Back to GatefoldIssue #2 by Dan Ingram
"The New Normal" March 2024 |
Project Earth Headquarters, Switzerland
Michael Shaunghann looked at his assistant and could tell from the expression on his face that the news was bad.
“No contact?” Michael said.
The young woman shook her head, “No sir. They haven’t responded to any of the messages we’ve sent. I took the liberty of hiring some locals to deliver a message for them to reach out.”
Shaunghann rubbed the bridge of his nose.
“They came back and confirmed that they delivered the message,” she said quickly, “but like I said before, no contact.”
“So it’s not that they haven’t heard us, it’s that The Force of Nature isn’t listening.”
“Correct, sir.”
“Damn it,” Shaunghann muttered, “this is Trans Sabal all over again. Well, ignoring this won’t solve the matter. Alright, reach out to our independent contractors or any specialist you can find. I need to get to Metro City, yesterday.”
oooOOoo
Metro City
Rahne Sinclair awoke to the smell of bacon and eggs, and smiled.
“I wanted ten more minutes,” Rahne whined, “how dare ye tempt me wit’ bacon?”
Her husband, Adam Sinclair, smiled as he placed a tray down on the bed.
“My studies of human culture tell me that this is expected of a new husband,” replied Adam.
“An’ which studies are that?” Rahne said.
“The ones that also tell me that husbands must have some secrets,” Adam smirked, “and I’m just making sure there are no hard feelings after what happened during our honeymoon.”
“Next vacation, we stay on earth,” Rahne said. She glanced at the clock, “I need ta meet wit’ Camilla and Taki in an aboot ninety minutes.”
“I’ve got to run Wyldflower through the paces,” Adam said, “he’s pretty good. I can see how he operated on his own, but his form needs a few tweaks.”
“Go easy on ‘em,” Rahne implored, “he’s got a good heart, but ye can see that he’s intimidated.”
“It’s my job to put him through the paces,” Adam replied, “if he doesn’t level up, he could be a liability in the field. It’s just tough love.”
The way Adam said those last words raised heckles on the back of her neck.
“I’ve had enough tough luck ta last a lifetime,” Rahne said, “it rarely produces the results ye want.”
oooOOoo
“You understand, if you so much as raise a scalpel in my direction, I will gut you.”
Technocrat rolled his eyes.
“I would never need so crude a tool,” he said, “I have sensors that can examine every inch of you without ever touching you.”
Camilla Black, Scorpion, scowled at all the debris that littered the lab. Half finished projects, wires scattered like spiderwebs and a corkboard with too many post-it notes and red ribbon.
“You want people to think you’re a genius, you might want to clean up,” Camilla observed.
“I don’t care much for the opinions of others,” Technocrat replied.
“An’ ye wonder why ye get on everyone’s nerves,” Rahne said as she entered, “Camilla, how are ye doing today?”
“Like I want to gut smug, self-professed geniuses,” Camilla said, as she clenched her fists.
“Well, please try to express some self-control,” Technocrat said, “I’m ready to run a diagnostic on your implants, when you’re ready to start.”
Rahne placed a gentle hand on Camilla’s shoulder.
“Whenever you’re ready.”
Camilla nodded. She bit her lip, and activated the dull trigger that was in the back of her mind. It felt like a small weight on her brain, and with a simple nudge she could feel her entire body change.
It felt as if ice water were pouring out of her ski for a moment, before the sensation ended as quickly as it began. Silver rose up from her arms before forming into silver, segmented plates. Camilla could feel the odd sensation of another limb growing out of her tailbone, before her brain was aware of a tail, as if it had always been there.
“Nanite count is about the same,” Technocrat said, “I tagged them with mild radioactive dye last exam, and most seem to remained in place.”
“And what does that mean?” said Camilla.
“According to Tony Stark and Hank McCoy, we agree that they’re static,” Technocrat replied, “I gave them your scans…”
“Thank you,” Rahne said quickly, “I appreciate ye asking for outside help.”
Technocrat paused, before continuing, “and they agree with my conclusions. Your nanite implants have a hardwired growth limit. Basically, what you see now is what you get.”
“And you haven’t decrypted anything at all from that lab you guys pulled me out of?” Camilla said.
“I’m afraid not,” Technocrat replied, “the tip we received was…ill-informed and didn’t allow us to prep properly for the mission.”
“Some big brain you are,” Camilla spat, “have you at least figured out why I keep having hot-flashes? I’m still going through my damn cycle, so I can’t be menopausing already.”
“That did stump me,” Technocrat replied, “but after consulting with Dr. McCoy, we believe that the nanites in your body are producing an allergic reaction. Your body is trying to reject the metal implants, and in turn, it’s fueling your original ability to metabolize toxins and transform them into raw energy.”
