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Training Day Worm edition (Jumpchain) by BatRou-Dawg

Misc » Book X-overs Rated: M, English, Drama & Humor, Words: 64k+, Favs: 42, Follows: 50, Published: Dec 8, 2022 Updated: Oct 21, 2023

4Chapter 1

Checking the clean walls one more time, Alexandria reafirmed a lack of insect life before gazing through the one way glass. Most people held in a PRT Interrogation room tended not to be relaxed after three hours. Skitter, real name Taylor Hebert, on the other hand was bracing herself upside-down on her chair with one leg extended. It brought back bittersweet memories of a younger Mouse Protector. "If nothing else, her time away has made the girl significantly more limber."

Snorting, Legend sighed. "Do not make me laugh Alexandria. This situation is problematic as it is. We have a ticking time bomb in that room and we need to defuse it." Narrowing his eyes, the hero glared at the rest of the room. "Of course, due to inadvertently pushing her Trigger Trauma button, I can't be the one to fix this. Thank you so much for that."

Frowning, Director Piggot huffed. "If you think for a moment that I approve of this mess, you have another think coming, Triumvirate or no. The agent soft peddling Stalkers reports and that idiot Blackwell are already in holding for enabling this incident. We did not need the PR hit, we did not need to enable a powered bully and we certainly did not need to improve Empire recruitment by nine percent because of a psychotic Ward. Armsmaster mishandling an attempted infiltration of a gang and alienating a newly triggered Master Seven variable is something we needed even less."

Miss Militia, newly appointed head of the local Protectorate frowned. "But now, no matter how distasteful, we still need to deal with it. The girl was isolated and exposed to an escalating level of violence before her Trigger. From all reports she bonded with a villainous Thinker Seven, while every person in authority let her down. Battery is still distraught after discovering that the incident at the mall was used to further persecute her because of Stalkers caseworker and Alan Barnes. The circumstances are unfortunate, but Brandish being distracted by the injuries of her family thankfully kept her from sticking her nose into that fiasco. New Waves involvement with Skitter is already fairly problematic."

Alexandria shrugged, "The circumstances ARE unfortunate, but she is effectively a free agent now. We do not know how long in her subjective time line she was gone for, but Ms. Hebert cut ties with the Undersiders over the issue of Dinah Alcott, she cut ties with her father due to his attitude, and she has burned every bridge she has locally due to the manipulations of Tattletale and Coil. Other than a potential blood feud with Panacea, a rebrand would be a limited issue. However, she has also spent an undetermined amount of time with someone who killed Leviathan and has valuable information about at least one other dimension. Let's see if we can't come to some sort of compromise and recruitment. I'll take point Legend. Maybe a pleasant memory of acting like me as a child will help smooth things over." Fully embracing her character, Alexandria left the room, head held high.

The shift in air pressure was enough to inform me that the first power play was over. Taking my time to stretch, I slowly realigned into a sitting position before opening my eyes. The unsmiling visage of Alexandria was before me, as unbendable as a mountain. It was an interesting first move, since the local authorities were unavailable or unsuitable on the whole. It appeared that people were taking this seriously.

Not me necessarily, but the situation. One thing I had learned was that not everything was about me or my life. After all, we were all so very small in the end. Now what play would they try, after enforced isolation?

Her body unmoving, THE flying brick broke the silence first. "Skitter, nice to see you have returned."

Ah, how disappointing. I knew this was not about me, but my ego was still somewhat bruised.

"I believe that you can call me Taylor. After all, it is not like you do not know my name."

Lying was pointless and answering to Skitter defined this as a conversation between a young villain and a Hero with a capital H.

Letting them choose the name and the roles in question was not something I was interested in at this time. An interrogation could be a dance, and I was not in the mood to follow someone else's tune.

Something in my stance appeared to catch her attention. Thinkers love their tricks as I already knew before my training. So I was unsurprised when she took a seat without fanfare. It was time for her to change tracks. "Very well, Taylor it is. I believe that we have a few things to discuss, including what options we have to deal with you."

A naughty child, a limited set of choices made by someone in authority. A different tune but it was the same dance. I smiled despite myself. Alexandria was going to be an interesting conversation, no matter what I did. "I'd ask where my lawyer is, but I'm guessing that you have some loophole that makes a delay for legal representation unacceptable."

If my language or request surprised her, the hero was good enough to keep it to herself. "Dimensional travel is technically illegal, depending on the circumstances, and the fact that you left with Vortex willingly removes some potential protections. In addition, the law is a little fluid in such cases as well as alterations to your personal timeline. While your blood work came back clean, it also indicated certain hormone and genetic breakdowns that could add up to seven years to your official age. Coupled with the national security issue of a dead Endbringer, I have been granted significant flexibility in what would be considered acceptable when andling this case."

It was an offer and a threat. Both were expected and both have been planned for. Alexandria had a lot more experience, but that just made things interesting. Honestly, I was beginning to have fun! "I see. Well that would be the stick, I would hope you would keep with the stereotype and have a carrot as well?"

I could almost see the blink, even if it didn't happen. Alexandria did not move unless she wanted to. "Well, your reported power is fairly flexible and you have a history of significant creativity. I'm sure rebranding and relocation could be arranged with a minimum of cooperation. Brockton Bay does not appear to be the best environment for you and leaving might be your healthiest option."

A new name and face...how utterly predictable.

How completely boring.

It was time to change the tune before I slipped into slumber.

I sighed. "Oh, I agree I am done with the Bay. There is nothing really holding me here anymore." I have said my goodbyes and mourned my losses. There is nothing noble in digging through this cesspit. "But joining your organization seems like a couple of steps back. Either I would have to join the Wards and be a slave to your PR machine before my mysterious death, or join the Protectorate and be held under a microscope for the rest of my limited life span. In all honesty, your organization doesn't tend to cover itself in glory when it counts."

My lyrical cadence was getting under her skin. Alexandria was showing no motion, and that could be as much a tell as a twitch or fidget. Maybe I should switch to a Cali girl to mess with her some more?

The Heroine began tapping a finger. Oh, a nice way to emphasize her irritation and distract from the rest of her stillness. I appeared to have caught her attention. "No matter what you intended Taylor, you still committed assault on various ABB forces, was an accessory to a bank robbery, and used your powers for a number of chargeable events. If ever there was a carrot, this deal is it."

I debated laughing in her face before mentally slapping the back of my head. Time to give some of the expected teenage acid they had been waiting for. "My apologies, was I also supposed to kill or torture my targets for an extended period of time? Lie and mislead them before arranging their deaths? I know how much both the PRT and the Protectorate enjoy enthusiasm and initiative from their candidates."

