the superheroes do." The girl made a few exaggerated motions with her hands, presumably demonstrating what she meant by ''woosh'' and ''vomph''.

    "Flying and wooshes?" Fii parroted. She hadn''t learned how to fly yet, but she did work on a few things to impress the crowd.

    After spotting a few pieces of debris laying in the street, Fii knelt down and picked them up. They were discarded soda cans and bottles, but they were good enough. She could do a few fun tricks with them.

    The girl cocked her head, studying Fii curiously. "What are you doing?"

    "Here, watch this." The LED lights of Fii''s helmet squinted to make it seem like she''s smiling.

    Fii focused, her hands outstretched, and the cans and bottles lifted off the ground and began to float. She twisted her wrists, and they started orbiting around her, spinning and twirling through the air.

    The girl''s eyes widened, her jaw dropping in amazement. "Woah," she breathed, her eyes following the debris as they danced through the air. "How are you doing that?"

    Fii shrugged, the movement causing the debris to shift slightly. "I can control gravity. See?"

    "What''s gravity?" the girl asked, her eyes still glued to the floating debris.

    A small tear pricked at Fii''s eyes, and her helmet''s eyes narrowed further to mimic a sad expression.

    I knew I wasn''t the only one who didn''t know about it. See, Edith? It''s not just me!

    "Well," Fii replied, "gravity is the thing that makes things fall down. That''s all that you really need to know about it. That''s the important thing."

    The girl finally tore her eyes away from the floating debris to glance up at Fii. "Huh. That''s neat." She studied Fii for a moment before gesturing to the debris. "So why are they doing that, then?"

    Fii thought for a moment before shrugging again. "Because I want them to." It was simple enough, but she didn''t know how else to explain it. She waved her arms again, and the debris stopped in midair before being lowered gently to the ground.

    The girl stared at them for a moment, clearly impressed by the display. "Neat trick."

    "Thanks. My name''s Axion." Fii introduced herself. She stuck her hand out for a handshake, but the girl ignored her, her attention drawn to something behind Fii.

    "Toby! Hey, Toby! Come check this out!" the girl called over her shoulder, waving to someone behind her. "This robot can move things around without touching them! Pretty cool, huh?"

    Fii followed the girl''s gaze to see a group of boys approaching, all of them around the same age as the girl. "Hey, what''s all the noise about?" one of the boys called out.

    "Look what she can do!" the girl shouted, pointing to Fii. "Come on, show them!" She turned back to Fii, her eyes pleading.

    Again with the robot? Really?

    Fii gave an inward sigh before nodding. "All right, all right. But just so we''re clear, I''m not a robot."

    She picked up a few more pieces of discarded debris, cradling them in her arms, and then closed her eyes to focus. She concentrated, picturing the debris floating around her body. "Ta-daa." She grinned, opening her eyes and presenting her little gravity magic show.

    The eyes of the newcomers immediately widened in disbelief, their jaws hanging open as they gaped at the spectacle. "Whoah," one of them murmured. "That''s awesome."

    Fii nodded, pleased at the reaction. "Thanks." She dropped the debris again, letting it clatter to the ground. "I can do more, but those are the basics."

    The girl frowned. "Aw, don''t stop, please." She nudged the boy named Toby with her elbow. "Tell her to keep going," she insisted. "She can move things without touching them."

    Toby flushed, but nodded in agreement. "Yeah, keep going! Do more!"

    Fii shook her head, smiling at the eagerness of the group. "I''m sorry, but I don''t want to wear myself out too quickly." She crouched down and retrieved the discarded trash, placing them back where she found them. "Besides, you all should try to clean up more, so our neighborhood doesn''t stay this dirty. Okay?"

    They all nodded their heads, seemingly ashamed at being called out on the mess.

    Fii straightened and patted them on the shoulders. "That''s the spirit."

    She couldn''t help but feel pride at getting them to take responsibility for a little bit. It might not have been much, but every little bit helped. She glanced around at the dilapidated buildings, her eyes lingering on the cracks and crumbling bricks.

    It''s the least I can do to help these kids grow up into responsible adults. Who knows, maybe someday, they''ll be the ones fixing all of this.

    "What are you, some sort of Super or something?" another boy asked.

    Fii nodded, grinning proudly from within her helmet. "Yep! That''s me, Axion. And I''m here to help."

    <hr>

 Chapter 11: Debut, Part 2

    The teens exchanged glances, their expressions uncertain. Finally, one of them spoke up. "Help us? How? We''re not sick or hurt or anything. And we don''t have any money to pay you."

    "I don''t care about the money," Fii insisted, shaking her head. "I just want to help." She paused, unsure how to continue. "Do you guys need help with anything, then? If not, I''ll move on to help other people. I just wanted to say hi and introduce myself."

    They eyed Fii dubiously, obviously suspicious of her intentions.

    Yep. They know their stuff around here. Just like I do. Always be careful when strangers offer to help, especially around these parts.

    "Why would you wanna help us?" the girl asked, crossing her arms. "Nobody cares about the slums. Supers won''t come anywhere near here, and the hawks in the sky only show up when some gangs poke the wrong people. They only come to clean up the mess. So, what''s the catch, robot lady?"

    "There is no catch, I promise." Fii paused, her helmet''s LED eyes narrowing to mimic a curious, friendly expression. "I know what it''s like too. I''ve lived here my entire life. The slum is home, whether we like it or not, and if I can help make it a better place, that''s what I''m gonna do. Starting with you guys."

    The teens'' eyes widened, their mouths dropping open in shock. "No way. Seriously?" the girl gasped.

    "You''re lying. Robots don''t live here," another of the boys accused.

    Fii marched over to him and leaned in close to his face. Her LED eyes widened to dramatic effect. "Hey, slumshine. I...said...I''m not a robot! You''re brighter than a busted bulb, aren''t ya?!"

    The boy backed up, cowering slightly under the intensity of her stare. "Geez, okay, okay, I''m sorry. Jeez." He raised his hands defensively, palms out. "It''s cool, we believe you. Just take it easy, all right?"

    Fii straightened up, nodding. "Thank you," she said primly, dusting off her jacket.

    Suddenly, she felt a hand grope her butt, and she yelped in surprise, jumping forward. She whirled around to glare at the perpetrator¡ªa brown-haired boy who was staring at his hand in awe.

    "Soft..." he whispered, wiggling his fingers.

    "Wha¡ªwhat the hell?" Fii squeaked. Her LED eyes widened to display the mortification she was feeling.

    The girl stalked forward, cracking her knuckles ominously. "Oi, Jarrod," she growled, grabbing the offender by the collar and yanking him close. "Didn''t I tell you to keep your hands to yourself?" She balled her fists threateningly.

    The boy, Jarrod, cringed, his eyes widening in terror. "But Tika, I just wanted to know if she was really a robot or not. I swear! I thought she''d be hard, but she''s so soft and squishy..." His voice trailed off as he stared dreamily at Fii.

    Fii shuddered, edging away from the creepy teen.

    "Man, you''re such a perv, Jarrod," another teen, a shorter boy with a mop of black hair, laughed. "Even robots have standards, you know."

    "Hey, I''m not a robot!" Fii snapped, planting her hands on her hips. "And you, Jarrod, better keep your hands to yourself unless you want a slap to the face."

    The boy averted his gaze, a sulk creeping into his tone. "Sorry," he grumbled. "I wasn''t thinking."

    Tika released her hold on the boy''s collar, shoving him away. "Good. Now behave, or I''ll knock your block off." She stepped in front of Fii, as if to protect her from any further harassment.

    "Hey, why does your voice sound all weird?" the mop-haired boy asked, eyeing Fii curiously. "Are you sick or something?"

    "I''m not sick. This is the sound my helmet makes to disguise my voice," Fii explained, reaching up to tap the sleek cybernetic helmet. "If people recognized my real voice, they might figure out who I am, and I''d be in a lot of trouble with the gangs."

    The teens nodded sagely.

    "That''s smart," the girl said. "Better safe than sorry." She held out her hand to Fii. "Nice to meet you, uh, Axion. I''m Tika."

    Fii beamed, eagerly clasping the girl''s hand and giving it a firm shake. She and Tika would get along really well if she wasn''t in costume. "Nice to meet you, too. Like I said, call me Axion. What are your names?"

    "I''m Rae. The skinny one''s Kieran, the redhead''s Toby, and the perv over there''s Jarrod."

    Jarrod glared at the others for outing him so easily, but Fii ignored him. She took the opportunity to study the group, noting their threadbare clothes and the bruises and cuts marring their faces and limbs. They all looked like they could use a decent meal and a long nap.

    "So," Fii said, trying to strike up a conversation, "uh, what do you guys usually do around here?"

    The teenagers shrugged, exchanging glances. "Hang out, I guess," Tika replied. "A few of us do some ClipRunning for Tinks, but most of the time, we just hang out here."

    Fii nodded in understanding. ClipRunners were children or teens who earned their living running errands, delivering messages, and occasionally, stealing items for gangs and the like. She''d been one for a while, before meeting Edith.

    "Yeah, sometimes we go exploring the other districts," Rae added, gesturing vaguely toward the outskirts of the slums. "Just for kicks, ya know? But other than that, there''s not much to do here."

    Maybe some of them weren''t that smart after all. The outskirt zones were some of the most dangerous areas in the slums. The gangs that made their turfs out there were much more trigger-happy and brutal than the ones that operated in the inner-slum territories.

    "I dunno, but isn''t that dangerous?" Fii couldn''t help but ask. "The border isn''t the safest place to go, even for ClipRunners. Why would you risk going out there for fun?"

    The teenagers shrugged, seemingly indifferent to the danger. "It''s not like we''ve got anything else to do," Tika pointed out. "Besides, it beats hanging around here all day. And we don''t go too far into the outskirts anyway."

    Fii bit her lip, feeling torn. On the one hand, she wanted to scold them for being reckless. They could get themselves killed. On the other hand, she could sympathize with their desire to escape the monotony of daily life here. Besides, they probably weren''t completely ignorant of the risks. They should''ve already learned about the dangers by now.

    She didn''t like it, but she knew better than to judge. After all, she''d taken plenty of risks to earn money, even becoming a runner for one of the local gangs. In hindsight, it wasn''t the best idea, but she''d had no choice at the time.

    "As long as you guys are being safe, I''m not going to give you a hard time about it." She sighed, shaking her head in mock disapproval. "Just...try to be careful, okay? I don''t want to have to rescue you because you get in over your heads."

    The teenagers grinned, nodding obediently. "Don''t worry, we will. We''re not stupid."

    "Speak for yourself," Jarrod mumbled. Tika shot him a warning glare, and he shut his mouth.

    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    Fii chuckled softly, shaking her head in amusement. "Anyways, it''s nice to meet you all. I''d love to hang out more, but I really should be going. Got to help more people and whatnot."

    She gave the group a brief wave before turning away to walk down the street.

    "Wait," the girl¡ªTika¡ªcalled out, jogging after her. "We might have something you can help with. Hang on." She tugged on Fii''s jacket sleeve, pulling her to a stop.

    Fii paused, glancing back at the group. "Really? What is it?"

    Tika scratched the back of her neck, her expression sheepish. "Well, a water pipe broke near here, and the flow won''t stop. The adults are trying to patch the hole, but they can''t stop the water from coming out. Could you fix that? Like, make the water stop flowing?"

    Fii''s brow furrowed as she considered the request. Could she fix something like that? She didn''t have much experience with plumbing, but she supposed she could try. After all, she was a Super now¡ªit was her duty to help the people of the slums.

    "Sure! I can try. Where''s the leak?" Fii said, trying to inject some enthusiasm into her tone.

    Tika pointed down the street, to the left. "Follow me."

    With that, the group set off, and Fii fell into step beside Tika.

    <hr>

    They approached a large crowd gathered around a ruptured water pipe. Water spewed out in wild arcs, turning the ground into a muddy mess. People jostled with buckets and pots, trying to collect the precious fluid before it washed away into the sewer drains.

    In the slums, water was gold. And right now, it was being wasted.

    The crowd parted for Tika, and the group led Fii to the source of the leak. She spotted a handful of adults trying to patch the hole, but the flow of water was too great, and the temporary repairs kept falling away.

    The LED eyes on Fii''s mask narrowed as she strode forward to take a closer look. The damage appeared to be on the underside of the pipe, making it difficult to reach. Still, she could see the problem¡ªa large crack ran down the middle of the pipe, and the edges looked corroded. The pipe was old, and it had likely been leaking for some time before finally bursting.

    "I can probably seal that temporarily," Fii said.

    "For real? You think you can fix that?" Tika''s face lit up with hope, and the other kids peered at Fii with eager faces.

    The older members of the crowd, meanwhile, glanced at one another, their expressions skeptical. Fii didn''t blame them.

    She closed her eyes for a moment. Focus, focus.

    All that time Edith made her study, drilling every bit of physics, maths, and science into her skull. There''s gotta be a way to apply what she knows.

    Maybe if she could increase the gravitational pull around the crack, even momentarily, it might pull the broken edges together, sealing the breach. It was a long shot, but she had to try.

    But she needed to get close. It was still too hard to extend her gravity field and affect things beyond arm''s reach.

    Guess she couldn''t avoid getting wet while trying to fix this thing.

    Fii edged toward the spraying water and reached out to touch the side of the pipe. She took a deep breath, focusing on the sensation she''d come to recognize as her gravikinesis. She felt the familiar tug, her gravity field responding to her will, and she imagined it reaching out, towards the water''s exit.

    Almost immediately, the water''s velocity decreased. It was as if an invisible force was pressing down right at the exit point, making it harder for the water to escape. The spray became a trickle, giving Fii a small window to act.

    From the corner of her eye, she spotted a discarded metal sheet. It wasn''t much, but it would have to do. She picked it up, feeling its weight, and then placed it over the crack. Focusing once more, she increased the gravitational pull on the metal sheet, pressing it firmly against the pipe. The sheet adhered to the pipe as if an invisible hand was holding it in place, sealing the breakage. The makeshift solution wouldn''t hold forever, but it would buy them some time until a more permanent fix could be arranged.

    "Hey! Can anyone clamp this down?" Fii called to the crowd, but they didn''t respond. "Please? Anyone?"

    A middle-aged man in a grease-stained overall stepped forward, raising his voice so he could be heard over the cheers and applause from the crowd. "I''ve got some tools in my shop," he said, pointing to a nearby building. "Give me a minute."

    The man hurried away, returning shortly with a few pipe repair clamps and a wrench. "I''ve been waiting for one of them city-slickers to fix this mess, but it looks like they ain''t gonna do squat." He gestured to the pipe as he began to secure the clamps to the metal sheet Fii had placed over the break.

    "City folks always leave us to deal with our own problems. Probably see the leaks as a way to wash some of us away from the gutters, like rainwater in the street." The man spat to the side in disgust before continuing his work. "Heh, so to have one of you Supers helping us slumfolk, it''s... something, that''s for sure."

    Another man, with a tool belt slung low on his hips, began rummaging through it, pulling out a piece of rubber and some wire. "We''ll need to tighten the clamps real good and add some of this rubber cement. It might not hold forever, but it''ll help stop the water from corroding the clamps."

    The two men got to work, wrapping the rubber around the damaged section of the pipe. The younger man held the clamps in place while the older man began tightening them, ensuring the rubber was pressed firmly against the pipe, sealing the crack.

    Several others joined in, bringing tools and supplies, and they worked together to reinforce the pipe and repair the breakage. Fii, still maintaining her gravitational hold, could feel the strain lessening as the makeshift repairs took hold. She slowly released her power, and the pipe remained intact.

    Soon, the sound of flowing water faded, leaving only the splashing and drips from the puddles formed from the recent burst.

    The crowd erupted in cheers, patting each other on the back and praising the quick thinking of their neighbors.

    Fii grinned, her mask''s eyes blinking happily to indicate the same. It wasn''t often that the people of the slums came together as a community, but when they did, they showed just how resourceful and capable they could be.

    Tika bounced excitedly, tugging on Fii''s jacket. "Axion! Axion, that was amazing!"

    "It was nothing," Fii replied, ducking her head sheepishly. "I''m just glad I could help."

    The crowd had gathered around her now, and people reached out to touch her shoulders or brush their fingers against her techsuit, as if to assure themselves that she was real.

    The two men who had assisted in the repairs were still smiling broadly, their cheeks flushed with pride. "Well, I''ll be damned. A Super, here, in the slums," the younger man said. "I''ve never seen anything like it."

    "Me neither," the older man agreed. "And here I thought they only cared about the rich folk in the city. Who''d have thought they''d send a Super to help us here, in the slums?"

    Fii had never seen them before, but she thanked them nonetheless, giving each a firm handshake. "I''m not from the city. I live here, too, actually."

    Their eyes widened with surprise, and the men exchanged incredulous looks. "Here? You, a Super?"

    Fii nodded. "Yup. Born and raised."

    The men whistled in disbelief, and the crowd murmured amongst themselves.

    "So how come you only show up now?" a voice from the crowd questioned. "Where you been all this time? We''ve never seen you before!"

    The onlookers quieted, waiting for Fii''s answer. She fumbled for words, not sure how to respond. "Uh...well, I''ve only just discovered my powers." It wasn''t entirely true, but it was the simplest explanation she could offer.

    "Is that how it works?" Another voice asked. "Some Supers just suddenly realize they have powers?"

    Fii shrugged. "I guess so. Maybe?" It was a plausible explanation, but she felt like she should give them something more substantial. "I''ve...been away for a while, learning how to control my abilities. And, uh, anyways, I''m here now! That''s what matters."

    The crowd nodded, seeming to accept the explanation, and a ripple of excitement passed through the gathered crowd.

    "So, are you going to patrol the streets, Super?" Someone asked.

    "Yeah, are you going to help with the gang wars?" Another asked.

    The questions kept coming, one after another, and Fii struggled to keep up. "Well, I, um, I guess I''ll...start with helping out wherever I can," she answered, her tone somewhat uncertain. She''d never been responsible for addressing a crowd, and she wasn''t sure how to respond. "I don''t really have a plan, but I''m here to help. Whatever you guys need, I''ll do my best."

    "You got a name?" A woman asked. "The Ultimate Guardians always have these fancy names. Don''t you got one?"

    "Oh, right. Sorry. Yeah, I''m Axion."

    "That''s a weird name," one of the teenagers snickered.

    "Is it a robot?" asked a voice at the back of the crowd.

    "Nuh-uh! She''s a girl. Her butt''s too soft to be a robot!" The pipsqueak named Jarrod from earlier yelled, only to be abruptly kicked on the shin by Tika. "OW! Hey, what was that for, you bi¡ª"

    "I''m Axion." Fii tried to calm the crowd and steer the conversation back on track. "I''m here to help. Now, if you''ll excuse me, I have to be going."

    She reduced her weight and jumped high into the air. The crowd gasped as she floated higher, landing on top of a two-story building with ease.

    "T-Take care!" Fii stammered, quickly gathering her bearings before launching herself through the air, leaping from rooftop to rooftop.

    <hr>

 Chapter 12: Brink of Collapse, Part 1

    One week later¡­

    Axion''s sneakers scuffed the pavement as she touched down, releasing the gravitational field around herself. She rolled forward to absorb the impact, the motion having become second nature. She''d been practicing a lot, and her landing maneuvers were becoming smoother.

    The last week had gone by in a blur. She''d spent hours helping the folks in the slums with daily chores. She had found ways to use her power for basic things, like lifting heavy objects, fetching items from high places, and even moving around debris. Her abilities seemed to surprise everyone she encountered, but they also earned her a few good reactions.

    It wasn''t flashy, but people appreciated the assistance, and she enjoyed being able to finally do something useful with her power. She hadn''t managed to do anything spectacular, but the small things added up, and the days flew by quickly. She''d become a jack-of-all-trades, but she still made time to chat and play with the children, answering their questions and laughing with them.

    "There she is! It''s that Super again, Axion!"

    The calls echoed down the narrow streets, and she turned to wave.

    Axion.

    It wasn''t the first name she picked for herself, but Edith insisted on the name for branding purposes¡ªwhatever that meant. She thought the other names that she came up with sounded so much better, but Edith was the expert. And if Edith believed that her future as a Super hinged on the name Axion, then that was the name she''d go with.

    It still took getting used to, but she was beginning to embrace her superhero identity. Axion¡ªIt felt like a new pair of shoes, snug but unfamiliar.

    Today, her patrol led her to the marketplace. Stalls lined up like old friends, their makeshift roofs of tattered cloth and metal sheets offering a patchy shade. Despite their rundown appearances, the market was buzzing with activity. The distant hum of a generator, the rhythmic beat of a drum, and the chatter of bartering voices rose above the din, all sounds she''d come to associate with home.

    The smell of cooked meat wafted through the air, and her stomach let out a quiet rumble.

    Maybe a snack before she continued her rounds wouldn''t be such a bad idea.

    "Hey, robot girl, over here!" One of the vendors, a woman selling roasted vegetables, waved to her. "Robot girl! Come try our specials! They''re on sale today!"

    The woman held up a stick of freshly grilled corn, the smell wafting in the air. "Hot and delicious, right off the grill! It''s just ten Tinks! A steal, right?"

    Axion suppressed a sigh. She wasn''t a robot, but she knew the nickname would stick, especially as the locals began recognizing her techsuit. Instead, she opted for a friendly smile, the LED eyes on her visor narrowing in a cheery expression. "Hello, ma''am. How are you today?"

    "Can''t complain." The vendor shrugged. "Business has been slow lately, but you Supers coming around has helped a lot. Would you like to buy a cob? Freshly grilled! They''re delicious!" She thrust the corn forward, pushing the vegetable into Axion''s personal space. "Go on, take a bite!"

    Axion chuckled. The woman''s sales pitch was certainly enthusiastic. "I suppose I could eat something, now that you mention it." She could use the calories after all the physical work she''d been doing.

    "Great! Here, take it for three Tinks. Just because you''re a Super." The woman grinned as she extended her hand, beckoning for payment.

    Axion''s LED eyes quirked, the expression mimicking a raised eyebrow. "Isn''t that¡­just your normal price?" She asked, but the woman only gave her an unabashed grin.

    She relented, digging out a few tin coins and dropping them into the woman''s open palm. "Thanks."

    "You''re welcome! Come again!" the woman replied, still wearing a bright smile. "Your helmet is so cool, by the way! You look like you have robot head."

    "Right..." Axion sighed inwardly, biting back the urge to correct the woman. Instead, she offered the vendor a polite nod, her mask''s eyes blinking happily, before she moved to continue her patrol. "Have a good day!"

    She walked further into the market, passing by a variety of stalls and shops.

    "Mmm...corn. My favorite. I mean, Edith''s favorite. That''s why I bought it." Axion mumbled under her breath. She''d hoped nobody would be able to make out what she was saying.

    She continued walking through the market, the crowd parting naturally before her. It seemed word had gotten out that a new Super had arrived in the slums, and the people had taken to calling her "Robot Girl" or "Axion" (or both).

    She scanned the stalls as she walked, her gaze darting over the colorful array of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other goods on display. Vendors called out, advertising their wares, and customers haggled over prices, the clamor of the crowd rising and falling in a steady cacophony.

    Axion weaved through the throng, keeping an eye out for anything unusual or suspicious. So far, everything seemed peaceful.

    A pair of ClipRunners dashed past her, almost knocking her over. One of the kids apologized while the other flipped her the bird before running away, and Axion''s eyes narrowed in a disapproving stare.

    "Be careful! I''m a superhero, you know," she chided, but the children didn''t heed her warning. "Kids," she muttered under her breath as they disappeared into the crowd.

    She couldn''t really blame them too much for rushing off, though. They were doing their jobs as ClipRunners, after all. Delivering messages and small packages around the slums for an extra meal or a handful of Tink was their daily hustle. She did a bit of that a couple of years ago before picking up other odd jobs.

    A tune from a nearby radio caught her ear, and she found herself humming along. It was an old song, one her mom used to sing when she was little. The memory tugged at her heart, and she shook her head, pushing it away.

    Not now. Focus.

    "Hey, Miss Superhero, I like your suit! Can you lift this cart for me?" A gruff voice called out to Axion. "Hey, you listening?"

    She turned to see a burly man in a stained apron and gloves, sweating from the heat of a food stall''s propane-powered stove. Several cuts of raw meat sizzled on the grill, and the man pointed to a handcart overloaded with bags of various ingredients. "C''mere and lift that for me, eh? Be a doll, yeah?" He jerked a thumb in the direction of the cart. "Prolly you can lift it easy-peasy."

    Axion studied the cart for a moment before approaching. "Why? Doesn''t this thing have wheels?" she asked, pointing at the wheels. "It should be easier to roll than carry. No?"

    The man grunted, stabbing at a strip of meat. "They flat, you dolt. Dunno when I can get ''em fixed or refloated." He jammed his thumb against his chest, adding, "I''m busy cooking, alright? Just move it and make some space for me. That''s all you gotta do."

    She was tempted to tell the man where to shove his attitude, but she remembered her mission¡ªto help as many people as possible. "Where do you want the cart?"

    "Over there," the man grumbled, jerking his chin over his shoulder. "Move it, please, and thanks."

    She stared at the man''s sweat-stained back before rolling her eyes and turning her attention back to the handcart. After activating her gravity field, she pulled the cart to where the man indicated, right next to his stall.

    The man didn''t bother to thank her once she finished her task, and she could only glower at the lack of acknowledgment before returning to her patrol.

    After a while, she found herself nearing the outskirts of the market. The noise and activity of the crowd began to fade as the rows of stalls gave way to narrow alleys lined with shacks and old buildings. The pavement was cracked and potholed, garbage and debris lay scattered across the ground, and graffiti-covered walls rose on either side.

    Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    This was where the people of the slums lived, scraping by as best they could.

    As she rounded a corner, a child darted in front of her, nearly tripping her. Axion instinctively reached out with her power, lightening her own gravity to avoid a collision. The sensation was like floating, a brief moment of weightlessness before she grounded herself again. The child, oblivious, continued on, chasing after a makeshift ball.

    She blinked, her mask mimicking the action.

    That was odd. She hadn''t meant to use her power, but she had reacted on instinct. Was she getting better at controlling her power?

    She tucked the stray thought away, resuming her stroll.

    "Robot Girl! Hey, Robot Girl!"

    She cringed inwardly as the chorus of children''s voices reached her ears. She glanced over her shoulder and spotted the ragtag group of street urchins rushing after her. She turned, preparing herself for another onslaught of requests.

    The children were hollering at the top of their lungs, their voices deafening. "Can you fly? Do you have a laser beam? Can you do a flip?" They crowded around her, tugging at her clothes, jostling each other for attention. "Can you float over the river? Can you throw us into the air?"

    The ground beneath her feet trembled. It started as a faint vibration, like the distant hum of an old engine. But within moments, it grew into a violent shake, causing the very foundations of the slums to shudder. The children immediately scattered, scrambling to hide among the surrounding stalls and shacks.

    The familiar sounds of the marketplace¡ªchildren''s laughter, vendors hawking their wares, the distant hum of a radio¡ªwere replaced by panicked cries and frightened shouts.

    "Earthquake!" someone shouted.

    Stalls toppled, spilling their goods onto the dirt. Vendors abandoned their merchandise, running for cover.

    The vibrations intensified, and the shacks and buildings around them swayed, creaking and groaning under the pressure.

    Then, as suddenly as the tremors had started, they stopped. All was still.

    She exhaled slowly, releasing the breath she''d been holding.

    A series of rapid, sharp cracks echoed through the marketplace, drawing the attention of the gathered crowd.

    She tensed. What now?

    She looked toward the direction of the noise, and her LED eyes widened in alarm. "Wha¡ªoh no..."

    An eight-story dilapidated building at the edge of the square, already showing signs of wear and tear, now had visible fractures snaking up its walls. A fine cloud of dust began to rise from its base, followed by the faint sound of cracking, like the splintering of wood. The windows on the lower floors shattered outward, sending shards of glass spraying into the square.

    The building''s walls started to bulge outward, the bricks and mortar straining against the force of gravity. A series of rapid, sharp cracks echoed through the marketplace, each one louder than the last.

    The crowd panicked, and screams filled the air as people began to flee, stampeding over each other in their haste. "Get back! Get back!" A voice bellowed. "It''s gonna collapse! Move!"

    People in the vicinity scrambled to safety, scattering in all directions. Vendors abandoned their stalls, grabbing whatever they could carry and fleeing from the danger zone. Parents scooped up their children, lifting them into their arms or carrying them on their backs.

    Axion''s heart raced. She could see a few children near the building, staring up at the ominous sight. They looked lost, confused, and terrified.

    Oh crap! Oh crap!

    Without hesitation, she sprinted towards them, her gravikinesis lightening her steps, making her feel as if she was gliding over the ground.

    As she neared the building, the situation worsened. The upper floors of the structure began to sag, leaning precariously over the street below. The sounds of shattering glass filled the air as windows broke under the strain, raining shards onto the ground below.

    Reaching the children, she scooped up the nearest one, a young girl with wide, terrified eyes. "Hold on!" she shouted, holding the girl tightly against her chest. She tapped into her power, focusing on reducing her body''s weight, allowing herself to lighten her body and the child she was carrying.

    She dashed to the other two children, grabbing the closest boy, hoisting him onto her shoulders. She focused on the third, a younger boy, who clutched the hem of her jacket.

    The vibrations of the building''s imminent collapse reached through the soles of her shoes.

    Oh, no. Not good. Not good at all!

    She printed away from the building as fast as she could with the children in tow. All around her, people screamed and fled for their lives. The sounds of the building''s groaning intensified, growing louder as the walls buckled under the strain.

    After reaching a safe distance, she skidded to a halt, her feet slipping on the rubble beneath her. She set the children down, but her relief was short-lived as one of the boys tugged at her arm. "Help! My mom''s inside!"

    She whipped her head towards the boy, her LED eyes widening. "What?!"

    "My mom''s still inside!" The boy cried, pointing frantically at the building.

    "On it!" She bolted back toward the collapsing building. "Stay put! I''m going to get her!" she yelled over her shoulder.

    How many people were inside? How much time did they have left?

    Panic rose in her mind. What could she do?

    The remaining floors groaned ominously, the creaking of the metal support beams growing more urgent. The foundation of the building trembled, the rumbling rising to a crescendo as the upper levels threatened to come crashing down.

    She gritted her teeth, summoning her courage.

    It''s now or never. I have to do something.

    She rushed through the open entrance of the building. Inside, people shouted and pushed against each other to get out. A large chunk of the ceiling began to give way, threatening to crush a group of people below.

    She leaped up to intercept the falling debris, extending her gravity field to lower its weight as she caught the concrete slab with both hands.

    The falling rubble slowed as both descended, allowing the trapped individuals to scramble to safety just in time. She landed, the impact softened by the combination of her techsuit and her powers, before releasing the fallen concrete. As soon as she let go, its weight returned to normal, and the slab crashed to the floor.

    Panting, she shook out her hands, and then surveyed the scene. Most people were near the exits, but several figures, their faces obscured by the dust, lingered near the back¡ªchunks of debris from the ceiling falling in front of them.

    "Crap!" Axion rushed over, extended her hands, and focused, pushing herself to increase her range, and the slabs of falling rubble slowed. People scrambled under them and escaped before she lowered the slabs to the floor with a loud bang.

    "You! Out!" Axion yelled to those who remained, gesturing for them to flee the building. "Now! Everyone, outside, move!"

    The stragglers wasted no time obeying her commands and headed out through the broken window or the shattered doorway. She held off the rest of the debris that was now slowly falling from the ceiling, waiting for the last person on the floor to leave the area.

    From the second level, the sounds of panic rose and drew her attention. She zipped to the staircase and hurried to the higher floors, jumping between chunks of debris and dodging falling slabs.

    Axion dashed up the stairwell, reducing her weight once more, and hurried to the higher floors, jumping between chunks of debris and dodging falling slabs. She checked each level, spotting only a few stragglers as she ascended.

    As people streamed out, she continued her efforts, constantly adjusting her gravity field to adapt to the shifting debris. Every so often, a large chunk of masonry would break free, and she would rush to intercept it, using her powers to divert its trajectory or slow its fall.

    She burst through the door on the fourth floor, racing up the stairs and through the hallway to the apartment units.

    "Anyone here?! Hello!?" she called out, but her pleas fell on deaf ears.

    She scanned the area but found nothing. It seemed to be empty, save for the falling pieces of plaster and metal. A section of the wall had collapsed, exposing the building''s internal structure, and a large crack snaked up the ceiling, growing wider by the second.

    "Is anyone there?" she tried again. Silence. Cautiously, she entered one of the apartments and glanced around, but the only movement was the occasional shift of the flooring beneath her feet. She quickly exited the unit and ran to the others, but her search yielded the same result.

    Four more floors to go.

    Axion proceeded to the next floor and repeated her routine: entering each apartment unit, scanning it for people, and calling out to anyone who might be hiding. With every floor she cleared, her sense of urgency grew, but so did her confidence.

    More sections began to collapse, and she barely avoided being crushed by the debris. She ducked and dodged through the cascading rubble, while the smaller debris orbited her body, repelled by the gravity field she projected.

    Her instincts screamed for her to get out, to save herself.

    No! There are still people in here! I can''t give up now. I can''t!

    She pressed on, reaching the sixth floor, desperately searching for stragglers. Time seemed to slow as her eyes darted around, scanning for movement amidst the chaos.

    Finally, her eyes locked on a figure¡ªa woman, curled in the fetal position, partially hidden by the wreckage. Her eyes were closed, and her face was marred by cuts and bruises. A shelf had collapsed over her lower body, trapping her in place.

    "I got you!" she exclaimed. She scrambled towards the injured woman, carefully lifting the shelf off of her, setting the debris aside. "Ma''am, can you hear me? Ma''am!"

    The woman didn''t stir, her eyes remaining closed. She was bleeding heavily from a nasty gash on her forehead.

    Axion pulled the unconscious woman out of the wreckage, sweeping her into her arms.

    She scanned the room for other people.

    No one left, hopefully. Time to get out.

    Cradling the wounded woman, she lowered her gravity field as much as she dared for both of them.

    Fastest exit.

    Window.

    There was one on the other side of the room. She took a step toward it, and¡ª

    The floor gave way from under her feet, and the ceiling lurched downward, bringing with it an avalanche of debris.

    "Shi¡ª"

    <hr>

 Chapter 13: Brink of Collapse, Part 2

    <hr>

    Pain.

    Everything hurt.

    Axion blinked, trying to make sense of the blurry, hazy shapes hovering over her. Gradually, they resolved into the concerned faces of the other residents of the slums, peering down at her. The edges of her vision remained blurred, the world seeming to tilt and swirl around her. The ground beneath her was cold and damp. People spoke to her, but the words sounded garbled, like she was underwater.

    Was she dying? Did she die?

    She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Only a dry, hacking cough. Her throat felt sore.

    What happened? The building... the earthquake, and the collapse, and the injured woman, and¡ª

    "Wait!" She shot upright, instantly regretting it as the pain blossomed throughout her body, wracking her with agony. She sank back down, hissing in discomfort. "The woman. Where''s the woman?"

    She felt something stir beneath her.

    "Still here." The woman''s voice was a raspy croak. "Right here."

    Axion blinked, the image finally focusing.

    The woman was still curled up in her arms. Her skin was caked with dust and dried blood. But she was alive. Breathing. Alert.

    Thank god.

    Axion exhaled, closing her eyes as a wave of relief washed over her. She looked around her. It looked as though she was lying on the remains of a pile of rubble at the edge of the now-collapsed building.

    The familiar feeling of her gravity field still enveloped her, protecting her. She nudged the slab of concrete that was resting against her back with her head. It slid off her, slowly floating to the ground, while the rest of the debris shifted around her.

    The sound of voices stirred Axion from her thoughts. A group of people were talking excitedly amongst themselves, gesturing wildly to the street.

    She struggled to sit up, a fresh wave of dizziness washing over her. She had to lean on the woman beside her for support, who seemed equally shaken. With her other hand, she cupped her helmet. "Ow," she winced.

    She surveyed the area. Buildings on all sides had partially collapsed, leaving the street littered with debris and chunks of concrete. A thick haze of dust and smoke hung in the air, obscuring the sun.

    "You okay?" She asked the woman she was supporting.

    The woman nodded, though her face was contorted with pain. "I think so." Her voice was shaky.

    "We''ll get you some help. Hang in there," Axion said, trying to reassure the woman. "Um...I can carry you somewhere more comfortable if you want."

    The woman shook her head. "It''s alright. I''m...I''m okay." Her voice cracked.

    Axion patted the woman''s shoulder. "Okay."

    She strained to stand up. Everything in her body felt heavy, and she ached all over. Even so, she forced herself to her feet. She wobbled unsteadily before catching herself, taking a moment to let her bearings settle.

    The people around her began to clear a path for her to exit. Slowly, Axion limped her way towards the street, where she could see a crowd had gathered. Faces swarmed before her, the onlookers parting to let her pass. Their expressions ranged from amazement to shock, but they were all directed at her.

    She slumped against a wall for support. The adrenaline from earlier had worn off, and the fatigue was now starting to set in. She was about to slump down and catch her breath when she saw the kid from earlier rush to the woman she rescued, crying as he clung to her.

    The kid was blubbering something, and the woman hugged her child. Her shoulders shuddered, tears streaking down her cheeks, and the kid buried his face in her lap, bawling his eyes out.

    A surge of pride swelled in Axion''s chest, and her mask''s eyes curved upward to mimic her expression. She was exhausted, but seeing the happy reunion warmed her heart.

    The marketplace had been reduced to a mess of broken and toppled stalls. The crowd whispered amongst themselves, their faces streaked with sweat and dirt. Some were nursing injuries, while others helped those in need. It seemed a few people had died, though the extent of the damage was still unclear.

    From the looks on their faces, though, they seemed more relieved than anything.

    She pushed herself off the wall, straightening her posture. There were still a lot of things she could do to help, like clearing the rubble and finding any other injured people. And as Axion, she''d do just that.

    <hr>

    "Ow!" Fii winced as Edith adjusted her bandages, pulling tight on the gauze wrapped around her chest. "Easy!"

    Edith gave Fii''s arm a comforting squeeze before continuing her work, looping the bandage around Fii''s torso. "Almost done, hold still," she said, her tone stern. "It''s important to keep the wound clean and covered to prevent infection."

    Fii sucked in a breath through her teeth as Edith finished securing the bandage. "Alright, alright, I got it." She rolled her shoulder, wincing at the dull throb of pain that pulsed through her. "So, how''s the woman I rescued doing?"

    Edith cleared her throat. "She''s recovering in the other room." She flashed Fii a weary smile. "She''ll be okay, but it''ll take time."

    Fii nodded. "Good to hear." She stared down at her bandaged ribs, her mind replaying the events of the day. "So...it''s all over, huh? I can''t believe an earthquake hit so suddenly."

    "And a fairly large one at that. We''re lucky you were on site." Edith reached up, pressing her fingers gently on Fii''s cheek. "You saved so many lives."

    The words filled Fii with pride. "Of course." She puffed up her chest, a small smile on her lips. "I''m a Superhero. That''s what I do, right?"

    "Well, not every Super goes beyond their job description, but...good on you." Edith turned to rummage through the cabinets, retrieving a bottle of pills and a couple of small pots of salve. "These should help with the pain. You''re a metahuman now, but even with your accelerated healing, you won''t fully recover for at least a few days. And a few more before the pain subsides entirely."

    "Eh, I''ll be fine," Fii said with a shrug, attempting to appear nonchalant. "It''s nothing I can''t handle. It''s not the first time I''ve gotten a beating. I''ve taken harder hits for less, and I''m not dead yet. This is a piece of cake." She flexed her arm, ignoring the jolt of pain that traveled through her body. "See? I''m still as fit as ever."

    Edith let out an exasperated sigh. "That''s...not the point. You did good, but based on what you said and what your suit''s sensors recorded, you''re lucky that you and the woman you carried survived the collapse. Don''t push yourself." Her expression softened into a gentle smile. "You''ve helped a lot of people today, and you should be proud. Now, take these. Don''t make me shove them down your throat."

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    "Ack, okay, okay!" Fii held out her hand, accepting the proffered medicine. "Geez, you''re bossy today." She popped a pill into her mouth, swallowing it with a swig of water from the bottle Edith handed to her.

    Fii lay on her side on the examination table, closing her eyes. The low buzz of the fluorescent lights overhead hummed in her ears. She felt...tired. Physically and mentally, drained.

    Today had been eventful, to say the least. Between helping the aftermath of the earthquake and tending to the wounded, she had barely gotten any rest since arriving at Edith''s clinic.

    Edith took a seat on a nearby chair, and the two fell into a comfortable silence.

    Fii''s thoughts drifted to the faces of the people she''d helped today. She could still recall their smiles, the tears of joy in their eyes, the gratitude in their voices.

    After a moment, Edith finally spoke up. "So, what''s it like to finally be a Superhero?"

    Fii opened one eye, her brow furrowing. "Huh?" She blinked, turning to meet Edith''s gaze. "I mean, it''s...great? I''m not really sure, to be honest. It''s kinda weird, and scary, and exciting all at the same time."

    She propped herself up on one elbow, looking down at her bandaged chest. "It''s not what I expected, that''s for sure." She paused for a moment, letting out a soft chuckle. "But I guess that''s not a bad thing, y''know?"

    "Hmm." Edith hummed in agreement. "True. There''s no set formula to being a hero, and it takes time to adjust to the demands of the job. That said, you handled today''s disaster very well, all things considered."

    Edith patted Fii''s head, her hand coming to a rest on her shoulder. "You''ve made great progress. Keep up the good work, and you''ll be an asset to the community in no time."

    Fii allowed herself a smile. "You think so?"

    "I know so." Edith gave her shoulder a light squeeze. "Anyways, rest here for a bit. I''ve still got a lot of work to do with the other patients." She rose to her feet, brushing a stray strand of hair out of Fii''s eyes. "Let Sheri know if you need anything, alright?"

    "Gotcha." Fii yawned, settling back onto the table. "Thanks, Edith."

    Edith offered her a brief nod before turning to leave. "You have no idea how hard it is to perform surgeries without proper medical training," she mumbled under her breath, just loud enough for Fii to overhear.

    Are those people going to be okay?

    The question floated in the back of her mind, but she couldn''t muster the energy to ask. She would find out eventually, and no matter how much of a skimmer Edith was, Fii trusted she''d do her best. So, they would be fine. Probably. Maybe.

    Fii closed her eyes again. She needed a nap. Or a week''s worth of sleep. Preferably both.

    <hr>

    Edith slumped on her chair, exhausted from the long day. She closed her eyes, letting her head fall back. Her body ached, her head throbbed, and the smell of disinfectant burned in her nose. She''d spent almost the whole day treating people, and her mind was frazzled.

    This wasn''t her usual gig, after all.

    But now that things have settled somewhat, she finally had time to look at the data that Fii''s suit and helmet had collected during the incident¡ªthe readings on the gravitational fluctuations, the stress her techsuit''s systems went through, and the various ways her body was reacting to the gravity alterations. Fascinating stuff.

    Fii''s TFSI was within a reasonable range, until the point where the building had collapsed. By Fii''s own account, she had used her powers to cushion the impact of the fall and to deflect the debris away from herself and the victim.

    The suit''s scanners also indicated she sustained an injury to her back and ribs, likely from the impact. Edith didn''t detect a spinal injury, thankfully. However, Fii also experienced some muscle strains and bruising due to the added G-forces involved in her stunt.

    All in all, Fii had done an impressive job handling herself. And it was only her first major outing as a Superhero. If this was what she was capable of on her own, the possibilities of what she could accomplish with further training and experience were limitless.

    "That girl..." Edith muttered, shaking her head in disbelief. "She''s going to be a handful. I just know it."

    As she continued her analysis, the sound of footsteps reached her ears. She turned, only to be greeted by the sight of her assistant, Sheri, entering the room with a cup of coffee in one hand.

    Sheri smiled apologetically. "Sorry, Edith, I got caught up with a patient." She offered the mug to Edith, who gratefully accepted. "Here. Black, no sugar, just how you like it."

    "Thanks." Edith took a sip, savoring the bitter taste of the dark brew. "Mm. Perfect. So, how''s our favorite slum resident doing?"

    Sheri shrugged. "Better than she was when she came in. The kid''s tough, I''ll give her that. She''s already snoozing like a baby in the other room." She took a seat at the desk next to Edith, the chair squeaking as she did so.

    "Heh, you''re telling me. It''s kind of adorable." Edith leaned back in her chair, staring up at the ceiling. "We did good today, all things considered. I''m glad the worst of the injuries we treated were lacerations and broken bones."

    "Mmm." Sheri hummed in agreement. "Fortunately, the clinic got by mostly unscathed. Other buildings weren''t so lucky, though. Though, I''m surprised that the Tower of Song and the Tower of Silence both managed to not collapse. They were both in poor shape to begin with."

    "Those towers are probably older than the slum itself," Edith pointed out. "They''ve survived numerous earthquakes before. They might end up being around after we''re all gone."

    "Yeah, you''ve got a point." Sheri stretched her arms out, her spine cracking audibly as she did so. "Ugh, I''m beat. It''s been a long day for us all. Any plans for the evening?"

    "Just looking at more reports, and studying this data the suit recorded from Fii''s performance," Edith replied, her eyes fixed on the computer screen before her. "That, and reviewing the information on the metropolis'' new laws on Superhero registration. Seems like they''re getting more aggressive with their enforcement."

    Sheri raised an eyebrow and tapped her finger on her chin. "Are they cracking down on unregistered Metas or something?"

    "Mostly." Edith swiveled the monitor around to show Sheri the data. "Apparently, the metropolis has decided to take a more active role in policing the Superhero scene. While they still have their own licensed and vetted heroes, they also plan to exert greater control over the independent vigilantes and their activities, including requiring all Supers to register and get licenses. And not the cheap ones either, but the legit ones."

    "It shouldn''t matter for Fii, right? We''re not in the metropolis, and she''s just a slum kid. It''s not like they have jurisdiction here, do they?"

    Edith shrugged. "Technically, they do. They only care enough about what happens in the slums to appease the general public who wants to believe their government does something for those living outside of the city walls. But really, unless something catastrophic happens here that affects the metropolis directly, no one there will lift a finger. So, we shouldn''t have to worry about her getting caught. At least, not yet."

    "Unless, y''know, she decides to visit the metropolis on her own. Then they might start paying attention to her. Like if she saves someone important, or she becomes a celebrity. Those guys tend to draw a lot of attention. Sometimes not the good kind." Sheri clicked her tongue, shaking her head.

    "No one from the slums can go into the metropolis, even if they were a metahuman," Edith retorted. "There''s a strict process of identification and authentication required to even consider granting a slum-dweller access. She''d be stuck in a checkpoint or customs line for ages. Not to mention you need a lot of money to even try. Unless she plans to sneak in, I doubt she''d make it past the front gate."

    Sheri snorted, amusement twinkling in her eyes. "Can''t imagine a poor girl from the slums becoming a big deal in the metropolis, though, can you?" She drummed her fingers on the table. "It''s funny, isn''t it? We spend our days hoping for a better tomorrow, yet, at the same time, we can''t imagine a tomorrow where the slums don''t exist. When everything is better."

    Edith sighed, rubbing her temples. "Honestly, I can''t tell whether you''re joking or being serious sometimes." She eyed Sheri suspiciously, earning her a small grin. "We both know the slums aren''t going anywhere anytime soon. And I can''t pretend to understand where you''re coming from since I''m not from here. But this is the reality of life here, and there''s not much anyone can do to change that. Well, at least, not on their own, that is."

    "Hey, hey, I''m just saying. I was just having a bit of fun." Sheri chuckled. "Still, Fii has the potential to be a game-changer. Who knows? Maybe one day, she might be a hero to the metropolis, and they''ll start caring more about the slums and the people who live here. A girl can dream, can''t she?" She tilted her head, casting Edith a sideways glance.

    Edith let out an uncharacteristic giggle. "Look at you, getting all sentimental and mushy. I didn''t know you were such a romantic, Sheri."

    Sheri lifted her hands, shrugging nonchalantly. "Eh, what can I say? I''m a sucker for a good story. Plus, the kid''s a local. It would be nice to see a local make something of herself for once, y''know?"

    "Well, she''s going to have to work hard, that''s for sure." Edith took another sip of her coffee. "If she wants to be the hero of the slums, then she better get ready for a rough ride ahead."

    "And you''re going to help her every step of the way, right? Be her guide, her mentor, her pillar of support..." Sheri trailed off, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively. "I''ve always wanted to say that. Y''know, the wise older teacher guiding the young, naive student along a righteous path..."

    "I don''t know about that last part, but I''m already invested in her growth." Edith laughed, her expression turning thoughtful. "It''s ironic, isn''t it? For all my talk about wanting to stay out of trouble, I''ve now signed myself up for a massive headache."

 Chapter 14: Tussle with the Gully Rats

    Fii sat cross-legged atop a large water tower, watching the setting sun bleed across the horizon. The sky was stained with brilliant reds and oranges, and the faint sounds of chatter from the neighborhood below drifted into the evening air.

    Taking a deep breath, Fii enjoyed the moment of peace. After spending the whole afternoon and early evening assisting with the cleanup following the earthquake, she deserved this little break. Sure, it was tiring work, but it felt good to be doing something for the betterment of the slums.

    Satisfied, she relaxed her posture, shifting to a more comfortable position on the roof. She closed her eyes, taking in the sounds of the evening, the scent of rain lingering in the air. The light breeze tickled her exposed skin and the cool air was refreshing.

    She began to doze, her mind drifting into a pleasant reverie. Until a light tapping on the water tower''s metal surface brought her out of her half-conscious state. Blinking, she glanced over to the source.

    A young man was standing on a small maintenance platform to the left of her, grinning widely. "Yo!" He called out to her, waving enthusiastically. "I''ve seen you around, haven''t I?"

    "Uhhh, hi?" Fii gave the guy a hesitant wave. She didn''t recognize him, and the fact that he''d climbed up to the water tower without her noticing was a bit alarming.

    How did he sneak up on me like that? I was supposed to be on high alert. Am I that tired?

    The guy let out a hearty laugh. "Relax! Just here to check the water pressure. And maybe chat with you? I''ve got a few minutes to kill."

    Fii forced a polite smile, not sure if she believed him or not. "Okay?" She furrowed her brows, her eyes narrowing slightly as she examined the newcomer.

    The stranger was tall and lean, with an athletic build. His pale complexion and shaggy blonde hair gave him a boyish appearance, and the friendly way he carried himself seemed to exude an easygoing personality. He wore a simple green jumpsuit and toolbelt, and he sported a pair of protective goggles around his neck.

    He also bore a large scar along the left side of his face, extending from the top of his forehead to the bottom of his chin. The pale line cut through his eyelid, revealing a milky white, clouded eye underneath.

    "The name''s Quinn," he introduced himself, casually strolling up to Fii and extending a hand in greeting. "Nice to meet you, by the way."

    "Ah, uh...nice to meet you, too? I''m Fii." She hesitated, reluctantly taking his hand and shaking it firmly.

    "What''s got you up here?" Quinn asked, taking a seat beside her. "Normally, people hang around below, not on top of the water tower."

    Fii shifted awkwardly. "I, uh, came here to think. It''s my first time climbing up here. I hadn''t realized how high up it was, and now that I''m here, I''m enjoying the view, I guess."

    "Ha! I''m the opposite. I climb up here all the time. It''s nice to get away from everyone for a bit. Fresh air and all that." Quinn ran his fingers through his hair, his expression growing wistful. "It helps me clear my mind. Helps me get through the day, ya know?"

    "Yea, I get that. Kinda been the same for me lately, I guess. Haven''t had a lot of time for myself." Fii let out a slight sigh.

    "I feel ya. There''s always something happening in the slums. Something''s always going wrong, and there''s never enough people to fix the problems. It can be...stressful." Quinn''s tone turned somber. "Everyone''s got to chip in, otherwise the entire community''s gonna suffer. And we can''t have that."

    "Right," Fii agreed. She cocked her head at him. "What''s your gig in the slums, anyways? How come I''ve never seen you before?"

    "Eh, I help out where I can, mainly with maintenance, repairs, and keeping the water flowing. Makes sense why you haven''t run into me before. My routes don''t normally take me through this part of the slums, so I guess we''ve just missed each other." Quinn scratched his head, sheepishly chuckling. "So, what about you? What''s your gig?"

    Fii shifted nervously, avoiding eye contact. "Oh, y''know, just helping where I can. Odd jobs, that sort of thing. Nothing fancy." She kicked her feet over the side of the water tower, resting them on the beam below. "What''s up with the scar? It''s, uh, kinda noticeable." She winced. "No offense."

    Quinn touched the scar across his face, running a finger along its length. "This? Eh, it was from a fight with a gang member. He thought I was an easy target. Turns out I wasn''t." He flashed a sly smile, winking at Fii with his one good eye. "So, did you get caught in the earthquake the other day, or did you manage to avoid the worst of it?"

    "Actually, I was in the middle of it. Got hurt, but I''m fine now," Fii admitted.

    "Dang, sorry to hear that." Quinn flashed Fii an apologetic smile. "I hope you weren''t hurt too badly. I heard there was a big building collapse in the marketplace. Hope nobody got crushed or anything." He waved his hands frantically. "I mean, not to imply you were in that, I just meant like¡ª"

    "No, no, I get what you mean." Fii stifled a laugh at Quinn''s fumbling response. "I, uh, was somewhere else when that happened. A few things fell on top of me, and I was a bit banged up, that''s all."

    "Is that so? Well, I''m glad you''re okay." Quinn reached out to pat her on the shoulder.

    "Yeah, me too." Fii managed a small smile.

    "Oh!" Quinn snapped his fingers. "Speaking of the earthquake, have you heard about this Super that suddenly showed up recently? Apparently, she''s a local. Didn''t even grow up in the metropolis. I mean, how crazy is that? An actual superhero in the slums." He turned to Fii, flashing her a wide grin. "Can you believe it?"

    Fii''s eyes widened, and her jaw dropped slightly. She quickly composed herself, clearing her throat as she tried to keep her tone casual. "H-Huh, really? I, uh, h-h-hadn''t heard anything about that." She grimaced, mentally kicking herself for her nervous stuttering. "Wow, that''s, uh, a surprise. Right?"

    "Right, yeah." Quinn nodded in agreement. "It''s crazy! Apparently her name is Axion or something. Dunno what her power is, though. From what I''ve heard, she hasn''t done a lot of fighting yet. More of a rescue and cleanup type." He tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Still, she''s gotta have something, right?"

    Fii let out a dry cough, trying not to appear too eager to contribute to the conversation. "Probably. I mean, if she''s a real Super, she''s got to have a power or two, right? Wouldn''t make much sense otherwise." She paused, struggling to find the words to continue. "Er, right?"

    "Right." Quinn nodded, then raised his eyebrow. "You okay? You seem a bit...tense."

    Fii waved a hand dismissively. "Ah, I''m fine, I''m fine. Just...got a lot on my mind. Sorry. Anyway, about this Superhero..." Her voice trailed off, a flush creeping up her cheeks. She could feel her heartbeat quicken, and she took a deep breath to calm her nerves.

    "Yeah, Axion. From what I''ve heard, she''s already saved a few people during the earthquake, and she helped clean up afterward." Quinn continued, seeming unfazed by Fii''s awkward behavior. "I mean, isn''t that what superheroes are supposed to do? Help others?"

    Fii nodded silently, averting her eyes. Her mind raced with a multitude of questions. Why was Quinn bringing up Axion? Did he know something about her identity? Was he trying to get her to reveal herself? This has got to be just a coincidence, right?

    She shifted uncomfortably, her leg bouncing involuntarily. "Y-Yeah, that''s true. It''s good she''s helping out. Really good." She hoped she sounded convincing.

    "For sure. I hope she stays around and keeps up the good work. The slums need all the heroes we can get." Quinn patted Fii on the shoulder again. "Anyways, I''ve got to finish my rounds, and you''ve got things to do, I bet. We''ll catch up sometime, right? Maybe I can buy you a drink or something."

    "R-Right, yes. Of course. Yeah. That would be great!" Fii exclaimed, her words stumbling over each other. She slapped her hands over her mouth, realizing she may have come off as a little overeager.

    Quinn winked at her and grinned, seeming to appreciate her enthusiasm. "Cool, catch you around, Fii. Don''t forget to watch out for the gangs! And try not to get caught up in any more disasters, okay? Take care." And with that, Quinn hopped off the ledge, disappearing behind the other side of the water tank.

    Fii blinked, unsure of what to make of the encounter. She watched as Quinn climbed down the ladder, noting his surprisingly agile movements. He seemed to glide down the structure with ease. In seconds, he vanished out of sight.

    Huh, he seemed like a good guy, but I hope I didn''t give too much away. Or do anything suspicious.

    Fii shook her head and lay down on the tank, staring at the sky. She contemplated going after Quinn to see what he was up to, but he didn''t seem particularly dangerous. She also still needed a minute or two to collect her thoughts before returning to the clinic. So, instead, she remained where she was, soaking in the last rays of daylight as she pondered the unexpected encounter.

    <hr>

    Axion leaped from rooftop to rooftop, landing gracefully on the metal tiles with barely a sound. She stopped at the edge of a building, scanning the street below for signs of trouble. Her vision was sharp and focused, her mask''s visor amplifying her sight, allowing her to see everything clearly even in the dim lighting of the night.

    The streets were quiet and empty, save for the occasional drifter passing by or an animal scurrying around. Nothing appeared unusual. However, she noticed that some of the streetlamps along the path were flickering intermittently, their light sputtering as they struggled to remain on.

    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.

    She crouched low, readying herself to jump to the next building, when a flash of movement in the alley below caught her attention. She narrowed her eyes, focusing on the movement.

    A group of men approached a lone figure, armed with bats and chains. They surrounded their intended target, backing him into a corner. The leader of the group sneered and pulled out a knife, pointing it threateningly at the victim.

    The victim, a scrawny teenager with a mop of brown hair, pressed himself against the wall, holding up his arms in surrender. "Look, I said I was sorry, alright? I didn''t know they were yours. Please, I don''t want any trouble." His voice cracked as he spoke.

    The man jabbed his weapon forward, making the teen flinch. "You''re singing to the scrapheap, brat. You and your whole family are as good as dead now."

    The other members of the gang brandished their own weapons, the glint of steel reflecting in the lamplight.

    Axion frowned, recognizing the emblem embroidered on the gang member''s clothing¡ªGully Rats. As far as small gangs went, they were pretty brutal. Their turf was concentrated around the southwest end, but they had a habit of intruding on other gang territories. She''d already run into them a few times before. They seemed intent on stirring up trouble tonight.

    Without wasting any time, she jumped down into the alleyway, landing behind the gang members with a loud thud. She straightened up, raising her fists, ready to strike. "Hey," she said, her voice slightly distorted by the filter in her helmet.

    The gang leader spun around, glaring at her. "Who the hell are you?" he snarled, brandishing his blade. His subordinates followed suit, wielding their weapons at her. "Get lost! This doesn''t involve you."

    The Gully Rats stood in a loose semicircle around her and the kid. Most of them held knives, bats, and chains. Only one of them, the apparent leader, held a pipe pistol. All of them were eyeing her warily, clearly not used to dealing with unknowns.

    Axion strode forward, the confidence in her gait betraying none of the apprehension she felt. "Let the kid go. He''s not worth getting into a fight with me over." She tilted her head, peering at the gang leader through the visor. "Unless you wanna get your butt whooped by a Superhero."

    "Pfft. Superhero?" The gang leader spat, glaring at her. "Buzz off, tinhead, before I send you to the junkyard." He jabbed his gun in Axion''s direction, baring his teeth in a snarl. "One warning, that''s all you''re getting from us. Now beat it, or I''ll plug you full of lead."

    "Try it. See what happens," she retorted, her tone hard and cold.

    The gang leader''s lip curled in anger, and he pulled the trigger. A deafening crack rang out as the pistol fired.

    Axion held her ground, reaching out with her power. The bullet curved to the side, crashing into a dumpster. She stepped forward, her movements fluid and graceful, as she rushed the gang leader. Before he could fire another shot, she closed the distance, striking him across the jaw.

    The gang leader stumbled back, clutching his face, blood dribbling through his fingers. Axion ignored him, focusing her attention on the others. She lashed out, hitting the nearest attacker with a sweeping kick, knocking him off-balance.

    The other Gully Rat members surged forward, attacking en masse, swinging wildly. She ducked, dodging a bat, and swung her foot outward, sending one assailant sprawling into the trash.

    But her efforts earned her no respite, as several others moved to engage.

    She narrowly avoided a chain whip aimed at her head, the metal links whistling as they flew by. She retaliated with a swift punch, sending the gangster reeling with a bloody nose.

    Another Gully Rat rushed her from the side, thrusting his bat at her stomach. She twisted aside, grabbing the weapon as it passed. Using her momentum, she yanked the bat forward, dragging the man off balance. She turned on the balls of her feet, pivoting and slamming her elbow into his back, throwing him to the ground.

    A shadow loomed overhead. Her head snapped back as a chain struck the side of her helmet. The impact jarred her senses, causing her ears to ring, but the reinforced material kept her skull from being pulverized. Still, she staggered, momentarily stunned.

    The Gully Rat who''d swung the chain grinned, thinking he''d gained the upper hand. He lunged at her, chain raised for another strike. Axion''s instincts kicked in. She reached out, manipulating her own gravity to make herself lighter. The world seemed to slow as she deftly sidestepped the incoming attack, the chain swinging harmlessly through the air where she once stood.

    The gangster blinked in surprise.

    Her hand whipped out, gripping the chain, and yanked with all her might after increasing her weight five-fold. The gangster yelped in shock as he was pulled off his feet and flung through the air like a ragdoll, crashing into a wall with a dull thud.

    Axion let go of the chain, straightening up. She released her hold on the gravity field, letting herself regain her normal weight.

    The remaining Gully Rats circled her cautiously, not keen on pressing their luck. A couple of them even retreated further away. She stood still, her stance firm, fists clenched, ready for more. "Your call. You can either leave, or I can beat the crap out of the rest of you."

    The gang leader scrambled to his feet, bloodied and bruised, his firearm discarded. "W-We''re not finished here!" he growled, gesturing to his remaining cronies. "C''mon, you cowards. We can take her!"

    A couple of the other Gully Rats, emboldened by his declaration, surged forward, one aiming a knife at her midsection while the other raised a baseball bat overhead, preparing to swing.

    Axion planted her feet firmly on the ground, her power enveloping the two aggressors. The knife''s trajectory altered, missing her completely. She grabbed the outstretched arm of the attacker and used their momentum to throw them to the ground. The bat swung in a wide arc, barely missing her head as she ducked under it.

    Another Gully Rat lunged and tackled her from the side, catching her off guard. They both hit the ground, rolling around in the dirt. The gangster ended up on top of her, pinning her arms to the ground. He cackled, his face inches from her own. "Gotcha!"

    She kneed him in the groin. Hard. The gangster''s eyes bulged, and he groaned in pain. She shoved him off and kicked him in the chest, sending him flying backward into a pile of garbage.

    Before she could stand, another gangster collided with her, pushing her back into the wall. She grunted in discomfort, the back of her helmet slamming against the bricks. The assailant smashed his fist into her visor, but the glass did not give. The force of the blow made her head rock back, however, causing a brief dizziness to settle over her.

    She headbutted the Gully Rat in the face, stunning him, then shoved him away, breaking his grip. She returned the favor by driving her knee into his gut, eliciting a satisfying grunt of pain. The gangster doubled over, and she finished him off with an elbow strike to the head. The unconscious body slumped to the ground in a heap.

    The Gully Rat with the knife charged again.

    Axion tried to dodge, but her reactions were a fraction too slow. The blade sliced across her arm, leaving a stinging gash through her suit. She hissed in pain. She should''ve been faster. Should''ve seen it coming. Stupid!

    The gangster continued to press his advantage, slashing wildly. Axion parried some blows but failed to block all of them. Several shallow gashes opened on her torso and shoulders. She took a few steps back, wincing from the pain.

    A bat slammed into her right arm. A chain whipped across her left shoulder. She gasped, her limbs numbing from the combined blows. The Gully Rat with the knife seized the opportunity, leaping at her, knife poised to plunge into her chest.

    Axion reached out with her power, altering the force of gravity around her. She forced the gangster to the ground with her mind, holding him in place as he struggled futilely. Her eyes flashed with power as she exerted more pressure, keeping him immobile. She snatched the knife from his hand and hurled it aside.

    Another gangster rushed at her, attempting to tackle her from behind. She turned, using her ability to make herself lighter, floating out of reach. She reached out, grabbing him by the collar as she floated over him, and flipped him onto the ground with a resounding thud, landing on top of his pinned companion.

    She let out a slight growl, her voice modulator giving her a more ominous tone. "Had enough?" she demanded, rising to her feet.

    The Gully Rat she''d initially thrown through the air shakily rose to his feet, bleeding from the nose. "Damn Supe...Fuck off!" He screamed as he ran at her, a short length of metal pipe in his hand.

    Axion let him charge, waiting until he was almost on top of her. She feinted to the right, dodging his wild swings, and then unleashed a devastating roundhouse kick directly to his temple. The blow knocked him cold.

    The other thug crawled to his knife and retrieved it. With a yell, he rushed towards her.

    Gritting her teeth, she lunged at the one with the knife and increased the gravity field around both of them. He dropped to the ground, struggling to move, the blade falling out of reach. She punched him in the head, knocking him out. Then she whirled to confront the remaining opponents.

    Can''t afford to be flashy. I''ll just do the same thing to the rest of them.

    She ran at the nearest thug, ignoring the ache in her body. She covered the distance quickly, her steps heavy. As the gangster brought his chain-whip up to swing at her again, she altered her gravity once more and leapt at him, feet first.

    The chain fell to the ground as she crashed into the Gully Rat, bowling him over. Her boots connected solidly with his stomach, and he wheezed, collapsing in a heap. She landed on one knee, crouching over the fallen gangster, then punched him in the face for good measure.

    Two thugs left.

    As she rose, she sensed movement coming from her right. Instinctively, she twisted around to avoid the bat''s trajectory, but its tip clipped the horn-like protrusion on her helmet, twisting her head to the side.

    The visor display flickered briefly. Stars danced across her eyes. Her legs wobbled. She swayed unsteadily, struggling to remain upright. Everything around her began spinning.

    Another impact to the back of her head, and she fell face-first onto the floor.

    The Gully Rat hammered his bat repeatedly on her back and helmet. "That''s for screwing with the Gully Rats, you dumb bitch!" he screeched angrily.

    Pain flared through her body. She curled up, arms covering her head instinctively, desperately trying to shield herself from the barrage. She could hear her own breathing echoing inside the helmet as she inhaled and exhaled deeply.

    Have to focus! Move! Fight back!

    As the gangster continued to smash her with his bat, she focused on her power, adjusting her gravity around them.

    The thug fell on his hands and knees, unable to stand. "What the..."

    Axion stood shakily, wobbling slightly on her feet. The gangster writhed and squirmed on the ground, still trying to push himself to a standing position. She staggered forward and kicked him in the face, putting him out cold.

    All that was left was the leader.

    Shots rang out, the noise reverberating throughout the alleyway. She flinched as bullets whizzed past her head. A stray one bounced off her thigh, tearing through fabric and skin alike. Warm blood trickled down her leg.

    She adjusted her gravity field to deflect the projectiles. The next volley ricocheted into the nearby brick walls, sending chips and splinters scattering about. The gang leader fired one last time before emptying the magazine. He cursed under his breath, tossing the now useless firearm to the ground before darting out of the alley, not waiting for his buddies.

    Axion wanted to chase after him, but she was too exhausted. Her strength drained from her body as her adrenaline rush subsided. She sat back heavily on the ground, panting. Her whole body ached, and she could feel her wounds stinging.

    She looked around to see if the teenager had made it out okay. He was gone.

    Guess he got away. Good.

    Slowly, she dragged herself over to a nearby wall and leaned against it. Her head throbbed from the beating, and the gash on her arm and leg burned.

    She looked over at the unconcious gangsters, lying strewn about the alley. They wouldn''t stay knocked out forever. If she stayed here, the moment they woke up, they''d swarm her. She needed to leave before that happened.

    There were no cops out here anyway, and no jail to take these goons to.

    Well...there was one place, but it was a lost cause to bring them there.

    Sighing, she gingerly pushed herself to her feet, grunting at the effort. She stumbled down the alley, limping as she went, until she came to a main thoroughfare. Then she started walking towards the only place that made sense at a time like this.

    The Aether Clinic.

 Chapter 15: Relic of the Past

    The slums had a way of swallowing things whole: dreams, hopes, and sometimes entire buildings. The old police station was one such relic, a testament to a bygone era when law and order meant something, back when these slums were part of a thriving city that paved the way for the metropolis that stood today.

    Now the building stood as a rusted reminder, slowly decaying into the earth. A hollow husk whose halls and chambers once echoed with purpose and justice. The barred windows and doors no longer provided security or safety to anyone. No one was going to come to their rescue here. Not anymore.

    Edith approached the entrance, her heels clicking against the cracked pavement. Each step felt like a commitment, a point of no return. She hesitated at the entrance, her fingers brushing the cold metal of the door handle.

    This is it. The man inside could be the key to everything.

    Taking a deep breath, she pushed the door open and stepped into the dimly lit interior.

    Inside, the air smelled of old paper and dust, a scent that took Edith back to her days in the metropolis, in her pristine lab. But this was no lab. Old cobwebs hung from the ceiling, and dirt and debris littered the floor. The windows were cracked and filthy, letting in only tiny shafts of light through the grime. The paint on the walls peeled and chipped. The whole place reminded her of an abandoned tomb.

    Her eyes adjusted to the dimness, taking in the faded wanted posters and photographs that adorned the walls, their faces staring back at her. Names and dates of arrests and sentences were scrawled beneath each, written in barely legible script. Many of the entries were crossed out.

    A thin layer of dust coated everything in sight. Even the few pieces of furniture that remained seemed untouched, collecting layers upon layers of dirt. The only sign of life was the trail of fresh footprints leading deeper into the building.

    Edith followed the footprints to a stairwell, ascending carefully to the second floor. The smell of musty air intensified, and she wrinkled her nose at the unpleasant odor. At the top of the stairs, she found a single wooden door, slightly ajar. Beyond it lay a large room filled with various desks, chairs, cabinets, and filing cabinets. The windows were boarded shut, blocking most of the natural light from entering. It was impossible to tell whether this had once been an office or a storage area.

    She turned on her flashlight, shining it around the space. As expected, more boxes, files, and paperwork lined the shelves along the walls. This place had probably served as some kind of records room at one point, though what records those might have been, she couldn''t guess.

    Motes of dust floated lazily in the air as the light moved. On one wall was a map of the city, dotted with red marks and scribbles. There were circles and lines drawn everywhere, connecting different locations to each other. Some places were circled multiple times. Other parts of the city were left blank entirely. None of the writing made any sense to her. Edith''s gaze traveled over the markings, but she couldn''t piece together what they might mean.

    She was so engrossed in studying the map that she almost forgot why she''d come. With a start, she snapped her attention away and focused on searching for the man she''d come to find.

    She slowly paced the length of the room, her footsteps echoing loudly in the silence. She listened intently, trying to pick out the sounds of anyone else moving about. There was nothing, only her breathing. The building creaked occasionally, but she suspected those noises came from the wind blowing outside.

    No, she was definitely not alone here.

    She spotted another set of footprints leading to an open doorway. She crept forward cautiously, stopping at the threshold. A hallway stretched ahead, ending at a T-shaped intersection. It was dark, except for the beam of her flashlight and the faint glow on one side of the intersection.

    Edith walked to the edge of the corridor, peering into the gloom beyond. She squinted, straining her eyes, but she could make out little detail. The door at the end of the passage lay wide open. Light spilled out from within, illuminating a section of the floor. Shadows moved around inside the room, but she couldn''t tell what they belonged to. Whoever it was didn''t seem aware of her presence. Yet.

    Gulping, she forced herself to walk down the hall, her steps slow and hesitant. She clicked her flashlight off as she approached the door. She could hear someone whistling a soft tune inside the room. It sounded vaguely familiar, but she couldn''t quite place it.

    When she reached the doorway, she stopped. The shadows danced about on the wall, and the whistling ceased.

    Alright, now or never. Hope whoever is in there is the one I''m looking for.

    Edith stepped across the threshold.

    <hr>

    Seated behind a worn-out desk at the far end of the room was a man who seemed as much a part of the station as the walls themselves. His hair was unkempt, and his bearded face bore the telltale signs of a hard life, with scars and wrinkles etched deep into his skin. A small scar split the corner of his mouth, and his eyes glowed eerily in the dim lighting.

    He was dressed in a long, dark trench coat over a plain grey shirt, and a battered cowboy hat, the brim pulled low over his face. His disheveled appearance gave him the air of a vagrant or drunkard, yet Edith sensed there was far more to this man than met the eye. He had an aura about him¡ªthe same sense of danger she''d felt upon entering the abandoned police station.

    In his hands was a large revolver, which he was meticulously cleaning with a rag. The weapon gleamed in the flickering candlelight, and Edith felt a chill run down her spine at the sight.

    As she entered the room, he didn''t seem to acknowledge her presence, continuing with his work in silence.

    Edith cleared her throat, trying to mask her nervousness. "I''ve heard stories about you, Virgil Maddox. Or do you still prefer to go by our old moniker¡ªBackfire"

    Without looking up, he responded, his voice a gravelly drawl, "Stories tend to exaggerate."

    "Perhaps, but there''s something to be said about a man who once tried to keep peace in these streets." She took a tentative step closer. "I''m sure you recall those days, if your reputation is accurate."

    Virgil finally glanced in her direction, the glow in his eyes seemingly penetrating her soul. "Those days are over," he muttered, turning his attention back to his revolver. "And you should get lost."

    "Why''s that?" She challenged.

    "This isn''t a place for good folks to wander aimlessly. Especially a beautiful young lady such as yourself." He chuckled dryly. "The gangs around here, they''ll eat you alive and spit out the bones."

    She remained undeterred and pressed on. "I''d hardly consider myself helpless, Mr. Maddox. And I''ve been living in the slums for over a year now. I know how things work. Why do you think I sought you out?"

    Virgil paused his work and set his revolver down, resting his elbows on the table. "What exactly is your business?" His tone held a hint of curiosity, and she latched onto the opportunity to draw him further into conversation.

    She took a deep breath, steeling herself. "I need your help."

    He leaned back in his chair, studying her with an intensity that made her skin prickle. "A lot of folks do," he replied, his tone dripping with skepticism.

    She stepped closer, trying to assert some semblance of control over the situation. "I''ve been working on a project, one that could change the fate of the slums. But I need someone with your... expertise."

    Virgil scoffed, shaking his head. "Sorry, girlie. That''s not my problem. Whatever you''re planning, I ain''t interested." He picked his gun back up and resumed cleaning.

    "You haven''t even heard what I want from you," Edith insisted.

    She didn''t come this far to be brushed aside by this arrogant gunslinger who hid in a dilapidated police station. "How do you know you don''t want to get involved if you don''t even have any clue what''s going on?"

    "Trust me, I''ve seen this all before." He grumbled as he continued polishing the barrel. After a brief pause, his expression hardened. "If you''ve come to try and recruit me, you''re wasting both our time."

    "No, that''s not it. I mean, I do want your help, but not for what you''re probably thinking," she quickly clarified.

    Virgil shrugged indifferently. "Fine. Tell me, what exactly is so important that you''d track me down to this run-down dump?"

    "I''ve come on behalf of someone¡ªA girl. She needs training, guidance," Edith explained, trying not to sound desperate.

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    Virgil scoffed, shaking his head. "Ain''t my problem, lady."

    Edith frowned, her frustration rising. "But you could help her, and with the right training, she could become someone to rely on. Someone who could make a difference in the slums."

    He gave her a derisive glance as he stopped cleaning his gun, setting the revolver back down on the table with a thud. "And what makes you think I''d waste my time with some snot-nosed kid?"

    "Because she''s special," Edith pressed on, her voice firm. "She''s the first metahuman born in the slums."

    That seemed to have grabbed his attention. For the first time since their conversation began, Virgil appeared intrigued. "Is that so?"

    Edith nodded vigorously.

    Technically, she didn''t lie. Fii was the first metahuman who was born in the slums, she just wasn''t born as one but instead made into one.

    "It''s true," Edith reassured him. "I found her by happenstance. Right now, she''s a diamond in the rough. She needs someone qualified to train her in combat. Isn''t that what you used to do? Train people to fight criminals?"

    Virgil chuckled grimly. "Train people to fight. Hah. Yeah, sure." He lowered his head, gazing at the revolver resting in front of him. "Haven''t done anything like that in years. Those days are long gone."

    "Then consider this an opportunity to return to what you do best. Help us. Please." Edith pleaded, sensing she may be making progress. She just needed a bit more leverage. Something to convince him.

    Virgil shook his head, picking his gun back up and inspecting it closely. "Forget it. I''m not interested. Don''t want any part in whatever you''re up to."

    He sounded determined, but his tone betrayed a hint of something else. Was it regret? Regret that he hadn''t gotten out of his rut for a while.

    Maybe there was still a chance to convince him.

    "Wait," Edith interjected before Virgil could resume cleaning his firearm. "If not for yourself, will you at least consider helping us for the sake of the slums? You can''t tell me you''ve forgotten what you tried to do here a decade ago. Or how that ended?" She took a gamble and hoped her intuition was correct.

    At the mention of the word ''end'', Virgil flinched. The hand holding his revolver trembled slightly, and he quickly set the weapon back down. He kept his gaze fixed on the ground, refusing to meet her eyes.

    Edith continued, sensing a possible opening. "Look, I get why you''re not eager to get back out there. What you did, trying to create a police force in the slums, it was ambitious. Stupid, some might even say. But the fact you tried speaks volumes. You cared. That''s more than most people can claim to have ever done."

    Virgil didn''t respond, but the tension in his posture relaxed somewhat.

    She continued, "Maybe this isn''t the exact role you envisioned for yourself, but it''s something. Think of how many lives you''d be able to change. This is your chance at redemption. A chance to make a difference where you failed last time." She paused, letting her words sink in.

    Finally, Virgil looked back up at her, eyes narrowed.

    "I don''t need redemption," he retorted, his tone harsh. "And I don''t owe the slums anything."

    Edith sighed, her hopes faltering. She''d misjudged him. Virgil was still too caught up in his own guilt and self-pity to care about the greater good. If she was going to persuade him, she would need to approach this differently.

    She bowed her head slightly. "You''re right. You don''t owe them anything." She took a deep breath. "But if not for the slums, then do it for yourself. Let this be your legacy."

    Virgil frowned, his brow furrowing. "What''re you talking about?"

    "I''ll be blunt. I have connections. I can get you back into the metropolis. Clean slate. You can restart your life," Edith offered.

    A look of disbelief flashed across Virgil''s face, followed by confusion, and finally, curiosity. "How do I know you''re telling the truth?"

    "I can prove it." She rummaged through her purse and held up a data pad. "Check my credentials, search the net. Dr. Edith Weiss. I''ve got the means to make that happen."

    He eyed her suspiciously. "That''s not exactly reassuring. If you''re so well-connected, then why are you here in the slums?"

    Edith clenched her jaw. She should''ve known he''d ask. Of course he''d be skeptical.

    She exhaled deeply, weighing her options. "Fine. I''ll be honest. I got exiled. Just like you, I got banished for stepping on too many toes." She clenched her fists. "My research was deemed too dangerous, and I was framed for some serious crimes. We have a lot more in common than you think."

    Virgil raised an eyebrow, seemingly contemplating her words. She hoped that she''d finally said something that resonated with him. He seemed like the type that would understand another outcast.

    After a long silence, he finally spoke. "Let''s pretend, for a moment, that you''re telling the truth." He waved his hand dismissively. "Why bother offering me a new start? Why not find some other washed-up nobody? I''m sure there are others out there who could teach her the ropes of killing people. Why come to me specifically?"

    "Because I want her to be a hero, not a villain," Edith pressed. "Fii is unique. She could be the catalyst for real change. With the proper training, she could become a hero to the slums, a symbol for those trapped here. All we need is an experienced mentor to guide her." She put emphasis on the word "experienced" hoping to convey the urgency of the situation.

    Virgil sighed, running his fingers through his brown hair. He reached for his bottle of whiskey sitting atop the desk, taking a swig. After setting the liquor back down, he glanced over at Edith, eyeing her closely. "Suppose I agree to help you, hypothetically. How long are you talking about here?"

    "It depends. Six months to a year, minimum. If you accept, I''d want you to relocate to my facility, the Aether Clinic. We''ll work there in secret and give her adequate training without being disturbed. This wouldn''t be easy, but you''d be compensated for your trouble. I promise you that."

    She pulled a roll of ChitCreds out of her bag, placing the thick stack on his desk. "Consider this an advance. Take the time to decide and let me know later."

    Virgil stared at the money, a flicker of temptation visible in his eyes. But his expression shifted, and he frowned. "So, what about you, Doctor? What''s your endgame? Power? Recognition? Redemption?"

    Edith paused, taken aback. She hadn''t considered him asking her that question. What reason would convince him? She already revealed some of her personal information. Could she trust him? Did she have a choice?

    Then she realized the irony of the situation. Here she was, trying to convince him to take a leap of faith, yet she didn''t trust him enough to answer honestly.

    She rubbed the back of her neck, exhaling wearily. "That''s right. I''m doing it for recognition. She''s also going to be my ticket back into the metropolis. You''re not the only one with a chip on their shoulder. I''m doing this for myself too."

    "Well, aren''t we the selfish bunch," Virgil quipped dryly, giving her a wry smile. He tapped his finger against his chin thoughtfully, leaning back in his chair.

    He then rummaged through his coat pocket and pulled out a silver coin, flipping the object between his thumb and index finger. Without saying a word, he flipped the coin up into the air, and Edith watched as it spun, turning end over end before landing in the palm of his hand.

    Virgil slapped the coin against his wrist, concealing it with his other hand, before extending his arm toward Edith.

    She stared at him, perplexed. "What is this?"

    "Call it."

    "Are you joking?"

    "Humor me, Doc. Call it," he urged, his voice calm.

    Edith hesitated before making her selection. "Uh... tails."

    He drew his hand away, revealing the result. Sure enough, a miniature pair of wings adorned the coin''s surface.

    Virgil pocketed the coin, grinning faintly. "Looks like luck''s on your side. Today, at least. Alright, I''ll play ball, doc." He snatched the stacks of ChitCreds off his desk, shoving the bills into his coat pockets. "When do we start?"

    The sudden shift in attitude caught Edith by surprise, and she blinked several times, unsure of how to process this unexpected development. She''d assumed it would take more persuading. Either she had a knack for convincing people, or he was drunk. Maybe he really was a lonely man, desperate for companionship. Whatever the case, she''d succeeded.

    "Um, that''s... sooner than expected." She mumbled. "Do you mean you''re seriously considering the offer?"

    Virgil grabbed his revolver and whiskey bottle off the desk, standing up. He placed his cowboy hat on his head and adjusted the brim. Then he turned to face her. "Yeah. Like I said, we can talk details later. First, let''s meet your protege." He tilted his head curiously, arching a brow. "What did you say her name was again?"

    "Fii," she answered.

    "Weird name," Virgil muttered, giving her a curious glance. "Fine, take me to her."

    Edith suppressed a smirk, feeling elated. "Of course. Follow me."

    <hr>

    The pair headed downstairs to the lobby, neither saying a word.

    The silence was awkward, and Edith struggled to maintain her composure. She''d convinced Virgil to join them, but she still had to convince Fii to accept his training. And what if Fii rejected their proposal? That would throw everything into chaos. He was a gamble.

    Hopefully, it wasn''t a bad one.

    Just as Edith was about to ask him another question, a sudden crash echoed through the room, cutting her off. The heavy wooden door of the station was kicked open, splintering wood and dust flying into the dimly lit room.

    In the doorway stood a group of armed gang members, clad in matching leather jackets bearing a skull with horns and knife motif¡ªReaper Posse.

    Oh great.

    The leader of the gang, a tall, broad-shouldered man with a bushy beard and a ponytail, strode confidently into the lobby, flanked on either side by his lackeys. He carried a spiked baseball bat loosely in one hand, twirling it absentmindedly as he surveyed his surroundings. Behind him, his gang fanned out, spreading throughout the lobby. The majority of the Posse were armed with pipe pistols, but a few brandished knives and switchblades.

    "Well, what do we have here?" The gang leader sneered, flashing his crooked teeth. "Looks like you''re right, Carl. The hot doctor from that clinic really did come to our part o'' town." His beady eyes gleamed with menace as he leered at Edith, a sickening smile stretching across his face.

    The gang member called Carl snickered, giving her a lecherous stare. "Yep, ain''t no mistaking those curves."

    The other thugs leered at Edith. "Looks like we''re gonna have some fun tonight, boys."

    Edith shuddered, clenching her hands into tight fists.

    They''d been a constant thorn in her side ever since she arrived in the slums, harassing her relentlessly, demanding she submit to them, or give them access to her clinic. They were opportunists, and scum. She loathed them all.

    As the gang members stepped further into the room, their eyes adjusting to the dim light, they seemed to finally notice Virgil.

    He remained motionless a few steps behind her, seemingly unfazed by the intrusion. But Edith noticed the subtle shift in his posture, the way his hand moved ever so slightly towards the revolver at his side.

    The gang leader sneered, his eyes flicking between Edith and Virgil. "Who''s this? Your bodyguard? He don''t look like much."

    Virgil set the whiskey bottle in his hand gently on the counter, taking a casual step forward in front of her, his movements smooth and deliberate.

    "Something like that," he remarked casually, tilting his head toward the thug. "Would you kindly mind removing yourselves from my property? We have business to attend to."

 Chapter 16: Backfire

    <hr>

    The thugs exchanged confused glances, taken aback by the stranger''s nonchalant demeanor. Finally, the gang leader stepped forward, gesturing to the pistol on Virgil''s hip.

    "Oi, mister. You wanna die today, eh? You''re outnumbered, dipshit. This ain''t the metropolis. The city rules don''t apply here, but you know what does? Ours. Tune your antenna, don''t go treading on cracked glass. Either give us the doc or get out of the way. Stitch before the tear, you hear?"

    Edith felt a bead of sweat trickle down her face.

    This was not good.

    The thugs weren''t the brightest, but they had the numbers. If Virgil started shooting, she wouldn''t be fast enough to evade bullets. Her eyes darted around the room to find the closest spot to dive for cover.

    To her astonishment, Virgil remained undaunted. He regarded the Reaper Posse thugs with a bored expression. "Interesting speech. Though, I''ve heard better from toddlers with diapers full of shit."

    The gang leader''s face twisted with fury. He opened his mouth to speak, but without warning, Virgil snapped his revolver out of its holster and fired a single shot at the thug''s head.

    The deafening blast echoed throughout the room. The bullet tore through the leader''s mouth, blowing out the back of his head. He crumpled to the ground in a lifeless heap. Blood and chunks of flesh sprayed across the floor.

    The remaining gangsters'' eyes widened with horror as they froze, momentarily paralyzed.

    As Edith dove behind the reception desk for shelter, the gangsters scrambled to draw their weapons, cursing and shouting.

    Shots rang out as the Reaper Posse fired wildly, bullets striking the walls and floor around her. Several rounds pierced the countertop above her, sending fragments of splintered wood flying in all directions.

    She covered her ears, cowering on the floor. There was nothing she could do now. Her fate rested in Virgil''s hands.

    Edith tried peeking through the gaps in the wooden boards, catching a glimpse of him in the heat of combat.

    As bullets whizzed past him, Virgil calmly strode across the room, his coat flapping behind him like a cape. Without flinching, he fired his revolver again, hitting a thug in the chest. The gangster toppled over, dead.

    Another shot, and another Reaper Posse member fell.

    Bullets ripped through the air, with one striking Virgil''s worn hat. It flew off, but he grabbed it mid-air and placed it back atop his head with one fluid motion, not breaking stride as he weaved around a wall for cover.

    One thug rolled across the floor, trying to get a clear angle on Virgil from a different cover position. The gangster poked his pipe rifle around the corner and fired wildly, trying to pin Virgil down. The bullets struck the opposite side of the wall, forcing Virgil to duck his head to avoid being hit.

    But as the thug got back into cover to reload, Virgil rose to his feet. His eyes shimmered with a faint blue light. "No hiding from me. You''re mine," he muttered.

    With a quick flourish, Virgil cocked his revolver and fired.

    A trail of ethereal light streaked through the air, piercing through the wall without leaving a mark. A splatter of blood erupted from the other side, followed by a thud.

    Edith stared, wide-eyed.

    She had read his dossier when researching him earlier, but seeing his powers in action left her awestruck. Ethereal Arsenal¡ªthe ability to manipulate etheric particles, allowing him to summon unique bullets with diverse effects. His revolver held a seemingly endless variety of ammo. It was an incredibly rare metahuman ability that made him famous in the metropolis as a vigilante.

    Her mind couldn''t wrap itself around how unscientific his power was, yet the proof was right before her eyes.

    Gunshots boomed from the other side of the wall, and the area around Edith shook as bullets continued striking the counter, raining fragments of debris upon her. She ducked her head, covering it with her arms as bits of wood pelted her from above.

    She hazarded another peek, her heart racing as she waited anxiously for the fighting to end.

    Virgil turned his head, his gaze locking onto his next target. He aimed his revolver at the gangster and fired. An ethereal bullet blazed forth, whistling through the air. But instead of striking the thug, the bullet veered away at a sharp angle, looping around a corner before slamming into the back of another gangster. The unfortunate victim let out a surprised cry as he collapsed to the floor, a smoking hole in his back. The smell of burnt flesh filled the air, causing Edith''s nostrils to wrinkle in disgust.

    Meanwhile, the thug who''d been Virgil''s intended target had moved from his previous spot. Now pinned behind a pillar, the gangster peeked out from the side and fired blindly in Virgil''s general direction.

    The errant bullets missed, chipping pieces off the wooden floorboards. A few shots grazed the edge of the counter, spraying debris everywhere, forcing Edith to flatten herself against the ground to avoid being struck. She pressed her palms against her ears, wincing as the barrage continued.

    Virgil emerged from his cover and fired a volley of shots, each round impacting one of the thug''s bullets, deflecting them away harmlessly. The thug panicked and ran for cover, but Virgil fired one more ethereal bullet, which phased through the wall and struck him in the back. The gangster fell, gasping for air as blood pooled around his body.

    Two gang members tried to flank him on the left, brandishing their pipes and machetes. One charged at him, swinging his machete wildly, while the other waited for an opening to strike.

    Virgil pivoted to the side, avoiding the strike with ease. With his free hand, he pulled out a bowie knife from his belt and parried another blow. A flurry of sparks burst forth as metal clashed against metal.

    He aimed his revolver at the thug''s face, causing the gangster to recoil. But instead of shooting, Virgil plunged the knife into the thug''s throat.

    As the other assailant raised his steel pipe high overhead, Virgil pulled out the knife, and with a flick of his wrist, cleanly slit the other man''s throat.

    Both bodies collapsed to the ground, leaving only two more of the Reaper Posse members left standing. One panicked, firing blindly over the top of the cabinet he hid behind. Bullets ricocheted through the lobby, chipping away at the ceiling. Dust and plaster rained down around Edith''s head.

    A sharp pain flared from her thigh, and she cried out, clutching at her leg. A bullet had grazed her, drawing blood.

    Augh! Fuck, that''s gonna leave a mark.

    Virgil glanced in her direction, his eyes narrowing. The shimmering blue aura in his eyes intensified, and he fired another ethereal bullet that pierced through the corner wall the shooter hid behind.

    More blood spurted into the air, followed by the sound of a body hitting the ground.

    The last thug, trapped between Virgil and the main entrance, desperately looked from side to side, searching for a way out. He fired another shot at Virgil that wildly missed its mark, and went to fire again. But nothing happened.

    A low click echoed through the room, followed by a curse from the gangster. He fumbled with the gun, trying to figure out the problem.

    Virgil calmly walked forward while holstering his revolver, ignoring the thug''s cries of protest.

    As the thug went for a punch, Virgil swatted his arm away, then pinned him to the wall with his shoulder while he wrestled the thug''s pistol out of his grasp.

    With practiced ease, he began disassembling the weapon, ignoring the thug''s attempts to break free.

    A punch managed to land solidly on Virgil''s gut, but he didn''t budge, still working on the gun.

    "Stay put. I''m fixing it," Virgil grunted, reassembling the pistol. With a flick of the wrist, he ejected the magazine and slammed a fresh one in place before tossing the pistol back to the thug, who caught it clumsily.

    "There. Try again."

    The gangster stared at it for a moment before pointing it at Virgil''s face.

    Edith blinked, and a shot rang out. She flinched, expecting Virgil''s lifeless body to fall to the ground. But when she opened her eyes, Virgil stood unharmed. The thug lay dead at his feet, a gaping hole in his head.

    Virgil twirled his revolver theatrically before returning it to its holster. Then he stooped to pick up the various pistols and scattered about the floor, inspecting each one. He tossed a few to the side in a pile, while others he slid into his belt or coat.

    She exhaled a sigh of relief, clutching at her chest. She couldn''t believe what had just happened. It felt like she''d just watched a scene out of an action movie.

    She watched Virgil rifle through the thugs'' pockets, searching for loose cash or valuables. He didn''t appear fazed by the violence at all. He wore an expression of mild annoyance, as if this was nothing more than a minor inconvenience to him.

    He then walked over the the other bodies and started looting them as well.

    Edith pushed herself up from the floor, wincing at the throbbing pain in her leg. Blood soaked through the torn fabric of her pants, but it didn''t look too serious. She''d live. She limped toward the exit, wanting to put as much distance as she could between her and the grisly scene.

    "Not so fast, Doc," Virgil called after her, stashing a few items in his trenchcoat. "I''ll check if the coast is clear outside. Stay put and wait for a few minutes."

    Edith gritted her teeth, frustration rising within her.

    "Seriously?" she huffed, limping over to him. "I have an injury here, and you want me to wait for your approval to leave?"

    Virgil smirked, tipping his hat at her. "These streets ain''t safe, darlin''. You should know that by now. But don''t worry, the nurse is on the way."

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    Without waiting for a response, he pushed past her, leaving Edith alone in the ruined lobby. She slumped against a wall, closing her eyes.

    Things just had to end up with a shootout. For fuck''s sake!

    Virgil returned a few minutes later and walked over to the nearest corpse. He crouched beside the body and started dragging it through the front door.

    "What are you doing?" Edith asked, aghast.

    "Cleaning up the mess, obviously." He grabbed a second body and pulled it outside. "It''ll be easier for the Pallbearers to dispose of them this way. Besides, I don''t want them stinking up the place more than it already does."

    He came back inside and retrieved the remaining six corpses, making multiple trips. By the time he finished, the ground outside was littered with bodies, the Reaper Posse emblem on the backs of the jackets emblazoned in blood.

    Edith turned away from the grotesque sight, and Virgil returned to the building to collect his belongings. She remained where she was, struggling to comprehend the magnitude of what had transpired. Virgil had killed eight men without breaking a sweat. Not even a single scratch or bruise. Just a stray bullet to his hat, which he caught.

    Virgil carried his bag and whiskey bottle outside, his revolver in its holster. "Come on, let''s not keep her waiting." He gestured to Edith to follow as he whistled a cheerful tune, kicking a gang member''s head to the side.

    Edith bit her lip, pushing down the urge to tell him off for treating this like a casual stroll.

    She winced as she trudged along, hobbling on her injured leg. She half expected Virgil to be a gentleman and offer her his shoulder to lean on, or carry her, but he kept a few paces ahead, leading the way.

    "Didn''t you say a nurse was on the way?" Edith asked, trying to hide her irritation.

    "Oh, that? Just bluffing, sorry. Besides, we''re supposed to head to your clinic, remember? I''m sure you have supplies to tend to that wound."

    Edith frowned, suppressing the desire to slap the smug grin off his face. She sighed and trailed behind him, trying to keep pace.

    Damn bullets. Damn gangs. Damn slums!

    <hr>

    Over the past few weeks, Virgil watched Fii train with Edith at the old abandoned warehouse. He stayed in the shadows, watching and observing.

    As the days went by, he was amazed at her progress. She was a natural, picking up skills quickly. He''d also noted her stubborn nature; she never backed down from a challenge, even when the task was difficult. She kept at it, pushing through her discomfort and exhaustion. She was resilient, tenacious.

    Virgil frowned.

    He knew she wasn''t ready for what lay ahead. He''d seen her slip and trip during the agility exercises, and he''d witnessed her frustration when she failed to deflect the bullets in time. He''d also seen Edith''s disappointment when Fii had failed to maintain her gravitational fields. And yet, in those failures, he saw potential. A willingness to improve and a refusal to give up. Those were traits that couldn''t be taught. Only time and experience would hone them.

    Diamond in the rough, indeed. She was definitely showing a lot of promise, but there was still a long way to go.

    His eyes followed Fii as she went through the obstacle course again, noting how she used her powers to make the movements easier. She wasn''t consciously aware of how she''d adjusted her abilities, but it was evident to him. It was an intuitive adaptation.

    "Still here, are you?" Edith''s voice called out to him as she walked into the dark corner he''d taken refuge in.

    She studied him with an inquisitive gaze.

    Virgil crossed his arms over his chest, leaning against the wall. "What of it?" he asked, his tone gruff.

    Edith arched a brow. "Just curious. Thought you would have already left after the first couple of hours. Why stick around so long?"

    Virgil glanced at Fii. She was approaching the end of the obstacle course, her movements more fluid than the previous attempts. "She''s improving," he admitted grudgingly. "At first, I thought you were wasting my time, but... she''s doing well."

    "For someone with no formal training, you mean?" Edith offered, a wry smile on her face. "Like I said, she has potential."

    "She does," he conceded, pushing himself off the wall. "But she''s not ready. Growing up in the slums may have honed her instincts, but they won''t help her when it comes to combat. It''s one thing to dodge and weave. It''s another to be able to predict your opponent''s movements and act accordingly. She''s tough, but she needs to learn how to use her powers more effectively. Right now, they''re more of a crutch than a tool."

    "Oh, I agree," Edith replied, nodding. "She''s got a long way to go, but I trust that she''ll get there. Like I said, she''s a diamond in the rough."

    He grunted, shoving his hands in his pockets as he turned to leave. "We''ll see," he murmured, stepping out into the light. "We''ll see."

    <hr>

    Virgil watched as Fii, in her superhero get-up rushed into the building, heading inside to help the people trapped within. The market had mostly emptied, leaving behind a smattering of shell-shocked vendors and shoppers. Virgil stood near the far end of the market, near a narrow alleyway.

    His eyes narrowed. "Of course you''d charge in without a second thought."

    He walked calmly and purposefully, navigating through the chaotic scene. Debris was scattered everywhere, and a thin layer of dust covered everything in a dull gray film. A few people noticed Virgil as he made his way through the area, but he paid them no mind.

    "You''re a reckless fool, and that''s a damn problem," Virgil muttered to himself as he stalked toward the collapsing building. "But, dammit, you''ve got heart. You''re not half bad for someone with no experience."

    As he approached the ruined building, it finally collapsed in on itself, sending a shower of rubble and dust flying outwards. The people around him screamed and fled, but Virgil remained unmoving, his gaze fixated on the building. He knew she had gone in there, but whether she''d come out alive...

    Fii emerged carrying a woman in her arms, and Virgil''s eyes widened with surprise. A pile of rubble had fallen over her, but she must have somehow used her power to avoid getting crushed while also shielding the woman from the brunt of the impact.

    "Well, I''ll be damned..." Virgil muttered, shaking his head.

    The people around them rushed over to help her. She seemed disoriented and in pain, but she got back to her feet and carried the injured woman out of the wreckage, laying her gently on the ground. Then, after surveying the damage, she set about helping as many people as she could, lifting heavy debris, and aiding the wounded.

    The crowd seemed to gravitate towards her, eager to receive assistance.

    She''d shown incredible resourcefulness, ingenuity, and courage in her rescue, but her recklessness in leaping into a dangerous situation without any backup or proper training irritated him.

    "I have to admit, you''ve got some grit to you." A ghost of a smile crept onto his lips. "Alright, kid, you''ve shown that you''ve got the heart for the job. Now, we have to work on the head. Your recklessness will only get you so far."

    Virgil rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his eyes following Fii''s movements as she continued helping others. "All things considered, she''s not half bad." He snorted, but there was no malice in his voice. "Though, she needs to be better. Much better."

    "Why are you talking to yourself, mister?"

    The question snapped him out of his musings. A kid was standing right beside him, watching him intently. She tilted her head, frowning. "Are you okay, mister?"

    "Huh? Er..." Virgil blinked, unsure how to respond. "Yeah. I''m alright. Fine, actually."

    The kid seemed satisfied with his answer. "Okay, good! Don''t wanna go crazy or anything. Bye, mister!" She waved before scampering away, disappearing into the crowd.

    Virgil sighed, grabbing his flask. He unscrewed the lid and took a long swig from it. His flask was empty. "Dammit."

    <hr>

    The muffled cry of the Gully Rat member who had fled from the scene was cut short as Virgil plunged his knife through the captive''s windpipe. Blood spurted onto the dirt beneath them, forming a thick, crimson pool that stained the soil. Virgil let the lifeless body crumple to the ground in a heap.

    "Pathetic." He wiped his knife on the sleeve of the corpse, cleaning off the excess blood. Then he flicked his wrist, sheathing the blade back into its hidden sheath on his hip. "Scum like you don''t deserve mercy." He knelt and rummaged through the pockets of the fallen gangster. The man carried only a few Tinks and a half-empty packet of cigarettes.

    Virgil dragged the body back to the alley where the rest of the Gully Rats lay unconscious on the ground. He placed it beside the others, careful to keep the fresh wound hidden.

    He gazed down at the scene in front of him. The members of the Gully Rat gang lay scattered among the piles of trash and debris. Their injuries varied in severity. Some had broken bones. Others suffered severe internal damage. All had sustained blunt force trauma to their heads and faces. None would ever walk away from this unscathed.

    Fii really did a number on them, though she didn''t realize just how much. These guys may have been lowlife punks, but they put up a good fight. Not bad. But she didn''t finish the job.

    He didn''t know what sort of ideology Edith had been drumming into the girl''s head about superheroes and "fighting for the people" and such, but it was obvious that Fii couldn''t kill. The kid was too soft. She wasn''t suited to a life of vigilantism.

    But she also didn''t know how to assess the damage she''d inflicted, other than seeing them knocked out cold. Which, to be fair, wasn''t an inaccurate assessment. But he could already tell that a few of them were better off dead. A few quick stabs, and he''d be saving them from a lifetime of being a cripple. The poor bastards would never amount to anything worthwhile in the slums, anyway.

    Better to just end them now.

    That''s what he should have done from the start a decade ago, when he decided to try and establish a police force here in the slums. His naivete back then, thinking he could change this place, blinded him from realizing that you couldn''t make lawmen from people born and raised in places like this. It was never going to work, not without some extreme measures.

    The slums bred criminals. It bred monsters. There was no room for the weak, the helpless, the downtrodden. If they weren''t strong enough to protect themselves, they were destined to be preyed upon. No amount of moralizing or preaching would ever change that. The only language these animals understood was violence. And sometimes, you had to be cruel to be kind.

    Virgil drew his knife once more. He walked over to the nearest unconscious thug, placing the blade against his neck. One quick motion, and he''d be rid of at least one more gang member who would otherwise terrorize the neighborhood. There were others, too, that had suffered only minor injuries. With a few stabs here and there, he could easily finish all of them off without too much trouble. It was almost like picking flowers in the garden. Simple, clean, and efficient.

    The problem, of course, would be the aftermath. Sure, killing these goons might make things easier in the short term, but in the long term, there would be repercussions. They had families, friends, connections. Revenge killings were commonplace in the slums. It was the nature of the beast. Kill a gang member, and there would be hell to pay.

    But they could only assume that these vermin were killed by another gang. They couldn''t possibly imagine a random civilian taking them out, but they could sure as hell imagine a masked Super going around offing their comrades. It wouldn''t matter that Fii had intervened on behalf of the local citizenry; all that mattered was that a Super had attacked the Gully Rats, and in their minds, the only Super in the area was Axion.

    Which meant she''d be the target for their wrath. And they''d be right, if only partially.

    So, should he just let these Gully Rats live?

    No.

    Turf wars were nothing new in the slums. It was easy enough to shift the blame to another gang and point them in the right direction. He had collected enough insignias and weaponry from all sorts of gangs over the years, and he knew exactly how to set them at each other''s throats. This time would be no different.

    Virgil made his choice, and he raised the knife above the thug''s throat. His grip tightened. "Sleep well, you worthless piece of shit."

    <hr>

    Virgil entered Edith''s office quietly, careful not to disturb her work. The doctor sat hunched over her desk, studying her research notes intently. She seemed oblivious to the fact that someone else was in the room with her. He cleared his throat, and she glanced up briefly, acknowledging his presence.

    "How did it go?" she asked, returning to her typing.

    "About as well as I expected. The Gully Rats got into a tussle with Axion." He shrugged nonchalantly. "I cleaned up the mess."

    Edith stopped her typing and looked up. "Wait...did you kill them? You didn''t have to go that far¡ª"

    "Relax," he interrupted, shaking his head. "I''m not an idiot. I made it look like another gang hit. Nobody''s gonna come poking around." He folded his arms across his chest. "Anyway, what''s the status with the kid? You talked to her yet?"

    "Yeah, she''s resting now. I managed to patch her up. She took quite a beating."

    "Good. Hopefully she''s learned something from all this." Virgil sighed heavily, leaning against the doorway.

    Edith turned in her chair, facing him. "So, are you ready to actually meet her now?" She quirked her eyebrow, giving him a wry smile. "Or do you still intend to hide in the shadows?"

    "I''m not hiding," he countered sharply. "I''m keeping my distance, giving her space."

    Edith rolled her eyes, smirking. "Sure. Whatever you say, cowboy." She paused, chewing on her lower lip thoughtfully. "Come on, Virgil. It''s already been over a month since I asked you to train her. Isn''t it about time already?"

    He rubbed the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. "Fine. When she''s fully recovered, you can introduce me to her."

    "Perfect. Thanks."

    "Just remember one thing," he added sternly as he headed back out the door. "I''m not doing this for your sake. I¡¯m doing this for hers."

 Chapter 17: Sheep, Wolf, or Shepherd

    Fii''s fingers drummed a nervous rhythm on her thigh, her knee bouncing as she sat on the edge of a creaky cot in the dimly-lit waiting room. Her nerves were frayed, and she''d paced back and forth so much she almost wore a groove in the tile floor. Where the hell was Edith?

    She had told her to come here and wait. To meet someone who was supposedly going to teach her how to fight properly. Fii wasn''t sure what to make of that. Edith had barely explained anything, just shoved her into the room and went off to find the mystery guest.

    But that had been over an hour ago¡ªif the clock on the wall was working properly. Whoever this person was, they were probably a waste of time. Fii should have just left by now and gone on patrol.

    She leaned back against the wall, folding her arms across her chest. This was ridiculous. She didn''t need any help fighting. She''d done fine on her own. She was just getting better at it.

    Her eyes flicked to the door, and she caught a movement out of the corner of her eye. Someone was approaching. She went back to her seat and sat straighter. Maybe they hadn''t kept her waiting just to spite her. Whoever they were.

    The door swung open, and Edith stepped into the room, accompanied by a tall man wearing a worn cowboy hat. He stepped through the doorway with confident strides, his dark brown coat fluttering behind him as he entered. When his eyes met Fii''s, a chill ran down her spine. Something about him made her feel uneasy. Like he could see through her. She hated that feeling.

    "Fii, this is Virgil Maddox," Edith introduced, walking past her to the rear of the room. She motioned to a chair and took a seat herself.

    Virgil nodded his head once in greeting and lowered himself onto the cot opposite hers. The old frame creaked under his weight as he settled in.

    Edith continued, "He''s... experienced in matters like yours." She hesitated, seemingly considering her words.

    Fii''s eyebrows furrowed, and she glanced at Edith in confusion. She knew this was about training her, but what exactly was "matters like hers"? Fii''s gaze traveled over to the newcomer.

    Virgil''s lips twitched into a half-smile, his gaze never leaving Fii''s. "Used to be," he replied in a gravelly drawl. "But that''s a story for another time."

    Fii studied Virgil closely. The first thing she noticed about him was the obvious scar that marred his weathered face. It ran along the right side of his cheek, tracing the contours of his jawline. He had a rugged look, the lines on his face made him seem as old as Rao or Mr. Kane from Forge Town, but his posture didn''t seem to match. He held himself upright and firm, clearly fit and still agile despite his age.

    His appearance aside, there was something else about him that unnerved Fii. An air of danger lingered around him, radiating from every pore. It gave Fii goosebumps.

    And the revolver strapped to his waist certainly didn''t help.

    He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a silver coin, spinning it effortlessly across his knuckles.

    "So, uh, nice to meet you?" Fii said, glancing nervously between him and Edith. This wasn''t quite going according to plan. Fii had wanted answers. Instead, she only had more questions. She still didn''t know what to make of him.

    He flashed another crooked smile and extended his hand to shake. As Fii shook it, she noticed he had a large callus on his trigger finger. "The pleasure is all mine, darlin''."

    The nickname set Fii on edge, and she retracted her hand quickly, crossing her arms defensively. A slight frown crossed Virgil''s face, but it faded before she could discern whether or not she''d imagined it.

    Virgil cleared his throat, sensing the tension. "You know, when Edith told me about you, I was curious. Not many folks willingly step into the hero role, especially in these parts."

    Fii raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite herself. "What did she tell you?"

    He chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Enough to pique my interest. Said you had potential, a spark. But potential can be a double-edged sword. It can lead to greatness or... well, the opposite."

    Fii shifted in her seat, feeling slightly defensive. "I''m doing my best."

    "I don''t doubt that," Virgil replied, his tone softer. "But doing your best and knowing what you''re up against are two different things."

    Fii frowned, trying to decipher his meaning. "What are you getting at?"

    Virgil sighed, rubbing his temples. "Look, I''ve been in this game a long time. Seen heroes come and go in the metropolis. Some make a real difference, others... they burn out, or worse. It''s not just about having powers or wanting to do good. It''s about understanding the world you''re stepping into, the challenges you''ll face, and the sacrifices you''ll have to make."

    "Sacrifices?" Fii repeated quietly.

    "That''s right," Virgil confirmed, his expression stern. "Making a stand for something means accepting the consequences. Sometimes those consequences can be harsh. Sometimes they can cost you everything."

    Fii swallowed hard, feeling a knot form in her stomach. "I know it won''t be easy. But I''m willing to try."

    He nodded, seeming satisfied with her response. "Good. That''s what I like to hear. I''ve seen plenty of young folk like yourself lose themselves in this game. Some become bitter, others give up. Neither option is healthy. People like you are the ones who can change things for the better. That starts with being prepared. And the only way to prepare is through training and experience."

    Fii considered this. "Are you offering to train me?"

    He snorted and shook his head. "No, I''m offering you an opportunity to train with me. Understand the difference, kiddo. There''s no guarantee this will work. Training takes dedication, commitment. A lot more than most people are willing to give. Hell, I don''t even know if I can do it anymore."

    Edith scoffed at that. "Virgil, stop selling yourself short. You have the experience. I can vouch for that. I saw the reports. What you accomplished in the past was¡ª"

    "Yeah, yeah," he cut her off. "Maybe so. Doesn''t change the fact I''ve spent the past several years sitting on my ass in the slums. Time has a tendency to make a man rusty. And I can''t say for certain whether or not that''ll work, but if you''re serious about making a change, you''ll accept whatever training I offer."

    He paused, looking Fii straight in the eyes. "I''ve been watching from a distance, seeing how you handle things. You''ve got guts, I''ll give you that."

    Fii raised an eyebrow, "You''ve been watching me?"

    Virgil chuckled, "Not in a creepy way, if that''s what you''re thinking. Just wanted to see what all the fuss was about. And I''ve gotta say, you impressed me. You''ve got a long way to go, but there''s hope yet for you. Now, I don''t make a habit of teaching people like you, but given the circumstances..." he trailed off.

    Fii blinked in surprise, not expecting such high praise. She wasn''t sure how to respond, so she simply nodded. "Okay, so how does this work?"

    He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Before we dive into the deep end, tell me a bit about yourself, Fii. What was life like before all... this?" He waved his hand vaguely, encompassing the room and, by extension, her new life.

    Fii blinked, taken aback by the sudden shift in tone. "Um, well, it was... normal, I guess? I mean, as normal as life can be in the slums. I did odd jobs, tried to stay out of trouble, and just... survived."

    He nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "Survival. It''s a common theme down here. Everyone''s got their own way of getting by." He paused, looking Fii directly in the eyes. "What''s yours?"

    She shifted uncomfortably, "I... I don''t know. I just... did what I had to. I never really thought about it."

    He chuckled softly, "That''s fair. Most of us don''t. We''re too busy living in the moment, trying to make it to the next day."

    The room fell silent for a moment, the only sounds coming from the ticking clock on the wall. Fii glanced over at Edith, who seemed to be lost in thought herself, staring off into space.

    Finally, Virgil broke the silence as he leaned back in his chair, "You know, when I first came to the slums, I was a lot like you. Young, naive, full of hope. I thought I could change things, make a difference. And I did, for a while."

    He paused, his expression becoming solemn. "But eventually, things changed. The people here, they don''t always appreciate what you do for them. They take your kindness for granted and turn on you the moment they no longer have need of you. You can help as many of them as you like, but when push comes to shove, they''ll choose their own self-interests over yours. And that can make someone bitter, resentful. You have to understand that before you decide to go any further."

    Was he a HighRiser? Did he used to be a superhero in the metropolis? Who was this guy?

    Fii squinted, studying him more carefully. The scars on his face, his rough, callused hands, and the slight limp when he walked. He didn''t look like a superhero, more like a hardened gangster. There was a dangerous air about him, like he could snap at any moment. Fii had met enough of those types in the slums. She didn''t trust him. And she had a sneaking suspicion that Virgil sensed that as well.

    She exhaled slowly, "You''ve seen a lot, haven''t you?"

    Virgil shrugged, "Experience comes with age. And sometimes, with age comes wisdom. At least, that''s the theory. In my case, I prefer to call it survival instinct."

    "Is that what makes you dangerous?" she asked.

    He chuckled, "Now, that would be telling. Let''s just say I''ve lived through a lot, seen things other people haven''t. That gives me a unique perspective." He smiled wryly. "And the ability to spot talent when I see it."

    Fii raised an eyebrow. "Talent?"

    "That¡¯s ''right. I''m told you''ve got some experience using those nifty powers of yours," he commented casually, flicking his thumb over the coin. "Wanna show me?"

    Fii shifted uncomfortably in her seat. What kind of introduction was this? He wanted her to perform like a trained chihuahua right off the bat? The nerve of this guy.

    She held out her hand, and Virgil tossed the coin to her.

    Fii caught it deftly and examined the engraving on the front. It bore a depiction of a stylized, angelic-looking woman holding a sword aloft in one hand, and a set of scales in the other. On the back, a pair of wings appeared alongside the inscription, ''Astra inclinant, sed non obligant.''

    Virgil spoke without pause, "They incline us, but do not bind us. That''s what that phrase means." He glanced at the coin resting in Fii''s palm, a faraway look in his eyes.

    She flipped the coin between her fingers. "Where did you get this?"

    "Strangest place. Found it at a pawn shop." Virgil leaned back, interlacing his fingers and resting his elbows atop his knees. "Let''s see what you''ve got, sweetheart. Don''t hold back."

    "My name is Fii," she retorted sharply. "Not ''darlin'','' or ''sweetheart.'' And I''m not some street performer you get to gawk at. Got that?"

    He arched a brow in amusement. "My apologies... Fii. No offense meant. I meant no disrespect. Now, please." He gestured for her to proceed, his gaze intense.

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    Fii glanced to Edith for support. She shrugged in reply, apparently content to sit and watch.

    She sighed and stared at the coin. She closed her hand tightly, concentrating. As she focused, she willed her ability to flow into the object. Slowly, the coin began to rise, hovering a few inches above her palm.

    As the weight of the metal in her hand gradually lessened, Fii shifted her focus to controlling its movements. She maneuvered the coin between her fingers, twirling it around playfully.

    All the while, she kept track of the gravity inside the coin itself, maintaining control over its orientation relative to the Earth''s natural gravitational pull. The task was relatively easy, especially with something small and lightweight. Still, Fii kept her breathing steady, not daring to lose concentration. She didn''t want to mess this up. Not when she had an audience.

    Virgil watched in silence, his expression neutral. He didn''t react, even as the coin moved into unnatural positions. Eventually, he reached out a gloved hand and snatched the coin from the air. Fii jumped in surprise. His hand had moved too fast for her to track, even with her heightened reflexes.

    "Good," Virgil nodded, flipping the coin over a few times. "Your control is impressive." He pocketed the object and turned back to Fii. "How often do you use your powers? Every day? How many hours each session?"

    "Every day, I guess," Fii answered, frowning. "Not sure exactly. A few hours, I think?" She glanced at Edith, who simply shrugged again in reply.

    Virgil stood to his feet, dusting off his coat. "I assume you''ve used your power for mundane tasks, too. Increasing the gravitational pull of objects, lowering your gravity to jump higher, increasing the weight of an opponent, things like that." He paused, waiting for confirmation. "Is my assumption correct?"

    "Yes," Fii admitted.

    "Hmmm. Do you push yourself physically?" Virgil questioned. "You exercise regularly?"

    "Um, yeah? I run, parkour, climb buildings, stuff like that. It helps keep me in shape. Gotta stay flexible and strong to be a superhero." Fii replied.

    "Well, that''s a plus," Virgil remarked, pacing the room. "Any formal training in hand-to-hand combat?"

    Fii shook her head. "No, I learn as I go."

    "Good, at least you''re not relying solely on your power." He stopped abruptly, turning to face Fii. He stared directly into her eyes, his expression serious. "Tell me. What''s your goal here?"

    The question caught Fii off guard, and she stammered a response. "To become a superhero?"

    "Why?"

    The word hung heavily in the air. Fii struggled to answer. She glanced at Edith, unsure how to respond.

    "What drives you to be a hero, Fii?" Virgil repeated, his eyes narrowing. "What motivates you to risk your life?"

    She paused, collecting her thoughts before replying, "I want to make a difference. I want to help people. I want to protect the slums, and everyone who lives here, including myself."

    "That''s noble," Virgil acknowledged, resuming his pacing. "Though, you could easily achieve your goals by joining a gang and establishing yourself as their muscle. Hell, a lot of people here already do. What makes you different? What sets you apart from them?"

    "How does joining a gang help people and protect the slums? That doesn''t make any sense. Those guys just hurt people for their own gain," Fii retorted indignantly.

    "People join gangs for all sorts of reasons. Money, power, protection, drugs, you name it. They provide stability and security, at least in their territory. And, depending on the gang, they can also act as a charity of sorts. Looking out for those less fortunate. You could argue that they do a better job of helping people than most superheroes," Virgil responded, sounding amused. "Hell, a gang might be able to help you financially. All you''d have to do is sell your soul, commit murder on command, and swear allegiance to the boss. You know, basic gang initiation stuff."

    "So you''re saying I should join a gang instead of being a superhero?" Fii asked, confused. "What exactly are you trying to accomplish here? Because it sure isn''t helping."

    "No, that''s not what I''m saying, although I will admit the analogy wasn''t the greatest. Sorry. Point is, there are alternatives. Even in the slums. Becoming a superhero requires sacrifice and dedication. The question is, what drives you to take that path? If you can answer that, then I can begin to work with you. If not..." Virgil trailed off, leaving the statement unfinished.

    There was an uncomfortable silence after that as Fii struggled to articulate an answer. Eventually, she responded, "I don''t want to be like them, okay? I''m not a murderer or a thug. I want to be a hero, and heroes save people. That''s what I want to do. The only ones I''d have to hurt are the ones that deserve it."

    Virgil scoffed. "Heroism is a loaded concept, kid. Like I said, some folks would describe gang members as heroes, too, if you ask them. After all, they protect their turf, keep the peace, provide security. That''s basically what a superhero does, isn''t it?"

    Fii didn''t respond. His argument infuriated her. She couldn''t deny his logic, but he was wrong. Dead wrong. There had to be a distinction. It wasn¡¯t the same.

    He went on, "Everyone sees their situation through their own lens. Gangsters consider themselves to be heroic figures because they do what needs to be done to survive and protect their interests. You think your motives are purer, so you assign a moral halo effect to yourself. That''s an illusion. We''re all just rationalizing our actions to fit our desired outcome. It''s called cognitive dissonance."

    "I don''t know what that word means, but you sound like an asshole," Fii snapped, growing annoyed.

    Virgil laughed. "Maybe, but I''m also right. Anyways, I''ll just go along with what you said. You want to be a hero...ideally. So tell me, have you ever killed anyone?"

    The question caught Fii off guard. "N-no. Of course not! I''m not a killer!"

    Virgil raised his hands placatingly, "Easy there, sweet¡ªuh, Fii. Just wanted to be sure. Given your circumstances, you''d be surprised at the number of heroes who do."

    "Then what''s this about?" Fii demanded, "Why would you ask me something like that?"

    "Because," Virgil answered, his expression turning serious. "If you plan to continue playing the part of a superhero, you need to understand what that entails. In the slums, the only law is survival of the fittest. And sometimes, that means getting your hands dirty. You grew up here so you should know that."

    "I do know that, but that doesn''t mean I can kill people, that''s..." Fii protested, but Virgil cut her off.

    "Doing what''s necessary to protect yourself and others isn''t murder, Fii," he argued firmly, "It''s called survival. If someone tries to hurt you, or someone else, and you have the opportunity to stop them, then you should. Not because you enjoy it, or because you''re trying to play a hero. You do it because you have to, because that''s what''s required. Everything else is just excuses."

    He paused, letting the words sink in, "The only way you''ll last as a hero, Fii, is if you acknowledge the truth of things. If you can''t, you won''t survive. And you can''t bring real change unless you do. Because, once you enter that role, you have to be willing to do whatever it takes. Whatever it takes, understand?"

    The silence stretched for what seemed an eternity before Fii finally nodded in agreement.

    Virgil settled back into his seat. He continued, "You must also be aware of your own moral compass. Can you tell the difference between good and evil, or is everything black and white in your mind? You might think you can, but experience has a funny way of changing your perspective."

    Fii raised an eyebrow, curious, "What do you mean?"

    Virgil sighed, "Being a superhero involves making hard decisions, and sometimes, you won''t always be sure what''s right or wrong. Sometimes, you can''t always pick one or the other."

    She blinked, unsure of his meaning. "I don''t understand."

    "Let me put it this way. There are three kinds of people in this world, kid: sheep, wolves, and shepherds. Which do you think you are?"

    "I''m not a sheep, that''s for damn sure," Fii snapped.

    "Good," Virgil replied, smiling faintly. "Keep that fire. It''ll serve you well."

    He resumed pacing, his voice becoming somber. "Some folks are sheep. They''re the innocents of the world, minding their own business and keeping their heads down. Sometimes, they get preyed upon. That''s not their fault. They didn''t ask for that. The true shame lies in those who take advantage of the innocent for their own benefit."

    "Wolves," Fii guessed, following his train of thought.

    "That¡¯s right," Virgil said, nodding. "The majority of people can be classified as wolves. They''re selfish and greedy. They have no qualms exploiting others, stealing what they can''t earn, and killing for sport. If not for shepherds, they''d go unchecked. And trust me, kid, the world doesn''t need more shepherds. It needs fewer wolves."

    "What am I supposed to do with any of this?" Fii asked, exasperated. "Why are you telling me all this?"

    "To prove a point, of course," he responded, stopping to face her. He raised one hand and tapped his chest twice, emphasizing his words. "Everyone has the capacity for evil, kid. No matter how much you try to deny it. Whether it be murder or theft or exploitation¡ªit''s a part of our nature. Deep down, we all have a little wolf inside. And if given the chance, the opportunity, the temptation¡ªthat inner wolf comes out. That''s why I asked you, what makes you any different? What''s going to stop you from becoming the next gang boss? The next Big Bad Wolf?"

    Fii was speechless. This guy had a way of throwing her for a loop. She didn''t like where this conversation was going, and she didn''t like the direction in which his reasoning pointed.

    "Because I''m a shepherd!" Fii blurted angrily, throwing up her hands. "Okay? Is that what you want to hear? I''m here to help people. To keep the wolves in check. To stop more people from ending up like..." she trailed off, suddenly realizing what she''d been about to say. She hesitated, unsure of whether to finish her sentence.

    Virgil stared at her for a moment, studying her features intently. His expression softened slightly. "Like you." He finished her sentence for her, his tone gentle. "End up like you. Or maybe, like your parents?"

    Fii stiffened, a lump forming in her throat. She bit her lower lip hard, swallowing back tears. Her gaze fell to the floor.

    "I know, kid," he said quietly, putting a hand on her shoulder. "And that''s admirable. It truly is. But it''s also impossible. Don''t believe for a second you aren''t a wolf too. You have the capacity for violence, for ruthlessness. It''s a matter of circumstance."

    He released his grip, walking past her to where Edith sat. "When faced with a choice, what will you do? That''s the million ChitCred question. And until you have the answer, you shouldn''t be calling yourself a shepherd, let alone a hero."

    Fii sniffled, wiping at her eyes.

    Virgil didn''t speak for a moment. He appeared to be mulling something over before he continued, "If you truly want to make a change in this world, if you genuinely want to help people, then you must become more than just a shepherd. You must become a predator. A lion among a flock of sheep. And in order to hunt effectively, you have to train your instincts and hone your skills. Because no matter how good your intentions, the world isn''t interested in what you want. It cares what you''re willing to do."

    The room fell quiet, leaving only the sound of the ticking clock and the soft hum of machines outside the door. Fii couldn''t bring herself to look at him. Instead, she kept her gaze fixed on the floor, staring at a single spot on the tiled surface.

    He waited patiently, giving her time to process everything. After a minute, he finally broke the silence. "What are you prepared to sacrifice for the sake of others, Fii? Can you withstand the hard choices and do what''s necessary to protect the sheep? Because believe me, when the moment of truth arrives, you''ll find that there are no shepherds anymore. Only predators, and prey. And sometimes, the lines between the two grow very, very blurred."

    Fii didn''t know what to say. She kept her mouth shut, unable to formulate a reply.

    "That''s enough, Virgil," Edith interjected, placing a hand on Fii''s shoulder. "I brought her here so she could learn from you, not to be lectured and criticized."

    Virgil scoffed and turned his back to them both, facing the opposite wall. "You''re mistaken, Doc. You don''t want her to learn. You want her to succeed. There''s a huge difference between the two. And the sooner she learns the truth, the better."

    He paused, shaking his head before looking back at Fii. "Look. If you''re willing to put in the effort, if you''re willing to walk down the path I set before you¡ªand it won''t be easy¡ªthen I will help you become a hero who''s fit for the slums. But in exchange, you must accept what I''m offering. If you can''t, if you choose instead to live in denial and play pretend, then you''ll end up either dead, or worse¡ªbecome just another Big Bad Wolf. And you don''t want that, ''cause I specialize in hunting ''em."

    Fii opened her mouth, trying to respond. Nothing came out. Her mind reeled, still processing everything he''d said. She glanced over at Edith, desperately seeking support.

    Edith met her gaze and patted her head gently. "Take your time. I know it''s a lot to absorb."

    Virgil sighed and nodded slowly. "It''s fine. Take the rest of the day to think it over. I''ll be waiting at the police station. It''s your choice to make, kid. Yours alone."

    With a final tip of his hat, he strode towards the door, disappearing into the darkness beyond.

    After taking some time to calm herself, Fii let out a sigh and closed her eyes, slumping against the chair. It wasn''t exactly the best introduction, but at the very least, she now understood a bit more about her mysterious mentor. Maybe not the type of person she initially hoped he''d be, but at least he was honest.

    Edith gripped Fii''s shoulder reassuringly. "Don''t let him bother you. Virgil tends to speak his mind, even when he shouldn''t. He has his reasons."

    "Who was that, anyway?" Fii asked, staring at the empty doorway.

    "You ever heard of a guy called ''Backfire''?" Edith inquired.

    Fii''s eyes widened. "Wait...he''s Backfire?!"

    Who hadn''t heard of that name? He was some legendary vigilante, years and years back who was kicked out of the metropolis. Then he tried setting up a police force in the slums before disappearing and becoming a ghost story. The guys who ran protection rackets around the marketplaces all came from his disbanded posse, so people said. But what the hell was someone like that doing in Edith''s clinic?

    "Yeah," Edith confirmed, letting go of Fii''s shoulder and stepping back. "He''s one of the few people in the slums who can help you become what you want. Even if he won''t admit it."

    "He seemed kinda angry at me..." Fii mused. "Did I do something wrong?"

    Edith smiled sadly. "No, you didn''t. You were just unlucky enough to remind him of his past. That''s all. Don''t worry, though. He really does want to train you. He wouldn''t have bothered coming here otherwise."

    "Why can''t he just say it then? He didn''t have to act like such an asshole." Fii complained, crossing her arms. She couldn''t stand arrogant, know-it-all jerks. Especially ones who took every opportunity to act superior.

    Edith patted her arm comfortingly. "Virgil''s been through a lot, Fii. Give him some slack. I promise he''ll come around once he sees your potential. He''s just a bit rough around the edges."

    Fii remained unconvinced but dropped the issue. If she argued further, she might risk offending the infamous Backfire. And that seemed like a terrible idea.

    She sighed. "I thought I was done with all the training..."

    "Think of it as... continuing your education," Edith suggested, giving her a half-hearted grin. "Just stick with it for now and see what happens. He may be a jerk at times, but Virgil knows what he''s talking about. If he says he can make you better, he can. Trust me."

    "If you say so," Fii acquiesced. "But if he keeps being rude, I''m not gonna put up with it."

    "Fair enough," Edith agreed. "Just give him a chance, okay? For me. Please?"

    Fii looked into her pleading eyes and couldn''t bring herself to refuse. "Okay...I''ll do my best."

 Chapter 18: The Vigil

    <hr>

    The dilapidated police station stood before Fii, casting a long shadow across the dusty street. Her eyes roved over the broken windows and weather-worn doors, noting the faded lettering on the exterior. As she approached the entrance, she hesitated. Could she really do this?

    Fii recalled Virgil''s cryptic warning and Edith''s encouragement. She wanted to make a difference in the slums, no matter what the cost. Yet, the thought of learning from the notorious Backfire made her nervous.

    As she stood before the door, a voice rang out in the stillness. "Coming or not?"

    She turned to see Virgil standing near an alleyway, a cigarette in his hand and a smirk on his lips. Fii gave him a curt nod, striding forward with as much confidence as she could muster.

    The door swung open with a creak, revealing the darkened interior of the station. As she stepped inside, her eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, taking in the dust-covered furniture and graffiti-covered walls. A small beam of sunlight filtered through the boarded-up windows, illuminating a stack of moldy cardboard boxes and an old desk. The station had clearly been abandoned for quite some time.

    Even through her cyber helmet, Fii wrinkled her nose at the musty smell, resisting the urge to cough.

    Virgil nudged Fii forward. "Welcome to your new training grounds, kiddo."

    "Looks cozy," Fii muttered sarcastically.

    Virgil walked past, trailing smoke behind him. He sat down in a worn office chair and gestured for Fii to do the same. She complied, pulling out another seat from beneath a desk covered in cobwebs.

    With a slight hesitation, Fii unclasped her cyber helmet and pulled it off her head. Her short, white hair spilled out, and she tucked it behind her ears, smoothing out the tangles. She set the helmet down on the table, glancing nervously at Virgil.

    Despite the grime and dirt, the man projected a sense of calm authority. He removed a pack of cigarettes from his coat and offered her one, "Smoke?"

    "No thanks, not my thing," Fii replied, waving him off.

    He shrugged and pulled out a lighter, touching the flame to the end of his cigarette. Taking a long drag, he exhaled a puff of smoke into the stale air. "You wanna make a real difference in this hellhole we call home?" He regarded Fii with a steady gaze. "You gotta commit."

    Fii stared back, refusing to back down. "I''m committed."

    Virgil smirked and leaned forward, gesturing to his eyes with two fingers. "Gotta commit with your eyes, your ears, and your heart. You can''t lie to me, kid. I''ve been around long enough to see through bullshit."

    "I''m not bullshitting you," Fii shot back. "I''ve got what it takes."

    He man shook his head. "You got moxie, I''ll give you that. But that ain''t enough. You gotta want it more than anything else. It has to be all-consuming." He tapped his temple with his index finger. "It has to live in here." He placed his hand over his heart, tapping his chest lightly. "And in here, too. You understand what I''m saying?"

    "Sure," Fii agreed. "That''s why I''m here."

    Virgil''s expression remained unchanged, his gaze piercing into Fii. "Show me."

    "Huh?"

    Virgil crushed the remains of his cigarette against the table and stood, his chair screeching against the floorboards. "Let''s go for a walk." He turned and started walking towards a hallway.

    Fii scrambled to her feet, grabbing her helmet and placing it back on her head. "Where are we going?"

    "To the training grounds," Virgil replied over his shoulder, his pace unwavering.

    As they passed a broken window, Fii caught sight of her reflection in the glass. The LED eyes on her visor stared back, reflecting light like twin blue stars. The sight still unnerved her, though she had grown accustomed to seeing it during the few weeks.

    "Quit dawdling, girl." Virgil called from further ahead. Fii quickened her pace, jogging after him as he disappeared through an archway.

    The back of the police building led into a secluded courtyard, enclosed by a rusted chain-link fence. The ground was cracked and uneven, littered with trash and debris. A pile of tires and scrap metal occupied the corner, rusting away in the sun.

    In the center of the space was a ring of concrete, marked by white chalk and a crudely drawn target.

    Virgil gestured to it with a flourish. "Impressive, isn''t it?" He winked at Fii. "This is where we''ll be training. It''s not much, but it works."

    Fii surveyed the area, trying to hide her disappointment. The training ground was sparse, to say the least. Compared to what Edith had managed to scrounge up at that other building, this was practically a dump.

    "There''s no equipment, no weapons... Where''s the training stuff?" She glanced at Virgil quizzically.

    Virgil grinned. "In your brain, sweetheart."

    "I told you not to call me that, remember?" Fii bristled at his casual dismissal.

    "Right, sorry. Fii. Or Axion. Take your pick." He waved a hand dismissively. "Now, before we begin, there are a few ground rules. Rule number one, do whatever I tell you. If I tell you to do something, you do it. End of story. No questions, no complaints. Understand?"

    Fii frowned, "I''m not sure¡ª"

    "Rule number two," Virgil interrupted, cutting her off mid-sentence. "You will address me as ''sir''. Is that clear?"

    "Uh, yes, sir." Fii muttered reluctantly. This guy was really getting on her nerves.

    "Rule number three. Always tell me the truth. Honesty is crucial in this line of work. Any questions?"

    "What exactly are we training for, sir?" Fii inquired.

    He considered her question, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "For starters, I need to teach you some basic combat skills. I''ve seen your fights, and I can tell you''re raw, untrained, and unskilled. Your approach is sloppy, to say the least. In the end, you rely on your power to carry you through. While that''s effective against most of the scum living here, it won''t work against someone more skilled. You''re a liability to yourself, kid."

    "Are you saying my fighting sucks, sir?" Fii scowled, feeling offended.

    He shrugged. "About as bad as your average crook."

    Fii crossed her arms defensively.

    Virgil held up a hand. "Hold on a second, I''m not done. While you lack experience, you show some promise. Your athleticism and determination are unquestionable, and you''ve demonstrated that you''re able to adjust and adapt to changing circumstances. That''s important in a fight."

    His words caught Fii off-guard. Was he... complimenting her? It certainly seemed like it, judging by the way he spoke. She was about to thank him when he added, "Of course, I can tell you''ve never trained properly in your life until Edith picked you up. That ends now."

    Fii felt the blood rush to her cheeks in embarrassment. Of course, he had to ruin the moment by insulting her. Why did he always have to be so condescending? She bit back an angry retort, choosing instead to remain silent.

    Virgil continued, "So, I''m going to show you how to handle yourself physically, without relying on your power. You''re a metahuman anyway so you''re already stronger, faster, and more agile than normal humans. Let''s build upon that. Oh, and you''ll also need to learn how to fight dirty."

    "Dirty, sir?" Fii asked.

    "Yup, dirty. The first lesson you need to learn is that in a real fight, the objective is to win. It doesn''t matter how you accomplish that goal, as long as you succeed. Ethics and morality play no role. Only survival matters. Now, are you ready to start?"

    "Yes, sir."

    "Good," Virgil smiled. "Let''s begin."

    <hr>

    The following week, Fii stood in the middle of the training grounds, her fists raised defensively. Her bodysuit was covered in dust and sweat, and her legs ached from the constant strain. She''d spent hours sparring with Virgil, and he''d yet to break a sweat.

    He paced back and forth in front of her, his hands clasped behind his back. "Keep your elbows in, and rotate your wrists slightly. Good. Now, jab!" He barked.

    Fii obeyed, thrusting her left fist forward. Virgil swatted aside her attack effortlessly and circled her, his eyes scanning her form intently.

    "Elbows," he chided, slapping her sharply across the upper arm. She flinched at the impact and lowered her arms. "Relax," he ordered. "Loosen those shoulders."

    She obeyed, loosening her shoulders and dropping her elbows slightly.

    Virgil nodded, "Better. Now, let''s go again. Jab!"

    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    She threw another punch, and Virgil parried it aside.

    He lunged forward, catching her off-balance. Before she could react, he grabbed her wrist, twisted it sharply, and pinned her arm behind her back. In one fluid motion, he spun her around, sending her crashing to the ground. The wind rushed from her lungs, and her vision blurred.

    Her right knee throbbed in pain from where it had struck the hard, concrete ground.

    "Get up," Virgil commanded, releasing her and stepping back. "Remember, when you throw a punch, keep your elbow bent slightly and rotate your hips forward as you extend your arm. You can''t telegraph your movements if you keep your torso centered."

    Fii stumbled to her feet, gasping for breath. "Can I take a break, sir?" She pleaded.

    Virgil arched an eyebrow, "No."

    She groaned inwardly but kept her composure, rolling her shoulders and shaking out her arms. She took a deep breath, preparing to repeat the exercise. "Ready, sir."

    He nodded and began circling her once more. "Jab."

    She threw a series of rapid punches, punctuating each movement with a sharp grunt. Virgil blocked and deflected her attacks, matching her pace. As they fought, Fii''s frustration grew. He never seemed to get tired, never broke a sweat, and he always had some snarky comment to make. She clenched her jaw, her anger fueling her strikes.

    Eventually, she lost her composure and lunged forward, aiming a clumsy right hook at his face. Virgil sidestepped the blow, catching her fist and using her momentum to throw her into the ground. She landed hard on her back, knocking the wind from her lungs.

    He placed his boot on her stomach and leaned over, fixing her with a stern glare. "Never let your emotions get the better of you. Anger makes you sloppy, and sloppiness gets you killed."

    Fii pushed his leg aside and climbed to her feet, biting her tongue to avoid arguing. As she stood, she noticed Virgil studying her closely. He nodded approvingly and stepped back. "That''s enough for today. Rest up. We''ll resume tomorrow at the usual time." With that, he turned and headed back to the station.

    Fii watched him leave, fuming internally. This was ridiculous. The old bastard was making her do laps around the block, run up and down the building, and he had her punching targets for hours on end¡ªand he wasn''t even letting her use her powers.

    She''d been at this for a week now, and she was starting to grow exhausted from the relentless drilling. Virgil didn''t seem to care. In fact, he seemed to relish her discomfort. She grit her teeth and squatted to the ground, forcing herself to do fifty pushups. After finishing the set, she rolled over and lay in the dust, staring up at the sky.

    It was already midday, and she hadn''t eaten yet. Her stomach growled painfully. With a sigh, she sat upright and dusted herself off, ignoring the throbbing ache in her joints and muscles. This was going to be a long day.

    After a few minutes, she followed after him. He stood in the office area of the police station, cleaning his pistol methodically. Even when it looked pristine, he kept working at it.

    Weird guy.

    Fii found a plastic bottle of water and chugged half of it in a single gulp. The cold liquid soothed her dry throat, and she sighed contentedly. "When can I use my power again, sir?" She asked tentatively. "You know, for combat."

    "Soon," he answered without looking up. "You have to build a proper foundation first."

    "I know that," she pressed on, undeterred. "But when?"

    "When I deem you ready," he replied, finally glancing her way. "Until then, focus on the basics. Stamina, footwork, technique. Once you''ve mastered those, we can move on to the advanced stuff."

    Fii couldn''t hide the frustration in her tone. "This is going to take forever."

    "Life is full of hardship and suffering, kid," Virgil stated matter-of-factly. "Nothing worth doing is ever easy. Isn''t there a saying around these parts: ''scrap today, shine tomorrow?''" He finished polishing the pistol and flicked open the cylinder, examining the chambers. Satisfied, he closed the revolver with a resounding click and holstered the weapon.

    "Yeah, yeah... scrap today, shine tomorrow," Fii recited dutifully. "Got it. Sir."

    Virgil grunted and gave a terse nod, turning to walk away. "I''ll be back in a bit. Stay here. Make yourself useful." He disappeared into the shadows of the adjacent room.

    Fii stared blankly at the place where he''d been a moment before, then shrugged. Maybe she''d just practice some kicks while he was gone. At the very least, she could take a break and stretch out her sore muscles. She turned to wander around the abandoned station, exploring its corners.

    The wooden floorboards creaked softly beneath her weight, and she traced the pattern of peeling paint with her fingertips as she wandered aimlessly through the building. She hasn''t had a proper tour of the place yet, preferring to stick close to where they were practicing. The dust coated everything, including herself, leaving streaks of gray across her bodysuit.

    A sudden crash startled her from her thoughts, and she whirled to face the source of the noise. A rat scurried past, fleeing from its hiding spot in a broken cabinet. She exhaled sharply and relaxed. Rats. Ugh. The creepy little bastards scared the crap out of her sometimes. They were everywhere in the slums, especially in these abandoned buildings.

    Fii shuddered and continued along the hallway, opening each door carefully and peeking inside. She discovered an old supply closet, a locker room, and an interrogation room with a dusty one-way mirror. Everything else appeared to be offices and storage areas.

    The entire station smelled faintly of mold and mildew, and the air itself seemed thick and heavy, making it difficult to breathe. If it wasn''t for her helmet, she probably would''ve had to hold her nose the whole time. How could Virgil stand being cooped up in here?

    In the distance, she spied a set of stairs leading to a lower level. Curiosity piqued, Fii descended the steps cautiously, reaching the bottom in short order. The basement was pitch-black, and she blinked rapidly, adjusting her vision to the dark. Her helmet could have provided her with night vision, but she tapped the side to turn the feature off. She still found it weird to see everything through a green filter.

    As the ambient light intensified, she spotted a row of jail cells lining the far wall, each barred with solid iron bars.

    The floor was bare concrete, and the ceiling hung low, supported by thick beams overhead. Some kind of machinery loomed in the darkness, hidden in shadow. Fii crept closer, peering into the nearest cell.

    It was empty, save for a rusted metal cot and a filthy toilet. A cobweb-covered ventilation grate stuck out from the far wall, its metal mesh covered in a thin layer of dust. Fii brushed aside a strand of webbing with her gloved hand and peered into the vent, blinking as she tried to see through the gloom. It looked like an ordinary ventilation duct, but she couldn''t be certain. Something about the place gave her the chills.

    "What are you doing?" A familiar voice called out behind her.

    Fii jumped, nearly hitting her head on the top of the ventilation duct. She turned to see Virgil leaning against the far wall, watching her intently. "Sir! You startled me..." she explained, steadying herself.

    Virgil walked over, hands in his pockets. "This is where people kept the prisoners, back in the old days." He gazed around, surveying the room. "Been a while since anyone''s been here. Me included. Almost forgot this place existed."

    "It''s kinda creepy, don''t you think?" Fii remarked, taking a step back.

    He shrugged, "It''s just a basement. Nothing to be afraid of. Come on, I''ll show you something cool." He beckoned her forward, leading the way deeper into the depths.

    Virgil led her down a narrow corridor, his footsteps echoing against the stone floor. His pace was brisk, and he didn''t say anything as they walked.

    The tunnel opened into a large room lit by a fluorescent light hanging from a cord in the center of the ceiling. There were several filing cabinets lined against the wall, their drawers labeled with faded letters. The walls themselves were covered with maps, charts, and notes pinned to the faded wallpaper.

    In the corner was a cluttered desk, overflowing with papers and books. Fii scanned the area, wondering what all of this meant. It was clearly a workspace of sorts, but for whom?

    Virgil crossed his arms and stared at her expectantly, "Well? What do you think?"

    "Um...I''m still waiting to see the cool thing, sir."

    "Your eyes. Look around. And knock it off with saying ''sir'' all the time. We''re not training right now," He replied, gesturing for her to continue inspecting the room.

    Fii examined the room more thoroughly, noticing that almost every surface was covered with notes and diagrams. It seemed that every inch of available space had been used to record some piece of information. Everywhere she looked, she saw words scribbled in ink, alongside sketches of maps and diagrams of mechanical parts. Several equations filled one entire wall, their contents indecipherable to her.

    "Is this Edith''s secret hideout?" Fii asked hesitantly.

    Virgil snorted, "You think Edith hangs out here? Nah, she''s got her own digs elsewhere. This is what the cops used to call their ''think tank''."

    "Huh," she mused, wandering over to the desk and leafing through a stack of papers lying atop the heap. Most of the writing was illegible, but every now and then, she came across a phrase or sentence that she could make out. Many of them concerned gang activities or the rise in violence throughout the district.

    "So they really did try and clean the place up?" Fii turned to him.

    He nodded gravely. "Back in the day, the slums weren''t such a shithole. It was a thriving city, just like any other at the time. But after the metropolis was built, all the wealth and attention flowed outta here, and it became a ghost town almost overnight. The police force shrank, corruption took root, and everyone pretty much gave up. Those who could afford it abandoned their roots for a slice of prosperity in the shiny new city. Those who couldn''t...well, they got left behind."

    Fii had only known the slums as they existed now. It was strange to imagine a time when things had been different. She ran a finger over a tattered page, tracing a line of text. "Doesn''t the metropolis care about us at all?" She wondered aloud.

    "Not particularly," Virgil snorted derisively. "They care enough to appease their guilt and to ensure the slums remain standing. Ain''t nothing more than a ghetto for undesirables. Everyone who lives here is an unwanted, or a reject of some sort. Outcasts, refugees, vagabonds, orphans..." He trailed off, gazing at her. "Like you and me, kid."

    "You lived in the city, didn''t you? Before?" She asked. "Were you exiled or something?"

    Virgil fixed her with a cold stare. "We''ll talk more about that later. But let''s just say I got mixed up in politics, and they kicked my ass to the curb."

    Fii nodded. She figured as much, based on Edith''s earlier hints. It would explain his cryptic nature and general distrust of authority. "Do you miss it?"

    "Miss what, kid?" he asked, raising his eyebrows.

    "Being a part of the city?"

    Virgil smirked humorlessly. "Sometimes. And other times, I feel like I dodged a bullet." He shook his head slowly, staring at the floor. "Let''s head on out before I start rambling on about how fucked up the world is."

    Fii folded the paper neatly and tucked it back amongst the others.

    Looked like she dodged a bullet as well. He could have gone on for hours rambling if she''d let him. "All right, bossman," she acknowledged, mustering her energy.

    Virgil motioned for her to follow and headed back out of the basement. As they walked, she thought she saw a hint of sadness in his eyes, reflected by the dim light. But he moved away too quickly for her to be sure.

    As they walked up the stairs, a sudden thought occurred to her. "Hey, um...I''ve been meaning to ask." She stopped halfway and turned to face him directly. "Does this place have a name?"

    Virgil paused mid-step. "A name?" He glanced back at her curiously.

    Fii shifted her weight from foot to foot. "Yeah, I mean, every place has a name, right? So, does this police station have one, too?"

    He stared at her for a moment longer before his lips curled upward into a lopsided grin. "The Vigil."

    Fii blinked. "The Virgil?"

    "No, not my name, ya moron. The Vigil!" He said emphatically, emphasizing the word.

    Fii scrunched up her face, confused. The LED eyes on her visor narrowed skeptically. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    "Vigil. It means ''watching,'' or ''observing,''" he explained, continuing his ascent. "Someone keeping watch over the city, making sure everyone stays in line."

    "Huh, the Vigil," Fii repeated, rolling the word over her tongue. It sounded awfully like his name. "Wait...did you come up with it?"

    "You got a problem with it?" Virgil shot back defensively. "I liked the sound of it."

    "Nah, it''s not bad." Fii replied as they reached the ground floor. "It''s just gonna sound weird whenever I say ''I''ll be at The Vigil training with Virgil'' or whatever."

    He laughed, and she sensed genuine mirth in his voice. "Fair enough, but I''m not changing it. Anyways, get some food and rest. You got more training ahead of ya. Same time tomorrow."

 Chapter 19: The Gilded Library

    Fii stood next to Virgil in the shadows, peering around the corner. She was still surprised that he was willing to take her out on patrol, but she didn''t question it. She just hoped she wouldn''t slow him down or get in his way.

    "Keep your eyes peeled, kid," he instructed, scanning the alley ahead of them. "We''re not going to fight any gangs or bust any deals tonight. We''re just gonna watch and observe. Got it?"

    Fii nodded, trying to ignore the nervous fluttering in her stomach. Even though she had been on patrols before, this would be the first time shadowing him. "Yes, sir."

    "Don''t call me ''sir''. You''re not in training right now," he corrected, stepping out from cover. Fii followed, staying close to his heels. "Just call me Virgil."

    She had grown accustomed to calling him "sir", but it was awkward to break the habit so abruptly. Still, she tried her best. "Right, Virgil."

    Instead of her bodysuit and helmet, she wore a black hoodie and a pair of worn jeans. A red scarf and a baseball cap concealed most of her features, ensuring she wasn''t immediately recognizable. The disguise wasn''t perfect, but hopefully nobody would give her a second glance. Especially not with Virgil beside her.

    The streets were relatively quiet as they walked, and Fii breathed in the fresh night air appreciatively. It always felt nice to be outdoors after spending most of her time cooped up in The Vigil.

    She took in her surroundings, marveling at how peaceful everything seemed. This was the slums, but when everyone''s tucked in for the night, the district becomes eerily serene. Aside from the occasional sounds of distant laughter or conversations coming from within the ramshackle buildings, the streets were mostly deserted.

    Despite the calm, she still kept her guard up. The gangs had been quiet recently, but that could change at a moment''s notice. And after what happened the last time, she refused to let her guard slip again. She tugged on her hood, making sure her face was hidden in shadow.

    "First rule of surveillance: blend in," Virgil reminded her. "The goal isn''t to scare them off, but rather to catch them unawares. If they spot you, they''ll bolt. It''s best to stay inconspicuous as long as possible. Got it?"

    "Uh huh," Fii mumbled distractedly.

    The two of them fell into silence as they navigated through the winding alleys, stopping every now and then to listen for approaching footsteps or voices. After a while, Virgil halted in front of a dilapidated apartment complex and pointed to a balcony on the third floor.

    "See that?" he murmured under his breath, gesturing to a silhouette on the railing.

    Fii squinted her eyes, recognizing the figure as a woman smoking a cigarette. "Uh...yeah. So?"

    "Watch," Virgil instructed, pressing a pair of binoculars into her hands. "Keep your eyes on that balcony, and don''t look away until I say so. I''ll tell you when to stop."

    Fii lifted the binoculars and adjusted them so that she could focus on the balcony. She wasn''t entirely sure what Virgil was expecting, but she played along for now. Through the lenses, she could make out the woman still standing there, only now she was accompanied by a man.

    They were chatting, and the woman passed the cigarette to the male, who took a puff and handed it back to her. Fii wrinkled her nose in disgust as she watched them smoke together.

    "That''s it?" She asked, lowering the binoculars. "They''re just hanging out and getting stoned. Why is that suspicious?"

    "Keep watching," Virgil instructed, nudging her in the side. "It''s about to get interesting."

    She rolled her eyes and resumed her surveillance. After a few moments, a third person approached the couple from behind, brandishing a baggie filled with a white substance. She couldn''t make out their conversation, but it seemed to be a friendly interaction. The woman took the baggie and tucked it into her jacket, and the new arrival disappeared into the shadows.

    Fii blinked. "Wait...did I just see a drug deal?"

    "Sure did, kiddo." Virgil nodded. "But keep going."

    She focused on the scene once more, observing as the first man pulled out a wad of ChitCreds and counted it. The woman accepted the money with a smile and turned to walk inside, only to be confronted by a group of figures clad in black masks who emerged from the nearby stairwell. Before Fii could react, the masked intruders lunged at the man, stabbing him repeatedly in the chest.

    Fii gasped audibly, realizing what was happening. "Holy shit."

    The men in the masks stormed into the apartment and began smashing things, tossing furniture, and throwing objects through the windows. The woman tried to flee, but she was dragged back inside by the attackers. Fii winced as she watched, imagining the violence unfolding within.

    It didn''t take long for the commotion to attract the attention of people in neighboring apartments, who burst out onto the balconies to see what was happening. As more lights flickered on inside the building, Fii lowered the binoculars and turned to Virgil, an unspoken question etched across her face.

    "Yup," he replied, confirming her suspicions. "Welcome to gang warfare, kid."

    <hr>

    "How''d you know they''d be there?" Fii asked as they made their way back to The Vigil.

    "Call it a hunch." He responded, sidestepping a puddle in the pavement. "And years of experience."

    Fii followed suit, dodging the murky water. She was no stranger to gang violence, but that particular incident had rattled her more than usual. It wasn''t the death or the violence itself; she''d seen plenty of that growing up in the slums. Rather, it was the senselessness of the whole thing. All for a stupid drug. She clenched her jaw. If only she''d been able to stop it.

    "I''ve seen too many bodies like that over the years, kid," Virgil added grimly, as if reading her mind. "Happens more often than you''d think. Usually over trivial things. Drugs, weapons, turf. Sometimes for petty squabbles."

    Fii kicked a pebble along the path. She tried to recall a single positive memory involving any gangs, but came up empty. She was beginning to understand why Virgil had given up on them altogether.

    They walked the rest of the way in silence. Eventually, they arrived at the familiar walls of The Vigil. Virgil climbed the steps and entered through the main entrance, while Fii hesitated. She wanted to join him inside, but she needed to clear her head first.

    "I''m going to take a walk." She announced, turning on her heel to leave.

    Virgil paused, glancing back over his shoulder at her. "Suit yourself, kid." With that, he vanished into the building, leaving Fii alone with her thoughts.

    She wandered aimlessly through the maze of narrow alleys, allowing her feet to carry her wherever they pleased. She was so caught up in her own musings that she didn''t even pay attention to where she was going. After a while, she found herself in an unfamiliar area.

    As she rounded the corner, she came across an old brick building, its fa?ade covered in ivy and moss. Its windows were cracked, and its paint peeled, giving it an abandoned appearance. But as Fii drew closer, she noticed the ornate sign above the doorway. In faded lettering, it read: "The Gilded Library."

    Fii tilted her head, staring at the establishment curiously. She''d never heard of the place before. But judging by its run-down exterior, it didn''t seem like the type of place to attract much attention. Still, she found herself drawn to it, and without hesitation, she stepped through the front doors.

    The interior was dimly lit, with stacks of books lining every wall. The shelves were filled with old tomes and leather-bound volumes, each with a layer of dust covering their spines. A faint smell of mold and mildew lingered in the air, and Fii could see cobwebs in the corners.

    She looked around, bewildered, but didn''t find anyone else present. She assumed it was because of how late it was. Slowly, she began to explore, browsing the shelves idly as she made her way through the labyrinth of books.

    Never realized there was a place like this here. Maybe Edith might want to check this place out sometime. Or Virgil. He strikes me as the bookish type. Then again, I barely know anything about him. Or Edith for that matter.

    The thought nagged at her, but Fii pushed it aside as she continued wandering.

    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    As she explored further, she spotted an old man hunched over a desk, his head buried in a book. He didn''t seem to notice her, and Fii moved quietly, careful not to disturb him.

    Upon closer inspection, she saw the man had long, scraggly white hair and a beard to match. His clothing was worn and frayed, but he appeared comfortable enough as he flipped through the pages, reading intently. Fii crept closer, peering over the man''s shoulder. He hadn''t even acknowledged her presence.

    "Hey, excuse me." Fii called out hesitantly.

    The old man flinched slightly, blinking in surprise, and glanced in her direction. He had a kindly face with warm brown eyes and deep laugh lines. "Oh! Sorry, didn''t see you there! Can I help you?"

    His voice carried a soft, pleasant tone, and Fii felt at ease instantly. "Hi, yeah, I was just passing by and got curious about this place. Didn''t expect to find a library hidden in the slums. This is a library, right?" She motioned around the room.

    The old man nodded. "Yes indeedy, this is a library, all right. A shame more people don''t visit it anymore. Not like they used to, anyway..." He trailed off wistfully, shaking his head.

    "How long has this place been open?" She inquired.

    "Since I can remember, young lady. A very long time." The man leaned back in his chair, stretching his limbs. "Though, truth be told, I never was much for books myself. I preferred comic books as a boy."

    Fii''s ears perked up. "Comic books?"

    The elderly librarian smiled wryly. "Heh, I can tell by that glimmer in your eye you''re a fan yourself?"

    "I own one. Managed to trade some old salvage for it."

    "Really? Well, aren''t you a lucky girl. Those things are hard to come by nowadays. Though, I reckon, even when they weren''t, you''d be hard-pressed to find someone in the slums interested in buying them."

    "Yeah, not exactly something you can use or eat. How do you keep this place running? Getting your own electricity around here''s a hassle."

    "Got solar panels and a generator in the back. Ain''t much, but it gets the job done. Though, these old lamps do give me a bit of grief at times..." He gestured to the ceiling. "Got the idea from the metropolis, actually. Heard they had big windmills or whatnot over there. Quite ingenious, those city folks. You''d think they''d share more of their tech with us simple folk instead of hoarding all the wealth for themselves."

    "Tell me about it," Fii concurred. "Guess they figured ''out of sight, out of mind.''"

    "Exactly right, young lady. That''s the way I like to put it, too," he agreed, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "A shame you only came here on a whim, though. I sure do enjoy meeting new faces and talking with people."

    Fii paused, debating whether to continue the conversation. She glanced around at the rows of books. "So, where do you get the books, anyway?"

    The elderly gentleman stroked his beard again, "Well, that''s a story unto itself. Sometimes, we get donations from folks around the slums, though those are few and far between. Other times, folks like you wander in, discover this old hole in the wall, and decide to leave something behind."

    He chuckled. "Truth be told, some of these books have been here for as long as I can remember, though. My grandfather told me stories about this place. Said he frequented it when he was younger. And his father did the same." He shrugged. "And now here we are. Three generations later. Kinda poetic when you think about it."

    Fii smiled, amused by his optimism. "I guess so. Thanks for telling me that, umm..."

    "Call me Orion. Pleasure to meet you, Miss...?"

    "Fii."

    Orion held out a frail, wrinkled hand and shook Fii''s firmly. "A nice to meet ya, Fii. If you ever feel like you want to read up on something, don''t be a stranger, okay? Feel free to come by anytime. I''m almost always around." He beamed cheerfully, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Oh, and if you can''t read yet, I''d be happy to teach ya. Been a while since I taught anybody to read."

    "Thanks, Mr. Orion, I appreciate that. I can manage to read on my own though, I learned how a few months back." She hesitated. "Actually, if you''d like, I can drop by and help out every now and then? Clean the place up a bit? It''s kind of a mess, you know."

    He raised an eyebrow and chuckled, "You''d be surprised to find a bit of dirt and grime make a place feel more homely. But sure, if you want to come by and sweep the floor or organize the shelves, be my guest. Any assistance is always welcome, especially from a bright young lady such as yourself¡ª"

    Suddenly, the door flew open, sending a gust of wind through the library.

    Fii whirled around, startled, as a large man dressed in black staggered through the entrance, clutching his stomach. Blood trickled from between his fingers, and he collapsed on the floor, groaning.

    "Goodness me!" Orion exclaimed, rising swiftly to his feet. "What happened to you?" He rushed over to help the wounded man, grabbing him by the shoulders and easing him upright. "Easy now. Try not to move so much."

    The injured man moaned painfully and clutched at his wound. "Someone stabbed me." He grunted through gritted teeth. "They took my creds...stole my truck." His breathing grew heavy, and his head drooped forward, hanging limp. "Help me." He begged weakly, his eyelids fluttering closed. "Please." With that, the man collapsed, his body going slack in Orion''s arms.

    Fii stared at the motionless figure, her heart pounding frantically. "Is he...?"

    Orion laid the stranger gently on the ground and pressed a finger against his neck, checking for a pulse. "Alive. But only just." He frowned. "Not sure for how much longer, though. Looks like he''s lost a lot of blood already..."

    Fii stood frozen, unsure of what to do. Should she help? Could she help? She glanced around frantically, searching for something, anything, to staunch the flow. Her gaze landed on a stack of cloth napkins stacked on a table near the entrance. "Here!" She shouted, scooping up the bundle and hurrying over. She snatched the topmost napkin and hurried over to the bleeding man, tearing it into strips with her bare hands. Orion snatched the fabric and wrapped the makeshift bandages around the man''s midsection.

    "Go get the medkit! It''s behind the counter," Orion commanded. "There should be some gauze and medical tape."

    Fii raced to the back of the room, frantically searching for the item in question. "Where is it?!"

    "The metal box. On the shelf."

    Her hand collided with the cold metal surface and she yanked the case off the shelf, dropping it clumsily on the floor. It popped open, spilling its contents everywhere. Fii scrambled to gather the supplies, tossing various items aside haphazardly. "Found it!" She shouted, grasping the remaining contents in her arms and racing back to where Orion crouched beside the fallen man.

    She dropped to her knees and set the kit on the ground. Orion reached in, grabbed the remaining gauze, and quickly applied pressure to the gaping wound. "Hold this here. Make sure to keep the pressure on," he ordered as Fii followed his instructions, keeping steady as she held the bloodied cloth against the man''s torso. "Okay, remove the napkin. Use this to secure the dressing in place."

    Orion held out a roll of medical tape, which Fii hastily retrieved and began wrapping around the man''s abdomen. She did so as gingerly as she could, struggling to maintain a firm grip as her hands trembled with nerves. After several agonizing moments of applying pressure, she finally secured the final piece of tape, exhaling sharply. "That''s it?" she panted. "Did I do it right?"

    The elderly librarian wiped the sweat from his brow. "I think so. It should hold long enough to get him to one of the clinics, unless you know anyone with medical training?"

    "Yeah, I''m friends with the doctor from the Aether Clinic. I can get her here fast." Fii rose unsteadily to her feet, swaying slightly. "What do we do with him?"

    "Lay him over here." Orion replied, motioning towards an empty patch of floor nearby. "We need to keep his legs elevated to prevent any potential shock from setting in. Can you do that for me?"

    "Yep," Fii confirmed, moving to position herself under one of the injured man''s arms, while Orion gripped the other. They lifted him awkwardly and dragged the man onto the spot, resting his legs on a pile of books. "Like this?" Fii asked, hovering anxiously beside the unconscious figure.

    The librarian gave a curt nod, satisfied with the arrangement. "Now, go fetch your friend."

    Fii nodded and spun on her heel, bolting out the door as fast as she could, heading to the Aether Clinic.

    <hr>

    Edith stared blankly at the scene unfolding before her. She was still half-asleep and disoriented after being abruptly awakened by a frantic Fii barging into her bedroom and dragging her out of bed before proceeding to jump over the rooftops at a breakneck pace. She stumbled through the door, steadying herself on a nearby shelf.

    "You really couldn''t have waited until morning, Fii?" She grumbled, rubbing her eyes wearily. "This had better be good."

    But as soon as she caught sight of the bloody mess on the ground, her gaze sharpened. "What the hell?" She muttered, striding over and crouching down. She examined the unconscious man closely, taking in the bloodied makeshift bandages and the tattered remains of his shirt. "Who did this to him? And how?" She glanced up at Fii, who stood sheepishly beside her, wringing her hands. "And where the hell are we?"

    "The Gilded Library." An old man approached her, his wrinkles creased with worry. "Name''s Orion. We don''t have much in the way of medical supplies, but we did the best we could to stabilize the situation. Got him lying down with his legs elevated and all that. Sorry, I haven''t had to deal with this sort of situation in quite a while." He rubbed his head, sighing softly. "Hopefully, he''ll pull through."

    Edith eyed the old man skeptically before turning back to Fii. "Care to explain, Fii?"

    "He got stabbed, Edith. He said his truck got stolen too," Fii responded quickly. "I know you''re mad, but I had to bring you here as soon as possible, okay?"

    Edith shook her head incredulously. "You got me out of bed for a random stab victim?" She groaned and pinched the bridge of her nose, her patience wearing thin.

    Just because she ran a clinic didn''t mean she was a full-fledged surgeon. "Fine, Fii, fine. I''ll do what I can." She sighed, kneeling down next to the dying man and inspecting his wounds more carefully. "Let''s just hope he doesn''t die while I''m patching him up."

    Edith started working on the wounded man, cleaning and disinfecting the wound the best she could, before doing her best to suture his laceration and stanch the bleeding. Fortunately, he''d stopped actively bleeding, so all she needed to do was close the wound and ensure the dressing stayed in place. Within an hour, she''d finished the task, and the man was stable but still unconscious.

    While Edith would prefer to transport him to Aether Clinic, she didn''t trust the local gangs to not interfere. This meant she''d have to watch him for another night, and if he made it through the following day, she could get him to the clinic.

    "Alright, he seems to be stable for now. We''ll need to watch him, but he''s lucky to be alive. For now, anyway," Edith explained to Orion and Fii.

    Her eyes drifted to the clothes the victim had worn, stained in his blood. A logo emblazoned on the uniform caught her eye. Something she recognized.

    Oh shit...

    "Fii, get Virgil here, pronto." She ordered, picking up the shredded outfit. "I need you and him to track down that truck."

    Fii furrowed her brow in confusion. "Why?"

    Edith lifted the garment for her to examine. "Because that truck is carrying the components I need for my lab, including the ones for your helmet.¡±

 Chapter 20: Taking Back What Was Stolen

    In the middle of a dingy warehouse, a small gathering of masked individuals conversed quietly amongst themselves. Their leader, clad in black leather with a balaclava concealing his features, surveyed his team''s haul: A truck full of precious cargo.

    "Heh. Got a full basket today. Look at all that merchandise. Must''ve been worth a fortune," One member, a skinny individual with a knife scar on his chin, whistled appreciatively as he peered into the shipping crate. "Any idea where we should fence them?"

    Another, a stocky woman wearing a blue beanie, scoffed. "Probably auction them off. Might net us a decent return."

    The leader of the gang, Vitaly, a hulking man with a thick bushy beard and dark sunglasses, spoke up. "We''re not sellin'' jack, boys. These puppies are staying with us. Word on the street says these parts are essential for making new gear, and since nobody can find no others, I reckon we should cash in big time."

    He grinned wickedly. "Imagine all the sweet upgrades and toys we can whip up with this kinda kit. We''ll be the most feared gang in the slums, and they''ll bow to us and kiss our asses before begging for mercy." He patted his holster proudly. "One step closer to my dream of becoming the next Backfire."

    Vitaly pulled out his pistol and twirled the weapon with deft finesse. "Get a move on, idiots, let''s not waste daylight." The rest of the gang nodded obediently, immediately returning to work unloading the truck. They knew better than to argue when their boss was in one of his moods. If they dared, they''d have a bullet in them faster than they could blink.

    As they transferred the valuable equipment to a waiting trailer, another masked member tapped the leader on the shoulder. "Boss, someone''s outside."

    "Huh?" Vitaly cocked his head in puzzlement. "We''re expecting company?"

    "Not sure, boss, I''m not getting any transmissions from the loomers." The subordinate replied nervously, fidgeting in place. "What do you want me to do, boss?"

    Vitaly clicked his tongue impatiently. "Fine. Let''s take a look."

    He marched to the window, cracking open the shutters and peeking through the gap. Outside, he spotted a lone figure standing in front of the warehouse.

    The man was tall and lean, with a narrow face and piercing hazel eyes. He wore a worn trench coat that hung loosely on his frame, and his brown hair was slicked back. He rested one hand casually on the hilt of his holster, the other clutching a cigarette that burned steadily at his side. He stood there, unmoving, his gaze locked on the building.

    Vitaly could tell he was trouble by the way he carried himself: confident and poised, as if he were waiting for something. "Who the fuck is that?" he snarled, glaring at his subordinate. "I don''t recognize him."

    "Dunno, boss," the lackey answered fearfully. "I ain''t seen him before. Should we send someone to rough him up?"

    The man took a long drag on his cigarette and exhaled slowly, flicking the ash to the ground. Then, he started walking towards the warehouse, his stride measured and deliberate.

    "No, no, no," Vitaly hissed, his expression contorting in rage. "That''s it. Fuck this shit."

    He stomped towards the entrance, yanking out his weapon and cocking it aggressively. "You! Brighter than a busted bulb aren''t ya?! Whoever the fuck you are, we''re having a little misunderstanding here. See, this here is private property, and we ain''t accepting any visitors. So why don''t you take your scrawny ass and get the hell outta here, before I put a bullet through that skull of yours?"

    He jabbed the gun barrel threateningly in the air as he yelled. "And make it snappy, punk, before I blow your brains out!"

    The man stopped a few meters away, his eyes fixed directly ahead. He flicked his cigarette away dismissively and narrowed his eyes, his lip curling upward in a contemptuous sneer. "You can put the gun down, friend. I''m not here to cause any trouble. Just here for the truck and its cargo."

    "Yeah?" Vitaly snorted. "Too bad you''re not taking neither." He aimed the pistol directly at the man''s forehead, his finger hovering over the trigger. "You''ll be leaving with an empty hole in your noggin, instead."

    <hr>

    Fii dropped down from above, landing directly behind Vitaly. She grabbed him by the waist and flung him to the ground. He crashed with a thud, his face smashing against the concrete. His pistol skidded away, and he lay still for a moment.

    As he struggled to get back on his feet, Fii leaped in front of him, delivering a swift kick to his chest. He doubled over, wheezing, and slumped against a nearby wall.

    Fii smirked under her makeshift mask, a red bandana covering her lower face. She wore a black cap and had her hood drawn up as well, obscuring her features. She shifted into a combat stance, her fists raised defensively in front of her, prepared to strike again at any sudden movements.

    She glanced at Virgil, who''d walked calmly past the beaten gang leader, who was now propping himself up with trembling arms. He tipped his hat with a wink. "Much obliged, Ms. Axion."

    "I took care of the lookouts so there shouldn''t be any reinforcements coming. At least, not right away," Fii commented as Virgil approached the entrance to the building.

    The rest of the gang members had taken cover behind crates and barrels, pointing their pipe guns in his direction. As Virgil neared, the nervous men opened fire, scattering bullets in his general vicinity.

    Fii didn''t think, she moved.

    She dashed in front of Virgil, thrusting out her arms. She imagined her gravity field becoming a dense vortex in the path of the speeding bullets. The air between her and the oncoming bullets shimmered, as if heat rose from pavement on a summer day. A faint ripple distorted the graffiti on the wall behind her, bending the vibrant colors into a surreal canvas.

    The bullets veered off course, harmlessly embedding themselves into the concrete floor and the nearby walls.

    Virgil moved away from her, his face wincing as if in pain. "Hey, mind your distance, girl! You''re giving me vertigo when you do that so close to me," he said with a sour grimace.

    "Sorry!"

    Right, forgot about that. Causing enough gravitational disturbance to veer bullets away could affect other things around me too. Dunno exactly how much, but it''s enough to bother Virgil, apparently. Good to know.

    The gang members stared at her with wide eyes, dumbfounded by her display of power. "Wha¡ªwhat the hell?!" One of them sputtered, gawking at the feat.

    Virgil continued sauntering through the hail of lead, unfazed by the barrage of gunfire. "Take care of ''em. I''ll go get the truck and cargo."

    "On it." Fii sprung into action, diving forward and rolling smoothly to her feet. She ran toward the nearest gang member, her steps light and agile. She dodged a clumsy swing from the man''s pipe rifle, effortlessly swerving around his outstretched arm.

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    Before he could react, she drove her elbow into the underside of his jaw, sending him crumpling to the ground. She whipped around, twisting her body into a spinning kick that sent another gang member flying. She landed gracefully, her gaze darting around the room for her next target.

    No gravity-assisted strikes this time. Virgil said that I didn''t need it to take out a bunch of common thugs, just my strength as a metahuman was enough.

    Fii scanned the scene, her eyes locking on a cluster of gang members huddled behind a stack of wooden pallets. They stared at her warily, their weapons raised. She burst into a sprint, the gravity field around her lightening her steps as she raced across the floor.

    One of them fired his pistol wildly, his bullets missing Fii by centimeters.

    She leaped over a discarded trash can, somersaulting in midair, and landed on her feet on the other side. Launching herself into the air once more, she vaulted over the surprised group and slammed into them, bowling them over like tenpins. She skidded to a halt, dusting herself off nonchalantly.

    Wow, so much easier now compared to last time. Guess all that training is really paying off.

    Two of the gang members rose shakily to their feet, brandishing knives. "We ain''t gonna let you take us easy, freak!" one shouted, lunging at Fii. She sidestepped the attack, knocking his blade aside with a quick jab, and countered with a punch to the gut. He crumpled instantly, falling face-first onto the floor.

    She wanted to say a comeback as she kicked his knife away, but she stopped herself, remembering that she didn''t have her helmet to mask her voice.

    The other attacker charged at her, screaming. Fii ducked under his wild slash, twisting her body around and planting her foot squarely into his chest. He was launched back, slamming into a stack of pallets and collapsing to the ground. He didn''t get back up.

    Behind her, another member attempted to sneak up and stab her while she was preoccupied. "Die, bitch!" He growled, plunging his knife downwards. However, just before he made contact, Fii increased the gravity around herself, causing the man to stagger as his momentum was thrown off. He toppled to the ground, his blade clattering to the floor.

    Seeing as he was the last one standing out of the bunch, Fii turned her attention to him, grinning mischievously beneath her makeshift mask. She pounced, leaping through the air and tackling him to the ground. She straddled him, her weight pressing on his back, as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

    She squeezed hard, constricting his throat and cutting off the blood supply to his brain. The man thrashed and squirmed, trying desperately to escape, but Fii held on firmly. After a few seconds, he went limp, his body slumping to the floor.

    Finally¡­after so many times Virgil had done that move on her, it was a little cathartic to try it on someone else.

    Fii rose to her feet, surveying the damage around her. She''d successfully incapacitated every gang member in sight. She dusted off her jacket and brushed a strand of white hair out of her eye.

    She spotted Virgil waving to her from inside the truck, giving her a thumbs-up. He pointed to the exit and revved the engine, signaling her to get on the back. With a curt nod, Fii hopped onto the vehicle as he hit the gas, speeding through the opening doors and out into the slums.

    "We''re getting a tail," Virgil stated over his shoulder as Fii spotted a moped behind them, trailing close behind. Vitaly was driving the small vehicle with another lackey riding shotgun. "Can you get rid of them?"

    "They''re too far away...unless you want me to hop off and jump them."

    "Nah, nevermind. I got it."

    Virgil removed his hand from the steering wheel and reached back to grab his revolver from his hip holster. Without looking back, he pointed it over his shoulder and fired three shots. The first missed, but the second and third struck the bike''s front tire. With the rubber blown, the vehicle veered off-course, crashing into a rusted dumpster and sending the pair of gangsters hurtling through the air. Both landed hard on the concrete, skidding across the rough surface.

    "Nice shot."

    Virgil didn''t respond. He simply returned his focus to driving.

    <hr>

    At the Aether Clinic, Edith finished cleaning and disinfecting the knife wound of the wounded truck driver, who remained unconscious. Thankfully, there weren''t any major internal injuries. The man would recover, though he''d be in a great deal of pain once he woke up.

    Still, Edith decided to monitor him in the clinic just in case. She checked the IV drip in his arm and adjusted the flow rate. She noticed the driver stir a little.

    "If you want to sleep more, I can sedate you. Though, I''m certain you have plenty of questions for me, Mr..." Edith inquired, pulling out a penlight from her lab coat''s pocket. "I never got your name."

    The man slowly opened his eyes, groaning as he tried to sit up. "Name''s Rex, Doc. You saved me. How long was I out? How''d you find me?"

    "Not too long," Edith responded as she shined the penlight into his eyes and checked his pupils for response. "How do you feel, Rex?"

    "Like shit, Doc." Rex rubbed his forehead, wincing as he touched the bandage covering his injury. "Guess that''s to be expected." He grimaced as he tried to adjust himself on the hospital bed. "My truck...?"

    A knock on the doorframe drew her attention. Edith looked up to see Virgil and Fii standing in the doorway.

    "Your truck is safe, along with your cargo," Virgil replied. "The gang who stole it are now licking their wounds. Though, if I know those lowlifes, they''ll be back on the streets as soon as their bones heal." He stepped through the threshold, removing his Stetson as he approached. "Mind if I come in? Got some follow-ups."

    Edith waved him in. "Be my guest. I just finished examining Rex here. No other serious injuries so far. He''ll live, thankfully."

    "That''s good to hear," Virgil noted. He took a seat at the foot of the bed and crossed one leg over the other.

    As Virgil began asking his series of questions, Edith left the room and closed the door.

    Fii followed her out and to the alley where the recovered truck was parked. The back was wide open, revealing its precious cargo. Edith grinned gleefully as she took in the sight, a massive shipment of equipment, machinery, and rare materials for her experiments.

    "Is that what you were waiting for?" Fii asked, poking her head out from behind Edith''s shoulder. "Seems like a lot."

    "Only a few of these are for me, the rest of it is probably going to the Rust Market or Forge Town, but yeah. It''s perfect. Almost everything I need to fix your new helmet is here, plus some extra parts for another project."

    Fii tilted her head curiously. "What''s this other project you''re talking about?"

    Edith snapped her fingers. "Sorry, can''t say just yet, but this is big stuff, trust me. Anyways, how did it go?"

    Fii rolled her shoulders, letting out a sigh of relief. "Honestly? It went surprisingly well. Didn''t think I''d take down a whole gang so easily." She chuckled, shaking her head. "It seemed almost unfair; like I was beating up kids on the playground."

    "Well, considering you have superhuman powers and they have none, that''s not surprising," Edith remarked, giving Fii a wry smirk. "I guess all that training is paying off."

    "Definitely." Fii stretched her arms overhead and cracked her knuckles loudly. "So, what should we do with all this stuff?" She gestured to the contents of the truck. "Just leave it here until we unpack it or bring it to Forge Town and the Rust Market?"

    Edith rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Virgil can probably deliver it to the respective places, though, I suppose I should ask him and make sure he doesn''t try to steal anything for himself." She paused, placing a hand gently on the younger girl''s shoulder. "Regardless, well done today, Fii."

    Fii blinked in surprise, taken aback by the unexpected praise. "Um, thanks."

    Edith nodded, withdrawing her touch. "You''ve been progressing so much over the past few months. It''s really quite impressive. I mean, you went from a snot-nosed, illiterate, bratty street rat to, well, this." She gave Fii a quick once-over, arching an eyebrow approvingly. "And, yes, that is a compliment."

    Fii flushed a bright crimson, scratching her cheek sheepishly. "Heh, well, thank you. It was all, um, thanks to you and Virgil." Her blush deepened, her cheeks turning tomato-red as she averted her gaze from Edith''s intense stare. "A-and, uh, Sheri too."

    The corner of Edith''s mouth tugged upwards as she watched the younger girl squirm uncomfortably. "Anyway, let''s get this all sorted out." She turned her back on Fii, moving towards the truck and beginning to organize its contents.

    "Right!" Fii chimed in, helping her unload the items.

    Edith kept her gaze focused on her work, but in her periphery, she could tell Fii was still flustered, and she couldn''t help but chuckle internally. The girl''s innocence was endearing in a strange way. Maybe she should give her more compliments in the future, perhaps with less teasing attached.

    <hr>

 Chapter 21: Day Patrol

    Dawn cracked like a whip over the slums, a streak of orange bleeding into the gray. It wasn''t pretty, but it was a start. Axion watched from her perch, crouched on the edge of a dilapidated billboard that displayed a faded advertisement for some product she didn''t recognize.

    She''d scaled the metal framework of the old sign, using her gravity field to tune her center of mass as she balanced precariously atop the thin crossbeam¡ªa gargoyle in a bodysuit, her eyes hidden behind the visor of her helmet.

    The slums never slept, not really¡ªjust dozed in fits and starts. Even now, as the first weak rays of sunlight tried to pierce the smog, the alleys teemed with life. Stalls clattered open, the scent of frying synthies wafting up, mingling with the stench of uncollected trash. Hawkers shouted the day''s bargains, their voices raw. Kids darted between the stalls, chasing each other with sticks or stones, laughing shrilly. And the Skimmers, the thieves, the hard-luck cases¡ªthey all spun their wheels, trapped in the grind.

    Axion''s helmet cycled through filters, the HUD displaying various visual ranges and data from heat signatures to sound profiles. Edith had given her a rundown on most of the functions, but there were still a few things she hadn''t figured out.

    She didn''t really need the tech, not with the rooftop wisdom and keen senses she''d picked up over years in the slums, but she liked playing around with the fancy toys anyway.

    Swinging her legs, Axion crouched low, coiling up her body before launching skyward, her gravity field reducing her weight to feather-light. She soared in the air. The world inverted as she flew over the streets below. As she crested the apex of her jump, she deactivated the field and fell, plummeting rapidly to the ground.

    In the split second before impact, she activated her power again, canceling her downward acceleration and landing in a crouch atop a dumpster in the alley. Her boots slipped, and she tumbled gracelessly over the edge, landing flat on her back with a heavy thud.

    "Ow," she grunted, blinking dizzily.

    She stared up at the sky, watching as birds flew in a formation, chirping and shrieking. She raised her hand, weakly, and waggled her fingers, mimicking their flight path. "Flying sucks," she mumbled, closing her eyes and sighing heavily. "Better stick to the ground..."

    Axion sat up slowly, rubbing her sore butt. She climbed to her feet and brushed herself off, embarrassed at her clumsy display. She didn''t normally screw up landings like that. What had happened? The wind must have caught her, or something. Yeah, that was it. The wind. That had to be it. She shook her head, clearing the cobwebs. Focus, Fii¡ªI mean Axion.

    She leapt over the fence behind her and continued running through the winding streets and alleys. The crowds parted like waves around her as she cut through the slums, weaving around pedestrians and scrambling carts. She turned sharply, leaping over a small creek, and scrambled up a stack of boxes piled against a brick wall. From there, she launched herself to the rooftops again, using her power to keep herself airborne for as long as possible.

    From high above, the slums were a blurry kaleidoscope of color and motion. The towering skyscrapers of the metropolis loomed in the distance, casting a perpetual shadow over the slums.

    To the west, the mountains and cliffs stretched towards the horizon, their peaks disappearing into the haze. To the east and south, the desert sprawled for kilometers, a vast expanse of barren rock and sand. To the north, stood the Wall: A massive barrier separating the slums from the metropolis.

    Taller than most buildings and constructed from solid concrete and steel, the Wall served as both a physical barrier and a symbolic line in the sand: One side, luxury, prosperity; the other, poverty, chaos.

    Most slum dwellers avoided the Wall, not wanting to draw attention to themselves. If they were caught near the border, they''d be arrested and probably beaten for good measure. Of course, that didn''t stop everyone. There were those brave (or foolish) enough to venture close, either for work, trade, or whatever else they needed that they couldn''t get elsewhere. And sometimes, those people never came back.

    Axion landed on another rooftop, tucking into a roll as she skidded to a halt. She rose to her feet and glanced around, her gaze sweeping the area. She spotted a handful of vagrants huddled around a trash bin, warming themselves by the flames. Several children chased one another, tossing rocks and sticks at stray animals.

    A shout rose above the din, drawing Axion''s attention to a street vendor corned by a pair of thugs. She zeroed in, the optics in her mask zooming in on the altercation. The hawker was an elderly woman, barely more than skin and bones, her wrinkled face and stooped back speaking of a hard life in the slums. In her shaky hands, she clutched a battered, wooden box filled with shriveled apples, bruised and blemished, yet still precious in these parts.

    One of the thugs, a man with a buzz cut and crooked nose, snatched an apple from the stand and took an exaggerated bite from the fruit. He grinned maliciously, showing off his missing teeth. "Not the freshest catch, eh, Momo? I''ve eaten moldier stuff."

    The man''s partner, a woman with a scar stretching from the bridge of her nose to her temple, sneered. "Not sure why we even bother feeding such scraps to the dogs."

    Buzz Cut tossed the core of the apple aside and reached for the wooden container.

    Without thinking, Axion dove from her perch, the gravity field cocooning her body slowing her descent as she plummeted between the two thugs, kicking up a cloud of dust as she landed in front of the old hawker.

    "Leave her alone," Axion ordered, staring at the thugs coldly. She placed a protective arm between the old lady and the other two.

    Momo''s eyes widened in recognition, and she raised an eyebrow. "Well, if it isn''t the lil'' hero herself. Fancy meetin'' ya out here, kid." She chuckled, leaning against her companion. "Don''t remember axin'' for protection, though."

    "Consider it a courtesy call, then." Axion held the woman''s gaze, unflinching. "Pay for the apple and back off, or I''ll make you."

    The thugs laughed heartily, Buzz Cut wiping tears from his eyes as he chortled. "Lookit the spunk on this one, Momo." He slapped his thigh, guffawing. "Make me? Well, why don''tcha?" He challenged, puffing his chest out proudly.

    "Fine," Axion answered calmly. She walked towards the duo, stopping a step between them. "But you asked for it."

    In the blink of an eye, Axion manipulated the gravity around her body, directing them towards the thugs. She increased the gravitational force surrounding the two, amplifying its intensity fivefold.

    Like a marionette with its strings cut, both thugs collapsed to the ground, their bodies pressed tightly against the cement. They struggled feebly, their limbs pinned to the ground, unable to move. They gasped and sputtered, their faces contorted with panic.

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    She crouched beside them, gazing down at their distorted faces.

    "Now, I''m gonna give you one chance to do the right thing," Axion warned, her tone hard. "You''re going to pay for your ate, and then you''re going to leave before I get any more annoyed."

    She straightened, adjusting her stance. "And if you ever come near this nice lady again, you won''t get off so easy. Understand?"

    The thugs nodded frantically, their eyes bulging in their sockets. "Yes, ma''am! We''ll do whatever you say, ma''am!" Buzz Cut whimpered, his voice barely audible. "Please, please, just let us go!"

    Axion released the gravitational hold she''d established and the two thugs clambered unsteadily to their feet. They fumbled to produce Tinks from their pockets, dumping a small pile of coins in the dirt at her feet. Their hands trembled violently as they snatched up their hats and hurriedly scurried away.

    The old hawker stared at Axion with awe, clutching her box of fruits tightly.

    Axion bent down and retrieved the pile of coins, dusting them off and depositing them in the woman''s hand. "Keep the change, ma''am. You earned it."

    With that, she dashed away, leaping over the rooftops, leaving the old hawker speechless and bewildered.

    Just in case the duo decided to cause any trouble for the woman, Axion swung back around and followed them from above, keeping them within earshot as they rushed through the maze of streets. They exchanged fearful glances with each other as they fled, whispering under their breaths.

    Her helmet''s audio filters enhanced their voices, enabling her to pick up what they were saying.

    "Damn, did you see her eyes, Momo? She was glowing!"

    "That chick had freaky-ass powers, man. Reminds me of those Supers..."

    "Did you hear her, though? Talkin'' tough and all, acting like she owned this place."

    "We''re lucky to be alive, dude! Let''s just keep quiet for a bit, okay? We gotta lay low, man, otherwise she''ll hunt us down."

    "Fuck! Didn''t think she was actually a real Super..."

    Their words trailed off as the pair vanished out of her sightline, swallowed up by the crowd.

    Axion halted on top of a crumbling roof and smiled, satisfied that they''d learned their lesson. She leaned back, stretching lazily.

    Except for the failed landing earlier, today was already shaping up to be a good day: she''d helped out someone in need, scared off a couple of crooks, and most importantly, she''d made a difference. It might seem insignificant, but in the slums, every little act mattered.

    With a spring in her step, Axion leaped to another building and resumed her patrol, scanning the streets below. She stayed high, jumping between buildings to avoid unnecessary interactions with the locals. She didn''t mind chatting or hanging out with folks, but today, she wanted to be on the move.

    <hr>

    Overhead, the sun had risen to its zenith, its pale light filtered through the veil of smog and haze. The temperature was rising steadily, and the humidity clung to the air, making everything sticky and uncomfortable.

    Even though the fabric of her bodysuit was designed to be breathable and insulating, it still stuck to her skin, damp with sweat. She paused on a rooftop, fanning herself.

    Like that did anything. I wish I had something to drink, at least. All this patrolling is making me thirsty...

    She continued on, jumping over the gap between a pair of crumbling apartments and landing gracefully on a rusty fire escape. She hopped down the stairs, balancing on the railing, before hopping to the ground. She ambled across the narrow alley, navigating the piles of trash and debris.

    A ball bounced off a wall, rolling to a stop at Axion''s feet. She picked it up, the rubber worn and dirty, the stitching loose and frayed. Children peered from behind a rusted dumpster, eyeing the ball. She gave them a little wave, and a child with a tattered cap ran over and snatched the ball from her hands. The others quickly scampered away.

    She watched them go, smiling sadly. "Bye."

    As Axion made her way through the neighborhood, a scuffle broke out across the street: a pair of drunks brawling, swaying unsteadily, fists flying, spittle flying, shouts echoing down the alleyway. One landed a solid punch, knocking the other off his feet. The winner staggered off, humming happily, while the loser groaned and curled into a ball, clutching his jaw.

    Fights like those happened all the time in the slums, even when people weren''t drunk. Some fights were justified; some were stupid; and some were just for fun. It probably wasn''t something she should intervene in, especially since there was no clear-cut good guy or bad guy. Sometimes, in the slums, the best policy was to let sleeping dogs lie.

    If they escalated, and it looked like someone was going to die, though, would she be able to turn a blind eye? Probably not, and that was a problem. Her job as Axion wasn''t to settle disputes or quell unrest, not directly anyway. It was to help those in need and to provide hope. Yet, there was only so much she could do, and eventually, she had to walk away. That fact frustrated her.

    Maybe one day she''d have the power and influence to make a real change, but for now, she could only do the best with what she had.

    The day wore on, and Axion continued her patrol, helping out wherever she could. She lifted a crate of goods from a struggling stall, carrying it to the vendor''s cart. She fetched a runaway goat, returning it to its owner, and she assisted in pulling a woman''s cart out of the mud, earning herself a grateful smile and a piece of candy. She helped a young boy find his lost dog, carrying him on her shoulders while she searched for the animal.

    There were smaller things too¡ªthings that might not seem important but that added up, small gestures that meant the world to the people she aided. A shared joke, a friendly word, a comforting gesture¡ªthe smallest kindnesses often meant the most.

    Eventually, the sun began to set, its rays peeking over the horizon, the smog painted blood-red, bathing the slums in a hellish light. By now, the streets were empty, and the shops and stands were shuttered. Only the stray cats and dogs wandered aimlessly, foraging for food in the trash.

    As nightfall approached, the vibe in the slums changed.

    Gangs were active during the day, but at night, they tended to amp up their operations. There was more noise, more violence, and more danger.

    A different kind of crowd roamed the streets at night in the slums, with their own unique tastes and habits. These people were drawn to the neon lights and the raucous energy of the slums¡ªa haven for those who wanted to lose themselves in the chaos. They reveled in the opportunity to shed their inhibitions and let loose, to get wild and crazy and reckless.

    In the Neon Alley, the neon signs shone brightly, illuminating the street with a surreal glow. Here, the nightlife thrived, the hustle and bustle of the daytime replaced with the decadence of the night.

    Vendors sold exotic drinks and drugs, plying their wares to those seeking a good time. Customers spilled out of clubs and bars, dancing and gyrating on the sidewalk, their bodies writhing in a state of ecstasy. Street performers, acrobats, and entertainers plying their craft, sought to earn a few extra Tinks from the crowd.

    Nearby, the Neon Night Market operated in full swing, with stalls selling everything from knockoff designer clothing to counterfeit tech and accessories.

    People shouted, danced, and ran around, all under the cover of darkness and neon lights. The night was theirs, and they were determined to make the most of it.

    She had only gone to the Neon Alley and Night Market a handful of times as an acrobat to earn some Tinks on days when she didn''t get any odd jobs, and usually, she worked alongside a crew that included kids her age. She loved seeing all the sights, sounds, smells, and colors, but the nighttime energy always made her nervous.

    That''s because the nightlife brought out the worst in the slums, as well as the best. And being out alone made her vulnerable.