“And there’s no getting these damn things out of me?” Camilla tried to control her emotions.
“I don’t believe so,” Technocrat replied, “the nanites are hardwired into both your nerves and your brain. I imagine you’re as aware of that tail as you are of your hand in the dark.”
Camilla had never thought of that, but she realized instantly that Technocrat was correct.
“I’m sorry,” Technocrat said, “I know you wanted to remove these alterations, but everywhere they’re implanted is a biological third rail.”
Camilla sent another mental signal through her mind, and the nanites vanished into her body, as quickly as they left.
“Should have known it wouldn’t be that easy,” Camilla said, “we done here? I need a nap.”
“It’s barely past nine,” Technocrat observed.
“I’ll take that as a yes,” Camilla began to leave, but Rahne pulled on her shoulder slightly.
“Hey, some of muh best friends have tails, ye know,” said Rahne.
Camilla pretended not to chuckle.
“Rahne, do you have a moment?”
The Scots mutant turned towards Namorita Prentiss. She was wearing a black, three piece business suit, and had a digital pad in one hand.
“If it’s only a moment,” Rahne replied, reluctantly removing her hand from Camilla’s shoulder, “what do ye need?”
“We’re expecting an old frenemy from Project Earth in a few minutes,” Namorita said, “Nova wants you there to confirm he’s telling the truth.”
“Alright,” Rahne turned towards Camilla, “I’ll find ye later.”
Camilla nodded, and Rahne turned to follow Namorita.
The Atlantean princess waited until she was certain that they were out of earshot, before speaking.
“So how’s she holding up?” Namorita said.
“Are ye asking as a friend, or the head of our public relations?” Rahne replied.
“Why would you imply that there’s a conflict of interest?” Namorita said.
“It is with this team,” Rahne muttered, “Camilla is fine, fer now. I’ll be keeping an eye on her, but she seems to do better in the field than off it.”
“That’s something, at least,” Namorita said. They stopped at the door to Nova’s office (first belonging to Mirage, then Nova, then Mirage and then Nova once again), “wolf up. If this bastard is lying, we need to know.”
Wolfsbane nodded, and slightly activated her lupine abilities. Russel brown fur covered her skin, and she felt her senses grow sharper in an instant.
Wolfsbane blinked as the sensory information flooded her, and it took her mind a moment to catch up with the world.
“Hmm, dinnae expect to see her so soon,” Wolfsbane said, as Namorita opened the door.
Inside waiting for them were Nova, Michael Shaunghann and their long associate (or friend), Eddie Sawyer.
“Eddie!” Wolfsbane nearly tackled the mutant teleporter with a hug, “so good to see ye! We didn’t get a chance ta talk at the wedding!”
“Rahne, good to see you,” Eddie grunted out, “I’m sorry to cut this reunion short, but I need to be in Egypt in ten minutes. Mr. Shaunghann, I’ll let you know when I can pick you up again.”
“Thank you, lass,” Michael Shaunghann nodded.
Wolfsbane looked at the man, and crooked her head to the side, “Shaunghann, why do I remember that name?”
“He works for Project Earth,” Nova said. He was standing behind his desk, glaring daggers at the man, “you may recall him from when we clashed with The Undertow, and the Soldiers of Misfortune, when we were first starting out.”
“Yeah, you, me and Speedball were kidnapped,” Namorita said, with her own glare, “and Mikey here tried to blackmail the rest of the team with information needed to save us.”
“Blackmail isn’t the right word,” Michael said defensively.
“Close enough,” Namorita reported, “your information always comes at a price, willingly or not. Before that, you got us entangled in a civil war…”
“And tried to kill a soap opera star to bring attention to your cause,” said Nova, “that was when we first met.”
“And after that, I helped ya catch Sea Urchin,” Michael replied, “and regardless of how you lot came about it, my information helped ya friends save you and the lass here.”
“It’s clear we all have history wi’ each other that’s not the best. Can we jus’ get to what ye need from us?” Wolfsbane said.
Michael nodded, then took a breath, “It’s about the Force of Nature. They’ve gone dark.”
“What, your hired thugs?” Nova said, “you’ve lost their leash again? God damn it, this is Trans Sabal all over again!”
“We don’t know that!” Michael said quickly, “we have a compound in New Mexico. But we haven’t heard anything from them in a while, and they refuse to check in. Project Earth is making real inroads, and we might lose that if they go bloody rogue!”
Nova glanced towards Wolfsbane, and she nodded in the affirmative.
“And if they have to be taken out, you want us to do it since we hold press conferences that would let you disavow them,” Namorita said.