Seeing that she was about to respond, I decide that it is time to end this round. The narrative would allow nothing less. "Still, I would be a very poor guest if I didn't share something for your hospitality, as... limited as it has been. If you are expecting Vortex to return and kill the next Endbringer? I'd get a plan B."

Instantly, Alexandria's entire body froze at an almost molecular level. The little twitches and tells she has been showing as our discussion progressed disappeared, another bit of theater that the Hero has indulged in to make our talk more organic.

It was nice to see her suddenly being honest.

Especially since she reached over to grab me by the throat.

"How do we fix this?"

I gave her an unimpressed look. If Alexandria wanted to kill me, I could not stop her without bugs in the middle of the PRT.

We both knew it, just as we knew she was not going to break my neck.

With that thought, I was released back into my seat. "You get that one for free, but don't do it again."

The Hero did not bother to acknowledge my statement. My little bombshell was enough of a distraction that she was through playing the normal games. Time for round two.

Reaching up, I removed my mask, allowing her to see me eye to eye. It had mostly been a cultural decision to wear it in the first place. The bikini was just a lost bet and a bit of indulgence. My eyesight had been fixed a long time ago, and it really let me see the world as it was, not how I thought it should be.

Ugh, I needed a nap. Bad poetic mental prose was a tool of bored, stroppy teenagers and I had not been one for quite some time.

Facing her without fear, I began my counter. "At the level of reality that Vortex plays in, interdimensional travel is fairly easy. He is not considered the most powerful of that group but he has a significant legacy. That being said, their community does talk to one another about their experiences with various locations. Earth Bet has a very interesting reputation there."

Remembering my own reaction to the news, I watched Alexandria for the full effect of my next statement. "To put it bluntly, it is considered a sign of mental illness to come anywhere close to this side of the multiverse."

She actually twitched! That was a definite point to me!

Visibility restraining herself, the Hero moderated her tone. "Why, specifically, did he come here in the first place? How can we gain his help full time? The death of an Endbringer is too important to ignore and must be repeated if possible. Billions of lives are at stake, and if you know something, you have to tell me now!"

My, my, someone is tired of being beaten into the ground by random monsters.

This would be enjoyable if I hadn't had a similar reaction when it was first explained to me.

"You can say whatever you like, but as far as that community is concerned we are worth writing off. Basically, Earth Bet is filled with caricatures of people, not actual victims. The only ones who visit variants of our reality either revel in the chaos like every other S Class threat, or try to "fix things" by taking some grand position in society. Their abilities can mimic the strongest Parahuman powers for fun, and everything is an acceptable target for their morality."

Smirking at her symbol for a moment, I sighed. "Just picture the classical versions of the Greek Heroes. They accomplished a lot, but they also tended to break things fairly easily."

Soaking up her visible shock, I decided to move things along. "That being said, Vortex didn't intend to come to Earth Bet exactly. He was looking for a student using a technique that can get kind of random. When he realized where he was, he destroyed Leviathan mostly to relieve the stress. But, I was lucky enough to meet his criteria so the technique worked more or less. Of the three possibilities it found, I was the best fit. Panacea had gone round the bend a bit too far while Vista was still a bit young to survive his training. All in all, I was just the best of a bad hand."

That being said, she had done her best and had become better for it. Her teacher would not ask for anything less.

Freezing, Alexandria began tapping on the table again. Time for a new game then?

Gaping at the two before her, Miss Militia felt her weapon cycle from a knife to a flame thrower. At this point, she was unsure who would be her preferred target. "That is insane."

Legend closed his eyes in pain. "No, that sounds about right. We debriefed Vortex for nearly twenty minutes before the incident with the Undersiders and Skitter. My impression was that we were boring and distracting him. Our offers for a position in the Protectorate or other forms of support seemed to insult his sensibilities. Now we know why."

Director Piggot was gripping the windowsill just hard enough to draw blood. "I knew our world was crazy, but being under a social quarantine to anyone who might help us. Because they think we DESERVE it? This can never get out."

Before the patriotic cape could interject, Alexandria continued the interrogation.

"You said that they would go to variants of our world. What specifically did you mean by that."

Taylor Hebert, still unmasked and appearing almost bemused replied. "You know how Earth Aleph and Earth Bet are connected? Picture them on a single strand of string. There are more worlds on that string, but they tend to cluster in a straight line, with greater derivations the farther down the line you get. Variants are parallel to this world string, with nearly identical clusters lined on them. The main world is locked, but variants are easier to manipulate because of their already present changes. We are one such variant by the way."

With that, Miss Militia felt cold. She was just a dimensional, imperfect clone of an original Miss Militia?

But the information continued. "Forgive my ego, but let's use my situation as an example. In some universes, I would die during my Trigger Event. This leads to changes in everything I effected. The Undersiders would probably die because of Lung, or Sophia finally ends up in prison. One of the other bullies might Trigger from guilt. My father might even seek revenge and commit suicide by cop. Those are just minor examples of what such a variation can do. But, depending on your skill, someone like Vortex can enter a variant that is much more subtle, effectively entering a nearly perfect copy of that world. Our variant aspect is literally him visiting our world. Everything before Leviathan was identical."

The female Trimunative member leaned forward. "Did he happen to explain why we are held in such low esteem."

Rolling her eyes, the insect controller stretched. "First thing I asked. Turns out that a lot of other worlds judge a society by what they do with power. The mismanagement of Parahumans, the outright bigotry, the society we live in kind of pisses them off. Not to mention the source of Case 53's. These people are not considered saints, but they view mismanagement and ineffective torture as signs of stupid evil."

Miss Militia almost missed the twitch of Alexandria's fingers. "They know the source of the Case 53 phenomenon?"

Taylor's answering smile was all teeth. "Oh yes, and many of them find it morally repugnant. The actions that go into Case 53 creation are bad enough, but the ideology and methodology behind their creation are held up as a key reason to avoid this area. NEPEA-5 didn't do us any favors either, and the fact that the Youth Guard requirements regularly lead to the deaths of the children they are sworn to protect? Most of the sane creatures view our society as a self correcting example of Darwinism at its finest."

She suddenly frowned, "Having to take a six month course of accredited therapy so that people would stop viewing me as a psychotic monster about to pounce was annoying, even if I needed it."

With that, the observers found themselves without a word to spare.

Looking at the knowing gaze on the former moody teenager, Alexandria forced herself to calm down. Taylor Hebert, based upon her inflections and subject choice had a better than ninety percent chance of knowing about Cauldron. This interrogation just got a lot more serious. "What do you know about the Endbringers?"

