Infernal Resurgence (Worm/Exalted)

09th January 2011

Under the gentle afternoon sun, Danny and the nurse, Mrs. Higgs, both dedicated caregivers with caring demeanors, skillfully wheeled Taylor along the vibrant Boardwalk. The rhythmic sounds of the rolling wheels harmonized with the lively atmosphere around them, creating a soothing melody as they meandered through the crowd.

Mrs. Higgs' reassuring presence complemented Danny's attentive gaze, ensuring a smooth journey for Taylor. Together, they embraced the freedom of the open space, the salty breeze brushing against their faces like a gentle caress. The Boardwalk, adorned with colorful stalls and enlivened by the distant melody of street musicians, became a haven of shared moments and newfound camaraderie, offering a brief but uplifting escape from the confines of hospital walls.

As they continued their leisurely stroll along the Boardwalk, Danny, Mrs. Higgs, and Taylor immersed themselves in the vibrant scene. They meandered past a myriad of shops, each displaying its unique array of goods, from beach trinkets to homemade ice cream.

Mrs. Higgs pointed out interesting items in storefronts, adding a touch of commentary that sparked smiles. Taylor, with a curious gleam in their eyes, observed the lively interactions of people around them. Laughter echoed from a nearby café, where patrons savored coffee and exchanged stories.

As they continued to explore the Boardwalk, the vibrant colors and eclectic shops led her to a quaint little store selling lotus flowers. The delicate fragrance wafted through the air, instantly capturing her attention.

"Dad, look at this! A shop selling lotus flowers," Taylor exclaimed, the curiosity evident in her eyes.

Danny approached, intrigued by the find. "Lotus flowers? That's unique. Let's take a look."

Entering the store, they were greeted by a calming atmosphere. The shop was adorned with various arrangements of lotus flowers, their petals gracefully unfolding in a spectrum of hues.

"Good day! Are you interested in the symbolic beauty of lotus flowers?" the shopkeeper asked with a warm smile.

Taylor nodded, captivated by the serene ambiance. "Absolutely! What makes lotus flowers special?"

The shopkeeper shared the significance of lotus flowers, symbols of purity, enlightenment, and new beginnings. As Taylor and Mrs. Higgs were looking through the flowers, the voice suddenly chimed in.

"Sorcerous Workings, Daniel, are bound by the mystical dance of resonant reagents. For instance, if one aspires to grasp a limited form of immortality, the very essence of the reagents must harmonize with the concept itself."

"Why are you telling me this?" Danny inquired, a curious glint in his eyes as he absorbed the mystical teachings.

The voice responded "Daniel, the essence of magic often lies in the ordinary, in the subtle threads that weave through the fabric of existence. Consider the lotus, seemingly mundane yet profoundly potent. In its petals lies the resonance of Enlightenment, Purity, and Rebirth. Just as the Peaches of Immortality and Golden Apples bear the imprint of their symbolism, the lotus, too, carries the weight of its profound meaning." and pauses before continuing.

"The lotus," the voice resonates with a gentle wisdom. "A flower that transcends the realms of the mundane, bearing virtues that echo through the ages. Contemplate, dear Daniel, the profound lessons carried within the petals of the lotus."

"The lotus, despite emerging from murky waters, remains untainted—a symbol of purity in the face of adversity. Its pristine bloom atop the muddied pond teaches the invaluable virtue of rising above challenges with grace and elegance. Just as the lotus remains unblemished, so too can one navigate the complexities of life with unwavering purity."

"Furthermore, the lotus undergoes a cycle of rebirth each day, closing its petals at night and unfurling them with the dawn—a ritualistic dance symbolizing renewal and the endless cycle of life. It imparts the lesson of embracing change, of allowing oneself to undergo metamorphosis, emerging stronger with every cycle."

"As a beacon of Enlightenment, the lotus opens its petals to the sun, seeking the light amidst the darkness. It symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and the continuous journey towards understanding. In its essence, the lotus encourages seekers to strive for higher consciousness, to illuminate the path to wisdom."