“That would help us mitigate the damage, aye,” Michael said, “please, I know our methods were sometimes extreme, but we all care about the planet.”
Michael produced a thumb-drive.
“This has all the information you need,” Michael said, “we recruited a few new members, before things went sideways.”
“Of course you did,” Nova muttered, “we’ll look into it as soon as possible.”
“As soon as possible?” Shaunghann said, incredulous, “this could be an emergency!”
“Could be,” Nova replied, “you’re not our only concern, buddy. It takes time for us to get fully operational. We’ll look into this today, but we don’t jump when you snap your fingers. Wolfsbane, could you please escort Mikey here to our waiting room?”
Namorita smirked, and waited until the door was closed before speaking.
“That was a good line of BS to cover up the fact that our heavy hitters are in school at the moment,” Namorita chuckled.
“Thanks,” Nova slumped back in his chair, “I bet that never happened to Captain America.”
oooOOoo
Charlie Burlingame winced as he and Tarene left their history class.
“Was it me, or did it seem like Mr. Biddle was walking on eggshells towards the end there?” Charlie said.
“I don’t imagine anyone feels well when discussing genocide,” Tarene replied, “especially when it was performed by their own country. But I imagine Dani will be pleased that her people’s history is being taught.”
“Charlie! Good to see you, handsome!”
Charlie nearly did a double take, as his good friend, Angelica Young, strode towards him with a pleading look in her yellow eyes.
Angelica hooked her arm with Charlie, and gave a nervous smile as Peter Miller, a freshman quarterback, approached.
“See?” Angelica said, “this is my boyfriend, Charlie.”
“Really? This beta punk?” Miller said, incredulous, “I’m an Alpha Max, baby. You’re a mutant. I can look past the green skin, girl. We belong together.”
Charlie could taste bile in his throat, but kept his temper in check. Mainly, because he was terrified of what might happen if Tarene were provoked into losing hers.
“Hey man, this is my girl,” Charlie said, “go find your own, eh?”
Peter paused for a second, then waved a dismissive hand.
“Whatever. You want a beta, that’s your mistake.”
“Jesus,” Charlie muttered, I feel like my IQ lowered just by being in that guy’s presence. What the hell is an Alpha Max?”
“Some new influencer idiots are listening to, by the name of Alpha Maximus,” Angelica replied, “about how to ‘be a man’, how ‘no means try harder’ and that crap. Jackass wouldn’t leave me alone unless he thought I was with someone.”
Charlie rolled his eyes, “Alpha Maximus? What, he couldn’t just call himself ‘Trying too hard’?”
“There is that guy on Force Works calling himself ‘X-Treme’,” Angelica chuckled.
“Yeah, but that was other people calling him that,” Charlie replied, “or so I heard.”
“I just pray this man’s stupidity isn’t too infectious,” Tarene muttered.
oooOOoo
Later
“As I’m recording this, Force Works is on their way to a New Mexico compound, hoping to see what’s the status of a new and improved Force of Nature, a superhuman organization founded by…”
“Sabre,” Nova said sharply, “could you not do that right before I give the tactical assessment?”
The speedster sighed, and deactivated the camera on her wrist.
“Thank you,” Nova said. The Human Rocket turned to his team, save X-Treme and Mirage, who were piloting the jet, “ideally, we’re here for what amounts to a wellness check.”
Nova waited for the nervous chuckles to pass.
“But if it comes to a fight, we’ll have to work smart. According to the files Project Earth gave me, these eco-jerks have recruited some new members. Quicksand, who’s gone a few rounds with Thor, same with Firebrand and Tempest, a female storm. That’s on top of Air-breaker, Aquaduct and Terraformer.”
“At least their names make it obvious what their powers are,” Charcoal said, “that’s polite.”
“Were these guys expecting to fight the whole world?” Tarene said.
“Sometimes, it feels like ya have to,” replied Wolfsbane.
“Is it normal to be this nervous before a fight?” Wyldflower whispered to Scorpion.
“Probably,” Scorpion whispered back, “I died in the last big one I was involved in, so its not like things could go worse.”
Wyldflower winced, and unable to think of anything to say, simply chose silence.
“We’re not looking to fight, but if it comes to that, I want the newlyweds to break off and find any civilians,” said Nova.
“You do know I can break the sound barrier, right?” Sabre said.
“You do know I’m the leader, right?” Nova replied, glaring at the speedster, “if the Force of Nature wants a fight, we’ll have our hands full and I’ll need you with us. They’re better suited for search and rescue.”
“We’re here,” X-Treme reported from the pilot’s seat..