    As she glanced around the crowded street, she saw a few gangs prowling, surveying the crowd with predatory intent. Pimps and traffickers also eyed the unwary, hoping to find their next victims. Druggies and junkies huddled together, exchanging ChitCreds and goods, looking to score their next fix.

    And of course, the usual pickpockets and Skimmers moved freely among the throng, preying on the unsuspecting and the intoxicated. They worked in pairs or small groups, looking to take advantage of anyone who appeared out of place or unguarded.

    Axion scanned the crowd, her visor flashing through multiple vision modes as she surveyed the scene.

    While the daytime patrols were satisfying, night patrols always felt more tense and unpredictable.

    She wasn''t on the lookout to help folks or solve problems. She was on the hunt.

 Chapter 22: Nightwatch

    Night patrols as Axion involved a lot of lurking around in dark corners, waiting for something interesting to happen. She always started her patrol in the same spot, the rooftop of an abandoned building overlooking the Neon Alley and the market. She perched on the edge of the roof, watching the bustling crowd below.

    There were many times that she wished she could be out there, part of the crowd, enjoying the festivities. But as Axion, she couldn''t. She was here to look out for trouble, and that''s what she needed to focus on.

    <Anything happen yet?> Edith''s voice crackled through the comm system in Axion''s helmet. She sounded like she just woke up, probably after sleeping all day.

    "Nope, just more people puking and shouting. Someone threw a bottle at a street performer." Axion watched as a man stumbled out of a bar, doubled over as he hurled his guts out. "Isn''t the camera in my helmet enough? You can see what I''m seeing now, right? Why do you need me to report what''s happening?"

    <I haven''t connected to the live feed yet, just give me a minute.>

    There was a moment of silence as Edith yawned, muttering to herself.

    <Alright, I''m in. Yup, I can see what you''re seeing. You''ve got a great view.>

    "Sure, I guess." Axion leaned forward, resting her chin on her knee. She watched as a group of drunken revelers burst into hysterical laughter, doubling over and clutching their stomachs. "It''s kinda boring, though. Nobody''s doing anything too bad, other than being obnoxious. Just a typical night in the slums." She sighed, glancing around the area.

    A woman shrieked in alarm, and Axion jumped to her feet, peering over the ledge. A trio of thugs, sporting matching blue bandanas and red sashes, had cornered a lone woman, grabbing at her suggestively. A small crowd gathered around, cheering and whistling. The woman struggled and attempted to flee, but the men held her in place.

    Without hesitation, Axion launched herself over the side of the building, activating her gravitonic field midair to cushion her fall. She hit the ground running, sprinting toward the group. The crowd parted for her, startled by her sudden appearance.

    "Hey! Leave her alone!" she shouted, her voice amplified by the helmet''s audio processor.

    The woman managed to free herself from the men''s grasp and scrambled to safety. Axion skidded to a stop, assuming a defensive stance as the gang members turned their attention to her. One of the men, sporting a thick, bushy beard and wearing an eyepatch, stepped forward, sneering.

    "Who da fuck''re you s''pose to be?" he slurred, his breath reeking of alcohol.

    The other two thugs, who seemed more sober, looked at each other uneasily. "Yo, man, is that the freak we''ve been hearing about?" one of them hissed. "The one who beat up that gang last week?"

    "Dunno," the bearded thug growled. "Might be, but I ain''t ''fraid of no damn freak!" He pulled a pistol from his waistband, taking aim at Axion''s head.

    "Are you stupid?! She''s a fucking Super, you dumbass!" the other thug yelped.

    "Shut yer mouth!" Beardie snarled, spittle flying from his lips. "I said I ain''t afraid''a no damn freak!" His finger tightened on the trigger as he fired off a round.

    She had more than enough time to react. With a thought, she increased her gravity field, deflecting the bullet''s trajectory. It ricocheted harmlessly into the ground. Axion advanced, the gravitons swirling around her body.

    Beardie kept firing wildly, the bullets all veering off-course. One of his comrades shoved him aside and raised his pistol, aiming at Axion. "Fuck it! Let''s take her out, boys!" he cried, cocking the hammer back.

    Before he could pull the trigger, her fist collided with the thug''s cheek, sending him crashing into the ground. She spun around, delivering a powerful kick to the second gangster''s gut. He crumpled to the ground, wheezing in agony.

    The crowd scattered, fleeing in terror. Beardie stood frozen, his gun clattering to the ground as he backed away from her, shaking visibly. Axion grabbed the collar of his jacket, lifting him into the air with ease.

    "Listen up," she whispered, her voice low and cold. "I don''t want to hurt you. Go back home, get some sleep, and try to do better with yourself. But if you come back here again and harass people, I won''t show you mercy."

    He nodded shakily, his legs dangling in the air. With a quick shove, Axion released her hold on him, sending the gangster tumbling to the ground. He scrambled to his feet, darting away, followed by his two accomplices. The three gangsters disappeared into the shadows, their footsteps fading.

    "That''s better," Axion muttered, turning to the woman whom the thugs had accosted. "Are you alright?"

    The woman stared back, wide-eyed, before nodding nervously. "Yeah...yes, I''m fine." She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "Thank you."

    "Just stay safe, alright?" Axion replied with a thumbs-up.

    The woman nodded again, backing away hesitantly before turning and fleeing. The street performer, who''d been hiding behind a post, emerged and began applauding vigorously, startling Axion. The rest of the crowd, who''d been watching from a distance, gradually approached. Before long, everyone was cheering.

    Axion raised her hand and waved sheepishly. She couldn''t help but grin widely underneath her helmet. The LED eyes on her visor narrowed into downturned crescent moons, imitating her expression. While she disliked the attention, it felt good to know she was appreciated.

    After a moment, Edith''s voice echoed through Axion''s comm. <Good work, Axion. Seems you handled those idiots nicely.> She yawned. <For a minute there, I thought they were going to piss themselves.>

    "Thanks," Axion mumbled, giving the crowd a quick wave before stepping into an alley. She sprinted down the narrow passageway, scaling a chain-link fence with ease. She flipped over the top and landed neatly on the other side.

    She continued through the alleys and passages, avoiding the main thoroughfares. After a while, Edith''s voice chimed in through her helmet''s comm. <Have you found anything else? Other than a few stray cats and dogs, that is.>

    "No, not really," Axion responded, her gaze sweeping over the desolate streets. "It''s been pretty quiet lately." She ducked under a low-hanging sign, dodging a pair of rats scampering across the pavement. "Other than those guys from earlier, nothing major."

    Edith let out a weary sigh. <Well, keep me posted, then. If anything comes up, let me know.> She paused for a brief moment. <How are you holding up, by the way? Your vitals look steady, but it must be exhausting, patrolling for hours at a stretch.>

    Axion shrugged. "I''m doing okay. Still feels kind of weird only needing a few hours of sleep a night. Can''t complain, though. More time to patrol and help people."

    Edith hummed in agreement. <It''s a useful side-effect of having a metahuman physiology. Glad you''re managing so far.> She stifled another yawn. <All right, let me know if anything comes up. I''ll be monitoring your feed, as always. Good luck, Axion.>

    With that, the comm link went silent, leaving Axion alone once more. She let out a long exhale, her shoulders slumping.

    She wasn''t tired, not physically. She did feel drained, though, and she couldn''t tell if it was because of the monotony of her patrols or the emotional toll they took on her. She hadn''t really considered it until now, but she''d seen a lot of terrible things throughout her life, but dealing with them as Axion left a more lasting impact.

    Maybe it was because she couldn''t interact with people normally anymore, not when she was dressed like a vigilante and carrying a lot of firepower. When she wasn''t wearing her helmet, she was just another slum dweller trying to get by, and when she was on patrol, she wasn''t a person¡ªshe was a symbol, something larger than herself.

    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    At least, that''s what Virgil kept telling her. As frustrating as his training had been, she did appreciate his efforts to drill some sense into her. He had told her to¡ªwhat was the word again?¡ªcompartmentalize; to separate the girl from the hero. In one compartment, she was Fii, and in the other, she was Axion.

    Honestly, she hadn''t really grasped what he meant by that yet. Maybe it would be clearer in time, but right now, she had to focus on making sure nobody got killed in front of her. While the slums might have their problems, there were a lot of good people trying to survive. But the reality was, people often had to fend for themselves.

    That''s where she came in.

    She just hoped she wouldn''t let anybody down.

    <hr>

    After a few hours of patrolling, Axion finally stopped to rest on a fire escape, letting her feet dangle over the edge. It wasn''t exactly the most comfortable seat in the world, but she wasn''t planning to stay long, anyway. The wind ruffled her jacket as she sat silently, gazing over the slums.

    The streets below were relatively quiet now, the crowds and noise mostly dissipating. Occasionally, she caught glimpses of other figures moving through the alleys and side streets, either returning home for the night or looking for trouble. A few stragglers lingered, likely hoping to snare a mark for the evening, but most of the ne''er-do-wells had already scuttled back to their hidey-holes.

    Axion rubbed the back of her neck wearily, trying to release the tension that had accumulated in her muscles. As she stretched, her stomach grumbled loudly, reminding her that she''d skipped dinner in order to get to her patrol faster.

    "I should have packed some snacks..." she murmured, her mouth watering as she imagined the savory taste of some fried synth-chicken.

    A sound caught her attention, and she peered over the edge¡ªa scuffling in the alley below. A man wearing a dirty shirt and torn jeans stumbled through the shadows, his eyes glassy and unfocused. His skin was deathly pale, and his movements were jerky and unnatural.

    The man bumped into a trashcan, toppling it and spilling its contents across the ground. He staggered back, growling incoherently, waving his arms at the fallen garbage. A pair of rats scurried out, squeaking and hissing as they retreated.

    Axion watched as the man''s behavior grew increasingly erratic, his face twitching and contorting. He lunged at the rats, clawing at the air with his fingers curled into claws. After a moment, he slumped to the ground, groaning and babbling nonsensically.

    She climbed down from her perch, landing lightly in the alleyway. The man didn''t appear to notice her approach, his gaze fixed on the wall. She crouched beside him, gently prodding him with her fingertips.

    Just another drug addict, looks like.

    "Hey, you alright? You need any help?"

    The man flinched away from her touch, his eyes darting to meet hers. He mumbled a few unintelligible syllables, drool spilling from his lips. She tried again, reaching out and gripping his shoulder.

    Suddenly, he swung wildly, his fingers scraping against the smooth surface of her helmet.

    "Woah!" Axion exclaimed, easily deflecting the attack. "Easy there, buddy!" She pinned his wrist to the ground and planted her knee on his midsection, effectively restraining him. "Seriously, you need to chill out¡ª"

    Her words were cut off as the man opened his mouth and tried to bite her forearm. She jerked her arm back, narrowly avoiding his jaws. He thrashed under her grip, spittle flying from his lips as he shrieked furiously.

    What the hell? Was he actually trying to¡ª?

    She didn''t get to finish her thought as the man suddenly convulsed and vomited, quivering uncontrollably. He let out a ragged gasp, foamy, yellow-tinged fluid dripping from his mouth. His entire body twitched, and his eyes rolled back into his skull before he went limp, collapsing against the concrete.

    Axion released her hold and stood, staring down at the prone figure. She removed her glove and held her palm close to his nose, checking for any sign of breathing.

    Whew...still breathing.

    She pressed two fingers against the side of the man''s throat, feeling for a pulse. It was weak and rapid, thumping unevenly.

    Overdose? Could be.

    She glanced around, noting the spilled garbage, discarded syringes, and broken glass littering the alley. She spotted a used needle and examined the tip, noting a small amount of murky liquid residue inside.

    Yep. Definitely overdose. Though, his reactions didn''t seem normal for a typical drug addict...

    She had witnessed a bunch of overdoses in the slums, and while none had ever attacked people, the effects had been the same. The afflicted individuals were usually docile and subdued, not violent and aggressive.

    This guy needs help, badly.

    "Edith, you there? Just found this guy freaking out in the alley. He doesn''t look good, and his body is twitching and everything..."

    The comm in her helmet crackled to life. <Looks like he overdosed on something. I can''t tell much more from here. Get him to the clinic, fast!> Edith ordered sharply.

    Axion nodded, reaching out and scooping the man into her arms, cradling his convulsing body tightly against her chest. She closed her eyes, focusing on increasing the density of the gravitons surrounding them both. Then, with a leap, they shot upward, carried by an invisible force as they ascended through the air.

    The man''s eyelids fluttered, and for a moment, Axion thought she saw recognition in his gaze. But then it was gone, lost in another fit of convulsions.

    "Hang in there!" Axion whispered as she leapt across the rooftops, racing towards the clinic. "We''re almost there!"

    With every leap and bound, she applied her gravitonic abilities to boost her speed. Within minutes, they''d arrived, and Axion dashed through the back door, nearly barrelling into Virgil. He stepped aside, steadying himself against the doorframe, his eyes widening in surprise. "What''s wrong?!"

    "Overdose. Got here as fast as I could. Is Edith ready?" Axion spoke rapidly, her voice strained as she carried the young man into the examination room.

    "Nobody told me nothin'' about this until you showed up." Virgil hurried over to assist her, gently taking the man from her arms and placing him on the medical bed. "Calm down, kid, let''s see what the situation is."

    Edith rushed over, Sheri following close behind. "Outta my way," Edith snapped, pushing past Virgil. She snatched up her scanner from the counter, waving the device over the unconscious man''s body. "Dammit. I don''t recognize these stimulants in his system...must be a new cocktail. Sheri, grab a dose of Naloxone. Now!"

    Sheri hurried to fetch the drug, while Edith removed the man''s clothing, applying a series of electrodes to his bare chest and abdomen. The heart monitor beeped frantically as the screen displayed jagged, irregular lines.

    "Is he gonna be okay?" Axion asked anxiously. "What can I do to help?"

    "Keep his head to the side," Edith instructed, her voice steady as she prepared the IV line. "We don''t want him choking if he vomits."

    Sheri returned with the injection, passing it to Edith, who immediately administered it into his arm. "This should help stabilize him, but I don''t know how effective it''ll be. We''ll need to monitor him closely."

    Axion stepped back, hovering anxiously as Sheri and Edith continued working to stabilize the patient. Virgil, who''d been watching silently, placed a firm hand on her shoulder and motioned for her to follow him outside.

    She reluctantly followed, allowing the clinic doors to slide shut behind her.

    "How''d you find him?" Virgil asked, his tone curt. "Where''d you find him?"

    "In an alleyway. Near the intersection between Halo Avenue and 4th Street." She shifted uncomfortably, crossing her arms over her chest. "Why?"

    "Which gang''s territory does that overlap?"

    Axion frowned, tilting her head. "Um...Near the Neon Alley so...it''d be the Neon Vipers, or the Neon Knights. Both basically compete for the area."

    Virgil rubbed his chin and furrowed his brow. "What did you see or hear beforehand?"

    "I was taking a break when I heard him in the alley. Thought he was just another addict. But when I went to check, he went berserk on me and then started shaking and puking. I grabbed him and came straight here. Didn''t get a chance to ask any questions or find out what he was doing."

    "Did he have anything on him when you brought him in?" Virgil questioned, keeping his gaze fixed on Axion. "Any belongings?"

    "There''s a syringe on the floor of the alley I came from. Might be a clue, I guess."

    Virgil smacked Fii''s helmet lightly. "It''s not just a clue. It''s evidence. Go grab it and bring it back here. Now."

    Axion flinched at the light smack but nodded. "Okay. I''ll be right back."

    Axion quickly retrieved the small syringe from the alley and returned to the clinic, handing it over to Virgil. "Here it is. Do you think the Neon Vipers are up to something?" she inquired.

    Virgil took the vial and studied it carefully, his brows furrowing. "Too early to say. If it''s narcotics, there are only a few gangs who distribute. Most of ''em hang around the Night Market and the Neon Alley. Gonna hafta investigate this further." He turned to face her. "But you should get back on patrol. Edith''s gonna take care of this kid for a bit. He needs time to recover and detox. Go finish your route and I''ll update you tomorrow."

    Axion hesitated, uncertain whether to argue. There was no point, and she knew it. Virgil was the detective, not her. Whatever was going on with the gangs, she doubted she could do much. Not yet, anyway.

    "All right," she muttered, grudgingly agreeing. "If you find anything, will you let me know?"

    Virgil cracked a rare smile. "Sure, kid. Now scram. We got work to do." He gestured towards the exit with his chin.

    "Yes, sir." Axion nodded and trotted off, launching herself upwards and landing on the nearby rooftops.

    As she continued her patrol, her thoughts drifted back to the man she''d found in the alley. She hoped he would be okay, that the gangs weren''t pushing some new super-drug out. Even the low-grade ones caused plenty of damage, and the slums didn''t need anything worse.

    Virgil said he would handle the investigation. But even if she couldn''t help directly, she could keep an eye out. Virgil may be experienced and tenacious, but she knew the slums better than he did, and that was something.

    There was a way to find out more information.

 Chapter 23: Shiver

    <hr>

    Fii slipped back into the clinic and headed to her room to remove her equipment, stuffing the pieces into a black gym bag. Once she was dressed in her usual attire, she padded back out through the clinic''s rear entrance and headed toward the Neon Alley.

    She walked casually along the streets, blending in with the crowd. Nobody gave her a second glance as she wove through the throng, approaching the entrance to the Neon Alley. She glanced up at the colorful array of neon signs hanging above the alleyway, flashing and flickering in the gloom. Despite the late hour, the atmosphere remained lively and energetic.

    Then, she made her way past the large group of people congregating near the entrance and rounded the corner, entering the alley proper. The buildings here were pressed together tightly, narrow passageways branching off at various points, leading to smaller marketplaces and nooks where vendors peddled their wares.

    Fii weaved her way through the bustling crowd, keeping an eye out for anything suspicious. A pair of men staggered past, laughing boisterously as they slung their arms around each other''s shoulders. Another man lurked in a dark alcove, talking in hushed tones with a hooded figure, a cigarette smoldering between his fingers.

    As she approached a booth selling handmade jewelry, a hand reached out from the crowd, wrapping around her arm. She reacted instinctively, pivoting and bringing her free elbow up sharply, making contact with her assailant''s sternum. There was a sharp gasp as the grip on her arm loosened.

    She spun to face the offender, her hand balling into a fist. "Back off!" she spat, ready to strike.

    The man who''d grabbed her staggered back, wheezing. "Relax...was gonna ask..." he coughed, massaging his chest, "if you''re interested in some good weed...just a joint or two..." He winced as he straightened up, giving her a forced smile.

    Fii blinked, her fist unclenching as she relaxed her stance. "Oh...uh...not right now."

    The man gave her a toothy grin. "Come on, sweetheart...won''t be able to offer you this discount later...best stuff on the market, I guarantee it." He winked at her, pulling out a small plastic package filled with rolled joints.

    She shook her head, glancing away awkwardly. "I''m fine, thanks."

    The dealer chuckled, tucking the package back in his pocket. "Suit yourself, kid." He turned and sauntered away, disappearing into the crowd.

    Fii stared after the man for a moment, before continuing on her path. She moved cautiously now, keeping her guard up.

    The last thing she wanted to deal with tonight was getting mugged or solicited for drugs. She was confident she''d be able to sniff out some useful intel from the locals, and her instincts usually weren''t wrong. But if she really wanted to find out what was going on, there was only one person she could turn to: Lyria.

    Fii began asking around, striking up conversations with a few street vendors, performers, and locals. It wasn''t hard; she wasn''t exactly shy, and her charm, albeit goofy, often made folks more receptive to talking. She had a knack for getting people to open up, and she''d learned to use that to her advantage.

    It only took a few moments for her to discover that Lyria was having a small get-together with some friends at her place near the end of the alley. Fii thanked the vendor and tossed a Tink to a street performer before heading over, hoping to catch the party in full swing.

    She knew where Lyria lived, but she also knew it wasn''t a good idea to approach the dancer without permission. The woman wasn''t a regular partier, as far as Fii understood, but she did dabble in the nightlife, and she loved the Neon Alley. It made sense for her to reside nearby, and she often hung around the street performers to socialize. That''s how they met, after all.

    It should be fine. Lyria was nice to her, so barging in uninvited shouldn''t be a big deal. Or at least, Fii hoped.

    <hr>

    The small apartment building looked like many of the others in the area, run-down and dilapidated, but inside was a different story. Fii had only visited Lyria''s place once before, but it seemed the woman had made some improvements since then. Instead of the damp, moldy space she remembered, the interior was surprisingly cozy.

    Warm lighting bathed the main room in a soft, yellow glow, and the air smelled faintly of incense and spices. A couch and several beanbags occupied the center of the room, surrounded by plush pillows. Music played from a vintage-looking record player, and there was a small kitchenette off to the side, complete with a stove and a sink.

    A small group of people lounged around, chatting and laughing amongst themselves. Several of them were drinking and smoking, but nobody seemed too far gone, thank goodness. She didn''t want to intrude on an out-of-control bash, after all.

    "Well, well, if it isn''t my favorite little acrobat! How ya doing, slumshine?" Lyria beamed, emerging from a side room. "Fii! It''s been a while. I thought you''d forgotten about little old me." She draped a lanky arm over the Fii''s shoulder, pulling her into a side hug.

    Fii stiffened at first but quickly relaxed, melting into the embrace. "Hey, I''ve been busy, you know? Just got a lot going on. How''re things?" She awkwardly patted Lyria''s forearm as they walked over to the group, who all greeted her with warm smiles.

    "Oh, you know, just chasin'' the neon in my little shimmer in the puddle. Trying to enjoy myself before I turn into a dried-up old hag." Lyria laughed, a hearty, booming sound. "Come on, relax and sit down. You want a drink?" she asked, motioning to the kitchen.

    Fii shook her head, declining politely. "Ah, thanks, but I don''t really drink much." She scanned the group, counting a total of seven people in total. "Sorry to drop in, by the way. I was just looking for some info, and I figured you''d be able to help me out."

    She looked around at the faces in the room. Many of them seemed familiar, probably regulars at the Neon Alley. But there were a few unfamiliar ones, too, probably acquaintances and friends of the group.

    After pouring herself a drink, Lyria took a sip and waved a hand dismissively. "Eh, you''re not interrupting anything important. Besides, I always got time for you. What''s up? Want me to help spread the word about one of your gigs?" She grinned.

    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    Fii''s eyes lit up. "Uh, no, that''s not...but if you wanna¡ª"

    "I''m kidding, Fii, relax." Lyria chuckled, squeezing Fii''s shoulder reassuringly. "Seriously though, whatcha need? Spill it. I got ears everywhere, y''know." She sat down on the couch, gesturing for Fii to join her.

    One of the people sitting on the couch, a handsome man with a neatly trimmed beard, perked up. "So, who''s this? A friend of yours, Lyr?" He tilted his head, scrutinizing her. "You don''t look like anyone I''ve seen around here before."

    Fii smiled weakly, shrugging. "Name''s Fii. Just a street performer and odd jobber around these parts."

    "Yup, that''s her, and yes, she''s my little friend." Lyria wrapped an arm around Fii''s shoulders and squeezed tightly. "Don''t let the adorable face fool you¡ªthis one''s a real hard worker and a feisty one. Now, shhh, we''re talking here, babe." She shot him a playful wink.

    Fii blushed slightly at the compliment, shifting in her seat.

    Another person, a petite woman with glasses, leaned forward curiously. "Hmm, interesting. So, what brings you here, Fii? Are you part of Lyr''s crew or something? Because, like, if you''re looking for a job, we could probably hook you up with something. Lyr''s tight with a lot of the local vendors."

    Fii shook her head again, running a hand through her hair. "No, that''s not what I''m here for, but...thank you." She gave them all a nervous smile.

    Lyria tsked. "Seriously, chill. She''s fine; we go way back. So, Fii, whatcha need?" The other guests quickly fell silent, seemingly content to listen as she and Lyria conversed.

    Fii made a mental note to return the favor later, somehow, before speaking up. "So, I found this guy overdosing in an alley tonight. Didn''t look like the usual drugs or alcohol, but he was high as a kite. Passed out, seizing and everything. Shaking so hard he dropped a syringe. It was empty. Anyway, I brought him to the clinic, but..." She lowered her voice a bit, leaning in to whisper. "Has there been any echoes in the alley about a new drug? Something big, or different, maybe?"

    Lyria hummed thoughtfully, taking another sip of her drink as she leaned back on the couch. "Y''know, now that you mention it...been hearing some rumors for a while. Like whispers. There''s a new thing going around, supposedly. Dealers call it ''Shiver'' or some such. Said to make you feel real good, like flying, but when it wears off, you crash hard. Like a fucking rock."

    Shiver? Sounded a bit ridiculous. Fii frowned, arching a brow. "Oh? Never heard of that name. Doesn''t seem like the usual stuff that circulates around here. Usually, the new stuff goes straight to the metropolis. But not the slums."

    "Exactly, which is why it''s all kinds of suspect," Lyria explained. "Somebody''s trying to get people hooked on something nasty." She cast a worried glance at her friends, who shared similar looks of concern.

    The bearded man on the couch sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Great, more problems. Isn''t the Neon Alley shady enough as is?"

    The woman wearing glasses rested her chin on her hands. "Makes sense, though. The more addicts, the more money to be made, and the less competition from the usual gangs. Seems like somebody''s trying to clean house." She sipped from her mug, frowning deeply.

    Another woman on the other side of the couch scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Well, who cares? We''re not users, and we''re certainly not addicts. I say let the freaks and gangs destroy themselves for all I care. Less trouble for us." She folded her arms defiantly.

    "Cool motive, still murder," the bearded man said with a wry smirk. "Not to be a jerk, but I''d rather not die because some asshole decided to poison my high." He glared at the woman. "Also, rude. Don''t lump us in with those bottom-feeders."

    "Hear there''s been some nasty side-effects, too," Lyria continued, ignoring the other two. "People losing their minds, going psycho, y''know? Talkin'' crazy, violent-like. Then, bam, they go catatonic and just keel over like dead bugs."

    "One guy told me he had this buddy who''d been using, and then, just like that, he turned on his dealer and killed him. Straight-up tore the poor bastard apart. No joke." Lyria clicked her tongue and made a slashing motion across her throat. "Lost his marbles and offed him. Bonkers, I''m telling ya. It''s dangerous shit, whatever it is."

    Fii blinked, slightly taken aback. The fact that Lyria was even telling her all this was surprising enough. "Sounds really bad. Does anyone know where they''re getting it from, who''s supplying it?" Fii asked, crossing her arms over her chest. "Or at least, who''s dealing it?"

    Lyria shrugged, setting her empty glass on the table. "Don''t know yet. All I know is it''s still in the rumor stages, so it''s only hitting the streets in small amounts, but people are going wild for it. It''s bad news, though. You stick to performing, girl. This isn''t something you wanna mess around with." Her tone was light but held an unmistakable edge of warning.

    Fii nodded solemnly. "Got it. Don''t touch the crazy juice. Good to know. I just hate seeing people hurt, or worse. Doesn''t feel right, y''know? Would be nice if we had someone around to make it all go away."

    Lyria flashed a toothy grin and slapped Fii''s thigh playfully. "Don''t worry, cutie. If you haven''t heard already, we''ve got a superhero in town. Been taking out gangbangers and thugs, keeping the peace and all that." She tapped the side of her nose knowingly. "I bet you she''ll be all over this ''Shiver'' business in no time. Probably knows more than us lowlifes by now."

    Fii allowed herself a small smirk, gazing at her feet. "Yeah, you''re probably right. Thanks, though." She raised her head and smiled brightly at Lyria. "And you''re not a lowlife. You''re one of the nicest people I know. The friendliest, too. If you ever need anything, you know I''m happy to help, right? I owe you, for a lot."

    "Aw, sweet talker." Lyria giggled, stretching her arms and wrapping them around Fii''s neck, pulling her into a tight hug as she straddled her lap. "You''ve always been so adorable. Such a cutie."

    She ran her fingers through Fii''s hair, scratching lightly at her scalp as she whispered, "You know, you''ve grown up so nicely. My, my, you''ve got quite the figure, too. Love the toned arms, babe." She nuzzled Fii''s cheek, tracing her jawline with her nose as she purred, "Wouldn''t mind spending some quality time with you, if you''re interested. Just the two of us. Hmm? Or mabye...with others?" Lyria glanced at the group, who were already giving them approving looks.

    Alert! Red alert! Code red!

    Fii could feel her cheeks burning, and she swallowed hard. "Uhh..." she stammered, her voice cracking. "I, uh, I mean, I''ve gotta...I¡ªuh¡ªI''m not...I don''t think..."

    "Sheesh, Fii, don''t leave me hanging, now," Lyria said with a soft giggle. "You''re in the middle of a party, aren''t you? Relax and enjoy yourself." She pecked Fii''s forehead gently. "All work and no play makes for a dull girl, darling."

    Fii let out a shaky laugh, trying her best to stay calm. "Right...well, um, I guess I could...stay for a little bit. Can''t have fun if I''m nervous, though. And I''ve never done anything like this before, so..."

    "Never? Never ever?" Lyria whispered, her lips brushing against Fii''s ear. "We could start slow. Show you the ropes. Teach you how to breathe again." She nibbled the lobe tenderly and¡ª

    ¡ªthat was all it took for Fii to suddenly lift Lyria off her lap and set the woman on the couch beside her.

    Fii stood up, cleared her throat, and blurted out, "IhavetogoandIreallyshouldgetbacktoit. Thanksforthetalk. Bye!"

    She scrambled for the door, her face beet red. As she sped away, she could hear the others laughing, but Lyria''s laughter seemed louder than all the rest.

    Once she was a few blocks away, she slowed to a normal walking pace, letting her heart rate and breathing settle. She cursed under her breath, trying to erase the embarrassment from her mind.

    She had completely forgotten how forward Lyria could be sometimes. She was a sweet person, sure, but...man. The woman never minced words when she was flirting, and she didn''t seem to care whether anyone else was in the room or not. It wasn''t as if Fii disliked her, but she certainly wasn''t expecting to get hit on like that¡ªand in front of strangers!

    She pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed, her shoulders slumping. "Note to self: Next time, practice saying ''no.'' Definitely need to learn that..." she muttered glumly as she headed back to the clinic.

    At least she managed to get some useful information, and in such a short amount of time, too.

    Looks like she''d have to give Virgil a heads-up about this new drug. This "Shiver" stuff sounded really, really bad, and the sooner they investigated, the better.

 Chapter 24: Happenstance

    The next day, Fii headed to the Vigil to meet up with Virgil. He was already in the basement, bent over a desk, examining some notes and scribbling something down on a piece of paper. A few empty coffee mugs and beer bottles cluttered the countertop nearby. The old radio hummed softly in the background, playing some kind of static-laden oldies station.

    Fii rapped on the door frame, announcing her arrival. "Morning."

    Virgil turned to greet her with a grunt and a curt nod. "Mornin'', kid. Come on in."

    She entered the room and plopped down on a nearby stool, stretching her legs out in front of her. "So, what''d you find?" she asked eagerly. "Did you figure anything out about that weird drug? Or the guy who OD''d?"

    Virgil sighed heavily, setting his pen aside. "Yes and no. Turns out, the guy you helped last night...he''s alive. Edith got him stable, kept him at the clinic overnight for observation." He scratched his stubble-covered chin thoughtfully. "Edith found traces of some unknown drug in his system, so she tested the syringe you brought back. Confirmed the substance was the same one he OD''d on. Still waiting for results to identify what exactly we''re dealing with here."

    He picked up a nearby cup of coffee and took a long sip. "Was able to track down his identity, though. Name''s Joe Morley. Local street punk. Known associate of the Neon Vipers." Virgil shook his head. "Stupid kid."

    "He''s part of that gang? Seriously?" Fii narrowed her eyes and pursed her lips. "Damn, no wonder. So, did you interrogate him or something? Did he spill any information?" She leaned forward, eager for more details.

    "Didn''t have to. Apparently, he woke up briefly while Edith was taking his vitals and started babbling nonsense. Couldn''t remember who he was, where he''d been, or how he''d ended up at the clinic. Said he felt like he was ''floating on clouds,'' so she gave him something to help him sleep." Virgil rubbed the bridge of his nose and groaned. "Kid doesn''t remember squat, so there''s no point in questioning him. But Edith said he''s lucky you found him when you did, otherwise he''d probably be worm food by now."

    "Wow, that''s pretty crazy. Must''ve been one hell of a trip." Fii shrugged, but she couldn''t deny she felt a twinge of pity for the poor guy¡ªeven if he was a gang member. "Think he''ll be okay?" she asked quietly. "I hope he can get better."

    Virgil let out another long sigh and shook his head. "Maybe. It depends on what''s in his system and whether or not he has any residual effects. Guess we''ll hafta wait and see." He clasped his hands together and leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Anyway, as far as the investigation goes...so far, I''m basically chasing ghosts. I talked to a few informants and did some digging. Nothing substantial yet."

    "So, what do we do now? Where do you plan on going next?"

    "Gonna have to visit the Night Market, see if I can get some answers from the vendors. Find out who''s selling, who''s buying, that sorta thing." Virgil pushed himself away from the desk and stretched, wincing as his back popped. "Ugh, getting'' too old for this crap."

    That was the cue she was waiting for.

    "Well...I talked to one of my sources last night. Said there''s a new drug called Shiver that''s starting to circulate through the slums. Supposedly, it gives you an amazing high but sends you crashing real hard after. Sometimes, people end up losing their minds and going homicidal before they check out." Fii crossed her arms over her chest and nodded sagely. "Guess that''s kinda what happened to that guy. Could be related. Maybe."

    Virgil''s eyebrows shot upwards, his expression turning incredulous. "You have informants? Seriously?"

    Fii waggled her brows, flashing a smug grin. "I''m full of surprises. But yeah, I''ve got people I can talk to. Some of ''em can be a bit weird, but I trust ''em. Mostly."

    Virgil let out a tired chuckle. "Huh...who knew, huh?" He stroked his chin, his gaze growing distant as he seemed to fall into deep contemplation. "What else did they tell you?"

    "Apparently, there aren''t that many dealers around yet, but people are going crazy over it. That''s about it, really. They only caught wind of the stuff recently."

    "Who''s your contact?"

    "Nuh-uh, sorry. Not falling for that, old man. You can do your own snooping around, thanks." She stuck her tongue out playfully before hopping off the stool. "Anyway, I gotta go. Places to be, people to see, et cetera, et cetera." With a wave and a smile, she bounced out the door and into the afternoon sun.

    She headed back to the clinic, suited up, and donned her helmet before going out to patrol the streets.

    <hr>

    The weather was nice today, sunny with clear skies. It felt good to move around. Although her bodysuit hid most of her skin, she still felt naked without clothes. It was a strange sensation.

    The slums'' residents had become accustomed to seeing her on patrols, so nobody batted an eye when she passed by. They all simply went about their lives, not bothering to pay her any mind. Some even gave her friendly greetings as they went about their business. The whole experience still felt surreal.

    No rooftop acrobatics today. Instead, she opted to walk through the slums on the ground. She tried to appear casual, ambling slowly along, casually greeting those who greeted her, keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.

    Her route eventually took her through a narrow alleyway.

    As she traversed the alley, her footsteps echoed loudly as they struck the pavement. The sounds of distant chatter and laughter drifted on the breeze. A few pigeons perched on the rusted fire escape above. Sunlight filtered through the cracks and crevices of the surrounding buildings, casting shadows across the dirty, litter-strewn concrete floor.

    When she reached the far end of the alley, a familiar face came into view. It was Quinn, the guy she met atop the water tower a little while ago. He was wearing a faded jumpsuit and wielding a toolbox as he worked on some rusty pipes that lined the wall.

    She stopped in her tracks, debating whether to approach or not. Eventually, curiosity won out, and she broke into a brisk walk. "Hey."

    Quinn paused and glanced over his shoulder at her. His one good eye widened in recognition, and he stood up straight, putting away his tools. "Oh, wow...Axion. Didn''t expect to see you in these parts. Need something?" He wiped his hands on his pant leg, removing some grease stains.

    Axion shook her head. "Just passing through. Hey, are you the maintenance guy around here?" she asked. She examined the rusty pipelines, noting their deteriorated condition. "Seems like you have a lot to deal with."

    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    Quinn chuckled dryly. "More or less. I''m a handyman. Fix anything, anywhere. I get paid in food and water, usually, and sometimes Tinks or ChitCreds. No complaints, though; I prefer it that way. I like to keep busy, and being the neighborhood fix-it guy lets me do that while still making ends meet. It''s a living."

    Axion''s helmet shifted to study the surrounding area. "And they leave you alone? No trouble?"

    "Not usually. People usually know better than to mess with me. Sometimes, gang members or thugs show up and harass me for cash or goods, but it doesn''t happen often. Not a lot of people know how to fix things around here so they rely on me." He shrugged. "Also helps I can take care of myself if I need to." He brandished his toolbox, holding it like a shield. "This right here, plus a wrench to the face, is very persuasive. Not to brag."

    Axion stifled a laugh. "Ha, yeah. Well, at least you''re doing all right."

    "Speaking of which...why are you patrolling here, anyway? Something up?" Quinn quirked a brow. "Looking for something, or someone?"

    She shook her head. "Not really, no. I''m just..." She paused, considering her response carefully. "...keeping an eye out."

    "For...?" Quinn probed, intrigued. "Are the gangs doing anything shady around this neighborhood? Cause I heard about some new drug circulating through the slums. Got a buddy who mentioned it to me."

    "I heard about that, too," Axion replied quietly. "Still looking into it. Haven''t confirmed anything yet. But yeah, I''m keeping a lookout for anything suspicious."

    "The Neon Vipers run this area, right?" Quinn frowned, folding his arms over his chest. "They''re a bunch of bastards, and I wouldn''t put it past them to be pushing this stuff. Kasumi''s a snake, and Viper Vaughn ain''t much better. Watch out for him¡ªthe dude''s a real creep."

    Axion tilted her helmeted head inquisitively. "Kasumi? Who''s that?"

    "Oh, you must''ve not heard of her. She''s the leader of the Neon Vipers. Calls herself ''Cobra'' Kasumi. I''ve seen her around, but I try to steer clear. She''s a real piece of work. Always wearing that stupid mask, acting all mysterious. Thinks she''s some sort of ''queenpin'' or something." Quinn snorted in disdain, rolling his eye. "Uppity bitch."

    The term "Queenpin" tickled at the back of Axion''s brain, but she couldn''t place where she''d heard it before. "Huh, okay. Thanks. I''ll keep that in mind." She adjusted her stance, shifting her weight onto her left foot. "What about you? You a part of any gang?" she asked, trying not to sound accusatory.

    Quinn visibly recoiled, aghast at the question. "Wha¡ªno! Hell no!" He shook his head firmly, frowning. "I''m not a part of any gangs. I stay out of their way and they stay out of mine. Too messy." He chuckled, waving a dismissive hand. "I''m just a simple mechanic, cooking with spare parts and earning my keep. I keep to myself, mostly. Plus, I don''t like getting involved with gang politics and all that crap. Too complicated."

    Axion smiled faintly beneath her helmet, impressed by his honesty. "Good to hear. Well, good luck with the repairs, Mr. Handyman. And thanks for the heads-up about the Neon Vipers." She turned to leave, waving goodbye as she headed out of the alleyway. "Anyways, see you around."

    "Wait, before you go¡ª," he called out, jogging towards her. "I''ve got a favor to ask. Think you can spare a minute?" He eyed her curiously. "Won''t take long, promise."

    He wore a hopeful expression, and he seemed sincere, so she saw no reason to refuse. "Sure, why not? What''s up?"

    He gestured behind him. "There''s a storage unit at the other end of the block. A bunch of supplies and materials are stored inside. Need to haul them back here. There''s only so much I can carry with this toolbox, and well..." He rubbed his left arm nervously. "It''s nothing too heavy, but I could use a hand moving stuff around."

    Axion contemplated for a moment. He wasn''t asking for much, and it wasn''t like she was busy. Plus, she had to admit she was somewhat curious about the contents of the storage unit. "I''m game. Lead the way."

    Quinn grinned gratefully and led Axion to a nondescript warehouse. Its corrugated metal walls were rusted and covered in graffiti. The faded letters across the facade read, "A.S. Storage, Est. 2140." There was an electronic keypad mounted on the exterior, but Quinn ignored it, instead reaching for the padlock securing the double doors. He unlocked the chain and slid the door open with ease, allowing her entrance.

    She followed him inside, stepping past the threshold and into the darkness beyond. Once they were both safely inside, Quinn pulled a string hanging from the ceiling, activating the fluorescent light. The room filled with a yellow glow, illuminating its contents.

    Rows upon rows of crates, barrels, and boxes lined the interior, stacked neatly in neat orderly stacks. Along the walls were various tools, appliances, and miscellaneous equipment. A worn-out couch sat in the far corner, draped with blankets and pillows. It appeared to serve as a makeshift bed, judging from the rumpled sheets and discarded clothes strewn about the floor. There was also a small gas stove, a small portable fridge, a couple of chairs, and a coffee table.

    The room smelled musty and damp, with faint hints of gasoline, oil, and burnt metal. Everything was covered in layers of dust and cobwebs. In the center of the room lay an old oil barrel filled with sand and a few crumpled cigarette butts. The embers flickered in the dim lighting, glowing orange against the charcoal surface.

    "It''s not much, but it gets the job done," Quinn remarked, looking around with a hint of pride in his voice. "Here, come closer." He beckoned Axion over to one of the crates in the back.

    Axion complied, joining him as he knelt and opened the crate. Inside were various mechanical components and parts, including circuit boards, cables, batteries, wiring, gears, bolts, screws, nuts, and other bits of junk.

    She whistled softly. "Lots of neat stuff around here."

    "All this is spare parts. Old equipment and stuff I scavenged. Some of it is useful, but there''s plenty of garbage mixed in. Still...junk''s gold if you see it right. I can sort through it later and pull the good pieces out. But for now, I need your help." He stood up and motioned toward a large tarp-covered object near the rear entrance. "It''s under this sheet. Mind giving me a hand?"

    "No problem." Axion strode over to the tarp and tugged it free, revealing a pile of scrap underneath. "This it?"

    Quinn nodded, bending over and picking up a wrench from a nearby shelf. "Yep. Gonna need some of these to rework some parts." He rummaged through the assortment of odds and ends, pulling a few things out. "Ah, here we go. If you don''t mind carrying that armful over there, I''ll take this box. Should be enough for now. Then I can get to work."

    "Uh, sure." Axion picked up the load, balancing them against her torso. It wasn''t the heaviest thing she''d ever carried, but it wasn''t exactly light, either. She didn''t need to use her gravikinesis to ease the burden.

    Quinn scooped up the cardboard box and followed her outside, closing the door securely behind them. They made their way back to the alley and dropped off their cargo near the maintenance worksite. "Thanks. Appreciate the help, seriously," he said with a grateful smile. "Have somewhere to be?"

    Axion shrugged indifferently. "Not particularly. Just walking around, keeping watch." She noticed a small group of locals staring at them from across the street and subtly gestured at them. "Although, it looks like we''ve got some spectators."

    Quinn chuckled, glancing at the crowd nonchalantly. "Yeah, well, I''m used to being watched. Not sure how you handle the attention, though."

    "Eh, I got used to it. Took some time, but it is what it is. Can''t help but stand out when I''m running around in a bodysuit and helmet, can I?" She crossed her arms over her chest, taking a casual pose.

    Quinn''s good eye trailed over Axion''s bodysuit-clad form appreciatively before he quickly averted his gaze. His cheeks flushed slightly, and he coughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Uh, right, well...anyway, thanks again for helping me out. Really appreciate it." He extended his hand in offering, smiling bashfully.

    Axion accepted his handshake and gave him a firm, friendly squeeze. "Happy to lend a hand, Mr. Handyman."

    "Quinn," he corrected her, releasing her grip. "Name''s Quinn. Nice to meet you, Axion. Take care." He waved goodbye and resumed working on the broken pipe.

    Well, that was a nice little interlude. Best not to linger. Back to work.

    Axion tipped her head in farewell and returned to her patrol.

 Chapter 25: Research

    Virgil was seated in his usual chair while Fii occupied herself by perching on the edge of a filing cabinet, leaning against wall. An open map of the slums was spread out in front of them, displaying the locations where they had each scouted. Several red dots marked different spots within the shantytown, each corresponding to a reported sighting or incident.

    "So, how''d the Night Market go?" She inquired. "Find anything interesting?"

    Virgil rubbed his temples with his thumb and forefinger, letting out an exasperated sigh. "Got the intel from a few trustworthy dealers, but the buzz has been quiet, even for the market. Seems like this Shiver stuff hasn''t been a hot commodity, which means there''s not much info circulating. Everyone''s in the dark, and the gangs aren''t talking, either.

    He tapped his pen against the desk absently, contemplating. " As far as I can tell, the Neon Vipers'' got everyone spooked. They''re the ones distributing it." He scrawled a small note in his notebook. "Not surprised, honestly. It was either them or the Neon Knights, since both deal with narcotics around that district."

    Fii hummed thoughtfully. "That tracks. Someone I know warned me about them. I met with this guy, uh...Quinn, that''s his name. Nice guy."

    "Did you, now?" Virgil raised an eyebrow, shooting her a sideways glance. "Was this while you were suited up as Axion or...?"

    "Yeah, of course, duh." Fii huffed, rolling her eyes. "Doesn''t hurt to make connections, y''know." She swung her legs, kicking her heels against the metal drawer behind her. "Anyway, I bumped into him yesterday, and he told me all about a gang leader named Kasumi. Wears a mask, and calls herself ''Cobra.'' She''s apparently the head honcho of the Neon Vipers. Ever hear of her?"

    Virgil''s eyes widened momentarily before narrowing, his expression turning grim. "Yes, unfortunately, I have. Viper Vaughn''s her number two, and a nasty sonuvabitch, too. They used to operate in the metropolis years back before the Ultimate Guardians booted them out. Since then, they''ve been squatting in the slums, dealing drugs and racketeering." He shook his head and grumbled, "Thought I''d seen the last of those jackasses..."

    "What about the Neon Knights, the other gang? Anything about them?" Fii queried, leaning forward intently. "Do they deal with the Vipers at all?"

    "Dunno," Virgil admitted, scratching his stubble. "Been out of the loop til recently, just before I started training you. Could be a turf war going on, or perhaps a partnership. Either way, it''s a real goddamn shitshow. If it was any other narcotic, fine, but Shiver''s a wild card, especially if it''s affecting people differently."

    "Did Edith figure anything out about that?" Fii pressed. "It sounded like she was still testing the samples I found."

    "She''s been holed up in her lab for the past couple of days," Virgil revealed. "Says she''s working on a ''breakthrough,'' but won''t say anything else. Doesn''t want to get our hopes up, or so she claims."

    The door to the basement opened, and Edith descended the steps, her lab coat swishing behind her. Her hair was tied back in a loose bun, and she looked a bit paler than usual, as if she hadn''t slept in days.

    "Fii, you should really learn to keep your helmet on so I can contact you over the comms instead of me having to walk all the way here and waste valuable time." Edith sighed wearily, but her tone lacked its usual bite. "Anyways, I''ve finished analyzing the Shiver sample you retrieved for me. There''s a lot more I need to do, but I''ve found a few preliminary results that you may find interesting."

    She moved toward the table and spread her handheld tablet atop the map. A holographic screen flickered to life, projecting an image of a microscopic cellular structure.

    Hey! I kinda know what that is! That¡¯s what people are made out of!

    Fii smiled to herself. Somehow, learning all about the science stuff over the past few weeks had been easier compared to when she first started. She didn''t know exactly why, since she still thought that a lot of it was boring and complicated, but it did make understanding what Edith and Virgil were talking about a little less intimidating.

    "You see this, Fii? This is the structural composition of a normal human neuron, taken from a healthy person. As you can see, there are several branching dendrites, axons, and synapses, all connecting and interacting with one another. These structures transmit impulses between the neurons, resulting in chemical signals. When the impulse reaches the terminal button, or synapse, it stimulates the release of a neurotransmitter, such as serotonin or dopamine, and that neurotransmitter travels across the synaptic cleft, a tiny gap between the cells, until it binds to a receptor on another adjacent cell. This process repeats itself endlessly, resulting in thought, movement, emotion, everything, really."

    She gestured to a second image alongside the first. "Now, this is the cellular structure of someone under the influence of Shiver."

    On-screen, the neuron''s branches appeared darker, thicker, and more bulbous, resembling a tangle of roots.

    "Notice the extra growth and inflammation in the dendrites and axons. These are abnormalities that only occur during Shiver''s toxic withdrawal phase."

    Edith zoomed in further, highlighting the intricate filaments that lined the cell''s nucleus.

    "These filaments are what are responsible for the hallucinogenic effects. Upon consumption, they immediately enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain. Once there, they embed themselves into the brain''s nerve endings, disrupting the normal electrical signaling and causing a severe reaction. Over time, the amount of these filaments increases exponentially, resulting in erratic and unpredictable behavior. The individual will experience heightened levels of euphoria, followed by a gradual crash, culminating in rage, paranoia, and seizures, leading to catatonia, coma, and death."

    She folded her arms across her chest, frowning. "Unfortunately, there is no antidote currently known for this. Only symptomatic treatment and management of acute withdrawal is possible, although even that comes with significant risk."

    "Guess the guy I found was lucky I found him when I did and brought him to you," Fii mused somberly. "Probably would''ve gone berserk and killed someone."

    Edith''s face remained stony and dispassionate. "Most likely. Even now, the chance of him dying from complications is still high."

    Virgil and Fii exchanged a pained look, clearly distraught by the revelation.

    Edith continued, unfazed, "In addition, the presence of these strange filaments indicates a higher intelligence is at work. Creating a substance capable of altering one''s physical and mental state, particularly with such specific effects, is extremely sophisticated. The fact that only some of the users suffer violent hallucinations while others feel euphoria suggests that the dosage is being calibrated based on genetic factors, such as metabolism and drug tolerance. Add to that the fact that the dose of these filaments increases over time, and you begin to see the scale of the issue. Whoever created this drug has advanced knowledge of both chemistry and biotechnology. Which leads me to my final point."

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    Edith''s finger jabbed at the projection, indicating the stem-like protrusions extending from the nucleus. "The appearance and function of these structures strongly suggest genetic manipulation of the original psychoactive compound. In other words, whatever we''re dealing with has been artificially altered. Genetic engineering at play. The sheer level of sophistication is astounding, and frankly, quite frightening."

    She turned her gaze from the display to regard Fii and Virgil coolly. "The drug is highly addictive, the withdrawal symptoms are severe, and the victims can become violent and homicidal. I don''t know why someone would circulate this within the slums, unless their goal is to create chaos and panic. But clearly, they''re playing a dangerous game."

    Fii blinked slowly as she processed the information. Even with everything she''d learned, she felt overwhelmed by the influx of data, unsure of how to respond. "Um, so...what do we do now? Should we warn people? I mean, I could put out some word on the streets, get the message out as best I can, and hopefully keep the damage to a minimum, at least for the time being."

    Virgil puffed on his cigar, exhaling a plume of smoke. "We don''t even know where the source is, though, and I doubt anyone in the Night Market has the answers." He stroked his beard contemplatively, weighing his options. "Then again, we do know who the major players are in this area, namely the Neon Vipers. We can track them, find where they''re getting their supply, and follow the trail back to whoever''s cooking up the stuff."

    Fii straightened, eager to contribute. "Maybe I could get more information from my contacts! I''ve already gotten some leads from some friends I trust." She tried not to sound too excited, but she couldn''t hide her eagerness.

    The truth was, she wanted to be part of this investigation, not just a tagalong, especially now that she knew what they were dealing with. This was bigger than petty gang disputes and small-time crime, and the implications of what Edith was telling her...well, it scared her. There were already too many addicts in the slums; the last thing they needed was something worse out there.

    "Well, as long as you keep a low profile and stay out of trouble, I guess it wouldn''t hurt to investigate further." Edith acknowledged reluctantly. "Remember, keep your identity as Axion a secret. Don''t draw unnecessary attention to yourself, and keep me updated, understood?" She peered at Fii expectantly.

    Fii saluted her smartly, grinning cheekily. "I know, I know. I''ve been doing this for months now, remember?" She hopped off the filing cabinet, nearly losing balance as she landed on unsteady feet. "Oof...heh, easy does it. Anyways, I''ll try to reach out to people, see what they know. I''ll let you guys know if I find anything useful."

    She spun on her heel and strode toward the stairwell. Before leaving, she paused and glanced back, shooting them a small, reassuring smile. "Don''t worry, I''ll be careful."

    As she ascended the stairs, she caught a glimpse of Edith''s lips curling upward in an amused smirk.

    <hr>

    As night fell, Fii wandered back into the Neon Night Market, disguised once more in her shabbier, street clothes.

    Wait, when was this a disguise? This was her usual outfit. The bodysuit and helmet were the disguises. Wait, no...whatever.

    She made her way through the neon-lit market, avoiding the worst of the crowds, and eventually ended up at The Crimson Claw. It seemed like as good a place to start as any. She entered through the side alley entrance, slipping past the bouncer without incident and entering the lounge.

    The bar''s patrons were more rowdy than usual, with fights breaking out and the floor stained with blood. A few brawls had spilled outside, as well, and a group of thugs were scrapping in the alley, punching and kicking each other in a frenzy.

    Fii approached the bar, weaving her way past the mass of writhing bodies, and took a seat at the counter.

    The bartender glanced over and raised an eyebrow. "Well, if it isn''t my favorite little straggler. Where you been, kid? Haven''t seen ya lately." He shot her a knowing wink and placed a bottle of beer in front of her, wiping the condensation with a cloth. "On the house, but don''t go overboard."

    Fii laughed. "Thanks, Zig. Been busy with odd jobs, y''know? Earned a few chits, managed to eat some real food for once. Ain''t gonna turn my nose up at a free drink, though." She popped the cap and took a sip, savoring the bitter taste of hops and alcohol.

    Zig leaned against the countertop, scrutinizing her shrewdly. "So, what brings you by? Not to insult you or anything, but you normally stay away from places like this. Especially on a fight night." He gestured to the crowd behind her. "Business has been real good, as you can see. Got most of the Neon Vipers here tonight. Some Neon Knights, too. Look like they''re ready to kick the shit out of each other at a moment''s notice."

    Fii took another sip and scanned the room. "So I''ve heard. Kettle''s always boiling, huh?"

    Zig snorted derisively. "That''s an understatement. Word is the Vipers'' been running the show, and the Knights ain''t too happy ''bout it. You gotta understand, though. Vipers been dealing in this district for months, ever since Cobra Kasumi and her crew showed up. They been putting a lot of pressure on the Knights, forcing ''em to move outta the Neon Market. Pissed ''em off royally, apparently."

    Fii set down the beer bottle and cleared her throat, speaking in a lower tone, "Heard from echoes in the alley there''s been some new stuff floating around. Is that true?"

    Zig sighed and lowered his voice, matching her volume. "Afraid so. Apparently, the Vipers got their hands on some new product, somethin'' real strong. Some kind of weird, synthetic psychedelic, I heard. And they''ve been selling it to dealers at half-price, cuttin'' into the Knights'' business. Got some of the Reaper Posse involved, too, who''ve been supplying their own crew, so things have gotten pretty tense."

    He scratched his chin thoughtfully, frowning. "Actually, funny thing I just remembered, now that you mention it. Barely two nights ago, I saw Viper Vaughn coming around, makin'' the rounds with a case of the stuff. Got some of his boys handing out the needles in exchange for Tinks. The gangs started throwin'' punches at each other soon after, and things escalated from there."

    Fii blinked. "Only Tinks? Not ChitCreds?"

    "Crazy, right?! And the dealers didn''t seem too concerned with collectin'' payment, either. Acted like the goods were free. Now that''s something I never expected to see from the Vipers. They must really believe the new stuff is worth it if they''re givin'' it away like that. Might explain why the gangs have been fighting nonstop the past few days."

    Zig shook his head and tutted disapprovingly. "Bad for business, I tell ya. I don''t need that crap happening in my bar."

    "Speaking of which," Fii prodded. "You got any idea where Viper Vaughn came from when he made those rounds? Got any clue who he''s working with? Or who he got the stuff from?"

    Zig threw his hands up defensively, eyes wide with surprise. "Hey, hey, slow your roll! I''m just a humble bartender, girl. I don''t ask questions. Just pour drinks and listen, which I''ve done. But getting'' involved? Now that''s something I don''t wanna mess with. If you ask me, you might wanna steer clear of all that nonsense. Whatever the Vipers got, I''m not interested."

    He stepped back, wiping his hands with his towel. "I got a livin'' to make, and I''m not getting'' on the bad side of Cobra Kasumi, or worse...her lieutenant, Vaughn. Bloke''s a psycho." He shuddered at the mere mention of the gangster''s name. "Nope, you want info? Ask someone else. I ain''t stupid, and I like living, thank you very much. You ought to do the same."

    Fii pursed her lips, frustrated.

    Aside from Lyria, Zig was the only other goer in the Neon district she trusted. He had never failed to provide useful gossip and rumors before, but it seemed like he really drew the line here.

    Fine, there''s nothing I can do about that.

    Fii drained the rest of her beer in silence, scrunching her face as the bitter taste burned her tongue. With a grimace, she slid the empty bottle toward Zig, who disposed of it with a shrug.

    "Thanks for the drink, Zig." She pushed her stool back, preparing to stand. "I''ll, uh... I''ll just be on my way, then. Good talk."

    "Don''t be a stranger now, kiddo," Zig chided good-naturedly. "Stay safe, all right? Watch your back out there." He reached into his apron pocket and tossed a protein ration packet at her. "By the way...you''ve got quite the glow-up since last time I saw ya. Looking healthier." He flashed her a sly wink.

    She caught the packet and tucked it into her jacket, grinning sheepishly. "Thanks. Really appreciate it." She exited the bar and merged back into the throng of bustling partygoers and revelers, hoping to find better luck elsewhere.

    And she knew exactly where to go next.

 Chapter 26: Neon Knights

    After navigating through the maze of alleyways and passageways, Fii finally reached her destination¡ªa makeshift, ramshackle tavern built on a loading dock. Raucous, cacophonous music blared from within, and bright lights emanated from the building''s cracked windows and patched-up walls. The air smelled of stale tobacco smoke and cheap perfume, and the laughter of drunkards could be heard from within.

    Fii steeled her nerves and pushed through the main entrance, stepping inside.

    She emerged into a dim, humid room full of people drinking and carousing. The walls were lined with tables, and at the center of the establishment stood a long, polished wooden counter. Various bottles of alcohol and spirits were stacked behind the counter, illuminated by glowing neon tubes.

    At the far end of the room, a stage sat, with a live band performing a noisy, dissonant song. Their lead singer wailed incomprehensibly while his two backup singers played bass and drums, respectively. The drummer banged away furiously on his instrument, shaking his shaggy mane of dyed pink hair in sync with the beat. The bassist swayed and bobbed his head, playing a hypnotic melody as he leaned into his instrument.

    Fii maneuvered her way past the crowd of dancers, squeezing past the wall of sweaty, heaving bodies. She reached the counter and squeezed in beside a group of boisterous regulars.

    "Hey, Phil, fix me a Sea Siren," she yelled over the din.

    A stocky, greasy-haired man clad in a stained vest and cargo shorts slid over to her and wiped his hands with a rag. "The usual, eh, Fii? I''ve missed you!" He poured a clear liquid into a glass and mixed it with a few drops of blue dye. "Sorry, I ran out of blueberry soda. You know how it is. Gotta use what''s available." He handed her the concoction.

    Fii accepted the proffered beverage and gulped it down eagerly. The cold, fruity alcohol numbed her tongue and sent a warm tingle through her body, easing her frayed nerves.

    "I love what you''ve done with the place," she teased. "It''s even trashier than before."

    "Hah, ain''t that the truth. But hey, beggars can''t be choosers, right?" He chuckled and tossed his stained apron to the floor, exposing his sweaty chest. "I''m sweating my ass off here, though. Someone better break out a window with a brick, or I''ll throw out the whole damn lot of you myself."

    He gestured angrily at the crowd of revelers dancing around him. "And somebody tell those Neon Knights to lay the hell off, wouldya? They''ve been hassling us since noon, demanding protection fees, threatening to wreck the place. Fucking pricks, the lot of them. Why, just yesterday¡ª"

    "Easy, Phil, easy." Fii waved him down, finishing the drink. "Slow down. One thing at a time." She handed him back the empty glass. "Those Knights here right now?"

    Phil sniffed and wiped his nose with a handkerchief, scowling. "Yeah, they''re sitting at their usual booth. You see the one with the sickly purple eyes?" He pointed a stubby finger at a nearby table where a group of hooligans was loudly drinking, smoking, and heckling passersby.

    "Right there, the bald bastard wearing the ridiculous green tank top with those big, ugly muscles. Thinks he''s all that, but I tell ya, I''ve seen prettier pigs. Anyway, he''s the one I dealt with yesterday. The fucking nerve of that prick! Like we''re running some kinda whorehouse here. Ugh. Can you believe this shit?" He gestured wildly, indignant.

    "But anyways, they''ve been hanging around for a while, which is annoying as hell. They haven''t left, so I have to serve them or else they''ll tear the place apart, but I''d rather they piss off and go back to their hole and never come out."

    Fii nodded absently, studying the Knights'' table discreetly. She spotted the man Phil had described: bald, burly, with a deep scar running along his right brow, a broken nose, and sickly, purplish-yellow eyes. He wore a tacky neon tank top, torn jeans, and steel-toed combat boots, and he smoked a cigar while tossing back shots of booze.

    Next to him sat a smaller woman with green hair, wearing a sleeveless, cropped top, leather jacket, and denim miniskirt, with thigh-high combat boots. Her makeup was smeared, and her mascara had run down her cheeks. She hung off the arm of the larger thug, giggling and nuzzling his neck drunkenly.

    The rest of the table consisted of several other similar-looking goons, all of whom wore the signature colors of the Neon Knights. Each member sported tattoos and piercings on various parts of their body, often in conspicuous locations like the ears or nipples. They brandished knives and blunt weapons openly, laughing and jeering at everyone they saw.

    Great, they''re all trashed. Hope that doesn''t complicate things.

    "Anyway, kid, you haven''t been by in ages," Phil remarked, pouring her another drink. "Where''ve you been keeping yourself lately? Heard you disappeared for a while after getting into a tussle with the Gully Rats again. That true?"

    Fii grinned, accepting the beverage with thanks. "Oh, y''know, been working, staying busy. Ran into some trouble, but I worked it out."

    She eyed the gangsters cautiously, trying not to attract attention to herself. "So, those Knights been showing up for a while now?"

    "Yep," Phil confirmed, sighing heavily. "Every night this week. They usually come around for a few hours and leave, but now they''re practically squatting in the joint."

    "Think it''s because of the Neon Vipers?"

    "Honestly, yeah, probably. The Knights have been looking to expand their territory for a while now, and those Viper bastards have been cutting into their drug trade. Last I checked, they''ve been feuding for the past couple of weeks, which means there''s a power struggle in the making, and I''m not exactly thrilled at the prospect. Could be messy as hell if it comes to blows."

    "Makes sense..." Fii mused aloud. "Say, do you know anything about this new stuff the Vipers have been pushing?"

    Phil raised an eyebrow and shrugged. "Can''t say I have, no. All I''ve heard is that they''ve been distributing something called Shiver. Can''t tell you anything about it, though. Only thing I can tell you is that if you wanna get in touch with the Neon Knights, this here''s your chance. They''ll know something about the new stuff, if they ain''t involved with it themselves."

    Fii thanked Phil again and excused herself, carrying her second drink to an empty corner of the room. She snagged an abandoned stool from a nearby table and sat down, leaning against the wall while observing the Neon Knights from afar.

    They looked like they were having a good, rowdy time. Maybe she''d be able to get some information out of ''em while they were like that.

    After a moment of deliberation, she summoned her courage and decided to approach them directly. But just as she was about to stand up and make her move, a gloved hand pressed against her shoulder and sat her back down.

    Bewildered, Fii turned and found herself staring at Virgil, who somehow was sitting on the stool next to hers without her ever noticing.

    "What the¡ª"

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    "Calm yourself, kid. I''ve been keeping an eye on you the past hour," he explained casually. "Followed you to The Crimson Claw. Zig''s place, right? Had a chat with him. Nice chap, but I couldn''t get a word outta him on Shiver. He shut up real quick when I brought it up. Then I tailed you here."

    "Wha- but, how-" Fii spluttered, shocked by Virgil''s sudden appearance.

    How''d he manage to tail her without her noticing? He wasn''t exactly inconspicuous with his tattered trench coat, battered cowboy hat, and dusty boots. Hell, he practically stuck out like a sore thumb compared to the neon-clad ravers surrounding them.

    "I followed you through the alleys. It''s an old skill of mine. Remind me to teach you later. Useful for avoiding attention when you don''t wanna be followed, or for sneaking up on a mark." He sipped his glass of whiskey, never taking his eyes off the Neon Knights'' table. "In any case, you were about to do something stupid like confront that gang, weren''t you?"

    Fii shifted uncomfortably on her stool. "No, I mean, uh, well..." She trailed off, unable to fabricate a convincing lie. "Look, I know, but I have to ask them, okay? Maybe they have answers about¡ª"

    Virgil waved her down and grunted, "Hold up, kid. You''re talking to the wrong people. Those bastards wouldn''t spill the beans on this even if they knew anything. If you had tried to prod them about the Vipers or the drug, they would have thought that you were spying on them. It would have gone south, real quick." He turned and studied her, frowning. "Besides, we don''t even know for certain that they''re involved, do we?"

    Fii furrowed her brows and scowled. "Hey, I didn''t come all the way out here for nothing! I figured, they''re the only lead we''ve got at this point, so we should take advantage while we can."

    Virgil grunted, unimpressed. "Might as well stick your foot in a trap and see what happens, sure. A good plan." He pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling in exasperation. "Look, I admit that you got some good informants around here¡ªthat Zig fellow, the barkeep, and probably a few more I reckon. But they probably got a soft spot for you to begin with so they''re giving you preferential treatment."

    He shook his head ruefully. "If you approached the Knights with these questions, though, they wouldn''t bother answering, or worse, they might become hostile. It would have put you in danger, and you''d have wasted valuable time."

    Fii sulked, averting her eyes from Virgil.

    "Okay, fine, you''re probably right," she conceded grudgingly. "But can we at least ask around? Try to figure out where they got the drugs from? Anything to go off, really. It''s the only lead we got at this point."

    Virgil studied the gang''s table again, scratching his stubble in contemplation. "Actually, perhaps there is something we can do here. An old trick I used to do when hunting bounty targets. Mind you, we may get our hopes dashed, but it''s better than doing nothing."

    "Whatcha got in mind, old timer?" Fii smirked.

    Virgil ignored the jab, adjusting his hat as he surveyed the club. "All right, listen carefully. You''re going to approach their table and offer them a toast. Tell them you heard that they''re the toughest gang in the neighborhood and that you wanted to show your appreciation. Play to their egos. As you walk over, I''m going to slip around and try to swipe their stash from their bags or coats. Hopefully, I''ll be able to lift something valuable to us. Got it?"

    Fii nodded slowly, absorbing the instructions. "So...we''re basically mugging them? Pretty ballsy."

    "Yup. Besides, this is hardly mugging. This is stealing from the gangs; we''re doing the community a favor here." He finished his drink in one gulp and wiped his mouth. "Let''s do this. Remember, keep it smooth. No need to rush it; make it casual, friendly."

    With that, Virgil stood, moving stealthily through the crowd until he faded from view.

    Sure, Virgil. Leave the heavy lifting to the girl. This had better work!

    Fii gulped nervously, psyching herself up to approach the Knights'' table. She took a deep breath and carried her glass over to them, maneuvering through the dense cluster of partiers.

    Here goes nothing!

    Once she arrived at their table, she plastered on a fake smile and greeted them with feigned cheerfulness, "Hey, gang! How''s everybody doing tonight? Having a good time?"

    The bald brute turned to leer at her, his crooked teeth bared in a crude, drunken smile. "Heyyy, gorgeous! Come on over here and join us for a drink! We got plenty to spare. And plenty more fun if you''re into it." His purplish eyes gleamed with interest as they roved over her figure. "Mmm... I dig the jacket, and you definitely got the looks. What do ya say?"

    The gang laughed and jeered at her, and a few of the men reached out to grab at her clothes suggestively, but she deftly sidestepped them, still smiling politely.

    "Sorry, guys, I''m not interested. I just thought I''d stop by and offer you a drink, since, y''know, you looked like you were having a rough day." She held up her glass and tilted her head to one side, giving the leader her most charming grin. "I hear the Neon Knights are tough as nails, so I just wanted to give my respect. I guess you deserve it, so...cheers."

    She held out her drink awkwardly.

    The bald man stared at her for a long moment, unblinking, then burst into raucous laughter. The rest of his gang joined in, and for a minute, they sat there howling, wheezing, and pounding the table, slapping each other on the back.

    When their fit finally subsided, the leader peered at her, grinning. "All right, cutie, I''ll bite. Thanks, I guess. Much appreciated, really. But let''s make this interesting, shall we?"

    He lifted a small box and waved it in her face, opening the lid to reveal several hypodermic syringes filled with a sparkling, translucent fluid. "I''m feeling generous, so you can have a hit of this. On the house! Call it a reward for cheering up the gang. Haha."

    Fii recoiled slightly at the sight of the needle, but kept her composure, smiling amiably. "Really? Wow, thanks so much. Um...but I don''t do needles. Sorry, maybe not today."

    The leader leaned forward, fixing her with a dangerous glare. "Huh. Oh, so that''s how you wanna play, eh?" His voice dropped to a low growl, and he snarled, "Look, little bitch, you want this, you take it. End of discussion."

    The gang muttered ominously, growing restless. They glowered at her, and their hands crept to their weapons, fingers curling around the hilts of their knives.

    Fii frowned and took a step back. "Listen, I said no thanks, okay? I just wanted to show you some respect. I don''t need your charity." She glanced around, searching the crowd for Virgil, but she couldn''t find him anywhere. "Umm...okay, well, enjoy the rest of your night. I gotta go."

    The bald brute''s eyes narrowed dangerously, and he snarled, "Going nowhere, girl. And I don''t take kindly to being turned down. We don''t do refunds, y''see? And I hate when I get stood up, especially by a skank like you." He grabbed her by the wrist, and the gang rose from their seats, closing in around her menacingly. "So you''ll have to pay us back another way, if you catch my drift."

    He yanked her toward him, wrapping his arm around her waist tightly. "Come on, now, don''t play shy. There''s a reason you came to our table tonight, and you can''t fool us, baby."

    Her urge to just kick the shit out of them was strong. Very, very strong. But she needed to stay calm; any sudden movements and she could escalate things. Then this whole place could get torn up...or worse.

    Damn, where did Virgil run off to?

    "Come on, honey, open wide and relax," the bald thug coaxed. "Show me that pretty mouth of yours. Lemme see those lips wrap around th¡ª"

    A beer bottle shattered against the back of his head, cutting his sentence short. He released his grip on Fii and stumbled sideways, clutching his scalp and yelping in pain.

    Fii seized the opportunity to free herself and sprinted toward the exit as fast as she could, shouting a quick apology to Phil along the way.

    Outside, she tore down the alley and into the night, dodging and weaving through the maze of darkened pathways. She ducked into a side alley and rested against a crumbling brick wall, trying to catch her breath.

    After a brief pause, she strained her ears and listened intently, catching the sound of approaching footsteps coming from behind her. She spun around, fists raised defensively.

    Virgil strode calmly into the alley, his hands in his pockets and his expression relaxed. He removed his hat and shook his head in mock disapproval. "See, this is what I mean. I told you it would go badly, didn''t I? Now imagine what would have happened if you went ahead and did your original plan¡ªtalking to them."

    Fii scowled and shot him a dirty look. "Yeah, yeah. I get it already. Still, you couldn''t have stepped in a bit sooner, could you? And what happened to the plan, anyway?"

    He patted the front of his trench coat. "Oh, don''t worry, I got something interesting from them. Stowed it away in my jacket already." He raised his hands in a placating gesture as she opened her mouth to complain. "I was waiting for the right moment, kid. Didn''t expect the bastard to threaten you like that. Should''ve knocked his lights out right there and then, but that would have blown the whole operation."

    Fii sighed, slumping against the wall in defeat. "Fine. Whatever. We got something, at least. Can''t do anything about what-ifs, so let''s see what you got."

    She followed him out of the alley, and together they returned to the Vigil.

 Chapter 27: Translation

    "So, what''d you manage to snatch?" Fii asked, peeking over Virgil''s shoulder as he set the contents of his coat onto a desk, laying the stolen objects out on a cloth spread beneath the light of an antique lamp.

    "Hmm, not bad," Virgil remarked, scrutinizing the scattered contents. "Got a few chits, some keys, a lighter, a switchblade, some gum wrappers, a condom...and this." He picked up a small piece of paper, squinting at it under the light. "Looks like a note from someone. Can''t make out what it says, though. Might be worth something."

    Fii poked around in the pile and rummaged through the debris, picking up each item individually. "There''s also some Tinks, some dice, and a pack of cigarettes. This seems like junk to me. Are you sure there''s nothing else?"

    Virgil nodded, peering into the folds and pockets of his coat. "Yup. Nothing else. At least we have something to work with, though. Here, see if you can make sense of that note."

    He passed the scrap of paper to Fii, who examined it closely, holding it up to the light.

    "Looks like scribbles to me." She wrinkled her nose in disappointment, but then her eyes lit up in recognition. "Oh wait! These kinda look like the writing that Kenzo''s band uses."

    "Who''s that?" Virgil asked.

    "He''s part of a band I listen to. They''re pretty famous around here. I don''t understand his lyrics most of the time, but I''ve seen posters and graffiti written in the same style."

    Virgil frowned thoughtfully. "Huh...well these also look like a tag from the gangs. They sometimes leave signs or symbols around town. Helps them lay claim to territory, intimidates rivals, that sort of thing. Maybe this is a message from one gang to another? Doesn''t help that this seems like it''s written in code, though. Could be worth something if we can crack it."

    "Maybe whoever wrote this just has really bad handwriting?" Fii offered, half-jokingly. "You should''ve seen what mine looked like the first time Edith taught me how to read and write. Was all shaky. She said my writing looks like someone was poking me with hot needles when I spell stuff."

    She winced at the memory. Week after week of endless, painful tutoring sessions with Edith flashed through her mind, making her cringe inwardly. Those had been...not fun times. In the end, she managed to pick it up, but damn did she hate every minute of it. Edith wasn''t exactly known for her patience or gentle teaching style.

    Still, she wouldn''t trade those lessons for anything in the world. Despite Edith''s gruff mannerisms, Fii recognized the genuine effort she had made. Learning new things went from being a chore to a welcome challenge, and soon became a source of fulfillment and personal growth.

    Now, she was actually starting to enjoy reading and writing. And speaking of reading, she should visit Orion again sometime to borrow more books. That guy was great for book recommendations and advice. Not to mention he always had the most interesting stories to tell.

    Virgil scratched his chin and continued scanning the note. "Well, either way, this is the only other lead we got out of all this nonsense, so I say we pursue this to the end. See what we can find, talk to people who know about these symbols. Perhaps there''s something to be learned from the folks who paint them on the walls."

    Fii rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Actually, wait a minute, maybe Sumiki might know how to read this."

    "Who''s that?" Virgil queried. "One of your friends?"

    "He owns a little shop close to Edith''s clinic. He has a bunch of stuff there that he''s collected, and some of ''em have symbols and markings that look like this." She held the note out back to Virgil. "Might be worth checking out."

    "Lead on, then," Virgil declared. "I reckon I''ve rested enough from that errand earlier. Time to go for a walk." He slid the items into his jacket pocket, placed his hat back on his head, and followed her outside.

    <hr>

    "You. Girl. You bring new customer. Good, good! Welcome!" Sumiki spoke in fragmented phrases as Fii and Virgil entered the store, the jangle of a bell announcing their presence.

    Fii chuckled at the aged shopkeeper. "Hey, Sumiki. I''ve got a question for you. Something I need translated, hopefully."

    Sumiki waddled closer, adjusting his spectacles on his hawkish nose, peering at the two of them curiously. "Ahh, Fii-girl! Of course, of course! Anything you want to know, I can answer. Easy! Wait, who this? Your boyfriend?"

    He elbowed her playfully, laughing heartily. "Eh-heh-heh-heh!"

    "He''s not my boyfriend!" Fii hissed, flushing. She glared at Virgil, who stood quietly to the side, examining the room''s interior. She looked back at Sumiki with a glare. "He''s almost as old as you are. Old enough to be my dad. Are you crazy?"

    Sumiki ignored her and waved a hand dismissively. "Old man, hmm? So? Age does not matter, yes? Experience counts, you see. More experienced, better sex life! Plenty of couples around here with big age gap."

    He gestured at Virgil, indicating his muscular, athletic physique. "Older man like that, he''ll please you like nothing else, I''m sure. Make the magic happen! Eh-heh-heh-heh-hey!"

    He cackled wildly at his own joke. When his laughter died down, he wiped tears from the corners of his eyes and grinned.

    Fii''s face reddened further, and she stamped her foot. "Seriously, Sumiki, stop it! That''s gross. Quit imagining things." She exhaled, trying to contain her embarrassment. "Okay, look, this isn''t why I came here. This is business, all right? Now quit being weird and focus."

    "All right, what you want me to translate? Must be important, eh?" Sumiki lowered his glasses to peer at her, his tone adopting a more serious cadence. "No time for fun. I understand. Is all business." He clapped his hands together. "Okay, no problem. Show me, show me."

    Fii walked over and grabbed the note from Virgil''s hands, placing it in front of Sumiki''s face. "Can you read this for me?"

    Sumiki adjusted the frames of his spectacles once more and brought the piece of paper within centimeters of his eyes. He cocked his head and hummed pensively, narrowing his eyes as he tried to make sense of the cursive scrawl.

    After a few seconds, he set the paper on the counter with a sigh and scratched his forehead. "Sorry, Fii-girl. I can''t help you. Too many Kanji I don''t recognize. Been too long since I learned them from my father. I have lost much. Ehh, I''m getting old now. Memory like a sieve. Ehhh, I''m sorry, Fii-girl."

    Virgil stepped forward, intrigued. "You can''t read any of it, then?"

    Sumiki shrugged and bowed apologetically, his eyes creasing sadly at the edges. "Only a few characters here and there. Not much. Can''t decipher message. One I know is ¶¾Òº, or Doku-Eki. It means venom, poison, or toxic liquid"

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    He paused and pulled out a pencil and a notepad, scribbling the another phrase on a blank sheet. "Another one is Ò½ËaÆ·, or I-Yaku-Hin. It means pharmaceutical."

    He showed them the notepad, pointing to the characters with the tip of his pencil. "Not much else. Just these ones."

    "Hmm." Virgil considered Sumiki''s words, rubbing his beard pensively. "That''s not much, but it gives us a hint. A vague one, but better than nothing."

    Fii groaned in frustration and banged a fist on the counter. "This sucks. Do you know anyone else who might be able to translate it, Sumiki? Please, it''s important."

    Sumiki thought for a moment and shook his head. "No one teach Kanji here. Only very few know¡ªlike the one who wrote this. You must go to metropolis. Only there."

    "Great, that''s really helpful," she muttered sarcastically as she sank her head into her hands with a groan. "What are we going to do now?"

    Virgil inspected the note once again, scanning the text with keen eyes. "It''s not over yet," he murmured. "That means whoever wrote this is educated¡ªmaybe from the metropolis. It also implies they might be associated with a pharmaceutical company. The guy I snagged this from must have also snagged it from a Neon Viper."

    Fii watched as Virgil folded the note and tucked it into his coat, concealing it from view. "Let''s check in with Edith and see what she has to say. She might be able to provide a fresh perspective.

    Fii stood up and smiled gratefully at Sumiki. "Thanks for trying, anyway."

    "No worries, Fii-girl. Come back and visit again soon, eh?" Sumiki winked and nudged her again, waggling his eyebrows suggestively. "If older men not your type, my nephew single. Good boy, young and handsome, just your age. No, wait. Five years younger. Maybe four."

    "Sumiki..." Fii growled dangerously in warning, her eyes flashing.

    "Ha ha, sorry, sorry!" Sumiki exclaimed, throwing his arms up in surrender. "No matchmaking, I swear! Forgive old man and his silly jokes. My wife tell me, ''no, you stupid fool, leave girls alone!'' but I no listen. Still as naughty as spring chicken, you see? Ha ha!"

    He clasped both Fii''s hands in his and gave her a grandfatherly smile, "Okay, you go with cowboy. Oh! I have few pack of condom in back. Ribbed or thin. Both have. Six months before expire. You buy? Cheap price, I promise."

    "Bye, Sumiki." Fii shot him one final withering stare, snatched her hands out of his grasp, and stalked out of the shop, cheeks flaming in mortification.

    Virgil tipped his hat courteously at Sumiki before following Fii outside.

    <hr>

    Back inside the clinic, Edith was hard at work when they arrived. She was hunched over a microscope, humming to herself while tapping a pen on her clipboard. Several test tubes sat on the counter nearby, containing samples of different colors and consistencies.

    "Hey, Edith," Fii greeted.

    Edith''s head snapped up at the sound of their voices. "Oh, hey there. You''re both back early. Find anything useful?" She blinked owlishly at them as they approached. "Something wrong? You don''t seem happy."

    Fii slumped against a nearby stool and sighed. "We got some intel, but that''s about it. The guy who gave us this translation said he couldn''t figure the rest out. He tried, but it''s no good. The closest he could do was ''venom'' and ''pharmaceutical.'' And that''s it."

    Virgil produced the paper note from his coat pocket and passed it to Edith, who accepted it gingerly.

    Edith leaned forward to inspect the scrap. "Hmm, hmm, hmm. Interesting, interesting..." She rotated the paper, flipping the scrap between her fingers. "Helix. Can you take a look at this?"

    She placed the sheet of paper beneath a camera mounted by her monitor. The lens zoomed in, and Helix''s mechanical voice chimed in an instant.

    [Processing. Stand by. Processing complete. Extrapolating. Linguistic analysis identifies writing as a mix of Kanji, romanized letters, and English numerals.]

    "Translate it."

    [The note contains information regarding a planned meeting between the Neon Vipers and an unknown group in an abandoned pharmaceutical building within the slums in two days. The name of the building is Kijiru Pharmaceuticals. There is mention of a trade¡ªShiver for venom. Unknown quantities.]

    "A trade? I see. Anything else?"

    [Negative. Extrapolation suggests the exchange will take place at 20:00 hours in two days.]

    Edith stood upright and clicked her tongue. "Well, well, well. I suppose that''s the most important thing. Looks like we''ve found ourselves a solid lead."

    Fii ruffled her hair in frustration. "Ugh! And I had to deal with all that teasing and harrassment for nothing!"

    Edith quirked a brow. "Teasing? Where''d you go? Did something happen?"

    Fii averted her eyes sheepishly. "Don''t ask. It''s embarrassing."

    Virgil cleared his throat. "That''s neither here nor there. More importantly, Fii, there''s one question you should be asking yourself right now."

    A question? What did he mean by that? Fii tried to think. A trade. Shiver and venom. What about it? It was already obvious that the Neon Vipers were¡ª

    Wait.

    "Why did one of the guys from the Neon Knights have that note on him in the first place?"

    Virgil snapped his fingers and pointed at her. "Exactly. Even though not many people could have figured out what it meant, this gang had that message in the first place. So what could that mean?" He looked at her expectantly, waiting for an answer.

    Fii''s mind raced. The Knights and the Vipers were supposed to be at each other''s throats, according to what she''d heard. It didn''t make sense that they''d be working together. So, maybe the guy who had it must have swiped the note from the Vipers somehow? Or maybe he''s a mole in the Knights posing as a grunt? This was getting complicated.

    She chewed her lip. "Either the guy that had it swiped the note from a Neon Viper, the Knights are in cahoots with the Vipers, or the Vipers have a mole planted within the Knights."

    "Right." Virgil nodded approvingly, clearly pleased by her response. "Or a combination of those, possibly. Any of those could explain how they got their hands on that scrap of paper. Unfortunately, we still don''t have the full picture yet. But, whatever the case may be, it doesn''t change what we''ll need to do next. In two days'' time, we''ll infiltrate the meet, and get to the bottom of this."

    Fii nodded sharply. "Sounds good to me. Let''s do this. Finally, some action!" She cracked her knuckles and pumped a fist excitedly.

    Virgil removed his hat and ran his fingers through his disheveled hair. "Actually, there''s one more problem. I don''t know where that building is."

    "Don''t you have a map of the slums in your basement?" Fii asked.

    "The one I have doesn''t have the names of specific buildings, just general locations," he clarified. "We''re gonna have to do some more legwork."

    "What about Helix? Maybe it has the building in its database or something."

    Edith looked back at her monitor. "Helix, do you have access to information on Kijiru Pharmaceuticals? Any related intel?"

    [Specific information regarding the pre-metropolis history of the slums is unavailable. Historical records are limited or missing due to lack of documentation.]

    "Not even old maps?"

    [Unavailable. All records relating to that time period prior to the metropolis expansion program have been purged or lost.]

    Edith sighed in annoyance. "Well, guess that''s another dead end." She removed her lab coat and slung it over her chair. "We''ll have to find out more information, then. See if anyone knows where this place is."

    Fii stretched languidly.

    Seemed like they had some more work to do. No one in the slums really knew the original names of these buildings, after all. Most of them weren''t even marked. Only a few street signs here and there were legible enough for people to recognize, and even those were fading with age and covered by graffiti.

    If Virgil''s map didn''t show any of the actual building names, then that meant they''d have to search through the entire slums¡ªone building at a time¡ªuntil they found the right location.

    Less than two days to do all that? No chance.

    They''d need to find a better map, or someone who actually knew what the area used to be. Someone would have to be older than dirt, though. So finding a map was the only option. Maybe a secondhand shop like Sumiki''s might have something like that, or maybe Orion might have an old map in his lib...rary...

    "Wait. Hang on," Fii gasped. She spun around to face Edith excitedly. "Orion. Orion runs the Gilded Library, right?"

    Edith glanced at her, confused at first, but then recognition dawned on her features as comprehension settled in. "Oh...right! There is an actual library still standing here. I completely forgot about that. You''re thinking that they might still have records of what the area used to be like, before the slums?"

    "Maybe. Worth a shot, I think." Fii glanced over at Virgil. "What do you think?"

    Virgil put his hat back on and grinned. "We can check. Let''s go."

 Chapter 28: Surveillance

    As the heavy doors swung open, Fii immediately caught sight of Orion behind his usual post at the front counter. He wore a crisp, white shirt and a navy vest, with a black tie draped loosely around his neck. His silver-flecked hair was slicked back, and his bright, hazel eyes twinkled in the dim light.

    He was absorbed in a leather-bound book, propping his head up with a hand. When he noticed Fii and Virgil enter the library, he straightened and closed the tome with a snap. He rose from his seat, smiling warmly.

    "Ah! Fii! Such a pleasure to see you again, dear girl! I see you''ve brought a friend." Orion turned to face Virgil with a beaming smile, extending his hand toward him. "Welcome to the Gilded Library, where knowledge awaits with open arms."

    Fii elbowed Virgil and whispered, "Say hello back, don''t be rude."

    "Ah, greetings." Virgil accepted Orion''s proffered hand and shook it, dipping his hat in greeting. "I take it you''re the owner of this establishment?"

    Orion inclined his head graciously. "Indeed. You must be quite a perceptive fellow." He withdrew his hand and tugged on his vest, smoothing the material. "Now, how may I be of service today?"

    Fii explained the situation briefly to Orion, explaining how they needed to obtain a detailed map of the slums, or at least a list of old building names and locations.

    "Ahh, I see." Orion stroked his chin thoughtfully. "I suppose I may be able to offer something along those lines." He adjusted his glasses and motioned for them to follow him. "Please, come this way. I may have something of use to you in our catalog."

    Orion led them deeper into the library, past rows of shelves and tables laden with books and scrolls, until they arrived at a circular reception desk, lit by the glow of several lamps hanging above it. An ornate globe of the earth and a brass lamp rested upon a round, wooden tabletop. His fingertips glided lightly over several dusty tomes and papers scattered across the surface before he pulled out a large scroll from the pile and unfurled it over the table. The parchment crinkled slightly under its own weight as Orion let go of the ends.

    The scroll showed a detailed layout of the slums, complete with street names and landmarks.

    Fii hardly recognized most of them, though. She guessed only a handful of the landmarks still existed. Everything else had probably fallen apart by now. The buildings surrounding those markers were likely replaced with shanties. It seemed like nothing stayed the same in the slums. Nothing, except this library, thankfully.

    "Interesting." Virgil gazed down at the ancient paper, studying the contents intently. He traced his finger along various routes and pathways. "This is actually incredibly detailed. This must be from the time period directly before the metropolis development project began."

    "Yes indeed," Orion agreed, nodding solemnly. "Some of these roads, alleyways, and intersections have changed since then, though I would assume you could extrapolate from this and your own knowledge to find what you''re looking for."

    Fii scanned the map, taking in every detail as best as she could.

    Kijiru Pharmaceuticals, Kijiru Pharmaceuticals, come on...be here somewhere... Fii squinted, straining her eyes, searching for any trace of the building''s name. After several minutes, she spotted a faint label scribbled in the far right corner of the parchment. The tiny marker was partially obscured by a watermark, but she could just barely make out the word "Kijiru."

    There! Gotcha, you little sucker.

    She jabbed her finger at the location, triumphant. "There!" She glanced over at Virgil, who had been observing her with mild amusement. "Look. Right there, Virgil."

    He bent over and squinted at where she was pointing. "Hmm, yep. Looks like this is the place. Seems like we owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Orion. This is exactly what we needed."

    Orion laughed cheerfully, waving away the comment with a wave of his hand. "Oh, pish-posh, please, such formality! Just call me Orion. Mister makes me feel so old!"

    "But you are old," Fii muttered under her breath, smirking.

    "Now, now, I heard that," Orion chided playfully, pinching Fii''s cheek in reproach. "I have excellent hearing for my age, you know."

    He smiled brightly at them and rubbed his hands together eagerly. "Anyway, I digress! We were talking about maps. Is there anything else you might need assistance locating? Any other information, perhaps?"

    Fii glanced around the room, her gaze falling upon stacks of old, discarded books lying on tables. "How about a book recommendation? Maybe something like a novel, or a fantasy story or something."

    "A book, you say? Yes, certainly." Orion circled around the receptionist counter and beckoned her forth, his hand hovering in the direction of a nearby bookshelf. "Perhaps I might interest you in one of these titles?"

    He indicated a collection of leather-bound novels lined up neatly on the shelves. A layer of dust coated the tops of their spines, giving them a faint, ethereal glow.

    Fii walked over, scrutinizing them carefully. Her eye caught on a particular title: The Saga of Ebonheim, Volume 1. She pulled out the book, running her thumb along the gold lettering embossed on its spine, then blew the dust off, causing tiny motes to scatter and disappear in the air. A soft, rich, pleasant aroma wafted from its pages, and she flipped the cover open to peek inside, inhaling the smell. "I like this one. Yeah, this is nice."

    "Wonderful! The Saga of Ebonheim is an excellent choice, a classic. Very entertaining." Orion tapped his chin with a fingertip, glancing down at the tome thoughtfully. "Though, do keep in mind that this story is incomplete. I don''t believe the author ever completed writing the rest of the series, sadly."

    "It''s okay. That''s fine," Fii assured. "I''ll make do. Thanks."

    "All right, I''ll add it to your borrowing record." Orion took the book from Fii''s hands and opened a ledger, scribbling in the entry with a fountain pen. As he wrote, he called over to Virgil, "And you, sir? Anything I might recommend for you? Or perhaps a certain type of book?"

    Virgil''s brows furrowed, and he shook his head. "Ah, no, thank you. I''m good, I suppose. It''s been a while since I last read a novel, or...anything." He hesitated, frowning thoughtfully. "I reckon I''d be hard-pressed to find much I enjoy, but I''ll keep an eye out."

    "Understood." Orion dipped the nib of his pen in a crystal inkwell, adding to the tally of Fii''s latest borrowing. He blotted the ink dry and handed Fii her new book, nodding amiably. "Feel free to browse around. I''ll be at the counter if either of you requires my help."

    Virgil nodded his thanks and walked off, leaving Fii to admire her new treasure.

    The rich smell of aged paper filled her nostrils, and the book felt oddly heavy in her hands. Its weight, the rough texture of its covers, the sound of paper rustling as she fanned the pages¡ªshe loved all of these things.

    Perfect! She grinned gleefully as she held it to her chest protectively, practically hugging it. Man, she couldn''t wait to dive in after they''d dealt with this Shiver problem.

    She headed out the door after waving goodbye to Orion. As she left the warmth of the library, she bumped into Virgil, who had been leaning against the wall outside. He raised an eyebrow and pushed off the wall. "All good?"

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    "Yep. So, I''m guessing the plan is to scout out the place first, then come back there in two days to crash their tradeoff, right?" Fii said as she tucked the book under one arm.

    "Pretty much, yeah," Virgil replied with a nod. "We''ll have to observe and make preparations for two days before we move in. During that time, we should learn as much about the area and the Vipers'' habits as possible. Figure out who to watch, where to stay out of sight. Stuff like that."

    "Cool, cool. Sounds good. Let''s hit it, then."

    "Based on what we saw on that map, I have a rough guess of where it is." Virgil lifted his chin, directing Fii to follow. "Let''s get a move on. We should be able to locate it before sunset."

    Fii smirked and placed her free hand on her hip, turning to face him. "Bet I can spot it quicker than you can."

    "Really?" Virgil cocked an eyebrow and tilted his head. "Care for a wager, then?"

    "Yeah, sure. Twenty Tinks says I''ll find it first. And you''d better pay up once we''re done." She stuck her hand out resolutely. "Deal?"

    "Thirty," Virgil challenged, taking Fii''s proffered palm. "And you''re on."

    <hr>

    "Sonovabitch," Virgil swore under his breath as he watched Fii scramble ahead. "That little hustler."

    She moved nimbly through the crowded alleys and pathways, using her smaller frame to her advantage. He narrowed his eyes, watching her slip past people and skid around corners effortlessly. Every turn he took led him further and further away from her.

    Damn, the girl was quick on her feet.

    Virgil scowled as he dodged a street vendor and shoved his way through a crowd of loiterers idling on the sidewalk. He spied a gap in the crowd and dove for it, trying to get a glimpse of Fii, who was steadily disappearing from view.

    He caught a brief flash of her white hair bobbing in and out of view before she vanished entirely. Sighing irritably, he broke into a jog. He cut a path through the throngs of people milling about, ignoring the curses flung his way as he maneuvered through the crowds.

    Virgil recalled that the map had shown the building situated close to an intersection of two main thoroughfares, near some large water towers. Based on the old landmarks he recognized, the building should be in the vicinity. He just had to locate the water towers first and start from there.

    He ducked his head and navigated through the maze of shanties and makeshift hovels, trying to pick out the familiar landmarks that matched the ones on the map. Finally, he spotted a few large, metal tankers perched atop a concrete platform, surrounded by rusting fencing and debris.

    That''s it! That''s the landmark. Now, where''s the building?

    He squinted, scanning the area. The structure itself wasn''t visible from his current position, but he knew it had to be nearby. He inched forward, keeping his eyes peeled for anything that resembled a warehouse or a factory. Suddenly, he spotted a cluster of dilapidated, concrete buildings rising from the rubble to his right.

    Bingo.

    "Took you long enough to find it!" Fii yelled from atop one of the water towers. She sat cross-legged with her elbow resting on one knee, chin cupped in her palm. "So, thirty Tinks, yeah?"

    "You hustled me," Virgil muttered flatly, gazing up at her. He scratched the back of his neck and sighed, digging into his pockets for the payment. "Didn''t think you''d notice the water towers on the map."

    Fii grinned slyly as she leaped from the tower and landed with catlike grace in front of him, holding out her open palms in front of her. "It''s not a hustle if you make a bet and lose fair and square. Cough it up."

    "Cheeky." He dropped the coins into her waiting hands, lips quirking upwards. "Guess I was wrong about you, kid. You know your stuff. A lot more than I gave you credit for."

    "Got that right," she bragged, pocketing her winnings. "So, what''s next?"

    Virgil gestured with a hand and started walking toward the derelict building. "Entry points, exit points, window vantage points, anything and everything we might need to know. Come on. I want to scope this place out properly."

    Fii followed him, skipping slightly as she trailed behind his long strides.

    As they approached the abandoned building, Virgil assessed its exterior, noting the faded, peeling paint on the walls and the broken windows. They circled the perimeter, examining the rear and side entrances. He observed Fii out of the corner of his eye as she climbed on top of a rickety old fence to get a better view.

    She reminded him of himself when he was younger, full of energy and excitement, with a thirst for adventure. She possessed a natural curiosity and an innate desire to explore, traits that he admired. Still, she lacked discipline and restraint, always rushing in without thinking. A quality like that could get her killed, and he was determined to keep that from happening.

    They proceeded to explore the interior of the building, weaving through the corridors and poking around corners. He tested the doorknobs, checking them for ease of entry and security. Fii searched the upper floors, scouring every crevice and alcove.

    As they worked their way around the building, Virgil''s mind wandered.

    The thug that he pilfered the note from flashed across his thoughts. The possibility of him being a Viper spy was not too far-fetched, but unlikely. It''d be stupid to carry around an important note like that on their person while posing as a Knight. A more likely scenario was that he looted it from a slain Viper and kept it for himself.

    Now the question was¡ªdid that guy or anyone else from the Neon Knights manage to understand the contents of the notes? If they did, they''ll probably make a move to stop this exchange from going through, too.

    The Neon Vipers are probably aware that this information got leaked out, which meant that they would be cautious about their deal. Would they take any extra measures to secure the location and make sure nobody else shows up besides the intended buyers? That depends on how confident they are. If they think they can handle any interruptions easily, then they might not bother doing anything special.

    Virgil considered the possibilities and potential risks. In the event of an all-out battle between rival gangs, at least it''d be contained within the premises instead of spilling out onto the streets. Less collateral damage. He could just let them duke it out and have Fii finish the job once the dust settles. Less hassle that way.

    The problem would be if the Neon Viper''s leader, "Cobra" Kasumi, were present. It''d been over a decade since he last encountered the infamous woman, but his memory of her skills was sharp and vivid. She''d be a tough fight for Fii, who lacked experience facing off against professional criminals.

    Well, as long as Fii doesn''t fight like an idiot, she should be fine.

    "Hey, Virgil."

    "Hm?" He glanced over at Fii, snapping back to reality. "What?"

    Fii shrugged, stretching her arms above her head. "Nothing much. I''ve been rambling nonstop, but you didn''t make your usual snarky comments. Spaced out?"

    Virgil shook his head. "Nah, just...thinking, I suppose. So, what did you say?"

    Fii repeated herself, recounting what she found out while exploring the building. "The inside is kinda trashed. Buncha broken furniture and old equipment everywhere. No sign of anyone living here, surprisingly. Could be because the gangs cleared out all the squatters beforehand. Makes sense. Not like the Vipers will want anybody stumbling in on their business during a deal like that."

    "Fair point." Virgil nodded slowly, contemplating the ramifications. "What about the upper levels? Find anything useful?"

    "Not really." Fii ran a hand through her short white hair, scratching her scalp absentmindedly. "Just a bunch of empty rooms. No furniture or beds or anything like that. Just junk everywhere, with lots of broken windows." She kicked at a pile of rubble with the toe of her sneaker, sending chunks of concrete scattering across the floor.

    She hopped to a window ledge and perched on the edge, swinging her legs back and forth lazily. "There''s a fire escape out here, though. Good for getting in and out."

    Virgil examined the rusted steel railing, his eyes trailing to the ground below. "Seems stable enough. Keep that in mind for when we return. Are there any other access points?"

    "Yeah, there''s a back door that leads to an alleyway, and a stairwell that goes down to a parking garage in the basement," Fii reported, counting off with her fingers. "Other than that, there''s just a front entrance that''s pretty exposed, but we can sneak around using the side streets nearby. There are some nice nooks and crannies for hiding in. Good places to set up a stakeout, maybe."

    Virgil mentally filed away the information, absorbing her words with a nod of approval. "How much you wanna bet that they''ll make the trade in the basement?"

    "Basement? Why there?" Fii tilted her head. "Wouldn''t upstairs be safer, where they can see anybody coming in? Nobody wants to do a drug deal in a creepy dungeon, y''know. That''s where you''d go to die. Also, cobwebs." She shuddered dramatically, shaking her head in disgust. "Ugh."

    Virgil rolled his eyes, amused. "Because of the secrecy of the deal, they''ll most likely want to conduct the transaction somewhere hidden. The basement provides easy access to exits and vehicles, and gives the buyers an escape route. Plus, the dim lighting helps obscure any suspicious actions or weapons. It''s easier to hide in the shadows there and catch potential intruders off guard."

    "Huh." Fii stared blankly at the space between her feet. "Neat, I guess. Good point."

    Virgil peered outside through a hole in the glass, where he could just make out the distant street lights flickering in the fading twilight.

    "Looks like the day''s almost over. Time to head back. Come on." He extended his hand toward her, gesturing towards the exit. "We''ll be back in two days to wrap this up. Until then, keep in mind what we just talked about, and practice what you''ve learned. I expect you to be on top of your game."

    Fii jumped off the ledge and strolled over, shoving her hands in her jacket pockets. "Got it, boss man."

 Chapter 29: Triple Showdown

    Axion and Virgil waited in the shadows, crouching behind a dumpster in the alleyway adjacent to the parking garage entrance. The moon cast a faint light over the cracked pavement and graffiti-covered walls, illuminating the rustling trash and stray cats prowling nearby.

    As the time of the rendezvous drew near, Axion fidgeted, restless. She flexed her fingers, drumming them nervously against her thigh. "Do you think they''ll show? What if they don''t?" she asked, her voice low and quiet.

    "They''ll show," Virgil murmured, his eyes fixed on the building''s entrance. "The Neon Vipers wouldn''t risk losing this opportunity. Their supplier has something they need, and they won''t leave empty-handed. Trust me. These guys are too greedy for that."

    "Okay. So, what happens when they come out?" Axion inquired, clenching her fists and pressing her back against the wall. "Should we attack them right away, or...?"

    "We''ll need to wait until the deal''s done to confirm that the supplier is here. Once we have a visual, you can take out the Vipers while I deal with the supplier. Be careful and remember to remain calm and focused. Don''t hesitate and strike hard. No mercy." Virgil paused to gauge her reaction. "Got all that?"

    Axion swallowed and nodded, inhaling deeply. "Yeah, got it. But I still think you''re a bit of a jerk for making me do most of the work here."

    Virgil snorted in amusement and patted her on the shoulder. "You''re the superhero here, not me. Might as well put all that training to use now, hmm? Besides, it''s good practice for you."

    "Fine, whatever," Axion huffed, folding her arms defensively.

    As they waited, Axion strained her ears, listening for the slightest sound. Her gaze darted between the building and the alleyway, alert for any sign of movement. The minutes ticked by slowly, feeling more and more like hours.

    Eventually, the muffled sound of a vehicle engine echoed through the stillness of the night air. A dark, armored van pulled up to the parking garage''s entrance, pausing briefly at the gate before rolling through and disappearing underground.

    Axion glanced at Virgil, who gave a confirming nod. "That''s them," he whispered. "We''ll wait for a couple of minutes, then head inside. Let them settle in first."

    The pair crept from the cover of the dumpster and made their way carefully toward the side entrance of the building. Once inside, they crept silently through the darkened hallway, straining to detect any noises from deeper within the complex. Voices gradually became audible as they advanced cautiously through the corridors.

    Soon, Axion could distinguish sounds of conversation coming from the parking garage beneath them. As they reached the basement level, Virgil stopped at the top of a staircase leading down, cocking his ear in the direction of the voices below. He pressed a finger to his lips and motioned for Axion to follow him, guiding her alongside the railing overlooking the lower floor.

    When they reached a turn in the corridor, he crouched low and peeked around the corner. He held up a hand, signaling for her to hang back and stay silent.

    Axion peeked around his broad shoulders and over a dozen men gathered in a semicircle, facing a hooded figure in the center.

    The dealer spoke, his voice echoing off the walls: "...and you have my guarantee that the product will meet your requirements. No other supplier can offer what I can."

    One of the Neon Vipers stepped forward¡ªa woman with long, straight black hair tied back into a high ponytail. She wore a black leather jacket and matching pants, paired with a pair of black high heels. Her lips were painted a deep red and adorned with a silver snake bite piercing, and her eyes were heavily lined with black eyeliner. She held a thin metal briefcase in her gloved hand, stepping closer to the dealer.

    She must be that "Cobra" Kasumi person. Wow, she''s actually scary-looking.

    She extended her arm, offering the case to the cloaked individual. "You have what we need. We''d better not be wasting our time with inferior product."

    The dealer took the case and opened it, revealing rows of small vials containing a bright blue liquid. He inspected each container carefully, his face obscured by his hood. "These are satisfactory." He snapped the case closed and handed it to one of his bodyguards.

    He then picked up his own briefcase and placed it on the hood of a nearby car. He unbuckled the latches and pulled the lid open, revealing rows of syringes packed tightly inside. He turned and held out a vial toward Kasumi, motioning for her to take it.

    "I trust you''ll find this batch even better. The formula has been refined and improved."

    Kasumi tilted her chin, her expression cold and unreadable. She grabbed a syringe from the case and examined it closely, flicking the needle with her thumb. She slid the tip of the syringe into the vial, drawing out a sample of the blue liquid. She studied it for a moment, then flicked her eyes back toward the dealer. "You''d better not be trying to pull a fast one on us, or you''re going to regret it."

    She returned the sample to the case and turned to the other Vipers. "Alright, let''s load it up."

    The members of the gang dispersed, breaking apart the circle and spreading out. Some went to the van, while others remained behind to assist Kasumi.

    The dealer backed away, reaching out to grab another of his bodyguards and murmur something into his ear. His servant nodded and trotted back upstairs, disappearing through the doorway behind them.

    Crap! They might have seen us!

    Panic gripped Axion. She tugged on Virgil''s sleeve urgently and pointed at the departing henchman.

    Virgil held his hand out and made a fist, telling her to hold still. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, leaning forward to whisper in her ear. "Steady, don''t give away our position. They haven''t seen us yet."

    The two of them remained hidden, remaining perfectly still as Kasumi finished her business.

    Once the cases had been loaded, she marched up to the dealer, looming threateningly. "If this doesn''t pan out, I''m coming after you."

    He nodded. "Of course, Ms. Yamaguchi. You''ll have your product within a month''s time, as agreed. Now, if you''ll excuse me..."

    Suddenly, the sound of boots pounding against concrete reverberated through the room. From the ramp leading to the upper level, a group of Neon Knight gang members charged into view, wielding pipe guns and an assortment of melee weapons. They rushed the Vipers, firing indiscriminately, sending bullets and shrapnel flying through the air.

    Kasumi and her crew responded in kind, ducking and dodging the projectiles, firing back with their own firearms. She dove to the ground and rolled out of the way, springing up on the other side of the van. She lifted her pistol and fired a round of shots into the melee, dropping two Knights to the ground.

    The dealer seized the chance and ducked out of the line of fire, retreating to the opposite end of the garage with his bodyguard close behind.

    A few of the other Knights followed after him, but were cut off by Kasumi and her men. They exchanged gunfire, pinning each other in place, exchanging rounds at point-blank range. The sound of lead smashing into flesh and bone echoed off the concrete walls.

    "Let''s move, kid. Now''s our chance!" Virgil hissed, prodding her towards the chaos.

    "Y-you got it!" Axion replied. She stumbled forward, shaking off her trepidation, and dashed off toward the combatants.

    She saw Virgil dash around the fray and stalk the dealer and his escort as they retreated.

    Meanwhile, Axion veered around the parking garage, narrowly avoiding getting shot by several gangsters. She took cover behind a pillar and tried to assess the situation. The fighting continued, with more gang members charging in from the ramp to join the fight. The bodies of dead and dying Knights and Vipers littered the floor, their blood seeping into the cracks between the concrete slabs.

    Damn it, it''s a mess down here. Where the hell do I even start!?

    As Axion prepared to launch into action, she heard a clicking noise behind her. She spun around in surprise as a man emerged from a darkened corner of the garage, brandishing a sword.

    He raised his weapon, as if preparing to strike even though he was a few meters away.

    Axion''s LED eyes widened in shock as the man flicked his wrist, and the blade split into multiple segments, becoming a long, flexible segmented whip.

    He swung the whip toward her, the extension catching her off-guard, and Axion barely managed to dodge out of the way as the whistling metal passed above her, striking the pillar she had been standing in front of, knocking chips of concrete onto the floor.

    Woah! Who is this guy!?

    Axion scrambled backward, and as she regained her footing, she saw the man lunge towards her again, sword-whip raised high. She reacted instinctively, throwing herself to one side as the whip crashed down beside her, smashing into the ground and creating a shower of sparks.

    He''s fast!

    The man shouted over the noise of the surrounding battle, "Kasumi! We''ve got a pest here. It''s that Axion punk everyone''s been talking about!"

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    Kasumi paused mid-firefight, eyes narrowing in recognition. "That Super managed to sniff us out?" she snarled, leaping from behind the van. "Tsk. Go take care of her, Vaughn. I''ll finish here."

    The man called Vaughn nodded, his gaze locking on Axion, "With pleasure, Cobra." He swung his sword whip toward her with blinding speed, forcing her to jump out of the way as the sharp metal whistled past. "What''s wrong, little Super? Can''t even stand up against a simple thug like me? How pathetic."

    Axion gulped. This thug seemed like bad news. At least the others were busy killing each other. That gave her the chance to focus on her opponent.

    His eyes blazed with confidence as he struck the ground, the length of the whip tearing a wide gash in the concrete floor. He cocked his arm back, whirling the whip over his head before sending it snapping towards her again, the steel tip singing as it sliced through the air. She dove out of the way, but the segmented whip grazed her jacket, cutting into the fabric.

    That was close! This Vaughn guy seems like a big shot. Must be Cobra''s number two.

    Axion steadied herself, her adrenaline kicking in. "Who says I can''t!?" she retorted as she dashed forward, aiming a punch at his gut.

    He blocked her attack with his free hand, pivoting on the ball of his foot and countering with a swift kick to her stomach.

    She grunted as his boot connected, the blow sending her reeling back.

    "Hmph. For a Super, you''re nothing special." Vaughn''s tone was mocking, the smirk on his lips widening.

    He unleashed another furious barrage of slashes, whipping his sword from left to right, forcing Axion to evade his attacks while he gained momentum.

    Axion gasped as the sharpened metal narrowly missed her head, grazing past her helmet.

    The tail of his whip-blade swept around to her left, and she leapt to the right, only to find that he was already there waiting, anticipating her move. He smiled smugly as he sent his weapon sweeping across her torso, shredding the front of her jacket and slashing at her bodysuit underneath.

    She screamed as the blade cut deep, drawing blood. She rolled onto her back, clutching the wound with a shaking hand, watching as Vaughn leisurely flipped the whip over in his grip, splattering the ground with drops of her blood.

    "I don''t know what kind of power you''re supposed to have, but from what I''ve seen so far, it doesn''t seem like much of anything," he said condescendingly, glancing at the gashes he had inflicted upon her.

    "Shut up!" Axion growled as she forced herself back to her feet, despite her injury.

    She needed to buy some time so she could focus and formulate a strategy. But what strategy? She''d never fought against someone with a weapon like that before. It would have been better if he just used a gun.

    Think, Fii, THINK! What would Virgil do? He always has a plan! Use that brain of yours and...wait, I got it! If I can get close enough, I can pin him with my powers! Then all I need to do is punch him in the face! Damn it! Why didn''t I do that before? Stupid, stupid!

    <hr>

    Axion crouched low, her muscles coiled like springs as she eyed Vaughn, ready to move at a moment''s notice. The cacophony of gunfire and clashing metal filled the air, both gangs trading blows.

    Vaughn stood tall, his shoulders relaxed as he swished his whip sword back and forth, as if taunting her, daring her to approach. "What''s wrong? Got nothing left?" He chuckled derisively.

    She could feel her power thrumming inside of her, its energy radiating throughout her body, tingling along her arms and legs. "Just testing the waters. It''d be a shame if I knocked you out too quick," she joked, a surge of bravado flooding her veins.

    His brows furrowed at her flippant tone, his expression hardening as he glared at her with icy contempt. "You should be begging for mercy by now," he said, raising the whip higher, readying himself for another strike.

    She knew what to do; all she had to do now was act. She shifted her weight onto her toes, her gaze fixed intently upon his movements. Every muscle in her body tightened as she prepared to lunge. She wanted to wipe that infuriating look off his face.

    The air around her seemed to shimmer as she manipulated the gravity around her body, lightening her weight.

    With a burst of speed, she launched herself toward Vaughn. He swung his whip-sword in a wide arc, but she was already in the air, gravity¡¯s hold on her lessened. She twisted, the weapon missing her by mere centimeters, before landing on her feet and closing the distance between them.

    Time to flatten him.

    But just as she was about to increase the gravity between them, a flicker of movement from below her periphery caught her attention and she instinctively recoiled as the whip-sword sliced through the space where her head would have been. The motion cost her, and Vaughn kicked her in the chest, knocking her to the ground.

    "Argh!" Axion groaned, sprawling on her back.

    Shit, shit! I was so close!

    "Predictable." Vaughn brought the whip-sword down, and she rolled to the side just in time to avoid being sliced in half.

    The ground where she had landed was marred with deep scratches, and she grimaced at the thought of what would''ve happened if that hit had landed.

    Vaughn backed away, continuing to keep his distance while maintaining a wary posture, but he appeared to have become a lot more cautious than before, as if he knew he wasn''t dealing with an amateur. "You''re surprisingly tenacious, little Super. Not that it''ll change anything in the end."

    Damn, I underestimated him! This Vaughn guy''s no joke. I need to stop playing around! Focus! FOCUS!

    For a moment, they circled each other, both seeking an opening.

    In a split second, Axion made her move. She bolted towards an adjacent wall by Vaughn''s flank, dashing sideways while lowering her center of mass.

    Vaughn whipped at her with lightning speed, but this time, Axion anticipated his attack. She kept her momentum and moved to avoid the blade, the weapon cutting through the air directly behind her.

    She sprang toward the wall, her feet finding purchase where there should have been none, kicking off from it and somersaulting in midair as she zeroed in on Vaughn.

    He turned, surprise flickering across his face as Axion descended. But he recovered quickly, extending his whip to meet her mid-air.

    Axion twisted, narrowly avoiding a lethal embrace with the segmented blade. She barreled into him, tackling him with all of her enhanced strength, slamming him against the ground in a hail of dust and debris. His weapon clattered away from his grasp as she pinned him against the floor, holding him down with all of her weight.

    Vaughn grunted, struggling to throw her off. She twisted his arms behind his back, attempting to keep him restrained. He jerked upward, his back colliding with her injured side. Axion winced, the pain causing her to falter, and in an instant, he flipped their positions.

    Now on top, Vaughn reached for her throat, his fingers encircling her neck tightly and squeezing.

    "Urk!" Axion choked, gasping for air.

    Vaughn laughed, grinning maliciously as he pressed harder. "Good try, Super. I''ll admit, I didn''t expect you to be this entertaining. It''s too bad I can''t play with you longer."

    Her plan didn''t entirely pan out the way she wanted, but at least he was within her range now.

    Axion concentrated, channeling her power to increase the gravity around her and Vaughn. She felt the graviton particles shift around her, affecting the gravitational field around their bodies.

    With a burst of effort, she amplified the gravity, doubling and then tripling the pull on Vaughn. He collapsed on top of her, unable to move. His fingers slackened their grip around her throat, and he groaned, the breath driven from his lungs.

    "What...what the hell is this?!" The man squirmed as the force increased, unable to lift his chest or support his weight on his arms.

    She pushed him off of her, sitting upright, and punched him squarely in the jaw while amplified by the increased gravity. His head snapped back, his mouth open in a silent scream as his cheekbone shattered beneath the impact.

    As quickly as she had increased the gravity, Axion released it, and Vaughn toppled to the side, unconscious.

    "Take that, jackass," she muttered, panting as she rolled over and sat up.

    It worked! Awesome! YES! In your FACE! That was...okay, I might be getting ahead of myself a little bit. But still, WIN!

    Vaughn lay motionless on the floor, bleeding from his nose and mouth.

    Axion staggered to her feet, scanning the room for her next target.

    The sounds of the ongoing fight had died down, leaving only the ringing echoes of spent bullet casings bouncing along the ground. In the center of the parking garage, Kasumi and a few Neon Vipers stood over the bloody and battered forms of the remaining Neon Knight members.

    "No! N-no!" one of the defeated gang members cried out, holding his hands in front of his face, pleading for his life.

    Kasumi coldly sneered, "Cute. You Knights thought you could take us on? I''ll show you what happens when you make an enemy out of the Neon Vipers." She shot the groveling thug in the head, and the lifeless body fell limp.

    "Kill them," Kasumi commanded her soldiers. "Don''t leave a single one alive."

    The last few Neon Knights were executed without mercy, their pleas for forgiveness falling on deaf ears.

    Axion''s eyes locked with Kasumi, who stared directly back at her. The woman narrowed her eyes and reloaded her gun before pointing the barrel at her. "You...you''re that Axion brat, aren''t you? Yeah, you definitely fit the description." Her gaze lowered to the crumpled heap that was once Vaughn lying unconscious at her feet. "Huh, impressive. I didn''t expect you to last so long against Vaughn."

    Her expression darkened, her eyes turning to slits as she pointed her pistol at Axion. "How did you find out about this deal? You must have really stuck your nose where it didn''t belong."

    The surviving Neon Vipers leveled their weapons at her, standing by their leader''s side.

    "It doesn''t matter," Kasumi added, taking aim. "Die."

    They all fired simultaneously, unleashing a hailstorm of bullets in her direction.

    Axion''s LED eyes flared blue, her power activating instinctively. The gravitons around her fluctuated as she altered her gravitational field, forming a protective barrier around her.

    The bullets whizzed through the air, the pull of the gravitational field bending their paths slightly, altering their trajectories. The projectiles veered away from her, ricocheting off the ground and the surrounding walls, pinging harmlessly around her.

    Axion breathed a sigh of relief as the firing ceased, and the smoke began to clear.

    Kasumi and the other Neon Vipers stared wide-eyed in disbelief, their weapons smoking at their sides. She holstered her pistol and spat angrily, "Get in the van and get out of here. We''re leaving. NOW!"

    She strode briskly to the idling vehicle, hopping in and slamming the door shut behind her. The Vipers scrambled to follow suit, loading the wounded into the vehicle, while those still able to walk assisted their comrades.

    Oh no you don''t!

    Axion sprinted after the gangsters, channeling the gravitons around her body. She leaped through the air, the force of her jump carrying her effortlessly across the entire garage.

    The van''s tires squealed as Kasumi floored the accelerator, the vehicle lurching forward with a screech.

    But Axion had other plans.

    As she neared the fleeing van, she brought her leg down hard on the ground, unleashing a rippling shockwave that raced outward, the ground cracking beneath her heel. The wave smashed into the undercarriage of the vehicle, shaking it violently as the tremors tore through its metal frame.

    Kasumi lost control, and the van skidded sideways, colliding into the wall with a loud crunch. The impact sent a shower of glass and twisted metal exploding outward, peppering the parking garage with debris. The front of the van crunched inward, and its engine stalled with a hiss of steam.

    A message flickered to life in front of Axion''s visor. On the left-hand side of the display, the letters "TSFI" appeared, along with a number which flashed a bright yellow:

    [TFSI: 0.54]

    She didn''t need a number to tell her that her leg felt the strain of that attack. A dull ache throbbed through her feet, shin, and thigh, but she ignored it as she walked to the wreckage.

    The driver-side door flew open and Kasumi spilled out of the vehicle, cradling her head and glaring daggers at her.

    "Bitch. I''ll kill you..." she grumbled, blood trickling from a cut above her right eye.

    Axion cracked her knuckles as she approached her. "Sorry, can''t hear you, talk a little louder? It''s probably because you''re about to get knocked out."

 Chapter 30: Cat and Mouse

    In the dim, echoey expanse of the parking garage, Axion faced off with the Neon Viper gang boss, Kasumi. A short distance away, her henchmen frantically tried to pull themselves together from the crash, slowly getting to their feet. Behind Axion, a beaten and unconscious Vaughn lay flat on the cold floor.

    Just have to beat this person and all this will be over. Dealing with the rest of the thugs will be easy after that.

    Axion inspected their leader, trying to glean as much information as possible from her appearance and mannerisms. Her eyes scanned the woman from head to toe, analyzing her gear and clothing. Aside from the same dark leather jacket and black combat boots as the other Vipers, she also wore a utility belt around her waist. There were a lot of knives attached to it. Two were tucked away in a sheath on each thigh, and two more in her boots, one on the outside and one on the inner ankle.

    Hm, so she likes knives, huh? Shouldn''t be a problem. They were easier to deal with than bullets, and if she tried to stab her, then she''d end up like Vaughn over there.

    Her gloves though...there was something odd about them. The palms looked fairly normal, aside from the fact that they were covered in nicks and scrapes. But the backs of her hands...they shone with a dull metallic glint in the dim light of the garage. They weren''t just regular leather, that''s for sure. Maybe they were armored?

    There were a bunch of tiny tubes and wires running to and fro across them, with small, round nodules lining the knuckles. It kinda reminded her of Rao''s prosthetic arm. Although she didn''t really want to experience her punches first-hand, she had a hunch those gloves packed a decent punch.

    Whatever. No matter what tricks Kasumi had up her sleeve, the plan stayed the same¡ªget close, amp the gravity, and then knock her out.

    Simple. Hopefully.

    Axion raised her fists and dropped into a low crouch. She had the advantage and she intended to press it.

    Without warning, she burst forward, dashing straight toward the woman.

    The gang leader narrowed her eyes, reaching for the pistol in her holster. Axion let out a triumphant yell and extended her arm, preparing to grab her and bring her gravitational field to bear.

    Then she saw it¡ªa faint glimmer whizzing through the air. Instinctively, Axion leaped aside, her body responding faster than thought. The air where she had just stood hissed and sparked as something razor-thin sliced through it, leaving a trail of luminous sparks.

    Axion rolled to her feet, her eyes darting back and forth in confusion.

    What the hell?!

    Her gaze tracked the thin strands of wires to Kasumi, who held her arms out in front of her. The tips of her fingers bore small metal nodes, from which the wires snaked out and whipped through the air. She flicked her wrists, and the lines danced like a living thing, undulating and twisting, reflecting the lights of the parking garage.

    "Heh. Surprised?" Kasumi smirked, flexing her fingers. "This is why I only use these babies on Super types."

    Axion swallowed, her eyes fixed on the writhing wires. What were they?

    As if reading her mind, Edith''s voice crackled over her comms.

    <Axion, those are nanofilament wires, ultra-strong and capable of slicing through armor plating. Be careful.>

    Nano-what now? Huh, cool! No, wait. That''s not cool, that''s very not-cool! Extremely not-cool, in fact. Actually, pretty damn terrifying!

    "Thanks for the heads-up," Axion muttered under her breath as she backed away. "Really wish you could have said something when I was fighting the other guy with that weird sword."

    <I didn''t want to distract you. But this time, you really need to be careful. Your suit is made out of a nanoweave fiber composite, but nanofilaments will be able to cut through even that, just like how that sword-whip did. Take her on in close quarters, and it''ll be like swimming through a pool of razors.>

    Okay, this is bad. This is really, really bad. How am I supposed to take this woman down now?!

    "Do you have any idea how I can use my power to get around that?" Fii asked.

    <Beats me. Just ask yourself, what would Virgil do?>

    "I don''t have a gun..." She shot Kasumi a worried glance and slowly sidestepped to the left. If she was going to figure out a way to take her on, she needed to stay out of the range of those blades.

    Kasumi followed her movements, shifting in tandem with her, a bemused smirk on her face.

    <Maybe you can change the path of the nanofilaments if you create a gravitational field between them and the ground?> Edith suggested. <But then again, they have so little mass that I doubt you''ll be able to affect them significantly. To be honest, I''m not exactly sure how effective that would even be. Sorry, that''s all I''ve got.>

    Ugh, great. Nothing about this is great!

    Axion tried to quash the fear that crept into her mind. She couldn''t hesitate if she wanted to survive this, but how could she win when she had no clue how to counter that nano-wire thingamabob?

    Kasumi tilted her head and nodded at Axion''s jacket. "Nice threads you''ve got there. I''ll have to try not to shred it before I take it off of your dismembered corpse."

    She whipped her arm around, and a handful of her deadly wires shot forth, coiling through the air in a furious wave of deadly, sparkling light.

    Axion''s vision snapped into focus. She concentrated, feeling the familiar pull of gravity lessen around her, granting her body the freedom to move faster and more fluidly. She pushed off the ground and launched herself into a smooth backflip, arcing over the deadly wires as they whipped harmlessly by.

    She landed gracefully on the other side and crouched low, her LED eyes narrowing into slits. Her heart hammered in her chest, and she took a deep breath, letting the adrenaline course through her veins.

    Gotta keep it together. Stay focused.

    The open space of the garage played to Kasumi''s strength. Axion''s reach with her abilities was only at arm''s length, and with all those wires, she would never be able to close the gap without coming under fire. So, she needed to lure her enemy in. Make her commit while keeping the terrain in her favor. And how best to do that...?

    Ah, that''s it! Bring her upstairs. To the smaller rooms. The corridors. Get her into an enclosed environment with a confined space and lots of cover. That should work!

    Axion made a mad dash for the staircase entrance, dodging another flurry of wires as she ran. She rounded the corner and glanced over her shoulder. Kasumi followed her at a leisurely pace, chuckling as she pulled the wires back into her hands. "Going somewhere?" she called out. "I thought you wanted to finish our game, sweetie."

    Sweetie? Whatever. Atleast she''s taking the bait!

    <hr>

    In the stairwell, the fight intensified. Kasumi used the nanowires to slice through the railings, but Axion jumped through the gaps, vaulting over the obstacles. Her legs burned as she sprinted up the steps, and the pain from her earlier injuries flared, but she pushed it aside and focused on evading the vicious onslaught of wires chasing after her.

    At one point, Axion stumbled, her foot slipping on the stairs.

    Kasumi seized the opportunity, the nanowire slicing through the air towards Axion''s head.

    In a split-second decision, Axion manipulated her gravitational field, anchoring herself to the spot. The wire missed her by a hair''s breadth, sparking against the wall behind her.

    The gang leader cursed and retracted her wire. "Stop moving, dammit!" she snarled.

    "Yeah, not gonna happen. See ya later!" With a final burst of speed, Axion reached the doorway to the second floor.

    She found herself in a derelict office, the remnants of furniture scattered throughout the room. Windows lined one wall, offering a view of the city streets far below, while the opposite wall was adorned with a faded company logo. The room''s entrance led to a corridor with multiple doors leading to other offices, allowing for multiple avenues of escape or ambush.

    Perfect. Let''s see how she does in here!

    She zig-zagged through the room, using the cubicles and desks as cover. Kasumi paused at the door and glanced around, sizing the place up. Her lips curled into a smile as she strode casually in after her, casually trailing her wires in her wake. "Getting tired, hero?" She paused at an abandoned desk and picked up a chair.

    Before she could react, the chair came flying through the air.

    Axion dove behind a partition wall as the projectile shattered, sending splinters of wood raining down on her.

    Kasumi continued her relentless pursuit, whipping her wires at Axion. Each strike cut deep gashes in the walls and destroyed any objects in their path.

    Axion weaved and ducked, avoiding most of the blows, but the few that connected inflicted superficial cuts¡ªstill hurt like crazy, though¡ªon her arms and legs. The pain slowed her down, sapping her momentum as she forced her burning muscles to propel her from obstacle to obstacle.

    She crashed through the door leading to another room, the ceiling partially collapsed, exposing the room to the elements. Raindrops pelted down from the night sky, soaking her and the concrete floor beneath her. The full moon, pale and cold, cast a silvery glow throughout the room, illuminating the space with its faint, ethereal light.

    The wires sliced through the wooden doorframe, the panels disintegrating in an explosion of jagged wooden splinters.

    Axion leaped aside, scrambling away from the doorway. The deadly projectiles cut through the space where she had just been, the sparkling tendrils whirling through the air as if in a dance.

    Axion threw herself to the ground, rolling behind a steel cabinet.

    She channeled her power, pushing her gravitational field outwards to envelop the cabinet. She grabbed onto the base and lifted it off the ground.

    As soon as Kasumi appeared in the doorway, she threw the heavy cabinet at her.

    The gangster swore loudly and deflected the makeshift projectile with her wires, slicing through the metal. The ruined fragments clattered to the floor, sliding past her, but the diversion gave Axion an opening.

    She sprinted straight at her, determined to close the distance before Kasumi could recover. She knew that her only chance at beating the woman was to get within arm''s reach of her.

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    Before Axion could reach her, Kasumi unleashed her wires, the glittering filaments whipping through the air, slicing through the walls and ceiling as they raced toward Axion. Axion reacted reflexively, pivoting on her foot to dodge the barrage of attacks, her gravitational field helping to shift her weight and guide her through the storm of cutting metal. But as she closed in on the gang leader, she spotted the smirk on Kasumi''s face.

    Her instincts screamed for her to stop, and she skidded to a halt, barely avoiding the web of wires spread across the room. The thin, razor-sharp wires blanketed the room, suspended at varying heights, effectively sealing off any means of approaching the gang leader without getting sliced to pieces in the process.

    "Tsk. Missed." Kasumi smiled, raising her hand once more. "Let''s try that again."

    Axion''s eyes widened as the wires converged on her.

    Edith''s frantic voice sounded through her comm. <Move, Axion! MOVE!>

    No way around but¡ª

    Axion concentrated the gravitons under her foot and brought it down with a powerful stomp, crushing the concrete floor and sending fissures spiderwebbing from the epicenter. She plunged through the cracks and down to the level below. As she plummeted, she manipulated her gravitational field, softening her landing and absorbing the impact, rolling to a stop on the broken tiles.

    [TFSI: 0.57]

    She struggled to her feet, wincing as the sharp, stinging sensations emanating from her foot intensified.

    Ouch...owww...that hurts. Well, it could have gone worse, but at least I''m alive.

    She looked up at the hole she had left in the ceiling and saw Kasumi''s silhouette looming above. "Not bad," Kasumi called out. "Good maneuverability, excellent reaction time. Very impressive. However..."

    Kasumi tossed a canister into the room, the object clattering on the floor, leaving a trail of yellow smoke as it rolled to a stop.

    "...That won''t save you now." She disappeared from the edge of the hole as the smoke billowed downward, filling the room with a pungent, sulfurous odor.

    <Get out of there!> Edith cried out. <That''s a chemical weapon! Your helmet doesn''t have filters for toxic substances. Don''t breathe it in!>

    "Don''t have to tell me twice!" Axion coughed, staggering backward. Her eyes stung from the fumes, and she blinked back tears as she dove through the door and out of the room. She slammed the door shut behind her, sealing off the cloud of noxious smoke, and sucked in a grateful breath of fresh air.

    Through the transparent lenses of her helmet, Fii caught movement. Her eyes darted to her left, and she saw Kasumi emerge from a different room and weave a multitude of shimmering strands into the air with a flourish of her arms.

    Axion scrambled back, desperately dodging the deadly lattice of metal, which tore into the walls and floor, leaving long, jagged cuts in the surfaces.

    She dove into the hallway behind her, leaping out of the way of the closing net of wires. She steadied herself against the wall and stood up, wiping the dust off of her helmet.

    "Is that all you''ve got, Axion?!"

    Kasumi stalked her through the maze of corridors and empty offices, a wicked grin plastered across her face, her nanofilaments twirling in the air, dancing in tune with the rhythmic rise and fall of her fists. Her smug, self-assured swagger and steady gait contrasted with the panic coursing through Fii''s body.

    Damn it! Tight spaces should have been helpful for me. Instead, I''m the one being backed into a corner. Those nano-things are insane.

    How was she supposed to beat someone who could literally block any movement she made? Her options seemed limited to dodging or throwing things around, but Kasumi always kept her distance. Worse yet, the longer this dragged on, the greater her odds of making a fatal mistake, like tripping over a loose tile or misjudging the trajectory of the wires.

    There had to be a way. She just wasn''t seeing it yet. Think, Fii! THINK!

    <hr>

    Blood dripped from the numerous cuts all over Axion''s body, creating a trail that marked her path through the complex. The exertion of maintaining her power combined with the effects of her wounds sapped her stamina. Her arms ached, and her movements became more sluggish. Sweat soaked her suit, stinging her countless scratches and scrapes as the fabric chafed against her skin.

    She didn''t know how long she could last like this. Not long, based on her current state. The fight had to end. Now.

    Yet, every attempt to engage Kasumi ended in a failed attack or a narrow escape. It was like she had an answer to everything Axion tried. Every move. Every trick.

    Something had to give. And she hoped it would be Kasumi.

    In the meantime, Axion was stuck running from room to room, putting as much distance as possible between herself and the relentless gang leader.

    She bolted through an office with a window on the opposite wall and leapt over an overturned table, the air whizzing as the wires lashed past her. A trail of slashes crisscrossed the area, tearing chunks out of the furniture and walls. Wooden splinters filled the air, pelting her as she scrambled to her feet and charged the exit. She didn''t stop as she entered the adjacent room, her shoes skidding against the slippery floor.

    "The hell are you going, hero?" Kasumi demanded. The thump of her boots reverberated on the ground, punctuating each step. The sound echoed through the hallways as she pursued her. "C''mon, fight like a Super already. None of this running bullshit. Stop wasting both of our time, and stand and fight."

    And get sliced to ribbons before I can do anything? Sure, let me just do that. Idiot.

    Axion huffed, too winded to form a coherent response, and instead, she frantically scanned the surroundings as she continued her flight through the building. Ahead of her, a dead end greeted her. She turned on her heels and began running the other direction, only to find the gleaming lengths of wire cutting her off, their razor-sharp edges hissing as they sliced through the air.

    Desperate, Axion lunged at the nearest wall and flung herself sideways through an open doorway to her right. The wires chased her into the room, the air humming with their passing as they swept across the entrance. Axion gritted her teeth as they scored thin lines across her upper arms and calves. She limped forward, clutching the gash on her right leg. Blood seeped through her fingers, warm and sticky.

    Behind her, Kasumi''s footsteps paused, the steady thumping growing still. "Not bad, hero." There was a tone of amused approval in her voice. "You''re like a mouse trapped in a box. Too scared to come out and fight, yet cunning enough to evade capture." She chuckled, her voice echoing through the corridor. "Well, you can''t hide forever. And I''m not done playing yet."

    Shit... I have to end this fight soon or else...

    <Stay calm> Edith''s words floated in her ears, calming her racing thoughts. <Don''t make any rash decisions. Keep your composure. You can beat her.>

    Axion opened her mouth to reply. Before she could utter a single word, the wires streaked through the doorway toward her. She swore and sprang out of the way, stumbling around the corner. The wires scythed past, the near-miss carving shallow furrows across her right arm.

    She cried out, gripping her wounded limb. Fresh blood trickled down her hand as she shambled forward, fueling her frenzied flight as she crashed through an open door and into the next room.

    The new room was larger than the others, with high ceilings and massive windows covering the entirety of the exterior wall. Dim moonlight filtered into the room, casting deep shadows from the few objects within¡ªcracked and moldy chairs, an empty filing cabinet, and a lone desk in the middle, all coated in layers of dust.

    She hurried into the farthest corner of the room, pressing herself up against the wall. She cowered there, trying to catch her breath. Through her cracked visor, her eyes flickered across the room, seeking an escape route.

    Kasumi followed her in, her boots thudding with ominous finality with every step. She laughed. "Having fun?" She stood in the doorway, framed by the faint light spilling in from the windows. "Because I sure as hell am."

    Axion gulped. This is bad. Really bad. How am I supposed to get out of this?

    "Got nothing to say anymore?" Kasumi''s lips curled into a smirk, and she adjusted the grip on her wires. "Nothing more to throw? No clever lines to distract me, hero?" She took a step forward and held out her arms, as if inviting her for a hug. "Come on, it''s getting boring. Stop running and give it all you''ve got."

    A bead of sweat trickled down her temple, and she clenched her fists.

    Fine! If that''s what it takes, I''ll do it. I''ll bring it all. EVERYTHING!

    Axion braced herself against the wall and gathered every ounce of energy and concentration she possessed. She narrowed her eyes, focusing on the tiny sparks of gravitons swirling around her, and the power surged within her. Her body felt as light as a feather.

    After a fierce battle cry, she pushed off the wall and rocketed forward, propelled by a surge of gravitons. She flew through the air, the momentum carrying her toward the stunned gang leader.

    [TFSI: 0.54]

    Kasumi''s eyes widened in shock as she instinctively raised her wires to intercept her, creating a web of gleaming metal between them.

    This was a gambit.

    As she flew through the air, she willed the gravitons to change direction, redirecting them with such precision that she was able to manipulate her momentum, angling herself to slip through the gaps in the lattice. She felt like a marionette being tugged and pulled by invisible hands.

    A sharp pain surged through her skull while calculating each tiny movement as she approached her opponent, weaving and dodging through the deadly cordon.

    [TFSI: 0.61]

    She ignored the pain as she twisted and contorted her body, using every scrap of her concentration to plot the perfect course.

    The nanofilaments buzzed and hummed as she passed by, the sharp edges scraping harmlessly against her bodysuit. One strand sliced through the tip of the horn-like protrusion on her helmet, slicing off a small chunk of the carbon fiber.

    [TFSI: 0.64]

    That''s the closest she ever got!

    C''mon, almost there! Just gotta¡ª

    Time seemed to slow. With her momentum waning, she readied herself to launch another burst of gravitons to propel herself. She spun her body around, twisting it into a perfect axe kick, the heel of her boot aimed straight at Kasumi''s face.

    [TFSI: 0.67]

    In a blink of an eye, the gangster pivoted on her heels, ducking under the kick and pulling herself back just in time to avoid the impact. Still, Axion''s momentum carried her forward, and as she passed by, she swung her foot downward, aiming for the ground below while channeling her power through her heel.

    [TFSI: 0.70]

    With a deafening roar, her stomp cratered the floor, unleashing a shockwave that rippled outward, shattering the ground beneath her feet and causing the entire room to cave in. Dust and debris filled the air, obscuring the chaos that ensued. The floor fell away, and the two fighters plummeted with the collapsing structure, hurtling toward the ground far below.

    "FUCK!" Kasumi yelled, her arms flailing wildly as she descended. Her nanowires thrashed around her, their razor-sharp tips whistling as they tore through the air. She managed to wrap several strands around a protruding beam in an attempt to arrest her fall.

    Axion''s body twisted through the air as she maneuvered through the falling debris. She somersaulted in midair, flipping her body upright before drawing back her foot. As she neared Kasumi, she thrust her heel forward at the apex of her momentum.

    Her foot connected with Kasumi''s midsection, sending the gang leader flying into the van that was still wrecked from their previous fight, her nanowires trailing after her, severed and useless.

    [TFSI: 0.72]

    Kasumi collided with the side of the vehicle, crumpling against its surface¡ªthe force of the impact caused the vehicle to rock. She slumped to the ground, her face and clothing covered in grime and debris, her expression dazed and defeated.

    Axion landed a short distance away, crouching in a three-point stance, her body glowing with a radiant blue aura.

    The few gang members still around stared in shock and awe. Silence hung in the air. The only sounds that broke the silence were the patter of rain and the settling dust and debris.

    With shaky legs, she straightened up and faced the group, the LED eyes of her cracked visor flashing a brilliant blue.

    She limped toward the nearest thug, who in turn began to back away in fear. The rest of the thugs around her dispersed, rushing to their fallen leader.

    "Who''s...next?" Axion rasped, her breathing heavy and labored. "I can...fight all night. Bring it."

    The gangsters hesitated, exchanging nervous glances, their eyes darting between themselves and their incapacitated leader.

    Kasumi''s eyes fluttered, and she slowly shook her head. Her body trembled, and her limbs refused to respond to her commands. She coughed weakly and spat out a mouthful of blood.

    "Boss?" the nearby thug asked. "Boss, you good?" He took a cautious step toward her. "What do we do?"

    "F-fuck," she coughed. "Let''s...go."

    The thug nodded and leaned down, pulling her onto his shoulders with a grunt. "C''mon guys, time to leave!" he bellowed. "Move out!"

    The other gangsters rallied around him, with one of the thugs picking up Vaughn from the corner, and they fled through the garage exit.

    Wait...the Shiver! Did they take it?!

    None of the thugs were carrying the briefcase she had seen earlier. She suspected that it might still be in the vehicle.

    She limped back to the van, leaning against it for support as she looked inside, her head still pounding and aching from the strain of the fight.

    Three identical briefcases lay within¡ªthe same ones that she had seen the dealer exchange with them earlier.

    She opened one of them. Within the case, rows of syringes sat snugly in padded compartments, nestled among the ice packs meant to keep the drug cool. It appeared to be undamaged from the crash.

    Doesn''t matter. They''d probably end up destroying it all anyway.

    After closing the briefcase, Axion sighed in relief, slumping against the van, her limbs weak and trembling.

    Everything about her hurt. The adrenaline was wearing off, and now the fatigue washed over her in a wave.

    It''s finally over. Finally.

    Edith''s voice finally crackled in her ear, her tone somber. <Hey, you did it. I did say not to make any rash decisions but...good job. Your vitals are...pretty messed up. Get yourself back here, and I''ll patch you up. Okay?>

    Axion tapped the side of her helmet, then smiled faintly. "Y-yeah. S-sure."

    She winced, her arm throbbing, and she examined her injuries, surveying the bloody, torn scraps where the wires had struck her. "Ow." She touched them gingerly, biting her lip at the pain. "Hurts like hell..."

    When Virgil gets back, I''ll let him have it for not warning me about Kasumi''s nanowires. He better be having a hard time too.

 Chapter 31: The Mad Chemist and the Adrenomancers

    Rain lashed the darkened slum streets as Virgil chased the tail lights of the fleeing sedan. He pounded down the alley, his boots splashing through the puddles, the sound drowned out by the thundering downpour and the distant hum of the vehicle''s engine. He vaulted over a chain-link fence and raced towards the intersection ahead, his chest tightening with every stride.

    As he approached the junction, he could see the sedan careening through the crossroads, its tires screeching on the wet tarmac. With a burst of effort, Virgil launched himself forward, leaping over the hood of a parked truck and landing on the roof of the sedan. He clung on grimly, his fingertips scrabbling for purchase as the driver swerved wildly, trying to throw him off.

    But Virgil held firm, using his weight to steady himself as he aimed his revolver through the rear windshield. He squeezed off a shot, shattering the glass, and sending a bullet ricocheting around the inside of the car.

    The sedan careened off the road, colliding with a lamppost, sending Virgil tumbling off the roof and onto the sidewalk.

    He rose to his feet, his coat sodden, and his hat knocked askew. The sedan lay in a crumpled heap before him, steam rising from the smashed radiator. Through the shattered windshield, he saw the silhouettes of the passengers stirring inside.

    Virgil holstered his gun and strode toward the wrecked vehicle, his steps measured, his expression obscured by the brim of his Stetson hat.

    The driver''s door flew open, and one of the occupants lurched out, clutching his shoulder, which bore the evidence of the ricochet Virgil had inflicted.

    I knew it...those bodyguards looked familiar.

    The harness that peeked out from under the man''s coat was unmistakable, with its tubes and injectors wrapped around his body¡ªAdrenomancers. Virgil had seen those types of harnesses before, and he knew exactly who built them.

    "Salvatore," Virgil called out, his voice a low growl, cutting through the rain''s rhythmic drumming. "We need to talk about your little partnership with the Neon Vipers."

    After the other Adrenomancer bodyguard clambered out of the passenger seat, the ''dealer'' who had been accompanying them emerged, his hood hanging low over his face.

    "Backfire...it''s been a while," the drug dealer called Salvatore rumbled, his voice gruff and metallic due to the modulator device within his cybernetic mask that concealed his visage. "Still trying to play hero in this forsaken place? I thought you''d given up and crawled into a hole by now."

    Virgil chuckled mirthlessly. "Not when there''s a piece of trash like you polluting it. The Shiver drug¡ªwhy are you flooding the slums with it?"

    Salvatore''s laugh was a digital aberration. "You think too small, Maddox. Shiver is merely a stepping stone."

    Virgil edged closer, his boots splashing in the puddles. The two Adrenomancers shifted, their drug harnesses thrumming as the tubes and injectors began pumping the chemicals through their bodies. "Spare me the theatrics and answer the question. A stepping stone to what? What''s the end game here?"

    "Ah, now that would be telling." Salvatore spread his hands, a theatrical gesture. "Let''s just say, it''s a necessary evil for a greater good. You should be more worried about yourself, Virgil. I''ve heard the stories. The once-great vigilante, now just a shadow in the slums."

    "I''m still enough of a shadow to deal with scum like you." Virgil''s hand tightened around the grip of his revolver. "There is no good in peddling death," he spat. "Now, you''re going to tell me what this is all about, or I''ll beat it out of you."

    Salvatore threw back his hood, exposing his mechanized mask, which was fashioned into the semblance of a grinning skull. "That won''t be happening, Maddox." The drug dealer tilted his head in the direction of his goons. "Kill him."

    The Adrenomancers lunged at Virgil, their enhanced speed enabling them to cross the distance between them in an instant.

    Virgil wasted no time. As the Adrenomancers charged him, he drew his revolver and opened fire, squeezing off three shots in quick succession. The first caught the lead guard in the shoulder, while the other two tore through his thigh and gut.

    Despite his grievous injuries, the Adrenomancer continued to bear down on Virgil, as if undeterred by the bullets lodged in his body.

    Virgil stood his ground, unflinching. When the Adrenomancer came within arm''s reach, Virgil ducked low, shifting his weight and driving his elbow into the injured guard''s side. The guard groaned but managed to retain his balance, continuing his assault.

    The second Adrenomancer circled around and made his move, leaping into the air and delivering a powerful downward kick. The blow connected with Virgil''s back, sending him sprawling. But Virgil rolled with the impact and sprang back to his feet, spinning around to shoot the attacker square in the chest.

    The second one was also unfazed, aside from stumbling slightly.

    Virgil frowned. These guys seemed more resilient than the ones he''d faced back in the day. Salvatore must have improved the formula for the drugs that fueled the harnesses.

    He grit his teeth as the Adrenomancers renewed their offensive, unleashing a series of punches and kicks, which he dodged and blocked as best as he could.

    As he leapt away to gain some distance, Virgil grabbed the speedloader from his pocket and swiftly refilled his revolver''s empty chambers, cocking the hammer and lining up a shot. Before he could fire, one of the Adrenomancers moved in, his fists flying. Virgil twisted, avoiding most of the blows, but the last one connected with the side of his face, the impact sending him reeling.

    Blood dripped from the corner of Virgil''s mouth, but he shook it off, wiping his chin with the back of his sleeve. He locked eyes with Salvatore, who was still standing by the car, seemingly content to watch his henchmen dispatch Virgil.

    The Adrenomancers closed in once more, their fists raised. Virgil feinted right, drawing one guard out, only to switch to the left and send a vicious haymaker into the man''s face. His fist collided with a meaty thud, but the man barely flinched as he recovered and attacked Virgil again, sending a flurry of strikes that drove Virgil back, and eventually forced him to retreat.

    Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted the other Adrenomancer closing in. Virgil spun, catching the man off-guard.

    Before the Adrenomancer could react, Virgil raised his gun and fanned the hammer, firing three shots in quick succession¡ªall three shots aimed at the man''s face.

    In a blur, the Adrenomancer raised his arms in defense, blocking the volley. The bullets struck his forearms, stopping short of their intended target.

    Damn meat-heads can take a lot more punishment than in the old days.

    Already, he could see the bullet wounds from the other Adrenomancer starting to close up, the regeneration rate further accelerated by the drugs being pumped into the guard''s system.

    As the two Adrenomancers approached, Virgil broke into a sprint, sprinting past them to grab an iron bar laying on the ground nearby. He hefted the makeshift weapon and whirled on his heel, swinging the improvised club at the nearest Adrenomancer, striking him across the back of the head.

    There was a dull clang as metal met reinforced skull, but the guard refused to yield, turning to glare at Virgil through a haze of bloodlust. With a roar, the man lunged, tackling Virgil to the ground. The iron bar slipped from Virgil''s grasp, clattering against the wet pavement as the Adrenomancer slammed his fists into Virgil''s face.

    Virgil winced at the blows but ignored the pain as he grappled with his attacker. They rolled along the ground, trading punches until finally, Virgil found himself on top, his knee pressed down on the Adrenomancer''s chest.

    Without hesitation, Virgil drew his gun and shoved the barrel into the guard''s mouth, pushing past the Adrenomancer''s teeth and pulling the¡ª

    A blow to the side of his head caused him to see stars as he was tossed to the side, the shot missing its mark.

    Fuck. These guys are tough.

    Virgil grimaced, blinking to clear the spots from his vision. The second guard picked up the first, hauling him to his feet as both turned their attention back to him.

    He staggered upright, clutching the side of his head, his Stetson having been dislodged during the brawl. Rain pelted against his bruised face, and the bitter taste of copper filled his mouth as he spat out a glob of blood.

    Salvatore appeared nonchalant, his skeletal mask giving his voice a chilling, robotic quality. "What''s the matter, Backfire? You used to be able to take on a whole gang all by yourself." Salvatore''s words were dripping with sarcasm, the taunt echoing in the rain. "Looks like the slums have finally gotten to you. Why aren''t you using the power that made you so famous and feared? Do you think so little of my creations that you thought ordinary bullets would be enough to bring them down?"

    Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    Virgil glared, snatching his Stetson from the ground and plopping it back atop his head. "Figured I didn''t need to. Guess I forgot how durable you make those things." He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, spitting another mouthful of blood onto the damp pavement.

    "Alright, Salvatore. Fine. Have it your way. Don''t say I didn''t warn you."

    Virgil glanced around, his eyes scanning the deserted street. There was nobody else around. No witnesses. Perfect.

    It had been a while since he had the opportunity to go all out.

    He discharged the remaining two bullets in the cylinder with a flick of his thumb, the brass casings bouncing away into the darkness.

    Then, his eyes shimmered with a faint blue glow, and he exhaled deeply.

    An ethereal mist swirled into his revolver''s empty chambers, and the bullets took on a pale, glowing blue color. As they settled into the cylinder, he flicked it closed with his thumb and brought the hammer to full cock.

    "Let''s try this again, shall we?" he muttered, taking aim at the approaching Adrenomancers.

    He pulled the trigger, and the gun barked twice. Twin bolts of crackling blue energy erupted from the barrel, streaking toward the guards, impacting against the closest one''s chest, and arcing out to encompass the other, momentarily illuminating them in a flash of light.

    The force of the ethereal blast sent the duo flying backward onto the ground, smoke rising from their burned clothing. Their harnesses hissed, spurting out jets of white vapor into the frigid night air, their tubing ruptured.

    They struggled to stand, groaning and clutching their chests in agony, the chemical flow disrupted. But within seconds, their skin regenerated, knitting together the scorched tissue, and soon they were back on their feet, facing Virgil once more.

    "Nice try, Backfire," Salvatore jeered as his minions regrouped. "Your ethereal abilities might be impressive, but they won''t be enough to stop my men. Not anymore."

    Virgil grinned, the corners of his mouth turning up in a humorless smile. "I guess we''ll just have to wait and see about that."

    <hr>

    Virgil''s breath misted in the chill air as he squared off against the recovering Adrenomancers. Despite their setback, the two thugs still had plenty of fight in them, their bodies tense and ready to lunge.

    The empty streets seemed to amplify the sounds of the pouring rain, the steady drumbeat of the downpour filling the silence between them. Then, without warning, the Adrenomancers surged forward, breaking into a dead sprint, their limbs a blur of motion.

    Virgil sidestepped, anticipating their rush, and fired off two quick shots¡ªone aimed at each approaching target. Both bolts of energy struck true, impacting against the advancing men, stopping them in their tracks. He fired twice more, but they managed to twist out of the way, allowing the bolts to streak harmlessly by.

    They continued to advance, as if undeterred.

    This time, they charged as a coordinated unit, fanning out to flank him. Virgil raised his weapon and squeezed off three rapid-fire shots, hitting both targets, but the ethereal rounds seemed to do little more than graze their skins as they weaved through the storm of projectiles. Each shot that hit was absorbed, the harness''s chemicals working to rapidly heal any minor wound.

    They''re going to keep absorbing them and healing from the damage, unless I can get a clean hit.

    In a burst of movement, the Adrenomancers reached him, flanking Virgil on either side. He danced to the right, avoiding the first''s attempted grab, and fired point-blank, catching the target in the chest. The ethereal force flung the guard backward into the wall of a nearby building.

    The second Adrenomancer struck while Virgil''s back was turned. He kicked out at Virgil''s leg, but Virgil jumped into the air, dodging the strike, and landed lightly on his feet. He whirled on the Adrenomancer and unleashed another shot, and the guard bent backward at an unnatural angle as the round skimmed him, its ethereal energy burning through his clothes, leaving a trail of blackened flesh in its wake.

    The other Adrenomancer was quick to recover. He lunged at Virgil again, his fists flying. This time, Virgil was too slow. A quick jab caught him in the jaw, snapping his head back, followed by another hit to his torso. The Adrenomancer swept his legs out from under him, knocking him to the ground.

    The air was driven from Virgil''s lungs, but he managed to roll with the impact and get back to his feet. He squared his stance and raised his revolver, firing off a hasty shot in retaliation. The ethereal bolt struck the Adrenomancer in the shoulder, staggering him.

    In a split-second, the other one was upon Virgil, raining down a flurry of punches and kicks that kept him on the defensive, even as the first guard rejoined the fray. The Adrenomancers pressed in on all sides, boxing him in, denying him any chance at escape as they corralled him into an alleyway. The surrounding buildings towered over them, trapping Virgil within the narrow confines.

    Blows rained down on him relentlessly, and each time he managed to deflect a strike or avoid one, another took its place. His shoulders ached with the effort of fending off the relentless onslaught, and the sharp impacts rattled his bones as the two men kept up their barrage, seeming not to tire.

    They crowded him against the wall, backing him into a corner. The brickwork scraped against his back, the jagged edges digging into his coat.

    Annoying sonovabitches.

    While it was true that these new batches of drug-powered vermin were faster, stronger, and more durable than he had ever dealt with before, it was still only a small leap forward. Nothing he couldn''t handle.

    Salvatore was out of sight now. Good.

    Virgil smirked. He''d played with them long enough. Time to wrap this up.

    As the two Adrenomancers resumed their attack, Virgil''s eyes blazed as he invoked the other ammo types in his ethereal arsenal. In a fluid motion, he flicked the revolver''s chamber, the glowing blue rounds changing to a pale white.

    Bond.

    He fanned the hammer, firing two in quick succession, hitting both targets in the chest. A pulse of energy emanated from each point of impact, coalescing into a line that connected them.

    His ring finger grazed the hammer for the third shot just as the ethereal bullet in the chamber changed to a translucent gold.

    Time.

    He fired once more, the shot rocketing toward the guard on the left. The bullet struck the guard directly in the forehead. A shimmering golden aura rippled outward from the impact site, spreading through the spectral line that connected them, engulfing the other guard in its effects.

    Both Adrenomancers'' bodies slowed, becoming immobile, suspended in the temporal bubble, frozen in time. The raindrops that reached them stopped mid-fall, forming an expanding puddle of droplets around them.

    Blaze.

    Virgil flicked the revolver''s chamber again, the glowing white rounds changing to a fiery orange.

    As he strode past the nearest Adrenomancer, he aimed at the man''s face and pulled the trigger three times in quick succession, the triple-tap punctuating each word as he spoke. "Burn...in...hell."

    The fiery ethereal bullets halted their trajectory, hovering just a centimeter from the Adrenomancer''s temple, suspended by the Temporal Round''s effects.

    Virgil twirled the revolver in his grip and holstered it.

    As he exited the alley, the effect of the Temporal Round dissipated, and time for the two guards snapped back into its regular rhythm. The suspended Searing Brand bullets surged forward, slamming into the Adrenomancer''s face. The Bullet Bond magnified the effect, ensuring that both targets shared the same fiery fate.

    Behind him, the alleyway exploded in a blaze of fire and heat, the force of the explosion buffeting his back, causing his trenchcoat to flare out behind him. As his Stetson hat threatened to blow off his head, he placed his hand upon its brim and gripped it tighter to his crown. The air shimmered with the sudden surge in temperature, and the rain around him evaporated, turning into a billowing cloud of steam.

    Several cries of agony cut through the sound of the inferno behind him, quickly silenced. Virgil didn''t bother to turn around, instead striding calmly towards the parked sedan where Salvatore stood watching, waiting for him. His skeletal mask stared back at him, expressionless and uncaring.

    "Oh my, Backfire...you''re really something," Salvatore rumbled in an amused tone as Virgil approached. "To think you had planned to dispatch them without revealing more of your hand¡ª"

    Salvatore''s remark was cut short when Virgil drew his revolver and shot the man''s head in one smooth, almost casual, motion.

    The metal cyber mask tumbled to the ground, skidding across the wet pavement before coming to rest in a puddle.

    Virgil tucked his gun into the holster as Salvatore''s body collapsed.

    Blood poured from the hole in Salvatore''s head, mixing with the water, creating crimson swirls on the ground.

    Salvatore''s lifeless gaze remained fixed on the night sky, his empty eyes reflecting the stars above.

    "I''m getting too old for your nonsense, Salvatore. You didn''t want to cooperate, so I shut you up for good." He kicked the metallic mask, sending it tumbling across the asphalt.

    Just as Virgil turned to head back to the Kijiru Pharmaceuticals building, a sound broke the stillness¡ªa peal of distorted, mocking laughter emanated from Salvatore''s discarded mask.

    Virgil spun around, drawing his revolver once more, training its barrel at the fallen metal visage.

    "So that''s what you call ''for good'', is it?" came a disembodied, artificial voice from the cybernetic mask. "You think it was going to be that easy, Maddox? I''m not some two-bit thug you can just put down with a bullet."

    Virgil glanced over at the corpse slumped on the ground beside the sedan, confirming that there wasn''t anyone else around. He holstered his gun and retrieved the cyber mask, examining it carefully. A single, unblinking eye stared back at him from the visor, a red orb pulsating in the center. It seemed to be some kind of camera embedded within the metal.

    Damn it. I forgot he used decoys...

    "Should have known you wouldn''t personally come to a meeting like this," Virgil muttered, glaring into the unblinking red eye. "Your M.O. of using proxies to do the dirty work hasn''t changed one bit."

    The distorted, mechanical laughter rang out once more, as if on cue. "You never were one to see the whole board, Maddox," Salvatore''s voice continued to emanate from the mask. "Always so focused on the piece in front of you."

    "Cut the bullshit," Virgil growled, "Where are you, Salvatore?"

    "Still in the metropolis, enjoying its many luxuries, while you waste away in the slums." The cyber mask''s voice cackled mockingly. "Speaking of which, I didn''t know you''ve taken a new protege. Quite the young lady, she is. Curious...she''s not registered in the database. Where did you find her?"

    "I didn''t find her. More importantly, you''re not getting the cache of venom that you traded for. Shame." Virgil walked over to the sedan, opened the door, and grabbed the briefcase sitting on the back seat.

    "That is...rather inconvenient, I must admit. I don''t suppose we can cut a deal?"

    "No. Looks like I''ll be keeping your merchandise." Virgil said dismissively, as he returned to the center of the road. "You can stay where you are and play with your toys in the metropolis, but if I ever catch you doing business in the slums, you''ll regret it."

    "I do believe you mean to deliver on such a threat," the cyber mask quipped, the red eye flickering. "Although I highly doubt it. How much longer will you remain useful as an obstacle in my plans? Without someone to hold the leash, Backfire is no more than an old dog running amok."

    Virgil took one last look at the cyber mask in his hands, then dropped it, smashing it underfoot with his boot. Sparks flew as the mechanism inside crunched, its components crumpling beneath the heel of his boot. Then, he headed off towards the Kijiru Pharmaceuticals building, briefcase in hand.

 Chapter 32: Their Own Agendas

    Virgil spotted Axion resting against the side of the wrecked van near the ramp''s entrance as he approached. Her helmet obscured her face, but her posture suggested exhaustion. Her chest heaved, and she favored her side, clutching her injuries.

    His eyes roved over the remains of dead gang members scattered on the ground around the premises. He didn''t see "Cobra" Kasumi''s corpse among the bodies.

    Must have gotten away.

    Well, considering the chaos that just went down, Axion seemed to have done a decent job at holding her own. He suspected that Kasumi would have been a tough opponent for her to deal with alone. But it seemed like she pulled through with her head intact.

    Upon spotting his approach, Axion pushed herself off the van and straightened. She swayed a little on her feet, her strength visibly waning.

    "How''d it go?" he asked.

    Axion exhaled a ragged breath. "She got away." Her voice sounded weak and tired through the helmet''s filter, lacking her usual confidence and vigor.

    Virgil nodded, expecting that answer. "Did you manage to stop her from running off with the Shiver?"

    Axion gestured to the small stack of metal briefcases on the floor nearby, "This is all of ''em," she replied, her tone flat. She seemed to be struggling to get the words out, her breathing shallow and labored. Her body swayed unsteadily from side to side as she slowly made her way over to him. She looked as though she were about to fall over at any moment.

    "Hey, uh..can you do me a favor?" she asked, her voice faltering. "I think I''m gonna need help..."

    She slumped against him as she trailed off. Her body went limp, her head sagging.

    Virgil''s arm darted out, catching her as she fell, cradling her.

    Axion''s head lolled, her helmet tilting up to face him. Through her helmet''s cracked visor, he could see her eyes rolling into the back of her head as she passed out in his arms.

    He sighed.

    Great, now I have to carry everything by myself.

    At least she was alive.

    Carefully, Virgil hefted her unconscious form over his shoulder. She moaned weakly, but otherwise didn''t resist or stir as he moved her.

    Virgil paused by the stack of metal briefcases full of Shiver and bent down to grab them, straining as he lifted the cumbersome stack of cases. With a grunt, he balanced all three handles of the stack in his gloved hand, then picked up the case full of venom with his other hand.

    As he exited the parking garage, the rain had trickled down to a light drizzle.

    The surrounding buildings and shanties remained quiet. No doubt those who heard all the commotion were too afraid to investigate, especially with the gang violence happening.

    Good. It would have been awkward for someone to spot him carrying a body and a few metal cases, while drenched in rain, and not make the obvious assumption.

    ***

    After tending to Fii''s injuries and making sure she was stable, Edith headed to her office. The lights flickered as she entered, casting a dim, eerie glow over the room. She strode over to her desk, plopping down in her chair and glancing over her computer screen where the footage of Fii''s fight against the leader of the Neon Vipers, "Cobra" Kasumi, had been recorded through the camera in her helmet.

    Edith rubbed her temples, exhaling a deep breath as she watched the display. Things could have ended much worse than they did. What the hell was Virgil thinking, leaving Fii by herself to take on a seasoned criminal who came from the metropolis? Did he expect her to have no trouble dealing with someone like Kasumi?

    Even after seeing the results of Fii''s victory, it was hard to believe she''d actually held her own against a woman who''d been trained and conditioned to kill. Luck, and Fii''s opponent toying around, were likely the reasons why Fii had prevailed.

    A knock came at her door.

    Speak of the devil.

    "Come in!" Edith called out, standing as Virgil stepped inside, carrying the four briefcases in his arms.

    He set the cases down on the table, letting out a soft grunt of exertion as they clanged loudly. "All accounted for," he said, glancing over at her with a smirk. "Courtesy of your friend." He removed his soggy Stetson and gave it a shake before placing it back on his head. "Well, she''s not dead. So, I''ll consider this a win."

    "Did you find out who was supplying the Shiver drug?" Edith asked, ignoring his sarcasm.

    Virgil let out a deep sigh as he seated himself in one of her office chairs. "Yeah...just some dealer from the metropolis who decided to dabble in the slums. He''s dealt with."

    Edith frowned, crossing her arms. "You''re telling me you took care of him already? You didn''t bother interrogating?"

    "There was no point," Virgil dismissed, waving his hand. "He was a low-level thug, following orders from higher up. I figured killing him would send a message loud and clear. If there are others like him, I highly doubt they''ll be inclined to continue the distribution if word gets out he''s been eliminated."

    Edith pursed her lips. "What about the gangster that got away? She''s obviously still out there. Will there be retaliation?"

    Virgil leaned back in the chair, propping his boots up on a stool. He tilted his head back, gazing up at the ceiling. "There might be, but I doubt she''ll act anytime soon." His gaze met hers and his lips curled into a confident half-smile. "Fii showed her and her crew what a real brawl looks like. Those neon freaks won''t try anything for a while. They''ll be licking their wounds for a long time, trying to recover from this embarrassment. Trust me, I''ve seen enough gang wars to recognize the pattern."

    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Edith didn''t share his optimism about the situation. "Fii nearly died tonight, Virgil."

    The gunslinger''s smile faded, and his eyes hardened. "It shouldn''t have been that bad of a matchup for her."

    "It was! Why did you send Fii in with her?" Edith demanded, crossing her arms over her chest. "You could have easily dealt with that by yourself, but instead, you risked the life of someone who has yet to master her powers. She was lucky to have made it out of that alive."

    Virgil frowned, rubbing the stubble along his chin with one gloved hand. He remained silent for several long moments before speaking. "I figured she had enough power, skill, and grit to handle herself. The only thing she would have had to worry about were Cobra''s poisoned knives and smoke bombs. Nothing she couldn''t handle after all the training I put her through. If anything, I thought this would be good for her to test out what she could and couldn''t do."

    Edith stared at him incredulously.

    Was he serious?

    She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose and shaking her head. "Virgil. When was the last time you fought Cobra?"

    "Dunno exactly but...I''d say around twelve years ago, when she was just an enforcer for the Crimson Shadows. Why?" he asked, his brow furrowing. "What difference does that make?"

    "A lot, Virgil." Edith scowled, pointing at the screen. "Look at what she can do now. Watch the damn video and see what Fii had to deal with."

    Virgil raised a dubious eyebrow and walked over to inspect the display. Edith stepped aside, allowing him a clear view. He watched the entire video in silence, his eyes widening with every passing second.

    After finishing, he rubbed his face and shook his head. "Fuck¡­ Nanowires?"

    Edith snorted derisively. "Yes, nanowires! Military-grade nanofilament wires. You know. The stuff that can cut through solid steel? Or slice a body into ribbons? Even if the body is a metahuman''s. And judging by how the footage cuts off abruptly, she most likely nearly killed Fii. The only reason she made it out alive is because of sheer luck and the fact that Kasumi toyed around with her instead of ending things quickly."

    Virgil''s expression hardened at that. His brows furrowed, and his jaw clenched, but he kept silent.

    Edith crossed her arms, regarding him coolly. "Had Fii been a step too slow or stumbled during that encounter, she would''ve been sliced apart. And all you expected her to do was to ''take care'' of Cobra." She threw her hands up in exasperation. "I can''t believe you relied on outdated information about someone from a decade ago, rather than at least asking me for intel! And here I thought you weren''t reckless."

    She massaged her temples, rubbing them wearily. "We can talk more later. Just leave the drugs. I''ll dispose of them after analyzing their properties."

    Virgil hesitated, looking as if he wanted to continue their conversation, but finally nodded stiffly. "Yeah. Right. Sure. I''ll check back on Fii."

    As he exited the office, he paused, lingering in the doorway, glancing over his shoulder. "For what it''s worth...I''m sorry. I''ll be more careful in the future."

    With a sigh, he left.

    Edith sank back into her chair, closing her eyes, and let out a heavy breath. For someone with a reputation for being cold and calculating, he certainly wasn''t acting the part. She supposed a decade hiding in solitude might have dulled his edge. Either way, his recklessness had nearly cost Fii her life tonight.

    These weren''t the variables Edith had in mind when she enlisted the help of a washed-up vigilante. She wanted a relatively safe and controlled plan of progression for Fii, not whatever the hell Virgil was attempting.

    Everything would have gone to shit had Fii died or been severely injured. She''d invested considerable time and effort into cultivating the girl, and losing Fii to a mission gone awry would have resulted in nothing more than a loss of resources and wasted potential. She was doubtful that she could even replicate Fii''s results; the circumstances that led to her acquiring the metahuman genome had been...unique.

    "Helix, how far along are you in analyzing the cause of Fii''s mutation from the effect of the serum?"

    [ You''ve been asking this twice a week. My analysis remains unchanged. The mutations in her genetics remain indiscernible. As previously stated, based on the data we''ve acquired so far, there''s no way to pinpoint¡ª ]

    "Fine. You can stop." Edith groaned and covered her face with her hands.

    Of course, there wasn''t an easy answer. That''s what made her research borderline impossible.

    Uncovering the secrets behind the metahuman genome was tantamount to discovering a new fundamental law of reality. Even after all her years toiling away in the darkest recesses of science and genetic engineering, she only managed to create a formula that theoretically served as a catalyst to mutate a person''s biology into that of a metahuman''s.

    She had no control over whatever power they would have manifested with. She just knew it would eventually work, after a lot of trials. And it did¡ªone thousand seven hundred fifty-eight trials later, Fii, as she was, was the proof of concept.

    Even Helix estimated the chance of success for producing an artificial metahuman to be as low as 0.0000001%.

    For Fii to be the lone success after so many failures? One in ten million. At that point, the odds had to be caused by some sort of divine intervention.

    Yet despite her excitement at the prospect of unlocking the secrets of metahumans, she needed to find a way to increase the probability of success to mimic the conditions under which Fii became one.

    But even after running more simulations, with Helix''s help, Edith still couldn''t determine what triggered her body to fully accept the serum''s gene-altering properties. As Helix had told her countless times, the outcome was simply unpredictable. She lacked the key data necessary to determine how or why.

    And that uncertainty gnawed at her. She needed more time. More data.

    She needed Fii to keep growing, keep evolving. Maybe then, Edith might gain some insight into the answers she sought. Until that happened, she needed to be patient.

    But at the same time, she feared for the girl''s life. After all, she didn''t go through all the effort of nurturing her from a useless street-kind to what she was now only for her to die without providing any useable results. Fii had to become stronger, to overcome any hurdles placed in her path. She couldn''t afford to be complacent. She couldn''t afford to lose her.

    Edith rose from her seat, her eyes traveling to the cases on her desk.

    Drugs. What an archaic, wasteful means for humans to seek a sense of euphoria and control. She hadn''t cared for them since she was a teen. Creating chemical stimulants and depressants in her private lab in the metropolis to sell as a supplementary source of income had given her firsthand experience with how addictive substances affected humans.

    Maybe that was one of the main factors as to why she distanced herself from them. They always felt so...repetitive. Such a waste of time and resources.

    Not to mention they lacked any real purpose. There were far better ways to improve oneself, in her opinion.

    Nevertheless, the development of this "Shiver" drug caught her attention. Whoever was behind the drug''s creation clearly had an intimate knowledge of neurotransmitters, neurogenesis, and genetics.

    Oh well. Virgil said that he dealt with the supplier of the drug, so there was no use worrying about that problem anymore. She could at least repurpose these samples as raw materials for other experiments.

    Pushing thoughts of the drugs from her mind, Edith gathered her equipment and began preparing to run the latest batch of tests. She had work to do, after all.

 Chapter 33: Errands with a Friend

    Fii stared at her reflection in the mirror, stunned. She gently traced the smooth skin where a gaping wound had been two weeks ago. She pulled aside her tank top and inspected her side, noting the lack of any scars or signs of injury.

    Woah.

    This was the second time she stared in awe at how fast and completely her body had recovered. It was unreal. Did all metahumans heal this quickly? Then how come Virgil still had those scars on his face? Maybe he didn''t heal up as well because he was older, or maybe he got hurt by something that couldn''t be fixed.

    Shrugging, Fii pulled her tank top back down and made a mental note to ask Virgil about that later. He was probably out collecting more intel about the gangs or whatever else he did when he was out.

    Fii''s thoughts drifted back to the mission they had accomplished together. It had been a chaotic experience, but she felt strangely exhilarated. Despite being thrown into a life-or-death situation, Fii felt she''d performed well. At least, better than she imagined she would have.

    She actually fought toe-to-toe against one of the most dangerous gangsters in the slums¡ªand lived! Sure, maybe she got a little lucky on her hail mary maneuver at the end. But she couldn''t deny how cool and heroic she''d felt in the moment. And if nothing else, the entire experience proved that she had what it takes to be a hero.

    Despite the pain and trauma, Fii wanted more.

    To get pushed to the brink like that again, to test her limits, to prove her worth, to do what no one else could¡ªthat rush, that excitement, that thrill¡ªwas addicting.

    It felt different from training. Sure, Edith and Virgil had pushed her hard. But the real thing, fighting for her life, confronting danger head-on, surviving¡ªit was far more intense. And now she had a taste of the potential she had. The possibilities.

    Fii continued staring at her reflection and flexing, testing her newly healed body for any lingering side-effects. So far, everything seemed normal. As if the fight never happened. Well, at least physically. Mentally, she replayed the scenes in her mind. The sheer amount of combat info she gleaned from the encounter, she''d never gained so much so quickly, despite practicing every day.

    She grabbed her jacket and threw it on, letting out a satisfied sigh. After waiting for two agonizingly long weeks for her body to fully recover from her wounds, she was finally ready to get back out there again.

    Edith said that her new suit and repaired helmet would be ready by this evening. That''s when she could go on another patrol. As eager as she was to get out in the field again, Edith insisted on letting her body rest. Which sucked. A lot. All that time spent cooped up in bed drove her crazy, but at least she had that book that she borrowed from Orion''s library to read.

    After finishing the novel, she was even more inspired to continue down her path to becoming a superhero. Helping people and having them look up to you, making the world a little bit better place¡ªwhat wasn''t there to like about that?

    She left the clinic and headed to the Rust Market. It was late afternoon, the sun peeking through the dense layers of clouds, and the chilly autumn air nipped at her ears and nose. She made her way to Rao''s shop, passing through the usual crowd of bustling slum-dwellers, the noise of the marketplace a familiar din in her ears.

    The little bell chimed above her as she entered Rao''s store. Rao greeted her warmly as always, flashing her a friendly smile as she approached his counter.

    "Hey, kid." Rao waved as he busied himself cleaning one of his old gadgets with a cloth. "I haven''t seen you in a while. What''s up?"

    Fii shrugged as she leaned against the countertop, looking around his cluttered shelves. "The usual. Been busy at the clinic, so I haven''t been able to swing by for the past two weeks."

    Rao laughed, setting the gadget down to give her his full attention. "Sounds rough. How''s the clinic holding up, anyway?"

    "Good, I guess? There was a guy that OD''ed a little while ago from a drug called Shiver, but the Doc managed to save him."

    "Damn, I thought that stuff was just echoes in empty cans. Guess not. Anyways, anything else going on with you, kid? It''s gotten a bit lonely since you stopped taking jobs from me," Rao gave her a playful pout. "Sure, they weren''t great money-makers, but the company was nice. Just you, me, and the hustle-bustle of the market."

    Fii let out a soft chuckle. "Hey, I stop by every once in a while, you know. Besides, I still take the odd delivery job here and there."

    "True, but it''s not the same. Speaking of which, you got any exciting stories to share lately, or is it all just clinic work?"

    Sure, Rao. Like I''d tell you that I''m actually Axion and I''ve been spending all my time patrolling, helping people, and beating up crooks.

    "Haha, not much to share, really. Just a bunch of boring clinic stuff and some odd jobs here and there. Same old, same old." Fii gave a sheepish grin.

    "Really? Well, if you say so." Rao rubbed the stubble on his chin thoughtfully. "Guess that means you''re not interested in helping me with a delivery, huh? I could use the extra hands. A rather big order came in, and I need someone to help haul them all. Interested?"

    "Hmm." Fii tapped her chin.

    She did have some time to kill before the evening. It''d be a shame to pass up on earning some Tinks, and besides, helping Rao out was always fun. Even if he was being a tad nosy. "Sure. What''s the delivery?"

    "Perfect!" Rao exclaimed. He disappeared behind a curtain and returned moments later with a large package wrapped in paper and tied with twine. He set the box on the counter and patted its top. "You need to take this to a gal named Lyria. She''s got a place by the Neon Alley."

    Fii''s raised an eyebrow. "This is for Lyria? I know her. We''re friends. What''d she buy from you?" She poked at the package curiously, eliciting a snicker from the old man.

    "It''s called an air conditioner," Rao answered as he rummaged through his toolbox, searching for something. "Keeps ya'' nice and cool during hot days. Fancy eh? Bet you wish your little shack had one of these last month when it was hotter than a soup bowl fresh from the pot."

    Actually, I haven''t been in my own place for a while.

    Fii''s room at the clinic was way better than her own little place, even though she used to call the dilapidated shack home for most of her life. But now? Now, she''d grown accustomed to sleeping in a real bed, being fed good food, bathe whenever she wanted them, and not have to worry about how to get medicine.

    Oh, and she knew what an air conditoner was¡ªher room had one. But Rao didn''t need to know all that.

    "Ooooh, neat!" she gasped, feigning ignorance. "Anyways, I know where she lives so I better go now before it gets too late."

    "Hold on, hold on. I still remember what happened to you last time. I don''t fancy having that repeated since that place is a bit far from here. Wait here."

    Rao left for a bit and returned with a familiar face walking beside him. The tall, shaggy blond hair, the scar on his face¡ªit was unmistakable.

    Quinn.

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    What was he doing here? Was he friends with Rao too?

    Quinn looked just as surprised to see Fii as she did him, his eyes widening a fraction in recognition. "Oh, hey! Fii! Nice to see you again." He flashed a small smile, his demeanor as friendly and polite as the last time they met.

    Rao looked between the two of them and scratched his head. "Ah, I didn''t realize you two already knew each other. Good news then. You two can handle the delivery together." He clapped Fii on the shoulder. "He''s going to be your bodyguard for the trip. Should be simple, so no worries. Just drop off the goods, come back, and boom! Your payment. Easy-peasy."

    Quinn and Fii exchanged glances before giving Rao a small nod.

    "Great, glad you''re on board!" Rao beamed, "There''s a small cart out back you can use to pull this heavy sucker. Quinn, show her. I gotta finish this thing up. Oh, and make sure to keep her safe, alright?"

    Fii stifled a laugh at that. Not like she needed protecting anymore. She could easily take care of herself. If only Rao knew the truth. But Quinn was also in the dark about the whole thing, so it wasn''t as if she could say anything in response.

    "Will do," Quinn replied with a reassuring smile. "Come on, I''ll show you where it is."

    The two of them headed to the back of Rao''s shop, with Quinn carrying the box while Fii held the door open. The dolly cart waited nearby, along with a few crates of random odds and ends. Quinn set the package onto the cart and proceeded to secure it with the rope while Fii sat atop the pile of boxes.

    When he was done, Fii grabbed the handles and wheeled the dolly cart forward. "Alright, I''ll lead the way. You keep your eyes peeled for baddies. Not that I''m saying you can''t, but if someone tries to mug us, you can just look at ''em real scary-like¡ªor just beat ''em up! You''re strong, right?"

    Quinn chuckled nervously as they rolled out onto the main street. "Uh, sure. I can take care of them if it comes to that. Not that it''s likely to happen, but I guess better to be prepared than not."

    "Glad to hear you''ve got my back." Fii smiled and patted Quinn''s back as he walked beside the cart. "Alright, off to Lyria''s, then."

    Quinn nodded. "Let''s go. Wasn''t expecting to be on a date today."

    "What?" Fii blinked in confusion.

    Quinn cleared his throat, looking slightly embarrassed. "Nothing, I''m joking. This isn''t a date. My joke sucks, sorry. Please ignore it."

    They fell into silence after that. As the cart trundled down the street, Fii found her gaze wandering to Quinn, her head turning slightly to glance at him. He wore his usual green jumpsuit, though she noted it was slightly cleaner than the last time they met. He must have washed it recently.

    Quinn kept his eyes ahead, but he''d occasionally turn to face her, catching her stare in the process.

    Fii quickly averted her eyes and pretended to focus on pushing the dolly cart, hoping he didn''t notice her staring at him.

    The pair rolled along, pulling their cargo as the crowds of people parted and closed around them, the ebb and flow of the slum''s daily traffic continuing unabated.

    "Hey, uh, so how did you get to know Rao?" Quinn finally spoke again. He sounded a bit awkward, like he was unsure how to start a conversation. "You two seemed close. Are you related or something?"

    "Nah, nothing like that," Fii shook her head. "I kinda stumbled across his shop a while back, and we hit it off. Been helping him out with deliveries and errands ever since. He''s a cool dude."

    "Oh yeah, I figured you two were close. The way he treats you feels a lot more relaxed compared to the other folks that he talks to," Quinn explained, glancing over at her. "Do you deliver stuff for him often?"

    "Not recently. I got...busy. But I help him out with odd jobs now and then. Enough for him to treat me to food sometimes."

    Quinn chuckled. "Same. Though he also teaches me things too."

    Fii glanced at him again. "Teach you things? What kind of things?"

    "Like maintenance, repairs, tinkering. Most of the stuff I know is thanks to him. Sometimes, he even lets me mess with the bigger gadgets to learn a few tricks of the trade. The man''s got a knack for this kind of stuff."

    "Cool! Hey, what''s this?" Fii asked, pointing at a small device hanging around Quinn''s neck. It had a black body, with a single lens protruding out the front. "Looks weird. Some kinda flashlight?"

    Quinn shook his head, smiling faintly. "No. It''s called a camera. See those lenses? The glass in front? That''s what lets you record things and take photos." He flipped a switch on the side, and the camera whirred to life. "Here, I''ll show you."

    Oooh...that''s a camera too? The only one she knew about was that micro-camera in her helmet. That one was so tiny, and embedded inside the helmet''s visor.

    This one was huge in comparison, so it was no wonder she didn''t recognize his.

    Quinn pointed the camera at Fii and clicked the shutter button. "Smile!" With a click, the camera let out a series of rapid mechanical whirring and clicking noises. Once Quinn finished, he turned the camera around to show her the small display screen on the back.

    The display showed a picture of Fii, blinking as she stared at it in surprise. It took a moment before she realized she was making a face, her mouth hanging half-open in shock and her eyes wide. Her hair was a bit disheveled too, sticking up in places.

    "Oh wow..." Fii reached out and touched the screen with her fingers, marveling at the photo. "So this is a camera too! Where''d you get this?"

    "From Rao, obviously," Quinn laughed as he put his camera back around his neck. "It''s an older model, but it still works fine. He has a few lying around that he lets me play with."

    The duo continued on, chatting idly about this and that. Occasionally, Fii would point out a vendor she recognized from the market. Other times, Quinn would comment on the shanties they passed.

    "Oh! I almost forgot to mention it but a short while ago, I ran into that Super called Axion while I was out repairing a pipe," Quinn remarked as they strolled down the street.

    Fii nearly froze in her tracks but quickly recovered, steadying the dolly cart and hoping Quinn didn''t catch her stumble.

    "Woah, you mean the superhero Axion?" she replied, playing dumb. "You met her? Uh, neat. What was she like? What''d she want?"

    "I think she was out on patrol and saw me working. Guess she got curious and started asking me about what I do around the slums. We talked for a while, and I got her to help me carry some stuff from my storage house to the site I was working at." Quinn''s face lit up excitedly as he spoke about her. "She was cool. Very friendly and approachable. Didn''t get to see her use any powers though, that was a shame."

    "Really? She just offered to help you move stuff around?" Fii asked. She wasn''t surprised that Quinn would have a good impression of her, but she didn''t expect him to talk so fondly of her alter-ego. Still, she couldn''t help but be curious as to what Quinn thought about Axion. It would be interesting to compare notes with her other self. "What else?"

    "Well, she asked for information about one of the gangs, the Neon Vipers, and I told her about their leader, ''Cobra'' Kasumi. I heard they were cooking up some new drug."

    Fii nodded along as Quinn rattled off his encounter with Axion, keeping her expression neutral as she listened. When he finished, she whistled appreciatively. "Wow, you met her and she even helped you out with moving stuff around. Lucky you. Anyways, enough about her. We''re almost at Lyria''s. Let''s hurry before we run into any trouble."

    "That''s too bad, ''cause trouble already found you." That unmistakable, gruff voice caused Fii''s blood to boil as she turned around to see Zoltar, the Gully Rats'' lieutenant, standing in their path, flanked by several of his gang members. They were dressed in their typical streetwear, with bandanas and hoodies adorning their heads and bodies.

    Damn it. This asshole again?! What the hell were they doing on the Neon Knight''s turf?

    Zoltar sneered as he sauntered up to Fii and Quinn, cracking his knuckles threateningly. "Well, well, well, if it isn''t the lil'' street-rat Fii. And her friend, too. Hiding behind a boyfriend now, are we? Where''d you pick him up? From the dumpster where the other garbage belongs?"

    Quinn stepped in front of Fii, shielding her with his body, and scowled at the approaching gangsters. "Hey! Get lost, Zoltar. You''re not welcome here. The Neon Knights don''t allow your gang within these streets. Take your goons and leave. Now."

    Zoltar cackled in response, halting a few meters away from them. His goons fanned out, encircling the duo. "Yeah? I ain''t scared of those neon-clothed rejects. Didn''t you hear that them and the Neon Vipers almost took each other out? They''re too busy lickin'' their wounds and hiding now, so who gives a shit? Gully Rat territory extends to these parts. You''d do best to remember that. Wouldn''t want to have to...teach you two a lesson in respect, now, would we?"

    He leered at Fii, licking his lips hungrily. "But first, we''re gonna have our fun with you, girl. I let you off easy with just a beating last time, but this time around...it''s going to be a lot more interesting. You''ll be comin'' with us, and your boyfriend can watch."

    Several of the gangsters snickered, murmuring amongst themselves. A few even gestured rudely at Fii, prompting a scowl from Quinn.

    Fii clenched her fists, trying to keep calm, but her temper flared all the same.

    There were eight thugs, including Zoltar, and he was carrying a pipe pistol strapped to his hip. The rest had either bats, crowbars, or knives.

    Quinn seemed like someone who could handle himself, but he was blind in one eye and only had a wrench.

    Against this many guys? Fat chance.

    They could still make a break for it and run away, but that would leave their cargo behind. Which meant she had no choice but to fight. Again. Only this time, She could easily beat all these punks in a straight fight. The only problem was how she''d do it without revealing herself. No using powers or anything obvious like that.

    But Zoltar had a gun. Things could go bad very quickly if he shot Quinn.

    Damn it, what should I do?

 Chapter 34: Just Desserts

    Quinn pulled out his wrench, clutching it tightly with both hands as he stood protectively in front of Fii. "Just stay behind me. I''ll handle them."

    "Aw, ain''t that sweet. Your boy-toy''s gonna save you! Or try to, at least. This''ll be fun to watch." Zoltar taunted. He drew his sidearm and pointed it at Quinn. "You know what, why don''t you toss that weapon away and kneel on the ground? Hands behind your back. Do what we say, and we''ll let you walk away with only a few broken bones. Otherwise...you might end up with a few bullet holes in ya."

    Quinn glared at the gangster, unfazed by the threat. "Not happening. Tell you what. We''re going to leave now. If you or your buddies lay a hand on us, you''re dead."

    The surrounding gang members broke into fits of laughter upon hearing those words, only to be silenced by a fierce glare from Zoltar.

    "Get a load of this guy. Thinks he''s some tough shit because he''s got a tool in his hands? Why don''t you show him what happens to trash when they disrespect me?" he hissed. "Grab them. I''ll teach them a lesson."

    The Gully Rats'' grins widened as they swarmed closer, spreading out to surround the duo. One of them brandished a length of steel chain, spinning its end in a loop as he moved to flank them. Another lifted his bat, wielding it with both hands as he advanced.

    Quinn shifted into a combat stance, gripping his wrench firmly, preparing to engage. He glanced back at Fii, whispering softly. "Don''t worry. I got this."

    No, I think you don''t.

    Fii gritted her teeth in frustration. Damn it. She had to act, but she needed a plan. And she needed to make sure that Quinn would be safe. A glance at the thug with the chain told her that he was her biggest concern at the moment.

    Before she could think of a plan, Quinn threw his wrench at Zoltar, taking him by surprise. The tool smacked into the hand that was holding the pistol, forcing the gangster to drop the gun.

    While the rest of the gangsters stared dumbfounded, Quinn lunged for the fallen weapon and picked it up. He whipped around, firing at the gangster carrying the chain. The first shot missed, but the second caught the thug in the shoulder, causing him to double over in pain, dropping the chain as he clutched the wound.

    Two other thugs rushed at Quinn. Quinn sidestepped one and bashed him in the jaw with the butt of the pistol, knocking him to the ground. He blocked a strike from the other, hitting him squarely in the chest with a well-placed kick, sending him sprawling backwards.

    The remaining gangsters hesitated, caught off guard by Quinn''s aggressive move.

    Quinn trained the pistol on them, pointing at their chests. "Back off. Right now."

    Fii blinked in astonishment.

    Wait...he really got this? Woah...

    With their momentum broken and the thug with the chain taken out of commission, the others fell back, hesitating. A few of them exchanged uncertain glances, shifting their gazes over to Zoltar, seeking guidance.

    The gang lieutenant snarled, pointing at Quinn angrily. "Stop standing around like idiots and grab him! I''ll kill you all if you screw this up. Rush!"

    His words spurred the thugs into action. They charged towards Quinn, roaring, brandishing their weapons. Quinn fired another round before it clicked empty. One of the charging thugs tumbled to the ground as a bullet struck him in the leg.

    The other four pounced on Quinn, tackling him to the ground. He struggled, throwing a punch and managing to knock one of them off. Two others jumped on top of him, slamming him back to the dirt. They pinned him down, punching and kicking as they restrained his arms and legs.

    "Fii, get outta here! Run!" Quinn cried out as he wrestled against the three assailants, twisting his body desperately as they punched him repeatedly. "I can''t hold them long¡ª" A vicious blow to the face cut off whatever else he intended to say, eliciting a pained grunt from Quinn.

    Argh! Damn it! I have to help him!

    "You two, deal with the girl." Zoltar ordered. Two of the goons detached themselves from the group wrestling with Quinn, grinning maliciously as they converged on Fii. "The rest of you, keep her friend occupied. Break his face, his legs, his arms¡ªwhatever¡ªjust keep him down and quiet. Once you''ve knocked the fight out of him, bring him over."

    As the gangsters approached, Fii backed away slowly, circling the cart with the package on it, trying to keep it between them and her. But they merely followed her movements, edging closer and closer until they could reach out and grab at her.

    Fii altered the gravity around her just enough to enhance her reflexes. That should be enough.

    One of the thugs lunged for Fii. Fii ducked, avoiding his grasping hands and slipping past him. Before he could react, she sprang upright again, slamming her fist into his temple. The thug stumbled sideways, stunned, dazed, and reeling. Fii capitalized on his disorientation, driving a powerful knee into his stomach, doubling him over as he gasped for air.

    Another thug came at her from the side, swinging a crowbar wildly.

    Fii darted under his attack, grabbed his arm, and flipped him over, slamming him to the ground.

    A third thug circled around to her left, wielding a knife. Fii feinted an attack, causing him to swing the blade in a wild arc. She snatched his wrist as he overextended and twisted his arm, forcing him to let go. She caught the falling knife in midair and threw it away. Then she launched an elbow into his face, smashing his nose. He crumpled to the ground, writhing and crying out in pain as blood spurted from his face.

    By this point, the first thug she''d attacked had recovered his wits and charged at her again. Fii blocked his punch, deflecting it to the side, then drove a palm into his face. His eyes rolled back as he collapsed in a heap, out cold. The second thug tried to tackle her, but Fii swept his feet out from under him and kicked him in the stomach. He crashed to the ground, groaning weakly as he curled into a ball.

    The gangsters surrounding Quinn stopped assaulting him long enough to gawk at the scene, distracted by the sight of Fii defeating her three opponents so easily.

    Zoltar stared wide-eyed for a moment before turning his rage on the trio who were supposed to subdue Quinn. "What the fuck are you doing!? Stop her! Hurry up, and help the others, damn it!" He barked furiously. "Do I have to do everything myself? Fine!"

    He charged at Fii, attempting to club her with a bat.

    Fii dodged, ducking low, and drove an uppercut into his chin as she rose, knocking him off balance. She then spun around, landing a swift kick to the back of his head. The impact sent the gang lieutenant sprawling forward, colliding face-first with the ground hard enough to send a plume of dust billowing up. He didn''t get back up.

    Meanwhile, Quinn had managed to free one arm, and he seized the opportunity to roll aside, dislodging one of the thugs from atop him. The thug grappled for his arm again, but Quinn grabbed him by the shirt collar and delivered a powerful headbutt, breaking his nose and splitting his lip. Blood poured freely from both injuries, and the thug backed away, holding his head in agony.

    Quinn shoved another thug off and scrambled to his feet. He raised his fists, glaring defiantly at the remaining two gang members. They regarded him warily, sizing him up. After a brief moment of hesitation, they decided discretion was the better part of valor, turning tail and running away.