"So, Danny, as you tread the mystical paths, remember the virtues of the lotus—purity, rebirth, and enlightenment. For in its humble bloom lies the profound wisdom of the ages," the voice concludes, leaving Danny.

"Sounds like they make for powerful reagents. Can I grow other reagents?" Danny asked, his curiosity piqued.

The voice responded with nostalgia, "Ah, the art of cultivation, a path within the realms of sorcery. The short answer, Daniel, is yes. The long answer, however, takes the lotus as an example for the intricate dance between intention and action needed."

"Imagine growing a number of lotus flowers. You can certainly cultivate them, but for these blooms to truly count as resonant reagents, you must take tangible actions to forge a connection with the ingredient. Consider this, to harness the true potential of the lotus flowers, you might embark on the journey of building a pond or take effort ordering and overseeing the construction. Then, there's the act of harvesting lotus seeds, perhaps involving others in this endeavor, and finally, ensuring they are planted with care."

The voice emphasized, "The essence lies not just in the growth of the lotus but in the stories woven around it. You can also employ sorcerous workings to expedite the growth of the lotus, turning it into a perfectly valid and magical source of reagents. Remember, Danny, in the world of sorcery, every action is a part of the grand tapestry, and every ingredient, a chapter waiting to be written."

"Daniel," the voice intones, "I state this again. The essence of magic lies not just in the reagents themselves, but in the profound thematic resonance they carry. When placed one after the other, they must tell a story, a narrative that aligns with the very essence of the Working."

"These reagents must be more than mere ingredients; they are the chapters of a story, the verses of an enchanting ballad. Choose them with intention, for their thematic resonance is the magical ink that inscribes your Working upon the tapestry of reality. In the alchemy of sorcery, meaning and intent are as essential as the mystical properties of the chosen reagents." The voice said as it imparts the crucial understanding that the selection of reagents is a sacred art woven into the fabric of sorcery.

As Danny contemplated creating a pond in his inner world for the cultivation of lotus flowers, the voice, ever attuned to the nuances of magical workings, offered a word of caution.

"The creation of a lotus pond in your inner world is a noble endeavor, Daniel," the voice warned. "However, you must tread carefully, for the lotus, being a creature of magical resonance, will absorb the very essence of the Primordials dwelling within your inner sanctum. This absorption is not without consequence; it will instigate a transformative metamorphosis in the lotus."

The voice continued, "The lotus, once infused with the Essence of the Primordials, will undergo a profound change. Its petals may take on hues unseen in the mortal realm, and its fragrance may carry whispers from realms beyond. This transformation may grant the lotus a potency beyond that of its mundane counterparts, becoming a reagent infused with the very essence of your inner world."

"Consider this carefully, as the consequences of the lotus absorbing the Essence of the Primordials could be both wondrous and unpredictable. But it would be essential to unlocking the root of the brass lotus," the voice finished, leaving Danny with a cryptic notion.

Perplexed, Danny sought clarification. "What do you mean by the root of the brass lotus?"

The voice responded, "The brass lotus carries meaning deeply entwined with martial arts for a Prince of the Green Sun. It symbolizes not only physical strength and resilience but also the mastery of the self. To unlock its root implies delving into the profound depths of martial arts philosophy and discipline. It signifies a journey toward inner balance, enlightenment, and the realization of one's true potential, both Primordial and otherwise."

Danny, eager to understand, asked, "How do I unlock the root of the brass lotus?"

The voice gently replied, "Such a journey requires more than the cultivation of physical prowess. It demands an alignment of mind, body, and spirit, a harmony that transcends the physical form. You, Daniel, are not yet ready for this profound exploration. Focus on the cultivation of the lotus and the essence it absorbs for now. When the time is right, the path to the root of the brass lotus may reveal itself to you."

Lost in contemplation, Danny was gently pulled from his thoughts by Taylor's voice. She called out, "Dad, these flowers are amazing! Can we buy a few?"

The enchanting spell of magical considerations lifted as he refocused on the present moment. Danny smiled at Taylor's enthusiasm. "Of course, sweetheart. Let's pick out a bunch. Maybe we can add a touch of this magic to our home."