Charcoal glanced out the window, at the farm below. It had barn, well, and entire field devoted to solar panels, along with animal pens.
“So why are these guys here, anyways?” said Charcoal.
“Project Earth is experimenting with sustainable farming,” Technocrat said, so suddenly that Charcoal nearly jumped out of his skin, “I imagine they were using their powers to speed up their experiments.”
“Bringing us around,” X-Treme said. There was a long, gravel road that led up to the barn that X-Treme jet the Stealth Wing down on. Nova said a silent prayer for luck, and then was the first one down the ramp.
Force Works stood nervously in the road, half awaiting an assault, half feeling foolish for standing around in their costumes for no reason.
“Incoming,” X-Treme muttered, and nodded at a few yards away.
The earth shifted, and the young heroes watched as if a sinkhole were happening in reverse, as the Force of Nature emerged from the earth.
Nova felt a tinge of anxiety as he regarded the eco-warriors. He had dealt with several of the members in the past. Air-Breaker, Aquaduct, Terraformer were known elements.
But the others…
Quicksand, a silica woman who’d traded blows with Thor. Firebrand, who looked like a star and furnace squeezed into human form, and Tempest, a woman of blue swirling mists rumored to have fought both Thor and Iron Man at once.
But Nova had been conquering his fears for a long time, now.
“Nice entrance,” Nova said, casually, “works for your theme.”
“What do you want, lapdog of the status qou?” Air-Breaker snarled.
“Your bosses are worried about you,” Nova replied, “seems like you haven’t been filling out your timesheets like you’re supposed to. They asked us, politely, to make sure everything is square.”
“We’re fine,” Aquaduct offered quickly, before Air-Breaker could reply, “just some miscommunication, is all.”
“So where is everybody?” Mirage demanded, “I know how busy a ranch is supposed to be. Why are you the only people we can see?”
“They are…getting supplies,” Terraformer offered, “it’s just a lull, I assure you.”
“We are fighting for the planet,” Tempest spat, the earth slightly rumbling with her words, “leave us, lest we feed the earth with your blood!”
“Hey now, we’re not looking for a fight,” Nova raised his hands, pleading, “think of this as a wellness check, and…”
“Infiltrators!” Firebrand snarled, shaking his burning fist, “you won’t fool…ugh!”
Eyes on both sides went wide, as a bolt of energy smashed into Firebrand, knocking the burning man backwards.
Nova snapped his head towards the culprit, “Technocrat, what the hell!”
“Firebrand is a murderous sociopath wanted in a dozen countries,” Technocrat replied, “and there are three dozen other people who should be working here, and my scans can’t find a single one. They’re covering something up.”
“I knew it!” Air-Breaker growled.
Nova tackled Air-Breaker, and then broke the sound barrier as they left the battlefield.
Tarene summoned lightning, and cast it towards Tempest. Quicksand formed two giant fists of sand, and tried to smash Mirage, who was plucked out of danger by Sabre.
Aquaduct drew water out of the ground, and sent a wave crashing towards Scorpion, while Charcoal and Technocrat raced towards Firebrand. Charcoal was met with a blast of superheated plasma that tested the strength of his altered form, knocking him back.
As that was happening, Terraformer and Wyldflower met, eye to eye like gun slingers of old. Each sensed the other’s connection to The Green.
“Hey,” Terraformer said.
“Hey,” replied Wyldflower.
“Care to talk?”
oooOOoo
“Hate, hate, bloody hate this!”
X-Treme and Wolfsbane raced towards the main house. As much as the lupine mutant hated leaving her friends to fend for themselves, she knew that saving lives came first. And as best her senses told her, the men and women who were manning this experimental farm.
“Mirage would have given us the same order,” X-Treme replied. He didn’t even break stride as they approached the main house. He slammed his shoulder into the door, turning it into so many splinters.
“…did ye even check to see if it was locked?” Wolfsbane chuckled.
“No time,” X-Treme said, “put that beautiful nose to work, love. Is there anyone here?”
Wolfsbane raised her nose, and inhaled deeply, “Smells like a bog in ‘ere. But I think they’re in the basement.”
The two mutants found the stairs quickly enough, and were stunned to find over two dozen people standing in the basement, their hands bound together with roots.
“Oh thank God,” muttered one woman.
“They’ve gone insane!” said one man, “you have to help us!”
X-Treme did a quick headcount, “You seem to be a little low on people.”
“That’s because some of our more extreme members were allowed to flee,” said one woman, “I’m Myra Hail, this was supposed to be my project. I requested Aquaduct and Terraformer join us, but they sent all of those powered thugs!”
“Ye say that Air-Breaker is the cause of all this?” Wolfsbane said.