    "Damn cowards, you get back here!" Zoltar''s furious yell echoed through the street as the fleeing pair retreated from sight, leaving only the gang''s battered and beaten leader behind.

    He attempted to crawl after them, but Fii strode over to where he lay and grabbed hold of his neck, lifting him effortlessly off the ground. "Ahhckkkk!" he sputtered in fear, clawing uselessly at Fii''s arm, trying futilely to escape her iron grip.

    She unceremoniously kneed him in his groin, cutting off whatever pathetic excuse he had to say, before tossing him away like the trash he was. He landed in a heap, whimpering as he writhed helplessly on the ground.

    That was...kinda satisfying, but also a bit disappointing. Her blood used to run cold whenever Zoltar and his crew showed up to harass her. Yet, now? That whole thing felt anticlimactic. The rush she felt when she fought Kasumi and her second-in-command was way more exhilarating than this.

    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    Was this really all she''d been afraid of before?

    Pathetic.

    Quinn jogged over to Fii, panting heavily. He was a bit bruised, and blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, but otherwise none the worse for wear. "Holy shit, Fii. Where''d you learn to fight like that? You totally thrashed them." He eyed her in awe.

    Uh, oh. She had to come up with an excuse fast.

    Fii leaned against the cart for support as if she were exhausted. "Oh, uh, that? Yeah, um, I saw a video somewhere about how to fight. Thought I''d give it a try. Seems it paid off." She forced a chuckle, trying her best to appear convincing.

    "Haha, yeah, no kidding." Quinn grinned. "Seriously though, that was incredible. You moved so fast, and were strong enough to take those guys down easily. Wish I could fight like that." He massaged his sore ribs gingerly. "Thanks for the assist, by the way. Sorry I couldn''t handle them all by myself, like I said."

    Fii shook her head dismissively. "Nah, I needed help, too. We worked together and that''s what counts. Hey, let''s get out of here before more of ''em show up. We''ve already wasted too much time dealing with these assholes." She paused to check the cargo on the dolly cart, ensuring it was still intact. Fortunately, everything seemed undamaged, so she exhaled a sigh of relief.

    She took hold of the handles again and started walking. This time, Quinn remained close by her side as she pushed the cart onward, ready to intervene if needed.

    "You good?" Fii asked as they trudged along.

    Quinn nodded, rubbing his bruises gingerly. "Yup, just a couple of bumps and scratches. Nothing serious." He wiped the blood from his mouth before flashing Fii a wry grin. "We make a pretty good team, don''t we?"

    I don''t know about that.

    "Guess so." She shrugged, returning the smile.

    She kept a close eye on the surroundings in case Zoltar or his goons had recovered and wanted revenge. Fortunately, nobody appeared to be following them. After a few minutes, she finally breathed a sigh of relief, satisfied that they were safe once more. "Okay, so, that was fun, but let''s never do that again."

    "Agreed." Quinn nodded vigorously. "The sooner we drop this thing off, the better. Hopefully nothing else will happen by the time we get there."

    "Same." Fii agreed as they continued their journey, making small talk along the way.

    After dropping off the air conditioner at Lyria''s place, Fii and Quinn made their way back through the Rust Market, stopping occasionally to buy some snacks along the way. Fii treated herself to a skewer of synthie meat and vegetables while Quinn indulged himself in a large bowl of soupy noodles.

    They chatted amiably as they strolled past various stalls, exchanging stories about their respective lives, trading jokes and funny anecdotes. Fii learned quite a bit about Quinn and his life in the slums. Like how he grew up here and learned his craft through trial and error, scrounging around for spare parts, salvaging bits of technology wherever he found them, building new devices out of old components, experimenting with different ideas in his spare time, teaching himself whatever he could.

    After passing by the water towers, Quinn paused to survey the area before speaking. "Hey, uh, about earlier...thanks for having my back. I owe you one."

    Fii waved him off. "No sweat. Thanks for coming with me. If anything had happened to Rao''s package, I''d probably get an earful, or even worst, be made to pay for everything. Couldn''t let that happen. Besides, I had to keep you safe too."

    "Still, though," Quinn persisted, "seriously, thank you. You saved my ass back there. I owe you big time."

    "Don''t worry about it, seriously." Fii smiled reassuringly. "We don''t always have to grind gears without oil, ya'' know?"

    Quinn laughed, clapping her on the shoulder lightly. "Alright, I''ll hold you to that. Here, let me treat you to lunch tomorrow to make up for today."

    Fii shook her head. "Nah, you don''t need to do that."

    "Please," Quinn insisted. "Just a little grub ''n'' guzzle. Let me do something nice for you. " He gave her an earnest smile. "Consider it a date. Whaddya say?"

    Fii hesitated for a moment before relenting. "Fine, fine, sure, why not?"

    "Great!" Quinn exclaimed cheerfully. "Meet me at Rao''s place at noon. Don''t be late!" He flashed Fii one last grin before bidding her farewell. "Alright, I gotta get back to work. Catch you later. Stay out of trouble, Fii!"

    "See ya." Fii waved goodbye.

    From the corner of her eye, beyond Quinn''s back, she spotted Zoltar and a few of his cronies approaching from an alleyway, pipe pistols drawn. They aimed their guns directly at them.

    Before she could cry out a warning, her body moved faster than her mind.

    She stepped in front of Quinn just as the loud crack of gunfire split the air, drowning out his surprised yelp of alarm.

    As the bullets streaked towards her, Fii focused on their trajectories, adjusting her gravikinesis to affect them. She imagined a vortex around her and Quinn, a gravity field that would bend the path of the bullets away from them. But unlike the time she used it around Virgil, she made sure to give space inside so that Quinn wouldn''t fall prey to her power.

    The barrier caught each bullet in mid-flight, slowing them down just enough so she could alter their vectors and push them off-course.

    But...why just move them away? Why couldn''t I just...

    Fii concentrated, adjusting her gravity field to spin the bullets around them like tiny satellites, keeping them locked in their trajectory. The bullets spiraled and whizzed around them in a perfect circle, forming a barrier of moving metal projectiles.

    Then she moved her hands, carefully directing the bullets'' paths, bending their paths, so they aligned with the gangsters. The bullets soared through the air, tracing a trail of sparks as they bore down on their targets.

    Zoltar''s eyes widened in horror as the projectiles hurtled towards him.

    The bullets hit the gangsters'' weapons, sending them flying through the air and knocking their owners off their feet. One bullet grazed Zoltar''s left arm, tearing through his skin and leaving a shallow gash. The rest of the bullets hit their marks, hitting the thugs'' shins, calves, and thighs, and drawing a chorus of pained cries from the gangsters as they limped away.

    Zoltar cursed loudly as he stumbled back, clutching his bleeding arm. "What the fuck?! She''s a Meta?!!" he yelled. "Goddamn it! Forget this shit!" He spat angrily before gesturing for his gang to retreat, not even bothering to pick up the weapons they''d dropped. "Let''s get outta here!"

    The gangsters hurriedly hobbled after him, cursing and shouting profanities as they fled into the distance.

    Once they disappeared, Fii lowered her hand, exhaling a shaky breath as she released her gravity field.

    Quinn slumped to the ground beside Fii, his jaw slack with disbelief. "Fii...You¡ªyou have powers? You''re a Meta?"

    Fii''s eyes widened, realizing what she''d done. Her eyes darted around the area to see if anyone else saw her. It didn''t seem like anyone did. Only Zoltar and his goons knew she was a Meta. And Quinn now, too.

    Crap. Not good. Not good!

    "Sorry, I gotta go," she blurted out before rushing off, but Quinn reached out and grabbed her hand, stopping her.

    "Wait!" He tugged on her wrist. "Hold on a sec. Hold on a second. How...? Where...?" he spluttered, unable to formulate his question coherently. "Just, hang on. You''ve been a Meta all this time? Is that why you knew how to fight so well?"

    "Yeah, kinda," Fii replied hesitantly, averting her gaze from Quinn''s. "I mean, yes, kinda, sorta, yeah. Um, look, please don''t tell anyone, okay? It''s kind of a secret. I can trust you, right? Promise me you won''t tell anybody, please?" she begged desperately, staring into Quinn''s eyes.

    Quinn hesitated briefly but nodded. "O-of course. I promise, I''ll keep this a secret. You can count on me. Just...wow...I never would have guessed you were a Meta. That''s...crazy." He glanced around to ensure they were still alone and lowered his voice, leaning closer. "Fii, I swear I''ll keep this a secret, but those guys from the Gully Rats also saw you; walls talk, streets scream. Are you going to be okay?"

    Probably not. Edith isn''t gonna like this one bit, and Virgil would probably lose his mind.

    "Uh..." She frowned, unsure how to respond. "I''ll...figure something out. I''m...gonna go now. Bye. I''ll see you later."

    "Um, wait, what¡ª" Quinn began to reply, but she rushed off before he could finish.

    <hr>

    Zoltar''s muffled scream cut through the air as Virgil slowly pressed his bowie knife through the man''s chest. His blood seeped onto the dusty concrete of his dive, forming a dark crimson puddle beneath him. Virgil''s other arm grappled the gangster''s throat, constricting his breathing, and preventing him from uttering more than a pathetic croak.

    Around them, several gangsters lay sprawled out on the floor, all dead from stab wounds.

    Virgil dug his knife deeper into Zoltar''s flesh until it was hilt deep, then twisted the blade.

    Zoltar choked in his blood, then finally went limp, his eyes glazing over as he bled out. Virgil withdrew the knife and flicked the blood off. He stood over the bodies for a few moments, gazing at them with contempt.

    This wouldn''t be the last of the Gully Rats. Their leader would just appoint someone else. But Virgil didn''t care; these scum became more of a liability since they saw Fii''s power. He wiped the bloodied blade clean on Zoltar''s jacket and tucked it back into his boot holster before stepping outside.

    He''ll have to signal the Pallbearers to remove the bodies; the blood stains will be a chore to clean.

    The sun had set by now. No doubt Edith was berating Fii at the clinic for being reckless and displaying her power outside of her heroic alter-ego. The kid deserved the tongue-lashing; she had no business using her powers for personal reasons. He was confident she understood the risks, but sometimes, young people are blinded by emotion, especially when it comes to protecting their friends.

    Well, hopefully this experience will serve as a sobering lesson.

    Virgil lit a cigar and puffed away as he gazed upon the dilapidated landscape. He walked through the narrow alleyways toward a small storage building, passing by the locals who scurried away at his approach.

    Good, the fear keeps them from meddling.

    He picked the lock and opened the door to a dimly lit interior. A row of tables stood covered in equipment, tools, and random junk. He scanned the space and saw the guy who was with Fii earlier, working at the far end of the room. The kid hadn''t noticed him yet; he was busy tinkering with some contraption. He didn''t even hear the door open or Virgil approach.

    Virgil coughed deliberately, drawing his attention.

    Startled, the guy dropped whatever he held, scattering its contents everywhere. He looked up and gulped visibly. "Oh, uh...hello? Can I...help you with something?"

    Virgil leaned casually against the wall, taking a puff of his cigar. "Sit down," he instructed in a calm tone. "We need to talk."

 Chapter 35: Man-to-Man

    Quinn stared fearfully at the man looming over him with a lit cigar hanging from the corner of his mouth. He had no idea who this person was, but judging by the atmosphere alone, he could tell he wasn''t in a good situation.

    "Who..." he gulped nervously, "who are you?"

    The man took a drag of his cigar and exhaled a cloud of smoke, further filling the air with a hazy fog. He studied Quinn for a moment before answering, "Call me Virgil. And you''re Quinn, correct? Fii''s friend."

    How does he know that? And why is he talking about Fii? Is she in trouble?

    "I don''t know who that is," Quinn lied.

    "Come now, boy, we both know that''s not true," Virgil chuckled, his face hidden within the shadows cast by the flickering light above. "Just tell me what I want to hear, and I might let you go without breaking too many bones." He placed his hand on the table, drumming his fingers impatiently. "And if you''d rather be stubborn, I could always beat the information out of you."

    Quinn flinched at the threat, instinctively shrinking away, his back pressing against his chair. "Why do you want to know about Fii? What are you planning to do with her? She hasn''t done anything wrong."

    "Interesting...and noble, if foolish," Virgil observed coolly. "Protecting a friend, despite the risks involved." He paused, taking another draw of his cigar, letting the smoke billow around his face before exhaling. "But I wonder...how loyal is that friendship, eh, boy? Would you betray her if your life depended on it? Or are you truly willing to risk your own well-being for someone else?"

    Is this guy crazy? Of course, he''d protect Fii.

    Sure, they''d only met recently, but despite the short time they''d known each other, Quinn considered her a friend. She saved his life. There was no way he''d turn against her. And besides, the slums only reward those who survive. Betrayal only benefits yourself. And those that do don''t often live long anyway.

    "Look, buddy, I don''t know what your problem is with Fii, but I ain''t saying squat." Quinn crossed his arms defensively and leaned back, crossing his legs, acting as nonchalant as possible despite the situation. "So, either start explaining why you''re after her or fuck off."

    Virgil let out another chuckle, clearly amused by Quinn''s brazen response.

    Suddenly, Virgil pulled out his gun and aimed it at him, cocking the hammer.

    "Tsk, tsk, you wanna run that by me again? Last chance. Talk now or else." Virgil narrowed his eyes, fixing Quinn with a deathly stare.

    Shit! This guy''s serious!

    Quinn grunted as he slammed his foot against the table, flipping it up and over. He lunged for Virgil, grabbing his wrist and squeezing tightly to stop him from pulling the trigger.

    However, the older man''s strength proved to be superior, and he flung Quinn to the ground like a ragdoll, pinning him to the concrete with a boot firmly planted on his chest. He grinned as he squeezed the trigger, aiming the gun right at Quinn''s forehead.

    Damn...well, at least I tried. Guess this is it.

    Quinn closed his eyes, waiting for the inevitable sound of a gunshot to ring out. However, nothing came. He slowly opened his eyes to find Virgil studying him intently, his finger still hovering over the trigger.

    "You got balls, I''ll give you that." He removed his foot, allowing Quinn to sit up. "Maybe I underestimated you."

    "What''s going on?" Quinn asked, bewildered by Virgil''s change in attitude. "You gonna tell me why you were asking me about Fii now, or you gonna threaten me again?"

    Virgil put his gun back into the holster and flipped the table upright again before sitting down opposite Quinn. He crossed his legs and took another puff of his cigar, seemingly content to relax now after the brief confrontation.

    "Alright, alright. Maybe you''re not the one I should be threatening. Besides, I think you''ve proved yourself more than enough. I''m a friend of hers, you could say. A guardian. Sort of, anyway." Virgil leaned forward and met Quinn''s gaze. "My main priority is her safety. So, I just wanna make sure she''s in good hands. Do you understand?"

    Quinn blinked in surprise. This guy was trying to protect Fii? Then where the hell was he when those Gully Rats attacked them earlier? They both could''ve been killed.

    "How do I know you''re telling the truth?" Quinn demanded. "How can I trust you if you threatened to shoot me a minute ago? Who are you?"

    "Does the name ''Backfire'' ring a bell?"

    Backfire? Who doesn''t know that name? He was an infamous gunslinger who tried establishing a police force in the slums a decade ago. Got most of the major gangs under control for a while but eventually wound up disappearing. A lot of rumors spread about his death.

    Wait...gunslinger? Cowboy? This guy fits the description. Holy shit. Does that mean...?

    Virgil smirked knowingly. "Smart kid."

    "Oh, wow...I, um...oh." Quinn sat there, flabbergasted.

    Fii was friends with the legendary Backfire?!

    "Now that we''ve established who I am and why I''m here, let''s continue our discussion, shall we?" Virgil rested his elbows on top of the table and folded his hands together.

    Quinn tried to speak, but Virgil held up a finger, silencing him. "I''m going to ask you a few questions, and I want honest answers. Understand?" His tone brooked no argument.

    "Yes, sir, I understand," Quinn mumbled obediently.

    "Good. First, tell me about your relationship with Fii. How long have you known her?"

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    "Um, I''ve only met her a couple of times. The first time was a while ago. I happened to come across her at the water towers. We had a brief talk. Then today was the second time, when we delivered a package together."

    Virgil nodded thoughtfully. "So, you only met her recently. What did you think of her? Did she strike you as anything out of the ordinary? Different from the usual girl?"

    "Different how?"

    "Don''t play dumb with me, Quinn. I know you''ve seen Fii''s power. And the way you acted after that brawl with the Gully Rats, you clearly have questions. Spit them out."

    The memory of Fii fighting off those thugs replayed in Quinn''s mind, replaying again and again. "It''s...it''s hard to explain," he stammered, struggling to piece his thoughts together. "When I first met Fii, there was something different about her, but I couldn''t put my finger on exactly what it was. Today, when she saved me, that confirmed it for me. She''s a Meta, is she?"

    Virgil took a long, thoughtful drag of his cigar before exhaling the smoke through his nostrils. "And how do you feel about that fact?"

    "About what fact? That Fii is a Meta?" Quinn shrugged nonchalantly. "I''m cool with it. So what if she''s a Meta? Who cares? It doesn''t make any difference to me." He scratched his head absentmindedly. "If anything, it makes her special. Someone worth knowing. There aren''t any Metas in the slums except¡ª"

    Hold on.

    There was another Meta in the slums. Axion. He heard that she was a Super who came from the slums, and from the one time he spoke with her, he got the sense that she might''ve been a local, too.

    Is Fii¡ª? No, that can''t be. Could she be...?

    "Aaaand you figured it out. Well done," Virgil complimented mockingly, applauding sarcastically. "So, what are you going to do with this information, hm?"

    Wait...so Fii really is Axion?!

    Quinn gaped in disbelief. "Oh...oh crap. I was right?"

    "Yup, good job, bub. Now, if you''d be so kind as to answer my next question. What do you plan to do with what you''ve learned?"

    "Nothing," Quinn declared resolutely, straightening himself. "I promised her that I''d keep this a secret. And I intend to keep that promise." He met Virgil''s icy glare. "Besides, as far as I''m concerned, we''re all in the same boat. All of us who live in the slums are victims of circumstance. Just trying to make ends meet and survive another day."

    A faint smirk flashed across Virgil''s face, disappearing so quickly Quinn could''ve imagined it.

    "Very good." Virgil leaned back and rested his boots on top of the table. "Glad we''re on the same page."

    Quinn breathed a sigh of relief, glad he seemed to have earned the man''s approval. However, one question remained that nagged at his mind.

    "Can I ask you something, too, mister?" Quinn inquired carefully. "What is your connection to Fii? What''s your stake in all of this?"

    Virgil scoffed. "Hmph, straightforward and honest, yet cunning enough to seek leverage. Impressive." He stubbed his cigar butt out on the table and tossed it aside. "Simply put, I''m her mentor, trainer, and overseer. The one responsible for making her the hero you see today."

    Quinn raised an eyebrow skeptically. "The one behind Axion? Really?"

    "Yep. But unlike her, I prefer to work in the background. Stay out of the spotlight. I handle logistics, training, tactical support, and surveillance." Virgil explained as if he''d rehearsed the spiel a hundred times over. "You could say I''m an enabler in her journey. And now we''ve come to the second reason why I came here to speak with you."

    "Huh? Second reason? What do you mean?"

    "You know her identity, and based on what I''ve just seen, you''re not just a typical street rat. You''ve been working to try and make the slums a better place, haven''t you?" Virgil gestured at the various projects lying on the tables. "Repairing broken tech, creating new things, and trying to improve the conditions here. You could say you have a bit of an altruistic streak in you."

    Quinn rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Y-yeah, but not like it''s been easy. Not with the gangs running wild, doing whatever they want. Trying to make things better around here, helping out whoever I can, is something I do in my spare time. It''s tough, but I try."

    "Of course, I get it, and I can appreciate that. You''ve got talent, kid. Too bad there are so few people like you in these parts. So, I want you to join us." Virgil clapped his hands together loudly, startling Quinn with the sudden gesture. "You''re a good fighter, and you''ve got smarts, too. We could use someone like you."

    Join them? As in, become a hero like Fii? But he wasn''t a Meta. He couldn''t fight or do anything incredible like her. All he could do was fix and repair stuff. There was no point in recruiting him.

    "Me? Become a Super?" Quinn scoffed and shook his head. "That''s ridiculous. I can''t do what you guys do. I''m not a Meta. And I can barely hold my own in a fight."

    "Being a Meta isn''t everything, Quinn. Not by a long shot," Virgil stated bluntly. "Having powers isn''t necessary to be a hero. The same goes for being strong, fast, smart, or talented. It takes heart, dedication, and willingness to stand up for those in need, no matter how small or insignificant they may be. Anyone can be a hero. All you need is the will to help others, no matter what."

    Quinn stayed silent, digesting those words.

    "The world''s full of assholes, and most people only care about themselves. The slums are full of those kinds of folks. The same goes for the metropolis. You probably know that already. The problem with humanity is that we tend to care too much about the little things, neglecting the important things right in front of us."

    Virgil tapped his finger against his temple as he pondered for a moment before continuing. "So, if nobody else bothers to take action, that responsibility falls on the shoulders of those with a conscience and moral character. People like you and me. If nobody helps the slums, and nobody saves the city, then there''s nothing left. Understand? Everyone has a part to play. Even if they think they can''t contribute much."

    "I guess, but..." Quinn trailed off.

    "Believe me, you''d make an excellent partner. Especially since you''ve already formed a bond with Fii. Your presence will help keep her grounded." He crossed his arms and gave Quinn an appraising glance. "Honestly, I''m impressed by your capabilities and skills. Even with only one eye, you manage to do things most kids in the slums never learn. You can operate heavy machinery, repair utilities, and even do basic combat, apparently."

    "Mmm, I suppose, yeah." Quinn admitted sheepishly. "But what makes you so sure that I''ll be useful? Sure, I can help fix a few broken generators or pipes, but that won''t stop the gang wars or clean the streets. Isn''t that what Supers do?"

    "We can''t do everything ourselves. Even Supers need assistants." Virgil gave him a sly grin. "Making the slums a better place ain''t just about cleaning out the garbage. It''s about inspiring others to do their part too. I reckon with a bit of coaching and training, you could be a decent hero someday. Nothing big and fancy, but helpful in your own right."

    "Hero, huh...you really think so?" Quinn wondered, weighing the notion. "Never really considered it before. Never had a reason to. Most days, I spend trying to figure out how to stay alive, you know?"

    "I get that. It''s difficult for everyone," Virgil commiserated, "but the time has come for the slums to change. If you can''t get the help you need from the metropolis, then you''ve gotta step up and take matters into your own hands. The time for passivity is over. All that remains is action. Take a stand." He extended his hand towards Quinn. "Will you join us?"

    It wasn''t often he''d had a profound conversation about philosophy, society, and morality in general. But he couldn''t help but agree with Virgil''s stance. If this was an attempt to recruit him, he''d fallen for it hook, line, and sinker. If this guy had been a gang leader instead of a vigilante, he''d likely be leading a criminal empire right now.

    "Well, I''ve always wanted to do more," Quinn admitted, accepting Virgil''s offer. "Make a difference, in any way I can. I don''t care about fame or glory, I just wanna do what''s right."

    Virgil smiled proudly. "Then welcome aboard."

    They shook hands firmly. The older man''s grip almost crushed Quinn''s hand, but he endured the pain with a grimace and kept shaking. When they separated, he flexed his fingers to ease the lingering soreness.

    "Alright, now that we''ve gotten that settled," Virgil remarked, rubbing his hands together, "let''s discuss how we''re going to get you ready for this gig, shall we?"

 Chapter 36: Slippery Slope

    Axion patrolled her route through the slums, keeping an eye out for trouble or people in need of help. Most days were slow like this, but today was especially boring, as there wasn''t much going on.

    But as the morning turned to the afternoon, she encountered several cases of muggings, attempted robberies, and street fights. She helped out in those situations as much as she could. Muggings and robberies were straightforward; she''d jump in, subdue the muggers or thieves, and that was that.

    Street fights, though? They happened every hour of every day.

    In the slums, everyone expected that they''d get robbed, stabbed, or beaten at one point in their lives. It was part of the daily grind of survival. But despite their commonplace, stealing and indiscriminate violence was never accepted by the populace. Everybody hated them, but they occurred often enough to have become the norm. Most people developed a system of coping, turning a blind eye to them unless they were the victims.

    Street fights were a little different. As long as nobody died or was permanently crippled, nobody cared too much. And the people involved were usually just settling scores and paying back debts. It was a good outlet for relieving stress and boredom. Sometimes, bets were placed and prizes earned, which made street fights even more common.

    As long as the fight didn''t involve an adult picking on a kid, or a group attacking a lone victim, it was fair game. The only problem with that was that some kids picked fights with adults on purpose¡ªsomething Fii had done in the past.

    As Axion though, she tried not to get involved with street fights.

    One of the slums'' unwritten law was: leave them to do as they please unless they''re messing with you or your property. This rule applied to street fights, and Axion usually obeyed it, but sometimes she couldn''t help herself. She had to intervene when the fighting got too bloody, or when the winner didn''t accept the loser''s surrender.

    But she was careful not to pick sides, only showing up when both parties wanted to kill each other. This way, she appeared neutral, even-handed, and avoided appearing biased or unfair. In general, she''d subdue all participants, and once they calmed down, she''d let them go.

    The worst she had to deal with were insults and threats, which she ignored. She did receive a few comments and complaints here and there, mostly from the victims. They often commented about her invading their privacy and intruding on their private matters. To this, she''d politely apologize, and occasionally remind them that she''d saved their lives. They''d scowl or curse in return, and that would be the end of it.

    Sometimes though, she received grateful responses instead of hostile ones. Whenever she received praise or thanks, she''d give the person a nod. Whether that was the right response or not, she had no clue. It felt appropriate, so she stuck with it.

    Whenever the gangs showed up to fight each other, Axion made sure to stay away. She only intervened if innocent people were caught in the crossfire. Otherwise, she''d let them sort things out amongst themselves. They could kill each other for all she cared; that was the life they''d chosen for themselves.

    Axion sighed softly as she stepped away from another brawl. Today has been peaceful...Well, as peaceful as things could get. Her thoughts wandered to the question that had been bugging her all morning. Did Zoltar tell anyone else what he saw?

    It had been a week since the incident with Zoltar, but there wasn''t any news about her being a metahuman anywhere¡ªnot even any tin talk. No gangsters had shown up actively looking for her, and no one in the slums seemed to be acting any differently towards her. It was like nothing had changed at all.

    She couldn''t believe Zoltar would let this opportunity pass him by. Even if he didn''t connect the dots immediately, surely he''d put two and two together and figure out that she was Axion. So why hasn''t he done anything about it?

    She had brought this up to Virgil during their training session, and the man had merely shrugged, saying that gangsters weren''t known for being smart. Zoltar and his crew might have simply forgotten or written it off as a hallucination. But she doubted that; a person doesn''t just forget seeing a metahuman use their abilities in front of them.

    So, what was going on?

    On her patrols, she tried looking for him, but there were no signs of him or the people he was with. The rest of the Gully Rats were still around; their leader, Twitch Marlow, had replaced Zoltar with a new lieutenant.

    The echo in the alley floating around was that Zoltar had been killed by the surviving Neon Knights who had it out for him.

    Whether that was true or not, she didn''t know, but what mattered was that she was no longer at risk of discovery.

    She trusted that Quinn would keep her secret, but she hadn''t spoken with him since their encounter with the Gully Rats. She saw him every once in a while when she went on her patrols. At least he was alive and didn''t mysteriously disappear. Now she just had to find the time to sit with him and explain herself.

    Her mind wandered to the evening Edith scolded her after her fight with the Gully Rats. When she first told her about Zoltar''s attack and explained how she had saved Quinn and herself, Edith went ballistic, unleashing a verbal tirade about the dangers of revealing her secret identity. The lecture lasted almost the whole night, and afterward, she banned her from patrolling for several days.

    Virgil had also kept her on a short leash, ordering her to avoid any confrontations with the gangs and restricting her patrols to specific routes. Surprisingly, he had been the least stern and judgmental compared to Edith. Instead, he asked her if she regretted using her abilities to save her friend.

    Her answer was ''no''.

    That seemed enough for Virgil because he didn''t bring it up again, and the days passed quietly, without further incident.

    So, here she was, patrolling the same familiar streets, keeping watch over the slums, not encountering anything out of the ordinary.

    Bored out of her mind, she headed for the water towers to take a quick break before resuming her rounds.

    <hr>

    Axion''s fight against ''Cobra'' Kasumi and her lieutenant made her realize one thing: she needed to get more creative with how she used her power. So far, she had only used her power to boost her agility, make herself lighter or heavier, make others heavier or lighter, deflect projectiles, and make her attacks hit harder.

    Her biggest attack was her Shockwave Stomp, where she slammed her foot into the ground, creating a localized gravitational distortion that sent shockwaves through the earth. She could also adjust the strength of her stomp, changing its intensity and range, depending on the situation.

    This was the move she came up with after reading through a bunch of books on gravity and physics that Edith handpicked for her. She wasn''t a genius like Edith, so it took her a lot of effort and concentration to understand them, but eventually, she got the concepts down¡ªor at least enough to implement them.

    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    Still, even though she was able to do all these things, it felt as if she was only scratching the surface of her power. There were still a lot of things she didn''t get yet.

    When she thought about making those bullets orbit her and Quinn, and then fly back to her target, she was pretty proud of herself. She imagined those gravitational vortexes, instead of repelling the projectiles, creating a sort of gravity tunnel, where the bullets flew straight but followed the curvature of her gravitational field. Then all she needed to do afterwards was to aim that tunnel at the gangsters and let the bullets free.

    If she could use her power in such a sophisticated way, then what else could she do?

    According to Edith, and also from what Axion observed, her gravity field extended to a meter away from her body. It didn''t really explain why she could pick up a big object that extended past her field and still affect it, but that''s how her power worked, so she accepted that fact.

    But maybe they both overlooked something, or maybe there were some hidden details that they never considered.

    What if her field could extend farther than that? What if she could spread her power out to encompass an entire building, or an entire block, or even the entire slums?

    Now THAT would be cool!

    Unfortunately, she still couldn''t do anything like that, nor did she understand how to do it. Maybe it''ll slowly happen with time as she continues to use her power. Who knows?

    For now, she had to work with what she currently had: an invisible aura surrounding her that manipulated gravity within a meter''s radius.

    So, how else could she use her power?

    It would be nice to eventually fly around. She could kind of do that already, but only in a limited sense. When she made herself lighter, she could jump higher and farther, hover in mid-air, or float while falling. But that didn''t seem like actually flying.

    How else could she use gravity to move around?

    As Axion sat atop the water tower, letting her feet dangle over the edge, her mind continued to wander. She glanced over at a guy sliding around on a pair of roller skates. The guy looked so relaxed as he propelled himself across the ground.

    Huh, that looks fun.

    Axion watched him skate around. She studied the way he moved, noticing how he used the inclines and declines in the terrain to propel himself. She wondered if she could do that.

    Could she control her gravity field to create a smooth slide using the ground itself? How would that even work?

    Roller skates worked on friction. Because of those wheels on their bottom, they could move across the ground easier than walking.

    Maybe she could try the same thing. But instead of wheels, she could use her gravity to reduce her friction somehow?

    Hmm, but how would she do that? She didn''t have a wheel or anything. She only had her feet.

    Hold on. Weight was pretty important here. She could reduce her weight so that she''d have less friction when walking, but then what? She had already been doing that for a while now, it just made her faster and more agile.

    What else could she do to move like that?

    Then an idea popped into her mind.

    Axion jumped down from the water tower, landing in a crouch. She straightened up, grinning as she dusted herself off. "Time to do some experimenting."

    She concentrated, using her gravity field to reduce her weight like she''d done to increase her speed and agility.

    Alright, step one: success.

    Axion started running like normal. She picked up speed, the familiar sensation of lightness under her feet making each step feel like a brush against the ground. She felt the subtle tug of gravity, the way it anchored her even as she willed herself lighter.

    Right, this was the easy part. She was just lowering her weight and moving faster. She could do that normally. Now what? She was faster, sure, but she didn''t have the gliding motion she was aiming for.

    "Okay, think... what gives skaters that smooth glide?" she murmured to herself.

    She thought back to the roller skater, how his movements had a fluidity, a rhythm that seemed to dance with the terrain. Axion tried to mimic that, adding a slight sway to her steps, but it wasn''t quite right. It was too... normal.

    Her brow furrowed in concentration. What if she didn¡¯t just reduce her weight but manipulated the gravitational pull around her feet more dynamically? The idea was like a spark igniting in her mind.

    Pausing, she focused on her feet, envisioning a gentle wave of energy emanating from each sole, interacting with the environment, adjusting the pull of gravity ever so slightly to create a natural slipstream beneath her soles¡ªthe gravitational field under her feet becoming asymmetric, stronger at the back, weaker at the front.

    Axion tentatively pushed off the ground with her right foot, trying to feel the difference. To her surprise, she slid forward a few extra centimeters.

    And then, suddenly, it clicked. She twisted her foot slightly, angling her graviton field, and felt herself glide smoothly to the left. A small shift to the right, and she curved back, tracing a graceful arc on the asphalt.

    A grin spread across her face. This was it! She took a tentative step forward, then another. It was awkward at first, like learning to walk again, but she soon found her footing.

    Now for the real test.

    She began to run again, this time altering the gravitational field with each step. She pushed off with her left foot, then her right, each time extending the slide, allowing her to cover more ground in fewer strides.

    The first few attempts were clumsy. She veered off too sharply, almost stumbling, her arms flailing for balance.

    Her legs began to ache from the constant motion, and her feet felt like they were being rubbed raw.

    [TSFI: 0.53]

    Yeah, yeah. I know.

    She slowed down, pacing herself.

    Now, for direction. She remembered the skater''s subtle shifts in weight, how he leaned to steer.

    Mimicking that, Axion angled her foot slightly, feeling the subtle shift in her trajectory. Then she repeated the maneuver with her other foot, leaning forward this time, and swiveling her hips to add momentum to her turns.

    She experimented, varying her lean, sometimes sharp for tight turns, sometimes gentle for wide, sweeping arcs. It was like learning a new dance, her body adapting to the rhythm of her gravitational manipulation. She even altered the gravity around her hands to increase her balance, providing extra support as she turned. Just like rudders, she could control her direction by angling her hands and feet, manipulating their localized gravitational fields with subtle movements.

    With each step, her confidence grew. She spun in a tight arc, picking up speed as she zipped past the startled bystanders.

    Axion let out a giddy laugh. "This is great! It''s not flying, but it''s so fun! I might need to give myself a name for this style, hmm, something with the word ''glide'' in it, I guess. Gravity Glide! Okay, I can work with that."

    She practiced for a while, skating back and forth through the slums, her mind racing as she pondered how she could incorporate this technique into combat.

    As she finally slowed to a stop, Axion stood there for a moment, catching her breath and marveling at what she''d just achieved. A rush of excitement coursed through her, and she couldn''t help but grin.

    She looked back at the roller skater in the distance, still gliding around on his wheels.

    Thanks for the inspiration, slumshine. But this, this is my own spin.

    As exciting as this discovery was, she needed to keep in mind that she was doing this for a reason, and that was to help the people of the slums. Plus, if she let herself get too distracted, she might end up neglecting her duties and let bad guys do whatever they want. She should go back to what she does best.

    Luckily, that came easily for her.

    But¡­maybe she could slide around just a little bit longer.

    <hr>

    Axion continued her gravity-defying dash through the slums, her feet barely touching the ground as she slid around corners and down alleys. But as she maneuvered through the labyrinth of streets, a nagging sensation began to grow. Something was off.

    At first, she thought it was just the strain of using her powers in such a continuous, demanding way. But then she felt it¡ªa slight stickiness with each step, a drag that hadn''t been there before.

    She skidded to a stop, looking down at her boots. The soles were wearing thin¡ªand these were supposed to be sturdy. The friction of her slides, despite being reduced, was taking its toll.

    "Aww...son of a¡ª"

 Chapter 37: Down From a New Perspective

    After trying out her new skill for a little while longer, she stopped when the adrenaline wore off and her feet and legs grew tired. The more she used her new gravitational slide ability, the more she learned how to control her movements, so that she could minimize the wear and tear to her body.

    Still, the physical strain of continually shifting gravity around herself added up quickly. As soon as she stopped, a dull, throbbing ache settled into her bones.

    She headed over to a bench and collapsed onto it, stretching out her legs and massaging her sore muscles. A satisfied sigh escaped her lips as she rested, taking the moment to enjoy the brief respite.

    Her eyes drifted over the scenery as her mind wandered, thinking back to the fight with the Neon Vipers. She couldn''t shake off the memory of Kasumi''s smug smile when she thought she had the upper hand. She also recalled how fast the woman fought. Faster than anyone else Axion had come across so far.

    And her nanowire things. Those were pretty terrifying.

    Edith had given her a basic rundown on how those wires worked while she was recovering from the fight. Tech like that was uncommon even in the metropolis, but a lot of criminals there had access to it.

    It didn''t take much for Axion to piece together that Kasumi and probably a lot of the Neon Vipers weren''t from the slums, but instead, they were exiles from the metropolis.

    The bigger gangs were like that too, so she shouldn''t be surprised. Still, she couldn''t help but wonder: how many other gangs here had access to tech like that?

    If it was just pipe guns¡ªor even actual guns¡ªshe''d be fine. But nanotech? That changed the stakes. What other weird weapons would she have to fight against in the future?

    Maybe she should start using weapons herself. Virgil had offered to teach her, but the idea of shooting or stabbing people always felt wrong to her. Sure, punching or kicking them wasn''t much better, but it just felt different. As long as she made sure not to put too much force behind her blows, she wouldn''t have to worry about accidentally killing someone with her power.

    Shooting at them with a gun or slicing them up with a knife? That seemed more likely to kill them or cripple them. She had no intention of becoming a murderer, even if those people might deserve it¡ª

    Oh...

    Well, she did use her power to reflect the bullets that Zoltar and his goons shot at her and Quinn. At the time, she was preoccupied with self-defense, so she didn''t think twice about it. Now though, the realization struck her. She could''ve killed them back there. Just a little bit of misdirecting here, and the bullets would''ve torn through their faces and necks, leaving nothing but a red mist in their place.

    "Did I...almost become a murderer that day?"

    The words left her mouth before she even registered them.

    She let them sink in, dwelling on the possibility that she may have been teetering on the edge of crossing a line, something that she swore never to do.

    But in the heat of that moment, that was the last thing that crossed her mind. All she cared about at the time was keeping Quinn safe and fighting back. Using the bullets they fired back at them? Yeah, that seemed perfectly reasonable in her mind.

    No one could''ve blamed her for reacting that way, could they?

    Axion shook her head. It''s not like she planned on killing them. She just wanted to get them off their backs. Besides, no one died, right? Everyone walked away alive with only a few bullet holes in them.

    That had to count for something.

    <hr>

    As she took a break, she glanced over at the Tower of Songs. It stood tall above the slums, one of the only remaining landmarks from back when the slums was...well, just a normal city.

    Edith had mentioned that the place used to be called the Paarasoft Building, and it used to be the city''s pride and joy, housing the corporate headquarters for a big company.

    Now it was nothing but a relic.

    But despite that, the place became some sort of haven for musicians, artists, and other creative types. People gathered in the courtyard and on the balconies to perform, playing instruments, singing, or reciting poetry. Those performances drew crowds, and ChitCreds flowed. Food, drugs, and booze sold like water, and those profits were used to support the performers and hire more security. Soon, the place became known as the Tower of Songs.

    The whole complex became as close to a self-sufficient community as you could get in the slums. It almost seemed like an entirely different world, separate from the rest of the grimy, crime-ridden, poverty-stricken place. Even the gangs respected its status as neutral territory and rarely caused any trouble there.

    Performers lived on the upper floors and worked together to maintain the building, renovating and refurbishing old rooms to turn them into apartments, studios, and galleries.

    The ground level was converted into a large hall, where live music could be enjoyed. The main area contained food and drink stalls, and even had an open-air stage, where theatre and dance shows were performed. The courtyard and balcony areas served as outdoor spaces, allowing people to enjoy the weather and relax between indoor shows.

    Most of the electricity that the metropolis drip-fed into the slums also went to the Tower of Songs. This meant that the lights on the building still worked properly and stayed on long after they failed in the rest of the slums. Only the Neon Alley, the Night Market, and a few other places managed to keep their lights on. It made the building stand out like a sore thumb among the darkness of the rest of the slums.

    During Axion''s patrols, she sometimes visited the tower, stopping by to listen to a performance or two. She liked how lively the place was. It was one of the few spots in the slums that never lost its color or cheer. It always had something new happening, be it a show, a band, or an artist painting a mural.

    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    There was always something going on.

    Axion leaned against the rusty metal bench, watching the performers on the balconies and the ground floor. Music wafted through the air, creating a soothing backdrop to the din of the slums.

    She blinked as she spotted something new on one of the walls by the courtyard. She squinted at the sight, trying to figure out what she was looking at.

    From a distance, she could see several people climbing the building''s outer walls, their grips secured onto colorful hand and footholds embedded into the concrete.

    Axion stood up and approached the base of the wall, craning her neck upwards. Up close, she could see that the wall was covered in various grip-textured surfaces: ridges, grooves, and knobs designed to provide purchase for climbers.

    She spotted a small crowd of onlookers gathering near the bottom, pointing and exclaiming as they watched the climbers scale the wall. Axion pushed through the throng of spectators, standing near the front to get a better view.

    "Hey! It''s Axion!" someone exclaimed. Several heads turned, staring at her in awe.

    She waved awkwardly and nodded towards the wall. "Uh, hi. So...what''s going on?"

    "Oh, you haven''t heard? They built a climbing wall there," a girl replied enthusiastically. "I''ve seen people climb up and down before, but today, they''re competing! I don''t know who''s leading or what they''re competing for, but it sure is exciting to watch!"

    "Yeah," one of the men chimed in. "You should go check it out sometime. You won''t believe how hard those guys can pull. I''m not much of a climber myself, but I bet you''ll get the hang of it quickly since you''re a Super."

    "Really?" Axion''s LED eyes widened, glancing back at the wall. "Is it...fun?"

    "Oh, for sure! Climbing can be a real workout. And a good way to clear your mind too." The man smiled at her. "All you gotta do is grab ahold of the wall and start moving. Trust me, once you get going, you''ll get addicted!" He nodded towards the competition. "Want to have a go yourself?"

    Axion tilted her head thoughtfully before shrugging. "I mean, I guess? Sure, why not? It sounds interesting."

    The man laughed. "Trust me, you''ll love it!" He pointed up at the wall. "They''ve got harnesses you can borrow for safety, so you won''t have to worry about falling. You can even fall on purpose to get back to the bottom quickly, hah."

    "Oh, it''s okay. I won''t need them. I have my powers." She tapped her helmet for emphasis.

    The man scratched his cheek, seeming a little unsure. "Alright, suit yourself. If you change your mind, just ask those guys for a spare harness."

    "Okay, thank you!" She flashed him a thumbs-up, then strode over to the wall and stood underneath the overhanging ledge. The nearest person was only halfway up. Looking up, she eyed the distance. From a glance, the climbing seemed straightforward enough, with lots of jutting holds to grasp.

    <Do you want me to display the best route for you?> Edith asked suddenly.

    "Nah, I''ll figure it out as I go. I''m gonna do this by myself."

    <Alright. Good luck.>

    "Thanks."

    She didn''t want to use her powers for her first climb. Just being a metahuman should give her enough advantage to get her to the top. If she slipped and fell, then she''d just use her power to safely land.

    Taking a deep breath, she launched herself into the air, reaching for the highest handhold she could reach. She grabbed hold of a bumpy protrusion with both hands and heaved herself upwards. Pulling her other arm up, she wedged her fingers into another hold and started hoisting herself upwards.

    As she ascended, she found herself relaxing into the process of searching for hand and footholds, adjusting her grip, and finding the next spot to latch onto. Her body instinctively swayed with the wall''s texture, seeking out the most secure places to rest her limbs.

    Before long, she was so absorbed in her task that she almost forgot about the crowd of spectators below, cheering and egging her on. She paused for a moment, glancing down, and noticed a group of guys gawking at her. They were clustered near the base of the wall, eyes practically bulging out of their skulls.

    What are they staring at?¡ªOh!...oh...

    Axion shifted uncomfortably, suddenly aware of the position she was in: bent over, legs apart, butt wiggling as she struggled to keep her balance on the wall. Her bodysuit hugged her curves and left little to the imagination.

    Awkwardly, she adjusted her posture, flattening herself against the wall with her legs splayed and chest pressing against the rough texture.

    The crowd started hollering louder, whooping and whistling. A few even made suggestive catcalls, and someone called out, "Yeah, baby! You got it!"

    Don''t look at them. Focus on the wall.

    She refocused her attention on the texturing, scanning for the best holds to latch onto. Slowly but surely, she found her groove, falling into the pattern of handhold-foothold-repeat, ignoring the lecherous comments from the peanut gallery. Before she knew it, she was almost at the top of the climbable portion of the wall.

    Without her power, she felt the pull of gravity more acutely than usual. Her fingers burned, aching from their continuous pressure against the rocks, and the rest of her body felt stiff from constantly holding itself in a strange contortion.

    The feeling of ''down'' tugged at her, tempting her to drop. She had only felt a similar feeling when she released her gravity field at the apex of her jumps, but this sensation was stronger, almost overwhelming. But she ignored the urge to use her power, forcing herself to focus on the physicality of the climb.

    Almost there, you can do this. Almost¡ªThere!

    As Axion reached for the final handhold, her fingertips brushed against the smooth material, unable to gain any purchase. She tried to wedge her nails into the crack, but they couldn''t find a good grip. She shifted her weight, attempting to adjust her stance, but her other foot had no support either.

    Suddenly, she felt her foothold dislodge, and her body tipped dangerously. With a cry, she scrambled desperately, her fingernails scraping uselessly against the concrete. Her foot flailed, searching for a hold, but there was nothing. She was slipping, falling¡ª

    Just as she was about to drop, she activated her gravikinesis, intending to lighten her weight to float gently to the ground.

    Instead, her mind honed in on her practice with her Gravity Slide, and her feet connected with the wall, sliding downwards as her body instinctively angled towards the surface.

    She yelped in surprise, her arms waving frantically as she tried to regain her balance.

    ''Down'' started to tug at her again...but her feet also experienced ''down'' in a different direction¡ªtowards the wall.

    Two downs?! I''d rather stick to the down where my feet are!

    Halfway down, her feet stuck to the wall.

    Axion let out a soft gasp as she realized she had somehow switched her orientation. Her ''feet'' were now firmly attached to the vertical wall, while her ''head'' faced the ground.

    The ''down'' she experienced ahead of her faded. Instead, she felt a ''down'' towards the building underneath her feet.

    What the...How does this even...?

    She looked behind her and saw the top of the Tower, and beyond that, the sky. In front of her, the crowd stared in shocked silence. She looked down at her feet and raised one tentatively from the wall.

    Slowly, she eased it forward, testing her new orientation. To her astonishment, she stayed firmly attached to the wall, like an insect to a sticky surface. The feeling of ''down'' was now towards the building instead of the actual ground.

    She took off her jacket and let it go. It fell to the wall, sticking to it just as she had done.

    "Woah..." she muttered, her helmet''s LED eyes widening.

    Edith''s voice buzzed in her ear. <Did you just...>

 Chapter 38: Partner?

    Axion slipped through the shadows of the alley, glancing around to make sure no one was following her as she made her way to the Vigil. As she stepped through the door, her gaze swept over the dim interior, taking in the dusty shelves and cluttered tables.

    "Virgil?" Axion called out tentatively.

    No answer.

    Wonder if he''s out today?

    She checked both floors of the building but found it empty. He wasn''t in his office or down in the basement either. Figuring he''d turn up soon enough, she headed to the training area behind the building.

    As she approached, she caught sight of Virgil standing near the target dummies. Before she could call out to him, she noticed someone else beside him.

    A familiar face. Quinn?! Why''s he here?!

    Axion hid around the corner, keeping quiet as she watched them.

    Virgil said something to Quinn and motioned towards one of the dummies. Quinn nodded and faced the wooden construct. After a deep breath, he charged forward, lowering his shoulder as he barreled toward it. At the last minute, he changed direction, pivoting around the dummy and slamming his elbow into its back. The impact caused the dummy to tip slightly, its base shifting across the ground. Quinn used his momentum to slam his other fist into its side, toppling the target over and smashing its head. He let out a triumphant cry, pumping his fists in victory.

    "Not bad," Virgil praised, clapping his hands together. "Little rough around the edges, but we can work on that. Next, let''s move on to practicing the proper technique for a grapple."

    What''s going on? Why is Quinn with Virgil? Does this have something to do with...

    "Stop lurking and get your ass over here, girl." Virgil waved her over without even bothering to look back. "I know you''ve been watching. Come on. Get over here, pronto."

    Axion jumped and peered around the corner. She hadn''t expected him to notice her presence so easily. Crap. There''s no choice but to approach now. Reluctantly, she emerged from the shadows and joined the two men.

    "Ah, there she is," Virgil greeted, offering a wry smile. "Perfect timing. We were just going over some things."

    Quinn turned towards her and immediately stiffened. He cleared his throat and nodded. "Hey, uh, nice to see you again."

    "Um, hey...you, too." Axion muttered awkwardly, feeling increasingly uncomfortable. She glanced between the two of them, hoping someone would speak up and explain.

    Virgil didn''t keep her waiting long. He straightened, folding his arms as he began. "So, you''re probably wondering what''s going on here, hm? I''ll get right to the point. Thanks to your little stunt a couple of weeks ago, Quinn here has discovered your secret identity." He paused as he gauged her reaction. "If you''ve got any semblance of a brain, it doesn''t take much to put two and two together."

    "W-wait, so..." Axion stuttered, taken aback. "He knows?"

    Quinn nodded and offered a weak smile. "Uh...yeah. Sorry, Fii."

    Fuuuuck.

    Her shoulders slumped. "D-did you tell anyone else?"

    "Nope. Didn''t breathe a word. I promised you, remember?" Quinn answered hastily. "Still keeping my word."

    Okay, so that''s a small relief, at least.

    She sighed heavily as she clutched her head in dismay. "But wait...why are you here now?" Axion jerked her chin toward Virgil. "Did he force you into anything? Are you okay?"

    "Actually, he invited me," Quinn interjected. He hesitated before continuing. "I was kinda scared at first, but after a talk with Virgil, I agreed to keep the secret. And...I''m going to help you guys."

    Help...us? As in, he''s going to help the Vigil?

    "You serious?" Axion asked. "You wanna work with us?"

    Quinn nodded. "Yeah, I''m not afraid of getting my hands dirty, and this''ll be a great opportunity for me. Plus, Virgil thinks I''ve got potential, which I''m not convinced about myself. So...what do you think?"

    Axion glanced at Virgil, who nodded once.

    He must''ve already filled Quinn in. Well, if Virgil approved, and if Quinn agreed...then there shouldn''t be a problem. Right? Besides, Quinn was a pretty reliable guy¡ªa lot more reliable than her if she didn''t have any powers.

    Still, he didn''t deserve to get dragged into this, but she also couldn''t deny having him around would make things a bit easier. And less lonely. Plus, if he was going to join the Vigil, that meant they''d be spending more time together...like...now, for example.

    "You sure about this, Quinn? It''s not going to be safe. You might end up getting hurt. Or worse." Axion warned. "I don''t want you to get involved if you don''t want to."

    "Hey, don''t worry about me. I''m a tough guy, you know?" Quinn interrupted, cracking his knuckles. "I can handle a few punks, believe me. I ain''t gonna be a burden. In fact, I''m excited about this. Really. So...don''t sweat it." He grinned cheekily.

    Axion frowned and crossed her arms, unconvinced by his bravado. "Hmm, okay...well, as long as you''re sure about this."

    Virgil cleared his throat loudly. "Now that we''ve cleared the air, there''s a few more rules to go over. First off, no using your real names during patrols or operations. Got it? Use your code names instead. Fii, you''re Axion. Quinn, you''re...hm..." He scratched his chin thoughtfully as he searched for an appropriate nickname. "I''ll let you figure it out yourself."

    "Gotcha," Quinn agreed.

    "Second, don''t waltz in here whenever you please. No one can find out that the Vigil is active, especially the gangs. Under no circumstances are you allowed to bring strangers inside unless I''m here to approve it. This goes double for you, Fii. Remember, we''re on the down-low. Any funny business, and you''ll both get your asses handed to ya. And not in a fun way."

    Axion nodded silently, acknowledging the order. She noticed Quinn nodding as well.

    "Lastly, no fooling around during patrols. Stick to business and only business." Virgil pointed a stern finger at both of them. "No chit-chat, no jokes, and certainly no fraternizing while on duty. If I catch you flirting or screwing around, I''ll personally beat the both of y''all until your eyes bleed. Got that?"

    Both nodded vigorously, shooting glances at each other.

    "Good. With that settled, we''re done for today. Dismissed." Virgil dismissed the pair, waving them away as he walked back toward the main building.

    As he disappeared into the shadows, Axion took a breath and exhaled slowly. She turned to face Quinn and fidgeted nervously, unsure of what to say.

    "Um, so...guess we''re partners now, huh?" Axion managed to stammer out.

    "Seems so, yeah," Quinn replied casually. "Doesn''t sound so bad if you ask me." He smiled reassuringly before shrugging. "Look, I don''t expect you to trust me immediately, but I''m grateful you''re giving me the chance. And, hey, thanks for saving me earlier. Otherwise, we wouldn''t even be in this situation, would we?" He chuckled lightly.

    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    "True, yeah," Axion replied, returning the laugh. "I just hope things won''t be awkward between us."

    "No worries, nothing''s going to change, not on my end anyway. I''ll still treat you like a friend, even though I''ll be calling you ''Axion'' instead of ''Fii'' when you''re wearing the suit. Sounds a bit formal, to be honest." He tilted his head curiously. "Can I ask, does your family know about all of this?"

    "Oh, uh, I don''t have any family anymore, so no." Axion answered quietly, dropping her gaze to the ground. "I live alone."

    "I see. Same as me then," Quinn murmured softly. He gazed off into space pensively, then returned his attention to her. "Well, as long as we''ve got each other''s backs, I think we''ll do just fine. Let''s give it our all, hm?" He held out his hand toward her.

    Axion stared at his outstretched palm for a moment. She took hold of it firmly and gave a firm shake. "Sure, I''m in."

    "Great." Quinn flashed another crooked grin before turning to leave. "Guess I''ll see you around, partner."

    With a wave goodbye, he ambled off in the direction of his workshop.

    Once he was gone, Axion heaved a heavy sigh and leaned against the wall.

    The only plan she had this evening was to show off her new abilities to Virgil. Yet somehow, she ended up with a new teammate. And not just anybody, either. Quinn.

    Wonder how Edith''s going to react.

    <hr>

    Edith tapped her finger on her desk as she glared at Virgil sitting across from her, eating a sandwich. He took his sweet time savoring every bite while she stewed in silence, seething with anger. The infuriating man refused to meet her gaze, focusing on the food in his mouth instead. She clenched her hands tightly and resisted the urge to throttle him.

    Eventually, Edith cracked, unable to contain her frustration. "For God''s sake, Virgil, can you stop stuffing your face with that damn sandwich and pay attention?!" She growled. "This is serious! Do you even understand what you''ve done? How many potential issues you created?! Do you know how irresponsible this is?!"

    Virgil swallowed and wiped his mouth clean with his sleeve. He crumpled the paper wrapper into a ball before tossing it aside carelessly. He took his time leaning back into his chair, crossing his legs comfortably. He finally directed his gaze toward her and arched an eyebrow, amusement dancing across his features.

    "Problems? Nonsense, Edith. Everything''s under control. Don''t worry so much. It''s unbecoming of a lady such as yourself."

    "This isn''t a joke! That guy could cause serious problems!" Edith retorted hotly, slapping her hands on the table. "You''ve introduced another variable to the equation, and I don''t like this. This is reckless and impulsive and unnecessary. What were you thinking? How could you possibly justify this?"

    "Would you have preferred that I killed him as I did with the Gully Rats that also saw Fii that day?"

    "Well, no, but¡ª" She faltered. "Still! This wasn''t called for."

    "I disagree. He could prove useful to Fii. Also, the boy''s smart; you should give him a chance. He''s got potential. We could use someone like him on our side. I don''t know why you''re getting so worked up over nothing."

    "It''s not nothing, Virgil," Edith fumed, rising to her feet. She leaned forward, staring daggers at the infuriating man before her. "Everything is NOT peachy keen and sunshine and daisies, thank you very much! How many times do I have to say it?! This was stupid, foolish, dangerous, and¡ªand idiotic!"

    Virgil scoffed dismissively and rolled his eyes. "Oh, come off it, woman. Unlike you, I know how to read people, and I can tell that boy won''t go babbling about her identity. Not intentionally, anyway. I assessed his character thoroughly before deciding to recruit him. Stop being paranoid."

    "Paranoid? I''m not being paranoid!" She scowled at him before adding in a haughty tone. "And I don''t like the way you just referred to me. I''m a scientist¡ªnot woman, sweetheart, dear, or whatever other nonsense term you deign to call me. You''d do well to remember that!"

    "Fine. How''s ''sugar tits'' or ''lady bits'' sound, hm? Is that better?" He quipped smugly.

    "God, I hate you so much sometimes." Edith hissed under her breath, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation. "Why are you so difficult? Just tell me why you decided to drag in some random kid off the street."

    "Firstly, I didn''t ''Drag'' him in; I simply suggested a way to solve an existing problem. Second, Fii''s secret was bound to be exposed at some point, whether through her carelessness or someone else''s. Best we prepare for that inevitability. Third, like I said earlier, the boy''s a smart cookie. A tad uneducated and rustic, but he possesses the knowledge needed to help us with certain matters. You need to get it through that head of yours that Fii can''t do everything by herself, even if you''re there feeding her instructions through her helmet." He smirked knowingly. "Isn''t that right, Doctor Edith?"

    Edith gnashed her teeth, grinding them together angrily. "Oh, piss off," she mumbled, sinking into her seat, defeated. She hated losing arguments against Virgil. Mostly because he often made valid points, which were annoyingly right, but also because he delighted in pointing out her shortcomings and flaws.

    Arrogant bastard.

    She clicked her tongue irritably and crossed her arms. "Fine, fine. Do whatever you want. But I swear, if this screws anything up, I''m going to blame you. So don''t complain to me if this goes badly, alright?"

    "Relax, Doc, I''ve got this covered. Trust me. And if anything happens, I''ll take full responsibility," he reassured, raising both hands placatingly. "Now, then...if you''re finished bellyaching, there''s another reason why I asked for this meeting. Care to listen?"

    She eyed him warily but remained silent, waiting for him to continue.

    Virgil reached into his coat pocket and retrieved a folded piece of paper. He unfolded it and slid it across the table toward her. "I haven''t been completely truthful with you about the time when I said that I''ve dealt with the supplier of the Shiver drug. He got away."

    "What?!" Edith snatched the document off the table and scanned its contents, her eyes widening as she read the information written on the page. "The Mad Chemist?..."

    "The very same one," he confirmed with a nod. "Salvatore, or rather a proxy of his, gave that drug to the Neon Vipers in exchange for the supply of venom that I handed to you that time. You still got it?"

    "Yes, I stored it at the lab." She murmured distractedly, turning her attention back to the report. "Wait...hang on..." she muttered under her breath, her brow furrowing. "Why''d you wait until now to tell me about this?"

    Virgil shrugged nonchalantly. "Wanted to confirm some things before talking about it. I thought it was just a one-time thing, but I''ve caught wind of a few whispers of late that suggest otherwise."

    He rested his chin on top of steepled fingers, tapping them together rhythmically. "Salvatore''s main product is illegal bio-engineering. You''ve probably heard about those super soldiers that private corporations and even the military secretly use, right?"

    Edith nodded. "You''re talking about Adrenomancers."

    Of course, she''d heard of them. It wasn''t common knowledge, but every geneticist and biochemist had at least a vague understanding of what the super soldier process involved.

    Salvatore specialized in producing these kinds of individuals¡ªAdrenomancers, as they''d come to be known¡ªthrough highly complex chemical treatments combined with extensive physical training. They were genetically engineered soldiers capable of enhancing their physical attributes by utilizing specialized drugs injected into their bloodstream. These drugs enabled them to achieve greater speeds, strength, and endurance than any normal human being.

    These drugs also came with the added drawback of shortening their lifespan drastically; most Adrenomancers lasted around five years at the most before expiring. Only Salvatore could produce these drugs, and he was notoriously secretive about its formula. Any attempts to replicate its production resulted in failure, regardless of method. Because of this, his work was infamous throughout the underworld.

    If Salvatore was involved, it was most likely connected to illicit dealings. The question was, why did he have contact with the gangs in the slums? What was his goal?

    "I''m pretty sure that the venom samples that he wanted from the Neon Vipers were specifically meant to be used in his next batch of Adrenomancer drugs. Not sure where the other gangs come in yet, but I suspect they''ll play a key role in this as well."

    He leaned back, tilting his chair onto two legs. "Judging from what I''ve observed, I can deduce three possibilities for why Salvatore''s poking around the slums: number one, he''s working with the gangs to distribute the drug Shiver to increase awareness and demand for the Adrenomancers that he creates; number two, he needs something specific from the slums and he''s working with the gangs to obtain it; or third, he''s planning a major operation here soon, and the gangs will provide assistance."

    "What does Shiver have to do with Adrenomancers? I''ve checked. It''s just another opioid. Granted, it''s an unusually potent one, and it causes aggressive behavior and high levels of euphoria, but it''s not a performance-enhancing drug."

    Virgil tapped his nose knowingly. "Right. I think Shiver is intended to be a sort of...primer. An appetizer. Its symptoms are the same as the early stages of Adrenomancer enhancement."

    Edith narrowed her eyes. "Wait, hang on, you''re saying Salvatore is distributing drugs like Shiver to test the waters and what? Find test-subjects to turn into Adrenomancers?"

    "Makes sense, don''t you think? Think about it: addicts will do anything to get their hands on more of the drug. He spreads the addiction first, then uses those who are already addicted to become his test subjects. Those that don''t get killed from their violent behavior or die from overdose would likely make decent candidates for conversion into Adrenomancers, right?"

    Edith considered the implications carefully. It didn''t sound too farfetched. If the Mad Chemist Salvatore truly was using the slums as a testing ground, that would explain why he chose to interact with the local gangs.

    "Hmm, I suppose that theory is plausible. But that''s a risky way to find subjects, isn''t it? Couldn''t he just go to some prisons or hospitals and...oh...uh, wait...forget I said that." She coughed nervously and averted her gaze.

    Virgil rolled his eyes. "I''m not the expert here. You are. But I reckon this is his strategy. Problem is, I don''t know the exact details of his plan. My gut says he''s got something else cooking, and he''s gathering the ingredients now. Which means we gotta nip this in the bud as soon as possible, or else the slums are in for a world of hurt."

    Edith rubbed her temples wearily as she contemplated the matter further. "I suppose the first step would be figuring out how deep he''s been manipulating things. Have you found anything else?"

    "Actually, yes, as luck would have it."

 Chapter 39: Viperéˆ¥æªš Nest

    The Neon Viper hideout was dimly lit, with flickering bulbs casting eerie shadows across the walls. The room was sparsely furnished, with a worn-out couch, a couple of old tables, and a makeshift bar along one wall.

    ''Cobra'' Kasumi reclined on the couch, her leg propped up on a table. She gazed listlessly out the window, her eyes fixed on the neon lights that flashed outside. She had spent the past few weeks recuperating from her injuries, confined to the couch as she tried to regain her strength.

    Her fight against that fucking bitch Super had been a brutal one, and she had barely escaped with her life. She grimaced as she flexed her injured fingers, the wounds still healing. Her nanowires had been rendered useless, their filaments severed and frayed. She had salvaged what she could, but the damage was extensive, and she had no way of repairing them.

    With a sigh, she shifted in her seat, wincing as a stab of pain shot through her leg.

    Kasumi could have won that fight if she hadn''t fooled around and underestimated the Super. She''d gotten careless when she shouldn''t have. Now she was paying the price for it. But she couldn''t admit her failure to her henchmen. They expected her to be strong. They looked up to her as their leader.

    She shouldn''t have lost the Shiver. It was a major blow to her reputation and power within the slums. She had also lost over a third of her men during that raid, and most of them had either defected to rival gangs or were too terrified to show their faces around her anymore. Her operations were crippled, her territory reduced to a fraction of its former size.

    The Neon Knights under ''Dazzle'' Darby were emerging as the top dogs, taking over more and more of the Neon Night Market and pushing the Neon Vipers into a precarious position. Even now, she could hear the muffled voices of her remaining subordinates as they planned their counterattack.

    Despite her best efforts, Kasumi had lost control of the situation, and the prospect of losing more men due to some pissing match over the market made her sick. What once was hers now slipped away, bit by bit, day after day. Like sand through her fingers. She hated being a spectator, watching everything unfold while she was laid up on the couch, helpless and dependent on others to protect what she had built from nothing. She hated not being in control.

    Still, she couldn''t do anything about it. Not in her current state. With a scowl, she reached for a glass of brandy sitting on the table. She poured the contents into a glass, then tipped the bottle into her mouth, downing the burning liquid in one go. She threw the empty bottle aside and let out a frustrated growl. "Fuck."

    Vaughn''s footsteps echoed through the hideout as he entered the room, his eyes widening slightly at the sight of Kasumi on the couch. He cleared his throat and spoke, "Um, hey. Boss. The Mad Chemist wants to have a word with you." He gestured to the laptop resting on the table beside the couch. "He''s waiting on a call."

    Kasumi let out a sigh of frustration, then grabbed the device and flipped the screen open. "Fucking figures." She pressed the power button, and the screen lit up, revealing the familiar mask of the Mad Chemist staring back at her. "Hey, doc," she grunted. "Been a while. Haven''t seen you since that stupid meeting. Why the sudden call?"

    "Greetings, Kasumi." The chemist''s distorted voice echoed through the room. "I am calling to offer my condolences. I heard you suffered quite a humiliating defeat at the hands of Axion, and that you lost the Shiver that I traded you. Quite the shame, indeed. So much potential, so much promise...gone in a flash. Pity."

    Kasumi frowned, clenching her fist. "Doc, get to the point. I''m in no mood for bullshit right now. You''re not the first person to rub salt into the wound, and I doubt you''ll be the last."

    "Of course. My apologies." The masked figure shrugged. "As you may have guessed, I have a business proposition for you, something to help ease your mind during these troubled times." He spread his gloved hands. "I will provide you with another supply of Shiver and the formula to replicate the drug. In return, I simply need your assistance in securing a facility to set up the production line."

    Kasumi arched an eyebrow. "Huh. A production line? Here in the slums? Are you nuts? You''d be better off setting up shop in the metropolis."

    The Mad Chemist chuckled, waving dismissively. "Nonsense. The metropolis is too dangerous a place for such an endeavor. The risk of being discovered is too great and there are far more superheroes lurking about. The slums, however, offer a degree of freedom and flexibility not available elsewhere. It has its own unique culture, its own rules¡ªthe perfect place for someone like me to do business. Also, I trust you. You know how the criminal underworld works."

    She quirked an eyebrow.

    Although she''d worked with him a few times before, she still had her reservations about the man. He wasn''t exactly known for forging alliances. Typically, the Mad Chemist operated alone, conducting his schemes from the shadows while reaping the benefits. She wondered what had changed to make him want to partner up. Was he aware of how dire her circumstances had become?

    "What''s in it for you, doc? How do I know you''re not trying to screw me over?" Kasumi scoffed. "You expect me to believe that the infamous Mad Chemist needs someone like me to take such a big risk with no guarantee of a payoff?" She jabbed her finger at the laptop. "Why would I want to put myself in debt to you?"

    "Kasumi, please, do not misunderstand," he replied calmly. "This is an investment. We both stand to benefit from this arrangement. I trust you to carry out the task because I know you are capable of handling this, and more importantly, that you are driven by your desire to gain an advantage over the Neon Knights and expand your influence. So, what do you say?"

    He clasped his hands together, tilting his head in a questioning manner. "Will you accept my generous offer, or are you content with languishing on your couch, drinking and wallowing in self-pity, as your rivals take over your turf?" He leaned closer, the black slits of his mask gleaming in the light. "If not, then you may as well start packing your bags and crawling back to your family in disgrace. Unless, of course, you prefer that I contact the Crimson Shadows to assist you."

    She scowled, her jaw clenched as she listened to his taunting words. "Fine. Fuck you. Tell me what you need." She''d rather die than beg her brother for help. Having to rely on him to fix her problems would mean she''d never escape his shadow. Her pride wouldn''t allow it. She''d rather rot in a ditch than go to him. Besides, she knew the Crimson Shadows had no interest in the slums.

    "Excellent! I have already located a suitable location for the facility. All I require from you is assistance in acquiring the necessary supplies and equipment as well as serving as security for the operation."

    "How long will it take to set up?" she inquired.

    "About two months. By my estimates, I can have the first batch ready within three months." He paused for a moment, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "Yes, I think that''s the most realistic timetable we can work with. Oh, and also..." He snapped his fingers, gesturing to the space beside the laptop. "I need you to do one more thing for me. Vaughn?"

    "Yeah?" Vaughn asked, stepping forward. "What do you want now?"

    "Oh, Vaughn. There you are. Yes, I have a little side job for you." He gave a slight nod. "The delivery of Kasumi''s nanowire upgrades should be arriving in the Neon Night Market very soon. Make sure you secure those packages before any scavengers or looters can get their hands on them. I put a lot of time and effort into acquiring them, and I do not intend for them to fall into the wrong hands. Understood?"

    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    Vaughn smirked. "Yeah, I can do that. No problem. If anyone dares to try, they''ll get a taste of my blades."

    Kasumi shot the scientist a sidelong glance, frowning. "Hey, don''t volunteer my guy for anything, alright? I''m the one he takes orders from, not you."

    The Mad Chemist shrugged, ignoring her comments. "Of course. Now, as soon as you recover, Kasumi, let us commence preparations. I am eager to begin production immediately. Oh, and please do try to stay alive. Your services are going to be required for the foreseeable future."

    "Just so you know, I''m doing this for the profit. Nothing more." She folded her arms across her chest, scowling at the image of the mad scientist. "Don''t get the wrong idea. This doesn''t change anything between us. This is strictly business, got it? Don''t try and pull any shit, or you''ll regret it. Got it?"

    "Believe me, Kasumi, your aid is crucial." The Mad Chemist''s tone took on an earnest note. "I assure you, my motives are sincere. I will share the profits with you fifty-fifty, and you may even learn a thing or two from me as well. Besides, I suspect you could use the funds and resources right about now." His laugh echoed through the room. "We both know how dangerous Axion is. Better to keep your enemies close, don''t you agree?"

    She bit her lip and scowled, glaring at the grinning mask on the screen. "You think I''m afraid of that Super bitch?" she snapped.

    "Perhaps not, but you must concede that she has proven to be a threat." The Mad Chemist tilted his head to the side. "But speaking of Axion...what can you tell me about her power?"

    That question had been nagging at the back of her mind ever since the fight. There were no obvious signs of that bitch using any powers until that last moment when she somehow maneuvered through Kasumi''s net of wires mid-air, smashed the floor underneath them, and then landed that attack as they both fell.

    At that moment, Axion seemed faster and stronger than most metahumans outside of the Ultimate Guardians. Still, Kasumi didn''t witness anything else special beyond that.

    "I can''t tell you much. She''s fast and strong at certain moments, but not anything abnormal. I can''t tell you what her power is. It''s hard to pinpoint."

    Vaughn, who was still standing beside the couch, suddenly spoke. "When I fought her, I thought the same thing. But something weird happened when she got right next to me. Suddenly, I felt like I weighed a ton and I collapsed. She didn''t even touch me, but she was clearly affecting my body somehow. Couldn''t move a muscle. She knocked me out right afterward."

    Kasumi raised an eyebrow at Vaughn.

    This was news to her. Was there a reason why that bitch didn''t use that against her during their fight? Or was she holding back for some reason? The latter explanation seemed unlikely.

    The Mad Chemist hummed thoughtfully. "Interesting. Very interesting. I have a lot of questions about her capabilities, as well as her origin. She''s not listed in the official files of any metahumans or superhero teams, which suggests she''s a metahuman who comes from a different region or one who was born in the slums."

    "A local, huh?" Kasumi snorted. "Figures. Some stupid bitch like that shouldn''t exist, much less pose a problem for people like us." She clenched her fists, a snarl escaping her lips. "I''ll tear her apart the next time we meet."

    "Perhaps." The Mad Chemist tapped a finger against his mask. "But as I said, I have questions about her that demand answers. So, I''ll be placing a bounty for her capture. The other gangs should have already been notified by now, and you should be receiving a transmission shortly. You''re welcome to join since you certainly have a score to settle with her. However, I want her captured alive and well."

    Kasumi remained silent.

    The memory of the Super''s power still haunted her. She remembered the thrill of fear and excitement when the girl dashed toward her. She recalled the pain of the impact when those booted feet collided with her abdomen. She still relived the excruciating sensation of crashing through the side of the van, over and over.

    No...that shit ain''t worth it. Not yet.

    "No, I''m not interested," she said. "Too much hassle and effort. I''ll stay focused on business."

    "Oh? Very well." The Mad Chemist didn''t seem particularly bothered by her decision. "The bounty will still be posted regardless. The offer is always open in case you change your mind." He gave a theatrical bow, the camera shaking slightly. "Very well. I shall discuss the details with Vaughn. Until we meet again, dear Cobra."

    The screen went black.

    Vaughn lowered his head, avoiding eye contact with Kasumi. "Sorry, boss. The Doc insisted on contacting you directly."

    She waved a hand. "It''s fine. Don''t worry about it. How are you holding up?" She squinted at his bandaged face and his busted-up left eye.

    Vaughn flinched slightly, his fingers reaching up to brush the swollen bruise around his left eye. He averted his gaze, a sheepish smile spreading across his battered face. "I, uh, well...the Super girl did a number on us. Buncha losses, some defections. Lotta crap going on. It''s been a little tense around here, you know, but, we''ll survive." He forced a laugh, attempting to lighten the mood.

    "Relax." Kasumi cracked a rare smile and beckoned with her hand. "C''mere. Sit."

    Vaughn stepped forward, moving closer to the couch, his eyebrows knitting together in confusion. "Huh?" His eyes flicked around the room nervously.

    "I said sit down. Let me look at it," she repeated. "There''s no reason to act tough in front of me. We''ve known each other since forever, remember?" She patted the seat cushion next to her.

    He stiffened his posture, his eyes widening slightly, before exhaling in a low voice, "Yes, ma''am." He knelt by the side of the couch, his shoulders slumping as he sank into the cushion. He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly and cast an uneasy glance at his leader.

    Kasumi shifted in her seat, the springs creaking as she turned to face him. She placed her hand on his forehead and inspected his black eye, her eyes roaming over the bruises and scrapes scattered across his face.

    "Um, boss...won''t your boyfriend get jealous if you''re touching guys like this?" Vaughn asked sheepishly.

    "Relax. He''s not the jealous type. Besides, it''s not like I''m here stroking your d¡ª"

    "Got it! You don''t have to say it like that. Shit..."

    "Hmm." She let out a thoughtful hum and poked his cheek, pressing her finger against the purple welt on his skin. He let out a yelp, wincing at the pain. "Yeah, that''s gonna take a while to heal." She removed her hand and pointed at the faded scar on his brow. "Remember that one? From when I beat the hell outta ya?" She let out an amused chuckle.

    Vaughn coughed. "Uh, yeah. Yeah, I do. That was, um, a long time ago." His lips twitched upward into a crooked grin. "Good times..."

    "Really?" She quirked an eyebrow and grinned wryly. "The time I nearly killed you counts as a good memory for you?"

    "I mean..." He shrugged noncommittally, laughing nervously as he struggled to come up with a response. "I, er...guess so, yeah?" His voice trailed off, uncertain.

    She chuckled and leaned back, shaking her head in disbelief. "Seriously, man." She stretched her arms out behind her and yawned, letting out a soft groan. "Man, this sucks ass. Life was so much easier before getting thrown out here." Kasumi kicked the empty glass lying on the table, knocking it over. The shattered fragments tumbled over the floorboards.

    Vaughn picked up the broken pieces and tossed them aside. "Well, hey, it could always be worse, right?" He shrugged, wiping the moisture from his palms on his pants. "Besides, I reckon we''ll pull through, just like we always have."

    "If you say so." Kasumi crossed her arms over her chest, her lips curving into a sardonic half-smile. "Either way, we''re not in a good situation. The gang''s a mess. Our numbers aren''t enough to hold any decent turf, but they''re strong enough that other gangs won''t try anything, so at least we''ve got that going for us."

    Vaughn snorted softly in amusement. "Well, you know what they say, survival of the fittest." He shook his head, his expression growing somber. "Some of the guys were talking about finding more recruits. Should be easy to find a bunch of greenhorns around, right?"

    Kasumi scowled, her fingers tracing absentminded patterns on the fabric of her leather pants. "Don''t bother. They''ll just get killed. Best to work with what we have right now. Besides, too many new people will lead to more problems. Can''t afford to keep an eye on everyone. Remember last time? I''d rather avoid dealing with that sort of drama again."

    Vaughn''s brows furrowed as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Mmm...that''s true, I guess." He rubbed his nose with his knuckle. "We just gotta wait for the news about the Shiver and hope things die down before starting any new operations."

    "Yep." Kasumi folded her hands behind her head, leaning back on the couch, her eyelids drooping lazily. "Anyways, I''m gonna get some sleep. Wake me up if anything happens."

    "Sure thing, boss." Vaughn nodded obediently. He rose to his feet, stretching his arms above his head as he walked towards the door. "G''night."

    Her eyes drifted closed, and she rested her head against the cushioned backrest. She pulled her knees to her chest, curling herself into a fetal position. The fabric rustled underneath her as she settled into a more comfortable position. A sigh escaped her lips as she tried to relax, ignoring the nagging worries plaguing her thoughts. Eventually, her breaths became steady and her muscles loosened up as she fell asleep.

 Chapter 40: The Chase is On

    Axion ducked and weaved, dodging a flurry of punches and kicks aimed in her direction. She threw herself forward, landing a solid uppercut to the gut of her attacker, causing him to stagger back. She spun, kicking her leg out, catching him in the side, and sending him sprawling to the ground.

    What the hell''s been going on in the past few days?! she thought, jumping over a bench that had been flipped on its side, narrowly avoiding another punch to her face. She grabbed her attacker by the collar and thrust her knee into his stomach.

    He doubled over, clutching his stomach, gasping for breath.

    Axion slammed her elbow into the side of his head, knocking him to the ground, unconscious.

    Another gang member lunged at her from behind, wrapping his arms around her waist and pinning her arms to her sides.

    "Goddamn it!" she hissed through gritted teeth.

    She increased the gravity affecting him, forcing him to his knees as she broke free from his grip. She lifted her boot, driving her heel into his groin, earning a pained cry from the man. She kneed him in the face, smashing his nose and sending blood gushing from his nostrils. The man clutched his crotch and collapsed to the ground.

    "Shit..." Axion muttered, panting heavily. She glanced around at the carnage she''d wrought. "What the hell is this all about?"

    Three more gang members rushed toward her from different directions and dove at her.

    She leaped, twisting her body through the air, narrowly missing one of them as she landed. She whirled, swinging her leg around, sweeping her foot under another''s legs and tripping him. As he fell, she brought her elbow down on his face, cracking his jaw.

    Axion swung her other leg around, kicking the third gang member in the face, splitting his lip. Blood spewed from his mouth as he reeled back, holding his hand to his nose.

    One gang member jumped on her back, clinging to her like a monkey, his arms wrapped around her throat.

    After lowering the gravity around him, Axion lifted him off her back, flipping him over her shoulder and slamming him to the ground. Before he could recover, she stomped her foot on his chest, pinning him in place as she raised her fist for a knockout blow.

    "Why do you fuckers keep attacking me all of a sudden?" she demanded.

    He flinched, trembling beneath her boot. "B-Because...there''s a reward..." He gasped for breath, his eyes darting between her and his companions who were writhing on the ground.

    Axion scowled and stepped harder on his chest, increasing the pressure. "A reward, huh? For what?"

    He sputtered and wheezed. "For capturing you...alive..." He choked out the words between labored breaths. "You''ve...got..."

    Two more rushed her from the side. One held a club while the other wielded a knife.

    She leaped sideways, evading the attack, and slammed her fist into the knife-wielder''s stomach. As he doubled over in pain, Axion spun, bringing her other arm around for a vicious chop to the back of his head, knocking him out cold. She whirled to face the final opponent. He froze, glancing between Axion and his incapacitated companion, dropping the club as he sprinted away screaming.

    Several others approached cautiously. These ones looked hesitant to engage her, standing at a distance with their weapons drawn.

    She huffed and crossed her arms, the LED eyes on her helmet narrowing. "Hey! It''s not like I want to beat the shit out of you assholes either, okay?!" she shouted. "As long as you don''t go after innocent people, I''ll leave you alone. But you keep harassing me and you better bet your asses that I''ll defend myself. Got it?"

    They watched her warily, exchanging glances with each other. Then half the idiots charged at her anyway, waving their batons and pipes wildly.

    "Come on, guys!" she groaned, exasperated.

    With a burst of speed, Axion dashed towards a graffiti-covered wall. She leaped, feet first, hitting the wall with a thud. Her gravity field pulled her against the surface, altering her body¡¯s relationship with the ground below. Now, the wall was her floor.

    She sprinted across the brick wall while the gang members gaped, their shouts of aggression turning into exclamations of disbelief. She glanced down from her vantage point and flipped them off before scaling the wall, leaping to the roof, and disappearing from their sight.

    <hr>

    Axion sprinted down the alley, her feet barely touching the ground. Behind her, the sound of engines revving filled the air, along with shouting voices. She glanced back to see a motley crew of thugs on mopeds and dirt bikes weaving through the debris-strewn streets, hot on her tail.

    "Seriously?!" she exclaimed. "When I wanted action, I didn''t think it''d be like this." She skidded around a corner, her boots skipping across the pavement. The wheels of her pursuers'' vehicles screeched as they swerved and braked, trying to follow her.

    The high-pitched whine of the motorcycle engines reverberated against the walls of the narrow alleys and decrepit buildings. Thick exhaust billowed from the mufflers, adding to the haze of dust and smoke hanging in the air.

    Without missing a beat, she focused inward, feeling the familiar surge of energy as she tapped into her gravity field. Instantly, she felt the familiar swirl of energy beneath her feet. She bent her knees slightly, imagining the gravity forming a slippery field around her. Suddenly, the ground beneath her felt different¡ªslicker, less resistant.

    She leaned forward and pushed off with her foot, initiating the slide. The soles of her shoes barely touched the asphalt as she zipped along the ground, her momentum carrying her swiftly past piles of rubble and rusted debris.

    Using her gravity around her palms as rudders to steer her trajectory, she maneuvered her way through the maze of shacks and shelters that lined the slums, using the thin structures as barriers to block off her pursuers. She slid under a tattered awning, sending strips of canvas flying into the air as she exited the other side.

    The bike riders weaved through the obstacles, their tires skidding against the pavement as they struggled to maintain their balance. Some crashed into each other, while others jumped over the wreckage and continued their pursuit.

    Axion accelerated, pushing her slide to its limits. She could feel the strain in her legs as she adjusted the gravitational field to her liking, ensuring that her feet would maintain the slick surface.

    She zipped around a corner, the mopeds skidding to keep up. Her eyes darted, searching for an escape route.

    A man pulling his cart loomed ahead, blocking her path. She ramped up the alley''s wall, using her gravitational field to orient herself as she launched into a graceful arc above the cart. She caught a glimpse of the man''s face, his eyes wide with shock as she flew past him.

    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    Landing back on the street, she banked hard left, almost running into a woman carrying a large basket. She veered away and slid to the right, her boots tapping rapidly as she moved from the wall to the ground.

    [TFSI: 0.53]

    She winced from the strain of using her power in a few different ways at once, especially when combined with the stress of making split-second decisions to avoid collisions.

    Pedestrians jumped out of her way, yelling angrily as she shot through the crowded thoroughfare.

    "Sorry! Sorry! Excuse me! Coming through!" she called out.

    Axion slid through a narrow passageway, barely wider than her shoulders.

    The mopeds struggled to follow, their handlebars scraping against the walls. Sparks flew, and several thugs fell from their bikes, crashing into the side of a building. A wheel went loose, bouncing along the road and toppling over a fruit cart. Fresh produce scattered everywhere, drawing additional angry cries from the surrounding vendors.

    The alley opened into a small square, littered with cardboard boxes and stray cats. Axion''s slide took her straight through, scattering felines in all directions.

    The remaining mopeds emerged from the narrow passageway, their engines roaring as they tore after her.

    Axion spotted a clothesline strung between two buildings. Perfect. She angled her body, using her hands as rudders to steer towards it. As she approached, she leaped, grabbing onto the line. Her momentum carried her forward, swinging her through an open window on the second floor of an old apartment building.

    She rolled as she landed, surrounded by surprised faces. An elderly couple sat frozen, their card game interrupted by her sudden entrance.

    "Sorry, grandma, gramps! I''m in a bit of a hurry, but I''m sure you two can catch up later. Keep on playing! Okay?" she blurted, waving apologetically to the pair as she made her way to the opposite window. Axion shoved the glass panes open and threw herself out, initiating her slide as soon as her feet touched the ground. The angry cries of the moped riders echoed as they rounded the corner, chasing after her.

    The chase seemed never-ending, but Axion managed to keep a safe distance ahead. She weaved between the dilapidated structures, moving further and further away from the crowded neighborhood.

    Something weird was going on. None of them were using any guns. Sure, word might have gotten around that she could deflect bullets, but she''d expected at least a few shots or pellets to come her way. Instead, they only chased her relentlessly like a pack of hunting dogs.

    Were they hoping to take her in alive? That guy earlier mentioned something about capturing her for a reward...but she hadn''t pissed off any of the big syndicates. At least, not yet.

    "Hey, uh, Edith? You there?" she asked over the comm-link, keeping her pace constant.

    <Of course.> Edith''s voice responded. <Are you still being chased?>

    "Yeah, I am. About that though, you wouldn''t happen to know if there''s some kinda bounty on my head, would you? These guys are being extra annoying today. Plus, I overheard someone mention something about a reward."

    Axion cut through an intersection, sliding under an abandoned vehicle before resuming her dash through the slums. "Not to mention," she continued. "These guys chasing me right now look like they''re ones from the Carnage Collective, and I''m sure I hadn''t crossed them, either."

    <I''m a geneticist, not a detective, Fii. I''ll let Virgil know, and he''ll investigate. In the meantime, you can either fight them off or lose them. Which, by the way, seems like the easiest task for you right now. Either way, if there is a bounty on you, it''s better to keep your patrols short and sporadic. You might have to lay low for a while until we figure out who''s behind this.>

    Fii sighed and hopped, gliding along a narrow railing that ran along the wall of a decrepit shack. "Okay, good idea. Thanks, Edith." She jumped off the rail, accelerating into a smooth slide that took her across an open courtyard and between the legs of a startled guy who''d been squatting beside a fire pit.

    "Uh, excuse me!" she yelled, banking to the left and heading down another alley.

    Edith was right. There was no point fighting them off if she didn''t need to. Although, the prospect of a real challenge was tempting, given how boring her last few fights had been.

    Axion shook her head.

    No. She was done giving these idiots the satisfaction of a fight, even if they''d spent the past hour chasing her. While it was still annoying, if this was the worst that would happen today, she could count herself lucky. At least this kept them occupied and out of trouble. Plus it gave her a workout in the process.

    "Axion! Hey!"

    She heard Quinn''s voice call from behind a building. She turned around to see him frantically beckoning her to enter a shanty. Without slowing down, she glanced around to make sure she wasn''t followed, then turned and entered the narrow gap between the lean-to and the adjacent building.

    The cramped space led to a small room, the area dimly illuminated by natural light shining through the gaps in the planks and metal sheets that made up the structure. At the center lay a table covered with tools and junk, with a rusty toolbox on one side and a pile of salvaged mechanical parts on the other. A ladder led to a second-floor hatch. Several thick ropes and cables hung from the ceiling, each with various items tied to them.

    Axion looked around, taking in the chaotic mess. "This your deck?"

    Quinn plopped down on the lone chair, brushing aside several pieces of scrap metal that had been cluttering the seat. "Yep. Not much, but home sweet home, right? Saw you being chased by a bunch of thugs and figured you might need a place to hide for a while. What''d you do to piss ''em off enough this time?"

    Axion leaned her shoulder against a support beam and stretched her legs, finally able to rest her exhausted muscles. She pulled her helmet off and set it on a shelf full of spare parts, breathing deeply and massaging her aching thighs. "I didn''t do anything to them today, but thanks for the save."

    She noticed the faint smell of something burning. Glancing at the bottom of her shoe, she saw a slight charring on the sole."Aww man. Maybe sliding around so much wasn''t the smartest idea." She frowned and stomped a few more scraps of burnt rubber off her shoes. "Damn it."

    "I still don''t really get how your power works," Quinn remarked, scratching his chin. "That gravity thingy or whatever."

    Fii shrugged. "Apparently it''s very complicated. I''m barely even a beginner at it myself. I just kind of do things, and sometimes I get stuff right. I still haven''t got the hang of it, but I''m getting better with practice."

    Quinn snickered. "Cool. Still impressive, though." He picked up a spanner, casually spinning the wrench in his hand. "So, what''s your plan after taking a breather? Just hiding out here till sunset, or you got somewhere else to be?"

    She smirked and ran her fingers through her hair, mussing the sweaty locks. "Edith told me to lay low for a while until they figure out who put a bounty on me. So, I''ll have to stop patrolling as much¡ªespecially during the day." She kicked at a screw lying on the floor before nudging the item closer to the pile with her shoe. "Looks like I''ll have a bunch of free time coming up."

    Quinn stopped twirling his tool and dropped it on the table. "Free time? Nice." He grinned, rummaging through his pocket to pull out a pair of metallic tags with etched letters, which he dangled in front of her. "Does that mean you''re up for going?"

    Fii''s eyes widened in recognition of the event tickets. "You got tickets for a concert? Who''s the band?" She leaned closer to inspect the metal tokens, taking in the scrawled lettering and intricate artwork embossed on them.

    "Shunkash¨±t¨­." Quinn wiggled the stubs. "Kenzo''s group."

    Fii covered her mouth to muffle her squeal of excitement. "No... No freakin'' way!" She gasped and reached for the tickets, but he moved them just out of her reach, grinning.

    "Big fan, eh? I remember you mentioning him. Managed to get these tickets as payment for helping fix up some of the lights on the stage. It''s nothing fancy, but I guess we could go to the show together." He shrugged. "If you''re not doing anything." He jerked the tickets away as Fii reached for them again.

    "Yes! Of course! Are you kidding me? I''d love to go with you!" she said enthusiastically, practically bouncing in place as she reached for them a third time, her hand darting quickly to grab the prize.

    "Haha. Alright. Cool. That settles it then." He handed Fii one of the tickets before putting his own back in his pocket. "We''ll head there tomorrow night. We can meet up at Rao''s shop first, then get some Grub''n''Guzzle before going to the venue."

    "Awesome," Fii gushed. She beamed, her smile practically glowing as she gripped the ticket tightly in her palm, unable to contain her delight.

    Kenzo was her favorite musician. His songs always spoke to her, as if the lyrics and the melody expressed exactly what she''d been thinking or feeling at that moment. Most of the time, she couldn''t afford the price to enter the Tower of Songs to hear him live, but every once in a while, he played for free outside the walls.

    This was one of those rare opportunities she didn''t want to miss.

    "Thanks, Quinn," she said gratefully. "Really appreciate this. You''re the best." She grinned widely, giving him a playful punch to the shoulder.

    Quinn smirked. "Don''t mention it. I''ve actually been wanting to check them out for a while, and this gives me an excuse to use those tickets." He shrugged and flashed another toothy grin. "Anyways, it''s a date then. Looking forward to it."

 Chapter 41: The Show

    Fii and Quinn stepped through the doors of the Tower of Songs, and a wave of sound and energy washed over them. Inside the cavernous lobby, a throng of people milled about, their chatter echoing off the walls. The place was packed, with only a few stragglers rushing inside to secure a spot in the auditorium.

    The walls and floors were painted with vibrant colors, each surface covered in murals, graffiti, and artwork. The light fixtures, old-fashioned gas lamps and retro neon signs, cast a warm glow throughout the lobby. In one corner, a bar served drinks to the attendees, while in another, a group of beatboxers laid down some rhythms, entertaining the crowd.

    Fii and Quinn pushed through the mass of people, working their way to the staircase leading to the auditorium. The crowd became more boisterous and energetic as they ascended, with everyone jostling and pushing to find a good spot.

    The roar of voices blended with the deep, pulsing bass emanating from the stage. The scent of sweat and spilled drinks wafted in the air, blending with the stench of over-perfumed bodies pressed together in tight spaces.

    As they squeezed their way through the throng, Fii couldn''t help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling inside of her. She knew the tickets Quinn got weren''t great ones, but she didn''t care. She was happy enough just being here and experiencing the atmosphere. The music. The vibe. The people. All of it. Everything about tonight sent a thrill racing through her veins.

    "You like the Tower?" Quinn leaned over and hollered at Fii over the noise, a big grin on his face. "There''s lots to do. Lots to see. Plenty of parties after each show. Those things can get pretty wild."

    "It''s awesome!" Fii shouted back, barely hearing herself over the din of the crowd. "I''ve been to a few shows before, but they''re usually in smaller places. Never been inside the auditorium here, though. Can''t wait to go inside!" She pumped her fist in the air, jumping a bit on the tips of her toes.

    Quinn laughed and gave her a quick pat on the back. "Great! Glad I got those tickets for us. Come on!" He grabbed her hand, pulling her close behind him through the crowd.

    They shuffled along, the line of people steadily moving forward. Occasionally, Quinn would stop to greet an acquaintance, exchanging brief hellos and goodbyes before continuing their trek.

    "Oi! Quinn! Fancy seeing you here, mate!" A loud voice rang out from Fii''s left. She turned to see a man clad in black leather pants with green fringes sticking out of his sleeves. "Got the tickets, yeah?" He grinned, displaying a full set of crooked teeth, stained yellow from cigarettes.

    "Yo, Walle. Yeah, got ''em right here." Quinn flashed his ticket, the embossed logo reflecting the neon lighting overhead.

    The man, Walle, let out a satisfied hum before gesturing towards Fii. "And who''s this lovely girlie you''ve brought with you? Hmm?" He gave her a curious once-over, his eyes raking up and down her form appreciatively. "Friend of yours?"

    Quinn smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Yep. This is Fii. Fii, this here''s my buddy, Walle. He''s also a big fan of Kenzo." He gestured between the two of them. "He''s usually too cheap to get tickets, but I helped him out and he hooked us up with a few drinks for tonight." He chuckled and motioned at the bottle clutched in Walle''s hand.

    "Nice to meetcha, Fii." Walle offered Fii his hand, and she accepted the shake. "How ''bout you and me get a drink after the show, hm? Have some fun together." He waggled his eyebrows suggestively. "You''re a good looker. Bet you taste real nice too, eh?" He grinned, the tip of his tongue darting out to lick his bottom lip.

    "Whoa! Back off, man. We came to see the show. Fii''s with me tonight." Quinn interjected, placing himself between her and Walle. "I can''t even believe you''d be dumb enough to hit on her while I''m standing right here. Not cool, man."

    Walle raised his hands in surrender. "Fine. Fine. Geez, Quinn. Can''t a bloke get a little friendly, huh? Besides, you already turned me down last time I hit on ya, so I figured I''d give Fii a try, is all. Anyways, here are your drinks. I''ll have to get mine before the show starts."

    He passed over a plastic cup filled with a dark liquid, handing a second one to Fii. She accepted hers carefully, being extra mindful to avoid the foamy rim.

    Walle winked at her before sauntering back towards the bar.

    "Ahh, don''t mind him." Quinn shook his head, watching his friend disappear into the crowd. "He''s a good guy, just a bit of a horndog sometimes."

    Fii nodded, sniffing her cup experimentally. "Yeah, I figured." She wrinkled her nose. "But the drink smells good, at least. Cheers." She held out her cup to Quinn, tapping her cup against his. They both drank, gulping the frothy beverage, letting the bitter fluid wash over their tongues.

    Fii shuddered involuntarily. "Wow. Strong. Very strong." She wiped her mouth on the back of her hand, her eyes watering slightly. "What''s in here?"

    Quinn shrugged. "I dunno. Whatever Walle managed to score." He took another sip. "It''s not bad, though. I''m glad we got some free drinks. Saves a bit of tink. Oh, hey! We''re almost there."

    As they reached the auditorium, Quinn fished out the tickets from his pocket, passing them to the doorman who checked the front and back before waving them inside.

    Inside, the space had been transformed into an open, multi-level dance floor. The stage itself remained largely bare, save for a few instruments, amplifiers, speakers, and cables scattered haphazardly around its surface. Above, bright, colored lights flashed, illuminating the air in shifting patterns.

    On the upper level, where the seating would normally be located, a number of private booths lined the perimeter. Each booth contained a small bar with several stools, tables, couches, and other furniture. Music blasted from speakers mounted on the ceiling, the heavy beats reverberating throughout the room.

    Railings ran along the edge of each level, creating a barrier to prevent patrons from falling off. VIP ticket holders lined the front row closest to the stage. Around them stood numerous attendants and security guards, making sure everyone remained orderly.

    The majority of the audience congregated below, dancing, swaying, and moshing to the music. Bodies pressed close together, people grinding against one another in a frenetic rhythm.

    "Let''s get as close as we can before the show starts!" Quinn shouted in her ear, wrapping his arm around her shoulders protectively. He guided her forward as they weaved through the mob towards the stage.

    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    Eventually, they reached the barrier separating the VIP section from the general admission. A burly bouncer stood watch, preventing anyone from stepping over or hopping the railing into the roped-off area.

    Fii spotted Walle chatting up another girl nearby, the same drink he''d promised to buy at the bar now clutched in his hand. His arm wrapped around her waist, his body leaning intimately close. As Fii watched, the girl slapped him hard across the face, her expression livid as she stormed off. Walle rubbed his reddened cheek, seeming unfazed by the rejection as he shrugged nonchalantly before turning towards a guy standing nearby.

    As the crowd grew denser around her, Quinn tugged her closer, pulling her in until her back touched his chest. Her breath caught in her throat at the sudden contact, and she glanced nervously over her shoulder, noticing the way his eyes met hers briefly. She looked away quickly, embarrassed, her cheeks growing hot.

    "Hey," he murmured in her ear, his breath tickling her neck. She shivered, goosebumps breaking out across her skin despite the stifling heat permeating the room.

    "Um. H-Hi," she replied, her voice cracking slightly. She cleared her throat self-consciously, trying to keep herself steady. "T-thanks again for getting the tickets, Quinn."

    She glanced around, distracted by the surging mob around her, not used to being squashed so closely among so many strangers. She also needed something to focus on besides the intense beating of her heart and the way it seemed to quicken whenever he touched her.

    A hush descended over the crowd as the lights dimmed, signaling the beginning of the show. Everyone''s attention turned to the darkened stage as anticipation built.

    Fii''s hands tightened on the railing in front of her, her knuckles turning white from gripping the metal pole so hard. Her previous awkwardness around Quinn faded, replaced entirely by eager excitement.

    They''re here. They''re here! He''s here! I can''t believe I''m gonna get to see Kenzo perform on the big stage!

    When was the last time she listened to his songs? It felt like forever ago. Didn''t matter though. Tonight, she would soak in all the music and energy that she could. Nothing could ruin this. Nothing at all.

    Suddenly, the music started, and a spotlight shone on the middle of the stage, where a figure emerged from the darkness. Fii recognized him immediately; Kenzo, the lead singer and composer of Shunkash¨±t¨­, stepped forward, a mic on hand, his lean frame bathed in the glare of the lights.

    His clothing was a unique mix of traditional and modern, with a loose-fitting kimono top accentuating his toned shoulders and torso. A baggy pair of harem pants completed the ensemble, the material flowing around his ankles as he danced around the stage. His jet-black hair, tousled and unkempt, bounced wildly around his head with each step.

    Behind him, the rest of the band filtered in, each member dressed in unique and colorful attire. Some wore traditional garb, while others incorporated modern touches like neon-colored hair, ripped jeans, and studded accessories.

    The stage burst into life as the band launched into their performance, the crowd exploding in cheers and screams as Kenzo sang the first verse. His voice rang clear and pure, rising above the din of the audience and carrying across the room.

    Fii couldn''t help but bob her head along to the music, her body swaying unconsciously to the beat. She could tell that the band was only warming up, but she didn''t mind; this was what she had been waiting for all night. She watched raptly, enthralled by Kenzo''s movements as he commanded the stage.

    Kenzo hopped onto a platform in the corner, leaping easily atop one of the amps that lined the wall. With both feet planted firmly, he continued rapping, his lyrics flowing smoothly as the beats thumped in the background. His voice filled the room, and he punctuated certain lines by stomping his feet, emphasizing the rhythmic flow.

    He jumped down, landing nimbly, and resumed dancing, his hands gesturing wildly as he sang. He pranced across the stage, throwing his arms up in the air and shouting into the mic. The other members followed suit, their own movements mirroring his own, punctuating the words with their actions.

    The crowd surged forward, pushing against the rails, their bodies heaving in time to the beat. The tempo increased, building and building to a crescendo as the band ramped up their performance. Fii found herself jumping along with everyone else, losing herself to the rhythm of the song.

    As Kenzo belted out the lyrics, his voice crescendoed, rising above the sound of the instruments and the cheering crowd.

    Fii''s body tingled, goosebumps rising on her skin. She screamed along with the crowd, raising her arms above her head, her eyes locked on Kenzo''s figure onstage. The music thundered in her ears, enveloping her senses completely. Her heart hammered in her chest, and she felt electrified, giddy, exhilarated.

    The band continued to perform, rocking out, the heavy rhythms pumping through the speakers and driving the crowd to scream louder. Fii danced alongside everyone else, her hips shaking, her feet stomping, her arms flailing as she reveled in the experience.

    She glanced at Quinn, who looked at her with a huge grin on his face as they both jumped up and down.

    It felt good to move, to let loose, to not worry about anything or anybody else. All her problems melted away, and only the music existed, filling her senses¡ªthe beat, the energy, the passion. Everything.

    Kenzo''s voice pierced through the fog of noise and sound. He jumped around the stage, his feet pounding on the wood planks, his movements perfectly synchronized with the band behind him. With every step, he spun and danced, his movements graceful yet powerful. The VIP crowd roared as he approached them, reaching out for his hands as he skidded to the edge of the stage. Some tried to climb up, but security swiftly shoved them back into place, preventing the crowd from pouring onto the platform.

    As the song drew to a close, Kenzo leapt high into the air, his arms extended towards the audience, the crowd screaming and cheering him on. The other band members joined him, leaping in unison as the music swelled, their silhouettes bathed in a golden light.

    The final note vibrated through the speakers, the thunderous applause shaking the building. Fii and Quinn clapped along, cheering and whistling.

    Then, the band launched into the next song, the music picking back up where they left off. The audience went wild, their cries intensifying as the band performed yet another banger.

    Fii continued dancing and bouncing along, lost in the moment. Quinn wrapped an arm around her shoulders, keeping her close, occasionally whispering into her ear to ask if she was alright. She''d just smile in response, nodding as they returned to enjoying the music.

    Midway through the set, Kenzo''s voice softened, his gaze sweeping across the crowd. "Oi, oi, oi! You guys hear about Axion, yeah?" He asked, adjusting his grip on the mic. "That Super, running around, helping people out, kicking ass and taking names. You''ve probably seen her, yeah?"

    The crowd erupted in cheers, a few even calling out her name.

    Fii''s heart raced at the mention of her alter-ego. She glanced at Quinn with her mouth agape, who smirked and gave her a quick nod.

    She blushed, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the sudden attention. She hadn''t expected Kenzo to talk about her, let alone praise her so publicly.

    "Mattaku sonot¨­ri! She''s out there, doing what she does¡ªa Slumshine who''s putting it all out there, every day. Like us. Like the rest of the Slum. But she ain''t afraid, ain''t scared, to stick her neck out, to go on the offense. I like that. That''s what we need more of around here!"

    The audience cheered, the sound deafening as they clapped and hollered.

    "So, here''s to her and her heroics, yeah?" Kenzo lifted his fist to the sky, his hand clenched tight, a defiant gesture that resonated with the crowd. "The next song is dedicated to her, you hear? For Axion! Banzai!"

    "Banzai!" The audience cheered, stamping their feet. A chant formed, growing louder and louder until it drowned out the band''s performance. "Axion, Axion, Axion!"

    "Spread the word! Shunkash¨±t¨­ and Axion! Collab!" Kenzo shouted into the mic, egging on the crowd. "Let''s get her to the stage! Let''s do it, people! Tell all your friends. Next time one of you sees her, let her know. Bring that Super over to the Tower and we''ll welcome her properly. Our city. Our hero." He pointed out to the crowd, who answered with another wave of fervent cheers.

    Fii''s eyes nearly bugged out of her skull as she screamed along with everyone else, elated at the prospect of Kenzo recognizing her alter ego.

    "HOLY SHIIII¡ª"

    <hr>

 Chapter 42: Meeting the Band

    Edith''s disheveled hair framed her face, giving her a wild, feral appearance as she hunched over the microscope. The fluorescent light cast a sickly pallor on her pale skin, creating deep shadows under her eyes. Frown lines creased the corners of her lips, the harsh expression only broken by the occasional twitch of her eyebrow or the slight tilt of her head.

    She scribbled notes onto a clipboard, muttering to herself as she worked.

    Fii stood nearby, biting her fingernails and wringing her hands together. Her face twisted into a grimace as she tried to come up with the right words to say. "Err, so, I wanted to ask you something," she mumbled, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. "I kinda had an interesting night. Well, it was more than just interesting, but anyways, I ended up going to see Kenzo''s band perform, and I got inspired, and¡ª"

    Edith held up a hand, silencing her. "Yes, yes, I get it. The Slum''s golden boy is looking for you. Well, for Axion. Whatever." She rolled her eyes, glancing at Fii with a sardonic expression. "Whatever you want to do, go ahead and do it. Just remember priorities, okay? Don''t get distracted by these people."

    Fii blinked, taken aback. "Wha? How''d you know...?"

    Edith sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Sheri told me. Some of our patients told her about it. Apparently, it happened at the concert? Is this some new trend or something?" She groaned, her expression souring. "Seriously, what''s the point in having you lay low when half the slums are talking about you?"

    Fii scratched the back of her head sheepishly, unsure how to respond. "Oh, well... um, I mean, it was really cool of them to support me like that. It means a lot, you know? That someone like Kenzo is spreading the word, sharing his fans, and celebrating my alter-ego¡ªthat''s no joke." She perked up at the memory of last night. "I mean, he even said he wanted to collab with me on his music. It''s a big deal. It''s really, really big."

    "That''s why I''m okay with you taking the gig, I suppose," Edith remarked with a snort. "This might even work to our advantage. After all, you''ll gain popularity, fame, and most importantly, a following. All those who admire you and aspire to follow in your footsteps." She paused, staring at Fii with a glint in her eye. "Powerful allies. Loyal allies."

    "Wait, seriously? You mean it? I can go?" She blurted out, her tone incredulous. "Are you okay? Do you need anything? Are you feeling sick?" Fii approached her cautiously, extending a hand to test the temperature of Edith''s forehead.

    Edith swatted Fii away dismissively, frowning. "Psh, yes. Just don''t go causing trouble, and try not to act stupid."

    That was... surprisingly easy. She had expected more resistance from Edith, considering how cagey and secretive she typically acted. Something else must be motivating her. Perhaps she''d find out later. For now, she focused on the positives.

    "Gotcha." Fii flashed a thumbs-up. "Thanks, Edith. I''ll be on my best behavior. Promise." She turned to leave, but stopped herself mid-step, spinning on her heel to face Edith once more. "Do you want Kenzo''s autograph or something?"

    "Why would I want his signature?" Edith retorted, shooting her a flat look. "You''re the raving fangirl here, not me."

    "Ah, nevermind." She waved the question off and skipped happily out of the room, leaving the scientist to her devices.

    <hr>

    Axion stared at her reflection in the mirrored window of the Tower of Songs. The LED eyes of her cyber-helmet reflected back, bright and ethereal. She brushed imaginary dust from her sleek bodysuit, her fingers trailing over the carbon fiber mesh. The sleek design hugged her curves perfectly, showcasing her athleticism without sacrificing style.

    After a moment of self-assessment, she glanced towards the double doors of the venue and heaved a long sigh. Then she pushed the doors open, entering the main hall with a confident stride.

    Axion''s entrance garnered instant attention. Patrons turned to stare, their conversations quieting as she strode past. Some of them pointed excitedly, while others whispered in hushed tones. But none of them dared approach. Instead, they chose to gawk, admiring her from a safe distance.

    Despite the interest she generated, Axion kept moving forward, heading straight towards the auditorium. The noise of the main lobby faded as she crossed into the hallway leading to the concert venue.

    As she walked, a strange sensation tingled her spine. A sense of nervousness settled into her stomach, but she brushed it aside and continued on. A couple more turns, then she arrived at a set of reinforced doors engraved with the Shunkash¨±t¨­ logo. She reached for the handle, pausing briefly to steel herself before opening it wide and entering.

    Inside, the sounds of a lively rehearsal echoed through the room. Members of Shunkash¨±t¨­ lounged about, idly chatting amongst themselves, tuning instruments, and playing with equipment. No one noticed her immediately, but a few heads did turn when she entered.

    Axion hesitated in the doorway, uncertain of where to start. Should she walk directly toward Kenzo? Or should she wait for him to acknowledge her? She could just stand in one spot until someone came over to greet her, but that seemed a bit silly. Finally, she opted for a middle ground¡ªshe moved closer to the main group, choosing a spot near one of the equipment racks. She positioned herself in plain sight, yet out of the way, hoping her presence wouldn''t interfere too much with the band''s preparations.

    She gazed at the members, admiring them from afar. She had grown up listening to their songs, idolizing their talent and charisma. And now here she was, standing in front of them. She still couldn''t believe it. She wished she could take this helmet off and truly breathe it all in.

    "Oi, oi, oi! You''re Axion, yeah?" Kenzo''s voice called out, snapping her from her thoughts.

    Startled, Axion glanced over to see him approaching. He carried himself with a casual confidence, his steps smooth and relaxed, his messy hair bounced with every step, while the loose strands of his kimono fluttered behind him. He wore a pair of loose-fitting black slacks and a white undershirt. Simple, yet stylish.

    "Mhm. Yep. I''m her. I''m here." Axion straightened her posture, clearing her throat awkwardly. "I heard you were looking for me?"

    "Kukuku," Kenzo chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Heard ya loud and clear when you saved people during the earthquake that time. Good job with that one." He flashed a toothy grin. "Man, you''re taller than I thought. Those rumors said you were short."

    "Uhh..." Axion faltered, unsure how to respond.

    He waved off her concerns, chuckling again. "Just messing with ya. Come, sit with us." He gestured to the group, beckoning her over. "Let''s chat for a bit. Get to know each other."

    Before she knew it, Axion found herself joining them around a table, seated beside Kenzo, surrounded by the entire band. She remained tense and guarded, hyper-aware of her surroundings. It didn''t help that she couldn''t tear her gaze away from Kenzo, mesmerized by the proximity of her idol.

    She swallowed, her palms sweaty, heart racing. Her vision swam slightly. Was she getting lightheaded? Maybe she should''ve eaten more today.

    "Relax, will ya?" Kenzo leaned in closer, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You look like a cornered rabbit about to bolt. Loosen up. We''re all friends here." He shot her a wink, grinning reassuringly.

    "Friends. Right. Okay." She nodded stiffly, forcing herself to calm down. She took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, willing herself to relax. "So, err, thanks for inviting me here. I appreciate the opportunity. Really."

    "It''s nothing." Kenzo waved his hand dismissively. "We just figured we''d share the spotlight a bit, you know? Give the people something different." He smiled warmly. "Besides, I think you and us share the same goal. To bring a little joy, a little hope around here."

    He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, meeting her gaze directly. "And that makes you one of us. A Slumshine fighting the good fight. I respect that. We all do. So let''s enjoy the moment, enjoy what we have while we still got it, yeah?"

    Axion nodded mutely, unable to articulate a response. Her tongue seemed glued to the roof of her mouth, refusing to cooperate. All she could do was stare silently at the handsome face of her idol as he continued speaking.

    "You know, for someone who''s been chasing flickering lights, you''ve got quite the polished look. That suit of yours¡ªhigh-tech, ain''t it?"

    Axion fidgeted under his gaze, self-conscious. "Yeah, it''s... functional," she managed, feeling her face grow warm beneath the helmet. "And um, I don''t think what I do is chasing flickering lights. I just hope to inspire and influence others. Just like how you and the band inspire me." She swallowed. "I don''t think what we do is any different, to be honest."

    Kenzo nodded sagely, seemingly satisfied with her answer. He smiled, patting her shoulder encouragingly. "Glad to hear it. You got fire. I like that."

    "Thanks. Also, I like your kimono top. It suits you." She motioned to his outfit, desperate to shift the conversation away from her.

    He barked out a laugh. "Ha! Thanks. It''s a statement piece. To remind folks of our roots, but with modernity. People always seem to forget where they came from, you know?" He stared at her with a wistful expression. "These streets forged us, gave us the drive and passion to create, and hopefully, we can return the favor. Shine a little light into this city, even if it''s only a faint flickering glow."

    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

    "Yo, K-Dog. You getting a little cringe with that statement, bruv? Gotta watch out, or you''ll be an old man, standing in the rain, reminiscing about the good ol'' days." One of the band members joked, flashing a smirk at the rapper. "Maybe ease up on the cliche emo lines, eh?"

    Kenzo chuckled, slapping the guy''s shoulder playfully. "Shut it, you. Don''t ruin the moment, or we''ll all cringe together." He winked at Axion, who remained silent, not wanting to interrupt the banter between the two.

    They both shared a few more jokes, their laughter echoing throughout the room before turning to Axion. "Sorry ''bout that. He''s a little shit sometimes. What can you do, though? He''s family. We put up with his dumbassery." Kenzo grinned apologetically, shrugging helplessly. "But yeah, that''s the vibe we''re going for. Showing folks that traditions aren''t dead, not unless we let ''em die. And we won''t. Never gonna happen."

    The rest of the band chimed in, adding their support.

    "Hell yeah."

    "What he said."

    "Don''t you dare."

    Axion listened attentively as Kenzo and his crew bantered back and forth, the humor flowing naturally between the members. Eventually, the discussion shifted back towards her, which caused her heart rate to spike once more.

    "So, Axion, you got some catchy origin story?" Kenzo asked casually, reclining back in his chair. "Like, what made you decide to become a Super? I''m guessing that whoever made that cool gear of yours also provided motivation, yeah?"

    "Ah, well, I guess you could say that," Axion replied hesitantly. She rubbed her palms against her thighs nervously, contemplating how much to reveal. "I met someone that jumpstarted all this, and they convinced me that I could be more than just another nobody. They helped me discover who I could be, and with their support, I''ve been trying to do more since."

    "Ahh, you''ve got that whole mentor/mentee relationship going, huh? Nice, nice. Always loved those types of stories." Kenzo hummed approvingly, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "So, what exactly do you want to do as a Super? Help people? Get rid of all the gangs? Both?"

    Axion blinked, taken aback by the directness of his question.

    She thought back to the first time she met Virgil and the conversation they had about this exact topic.

    Sheep. Wolf. Shepard.

    Virgil''s words echoed through her mind.

    She still didn''t have a clear answer yet, but she''d made some progress. She understood where she stood and where she wanted to be, at least for now.

    "Helping people, I guess. As far as the gangs go, If they step out of line, then I''ll knock them back in place, but that''s not my priority." She paused, recalling Edith''s warnings about making a good impression. "Err, sorry if that sounds arrogant. It''s just my opinion. I just want to focus on helping people. That''s what''s important."

    "Nah, I feel you. It''s cool." Kenzo stood up and paced around the room, hands in pockets, clearly pondering her response. "So you''re saying you''d rather avoid the gangs than actively fight ''em. Which is fine. But how do you know when they step out of line? Who makes that call?"

    Axion tilted her head. The answer was so obvious that she was surprised he even asked.

    "Everyone knows the lines they shouldn''t cross. People know what''s fair, and what''s not. If you get pickpocketed, that''s your fault for being careless. But if you get mugged, that''s crossing a line. The slums have their own rules, but everyone understands them. Everyone respects them, for the most part. That''s how things work here. If the gangs start breaking the unwritten rules, that''s when I step in."

    Kenzo clicked his tongue before smirking. "Seems like you really are from here. Most outsiders get it wrong, especially the Supers who come here. They assume we live in chaos and violence, that we need heroes to save us." He scoffed derisively, rolling his eyes. "Even some folks in the slums believe that, and it''s annoying."

    "Supers came here before? I don''t remember that happening?" Axion asked quizzically.

    Kenzo ruffled his hair and shrugged. "Yeah. I used to know a guy who thought he could build a police force around here and establish some law and order. Didn''t take long for him to realize how stupid that idea was."

    Wait...was he talking about Virgil? Does he know him?

    "Did he end up leaving?" she asked.

    Kenzo shrugged again. "Who knows? Haven''t seen him in a long while. Anyways, I like how you operate. Helping where you can without stepping on toes. That''s a tough balance, but a necessary one. Hopefully, the gangs will learn to play ball, and we can avoid violence altogether."

    "That''d be nice, but I''m not counting on it." Axion sighed sadly.

    "Me neither, but a man can dream, right?" Kenzo stretched his arms over his head, yawning widely. "Anyhow, let''s switch back to music. You ever sing or rap?"

    "Hmm, not really." Axion shook her head. "But I listen to your songs all the time. Love them. Especially the ones with traditional instruments. They fit your songs so well, but in a fresh, new way. They make everything more vibrant and energetic. It''s beautiful."

    "Aha, so you are a fan of mine! See? I knew there was something about you I liked." Kenzo gave her an impish grin. "By the way, we''ve already started writing a song about you, and we''d love for you to be involved with it. It''s a little rough around the edges, but I think we''ve got the gist of what we''re going for."

    "You wrote a song about me?" The LED eyes on Axion''s helmet widened.

    "Sure did. Like I said, you''re the hottest thing right now. Even the young kids are talking about you. But the Rusties, they love you too. A hero that comes to life in the slums, one of their own. Not some outsider whose only connection to the place is their charity." Kenzo paused, shooting Axion an inquisitive glance. "You alright with that, or should we tone it down? Might be a bit embarrassing, yeah?"

    Axion rapidly shook her head. "No, no, I''m fine. I''m happy."

    "Mhm. Thought you''d appreciate it," Kenzo replied, chuckling lightly. "Now, about this song. Let me explain what I had in mind..."

    <hr>

    They spent the rest of the day brainstorming lyrics, melody, and beats. Despite her inexperience, Axion pitched in enthusiastically, offering some suggestions of her own, along with bits and pieces from her daily life in the slums. It wasn''t difficult; many of the sentiments expressed by Kenzo and his band were familiar to her.

    The desire to improve the slums, the love for the community, and the hope for a better tomorrow¡ªall core themes that she resonated strongly with.

    The band''s energy was contagious, and they often laughed and joked as they worked. Occasionally, someone would sneak a snack or two into their mouths, and there were plenty of moments when everyone simply sat around, resting their brains from the constant flow of ideas.

    Kenzo picked up his headphones, twirling them in his hands, deep in thought. "The thing is, Axion, this song needs a hook, a centerpiece, to tie everything together. I get the impression you have a unique voice, and if you want, I''d like you to sing the lead. The vocals are usually my territory, but I''ve been thinking of stepping aside to give the spotlight to you. Show off what you got. Ya dig?"

    "My voice?" She laughed nervously. "Um, well, I''ve never sang before, except for shower concerts." Her voice trailed off as she recalled her earlier conversations with Edith regarding her identity. "Err, also, if I sang, people might recognize my voice or something. I don''t wanna attract too much attention to myself. Plus, I don''t think my voice is that great."

    Kenzo leaned in closer, a mischievous grin etched across his face. "Ya gotta keep the helmet on, right? Don''t worry about it; Your singing voice is gonna be different from your normal speaking voice, so no one''ll recognize you. You got range? Can you hit high notes or low ones? A range will give us options, and it''ll let us express the emotion we''re trying to convey."

    "Ah...uhm, maybe?"

    Kenzo stood up, slipping on the headphones. "Lemme hear it." He offered the microphone to her, gesturing for her to hold it in front of her face. "Turn off that voice modulator and start singing anything. Doesn''t matter what. Just something that speaks to you, something personal. Got it?"

    "Right." Axion gulped, accepting the microphone tentatively. She turned off the voice modulator and cleared her throat, attempting to settle her nerves. Her hands trembled as she brought the mic close to her mouth, but she tried to ignore them.

    Focus. Calm down. Don''t screw this up. She breathed in deeply, taking a moment to gather herself before opening her lips.

    Guess I could try singing a couple of their songs.

    She sang softly at first, quietly, afraid of sounding bad. Her voice sounded hoarse and scratchy, even to her ears. But she kept going, gradually building up to a comfortable volume. As she sang, her confidence grew, and soon enough, she no longer cared who heard her.

    Once she finished, she looked to Kenzo, who appeared to be deep in concentration. She waited patiently for his response. When it came, his eyes lit up and he flashed a bright smile. "Ikeru ze! You do have range. With a little training, we can work on polishing up your vocal control, but I think you''ve got potential." He clapped his hands, motioning for the band to assemble.

    The other members seemed pleased as well, nodding appreciatively.

    "Kawaii."

    "Sho skillz, girl. Impressive."

    "That voice tho. Mmhmmm. Sounds so sweet~"

    "Can we keep her?"

    The comments went on until finally, Kenzo addressed Axion directly. "Well, you hear that? Congratulations, you''ve just made yourself a member of Shunkash¨±t¨­, even if temporarily." He winked at her knowingly. "But first, there''s something you gotta do first."

    Axion cocked her head slightly. "What''s that?"

    Kenzo snapped his fingers, pointing at her as he declared dramatically, "A little initiation ceremony for the new member! You might have the heart, but I gotta know if you''ve got the skills to carry your conviction."

    "Skills? What do you mean?"

    "Simple, we spar. Gotta see if you''ve got what it takes, ya know?" Kenzo explained, flashing a devious smile. "One-on-one. Me and you. Tomorrow, at the Rusted Colosseum. High Noon. Think you can manage? Or are you chickening out?"

    The other band members whistled and hooted at the suggestion.

    Axion remained silent, unsure how to react.

    There were so many things weird about this request. Why did he want her to fight? Were they testing her somehow? And why choose a combat venue? There was no way she could fight her idol seriously. She was a metahuman now. He''s just a normal guy...right? This must be a joke. A prank? Maybe?

    Yet, no matter how hard she thought about it, the logic didn''t add up. This was supposed to be a collaboration, not an audition. Besides, Kenzo wasn''t the type of person to engage in such nonsense. His reputation was spotless; he never wasted his time on trivial matters like this.

    Maybe the sparring match has a deeper meaning? Or am I overthinking this?

    The more Axion ruminated, the more confused she became. Eventually, she threw her hands in the air, exasperated. "Ughhh, I don''t get why we need to do this. Why do you want to fight me, anyway? We''re supposed to be working together."

    Kenzo folded his arms behind his head and leaned back, appearing nonchalant. "I''ll let you know more about my reasons tomorrow. So, will you show up or not? You don''t have to win, you just gotta last fifteen minutes. Easy peasy." He met her gaze confidently, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Think you can handle that? Or should I just count you out now?"

    "I''m a Super, you know?" Axion sighed heavily, resigning herself to the situation. "How does a normal person like you expect to beat me? But fine, whatever. I''ll bite. Let''s do this, and then we can go back to collaborating like we were before."

    Kenzo responded by bursting into laughter, doubling over in a fit of mirth. "Kukuku, atta girl! Knew I liked you. Can''t wait to see what you''ve got, but just remember¡ªno holding back. Understand?" He wagged a finger warningly. "I''ll know if you''re pulling punches. I want you to give it all you''ve got, because you don''t stand a chance otherwise. And that''s no fun. Now go get ready and rest up. You''ll need your strength for tomorrow."

    The other members cheered as Kenzo departed, leaving Axion alone to contemplate her fate.

    What''s making him so confident?

 Chapter 43: Throw Down

    Axion''s shoes crunched against the gravel as she made her way to the Rusted Colosseum. The sun blazed overhead, casting a harsh glare over the dilapidated open-air stadium.

    Rust and graffiti covered the outer walls, obscuring the once-proud insignias and logos that adorned them. The concrete floors and bleachers were cracked and worn, and the chain-link fences that ringed the arena hung loosely from their posts, swaying gently in the wind.

    <I still think this is a bad idea to go along with, Fii.> Edith''s voice crackled through the comm-link as Axion approached the entrance. <This could all be a trap. Please, be careful, and try to de-escalate the situation if possible.>

    "Kenzo''s not like that, Edith. He''s a good guy. Relax. It''ll be fine. Probably just a bit of harmless fun. And besides, I''m a Super. I doubt he can hurt me." Axion mumbled, careful to keep her voice low so no one would overhear.

    <You''ve only met the guy once and suddenly you''re best friends, is that it?> Edith replied curtly, her irritation evident. <Don''t be such a fangirl, Fii. You''ll get duped. Remember, his type is charismatic and charming, the kind of person that makes you lower your guard, makes you trust him implicitly. Be on your guard.>

    "Chill Edith. Seriously. You''re overthinking things again." Axion rolled her eyes, clicking off the comm as she rounded a corner.

    As she entered the center of the field, she caught sight of Kenzo, standing in the middle of the stadium. He wore a simple pair of sweatpants and a tank top, showing off his toned physique. His feet were bare, and his hair was slicked back, revealing his angular face. He had a playful grin plastered on his lips, and a sparkle in his eyes.

    "Right on time!" Kenzo waved lazily at her as she approached, his posture relaxed and casual. "Ready to throw down?"

    Axion stopped a few meters away, giving them both space.

    "Are you gonna tell me why we''re doing this, at least?" she asked, still feeling lost and bewildered.

    She looked around the stadium, noting the absence of anyone else except for the rest of Kenzo''s band, who were huddled around the perimeter of the field, cheering and heckling.

    "I guess you''re not patient enough to wait ''till after our fight, huh? Alright, I''ll tell you." Kenzo shrugged indifferently as he paced around the field, stretching his limbs as he spoke. "First, I wanted to see if you really were from the slums or not. I couldn''t believe it at first, but after meeting you, I''ve confirmed it for myself."

    He chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "If you weren''t from around here. That would have been strike one. Second, when I asked you about why you became a Super and your goals, I could tell you were being honest, which is a good thing. Honest, blunt, yet not without reservations. If I thought you lacked either, you''d have been strike two."

    Axion gulped, feeling a cold sweat form on her brow as she listened.

    Where was he going with this?

    Kenzo continued, oblivious to her nervousness. "Honestly, if you failed any of the two, I would have ended our collaboration then and there and would have challenged you to a duel here instead."

    "Wha¡ªseriously?! Why?"

    He turned to her, a serious expression on his face. "You''ve probably realized by now that there''s a bounty on you, and plenty of folks in the slums are eager to take a shot at getting rich quick, not just the gangs. If you were just some punk chasing flickering lights, acting like a Super without putting the work in, or worse, a Skimmer who was just pretending to be a Super while not understanding our struggle, then I would be going after your bounty myself."

    The LED eyes on Axion''s helmet widened.

    Kenzo rolled his shoulders and rotated his neck, loosening his joints. "But you passed those two tests. You''re alright. Great, even. You''ve convinced me not to pursue the bounty. Ain''t you lucky?"

    Axion blinked several times, processing this revelation. "Err, so...why do you still want to fight me?"

    Kenzo smirked. "Because, the third and final test isn''t over yet, and you haven''t failed, but you haven''t passed either. Like I said yesterday, I want to see if you''ve got what it takes to carry that conviction of yours."

    He lifted a hand, waving a single digit. "For this, I gotta see you fight without restraint. Without holding back. Until then, I won''t consider this test completed, and the band will have nothing to do with you."

    His eyes narrowed. "Understood?"

    Axion took a deep breath, steadying herself. She glanced at the band, who eagerly returned her gaze, before returning her attention to Kenzo. "You''re just a normal person, though. How the hell is a normal person supposed to beat a Metahuman?"

    Kenzo walked over to the nearest dugout and grabbed a sword¡ªa large, curved katana with a unique pommel designed to resemble musical notes. He raised it high, pointing it at Axion. "Who said I''m just a normal person?" He laughed sharply, his eyes emitting a faint amber glow. "I''m also a Metahuman, duh."

    <hr>

    Axion''s eyes narrowed, a flicker of annoyance stirring in her as she gazed at the sword in Kenzo''s grip. "A sword? Really? I thought we were just gonna spar? Unless you really plan to kill me? Is that it?"

    Kenzo''s grin didn''t waver. "Relax. This blade''s edge won''t cut flesh, but don''t get it twisted¡ªit ain''t a toy." He twirled the weapon effortlessly in his palm as if it weighed nothing. "Grab one of those metal bats I set up for ya. I''m sure you can swing one of them decently."

    Axion eyed the bats in the other dugout, each one dented and worn from use. She reluctantly made her way over to the pile of bats, grabbing one of the heavier ones. She gave it a practice swing, eliciting a faint screech as it cleaved through the air.

    "You know, I''ve fought multiple gangs by now. I''m not worried about fighting a single person, but I''ve never even fought a single Super, though."

    "Noted. That''s why I''m only asking for fifteen minutes." Kenzo flashed another toothy smile, before assuming a battle-ready stance. He bent his knees, lowering himself slightly, his right arm angled towards the ground, his left gripping the scabbard, his thumb pressing firmly against the pommel of his sword.

    "Now, stop wasting time and prepare yourself. We begin in 3, 2¡ª"

    "¡ªwait, hold o-"

    The rest of Kenzo''s crew sitting at the stands broke out a vintage boombox, hitting play. An old track began to pump through the speakers¡ªone Axion recognized instantly. It was one of Kenzo''s early songs, the lyrics filled with braggadocio, swagger, and cockiness.

    "¡ª1. Start."

    The moment those words left his lips, Kenzo kicked off the ground with a burst of speed that caught her completely by surprise.

    Holy¡ª!

    Axion barely managed to parry his initial slash, swinging the bat instinctively to block in panic. A sharp screech rang in her ears, as the impact of the attack forced her to skid back. The collision jarred her wrists and forearms, sending painful tremors coursing through her body.

    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    Oh, shit... that hurt!

    Despite her discomfort, Axion quickly regained her composure and swung her bat, hoping to deliver a counterattack.

    Kenzo merely ducked the wild blow, easily evading her attempt. He then thrust his scabbard at her face with a flick of his wrist, catching her off guard.

    It felt like a bag of bricks smashed directly into her visor. With a sharp crack, she stumbled back, clutching her head in pain. Stars swam through her vision as her balance wavered unsteadily, and she struggled to remain upright.

    Fuck! I''ve only lasted like, a couple seconds, and I already feel like I''m about to lose.

    Kenzo watched her dispassionately as she regained her footing, his demeanor calm, unfazed, and unhurried. "Come on, Axion. Quit fucking around. Are you even trying to take this seriously?"

    "Why don''t you give me a break?" she grunted, swinging the bat wildly in hopes of creating distance between them.

    With a series of smooth movements, Kenzo parried all of her attacks with practiced ease. Every blow she swung seemed to flow effortlessly through him, deflected by a combination of timing, positioning, and momentum. She wasn''t able to land a single strike.

    Kenzo moved with a rhythm, his steps almost like a dance, his blade an extension of his body. Each swing, each motion, flowed with a beat, perfectly in sync with the music blaring from the speaker.

    Is he fighting along with the music? Talk about a style. Wait, why the fuck am I impressed right now? Focus! I need to focus!

    The small crowd watching them cheered every time he attacked, hooting whenever he narrowly avoided an incoming swing, or dodged a blow that looked like it might connect.

    Her grip tightened on the bat, the gravel beneath her crunching as she slid her feet. With a determined grunt, she dashed forward once again, raising the bat over her shoulder to deliver a powerful overhead smash.

    This time, Kenzo chose to meet her charge head-on, stabbing forward with his blade.

    Axion reacted with a twist, desperately pivoting away from the attack.

    But it was a feint.

    Kenzo swept his scabbard low, aiming for her legs. Caught unaware, she tried to leap over the attack. However, she miscalculated its trajectory and jumped a split-second too late, the scabbard connecting solidly with her shin. A brief moment of searing pain assaulted her senses, followed by numbness and the sensation of weightlessness.

    He sent her flying into the air with a clean kick.

    Crap! Shit! Shit!

    Axion found herself spinning uncontrollably for a moment before crashing hard onto the ground below, sending a cloud of dust and dirt spraying into the air. A dull ache throbbed within her ribs, and her vision blurred as she attempted to stand.

    "Oi, oi! You gonna show me your power yet?" Kenzo taunted, bobbing his head along with the beat as he approached, casually sheathing his sword. "This is starting to feel less like a test, and more like a one-sided beating." He stepped beside her prone body and crouched, looking down at her. "Tick-tock, time''s running out."

    You asked for it!

    Axion concentrated, increasing the gravity surrounding Kenzo''s body to weigh him down.

    A strained cry escaped his lips as his knees buckled, and he toppled to the ground with a surprised groan.

    "Uwah! Nani kore!?" He splayed out his arms, struggling to push himself off the ground.

    Axion pulled herself to her feet, her body aching as she stood over him. Her helmet''s eyes flickered with triumph and satisfaction, and she readied her bat to strike. "My turn to bonk you."

    The bass dropped on the song, and as she swung her bat, Kenzo leapt back, escaping her range.

    Dammit!

    He landed a good ten meters away, brushing the dirt from his pants with one hand and rubbing his forehead with the other.

    "Woah, now that''s what I''m talking about," he exclaimed, his body swaying with the beat. "We''re getting somewhere now. Good, very good."

    Kenzo rushed forward, drawing his sword and slicing diagonally upward. He aimed for the bat, but Axion reflexively blocked it with a downward parry. As their weapons clashed, she channeled the same tactic from their previous exchange. She increased the gravity surrounding him, pushing him down in hopes of staggering him.

    But this time, Kenzo was quick to jump away as soon as he sensed the shift, leaping backward a fair distance, as though repelled.

    As he skidded to a halt, Kenzo flashed a grin, his irises glowing brightly. "Don''t really know what your power is all about, but it feels like you''re just making me heavier or something. Mmn...the range is pretty limited though. Two meters at most?" He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, studying her carefully. "Doesn''t seem to be all that useful, considering you''ve gotta stay so close to your opponent."

    Shit! Did he figure it out? No, no. He doesn''t know I manipulate gravity yet, at least. Okay, play it cool, Axion. Don''t let him bait you.

    She also didn''t know what his power was either, but she surmised it was related to music, or perhaps sound itself. Either way, since he was a metahuman like her, the advantage of heightened strength and agility no longer favored her as much. Against a regular person, those advantages would be unassailable, but against another metahuman, they might as well be regular stats.

    But he definitely seemed more used to fighting people, and probably knew some sort of martial arts too. It showed in the way he carried himself and his poise.

    The music transitioned to a faster beat, matching Kenzo''s pace as he circled around her, the sword in his grasp trailing behind him. Axion matched him, rotating slowly, keeping her stance steady as she tried to come up with a plan.

    Kenzo¡¯s eyes sparkled, a hint of surprise, maybe respect. He tapped his foot, a new rhythm, faster, erratic. His blade vibrated in tune, resonating in time with the music. With a sharp yell, he charged at her, the sword a blur.

    Axion retreated, dancing back, trying to dodge his attacks. But he seemed to anticipate her movements, adjusting his angle to catch her off-guard. A series of loud metallic clangs echoed throughout the stadium, as Kenzo''s sword sliced through the thick metal bat with ease.

    As the pieces fell to the ground, Axion backed away. She tossed the remnants of the bat aside, eyeing her opponent warily.

    What the hell just happened? Did his sword suddenly become sharper?

    Kenzo twirled his sword with a flourish, a smirk on his lips. "¹²øQÈÐ (Ky¨­mei Ha). Resonance Edge. I can make my sword vibrate with the beat, and can also change its frequency to resonate with whatever material I''m cutting through. Steel, glass, or even stone." He nodded appreciatively as he sheathed his blade. "Pretty cool power, yeah? So, whatcha think?"

    SO COOL! Wish I wasn''t on the receiving end of it but, man, that was awesome! Kenzo is so badass!

    Aloud, she grumbled, "Nothing special," despite her excitement.

    Kenzo''s smirk transformed into a full-blown laugh. "Yeah, well, let''s see how long you can last, even if it''s nothing special."

    He darted at her, closing the distance with a burst of speed, his sword poised for a strike.

    As Kenzo''s sword swung down in a swift, decisive arc, Axion''s instincts kicked in.

    She crouched slightly, feeling the familiar tug of gravity beneath her feet. In her mind''s eye, she pictured the gravitational pull around her feet becoming asymmetric¡ªstronger at the back, weaker at the front. She felt the familiar sensation of lightness under her feet, the subtle tug of gravity anchoring her even as she willed herself lighter.

    With a deft twist of her foot, she angled the gravity field, feeling herself glide smoothly to the left, barely evading Kenzo''s strike. She pushed off with her right foot, extending the slide, allowing her to cover more ground in fewer strides.

    Axion didn''t waste a moment. As she slid, she angled her body, using her hands as rudders to steer her path, propelling herself towards the dugout where the metal bats lay in wait.

    As she neared the dugout, she adjusted the gravitational field, allowing herself to slow down just enough to maintain control. With a final push, she propelled herself upward, grabbing onto the edge of the dugout with one hand to steady herself. Her other hand reached out, snatching one of the heavier bats from the pile.

    She whipped around, facing her opponent.

    From the distance, Kenzo quirked a brow. His lips curled upwards, and his eyes shone with curiosity as he stared at her. "Oi, what the hell was that? You don''t just make people near you heavier?"

    Axion placed a hand on her hip, tapping the barrel of the bat against the ground rhythmically. "Gravity. Ever heard of it?"

    Kenzo scratched his head, his eyes darting from her to the ground. He began pacing in circles, muttering to himself, deep in thought. Then, he turned to Axion, pointing an accusatory finger. "Kakkoii! So that''s what that sensation was. Hmm... Gravity, eh? And you can manipulate that freely?"

    He pointed to the ground. "I''m guessing it''s a field that surrounds you and increases the effect of gravity? Mmn, you could probably reduce its effects on you to fly or make things float. What determines the radius? Does the range depend on how many objects you affect simultaneously, or does the range increase when you master your power further?"

    As Axion stood silently, attempting to process the barrage of questions, Kenzo abruptly halted.

    He broke into a broad smile and slapped a fist into his palm. "Kukuku, clever girl." He bounced on his heels, tilting his head side-to-side in time with the music. "Alright, it''s official, I like you. You''ve earned my respect, but we''re far from done here. Not quite yet!"

 Chapter 44: Harmonic Samurai

    Kenzo''s feet pivoted, his body swaying rhythmically to the pulsating beats thrumming from the boombox. His eyes locked onto Axion, following her movement with deliberate focus. As she twirled the bat, he began to bob his head along with the music, matching its tempo.

    The band began to rap, spitting their verses in unison. The cadence, rhythm, and flow of their rapping immediately reflected in Kenzo''s movements¡ªflowing through him like an ebb and tide.

    He grinned, feeling the vibe as he moved. This is where he excelled, in tune with his surroundings, riding the current. Kenzo let the music fill his heart and soul, losing himself to its hypnotic allure. Time seemed to slow down, his movements becoming second nature, instinctive. Everything felt like clockwork.

    Everything was in perfect harmony.

    In moments, Kenzo closed the distance between them. He lunged at Axion, sword drawn and at the ready. A wild, crazed grin plastered his face.

    Axion stiffened, hastily raising her bat in defense. She hunkered down, planting her feet firmly on the ground as she prepared for the imminent impact.

    With a deft movement of his wrist, he redirected the sword into a wide horizontal slash. The blade arced across, grazing the side of her bat with a loud shriek.

    Axion countered with a furious swing of her own, aiming for his head. Her helmet''s eyes narrowed, focused intently on Kenzo''s face.

    He smirked.

    Too honest...but that''s not a bad thing.

    Kenzo ducked, the bat whistling past him. He slid across the gravel, his sword outstretched. Aiming for her legs, he lunged.

    Axion pivoted, shifting her weight. She adjusted the direction of her gravity, pulling herself backwards and away from danger. She tucked in her arms, flipping sideways in the air as she descended to the ground. Her feet touched the earth, and she redirected the field, stabilizing her movement.

    She whirled around, wielding the bat as a shield.

    Nice form.

    Kenzo stepped in, sword angled for a piercing thrust. As his blade struck the bat, he tilted his sword downward, redirecting his attack into a heavy chop.

    The bat spun away, skittering across the ground. Axion tried to retreat, but he pressed his advantage. Using his free hand, he caught the collar of her jacket and tugged. She yelped, tumbling toward him as she lost her balance. Kenzo swiftly shifted his weight, sending an elbow crashing into her stomach.

    As Axion doubled over in pain, he placed a hand on her helmet, forcing her to face him. "It''s only been a few minutes. How do you feel?"

    Her helmet''s eyes were dim and unfocused, but she shook her head and straightened herself. "I-I''m okay. Let''s keep going." She seemed surprisingly earnest as she said this.

    Kenzo''s mouth curved into a crooked smile. "Kakkoii."

    He released her jacket and stepped back. "I like the spirit. Now, let''s pick up the tempo a bit, shall we?" He glanced over at the boombox, where the band stood waiting expectantly.

    "Yo, play the next track!" He pumped his fist into the air. "The real fun begins now!"

    The band shouted their approval, scrambling to change the tune.

    The beat changed, this time a song featuring a fast-paced melody. It had a vibrant groove, with heavy drums and synths underscoring the tune. Kenzo''s body moved in sync, matching the rhythm. He turned to face Axion, nodding his head along with the beat. "Get ready."

    Kenzo broke into a brisk jog, circling her as he analyzed her stance. His gaze lingered on the bat in her hands, studying its movement. The tip of his tongue peeked from between his lips, and he squinted.

    No, no. This won''t do. There''s no precision. Too easy to predict.

    "Gotta move that ass if you wanna get anywhere in this fight, yo!" One of the rappers on the sideline heckled. "You ain''t gonna last if you fight like a geriatric granny!"

    Axion began moving, her steps clumsy, but efficient. "Urgh...dammit...why am I..."

    Kenzo noted that her steps were stilted, but she was quick to learn, already improving her stride. Still, her motions remained unrefined, lacking finesse. If she kept this up, he wouldn''t be surprised if she tripped on herself.

    Nervous? Afraid? Hesitant?

    Of course she was. After all, he had an overwhelming advantage here¡ªexperience. He knew how to read the situation, how to react, how to take advantage of the openings and weaknesses presented to him. She probably didn''t.

    But the girl was strong. She''d been in real fights before.

    Her awareness and reactions were sharper than most, and she adapted quickly to changes. Despite all that, she still had a ways to go.

    "Ikuze!" he yelled, before rushing at her again. This time, he led with a light thrust. Axion flinched, instinctively blocking the strike. As her bat connected with the sword, he smirked, ducking into a crouch. His leg snapped out, sweeping hers out from under her.

    "Oof!"

    Axion''s breath huffed, her body striking the ground with a soft thump. As she began to rise, Kenzo raised his sword, bringing it down in a heavy, downward chop.

    Suddenly, she was sliding away, as if tugged by an invisible thread. The moment her body was out of harm''s way, Kenzo''s blade sank deep into the dirt, the blade glancing off the surface with a high-pitched scraping sound.

    From a short distance away, Axion scrambled to her feet, dusting herself off. She adjusted her stance, adopting a more defensive posture, her bat held tightly in her grasp.

    "Quite the little trick you have there, Axion-chan." Kenzo withdrew his sword from the ground, studying its gleaming edge. He shot her a mischievous glance. "Wonder what else you can do with your power."

    Before Axion could answer, he sprang at her, aiming to capitalize on the opportunity. His sword lanced out, seeking her unprotected abdomen. However, rather than backpedaling, she slid into the strike. His eyes widened as she parried his sword and pushed forward, counterattacking with a straight punch.

    "Didja think I''d just run all day?!" she shot back, her helmet''s eyes flashing as she made contact with his gut. "Hah!"

    The sheer force of the impact took him by surprise, but he recovered quickly. With a grunt, he staggered back a step, keeping his balance.

    Axion moved to close the gap, and Kenzo again felt the strange sensation of his body becoming heavier. His muscles tensed, and he felt a pressure pushing him from all sides, constricting his movements. Even his sword felt like lead, the weight of its hilt threatening to drag it to the ground.

    Before Axion could try to follow up with a flurry of rapid blows, Kenzo channeled his strength.

    A surge of adrenaline coursed through his veins, and with a mighty roar, he pushed back, breaking out of the area of effect. His feet skidded across the gravel, kicking up a cloud of dust, before coming to a stop a dozen meters from Axion.

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    "Whew..." He wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Gotta say, that part of your power is a little annoying."

    "Not too shabby, huh?" She seemed to preen at the compliment.

    He narrowed his eyes, the corners of his lips curving into a sly half-smile. "Ah-ah, but let''s not get ahead of ourselves now. Remember, I''ve got tricks up my sleeves too." He winked at her before breaking out into a sprint. "Keep your eyes peeled. There''s gonna be a change in tempo any minute now!"

    As the music transitioned, so did Kenzo''s movements. He adopted a lower stance, his feet spreading wider, his body leaning forward as he dashed at her. When he finally reached her, he swung at her with a simple diagonal strike, which she effortlessly blocked. However, he unleashed a flurry of alternating chops, driving her back on her heels. Axion retreated further and further, parrying each strike.

    As he entered her zone of influence once more, he flickered back as soon as his attack missed or was parried, keeping just outside its limits. Like a fencer, he took full advantage of his superior range and speed to pepper her with numerous quick strikes, each one coming in at different angles.

    Each swing forced her to adjust her own stance accordingly, her helmet''s eyes darting around frantically, struggling to keep track of his sword.

    After each of his attacks, he noticed a shift in the direction and magnitude of the gravity around her.

    Where he expected the increase in weight, he instead found himself feeling lighter, which caused him to miss his mark or stumble during his subsequent assaults. At times, he felt the pull in an unexpected direction, yanking him towards her or to the side, yanking his sword out of line and disrupting his rhythm.

    "Geh!"

    How the hell is she doing that?

    This went on for a while. Every time he initiated another bout, he changed up his style, modulating his movement and attack pattern to challenge her, testing her responses. But each time, Axion met him head-on.

    It became clear to him that she was gradually learning and adapting to his strategies. Though she still struggled to read him and was easily startled by sudden moves or feints, she started anticipating his strikes better. The constant shift in her gravity field began to match his tempo, causing him to overextend or miscalculate the timing of his attacks.

    Amazing. She''s a natural. And she''s growing rapidly¡ª

    He jumped back, narrowly avoiding a haymaker aimed at his head.

    She swung her bat, but let go in mid-swing.

    The speed and trajectory of the makeshift projectile caught him by surprise.

    "Õñ„Ó¶Ü (Shind¨­ Tate)!" he spat out, without thinking. The force of his voice caused a ripple to form in the air, forming a thin, translucent shield that engulfed his body.

    The bat struck the barrier, producing a loud bang. The projectile bounced off, ricocheting wildly in the air for a split second before being captured by the gravity field surrounding Axion.

    She grabbed the bat, easily halting its motion in midair, as though it was suspended by strings. The only evidence it was in flight was the trail of dust left in its wake.

    They stared at each other, neither willing to move.

    Kenzo couldn''t help but be impressed by the display, and judging by the way her helmet''s eyes lit up, he guessed that Axion shared his sentiment. He placed his hands on his hips, laughing aloud. "Hoho, that was a nice move. Quite impressive, Axion-chan. Your control is improving rapidly. As is your creativity, it seems."

    He placed a finger on his chin, contemplating his next move. "Now then, how about we ramp it up a notch?" The corner of his lips curled upwards. "Let''s see how well you handle this, yeah?"

    Axion stood still, the bat in her hands gripped firmly. "Ready when you are."

    Kenzo lifted his sword and adjusted his stance once more, moving closer. This time, he entered her zone without hesitation. As soon as she tried to increase the gravitational pull, he responded with a quick dash forward, before altering his movement with a double step. As he maneuvered through the altered gravity, he struck out with his sword.

    Axion reacted instinctively, meeting his blow with her bat.

    Their weapons collided with a resounding clang, and he promptly followed up with two more strikes, aiming for her left and right flanks. She managed to block one blow, but the second strike landed, slamming against her body and sending her stumbling. As she tried to regain her footing, he rushed in, delivering a swift kick to her chest.

    She crashed to the ground with a muffled cry of pain, her bat slipping from her grip.

    As she clutched her injured side, Kenzo approached her, keeping a safe distance.

    Axion inspected her suit, her eyes narrowing when she saw a small tear in the fabric near her waist. "I thought for sure I''d be cut in half by now..." She sounded puzzled, and more than a little alarmed.

    Kenzo chuckled, sheathing his sword. "My sword is a Sakabat¨­, its edges are reversed. It''s used to disarm or incapacitate, not kill. That said, if I wanted to kill someone, I can still do it. It''s a matter of technique, really."

    "But you sliced through the bat earlier?"

    "Oh, I can make the blade vibrate with the beat. It resonates with the metal, and that causes it to become more...ahem, ''efficient,''" he replied matter-of-factly. "Think of it like a tuning fork."

    Axion sighed, rising to her feet. "You really are amazing. It''s frustrating."

    "Hmmm?" Kenzo arched a brow. "What''s that supposed to mean? Are you admitting defeat?"

    "Don''t misunderstand. I''m only saying that you''re strong. You fight unlike anyone I''ve ever fought before." The conviction in her voice was unmistakable. "But you''re wrong if you think I''m giving up."

    "Ara-ara, kakkoii girl! Seven minutes left then. Ganbare!" he encouraged, with a wide smile.

    The music continued, filling the stadium with its melodious rhythm, and Kenzo felt his body begin to sway along to the beat once more. He looked over at the band and flashed them a thumbs-up, signaling them to play the next track. They gave him an acknowledging nod and grinned, simultaneously adjusting the beat.

    "Right, let''s keep the music rolling!"

    <hr>

    Their exchange was a blur of motion, Kenzo''s swordplay meeting Axion''s gravity-enhanced attacks. Each strike she delivered weighed with the force of a sledgehammer, but he sidestepped her attempts deftly, matching her tempo.

    Though he avoided her gravitational pull, he chose not to strike directly; no, he would wear her down. Instead, he made use of feints, trying to gauge her reaction times and her ability to read his intentions.

    As they fought, the intensity of Axion''s blows gradually increased. Her swings came in faster, harder. The weight behind her attacks grew increasingly oppressive. With every exchange, he had to work harder to evade and defend.

    At times, when she seemed particularly determined to land a strike, her attacks became predictable. Each swing grew slower, telegraphed. Sometimes she overcommitted and left herself vulnerable to counters, allowing Kenzo to throw out quick jabs at exposed areas.

    Although he enjoyed their exchanges, they were a challenge to weather. If he faltered for even a moment, he knew he might very well find himself lying flat on the ground. But for every strike she threw, Kenzo landed three.

    "ÅÄ·´Éä (Hy¨­ Hansha)!" Kenzo shouted as Axion swung her bat with enhanced force. He struck the bat mid-swing, his sword humming, resonating with the rhythmic vibrations. The kinetic energy transferred, deflecting the bat off its intended path, missing Kenzo by a hair. The momentary shift in momentum sent Axion flying, careening uncontrollably, tumbling over the ground.

    "µÍÒôÕð„Ó (Teion Shind¨­)!" he exclaimed, slamming his sword into the ground. A deep, resonating tremor emanated from the point of impact, rippling across the dirt in waves.

    The shockwave rolled towards Axion, who seemed rooted in place. Her helmet''s eyes brightened, and she stomped her foot onto the ground, creating a small crater and creating a powerful shockwave of her own, canceling out Kenzo''s attack.

    The two shockwaves collided, producing a thunderclap that echoed through the stadium. A gust of wind erupted from the epicenter, buffeting both combatants with a fierce blast of air. Kenzo squinted, shielding his eyes from the debris kicked up by the impact.

    As the dust settled, he could see Axion standing defiantly, the bat in her hand. Her knees trembled slightly, and her breathing labored. Her suit was torn in several places, revealing bruised patches of skin. Small cuts marred her limbs, and her visor was cracked and splintered in multiple areas.

    Despite this, her helmet''s eyes gleamed brightly.

    Three more minutes. She''s stubborn. I like it.

    Kenzo approached her cautiously, his body weary but otherwise uninjured. His sword hummed softly in his grasp. Sweat dripped from his brow, and he exhaled, steadying himself.

    "We''re almost there, Axion-chan." He spoke calmly. "Three more minutes, and this''ll all be over. Think you can keep this up?"

    To his surprise, Axion nodded without hesitation. "Just try me." Her voice crackled through the static emitting from her helmet. She lifted her bat and began striding towards him.

    Kenzo matched her pace, stalking forward slowly. He gripped his sword with both hands, watching her every move.

    She lunged forward with reckless ferocity, swinging her bat in an arc. As Kenzo side-stepped the swipe, he felt the shift in gravity pulling him down once more. He resisted its force, dancing aside, stepping lightly on his toes.

    As soon as he was two meters away, he¡ª

    His eyes widened.

    The heaviness he experienced hadn''t left. Rather, it only intensified. He frowned and jumped back again, his calves burning as he strained against the pull.

    When he felt the pull lessen, he slashed at the ground, marking the spot with a shallow furrow.

    As he slid to a stop, he gazed at the scar in the dirt and its distance from Axion who, oddly enough, stood still.

    Six meters.

    Huh? Wasn''t her range only two meters?

 Chapter 45: Reach

    Axion steadied her breath, feeling the weight of the bat in her hand, its heft augmented by her power. Her eyes, though hidden behind the cracked visor of her helmet, remained locked on Kenzo. The increasing distance between them gnawed at her. Two meters, the limit of her effective control over gravity, now felt like a chasm she couldn''t bridge.

    She never really thought about her own limitations much. Just being able to leap over rooftops with the ease of a bird, make herself lighter, make things heavier, and deflect projectiles was enough.

    But it was always just that¡ªpersonal, limited to the space immediately around her.

    It didn''t matter too much when she faced the common thug, but ever since she fought against ''Cobra'' Kasumi, Axion felt the limitation acutely. Especially so, now, against another metahuman.

    He was just out of reach, always dancing away from the sphere of control. A few centimeters within her grasp, but yet, untouchable. Even when she managed to snag him for a few brief seconds, his strength allowed him to pull away.

    Reach him.

    "We''re almost there, Axion-chan." Kenzo spoke calmly. "Three more minutes, and this''ll all be over. Think you can keep this up?"

    Confidence infused Axion as she listened to Kenzo''s words.

    She wasn''t a pushover, no way.

    "Just try me." She tightened her grip on her bat.

    She strode towards him, lifting her bat and swinging with all her might.

    Reach him.

    As Kenzo side-stepped the swipe, she tried forcing him down again with her power. Again, he proved himself too strong to be affected by the force she exerted. He jumped back, retreating once more.

    Damn it! Just reach him...

    She reached out with her power, beyond the range she could maintain, stretching her mental focus outward until...

    Kenzo''s eyes widened, and he jumped back further while slashing at the ground. The blade carved a line in the dirt, marking the boundary.

    As he slid to a stop, they both gazed at the scar in the dirt.

    "Six meters?" Kenzo mused, tapping the end of his blade against the ground. "Oi, oi, oi. What''s going on here? How in the world did you manage that? Last I checked, you can only extend your power two meters outward."

    Good question. How the hell did I do that?!

    Axion didn''t respond. The truth was, she had no clue. But that wasn''t about to stop her. Not when she had come this far.

    No, she had to act fast. To keep pushing, to reach him, to win.

    The song continued playing as Kenzo slid back into position, brandishing his blade. His eyes darted between her and the marker, a curious expression crossing his features. "Still plenty of time. I want to see where this goes..." He lowered himself into a fighting stance, legs bent slightly, sword held in front of his body. "Come on. Show me what you can do."

    Axion couldn''t see his expression, but she recognized the tone of his voice. He was enjoying this, clearly. Excited to test her limits.

    And she had to admit, she was too. As the music blasted, she felt electrified.

    "Here I go," she said, taking a step forward. Then another. And another. Her body moved on its own, driven by instinct, propelled by will. She advanced on Kenzo, closing the gap between them. All while maintaining a relentless pull on him.

    Kenzo leaned back, trying to resist her gravity, but she refused to let him escape.

    She kept pressing forward, amplifying the force bit by bit. Soon, his feet began to slide across the ground. A smile crept onto Axion''s lips as she watched him struggle to remain upright.

    She lunged at him with her bat. Kenzo spun and twisted out of the way, barely managing to avoid her blow. A shower of sparks rained down where the bat collided with the ground, leaving a scorched divot in the dirt.

    But Axion wasn''t aiming to hit him; she was testing her reach. She extended her gravikinesis, trying to ensnare him once more. The familiar sensation of control tugged at the edges of her consciousness.

    Once more, Kenzo leapt back, attempting to dodge. Yet this time, her power seized him midair, pulling him back toward the ground. He slammed into the earth with a grunt, landing awkwardly on his feet. Dust billowed around him.

    As the cloud dispersed, he turned to face her again, grinning. "Yowzah, this is certainly a change of pace. No complaints here."

    "Yeah? Then try this!" Axion shouted, her voice crackling through her helmet''s speaker.

    She threw the bat at him with all her strength, but he knocked it out of the air with a single swing. As the bat sailed overhead, she used her power to redirect its momentum, causing it to curve around and strike him from the opposite direction.

    Kenzo spun, and slashed at the bat once more. The blade struck the metal shaft, producing a clang that echoed across the arena. This time, the blow caused the bat to split in half.

    That''s fine. Now she had two pieces to work with.

    Axion scooped up the broken weapon parts with her power, making them orbit her in a spiral pattern. She dashed to the space between Kenzo and the dugout that stored more bats.

    She held out her hand and called to the closest bat. It flew into her waiting palm, and she grasped it tightly, letting its weight settle in. Then she repeated the process, summoning four more bats, and placing them into orbit around her body.

    A bead of sweat ran down her brow as she maintained her hold on all four bats and the two severed pieces of the first one. This felt much more strenuous than what she did with those bullets. And yet, she pushed onward.

    Kenzo''s eyes widened slightly at this sight, but his grin remained unchanged. "Yabe~ Axion-chan''s all fired up!"

    "Oh yeah!" Axion responded, pumping herself up.

    She dashed forward, breaking into a sprint as the music rose to a crescendo. One by one, she released the bats from her orbit, sending them hurtling at Kenzo.

    "ÐýÂÉß\„Ó (Senritsu Und¨­)!" he cried out as the swarm converged upon him. His body blurred, his movements becoming a series of continuous afterimages. Every time a bat neared him, he sidestepped and parried, using the broadside of his sword to deflect the projectiles.

    After a brief moment, Kenzo skidded to a halt a dozen meters from his original position. The ground beneath his feet crumbled and shattered, small fissures spreading across the dirt.

    Axion redoubled her efforts, launching another volley of bats at him. Her helmet''s LED eyes blazed brighter as she focused her power. She felt it, the invisible tether of gravity stretching out from her, reaching farther and farther.

    No...not just feel it. Faint ripples in the air, like heat distortions, trailed the bats and their broken remains as they streaked across the field. This wasn''t her imagination. It was something she was doing.

    A sixth sense; a sense of kinesis.

    One of the bats she launched smashed into the ground near Kenzo, burying itself deep into the earth.

    With her will, the distortions around it began to flow toward her. As she guided the waves through her mind, the bat shifted, slowly rising from the dirt.

    Its battered frame floated upward, surrounded in a swirling cloud of dust and debris, and hovered beside her. Without pausing to marvel at her success, Axion stretched her senses once more, commanding the other bats.

    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    Kenzo brought his sword to bear again, slashing at the barrage of projectiles while backing away.

    Ten meters.

    The haze that accompanied the ripples in the air continued spreading further and further. With every passing moment, she felt as if she was opening herself to a new world¡ªand it was intoxicating. Like a drug. And she never wanted to stop.

    Twelve meters.

    Kenzo let loose a battle cry, striking at a spinning bat. His sword sheared through the steel bat''s thick barrel, splitting it in two. One of the broken pieces sailed through the air and stuck into the wall of the arena''s outer shell.

    Fourteen meters.

    Another bat broke apart on impact with his sword, spraying the air with shrapnel. The metal fragments slowed in the air, the kinesis drawing them in. Kenzo deflected most of the debris with his weapon, but one piece glanced his arm. His sleeve tore, and blood began trickling from a gash on his bicep. He ignored the wound, keeping his attention on the bats.

    Sixteen meters.

    A third bat shattered on Kenzo''s sword, but before its remnants even touched the ground, Axion retrieved the shards and gathered them together. With her will, she forced them into a tight, rotating sphere that orbited her, gathering speed as she reinforced its shape.

    Eighteen meters.

    Kenzo leaped back, trying to gain distance, but her reach kept extending, following him. He deflected or dodged each incoming projectile, but each successful bat cost him a step. Slowly, he backed away from Axion''s position, until he reached the edge of the arena, back pressed against the barrier.

    Twenty meters.

    The haze of kinesis reached Kenzo, engulfing him in its misty embrace. As the ripples made contact with his body, he shuddered, the force pulling at him. He planted his feet firmly into the ground, digging his heels into the soil. A thin layer of sweat glistened on his skin. He clenched his jaw, holding his breath and bracing himself.

    I got him.

    The bats that orbited around her fell to the ground as she released her hold. Her focus was consumed entirely by the task of reeling Kenzo into her web. She reached deeper into herself, digging into her reserves.

    Gravity around Kenzo warped and distorted, bending and twisting in accordance with her will. As the kinesis fully enveloped him, his body floated off the ground. He flailed and struggled, thrashing his arms and kicking his legs, trying to grab ahold of anything to anchor himself.

    She kept her grip on him, unrelenting in her efforts. She turned him upside-down, bringing him face-to-face with her. Her helmet''s LED eyes narrowed as she stared into his own.

    He smiled faintly. "I can''t move a muscle, and my vision''s going fuzzy. You win, Axion-chan." His voice wavered under the strain of her powers.

    The music in the background ended. Silence descended upon the field, punctuated only by the soft whir of machinery in the distance.

    Only then did Axion let go.

    Kenzo plummeted to the ground and crumpled to his knees. He remained that way for a few seconds, catching his breath. He glanced around at the wreckage around him, then turned back to Axion, smiling wryly. "Heh, we sure made a mess of this place, ne?"

    He got to his feet unsteadily, stumbling as he made his way over to where the original marker lay. As he hobbled along, Axion followed, noting the limp in his stride. Eventually, the pair reached the place where they started their contest. There, Kenzo straightened up, using his sword to support his weight.

    "Well done, Axion-chan," he said, leaning against the hilt. "Not many people can get the better of me like this. That last part, where you pinned me? Very clever."

    "Thanks, uhm, how are you doing? Are you okay?" Axion asked sheepishly, feeling a bit guilty for exerting so much force.

    "Me? Oh, I''m fine," he replied, waving a dismissive hand. "I''ve been through worse."

    She relaxed her shoulders, releasing the tension in her muscles. "That''s good. So...how did I do?"

    Kenzo folded his arms. "Mmn, let''s see...your reflexes and instincts are sharp. Your skills are somewhat decent. But your power...that''s no joke. I don''t think you were holding back in the beginning. So, to witness that level of growth in such a short time...scary. Really scary, actually."

    "Haha, thanks, I guess." She blushed under her helmet. "I mean, I''m not sure how I did all that myself, either. It just sorta happened."

    "Mmhm, that''s normal for us, at least. Superpowers tend to react to our subconscious desires, even if we don''t understand them. It''s like...they grow alongside us, evolving to fit our needs and wants," Kenzo explained, sheathing his sword.

    Axion cocked her head thoughtfully. "That makes sense. But still...if you''re really a Super, then why aren''t there any echoes in the alley about you being one? How come you don''t fight the gangs or do hero stuff?"

    Kenzo laughed dryly, patting her shoulder. "Ah, well, you know how the old adage goes, right? ''If you want to live well, stay away from the spotlight.'' Besides, you might not realize it yet but...this ain''t no place for no hero."

    He paused for a moment, sighing, then shook his head. "But...what you''re trying to do? What you''re trying to become? It might just work out somehow."

    Axion tilted her head to the side. "Wait, what? Is that supposed to be encouraging or insulting? You''re confusing the hell out of me right now, man!"

    "Haha, sorry. That''s probably because we''re on different wavelengths. People like us, we usually have different ways of looking at the world, you dig?"

    "Er, I guess so." Axion shrugged. "Anyway, I guess this means you gotta let me into your band, huh?"

    Kenzo blinked rapidly. "Wha? O-oh, right, that''s what this whole thing was about, isn''t it? Sorry, I kinda forgot, haha." He chuckled nervously, running a hand through his hair. "Uhh, yeah, of course. Sure, welcome aboard."

    Axion pumped her fist excitedly. "Nice!"

    Suddenly, Axion heard footsteps approaching.

    From the entrance tunnel emerged a group of a dozen or so men, all wearing matching gang attire of red and black, carrying various weapons ranging from pipe guns to knives and bats crowned with barbed wire. They swaggered across the field, eyeing Axion with predatory stares.

    Crap. The Carnage Collective, of all times? Right now?

    "Hey, hey, hey," Axion called, her voice ringing out across the stadium. "Look, I don''t wanna deal with you guys today. Just turn around and walk away, and nobody gets hurt, kay?"

    One of the thugs, a burly guy with a Mohawk, stepped forward, smirking. "Too bad, princess. We have a bounty to collect, and we ain''t leaving without it. C''mere, you little shit." He flexed his arms and cracked his knuckles menacingly. "You can''t run forever, you know that."

    Kenzo stepped between them, facing the newcomers head-on. "Oi, oi, oi. Get lost. The Colosseum''s booked today. Didn''t you idiots see the sign?"

    Mohawk scoffed and gestured for his lackeys to spread out around the area. "Stay outta this, buddy. Unless you wanna get involved." He pointed a finger gun at Kenzo. "Pew pew, bitch."

    The others snickered and whistled obscenely. One of them called, "Don''t be shy, girlie, come out here. Daddy''s gonna make you feel real good!"

    "So, what should we do, boss? Bounty said to bring her in alive. Should we play with her before we bag ''er?" another asked with a sneer.

    Kenzo narrowed his eyes, placing a hand on the hilt of his sword. "Can''t say I''m a fan of those suggestions. Oi, Axion-chan. Can you fling them all at me at once with your power?" he murmured, shifting his weight to the balls of his feet.

    Axion scanned the thugs, counting fourteen total. All of them were within twenty meters now. "I''ll give it a shot, but this might be pushing it. And what about you? You gonna be okay?"

    Kenzo winked at her, flashing a cheeky thumbs-up. "Leave everything to me. Just trust the music." With that, he turned back towards the mob and took a step forward. "Yo, assholes. Let''s make this a dance party."

    At the sound of his words, the music began again, playing at full volume from the boombox by the other band members.

    Axion reached out with her mind, enveloping the mob with a surge of gravikinesis. Her kinetic sense picked up the outlines of their bodies, the invisible tether of her power tugging at each of their forms. With a thrust of her hands, she pulled inward, dragging the entire group towards Kenzo.

    The headache that followed almost caused her to pass out.

    As they hurtled through the air, Kenzo unsheathed his sword with a flourish.

    "°ÂÁxÊÌ¤Î½»í‘Çú (¨­gi: Samurai no K¨­ky¨­kyoku)!" he yelled.

    The moment the first thug crossed the boundary, Kenzo began slashing. A pulse of sound burst from his weapon, rippling outward in waves. Each slice produced its own distinct tone, blending seamlessly with the music playing in the background.

    As the first wave collided with the group, the airborne thugs bounced up and down from the force like rubber balls, ricocheting off each other and creating an orchestra of groans and yelps. Another wave caught them midair, spinning them in dizzying circles.

    Their weapons shattered and their clothing tore and shredded to pieces. Bruises and welts formed all over their bodies as the sonic slashes pummeled them while colliding with each other.

    The onslaught didn''t relent, with Kenzo continuing to weave and bob in time with the beat.

    Soon, the mob came crashing back to the ground, one by one, creating a resounding crash that echoed across the arena. They lay in a heap, all knocked out cold and thoroughly beaten.

    The music died once more.

    Axion snapped her jaw shut as she admired the display. She hadn''t even had time to react. "Holy crap."

    Kenzo sheathed his sword and cracked his neck. "Welp, that takes care of them. Why don''t we call this a day, Axion-chan?" He beckoned to the rest of the Shunkashuto members, who entered the Colosseum at his signal.

    The band began clearing away the unconscious mobsters, carting away their ragdoll bodies via makeshift stretchers.

    Kenzo sighed, putting his hands on his hips. "Something''s gotta be done with that bounty of yours, or else these assholes will keep for ya. Sorry, Axion-chan, but you''re banned from performing with us until you get this squared away. Not that I want that, of course, but, you know how it is, ne?"

    Axion nodded understandingly, although disappointment pricked at her. "It''s okay. I get it."

    Kenzo patted the top of her helmet affectionately. "Chin up. Your time will come¡ª"

    He paused, his expression shifting to surprise for just a brief moment.

    Axion looked to see him staring intently at something in the distance behind her. Following his gaze, she only caught a glimpse of a flash of movement, darting into the shadows by the tunnel entrance.

    "¡ªsooner than you expect, I bet," he continued, quirking an eyebrow. "Anyways, take care. You should rest for a while after all that workout. It¡¯s been fun. Later, Axion-chan." He sauntered away, heading to the tunnel exit.

    "See you soon," Axion replied, watching as he disappeared into the gloom with the rest of Shunkash¨±t¨­.

 Chapter 46: Acquaintances

    Kenzo approached the Vigil''s entrance, taking in the sight of the old, rundown police station. The building itself had seen better days, with its paint faded and chipped, and its windows boarded up. The walls were covered in graffiti, and the chain-link fence surrounding the property sagged with rust.

    He hesitated as he reached the gate, contemplating turning back. But he was already here.

    After seeing the silhouette of an old acquaintance back at the Rusted Colloseum, he felt compelled to seek him out. It had been years since they last spoke, but Kenzo knew that he would be at the Vigil, just as he had always been.

    As Kenzo drew closer, he could make out the faint outline of a figure standing in the doorway.

    "Didn''t think you''d still be active, Backfire," Kenzo greeted as he neared the entrance.

    Virgil Maddox''s expression remained unchanged as he gazed impassively at Kenzo. He wore the same frayed trench coat and battered Stetson hat as he had nearly a decade ago, although Kenzo noted that his face had grown more weathered and stern. Still, his hazel eyes gleamed with the same keen intelligence.

    "Shall we speak inside, Samurai?" Virgil asked in a low, hoarse voice.

    Kenzo nodded. "Sure, why not?"

    The pair entered the building, walking down a hallway dimly lit with fluorescent lights. The interior smelled of damp wood and musty cloth. Old furniture and dusty equipment lay scattered around the corridor. They passed by an open door, revealing an office filled with file cabinets and stacks of folders, their labels faded and worn.

    Virgil led Kenzo into a conference room and motioned for him to sit. Once they both settled around the table, he finally spoke, "Been a while, hasn''t it, Kenzo? I would offer you something to drink, but, as you can see, I am woefully ill-equipped." He gestured at the empty surroundings.

    Kenzo waved a hand, chuckling. "Or you''ve already drunk ''em all. Nah, it''s all right. I don''t plan to stay long. I saw you at the Rusted Coliseum earlier, figured I''d pay you a visit." He crossed his arms, giving Virgil a serious look. "So, why were you snooping around there, of all places? Does it have anything to do with Axion?"

    Virgil tapped his fingers on the table, his lips twitching in a smile. "I''ve taken the role as her mentor, of sorts. And I have a responsibility to ensure she doesn''t land herself in any unnecessary trouble."

    Kenzo raised an eyebrow.

    Her mentor? Virgil? Huh, color me surprised. I never took him to be the babysitting type.

    "Really, now? Kukuku, sounds interesting. Must''ve piqued your interest enough for you to leave your little hole-in-the-wall. I haven''t seen you this motivated in a long time." Kenzo grinned wryly. "Does this mean you''re making a comeback, too?"

    Virgil chuckled lightly. "Now, now, that is for the future to decide, hmm?"

    Kenzo shrugged, leaning back in his seat. "Fair enough. Guess we''ll find out, one way or another. But back to business. Spill. What''s with you and Axion? Something tells me that''s not the only reason you''ve come out of hiding."

    Virgil furrowed his brow, folding his hands together. "Well, as for Axion, you may have seen a little of it yourself. She''s quite the promising talent. A rare kind, born in the slums. Yet, unlike you, she aspires to become a hero."

    Still with his not-so-subtle jabs. Asshole.

    "I remember the last words that came out of your mouth before you disappeared was ''This ain''t no place for no hero''..." Kenzo reminded with a teasing tone. "How the tables have turned, eh?"

    Virgil gave a tired sigh. "And I still stand by it. But fate seems to have a penchant for irony."

    "Huh, suppose so. Still, wouldn''t have thought you''d be the one to jump on that train." Kenzo rested his chin on a closed fist, his expression growing somber. "All this talk of heroes...it brings back memories. Good and bad. Especially when you showed up. So, this is a courtesy question: are you gonna repeat your old mistakes with Axion?"

    Virgil winced slightly. "No, I won''t. This time will be different."

    Kenzo studied the former vigilante, searching for any hint of deception. Virgil returned his stare, meeting his eyes with calm assurance. After a moment, Kenzo broke the silence.

    "Okay. I believe you. So, what''s your game plan?"

    Virgil''s posture relaxed. "At the moment, it involves working with her. Training her, teaching her, guiding her...whatever she requires. From there, it depends on what direction she chooses to take, and where she intends to lead it."

    "In other words, you''re going to teach her to dance to your tune?" Kenzo asked dryly.

    Virgil scowled, glaring at him. "Not my tune. Hers."

    Kenzo leaned back, giving Virgil an appraising look. "Hmm, that''s a big promise coming from you. Make sure you keep it this time."

    Virgil held Kenzo''s gaze. "I intend to."

    The two sat in silence for a moment, neither backing down from the other''s intense stare.

    This wasn''t exactly the reunion Kenzo expected, but he understood Virgil''s reticence. The two of them shared a history¡ªone that wasn''t necessarily pleasant, especially towards the end. Trust needed to be re-established; their old wounds weren''t forgotten. Still, he wanted to believe that Virgil was sincere. Maybe, after all this time, he''d found a new purpose in Axion.

    But old habits die hard.

    One of the main reasons Virgil failed to make a lasting impact in the slums was due to his inflexibility and unwillingness to bend to the whims of circumstance. His principles were absolute, regardless of the situation. His idealized vision of justice clashed too greatly with the realities of the slums. But the biggest issue was his draconian methods.

    When dealing with gangs, he wasn''t shy about using lethal force. But in a place where the line between ''villain'' and ''victim'' often blurred, Virgil never truly understood where to draw that line. As a result, he alienated everyone, including people who had joined him from the start, believing that they, too, could change the slums for the better.

    People like Kenzo.

    It also didn''t help that Virgil''s preferred method of interrogation involved torture. Some of the things he did...no amount of justification could excuse. That was when their relationship began to sour, and the cracks in their partnership began to show.

    The slums operated by its unwritten laws, and the rules within had to be bent and twisted in order to survive. Virgil simply refused to do so, insisting on upholding his rigid code. Eventually, he became disillusioned and abandoned his crusade, choosing instead to seclude himself and fade into the background, slowly disappearing from the memory of the slums.

    The pair exchanged a long, wordless glance, with Kenzo eventually breaking the stalemate with a laugh.

    "Aaah, too heavy for me. I can''t stand the dramatic pauses, man. Say what you need to say, and let''s get over it. No point in stewing in the past. Been there, done that." He slapped his palm on the table. "C''mon, old timer. Chop-chop. No sense in beating around the bush."

    Virgil pursed his lips and nodded. "Alright. Straight to the point, then. There are two things I want to ask of you. First, I need your help in finding out who put the bounty on her. If I can remove the root of the problem, the rest should follow suit."

    Kenzo whistled lowly. "The bounty on Axion? I don''t mind, but that''s gonna be a tough one. It could be from one of the syndicates, or from an outsider. Whoever it is, they''re offering two million ChitCreds or the chance to get into the Metropolis as a citizen. The rewards themselves are high enough to stir the pot. Every gang in the slums is clamoring for a shot at it."

    Virgil frowned. "I had a hunch, but I wasn''t sure. Nonetheless, I need you to gather more information and report to me. Even the smallest detail can help with tracking them down."

    Kenzo clicked his tongue. "Tsk, fine. I''ll see what I can do. For old-time''s sake, I guess. What''s the second thing you wanted to ask?"

    Virgil''s features darkened. "It''s about the Shiver drug that''s recently been circulating through the slums. Have you heard about it?"

    Kenzo grimaced.

    Shiver. It hadn''t been too long since he heard about that stuff. A nasty bit of work. Packs a stronger punch than the usual narcotics and psychotropics floating around the slums. It caused users to go berserk after a while, not to mention it comes with some nasty withdrawal symptoms.

    A real pain in the ass.

    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    Kenzo rubbed the nape of his neck uneasily. "Yeah, I have. It''s gotten to be a real issue lately. Why?"

    "Me and Axion stopped a drug trade not too long ago. The Neon Vipers were getting their supply from a guy called ''The Mad Chemist''¡ªan alias for Salvatore. He''s a mastermind who deals with experimental drugs, most of them designed to do god knows what. If you''ve ever heard of Adrenomancers, that''s his handiwork."

    Oi, oi, oi! What the hell is all that? Adreno-what-now? Never heard of those types before. Sounds like a bunch of nonsense. Then again, if Virgil''s talking about them, there''s gotta be some truth to it.

    "Huh, not ringing any bells, I''m afraid. But this Mad Chemist...he''s the one dealing the Shiver, huh?"

    "The Neon Vipers are the ones dealing it, but Salvatore is providing the product. We''ve stopped one shipment, but there''s likely to be more."

    So, the Neon Vipers were the ones who¡ªshit, that means¡­

    He ruffled his hair in frustration.

    Damn. Not looking forward to that talk. Oh well, that''s a problem for another day. Best not let Virgil notice¡­

    Kenzo arched an eyebrow. "So, you think this Mad Chemist is up to something big here?"

    Virgil gave a slow nod. "Yes. Based on what I''ve uncovered, the drug trade is just the tip of the iceberg. He has his eyes set on the slums. Whatever his real plan is, it needs to be stopped."

    "What are you proposing, then?"

    "Cooperation. Meaning I need your help, Kenzo. Like before, only this time, without the conflict. Just mutual assistance." Virgil held his gaze steadily, waiting for his reply.

    Helping to find out who put a bounty on Axion was one thing. Now, this? Working together, with Virgil? Again?

    There wasn''t a simple answer to give. A part of him resented the idea, given their history. Another part of him¡ªa smaller voice buried beneath his cynicism and bitterness¡ªfelt nostalgic at the thought. Regardless, his skepticism won out in the end.

    "Oi, this isn''t a good joke. You really expect me to just agree, after everything? And now, after ten years? Your timing couldn''t be worse, old man. This is something you should try with your new protege, if you can trust her with that kind of weight on her shoulders."

    Virgil shook his head. "Not yet. Axion is still new to all this, and she has a lot to learn. Besides, this concerns her as well, so her involvement goes without saying. However, I also feel that, given your extensive experience in the slums, you''ll be a valuable asset to our cause. There''s no one else I can turn to with this. And you''re familiar with how the gangs operate. Better than me, in fact."

    Kenzo gritted his teeth.

    There he goes with his manipulative bullshit. He''s laying on the guilt-tripping thick, with a side of praise. Typical Backfire. Ugh, that damn silver tongue of his. Gets me every time.

    "You know I don''t agree with your way of doing things," Kenzo reminded. "Even if I agree to help, there''ll be conditions. Just so you''re aware. Better to lay things out clearly from the beginning."

    "Such as?"

    Kenzo exhaled slowly. "I don''t want you killing anyone unnecessarily. Or interrogating anyone, for that matter. If you can''t promise that, then forget about me being a part of this whole thing. My way or the highway, as they say." He narrowed his eyes at the vigilante, crossing his arms stubbornly. "You got that, Virg?"

    Virgil''s nostrils flared at the nickname, but he grudgingly inclined his head. "I can agree to that, but if circumstances call for it, I make no promises as to what actions I may choose to take. And when the time comes, I''m not above allowing myself to become a...necessary evil."

    "The ends justify the means, right?" Kenzo muttered with a humorless smirk. "Well, I guess that''s the best I can get out of you. Fine, I''m in. You win. But you owe me big. We clear?"

    He jabbed a finger in the direction of the vigilante''s face. "Don''t screw this up, Virgil. Last thing I want is another repeat of the past. Once was enough for a lifetime, for me, anyway. If I find you crossing that line, it won''t end with just me walking away. Got that?"

    Kenzo tapped the hilt of his sword pointedly, making his meaning clear.

    Virgil''s mouth twitched into a rare smile. "Crystal. Well, now that we''re allies again, let me fill you in on what I''ve discovered so far..."

    <hr>

    "What do you think Virgil wants?" Quinn asked, nudging Fii with his elbow.

    Fii shrugged, scratching the back of her neck nervously. "Beats me. I hope he isn''t mad at me or anything. I don''t think I messed up on anything recently."

    She fiddled with the zipper of her jacket. "Maybe it''s something to do with the bounty on my head. He said he would help me deal with that, right? Hopefully, that''s it."

    Quinn sucked in air between his teeth. "I dunno, Fii, something tells me that''s not all of it. If he also asked you to bring me along, then he probably has something bigger in mind. Something that requires all of us."

    That''s a good point. But what else could it be? The only thing Fii could think of was the bounty on her head or the Shiver drug. That was what occupied Virgil''s attention lately.

    Wait...

    Maybe he found out about yesterday''s incident at the Rusted Coliseum? Uh-oh.

    The pair made their way through the winding alleys and shanty towns, heading towards the derelict police station. As they approached the entrance, Fii felt her nerves tightening in her stomach. She tried to suppress the feeling, but it lingered in the back of her mind.

    Fii glanced to her side and spotted a familiar face strolling leisurely towards the Vigil''s entrance Walking from a different direction.

    "Edith?" Fii called out.

    The blonde quack doctor perked up as Fii jogged over to meet her, with Quinn following closely behind.

    "Fii? Did Virgil ask you to come too?" Edith inquired, eyebrow lifting in surprise.

    Fii blinked. "Uh, yeah. Same with you?"

    The three stood awkwardly in front of the Vigil''s entrance, shifting glances at each other.

    Edith looked at Quinn. "And you are...?"

    "My name''s Quinn. Fii and I are, uh, friends," Quinn explained sheepishly, glancing at Fii for approval. Fii gave him a thumbs up, smiling.

    Edith examined him, and then her eyes widened. "Ah, you. Now I remember. You''re the one who found out her secret after she saved you." She stuck a hand out towards him. "I''m Edith. Doctor Edith, but just Edith is fine."

    Quinn took Edith''s offered hand and gave it a firm shake. "Nice to meet you, Edith. Are you a friend of Fii''s too?"

    "In a way, yes. I''m her doctor and benefactor."

    Quinn''s eyes flickered between Edith and Fii, his confusion evident. "Oh, really? So you guys also met each other through...coincidence?" He shifted his eyes over at Fii. "Like you and I did?"

    Fii avoided Quinn''s imploring stare, choosing to feign nonchalance instead. "Yeah, kinda. Sorta. She''s the one that encouraged me to be a Superhero in the first place." She scratched the side of her head self-consciously. "I wouldn''t have gotten this far without her, to be honest."

    Edith coughed softly. "Moving on from idle chatter, shouldn''t we get in there? Virgil is waiting."

    The trio shuffled together and entered through the gate, walking along the gravel path leading to the building. Once inside, they followed the sound of voices echoing through the corridors.

    Fii pushed open the door to Virgil''s office and stepped inside, greeted by an unexpected sight. Seated comfortably in his chair, legs propped up on the desk, was none other than Kenzo himself.

    "Yo," he waved lazily.

    "Kenzo?! Why''s he here?" Fii blurted, startled.

    Edith narrowed her eyes, glaring at Virgil who was standing off to the side, leaning against a wall. "I don''t like where this is going, Virgil." She walked over to an empty chair and sat down, her expression darkening. "Come sit, Fii. Seems like we''re in for a long, uncomfortable discussion."

    Fii cast a puzzled look at Edith, before turning towards Quinn and motioning him to join her.

    Virgil cleared his throat loudly. "If I could have your undivided attention for a moment, that would be much appreciated." His cool, almost bored drawl betrayed a hint of annoyance. "I''ll get straight to the point. I decided to have Kenzo join us. As of today, he''ll be cooperating with us."

    No way! Woah! This is the best day ever!¡ªWait, does that mean he knows that I''m Axion?

    Fii stole a quick peek at Kenzo. He seemed unperturbed, relaxed as ever, with the same lazy grin plastered across his face. But the light reflected in his eyes conveyed a different message entirely. He was watching her closely, appraising her, and observing her reaction.

    Edith pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. "First you did this with Quinn, and now him? Virgil, I thought we discussed this. You can''t just add new members whenever you like." She threw him a glare. "Especially without consulting us first! Just how many more people will you reveal her identity to?!"

    The room fell silent.

    Fii''s eyes darted between the two, uncertain as to whom she should address her questions to. Meanwhile, Quinn sank deeper into his chair, shrinking under Edith''s harsh scrutiny.

    After a moment, Kenzo spoke. "I don''t think we''ve met before, lady. Not that I recall, at least. Lemme introduce myself. The name''s Kenzo. Me and Virgil go way back. Had a falling out after...well, that doesn''t matter anymore. Point is, we''ve agreed to set the past aside for now and work together, just like before. Can''t say I like the old coot too much, but we have the same goals, more or less."

    The corner of Edith''s left eye twitched as she continued to level her heated glare at Virgil. "And you haven''t told us about this, why exactly?"

    Virgil merely shrugged in response, a gesture that seemed to set Edith''s temper even more aflame.

    Fii inched her chair closer to the increasingly frazzled doctor. "I think what Edith''s trying to say is, uh, I''d like an explanation too. He did admit that he was originally thinking of fighting me to get the bounty money."

    Edith snapped her head over to Fii. "He what?!"

    Even Virgil raised an eyebrow at this. "Is this true, Kenzo?"

    Kenzo quickly shook his head, throwing his hands in the air in mock surrender. "Hey, I ain''t gonna lie. Yeah, that was the plan at first. But she won me over, alright? Call it a change of heart. I had doubts about her before, but after speaking with her and sparring, I changed my mind. So here I am."

    Quinn tilted his head to the side, staring intently at Kenzo. "Sparring? What do you mean by sparring?"

    Fii leaned over and whispered into his ear, explaining, "I had a sort of duel with him at the Rusted Colosseum. I barely won, by the way, but he''s crazy good with a sword."

    "I heard that," Kenzo murmured, before flashing a crooked smirk. "But yeah, she beat me fair and square. I was quite impressed."

    Quinn whispered back to Fii, "Why would a normal guy want to fight you?"

    "He''s actually a metahuman like me," Fii answered.

    "Wait, what?!" Quinn jumped to his feet. "He''s also a metahuman?"

    Edith, still glaring at Virgil, was too distracted by her anger to acknowledge Quinn''s sudden outburst. Instead, she folded her arms together and let out a long, drawn-out sigh. "Virgil, just tell me what''s going on in that whiskey-filled head of yours. I''m starting to have some serious concerns here. Where is this headed?"

    Virgil pushed himself away from the wall, pacing over to the center of the room. He paused to sweep his gaze around the group. "Something big is happening in the slums, and the pieces are already moving into place. We need more people on our side. Trustworthy people, who can be depended upon. The two of you"¡ªhe motioned to Quinn and Kenzo¡ª"are among those few."

    He turned his attention to Edith. "Since Salvatore is involved in this, we can only assume his involvement with the Shiver drug is likely a precursor to something larger. Something involving those Adrenomancer elites of his. We need all the help we can get."

    Edith visibly deflated at his words, shoulders drooping in resignation.

    Fii leaned over to whisper into Quinn''s ear once again. "Who''s Salvatore?"

 Chapter 47: Growth and Motivation

    As the monitor hummed to life, Edith adjusted her glasses and leaned back in her chair. She couldn''t help but stare in awe as the footage from Fii''s recent battle played out on the screen.

    The girl''s abilities had always shown promise, but it seemed she had taken a significant leap overnight. As she watched Fii manipulate objects with her power from afar, Edith couldn''t help but wonder what had changed. Was it the stress of the fight? The music? The adrenaline? The fact that she was facing another metahuman? Or perhaps some combination thereof.

    The footage played on as Edith glanced at the metrics scrolling by on the side of the screen. Fii''s heart rate and brain activity were both elevated, but that was expected given the circumstances. What interested her more was the readings from the suit. The sensors within the garment were designed to analyze the kinetics and gravitations of Fii''s powers in real-time, allowing Edith to indirectly track the ebb and flow of her abilities as she fought.

    And by analyzing the data, she had determined exactly where Fii''s range of influence extended to¡ªtwo meters around herself.

    But according to the numbers, Fii''s range had increased tenfold from the beginning to the end of the fight. Twenty meters, all in the span of several minutes. Such an extraordinary advancement in power was unheard of, and even Edith had trouble believing her eyes.

    Edith tapped on her keyboard and cross-referenced Fii''s current power level with the past, searching for signs of any kind of pattern in her growth. Any change at all might be relevant. Anything to figure out why or how Fii had made this drastic jump.

    After some digging, all the records indicated that she had exhibited greater control over her ability since fighting against the Neon Viper leader. But Kasumi wasn''t a metahuman.

    If that was the case, then could that mean...?

    Fii entered the training room, clad in her bodysuit. She looked over at the observation window and waved at Edith, who returned the gesture. She had called Fii over earlier to test her powers and run more tests on her abilities.

    "You''ve made quite a lot of progress since yesterday''s spar, haven''t you?" Edith asked as the younger girl approached. She motioned to the video feeds displayed on the projector on Fii''s side, replaying various clips from her most recent fight.

    Fii nodded excitedly. "Yeah, I guess so! The feeling during that last part, when I pushed my range out? It was incredible. And I just felt so strong. Everything around me seemed malleable and responsive. Honestly, it was overwhelming at first, but it felt natural. Almost like an extension of myself. I didn''t want to stop at all!"

    "Hm. Did you feel any strain on your body? Your TFSI readings were stable at around 0.382 at the peak of your output."

    Fii scratched her nose sheepishly. "Eh, maybe a bit at the beginning? But moving those bats around and picking things up after that point didn''t feel much harder than before, and my headache afterward was more like a hangover than anything serious."

    Edith nodded to herself. Those results coincided with the previous tests.

    "Now, how about trying to replicate that in this chamber? Give me a demonstration, Fii." She leaned forward and rested her chin on her hand.

    "You got it!" Fii responded enthusiastically.

    Fii assumed her usual pose as she concentrated her power.

    Various training tools and weights levitated around the room. As she lifted more and more items, Edith noted Fii''s posture and stance: Relaxed. Comfortable. Casual¡ªa stark contrast from the girl''s rigid and awkward stance from her past trials.

    Meanwhile, the digital readout of Fii''s TFSI stabilized around 0.255, well within the safety limits.

    "Can you move them around?" Edith asked as the objects floated freely above the floor.

    "Easy." Fii casually maneuvered the equipment around the chamber. She made the floating objects revolve around her, creating complex patterns and trajectories while maintaining a consistent TFSI throughout.

    "Anything else you''d like me to try?" she asked after several minutes passed. Her voice held a hint of smugness as she spoke.

    Edith smirked in response, typing rapidly on her console. "Oh, I can think of a couple of things. But first, was there anything else different or peculiar that you experienced during the fight with Kenzo? Aside from the increase in control and range, I mean."

    Fii rubbed her chin, considering the question carefully. "Well, there was this weird ''sixth sense'' I had, I guess. Like...there were these faint ripples surrounding the things I was affecting? Maybe?"

    Edith perked up at that statement. Sixth sense? Ripples?

    "Could you describe the phenomenon further? As precisely as possible, if you can," Edith asked.