Holding her hands in supplication, the brunette sighed. "Mostly rumors. It is difficult to separate theory from fantasy, even in the interdimensional community. Some of what they say seems to completely fuck with the very concept of a set of laws of physics. Other elements are either the greatest war crime in our history or a sign of severe mental illness. Given the variants out there, it is literally a matter of perspective."

Sighing again, the teenaged villain frowned. "That being said, there are several things that should be true. First, they are sandbagging a lot during their attacks. Second, most of what we see is a projection, with a controlling core at their densest point. Third, there are maybe two or three Parahumans who could reach said core, but the blowback of their destruction could theoretically crack the planet." With that, Alexandria's hopes plummeted. No matter what else was said today, the girl before her believed these facts to be the complete and utter truth.

Leaning back, Taylor gave her another, knowing smile. "At this point, though, I'm sure that you need to discuss this with a number of other very important people before deciding on anything. Go ahead now, I can wait until any case you make is voided due to screwing with my civil rights. Legal flexibility only goes so far before it becomes a violation of the Geneva Convention."

Grinding her teeth, Alexandria grabbed her arm. "Fine, I will escort you back to holding and discuss this with the Local and Chief Director. Then we can discuss your final options at great length." Rebranding was right off the table after disclosing knowledge about Cauldron, but maybe Kurt or Contessa would have an idea on how to handle this mess.

Ignoring the pressure on her arm, Taylor put back on her mask. "Oh, I'm sure we will. The narrative would expect no less."

With that, Alexandria felt a shiver down her spine beyond anything her perfect memory could previously recall.

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Training Day Worm edition (Jumpchain) by BatRou-Dawg

Misc » Book X-overs Rated: M, English, Drama & Humor, Words: 64k+, Favs: 42, Follows: 50, Published: Dec 8, 2022 Updated: Oct 21, 2023

4Chapter 2

Watching his teammate enter after dropping Taylor Hebert in containment, Legend did not waste time. "What the hell was that, Alexandria? You were supposed to try and recruit her, not attempt to choke her!"

"I am curious about your actions as well." Chief Director Costa-Brown gazed through a wall screen. At least, as far as all but two in the room were aware of. "We could have managed Skitter, but now we apparently have to handle Taylor Hebert. Bombarding her with questions and threats does not help the situation in the slightest."

The black clad Hero gazed out of Director Piggot's window for a moment before turning. "We had her slated as a Thinker One and Master Seven. The only reason that was not Master Eight is her limitations concerning controlled species and the political ramifications of further escalation."

Not knowing where she was going with this, Legend nodded. "Once we were able to properly debrief Panacea and Glory Girl on the incidents at the bank and have WEDGDG review the video evidence of her actions, it was clear that she had far more control over her swarm then previously thought." That had been a massive headache. Panacea was still stubborn about her own responsibility for the unmasking of Shadow Stalker while Glory Girl was staying close to Gallant as much as she could. Neither was particularly thrilled with Skitter, no matter what her circumstances had been, and were less than helpful until Alexandria had gotten firm.

Said Heroine turned to view the room, standing at attention. "Thinkers have tells, no matter what their level. A twitch, a speech inflection, something that can be read or reviewed if you are paying attention. She was not using that Thinker ability at all during our discussion. She was adjusting to my actions, disrupting the flow of the conversation to her benefit. Whatever else he taught her, Vortex included some fairly comprehensive antiinterrogation protocols."

Director Piggot looked at the screen with her superior and back to the cape before rubbing her temples. "I'm sorry, you were STRESS TESTING her? How exactly was that a good idea? Anything she could tell us willingly is apparently vital to dealing with the Endbringers. Especially since her instructor has decided to leave her here for some reason."

Alexandria would not be moved. "We are basing our strategy and plans around outdated information. What happened to Taylor Hebert was a combination of failures, some intentional some just poor luck. I went in expecting the same trauma that Trigger Events tend to stamp on Parahumans. It would provide a starting point, a source of understanding that would help get her on our side. Instead, every action I took was one she was able to adapt to. She did not lie that I could tell, but she guided that conversation in real time, calculated my responses and noted any tells I provided. Those are not the actions of a teenager, a Parahuman ability or dumb luck. I can think of about five former CIA assets who might be able to pull that off, and only two of them officially exist. This could affect our bargaining strategy dramatically."

Crossing his arms the leader of the Protectorate glared at his technical subordinate. "What bargaining position is that, exactly? Vortex apparently won't come back because we are interdimensional pariahs. The Endbringers have been giving us at least twenty five percent fatality rates while sandbagging. Meanwhile, our best source of information was Triggered by a Ward and set up to die by a Protectorate Hero."

Miss Militia sighed, "In addition, elements of the situation have leaked. PHO already knew that Vortex took Skitter and that she was returned at the very end of the Truce. There are parties on both sides that view her incarceration as a violation of the spirit, if not the letter of the law. That attitude could seriously impact future Endbringer fights."

The image of the Chief Director cleared her throat. "I have already consulted with Glen Chambers and he does not like our chances the longer we drag this out. Skitter was propped up as a potentially major figure because of Coil. Her actions during the Leviathan fight have already leaked in her favor. Either we have to charge her officially and go to trial, or make a deal and announce her addition to our ranks. Anything in-between would not look good."

Alexandria nodded her acceptance. "Agreed, but based on her responses a break is in order. Anything we attempt to do for intimidations sake is not likely to help our case. Get her some food, a decent change of clothes, and let her sleep. I'll try again in the morning. Meanwhile, we can discuss what we already know and what we should try to discover during the next discussion."

Miss Militia sighed, "At least, if she is telling the truth, we might be able to provide closure to the Case 53 population. It was practically the only intelligence she provided we can actually act on. Who knows? Maybe if we take action to address their complaints, this society of interdimensional travellers might change their mind and help us with the Endbringers after all.

Alexandria stilled before affecting a sigh, "That is true, but our focus must be on any information that can be provided on the Endbringers. No matter how broad the supposed rumors are, they are still better than the literal black hole of data that we currently possess."

A new morning, a plain but palatable meal and a chance to propery freshen up had done wonders for my mood. I knew that was the point, but I could not bring myself to care. Sometimes, the simple pleasures were enough to get you to face the day. While I am sure that the upcoming conversation would get boring if things continued like yesterday, that was alright. I could make my own entertainment easily enough.

I was led back to the same conference room by PRT troopers this time. It appeared that they were attempting to deescalate after yesterday's frog march back to holding. They took no special steps other than their containment foam launchers and kept their distance. No Protectorate Hero or even Ward to act as an escort. The reasons for THAT could be any number of things, so I had better gather more data before coming to a conclusion. A poor deduction was worse than no deduction at all.