“Unfortunately,” Myra scowled, “the man was too good to help around the farm, get his hands dirty. All he did all day was go online and lecture us about how we weren’t doing enough. Please, you can’t let them destroy this place!”
“Look, we’re going to get you all out of here,” X-Treme said, “and we’ll do what we can to preserve your work, I swear.”
oooOOoo
Metro City
Marcus Dixon drummed his fingers on the table, as he and two of his lieutenants of the 66 Bridges crew waited patiently.
“Ya know, my uncle told me, back in the day, there was a time when guys like us didn’t have to deal with super freaks to run a basic business.”
“Never knew those days,” replied Leon, his right-hand man, “but I sure as hell miss them all the same.”
“They come in here, and just take, take take,” Marcus sighed, “and this guy, can’t even be on time. Just like all the others.”
“Gentlemen, I have to apologize.”
A voice spoke that all three not only heard, but felt in their minds.
“Tardiness is not a great way to start a business, but diaper changes wait for no man.”
A red mist began to rise from the floor, and the smell of sulfur became overpowering.
“I understand your concerns about ‘super freaks’. Guys who get a big stick, and just start swinging it. I’m not like those guys. I started small, and when I saw my big break, I took it.”
Marcus and his men blinked as one, and saw a man standing before them as if he’d always been there. His appearance was rather unassuming, worn and torn jeans, a jean jacket that had seen some years.
And a red hood that seemed to move of its own accord.
“Now, lets talk business.”
oooOOoo
Nova released his grip on Air-Breaker some fifty miles away from the farm and twenty thousand feet in the air. The Inhuman flew backwards for only a moment, before arresting his flight.
If looks could kill, Nova knew that he’d be in serious trouble.
“Okay, look, we got off on the wrong foot,” Nova said, holding up his hands, “and yes, I know that’s a damn understatement. But we can still end this peacefully.”
“Your people are poisoning this planet every hour, of every day,” Air-Breaker snarled, “and fools like you and Project Earth think words will save it.”
Nova tried to answer, but his words were drowned out by three horizontal that shot towards him like a knife.
They struck the Human Rocket like a meteor, and sent him flying back towards the battle.
oooOOoo
Charcoal found himself flung backwards, smashing through the barn, and coming to a stop atop a new smashed tractor.
“Damn,” Charcoal rubbed his head, “I’ll give you this, Firebrand, you are hot stuff.”
“Levity will not spare you cleansing from my flame!”
Firebrand leveled both his wrists at Charcoal, and unleashed a torrent of flame that turned everything in the barn into slag.
And for the first time since he’d gained his powers, Charcoal felt pain from the heat.
Charcoal’s abilities allowed him to absorb heat, but there was too much, too fast and too hot. It was like trying to suck up an ocean with only a sponge. It didn’t help that Firebrand was more than willing to go all out.
“Yes, focus on the muscle-bound fool,” Technocrat muttered, as he maneuvered his drone closer to Firebrand.
Firebrand was a creature of amazing power, held in check by what Technocrat regarded as an overly simplistic set-up. He could think of a half dozen ways to hijack the system and turn the fool against the others.
“Firebrand, behind you!” Tempest shouted.
Over a hundred miles away, Technocrat unleashed an exhausted string of profanities as his drone was destroyed.
Removing himself from the tele-presence unit, he just sighed, “I’m never going to hear the end of this.”
oooOOoo
Scorpion leapt backwards, as a fist of water struck the ground only a few feet from where she was standing.
“So, Aquaduct, right?” Scorpion raised her fists, glowing with her toxic energy, “why do I get the feeling that you’re not taking this seriously?”
“Hey, I worked my ass off restoring the water table,” Aquaduct replied, “I don’t wanna destroy all that hard work just to take out some rookie.”
Scorpion stalked around Aquaduct, who kept his eyes trained on her.
“If you don’t want to fight, just say so,” Scorpion said, “I’ve had friends drag me into bad shit too.”
Aquaduct winced.
“Your blast, not lethal right?”
“Not unless I want it to be,” Scorpion replied.
“Well, try to…”
Aquaduct wasn’t able to finish his sentence before the bolt of energy struck him in the chest, and knocked the fight out of him.
“Thanks,” Scorpion muttered, “now how’s Wyldflower handling things…?”
Scorpion’s eyes swept the battlefield, until she saw Wyldflower and Terraformer squaring off. Or having a staring contest, as best she could determine.
“What the hell?”
oooOOoo
“Stupid idiot, stay still!”
Quicksand lashed out with a half dozen hands, each one futilely trying to smash Sabre as the mutant evaded her at mach-one.