Taylor's eyes lit up with joy, and together, they approached the shopkeeper to select a handful of the lotus flowers. The shopkeeper prepared the flowers with care.

Mrs. Higgs, with a warm smile, suggested, "How about we find a charming place to sit down and enjoy a meal? There's a lovely little café not far from here."

Taylor and Danny, in agreement, decided to follow Mrs. Higgs to the inviting café. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of delectable treats wafted through the air as they strolled along the Boardwalk. The sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the scene.

As they savored their meal in the cozy café, the atmosphere took an unexpected turn. In the corner of the room, Danny, Taylor, and Mrs. Higgs noticed two familiar figures enjoying their own quiet moment – Glory Girl and Panacea. The capes from the city's renowned Protectorate sat at a nearby table, engaged in conversation.


Taylor's eyes widened with excitement as she recognized the heroes. "Dad, look! It's Glory Girl and Panacea!"

Danny exchanged a glance with Mrs. Higgs, both acknowledging the presence of these iconic figures. The heroes, too, noticed the group and offered friendly nods. Glory Girl, with her iconic golden costume and a cape billowing behind her, decided to approach Taylor, followed closely by Panacea.

"Hey there! I couldn't help but notice your enthusiasm," Glory Girl greeted with a warm smile. "What's your name?"

"I'm Taylor, and this is my dad, Danny, and our friend, Mrs. Higgs," Taylor replied, her excitement palpable. "I am a big fan. Can we, like, get a picture?"

Glory Girl, with a radiant smile, responded, "Absolutely! We're always happy to meet fans." The heroes graciously posed for a photo, creating a memorable moment for Taylor and her companions in the heart of the bustling café.

Glory Girl and Panacea warmly shook Taylor's hand, their powerful yet friendly presence evident. As the introductions unfolded, Panacea, with her power, sensed something different about Taylor.

"Mind I heal you? We can do this privately." Panacea asked.

CHOICE:
Panacea has noticed something. You have two options.

[] Yes
-Taylor has an excuse for being better. You can also talk to GG and Panacea.
- You will have to explain some stuff to them. Like the bullying. This can lead to consequences, both good and possibly bad as Brandish does work in the same law firm as Alan and is VERY high on Parahuman accountability.

[] No
-Taylor has to pretend to be wheelchair bound for a few more days.
- Avoid awkward conversations

09th January 2011
In the secluded confines of the private booth, Panacea, with a mix of curiosity and concern, confronted Taylor. The ambient hum of the café faded as they settled into a more private dialogue.

"Taylor, there's something I'd like to discuss with you privately. Are you comfortable if Danny and Mrs. Higgs are present, or would you prefer just the two of us?" Panacea asks, sensing the need for a private conversation.

Taylor and Danny exchanged glances, a moment of shared understanding passing between them. Taylor took a deep breath before nodding.

"Taylor," Panacea began after glancing at Danny and Mrs. Higgs, "Are you a parahuman?"

"Yes, I am. I have abilities, and it's been kind of a secret until now." Taylor breaths out.

Panacea nodded understandingly, her demeanor still supportive. "I appreciate your honesty."

Glory Girl, who had been patiently waiting in the background, couldn't help but interject as the revelation unfolded. "Wait, what?" she managed to say, her surprise evident in the furrow of her brow.

Panacea, with a reassuring smile, explained, "Taylor here is a Parahuman."

Glory Girl, still processing the unexpected turn of events, nodded and directed her attention to Taylor. "That's... pretty incredible. What kind of abilities are we talking about?"

"Bug control," Taylor blurted out, a mix of nerves and shame coloring her words. The revelation hung in the air for a moment. Glory Girl and Panacea exchanged glances, their surprise now intertwined with genuine intrigue.

Glory Girl, breaking the silence with a warm smile, said, "That's fascinating! Controlling bugs is a unique and powerful ability. As you may know, I am an Alexandria package, and Amy is a healer. There is no injury that she can't cure, right, Amy?"

Panacea, also known as Amy, nodded with a modest grin. "That's right. I can handle injuries and ailments. It's always interesting to meet someone with a different set of abilities. Bug control can be quite versatile, I imagine."