Entering the space, I was directed to sit before my escorts locked me in. However, I was barely given time to stretch before Alexandria entered once more. I was honestly surprised they had not tried to use Legend as a Good Cop. Was it a sign of Alexandria's confidence, need for control, or their concerns about blaming the man for the whole threat of the Birdcage?

I idly noted Alexandria flexing a dozen muscle groups in a pattern before catching her gaze into my eyes.

That cheeky bitch! She was letting me know any tells she provided were by choice and not outside her control. So she knew I could track them and was rubbing it in my face.

I could not help but smile. This was going to be significantly trickier than yesterday's discussion.

Nodding a welcome, Alexandria took charge without hesitation. It was almost like looking into a twisted mirror. "Good morning, Taylor. I hope you slept well because we have a lot of ground to cover. To save time, I was hoping that we could dispense with the games from yesterday."

Hmmm, a new pattern and protocol with the same goal. It seemed like she could adapt while staying under control.

How nice to know that the Hero's capabilities were not in question.

Smirking through my mask, I made a point of tapping the table in the same steady beat she had effected the other day. "I don't mind the occasional game, but if you want to get something more productive done today, I suppose I could indulge." It was a petty gesture, but they really should have included a decent cup of tea with breakfast. At this point, I was sure Alexandria could probably rattle off my preferred blends and temperature ranges on command.

Pretending to ignore my tapping finger, the Heroine placed her hands on the table. A sign of trust and another warning. A hidden hand could do much, but a visible hand could get close surprisingly quick. "You covered a number of points of interest, and we are willing to negotiate in good faith for a proper debriefing. Any actionable data you provide will be considered during our negotiations for your situation. We will, of course, make sure that you are able to meet with the legal representation of your choice before signing anything. Is that enough to continue?"

Maintaining my steady tap, tap, tap on the table, I reviewed the agreement. Not a bad one for continuing the conversation, but with a number of qualifiers. How to play this? "So, in other words, I could provide you the secrets of Case 53's, the Endbringers and a proper understanding of Earth Bet's place in the Multiverse. However, if politics, or resources or departmental issues "just happened" to come up due to some minor point of order, not a bit of it would impact my own treatment. Such a lovely offer."

Making the offer in the first place was a decent step, but wording it like that was one part trap, one part test. However, being reactive was going to get me nowhere. Let us change the timing a bit. "However, while yesterday gave you a taste, I think it is only fair to ensure you know what you are buying. I'll give you a bit of context for interdimensional culture, and in return you do something for me. Completely separate from any deal we happen to negotiate with a lawyer in the room, and also legal as can be."

I could almost hear Alexandria's mental count before responding. Too quick a response and she looks weak, too slow and she looks like she is trying to make an excuse. She pulls it off perfectly of course. "As a gesture of good will, and as long as the action is not illegal or leads to illegal actions, I can tentatively agree to that. Depending upon what the specifics are, which we would agree to before proceeding."

Ah, excellent, this is the most reasonable she has been so far! Too bad it will probably not last during our follow up conversations.

Smiling in anticipation, I leaned forward, discarding the tapping for now. This would be a much more satisfying annoyance to the Heroes in general. "I believe that you noticed the potential held by one Shadow Stalker, a.k.a. Sophia Hess during the Leviathan fight. Deciding that she is wasted in Brockton Bay, you are going to transfer her to L.A. to take under your personal wing. While there, you will do everything you can to ensure that she becomes an actual hero."

I almost feel the moment when she forces herself to maintain motion instead of freezing again. It was the little things that demonstrated just how powerful and dangerous Alexandria truly was. "I admit that I am surprised that you are asking for something so mundane. Is there a particular reason for it?"

Assured that I could get Shadow Stalker far away from here, I flash some teeth. Thank you Bitch for the proper lessons. "One of those things you pick up from listening to your father try to negotiate is that you never ask for something that the other side cannot do. My official requests should be a matter of law. However, I know they are impossible at this time for such a minor bit of information. So an official, live streamed view of Shadow Stalker getting welcomed in person to L.A. tonight will have to do. Something that I doubt she will enjoy."

Narrowing his eyes, Legend continued to view the next stage of negotiation through the one way glass. "Ouch, I felt the cynicism cut from here." Miss Militia's wince and Director Piggot's scowl mirrored his mood precisely.

Shaking her head, the local Director sighed. "I am almost tempted to ask for the name of her therapist and what would be required to get a house call. I've dealt with Parahumans for years, and if any of them had a chance to put the screws to the people behind their Trigger Events, no political justification would be enough to stop them."

Miss Militia closed her eyes in response. "I cannot disagree. What concerns me is how quickly she assumed that we would be unwilling to incarcerate Shadow Stalker or Armsmaster for their crimes. No one that young should be this jaded."

Alexandria apparently shared their sentiment. "I am curious why you assume that Shadow Stalker would be allowed free reign at all. Our research into your circumstances provided enough evidence to punish her severely. It almost seems like you are undervaluing your side of the bargain here. If we are not playing games, then I would like to hear your reasoning."

Tilting her head, the girl removed her half mask, becoming Taylor Hebert once again. "I am not undervaluing my offering at all. I am just making sure that Sophia is actually punished while no longer being a threat to me in any real fashion."

That caught everyone's attention rather abruptly.

Smiling, Taylor continued. "Did you know that she also tried to kill Grue as a Ward? I was treated to Regent waxing on and on about the couch they had to throw out due to blood stains and I've seen the scar. By now, I'm sure someone has informed Sophia that I know her identity and am in the building. I'm fairly sure that the only reason that she hasn't tried to kill me here is the number of witnesses and whatever steps you took to contain her while researching my circumstances."

Legend looked at his companions in shock. "Did you know anything about this?"

Miss Militia frowned under her mask, weapon changing into a taser for no apparent reason. "When reviewing her records and talking with the other Wards, certain things did come up. Sophia had a habit of going missing on patrols, only to turn up with bound suspects and saved civilians. She joined as Triumph was transitioning to the Protectorate, and as near as I can tell, he let certain things slide in order to keep the peace. However, while she expressed her hatred of Grue repeatedly, I was not aware that she had almost successfully killed him."

Director Piggot pinched her nose. "That attitude was one of the things that prevented her from being sent against the Undersiders. Apparently, Gallant did try to share his concerns, but her caseworker got in the way. His empathy provides information on what someone is feeling, not the context behind those feelings. That was enough ambiguity to ensure any investigation was shut down before it began."

Alexandria chose that moment to intercede. "I can understand your sentiment, but am still somewhat confused. Why do you think that putting Shadow Stalker under my command, publicly, is worse than sending her to prison? Her crimes are not quite at the level of the Birdcage, but a Federal Prison or Parahuman Asylum would both be on the table."

