Infernal Resurgence (Worm/Exalted)

09th January 2011

The next day, in the quiet moments of the morning, Danny found a moment to sit with Taylor. A mixture of emotions played on his face as he looked at his daughter, who had been through so much. He took a deep breath, then spoke with a sincere tone.

"Taylor," Danny began, "I want to apologize. I feel like I failed you, and I'm sorry for everything you had to go through."

"Dad, you didn't fail me. I know you're doing your best." Taylor responded while looking at him with a mixture of emotions.

Danny nodded, grateful for Taylor's understanding but burdened by a sense of responsibility. "I should have done more. I should have protected you better."

Taylor reached out and placed a reassuring hand on his. "Dad, you've haven't always been there for me but we're in this together, and I don't blame you for what happened."

In a moment of vulnerability, Danny decided to share a significant secret with Taylor. He took a deep breath, the weight of the revelation heavy on his shoulders.

"Taylor," Danny began, his voice carrying a mix of apprehension and honesty, "there's something I need to tell you. I am Faust."

Taylor's eyes widened in surprise, processing the revelation. "Faust? The new Cape from the paper? The one who took down the Merchants?"

Danny nodded flaring his Anima, gauging her reaction carefully. "Yes, that's me."

Taylor, after a moment of silence, spoke with a mix of astonishment and understanding, "Dad, you're Faust? I had no idea."

Taylor, still processing the revelation that her father was Faust, couldn't help but be intrigued by one particular detail. "Dad, did you really punch an explosion? Like in the newspapers?" she asked, a mixture of disbelief and curiosity in her eyes.

Danny chuckled, a warmth returning to his expression. "Yeah, I did. It sounds more dramatic than it was, but it was part of taking down the Merchants. Sometimes you have to get creative with dealing with tinker tech Tanks."

Taylor's eyes widened, a mix of awe and amusement playing on her face. "That's... pretty incredible, Dad. I had no idea you had that in you."

Danny shrugged modestly, "Well, life can surprise you sometimes. I just wanted to make things better for you and everyone in the city."

As the conversation paused, Taylor felt a need to share a secret of her own. With a tinge of shame in her voice, she confessed, "Dad, there's something I need to tell you. I have powers too, but it's nothing impressive. I can control bugs."

Danny, sensing his daughter's hesitation, responded with a reassuring smile. "Taylor, there's nothing to be ashamed of. You're not defined by your powers. What matters is how you use them and the person you choose to be."

Taylor, comforted by her father's understanding, nodded appreciatively. "I was afraid you'd be disappointed or worried about me."

Danny placed a supportive hand on her shoulder. "Taylor, I could never be disappointed in you. Your powers don't change who you are. If anything, they make you even more remarkable. Embrace them, but remember, it's your character and choices that truly define your strength."

"Dad….I want to be a Hero. just like you." Taylor suddenly blurted out.

Danny Froze, his concern for her safety flared, leading to instinctive rejection. "No."

Danny knew he had made a mistake the moment he had uttered it.

"Dad, I can't just stand by when I have these powers. I want to make a difference," Taylor argued passionately.

"Taylor, I know you want to make a difference but how about we find a way for you to use your powers properly first? Maybe consider training your abilities before going out? That way, you'll have time to get to know what you are capable of before going out with me," Danny suggested, attempting to channel her enthusiasm into a safer avenue.

He offered a supportive smile, hoping to convey his willingness to work with her rather than against her. "We can find a way for you to use your powers responsibly, maybe even consider joining the hero team I am forming. That way, you'll have support and a better understanding of your abilities before heading out into the field."

"Wait….Hero team?" Taylor asked, stunned.

"Well, Taylor, I've been working on something that might interest you. I've acquired a power that allows me to grant abilities to others. I'm in the process of transforming the Dockworkers into a powerful force, a hero team if you will," Danny explained, his eyes reflecting a mixture of determination and hope.