Glory Girl then turned to her sister and suggested, "Amy, why don't you use your healing abilities on Taylor? Just to make sure she's in top shape."

"Actually, Taylor is in peak health. It's quite fascinating, really. Her body constantly……restores itself." Panacea responded.

Glory Girl raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Restore? Like, enhanced healing or regeneration?"

Panacea nodded, "Exactly. It seems her parahuman abilities extend beyond just controlling bugs. There's an intriguing interplay between her powers and her body."

Glory Girl, her eyes filled with genuine concern, asked, "So why the wheelchair? If you have these powers, why use a wheelchair?"

Taylor took a deep breath. "It's a bit complicated. I triggered due to intense bullying, and I've been keeping my powers a secret. The wheelchair is a way for me to hide the fact that I triggered. I wanted to avoid drawing attention to myself, especially after everything that happened."

Glory Girl, after a moment of contemplation, offered a supportive smile. "I get it. Sometimes, keeping a low profile is the best strategy. You're not alone in this, Taylor. We're here to support you in any way we can."

Then Glory Girl's expression shifted to one of realization.

She paused for a moment as she absorbed the information. "Wait, you recently triggered? As in, your powers are still new to you?"

Taylor nodded, feeling a mix of vulnerability and relief in sharing this revelation. "Yeah, it happened fairly recently."

Danny placed his hand on Taylor's shoulder, giving a gentle squeeze, a silent reassurance that echoed louder than words. Feeling the weight of the conversation and the support of those around her, Taylor welcomed the comforting gesture from her father.

But it did not last long as the atmosphere in the café suddenly shifted, Glory Girl, unintentionally losing control of her aura, emitted an overwhelming sense of fear that permeated the space.

Those around her, including Taylor, Mrs. Higgs, and the other patrons, felt an unexplained sense of unease and trepidation.

However Danny seemed unaffected by the fear-inducing aura. He maintained his composure, providing a stabilizing presence amidst the unease.

Panacea, quick to identify the source of the disturbance, calmly rebuked, "Vicky's aura."

Glory Girl, realizing the unintended impact of her powers, winced and apologized, "Sorry, everyone. Sometimes, I lose control of it. I didn't mean to make anyone uncomfortable."

Glory Girl, with an apologetic smile turned to Taylor. "That changes things. Triggering can be overwhelming. If you ever need guidance or someone to talk to about your powers, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here for you."

In the midst of the unfolding dynamics, Danny remained silent, understanding that this was a moment for Taylor and the capes to workout together. His presence, a steady source of support, spoke volumes without the need for words.

As the conversation continued to unfold, Taylor, with a guarded expression, couldn't help but voice a question that lingered in her mind. "Thank you, Glory Girl, but with everything you and Panacea deal with, why take the time to help me? There are probably more important things you could be dealing with."

"Taylor, every person's struggles and journey matter. It's not about more or less important; it's about being there for each other. If you need help, guidance, or someone to talk to, that's important. I am a hero. That's what we do." Glory Girl said as she struck a pose.

Glory Girl, despite her trademark cheesy smile and pose, conveyed an underlying sincerity that reached Taylor on a deeper level. As she struck a heroic pose, there was a genuine warmth in her eyes that spoke volumes. Taylor, though tears welled up in her own eyes, couldn't help but see the authenticity behind Glory Girl's words and smile.

Through her sobs and tears, Taylor found the courage to open up about the painful chapters of her life.

"My best friend, Emma," Taylor began, her voice quivering with emotion, "she turned my life into hell. Alongside her new friends, Sophia and Madison, they made everything unbearable. I didn't understand why they did it, why my closest friend betrayed me like that."

As she spoke, the weight of the past spilled out, each word carrying the burden of the betrayal and the emotional turmoil she had endured. As Glory Girl and Panacea listened attentively, their expressions reflected a mix of compassion and sympathetic rage as they bore witness to Taylor's painful story culminating in the locker incident.