Taylor frowned, "I thought we were not going to be playing any games Alexandria. You know better than that. I didn't say that serving you would be worse. I said that I was making sure she would be removed as a threat and punished. They aren't the same thing at all."

The Heroine froze before nodding. "Fair enough. I believe I have an idea of what you are going for, but please, spell it out for me. You have gotten trickier while away and I want a proper guideline for our information exchange. I am beginning to suspect seven additional years is on the light side."

Snorting, the young woman shook her head. "Flattery will get you nowhere, but I don't see the harm. You are taking quite a bit on faith. So let me be clear. For their actions, both Shadow Stalker and Armsmaster should be sent to prison. My Trigger Event alone could be viewed as a form of bioterrorism if the prosecutor was feeling creative while Armsmaster broke the Truce and specifically targeted villains during an Endbringer fight."

At that point, Taylor seemed to freeze completely, with only her mouth moving. "However, I doubt that the PR in the PRT would allow that to happen. Both have their advocates, both have their optics, and both would splatter their respective organizations if it went to trial. So, I'm guessing that Shadow Stalker would be held on some form of house arrest while Armsmaster rebrands. Of course, since this IS Brockton Bay, the local office would have a crisis come up that would require their help, emergency powers would be invoked and suddenly I have an arrow shoved in my throat. Removing Sophia to a jurisdiction that can keep her under control and quietly retire her if reformation is impossible is better than trusting the local branch to do their jobs."

Tilting her head at the speech, Alexandria nodded. "That is a fair summation. I'll even carry her to L.A. myself and arrange for a television in your cell by the six o'clock news. Would that work?"

Returning to her relaxed state, Taylor smiled. "Indeed. That is perfectly acceptable. Why don't you make the arrangements and then I can hold up my side of the bargain. Oh, may I have some tea? This could take a while."

Standing, the Heroine nodded. "Of course, thank you for your patience. Would Earl Grey work for you? I'm afraid that they only have bags in the building, but it's a decent blend at least."

Legend could barely hear the answering laughter over the grinding of Director Piggot's teeth.

Looking at the girl before her, Alexandria took in every movement, action and reaction. Taylor Hebert, despite her best efforts, was still something of a puzzle, and she had found herself more engaged than expected. The bits and pieces of information provided had been curious, but the planning and reactions shown had sent up some very red flags.

Something told her that knowledge of Cauldron might be amongst the least dangerous bits of information that the younger Parahuman possessed.

Which was a shame, really. If either she or Legend had managed to recruit the girl before everything became that perfect storm of suck, who knows how far they could have gone together?

Taking another sip of her tea, Taylor Hebert smiled. "Excellent, just what the doctor ordered. Since we are on the same page, I believe that it is time to fulfill my side of the deal. Today, we will be discussing the issue of Names."

Stilling her reactions to zero, the Heroine could hear the capitalization of the word. Hopefully, this would be worth transporting a self entitled criminal Ward for an Emergency Press Conference tonight.

Noting her attention, Taylor began to lecture. "Names, by their nature, provide definition. This can mean one of two things. The person named can define what it means. Or, the person can be defined by what it means. Your own PR department does it all the time. I was named Skitter as in, something small that makes noise as it passes by. I redefined that into a swarm that is too close once you can hear it. When dealing with the Multiverse, this sort of effect is more than PR."

Noting the example given, the Heroine appreciated the honesty. Although, after everything was said and done, she was going to suggest some remedial training for the Protectorate ENE on how to pay closer attention to code names backfiring on them.

Pausing for another sip of tea, Taylor continued. "When you start operating at a multidimensional level, a Name can provide much more information than it appears. When I first started out, Vortex often avoided naming me whenever possible. He explained that it prevented others from knowing my limits or position, which would indicate I was under his protection. Those he did provide my name to were often trusted due to long association or needed for some part of my training. He would just use Taylor, which would translate into something along the lines of "one-who-seeks-knowledge-but-trusts-me-to-guide-them." The data density of a Name can get a little insane, especially when dealing with non-human species."

Blinking at her commentary about non-human species, Alexandria noted a slight eye twitch that could be mistaken for a wink. That had some disturbing connotations. "This is fairly interesting. Did you meet many other species?"

Smirking at the dodge, Taylor continued her lecture. "It wasn't unheard of. Many beings would congregate in neutral territories in order to share information or exchange ideas. Some were openly worshiped as deities in their own culture, so money was less useful than you would expect. They were particularly fond of using Names as payment or to define their territories. After all, one fairly famous example of the power of Naming can be found in our own culture. It's been a while, but I believe it goes, "Let there be Light?""

At that point, Alexandria was beginning to wish for her own cup of tea. "That almost sounds like they were claiming to practice magic? Or perhaps, miracles?"

Finishing her own cup, Taylor shrugged. "That is a matter of debate. Our society tends to view magic based upon sleight of hand, stage productions, or extreme examples like Myrddin. However, they can use words as a Shaker effect to redefine reality to some degree. It varies from being to being and not everyone can do it. Plus there are a number of limitations involved. But it can happen, it is not a Parahuman power and it can be learned. If they happen to call the effect magic, or someone without talent observes and calls it a miracle, I sure as hell am not going to debate the semantics with them."

The frustrating thing about this conversation for Alexandria was the complete lack of lies. It was almost like an elementary schooler reading the ABC's aloud. But that meant that either Taylor Hebert was telling the truth and they were going to have to adapt a rather whimsical vocabulary when dealing with the rest of the Multiverse, or she was lying and this was a waste of time. Of course, thirty years ago humans couldn't fly under their own power, so there was no easy way to tell either way.

Still, she could not simply take everything being said as gospel. That would just be foolish. "If I were you, I would have looked into how this affected Earth Bet. Do you have any examples that we can verify? Some context that could help us better understand this phenomenon?"

Leaning back, Taylor bit her lip. "If you are asking me to rewrite reality by saying a few phrases, I'm going to have to disappoint you. My aptitude is weak enough with that sort of technique that it takes a prohibitively long amount of time to accomplish much. The best I can do is provide the profile of a few Named."

Well, that sounded ominous.

The Director began to rub her temples. "So, I lost a Ward, problematic as they were, in a big, public spectacle. All so that we can talk to a Parahuman, already in our custody, about magic spells. Isn't that just great."

Sighing in frustration, Legend fixed Piggot with a look. "You lost a Ward who was on criminal probation yet still managed to commit crimes on your watch. Be thankful we arranged for Weld and Flechette to come and pick up the slack. Either way it's doubtful you are getting your hands on Ms. Hebert. While unusual, we are literally getting a crash course on cultural elements from beyond our Universe. Some suspension of disbelief would be appreciated."