    "Hmm...it''s hard to put into words, but...okay, here''s what I mean," Fii answered. She pointed at a single dumbbell floating in front of her. "Right now, I can kinda see something like...a ripple in the air around this. It''s like a heat haze during the summer, but much fainter unless I''m focusing on objects."

    As she waved her hand around, the dumbbell followed suit, drifting along with her movements. She continued, "The ripples tend to flow in one direction¡ªdown to the ground. I''m guessing that''s the direction of the Earth''s gravity. When I focus, those ripples shift to whichever direction I want the object to move."

    Fii directed the dumbbell to orbit around her, tracing a slow, steady path in a circle.

    Edith''s eyes widened.

    Fascinating. So Fii had developed a visual cue that helped guide her manipulations? Could she have created this herself, or had this sensory capability all along and not noticed until recently? Regardless, this discovery was astounding.

    There were very few metahumans in the database that possessed sixth senses associated with their powers. For Edith to add another specimen to the registry would be a significant advancement in her research. She jotted the notes down on a tablet before addressing Fii again.

    "How about the range of your power, Fii? How does that affect your awareness of those ripples? What is the effect on your body if you push yourself to expand your range?" Edith probed, watching Fii''s movement and expression. She needed to assess whether this phenomenon affected Fii''s physical state and vice versa.

    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    "Well...let''s see..." Fii muttered as she resumed her exercises. She placed her hands on her hips and closed her eyes in concentration. The dumbbell circled around her a few times faster as her brow furrowed. She gradually raised her hands as the weight began to spin faster, accelerating to a blur.

    The readout of her TFSI only increased to 0.283, still well within the safe range.

    "My head''s starting to hurt a little. Nothing serious though," she explained. "The training room is kinda small so I don''t know if I''ll be able to push my limits here. Oh, yesterday I tried pushing further out, but I just sorta hit a wall at twenty meters. I think the ripples start to fade out around that range too. I don''t see them as clearly anymore."

    Edith typed in her observations, making special note of the discomfort Fii described. Her assumption on the range was interesting. Perhaps the sensation of ''noise,'' as she described it, faded when her control over the ripples grew less precise? Was that the factor limiting her range, or did she lack sufficient energy to sustain her powers over longer distances? Or something else entirely?

    A twenty-meter limit did seem disappointing. But with such a substantial increase, she had already come leaps and bounds beyond what Edith had estimated her to be capable of. Perhaps some aspects of this power relied on instinctual guidance, rather than conscious effort. And perhaps in time, Fii could learn to fully unlock the potential of her power.

    That last thought intrigued her. Twenty meters was probably just another soft limit¡ªa boundary to be pushed further as her power evolved.

    Some metahumans in the upper echelons of the power spectrum had a similar growth pattern as Fii, but the circumstances of their growth varied considerably.

    Edith''s eyes flickered to the journal article that lay on her desk, tucked beside her keyboard: ''Metahumans: The Unfinished Genome.'' She drummed her fingers on the edge of the table, lost in contemplation.

    Eventually, she sighed and cleared her throat. "Very good. That''s enough for now, Fii. I want to run a few more tests later, but I need you to recover for the rest of the evening. Be sure to relax and maintain a balanced diet. Take whatever you want from the fridge and call me when you wake up tomorrow."

    Fii let out a long yawn, stretching her limbs before waving at the observation window. "Alright, alright. Goodnight, Edith."

    The objects floating in the air drifted back to the floor as she exited the chamber.

    Edith continued to stare at the screens, mentally reviewing the gathered data. She jotted down the key points and attached them to the log files. Tomorrow, she planned to observe the power again with fresh eyes, paying closer attention to the sensory phenomena Fii described.

    No equipment she possessed could measure or detect whatever ''noise'' Fii referred to. Even when Edith first detected Fii''s ability, she only identified obvious gravitational fluctuations within the facility.

    She had to make do with what she had. No prior research existed for Gravikinesis, and even scientific research on gravity itself hadn''t advanced beyond trying to unite Einstein''s general relativity and quantum mechanics. The detection of gravitons remained an impossible dream.

    Nevertheless, Edith had a hunch Fii''s ability worked on a scale beyond simple manipulation of that fundamental force of nature.

    As the data collection concluded, Edith powered down the system and rose from her seat. She felt satisfied with the progress they made, but she knew she wouldn''t find any answers tonight.

    For now, a hot bath and a stiff drink sounded quite appealing.

    <hr>

    The late afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows as Fii curled up on the couch with a book. She had spent the past few hours buried in a classic fantasy novel, wrapped in the comfort of its story. It felt good to escape into a world where she wasn''t being chased or fighting thugs, where she didn''t have to worry about keeping her guard up every second of the day.

    In the quiet of the Gilded Library, she found solace. Here, she was free to sink into the pages, letting her imagination carry her far away. Textbooks about Newtonian physics and Calculus sat untouched, replaced by fictional tales of magic and adventure.

    Her favorite genre was epic fantasy: stories set in imaginary worlds filled with dragons, elves, and ancient prophecies. The richly woven storylines drew her in, transporting her to a world beyond the dreary slums.

    And the characters! She loved imagining herself as the plucky protagonist, traversing the wilds and battling evil with her sword.

    On the table, her pile of novels grew steadily. Every time she finished one, she''d immediately find another, scouring the shelves for anything that caught her attention.

    As she flipped through the pages, her mind wandered to her own life¡ªthe life of a superhero.

    So far, the only foes she battled were low-life gangsters and thugs. Although she relished the feeling of triumph she earned over every victory, she wished for something more meaningful. She dreamed of a true nemesis.

    ''Cobra'' Kasumi was the closest she got to a rival, but even that meeting left her frustrated. Granted, Fii barely won that encounter, but if they were to meet again, Fii knew she''d come out ahead. After all, she wasn''t the same girl she used to be. Not anymore.

    As she closed the book, Orion hobbled over to her, clutching a stack of comics in his hands. His eyes twinkled with amusement as he flashed a wry smile. "You''re a fast reader, aren''t ya?"

    Fii grinned sheepishly as she gazed at the mountain of books piled on the table. "Guess so." She had gotten a bit carried away, but she couldn''t resist.

    "So, what have you been reading?" Orion asked, pointing at the worn covers. He propped his cane against the armrest and lowered himself onto the couch opposite her. He winced as he moved, clutching his lower back.

    She grabbed the top book from the pile and handed it to him. "Mostly fantasy stuff. Have you read this?"

    He took the book, examining the cover and flipping through the pages. "Yes, yes, I have. A great read, I must say. Did you enjoy it?"

    She nodded vigorously, taking back the book and setting it aside. "I loved it! I''m so hooked. It''s really neat that you have all these books in the library. Most of the kids in my neighborhood can''t read. I wish they could experience this too. Stories can take you places, you know?"

    Orion stroked his beard. "That, they can. The best adventures start with a single step. Or a page. Heh, heh, heh." He chuckled to himself, his eyes distant with recollection. After a moment, he turned to Fii with a curious look. "You could try and teach them, you know. You could teach them to read, like what Dr. Edith did for you."

    "What?" Fii blinked at the suggestion.

    Her? Teaching others how to read? The idea hadn''t occurred to her before, but it made sense. Fii didn''t just learn to read by herself. Edith taught her how to read and write properly, instead of her typical streetwise approach.

    The only problem: She still had no formal teaching experience whatsoever. Would she be any good at it? Orion seemed to think so.

    Fii considered the thought, tapping her fingers against the armrest. "That sounds...like a nice idea. But how am I supposed to do that? I don''t even know where to start!"

    "Well, you have time. And this library can provide the material. Dr. Edith can provide some pointers. It''ll be fine. I''m sure you can manage it," Orion reassured her. "You''re a smart young lady, you''ll do fine."

    Fii exhaled deeply and relaxed. "Well...okay. I''ll give it a try. Can I bring them here for the lessons?"

    "Sure, that''s fine with me. I have a spare room out back that you can use as a classroom. But don''t let them break anything, okay?" Orion said, chuckling to himself as he wagged a finger at her. "If they do, you''ll be responsible for fixing them."

    Fii pouted, resting her head against the back cushion. "Fine, fine. I can do that."

    She mused to herself.

    Teach someone how to read and write. A new task, a new challenge. She didn''t need to be Axion for this, either. Just Fii.

    It was nice to do something different and not have to worry about protecting her identity or saving the day. Being Axion gave her purpose and excitement. But just being herself allowed her to pursue other things she enjoyed doing. Things that didn''t involve violence or heroics.

    Plus, it was something useful¡ªsomething that could improve people''s lives for the better outside of using her powers to solve problems.

    That last thought brightened her mood. If she wanted to do something bigger, being Axion wasn''t the only way to accomplish that goal. "I''m gonna head back for the evening, Mr. Orion. Thanks for the books."

    "Not a problem, young lady. Take care of yourself." Orion winked, giving her a two-fingered salute. "Be careful, now. Stay out of trouble, you hear?"

    "Thanks, and don''t worry, I will." Fii waved goodbye and exited the library, descending the steps with a bounce in her stride.

    Teaching might be really fun.

    Ah! Maybe I could get Quinn to help!

 Chapter 48: Hovering Close, Falling Softly

    In the cluttered expanse of Quinn''s workshop, the faint whirr of a drill and the rhythmic clangs of metal scraping against metal rang out. He knelt by a workbench, his goggles propped high on his forehead as he tinkered with an assortment of gadgets and parts scattered haphazardly around him. He paused to wipe his grease-covered hands on his overalls before turning back to his project.

    Above him, Fii drifted lazily about, floating like a cloud through the air. She kicked her legs and spun around, enjoying the weightlessness. She occasionally bounced off the ceiling and back to the center of the room, her arms outstretched to catch the various tools that Quinn tossed at her.

    As he worked, Quinn listened to Fii''s animated rambling, offering the occasional grunt or hum in acknowledgment.

    "Kenzo! Can you believe it?" she exclaimed, her voice echoing slightly off the cluttered walls. She tossed a screwdriver back at him. "He''s actually going to work with us!"

    Quinn caught the tool and bent back over his workbench, continuing his repairs. He gestured vaguely at a toolbox, which Fii floated over to. She opened the lid, and he rummaged around for a moment before pulling out a wrench.

    "And he''s invited me to join his band for a concert, too. Well, as Axion, anyways. But still. Isn''t that amazing?!" she gushed. "I''m so psyched! This is crazy. It''s like a dream come true!"

    "Yeah, I heard you the first ten times," Quinn muttered, rolling his eyes. He straightened, leaning back against his stool to examine his work. Then he clicked his tongue and set his tool aside. Apparently, he didn''t need it.

    Fii poked her tongue out at him. "Hey, c''mon! This is the biggest opportunity I''ve ever had. Plus, I''ve always wanted to perform at the Tower of Songs. I can''t wait." She giggled, clutching her knees to her chest as she spun herself upside down. "And Kenzo''s so cool. The way he fights is, like, insane! Have you seen him use his power before? It''s super cool! When we fought, I¡ª"

    Quinn sighed loudly, cutting her off mid-sentence. He glanced up, a forced smile on his face. "Yeah, I bet he''s something else. Now, are we done talking about that guy?"

    "Well...yeah, I guess so," Fii responded. She flipped upright and stuck to the ceiling, staring at him. She studied him for a moment, noting his irritated expression, then floated over to him. She peered over his shoulder curiously. "Are you mad or something, Quinn? Did I do something wrong?"

    Quinn grunted and shook his head. "No, nothing. I''m not angry. But, uhh, could you grab me a hex wrench over there?" he said, pointing to a corner of the workshop.

    "Really? Because you seem¡ª"

    "Wrenches. Please."

    Fii stared at him, her lips pursed, but didn''t press the issue further. She flitted across the room to collect the wrenches, placing them on the workbench beside him. "Here. Hey, do you need any help with that, by the way? I wanna learn how to fix things, like you." She gazed at him hopefully. "I can do more than float tools around, you know. I can use tools too. Let me prove it."

    Quinn paused mid-drill to raise a brow at her. "Uhh, I dunno, Fii. This isn''t exactly your style. Too many tools and parts. I don''t want you accidentally cutting off a finger or something."

    "It''ll be fine, trust me. Please?" she begged. She clasped her hands together, staring at him with puppy dog eyes. "I promise I won''t do anything stupid. Pretty please?"

    He sighed, shaking his head. "Look, I just...ugh, okay. Alright, fine, I''m convinced. Uhh, you see this?" He gestured to a disassembled radio, its inner circuitry exposed to the open air. "It''s busted. See if you can fix it."

    Fii leaned closer to the device, staring intently at its internal components. She noted the tangled mess of wires and loose screws, the dusty old speakers, the dented frame...she swallowed hard, her stomach lurching. "Umm, Quinn? How do I do that?"

    "Just follow my instructions and you''ll be fine. It''s a learning process," Quinn replied. "Now, here''s what you do..."

    Together, they painstakingly disentangled the wires, resoldered the loose connections, and replaced the worn-out speaker. Fii handled the delicate tasks with care, her tongue sticking out from concentration. Meanwhile, Quinn instructed and guided her throughout the repair, stepping in only when necessary.

    In due time, the radio came together, piece by piece, until finally they reconnected the power cord to the socket. The dial lit up with a pleasant green glow as music crackled from its tinny speakers.

    The song playing was a jazz standard, a familiar melody that Fii recognized from the streets. One of those songs that never seemed to get old. As she listened to the music, she turned to Quinn, a broad smile spreading across her face. "We did it!" she squealed.

    "Yup, we did. Not bad, rookie." Quinn smirked, wiping his brow with a rag. "Nice work."

    The two exchanged a high-five before breaking out into laughter. They sat side-by-side at the workbench, enjoying the music for a while, simply listening in companionable silence.

    Eventually, Quinn cleared his throat, glancing sidelong at Fii. "Sorry I snapped at you earlier," he said, running his fingers through his hair sheepishly. "It''s...complicated. I''m not mad at you, but I get kinda annoyed by Kenzo sometimes."

    "Oh? Why is that?" Fii asked, cocking her head.

    Quinn shrugged his shoulders. "Eh, don''t worry about it. Anyway, it''s cool that your power is growing or whatever. So you can affect things farther away now? And you can float around too?"

    Fii nodded, gesturing toward herself. "Yeah, it''s pretty awesome. My range has expanded, and I can kind of see this weird gravity stuff now, or something. It''s hard to describe." She crossed her arms, deep in thought. "I didn''t expect that to happen when I fought Kenzo, but it worked out in the end. I feel a lot stronger. You should''ve seen it. It was awesome."

    "Hm. Cool, I guess." Quinn commented dryly. He pulled out a cigarette and lit it, taking a long drag. A thin stream of smoke curled around his head as he exhaled. "Hey, can you make me float around too? I wanna know what it feels like."

    "Sure. Hold on, okay? Don''t freak out."

    Suddenly, they both began to drift gently toward the ceiling. Fii grinned at Quinn, holding him steady as they slowly rose into the air. He gasped, clinging to her arm, his eyes wide with shock.

    "You good? I gotcha." Fii teased. She bumped his shoulder playfully and stuck her tongue out at him. "Come on, this is easy. Relax."

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    "Woah woah woah, hang on. I...I, uh, yeah. I''m fine, I''m good. I''m all good." Quinn stammered as he shifted about in place, trying to find his balance. The cigarette slipped from his hand, floating upward in a spiral as he reached frantically to retrieve it. He grumbled as he swatted at the errant stick.

    Fii laughed as they drifted around the room. "See? We''re flying, Quinn. It''s fun, right?" she teased, spinning them around in a lazy circle. The motion sent his hat toppling off, spinning through the air. She giggled as she watched him frantically try to grab for it, his limbs flailing about aimlessly. "Gotta admit, though, I was hoping you''d scream or something."

    Quinn flushed and punched her in the shoulder lightly. "Oh, shut up! You freaked me out!" he whined. "Hey, don''t make me fall."

    "Relax, dude. I''d never drop you."

    Fii and Quinn floated through the air, suspended above the workshop floor. They stared down at the ground, their hair hanging loosely about their heads. Fii''s short locks drifted gently, swaying with each movement, while Quinn''s shaggy hair stood on end in all directions. He squinted up at her with a playful glare and poked her in the side with his foot.

    She retaliated, poking him back until their impromptu tickle fight devolved into a full-blown wrestling match in midair. In between the giggling and laughing, they hovered about, play-fighting without a care in the world. Their grappling soon brought them close enough to touch the ceiling above. With a shove from Fii, they smacked their heads against the paneled surface, bouncing off with a dull thud.

    Quinn rubbed his scalp gingerly, scowling at her, who only chuckled in response. She flashed him a cheeky grin, sticking her tongue out. He rolled his eyes at her, but a faint smile tugged at his lips.

    They continued their slow drift around the room, floating lazily in the air. As the music played, Quinn let his eyes shut for a bit. He savored the warmth of the sunlight streaming through the window, the faint scent of motor oil and solder, the gentle rustle of fabric as they bumped into each other.

    After a while, he broke the silence with a chuckle. "This is kinda nice. It''s peaceful."

    "See? Told ya." Fii nudged him, grinning impishly. "Being Axion is great and all, but I like these moments too."

    Quinn nodded, his expression thoughtful. He glanced at Fii and smiled. "Yeah. Me too."

    They stayed that way for some time before finally descending back to the floor. As they landed, Quinn stumbled slightly, wobbling on his feet. He leaned against the workbench and took a deep breath. "Whew! Okay, that was...that was something else."

    Fii giggled as she touched down beside him. She adjusted her shirt and ran a hand through her hair, brushing out the tangles. "How''d you like it, Quinn? Awesome, right?"

    "Definitely. But next time, I''m putting on a helmet, though."

    "Haha, fair enough. Wanna do something else?"

    "Hmm...Oh! I just remembered something. I''ve been working on something for you." Quinn hurried over to a closet and flung it open. He rummaged inside until he found what he sought, pulling out a pair of roller skates with amber wheels and a sleek black chassis. "Ta-da! What do you think?"

    Fii walked over and picked up the skates, inspecting them closely. She tested the grip on the underside and examined the thick rubber soles. "Woah...they look great. But...I can already slide around on my own, though."

    Quinn waved a finger in front of her nose, his expression stern. "Yeah, but you also complained that your shoes would wear out too quickly, remember? Shoes aren''t meant for skating around. That''s what these babies are for. And they''re also durable, too."

    He tapped on the black chassis, smiling proudly. "Check it. This stuff is high-tensile carbon fiber composite, and the wheels are a mix of carbon nanotube-infused rubber and Kevlar. Very durable. Should last a while."

    Fii raised her eyebrows in surprise. She ran her fingertips along the skate''s polished exterior, admiring the sleek design. "Wow, that''s so cool. Where''d you get the materials from?"

    "Bought ''em from the Rust Market, mostly. Some of the parts are leftover from some old projects I''ve scrapped, and a couple more from the junkyard." Quinn scratched his cheek, flashing her a guilty grin. "Also may or may not have asked Edith for a teensy loan. But she didn''t mind, so yay! And these skates are all yours. Go on, try them on."

    "I don''t want to ask how much ChitCreds this cost, but thanks, Quinn! I owe ya." Fii slipped her shoes off and donned the skates, strapping them snugly around her ankles. The fit felt comfortable¡ªnot tight or loose¡ªjust right.

    "Alright, give them a spin," Quinn encouraged. "Tell me what you think."

    Fii pushed forward with one foot, gliding smoothly along the workshop floor. The skates glided effortlessly over the smooth concrete, their grippy undersides leaving faint black streaks with each rotation. The amber wheels hummed faintly, a pleasant whine that reminded Fii of an electric kettle coming to a boil. She circled around the room, gradually picking up speed, before returning to where Quinn waited. "Woah! These things are great, Quinn. I love ''em! Thanks!"

    "Good to hear. It''s also got something else. If you flex your pinky toes, you can lock the wheels so you don''t slip around. Flex them again, and you can unlock them and roll again. That way, you can walk normally without sliding everywhere. There''s a similar mechanism at the heel too. The brakes engage automatically when you shift your weight to the back of your heels. Give that a try, too."

    Fii skated around the room once more, locking her wheels and walking back to him. She practiced a few times, trying to master the finer points of stopping and starting. Soon enough, she was able to slide gracefully around with ease, shifting from skating to walking with ease.

    The skates were perfect. Fitting too. She made a mental note to repay Quinn someday for the gift.

    "Try using your gravity slide thing with those on," Quinn suggested.

    "Oh, okay! I was planning to, anyway." Fii stepped back, assuming her usual pose.

    She focused, feeling the familiar pull of her gravikinesis. The sensation was different this time, her feet anchored to the skates, the skates to the ground. She pushed off, sending herself hurtling forward at a dizzying speed. She let out a yelp, her eyes widening in shock as she approached the wall.

    But as she was about to smash into it, she jumped and twisted, landing on the wall''s surface feet-first. The momentum carried her upwards, her body perpendicular to the floor.

    As she approached the ceiling, she slowed to a halt, her power negating the force of gravity from the ground. She found herself standing on the ceiling, facing the floor below.

    Quinn looked up, raising a brow. "Huh. That''s kinda weird to see," he remarked.

    "Hey, I can fight people from any direction now," Fii bragged. She crouched and leapt off the ceiling, flipping in mid-air to land gracefully beside Quinn. Her momentum carried her past him, launching her to the other side of the room. She slid across the floor, rolling to a stop. "Phew, okay! That was kinda tricky."

    Quinn gave her a high five. "Nice. Practice makes perfect, as they say. Looks like the skates work well with your powers, eh? You need to break them in, though. But that''s expected."

    "Mhm. Definitely. They''re great, Quinn. Thank you so much." Fii grinned, grabbing his arm and pulling him in for a hug. "Seriously, I love ''em. You''re the best!"

    Quinn clumsily returned the embrace, giving her a couple of light pats on the back before letting go. He stepped back and stuffed his hands in his pockets. "No problem. Happy to help. I''m just glad they fit."

    Fii brushed the hair out of her face and regarded Quinn carefully. He had gone quiet again. Maybe he still needed a little cheering up? "Wanna go out tonight? Get something to eat?" she offered. "My treat!"

    He tilted his head, considering the invitation for a moment. "Uhh, sure, why not? Sure beats eating another ration pack alone in my workshop, heh. But...hang on a sec, gotta get myself cleaned up. Gimme a moment. I smell like I''ve been working for days straight. Which is kinda true, but whatever."

    "Okay, sounds good. Lemme know when you''re ready to go, alright? I''m gonna practice with the new skates some more. Meet you at Rao''s then?"

    "Yup, sure. Be there in an hour." Quinn headed for the exit, calling out over his shoulder. "Seeya later, Fii!"

    She waved goodbye, watching as he left the workshop. She stood there in the center of the room for a minute, lost in thought. It had been a productive day¡ªthe most fun she had in a while.

    A warm, fuzzy feeling bubbled in her chest. She loved spending time with Quinn. He had a knack for making her laugh and always knew how to cheer her up, even when she wasn''t feeling her best. She made a mental note to visit him more often after this, whenever she had the time to spare.

    In the meantime, she had some practicing to do.

 Chapter 49: Snake Trap

    Kasumi Yamaguchi, known as ¡®Cobra¡¯ in the shadowed corners of the slums, watched with an impassive gaze as the small crew of hired men worked tirelessly in the makeshift lab. The old warehouse had once been used as storage for some mid-tier gang, but was now home to something new: a small-scale chemical refinery, dedicated to producing Shiver.

    Along one wall were rows upon rows of metallic vats and centrifuges, containing all sorts of chemicals, powders, and other ingredients needed to produce the drug. A constant, droning hum filled the room as the machines labored away, mixing and separating the compounds into usable products. A bank of computers lined the opposite wall, constantly monitoring the progress of the various processes, ensuring that the equipment functioned properly and the output met the specifications.

    The only light in the room came from the overhead fixtures and the illuminated dials and displays of the machinery. The glow of the neon signs outside filtered in through cracks in the boarded-up windows, creating eerie, dancing shadows in the darkened interior.

    The men, mostly transients from beyond the Metropolis and the slums, toiled in the gloomy conditions without complaint. They wore safety masks and goggles as they handled the various chemicals, working with practiced efficiency, overseen by the hulking form of Vaughn. Occasionally, a plume of colorful smoke would escape one of the vats, filling the room with acrid, unpleasant odors.

    If that happened, one of the workers would promptly shut off the machine and dispose of the contaminated material, while the rest continued with their tasks.

    In the middle of the room stood a table where the completed Shiver serum was refined and packaged for distribution. A single chemist monitored the process, double-checking the computer readings and occasionally adjusting the settings on the machines to achieve the desired results. Beside him, a conveyor belt carried finished syringes out of the vat of freshly processed fluid, depositing them into a bin, before sending the next batch through.

    Every now and then, the chemist would retrieve a syringe, inspect it to make sure it was satisfactory, and set it aside. Once a sufficient quantity had accumulated, he would hand the batch off to a courier, who would then deliver the product to the Neon Vipers.

    As for Kasumi, she remained hidden in the shadows, her presence known only to those directly involved with the production. She wore a mask and hoodie, obscuring her identity from the others.

    It was better for her to maintain a degree of separation from the Mad Chemist and his operation. After all, the man¡¯s business practices were infamous, and she wanted nothing to do with his reputation. While he might be the one with the brains behind the operation, she was the one with the brawn¡ªthe muscle to back it up.

    If there was one thing Kasumi excelled at, it was keeping her promises. She had agreed to help the Mad Chemist in exchange for resources and a cut of the profits, and she intended to honor her word. As far as she was concerned, their partnership was purely transactional¡ªnothing more, nothing less. And if he broke their deal, she would find him and kill him without hesitation.

    Well, finding him would be the main issue. She knew that his lair was somewhere in the Metropolis, but since her exile, she hadn''t dared to re-enter the city.

    Still, he did come to the slums to check on the project, but those visits were infrequent and sporadic. Whenever she saw him, he kept his distance, accompanied by a pair of burly bodyguards draped in thick trenchcoats.

    For now, the two seemed to be cooperating well, which pleased her. After all, she had no interest in stirring up unnecessary conflict. At the end of the day, she valued stability over anything else, especially with her gang being in shambles from Axion''s interference.

    As she observed, Vaughn approached her, offering a respectful salute. "The production''s going smoothly," he remarked, his eyes surveying the scene.

    Kasumi¡¯s lips curled into a thin smile. "Seems like it," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of disdain. "Hired hands from outside the slums...desperate enough to not ask questions."

    Vaughn nodded, leaning against a nearby table. "Doesn''t it strike you as a little strange that the Mad Chemist trusts them? Even with our supervision, there''s still a chance that they''d cut a few corners or mix the wrong chemicals to skim the excess."

    Kasumi stared at the rows of machines and workers, a cold sneer on her lips. "There''s a reason why he chooses these people for the job," she murmured. "The quality of the product isn''t in question. These men are disposable, easily replaceable. They''re not connected to any gangs or factions within the slums, so even if they were to betray him or escape, they wouldn''t have anywhere to run."

    "That''s awfully risky, though," Vaughn remarked, raising an eyebrow. "It''s not like we''ve got an endless supply of mooks like this, ya know? Sooner or later, they''ll be gone, and he''ll need to recruit more people again, maybe even from within the slums this time."

    Kasumi cocked her head to one side, shrugging slightly. "So what? He''s probably got contacts in the underworld, and he can always bring in fresh meat from elsewhere. Besides, I know a few of them are from the metropolis, or at least from other cities."

    "You mean like him?" Vaughn gestured towards a balding man who stood hunched over the table, measuring liquids and adding them into a vat. He appeared to be in his late 40s or early 50s, and his eyes were sunken and dark, giving his features a haggard appearance.

    Kasumi raised her chin, narrowing her eyes in distaste as she gazed at the man. "Yes," she answered, her tone becoming brusque. "I think that one''s a deadbeat chemist who lost everything in the metropolis. Probably got scouted or blackmailed into the job."

    "Poor sap," Vaughn commented with a chuckle.

    Kasumi crossed her arms over her chest, her fingers tapping idly on her elbow. "We''re all screwed in our own ways," she muttered. "And as long as he does his job and keeps quiet, he gets paid, so he has nothing to complain about. Compared to the usual rabble we have to deal with, these guys are preferable."

    Vaughn shrugged casually. "True that. Still, can''t shake the feeling that something''s off. I just don''t see why he''s making and distributing a drug like that here of all places. It ain''t to get even more rich, that''s for sure. We''re practically selling ''em as cheap as cannabis."

    Kasumi tilted her head and smiled wryly. "Who cares? It''s his money to waste. Besides, it''s none of our business what his motivations are. He pays us to do the dirty work, and that''s what we do. Simple as that. Once the product is in circulation, and we get our payment, that''s when we move on."

    "Heh. Fine by me." Vaughn stuffed his hands into the pockets of his coat, rocking back and forth on his heels. "Boss, about that girl, the Super. Axion. The bounty still hasn''t been claimed yet. I heard a lot of gangs are still out on the hunt but no one''s caught her. Even those Carnage Collective nutjobs couldn''t do jack shit. Seems like the girl''s a damn slippery one."

    "Tch," she scoffed. "Yeah, figures. No surprise there."

    She lifted her eyes to the ceiling and sighed loudly. Her mind raced, searching for the best way to respond. She didn''t want to admit that the girl''s power and skills impressed her, nor that her defeat by the Super''s hands stung more than a little. After all, she prided herself on her unmatched agility and speed.

    Well, unmatched by human standards anyway.

    But Metas just had to exist. Those freaks were something else entirely. The difference between a regular human and a Metahuman was like comparing a housecat to a Bengal tiger¡ªand that wasn''t even taking into account whatever power they had.

    Kasumi clicked her tongue and pushed herself off the wall with one foot. Her boots thumped as they hit the ground, the sound reverberating throughout the chamber.

    She paced back and forth along the perimeter of the room, running a hand through her jet black hair as she contemplated Vaughn''s statement. Truthfully, she did want to take another stab at the Super girl, but she wasn''t convinced that the Neon Vipers could succeed, not in their current condition.

    Besides, Axion had humiliated her once already, and she didn''t want to risk a repeat. If they ever crossed paths again, she wanted to ensure victory¡ªtotal and utter domination. She wanted the Super''s defeat to be so absolute and decisive that no doubt would remain.

    "Whatever the Doc has in mind for her, I want no part of it. I''ll let her enjoy her freedom for now. She''s not worth wasting any more effort on." Kasumi paused briefly, glancing in Vaughn''s direction. "At least, not right now."

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    Vaughn''s eyebrows rose slightly, but he nodded his understanding. "Ah, I see. Well, it''s your call. Personally, I''d love to take a crack at that bitch again, but I get where you''re coming from. Just saying, once she''s taken care of, we''ll be sitting pretty nice for a while." He flashed a toothy grin, nudging Kasumi''s arm. "Right? Getting back to our roots. That''s all we want, ain''t it?"

    Kasumi frowned. "Sure, but I''d rather avoid getting into the crosshairs of other big gangs while we rebuild the gang. Another turf war''s the last thing we need. There''s nothing wrong with being smart about this. There''s no rush, Vaughn. We''ll get there eventually."

    The grin on Vaughn''s face faltered. "Ah, alright, sure," he conceded, though his tone indicated that he was still displeased. "Not my fault I''ve been bored lately. At least we finally managed to oust the Neon Knights, and the other gangs haven''t tried anything yet. I kinda miss the action, ya know?"

    Their conversation was interrupted as one of Kasumi¡¯s men burst into the room, his breath ragged and his face pale. "Cobra! Boss! There¡¯s trouble. A gang¡¯s been snooping around the premises. Looks like they¡¯re casing the joint."

    Kasumi glared at Vaughn, her mouth twisting in a fierce scowl. "You just had to jinx us, didn''t you?"

    His shoulders sagged, his face a mixture of exasperation and annoyance. "Oi, it ain''t my fault the other gangs suddenly started acting ballsier, but yeah, sorry, boss."

    She glanced at her underling. "What gang is it?"

    "The Echo Syndicate, ma''am."

    Kasumi hissed between her teeth, her fists clenching tight.

    The Echo Syndicate¡ªone of the four major gangs within the slums.

    It was unavoidable that she''d eventually butt heads with them again, but she had hoped to keep things civil until the distribution of Shiver had concluded.

    They were the biggest distributors of drugs in the slums¡ªparticularly heroin and meth¡ªso naturally, their interests intersected with the Neon Vipers. Normally, they coexisted in a tenuous peace, neither actively antagonizing each other unless the other infringed upon their territory or made a bold move to expand their operations.

    The problem was that Shiver had the potential to seriously damage their drug trade, so they weren''t likely to sit idle and do nothing.

    Kasumi shook her head slowly, the movement causing the loose strands of hair beneath her hood to sway gently. "Do they know that we''re here?"

    "We''re not sure. Probably not. Otherwise, they wouldn''t have sent a small group."

    She brushed past him, striding swiftly towards the exit. "I''ll deal with them myself. Vaughn, you handle things here. Make sure the production continues uninterrupted, and that no one gets the bright idea of escaping with the knowledge of our operation. If that happens, shoot them dead. You can leave the corpses out for the Pallbearers."

    Kasumi pulled her mask over her face and adjusted the fit of the hoodie over her head, tugging it into place.

    The echo of Vaughn''s booming laughter followed her as she marched out the door, "Leave it to me, Cobra. Have fun!"

    <hr>

    Kasumi''s shadow cut a slender path through the dim alleyways that bordered the facility. She ghosted around the edge of the building, her footsteps muffled by the detritus of the slums. She kept low to the ground, her head and shoulders barely visible over the top of a pile of debris. The rain drummed on the rusted sheet metal roof above her as she crouched in the shadows.

    Through a gap in the stacked trash, she spotted the gang of Echo Syndicate thugs. Thirteen of them stood huddled together in the murky, wet street. Pipe pistols and rifles glinted dully in their hands, while others brandished knives and hatchets. Their faces were hidden under heavy scarves, and the ponchos they wore concealed the shape of their bodies, making it difficult to gauge how heavily armed they might be.

    They murmured amongst themselves in hushed whispers, their voices almost drowned out by the rain, but Kasumi could catch a few words here and there.

    "What the hell you think they''re up to?"

    "Must be somethin'' valuable in there."

    "Think we should just go in guns blazing?"

    "Nah, the boss said to report back. We can come back with more guys and smoke ''em all."

    "I dunno, man, they could be packing."

    "Forget it, let''s get outta here. We''re treading on cracked glass."

    Kasumi smirked to herself as she listened. What fools. They clearly had no idea they''d already been discovered.

    As Kasumi rose to her feet, a faint metallic click echoed in the silence. She flexed her fingers, causing the intricate network of cables and wires embedded in her gloves to shimmer faintly in the darkness.

    Her boots thudded heavily against the concrete as she sprinted towards the Echo Syndicate thugs. With a sharp jerk of her wrists, the nanowire dispenser hissed as the filaments shot out, unspooling rapidly.

    The first thug barely had time to register the threat before the wires wrapped around his neck.

    Kasumi gave a vicious yank, and the man''s head tumbled from his shoulders. Blood gushed from the stump, spurting across the cracked pavement in a crimson spray as the lifeless body crumpled to the ground.

    "Fuck! It''s Cobra! She''s here!" someone screamed in alarm.

    Gunfire erupted from the group of gang members, the rounds ricocheting off the walls around Kasumi. She rolled out of the way as several bullets whistled past, splattering against the brickwork behind her. She leapt into the air, landing behind one of the thugs. Her knee smashed into the man''s skull, sending him flying.

    He slammed into the ground with a sickening crunch, and Kasumi followed with a swift stomp to the throat. Bone crunched and squelched beneath her heel, and the thug let out a brief gurgle before falling silent.

    Without slowing down, Kasumi whirled around, the nanowires snapping and popping as she spun them into a shield. The bullets bounced off the web of filaments, creating a shower of sparks and pulverized lead.

    She ducked and weaved through the hail of gunfire, closing the distance between her and the closest thug.

    He swung a knife at her, but Kasumi leaned back, avoiding the slash, and flicked her wrist, sending her wires coiling around the man''s arms. With a savage twist, she yanked the limbs off, leaving the man shrieking and writhing in the alley.

    Another thug charged at her with a hatchet, but she sidestepped his attack and struck him in the jaw with the heel of her boot. He staggered, and she kicked him in the groin, sending him to his knees. Before he could react, she whipped the wires around his neck and sliced his head clean off.

    As the body toppled, Kasumi advanced, using the dead man as a human shield. Bullets thudded into the corpse, and Kasumi vaulted over the body, using the nanowires to propel herself into the air.

    She landed on the shoulders of a thug, wrapping her legs around his head and flipping him to the ground. A thin blade flicked out of the toe of her boot, and she stabbed down, driving the tip into the back of the man''s neck. He twitched and shuddered, a garbled cry of pain escaping his lips, before he lay still.

    More shots rang out as the remaining thugs fired wildly. She twisted and turned, deflecting the bullets as she waded into the fray. Her hands moved with precision, her fingers twitching as she controlled the movements of her wires. The filaments flashed through the air, slicing and slicing.

    Limbs, guts, and blood sprayed everywhere.

    Bodies dropped to the ground, staining the grimy pavement red. In seconds, the last of the thugs fell. The only survivor, a man dressed in a yellow poncho, dropped to his knees, holding his hands up in surrender.

    "Please, please, please, spare me, Cobra." The man trembled and whimpered, his face a mask of pure terror. His eyes darted around the carnage surrounding him. "I''m begging you. I''ve got kids, a family. Please don''t kill me. I''ll do anything!"

    Kasumi surveyed the bloody aftermath of the skirmish, watching the bodies twitch and squirm in their death throes. The coppery scent of spilled blood lingered in the air.

    The nanowires buzzed quietly as they retracted back into her gloves'' housing units, and Kasumi''s fingers relaxed. She inhaled deeply through her nose, savoring the adrenaline rushing through her veins, before turning her attention back to the frightened thug.

    As the rain soaked into her clothes and ran down her skin, she sauntered over to him.

    The thug continued to babble. He stammered and blubbered incoherently, tears streaming from his eyes.

    Kasumi stopped in front of him, looming over his kneeling form. She grasped his face in her hand, tilting his head to the side. Her thumb brushed his cheek, smearing the drops of water across his pale flesh.

    "Why should I?" she asked, her voice low and icy. She pulled his ear closer to her lips, speaking with deliberate slowness. "Tell me why I shouldn''t gut you like a fish."

    He choked out a sob. "I can''t, I can''t...please don''t." He swallowed hard, a shudder passing through his body as he gasped for breath. "I''ll do anything...I swear, I''ll do whatever you want, just please, I''ll do anything. I''ll do anything."

    Kasumi remained silent for a long moment. Then she released her grip and stepped back. She placed her hands on her hips, regarding him with a cold glare. Her lips curved into a smirk beneath her mask.

    "Anything, eh?" she said. "Alright, listen closely. Go back to your boss and tell him that Axion killed your friends as a warning."

    The thug nodded vigorously, clutching his hands together. "Yeah, yeah, Axion killed them."

    She suddenly reached out and grabbed a fistful of his hair, pulling him close. She leaned in, her eyes narrowed, her lips curled back in a snarl. "If I find out didn''t pass the message on¡ªand I will find out¡ªI''ll find your family and torture them in front of you before cutting your dick off and forcing you to eat it. Got it?"

    He winced, squeezing his eyes shut. "G-got it! I understand! I''ll do it!"

    "Good." Kasumi released her grasp on his scalp, sending the man sprawling backwards onto the muddy ground. "Now scram. I better not see you again."

    The thug scrambled away on his hands and knees, slipping in the mud before hauling himself upright and darting out of sight.

    After a brief pause, she turned around and headed back towards the facility. She didn''t need to follow him; he would do exactly what she ordered him to do. Fear ensured that.

    The name of Axion had been thrown into the ring, and Kasumi fully intended to use that to her advantage. With any luck, that would scare away other gangs and factions for now.

    The Super''s notoriety and influence could be useful after all.

 Chapter 50: Hustling in the Hush

    Kenzo crossed his arms over his chest, leaning casually against a wall. His gaze scanned the area, searching for any signs of the Dusk Tillers. He recognized a couple of their members lurking nearby, their haggard appearances and rough demeanors marking them as distinctly different from the other gangs and groups that frequented the Crossroads.

    Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted one of the gang members approaching him. He straightened, greeting the man with a smile and a nod. "Yo, Green! How''s the harvest going this year?"

    "We''re doing well," the gang member replied. "We managed to get some good seeds from a scavenger a couple of months ago. The plants are coming in strong and healthy." He paused, his expression darkening slightly. "Though, we''re still fighting off the Gully Rats every other week. They keep trying to sneak in and steal our produce. It''s a real hassle, but we manage."

    Kenzo tilted his head to the side. "That''s rough. Hopefully, they''ll give you a break soon. Say, speaking of the Gully Rats, have you seen any of their members running around lately? Particularly the higher-ups like Torque or Twitch?"

    "No, I haven''t seen those bastards since last month. I heard Zoltar got off''d by the Neon Knights, and they''re all hiding somewhere licking their wounds. Why''re you asking?"

    "Oh, nothing. Just curious." Kenzo shrugged. He wasn''t entirely convinced by the rumors.

    Gary Nolan¡ªalso known as "Green"¡ªwas the leader of the Dusk Tillers, and a frequent attendee of Shunkash¨±t¨­''s concerts. Unlike the other gang leaders in the area, Green maintained an informal, friendly relationship with Kenzo. They were even allowed to sell cannabis in the Tower of Songs¡ªat a modest price. The Dusk Tillers produced the finest weed Kenzo had ever smoked, and he enjoyed their company more than that of many others.

    This resulted in a mutually beneficial arrangement, and Kenzo rarely encountered any issues with them.

    "Anyways, how''s that bounty on Axion working out for you guys?" Kenzo asked, his tone casual. "I''ve noticed a lot of gangs are on the hunt for her. You guys joining in, too?"

    Green chuckled, shaking his head. "Nah, we''re staying out of that one. We got no beef with her. She doesn''t bother us, and we don''t bother her. Plus, she''s a badass, and we respect that. As long as she''s not another Backfire, we''re cool with her."

    "Hmmm, that''s interesting. Have you heard who''s behind this bounty? Is it one of the big four like the Echo Syndicate or the Ironclad Legion?"

    The Dusk Tillers'' leader furrowed his brow, casting a sideways glance at Kenzo. "Nope. Not sure exactly who put the bounty out, but it''s definitely from someone outside the slums. Two million credits for Axion''s capture is a hefty sum. No way anyone from here would have that kind of money to throw around just to catch a Super."

    Kenzo sighed and ruffled his hair. "Yeah. I guess you''re right. I was hoping I could talk to ''em for a sponsorship or something."

    "Aww, man! You gonna leave us for the Metropolis? But we love your music, bro!" Green exclaimed. "You can''t just ditch us for those HighRisers!"

    "Who said I was leaving the slums? You really think that little of my loyalty?" Kenzo grinned playfully, punching the bigger man on the shoulder.

    "Sorry, sorry," Green said, raising his hands apologetically. "But seriously, if you do plan to take that route, I wish you the best of luck. Your band would make it big in the city. No doubt about that."

    "Thanks, Green. Appreciate it," Kenzo said. "And hey, tell you what. Let''s get high as shit and jam to some tunes next week, alright? Me and the boys will bring the drinks and the bongs."

    "Sounds like a plan."

    Green smiled and clapped Kenzo on the back, then disappeared back into the crowd, his comrades following behind him.

    Kenzo watched him go, still smiling, before sighing under his breath.

    Same answer from them. From the Reaper Posse. And now from the Dusk Tillers. None of them seemed to know who set the bounty, but it was legit enough to attract the attention of nearly every gang in the slums¡ªwhich meant that the big four syndicates okay''d it.

    So who was the one pulling the strings?

    The only other possibility Kenzo could think of was the Mad Chemist. Virgil said that the guy had a stake in the Shiver business, but why put a bounty on Axion?

    Kenzo made his way through the Rust Market, shoving past crowds of people milling about.

    He sensed someone tailing him¡ªVirgil. He slowed his pace to allow the former vigilante to catch up to him.

    "So, did you figure anything out from talking with the Dusk Tillers?" Virgil''s gruff voice came from his side, though he didn''t make eye contact. They kept walking through the throng of people, acting as though they were only traveling alongside each other by coincidence.

    "Same as the others. None of them seem to have a clue who put the bounty out." Kenzo glanced around to ensure no one was eavesdropping, and then spoke in a lower voice. "But it''s looking more like this Mad Chemist guy''s the one responsible. What do you think?"

    "It''s been on the back of my mind, but I wanted to be absolutely sure." Virgil stroked his beard as he mulled over Kenzo''s words. "It''ll be hard to make the bounty go away. Especially when it''s a contract that even the big four agreed to accept."

    "Do you have an idea for how we can approach this? Without putting Fii in harm''s way, that is."

    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    "We could try reaching out to one of the big four, preferably the one with less interest in the bounty. Get them to lift the contract, and Axion can safely come out of hiding. Maybe the Chemist''s people won''t be so brazen once the heat is off of her."

    Kenzo spared a quick glance his way before returning his focus to their path ahead. "I know you, Virgil. What do you really want to say?"

    The older man grunted, rubbing his neck. "If she could just stop being soft and just start killing off the thugs who are after her, it''d make everything a whole lot easier. There''s no place for mercy and sentimentality in these streets. We''ve talked about this plenty of times before."

    "Sure, we have," Kenzo said wryly. "You''re saying that once enough dead bodies lay in her wake, everyone will finally get the message to stop bothering her?"

    The two of them emerged from the market, and Virgil waited until the hubbub had faded behind them before continuing his train of thought. "Yep. That''s exactly what I''m saying. Killing is almost a daily occurrence around here. No one''s gonna blink twice at a few dead gangsters."

    Kenzo rolled his eyes and shook his head, keeping his mouth shut as he walked along. He wasn''t about to argue the point with him. "How are you planning to reach out to the big four? Are you suggesting we actually contact one of them directly and negotiate for them to rescind the bounty? That''s crazy. You''re public enemy number one with all of them, remember?"

    "Still thinking about it. I''ll let you know when I''ve figured it out." Virgil pulled his hat down low over his eyes, covering most of his face in shadow. He threw a lazy wave over his shoulder as he broke away, disappearing into an alley.

    Kenzo watched him go, letting out a heavy sigh. Virgil was as stubborn as they came. Whatever plan he''d come up with would leave too many bodies in its wake, but at this point, he might not have much of a choice.

    He scratched at the stubble on his chin.

    Well, that''s a problem for another day. Right now, there''s music that needs making¡ªwait, hang on.

    There was one more person he could ask. But getting an answer without getting his throat slit would be the hard part.

    "Kuso...I haven''t been this stressed out in years." Kenzo ruffled his hair as he grumbled to himself.

    Time to head back to the Tower.

    <hr>

    Virgil ambled through the narrow passageway, his boots squelching against the damp concrete floor. Ahead, his destination loomed over the skyline¡ªa decrepit, rusted telecom tower that had long ago fallen into disuse.

    Tower of Silence was what people called it. A fitting name given its history and its current state.

    Nara''s place should be nearby...if memory serves. The crone probably wouldn''t be happy to see him, but he didn''t care. This was important.

    He ducked into a small, cluttered alley where he spotted the elderly woman sitting cross-legged on a blanket, her wrinkled face obscured by a heavy scarf. Her gnarled fingers sorted through a stack of jewelry, most of which looked like cheap baubles.

    "Still alive, are you?" Nara cackled as she peered up at him with rheumy eyes. "Thought the Reaper''s minions would''ve chopped you into bits and fed you to the dogs by now."

    "Not yet. Still breathing. Still kicking." Virgil regarded the assortment of trinkets spread out around her. "What''s all this junk for?"

    "For sale, of course. Something to earn some honest coin with, unlike certain vagrants." Nara returned her attention to the jewelry, sorting through the pieces with trembling, arthritic fingers.

    "It''s been over a decade since I''ve seen that scowling mug of yours, and you show up looking like death warmed over. Must be important. So, what do you want?" She clicked her tongue irritably. "Spit it out, boy. My joints aren''t what they used to be."

    Virgil smiled tightly at the old crone, scratching his head through his hat. "Hey now, can''t I say hello to my old friend from time to time? Not often I have a chance to drop by and chat."

    She snorted. "Cut the crap. Out with it."

    "Fine, fine." Virgil heaved a weary sigh. He plopped in front her, resting his elbows on his thighs. "Need your help with something, old hag."

    She glared at him, spitting on the ground near his feet. "Bah! My help? I see someone''s still brighter than a busted bulb. You still haven''t paid back the mountain of favors you owe me." Nara poked a finger at him, her bony joints grinding together. "Or has that memory gone soft like rotted meat?"

    Virgil ignored her insults, gesturing at her wares instead. "I''ll buy all those if you can help me. Sounds like a fair deal, no?"

    "What are you playing at, Maddox? Don''t waste my time!" She waved a hand dismissively. "I''ve no use for that crap."

    "How''s five thousand ChitCreds sound to you, granny?" He offered, emphasizing the amount with a raised eyebrow. "Five thousand."

    "Six. And don''t haggle with me, Maddox. Be grateful I don''t charge you more." Nara jabbed a gnarled finger into his chest, her eyes narrowing to slits. "Pay up, or I''m calling my grandson over to send your soul straight to Hell."

    "Fine. Six it is." Virgil grunted. He slipped a hand into his coat and withdrew a stack of bills from within. He counted the cash out loud, and when he finished, he handed over the payment. "There, satisfied?"

    The old woman snatched the money from him with surprising speed, quickly shoving the stack into her robes. "Better be real ChitCreds, or I''ll have my boys gut you, Maddox."

    He snorted. "Your eyes are as sharp as ever, old hag."

    Nara grunted, rummaging around her belongings before sliding them over to him. "Take the junk. Now, speak. What do you need from me? But be quick about it. I''d like to spend my evening eating supper rather than listening to a fool like you."

    Virgil''s lips tugged upward into a slight grin. He scooped up the jewelry pieces and slid them into his coat pocket, then leaned forward, propping an elbow on his knee. "I need you to set up a meeting between me and some of the movers within the Big Four."

    The old woman stared at him incredulously, her eyes widening in surprise. "You have a death wish? Or are you looking to start another war? Haven''t you already pissed off enough gangs, Backfire?"

    He frowned, the lines on his face deepening. "I need to speak to someone with the authority to withdraw the bounty on Axion''s head. Someone who has a seat at the table. Think you can set something like that up, or am I asking too much?"

    Nara pursed her lips, her brow creasing as she mulled over the request. "That''s a tall order. Even for me. Especially since you''re the one requesting an audience. Anyone within the Big Four would want to see you dead. No one there has forgotten what you did ten years ago, Maddox." She tapped a bony finger on her chin. "You''ve got a lot of enemies, and the Big Four are no exception. Can you guarantee you won''t start another massacre?"

    Virgil laughed dryly. "I''m not planning to shoot anyone in the head, old hag. I just need to talk. After that, we part ways, and nobody dies."

    She stared at him for a long moment, scrutinizing his face carefully, and then she shook her head, a defeated look on her withered features. "If I pull this off, you owe me. And I''m going to collect it before you fade for another decade. Understand?"

    He smirked at her, brushing his fingertips over the brim of his hat. "Loud and clear, old hag."

    With that, he rose to his feet and ambled out of the alley, leaving the elderly woman to mutter curses under her breath.

 Chapter 51: Tangled Wires

    Kenzo lay in bed, a tangle of sheets pooled around his waist, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. A faint light filtered through the windows of his loft, illuminating the cracks and peeling paint of the walls around him. Dust motes danced lazily in the air, drifting through shafts of sunlight.

    His thoughts meandered, recalling the events of the previous day. His talk with the Dusk Tillers'' leader revealed little, and whatever plan Virgil had brewing, it was only going to end one way¡ªlots of killing. It always came to that in the end.

    That complicated things.

    His gaze drifted over to the woman sleeping beside him.

    Kasumi.

    The morning light cast her in a soft glow, highlighting the contours of her athletic form beneath the thin sheet. Her hair, usually so precise and controlled, was a wild cascade across the pillow. Her body was nestled against his, the warmth radiating off of her skin. Her bare chest rose and fell steadily, and her breathing was slow and regular.

    In sleep, her features softened. The hard edges of her daytime persona were replaced by a gentler version¡ªa mask she only ever showed in the early hours of dawn. Kenzo''s gaze followed the curve of her body, taking in every detail, every scar, and tattoo etched into her ivory skin.

    Memories of the previous night flooded his mind, and a smile spread across his face. It was like this every time they ended up in bed together, a tangled mess of limbs and lust.

    He reached for her, tracing the outline of her cheek with his calloused thumb. Her skin was smooth beneath his touch. His fingers brushed the edge of her lips, tracing their curve. Kasumi shifted in her sleep, unconsciously moving closer to him.

    He allowed his hand to trail lower, along the line of her jaw, and down the column of her neck. His hand rested lightly on the rise of her collarbone, barely touching her skin.

    She stirred, her eyes fluttering open. She gazed at him sleepily.

    "Mmm, you''re awake," Kasumi murmured, leaning into his touch. Her voice, husky with sleep, had a sultry note that sent a pleasant shiver running down his spine unrelated to the drug that bore its name.

    "Just admiring the view." Kenzo leaned in, planting a soft kiss on her forehead. She pressed herself against him, her lips finding his. The kiss was languid at first, but deepened as he responded, his tongue teasing hers.

    Kasumi pulled away after a while, her eyelids heavy.

    She stretched languidly, the motion causing the sheets to slip, revealing the swell of her breasts and the contours of her toned body. She sank back into the pillows with a sigh, her leg sliding over his, trapping him between her thighs.

    Kenzo swallowed hard, taking a moment to compose himself.

    "Did you enjoy last night?" Kasumi purred, her fingers trailing absently over his chest. Her nails left marks on his skin, leaving faint red lines in their wake.

    "Yeah." He smiled at her. "I enjoyed it. A lot."

    "Good. I''m glad. It was fun." Kasumi hummed softly, snuggling closer to him. "Want to go again?"

    His reply caught in his throat as he felt the press of her breasts against him. He cleared his throat and forced a chuckle. "Ahem, ah, maybe later, okay? I''m kind of tired after last night."

    "That''s a shame. I was hoping we could take a shower and have round two together." Kasumi pouted, tracing a line down his abdomen with a slender finger. "Wash your back. Soap your chest. Rub your¡ª"

    Kenzo silenced her with a kiss, his tongue plunging deep into her mouth. He teased her, drawing out a moan from her throat. After a few moments, he broke off. "You''re dangerous. If you keep that up, I won''t be able to resist."

    She gave him a coy smile, tilting her head to the side. "Is that a bad thing?"

    "For me, yeah. I''d like to enjoy this for longer. Let''s take things slowly today. Is that okay?"

    Kasumi nuzzled his neck, nodding her agreement. "Mhm, I don''t mind. As long as you promise we''ll pick this back up tonight."

    "I promise," Kenzo replied, kissing her forehead once more. "Tonight. Definitely."

    A comfortable silence settled between them as they basked in the peace of the early morning. The scent of jasmine from her skin filled the room, mixing with the musk of their rut from the night before. They lay there for a while, enjoying the quiet intimacy, their bodies intertwined.

    After a time, Kasumi eventually pulled away, propping herself up on an elbow as she regarded him thoughtfully. "What''s wrong, Kenzo? You''re usually not this quiet unless you''ve got a lot on your mind."

    "I''ve been doing some thinking, that''s all. Nothing serious." Kenzo brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face, tucking it behind her ear. "Say, can I ask you a question?"

    Kasumi tilted her head. "What is it?"

    Now came the hard part.

    He knew for a while now that Kasumi was the enigmatic leader of the Neon Vipers, Cobra. Yet she hadn''t shared that with him. They both held secrets from each other, but this particular detail of hers was particularly troublesome. It wasn''t because she was part of a gang, but rather, the fact that she was part of the gang that was distributing Shiver.

    There was a certain code to this lifestyle. A sort of unwritten rule among gangsters and other unsavory types. Never get involved with something that would cause a large part of the populace harm. Drugs were a dirty business, but the ones that caused people to turn into savage beasts even worse.

    Even now, despite his displeasure, Kenzo tolerated Kasumi and her group''s activities in the slums. It wasn''t in his nature to meddle with others'' business. That wasn''t the kind of life he wished to lead¡ªbut that was becoming increasingly difficult to abide by. Especially if she planned to keep selling Shiver.

    He needed to tread carefully here, otherwise one of them could end up dead. It''d be better to bring it up indirectly. Getting a straight answer out of her was unlikely, but maybe he could coax one out of her.

    "So, the slums are getting worse," Kenzo ventured with a casual tone. "There''s a new drug circulating around these parts. Ever heard of Shiver?"

    Kasumi''s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of something dark passing through them. "Can''t say I have. Is it causing a lot of trouble?"

    "Yeah, but it''s not just the usual kind. A lot of people start berserk rampages after they use it. One guy even tried to kill his girlfriend. And the worst thing about it is that they can''t control themselves. They''re just as violent as any animal. Not to mention the addiction rate is insane." Kenzo studied her reaction, noting how she stiffened the slightest bit upon hearing the specifics.

    Definitely knows something.

    Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    "Seems like a stupid way to get high to me," Kasumi remarked, her tone nonchalant. She traced her finger over his chest idly, avoiding his gaze. "But it''s just another symptom of the rot that''s been eating away at this place for generations, right?"

    Kenzo nodded, following her lead and keeping his demeanor relaxed. "Yeah, I agree. It''s bad business, that''s for sure. Too dangerous for us. A drug that induces mindless violence is just asking for trouble." He paused for a beat, measuring his next words. "Selling a drug like that would be foolish, especially when enough people catch wind of what it does. Unless the payoff is worth the potential risk, I suppose."

    Kasumi blinked, a puzzled frown tugging at her lips. She locked eyes with him. "Huh? What are you getting at, Kenzo? I''m not sure if I follow."

    This woman...is she trying to play dumb? Or is she testing me?

    Kenzo smirked, deciding to roll the dice and push her further. "Shiver is making a lot of people paranoid and angry. A drug that causes people to act crazy puts everyone around them at risk. So, imagine a situation where that happens in the slums, a place where a good portion of the population already walks around armed, and gang violence is commonplace. Whoever brought that drug here is either incredibly stupid, or they''ve got an ulterior motive."

    He stopped to let the implications sink in, gauging her expression closely.

    Kasumi returned his stare with a cool, even gaze, her face impassive. "Interesting theory you''ve cooked up, Kenzo. What do you think it means? Any idea on who''s responsible for spreading that stuff?"

    She shifted, sitting up and pulling the sheets around her. The action was casual, yet deliberate¡ªa barrier between them.

    Kenzo met her gaze evenly, letting the silence stretch a beat longer before he answered. "Honestly? I have a guess or two, but I''ve also been trying to figure out why they would do such a thing. But those ideas only lead to more questions." He shrugged. "Guess I can''t figure out why someone would go to all that trouble. A better question would be: who would benefit most from having a bunch of addicts committing acts of senseless violence?"

    He paused, taking note of the subtle tension in Kasumi''s shoulders, the guarded look in her eyes. She said nothing, waiting for him to continue.

    Kenzo exhaled, shaking his head.

    No sense in dragging this out further. The point''s already made. Time to drop the hammer.

    He leveled a hard stare at her, the warmth in his tone fading away. "Something tells me you already know the answer to that question, Kasumi. Every wire tells a tale. And yours is screaming at me right now, Cobra."

    Her expression darkened instantly, the mood between them shifting in the blink of an eye. Kasumi''s eyes hardened, her jaw set. "How long have you known, Kenzo?"

    "Doesn''t matter, does it?" Kenzo sighed, holding his palms up in a placating gesture. "I''ve known for a while. I didn''t say anything because I assumed you had a good reason. I figured you would tell me sooner or later. Guess I overestimated you."

    "If you know who I am, then you should understand why I couldn''t tell you." Kasumi''s tone turned harsh. Her eyes flashed dangerously, but she didn''t move to attack him. "I have my own goals, and my methods aren''t exactly savory. The less you know, the safer you are."

    Kenzo chuckled, running his fingers through his hair as he sat upright, matching her pose. "Safe? Your concerns about my safety seem a little misplaced. I don''t need your protection, Kasumi. I''ve managed fine all by myself for years. I''m just a musician who sometimes picks a fight with street thugs for fun."

    He grinned wryly. "I''m a lot tougher than I look."

    Kasumi shot him a pointed glare. "Fine, then. What would you have done if I told you? Would you try to stop me? Because I don''t take kindly to people who try to get in my way."

    The threat hung in the air for a long moment.

    Kenzo met her steely gaze with a casual shrug and a grin. "Stop you? Why? I never cared if you were in a gang or not. You''re still the same Kasumi I''ve grown fond of, just with a different name." He arched an eyebrow. "That, and the fact that you''re a big fucking deal in the gang world doesn''t faze me. Actually, the opposite. The more notorious, the better, as far as I''m concerned. Shows I''ve got good taste in women."

    He ended his reply with a playful wink.

    Kasumi stared at him in disbelief, her anger seeming to drain away in an instant. Her brows furrowed as she gaped at him, searching for the right words to respond to his unexpected response. "You...I mean, what?" she sputtered.

    Kenzo burst out laughing. "Hahaha, you really thought I''d care that you''re Cobra?" He gestured around them, encompassing the entire room. "We live in the slums, where every other person has some sort of affiliation with a gang or has a family member in one. The reason why you think I would care is because you''ve only lived here for a few years. You weren''t born here like I was. So, I''ll let you in on a secret."

    He leaned forward, causing her to tense, her body poised to spring away as if expecting a sudden blow. He patted her on the shoulder and said, "The average Slumshine wouldn''t bat an eye. We''re all outlaws anyway. Living on the fringes of the Metropolis, surviving day to day. Having the infamous leader of the Neon Vipers in a relationship with me only makes me cooler¡ªas long as your group doesn''t step out of line, of course."

    The confusion melted off her face, replaced by a smirk. "Tch. Cocky bastard."

    "If by ''cocky,'' you mean ''tells it like it is,'' then yes, I am quite cocky." Kenzo''s voice became serious as he regarded her, his expression grave. "But listen to me, Kasumi. Shiver. Is. Dangerous. It''s going to cause problems in the slums, and you''re smart enough to realize what will happen if things spiral out of control. If I were you, I''d pull the plug on that deal immediately. That shit is just plain bad business, and I''d hate to see you get burned by it."

    She pondered his advice in silence.

    When she finally spoke, her voice was cold and measured, but there was a hint of weariness in her tone. "Believe me, I know what it''s like to walk a tightrope of death on a daily basis, Kenzo. I didn''t become the leader of the Neon Vipers by playing nice with others. I took what I wanted and left a trail of corpses in my wake."

    She closed her eyes, sighing softly. "Shiver is a necessary evil. It''s the price we have to pay in order to keep our group afloat. Besides, you still haven''t answered my original question. Are you planning to stand in my way, Kenzo?"

    He raised an eyebrow. "What can I do? Write a diss track about it? Rap about how the Neon Vipers suck ass? I''m a musician, not a vigilante. I fight with songs, not guns. Don''t get me wrong, I have no problem fighting your guys in a street brawl, but gang warfare isn''t my style."

    She watched him closely, her eyes glittering with a strange intensity. "Then we''re on the same page. Just a musician and a gangster sharing a bed. Nothing else."

    "As far as I''m concerned, there''s nothing wrong with that." Kenzo draped an arm around her shoulder, pulling her close. He planted a gentle kiss on her temple. "I never once asked you to give up everything. Just to be honest with me. And for you to be careful with that shit."

    Kasumi grunted in reply. She curled into him, resting her head on his chest, her body relaxing a bit.

    The atmosphere between them changed, the tension evaporating away like mist. The room grew warm, and they found themselves falling into a companionable silence. There was nothing more to discuss.

    Eventually, Kenzo decided to break the quiet. He kissed the top of Kasumi''s head and said, "Anyway, since that''s over with, how about that shower you mentioned earlier?"

    She peered up at him through her lashes, her eyes dancing with amusement. "I thought you were tired, Kenzo? Where''s all this energy coming from?"

    Kenzo smirked at her, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "It''s amazing what a revelation can do to a man. My body''s wide awake now, ready to perform at peak capacity. Plus, we have the whole morning to ourselves, and I''d like to make the most of it before you leave."

    "Well, then. Since you''ve taken such an interest in my well-being, I can''t disappoint you. Allow me to demonstrate the Neon Viper''s hospitality. The benefits are quite substantial, as you can imagine."

    Kasumi tossed the sheets aside and stood, the rest of her naked form exposed to the morning light. She glanced back at him over her shoulder, her expression turning cool and collected. "But one last thing about Shiver, Kenzo. If I were you, I''d stay out of my business. There''s a storm coming, and you don''t want to get caught up in it. Just leave me to handle things on my end, okay? That way, neither of us has to worry about the other getting hurt."

    Before Kenzo could muster a reply, she sauntered into the bathroom, a sway to her hips as she walked.

    He let his gaze roam appreciatively over her body, taking in the curves of her hips, the muscles of her legs, and the gentle slope of her backside. She paused in the doorway, glancing over her shoulder. Their eyes met.

    Without a word, she disappeared into the bathroom, leaving him alone in bed with his thoughts.

    Inwardly, he frowned at her words. Kasumi might think she was being cryptic, but Kenzo understood her message perfectly.

    Too late for that now. I''m already wrapped up in this bullshit, whether I like it or not. At least I have a better idea of what''s happening now. I can work with that. Still, I hope you know what you''re doing, Kasumi.

    Minutes later, the sound of running water echoed through the loft, followed by Kasumi''s sultry voice beckoning him to join her.

    Kenzo snapped out of his musings and shook his head. He rose from the bed, leaving his worries behind as he ambled toward the bathroom.

    Who knew when they''d share another morning like this together? Better to enjoy the moment for all it was worth.

    Besides, he couldn''t wait to collect on Kasumi''s earlier offer.

    In the distance, thunder rolled, and the sky rumbled with the promise of rain.

 Chapter 52: The Big Four

    Virgil''s boots squelched against the damp concrete, the sound echoing off the walls of the narrow passageway that wound its way to the Tower of Silence. The air hung heavy, a mix of smog and the indefinable scent of decay that seemed to permeate this part of the slums. He kept his pace steady, each step measured, aware of the weight of the upcoming confrontation.

    <Are you sure you''re gonna be okay?> Axion''s voice, laden with worry, came over the comm link. <The Big Four''s no joke, you know?>

    "You already asked me this," Virgil mumbled. He drew in a slow breath and exhaled through his nose. "Stop worrying so much."

    <I can''t help it!> Her tone grew more indignant. <These guys run half the slums. It''s a miracle they even agreed to meet with you!>

    He reached up and adjusted his hat. "Calm down, will you? Everything''s gonna be fine. It''s a simple conversation between two parties."

    <Right. Sure.> Her sarcasm was palpable. <''Simple conversation''. Of course!>

    Virgil sighed. He felt her concern, but this was necessary. It was the only way they could draw the target off her and direct their attention elsewhere¡ªnamely, at Salvatore. If he was right about the man''s involvement in the Shiver operation, the Big Four would be more than willing to discuss the matter once they learned of the connection. All Virgil needed to do was point them in the right direction. The rest would sort itself out.

    "Just remember plan B," he continued. "In the event things go south, you¡ª"

    <Yeah, I know, I know. I''ll wait for your signal and jump in. I get it. I still don''t like this, though.> Axion huffed in frustration. <Why do I have to stay on standby while you go in alone?>

    Virgil cracked a smile at that. "Because you''ll end up saying some dumb shit that''ll make things worse. Stay put. I''ll handle everything. This isn''t my first time dealing with these gangsters. And besides..." He patted the pistol at his hip. "I still have a few tricks up my sleeve. Trust me. I can take care of myself."

    Axion made no response, but he could tell she was unconvinced.

    He reached the end of the passage, stepping out into a small courtyard near the old telecom tower.

    Nara awaited him, dressed in her usual worn robes and tattered cloak. Her hands remained concealed in voluminous sleeves, her hood drawn low to shroud her face. A small, flickering fire that danced in a battered oil drum cast flickering shadows on the surrounding walls, painting the area in shades of orange and red.

    The old crone regarded Virgil with a disapproving grunt, her lips twisted in a frown. "Be glad, Backfire. I''m surprised they accepted your offer."

    "Keep the banter to yourself, old hag." Virgil gave her a sidelong glance, then swept his gaze around the courtyard. "Where''s the welcoming committee? I expected they''d come earlier than this."

    "Hmph. As if you deserve such courtesy. Wait here; they''ll be here soon enough." The old woman shuffled away, retreating deeper into the courtyard. "Don''t cause trouble. If you do, I''m throwing you to the wolves."

    Virgil didn''t respond as he watched her leave, his jaw tense. He pressed the transmit button on his earpiece. "Axion, can you still hear me?"

    No answer came. The earpiece remained silent, devoid of static or noise.

    Nara must have set up a jammer or something. At least we had the chance to coordinate a bit beforehand. Still, I can''t deny the fact I''m on edge.

    His expression darkened, and he shifted his weight to his other foot, idly running his fingers over his revolver.

    After a few minutes, he finally caught sight of four figures emerging from the gloom.

    First to step into the dim light was "Butcher" Bill Donovan, a man whose reputation preceded him like a shadow stretching at dusk. His thinning hair was combed over in a vain attempt to conceal his baldness, but it was his eyes, sunken in a gaunt face, that marked him. He wore his stained lab coat like a badge of honor, a smirk playing on his lips as if he were privy to a joke only he understood.

    From another alley emerged "Reverb" Ray, his features hidden behind the trademark mask with the sound waves and an audio equalizer motif, pulsing softly with every step he took. Silver locks fell in a wild cascade, giving him an untamed look that contrasted sharply with the sharp lines of his outfit¡ªall dark tones of gray and black, broken up by the occasional flash of neon yellow. He stepped lightly, almost like he floated above the ground, moving with a preternatural grace that unsettled all who saw him. His movements always left echoes in the air, like after-images of sound and vibration, ringing in his wake.

    The final two newcomers arrived from different directions¡ªone through a street-level door, the other via rooftop.

    "Hammer" Kareem stomped forward, a massive man with skin and muscle like tempered steel. His garb consisted of armored plates and protective gear, giving him the appearance of an urban guerrilla fighter. A single black tattoo stretched across the entire length of his forehead, an emblem representing the Ironclad Legion, while several smaller markings traced the side of his face. A patch with the same symbol adorned his chest, prominently displayed by the sleeveless vest he wore beneath his combat harness.

    Kareem walked with the poise of a soldier, his eyes taking everything in with a cool efficiency. His expression, as usual, betrayed no emotion; he simply marched in silence, the heavy sound of his booted steps reverberating with each stride.

    Lastly, "The Enforcer" Elijah Gray leaped down from the nearby rooftops, landing in a crouch on the street below. A palpable cloud of ash and smoke radiated around his body, cloaking him in a dense haze. He rose to full height, sweeping his gaze around the area before focusing on Virgil, the cold gleam of his eyes visible even through the dark fog.

    Virgil maintained his composure as he locked gazes with the masked figure, resisting the urge to draw his pistol. Instead, he gave a nod of acknowledgment to the enforcer, earning a frosty stare in return.

    Bill sauntered to the center of the courtyard, his hands in his pockets, whistling to himself. He shot an amused look at Virgil, chuckling. "Well well well, I can''t believe I get to see the infamous Backfire again. What brings you crawling out of whatever hole you''ve been living in, hmm?"

    "Business," Virgil answered, his tone level. "As I assume for all of you, too."

    Ray cocked his head, a crackling hum emanating from his mask. "This must be an urgent matter for you to request a meeting with us. If it isn''t, we will not hesitate to kill you." The mask''s speaker distorted his words, making his tone impossible to decipher.

    "Cut the shit and get to the point, Maddox," Elijah snapped, crossing his arms. "You''re lucky we even agreed to meet with you. Don''t waste our time."

    Kareem''s glare shifted to the enforcer, a slight frown crossing his face. "Speak to the man with respect, Elijah. He earned that right a long time ago." The giant man turned back to Virgil, fixing him with an impassive stare. "Maddox, whatever you intend to ask of us, get to it. Say your piece. Otherwise, you can kiss any further negotiations goodbye."

    Virgil narrowed his eyes, drawing in a slow breath to steady himself. They sure know how to make a man feel welcome.

    "Fair enough. Let me get straight to the point." Virgil paused, adjusting his hat. "All of you signed off on the bounty for Axion, correct?"

    The gang lieutenants exchanged glances, sharing guarded looks with one another. Elijah''s expression darkened, Bill''s lip curled upwards into a sneer, Ray said nothing, and Kareem simply studied Virgil with his typical stoicism.

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    Finally, Bill shrugged. "So what if we did? The guy who offered the bounty wanted to remain anonymous, but the two million ChitCreds made a compelling case to agree." He tilted his head to one side, the corners of his eyes creasing. "Besides, the girl has caused no small amount of trouble for everyone; her actions have disrupted business. We can''t overlook that."

    "She''s a problem. End of story," Elijah muttered under his breath, shooting Virgil a venomous glare. "The slums don''t need someone trying to play hero. It''s best the girl stops and sticks to minding her own business from now on. Or we can add her to our collection of corpses."

    Ray crossed his arms, regarding Virgil through the glowing display of his mask. "I don''t get why a Meta would waste the effort acting as a vigilante. What''s the point? It won''t change anything, and it won''t make her life better. What she''s doing is pointless."

    "No one''s arguing about the girl''s motives; what matters is the situation she''s putting herself in. If she wants to survive in the slums, she has to be realistic," Kareem added, his voice carrying a note of finality. "Maddox, is she the reason why you disappeared for ten years? Is she supposed to be your successor?"

    Virgil glanced around, meeting their gazes for a split second before responding. "I wasn''t the one who brought her in; she chose this path on her own. I have nothing to do with her choices. But..." He hesitated, a shadow passing across his face. "I admit I may have recently given her a nudge in the right direction, but her ideals, her beliefs¡ªthose belong to her. They are her reasons, not mine."

    Elijah scowled at him, his fists clenched. "Yet, you''re obviously helping her. Stop meddling, Maddox. It''s not your place. Stick to cleaning your damn gun and minding your own fucking business." He snorted derisively, shaking his head. "You really think the girl has what it takes to succeed where you failed?"

    Virgil met his challenge with stony silence, the enforcer''s words striking a nerve.

    Ray stepped closer, the glow of his mask flickering momentarily. "Do you disagree with his assessment?" His tone remained neutral, neither questioning nor mocking, simply stating a fact. "We all know how poorly you reacted to your past failure; is this a repeat of that mistake? Because the result will not be different. Unless..." He trailed off, tilting his head slightly. "...there''s something else going on?"

    Silence hung heavily in the air for several seconds before Kareem spoke again. "We''re not here to rehash the past. That''s not why we''ve gathered tonight. Maddox, finish what you came to say. Make your proposal. Then, we will consider if what you propose is worth entertaining."

    Virgil glanced around the group, measuring their expressions. He''d dealt with these men before; they weren''t stupid, and they had little patience for word games. So he''d cut to the chase.

    "Axion''s presence in the slums isn''t the issue; it''s about the one who issued that bounty in the first place¡ªSalvatore. The Mad Chemist. I''m sure you all understand what I mean when I say his name."

    At the mention of the supervillain''s moniker, Bill''s brows furrowed, while Elijah and Ray''s heads snapped to Virgil, their posture shifting immediately. Kareem nodded once, his mouth settling into a thin line.

    "The Mad Chemist," he echoed, a hint of disgust in his voice. "Why are we talking about him, Maddox? Speak plainly. And do it fast."

    "The bounty was posted by Salvatore. He''s the one who offered the reward for Axion''s capture, and he''s the one pulling the strings." Virgil crossed his arms, holding their gazes. "He''s also the one supplying ''Shiver'' to the slums. That''s the real reason why the streets have gotten more chaotic as of late."

    The gang lieutenants once again exchanged meaningful glances. This time, their expressions were considerably more strained.

    Ray''s mask flashed briefly, the light cycling rapidly through various patterns and colors before settling back to normal. He pivoted to Virgil, his voice containing a distinct edge to it. "How certain are you about this, Maddox?"

    Virgil''s shoulders tensed ever so slightly. The shift was subtle, but he knew they caught it.

    "I crashed a drug deal between him and the Neon Vipers. He wasn''t personally there but had proxies take care of the exchange. Based on their interaction, they''re on familiar terms, and they clearly had a history together. Whatever is brewing, the Vipers are in with Salvatore."

    Elijah''s scowl deepened. He rolled his neck, cracking the bones audibly. "I fucking knew it. I told you not to trust the Vipers, Bill. Now they''re in bed with the goddamn Mad Chemist!"

    "Don''t be so hasty," Bill shot back, lifting a finger in warning. "That doesn''t automatically equate them to being complicit. We need proof that directly connects the Vipers to Salvatore, not mere speculation."

    Ray ignored the pair as they argued back and forth, his gaze drifting toward the skyline. After several seconds, he spoke again, his voice softer and more contemplative. "My men had been keeping tabs on the Neon Viper''s movements lately. Heard from the echoes in the alley that someone''s set up a facility to cook something nasty."

    He rubbed his chin with a gloved hand, tapping his fingers absentmindedly. "When I sent some to snoop around, they all got killed...except for one who came back. He told me that Axion was the one who killed them. Apparently, she was serving as their guard dog." Ray glanced at Virgil. "What do you think of that, Maddox? Coincidence? Or are you claiming responsibility?"

    "I''m not. Axion would never work with the Neon Vipers," Virgil replied, his expression unchanged. "Your guy probably got pressured into lying to you by the one who actually killed your men. I''m more surprised that you fell for that nonsense."

    A heavy sigh escaped Ray''s mask, causing the oscillations in the lights to become increasingly erratic, mimicking the cadence of his words. "Son...of...a...bitch. You have no idea the headache you''re giving me, Maddox. You better hope that''s true, otherwise, we may have a problem, you and I. You following me?"

    "Yeah. Loud and clear, Reverb," Virgil muttered, rolling his eyes. "Just for the record, you sound like a dying cricket when you sigh."

    Bill held up a hand, cutting off the exchange. "Enough with the dick-measuring contest; this isn''t the time. Focus. Maddox, assuming what you''re saying is true, and the Vipers are connected to Salvatore, we could potentially cut the root of the problem at the source. By dealing with them, we also take out a competitor and eliminate a major supplier of ''Shiver'' in the process. Two birds, one stone, and all that." He folded his arms, glancing over at Kareem. "Or is that too messy for you?"

    "Don''t speak for the Legion," the towering man growled, fixing him with a stern look. "We''re barely tolerating your organ harvesting business, Donovan. Don''t push your luck. Otherwise, the Red Market Syndicate will have a new gang war to contend with." He cracked his knuckles for emphasis.

    "Charming," Bill chuckled, ignoring the threat. "Hammer, if I may offer some advice. It''s always easier to go for the biggest, meatiest targets. They bleed the most, and you get the greatest rewards. Cutting the head off a snake and all that. Nothing personal, you understand, of course. I''m merely stating a fact, friend. Remember: the slums are a jungle, and we''re the hunters."

    "Stuff the posturing; no one''s buying it," Elijah scoffed, glaring at Bill. "Look, let''s get to the point: we have a common threat. The Mad Chemist. This is about saving face and cutting out a thorn in our side, not a fucking charity operation. Everyone gets their pound of flesh. Understand? Even the Metropolis doesn''t care about what happens in the slums, especially if we solve their problem for them."

    Kareem remained silent, weighing the options with a distant look in his eyes. He paced the ground slowly, his heavy footsteps leaving indents in the damp earth. Eventually, he stopped in front of Virgil, sizing him up for a moment before speaking.

    "Maddox, why go through the effort of arranging this meeting? You could''ve taken your concerns straight to the Vipers themselves. Why bother going to all the trouble of negotiating with us, instead of taking care of the problem by yourself?" He arched an eyebrow, peering intently at the gunslinger. "Explain yourself."

    Virgil met his scrutiny calmly, holding his gaze without flinching. "Like I said, I''m mainly here to make a bargain¡ªrecede the bounty on Axion; call it off. In exchange, she''ll be willing to work with you in stopping Salvatore''s schemes. He''s the bigger target, and we want him taken out."

    "Work with us?" Kareem echoed, raising an eyebrow. "Define that for me, please. Because when you say that, it implies that she''ll be under my employ."

    "It''s simple: she won''t interfere with your operations unless you actively cross her path, and she will do everything within her power to stop the Mad Chemist. It''s mutually beneficial in the end."

    A grim laugh escaped the towering man''s lips, and he shook his head in disbelief. "That''s not how I recall you working, Maddox. From what I''ve seen, your methods tend to involve more death and destruction. How is this supposed to reassure me?"

    "Because my partner is nothing like me," Virgil retorted, locking eyes with the gang lieutenant. "Trust me, she''s an idealist at heart; she wants to make a difference in the slums, and she believes she can. Take her to task for that." He adjusted his hat, glancing at Kareem. "Does this seem acceptable to you, Hammer?"

    The burly gangster remained silent for several long moments, and his brow creased as he considered the proposal. He stroked his chin thoughtfully, his eyes distant and unfocused.

    Eventually, he lifted his head, his gaze sharpening as it settled upon Virgil. "Acceptable? Hardly. It''s far too generous of a deal for you to be making, which leads me to believe there''s a catch. An angle. I''m just not seeing it. Besides, the Legion doesn''t need help from one lone Super."

    Elijah grunted, narrowing his eyes. "Goddamn right, what''s one little Super girl gonna do that we can''t handle by ourselves, huh? Do you take us for idiots?"

    Bill chuckled darkly, winking. "Who knows, maybe Maddox is just hedging his bets? Can''t blame the man for trying. I''d probably do the same thing. But I agree, that''s far too much of a concession for us to grant, wouldn''t you say? Two million ChitCreds buys a lot of loyalty from the slums, more than what your little hero can offer."

    Virgil exhaled, clenching his jaw. "So I take it that you''ll need further convincing?"

    "Bingo." Bill flashed him a crooked grin, nodding in amusement. "Sorry to disappoint, old friend. A shame, but we can''t be too careful when making deals with someone from outside our ranks. You understand, right?"

    Virgil''s expression hardened as he scanned the group, noting their collective defiance. Their minds seemed to be made up; they had no intention of changing their stance anytime soon.

    "Well, guess it''s time for plan B."

 Chapter 53: Ultimatum

    Axion saw the signal¡ªVirgil tipping the brim of his hat upwards, exposing his face. This meant the talk with the gangs went sour; he''d need her support. She closed her eyes and focused, activating her power.

    Her body felt lighter as the pull of gravity lessened, and she took a running leap off the rooftop. She soared through the air, shifting the direction of the nearly invisible eddies that surrounded her to propel her forward. A breathless sensation gripped her lungs as she flew, the rush of wind rushing past her.

    She kept her eyes fixed on the courtyard below as she maneuvered deftly through the sky, navigating the twists and turns of the slums while calculating her descent as she drew nearer. She slowed her pace as she approached, dropping to the ground beside Virgil and skidding to a halt, sending dirt and gravel scattering. She stood, brushing herself off before turning to address the four gang leaders.

    "Hiya! Sorry for being late; traffic was terrible."

    The four gang lieutenants stared at her, stunned into silence by her sudden arrival.

    "Now, see here, where the hell did¡ª" Bill started, his voice rising to a frenzied pitch. He cut himself off mid-sentence, blinking and rubbing his eyes as he did a double-take.

    Axion smiled brightly behind her helmet visor, waving to them. She deliberately made the gesture broad and exaggerated to contrast their wary, guarded postures. "Good evening! Pleased to make your acquaintance. My name''s Axion. Nice to meet y''all." Her tone remained cheery despite the hostility in the air. "I couldn''t help but overhear you guys talking about me. That''s why I dropped in."

    Virgil allowed himself a moment to savor the scene, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as he watched the gang lieutenants'' reaction. "Well now, don''t you guys just look thrilled to see my partner. Go on, introduce yourselves. Be polite. She deserves it." He grinned wolfishly as their shock began to fade, replaced by indignant outrage. "I''ll even start¡ªthis here''s ''Hammer'' Kareem, the Ironclad Legion''s fearless second-in-command."

    The imposing gangster didn''t reply; instead, his jaw clenched shut as his eyes burned holes through Virgil. Kareem''s fingers twitched as if aching for a weapon to draw. The sentiment was returned, but Virgil kept a cool facade.

    "And that''s ''Butcher'' Bill Donovan, a regular jack-of-all-trades who''s an expert in handling body disposal, organ harvesting, and bloodletting, among other things. Not the most charming person, but he''s well-connected and knows his way around the underground black markets."

    Bill gritted his teeth, muttering something under his breath but otherwise refrained from interrupting. Instead, he fumbled in his coat pockets, digging through them frantically. He pulled out a cigar, and a lighter followed shortly after. He lit the cigar with a shaky hand, puffing a cloud of smoke into the air.

    "That fella right there is ''Reverb'' Ray, from the Echo Syndicate." Virgil pointed a thumb at the masked gangster, gesturing in his direction. "Can''t say I''m all too fond of that mask he wears; the damned thing gives me a migraine when he speaks. But, if you like obnoxious-sounding tech, then it''s a good fit for him, I suppose."

    The mask''s lights flickered momentarily before steadying again. A soft electronic hiss emanated from the speaker embedded in the apparatus. "Tread lightly, Maddox. Words like that carry consequences. Consequences you won''t enjoy."

    Virgil ignored him and continued without missing a beat, pointing to the final member of the party. "And last but not least, that over-glorified shadow of a man is ''The Enforcer'' Elijah Gray; the Ashen Hand''s resident enforcer and dirty work specialist. Always looking for opportunities to break knees and snap necks. Has a reputation for enjoying his job a tad too much, in my opinion. But, hey, to each their own."

    The man in question regarded Virgil with an icy glare, his fists clenched at his sides. He turned his attention to Axion, his stare penetrating through the helmet''s tinted visor as though trying to discern her features. "What, too afraid to show your face, girl? Afraid we might recognize you?"

    Axion met his gaze steadily, unintimidated by the barb.

    Virgil had already briefed her about all of them ahead of time. These were dangerous people who could cause real trouble for her, and he wanted her to understand what they were walking into. But the most surprising thing she learned from his explanations was that these four gang lieutenants...were metahumans.

    That was new. She, and probably most of the people living here, always assumed that Metas only lived in the metropolis or the cities outside of the slums. The thought of Metas within the slums¡ªor, worse, in positions of power¡ªnever crossed her mind. Until recently.

    Axion pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the present. She''d expected them to be on edge and hostile, but it didn''t make their behavior any less irksome. She cleared her throat politely, breaking the silence.

    "Sorry. Having a secret identity is part of the whole superhero gig. I don''t want people like you knowing who I am or where I live; you know, in case you or one of your henchmen comes after me later. For safety reasons." She paused, gauging their reactions. "Anyways, that''s not important right now. I''m here to ask politely for you guys to cancel the bounty on me. Just calling it off entirely would be swell. Dealing with waves of street thugs and gangsters every day is getting real annoying real quick, and I''m not even making a joke when I say that."

    Her attempt at levity fell flat, the gang leaders'' expressions remaining stony and inscrutable. She shrugged, adjusting her posture to strike a more authoritative pose, hoping to project confidence and self-assurance. "Here''s the thing: I know none of you guys like me, and I''m cool with that. The feeling is mutual. The problem is I have something to do, and I can''t do it if I''m busy fighting off every street thug or two-bit criminal with a knife and a vendetta.

    "I don''t have the time to do that, and I don''t appreciate being harassed. I''m not out here just to beat people up, you know? I can do other things to help make the slums a better place. Things you might appreciate or even benefit from, provided we can come to an agreement. Am I wrong?"

    There, she''d done her best to make her intentions known and extend a friendly olive branch. She hoped they would at least take her seriously.

    An uncomfortable silence settled over the group as each of the gang leaders processed what she''d said.

    Axion shuffled uncomfortably under their scrutinizing gazes, nervously fiddling with the zipper on her jacket. Meanwhile, Virgil took a drag of his cigarette, blowing a stream of smoke into the air while waiting patiently for them to respond.

    Finally, Kareem spoke. His deep baritone voice filled the space. "Let''s get one thing straight: I don''t know you, don''t like you, and certainly don''t trust you. Yet. More importantly, you''re a nuisance in our territory, and I''m not here to make friends, girlie. If anything, you should be grateful we haven''t sent an entire army of hired guns after you. And even now, we can still arrange for that to happen." He flexed his arms, emphasizing his point. "Unless that''s what you want, you''d better have a good reason for me to sit and listen to what you have to say."

    Axion looked back at Virgil; he gave a slight nod, signaling for her to continue.

    Right...Plan B, Phase Two then.

    Without another word, she turned her gaze to the scattered debris around the courtyard, concentrating and extending the field of her gravikinesis to encompass the rubble.

    With a sudden sharp upward gesture, large chunks of debris and concrete tore from the ground, levitating several meters in the air and orbiting around her.

    The gang leaders blinked in surprise, backing away as the objects surrounded them, hovering ominously overhead.

    She then shifted her gaze towards the four and gestured downward with her other hand.

    They''re Metahumans, so I should use an appropriate force to bring them down.

    Immediately, the group sank to their knees, gasping in shock as they struggled to rise, only to find themselves pinned to the ground. Kareem''s muscles bulged against the force, his body trembling as he strained to resist. Bill and Elijah also grunted and groaned, their faces contorting with exertion as they fought to move. Ray''s mask emitted a strained buzz, the lights flickering erratically as he clawed at the dirt beneath him.

    Despite their resistance, she held firm, keeping them rooted in place. As the pressure increased, Axion frowned, leaning forward and applying a bit more weight to her invisible burden. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and her breath caught in her throat as she poured her focus into maintaining the intense gravitational field on them while keeping the debris positioned above.

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    "This could be over you, or through you," she stated, her voice low and steady. "Your choice. I''m not messing around. If you keep messing with me, I''ll crush you like ants."

    Please let this be enough to convince them. Come on, cooperate, don''t fight back; I don''t wanna hurt anyone. At least not yet. Please don''t test me.

    "What...the fuck...do you think...you''re doing, bitch!" Bill exclaimed, his voice punctuated by strained breaths and ragged wheezes.

    "Trying to give you incentive," she responded, watching them struggle. "Not doing so well, unfortunately. Think of this as a demonstration, not an attack. You see, I''ve got the power, and now you have a glimpse of how far I''m willing to go."

    To demonstrate, she held the rubble over their heads in an implied threat, pausing before she brought her hands closer together and the rubble constricted slightly. She made sure to hold back as much as possible, maintaining an equilibrium between them and the force pressing against them. But if they tried fighting back, all bets were off.

    She paid close attention to "The Enforcer" Elijah. Virgil warned her specifically about him; he had the ability to turn into a smog-like substance and reform wherever he pleased. So, if he attempted to escape, she''d have to be ready to follow up with something to seal him. Hopefully, it wouldn''t come to that, though.

    "Look," Axion began, softening her tone. "Despite what this looks like, I''m not here to start a war. But I''m not about to let anyone push me around, either. We can stay here all day, throwing our weight around, or you guys can stand up and play nice, and we can talk like adults." She paused, waiting for the impact of her words to sink in. "Now, the ball''s in your court. What''s it gonna be?"

    Please, please cooperate. I don''t think I can hold th¡ªuh oh, my nose is bleeding...

    Another tense silence hung over them like a heavy fog before Kareem finally spoke. "Fine. Release us." The man grunted, struggling to keep to his knees. "We''ll...play your game for now. This round''s yours. Next one, we''ll see. So be it."

    Thank God...I''m starting to feel light-headed.

    With a wave of her hand, Axion released them. The debris landed on the ground, forming a pile of dust and debris that blanketed the courtyard.

    The gang lieutenants stood shakily, rubbing their shoulders and massaging their limbs.

    Kareem shook his head as though to clear away cobwebs, while Ray''s mask emitted a loud pop as the lights brightened, returning to normal. Elijah and Bill coughed, dusting themselves off. They glanced at each other uneasily, and she noticed Elijah shoot a hateful glance at Virgil, who merely shrugged in response, chuckling quietly.

    She didn''t find the situation funny at all; holding down multiple metahumans wasn''t exactly easy work. Still, she hadn''t lost control and managed to prove her point. That was something to celebrate. She swallowed the lump in her throat, trying to quell the throbbing pain in her skull.

    Virgil leaned forward, grinding his cigarette out on the sole of his boot. "Just so you all know, if I were to fight all four of you at once right now, it''d be a pain in the ass but I reckon I''d be able to kill you motherfuckers before I croak. Or at least maim you. Just because we fought to a draw last time doesn''t mean that I was fighting you with everything I had. If you think I''m lying then we can schedule a death match anytime after this."

    He slowly straightened, hooking his thumbs around his belt. His voice darkened as he locked eyes with the four. "Right now, she might still be green behind the ears, but as far as raw power goes, she''s much stronger than I am. Killin'' you lot is child''s play for her now; she''s practically a god in the slums.

    "The reason why she''s been passive and patient until now is to avoid killing or maiming the ones that go after her. A decision that I disagree with, but that''s her call. A fool''s errand, if you ask me. Point is, you have an opportunity to avoid that mess. One that I''d suggest you don''t waste."

    Axion slowly turned her head to stare at Virgil, surprised by his assessment.

    W-what the hell are you talking about, dude?! That''s all sizzle, no steak!

    Did he really mean what he said or was he exaggerating to get their attention? Was he trying to intimidate them into cooperating, or did he honestly believe what he was saying? It was hard to tell sometimes with him, given how straightforward he normally behaved. It was probably a combination of both.

    Still...if they called his bluff and decided to gang up on her, she didn''t have high hopes of coming out unscathed. Her head swam as she struggled to keep her legs from wobbling. She couldn''t even wipe her nosebleed.

    God, I''m already exhausted. That drained more out of me than I expected...

    Virgil''s earlier advice echoed in the back of her mind: "Exert maximum effort at the start, and don''t underestimate their strength. Get out on top and don''t give them room to breathe."

    Taking a deep breath, Axion steeled her nerves as she addressed the group of gang lieutenants once more. "So, we got off to a rough start, which sucks, but let''s try this again. Without threats or tricks or fights this time."

    She waited for them to regain their composure, giving them time to collect themselves.

    Kareem dusted himself off, fixing a cool, appraising gaze upon her. "Alright, maybe you''re not quite the pushover I initially thought." He smirked, rolling his shoulders to relieve the tension. "Color me impressed. I take back what I said earlier; I underestimated you. That''s on me."

    Bill flashed a cocky grin, lighting another cigar. "Got a few tricks up your sleeves, eh, girlie? Good, that''ll make things more interesting."

    "Hmph, as if." Elijah scoffed, his gaze flitting between Virgil and Axion. "But I will admit you''re not useless, especially with that ability of yours. Even I might not be able to kill you, not easily, anyways."

    Ray''s mask remained silent, its lights dimmed as it resumed a normal hue.

    Axion glanced at Virgil, unsure of what else to say.

    A slight smirk played across his face as he raised his eyebrows and nodded once. He crossed his arms and leaned back, signaling that the ball was in her court.

    Right, well, I guess that''s better than outright hostility. Okay, now what?

    "So you''ll cancel that bounty on me?" she asked cautiously, not wanting to give them any false hope.

    "That''s the thing: the bounty''s not ours to cancel," Kareem replied, frowning. "We can relay your request to our respective bosses, but they''ll be the ones making the final decisions."

    Oh, of course...why am I not surprised.

    "That''s the only concession we can give you. For now, anyway," Bill added, drawing on his cigar. "You can consider it as good as canceled, though. Word will get out that the syndicates backed out of the bounty. Anyone dumb enough to act on their own will be your problem. We won''t be held accountable for that."

    Axion rubbed the back of her neck, processing his words. Well, that was better than nothing, at least. "Yeah, okay. Fair enough. Thank you. I can work with that, and I''m cool with playing the wait and see game."

    "The only condition is we get to lay down the rules," Ray interjected. His distorted, electronically enhanced voice resonated throughout the space, reverberating in her ears. "First: we don''t cross paths, at least for now. Stay out of our business, and we''ll stay out of yours."

    "Second: leave our strongholds alone. Do not infiltrate any of our bases or establishments, period," Kareem chimed in. "And third: do not interfere in any gang wars we are involved in. Got it? Simple, isn''t it? Rules are easy to follow."

    Axion hesitated for a moment before responding. "Sure, fine. I can work with those rules. As long as you guys stay in line, we won''t have any problems."

    "Those apply to you, too, Maddox." Elijah growled, glowering at Virgil. "You''d better make sure your pet stays in line. If she steps out of bounds, there''ll be hell to pay, and we both know who''ll pay for it. Don''t we?"

    Virgil rolled his eyes. "Goddamn, I''d forgotten how melodramatic you lot could get. Are we done here? Because if that''s all, then let''s get the hell out of here already."

    ''Reverb'' Ray was the first to leave, leaving a trail of faint electronic echoes in his wake. "The Enforcer" Elijah followed suit, shifting into a cloud of smoke that whisked into the air, fading from view.

    ''Hanmer'' Kareem cracked his knuckles, nodding at Virgil and Axion in acknowledgment before turning and heading through another alleyway. "Don''t make us regret this, girlie. Be seeing you around. You too, Backfire."

    ''Butcher'' Bill gave Axion a slow once-over, flashing a crooked smile as he blew a ring of smoke in her direction. "If you ever feel like working for a real organization, come join the Red Market Syndicate. You might find some interesting job opportunities. We''ve got connections, after all, and I can put in a good word for you."

    Axion bit back an annoyed retort, not wanting to give him a chance to get under her skin. "I''ll pass. Thanks for the offer, though. It''s not what I''m looking for."

    With a shrug, Bill flicked the remains of his cigar at their feet and casually strolled away, humming a jaunty tune.

    The pair watched in silence as the gang members dispersed, disappearing into various side alleys. Soon, only they remained in the courtyard. The adrenaline rush that accompanied her brief show of force evaporated, and Axion felt suddenly deflated and tired.

    After a moment, she turned to Virgil. "How do you think that went?"

    He clicked his tongue and shrugged. "Eh, not bad. It could''ve gone a lot worse."

    "Do you think they''ll keep their promise?"

    "Most likely, yeah. You showed them what you could do and laid out some terms they couldn''t argue with. But these guys aren''t the end-all-be-all in the grand scheme of things. They report to their bosses. Fortunately, they''ll respect your ultimatum."

    From the corner of her eye, Axion spotted the old woman named Nara stepping into the courtyard, hobbling towards them with the use of a cane.

    "Oi, you two, I assume you''ve taken care of business? Make a big commotion in my area, but you ain''t even going to apologize to me? Tsk, tsk."

    Virgil gave a half-hearted, dismissive wave, making his way through the alley they arrived from. "I didn''t break any rules, old hag. No blood was spilled, no shots were fired; no harm done. It''s all in your head, stop nagging."

    Nara tapped her cane in annoyance, glancing at the crumbling buildings surrounding her. "Cheeky bastard...running your mouth, always doing whatever you damn well please. Go on, get lost, both of you."

    Axion bowed in deference to the elderly woman before hurrying to catch up with Virgil.

    But before she could take one step, Nara grabbed her by the hand, stopping her in her tracks. "Wait. You''re not leaving until you put everything that you moved back where they belong."

    Axion froze. Slowly, she turned and surveyed the surroundings: all the debris she''d levitated, all the trash and other items that she''d torn from the ground. Each sat in a heap on the pavement, completely forgotten. The realization of what she''d done struck her, and she winced sheepishly.

    "Um, oops...?"

 Chapter 54: Overworked

    Edith sighed, massaging the bridge of her nose as she watched the footage of Axion''s meeting with the gang lieutenants. It had been a tense conversation, but the girl had managed to establish some kind of tentative truce. A win, albeit a small one.

    As she reviewed the footage, she noted that Axion''s gravikinesis appeared to be improving, at least in terms of its range and stability. Her TFSI reading stayed low, but her EEG readings spiked dramatically compared to her previous metrics. Maybe there was an inverse correlation between them?

    If she used her gravikinesis to affect herself or objects within her vicinity, then her TFSI reading would increase while her EEG activity stayed relatively stable. However, the more she extended her reach to objects beyond her immediate sphere of influence, the lower her TFSI reading would be while her EEG activity increased.

    Was the former tied to a conscious exertion of gravitons, and the latter associated with a subconscious generation of them? She still needed to dig deeper. Regardless, this was still promising progress. Now, they just needed to iron out some of the finer details...and expand Fii''s arsenal of abilities.

    She stepped back from the monitors, chewing on a thumbnail thoughtfully.

    All that was well and good, but the real problem was the amount of Metahumans that resided within the slums.

    Edith thought that the only Metahuman who resided in the slums had been Virgil.

    There was no news or gossip of any roaming around causing trouble since she''d moved here over a year ago. Even experts from the Metropolis had assumed this was the case, thanks to the general lack of information.

    But now...not only did she find out that a guy named Kenzo was one, but apparently, the sub-leaders of the four major gangs were all also Metahumans. Add Virgil into the mix, and that made six known Metas in the slums. Seven, if you counted Fii.

    Apart from them, were there any others? How many lived hidden in the slums?

    Wait¡ªso... Virgil knew that she was clueless when she told him that Fii was the first metahuman born in the slums. Then why the hell didn''t he correct her?

    Rrrgh...that infuriatingly stubborn jerkface. He must''ve enjoyed that little moment of his...

    It''s as if he gets off on flaunting his knowledge while knowing more than he lets on. I''ll strangle him for this, I swear.

    Edith huffed and adjusted the hem of her coat, stomping around her lab in annoyance. The irony of her situation was not lost on her. Here she was, a researcher who''d dedicated her career to the pursuit of knowledge, and yet a simple gun-toting vigilante knew more than she did. The more she dwelt on this, the angrier she became.

    Well, screw that. At least he still believed that Fii was a natural Metahuman, as opposed to a product of her genetic tampering. Right now, that was the only silver lining she could think of.

    Helix''s monotone voice drew her from her thoughts.

    [Dr. Weiss, the analysis of the venom and Shiver samples is complete. As suspected, parts of their chemical compositions contain compounds that may increase the effectiveness of the metahuman serum by a small margin. However, without further research and testing, it is impossible to determine the actual efficacy of such a combination.]

    "Hmm, is that so..." Edith mused, leaning against her desk and tapping her chin. "Give me a summary of the details."

    Helix responded immediately.

    [The venom sample contains a combination of alkaloids, peptides, and proteins in its neurotoxin. These components have the potential to increase the serum''s absorption rate and cellular metabolism, potentially enhancing the transformation.]

    Edith nodded, intrigued. "And the Shiver sample?"

    [Similarly, the opioid compound found in the Shiver sample can improve the serum''s delivery mechanism, increasing the likelihood of the genetic modifications taking root.]

    "Interesting." Edith narrowed her eyes, pacing across the room. "But, combining these samples poses a risk of adverse reactions. Unless we isolate and synthesize the useful components individually, integrating the ingredients would require significant adjustments to the serum. Is there any other possibility?"

    [Negative. The current data does not indicate the presence of similar compounds within the metahuman genome itself.]

    Helix''s sensors whirred quietly as it analyzed additional information.

    [However, if we are able to analyze the Adrenomancer formula, we may gain more insight.]

    "Are you referring to Salvatore''s original formula?" Edith paused in her stride, crossing her arms as she considered Helix''s proposal.

    Ever since Virgil had brought up the topic of the Mad Chemist, she''d been unable to shake off the idea of uncovering the secret behind the Adrenomancer formula.

    The implications of being able to reverse-engineer and adapt the drug for her experiments would be huge, but also dangerous. From what she''d researched, the formula contained highly unstable substances that required a complex synthesis. An unrefined mixture could potentially kill the user before any beneficial effects manifested.

    Moreover, Salvatore guarded his secrets closely. Information about the specific ingredients, their quantities, and how the drug was delivered was not readily available.

    On top of that, Salvatore was still active. He ran his operations from the Metropolis and owned several subsidiaries. He also had a network of black market dealers and chemists producing various drugs for distribution in the underworld. The chances of him noticing anyone attempting to replicate the Adrenomancer formula were fairly high.

    But, if he was stirring up trouble in the slums, then maybe he would send more Adrenomancers to deal with the nuisance. Not to mention that Axion might come face-to-face with them. That in itself would provide an invaluable opportunity for her to acquire a sample of the drug.

    "Helix, what do you suppose is the chance of Salvatore implementing a fail-safe on the Adrenomancers that get captured? I''m specifically referring to an automatic kill switch of some sort, an in-built toxin, perhaps. Or maybe a dead man''s switch...something like that." Edith stopped pacing and gazed at the screen as she awaited Helix''s reply.

    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    [Probability is high. Based on the data I''ve analyzed from past reports, Salvatore appeared to have incorporated a "dead man''s switch" within their genomes.]

    The monitor shifted to display footage of Adrenomancers that had been captured by Superheroes in the past.

    [These Adrenomancers suffered severe seizures before they expired, likely as a result of an agent being released within their system. Reasons for their deaths remain unclear; however, a 92% probability exists that they resulted from internal causes.]

    Edith frowned at the footage, noting how each Adrenomancer experienced intense muscle convulsions before they perished.

    "What about the harness that they wear? Does Salvatore install any fail-safes into the device itself? Has anything of the sort been mentioned in the reports?" She kept her eyes on the screen as she continued analyzing the video.

    [Affirmative. There have been no reports of the Adrenomancer Harness being recovered intact. The mechanisms of the device, along with the chemicals used, are either destroyed or damaged beyond recognition. Furthermore, the harness cannot be removed by the user; failure to do so results in catastrophic repercussions to the subject.]

    Helix''s mechanical voice rang in the lab as the image switched to several images of Adrenomancers whose harnesses were detached, resulting in them bleeding profusely.

    The devices were covered with numerous tubes and wires connected to the user. The metallic braces wrapped snugly around their bodies, tightly securing each component in place. The harness seemed to function like a pump or container, pumping a steady stream of chemicals into the body while monitoring the user''s vital signs.

    If they tried removing the harness or if the device malfunctioned, their bodies would experience massive cardiovascular failure and acute neurological dysfunction. All the drugs and chemicals integrated into the harness acted as a failsafe. Either the device stayed intact, or the user died.

    With a sigh, Edith sat in front of the computer and propped her head on her elbows.

    The implication was clear: obtaining an undamaged harness, and therefore the recipe for the Adrenomancer formula, was tantamount to a pipe dream.

    Salvatore wouldn''t willingly let his secret fall into enemy hands; the chances of salvaging an intact harness were slim to none. And the Adrenomancers weren''t known to surrender. Most chose to self-destruct rather than be apprehended. The only way to get the information she desired was to capture Salvatore himself.

    Unless...unless I can convince him to share the formula voluntarily...somehow. Hmmm, just need to figure out how. Perhaps I can barter for a trade, or maybe bribe him in some way. This requires more thought.

    [Is there a directive for my next actions, Dr. Weiss?] Helix inquired, awaiting instruction.

    The AI''s question snapped Edith from her musings as she waved her hand dismissively. "No, carry on with monitoring Fii and helping me with research. You should probably update me with any developments with those four gang leaders'' movements, too. I doubt they''re just sitting at home doing nothing."

    [The surveillance drones have been deployed according to protocol, and the monitoring algorithm is fully operational. My network is searching for possible matches on the four targets'' descriptions. There are no relevant updates regarding their movements at this time, but I will notify you of any developments. Should I continue my work on the metahuman database, Dr. Weiss?]

    "Yes, I''d appreciate that, Helix. Keep up the good work," Edith muttered, rubbing her temples as a headache started to creep in. It''d been a long day, and she was exhausted. All she wanted to do was crawl into bed and sleep.

    With one last glance at the screens, she pushed herself up from her chair, gathering her tablet and notes as she shuffled towards her office door.

    [Sleep well, Dr. Weiss] came the AI''s reply as the lights in the lab dimmed, shutting off one by one.

    <hr>

    The clinic''s door swung open, revealing Edith in her usual lab coat, disheveled and tired. Fii instinctively straightened, waiting for the doctor to address her. However, her gaze lingered on the older woman, studying her as she closed the door.

    Is she okay? She doesn''t look well.

    Fii wasn''t sure, but Edith looked paler, more haggard, and more stressed than the day before¡ªas though she''d slept less than she usually did, and if that was the case, Fii couldn''t blame her. The incident in the slums had been stressful for Fii; she couldn''t imagine how nerve-racking it''d been for Edith to watch and listen from afar.

    "Hey Edith," she said softly, watching the older woman enter the examination room.

    "Hey," Edith grumbled, wiping a sleeve across her forehead. She set the tablet down and collapsed into her swivel chair, rubbing her temples and closing her eyes.

    Fii hopped off the hospital bed, padding over to her. "Can I get you some water? Coffee?" She rested a hand gently on Edith''s shoulder, hesitating for a moment before squeezing gently. "You look like you could use some."

    Edith leaned into the touch, a ghost of a smile gracing her lips as she opened her eyes and gave Fii a weak nod. "Actually, that sounds lovely. Thank you, Fii." She patted her arm gently, chuckling despite her exhaustion. "And yes, I''m all right, thank you. Just a bit...busy, is all. Had to juggle work and my other projects."

    "Hm. Yeah, I bet," Fii murmured, raising an eyebrow.

    That was an understatement.

    She recalled the last time she''d seen Edith this frazzled: the day after Virgil had decided to bring Kenzo on board. Afterward, she''d been moodier, crankier, and more short-tempered. Today, she seemed like she could use a nap. An afternoon one, at that.

    Fii shook her head, returning her attention to the matter at hand. "I''ll go get you some coffee," she offered, turning towards the exit. "Be right back!"

    "Mmm, please, and thank you. Two sugars and creamer, as usual."

    Fii walked through the lobby to the adjacent lounge and filled a mug with steaming coffee from the kitchenette. She stirred in sugar and creamer and carefully carried the drink back to the exam room.

    As she passed by the reception counter, she saw Sheri and a few of the nurses sitting in the main waiting area, talking amongst themselves. The clinic wasn''t particularly busy today, so most patients had already left. Sheri and the others were probably staying a little longer to catch up before finishing their shifts.

    Upon entering the exam room, she found the doctor slumped back in her seat, eyes closed and breathing deeply. She''d fallen asleep.

    Fii glanced between Edith and the mug of coffee, not wanting to disturb her rest. So, she gingerly set the cup on the table and hovered a hand above the doctor''s shoulder.

    Should I wake her? Nah, best let her rest...

    Carefully, Fii lifted Edith''s sleeping form and carried her to the nearby hospital bed, lowering her gently onto the sheets. She arranged her comfortably, removing her shoes and slipping a pillow beneath her head. As she tucked the blanket over her, she hesitated, brushing a strand of hair out of her eyes and studying her face.

    Despite the tired circles under her eyes, Edith looked almost peaceful as she slept.

    Geez, how much is she pushing herself? Poor Edith...

    It took Fii a moment to realize that she hadn''t spent time with her recently; between training with Virgil and Kenzo, hanging out with Quinn, and patrolling as Axion, her schedule had been packed. Plus, Edith was constantly cooped up in the lab, buried in work. They hadn''t eaten together or spoken at length for a couple of months now. The only interactions they had were during Fii''s biweekly checkups and in passing.

    They should talk more; Edith always seemed to enjoy her company, and Fii was more than happy to help out wherever she could.

    For now, though, she needed to leave her alone and let her get her much-needed rest. Fii picked up the cup of coffee from the desk and set it down on the nightstand beside the bed. She then picked up a book from her bag and made herself comfortable, opening it to her bookmark.

    Fii could read for hours, but it never ceased to amaze her how quickly she could go through books these days. It hadn''t taken her long to finish the story about a prince trying to escape the curse placed upon him, but she''d enjoyed every minute of it. It''d reminded her a lot about what happened in the slums, as the prince had to overcome his dark fate by rising against his circumstances. Sometimes, stories were nice because they mirrored her own. She wasn''t a fan of the bitter parts, but she always relished the sweetness that followed.

    Speaking of books...she almost forgot about asking Edith for pointers on how to properly teach people to read and write. That''d be a good topic to chat about next time.

 Chapter 55: Hit Squad Arrives

    A month after that meeting with the Big Four''s lieutenants, things had finally quieted down around the slums. For now, at least. After the encounter, Axion remained wary of any possible traps the gang might''ve laid for her, but it seemed they''d respected her conditions, even if the uneasy truce felt more like an unspoken agreement than a concrete rule.

    She resumed her patrols, trying to maintain her routine, but so far, everything appeared to be business as usual. Things were, generally speaking, safe¡ªas safe as a normal day in the slums could get, anyway.

    In the meantime, Axion focused on helping people out where she could.

    Ever since her power''s range expanded to twenty meters, the number of things she could do with gravikinesis increased exponentially. She didn''t need to be within arm''s reach to move or lift objects now, and she found that she could manipulate multiple objects simultaneously with greater ease.

    On top of that, she could control heavier objects at higher distances. It didn''t take her as much effort to adjust to larger loads anymore. In fact, she found herself picking up and levitating things without really needing to concentrate. That, in turn, helped her conserve her energy and stamina.

    During the times when she had to deal with thugs from small gangs or random street toughs, she didn''t even need to beat them up to make them stop. She''d just casually make them float a few meters in the air and spin them around a few times until they threw up, which usually got the point across.

    Slumshines liked to refer to this as her "broom technique." The name stuck, even among gangsters¡ªprobably because nobody could ever predict how and where they''d land. Most people didn''t want to find out.

    Right now, Axion stood atop a roof overlooking the streets below, scanning her surroundings. So far, no emergencies. A group of children chased one another through the winding pathways, laughing and yelling at each other playfully. Some adults lounged by fire barrels as they drank or played games, exchanging gossip and talking amongst themselves.

    Yup. Just a normal day in the neighborhood.

    Axion stretched her arms, flexing her fingers as she debated whether or not she should go somewhere else. It was boring standing still and doing nothing, and she wasn''t hungry yet. Maybe she could practice her gravikinesis exercises instead, test her speed, or work on her endurance. Or maybe she should hang out with Quinn or Edith.

    Decisions, decisions...

    <hr>

    Kasumi paced the warehouse floor, her footsteps echoing off the walls. She had been waiting for Salvatore''s agents for over an hour, and the longer she waited, the angrier she became. Kasumi hated waiting; she preferred to be in control, and now, she had no control whatsoever. Salvatore had orchestrated the meeting, and Kasumi could only hope he didn''t have ulterior motives.

    Suddenly, the sound of the warehouse door sliding open reached her ears, and five Adrenomancers strode into the room.

    Kasumi had encountered Adrenomancers before, but these five were unlike any she had seen.

    The first was tall and broad-shouldered, with a harness crisscrossing his body. He had a confident stride, his fists clenched tightly as if ready for a fight.

    The second was shorter, with wires snaking around his body and glowing blue lights embedded in his outfit. She could smell electricity crackling in the air around him, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end as he passed.

    The third Adrenomancer walked with a swagger, as if he owned the place, and he carried a stack of knives tucked into his belt. Kasumi noticed his hands were constantly moving, twitching and fidgeting with each other, like he was always on the verge of drawing a weapon.

    The fourth Adrenomancer kept her distance, pacing several meters away from the others. She wore a mask with two brightly lit eyes that pierced the darkness of the room. The lenses flashed periodically, emitting a low hum. Kasumi sensed a deep unease in her gait; the woman moved as if she didn''t want to be there, as if she didn''t trust any of the others. Kasumi knew that feeling all too well.

    The last Adrenomancer¡ªwho she assumed was their leader¡ªstrolled forward, a wide, confident smile spread across his face. He paused a few meters in front of Kasumi, his eyes locking with hers. Kasumi''s body stiffened instinctively, her muscles tensing as she fought to suppress a surge of adrenaline.

    "Nice to meet you, Cobra. The boss sends his regards and apologizes for his absence," the man said, his voice low and gruff. "Name''s Havoc. We''ve heard a lot about you. Look forward to working together, so you better make a good impression. Otherwise...well, that''s not for me to decide, right? That''s on you."

    Kasumi bristled at the remark, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Likewise," she spat. "I can''t say I''ve heard much about you. Not that I''ve inquired, either, given the circumstances. Frankly, this arrangement is a necessary inconvenience. Nothing more."

    Havoc chuckled. "Spicy, I like it. Alright, no chitchat. I''ll introduce the others. First up''s Raze." He jerked his thumb towards the burly Adrenomancer to his right, who glowered at Kasumi.

    "Next is Voltaire," he continued, gesturing to the electric Adrenomancer who stood a short distance away. Voltaire ignored her, his gaze fixed on the ground. Havoc then pointed to the knife-wielding Adrenomancer to his left and announced, "That''s Blitz."

    Finally, Havoc gestured to the masked Adrenomancer hovering near the warehouse''s entrance. "And lastly, that''s Mirage." Mirage gave a curt nod in Kasumi''s general direction, refusing to meet her eyes.

    Kasumi scrutinized each Adrenomancer, sizing them up. Raze was undoubtedly the muscle. Blitz and Voltaire didn''t seem all that impressive, although the former carried an ample arsenal of blades and gadgets. Mirage, however, gave Kasumi pause. Something felt off about the woman.

    "Not much for formalities, are you?" Havoc remarked. "Whatever, makes my life easier. Let''s skip the bullshit pleasantries, shall we?"

    Kasumi folded her arms, drumming her fingertips against her bicep impatiently. "Get to the point. What does Salvatore want? Why gather a team of Adrenomancers? Aren''t your kind better at running solo jobs?"

    "True, we prefer operating on our own," Havoc admitted, cracking his knuckles. "Boss says differently this time. Apparently, this job requires a group, and he handpicked us specifically."

    "What''s the goal? Your boss refused to elaborate," Kasumi pressed. She needed more details to determine whether Salvatore intended to screw her over. Given his penchant for secrecy, the probability seemed likely. "Explain. Now. I won''t repeat myself."

    Havoc grunted, shrugging nonchalantly. "He wants to capture that Axion girl, and he wants us to bring her in alive."

    He''s still obsessed over her? Kasumi stifled a scoff.

    Salvatore''s fixation baffled her. Why would he continue wasting time and resources on someone who didn''t pose a threat to whatever schemes he had planned with the Shiver as long as she remained ignorant? Sure, the bitch somehow caught wind of their drug deal that one time, but Kasumi had learned that the location had been compromised¡ªthe Neon Knights must have tipped Axion off.

    "Her bounty had already been rescinded. Why the obsession?" Kasumi demanded, raising an eyebrow. "Salvatore''s wasting his time. Focus on distributing the Shiver. That''s what matters."

    "Beats me. Since the other gangs don''t wanna touch the bounty anymore, boss figured he might as well send us in, and frankly, I''m not complaining. Easy money."

    Kasumi clenched her jaw. Salvatore must have something else up his sleeve, something he wasn''t sharing. It pissed her off, but at the same time, she didn''t particularly care about Axion. Sure, Kasumi did want to settle the score, but the bitch wasn''t a priority.

    "She''ll be your problem then. The Neon Vipers will stick with keeping this warehouse secure and distributing the Shiver," Kasumi declared coolly, tossing her ponytail over her shoulder. "Good luck tracking Axion down. Hope you Adrenomancers are competent."

    "Easy-peasy." Havoc grinned wolfishly, his teeth glistening in the dim light. "By the end of the week, we''ll have the little Super wrapped around our fingers, nice and docile, guaranteed."

    <hr>

    Axion yawned, stretching her arms and rotating her shoulders as she continued her brisk walk. So far, so uneventful. No emergencies, no disturbances, no calls for help. Hell, she had barely witnessed a single fight or disagreement, aside from the usual petty squabbles.

    Maybe today would be a lazy day. She could probably sit and relax, watch the crowds and clouds go by.

    Man, I''m bored.

    "Yo, Axion."

    Speaking of the crowds...

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    "Kenzo! Hey!"

    Axion waved enthusiastically, jogging over to greet the musician. Kenzo returned her greeting with a friendly smile, tucking his headphones around his neck. Unlike his usual hip-hop outfits, today he dressed relatively plainly: a simple pair of jeans and a hoodie, the latter zipped halfway. A few of his bandmates lingered behind, idling in the background.

    Kenzo leaned forward, lowering his voice. "Listen, I have a favor to ask. Mind if we talk somewhere private?"

    "Yeah, sure, no problem. What''s up?" Axion tilted her head curiously. She hadn''t interacted with Kenzo in a while, so this came as a surprise. Did he need help delivering a music demo or something? Oh! Maybe he wanted her opinion on a new song. Music was the last subject Axion considered herself an expert in, but Kenzo wouldn''t pick her brain randomly.

    Would he? Hmm. Probably not.

    "Follow me," Kenzo replied cryptically. Without further explanation, he sauntered away, waving at his bandmates to indicate he''d be back. Axion glanced over her shoulder, debating briefly before jogging after him.

    Kenzo led her further down the road, past rows of dilapidated, ramshackle homes. The crowded bustle gradually faded, and Axion''s curiosity grew the farther they went.

    Eventually, Kenzo turned a corner, veering into an abandoned, overgrown alley. Overhead, a series of electrical cables and pipes ran parallel to the uneven, crumbling brick walls. Trash and debris littered the ground, and broken windows stared emptily from the rundown structures looming overhead.

    Axion had patrolled this area countless times, but she rarely ventured down any alleys or side passages. Most were dead ends or trap locations, and she had no reason to wander into a potential ambush.

    At last, Kenzo stopped, leaning against a rusty, dented dumpster. He took a slow, deep breath and exhaled, scratching the back of his neck.

    "So, uh, sorry for calling you out here," he began awkwardly. "But I gotta ask. I heard from Virgil that you fought someone named ''Cobra'' a while ago, right?"

    The LED eyes on Axion''s helmet blinked rapidly.

    Huh? Now that was a question she wasn''t expecting. If he had already talked with Virgil about it, then why did Kenzo ask her directly? Oh, right, she was the only one who fought her. Made sense.

    "Uh, yeah. I did." Axion shifted her weight, recalling their encounter. She hadn''t spared Cobra a second thought since their fight. Well, that wasn''t quite true. She kinda lucked out in the end because she was underestimated. It motivated her to train harder and use her powers in more creative ways. Other than that, Cobra hadn''t crossed her mind. "Why?"

    Where was he going with this?

    Kenzo scratched the stubble along his chin, frowning. "What...do you think of her? Like, as a person."

    "Well, um..." Axion trailed off, considering her words. Where was Kenzo going with this? She didn''t hate her opponent, per se, but Cobra had nearly killed her, so...yeah, she disliked her.

    "I dunno. She''s, er, tough. Strong. Fast, too. And, uhhh, slippery. Yeah, slippery. But she''s dangerous, and she tried to kill me, sooooo, yeah, I''d say I don''t like her." Axion shrugged, tapping her index fingers together. "Why? Did Cobra do something bad to you?"

    "No, no, nothing like that," Kenzo clarified, sighing heavily. "It''s just...I''ve heard a lot about her, and I was curious. She''s a hot topic lately. Uh, in the underground circles, that is. Sorry, I didn''t mean to weird you out."

    "Ah, okay." Axion nodded. Wait, no, not really. Cobra was a hot topic? Underground circles? What the hell? "But, um, why is Cobra a hot topic, exactly? Last time we fought, she was with the Neon Vipers, and they''re a minor gang compared to the Big Four."

    "Right, but remember...Virgil said that they''re working with the Mad Chemist," Kenzo reminded her. "Cobra''s part of his crew now. When we eventually have to deal with him, we may have to deal with her, too."

    "Oh. Right." Axion grimaced, chewing the inside of her cheek.

    Virgil said that he''d handle investigating Salvatore''s movements. Axion hadn''t asked for details, figuring he was better at gathering intel than her. Plus she had to lay low for a bit until the bounty was off her back.

    If she had to face off against Cobra again, things would be much, much different. She was confident that Cobra wouldn''t pose much of a challenge this time.

    Kenzo cleared his throat. "Anyway, enough about her. How are you holding up nowadays?"

    Axion brightened immediately, smiling behind her helmet. "I''m great! Doing lots of patrols, helping folks out, breaking fights apart. Same old, same old. How are things with you and the band?"

    "Same," Kenzo answered, returning her infectious enthusiasm with a grin. "Writing new songs, practicing, scouting venues, y''know. All the fun, mundane stuff."

    Axion nodded enthusiastically, eager to chat. Kenzo mentioned a new song, didn''t he? Should she ask? Would that be awkward, though? Ugh. What to say, what to say...

    "Cool, cool. Um, hey, quick question. Is the new song a, um, hip-hop tune, or...?

    The two spent a leisurely hour catching up. Kenzo told her about the band''s latest gig, the new venue they''d secured, and the concept album they were working on. Axion listened intently, interjecting with excited commentary whenever possible. Eventually, Kenzo''s bandmates called for him, and the pair parted ways amicably, Axion promising she''d attend the band''s next concert.

    Afterward, she resumed her patrol, energized and optimistic. She bounced on the balls of her heels, humming an unfamiliar melody¡ªone Kenzo had described during their conversation.

    Maybe today wasn''t so boring, after all.

    However, her cheerful mood dissipated as the sound of an explosion resounded in the distance. Axion whirled, her eyes widening in alarm. Flames licked the skies, and a column of dark smoke billowed upward, rising over the rooftops.

    Where''d it come from?

    The Rust Market.

    ...shit.

    <hr>

    Thirty minutes ago...

    The early morning light barely pierced the smog that clung to the slums like a second skin, casting an ethereal glow on the dilapidated building where the Adrenomancers convened. Within its crumbling walls, the five figures huddled around a flickering holoscreen.

    Salvatore''s face, if it could be called that, shimmered into focus on the screen, his features obscured by layers of digital distortion¡ªa necessary precaution for a man as notoriously paranoid as the Mad Chemist.

    "Good," a digitized rasp hissed from the screen. "You''re assembled."

    Havoc sneered, leaning back in his chair and propping his boots on the table. "''Bout time you checked in. Been waiting on your signal, boss."

    Voltaire rolled his eyes, arms folded tightly across his chest. Raze gnawed absentmindedly on his lower lip, staring vacantly into space. Blitz and Mirage maintained a safe, respectful distance from each other, neither acknowledging the other''s presence.

    Salvatore''s distorted countenance narrowed, the static blurring his expression into an ominous scowl. "Certain arrangements required...special attention. Details unnecessary, irrelevant."

    "Whatever," Havoc muttered, rolling his wrist dismissively. "Let''s get this show on the road. I''m tired of wasting time sitting around and twiddling my thumbs. My ass hurts from doing jack shit. We good to catch that Axion-chick now or what?"

    Blitz snorted quietly, adjusting the buckles on his gloves. Mirage glanced away, visibly annoyed. Voltaire groaned, burying his head in his hands. Only Raze paid Havoc''s antics no heed, his vacant gaze remaining fixed on the opposite wall.

    Salvatore ignored Havoc, addressing the entire team. "Capture Axion at your discretion, but ensure she is brought in intact. Do not play around and prolong the mission. She is associated with Backfire, and if he manages to interfere, you all are as good as dead."

    "Boss, you think so little of us that you doubt our capabilities against Backfire?" Havoc retorted, feigning offense. "Ouch. Seriously, give us some credit. Besides, ain''t he a washed-up, has-been vigilante nowadays? What''s the worst he can throw at us? Empty magazines, maybe?"

    Mirage and Voltaire exchanged exasperated glances, both shaking their heads in resigned disbelief. Blitz and Raze remained quiet, the former fiddling with the holstered pistols at his waist and the latter muttering incoherently under his breath.

    "Your hubris will be your undoing, Havoc, but so be it," Salvatore warned, his voice crackling. "Proceed. Report your success when the task is completed, and do not disappoint me."

    With a flourish, the Mad Chemist ended the transmission. The holoscreen winked out, plunging the room into semi-darkness once again.

    Havoc let out a dry, derisive cackle. "''Hubris,''" he repeated, mimicking Salvatore''s electronic croak. "Can you believe that guy? Talkin'' like we''re greenhorns."

    Blitz shrugged, slipping his guns back into their holsters. "Eh. Salvatore has his reasons, I guess. Backfire used to be the boogeyman, and the rumors surrounding his fall paint a concerning picture."

    "Boogeyman. Pfft," Havoc scoffed, flapping his wrist. "Those rumors are total BS. People exaggerate. Always have, always will. It''s not like we''ll be up against the Ultimate Guardians or somethin''."

    Voltaire raised his eyebrows, unfolding his arms and drumming his fingers against the tabletop. "Actually, I heard Backfire tangled with a few of their members back in the day¡ªand won. Also heard that one of the reasons why he got exiled from the Metropolis was that he let himself get captured. By the Ultimate Guardians. On purpose."

    Havoc waved his hand dismissively, clicking his tongue. "Whatever, dude. You''re talkin'' a load of crap. Backfire''s not invincible. Nobody''s invincible. Anyway, we done blabbering? Ready to catch us a supherhero?"

    "About time," Voltaire grumbled, standing and pushing his chair away. Blitz and Mirage offered wordless nods of agreement, the former flexing his arms and the latter inspecting her blades. Raze merely grunted, cracking his knuckles and popping his neck.

    "Alright," Havoc drawled, hopping to his feet and stretching. "Let''s split. Remember the gameplan, keep her contained within the market. We don''t have the details on what her power is, exactly, but from the limited intel we got, she''s got some sort of off-brand telekinesis. Watch for flying trash and junk, basically."

    "Question," Blitz interjected, raising his hand. Havoc shot him an irritated glance, folding his arms. "How do we engage her? Just jump her, guns blazing, or...?"

    Havoc paused, rubbing his chin. After a moment, he answered, "Nah, let''s lure her in first. See what plays out. Stick to the plan."

    "You''re saying it''s off-brand, but ain''t telekinesis a big deal?" Voltaire asked, scratching the back of his neck. "I mean, the leader of the Ultimate Guardians is the only one with that power, and he''s, well...basically a god compared to other Metahumans."

    Havoc shrugged, reaching into his jacket pocket. "Dunno. Salvatore didn''t have a ton to share, except a few recordings and a description of the chick''s costume. Besides, the report said that she barely won against Cobra. So, eh. Hardly a threat."

    "Hmm," Voltaire hummed, unconvinced.

    "Don''t sweat the details," Havoc ordered, withdrawing a cigarette from his pocket. He placed the butt between his lips, lighting the tip and inhaling. Smoke curled lazily in the stale air as Havoc exhaled, a smug grin playing across his features. "Let''s wrap this job ASAP. We only got a few more years left in the tank, and I don''t wanna spend more time in this junk pile of a city than I gotta."

    "Understood," Mirage responded, her mechanical mask''s eyes flaring as she adjusted a dial on her wrist. Raze and Blitz voiced their assent, while Voltaire nodded half-heartedly.

    Havoc puffed on his cigarette, studying the swirling tendrils of smoke. After a moment, he motioned toward the exit, and the Adrenomancers filed out the door. Havoc hung back, stubbing his cigarette out in the dingy, cracked sink, before striding after the others.

    "Time to bag ourselves an Axion."

 Chapter 56: Five Versus One

    Axion sprinted, vaulting over the rooftops and leaping between the gaps. Concrete and gravel sprayed haphazardly as her roller skates connected with the dilapidated buildings, generating thin, dusty clouds with each landing.

    I hope Rao''s okay...

    His shop was a few blocks away from where the smoke originated from. So¡­he should be okay. She¡¯ll have to check up on him later. Right now, she needed to find out what happened.

    Rather than exerting her body, she let her power pull her from rooftop to rooftop, building to building, her roller skates granting her additional momentum and stability. Axion bent her knees as she landed, her muscles absorbing the impact, while the microelectronics within her skates compensated for the remaining strain.

    Whenever she pushed off, her skates'' powerful motors accelerated her movements, adding an additional burst of velocity. Coupled with her gravikinesis, the results allowed her to cross a block or two in a single, fluid motion.

    As Axion neared the Rust Market, she scanned the streets below, searching for any victims, perpetrators, or clues. A dense, plume of smoke dominated the area, partially obscuring her view. Flaming debris littered the roads, and scorched fragments marred the pavement, trailing towards the origin point. Pedestrians scattered wildly, panicked screams mingling with the chaotic din.

    "Edith! Something happened at the Rust Market. Can you send your drones over here and scan the area?"

    <On it. Give me a minute> Edith''s voice buzzed in her ear. <I''m routing a few drones your way.>

    "Thanks."

    Axion picked up her pace, arcing smoothly over the final rooftop, and leapt into the thick haze. Her gravikinesis pulled her forward and slowed her descent, and she dropped softly onto the road, her roller skates rolling to a halt.

    "Over here! Axion''s here!" a voice yelled, echoing faintly through the choking fumes. Axion pivoted, peering into the smoke, and spotted a figure limping toward her, arms clutching his stomach. Blood oozed between his fingers, and his complexion was pale and sallow.

    Axion skated forward, catching him before he collapsed. Up close, his clothes appeared singed, his flesh burned and blackened. A massive, bleeding wound gouged his abdomen, the tissue inflamed and charred. Axion flinched, suppressing the bile rising in her throat, and gingerly lowered him to the ground.

    "Hey, you''re gonna be fine, alright?" Axion reassured him, trying¡ªand failing¡ªto keep the apprehension out of her voice. Holy shit, his wounds looked awful, and he was bleeding out fast.

    "They¡ªthey came out of nowhere, a-attacked everyone," the wounded man gasped, his breath ragged and strained. More blood bubbled forth, his skin a ghostly, ashen shade. "A-axion...look o-out, they''re¡ª"

    Before he could finish, a bullet zipped past, whizzing over Axion''s shoulder. Another followed, ricocheting off the asphalt, and Axion threw herself protectively over the injured man and erected her field to deflect more incoming fire.

    Bullets slammed uselessly against her gravitational barrier, careening to the ground. When the barrage stopped, she scooped up the wounded man and pulled herself to a nearby alley, darting behind the relative safety of the wall. Bullets tore apart the brick, scattering the debris in her wake.

    Axion deposited the man out of the line of fire and crouched beside him, peeking cautiously around the corner. Through the fading smoke, a group of figures emerged¡ªfive, to be exact. Each wore a matching leather ensemble, highlighted by a metallic harness. Tubes and injectors snaked beneath their clothing, and a glowing, fluorescent liquid circulated throughout.

    One sported an assault rifle, and he shouldered the weapon and raked the alley with another volley. Axion flattened herself against the brick, wincing as the bullets impacted her hastily constructed gravitational barrier. Another was armed with a submachine gun, spraying her cover recklessly, while the third wielded a pair of wicked, electro-whips. Two stood a fair distance behind the frontline, their hands hidden behind holstered weapons.

    "Edith, do you know who they are?" Axion whispered, her voice low and urgent. Edith''s drones would arrive soon, but Axion needed an edge, and fast.

    They definitely weren''t gangsters from around here. Their getup and guns looked top-notch, military-grade¡ªsomething you don''t see in the slums, even from the Ironclad Legion.

    <Adrenomancers. Salvatore must have brought them in,> Edith replied grimly. <Be careful. They might not have powers, but they''re just as physically capable as you and Virgil, some even more so. You can''t hold back against them.>

    Axion took a deep, calming breath. Alright, so five Adrenomancers versus one her. Not optimal, but doable. She could manage. Probably. Maybe. Hopefully.

    She looked back at the injured man slumped behind her.

    He''s not looking too good. She pressed her fingers against his neck, checking his pulse. Fortunately, he was still breathing¡ªbarely. Still, she couldn''t leave him out in the open.

    "This guy''s hurt bad. I have the medkit you gave me in my bag. If I take him somewhere safe and you guide me while I treat him, can he last until I''m done?"

    <Yes, provided you patch him up properly and he doesn''t suffer additional injuries. But those Adrenomancers won''t wait for you.>

    "Okay," Axion muttered, assessing the situation. Edith was right¡ªshe had to defeat these guys first, otherwise none of her efforts would matter if they attacked more people.

    Okay, priorities: Get this guy to safety. Take out the Adrenomancers. Treat his injuries and stabilize him.

    "Guess there''s no easy way out of this." Axion sighed, gritting her teeth and channeling her power. Then, she burst from the alley, accelerating swiftly and drawing the Adrenomancers'' ire.

    "Target located! Focus fire!" the gunman barked, squeezing the trigger. Axion veered erratically, using her gravikinesis to propel herself sideways. Bullets streaked past harmlessly, slamming into a stall and shredding its contents.

    She ducked and swerved, using the market''s wares and rubble as cover. Her roller skates carried her nimbly through the wreckage, their motors whirring and enhancing her movements. Bullets tore up the ground and blasted crates to splinters, showering her with wood and debris.

    Axion deflected the shrapnel, extending her gravitational barrier to repel the smaller fragments.

    She just needed to get within twenty meters of them, and this should all be over. She eyed the nearest Adrenomancer, gauging the distance¡ªonly a few more seconds and she''d have him.

    "Keep her pinned down! Blitz, Voltaire, go flank her!" the gunman ordered, firing a sustained barrage.

    Axion zig-zagged, twisting and pirouetting erratically to dodge the gunfire. One bullet clipped through her gravitational barrier and ricocheted, tearing a shallow gash across her exposed arm. Axion winced, biting back the pain. Her skates carried her toward a stall, and she dove over a display rack, bursting through the canopy.

    Why did a bullet go through my field? What was different about this one? I''ll have to figure that out later. First, I have to deal with¡ª

    Axion jerked back, her instincts screaming. A blur zipped past her peripheral vision, and something cold and metallic scraped against her helmet. She slid sideways on her skates, whirling in time to witness another Adrenomancer wrench his blade out of a crate. His pale complexion betrayed a faint hint of surprise, but it quickly vanished beneath a roguish smile.

    You won''t be smiling for long. I''ve got you now!

    She increased the gravitational force exerted on him, doubling him over in an instant. The Adrenomancer sank to his knees, his face contorting in a pained grimace. Axion maintained the pressure, holding him in place.

    A torrent of gunfire ravaged her cover, disrupting her concentration. The weight disappeared as she erected her shield again, forcing the bullets away from her. Damnit, they weren''t letting up at all!

    The Adrenomancer who had ambushed her staggered to his feet and ran back to the group, the gunfire dying down momentarily to let him pass. As soon as he returned to their ranks, the shooting resumed with renewed vigor.

    Fine. If all they wanted to do was shoot, then she was gonna play the same game.

    She focused her senses on the incoming projectiles, increasing the magnitude of her field while altering the gravitational eddies to redirect the bullets back at her attackers.

    The redirected projectiles peppered the Adrenomancers'' positions, forcing them to dive for cover. Axion used their temporary distraction to skate toward them and close the distance. However, as she closed in, a glimmering tendril lashed out from behind the stalls and snapped around her ankle, jerking her back and throwing her off balance.

    She careened sideways, colliding violently with a nearby booth. Then, a shock jolted her body, electricity coursing through the whip''s metal chain and dancing along her suit.

    Axion yelped in pain and surprise, hastily rolling out of the whip''s grasp. She crashed to the ground in an ungraceful tumble but regained her bearings quickly and skated away before her attacker could entangle her again.

    The Adrenomancer wielding the whip¡ªVoltaire, probably¡ªgrinned and charged after her, drawing his arm back for another swing. His metallic contraption whistled through the air, snapping and twirling with each arc. Axion swerved deftly around his strikes, channeling her momentum into sharp turns and erratic changes of direction.

    She used her power to divert the whip away from her and drive it toward the ground. Every time the electric weapon contacted the pavement, a blinding spark flashed and a spray of rubble erupted.

    Great. Another whip-obsessed freak. She had already fought someone with a sword-whip before, so this one hardly surprised her. This one had a longer reach, and a dangerous electrical element.

    But her range was greater.

    Axion levitated him into the air and flung him straight into a metal vendor cart. Voltaire yelped, crashing through the shelves and sprawling onto the ground. Axion landed, skating closer.

    Before he could react, she stomped her foot, and the ground ruptured. A column of asphalt surged, lifting him into the air and sending him somersaulting.

    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.

    "Ugh¡ªwhat the?!"

    Voltaire plummeted back to earth in a cloud of debris, groaning as the shockwave scattered the remaining wreckage.

    As he was getting up, Axion lunged and dropkicked him square in the chest. Ribs cracked, and he catapulted backwards, tumbling end-over-end.

    Bullets from the gunman continued to pepper the area. Axion flung fragments of metal and concrete at the shooter to keep him pinned down. Then, she hurled the whip-user''s body, bowling him into his comrades. They scattered, leaping in different directions.

    Didn''t matter. They were now all within her range.

    She increased the gravity around them, pinning them to the ground¡ªor not.

    Three Adrenomancers¡ªthe gunman, the speedy blade user, and the walking brick wall, groaned and struggled, but managed to lift themselves.

    The burly one lumbered forward, bellowing a wordless war cry.

    Axion hesitated, channeling more of her power into keeping him restrained. He shuddered visibly but continued his advance.

    What? How much strength does this guy have?! Axion hastily backed away, but he bulldozed onward.

    The Adrenomancer roared and swung, and Axion barely sidestepped, narrowly dodging his clenched fist. He continued his wild barrage, and Axion retreated, frantically avoiding his frenzied assault. His fists smashed through stalls, upending the displays and scattering their contents across the pavement. Every strike gouged a crater in the asphalt, shattering stone and rending steel.

    "Stay still, dammit!" the Adrenomancer roared.

    Axion ignored him, her roller skates carrying her away. Okay, new plan: Avoid melee. Hit-and-run tactics.

    She extended her power and levitated several chunks of rock into the air. Then, she launched them toward the lumbering Adrenomancer like miniature meteors. The rubble rocketed forward, slamming into the brute and knocking him back. Axion maintained her offensive, bombarding him with wave after wave of projectiles. Every rock elicited a grunt from the Adrenomancer as he shielded himself from her attacks. But despite her assault, he refused to stop pursuing her.

    Oh, come on! Go down already!

    From the corner of her eye, Axion spotted a kid lying prone in the debris, arms shielding his head from the battle. She sprinted over to him and scooped him into her arms¡ªonly to find herself holding nothing but air. The kid''s form flickered and dissipated, revealing a small disc-like device lying in its place.

    "Wait, what¡ª"

    A hologram?

    The world warped around her as she rose from the ground. A figure materialized out of thin air, brandishing a pair of knives¡ªone tucked between her fingers and one held in a reverse grip. A visor covered her eyes. Her smile was both teasing and predatory, sending a chill down Axion''s spine.

    Reflexively, Axion changed the vector of gravity in front of her upwards, hoping to fling her attacker skyward. To her surprise, the woman flickered like a glitchy hologram, disappearing in a blur.

    Axion spun, searching for where the Adrenomancer went, only to catch a boot to the chest that sent her flying. She careened into a stall and crumpled to the ground. She picked herself up hastily, dazed and disoriented.

    "Good job, Mirage! You got her!" The gunman shouted.

    Axion shook her head, trying to clear away the fog. Before she could react, something hard smashed into her helmet. Stars danced across her vision.

    The brute grabbed another chunk of concrete and raised it over his head. "This is payback for the rocks!" He swung, smashing the boulder into Axion and sending her sailing through the air. She landed and rolled across the rough pavement before sliding to a halt.

    Ugh! Dammit...that hurt. Her gravity field dampened most of the impact, but that still packed quite a punch.

    Axion staggered to her feet shakily and tried to activate her comm link to Edith. "Edi¡ª" she managed to gasp before Voltaire joined the fray, swinging his electrified whip. She yelped in surprise as the chains wrapped around her forearm. Then, electricity surged through the metal links and jolted her body.

    Axion grimaced, biting back the agony. She directed her power and flung him into the air, yanking the whip free. The Adrenomancer careened into a stall, obliterating the canopy, before landing with a muffled groan.

    Before she could collect herself, the big brute had managed to get behind her and yanked her upward, then found herself plummeting face-first into the ground, her cyber helmet''s visor crunching upon impact.

    Pain blossomed in her skull, and her ears rang. Axion groaned, forcing herself upright, her vision blurring. Damn, that hurt.

    The big Adrenomancer stomped, and she scrambled back, narrowly evading his crushing blow. His boot pulverized the ground, sending asphalt spraying and cleaving the pavement.

    Focusing her power¡ªand pumping enough force into it to cripple a normal person¡ªshe flung the brute to a nearby building, his reinforced body cratering the brick. She kept him pinned there, doubling the amount of effort and concentration she used.

    Axion''s head throbbed, and the mental strain intensified. Sweat dripped down her forehead, and her cyber helmet''s interface flickered erratically, glitching and flashing red.

    The brutish Adrenomancer thrashed and pried himself loose. Axion swore under her breath.

    Oh, come on! This guy''s crazy strong! I can''t even keep him immobile for more than a few seconds! How do I even deal with someone like him?!

    "Lay it on her Blitz!" The man with the rifle ordered.

    "On it!" The speedster shouted, sprinting forward with blinding speed.

    Before she could react, he delivered a fierce kick. At first, his aim seemed off, but his leg swerved unnaturally as her gravity field caused his kick to angle back at her¡ªconnecting solidly on her flank.

    Axion wheezed, doubling over, and he followed with a knee strike to her gut. She coughed, staggering back, and Blitz pursued relentlessly, his strikes a whirlwind of kicks and punches.

    Damn, he''s fast!

    "Eeeh? So that''s how you avoid getting hit?" Blitz sneered, his movements a blur. "Dunno what your power is, but it ain''t all that impressive. Just an off-brand TK."

    What the hell was he going on about?

    Axion gritted her teeth, blocking and dodging, but he was all over the place, his movements a confusing, frenetic blur. His heel connected with her solar plexus, and Axion keeled, gasping for breath. Blitz swept his leg, and she toppled, falling flat on her back.

    She tried honing in on his movements so she could channel her gravikinesis to affect him, but he was impossible to follow. Another kick slammed into her ribs, and Axion grunted, curling instinctively.

    "Come on, Axion, resist," Blitz teased, kicking her again. "This isn''t fun if you''re not fighting back."

    "Shut...up," Axion hissed, channeling her gravikinesis. Stop. Moving. So. Fast!

    Blitz blurred, striking her a third time. "What''s the matter? Too slow? Here, let me help you."

    Axion snarled and thrust her hands, and the surrounding debris hurtled towards him. Blitz reacted instantly, pivoting and dodging the hail of rubble. Then, his knee connected with the side of her head, and Axion''s cyber helmet''s interface flickered again.

    Shit, that hurt. Axion swayed unsteadily, struggling to retain her concentration. Blitz darted in again, and Axion released the debris, focusing her power solely on him. Gotcha!

    Her gravikinesis seized him, yanking him down.

    Blitz stumbled and crashed into the asphalt.

    Axion concentrated, channeling more gravitational force to keep him pinned.

    "Not so fast anymore, huh?" Axion forced herself upright, but suddenly, a hail of gunfire erupted. Bullets ricocheted against her barrier, and Axion flinched.

    Right, forgot about him.

    She blocked the gunfire, redirecting the projectiles back to the shooter. The gunman swore and dove aside. Axion maintained her grip on Blitz and channeled her power. Let''s try this.

    She hauled, yanking him through the ground. The asphalt ruptured and buckled, and his body scraped harshly against the ground. Axion heaved him upward, and his limbs flopped lifelessly. Then, she swung him viciously and hurled him straight at the gunman.

    They crashed with a satisfying thud.

    Voltaire rushed in, swinging his whip.

    Axion jumped away, using her power to fall up towards the building where the big Adrenomancer still struggled. She landed on her roller skates, steadying herself against the brick.

    "Hey, Havoc. I don''t remember Prime''s telekinesis doing that kind of shit. Are you sure her power''s the same as his?" Blitz asked the rifleman, who was groggily picking himself up.

    "It''s similar," the rifleman¡ªHavoc¡ªresponded. "Just a different application, probably."

    "Huh." Blitz shrugged, rushing at her again.

    This time, she was fast enough to react to his speed¡ªand her power took hold. She anchored him with gravity and pulled, redirecting his momentum. Blitz jerked and collided violently with the side of the building. A guttural wheeze escaped his lips as he crumpled.

    Axion levitated him up to her level, and he tumbled helplessly. She then flung him towards her as she pulled back her fist, aligning the vector of gravity around it to augment her strike.

    "Oh shi¡ª" Blitz sailed through the air, his smug smile morphing into dread, and Axion punched, her gravikinetic-powered attack connecting squarely on his jaw.

    The speedy Adrenomancer rag-dolled, spinning comically before crashing into the asphalt and rebounding, the asphalt cratering as he plunged into the ground.

    Axion''s roller skates carried her backward, cushioning her momentum. She exhaled, flexing her bruised hand, satisfied. Ha, take that.

    The sound of someone stomping towards her made Axion glance over. The big Adrenomancer somehow got to his feet and charged, the building''s wall caving under him with each step.

    Oh shit!

    She released her hold over him and then watched him fall, crashing messily to the ground three stories below.

    He grunted, rising slowly.

    Axion scowled.

    Channeling her power, she repeated her combo, levitating the brute, pulling him towards her, and following up with a devastating punch. But just as her fist connected, the big Adrenomancer countered with a punch of his own as he sailed towards her. His reach exceeded hers, and his fist connected first, hammering Axion''s gut and sending her through the wall beneath her.

    As the effects of her gravikinesis dispersed, both of them tumbled through the room within, crashing into furniture and trashing the interior.

    Without breaking stride, the big brute grabbed her by the shoulders and headbutted.

    Her cyber helmet''s interface flickered, and its warning indicators flashed red. Blood trickled from her mouth, and her helmet''s visor fractured.

    "Had enough yet, Axion?" the Adrenomancer taunted, punching her repeatedly.

    Each blow rocked Axion''s head back and jarred her brain, her cyber helmet''s visor fracturing further. She couldn''t think, couldn''t breathe, could hardly process his onslaught.

    Desperate, she channeled her power and launched him out of the hole in the wall. Unfortunately, the Adrenomancer''s grip remained vice-like, dragging her with him. They arced downward, and the big brute adjusted his positioning, slamming her back-first onto the road.

    Axion''s vision exploded with stars.

    "Stay. Down!" the Adrenomancer grunted, battering her body with punches.

    Pain erupted everywhere, and the world blurred.

    In a desperate attempt, she caused him to float up while pulling herself away. Their grips broke, and the Adrenomancer drifted skyward. Axion rolled and skated away the instant her roller blades touched the asphalt. Finally free, she sucked in a shuddering breath. Every part of her ached.

    She gingerly touched her cyber helmet. Cracks marred its visor, and its visual feed faltered.

    She glanced back, and the big Adrenomancer floated upside-down several meters above, raging.

    "Voltaire! Mirage! Do something!" the gunman¡ªHavoc¡ªberated, turning towards the whip-wielder and the visored woman who had been content to hang back.

    Axion didn''t wait to find out what their plans were. She summoned her remaining stamina and skated away, putting as much distance as possible between her and the Adrenomancers.

    She scanned the area to see if there were any bystanders nearby¡ªthere weren''t. Thank goodness. The Rust Market was deserted now; the shoppers either fled or hid in nearby buildings. Even the other vendors seemed to have abandoned their stalls. No one wanted to get caught in this mess.

    But the guy she rescued earlier still needed her help.

    Axion changed course, skating back to where she had left him. Once she spotted his unconscious body, she scooped him up, using her gravikinesis to lessen the load and hasten her rollerblade-aided movement.

    <Edith, where can I bring him?> Axion spoke hastily through her commlink.

    <Hold on a bit.> There was a brief pause. <Head northbound to a clinic four streets down. Check your HUD.>

    Axion glanced at her cyber helmet''s fractured screen. Sure enough, an indicator had appeared, displaying Edith''s suggested location.

    Axion gritted her teeth. Hopefully, the Adrenomancers wouldn''t pursue her¡ªshe was spent.

    Thankfully, no footsteps or sounds of pursuit reached her ears. Axion checked behind her. No one.

    She sighed, relieved. Looks like they gave up.

    Axion resumed her escape, her roller skates carrying her through the streets.

 Chapter 57: Licking Their Wounds

    "Fuck!" Havoc slammed his fist against the table. "We had her right there and let her slip through our fingers. Useless bunch of fuckups."

    The Adrenomancers had returned to their hideout and now sat around the meeting table, nursing their injuries and suppressing their frustration. All except for Havoc, who paced furiously around the room.

    "I told you we should have ambushed her instead of charging in like a bunch of idiots," Voltaire said, leaning back in his chair. "Now, we''ve given her time to regroup and come up with a defense plan."

    "You shouldn''t have rushed her like that," Blitz agreed, his voice slurring slightly. His face was badly bruised, and his lips split. "We don''t know her abilities and how they work. It was risky."

    Havoc glared at him. "So, you''re blaming me? You should have incapacitated her with your speed. Instead, you let her turn the tide and beat us at our own game."

    Mirage shook her head. "She''s strong. It''s no surprise Salvatore wants her so badly." She turned to Havoc. "Although I do agree you should''ve given a clearer instruction. We''ll have a tough time catching her off guard now."

    "Whatever," Havoc retorted dismissively. "All you did was stand by and watch while the rest of us got our asses kicked. You only interfered at the last moment."

    Mirage narrowed her eyes, giving Havoc a pointed stare. "I was busy trying to make sure Backfire didn''t come waltzing in while you all were taking your sweet time in capturing Axion," she replied frostily. "My task is to support you with my holograms, not to fight head-on. Besides, you clearly underestimated her powers."

    Raze stood idly by in the corner, the drugs in his harness pumping fresh stimulants into his bloodstream. The big Adrenomancer crossed his arms and remained silent, watching the argument unfold.

    "Look, I get that we botched this mission," Blitz conceded. "We didn''t have enough time to prepare¡ªyou barely gave us two minutes before launching the attack. So how about we cut ourselves some slack and figure out how to salvage the situation."

    Havoc stopped pacing and turned to Blitz. "Fine," he snapped. "We''ll have other chances. But we need a better game plan next time." He strode over to his seat and sat down heavily.

    "I''m more interested in figuring out her abilities. How come her power was nothing like Prime''s telekinesis?" Blitz asked, glancing around the room. "Anyone else notice that?"

    Mirage shrugged. "I''ve seen the footage¡ªPrime''s telekinesis works similarly. But I think Axion''s power is based on gravity."

    Blitz cocked his head. "How can you tell?"

    "The way she affected us, the rubble she threw, her floating and sticking to the side of the building like she was on normal ground..." Mirage explained. "If she were a Telekinetic, she''d have affected us the same way Prime does. We would have been crushed, twisted, or torn apart."

    "We did get thrown around a bit and almost got crushed," Voltaire pointed out. "But yeah, she wasn''t destroying everything like Prime would."

    "It''s just a hunch," Mirage admitted. "But if we want concrete answers, we''ll have to send our footage to Salvatore and let him analyze the videos."

    "Alright, alright. I''ll send it over and report in," Havoc stated. "Should give him a good show, at least."

    He tapped the desk console in front of him, activating the display screens embedded within. After navigating through menus and security measures, he established a video call to Salvatore.

    The other Adrenomancers waited silently while the call went through. Eventually, the Mad Chemist''s face filled the monitor, and his features registered clear displeasure.

    "Looks like you failed me, Havoc," Salvatore chastised. "Care to explain?"

    The Adrenomancer clenched his teeth but held back the response he really wanted to give. "There''s no need for theatrics. It was our fault."

    "Yes," Salvatore stated plainly. "Your faults are many¡ªbut you''re still useful nonetheless. Now, report."

    Havoc complied, relaying the details of the battle. The others offered input when necessary. Once they finished their recounting of the events, they waited for Salvatore''s reaction.

    "Gravikinesis..." the mastermind mused. "An interesting development. And an excellent discovery on Mirage''s part." He smiled. "I''ll run some simulations with the data you''ve provided. In the meantime, continue monitoring the situation. Capture Axion on your next encounter and deliver her to me alive."

    The video link terminated abruptly. The monitors flicked off with a soft hum.

    Havoc leaned back and exhaled. The Adrenomancers exchanged glances with each other.

    After a long pause, Blitz clapped his hands together. "Well, at least he''s not pissed anymore. That''s good, right? Right?"

    "Yeah, he''s not gonna punish us," Raze replied. "Guess we''re off the hook."

    "No. This time, he''ll expect better," Havoc interjected.

    <hr>

    Fii rushed over to Rao''s shop after dropping off the rescued civilian in a run-down clinic a few blocks away and stashing her gear into one of Edith''s drones.

    The section of the Rust Market that the Adrenomancers rampaged over resembled a warzone. Booths and stalls lay in ruins, the asphalt was scarred, and rubble littered the surroundings. People came out of hiding now, cleaning up the destruction or inspecting the damage to their properties. Several wore baffled and disgusted expressions on their faces, muttering under their breaths.

    Fii slowed down to a halt, her heart sank at the sight of several dead bodies sprawled around the wreckage. A few people were crouched nearby, some crying while others tended to them silently.

    She hadn''t seen any in the area where she fought the Adrenomancers, so she figured people had managed to escape in time. Not all of them did. The bodies had been covered with sheets, but it didn''t mask the smell of blood.

    As she passed by the scene, she caught snippets of their conversation.

    "Mom! Mom!" A boy cried out. "Come back..." He cradled a woman''s bloodied body, his hands gripping her torn shirt.

    A man sat slumped nearby, staring vacantly at a motionless figure covered with a piece of tarp. Someone patted his shoulder as he buried his face in his hands, trembling.

    Guilt wrenched her guts.

    If only she had gotten here faster and stopped the Adrenomancers'' rampage earlier...

    Shaking her head, she swallowed the lump in her throat and willed herself not to break down. Now wasn''t the time for crying. Later, once she was alone¡ªor if she ever got the chance¡ªshe''d mourn these people.

    A sense of dread crept on her as she continued making her way towards the Rao''s shop.

    Thankfully, his place was further away, untouched by the destruction. Fii entered the cyber-tech vendor''s shop and scanned the store.

    "Rao! You okay?!" Fii yelled.

    A familiar face popped out from behind a counter, his features wrinkled. "Ah, Fii. Glad you''re safe. I''m okay¡ªnothing damaged. Store is fine."

    Fii''s shoulders slumped in relief.

    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Rao came out from behind the counter and walked over. "Thought it was a turf war that spilled over again. Glad they didn''t wreck my store."

    "Your store''s the last thing you should worry about," Fii stated flatly, leaning against the wall and taking deep, calming breaths. "I saw a bunch of people dead on my way here."

    "Eh, this ain''t the worst I''ve seen," Rao replied, sighing. "You should''ve been here a decade ago. Those were grim days. Anyways, people will pick up the pieces. Again. And business will return. Again."

    "Yeah...guess you''re right," Fii mumbled, a sinking feeling weighing her. Things always seemed to go back to the status quo.

    Rao was right¡ªthe Rust Market would bounce back soon enough; after all, rebuilding and recovery was what the slums were good at. In a week or two, the violence would be a distant memory, and things would carry on as if nothing ever happened. That''s how life went here in the slums; she should''ve been used to this by now. Still, the weight of seeing the bodies didn''t lift off her mind.

    "You sure you''re alright?" Rao asked. "You don''t look well. Do you want to sit? There are some chairs by the counter."

    "I''m okay, don''t worry. Just got banged up a little. Nothing serious," Fii reassured him, shaking her head. "Still. Glad you''re okay, Rao. You''re like family to me."

    Fii gave him a hug, patting him affectionately on the back.

    "Bah. Don''t get sappy with me, girl. I''m too old to deal with these emotions," Rao grumbled. "But enough about me. What the hell happened to you? You look like crap. Did you get into a brawl with a bulldozer?"

    "Um...sorta?" Fii admitted sheepishly. She looked at herself, noting the cuts, bruises, and burns marking her exposed skin. Her face felt pretty banged up too.

    Well, at least she wasn''t dripping blood anymore. Still, she couldn''t blame him for sounding concerned.

    "Sit," Rao ordered, waving her over. "Let me patch you up." Fii obeyed and settled gingerly into a rickety chair. Rao rummaged in a drawer and retrieved a medical kit. Then, he proceeded to clean her wounds.

    "How many months has it been since you came here looking like that? Four? Five?" Rao tutted. He dabbed antiseptic fluid on her cuts and applied ointment. "Seems like every day is a new injury for you."

    Fii winced, stifling a cry as the antiseptic''s sting radiated through her skin. "Occupational hazards."

    She grimaced and endured the treatment.

    Rao scoffed. "Some job you have." He placed a bandage over a particularly nasty-looking gash and secured it. Then, he moved onto the next wound. "You said you were working at the Aether Clinic. Did you fight with a skizzed-up patient or somethin''?"

    His guess was...actually not too far off.

    "Something like that," Fii hedged. Best to keep him in the dark. Rao fussed over her, continuing his ministrations. "Anyways, thanks for fixing me up again."

    "Always the troublemaker. Reminds me when you were a scrawny ClipRunner. Ah, those were the days," Rao reminisced. "Remember that time you stole an entire bag of synthies because you were hungry?"

    Fii shifted uncomfortably. Rao had scolded her profusely and even chased her out with a broomstick. Luckily for her, he had warmed up eventually and ended up hiring her to run errands and messages.

    "Of course I do. Never stole after that." Fii rubbed her arms. That particular incident was ingrained deeply in her memories¡ªit taught her a valuable lesson. Stealing would just cause the vendors to refuse her service. Honesty paid better.

    "Good. You should keep that moral code." Rao applied another bandage. "Times are hard. Especially during turf wars. Always keep your values¡ªotherwise, you''ll lose yourself."

    Fii pursed her lips. Yeah, she wouldn''t steal. But beating the shit out of people that crossed the line certainly wouldn''t count as immoral in her book. Like the Adrenomancers. She would''ve had no qualms smashing them further into the asphalt.

    The front door suddenly burst open and Quinn dashed in, panting heavily.

    He looked like he just ran across two districts without catching his breath.

    "Fii! There you are," Quinn exclaimed, running over. "Are you okay? Edith told me what happened!"

    Rao frowned. "Quinn? What are you doing here?"

    Quinn halted, recognizing Rao''s presence. "O-oh. Hi Rao." He glanced nervously at Fii. "I was...uh...checking up on Fii. Heard about what happened in the Rust Market. Thought I''d check in on her."

    Fii suppressed her laughter. Quinn had a terrible poker face. Rao would definitely know he was hiding something.

    The cyber-tech vendor narrowed his eyes. "Right. Well, you can ''check up on her'' after I finish patching her up. Now sit."

    Quinn stiffly obeyed. He perched nervously on the edge of his stool.

    Rao resumed his treatments, his dexterous hands expertly cleaning Fii''s cuts and applying ointment. Quinn fidgeted beside her, shifting anxiously.

    Fii gave Quinn a subtle wink and a thumbs-up. Quinn relaxed visibly and shot her a grateful smile.

    Rao paused his administration, scrutinizing Fii. "Hmm...seems I''m done. You got a bunch of bruises and scrapes. Try not to move around too much."

    "Will do. Thanks." Fii rose gingerly from her seat and stretched. Pain flared briefly, and she inhaled sharply. Okay. Moving was not a good idea. Note to self: Rest.

    "Anything else you need, Fii?" Rao inquired.

    "Nope. I''m good. Just came to check if you were okay. Should probably get going," Fii responded. She didn''t want to overstay her welcome. Not with Quinn around¡ªEdith and Virgil would kill her if Rao learned of their secrets.

    "You sure you''re all healed? Take some med-packs, at least." Rao rummaged underneath his counter and presented Fii with a handful of med-packs.

    "I can pay¡ª"

    "Nonsense." Rao shoved the med-packs into her hands. "Consider this compensation for all the deliveries you did for me."

    Fii accepted the packets reluctantly. Free stuff was great, but accepting too much would make her feel guilty. "Thanks," she finally muttered.

    "Take care. Remember¡ªvalues are important," Rao called out as Fii headed for the exit. Quinn was close behind.

    "Yeah, yeah." Fii waved distractedly. Quinn shot Rao a hurried farewell before stepping outside.

    "Whew. I was afraid he''d suspect something," Quinn exhaled.

    "Wouldn''t be surprised if he already did." Fii chuckled. Quinn reddened and trailed beside her.

    "Where you heading to?" Quinn queried. "The Aether clinic?"

    "Was planning to," Fii admitted.

    The two strolled companionably through the Rust Market''s streets. Quinn supported her slightly¡ªFii didn''t brush him off. Her sides ached, and her muscles throbbed. Walking was torture.

    "Those Adrenomancers really beat you up," Quinn remarked under his breath as they passed the area where Fii had fought them earlier. "Glad you''re okay. Well...relatively."

    "Me too." Fii hobbled along, grimacing. Everything was sore. She really needed a bed¡ªand a hot shower. "Hope the other clinic patched up the person I saved."

    "They did. Edith told me," Quinn reassured. "By the way, what happened to the Adrenomancers?"

    "Knocked them around a little. Dumped a few into the ground and threw bricks at them. But they''re tougher than anyone else I''ve fought."

    "Did they have superpowers too?"

    "I don''t know. One was fast. Another guy was crazy strong. The others didn''t seem like they had anything special other than their gear," Fii recalled. "Then again, I''m not the best judge. Might''ve missed something."

    "Well, at least you escaped. Could''ve been bad otherwise," Quinn observed, glancing sideways at her. "Did those skates help you?"

    "Helped a ton. Really boosted my mobility and balance. I should have used them more, though. Probably would''ve prevented some of the hits I got."

    Quinn grinned. "Told you those upgrades would come in handy."

    "Yup. Good call, Quinn. Thanks." Fii meant every word. Without his contribution, she would have been curb-stomped. Literally.

    "Anytime. That''s why I''m here. Happy to help." Quinn bumped her playfully, and Fii returned the gesture.

    The duo continued towards the clinic, chatting amicably. Despite her aching injuries and exhaustion, Fii enjoyed the interaction. Quinn''s cheerful personality and enthusiasm brightened her spirits. He was always such a positive influence. She appreciated his company.

    Eventually, the Aether Clinic appeared within view. Fii breathed a sigh of relief¡ªalmost there. Quinn matched her limping pace and assisted her towards the entrance.

    Virgil was waiting right outside the doorway. Judging from his expression, it looked like he had a lot to say.

    Great. Just what she needed.

    "You did good surviving," Virgil greeted. His gaze flitted over Fii''s battered form. "Looks like those Adrenomancers handed your ass to you though."

    "Thanks," Fii replied curtly. "Can we go inside and discuss later?"

    "Fine," Virgil replied gruffly, holding the door open. Quinn aided her inside and the trio ascended the staircase. Fii hobbled awkwardly with Quinn''s assistance¡ªevery step hurt. By the time Fii reached an empty examination room, sweat dotted her forehead. Damn stairs.

    Quinn helped her settle onto a cushioned hospital bed. Fii sank gratefully into the sheets. Soft. So, so soft. Finally. She couldn''t wait to pass out.

    Virgil cleared his throat. Fii opened her eyes¡ªdid she doze off?

    "What did you learn?" the grizzled vigilante interrogated. "Talk."

    Fii groaned. Why did Virgil have to ask questions now?

    "They''re super strong. Fast. Tough. Had guns. Some gadget stuff too..." Fii rattled off tiredly. "Couldn''t land a knock-out blow. Kept interrupting me. Almost had them too." Fii yawned, fighting the urge to drift off. Sleep. Bed. Soft. Yes.

    Virgil didn''t appreciate her answer. He pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed exasperatedly. "You need to stop being so soft. Those Adrenomancers won''t hesitate to put you in a bodybag. Hit harder and aim to end the fights."

    Fii closed her eyes, not bothering to reply. Virgil would just nag anyways. Better to tune him out. Maybe he''d shut up if she fell asleep.

    Virgil wasn''t pleased. "Kid. I''m serious. Next time¡ªyou need be willing to kill them."

    That woke Fii right up.

 Chapter 58: To Kill, or Not To Kill

    Virgil gazed steadily at Fii''s scowling face. Her brows were furrowed, and her eyes were narrowed¡ªsigns of defiance. Typical. She lacked a killer''s instincts, refusing to cross that boundary. Which was fine¡ªhe had a solution.

    "Before you say anything, I''ve been in your shoes," Virgil asserted. "Trust me when I say this: Killing a person changes you."

    Fii averted her eyes. Quinn shifted awkwardly in the corner. Virgil ignored him.

    "Those Adrenomancers aren''t ordinary criminals¡ªthey''re Salvatore''s elite enforcers. You''re lucky they didn''t use hostages or civilians as shields," Virgil lectured, crossing his arms. "Next time, they won''t hold back. Surviving will be the least of your problems."

    Fii stubbornly kept her gaze averted. Virgil inwardly sighed. Teenagers. He''d have to drill his words in harder.

    "Listen, kid. You''re a Metahuman¡ªwhether you accept it or not. If you want to protect the slums, you''re gonna have to evolve." Virgil softened his tone. "Don''t deny yourself a weapon¡ªit''ll cost lives. Innocent lives."

    Fii remained silent, staring sullenly at the bedsheets. Virgil had expected this¡ªhe pressed on. "Killing may stain your soul, but the consequences of inaction will haunt you forever."

    Silence.

    Virgil glanced at Quinn, who wore a conflicted expression. Looked like the boy understood the stakes.

    "Think on it." Virgil made for the exit. "Rest. You''ll have a bigger problem on your hands." He gestured at the window. "Soon."

    <hr>

    Quinn watched Virgil stride out of the examination room. The vigilante was intimidating¡ªhis presence dominated the space, and his intensity was palpable. Quinn didn''t envy Fii. Getting lectured by Backfire must have been daunting.

    He focused his attention onto Fii, whose scowl had transformed into a crestfallen expression. Yikes. Virgil sure had a way with words.

    "Hey." Quinn approached gently. "Need anything? Water? Synthie?"

    Fii shook her head and stared blankly ahead. Quinn sat down gingerly beside her.

    "Just...leave me alone."

    Ouch. Guess Quinn was unwanted company. He stood up quietly and headed for the door.

    "Sorry," Fii mumbled.

    Quinn paused.

    "Don''t be." He flashed her a reassuring smile. "I''m not mad. Get some rest, okay? Don''t sweat Virgil''s lectures. He means well."

    "Do you think I should have killed them?"

    Quinn froze. Um...this was a tricky topic. He didn''t want to offend her¡ªespecially in her vulnerable state. On the other hand, honesty was the best policy.

    "Don''t take this the wrong way, Fii. But...I think Virgil was right," Quinn stated carefully. "If you asked anyone else what they would have done in your shoes, most would have answered killing. Hell¡ªeven I would."

    Fii''s expression crumpled. Uh-oh. Was he supposed to mention himself? Quinn continued hesitantly. "Look. What I''m trying to say is¡ªyou''re different. There''s only a handful of people in the slums who''d choose not to kill. Most would stab an Adrenomancer in the neck first and ask questions later."

    Fii buried her face into the pillow. Quinn winced. Oh shit. Was she crying? He didn''t mean to hurt her feelings. Maybe he should''ve shut up. Quinn wrung his hands helplessly¡ªwhat was he supposed to do?

    "You okay?" Quinn probed cautiously. Fii didn''t respond. He inched closer, hovering uncertainly near the edge of the bed. "Do...do you need a hug?"

    Fii peeked out from under the pillow. Quinn tensed¡ªwas she angry? Sad? Both? She didn''t give any visual cues.

    "You...think I''m different?" Fii asked tentatively.

    "Yeah. You''re a nice person. Helping people is a value¡ªnot a weakness. At least, that''s what Rao said. I''m sure you''ve met other people like you." Quinn offered hopefully.

    "Most people...would''ve stolen from Rao," Fii murmured. "Instead, I delivered messages and ran errands. And he actually pays me a wage."

    "See? Different." Quinn encouraged. Fii peered out fully¡ªthank goodness. Progress. He smiled encouragingly. "Not a bad trait to have, either. Nice people are rare in the slums."

    "You''re nice. You fix things and help people too. But you said you would have killed the Adrenomancers."

    Quinn rubbed the back of his neck and laughed weakly. Oops. Didn''t mean to expose his hypocrisy. "Uh...to be fair¡ªthey attacked the Rust Market. Even gangs know better than to do that."

    Fii frowned.

    Uh-oh. Wrong argument. Quinn scrambled. "Look. I''m not saying killing is right¡ªjust...well...sometimes the slums demands tough choices. Life-and-death stuff. I know you know that. Virgil''s right about the consequences. You saw what happened today. That''s bound to happen again."

    Fii didn''t respond. Quinn forged ahead. "I get Virgil''s lecture. Honestly. He has a point¡ªSalvatore''s Adrenomancers will come back. You won''t always win unscathed." Quinn gestured to Fii''s numerous visible bandages. "Clearly."

    Fii winced.

    Quinn''s stomach churned¡ªhe hated pressuring her. The topic was a sensitive subject¡ªbest to offer advice and leave. He concluded his piece. "Like Virgil said¡ªrest. Think about it, okay? You''ll figure out what''s right. If you ever need an ear, I''m always around. Or Kenzo. Or Edith." Quinn hesitated. "...or Virgil, I suppose."

    "Okay." Fii burrowed deeper into her sheets. Message received.

    "Okay." Quinn turned to leave. He stepped over the threshold, preparing to descend the staircase and leave Fii in peace.

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    "Quinn?"

    Quinn halted. Fii spoke. Turnaround was a success. "Yes?" he prodded gently.

    "Thanks."

    Quinn cracked a relieved smile. "Anytime. Feel better soon." He exited the examination room and ventured downstairs. Mission accomplished. Fii would bounce back¡ªshe always did.

    <hr>

    Fii buried herself deeper underneath the covers, pondering Virgil''s lecture. His warning weighed heavily¡ªnext time, the Adrenomancers wouldn''t go easy.

    Hostages. Civilians. Collateral damage. Virgil had spelled everything out. Fii understood. The slums demanded tough choices¡ªbut could she bring herself to kill someone? Sure¡ªshe could defend herself. Beat up a few punks until they know better. She could justify all that.

    Kill? That was different. Completely different.

    Quinn said he''d kill the Adrenomancers¡ªhell, practically everyone would. Virgil certainly wouldn''t hesitate. Edith probably wouldn''t blink twice either. Everyone advised Fii to follow their example. Kill and move on.

    Would Kenzo advocate the same?

    She doubted. Kenzo would sing about the importance of art and culture¡ªnot violence. He even used a sword that didn''t cut¡ªthe perfect weapon for pacifism. Music, poetry, dance¡ªthese were Kenzo''s style. Not murder.

    Fii''s thoughts drifted towards the Rust Market.

    What if those Adrenomancers happened to attack closer to Rao''s store? What if Rao had been caught in the crossfire?

    She shuddered at the thought. Even imagining it left an uncomfortable twist in her gut.

    No. She''d hate herself if Rao got hurt¡ªor worse. And if he died...?

    Her fists tightened. She didn''t like the emotions brewing¡ªdark and bitter. If Rao died because she couldn''t¡ªor wouldn''t¡ªkill, then...

    Fii''s train of thought petered out. She exhaled¡ªher emotional rollercoaster exhausted her even further. Best to rest and recover her strength. Whatever Virgil warned about¡ªshe''d tackle them eventually. Fii''s eyes slowly closed as fatigue sapped her awareness. Right now¡ªsleep. Then fight. Later.

    <hr>

    Edith had a headache. Between the recent influx of patients from the Rust Market attack and Fii''s Adrenomancer encounter¡ªeverything was stressful. At least Fii hadn''t sustained any life-threatening injuries. Virgil''s report didn''t ease Edith''s concerns. The Adrenomancers would return¡ªsoon. Salvatore would not take their failures lightly.

    She massaged her temples and strode over towards her medicine cabinet. Edith retrieved a packet of generic painkillers and dry-swallowed a tablet.

    Ah. Sweet relief.

    Edith sipped her bottle of water and slumped into her chair. She idly rotated her office swivel¡ªtoo drained to accomplish actual work. She''d let Sheri handle patient visits for now¡ªEdith desperately craved a respite.

    A knock on the door interrupted Edith''s impromptu chair-spinning session. Seriously? Privacy. Edith could not catch a damn break. "Come in," she barked irritably.

    Quinn poked his head timidly through the doorway. Edith restrained a groan¡ªshe wasn''t in the mood to entertain visitors. Hopefully Quinn had a valid reason¡ªotherwise, Edith would boot him out instantly. No mercy. Not today.

    "Hi," Quinn greeted. He entered fully and leaned his lanky frame sheepishly against the doorframe. "Um. How are you?"

    Edith stifled her sharp retort. Quinn was a genuinely nice kid. Annoyingly quirky, but nice. No reason to chase him out¡ªyet. Edith tempered her annoyance. Quinn was a visitor. She was obligated to be civil.

    "I''ve...been better," Edith responded drily. "What is it?"

    "I wanted to talk about Fii," Quinn blurted.

    Of course. Edith should''ve predicted this. From what she''s gathered, Quinn acted as the girl''s emotional support puppy¡ªfollowing her around like an affectionate stray. Annoying¡ªbut oddly endearing. Edith grudgingly respected the guy.

    "I''ll check up on her soon. For now, she just needs to rest. Physically and emotionally," Edith reassured. Quinn''s apprehension persisted. Hm. Either he suspected something else or... "Why the long face?"

    Quinn''s shoulders drooped. "Virgil talked to her. Said something about killing and consequences. I talked to her afterwards¡ªshe...didn''t take it well."

    "Figures." Edith sighed.

    Virgil possessed no bedside manners. His methods were effective¡ªbut brutal. Empathy was a foreign concept. The man operated based purely on results and outcomes. Efficiency¡ªnothing less and nothing more.

    Edith sympathized¡ªVirgil''s teachings stemmed from personal experience. Fii benefited significantly from Virgil''s rigorous guidance¡ªthat couldn''t be denied. Still¡ªhis blunt mannerisms could prove detrimental to Fii''s morale. Edith made a mental note to speak with the vigilante later¡ªclearly, the message had caused Fii distress. Quinn''s arrival merely reinforced her suspicions.

    "Look," Edith consoled. "Sooner or later, Fii will have to confront her decision. There are no jails or prisons out here, right? No authorities except for the ones carrying the only good guns¡ªand Metahuman cohorts. She''s going to learn¡ªone way or another."

    Quinn deflated. Clearly, the advice wasn''t satisfactory. Edith inwardly sighed. Why her? She was a geneticist¡ªnot a counselor. Perhaps Quinn was expecting an optimistic speech. Something motivational. Edith''s specialty didn''t entail sugar-coated half-truths.

    "But...shouldn''t she figure things out without the pressure?" Quinn argued. "Virgil''s putting her under a lot of stress. I get his points, but...maybe a gentler approach would be better."

    "You''d rather Fii learns the hard way instead? Would you rather get killed because she held back, and then cause her to freak out and snap?" Edith challenged.

    Quinn''s mouth promptly clamped shut.

    "I...guess not. Sorry. Didn''t think of it that way," he conceded. "Look. I get it. I''m with Virgil on this. Fii needs to change¡ªshe has to. But...can''t Virgil slow down a bit? Be a little more supportive?"

    "Have you considered that Virgil''s being a dick for a good reason?"

    "Huh?" Quinn blinked owlishly. Edith resisted the temptation to roll her eyes.

    "Look. Virgil trained Fii¡ªright? Why does he bother sticking around, mentoring a stranger, spending his precious time teaching her?" Edith rhetorically questioned.

    Quinn didn''t provide an answer¡ªsmart kid. He had a brain. Unlike Fii. The girl was a poster child of optimism. Believing in a greater good¡ªnaive, but not entirely unfounded. Optimism was ideal¡ªbut unrealistic. Edith preferred realists. People like Virgil¡ªhardened cynics who dealt with harsh realities.

    Edith internally scoffed¡ªhow could Fii and Quinn expect her to offer warm, fuzzy advice? She honestly tried her best¡ªreally¡ªbut offering encouragement and sympathy was a moot effort. She was an outcast¡ªscorned by society and ostracized due to her controversial studies. She could scarcely tolerate humanity¡ªlet alone act sympathetic.

    Yet here she was, playing the part of a doctor. Ironic.

    "Virgil doesn''t mentor Fii out of the kindness of his heart. He does it because he acknowledges her potential," Edith exposited. "And unfortunately¡ªpotential doesn''t guarantee success. Potential isn''t enough. Virgil wants her ready. And for that, he expects her to adapt." Edith scrutinized Quinn''s facial expressions. "Does that explain his actions?"

    Quinn processed the provided reasoning. Eventually, his shoulders relaxed. Edith permitted herself an invisible smirk.

    "Thanks. Now¡ªanything else? I''m busy," Edith lied. Quinn''s visit drained her remaining patience¡ªshe was in no mood for small talk. Hopefully he''d take the social cue and scram.

    "Nope. That''s all," Quinn assured. "I''ll go now. Thanks for the explanation."

    "Sure," Edith acknowledged. Quinn nodded and departed. Good¡ªfinally.

    Edith resumed her therapeutic spinning. Relief. Mental clarity. Calm. Chair. Swivel. Chair. Swivel. Spin. Repeat. Perfect.

    She indulged in her mini activity, savoring the tranquil silence. Finally¡ªalone. Peace and¡ª

    Helix''s electronic voice interrupted her peaceful moment.

    "Dr. Weiss."

    Edith restrained the urge to throttle Helix''s server¡ªwhy, why, WHY?! Personal space! Did her clinic''s AI not comprehend the meaning¡ª

    "Adrenomancer activity detected," Helix notified.

    Edith''s rage derailed instantaneously¡ªher internal rant replaced with a single priority.

    "Contact Virgil. NOW." Edith bolted upright and snatched her portable scanner.

    This was her chance to get valuable data. She just had to convince Virgil to keep one of them alive.

 Chapter 59: Serious Business

    Salvatore leaned forward in his chair, the glow from multiple screens illuminating the stark contours of his face. The dimly lit room, lined with shelves of archaic and modern scientific paraphernalia, was his laboratory¡ªthe hub of his operations and the birthplace of his greatest creations. Salvatore watched the videos his Adrenomancers had sent him, analyzing the scenes frame by frame.

    His fingers danced across the keyboard, pulling up footage after footage, studying the recordings minutely. The Mad Chemist paused occasionally whenever a significant detail occurred, rewinding the files and replaying sections repeatedly. Hours passed as Salvatore immersed himself wholly into the analysis.

    The fight footage played on a loop, but it wasn''t the heroics that caught his eye¡ªno, it was the gear.

    "The slums can''t claim credit for such craftsmanship," he muttered to himself, scrutinizing the sleek design of Axion''s bodysuit. "Too refined. Let''s see who you''ve been talking to."

    Its contours and fabric hinted towards a specialized tech¡ªsomething akin to the metropolis'' finest. Such functionality, paired with aesthetic appeal, required a highly sophisticated manufacturer. Salvatore knew the signature of every major tech player in the metropolis, and this suit...it sparked recognition.

    He cross-referenced the suit''s design with his extensive database of gear worn by metropolis heroes. His network of informants and his own endeavors had amassed a treasure trove of such information, a byproduct of his fascination with those who dared to don costumes and masks in the name of justice.

    With a few swift keystrokes, he filtered through the entries until he found a match.

    "There," he exclaimed softly. "Dynatech Industries. They pride themselves on creating gear for the elites. So, how did a slum hero acquire one of their top-tier suits?"

    The manufacturer specialized in nanoweave fibers, a favorite among heroes who prioritized mobility and comfort. Dynatech''s production line was famously guarded and restricted¡ªaccessible to only the metropolis'' most esteemed superheroes. Salvatore recalled an infamous scandal in which a group of aspiring rookies attempted to hack into the company''s systems, seeking access to their premium products. Needless to say, Dynatech''s countermeasures dispatched their intruders swiftly.

    Only someone well-connected within Dynatech''s inner circle would receive equipment from the exclusive manufacturing lines. Salvatore''s interest piqued¡ªthis heroine exhibited connections beyond her limited background. Axion''s origins revealed no remarkable achievements or accomplishments.

    "Let''s dig a bit deeper. Who did you meet, Axion?"

    His curiosity piqued, Salvatore turned his attention to Axion''s helmet. The design was unmistakable now that he knew what to look for. Only one company crafted such sophisticated gear¡ªOptiMax Defense, an exclusive supplier to the metropolis military. The Ultimate Guardians themselves favored their iconic cyber-helmets.

    Salvatore recalled his unsuccessful attempts to procure their latest cutting-edge tech. OptiMax Defense denied him¡ªtheir supply was strictly reserved for the premier metropolis superhero teams and military personnel. No exceptions.

    To have both Dynatech''s bodysuit and OptiMax''s cyber-helmet was a significant feat.

    A slum-dweller could never afford such gear¡ªunless, in truth, this heroine was a metropolis hero masquerading as a slum vigilante. Salvatore entertained the idea¡ªcould the Ultimate Guardians have planted their assets amidst the slums?

    No¡ªtoo costly. Metropolis superheroes never risked their lives to protect a slum. Even then Ultimate Guardians lacked the drive and motivation to associate with slum-dwellers. Too privileged. Axion''s heroic deeds contradicted Ultimate Guardians'' apathetic ideologies¡ªSalvatore was certain metropolis involvement did not play a role.

    Another possibility resurfaced¡ªDynatech and OptiMax had rogue employees. Someone secretly provided the heroine with gear and armor. Salvatore could not pinpoint the connection¡ªsuch an opportunity was unprecedented. Dynatech and OptiMax Defense prided themselves on loyalty¡ªtheir employees had zero motive for committing corporate espionage. Salvatore could not deduce a convincing theory.

    But one this is certain... Someone was funding her¡ªsomeone powerful.

    Question was: who acquired the resources and funneled them towards her? Salvatore had an inkling suspicion¡ªVirgil. But the vigilante was no saint.

    No. Salvatore ruled Virgil out¡ªhe had no affiliation with Dynatech or OptiMax Defense. Moreover, Virgil lacked the financial capabilities to sponsor her. Whoever aided her possessed significant influence or wealth. Salvatore smirked¡ªnow things became even more fascinating.

    An unknown benefactor supported her, equipping her with Dynatech and OptiMax Defense''s premiere technologies. Who did Axion meet during her early heroics?

    Salvatore needed more leads¡ªmore evidence. He leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers.

    "Who are you, Axion? And who''s backing your play?" he whispered, the gears in his mind turning. This wasn''t just a matter of finding a rogue superhero in his territory; this was a game of connections, of influence that stretched into the very heart of the metropolis.

    The thought didn''t sit well with Salvatore. He thrived on control, on being the one pulling the strings. An unknown player with resources and tech at their disposal? That was a threat to his dominion, an anomaly in his meticulously constructed order.

    "No matter," he decided, a cold resolve hardening in his eyes. "Every mystery can be unraveled, every secret exposed."

    Salvatore wasn''t petty¡ªhe understood his limits. Axion posed no immediate danger¡ªher efforts inconsequential and minuscule. Regardless, his intuition alerted him¡ªthere was more at stake now than just capturing a rogue superhero. Salvatore sensed an unseen hand was at play, a concealed agenda lay dormant beneath the surface.

    For the first time in years¡ªSalvatore experienced uncertainty. His foray into the slum yielded unexpected surprises. Initially, his plans consisted of a simple domination¡ªa consolidation of the metropolis'' leftovers. The slums were the perfect breeding grounds¡ªuntouched, uncultured.

    He could have any number of potential candidates for his Adrenomancer program¡ªto test his formula without repercussion. Unlimited opportunities. Salvatore''s aspirations did not entail subjugating the metropolis¡ªonly its castoffs. Simple¡ªuncomplicated.

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    Now, a wildcard was tossed onto the chessboard¡ªand Salvatore disliked surprises. He appreciated structure and symmetry. Chaos disrupted his order and introduced variables¡ªvariables Salvatore didn''t account for.

    "No matter," Salvatore repeated his earlier statement. "Every variable has its place¡ªevery pawn must play their part."

    Salvatore typed a series commands and opened a command prompt window. Accessing his secured server, Salvatore initiated a search protocol.

    Setting aside his preoccupations regarding Axion''s benefactor, Salvatore focused on the second variable¡ªAxion herself. Dealing with Gravikinesis proved problematic¡ªSalvatore''s Adrenomancers lacked the proper countermeasures. If her capabilities were anything remotely close to what the leader of the Ultimate Guardians, Prime, could achieve...

    "Time to even the odds," Salvatore murmured as he entered the relevant keywords. His software algorithms sieved through official and underground databases alike¡ªbringing forth a plethora of data.

    Finding any relevant information regarding telekinetic or gravikinetic phenomenons was a long shot, but Salvatore wasn''t above exploring unconventional avenues.

    Within mere moments, his algorithm produced a promising lead¡ªa research paper titled "Tidal Force Sensitivity Index" authored by an obscure scientist named Edith Weiss.

    The name was new to him, an uncommon occurrence for someone who prided himself on knowing every prominent researcher in his field. Salvatore downloaded the document and proceeded to scan the contents. Within the opening paragraph, his eyebrows rose¡ªgravikinesis, the manipulation of graviton particles.

    Salvatore was a chemist¡ªphysics and quantum mechanics were a hobby of his¡ªbut a correlation between tidal forces and meta-abilities? Salvatore had never encountered research so specific¡ªso detailed. The publish date was recent, a finding that only added to the allure.

    It wasn''t just the content that intrigued him but the platform it resided on¡ªshared through the same underground networks he frequented, meant for those who had been cast out by the city''s scientific elite.

    As he read further, his eyes widened upon seeing the name of the research subject¡ªAxion.

    Salvatore abruptly stood up from his chair. For the first time in years, his pulse quickened. His algorithm unearthed a gold mine. Salvatore immediately committed the findings and methodology of the study to memory. Every detail. Every nuance. He didn''t question Edith Weiss''s credibility¡ªAxion''s capabilities validated her research.

    But more importantly, now he was almost certain who Axion''s sponsor was¡ªEdith Weiss herself.

    Salvatore''s fingers flew across the keyboard as he initiated a search for anything relating to this Edith Weiss. His algorithm brought forth a list of profiles¡ªinformation spanning from her educational credentials to her employment history.

    "Former biogeneticist employed by Metropolis'' leading pharmaceutical company," Salvatore read aloud. The title and job description indicated a prominent researcher and an influential position¡ªwithin the upper echelons.

    Dr. Edith Weiss, it seemed, was a pariah among her peers, a genius whose brilliance was marred by her blatant disregard for the boundaries deemed sacrosanct by the conservative factions within the metropolis''s scientific elite. Her methods and research were deemed too radical¡ªtoo controversial.

    Salvatore grinned¡ªthis Edith Weiss had a familiar story. Much like his past self.

    He continued his investigation¡ªHis screens lit up with tab after tab of meticulously organized data that peeled back the layers of her life. He discovered her brilliance in genetics and Metahuman research, a mind potentially as sharp as his own but directed towards the secrets of human evolution.

    Weiss''s most ambitious project¡ªunlocking the secret to the artificial creation of the Metahuman genome¡ªresulted in the termination of her contract and her standing within the scientific community. Her research had crossed the proverbial line¡ªWeiss had gone too far and disregarded moral and ethical codes.

    Branded a hoax, her theories were mocked as the delusions of a madwoman. Her sponsors abandoned her¡ªcasting her aside and stripping her of her reputation and academic credentials.

    "Project Genesis¡ªGenetically Engineered Metahuman Individuals..." Salvatore had heard rumors regarding Metahuman experimentations¡ªbut no legitimate source ever surfaced. Until now, it seemed.

    Salvatore''s mind raced with possibilities. If Weiss had managed to unlock the secrets of the Metahuman genome, then the implications were staggering. It wasn''t just about Axion anymore; it was about the potential to wield power on a scale previously unimaginable. The ability to create Metahumans, to shape the very essence of human potential and evolution, was a prize worth any risk.

    As he pieced together the timeline of Weiss''s career, Salvatore discovered her exile, a punishment meted out by the city-state''s officials for her obstinacy and her refusal to abandon her quest.

    Weiss willingly fled the metropolis¡ªescaping punishment and leaving behind her old life. Salvatore hypothesized her sponsors threatened legal repercussions and criminal proceedings¡ªa possibility consistent with the metropolis'' strict regulations and governing rules.

    But more intriguing was her migration to the slums¡ªSalvatore couldn''t imagine anyone willingly choosing the squalor and poverty within the slum''s confines. Unless...Weiss relocated intentionally. Salvatore had assumed her banishment was permanent¡ªan exile that forced her into permanent displacement. He reconsidered¡ªperhaps her flight was planned.

    The timing was auspicious, but after thinking about it further, he realized that just like him, Weiss figured that the slum-dwellers presented a unique population pool¡ªperfect subjects for her controversial research. Salvatore could respect Weiss''s ingenuity¡ªshe''d found the ideal subjects¡ªaway from the metropolis''s eyes and laws while still being close enough to reliably acquire any supplies and materials from sources who hadn''t abandoned her.

    Sources like Dynatech and OptiMax, perhaps.

    Companies Weiss likely had a past relationship with prior to her exile. Salvatore wasn''t surprised¡ªwealthy, prestigious companies such as Dynatech and OptiMax had no issue breaking their contracts and morals as long as profit was involved.

    Salvatore admired Weiss''s cleverness. Her isolation was her salvation. Exiled to the slums, Weiss had found her sanctuary. Her brilliant mind would have no problem adjusting to the ramshackle environment, especially since the metropolis readily discarded her.