“Why not just as me to stab myself?” Sabre ducked under a swing, “that’s just as likely to happen as me stopping, beach babe.”
Quicksand growled, and tried another tactic, hurling her entire form forward in the form of a silica avalanche, but could only watch as Sabre effortlessly kept ahead of her.
“Sabre, care to end this fight, or you just going to showboat?” Mirage said, over their radio.
Sabre ducked under a burst of sand that would have scored her to the bone.
“Your plan is, what?” replied Sabre.
“Pull north and get a few yards ahead,” Mirage said, “I’ll take it from there.”
“Stupid, idiot kids!” Quicksand snarled, as she tried to crush Sabre again and again. Her temper got the best of her when she saw Sabre skid to a stop. Forming her hands into a spiked mace, she swung her arms like a whip and came crashing down upon the mutant.
“Worthless, annoying gnat…!” Quicksand said. She took a moment to confirm her handiwork, and then realized that there was no body to be found.
“For what it’s worth…”
Mirage, standing behind Quicksand, let her arrow fly.
“I fully understand the desire.”
The psychic arrow struck Quicksand from behind. She screamed, as the energy lanced through her mind, and she struggled to hold her body together, a dozen different hands grabbing into the air for something that wasn’t there, before gradually falling into a pile of sand.
“That…looked terrible,” Sabre observed.
“I think my arrow screwed up how she holds her body together,” Mirage said, “not pretty, I’ll agree.”
There was a crackle of thunder, and Tarene struck the ground like a comet, digging a deep trench into the earth.
“Tempest is as strong as we were told,” Tarene said, as she stood up and brushed the earth and grass from her body.
“…thank you could pull that trick again?” Sabre asked, as Tempest levitated towards them.
“You are all fools,” Tempest shouted, her voice booming like thunder, “I don’t know how you might have discovered our plans, but you won’t stop us!”
Mirage generated another psychic arrow, ready to test her luck, but Tempest had already seen what happened to Quicksand. She lashed out with lighting from several directions, and Sabre had barely a split second to grab Mirage around the waist, and get her out of range.
“Hey!” Tarene snarled, “leave my friends alone! I’m not done with you yet!”
Tempest gave a bitter chuckle, “Little Godling, you may have influence over the storms, but I am them! And you’ll…argh!”
Tempest fell forward, and clutched her head. Agony had lanced through every cell in her body, in a way she never imagined possible.
“Hey, look at that,” Scorpion said, “looks like I’m the water to your fire, bitch.”
Tempest looked at Scorpion in fear and confusion, “You, are completely toxic!”
“Yeah, tell me something I don’t know,” Scorpion replied, “stay down, misty or I’ll give you enough to choke on!”
“This battle is pointless,” Tempest growled. Her form exploded in a cloud of blue mist, that began swirling faster and faster, “but I am gifted with more than just nature. My winds will carry us to victory!”
The mist grew larger and spun faster than anyone, even Sabre, could have anticipated, and then stopped just as suddenly.
When it was over, there wasn’t enough wind to lift a single blade of grass, and the Force of Nature was gone.
“God damn it, I hate magic,” Sabre threw her hands up in frustration.
Tarene cleared her throat.
“Not you,” Sabre said, “you’re one of the good ones.”
“Wow, there’s so much to unpack in that statement,” Mirage said.
“Gonna have to wait on that.”
Nova landed a few yards away with a heavy thud.
“I lost Air-Breaker. Our fight got a little too close to air traffic, so I had to let him get away,” said Nova, “gotta admit, I preferred delivering bad news when I wasn’t the leader.”
“Oh my God!”
Force Works turned, and saw X-Treme and Wolfsbane walking towards them, with a distraught Myra Hail in the forefront.
Her eyes swept over the ruined farm, her eyes wet and her heart broken.
“Years of work,” Myra said in disbelief, “our equipment, everything…!”
Nova cringed inwardly, as he approached Myra. One of the burdens of leadership sometimes, was being the whipping boy, the scapegoat. He suspected that Myra might have information they needed, but he knew it wouldn’t come at a free cost to his ego.
“Ma’am, I’m so sorry,” Nova said, “I wish we’d done a better job containing them, but we did the best we could, and…”
“Better job?” Myra shook her head, and squeezed her eyes shut, composing herself, “those maniacs might have killed us. I should have done something the second they brought in Quicksand, left alone that sociopath Firebrand.”
“Please, you have to stop them. Or this…”
Myra motioned towards the devastated farm.
“…this will be the least of the damage they do.”
Next issue: Force Works has to track down the Force of Nature, but what is their real endgame?
Michael Shaunghann looked at his assistant and could tell from the expression on his face that the news was bad.