Before she could reply, Alexandria continued the interrogation. "Please, clarify what the difference is between a Name and Named."

Closing her eyes, Taylor replied. "The difference is not exactly subtle. A Name, as I previously mentioned, could be considered a Shaker effect that can change reality. Named are individuals, locations or key events that help define a Reality or Dimension, depending on the school of thought you believe in. They are often used as a short hand when describing a specific reality to others, focusing on central moments and individuals that a traveller is likely to encounter. They are not always the most flattering, but they can be fairly broad depending on the context. Learning about a few Named helped me explain Earth Bet to others."

Miss Militia leaned forward. "That is actually pretty fascinating. A vocal abriviation that can provide so much information would be very helpful."

Alexandria apparently agreed. "I would like to hear one of these Named definitions if you don't mind."

Taylor shrugged, "That is not a problem, just be aware that it can be a bit disorienting." Seeing the Heroine nod her agreement, the younger Parahuman then...SPOKE.

Miss Militia staggered, Legend grabbed his head, and Director Piggot almost launched herself into a wall to get away from the glass.

Alexandria visibility trembled slightly. As far as her normal expressions went, she was almost gasping in terror. "I think...that this is the point that we should stop for the day. I'll have the guards send you back to your cell. But first, you said you knew other... Named?"

Replacing her mask, Taylor smiled before going to the door to meet her escort. "Oh, one or two others at least. It tends to shift depending on the environment." With that, she left with her head held high.

The four leaders returned to Director Piggot's office. Alexandria made sure to seal the door before calling out to the room. "Dragon."

A moment later, the Canadian Tinker was on the wall screen. "Hello Alexandria, how can I help you?"

Facing the image and making sure not to react to the others in the room, the Heroine spoke. "Were you monitoring the interrogation room we have been using with Ms. Hebert?"

Shaking her head, the Tinker replied, "No, as per your instructions I have been keeping an eye on Armsmaster as part of his house arrest. Do you need me to review any recordings?"

Sighing, Alexandria replied. "Epsilon, Delta Delta Omega Four."

Flickering, Dragon replied. "Charlie, Tango Alpha Five. Master Stranger protocols are now in effect for you and anyone else in the room. Abbreviated emergency reviews will proceed immediately. Director Piggot, please provide last Wednesdays Blue Code."

A shaken Piggot replied, "The small duck found it's rubber like I find my wine. Rarely but with enthusiasm."

Turning to the local Protectorate leader, Dragon continued the screening. "Miss Militia, what must we always guard against?"

The weapon in her hand shifted a dozen times before the she pocketed a knife and replied. "Those who seek opportunity in Chaos."

Facing Legend, the Tinker blinked twice, "Legend, how many fingers am I holding up?"

Legend sighed, "Three, two to poke my eyes out and one to remove the dust from your own."

Facing the last Hero, Dragon paused. "Alexandria, as per the Omega protocol, you are the highest level risk. Therefore, under the advanced password algorithm, please list the thirty two number password, replacing digit number seven and twenty seven in sequence with the sum of their parts, and recite at exactly two point four times the standard speed."

Nodding, the black clad Heroine almost seemed to release a vibration from her throat.

Blinking four times, Dragon nodded. "Password confirmed. Epsilon Charlie Echo Delta."

Director Piggot took the opportunity to reply, "Sigma, Sigma Theta."

Smiling, Dragon replied. "Excellent. It's not as good as a three day stay in confinement, but you have passed the protocols. Did you want me to review the phenomenon that sparked an emergency Master Stranger short hand review?"

Sitting in front of the Directors desk, Alexandria shook her head. "Not at this time. Please return to your prior duties."

Nodding, Dragon left the screen.

The room was silent before Miss Militia turned to the female Triumvirate member. "Ma'am, what WAS that? One moment Taylor Hebert was about to speak, and the next thing it was this blank moment in time."

Frowning, Alexandria turned to the others, "Does that sum up your own experiences as well?"

Legend frowned, "For me, it was closer to a flood of white noise. I almost entered my Breaker state to regain my balance."

Director Piggot sighed. "I just had a moment of sudden, directed dread that had no source. I have never felt anything like it."

Leaning back into her seat, the black clad Heroine sighed. "I see, some sort of information security. Impressive and disturbing. My experience was somewhat different. As far as I could tell, Taylor did, and yet did not state three words."

Legend, confused by his teammates pensive mood, took the bull by the horns. "Well, don't keep us in suspense. What did she say?"

Glancing at the ceiling, Alexandria spoke without the dramatics of their previous experience. "Piggot the Bigot."

The room seemed to freeze before the director turned red, "You are telling me that Taylor Hebert had us jumping through hoops all morning just to call me a Bigot!?"

Lancing the woman with her gaze, the Heroine frowned. "I'm afraid it was much more than that. She only said those three words, but I heard an in-depth analysis of your character, motivations and personal history. It was one part debriefing, one part PHO debate and one part autobiography. Quite frankly, if put to paper, it would probably fill a thousand pages. That level of detail on one of our Directors being thrown around so casually is most concerning."

Miss Militia shook her head "I'm sorry, but all that information came from so little context? How accurate could it be?"

Looking at the still fuming woman in front of her, Alexandria began reciting from memory, "Item twenty seven of the base line for Emily Piggot. Note her hypocrisy in refusing Parahuman healing, undermining her position and weakening her command. Living in the same hometown as the miracle healer Panacea, using said healer on her troops and Wards without taking advantage herself presents an image of someone who cannot trust a Parahuman, but is willing to use them for everything except self improvement. If security was her concern, no Ward would get within a hundred feet of New Wave. Yet this "do as I say, not as I do" mentality is clear as far as her interaction with Parahumans she works with and those under her command demonstrates."

Seeing everyone turn pale at the pronouncement, Alexandria nodded. "It goes on like that, in great detail. Now, imagine that the rest of us were Named as well. Secret identities, personal tactical information, and mental stress points would be there for anyone to discover. Yet, it is casually handed out like driving directions. What is worse is that Ms. Hebert could theoretically have all the leverage she needs to make things difficult beyond expectations."

Seeing no response, the Heroine nodded before standing. "I am going to retrieve Shadow Stalker for her big debut tonight. Director Piggot, you are going to clear this up with her family and you Miss Militia are going to start preparing the Wards for the reasons behind Shadow Stalker's relocation. Let's keep those lines of communication open. Also, don't forget to arrange for a television for her to view the conference. Legend, walk with me. I think we are going to have to chat once I have things under control in L.A. We can talk with Ms. Hebert again in another day or two."