"I want to give ordinary people a chance to make a difference, to protect our community. And one day, you can be a part of it." he continued, gauging Taylor's reaction.

"That sounds amazing, Dad. I'd love to be a part of it and help others." Taylor said, intrigued by the idea, nodded thoughtfully before suddenly stopping.

".....wait. Dad….what are your powers?" Taylor askes suddenly with a pained expression that Danny did not miss.

He knew that she was very insecure about only having bug control compared to his….everything yet he knew that he had to be honest with her.

"I should clarify, Taylor. My power is somewhat like Eidolon's, but with a key difference. While Eidolon's powers change instantly, mine doesn't. I can't just get new powers instantly like he does, but any new abilities I get, I keep permanently," Danny explained, hoping to provide a clear understanding.

"This way, I can accumulate a diverse range of abilities over time. The ones I have are what has allowed me to become Faust and take on the entire Merchant gang, capes, tanks, all of them." he continued, gauging Taylor's reaction to this revelation.

As the conversation about their powers continued, Danny could see a growing sense of insecurity in Taylor. Her abilities, centered around bug control, seemed modest in comparison to the diverse range of powers he possessed.

"So, you can adapt to different situations and grow more powerful over time like Dauntless?" Taylor asked distracted.

Danny nodded, "Exactly. It has its advantages, but it also means I need to be careful with the powers I acquire. It's not something to be taken lightly."

"Dad," she began hesitantly, "I can't help but feel a bit... useless. Your powers are so versatile, and I'm stuck with bug control. What difference can I really make?"

Danny, sensing his daughter's insecurity, reassured her. "Taylor, your powers might seem modest, but they're unique and powerful in their own way. Controlling bugs can be incredibly versatile and strategic. It's not about the scale of your abilities; it's about how you use them and the impact you can make."

He continued, "We all bring something different to the table. Your skills, combined with the abilities of others on the team, will create a well-rounded force for good. Every power has its strengths, and I believe in your ability to make a significant contribution."

"Daniel," the voice spoke to Danny suddenly, "Keeping Taylor safe is your priority and thus a key part of your goals. You powers exist to serve you and help you achieve your goals. Thus consider making a deal with her, proposing that she refrains from intentionally going out to fight crime until she has mastered her powers. This way, she can focus on training and development, ensuring a safer and more controlled progression and your desire is satisfied as well."

Seeking assurance about the safety of the proposed deal, Danny inquired with a hint of caution, "Is this deal safe? Can we really make it work without compromising Taylor's well-being?"

The voice, addressing Danny's concerns, clarified the nature of the deal. "There is no risk to her soul in this arrangement. The rewards are contingent on her success. If she succeeds in mastering her powers and upholding the terms of the agreement, she will reap the promised benefits. However, if she fails, there will be no bestowal of power."

As Danny considered the details of the agreement, he raised a practical concern. "I don't currently have the ability to grant Taylor any powers. How can we proceed with this deal?"

The voice responded, offering a solution, "Simply acknowledge the debt without specifying a particular power or a specific timeframe. By doing so, you create a flexible arrangement. When the time comes that you have the ability to grant powers, you can fulfill the agreement without compromising the terms. This way, there's no need to promise a specific power or set a rigid timeline."

The voice, resonating with a sense of certainty, continued, "If the oath is worded properly, it can provide a safeguard. Clearly define the terms of the agreement, ensuring that Taylor refrains from intentionally going out to fight crime until she has mastered her powers. The wording is crucial, and if done correctly, it will establish a protective measure."

CHOICE TIME:
[] Follow the Voice's advice. This locks 1 AP per Week devoted to training Taylor. She gets 10xp per Week that she goes without fighting. This ends until she masters all aspects of her powers around the end of the 3rd week, provided you roll well.
or
[] Do not follow the Voice's advice. AP remains uncommitted.
[] Talk to her about the bullying. Get her Diary if you roll well and she talks to the lawyers.
or
[] Do not talk to her about the bullying. Less proof but bad rolls do not negatively affect Taylor's recovery.