“No contact?” Michael said.
The young woman shook her head, “No sir. They haven’t responded to any of the messages we’ve sent. I took the liberty of hiring some locals to deliver a message for them to reach out.”
Shaunghann rubbed the bridge of his nose.
“They came back and confirmed that they delivered the message,” she said quickly, “but like I said before, no contact.”
“So it’s not that they haven’t heard us, it’s that The Force of Nature isn’t listening.”
“Correct, sir.”
“Damn it,” Shaunghann muttered, “this is Trans Sabal all over again. Well, ignoring this won’t solve the matter. Alright, reach out to our independent contractors or any specialist you can find. I need to get to Metro City, yesterday.”
oooOOoo
Metro City
Rahne Sinclair awoke to the smell of bacon and eggs, and smiled.
“I wanted ten more minutes,” Rahne whined, “how dare ye tempt me wit’ bacon?”
Her husband, Adam Sinclair, smiled as he placed a tray down on the bed.
“My studies of human culture tell me that this is expected of a new husband,” replied Adam.
“An’ which studies are that?” Rahne said.
“The ones that also tell me that husbands must have some secrets,” Adam smirked, “and I’m just making sure there are no hard feelings after what happened during our honeymoon.”
“Next vacation, we stay on earth,” Rahne said. She glanced at the clock, “I need ta meet wit’ Camilla and Taki in an aboot ninety minutes.”
“I’ve got to run Wyldflower through the paces,” Adam said, “he’s pretty good. I can see how he operated on his own, but his form needs a few tweaks.”
“Go easy on ‘em,” Rahne implored, “he’s got a good heart, but ye can see that he’s intimidated.”
“It’s my job to put him through the paces,” Adam replied, “if he doesn’t level up, he could be a liability in the field. It’s just tough love.”
The way Adam said those last words raised heckles on the back of her neck.
“I’ve had enough tough luck ta last a lifetime,” Rahne said, “it rarely produces the results ye want.”
oooOOoo
“You understand, if you so much as raise a scalpel in my direction, I will gut you.”
Technocrat rolled his eyes.
“I would never need so crude a tool,” he said, “I have sensors that can examine every inch of you without ever touching you.”
Camilla Black, Scorpion, scowled at all the debris that littered the lab. Half finished projects, wires scattered like spiderwebs and a corkboard with too many post-it notes and red ribbon.
“You want people to think you’re a genius, you might want to clean up,” Camilla observed.
“I don’t care much for the opinions of others,” Technocrat replied.
“An’ ye wonder why ye get on everyone’s nerves,” Rahne said as she entered, “Camilla, how are ye doing today?”
“Like I want to gut smug, self-professed geniuses,” Camilla said, as she clenched her fists.
“Well, please try to express some self-control,” Technocrat said, “I’m ready to run a diagnostic on your implants, when you’re ready to start.”
Rahne placed a gentle hand on Camilla’s shoulder.
“Whenever you’re ready.”
Camilla nodded. She bit her lip, and activated the dull trigger that was in the back of her mind. It felt like a small weight on her brain, and with a simple nudge she could feel her entire body change.
It felt as if ice water were pouring out of her ski for a moment, before the sensation ended as quickly as it began. Silver rose up from her arms before forming into silver, segmented plates. Camilla could feel the odd sensation of another limb growing out of her tailbone, before her brain was aware of a tail, as if it had always been there.
“Nanite count is about the same,” Technocrat said, “I tagged them with mild radioactive dye last exam, and most seem to remained in place.”
“And what does that mean?” said Camilla.
“According to Tony Stark and Hank McCoy, we agree that they’re static,” Technocrat replied, “I gave them your scans…”
“Thank you,” Rahne said quickly, “I appreciate ye asking for outside help.”
Technocrat paused, before continuing, “and they agree with my conclusions. Your nanite implants have a hardwired growth limit. Basically, what you see now is what you get.”
“And you haven’t decrypted anything at all from that lab you guys pulled me out of?” Camilla said.
“I’m afraid not,” Technocrat replied, “the tip we received was…ill-informed and didn’t allow us to prep properly for the mission.”
“Some big brain you are,” Camilla spat, “have you at least figured out why I keep having hot-flashes? I’m still going through my damn cycle, so I can’t be menopausing already.”
“That did stump me,” Technocrat replied, “but after consulting with Dr. McCoy, we believe that the nanites in your body are producing an allergic reaction. Your body is trying to reject the metal implants, and in turn, it’s fueling your original ability to metabolize toxins and transform them into raw energy.”
“And there’s no getting these damn things out of me?” Camilla tried to control her emotions.