With that, the two Triumvirate members left the office in silence.

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Training Day Worm edition (Jumpchain) by BatRou-Dawg

Misc » Book X-overs Rated: M, English, Drama & Humor, Words: 64k+, Favs: 42, Follows: 50, Published: Dec 8, 2022 Updated: Oct 21, 2023

4Chapter 3

Leading her newest Ward away from the stage, the comments and questions from the press ringing in their ears, Alexandria enjoyed the twitching of the girl before her. After all, only villains got ankle bracelets. Heroes who were in the shit got Tinkertech synthetic skin patches, complete with a micro-taser, on the spine to make sure they did not run away.

A new Ward transfer to L.A. was lauded as a chance for a particularly powerful or skilled Parahuman to be groomed for a leadership position. The papers would play up the glorious future that Shadow Stalker had before her. The people with brains would notice how quickly the transfer happened, Alexandria's habit of picking up problem children, and THEIR habit of not lasting a year before retiring due to a "family issue". The Elite even ran a betting pool on what category a particular Ward would fall into.

However, it seemed like now was as good a chance as any to even the odds. Knowing that they had finally entered the blind spot she had been waiting for, Alexandria grabbed Shadow Stalker and slammed her against the wall. "Before you head to your quarters for the evening, I thought we should have a little chat." Shadow Stalker instinctively phased, only to bite back a scream when the restrains shocked her spine.

Twitching a finger before the teenagers mask, the Heroine tisked. "You get that one for free, but don't try it again. This is not Brockton Bay, and L.A. has its own rules. Rule one, you do not fuck with Alexandria. Rule two, if you are in the shit, everyone here outranks you. Rule three, if someone who outranks you says to jump into a wood chipper, you do not hesitate. Am I clear?"

Grabbing at the taller woman's arm, Shadow Stalker pulled with all her might. "Let me go you crazy bitch! You can't treat me like this!" Enjoying the soundproofing they used in the halls and the look of frustration the girl before her was projecting, the Triumvirate member compared the struggles with her other exploits. It did not even rank in the top one million.

Lifting the Ward to her eye level, Alexandria scoffed. "Why not? Isn't this what the strong do to the weak? Make no mistake, you are weak here. You COULD be strong, but we will have to see if you can pull it off. Right now, you have no allies and everyone who matters knows what you are capable of. So don't expect a enabling case worker, a passive Wards leader or a wealthy and stupid charity case complete with lawyer father to come running to defend you. Either grow up, do your time and get better, or be stripped of your identity and go to jail. The most you could hope for at that point would be that Shadow Stalkers "death" would be used as a casus belli to take down an Elite cell."

Letting the girl drop to the ground, the woman leaned over. "I've dealt with problem children before, but few as bad as you. I know all the tricks, I know all the plays, and I make sure that the people I trust know them as well. Go missing on one patrol, try to spin one sob story to the Youth Guard and you had better hope they take care of it. Otherwise, I will rain fire upon you from on high. Now, are we on the same page Sophia?"

Flaring impotently, the teen nodded once.

Smiling, Alexandria dragged the Ward to her feet. "Good. Now, let's get you situated. Come along Stalker." Helpless to refuse, Shadow Stalker followed, shaking in rage. It would be almost cute if not for her tendency to follow through. Better schedule extra therapy and conditioning with Sargent Harris.

Seeing one of her rising stars waiting for them at the end of the hallway, the Heroine waved a greeting. The golden faced woman waved back. "Excellent, this saves me a stop. Shadow Stalker, meet Arbiter. She is currently transitioning into her Protectorate duties and as such will be acting as your mentor. Assume that anything she says, comes directly from me."

Turning to her subordinate, Alexandria sighed. "Can you get her settled in for the night? Legend and I have a meeting and there are a few things that need to be straightened out before I return to Brockton Bay."

Nodding, Arbiter replied in her signature melodic tone. "Of course Ma'am. I'll get her taken care of properly."

Pushing Sophia Hess forward, she offered her thanks before flying down the opposite corridor. Seeing her fellow Triumvirate member waiting for her, Alexandria wasted no time before flying straight up from the exit, Legend hot on her heals. At their speed, it took mere seconds before L.A. was far behind them. Only then did she speak the words that had been on the tip of her tongue for hours. "Door to Cauldron."

Doctor Mother looked up from her paperwork, noting that Legend and Alexandria had finally arrived. It was unusual for the Heroine to schedule an all hands meeting, but given the circumstances she could hardly blame them. Particularly when dealing with something that could finally change the current fate of Earth Bet. "Nice of you to join us. Problems with your new Ward?"

Taking her place at the table with Legend, Alexandria removed her helmet. "Not yet, but give her time. Shadow Stalker has an overinflated ego and lacks the brains to balance it out. Six months of retraining at a minimum before I would trust her on patrol. Hopefully, Arbiter will be able to make something of the brat. But she is not why we are here."

Leaning forward, the Number Man folded his hands together. "Indeed. The death of an Endbringer and the one good lead we have on the individual who did it. How has Ms. Hebert been doing as a guest of the PRT?"

Sharing a look, Alexandria waved Legend to start. "She is playing dominance games, but is also much more composed than she has any right to be. It's like dealing with a veteran special forces retiree. Of course, we haven't put her through any power testing. But even after being kept in an insect free environment for days she is as cool as a cucumber. Watching her interrogations so far were strange as well. It was as if Alexandria was talking to a de-aged clone at times."

Scoffing, Eidolon turned to their other teammate. "Really? Is she playing dress up in solitary? Trying to act out a childhood fantasy?"

Meeting his look with one of her own, Alexandria shook her head. "There are definitely signs of time dilation there. If she is sixteen I'll eat my helmet. I'll admit, the comparison is not unwarranted. I'm fairly sure her initial costume designs were based off of my look. But that is not even in the top five reasons why this disturbs me."

Contessa looked over before blinking. "What...what did she do exactly? Something is not right..."

With that pronouncement, everyone turned to Alexandria at once. Putting her head in her hands, the would be Heroine spoke. "Well, I guess the first thing she did was open her mouth. Director Piggot and Miss Militia are observing the interrogations, so I have been focusing their attention on obvious issues or what they want to hear. But they lacked the context to fully understand what was said. Something that I am fairly sure that Hebert knew and is laughing at me over."

Frowning, the leader of Cauldron leaned forward. "Alexandria, what are you talking about?"

Facing them, the Triumvirate member sighed. "She knows about Cauldron. She knows about the Entities. So does the rest of reality, and as far as they are concerned, we have made our bed and can lie in it." With that, everyone began thinking they needed a drink.