NOTE: I am avoiding putting in rolls to make life easier. Hope this is fine with you guys. If WP is sent or any other messages, I will post it but otherwise, now that the mechanics have been displayed, I will refrain from posting rolls unless you guys ask for it.

08th January 2011

"Taylor," Danny began, "I should tell you more about the source of my abilities. Part of my power involves making oaths and fulfilling them. When I promise something or make a commitment, it becomes a part of my power. It's what grants me the ability to grant powers to others."

He paused, gauging Taylor's reaction before continuing, "Fulfilling the oath is essential, and it ties into the overall balance of my abilities."

Danny, looking at Taylor, felt it was important to emphasize the potential benefits of fulfilling their promises. "Taylor, if you fulfill your promise to me, focusing on mastering your powers before going out to fight crime, there's a possibility that I can grant you additional powers in the future."

He paused then continued, "I want you to succeed and become the hero you aspire to be. By taking the time to master your current abilities, you'll be better prepared for whatever challenges come your way."

Taylor, though perhaps feeling a sense of reluctance, recognized the importance of her father's guidance and the potential benefits of their agreement.

With a nod, she conveyed her acceptance, "Alright, Dad. I'll focus on mastering my powers first before jumping into the heroics. If there's a chance for more abilities later, I want to be ready for them."

Lost 1 Willpower-> Now at 5 / 7

Danny, relieved, expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Taylor. I know it's a lot to take in, but I believe you will become a formidable force for good when the time is right."

As the conversation shifted, a momentary pause hung in the air. Danny, with a tentative tone, decided to broach a sensitive topic. "Taylor, I know we've been dealing with a lot, but I wanted to talk about the bullying you've been facing at school. It's important that we address it and find a way to handle the situation."

Taylor, who had been bracing herself for this discussion, felt a surge of frustration and indignation at the mention of the ongoing bullying.

"Dad, we've got bigger things to worry about right now. I can handle myself. Besides, focusing on mastering my powers is more important than dealing with those idiots at school." She fought back, her voice carrying a mix of defiance and emotion,

Danny, recognizing her stubbornness, nodded understandingly. "I hear you, Taylor. But your well-being is my top priority, and I can't ignore what you're going through. We'll find a way to address both the bullying and your power development. You don't have to face it alone."

"Dad, I tried complaining to the teachers but they were useless! I've been dealing with this bullying for so long, and what have they done? Nothing! They turn a blind eye, or worse, they make excuses. 'Kids will be kids,' they say. But it's not just harmless teasing; it's relentless bullying. I've had enough, and I don't need empty promises anymore!" Taylor said, feeling nothing but frustration and anger.

She immediately let it all out and launched into a passionate rant about the perceived ineffectiveness of the teachers in addressing the bullying at school. Her words flowed freely and loosely as she finally let out years of pent up emotions.

Taking a deep breath to calm himself, he began, "Taylor, I've been looking into the bullying case at school. I've hired a lawyer, and we're going to take legal action to ensure the school takes the issue seriously."

He paused for a minute before continuing, "I know it's a lot to handle, and I wish it didn't have to come to this. But I want you to know that I'm doing everything in my power to make sure you have a safe and supportive environment at school."

Taylor, surprised by the revelation, listened intently. The weight of the situation hung in the air, but a sense of resolve replaced some of the frustration. "Legal action? Dad, I... I didn't think it would go that far. But thank you. Thank you for standing up for me."

Danny nodded, "Taylor, you deserve to feel safe and supported. We're taking the necessary steps to make sure that happens. You're not going back there, this I promise you."

As the weight of their conversation lingered, Danny felt it was time to address a more personal and potentially difficult topic. Taking a deep breath, he broached the subject,

"Taylor, there's something else I need to talk to you about. I know about Emma. I know about her involvement in the bullying and the pain she's caused you." Danny said.

"Dad! How could you? You went through my diary? I can't believe you would do that!" Taylor erupted.