Feeling the weight of Taylor's pain, Mrs. Higgs instinctively reached out and enveloped Taylor in a comforting hug. Mrs. Higgs provided a steady presence for Taylor, offering solace through the simple yet comforting hug. In that embrace Taylor released the emotions that had long been held captive.

Glory Girl, concerned by Taylor's story, leaned forward and asked, "What's the status of the police investigation into what happened to you? I could ask my mother to look into this."

Danny, somewhat confused, responded, "Police investigation? No officer has reached out to us about what Taylor has been going through."

Glory Girl's expression shifted, a mix of surprise and concern. "That's not right. If she…..had that happen to her, the authorities should be involved."

Danny, realizing the gaps in official intervention, explained, "No police officer has come to us, and I've only started filing a civil suit. But here's the thing, Alan, Emma's father, is part of your mother's work friend. It's a delicate situation and might be a conflict of interest if she gets involved."

Glory Girl's expression shifted from concern to horror as the realization hit her. "What? Is that Emma girl Emma Barnes?" she asked, her face contorting with a mix of shock and anger. The mention of a familiar name stirred a wrathful expression on her face.

"Is the other girl called Sophia Hess?" she asked, her voice carrying a tone that hinted at an impending storm.

Panacea, too, mirrored the sudden change in expression, her features reflecting a shared sense of disbelief and indignation.

Danny, taken aback by the sudden outburst, observed the reactions of Glory Girl and Panacea, trying to discern the underlying currents in their expressions. While Panacea remained inscrutable, Glory Girl's intense reaction hinted at a deeper knowledge, particularly about the girl named Sophia Hess.

Sensing the gravity of the situation, Danny took a deep breath and cautiously asked, "Do you know something about Sophia Hess? Is there more to this story that we should be aware of?"

Glory Girl, still seething with a mix of anger and determination, exchanged a glance with Panacea. In that silent exchange, Danny could sense an unspoken understanding between the heroes, a shared knowledge that held the key to unraveling the complexities of Taylor's ordeal.

Glory Girl and Panacea shared a significant look, a silent exchange laden with unspoken truths. In response to Danny's inquiries, Glory Girl took a breath and spoke with a mix of determination and reassurance.

"Sophia Hess is much more dangerous than she seems," she admitted, her voice carrying a weight of concern. "But don't worry, Mr. Hebert. We'll take care of it. We can't let her actions go unchecked."

Panacea, observing the concern etched on Danny and Taylor's faces, sought to provide reassurance. With a calm and comforting demeanor, she spoke, "Mr. Hebert, Taylor, you're not alone in this. New Wave, as a team, won't let anything happen to you. We're here to support and protect. Sometimes situations seem more serious than they are, so don't worry, nothing bad will happen, I promise."

There was a pause and Mrs. Higgs chimed in with a determination of her own. "I'll be there as well," she asserted, her commitment evident in her words. However, when Danny expressed concern about the potential danger, Mrs. Higgs didn't mince her words.

"You've already paid me for this week, and I'll be there, danger or no danger," she declared with a firm resolve.

Danny, touched by Mrs. Higgs's unwavering dedication, and Taylor, feeling the weight of the support surrounding her, exchanged glances.

Sensing the need to shift the mood and provide a moment of respite, Glory Girl, with a warm smile, turned to Taylor and asked, "Hey Taylor, how about we hang out later? Maybe take a break from all this and just enjoy some time together?"

The invitation carried a genuine offer of camaraderie, a chance to create positive memories amid the challenges they were facing. Taylor, appreciating the gesture, felt a glimmer of hope.

Danny, seeing the opportunity for Taylor to embrace a positive moment, gently encouraged her. "Taylor, why don't you go meet up with Glory Girl and Panacea? It might be good for you to take a break and enjoy some time with friends. You don't have to go now but later."

As Taylor contemplates the invitation to hang out with Glory Girl, Danny, perceptive as always, observes Panacea's demeanor. He notices a subtle conflict within her, a mix of conflicting emotions. While there's a desire to be alone, there's also an unmistakable yearning for connection and companionship, especially with Taylor.

Panacea's conflicted state is evident in the way she carries herself – a subtle tug-of-war between the solitude she may crave and the companionship she genuinely seems to want.