Legend might have been considered inspiring and somewhat naive by his colleagues, but he was not stupid. Several comments from the last two days came together at once in a moment of perfect, crystal clarity. "So, Cauldron created Case 53's?" Seeing everyone jump at his claim, only confirmed it as truth.

Contessa looked at him and Alexandria before removing her fedora and gripping the table. "How are you doing that? I am running Paths to protect the discovery of Cauldron and our secrets, but they keep getting diverted around both of you. It's almost like an adaptive blind spot."

Looking at the ceiling, Alexandria sighed. "Well, isn't that interesting. Taylor you sneaky, sneaky bitch."

Slamming her hand down on the table, Doctor Mother roared. "Enough distractions! Alexandria, what have you discovered? What, exactly did Taylor Hebert do that is affecting the Path like this? We need more information so that we can adapt."

Meeting the leaders fury with an almost unnatural calm, the Heroine began. "After confirming that she has been gone for a minimum of seven years and has received significant antiinterrogation training, we began to discuss the issue of Vortex and the Endbringers. He came here by accident, looking for potential students of some sort. Skitter, Panacea and Vista were considered before he made his final choice. However, his... community I guess you could call them is not very impressed with our neck of the woods."

Glaring at the people he had thought of as friends, Legend barked out a laugh. "Basically, they think we're short sighted barbarians. They judge a society on what they do with power. The case 53's, the dehumanizing of Parahumans and the political actions taken to keep them under control are seen as "stupid evil." As a result, they view our part of the Multiverse as a self correcting problem. Anyone who involves themselves in our issues are either crazy or looking for a target rich environment without consequence."

Eidolon seemed to collapse on himself. "They are willing to just write us off? I don't even mean Cauldron, but there are trillions of lives across thousands of worlds! All of that could be snuffed out and they just don't care?"

Leaning back, Alexandria met his despair with complete if somewhat manic calm. "We have not had a chance to discuss the sheer size of the Multiverse outside our own reality cluster yet, but given the scope of what has been covered so far, it might be a drop in the bucket."

Contessa focused completely on Alexandria, her frown growing more and more pronounced. "You have realized something significant but are hesitating. What do you know that I can't seem to get a handle on? Rebecca, what exactly did she do?"

Taking a breath, Alexandria replied. "As you know, taking Shadow Stalker out of Brockton Bay was meant to be a good will action in order to open lines of communication. In return, Ms. Hebert explained a very interesting concept that is used as one part currency, one part status symbol in the form of a universal Shaker ability. Names with a capital N. These beings can use this ability to redefine reality with a word."

Eyes lighting up, the Number Man leaned forward. "Fascinating, that sounds like a very useful and versatile ability. It can be taught?"

Legend shrugged. "Apparently, but there is a matter of natural aptitude. Ms. Hebert claimed to have learned the basics, but that her level of skill made demonstrations cost prohibitive in terms of both time and effort."

Snorting, Alexandria continued the narrative. "That being said, she did demonstrate a related ability by describing something she called a Named. An individual, location or event that significantly effects the world, and can be used to help summarize the Universe to any potential travelers. She chose to give me Director Piggot's Name. The experience negatively affected Legend, Piggot and Miss Militia who were listening in. I was able to understand her, but removed myself from the room and had Dragon verify our respective mental states via an emergency Master Stranger review. I emphasized a negative example of her description to verify the information's accuracy and dissuade any further questions. They had no idea what I got from it."

Narrowing her eyes, Contessa leaned forward. "You believe this phenomenon is the source of your sudden development as adapting blindspots."

Nodding, the Heroine replied. "Most likely. Taylor Hebert provided a three word description of Director Piggot, namely "Piggot the Bigot." I informed them that I ended up with nearly a thousand pages of data about her motivations, past experiences and overall personality. The thing is, I was underselling it by a significant amount. The information deals not only with her, but her interactions with other parties in this and any number of alternative iterations. It is extremely comprehensive."

Eyes widening, Doctor Mother leaned forward. "That is terrifying yet fascinating. What sort of data can you provide?"

Meeting her leaders gaze without hesitation, Alexandria began to recite from memory. "Item forty six of base line variant seven of Emily Piggot. When properly healed by Panacea and equipped to match her command, she is an ideal candidate to kill Jack Slash of the Slaughterhouse Nine. As an unpowered human, she is not subject to Jack's secondary Master effect that targets the motivations of other Parahuman powers. Coupled with her training and sheer determination, she will take him down, even if it means her own death."

Leaning back, the Number Man appeared to mumble for a moment before sighing. "An ability to communicate with Passengers directly, to understand the motivations of their hosts, allowing him to manipulate their actions as he sees fit. Coupled with his ability to communicate with an edged blade as a cover, the expression probably comes from a communication hub to allow better coordination between passengers or Entities themselves. That would explain quite a bit about Jack Slash."

Gasping, Doctor Mother leaned back in her chair. "She insults a Director in the PRT and we gain valuable intelligence about a Parahuman we have not been able to properly adapt to. All because he understands and targets anyone with powers. I'll get some non powered resources to develop better Slaughterhouse Nine protocols. Rebecca, this is amazing! You have to provide us with everything you can for proper review."

Rubbing her forehead, said flying brick nodded. "I'll do so as quickly as I can once this meeting is over. But be very careful. There is one aspect of this that is throwing me off. That is probably causing the issues to the Path to Victory."

Eidolon, shaking off his previous shock, frowned. "What is it? I don't think I've heard you like this in years."

Alexandria barked a brief laugh. "That's because I haven't felt like this in years. My recall of the information is expanding and adapting in real time, after I have already heard it! More information is being provided in the background while originally provided data is being changed. I have to recall my recall in order to notice the difference. But just knowing this Named information is ALTERING my memory. That has not happened since I drank my vial."

Contessa gasped. "Since the information is being adjusted by an external source, it is affecting my ability to path your actions effectively. The fluid nature of the information exchange is adding a degree of chaos to the Path just by existing."

Frowning, Doctor Mother stood. "Go directly to a stand alone terminal and begin transcribing your first iteration of information. Then proceed to a second before providing the more up to date version. Kurt and Contessa will review the differences and try to determine a pattern. After that, I believe that you will need to get to Brockton Bay and push things forward. If Taylor Hebert can provide such useful information with an off comment, I really want to know what she can provide when motivated."

Nodding, Alexandria retrieved her helmet before leaving for the nearest computer lab.

Turning, Doctor Mother faced the unsmiling face of Legend. "In the meantime, I believe we will need to have a talk." No one remaining disagreed.

Chapter 918 - training day worm edition