    The more Salvatore learned about Weiss''s exile, the more he understood the depth of her obsession. She was a fellow disgraced genius¡ªa woman who, much like himself, pursued goals no conventional mind could comprehend. She sought knowledge and truth¡ªunafraid of crossing boundaries and facing the inevitable backlash.

    Salvatore approved¡ªWeiss had earned his admiration. But more than that, her expertise and research were invaluable. He craved Weiss''s intellect and expertise¡ªif her research contained the secrets of Metahumans and their genes...

    Axion was no longer important¡ªthe slums itself mattered no longer.

    No. Salvatore desired Weiss and her research¡ªnothing else. Finding her and claiming her was now his ultimate goal¡ªat all costs.

    He contemplated a multitude of strategies¡ªhis objectives shifted. Reaching for his smartphone, Salvatore dialed a number. Seconds later, a masked face appeared on the screen.

    "Mirage. I have an important mission for you. Find and track an individual named Edith Weiss. She''s somewhere in the slums. Retrieve her¡ªAlive."

    Salvatore terminated the call and began devising a new strategy.

    Those five Adrenomancers weren''t going to be enough to capture Axion and Weiss¡ªnot if Virgil intervened.

    No. Salvatore foresaw the need for a more substantial force. He initiated another phone call. Moments passed, and his Head of Operations at the other facility answered.

    "Mr. Salvatore. How can we assist you today?"

    Salvatore allowed his lips to curl into a grin.

    "Luca. Ready a transport¡ªbring a hundred Adrenomancers. I''ll send you the details."

 Chapter 60: Hunting the Reaper?

    Raze sauntered along the crowded streets¡ªan apex predator amidst his natural habitat. A flock of slum-dwellers avoided his path¡ªa bubble of empty space formed as word of his presence spread.

    Let the rats chatter. Those who dared gawk were swiftly cowed into submission. Nothing more than prey. Fear. Submission. Pack dynamics¡ªeasy as 1-2-3. Raze had no interest in instigating a hunt. Not yet.

    Not until he eliminated the prey his boss ordered him to kill.

    Boss''s orders. Raze liked obedience¡ªtaking orders excited him. Boss was boss¡ªRaze submitted. Happily. Boss promised violence. Blood. Pain. Lots of fun. Boss cared. Boss gave him serum. Boosted him. Made him strong. Stronger than the puny prey surrounding him. Raze enjoyed his serum. His veins sang. Pulses of fire fueling his muscles. Serum was nice. Boss was nicer. Raze followed.

    Behind him, Blitz paced impatiently. Impulsive. Twitchy. Blitz didn''t appreciate obedience. Boss''s orders frustrated Blitz. Too bad. Boss was boss¡ªBlitz couldn''t resist. Boss controlled serum. Boss controlled Blitz. Boss controlled him. Raze laughed¡ªBlitz disliked submission. Too funny.

    "Will you stop grinning and hurry the hell up?!" Blitz hissed. "You''re moving at a fucking snail''s pace. Hurry the fuck UP."

    Raze ignored Blitz and hummed happily. Blitz''s whining. Fun. Raze walked slower.

    "I swear to GOD. If you don''t speed up, I''ll KILL you. Move your DAMN legs and¡ª"

    Blitz''s rambling was background noise¡ªRaze didn''t care. Boss ordered Raze and Blitz to eliminate Backfire. Boss ordered Havoc and Voltaire to meet with the Big Four. Boss ordered Mirage to look for someone. Boss did not mention why. Boss didn''t have to. Raze and Blitz obeyed. Simple. Easy.

    Boss was boss. Raze listened.

    Raze scanned his surroundings. Slum-dwellers. Prey. Panicking. Squirming. Afraid. Amusing. Raze''s territory. His hunting ground. Blitz could complain¡ªRaze didn''t care. Territory belonged to him. Slow stroll. Boss said Backfire hiding in slums. Target would come to him. All Raze needed to do was wait. Easy. Boss did all the planning. Smart boss. Clever. Tricky.

    Raze smirked. Hunt soon.

    <hr>

    Virgil crouched atop a dilapidated building¡ªhis scarred, weatherworn duster flapping gently in the wind. Beneath the brim of his Stetson cowboy hat, his steely gaze surveyed the streets below.

    With a practiced eye, he spotted his quarry¡ªa duo of Adrenomancers. One burly and lumbering. Another lean and darting. Both pumped up on Salvatore''s serum. Both a threat. Virgil wasn''t afraid¡ªhe''d faced worse.

    From his perch, Virgil sized them up.

    One Titan variant, and one Hyperion. Neither were Metahumans, but their enhancements made them formidable nonetheless. Hyperions were speedsters¡ªcapable of outrunning a car. Titans were a juggernaut class, impervious to pain and armed with superhuman strength and durability. Neither types were pleasantries.

    Salvatore''s serum was no joke¡ªit pushed baseline humans beyond their limits, granting Adrenomancers unnatural physical capabilities. The side effects were a death sentence¡ªfive years tops. Most users wasted away from their damaged organs and ravaged biology. Five years was generous¡ªmost Adrenomancers died after three.

    Virgil clicked his tongue and spat. That bastard Salvatore valued the endgame over the means. Sacrificing pawns to win a match. Typical. Salvatore wouldn''t hesitate sacrificing these two Adrenomancers either. Virgil almost felt sorry for these fools.

    Almost.

    These Adrenomancers chose the devil''s path¡ªVirgil wasn''t charitable. Not today. These bastards wouldn''t walk away. Not alive, at least.

    Edith wanted him to keep one of them alive though. She wanted to find out how Salvatore''s serum worked.

    A tall order. Holding back against these dangerous bastards required a delicate touch. Virgil would need to minimize his lethal techniques and rely on restraint. Tricky¡ªthese Adrenomancers would fight until their last breath. Taking prisoners wasn''t his style. Edith''s request went against his habits. Habits Virgil wouldn''t shake overnight.

    This better be worth it.

    Virgil''s trigger fingers flexed¡ªhis hand reaching for his Colt Peacemaker revolver. An old gun, but reliable. Customized firearms were hard to come across¡ªlet alone a working Colt revolver.

    Gun drawn, Virgil cocked his Peacemaker and leaped off the rooftop¡ªlanding nimbly before the two Adrenomancers. He twirled the revolver, aiming the barrel directly at the big Adrenomancer''s skull.

    "Howdy," Virgil drawled. "Reckon the two of y''all are lost. It don''t matter. Salvatore won''t miss trash."

    Virgil received no verbal response. Instead, the Hyperion hanging in the back dashed forward¡ªfast. Too fast. Virgil''s pistol barely tracked him.

    "Too slow!" the Hyperion taunted as he closed the gap. "You can''t hit me!"

    Virgil fired his revolver¡ªthe ethereal bullet barely missing the Adrenomancer as the latter agilely dodged to the left. Unperturbed, Virgil rapidly spun the chamber and fired a second round. Then a third. A fourth. A fifth. With each pull of the trigger, the Peacemaker''s cylinders rotated, emptying a new round as the previous bullets exploded into a barrage of ethereal energy bolts.

    The Hyperion danced around each blast, evading each shot as his Titan comrade rushed Virgil. Virgil holstered his gun and leaped over the incoming charge. Vaulting overhead, he drew his pair of iron daggers and slashed downward at the Titan''s shoulder as he landed.

    The Titan raised an arm in defense and caught Virgil''s strike against his forearm. The titan''s skin hardened¡ªbulging with coils of reinforced tissue beneath. The blades bounced off the Adrenomancer''s augmented musculature, earning a loud chuckle from the former.

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    "Puny," the Titan sneered as he lunged. Virgil dove out of the way¡ªrolling sideways to avoid a follow-up punch. A second attack. A third. Each time, Virgil narrowly ducked or sidestepped. Each missed swing threw the Titan off balance¡ªgiving Virgil the opportunity to close in and land a cut.

    But the Adrenomancer didn''t falter.

    The Hyperion darted behind and joined the fray. In the span of a blink, Virgil found himself pressured from both sides. The Hyperion''s speed coupled with the Titan''s raw power created an unpredictable mix of attacks¡ªforcing Virgil to fall back and resort to defense.

    Firing a few shots of cover fire, Virgil retreated¡ªmoving fluidly between alleyways and open spaces. The Hyperion matched Virgil''s speed¡ªjumping between rooftops and staying close. Meanwhile, the Titan plowed through the alleys, blowing through obstacles like a wrecking ball.

    Despite their disorganized teamwork, Virgil fought cautiously¡ªcareful to ensure he maintained an escape route.

    As the Hyperion charged with inhuman speed, Virgil sprang backwards¡ªbounding off a wall to gain additional height as he fired. Eyes shimmering, he switched his next shot to a Temporal Round.

    The shot rang out, the bullet trailing a faint, ghostly light, cutting through the space between them. It hit¡ªthe Hyperion frozen in midair.

    Virgil used this brief pause to roll to the side, positioning himself behind a crumbling wall for cover. The Titan smashed through moments later. As the Titan emerged through the wreckage, Virgil aimed his revolver and fired.

    The Titan took the bullets head on. The rounds sank harmlessly into his flesh, drawing blood but little else. The Adrenomancer shrugged off the hits and continued his charge.

    Virgil leaped backwards again¡ªthis time leaping onto a dumpster for height. As he jumped, he fired two shots imbued with a Bullet Bond effect¡ªone shot aimed at the Hyperion, the other at the Titan. The ethereal energy bullet latched onto both Adrenomancers as it struck¡ªtying them together with an ethereal connection.

    As the Hyperion broke free of the Temporal Round''s effects, Virgil aimed and fired another shot. The energy bullet whizzed through the air¡ªthe ethereal bolt striking the Hyperion in the leg, forcing him to a knee. At the same time, a similar wound manifested on the Titan''s leg.

    Virgil smirked¡ªBullet Bond was useful. Any damage applied to one Adrenomancer was mirrored to the other. The Titan might be resilient to the force behind his ethereal bullets, but the effects of the bond bypassed biological defenses. As long as Virgil could inflict damage on the Hyperion''s quicker, softer flesh, the bond would allow him to injure the Titan as well.

    The Titan, despite sustaining mirrored wounds, barreled onward. Virgil waited. Patience. Timing.

    At the last minute, Virgil pivoted to the side, barely evading a wild haymaker from the Adrenomancer. As the Titan passed, Virgil fired a Phantom Shot through him. The spectral bullet phased through the Titan''s torso and hit the Hyperion on his back. Both Adrenomancers staggered.

    "Shit!" the Hyperion cursed, the wounds on his leg and back bleeding freely. Beside him, the Titan roared angrily¡ªcharging forward yet again. Virgil leaped once more. Onto a ledge. Over a dumpster. Onto an awning.

    Round and around they went, the Titan charging recklessly as Virgil evaded. Occasionally, the Hyperion interfered¡ªattempting to flank Virgil and shoot him with a submachine gun.

    Guess he got tired of being the only one getting shot at.

    Virgil evaded each burst, returning fire whenever the Hyperion grew too close. Eventually the Hyperion wisened¡ªchanging tactics and firing from range. The Hyperion strafed and circled Virgil, keeping him occupied with suppressive fire. At the same time, the Titan rushed in¡ªattempting to bulldoze him each time.

    Eventually the Titan scored a lucky hit¡ªa glancing blow that Virgil failed to dodge. The punch was like a freight train, knocking the air out of his lungs. A follow-up slam drove him into a wall. Virgil crumpled, and the Titan loomed overhead triumphantly.

    "Got you."

    Virgil smirked and fired the Temporal Round imbued Colt round stored within his Peacemaker.

    "Think again."

    Time froze for the Titan, allowing Virgil a moment''s reprieve. Rising unsteadily to his feet, Virgil dashed away¡ªevading the Hyperion''s submachine gun. As time resumed, the Titan swung wildly¡ªbellowing in anger.

    Virgil kept running¡ªleaping over a pile of rubble and springboarding off a wall.

    Whenever the Hyperion reloaded or recovered, Virgil would fire a Bullet Bond and tag him¡ªconnecting the duo, and allowing Virgil to punish them both.

    Round and round they went.

    Virgil toyed with the duo¡ªwaiting for an opening. An error. An opportunity. Whenever the Hyperion strayed too far, Virgil would clip him. Whenever the Titan overextended, Virgil would wound him. Back and forth, a tug-of-war dragged on¡ªeach participant searching for an advantage.

    Finally¡ªVirgil saw his chance.

    The Hyperion dashed too far. Virgil tagged him. The Titan charged recklessly. Virgil fired. Bullet Bond. Phantom Shot. Direct hit. Temporal Round. Freeze.

    "End of the line." Virgil stalked forward. Gun raised. Two pulls of the trigger. Bang. Bang. Boom.

    Bleeding profusely from their shared wounds, the Hyperion and the Titan lay on the floor. Virgil stood above them¡ªpeering down coldly. Neither struggled. Both were badly wounded¡ªblood pooling beneath their fallen forms. Virgil had no doubt a few shots incapacitated the Hyperion permanently.

    Now came the question of the Titan. Should he risk taking him prisoner? The Adrenomancer''s thickened epidermis prevented further damage.

    If Edith needed to dissect an Adrenomancer to get her data, the Titan wasn''t an option. He was too durable. Too resilient. Even if Virgil tranquilized him and transported him unconscious, the serum''s enhancement would likely metabolize the sedative and restore his consciousness.

    That left the Hyperion.

    Virgil knelt by the Titan''s fallen form and plunged the barrel of his Colt revolver into the large Adrenomancer''s mouth. Using the tip of the barrel, Virgil pried the Titan''s clenched teeth open and locked the hammer of his Peacemaker with his thumb.

    An amber glow manifested around the barrel as Virgil imbued the cylinder with a Searing Brand. The Titan squirmed, his eyes widening. Virgil pressed the barrel deeper, jamming the weapon further into his target''s throat. Satisfied with his placement, Virgil squeezed the trigger.

    "Night-night."

    A blinding flash erupted¡ªwhite-hot tongues of golden flame seared the Titan''s oral cavity and burnt his flesh. Virgil watched dispassionately as the Adrenomancer writhed and twitched, his mouth blackening and sizzling. Within seconds, the Titan''s struggles weakened. Seconds more¡ªand his chest ceased its rise and fall.

    Virgil rose to his feet and strode towards the Hyperion.

    "Now¡ªto deal with you." Virgil nudged the Hyperion''s limp body with a boot. The Adrenomancer responded weakly¡ªglazed eyes cracking open.

    "Fuck...you," the Hyperion wheezed. "Do it. Shoot me."

    Virgil did not oblige. Not immediately. Instead¡ªhe crouched. Leaning in. Face to face.

    "Sorry pal," Virgil mocked. "I ain''t the one pulling the trigger. Doc''s orders."

    "Wha...?"

    Virgil didn''t explain.

    "Don''t worry. You won''t suffer long." He raised his fist and slammed it into the Hyperion''s skull.

    Hard.

    Unconscious.

    Virgil collected his prize and whistled a tune.

    Mission accomplished.

 Chapter 61: Behind Enemy Lines

    "Got what you wanted. Hope it''s all worth it ''cause their drug harnesses tend to detonate post-mortem or a while after getting captured." Virgil entered the clinic bearing his trophy¡ªa limp Adrenomancer tossed over one shoulder. Edith craned her head over the room''s edge to eye the captured Adrenomancer. She appeared distracted¡ªas if she wasn''t entirely there.

    Virgil didn''t press the issue. He dumped the fallen Hyperion unceremoniously on a gurney.

    Edith strode towards him¡ªfiddling with some equipment as she moved. He caught a glimpse of a set of scanners and medical tools. Whatever. Edith could play her little science experiment. He''d take the opportunity to rest. Combat was taxing work.

    "Sure," she said noncommittally.

    Virgil didn''t answer¡ªthe duo''s usual pattern. A give-and-take. The back-and-forth worked for them¡ªmechanistic and methodical. A business relationship¡ªwith some fringe benefits. Nothing more. Virgil preferred his "benefits" over Edith''s aloofness¡ªshe could be cold and clinical. Then again¡ªso was he. It was fine. Mutually beneficial.

    "Guess I''ll leave you to your business," Virgil said. "Shoot me a message when you''re done. We''re done for now. Gotta prepare for the next attack. Figure out what the hell Salvatore''s playin'' at." He turned to leave.

    "Wait," Edith halted his departure.

    Virgil stopped in his tracks.

    "What?" he responded. "You need somethin'' else?"

    "I heard you had one of your ''talks'' with Fii again," Edith confronted, crossing her arms. "About killing."

    Virgil wasn''t expecting a topic change. She wanted to discuss this¡ªnow? Of all the inconvenient timing¡ªthis took the cake.

    He put aside his annoyance. A quick word and he''d be outta here. "Yeah. About killin''. No use keepin'' that from the kid. She can''t afford to be soft anymore. Not in this line of work. Too many opportunists lookin'' to exploit a weakness. Gotta adapt. Evolve. And for that, you gotta go hard or go home."

    Virgil studied Edith''s scowling face¡ªhmph. He didn''t sign up for relationship advice. "Thought you''d get where I''m comin'' from," he hinted pointedly. "Don''t need to explain."

    Edith scoffed. "Just because we don''t practice soft doesn''t mean we have to be callous. That girl''s out there getting torn up. In case you missed her injuries from her last fight." Virgil turned away to leave. "Look¡ªI''m just saying...you don''t need to be an asshat. Quinn doesn''t like your tough-guy act. I don''t blame him either."

    "Who the hell''s side are you on?" Virgil grunted.

    "Fii''s. Look. I get your motives¡ªtough love, and all that. I''m more on your side on this one," Edith relented. "You''re right. Fii does need to step things up¡ªotherwise she''s gonna be roadkill." Virgil caught her faint smirk. "Still¡ªdon''t need to be a dick about it, right? Give her a few words of encouragement. Don''t need to give her an ultimatum to change. The girl already feels terrible enough."

    "Says you. Your bedside manners aren''t exactly what I''d call comforting. The kid respects me. Not you," Virgil argued. "Might as well put my two cents in now. Beat that into her before she''s six feet under." He gestured to the motionless body behind them. "Maybe then she''d wise up."

    "Hmph. Well. It''s still on your conscience when the girl inevitably breaks down. You sure you''ll sleep alright? Going to bed knowing your words send her down a spiral?" Edith retorted. She rubbed her temples. "Never mind. It''s late. You have the right to do whatever you want. We all have the right to say what we want." She waved dismissively. "Shoo."

    Virgil decided to take his leave¡ªbetter not to continue this pointless squabble. Their conversation wouldn''t accomplish anything productive. Besides¡ªhe wanted a quiet, relaxing night¡ªnot another useless discussion. Virgil closed the clinic door and headed in the direction of the Neon Alley. Time for a well-deserved break. He could use the brief reprieve after today''s fight.

    <hr>

    Outside the clinic, he spotted Kenzo emerging from an alleyway, playing with his hair.

    Virgil sidestepped the man and proceeded without acknowledging his presence. He didn''t have the patience or energy to engage in small talk with Kenzo¡ªhe needed his shut-eye. The previous confrontation had depleted his reserves.

    "Oi, Virgil!" Kenzo caught his shoulder and spun him around. Virgil ripped himself out of Kenzo''s grip. Dammit. So much for avoiding Kenzo''s useless babbling.

    "What do you want?" Virgil demanded. He folded his arms¡ªchallenging Kenzo to engage.

    "I heard about what happened at the Rust Market a couple of days ago," Kenzo responded. "Did that Salvatore guy send in more Adrenomancers?"

    "Yeah. Axion took on five of ''em. Ended in a draw when it should have been a total wipeout. The girl''s still holdin'' herself back. Now''s not the time for that." Virgil tilted his head in the clinic''s direction. "I hunted two of ''em down. Killed one and brought the other one over for Edith. She probably wants to figure out how Salvatore''s serum works." He snorted. "Let''s hope she doesn''t create any new weapons with its secrets."

    Kenzo raised his eyebrows. "Whoa. Sounds serious." He eyed the clinic warily. "Edith''s experimenting with Salvatore''s serums? Isn''t that...kinda dangerous?"

    "Beats me. Far as I care¡ªthat''s not my problem. Just a heads-up," Virgil replied curtly. "Anythin'' else? Otherwise¡ªleave. I need to get a breather."

    Kenzo cleared his throat. "Yeah. I actually needed to ask a question¡ªa bit random. Maybe it can wait till later when you''re in a better mood, but..."

    "Make it quick." Virgil tamped down the rising urge to lash out at Kenzo''s self-imposed reservations.

    "Sure," Kenzo acquiesced. "I''m gonna be helping a friend out, sometime soon. They''re involved in a gang war...against the Echo Syndicate."

    Virgil''s gaze hardened. Kenzo didn''t need to go into detail. He already had a fair guess. "And who is this...friend? What exactly do they need help with? You plan on starting trouble, Kenzo?"

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    "It''s...kinda complicated. Look. We got a whole history together¡ªtrust me when I say it''s difficult to explain," Kenzo said sheepishly. "Anyway¡ªjust a heads-up in case things get heated¡ªand trust me¡ªthere''ll be plenty of fire. My friend...kinda did something they shouldn''t have...and I need to fix a problem. Y''know what I mean?"

    Virgil pinched the bridge of his nose. Great. Kenzo didn''t answer his damn question. How reliable. He sighed. "Just spill it already." He locked eyes with Kenzo. "Remember¡ªI''ll shoot you for this. In case you forget¡ªI hate bullshitting and even bigger liars."

    Kenzo''s palms shot upwards in mock surrender. "Hey¡ªlook. It''s a bit personal and kinda complicated, all right?" He brushed the back of his head and averted eye contact. "Don''t worry. After this, I''ll help you dismantle Salvatore''s drug facility¡ªno questions asked. Alright? All you need to know is¡ªmy friend is in a spot of trouble and I gotta help. Just don''t get involved. Okay? This is my problem¡ªnot yours."

    "Right." Virgil couldn''t help but find the situation suspicious. He raised an eyebrow. "Anything else? I''m giving you time to speak¡ªmake sure to make your story airtight."

    Kenzo shifted uneasily. He stuck his hands in his pockets. "This is all I''m willing to divulge for now. Oh¡ªtell Axion not to get involved either. Though, I''m sure she has her hands full with those Adrenomancers..." His eyes flickered momentarily towards Edith''s clinic.

    "Sure." Virgil jabbed an index finger into Kenzo''s chest. "You know better than to screw us over. Else...there will be consequences. The girl''s taken a shine to you, Kenzo. She seems to think you''re a good person. I won''t say otherwise unless you prove me wrong. We clear?"

    "Crystal clear." Kenzo flashed a half-smile. "Relax. I don''t plan on backstabbing my allies." He shifted the headphones on his neck. "This ain''t the metropolis. There''s honor here. An understanding¡ªrespect."

    Kenzo clapped his hand on Virgil''s shoulder. "Get yourself a drink¡ªget something good. We''ll all need some if we''re gonna put the hurt on Salvatore. Later, man." He pivoted on his heel and strode off.

    Virgil watched Kenzo leave until his outline vanished into the alleyways.

    Hmm.

    He cracked a small smile. Kenzo always surprised him. Perhaps that was why he stuck around.

    He''d let him pass today.

    After all¡ªhis gut feeling told him that Kenzo meant well. Virgil trusted his gut. It had seldom deceived him.

    <hr>

    Mirage watched "Backfire" leave the premises¡ªheading in the direction of the Neon Alley. Her cloaking device deconstructed¡ªtransitioning her into visibility as she leaned against the clinic''s back alley. She appeared absorbed in deep thought¡ªleaning on her rakishly tilted rapier.

    So...this was the place where her new target resided? Didn''t seem too conspicuous. Plain, dingy, and nondescript. A forgettable place amongst an equally unmemorable landscape.

    Mirage had to sacrifice two of her colleagues for the info. It was a bit pricey for her liking, but it was the quickest way to locate Edith Weiss. This mission was specifically tasked for her¡ªwith its specific constraints. And that meant cutting corners when necessary. Salvatore allowed it. He wanted the woman captured at all costs.

    This "Edith" person. Who the hell was she? This unremarkable backstreet physician must be an important part of Salvatore''s scheme. Was she involved with Axion as well? Whatever the case, her capture was Mirage''s job now. Time to get to work.

    She activated her cloaking device. She smirked as her form faded away.

    An incredible little device. One of a kind. Salvatore really splashed out to obtain it. Still¡ªhe never shied away from money¡ªespecially when he believed it''d benefit his business ventures. Now that Mirage possessed it, she had to admit¡ªit certainly upped her gameplay.

    Mirage approached the entrance of the clinic with the same grace as a prowling cat¡ªa graceful silhouette wavering through the air. The sliding door parted with a mechanical whir and a small whoosh of air. The faux-plastic doors and metal panels peeled to either side to grant Mirage entry. A chiming sound chimed as she slipped through the entryway¡ªbut the few nurses or patients scattered throughout paid her no heed. None were able to track her movements, and all of the equipment inside registered her invisible presence as a glitching static mess.

    Once inside, Mirage strode carefully around the scattered crowd and passed through the primary clinic halls. She perused her surroundings carefully.

    Unbelievable. This facility...was inefficient. So cluttered and lacking organization¡ªall signs pointing to incompetence. Any clandestine agent would tear this place apart. All that occupied the hallway were busy nurses, disheveled and overwhelmed individuals seeking a quick remedy for a fever or a scraped knee. It was pitiful.

    Back in the metropolis¡ªmedical centers conducted operations much more efficiently. Hospitals were mostly automated, allowing them to tackle every health-related need without the need for human interference. She wasn''t surprised¡ªbackwater zones had technology and concepts well out-of-date and useless. The people who resided here were lucky if they were familiar with basic hygiene. It was truly unfortunate¡ªeven sad¡ªthat so many individuals existed in these depraved conditions.

    As Mirage traversed the congested hallways of the primary clinic area¡ªshe eventually entered a single room. Inside sat the prize she sought¡ªthe prize Salvatore was after. There¡ªEdith Weiss¡ªhard at work, back turned and preoccupied, tinkering with the unconscious Blitz''s Adrenomancer harness. Her entire attention appeared devoted to the Adrenomancer before her.

    Mirage watched as Edith crouched and played with a needle attached to Blitz''s right forearm. Occasionally, the syringe would pump liquid in¡ªsometimes drawing a small amount of blood or fluid into a test tube.

    Strange.

    Salvatore had designed a few countermeasures around those harnesses in case someone tried to hijack them or repurpose the materials within¡ªyet the doctor was able to fiddle with Blitz''s harness without resistance. How?

    Was this the reason why Salvatore wanted her? No. It couldn''t be just that. His thoughts and aspirations were more nuanced and complex¡ªmore layered.

    Still¡ªwatching the doctor''s adept hands fiddling with the various parts of Blitz''s drug harness confirmed this Edith woman held the expertise needed. Was she a mastermind on Salvatore''s level? A rival? The possibility was high. And that meant Salvatore planned on utilizing her to his advantage.

    Mirage scouted the surroundings¡ªeyes gliding over the disheveled desk. Spread on its surface lay an assortment of data files, medical data chips, and computers. Everything on it appeared locked with a digital seal. Irrelevant. Not important for now.

    Satisfied, Mirage performed a slow turn¡ªpeering at her surroundings. No windows. No access points except through the sole entryway she used. A small and enclosed area.

    She frowned.

    Grabbing her target and making an escape through this building''s chaotic traffic of bodies would be...problematic.

    No. Improbable. Her cloaking device only masked her body and nearby sound¡ªnot everything else. Exiting the front entrance unseen with Edith was an unrealistic gamble. Mirage wouldn''t have had much of an issue if this had been just an assassination mission.

    Salvatore had ordered "capture¡ªalive."

    If she couldn''t complete that objective, he settled for her exact location instead. Either was acceptable.

    Mirage''s eyes lingered on the doctor.

    No matter how much of a genius this woman was supposed to be¡ªit''d still take a long time before she made significant progress with the Adrenomancer harness.

    So...no rush. The target wasn''t going anywhere.

    Mirage exited the clinic and drifted back into the alleyways.

    She removed a communication earpiece and placed it within her ear. On the other end, she connected to a voice channel with her employer.

    "Talk to me, Mirage," Salvatgore''s distorted voice commanded.

    "I found our quarry," she whispered. "Sending the coordinates now."

 Chapter 62: No Rest for the Wicked

    Kasumi scowled as she perused the images displayed on her laptop screen. Her mouth tightened as she swiped between pictures¡ªimages sent from one of her scouts monitoring Axion''s recent movements. They showed a picture of Axion fighting off members of Salvatore''s Adrenomancer crew in the Rust Market.

    Apparently, they fought to a draw¡ªAxion managed to get away while the Adrenomancers licked their wounds. Kasumi bit her lip. She couldn''t tell which option enraged her more: Axion getting away or the fact that she managed to go toe-to-toe against five Adrenomancers.

    Five...

    Though Kasumi never fought against one, even she realized how formidable those monstrosities were. She would need to get the jump on one and use her nanowires to immobilize and shred them¡ªbut that alone proved challenging.

    To face multiple? Impossible.

    But somehow Axion managed to pull it off¡ªwhich meant that she either got lucky...or she possessed powers far more advanced than what she showed when they met at the pharmaceutical building.

    Was that girl holding out on her? It didn''t feel like it. So...how? What happened to her during the relatively short time since they last fought? Would Kasumi be able to win a rematch?

    No.

    As much as she hated admitting that...it was likely she''d lose if she tried again¡ªand lose decisively. And that pissed her off to no end. That Axion had the gall to stand above her...above the Neon Vipers...that alone grated her nerves. To Kasumi¡ªit felt like an affront to her pride and authority. The notion that some amateur Super could best her? Disgusting.

    It shouldn''t be possible...and yet here she was. The proof lay in her image, displayed clearly on the laptop screen. A photo showing Axion taking down Blitz and Raze as if they were fodder.

    Kasumi set her laptop onto a nearby couch. She grimaced and closed her eyes. She focused on evening her breath¡ªdeep inhales and exhales. One. Two. Three. She released the air through her teeth in a slow hiss. Her scowl lessened ever so slightly.

    A small victory. Kasumi preferred not to dwell on things she couldn''t control.

    What happened¡ªhappened. Worrying about the past was useless. Now all she had to do was focus on moving forward¡ªfinding solutions to her problems and adapting to overcome new ones. As always. Life went on.

    Vaughn tapped her shoulder, interrupting her thoughts. "Cobra?" he called out warily.

    Kasumi ignored him, opting to rub her temples. Her stress headache would take more than a few minutes of meditation to quell. Vaughn was known to give the worst advice, and the last thing she needed right now was him rattling her brain with stupid ideas. She also needed a smoke break. Or at least some liquor to calm her nerves.

    "Cobra," Vaughn repeated¡ªthis time with a hint of urgency.

    She shot him a withering glare. "What?" she spat irritably. "I''m trying to relax."

    Vaughn backed off, holding his hands up. "My bad. But our lookouts say the Echo Syndicate is snooping around the area again. They''re getting closer to the warehouse. This time, they brought more people." He eyed her apprehensively. "If we don''t send them packing soon, they''ll start poking their heads around and figure out where we hold operations."

    Kasumi pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. The Neon Vipers didn''t have the manpower or gear to take on the Echo Syndicate head-on. She was too hopeful banking on the lie that Axion was working with them in distributing the Shiver drug. Too confident that she''d get an easy two birds with one stone.

    Now Axion had gotten stronger...and she still had to deal with those goons from the Echo Syndicate. A nightmare scenario. Nothing ever came easy in this godforsaken slum.

    "Get everyone ready for combat," Kasumi ordered Vaughn. "We''ll ambush the first team we find. I don''t care how many of them are out there. We''ll keep hammering them until they run out of thugs and leave us alone."

    Vaughn hesitated for a brief moment before nodding. "On it." He disappeared around a corner. His footsteps grew fainter as he climbed the stairs to inform the others.

    Kasumi rose from her chair and dialed Salvatore''s number on her phone. She waited a few moments as the line connected with a series of buzzes. On the other side of the line, she heard an audible click and a scratchy voice.

    "Kasumi. You caught me in a good mood," Salvatore greeted. "How are you doing on your end?"

    Kasumi leaned against the wall and propped herself upright. She adjusted the receiver close to her ear. "One of the major gangs in the slums has been hounding our turf lately. They''re out to destroy your production facility. I need you to send backup. Anything will do."

    Salvatore remained silent on the other end of the line. Kasumi imagined him stroking his chin¡ªcontemplating.

    "Well," Salvatore finally responded. "That''s problematic. Are they a particularly bothersome lot?"

    "You can say that," Kasumi replied. She drummed her fingers against the concrete wall. "The Echo Syndicate. I''ve tangled with them twice now...they''re a persistent bunch." She exhaled slowly through her lips. "I don''t have enough men to handle them if they really decide to escalate things...not without serious losses on our part."

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    Salvatore hummed thoughtfully. "I''m sure you''re aware...I prefer not to use my full strength for...such matters..." he began slowly. "It would be unwise to tip my hand before everything is ready."

    "I am," Kasumi interrupted impatiently. "That''s why I''m calling for a favor here. If you don''t help me out...I won''t be able to protect your investment. Once they find it, your production facility''s doomed." She closed her eyes and rubbed her forehead. Her headache still throbbed. "Just send...a small group or something. Those five Adrenomancers who tried to kidnap Axion should be more than enough to make those idiots back off¡ª"

    "Two of them had already been killed in action," Salvatore informed her dispassionately. "Mirage is currently preoccupied. But I can send Havoc and Voltaire over. Would that suffice?"

    What? Two of them were killed? By who?

    Kasumi blinked. She kept her tone neutral. "I suppose. What happened to Blitz and Raze?"

    "Those two...proved to be disappointing investments. Let''s just say I got what I paid for...but the result was less than ideal," Salvatore answered casually.

    Kasumi bit her tongue. This man...his lackadaisical attitude regarding casualties was disconcerting.

    More importantly, did Axion kill them? Doubtful. She didn''t strike Kasumi as that type. No...someone else had to be involved. What other factor could she be missing? She chewed the inside of her lip in thought.

    Kasumi finally nodded. "Yeah¡ªyeah...they should be enough." She slid the laptop shut and cradled the receiver between her neck and shoulder. "Tell them to come quick."

    Salvatore paused momentarily on the other line. "Ah...before that¡ªKasumi." He hesitated, as if collecting his thoughts. "Do you plan on making good on our arrangement? About you working under me after everything is said and done?" he asked. His tone was friendly and congenial¡ªthe sort of voice one used when striking a business deal with an old friend.

    The question threw Kasumi off for a second. She scrunched her face. "Not interested," she snapped dismissively. "I told you. This was a one-time partnership."

    "Ah...that''s too bad," Salvatore continued airily. "Very well, then. We''ll go our separate ways once we''ve finished dealing with this last issue. As per your request...I will send Voltaire and Havoc your way immediately." A faint beep sounded as the line went dead.

    Kasumi slammed the receiver down with more force than necessary. Her eyes narrowed as she scowled at nothing in particular.

    What a slimy man. His attitude...annoyed her. Everything about him grated on her nerves. She couldn''t wait for all of this to end and cut ties with him forever.

    Still...this arrangement served its purpose. She got paid enough capital to fix her problem and bolster her gang.

    Right now, taking care of the Echo Syndicate was her main concern. Afterwards...she would worry about the future.

    She climbed up the staircase toward the warehouse''s rooftop exit. She needed a smoke before their ambush began. Her headache hadn''t gotten any better.

    <hr>

    Kasumi observed through binoculars as the Echo Syndicate thugs spread out into groups to scour the alleyways below. Most of them sported bats, knives, and tire irons¡ªsome even carried pistols and shotguns. She scanned the rooftops nearby for their snipers¡ªonly to find none.

    Excellent. Less danger for her men to deal with. Still, she knew they weren''t stupid. The only reason why she caught them off guard last time was because she got lucky with the layout. This time...it wouldn''t be as easy.

    She frowned in annoyance. At least Havoc and Voltaire would make short work of these fools. That made things less complicated for her and the Neon Vipers. Her eyes flickered over to Havoc, who crouched next to her. He wore a scowl that made it look like he bit into something bitter and sour.

    Probably didn''t take the news very well that two of his colleagues got killed. That suited Kasumi just fine¡ªshe preferred angry people during combat¡ªtheir wrath and aggression made them dangerous opponents to fight.

    Voltaire stood near the edge of the building opposite hers. Unlike Havoc, he maintained a neutral expression and merely waited for instructions. No fuss whatsoever. And while that didn''t impress her...she appreciated his professionalism.

    The rest of her Neon Viper crew, including Vaughn, spread across the rooftops around her. All of them stayed low and away from the edge of the buildings'' ledges. Some carried pipe rifles with suppressors while others opted to stay armed with melee weapons. Others had set up various traps and makeshift barricades consisting of spikes or dummies laced with explosives.

    It wasn''t the best group she could assemble...but beggars couldn''t be choosers. These were the only able-bodied thugs she had available on such short notice. Even if some were a little green...they''d do. She needed everyone here for this ambush. The Echo Syndicate was bound to come prepared this time¡ªand she couldn''t afford to have them sniffing around any longer.

    "Alright," Kasumi commanded the rest of the gangsters surrounding her. "The Echo Syndicate is onto us¡ªonto Salvatore''s investment. They''ll try to destroy what they think is ours. We won''t let them." She flashed her crew a confident smirk. "This isn''t a negotiation. Shoot until you see blood or they run screaming. Stay in position until I give the signal to move out. Got it?"

    A chorus of nods and acknowledgments rippled throughout the ranks. They kept their voices low. Everyone carried grim expressions as they checked their gear. One thing Kasumi was grateful for about these goons...was their loyalty and respect for her. As much as they joked around with her outside of battle...when they operated as a team...they understood how things worked. It made her job easier when she didn''t need to worry about their competence.

    Her eyes flitted over to the two Adrenomancers waiting nearby.

    "You two." Kasumi gestured toward Havoc and Voltaire. "Make sure the Echo Syndicate don''t escape once we start this fight. Make as big of an example out of them as you can. There should be ten teams scouting this area." Her gaze hardened. "No survivors."

    Voltaire dipped his head in acquiescence. He appeared disinterested with his assignment¡ªthough his lackluster response didn''t bother Kasumi in the slightest. His apathy meant he was obedient to a fault. Someone she could work with. A perfect yes-man.

    Havoc rolled his eyes and clicked his tongue. He glanced at Voltaire briefly before locking eyes with her. "Fine," Havoc spat in annoyance. "Just don''t get in my way¡ªor whine like a bitch when I start breaking shit. I got a bone to pick with ''em anyways since their asshat leaders turned down Salvatore''s offer." He cracked his knuckles menacingly. "That means I can tear through their ranks however I want."

    Kasumi merely nodded. That suited her just fine.

    "Let''s make this quick," she ordered. "Everyone...get ready."

    She flexed her fingers as the nanowires inside the dispensers on her gloves twitched. The material''s mechanisms activated¡ªexpanding to the tips of her fingers with a barely audible mechanical whir. The sensation reminded her of phantom limbs¡ªexcept instead of flesh and bone, it was metallic threads.

    Kasumi watched with cold, unfeeling eyes as the Echo Syndicate gang ventured into their ambush point.

    Time to slaughter.

 Chapter 63: Snake Charmer

    Kenzo inhaled deeply as he perched on a nearby rooftop overlooking the chaotic battle. His eyes flickered back and forth between Kasumi''s crew and the Echo Syndicate members trading blows and gunfire below. He drummed his fingers against the roof''s ledge as he contemplated his next move.

    Echoes in the alley told him that the Echo Syndicate planned to attack the facility producing the Shiver drug. As much as he didn''t want to directly get involved with Kasumi''s affairs, now that it had reached this stage...he had no choice but to step in. He knew Kasumi was capable, but she wouldn''t be able to handle the lieutenant of the Echo Syndicate alone.

    "Reverb" Ray.

    A master manipulator of sound waves¡ªsomeone with power rivaling his own. They''d crossed paths a few times in the past¡ªand each time Kenzo struggled to best the man in battle. Each encounter ended in a stalemate. However, unlike most foes Kenzo dealt with...this man wasn''t predictable.

    Kenzo¡¯s fingers ceased their idle drumming, falling still against the surface of the ledge. He leaned forward as he focused on a group of Echo Syndicate thugs gathering at a nearby intersection. Six Neon Viper members skirmished with them near an open courtyard. Two Vipers wielded pipe rifles while the others brandished blades or pistols. Some of the Syndicate goons went down in a hail of gunfire...but a handful managed to close the distance with their melee weapons drawn.

    His attention drifted towards an Adrenomancer creeping around the edges of the fight. Electrified whips unfurled from the man''s bracers, sending sparks arcing through the air as he lashed out at nearby Syndicate thugs. A few tried to shoot him only for their bullets to bounce off his high-tech armor.

    Kenzo frowned.

    In order to get Kasumi away from Salvatore''s grasp, he needed to get rid of these Adrenomancers without her knowing. Easier said than done. Even if she didn''t witness their demise, a lot of gangsters on both sides would recognize him. She''d find out about his involvement from her goons...and then she''d hunt him down and ask questions.

    No doubt about that.

    But...since it''s reached this point. It didn''t matter if she found out about his interference now. The only question remaining was whether she''d hold it against him once all this was over. That depended on her mental state when they reunited. Best not to let things escalate further than they already had.

    He leaped from the rooftop, his body twisting in mid-air as he landed softly on the ground, the vibration of his impact absorbed by a subtle tune that emanated from his lips. He slid a pair of headphones over his ears and rested a hand over his katana he strode casually into the battle zone.

    The first to notice his entrance was a group of Echo Syndicate enforcers. They paused, their expressions a mix of recognition and wariness. One of them leveled his pistol toward Kenzo, aiming down its sights. The man opened fire¡ªonly for Kenzo to twist out of the way of the bullets'' path with a rhythmic flourish.

    ÐýÂÉß\„Ó (Senritsu Und¨­).

    His movements synced perfectly with the music blasting through his headphones¡ªguiding him into place as if he were dancing along with the song playing in his ears. Every bullet shot passed him harmlessly as he bobbed and weaved from side to side. Kenzo rolled his neck to the beat as he sauntered closer to the group with unhurried steps.

    The Adrenomancer finally noticed Kenzo. He scowled. His electrified whips lashed out toward him at a blinding speed. Both cables snaked through the air.

    Kenzo shrugged as the whips drew near.

    ÅÄ·´Éä (Hy¨­ Hansha).

    His katana flashed through the air with a quick flick of his wrist. A crisp metallic sound reverberated throughout the alleyway as he deflected each whip with deft strikes. Each impact resulted in a small burst of sparks and electricity.

    A few of the Neon Viper gangsters stopped mid-fight and stared in awe at his performance. Another one of the Adrenomancer''s attacks came for Kenzo. The man cracked his whip at him with increased ferocity.

    Kenzo easily ducked and dodged out of the way while drawing his sword out of its scabbard with a flurry of parries and counters. He jumped high into the air as the whips tried to entangle his legs. They barely missed. When he landed back on the ground¡ªhe used a kick to launch himself forward with a quick burst of momentum.

    No need to have a fair fight. He needed to end it quick and move on.

    ¥ê¥º¥à¥é¥¤¥É (Rizumu Raido) + ¹²øQÈÐ (Ky¨­mei Ha)

    Kenzo''s eyes flashed.

    One moment¡ªKenzo stood next to the Adrenomancer. The next second¡ªhis katana tore through the man''s chest. The Adrenomancer grunted as blood poured freely from his mouth. Kenzo''s blade retracted before he slashed once more with a fluid, elegant stroke. His blade cleaved through flesh and bone¡ªand in an instant, the man''s head fell to the ground.

    The Adrenomancer''s body toppled over. Blood pooled on the ground where Kenzo stood.

    The Neon Vipers stared wide-eyed at his handiwork but soon refocused their attention on their own opponents. It wouldn''t take long for them to dispatch the rest of the Echo Syndicate grunts remaining.

    Kenzo vaulted onto the nearest rooftop with a smooth lunge. As he sprinted over the roofs of nearby buildings, he began humming along to the tunes blasting through his headphones.

    Now to deal with the other Adrenomancer lurking about. It didn''t take much time to figure out where the guy went. All he had to do was follow the sounds of gunfire and explosions coming from two streets down. They sounded nothing like the report from the usual pistol or rifle he''d expected to hear in the area. And the explosions...nobody carried around explosives during this kind of skirmish. Not when the gangs always preferred close combat whenever possible.

    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

    He quickly rounded a corner and leaped off another roof toward a pair of Syndicate grunts scrambling along an adjacent alley. He landed gracefully on their shoulders. His momentum smashed their faces against the ground before they even realized what happened.

    Kenzo bent his knees and crouched low.

    Still got it.

    He smirked to himself and continued toward the sound of battle. After turning three more corners, he found himself facing a scene that made his heart skip a beat.

    Kasumi was cornered against the crumbling wall of a dilapidated building, her breaths coming in quick, ragged gasps. She was visibly injured¡ªblood oozed from a gash on her thigh while cuts covered her arms and face. A trickle of blood leaked from her lip and a bruise marked her forehead.

    Her dark bodysuit bore a multitude of slash marks and tears. A massive chunk of concrete lay on the ground at her feet. A few wires dangled limply from the end of her gloves.

    Reverb Ray stood a few meters away, his mask''s equalizer oscillating across its display in waves while an ear-grating sound echoed through the alleyway. His silver hair seemed to shimmer with each sonic boom that erupted from his fingertips, directed squarely at Kasumi. He aimed his palms at her as she tried to evade his attacks by sliding along the ground or clinging onto the sides of walls. Each time she attempted to escape the assault¡ªshe was hit by another sonic boom that knocked her off her perch.

    The ground between them was littered with debris, fallen bricks and steel rebar lay scattered amid scorch marks and blast holes. It looked like a war zone. A handful of corpses wearing both gang colors lay motionless in puddles of blood. None of them remained unburnt or untouched by whatever happened here. Many had missing limbs or exposed internal organs.

    Kasumi slid back onto the ground with a heavy thud as one of Reverb''s attacks pushed her into a nearby building''s wall. Kenzo grimaced as he heard a soft whimper escape her lips.

    As he was about to leap to her defense, a massive explosion erupted behind him. The blast knocked him off his feet and sent him hurtling through the air toward a nearby rooftop. He rolled to a stop near the edge of the roof and coughed. Smoke billowed from the source of the explosion, obscuring his vision and filling his nose with a metallic scent. He shook his head and struggled to get to his feet.

    From a distance, the other Adrenomancer stared at him through the smoke.

    "Who the fuck are you supposed to be?" The man muttered to himself as he walked toward Kenzo, brandishing an assault rifle with a grenade launcher attached to the barrel.

    Kuso!

    Kenzo cursed under his breath and hopped back onto his feet. He gripped his sword''s handle tightly as he glared at the approaching Adrenomancer. Meanwhile, Reverb continued his relentless assault on Kasumi while she struggled to block or dodge each incoming blow.

    He needed to hurry before it was too late.

    Kenzo crouched low, his sword raised parallel to the ground, pointed at his opponent. His free hand hovered by the blade''s tip. He closed his eyes and steadied his breathing. His posture resembled that of a coiled spring ready to strike. His feet shifted slightly beneath him as he adjusted his stance.

    ÒôËÙ¤Î˜Œ (Onsoku no Yari).

    Kenzo opened his eyes and thrust his sword forward with a shout. A wave of sonic energy burst out from the end of his katana with an audible screech, piercing through the air toward his target. The soundwaves rippled outward like a shockwave from a detonating bomb¡ªshattering glass and blowing debris away in their wake.

    "Wha¡ª" The Adrenomancer stared wide-eyed as the sonic lance pierced his body. A deafening blast of sound waves tore him apart before he even had a chance to react. Blood sprayed everywhere as his remains lay strewn across the ground. His rifle clattered to the floor, followed by what remained of his torso and legs.

    Kenzo spun around just in time to catch sight of Kasumi adjusting her intact glove, sending out another flurry of nanowires, this time in a wide arc meant to encircle Reverb. He responded by clapping his hands together, creating a sonic barrier that repelled the wires. The impact generated a symphony of sparks, throwing Kasumi back into a nearby building''s wall. Her cry reverberated through the alleyway as her head collided with brick.

    She collapsed onto the ground and rolled limply onto her side.

    "Kasumi!" Kenzo yelled out to her in panic as he ran toward her fallen form. He ignored Reverb completely and sprinted towards where she lay. Once he reached her side, he knelt beside her.

    Kasumi groaned weakly as Kenzo gently shook her shoulder. She groaned again and mumbled something incomprehensible under her breath. Then she passed out. Kenzo quickly checked for any fatal injuries but found none. He sighed in relief.

    He glanced back at Reverb, who remained where he stood¡ªobserving Kenzo and Kasumi silently. If there were any visible signs of fatigue from Reverb''s part...they weren''t readily apparent. The equalizers on his mask''s display continued oscillating steadily.

    "Kenzo... Harmonic Samurai," Reverb remarked softly as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Now that''s a face I didn''t expect to see here." He chuckled dryly. "Guess you haven''t changed one bit. Still doing what you''ve always done. Hmph...whatever happened to laying low?"

    "Fuck off, Reverb," Kenzo spat coldly as he carefully picked up Kasumi with one arm under her shoulders and the other under her knees. "I won''t stop you from dealing with the Shiver facility, but I''m taking her away from this mess."

    Reverb shrugged nonchalantly. "Alright," he said after a momentary pause. "She''s not the reason we''re here anyways. Besides...I guess she isn''t all that bad...even if she''s just another gangster in this shitshow." He cocked his head slightly toward where Kasumi rested limply against Kenzo''s chest. "This little lady was putting up quite the fight when I found her earlier. Almost seemed like a fun challenge until your arrival."

    Kenzo paid him no mind and carried Kasumi in silence. The music blaring from his headphones continued to pump out a steady stream of bass beats in tandem with the rhythmic steps of his stride.

    He made sure to keep a safe distance between himself and any Echo Syndicate stragglers scattered throughout the surrounding area. If any tried to pick a fight¡ªhe''d make short work of them. If they didn''t, then that was fine by him too.

    A few Neon Viper gangsters still stood watch near where he first encountered them. One of them greeted him with surprise while another yelled at him angrily. A third began running towards him with his weapon drawn.

    "What are you doing with Cobra?!" The man shouted as he aimed his gun directly at Kenzo''s face. "Put her down or else!"

    "Your boss lost to ''Reverb''," Kenzo replied coolly as he stared down the barrel of the pistol pointed at him. "We don''t need a war right now." He glanced at Kasumi unconsciously as he spoke. "If you''re smart...you''ll listen to me."

    The gangster hesitated but eventually lowered his gun and holstered it away. His comrades followed suit as they glared suspiciously at Kenzo. Eventually, one of them spoke up after exchanging glances with another. "Fine...just give us the boss. We''ll take care of her."

    Kenzo shook his head. "Not gonna happen. I''m taking her to a good clinic I know. Tell the rest of your guys to retreat and leave this matter behind you. Working for the Mad Chemist won''t end well for anybody."

    "But¡ª" one of them started to protest before cutting themselves off abruptly as Kenzo narrowed his eyes threateningly. The rest nodded and quickly turned around. They scattered into the nearby shadows of the alleyway without another word.

 Chapter 64: Third Wheel

    Fii spotted Kenzo leaning against the wall near a patient''s room, his arms crossed over his chest and his eyes closed. As she approached, she could hear the soft hum of music emanating from his headphones draped loosely around his neck. She wasn''t sure if he noticed her presence as she stopped in front of him, waiting patiently for a response.

    Kenzo cracked an eye open and peered at Fii. "Oh...hey, Fii. How are you holding up?"

    He asked as he straightened his posture and uncrossed his arms. He brought a hand up to his headphones and paused the music playing from them.

    Fii beamed brightly and gave him two thumbs up. "Good as new! Didn''t need Edith''s help this time," she signed cheerfully.

    "Mmn, I heard you had a run-in with some Adrenomancers recently. Glad things worked out," Kenzo replied. A slight smirk tugged at his lips. "Must''ve been quite exciting. I missed all the action."

    She nodded vigorously in response. Then she scrunched her nose and furrowed her brow as if remembering something unpleasant. "Yeah...those Adrenomancer guys were really strong. Fighting five of ''em at the same time was crazy." She glanced away briefly before looking back at him. "If I hadn''t fought you and gotten stronger from it, they probably would''ve been able to kill me."

    She had a lot of time to reflect and think about her fight with those Adrenomancers since that day. There was no doubt about it¡ªshe only survived because she''d encountered Kenzo beforehand. If it weren''t for him pushing her past her limits and causing her power to evolve, she wouldn''t have been able to go toe-to-toe with them. Even so...it wasn''t easy. She didn''t get through it unscathed either...and she still had to run away in the end.

    "Hey now," Kenzo said lightly while ruffling her hair affectionately. "Don''t go giving me that much credit. You''ve had that strength all along."

    He patted her head a few times before pulling away and crossing his arms again. "Still...I''m surprised you didn''t take them all down without breaking a sweat. With your powers, you could''ve wiped them out easily." His tone seemed half joking and half serious.

    Oh, great...not Kenzo too. Virgil had already given her an earful¡ªshe wasn''t prepared for a repeat performance.

    She visibly slumped. "What was I supposed to do? Just kill them?"

    Kenzo arched an eyebrow slightly. "Yeah...but you don''t seem convinced," he observed. He scrutinized her for a moment before sighing softly. "Alright, alright. Tell me why." He unfolded his arms and made a ''go on'' gesture with one hand.

    She ran her fingers through her hair and shook her head slightly as if shaking off unwanted thoughts. "Killing people...it''s just..." She trailed off. Then she sighed loudly and leaned against the wall next to Kenzo. "Why did you want to become a musician?"

    Fii deflected the question. Not cleverly either. But she had to steer this conversation somewhere else¡ªaway from murderous thoughts. Thankfully Kenzo humored her. He wasn''t like Virgil at all. Kenzo gave Fii breathing room. He didn''t bombard her with constant lectures. No lectures. Nope. None. Well...at least not right now anyway. Maybe later? Hopefully not.

    "Hm? Why music?" Kenzo asked as he stroked his chin thoughtfully. His gaze wandered upward to the ceiling while he searched for words. Then he lowered his eyes and gave a small shrug. "I guess...music was my only friend growing up. It stuck by me through thick and thin. Got me through some pretty dark days."

    The smile fell from his lips as his expression darkened. After a brief pause, he shrugged again and looked at Fii directly. "You probably expected something more heartwarming. Sorry to disappoint." His smile returned as if nothing happened.

    Fii glanced over at him curiously. She didn''t expect Kenzo''s reasoning to be so...downbeat. She hadn''t known him for long but judging by how laid back he normally seemed, it was easy to forget he had a serious side too.

    "Anyways, you gotta do what you gotta do to survive in the slums," Kenzo continued matter-of-factly while casually scratching his stubbled chin. "We''re all in survival mode here. The ones who aren''t are the idiots." He flashed her a brief toothy grin before crossing his arms again. "Sometimes we gotta get our hands dirty."

    He gave her a pointed look and added, "But I don''t need to tell you that, do I?"

    Fii winced inwardly. So much for changing topics. Damn.

    "I know, I know..." Fii mumbled, putting both hands in the air in surrender. "It''s just...don''t want people to be scared of me or to hate me because of what I can do with my power." She looked away briefly before gazing at him once more. "I mean, isn''t it kinda scary knowing someone could crush you like an insect if they wanted to?"

    Kenzo chuckled dryly and shook his head slightly. "Kid...that''s not your problem." He patted her shoulder reassuringly and leaned towards her with a smirk. "Don''t worry about people getting scared. I got news for ya¡ªthey already are."

    He paused briefly before adding nonchalantly, "Everyone in the slums is scared of each other in varying degrees. Anyone could be part of a gang, ready to shank you with a knife or shoot you. Anyone could steal from you, cheat you outta your Tinks, or just beat you up ''cause they just feel like it."

    Kenzo pulled back and shrugged loosely. "Every Slumshine has a healthy dose of fear in them ''cause they''ve seen it firsthand. Or they''re a victim of it. But...we deal with it anyway ''cause that''s how the world works. Slums especially."

    His gaze sharpened and he pressed on. "What makes you different is the power. But that only adds a bit more ''oomph'' to the fear that''s already there. They know Supers could fuck shit up way worse than regular people. Even if you haven''t killed or seriously hurt anyone yet, they''re still gonna be afraid ''cause you might."

    He shrugged again as if stating the obvious. "They''re not gonna stop being scared unless something changes in the slums¡ªlike...no gangs or crime at all. Which we all know ain''t happening anytime soon. Maybe ever.

    "Point is, you killing someone won''t scare people any more or less than they already are. People who care enough to listen will understand why you did what you did. Or they won''t. There''s always gonna be someone who thinks you''re wrong either way. Just gotta do what you think is right and live with the consequences. Simple as that."

    He rubbed his chin thoughtfully while tilting his head slightly to one side. "Well...mostly. Life''s more complicated than that, but...it helps to keep things simple and straightforward when you can. Makes decisions easier." His hand dropped to his side and he smirked playfully. "You follow me so far? It''s a lot of information all at once."

    No kidding.

    Fii found herself blinking owlishly at Kenzo. Her mouth hung slightly open in surprise while she processed his words. Wow. That was...a lot.

    It felt nice having someone give advice without throwing criticism or demands. His tone remained lighthearted and easygoing even as he lectured her. Like Virgil''s lectures...except not grumpy. Virgil never sugarcoated anything¡ªbut he didn''t really bother with motivation either.

    Kenzo managed to make sense without making her feel stupid for asking questions. Fii liked that.

    After a moment or two passed without response from Fii, Kenzo cleared his throat pointedly and waved his hand in front of her face. "Earth to Fii...you still with me?"

    She blinked rapidly before giving a slight start and smiling sheepishly. "Oops, sorry." She laughed nervously and scratched behind one ear while averting eye contact. "That...was a lot to take in at once."

    Then she shook her head vigorously as if trying to clear away lingering thoughts. "But thanks though! I think I get it now." She grinned brightly at him and gave a thumbs-up again. "I appreciate your advice! Really." She hesitated briefly before continuing hesitantly, "Uh...didn''t mean to hijack our conversation though...how''ve you been? What''s new with you?"

    Kenzo rubbed the back of his neck while chuckling ruefully. "Mmn, well...I had to help a friend of mine out recently. She got into a bit of trouble by getting involved in something she shouldn''t have. I managed to sort things out but...she''s recovering from it now." His smile faded completely and he sighed heavily as if letting go of an invisible burden.

    Friend?...She?...Wait...did Kenzo have a girlfriend?!

    Fii tried to ignore the strange pang in her chest.

    Ignore. Ignore. Ignore. It''s not like she was jealous or anything. Of course not. She was just surprised...that''s all. Why would she care if he had a girlfriend or not? It''s none of her business anyway. Right? Right. There was no reason for her to feel disappointed...right? She was just curious...like any diehard fan would be. Nothing more...right? She felt herself frowning unconsciously despite telling herself repeatedly to stop.

    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

    Maybe she should ask some questions to find out more...just to satisfy her curiosity. Not because she was jealous or anything...

    "Oh...is she okay?" Fii asked cautiously, raising an eyebrow slightly in concern. Then she forced herself to relax her features again. She didn''t want him thinking that she was annoyed or upset or anything...

    And then Quinn''s face came to mind for some reason. Did...he have a girlfriend too? He never mentioned one before...then again they didn''t talk about that stuff very often. Come to think of it¡ªhow many friends did Quinn have exactly? He seemed popular enough judging by how well he got along with everyone.

    But...she couldn''t remember him mentioning any special someone...or any girlfriends before either...

    The ache in her chest intensified. Weird. Why was her heart beating faster suddenly? Was she getting sick again? Maybe Edith should run some tests after all...

    Kenzo answered without noticing her internal struggle. "She''s in the room right now actually," he said as he glanced over his shoulder at the door behind him. "Edith fixed her up a couple of days after I brought her here so...I''d say yeah. She''ll be okay."

    He turned his gaze back towards Fii and grinned wryly. "Anyways, I was about to head in and check up on her. Wanna come in with me? I''m sure she won''t mind." He motioned for her to follow as he headed towards the door. "It''s probably better than standing around out here chatting all day anyway."

    "Oh...sure!" Fii exclaimed.

    Okay. Mind your manners. Don''t act like a total weirdo. She tried desperately to calm her racing heartbeat while following Kenzo closely into the patient''s room. Once inside, she could see a woman sitting on a bed with her back turned toward them. She had long jet-black hair that fell past her waist and wore a plain hospital gown.

    As the woman turned around, Fii''s eyes widened. No...way...

    She wasn''t expecting to see that person''s face again¡ªespecially not in this clinic.

    "Cobra" Kasumi?!

    Wait...she''s friends with Kenzo?! WAIT...were they secretly dating or something?!

    Fii snapped her head towards Kenzo and blinked rapidly several times. But no words came out of her mouth. She just stood there looking like an idiot while Kenzo walked up to the bed and bent down to give the woman a quick peck on the cheek.

    "Hey, Kasumi," he said casually as if nothing was out of the ordinary. He seemed oblivious to Fii''s stunned expression. "How are you feeling?"

    Kasumi''s response was equally casual as if the kiss hadn''t even registered to her. "Fine," she answered briefly before turning away again without further explanation.

    Kenzo straightened his posture again and chuckled dryly to himself before glancing over his shoulder at Fii. "Ah right, sorry...guess I should introduce you two." He gestured toward Kasumi as he continued speaking. "Fii, meet my friend Kasumi. Kasumi, this is Fii."

    Kasumi spared Fii only a brief glance before looking away again without saying anything else. She seemed disinterested in holding a conversation. Or perhaps she simply didn''t care. It was difficult to tell since her facial expression remained unchanging.

    Fii could only gulp nervously in response to the introduction.

    The last time they''d met had been during a battle against each other. Fii barely won by sheer luck. If Cobra really wanted to kill her, Fii would be dead. Period.

    And now that very same person was in the Aether Clinic. As a patient. This...was kinda awkward¡ªand dangerous. How was she supposed to react?

    "K-Kenzo. Can we, uh, talk for a bit...outside?" Fii stuttered nervously. "Just need to ask you about something. Won''t take long."

    Kenzo shrugged nonchalantly. "Sure thing. Just a sec." He turned toward Kasumi and placed one hand gently on her shoulder. "We''ll be back in a minute," he assured warmly before removing his hand from her and moving toward the door where Fii stood waiting patiently. He beckoned for Fii to follow him outside and then closed the door behind them once they were both through.

    Once they were in the hallway alone together again, he raised an eyebrow curiously at her. "Look...I know what you''re about to say¡ª"

    "You''re dating ''Cobra''?! And you brought her in here?" Fii whispered loudly while gesticulating wildly with her arms. Her voice cracked slightly towards the end. "Do you know how scary she is? She tried to kill me!"

    Kenzo blinked. "Wait, you fought her before? When?"

    "A while ago when me and Virgil took down a drug deal and found out about Shiver. I had to fight her off before she killed me." Fii spoke faster and faster with each passing word until she sounded like she was on the verge of hyperventilating. "She''s super scary. I could''ve been cut to ribbons back then. Does she know I''m the same person who beat her up?! Is she someone who holds a grudge? She might try again if she finds out!"

    Kenzo raised his hands placatingly. "Relax! Calm down. Listen. You gotta breathe."

    Fii inhaled deeply several times until she regained some semblance of control over her breathing. Afterward, she managed to speak without sounding like she was going to pass out at any moment. "Okay. Okay. Okay. I''m fine. Thanks."

    "Yeah...good..." Kenzo sighed heavily before continuing. "Look, Fii. It''s complicated alright? I honestly didn''t know that you two met before. Virgil never told me about it either and Kasumi never mentioned anything about Axion before."

    He ran a hand through his hair and exhaled again. "Anyway...here''s the situation¡ªyou know that the Neon Vipers were working with Salvatore. Kasumi was in charge of protecting the Shiver facility he set up in the slums. Recently, the Echo Syndicate found out about that place too. They attacked it. Kasumi got beat by ''Reverb'' Ray. I managed to get there in time to save her, then brought her here. And...yeah...that''s all there is to it."

    Fii arched an eyebrow skeptically. "And...she''s not going to come after me after she recovers?"

    "I never told her who you are," Kenzo answered straightforwardly.

    She sighed in relief. That was one less problem at least.

    Kenzo rubbed the back of his neck again before continuing, "Also...we kinda sorta have a history together so...uh...let''s just say things aren''t exactly easy between us." He shrugged awkwardly before adding dryly, "If you catch my drift." He tapped one finger against his temple while raising both eyebrows slightly.

    Fii stared blankly at him for a few seconds.

    The part of her that idolized Kenzo cringed internally.

    "Anyways, let''s go back inside, yeah?" He turned around and opened the door to the patient''s room before walking through with Fii right behind him.

    When they entered, Kasumi glanced briefly over at them with her usual passive expression. She remained silent. And still. As if she didn''t care whether they came back or not. Or if she even acknowledged their presence at all. Her posture suggested disinterest despite sitting upright on the bed with her legs crossed neatly underneath herself. Fii wasn''t sure what to make of her behavior. Was this how she always acted when interacting with others outside of...cutting them into pieces?

    "We''re back," Kenzo announced unnecessarily as he walked further into the room towards where Kasumi sat quietly. When he reached her bedside, he placed one hand on her shoulder again gently before continuing, "You''ve been out cold for a couple days now. Feeling okay?"

    Kasumi responded curtly without looking directly at Kenzo. "Fine."

    Fii had no clue what to do. She felt like a third wheel.

    She stood stiffly near the door with her arms folded tightly across her chest and her shoulders hunched inward self-consciously. How does one behave normally around someone who tried to kill them previously? And was apparently dating (?) their crush? Not to mention¡ªthey were super intimidating too...

    After several excruciatingly long minutes of awkward silence punctuated only by occasional murmurs from Kenzo''s side of conversation, Fii could stand the tension no longer.

    She approached Kasumi timidly and gave a tiny wave. "Um...hey." She hesitated slightly before asking hesitantly, "H-How''re you feeling?"

    Kasumi merely stared straight ahead without responding verbally or physically. Her gaze remained fixed upon the wall in front of her while maintaining perfect posture. If she heard Fii speak at all, she certainly didn''t show any sign of acknowledging the greeting.

    Fii licked her dry lips nervously and forced herself to continue talking. "So...uh...yeah...you...look great! Not like you didn''t look good before though." She laughed nervously while scratching the back of her head sheepishly. Then she quickly added hastily, "Not that I was staring or anything..." Her voice trailed off weakly and she glanced around helplessly at nothing in particular as if hoping the ground would swallow her whole. This was awful...absolutely terrible.

    "Thanks," Kasumi spoke monotonously. She still hadn''t bothered making eye contact. Or even turned her head toward Fii''s general direction. But...it was something! Fii took it as progress and seized the opportunity to keep going.

    "Well...um...yeah! Uh...glad you''re doing better! And uh...yeah!" She stopped abruptly as soon as she realized she was babbling aimlessly without actually saying anything meaningful. Great...just...great...she was totally blowing this conversation already. "Yeah..." Fii repeated again quietly under her breath while lowering her gaze to the floor dejectedly. A sigh escaped her lips involuntarily.

    Silence followed afterward. Unbearable silence...which lasted for several agonizing seconds until Kenzo eventually spoke up.

    "Aww c''mon Kasumi," he chided playfully, patting her gently on the shoulder with one hand. "I know you''re livid with the situation, but you can at least be sociable about it."

    Kasumi huffed out a single breath through her nostrils without moving a centimeter otherwise. After a moment, she turned her head sharply to the side so suddenly that Fii jumped slightly at the unexpected motion.

    "I am perfectly social," Kasumi stated coldly before glaring directly into Fii''s eyes with enough intensity to make Fii want to melt into a puddle right then and there. The icy gaze lasted only a second or two before Kasumi abruptly turned her attention back towards Kenzo as if nothing happened.

    It certainly did NOT count as "perfectly social," but Fii wisely decided against pointing that out.

    Kenzo chuckled humorlessly under his breath. "Mhm...sure thing." He gave her a wry smile before removing his hand from her shoulder entirely and placing both hands in his pockets nonchalantly. Then he casually strolled over toward Fii''s side while humming idly under his breath. Once he reached her, he leaned close to whisper conspiratorially behind one hand held near his mouth. "Don''t take it personally," he advised quietly enough that Kasumi wouldn''t overhear him. "She''s been sulking since she woke up."

    Fii gulped audibly as Kenzo pulled away again before continuing to speak. "Anyway...Fii. We''ll catch up later. Gotta help Kasumi with a few things around here." His tone suggested that this conversation was over and they should part ways. And honestly¡ªshe had no problem with that suggestion whatsoever.

    She gladly took the chance to escape while she still could. "Uh...yep! Sounds good!" she agreed hurriedly without wasting another moment standing around awkwardly any longer than necessary.

    But before she could reach for the door handle, Virgil walked in. And judging by his expression¡ªthings weren''t great¡­

 Chapter 65: Trust and Identity

    Virgil entered the room wearing his usual frown. But...he didn''t look pissed...so maybe that was good? Fii wasn''t sure how to read his current mood exactly. His brow furrowed even deeper when he spotted Kasumi sitting on the bed. As soon as their eyes met, Kasumi''s eyes widened with recognition.

    And then...she lunged forward and tried crawling out the window in a blind panic.

    She didn''t get far though. Kenzo managed to grab hold of her leg before she could slip out completely. He grunted as he struggled to pull her back inside without hurting her. "Oi...calm down!" he pleaded while trying to keep his grip on her ankle as she kicked frantically against his hold. "It''s alright! It''s gonna be okay!"

    "Get off me! That''s Backfire! He''s here to kill me!" Kasumi screamed hysterically as she thrashed wildly.

    But Kenzo refused to let go. He wrapped an arm around her waist and dragged her back toward the center of the bed where she lay motionless once more. He kept both hands firmly placed on her shoulders while kneeling beside her so she couldn''t escape again.

    "Easy! Easy now...relax..." he cooed soothingly while brushing aside stray locks of hair sticking onto her face from sweat. "Nobody''s dying today...Right?" He shot a pointed look toward Virgil who hadn''t moved since entering the room.

    Virgil exhaled heavily through his nostrils before nodding once curtly. "Didn''t think the friend you were referring to was ''Cobra''," he stated matter-of-factly while rubbing between his temples in circular motions. "Of all the people to be holed up in the clinic...you just had to bring her. Guess you''ve been in bed with a snake all this time."

    Kenzo scowled slightly but otherwise didn''t respond right away. Instead, he remained focused solely on comforting Kasumi until her breathing slowed into a more controlled pace again. When she calmed down enough, he patted her reassuringly on the head once more before letting go. Then he rose from the bedside slowly and faced Virgil directly across the room. His arms crossed defensively over his chest.

    "Look...I know. I get it. She''s involved with Salvatore and the Shiver drug." He sighed heavily and ran a hand through his hair irritably. "But...I couldn''t just leave her out there to die when ''Reverb'' attacked their facility. If I hadn''t helped, she''d be dead now."

    "And I should care if another scum bites the dust why?" Virgil questioned bluntly while glaring at him intensely with narrowed eyes. His jaw clenched tightly as if grinding his teeth together without realizing it.

    Kasumi remained still throughout the exchange without uttering a single word.

    Fii just stood there frozen stiff watching everything unfold. With Virgil standing in the doorway blocking any escape route¡ªshe didn''t exactly have much choice but to wait silently on the side hoping nobody paid attention to her.

    Which did seem likely considering how intently everyone else seemed to be staring at each other right now. The tension between them made her skin crawl uncomfortably...not because she feared any violence might break out...but because...she didn''t really know what she should expect next...

    This...was so awkward.

    After a brief pause, Kenzo answered slowly as if choosing his words carefully. "Because...even if she''s involved in all sorts of shit...I still consider her a friend. And even though we''re not on the same side...that doesn''t change the fact that I care about her wellbeing. It''s as simple as that."

    Virgil snorted derisively. "Friends? Don''t make me laugh. She''ll stab you in the back the first chance she gets. If you had any idea of who you brought in here...then you''d understand."

    He took several steps forward until he was only an arm''s length away from Kenzo. His posture remained rigid and his expression hardened further into an unreadable mask of indifference. "I don''t know how you two met," he growled lowly with a hint of bitterness tinging his voice. "But trust me...you wouldn''t be so buddy-buddy if you knew anything about her."

    "And you know so much about her?" Kenzo challenged hotly. "Or is this another one of your baseless assumptions?" His stance shifted subtly into something resembling a defensive stance with his feet positioned wider apart and his shoulders squared toward Virgil.

    Fii flinched involuntarily when she saw their stances change. They were about to throw hands...

    Should she do something? Stop them somehow? Say something? Break up the fight maybe? She probably could just hang them in the air using gravikinesis until they both calm down or until Edith kicked them out of the clinic. Yeah...that seemed like a reasonable plan...as long as she didn''t get hit in the process.

    "I know because I''ve dealt with her and her gang a long time ago. When she was closer to Fii''s age, she had already assassinated half a dozen high-ranking members from rival syndicates and city officials alike," Virgil spoke coldly without blinking once while staring straight ahead into Kenzo''s eyes. "She''s a trained killer with zero empathy for others. If she wants to kill you...she won''t hesitate."

    He paused briefly before continuing icily, "And if I were you...I wouldn''t keep associating myself with someone like her either. No matter what excuses you come up with. Because one day...when she gets bored of you...she''ll just end up dumping your corpse somewhere nobody can find. I thought you were smarter than that. Instead, here you are letting your dick do all the thinking."

    Fii cringed internally at his last statement. And judging by the way Kenzo visibly bristled...he clearly didn''t appreciate being called out for having feelings for Kasumi. But he kept quiet otherwise and let Virgil continue his rant without interrupting again.

    It seemed like they were all treading on cracked glass at this point...and there was no telling how far Virgil was willing to push things. The whole situation was becoming more volatile with every passing second...which only made Fii want to sink further into the background even more until it blew over...hopefully peacefully...but if worse came to worst¡ªat least nobody would blame her if she used her powers to defuse the situation.

    For now, all she could do was watch and wait nervously. It felt like sitting in an interrogation room where everybody else involved held all the cards except her. And since she had nothing else productive to contribute, all she could do was observe the ongoing drama unfolding right before her eyes.

    It would''ve been entertaining under different circumstances, but considering how serious everything had gotten...it wasn''t exactly funny anymore...especially given her own history with Cobra...err...Kasumi...wait...what was she supposed to refer to her as?

    "That''s rich coming from you," Kenzo finally responded after taking several deep breaths to calm himself enough not to explode in rage. "How many people have you killed before? How many did you put down when you still worked in the metropolis? I don''t think you get to lecture me about associating with murderers considering who you used to be. You might''ve changed your tune, but your hands aren''t any less bloodied than hers."

    Virgil narrowed his eyes dangerously before responding curtly without hesitation: "I never pretended to be anything other than a ruthless bastard. That''s why I''m trying to tell you that she''s got you wrapped around her finger while acting all nice and sweet. Once she gets bored of you, she''ll break your heart. And maybe even cut you open too. Do us both a favor and drop this act already." He stepped closer until he was centimeters away from Kenzo.

    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    They were practically nose-to-nose with each other by now. Both men stared coldly at one another without speaking further. Fii didn''t know who''d throw the first punch at this rate...and she really didn''t want to find out either.

    She focused on the currents of gravity flowing around them and reached out with her mind to manipulate the fields surrounding their bodies. It was easy enough to lift them off the ground effortlessly without breaking a sweat. It didn''t take much effort at all once she had a clear mental image of what she wanted to do.

    Both men shouted in surprise as they suddenly found themselves suspended in mid-air. Their limbs flailed wildly as they struggled to regain control over their movements.

    Fii then pinned them firmly against the ceiling until they stopped writhing around uselessly. She didn''t use enough force to hurt either one of them, but she made sure they couldn''t escape. Fortunately, fighting Kenzo before gave her a good idea of how much force to apply. Virgil seemed to be around the same strength.

    "Hey. No fighting in the clinic," she stated calmly.

    "You little runt! Put me down!" Virgil protested loudly.

    "Don''t make me come up there," Fii threatened halfheartedly without really meaning it. Her voice cracked slightly as she spoke. It was hard not to sound nervous when threatening two older and stronger men who could probably snap her in half if they tried hard enough...even though she had a distinct advantage over them now...she still didn''t want to take any chances anyway. Not if she could help it anyway.

    Then she glanced toward Kasumi briefly and saw her eyes go even wider than before.

    "You''re...Axion?" she uttered incredulously under her breath.

    Oh...OH SHIT! I''m not in costume!

    The two men fell unceremoniously to the floor in a heap while Fii covered her mouth with both hands in shock. Her face turned bright red when she realized she''d been found out by the very person who almost killed her a while ago. The situation went from awkward to disastrous...and she didn''t know what to do except stare dumbfoundedly at the scene unfolding before her eyes.

    This is bad...so so BAD! I gotta get outta here...but where?

    "Damn it, girl!" Virgil swore loudly while pushing himself off the floor slowly. "Now you gave me a good reason to kill her since you just compromised your identity. If we let her live, she''ll¡ª" he trailed off abruptly when he noticed Kenzo reaching for his sword, which prompted Virgil to reach for his own weapon as well.

    Shit! I fucked up...

    Fii pulled them back to the ceiling before either of them could grab their weapons. Then she proceeded to panic internally while trying desperately to figure out how to salvage this mess. All the while ignoring their furious screams and curses directed at her for being reckless.

    Meanwhile, Kasumi continued staring straight at her with those intense brown eyes that made Fii feel incredibly uncomfortable under the gaze. Fii couldn''t read her expression at all though. She didn''t seem angry or anything like that. More shocked than anything else really. Though maybe it was just wishful thinking on Fii''s part...probably wishing Kasumi hadn''t figured her out this quickly...

    Fii took several deep breaths before attempting to calm herself down again. There was no point in panicking now. She needed to focus on fixing things...even though she wasn''t sure how yet. But she couldn''t afford to lose her head either...not until everything gets sorted out properly. One step at a time...one step at a time...

    Slowly, her thoughts became clearer and she found herself regaining some measure of control over her emotions too. With clarity came confidence...and with confidence came ideas on how best to deal with the current situation at hand.

    She extended her hand and levitated Kasumi towards her gently but firmly. Kasumi yelped in surprise as she flew across the room until they stood face to face with each other. Although Kasumi seemed ready to lash out at any moment, Fii maintained her grip around the woman''s body without wavering. She wouldn''t hurt Kasumi. But if she tried attacking Fii, Fii would respond accordingly.

    "First off," Fii began firmly once Kasumi settled down a bit more. "I don''t plan on letting any harm come to you while you''re a patient here. And second..." She paused briefly for dramatic effect before continuing solemnly: "Please don''t tell anyone I''m Axion."

    Kasumi blinked at her several times before responding slowly with disbelief written all over her face. "You...want me...to keep quiet about you...being the thorn in every gang''s ass in the slums?" Her voice dripped with skepticism and incredulity. It sounded like she might burst out laughing at any given moment.

    But fortunately for Fii''s ego, Kasumi remained mostly serious as she continued speaking: "After what you did...after everything I''ve done...you''re still willing to show mercy?"

    Fii nodded gravely. "I don''t know all the bad things you''ve done other than working with Salvatore to sell the Shiver drug and trying to kill me. But right now, Kenzo is my friend and he trusts you enough to take care of you." She glanced over at Kenzo for a split second before adding, "So for now, I''m trusting him on this."

    Then she looked back into Kasumi''s eyes seriously as she finished, "But if you give me even the slightest hint that I shouldn''t have trusted you...I''ll make sure you won''t live long enough to regret crossing me again. I''m only asking nicely this time because we''re both friends of Kenzo. Don''t even think about trying to settle the score between us or plan some sort of revenge either. I''m not the same person you fought before. You better understand that I''ll never hold back against you again. So if I were you...I''d play nice. Okay?"

    Kasumi stared at her intently before finally sighing heavily and shaking her head slightly. "Fine...fine...whatever you say..." She mumbled quietly under her breath afterward but didn''t protest further after that.

    Fii then levitated Kasumi back to her bed where she gently placed the woman down on her back before releasing the gravitational pull on her completely. Afterward, she let go of Virgil and Kenzo too while taking a step back so they wouldn''t immediately lunge at each other again. She wouldn''t intervene unless absolutely necessary. Otherwise, she had faith in them both to behave like adults. They might have some personal grudges to settle, but they could do that without causing a scene in Edith''s clinic.

    "There. Happy now?" Fii asked rhetorically once everyone returned safely to solid ground again. "You can go back to arguing now. Just please do it outside the clinic," she added as an afterthought while glancing over at the door hopefully.

    "Don''t tell me what to do," Virgil grunted sourly before marching toward the exit without another word. He brushed past Kenzo roughly while glaring daggers at him one last time before disappearing into the hallway outside.

    Kenzo watched him leave before turning his attention towards Fii instead.

    "You okay?" he inquired with a raised brow while leaning against the wall casually with both hands stuffed into his pockets again. His posture relaxed significantly after everything seemed to calm down for now. Even though they weren''t exactly "calm." More like simmering under the surface still...but still...it was good enough for Fii right now.

    She nodded nonchalantly at him before smiling reassuringly in return. "Yup...all good." Her gaze shifted over to Kasumi briefly and she found herself meeting those deep brown eyes again. They held each other''s gazes silently for several long moments until Fii looked away awkwardly.

    Kenzo rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly as he glanced between the two girls uncertainly. "Anyways, thanks for that...sorry for getting you involved in our...disagreement."

    "It''s my fault for letting my identity slip, but I meant what I said earlier. She only gets this pass because she''s your friend and she''s injured," Fii reminded him pointedly without breaking eye contact. If she couldn''t trust Kenzo to keep Kasumi in line, then everything would be pointless anyway. But she really wanted to believe in him. He hasn''t disappointed her yet. "This isn''t easy for me...especially because I don''t trust her at all..."

    He nodded solemnly in understanding. "Yeah...I know. I understand how difficult this situation must be for you..." He trailed off slightly as if debating internally whether or not he should continue speaking. After hesitating briefly, he sighed softly before continuing, "But...if you''re willing to give her another chance...I promise you won''t regret it."

    Fii inhaled sharply through her nose. This is so messed up...why do I feel obligated to help her? This doesn''t make sense...

    Still...she wanted to trust Kenzo. So maybe...just maybe...she could try trusting him now too...even though she didn''t have a single reason to believe otherwise...it still felt right somehow. Somehow...in some weird way...this felt right...and if it wasn''t...well...there''s always room for error on both sides. So she might as well take the plunge here regardless.

    Hopefully she wouldn''t drown in regrets later, because one thing was certain¡ªthat would suck ass.

    She sighed heavily before responding reluctantly: "Alright...alright...fine...we''ll see how things go...but I''m gonna hold you accountable for whatever happens from now on."

    Kenzo flashed a small smile at her before nodding gratefully. "Thanks."

 Chapter 66: Searching for Answers

    Fii approached Virgil''s quarters in the Vigil. She hesitated outside the door, unsure how to proceed. It''d been a couple of days since everything blew up with Kenzo and Kasumi. She knew she should have spoken to Virgil sooner about what happened...but she still didn''t know how to broach the subject. She stood awkwardly outside his quarters and knocked on his door.

    "Um...hey Virgil?" She called through the door.

    "Go away." The words echoed through the thin wooden door. The flat monotone voice didn''t convey a hint of emotion.

    "No." She shot back without missing a beat. If he was going to be rude...she would be blunt. No more tiptoeing around the issue.

    There was a thud and footsteps as Virgil opened his door a crack.

    "What do you want, girl?" He snapped angrily.

    "To talk. Can I come in?" Fii met his anger head on. She wasn''t here to fight.

    He paused before he sighed in frustration.

    "Fine." The door shut and then clicked as he unlocked and swung the door open.

    Inside, the room was sparse. Virgil''s revolver sat disassembled on a cloth on his desk. Cleaning supplies and bullet casings littered the workspace. Other than his pistol, the only other object was his bed, neatly made. Fii wondered when he last slept.

    "Sit." Virgil jerked his head towards the chair tucked under the desk.

    Fii obliged, seating herself carefully. He closed the door behind him and sat on his bed facing her. His elbows rested on his knees as he leaned forwards, waiting for her to speak. Silence hung between them.

    "Look, Virgil," Fii started. "Kenzo and Kasumi...I don''t trust her. But Kenzo does. And he''s my friend, so I trust him. I don''t know anything about her or their past relationship...or whatever the hell they''re doing now...but I''ll trust him until he proves me wrong."

    Virgil laughed mirthlessly. "You trust too easily."

    She bit her lip before answering softly, "Maybe I do...but isn''t that what heroes are supposed to do?"

    His eyes narrowed and he spat out sarcastically, "Heroes? You mean naive kids who think they can save everyone with enough goodwill and self-sacrifice?"

    "Is there something wrong with that?" Her voice rose slightly. She wanted to defend herself...but also keep things from escalating again. If she yelled...this would just turn into another argument¡ªand she didn''t want that, so she kept her tone low but firm. "Isn''t that what we do anyway? Fight for people who need help?"

    He scoffed at her comment. "That''s different. We do what needs to be done because nobody else will. What Kenzo did...it wasn''t heroic." Virgil stood and began pacing across the length of the small room. He ran a hand through his hair tiredly as he paced. "The only reason I let it slide is because he''s a valuable ally. Othwerise, I would have shot the bitch between the eyes the moment I entered the room. She deserves no mercy."

    Fii frowned deeply but remained silent. There was nothing she could say that would change Virgil''s opinion. She knew that much already. And honestly...she didn''t disagree with him. She didn''t like Kasumi one bit¡ªand yet here she was...still defending her because of Kenzo.

    Why was she doing this? Because she idolized Kenzo that much? Because she had looked up to him for so long and she respected him so much that she wouldn''t dare question his motives...even if they seemed questionable to her...because they couldn''t possibly be...right? Right? Or maybe...just maybe...she just really wanted to believe him.

    "If you''re so set on believing Kenzo is right and I''m wrong...then you''re an idiot." He spoke with no trace of malice, only resignation. "I can''t stop you...but if she does betray him or tries anything funny again...and you do nothing...that blood will be on your hands."

    Virgil took a swig from his flask and his eyes closed tightly as he swallowed hard. "Not to mention you did something more idiotic like getting your identity blown in the clinic by a person who has already tried to kill you before. Do you understand how monumentally stupid that was?"

    Fii opened her mouth to protest but closed it when Virgil''s stern gaze bore holes into her. He didn''t want to hear anything she had to say right now. The message was loud and clear. She sat quietly on the chair, listening attentively while fiddling idly with the edge of her tank top.

    He took another gulp of whiskey and slammed the metal container back down on his desk. "Look, kid. You can''t keep doing this. First, it was with Quinn, and now you''re doing this again. At least with him, he wasn''t dangerous. But when a criminal knows your face, you''ll never have any peace. That girl is going to rat you out the minute she gets a chance. Or worse¡ªhunt down everyone you care about and hurt them so they can get to you."

    Fii shivered at the thought. He didn''t have to say that last bit. She understood perfectly well what he meant.

    But in the slums, that kind of threat always hung over everyone''s heads. Whether someone was part of a gang or not, they would have to deal with those types of dangers sooner or later. Gangs that lost territories and power always clung to their grudges. It wasn''t uncommon for gangsters to target friends or families of those who crossed them to get revenge or settle old scores.

    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    It didn''t just apply to gangs¡ªanyone who wanted to hurt someone else could find ways to get the job done. That was life in the slums. No laws meant no punishment for anyone who could get away with it. So to survive, you had to be crafty, strong, or lucky. It''s just how things were.

    Still, there are unwritten codes of conduct that were respected...most of the time. Retaliating against innocents is frowned upon and taboo among those who actually cared. And it wasn''t just because of moral reasons either¡ªit would also make them lose their credibility and risk isolating them even further.

    No one wants that¡ªnot even gangsters. The balance was always kept precariously in check. Some were better than others but the codes were the same.

    Virgil stepped close and knelt beside her chair so they could be face-to-face. She flinched slightly when he laid a heavy hand on her shoulder and squeezed tightly. His intense hazel eyes bore into hers as he spoke clearly, "So now that you got your dumb ass exposed¡ªthere''s nothing stopping her from paying you back the favor."

    "I''m sorry I messed up," she admitted dejectedly. "It wasn''t smart...I panicked a little."

    He grunted, "Yes. It was idiotic." His tone softened though and the tension in the air dissipated some. He let go and stepped back, giving her space again. "I''ve taught you better. You should be able to think clearly enough under pressure. Next time, don''t make rash decisions. Let that thick skull of yours do its job instead."

    He gave her head a hard flick. It stung, but she didn''t complain. This was the most civil he''d been with her lately. Besides, she deserved it.

    She nodded slowly. "Yes sir."

    "Good," Virgil sighed before collapsing back into the bed. His posture sagged heavily and his eyes drooped close. "At least we agree on that."

    "Uh...can I ask something else though?" Fii ventured cautiously.

    Virgil opened an eye and groaned in exasperation. "What now?"

    "I wanted to talk about those Adrenomancers. I know I''ll probably end up fighting them again sometime soon so...can you tell me more about them?"

    The other eye popped open and he sat straight up.

    "Didn''t I already explain the basics to you before? How much more do you want to know?"

    Fii shrugged sheepishly. "A lot more I guess. Like...how come some of them are different? One of the ones I fought was super fast. Another one was stronger and tougher than the rest, and I''m sure there are other types too."

    Virgil exhaled noisily through his nostrils. "Those are the variants. As far as I know, Salvatore''s drug cocktail could sometimes result in a mixture that produces something more along the lines of a Super. Different bodily systems get modified so the strength or speed comes easier than for other candidates. The ones with enhanced speed are called Hyperions, and the ones with higher strength and endurance are known as Titans."

    "So basically...they''re better versions of the regular Adrenomancers?"

    "Pretty much." He paused briefly to take a swig of whiskey before continuing in a tired voice, "But that''s all they are. They still don''t compare to Metahumans who have the strength to throw cars around or move faster sound. At best, they might be able to hold their own against someone who''s not as experienced¡ªlike you."

    "I fought one that used electrified whips," Fii added. "And another one used holograms."

    He grunted in acknowledgment. "Yeah, there are plenty of different weapons too. Most use firearms for quick kills. But others like to get up close and personal. Regardless of how they fight, you should be able to deal with them easily if you put your mind to it and NOT hold back." He shot her a pointed look to emphasize his point.

    "Yes sir," she responded immediately. "No more holding back."

    "Good...now run along...I need a nap," he mumbled drowsily while lying back on the mattress again.

    She watched him close his eyes and drift off quickly into slumber. His flask hung limply in one hand.

    Time to go. She slipped out quietly and left him alone to sleep.

    Once outside the Vigil, Fii exhaled loudly before making her way back to the Aether Clinic. Things weren''t going to return to normal anytime soon. And there was no telling when she''d find herself tangled up in another mess again.

    <hr>

    Edith tapped a vial into her analyzer and set the machine humming. A stream of data began popping onto her monitor screen. After checking several values, she frowned slightly but didn''t seem surprised.

    Helix''s voice sounded from her computer speakers.

    [Based on the chemical composition of the Adrenomancer drug, it appears to contain a complex mixture of various synthetic stimulants and neurotransmitters. These include amphetamines, ephedrine, and norepinephrine¡ªwhich account for the increase in alertness and energy. There are also trace amounts of dopamine and serotonin present¡ªwhich likely enhance the user''s sense of pleasure and reward while under the influence.]

    The information flashed across the screen faster than Edith could absorb it all. But Helix was still reciting its analysis, so she had time to catch up before asking any questions.

    [In addition, there are also traces of exotic elements found in rare minerals that I believe were introduced during the refining process. However, I am unable to ascertain what these substances are currently due to insufficient data.] The AI concluded before waiting patiently for her response.

    Edith hummed thoughtfully as she pondered over this new discovery. While not unexpected given what she''d already gathered earlier from analyzing Shiver, it did confirm a few things she suspected about the two drug''s similarities.

    "I think I have a guess what those exotic elements are...or at least what their purpose may be," she mused aloud while squinting closely at the screen. "Heavy isotopes that serve as catalysts and binding agents that instill rapid biological changes within the host."

    Helix chimed in affirmatively, <It would seem so based on available evidence. However, further analysis is required to substantiate such claims.>

    "That''ll be your job then," she stated matter-of-factly as she began typing rapidly on her keyboard. "I want you to run more tests on these compounds and compile a comprehensive report for me with all possible results from different variations." She paused briefly before continuing, "While you''re at it...run another check on Fii''s DNA sample too. Let me know if anything unusual pops out from your analysis."

    [Understood.]

    With that settled, Edith sat back in her chair and began rereading everything once again from start to finish. She couldn''t afford to miss anything important. This data had to be absolutely accurate. So far things seemed promising...but there remained a lingering doubt gnawing away at her gut.

    This could all be for naught. Salvatore''s Adrenomancer formula might very well not be the key to increasing the efficacy of her serum. There were too many variables involved and no way to tell whether or not one variable was causing the other effects. That meant they needed more information¡ªmore data.

    And unfortunately...that wasn''t something she could generate easily on her own anymore.

 Chapter 67: Prelude to Invasion

    Quinn''s tools clicked and clinked in the cold night air as he tinkered away on a piece of malfunctioning equipment. It was a routine job, one he''d done dozens of times before. But one thing he had never really gotten used to while working on the zip lines was the height.

    Perched on the side of a skyscraper several hundred meters off the ground, his feet dangled precariously off the ledge. It was a thrilling sensation¡ªone that always left him on the verge of exhilaration and terror simultaneously.

    Slumshines called this network of zip lines that crisscrossed through the major hubs of the slums "The Wires". They were installed long ago as part of an old system for moving goods from place to place efficiently. Zippers were freelance aerialists who patrolled the wires and hauled people or goods using cargo-slings and winches. Occasionally a malfunctioning line required repair.

    That''s when Quinn came in. He enjoyed his work¡ªit had the desired effect of making him forget all his troubles for a bit. And being up high like this tended to clear his head.

    He had his climbing harness attached to the zip line cable nearby, and a rope around his waist for added security. But the wind whipped against his body as he worked, sending chills down his spine. So he moved carefully and methodically, double-checking every nut and bolt before proceeding to the next.

    Can''t be too careful.

    Besides, the longer he took, the more time he could spend gazing at the beautiful view.

    The metropolis twinkled in the distance beyond The Wall. The massive barrier separating the slums from the metropolis rose from the ground like a dark monolith, silhouetted against the vibrant cityscape behind. And above, stars blazed in the deep indigo sky.

    Although most of the slums were shrouded in darkness, the Neon Night Market and a few other places still shone brightly even late into the night. Even if their glow couldn''t illuminate the gloom beyond the main thoroughfares, these clusters of light provided comfort for the residents living nearby.

    Beyond the outskirts of the slums, the Outlands stretched out for kilometers in all directions. Its barren surface blended seamlessly into the horizon, fading into black nothingness.

    Quinn often wished he could explore the Outlands someday. Unfortunately, it was simply too dangerous for him to venture that far out on his own or in small groups. Even the gangs who claimed territory near the outskirts often stuck close to the edges for safety''s sake. Only large gangs with formidable firepower and protection could ever dream of setting up outposts deep in the Outlands. The dangers and threats were too numerous and widespread for anything smaller.

    Bandits. Outlaws. And worse¡ªthe anomalies.

    Everyone in the slums learned from a young age not to mess around out there. Nothing good ever came out of exploring beyond the boundary of the slums.

    Refugees who had braved the perilous journey through the wastes always brought harrowing tales of monsters and mutant abominations prowling the earth¡ªcreatures far more terrifying than anything found within the cramped confines of the slums. They described nightmares born of madness¡ªmonstrosities capable of slaughtering entire platoons of well-armed soldiers with ease.

    Even a powerful Super would struggle out there. Their abilities had their limits after all.

    The safest way to travel to other cities was by air. Taking the old highways and roads was just asking to die horribly. Only heavily-armed convoys from the metropolis would make such long journeys on land. Everyone else flew directly above the danger zone.

    A gust of wind whistled through his hair and snapped him back to reality. Quinn realized he''d been spacing out while staring wistfully at the horizon. Shaking his head ruefully, he continued fixing the malfunctioning panel. The sooner he finished his repairs, the sooner he could get back on the ground safely.

    "You''re messing it up, Quinn," Luxy chided, her voice a playful tilt. She was a streak of color against the drab palette of concrete and metal surrounding her. She stood confidently on a parallel cable holding her rigging suspended between two buildings. Her limbs dangled freely beneath her. Her pale blonde hair shone under the neon lights reflecting from the glass buildings nearby. The orange jumpsuit she wore almost glowed with color. And the wind pushed against her lithe form.

    Luxy, with her quick smiles and quicker hands, was the undisputed queen of The Wires, the girl with nerves of steel. She and the Zippers.

    Quinn shot her a grin, not looking up from his work. "And you¡¯re distracting me, which is why it¡¯s messed up."

    A chorus of laughter erupted from the small group gathered around. They were an odd assortment of characters, bound by their shared domicile in the heights and their membership in the Zippers. Among them was Mica, whose knack for scavenging tech made him a valuable ally; Taro, whose silent presence was as comforting as it was mysterious; and of course, Luxy, whose antics kept them all on their toes.

    "Yeah, yeah," Luxy conceded cheerfully, "but seriously though...what''s taking so long? Just get on with it."

    "Almost there," Quinn insisted, reaching over with a tool to tighten a loose bolt. "Gotta make sure everything''s nice and sturdy before sending people and packages whizzing along."

    "Wow," Mica spoke up suddenly, eyes widening in surprise. "This must be the first time anyone''s seen Quinn turn down a pretty girl."

    Taro grunted and muttered something indistinct.

    "Sorry?" Mica cocked his head questioningly.

    Taro gave an annoyed huff. "Heard from the echoes in the alley that Quinn''s got a special lady friend he''s been hanging around with." He shrugged noncommittally and went back to work on the lines he was working on.

    Mica arched a brow, his expression incredulous. "For real? Quinn?" He looked Quinn up and down skeptically. "Not bad."

    Luxy laughed, leaning forward eagerly. "Do tell."

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    "Do not," Quinn protested irritably.

    "Oh, please do," Luxy pressed with a mischievous smile.

    "Yeah!" Mica piped up, nudging him. "I''ve always wanted to know if you''ve ever had any luck with the ladies."

    These guys...Quinn shook his head fondly. Always the clowns.

    "Nothing to say," he answered casually. "We''re friends."

    "Riiight..." Luxy said dryly, obviously skeptical.

    "Don''t push," Quinn warned seriously.

    Luxy rolled her eyes and put up her hands in mock surrender. "Whatever you say, Quinn. I mean...it''s not like anyone here has been speculating about you for ages or anything."

    Mica snickered, "Like I''d be interested in Quinn. There''s nothing worth speculating about there."

    "Thanks," Quinn deadpanned.

    Their banter was cut short by a distant rumble, a sound unfamiliar and out of place. Quinn¡¯s gaze snapped toward the dark horizon, where dust clouds began to rise in the outskirts of the slums. He squinted, trying to make out the shapes moving at the base of the billowing dust.

    "What¡¯s that?" Luxy asked, her usual bravado replaced by a thread of concern. She followed his gaze, her playful demeanor fading.

    The others turned to face the same direction.

    "Looks like a caravan," Taro remarked as his keen eyes peered through the night.

    "Headed here?" Luxy questioned worriedly. "Now?"

    Quinn wasn¡¯t convinced. He wiped his hands on his jumpsuit, a habit when he was deep in thought. He had seen many caravans over the years since arriving in the slums. Almost all of them arrived from the opposite direction. And none had ever traveled this late before. Something didn¡¯t feel right. "Don''t know."

    Luxy, ever the daredevil, swung herself onto a nearby zip line. ¡°I¡¯ll take a look,¡± she announced.

    Quinn frowned in disapproval. Luxy tended to act first and ask questions later. But his warnings died on his lips.

    With a whoop, she pushed off her platform and became a streak of light zipping between the buildings.

    "Luxy, wait!" Quinn shouted after her. "Get back here!"

    Too late. Her bright blond hair faded into the darkness ahead.

    Quinn cursed under his breath.

    "Let''s go after her." He set aside his tools and harnessed himself to the cable he was working on.

    "Dumbass," Mica muttered. But despite his words, the guy checked his own gear and leaped from his own perch without a moment''s hesitation.

    Taro watched both men descend before joining them.

    Soon, three figures streaked through the skyline as they followed after their comrade. Quinn tried to stay focused on his trajectory but his thoughts kept wandering back to the caravan. What kind of caravan would come all the way to the slums this late?

    Perhaps a desperate band of survivors fleeing danger. But what caused the rumble earlier? No matter what, something didn''t quite add up.

    They eventually reached the rooftop where Luxy stopped and crouched low on a corner overlooking the street below. Taro and Mica joined her on opposite ends. Quinn touched down last and glanced over the edge. The caravan came into view below.

    Far off, at the very edge of his vision, he saw them¡ªfigures moving in a calculated, deliberate manner, their movements too synchronized for the usual ruffians in the slums or bands of refugees. Even from this distance, Quinn could see the glint of metal and the sleek lines of vehicles that had no place in the slums'' cluttered landscape.

    "Hey, Lux," Quinn murmured, nodding toward the advancing figures. "You see that?"

    Luxy unclasped her prized night vision binoculars from her belt and held them to her eyes. After a beat, she shrank back, eyes wide and a hand pressed over her mouth. "That''s an APC! Military!" she gasped, passing binoculars to Mica. "Holy shit..."

    Mica quickly scanned the view through the lenses and stiffened. "I don''t see any logos on them, though. Whoever they are, they''re not from the usual private security or army units."

    "Lemme see." Quinn grabbed the binoculars and raised them to his eyes. It only took him a split second to spot the difference between these vehicles and the military''s armada. As Mica had pointed out, no military logos decorated these APCs or Humvees. They could have been stolen or salvaged. Either way, something seemed off about these strangers. "They''re not legitimate, at least."

    Taro finally spoke, his voice low. "Trouble always finds its way here, but this feels bigger."

    "We should get back," Luxy said, her usual nonchalance replaced with unease.

    Taro didn''t need to be told twice. He leapt from the building and coasted away into the night.

    "I''ll try and get in touch with The Big Four. At least the Iron Legion is gonna wanna know about this!" Luxy shouted urgently before darting to the opposite edge of the building and sailing to her escape route.

    Mica gave Quinn an uneasy glance. "Let''s not stick around, Quinn," he said urgently. Then he dove from his perch and arced into the sky.

    Quinn lingered at the edge for a moment. His instincts told him to keep watch a little longer. Maybe these weren''t such a big deal. Maybe Luxy was overreacting.

    He lingered at his vantage point to observe the vehicles approaching closer and closer. They traveled slowly and steadily through the outskirts and gradually drew closer.

    Another rumble drew his attention to a section of dilapidated buildings where he knew a gang had claimed as their territory.

    Cracks of gunfire and shouts broke the night''s stillness. Several gangsters ran into view from alleys and doors, shooting and yelling at an APC that had driven down the narrow street. Rounds clanked off the APC''s hull harmlessly as the vehicle barreled through. Several men jumped onto the roof and tried to kick and punch at the reinforced glass but the hardened plexi didn''t yield.

    From the back of the APC emerged figures in helmets and flak jackets armed with rifles. They aimed and fired methodically. Three of the attackers fell away instantly, crimson stains blooming across their shirts. Two more charged at the soldiers but the automatic gunfire forced them to dive away behind cover.

    The convoy rolled on steadily. Gunfire lit the night from dozens of gun battles throughout the area. Most seemed to be targeted toward the APCs while a few small teams fought with other outlying targets.

    It occurred to Quinn then. Are they attacking the gangs? Why? Why would anyone attack the slums like this?

    One of the soldiers that had engaged the charging gangsters stopped long enough for Quinn to note the bizarre rig of tubes and contraptions fixed around his armor. He walked towards the enemy gangster who had thrown his guns down and pleaded for his life. The soldier knelt, grasping the gangster''s head in his hands before twisting viciously. The lifeless corpse of the gangster dropped limply to the pavement. The soldier moved on toward the next closest target.

    Oh shit.

    Even though this was Quinn''s first time seeing them, he knew from Virgil''s descriptions exactly what some of them were¡ªAdrenomancers.

    From his count, there were six APCs, ten Humvees, and squadrons of foot soldiers entering the slums. Those were enough troops to give The Big Four a run for their money.

    "They¡¯re not just passing through," he muttered quietly, the realization settling heavy in his gut. "They''re coming for something...or someone."

    Oh no...are they coming after Fii?

    They were closing in on Quinn''s position fast and he had to get out. Right now.

    Quinn tore his gaze from the advancing soldiers and scrambled to his harness. The winch controls were integrated into the chest plate, so all he had to do was yank on the main lever. The motor hummed as it began pulling him away from danger.

    He needed to let Fii and Virgil know right away.

 Chapter 68: All According to Plan

    A sudden frenzied rapping at her window woke Fii from her slumber. Groggy and disoriented, she slid the glass pane open, letting in a rush of night air. Quinn stood below in the street, face red and glistening from the exertion.

    "What the hell..." Fii croaked tiredly. She rubbed her eyes to clear them. "Quinn?"

    He waved impatiently. "I have something to tell you! Come out." He shot an uneasy look toward the street, but his urgency didn''t waver. "This is serious."

    Fii yawned and stretched languidly. "Okay, okay."

    She climbed down and stood in front of him.

    "What''s with the drama?" she inquired sleepily.

    "Trouble." Quinn paused a beat, catching his breath before continuing. "Just went out to do maintenance and fixed a broken zip line. About twenty minutes ago." Another pause as he caught his breath and ran a hand through his damp hair. "Spotted a small convoy approaching the slums¡ªabout a hundred guys or so. Military-type with vehicles. No markings or any identifying insignia."

    Fii raised a brow questioningly. "So? They''re probably just heading to the metropolis. What''s so strange about that?"

    He shook his head adamantly. "No. They started picking fights with some gangs near the border. Ran their vehicles into groups and started gunning them down. Most everyone ran scared." Quinn paused again and his expression turned grim. "I...saw some Adrenomancers in their group."

    Fii inhaled sharply. Her sleepiness vanished immediately. "Wait¡ªwhat?! You saw ''em? Are you sure?"

    "Yeah." His eyes grew distant at the memory. "I''m sure. From what Virgil told me, I recognized their gear right away. Harnesses with tubes and stuff."

    Her mind raced as she digested this news. More Adrenomancers? And they''re with a hundred soldiers?

    "How many of ''em did you see?" Fii asked, her stomach sinking as he responded.

    "At least a dozen, but that''s just from one of the squads I saw There''s probably more...a lot more, mixed in with probably mercs."

    Fii shivered despite the heat.

    That many? To go after something in the slums? Were they still after her? No way...right? Maybe that Mad Chemist guy had a bone to pick with one of the bigger gangs. Still...this was getting a little over the top. And this was the slums they were talking about¡ªthe last place someone would waste a ton of money and resources attacking.

    "Is that why you came straight here?" she asked quietly.

    "Yeah, I had a bad feeling they might be looking for you or Virgil."

    "Crap...you''re probably right." Fii squeezed her eyes shut. She felt like a bullet was lodged somewhere in her body. The last thing she needed was more trouble from outside. Why the hell can''t I just catch a break? "Okay. Let''s go let Virgil know."

    <hr>

    A hand grasped his shoulder and gently shook him awake.

    Virgil awoke with a start and instinctively grabbed for his revolver. He swept it upward and had it leveled at his attacker before fully opening his eyes.

    Fii gasped and leaped back with her hands raised. "Woah, relax! It''s me!"

    "Fii..." Virgil blinked away the sleep from his eyes. "What do you want?"

    He sat up and put his gun aside. Another figure stood behind her¡ªQuinn.

    What the hell were these two doing sneaking into his room at this godforsaken hour? They''d better have a good reason. Otherwise they''d be tasting his fists. He cast a wary glance toward them, giving each of them a good once-over. They seemed alert and a tad spooked. Fii''s expression seemed unusually tense. It couldn''t be good news.

    "What happened?" Virgil asked gruffly. He wished he could grab a drink or a smoke. Goddammit.

    "Quinn''s spotted a bunch of Adrenomancers entering the slums." She took a deep breath before adding quietly. "Like...a LOT more."

    "Saw ''em about an hour ago. There were six APCs and ten Humvees rolling in from the Badlands," Quinn added. "Plus squads on foot. I don''t know if they were all Adrenomancers, but the dozen I saw had those harnesses on."

    Virgil could only stare incredulously as the words sunk in. Did he hear that right? Were these two trying to prank him right now?

    No. They wouldn''t be that stupid to pull a stunt like that. Which meant...shit.

    He pinched the bridge of his nose, groaning loudly. This was some news to wake up to.

    "Where are they now?" Virgil demanded. He hurriedly buckled his revolvers around his thighs and tied his holster.

    Quinn spoke up. "Southeast end. Moving north. Seems like they''re focused on the gangs near the outskirts. No way they''re just passing through. They''re here for a reason."

    "Isn''t the Ironclad Legion''s turf near there?" Fii mused out loud. "Maybe they''re going to try and settle a score with ''Anvil'' Anderson''s gang?"

    Salvatore didn''t settle scores that way. Or at least, he wouldn''t have had his group be seen going into battle this openly without a large sum of money exchanged. Aside from trying to establish a facility for his Shiver operations, and placing a bounty on Fii''s capture, what the hell else would Salvatore be after?

    He must have lost his mind or gotten desperate if he had ordered his Adrenomancers to conduct a raid in the slums. He was practically throwing away his resources. Whatever he was doing had to be critical enough for him to take such a gamble. Something''s not adding up.

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    But the bigger picture didn''t matter much to him right now. He needed to consider immediate solutions. They needed to get a handle on the situation. Now.

    "Virgil?" Fii peered at him in concern.

    "I''m thinking." Virgil breathed deeply and cracked his neck. He began mentally calculating their options as he finished gearing up. "For starters, Fii...suit up and get ready to head out. Quinn, get a hold of Kenzo and tell him what''s going on. After that, get some ClipRunners to spread the word to the other gangs. Got that? Now git!"

    "Got it!" Quinn darted from the room.

    "Right!" Fii dashed out right behind him.

    "Sonofabitch," Virgil mumbled under his breath.

    The metropolis government wouldn''t care enough to get involved, but if the collateral damage started piling up, Supers might start pouring out to get a slice of the action¡ªand that would cause even more of a mess.

    <hr>

    Fii finished donning her cyber-helmet and performed a quick systems check. Her vitals readout returned all-normal and the commlink''s indicator displayed a solid green. Her skates showed a full charge.

    A knock on her door startled her. Edith opened the door a second later, sporting her typical lab coat and eyeglasses. For someone in the middle of the night, she didn''t appear groggy in the least.

    "Going out?" Edith asked. "You didn''t mention anything about doing a patrol tonight. Has something happened?"

    Fii explained the situation to the best of her abilities. Her explanation, though, only deepened Edith''s frown.

    "Edith?"

    She seemed deep in thought as if turning the information around in her head. Something was bothering her.

    "Edith?" Fii prompted again. "Did you get all that?"

    "Huh? Yeah, I heard you." She blinked, looking distracted. "I guess I''ll head back to my office and get on the comms. I''ll deploy my drones to track their movements. You talked to Virgil already, right?"

    Fii nodded. "He told me to get ready. I''m about to head out now."

    Edith nodded. She took a breath before giving Fii a serious look.

    "Take care of yourself out there. Remember, don''t hold back when fighting those Adrenomancers." She gave a faint smile. "Show ''em who''s boss. And...stay safe."

    Fii gave a thumbs-up in response. "Yes, ma''am!"

    She thought Edith would leave and return to her lab. Instead, she hesitated as if she wanted to add more. Finally, she exhaled deeply and patted Fii''s shoulders. With a final nod and smile, she left the room.

    Fii found it strange. It wasn''t like Edith to worry like that. Why the weird behavior? Weird...

    She shook her head to clear her thoughts and exited her room. Time to focus.

    As she made her way back to the Vigil, she spotted Virgil coming her way.

    He gave her an appraising look. "You ready?"

    "Yup. Suit''s on and helmet''s working. Commlink''s showing an okay status. Edith said she''s gonna send drones out. Ready whenever you are."

    Virgil''s expression shifted as he grimaced. He took a long drag from his cigarette, exhaled the smoke slowly, and flicked the butt away. He probably needed to take his mind off something. "Let''s roll."

    <hr>

    Edith trudged back to her lab and sank onto her chair. She slumped back, taking a few steadying breaths. The entire ordeal had rattled her nerves.

    She didn''t think her bait would have worked. It was a long shot at best. But based on the scale and effort of this assault, it was more likely than not that Salvatore intended to find and capture her to pry the secrets of her research from her. She''d inadvertently lured a great big nest of hornets.

    Inadvertently? No. I wanted this. It was always the plan to tip his hand.

    She smiled grimly to herself. The price for her actions was steep. And this wasn''t over yet. She wasn''t out of danger. There was no guarantee he didn''t send all this to kill her. If he was as smart and ambitious as she guessed he was, he would want to keep her alive to help him pursue his agenda.

    The main variables were Fii and Virgil. Fii should be powerful enough to rescue her safely, but Virgil doesn''t know the whole truth about Fii''s origin as a metahuman. How would he react if the secret came to light? And how would she tell him? All Edith knew for sure was that a single misstep could easily mean death. And not just hers.

    However, the chance to acquire all of Salvatore''s research and blueprint on his Adrenomancer creation process was too great. If Edith could obtain that, it would help make her one step closer to perfecting her own methods. An opportunity like this might not come around for a very long time.

    Maybe. Maybe not. I made a plan to see this through. I will continue to follow through with it.

    Edith began typing on her terminal and uploaded a set of commands to a cloud server. She instructed a series of drones to power themselves on and perform a search grid in the slums. Given the size and scope of this operation, Edith had plenty of drones to spare. At the end of the day, it was a fraction of her investment and what was needed.

    "Dr. Weiss," Helix''s voice echoed inside the lab.

    "What is it, Helix?" She swiped the screen on her desk monitor to view the incoming data from the drones. A map overlay of the slums appeared with red dots mapping the estimated movement and routes of the intruding forces.

    "I must remind you one last time that this plan is unwise and highly dangerous," Helix cautioned.

    "Your opinion is duly noted and rejected," Edith snapped. "This plan was carefully considered. I understand the risk, but the benefits greatly outweigh the dangers."

    "Yes," Helix remarked. "Your intentions are certainly beneficial to your project, but not beneficial toward yourself."

    Edith let out a quiet snort. "Benefits? And this doesn''t benefit me?"

    "Gaining Salvatore''s research would accelerate your own timeline. However, he may not have the complete procedure," Helix reminded. "In any case, Salvatore''s likely intentions include torture and brainwashing in order to gain control over your person."

    "Thanks for reminding me again."

    "In this eventuality, what of your test subject?"

    "She''s ready," Edith said confidently. "If all goes well, she will retrieve me and defeat them all."

    Helix''s tone shifted. "Are you truly confident in her capability and resolve?"

    "You''re overthinking this."

    "If I were human, would you attribute this to mere bias or objective analysis?"

    She pondered the question for a moment. Helix, while a clever intelligence, rarely deviated from cold logic. Any show of emotional capability would certainly come at great cost. Its creation and training required an exorbitant amount of funding and time. To waste this effort by merely arguing emotions would have been unthinkable.

    Perhaps Edith might have reconsidered a better alternative had there been any other choice. But that was a hypothetical, an absurd notion that she rejected the moment she had formulated her plan. She would never change her mind. No amount of objectivity would convince her otherwise.

    "Human error isn''t what will get us killed tonight."

    "Regardless¡ª"

    Edith sighed. "Yes. I believe in her," she said quietly.

    The irony in her answer wasn''t lost on her. Edith was far from being the most ideal instructor. Fii had come a long way since they had begun working together, but her talents were still far from tapped. And she was far from ready.

    Her achievements so far were beyond Edith''s wildest expectations. Still, could a little over half a year of experience and training be enough for Fii to tackle this disaster on her own? There was no guarantee. Hell, nothing about her current position guaranteed success¡ªeven with Virgil''s help.

    "Very well." Helix''s words carried finality to them. "What are your orders?"

    Edith cast her reservations and misgivings aside. She inhaled a long, slow breath before answering. "Let''s do everything we can on our end to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible." She gave a grim chuckle. "Here''s hoping she can hold her own out there."

 Chapter 69: Gloves Are Off

    Through her cyber-helmet''s optical sensors, Fii gazed upon the surreal spectacle in the distance. The sound of gunfire and shouts pierced the air, echoing through the dilapidated streets. Streams of thick black smoke curled into the dark sky and clouds of dust hung above the burning rubble.

    Red and orange flashes from gun muzzles strobed against the buildings, occasionally silhouetting a figure ducking or firing from cover. In the distance, the engines of armored vehicles whined as they navigated the terrain. The violent chaos that enveloped the streets made her blood run cold.

    And she was about to walk straight into it.

    Unbelievable. This can''t be real. This can''t be happening.

    Her legs felt unsteady beneath her, and her heart thudded hard and fast. But she had no time to let her fears paralyze her. She had to push forward and hope for the best.

    "Stay sharp!" Virgil barked from beside her. His pace quickened. He darted ahead and disappeared behind a corner. Fii picked up her own pace to keep up with him. He wouldn''t wait for her. That wasn''t the kind of man he was.

    After another half block, he took a right and brought her along a deserted backstreet. Judging by their bearings, Fii figured they were close to the outer reaches of the Ironclad Legion''s turf.

    The staccato gunfire drew nearer by the second.

    "Virgil..." She adjusted the audio sensitivity in her helmet to better isolate his voice.

    "Save your breath. We''re almost there." Virgil grabbed the pipe rail lining the steps in front of her and hurled himself forward with a strong push. The motions and execution were textbook. Fii mimicked his technique and sprang forward in pursuit.

    Soon, they emerged on the street''s far end, and Fii glimpsed the trail of destruction before them. A pair of upturned trucks rested on their sides, blocking the path. Debris littered the street along with charred bodies. Stray bullets buzzed around the wreckage. A thin plume of smoke rose from a crackling blaze, the source obscured behind the crates and barriers erected ahead.

    The inhabitants of the area scattered like roaches from a sudden light. Dozens of people darted and wove through the debris in an effort to get as far away from the fighting as possible. Others scrambled for whatever meager cover they could find.

    Not everyone made it. One man was too slow to rise when the gunfire had ceased and crumpled lifelessly. Two people hiding behind a wall glanced around the side of their barrier to snatch a better look. Bullets laced the wood and buried themselves into their skulls.

    No!

    "We have to save them!" Fii surged past Virgil, using her gravikinesis and rollerskates to quickly weave around obstacles. She left him behind as she worked her way closer toward the active combat zone. She couldn''t let more innocent people die.

    Virgil yelled at her from somewhere behind. She wasn''t listening.

    Before long, she approached a rampaging Humvee rolling up the street and spraying the area indiscriminately with gunfire. People screamed and scrambled out of the way. Those who fell under the machine''s path didn''t have enough time to cry out before being run over.

    The sight threw Fii into a frenzy. With a scream of anger, she planted both feet against the pavement and unleashed her powers. An invisible wave rippled outward and struck the vehicle. It launched upwards as if a ramp had jutted beneath its undercarriage. The driver ejected through the top windshield, along with his partner riding shotgun. The vehicle kept arching its climb, eventually flipping onto its top with an explosive crash.

    Screaming, the gunmen fell from the sky. Fii watched in detached silence as she increased their weight, letting gravity bring them down hard. She crushed them beneath a column of force, splattering the concrete with red. Her stomach churned with disgust and horror, but the urgency of the situation prevented her from vomiting.

    The people who recognized her rushed past her with cries of gratitude and thanks. To her horror, not all of them were unhurt.

    A woman cradling her son hobbled past her. Most of her son''s head had been blown away. Blood soaked their clothes and shoes. Other children trailed behind them.

    Shouts and cries drew her attention to another cluster. She turned to discover the remains of a family huddled behind the safety of a brick wall. All four were covered with wounds and injuries. All were moaning or screaming with pain.

    One kid yanked her hair out from underneath a car tire. Three men strained to lift a jagged slab of concrete from a pile of corpses. A girl collapsed into the arms of her mother, blood oozing from her crushed legs.

    Several called for help, many clutched their wounded and dead, and all seemed to gravitate around Fii.

    So many voices filled the air in a cacophony. It overwhelmed her and drew tears from her eyes. She could barely listen to one without another one seizing her attention. Panic threatened to engulf her mind. Her trembling legs wanted to give out beneath her. Her fists clenched until they went numb.

    Virgil finally arrived and shuffled beside her. He knelt beside her and placed a hand on her shoulder. She recoiled.

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    "Breathe." His calm, deep voice cut through her daze.

    She exhaled, unable to produce any words. What could she say?

    "Focus on getting people out. Anyone you can. If you spot any Adrenomancers, deal with them quickly then move on. Start small and work your way from there."

    "Got it," she answered hoarsely.

    The fact that she''d acknowledged his command comforted her somewhat. Virgil seemed to sense this and gave a curt nod before running into the fray. She watched him leave before gathering her nerves and setting to work.

    Moving among the stranded and wounded people, she focused on moving them from the safety of their barricade and evacuating them further into the slums. She guided people through backstreets, calming the panicked with reassurances and instructions. When an arm was required, she provided it.

    "When we get past this section, you guys are free and clear," she said, her voice bolstered by the cybernetic modulations of her helmet. "Keep your heads down and stay in the shadows. I''ll make sure we get¡ª"

    A trio of Adrenomancers bounded around the corner, heavily-armed with rifles and faceplates. They caught sight of her instantly, raising their guns to open fire. Fii leaped between the strangers and the gunmen.

    Her helmet''s HUD honed in on the type of rifle they possessed¡ªmilitary-grade submachine guns. She had already experienced the force they generated and now knew much much force she needed to exert against them.

    The moment their guns flashed with fire, she erected a gravity field large enough to encompass the injured and prevent any bullets from reaching them. They dropped harmlessly to the ground and pinged off the pavement.

    After adjusting the force of her field, the incoming bullets swerved around her as if guided by invisible hands. Each lead-loaded projectile orbited in the air before shooting back at her attackers. They jerked and convulsed as the rounds she reflected drilled through their body armor and ripped into flesh.

    "Go, now! Get out of here!"

    They obeyed and darted off. When they were well out of harm''s way, Fii augmented the gravity around her adversaries until they doubled over from the effects. In their weakened state, the increased force flattened them against the road. When Fii finally released her hold, they lay still and bloody, with rib cages and bones protruding through their clothes.

    Fii blinked numbly at the remains and proceeded onward. Another pair of gunmen raced out from her peripheral vision and spun their guns at her. The same reaction. They met the same fate.

    Each death numbed her. At one point she had to retch behind a dumpster. Another time she tripped over her skates and vomited onto a corpse.

    She was getting tired of taking off her helmet each time to hurl.

    Each encounter left her staggering and nauseous. Guilt weighed heavy in her stomach, yet her instincts told her to push on and keep helping those she could. She knew she couldn''t stop until the situation resolved. If she allowed herself to ponder her actions or even assess how she was doing, she would be forced to come to grips with her choices.

    No. That had to wait. Focus on rescuing and saving people. Get them away from here. Stop those bastards.

    Nothing else mattered right now. Not the part of her screaming within her psyche, not the quakes wracking her body and tears running down her cheeks. Just keep moving. Move!

    Fii scaled up a building with her rollerskates and leapt high in the air, altering her gravity to slow down her descent as she surveyed her surroundings. Flashes and popping noises sounded from a two-block radius ahead. Cries and pleas rang out from the far end where a multitude of people huddled on the ground, trapped.

    Closer to her position, she glimpsed two silhouettes leaping toward her position. They dropped on the rooftop in front of her. In a blink they pulled their triggers and began sending a storm of lead her way. Fii narrowed her eyes and sharpened her concentration. Each bullet deflected.

    She extended her hand towards them. Several baseball-sized pieces of broken concrete levitated in front of her palm and with a sweeping gesture, sent the stones hurtling at them with the same velocity and force as a rifle shot.

    The first rock nailed one of the Adrenomancers in the head, bursting his helmet like an eggshell. The second slammed into the chest of the other Adrenomancer and sent him sailing across the rooftop. She didn''t relent until the debris pulped them into unrecognizable mush.

    She barely had time to catch her breath.

    A metallic whine brought her head swiveling around in time to glimpse the incoming RPG. She generated a gravity field a hundred times the usual magnitude in order to offset its acceleration and slow it to a near standstill. Next she pushed outward on its gravitational vector and flung the payload skyward. The rocket detonated hundreds of meters above with a burst of thunder.

    As the loud boom echoed throughout the streets, Fii sailed towards the building housing the launch tube. The rocketeer dropped his launcher and produced a pistol. Three bursts of plasma fizzled from its muzzle and exploded the exterior concrete around the windows. By the time she was upon him, he''d jumped out of his position and skirted along the side of the roof.

    Oh no you don''t! Reach him!

    The hazy ripples in space marking the range of her influence stretched and grew. With a hoarse groan, she extended the range a bit farther¡ªforty meters...fifty meters¡­sixty meters! Her mind burned from the exertion. Almost there!

    "Come...onnn..." The space warped and distorted unnaturally. The man leaped from the rooftop and continued sprinting along a hanging terrace. The scenery rippled as she delved a final ten meters.

    Gotcha!

    Her power wrapped around him and slowed his descent to a crawl. The gunner gawked at his situation in bewilderment, apparently uncertain as to whether he was simply falling or not.

    Fii pulled him and herself towards each other, flying faster and faster in the space between them. As she neared, she built up her speed and spun to deliver a devastating somersault kick to his chest¡ªaugmented by the combined forces of momentum, centrifugal energy, and altering the local vector of gravity. She broke through his body armor and shattered his sternum. He spiraled and crumpled to the ground like a rag doll.

    She pulled herself to a nearby building and stood on its side. Taking a few steady breaths to ease the tightness in her chest, she roller-skated back toward the clustered group. There had to be at least fifty people; too many for her to move on her own. She''d need backup.

    "Edith! Can you spare some drones to guide these people out?" Fii asked aloud.

    <I have three available units heading your way,> Helix informed her. <Estimated arrival in two minutes.>

    "Roger that. Thanks, Helix. Also...have you heard from Virgil? Where is he?"

    <I have lost contact with him as of several minutes ago. The only comms I am receiving are yours. Standby...I will attempt to reestablish communications.>

 Chapter 70: Counterattack

    A neon icon appeared in Fii''s cybermask HUD. The mark designated the road at the edge of the district. <Additional hostiles are approaching.>

    "On it!"

    The drone icons in Fii''s HUD glowed more prominently among the topographic layout of the slums.

    With a flex of will, she inverted her gravitational pull, turning the world topsy-turvy, and ''fell'' towards adjacent buildings as if tossed around by unseen hands. The world tilted spectacularly, turning the dizzying fall into a controlled glide that sent her soaring through the air. She twisted in mid-descent, her roller skates carving arcs of silver streaks in the dark as she alternated her trajectory.

    While the monotonous sprawl of shanty structures made navigation easier at her height, the relatively dim lighting on the streets below forced her to slow her approach and read the outlines and shapes in order to differentiate her position. Even the night vision afforded by her helmet proved insufficient at making out fine details at long distance. She wasn''t going to take a chance in running blind.

    Fii swooped down several blocks before the drone icons zoomed in to take a front-and-center view of her visor. At that point she veered slightly south and descended closer to the road.

    A sudden burst of gunfire splintered the air near her head. Reacting instantly, Fii altered her gravitational field, propelling herself sideways with a violent jerk that left her assailants shooting at shadows. She twisted in the air, the slums spinning wildly around her as she sought refuge in the vertical maze.

    Bullets pinged off the brick walls and balconies around her, raising sprays of dust and spark. A few well-placed strikes into a corroded exhaust duct put a few layers of metal between her and the gunfire.

    Landing with a thud on a narrow ledge, she barely paused, her skates propelling her forward again. Within seconds she''d looped around the corner and snatched an attack vector at her shooters'' six o''clock. She only spared them a passing glance. She wasn''t interested in playing their game.

    Bits of debris scattered and swirled around her as she altered her gravity field to deflect the incoming rounds. In return, she rocketed a slab of concrete in the general direction of her shooters. It blew them apart and off their feet. The splash of red on the building behind them painted an appropriately grisly mural.

    She kept flying. A flare of pain flickered to life on the outside of her calf. A trickle of blood slid down the synthetic material of her suit. Did she get nicked or was it a ricochet?

    No time to look now. Pain can wait.

    <A Bradley Fighting Vehicle is inbound. Be advised.>

    "I don''t know what that is. Explain!"

    <An armored tracked vehicle with a three-man crew and can carry six additional infantry. Its primary armament consists of a 25mm chain gun and a TOW missile system. Please proceed with caution.>

    "Great..." she muttered.

    A faraway rumbling disturbed the street, getting progressively louder by the second. Seconds later a clamoring tank-like vehicle emerged from the dust, flanked by several Adrenomancers on foot.

    Fii angled toward a building ahead and altered the vector of her gravitational field once again, managing an impromptu somersault and kicking off the opposite wall. After repeating this twice, she landed lightly on top of an adjacent rooftop and kicked off a water tower in an arcing leap toward her enemies.

    She zeroed in on the Bradley vehicle and inverted the gravity around it¡ªmagnifying the forces tenfold. It rocketed skyward as if shot from a catapult, soaring well beyond her power''s effective range.

    Meanwhile, she pinned the Adrenomancers left on the ground to each other in a physical clutch of coiled and splayed limbs. Her focus didn''t allow for gentle treatment and each shared a bone-snapping collision with one another.

    Gazing upward at the rapidly descending vehicle, she jerked the pile of bodies directly below its plummet. The ensuing impact flattened and obliterated everyone underneath. An explosive eruption of wreckage and shrapnel burst in every direction.

    When the cloud of dust and smoke settled, Fii didn''t even pause to glance at the heap. She landed briefly and cleared the rest of the street in two wide leaps and was airborne again.

    Flying felt easier with each repetition. Controlling the forces in her immediate vicinity didn''t fatigue her nearly as much as it did before. Even her TFSI value had stabilized and remained constant throughout her excursion.

    Instead, focusing her full attention on extending her range further and further became a mental chore.

    "Helix, status on Virgil''s commlink," she requested between huffing breaths. She dropped between rooftops and skated to a quick stop to recalibrate her bearing. A rickety walkway shuddered in the gust generated from her landing. A nearby billboard swayed.

    <Negative. Commlink still not reestablished.>

    Fii frowned.

    That can''t be good.

    <hr>

    Virgil tromped forward in a dead sprint, his coat billowing behind him as his boots slapped against the uneven pavement. A constant barrage of bullets from both sides snarled and raked the ground around him, scarring the shanty houses with pockmarks and plumes of splinters and debris.

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    In a series of twists and flips, Virgil slalomed between the crossfire and managed to duck into the relative safety of a small cul-de-sac. Before his boots had a chance to touch the ground, he stopped on a dime and fanned the hammer of his revolver to fire off four quick rounds.

    Each shot had a brief ghostly afterglow of flickering ethereal plasma as it trailed the rounds, phasing through the concrete and metal hiding their targets. They had no need to peek or even raise their heads from cover. Virgil''s bullets found them regardless.

    Two Adrenomancers crouched behind a stone retaining wall shuddered and died without ever leaving their positions. A third ducked behind the shell of an old bus. The phantom bullets found him anyway.

    Virgil rushed past them without so much as a passing glance.

    He spotted people scurrying for safety behind the corner of the buildings ahead. A scattering of confused faces glanced in his direction. Several attempted to approach him. They stopped at the sight of his revolver aimed their way.

    "Go the other way," Virgil growled. "Now!"

    He didn''t have to say anymore. They obeyed and scattered away.

    The chaotic echoes of firefighting closed in around him. Farther in, Virgil identified a quartet of civilians clustering for safety behind the barricades.

    Reaper Posse gangsters were actually risking their own skins and daring the streets in order to escort them to safety. They even opened fire at an armored fighting vehicle as it pulled into view, failing to register any effect from their bullets.

    Their panic became palpable as the vehicle''s chain gun spat and stuttered fire at them. Several spun and writhed under the onslaught while the rest got separated by the sudden influx of lead. Only a few managed to find shelter.

    The armored vehicle stopped at the center of the intersection and discharged a squad of Adrenomancers into the fray. These ones didn''t waste any time firing their own weapons. They used their enhanced strength instead and smashed straight into the barricades like living battering rams.

    Metal buckled and flew, taking the barricades with them. Barbed wire and wooden planks scattered uselessly into the air. The people in hiding shrank back or cowered, trying to shield themselves with their hands. Many failed.

    Virgil roared and sprinted toward the carnage. The gangsters managed to recover in time and began laying fire upon the soldiers. Some took the brunt and raised their weapons to fire at them.

    He wasted no time plugging their skulls with a bullet each. Once close enough, he concentrated a charged-up shot and blasted the nearest soldier away. The bolt punched a hole clean through the torso.

    His fingers locked in a rapid staccato as he fanned the hammer, each squeeze spitting out a few more ethereal bullets. Five shots were enough to send three soldiers crumpling lifelessly. A sixth shot rotated the chamber and let him loose one final round to detonate a grenade in an enemy''s belt. The man fell, a smoking cavity in his side.

    "Backfire!" shouted one of the Reaper Posse goons.

    He snapped a warning glare at them and noted their shock and surprise.

    "I ain''t here for you. If you''re going to fire, make sure you''re pointing at the enemy. If you even try and get me in your line of fire..." Virgil cracked the hammer of his gun back and waited. He didn''t finish his threat. He didn''t have to. His point was made.

    He ignored them and pushed his way past a wrecked bus blocking the street. On the other side, the BFV idled at the center. The barrel of its gun was pointed in his direction.

    Virgil quickly fired a temporal round to halt the vehicle''s passage of time before dashing aside. With the seconds suspended, he maneuvered past and combined his phantom and searing brands into one ethereal bullet.

    As soon as the seconds resumed their flow, he released his shot and struck the fuel tank within. The resulting explosion warped the vehicle into a melting lump of smoldering slag. A burning haze replaced the hull''s silhouette. Scraps of blackened metal littered the roads.

    A burning soldier staggered away, flailing and screeching in agony.

    Virgil finished him off with a single shot to the head and sprinted off.

    <hr>

    The increasing amounts of urban warfare spread across the area. While Fii managed to intervene several times to steer people away from harm or hold enemy fire at bay, she worried that she couldn''t reach everyone in time. She started to miss a few people hiding away in corners, behind trash bins or under makeshift covers. People on the streets ducked and dove at the sounds of bullets and screams, unsure of where the next explosion might originate.

    Another unit of Adrenomancers dropped from a Humvee and chased after a band of people from the Dusk Tillers gang. Some ran, and the ones that didn''t get caught quickly. They never had a chance to lay down cover fire.

    A tall gangster with dreadlocks barked an order and the runners abruptly changed directions, peeling off away from their pursuers.

    Fii sailed over them and delivered a salvo of concrete fragments into the backs of the unsuspecting soldiers. The projectiles lanced into them, ripping through clothing and body armor to emerge through the other side. Bodies folded under the blow.

    Her momentum carried her ahead into a graceful aerial pirouette. Once steady, Fii pivoted her body to land and skid along the side of a building, her roller skates scraping as she regained her balance.

    Dreadlocks nodded, grabbed an SMG and raced ahead. "This way! Everyone follow me!"

    The mob followed and trailed after the gang members. Fii headed in a separate direction.

    She leapt from a balcony to glide between two adjacent buildings and descend smoothly into the street beyond. Her wheels caught her landing and turned her into a fast-moving blur, curving and skating nimbly between abandoned cars and past panicked stragglers.

    Not a minute into her dash, her commlink activated. Virgil''s voice rang sharply in her ear.

    <Need an assist at the northwest intersection by the water towers.>

    "Where the heck are you?" She tumbled across the hoods and trunks of a scattering of parked cars as she surged ahead. "I lost track of you for almost thirty minutes!"

    <Do you always argue this much when someone asks for help?>

    "Sorry, I''ll be right there."

    His sarcastic response comforted her a bit. It was the kind of remark Virgil would normally make. He was all right.

    <Clear a path for us. I have civilians with me.>

    "I''m on it. Just get them safe!" Fii weaved across the street and vaulted onto a leaning bus sign, deftly springing between buildings and bounding in a diagonal ascent to get an elevated angle. From there, she made a beeline toward his position.

    A monstrous whump followed by an expanding plume of heat and dust at her nine o''clock heralded the destruction of yet another fighting vehicle. For a second she thought Virgil had dealt with the new threat, until she saw Kenzo''s silhouette advancing a short distance from the debris.

    "Kenzo!"

    Her voice seemed to freeze him for a split-second before his gaze swung up.

    "You good?" she called.

    "Yeah." His answer was crisp and swift. "I got this area handled. You got your hands full elsewhere. Go!"

    Fii nodded and launched away. Kenzo was strong. She was confident he''d be fine.

 Chapter 71: Tribute

    Edith''s footsteps echoed down the dimly lit corridor of the Aether Clinic, the sound crisp against the backdrop of an otherwise silent night. Her hand gripped the handle of a suitcase that held more secrets than clothes. The frown she wore was more deeply rooted than the tired lines creasing her face.

    She stared ahead without a word.

    Tonight, the clinic had only five people staffed and two patients¡ªone of them being Kasumi, the leader of the Neon Vipers, who was resting in the first patient room to the left. Edith walked past her door without glancing in and headed farther along the passage.

    She had reservations about keeping the gangster here. Normally, she wouldn''t allow such a risky guest, but they had an understanding¡ªfor the time being, at least. The gang leader had been offered sanctuary in return for certain... assurances.

    As Edith entered the lobby, Sheri''s voice followed after her. "Edith..."

    Edith spun to face her nurse, who stood behind the counter and put a tablet away. They were alone.

    "I''m heading out."

    Sheri eyed the suitcase, then her. "Everything all right? You''ve never gone out at this time of the night. In fact...I haven''t seen you leave the clinic at all in weeks."

    Edith held back her voice and clamped her mouth shut for a moment. A thousand retorts crossed her mind but she settled with the simplest one: "Business."

    "Where are you going?"

    "Why the twenty questions?" Edith snapped.

    Sheri jerked her head back a little at the remark. Her puzzled stare bored into Edith, clearly wanting more answers. When none came, she sighed and walked around the counter, joining Edith on the other side.

    "Edith. I''m not just the hired help. I care about you and I''m worried. Something''s going on. It has been for a while now. If something''s bothering you...can you talk to me about it? I''ve known you a while now." She placed a hand gently on Edith''s.

    Edith didn''t respond and directed her gaze toward the exit. Sheri wasn''t having it.

    "Hey. Come on. Talk to me." Sheri placed herself between Edith and the door. "Tell me what''s going on."

    "You won''t like it," Edith whispered. She couldn''t maintain the facade for long and eventually capitulated with a defeated sigh. She leaned back and pinched the bridge of her nose. "I''m going out and meet with a potential client to for a deal with my research."

    Sheri gave an unsatisfied "ah huh."

    "There''s a big risk involved, and I don''t want you or the clinic caught in the middle."

    Sheri stepped forward and stared her straight in the eyes. "What. Does. That. Mean?"

    "I''m sorry Sheri. I can''t tell you any more." Edith stepped around the nurse and pressed on toward the door. "Lock up tight and stay inside. I''ll be back¡ª"

    She cut herself off abruptly. She didn''t have the nerve to finish the sentence. Instead, she stepped through the double doors and left her colleague alone with nothing more than a soft click.

    Edith gave a quick glance behind her and quickened her pace. Her skirt ruffled as she walked swiftly out into the streets.

    <hr>

    The slums outside were quieter at this hour, but the silence was deceptive, merely the calm before the storm. Darkened skies and low-lying clouds thickened the surrounding gloom. The dismal gray exuded a depressive tone as Edith made her way through the streets, her head lowered. Her rigid, labored footsteps stood as the only physical clue that something weighed on her mind. She navigated through a neighborhood bordering the main sector.

    Her goal wasn''t far now.

    <Everything in the lab is set up per your instructions, Dr. Weiss> Helix''s voice reverberated in her earpiece. <I am currently assisting Fii with combat and rescue operations. All drones have been deployed. Your discretion is all that''s left.>

    "Thank you, Helix." Her reply was quiet. "Is she doing all right?"

    <Currently, she and Virgil have successfully countered a few groups of Adrenomancers. Both are moving toward an area designated for civilian extraction. Kenzo has joined them. Other gang members are assisting. Situation is under control for the time being.>

    Edith pursed her lips and slowed her walk.

    Good...good. Maybe...this can still work.

    "Okay. Remember the plan. Once I get to my safe house, disable all communications from me and run autonomous protocols." She threw a glance behind her and the briefest sensation of eyes on her back seized her for a moment. "Understand?"

    <Affirmative. I have confirmed receipt of your orders. May I speak freely?> Helix''s artificial voice picked up a softer cadence.

    "Of course."

    <I must reiterate that this plan is not advisable. The potential of fatalities is highly likely, especially when involving an unknown factor.>

    "This isn''t about my self-preservation, Helix," Edith reminded him. "You know the stakes. I need to get my hands on the rest of Salvatore''s Adrenomancer formula. Right now...this is my only chance."

    <With respect, a sense of urgency has influenced your reasoning, leading you to this choice. Under these circumstances¡ª>

    "I''m not debating this anymore," she cut him off. "It''s done."

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    <...Very well. I will cease communications at the appointed time. If this is what you truly desire, I will abide. However...you should proceed with caution.>

    "Will do," Edith whispered. A dry smirk crept across her mouth. "Are you saying you''ll miss me?"

    <Your humor is ill-advised for the moment, Dr. Weiss. Your emotional state is currently stressed and in a heightened state. Your statement would be inaccurate, in any case. My inability to predict the outcome makes my reassurance impossible.>

    "Relax. I''m joking." Her voice lowered. "Sort of."

    <Jokes are often used in tense situations to relieve stress. In light of this situation, I do not recommend banter or joking.>

    "Yeah, you''re probably right." Edith peered at her surroundings, finding the coast clear. She heaved a breath. "But if I''m being honest...I''m a bit scared."

    <I will ensure a backup data stream will be recorded for historical record should the worst come to pass.>

    "That''s not the kind of comforting statement I had in mind," she chided. Edith softened the next second. "Just...look out for Fii and everyone at the clinic. All right?"

    <Confirmed. I will initiate the termination protocol as instructed. Good luck, doctor.>

    "Thanks."

    Silence resumed.

    Edith steered herself down a side street. She started to move a bit quicker. The idea that someone was watching her preyed on her thoughts. She made sure she wasn''t bugged, but if Salvatore had competent scouts and a skilled tracker out here, they had no reason to make a move yet. For the moment, they''d bide their time and see where she went.

    Assuming they''ve taken the bait.

    It didn''t matter. If they had or not, the stage was set. Now she just had to make her entrance and hope the cost was worth the reward.

    <hr>

    These streets held memories¡ªevery corner a reminder of her exile from the metropolis. The neat boulevards and estates she had grown up in seemed like a mirage now. If she''d followed the rules...if she had swallowed her pride and sacrificed her ambitions to the proverbial demons¡ªthe elites and corporate ruling class¡ªnone of this would have happened. None of her missteps.

    Initially, Edith had despised everything about the slums¡ªthe dirt, the grime, the hardship, the rough living and squalor. Even the lack of basic amenities was an affront.

    But as days turned into months, her disdain gave way to a begrudging respect. Slumshines, a term of endearment for someone in the slums, had become an apt description. Like a diamond in the rough, there was something worth admiring buried under the hardships and squalor.

    Here the people survived without the luxury of cheap knockoff synthetics or government aid. And while life was considerably more challenging than the comforts afforded by the metropolis, it was also much more authentic. Real. The simple things like gratitude or happiness meant more than just an expression to a greeting.

    Masquerading as a doctor at the Aether Clinic, she had provided care to the locals despite being treated with suspicion and wariness. Little by little she earned their trust and found an appreciation for what they did and how they did it.

    The clinic had started as a cover, a way to access biological materials and continue her experiments. But over time, her role had changed her, softened edges long since calloused from scientific pressures. The irony of her situation didn''t escape her; once a researcher who viewed subjects as mere data points, now a person who spent more time around patients than in her laboratory.

    Still, this was more than a front. She could have just closed shop after her serum had successfully altered Fii into a Metahuman, but she kept the facade going and provided assistance whenever possible. Part of her had found fulfillment. Here...she wasn''t a criminal. Or a genius. Or a psychopath.

    Here...she was a doctor.

    Edith pushed onward. One foot in front of the other. Another alleyway, another street. Every turn led to the next block and closer to her destination.

    Despite her plans and precautions, the prospect of failure dogged her. They lingered as persistent thoughts...threatening to steal her focus and courage. Edith shut them out, careful not to dwell. As a scientist, she would remain objective and drive to complete her mission.

    Doubts would only breed failure.

    She thrust them away. Instead, she turned her mind toward what was about to unfold.

    Salvatore wants the miracle drug that could create Metahumans¡ªand she was the genie obliging the wish. His soldiers wouldn''t dare jeopardize her¡ªshe was too valuable. But with a hidden agenda of her own...this could be an opportunity she''d never have again.

    Her thoughts were interrupted as she turned into an alley that led to her safe house¡ªa nondescript building tucked away behind a series of cross streets and backroads. The area was quieter, away from the main thoroughfares, and used mostly for storage by local vendors. Perfectly ordinary and off the beaten path.

    Edith keyed in the code on the digital pad, the numbers glowing dimly in the night. The door clicked open, and she stepped inside, her footsteps echoing in the empty space. The safe house was sparsely furnished, a far cry from the cluttered, life-filled chaos of her clinic. Here, there were only the essentials¡ªa bed, a small kitchenette, a work area, and a toilet. Functional, but practical. And perhaps a bit bleak.

    She set her suitcase down and walked over to the large window that overlooked the alley. Somewhere out there, Fii was fighting.

    Edith closed her eyes and placed a hand on the glass. Thoughts of Fii flickered in her mind. Worry and a sense of pride twisted within. The young girl had made such progress and Edith felt like a mother. A cold, callous mother¡ªbut a mother nonetheless.

    As she turned from the window, her reflection caught her eye. The woman staring back was a far cry from the esteemed geneticist of her past. Edith grimaced.

    Fatigued. Unkempt. Reclusive. No doubt some would think her crazy. Most likely correct. A mess, a disgrace...but Fii didn''t see that. Well...maybe in the beginning, but not now. At least she hoped so.

    Either way, she didn''t blame her.

    "Were you expecting to get kidnapped, Dr. Edith Weiss?" A woman''s voice jolted her from her thoughts. Her head whipped around to look at the intruder.

    The space in front of the door rippled and fizzled as a woman in a cybernetic suit coalesced into view. A hum resonated around her body, her face hidden behind a black visor. Edith staggered back.

    "My, my...you do have a spine. A bold move leaving the clinic like this. It seems like you somehow caught on that Salvatore has his sights on you. Is that why you brought that suitcase full of juicy goodies?" The woman gestured to the case on the floor.

    "Who the hell are you?" Edith growled.

    "Me? Name''s Mirage. I''m here to bring you to Salvatore, whether you like it or not. Though...guess you''re already willing to make a trade. Shame. I was looking forward to prying you outta your nest myself. How ''bout you play nice and we skip the whole snatch and grab part? Saves us all the trouble."

    Edith grabbed her suitcase and adjusted her glasses. "Fine...then I''m ready to go."

    "Love a lady who''s prepared." Mirage opened her arms. "Well, step right this way and don''t try anything funny."

    "Will Salvatore recall the rest of his men and Adrenomancers? Otherwise, I refuse to do business. My previous offer is off the table," Edith said, her eyes locked with Mirage.

    Mirage tilted her head and pointed her finger to her ear. "Sorry. The boss'' orders trump your terms." She paused. "He says ''he has unfinished business with Backfire and the gangs.''"

    Edith scowled.

    "Eh...I''m sure Axion will be fine. Girl can hold her own from what I''ve seen." Mirage shrugged and resumed her cocky pose. "Boss can promise to leave her alone in return for your services."

    "And I suppose his promise is worth the air he expels," Edith sneered.

    "Ha...well. He can''t help his reputation." Mirage let a hand rest on her hip. "Either way, time''s running short, and I''ve got an important appointment to get to."

    Edith shifted her grip on the suitcase. "Fine."

 Chapter 72: Climbing Broken Ladders

    A small band of stragglers crawled on the ground or hobbled as fast as they could away from the heart of the crossfire. A few were wounded. Others helped each other along as they limped away. An explosion to their right startled them and several people in the middle screamed. They broke into a frenzied sprint.

    Virgil came running in from their left and whistled for their attention.

    "This way!" He motioned them onward with his hand. "Get off the streets and follow me."

    His commanding voice stunned them momentarily. A few started to object.

    "You want to die here?!" He halted briefly to level his gun and fired. Two bolts cut through the air and smashed into a pair of soldiers dashing in from a side street. They dropped dead in a heap. "Move!"

    The group needed no further coaxing. The band streamed past him as he turned and joined them. As they neared a bend, he directed them toward an alleyway. The group clustered together while he planted himself at the opening.

    "Fii, where are you?" he transmitted. "I''m pinned down in¡ª"

    <I see you! Hang on!> Her voice was bright and clear through the link.

    He barely caught a flicker of motion streaking across the skyline before the ground shuddered and exploded under an incoming mortar shell. The blast struck the mouth of the alley and threw debris and burning chunks of brickwork everywhere. The impact threw several people off their feet.

    Virgil gritted his teeth and stood his ground to protect them.

    Another salvo descended in his direction¡ªonly to divert upwards at the last second and detonate high in the air. He cast a glance at Fii''s position. She gestured as she leapt and bounded toward him.

    "I''m here! I''ll hold ''em off," she called as she landed nearby. "Get them out of here!"

    He spared her a nod and ushered the frightened stragglers away. Fii sent another few pieces of rubble in their pursuers'' direction before sliding into place beside him. She immediately threw up a protective field to deflect more incoming gunfire.

    "Thanks." He peeked over his shoulder and noted the people''s progress. They were almost past the barricades and into the next street.

    One of Edith''s drones appeared and circled around the fleeing civilians. They''d managed to reach the end of the alley and disappear from sight.

    <I shall escort them to safety,> Helix reported over the commlink.

    The Humvee, which had remained idle during the brief intermission, roared back to life and began creeping forward again. Two armored soldiers brandishing large caliber rifles opened fire from its roof. A third, standing nearby, flung a grenade at them.

    Before Virgil could shoot the grenade out of the air, Fii altered its trajectory back to its thrower. The explosion ripped the soldier apart and damaged the Humvee''s side. The second man lost his balance and fell off the roof.

    Virgil dispatched him with a well-placed shot to the chest.

    The vehicle tried to swerve around a nearby barrier and ran straight into a chunk of debris.

    "Alright, move!" Virgil surged forward and dashed toward the Humvee. He spun and fanned the hammer. Each pull unleashed a phantom bullet that found its mark in the skull of one soldier or another. One by one they dropped and soon lay sprawled all over the vehicle''s hood and deck.

    Another drone zipped overhead and hovered beside him. <I am currently tracking seventy-two Adrenomancers and three hundred thirteen soldiers spread into ten separate units throughout the slums. Of those numbers, I have marked thirty-three percent as ''currently engaged''.>

    Fii approached to join him. "What''s our play?" she asked.

    "We split up and keep clearing each area," Virgil replied. "We''ll manage more ground if we split up. Besides, you''re better at getting people out of tight spots." He shifted his gaze to the drone. "Helix. I want you to tag each individual for Fii''s HUD and send her to whoever needs help the most."

    <Very well. Alerting...> Helix displayed a series of red icons on Fii''s cyber helmet''s display. <Mapping routes...>

    Virgil clapped her shoulder. "You go high and I''ll take the streets. Get as many people to safety as you can. That''s the priority. If you can manage a few Adrenomancers, great. If not, leave them to me." He jerked his chin toward the north. "Head that way first. I''ll make my way around from the east. Watch your six."

    Fii nodded. "And what about the gangs? Should we help them too?"

    "Let them fight if they want to." He adjusted his hat and fired a charged shot to finish off the final soldier trying to flee. "The only people we save are the ones who want to be saved."

    "All right." She darted ahead and launched into the air with a vaulting leap. Her gravitational field carried her forward and sent her spinning into a graceful ascent. "See you in a bit."

    Virgil nodded and lowered his gaze back to the street.

    He still couldn''t figure out why Salvatore had thrown everything he had at the slums all of a sudden. It didn''t make any sense. If this was some sort of retaliation for ruining his Shiver operations, then it seemed excessive and way overkill. Something else must have been going on. Salvatore wouldn''t waste so many lives and resources just to avenge some cash losses.

    Or would he?

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    "Helix," Virgil grunted. "Let me talk to Edith."

    <I am afraid Dr. Edith will not be available for the time being.> Helix''s usual politeness disappeared in a mechanical monotone. <You may direct your requests to me for now.>

    He clenched his teeth. "What do you mean?"

    What the hell was she doing right now? She should be helping coordinate their efforts. Granted, she had her own way of doing things, but even she wasn''t this detached.

    <Dr. Edith is currently unavailable. Please direct your inquiries to me for the time being.>

    "That''s not good enough. Where is she?"

    <Unfortunately, I am not at liberty to discuss such details at this time. If you have any further queries¡ª>

    Virgil bared his teeth in a grimace. He could push for answers but he doubted the A.I. would talk. Either way, this wasn''t the time to go looking for Edith. There were lives on the line and they needed his full attention. The last thing he wanted was for his anger to cause someone else to get hurt or killed. For now, he''d just have to deal with it.

    <hr>

    Fii sailed through the sky as she reached for the nearest ledge. Her roller skates dug into the side of the building and pushed her over the edge. Her body spiraled forward as she twisted in midair to land gracefully on the opposite roof.

    She repeated this a few times and alternated her route from left to right to quickly navigate around several buildings. All the while, Helix sent her fresh updates about areas in distress. Red icons lit up like small bonfires along the topographic map of the slums. Even with her speed, she worried about getting to everyone in time. There were just too many places to be and not enough of her to go around.

    Just as she began to feel overwhelmed, Fii saw Kenzo on the ground below. He managed to fight off a handful of Adrenomancers by himself. A few bodies already littered the area and three more lay bleeding nearby. Several Reaper Posse members were trying to limp away behind him. One dragged another wounded gangster with an arm slung over his shoulder.

    The biggest Adrenomancer sported a ragged gash across his stomach. Blood leaked from the wound and stained his already crimson clothing. Still, he lunged at Kenzo and attempted to cleave him in two with his giant chainsaw blade.

    Kenzo gracefully sidestepped and the blade screeched past him with a shower of sparks. He ducked underneath the following swipe and pivoted his weight forward to deliver a swift thrust to the man''s chest.

    "¹²øQÈÐ (Ky¨­mei Ha)!" Kenzo yelled. His katana resonated in a sonic hum as its blade glowed.

    His opponent tried to sidestep but failed. The weapon''s edge bit into his ribs and ripped him open like an overripe fruit. His innards spilled to the ground.

    A second Adrenomancer closed in from Kenzo''s blindside with a flurry of metal projectiles. He whipped his arm around to generate a curved crescent-shaped shield of high-frequency sound. Each disc harmlessly ricocheted off its surface and clattered to the ground. With a smooth stroke, Kenzo slid his blade from its sheath and spun into a killing arc.

    The Adrenomancer erupted in a shower of blood. Two halves of the body crashed against the pavement.

    Fii steered herself into a wide descent and angled toward them. "Kenzo!"

    He pivoted his head at her voice and waited. She landed lightly beside him, turning away from the gore. Even now she still had trouble getting used to the sight of these gruesome deaths. Nausea hit her but she fought back the urge to retch.

    "You good?" she gasped. Her roller skates trembled and wobbled beneath her as she fought to keep steady. "Oh boy...that was rough."

    Kenzo wiped the blood off his blade with a spare rag and slid it back into his sheath. "I''m good. How about you? What''s the situation?"

    "They''re swarming everywhere," Fii replied. "Virgil and I are trying to clear the streets. Any help you can give would be great." She glanced around. "What about the gangs? Are they helping out too?"

    Kenzo pursed his lips and adjusted his headphones. "Not sure. They''re more focused on securing their turf right now. That''s how things usually go here. The Ironclad Legion is probably the only one actively helping people get out." He cracked his neck. "Let me know if you need me to cover anything."

    "Gotcha." She activated her commlink. "Helix, can you give me an updated report on each section? I need to know where the bad guys are now."

    <Accessing surveillance drones...Marking Adrenomancers...marking civilians...> A series of blinking dots began populating on Fii''s helmet''s screen. <Sending update to your HUD.>

    Fii watched the tags begin to light up and change color as they winked in and out across the map of the slums. While several areas were still marked red for active combat, a handful had been cleared.

    "Okay. Looks like I''ll head to these sectors. Are you good here?"

    "Yeah," Kenzo replied. "I''ll get these guys out of here and then join you."

    Fii nodded and surged ahead with a final wave. "I''ll see you there."

    As she soared away, she prayed the gangs would do their part and help those in need. Hopefully, at least some of them cared more about saving lives than securing territory. Slumshines didn''t always get along with each other, but when the stakes were this high, surely they could set aside their differences to help one another? They had to.

    She vaulted and pulled herself across several more buildings before sailing down to street level again. The closer she got to the red dots on her map, the louder the sounds of chaos became. Explosions, gunfire, screaming...it was everywhere.

    As Fii turned a corner to follow the first route, she caught sight of the Carnage Collective gang fighting off a small group of Adrenomancers and their soldier escorts. The soldiers kept their distance while the Adrenomancers attempted to close in and crush the gangsters.

    In the middle of the street, their sub-leader¡ª"Hammer" Kareem¡ªstruggled to hold his own against one giant hulk of an Adrenomancer. His opponent swung a heavy two-handed axe that he wielded with both hands. Each strike sliced and smashed the concrete apart.

    Fii bounded off the walls and over parked cars as she raced toward them. Once close enough, she sent the Adrenomancers and soldiers sailing into the air with a single surge of gravitational force.

    They slammed against walls, each other, and the ground before they could get a shot off. Their crumpled forms thudded heavily on the pavement and lay there twitching. She repeated the move twice more until they stopped moving altogether.

    The nausea came back again but she fought it down.

    With the immediate threat neutralized, she landed lightly on the hood of a nearby car and rolled to a stop in front of the gangsters. "Are you guys okay?"

    Kareem glanced at her briefly and scoffed. "We had that."

    "Sure," Fii replied, unsure how else to respond. "But you''re welcome anyway."

    "Don''t think we owe you nothin''," Kareem added. "The slums ain''t gonna come together like some dream team. It''s every man for himself." He shouldered his pipe rifle and thumbed his nose at her. "So don''t get any ideas."

    Fii blinked. "But you''re fighting those guys now, right? Why don''t we just¡ª"

    Kareem ignored her and turned to the rest of his gang. "Collect their weapons and ammo. Don''t leave anythin'' behind." The other gang members snapped to and began scavenging the dead bodies. He briefly glanced at Fii. "See? We''re fine. Now get outta here, Super. You got other lives to save."

    With a confused nod, she shrugged and skated away. Behind her, Kareem shouted for the gang to move on.

    As Fii picked up speed and shot across the rooftops again, she tried not to dwell too much on Kareem''s reaction. He''d made it clear where he and his gang stood. At least they were willing to fight back and put their lives on the line, but she couldn''t help but think there was a better way. They didn''t have to be alone or choose to go at it solo. In the end, it was only going to cost them more lives.

 Chapter 73: Behind the Moniker

    A line of soldiers charged at him. Bullets burst apart all around Virgil as he dashed through the street. Several shots tore into his coat and sliced into his arm. Blood trickled from the gashes.

    He spun around and held the gun sideways. One trigger pull, one after another, unleashed a salvo of ethereal bullets in an arc. Each shot struck home and several soldiers crumpled under the onslaught. A grenade clattered to the ground in front of him. Before he could react, it exploded.

    The blast threw him back with a searing rush of heat and dust. His head cracked against the pavement and he nearly blacked out.

    Virgil forced himself to roll over and groaned. He felt his back burn where shrapnel had torn through his coat. The wounds ached but he wasn''t bleeding too badly.

    Struggling to his feet, he dragged his gun and rose to one knee.

    Two Adrenomancers charged toward him from different angles. The tall one reached him first and slammed into him with a brutal shoulder charge. Virgil hit the ground and rolled. He caught a glimpse of a thin spear arcing down and twisted aside. The weapon embedded itself into the concrete where his neck had been a split-second earlier.

    The other Adrenomancer pulled back on the spear and drove the blunt end straight into Virgil''s gut.

    His body absorbed the brunt of the impact but it still hurt like hell. Gasping for breath, he fired two shots at the man and scrambled to his feet. The ethereal bullets bounced off his foe''s armor. A spear lanced toward him again. Virgil brought his gun up in time to deflect it. He grabbed the haft with his free hand and fired point blank into the Adrenomancer''s chest.

    The round ignited and spread a flash of flame over the armored man. His scream died as he collapsed into a smoldering heap.

    The other Adrenomancer assaulted him before he could get his bearings. He dodged aside but was too slow to avoid a gauntlet to the side of his head. Pain flashed across his face.

    He held his gun steady and fired back. A bullet plowed through the Adrenomancer''s helmet. Blood sprayed from the entrance wound. The rest of the man''s body remained still.

    Virgil grimaced and inspected the area for any more hostiles. As soon as the coast was clear, he activated his commlink. "Fii? Report."

    <Hey...I''m...north side of the slums.> She sounded winded. <Are you...okay?>

    "Yeah," he grunted. "What''s your status?"

    <I''m working on it. There''s a lot of bad guys out here. I''ve cleared some areas but...some others aren''t doing so good. You?>

    "Same. Helix? What''s our situation?"

    <Accessing drones...> The A.I.''s mechanical voice filled his earpiece. <Current status: There are sixty-one Adrenomancers and two-hundred fifty-three soldiers still active. Three fighting vehicles remain operational. Five major engagements underway...>

    As Helix ran through the numbers, Virgil listened and clenched his teeth. It wasn''t good. He''d hoped they''d have been able to turn the tide by now, but the fighting was far too spread out for them to deal with effectively. The only thing they could do was keep going and pick off as many hostiles as they could. As long as the number of enemies kept dropping, he''d take it.

    <I am detecting hostile movement in your immediate vicinity.> Helix alerted him.

    Virgil turned to check on the newcomers. They were soldiers¡ªa lot of them. From his vantage point, he counted ten spread across the street. Another line moved behind them. At least fifteen more.

    "Got it," he grunted. "Hey kid? I''ll catch you later. You just keep doing what you''re doing." He clenched his teeth and pulled the brim of his hat down low. "I got some punks to deal with."

    <hr>

    Amidst the chaos of the battle-scarred streets, Elijah "The Enforcer" Gray commanded his territory with the grim authority of a warlord. The alleyways of the slums echoed with the crack of gunfire and the screams of the wounded as the Ashen Hand clashed with Salvatore¡¯s forces. Around him, gangsters fought and fell beneath the hail of enemy fire. Some managed to drag themselves to safety while others lay motionless in the gutter.

    Dust and debris clouded the air, but through the murky haze, Elijah''s unique ability churned the ash into a swirling tempest around him. His hands waved through the air, and swaths of smoky tendrils spiraled out, coalescing into solid forms.

    With a flick of his wrist, ash solidified into sharp projectiles that flew through the air, embedding themselves into the armor of an advancing Adrenomancer. Blood poured from the wounds as he fell to his knees.

    Elijah lashed out with another wave of tendrils, sending a hail of ash and cinder slicing through the enemy line. Several soldiers collapsed in an instant. One threw himself behind a nearby barrier, firing back with wild abandon.

    A moment later, the man''s face contorted in agony as an ashen tendril wrapped around his throat. He writhed for a few seconds before falling still.

    As he advanced, Elijah transformed his arms into swirling vortices of choking ash, engulfing a group of soldiers who had been pinning down a section of his gang. The ash seeped into every crevice of their gear, filling their lungs and blinding their vision, leaving them gasping and vulnerable.

    The Ashen Hand members didn''t hesitate, rushing forward to capitalize on the confusion he wrought. Several enemy soldiers crumpled under concentrated gunfire. Others were pummeled into the pavement with vicious blows from reinforced clubs and machetes. Their numbers thinned quickly.

    "Form up! Shields front, shooters behind!" Elijah barked as he charged ahead. At his command, particles of ash swirled around him, coalescing into a dense, swirling cloud. As he brought his arm forward, the cloud solidified into a broad, impenetrable shield, blocking the incoming barrage of bullets.

    "Now!" Elijah roared as he advanced into the fray. Behind him, his gang followed suit, using the cover he provided to pepper the enemy line with concentrated gunfire. Several soldiers dropped under the assault, but a few managed to fall back to the safety of cover. As they regrouped, Elijah stepped forward to meet them.

    The ash shield exploded outward in a ferocious torrent, transforming into a barrage of sharp, solid shards that ripped through the enemy ranks. Screams echoed as the shards found their marks, piercing armor and flesh alike.

    As the barrage subsided, several Adrenomancers charged into the breach, rushing forward to confront Elijah directly. The Ashen Gang brawlers who met them first were tossed aside like rag dolls. Their bodies hit the pavement with sickening crunches.

    One Adrenomancer with an enormous two-handed axe spun a brutal killing arc towards him.

    In an instant, Elijah''s body dissolved into a cloud of dark smoke, reassembling behind the advancing Adrenomancers. Before they could react, he thrusted his hands forward, sending a dense billow of choking ash into their faces.

    They coughed and sputtered as they fell to their knees. As the others turned to face him, he slipped past them once more, moving like a wraith through the swirling miasma. As they struggled to orient themselves, Elijah struck. A dense tendril materialized in his grasp, solidifying into a sharpened spearhead that pierced one of the Adrenomancers straight through the chest.

    A third Adrenomancer charged through the haze, his form blurry with the speed granted by his enhancements. As he closed the distance, Elijah dissolved once more into a thick cloud of smoke and ash. The Adrenomancer''s chain-wrapped fist sailed harmlessly through the space where he''d been.

    Before the Adrenomancer could react, Elijah reformed behind him, a deadly blade of ashen matter materializing in his hand. He brought the blade down in a swift arc, slicing cleanly through the man''s neck.

    As the body crumpled to the ground, Elijah looked up to see the final Adrenomancer being beaten to death by his gang.

    "For the Hand!" one of them shouted as they closed in for the kill. The others joined in the chant as they piled on top of their victim. They pummeled and stabbed the Adrenomancer until his form was motionless beneath them.

    Elijah waved his arm to clear away the dust and debris in front of him.

    As the air cleared, he surveyed the scene around him. Bodies littered the ground in a grisly display of violence and brutality. Many were his own men. A few unlucky souls were still twitching and moaning as they lay there bleeding out.

    He snapped his fingers to get their attention. "You. You and you. Finish ''em off." Elijah pointed to the wounded enemy soldiers. "The rest of you, clean up this mess."

    "Yes sir!" came the chorus of replies.

    As his gang scrambled to follow his orders, Elijah reached into his pocket and pulled out a worn pack of cigarettes. He shook one out and lit it with a flick of his thumb. As he took a long drag, he glanced around the battlefield.

    The smoke hung thick in the air, lending a hazy glow to the scene before him. Despite the destruction wrought by the fighting, he couldn''t help but admire the beauty of it all. There was a certain artistry to the violence and chaos that unfolded in these streets. He didn''t always agree with how Mother Mercy ran things, but he could appreciate her vision.

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    This was their domain. Their kingdom. And they would hold it against any who dared try to take it from them.

    He took another long drag and exhaled slowly. The smoke curled around him in lazy tendrils before drifting off into the wind. It was almost poetic. Like the souls of the dead escaping their bodies.

    His thoughts were interrupted by the distant sound of gunfire¡ªa distinct cadence he recognized instantly. The only person who fired rounds like that in the slums was Virgil.

    A cold smile crept across his face as he pondered the possibility of facing the man himself in combat. The thought sent a thrill down his spine. He''d been waiting for this chance ever since they''d first clashed years ago. If this battle went according to plan, he''d finally get his wish.

    No doubt the vigilante had his hands full with Salvatore''s men. It would be the perfect opportunity to strike. Maybe even finish what they started all those years ago. But more than that...it would be an opportunity to prove himself. To show Mother Mercy and the rest of the Hand what he was capable of.

    With a final drag on his cigarette, Elijah tossed it aside and turned to the nearest group of gangsters. "You. You''re coming with me. We''re gonna hunt us a vigilante."

    <hr>

    As they neared Virgil¡¯s location, Elijah felt the familiar rush of adrenaline mixed with a deep-seated rage. This was his chance to settle old scores. He motioned for his gang to split up and surround the area while he closed in from the front. They acknowledged the order and faded into the shadows as instructed.

    In the distance, a figure stood alone against a squad of soldiers. There was no mistaking the tall, imposing silhouette that belonged to Virgil. The man stood firm despite the hail of bullets flying his way. His revolver bucked in his hand as he fired shot after shot with practiced precision. The bullets tore through the enemy line, felling several soldiers with each pull of the trigger.

    It was a mesmerizing display of skill and marksmanship. Even Elijah had to admit he was impressed. But as impressive as it was, he couldn''t let himself get distracted. The vigilante was a formidable opponent, and he needed to be at the top of his game if he wanted to have any chance at victory.

    Just meters away now, Elijah prepared for the confrontation. His body swirled with ash and smoke as he drew closer.

    Virgil, as if sensing the approaching threat, turned slowly to face him.

    Elijah stepped out, his form coalescing from smoke into solidity, a grim specter of wrath. "Virgil!" he roared, his voice echoing off the shattered facades of the nearby buildings.

    The vigilante turned to face him and adjusted his hat. He raised his revolver and pointed it squarely at Elijah''s chest. "Well...if it ain''t the Enforcer himself." His drawl carried through the din of battle.

    "You and I got unfinished business," Elijah called out as he approached. "I think it''s time we settled things once and for all."

    Virgil cocked his head to the side. "Now''s not a good time. Maybe later?"

    Elijah smirked and cracked his knuckles. "Oh no, this is exactly the right time. I''ve been waitin'' for this day for a long time." He pointed an accusing finger at the vigilante. "Today you die!"

    Virgil chuckled dryly. "I like your confidence. You sure you don''t want to rethink that last part?"

    "Shut up!" Elijah roared. "I''m tired of hearing you talk! Let''s do this!"

    With a snarl, he lunged forward. As he closed the distance between them, the air around him erupted into swirling eddies of ash and smoke. Tendrils lashed out like striking vipers, snapping at Virgil from every angle. The vigilante dodged and weaved through the assault, his trenchcoat billowing behind him.

    He fired a few shots as he evaded the strikes.

    Elijah''s ashen shield absorbed the bullets with ease. He smiled at the futile effort. "Is that all you got?"

    Virgil adjusted his hat and took aim again. "Not even close."

    A searing round tore through Elijah''s shield and pierced his armor, carving a bloody furrow across his shoulder. He gritted his teeth and pressed on, launching another barrage of ash tendrils at the vigilante. They hammered against Virgil''s body, knocking him off balance. He staggered backwards and fell to one knee.

    "Hah!" Elijah cried out in triumph. "See? I told you I''d¡ª" He cut himself short as he felt a sharp pain in his gut. Looking down, he saw a bullet hole in his midsection. The blood began to trickle out slowly. His face twisted into a snarl. "Bastard..."

    Virgil rose to his feet, the revolver smoking in his hand. "Still think this is a good idea?"

    Elijah clenched his jaw and steadied himself. "We''re just getting started."

    The ash churned around him as he launched another flurry of strikes at the vigilante. The tendrils lashed out with deadly force, slicing through the air and biting into Virgil''s skin. But despite the damage, the man didn''t falter. He fired back while simultaneously managing the hail of bullets from Salvatore''s men.

    He led Elijah across the battlefield, guiding him to avoid the enemy fire. Elijah, caught up in the heat of battle, followed eagerly.

    "You look distracted, Backfire! Can''t keep up?" he taunted.

    Virgil¡¯s response was a stoic silence, his focus split between the approaching gang enforcer and the soldiers who relentlessly pressed their attack. The vigilante spun around in a blur of movement, dodging and weaving through the swirling tendrils. He fired a few rounds at Elijah before turning his attention back to Salvatore''s men. Shot after shot thudded into the advancing soldiers, felling them like wheat before a scythe.

    Meanwhile, Elijah''s men moved in to support him. They fired on Virgil from the surrounding buildings and rooftops, forcing him to duck for cover behind a nearby dumpster. Bullets pinged off the metal as he crouched there.

    Elijah grinned and took advantage of the momentary reprieve to catch his breath. The blood flowed freely from his wounds now. It trickled down his chest and legs. But he didn''t care. He was too focused on the fight ahead.

    As he lunged forward, his form dissipated into a cloud of smoke, reassembling behind Virgil.

    The veteran gunslinger¡¯s instincts kicked in, and he rolled to the side, firing three shots mid-move. Each bullet whizzed through the cloud of ash where Elijah had been moments before, striking Salvatore¡¯s men approaching from behind.

    Elijah reformed, ash coalescing into solidity just as Virgil regained his footing. They locked eyes for a brief moment.

    With a swift motion, Elijah waved his hand, sending a dense cloud of choking ash towards Virgil, attempting to obscure his vision and suffocate him.

    Virgil had already clicked his revolver to the next chamber. A searing blue bullet fired, cutting through the smoke with ethereal fire that lit the night. The bullet barely missed Elijah, igniting a nearby pile of debris instead.

    "Fancy tricks," Elijah grumbled, his form flickering between solid and smoky as he advanced.

    Virgil, undeterred, fired another shot, this one aimed not at Elijah but at a cluster of Salvatore''s men who had tried to flank him. The bullet, glowing with a brilliant luminosity, marked the soldier it hit, turning him into a beacon. A second shot impacted the marked soldier, and the man screamed in agony as ethereal flames engulfed him. He flailed about wildly, only for the flames to leap onto another nearby soldier. They both fell to the ground, thrashing about in pain as they burned.

    "Still got some fight in ya, I see," Elijah acknowledged gruffly, reforming his strategy.

    He surged forward, arms spread wide as he manipulated the smoke into a thick wall, moving it like a wave to crash down upon Virgil. The vigilante twisted and fired an ethereal round at the approaching wall.

    This time, the bullet froze the smoke in place momentarily, giving Virgil the split second he needed to move. He rolled away from the impact zone just as the wall dispersed and exploded outward in a swirling vortex of ash.

    Elijah''s eyes widened in momentary surprise. "How?"

    Virgil kept firing with ethereal rounds as he dodged and weaved through the chaotic assault. Each shot sent ripples through the smoke, causing it to swirl and eddy as they passed through.

    Elijah scowled and redoubled his efforts. His strikes came faster now. More powerful. He threw everything he had into the attack. And yet...the vigilante continued to evade him. With each successful dodge, Virgil landed another shot on a soldier or gang member behind Elijah. The surrounding buildings were littered with corpses from the vigilante''s deadly precision.

    Elijah paused and reformed for a brief second to take stock of the situation. He could sense the tide of the battle turning against him. He needed to find a way to even the odds. And fast.

    As Virgil turned to face him once more, three Adrenomancers burst through the wreckage of the buildings on either side. Two of them charged towards Virgil while the others headed for Elijah. One threw a flurry of punches at Virgil while another launched a brutal kick at his midsection.

    The blows landed squarely, staggering the vigilante.

    Elijah, meanwhile, held off the third Adrenomancer''s assault with a defensive cloud of smoke. "Back off!" he growled at the assailant. "This is my fight!"

    He blasted the Adrenomancer with a barrage of solid ash tendrils that knocked the man away. Before he could regain his footing, Elijah sent a wave of ashen spears at the man. They pierced his body in several places, impaling him to the ground.

    "Now...where were we?" Elijah turned to face Virgil again.

    The vigilante seemed to have his hands full with the two Adrenomancers, struggling to keep them both at bay. One of them kicked his legs out from under him, sending him crashing to the ground. The other delivered a series of powerful punches to his midsection while the first pinned him down.

    Perfect. Just the opportunity Elijah needed. He reared back and hurled a cloud of smoke at Virgil. It swirled around the vigilante and his attackers, obscuring them from view. A moment later, he sent a barrage of ash tendrils lashing out at them from all directions.

    The Adrenomancers managed to leap away in time, but Virgil wasn''t so lucky. The tendrils caught him full force, slashing and tearing at his body as they slammed him into the ground. His revolver slipped from his grasp and skidded across the pavement.

    "That''s more like it," Elijah crowed as he strode forward. He took his time approaching Virgil, savoring the moment.

    Somehow, the vigilante managed to pull himself up. His trenchcoat hung in tatters, revealing the numerous wounds covering his body. His hat lay askew on his head. But still...he refused to fall. Even now, he remained defiant. Unbroken. Elijah had to admit he admired that quality in the man.

    "You got no gun, no tricks...no hope," Elijah boasted. "Now you''re hoving in death''s door."

    The two Adrenomancers looked at each other before also stepping towards Virgil. Two more approached from the sides as well. They circled him like a pack of wolves circling their prey.

    "This one''s mine," Elijah barked. "Stay outta my way."

    They nodded and backed off. They might''ve been working for Salvatore, but even they weren''t stupid enough to try to interfere with an established grudge match.

    Elijah stalked closer to Virgil, grinning wickedly. "You ain''t nothin'' without your fancy gun," he sneered. "Face it, Backfire...you''re outmatched."

    Virgil glared back at him through a swollen eye. "Is that right?" He spat blood onto the ground before continuing. "Maybe I don''t need the gun."

    Elijah paused, his grin faltering as he sensed a shift. The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end.

    Virgil''s eyes closed momentarily, and when they opened again, they burned with a cold, otherworldly light.

    The ground beneath their feet trembled slightly, the vibrations sending tiny fissures snaking across the concrete.

    Suddenly, behind Virgil, the air shimmered like heated asphalt. A spectral form began to coalesce¡ªa towering skeletal entity wrapped in tattered robes that fluttered in a non-existent wind. Eight skeletal arms extended from its body, each clutching an ornate revolver, the barrels glinting ominously in the low light.

    The figure''s head was a haunting visage of a Buddha-like skull, crowned with three glowing red eyes. It loomed behind Virgil like an ancient guardian spirit.

    An pale aura radiated from it, chilling Elijah to the bone, his earlier confidence evaporating into a cold dread.

    "Wh...what the hell...?" he gasped.

    Virgil grinned through bloody teeth. "I told ya...I don''t need the gun."

    The gunslinging specter unleashed a thunderous howl as the revolvers in its eight arms rose in unison. Then the barrage began.

    The last thing Elijah saw was a blinding flash of countless spectral bullets tearing through him, the sound of bones shattering, and the ground rushing up to meet him. Everything went black.

 Chapter 74: Sparks Before the Fire

    On the far side of the slums, a gentle rain started to fall. Fii took off her helmet and let the drops roll down her face. She looked around. No one was watching her. Everyone else was busy fighting or fleeing from the Adrenomancers and soldiers who''d stormed into the slums.

    Just one minute...

    She just needed just a minute to clear her head. She breathed in deeply. The rain tasted sweet. She wiped her brow and put her helmet back on. Then she returned to the chaos.

    Fii launched herself off a dumpster and bounced off a building, gaining height before she fell. Controlling the vector of gravity had gotten easier and easier as the hours went on. With the adrenaline pumping through her veins and the anxiety of the battle, she didn''t even have to think about it anymore. It was like second nature to her now.

    As she approached a nearby street, she spied a squad of soldiers closing in on a group of slummers huddled in the shadows.

    No need to strategize on how to deal with them.

    She pulled them through the air until they reached her elevation, then shifted their local gravity''s magnitude and vector to smash them into the side of a building. They crumpled to the ground in a mangled heap.

    The slummers scurried out of hiding and ran in different directions, some looked at the corpses with horror¡ªothers gave her the same terrified look.

    She flinched at the latter but pressed on.

    I''d be scared of someone who can do that too...no matter who they are.

    She flew towards the sounds of battle and skated across the sides of buildings and down the street to save energy. The rush of adrenaline helped focus her attention as she kept scanning for trouble. In the distance, a tall tower of smoke rose into the air from the site of an explosion. Flames licked the side of a nearby building.

    Fii slowed and crouched atop a rooftop to survey the area. From her vantage point, she spotted several pockets of resistance still holding out against the invaders.

    From their get-up and weapons, they were from the Ironclad Legion. Their fortress wasn''t too far from here either. It seemed like they were putting up a good fight, at least for now.

    She looked towards the epicenter of the fighting where she could make out the distinctive form of "Hammer" Kareem, towering over the rest. His massive bulk shone with a metallic sheen, his body transformed into living armor. He wielded a huge two-handed hammer that seemed to weigh nothing in his hands.

    As he swung it in wide arcs, the air around him shuddered with the force of a small explosion. Adrenomancers and soldiers alike fled in his wake, scrambling to avoid his devastating blows.

    The impact of his hammer left deep craters in the ground and sent debris flying in all directions. One soldier who was unlucky enough to get caught in the blast radius was tossed into the air like a ragdoll. He hit the ground with a sickening crunch, his body twisted and broken.

    As Fii watched in awe, Kareem took another swing at an advancing Adrenomancer. The man managed to dodge the blow but wasn''t fast enough to avoid the follow-up strike. The hammer smashed into his chest, caving it in with a resounding boom. His body flew back and smashed into a nearby shanty. It collapsed on top of him, burying him beneath the rubble.

    Fii gulped. Just one hit from that thing would crush her to a pulp. She shook her head and pushed the thought away. Right now, they should be on the same side. Fii gathered her courage and raced towards the fighting.

    She landed on the ground beside Kareem. His armored form towered over her as he pounded another Adrenomancer into the pavement. She winced as she heard the crunch of bone and flesh under the impact. She wanted to retch but swallowed the bile rising in her throat.

    Kareem''s head snapped towards her, his eyes gleaming with the same manic light that reflected off his metallic surface.

    "Axion! The hell you want?" he grunted as he slammed his hammer into another soldier. The man went flying and crashed into a nearby building.

    Fii flinched but didn''t back away.

    "I''m here to help!" she shouted over the noise of battle.

    Kareem gave her a once-over before grunting in approval. "All right, then. Get to it. Backfire vouched for your power last time, so you best not disappoint. Just don''t get in my way."

    He spun around and slammed his hammer into an incoming wave of soldiers. Fii jumped aside to avoid getting hit by the flying debris. Then she turned her attention to the advancing enemies.

    Her hands flew out in front of her as she began manipulating the gravity around them. They flailed about helplessly as their bodies became weightless and floated into the air. With a wave of her hand, she sent them flying off the battlefield.

    Kareem gave her an appreciative grunt before turning back to the fray. He charged forward and smashed through another group of soldiers with ease. His armored form was like a tank plowing through a row of paper targets.

    "A shame you decided to waste your time and ambition playing the role of a Super," Kareem shouted over his shoulder as he bashed in the skulls of several soldiers. "You would have ruled these streets had you been willing to ally with us from the start."

    Fii bit back a retort.

    She had to focus on keeping the enemy at bay for now. Her eyes darted around as she searched for more targets. A dozen soldiers approached from behind, their rifles trained on her. She raised a hand and they were pulled off their feet. They soared towards her before being slammed into the ground with enough force to crack the concrete. They lay there unmoving.

    Fii jumped into the air and shot herself towards another group of enemies. She somersaulted over them and landed in their midst. Before they could react, she extended both hands towards them and turned up the local gravity. The soldiers groaned and collapsed under the increased weight. They tried to lift their guns but couldn''t even move their arms.

    While she kept them there, the other Ironclad Legion fighters shot them from a distance.

    Fii grimaced at the bloodbath but kept going. She leapt through the air, bouncing from building to building as she used her powers to disrupt enemy formations and open holes in their defenses. All around her, the Ironclad Legion took advantage of her efforts and rushed into the gaps she created.

    However, her exhaustion began to creep in. As her adrenaline faded away, so did her control over her abilities. It wasn''t much longer before she misjudged her trajectory and lost control. She tumbled onto the pavement with a heavy thud. The landing jolted her brain, making her vision blurry.

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    She staggered to her feet and took a few unsteady steps forward. Everything spun around her. Her legs gave way beneath her and she collapsed again. Her chest heaved, trying to catch her breath. But the effort only made her cough and wheeze. Every muscle in her body ached.

    Gritting her teeth, she pushed herself upright.

    As stumbled towards a nearby wall and leaned against it for support, a soldier with a wicked scar running down his face appeared out of nowhere and swung his sword at her head. Fii stumbled back but the blade nicked her helmet. She managed to dodge the second strike but wasn''t fast enough to escape the third. It sliced into her shoulder and left a deep gash.

    She gasped in pain and fell to one knee.

    The soldier raised his sword high above his head and brought it down with full force. Fii threw herself sideways, narrowly avoiding the blade. She rolled away from him as he took another swing at her. She scrambled backwards until her back hit a wall. The soldier advanced on her slowly.

    I just need him to stop...

    Drawing upon her gravikinesis, Fii attempted to manipulate the gravity around the soldier. Her intent was to pin him to the ground, to immobilize him just long enough to make her escape or mount a counterattack. She visualized the gravitational pull intensifying around him, like an invisible hand pressing down with inexorable force.

    Her mind, clouded by pain and fatigue, struggled to mold the forces at her command. She pushed harder, her mental grasp slipping, until finally she let out a scream of frustration and exertion.

    But as she concentrated, something felt terribly wrong. The connection was too deep, too forceful.

    She opened her eyes just in time to see a visible distortion rippling around the soldier as the gravitational pull centered directly on him. His eyes widened in horror as the force increased exponentially, far beyond what Fii had aimed to conjure. The ground beneath him cracked, debris floating upwards as the localized gravity field turned chaotic.

    The soldier''s body contort unnaturally. The sound of cracking bones filled the air, followed by a wet tearing noise. His eyes widened in shock and pain as he began to crumple inwards, his limbs twisting unnaturally. The sword fell from his grasp, clattering against the rubble-strewn ground.

    He screamed in agony before his body gave way and imploded in on itself with a sickening crunch. Blood and viscera sprayed from his ruined form in all directions.

    Fii froze in horror at the sight. Pieces of gore splashed across her visor and clung to her suit. She stared blankly at the soldier''s crumpled remains lying before her.

    This wasn¡¯t what she intended¡ªnot like this.

    She looked down at her hands, which trembled uncontrollably. Tears welled in her eyes as she struggled to comprehend what had happened.

    As if triggered by her mistake, a massive wave of fatigue slammed into her. She could barely keep her eyes open as she sank to her knees. Everything went black and her body slumped forward onto the concrete.

    Voices and sounds drifted in and out of her mind...voices calling out her name...hands grabbing her arms...her body being lifted up...a dull thudding sound in the distance...then nothing but darkness.

    <hr>

    Mirage walked briskly beside Edith, keeping a close eye on the geneticist as they navigated through the labyrinthine streets of the slums. The woman seemed unfazed by her predicament, her expression neutral and calm as she took in the sights around her. She carried the reinforced briefcase that Mirage assumed contained her research materials, tightly gripped in her hand.

    She''s a tough one...maybe too tough.

    As they walked past a row of abandoned shanties, Mirage noted the subtle shift in Edith''s demeanor. Her pace quickened slightly, and her gaze shifted towards the alleys and rooftops around them. She seemed to be on edge.

    "Not thinking of trying to escape, are you? That would be unwise," Mirage warned. "You might be a genius in your field, but you''re no match for me."

    Edith shrugged. "I''m not stupid enough to try to outrun you. I''m just worried about the Gully Rats showing up."

    "Gully Rats?" Mirage asked, unfamiliar with the term.

    "The gang that runs these parts," Edith explained. "They''re known for their brutality and their obsession with territory. If they see us passing through their turf without permission, they won''t hesitate to attack us¡ªespecially at night. And since we''re both women..." She trailed off, leaving the implication unsaid.

    Mirage sighed inwardly. Just what she needed: another complication to deal with. "Well, we''re not crossing into their territory...are we?"

    She had a vague understanding of the layout of the slums, but she couldn''t be sure they were staying within the boundaries.

    "We just did. Why do you think I''m worried?" Edith replied. "I''d like to keep my virtue intact."

    Mirage''s gaze swept over their surroundings once more.

    "I''ll handle them if they come after us," she said with confidence. "I''ve dealt with far worse than a bunch of low-rent thugs."

    Edith gave her a dubious look but kept quiet. They continued walking in silence for several minutes. Mirage noticed that Edith''s grip on the briefcase tightened as they passed a series of dimly lit alleys. A few more steps and they emerged onto a wider street lined with dilapidated buildings. It was surprisingly empty.

    Mirage checked her GPS for the rendezvous point with the operative in charge of transporting Edith to Salvatore''s facility. It wasn''t too far away now. Just another few blocks.

    "This way," she said, gesturing for Edith to follow. They crossed the street and headed down a narrow alley between two tall structures. It was dark and cluttered with debris and garbage. Mirage pulled out a flashlight from her belt and clicked it on. She shone the beam ahead of them as they walked cautiously through the narrow passage.

    Suddenly, they heard a faint rustling sound from behind them. Mirage spun around and pointed the flashlight back towards the entrance of the alleyway. The light illuminated a small group of men standing there.

    They wore tattered clothes and carried makeshift weapons. Their faces were smeared with dirt and grime. One of them had an eyepatch and scars covering his left cheek. Another held a long pipe in his hand. The third man was slightly shorter than the others.

    The two stared at each other for a moment before the shorter man spoke up. "Well, what do we have here? A couple of pretty ladies all alone in the dark?" He sneered. "Funny place to be wandering around at night."

    The one with the eyepatch laughed and nudged the short man. "Looks like we hit the jackpot tonight, boys."

    Mirage raised an eyebrow.

    Three thugs. No one with firearms.

    She pulled out her silenced pistol and unceremoniously shot the three in quick succession. The muffled gunshots echoed through the alleyway. They fell to the ground without a sound. She stepped over their bodies and motioned for Edith to follow. The geneticist gave her a nervous look but did as she was told.

    They continued walking down the alley until they reached a parking garage at the end of the block. Mirage scanned the area before gesturing for Edith to proceed into the darkness ahead of them. The woman hesitated briefly but complied.

    An armored SUV awaited them in the garage''s interior. Its doors were open, and a man in an ill-fitting suit stood beside it. He wore sunglasses and had his hands tucked into the pockets of his jacket. He regarded Mirage with a stoic expression.

    "You''re late," he said curtly.

    "Had some issues along the way," Mirage replied. "Nothing I couldn''t handle."

    The man nodded and motioned for her to hand over Edith. Mirage led the geneticist towards the SUV and handed her off to the operative.

    "Good work," the man said. "Boss''ll be pleased. We''ll take things from here."

    He grabbed Edith''s arm roughly and shoved her into the backseat of the SUV. The door slammed shut behind her. Then he turned to face Mirage once more.

    "Boss has one more assignment for you before you''re done with this place," he said.

    Damn it. How much longer did she have to stay in this dump?

    "What is it?" she asked reluctantly.

    The man reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small tablet computer. He tapped on its screen a few times before handing it to Mirage.

    She looked at the tablet''s display and saw a map of the slums with a blinking red dot indicating her current location. There was a message icon flashing on the top right corner of the screen. She tapped on it and read the contents.

    Head to the Aether Clinic and extract all data you can find regarding Edith Weiss''s research. Once secured, eliminate all witnesses and destroy the facility.

    Mirage frowned as she stared at the screen.

    Shit. This was going to take a while¡­

 Chapter 75: Countermeasure

    Kasumi lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her injuries were healing well, and she was finally able to get up and walk around without feeling like she was going to pass out. Her body still ached all over, but she could manage. She hadn''t been in this much pain since...well, she didn''t want to think about that.

    Recently, she was bored out of her mind. She had been cooped up in this tiny room for what seemed like an eternity.

    The doctor who had patched her up, Edith Weiss, seemed like an odd one. It didn''t take long for Kasumi to realize that she was no slum native, but a metropolis exile like herself. It was clear from her bearing and demeanor that she came from a place of privilege and comfort. Yet she chose to live in the slums and practice medicine in the clinic, seemingly by choice.

    But there was more to the woman than met the eye.

    She had a certain air of mystery about her that Kasumi couldn''t quite put her finger on. There were times when she would catch Edith staring at her with a calculating gaze, as if she was trying to figure something out.

    Kasumi pushed the thought away and got out of bed. She stood up and stretched her limbs. Her muscles ached slightly from being inactive for so long. She moved over to the window and looked outside.

    The rain had stopped.

    Her room faced the back of the clinic. It was dark out, but the lights from the nearby buildings provided enough illumination to see. She could make out the silhouettes of several shanty buildings lining the alleyway behind the clinic. Beyond them lay the endless expanse of the slums.

    She sighed heavily and turned away from the window. Her eyes fell upon a pile of clothes that Edith had brought for her to wear while she recovered. She picked up the shirt and examined it. It was a simple black t-shirt with the words "Lions Rampant" emblazoned across the front in bold letters.