As he observed Panacea's inner conflict, Glory Girl spoke up. "Taylor, we're heroes, and heroes help each other. I want to help you be the best hero you can be. You don't have to face everything alone. We're here for you, every step of the way."

Feeling a mixture of concern and discomfort at the thought of Taylor being involved in crime-fighting, Danny tries to redirect the focus. "Can't you just be teenagers? Hang out, have fun? You don't have to rush into all this hero stuff."

However, both Glory Girl and Panacea, driven by their sense of duty and commitment, push back. "Mr. Hebert, we're heroes, and Taylor is part of this now. We can't just ignore what's happening," Glory Girl asserts, her expression reflecting her unwavering determination.

Panacea, echoing the sentiment, adds, "We want to help, and being heroes is what we do. It's not just about us being teenagers; it's about making a difference."

Feeling the weight of the differing perspectives, Taylor nods and says, "They're right. I want to learn, and if this is part of being a hero, then I want to be a part of it too."

Feeling the need to clarify his perspective, Danny adds to the discussion. "I didn't say not to be heroes. I just think you shouldn't make everything about being a hero. You're only young once, and you should enjoy it while you can. There's more to life than just fighting crime."

"Every moment I spend not healing someone, there's a chance that someone could suffer or even die. I do not want that on my mind. I don't want to be responsible for someone's death if I could have prevented it." Panacea said in disagreement, driven by the weight of her unique abilities.

Mrs. Higgs, ever perceptive to the emotional and practical needs of those around her, steps in with a compassionate gesture. She hugs Panacea, startling her momentarily, and begins to share her wisdom. "Dear, I've seen heroes come and go. Burnout is a real threat. You need to pace yourself. Taking care of yourself means you can save more people in the long run. It's a marathon, not a sprint."

Danny, echoing the sentiment of finding balance and joy amidst the challenges, adds his perspective to the conversation. "Life can't be all work and no play. Sometimes, you have to accept a foul ball. Panacea, you don't need to stop or even slow down, but you have to make sure you have fun or doing something to unwind, like a hobby, something you enjoy. It's not just about the responsibilities; it's about living a life worth remembering."

Feeling the weight of the collective wisdom and encouragement, Glory Girl playfully slaps Panacea on the back and chimes in, "They're right, Amy. We've got to find that balance. We're not just heroes; we're people too. Let's make sure we're living our lives while we're at it."

Panacea, after a moment of contemplation and the support from those around her, reluctantly agrees. She acknowledges the wisdom in finding a balance between her responsibilities as a hero and the need for personal fulfillment. The weight of the decision, while not fully shed, is lightened by the understanding that she doesn't have to bear the burden alone.

With a newfound understanding and a sense of camaraderie, Glory Girl and Panacea share their contact information with Taylor and Danny. "Here's our numbers. Feel free to call anytime," Glory Girl says with a warm smile.

Taylor, appreciating the offer, nods in gratitude. "Thank you. I'll be sure to call."

This Update had a lot of rolls and Danny nearly lost the Social Fu at one point to convince them to be teens, but thankfully Mrs. Higgs stepped in for the W, allowing Danny to close it up.

YOU GAINED:
-Contact with New Wave.
-Unknown Help from New Wave.
-Unknown Progress on getting Justice for Taylor
-Unknown Progress on the Civil case.
-Lotus Seeds and flowers. A non-magic but symbolically potent reagent.

Taylor's Mental health has improved:
-She has learned to tentatively trust again.
-She is no longer completely suicidal.
-She has friends again.
-She is comforted by Mrs. Higgs's presence.

Panacea's mental health improved.
-She will take breaks and pace herself, Glory Girl will ensure that she continues to do so.

Choice Time: (Choose 1)
[] Automated Money laundering services. Converts the WorldSoul Resource dots into real income.
[] Identify Local Issues, go see what non-cape problems people are actually facing.
[] Check out the Empire 88. See what is up with them.
[] Check out the ABB. See what is up with them.
[] Go out as Faust. See if there is some truth about improving the Bay by punching people.