In response to Taylor's intense emotions, a cloud of insects swarmed around them, a manifestation of her Parahuman abilities. The insects, a reflection of her power over bugs, filled the air, creating a moment of heightened tension in the room.

Danny, surprised but understanding the connection between Taylor's emotions and her powers, remained calm. "Taylor, it's okay. Take a few breaths and calm down."

The cloud of insects, swirling in response to the charged atmosphere, gradually subsided as Taylor took a deep breath.

Danny then spoke with a calm tone. "Taylor, I didn't go through your things. When I saw what had happened to you, I used my power to find out who did this to you. I was worried, and I wanted to make whoever did that to you would never be able to do that to you or anyone else ever again. I never intended to invade your privacy, and for that, I'm truly sorry."

He continued, his voice carrying a weight of shame, "When I found out what happened, I... I was angry. I was prepared to do whatever it took to protect you, even if it meant going to extremes. It wasn't until later that I realized it was Emma. It shocked me and I regret jumping to conclusions."

Feeling the weight of the moment and recognizing the sincerity in Danny's admission, Taylor's anger began to give way to a mix of emotions. She approached her father and, in a vulnerable moment, hugged him tightly. "Dad, I'm sorry for screaming at you. I didn't understand, and I didn't know..."

Danny, returning the embrace, gently interrupted, "Taylor, you have nothing to be sorry about. You've been going through a lot in a short time and I want us to face it together. You're not alone in this, and I'm here for you."

In the aftermath of the emotional exchange, Taylor, still processing the revelations, turned to her father with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Dad, how am I doing so well, both mentally and physically, despite….everything that's happened?"

"Taylor, our connection goes beyond the ordinary. As long as you think of me as your father, there's a special bond that ensures you'll always recover, both mentally and physically. It's a part of the power we share, and it's here to protect you." Danny said with a reassuring smile.

"No matter what challenges you face, as long as we are family, that connection will always be a source of strength for you. You're resilient, Taylor and like your mother, I believe in your ability to overcome whatever comes your way." He said.

There was a pause as Father and Daughter did not know what to say to the other and Danny idly noted that the swarm had completely vanished.

"Dad….would my diary and all the emails from Emma help the case? I've documented everything that happened." She asked in a low voice.

Danny was surprised by the question and nodded without thinking. "Yes, Taylor, they could be crucial evidence. It will strengthen our case and provide a clearer picture of what you've been going through. Do you know where the diary and the emails are?"

Taylor took a breath and with a determined expression, mentioned a specific location in her room. "Yeah, they're in my desk drawer. I've kept everything there."

Feeling a sense of urgency and a desire to not think about what happened to her, Taylor looked at Danny and took a deep breath.

"Dad, can I speak with the lawyer right now? I want to make sure we're taking every step to address this as soon as possible." She asked, her voice wavering.

Danny, considering Taylor's request to speak with the lawyer, responded with a gentle but firm tone, "Taylor, I understand you want to be involved, and we'll make sure you have a chance to talk to the lawyer. However, right now, your recovery is the top priority. We'll collect the evidence, including your diary and the emails, later when you're feeling better."

He continued, "Let's focus on getting you back to full strength first. Once you've recovered, we'll involve you in the legal discussions and ensure your voice is heard. It's important that you're in the best condition both physically and emotionally."

OBTAINED
Taylor's Diary and other proofs.

AN: Taylor Botched being angry. So you actually helped her with her mental state. Keep in mind that Mercy in Servitude deals with Torments of the mind like addictions, multiple personality disorders and so on and stuff that shows up in the character sheet. What it does not help with is things like being paranoid after being subjected to an extensive bullying campaign. Does it help? Absolutely, Taylor is arguably in a MUCH better spot that in canon. But it will not do your work for you.

CHOICE TIME: What are you going to do with Taylor?

[] Spend some father daughter time with her. (Choose 1)
-[] The Boat Graveyard
-[] The Boardwalk
-[] Where?