    Kasumi raised an eyebrow at the choice. Lions Rampant was a well-known company in the metropolis that produced popular rock music. She hadn''t known they sold merchandise outside the city.

    Well...I guess there are still things I don''t know about the slums.

    She put on the shirt and grabbed the pair of sweatpants from the pile as well. They were plain gray and fit snugly around her hips. Kasumi had never been one for baggy clothes, preferring form-fitting styles instead. She looked at herself in the mirror. The outfit wasn''t exactly flattering, but it would do for now. She ran her fingers through her hair to tidy up before stepping out of the room.

    The hallway outside was dimly lit. Kasumi walked slowly down the corridor until she reached the stairs leading to the ground floor. She descended carefully, mindful of her injuries. She reached the bottom step without incident and found herself in a small lobby area. The walls were bare except for a framed painting hanging above a desk. It depicted a mountain scene with snowcapped peaks towering over lush forests.

    At the desk sat a woman named Sheri, one of the nurses who attended to her. She wore scrubs and a lab coat and had long brown hair pulled back into a ponytail. She looked up from her paperwork when she noticed Kasumi approaching.

    "You''re finally out of bed," Sheri remarked with a smile. "Feeling better?"

    "I''m alive." Kasumi shrugged. "Can''t complain too much about that."

    Sheri laughed lightly. "Well, that''s a start." She motioned for Kasumi to follow her down another hallway. "Come on, let''s get you something to eat."

    They walked through the clinic until they reached the kitchen. It was small but well-stocked. Sheri gestured for Kasumi to take a seat at one of the tables while she rummaged around in the cabinets. After a moment she emerged with a tray containing a bowl of soup and some bread. She placed the tray in front of Kasumi before sitting across from her.

    "Sorry if it isn''t much," Sheri said apologetically. "I''m not exactly an expert chef."

    Kasumi shrugged and took a spoonful of soup. It tasted bland but wasn''t terrible. She finished the meal quickly and set the tray aside. Sheri watched her silently as she ate. Kasumi could tell she wanted to ask something but didn''t know how to approach the subject.

    "So...you''re Cobra, right?" Sheri finally said after a long pause. "The leader of the Neon Vipers?"

    Kasumi met her gaze and nodded. "That''s right."

    Sheri hesitated before continuing. "Do you mind if I ask...what happened to you?"

    "I lost," Kasumi said flatly. She saw no reason to hide the truth from Sheri. The nurse had treated her injuries and tended to her while she was bedridden. There was nothing left to hide. "I underestimated my opponent and paid the price for it."

    Sheri raised an eyebrow. "So who beat you up so badly?"

    Kasumi looked away. "It doesn''t matter."

    It fucking did.

    "Reverb" Ray... The Echo Syndicate had a Metahuman in their ranks. Kasumi thought bitterly about her defeat at his hands.

    Even after three years living in the slums, she never knew that a few metahumans were scattered about. Of course they would gravitate towards gangs, but how many more lurked in the shadows?

    She figured Axion was the only Meta within the slums...until now.

    Speaking of Axion...The last thing Kasumi expected to stumble across while recovering was Axion''s true identity¡ªa slum girl named Fii.

    Kasumi leaned back in her chair and stared at the ceiling.

    A fucking kid. A brat from the slums...with superpowers...had beaten her.

    Not just beaten her, but caused her whole damn gang to lose face and their territory. That was bad enough on its own. The worst part was having to rely on Salvatore''s employment to keep herself afloat. It galled her to no end to have to work for a syndicate as a glorified bodyguard and distributor. But she had no choice.

    Sure, their initial deal with the Shiver drug trade provided enough money to get by...but when that fizzled out after Axion interfered, it left Kasumi in a tight spot. She''d gone from having power and prestige to being little more than a thug-for-hire.

    Fucking humiliation...it stung...deeply.

    Kasumi closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

    It didn''t help that Kenzo became friends with the little brat. Kenzo...of all people. That was probably why he was insistent on Kasumi parting ways with Salvatore''s plans. Not that she would listen. She had made her bed; now she had to lie in it. The only thing left to do was make the most of her situation.

    "Are you okay?" Sheri asked, breaking the silence. "You seem distracted."

    Kasumi snapped back to reality and looked at Sheri. She forced a smile onto her face. "I''m fine," she lied. "Just thinking about things."

    Sheri nodded but didn''t seem convinced. She stood up and grabbed the tray with Kasumi''s empty bowl. "Well, if you need anything else let me know." She turned around and headed towards the sink to wash the dishes.

    Kasumi watched her go before standing up from the table. She stretched her arms above her head and winced slightly as her muscles tightened.

    "Hey," she called out to Sheri. The nurse turned around to face her. "The girl called Fii...do you know what she does?"

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    Sheri hesitated for a moment before answering while putting away the clean dishes. "She already told me that you found out who she was..."

    "So you did know...," Kasumi replied. "Let me guess. Edith found her first and took her under her wing. Instilled that bullshit superhero ethos in her."

    Sheri didn''t reply. She just kept cleaning up the kitchen.

    Kasumi sighed heavily. "And you''re fine with it? The whole ''save the slums'' bit? Or are you under her spell too?"

    "It''s not like that...," Sheri said softly. "I think Fii is a good kid who wants to help people."

    "Bullshit," Kasumi snapped. "No one does anything for free in this place. Everyone has an angle. She wants something. People always do."

    Sheri shrugged. "Maybe she does. But I don''t think it''s anything sinister. I''ve known Fii for a while now, and she''s never been anything but kind and considerate towards others." She paused before adding: "It''s refreshing."

    Kasumi frowned. Sheri didn''t seem like the naive type. But maybe she was being sincere. It was hard to tell with people these days. Everyone always had their guard up, trying to hide their true intentions. She''d gotten used to it during her time living in the metropolis. The slums were no different in that regard. The only difference was how overtly hostile people could be here.

    If you didn''t watch your back every minute of every day, you could easily find yourself at the bottom of the gutter.

    "So what''s your angle then?" Kasumi asked after a moment. "What do you get out of helping her?"

    Sheri stopped cleaning and turned around to face Kasumi again. "Nothing," she replied simply. "I help people because I want to. Because I believe in doing the right thing."

    Kasumi scoffed. "That''s not a luxury most people can afford. Not in this place."

    "It doesn''t have to be like that," Sheri countered. "We can change things for the better."

    "You''re kidding yourself if you think you can make a difference," Kasumi retorted. "This place is fucked beyond repair."

    She crossed her arms over her chest. "And even if you could fix it, why bother? All you''ll do is draw attention from the metropolis. People like you get crushed underfoot in the process."

    Sheri shook her head sadly. "That''s a pessimistic outlook."

    "It''s realistic," Kasumi corrected. "And I don''t see any reason to sugarcoat things. This world isn''t kind to dreamers."

    "I guess we''ll have to agree to disagree then," Sheri said before turning back to her task. "Anyway, I need to finish cleaning up before Edith gets back. You should probably get some rest."

    Kasumi watched as she continued working without another word. After a few moments, she sighed heavily and turned around to leave the kitchen. She needed to clear her head and then figure out her next move.

    She headed back towards her room. Once there, she lay down on her bed and stared at the ceiling once again. Her mind drifted to thoughts of Fii. What was the girl''s endgame? There had to be something more to her actions than simple altruism. It didn''t add up otherwise. And what about Edith? Kasumi was sure there was something going on between them. Something deeper than just friendship. But what? And how did it relate to Axion''s sudden emergence?

    So many questions...and so few answers...

    Kasumi closed her eyes and tried to relax. There was nothing she could do at the moment.

    <hr>

    Kasumi awoke to a series of loud noises coming from the floor below. She sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes groggily. It felt like she only napped for an hour¡ªbut what woke her up?

    She slowly stood up and crept over to the door. She opened it a crack and peeked outside. The hallway was empty. But there were muffled voices coming from downstairs.

    It sounded like Sheri was arguing with someone. Kasumi strained to make out the conversation. After a moment, she heard the sound of something heavy hitting the ground. Then footsteps heading towards the stairs.

    Shit. What was going on?

    She slipped out of her room and crept towards the stairwell. As she reached the top step, she caught a glimpse of Sheri lying on the floor below. Her eyes were closed and her face was bruised. A pool of blood formed beneath her head.

    No sign of her attacker.

    Kasumi rushed down the stairs and knelt beside Sheri. She placed two fingers against her neck and felt a faint pulse. Sheri was still alive. But she needed medical attention. Now.

    Kasumi looked around frantically. Where was Edith? And where the hell was that Fii girl?

    She spotted what looked like a medical storage room behind the main counter. She ran over to it and flung open the door. Inside was a small supply of basic medical supplies. She grabbed several items and hurried back to Sheri''s side. She quickly tended to the woman''s wounds as best she could before carrying her upstairs to safety. Once inside her room, she laid Sheri on the bed and checked her pulse again.

    It was weak but steady.

    Kasumi breathed a sigh of relief. Sheri would survive. But who attacked her?

    She headed back downstairs to investigate further. The lobby area was deserted. There was no sign of anyone else except for the pool of blood where Sheri had been attacked.

    The locked door that led to the basement level of the clinic had been pried open. Kasumi hesitated briefly before descending into the darkness below. She crept cautiously down the steps until she reached the bottom.

    A dim light illuminated the corridor ahead. She crept forward and peered around the corner. The corridor led to a large room filled with lab equipment and various machines. It looked like some kind of laboratory or medical facility.

    Hunched over a desk near the back wall was...Mirage?

    Kasumi blinked several times to make sure she wasn''t hallucinating. Sure enough, Mirage was sitting at a desk surrounded by computer monitors and other electronics.

    The Adrenomancer glanced up from her work and caught sight of Kasumi. Her eyes widened slightly in surprise before narrowing again. She rose from her chair and strode towards the doorway where Kasumi stood.

    "Cobra," she said coldly. "I didn''t realize this was the place you were holed up in."

    "I could say the same thing about you," Kasumi replied coolly. "What are you doing here?"

    Mirage raised an eyebrow. "It''s no longer your business. The deal with Salvatore is off." She shrugged. "You had your chance. It''s too bad things went south. You let the Shiver facility get destroyed by a measly gang."

    Kasumi bristled at the insult but managed to keep her temper in check. "So you''re just going to ignore me?"

    "You''re not worth my time," Mirage replied curtly. "Now get lost before I change my mind."

    Kasumi narrowed her eyes. "Not until I get some answers."

    Mirage scoffed. "What makes you think I''ll tell you anything?"

    "I''m guessing you''re here to snoop around a doctor''s research...the one who saved my life. What interest would Salvatore have with someone like her? Or this clinic for that matter?" Kasumi narrowed her eyes as she continued. "What are you after?"

    "Salvatore didn''t say..." Mirage smirked and shrugged. "And I don''t recall anyone asking."

    Kasumi clenched her fists tightly. She could feel her blood boiling beneath the surface. This woman had no idea who she was dealing with.

    Mirage laughed softly at Kasumi''s frustration. "If you want to fight, then let''s do it already. Otherwise, get out of my way. I''m busy." She turned away from Kasumi and began walking back towards the desk.

    Kasumi wasn''t about to let this go.

    "This reminds me. Where are your other Adrenomancer friends? Oh yeah, I think they''re all dead."

    Mirage stopped abruptly and spun around to face Kasumi once more. Her eyes flashed dangerously as she glared at the former gang leader. "You want to die that badly?" She growled.

    Kasumi grinned wickedly. "I heard from my boyfriend that he killed two of them while rescuing me¡ªVoltaire and Havoc. Told me how weak they were..." She chuckled softly. "Seems like you lot are nothing but talk."

    Mirage snarked and reached for her pistol holstered at her hip.

    Kasumi drew a scalpel she had kept hidden in her sweatpants and threw it at Mirage''s throat.

    The blade sailed through the air and pierced the side of the Adrenomancer''s neck, sinking deep into her flesh. She let out a startled gasp and fell backwards onto the floor.

    Not missing a beat, Kasumi lunged forward and kicked Mirage''s gun away from her grasp. Then she grabbed hold of the woman''s hair and yanked her head upwards. She pressed the scalpel against Mirage''s throat and applied pressure.

    "Now," Kasumi said coldly. "Start talking."

    Mirage glared at Kasumi with hate-filled eyes. "You...bitch..." She choked out. "I''ll kill you..."

    Kasumi tightened her grip on Mirage''s hair and pulled harder. "Shut up and start talking or I''ll slit your throat."

    Mirage spat in Kasumi''s face. "Go...to...hell!"

    Kasumi wiped away the spittle and smiled darkly. "Fine...have it your way."

    She drew back the scalpel and brought it down hard across Mirage''s throat. The blade sliced cleanly through the flesh and tendons, severing the woman''s carotid artery. Blood spurted out in a torrent from the wound as Mirage gurgled her last breath. Her eyes rolled back into her skull as she died.

    The Adrenomancer''s harness continued to pump a lethal cocktail of drugs into Mirage''s veins for a few moments before cutting out.

    Kasumi let go of Mirage''s hair and stood over the corpse. She stared at it for a moment before wiping her bloody hand across her face.

    "Well...that was easy enough," she muttered under her breath. "Guess I''ll see what she was snooping around for..."

    A haze enveloped the room, blanketing everything in fog.

    Startled, Kasumi covered her mouth with her shirt, but the smell of chemicals overwhelmed her senses.

    She started to gag and cough uncontrollably. She tried to run towards the stairs leading back up to the ground level...but stumbled as dizziness overtook her. The edges of her vision darkened until she fell unconscious.

    Helix''s voice reverberated through the darkness:

    [Countermeasures deployed. Containment activated. Surveillance and cyber jammers online¡­]

 Chapter 76: Eve of Finality

    The dregs of unconsciousness held her mind like an invisible mire, but a familiar voice seemed to call out to her through the murk.

    "Fii! Wake up!" Quinn shook her.

    Fii stirred and let out a weak groan as she struggled to sit up. The metallic stench of blood still cloyed in her nose. Her helmet displayed several errors, indicating the helmet had lost connectivity with the rest of her suit. Her suit was battered and torn in several places, the nanoweave frayed. Blood still trickled down her wounded shoulder.

    The last thing she remembered was the horror at what she''d done, the exhaustion crashing over her. How long had she been out? How far had she been moved?

    Quinn placed his hands on her shoulders to steady her. "Can you hear me? How are you feeling?"

    She looked up at him with glassy eyes and nodded faintly. "Q...what happened?" Fii asked groggily.

    He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly and averted his gaze. "...You kinda imploded that guy. Guess you didn''t mean to do that... did you?"

    "N...no," Fii stammered. "I wanted him to be stuck to the ground but¡ª"

    "It''s okay, it''s okay. Don''t get lost in the static. I''m here." Quinn pulled her into a tight embrace. "I got you...you''re okay."

    He placed his forehead against hers and remained silent for several moments while Fii''s breathing slowed. Her trembling stopped.

    "You did good. That was kinda badass back there," he continued gently as he squeezed her again. "Let''s get you patched up. Can''t have my girlfriend dying on me."

    Quinn pulled back slightly. "...I didn''t mean girlfriend like an actual relationship...I meant like...the...nevermind." He scratched the back of his head again. "Just...let''s get you patched."

    He retrieved a pouch of gauze from his satchel and began wrapping the wound on her shoulder. She winced slightly as he worked, but didn''t complain.

    Once the dressing was in place, he helped her to her feet. Fii stood unsteadily at first, her legs shaking slightly under her own weight. Quinn gripped her firmly by the elbow, supporting her until she regained her balance.

    "Take a second...the world''s not going anywhere. Breathe," Quinn instructed softly. "Don''t want you to pass out again."

    "What about you? How''d you get here?" Fii asked.

    "Same way I always do. By foot," he responded as if it were obvious. "I ran like hell through the alleys and even went through the Hollow at one point. Been trying to keep hidden so far. I''ve had some close calls...but no one''s caught me yet. Not too worried though. I got this." He brandished a submachine gun with a foregrip. "Stole it from a dead soldier."

    "You only have one good eye," Fii pointed out. "You gonna be able to hit anything?"

    Quinn winked. "You''re lucky you''re cute...and injured."

    Fii smiled slightly at his enthusiasm. He certainly sounded confident...but there was still a hint of worry behind his eyes. She scanned the surroundings, noting that they seemed to be in the same section of the slums where she''d lost consciousness.

    "How long was I out for?" she asked.

    "Half hour, I think...it''s hard to tell. Things got nuts out here," Quinn admitted. "You...you look pretty awful, by the way."

    "You sure know how to sweet talk a girl," Fii said wryly. "You don''t look so great yourself."

    She craned her head to inspect the state of her cyber-suit. Her knees, shins and forearms had deep scrapes in them from the rubble and pavement she''d hit. Her helmet visor flickered on and off; it''d take some repairs before she could use its system overlays again. But none of her injuries were serious. She''d recover soon enough.

    "I''m good to go back out and help." She stretched her back with a slight hiss of pain. She might feel sore for the next couple of weeks... but that would fade in time too.

    Quinn opened his mouth to protest but shut it immediately. Instead, he merely sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. He let her lean on him. "I can tell you''re going to keep going one way or another, so I won''t stop you."

    As they walked, he kept his arm around her. Fii would''ve pushed away from his overprotective embrace had her mind been clear. But between the fatigue and shock from what had happened with the soldier, she found herself leaning into him instead. His presence was comforting, despite his lame jokes and attempts to lighten the mood.

    "Where''s Virgil?" she asked quietly.

    "He and Kenzo have been keeping them busy in the main plaza...or whatever that used to be. Things have settled a bit after you...uh... took care of those assholes back there."

    They wandered towards the street where Kareem and his Ironclad Legion crew had fought. There was still gunfire and explosions going off around the perimeter, but the overall fighting seemed to have died down considerably from what she recalled before she lost consciousness.

    Kareem was barking orders at them as he directed their movement.

    As the two approached, the bulky man spotted them. He leaned against his massive hammer with a grimace, his metallic form bore several scratches and dents. Kareem tilted his chin upwards in a challenging gesture as his eyes met theirs.

    "Axion...Was wondering where you went off to. Thought you got cold feet, after watching you cause that shit," he grumbled as he turned his attention to Quinn. "You...I''ve seen you a few times before. This ain''t no place for a tinkertot like yourself, kid. Get your ass somewhere safe."

    Quinn bristled at the man''s harsh words. "Don''t worry about me," he snapped. "I know what I''m doing."

    "Hrmph. For a tinkertot, you''re brighter than a busted bulb. Look, the slums need people like you in order to make the stuff I can''t fight with," Kareem pressed. "Get off the streets...for your own damn sake. We''ve got this under control."

    Kareem pointed his finger at a nearby building. "Get going, kid."

    "Fuck off," Quinn spat as he helped Fii limp past Kareem. "I''m not going anywhere."

    "Suit yourself...I''m not going to waste my breath anymore." The metallic man hefted his weapon and marched away to regroup with his gang.

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

    Fii leaned on Quinn as she stumbled forward. Every muscle in her body screamed for rest, but she didn''t have the luxury. She still had work to do.

    For now, she used her gravikinesis to make herself lighter so she didn''t have to strain herself as much. It took some concentration on her part, but at least she could keep pace.

    They advanced through the darkened streets towards the sounds of gunfire in the distance. After reaching the plaza, she spotted Virgil and Kenzo sitting on top of a pile of rubble near a blown out fountain.

    Kenzo appeared exhausted. Virgil looked like he had a fight with a boulder and lost. His hands and face were cut in numerous places, and he held a stained cloth against his nose. His trench coat and clothing bore several rips and tears. Blood smeared the ground under the slab he sat on. Kenzo sported several bruises but seemed to have suffered fewer wounds than Virgil.

    Fii pushed away from Quinn and broke into a limping run towards them.

    Virgil lifted his head wearily as she approached and greeted her with a slight nod.

    "Good to see you back on your feet," he muttered through cracked lips.

    He looked at Quinn for a second with a raised eyebrow, but said nothing else. The faintest of smirks appeared at the corners of his mouth.

    "Didn''t get ya too bad, I''m hoping," Fii asked as she noticed Virgil''s nose was a bit crooked and likely broken.

    "Just a few more scars for the collection. Nothing I won''t recover from," he replied in a slightly muffled tone. "Those assholes backed off a few minutes ago after Kenzo here really let ''em have it...not like there are many left at this point. Between us and the Legion, we should be able to finish them off after they''re corralled a bit."

    Kenzo shook his head and sighed deeply. "They''ve still got two of those Bradleys with the rocket launchers...and no one else but us could deal with those things. Once we deal with what''s left out here...I''m done. I''m finished."

    "You can leave those two to me," Fii assured them as she took a breath. "Just say when."

    Virgil made a noise akin to a snort and spat a mixture of blood and saliva into the dust. "So be it, kid... if you''ve still got some juice in ya. Kareem should be giving out the signal when they''ve got all their flanks covered...hopefully. For now, take a breather. The area''s secured."

    As he spoke, Kenzo crawled off the slab and retrieved his sword from the rubble below. He carefully slid the blade into the sheath with a deep breath.

    Fii took a seat beside him and massaged her sore calves and thighs. The fatigue drained from her, bit by bit.

    Kenzo ran his hand through his sweat-damp hair before turning towards her with a wide grin.

    "A bit of good news for ya," he remarked. "I managed to finish a song earlier this week. Came to me real quick... though it took a few days of chipping away at the lyrics. Figured it would make sense after everything that''s happened so far. Come over to the tower and I''ll play it for you. You might like it."

    "Yaaay," Fii deadpanned.

    While she would normally be happy to hear him talk about his music, today she found her patience and humor at an all-time low.

    "Sounds good," she remarked softly.

    Kenzo cocked his head slightly at her uncharacteristic tone and offered a sympathetic smile.

    "Well...this will all be over soon." His words sounded more like an affirmation to himself rather than to her. "Anyways, I''m pretty proud of this song. It''s a token of thanks for what you''ve done for the people...even if they won''t understand why...at least not yet. It''s also a personal thanks for being understanding...with Kasumi, back at the clinic. Thanks for that."

    Fii blinked. That sounded like he wrote a song about her...

    "Huh? Is the song about me?" she asked.

    "Yea. I did mention it a while back that I''d write one about you. Didn''t I?"

    She couldn''t recall exactly when he''d mentioned that to her...maybe months ago? It was hard to tell at this point. Too much had happened in such a short time frame.

    But the idea that she''d have a song about herself composed by Kenzo and his band made her heart flutter with pride. She couldn''t help but crack a slight smile beneath her helmet.

    "Can''t wait to hear it then," she replied.

    "Okay, good. So long as you''ll like it," he said cheerfully as he stretched his back. He flinched and hissed a bit as his hand went to a bruise on his ribs. He managed a tight smile regardless. "...How you holding up?"

    She pushed herself to her feet with a pained grunt. Her fatigue had subsided enough to go on. "...Ready when you guys are."

    <hr>

    By the time they left the plaza, Fii found the dregs of the Ironclad Legion scattered throughout the neighborhood. Most had gone off in small groups of five or six to watch over certain sections. Those who remained looked haggard and beaten up. All of them gave Fii a passing glance.

    Kareem waved his group over as they approached. The iron-skinned leader seemed as fearsome as ever. Several metal spikes pierced the streets in his wake as if he''d been dancing through a minefield. Blood smeared his metal fists.

    "Last ones...don''t think they''ll give up...even if their buddies are getting their asses beat," Kareem commented with a grunt. "You wanna go and take them out or are you too tired? Because if not..." Kareem clenched his fists.

    Virgil turned towards Fii. "Hope you''ve still got enough gas in the tank, kid. Need you to pick up where we left off...this is the last leg of this mess." He coughed dryly into his fist and wiped his mouth on his sleeve. "They''re dug in real deep over by the wall. You sure you can do this?"

    Fii nodded slowly as she cracked her neck. "I''ll make it happen."

    Quinn stood next to her and gently squeezed her shoulder. "Hey...take care of yourself. Don''t...don''t be reckless. Okay?"

    "No promises," Fii replied with a hint of amusement.

    She steeled herself before moving forward. Her legs carried her at a brisk pace as she scanned the streets ahead for signs of combat. Sure enough, several bursts of gunfire came from the end of a side street.

    Fii drew closer to the source and peered around the corner.

    A large group of soldiers and another dozen Adrenomancers hunkered behind a row of overturned vehicles for cover. Bullets sprayed from their rifles in short bursts. The two remaining Bradley Fighting Vehicles parked nearby. One fired a rocket at an adjacent building. The explosion sent chunks of debris flying into the air. The other vehicle opened fire on something out of sight.

    They''d pinned a handful of Kareem''s fighters down in a ruined structure on the opposite side of the road. Two men slumped against the wall. Another lay motionless on the ground, clutching his chest.

    Time to move.

    Fii crouched low and crept forward until she reached the back of a car across the street. She raised her hand towards the closest Bradley and concentrated.

    Suddenly, both armored vehicles launched into the air before she could activate her gravikinesis. They soared upwards and arced back towards the ground. A massive shockwave ripped through the street as they collided with the pavement in a deafening roar. The resulting impact shook the ground beneath her feet and sent shrapnel flying in all directions.

    What the?!...

    As if taking that as their cue, Kareem and his men charged into the fray¡ªfollowed closely by Virgil and Kenzo.

    Kenzo reached her position first and patted her uninjured shoulder. "Good job. I think we got it from here. Take a breather."

    "That...wasn''t me," Fii muttered.

    Then, one by one, the enemy combatants began to levitate into the air as if held aloft by invisible strings. They thrashed wildly, kicking and struggling to no avail.

    Virgil and the others stopped what they were doing and stared up at the sky.

    "That''s not you either?" Kenzo asked as he followed their gaze.

    Fii shook her head. "No...I didn''t do that either."

    As they looked on, a lone figure descended from the clouds as the morning sun crested over the horizon. He wore a brilliant white and blue bodysuit with a gilded cape flowing behind him. A shield bearing the symbol of Metropolis adorned his chest. His face was obscured by a helmet similar to Fii''s own, though far more advanced.

    Debris lifted off the ground and hovered around him in a swirling vortex.

    Fii''s eyes widened in awe as she realized who he was.

    There was only one person in the world who wore that distinctive outfit and possessed such an extraordinary power¡ªPrime, leader of the Ultimate Guardians.

    The strongest Super.

    She''d never seen him in person before. But there was no mistaking his identity. The sheer power radiating from him made her knees tremble. He might as well have been a god in human form¡ªand he was here...to help them?

 Chapter 77: Prime

    Fii had always imagined Prime as a beacon of hope, the sort of hero you''d want on your side in a crisis.

    She gaped at the powerful Super hovering above the road. His armored suit, a sleek design of white and blue, seemed to shimmer in the morning light. His cape rippled in the wind behind him. The most prominent feature of his outfit was the golden emblem on his chest¡ªa shield bearing the sigil of the Metropolis. The debris swirling around him danced like satellites caught in the gravity of a planet.

    Prime. Leader of the Ultimate Guardians.

    It was said he possessed unmatched power and had single-handedly stopped more threats to humanity than anyone else alive. Fii never believed she''d see him in person. But here he was...in the slums...

    She had asked Edith about Prime''s power before. According to her, he could move objects with his mind¡ªTelekinesis, she called it. From what Fii could gather, Prime''s Telekinesis seemed similar to her gravikinesis. They both could effectively move things around, but unlike Fii''s manipulation of gravity, Edith described Prime''s ability as him manipulating quantum fields to entangle matter remotely.

    Something about...quantum tagging, maybe?

    She hadn''t quite understood all the details back then, and to be honest, the science made her head spin. She did recall one detail though: he was even more powerful than she was. Though his abilities manifested differently, he could use his power at a greater scale than her own.

    Prime landed gently on the battered street, the debris settling around him as if obeying an unspoken command. The morning light cast an almost halo-like glow around his figure.

    His helmeted gaze swept over the scene¡ªover the slum dwellers, the ragtag gang members, and the crumbled buildings. The LED eyes of his visor locked onto Fii for a moment before moving on. Fii didn''t move a muscle. She held her breath until he finally turned away. His head swiveled slowly as he assessed the situation.

    The wind seemed to die down around them.

    "Fear not," Prime''s voice boomed, modulated by his helmet to resonate deeply, echoing across the streets. "The Ultimate Guardians have not forgotten you."

    His words, meant to reassure, felt heavy with the promise of oversight rather than assistance. Fii felt a chill run down her spine. She had heard stories of how Prime operated in the Metropolis¡ªefficient, cold, and indifferent. He did what was needed to maintain order...and little else.

    Yet she couldn''t help but marvel at his presence. How could anyone not be in awe?

    Prime turned his attention to the enemy combatants still suspended mid-air, their expressions a mix of terror and confusion. With a mere snap of his fingers, their bodies twisted and contorted like laundry wrung dry.

    Even the Adrenomancers, whose bodies were almost as as resilient as any Super''s, met the same fate. Their screams rose to an ear-splitting crescendo before cutting off abruptly.

    Blood sprayed from their writhing forms before they hung limp and lifeless. In a blink, their bodies were reduced to torn chunks. The corpses tumbled through the air in a grotesque display before splattering across the street.

    A hush fell over the crowd as everyone stared wide-eyed at Prime. He dusted his hands off and adjusted his gloves before folding them behind his back.

    "The slums are safe now," Prime declared, his tone sounding more like a decree than a reassurance. "Most of the threats have been dealt with."

    Fii tried to suppress a shudder.

    Beside her, Kenzo kept his hand on his sword hilt but didn''t draw it. He stared at Prime with wary eyes. He whispered, "Looks like the cavalry¡¯s here, but who¡¯s going to save us from the savior?"

    Kareem whistled low and long as he leaned on his massive hammer. "Wow...that''s one way to finish this mess." He paused to cough harshly before continuing. "I''ve heard of you...not like I need an introduction. Never expected to see you here though. Seems kind of weird for the head honcho to come all the way out here...didn''t know we were worth the trouble."

    Prime tilted his head ever so slightly at the Ironclad Legion sub-leader. His LED eyes narrowed into slits. "You doubt our sincerity?"

    "Well...not saying that," Kareem shot back. "It''s just that...you guys never really seem to give a damn about what happens out here...until now. Funny timing."

    Prime said nothing. He merely stood there in silence as he waited for Kareem to continue. His silence was unnerving. Fii didn''t think a single sentence could sound so intimidating.

    Virgil and Quinn moved to stand by Fii''s side. They exchanged glances but kept their mouths shut.

    Kareem held his hands up defensively. "Look...I''m not gonna lie and say I''m not happy to see you here...not that you''re doing much besides cleaning up the mess after we did most of the heavy lifting. We appreciate your help though...so...thanks?" He gave Prime a mock salute. "Guess you got everything handled from here?"

    Prime turned away from Kareem and gazed at the assembled crowd of slum dwellers. Some looked on with wary expressions while others watched in fearful silence.

    Fii shifted uncomfortably. Her gut told her something wasn''t right. She felt like a child standing before a stern teacher waiting to be reprimanded¡ªworse than what Virgil usually gave her. Prime''s demeanor unsettled her even more. She couldn''t read him. But she had a feeling he wasn''t here just to help. Not with the way he acted so casually about...all of this.

    "This," Prime gestured vaguely to the scene around him, "is unfortunate...an avoidable tragedy. While the culprits have been dealt with, this...recent event...has exposed a... problem." His voice held no trace of regret or sympathy. He might as well have been talking about the weather.

    Kareem scowled. "A problem?" He crossed his arms over his chest and waited for Prime to elaborate.

    "An oversight," Prime clarified. "Metropolis has been lax in its governance over the slums. Until now, we''ve overlooked your...distasteful proclivities and mischief. But no longer. Your community cannot continue to exist without order...without supervision. Metropolis will ensure you are...regulated."

    "I don''t like the sound of that," Kenzo remarked under his breath.

    Kareem stared at Prime incredulously. "...What?" He leaned on his massive hammer for support. "Regulated? The hell you talking about?"

    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Suddenly, his metallic body lifted off the ground and slowly levitated towards Prime until he hovered above the Super.

    "Hnngrrgh! Hey! Put me down!" Kareem shouted as he squirmed helplessly. He grabbed at the air as if trying to find purchase.

    Prime stood tall and stoic with his hands clasped behind his back as he brought Kareem closer to eye level. "For too long you and the other gangs had freedom to do as you please," he stated calmly. "You have taken advantage of our leniency. That ends today."

    "Hey...we haven''t done anything wrong! We were only defending ourselves...we''re not hurting anyone here...well...no one who doesn''t deserve it, at least!" Kareem snapped.

    Prime shook his head slowly. "Denial is futile. We have seen everything...all your criminal activities...all your schemes. Your little turf wars. Your smuggling rings. Your human trafficking...every...single...one."

    He raised his hand as if to examine his nails before clenching his fist tight.

    A deep groan escaped Kareem''s mouth. The sound of metal buckling echoed across the street. Blood trickled from the corners of his mouth. He twisted and writhed in pain. His breath came in short gasps.

    "F-Fuck! S-Shoot him!" Kareem growled through gritted teeth. "K-Kill him...g-get this...bastard!"

    The Ironclad Legion gangsters quickly grabbed the discarded firearms lying on the ground. They took aim at Prime and opened fire.

    Bullets stopped mid-air as Prime casually raised his other hand.

    He flicked his wrist lazily. The weapons flew out of their owners'' grasps before they could fire another shot. The guns hovered over the street for a second before snapping into pieces. Fragments rained onto the pavement.

    Several of the gang members fled in terror. Others stayed rooted to the spot in shock.

    Virgil tapped Fii and Kenzo''s shoulders and whispered, "We need to leave. Now." He started backing away slowly from the scene. "Things are about to get ugly."

    "What do we do?" Fii whispered back.

    Prime snapped his fingers again. A handful of Ironclad Legion members¡ªthe ones who remained¡ªwere telekinetically ripped apart on the spot. Bloody chunks of meat splattered onto the road. Their screams cut short.

    Kareem''s limbs began to stretch and contort at unnatural angles as he was twisted like a wet towel. The pain in his voice rose to an agonized wail. His body bent and warped until it resembled a human pretzel. He gasped one last time before his head exploded in a spray of gore and metal shards.

    His lifeless remains hung limply in the air above Prime.

    Virgil turned away from the scene and ushered the two of them towards an alley. "Run! Just...fucking run!"

    Quinn had already bolted. Kenzo didn''t need to be told twice.

    Fii stared at the battered street, wide-eyed with disbelief. What the hell just happened?...How did things turn so bad so fast?...Why was Prime doing this? Wasn''t he supposed to protect people?...Aren''t heroes supposed to save everyone?...What the hell is happening?!

    "Get the hell out of here," Virgil urged Fii. "Don''t draw attention to yourself...and don''t interfere. You can''t save everyone...not with this one." He grabbed her shoulders and spun her around before shoving her forward. "Go!"

    Suddenly, she saw Virgil get ripped away from her. He flew back towards Prime''s position and hovered in midair next to Kareem''s body. His arms were forced behind his back and his legs were clamped together.

    "Virgil!" Fii cried. Her heart leapt into her throat.

    She ran towards him as fast as she could. Before she could reach him, something slammed into her side with enough force to knock her off her feet. She landed hard on the pavement. The impact jarred her already sore ribs.

    As she tried to stand up, she was lifted off the ground and thrown across the street. She rolled across the pavement until she crashed into the wall of a nearby building. A scream tore itself from her throat as her injured shoulder hit first. She collapsed onto her side in a heap.

    Prime''s cold voice rang out above the sound of her own ragged breathing. "Stay where you are. Do not move."

    Her muscles went rigid. She tried to stand up again, but her body refused to cooperate. All she could do was watch as Prime levitated Virgil closer.

    "Virgil Maddox," Prime said coolly. "So we meet again...not under the circumstances I hoped for."

    Virgil stared back at Prime with defiant eyes. "I''d say it''s a pleasure...but it ain''t." He glanced over at Fii. "Leave her out of this...whatever this is. She''s just a kid. Let her go."

    Prime followed his gaze and tilted his head ever so slightly in Fii''s direction. His LED eyes seemed to glow brighter as he scrutinized her.

    "I''ll have several questions to ask you later...once I''m finished here." Prime turned back to face Virgil. "It seems like your exile has...complicated matters...for both of us. A shame. You could''ve done great things...if only you had chosen to work for the greater good."

    Virgil snorted. "That ain''t me...and you know it."

    "That is unfortunate," Prime remarked coldly. "Then again...I didn''t expect anything less from you...not after everything that''s happened."

    "Spare me the bullshit," Virgil spat. "Let the kid go. She doesn''t need to be a part of this. Let her go home."

    Prime paused for a moment as if considering Virgil''s words. He turned towards Fii and fixed his gaze on her for a few seconds before responding. "Tell me, Backfire. Were you the one who provided the gear that she''s wearing? An OptiMax cyber-helmet and a Dynatech bodysuit...did you supply them to her?"

    "You want someone to blame? It''s on me," Virgil answered quickly. "She''s just a kid...let her go."

    Prime continued staring at Fii silently. His LED eyes glowed brighter than ever before.

    "She''s a Metahuman, I take it? Yet...she does not appear on our database. Most likely a slum dweller like the tin can I''ve...taken care of." He gestured to Kareem''s corpse before tossing it aside like garbage. "Interesting...very interesting. And you''ve trained her? Since when?"

    Virgil remained silent.

    "Very well...answer me this: why her? Why choose this girl as your successor?" Prime asked. "Why train someone from the slums? Someone so...unworthy...of such an honor? Did you have plans for her?"

    "Go to hell," Virgil growled. "I ain''t telling you shit."

    Prime nodded slightly as if he''d expected such a response. "I have my suspicions...but I''ll be sure to ask you again later...in private." He waved his hand and sent Virgil flying into a shanty. The wooden structure collapsed around him. "I''d rather not deal with that disturbing apparition that seems to haunt you. We''ll have plenty of time to catch up...soon."

    Prime glanced back at Fii once more. "Come here," he commanded.

    Her body jerked upright and marched towards him involuntarily. Her muscles strained against the invisible force that dragged her along. It was like being caught in a strong current¡ªpowerless to resist its pull.

    Was this what others felt like she used her gravikinesis on them? She didn''t like it one bit.

    Prime''s gaze followed her closely as she approached.

    "Kneel." His voice was firm but not loud. The slightest hint of impatience colored his tone.

    Fii sank to her knees in front of him. Her body trembled from exertion as she struggled to break free. A wave of nausea washed over her. Sweat trickled down her forehead. Her pulse raced in her ears. It took all her strength to remain upright. She couldn''t stop herself from shaking uncontrollably.

    "It appears you are not fully trained...a novice at best...no matter. I have many questions to ask you," Prime stated calmly. "But first...let us get acquainted. What is your name?"

    She looked up at Prime through blurry eyes.

    You think you''re the only one who could do something like this? I''ll show you.

    Fii concentrated and gathered as much gravitons around them as she could. She pushed against Prime''s mental hold with everything she had.

    Slowly, she stood back up on unsteady legs while exerting her power to force him down¡ªenough to crush the Metas she''d faced so far by a hundredfold. She could feel his power trying to counteract hers.

    Kneel!

    Prime''s LED eyes widened in surprise as he sank to his knees before her.

    "Urgh! What...?!" His voice had lost its cool edge. For once, Prime sounded unsettled.

    As he strained to look up at her, Fii glared down at him through the cracked visor of her helmet.

    "My name...is Axion," she growled. "And you will leave us alone."

 Chapter 78: On the Brink

    Despite her best efforts, Prime slowly regained his footing. It was like anchoring a cloud to the earth. His Telekinesis seemed able to adapt as soon as she made any headway. He continued rising despite her efforts to pin him to the ground.

    With a grunt, he stood upright before her.

    His helmet''s LED eyes glowed bright red as he stared back at her in silence. Though his expression remained hidden behind his helmet, Fii could tell he was furious. She''d caught him off guard...

    A barely audible mechanical whirring followed. Then the LED eyes returned to their normal blue color.

    Fii felt a pulsing force pressing against her own, a tide pushing back with each wave she sent forth. It was as if she were pushing against a relentless wind, her powers bending but not breaking under the invisible onslaught.

    Around them, the air crackled, dust motes swirling into mini cyclones, as if the very atmosphere was being torn apart by their conflicting forces. A strange buzzing filled her ears and her skin crawled like she was being covered in thousands of tiny ants.

    Her vision blurred and swam before her. Every breath hurt. Every fiber in her body burned with fatigue.

    Eventually, she let go of her power and stumbled back, gasping for air.

    It seemed as if Prime sensed this and he too relented; the oppressive sensation lifted slightly.

    Prime finally stood up, tilting his head at her. "Axion? An interesting name...though I doubt a slum dweller like you could have come up with that on your own." His voice held a note of condescension as he regarded her with thinly veiled contempt. "Who chose it? Was it Virgil? Doubtful. He''s not that clever."

    Fii gritted her teeth in frustration. She forced her shaky legs to hold steady as she matched his gaze. "You''re a Super...aren''t you supposed to protect people? Why attack us?!"

    She tried to keep her tone even to hide her pain.

    Prime paused for a moment before replying, "In the same way we protect all of humanity¡ªby ridding the world of its undesirables. The slums have become breeding grounds for degenerates...corrupt and depraved. Their influence must be expunged...one way or another."

    "We did nothing wrong!" Fii snapped. "We were only defending ourselves from Salvatore and his mercs!"

    Prime''s eyes narrowed as he took a step closer. His hands remained clasped behind his back. The polished white of his suit reflected the sunlight overhead. He towered over by a full head''s length. Even with the helmet obscuring his features, he radiated confidence and authority. Fii felt small in comparison.

    "Salvatore...Ah yes...a complication...I must admit, that this unexpected development has...soured my mood. Still, nothing can be done about it now," Prime mused aloud. "At least you know his name...most slum dwellers don''t...or care to learn. You seem more...intelligent than the average street rat. You may prove useful after all."

    Fii felt her anger rise. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides. "Don''t change the subject! What gives you the right to do this?!"

    Prime chuckled darkly. "The right? Do you really need to ask? Surely even you can answer that...unless you''re stupider than I thought. But then again...you might be as thick-headed as the rest of them. Let me spell it out for you: I am Prime¡ªleader of the Ultimate Guardians. I have the authority to protect humanity from any and all threats¡ª foreign or domestic...and that includes those who live within these...deplorable conditions."

    He gestured around him at the ruined neighborhood. His tone remained flat as he continued speaking. "The slum is a cesspool of human filth. It exists solely because we allow it to. It is a vestige of the past kept alive by nostalgic fools who refuse to let go. It is an affront to modern civilization...a disgrace.

    "If not for the Metropolis, this city would be little more than rubble. We provide for your bare necessities...for your survival...and yet...you continue to squander our generosity by indulging in your...degenerate lifestyle...which has led to the creation of unruly scum like them."

    Prime waved a hand towards the remnants of the Ironclad Legion. Most had fled, but several still lay dead on the street. The other slum dwellers who peeked out from the windows of nearby buildings or shanties quickly ducked back inside as his gaze swept over them.

    He turned his attention back to Fii and continued speaking.

    "I''ll repeat myself just so you understand me clearly: If not for our efforts...you''d be living in constant fear of starvation¡ªor worse...death. And yet...you throw that away¡ªwillingly¡ªand in return you poison yourselves...and produce degenerates like these..." He walked over to Kareem''s corpse and nudged it with his foot. "It is no wonder we allow the slums to rot¡ªthat we tolerate such squalor. Why waste resources trying to save those who refuse to help themselves?"

    "We''ve done the best we could with what we have," Fii shot back. "Sure, it''d be nice if gangs didn''t exist, but what can we do about it? We don''t have the resources you guys have! It''s not like we asked to live like this! We''re stuck here...because of HighRise like you!"

    Prime shook his head slowly. His voice took on a patronizing tone. "You make excuses...it''s pathetic...but I suppose that''s expected from someone who has never known anything better. Someone like you couldn''t comprehend what life is like beyond these slums...the luxuries that exist outside of them. And yet...you yearn for such things, don''t you? You''d give anything to escape this...if given the chance."

    Fii stared at him silently as she considered his words. A part of her hated to admit it...but he was right¡ªeven if he sounded like an arrogant asshole. She''d always dreamed of leaving the slums¡ªand living in the Metropolis.

    "Yes...that''s what I thought," Prime said with a chuckle. "Every person from these slums wants the same thing, and they will do anything to get it. They are no different than animals. They will tear each other apart to achieve their selfish desires...and you are no exception." He took another step closer until he stood directly in front of her. He stared down at her through his helmet''s visor. His LED eyes glowed brightly. "Am I wrong?"

    Fii didn''t respond. She refused to give him the satisfaction.

    "Your silence speaks volumes, and yet, your actions betray your words...you still defend them despite their misdeeds¡ªdespite knowing they are unworthy of such mercy...how foolish..." Prime paused as if waiting for her to reply.

    When she didn''t speak up, he began pacing slowly in front of her and continued his monologue. "I will not pretend to understand why you continue to defend them...perhaps you think you can save them? Is that it? Are you hoping to show them the error of their ways? If so...then you''re wasting your time...and theirs."

    He stopped walking and turned to face her once more. "Don''t be a fool. You cannot change their nature...not when they have been like this for so long. And even if you could, it wouldn''t last. Sooner or later they would revert back to their base instincts and do it all over again...until there''s nothing left but ashes¡ªas history has proven time and again."

    Prime reached out with his hand towards her.

    Suddenly, her helmet began to loosen from her head. She grabbed at it instinctively and tried to keep it in place. But his telekinesis was too strong. It slipped out of her grasp and flew towards Prime. He caught it easily and held it in his hands as if examining it.

    Fii gasped in surprise as her face became exposed to the world. She glanced around at the scattered crowd of slum dwellers watching from a distance. She couldn''t see their expressions clearly. But she didn''t care anymore. Her secret was out...she was exposed.

    "Ah, there we are..." Prime muttered as he tilted her helmet in his hands. "Now I can finally get a good look at you...so young...but old enough to know better¡ªyet still foolish enough to defend them. An admirable trait...if misplaced...but there''s no saving them now¡ªnot when they''ve made their bed...and must lie in it."

    Fii took a deep breath and steeled herself before meeting his gaze. "You don''t have to do this. We didn''t ask for any of this! Please...don''t hurt anyone else...just...stop...please!" She hated how weak she sounded. But she didn''t care anymore. All she wanted was for him to leave.

    Prime tossed her helmet aside and began walking around her slowly in a circle. He folded his arms behind his back again as he studied her closely. "It seems I underestimated you. You possess considerable power for a slumdog¡ªeven with your limited experience. No wonder Virgil chose you." He stopped circling her and stood directly in front of her once more. "Yes...you may be useful indeed...but only if you cooperate."

    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    "Why? What do you want from me?" Fii asked.

    Prime reached out towards her with one hand. She flinched instinctively as his fingertips grazed her cheek. He tilted her chin up slightly so she could meet his gaze.

    "Simple...bring me Virgil''s head. Do that, and I''ll forgive your outburst." His voice held no hint of emotion. His tone was matter-of-fact...almost bored. "He will be...retired...due to his treasonous actions from a decade ago. You may not know this, but he was¡ªis¡ªa notorious vigilante who had done what you''ve just witnessed me do here. It''s time for him to retire from that career. We''ll be sure to write his epitaph for the world to remember."

    Fii jerked her head away from his grasp and took a step back. Her eyes narrowed as she glared at him. "I won''t do it! He''s my friend. He''s been training me...teaching me...helping me! I''m not gonna betray him! Never!"

    "You abhor my methods yet you''re fine with his?" Prime asked coolly. "Do you truly believe Virgil cares for you? Are you naive enough to think he does this out of kindness? You are merely a tool...a means to an end. A pawn in his schemes. He has no qualms about using others for his own agenda. Surely you must have realized that by now."

    "No! That''s not true!" Fii snapped. "Virgil''s a good person! He''s helping me so I can protect everyone!"

    Prime shook his head slowly. "Your na?vete astounds me. It reminds me of myself...back when I first donned the mantle of a superhero...back before I understood the truth...before I realized what true heroes are...what they do...what they must do..." His voice trailed off as he looked away. He seemed lost in his own thoughts.

    After a moment, he returned his attention to Fii and continued speaking. "You may be powerful, but you lack moral clarity...which makes you dangerous. It would be in your best interest to accept my ultimatum. I will not ask again...bring me Virgil''s head...or else face the consequences. It would be a shame if I had to dispose of you."

    "Go to hell," Fii snarled. "If this is what it takes to be a superhero like you...then I don''t want to be one!"

    Prime sighed heavily. "I''m disappointed...but not surprised. So be it. Don''t say I didn''t warn you."

    <hr>

    Fii glared at Prime, her vision narrowing into a tunnel focused solely on him. The surrounding slums blurred into an indistinct backdrop as she prepared to engage. Her gravikinetic sense blazed to life in her mind''s eye.

    Ripples and eddies in the fabric of space-time swirled around them like water currents. She could sense the subtle movements of Prime''s telekinetic power pushing back against the gravitational force¡ªa constant pressure seeking to overcome her control.

    Prime stood still, arms crossed, LED eyes glowing brightly. His polished armored suit pristine and unblemished. He seemed almost relaxed, unfazed by her resistance. It was as if he expected this outcome...as if he wanted her to fight him.

    "You''ve made your choice," he said coolly. "Let''s see if you can back it up."

    She wasn''t going to let him intimidate her.

    Without warning, Fii launched herself forward, using her gravikinesis to propel her at an incredible speed. Her body became a blur as she aimed a punch at Prime''s midsection. At the last second, she shifted the gravitational field around her fist to amplify the impact.

    Prime didn''t move. As Fii''s fist closed in, she felt a sudden, immense force pushing back against her. It was like hitting an invisible wall. Her momentum halted abruptly, and she found herself flying backward through the air instead. She crashed hard onto the pavement.

    "Is that all you''ve got?" Prime''s voice was calm, almost mocking. He raised a hand, and Fii felt a powerful telekinetic force wrap around her body, lifting her off the ground. "How disappointing."

    She struggled against the invisible grip, focusing her power on breaking free. The air around her shimmered with gravitational distortions as she exerted her will. With a burst of effort, she managed to disrupt Prime''s hold just enough to drop back to the ground, landing in a crouch.

    Not wasting a moment, Fii directed her power at the ground beneath Prime''s feet, attempting to destabilize him. The concrete cracked and shifted, but Prime merely floated a few centimeters off the ground, unaffected.

    She reached out with her mind again, this time targeting the surrounding debris. Shards of glass, bricks, and pieces of scrap metal flew towards Prime in a torrential whirlwind. He waved a hand dismissively, and the objects scattered in all directions.

    Fii attempted another approach, leaping into the air and soaring above him. At the apex of her jump, she focused on a nearby pile of rubble, lifting several large chunks into the air with her power.

    With a sharp motion, she hurled the debris at Prime from multiple angles, hoping to catch him off guard. Prime''s eyes glowed brighter, and the chunks of concrete stopped mid-air, suspended by his telekinesis. He flicked his wrist, sending them hurtling back towards her.

    She pulled back quickly, dodging the projectiles as they flew past. The shattered concrete slammed into the side of a building behind her, causing part of the structure to collapse.

    Prime''s next move was a sudden swipe of his arm through the air.

    Invisible forces gripped Fii, yanking her towards a crumbling wall. Instinctively, Fii twisted in the air, lightening her body just enough to drift over the debris, turning a harsh throw into a controlled glide. She rolled as she landed, springing back to her feet.

    Fii immediately concentrated. She envisioned dragging him down, making him kneel as he had forced her to, but the superhero¡¯s silhouette merely shimmered slightly, as if he were made of nothing more substantial than the dust swirling around them. Prime didn''t even look fazed.

    "Don''t make this harder than it has to be," he said, his tone edged with annoyance. He wasn''t even winded. "I''m doing you a favor. You could learn a lot from me...become a real hero...or you can die a criminal."

    With a flick of his wrist, Prime sent a telekinetic wave crashing towards Fii. She braced herself, using her gravikinesis to anchor her feet to the ground. The force of the wave pushed her back, but she held her ground, maintaining her focus. She couldn''t afford to be distracted. Every second counted.

    She reached out with her power, lifting a nearby abandoned car into the air. With a grunt of effort, she hurled it towards Prime. He raised his hand, stopping the car mid-air before casually tossing it aside. The vehicle crashed into a pile of rubble, exploding in a shower of sparks and twisted metal.

    "Is this all you can manage?" Prime asked. His voice was tinged with boredom. "I expected more from you...but I suppose you''re still just a child."

    He floated closer to Fii, eyes glowing brighter than ever. "Do you have any idea what kind of potential you could''ve had? With the right training...the right guidance...you could''ve been something¡ªsomeone. But now...you''ll never achieve anything...you''ll always be a street rat...an insect...nothing more."

    His words cut deep, but Fii pushed the pain aside, focusing on the task at hand. She knew she couldn''t beat him head-on. He was too powerful...too experienced...she needed to be clever...to use her environment to her advantage.

    With a wave of her hand, she directed a barrage of debris towards him. He held up his palm, using his telekinesis to deflect the projectiles with ease. But Fii wasn''t finished.

    She charged, grabbing a rebar from the ground as she ran. Before reaching him, she slammed some of the debris together to create a cloud of dust, hiding her movements. She swung the makeshift weapon at him, aiming for his head. To her surprise, the bar bent around him instead, and he caught her by the wrist. His grip was like steel.

    "A pointless effort," he said. "Did you really think that would work?" He tightened his hold, twisting her arm behind her back. She cried out in pain as she felt her bones strain against the pressure.

    "I don''t want to kill you...but I will if you make me," Prime warned. "You''re young...you still have time to change your fate...but not if you keep resisting. Choose wisely." He twisted her arm harder. She bit back a scream as her shoulder popped out of its socket.

    "Fuck you!" Fii growled through clenched teeth.

    She reversed the gravity around him and amplified it a hundredfold. The unexpected change threw Prime off balance, forcing him to release her.

    Prime launched skyward while Fii fell flat on her face. He collided with the debris she had previously hurled at him that now hovered in the air. The chunks of concrete exploded into dust.

    Rocks and glass shards pelted Fii as she scrambled to get away. But before she could escape, she felt an invisible force wrap around her and pull her back towards him.

    She thrashed wildly as she struggled against Prime''s telekinetic hold. He floated towards her slowly, arms crossed behind his back. His once pristine suit was now covered in dust and scratches.

    "Impressive...but not good enough," he said coldly. "I gave you a chance...and you wasted it. You have no one to blame but yourself."

    As he closed the distance between them, the window from the building next to them shattered outwards¡ªKenzo''s form barreling through in a fierce glide. He unsheathed his katana mid-air, a rhythmic beat-drop radiating out as he brandished his sword.

    "°ÂÁxÊÌ¤Î½»í‘Çú (¨­gi: Samurai no K¨­ky¨­kyoku)!" he shouted, just as he swung the blade at Prime.

    A cascade of rhythmic sonic energy rippled outward from his slash, connecting with the superhero''s torso. Prime grunted in pain, the force of the impact sent him flying backwards into a nearby shanty. The shoddy structure collapsed around him.

    The telekinetic grip on Fii vanished.

    As he landed gracefully on the ground beside Fii, Kenzo tucked his weapon back into its sheath before turning to her. "Get out of here! I''ll hold him off!"

    Before she could protest, Prime rose from the rubble and fixed his gaze on them. A few large gashes marred his armored suit. His helmet''s LED eyes glowed brighter than ever...but they were also different now...redder...and more intense...the icy calmness had melted away.

    For once, he seemed angry.

    "Impressive...you managed to injure me," Prime said icily. "It seems I underestimated you as well...whoever you are."

    "Go get Virgil and run!" Kenzo shouted as he sprinted towards Prime with his sword drawn.

    "What about you?!" Fii asked.

    "I can handle him! Just do it!" Kenzo yelled back. "ÒôËÙ¤Î˜Œ (Onsoku no Yari)!"

    Kenzo swiped his blade in a quick upward arc as he closed in on Prime. A crescendo of rhythmic energy rippled outwards from the strike, sending a lance of sonic force towards the superhero.

    Prime raised his hand and blocked the attack with a wall of debris. The chunks of concrete exploded into dust as the soundwave collided with them.

    As Fii limped away from the fight, she glanced over her shoulder to watch the two exchange blows. Kenzo was fast...faster than she''d ever seen him move...but Prime reached out with his power and ensnared Kenzo mid-air.

    Kenzo''s sword fell to the ground with a clang as he struggled against Prime''s telekinetic hold.

    Oh no...NO!

 Chapter 79: Hero Killer

    "KENZO!" Fii screamed.

    Before she could react, before Kenzo could react...Prime raised his hand and clenched his fist.

    With a sickening crunch, Kenzo''s body twisted and bent in unnatural ways before falling limply to the ground. She stared in horror at his crumpled form. His once vibrant eyes were now dull and lifeless. Blood pooled around his broken body. He wasn''t moving...he wasn''t breathing...he was dead.

    She collapsed to her knees, her mind reeling in shock. All her emotions churned together as the scene before her began to blur. Anger. Sadness. Grief. Rage. All the things she felt on the verge of explosion.

    Time slowed to a crawl.

    All the sounds around her faded away, everything else became numb...except the deep agony of the moment...until that too dissipated into a void of darkness.

    She barely registered the agonizing screams escaping from her throat...she didn''t realize she was crying...sobbing...shaking. She couldn''t comprehend anything other than the rage coursing through her veins. Her entire world became focused on Prime. Every fiber of her being became fueled by anger...and hatred...a blind fury unlike anything she''d ever felt.

    A surge of raw power erupted within her¡ªa violent wave of unadulterated force. And the only place this energy could go was out. It forced its way through the cracks of her psyche like water bursting from a dam. The edges of Fii''s vision blackened, and the ground below her began to crack and vibrate. A faint ring permeated the air.

    I''m going to kill you...

    I''m going to fucking kill you!

    As the burning emotion in her stomach surged outward from her limbs and coursed through her veins like wildfire, her fingers began to shake. An all-consuming rage settled within her mind¡ªand in a brief moment of clarity, she sensed something awaken within. Something new. Something raw.

    Like the flickering spark of a flame given oxygen, the ember inside of her blossomed into an inferno. The world around her took on a new layer. One that she could suddenly feel¡ªwith her skin and with her mind¡ªone that she could see with more than just her eyes...

    Space...time...gravity...it all spread out before her as if a map unfurled in her consciousness. The hidden ties that bound the world together began to shine brightly like an invisible web. She reached out instinctively and the connections took shape. She pulled, and they moved.

    It was her rage that sparked the revelation. As the mental energy cascaded around her, it solidified in a form she had never consciously seen before but somehow understood instantly. A spectrum of colors spread out before her, like the lines of a circuit board, or the threads of an impossibly vast net¡ªif a spider could build webs large enough to span space.

    That spider was her, and these strings...these colors...her gravity.

    Prime floated a meter or two from where Kenzo lay, the center of his own network of colors, similar yet distinct from her own gravitational web. These threads were finer, more intricate, and seemed to flicker and dance with a peculiar energy. They pulsed and vibrated, creating patterns that resonated with the space around him.

    "It appears I''ve touched a nerve." Prime''s voice was flat as he stepped out of the clouds of dust. He brushed off his suit, but a long crack marred the white material of the shoulder where Kenzo''s sonic strike had hit.

    It didn''t stop him from floating in midair¡ªthough a small hint of wariness began to bleed through the man''s mask. "His death was justified. Attacking an Ultimate Guardian is a capital crime¡ªin or out of the metropolis. Surely you''re not surprised by his execution? Don''t waste your grief on those undeserving. In any case, there''s still time for you to be redeemed. Give me Virgil''s head. Then perhaps you might¡ª"

    With an instinctual motion, Fii flung her arm to the side.

    As though yanked by an invisible rope, Prime shot away from her. The superhero screamed in surprise as his body soared into a wall at incredible speeds, with such force that the concrete splintered as he passed through. He bounced off the other side before crashing into the street below. Chunks of the broken wall rained down on him.

    "Hngh! Ungh...you little¡ª" Prime climbed unsteadily to his feet. The glowing lines on his suit flickered in and out of view as he pulled himself out of the crater. "Very well. Playtime is over."

    This time, Prime leapt off the ground.

    He dashed through the air in a zig-zagging line and stopped abruptly, floating ten meters off the ground, his hand sweeping upward in a fluid motion. Instead of hurling debris or creating blunt force, he twisted the air itself, warping the space between them with a telekinetic spiral that drilled towards her like a corkscrew.

    Fii''s heart raced. She could felt the tug of the spiral, trying to pull her in, to twist and distort her body like it did the air.

    With a swift outward slash of her hands, she manipulated the gravity around herself, flattening the space in a wide disc. The spiral distorted, unable to maintain its integrity against the sudden shift. As Prime attempted another spiral strike, she flattened the space around her again, watching as the distortion slopped and fell apart.

    With her other hand, she twisted the colors around his form like threads and dragged him downward. Prime resisted and managed to lift a few centimeters off the ground before Fii pulled harder, sending him barreling through the pavement and deeper into the soil. The concrete cracked around him. Dust and rocks flew out in all directions.

    But still, he fought back, erupting the ground beneath him. The earth exploded outward as he shot out of the rubble. His body glowed brightly in her mind''s eye. The lines rippled and shimmered with kinetic energy, and he seemed to be concentrating his power for a large attack.

    Once again, he tried to warp her body into unnatural shapes¡ªhis attempt to crush the life out of her. The strange sensation filled her with a sense of panic...and this fear filled her mind with new ideas for counterattacks.

    Focusing on the colors surrounding her, she countered the vectors of force with opposing ones of her own¡ªnot completely canceling them out, but deflecting and redirecting the warping effect into harmless spirals that caused her to spin and twist at times.

    "This...is a surprise," he muttered. "The unexpected telekinetic capabilities you show¡ªthough clearly still inferior¡ªit''s a shame...you could have made something of yourself. A real asset...like myself."

    Prime reached out with his hand as if grasping at the air.

    Fii felt a telekinetic grip tightening around her throat, cutting off her air and hoisting her off the ground.

    The hero rose off the ground in tandem and floated closer. "Still...inferior...yet intriguing. Virgil must have found someone very special...someone who has never shown her gifts before."

    The pressure on Fii''s neck grew stronger, causing her eyes to water.

    "Give me Virgil, and I''ll release you," Prime offered. "This...is the last time I''ll ask so politely."

    The snarl that ripped from Fii''s throat surprised even herself. She focused on her rage, on the white-hot pain inside of her, and concentrated her mind, matching the hero''s invisible grip with an invisible push of her own.

    Her fingers reached out and clamped on nothing as she dragged at the empty space around her neck. With an exclamation of exertion and anguish, she found the spot in the space where Prime''s power connected to her. She oscillated the gravitational field on the spot, disrupting the stable entanglement Prime needed for his telekinetic control. It broke.

    Her eyes shot wide as air rushed into her lungs and she slammed back to the ground. Immediately she sprang to her feet and resumed the offensive.

    The air around her became a chaotic mess. A flurry of dust swirled with rocks, pieces of metal, and other debris¡ªanything near enough to respond to her gravity.

    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Prime hurled chunk after chunk of earth and concrete at her, but she sent them right back with her power. Each piece deflected or dispersed back at him with equal or greater force. The resulting swirl of air around them compressed into a chaotic eddy of currents and crosswinds as their powers clashed.

    Both of their tempos increased as their attacks became more powerful¡ªand more furious. Even at her fastest speed, Fii couldn''t land a hit; Prime had an uncanny sense for where her gravity-driven objects were coming from and where they would strike. The dust swirled and eddied like the aftermath of a small tornado; their movements kept the cloud churning over them.

    A two-meter chunk of wall spun into the air behind Fii; as it rose above the whipping currents, she tethered to it and shot it at him as fast as she could. It split as soon as Prime caught the object with a telekinetic grasp. The two halves, now thrown off target by his grip, hurled in a wide arc away from the two combatants. The sonic crack of the concrete against the buildings resounded across the slums like the report of a cannon. The pieces sent up dust clouds like smoke.

    In that instant, Fii hurled herself skyward towards the top of the wall behind her¡ªas she reached its highest point, she focused all of her power on herself and lifted off.

    Her perception of time slowed as she watched Prime spin around¡ªshe felt as he stretched his own telekinesis over the area like a blanket¡ªthen felt his attempt to tighten his control over her¡ªto constrict her like a fly in a spider''s web.

    As Prime attempted to ensnare her in the grip of his power¡ªlike he did Kenzo¡ªshe again interrupted his power''s entanglement, distorting and shattering his control. With the telekinetic hold broken, her ascent resumed.

    She drove her boot heel into Prime''s helmeted face with every ounce of her velocity. The impact fractured the gleaming plasteel with a deafening crack; Fii''s momentum sent them both flying through the air towards the far side of the slum.

    Fii hit the ground in a tuck and roll and stopped.

    Prime tumbled through the street in a messy somersault before rolling to a stop, sprawled out in the rubble. Fii paused. The man lay on the ground with one hand reaching up towards his cracked helmet. She raised herself from her crouch slowly.

    "That..." Prime mumbled quietly. "Is not supposed...to be possible."

    With a deep groan and a grunt, the man slowly lifted his head, turned slightly and glared at her with a flicker of white fire in the LED eyes of his shattered helmet.

    The superhero gingerly pressed two fingers to his broken helmet¡ªthe index finger and middle¡ªand then slammed a palm hard to the ground beside his head. "I will give you...one...more chance...to redeem yourself...give me...VIRGIL...or...DIE."

    "Circuit''s closed, asshole," Fii growled. She squared up with both her fists out as her senses zeroed in on the man''s faint outline in the swirling cloud of debris. "Go fuck yourself."

    Prime scrambled to his knees, both palms pressing flat into the gravel below. "THEN DIE!"

    His scream pierced the air as he extended his palms forward. With a resounding crack, he pulled apart both palms and telekinetically tore up four three-story buildings on either side of Fii.

    They hovered there for a breath, then with another scream, he heaved them towards her.

    A grim smile split her lips as she reached out with her power and grabbed hold of each building. A titanic surge of energy coursed through her limbs as she connected to the space surrounding the colossal objects.

    She didn''t try to deflect the structures¡ªthat would have required far too much force and concentration. Instead, she focused her energy on resisting his telekinetic control¡ªon nullifying the hidden tendrils of influence the hero grasped at with his power¡ªto block him from further movement.

    For a long moment, they held the standstill¡ªlocked in a contest of wills. Fii grit her teeth against the effort of restraining Prime''s influence...she could feel her opponent fighting her. This time, Prime struggled against her¡ªconcentrated his effort on shifting the direction of his broken structures¡ªas he attempted to pass them through her blockage. His will warred with hers, trying to re-assert control and finish the strike...to crush her where she stood.

    She didn''t move; the gravity-laden structures started to pivot in place. Then they began to teeter and shift at a glacial pace, but slow and steady won the race. Fii felt beads of sweat run down her cheek from the strain. Centimeter by centimeter, her efforts began to win out. The structures began to tilt at an angle as they twisted like they were stuck in the mire. They creaked and groaned as she exerted all her mental force to slow their rotation and turn them back.

    They rolled over, crashing to the ground a short distance away. A cloud of dust exploded up from the ground where they landed¡ªmissing Fii by several meters.

    She fell to one knee as she watched the cloud expand outward in slow motion; each second of time dragging on forever...each instant ticking past...torturously slow. Her breath came in shallow, ragged gasps...but her heartbeat thrummed like a drumbeat in her chest; the rush of adrenaline surging through her veins gave her a heightened clarity.

    Everything moved like she was wading through molasses...and the man who killed Kenzo...he too moved sluggishly as he slowly picked himself up off the ground.

    "It''s...im...impossible!" Prime muttered through the static from his cracked helmet. He rose slowly to his feet. The LED eyes of his cracked helmet were dull and flickering...but still sharp as they burned with contempt and fury. "No one...can resist...my control...not even the other...Ultimate...Guardians...not...POSSIBLE...how did you..."

    Now was her chance. He was wounded...he had to be running out of steam...all she had to do was kill him.

    Despite the adrenaline and the clarity it brought, her body screamed for rest. She could feel the limitations of her gravikinesis pressing against her mind, but she couldn''t stop now. She had to finish this.

    Prime extended his hand, his telekinetic force wrapping around her like an invisible vice. She felt the pressure building, attempting to crush her like a tin can.

    Two can play this game...

    With a savage cry, she conjured the deepest desire for violence she could and drew on the remaining reservoir of strength from within. She brought her hands out in front of her, bringing them together as though she were going to crush Prime between her palms.

    She stretched and pulled at the very fabric of space with every ounce of her mental might¡ªtwisting and squeezing at the invisible web holding everything together. The edges of her vision began to darken and blur, but she could see the world around her become hazy as Prime''s control over the area was disrupted.

    "WHAT...WHAT...IS...THIS!?" Prime shouted; the flicker from his helmet eyes became even more pronounced. "WHAT...ARE...YOU...DOING...TO ME!?"

    The space around him shimmered, bending inward. Prime''s scream morphed into a gurgle as his body began to contort and compress in on itself.

    Fii could feel the immense strain on her own body, but she didn''t let go. She couldn''t. Fii squeezed harder.

    Prime''s telekinetic grip on her faded away. His body constricted into itself¡ªcollapsing under its own mass. Blood began to leak from Prime''s helmet cracks and spurt from between his arm plates and legs joints. More blood began to stream from the unblemished portions of his armor¡ªfrom any opening or seam it could find¡ªand ran in rivers down to his feet.

    "W-Wait! Y-You don''t h-have to¡ª!" Prime pleaded. His voice came through the helmet''s static in garbled stutters. "S-Stop! S-S-Stop! Y-You realize this is a c-crime!" he bellowed. "If y-you d-do this...y-y-you will b-be on the¡ªurk¡ªlo-list forever! You-r life-life as you...kn-k-k-now i-it is-is over-rr-r-rrrrr-RRRRRR-RRR¡ªR-R¡ª"

    Prime''s plea twisted and shifted into the worst audio glitch Fii had ever heard. It trailed off in a dying fizzle.

    Despite his pleading, she felt his power trying to counteract hers. He was desperately attempting to shield himself using telekinesis to stabilize his collapsing body...to repel her own power back. But every time she saw him achieve a degree of relief against her attacks, she squeezed again...and again...and again...crushing him...collapsing him...ignoring his pained screams. The hero''s telekinesis field fluctuated in and out of focus; Fii felt its influence grow weaker and weaker over time.

    With a final, guttural scream, Fii unleashed all her power. There was a moment¡ªthe most minuscule of breaths¡ªwhere the hero held himself together...

    ...and then he was gone. His armored form pulled into himself, collapsing like a deflating balloon as he was drawn inexorably towards a single point.

    The space around that point distorted, the fabric of reality bending inward. For a fraction of a second, a point of infinite density formed. She had read about it in the physics books Edith forced her to study¡ªa micro black hole.

    The immediate environment drew towards this singularity¡ªdebris, dust, and even light itself sucked into the void. The dilapidated buildings around them groaned as their structures were pulled, windows shattering and walls creaking under the immense gravitational pull.

    The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end; a brief sensation of panic washed over her as the threads of light and the shimmering colors in her gravikinetic vision began to swirl¡ªto distort at the edges¡ªas even the very ground beneath her feet seemed to lose its integrity. It felt as though the world might rip itself apart...

    It was about to burst.

    Fii envisioned a well, a deep, dark sink around the area into which the violent energy could be absorbed and contained. It was a desperate gambit, but there was no other choice.

    Then...with a brilliant flash of light, the micro black hole evaporated, releasing a wave of heat and energy that rippled outward in concentric circles. The shockwave tore through the area and shook the ground, cracking the roads around them.

    As if someone had pulled the ground beneath her feet, Fii felt the world shift. Her mind spun. Her body spun. The ground, the buildings, the sky¡ªeverything spun. It all faded to white.

    <hr>

    Fii opened her eyes to the gentle rays of dawn washing over her face. Everything hurt; her mind felt dull.

    Pain lanced through her, and for a few moments, she lay still¡ªher breathing shallow and ragged as her vision gradually returned. Through hazy eyes, she watched dust motes float peacefully through shafts of the early morning light peeking through the cracks in the ruined wall beside her. With each breath, she winced. But every breath told her she had made it¡ªshe had survived.

    She groaned softly as she tried to lift her head.

    A crater as wider and deeper than the Rusted Colosseum was all that remained where Prime had been, with a small gap from where Fii had managed to shield herself from the blast. The ground rumbled, and Fii turned her aching head in time to watch a two-story building crumble from the edge of the crater before settling in a heap.

    The remnants of the explosion echoed through the desolate streets, followed by an uneasy silence, a stillness¡ªonly the ringing in Fii''s ears disturbed the quiet.

    With another grunt of pain, she slowly moved her hands and brought a knee underneath her to prop her body up. Her arms and legs trembled with every effort; her muscles felt like they were on fire. The acrid smell of spent dust hung heavily in the air. Dust and soot coated every surface.

    Fii pulled her thoughts back together to wrap her mind around what she had done¡ªaround what had just happened.

    She just killed a superhero¡­

 Chapter 80: Pyrrhic Victory

    Fii climbed unsteadily to her feet, leaning against a broken wall for support. Her ears still rang from the force of the blast; her mind reeled from the chaotic swirl of emotions still coursing through her. She pulled away from the wall and limped forward. Her limbs felt heavy and sluggish, and she stumbled on every third step or so.

    She should be dead...she should be a smear on the pavement. But something had happened¡ªsomething within her had changed...again. Her eyes turned skyward and stared into the settling dust, past the fading traces of the shockwave''s destruction.

    Her mind reeled, but a sharpness had set in around its edges...a clarity. It felt like a switch being flipped.

    The world suddenly seemed very small.

    She thought about what this would mean¡ªthe ramifications of her actions. She had killed a superhero...killed a member of the most esteemed organization in the Metropolis: the Ultimate Guardians. There was no turning back now.

    No...stop...stop thinking about this. Get to Virgil...that''s all...just get to Virgil. Make sure he''s okay.

    After stumbling along the streets, people peeked out of nearby buildings and alleyways.

    Fii worried that bystanders in the area might have gotten caught up in the aftermath of her battle. But as far as she could see, the damage from the explosion was limited. The surrounding area remained relatively unscathed except for debris from collapsed buildings on their fringes.

    Thank goodness. Her gambit had worked.

    As the people emerged from hiding, they stared at her with a mix of awe and fear. Faces appeared behind cracked windows, eyes watching warily as she limped past. When she glanced over at the crowd of gawkers standing a few meters away from her, they scattered, scurrying away into doorways and alleyways like insects under a rock.

    Now everyone knew her face¡ªknew who she was...and she would have to live with that. But...so be it. That didn''t matter anymore. Let them stare¡ªlet them talk¡ªlet them do whatever the fuck they wanted¡ªso long as they stayed out of her way.

    She tried to ignore the visions of Kenzo''s final moments...tried not to dwell on the all-too-familiar feeling of hopelessness. She would mourn him...but now wasn''t the time. Her brain was on autopilot...and all she could think about was the need to get to Virgil.

    It took several minutes to retrace her steps back to where the fight with Prime had begun¡ªthe whole journey a blur in her mind. A part of her registered the change in the crowds¡ªhow they shuffled away as she moved¡ªsome whispering, others just staring in mute shock. She must be a sight¡ªher bodysuit shredded from the earlier fight, her skin marred with dirt and bruises...covered in a grime of blood and sweat and dust.

    And then she reached her destination.

    She looked over to the shanty that Virgil had been flung into and stumbled towards it.

    "V...Virg..." her voice croaked.

    From behind the debris, Quinn stumbled out, supporting a disheveled Virgil on his shoulder. "Shit¡ªFii. Thank fuck. Virgil''s...not good. Gonna need to take him to the clinic¡ª"

    Her arms found their strength once again¡ªbriefly. She hurried over and supported Virgil''s other side. The two half-walked...half-dragged Virgil as he groaned in pain. Virgil''s right eye had swollen shut; his bottom lip was cut open...dripping blood in a trail behind them. His arm hung at an odd angle.

    Virgil grimaced a smile through bloodstained teeth. "You did good kid...did real...real good. Just...a scratch. It''s all...it''s all good. Fixed...in a flash...get it? Good?" he coughed out weakly. His attempt to lighten the mood fell flat as he slumped over...limp.

    She nodded and swallowed past the lump in her throat. Her vision began to blur¡ªwhether from tears or the onset of exhaustion...she wasn''t sure.

    "Quinn..." her voice broke as she turned to him. "Kenzo...Kenzo''s...Kenzo is...he''s¡ª" She trailed off...her breath hitching...the words refusing to leave her throat.

    Quinn nodded...his face a mix of anger and grief. "I...saw."

    Fii bit her lip...but it did little to stem the tears. She furiously wiped at her face...trying to maintain...trying to keep focused.

    Suddenly, a gust of wind picked up¡ªcausing the dust around them to swirl and disperse¡ªas the whine of an engine pierced the air.

    They froze. Fii blinked away the last of her tears to peer up at the shadow of a sleek dropship loomed over them. The dropship touched down across the street, the rear hatch slowly dropping open. The first set of footsteps rang out on the metal gangplank as it hit the ground.

    Six costumed figures filed out from the cargo bay¡ªsome wearing helmets...some wearing masks¡ªall dressed in a combination of body armor and high-tech clothing. Their outfits displayed an odd variety of colors...but each bore similar logos.

    More Ultimate Guardians? Her eyes widened as she recognized each of them¡ªsome she knew from their posters and their televised exploits broadcasted through the Rust Market¡ªwhile others had only recently garnered the attention of the media.

    The tallest guardian strode out first and stepped onto the gangplank; she could tell it was Noir Streak¡ªthe speedster with black lightning forking off his legs¡ªhis signature. The guardians stood at parade rest on the gangplank''s edge with Noir Streak at the front. The dropship behind them lowered to the ground, its engines sending swirls of dust and dirt into the air.

    Noir Streak paused. His voice boomed over the churning of the dropship engines as he raised a finger and pointed directly at her.

    "AXION!" he yelled, his tone harsh. "For crimes against the state and your fellow man¡ªfor the death of one of your own...we are here to bring you and Backfire in!"

    Fii stiffened as their glares bored into her. Her grip on Virgil tightened unconsciously.

    Quinn looked at her nervously. "Shit¡ªFii...this ain''t good..." He adjusted Virgil''s body across their shoulders. "Do you...you want me to take¡ª"

    She cut him off with a curt shake of her head.

    They were only defending themselves against Prime''s unjustified aggression. His action against Kareem and the Ironclad Legion was one thing, but hurting Virgil, revealing who she was, and killing Kenzo¡ªthat crossed a line. It was all wrong...it was fucked.

    But these people didn''t care. They would never see her side of things. They probably just followed orders¡ªserving the metropolis at the expense of people like her...like Virgil...like Kenzo.

    Her hands twitched as she readjusted her grip on Virgil; a barely audible growl escaped her lips as her exhaustion momentarily faded into the background.

    "Kid," Virgil whispered through grit teeth. "Whatever you are...thinking...stop..."

    "But Virgil¡ª" she protested.

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    "I''ll deal with the rest of them." As soon as the words left his mouth, a spectral entity manifested behind Virgil''s body, hovering above his shoulder and surrounding him with an aura.

    Fii''s eyes widened.

    If death had a form...it would be Virgil''s guardian. It towered above them, its cloak billowing in an imperceptible wind; the hood seemed to stare back at her with a thousand hollow eyes...red orbs within a sea of shifting black. Eight skeletal arms wielding pistols of various shapes and sizes extended from the cloak''s voluminous sleeves¡ªeach aimed at one of the guardians¡ªall at the ready.

    Its jaw opened¡ªjoints cracking as they spread to reveal a row of crooked teeth within. A screech bubbled from the entity¡ªa low buzzing tone...gradually crescendoing¡ªcracking and tearing through the air.

    Fii and Quinn grimaced as the screech rattled their teeth. Her ears throbbed...the noise worming its way into her skull...coiling through her thoughts...lurking within...haunting...beneath the surface...echoing...echoing...echoing...the words reverberated through her mind like a mantra.

    The Ultimate Guardians visibly faltered, staggering a few steps back.

    Virgil glared through his good eye at the assembled guardians, his voice a low rasp. "I see a few new faces, but some of you should still remember the beating I gave you long ago. Noir...you know what happens next...and you''re welcome to try me. None of you are fast enough, or tough enough, to take me...down. Heh...heh...heh...not without Prime...and he''s dead.

    "Let''s not pretend that any of you had a soft spot for the fucker. He was as much a liability as an asset...you all know this. And your sponsors know it too. I may be the bad guy...but I ain''t the only...heh...heh...heh¡ªUngh...fuck! Urgh..." He coughed, blood flecking his lips. "The metropolis may like to...see its heroes as unstoppable...but your time is coming to an end."

    Virgil hacked out another painful cough. Fii looked on with concern, but the gunslinger waved her off as he spat blood on the ground. "The girl and I will take our leave...and there ain''t a damned thing you can do to stop us. If you even try¡ªjust remember...what I can do to you, she can do more..." He gestured to himself. "A million times worse...so, sit tight, drink...enjoy the day off. Hell...go home and start writing an obituary for ol'' Prime."

    Noir Streak clenched his fist, then tapped the side of his helmet as if he were listening through a comm device. He paused briefly, then gave a curt nod. "We are...advised to withdraw. Backfire and...Axion...are no longer a priority until further instruction. Dropship has been ordered to lift off. Stand down." He tapped the side of his helmet again and gestured for the rest of the guardians to follow. One by one they filed back onto the dropship.

    "This doesn''t mean you''re off the hook, you hear?" Noir Streak bellowed over the sound of the dropship''s engines. He was the last to board.

    He turned to face Fii directly and jabbed a finger towards her. "The price for killing an Ultimate Guardian is life imprisonment or death. But, someone who has the power to kill Prime...if you still consider yourself a hero, then serving the Metropolis should be the atonement you seek for what you did here today. A meta like you, wasting their potential here, is nothing but a thorn in our side. It''s in your best interest to comply. Think about it, Slumdog."

    The ramp ascended with a whir; the whine of the engines reached a new crescendo as the backwash stirred dust from the ground. Slowly¡ªbut surely¡ªthe sleek dropship lifted off.

    They all stared at the departing ship and waited. Once the engines had faded to a dull rumble in the distance and the shadowy speck disappeared on the horizon, Virgil let out a long breath. Immediately, his guardian dispersed like smoke on the wind; he sagged...slumped across their shoulders.

    Fii shifted him back upright with a grunt. "Come on...Virgil. Let''s get you to Edith..."

    <hr>

    Something had happened at the Aether Clinic while they were gone; the first indicator was the hastily cleaned-up blood stain by the door to the basement lab, followed by the nervous energy of the few staff members who milled about. As Quinn and Fii¡ªbearing the unconscious Virgil¡ªmade their way across the clinic, Sheri hurried over.

    She had a gauzed-up gash on her forehead. The normally cheery nurse wore a solemn expression and kept her tone quiet.

    "Sheri¡ªWhat the hell happened?" Fii asked.

    Sheri opened her mouth to reply...then abruptly shook her head. "First take Virgil into the patient room¡ªthis way."

    Quinn and Fii maneuvered through the corridors of the clinic towards the room that Sheri directed them to.

    Virgil''s head lolled against his chest. He opened his good eye a crack. "Some...good drinks...would be real nice...right about now." He managed a pained smirk as he coughed weakly.

    When they reached their destination, they took Virgil to the examination bed and lowered him down gently. Virgil hissed and groaned in pain but settled down. He clamped his jaw tight and grumbled something about whiskey.

    Sheri left and quickly returned with a medical tray covered with the necessary instruments. "Okay. Um...Helix. Let me know if I missed anything. I had to improvise," she whispered to the air. The A.I.''s confirmation chimes answered with a subdued tone.

    "Sheri...what is going on?" Fii asked as she kept a vigil by Virgil''s side. "Where''s Edith?"

    The nurse pursed her lips and began inspecting Virgil. "Edith left. Helix can tell you more. I have to focus on Virgil right now." Her tone left no room for discussion.

    Fii suppressed a flash of irritation as she held up her hands in acquiescence. She looked to the nearest camera and whispered again. "Helix...can you...hear me?"

    The camera''s status light blinked as the A.I. answered in a muted voice. "Yes. Please proceed to Edith''s lab; there is something you need to know."

    Fii stood up and reached out a hand to rest on Quinn''s arm. "Can you keep watch over the clinic for a bit? Something doesn''t feel right here. Just let me know if there''s trouble."

    He shrugged and gave her a lopsided smile. "Don''t sweat it. I''ll watch out for Sheri...just go do what you gotta do."

    She gave Quinn a grateful nod as she stepped out.

    Once Fii left the clinic floor and reached the basement lab, her footsteps faltered; her body was worn out¡ªheavy and slow¡ªher head pounding in pain...everything about her movements labored and sluggish. A grimace passed her lips. She didn''t even have the energy left to protest or speak aloud. It felt as though each step had her trudging through quicksand.

    With a great heave of effort, she managed to push her way past the basement lab''s entrance and wobbled down the staircase.

    In the middle of the cluttered laboratory space, two bodies lay sprawled out¡ªone belonged to Kasumi, dressed in a plain shirt and sweatpants...the other...Fii paused.

    The other was that Adrenomancer woman from before. Blood pooled around the woman''s head and formed a sanguine halo in the shaded darkness.

    Fii approached slowly to kneel by Kasumi''s prone form. Her breath hitched as she gently laid a hand on the woman''s neck. There was a pulse. A slight incline of Kasumi''s chest indicated steady breaths as well. Relief surged through her; the woman was just unconscious.

    "Helix. What happened? Where''s Edith?"

    [Fii.] The A.I.''s voice projected from the lab''s speakers with a dull tone.

    [Dr. Edith had been captured by Salvatore while you were away. Her abductor was this Adrenomancer woman, who returned to try and destroy the lab. Kasumi intervened.]

    What? Fii blinked at the A.I.''s explanation.

    How did he know about Edith''s relationship with her? Did Fii somehow slip and allow them to trace her back to the clinic? Even if she had, how did they figure out her connection to Edith? Why would they take the doctor? This didn''t make sense...unless¡ª

    "Helix, do you think Salvatore knows about..."

    [You being the success of Dr. Edith''s metahuman gene therapy research? I cannot say...however...it would seem likely.]

    The A.I.''s words trailed off, the monotone voice returning to an uncomfortable volume.

    [Edith had hidden the results of her experiment¡ªused her research as a bargaining chip for her safety...but I am unable to determine what became of her...and there has been no reply on the comm-link.]

    Fii''s fists clenched at her sides.

    This wasn''t fair. Everything was fine until Salvatore came into the picture. Now Kenzo''s dead, Virgil is badly hurt, the clinic was ransacked, Edith...Edith is missing...and for what? Fii clenched her teeth¡ªto bite back the helplessness and grief.

    Helix''s voice echoed through the lab, through the space between them, bringing her out of her thoughts.

    [Dr. Edith''s wish was to keep you safe...as much as possible. Her abduction was not your fault...as much as that may feel otherwise. She has her own convictions, views, and motivation; do not ever doubt her decision and judgment. The circumstances leading up to this moment were merely...poor...timing. For now, recuperate and let the events settle...then we can begin planning for her rescue.]

    Fii shut her eyes. She let out a breath to ease the tension in her limbs. After a brief moment to collect herself, she picked up Kasumi with ease. "Okay...okay...I get it. I''m bringing Kasumi to her room."

    She slowly made her way to the staircase¡ªup and out of the dim lab.

    Helix was right. If she got herself all worked up...she wouldn''t be much use to anyone. Virgil would be okay. Edith''s would be okay. The more rational part of her¡ªthe rational part of her that was starting to sound like Edith¡ªtold her this would require a level head. If Edith trusted her this much, then she had to keep herself together¡ªdo whatever she could to get Edith back...safe.

    For now, Fii needed to recover, tend to her wounds...and make a plan to rescue her.

    Before that, the one thing she was dreading to do was to break the news to Kasumi about Kenzo.

 Chapter 81: Square One

    The armored SUV rumbled through the outskirts of the Slums, each jolt and sway punctuating Edith''s thoughts with a grim finality. Her pale fingers traced idle patterns on her metallic briefcase as she sat, surrounded by the silent, blank expressions of her captors.

    They approached the colossal structure known as The Wall¡ªthe border wall that divided the slums and the metropolis, its sheer size a testament to the chasm between the two worlds. Massive sentry guns turned with mechanical precision¡ªscanning for the identifying implant signal all residents of the metropolis bore within their body.

    It wasn''t the ideal scenario when it came to returning to the metropolis, but in the end, there was no other way; Edith was coming back¡ªwhether she wanted to or not.

    A wry smile curled her lips, tinged with a bitterness she savored like a rare spice.

    The SUV rolled to a stop at a security checkpoint. MetSec guards, clad in sleek uniforms, approached the vehicle with light tactical armor, combat helmets, and mechanized weapons at the ready. Edith smoothed out her hair and shifted the glasses on the bridge of her nose.

    Suddenly, a massive tremor shook the ground and rattled the walls around them.

    MetSec officers shouted and scrambled as debris rained down from the upper levels. In the confusion, the guards surrounding the armored van were thrown off balance. They stumbled and fell in an unprofessional heap. One guard even slipped on a puddle and landed on their back. The SUV shook as if caught in a powerful riptide.

    Then as quickly as it came, the tremor ceased. The dust settled.

    What the hell just happened happened? An earthquake? No. It was way too brief. Could it have been an explosion?

    But there were no other signs of something big going off. Whatever this was, it was a surprise to both parties.

    As the shaken MetSec personnel regained their composure, they approached the SUV once again. The officer in charge flashed a badge at the van''s opaque windscreen. The dark glass dissolved into light, revealing Edith and the others. The officer took a moment to scan the passengers with a handheld scanner before speaking.

    "Stay put at this checkpoint. We need to check for damages from that quake. No one''s allowed in until we get confirmation from HQ," the officer ordered. His posture and expression betrayed his unease; the man glanced over his shoulders every few seconds. Then he turned and walked back to his station.

    Edith''s escorts didn''t seem bothered. Not outwardly at least; as far as she could tell, they had already recovered their usual unreadable, yet professional demeanor.

    "Well..." she murmured to no one in particular. "It certainly seems we''ll be sitting here for a while."

    <hr>

    Eventually, the MetSec guard returned. IDs were scanned, weapons and contraband verified in the checkpoint''s light field, and gave the all clear. "...alright! Let them through," she heard him say.

    The Wall''s massive gate slid open with a grinding hiss, revealing the world she had been exiled from. With a lurch, the SUV continued toward the city limits. Once the vehicle passed through, her escorts began to relax, each shifting away from military-like discipline to a more casual state.

    The transition was immediate and jarring. The squalor of the slums fell away like a shed skin, replaced by the gleaming, ordered efficiency of the Metropolis.

    She sat back with a quiet sigh and gazed out the window at the cityscape.

    Glass-windowed skyscrapers broke the skyline with clean edges and polished trim, jutting upward like spears. Aerial vehicles darted to and fro amid a flock of drones¡ªsome marked with the symbols and logos of various businesses or agencies.

    Even the sidewalks here were marked and segmented into ordered lanes¡ªwatching out for people and autonomous traffic as the walkways themselves performed an efficient dance with preprogrammed choreography. It all combined to make the city move with a harmonized order...all people serving a function and playing their part¡ªlike cogs in an engine.

    She pulled away from the window...wishing her mind hadn''t led her on this walk down memory lane...where everything had seemed so simple back then. When she had the world at her fingertips. Now...well...now it was just a reminder of how she''d lost all that she''d held dear...how she''d thrown it all away¡ªif she wanted to be truly honest with herself.

    The SUV continued its journey, now navigating the meticulously maintained roads in silence...as she settled back into her thoughts. Every traffic signal was aligned, every curve and edge smooth...not a single spec of litter to be seen. Each of the vehicles driving along the city''s streets had an almost mechanical uniformity as they navigated in preprogrammed patterns.

    After an hour, the SUV began to slow...and stopped. One of the enforcers wordlessly opened the door to allow her out. With her briefcase in hand, Edith stepped onto the curb and turned to face an all too familiar skyscraper...the Genomics Labs¡ªher former place of employment...now just a cold and imposing place¡ªwith more painful memories to give...than warm recollections to receive.

    She stepped toward the double-glass doors¡ªthrough a vestibule¡ªand into the lobby beyond. An elaborate holo-waterfall gurgled from a wall on her left. It flowed between sleek sculptures...immaculate trim...a topiary of grass and hedges...a huge desk to her right manned by a secretary.

    Her escort, a taciturn man whose eyes revealed nothing of his thoughts, maintained a professional distance. He swiped a badge across a panel on the desk and ushered Edith forward; she strolled into the atrium to stand before a massive vid-screen displaying a current list of successes from the corporation¡ªimages and names flitting past in a rapid blur¡ªpresumably showcasing all of their great achievements. She glared at the screen.

    If only people knew about the hidden nature of these "achievements," what secrets and research these successes meant...but the public had to be kept in the dark for the sake of maintaining the peace. Or at least, that''s what the Syndicate-in-the-corporations said to their flunkies like Edith¡ªas they reminded her of her status¡ªof where her position put her...how useful she could be to their plans.

    But all things come with checks and balances; her role allowed her to dictate their vision¡ªeven if they could ultimately stop her or impose restrictions to what she did¡ªto where her research could take her...what her limits were. It was all a fine balance between what they wanted and what she could provide.

    The government and ethics commission ensured she worked within the framework of what the world had deemed acceptable...they reminded her of her duty to the metropolis and all its people...not just its sponsors or patrons. All within reason.

    Edith knew what they meant by within reason. How they stretched the meaning of the words and used it against her. To prevent her from digging too deep...to prevent her from ever going off the beaten path or endeavoring into an impossible hypothesis.

    They''d wanted the results¡ªwanted the innovation and potential implications. The scientists and technocrats always did...but that path...that path led to the only real weapon she''d had at her disposal...a weapon that gave her leverage¡ªher Metahuman serum.

    Finally, after waiting a few more moments, an elevator¡ªimposing in its own right¡ªsqueaked open with a dignified ding. Its occupant¡ªdressed in the blue lab coat uniform¡ªstrode forward with purposeful strides, an ID badge pinned to his jacket; his curly, grey hair and even greyer goatee perfectly coiffed...a contrast to the piercing eyes hidden behind rectangular spectacles. His hawkish face settled into an impassive gaze as he came to a halt before her.

    "Welcome back to Genomics. Let''s skip the pleasantries¡ªshall we? Dr. Salvatore is expecting you in his office." He flicked a dismissive hand and turned. Without a backward glance, he walked off, his lab coat trailing behind him.

    Edith shook her head and followed; the rest of the group¡ªas well as her taciturn enforcer¡ªclosed ranks around her and the man in blue. Her eyes settled on the grey-haired man''s nametag...the only formality he''d been able to uphold. His name was Dr. Luca Kinney...her former direct supervisor¡ªwho had always been more interested in chasing an imaginary ledger than his actual job.

    Kinney led them into a spacious elevator and tapped a panel on the wall. He keyed in a code¡ªbizarrely elaborate¡ªwith more combinations than there were floors in the building. When he finished...a tinny voice welcomed him and acknowledged the "passphrase"¡ªits tone warm. "Welcome back Vice Director Kinney¡ªI see you''ve brought guests."

    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    The elevator¡ªkeying off Kinney''s response¡ªwhirred as it slid shut and began to descend¡ªher stomach fluttering in response.

    For a minute...maybe two...there was silence as the elevator made its journey; she leaned back against the wall...tried to steel her nerves...but for all her stoicism...she couldn''t shake the sensation of coming full circle...returning to her past.

    There would be no breaking from what had transpired here; she would have to deal with this new circumstance...just as she had when they''d banished her to the Slums.

    So...so be it.

    The elevator ground to a stop...and opened¡ªto a hallway decorated with paintings of various lab techs through the centuries...set against sleek black walls and ambient lighting. Each of the scientists seemed to have their own unique spin to their lab coats...some formal...others outlandish...but all striving toward the same goal: the advancement of technology and science.

    A familiar phrase hung suspended in a display case. "Technology unshackled...improving lives one day at a time."

    They moved like a small but purposeful fleet; they marched past several rooms...stopping at an impassive steel door labeled "Director Salvatore." Another biometric scanner awaited her approach as her taciturn enforcer lagged a step behind¡ªunneeded...unwanted...and quite frankly...in the way.

    Kinney waited next to her and tapped his foot impatiently. He gestured toward the scanner; Edith extended her hand. As she laid her hand flat on the scanner¡ªa laser pinged to verify the reading...and with a whoosh...the door slid open...revealing a dimly lit chamber.

    Soft ambient music filled the air from hidden speakers, and the room''s d¨¦cor¡ªif that was the right word¡ªappeared as a sea of scattered lab reports on various tables. Each of the report''s data¡ªexpressed as numbers, figures, and notes¡ªwas projected from the scattered paperworks as they orbited a lone figure.

    He sat in the room''s sole chair, surrounded by his papers, at a massive, disheveled desk¡ªnot bothering to turn around. The room smelled of earthy tones and old cigarettes. He idly scrolled through the holoscreen mounted to his desk; a golden watch, clinking on its chain, dangled from a belt loop on his right.

    With a stately walk, as if she owned the place, Edith strode inside; the door slid shut behind her as the rest of the group lingered in the hallway...their forms mere blurs through the translucent glass.

    She stopped. For a few long minutes...she stood...waiting¡ªhoping her legs wouldn''t betray her by shaking, while the man at the desk kept to his work¡ªas though she hadn''t even entered the room...her existence becoming nothing more than a ghost of his imagination.

    Eventually, as she suspected he would, he took off his glasses¡ªclipping them to the pocket on his coat. He ran his fingers through his shaggy locks and sighed. Salvatore, whose entire attention had been captured by the work on his desk, spoke up without turning to look at her.

    "You''ll be happy to know that all the forces I sent to cause a bit of mayhem in the slums have been...excised." His words held a mocking lilt; he paused¡ªto glance at something on his screen¡ªbefore continuing. "Your little...prot¨¦g¨¦...and Backfire, did most of the work. They''re alive, if you''re wondering."

    The last was muttered with a tone of grudging respect...almost an admission. Edith caught her breath but otherwise maintained a neutral expression.

    The corner of Salvatore''s lips tugged downward in a wry smile; his hand paused over a data pad, finger poised. "Still, this was a considerable loss of my resources. My first priority will be to consolidate...regroup and whatnot." He glanced back over his shoulder, and she could finally get a good look at his face.

    Rugged features and piercing green eyes that could probably command the room with ease. Even though his dark hair was styled to look messy, with flecks of grey in some places, he''d done little to hide the smooth lines of his face. Everything about this man¡ªthe way he talked, his clothing, his demeanor¡ªscreamed an understated form of wealth and class.

    Edith merely smiled cooly, arms clasped behind her back. "And what about my clinic? I''m sure you send your goons to try and scrape whatever data or secrets you believe I was hiding there."

    "I figured you expected the clinic to be a target and prepared accordingly." Salvatore tilted his head. "I sent Mirage to scour the place. Unfortunately, she had been killed by whatever contingency you''d left there. Alas, I don''t have the personnel to attempt a second raid...and...if we''re being frank here...the data you possess is enough to offset my losses."

    His words dripped with false compassion...ending on an equally fake note. He twirled his pen, and his features hardened...steely gaze piercing her¡ªhis mood shifting back to a casual cruelty.

    "But enough of that," he said dismissively. "I know how you enjoy these games...the cat-and-mouse routine." With a sharp movement, Salvatore swiveled his chair to face her fully.

    The corners of his eyes crinkled in amusement. "You came to me relatively willing...which means...I have something you need just as much as you have something I need."

    Edith managed a razor-thin smile of her own as she crossed the distance between them; her heels clacked with each step¡ªeach movement measured¡ªeach footstep weighted with expectation...and danger. Her tone¡ªeven to her own ears¡ªheld a tone of disconnected politeness. She stopped when her thighs pressed against the side of his desk.

    "We could play these games all day." Her gaze never wavered from his¡ªpinning him under its weight...but also hinting at a lingering exhaustion...a forced civility. "However...you already have me...here...at your mercy. So why don''t we dispense with the pleasantries and get right down to business."

    She tapped one slender finger on the briefcase she carried.

    "My Metahuman serum is far from perfect¡ªAxion is probably a one-in-a-billion fluke...if not a coincidence¡ªand while I would normally turn your offer down flat...I recently found out that your Adrenomancer drug might work together to achieve greater efficacy. So...here I am." She lifted the case up¡ªputting it down with a slight thump as she leveled him with a smirk.

    "Tell me...exactly...what it is you want...so we can move past this." Her fingers tensed¡ªrelaxed...then drummed the metallic casing once again¡ªletting her confidence ooze into her voice. "I''m sure we have a lot more to...discuss."

    Salvatore¡ªthat rarest of expressions¡ªhad the grace to appear slightly...nonplussed. He collected himself, crossing his legs to prop up a clipboard, a slight furrow marring his brow.

    "Oh? I was expecting a little more...sparring...banter...word games. And yet...here we are. That was almost refreshing...I almost admire how straightforward you''re being...a shame really. In any event...there is one more condition for our partnership...if I could even call it that." Salvatore pushed himself out of his chair and casually strode over to a window.

    The skyline of the metropolis could be seen¡ªjagged lines of buildings standing against a backdrop of the morning''s sunrise. With a practiced wave of his fingers, he caused the holographic projections and the notes to scatter¡ªto retreat back into a semblance of order. Salvatore moved over to the window with a lightness to his step.

    His features took on a calm resolve, the face of someone who had a plan. It made Edith wary...cautionary.

    "Something unexpected happened in the aftermath of my foray into the slums. There have been...complications." A slight grimace and a troubled sigh punctuated his words. "Prime had descended into the slums himself to...deal with the matter."

    Edith''s eyes widened involuntarily; the cool demeanor slipped from her face. It took an effort to school her features back into their earlier neutral expression. Her mind raced.

    Oh no... Out of all the heroes that she thought would come...this wasn''t in her plan. A seed of dread gnawed at her gut.

    Prime. Leader of the Ultimate Guardians. The hero of all heroes. She''d calculated¡ªcalculated¡ªthat there wouldn''t be a response so immediate. What was worse was that he had a history with Virgil.

    If they encountered Prime...or rather...when they encountered Prime...then...then...

    "And now Prime is dead," Salvatore added dispassionately, not seeming to care or notice the fact he had broken Edith''s mental chain of thoughts. His features became placid. He waited¡ªpaused for a moment¡ªwith an impassive expression and gazed out at the city beyond the window.

    W-What?! The world came to a screeching halt. Everything before this was within Edith''s calculations¡ªher expectations...but this...this was completely outside her understanding.

    "Did Virgil kill him?" Edith asked weakly.

    He was the only one who could possibly lay a scratch on Prime...the only one who came even close. If this had happened...then...

    "No...Prime was killed by your prot¨¦g¨¦¡ªAxion," Salvatore remarked bluntly.

    Edith reeled. The briefcase clattered to the floor. She reached out with her fingers to grab the desk''s edge¡ªsteady herself...pull her thoughts together.

    Fii managed to beat Prime? Kill him?! This...this...she...she must have somehow...caught him off-guard.

    She ran through a thousand scenarios...a hundred thousand explanations. Fii had barely been a Metahuman for half a year and now she had become powerful enough to kill one of the most powerful Metahumans in the world... How?

    As if reading her mind, Salvatore raised an eyebrow in her direction. "It appears your little...Axion...is going to become a rather prominent figure in the world stage. The upper echelon of the Metropolis now has their sights on her. I want want her on my side. I need you to sway her to work for me...one way...or the other...before they swoop in. Surely you''ve guessed¡ªwith your keen intellect¡ªmy contingency." He fixed her with a dark look.

    His veiled threat and underlying meaning were obvious, but her mind still latched on to this monumental achievement. Fii''s sheer power was¡ªwas...unfathomable...her potential...she had severely underestimated the girl.

    Edith covered her mouth with a shaky hand, head slightly bowed. A grin slowly spread across her lips as her gaze rose to meet his¡ªan appreciative gaze.

    Her shoulders shook from held-in laughter¡ªall in an effort to contain her excitement and understanding of what Fii''s accomplishment meant. She willed herself to speak past her delirium.

    "Is...is that all...Dr. Salvatore?" she asked with a raspy tone. It had become almost painful to keep her emotions in check. Edith took a step forward and bent down¡ªtapping the briefcase with a trembling finger.

    Her smile spread into a crazed smirk...her gaze never leaving his. She watched with a sense of perverse triumph at how uncomfortable she made him.

    This...this could actually work. Plan A has never been so promising.

 Chapter 82: Slumdog Hero

    The day was gray and quiet, the kind of day that felt heavy, like something was waiting to happen. It was in the shadow of the Tower of Songs where the people gathered. The building stood tall, its walls lined with the echoes of melodies past, some of joy, others of sorrow, all mingling into a symphony that seemed to breathe life into the tired bricks. The slums stretched around it, homes huddled together like old friends sharing secrets.

    Fii walked through the crowd slowly. Her eyes were somber, reflecting the overcast sky above, her face devoid of the usual bright expression she wore. She moved like one who knew each step took her closer to something inevitable, something necessary. Her worn sneakers scuffed against the uneven ground, each footfall a muted thump on the cracked concrete.

    She had walked this path many times, each step ingrained in her memory, but today it felt different. She felt the weight of the past few days pressing down on her, a physical thing that seemed to settle on her shoulders, making each breath a conscious effort.

    Around her, the people of the slums moved with a quiet dignity. They were dressed in simple clothes, the kind worn by those who knew the meaning of a hard day''s work. Men and women, young and old, they all carried the weight of life in the slums, but today they carried it like a badge of honor. The weight had a purpose.

    They were here not just to mourn but to stand together, to show that even in the face of sorrow, the spirit of their community could not be broken.

    The Tower of Songs loomed ahead, its facade marked by time and weather. It was an old structure, one that had seen better days, but it stood resilient, much like the people who sought refuge in its embrace. It had once been something else, something less noble, but now it was a sanctuary for those who found solace in music and art.

    The courtyard before the tower was a sea of faces, a gathering of those who Kenzo¡¯s music had touched. His bandmates, the members of Shunkash¨±t¨­, were scattered among the crowd, their instruments clutched like lifelines. There was a stillness to them, a heavy silence that was more eloquent than any words could be.

    Fii¡¯s eyes swept over the crowd, noting the diversity of those gathered. A young woman stood with a baby strapped to her chest, her eyes red-rimmed from crying. Next to her stood an older man, his stooped frame draped in a battered jacket, a single tear trailing down his grizzled cheek.

    Even gangs who had long feuded with each other stood shoulder to shoulder, united in grief and respect. Fii smiled grimly at the sight, knowing it was only momentary.

    People nodded to her as she passed, some with a smile, others with a tearful glance. They knew her now not just as Fii but as Axion.

    Word had spread of her true identity and her defeat of Prime. She tried not to think too hard about the consequences of killing the Metropolis''s top hero...it didn''t feel real.

    She continued weaving her way through the crowd, eventually finding herself near the front. The stage where Kenzo was to be laid to rest stood before her, a makeshift set of steps leading up to its dusty platform. An open casket lay upon the stage, the body inside still and quiet.

    Fii swallowed past the lump in her throat, her eyes stinging with unshed tears. She wanted so badly to turn back time, to somehow prevent this tragedy. But she knew it was a futile wish; the damage was done. She forced herself to push on.

    The sound of footsteps came to her ears as Kasumi reached her side.

    Fii glanced to the side to find Kasumi''s eyes fixed forward as she stared at Kenzo''s body. She looked almost like she was expecting to see Kenzo sit back up and say that he was only kidding. Fii knew the feeling all too well.

    "He would hate this," Kasumi finally murmured, her voice quiet and subdued. "He would have wanted something low key...something private, just for those closest to him." Her gaze drifted away from the body, landing somewhere on the far horizon.

    Fii nodded silently, unable to find the words to express how she felt. So much had happened in the past few days, and she still hadn''t come to terms with all of it. She sighed and wiped a tear from her cheek.

    Kasumi''s eyes flicked over to Fii briefly, then returned to the stage. Fii could see a storm brewing in her gaze, and she feared what would come when it finally broke.

    "Tell me," Kasumi said after a long moment. "Did you make that bastard suffer before you killed him?"

    Fii winced at Kasumi''s harsh tone, but she had expected some reaction like this.

    "I crushed Prime until he was less than a speck of dust," she answered truthfully. It sounded strange to her own ears; it was so far removed from how she usually spoke...it wasn''t like her at all¡ªbut her heart was hardened. A small, vengeful part of her reveled in the brutality of those words¡ªa dark part of her.

    "Good," Kasumi whispered fiercely. She fell silent, and the two stood there together as the crowd began to murmur in hushed voices. The ceremony was about to begin.

    The first strains of music rose from the crowd like a phoenix from the ashes. It was a song Fii had heard many times before but never like this. The melody floated into the air, carried on the wings of sorrow and hope. It was a fitting tribute for someone who had meant so much to so many.

    Fii watched as Shunkash¨±t¨­ took the stage one by one. Each musician took their place, each instrument held in solemn reverence.

    They played without speaking, letting their music speak for them. As the last note faded from the air, each member stepped to the casket. One by one they placed an object inside with trembling hands: an old photo of the group together smiling; an ornate guitar pick inscribed with Kenzo''s name; a crumpled set list stained with sweat and tears; a torn and faded piece of sheet music with Kenzo''s handwriting scrawled across its surface; and finally, the bouquet of purple hyacinths clutched in Kasumi''s fist.

    They were beautiful flowers and they symbolized forgiveness. But Fii also recognized another meaning...sorrow...pain...regret.

    Fii took a step forward¡ªhesitant...uncertain. She didn''t know if she should follow. She paused before taking a deep breath and closing her eyes. With slow and careful footsteps, she climbed the stairs to the stage and gazed upon Kenzo''s body once more. A single tear ran down her cheek and fell upon the white satin cloth lining the casket.

    Her lips curled in a half-hearted smile; she wanted to say something, anything...but no words came. Instead, she bent down and tucked a strand of hair behind his cold, stiff ear.

    Reaching into her backpack, she pulled out the remains of her broken helmet and laid it beside his folded hands. It wasn''t much of a memorial but it was all she had. With another tearful gaze, Fii turned away and descended the steps.

    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    The crowd was silent as Fii crossed the courtyard and disappeared into the sea of faces, lost in her own thoughts. She had done what she had come to do. It was time to move on.

    The sky rumbled as she walked away.

    <hr>

    Fii walked through the Rust Market like a ghost drifting through a dream. People passed by her in a blur of color and sound but she paid them no heed.

    She entered Rao''s shop and sat on a worn stool, her shoulders hunched forward as she stared at her shoes.

    Rao looked up from his workbench, his keen eyes softening at the sight of her. He wiped his hands on a rag and walked over to her side. His face held a somber expression as he asked quietly. "You alright?"

    Fii nodded but said nothing. She couldn''t bring herself to speak, not yet anyway. Her throat felt tight as she tried to keep from crying again. She had cried enough.

    Rao sighed as he leaned against the wall, his eyes distant as he gazed out the window. "Only met him a couple of times, but he was a good guy. A good voice for the slums. Made us remember we could be more than just scraps. I wish I could have known him better."

    Fii nodded again, her eyes still fixed on the floor. The rain outside picked up in intensity; a steady patter filled the room as rivulets of water trickled down the glass. They sat together in silence until eventually Rao spoke up again.

    "So, all this time...you were Axion, huh?" The statement was matter-of-fact, no trace of accusation or anger. Rao''s eyes remained focused on the downpour outside as he waited for her response.

    The corners of Fii''s mouth lifted into a faint smile as she answered. "Yep."

    There was a certain sense of relief as she spoke the words, an almost weightless sensation in her chest as she let go of the secret she had been harboring all these months.

    Rao gave a quiet chuckle and shook his head. "I should have known. Ever since you showed up lookin'' all glowed-up, I had my suspicions. Heh, guess you were a late bloomer, eh?" His hand moved to pat her shoulder lightly before moving back to the counter. He fiddled with some parts on his workbench.

    Fii laughed softly in return, her mood lifting slightly. "You could say that."

    She sat quietly for a while, the only sound being the rain falling outside. She listened to it for a bit before speaking again. "Sorry for not telling you."

    Rao shrugged, his attention still focused on the gadgets on the desk. "Wasn''t your secret to tell." He paused as a wisp of steam drifted from one of the devices he was working on. It hissed and popped like a little dragon''s breath as he muttered a curse. "And to be honest, it was probably for the best. I wouldn''t have been able to keep my mouth shut about it."

    Fii chuckled. "Probably not," she conceded. She could only imagine Rao crowing about her heroics to anyone within earshot. He would have turned her exploits into some kind of urban legend. His enthusiasm was infectious; her eyes crinkled ever so slightly as another soft giggle escaped her lips. The heavy feeling in her chest lightened.

    Rao caught her amused expression and cracked a smile of his own. "Still. Now that everyone knows who you are, you''d best be more careful. The gangs will want you for themselves...especially now. And there''s no doubt more than a few folks out there who ain''t happy you put an end to Prime''s reign."

    His tone became more serious as he went on. "People fear what they can''t understand and right now...well...you''ve just become the greatest mystery in the slums."

    Fii nodded; she understood the unspoken warnings behind Rao''s words. Things were going to become more dangerous.

    "I''ll be careful," she promised.

    Rao grunted in acknowledgement as he resumed work on the gadget before him. Fii watched in silence as he tinkered with the device. The rain continued to fall outside. It was comforting.

    "What happens now?" Fii asked softly.

    She didn''t really expect an answer but she had to ask. Things had changed so much since she started out and now...well...now everything seemed like it had just blown up in her face. What was she supposed to do? There was no clear path ahead of her.

    Edith had been abducted by Salvatore, and Virgil was still recovering in the clinic. The three people she had come to rely on for guidance were all gone or too injured to help her. Now...it was just her. No plan. No guidance. She felt lost. Adrift.

    "Don''t look so worried," Rao chided gently as he glanced her way. His eyes were kind. "You''ll figure it out. You''re a survivor...just like me...just like everyone who lives in these streets." His voice held a confidence that she wasn''t quite sure she felt herself. He looked back down at his work with a faint smirk.

    "And besides...if you get stuck...I''m still here." His eyes darted upwards again, filled with mischief. "Though...if you still need some tinks, I could use another pair of hands...on a part-time basis." He emphasized his statement by throwing a wrench into the air. It arced gracefully through the air¡ªbounded off his open palm¡ªand clattered into a pile on his workbench¡ªa shower of metal and bolts.

    His features held a smug expression. "Of course...only when you''re not too busy running around keeping order...or whatever you heroes do."

    Fii laughed, the first full laugh since the whole ordeal. It lifted her spirits. "Deal." She grinned widely and stood from her seat. "Thanks for the talk, Rao. I really needed that."

    Rao gave her an offhand wave as he continued tinkering with his contraptions.

    With a quiet laugh, she stepped out the door and onto the streets.

    The rain had lightened to a steady drizzle, though there was a chill in the air as evening drew near. The Rust Market had mostly emptied out; the shops were shuttered tight against the weather. Only those who had nowhere else to go were still milling about.

    Fii pulled her hood over her head and began walking toward the clinic. Her mind raced as she ran through all the things she would need to do. Edith was still out there. She needed to find some way of getting her back. Virgil needed someone to look after him while he recovered.

    There were others that needed her help. The aftermath of Salvatore''s assault had left its scars behind...the gangs were more active than ever and she could hardly walk a block without stumbling onto some sort of fight or turf skirmish.

    She sighed, running a hand through her damp hair. It felt like everyone was waiting for her to do...something. For now, she just had to do what she could on her own.

    <hr>

    Fii found herself back at Edith''s lab, alone and at a loss for direction. With Virgil''s injury leaving him incapacitated, and Edith gone...Fii''s path ahead seemed unclear. She sighed and sat down on the cold floor. Her thoughts turned to the past. Back to the event that led to her life being changed forever.

    She needed to get Edith back from Salvatore''s clutches. That much was clear. Fii owed her that much. For all the time they spent together¡ªand the secrets that remained unspoken...she felt a certain obligation.

    After all...without Edith¡ªand the serum¡ªshe never would have become Axion in the first place...and she certainly wouldn''t be where she was right now. It wasn''t something that she liked to dwell upon...but it was a debt that couldn''t be ignored.

    Fii leaned her head back against the wall and let out another sigh. "Helix. Are you sure Edith is going to be okay until I can rescue her?"

    The nearby computer chimed as the AI responded. "Dr. Weiss is unlikely to come to physical harm at this point. Salvatore will most likely wish to use her as an asset in his research, which will likely span months or years." There was a pause as if the AI were hesitating before adding, "Haste is not advised in this case. I recommend proceeding with other aspects of your daily life and continue to grow in experience and strength in preparation."

    "Mm...yeah...I guess that makes sense," Fii admitted with a grimace. "It''s still hard though...to leave her there like that."

    She idly drummed her fingers against her knees as she stared off into the distance. "How about you? What are you gonna do now without Edith around?"

    There was a brief silence before Helix answered again. "In case of her absence, I have been instructed to aid you and Sheri in maintaining her operations...until such a time that she is recovered."

    Fii smiled wryly as she stood from her spot on the floor and made her way over to the computer terminal. "Is that so? Thanks...I''ll try not to be a burden on you." She leaned closer to the screen; the holographic display reflected in her eyes as she scrolled through the list of open files and notes. There were many technical details, medical terms, and genetic coding she didn''t understand¡ªbut enough for her to catch a glimpse of Edith''s genius.

    She shook her head in amazement as she straightened from her hunched position. "Edith really is something...isn''t she?" The words tumbled from her lips as she looked up towards the ceiling absentmindedly¡ªas if addressing an unseen being.

    Hang in there, Edith. I''ll figure something out. Just need time. For now...let me take care of the slums.

 Book One Epilogue

    Virgil ate his can of beans in silence while Sheri sat by his side. The meal was bland and tasteless but he didn''t care; at least the heat would distract him from how sore his body was. His eyes wandered up the length of Sheri''s arm to settle on the bandages peeking through the sleeve of her top.

    News of Edith''s abduction came out of left field...he hadn''t expected that. Something didn''t add up.

    Was it because she tried uncovering Salvatore''s chemical formula from the Adrenomancer? He mentally scratched that idea. That made no sense...Salvatore didn''t leave loose ends untied; he was thorough. If he considered something¡ªor someone¡ªa threat...they weren''t around long enough to worry about. Maybe Edith uncovered something else...another plot or scheme.

    At least she was alive. Abducting her meant Salvatore wanted her to work for him...or do something for him. Which meant she still had leverage. Which also meant Salvatore may let Edith live for longer if she kept cooperating...or if he managed to get whatever he needed done, finished sooner than later.

    Of course, that brought along the problem of retrieving her; even injured as he was...the odds of successfully finding her and freeing her from Salvatore were slim to none. No...he couldn''t rush into things...he needed more intel. This was one fight he couldn''t win with brawn and guns¡ªhe needed to think things through.

    Sheri''s worried stare broke him out of his thoughts. She must have sensed his tension. He forced himself to relax¡ªrelax and eat. Nothing good ever came from worrying about stuff he had no control over.

    "How''s Fii coming along?" he asked casually.

    The question earned him a small smile. "She''s doing well," she answered as she adjusted her glasses. "Considering all that''s happened...she''s been really strong...pulling through despite everything."

    He knew all too well what that girl was made of. Despite all the tragedies Salvatore''s attack caused, it tempered Fii''s resolve and grit¡ªit hardened her against adversity and pain. She had to learn to bring the hammer down when push came to shove; there was no room to hesitate when lives were on the line.

    The faint trace of a smile came unbidden, but soon turned into a frown.

    Kenzo''s death left a mark on him. It hurt. Despite their history, Virgil still held a certain respect and admiration for him. He was more of a hero than any of the egotistic, self-glorifying Metahumans in the metropolis. If circumstances had been different, Kenzo could''ve changed the face of the slums...for the better. And he would''ve kept the spirit of the people alive and well. A damn shame if there ever was one.

    But at least Fii managed to put an end to Prime once and for all. Prime had become more of a hindrance than help, twisting the ideals set by the founders of the Metropolis. His reign had become a tyranny.

    Maybe now...with him out of the way...hopefully the good guys could start doing good without having to play the game of political bullshit. Things could only go uphill from here.

    His main concern now was with Fii.

    No doubt Kenzo''s death had left its mark. The kid needed to find closure. He could only imagine the conflicting emotions she must have felt...the grief. She''d be fine in time, that much he could safely say.

    What he wasn''t so sure of...was how she would acclimate to her rapid growth in power. No Metahuman had ever made this sort of jump so fast. Not even him, not even Prime.

    There was no telling what effect such speedy development might have on her. He needed to keep a close eye on her. For everyone''s sake.

    That night, she had been forced to kill. It may have been for the greater good...but it took its toll on the psyche. He knew.

    One slip. That was all it took to start a dark downward spiral. He didn''t want that to happen to her¡ªnot someone like her. She was different. Innocent. Na?ve in so many ways despite the struggles she went through daily. There was a light inside her that couldn''t be snuffed out no matter how hard life threw curveballs at her. The world needed more like her¡ªdespite what he said or did otherwise.

    <hr>

    Fii casually walked up the side of the Tower of Songs, her gravikinesis letting her cling to its surface with ease. After several moments, she reached a window sill¡ªpulled herself onto the ledge¡ªand swung herself up to sit atop the crumbling edifice.

    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    A quiet sigh left her lips as she took a moment to stare at the setting sun. She had come here for some peace and quiet¡ªjust a few moments away from the usual hustle and bustle to gather her thoughts.

    The sky above was ablaze with hues of pink and purple; streaks of gold danced across the clouds as they lazily drifted past. The air was still warm from the afternoon heat, though a breeze carried whispers of cooler evenings to come. Fii leaned back against the rough concrete and gazed out into the horizon.

    The slums stretched far below her perch, an endless expanse of dilapidated buildings and makeshift structures built from whatever was at hand. Interspersed throughout the city were large sections of densely packed shanties where even more desperate souls eked out an existence¡ªhoping for nothing more than enough food and shelter to make it another day.

    Beyond the outskirts lay the gleaming towers of the Metropolis behind The Wall. The contrast between the two worlds couldn''t have been starker.

    A crackle of noise from her earpiece interrupted her thoughts. She tapped at the device lightly as its low hum faded in and out.

    "Hey, Fii¡ªerr, I mean Axion." Quinn''s voice came through clearly for once as he adjusted the signal. It had taken him a while to figure out how to work the signal boosters Rao had rigged together. But now, the comm link was stable and secure¡ªa welcome convenience.

    "Are you doing okay?" The sound of his breathing filtered over the device as she pondered the question.

    "I''m okay," she finally said as she idly traced shapes on the concrete beneath her fingertips. "Just taking a breather until my next patrol."

    The wind rustled her hair as a soft sigh escaped her lips. She closed her eyes and rested her head against the cool stone behind her. "How about you?" she asked quietly.

    There was a pause on the line before he answered. "I''ve been busy with the repairs and all but..." His voice trailed off briefly before coming back to life with renewed energy. "Well, yeah...good! Busy as ever...can''t complain. Just got these new upgrades for the drones¡ªthat''s what I''ve been tinkering with lately."

    "That sounds nice." A faint smile played across her lips as she listened. She appreciated the small talk.

    A slight pause came over the line; there was an unasked question hanging in the air¡ªnot being said...but present.

    Fii could imagine the nervous frown gracing Quinn''s features as he gathered up the courage to speak his mind.

    "Say...we haven''t talked much lately. Maybe we could catch up after your patrol? We could grab something at the Rust Market or whatever...I mean if you want...it''d be cool...I''d be cool with that. I just...you know...just...maybe we could hang out sometime...that is if you''re cool with it. If you don''t feel like it then that''s also fine." He stumbled over the words as he tried to get them out as quickly as possible. He took a deep breath after finishing.

    "That would be nice." Fii chuckled softly before reassuring him. "Really. I''ve missed our talks." The admission made her feel better than she''d felt all day.

    There was a brief lull before Quinn replied.

    "Great! So...I''ll...see you later then?" There was an audible click as he switched off his microphone. Fii could picture the goofy expression on Quinn''s face as he hurriedly made some adjustments to his gadgetry.

    Her cheeks flushed pink despite herself as the corners of her mouth tugged upwards involuntarily. With a sigh she stood and stretched; she had stalled for long enough. Duty called.

    She pressed the play button on the cassette player strapped to her utility belt and leaned into the familiar melody emanating from the earpiece.

    Kenzo''s last song echoed through her ears¡ªthe one he had told her about. A song about Axion¡ªa song about her.

    Fii lept into the air, her body weightless as she soared high above the slums. She floated on the notes of the music drifting through her ears¡ªa smile spreading across her face¡ªshe drifted higher and higher as if carried aloft by wings.

    The wind caressed her cheek¡ªthe sun bathed her skin¡ªthe song filled her mind¡ªshe became part of everything around her.

    Every note held meaning, every rhythm vibrated with purpose. She understood now more than ever what Kenzo meant when he said music held magic within its sound waves. It spoke a language all its own¡ªa language with no barriers or restrictions.

    At this brief, fleeting instant, nothing else mattered except the feeling of being untethered to the confines of gravity and earthly laws...just existing.

    The sensation faded as she descended onto the street below¡ªback into reality.

    Fii continued on her way towards her patrol route.

    There was no denying the changes happening. The slums were getting noticed by the Metropolis in new ways. She could feel it in her bones. Something was coming...and she''d need to be prepared for whatever happened next.

    Slumlife wasn''t pretty. Nor was it poetic.

    For Axion¡ªfor Fii¡ªit just...was. It was all she had known¡ªand would probably ever know. All the same, it would always be her home...no matter how hard or ugly. And if it meant protecting what she cared about, then that''s what she would do.

    No questions asked. No regrets. Even if there''d be nothing but ashes and dust behind in her wake...so long as everyone could survive another night...then she could live with herself...even though life gave her no chance to dream.

    She would keep moving forward. Because if nothing else...life had taught her one valuable lesson: There would always be tomorrow, and hope would never leave her heart.

    <hr>

    Book One End

 Afterword

    Book one is complete!

    After listening to "Superhero" by ILLENIUM, what started as an idea became an enjoyable journey in writing a superhero story. I want to preface that I haven''t consumed a lot of content for that genre (aside from watching Marvel films and the older superhero cartoons), so if my depiction of said genre isn''t quite up to scratch...I apologize.

    While writing, I ended up building a world and characters to explore different themes from a different setting. The choice of a dystopian cyberpunk theme and setting helped me to convey the social themes and metaphors I wanted to address in this piece. It was a process that challenged my writing and forced me to think critically about what I was putting down on paper and in what format I could tell that story.

    This was something I found important for my personal development; the ideas and worldbuilding became more than what I intended from the beginning, and that was the challenge I set for myself.

    If you''re familiar with anime and cyberpunk settings, you''ll find many parallels here. I''m certain I borrowed tropes and elements here and there, although hopefully not overused and overplayed conventions. I hope I was able to weave them in and present new angles and interpretations of what have become familiar motifs across many pieces of media. I don''t believe I''ve strayed too far from the familiar path...at most, it was an alternate route that leads to the same destination in the end.

    The choice of having the setting based on the slums instead of the metropolis wasn''t arbitrary. I wanted to explore the challenges of being a superhero in a lawless place rather than an orderly and lawful environment. No jail, no prison, no system to report to for justice; everything becomes subjective.

    Not to say that there are not aspects here for which I am less proud; there are certainly parts of this story that didn''t quite end the way I wanted them to be¡ªor could have been better conveyed. This is a result of both having to make compromises for the sake of a story that wouldn''t drag on indefinitely, and my own inexperience with this genre and style. That said, I feel like I accomplished enough in terms of what I initially envisioned and hoped to achieve.

    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    That doesn''t mean I''m done with this world...far from it. There are a lot of things left untouched or undeveloped in the setting: the major gangs that I''ve briefly introduced, the Outlands (mentioned in Chapter 67), Fii''s interactions with the other characters like Lyria and Rao, and even encounters with more supernatural elements. I''ll likely explore them in later installments or one-shots. The world is still ripe for development and exploration.

    Speaking of Fii...writing the superhero origin story of a young protagonist like her was quite a fun experiment for me. There was a challenge to balance her growth from naive and idealistic into someone who had to come to grips with doing what she believed in and what might be right...even though the reality she lived in was quite unfair and cruel.

    There were many things about her I wish I could have done better or developed more. I''m not entirely pleased with certain developments and motivations, and I do wish I had taken more time to polish certain plot points a bit more. However, overall I am satisfied with her character growth and the direction her arc took me.

    The dynamic between Fii and her supporting cast gave me an outlet to play with character relationships while keeping them grounded and relatable. It''s a style that suits my current skill level in writing. This approach also helped me to stay focused on the story I wanted to tell above other storytelling devices and styles.

    As for why I chose gravikinesis as her superpower...well...let''s just say that the concept appealed to a geeky side of me that loves sci-fi and physics. I did try to keep the limitations for such an ability in mind and tried to be consistent. However, I may have missed a few in my haste. Feel free to point out any inconsistencies I have overlooked in my enthusiasm...I''ll be happy to iron them out. I''m sure there''ll be a couple of typos here and there too.

    If this story managed to stir something within you...then my goal has been achieved! What did you like or dislike about it? What did you take away from these pages? What might you seek out from my next venture? I hope that you''ll share your thoughts and feedback.

    So...what comes next?

    For now...I intend to take a breather from this piece and focus my attention on my other stories while I plan out the framework for what will be the story of Book 2.

    There is much to explore and expand on; from how I want the narrative to progress, where I want to introduce new characters or explore existing ones, which style or tone will suit best, what themes I want to explore...and so much more. These are all factors I''ll take into account before moving forward with a second draft of this work.

    Thank you for reading Slumdog Hero! This has been a most enjoyable journey. Until our paths cross again¡ªstay safe and have a good one!

    Zanafar

 Glossary

    SLANGS AND TERMS

    "Bright as a lone bulb": Used to describe someone smart or clever.

    "Same rust, different metal": The same problem, just in a different form.

    "Spin the bottle, see where it points": Make a random decision or take a chance.

    "Patchwork dreams": Hopes or ambitions pieced together from various sources.

    "All sizzle, no steak": All talk, no substance.

    "Kickin'' old cans": Revisiting past problems or grievances.

    "A shimmer in the puddle": A small bit of hope or happiness in an otherwise bleak situation.

    "Cooking with spare parts": Making do with what you have.

    "Hitching on a rusty ride": Taking an opportunity, even if it''s not the best.

    "Tin talk": Cheap gossip or insignificant chatter.

    "Chasing broken signals": Pursuing something that isn''t worthwhile or is misleading.

    "Rooftop wisdom": Street-smart knowledge or wisdom gained from living in the slums.

    "Junk''s gold if you see it right": One man''s trash is another man''s treasure.

    "Batteries ain''t included": Something''s missing or there''s a catch to the situation.

    "Pulling wires outta thin air": Making something out of nothing or being resourceful.

    "Patch it, don''t pitch it": Make do with what you have.

    "Sparks before the fire": A warning sign or premonition of bigger problems.

    "Lost in the static": Feeling overwhelmed or confused.

    "Treading on cracked glass": Being in a delicate or dangerous situation.

    "Flip the switch": Change one''s attitude or approach quickly.

    "Echoes in empty cans": Rumors or unfounded gossip.

    "Chasing flickering lights": Pursuing unrealistic dreams or desires.

    "Drained the battery": Used up all one''s resources or patience.

    "Circuits crossed": A misunderstanding or miscommunication.

    "Riding the ripple": Going along with a trend or flow, even if it''s temporary.

    "Got dust in the gears": Feeling out of sorts or not feeling well.

    "Chasing empty cans": Pursuing meaningless or fruitless endeavors.

    "Flash without fire": All talk and no substance; superficial.

    "Got a full basket today": Having good luck or a good day.

    "Singing to the scrapheap": Trying to convince someone who isn''t listening.

    "Tune your antenna": Pay attention or listen up.

    "Wearing yesterday''s threads": Stuck in the past or holding onto old grudges.

    "Grinding gears without oil": Struggling hard without any assistance or resources.

    "Chasing the neon": Going after fleeting pleasures or temporary highs.

    "Light beyond the Wall": Hope or optimism despite tough circumstances.

    "Dancing on rusted roofs": Taking unnecessary risks.

    "Twist the wire, not the truth": Focus on tangible things, not stories or lies.

    "Gutters can shine too": Even in the worst conditions, there''s potential for beauty or value.

    "Walls talk, streets scream": In the slums, secrets are hard to keep.

    "Riding the current downstream": Going with the flow or taking the path of least resistance.

    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it."Empty cans make the loudest noise": Those with the least to offer often speak the most or the loudest.

    "Skies ain''t always gray": There''s always hope or potential for better times.

    "If the drain''s clogged, find another route": If one path is blocked, find another way.

    "Scrap today, shine tomorrow": Sacrifice now for a better future.

    "Every alley has its end": Every situation, no matter how grim, has an eventual resolution.

    "Stitch before the tear": Address problems before they get worse.

    "Patching old cloaks": Trying to mend or repair old relationships or past mistakes.

    "Rats have short tails": Secrets in the slums don''t stay hidden for long.

    "Hustling in the hush": Working discreetly or under the radar.

    "Kettle''s always boiling": There''s always some drama or issue brewing.

    "Brighter than a busted bulb": Someone who''s not very smart.

    "Sip from the leak": Take advantage of an opportunity, no matter how small.

    "Junk''s gold if you shine it": Making the best out of a bad situation.

    "Hawks in the sky": Trouble or authority is nearby.

    "Twilight pockets": Having just enough to get by, but barely.

    "Rolling on rust": Continuing to move forward despite difficult circumstances.

    Skimmer: Someone who profits from others'' hard work or scams people.

    Glim: A brief opportunity or a small chance.

    HighRise: Someone from the metropolis or a rich individual.

    Grub''n''Guzzle: A meal, typically a quick and cheap one.

    Spinners: Liars or storytellers.

    Rusties: Old-timers or elderly folk.

    Fade: To hide or lay low.

    Drench: Trouble or problematic situation.

    Glow-Up: Improving one''s situation or appearance.

    Zoners: People who are out of it, either due to drugs or trauma.

    Pits: The worst parts of the slums or a very bad situation.

    Loomers: Gang lookouts or spies.

    Nix/Nixers: Nothing or zero.

    Skizzed: Meaning high or under the influence.

    Grindwire: A regular job or responsibility, especially one that''s dull.

    Slumshine: A term of endearment for someone from the slums.

    Wirehead: Someone tech-savvy or a hacker.

    ClipRunners: Children or young teens who run errands or messages in exchange for credits or goods.

    Glim: A brief moment of hope or happiness.

    WallGaze:A longing or dreamy stare, usually by those who wish to leave the slums for the metropolis.

    ChitCreds: One of the Slum''s main forms of currency. Often in the form of paper or card-like material stamped with official marks. Act as vouchers or redeemable coupons for services or goods.

    Tinks: One of the Slum''s main forms of currency. Coins made from scavenged tin. Easily recognizable by their dull shine and are often used for minor transactions.

    Drips: Dull, uninteresting, or slow individuals.

    Wirewalk: The act of navigating the complex politics and rivalries of the slums.

    Vapors: Lies or empty promises.

    Tinkertots: Amateur techies or inventors, often kids trying to make new gadgets.

    Chrome: Referring to someone with a lot of cybernetic implants.

    Synthies: Synthetically produced food or drink, usually of poor quality.

 Chapter 1: The Weight of a Name

    The slums felt different now. Not the kind of different that came with a new gang seizing control of a few blocks, or an airship spilling its refuse onto the rooftops, or some amateur Tinkertot building an illegal shatter-bomb and bringing half an apartment complex down. The kind of different that went beyond the everyday struggles of the area, that went beyond the rough-and-tumble lifestyle that everyone there was so familiar with.

    No, it wasn''t any of those things, and if someone had told her that the streets could take on a new color a few months ago, she''d have laughed and suggested that they eat less Synthies. Too much synth-ham played with the mind, as some in the slums were all too prone to tell others after a bad trip. Or maybe some Rusty was showing off a bit by attempting to use a big word. But this wasn''t that kind of different either.

    This was something else. Something that wasn''t all in her mind.

    That something was her, of course. Fii. Not that her name meant much to anyone. To most people, she was just another girl in the slums, one who didn''t stand out in any way. She wasn''t a gang leader or an artist or anything like that. As far as they knew, she didn''t do anything interesting or exciting, or even dangerous.

    To them, she was just another street rat trying to stay alive. Except she wasn''t, not anymore.

    In the last couple of months, ever since her identity as ''Axion'' had been revealed, there was a change in the air. Whispers now followed her whenever she stepped into the slums. The occasional murmurs, the sidelong glances, the hushed conversations that abruptly stopped whenever she walked by¡ªall told her that the secret was out.

    In her efforts to protect the people of the slums, she had inadvertently revealed her true nature to those around her.

    As far as anyone knew now, she was a Super. The slums have never had a hero to call their own.

    Never.

    And to be fair, no one knew what to make of her. Sure, Supers were fascinating and powerful. Everyone had heard about their heroic deeds in the metropolis. Everyone knew about the extraordinary feats they achieved with their abilities.

    But this was the slums.

    To everyone, it just wasn''t supposed to be possible. Supers weren''t meant to exist in the slums. They were something other; larger-than-life beings who defended the affluent city across the way, not the cesspool of poverty and crime in which she lived. It was like hearing about someone finding a diamond in the rough. Not likely and when it did happen, it was hard to believe.

    There was an unspoken belief that the Supers'' world and theirs were two entirely different realms. A Super would never dare set foot in the slums. Why would they? There were no massive threats or global conspiracies to foil. There was nothing worthwhile here in their eyes.

    The only thing that the slums had to offer was misery, rust, and rain. It was where the cast-offs of society went to wither away, a place to be forgotten.

    For a time, her clandestine forays into the superhero gig, donning the moniker "Axion," had been limited to the odd jobs¡ªbreaking up street fights, mediating minor disputes, and the occasional daring rescue from a precarious rooftop.

    To her, these were all routine activities.

    There was something about the visceral thrill of embracing the mantle of a superhero that gave her a certain kind of... buzz. A rush of adrenaline that was different than anything that she had ever felt. Something about using her powers to help others, even if it was on a small scale, was exhilarating.

    Plus, it wasn''t as though anyone was actually watching her do this. Most of her ''heroics'' had been done without much fanfare or recognition.

    Or so she had thought.

    Now that everyone knew, things had changed. People stared at her. Some nodded in reverence, others looked on in curiosity, and the majority remained skeptical or indifferent. Everyone had an opinion about her, whether good or bad, and most couldn''t decide between the two. Just her presence was enough to cause a stir, but in truth, most still didn''t understand her significance.

    Fii wasn''t ignorant of their confusion. It was like being thrust into the spotlight without warning. In a sense, she had gone from a nobody to an urban legend overnight, and she wasn''t sure how to process that sudden shift.

    Everything just felt out of balance. But before she could really sort out any of this, a rumble of a stomach brought her focus back to the present. For now, it was time to deal with the age-old question that every street rat faced: what''s for lunch?

    She sat down in the tiny alleyway between her own ramshackle hovel of a home and the adjacent apartment, whose cracked windows were the only decoration on the drab and dreary building that stood out amidst the ramshackle structures surrounding it. Across the lane was a mismatched patchwork of corrugated roofs and plywood lean-tos, casting shadows over the muddy, puddle-strewn ground below, with its pavement punctuated by cracks that revealed the persistent green weeds pushing through.

    Her home itself wasn''t any better, of course. But at least, it was hers.

    Dangling her legs over the edge, Fii blew a few loose strands of hair out of her eyes. She wore a tank top and bike shorts, each ragged at the edges, but still in decent shape¡ªwell, okay shape, considering they were older than she was. She wrapped herself tighter in her tattered jacket, the familiar scent of worn leather enveloping her.

    Despite everything, Fii enjoyed quiet moments like this. They were rare in the chaos of the slums, where something was always happening. Even if she was hungry, she had the sun on her face and the cool breeze against her skin. At least, for the moment, she could just be here and think about... nothing, really. It was kind of nice, honestly.

    With Edith''s disappearance and the emergence of her ''secret,'' living in the Aether Clinic wasn''t an option. Sheri and the others there would have had their hands full dealing with all the new rumors. People would have come there seeking her out, whether out of curiosity or because they thought she could help them somehow.

    Best to keep to her old place instead, at least until everyone got used to her being a Super, or forgot about it. With how quickly things went from one topic to another in the slums, that wasn''t a far-fetched idea.

    Too bad this also meant she didn''t have a stable source of food to sate her metahuman appetite. The clinic was pretty good with meals, so long as Sheri had a hand in it. On her own, she was forced to forage from her usual spots. Grub''n''Guzzle wasn''t an option these days, though.

    Last time, she''d felt everyone''s eyes on her back. They all watched to see if her Super-ness made her too good for cheap, gritty burgers. Or maybe they wanted to make sure she wasn''t going to fly away with the food.

    A funny image, if not for the absurdity of it.

    The thing was, she did stand out these days, even more than usual. She wasn''t sure exactly why. Maybe people finally noticed how athletic she was? Maybe they noticed the white hair that clashed against her olive skin, or how bright her blue eyes looked among the grit. Or maybe it was the way she held herself, always looking up and walking with a spring in her step, even when others were hunched over and staring at the ground. Who knew?

    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    With a soft exhale, Fii shrugged the thoughts off.

    That was enough contemplation. Now was the time to eat.

    She tossed the small haul she got from Rao onto the alley''s cracked pavement, picking through the offerings as if selecting a prize. There was a package of Synth-O''s, those silver-colored circles that didn''t taste like much, a container of pure protein paste (no thank you), a single yellowy banana that looked like it had been run over, and an enigmatically labeled "Rations Plus."

    Hmm. Which one, which one? Rations Plus, here we go, she mused, reaching for the colorful package.

    At least the label was entertaining. The picture looked nothing like the contents inside, but who didn''t like a nice surprise in the middle of the day?

    She tore open the seal and grimaced. Yup. Grub. It smelled like... well, like someone had tried to cover up the smell of something worse. Definitely the usual for a super-duper, enhanced, gourmet Superfood. Turning the package over in her hand, she squinted at the minuscule fine print: "Our new, improved formula, fortified with essential nutrients and minerals. Now, even better than before!"

    The words were followed by an asterisk, which led to an even smaller print that read, "*Better, of course, is a subjective term. Product may contain trace amounts of extraterrestrial or metaphysical substances. Do not consume if unprepared for existential musings."

    What the heck did that even mean?

    Fii rolled her eyes at the absurdity of it all, but hey, at least she was a step ahead of everyone else on that front. Her life was already crazy enough.

    Without further hesitation, she took a big, squishy bite out of the gelatinous rations. Chew, chew, swallow, and gone. Ugh, the taste wasn''t what one would call appealing either. It was gritty, for some reason, with a sort of fake sweetness that made her want to gag. But food was food. Not exactly the hearty meals she''d grown fond of at the clinic, but this would do just fine.

    It brought a rueful grin to her face as she reminisced about life in the clinic''s kitchen with Sheri. Sheri, the solid rock that held the place together, the eternal peacemaker, the warm center. All these were terms that only vaguely applied to Edith. She''d never be anything other than her gruff, aloof self. In Sheri''s presence, there was always warmth, a comfort that often felt just out of reach in the stark, impersonal clinic.

    Edith was, well, more like cold, smooth marble. But then, underneath that icy exterior, Fii had caught glimpses of something warmer, more... caring, perhaps? There was no denying the empathy she''d shown in treating her patients.

    But even as this thought crossed her mind, Fii''s smile faded.

    Two months.

    Edith had been gone for a two months already, and Fii was still no closer to finding her. The clues were sparse, the leads were drying up, and her frustration grew with every dead end. Where had Salvatore taken her? What was his aim in all of this? Was she okay? I hope so...

    Virgil had promised to lend a hand, to dig around and see what he could turn up.

    But that was weeks ago. Since then, there hadn''t been a peep from him. She thought about going to him again, to press for some answers, but reconsidered. Virgil had a funny way of doing things, and he''d made it pretty clear he would come to her once he had anything solid. Pushing him wouldn''t get her anywhere and might even do the opposite of what she wanted. And wasn''t he mad about Edith''s disappearance?

    Wouldn''t he be looking just as hard?

    Her thoughts spiraled, a montage of worst-case scenarios playing out in her head, each more dreadful than the last. But no. She pushed those thoughts away, focusing instead on the things she knew for certain. Edith was resourceful; she was a survivor. It was easy to forget that given how clean and put together she looked, but if anyone had a chance to survive... whatever this was, it was her.

    She had to believe that. Believing the alternative was unacceptable.

    With a sigh, she downed the rest of her rations. That wasn''t as tasty as she''d hoped. Next time, the run-over banana might just be the better option. Setting aside her disappointment in meal quality, Fii cast her gaze around the alley.

    Mrs. Hest, a dear old Rusty who sat across from her house in her dilapidated rocking chair, sent Fii a friendly wave. The woman''s smile was as warm as always, even though her teeth were almost all gone. She waved back with a genuine grin, finding comfort in the mundane rhythm of these small gestures.

    From nearby, the cacophony of laughter echoed from some kids playing in the street. A group of ClipRunners were wrestling over a lost shaker of salt¡ªsilly, but they didn''t care. To them, life was a game. Fii couldn''t help but think back to when she was one of them. In a weird way, she missed those simpler times.

    Before all of... this.

    With her thoughts as disorganized as the clutter of the slums, she leaned back, propping herself up with her arms. Her gaze drifted skyward to the rusted fire escape that clung to the building across the alley. A derelict airship passed slowly overhead, its immense balloon casting a fleeting shadow that briefly veiled the scene below.

    Fii frowned, remembering how it rained yesterday. And the day before that. And the day before that, and... the day before that. Would it ever just... stop raining for a week? Give things a chance to dry out?

    Maybe it would, maybe it wouldn''t.

    Looking around, it was hard to miss the various water collection systems people had set up on rooftops and windowsills. Barrels, buckets, all sorts of containers littered the area. Everything that could be used to catch water was put to use, and from the looks of it, even that wasn''t always enough.

    The kids played, Mrs. Hest rocked, people collected water, and rain came and went, and would come again. Meanwhile, Fii sat, enjoying the calm.

    Then her wrist chimed.

    Lifting her hand, a holographic screen projecting from a watch-like device encircling her wrist. She checked the message: it was a ping from Virgil.

    GOT INFO. COME NOW ¨CVM

    It was concise, devoid of emotion, and exactly the kind of message she''d expect from Virgil. No small talk or anything like that. His tone was often a mystery to her. Despite how direct the man could be, she never really knew what he was thinking. There was always some... thing underneath those words that was hard to make out.

    Still, he was helping, and that''s what mattered.

    Fii scrambled to her feet, excitement replacing the hunger pangs that lingered from her meal. Finally, a lead! This was her chance to find Edith, to bring her home safely.

    With a renewed sense of purpose, she shot a quick wave and smile at Mrs. Hest, then took off down the alley, the woman''s chuckles fading behind her. Fii moved with a practiced grace, scaling walls, leaping from fire escape to rooftop, and navigating the convoluted pathways of the slums with the confidence of someone who had done this a thousand times before.

    Her control over her Gravikinesis was fine-tuned now. No more stumbles or misjudged landings for her. Fii had learned to wield it in sync with her movements, using gravity as an extension of her will as she jumped between buildings, or deftly skimmed past startled residents. All of it was under her control, with no effort involved. It was simply natural.

    A huge difference from when she first started, that was sure.

    But in truth, that was no different than before. She had been an incredible climber, acrobat, and runner when she was still just a normal person. Maybe being a Meta with an innate sense of gravity had always been in her, long before Edith''s experiment, her powers were just latent until they''d been awoken. It was difficult to tell if that was just a bit of lingering denial, or if it was an intriguing hypothesis to ask Edith about whenever she saw her next.

    After bounding over a roof''s edge, her wrist chimed again, bringing her to an abrupt halt. Another message, but not from Virgil this time¡ªit was from Quinn. A warmth spread across her chest at the thought of him. Their relationship was fresh, unexplored territory for Fii. But in all honesty, it was nice. Quinn was nice.

    Hey, we still on for lunch today? ¨CQ

    Oh, crap!

    In the whirlwind of her thoughts about Edith and her mission to find her, she''d completely forgotten about her lunch date with Quinn. Running a hand through her hair, she sent a quick apology, promising to make it up to him soon. An excuse would just be a lie.

    I''ll come up with something later.

    No reply, but she wasn''t expecting one. Quinn was always considerate like that. He didn''t pressure her for explanations. But even so, guilt gnawed at her.

    She and Quinn had been exploring the extent of their feelings for each other. There were a handful of kisses here, a few make-out sessions there, but they hadn''t talked much about where things were going or how serious it was.

    Maybe one day, when the business with Edith was settled, they could finally sit down and have a real talk about whatever this was and where it might go.

    If he even wanted that, which she still wasn''t sure if he did.

    Right now though, she had to go to The Vigil.

 Chapter 2: Tune Your Antenna

    The abandoned police station came into view as Fii scaled a wall to emerge onto the street. She had walked here so many times, she could do it in her sleep. Still, actually being in front of the station made her feel a little wistful. Not too long ago, she and Virgil had used the place to train, working on her powers, her physical endurance, and teaching her how to fight.

    The days were grueling, yes, and his lessons were hard.

    But it was fun¡ªin a weird way.

    There was a rhythm to his training, something she hadn''t fully understood at the time, but now could see clearly. Each session built on the previous ones, strengthening her, honing her, preparing her. He was getting her ready for something bigger, and though he hadn''t said as much, he didn''t have to. It was in his actions, and his unwavering commitment to the process. He was as strict as Edith and just as secretive.

    Odd how they were so alike, yet couldn''t get along for the life of them. Oil and water, those two.

    As she took in the sight of the station, memories played out in her mind: the endless laps around the block, the relentless combat drills, the grueling power exercises. He always believed in pushing her beyond what she thought was her limit, always trying to pull just a bit more out of her. Not that he ever got too far. It was always right on the cusp of being ''too much,'' but never actually crossing the line. Not even once.

    If anything, he held back more than anything else. Often, Fii would look into his eyes and see that glimmer of something underneath his gruff exterior. What was it? Concern? Doubt? Whatever it was, Virgil never let it show for long.

    Fii found herself wondering why they both put her through so much. Why, despite their arguments, their different approaches, did they both seem to understand something about her that she didn''t even grasp herself? And why did they keep whatever it was under their hats?

    The questions swirled in her head, but she quickly shook them away. Edith''s kidnapping was more important right now than prying into old mysteries. With a deep breath, she approached the entrance to the station. It felt oddly like coming home, and yet, at the same time, it was still just a big, dilapidated, hollowed-out ruin.

    Darkened windows gazed out like sightless eyes, the front door was marred with scratches and graffiti. As she entered, the door squeaked, protesting her intrusion. Inside was just as bad, maybe worse. A layer of dust covered everything, giving the whole place a muted, gray aura. Her nose crinkled at the musty, stale smell that hung in the air.

    A flock of pigeons fluttered out from behind a torn-up shutter, and she couldn''t help but laugh.

    "Well, some of you just look fat and happy," she teased, eyeing the obviously well-fed birds.

    They cooed in response, utterly oblivious to her words. Who was feeding them in here, anyway?

    She tiptoed over broken glass and debris, making her way to the stairwell that led to the basement, or Virgil as described it, the ''think tank''.

    Finally, she arrived at the basement door, the hinges creaking as she pushed it open.

    There, at his desk, sat Virgil. He was hunched over, his rugged features highlighted by the flickering light of an old lamp. As always, his dark cowboy hat was perched atop his head, and he was cloaked in his signature trenchcoat, looking like the kind of guy people would either go to for help or avoid if they valued their lives. And, well, he was both.

    He held a crumpled piece of paper in one hand, seemingly engrossed by whatever was scribbled on it.

    Before she could announce herself, he looked up, his eyes locking onto hers.

    "It''s about time you got here," he grumbled, setting the paper down. "I''ve been waiting for a good ten minutes."

    Despite his initial show of irritation, a corner of his mouth hinted at a suppressed smile. For Virgil, that was the equivalent of a bear hug from most other folks.

    "It''s great to see you too," Fii responded, her own smile mirroring his. "I know. I missed that cheery attitude of yours."

    Her statement, despite its playful jab, held a truth. There was something comforting about being back here, trading quips with the gun-slinging grump she''d come to know, even in the midst of their usual banter. He might not be the cheeriest person around, but he was reliable in his unique brand of grouchy loyalty.

    It made her feel safe, somehow.

    Virgil let out a scoff, more amused than offended. He nodded at the worn wooden chair opposite him, which to be honest, looked like it had seen better days.

    He sure doesn''t waste any time on pleasantries, does he? Sit down and shut up. Got it.

    As she took her seat, a puff of dust mushroomed from the cushion. Fii managed to maintain her composure, although her nose itched and a sneeze threatened to escape. Mustering all her willpower, she managed to suppress it, swallowing the urge with a sniffle.

    He looked at her. Then at her nose. And back to her.

    "Okay, if you''ve got to sneeze, then go right ahead. This is important, but not as urgent as whatever demon wants to come crawling out of your snout," he stated, sounding somewhere between a concerned dad and an annoyed grandpa who wants to watch TV.

    The sheer ridiculousness of Virgil''s statement shattered her resolve. A peal of laughter escaped her lips, a sneeze quickly tailing it.

    One sneeze. Two sneezes. Three sneezes later, Virgil was staring at her with that same exasperated look he always seemed to wear. When she finally regained her composure, her eyes teary and her nose rosy from the sneezing fit, he harrumphed. He slapped a dirty rag from some forgotten corner of the desk.

    Oh, how thoughtful. I''m sure that''ll make things so much better.

    "It''s clean, promise," he grunted.

    It didn''t look it, but okay. With a sheepish grin, Fii took the offered cloth and blew her nose, making an indelicate sound that she could practically feel him wince at. Sorry to offend your delicate, anti-sneeze sensibilities, Mister Maddox.

    Another grunt. This one had a very eloquent meaning too: Are you quite done?

    Clearing her throat, Fii composed herself and shot him a challenging smirk. "Right, got that out of my system. Let''s talk shop."

    The creases in Virgil''s forehead deepened, a sign Fii had come to understand as his way of signaling something important, or a headache.

    "Edith," he began, his tone taking on a weight that hadn''t been there before, "I''ve narrowed down a couple of leads on where she might be."

    Virgil leaned in, the dim light of the precinct casting dramatic shadows across his stern features. Despite the setting, or maybe because of it, his seriousness felt exaggerated somehow.

    He laid the crumpled piece of paper he had been studying on the table between them. From her perspective, it was upside down. Not that it mattered; squinting at it told her it was in some weird shorthand chicken scratch that only he could read and call a language. Something else she needed to learn: deciphering Virgil''s unique code for note-taking.

    "The trail''s been pretty muddy," he continued, gesturing to his notes, "but I''ve finally managed to wipe away some of the grime."

    He tapped a line he found significant with a scarred finger. "Based on a few bits of hearsay and an account of suspicious movement, I think there''s a good chance she''s being held in one of his satellite facilities past the Wastes of Kurigali, or..." Another tap, this time more deliberate. "...in his labs within the Metropolis itself."

    Oh.

    His words hung heavy in the air, mingling with the dust motes dancing lazily in the meager sunlight that forced its way through the cracked windows.

    "Well..." Fii said after a pause, drawing out the syllable. "That''s... big."

    Both places were daunting on their own merit.

    The thought of the Wastes made her stomach clench. Kurigali was a cursed stretch of land that sprawled beyond the Slums. It was an enormous, lifeless desert where only the truly desperate or utterly mad dared to venture. Stories about the place ranged from terrifying to flat-out ridiculous.

    Monsters as large as airships? Maybe not. Freak sandstorms that could strip your flesh from bone in minutes? Okay, probably just an exaggeration.

    But the whole no-man''s-land thing and the plethora of cannibalistic freaks and roving gangs? Those weren''t exaggerated. Not according to her friend Tweak anyway, and the Wirehead rarely stretched the truth¡ªthough she tended to leave out crucial details. But crossing the Wastes was suicide.

    Only caravans from the Metropolis stood a chance of traversing it, and even then, they had to be well-equipped, loaded to the gills with firepower.

    That wasn''t even mentioning what was supposed to lurk underground, monsters waiting to feed. So yeah, not the best option.

    Flying over it was the safest bet, which meant securing a ship, a good ship. But that meant entering the Metropolis itself to board one, and that came with its own set of issues.

    Airship barges docked in the Metropolis on a regular basis, coming from different lands, including Kurigali. They carried all sorts of commodities¡ªsynth-food, goods, the usual stuff. A few often stop by the slums to make some extra credits off the books on the way back.

    She could fly herself and Virgil over instead, but even her powers had limits, and running out of steam above the Wastes spelled doom for them. Not to mention she''d never set foot outside of the slums before. Fii had no idea how big the desert was or where exactly to go.

    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    Getting lost in that place...

    An airship was definitely the better option there.

    Oh, and speaking of the big M, that was another problem altogether.

    Access to the city was strictly regulated by its overzealous Board of Corporate Directors. Sure, people could get in as long as they met one of a million requirements and had the right amount of credits, but she was pretty sure ''rescuing a kidnapped mentor'' wasn''t an item on the list of approved reasons to enter.

    Becoming a registered Super had been her original plan. Supers were granted unrestricted entry. The city loved its Supers; the more, the merrier. But... she had just killed Prime¡ªthe leader of the Ultimate Guardians and the city''s most prominent hero¡ªnot too long ago.

    That probably wouldn''t go over well.

    If she wasn''t public enemy number one after that little stunt, the rest of the Ultimate Guardians were at the very least gunning for her, like, really literally gunning for her. She was surprised they didn''t come back to the Slums to try and grab her after the showdown.

    "You''re sure?" Fii asked, not wanting to question his skills, but needing that extra bit of reassurance. "How confident are you about this lead?"

    Virgil leaned back, folding his arms across his chest. His eyebrows arched ever so slightly, indicating he wasn''t so much annoyed as he was tired. Like usual, then.

    "I won''t promise you the sun or moon here," he replied, a rare softness in his voice. "But in my line of work, you learn to sniff out these things, and everything I''ve discovered points to those locations. Those mercs and Adrenomacers we fought all came here through the Wastes, which tells me they operate out of Kurigali."

    "But Salva¡ª" Fii started to say.

    Virgil cut her off with a wave of his hand. "Yeah, he''s from the Metropolis. I know. And I''m not discounting that. His ties there are as strong as they come. That''s why both places feel right to me. Either his crew is holing up in one of his hidden labs here or they''re using some base of his past the desert. If I had to bet, I''d put my money on the Wastes."

    Fii frowned. "But the Wastes? How¡ªwhy would they risk something like that? That place is the stuff of nightmares, from what I heard."

    He gave a half nod, then gave one of his usual shrugs, which normally meant ''yeah, that''s true, but...''

    But what?

    "Kurigali makes a great deal of sense if you think about it. First, there''s still a city there, Merraco. Not a pretty place, sure, but it''s a haven for those with the right connections. Lots of places to disappear or use as a hideout. Plus, he has the resources to make it livable. If there''s anyone who can weather that place, it''s him and his money.

    "Second, security. Kurigali is a natural deterrent; no one in their right mind would venture there. Outside of corporations using the place to move goods around, it''s a no-man''s-land. Crossing it means you either have a team of Supers escorting you, or you''re prepared to handle the worst. Not many folks have that kind of firepower.

    "Third, it''s remote. News and rumors from Kurigali are scarce, so even if he was up to something, no one would be the wiser. Perfect place to keep your secrets and your hostages."

    Despite her earlier objections to the idea, the more Virgil explained, the more it made sense.

    Something still didn''t sit right with her though.

    She inhaled, as if to speak, but then thought better of it.

    "Spit it out, girl," he said, his words coming out in a weary sigh.

    "Well..." Fii ventured, her brows knitting together. "Why not just keep her in the Metropolis, then? If he has all these resources and connections, wouldn''t that be easier?"

    Virgil uncrossed his arms and leaned forward again, elbows on the table. The light from the dusty lamp caught his features, deepening the shadows that played across his face.

    "That''s where it gets tricky," he admitted. "My guess¡ªand this is just a guess¡ªis that if Salvatore did take her to the Metropolis, things could get complicated. See, he''s a big fish there, but so are others. Every powerful figure in that city has their own security, their own networks. There are prying eyes everywhere. If Edith put up a fight¡ªwhich we know she would¡ªthat could draw unwanted attention. He''s a big shot, but so is everyone else there. It''s not his domain alone."

    He paused, letting that sink in. "Out in the Wastes, he has more control. But like I said, I''m not ruling out the Metropolis completely. Actually, it''d be better for her if she was there. That''s a real city, and although there''re probably a million places he could keep her, she''d be better off there than in Merraco. Even still, we''d be looking at a needle in a haystack."

    Fii thought about this and nodded.

    Okay. Edith might be in the Wastes, or in the Metropolis. Okay. Big deal. I can work with this.

    Steeling her resolve, she straightened in her chair and looked Virgil in the eye. "When do we start? I could try flying us over, maybe¡ª"

    He cut her off with a swift gesture. "Woah there, turbo. Let''s slow our roll a bit."

    Now his furrowed brow was joined by a frown, an expression so familiar that Fii often wondered if it was stuck that way.

    "Don''t get me wrong," he continued, holding up a placating hand, "your enthusiasm is... nice. It really is, kid. But there''s a lot more to this than just diving in headfirst. We can''t afford any rash decisions; they''ll only land us¡ªand likely Edith¡ªin hot water."

    Fii leaned forward, elbows on the desk, and was forced to match his stare.

    "Then what''s the plan?" she asked, her voice edging on defensive. "I mean, shouldn''t we act fast and strike while the iron is hot or whatever?"

    A heavy sigh escaped Virgil, sounding like a weightlifting bellows. He sat there, processing her question. "Have you ever heard the expression, ''Those who fail to prepare, prepare to fail''? It''s as true today as it''s ever been. All we have right now are a couple of vague ideas and no solid plan. That''s hardly a recipe for success."

    As much as she wanted to disagree, she knew he was right. Acting impulsively had never served her well. "Fair enough. So what''s next?"

    "Information, which I''m gathering, and something resembling a plan. Also..." He tapped his finger on the table thoughtfully. "We might need to round up some help for this. This isn''t some little operation where you snag a file and bolt. This is an all-out rescue mission, and there''s a big difference. No one-man show can pull that off."

    Help?

    Her first thought was of Quinn, but he couldn''t just drop everything and jaunt off to save Edith with her. Not to mention the whole powers thing. He didn''t have them, she did, and he wasn''t a fighter. Definitely not going to drag him into this. But then who could they trust to assist? It wasn''t like she had a treasure chest of people she could call on. There was Tweak, and...

    Her mind landed on Quinn again.

    As she pondered, Virgil reached across the table, tapping her forehead with a finger. "Quinn won''t be any good. Don''t worry your little head about rounding up a posse; I''ve got some contacts from the olden times that might still be up to lend a hand. It''ll take a while. All you need to focus on is getting ready and biding your time. Keep doing your superhero... thing."

    "Hey!" Fii pouted.

    "I don''t mean that in a bad way, alright? Just keep your ear to the ground, don''t let all hell break loose. Stay away from Salvatore. Let me handle that front, and when I''ve found more, we''ll be back at this table and planning."

    "You''ll tell me as soon as you hear anything?" Fii asked, a hint of impatience in her voice. Waiting was not her strongest skill.

    "I will," Virgil responded, holding her gaze. He pointed to her temple and said, "Just try not to overthink it or rush in. Don''t do anything impulsive like fly over The Wall into the Metropolis. I can see what you''re thinking. Trust me, it''ll get ugly. Besides, if Edith is in the Wastes, then she isn''t in the Metropolis, and vice versa."

    It was almost funny how well he could read her.

    "But... isn''t taking our time risky?" Fii voiced, a stubborn frown pulling at her features. "She''s out there, in who-knows-what kind of trouble. Meanwhile, we''re here, waiting."

    Virgil huffed, crossing his arms and looking unimpressed. "I know Salvatore. He won''t hurt her. Not until he''s fully utilized everything she knows. Edith would know this too. She''d cooperate, in her own way, to buy herself some time. Of that, I''m sure. I''m sure that she also expects you to be looking for her."

    He rose from his chair, indicating their conversation was at its end.

    Fii sat silently for a moment. There wasn''t a smidgen of uncertainty in Virgil''s voice, and he wasn''t one for blind optimism either. It was... strangely reassuring.

    "Okay," she said finally, a hint of frustration lingering in her tone. "But if we take too long, or the rescue falls through..."

    "You can hang me from The Wall as punishment," Virgil retorted, waving his hand dismissively. "And if I somehow screw this up and I don''t end up dead, then sure, you have my permission to just end me yourself."

    It was clear he didn''t care about any threats or idle worries, so Fii exhaled slowly. "That''s a deal I''d rather not see through."

    "Me neither," he agreed. "Me neither. Now go on. Go help some old folks, punch some gangs in the face or something. I''ll keep digging and let you know what I find."

    With a nod that felt heavier than she liked, Fii pushed up from the table and rose to her feet. "Alright," she conceded. "Just... remember, I''ve got skin in this game too." She stood there, hands on the back of the old wooden chair, an expectant look on her face.

    "I''m aware. Now scram, get going," he replied, flapping his hand at her in a shooing gesture. "Oh, one last thing. Supers from the Metropolis might start showing up. For you. So, just be careful. Try not to kill them, if you can. No one likes a repeat performance. Some of those Supers are also friends of mine. Not very good friends, mind you, but friends. But no promises. Your life is more important than their life."

    Well, that was an ugly thought.

    "Will do, and thanks for the heads-up," Fii mumbled, turning away and picking her path carefully through the debris-cluttered room, making her way toward the exit. One final glance over her shoulder revealed Virgil, already engrossed in his notes, planning his next move.

    Good luck, old man. We both need it.

    Suddenly, a loud bang made her jump. Something whizzed past her ear and embedded itself in the wall ahead with a thud. No sooner had she spun around than another shot rang out, kicking up a puff of dust near her feet.

    Looking down, she realized there was a hole in the floor, a perfectly rounded, fresh hole that glared up at her. The floorboards around it were slightly scorched.

    Glancing up and looking across the room, she saw Virgil sitting, one arm thrown over the back of the chair and his revolver casually pointed in her direction. Smoke curled lazily from its barrel. Did he just shoot at me?!

    Their eyes locked, and the gunslinger offered her a half-grin.

    "W-What was that for?!" Fii blurted, gesturing at the smoking gun. A nervous laugh bubbled up, a laugh of someone who was absolutely shocked. "Are you... I mean, did you just... what?"

    "Don''t worry your pretty little head off," Virgil responded, setting his revolver on the desk. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a silver cigar case that opened with a flick of his wrist. Picking one, he used the still-smouldering barrel of his revolver to light it, taking a deep drag. Then, after a sigh of smoke, he said, "Just checking."

    "Checking? By shooting at me?!"

    "I needed to make sure you''re always on your toes. Before I left to investigate, I told you to always keep your gravity barrier thing active in case of sudden... surprises. Didn''t I?"

    Yes. Yes, he did. But still! Shooting at her wasn''t...

    "Good on ya that you listened," he gruffed, casually examining his nails. "Everyone knows who you are now. Anyone with a gun who has a thing against you might just take a shot at you at any time, any place. You need to be ready for that. An assassin won''t send you a calling card first."

    Fair point. Sure, but...

    She hadn''t dropped her guard. In fact, she''d kept it up more than usual. There was always a gravitational barrier around her, an instinctive reaction to avoid trouble. Nothing could touch her unless she wanted it to. No knives, bullets, punches, or whatever else people could throw at her. That barrier was her first line of defense.

    But there was a trade-off. Since activating it constantly was draining, Fii could only pull off other, more complex maneuvers occasionally. Too much exertion risked burnout. Not only that, she couldn''t grab or hold onto anything with her hands and not have them go flying away.

    So, in many cases, she just turned it off. But nowadays? As he said, now was not the time to slack off on personal protection¡ªwhich was why Virgil''s ''test'' got deflected and instead scared the ever-living crap out of her.

    When she slept, she even kept the barrier active but changed the shape to a dome that covered her whole bed. This drained more of her stamina, but the peace of mind was worth the risk. It was the only way she could feel comfortable sleeping. Otherwise, anyone could walk in and just...

    Just do anything. Anything at all.

    For a long moment, Fii watched as smoke languidly drifted from Virgil''s cigar towards the ceiling. Well, she wasn''t going to stand around for more shooting practice. Her hand found the door frame and she glanced back at Virgil one more time, noticing how his smile hadn''t faded.

    "You''re an asshole," she remarked dryly before stepping out and into the overcast day beyond.

    Just before the door closed behind her, she heard his response. "You''re welcome."

 Chapter 3: The Wires

    The slums were always awake. Even in the dead of night, when the sky was a dim and hazy bruise overhead, lights flickered in the cracks of broken walls and in the makeshift hovels lining the alleys. There was a pulse here, the sound of survival. Not everyone was hunting for scraps, but they were all searching. Food, work, safety... sometimes, it was as simple as looking for a place to call home.

    Even in the darkness, there were colors¡ªsprays of graffiti that marked territory, some recent, others fading away with the memories of what they used to mean. Above, the wires that crisscrossed the skyline buzzed and hummed, bringing what little power trickled down to the ground, offering a semblance of technology for those willing to steal it.

    Every corner hid a story, a struggle, or a sin. Yet, even in this chaos, there was an order. It was an order only the inhabitants understood¡ªthe children of the streets, the hustlers, and the ones who had known no other life. To the outsiders¡ªthe suits from the Metropolis or the occasional do-gooder visitors¡ªthis world seemed like a dissonant, dirty symphony.

    But to Fii, to those like Quinn, Joe, Sheri, and even Kasumi, it was harmony, no matter how dissonant it seemed.

    Atop one of the many condemned skyscrapers of the slums, Fii stood, her long white hair rippling in the wind like a flame caught in a storm, likely caused by the jets of some passerby HighRise''s shuttle overhead. Her usually bright blue eyes now watched the scene below with a peculiar sharpness, piercing through the layers of darkness and shadow that pooled in the narrow crevices between the buildings.

    The old hoodie she wore blended into the night like a shadow, torn and tattered but comfortable, its edges fraying, yet not nearly enough to be unwearable. She''d gotten too attached to it to let go. She sometimes thought maybe it was a bit too big for her frame, but she liked it like that.

    Underneath, she had her more form-fitting bodysuit that covered her from the neck down. Her combat gloves were already on, and so were her signature rollerblades, ready for what she had planned tonight.

    During the last couple of weeks, she''d been enjoying the small breaks she had, like actually getting some sleep, going on a date with Quinn, watching videos on the ''Net, or reading a book. Of course, being with Quinn was the best part of it all.

    Tonight, however, she was determined to stay up. The other night had been... weird. Not to mention the unease she felt at having missed two nights of patrol.

    With a quiet exhale, she launched herself off the ledge, wind pulling at her hair as she sailed through the air.

    Her power sparked within her. The force of gravity, which would ordinarily pull her downwards, seemed to hesitate before bending to her will. She commanded it, twisted it, molded it to her purposes. Instead of plunging toward the cracked, worn pavement below, she redirected her descent.

    The effect was immediate, and it made her grin. She rocketed parallel to the street, swiftly transitioning from free-falling to speeding above the rooftops of the slums. Then, she shot upward into the sky.

    Fii always dreamed of flying, and her superpower let her do just that, in her own way. As the cool night air rushed past her face, the moon shone above, almost full and seemingly close enough to touch. But it wasn''t close, of course. No more than she could reach out and grab the stars. But still, the illusion was there. A lie, perhaps, but a pretty one.

    The rooftops of the slums spread out beneath her, a landscape all its own. Many of these buildings had lived out their glory days, their broken windows and crumbling facades testifying to a history that most in the Metropolis would rather forget.

    Fii shot forward, letting her body orient itself parallel to the rooftops that sprawled out beneath her. The lines of building tops looked like cracks on old skin.

    This wasn''t flying in the sense of defying gravity¡ªit was more about manipulating it, which in her book was even better. She couldn''t simply ignore gravity; the potential energy had to go somewhere.

    No, what she could do was to alter its direction, render it harmless by aligning it with her movements. That was the beauty of it¡ªshe could change the way gravity interacted with her, reshaping its force to suit her needs. It was an intricate dance of control and release, one that blurred the boundary between falling and gliding, all while being meticulously aware of the consequences of a single misstep.

    If her power wasn''t aligned correctly, or if she miscalculated, that harmless vector could very quickly turn into a catapult or a deadly fall.

    Still, there was always an intrinsic risk to using her power. Manipulating gravity so she could glide smoothly required her to sustain the gravitational energy involved. It made her body feel heavier, sluggish. To an observer, it might look like she was casually flying, but inside, her very cells were grappling with the strain¡ªan unseen cost to the freedom she was enjoying. A power that both liberated and tethered her.

    There was another facet to her ability¡ªa more violent and direct application, not as subtle as the gliding she was currently doing. If she wasn''t careful, if her focus wavered or her intent was unclear, the power she harnessed could, quite literally, crush anything nearby. Imagine invisible hands crushing a soda can¡ªthat''s what she could do, but on a larger scale and with far messier consequences.

    Prime had been the ultimate example of that.

    Yet, there were more... mysterious parts to her power. Ones she was still discovering, piecing together through instinct and accident.

    Like the bizarre sensation that overcame her sometimes, a sixth sense that was hard to describe or understand. It wasn''t a typical sense, not taste, smell, hearing, touch, or sight. No, it was more of a strange and ephemeral connection to the space around her.

    She could "feel" the tug of every object, aware of every molecule''s presence and motion¡ªa phantom touch that brushed against her consciousness without warning. One moment, nothing; the next, it would flare up, overwhelming her senses.

    These moments were rare and hard to predict, almost as though her power had a will of its own. It wasn''t a constant companion but a fleeting visitor¡ªunless she really concentrated, then sometimes she could trigger it.

    Pushing those thoughts aside, she launched herself skyward again. Each time she reached the zenith of her arc, she''d redirect the pull of gravity, hurling herself forward. Each flick of her wrist, each subtle shift of her weight adjusted the invisible tendrils of gravity that she commanded, sending her arching high above the slums'' rooftop landscape.

    From this vantage, she could see the sprawling patchwork of forgotten buildings and the intricate dance of neon lights marking various pockets of life below.

    Her destination lay ahead, The Wires. A cluster of old skyscrapers straddling the edge of the sector¡ªone of the many spots where cargo funneled in and out of the slums. Ziplines hung between these towering sentinels of steel and concrete, an aerial highway for those nimble and brave enough to navigate.

    They crisscrossed the skyline, thick cables running from building to building, forming a web that spread far and wide across the slums. Platforms dotted the heights, connecting the wire lines, creating nodes of activity high above the ground.

    Not just anyone could use them. Only the quickest, most adept, and fearless made use of this network¡ªthe Zippers. They rode these wires, using harnesses and specialized mechanical devices that allowed them to shoot across, to and from different locations. Not only that, they also sped along the lines on cable-carts, transferring goods and information or even transporting the occasional person. If something needed to move from one side of the slums to the other quickly, it went through The Wires.

    They were a lifeline, not just for the Zippers, but for the whole community.

    As Fii approached an elevated platform, her grin softened. Leaning into her power, she skewed the gravity around her. In response, her descent eased into a graceful arc. Her rollerblades grazed the floor for just a moment before she allowed herself to land softly, her impact barely registering on the platform''s surface.

    Ahead, she spotted the trio of Zippers preparing for their evening run¡ªLuxy, Mica, and Taro. The three of them were huddled around a rusted spool of cable, their fingers working in perfect tandem as they adjusted and tested their equipment.

    Fii recognized the slight tilt of Mica''s head, the way his eyes darted quickly to check the tension in the line before he gave it a satisfied tug. Luxy, his sister, was right beside him, her blonde hair tied into a ponytail that trailed down her back. She was testing the hooks of her harness, while Taro, the oldest of the trio with his shaved head and laid-back demeanor, tinkered with the metal winches.

    She approached quietly, her rollerblades clacking softly against the uneven surface beneath her.

    Mica glanced up first, his brown hair falling over his eyes. "Hey," he greeted her, his tone relaxed, almost lazy. "Fancy seeing you here." The words had barely left his lips when Fii extended an arm and let her power ripple outwards, inverting the local gravity slightly.

    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

    An errant nut and bolt sitting atop the equipment beside Mica found themselves ensnared by her influence, rising from their metallic perch to gently spin in the air.

    Mica''s eyes widened at the sight, and his mouth tugged upwards in a smirk. "Nice. Always like when you come ''round for a visit. You''re our good luck charm," he said, reaching out and plucking the floating hardware from the air before tossing them back onto the platform.

    Meanwhile, Luxy glanced up, her gray-brown eyes looking at Fii first, then towards the spinning nut and bolt with an air of interest, before turning her attention back to her harness. "We missed ya. No one to tease around here without you. ''s been kinda quiet lately. A bit too peaceful."

    "Next time, bring Quinn," Taro chimed in, a smile hidden in his stubbled cheek. "He always overthinks everything. Good for some laughs."

    Fii felt her smile deepen. "That''s nice, you only want me around to make fun of my boyfriend." She pushed the words out through a smile. "And so you know, I''m not gonna bring him just so you all can taunt him. I''m not that cruel."

    "He brings it on himself," Luxy teased.

    "Maybe a little bit," Fii chuckled, conceding with a slight roll of her eyes. The wind played gently with her hair, a few strands crossing her vision as the trio turned their attention back to the gear, only a few last-minute checks left.

    "You joining us?" Mica asked, not missing a beat and offering a tilt of his head to acknowledge Fii''s inclusion.

    In response, Fii shrugged, trying to play coy. "Might. Feelin'' a bit restless and bored lately."

    Luxy looked up again, her expression relaxing into a welcoming grin. "Works for me. It''s been a while since we''ve had the chance to chill. Tin talk''s scarce these days. We could use some fresh intel." That drew a little laugh out of Mica, who nodded, not arguing the point at all.

    Fii let out a half-hearted groan, placing a hand on her forehead in mock despair. "And here I was, thinking you wanted my company, not just what I know. Anyways, what''s the word? Business as usual?"

    "Pretty much. We''ve got an airship barge docking soon¡ªnothing out of the ordinary. Should be a smooth night." Luxy stretched out, her movements supple and cat-like, the telltale sign of pre-run jitters easing through her limbs. With one fluid motion, she flipped her hair back, not so subtly showing off. Classic Luxy.

    Luxy shot Fii a wink. "That is unless you plan on spicing things up, superhero."

    Rolling her eyes and pulling down her hood, Fii flipped her longer white locks right in front of Luxy''s face, mirroring the gesture with a mischievous smile. "Relax, will you? I''m not here to rain on your parade. Think of this as a friendly, casual visit, okay?"

    A laugh escaped Luxy. "Fine, fine. You do you. Just don''t slow us down, ya hear?"

    With all the cockiness she could muster, Fii planted a hand on her hip, shifting her weight to one side. "Slow you down? You''re kidding, right? In your dreams."

    "All sizzle, no steak." Mica piped up. His hands were now busy coiling and securing the line.

    "Watch it!" Fii''s grin widened. "If you keep yapping, I might just flip your gravity, and then we''ll see who''s talking." It was an empty threat, delivered in jest, and the smug grin on Mica''s face confirmed that he, too, was simply playing along.

    Luxy extended her legs and leaned her back against the wall, easing into a forward fold, her palms settling on the metal platform, touching her toes. A habit she had whenever it was almost time for them to get started. "Yeah, yeah, I''m sure you could flip all of us over. But we still need to be on the same page, got it?"

    "Yeah, I got it! Zipped those lips!"

    Together, they finished setting up, Fii lending a hand as they adjusted the lines and secured gear for the upcoming shipment. She worked alongside them, her hands becoming familiar with the routines and rhythm, though her eyes couldn''t help but scan the skies for the telltale sign of the airship''s arrival.

    As they worked, the conversation drifted naturally toward the Wires and their role in keeping the slums running.

    "People think it''s all about speed," Luxy said as she hiked herself up on the zip-line, "but really, it''s much more than that. It''s about understanding the flow. Knowing which lines are secure, which are frayed, which ones have been tampered with. Every night, it''s different."

    Taro gave a grunt of agreement. "Especially these days," he chimed in. "Too many gangs think they can hijack our deliveries. You have to stay one step ahead, always."

    Mica, in his characteristically quiet manner, nodded. "At least with you around, most of ''em back off. Too much hassle to deal with the ''slum''s guardian angel,'' right?"

    "Oh, stop it," Fii brushed off the comment, her cheeks warming slightly. "I just keep an eye out, that''s all."

    Yet, she couldn''t deny the hint of pride swelling within her. Being recognized by those she had come to respect was... flattering.

    Without fanfare or the peeling honk in the distance to announce its arrival, the airship materialized over the nearby skyscraper. Slowly, surely, the barge lumbered into view, an old model that had seen better days, its hull scraped and worn. Two sets of vertical propellers at the stern were its primary source of propulsion.

    If she''d heard right, they were models from the early years of airship use in the Metropolis, now well past their prime but still put to good use. They were loud and didn''t let you know when they were going to give in, and break down. Even from a distance, their hum was like an old friend''s grumble¡ªfamiliar, comfortable, and maybe a bit grumpy.

    "Right on time," Luxy muttered, her eyes following the ship''s approach. "Looks like they''re prepping the drop-off."

    A square-shaped aperture on the side of the craft opened, revealing a man dressed in all green. A high-vis vest rested over his attire, and a matching cap sat atop his head. Standard airship crew clothing.

    "That''s our signal!" Taro chimed in, flicking a small switch on the remote control he had. "The drop is approaching. I''ll keep an eye from above, guide the lines as you go."

    Fii adjusted her hood, pulling it securely over her head and moving into position alongside the other Zippers. Each of them connected to the line using their specialized pulleys, bracing for the impending descent.

    With a resounding clunk from within the airship, a container, white and boxy, descended on a large pulley. Ropes hugging its sides ensured it swayed minimally in the breeze.

    From there, the procedure was simple: they''d wait for it to be deposited at one of the dismount locations, disconnect the cables holding the container to the crane, and then ride The Wires, dragging the shipment along with them from within a cable-cart until they reached the drop-off point in the slums.

    And then they''d do it again and again until the night''s shipment was complete. Always moving, always something new.

    After the large container finished lowering, the Zippers¡ªMica, Luxy, and Taro¡ªpulled the container closer to the platform. The heavy cable and crank system were easy for them to work, even without Fii''s help.

    As they unloaded the cargo, Fii silently guided the crates onto the platform with her abilities, manipulating the containers gently and precisely. Her control over gravity made tasks that would have otherwise been cumbersome and time-consuming surprisingly effortless.

    She carefully lowered each crate to its designated spot, her hands weaving invisible threads of power to guide their descent. As she worked, the trio of Zippers looked on, their expressions a mix of appreciation and mild jealousy.

    "Show-off," Luxy muttered under her breath, her eyes narrowing as she watched the next box floating softly into place. But her tone belied her grin, revealing her words held no genuine bite. It was hard to be frustrated at increased efficiency.

    It didn''t take long to unload the full container, all three Zippers and Fii working quickly. As soon as they finished, the airship''s hooks reattached to the now-empty container, and it was quickly lifted into the sky once more, back into the waiting clutches of the airship to be retrieved.

    After the cargo doors sealed shut, the ship slowly inched forward, the low hum of its engines powering up for the return journey home.

    "Aight," Mica said, making the ''ok'' gesture with his hand and scanning the array of containers sprawled out before them. "Next order of business: getting this down."

    Luxy squinted at a spreadsheet clipped to one of the crates. "We''ve got a few other locations, so we''ve gotta split these up." She pointed to a set of crates, all of them branded with their distinctive stamp.

    "These barges," Taro began, gently rapping his knuckles against one of the larger crates, "they''re a godsend, honestly. Not everything that gets dropped off is useful, but it''s better than nothing. Plus, we get to skim a little off the top before it hits the streets."

    Fii chuckled. "Skimming, huh? Is that what we''re calling it now?"

    "Hey, they can spare it," Mica defended, a lopsided smirk on his face. "Gotta make sure we''re covered for the trouble, right?"

    Luxy butted in. "Yeah, hazard pay and all. Life on The Wires isn''t exactly risk-free, you know? But Taro''s right. These ships come in from all over. Metropolis traders mostly, but a lot of them are freelancers, looking to make a quick buck off the books. They stop by here on their way back to the city, drop off goods they couldn''t sell at full price. Some of it''s donations from the Metropolis support groups, but most of it''s just leftovers."

    "This stuff''s gonna go a long way," Taro added, securing another crate. "We''ve had folks in the lower districts waitin'' weeks for some of this tech. Not to mention the food¡ªhalf the slum''s on Synthies right now."

    "Has it been that bad?" Fii asked. "I mean, the food situation, specifically?"

    "The farms?" Luxy answered for him, nodding. "Oh, yeah. Way worse than usual. We''ve had plenty of rain this season but just not enough sun. Crop yields are through the floor right now. Everything that isn''t dried out is being hiked up, price-wise. Let me tell ya, the last good meal I had was three weeks ago at a run-down noodle shack."

    Taro had his arms crossed, as he grunted, "Imagine the horror: not eating good food for so long."

    She flipped him a rude gesture. He chuckled in response.

    "Same here. The Slum runs on leftovers. That''s nothing new. But even then, meals are sparse if you''ve got no connections. Fresh fruit? Forget it." Mica''s face had a half-grimace on it. "Last time I had a fruit was... can''t remember when. Yesterday, all I had was a bowl of noodle broth, watered-down, at that."

    Fii bit her lip, staring down at the containers. This was terrible. Food scarcity was something that had always existed in the slums, but she hadn''t realized it was this bad.

    "It''s fine. Just shows how good we had it while scavenging." Taro reached over to clap a reassuring hand on Fii''s shoulder, surprising her. He never usually did that. "Relax, superhero, not like there''s much you can do about it. Plus, we''ve been worse off."

    Fii gave a nod. "Right, yeah."

    Together, they started loading up the first of many cable-carts with cargo. The cart was an invention of theirs, a metal cage connected to the zip-line, allowing them to ride the wire safely and quickly. It was equipped with a metal pulley and gears system that they all activated whenever it was time to launch, hooking onto a zip-line.

    As they filled the first cart, Taro tilted his head and asked, "Who''s riding the line to the warehouse?"

    "Rock-paper-scissors?" Mica suggested, glancing around at the group.

    They agreed and played the game quickly. In the end, Taro threw rock, and Luxy paper, earning her the spot. She grinned, high-fiving Mica in triumph. "Let''s go then, ground-pounders," she said, the sound of her pulley''s humming the only sign it was moving to the zip-line, latching on tight. "Load me up!"

 Chapter 4: Silent Portent

    Luxy positioned herself in the cable-cart as Mica and Taro worked swiftly to secure the crates. The cargo rattled faintly as it slid into place, the sounds of metal grating against metal merging with the wind and distant city noises that permeated the background. The cart, now full, groaned softly under the weight of the crates, but the Zippers had built it sturdy¡ªluxury by slum standards.

    With one last check of her harness and a sharp whistle, Luxy gave the signal, and Mica disengaged the brake on the pulley system. The cart lurched forward, and within seconds, Luxy was off, shooting down the line with practiced ease. Her blonde hair streamed behind her, caught in the wind as she accelerated away from the platform, disappearing between the towering shadows of the neighboring buildings.

    Mica kept a hand on the zip-line, monitoring the vibrations to ensure everything went smoothly. Taro stared at his scanner, focusing on the dots, likely representing the cart''s movement.

    "You good?" Fii asked, walking to stand beside Taro, craning her neck to glance at the small device he held.

    "She''s good." He glanced sideways at her. "Want to see?"

    "Yeah. Are you sure?" Fii muttered. The last time she touched it, she got scolded by Mica and was told to never touch it again.

    "Just this once."

    Taking the device gently from his grip, her eyes swept over the screen. It displayed a map of the immediate area, each of the Zippers marked by distinct glowing icons: Luxy''s yellow dot moved swiftly along the thick red line, signifying the zip-line''s path.

    Their platforms were marked in green, while other Zippers'' positions dotted the grid, indicating the vibrant network of lines and movement pulsating through the slums. No matter how often she saw it, the visual complexity and energy of The Wires were stunning.

    She wondered what people in the Metropolis would think, seeing how much life, hustle, and purpose existed in the slums. Many seemed to believe it was all dead here¡ªa wasteland that shouldn''t be. How wrong they were, how much life there was. How much drive.

    "How does it work?" She tapped the screen. "Tracking."

    "Dunno. Tiny pucks."

    "But you don''t even know why? Or how?" she pried. "Just that it works?"

    Taro let out an exaggerated sigh. "This stuff is all used and refurbished. Pucks use proximity sensors and basic location tracking, which you can see on the device''s grid map. See where everyone is. Some other things too, I think, but not much else. Range isn''t as good as it used to be¡ªgets unreliable when lines overlap too much¡ªbut it gets the job done."

    "That''s cool."

    "Yeah, most of the equipment isn''t new. Just... patched up. Outdated, even. We''re lucky we can piggyback on the GPS grid the Metropolis set up. Tech over there is something else entirely."

    She watched the yellow dot zip past another node on the screen before handing the device back. "Thanks."

    "No problem, Supes." He responded without breaking his concentration, the nickname sounding less mocking than usual.

    "Hey, wanna tag along with me on the next run?" Mica interrupted, glancing up from a crate he was prepping. His brown eyes sparkled with what she recognized as playful challenge¡ªa familiar glint of mischief that often meant he was planning something. "Or is our illustrious hero too high and mighty to hitch a ride now?"

    Fii laughed, shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly. She lifted a foot and wiggled it, showing off her trusty rollerblades. "You sure you can handle me?"

    "Just strap yourself to a cable cart and hold tight," he responded, his grin spreading wider. "Not rocket science."

    "Dude, I can fly. I don''t need a harness to keep me steady."

    He rolled his eyes. "Fair enough, Supes, fair enough. I just figured it''d be nice not to have to make the trip alone. But hey, if you''re too good for a regular Zippers'' ride..."

    "Okay, okay." Fii stepped closer, a conspiratorial lean to her posture. "Let me in on the fun. But on one condition: we gotta beat Luxy to the pickup. Think you''re up for it, wire-boy?"

    Mica''s smile stretched almost from ear to ear, his hand reaching back to cup the back of his neck. "Wire-boy, eh? Cute. All right, challenge accepted. Hop in!"

    Wasting no time, Fii found a spot in the cart, sitting cross-legged in front of the stack of crates while Mica took the helm. With a series of practiced motions, he activated the pulley system and released the brake. Gravity took over, their cart launching smoothly onto the zip-line.

    Immediately, the wind whipped at them, threatening to send Fii''s hood flying if it weren''t for her instinctive gravitational counterbalance that kept everything firmly in place. Beside her, Mica shifted his weight, maneuvering the cart expertly along the wire''s course, navigating the winding journey across the slum''s aerial thoroughfares.

    Taro''s voice crackled through the small walkie-talkie in Mica''s hand. "Luxy''s about 300 meters ahead of you. Platform Four."

    "Roger that," Mica responded, clicking the button on the device to speak. "We''re closing in."

    "Not quick enough," a different voice chirped in¡ªLuxy. "Better catch up if you want that win. Maybe our Superhero can give you a push!"

    "Should I?" Fii asked.

    "Hell no, these lines have speed limits. It''s all about finesse."

    With a yank of the winch control, their cable cart leaned heavily to one side, arcing precariously close to a neighboring wire. Mica deftly manipulated the tension and angle, and suddenly, they were sliding along the second wire, now veering down a sharp descent.

    "You''re crazy!" she yelled over the whooshing wind, clutching the sides of the cart in surprise, heart hammering in her chest. Despite her abilities, there was always something thrilling about physical stunts like this¡ªthey just felt more real, more visceral.

    The Zippers'' laughter filtered back to her through the walkie-talkie''s speaker, followed by Mica''s breathless chuckle. "That''s one word for it!"

    Mica continued to navigate them through a series of elaborate maneuvers, seemingly heedless of the whizzing cables and looming structures. In contrast, Fii clung to the cart, feeling the air buffet her cheeks and hair as they carved their way through the night.

    She was definitely reevaluating her assessment of the Zippers'' daily routines.

    An abrupt shift in direction interrupted her thoughts as the cart lurched under her. Leaning into the turn, she caught a brief glimpse of Luxy''s blonde ponytail fluttering in the wind before she disappeared around a corner ahead of them.

    "You''ll never make up the distance doing that!" Luxy taunted, her voice carrying on the breeze before crackling through the walkie-talkie, a teasing edge to her words.

    "Let''s get her!" Fii urged Mica on.

    Eyes focused on the lines, Mica smirked, then made a few adjustments. "Hang tight, Fii! I''ve got a shortcut!" With that warning, he swung them abruptly from their current line onto a different wire with a small jolt, an unexpected divergence that sent them skimming dangerously close to the side of a building.

    "Woo-hoo!" Fii couldn''t help but let out a whoop of exhilaration. "Go, go, go!"

    Their shortcut paid off; they were now parallel with Luxy. Her face came into view, displaying a mix of amusement and feigned indignation. "Using a shortcut? Tsk, tsk. Cheating, are we?"

    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    "Just keeping it interesting for our VIP here!" Mica replied, jabbing a thumb in Fii''s direction while his other hand worked the controls.

    "Of course, ''cos the princess needs special treatment."

    Fii rolled her eyes, but before she could answer, a strange sound pricked her ears. A low, droning hum, almost like a distant insect swarm, growing louder by the second.

    "What is that?" she muttered, glancing up.

    The sound intensified, and suddenly a figure shot into view from a nearby zipline¡ªdark clothes, a gleaming helmet, moving fast.

    Another Zipper? But this one seemed... different.

    He was barreled toward Luxy''s cart at breakneck speed, his form hunched over, gloved hands gripping the pulley in a death-like hold.

    His arrival triggered a shift in both Luxy and Mica. Their laughter died, and they exchanged nervous glances across the chasm between their carts.

    "Hey, who the hell is that?" Mica growled into the walkie-talkie. "That''s not one of ours."

    Luxy shook her head. Her voice came through crackly and tense. "I don''t recognize them, either."

    The rogue Zipper kept pace with Luxy''s cart, staying uncomfortably close¡ªtoo close.

    "The fuck are you?!" Mica shouted, his voice straining over the howl of the wind. But the rider, clad in a dark helmet, didn''t respond.

    "I''ll handle this." Without hesitation, Fii levitated up and out of the cable-cart, bringing herself just behind their new arrival. But at their current speed, it was difficult to stabilize her trajectory.

    Drawing deep on her well of power, she focused her will on the figure ahead. His outfit looked tactical, sleek, and unfamiliar. It certainly wasn''t any of the usual Zipper attire.

    It didn''t matter though. She just had to shift the person''s vector of gravity toward her to slow him down and drag him closer to where she could grab him.

    But just as she extended her power towards him, the buzzing noise she heard earlier intensified, and a flash of light caught her attention. A glint of metal¡ªsomething small and fast, flying towards her.

    A drone. No, several drones.

    They darted around her, each moving erratically, like flies trying to outmaneuver a swatter.

    What were they trying to do?

    Suddenly, electric arcs flared between the drones, casting jagged tendrils of lightning across the air, electrifying the space around her.

    The jolt seized Fii''s body, searing her flesh and forcing the air from her lungs. Her back arched against her will, fingers clawing at nothingness.

    They tazed her!

    Time seemed to slow¡ªthe world around her dimming, her focus shrinking to the pulsating pain that coursed through her, her control faltering.

    She fell.

    Her descent was steep, but instinct took over. Drawing on every ounce of strength left in her, Fii fought the gravitational pull. She skewed its direction, curving it, gentling it, anything to avoid a fatal impact.

    Even so, the ground''s embrace was hard and merciless. She crashed against the rooftop, her momentum sending her rolling. Her body skidded on the asphalt, tumbling and rolling uncontrollably before coming to a bone-jarring halt.

    Dazed and shivering, Fii lay there, her breath ragged, her nerves on fire, as the night sky above shifted in and out of focus.

    She had been shocked a few of times before, but never so violently, never this bad. She tried to move, but her muscles refused, still twitching from the aftershocks of the volts that had ravaged through her.

    Fighting through the haze, Fii struggled to refocus.

    Mica and Luxy... Were they okay? Who was the attacker?

    <hr>

    When Fii opened her eyes again, Mica and Luxy''s faces were hovering over her, eyes wide and scared.

    Their lips moved, but all Fii could hear was a dull, static noise buzzing in her ears. Then, slowly, the sound of her surroundings began to seep back.

    "¡ªbe fine. C''mon, give her a minute." Luxy''s voice came through, low and urgent.

    "Take it easy." Mica''s tone was softer than she''d ever heard it, but his eyes couldn''t hide his concern.

    She swallowed thickly, her mouth feeling like cotton.

    "That was... a rough fall. You okay?" Luxy''s voice was full of worry as her gaze wandered over her body, searching for injuries. "Anything broken?"

    Grunting slightly, Fii tried to rise. She pushed up to her elbows, the world shifting and rolling beneath her. Vertigo. Just perfect.

    "Yeah..." The word came out like gravel in her throat. "Just a little... cooked."

    "Cooked?" Mica looked confused.

    "You know, those drones that hit me. It felt like I was being boiled alive or something. They tazed me. My whole body''s just... frayed."

    Her attempt at a casual chuckle sounded more like a dry rasp.

    Luxy frowned. "Just try to take it easy. Shock can do some wild stuff to your body, even with your... you-know-what."

    "Sure thing, Mom." Fii couldn''t help but roll her eyes, even as she winced at the simple act.

    With a helping hand from each of them, they lifted her to her feet. Once standing, Fii wobbled a bit, finding her balance. Slowly, very slowly, feeling began to return to her extremities. As the pins and needles receded, she flexed her fingers and rolled her ankles cautiously. Everything seemed to be in working order; she''d count that as a win.

    "Glad you guys are okay though," she muttered, glancing between the siblings. "But what was that? Who was that on the zipline?"

    "I don''t know," Luxy replied, shaking her head. "The one who went after me was built like a guy. After he got to my cart, he shoved me out of the way and off the line, stole the entire thing. Another one got to Mica too and did the same thing. Whoever those guys were, they had high-grade tech."

    "We''ve lost cargo before," Mica chimed in, his voice carrying a slightly more optimistic note, "it''s not great, but it happens. The difference this time was that these guys were coordinated and knew our moves. This wasn''t some random hit-and-grab."

    "So, a targeted attack. But why?" Fii wondered.

    Shrugging, Mica replied, "Beats me. The cargo they stole were all older model computers, CPUs, and hard drives. Older tech. Still valuable, but not exactly the crown jewels of hauls."

    "The real kicker though..." Luxy paused, a brow raised, "if they were part of a gang, they didn''t show any colors."

    "I mean, some gangs keep it pretty discreet, right? Just to avoid unwanted attention," Fii commented.

    "True enough, but zipping across the Wires? They must''ve had some serious skills to pull that off. Even without the hijacking and ambush. I doubt a typical goon would risk a drop from the height we''re talking about," Luxy said.

    "Agreed," Mica chimed in. "To even be a Zipper, you''ve gotta know the ropes, and those weren''t your average punks on the lines."

    "Not to mention that weird trick they pulled with the drones. Those things looked custom¡ªdefinitely not your standard market variety," Luxy added. "I swear I saw them spark, just before... you fell."

    Fii couldn''t help but wince at the thought of her tumble. Falling wasn''t a problem. Landing was. And while she had technically survived, it hadn''t been a very graceful landing.

    "What about the rest of the shipment back with Taro?" she asked.

    "Should still be there, probably waiting on us. He''ll move ''em to the new spot, but he can''t do much beyond that," Mica answered, brushing his hands against his jacket and knocking loose dust and gravel from the fabric.

    "Let''s get back then," Fii said, regaining her balance. "We gotta make sure he''s okay."

    <hr>

    On their return to the platform, they found Taro exactly where they had left him, albeit now pacing nervously around the platform. At the sight of them, his shoulders slumped in visible relief.

    "What the hell happened?" Taro''s gaze swept over their disheveled appearances, finally settling on Luxy with a soft, almost protective look. "I''ve been trying to reach you both¡ªwhy didn''t you pick up?"

    "We, uh..." Luxy''s brow furrowed. "Something came up."

    "She means to say we were ambushed," Mica clarified, rolling his shoulders to work out a kink. "Some zippers¡ªa few of them¡ªcame out of nowhere and flipped our carts."

    Taro''s eyes widened in surprise. "You''re kidding."

    Mica''s expression was somber. "Wish I was. Fii was nearly zapped to a crisp. Probably fried her brain good."

    Fii reached out, giving him a gentle punch on the arm. "I''m fine, don''t listen to him. But they had these drones; they shocked me mid-air. Couldn''t really recover from it. Was a hard fall." She turned to look at Taro. "Gotta thank Luxy and Mica for coming to my rescue, though."

    "Yeah." Mica gave a half-hearted snort, looking away. "Imagine being a Super who needs rescuing."

    "Thanks," Fii said. "Really, though, I appreciate it."

    A silence descended on the group for a brief moment before Taro cleared his throat and glanced at the remaining cargo. "Well, whoever they were. They made off with a nice little haul. I''ll relay the report to the others. Should warn them to watch their backs."

    "What about the cargo? We''re still responsible for getting it back," Luxy murmured, casting an uncertain look at the remaining boxes.

    "Nah, not our fault. The report I''ll send should excuse us from any blowback," Taro assured them. "For now, let''s stick to business as usual. Get the rest back to the warehouse, unload, and let''s call it a night. There''ll be time to figure out this mess later."

    Fii nodded. "I''ll still stick around, just in case they decide to show their faces again."

    It stung that those guys got away and she hadn''t been able to stop them. It would have been so easy to swoop in and thwart their attempt, if not for those damn drones. They were clearly expecting her. But the ambush didn''t seem malicious either. No real hostility, no casualties.

    That still didn''t excuse theft, though. Fii clenched her fist, watching Luxy prep for her next run.

    Finding out who those guys were would be on her to-do list. That was for sure.

    For that, she needed to consult a friend, and thankfully, she had just the person in mind.

 Chapter 5: Tweak

    Fii ducked under a loose, low-hanging wire as she slipped through the maze of alleys leading to Tweak''s hideout, the looming walls of the rundown structures boxing her in from all sides. The usual caution was necessary; many of these routes were ideal ambush spots, the tight corners offering little room for escape. Her feet navigated the broken concrete pavement without a stumble, weaving around scattered debris and littering the area.

    The air smelled of burnt circuitry and cheap synth-fuel, tinged with a faint whiff of whatever was being cooked in the nearby vendor''s stall, an oily, synthetic aroma that stuck in the back of her throat. Overhead, the haphazard tangle of wires stretched and twisted, forming an unsightly canopy against the afternoon sky.

    The further she went from the Rust Market''s clamor, the quieter it became, save for the soft hum of energy coursing through the overhead power lines, like an ever-present whisper in the background¡ªa subtle reminder of the slums'' dependence on the electricity they had stolen and harnessed from the metropolis.

    Taking a right at the junction where a particularly dilapidated building leaned ominously close to its neighbor, threatening to collapse into the narrow passage, she arrived at the back alley.

    Most of the faces Fii passed were familiar¡ªthe kids who always tried to grab a glimpse of Tweak working her tech, the elderly residents stooped on their porches, and the local dealer leaning lazily against a wall, his eyes giving her a once-over as she moved by.

    Not everyone recognized her. A few folks were out and about here and there, minding their own business or mingling in small groups, their conversations dipping between murmurs and laughter.

    Tweak''s hideout wasn''t far, tucked away in the corner of an abandoned comms hub¡ªa defunct building from the old times. It was a place the rest of the slum-dwellers avoided, its purpose lost to most but not to Tweak. The girl had turned it into her personal sanctuary and workshop, making sure few knew where to find her, and that made it the perfect rendezvous point.

    The entry was easily missed, thanks to the facade of graffiti-covered bricks. Those who knew, knew where to look.

    Crouching down in front of the bricked-up portion of the wall, Fii discreetly double-tapped a brick two rows from the base and three over, the concealed identification button scanning her fingerprint. It beeped softly.

    She glanced up. From her perspective, she could spot the almost perfectly hidden camera watching her.

    Staring straight at the lens, she spoke, "I need a consult with the hairdresser."

    A grating noise followed, and part of the wall slid away, revealing a passageway into the building. Ducking through the low opening, she entered a dark hallway that stretched ahead, lit only by dim, flickering bulbs strung along the ceiling.

    As soon as she was inside, the wall closed behind her, and the hum of electricity faded back in. The air was heavy with dust and the lingering scent of fried electronics. Rust stains marked the walls, and a patina of grime covered every surface. Wires hung from the ceiling, trailing down like vines, and the floor was a cluttered mess of disused chairs, boxes, and scattered tools.

    She dodged and weaved her way through the obstructions towards the heart of the hub.

    This area had seen better days, no doubt, but no worse than any of the decrepit shacks lining the surrounding streets. It was a marvel it still functioned. Yet, she wouldn''t put it past Tweak to have scrounged up parts from all sorts of sources and spliced them together, getting just enough to keep the hub up and running, even when it looked more likely to collapse from a sneeze than stand the test of time.

    Deeper inside the hideout, Fii reached a door labeled "Control Room." Pushing it open, she stepped into the makeshift studio Tweak had dubbed her lair¡ªa chaotic mash-up of sleek and retro. From the doorway, Fii could hear the rapid-fire taps of fingers on keys mingling with the hushed hum of high-performance computer fans.

    Tweak herself was in her usual spot, perched on a swiveling chair that looked like it had been salvaged from a hundred different places. One leg was shorter than the others, causing it to wobble ever so slightly as she leaned back, her legs casually propped up on a beaten-up console. Her hood was pushed down, letting her shock of dark red hair spill out, covering up most of her cybernetic eye.

    One arm, covered in intricate tattoos, busied itself at the keyboard, while the other extended towards a half-empty can of neon green ''buzz.''

    When Fii approached, Tweak acknowledged her with a nod and a wicked grin, but her fingers never ceased their frantic dance, tapping out commands that could either be cracking into some corporate database or just posting a piece of doge on a forum, Fii couldn''t tell.

    On the holographic display next to her, an eclectic array of images flitted past: street maps, weather reports, intercepted messages, and satellite imagery of the slums. It seemed like she was monitoring everything, everywhere.

    "You know, I bet your mom called you a chameleon," Fii quipped, a playful grin spreading across her face as she surveyed the chaotic mash of decorations around the lair.

    "That''s putting it mildly." Tweak let out a laugh. "A walking talking dictionary maybe, but probably more the kinda girl a normal kid would get nightmares from."

    "Being ''normal'' is overrated," Fii replied, a chuckle escaping her.

    Tweak stretched, the buzz can in her hand giving off a playful, fizzy sound. "Took you long enough," she said with a slightly raspy tone. "Thought something held you up for a minute."

    "Well, you know the rust market: full of fun folks."

    "Mm-hmm, your idea of fun is pretty warped." She winked. "Not judging, though." Tweak laughed, taking a sip of her drink. The way the glow of the screen played against her sharp features gave her an impish look. But Fii knew there was more to her than that deceptively cute face. Underneath all the bravado, Tweak was smart, cunning, and had a knack for making things happen, whatever they may be.

    They settled into a comfortable rhythm, and the conversation flowed. They caught up, delving into the mundane and the not-so-mundane, comparing notes on their respective gigs, swapping stories about the ups and downs of slum life. Throughout their chat, Tweak kept working, her hands flitting over the keyboard as she typed, occasionally pausing to take another swig from her neon can of ''Buzz.''If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    "So what was so important? Not every day I get to see you this time of the afternoon." Tweak raised an eyebrow, curiosity lighting her face. "A girl needs her beauty sleep."

    "Um..." Fii hesitated. "I was with the Zippers... they got hit."

    That grabbed Tweak''s attention. Her typing halted and her posture shifted, leaning forward in her chair with an intense gaze. Her heterochromatic eyes¡ªone green, one a sharp violet from the cybernetic implant¡ªzeroed in on Fii, seeming to read her even before the words could leave her mouth. "No shit, seriously?"

    "Mica and Luxy''s crates were hijacked off the Wire by a Zipper they''ve never seen before. The guy was flying across the lines like a freakin'' spider monkey on nitro. Had a bunch of drones that flew up and almost fried me." Fii still felt a twinge of irritation when recalling her brief moment of helplessness. It wasn''t a feeling she was used to¡ªor liked.

    "Sounds like a hell of a night." Tweak sat back, looking thoughtful. "Never seen before? They snatch anything good?"

    "Nah, just older computer parts. Thing is, they didn''t flash any gang colors or signs. Mica and Luxy were completely thrown off." Fii couldn''t shake the thought that there might be more to the attack. After all, if someone went to all the trouble of launching an intricate operation, stealing tech without any obvious indication of their affiliation, they were either being deliberately obtuse or had a purpose other than petty theft.

    Fii grunted in agreement. "I''d put nothing past those turds."

    Tweak''s smile faltered slightly, a glint of concern flickering across her face before she masked it with a nonchalant shrug. "Well, if it''s any consolation, getting shocked mid-air sounds like an epic way to lose a fight. Not many can say that."

    "Wouldn''t be my first choice of losing battle strategies." Fii ran her hands through her white hair, pulling out a few pieces of gravel she hadn''t been able to dislodge earlier.

    "Well, in your case, it''s not much of a strategy at all."

    Fii poked her tongue out at Tweak and blew a raspberry.

    "I mean, think about it. Someone came at you with some seriously slick moves, and all you had was like, ''I can control gravity... oh wait, maybe not,'' and then splat!" Tweak clapped her hands together, mimicking a collision. Her laugh was a little too lively. "Falling from that height is a real game-over, you know?"

    "You know I''m tough to break." Fii held her hands up in mock defeat. "And you''re a great comfort."

    Tweak rolled her eyes. "Please, at least pretend to care. Who else will bring the rousing speeches after such riveting heroics? You''re lucky to have me. There should be statues made to commemorate this level of friendship."

    "Sure," Fii quipped back. "Your sparkling personality can''t be undervalued."

    "Anyway, tell me more about these high-tech party crashers. You sure they were just Zippers?"

    "I''m not sure of anything," Fii admitted. "That''s why I''m here."

    "And here I thought you loved basking in my radiance."

    The corner of Fii''s mouth twisted into a half-smile. "Not your worst guess."

    Pushing back from her setup, Tweak let her chair spin lazily in place before swiveling around. "You want me to dig?"

    Fii nodded. "If anyone can figure this out, it''s you."

    "Aw, babe, you know I always got your back, but¡ª" she hopped up from her chair and sauntered over to a dingy, old-fashioned coffee machine. Grabbing the pot, she poured the dark brew into a mug that looked like it hadn''t been washed in weeks. Taking a slow sip, Tweak continued, "¡ªit''s been a bit crazy around here lately."

    "Crazier than flying drones tasing someone off a zip-line?"

    Tweak leaned against the table, swirling the coffee in her mug. "Tell me about it. Haven''t had a decent night''s sleep in... who knows?"

    Fii looked at the bank of flickering screens displaying various lines of code and system processes.

    "New gig?" she asked. It would make sense that Tweak was juggling multiple projects, given her skill set and her penchant for never turning down a challenge. Still, her lack of rest was worrying.

    "Not exactly." She pointed towards one of the screens showing a rapid cascade of characters. "Remember that server job a while back?"

    "Which one?"

    "The one you called a dumpster fire." Tweak''s gaze remained fixed on her screen, her cybernetic eye glowing softly in the dim light. "Turns out, whoever''s behind that shit has some serious muscle backing them. Been trying to keep a few steps ahead in this cat-and-mouse game ever since."

    "Wait... They''re still on you?"

    "You know me," she scoffed, a hint of pride in her voice, "too slippery to pin down."

    "Seriously though, what''s going on? Since when do simple jobs go that sideways?"

    Tweak hesitated before answering, a brief flicker of unease crossing her face. "To be honest, I''m not sure. This thing''s got more tentacles than a freakin'' octopus. Thought I''d untangled the last of it, but here they are again."

    "You need to get clear. Lay low for a bit, maybe?" Fii''s expression was clouded with worry.

    She knew Tweak was stubborn, always the first to jump into something and the last to admit any sign of struggle. But Fii also knew that sometimes a step back was necessary for self-preservation. From what she remembered about that job, it was a mess from the start¡ªa far cry from the straightforward corporate data-scraping gig it had promised to be.

    "Ugh, don''t give me that look," Tweak admonished, swatting Fii''s arm. "It''s under control. Probably. Just haven''t seen anyone come at a hack like this before, all flashy and overblown. It''s like they want to prove a point."

    She put her mug down, stretching her arms out in an exaggerated yawn. Her back gave a small pop. "There''s a reason I stick to the tech side of things. Might not be as cool as swinging around on zip lines, but at least it keeps my problems at arm''s length. And by arm length, I mean safely behind multiple firewalls and encrypted servers."

    "I swear you''re going to worry me to an early grave," Fii teased gently. "But... is there anything I can do to help?"

    Tweak pondered the question, her cybernetic eye seemed to whirr slightly as if it was actively part of her thought process.

    "I''ll let you know." She reached back to tie her hair up in a messy bun, the movement exposing a tattoo on the nape of her neck¡ªa small, delicate depiction of a blue dragon winding through clouds. "Maybe swing by tomorrow? Give me time to sort this stuff out a bit."

    Fii nodded. "I can do that. Just... stay safe, okay? No sudden adventures or going dark on me."

    "Who''s the one who fell out of the air?" Tweak threw her a wink. "We''re the worst at taking our own advice."

    "Low blow," Fii retorted with a playful punch on Tweak''s shoulder.

    "Try not to get zapped again. It''d break my heart if my best friend fried her brains out. After all, who else would put up with me?" The jest in her voice was clear, but there was an undercurrent of genuine concern. This was Tweak''s way¡ªhiding her affection beneath a snarky exterior.

    "Now you''re breaking my heart. I feel the love," Fii quipped.

    "What can I say? I''m a regular old softie." She mimicked wiping a tear from her cheek, a twinkle in her eye.

    "Yeah, a big ol'' teddy bear." Fii chuckled, taking one last look at the screen where the code scrolled, wondering what kind of tech behemoth could make Tweak nervous. It had to be some heavy hitters. "Okay, see you tomorrow. Promise me you''ll catch some actual sleep?"

    "Only if you promise not to plummet from the sky like a rock again." Tweak patted her own rear end. "Take care of those assets, babe!"

    "You know it," Fii replied with a smile and a light-hearted salute. "Rest easy, ya crazy data-jockey."

 Chapter 6: Tin Talk

    After the heart-to-heart¡ªor as much of one as you can have with Tweak''s eternal air of indifference¡ªFii bid farewell and stepped out of Tweak''s lair back into the dim alley. Overhead, the usual sprawl of pipes and wires greeted her like a familiar canopy. As she left, the entrance melted back into the graffiti, leaving no trace of its existence.

    Walking down the alleys, Fii was grateful for the late hour, when the sun no longer bore down relentlessly, granting some respite from the relentless heat. Even so, the residual warmth radiating from the concrete was stifling, and the humid air clung to her skin. Every step felt sticky.

    Fii''s thoughts drifted to the Zippers. Though there wasn''t any kind of official association, she considered many of them friends. In their own peculiar way, the Zippers were like a loosely connected family, bonded by the wires they raced across and the risk they all took. Getting hijacked on a run wasn''t completely unheard of¡ªa certain danger came with the job¡ªbut this time had felt different.

    Reflecting on what happened, it wasn¡¯t just the theft that bothered her, but the methodology. The tactical gear. Coordinated movements. The fact that someone went to the trouble of constructing drones for a one-off heist was beyond overkill.

    They even managed to take her out yet didn''t bother to finish the job. A few more zaps like that while she was down and out could have... well, it wasn''t worth thinking about.

    The whole situation felt... off. Fii¡¯s gut instinct rarely steered her wrong. It was often the first to raise a red flag when something didn''t sit right.

    Coming out into a slightly wider alley, she continued along her path back to the Rust Market. She nodded at a couple of familiar faces and kept her distance from a group of junkies huddled around a burning barrel, their eyes glazed over, their voices slurred. Most of them were lost in their own world, too far gone to acknowledge her passing. But she made sure to give them a wide berth anyway.

    Soon enough, the muted buzz of the Rust Market grew louder. She could hear the mingling voices, the sound of goods being shuffled about, the intermittent crackle of old sound systems and the distant rumble of aging trucks moving merchandise.

    As the path curved around a corner, the entire market lay sprawled in front of her, bustling even at this hour. People haggled over prices, stall owners shouted their deals, and the odd fight broke out here and there.

    Fii sidestepped a pickpocket rushing past and pretended not to notice as a burly-looking man in a torn leather vest eyed her with interest.

    "Hey, Super..." he called out, flashing a set of teeth that had seen better days. "Got some extra batteries, if ya know what I mean."

    Smiling diplomatically, Fii walked on, letting the busy rhythm of the market drown out the ensuing jeers as she moved deeper into the heart of the bazaar.

    The towering bulk of a derelict storage tank sat to her left. A beam of sunlight cutting through a break in the structures shone on the dull, corroded surface of the tank, highlighting a deep gash in the metal near the top where an old, peeling sign read ''No Climbing.'' Of course, the sign was a waste of time. Looking closely, she could make out a few kids sitting near the edge, legs dangling over the side, chatting and taking in the view.

    The colors in the sky began to shift, taking on the deeper hues of approaching sunset. Purples and oranges chased away the last traces of blue, reflecting off the twisted metal and glass of the slums'' ramshackle buildings.

    Rao''s shop wasn''t far from here, just a couple more streets. He had the uncanny ability to get his hands on just about any piece of tech imaginable. Maybe he''d heard a thing or two. Or would hear things in the near future.

    <hr>

    Finally, she arrived at a run-down metal shed wedged between two larger buildings. The door was an old sliding roller shutter with a layer of rust on it. While she didn''t immediately see Rao himself, his glowing green token sat in plain view on a makeshift altar nearby¡ªa sign that the shop owner was around and open for business.

    As she lifted the metal shutter, the mechanism groaned, protesting at first, then yielded with a loud creak. She poked her head in. The smell of old, dusty electronics greeted her in that familiar, comforting way they did. The interior was cramped, dimly lit, and filled with an array of scavenged tech, all neatly arranged on shelves. Boxes piled up in the corners, with parts and gadgets spilling out of them.

    Behind a counter at the back of the store, Fii noticed a small television quietly droning. An old VCR was connected to it.

    Fii sighed. That explained what she tripped on when entering. A cord she had barely noticed ran from the outlet and disappeared into the tangled mess of wires behind the ancient TV.

    Her attention shifted to the figure bent over, frantically searching underneath a stack of discarded keyboards. Rao''s thick, salt-and-pepper hair was wild, matching his overall disheveled appearance.

    Rummaging through an old radio, he fished out a burnt-looking fuse. "Aha! I knew this could be salvaged!" His voice held a victorious note as he placed the part carefully on the desk next to him.

    The space around him was an organized chaos of sorts, where every seemingly random pile or messy heap had a purpose in his mind. To anyone else, it might seem like a junkyard, but for him, each piece, no matter how worn or seemingly broken, held potential. Even the ''useless'' parts often found their way into something new, or they could be traded.

    "Rao?" Fii called out.

    Startled by her voice, Rao jerked upright. A hollow thunk resounded as his head bumped into the underside of the counter.

    "Ouch!" he groaned, rubbing his head. He turned toward her, a sheepish grin appearing. "Why if it isn''t my favorite client-slash-goods-distributor extraordinaire-slash-resident-superhero!"

    "Which is a very long name, Rao."

    "I get enthusiastic."

    The countertop was a cluttered array of mechanical innards. Capacitors, transistors, resistors, and diodes, all mingling with circuit boards, connectors, and what seemed to be fragments of LEDs and switches. Among the mess, there were even more esoteric components: vacuum tubes, crystals, and antennas¡ªa kaleidoscope of tech bits that hinted at everything from abandoned inventions to whimsical repair projects.

    It was a chaotic collage, reflecting not just his profession but his personality too.

    Fii idly lifted a chip from the table. The sticker had yellowed, making the inscription illegible. It had two rows of pins, bent in various directions, resembling an insect with broken legs.

    "I really don''t get how you and other tech vendors manage to sell old junk to people here," she confessed, running a finger over a circuit board that was more green than brown, its copper traces corroded with age. She made a face and wiped her hand against her pants.

    "What do you mean?" Rao asked. He adjusted his smudged glasses. "Someone always needs these things, especially in a place like this. Here, functionality is a relative term, a concept, not an absolute. People modify, adapt, make do. Many are still holding onto appliances from three, sometimes five generations ago! Finding compatible replacement parts is no easy feat nowadays."If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    "And yet, business is booming. What''s the secret?" She placed the chip back on the pile and leaned on the counter. "It''s not like everyone can afford the stuff, can they?"

    Rao laughed. "Sure, if you''re only looking at the obvious."

    "Enlighten me then."

    Fii was always in awe of how effortlessly he slipped into a stream of conscious thought. "For one, a lot of folks trade for what they need. Sure, we use tinks and ChitCreds for the most part, but it¡¯s not the only currency. Did you know I once traded a twenty-year-old salvaged coffee machine for five meals? Imagine that. One morning, instead of my usual bitter sludge, I was having a savory bowl of yato soup. It was pure bliss."

    As he continued his monologue, Rao''s attention returned to the little contraption he had been tinkering with. She watched as his slender fingers worked deftly. Even though she couldn''t see exactly what he was doing, the swift, assured movements hinted at a level of dexterity and familiarity that only came from decades of hands-on experience.

    "And let''s not forget the favors game. You know, lending a helping hand, exchanging services, that kind of thing. Oh, and did you know someone traded me a weekly meal for fixing their speakers? I mean, the damage wasn''t major; just a couple of worn-out transistors, but you should''ve seen their faces light up when the bass started thumping again!"

    "Okay, I get it. I kinda just forgot about all these other things." She brushed her hair from her eyes. "I''m so used to... you know. Running errands for tinks or a few spare meals here and there."

    The hustle and flow of trade and barter in the slums often found their way around the lack of conventional currency. Out there, goods and services held tangible value, providing a safety net and a sense of security in the absence of material wealth. There was always a way for people to get by, one way or another.

    Even if a few tricks had to be employed along the way.

    But most importantly, what went around, came around.

    Rao nodded, his fingers continuing their dance of calibration with the precision tool. "Maybe spending too much time doing superhero business is skewing your perspective! You losing that rooftop wisdom you''ve built up over the years. A while longer and you''ll be saying ''please'' and ''thank you,'' like those fancy HighRise folk."

    Fii puffed a lock of white hair out of her face. "Ha. Ha. So funny."

    "Anyway, how are you doing, my dear? I take it this isn''t a casual visit. Not that I''m complaining, of course. If anything, the surprise is quite welcome." He gave her a sincere smile, his voice taking on a fond tone as he fixed her with his kind, piercing gaze.

    Fii scratched the back of her head, feeling a bit embarrassed by the sudden shift in his tone. "Ah, right, that... yeah, I got caught up in some trouble while tagging along with the Zippers the other day. Their run was intercepted mid-zip. Was pretty nasty, so I thought maybe you''d heard some stuff."

    "Hm, Zippers, huh? No surprise there, as hard as they push themselves. Surprised you aren''t bouncing off the walls right now with that story." He raised an eyebrow at her. "Remind me again, please¡ªwho are you?" His lips quirked into a small, amused smile.

    A lopsided grin graced her face. "Really, though. This was... different, let''s say."

    "Then tell me what happened."

    For the next few minutes, Fii recounted the hijacking from her perspective¡ªthe drones, the attacker, the timing, the precision¡ªand then went into the specifics of Mica''s and Luxy''s experiences. The more she narrated, the more grim Rao''s expression became, which was saying a lot considering his usually carefree demeanor.

    "...After I took that fall, my best guess is that Luxy and Mica bailed. Only managed to see Taro briefly after that; he was by himself and things had already settled down, but that''s about it," she finished, leaning back against the countertop. She wasn''t particularly concerned about knocking anything over¡ªnot in this madhouse, at least.

    "Well, if you''re going to mess around, might as well do it in style." Rao sighed. He folded his arms and shook his head, contemplating her words. "Does Tweak have an opinion?"

    "Not yet. I stopped by her place on the way here, but she''s pretty caught up in another thing right now." Fii chewed on her bottom lip. "She did seem interested though."

    "I''m sure she''s buried up to her neck in data or whatever she does. Might take her a bit to pull her head out of the wires." He chuckled lightly. "No harm in trying, at least. You never know with her."

    "Yeah, probably, and true."

    Rao adjusted his glasses, the frames sitting a bit crooked on the bridge of his nose. There were smudges on the lenses, reflecting his penchant for hands-on work. He hummed to himself, a nonsensical ditty she found oddly charming.

    "I''ll keep an ear out for any gossip or chatter related to your story. It sounds like there''s something fishy going on, and we need to make sure everyone stays safe around here." Rao winked, shifting his attention back to the circuitry in front of him. "For now, just take it easy. It''s not every day our superhero falls out of the sky."

    "Or takes a nap mid-air, I guess." She groaned, palms covering her eyes, imagining how ridiculous the spectacle must have been. Fii raised a finger. "And no one else hears about it."

    "But you know, speaking of easy, how are you holding up?" His voice softened. "Been a while since we sat down and had a good heart-to-heart over some hot broth, hasn''t it?"

    "It really has... I''d like to do it soon. It''s been pretty hectic all around, and life hasn''t gotten any simpler or easier. We''re still sorta getting things in order. Still trying to figure out a way to rescue Edith," she admitted, absently drumming her fingers on the counter. The dull thud of her fingertips on the wood underscored her words, punctuating the heavier tone that had crept into their conversation.

    "You''re working too hard." Rao exhaled. "As usual."

    Fii nodded. "Yeah, maybe..."

    "And I know you''re good, kid. But everyone needs to catch a breather once in a while, even the legendary ''Axion.'' So, rest up, hmm?"

    Rao''s gentle voice tugged at her, like a soothing balm for the exhaustion she was carrying. It was a lot easier to face her own struggles in the familiar, musty surroundings of Rao''s shop. Surrounded by the hum of electronics and the gentle clink of tools, Fii allowed herself to relax a bit, her guard dropping a fraction.

    "Oh, almost forgot to ask. How''re things since you''ve hooked up with Quinn?"

    A deep scarlet washed over her face. "Wait, how did you¡ª"

    "Not hard to put two and two together." He smirked. "Quinn works for me sometimes, remember? Doesn''t take much to pry a little bit out of him, you know."

    Fii stared at him, somewhat perplexed, trying to keep her features from betraying the embarrassment welling up inside.

    "So... how''s he treating you?" Rao asked with a faint grin, leaning back and lacing his fingers behind his head. "Did he make you cry yet? I told him that if he ever did, I''d personally¡ª" He emphasized his statement by hammering a fist into an open palm, his smile never faltering.

    Fii knew he wasn''t serious, but her cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red at his words.

    "Y-you guys had that talk about me?" she sputtered, mortified. This was absolutely not the kind of attention she needed in her life.

    "I did a bit more than talk¡ªI basically threatened his balls off. Not that he needs it. You two have been skirting around each other for far too long. Getting you two together was like watching snails mate. Fun fact, snail sex takes anywhere from ten to fifteen hours, depending on their mood."

    He shrugged nonchalantly, that little glint in his eye revealing the joy he was getting from watching her squirm.

    "W-what? Wh-why?" Fii stammered, heat spreading from her face all the way to the tips of her ears. "That''s¡ªthat''s not¡ª"

    "Ahh, don''t be shy now," he teased, enjoying her obvious discomfort. "Quinn''s a good guy, you know? Heart''s in the right place. Bit rough around the edges, but then again, you''re not exactly all sunshine and rainbows yourself, are you?"

    His grin was wide, teeth showing and eyes crinkling in mirth. He had the look of someone who had clearly won the exchange, and he knew it. "And what''s more¡ªhe''s nuts about you. I''ve got no doubt he''ll treat you well. But just so we''re clear, if he does something stupid and gets a smack upside the head, it won''t be from you."

    Fii buried her face in her hands. "Please stop. It''s still... it''s all a bit new, and we''re still trying to figure this whole thing out..." Her words were muffled, but the embarrassment in her voice was unmistakable.

    "Oh?" He tilted his head. "Tell me more. I''m all ears."

    "No, no... let''s talk about anything else. Work stuff. Market stuff. How are the repairs on your ticker going¡ª"

    Rao couldn''t contain himself any longer and burst out laughing. "Sorry, sorry. Just messing with you. You should see your face right now, like a ripened tomato." His chuckle was a deep, throaty rumble, echoing in the cluttered space.

    "S-screw you, old man!" Fii shot back, exasperated, but a smile tugged at her lips.

 Chapter 7: Wire Trap

    The next day, Fii returned to Tweak''s hideout. As she pushed her way through the concealed entrance, her senses were immediately assaulted by the heavy odor of burnt wires and overheated plastic, a far cry from the typical mustiness of the place. This wasn''t a good sign. Tweak usually kept a relatively orderly chaos in her personal sanctuary¡ªthe smell hinted at things getting out of hand.

    Tweak was crouching under her primary console, surrounded by a tangled mass of cables and tools. Her sleeves were rolled up, displaying the vibrant hues of her tattoos that covered her arms in a living mural. When she heard Fii enter, her face peeked out from beneath the desk, strands of dark red hair escaping from her loose bun.

    A radiant smile of welcome briefly appeared, but it was quickly clouded by something that seemed a lot like concern¡ªor even fear. For a girl as audacious as Tweak, any sign of fear meant trouble with a capital ''T.''

    Fii felt a tinge of worry. "Bad time?"

    "No, it''s never a bad time for you, babe." Tweak brushed her hair back, exhaling a sigh laced with a blend of amusement and frustration. "Was chasing down a ghost in the system when the damn thing decided to nuke one of my hard drives. Smoke and sparks galore. Been trying to resurrect it, but the tech gods aren''t on my side today, it seems."

    Fii stepped closer, taking in the disarray around them. Wires and components were scattered haphazardly, evidence of a frantic, focused effort. In the midst of it all, Tweak appeared more harried than usual. Her hands were slightly smudged from her attempts to recover whatever was lost.

    "So," Fii began, approaching her. "This is about yesterday''s thing?"

    "Partially," Tweak replied with a weary sigh. "Gimme a minute. I''ll update you." She waved her hand dismissively at the wires and connectors near her. "Just need to disconnect this pile of junk."

    While waiting, Fii did her best to tidy up some of the mess. Cables were coiled and set aside neatly, tools were collected, and a few empty energy drink cans found their way into the overflowing trash bin.

    When Tweak emerged fully from beneath her table, she was carrying a small black box, its exterior scorched and damaged. Fii, trying to be as helpful as possible, took it from her. It weighed more than she expected, with an ominous heat still emanating from within. An odor of melted electronics wafted out.

    "Could you put that on the spare desk?" Tweak asked, nodding towards a small desk at the back of the room, buried beneath piles of electronic junk. "I need to make space."

    Fii carefully carried the burned-out drive over. The area was littered with a medley of tools and dismantled tech that spoke volumes about the frantic hours Tweak must have spent trying to recover whatever precious data had been lost. Clearing a space among the clutter, she set down the charred remains, dusting off her hands afterward.

    As she turned, her gaze fell upon Tweak, who was still engrossed in her work. The hacker''s back was turned to her, her fingers moving quickly across the keyboard. Even from where she stood, Fii could discern the tension in Tweak''s movements, the speed that was a little too frantic to be her usual. Something had unnerved her deeply, but Fii knew better than to pry.

    Finally, the clatter of keys subsided. Tweak turned to face her, a tight smile on her lips that didn''t quite reach her eyes.

    "Sorry, I''d usually say something witty," Tweak began, "but my charm reserves are running a bit low at the moment." She moved to grab a bottle of water from a mini fridge tucked away in the corner and chugged half of it in one go before wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. "Let''s just say these last few hours have been no picnic."

    Fii eyed Tweak, observing the barely hidden exhaustion in the slope of her shoulders and the furrow of her brow. Dark smudges sat under her eyes, stark against her pale skin. She had likely pushed herself long past the point of comfort. The urge to berate her for not taking better care of herself rose in Fii''s throat, but she swallowed it back.

    "Sounds like you''ve got a lot on your plate with whatever that mess is," Fii replied. She crossed the room to perch on the edge of Tweak''s cluttered desk. "Talk to me, Tweak. What''s going on?"

    With a sigh, Tweak slumped back into her chair, running her hands through her dark red hair as if trying to brush away the stress. "That server job I mentioned before? Turns out it was a trap, a honeypot to get someone with my skill set. And... they did." The last words were barely audible. "Fell right into it."

    "They baited you?" Fii''s shock was apparent. She knew Tweak was too smart to be baited, which made the entire situation seem all the more absurd.

    "Yeah. Bastards used tech we would typically use as bait to lure some lower-tier Wirehead. Except... they weren''t after a low-tier, or even mid, for that matter. They wanted someone like me."

    Tweak drummed her fingers on the desk, a nervous tic that betrayed her anxiety. She continued, "They''ve been playing a game of virtual tag with me ever since, escalating every time I think I''ve ditched them. When you came by yesterday, it was more of the same¡ªtrying to sneak through my firewalls, feigning attacks, probing for weaknesses."

    She gestured towards the damaged drive. "That''s what that mess is all about. They slipped something nasty in and fried one of my babies while I was preoccupied elsewhere."

    "Someone who can keep pace with you?" Fii''s brow arched in disbelief. "They''d have to be a serious Wirehead¡ªmaybe even Corp-level."

    Tweak smirked humorlessly. "Thanks for the implied compliment. But yeah, that''s the rub. This is way above average. I don''t think they''re corporate, though. More like a well-funded and persistent annoyance."

    "So you have an idea who''s behind this?"

    Tweak rubbed her face with both hands, her voice muffled through her palms. "A gang calling themselves Circuit Breakers. Some of their trademarks in the code have popped up. Tech-centric, have a penchant for ruining a girl''s day, and, unfortunately, are pretty good at their job."

    "Circuit Breakers?" Fii tried to remember if she had come across that name before. Tweak often dealt with all sorts of tech-savvy groups. But no, that was a new one. "New rivals?"

    "That''d be a fun spin, wouldn''t it? Nah." Tweak gave a wry chuckle. "They''ve been around. Just never been this..." She trailed off, searching for the right words.

    "Insistent?"

    "Pestilent," Tweak corrected, an edge to her voice. "My best bet? They''re either after something I have¡ªwhich, honestly, could be anything, given the data trove I''m sitting on¡ªor they''re trying to recruit me. Forcefully."

    Fii paused. "Neither of those is great, Tweak."

    "Oh, absolutely not. It''s just peachy." Sarcasm dripped from her tone. She slouched back in her chair, eyes fluttering briefly closed. "But don''t worry your pretty little head. The only thing they''re recruiting is trouble."Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

    "Want me to go over there and deal with them?" Fii offered. She gestured a fist punching. "Ya know, rough them up or something?"

    Tweak''s expression was a blend of surprise and amusement. "Are you serious? What, you gonna go all superhero and start smashing down doors? Aren''t you supposed to be the poster girl for slum justice? Wasn''t expecting that kinda attitude from you."

    "It''s not like that." Fii ran a hand through her hair. "But... I don''t like the idea of someone harassing you. And you look¡ªwell, stressed. It''s not often I see you like this, ya know?"

    "The Great and Powerful Tweak, conquered by a few lines of malicious code?" Her laughter had a biting quality to it. "Guess my reputation can eat it. But seriously, I think it''s pretty sweet that you''re so ready to pound faces for me. Kinda touching, really. Still, try not to burn those white capes just yet, huh?"

    A tense silence stretched out, Fii mulling over their predicament. Her mind wandered back to the recent attack she had endured on The Wires.

    "Tweak..." Fii hesitated. "The other night, the whole... zip-line incident... think it could be related?"

    For a moment, Tweak didn''t respond, but the flicker in her cybernetic eye gave her thoughts away.

    She leaned back, letting out a soft whistle. "Coincidence can be a real bi... witch. Hard to say. Then again, not all that hard. Circuit Breakers have access to some fancy tech. And, the way you described that little ambush¡ªthe tech involved¡ªwell, doesn''t sound too far off from their game. Ambushes aren''t typically their thing, but who knows?"

    "I''m grasping at straws here," Fii admitted, her tone lighter despite the lingering concern in her eyes. "You know me. I always see connections where there aren''t any."

    Tweak chuckled lightly, lifting a hand in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. Let''s see what I can dig up on those chumps. At least it gives us somewhere to start."

    "I thought your hard drive was burned?" Fii pointed out.

    "Please." Tweak flashed a confident grin. "I''ve got more where that came from. Redundancy is my middle name. Now, shush and let the genius work." Tweak swiveled around to face the monitors again, her fingers already flying across the keyboard with renewed energy.

    Fii, having resigned herself to the role of observer for now, leaned against the wall, watching as streams of code reflected in Tweak''s eyes.

    "Tweak?" she murmured, as the hacker continued her rapid-fire typing. "Promise me something?"

    "What''s that?" Tweak replied without turning around, her focus not wavering from her screen.

    "Be careful. I don''t want you getting into something you can''t get out of. This isn''t our usual game."

    Tweak scoffed, a touch of her typical humor lacing her response. "You don''t get to where I am by not taking risks. But for you, fine, I promise. Happy?"

    "Very. If you can''t out-think a drive-frying virus, who can?"

    "Oh! This is interesting." Tweak''s eyebrows shot up in a sudden display of interest.

    Fii leaned forward, squinting at the display. "What''d you find?"

    "Some fresh faces popped up a few days before the ambush." She pointed at a list on the monitor. "They didn''t mingle much with other Zippers, but they''re new enough to raise an eyebrow."

    "Few days before, huh? Can''t be a coincidence," Fii agreed, scratching her cheek.

    "Probably not, no." Tweak pulled up their profiles, revealing a group of rough-looking individuals, all appearing to be in their late teens or early twenties, dressed in outfits that seemed pieced together from bits of what you''d see on typical Wireheads. "See their gear? Totally fits what you saw."

    "Yup, I remember that tech-garbage aesthetic," Fii muttered, narrowing her eyes at the picture. "Where''d they come from?"

    "That''s the thing..." Tweak leaned in, her face illuminated by the flickering monitors. "Best I can tell, they''re not from anywhere. I got access to the list of vetted Zippers and these guys, they''re not on it."

    "That doesn''t make sense," Fii stated, puzzled. "You gotta be vetted to work as a Zipper, right?"

    "Yeah, it''s not an easy process either." Tweak cracked her neck and shifted in her chair. "Their rep has to be rock solid to even get in line."

    "Maybe they went off the radar after getting blacklisted?" Fii wondered out loud.

    "Doubtful. That would mean they already blew their shot, and the Zipper code is pretty strict. One strike and you''re out, no second chances." Tweak made a throat-cutting gesture. "Doesn''t matter how slick their tech is if no one wants to deal with them. Being reliable is half the deal, and that''s not something you can build up overnight."

    Fii mulled that over. "Hmm, so then how''d they know about the parts shipment? They can''t be completely detached if they got that intel."

    Tweak tapped the side of her nose. "Spot on. It''s not the type of info that flows freely. These guys have connections. What we need to find out is where those connections run."

    "And by we, you definitely mean you."

    Tweak cackled, letting herself sink further back in her chair. "Well, that''s why you keep me around, right? Can''t resist my magnetic charm."

    "By that logic, I also keep you around for your poor jokes. Such a martyr."

    "But you love me for it. I''m amazing. Just say it." Tweak gave a little wave of her hand. "Go on. Feed my ego. It''s good karma or something."

    "Yes, yes, your lordship, your digital voodoo is matchless, and so on," Fii retorted dryly. "So... any clue how those upstarts are pulling this off? Do you think they''re linked to those Circuit Breakers you mentioned?"

    "Could be. Seems a bit... hands-on for their style, but who knows? Maybe they''re branching out. Or, worst case, this could be some rogue offshoot." Tweak exhaled a long sigh. "You never know in these parts. It''s a sad, wild world out here."

    Fii leaned in again. "When did these mystery Zippers show up?"

    "They registered two days before the ambush. Real tight window to set up that kind of heist." Tweak frowned, lost in thought. "They either got someone on the inside or somehow swindled one of the delivery crew to sell the info."

    "Hmm, where are they usually seen? Do they hang out anywhere?" Fii''s curiosity was piqued.

    "I don''t know that either." Tweak adjusted her seated position, sitting cross-legged now. "But... I''ve got an idea."

    With a dramatic flourish, she began typing away rapidly. "Let me see if I can, shall we say, pluck their strings a bit." A notification ping sounded. "A-ha! Bingo! Let the magic happen."

    "What did you do, Tweak?"

    "Oh, the usual. Created a dummy profile on the Zipper net, hinted at a sweet deal going down, dropped a juicy but fake manifest for a big tech shipment, and hey, I''m a generous soul, so I even included a faked route map. You''re welcome."

    The ease and speed with which she outlined her deceptive setup gave Fii pause. "Damn, Tweak, that was quick."

    "It''s all pre-coded, babe," she replied, giving Fii a cheeky wink. "Just had to personalize it a little to catch their interest. Now, let''s sit back and see who bites."

    "That''s... honestly pretty genius."

    Tweak responded with a smug grin. "Aww, you''re just noticing?"

    Fii punched her lightly on the arm. "Ego inflating to burst."

    "Now, now, no need to resort to violence," Tweak said, laughing. "Just sit tight. They''ll likely start nosing around."

    Moments later, a blip appeared on the monitor. Tweak''s smile was one of pure satisfaction. "I knew they wouldn''t resist. Hook, line, and sinker. Nothing like some fresh meat, eager to get their teeth into anything."

    "Okay, they''re snooping around. So what?" Fii wasn''t getting it yet.

    "Patience, babe," Tweak said with a chuckle. "Now that the trap''s set, all we need to do is wait for them to crawl out of their hole. Once they engage, that''s when you come in. Think of yourself as my loyal knight." She nudged Fii''s side. "Go get ''em, champ."

    Fii sighed. "It''s never straightforward with you."

    Tweak shrugged playfully. "Nothing worthwhile ever is. Now, go on your grand adventure while I handle the digital drudgery."

    "Yeah. This time, I won''t be blindsided by those drones and get zapped out of the sky, that''s for sure." Fii straightened up, rolling her shoulders as if preparing for a fight. "Those punks are going down."

 Chapter 8: Mox

    Fii squatted behind a large industrial vent on top of one of the sector''s derelict factories, hoping the shadows and her dark clothes would be enough to keep her hidden. At times like this, she missed the helmet she used to wear along with her Axion suit. It had night vision, among many other benefits, and would have made this task less precarious.

    The usual dingy smog of the slums served as an extra veil to shroud her presence, but still, if someone happened to glance her way and knew what to look for, they might spot her hiding there. If she still had her helmet, she could have hidden further back where nobody would have been able to spot her while still being able to monitor the platform.

    But that was the past, and now she had no helmet and no fancy night vision. All she had to rely on were her regular eyes and ears. Still, she had a very good vantage point.

    Below her was an old rusted platform that served as the landing place for the various deliveries that came through the area. Right now, the platform was empty except for a few small crates and two Zippers standing guard, chatting with each other.

    Her mind kept drifting back to what had happened in that ambush, how she had been paralyzed by those drones and dropped like a fly. She wouldn''t let that happen again. Not tonight.

    The decoy shipment appeared moments later, escorted by two Zippers that she didn''t recognize. The carriers began to offload the cargo onto the platform, setting down nondescript boxes marked with ominous " Handle with Care" and " Fragile" stickers.

    As she continued her vigil, something suddenly shifted in the corner of her eye¡ªa glint of metal in the darkness, a subtle movement that betrayed the presence of others approaching. The faint hum of drones soon followed, growing louder with each passing second.

    Just in time.

    Like clockwork, the invading group revealed themselves. In a poorly choreographed move, they descended from all sides, some clanking down noisily from the neighboring buildings, while others emerged from the shadows. A handful rode the ziplines above, coasting down to land on the platform in unison, their grapple lines snapping onto the railings.

    They weren''t subtle, but then again, their objective wasn''t stealth. It was intimidation.

    Now, now, now!

    Fii vaulted over the ledge of the roof and dove towards the platform below.

    As the drones moved in¡ªtheir bright beams sliced through the smoky air, forming a spotlight on the platform¡ªshe reached with her power and twisted gravity around them.

    The drones spiraled out of control, crashing into the nearby buildings with sparks and screeching metal. Several of them tumbled and fell, clanking and bouncing off the platform''s railing to the depths below.

    That caused the new arrivals to come to a halt, looking around in confusion. An opening she wasn''t going to waste.

    She flew above them and angled her hands down at the intruders below. With a flex of her wrist, she connected to each of them and inverted gravity.

    They began to float, flailing in the air. A few scrambled to hold onto whatever they could find to avoid being lifted into the sky. Others, those with quicker reflexes, attached their grappling hooks to the platform and pulled themselves back down.

    "Hello, boys!" Fii called out, floating high in the air. "Remember me? That''s right. It''s your favorite pain in the ass."

    "Shit!" one of the invaders cursed. "It''s her!"

    Fii moved her hands in a twisting motion, as though she was grasping each of them in her fist. With that, she flung the floating attackers away.

    Some collided with crates or railings. A few dangled precariously from their tethers, struggling to pull themselves back to safety, while others were ripped away from their handholds and sent crashing to the platform in a jumble of limbs and shouts, sprawling inelegantly across the worn metal surface.

    Even in the heat of the moment, she took care to make sure they wouldn''t fall off the platform.

    Their weapons, on the other hand, weren''t so lucky. With a swift extension of her hand and a quick gesture, she expelled every weapon in sight, hurling them far off the platform.

    As she floated down to the platform, she levitated the downed assailants towards her. They struggled, but her control was undeniable.

    Now this went much better than before. This was how it was supposed to go down.

    She addressed the bewildered Zipper guards. "You guys all right?"

    They nodded.

    "Good, I''ll take it from here. Why don''t you load up the shipment and head out. I''ll make sure these losers learn their lesson." As they hastily retreated, she turned her attention to the would-be thieves, who were still floating in the air around her.

    "Alright, now listen up," she began. "This job? It''s a bust. Kaput. Whatever you''re up to, whatever your endgame is, consider it toast. Me? I''m the toaster. And you''re the bread."

    She felt mighty proud of that metaphor. Granted not everyone had a toaster or even knew what it was. But bread? Everyone knew bread!

    She got some perplexed looks, so she continued, "What I''m saying is¡ªjust because you''re all brighter than a busted bulb doesn''t mean you can keep trying to poach runs from people who need them. You''ve broken one of our rules. Nobody steals from Zippers on the job. Period."

    One of the attackers, dangling from his feet, dared to speak. "You''re not gonna kill us, are you?"

    "Kill you? Oh, no, no, no." She floated closer and hovered around them in circles. "Not for this, at least."

    She paused, locking eyes with them. "I will, however, give you a proper thrashing. And then you''re gonna tell me where your dive is, and who''s calling the shots. Those who cooperate might even walk away from this. Maybe. Those who don''t... might find themselves plummeting from very high places. Sound good?"

    "Can''t we just, like, surrender?" one of them asked.

    "I mean, sure you can," she responded nonchalantly, continuing to hover around them. "But that won''t get you off the hook. Either you''re gonna give up what I want, or I''m gonna go full vengeance mode. Trust me, the first option is waaaaay better for everyone involved."

    "She''s lying!" one of the assailants finally cried out. "You turn on him and you''re dead. We all are."

    She heard a name being whispered amongst them¡ªMox.

    "Mox, huh? That your boss?" Her gaze swept over the terrified faces. "Who here can take me to Mox?"

    "I¡ªI can." One of the captured men finally spoke up, his voice trembling. "I''ll show you where he is."

    "Great." She cracked her knuckles, letting a menacing smile play on her lips. "The rest of you? Be prepared for a long, long night."

    <hr>

    Floating in the air, Fii kept the intruders tightly bound with her power. The one who promised to lead her to Mox was spared the more extreme treatment and simply forced to follow closely as the group began navigating a maze of old factories and broken-down buildings.

    Fii took her time, maintaining a leisurely pace as she carried her captives in tow. The threat of immediate harm was more a tool of persuasion than an actual promise; however, she ensured that her grip was uncomfortably snug, a silent reminder of who held the reins.

    The sector of the slums they were traversing was one of the most deprived in the entire city, with ramshackle structures and rickety makeshift bridges stretching over the narrow alleys below. Some buildings seemed to lean precariously into each other, forming haphazard arches that threatened to collapse at any moment.

    Every so often, as they passed by windows or balconies, curious faces peered out, observing the bizarre procession in awe. This was probably the first time someone had been casually strolling through the air, pulling along a parade of defeated ruffians.

    The sight was definitely noteworthy and likely to be the talk of the town¡ªor slum¡ªby the next day.

    Fii basked in the attention, even acknowledging some of the onlookers with a nonchalant wave, though her focus remained on the captives.

    Soon, they arrived at their destination: an unremarkable, rundown building that stood out only by virtue of its utter ordinariness. A gentle hum from an antiquated HVAC unit atop the roof lent the structure a semblance of life amid the stillness.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!

    "All right." Fii released the guide from her power. "Lead the way. Any tricks or sudden moves, and I''ll use you as a battering ram, got it?"

    "Y-yeah, I get it," the guide stammered, sweat beading his forehead.

    They entered, with Fii continuing to hold the ruffians in her grasp.

    The interior of the building was dimly lit and exuded a pervasive musty odor. Old machinery parts lay strewn about the open space, making the whole place look like a disorganized warehouse. A couple of half-assembled drone models sat in a corner, their innards exposed and wires sticking out. The dust-laden air tickled at Fii''s nose, and she had to resist the urge to sneeze.

    "Where is everyone?" she asked. "Bit of a ghost town, don''t you think?"

    "It''s usually livelier," the guide replied, glancing around. "M-maybe they''re all out on another heist right now." He paused, swallowing hard. "Usually, we''ve got a crew hanging around and someone tinkering with the tech."

    "Then where''s Mox?" she probed, her tone hardening slightly. "Thought you said this was his HQ."

    "Ah, well, he''s... not exactly the sociable type." He shifted uneasily on his feet. "Let''s try his ''office''¡ªit''s just ahead."

    With the captives in tow, Fii continued to follow her guide towards a large sliding door at the other end of the room. Upon reaching it, her guide pressed a button, causing the door to grind open noisily.

    On the other side was a surprisingly spacious and well-lit hall filled with rows of old server racks on either side. The air was much cooler here, thanks to the air conditioners humming away atop the racks. An occasional beep and the flicker of LEDs signaled they were at least partially operational. Whoever maintained these relics had done an impressive job.

    The guide gestured to a doorway at the far end, flanked by two inactive, readied auto-turrets and a set of security cameras. "Mox is probably in there. Or his guards will be, at least."

    "All right, you''re off the hook." With that, Fii released him, watching as he bolted from the scene.

    Alone once more, but with a string of captives floating in her wake, Fii approached the turreted door. The security cameras tracked her movements, but the turrets remained inert. After a brief moment, there was a click and the door hissed open. She stepped inside.

    Beyond the door lay a smaller room, only about half the size of the hall behind her. A long desk occupied the back, adorned with various bits of tech scattered on top and a triad of monitors that provided the primary illumination.

    Sitting in front of the desk was a lone man, illuminated by the glow of the screens. His back was turned to her, his focus seemingly on a terminal. As she approached, he slowly swiveled his chair to face her, revealing an overweight man in his forties with a ratty beard and eyes that darted between her and the captives that floated behind her in a tight ball.

    He sported a faded yellow t-shirt and a pair of baggy shorts, and his feet were bare. His girth added to the impression of him being more a shut-in than a gang leader.

    Fii did a double-take.

    Maybe she was a bit biased because of her experiences in the slums, but she had expected Mox to look... well, a lot more intimidating. Instead, he reminded her of someone''s neglected uncle who had a penchant for hacking into things he shouldn''t.

    Was this guy really their boss?

    "Um, are you Mox?" she asked, baffled.

    The man tilted his head, rubbing a hand across his double chin.

    "Hi," he finally replied. "In the flesh, as it were."

    "Er, well, this is unexpected. Your goons had me thinking you were... different," she admitted.

    Mox raised an eyebrow. "Had you picturing a hardened, cyber-enhanced thug, did they?"

    Her silence was answer enough.

    Mox chuckled, his belly shaking as he did. "People see what I look like and assume I''m a joke."

    "And are you? A joke, that is."

    His laughter subsided, and Mox leaned back in his chair, scrutinizing her. "Do I look like one? But appearances aside, you, slumshine, have been quite the buzzkill, playing superhero down in my little domain. Don''t you think that''s a bit... inconvenient for me?"

    Fii nodded at the huddled mass of would-be hijackers behind her. "They your crew?"

    "Yeah. Were doing good work. Then you started being a problem." Mox gestured for her to come closer. "Honestly, I don''t get you. You''ve been on every turf, all over the place, showing up and... What exactly do you get out of it?"

    With a swift motion of her hand, Fii flung the huddle of captives into a corner of the room where they ended up pressed against the wall. The sound of their impact filled the room with an uncomfortable thud.

    "Just trying to do some good around here," Fii finally said. "Trying to keep the slums a place where we don''t prey on our own. You and your goons broke the code when you started ambushing Zipper runs."

    "So what, now you''re going to make an example of them? Of me?" Mox huffed, pointing towards her with a half-eaten synthie bar. "What do you think will come of that?"

    "Well, they don''t do much more bullying, for a start."

    He sighed. "Slumshine, how do you think these boys put food on their tables? Why are they in a gang? Why are they risking their hides on those jobs?"

    "Plenty of folks work hard and play fair to get by," she replied.

    "Don''t lecture me, kid," Mox snapped back, his voice sharp. "These boys have mouths to feed, families to take care of. Some are just dumb, and this is all they know. I''ve given them direction, structure. A chance to make their mark without taking each other out."

    "And to get that, they make trouble for the whole neighborhood?"

    "Don''t think I''m some bleeding heart." Mox drummed his fingers on the desk, a smug air about him. "This operation, it makes me money. Keeps me fed, warm. I got an arrangement with a bigger fish. They use my boys as muscle, I get a cut."

    He took another bite of his bar. "You mess with that, and someone with more of a killer instinct will come around. Trust me, you''re better off having me as the devil you know than the one you don''t."

    Fii folded her arms. "That a threat?"

    "Nah, just the truth." Mox shrugged, finishing off his snack. "There''s always someone nastier around the corner. The Circuit Breakers were on the verge of taking me out before I negotiated to be their proxy. And when I say ''taking out,'' I don''t mean a polite relocation."

    She glanced back at the gangsters still pressed against the wall and then turned to Mox. "These chumps are part of the Circuit Breakers, too?"

    "No," Mox replied sharply. "My own crew. Locals." He emphasized this last word. "The Circuit Breakers are all about the tech¡ªthe gear, the hacking. They''re too posh to roll around in the dirt with us. Don''t want their shiny toys to get scuffed."

    "And those drones that zapped me the other day? That was their work, not yours?" she probed, stepping closer to the desk.

    "Oh, those beauties? Custom-built and rigged. If they were mine, I wouldn''t be scrapping together hand-me-downs or second-hand market leftovers. I''d have a proper army of them." Mox nodded, his confidence resurfacing. "Bet you anything they were designed to hunt someone like you¡ªsome poor slum-rat with powers, something to knock you out of the sky."

    A pause hung between them. "Doesn''t change that your goons were playing ambush. Whatever deal you had going, I''m not a fan of it. Those parts they were stealing? They were supposed to get to someone who could really make a difference. Instead, they get snatched up to feed your fat gut?"

    "Aww, aren''t you noble?" he mocked. "Well, I''ve got news for you. Your idea of ''good'' isn''t profitable. So, why not put those powers to a better use?"

    "Look, you''re not the first gang boss to try recruiting me, okay? I''ve heard the same spiel from all of them. Join us, be part of the family, make some ChitCreds, blah blah blah." She folded her arms over her chest. "And frankly? It''s getting old."

    "Are you even interested in hearing me out?"

    "Nope." Fii stepped closer. "Here''s how this is gonna play out. Your little operation is done. No more poaching shipments. No more threatening Zipper crews. If you try anything like that again, I''ll know. And I''ll come back. You don''t want me to come back."

    "You''re really that confident, huh? Sure you want to waltz in here and start making demands?" His chubby hand moved to caress a large red button embedded in the armrest of his chair. "This could get messy."

    Without missing a beat, Fii levitated him off his chair and flipped him upside down in the air. Mox let out a yelp of surprise as his belly jiggled with the sudden maneuver.

    Fii''s voice was hard and steady. "Red buttons are for losers who can''t back up their threats. You''d better have more than that to throw at me."

    "Okay, okay, point taken." His voice quavered a bit from being upside down. "No need to get all twisted out of shape. I see your point. You can put me down now."

    She obliged, but her eyes didn''t leave him for a second. But just for good measure, she also crushed his chair under his weight to ensure he wasn''t going to try anything funny. As Mox groaned and struggled to his feet, she kept an eye on the mass of henchmen still squished together in the corner. None of them looked eager to make a move against her.

    "Now, I''ll say this again. Here''s your options, tubster." Fii loomed over him, her hand resting on her hip as she pointed a finger at him. "You''re gonna play nice, or I''m gonna come back and make your life a whole lot worse. Got it?"

    Mox sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Fine, fine. You win. We''ll back off. Happy now?"

    She gestured to the tangle of men in the corner. "That goes for all of you. Unless you want another session of face-meets-wall. Got it?"

    There was a chorus of subdued "yeses" and "got its," mixed with a few grumbles of "damn Super" and "not fair."

    Fii turned back to Mox, her hand once again finding her hip. "One last question. Those drones you have? That tech''s too good to be yours. You dealing with someone?"

    Mox shifted his weight, avoiding her eyes. "Well, uh, yeah, I''ve got a few connections. Some parts came from this gang called Circuit Breakers. Had to borrow from them for a bit to get our operation rolling."

    "Borrow?"

    He rubbed his hands nervously. "Okay, okay. So maybe there was some selling of services to pay them back, but hey, we''re businessmen here. We understand the value of a deal, right?"

    "What were you selling?" she asked.

    "Info," he admitted. "It''s like, ''you scratch my back, I get your data,'' that kind of thing."

    "Is that how your posse knew about that tech shipment? Insider info?"

    He coughed awkwardly. "Maybe?"

    Fii approached him, her stance unwavering. "Here''s what''s gonna happen. You''re going to pass along a message to those Circuit Breakers. Tell ''em to back the hell off. If they don''t, I''ll find them, and I''ll have a very similar, very unpleasant discussion with them."

    "Look, no need for the tough talk. If I relay your message, I don''t think they''ll like it," Mox said, fidgeting. "They''re not the type to appreciate getting muscled, you know?"

    "I''m not here to win any popularity contests," she retorted. "Make sure they understand, I''m not giving them a choice in this."

    With that, Fii turned to leave, but not before reaching out with her power and dismantling several of the nearby computer towers.

    "Hey, easy, easy! You''re trashing my livelihood here!"

    With a dismissive wave, she shrugged and made her way back through the building. "Send the bill to the Circuit Breakers. Consider it a tax for being a pain. If you keep your nose clean, maybe we''ll cross paths for a drink or something. But I doubt it."

 Chapter 9: This Pudding of Mine

    For Fii, sleep was a battleground of sorts, and last night was a no-holds-barred skirmish. As the hazy light of morning filtered into her little makeshift home, it seemed like sleep had emerged the victor, leaving her with the spoils of fatigue. The rhythmic dripping of last night''s rain from her leaky roof was an ever-present background chorus, counting the seconds she had wasted in her bed.

    Ugh. Too early. Way too early.

    Sprawled out on her makeshift bed of worn-down pillows and ragged blankets, Fii stared blearily at the corroded steel roof. A single bead of water traversed its path from her leaky ceiling.

    After all these nights here, you''d think she would have fixed that by now.

    Another water droplet began to form; lazily, almost carefree, and with a heavy sigh, Fii rolled to her side, unconsciously groping around for her blanket to pull it over her head.

    She grumbled when her fingers met nothing but air. Why wasn''t the blanket right next to her? Oh, right. It had wandered off thanks to her gravitational barrier.

    After a brief mental tug-of-war, the desire to laze around until noon triumphed over her better judgment. With a flick of her wrist, the floating blanket folded itself over her.

    Ah, the simple pleasure of being wrapped in warm coziness after waking up on a chilly morning...

    And so, the battle began. On one side was her cozy haven, beckoning her into the world of sweet slumber. On the other side, were her responsibilities. Her big toe stirred from under the covers, seemingly deliberating between joining her in dreamland and urging her to face the day.

    Traitor. Why was it even moving at all? Go back to sleep!

    Despite her reluctance, her mind started its wake-up routine, attempting to peel back the layers of sleep-induced haze. The gears in her head cranked¡ªslowly at first, then faster until her thoughts whirled. No surprise there. With everything going on, tranquility of mind wasn''t exactly her forte lately.

    Everything was just... a lot. From the trivial inconveniences, like leaky roofs and finicky faucets, to the more pressing issues, such as gang violence and whatnot, it all seemed to be constantly demanding her attention. This wasn''t counting her ever-growing list of Superhero-adjacent responsibilities.

    Life''s kind of a jerk sometimes.

    Before she could make any further attempt to escape Morpheus''s clutches and kick-start her day, an involuntary noise erupted from her throat: A big yawn. She couldn''t stop that huge maw from opening wide, and her body took the chance to stretch, eliciting several audible pops from her joints. There was something strangely satisfying about it, like a giant reset button for her body.

    Whatever. Time to get up.

    Sitting up in her improvised bed¡ªa well-worn mattress from the fifth-hand store tucked snugly into a forgotten corner of an abandoned shanty house¡ªshe rubbed the drowsiness from her eyes. In the cramped space, her ''kitchen'' of sorts was merely a stovetop with a single burner alongside an icebox¡ªa less-than-reliable contraption that was probably older than the shanty itself.

    Turning on a touch-to-heat kettle with her finger, she waited as the water inside gradually warmed. Too bad she couldn''t use her gravity powers on it. Messing with something that generates heat via gravity was a horrible idea. While she wasn''t sure why, it just gave her a weird feeling that something could go very badly wrong.

    Half-asleep in her reverie, the bubbling sound from the kettle pulled her back to the present. Pouring herself a cup of boiled water, she dipped in a synth-tea bag¡ªa cost-effective luxury of artificial floral notes¡ªand inhaled the slightly off-putting fragrance. It wasn''t real tea, but with just a hint of honey and a squeeze of lemon, it was almost... good. Almost.

    Alright, morning ritual engaged.

    Synthetic tea in hand, she grabbed a meager selection of ingredients from her tiny icebox, wobbling slightly as she straightened her posture.

    An attempt at cooking breakfast began, mostly relying on a mishmash of edible vegetation she had collected earlier. From dandelion greens, wild carrots, and a handful of mulberries to some radishes, onions, and garlic scapes, Fii sprinkled in whatever was at hand.

    Over the years, her culinary skills had evolved¡ªor devolved, if you ask Quinn¡ªinto an art form of its own. Not caring about the details or planning ahead, she tossed everything into her pan and hoped for the best.

    It was her way of sticking it to the system. Why waste time following recipes or measuring things out precisely? A splash of this, a handful of that, leftover pudding¡ªwhat could go wrong?

    <hr>

    "Are you okay?" Quinn asked, eyeing her uneasily as she turned down his offer for the third time. "You never pass up on the opportunity to eat here. Last week, you almost jumped over the counter for some leftovers."

    Fii''s eyes shifted away, unable to look into his baffled expression without feeling her stomach lurch at the mere idea of consuming anything right now. If only her stomach would settle down, everything would be just fine. Her hands rubbed her sides, hoping the gentle massage would placate the turmoil brewing inside her.

    "Fii, come on, what''s wrong?" The concern in his voice cut through the persistent nausea that had been her constant companion since morning.

    If she wasn''t a metahuman, would she have died from food poisoning?

    "Well, I tried this new recipe," Fii admitted after a moment of silence. "And... well, it tasted weird, so I didn''t eat any more of it. But it still didn''t sit right." As soon as she finished, a gag escaped her lips, as if her stomach was rebelling against the memory alone.

    Her eyes began to sting with unshed tears. Not eating for a whole day and drinking plenty of water seemed like a good solution to whatever was messing with her.

    But still. No lunch? That would suck...

    Quinn sighed and slung a damp dish towel over his shoulder, a furrowed brow betraying his concern. "Why am I not surprised? Last time you attempted cooking, didn''t you tell me it was a recipe of ''anything that fits on a pan'' or something like that?"

    A sheepish nod from Fii was all the confirmation he needed.

    "Is the mysterious ''something that fits on a pan'' from a reputable source, or was it another one of your fantastical creations that not even rats would eat?"

    A mere shrug of her shoulders was enough to trigger a wave of nausea that had her reaching for the edge of the counter in front of her. Anything to steady her dizzy head.

    Quinn exhaled in exasperation, reaching out to pour Fii a glass of water before speaking. "My best guess, based on the available evidence: food poisoning. Your symptoms suggest Salmonella bacteria or some wild strain of E. coli. Common in undercooked eggs, rare meats, contaminated veggies, or unwashed hands."Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    Despite feeling under the weather, Fii couldn''t help but find humor in Quinn''s exposition. "Or maybe," she added, "just poor kitchen hygiene. How do you know all that anyway?"

    Quinn flashed a brief grin. "I''ve been reading up on general first-aid and basic medicine in my spare time. Some of us here are still interested in learning and self-improvement." He pointed playfully at Fii who frowned, understanding the intent of his jibe.

    "I read books," Fii countered defensively. "If there''s nothing else to do. Sometimes..."

    His lighthearted prodding at her love-hate relationship with academics elicited a smile from her. He gave her a smile of his own. One that was infectious. Too bad it was tainted by an ever-present worry clouding his features as he handed her the glass of water. "I''d go see Sheri if I were you. She''ll give you something for your stomach. Otherwise, you can use their fancy toilets all day, instead of trying not to puke on the job. Again." His grimace matched hers.

    "What do you mean by ''again''?" She grumbled between sips.

    "That night you ate the..." He shuddered at the memory. "...purple pudding?"

    Oh, right. That incident.

    "Right," Fii mumbled, carefully getting up to leave. Her insides threatened to reorganize themselves, and her equilibrium wobbled. Deep breaths were her lifeline; without them, she wasn''t sure how she''d keep her nausea in check. A frustrated sigh escaped her lips.

    This was going to be one of those days, wasn''t it?

    <hr>

    Tucking the memories of this morning''s misadventures into the corner of her mind reserved for self-induced culinary mishaps, Fii headed towards The Aether Clinic. Each step was measured, a tango of sorts with the relentless nausea that gnawed at her from the inside out. But, despite the challenge, the simple act of walking provided a welcome distraction from her roiling innards.

    As she neared the clinic, the usual line of people waiting at the entrance seemed more like a carnival queue than anything else. Conversations buzzed among the crowd, filled with complaints about life, injuries, and the odd medical mystery.

    The rhythmic tapping of a cane against the asphalt caught her attention, and Fii noticed Old Joe in the midst of the throng. She offered him a wave as he swung his head towards her, his deep-set eyes catching hers with the clarity they always held.

    "Oi! How''s ya doin'', Superstar?" Old Joe called out in his peculiar, jumbled speech. A trace of an old Kurigali accent mingled with his slum talk. "Ya lookin'' a li''l off. Doesn''t look like ye''ve got a full basket today. Got a case of drench, yeah?"

    He moved to join the queue, using his cane to nonchalantly sweep aside a few complaining youths to make space for himself, without the faintest hint of remorse.

    Meanwhile, Fii leaned against the wall of the clinic to steady herself. "Worse," she groaned, "a nasty case of the gut jitters, brought on by my own hand."

    His cackle cut through the hum of the crowd.

    Now they were all staring at her. Everyone. Great. How wonderful. Exactly what she needed right now. Public humiliation.

    "Did I mention you''re the best, Joe? Truly, the best?" she grumbled, flashing a sarcastic smile. It probably came across more like a grimace than anything else.

    Joe shrugged, a wide, toothy grin on his weathered face. "Nothin'' I ain''t heard before! If only more people knew. World''d be a better place if I got ta run it." He chuckled before he motioned towards her belly and spoke, "Yer an idjit, kid, but y''are tryin''. I''ll give ya that. Now, don''t let that bugger in there throw ya around like a ragdoll, or worse, dismiss ya."

    "Great advice, as always," Fii muttered, another wave of nausea threatening to bring her to her knees. "Thanks, Joe."

    "Ya welcome, Superstar. Oh, that reminds me..."

    Oh no. That was usually a precursor to...

    "Back in the day," Joe''s voice kicked up to a higher volume, projecting more than usual, ensuring that everyone present could hear him. "there was a story about a gal who went and had somethin'' big injected into her bum..."

    Fii buried her face in her hands and tried to melt into the concrete wall of the clinic. Another of his wild tales. No one needed to hear about that story. Least of all her.

    "Jo¡ª"

    "No, no, wait a minute. Just a minute! Don''t interrupt! It ended up somewhere near her liver. The ol'' docs were givin'' it some really weird name, but I don''t remember what. And then, right after, she let some fella lay with her, without lettin'' ''er insides settle first!"

    "I don''t need to hear this¡ª"

    "Well, sure as day, she got sicker than a cow with the drips, ''n her lover-man started acting all sorts of wrong. Unnatural like. Get this: her belly gets all bloated and swells up to the size of a sack of potatoes! Ended up squirtin'' black pus, stank worse than death. You wouldn''t believe the sight! Her man didn''t last long. Got himself turned into a zom..."

    Kill me now.

    "...then they just took the bloke and doused him with some petrol and..."

    Fii stopped listening after that, trying to tune out Joe''s ramblings by humming a merry tune to herself. Eventually, the story reached its climax and concluded, leaving her in peace, to struggle with her own biological chaos.

    A young boy in front of Fii in the queue shot a look at her before scrunching his face into a grimace. "Gross!"

    Just fabulous.

    "Joe," Fii hissed through gritted teeth, "why? Why?"

    "Just a friendly reminder, is all," Joe said with an irrepressible grin. "Try not ta get into any, er... tight spots." He coughed, a sound more reminiscent of laughter than discomfort. "Don''t end up like her, or somethin'' even worse, alright?"

    Ugh.

    "Don''t sound too unusual ta'' me," a random onlooker piped up. "Just the other day, my buddy found a bug up his butt after he passed out in the park. Should''ve seen him twitch for hours, all squirmy. Like one of them worms at the fish shop!"

    That. That story just pushed her nausea to a whole new level. This was definitely not something she needed to hear right now.

    Great. Super great. This line was taking forever! Fii''s patience was running thin, her finger tapping restlessly against her arm, and her eyes darting back and forth.

    "Oi! Everyone move over! Our Super needs the doc. Now, ye scalawags, shift aside!" Joe suddenly bellowed, and before Fii could protest, she was ushered to the front of the line.

    If there had ever been a moment when the world decided to team up against her, it was this one. Her cheeks flared red-hot, her eyes fixed on the ground, and she clutched her arms tightly around her midsection in a futile attempt to suppress the surging nausea. All the attention, the nudges, the murmurs, the apologetic looks, only served to make everything worse.

    "You didn''t have to do that," she groaned.

    Joe''s laughter echoed as she vanished through the clinic doors, greeted by the familiar clinical atmosphere, sterile and harshly lit.

    <hr>

    Sheri looked up from her notepad, her usually pleasant expression turning sour.

    "Fii," she acknowledged, a pointed exhale punctuating her greeting. "As much as I enjoy seeing you... What have you done this time?"

    Not even a hello?

    The sight of the room she''d grown all too familiar with added a touch of anxiety to Fii''s already overwhelming nausea. "Hi, Sheri," she replied. "Nice to see you too."

    At the invitation to join her on the examination table, Fii steeled herself, and readied herself for yet another lecture. Knowing Sheri and her stringent professional approach, she already knew she was in for a less-than-comforting check-up. Taking a seat on the paper-clad bed, she was just bracing herself for what was to follow.

    With practiced movements and the efficiency that Fii had grown to associate with the clinic, Sheri began her examination. She quizzed Fii on her symptoms, all the while jotting notes in her indecipherable scribble. Fii swallowed her discomfort and recounted the story of her regretful culinary decision¡ªglossing over certain details¡ªwatching Sheri''s face transform into a mask of disapproval.

    Was it really so hard to believe that she managed to give herself food poisoning?

    "Oh, Fii," Sheri murmured, her eyes saying it all. "So, this is going to be one of those appointments, is it?"

    Fii chuckled nervously, twirling her white hair with a finger, a habit when nervousness began to set in. "Maybe..."

    Sheri let out a soft sigh before flashing the penlight in Fii''s eyes. "Normally, I could try giving you some antibiotics and an IV, and we could be done with it." She pursed her lips as she circled around Fii, observing her from various angles. "But since you''re a metahuman, that won''t work. Your body''s... strange, and probably has weird resistance, or something equally annoying."

    "Fantastic," Fii grumbled.

    "So, my recommendation is lots of water and rest," Sheri concluded, handing Fii a bottled water before motioning her to lie down for a full check-up. "You can rest in your old room upstairs. At least you''ll have a personal toilet in there. It''s a miracle you''ve held on this long."

    Ugh, the poking and prodding started now, exactly what she wanted right now.

    "A hero''s job is never done, is it?" Sheri remarked with a sigh. Her hands were warm on Fii''s bare stomach as she gently probed. Then, without warning, a deep, painful pressure was applied, wrenching a cry from Fii. "Good news is that it''s probably just food poisoning. If you''re unlucky, appendicitis. Don''t panic, that was the test."

    Great. Super great. Worst. Day. Ever.

 Chapter 10: Patching Old Cloaks

    Fii lay on her back, a curtain of white hair spilling like a snow-tinged waterfall over her pillow. Her piercing, sky-blue gaze was fixed on the popcorn ceiling above, each bump and texture a meditation, a distraction from her present misery. Despite Sheri''s unwavering nagging to take care of herself, the alien feeling of self-restraint remained just that¡ªalien to her.

    Getting up was hard. Falling back into her comfort zone of her own stubbornness was far too easy.

    To ease her restlessness, the room offered a window view, inviting her to retreat into daydreams. Her sanctuary for the next few hours. If only boredom wasn''t one of her sworn enemies...

    Outside, people meandered in their mundane routines, completely oblivious to her plight.

    If the gangs knew she was bedridden, would they try to take advantage of the situation? Start something up in the slums while she was stuck in here? Probably not.

    The scare from the revelation of her killing Prime must have been effective enough to keep them from stirring up any trouble, even without her present. Virgil was likely behind some of it, too; making sure everyone knew they''d both end them if they misbehaved. Then again, any reputation she had with the gangs, Virgil had ten times more.

    But that didn''t mean every new gangster, or freshly hired musclehead, knew the rules or the players. You never knew when a drifter or two from out of town would spark trouble...

    The gangsters at least respected the clinic. One of the unwritten codes of the slums was that you left the clinics alone. Period. The staff were invaluable to everyone''s survival. Even the gang leaders understood that a clinic''s continued operation was paramount to their interests. This wasn''t a law enforced by her, but rather, one born from necessity in these fractured communities. So, barring any bizarre, unprecedented emergency, she was safe here.

    Her stomach rumbled ominously.

    Let''s think of happier things. Yes. Take my mind off everything...

    With her white hair cascading over the edge of the bed, she playfully wove individual strands together, crafting a long, fine braid. This wasn''t merely a distraction¡ªit was a test of her self-control. Weaving the longest, most beautiful braid she could manage became her personal challenge, a way to beat boredom. And Sheri explicitly told her not to leave the room, or else she''d staple her to the wall and really get her stuck in here.

    Despite her efforts, Fii couldn''t shake the discomfort of her skin. Not only was her tummy still complaining, but her skin seemed to crawl too.

    "Gotta take a shower soon," she muttered. But maybe later. After all, lying flat on her back, bored out of her mind, was preferable to anything right now.

    The door to her room creaked open, catching her attention with its intrusive sound. Lifting her head to peer at the entrance, she met the dark, almond-shaped eyes of the person she least expected to see here again¡ª''Cobra'' Kasumi. As their gazes locked, a moment of quiet, awkward surprise hung in the air.

    "Oh," Fii mumbled, breaking the silence. "Hey, Kasumi."

    "You," Kasumi said in a tone that seemed to match her apprehension, her delicate hands still gripping the doorknob, the door half-ajar.

    Dressed in her usual style, Kasumi wore a black crop top that flaunted her toned abs and a studded leather jacket that enveloped her slender form. Dark-colored jeans hugged her legs, the frayed ends teasing her ankles, while a pair of combat boots grounded her step. Her raven-dark, shoulder-length hair, meticulously straightened, framed her face in sharp contrast to Fii''s own unruly white mane.

    With the epitome of the perfect resting bitch face, Kasumi regarded Fii coolly, a small frown furrowing her brows.

    "Sheri mentioned a patient recovering upstairs," she began, her gaze wandering around the room with an almost exasperated familiarity before settling back on Fii. "Never thought it''d be you here, though."

    Her voice carried a slight undertone of judgment, which she skillfully tried to disguise by clearing her throat. "The real question is, what could possibly have taken you down?"

    "It was... purple pudding," Fii admitted after a pause, her voice tinged with equal parts regret and embarrassment.

    "Purple... pudding?" Kasumi''s tone shifted, and her eyes widened in what looked like genuine amazement. The ridiculousness of it all brought a tentative smile to her lips, which she quickly subdued.

    "It was something," Fii replied with a nod.

    She continued twirling the strand of hair in her hand, curling it absent-mindedly into a swirl that vaguely resembled a question mark. It was just her natural reflex whenever her hands needed to keep busy.

    "What are you doing here, anyway? Are you sick or something? Don''t you have a gang to run?" Fii asked, a small smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth. The words, albeit harmless, carried an unintended sting.

    The moment those words left her mouth, she instantly regretted them.

    An audible huff echoed in the room as Kasumi rolled her eyes, shifting her attention elsewhere. After a drawn-out silence, Kasumi''s icy response was tinged with annoyance.

    "What gang? What''s left of the Neon Vipers have disbanded and rebranded to another group." Her gaze firmly planted on the window, deliberately avoiding Fii''s direction. "I''m just a lone wolf now."

    "Right, that sounds about right," Fii replied with a nervous laugh.

    A lone wolf? You sure? Still got that black jacket that screams gang member...

    The weight of their shared history settled between them like a lead blanket. There was an inherent tension between them; one could almost feel the spark of past encounters and unresolved conflicts hanging in the air, like the quiet before a thunderstorm.

    Attempting to dispel some of the awkwardness, Fii awkwardly cleared her throat, feeling the familiar sensation of knots in her stomach.

    "So, uhm..." she began, her words carefully measured, trying not to upset Kasumi. "Are you planning to, y''know, reform the gang or something?"

    "No," Kasumi replied curtly.

    Silence stretched for a moment before she continued, her tone softer, almost introspective. "Why would I bother rebuilding a broken system when I can carve out a better path for myself?"

    Fii could hear the shift in her tone, the bitterness slowly dissipating like a retreating tide. That didn''t stop her from running her fingers through her hair, a nervous habit she was still fighting to break.

    Just as Fii prepared to launch another attempt at conversation, to break the stalemate of silence in the room, Sheri appeared at the doorway, casting a skeptical glance at Kasumi. "I thought you went to check on the stocks downstairs?"Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    Kasumi shifted on the spot, her posture stiffening as she crossed her arms over her chest defensively. "And I thought you were supposed to be working, but here you are. Just casually... stopping by to check on me."

    Sheri cocked an eyebrow, her amusement evident, though the usual playful spark in her eyes was strangely absent. Something was amiss.

    "To be fair," she countered, a smile tugging at her lips, "I''m always checking up on you. And don''t avoid my question. Your lurking in here was not part of your tasks today."

    Fii sat up on her bed, her curiosity piqued by the unexpected exchange. "Wait... is Kasumi working here? At the clinic?"

    Kasumi''s frown deepened, her gaze darting between Sheri and Fii as if deciding which battle was worth picking. Finally, she conceded, her shoulders drooping in a blend of annoyance and defeat.

    With a huff of exasperation, she pushed past Sheri and retreated back into the depths of the clinic, her parting shot delivered with a biting sarcasm. "See you later, then." To Fii, the message was crystal clear: Do not get involved.

    Sheri, caught off guard by the swift departure, simply stared after the retreating figure, her usually calm and composed demeanor momentarily disrupted. Turning her attention back to Fii, she gave her a weary look, one that mirrored Fii''s own emotional fatigue.

    "She''s helping out around here these days. After some..." Sheri''s voice trailed off, leaving an unspoken story in the air. Then, with a soft exhale, she gathered herself and continued. "After some incidents, Edith''s gone, and I''m alone running the place. So, she''s been working as a part-time assistant here, since her gang went kaput."

    Sheri closed the door and leaned against it, her hand lingering on the doorknob for a moment too long, as if considering her next words carefully. "Honestly, I don''t understand why you two can''t just get along. You''re not so different, really."

    She couldn''t help but grimace. Fii knew Kasumi to be one of those stubborn mules who refused to budge even an inch. If their past encounters were any indication, her temper was notorious and always on edge, but at least she was tough as nails. Under different circumstances, they might have gotten along...

    She had no interest in reigniting old hostilities, that much she could confirm. Not when Kasumi''s icy exterior, hardened by their past confrontations, had cooled somewhat into indifference.

    Was there a genuine reason they were rivals in the first place? They had only ever fought once after all.

    To be honest, the old Kasumi and the current version felt like different people. The temper and rashness were still there, but... a spark was missing. Was it just a lack of conviction? Her eyes still had that intensity, but it was as if a vital part of her was absent.

    Fii thought about this for a moment, her finger hovering at the edge of her mouth as she often did when deep in contemplation.

    Kenzo''s death probably had something to do with the change...

    Now, it was almost like Kasumi was acting as a watered-down version of herself. She couldn''t fault her, though. Fii had also been devastated at the time. These days, every song of Shunkashuto''s was a bittersweet reminder of Kenzo''s memory. A melancholic twinge always gripped her heart whenever she heard any of their music.

    It must be worse for Kasumi though. They were lovers after all...

    "Fii? Are you listening?"

    At the sudden snap of Sheri''s fingers, Fii''s attention jolted back to her surroundings. "What?" she responded, her confusion plain on her face.

    A small, knowing smile tugged at the corners of Sheri''s mouth. "You okay, Fii? Did you take a mental vacation again?"

    Clearing her throat, Fii sheepishly reached for a glass of water on the bedside table. "Ah, I just have a lot on my mind right now," she said, the cool liquid soothing her dry throat. "Lots of things going on and..."

    And before she could delve into details, nausea struck again, pooling heavily in the pit of her stomach and sending a chill up her spine. Not the ideal time for a tactical retreat to the bathroom¡ªbut there wasn''t much of a choice here, was there?

    "Eep!"

    Sheri quickly moved aside as Fii darted past her, all but diving into the bathroom. The sound of rushing feet and the ensuing clamor echoed through the room, followed by the unmistakable heaving from beyond the bathroom door.

    <hr>

    Once again, Fii found herself, weary and sweat-drenched, stretched out on her bed like a cloth left to dry in the sun. The artificial light in the room seemed harsher, grating on her nerves, mirroring the unsettled state of her gut. Her restless fingers unconsciously fiddled with her hair, twisting and twirling its white strands, as if it could distract from the storm brewing inside.

    Sheri''s presence had been replaced by the hollow silence of solitude, punctuated only by the hum of the clinic''s cooling unit. It wasn''t noisy; it was the persistent background hum that usually lulled her to sleep. But not today. Today, it was the irritating drone that didn''t let her sleep.

    A knock interrupted her misery, startling her from her reverie. Expecting Sheri to check on her once more, Fii braced for more ''constructive criticism'' from the stern-faced nurse. Instead, Quinn''s tousled blond head popped into view, a lopsided grin on his face as he stepped over the threshold.

    "Figured it''s been a while, so you might need some company to stave off complete insanity," he quipped, sauntering in, his arms laden with... something.

    "Huh," was all Fii managed, her throat dry from earlier escapades.

    Quinn settled on the edge of her bed, the weight of his presence slightly dipping the mattress. His dark slacks rustled softly as he readjusted himself, his toolbelt creaking lightly and hanging around his waist like a sash. There were those telltale smudges of oil and grime on his button-down, adding a touch of rough charm to his appearance.

    "You look... uh..." He frowned at her sweat-soaked form, "haggard."

    The remnants of her previous episode still clung to her skin, an unwelcome sheen of sweat coating her flushed face. She probably reeked too.

    But honestly, she didn''t particularly care about it. She had no energy to spare. Opening one eye, she peered at Quinn. Her mouth twisted into a playful sneer, teasing yet fierce. "Wow. That''s how we''re starting this chat? What a charmer."

    Without missing a beat, Quinn chuckled, running a hand through his disheveled blond mop. He bent down and kissed her forehead, despite her state of disarray. In his eyes, there was a sparkle, an enduring affection that seemed immune to her current dishevelment.

    "Gotcha this," he announced, pulling out a paper bag with a flourish. Inside, Fii knew it would be his home-cooked soup.

    Her boyfriend had a penchant for showing love through the language of food. Even if it wasn''t as gourmet as the street foods at her usual haunts, the fact that he took the time and effort to cook for her made her feel...

    Loved.

    "The soup''s got real chicken broth, ginger, and green onions," he whispered, inching closer to her, "not that fake, imitation stuff you think you like." His breath, carrying the aroma of whatever creation he''d brought, wafted past her. As he reached out to dab a cloth at her sweat-slick forehead, Fii leaned into his touch, savoring the warmth of his presence.

    The paper bag crinkled softly as Quinn retrieved a covered bowl and a spoon from it. "Soup''s meant to be warm. And no, your lame excuses won''t cut it this time. I didn''t slave away over a stove for nothing."

    The rich, savory steam from the bowl teased her nostrils, awakening a hunger that momentarily silenced the discomfort in her belly. Was he really going to make her eat now?

    Quinn popped the lid off, the spicy aroma of the chicken broth filling the room, tickling her nose and summoning a bubbling sense of anticipation from deep within her. Ginger and green onions peeked through the clear, amber liquid, a visual feast in their own right. A few clumps of rice added a comforting touch to the ensemble, making the dish look, if not enticing, at least palatable.

    As Quinn ladled a spoonful of the steaming broth and vegetables, bringing it gingerly towards her lips, Fii inhaled deeply before parting her mouth, accepting the offering.

    Warmth filled her mouth, the taste of real, unadulterated chicken dancing on her tongue. The blend of aromas from the onions, the spice of the ginger, and the silken feel of the broth coalesced into an explosion of flavor that momentarily overwhelmed the sickness still gripping her gut.

    "You''re too good at this," Fii murmured, taking another tentative sip after swallowing the first.

    "Flattery isn''t going to fill your stomach. I expect at least half the bowl," Quinn retorted, an affectionate yet firm gaze fixing upon her. "You need the energy, babe. No skimping."

    His finger ruffled the bangs hanging over her face, affectionately mussing her already disheveled hair.

    "You''re enjoying this too much," she shot back, narrowing her eyes at him while swallowing another morsel of broth. "Wait, wait! Too hot!" Her tongue tingled from the scalding heat of the soup. "Ow."

    "Don''t gobble. It''s not a race. Enjoy it slowly," he cautioned.

    The meal progressed with ease, peppered with shared memories, light-hearted banter, and gentle ribbing. After her second helping, Fii, despite her reservations and under Quinn''s stern insistence, succumbed to the demands of sleep. Feeling full, safe, and loved, she drifted off into a restful slumber.

 Chapter 11: Glimmerstrike

    It was just another day in the slums, or so Fii told herself. The same routine, the same noise, the same faces with the same struggles. She could almost predict how her day would go¡ªpatrol the streets, keep an eye out for trouble, help the people who needed it.

    The slums had a rhythm, one she knew well, even if that rhythm sometimes stumbled into chaos. It didn''t matter whether it was a big or small issue, she would step in to make sure things didn''t spiral out of control.

    She walked in the streets, taking in the familiar scenery. People milled about, going on with their daily lives. She could feel their eyes on her, the way their gazes followed her as she moved. But it wasn''t the fearful stares that used to stalk her every move. They weren''t scared of her anymore¡ªthey knew her now.

    Some even lifted their hands to give her a polite wave. That felt... different. Good, but different.

    Fii acknowledged their gestures, feeling a tad awkward as she tried to reciprocate¡ªa quick smile here, a nod there. A lot had happened since her first clumsy attempt at being a Super. Her antics then seemed laughable now.

    With her helmet gone, her old moniker ''Axion'' no longer fit. She was simply Fii. Just Fii. The name and persona ''Axion'' were left in the past, where they belonged.

    As she walked, she let her mind wander. Despite her growing reputation, she couldn''t shake the feeling of being a misfit, a piece that didn''t quite fit the puzzle. Sure, she''d grown into the role, but it wasn''t like she''d signed up for it at first. Circumstances had thrust her into it. Becoming a Super wasn''t a choice she had made¡ªit was a path she''d stumbled upon and somehow kept following.

    Still, despite the occasional twinge of self-doubt, she knew that this¡ªbeing out here, helping in her small way¡ªwas right. This was what Edith wanted. This was what she wanted.

    She ran a hand through her long, white hair, tugging at the knotted ends. A haircut had been long overdue, but somehow the time had slipped away, and now... it was a length she could never have imagined wearing before.

    Maybe she just wanted to look more like Edith. Who knows.

    A distant noise pulled her from her thoughts. It was different from the usual background clamor¡ªa metallic crash, followed by the screech of tires and shouts. Trouble.

    Without a second thought, Fii took flight, rocketing towards the commotion. As the streets sped by underneath her, she braced herself for what she might find.

    A mini-truck and a smaller van lay entangled on the narrow street. The van had rear-ended the truck, its front crumpled against the truck''s heavy frame. Already a crowd was beginning to gather, their voices mingling with the stunned silence of the passengers who were starting to come out of their vehicles.

    Fii assessed the situation quickly. It wasn''t a major accident, thankfully¡ªno major injuries. There was the man driving the truck, who seemed more shocked than hurt, and a younger man in the van who was cursing and rubbing his neck.

    She floated down, landing softly on the pavement.

    Just as she was about to announce herself, both men marched towards each other and immediately threw hands.

    They grappled, shoving and exchanging blows in a fierce clash.

    The crowd''s attention quickly shifted from the accident to the brawl. Many of them cheered on the fight, some even placing bets on the outcome.

    "Knock him out!"

    "Give ''im hell!"

    "Beat his ass, Robbie!"

    She sighed, more amused than anything. This wasn''t the first fight she''d seen over a fender bender. People in the slums were known to solve their problems with their fists. Rolling her shoulders, she walked into the brawl and pushed the two men apart with ease.

    "Alright, that''s enough," she declared loudly, holding them at arm''s length from each other. "I''m pretty sure you''ve both thrown your best punches, and from the look of it, neither of you won."

    The truck driver was the first to respond. "What the fuck, kid?! I''ve got a fucking product to deliver here, and now my truck is fucked!"

    The younger one retaliated in an angry voice, "Like you''ve got insurance, jackass! This was obviously your fuck-up. Didn''t you have the right of way?"

    "The fuck I did!" The older man jabbed a finger towards the young one. "I''m the victim here, and I''ll kick your ass. Again."

    Fii held her hands up. "Guys, listen¡ª"

    "NO!" they bellowed in unison, causing her to flinch.

    "Let me bang, bro! You gotta let me bang!"

    Fii looked at the crowd as if to ask for help, but everyone seemed to enjoy the spectacle. She pinched the bridge of her nose and exhaled. She knew where this was heading and hated herself for it, but sometimes you had to roll with the punches... literally.

    "Fine. You win. Ten-second fistfight. Whoever''s left standing has the right of way. Deal?"

    They nodded aggressively. As she let go of them, they instantly went at each other.

    "Fight! Fight! Fight!" the crowd chanted.

    Ten seconds later, the two men, bruised and battered from their brief scuffle, lay exhausted on the pavement, their fight fizzling out as quickly as it had erupted.

    Fii stood between them, hands on her hips, looking down with a smirk. "So, what was that about a right of way?"

    "Fuck it, I ain''t getting up," the older man grunted. "Let that shithead through."

    The younger one spat some blood to the side. "Yeah, whatever. Your busted-ass van can pass, too."

    She nodded. "That''s the spirit."

    She walked to the small truck and tilted it upright with her power, eliciting a soft ''whoa'' from the gathered audience. Then she did the same for the van. The two men lumbered to their vehicles, nursing their injuries and muttering about revenge.

    "You better watch your ass, Robbie."

    "Yeah? You wanna go again, you crazy old fuck?"

    "How about I pull over right now and beat your ass again, dipshit?"

    "Anytime, anyplace!" the other responded, flipping the finger.

    Their vehicles sputtered and coughed¡ªbut didn''t start.

    "You''ve got to be fucking kidding me!" the young man shouted.

    "God dammit!" cursed the older one as he leaned his head against the steering wheel in frustration.

    Fii laughed to herself and headed over to the older man''s truck. As she lifted it up with her power, the driver jumped out and began to inspect the undercarriage.

    He poked his head out and shouted, "Oil''s spilling. Can you check his ride?"

    Fii went to the van and lifted it as well. "Yeah, you''re leaking coolant."

    A man from the crowd hollered, "Hey, there''s a Scrap Savvy down the street, they''ll have oil and coolant for sure."

    Fii nodded. "All right, fellas, listen up. I''ll tow you both to Scrap Savvy, get your vehicles fixed. And I don''t wanna hear any complaints, got it?"This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    They looked at each other, then at her. "Fine," they grunted in unison.

    Smiling to herself, Fii levitated their vehicles and set off towards the Scrap Savvy. People on the streets cheered and hooted as she passed. She waved at the onlookers, feeling a bit like a celebrity parade.

    Her smile soured, and she let out a soft sigh. It felt different without her helmet¡ªraw, exposed. Maybe she missed it, maybe just a little. She used to love that helmet, its sleek black visor, its commanding air. But now...

    Well, it wasn''t like she could just slap on a new one.

    She didn''t get time to dwell on that, because her gaze was drawn to a shimmer of golden light, bright enough to cut through the grime and gray. Her stomach dropped. What now?

    The light spread out in sharp, angular patterns, creating shapes that looked almost crystalline, suspended in midair. And at the center of it all, a figure appeared. The crystalline shapes coalesced into translucent platforms under her feet, glowing brilliantly.

    With her platinum blonde hair pulled into a high ponytail that cascaded to her waist, and dressed in a form-fitting iridescent suit that shifted colors, she was... gorgeous.

    Four drones circled her, their lenses focused on her figure as she gracefully descended on her crystalline platforms, their kaleidoscopic light show adding to the spectacle. It was like a scene straight out of the Metropolis¡ªa surreal performance in the midst of the slums'' drabness.

    The crowd that had cheered for Fii now gasped in awe, their attention entirely captivated by this new arrival.

    "Who..." Fii muttered, her voice trailing off in wonder.

    The woman touched down, her boots clicking on the cracked pavement, her lips curling into a grin that screamed smug.

    Fii moved before she could even think, putting herself between this stranger and the crowd behind her. With a mental twitch, she settled both broken-down vehicles on the ground.

    Whoever this was, she wasn''t here to lend a helping hand.

    "Can I help you?" Fii asked, her tone steady despite the storm of questions swirling in her head.

    "Axion, right?" the newcomer began, her hands settling on her hips. "I heard of you."

    "Name''s Fii." She nodded towards the hovering platforms and the drones. "Impressive show."

    "Oh, you haven''t seen my show yet. I''m Glimmerstrike, Metropolis''s newest rising star. My agency''s asked me to ''expand my audience'', so I''m here for a bit of..." She twirled her finger in the air. "Outreach."

    "Agency? Outreach?"

    "Right," Glimmerstrike laughed, sounding a bit condescending. "You wouldn''t know how things work. It''s different in the big city."

    Fii folded her arms across her chest. "I get that. So, why are you here?"

    "Well, they want me to be more¡ªhow did they put it¡ª''down-to-earth'', so they booked me for a slum tour. Figured a couple of heroics down here could boost my rep." She shrugged nonchalantly.

    "So you''re here for the publicity?"

    "I mean, isn''t that why we all do it? But seriously, the crowd here, they seem decent. Plus, the drones are here to stream it. Best of both worlds."

    Stream? What''d that mean?

    Fii squinted her eyes. "Are you really a Super then?"

    "I''m whatever I need to be, baby. Super, celebrity, savior¡ªwhatever the agency wants." She tilted her head, sizing up Fii. "But I gotta admit, you''re a surprise. Didn''t think the slums could churn out someone with powers."

    A tinge of irritation prickled at Fii.

    "Well, guess that''s one stereotype busted," she shot back. "We''re not all helpless down here, y''know."

    "Oh, I didn''t mean it like that," Glimmerstrike replied, brushing off the comment. "Anyway, I''m on a tight schedule. Agency''s expecting some good footage from my ''Slum Run.'' So..."

    She turned to face one of the drones and grinned, flicking her ponytail back. "How do I look?"

    An automated voice replied, "Camera-ready."

    "That''s what I like to hear." Glimmerstrike shifted her stance and lifted her chin, striking a pose that was undeniably dramatic. "Okay, start recording. We''re live in three, two, one..."

    The energy shifted immediately, Glimmerstrike''s smile widening as her voice became sickeningly sweet.

    "Hey, everyone! Glimmerstrike here, bringing you an exclusive look at the slums. Today, we''re gonna shine some light where it''s needed most." She glanced toward Fii, her eyes narrowing just slightly before her smile returned. "And look what we have here¡ªsomeone playing hero. Isn''t that adorable?"

    The drones swiveled to capture Fii and the people behind her.

    Fii lifted a hand. "Listen, if you''re here to help, we could¡ª"

    "What''s this?" Glimmerstrike interrupted, stepping around Fii and gesturing dramatically towards the two vehicles she had set down. "A truck and a van? In shambles? What happened here?"

    One of the bystanders stepped forward to explain, "They just crashed, ma''am. She helped them out."

    Glimmerstrike feigned a gasp. "How terrible! You mean Axion used her power to make them crash? For what, some twisted thrill?"

    "What?" Fii exclaimed. "No! This was an accident. I''m getting them to a mechanic."

    "Sure, that''s what they all say. But don''t worry, folks. I''m here to help. Glimmerstrike, the real Super, has arrived!"

    The drones focused solely on her, a spotlight from one of them bathing her in a bright, warm glow.

    "Hold on, they crashed on their own¡ª" Fii tried again, her voice drowned out by the woman''s theatrics.

    Glimmerstrike waved at the drones, her smile all polished charm. "Don''t worry, I''ve got this under control. No more accidents, no more wannabe heroes putting people at risk."

    She raised her hand, and the golden constructs around her began to shift and reshape, forming translucent barriers that boxed Fii in. The constructs closed in, pushing Fii back and separating her from the others.

    "What the¡ªHey! What are you doing?" Fii sputtered, bumping against the barrier.

    What is this thing?

    She pressed her palm against the surface. It looked glass-like, shimmering with light, but felt solid and unyielding.

    "Just a precaution," Glimmerstrike replied with a sugary-sweet voice. "Can''t have you running around causing more trouble, can we?"

    "Let me out, now!" Fii glanced back at Robbie and the older man, catching their uneasy stares. Turning back to the smug Super, she continued, "Look... Glimmerstrike, was it? This isn''t about a show. These people need to get their cars fixed. You''re not helping by boxing me in."

    "I am helping. By dealing with a reckless, wannabe Super." Glimmerstrike sashayed closer before turningk to the drones, giving them an exaggerated sigh. "But that''s the problem, isn''t it? She doesn''t understand she''s the real danger here. People like her¡ªreckless, uncontrolled¡ªthey''re the ones putting everyone at risk."

    Fii could feel her frustration rising, her power swelling in response.

    Was this person really calling her a danger to others? Did she just toss accusations like that around? Not knowing all the facts? Or maybe she did and simply didn''t give a shit.

    She punched the barrier hard. The sound of her fist impacting it rang out like a dull thud.

    "You''re gonna want to let me out," she warned, a menacing undertone creeping into her voice.

    Glimmerstrike laughed¡ªa haughty, mocking laugh. "What''re you gonna do? Throw a tantrum¡ª" But her words died mid-sentence.

    Her mouth gaped in astonishment as Fii used her power to snatch her off her feet and slam her against her own barrier. Once, twice, a third time. With every impact, a resounding thud echoed around them, the barrier shaking, the crowd cringing in sympathy, and Fii''s expression darkening.

    A fourth time.

    A fifth.

    Glimmerstrike''s face, initially smug, morphed into a grimace as she repeatedly found herself hurtling into her own construct, its seemingly infallible shimmer starting to waver with each collision.

    A sixth.

    By the seventh impact, the golden constructs around her began to flicker and dissipate. The once-iridescent walls faded away, crumbling into light particles, then vanished with a soft, hissing noise, and Fii was free.

    Landing hard on the pavement, Glimmerstrike scrambled back up, her posture rigid, and her smile replaced by a wary glare. "What the... How did you..."

    "I could do a lot more than that. Next time, listen first, judge later," Fii said, her tone edged with annoyance. She hadn''t wanted to be this aggressive, but she wasn''t going to stand by and be accused of something she hadn''t done. "Now, are you going to let me get these men to a mechanic? Or do I have to force you to take a nap first?"

    Glimmerstrike dusted herself off, the smile returning, albeit more strained this time. "Ha-ha, well played. I see you''ve got some moves." She glanced at the drones, signaling at them subtly. "Cut the stream. We''re done here. Looks like we''ve got ourselves a feisty one."

    The lights on the drones dimmed as they adjusted their positions.

    "Can we... go now?" Robbie asked, his voice low and uncertain.

    "Yes, please," Fii said, floating the broken-down vehicles up again with her power.

    The crowd around them had thinned out, many having turned back to their daily business, while others still watched warily from a distance.

    "Before I go," Glimmerstrike said, her voice dropping to a more serious tone, "let''s get one thing straight. You''re the metropolis'' public enemy number one. You''re the infamous ''hero-killer'' Axion¡ªthe one who murdered Prime."

    "He attacked us first. You don''t know the full story."

    "Prime would''ve never."

    "You weren''t there," Fii said. "He didn''t give me any choice, and that''s something I have to live with."

    Truthfully, Prime did give her a choice¡ªa bad one.

    Glimmerstrike''s eyes narrowed. "Interesting perspective. Well, a little word of advice: Watch your back. People are after you, and I''ll be one of them." She gave her a sly glance. "And when I catch you, it''s straight to the authorities. Got it?"

    Fii shrugged. "It''s not going to be that simple, but sure. Good luck."

    With that, Glimmerstrike launched herself upward, a small golden platform appearing just in time to catch her feet. As she soared higher, more platforms appeared under her feet, forming a glittering staircase into the sky. The drones swarmed after her, zipping away and disappearing over the rooftops, leaving Fii and the onlookers in a state of puzzled silence.

    "What a piece of work," she muttered under her breath. Shaking off the confrontation, she focused back on Robbie and the older man. "Sorry about the delay. Now, let''s get you and your rides fixed, okay?"

 Chapter 12: Same Rust, Different Metal

    The slums were always alive in a way the Metropolis could never understand. Not in the shiny, overstimulated way of neon lights, but in a kind of stubborn hum, like an old machine refusing to die. There was rhythm here, the syncopated noise of creaking pipes, distant laughter, and voices shouting over the rumble of a passing scavenger cart. It was a melody stitched together from the struggle and persistence of people just trying to get by.

    Fii crouched over a length of cracked, rusted pipeline, hands smeared with grease and grime, her white hair sticking to her face in damp strands. She wiped her forehead with the back of her wrist, smudging dirt across her temple like war paint. A thin trickle of water dripped stubbornly onto her sneakers, adding insult to the general state of disarray, which had her teeth grinding in irritation. If this were a normal day, her mood would have been less than stellar.

    "Hold it steady, Quinn," she said, glaring at the makeshift clamp in her companion¡¯s hands. "If this thing slips one more time, I¡¯m calling it a day and letting the whole block learn how to swim."

    Quinn knelt beside her, his pale face framed by the mess of shaggy blond hair that never stayed out of his eyes. His hand, shaking a little from the strain, kept the clamp in place. He glanced at her and chuckled, his voice filled with a laid-back ease that was typical for him.

    "Aw, don''t be like that," he said, flashing a lopsided grin. "Remember that one summer where the block was without water for three weeks? Good times, huh?" He laughed at that, as if this were the best joke he''d heard all week.

    Fii looked at him with a deadpan expression, pausing her work. "When you can drink good memories, let me know."

    "See, now that''s comedy. Better watch it, your face might get stuck that way. Wouldn''t want to miss out on scowling at all the joy in the world."

    "Quinn..."

    "Yeah, yeah, okay. But try not to look so miserable next time," he said, flashing another disarming smile. "Besides, I know you wouldn''t dare leave these people high and dry. Not our Fii. Who would keep this place from falling apart?"

    A soft sigh escaped her lips, and her frown softened a little.

    He wasn''t wrong. It wasn''t just the clanking of wrenches or the way his grip faltered every few seconds¡ªthough that was irritating enough¡ªit was the faces. A couple of kids hovered nearby, their wide eyes watching her every move like she was doing something miraculous. It wasn¡¯t easy to disappoint an audience like that.

    "Guess you got me there," she murmured.

    "That''s the spirit," Quinn quipped, adjusting the clamp with a grunt. "Now, let''s show these pipes who''s boss, shall we?"

    Fii turned her attention back to the stubborn leak. "You sure you''ve got the clamp secure?"

    "Steady as a rock, boss." Quinn''s words were undercut by the tremor in his hands, but his smile never wavered.

    "Good, because you''re paying for damages if you slip again."

    "Hey now, don''t go threatening my non-existent coin purse," he joked, but she could hear the edge of panic in his voice. "I''m pretty sure I have, like, an empty wrapper in there or something."

    "Just focus. You drop it, I''ll toss you in that leak, understand?"

    He chuckled. "Tough crowd. Don''t worry, I''ll keep my end up."

    As Fii started to reseal the pipes, she found herself smiling, even though the old rubber was hard and cracked, the metal joints stiff and uncooperative. There was something oddly comforting about the stubborn, messy reality of fixing things. Maybe it was the satisfaction of knowing that even though the slums were a shabby patchwork of dysfunction, they were still standing. Still managing, still breathing.

    And every small, dirty repair she could manage helped keep the lungs of this place clear.

    She brushed the sweaty hair from her face, her fingers raw from the effort, her clothes damp. Even though the sweat dripped into her eyes, stinging and blurring, she kept working. One more twist, one more clamp, one more seal to keep the water flowing.

    "This''ll only last a week, maybe less," she warned him. "We''re cooking with spare parts here. We''ll need better material to make this a proper repair. All I''m doing now is stalling."

    "I''ll start digging around the depot. Bet there''s something usable buried in all that chaos," Quinn said with a hint of enthusiasm. "If there''s one thing we have plenty of in the slums, it''s junk to repurpose."

    Fii felt the pipes give a creaking protest as she adjusted another stubborn joint, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Too bad you can''t just slap a clamp on the bigger problems around here, huh?¡ªOkay! Think that''s done. Now hand me the sealant."

    Quinn rummaged through the bag and passed her a battered tube of adhesive, its label worn to the point of illegibility. "You know, you could just use your... thing," he said, making a vague gesture with his hands. "Clamp the crack shut or whatever."

    Fii shook her head. "If I mess up, I''ll make it worse. Besides, I can''t babysit this leak forever. Gravity powers aren''t a fix-all. Now pass me that piece of scrap."

    Quinn reached for a corroded scrap of metal, its surface pockmarked and discolored, and handed it to her. "Here. One sad excuse for a patch, at your service."

    Fii used a rusty pair of pliers to curl the scrap into a semblance of a circle and secured it over the patched-up crack. Then she applied the sealant, her fingers leaving behind smudges of black goo on the metal. She leaned back to look at her work and frowned. It was hideous, asymmetrical, and held together more by hope than by skill.

    Quinn looked at her with a half-apologetic, half-amused grin. "Not too shabby. Looks almost like a professional did it. Maybe in the dark. With their eyes closed."

    "Oh, shut it, Quinn. This is supposed to be your job," Fii said, chucking the empty can of sealant at him.

    He caught it, still laughing. "I told you what to do didn''t I? You''re the only one strong enough to handle the harder stuff."

    Fii sighed and gave the pipe one last, firm twist. "All right, that''ll have to do for now. Let''s test it."

    She stood up and went to turn on the water source. The pipes groaned and wheezed as water trickled through the network of ancient plumbing, hissing and rattling their complaints about age and neglect. For a tense minute, nothing much happened. Then, like a weary sigh, a stream of water began to flow out of the faucet. It was brown at first, but then ran clearer and clearer until a kid was able to jump in the stream, whooping and hollering in the spray.

    Fii watched the water gurgle to the ground, and then stood up with a groan. Every muscle in her back protested the movement. She brushed a stray strand of sweaty hair from her face and stretched, trying to work out the kinks in her shoulders.

    "Well, we didn''t drown the block, so I''d say that''s a win," Quinn said, patting her shoulder. "Seriously, you''re doing great. Could''ve been a disaster here. Someone else might have really messed this up."

    Fii grunted and shot him a pointed look. "You owe me a massage after this, I swear." She jabbed a finger at his chest.

    Quinn held up his hands in mock surrender, his eyes twinkling. "Don''t threaten me with a good time."

    Fii rolled her eyes, her gaze drifting to the cluster of kids perched on a nearby stack of crates. Their wide eyes followed her every move, a mixture of awe and curiosity etched into their dirt-streaked faces. One of the younger ones¡ªa boy no older than seven¡ªgrinned at her, his missing front teeth making the expression all the more endearing.

    She waved back, a small smile tugging at her lips. Then she tossed the wrench into the air and let her power wrap around it, spinning the tool around her a few times before she guided it back into the toolbox with a faint clunk.

    The kids gasped in unison, their eyes as wide as saucers.

    "Do it again!" one of them shouted, clapping his hands with excitement. "I wanna see you float, too!"

    "Yeah, fly!" another chimed in, bouncing on his feet.

    "Only if you stay out of trouble," she replied with a playful wink.

    Fii leaned forward slightly and adjusted her stance, letting the familiar feeling of her power wash over her. In the next moment, she was several meters off the ground, hovering effortlessly. The group of kids whooped and cheered as she zipped around the area, performing an aerial dance that was half-ballet, half-silly antics.

    She did barrel rolls and loops, her feet tracing invisible patterns in the air while she laughed, caught up in their infectious enthusiasm. Finally, she let herself drop back down to the ground, her feet touching the earth again with a gentle tap.

    Quinn was leaning against a wall, arms crossed, watching her with a smile. "You know they''re lying, right? Trouble¡¯s the only thing they¡¯re good at."

    "Pot, meet kettle," she quipped, offering him a playful nudge. She grabbed the wrench again and twirled it in her hand, using her ability to spin it around her wrist and fingers in an effortless display. It glided over her skin like it was skating on ice.

    The kids ooh''d and ahh''d, clapping and giggling at the show.

    "Wow, I want gravity power too! I''m tired of running," one of the boys cried out, reaching up as if to catch the wrench mid-air.

    "Yeah, me too. And I want a cake shop," a girl added, crossing her arms.

    The wrench''s gentle circling came to an abrupt halt as a sharp, unnatural sound shattered the moment. It was like glass breaking in reverse¡ªa crystalline crackle that set Fii¡¯s nerves alight. The kids fell silent, their laughter replaced by the scuffle of shoes as they backed away from the sound. Fii turned her head slowly, her muscles tensing as her eyes scanned the alley for its source.

    A wall of shimmering golden light materialized at the alley¡¯s entrance, the glow bright and jarring against the gloom. It stretched upward, cutting off their exit like a radiant guillotine. The air buzzed faintly around it, a soundless hum that tickled the edges of her hearing. Fii¡¯s heart sank.

    "You''ve gotta be kidding me," she muttered, lowering her hand to her side, the wrench still firmly in her grip.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

    From behind the glowing barrier stepped a familiar figure clad in an iridescent body suit. Glimmerstrike. Her high ponytail bobbed with each confident step, and the self-assured smirk on her face was as sharp as the barrier she had just conjured. Her drones, sleek and discreet, flanked her, their cameras ready to record every moment of the encounter.

    Fii felt a surge of irritation coupled with a twinge of resignation. Just when she was starting to feel good again. So much for that.

    "Lookie what I caught," Glimmerstrike purred, the mocking edge in her voice loud and clear. She paused to consider the dirty faces and ramshackle surroundings before continuing. "Scavenging tech from the block? Are you that desperate for scraps to sell? Or perhaps there''s a more sinister motive at play."

    Fii had a retort on the tip of her tongue, ready to throw it back in her face, but the words died before they could form. Instead, she just stood there, watching the kids scatter to the shadows like mice from a hawk. A sigh escaped her lips.

    "I was fixing a pipe! And why on earth would I do that if I was stealing stuff?" Fii shot back, waving her wrench in a small, frustrated arc. "You know, just because you''re a Super doesn''t mean you''ve got to show up and ruin my day."

    "Here we go again. Innocent ''till proven guilty, right?" Glimmerstrike''s smirk never wavered as she glanced at the mess of pipes behind Fii and Quinn. "We can skip this little charade, you know. Just admit it and I''ll call it a day. Wouldn''t that be so much easier?"

    "I''m telling the truth!" Fii''s voice echoed slightly off the high, grimy walls of the alley. "Unlike someone else here, who''s just making things up!"

    "Deny, deny, deny. Just like a true slummer. Chat knows, though. They can see right through your lies. Right, chat?" Glimmerstrike said with a giggle, winking at one of her drones.

    Quinn piped up from beside Fii, whispering from the corner of his mouth, "Is she the one you''ve been talking about?"

    "Sadly," Fii mumbled back.

    "I''m thinking she''s kinda hot. And also a bitch."

    "What did you say?" Fii whipped her head around to look at him, but before he could reply, Glimmerstrike was talking again.

    "Didn''t anyone ever tell you it''s rude to whisper in front of others?" she said, clicking her tongue in mock disapproval. "I''ll go easy on you today, though. Consider it a favor. After all, you gave me such a thrilling chase that other day. Had us all on the edge of our seats, didn''t it, chat?"

    Glimmerstrike winked again, this time towards the camera. She was enjoying herself. As always.

    "So," Glimmerstrike drawled, sauntering closer, "shall we pick up where we left off?"

    "You mean after I smashed your face into one of your own walls?" Fii quipped, a dangerous edge to her tone.

    Glimmerstrike''s smile wavered for a brief second, a flicker of anger crossing her face, before smoothing out again.

    "Now, that wasn''t very nice, was it? And after I was just about to cut you some slack." She gave a small, sharp gesture with her hand and another barrier materialized, cutting Fii off from her path to the streets. "Can''t let my fans think I''m going soft, right?"

    "You''re a real piece of work," Fii scoffed, her body tensing, the wrench in her hand seeming suddenly useless. She was aware of the cameras capturing her every move, every expression. "Alright, if we''re gonna do this, can we at least go somewhere else? There are kids around here and I just fixed this block''s water system. I''d like it to stay fixed for a while."

    Glimmerstrike cocked her head to the side, her eyes taking in the surrounding alley. Then, a small smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. "Fair enough. Let''s find a more suitable location. You seem to know this place better than I do. Lead the way."

    Fii turned to Quinn, leaning close to him. "Think you can keep yourself busy for a while? I''ll try to wrap this up quickly."

    He shrugged, scratching the back of his neck. "Yeah, whatever. I''ll go scout for parts to reinforce that patch-up job. Meet you at the usual spot later?"

    "Sounds good." Fii nodded and turned to the Super, who was still looking at her with that annoyingly smug smile. "You wanna dance, sparkles? Alright, let''s do this."

    <hr>

    Fii launched herself up towards the rooftops. Glimmerstrike followed closely behind, using her constructs of golden light to form stairs under her feet, her drones swarming around them like overeager fireflies. The chase led them down a labyrinth of alleys, over piles of scrap metal and rusted-out car frames.

    Eventually, they arrived at the Rusted Colosseum. The building was a massive, decrepit structure that had once served as a baseball stadium before being repurposed as a makeshift entertainment hub for the slums'' less savory crowds. Its crumbling walls loomed large over the surrounding structures, casting long shadows across the ramshackle neighborhood below.

    As Fii landed, a cloud of dust kicked up around her, and she squinted against the harsh sunlight.

    Glimmerstrike descended a few moments later, casually forming a barrier underneath her to break her fall, which immediately dissipated once she was safely on the ground. Her drones hummed around her, their cameras angled to catch the best possible angles.

    The inside of the colosseum was just as dismal as the rest of the slums. Large patches of the bleachers were missing, leaving gaping holes that revealed the metal skeleton underneath. Graffiti and stains of unknown origin splattered the walls, while trash littered the ground. The field itself was a patchwork of dead grass and packed dirt.

    "This is your big idea of an arena?" Glimmerstrike sneered as she surveyed their surroundings. "What a dump."

    "If you wanted luxury, you should''ve stayed in the Metropolis." Fii took a step forward and dropped her hands to her side, clenching them into fists. "This is the slums, princess. It''s not supposed to be pretty."

    Glimmerstrike merely rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Just remember, chat''s watching. Let''s make this fun." She snapped her fingers, and the drones around her buzzed to life, their lenses zooming in on the two.

    Fii smirked, raising a hand and gesturing with two fingers in a ''bring it'' motion. "Let''s see what you''ve got."

    Glimmerstrike lunged forward, forming a barrier in her palm as she swung at Fii''s face. Fii ducked under the attack, dodging to the right as the barrier passed harmlessly over her head. She countered with a kick aimed at Glimmerstrike''s ribs, but the hero formed another barrier just in time, deflecting the blow.

    Back and forth they traded blows, circling each other in the dust and debris of the colosseum floor. Glimmerstrike would strike with quick, precise attacks, while Fii danced around them with acrobatic grace, using her powers to deflect or redirect the blows.

    "You really love the sound of your own voice, don''t you?" Fii quipped between strikes, deflecting a punch with a small burst of gravitational force. "I''m surprised you can breathe with how much hot air you''re spewing."

    Glimmerstrike sneered, continuing to press forward. "Better than the stench coming from this place." She feinted left, then launched a flurry of kicks, forcing Fii to backpedal. "All this talk must be exhausting for you, living in this squalor."

    Fii grunted, deflecting another blow and countering with a strike of her own. "You''d be surprised how much stamina you build up when you''re not being pampered all day." She grinned, continuing to dodge and weave around the attacks. "Not that you would know anything about that."

    Glimmerstrike huffed, clearly starting to lose her patience. She feinted low, then spun around to deliver a roundhouse kick, her heel surrounded by a shimmering golden aura. Fii couldn''t dodge this one and was forced to block it. The impact sent shockwaves up her arm, nearly knocking her off balance.

    "Ooh, did that hurt?" Glimmerstrike taunted, pressing her advantage and raining down a series of blows, each surrounded by her golden aura. "Why don''t you give up and admit defeat, slummer?"

    Fii gritted her teeth, feeling her arms starting to ache from the barrage. She was already tired and sore from her morning work¡ªand the work she did yesterday, and the day before. It all seemed to pile up.

    Sure, she could easily end this fight in any number of ways if she used her powers fully, but part of her wanted to win this the old-fashioned way. The hard way. It was the best way to remind herself of what she was capable of, with or without powers. It kept her honest, grounded.

    It kept her human.

    Glimmerstrike seemed to see the fatigue on her face and laughed. "Getting tired already? What, no powers to bail you out this time?"

    Fii shook her head, her breath starting to come in ragged gasps. "Nah, just enjoying the workout."

    With a surge of effort, she lunged forward, catching Glimmerstrike by surprise with a straight punch to the gut. The air left the hero''s lungs in a whoosh, and she doubled over, gasping for breath. Fii didn''t relent, following up with a swift knee to the jaw, sending the hero sprawling onto the dusty ground.

    Glimmerstrike lay there for a moment, stunned, before slowly pushing herself up onto her elbows. A trickle of blood ran down her chin, and her hair, once immaculate, was now disheveled and dirty. The golden glow around her seemed to flicker, dimming slightly as she glared up at Fii.

    "To hell with this. You''re done." With a swift motion, Glimmerstrike sent a barrage of glowing orbs hurtling toward Fii. She narrowly dodged them, the orbs embedding themselves in the wall behind her with loud, echoing thunks.

    "Scared you''ll lose in a fair fight?" Fii asked, panting heavily as she leaped aside, using her power to shift the trajectory of the orbs in mid-air. But she forgot that she didn''t know how to properly manipulate Glimmerstrike''s light constructs.

    Before her power could even take hold, the orbs phased through her pull and slammed into her, one after another, each impact sending shockwaves of pain through her body.

    "Ugh!" she cried out, doubling over, clutching her side where the orbs had struck. Pain throbbed along her ribcage, but thankfully nothing seemed to be broken. Gritting her teeth, she stood upright, her hands raised defensively.

    "Did you expect me to go easy on you? Get real," Glimmerstrike hissed, her hands blurring as she continued to create more orbs, sending them careening toward Fii in rapid succession.

    Fii knew she had to move, had to dodge, but her body felt sluggish and heavy, every muscle screaming in protest. The orbs kept coming, each one hitting her like a battering ram, knocking her back and sending fresh waves of pain coursing through her.

    "You know, you''re really starting to get on my nerves," she growled, taking a step back and quickly glancing around the stadium, trying to formulate a plan. Her eyes landed on a pile of junk in the corner. Bingo.

    As Glimmerstrike continued to close the distance, Fii dashed towards the pile, using her gravikinetic powers to pull pieces of scrap metal and debris from it and hurl them at her opponent. Glimmerstrike quickly formed a barrier to shield herself, and the makeshift projectiles bounced off harmlessly.

    She kept pulling more and more pieces of junk from the pile, keeping Glimmerstrike on the defensive while she inched closer to her target. When she was close enough, she grabbed the rusted engine block at the base of the pile and flung it towards Glimmerstrike with all her might.

    The Super managed to deflect it with another barrier, but the force of the impact knocked her back, giving Fii the opening she needed. She charged in, ducking low to avoid a hastily-erected barrier, and delivered a powerful uppercut to Glimmerstrike''s chin, sending her reeling.

    Fii didn''t let up, following through with a series of rapid-fire punches that forced Glimmerstrike to keep backing up until she was cornered against one of the crumbling walls of the colosseum. With a final, powerful strike, Fii smashed Glimmerstrike against the wall, causing the concrete to crack behind her.

    Glimmerstrike slumped down, her breathing ragged, her eyes glazed over in pain. She struggled to stand but could only manage to lean against the wall.

    Fii took a deep, shuddering breath, her chest heaving from the exertion.

    "You done?" she asked, wiping a trickle of blood from the corner of her mouth. "Or do you want more?"

    Glimmerstrike coughed, spitting out blood onto the dusty ground. "B...bitch," she croaked, her voice hoarse.

    "That''s me," Fii smirked, leaning forward to offer a mock bow. "Your friendly, neighborhood bitch." She winced, feeling the bruises and scrapes along her body flare up in pain.

    The drones buzzed around them, capturing every detail of their fight. Glimmerstrike''s fans were probably going crazy right now, but Fii couldn''t care less.

    "So, here''s the deal, sparkles," she continued, standing up straight and looking at the other Super pointedly. "You leave me alone, and I''ll forget this little incident ever happened. Deal?" She held out her hand, waiting for a response.

    Glimmerstrike looked at her hand disdainfully. "As if I''d ever agree to that."

    "Look, I''m being nice here. Take it or leave it."

    "I don''t take deals from criminals like you."

    "Okay, fine. Have it your way." Fii sighed, dropping her hand. "Just remember, I went easy on you."

    With that, Fii lifted Glimmerstrike off the ground with her powers, suspending her in mid-air. Then she flew towards The Wall, carrying the struggling Super with her.

    "I swear, if you drop me¡ª"

    Fii looked at her flatly. "I''m not going to drop you. Come on, gimme some credit here. You''re just going on a little trip. Far, far away from me."

    She reached the nearest security checkpoint at the base of The Wall and lowered Glimmerstrike to the ground in front of a group of startled MetSec agents. They quickly scrambled to surround the two, weapons drawn.

    "Delivery for you guys," Fii quipped, giving them a cheeky salute before launching herself into the air and speeding off, leaving a speechless Glimmerstrike and bewildered agents in her wake.

    Once she was out of sight, Fii touched down on a nearby rooftop and slumped against a broken air conditioning unit, wincing in pain. She was battered, bruised, and aching all over, but at least Glimmerstrike was off her back. For now, anyway.

    Every inch of her body hurt, and she was sure she''d have some impressive bruises to show for it later.

    "God, she pisses me off," Fii muttered, closing her eyes for a moment and letting the cool breeze wash over her.

 Chapter 13: Chasing Broken Signals

    A week later, Fii found herself parkouring across the rooftops, running from an angry, sparkling menace in pursuit, with four pesky drones buzzing behind.

    "Keep running, wannabe!" Glimmerstrike hollered, using her golden platforms to launch herself from building to building, the occasional slip-off amusing Fii. "You can''t hide from justice forever!"

    Not in the mood for another confrontation, Fii shot Glimmerstrike and her drones a quick glance, then kicked off a wall for extra momentum. She began zig-zagging across the uneven terrain, leaping from shacks and old ruins, using her power to assist in some of the longer jumps.

    Despite the chase, she was having fun. It was the first time in what felt like ages that she could just let loose and not worry about being in control.

    But, she had to admit, her pursuer''s power was a hassle. The constant barrage of golden projectiles made it difficult to keep an eye on her surroundings, and more than once, she found herself dodging mid-leap to avoid getting hit.

    Even worse, her gravikinesis couldn''t touch those stupid golden things. She had tried once in a previous encounter and had been shocked when her power couldn''t interact with the constructs. Whatever energy made them, it wasn''t physical.

    She heard Glimmerstrike mention something about hard-light, which had flown right over her head.

    What nonsense was she spouting off about ''hard-light'' anyway? All the physics books Fii had read at the gilded library¡ªwhich, granted, weren''t many¡ªhad said nothing about light being hard. You couldn''t touch it, or block it, and you definitely couldn''t make fancy steps or walls with it.

    Fii sighed, irritated at the blatant defiance of the laws of physics. Not like she was one to talk, but still, the idea of light being solid made no sense. But then again, Virgil could shoot spectral bullets and had the reaper possessing him, so what did she know? Apparently, everything was on the table and anything was possible.

    To prove her point, another volley of golden shards sailed her way.

    She dodged to the side, feeling the energy-infused constructs tear through the fabric of her hoodie, just missing skin. The near-hit didn''t frighten her, it frustrated her.

    These random chases across the slums were starting to become a real drag. Why couldn''t Glimmerstrike just let her be? Sure, they had gotten off on the wrong foot, but was it really worth all this drama?

    Fii could have, at any point, ended the farce, turned around, and knocked the Super out. But what was the point? That''d make her reputation with the Metropolis even worse, and it wasn''t like she wanted to fight. Plus, those drones were apparently recording everything.

    Earlier, she had asked Tweak what ''live-streaming'' was because that was the word Glimmerstrike kept using. Now, knowing that their fights were being broadcast to tens of thousands of people?

    The thought made Fii shudder, and it made her second-guess every action she took. The last thing she needed was to give the people of the Metropolis more reasons to paint her as a villain.

    "I can do this all day!" Glimmerstrike''s cocky voice echoed, drawing another exasperated sigh from Fii.

    "Yeah, yeah, you''re having fun. I get it," she murmured to herself, still running. She felt a sudden desire to drop out of sight, find a quiet corner, and just... be. Maybe, if she disappeared for long enough, this newfound headache would give up and go away. Maybe the next Super wouldn''t be as annoying.

    "Faster, faster!" Glimmerstrike cheered at her drones, their cameras trained on Fii. "Make sure to catch her good side!"

    Not likely.

    Just as Fii was about to double down and put some significant distance between her and the Metropolis'' Super, an old man popped out of a rooftop entrance, clutching a stack of clothes. He looked like he was caught in the middle of doing laundry or something.

    Not paying attention to his surroundings, he stepped right into their path. Fii saw him, and her heart jumped. At the speed she was going, she couldn''t afford to dodge now. Instead, she focused her power on the man, quickly wrapping him in her field and floating him aside.

    The old man startled at the sudden lift but thankfully didn''t panic and flail about. With him out of the way, she made a quick landing, jumping right past him. Seconds later, Glimmerstrike followed suit, touching down on a golden platform, her drones surrounding her.

    The old man, clearly bewildered, dropped his laundry and started shouting, "What''s going on? What are you kids doing?"

    Fii glanced at Glimmerstrike, giving her a look.

    "None of your business, grandpa. Why don''t you run along and let the heroes handle this?" Glimmerstrike quipped, not even bothering to look at him.

    Fii noticed Glimmerstrike look at one of the drones and frown. Her demeanor turned defensive and she yelled, "Hey, you think I care about your stupid chat donation questions?"

    Donation what?

    "Oh, do I care about the civilians?" Glimmerstrike''s mocking tone carried a weight of annoyance. "Of course, I care. I''m a hero. Duh!" She flicked her ponytail back with a huff. "Who asked that? IDIOTSlayer24? Ugh, I''m reporting your ass! They ban people for less."

    Fii and the old man exchanged confused looks.

    "Who''s she talking to?" he asked.

    "No clue," she admitted, as puzzled as he was. Must be a live-stream thing. Tweak did say the viewers could somehow send in comments. But honestly, it looked more like Glimmerstrike was just talking to herself. Kind of... strange, to put it nicely. ''Chat,'' huh? Probably had a different meaning in this context.

    "Now, if you''ll excuse me¡ª" Glimmerstrike flashed a wide grin "¡ªI have a lawbreaker to catch."

    She waved her hand, and the air around her shimmered, energy coalescing into more of those annoying golden constructs.

    Fii sighed. This was quickly becoming an absolute pain.

    "Sorry gramps," she said with a slight nod before dashing over and grabbed Glimmerstrike, throwing her off balance with a firm push that sent her stumbling a couple of steps back.

    "Hey! What the¡ª"

    Fii didn''t let her finish. She propelled herself and the yapping Super towards the rooftop''s edge, making sure to angle their flight path away from any structures or people. When they were safely above an empty street, she released Glimmerstrike.

    As the Super fell, her platforms materialized beneath her, saving her from a nasty fall. Fii felt a twinge of annoyance at the convenience of her power. Glimmerstrike always seemed to have something up her sleeve, and her quick reflexes didn''t make things any easier.

    When Glimmerstrike regained her footing and looked up, Fii gave her a cheeky salute. Before the Super could do or say anything in response, Fii veered away, quickly disappearing behind a tall wall.

    As she raced away, she heard the distant thump of Glimmerstrike landing on a rooftop nearby.

    "Oh, come on!" Glimmerstrike shouted, her voice carrying an edge of frustration.

    Fii allowed herself a small, wry smile.

    ''Take that, pain-in-the-neck.''

    She didn''t slow down until she was well out of sight and earshot, then she descended to the ground. Once her feet touched the earth, she slipped into the bustling crowd on the street, becoming just another face in the throng of people going about their daily business.

    Fii let out a sigh of relief and decided to stay on the ground from now on. No more rooftop chases for the rest of the day. It had been exciting, but also mentally and physically draining. The last thing she needed was for her fatigue to give that annoying Super an edge.

    <hr>

    Another day, another chase.

    That''s what Fii had started calling these encounters with Glimmerstrike. Sometimes, they happened on the streets, other times it''d be across the rooftops. Rarely, Fii even found the courage to plunge into the sewer system to shake off her pursuer, or she''d duck into a subway tunnel or any other dark and narrow area where she felt confident the brash Super wouldn''t follow.

    Not that Glimmerstrike was easy to avoid. She kept finding Fii. Kept hunting her. After a while, Fii had learned to quickly spot the flash of the drones around every corner.

    They''d dash through alleyways, jump across rooftops, and occasionally, when things got particularly crazy, they''d grapple. That''s how Fii would describe their interactions - a long, tedious grapple.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    Their most recent interaction was no exception. The moment Fii saw that telltale glitter in the sky, her feet instinctively led her in the opposite direction. She heard the soft whir of the drones behind her, followed by the cocky laughter of Glimmerstrike.

    "Miss me?" Glimmerstrike''s voice boomed, far too cheery for someone engaged in what felt like a personal vendetta. "Time for another episode!"

    "No, just... no, I didn''t." Fii jumped over a gap, a half-eaten synthie roll in her mouth. A meal she was supposed to enjoy became a grub''n''guzzle run. Again. "Go away."

    "Not a chance!" Glimmerstrike taunted, using a golden platform to push herself forward, trying to catch up.

    "Ugh, don''t you have anything better to do?" Fii retorted. "Like, I don''t know, volunteer work? Help the needy?"

    "I am helping! By taking your sorry behind down."

    "You''re out of your mind, lady," Fii rolled her eyes.

    "Out of my brilliant mind, maybe. My sub count is at a new all-time high. Guess there''s just so much fun in watching your backside flee, huh? Chat agrees."

    Chat.

    It seemed like ''the chat'' was a group of people watching them. Probably in the Metropolis. Gross. Tweak had given her a rough idea of how many people supposedly followed Glimmerstrike, but hearing the number and thinking about the weight of having that many eyes on you were two very different things.

    A chill ran down Fii''s spine, not from the pursuit, but from the idea of being watched by thousands. No thanks.

    What made it worse was that the Super knew how to play to her audience. A lot. Her speeches were always eloquent, and she threw her fancy words around like they cost her nothing. Words like ''incorrigible'', ''egregious'', and ''desideratum.'' The more syllables she squeezed in there, the more ''woo''s she seemed to receive from the mysterious chat.

    "Well, chat, looks like Axion here still refuses to learn her lesson. But she''s lucky," Glimmerstrike continued, "because we''re here to teach her."

    What followed was a barrage of golden constructs, which Fii had to weave and jump around, still holding on to her snack.

    "You know," Fii managed between bites, "You could''ve used all this time to actually help people."

    "I am helping people. I''m making sure you''re not around to hurt others."

    "Not... not hurting anyone."

    "Sure, keep telling yourself that. We all know the truth. You might''ve fooled these people, but not us, not the Metropolis."

    The comment grated on Fii. So much. "I''m not the bad guy here."

    "Sure you''re not. And I''m not trying to take you down for the views."

    Another construct aimed at her. Another evasion.

    They played this game of cat-and-mouse for what seemed like a tedious hour, with Glimmerstrike closing in dangerously a few times. Fii got close to eating the pavement twice, which would''ve been a shameful way to lose to Glimmerstrike. The drone cameras capturing her embarrassing moment of defeat? No thank you, she''d rather swallow glass.

    At one point, Fii had used her gravikinesis to shove her pursuer to the side to gain a bit of distance. Not wanting to injure the Super, she kept the push light. After their first encounter, when Fii had thrown her against the hard-light walls a bunch of times, she felt bad and realized they were both playing for the same team.

    After all, Glimmerstrike had entered the slums with a good intention in her heart, albeit misguided, and possibly warped by greed and ambition. But Fii could relate. She was living in a world where that was the norm. Everyone had their own reasons to behave the way they did, and those reasons were usually based on survival. Like hers were.

    As she ducked beneath a low-hanging line of laundry, Glimmerstrike, in her zealous pursuit, lost her balance. Her graceful movements turned clumsy as the clothes wrapped around her face, tangling her up. A couple of drones dipped down to follow what was happening to her, buzzing and clicking, while the others focused on Fii.

    "Damn it! Just¡ª ugh!" came a muffled outburst from the Super struggling with the fabric. "Get off me! Stupid piece of cloth¡ª"

    Fii slowed her sprint, looking back at the chaotic scene with a twinge of pity. This was her chance to slip away. She could have dashed off right there and then, yet something about the situation made her hesitate.

    Maybe it was seeing the usually so confident and sleek-looking woman fumbling around in frustration, or maybe Fii was just a sucker for helping people, even if they were trying to capture her. Whatever the reason, Fii felt an inexplicable urge to lend a hand.

    "Need some help there, oh-glorious-hero?" she called out, letting her gravitational barrier fade so she could approach without knocking over anything in her path.

    Glimmerstrike managed to wrench the clothing from her face, her usually perfect blonde hair in disarray, her expression a mixture of embarrassment and anger. She yanked hard on a piece of cloth still stubbornly clinging to her shoulder, managing to untangle herself just as the clothesline snapped in half.

    Great, now they needed to compensate the family whose laundry had suffered collateral damage.

    Suddenly, Glimmerstrike tackled Fii with an angry yell, sending them both hurtling through a wooden window shutter and into a house''s second story. Planks cracked under the impact, and both of them skidded across the floor, finally coming to a halt amidst a mess of shattered wood and broken furniture.

    A family, huddled together at a simple wooden table, shrieked in surprise, their bowls of steaming rice spilling everywhere.

    Fii groaned, picking splinters out of her hair, and gave the startled family an apologetic look. "Sorry, wrong house," she managed, trying to lighten the mood.

    The family didn''t look amused.

    "Get... off," she wheezed, pushing against the woman''s shoulders to get her off her stomach. With a grunt, Fii felt the woman''s weight shift, and then heard a rustle as Glimmerstrike sat up, straddling her. Her weight settled differently on Fii''s thighs now.

    Glimmerstrike''s ponytail had come undone in the chaos, and her platinum blonde hair cascaded down, framing her face and brushing against Fii''s collarbone.

    "No escape," she said, her breathing ragged, a triumphant smirk spreading across her lips despite the disheveled state of her hair. "Not this time."

    Two drones zipped into the room, circling the duo. One was zooming around at head height, taking in the whole scene, while the other was at a much lower altitude, pointed squarely at... their interlocked legs.

    Oh. Oh no.

    Fii felt her cheeks flush with warmth. She was acutely aware of the position they were in and didn''t want to imagine what Glimmerstrike''s followers were seeing. Or what they were thinking. Or¡ª

    "Whoa. Wow, hey now. Time out. What''s your deal?!" Fii tried to inch out from underneath the Super, only for Glimmerstrike''s hands to latch onto her hips, keeping her pinned firmly. "Personal space. Please!"

    "Sorry, Axion, no can do," Glimmerstrike responded, her tone dripping with a smugness that made Fii''s skin crawl. "We''re kind of having a moment here. A teachable moment, you could say."

    What''s with the lewd camera angle?! she wanted to yell, but held her tongue.

    "This isn''t the place!"

    Fii looked away, her eyes flicking to the family. The mother had covered her kids'' eyes with a stern glare at the pair on the floor. The father, meanwhile, seemed a little too invested in what was happening, earning a sharp jab in the ribs from the mother.

    Great, now she was responsible for a family dispute. Guilt added to her discomfort.

    "Admit it," Glimmerstrike leaned forward, her voice low, her face inching closer. "You can''t beat me. Not when I''m focused. Say it. Say, ''You''re the best, Glimmerstrike.''"

    "I''m not saying that," Fii retorted, feeling the heat rise on her cheeks.

    Reactivating her gravitational barrier here wouldn''t cut it. The debris and furniture would fly everywhere. The family wasn''t in a safe position; they might end up getting hit. The dad would definitely get decked. But as it stood, neither was doing much in terms of action.

    "Say it."

    "No."

    Glimmerstrike''s fingers squeezed Fii''s hips, applying more pressure. Her grip was strong. Fii tried to wiggle out of it, but found her legs immobilized by the tight hold. Every attempt to break free only resulted in Glimmerstrike''s fingers digging deeper, like she was putting Fii in a wrestling lock.

    As Fii looked up into those determined eyes, she noticed a slight blush on the Super''s cheeks. It was a weird mirror of her own flustered state.

    "W-what the hell! You''re getting embarrassed too!" she exclaimed, noticing Glimmerstrike''s face also gradually turning more and more crimson.

    Was she just realizing the suggestive situation they were in?

    "N-no, I''m not," Glimmerstrike stammered, the teasing confidence from earlier melting away. "Just¡ªchat is saying weird stuff!"

    "Where are you seeing the chat?"

    "T-top left."

    "There''s nothing in the top left!"

    "You can''t see it! Because it''s a neural link! Inside my brain! Implants." Glimmerstrike winced and shot a quick glare at one of the hovering drones, then looked back down at Fii with a panicked look, her eyebrows knit together. "Not the kind of implants you think. None of those. God. Stupid chat. You think you''re so smart. Oh, don''t go talking like that, you piece of¡ª"

    Fii took the chance to grab Glimmerstrike''s left hand and flipped her over, reversing their positions. She now held Glimmerstrike''s hands pinned to the ground beside her head.

    A yelp of surprise escaped the Metropolis Super''s lips. "Hey! I was¡ªI was winning!"

    "No, you were being creepy."

    "No, it was... for the stream," Glimmerstrike mumbled, her once-commanding presence diminished. Now she just looked like a girl Fii''s age, maybe a little older, caught off-guard and uncharacteristically shy. "Everyone loves that stuff. Especially if... if it''s cute girls. Chat told me to go for it."

    "What?" Fii''s cheeks were aflame with confusion and a kind of flustered panic. She didn''t understand any of that, but she didn''t like it.

    "It was a bit! Look, my fans love it when I tease. I¡ªI wasn''t trying to make you feel bad. I mean..." Glimmerstrike''s voice trailed off, her eyes darting away from Fii''s scrutinizing gaze. "I mean, maybe a little bad, but not like... not in a cruel way. Just funny."

    "Well, it wasn''t. Not to me. And not to these people either." Fii didn''t ease up on her grip, ensuring the Super stayed put. She tilted her head towards the family who was still staring at them. "Isn''t that right?"

    The mother''s face was a mask of anger. The dad, on the other hand...

    "Junk''s gold if you shine it," the dad said.

    "Really, Rick?!" the mother responded before shooing her family out of the room.

    Fii shifted her attention back to Glimmerstrike. The usually brash and confident Superhero looked oddly vulnerable pinned to the floor. Her disheveled state and the pink flush on her cheeks seemed to scream embarrassment.

    Feeling pity tug at her heartstrings, Fii released her grip. She stood up slowly, dusting off her jacket and shooting a glance at the mess around them.

    "I''ll, uh, send someone to fix this up. Sorry for the trouble," she said, not wanting to leave the family with the chaos she had inadvertently caused. Even if she wasn''t the one who caused it.

    With that, she turned to leave the same way they had barged in, through the shattered window. As she was about to climb through, she glanced over her shoulder, noticing Glimmerstrike still sitting on the floor, absentmindedly twirling a lock of her hair.

    "Let''s keep the chase outside the houses, okay?" Fii said, her words hanging in the air, half suggestion, half plea.

    Glimmerstrike glanced up, and for a moment, Fii thought she saw a flicker of shame cross the Super''s face. "Yeah. Okay."

    And with a silent nod of understanding, Fii was gone, climbing down and vanishing into the labyrinth of the slums before Glimmerstrike''s drones could locate her again.

 Chapter 14: Behind the Glimmer

    Plop, plop, plop¡ªraindrops beat rhythmically against the window, blurring the panoramic view of the cityscape into a watercolor painting of a dreary metropolis. Everything outside was shrouded in a ceaseless gray downpour, with each raindrop further dulling the vibrant neon lights of the city below. From this vantage point in her corporate-sponsored luxury apartment, the world seemed draped in melancholy.

    Serena Holt, or Glimmerstrike, as the world knew her, sat cross-legged on the plush sofa, her back rigid against the soft cushions. One hand absentmindedly twirled a lock of her platinum blonde hair, the other scrolling through the newsfeed on her tablet, her green eyes scanning the myriad of headlines, captions, and hashtags.

    All were variations of the same old tune, "Hero-killer Axion still at large!" or "Prime: Martyr or Misstep?" or her personal least favorite, "Fallen Prime: Casualty in Metropolis'' long history of ignoring the plight of the slums."

    As her frustration mounted, a shimmer of golden hard-light constructs materialized and flickered around her, responding to her power''s entanglement with her emotions.

    "You''d think they''d give me a break," she grumbled to herself.

    With an irritated gesture, she minimized her feed and tossed the tablet aside, watching as it bounced softly on the couch. The clatter would''ve been more satisfying on a hard surface, echoing the simmering annoyance in her mind.

    Just like the rain, it seemed endless, beating down on her every chance they got, chipping away at her spirit. Not only did she fail to capture Axion, but she also made a fool of herself. Again.

    Her cheeks burned as she thought back to that moment. Had she really been that embarrassed?

    To add insult to injury, one of her drones had captured the scene from a particular angle, making it look... provocative. The viral #GlimmAxion hashtag that was currently trending wasn''t helping matters.

    Apparently, a segment of her fans¡ªand even her detractors, it seemed¡ªenjoyed the thought of their rivalry turning into something more. Her social media strategist thought the newfound attention and engagement was the best thing that could have happened to her.

    Serena was still on the fence about that.

    "Oh, just perfect," she said, drawing a leg up to her chest and resting her chin on her knee. Her golden constructs buzzed around her in a comforting cacophony, offering a small respite from her growing anxieties. She''d be content to wallow here forever, never leaving the comfort of her penthouse.

    The corner of her mouth twitched.

    Public relations nightmares were one thing; a live-streamed blunder was another. She had a reputation to uphold, an image to maintain. This wasn''t the way a rising star behaved. She needed to salvage the situation, not just for the sake of her pride, but also for the anxious executives at Paragon Entertainment, who saw every stumble or setback as a potential career-ender.

    Serena clenched her fist, causing a sphere of hard light to form, casting an eerie golden glow across her face. A bitter laugh escaped her lips as she recalled the initial promises.

    They were supposed to launch her into the stratosphere, make her a star that shone brighter than all the rest combined. Her world was supposed to become a whirlwind of high-profile appearances, magazine covers, and maybe even a movie deal.

    The sphere''s surface rippled in response to her anger.

    Instead, she found herself caught in a spiral of misfortune, her career on the brink of collapse after a series of blunders, her stream''s viewer count in a nosedive, and a myriad of fresh bruises to show for her troubles.

    Sure, that viral scene had momentarily boosted her views. But that was days ago, and the effect was already beginning to wane. Plus, a part of her detested the idea of her viewership being dependent on those kinds of antics. It felt cheap, dishonest. As a superhero, she should be known for her deeds, for protecting and saving others, not for her on-camera theatrics, or what the #GlimmAxion fans deemed ''sexual tension,'' or whatever other absurd narrative that lived rent-free in their heads.

    But life had a way of subverting expectations.

    Her thoughts returned to Axion, the root of her current state of mind, that annoying white-haired slumrat that had made a mockery of her every attempt to apprehend her. Serena wasn''t used to losing, let alone suffering defeat so many times in a row. Yet, with every chase, it seemed Axion was toying with her, always a step ahead, always out of reach.

    Sure, Serena wasn''t really giving her all¡ªthe last thing she wanted was to be responsible for a casualty. But neither was Axion, really. She seemed more intent on getting away unscathed than anything else.

    "It''s like she''s messing with me," she muttered, a hint of frustration seeping into her voice.

    A few months ago, the major news outlets were all abuzz about the death of the Metropolis''s most powerful Superhero, Prime, at the hands of the so-called Hero-Killer Axion. Prime had been a beacon of justice and a paragon of virtue, someone who''d inspired countless souls, including Serena, to follow in his footsteps and become a superhero.

    Then, suddenly, he was dead. Gone.

    Even the #GlimmAxion hashtag felt like a slap in the face to Prime''s memory. His killer, who continued to roam free, was now somehow also a part of a joke of a ship?

    Serena was partially responsible for perpetuating that, granted, but she thought that broadcasting her chases through the slums was helping raise awareness. A campaign to finally bring justice to the infamous murderer and do right by the city''s fallen hero. Her agency agreed it was a brilliant idea, too.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    Yet, here she was, sitting in her luxury apartment, nursing her wounds and her ego while Axion was probably lounging in her slum hideout, enjoying her notoriety, laughing at Serena''s relentless failures.

    With a dismissive flick of her wrist, the construct dissolved into nothingness. "What''s her power anyway? Control over objects? Levitation? Or... telekinesis? No, can''t be. Only Prime had that power."

    That''s what the conspiracy theories had said anyway. She''d been in contact with some of her fans on the internet¡ªthe deep divers who kept up with all the rumor mills.

    Serena sighed. "If it''s telekinesis, no wonder I can''t beat her. No one could."

    She rolled her shoulders and exhaled, trying to expel the lingering tension.

    Then, a soft beep and a cool, synthetic voice cut through her musings, "Miss Holt, Paragon Entertainment has requested a debrief."

    An electronic device, embedded in the wall, displayed the time: 8:00 PM in large, luminescent digits.

    "Oh joy, here we go again," Serena murmured, pushing herself up from the couch.

    She paused briefly by the ornate mirror hanging near the wall, straightening her track jacket and tucking a stray strand of platinum blonde hair behind her ear. Her reflection stared back at her, the Glimmerstrike logo emblazoned on her jacket. It was her fifteen minutes of fame, after all.

    "Makeup could do with a touch-up." She knew they''d scrutinize her appearance¡ªthe public, her fans, her haters. They all would. That''s what being a media-friendly, corporate-sponsored Super was all about.

    But a sense of fatigue kept her from walking the extra distance to her vanity. This apartment, this life¡ªit wasn''t hers. The soft hum of the electric clock suddenly seemed to be too loud.

    With a swipe of her hand, the front door slid open, revealing the two burly security guards stationed just outside. Their presence had been mandated ever since the incident in the slums had soured her public image. Safety first, public relations a close second. But their grim faces and muscular stances did nothing to make her feel safer.

    "Officer Flynn, Officer Bailey," Serena greeted them with a polite nod.

    Flynn returned the gesture, while Bailey offered a gruff "ma''am," his expression unchanging. If looks could kill, Serena''s fanbase would''ve been decimated a long time ago. These two weren''t the type you''d invite to afternoon tea.

    They escorted her to the elevator, and the chrome doors opened with a soft whoosh. Stepping inside, she leaned against the back mirror, watching her guards turn to face the closing doors. Soon, the descent began, each passing floor whispering a promise of what was to come: a tedious debrief, an overbearing supervisor, and the endless cycle of proving her worth to an audience she didn''t entirely care for.

    With a subtle movement, her fingertips brushed against the back of her neck, where the biometric implant lay beneath the skin. Her free ticket to the metropolis'' finest establishment. That tiny chip held the essence of her being, her identity, and her prowess. It was her skeleton key to her surreal lifestyle, one that now felt increasingly like a golden cage.

    "Each scan confirms your identity and compares it against the registered information in our database, which includes everything from fingerprints to genetic profile."

    That''s what they had told her, a recollection of her enrollment in the registration program surfacing from the back of her mind. Ever since, access to restricted areas in the metropolis had been as simple as a nod to a nearby biometric scanner.

    Even with her rising fame, Serena felt out of place, a square peg in a round hole. The night outside seemed to reflect her mood¡ªlonely, desolate, with only the raindrops offering any sort of comfort or reassurance that things could be different.

    As they reached the lobby floor, the doors slid open once more, and Serena''s gaze found Officer Bailey''s broad back. He was leading the way across the vast hall, where the city''s elite and business magnates hustled and bustled about. Ignoring the imposing statue in the center, Flynn escorted them to a sleek, black Paragon vehicle waiting outside.

    One last glance at the hotel''s modern architecture, and Serena felt that perhaps a moment of tranquility in her penthouse would have better suited her growing malaise than another lengthy meeting.

    Once settled in the car, Bailey tapped at the control panel, programming in the route and destination. They then pulled away into the rain-soaked streets, and for the rest of the journey, Serena sought solace by watching the city lights blur past in smudges of neon through the droplet-laden window.

    As they neared their destination, the cityscape around them slowly transitioned. Bright neon and holographic advertisements gave way to more reserved, authoritative structures, with high-tech defenses visible for all to see.

    This part of the city always made Serena feel insignificant, an ant scurrying among the towering monuments of humanity''s achievements.

    She couldn''t help but marvel at the ever-present police drones, and the few mechs¡ªlarge bipedal robots used for policing and national defense¡ªstanding guard in strategic locations. As they passed, their scanners briefly turned to eye her vehicle. The area was brimming with government facilities and security hubs, and to her, it seemed a tad too cold and humorless for her taste.

    Above, she could spot a few police craft and autonomous taxis zipping past, effortlessly navigating the sky lanes. It was a clear display of power and technological prowess. Citizens didn''t get to own mechs or hovercrafts without special permits.

    A nearby billboard showcased the latest and tech: a sleek, silver drone. The narration accompanying the ad wasn''t lost on her: "Never fly alone. Get yourself a drone companion. Live, work, and protect with our smart, reliable AI."

    Inwardly, Serena chuckled. Why bother having a baby if you could just buy a fancy flying robot to raise instead?

    She supposed that''s what it came down to in the end. Could artificial intelligence do this superhero gig better than her? With the way things were going, maybe someone upstairs would decide to test that theory.

    Soon enough, the car slowed before a gatehouse guarding the entrance to a spacious compound. As the automated sequence played out, their vehicle was scanned. Officer Bailey retrieved a small card from his pocket, feeding it into a slot in the car''s interface. The gate opened, and they drove into an expansive parking lot designated for VIP visitors and law enforcement personnel.

    In front of them stood the formidable Institute, the architectural marvel of the compound. The structure was a multistory complex, housing one of the largest database centers in the metropolis. Serena always found the building eerily monolithic, especially with its sweeping arches and dominant facade. The constant presence of high-tech security only reinforced its intimidating aura.

    "It''s not too late to fake a stomachache," Serena said, mostly to herself, as she gazed out of the window.

    Neither of her guards laughed.

    Soon, the car slowed to a halt in front of the Institute, and the trio stepped out into the misty evening, the rain having eased into a gentle drizzle.

    Serena inhaled the humid air, hoping it might calm her nerves. It didn''t.

    They made their way to the imposing entrance of the Institute, where the biometric scanner was ready and waiting. She made eye contact with the device, its blue light scanning her face and then turning green.

    "Access Granted," a voice chimed. "Welcome, Miss Holt."

 Chapter 15: Corporate Hero

    Passing through the security archway, the area''s central zone was next. Its high ceiling and windows offered a view of the drizzling night sky beyond. Though the design seemed a bit ostentatious for her taste, Serena had to admit there was a certain flair to it.

    Each floor Serena passed on their ascent brought back memories of her encounters with the strict Dr. Montoya Tanner and her husband. Those sessions had been a whirlwind of tests, evaluations, and a lot of scientific jargon that made Serena feel like she was part of an experiment rather than an individual seeking to do some good in the world.

    The elevator dinged, and she stepped off at her destination. They marched past the central pit where clerks and analysts plowed through mountains of paperwork at their computer stations. Always so busy. On either side of the walkway, transparent dividers allowed visitors to peer into their diligent work.

    They climbed a flight of stairs leading to the top floor, the hub of administrative offices, and their steps echoed in the hushed atmosphere.

    Then, just like that, the looming meeting awaited. Time to face the music. Again.

    "I''ll do all the talking," said an authoritarian figure, joining their path.

    His name was Vale¡ªfrom her agency¡ªand he looked the part. The man wore a black suit with a white dress shirt. No tie, though. Not today. Vale had this charming little tic of pushing his wire-rimmed glasses up, and Serena wondered how many pairs of glasses he''d broken while angry or in a hurry. Something to ask at a less formal occasion. One without a major PR disaster to deal with.

    Another day, another public embarrassment to cover. But hey, that''s what they paid him for, right?

    Vale shot her a sidelong glance. "Don''t speak unless spoken to. Nod if you understand."

    She offered a brisk nod.

    "Good," Vale turned his head away. "Let''s get this over with."

    With that, Vale led them into the meeting room, a place that seemed more like a war room than anything else, probably thanks to the massive conference table dominating the center. The surrounding viewscreens came alive with Paragon''s board members'' faces, staring down at Serena.

    Uh oh.

    Vale escorted Serena to a seat at the table, his voice carrying an unspoken order to sit, then took his position by her side.

    "Chairman and board, we come here today to resolve the recent controversy surrounding Ms. Holt''s confrontation with the wanted Super, Axion," he began, his tone neutral. "Paragon''s strategy to entrap the fugitive via public appearances in the slums has proven effective, with incidents involving Ms. Holt and Axion on the rise. However, due to the limitations of Ms. Holt''s powers and the inherent risks involved when engaging in combat with a much more powerful Super, we have yet to effect a successful capture."

    "That is putting it lightly, Mr. Vale," a stern female voice echoed through the speakers. It was Valda Vix, one of Paragon Entertainment''s directors. She had a knack for sounding like a teacher who had caught her students cheating.

    "With every clash, our public image suffers. Brand confidence is falling. Investors are retracting their support. Can''t you see our market values have reached a historic low? Your... strategies have been ineffective in mitigating our financial losses. Need I remind you that every one of these incidents continues to remind our constituents about Prime''s demise?"

    Dr. Tanner''s hologram, also projected onto one of the viewscreens, spoke up, "By now, it''s no secret that Prime''s untimely demise was not at the hands of a maniacal villain, but a supposed nobody."

    "Our name," Vix interrupted, "has become synonymous with fallen heroes. What were we thinking, parading Ms. Holt around the slums, taunting a notorious ''hero-killer''? Was anyone expecting a different outcome?"

    "To clarify," Vale interjected, his tone slightly strained, "Glimmerstrike is not an enforcer¡ª"

    "Maybe she should be," Vix''s retort was swift and sharp. "Ever since Glimmerstrike''s public debut, she''s ever only engaged in charity work, smile-and-wave sessions, and a few life-saving heroics here and there. Her only crime-fighting accolades to date have been a mere two hundred and fourteen arrests, with a paltry eighty-six percent conviction rate. A C-minus at best if we''re going by school grades. Some rising star we''ve bet upon."

    Ouch. Those were some sharp barbs. Serena bit the inside of her cheek. She really hated this board and all their money-driven talk. Every word hit like a shard of glass, especially when the woman suggested re-education. Back to school with the babies. Or, worse, joining those freakshows on the Wall.

    Oh God, I would rather eat mud.

    Another of the board members, Arnold Reinhardt, cleared his throat and spoke, "You don''t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs, so the saying goes. Valda, the aim was never to apprehend Axion¡ªnot a single hero has managed that to date¡ªbut to vilify her.

    "Not only do we need to sell Glimmerstrike to the public, we also need to sell the idea that Axion must be stopped. People needed a reason to hate her. All we''ve provided them with to date were words. What they needed were actions. Actions that show Axion is not your friendly next door neighbor. That she''s a violent, sociopathic entity."

    Serena could see the logic. Use her as bait, record Axion being Axion, and let the media turn her into the next big villain. The only problem with that? It hadn''t gone down that way. Serena could have told them that plan had been stupid from the start, but no one asked her.

    "Yes, and how did that turn out?" Dr. Tanner''s hologram shrugged. "From what I''ve seen of her recent fights, the sentiment seems to be shifting the other way. All these incidents are reminding people how... ineffective our hero has been."

    A man named Ketler spoke up next, "Serena''s good, but she''s no Prime."

    Prime¡ªthe legendary Superhero with telekinetic powers. The one who put the ''Super'' in Superheroes. The man who''d been a genuine inspiration for her. Sure, his power had been eerily similar to Axion''s, but Serena couldn''t imagine him as a heartless murderer. Or was he?The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Serena tried to look indifferent, but beneath her calm exterior, she felt a surge of irritation. Everything always circled back to Prime.

    "I''m tired of hearing about Prime!" a board member snapped. "He''s dead due to his own hubris. Don''t pretend that man was some symbol of righteousness. Just admit that everyone can now breathe easier since Axion removed that scourge from our midst. It''s hard to convince the public of how saintly his intentions were when half of them openly cheered for his demise."

    Serena could hardly believe what she was hearing. They were actually bad-mouthing a Superhero¡ªa dead one at that¡ªsomeone she had aspired to emulate, sitting in the very same room as her! She''d had her own reservations about him, of course, but now her agency seemed to be openly disrespecting the deceased icon.

    "You guys realize I''m sitting right here, right?" she finally spoke up.

    Vale''s face turned stern, and he extended a hand towards her, motioning her to be quiet. But Serena wasn''t having any of it. All the discussions, the scornful comments¡ªthey weren''t just going to get swept under the rug with another nod of her head.

    "Why don''t you drop the act and just tell me to my face how much of a disappointment I am to you?" she quipped, folding her arms across her chest.

    Tanner and Vale both looked surprised.

    "Glimmerstrike¡ª"

    But Serena wasn''t done yet.

    "Enough with the sweet-talk," she pressed, raising her voice a little. "I know you all think I''m a joke. But guess what? You picked me for this job, not the other way around. Maybe if you want me to improve, you should focus on training me better and pointing out the skills I need to work on instead of paying hundreds of people to write some long, thought-out hate comments. And believe me, the writing is always too similar for them not to be paid trolls.

    "When was the last time any of you trained someone, or did something about this mess? Instead, you''ve been wasting your time worrying about a few critical posts from a bunch of teenagers whose opinions literally do not matter at all."

    She knew she should have shut up after that, but somehow, once she started talking, the words kept flowing. Everything that had been bottled up for so long¡ªshe needed to say it now or risk exploding.

    Vale leaned over, his voice dangerously low, "Glimmerstrike. Hold your tongue. Your tone¡ª"

    Serena turned to him, her anger flaring. "So what if my tone is disrespectful? Don''t they deserve at least a little bit of what they''re dishing out?"

    "This meeting is intended for problem resolution, not whining. Behave, or you''ll be escorted out," Vale threatened.

    He then turned his attention back to the screens. "Ladies and gentlemen, let''s keep our discussion focused on facts rather than conjecture. My team is working diligently on reputation management, and we''ve identified the most influential thought leaders shaping the prevailing narrative. Our top priority is to engage with these entities. We''re striving to achieve a consensus on a unified message that aligns with our broader brand strategy."

    Tanner interjected once more, her tone acerbic, "That sounds like another way of saying you''re going to bribe them."

    "Such a crass oversimplification," Vale retorted with a sigh. "Influencer outreach, thought leader engagement, compensated product placement, strategic reputation enhancement¡ªwhatever terms you prefer. The nomenclature is hardly relevant here."

    "It''s bribing someone to shut up and say something nice," Serena quipped, drumming her fingers on the table.

    That comment earned her a slap in the face, shocking her out of her righteous indignation. Her mouth fell open as she brought a hand to her cheek, an angry mark where Vale had hit her.

    "Do not humiliate me," Vale hissed quietly, the ice in his glare promising dire consequences. "Ever."

    The other board members just watched, no one making a move to intercede or comment on the abuse that had just transpired.

    "This is a publicity meeting, not your personal bitching session," he added. Then, returning to the conference call and the viewscreens, Vale re-established his facade of composure, adjusting his glasses meticulously. "Now, if we could continue in a civilized manner, that would be appreciated."

    Serena stewed in her chair, seething at the blatant double standard.

    It was only at this point that she realized she might have gone a bit too far. Her gaze dropped to the table, and she leaned back in her chair, sulking.

    Crap... This is probably where I get fired.

    Tanner cleared her throat. "Mr. Vale, thank you. Your services for today will no longer be necessary."

    What?

    "You are hereby assigned to manage one of our newer talents," Dr. Tanner continued. "A young star by the name of Riley. Now, would you kindly see yourself out?"

    What?

    "But¡ª" Vale stammered.

    "Now, Vale," she stressed.

    Vale couldn''t find the words for his protest and eventually stumbled out of the room, seemingly crestfallen.

    "What just happened?" Serena managed to ask after a bewildered moment.

    "I apologize for Mr. Vale''s lack of proper guidance. You see, it''s hard to find quality managers nowadays; too many opportunists and not enough believers. He was better than some, but at the end of the day, a number on a paycheck matters more to him than a citizen''s dream."

    Tanner''s hologram shifted as if to emulate a sigh. "However, you are not without blame yourself. As I recall, you were explicitly instructed not to speak, yet you allowed your emotions to dominate. You knew your words would offend and inflame, and you have to live with the consequences of those choices.

    "On the other hand, I have to admit that it was refreshing to see a bit of fire from you. But keep in mind that being a Superhero isn''t all glitz and glamour. There are contractual obligations. Responsibilities. Some of them might leave a sour taste in your mouth, but that''s part of the job description, sweetheart.

    "Now, let''s start over. Hello, Ms. Holt, and thank you for attending today''s meeting. Before we begin, I would like to apologize for what transpired earlier. That was not, to my knowledge, according to protocol. Furthermore, it does not reflect our values at Paragon Entertainment. Could we consider starting this conversation anew?"

    Serena sat there, stunned for a moment. Then, she gathered her thoughts, her tone measured. "Sure."

    "Wonderful," Tanner''s holographic form seemed to lean forward, her body language suggesting the initiation of a private discussion between the two of them.

    The other board members suddenly fell silent, some leaning back in their seats or shifting their gaze to the side. It gave the impression of a scene frozen in time, like a paused video.

    "Let''s set that unpleasantness aside and address the real issues. Serena, your public profile needs serious rehabilitation. We need a boost to your ratings, and you need some allies in this. If I leave your fate to the peanut gallery, who knows what absurdities they''ll come up with next. So, listen carefully. Here''s what we''ll do."

    A glimmer of hope flickered in Serena''s eyes.

    Was Dr. Tanner¡ªher tormentor from the early days¡ªreally going to make an effort to help?

    She quickly reminded herself who she was dealing with, and that hope withered away. Tanner hadn''t earned her reputation for compassion; this sudden sympathy had to be fake.

    "What are you... suggesting?"

    "I am assigning you to work in tandem with another Superhero: Diamond Ace. The idea is for you two to work together to apprehend Axion. Your collaboration with Diamond Ace will serve two primary goals. Firstly, to improve your own capabilities. Secondly, to establish a unified front against Axion. And who better to join the campaign against our hero-killer than a prior associate of Prime himself. That should counter the negative optics."

 Chapter 16: Dynamic Duo

    Serena checked her makeup and tousled her platinum blonde hair for the hundredth time, then studied her reflection in her locker mirror. A smile, a wink, and a small sigh followed.

    Showtime.

    She walked out of the locker room, dressed in a professional attire, looking more like an assistant than a hero. She made her way down the corridors and stood in front of a large door, the nameplate reading "Diamond Ace." Taking a moment to steel her nerves, she finally pushed open the door and entered.

    Inside, a sleek office greeted her. Large windows overlooked the cityscape below, and in the center of the room was the striking figure of Luke Strickland, or Diamond Ace, as he was better known.

    He was a handsome man, tall, with short brown hair and a face that seemed carved from marble. He wore a crisp black suit and a blue tie that complemented his hazel eyes. But his gaze held a coldness that was unnerving.

    At the moment, he was seated behind his desk, engrossed in the contents of a thick dossier, its cover marked ''Top Secret''.

    Serena introduced herself, feeling a bit out of place. "Hi, I''m¡ª"

    "Serena Holt," Luke cut her off, not even bothering to look up from his paperwork. His tone was curt and dismissive, making her feel even more uncomfortable. "Yes, I''ve been briefed."

    Taken aback by his abruptness, she tried again. "Yes, that''s me. But I''m also known as¡ª"

    "Glimmerstrike. I know who you are. Everyone knows who you are," Luke interrupted her again, his voice flat.

    Serena''s confidence faltered under his brusque attitude.

    What is wrong with this guy?

    After an uncomfortable pause, Luke finally looked up, fixing her with an unamused stare. "Why is Paragon''s bumbling ing¨¦nue in my office?"

    Serena frowned at the insult but chose not to dignify it with a response. Instead, she said, "Dr. Montoya Tanner, from Paragon Entertainment, said we''re supposed to work together."

    He sighed deeply, his brow furrowing as he closed the dossier and put it aside.

    "Did she now?" he asked, sounding less than enthusiastic.

    He then turned his chair and walked to the large windows that offered a panoramic view of the bustling cityscape below. For a moment, he simply looked out, hands clasped behind his back, a pensive look on his face. Serena stood awkwardly, unsure of what to do or say next.

    "The agency is trying to play matchmaker, it seems," Luke finally broke the silence, his back still turned to her. "But let''s face it, Serena. You''re not exactly what I need or want."

    "What?" Serena blurted out, taken aback by the harsh words.

    Luke didn''t even acknowledge her, continuing as if she hadn''t spoken at all. "Your powers are flashy, sure, and your publicity is impressive, but you''re not a fighter. You''re not a tactician. You''re not even particularly clever. What could I possibly gain from teaming up with you?"

    She opened her mouth, a retort on the tip of her tongue, but she caught herself and held back. Angering him wasn''t going to help. Besides, in a strange way, his bluntness was almost refreshing after the constant doublespeak from the agency and her manager.

    "Look, I understand that we''re in different leagues," Serena started, keeping her voice steady. "I''m not deluding myself. But that doesn''t mean we can''t work together. We''re both superheroes. We have the same goal. We could... I don''t know, brainstorm or something. We have to try, at least."

    Luke''s scoff was audible. "You''re missing the point, Serena. The issue is not that we''re in different leagues. The issue is that I''m the star player, and you''re the mascot. How could the mascot ever contribute to the game?"

    Serena''s eyes widened at the comparison. Did he really just call her a mascot?

    "Excuse me?" she shot back, her temper rising. "Did you just call me a mascot?"

    Luke shrugged, indifferent to her reaction. "I''m just stating the obvious. Your role is to entertain, not to perform. You''re not cut from the same cloth as the rest of us. You''re here to sell merchandise and make kids cheer, not to save the world. You''re a glorified celebrity, Serena. Nothing more."

    "I''m not a mascot," Serena argued, her frustration building. "I''ve trained just like everyone else. I''ve fought, I''ve saved lives. I''m a hero, just like you."

    "Are you, though?" Luke turned to face her, his eyes meeting hers. There was a challenge in his gaze, a hint of a dare. "When was the last time you went toe-to-toe with a real threat? When was the last time you faced a situation that genuinely tested your limits? Or have you spent the last couple of years sipping champagne at galas, signing autographs for screaming fans, and pretending that you''re a hero?"

    She clenched her fists at her sides, trying to keep her composure. But a part of her¡ªthe part that had been stifled and muted for years¡ªwas screaming to be heard. She felt the urge to lash out, to show him he was wrong, that she was more than a pretty face, but she held back. She wasn''t going to let him bait her.

    "I''m not pretending," she said firmly, holding his gaze. "I''ve done things, saved people. Maybe I''m not as experienced as you are, but that doesn''t make me any less of a hero."

    "Really?" he arched an eyebrow, stepping closer to her. "Then why is it that every time you cross paths with Axion, she beats you black and blue? Why is it that the media has dubbed you ''Axion''s Punching Bag''? Why is it that no matter what you do, you can''t seem to outsmart her, outmaneuver her, or even match her strength?"

    "That''s... that''s," Serena faltered, his words hitting a raw nerve. She wanted to deny it, to find some excuse or justification, but she couldn''t. He was right, and a part of her hated that. "I just¡ªI just haven''t found the right strategy yet. She''s strong, but she''s not unbeatable."

    "Strategy?" Luke laughed, the sound devoid of any genuine amusement. "You really think it''s a lack of strategy that''s holding you back? Serena, open your eyes. You''re in over your head. You''re not ready to face the big leagues, and yet here you are, thinking you can play in them."

    His words were like a slap in the face, but she refused to let him see how much they stung. Instead, she lifted her chin and met his gaze head-on.

    "So what''s your brilliant plan?" she retorted, her voice icy. "Stand here and insult me? Because that''s really productive."

    He let out another humorless laugh. "Oh, you''d love that, wouldn''t you? For me to come up with a plan, do all the work, and then swoop in at the last minute to take the credit. Is that how you managed to get your position? By leeching off the hard work of others?"

    "That''s not¡ª"

    "Not what?" Luke interrupted, his voice rising. "Not true? You don''t think I''ve done my research? You don''t think I know all about the skeletons in your closet, Serena? Or should I say, the favors you called in to get to where you are today?"

    "What are you talking about?" Serena''s face paled, but she kept her expression neutral.

    Everything she did to get where she was, was because she worked hard for it. The sacrifices, the compromises. She earned her spot at the top fair and square.

    "Don''t play dumb with me. You''re just another entitled brat who got a free ride because of who you know," Luke snapped, turning his back on her and walking to his desk.

    Serena stared back at him, her eyes narrowing. "How dare you! I worked my ass off to get where I am. I sacrificed everything¡ªmy privacy, my relationships, my entire life¡ªto be a hero. And I won''t let some egomaniac with a god complex slander my name like that!"

    "Oh, is that so?" Luke sneered, reaching for a file on his desk. He pulled out a stack of papers and tossed them at her feet. "Then explain this. Explain how someone with your mediocre performance in training, your abysmal test scores, and your complete lack of combat experience managed to secure the top spot in the agency. How did you do it, Serena? With your sparkling personality? With your charming wit and your dazzling smile?"

    What the hell was he talking about? Sure her performance metrics during her training period didn''t exactly light the world on fire, but they weren''t the worst either. She passed the evaluations, got her license, and then kept putting in the work after that. Didn''t she?

    She reached down, picked up the papers, and skimmed through them.

    No... This can''t be right. These numbers were faked. Her metrics weren''t mediocre, they were downright abysmal.

    Test Subject: S. Holt, Age: 18, Sex: Female

    Evaluation:

    - Tactical Awareness: Poor

    - Threat Assessment: Below Average

    - Critical Thinking: Below Average

    - Social Intelligence: Mediocre

    - Combat Skills: Poor

    - Power Control: Below Average

    - Physical Fitness: Mediocre

    - Leadership: Poor

    - Mental Resilience: Mediocre

    - Decision-Making: Mediocre

    - Adaptability: Below Average

    - Situational Awareness: Poor

    - Overall Heroic Aptitude: Unsuitable

    Her breath caught in her throat, and she felt the blood drain from her face. "These aren''t my scores. I never¡ªI would never¡ª"Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    "Would never what?" Luke snapped, cutting her off. "Would never lie? Would never cheat? Because these papers tell a different story, Serena. They paint a picture of someone who''s in way over her head, who''s playing at being a hero when she should be a mascot."

    No, seriously. These weren''t the scores she remembered. These weren''t even the scores Dr. Tanner printed out and showed her back in the day. Even now, she has that sheet of paper framed back at her apartment.

    What the hell was going on? Someone had to have switched out the paperwork.

    Was someone trying to frame her¡ªwait, aside from Dr. Tanner and the other head honchos at the Institute, no one else would even have access to these things. Except...

    "Vale," she murmured, her eyes widening in realization.

    "What?" Luke asked, taken aback.

    "Vale, my manager, or well, ex-manager, I guess," she explained, her voice barely more than a whisper. "He must have switched the scores. He''s always trying to control everything in my life, dictating what I can and can''t do. He got demoted a few days ago because I''ve had enough of his bullshit. He must''ve done this as a final ''fuck you'' on his way out."

    Luke stared at her incredulously. "You seriously expect me to believe that your manager forged your test scores and swapped them out just to spite you?"

    "I have a physical copy of my test score at home. I know for a fact these aren''t mine. Even if you don''t believe me, we can call Dr. Tanner right now and she''ll sort this mess out."

    For once, she was happy that that sadistic woman existed. Dr. Tanner''s memory was practically photographic. If anyone would remember, she would.

    Luke looked at her skeptically but eventually caved in. "Fine. I''ll give her a call. But if I find out you''re lying, you''re done. I''ll make sure everyone knows you''re a fraud, and I''ll personally see to it that your career as a superhero is over."

    Serena nodded, swallowing hard. "I understand."

    She sat in tense silence as Luke placed the call to Dr. Tanner. After a few minutes of terse conversation, Luke ended the call and turned back to Serena.

    "Well, it seems that your scores were indeed falsified," he admitted, pinching the bridge of his nose. "It''s a security issue. We''ll have to investigate how this breach occurred. Tanner claims your actual scores, while still lacking, were much higher than the papers insinuate."

    Serena sighed, a wave of relief washing over her. "Thank god. I knew I wasn''t that bad."

    "Still bad, but not that bad," Luke admitted grudgingly. "Listen, I won''t apologize for what was said here today. You''re still a novice. But I will say that I was wrong to accuse you of falsifying your test results."

    "Thanks, I guess," Serena muttered, still feeling a bit shaken by the whole ordeal.

    "Here''s what''s going to happen," Luke continued, his tone brisk. "You''re going to put in the work. I''m talking intensive training, daily drills, combat simulations¡ªthe works. I''ll be your mentor, your trainer, and your worst nightmare until you''re up to snuff. And if you can''t keep up, if you fall behind or show even the slightest hint of weakness, you''re out. Understood?"

    Serena stared at him, her eyes wide. "Seriously?"

    "I''m not known for joking around," Luke said, his face impassive. "You have one chance to prove to me that you''re more than just a mascot. And believe me, I''m not expecting much. So don''t let me down."

    She wanted to refuse, but there was no room for argument. It was either agree to his terms or give up on her career as a superhero.

    "Okay," she finally said, her voice barely audible. "I''ll do it."

    He nodded, satisfied. "Good. Be at the training facility at 5 a.m. sharp tomorrow morning. And don''t be late."

    And with that, he dismissed her, turning back to his paperwork. Serena slowly walked out of the room, her head still spinning from the encounter. As the door shut behind her, she couldn''t help but feel like she''d just made a deal with the devil.

    "Okay, that went well."

    <hr>

    <blockquote>

    "The Class A hero, Diamond Ace, known for his exemplary combat prowess and strong moral values, was commissioned to subdue the slum''s rogue metahuman, Axion. In a display of camaraderie, Paragon Entertainment has teamed up Diamond Ace with their star superhero Glimmerstrike in their ongoing pursuit of this notorious Supervillain."

    "Axion''s killing of the late legendary Superhero, Prime, is widely perceived as an act of terrorism by the public. Our city''s patrons question the Metropolitan Police Department''s lackadaisical response and hold our community leaders accountable for allowing her actions to go unchecked in our city''s derelict sector."

    "In a live stream hosted by Diamond Ace yesterday, he openly declared, ''This lawless Supervillain shall not be left to her own devices any longer. Both Glimmerstrike and I will no longer stand by as she roams the slums with impunity. With a shared spirit, we now step in to restore justice and reassert the rule of law. No matter where you lurk in this city, nobody is beyond our reach.''"

    "In the announcement, Paragon Entertainment urged the public not to engage in any activity that could endanger their lives or the lives of others and emphasized the importance of letting Diamond Ace and Glimmerstrike handle the situation. Glimmerstrike and Diamond Ace intend to post additional updates to their live channels detailing their progress, and have assured the public that the search for Axion is well underway. Viewership and support for both heroines have risen significantly following the announcement¡ª"

    </blockquote>

    Tweak paused the streaming video on her monitor and glanced over at Fii. "All I''m saying is they''re ramping things up a notch, Fifi. Now, you''ve got not one, but two big-name Supers gunning for your ass."

    Fii groaned as she sank deeper into the couch. "Yeah, because it was just getting too peaceful around here."

    The mention of the upcoming double trouble evoked a deep sigh from her, prompting a playful chuckle from Tweak. "You really know how to attract all the right attention, don''t ya?"

    "Right?" Fii retorted sarcastically. "First Glimmerstrike, and now this Diamond Ace person? I don''t want to fight other Supers. I don''t want this to end up like it did with Prime."

    "I hear you, girl. But on the bright side..." Tweak pointed at the news article on the monitor, "They''re making you sound like a total badass."

    Fii scoffed at the praise. "I''d much rather they didn''t call me a ''Supervillain.'' It''s not like I''m running around doing bad things."

    "They just have to make you out to be the villain. A rogue Super not under corporate control or registered with the city is a threat in their eyes."

    "Well, they''ve got some seriously screwed up priorities."

    "There''s a lot to unpack when it comes to the relationship between superheroes and the authorities, but they''re on a mission to paint you as evil and them as righteous. The best strategy against that is to keep doing what you''re doing and show the world that you''re the good guy. Hero. Whatever." Tweak gestured dramatically with her hands, adding a theatrical flair.

    A smirk played on Fii''s lips. "Says the anarchist who would probably be cheering at a headline reading, ''Massive Riot Engulfs Metropolis.''"

    Tweak slapped a palm to her chest in faux indignation. "Anarchist? Me? Now, hold on. I might have a little anarchist inside me, but not for the sake of chaos. I want a world without corporate fat cats, exploitation, or systems that profit from injustice. Is that too much to ask?"

    Fii chuckled. "You know I''m just kidding."

    She lifted herself from the couch and moved behind Tweak, who was comfortably seated in a worn leather chair at her computer station. She gently rested her hands on Tweak''s shoulders, giving them a reassuring squeeze.

    Tweak tilted her head back to look up at her. "Aw, I know, Fifi. Just bustin'' your chops."

    Leaning over, Fii scanned the myriad of monitors sprawled across Tweak''s desk. "What have you been up to while I was out?"

    "Oh, you know, the usual stuff a sidekick does." Tweak clicked on a minimized window, unveiling a message board ablaze with comments. "Not everyone is buying into the news channels'' propaganda, but that''s nothing new. Most of the forums are torn in half. But on the upside, you''ve definitely got a passionate fanbase rallying behind you."

    With a flourish, Tweak opened various forum topics in the background, each boasting countless threads and comments. The majority of them were named something like ''#TeamHero'' or ''#Justice4Axion.''

    "Most of your fans are trying to reverse the narrative. There''s a hashtag campaign in full swing. The attention isn''t as huge as what Paragon''s heroines have going on, but there''s still enough to generate a nice buzz."

    Fii raised a brow. "Wait, why are people there siding with me?"

    "Because apparently, Prime wasn''t exactly as heroic as the corporations tried to make him out to be. The conspiracy theorists are out in droves, and they''re all pretty active online. Look." Tweak turned back to the message board.

    "See that user right there? ''Lonelyowl666?'' That guy is a huge fan of yours, Fifi. Here, check out what he''s posting," Tweak suggested. She then zoomed in on the user''s thread.

    "A lot of what Prime did never sat well with me. He claimed to be a protector of the innocent, yet he took it upon himself to judge, jury, and execute anyone he deemed ''unworthy.'' Axion gave him a taste of his own medicine, and good on her."

    "He wasn''t the pinnacle of justice," read another. "We all remember that story. Someone calling herself Blue Impulse used to run with him. Their last days together weren''t pretty."

    "Prime was no saint. If it wasn''t for this ''Axion'' character, he would still be out there playing judge, jury, and executioner," a third user replied.

    "Been wanting this guy dead ever since he killed my cousin."

    Tweak glanced back at Fii. "There are dozens of these little rants," she said. "Those are just some of the highlights. Believe it or not, there are actually some pretty credible sources on this thread too. Look."

    "Prime''s policy wasn''t law and order," wrote another. "It was intimidation, control, and submission. Those who opposed him were often found dead with their bodies mangled or ripped apart. He was a tyrant. Only a coward hides behind anonymity."

    "That last one is a military veteran," Tweak added. "Or so he says. All those little thumbs-ups and hearts are other people who agree with him."

    Fii grimaced, the memories of her encounter with Prime flashing vividly through her mind. "They''re right about Prime, of course, but I''m not too thrilled about all this talk of... well, killing."

    "Yeah, it''s a bit, uh, intense," Tweak acknowledged with a grimace, scrolling further. "Here, look. Another big thread. The author is an investigative journalist who''s trying to track down the Metropolis'' darkest secrets. Or maybe they''re just pretending to be one; who knows? Either way, you''re trending like hotcakes."

    Fii shook her head. "I don''t know, Tweak. It''s all just too... I don''t even know how to describe it. Too much? It makes me uncomfortable."

    Tweak patted Fii''s hand. "Not surprising, honestly. After that initial confrontation between you and Glimmerstrike, I did some digging, and it turns out that quite a few people are comparing the situation between you and Prime to what''s happening between you and Glimmerstrike."

    "I just want Glimmerstrike to leave me alone, not dead. Heck, I''ll even shake her hand if she does."

    Tweak shrugged. "I can see how there are some similarities, but the fact that people are even debating this is a good sign. It means they''re asking questions, and that''s a start."

    Fii took a deep breath. "So, what now?"

    "We carry on, I guess? It looks like those hero chicks are determined to bring you down, so I''ll do my best to keep tabs on them while you focus on the whole ''being a Superhero'' thing. It''s hard to say exactly where they''ll turn up. Those corporate types keep their plans pretty tight-lipped, but I''ll let you know as soon as something pops up on my radar."

    Fii rubbed her forehead wearily. "It''s just that... I don''t want to fight them, but it seems like that''s exactly what they''re coming for."

    "Just do your thing," Tweak said. "Fight for what''s right, help those in need, and show them you''re the good guy in all of this. Don''t give them any reasons to go after you. Well, more than they already have, anyway. And if it does come to a fight, be a badass about it. I mean, if you had no problems kicking Prime''s ass, then those corporate goons shouldn''t be an issue, right?"

    "I got really lucky back then," Fii admitted, the weight of memory heavy upon her. "He underestimated me and didn''t expect my powers to work in the way they did. If I hadn''t caught him off guard, things might not have turned out so well."

    Tweak shrugged. "Don''t undersell yourself, girl. You did what you had to do, and you came out on top. That counts for something."

    "I suppose you''re right, but it''s still nerve-wracking."

    "It''ll all work out, Fifi," Tweak reassured her. "For now, just focus on doing what you do best."

    "Fair enough," Fii conceded. "Thanks, Tweak."

    "Anytime, babe," she said as she rotated back to her computer screens. "And on that note, why don''t you go grab us some drinks. My throat''s dry as hell."

 Chapter 17: Codes of Conduct

    Gangs that have been around long enough were, ironically, some of the biggest advocates for order in the slums. As the saying goes, if you want to know how to build a system, ask someone who''s good at breaking it. They were a distasteful necessity, as far as Fii was concerned.

    However, she was perfectly content with leaving them to their devices as long as they kept to themselves and didn''t cause trouble for people outside their ranks. It was the young, ambitious ones¡ªthe ones with something to prove¡ªwho caused the most problems.

    And right now, two such gangs were having a not-so-friendly turf dispute. One of them had a reputation for being a little too trigger-happy for her liking.

    The gunfire echoed sharply through the slums, sending Fii running towards the sound, her shoes pounding against the uneven pavement. As she rounded a corner, she skidded to a halt, taking in the scene before her.

    Two rival gangs squared off against each other in the middle of the street. A dozen members on either side, all armed with makeshift guns and other crude weapons. One gang wore neon pink bandanas while the other sported blue. Already, a few bodies lay crumpled on the ground, blood pooling beneath them.

    Fii''s eyes narrowed as she noticed a group of kids huddled behind a dumpster, tears streaking their dirty faces. They were clearly caught in the crossfire, and it was only a matter of time before a stray bullet found them.

    She wasted no time and extended her power to envelope all of the gang members and their weapons in a field of gravity that pressed them to the ground, rendering them immobile. She didn''t use enough force to hurt them, just enough to keep them from moving.

    "What the¡ª?" one of the gangsters grunted, trying to lift his head off the ground. "I can''t move!"

    "What''s going on?" another yelled, his voice strained with panic.

    Fii strode into the middle of the street, her eyes hard and cold. "That''s far enough," she barked, her voice carrying across the now-quiet street. "Anyone moves, I break their legs. Got it?"

    The gangsters muttered and cursed, but no one dared to defy her.

    "Now, you all are gonna sit tight and behave," Fii continued, turning her attention to the terrified children hiding behind the dumpster. "You kids okay? You hurt?"

    The kids shook their heads, sniffling as they peered out from their hiding spot.

    "Good," Fii said, offering them a small, reassuring smile. "I want you to go straight home, okay? No stopping, no playing around. Just go. Now."

    The kids nodded, wiping their eyes, and quickly scampered off, disappearing down a nearby alleyway. Fii watched them go before turning her attention back to the pinned gangsters. There were already a few dead, but there was nothing she could do about that now. The only thing she could do was prevent more senseless violence.

    She hoisted their guns into the air, clumping them together in a metal sphere and compressing them down to a single, solid ball of scrap. With a flick of her hand, she sent the ball hurtling into a nearby trash heap.

    "Now, as for the rest of you," Fii said, addressing the gangsters once more.

    They all looked closer to her age, late teens and early twenties at the latest. They weren''t wearing any gang emblems or insignias she recognized, so it was likely they were just a small, local group fighting over their little piece of turf. The way their eyes darted from her to each other showed her just how inexperienced they were.

    Fii crouched down and met the neon pink gang leader''s eyes. He was a lanky young man with a shaved head and a scar running across his left cheek. He glared back at her defiantly.

    "This is our turf!" he spat, struggling against the force that held him down. "These bastards think they can just muscle in on our territory? We gotta defend what''s ours!"

    Fii looked at him flatly. "And what, exactly, do you ''own'' here? This neighborhood is home to families, people who have to deal with shitheads like you making their lives miserable. What do you ''own'' here, exactly? The garbage? The rats? A few shabby buildings and alleyways? Get real."

    She leaned in closer, her voice low and dangerous. "You''re probably older than me, so you should know our rules better. You just broke three of them. One: you can''t claim a family neighborhood as your turf. Two: you don''t fight in a family neighborhood, especially with guns. And three: if kids are involved, you back the fuck down. Did you really think you could get away with this?"

    The gangster opened his mouth to respond, but Fii didn''t let him.

    "Save it," she growled, standing up and looking down at him with disdain. "You''re all lucky I was the one who showed up. If it had been one of the more established gangs, they would have put bullets in your heads and left you to rot. They don''t like upstarts messing with the balance of things."

    She extended her power again, lifting them all off the ground, including the dead. The gangsters cried out in surprise and fear as they were suspended in mid-air.

    "But unlucky for you, I''m not lenient enough to let you go without any repercussions. Two out of the three rules you broke earned you a spot before a council. That''s the way this works. I''ll just be sending you there myself. It''ll be a nice, scenic trip through the sky, don''t worry. And if you struggle too much, I''ll drop you and let you splatter on the ground. Got it?"

    The gangsters remained silent, fear written plainly on their faces.

    "Good," Fii said, nodding in satisfaction. "Now, let''s get going."

    With a graceful leap, Fii launched herself into the air, dragging the group of gangsters with her, their forms outlined against the sky like a string of ghastly balloons. She headed towards the outskirts of the slums, where the older and more powerful gangs held court.

    As she flew over the rooftops, Fii''s thoughts turned dark. She knew what fate awaited these wannabe gangsters, and while she didn''t relish it, she couldn''t afford to be too soft. The slums had their own rules, their own way of dealing with those who threatened the delicate balance of survival.

    The established gangs weren''t necessarily "good," but they played their part in maintaining order. It was an unspoken agreement, a contract between the desperate and the dangerous. You stayed in line, followed the rules, and you could carve out a niche for yourself in the madness. You broke those rules, and you''d find yourself on a one-way trip to a very unpleasant end.

    Fii knew this all too well, and that''s why she had to enforce the rules, even if she didn''t always agree with them. It was the only way to keep the slums from devouring themselves from the inside out. Besides, she could have easily killed them, but she was giving them a chance.

    A chance they didn''t deserve, but a chance nonetheless.

    From the corner of her eye, she spotted the silhouette of that sparkling pain-in-the-ass again. Glimmerstrike. She was following at a distance, her drones buzzing around her, recording everything.

    Fii sighed inwardly. It never ends, does it?

    Glimmerstrike was keeping her distance for the time being. Probably didn''t want to start anything while she was handling these idiots, or maybe she just wanted to keep filming from a safe distance.

    "Great, a celebrity stalker," Fii muttered, shaking her head in annoyance. "Just what I needed."

    She needed to deal with her first. Having an actual metropolis Super following her into the den of the big gangs? No way. That was just asking for trouble, and not just from them¡ªfrom her too.

    "Hey sparkles," she called out to her, waving a hand in the air. "Mind telling me what you''re doing here?"

    Glimmerstrike leaped from her hard-light platform, a second forming below her to break her fall. She landed gracefully atop a nearby building, her drones swirling around her. "Just documenting the plight of the poor, downtrodden citizens of the slums," she said with a smirk. "You know, for the good of the public."

    Fii rolled her eyes. "Cut the crap. You''re just looking to exploit our suffering to make a quick Tink. It''s disgusting."

    "Exploit?" Glimmerstrike laughed. "Please. I''m providing a service. The people have a right to know what''s going on here. Besides, I''m sure some of that sweet, sweet sympathy will trickle down to your neck of the woods. And what''s a ''tink'' anyways?"

    "Yeah, right. All the way to the bottom, where it''ll be too late and too little to do us any good," Fii shot back. "Now, how about you make yourself useful and stop following me around like a lost puppy? I''m in the middle of something important."If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    Glimmerstrike raised an eyebrow, looking pointedly at the group of gangsters still floating behind Fii. "Oh, this? This is important? I thought you were just taking out the trash."

    "Listen, you don''t know how things work around here," Fii said firmly. "So either help or get out of my way. And get that camera out of my face."

    Glimmerstrike smirked, nodding to one of her drones. It zoomed in closer to Fii, its camera lens whirring. "Make me."

    Fii''s eyes narrowed. "Don''t test me."

    Glimmerstrike''s smile widened. "Oh, I''m testing you. And I think you''re failing." She snapped her fingers, and the drone flew even closer, practically in Fii''s face.

    Fii clenched her jaw, her anger rising. This Super was really asking for it.

    "I''m not gonna tell you again," Fii warned, her voice low and dangerous. "Back off."

    Glimmerstrike laughed, the sound grating on Fii''s nerves. "Or what? You''ll drop these guys?" She gestured to the floating gangsters. "Go ahead, I dare you."

    Fii took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. Getting angry wouldn''t solve anything. "You don''t understand. These guys need to stand before a council. It''s how things are done here."

    "A council?"

    If this bitch was gonna keep following her, she might as well know the whole story. But since going to the actual council was out of the question, going to a smaller community council would have to do.

    "Yes. If you want to follow me that badly, then come with me. I''ll show you how things are done in the slums."

    Fii leaped off the rooftop, floating through the air and dragging the gangsters behind her. She didn''t wait for Glimmerstrike to respond, already knowing the answer.

    After a short trip through the skies, she landed in front of a dilapidated building with a faded sign that read "Community Center" above the entrance. The windows were boarded up, and graffiti covered the walls.

    "This is where your precious council meets?" Glimmerstrike asked, raising an eyebrow as she descended on a platform of golden light. "How quaint."

    "Shut up and come on."

    Fii released the gangsters from her gravitational hold, and they stumbled to their feet. "All of you, inside."

    The gangsters hesitated, exchanging nervous glances.

    Fii''s patience was wearing thin. She cracked her knuckles, giving them a threatening glare. "Now."

    Reluctantly, the gangsters trudged through the front door, followed by Fii and Glimmerstrike.

    The interior of the community center was just as shabby as the outside. The floor was littered with debris, and the walls were cracked and peeling. In the center of the room, a group of older residents sat around a large mahjong table, playing a game.

    One of the players, a woman in her seventies with graying hair and a stern expression, looked up as Fii entered. "Well, well, well, look what the cat dragged in."

    "Hey, Grandma Ping," Fii greeted her with a nod. "How''s the game going?"

    "Oh, you know," Grandma Ping chuckled. "Beating these old codgers within an inch of their lives, as usual." She turned her attention to the group of gangsters. "And what do we have here?"

    "Rule breakers," Fii said simply, crossing her arms. "Thought they''d take over a family neighborhood, started shooting at each other when they fought back, and nearly hurt some kids. I was gonna take them to a council with the Big Four, but then sparkles over there," she jerked a thumb at Glimmerstrike, "started following me around. So I thought I''d bring them here instead, have you guys pass judgment."

    Glimmerstrike''s eyes narrowed. "You''re leaving their fates in the hands of a bunch of old folks?"

    Grandma Ping slammed a palm on the table, causing the mahjong tiles to jump. "Who are you calling old, you brat?"

    Glimmerstrike raised her hands defensively. "Hey, I''m just saying¡ª"

    Fii interrupted her, addressing the group at the table. "So, what''s the call?"

    An old man with a long, white beard named Lao Hu spoke up. "They broke the rules, they pay the price." He paused, looking at Fii. "How much damage did they cause?"

    "A lot," Fii replied. "They shot the place up pretty bad. Killed at least three of each other, scared a bunch of kids half to death, and just generally made a mess of things."

    Lao Hu nodded sagely, stroking his beard. "Hmm. Well, normally we''d send a few out to check the damage, see what''s what, but since you''re the one who brought them in, I think we can skip that part. We''ll have someone look at it later, but I don''t think you''d exaggerate the damage."

    Fii nodded. "I wouldn''t. I don''t want these shitstains to get away with anything."

    Grandma Ping harrumphed. "Then it''s settled." She pointed at the gangsters. "You''re going to work off the damage you caused. You''ll fix what you broke, clean up the mess, and help out in the area until we''re satisfied. If you behave, we''ll let you go after that. If you don''t, well..." She trailed off, letting the threat hang in the air.

    One of the gangsters opened his mouth to protest, but a sharp look from Grandma Ping shut him up. "You got something to say, punk?"

    He quickly shook his head, stepping back.

    "That''s what I thought."

    Another elderly council member spoke up. "You''ll be assigned a few watchers each. They''ll make sure you stick to the tasks and don''t cause any more trouble."

    Fii nodded, satisfied with the verdict. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate it."

    Glimmerstrike watched the exchange with a mixture of surprise and confusion. "You''re not going to, you know, punish them? Send them to jail?"

    "What jail?" Fii asked, incredulous. "There''s no jail here, sparkles. There''s no police, no judges, no courts. We have to make our own justice. And this is it."

    Glimmerstrike didn''t seem convinced. "But what if they do it again? What if they hurt someone next time?"

    "They won''t," Fii assured her. "Believe me. Once you''ve gone through a council like this, you don''t want to repeat the experience. Everyone knows somebody who knows somebody else. Almost everyone has a family or friends. They''ll find them, and they won''t be pleased. This isn''t some slap on the wrist, sparkles. This is them being given a chance to make it right, a chance to learn, and a chance to never screw up again."

    Grandma Ping chimed in, "And if they don''t learn, if they cause more trouble, there are... other options. But we don''t like to go there unless we have to."

    "Just tell it to her straight," another council member said. "They''ll be branded as a pariah, and everyone will know that they''re not to be trusted, helped, or even talked to. If they can''t do that, then the next step is... more permanent."

    Glimmerstrike''s eyes widened. "You mean..."

    Grandma Ping shrugged. "Exile, banishment, whatever you want to call it. They''d be driven out, never allowed to return. It''s not something we do lightly, but it''s a last resort. And trust me, most people would rather die than be banished from the slums. This is the only home they''ve ever known. Out there in the badlands, it''s almost certain death."

    Fii nodded. "That''s how it is. So don''t go thinking these guys are getting off easy. They''ve got a hard road ahead of them, but it''s better than what they deserve."

    The gangsters in question shuffled uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact with anyone. They knew they''d screwed up, and they were lucky to be getting a second chance at all.

    Grandma Ping addressed them again. "Now, you''ll be staying in the shelter down the road. We''ve got some beds set up for you there. You''ll work hard, do as you''re told, and maybe, just maybe, you''ll come out the other side better people. Got it?"

    The gangsters nodded meekly, not daring to argue.

    Lao Hu stood up, leaning on his cane. "I''ll get some of our boys to take them over." He shuffled out of the room, muttering under his breath about "damn kids" and "no respect."

    Once Lao Hu returned with some men¡ªfrom the Ironclad Legion it looked like¡ªto escort the gangsters away, Grandma Ping turned her attention back to Fii. "So, tell me about your new friend here."

    Fii sighed. "She''s not my friend. She''s a Super from the Metropolis who thinks she''s better than all of us."

    "I do not¡ª" Glimmerstrike started to protest, but Fii cut her off.

    "Please. You''re a hero of the metropolis, a Super. You''ve probably never gone hungry a day in your life. You have no idea what it''s like out here."

    Glimmerstrike fell silent, a look of anger and indignation on her face. Fii turned back to Grandma Ping. "Anyway, she''s been following me around all day, filming me with her stupid drones and getting in my way."

    "Well, that''s not very nice," Grandma Ping said, frowning at Glimmerstrike. "Why are you doing that, young lady?"

    Glimmerstrike straightened up, regaining some of her composure. "I''m just trying to show the people of the metropolis what life is really like out here. How the government has abandoned you, how you''re struggling to survive."

    Grandma Ping chuckled. "And what makes you think the people in the metropolis give a damn about us? They''ve got their shiny lives, their fancy jobs, and their Superheroes to worship. They don''t want to think about the poor, dirty folk in the slums."

    "The ratings and views seem to disagree," Glimmerstrike shot back.

    Fii rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Just keep out of my way, sparkles. I don''t need you getting underfoot and messing things up even more."

    Glimmerstrike smiled sweetly. "Oh, don''t worry about me. I can take care of myself."

    Fii snorted. "Sure you can."

    Grandma Ping chuckled again. "Well, it looks like you two have a lot to talk about. Or maybe not talk, as the case may be." She winked at Fii, who rolled her eyes in response.

    "We''ve got nothing to say to each other," Fii said flatly. "I''ve got work to do."

    With that, Fii turned and walked out of the community center, leaving Glimmerstrike behind. The Super followed after her a moment later, her drones in tow.

    Once they were outside, Fii rounded on Glimmerstrike. "So, are we gonna scrap today, or what? Let''s just get it over with."

    Glimmerstrike laughed, holding up her hands. "Woah there, tiger. I''m not looking for a fight. Not now, at least."

    Fii narrowed her eyes. "Then why the hell are you following me?"

    "Call it professional curiosity," Glimmerstrike said with a shrug. "I''m here to warn you that my audience wants a confrontation, and my sponsors demand it. But I think I''ll let this play out for a while longer. Let the anticipation build. Make it more interesting for my viewers."

    "You''re insane," Fii said, shaking her head in disbelief. "You know that, right?"

    "I prefer to think of it as ''creative marketing,''" Glimmerstrike replied with a grin. "Also, I won''t be the only one you''ll have to worry about. More supers are coming, you know. You''re public enemy number one. You should be flattered."

    Fii groaned, rubbing her temples. "Yeah, I already know. You''re teaming up with someone called Diamond Ace, right?"

    Glimmerstrike blinked in surprise. "How did you¡ª"

    "I''ve got my sources," Fii said cryptically. "And I''m not worried about your little posse. Bring it on, sparkles. I''ll take you all on."

    "Oh, I know you will," Glimmerstrike said, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "And I can''t wait to watch you try." With a flick of her wrist, Glimmerstrike summoned a platform of golden light above her and leaped onto it. She gave Fii a mocking salute. "Until we meet again, slumdog villain."

    And with that, she hopped off into the distance, her laughter echoing in the air.

    Fii watched her go with a scowl. "I hate that bitch," she muttered.

 Chapter 18: Tin Talk

    Fii returned to Tweak''s hideout, finding her exactly where she had left her; hunched over her workstation, fingers flying across the keyboard as she hacked away at who knows what.

    "Hey, Tweak," Fii called out as she approached. "I''m back."

    Tweak didn''t even look up from her screens, too engrossed in whatever she was doing. "Hey Fifi, gimme a sec. Just gotta... finish this up..."

    Fii watched in amusement as Tweak typed furiously, her eyes darting across the multiple monitors. Finally, she hit the enter key with a flourish and leaned back in her chair, letting out a sigh of relief. "Done! That should keep ''em off my back for a while. Now, what can I do for my favorite Super?"

    Fii raised an eyebrow. "Are those Circuit Breaker guys still giving you trouble?"

    Tweak shrugged. "Nothing I can''t handle. They''ve been nosing around, trying to trace my hacks, but I''m always one step ahead. It''s almost sad, really." She grinned mischievously. "I can send them on a wild goose chase whenever I want. It''s like playing cat and mouse with a bunch of blind mice."

    "I think you''d make a better mouse than a cat, Tweak."

    The redhead pouted, puffing her cheeks out. "Wha, not even a sexy cat?"

    "I can''t imagine you with fur."

    "Thanks," the redhead answered flatly.

    Fii laughed. "You know I don''t mean it like that. You''re perfect just the way you are."

    "Aww, you know how to make a girl blush, Fifi." Tweak grinned, her cheeks reddening.

    "So, about that thing you mentioned before I left..." Fii began, trying to steer the conversation back on track. "Any progress?"

    Tweak spun around in her chair, fingers flying across her keyboard. "You''re going to love this."

    A pop-up window on one of the monitors showed a stream of complicated code. Tweak clicked through a few menus and then started a new process. "Behold, my digital warhead."

    Fii looked confused. "What does it do?"

    "Ooo, I''m glad you asked. This bad boy will tear through their database like a shot of stomach cleanser at the Rusty Screw. It''ll suck up all their juicy data, scramble their system, and send it right back to me, snug and safe on my servers. They won''t even realize they''ve been wiped till it''s too late."

    "Wait, so you''re gonna use that on the Circuit Breakers? Um, isn''t that a bit... much? They might only be harassing you now, but if you hit them that hard..."

    As much as Fii admired Tweak, she had always had a tendency to go overboard when she was focused on something. It was usually a harmless quirk, but with a gang like that involved, this could escalate things. And in the slums, retaliation could mean full-blown warfare, and Tweak didn''t have a gang backing her.

    Tweak stopped typing and turned to face her. "True, but they''re already coming at me hard. It''s called... er... self-defense? Justifiable hacking? The point is, I''m sick of playing defense with them. Time for the tables to turn. Those maniacs won''t know what hit ''em. And if that doesn''t scare them off, well..." She pulled a thumb across her neck.

    Fii sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Just... be careful, okay?"

    "Careful is my middle name," Tweak said with a smirk. "Right after Danger, Deathwish, and Doom."

    Fii rolled her eyes. "I''m serious. I know you want to get back at them, but what if they find out and decide to do something, well, more direct?"

    "Maybe you''re right. Maybe my trigger finger''s getting itchy." Tweak puffed out her cheeks and huffed. "You know what? Fine, we''ll play it cool. I''ll give ''em one more chance to back off."

    She leaned forward again, her chair creaking, and started typing once more. "Just for you. I''m scaling back the code. But if they keep prodding..." A dramatic pause. "Boom." She made a small explosion with her hands.

    Fii nodded, relieved. "Sounds good to me."

    "You know, you''re not half bad in this whole ''talking people down'' business," Tweak said, winking at her.

    Fii stuck her tongue out at her. "Shut up. I know it''s lame."

    "Nah, it''s sweet." Tweak patted Fii''s cheek. "I''m touched you care about me so much. Really, I am."

    "Ugh," Fii groaned. "I just don''t want you to get hurt. Or worse, turned into a smear of red paste when some hired goon busts down your door." She paused, looking around the hideout. "Although, given how well you''ve hidden this place, I doubt they could find you even if they wanted to."

    "Ah, see, now you''re getting it." Tweak gestured at her lair. "This place? It''s a fortress, baby. A digital fortress. They could try to find me till their eyes turn inside-out. But let''s just say..." She cracked her knuckles and wiggled her fingers. "My skills make it a wee bit more complicated than that."

    Fii rolled her eyes. "Your modesty is inspiring. Truly." She grinned at Tweak. "You''re such a show-off, you know that?"

    "You love it," Tweak teased, sticking her tongue out at her. "Speaking of my place, my offer still stands. I think it''s better if you lived here with me instead of hiding out in that shoebox of yours sandwiched between two buildings. I''ve got a spare room. Wouldn''t take long to set it up."

    "Heeeeey!" Fii pouted, crossing her arms. "That''s my home you''re talking about. It might not be as flashy as this little dive of yours, but it''s mine. I earned it myself. And it''s pretty damn cozy. And my neighborhood is nice and they watch out for me, okay?"

    "All right, all right, no need to get all defensive. I''m just saying, you''re always welcome here. My door''s always open. Well, not open. More like... accessible to a select few."

    "Thanks, but I like having my own space."

    Tweak raised her hands in mock surrender. "Okay, okay, I get it. Love the nest, don''t wanna leave it." She let out an exaggerated sigh. "And here I was, looking forward to us becoming roomies. Another chance for that dream team."

    Fii ruffled Tweak''s hair, her face softening into a smile. "Thanks, really. But I like my space, and we both know you need yours. It works for us, you know?"

    Tweak responded with a cheeky grin. "Oh, just admit it. You just want a place where you and Quinn can play house without me walking in on you two doing the horizontal mambo."

    Fii''s cheeks flushed crimson. "Wha¡ªYou¡ªThat''s¡ª"

    "Right on the money?" Tweak finished, laughing. "Come on, your poker face is as solid as wet tissue paper. You''ve been dating that guy for a few months now. And here you are, with the biggest, cheesiest, lovesick grin on your face. Don''t think I don''t notice these things." She leaned back in her chair. "So... Tell me! The sex must be great, right? I''ve got to live vicariously through someone, y''know?"Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    Fii turned away, still flushed. "Oh my god, Tweak! Can we please not talk about this?" She crossed her arms, looking around the room at anything but Tweak. "Besides, you''re one to talk, Miss ''I''m too busy for relationships.'' How''s your love life going, huh?"

    "Ouch," Tweak said in mock indignation, placing a hand on her chest. "Straight for the heart, I see."

    She swiveled around in her chair, grinning. "But seriously, you can tell me if he''s any good. Inquiring minds want to know." Tweak leaned closer, nudging Fii with an elbow. "C''mon. We''re pals, right? Share the juicy details. What''s the worst that could happen?"

    Fii huffed and pushed her chair back, standing up. "I''m not having this conversation. You''re the worst."

    "Okay, okay, fine!" Tweak laughed, waving her off. "I''ll quit poking the bear. Or in this case, the bunny."

    "Good," Fii said, heading for the exit. "I''m leaving. You can live in blissful ignorance of my love life."

    Tweak made kissy faces at her as she left. "Have fun. Just remember, safe sex is the best sex!"

    Fii''s parting shot was a rude gesture as the secret door sealed behind her. Despite her annoyance, a smile played at the corners of her mouth. Tweak''s humor was relentless but never malicious, and it was moments like these that reminded her why they were such good friends.

    <hr>

    In a dimly-lit, run-down gym, Quinn stood shirtless at the center, his gloved fists raised defensively. Across from him, an instructor in a sleeveless hoodie and sweatpants assumed a similar stance. Quinn''s eyes darted around the room, taking in the worn punching bags, the fraying ring ropes, the rusting water fountain, and the flickering fluorescent lights. The smell of old sweat mingled with the dust in the air, tickling his nose.

    "Remember, don''t lock your arms when you punch. Keep a slight bend in the elbow." His instructor''s voice was gruff, yet patient. "And don''t over-extend. You''ll throw yourself off balance."

    The pair circled each other, their movements cautious yet fluid. A feint, a dodge, a swift attack. Then came the jarring impact of his fist against his opponent''s glove. Quinn winced at the sting, but there was no time to dwell on it. A swift jab caught him by surprise, snapping his head back. The follow-up cross struck him hard in the side, causing him to stumble back, gasping.

    "That''s what I mean." His instructor lowered his guard. "You over-extend, and someone quicker is going to capitalize on that opening."

    Quinn nodded, his breath heavy. "Got it. Focus on control."

    "Right. Again."

    As they resumed sparring, the gym echoed with the sound of shuffling feet and gloves hitting targets. Sweat trickled down Quinn''s brow, stinging his eyes. He blinked it away, refocusing his attention on his opponent. This time, as he threw a punch, he kept his arm slightly bent. He felt his strength channel through his fist, the impact resounding and satisfying. His opponent nodded approvingly and signaled for a break.

    "Not bad, kid," he said, removing his helmet and gloves. His face was rugged, marred by a couple of scars. "You''re coming along nicely. Still a lot to learn, but you''re improving."

    Quinn offered a tired smile. "Thanks, Russ. Means a lot." He accepted a water bottle, draining half of it in one gulp. "Sorry about the hits."

    The older man waved it off. "Part of the job. It''s not like you''re the first rookie to catch me flat-footed. Won''t be the last, either." He gave Quinn a clap on the shoulder. "How''s that new eye treating you?"

    "Pretty well," Quinn said, rubbing his scarred brow above the cyber-implant that now replaced his left eye. "Wasn''t a cheap implant, but the guy who did it worked wonders. Just hope that''ll be the only time I need to visit the Chop Shop."

    "Yeah? Doc Cavill do good work, eh?" Russ chuckled, picking up his towel from the ring ropes. He began to wipe the sweat off his forehead, revealing a glint of chrome above his hairline. "That''s where I got my skull replacement after a nasty scrap. Old Cavill patched me up good as new."

    He gestured at Quinn. "He do anything fancy with it? Like giving you enhanced vision or something?"

    "Well..." Quinn rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "I didn''t ask for it, but he threw in night vision and a zoom feature. Just a little bonus, he said." His gaze lowered, feeling a tad guilty.

    "Lucky bastard." Russ laughed. "All I got is a titanium brainpan. No fancy add-ons."

    Quinn laughed, his hand coming to rest on his left temple, gently tracing the scar that curved down his cheek. "Yeah, lucky indeed."

    Russ''s laughter faded. "That reminds me. Speaking of being lucky... How''s that girl of yours? What''s her name again?"

    "Fii," Quinn replied, a warm smile spreading across his face. "She''s doing great."

    "That''s the one. Can''t believe a guy like you managed to land a girl like that," Russ said, grinning. "I hear she took out that Super called Prime and brought most of the gangs in the slums to heel. Is that true?"

    "Yeah," Quinn said, a hint of pride in his voice. "She''s pretty incredible."

    "I bet. Still surprised you''re with her. I''d think someone like that would be out of your league."

    Quinn shrugged. "We just... mesh well together, you know? I mean, sure, sometimes I get a bit jealous. Who wouldn''t, right? Especially with her being a Super and everything."

    "But you''re still holding on to her?" Russ asked, eyebrows raised.

    Quinn chuckled. "Well, I''m a bit tenacious." He stretched, easing a kink out of his shoulder. "Guess that''s why I keep coming here to get my ass handed to me."

    "A good trait to have," Russ said, slapping Quinn''s back. "Glad to hear you guys are doing well. Reminds me of my own missus. Been a year, but I still miss her every day."

    Quinn paused. "Yeah?"

    "She was a tough lady. Ex-mercenary, you know? Ran with the Broken Hearts back in their day." Russ smiled, looking off into the distance. "She had this tattoo of a rose right across her chest, and these wicked scars that..." He trailed off, his smile turning wistful. "Ah, sorry, kid. Didn''t mean to get all sentimental on you."

    Quinn shook his head. "Nah, it''s fine. I understand. It''s nice to hear about other people''s love lives. Gives me hope for my own, you know?"

    "Aw, you kids are fine," Russ said. "Just make sure to treat her right, okay?"

    "Of course." Quinn smiled. "Wouldn''t dream of doing otherwise."

    Russ scratched his stubbled jaw. "Hmm. Hey, someone might have asked you this already, but what''s it like... er, you know?" He waved a hand suggestively. "With a Super?"

    Quinn nearly dropped his water bottle. "Wh-what?"

    "You heard me."

    "That''s a bit personal, Russ."

    "I''m just curious, man."

    "More like nosy," Quinn said, trying to keep a straight face.

    Russ chuckled. "Guilty as charged. But seriously, aren''t they five or six times stronger and tougher than us? Does that affect... things?"

    "Are you really asking me about my sex life?"

    "Come on, kid. I''ve been training you for months now. We should be past the awkward stage."

    "Really? You''ve been training me how to fight, not how to sleep with women."

    "So?" Russ shrugged. "Consider it a bonus lesson." He grinned. "I''ll throw in a few tips and tricks from my own experience if you''re willing to share. Knowledge is meant to be shared, kid."

    "I''m sure it is." Quinn hesitated. It was a bit weird to talk about his private life, but... well, Russ wasn''t completely wrong. They''d been training together for a while, and despite the man''s gruffness, he seemed to care.

    Still, some things were off-limits. "I''m not getting into specifics, all right?"

    "All right, all right. Not asking for a play-by-play, just curious about some general stuff."

    Quinn sighed, resigned to his fate. "Okay... Look, it''s a bit different, yeah. But not in a bad way, just... unexpected at first. You know?"

    "Yeah?" Russ leaned in, interest evident on his face.

    "And, uh, since we''re both... kinda new at this, we''ve been learning together. Like, what we like, what feels good, what doesn''t." He coughed, his cheeks starting to flush. "But she''s... y''know, really sweet and gentle. In fact, I have to encourage her to let loose a bit."

    Russ let out a hearty laugh. "Well, ain''t that something! Never thought I''d hear someone complain about a partner being too gentle." He clapped Quinn on the back. "But hey, if it''s not breaking you, then there''s nothing to worry about. Oh! Unless she''s the kind of girl who gets carried away and accidentally does some serious damage, if you know what I mean."

    Quinn blanched. "Once or twice, we''ve had a few... mishaps. But luckily, no real injuries. Yet."

    Russ grinned. "Damn. That''s wild. But hey, at least you''re still in one piece. If not, you might want to invest in one of those reinforced hip replacements. ''Cause I''ve heard that some of those Supers¡ª"

    Quinn raised his hands in a placating gesture. "Okay, okay, Russ. That''s enough." He felt his face burning. "I really, really don''t need to know."

    "Hey, just looking out for you, kid." Russ chuckled. "But I''ll stop. Just remember to have fun with it. You''re a young guy and she''s a Super. Enjoy the ride, kid."

    Quinn sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Right. Thanks for the... talk. It was definitely an experience."

    Russ clapped Quinn on the shoulder once more. "Anytime, kid. "Seriously though, I''m happy for you. Seems like you''ve found a good one. Keep her close. Don''t let her slip away. With the life we lead, we need all the happiness we can get. Got it?"

    "Got it," Quinn agreed with a smile. "Thanks, Russ."

 Chapter 19: Twist The Wire, Not The Truth

    Sweat dripped from Serena''s brow as her fist made contact with the punching bag for the thousandth time that morning. The sun hadn''t even risen yet, but she''d been in the training facility with Diamond Ace for hours, and she was already feeling the strain.

    Luke stood nearby, his arms crossed and his eyes cold. "You''re too slow," he barked. "You need to be faster, sharper. Do it again."

    Serena gritted her teeth and resumed her onslaught, trying to keep up with the relentless pace Luke was setting. It wasn''t just the physical exertion that was wearing her down¡ªit was his constant criticism, his never-ending stream of corrections and disapproving looks.

    As she continued to pound away at the bag, she couldn''t help but feel like she was back in her early training days, being berated by Dr. Tanner. She thought she''d left that behind, but here she was, reliving the same nightmare all over again.

    The only difference was that she was doing it by choice this time.

    "Keep your guard up!" Luke snapped as she took a break to wipe the sweat from her eyes. "You leave yourself wide open when you get tired."

    Serena bit back a retort and forced herself to focus on her footwork. She envisioned Axion''s smug face on the punching bag, and with renewed vigor, she unleashed a flurry of punches that made the bag sway and creak on its chain.

    "That''s enough," Luke finally said, his voice as sharp as ever. "Let''s move on to the obstacle course. I want to see how you handle yourself in a more dynamic environment."

    Serena nodded wearily, following him to the next area of the training facility. The obstacle course was a sprawling maze of walls, ramps, and barriers, designed to mimic the chaos of an actual combat situation.

    Luke stood at the edge of the course, his gaze sweeping over the obstacles. "This course is meant to simulate a hostage situation. Your objective is to rescue the hostages while neutralizing any threats you encounter."

    Serena took a deep breath, psyching herself up for the challenge ahead. "Got it. Let''s do this."

    Luke''s lips twisted into a grim smile. "Oh, and one more thing. I''ll be joining you on the course. Consider me an unpredictable variable."

    "What? That''s not¡ª"

    "Go!" he shouted, cutting her off mid-sentence.

    Serena cursed under her breath and took off, sprinting towards the first obstacle. She scaled a wall with surprising agility, her muscles burning from the effort. As she landed on the other side, she found herself face-to-face with a replica of a burning building.

    Without missing a beat, she charged into the flames, using her powers to create a protective shield around her. Inside, she found a group of mannequins tied to chairs¡ªher ''hostages''.

    She moved to free them when suddenly, Luke came crashing through the wall behind her. She had barely turned around before he had tackled her to the ground.

    "Not a great start. You should have sensed me coming. Your awareness needs work. A lot of work."

    Serena struggled against his grip, but he was too strong. With a grunt of frustration, she twisted her body, managing to roll him off her. They both scrambled to their feet, circling each other warily.

    Luke launched himself at her again, but this time she was ready. She enclosed him in a cube-shaped energy shield, trapping him within its confines. He slammed his fists against the barrier, but it held firm.

    Serena smirked at him as she turned back to the mannequins, using her powers to slice through their bonds. But just as she finished freeing the last hostage, Luke''s hand punched through her shield. She stumbled back in surprise as the cube shattered into motes of light.

    "Nice trick with the cage," he said, dusting himself off. "But you need to focus on sustaining your constructs. If they break that easy, they''re not going to save you in an actual fight."

    Easily?! Her energy constructs were durable enough to withstand an anti-tank rocket. How the hell did this guy have that much physical strength?

    They continued through the course, facing off against each other and the various obstacles the facility had to offer. Serena used every trick she knew to try and outsmart him, but he was always one step ahead, always finding a way to counter her moves.

    By the time they reached the end, she was exhausted. She collapsed to the ground, panting heavily, her body aching from head to toe. Luke stood over her, not even breaking a sweat.

    "Not bad," he said grudgingly. "But not good either. You''re reactive, not proactive. You''re allowing your opponents to dictate the flow of the battle. If you want to beat them, you have to force them to react to you, to be on the defensive. You need to dictate the ebb and flow of the battle, not follow it."

    Serena couldn''t even muster a response; she was too drained. Instead, she just lay there, staring up at the ceiling, wondering how the hell she was going to survive this training regimen.

    "It''s a good start," Luke said, his tone softer than it had been all morning. "We''ll build on this. Be back here tomorrow, same time. And be ready to work even harder."

    Serena groaned inwardly but nodded in response. She had no choice but to grit her teeth and bear it.

    As she limped back to the locker room, she couldn''t help but wonder if teaming up with Diamond Ace had been a mistake. But it was too late to back out now¡ªshe had signed up for this. For better or worse, she was stuck with him, and she would have to find a way to make it work.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    <hr>

    "Did you get that, Tony?"

    "Yeah, boss, I got it."

    Tony, a cameraman who was responsible for filming live streams and producing high-quality videos, was currently reviewing footage from Glimmerstrike''s most recent confrontation with Axion. He had been working with her for a few years now, and he was used to her antics and dramatics.

    "No, no, not like that," Glimmerstrike said, leaning over his shoulder. "I need it to be more dynamic, more engaging. Zoom in on her face as she''s about to attack, then cut away to me dodging her blow. Make sure the angle is just right¡ªit needs to look like she almost had me, but I was too quick for her."

    Tony sighed and made the adjustments. "Like this?"

    Glimmerstrike watched the new edit and nodded. "Perfect. That''s exactly what I needed. Now, for the part where she throws the dumpster at me¡ªmake sure you zoom in on the sparks flying off my constructs. It needs to look like I''m struggling to hold back her attacks."

    Tony couldn''t help but roll his eyes. "You were struggling, boss. She had you on the ropes half the time. The way things are going, she''ll end up killing you."

    Glimmerstrike shot him a sharp glance. "Hey, I''ve got it under control. I''m just setting the stage for my eventual victory. It''s all about the narrative, Tony. People want to see a hero''s journey¡ªthey want to see me rise to the challenge and come out victorious in the end. And that''s exactly what I''m going to give them."

    Tony sighed, his fingers moving over the keyboard. He''d heard it all before¡ªGlimmerstrike was a perfectionist, obsessed with presenting a carefully crafted image to her followers. He didn''t understand her obsession, and frankly, he didn''t care. As long as he got paid, he would do whatever she asked.

    Besides, he had to admit that the videos were popular. Millions of people watched them, and the money was rolling in. So if Glimmerstrike wanted to keep pushing herself to the brink of disaster, he''d just keep filming and editing her fights with Axion, no matter how ridiculous it all seemed.

    "How''s your training with Diamond Ace going, anyway?" Tony ventured after a while. "Is he really as tough as they say?"

    Glimmerstrike scoffed. "Tough doesn''t even begin to cover it. The guy''s a sadist. He''s been working me to the bone every day, pushing me harder and harder. I''ve been fighting Axion every other day, and then I spend my downtime getting the shit kicked out of me by him. I mean, yeah, I''ve gotten better at holding my own, and he hasn''t managed to knock me out yet, but... I don''t know. It''s like he''s preparing me for something, something more than just beating Axion. He keeps talking about how I need to be ready for anything, how I can''t afford to take anything for granted. It''s creepy."

    Tony raised an eyebrow. "Maybe he''s onto something. I mean, you saw what happened with Prime. Axion managed to take him down, and he was one of the strongest Supers around."

    Glimmerstrike shook her head. "I''m sure it was a fluke, Tony. A one-off. She got lucky, that''s all. She''ll never manage it again."

    "You sure about that, boss? What if she''s been training, too? What if she''s even stronger now?"

    "Don''t be ridiculous," Glimmerstrike snapped. "She''s just some slum rat with superpowers. She doesn''t have access to the same resources and training facilities that I do. She''s not going to catch up to me that easily."

    "Whatever you say, boss. Just don''t say I didn''t warn you."

    The pair sat in silence, watching the edited video over and over again. It was slick and polished, making Glimmerstrike look like the underdog hero fighting against overwhelming odds. It was exactly the kind of content her followers expected¡ªand it had nothing to do with reality.

    After a while, Glimmerstrike spoke up again. "Do you have anything else on her? Any more footage or info I can use?"

    Tony nodded. "Yeah, I got some stuff. Looks like she''s been pretty active lately¡ªgetting involved in turf wars between smaller gangs, rescuing people, that kind of thing." He clicked through a few files on his computer. "It''s been getting harder and harder to keep tabs on her with our drones, though. They keep getting hacked and crashing into things."

    Glimmerstrike frowned. "What do you mean?"

    "Someone from the slums managed how to hack into our drones and take them out. I''ve been flying them in to get some more footage of Axion in her element, but they always end up in a wreck."

    "How? It''s not like those slummers have access to cutting-edge tech. All they have over there are rusty old junk heaps from a century ago."

    Tony shrugged. "I don''t know, boss. But whoever''s doing it, they''re good. Really good. If I didn''t know any better, I''d swear it was someone who had worked in cyber security or espionage, but that couldn''t be it. It''s the slums, after all."

    Glimmerstrike ran a hand through her hair, clearly frustrated. "Guess she has lackeys, too. Alright, whatever. Keep trying. We need more footage of her, no matter what. If you can''t do it with drones, then figure out another way. And Tony?"

    "Yeah, boss?"

    "Watch yourself with that footage. The way you have it now, Axion looks like she''s a hero or some shit, helping people. Make it look like she''s the one causing all the problems. Edit it to make her look like a villain. Got it?"

    "Sure, boss. Whatever you say."

    With that, Glimmerstrike left the editing room, her heels clicking loudly on the tiled floor. Tony sighed and turned back to his computer, preparing to twist reality to fit Glimmerstrike''s narrative. It was what he was paid to do, after all.

    But as he began editing, his mind wandered back to when Glimmerstrike wasn''t so... desperate. When she was genuinely trying to make a difference and be a hero, rather than just putting on a show. She was so different before all this¡ªback when she wasn''t Paragon Entertainment''s puppet. Back when she wasn''t the same hollow shell.

    Now she was just a brand, a commodity to be sold to the masses, and that''s all that mattered. Tony knew he was just a cog in the machine, but sometimes, he couldn''t help but feel dirty, like he was complicit in something ugly and rotten.

    He sifted through early video footage, looking for the clips of her early heroics. Clips of her working with the police to take down some bank robbers. Clips of her helping people when the Hollowed Eagle Building lost power. Clips of her standing up to the very company that now employed her.

    It was all so different back then, and a part of him couldn''t help but wonder if there was a way to get that old Glimmerstrike back¡ªthe idealistic young hero who genuinely wanted to make a difference. But then he remembered the contract she had signed and the way the media had turned her into a celebrity. The way she had changed, becoming more concerned with her image and popularity than doing what was right.

    The way she had lost her way, bit by bit, until she became the fame-obsessed superhero he now worked for.

    Still, he clung to a small hope that maybe, just maybe, there was still a glimmer of the old Glimmerstrike left, buried beneath the layers of artifice and ego. Maybe having to train with Diamond Ace, who was practically the only superhero to refuse corporate sponsorship, would help. He was basically her opposite in that regard and a powerful Superhero in his own right. There was no telling how hard he would push her.

    If she ever came to her senses, Tony would be there to help her in whatever way he could¡ªeven if it meant putting his own career in jeopardy. After all, he knew that the real Serena would not have approved of what she had become. He still had faith in her, or at least, the person she used to be.

    Maybe I''ll finally muster the courage to ask her out, he thought wryly, knowing it was just a fantasy. Still, a small part of him held onto that hope, even if he knew the chances of it ever happening were slim. And that small hope kept him going, even as he edited the truth to fit the lie.

 Chapter 20: Patch It, Dont Pitch It

    Fii released a soft sigh as Quinn''s hands expertly worked the knots out of her back. The warm glow of her small shack cast a cozy ambiance, and the firm yet soothing pressure of his massage helped to untangle the tightness in her muscles after a day of being in the spotlight¡ªquite literally.

    A melodramatic yelp escaped her lips.

    "Ah, right there!" The tender spot he''d just found was both painful and satisfying, causing her to scrunch her shoulders in response. "My poor, poor back. So much stress today."

    "Still sore?" Quinn asked. He gently but insistently pressed his thumbs into the exact spot that gave her a jolt a few seconds ago, digging in more.

    "Nnngh... You''re great." Her voice was barely audible, muffled by the thin pillow. "Please... keep going."

    In silence, she appreciated his generous gesture and let her mind wander. After Glimmerstrike''s second attack a week after they met, she had considered swearing off rooftop chases. But that resolve didn''t last long; soon enough, she was back to her high-flying antics. Over time, she realized something. Her day felt incomplete without one of these midair ballets.

    "Mmhm..." She couldn''t help but make soft, contented noises. "Nnh..."

    Today''s encounter had been particularly exhausting. There was something about having to maintain a constant watchfulness, ready to leap away at any moment, that really taxed her body.

    Not even the gangs were so relentless. Plus, her energy was sapped by all the gravitational pushes and pulls. Her muscles always ended up stiff and sore whenever her power affected her own body, an uncomfortable side effect. Which made this post-chase massage feel all the more delightful.

    "So..." Quinn began, his tone carrying an air of mischief, "Today was another wild chase, huh? Lasted a while too. Those are usually quite short."

    "Mhm."

    "Wanna tell me about it?"

    Fii craned her neck to look at him. "Do you really want to know?"

    "I live vicariously through you," Quinn admitted with a wry chuckle. He pushed and kneaded a specific spot under her left shoulder blade, coaxing her back onto the pillow. "Eyes back front. I''m not done. And yes, tell me."

    Rolling her shoulders, Fii puffed out her cheeks. "She''s... getting better," she conceded, a hint of a whine in her voice.

    "Oh?"

    "And faster. She got close twice today. Real close."

    "How close we talkin''?" he asked, the interest in his voice as keen as his hands were on her back.

    "Really close. Too close. Don''t laugh!"

    But despite her words, a muffled chuckle reached her ears. With a playful pout, she chose to ignore it. It felt too good to be mad.

    "Think she''s... into you or something?"

    Her face turned hot. "Hey now¡ª"

    "Sounds like some thrilling rooftop dates."

    "They''re not dates! There''s nothing... thrilling about it. Well, maybe a little. But only a tiny bit! Like, an itsy-bitsy amount."

    "You sure?"

    "Yeah..." she answered, sounding more like a question than a statement. She might have given Quinn an earful then and there, but when he finally hit that one perfect spot right in the middle of her lower back, all her resolve vanished into thin air. "Ah, stop bullying me. That''s too... good..."

    "You like the bullying though," he said with a chuckle.

    "Sometimes," she admitted.

    "Every time."

    "Only when it feels like this."

    "Didn''t even deny it."

    "Shush. Keep rubbing," she ordered in her best Glimmerstrike impression.

    It was all so wrong.

    But his hands were just the right kind of wrong. As one hand worked its way up to her neck, giving those tight muscles some attention, and the other found a new knot of pressure to work on, she nearly melted into the floor. Completely unaware, she started to let out a breathy moan, as if a built-up pressure was slowly dissipating from her body.

    She''d always been sensitive to touch, and this was no different.

    "Shhh, keep it down there," he tried to hush her. "You place''s got thin walls. Your neighbors might... uh, get ideas."

    A couple more soft, short-lived moans left her throat, punctuating her otherwise stillness. Finally, she seemed to have gotten a bit more control over her voice. "Your¡ªyour fault," she mumbled back.

    "M-my bad. But keep quiet. Not that I mind, but you know, the walls."

    If the door could talk, it would certainly have stories to tell.

    But the door opened instead. Literally. It creaked and then suddenly swung open.

    A draft of cold evening air crept inside the tiny room.

    Fii yelped in surprise, using her power to push Quinn away, maybe a bit too hard. The sound of him colliding with a nearby wall mixed with the squeak of the hinges and the heavy thump of the door against the interior wall. She''d jumped to her feet and turned to face the source of the disturbance in a blink.

    When she realized it was Virgil at the doorstep, her eyes grew wide, then quickly covered her exposed body.

    Right. They''d started the massage in a rather intimate way, with her only wearing her undergarments. Her clothes were strewn all over the floor.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    With a red face, she glared at him. "V-Virgil! Ever heard of knocking?!"

    "You left the door unlocked," he responded dryly, unfazed by the scene unfolding before him. He stepped inside and shut the door behind him. "Which is dangerous. And foolish. Didn''t realize you were... busy."

    "Y-yeah, ''cause we thought no one else would come barging in like that!" She shot a glance at Quinn, who was picking himself up off the ground with a grimace. "Sorry! You okay?!"

    Virgil looked at her with a raised brow. "A backrub, I''m guessing? From the noises, I thought... Well, no matter. Consider this a lesson learned: lock your damn door."

    "Screw you! We were having a moment!" She stepped over to her clothes to pick them up and get dressed. The relaxing mood from before was well and truly shattered.

    Quinn had a dazed look on his face. He was still holding the back of his head with a wince. "I''m good, babe. No harm, no foul." Then, in a louder, more gruff voice, he added, "Hey, Virg. Uh... Haven''t heard from you in a while."

    Virgil nodded in greeting, then moved to take a seat on the floor without so much as an apology. Fii threw a shoe in his direction. He swatted it away, unfazed. She ended up rolling her eyes and rushing to put her clothes back on.

    "Find anything yet?" she asked him, her voice still slightly irritated as she struggled into her pants.

    "As a matter of fact, that''s what I''m here to discuss." He adjusted his old, worn hat. "Mind if I smoke?" A beat passed. "Ah. Right, your place." He pocketed his lighter.

    Fii finished putting on her tank top and sat down on the bed. She crossed her arms and gave Virgil a questioning look. "So?"

    Quinn sat down on a nearby chair, still rubbing the back of his head. He and Virgil exchanged a brief, knowing glance. But when Fii tried to catch his gaze, he seemed to intentionally avoid looking at her, focusing on something else in the room instead. It was odd; he wasn''t usually shy around her.

    "Yesterday, I tracked down a contact who owed me a favor," Virgil started, ignoring the lingering awkwardness in the room. "Remember the two places I mentioned that Salvatore could have brought Edith to?"

    "Yeah?"

    "Getting into the Metropolis is still a no-go, so I focused on the second place," he continued, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. "We''re gonna have to check his facility in Merraco."

    Fii''s eyebrows went up. "Isn''t that super dangerous? Did you manage to get us a ride on an airship?"

    "No. Airships to and from there have extremely tight security checks. We can''t risk it."

    Fii''s excitement dimmed a little. "So... does that mean I''ll have to fly us there while you navigate with a map or something?"

    "I couldn''t find a map of the area, and you can''t fly the entire way. There''s a reason why only heavily-armed airships make the journey. The Wyrms would rip you to shreds in no time."

    "But I can just use my power to fight them off¡ª"

    "Or, they could be faster than you and come from an angle you can''t see. There are hundreds, if not thousands, in the Dead Zone. It''s way too risky. Not to mention that I''d rather not risk you accidentally dropping me in mid-air if something happened."

    "I can just fly low though. I won''t drop you."

    "Already thought of that. I told you that I couldn''t find a map so even if we managed to not deal with a horde of wyrms, we could easily get lost."

    "Ah, so... what do we do then?"

    "The only way is to drive through the Wastes of Kurigali. They''re between here and Merraco. And you need a sand buggy if you want any chance of crossing them."

    "You got us one?" she asked, her expression brightening again.

    "About to," Virgil answered, leaning back. "Once we can snag a guide that''ll come with us."

    Uh-oh. She knew where this was headed. Her hands gripped the mattress beneath her a little tighter. "You''re not thinking of¡ª"

    "We''re gonna need to ask one of the exiles who used to live there. Someone who knows that terrain inside and out, every pit and crevasse, so we don''t run into trouble."

    Quinn blew a low whistle. "You''re gonna ask for a favor from the Kurigali exiles? Good luck."

    Fii ran a hand through her hair, sighing.

    The slums have a pretty diverse population. With each passing year, people trickled in from different parts of the country, each of them running from their own set of troubles. It was a bit of a melting pot, and everyone had to learn to live together or find a spot where their group could call home, making the best of it.

    The Kurigali have their own sector in the slums¡ªand not even the major gangs dared to mess with them. Clubs, knives, and pipe guns might intimidate a lot of folks, but they were nothing compared to what the Kurigali practiced.

    Voodoo.

    "We really gotta go ask them for help?" she asked, looking down at the floor.

    "I did say ''we'', but what I really meant was ''you''." Virgil scratched the stubble on his chin, giving her a look. "You''re one of their own."

    Fii blinked. "Wait, what?!"

    Quinn''s eyes snapped to her as well. "Really?"

    "That''s news to me!" Fii exclaimed, holding a hand to her chest. "How''d you figure?"

    "I checked with Sheri and Helix at the clinic. Your DNA test came back a little while ago. Turns out you''re a descendant of the Kurigali people." Virgil sounded almost amused by the revelation. "Well, half and half, anyway. Thought you knew."

    "No shit," Quinn remarked, eyes still on Fii.

    "I didn''t know! Seriously, I didn''t."

    "Don''t worry about it too much," Virgil waved a dismissive hand. "There''s always mixed blood in the slums. What''s important here is that you can use that connection. They might listen to you. I would just get stonewalled. I need you to ask them for a guide."

    "Seriously?"

    "Otherwise, no dice on our trip. They''re our only shot at this."

    Fii bit her lip, thinking. If this was their one shot at rescuing Edith... she couldn''t afford to hesitate.

    "Okay, okay, I can try," she relented, though her agreement came with a sigh. "Just... really don''t wanna get cursed."

    "It''s not the actual, mind your superstitions." Quinn offered a reassuring pat on her shoulder, although there was a hint of a tease in his voice.

    "It''s real! Well, kinda real... at least!" Her eyes darted between the two of them. "Have you heard about what happened when one of the Reaper Posse tried to muscle their way into their turf?! Bad stuff went down, man."

    "That was probably them using poison, not magic," Quinn countered.

    "I''m telling you, it''s real. Do you wanna get into bed with your feet sticking out of the blankets or something?! You''re asking for it!"

    "Pointy-eared superstitious half-blood," he taunted, booping her on the nose with his finger.

    Fii playfully tried to bite it.

    "Focus," Virgil interjected with a glare. "Quinn, mind keeping your hands off?"

    A twinge of red colored Quinn''s cheeks, and he murmured an embarrassed apology. He still managed to steal a kiss on Fii''s cheek, though.

    "I''m gonna... wait outside." Quinn got up with an awkward cough, heading out the door and into the alleyway.

    As soon as the door closed, Fii turned to Virgil. "Ahh, I was so relaxed... then you had to ruin it," she grumbled. But she couldn''t stay annoyed. She knew he was just looking out for her and trying to help her save Edith. That''s just who he was, and he wouldn''t apologize for his approach. "So... tomorrow?"

    He shrugged, getting up and stretching. "Sure. You don''t need to rush things with the Kurigali, though. We''re in no hurry. Quinn and I can start rigging up a sandbuggy in the meantime."

    She leaned back a bit, studying him. "Oh?"

    "A man''s gotta keep busy, and the kid needed a break from work."

    Fii let out a light laugh. "I''m sure Quinn would love spending time with you."

    "Don''t be a smart-ass," Virgil grunted, standing up and turning to leave.

    But he paused at the door, his hand resting on the handle. "About earlier..."

    Fii held her breath, looking up at him expectantly, waiting for the lecture she was sure was about to come.

    "...Lock the door next time."

    And with that, he walked out, closing the door behind him. She was left sitting there, cheeks slightly reddened, not knowing whether to laugh or groan.

    Why did he always have to get the last word?

 Chapter 21: Kurigali

    The Kurigali quarter in the slums was unlike any other place. What used to be a six-kilometer-long, two-kilometer-wide park filled with overgrown trees and wild flora had become home to the Kurigali. Unlike other groups, they hadn''t taken over existing buildings. Instead, they''d built their own village right within the park, forming a unique mini-society.

    From afar, their huts and straw roofs appeared as clusters of brown dots sprinkled among the foliage. Intricately constructed wooden bridges connected one treehouse to another, some strung between the trees, others spanning small, shallow lakes that had formed where the old park''s ponds used to be.

    Although it was technically still part of the slums, and anyone could enter the park, a clear boundary separated the Kurigali Quarter from the rest of the city.

    The entire quarter was self-sufficient. Many of the fruits and vegetables out in the markets came from here. Fii couldn''t count the times she''d seen Kurigali traders bring in produce using large wheelbarrows.

    She''d never been curious enough to go see what their quarter actually looked like, though. But standing at its border, her nerves were all abuzz. She wasn''t exactly looking forward to going in.

    As for the superstitions and rumors surrounding the Kurigali people... well, they were hard to ignore. And frankly, kind of scary.

    "Thanks for walking me this far," she said to Quinn, giving him a quick peck on the cheek.

    "Sure, no prob. Need moral support, you know? Wouldn''t want you to get spooked and bail." He laughed, then shrugged. "Hey, you''ve got superpowers. Nothin'' can take you down, right?"

    She stuck out her tongue at him. "Yeah, yeah. Powers or not, can''t fight magic. That''s how it works."

    He made a dramatic sigh, complete with a shake of his head. "Seriously? They''ve probably just got poison and psychedelics on hand to mess with people. Nothing paranormal about that. Trust me, you''ll be fine."

    Fii puffed out her cheeks. "Gimme a break! I''ll scream and run if they start getting spooky or something. Like, worst-case scenario, I just run away."

    "You''re a Super, Fii. Act like it."

    She punched his arm playfully. "Screw you."

    Quinn let out a soft chuckle. "You too. Anyway, got work with Rao today, so I gotta go. Be safe out there."

    "You know me."

    He grinned. "Yeah, that''s exactly why I said it."

    She gave him a quick hug and kiss before watching him make his way back to the Rust Market. With her hands resting on her hips, she let out a heavy sigh.

    "Here goes nothing."

    The moment she stepped into the park, a slight tingle danced across her skin. Whether it was just her anxiety playing tricks on her or a genuine energy shift in the air, she couldn''t tell. The only thing she knew for sure was that the atmosphere here was different from the rest of the slums.

    Here, the cool shade from the trees created an odd sense of isolation. Everywhere she looked, it was green upon green: the grass, the bushes, the leaves of the trees. She was glad to leave the unrelenting heat of the afternoon sun behind. It was noticeably cooler beneath the tree canopy.

    "Focus, focus." She breathed in deeply. "They''re just... nice people who want to keep to themselves. Yep. That''s all."

    The path before her, barely a trail at all, wound between tall trees and patches of overgrown bushes. With no concrete paths to follow, she had to make her way forward the best she could. Occasionally, her shoes would sink a little into the soft, moist soil beneath, prompting her to move a bit faster through those spots to avoid mud.

    It was silent here¡ªnot the comfortable, lazy quiet of an empty street but something deeper, as though even the usual city sounds were muffled and swallowed up by the trees. Every rustling leaf and snapping twig sounded incredibly loud. Fii tried to keep moving forward, hoping to come across someone, anyone, soon.

    As she ventured further in, the trail became narrower and the undergrowth denser. Leaves and twigs crunched underneath her shoes.

    "So creepy... I really don''t like this," she muttered to herself.

    She could see traces of the Kurigali''s presence in the environment: small idols carved into tree trunks, painted with intricate patterns of dark red and black, and wooden wind chimes hung from branches, their soft clinking nearly lost in the forest''s soft breeze.

    Trekking through the area was difficult. Fii had to use her gravikinesis to break through a few bushes or find her way across a couple of streams. It was like the park''s landscape was actively trying to keep her away from its heart.

    She hadn''t been nervous like this in ages¡ªnot even when she''d first encountered the gangs, or when she''d confronted Prime.

    Though, in retrospect, maybe she should''ve been more worried when she''d met Prime. She could have easily been killed that day.

    Suddenly, as she was navigating her way around a particularly thick clump of bushes, the rustling sound of leaves and snapping twigs filled her ears. Turning to where it was coming from, her eyes went wide and her throat tightened as three men emerged from the bushes. She''d found who she was looking for, alright.

    They wore loose garments woven from coarse fabric, dyed in earthen hues that blended with their surroundings. Their faces were obscured by masks made of animal skulls and painted with ominous patterns. These weren''t some spooky statues. They were real people.

    In their hands, they brandished what appeared to be simple spears, their tips glowing with an eerie luminescence. They might''ve looked like normal sticks sharpened to a point, but that weird glow made her nervous.

    One of them stepped forward, slightly taller than the others, his voice muffled behind his mask. "Kash¨¹-lo vo, tala-no. Mi heya la-tere?"

    She had absolutely no idea what that meant. Her heart raced, and her palms turned sweaty. "Uh, hey? Hi. I come in peace. Don''t kill or curse me or something, okay?"

    The leader tilted his head as though waiting for an explanation. A murmur of conversation passed between the three men, their words impossible for Fii to understand.

    "We''re, uh, not going to have a good conversation, are we?" she asked, scratching the back of her head.

    As she took a cautious step back, one of the spears zipped past, whistling as it sliced through the air and impaled the ground right where her foot had been just moments ago.

    Her hand immediately covered her heart. "Woah! Easy, easy there!"

    She raised her hands defensively, preparing to use her power, if needed.

    Then, from behind the trees, another figure emerged¡ªa woman dressed in a flowing tunic the color of moss, her long, braided hair bound with charms and feathers that swayed gently as she moved. Her skin was dark, and her face was adorned with intricate tattoos in hues of green and black.

    As she approached, the three men with spears stepped back, giving her a small nod of respect. She spoke in a low voice, her tone soothing yet firm. "Why have you come to our quarter?"

    "Oh, thank god. Someone I can actually talk to!" Fii said, feeling some of her nervousness melt away. Her voice grew slightly more confident. "My name is Fii. I, uh, was told I might be part-Kurigali. Half-Kurigali. Maybe. And, um, I''m looking for information and a guide."

    She paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "Like, not necessarily a guide into the quarter¡ªalthough I''m not opposed to that¡ªbut more like a guide through the badlands. I really need to get to Merraco, and I was hoping the Kurigali might, you know, offer some help."

    She punctuated her monologue with a halfhearted chuckle, glancing nervously at the three men who stood nearby. "Sorry if I''ve, uh, interrupted anything. I didn''t really know where I should have gone in here to ask questions."

    The woman seemed to consider Fii''s words for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly as she turned to the three men and said something in their language, gesturing towards Fii as she did so. The three of them lowered their spears, stepping back further.

    Her attention back on Fii, the woman said, "Who are your parents?"

    Fii''s shoulders slumped as she let out a soft sigh. "I, uh, don''t really know. Never met my dad, and my mom disappeared six years ago, I think. My memory''s a bit fuzzy on the details. I don''t remember her face at all. Or her name, for that matter."

    The woman nodded and tilted her head. "Curious."

    She motioned for the masked men to retreat, and they did, disappearing back into the underbrush. "We Kurigali know ourselves well. You may call me Barathi. Come, follow me. We have a means to discern your claim."

    Fii hesitated for a moment, her eyes scanning the shadows of the trees for any remaining masked figures. Finding none, she followed the woman.

    <hr>

    Barathi led her along a narrow path through the park, their journey marked by the crunching of dead leaves and the occasional flutter of wings in the canopy above. Fii felt a lot more relaxed than she had just minutes ago. Even the sounds of the forest seemed less eerie now.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Before long, they arrived at a wooden bridge suspended by sturdy ropes over a small pond. On the other side, several small wooden houses were nestled in the shadows of the trees.

    Stepping onto the bridge, Fii couldn''t help but marvel at its craftsmanship. The wooden planks underfoot were smooth and carefully joined. She leaned over to peek into the pond, her eyes widening as she caught sight of colorful fish swimming among the lily pads below, their scales glimmering in the sunlight.

    "This place is amazing," she murmured, her steps quickening to keep up with Barathi.

    Her guide offered a small smile. "It''s home. Or rather, the closest thing to it we have in the slums."

    Crossing the bridge, they reached a cluster of houses. One house, in particular, stood out from the rest, situated under a massive tree. Its wooden walls and thatched roof were decorated with carvings and trinkets, making it feel more like a sacred space than a home. Before it, several Kurigali were engrossed in conversation with each other, their voices blending into a rhythmic, melodious hum.

    "Come, follow me," Barathi invited, gesturing towards the group. The closer they got, the more nervous Fii felt. She could see the curious and occasionally wary glances the Kurigali cast her way. Feeling self-conscious, she made sure to step carefully and to not accidentally knock into anyone.

    As they passed through the small cluster of houses, she caught glimpses of daily life among the people here. Children darted between the trees, their laughter blending with the soft hum of conversation. Some adults sat in small circles, weaving baskets from reeds or grinding herbs in stone bowls. Others were stringing colorful beads or polishing wooden trinkets, their hands moving with practiced ease.

    "So... now that we''re talking..." Fii said, swallowing, "Is there something I should... I don''t know, avoid doing? You know, out of respect or... whatever. I don''t want to screw this up."

    Barathi gave her a thoughtful look, as if pondering where to start.

    "Your concern for respect is a good start," she replied, offering a small nod. "Kurigali customs are deeply tied to reverence¡ªreverence for the land, for the spirits, for the traditions of our people. Here, we walk with both the seen and unseen, and it is important to carry ourselves with humility in their presence."

    Fii nodded along, trying to process this. "Right, got it. So... humility. Check."

    Wait, did she just say ''unseen''? What did that mean?

    "This isn''t some warning about ''walking wrong'' or something and ending up cursed, right?" she asked, her voice going a little high. "I mean, that''s not an actual thing, right?"

    "Perhaps. Who is to say?"

    Her cryptic response did nothing to calm Fii''s nerves. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Barathi''s lips twitched with a small smile, though her eyes remained serious. "Follow me closely and stay silent when we enter the Mambo''s presence. She is... well, let us say she speaks to those the rest of us cannot see."

    "Uhhh..." Fii blinked a couple times, then nodded. "Sounds like I''m about to meet someone who could read me like an open book."

    Barathi said nothing in response, simply resuming her path through the cluster of houses. Fii couldn''t help but notice how each building seemed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Vines and leaves wrapped around the structures as though they had grown there naturally, and little charms dangled from the doorframes¡ªcarved animals, feathers, stones painted with symbols¡ªall shifting in the light breeze.

    Finally, they reached the hut under the massive tree. Barathi paused at the entrance, lifting the charm-laden drape that served as a door. Inside, the air was scented with an earthy aroma, a blend of damp soil, greenery, and something sweet and pungent that Fii couldn''t quite place. The light from outside seeped in through small openings in the roof and walls, casting dappled patterns on the floor.

    In the center of the hut, an old woman sat cross-legged on the floor, her skin marked with a spiderweb of tattoos in intricate patterns. She held a necklace in her hands, her eyes closed, a low hum resonating from her throat.

    Barathi whispered to Fii before they approached, "This is Mambo Naya. She is one of our most respected elders and the spiritual heart of our people. If she''s in a trance, wait quietly until she emerges."

    The Mambo''s neck and wrists were adorned with an array of bracelets, beads, and charms, each clicking and clacking softly with her every move. Her hair, wild and silver, cascaded down her shoulders, with colorful beads and small bones woven into her locks.

    For several minutes, they stood there, Fii trying to be respectful despite her growing discomfort. She wasn''t sure if the heaviness in the room was real or her mind playing tricks on her, but it felt almost suffocating.

    Finally, just as Fii''s discomfort had turned into a quiet fidgeting, the Mambo''s eyes opened, her gaze landing on Fii, sharp and penetrating, but not unkind.

    "My, my," the old woman''s voice crackled, but not without warmth, "What have we here? Not often we have a visitor, especially one such as yourself, child."

    "Um, hi," Fii managed, her voice coming out softer than she intended, almost shy. "I''m, uh, Fii. Pleased to... meet you. Ma''am? Mambo?" She glanced nervously at Barathi, who offered an encouraging nod.

    "So polite," Mambo Naya chuckled softly, the sound rich and resonant. "Come closer, child. Let me look at you properly. Do not be afraid."

    Fii hesitated for a brief moment before stepping forward. Mambo Naya extended her hands, palms upturned, beckoning Fii closer. Despite a lingering apprehension, Fii placed her hands in the old woman''s grasp. The Mambo''s skin was rough and weathered, but her touch was gentle, almost comforting.

    Mambo Naya''s eyes scanned Fii''s face as if reading a story written in her features. "Ah, yes, I see," she murmured to herself. "Yes, yes..."

    Fii tried not to squirm under the intense scrutiny, her own eyes darting to the patterns etched into the old woman''s skin. In the dim light of the hut, the intricate tattoos seemed to come alive, shifting and swirling with a life of their own.

    Mambo Naya turned Fii''s hands in hers, tracing the lines of her palm, fingers drifting across her skin with a feather-light touch.

    "You''ve come to us with a fractured spirit," Mambo Naya spoke softly, her gaze still locked onto Fii''s. "You carry the essence of our people, but it is tangled with something else."

    "Um, is that another way of saying that I''m half-Kurigali?"

    The old woman seemed to consider this, a smile creasing her face. "Your blood carries the link to us. But the ways of the spirit are not so simple. There is something in you that feels... different. Powerful. And lost."

    "Uh..." Fii blinked a few times, then shot a nervous glance at Barathi. "That''s probably the power. I''m a Super. Yeah."

    Barathi''s eyebrows went up, and Mambo Naya tilted her head, still holding Fii''s hand in hers. "Super?"

    "Uhh... It''s like a special ability. You know, powers and stuff. I have superpowers. I mean, just gravity. I can control gravity. It''s kinda scary when I really let loose. Not gonna lie." She laughed nervously. "But I''m sure you already knew that, what with the whole... spirit stuff..."

    Barathi glanced at Fii, then turned back to the Mambo, her tone respectful as she began speaking in the Kurigali tongue.

    "Mambo Naya, Super na z¨¹rakalu vo, ta kura z¨¹ra lo lu," she explained softly, gesturing to Fii.

    Mambo Naya''s expression softened, her eyes settling thoughtfully on Fii. She responded in the same lyrical language, her voice carrying a weight of understanding. "Ah, kura''le heya? Ta tala vo na lu heya-ri."

    Fii could only catch fragments of their exchange, her attention drawn to the subtle shifts in their tones and the way Barathi''s voice softened with respect. She glanced from Barathi to Mambo Naya, hoping to find some hint of meaning in their expressions.

    Barathi looked to Fii, translating, "What you call a Super, we know as z¨¹rakalu, which in our tongue means a bearer of strength and light."

    "Oh. Cool," Fii remarked, eyes flitting between the two. "Yeah, that''s me. Kind of."

    Mambo Naya chuckled at her reply before returning her attention to Fii''s hands. She gently pressed her fingers against various points on Fii''s palm and wrist, as though searching for something.

    "So, you hold the strength of the unseen¡ªthe pull that binds us to the earth and to each other," she stated, her tone suggesting a deeper understanding. Suddenly, her eyes snapped back to Fii''s. "You said your name is Fii?"

    "Uh, yeah, why?"

    Mambo Naya gave a small nod, her mouth turned in a kind of half-smile. "Fii... your name holds meaning in our language. ''Fi'' alone means ''hidden''¡ªa veil, the unseen. But ''Fii'', with the emphasis on the end, it means ''hidden strength''... strength of the unseen."

    "Oh, so it''s just a coincidence then."

    "Coincidence? No," the Mambo shook her head. "There are no coincidences, only connections waiting to be seen. Your name and your power align, child. That is not by chance."

    "...Oh, okay then. Sure."

    She never really gave her name much thought, honestly. It''s just what she''d always been called, nothing more. Just Fii.

    But now? Maybe it was the warm, scratchy timbre of Mambo Naya''s voice, or the way Barathi looked at her, or maybe it was the smells and the sounds of the Kurigali all around, but it made her feel... strangely at home. It made her feel like she belonged here.

    The old woman''s grip on Fii''s hands tightened gently, her thumb tracing a line across Fii''s palm. "Your journey here is not an accident either. The spirits have guided you, just as they speak through your actions. And these spirits tell me that you have come here for a reason beyond your ancestry. Speak to me, child, of your purpose."

    "Well..." Fii began, drawing in a deep breath. She tried to keep her voice steady. "I''m trying to save someone. A friend. Someone who''s very important to me. She''s also... a bit of a superhero in her own way."

    The words, once started, seemed to flow from her with unexpected ease. She told them about Edith, her abduction, and her desperate need for a guide to reach Merraco.

    After her explanation, Mambo Naya leaned back, a thoughtful expression on her face. She exchanged a glance with Barathi, and they shared a few quiet words in their native tongue.

    Finally, the Mambo turned to Fii, her expression set in a stern but not unkind manner, "What you ask for is no simple request. Guiding you through the Wastes is a perilous journey, and even with a guide, there is no guarantee of success or safety. Are you prepared to face such risks for this person you seek to rescue?"

    "Yes, I am." Her voice came out steadier this time, more certain. There was no hesitation in her answer.

    "Very well," the Mambo said with a small nod. "Then we shall assist you. However, I have a condition."

    Fii tensed slightly, her hands gripping the edges of her shirt. "A condition?"

    Mambo Naya looked at her with an intense, unwavering gaze. "Before we provide you with a guide, you must first pledge to honor us and to learn the ways of the Kurigali. It is not just about the journey; it is about understanding, respecting, and preserving our traditions. Only then can we ensure the true meaning of your Kurigali heritage is passed on, whether you are wholly of our blood or not."

    She released Fii''s hands, leaning forward, her eyes seemingly peering into Fii''s soul. "Your spirit, child, is fragmented. It seeks unity. We can help you mend it, but you must be willing to accept our ways."

    Fii could feel the weight of Mambo Naya''s stare boring into her. A knot tightened in her chest. She had known seeking the Kurigali''s help would be risky, but she hadn''t thought it might also involve digging into her own identity and whatever ''spirit'' the Mambo was referring to.

    A part of her was still scared about the whole... voodoo aspect of things, but at the same time, it felt like a part of her had always been calling out to find her roots and learn more about this piece of herself. Edith was worth any risk¡ªand maybe a bit of soul-searching wasn''t too high a price either.

    Drawing in a deep breath, Fii nodded her agreement. "Alright. I''ll do it."

    Mambo Naya''s expression softened, a smile playing across her wrinkled features. "That is wise. We will prepare a hut for you here, so you may begin your tutelage under Barathi and other mentors we shall choose for you. In time, when we deem you ready, you will have your guide. May the Loa guide your path, child."

    Barathi stepped forward, extending a hand toward Fii, a look of quiet pride in her eyes. "Come. You''ve taken the first step to honoring both your friend and your bloodline. There''s a special bathing ritual we''ll need to prepare for you first."

    Fii swallowed nervously but nodded. "O-okay, sure... nothing weird, right? No... like... animal sacrifice or anything?"

    Barathi laughed, her rich voice filling the hut. "No, nothing like that. Don''t worry, it''s just a traditional cleansing."

    Fii blushed and took Barathi''s hand, and together they stepped out of the hut.

 Chapter 22: Cleansing Ones Inhibition

    True to her word, Barathi led Fii into a simple, secluded hut within the Kurigali''s forested hideaway. Fii''s anxiety was slowly replaced by a curious wonder as she entered the space.

    Inside the hut, there was a square tub filled with an array of flowers¡ªmarigolds, orchids, hibiscus, and others Fii didn''t recognize by sight or scent¡ªthat emitted a gentle aroma, teasing her nostrils and making her lean in for a better smell. Steam wafted from the surface of the bath, the heat having caused the petals to unfurl and release their fragrances into the air.

    Around the tub, candles cast a warm glow on the wooden walls of the hut. An array of painted clay bowls sat on a stone shelf, each filled with a different colored powder.

    "I thought it was just a water bath!" Fii blurted out, her cheeks flushing pink. "This is so fancy."

    Barathi smiled, clearly amused. "This is a ritual of cleansing and purification. It''s a part of our tradition to welcome a new member of the community, and it''s not meant to be rushed."

    "New member?" Fii''s eyes widened as she glanced between the tub and Barathi.

    Barathi''s smile softened. "Well, not officially yet, but we''ll see where your path takes you. But for now, the purpose of this is to clean the body and soul before you embark on a spiritual journey."

    Two other women who looked close to Fii''s age stepped into the hut, carrying small clay jars and bowls.

    "This is Raiya and Miko, my apprentices," Barathi said, gesturing to the women. "They will help me with the bath preparations."

    "Oh, uh, hi," Fii greeted, feeling a little overwhelmed by the sudden increase in company. Raiya and Miko smiled back, but didn''t speak; their attention quickly turned to setting up for the ceremony.

    Raiya began lighting a bundle of dried herbs tied together with a piece of string. She gently waved it around the room, letting the smoke fill the hut. The scent was earthy and soothing, but Fii couldn''t quite place the fragrance.

    Next, Miko picked up a small bowl containing a blue powder. She dipped her fingers into the bowl, then began tracing lines on the floor around the tub, humming softly as she worked.

    "What''s that?" Fii asked, leaning over to get a better look at the blue powder.

    "Those are lines of protection, to keep any negative energies from entering the space," Barathi explained, nodding towards the lines. "And Raiya is cleansing the air with sacred herbs."

    As Raiya finished smudging the room and Miko completed the lines on the floor, Barathi stepped over to the bath and started stirring the flower petals with her hand. The water made gentle splashes, creating small ripples in the surface. She then picked up a jar, uncorked it, and poured an amber-colored oil into the tub.

    "So... what do you want me to do now?" Fii asked, rubbing the back of her head.

    "Disrobe and enter the tub," Barathi stated, motioning towards the bath. "We will begin the ceremony. The herbs in the bath will cleanse your skin, while the oils we add will soothe your mind and nourish your spirit."

    Fii felt a jolt of shyness run through her, her eyes flicking between the three expectant faces. She was usually pretty casual about stripping down, but something about this felt more... intimate. Plus, with Quinn''s words in her mind...

    "Um, what about those two?" Fii pointed at Raiya and Miko, her voice a bit high and strained. "Is that part of the, uh, tradition?"

    Barathi glanced over at Raiya and Miko, who had started to whisper and giggle quietly to themselves. She sighed and gave Fii a sympathetic look. "It''s alright. They''re young. They are supposed to learn about our rituals and customs by observing."

    Fii grimaced. "That''s... not super reassuring, but okay. If that''s how it''s supposed to be."

    She squared her shoulders and began taking off her shoes and socks. Then, with a small sigh of resignation, she pulled her tank top over her head, letting it drop to the floor beside her. Next, she slipped out of her bike shorts, feeling the warm air of the hut on her bare skin.

    The two apprentices exchanged looks, but Fii couldn''t really make out the meaning behind their glances. Raiya was shorter, with jet-black hair and sharp, striking features. Miko had softer, rounder features, her brown hair cropped short. But in their matching robes and their quiet, observant demeanor, they seemed like reflections of each other.

    Once she was fully undressed, she tried to cover herself as best she could with her arms. Slowly, Fii approached the bath and stepped into the tub.

    The water was just shy of scalding, and she could feel her skin tingling as she sunk in, surrounded by the fragrant petals. The flowers floated around her, their petals gently brushing against her legs and arms. She tried to find a comfortable position, but the tub was a bit cramped for her taste.

    Fii decided to sit with her legs bent to her chest, her chin resting on her knees. She wrapped her arms around her legs, a small buffer of modesty.

    As she settled into the tub, the three Kurigali women stepped closer, forming a triangle around her. Barathi picked up a wooden ladle, dipped it into the tub, and began pouring the fragrant water over Fii''s body, letting it cascade down her skin and hair. Raiya and Miko followed suit, dipping their ladles into the tub and gently pouring the water onto Fii.

    "Uh, this is kinda weird," Fii murmured, her cheeks flushing red. The sensation of hot water and the gentle touch of their hands on her back and shoulders made her feel self-conscious, yet cared for at the same time. The water felt soothing against her skin, and she couldn''t deny that the herbal scent of the bath was quite pleasant.

    Barathi, standing behind Fii, began massaging her scalp with scented oils, while Raiya and Miko continued to pour water over her. As Barathi massaged her head, she recited words in a low, melodic voice in her native tongue.

    "Ura-lo ta-hali, lo-ka ta-tera ta-navi, Sala-lo ta-fira," Barathi chanted softly.

    "Umm... what does that mean?" Fii asked, feeling a little uneasy.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    "May the waters cleanse you, may the flowers heal you, and may the spirits embrace you," Barathi translated, her fingers moving gently through Fii''s hair.

    "Oh, that''s nice," Fii said, relaxing a bit. She closed her eyes and let herself focus on the feeling of the water on her skin and the soft, rhythmic chants of the Kurigali women. The herbal bath was starting to make her feel a bit drowsy, as if she were sinking deeper and deeper into a warm, peaceful sea.

    After a while¡ªFii wasn''t sure how long, as time seemed to stretch and blur in the dim light of the hut¡ªBarathi''s hands left her head. Fii was left sitting in the bath, the water now cooled to a lukewarm temperature.

    "All done?" she asked, glancing back at Barathi.

    Barathi smiled. "Not yet, young one. You still need to be fully cleansed."

    She turned and motioned to the two apprentices. Raiya and Miko moved forward, stepping closer to the bath. They kneeled, each dipping a cloth into the bathwater. They began to rub the cloths over Fii''s skin, starting from her shoulders and moving down her back.

    Fii jolted a bit, a small squeak of surprise escaping her lips as the cloth made contact with her skin. They were very thorough, too, lifting her legs and doing a full scrub-down.

    How long has it been since someone else washed her? She couldn''t really remember...

    The Kurigali women worked in silence, the sound of dripping water punctuating the occasional crackle from the candles. Once they finished the bath and cleaning, they helped Fii out of the tub. Miko handed her a soft, white towel to dry herself off with.

    The warmth of the bath lingered on her skin, and her face felt flushed¡ªnot just from the heat, but from the whole experience. There was something humbling, almost surreal, about being cared for in such a ritualistic way. She was used to doing things herself, after all.

    As Fii wrapped herself in the soft towel, patting herself dry, she stole glances at Raiya and Miko, who moved about the hut with practiced ease, gathering fresh cloths, powders, and other items. Barathi approached with a bundle of fabrics and an assortment of small clay pots in her arms, each one containing different colored paints.

    "Now that you are cleansed," Barathi began as she set the bundle on a stool, "we will apply the virelo paint to prepare you for the initiation. Each symbol we place upon you tells a story, a blessing, and a protection. Your path ahead will be difficult, so you must carry these symbols with you."

    Guess the towel needs to go again...

    She carefully laid the towel next to the tub, exposing herself once more to the three women.

    "So, uh¡­ how does this paint work? Do I get, like, warrior stripes or something?" she asked, trying to lighten the mood, though a little voice in her head whispered that maybe this wasn''t the place for jokes.

    Barathi, to her surprise, chuckled softly. "In a way, yes. Each stripe, dot, and curve holds meaning. The virelo will protect and guide you. Some of the symbols are for endurance, some for wisdom, and others for strength."

    Fii nodded, still feeling a bit disoriented from the bath. "What should I do now?"

    "Stand for us," Barathi replied, motioned for Fii to stand on a small woven mat in the center of the hut.

    She stepped onto the mat, her bare feet pressing against the coiled fibers. Barathi and the other two Kurigali women moved around her, beginning to dab patterns and symbols on her skin with their fingers. They started from her forehead and worked their way down her body, the cool paint contrasting with the lingering warmth from the bath.

    Fii resisted the urge to squirm as the brush tickled her skin. She could feel each stroke, like the touch of a feather, tracing across her body.

    "The virelo is made from special herbs and roots that are sacred to our people," Barathi explained as she painted a spiral on Fii''s cheek. "This line is the Path of Sight. It is to help you see clearly, not just with your eyes, but with your heart. To see the spirit within others, and to find your own truth when you are lost."

    Fii nodded, though she wasn''t sure if she entirely understood. Seeing with her heart? Finding her own truth? It all sounded a bit... abstract. But she figured there must be some deeper meaning behind it all.

    As the ritual continued, her mind started to wander. She was a bit embarrassed by the whole process, but at the same time, it also felt somewhat... liberating. Plus, it was hard not to admit that the paint looked kinda cool and pretty against her skin.

    Raiya dipped a cloth into the red pigment and began drawing curved lines along Fii''s collarbones and down her shoulders, still allowing her to stand upright. Miko followed suit, painting delicate whorls and spirals along her forearms, as if adorning her skin with a winding river.

    "These markings," Barathi explained, pointing to the lines on Fii''s arms, "are the Veins of Strength. They honor the resilience of our people and carry the spirit of endurance within them. When your body tires, you will feel their guidance."

    The paintings continued in this manner, with Barathi and the others explaining each set of symbols as they were applied to her body, connecting them to stories of their ancestors, spirits, and the natural world.

    Fii couldn''t help but squirm a bit as they painted her midsection, though she did her best to stay still. The wet paint felt cool against her skin, and the steady movement of their hands across her abdomen was a little ticklish.

    Barathi added another swirl to her lower abdomen, then declared, "This is the Spiral of Growth, a symbol of transformation and rebirth. As you pass through one stage of life to the next, it helps you stay rooted in who you are and understand the person you are becoming."

    On and on the application went. Every inch of her skin felt alive with the brush of their hands and the wet touch of the paints.

    Miko knelt in front of her, painting a series of dots and lines down her thigh and knee. Her other leg was being worked on by Raiya. The paint tickled her skin, and she had to bite her lip to keep from giggling at the sensation.

    "These here," Barathi gestured to the symbols on Fii''s legs, "are the Footsteps of Courage. They represent the bravery of the first Kurigali who ventured into the unknown, and they carry that spirit with every step you take."

    By the end, Fii''s skin was a canvas of rich, earthy paints. Barathi placed her hands on her hips, examining their handiwork.

    "It is done," she said with a note of satisfaction. "Now, you must let the virelo dry. Let the colors and their meanings seep into your skin and spirit. Then, when the time is right, you may come to the center of the village to begin the next step."

    Barathi then handed her a small bundle of garments. "Dress yourself in these once you are dry."

    Fii held the bundle in her hands and did a double-take. "Umm... What is this?"

    "It is the traditional dress for the ceremony," Barathi replied, raising an eyebrow.

    Fii held up the bundle, which was really only two small pieces of cloth. One was a long, colorful loincloth, while the other was a matching bandeau, essentially a single strip of fabric.

    "This is for real?" Fii asked, dumbfounded.

    Barathi smiled. "It is. The virelo paint should be exposed for the ceremony, so the traditional garb is minimal. This is customary for our people during rites of passage."

    "Oh. So... just this? And I''m going to be around a bunch of people like this?"

    "Yes. Don''t worry. Soon, you''ll forget all about the clothes. The focus will be on the teachings, and you will see others dressed the same. It is not so unusual among us."

    "O...okay..."

    After Barathi and the others left, Fii did her best to dress herself in the ceremonial clothes. The breeze coming from the cracks in the hut''s wood made her feel oddly exposed. The small garments did very little to hide anything from view. Even growing up in the slums, she had never gone around wearing this little before.

    She wondered what Quinn would think, if he could see her like this. A little jolt ran through her. Not in fear of his judgment, but something else...

    How did the Kurigali go around like this without getting all shy and weird?

    Looking down at herself, she gave a sigh.

    This is going to be so awkward...

 Chapter 23: Trial of Binding

    Fii''s initial awkwardness at dressing in only a ceremonial garb gradually lessened as she found herself caught up in the rhythm and flow of the ceremony. The sun had begun to sink, painting the sky with deep oranges and pinks, as she made her way to the village center. Despite the apprehension from being mostly bare in front of the entire tribe, she noticed several other women in the village wearing the same attire, their bodies similarly adorned with patterns of virelo paint.

    I guess it really wasn''t as unusual here as it felt.

    A fire had been lit in the central clearing, its flames casting long, dancing shadows against the surrounding houses. The people had gathered around in small, chattering groups. She noticed children playing games near the edges of the gathering, and old folks watching from comfortable spots on the ground or on simple wooden stools.

    Her skin prickled as some turned their gazes on her. She wasn''t sure if the nervous churning in her stomach was due to the virelo paint, or simply the fact that she was feeling shy again. Maybe it was both.

    It didn''t seem to matter much to the Kurigali. Most either nodded politely or didn''t pay her much heed at all.

    She trudged behind Barathi, trying to keep her gaze focused ahead, but her attention kept diverting to the other women in her clothing¡ªor lack thereof. Some were older, others closer to her age. Their bodies, like hers, were covered in various vibrant paints. They all wore the same basic garb, but the styles varied in their details.

    Maybe she had just blocked it out of her mind, or maybe the sudden deluge of sensory overload from the music and people was to blame, but she finally noticed that several men were also wearing little more than loincloths. Their bodies were painted too, and their attention seemed split between her and everything else going on at once.

    As they reached the village square, Barathi motioned for Fii to sit on a small mat laid out beside the bonfire. The fire was large, surrounded by a ring of stones. Small logs were being fed into it, sending sparks flickering into the air, and the smoke rose in a steady column. The orange light seemed to give everything a dreamy, otherworldly quality.

    Fii hesitated, but slowly sank down to sit on the mat. The heat from the fire was intense, and she could feel the sweat trickling down her back. The flames snapped and crackled, adding a touch of uncertainty to the evening.

    Then, the drumming started. It began slow, a steady pulse that seemed to resonate with the flickering flames. Soon, voices joined the rhythm, a deep, resonant chant in their native tongue. Fii tried to listen, to pick out any words she recognized, but it was a struggle.

    Mambo Naya arrived shortly thereafter. She wore a bright headdress adorned with colorful beads and feathers. She held a staff in her hand, tapping the ground in time with the drumbeats. Her gaze swept through the village square, taking in the various groups of people.

    Fii fidgeted. Sitting and not doing anything was driving her nuts. She turned to look at Barathi.

    "So, um, what happens now?"

    "You have a long night ahead," she replied, a small smile playing on her lips. "Tonight, you will experience what it truly means to be a Kurigali. To be one with the spirits and one with your heritage. Don''t worry. Just... trust the process."

    Fii felt her heart race and the nerves crawling back up. "Just how exactly do I¡ª"

    She cut her words short as Mambo Naya approached, her gaze focused on Fii. She leaned on her staff and smiled, the light from the fire casting dancing shadows across her face.

    "Are you prepared?" Naya asked, her voice loud enough for only them to hear.

    Prepared? Fii wasn''t sure she''d been prepared for any of this, really. She swallowed back a lump in her throat. "Yeah, I think so." The words came out a little shakier than she wanted.

    Naya''s gaze lingered on her, sharp and searching, as if she could see through the thin bravado Fii was trying to put up. Finally, she turned, gesturing for Fii to follow her toward a large, flat stone half-buried in the earth. Naya tapped the ground with her staff, the sound of wood on stone echoing sharply through the square.

    The drums immediately stopped, and a hush fell over the village.

    "The Trial of Binding," Naya began, her voice carrying through the stillness, "is a trial of self and spirit. You are here to ground yourselves, to find the connection between your body and the earth beneath you. It is the first step on your path, the foundation upon which all else will be built. Without this bond, all other trials would break you."

    Naya extended her hand. "Sit."

    Fii looked at the stone and then back to Naya. What was she supposed to do? This was so damn confusing. Still, she slowly lowered herself down and sat cross-legged on the ground, her bare skin pressing against the cool, hard surface.

    One by one, the other Kurigali¡ªall in their painted bodies and minimal clothing¡ªjoined her, each finding their place on a flat rock. Naya walked to each, laying a hand on their shoulder, whispering something in their ear.

    Fii felt eyes on her back, the weight of those gazes prickling against her skin like tiny needles. She shifted, trying to settle, but she couldn''t shake the feeling of being on display. It didn''t help that she was barely clothed and had symbols painted on her skin.

    Naya arrived at her, resting a hand on her shoulder. "Tell me, Fii. What do you know of the earth?"

    "The earth?" she repeated, trying to hide the wobble in her voice. "Um, well, it''s... it''s there. It''s always there. We walk on it."

    She wasn''t sure what answer to give. Sure, Edith had made her read a lot about it, knew the science behind it, but something told her that wasn''t what she was asking. Not to mention she used gravity in her everyday life...

    Mambo Naya made a thoughtful noise, then continued. "Yes, it''s always there. We walk on it, we build on it, and it supports us. It is our strength, our stability, and our anchor. To the Kurigali, the earth is more than just ground; it is a living spirit that connects us all. In this trial, you''ll learn to feel that connection, to bind yourself to the earth and to the ancestors who walked the path before you. It''s the first step in becoming one with the Loa."

    She released Fii''s shoulder and stood back, addressing all the young Kurigali now sitting on the stones around the bonfire in their native tongue. Then she turned back to Fii, speaking in Common again.

    "I told you before that your spirit is divided. There is a fragmentation within you¡ªyour power pulls in one direction, and your spirit pulls in another. This imbalance will weaken you, if you allow it."

    Fii blinked, feeling a faint twinge of defensiveness rising up. How could she possibly know all that just from looking at her? She''d never even seen her use her powers.

    But as much as she wanted to push back, there was something about the weight of Naya''s words that made her pause. "But I feel fine. I feel... pretty together, actually."

    "It is not something that can be seen on the outside. You''re strong¡ªvery strong¡ªand you wield power. But that does not mean your spirit is whole. Tonight, you''ll take the first step in mending this division and bringing your spirit in line with your strength."

    "Oh... so, what do I do about it?"

    Naya''s gaze softened, just a fraction. "You learn to listen. To feel the pull of the earth beneath you, to trust in the weight that anchors you. This is the Trial of Binding, Fii. You must embrace the earth, let it hold you, or you will never find balance."

    "What will happen if I don''t do it?"

    "The fragmentation of your spirit will grow. Your powers will feel like they are separate from you, like a force not your own. You will find it harder to reach them, to command them as you do now."

    Naya''s grip on her shoulder tightened, just for a second, before releasing her. She didn''t wait for a response from Fii; instead, she turned away and began speaking to the assembled Kurigali in her native tongue again.The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    As Mambo Naya addressed the other initiates, Fii watched her, unable to shake the sense of unease that had settled over her.

    This was all so... out there. Yet, despite her reservations, there was a part of her that wanted to believe. A part that yearned for the connection to her Kurigali heritage¡ªto feel that she belonged somewhere. And if there was any chance this would help her save Edith... well, she was willing to try just about anything.

    Once Naya had finished her address, Barathi stepped forward to translate for Fii. "She has asked everyone to begin. All you have to do is sit and listen. Feel the earth beneath you, connect to it. Let everything else fade away."

    "That''s it?" Fii''s voice carried a note of surprise, maybe even a touch of disappointment.

    "That''s it. But it''s much more difficult than it sounds. Trust me." Barathi smiled, then moved on to the next group of initiates, leaving Fii alone with the drumbeats and the crackling of the fire.

    Fii closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to relax. The ground beneath her felt solid, hard, and not very inviting. Her feet tapped nervously to the rhythm of the drums, the noise grating slightly with each beat.

    "Relax," she muttered under her breath. "You can do this. Just... listen."

    She focused on the heat of the bonfire, on the steady beat of the drums. The smells of ash and smoke tickled her nose, and the crackle of the fire popped in her ears. But she didn''t feel any more connected to the earth than before.

    <hr>

    Several minutes passed, and Fii shifted uncomfortably. Her bare skin stuck to the stone, making her skin itch and ache at the same time. The drums continued their rhythmic beat, but she felt nothing more than what she already did. If this was meant to forge a connection with the earth, she was failing.

    A soft breeze swept through the square, and the gentle touch on Fii''s bare skin made her shiver. It offered some relief to her heated skin, but it wasn''t enough to keep her focus. Her eyes darted around the clearing, watching the other participants in their trance-like states. Envy surged through her at their apparent calm.

    Why couldn''t she do this? What was she missing?

    She tried again, closing her eyes and trying to drown out the distractions. But everything seemed to catch her attention¡ªthe flicker of firelight on her eyelids, the scrape of her skin against stone, the distant murmur of voices from the village, and the ever-present beat of the drums. It was like the world refused to let her slip into the peace she needed.

    "You can do this," she whispered to herself, frustration lacing her words. "Just... listen. Connect. Be one with the earth. Whatever that means."

    But the earth remained stubbornly silent, and Fii''s connection to it was as distant as ever.

    Hmm...

    There was one thing she could try.

    She concentrated, focusing her power to gradually increase her weight on the stone. If the goal was to somehow sync up with the earth, maybe that would work.

    Besides, any time she concentrated on her power, it was almost like a trance anyway. She pushed past the sounds and her own skin''s sensations, focusing on her breaths, then on her heartbeat, then finally on her core. The world slowly faded away as she pulled, pushing her deeper into her mind and into a state of hyperawareness.

    As she sank into that mental state, she felt the heat on her skin like a searing fire. She felt the sting of every insect bite, and the wetness of her sweat that made her body slippery against the stone.

    But at the same time, as her mind slowly drifted towards the calm void of her meditation, all of these sensations seemed to dull. It was like she was slowly drifting further and further away from her own body, like being submerged in water, slowly sinking and sinking. The world grew softer, dimmer.

    The sweat and bugs became an afterthought. They were still there, but they were so faint that her thoughts were able to slip past them.

    In this trance-like state, Fii felt the stone beneath her, the press of it against her skin. It wasn''t quite the connection Mambo Naya had described, but it was a start.

    Deeper... Deeper...

    Her body felt heavy, and her thoughts seemed to slow, as if drifting through molasses. The beat of the drums became a distant echo, and the flicker of the bonfire faded to a soft glow behind her eyelids. Her weight sunk further and further into the ground. The rock beneath her sank even deeper into the earth as she sat atop it.

    But still, there was no connection. No... epiphany. Nothing to indicate any kind of spiritual breakthrough. What did a spirit even look like?

    Deeper and deeper...

    Her awareness expanded, slipping past her own body, and the stone beneath her. She became aware of the people around her¡ªthe other initiates, the drummers, Mambo Naya, all of them sitting or standing on the ground. But unlike before, when she had been aware of them as distant observers, now she could feel them too.

    They were each a presence in the space around her, and her sense of them felt so familiar that her mind retreated for a moment, pushing her back to her normal self. It was the same sensation she felt when she used her power on others. That awareness of another living being that let her know their movements and position.

    But she wasn''t using her power on anyone! She was just... meditating.

    Carefully, Fii drifted deeper and deeper. Her awareness spread out further across the village. She could feel the dozens of people at the event. But the further it reached, the less certain she was that she could discern objects from people. They all became one huge blob of existence.

    She pushed onward, knowing somehow that she couldn''t stop now or she''d lose her focus. Her awareness extended out across the entirety of the village. But where was the earth''s voice? She could feel the weight of the buildings pressing down on the ground. The presence of hundreds of bodies moving about. But what was the earth itself?

    She paused in her descent, surprised by her own mental query. When she thought about it, how could she tell the difference between a living being and an inanimate object? They all seemed to share the same property in her mind. Some were just mobile, while others were stationary.

    Had she always felt the earth like this and just never known it? If she hadn''t become a superhero, would she ever have found out?

    Slowly, reluctantly, Fii spread her senses outward beyond the park, across the expanse of the slums. The weight of the buildings pressing down on the ground was a comforting pressure. She could feel people and objects moving, shifting, and bustling through their lives. The presence of them was somehow... soothing, even. It made her feel grounded in her surroundings.

    Then, she heard it¡ªa whisper so quiet it could have been her own breath. But it was there, undeniable.

    "What... are you?"

    The words weren''t words at all; they were sensations, pulsing through her like ripples in a pond. And they came from everywhere at once. From the people around her, from the houses, from the stone she sat on, from the ground beneath her feet, from the sky above... even from the fire dancing in the center of the clearing. Everywhere, she felt those sensations, and they were all asking the same question.

    What are you?

    It took her a moment to find her voice, or whatever passed for a voice in this strange place. She concentrated on her thoughts, trying to send them outward, not entirely sure if it would even work. But she knew, in some primal way, that if she could sense them, they could sense her, and there was no reason to be afraid.

    "I am Fii," she thought, pouring all of her concentration into sending that simple phrase out.

    The response was immediate¡ªa flurry of sensations, each with a different voice and texture. Some were rough, jagged, like the scrape of stone against stone. Others were soft, like the whisper of wind through leaves. And still others were hot, burning, like the crackle of a wildfire.

    "You are... more," the voices echoed, each one repeating the sentiment in its own way.

    More?

    As the question formed in her mind, the world seemed to tilt, and the earth beneath her felt as if it was shifting, churning. A sudden jolt of exhaustion struck her, and her head started to throb as a sharp pain stabbed through her temples. Her body felt like a stone, sinking deeper and deeper.

    Gasping, Fii opened her eyes. She was back in the village square, the drums were still beating, the fire still flickering. Her breath came in ragged gasps, and sweat beaded on her forehead.

    What the hell was that? Had she really connected to... to something? To everything?

    She looked around, half-expecting the world to be different somehow, but it wasn''t. Everything was as it had been before.

    "Have you connected with the Loa?" Mambo Naya asked, appearing beside her as if out of thin air.

    Fii blinked, the question hanging in the air between them. Connected with the Loa? That''s what that was? The spirits?

    Slowly, she nodded. "I think so."

    Mambo Naya smiled, a glint of satisfaction in her eye. "Good. What did they say to you?"

    Fii hesitated. She wasn''t sure how to explain it, wasn''t sure if she even understood it herself. But she had to try.

    "They asked me what I was. And then, when I told them my name... they said I was ''more.''" The words didn''t do justice to the experience, but they were the best she could do.

    Mambo Naya''s expression shifted, the smile fading into a thoughtful look. "More, huh? Interesting."

    Fii cocked her head. "What does that mean? Being ''more''?"

    Naya shrugged. "That is for you to discover, young one. The Loa speak in their way, and it is up to us to interpret their meaning."

    Fii pressed her lips together, dissatisfied with the vague answer. "Okay, but like¡ª"

    Naya interrupted with a raised hand. "All in due time. For now, let us see to the other initiates." Her smile returned. "You did well."

    Mambo Naya walked off, her staff tapping on the ground.

    Fii watched her go, her head still spinning with questions. But she knew she wouldn''t get any more answers, at least not now.

    Slowly, she got to her feet, her legs feeling shaky after sitting for so long. Her head still throbbed, and exhaustion clung to her like a second skin. But she felt a glimmer of satisfaction, too. She''d done it. She''d connected to something, even if she didn''t understand what it was exactly.

    Maybe this is the key to finding myself. Or whatever.

    As she stepped away from her stone, she glanced back at it. The stone had been partly submerged in the ground. It must have happened when she pushed herself.

    Carefully, she manipulated the gravity to pull it back out, only to feel her already-exhausted head pound even harder. Maybe this would have to wait for tomorrow.

    With a sigh, she stepped away. There was still more to come tonight. She''d have to take a rest after this. There was no way she''d be up to doing anything else.

 Chapter 24: Trial of Clarity

    Fii''s night didn''t end there. The Trial of Binding had been just the start of her initiation ceremony.

    After taking a short break to recover from her experience with the Loa, she joined the rest of the tribe for a communal meal around the bonfire. The atmosphere was lively, with villagers of all ages sharing food and stories. Fii found herself surrounded by young kids who peppered her with questions about being a Super.

    Unlike a lot of the adults, they were pretty fluent in Common. A few of them were excited to practice. Fii guessed the adults mostly relied on each other to translate, but the kids were more likely to play with other children from outside of the Kurigali community.

    Even as she told a shortened, sanitized version of the fight with the Adrenomancers, she couldn''t shake the lingering sense of disorientation from her encounter with the spirits. Every time her gaze fell on a nearby object¡ªa rock, a plant, even the very earth beneath her feet¡ªit was like seeing it for the first time.

    The sensation of those hundreds of voices, each asking what she was, still echoed in her mind. What were the Loa, exactly? What did they want from her? And more importantly, what did they mean by "more"?

    But her questions had to wait. As the meal was ending, Mambo Naya approached Fii with Barathi. "Are you ready for the next part of the ceremony?" she asked, her eyes glinting in the firelight.

    Fii took a deep breath and nodded. "I think so."

    "Good. Then come with me."

    Mambo Naya led Fii away from the village square and into a small clearing surrounded by trees. In the middle of the clearing stood a large, rectangular hut with an open doorway. Inside, Fii could see a long table covered in various herbs, stones, and other items that looked to her like magical paraphernalia.

    One whiff of the air inside told her what she was in for¡ªhallucinogens.

    "This is where you''ll face the Trial of Clarity," Naya explained, gesturing for her to enter the hut. "Through the use of sacred plants, you will venture into the realm of dreams, where the Loa will guide you to a deeper understanding of your connection to our people."

    Fii stepped inside, the heady aroma of herbs and incense immediately assaulting her senses. She coughed, then asked, "What am I supposed to do?"

    Naya followed her in. "Simply consume the sacred plants that are laid out before you and let them guide your vision. We will be waiting outside."

    After mixing the herbs in a bowl, Mambo Naya pressed the bowl into her hands. Fii stared at it, feeling an unsteady sense of anticipation in her stomach.

    If this was how things were normally done, it must be safe, right? Then again, maybe there was a reason they only did this kind of thing once. Some kind of toxicity over several doses, maybe?

    I guess I''ll find out.

    Fii glanced up at Mambo Naya and gave her a small, nervous smile. "Well, here goes nothing." She drank the concoction, grimacing at the bitter taste that coated her tongue.

    As Mambo Naya left the hut, closing the door behind her, Fii felt her head begin to swim. The dim light of the candles inside seemed to flicker and dance before her eyes. She swayed slightly on her feet, reaching out a hand to steady herself against the table.

    This felt a hell of a lot stronger than anything she''d done before. Five times stronger, at least. Maybe more.

    Shapes and colors began to distort around her, and Fii could feel her grip on reality start to slip.

    Oh boy, here we go.

    She felt her body give way beneath her, her knees buckling as she fell to the floor. The hut seemed to stretch and warp around her, its walls breathing in and out like living lungs. She closed her eyes, but the kaleidoscope of colors and patterns continued to dance across the back of her eyelids.

    "Just stay still," she whispered to herself. The sound of her own voice was dissonant, stretched and doubled, as though someone else were whispering the same words just behind her. She fought the instinct to move, to fidget or fight against the sensation of sinking, and instead leaned into it.

    And then she was falling.

    Not fast¡ªno rush of wind or stomach-flipping plunge¡ªbut a slow, spiraling drift, like a feather caught in an unseen current.

    When she opened her eyes again, the hut was gone. She was standing in an endless void.

    The darkness around her wasn''t oppressive but vast, limitless, and strangely comforting. Stars flickered into existence, first as tiny pinpricks of light, then swelling and shifting, drawing impossibly close before flickering out and appearing elsewhere.

    Fii reached out a hand, unsure if it was instinct or desperation. Her fingers brushed against something cold yet yielding¡ªa surface that wasn''t quite there. She gasped softly as ripples spread outward from the contact, warping the stars into streaks and bending the space around her hand. When she pulled back, the void snapped back into place, as though she''d disturbed the surface of a still, black pond.

    The more she flexed her power, the more she felt... control? Every ripple she made was more distinct, and every movement of her hand seemed to carve a wake through the void, like she was pushing through water or thick syrup. The darkness yielded to her touch, parting around her and reforming behind her with each movement.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    What is this place?

    She felt her feet find ground¡ªor something like it. It was soft yet solid, shifting yet firm, as if the very concept of "ground" had been reimagined for this place. Her steps left no footprint, and there was no discernible terrain to traverse. It was just her, walking across an endless, dark expanse under an infinite sky of shifting stars.

    <hr>

    Ahead of her, something shimmered¡ªan outline, faint and translucent, like a mirage caught in a heatwave. Fii froze, squinting at the figure as it shifted and solidified. It was human-shaped, but wrong, its edges frayed and flickering, like an old hologram on the brink of collapse.

    Its face¡ªher face¡ªwas barely distinguishable, one side bathed in a soft, warm glow, the other fractured into jagged shards that reflected and refracted the light.

    Fii''s breath hitched. She felt an instinctual pull toward the figure, but her legs refused to move. Whether it was fear or awe that kept her rooted in place, she couldn''t tell.

    Her chest tightened as she watched it take a step forward, the movement uneven, one side lagging behind the other. The glowing half radiated a calm, grounded presence, its movements fluid and deliberate. The jagged side twitched and stuttered, its steps sharp and discordant, as though fighting against invisible chains.

    The figure stopped at arm''s reach, its mismatched halves seeming to study her as much as she was studying it. Then, slowly, it raised a hand¡ªnot in threat, but in invitation. One finger, the index finger on the glowing side, pointed directly at Fii''s chest.

    She swallowed hard and glanced down, half expecting to see some monstrous deformity in herself that she hadn''t noticed before. But there was nothing. Just her, in her paint and ceremonial garments, looking exactly as she had in the village. When she looked back up, the figure remained, its finger still pointing squarely at her.

    "What are you?" Fii asked, her voice barely a whisper. "What do you want from me?"

    The figure tilted its head, the glowing side leaning gently, the jagged side snapping into position a moment too late. When it spoke, its voice wasn''t a voice at all but a vibration, a resonance that echoed through the space around her. It wasn''t words she understood, but feelings¡ªfrustration, yearning, a desperate ache for something just out of reach.

    She frowned, trying to make sense of it. "I¡ªI don''t get it."

    The figure extended its glowing hand toward her, and Fii flinched as it touched her forehead. The sensation wasn''t warm or cold but an overwhelming pressure, like a tide pulling her under.

    Her vision exploded into fragments.

    She was everywhere and nowhere. Memories, feelings, and sensations swirled around her, disconnected and out of sequence. The first time she''d floated, weightless, using her powers to lift herself above the slum rooftops. The time her body and mind shuddered in pain as Edith''s serum washed through her. The warmth of Quinn''s embrace. The terror of the Adrenomancers. The thrill of bending gravity to her will, tinged with the hollow sense that something was missing, that she was reaching for a puzzle piece that didn''t fit.

    The stars around her blurred and stretched, forming threads of light that wove together into a tapestry¡ªone that shimmered and shifted, never fully complete. The glowing side of the spirit figure stood within the tapestry, its movements slow and deliberate, weaving patterns of light with its hands. The jagged side loomed at the edges, its movements erratic, slashing through the threads and unraveling them as quickly as they were formed.

    Fii felt the pull again, an aching tension in her chest as the two sides struggled against each other. The jagged side turned toward her, its fractured edges sparking with an energy that felt sharp and alien. It pointed to the rift in the tapestry, a jagged tear that pulsed with an energy she recognized but couldn''t name.

    "What does it mean?" She tried to blink away the sting in her eyes, but it refused to ease.

    The figure shifted closer, its two halves out of sync, the jagged side pushing and pulling, distorting the space around it. It extended both hands this time, reaching for her, and she braced herself for the contact.

    <hr>

    Fii''s eyes snapped open, her body drenched in sweat. She was still lying on the floor of the hut, her heartbeat thundering in her ears. The air felt stiflingly warm, and her body felt raw and exposed, as if she''d been peeled open like a fruit. Her chest heaved as she tried to steady her breathing, her hands trembling as they gripped the woven mat beneath her.

    Naya kneeled beside her, her eyes searching Fii''s face with a mixture of concern and curiosity. Behind her, Barathi stood, holding a bowl of what looked like water.

    Fii blinked rapidly, trying to clear her vision and settle the jumble of thoughts in her head. As her focus sharpened, the kaleidoscope of colors and distorted shapes gradually eased.

    "Easy, there," Naya murmured, laying a steadying hand on her shoulder. "Try not to move too quickly. Your mind and body are reacquainting themselves with each other."

    Barathi crouched, offering her the bowl of water. "Drink."

    Fii accepted it with a weak nod, her arms feeling leaden and clumsy. The water was cool and clean, and it soothed the roughness in her throat. She drained the bowl before handing it back to Barathi.

    "What happened?" she asked, her voice cracking. "What was that?"

    Naya''s hand remained on her shoulder, gently grounding. "It was your vision. All the initiates experience a vision as part of the ceremony."

    Fii stared at her, her eyes wide. "But... I saw myself. But it wasn''t me. Or... it was, but there was something wrong. It was in pain."

    "Visions are the language of the spirit world," Naya said, her voice low and gentle. "They rarely speak to us directly. Instead, they communicate through symbols, feelings, and images. To interpret them correctly requires patience and an open heart."

    Fii shook her head, pressing a hand to her temple. "I... I''m not sure how to interpret any of that."

    Naya''s smile was understanding. "Take your time. The vision will continue to reveal itself as you allow it to. Trust in the guidance of the spirits; they will lead you to the answers you seek."

    Barathi extended a hand, helping Fii to her feet. The hut spun lazily around her for a moment before settling back into place. She took a deep breath, steadying herself, and looked at Mambo Naya.

    "So, what''s next?"

    Naya''s expression softened. "Rest, young one. Rest and reflect. You''ve undertaken a significant journey tonight¡ªone that requires time and solitude to process. The last trial will be after you''ve spent more time with us and learned more about who we are and how we live."

    Fii nodded, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over her. The night had been more than she''d anticipated, and she wasn''t sure she had anything left in her. She just wanted to sleep.

    "Okay. I can do that." Her voice sounded small, uncertain.

    "Come," Barathi said, wrapping an arm around her waist to steady her. "Let''s get you somewhere you can rest."

    Fii leaned into the support gratefully and let herself be guided out of the hut and back into the village. The fire had dwindled, casting long shadows across the square. The drummers had ceased their rhythmic beating, and the other participants had already dispersed to their homes.

    The village seemed hushed and expectant, as if it, too, was waiting for her to unpack the meaning of her vision.

 Chapter 25: Roots

    Fii awoke in the morning to the sun streaming in through the open window. For a moment, she was disoriented, her memories of the previous night fragmented and dreamlike. But as she sat up and surveyed the room, the events came flooding back to her. The bonfire, the vision, the strange figure that was her and yet not her. She rubbed her eyes, trying to dispel the lingering sense of unease that had settled over her like a veil.

    As she swung her legs over the side of the bed, her muscles ached, and her head throbbed. Whatever the herbs were that Mambo Naya had given her, they packed a punch. She hadn''t felt this hungover since her last wild night with Quinn.

    The room was modest but comfortable. A small desk stood in the corner, and a basin of water rested on a nearby table. Fii stood and staggered to the basin, splashing water on her face and taking a long, grateful drink. The cool liquid eased her parched throat, and the fog in her mind began to clear.

    The sound of children''s laughter drifted in from outside, accompanied by the clucking of chickens and the distant barking of a dog. Fii moved to the window, her bare feet padding softly on the wooden floor. She peered out to see a group of Kurigali children playing a game of tag. They darted around a pen containing several goats, their laughter echoing off the nearby huts. Adults moved among them, tending to their daily tasks.

    Fii watched for a moment, a feeling of disconnection washing over her. She was a stranger here, an outsider. She knew little of the Kurigali and their ways, and the events of the previous night had only emphasized that fact. She''d agreed to stay in the village and learn their customs, but a part of her¡ªthe stubborn, willful part¡ªhad no intention of sticking around any longer than necessary. There was so much she needed to do, and she couldn''t afford to waste time.

    But, then again, if the end result was a guide to help her get through the Wastes... it wasn''t so bad, was it? Plus, she''d already come all the way out here.

    Fii sighed and turned from the window, her gaze falling on a pile of clothes lying at the foot of her bed. Curious, she picked them up, discovering a colorful tunic and pants, similar to those worn by the other villagers. They smelled fresh, their vibrant patterns woven from hand-dyed yarn.

    She held the tunic up, admiring the intricate detail. It was beautiful, but it wasn''t hers. She had no claim to the culture it represented.

    At least... not yet.

    Not like I have anything better to wear.

    She sighed, running a hand over the fabric.

    Okay, maybe she could wear the clothes. It wouldn''t hurt anyone, and besides, she did promise to try and assimilate. It was a start.

    She looked down at herself and realized she was still covered in paint from last night''s ceremony. The body paint was smudged and flaking, its vibrant reds and whites now faded and muted. She grimaced, feeling suddenly self-conscious.

    She grabbed a cloth from the basin and wiped away the remnants of the paint, watching it swirl and disappear into the water, turning it a pale pink. Then, without further thought, she slipped on the offered clothing. The fabric was soft against her skin, and the colors seemed to come alive in the sunlight streaming through the window.

    Feeling refreshed and eager to find out what the day held in store for her, Fii ventured outside.

    Barathi sat on a low stool near the doorway, watching the children play their game. She looked up as Fii appeared, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Good morning. Did you sleep well?"

    Fii nodded. "Yeah, thanks. What''s... happening today?"

    Barathi stood and brushed off her tunic. "First, we should get some food in you. Then, I''ll show you around the village. You can meet the rest of our tribe and learn more about our ways."

    "I could go for that. Food, that is."

    Barathi led her to a small, open-walled shelter where a fire burned beneath a large metal cauldron. A woman stirred the contents, and the smell of something rich and savory wafted through the air. Barathi spoke to her in their native language, and the woman nodded, dishing up a portion of the stew into two wooden bowls. She handed one to Fii and the other to Barathi.

    Fii sniffed at the stew. It was mostly vegetables, from what she could tell, with bits of meat that were... well, not goat, that''s for sure. She gingerly took a bite. The stew was hearty and flavorful, and the meat¡ªwhatever it was¡ªmelted in her mouth. She devoured the rest of the bowl with gusto, savoring the warmth that spread through her body.

    Once they''d finished their meal, Barathi guided Fii through the village, pointing out various structures and explaining their significance. There was the main gathering hall, where the elders met to discuss important matters. The workshop, where skilled craftsmen created everything from tools to furniture. The shrine, where spiritual leaders like Mambo Naya communed with the spirits and sought their guidance. And of course, the living quarters, where the families lived in their modest but comfortable homes.

    As they walked, Fii observed the villagers going about their daily activities. Some were tending to crops in small garden plots, while others were engaged in repairs or crafting. Everyone seemed to have a task, and they performed it with a quiet focus that Fii found admirable. Even the children were involved, running errands or assisting the adults in their work.

    But amidst the hustle and bustle of the village, Fii couldn''t help but notice that there was no sign of technology. No electricity, no digital devices, not even a radio or a television.

    Granted, the technology leftover in the slums was several decades behind the Metropolis anyway, and in some cases, a century or more. But there was at least a little bit of tech in the slums, even if the Metropolis residents had left them far behind. Here, however, there was nothing. No vehicles, no screens, not even a single light bulb.

    At least they still traded with the city, from the looks of it. She had spotted a few pieces of plastic and glass throughout the village. But why were they so averse to electricity or running water?

    When Fii asked about it, Barathi''s expression turned thoughtful.

    "We have a different relationship with the spirits here," she explained. "They are a part of everything we do, and we believe that introducing the machines and gadgets of the modern world would upset the balance of their energies. It is a choice we have made to honor the land and its guardians."If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Fii considered this, her brow furrowed. "So, you''re saying the spirits don''t like technology?"

    Barathi laughed, shaking her head. "No, not exactly. It''s more that we see the natural world and the spirit world as intertwined. Technology represents a separation from that connection, and we prefer to maintain a harmonious relationship with the land that sustains us."

    Fii frowned. That didn''t seem to make sense. Wasn''t a fridge better for preserving food? Wouldn''t a motorized vehicle be better for transportation? Sure, she could understand not wanting to upset some kind of natural order or whatever, but...

    "It just seems inconvenient," she said, trying to keep her tone neutral. "Wouldn''t your lives be easier with a little tech here and there?"

    Barathi paused, considering her words. "Perhaps, in some ways. But we''ve found that the simplicity of our lifestyle brings its own rewards. We are more connected to the land, to each other, and to the spirits that surround us. It may seem inconvenient to someone from the city, but to us, it feels right."

    Fii mulled over her response. It wasn''t an answer that satisfied her completely, but she had to respect their choices. Who was she to judge how they lived their lives, especially when she knew so little about their culture and beliefs?

    As they continued their tour, Barathi introduced her to the various members of the tribe. Each person greeted her warmly, and many of them were curious to hear more about her life in the city. She did her best to answer their questions, surprised by their genuine interest and the ease with which they welcomed her into their community.

    Despite her initial reservations, she found herself drawn to the rhythms of village life. The sense of interconnectedness, the shared purpose, and the deep reverence for the land and its spirits were unlike anything she''d experienced before.

    As the day wore on, she started to wonder if maybe there was something to be learned from the Kurigali''s way of life¡ªsomething that might help her on her journey to becoming a better hero. If only she could figure out what that was.

    <hr>

    Fii''s days in the village settled into a routine. She woke with the sun, ate a simple breakfast, and spent the mornings working alongside the other villagers. She helped tend to the crops, repair buildings, and care for the animals. It was hard, physical work, but it was satisfying in a way she hadn''t expected.

    In the afternoons, she joined the other young people in their lessons and training. She learned about the history and customs of the Kurigali, practiced their language, and even participated in their martial arts drills. Though her physique as a metahuman gave her an advantage in the sparring matches, she often found herself outmaneuvered by the Kurigali''s quick reflexes and their knowledge of the terrain.

    The evenings were her favorite part of the day. The tribe would gather around the central fire, sharing stories, music, and laughter. Fii would sit quietly, watching and listening, letting the sounds and rhythms of the village wash over her. It was a peaceful, almost meditative experience, and it was in those moments that she felt the most connected to the Kurigali and their way of life.

    She wasn''t quite sure how to interpret her vision from the bonfire yet. She tried asking a few of the locals, but everyone had a different interpretation. One said it meant she was divided. Another said it was a message from her ancestors. Another said that it was a warning. A fourth person claimed her vision was a reflection of her soul.

    One of the younger kids suggested that the image of her mirrored face meant that there were actually two of her. That had earned him a smack from his mother and a good laugh from the other adults in the area.

    Fii wished she had the opportunity to talk to Mambo Naya, but the old woman had been busy. Whenever Fii went to her hut, she''d been informed that Naya was attending to something else.

    That didn''t surprise her. From what she''d seen, Mambo Naya was the spiritual leader of the whole tribe. She was responsible for everything from settling disputes to performing rituals, and there always seemed to be someone seeking her counsel or assistance.

    Besides, the old lady had a weird habit of vanishing into thin air. Fii had seen her do it a couple of times. One minute, she''d be there, and the next, she''d be gone. It was disconcerting, but no one else in the village seemed to find it odd. In fact, they treated it as a perfectly normal part of their lives. When she''d asked about it, the others had simply shrugged and told her that Mambo Naya had a special gift.

    Maybe it was a power of some sort, like Fii''s gravikinesis. But if so, why didn''t they call her a Super? Was it because she was using her ability in the service of the spirits? Or was there something else at play, some cultural difference that Fii just didn''t understand?

    What did they call metahumans again? Z¨¹rakalu? A bearer of strength and light?

    It was a nice title. Not a very accurate one, in her opinion, but nice all the same.

    In the meantime, Barathi had become her unofficial guide to the village. She was patient and kind, answering Fii''s countless questions and helping her navigate the complexities of Kurigali culture. Fii was grateful for her help, and she found herself growing fond of the older woman.

    As the days turned into weeks, Fii''s bond with the tribe grew stronger. She learned their dances, their songs, and their stories. She even began to dream in their language. And though she still felt a twinge of guilt for staying away from the city for so long, she knew that her time in the village was important.

    One afternoon, Fii was working in the fields with a group of other villagers. One of the village warriors approached her, an older man named Luku. He ushered her to follow him, and she did, her curiosity piqued.

    Luku led her to the outskirts of the village, where a group of other warriors surrounded... Quinn?!

    Fii''s breath caught in her throat.

    She blinked a few times, rubbed her eyes, and then pinched herself for good measure. But no, he was still there. The same tousled, dirty-blond hair, the same bright green eyes, the same crooked grin that always made her heart skip a beat.

    He was dressed in the same ratty green jumpsuit he always wore. The same old tool belt hung around his waist, the same pouches and compartments stuffed with his repair and maintenance tools. Even his old, dirty boots were the same.

    Quinn raised a hand and waved, and Fii couldn''t help but wave back, a mix of relief and excitement bubbling up inside her.

    But she was also aware of the eyes of the village warriors on him. They didn''t seem hostile, but they also weren''t relaxed. It was like they were assessing him, trying to decide if he was a threat.

    "Quinn! What are you doing here?"

    He shrugged, his smile still wide. "I came to check on you. It''s been weeks, and I hadn''t heard a peep from you. Got a little worried, honestly."

    Fii stepped closer, lowering her voice. "You shouldn''t be here. It''s not safe for outsiders."

    Quinn arched an eyebrow. "Oh, really? ''Cus it looks like you''re doin'' just fine. Besides, you know me. I''ve got my ways of stayin'' out of trouble."

    Fii sighed, glancing back at the village warriors. They were still watching them, but their expressions had softened a bit.

    She grinned sheepishly and spoke to them in their native tongue, "Uh... lo-sa... vok-ri kero. Lo-ta novi. Na Sala-lo Ka-zira. Hali na... la-tera." She hoped that meant, "He''s my boyfriend¡ªa good person. I''ll watch over him, sorry for the trouble."

    Fii could never get the hang of proper syntax and kept defaulting to telegraphic speech.

    The warriors exchanged glances before nodding at her and walking away. Fii breathed a sigh of relief and turned back to Quinn. "Okay, you can come in. Just, uh... just stick close to me, okay?"

    Quinn''s grin widened. "You got it. By the way, what''d you say to them?"

    "That you''re my boyfriend, so they''d better behave," she said, punching him lightly on the arm.

    Quinn rubbed his arm. "Good to know you''ve got my back. By the way, you sounded pretty good in that language they speak. When''d you learn that?"

    Fii blushed. "Yeah, well, I''ve been practicing. Come on, let''s go."

 Chapter 26: Gutters Can Shine Too

    Fii stood before a cluster of Kurigali elders, Barathi, and Mambo Naya. They gathered in the main village hut, its walls adorned with paintings that depicted stories and traditions of the tribe. She felt a mix of anticipation and nervousness as she awaited their decision.

    "Your commitment to our way of life has been admirable, Fii," Mambo Naya spoke, her voice warm yet firm. "You have proven yourself to be a person of strong character and respect for our traditions."

    The other elders nodded in agreement, and Fii felt a surge of pride. She had dedicated herself to understanding and embracing the Kurigali''s customs and beliefs, and it was gratifying to know that her efforts had been recognized.

    Barathi spoke next, a fondness in her tone. "We have watched you grow in both skill and spirit during your time with us. Your eagerness to learn and your dedication to our ways have touched us all."

    Mambo Naya continued, her gaze meeting Fii''s. "Therefore, we have decided to grant your request for a guide. It is not a decision we make lightly, but we believe that your intentions are pure and your cause just."

    Fii felt a wave of relief wash over her, mixed with gratitude. She bowed her head respectfully, expressing her thanks to the elders and to Naya.

    "You will be assigned a guide, a Kurigali warrior named Luku," Naya announced. "He is one of our most skilled and trusted, and he will ensure that you safely traverse the Wastes on your journey."

    Fii looked at the older warrior she''d seen around the village a few times. He was one of the ones who had escorted Quinn out a couple of weeks ago. He had a stern face, with dark, observant eyes and a scar running across his jawline. His body was wiry, and he carried himself with a quiet confidence.

    Luku bowed to the elders and then to Fii. "It is an honor to serve as your guide, z¨¹rakalu. I will do everything in my power to ensure your safety and the success of your mission."

    "Thank you, Luku," Fii responded, trying to match his solemnity. "I am grateful for your guidance."

    The meeting concluded, and the elders, Barathi, and Luku filed out of the hut, leaving Fii and Mambo Naya alone. Naya regarded Fii with a thoughtful expression, her eyes twinkling.

    "I must admit, Fii," she began, "I was skeptical when you first arrived. I doubted your commitment to our ways and questioned your reasons for seeking a guide. But I have seen the change in you during your time with us. You have embraced our culture and shown a deep respect for our beliefs. It has been... unexpected."

    Fii shifted, uncertain of what to say. She had been skeptical too, at first, of the Kurigali and their customs. But the more she learned, the more she came to appreciate the wisdom and beauty in their way of life.

    "I''m glad I proved you wrong," she said, managing a small smile.

    Naya chuckled, her expression softening. "As am I. Now then, I''m sure you are eager to return to your own home and continue your work there. We will not delay you any further. Luku will be ready to depart whenever you are."

    Fii nodded, feeling a sudden pang of sadness. Despite her initial reservations, she had come to enjoy her time in the village. She had made friends, learned new skills, and found a sense of belonging she hadn''t known she was missing.

    These past six weeks had been some of the best of her life. It was a far cry from her previous routine of patrolling, keeping gangs in check, and helping people. She would miss the simpler pace of life, but the Kurigali were also a hardworking bunch. Even on their easiest days, Fii still had to do manual labor for hours on end. It was fulfilling, but not a way of life that she could ever fully adapt to.

    Her calling as a Super was simply too important to ignore.

    "I''ll prepare my things," Fii finally said. "Thank you again, Mambo Naya, for everything."

    The old woman smiled, placing a hand on Fii''s shoulder. "It has been a pleasure, young one. May the spirits watch over you and guide you on your journey."

    Fii left the hut and returned to her temporary dwelling, gathering her belongings and the few gifts she had received from the villagers during her stay.

    It wasn''t as if she was never coming back. In fact, she already knew she would. Maybe not anytime soon, but it would happen. This wasn''t goodbye; it was just a ''see you later.'' And yet, there was an undeniable melancholy that lingered in her thoughts as she packed.

    As she stepped out of the hut for the last time, she was greeted by Barathi, who had a knowing look in her eyes.

    "I knew you''d be leaving soon," she said, smiling. "You have that restless look about you, always itching to be off and doing something."

    Fii laughed, the sound a little strained. "Is it that obvious?"

    Barathi nodded, reaching out to squeeze Fii''s arm affectionately. "You''ve learned a lot here, Fii. Don''t forget what we''ve taught you. It may come in handy more than you realize."

    "I won''t," Fii promised, returning the gesture. "I''ll keep everything in mind. Thanks for all your help, Barathi."

    The two women embraced, and Barathi whispered in Fii''s ear, "Don''t be a stranger. You''re always welcome here, remember that."

    "I will. And I''ll visit, I promise."

    Barathi stepped aside, allowing Fii to pass. "Safe travels, z¨¹rakalu."

    <hr>

    Fii reached The Vigil, the former police station turned superhero hideout, late in the afternoon, having left the Kurigali Quarters earlier that morning. The parking garage that used to hold police vehicles had since been converted to a makeshift mechanic shop by Virgil and Quinn, who were...still in the process of working on a dune buggy?

    As Fii walked in, Virgil and Quinn looked up from where they were huddled over the half-built vehicle, covered in grease and grime. Virgil''s face was stern, but Quinn''s broke into a grin when he saw her.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    "I did say you didn''t need to rush things to get our guide, but damn, kid," Virgil quipped, wiping his hands on a rag. "Six weeks? What, did you take the scenic route?"

    Quinn punched him on the shoulder and then hugged Fii, getting grease all over her clothes in the process.

    "Finally back to the concrete jungle," Quinn said, pulling back and looking her over. "I thought you''d come back wearing beads and feathers or something, but you''re just wearing your regular old clothes. That''s no fun at all."

    "Hey, I still got a few trinkets," Fii replied, pulling out a small necklace with a pendant in the shape of an eye. "They call it a spirit-eye charm. It''s supposed to ward off bad energy or something. Oh, and this." She held up a bracelet made of wooden beads carved with intricate patterns. "It''s a Kurigali friendship bracelet. Barathi made it for me."

    Quinn examined the bracelet, nodding approvingly. "Cool. Very tribal chic." He leaned in to whisper, "Hey, uh, did they also give you the clothes you wore during that... ritual? The one you talked about? You know, the... skimpy..." His voice trailed off, his eyes glazing over.

    Fii smacked him on the head, her face turning red. "Quinn! Seriously?"

    Virgil cleared his throat, and Fii and Quinn snapped back to attention. "If you two keep tryin'' to get frisky under my watch, I''ll tan your hides," he threatened. "Now, did you manage to get a guide, kid?"

    Fii nodded, tucking the necklace and bracelet away. "Yeah. His name''s Luku. He''s a Kurigali warrior, and he knows the Wastes better than anyone. He''ll get us through. We can pick him up whenever we''re ready to go. Speaking of going... why are you guys still working on that buggy?"

    "We''ve already got one up and running," Quinn said, pointing to the completed buggy in the corner that she missed. "But Virge here thought it''d be a good idea to have a spare."

    Virgil shrugged. "You never know what might happen out there. Besides, the spare can double as a parts donor if something breaks on the first."

    Fii eyed the buggy skeptically. "I don''t know... It looks kind of flimsy. Are you sure it''s safe to drive in the Wastes?"

    "The sand''s not the problem," Virgil replied, crossing his arms. "It''s the critters that call that place home. Some of ''em are... well, let''s just say they''d make a T-rex think twice before messing with them."

    "What''s a T-rex?" she asked.

    Virgil rolled his eyes. "Never mind."

    "I''ve heard stories about those creatures," Quinn chimed in. "Like, there''s this thing called a ''wickerbeast'' that''s supposed to be bigger than a bus. It''s got claws that can rip through metal like paper."

    "Or the sandworms," Virgil added. "They''re said to be blind, but they can sense vibrations from kilometers away. One wrong move, and you''ll find yourself being swallowed whole."

    Fii gulped, suddenly feeling much less eager to venture into the Wastes. "I still think it''s better to try and hitch a ride in an airship," she muttered under her breath.

    "Airships only travel between major settlements," Virgil reminded her. "And the ones going to and from Merraco are either miliary or corporate vessels. Not the best idea to try and stow away on one of those. Not that I''ve tried, mind you."

    "Right. Because that''d be crazy," Quinn said, his tone playful.

    Fii sighed, resigned to her fate. "Okay, fine. We''ll take the buggies. But if we get eaten by some giant monster, I''m haunting both of you."

    Virgil snorted. "That''s fair."

    Fii sighed and turned to go upstairs, pausing to look back at the half-built buggy. "Just... make sure it''s sturdy, okay? I don''t want to die because of a mechanical failure. When are you thinking of leaving, Virgil?"

    "About a week. Gives us enough time to finish this, gather supplies, and get you trained with some basic survival skills," Virgil replied, picking up a wrench and getting back to work.

    "Already got that covered," Fii said, a hint of pride in her voice. "The Kurigali taught me a lot while I was with them. I know how to navigate, how to find water and food, even how to build a shelter in the desert."

    Virgil raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Well, well. Looks like someone made the most of their time away. Still, a refresher wouldn''t hurt. And you''ll need to learn how to maintain and operate the buggies. Just in case."

    Fii nodded, understanding the importance of being self-reliant. "Okay. Let me get settled in, and then we can start."

    "Sounds like a plan," Virgil replied, his attention already back on the task at hand.

    Fii headed upstairs, leaving the two men to their work.

    <hr>

    The next day, Fii entered Tweak''s hideout to find her sitting in front of her usual wall of screens, her eyes flickering between different feeds. The space was dimly lit, and the air hummed with the soft whir of machinery.

    Fii cleared her throat, catching Tweak''s attention. She swiveled around in her chair, a lollipop stick protruding from the corner of her mouth.

    "Fifi! I''ve missed you!" she exclaimed, jumping up to give Fii a big hug¡ªwell, more like a big, crushing squeeze with her legs wrapped around her torso. "How was the wilderness? Did you learn to talk to trees?"

    Fii chuckled, extricating herself from Tweak''s grip. "It was... interesting. I definitely learned a lot. And no, I didn''t learn to talk to trees. But I did pick up some other skills that might come in handy."

    Tweak grinned, hopping back into her chair and spinning around in a circle. "I bet! Those Kurigali folks are hardcore. I''ve heard they can survive for weeks in the desert with just a canteen of water and a pocketful of sand."

    "Well, I don''t know about that," Fii said, laughing. "But they did teach me how to navigate using the stars and how to find edible plants. Oh, and how to make a shelter in case of a sandstorm. Oh¡ªdid I ever mention that I''m part Kurigali?"

    Tweak stopped spinning, her eyes widening. "Wait, what?! Seriously? You''ve been holding out on me, girl!"

    "I only found out recently too. Virgil told me."

    "That''s wild! So, do you feel any different? Do you think it changes anything?"

    Fii shrugged. "I''m still the same old me. I guess I feel a bit more connected to my heritage, though. It''s... nice." Her eyes scanned the room, noting the various tools and gadgets scattered around. "So, what have you been up to?"

    Tweak shrugged, gesturing vaguely at the screens. "You know, the usual. Keeping an eye on things, trying to stay ahead of the game. Oh, while you were off doing the whole ''back-to-my-roots'' thing, I''ve been keeping an eye on your Super stalker."

    "Glimmerstrike?" Fii asked, her voice tinged with annoyance.

    Tweak nodded. "She''s been looking around the slums for you. I''ve intercepted a few of her drones and sent her on a few wild goose chases. I even had one of the drones lead her into an alley with a bunch of rowdy street kids. It was hilarious."

    Fii couldn''t help but grin at the thought. "Thanks, Tweak. I owe you one."

    "Nah, don''t mention it. Oh, that reminds me. I still have a connection to one of her drones. Wanna mess with her a bit? Maybe send her some threatening messages or something?"

    Fii shook her head. "No, that''s okay. I don''t want to stoop to her level. Besides, she''s the least of my worries right now."

    "Suit yourself," Tweak said, shrugging. She turned back to her screens, her fingers dancing across the keyboard. "I''ll check her out right now for you, see what she''s up to."

    A few seconds later, one of the screens flickered, showing a live feed from Glimmerstrike''s drone.

    Fii didn''t bother looking. Instead, she settled onto the couch nearby and closed her eyes. She hadn''t had a chance to properly relax since leaving the Kurigali, and it felt good to finally have some downtime.

    As Fii relaxed, Tweak kept an eye on the screen, monitoring Glimmerstrike''s movements. After a few moments, she frowned and leaned closer to the screen, her eyebrows knitting together. "Uh oh, Fifi? I think you might wanna take a look at this."

    Fii cracked one eye open, peering at Tweak. "Is it important? I was trying to take a nap."

    Tweak turned to face her, concern evident on her face. "I, uh, think Glimmerstrike''s in deep trouble."

 Chapter 27: Singing to the Scrapheap

    Earlier that day¡­

    Glimmerstrike scanned the slum marketplace on her energy platform suspended high above the ground, her eyes searching the crowd for any signs of Axion. Her long platinum-blonde hair, usually left loose, was pulled back in a ponytail for this outing, as per the request of Paragon Entertainment''s marketing team. The sleek, form-fitting bodysuit she wore hugged her every curve, its iridescent material shimmering as she moved.

    "Come on, where are you?" she muttered, her eyes darting back and forth.

    It had been a few weeks already, and Axion still hadn''t shown herself. She knew that the little twerp was around. She had to be. There was no way that she could have left without a trace. Did one of the gangs here take her out?

    No way.

    Someone who had manage to kill Prime wouldn''t die so easily. Not without some spectacle. An explosion. The burning of a building, the leveling of a block. The media would have jumped all over the event to broadcast Axion''s demise.

    But there was no such news.

    It wasn''t for a lack of searching, either. Glimmerstrike had been practically scouring the streets to find the Meta. She even had her camera drones spread out to catch a glimpse of the scoundrel.

    "Tony," she spoke into her comm, addressing the operator on the other end. "Any updates?"

    "Nope. Still no sign of her. You''d think the white hair would give her away, but so far, no dice."

    Glimmerstrike sighed, her patience wearing thin. "She''s gotta be here somewhere. I swear, if she''s hiding from me, I''ll¡ª"

    "Hey, relax," Tony interrupted. "We''ll find her. Just remember, the whole city''s rooting for you. This is prime streaming material."

    "What''s there to stream when nothing''s happening?" she grumbled, still searching. "The collab with Diamond Ace to bring her down should have happened by now, but she''s not showing her face. Are you sure you didn''t miss any sightings?"

    "Yeah, I''m sure. Unless she''s got a camouflage power we don''t know about, she hasn''t been around. But that''s a good thing, right? Means she hasn''t been causing trouble."

    "Ugh, I guess."

    "Can''t believe Diamond Ace isn''t even helping out right now," Tony mused. "You''d think he''d be eager to help bring down the villain who killed his teammate."

    "It''s complicated," she replied, biting her lip. "There''s a lot going on behind the scenes."

    "Such as?"

    "I really can''t talk about it," she insisted, trying to keep the frustration out of her voice. "Just trust me on this one, okay?"

    Truthfully, she wasn''t upset about Diamond Ace''s absence. Despite his seemingly cold and strict demeanor, she knew that he took his work seriously. But during her time training under him, she''d discovered that he hadn''t been on good terms with Prime, to put it mildly.

    Besides, the mission to apprehend Axion was technically a Paragon Entertainment initiative, not an Ultimate Guardians one.

    "Yeah, yeah," Tony dismissed. "So, what''s the next step?"

    Glimmerstrike chewed on her lower lip. She needed to do something big to get Axion''s attention. Something that would draw her out of hiding and into the open. It had to be daring, it had to be bold, and most of all, it had to be livestreamed for maximum exposure. She racked her brain, thinking of anything that would fit the bill.

    What could she do?

    Wait, of course!

    An idea began to form, and a sly smile spread across her face. "Tony, I''ve got an idea. And I need you to set up the stream."

    "Oh? This should be good. What do you have in mind?"

    "If we can''t find Axion, we''ll make her come to us," she explained. "We''ll find one of the big gangs in the area and bust them. We''ll livestream the whole thing, and I''ll make sure to call her out. She won''t be able to resist."

    "Are you sure about this?" Tony asked, sounding hesitant. "You know how dangerous the gangs here can be. Especially when they''re provoked."

    "More dangerous than the criminals we''ve been dealing with in the Metropolis?" Glimmerstrike scoffed. "Please, Tony. This will be a piece of cake. The most they can do is shoot me with scrap guns and rusty knives."

    "You''re not wrong," Tony said. "Alright, I''ll start setting things up on our end. Just be careful, okay?"

    "Relax, I''ve got this," she assured him. "Now, let''s find a target. Preferably one of the bigger gangs."

    <hr>

    At a run-down hospital on the edge of the slums, members of the Red Market Syndicate hurriedly moved boxes of illicit medical supplies and contraband out to a large truck parked in the crumbling parking lot. A group of armed guards watched the perimeter, their eyes scanning for any potential threats.

    The syndicate''s leader, Dr. Isabella Sartori, stood by the truck, barking orders to her men. She was a tall, imposing woman with short, cropped black hair and a piercing gaze that could make anyone feel small. She wore a lab coat over a simple black dress, her appearance as no-nonsense as her demeanor.

    "Move it!" she shouted, her voice commanding. "We''re on a schedule here!"

    One of her men, a burly man named Rico, approached her cautiously. "Boss, are you sure about this? I mean, we''re already in enough hot water with the other gangs. If they catch wind of this..."Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

    Isabella shot him a withering glare that silenced him instantly. "Do you really think I''d be doing this if I wasn''t sure? Now, get back to work before I decide you''re more useful as spare parts."

    Rico swallowed hard and nodded, retreating to help with the rest of the supplies. As they finished loading the truck, Isabella checked her watch. "Time to go," she announced. "Let''s not keep our customers waiting."

    Just as she was about to climb into the passenger seat of the truck, a brilliant light flashed overhead, and a figure descended from the sky on a shimmering energy platform. The guards raised their weapons, but before they could fire, a barrage of glowing, translucent projectiles rained down on them, knocking the guns from their hands.

    The figure landed gracefully, her long blonde ponytail swaying as she struck a pose. A few drones buzzed around her, their cameras focused on her every move.

    Isabella recognized her immediately¡ªGlimmerstrike, a corporate hero from the metropolis. She had a reputation for putting on a good show¡ªa rising star known for her flashy style and over-the-top theatrics, but whether she was actually a competent hero was another story.

    What the hell is she doing out in the slums?

    "Freeze, scumbags!" Glimmerstrike shouted, a confident grin spreading across her face. "Glimmerstrike is here, and it''s lights out for you!"

    Isabella raised her hands in a show of surrender, her expression a mask of cool detachment. "What''s a Metropolis Superhero doing all the way out here?"

    "Glad you asked," Glimmerstrike replied, her eyes gleaming. "See, I heard you guys were causing trouble, and I couldn''t just sit by and let that happen. So, I''m here to put a stop to your little operation." She paused, her gaze sweeping over the scene before her. "Plus, the slums could really use a bit of a cleanup, don''t you think?"

    Isabella narrowed her eyes.

    Now how did a corporate hero know what they were doing all the way out here in the slums? This couldn''t have been a coincidence. She had to have an informant. Or maybe an insider. One of her men?

    Isabella looked back at the men. No, they were too afraid of her. She made sure of that.

    Glimmerstrike crossed her arms, the glowing energy around her solidifying into a series of crystalline spears. "What, did I surprise you? Bet you weren''t expecting a hero to show up all the way out here."

    Isabella narrowed her eyes. "Not at all. I just find it odd that you''re so concerned about us ''causing trouble,'' as you put it. We''re just trying to make a living, same as everyone else."

    Glimmerstrike scoffed. "Oh, please. Don''t try to play the victim here. You''re peddling stolen meds and God knows what else. You''re a danger to society."

    Isabella smirked, stepping forward slowly. "Maybe. But who''s going to save society from people like you? The corporate puppets who only care about their ratings and their bank accounts?"

    Glimmerstrike''s smile faltered for a moment before she recovered. "That''s rich, coming from a gangster. But it doesn''t matter. You''re finished. Surrender now, and maybe the courts will go easy on you."

    "The metropolis doesn''t really persecute people like us, and you know it," Isabella shot back. "As long as none of the maintenance crew and volunteers go missing, they couldn''t give less of a shit about the people living in the slums. The people up there are content to let us live our lives. It''s a symbiotic relationship."

    "True," Glimmerstrike conceded, shrugging. "But that doesn''t change the fact that you''re under arrest. So, what''s it going to be?"

    Isabella tilted her head, a smile spreading across her face. "How about we make a deal? You let us go, and we give you a cut of the profits. It''s win-win. You get paid, and we continue our... operations."

    Glimmerstrike laughed, shaking her head. "You really think I''d agree to that? I''m a hero, not a crook."

    Isabella shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "Suit yourself. But remember, you had a chance to walk away from this."

    She turned towards the hospital and blew a sharp whistle. "Bill! Get out here and show our guest some hospitality!"

    <hr>

    Glimmerstrike''s drones shifted their focus to a tall, thin man who emerged from the shadows of the building. He had a pale, sunken face and thinning brown hair that he had combed over in an attempt to hide his receding hairline.

    The man called Bill cracked his neck, a twisted grin on his face. His eyes were a dull, muddy green that seemed to bore into her. He was wearing a stained lab coat over a pair of dirty jeans and a plain gray shirt, looking like a mad scientist straight out of a B-rated movie.

    "What''s this then, Sartori?" he asked, his voice low and rough. "A hero from the Metropolis? And here I thought today would be boring." His grin widened, revealing yellowing teeth. "Well, well, well. Glimmerstrike, isn''t it? What brings you to our little neck of the woods?"

    Glimmerstrike eyed the man warily. He had the air of a wild animal about him¡ªdangerous, unpredictable. Her instincts told her to proceed cautiously, but her confidence and the need to make a spectacle for her viewers pushed her to be more aggressive. She put her hands on her hips and glared at the man.

    "Cut the small talk, creep. You and your buddies are under arrest," she declared, her voice strong and clear for the camera drones hovering nearby.

    The man chuckled, his eyes never leaving hers. "Is that so? And what exactly are we being arrested for? Practicing medicine in a place where there are no rules or regulations? Where the metropolis''s laws don''t apply, and we are free to help those who need it most?"

    "Don''t try and justify your crimes, scumbag," Glimmerstrike shot back. "You''re dealing in stolen medical supplies, among other things. That''s illegal, no matter where you are."

    "Is it now?" the man replied, tilting his head to the side. "Last time I checked, there weren''t any cops around to enforce the law. So, who''s to say what''s legal and what''s not?"

    Glimmerstrike''s patience was wearing thin, her need for action and showmanship growing stronger. She clenched her fists, the energy around her intensifying. "I am. And I say you''re under arrest."

    Isabella rolled her eyes and started walking towards the truck. "This is getting boring. Bill, take care of her, will you? I have places to be."

    "Do you want me to kill her or bring her to you for your... experiments?" Bill asked, his tone casual, as if discussing the weather. "Metahuman organs would sell very well. Especially those of a Super."

    A shiver crawled down Glimmerstrike''s spine, but she maintained her confident demeanor. She saw no weapons on him, and the guy looked pretty thin and lanky, but she knew that could all be deceiving.

    For this guy to be so brazen and confident, he must be a Metahuman, too.

    "Bring her to me," Isabella said, glancing back. "We''ll have fun with her before we harvest her organs and dump whatever''s left of her body in a ditch."

    "Got it," Bill replied, cracking his knuckles. He turned his attention back to Glimmerstrike, his grin widening. "Looks like you get to live for a while longer, Super. I wonder how long you''ll last with us."

    Glimmerstrike''s anger flared, her eyes narrowing as she prepared for a fight. "You''re going to regret messing with me, creep."

    Isabella sighed dramatically. "Bill, if you please."

    The lanky man rushed forward, faster than Glimmerstrike anticipated. She tried to dodge, but his hand grabbed her face with surprising strength and forced her to the ground.

    She felt an odd tingling sensation where his skin touched hers, and she screamed as a searing pain coursed through her body. It was like her blood was on fire, her nerves frayed and raw.

    A feverish feeling overwhelmed her senses, and her vision blurred as the man called Bill crouched over her, his hand still firmly pressed against her face. She tried to move, to summon her energy constructs, but her limbs felt leaden, and her powers seemed just out of reach.

    She could hear his voice, low and mocking. "That''s it, Super. Struggle all you want, but it won''t do you any good. My power has you now, and there''s no escape."

    Glimmerstrike''s mind raced as she struggled against the agony that enveloped her. What was this man''s power? How could he incapacitate her so easily? And how was she going to get out of this mess?

    The last thought she had before her consciousness faded was, "I''m not dying in a place like this."

 Chapter 28: Truce

    Fii leapt off the rooftop, her white hair streaming behind her like a comet''s tail. For a moment, she hung suspended in the air, weightless and free. Then, with a deep breath, she reached for her power. The world seemed to shift around her, and suddenly, she was shooting forward, propelled by her gravikinesis.

    Tweak had sent her the location of Glimmerstrike''s confrontation with the Red Market Syndicate, and she was determined to get there in time to help. She soared above the slums, dodging between buildings and weaving through the maze of streets.

    She had to admit, the Super could be a huge pain in the ass¡ªalways broadcasting her fights and chasing ratings. And the way she relentlessly pursued and antagonized Fii was frustrating and dangerous.

    But she couldn''t let Glimmerstrike die.

    No matter how much of an annoying twit she could be, she was also the closest thing to a rival Fii had, which, admittedly, was a strange and tenuous connection. More than that, though, it just wasn''t right to stand by and do nothing while someone''s life was in danger.

    As she approached the hospital, she scanned the area.

    Gone.

    Fii swore under her breath. She must have gotten here too late. The fight had been and gone. Still, there was a chance she could pick up the trail.

    "Can you track their vehicles?" Fii spoke into her comm.

    Tweak''s voice crackled in her ear. "Yeah, but it''ll take a few minutes. They have scramblers."

    Fii sighed, frustrated. "Fine, I''ll wait. Just hurry. Every minute counts."

    "Gotcha. I''ll get back to you as soon as I have something."

    Fii paced back and forth on the rooftop, trying to stay calm. She knew she had to be patient, but it was hard. Every fiber of her being screamed at her to act, to do something. Anything. She hated feeling so useless.

    Just then, she heard a sound overhead. Looking up, she saw a sleek military Osprey descending from the sky. Its dark grey fuselage gleamed in the sun, and its massive propellers kicked up clouds of dust and debris as it landed. On its side, emblazoned in bold letters, were the words ''Ultimate Guardians.''

    The ramp lowered, and out stepped a tall man in a sleek, silver suit of powered armor. His face was hidden behind a helmet, but Fii knew exactly who he was.

    Diamond Ace.

    The superhero scanned the area and spotted Fii. Without hesitation, he activated his suit''s thrusters and flew up to her, landing on the roof with a heavy thud. His helmet retracted, revealing a handsome face with a chiseled jaw and steely hazel eyes that glared at her.

    "Axion," he said, his voice cold and hard. "I knew you were involved in this mess."

    Fii bristled. "What? I''m not involved¡ª"

    "Don''t lie to me," Diamond Ace interrupted. "I''ve been monitoring Glimmerstrike''s transmissions. She said she was looking for you before she went offline."

    "That''s not¡ª"

    Diamond Ace cut her off again. "Where is she? What have you done with her?"

    Fii took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure. She couldn''t afford to get angry; she had to convince him to help her. "Look, I''m not involved, okay? I came here to help. I don''t know where Glimmerstrike is, but I''m trying to find out. We need to rescue her from the Red Market Syndicate."

    Diamond Ace''s eyes narrowed, and he stepped closer to her, towering over her. "And why should I believe you? You''ve given me no reason to trust you. As far as I''m concerned, you''re a criminal, a fugitive, and the one responsible for Prime''s death."

    Fii held her ground, meeting his gaze defiantly. "Because Glimmerstrike is in trouble, and we don''t have time for this. If you really cared about her, you''d put aside your mistrust and work with me to save her. She''s in the hands of some real psychos right now. The longer we argue, the worse it will be for her."

    Diamond Ace stared at her for a long moment before finally relenting. "Fine. But don''t think for a second that I trust you. And if you try anything, I won''t hesitate to take you down. Understand?"

    Fii nodded, relieved. "Okay, good. A friend of mine is trying to track their vehicles. As soon as we get a location, we can move."

    As if on cue, Tweak''s voice crackled in her ear. "Fifi! I got it! They''re is holed up in an old factory complex on the edge of the slums. Sending coordinates now."

    "Got it, thanks," Fii replied. She turned to Diamond Ace. "Let''s go. Every second counts."

    Without waiting for a response, she jumped off the roof and engaged her power, soaring into the air. Diamond Ace activated his thrusters and flew after her, keeping pace as they sped toward the factory.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    "You better not be leading me into a trap."

    Fii rolled her eyes. "If I were, I''d have come up with something more original than this."

    <hr>

    In the shadowy bowels of an old, rundown warehouse, Glimmerstrike strained against the thick metal chains that held her. Her body ached, her muscles tight and cramped, and her throat was dry, leaving her speech hoarse and raw. Around her, dim, flickering fluorescent lights buzzed and cast a sickly glow over the room, barely illuminating the darkness that surrounded her.

    She tried to gather her thoughts, to focus on her power and create one of her energy constructs, but every time she closed her eyes and tried to concentrate, a jolt of pain shot through her body, forcing her to abandon her efforts. The feverish feeling had only grown worse, making it feel like her insides were boiling and her head was being squeezed in a vise.

    Before her stood the lanky man from the hospital, the one called Bill.

    Whatever he had done to her, it was effectively neutralizing her abilities. She didn''t understand how it was possible, but it didn''t matter. Right now, she had to find a way out of this mess.

    "Well, well, well," Bill drawled, flicking the knife in his hand casually. "Look who''s awake. The famous Glimmerstrike. The darling of the Metropolis."

    He circled her slowly, his eyes roaming over her body with a clinical detachment that made her skin crawl. "Tell me, Super, how does it feel to be on the other side of the coin? To be the one in chains?"

    Glimmerstrike gritted her teeth, trying to hide her fear and discomfort. "It''s not the first time I''ve been in a tight spot, and it won''t be the last. I''ll get out of this, and when I do, you''ll be sorry."

    Bill laughed, a low, humorless sound. "Will I, now? I highly doubt that. You see, Isabella has plans for you. Big plans. And once she''s done with you, you''ll be nothing more than a shell of your former self."

    He leaned in close, his foul breath hot on her face. "We''re going to tear you apart, piece by piece. And we''re going to make sure you''re alive and awake for every agonizing moment of it. You think what you''re feeling right now is pain? Just wait."

    Glimmerstrike swallowed hard, trying to keep her composure. "You''re sick."

    He nodded, grinning widely. "Oh, yes. Absolutely. But that''s what makes me so good at what I do. I enjoy my work. And you, my dear Super, are going to be my masterpiece."

    He traced the edge of his knife along her jawline, and she shuddered involuntarily. "Before we get to the fun part, though, I have a few questions for you. Isabella was very interested in what you were doing at the hospital. Why did you target our operation? Who tipped you off?"

    Glimmerstrike tried to focus, to come up with some kind of plan. But the fever and pain made it difficult for her to think straight. She needed more time. So, she did what she did best.

    Stalled.

    "I have a question for you, first," she said, her voice trembling slightly despite her best efforts to keep it steady.

    Bill raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what would that be?"

    She met his gaze, her eyes hard. "What''s your power? How are you suppressing mine?"

    He chuckled. "Now, now, is that any way to bargain? You think I''m just going to reveal all my secrets to you?" He paused, tapping the knife against his chin thoughtfully. "I suppose it couldn''t hurt to tell you. Not like you''ll be able to do anything about it."

    Bill leaned in close again, his voice dropping to a whisper. "My power is simple, really. I can manipulate organic matter at will. Flesh, bone, blood, it all bends to my desires. That little trick I did at the hospital? That was just a taste of what I could do."

    He straightened up, his grin widening. "And right now, I''m using my power to keep your cells in a state of constant stress. It''s a useful trick for stopping a Super in their tracks. Though I must admit, it does take a toll on their bodies over time. There are other things I can do. I can cause your blood vessels to dilate, inducing a fever. I can cause tumors to grow and spread, muscles to twitch and tear, skin to sag and peel. And if I wanted to, I could make your heart explode in your chest. But where would the fun be in that?"

    He pulled back, shrugging. "But there''s a catch. I need to touch my targets for my power to take effect. Skin-to-skin contact is best, but I can still manage with something as thin as fabric in between. The longer I''m in contact, the more control I have. So, even though I''m not touching you right now, the damage has already been done."

    Glimmerstrike felt her stomach turn. The man before her was a monster, plain and simple. She had to find a way out of this. But how?

    "And what about your boss," she asked, trying to keep him talking while she desperately tried to form a plan. "Isabella, was it? What''s her power?"

    Bill''s grin faltered for a moment. "Isabella? She''s just a regular human. A gifted surgeon, but not a Meta. Her only ''power'' is a knack for leadership and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get what she wants."

    "Why are okay with working for her? I mean, you''re the one with powers, so shouldn''t you be the one calling the shots?"

    Bill shrugged, seeming disinterested. "It''s not always about who''s in charge. Isabella provides me with the opportunity to practice my art without interference. And besides, I''ve always preferred working behind the scenes. It''s just more... interesting that way. It''s the same for the other three... well, the other one now."

    "The other three? What do you mean?" Glimmerstrike pressed, trying to buy more time. She could feel the effects of his power wearing off ever-so-slightly, but it wasn''t happening fast enough.

    Bill laughed. "Oh, you don''t know? That''s right, you''re not from around here." He paused, as if considering whether or not to tell her. "Three other gangs each had a Metahuman, and they were a force to be reckoned with. Not anymore, though. One got killed by Backfire, and another got twisted into a mangled mess by Prime."

    "Backfire?"

    She remembered hearing that name before¡ªa former vigilante from the metropolis who had been exiled. She didn''t know much about him other than his reputation for being ruthless and effective.

    "He''s a relic from the past, an old legend that just refuses to fade away." Bill''s expression soured. "He''s been a thorn in our side for years. A lone wolf who thinks he''s the law in the slums. And now that he''s trained that kid, Fii, things have been getting worse."

    Bill looked at her and smirked. "You''ve been going up against her lately, haven''t you? I''ve seen the vids. It''s been fun watching a Metropolis hero get her ass kicked by a slumrat."

    Glimmerstrike felt her face flush with anger. She couldn''t help but take the bait. "Hey! I haven''t lost to her! Those fights were all draws!"

    Bill''s grin widened. "Sure they were, sweetheart. Keep telling yourself that." He shrugged, clearly enjoying getting under her skin. "Anyway, you won''t have to worry about running into her anymore. Not after we''re done with you, that is."

 Chapter 29: Riding the Ripple

    Fii and Diamond Ace soared through the skies, their destination looming ahead¡ªthe decrepit factory complex. The place was a rundown hulk of decaying brick and rusting metal, surrounded by a tall fence topped with coils of barbed wire. The yard was littered with rusted-out cars and other debris, and the main gate hung crookedly on its hinges, like a mouth gaping open in surprise.

    As they neared the complex, Fii scanned the area. She saw a group of Red Syndicate thugs milling about in the yard, some of them armed with pipe rifles. Others were busy moving crates of what she assumed were stolen goods into the main building. Glimmerstrike had to be inside, but there was no way to tell where exactly.

    She dropped down to the ground, landing in a crouch behind a stack of rusty drums. Diamond Ace landed beside her with a heavy thud, his armored boots crunching in the gravel.

    "Shhh! Can you land a bit quieter, jackass? You don''t have to be so dramatic," Fii whispered angrily. The last thing they needed was to alert the thugs to their presence before they had a chance to figure out where Glimmerstrike was being held.

    Diamond Ace''s visor retracted, revealing his face. He glared at her, unapologetic. "I''m sorry, I didn''t realize we were being stealthy."

    Fii rolled her eyes and peered out from their hiding spot. The thugs in the yard were still going about their business, unaware of the heroes'' presence. She pointed to the main building. "Glimmerstrike has to be in there. But we need to find out exactly where before we charge in."

    Diamond Ace scanned the building''s windows, looking for any sign of movement. "I''ll run a scan with my sensors," he said, his visor covering his face once more.

    After a few seconds, he shook his head. "There''s some kind of jamming signal interfering with my systems. I can''t get a clear reading."

    Fii bit her lip, thinking. They couldn''t just barge in blindly; they needed a plan. She looked around, and her gaze fell upon a thug smoking a cigarette nearby¡ªalone and away from the others.

    She nudged Diamond Ace and nodded in the thug''s direction. "I''ve got an idea. Follow my lead."

    Diamond Ace''s eyes narrowed behind his visor, but he didn''t object. Fii crept forward, using the cover of the debris to stay out of sight. As she got closer to the thug, she reached out with her power, pulling him towards her without making a sound.

    Before he could cry out, Fii clamped a hand over his mouth, dragging him behind the drums. She whispered harshly in his ear, "We can do this the easy way or the hard way. Tell us where the hero Glimmerstrike is, and you won''t get hurt."

    The thug''s eyes widened in fear, and he frantically nodded his head. Fii loosened her grip, allowing him to speak.

    "She''s... she''s in the basement!" he stammered, his voice shaky. "They''ve got her chained up and guarded. I don''t know anything else, I swear!"

    Fii nodded, satisfied. "Thanks for the info. Now, take a nap."

    She unleashed a controlled burst of gravitational force, knocking the thug out cold. She lowered him gently to the ground, not wanting to make any noise.

    Diamond Ace deactivated his visor and stared at her. "You could have just let me take care of him."

    Fii shrugged. "Yeah, well, I didn''t want to leave any lasting damage. Besides, we need to be quiet, remember?" She patted him on the shoulder, feeling the cold, hard metal of his armor under her fingers. "Nice job playing lookout, by the way. Your subtlety is improving."

    The look of disdain he gave her made her grin. She turned her attention back to the factory, trying to get a sense of what they were up against. The place was old and decrepit, but it was also heavily guarded.

    And then there was the question of just how many members the Red Market Syndicate had. There could be dozens of them holed up in there.

    "Hey, uh..." She glanced at Diamond Ace. "You probably have a lot more experience than I do at this kind of thing. I know we''re not exactly on the best terms, but maybe you could take the lead this time?"

    His brow furrowed, and he crossed his arms. "How do I know I can trust you not to stab me in the back?"

    Fii rolled her eyes. "Because if I wanted to do that, I''d have done it already. We both want to save Glimmerstrike. It doesn''t really matter who gets the credit for the job."

    Diamond Ace grunted, evidently not satisfied with her answer but relenting. "Fine. We''ll do this together. But any sign of treachery from you, and I''ll put you down. Understood?"

    Fii sighed, not bothering to hide her exasperation. "Yeah, yeah. Just help me save that airhead, and I''ll be out of your hair. So, what''s the plan, boss?"

    He glared at her again, but she could see the gears turning in his head as he formulated a strategy.

    The guy was definitely used to working with better intel. She could tell the constant static in his helmet feed was frustrating him.

    "Alright, let¡¯s talk options," he finally spoke up. "The direct approach is out. The moment we engage, they''ll likely try to use Glimmerstrike as a hostage, and I doubt the condition she''s in is healthy, so we''ll have to get to her before engaging."

    "Yeah," Fii nodded in agreement. "Taking them on won''t be a problem, but we need to get to that idiot first. So, stealth, I''m assuming?"

    He grunted. "Not quite, more like infiltration. Stealth will take too long. Every second wasted is a second they can hurt her."

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    She knew that already.

    "Okay, so we disguise ourselves and get in. We get to her as quickly as possible, and then we go loud once she''s safe."

    "''You'' being the operative word," he stated firmly. "You''re disguising yourself as one of them. I can''t."

    "I don''t exactly have the right clothes to pull that off."

    Diamond Ace pointed at the knocked-out gang member. "He does."

    <hr>

    Fii squirmed in the loose-fitting clothes she took from the unconscious guard. The fabric was coarse and uncomfortable against her skin, and the shirt reeked of cigarettes and body odor. She scrunched her nose in disgust but kept her complaints to herself.

    With the hood pulled up over her head and a bandana covering the lower half of her face, she blended in with the other gang members milling about. It wasn''t a perfect disguise, but it would have to do for now.

    Fifteen minutes.

    Fifteen minutes to find Glimmerstrike and get her out of there before Diamond Ace smashed his way in from the outside, and all hell broke loose. That was the plan.

    Sneak in, locate her, and extract her, all without getting caught. Easy enough, right? Except for the fact that Fii had never infiltrated a criminal compound before¡ªwell, aside from that one time with ambushing the Neon Vipers and Salvatore''s goons at the parking garage.

    She was used to direct confrontations, not stealth missions.

    But Diamond Ace had the confidence she lacked in this sort of operation. He made it clear this was the best way to get the job done. Besides, it was either this, or charge in and risk getting Glimmerstrike killed.

    So here she was, impersonating a random gangster, hoping that no one would look too closely and realize she didn''t belong.

    She squared her shoulders and took a deep breath, focusing on the task at hand. The stench from the clothes and the nagging doubt in her mind weren''t important. Rescuing the annoying twit was all that mattered right now. Fii could deal with her discomfort later.

    Keeping her head down and her eyes on the ground, she made her way across the yard, trying to look as casual and unremarkable as possible. She could feel the eyes of the other thugs on her, sizing her up, judging her.

    But so far, no one had raised an alarm or questioned her presence. She must have been pulling off the disguise better than she thought.

    She just needed to keep it up a little longer.

    Fii reached the main building and stepped inside. The interior was as rundown as the exterior, with peeling paint, broken windows, and scattered debris. She could hear the sounds of activity around her¡ªthumping footsteps, muffled conversations, and the occasional clang of metal on metal.

    She moved through the halls, carefully avoiding any large groups of thugs. She kept her ears open for any mentions of the captive hero or the location of the basement.

    Finally, after a few tense moments, she caught a snippet of conversation that seemed promising.

    "Heh, the boys down in the dungeon got themselves a real treat today, eh? That Glimmerbitch is gonna regret ever messin'' with us!"

    Another voice chuckled darkly. "Yeah, she''s gonna pay for sticking her nose where it don''t belong. Boss''s got some big plans for her."

    "Damn right. Hope I get a turn with her before we chop her up." The first voice leered, eliciting a wave of revulsion within Fii.

    She pushed the anger aside, not allowing it to overcome her. Not yet.

    "Where do you think they''re keeping her?" she asked, keeping her voice low and gruff to disguise her identity. She didn''t want to risk blowing her cover by accidentally saying something too feminine or out of character.

    "Basement level, third door on the left," the second thug answered. "But don''t go down there unless you got business. Boss don''t like anyone messing with his toys."

    Fii nodded, grateful for the information. "Thanks. I''ve gotta take a leak, see ya."

    She hurried away before they could ask any more questions. She mentally replayed the directions in her head as she made her way through the dingy corridors.

    Third door on the left, third door on the left, third door on the left...

    She found the stairs leading down to the basement and quietly descended. As she reached the bottom, she could hear the faint sound of voices and a chilling laugh that made her skin crawl.

    That had to be the room. She didn''t waste any more time and dashed toward the door.

    "Where do you think you''re going, runt?"

    The sudden question startled her, and she spun around to see a burly man, a good head taller than her and sporting a shaved head, standing behind her.

    "Uh... I''ve got business with the boss," she stammered, trying to keep her voice steady.

    The burly guard narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "You ain''t on the list. No entry."

    Shit.

    "Come on, man," she tried to bluff. "I''m one of the guys. I was just here the other day!"

    "I decide who comes in, not you. Piss off before I make you."

    Fii could have easily knocked this brute out, but that would have alerted everyone, and that was a problem. Think, Fii, think!

    A door opened behind her and she turned to see Bill step out. His eyes met hers, and then he looked at the goon. "What''s going on here?"

    "Tried to get in," the brute explained. "He ain''t on the list."

    Bill''s gaze returned to Fii, and his eyes narrowed. "Who are you? Show your face."

    Fii''s heart pounded in her chest, and she struggled to come up with a convincing lie. The bandana covering her face made her look even more suspicious, but taking it off was out of the question.

    "I''m uh... I''m Tom." Fii lowered her head, trying to play the part of an intimidated lackey. "Thought I could get a, um, turn with the Super. You know..."

    Bill raised an eyebrow. "''Tom,'' huh? You sound a little funny."

    She cleared her throat, willing her voice to drop deeper. "Sorry, cold."

    "Take off that mask. I want to get a better look at you."

    "Uh... I can''t. Bad teeth, real ugly. That''s why, uh, this is my only shot with a girl." She inwardly groaned at her awkwardness. Lying and pretending weren''t her forte. She cursed Glimmerstrike for getting caught in the first place.

    Bill let out a sharp laugh. "Is that it?" His demeanor changed, as if a switch had been flipped. He turned to the brute and slapped him on the back. "Lighten up, Hoss. Let the kid have his fun. It''s not every day you get to bang a Super."

    Hoss looked doubtful, his gaze fixed on Fii. "But... the boss said no one is allowed to¡ª"

    "Ah, forget the boss! I''ll take care of everything," Bill interrupted. He leaned in closer to Hoss, lowering his voice. "Besides, I know you''ve been eyeing that little hero ever since we brought her in. Don''t pretend you''re not itching for a taste. I won''t tell if you don''t."

    Hoss hesitated for a moment before a slow, lecherous grin spread across his face. "Alright, fine. The kid can go in. But only ''cus you said so, Bill." His attention shifted to Fii, his expression turning cruel. "And you better make it quick. No hoggin'' all the time, you got that?"

    Fii nodded hastily, eager to get away from these creeps. "Yeah, yeah, sure. Thanks a lot. I owe you one."

    Bill clapped her on the back and motioned her towards the door. "Come on, kid. Time''s a-wastin''."

    He ushered her inside, and Fii forced herself not to gag at his touch.

 Chapter 30: Stitch Before the Tear

    Bill led her into a dimly lit room filled with various medical equipment and tools. The air was heavy with the smell of antiseptic and blood. In the center of the room was a large operating table, where Glimmerstrike lay unconscious, strapped down with thick restraints.

    Her suit was in tatters, barely covering her body. She had bruises and cuts all over her exposed skin, and her hair was matted with dried blood. Her breathing was shallow, and her face was deathly pale.

    Fii''s stomach lurched, and her hands balled into fists at her sides. The urge to punch Bill''s smug face was almost overwhelming. But she had to keep up the act, at least for a little longer. She had to make sure Glimmerstrike was okay first.

    "Pretty sight, isn''t it?" Bill smirked, circling around the operating table. He ran a finger along Glimmerstrike''s thigh, and Fii had to fight the urge to knock him out. "Such a shame to see a pretty thing like her reduced to this. But, hey, at least we get to have some fun with her before it''s over, right, Tom?"

    He looked at Fii expectantly, waiting for her to join in the banter. She forced a half-hearted chuckle, hating herself for it. "Y-yeah, I guess so," she muttered, keeping her voice low.

    Bill raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Not feeling it? That''s too bad. You should be excited."

    "I am," Fii said hurriedly. "It''s just... she looks like she''s in pretty rough shape. You sure she''s up for... this?"

    Bill''s grin widened. "Oh, don''t worry about her. She''ll wake up soon enough. And trust me, she''ll be plenty responsive once we get started. This one here is a firecracker, even tied up like this." He glanced at his watch. "Alright, enough chitchat. You got ten minutes with her, kid. Make ''em count."

    He sat across the room on a dirty couch and watched her. The thought of what he expected made Fii shudder.

    "Hey, uh... Could I maybe get some, uh, privacy? You know, to set the mood..." she mumbled, hating every word.

    Bill snorted. "You wanna be alone with her? Listen, Tom, I know you''re probably nervous about your first time with a Super, but you''re gonna have to learn to perform with an audience."

    He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, and continued in a condescending tone. "Look, I''m not judging. Just remember, whatever happens in here, it''s all for a bit of fun. No one''s gonna think any less of you. Besides, you might learn something new." He leaned back and made himself comfortable. "So go ahead, kid, take your pants off, and let''s see what you''ve got!"

    He laughed at his own joke, his eyes gleaming with sadistic pleasure.

    Fii grimaced beneath her bandana. She couldn''t waste any more time stalling.

    She stepped closer to the table, pretending to fumble with her belt as she discreetly examined Glimmerstrike''s restraints. They were thick and sturdy, but nothing her power couldn''t handle.

    She didn''t see any contraptions hooked up to the Super, and that''s what worried her most. Bill had shut Glimmerstrike down, somehow, and Fii needed to figure out how to undo it. Bill was obviously involved, but the details were still unclear.

    "So, um... how did you, uh... manage to do this to her?" she asked hesitantly. "I heard Supers were practically unstoppable."

    Bill''s gaze snapped to her, his expression shifting from amusement to suspicion. "You ask a lot of questions for someone who''s about to get laid. I thought you were just looking for a quick fuck."

    "No, no, I am!" Fii said hastily. "It''s just... I''m curious, you know? About Supers and stuff. Like, how did you beat her? She''s supposed to be all-powerful, right? So, like, what''s your secret?"

    Bill eyed her warily for a moment before answering. "Well, I guess there''s no harm in sharing a trade secret with a fellow pervert. I use my power to suppress hers. It''s as simple as that."

    "Your power?" Fii feigned ignorance. "I didn''t know you were a Super."

    "Of course I am. How else could I be this big of a badass?" he boasted. "My ability is pretty simple¡ªI can manipulate organic matter at will. And I''ve discovered a little trick to keep a Super like our friend here from causing trouble." He chuckled darkly. "Let''s just say I made a few adjustments to her insides. Nothing too permanent, mind you. But enough to keep her in line."

    He motioned toward the restraints. "Though we still need those. Just in case my power isn''t enough."

    Fii''s blood boiled, but she kept a straight face. "Wow, that''s impressive. I never would have guessed. So... how does it work, exactly? Do you need to keep touching her or something?"

    Bill''s eyes narrowed, and he stood up. "You sure are interested in the mechanics of it all. I thought you just wanted a turn. I''m beginning to think you might be up to something else." His tone was light, almost joking, but there was a dangerous undercurrent to it. "What''s your game, kid?"

    Fii''s patience wore thin. Enough was enough.

    Without warning, she reached out with her power and slammed Bill into the wall, pinning him there with crushing force. The look of surprise on his face was almost comical.

    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    "The fuck¡ª" he gasped, struggling against the invisible bonds that held him.

    Fii ripped her bandana off and let her hood fall back, revealing her face. "Surprise, asshole," she sneered. "No more games."

    "You¡ª" Bill spluttered. "I should have known... that voice¡ª"

    "Should have guessed it was me?" Fii finished for him. "Yeah, you should have. But don''t worry, I''m not here to play with you. I''m here for the moron on the table. Now, are you going to tell me how to wake her up, or am I going to have to break every bone in your body and figure it out myself?"

    Bill''s expression turned to pure anger. "You won''t get away with this. I''ll make sure you regret ever crossing me. There''s nowhere you can hide that I won''t find you."

    "Big words for a guy who''s about to get his organs rearranged," Fii replied, pressing him harder against the wall. "But I''m done playing games. If you don''t start talking, I''ll show you just how dangerous I can be." She lowered her voice dangerously. "I''m not afraid to get my hands dirty, and you should be very afraid of what I''m capable of."

    Bill grinned, a manic look in his eyes. "You think you''re so tough, little girl? You have no idea who you''re messing with. I''m the¡ª"

    Fii didn''t let him finish. With a flick of her wrist, she twisted his right arm, snapping the bone cleanly. Bill cried out in agony, his body convulsing in pain. "You stupid bitch!" he screamed. "You''ll pay for that!"

    The door burst open. The brute, Hoss, stormed inside. "Bill! What the hell''s going on here?!"

    Fii spun around, her power flaring. Hoss didn''t have time to react. She launched him into the air, slamming him against the ceiling with bone-crushing force. He crumpled to the ground, unconscious or dead¡ªFii didn''t really care which.

    Her attention snapped back to Bill. He was slumped against the wall, gasping for breath, his broken arm hanging uselessly at his side.

    "I warned you," Fii said coldly, her power still crackling around her. "Now, tell me how to wake her up. Don''t make me ask again."

    Bill spat blood onto the floor. "Fuck... you..."

    "Wrong answer," Fii said, grabbing his other arm and bending it back until it snapped. Bill''s screams filled the room, mingling with the sound of breaking bones.

    "Gah, shit! Why couldn''t you have just minded your own business," Bill screamed, spittle flying out with each word.

    Suddenly, his body began to ripple and contort. His muscles bulged, tearing through his clothes. He grew taller, his limbs elongating grotesquely. "I warned you, runt," he growled, his voice distorted and inhuman. "You really think you can take me on?"

    Fii increased the gravitational force pressing him against the wall. "That depends," she said, her voice steady despite the danger she faced. "Can you lift a ten-story building?"

    Bill struggled against her power, but to no avail. His body strained and shook, but he couldn''t break free from her crushing hold. "Damn you..."

    "That''s what I thought," Fii said, keeping her voice calm and controlled. "Now, you''re going to tell me how to wake her up, or I''m going to do things to you that would make a slaughterhouse look like a playground."

    "Touchy bastard, aren''t you?" Bill''s words were hoarse, and his defiance was waning. His bravado had all but vanished, replaced by fear as he continued to struggle in vain. "We could give you everything you ever dreamed of, if you just joined us."

    A derisive snort escaped Fii''s lips. "Yeah, right," she retorted. "Like I''d believe anything that comes out of your slimy mouth. The Syndicate is nothing but a bunch of lowlifes and psychopaths. And you think I''d willingly be a part of that? Do I look like an idiot to you?"

    "You''re making a mistake, kid. This could''ve been a great opportunity for you. The Syndicate is gonna run this whole damn city sooner or later, and then what''re you gonna do? Beg for a place on the bottom rung? Don''t be a fool," Bill''s voice took on a more pleading edge. "Just hear me out. You don''t know the whole story. Things...they aren''t as simple as you think. There''s...there''s more to the Syndicate than meets the eye. If you just give me a chance to explain¡ª"

    Fii tightened her grip on her power, increasing the pressure on Bill. She wasn''t interested in his excuses or his attempts at persuasion. "I''m not here to listen to your lies," she snapped. "I''m here to get information, and that''s it. So, unless you want me to turn you into a human pancake, I suggest you start talking. How do I wake her up?"

    Bill gasped in pain. "Fine, fine! Just...stop! Please!"

    Fii hesitated, not fully convinced by his surrender, but eased up on her power just a fraction. "Talk fast, or I''ll make you regret it."

    "I just...I just have to release her from my power''s control. That''s it," Bill managed to say, his voice strained. "But first, you need to stop crushing me! I can''t do anything if I can''t move!"

    A faint groan from the table behind them startled Fii. She glanced back to see Glimmerstrike stirring, her eyes fluttering open weakly. She was coming to on her own.

    Fii turned her attention back to Bill, her eyes narrowing. "Looks like I don''t need your help after all. So, I guess we''re done here."

    "Oh fu¡ª"

    With a swift, decisive motion, she slammed Bill against the floor with such force that it left a crater in the concrete. He lay there, motionless, knocked out cold by the impact. Fii didn''t care to stick around and find out if he was still alive.

    She rushed to Glimmerstrike''s side, trying to assess her condition. The Super seemed disoriented but gradually regained consciousness. Fii did a quick scan, her eyes scanning for any critical wounds that required immediate attention.

    To her relief, aside from some cuts and bruises, there didn''t seem to be any life-threatening injuries. Fii carefully released the restraints binding Glimmerstrike, then helped the Super sit up on the table. It was strange for Fii to see the usually arrogant and confident Glimmerstrike looking so vulnerable.

    "Can you walk?" Fii asked, her voice gentler than usual.

    Glimmerstrike nodded weakly, swinging her legs over the edge of the table and attempting to stand. Her legs wobbled, and she stumbled, but Fii caught her before she fell. She draped Glimmerstrike''s arm over her shoulder, supporting her weight.

    "Thanks," Glimmerstrike murmured, her voice barely audible.

    "You''re welcome," Fii replied gruffly, avoiding eye contact. "But let''s not make this a habit. I still think you''re a colossal pain in the ass."

    As if on cue, the sound of gunfire erupted from outside, along with muffled shouts and the dull thud of explosions. It seemed like Diamond Ace had initiated his part of the plan.

    "Let''s get out of here," Fii said. "The cavalry''s arrived."

    Glimmerstrike nodded, her usual bravado absent. As they made their way toward the door, she paused, glancing back at Bill''s unconscious body. "Is he¡ª"

    "He''s alive," Fii confirmed. "Unfortunately. Let''s go before I change my mind."

    Without another word, Fii led Glimmerstrike out of the room and into the chaos waiting for them outside.

 Chapter 31: Sparks Before the Fire

    As Fii and Glimmerstrike made their way through the compound, shouts echoed off the walls, punctuated by the sharp staccato of gunfire and the heavy thuds of bodies slamming into obstacles.

    Through an open window, Fii saw Diamond Ace marching through the facility, shrugging off gunfire as if it were mere raindrops.

    She thought it was his reinforced armor that protected him, but the bullets didn''t bounce or ricochet off the surface, instead falling straight to the ground as if they lost all momentum the moment they touched him.

    The gangsters tried to fight back, some with their fists, others with pipes or knives, but they were no match for Diamond Ace. With a swing of his arm or a swift kick, he sent them sprawling.

    "Come on, let''s go," Fii said, guiding Glimmerstrike away from the chaos. She didn''t need to watch Diamond Ace''s one-sided brawl. She knew how it would end.

    Fii led her down a corridor, keeping an eye out for any straggling gang members. But it seemed like most of them were preoccupied with Diamond Ace, either fighting him or fleeing for their lives.

    They encountered a few stragglers on the way, but Fii dealt with them quickly and quietly, using her power to knock them out or slam them into walls. Glimmerstrike tried to help, but her powers were still on the fritz, flickering in and out.

    "It''s okay," Fii reassured her. "Just focus on walking. I got this."

    "Okay," Glimmerstrike murmured.

    She was uncharacteristically quiet, which bothered Fii. This wasn''t the usual Glimmerstrike she was accustomed to dealing with, the one who was always ready with a sarcastic remark or an insult.

    But then again, given what she''d been through, Fii couldn''t blame her for being shaken up. Even Supers had their limits, after all.

    As they approached a side exit, the sound of gunfire and shouting faded behind them. Fii glanced out the door and saw that the coast was clear.

    "Alright," she said. "Let''s get out of here. Diamond Ace is causing a distraction, and the rest of the Syndicate goons should be busy dealing with him."

    She stepped outside, still supporting Glimmerstrike, and started walking toward the rendezvous point. It was an unassuming alleyway a few blocks away from the compound. Diamond Ace would meet them there after he''d taken care of business.

    After arriving at the rendezvous point, Fii lowered Glimmerstrike to the ground, propping her up against the wall of a building. The Super was still disoriented, her eyes unfocused, and her breathing ragged.

    "Just hang in there," Fii said, crouching beside her. "Diamond Ace should be here soon. He''ll get you patched up and back to the Metropolis in no time. Then you can get the help you need."

    Glimmerstrike didn''t respond. She just stared straight ahead, as if she were lost in her own thoughts. Or perhaps her mind was too muddled to even process Fii''s words.

    "Hey," Fii said, snapping her fingers in front of Glimmerstrike''s face to get her attention. "You still with me?"

    Glimmerstrike''s eyes slowly focused on her, and she nodded.

    "Good," Fii said. "Look, I know we haven''t always seen eye to eye, and you can be a real pain in the ass sometimes, but I''m glad you''re okay. I''m glad we found you in time. It could have ended a lot worse if we hadn''t gotten there when we did."

    Glimmerstrike didn''t say anything, but the faintest hint of a smile appeared on her lips.

    "So, yeah," Fii continued, feeling awkward and uncomfortable.

    She wasn''t used to having heartfelt conversations, especially not with someone she considered a rival.

    Eventually, Diamond Ace arrived and knelt by Glimmerstrike. He gave her a cursory examination, checking her vital signs and assessing her injuries. When he was satisfied that she was stable, he turned to Fii.

    "Thanks for getting her out of there," he said gruffly. "I can take it from here. You''re not the priority today, so I''m giving you the benefit of the doubt. So you better not abuse it. Don''t ever expect this grace period again. Now get out of here."

    And that was it.

    Fii had expected as much, of course. There would be no tearful gratitude, no heartfelt thanks. She wasn''t one of them, and she probably never would be.

    But that was okay. She''d done what she''d set out to do, and that was all that mattered.

    With a quick nod, Fii turned and walked away, leaving Diamond Ace to care for his injured comrade. As she walked down the alley, she couldn''t help but glance back once more. Glimmerstrike''s eyes met hers, and for a moment, they shared a look of understanding. And then Fii turned the corner and was gone.

    <hr>

    "And that''s how it went down," Fii summarized her story to Virgil and Quinn the next day as they continued working on the other sand buggy. They''d been at it for hours, tinkering and repairing, swapping parts and fine-tuning.

    Virgil stopped welding on the vehicle''s chassis, lifting his protective visor to glare at her. "And you just left him there without finishing him off?"

    Fii bristled at his judgmental tone. "He was unconscious! What was I supposed to do, bash his brains in for good measure?"

    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Virgil''s lips thinned into a tight line, his eyes boring into hers. "Fii, you''ve got to learn to think beyond the moment. Bill''s a dangerous man, and he''s the sort that holds a grudge. Not only is he going to be out for blood, but you''ve given him a real reason to seek you out."

    She felt a prickle of unease. "I know, I know. It was a split-second decision. I had to get Glimmerstrike out of there. I couldn''t waste any more time."

    "Fii..." Virgil''s voice softened, but there was still a stern undercurrent to it. "You did a good thing, saving her. You had your priorities straight. But you also have to think about the consequences. He''s alive and angry, which means trouble. And now, not just for you, but also for Quinn and anyone else you''re close with. You understand what I''m saying, right?"

    Quinn piped up from where he was working on the engine. "Hold on, hold on. Are you seriously trying to make Fii feel guilty for not murdering someone? Even if it''s this ''Bill'' asshole?"

    "Watch your tone," Virgil warned, his eyes narrowing. "There''s no room for naivety in this conversation. Fii knows exactly what I''m talking about. Bill isn''t just some ordinary thug. He''s the second in command of the Red Market Syndicate. And he''s a metahuman. You remember that, don''t you, Fii?"

    She nodded, feeling even more deflated. "I do."

    "So you understand the implications. This isn''t just about some personal vendetta. This is about protecting the people you care about. If Bill is alive, he will come for you. Even if you both know that you''re the more powerful one. That''s the kind of man he is. So, what do you think you should have done differently?"

    Fii''s shoulders slumped. "I... I should have made sure he wouldn''t be a threat anymore. I should have..."

    "Killed him, yeah," Virgil finished for her. "Look, I get it. Taking a life, even a piece of shit like Bill, isn''t an easy thing. Even if you had to do what you did back when the Adrenomancers attacked, and with Prime, it doesn''t get much easier. But sometimes, it''s a necessary evil. Especially when lives are on the line¡ªyour life, and the lives of those you care about."

    Quinn stood up, wiping his hands on a rag. "Hey, come on, man. She''s not a murderer. She''s just doing the best she can. Give her a break."

    "I am giving her a break," Virgil snapped, standing up and walking outside the garage.

    "W-where are you going?" She called after him.

    He stopped and glanced over his shoulder, his face set in hard lines. "Finishing the job for you. Sooner or later, Butcher Bill''s gotta be put down. May as well be today. If not from you, then from me."

    With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Fii and Quinn alone in the garage. Fii stood there, rooted to the spot, feeling an odd mix of anger, guilt, and fear churning inside her. Quinn put a comforting hand on her shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze.

    "Hey, don''t let him get to you," he said softly. "You did what you thought was right. That''s more than most people can say."

    "But he''s right, isn''t he?" Fii whispered, staring at the ground. "I figured I''d be able to handle him again if I needed to. No one else had gone after me or my friends after I took them down. I guess I got used to that. And... I don''t know. I don''t want killing to become easy."

    Quinn wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a tight hug. Fii leaned into his embrace, finding comfort in the warmth of his body. They stayed like that for a long moment before Quinn spoke again.

    "Listen," he began, his voice gentle but firm. "Virgil''s old school, and yeah... he''s not wrong, I guess. But that doesn''t mean he''s completely right, either. There''s more than one way to do things. You''ve got to find what works best for you."

    Fii nodded against Quinn''s chest, the guilt slowly ebbing away. "Thanks, Quinn. I needed to hear that."

    "Anytime," he replied, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head.

    Fii took a deep breath, then stepped back and looked up at him. "Well, we can''t just stand around here waiting for him to come back. Let''s get back to work on the buggy. We''ve still got a lot to do."

    <hr>

    Bill flung the door to Isabella''s office open, stomping inside with a livid expression. His wounds from the other day had already healed thanks to his own ability. Though the memories of that fight still stung him bitterly.

    He marched towards her desk, slamming his hands down onto the surface and glaring at Isabella. "That bitch! I''ll find her, and I''ll make her pay for what she did to me. Just wait until¡ª"

    "Bill," Isabella interrupted, unfazed by Bill''s outburst. "Enough."

    She calmly took a drag from her cigarette, a plume of smoke filling the air between them. "What''s done is done. It''s time to move on and focus on the bigger picture. The Syndicate is what''s important here, not your petty grudges against another meta."

    Bill seethed, but he held his tongue. There was no point in arguing with Isabella when she was in this mood. He knew he wouldn''t get anywhere.

    Isabella took another long drag, stubbing out her cigarette in an ashtray. She steepled her fingers, her eyes locked onto Bill''s. "Listen to me, Bill. There are far more significant things at stake than your wounded pride. Losing the Super from the metropolis? I didn''t really care in the first place. Getting a bunch of our men beat up by the other metropolis Super? Yeah, it looks bad, but I''ve seen worse."

    "I¡ª" Bill started, but Isabella cut him off with a wave of her hand.

    "The important thing is that the Syndicate must continue to run smoothly. That means no unnecessary distractions. And revenge?" She scoffed. "That''s the definition of unnecessary."

    "But¡ª" Bill protested weakly, but Isabella silenced him again with a stern look.

    "I don''t want to hear any more about it, Bill," she said firmly. "I''ve indulged your whims long enough. It''s time for you to step up and take your responsibilities as my right-hand man seriously."

    Bill bit back a retort, knowing better than to argue with her. Isabella was right; the Syndicate came first. Always had, always would. He had to swallow his pride and do what was best for the organization.

    With a deep breath, he composed himself and nodded. "Understood, boss. The Syndicate comes first."

    Isabella smiled, but it didn''t quite reach her eyes. "Good. I''m glad we have an understanding. Now, get out of my office and get back to work. We have a lot to catch up on after all this nonsense."

    Before Bill could leave the office, one of the henchmen barged in, looking worried. "There''s trouble outside, boss!"

    "Speak of nonsense," Isabella sighed. "What is it now?"

    The henchman gulped, sweat beading his forehead. "B-Backfire, ma''am. He''s... He''s outside the gates demanding to be let in."

    Bill and Isabella exchanged a look.

    This was unprecedented. Backfire had never shown up at their doorstep before. Whatever this was about, it couldn''t be good.

    Isabella gathered her composure, putting on an air of nonchalance. "Tell him to come back another time. I''m busy."

    The henchman hesitated. "I''m not sure he''ll take no for an answer, ma''am."

    Isabella''s jaw tightened. "Then tell him to make an appointment. I don''t have time for this nonsense."

    The henchman didn''t have a chance to relay Isabella''s message. A series of loud gunshots rang out, shattering the tension in the room. They could hear frantic shouting and screams from outside.

    "Sounds like he wasn''t taking no for an answer," Bill said.

    Isabella pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes in exasperation. "Alright, fine. Bill, come with me. We don''t have a choice but to deal with this. But keep your mouth shut and follow my lead."

    Bill nodded, a sinking feeling settling in his gut. Deep down, he already knew why that bastard was here.