“I don’t believe so,” Technocrat replied, “the nanites are hardwired into both your nerves and your brain. I imagine you’re as aware of that tail as you are of your hand in the dark.”
Camilla had never thought of that, but she realized instantly that Technocrat was correct.
“I’m sorry,” Technocrat said, “I know you wanted to remove these alterations, but everywhere they’re implanted is a biological third rail.”
Camilla sent another mental signal through her mind, and the nanites vanished into her body, as quickly as they left.
“Should have known it wouldn’t be that easy,” Camilla said, “we done here? I need a nap.”
“It’s barely past nine,” Technocrat observed.
“I’ll take that as a yes,” Camilla began to leave, but Rahne pulled on her shoulder slightly.
“Hey, some of muh best friends have tails, ye know,” said Rahne.
Camilla pretended not to chuckle.
“Rahne, do you have a moment?”
The Scots mutant turned towards Namorita Prentiss. She was wearing a black, three piece business suit, and had a digital pad in one hand.
“If it’s only a moment,” Rahne replied, reluctantly removing her hand from Camilla’s shoulder, “what do ye need?”
“We’re expecting an old frenemy from Project Earth in a few minutes,” Namorita said, “Nova wants you there to confirm he’s telling the truth.”
“Alright,” Rahne turned towards Camilla, “I’ll find ye later.”
Camilla nodded, and Rahne turned to follow Namorita.
The Atlantean princess waited until she was certain that they were out of earshot, before speaking.
“So how’s she holding up?” Namorita said.
“Are ye asking as a friend, or the head of our public relations?” Rahne replied.
“Why would you imply that there’s a conflict of interest?” Namorita said.
“It is with this team,” Rahne muttered, “Camilla is fine, fer now. I’ll be keeping an eye on her, but she seems to do better in the field than off it.”
“That’s something, at least,” Namorita said. They stopped at the door to Nova’s office (first belonging to Mirage, then Nova, then Mirage and then Nova once again), “wolf up. If this bastard is lying, we need to know.”
Wolfsbane nodded, and slightly activated her lupine abilities. Russel brown fur covered her skin, and she felt her senses grow sharper in an instant.
Wolfsbane blinked as the sensory information flooded her, and it took her mind a moment to catch up with the world.
“Hmm, dinnae expect to see her so soon,” Wolfsbane said, as Namorita opened the door.
Inside waiting for them were Nova, Michael Shaunghann and their long associate (or friend), Eddie Sawyer.
“Eddie!” Wolfsbane nearly tackled the mutant teleporter with a hug, “so good to see ye! We didn’t get a chance ta talk at the wedding!”
“Rahne, good to see you,” Eddie grunted out, “I’m sorry to cut this reunion short, but I need to be in Egypt in ten minutes. Mr. Shaunghann, I’ll let you know when I can pick you up again.”
“Thank you, lass,” Michael Shaunghann nodded.
Wolfsbane looked at the man, and crooked her head to the side, “Shaunghann, why do I remember that name?”
“He works for Project Earth,” Nova said. He was standing behind his desk, glaring daggers at the man, “you may recall him from when we clashed with The Undertow, and the Soldiers of Misfortune, when we were first starting out.”
“Yeah, you, me and Speedball were kidnapped,” Namorita said, with her own glare, “and Mikey here tried to blackmail the rest of the team with information needed to save us.”
“Blackmail isn’t the right word,” Michael said defensively.
“Close enough,” Namorita reported, “your information always comes at a price, willingly or not. Before that, you got us entangled in a civil war…”
“And tried to kill a soap opera star to bring attention to your cause,” said Nova, “that was when we first met.”
“And after that, I helped ya catch Sea Urchin,” Michael replied, “and regardless of how you lot came about it, my information helped ya friends save you and the lass here.”
“It’s clear we all have history wi’ each other that’s not the best. Can we jus’ get to what ye need from us?” Wolfsbane said.
Michael nodded, then took a breath, “It’s about the Force of Nature. They’ve gone dark.”
“What, your hired thugs?” Nova said, “you’ve lost their leash again? God damn it, this is Trans Sabal all over again!”
“We don’t know that!” Michael said quickly, “we have a compound in New Mexico. But we haven’t heard anything from them in a while, and they refuse to check in. Project Earth is making real inroads, and we might lose that if they go bloody rogue!”
Nova glanced towards Wolfsbane, and she nodded in the affirmative.
“And if they have to be taken out, you want us to do it since we hold press conferences that would let you disavow them,” Namorita said.
“That would help us mitigate the damage, aye,” Michael said, “please, I know our methods were sometimes extreme, but we all care about the planet.”
Michael produced a thumb-drive.
“This has all the information you need,” Michael said, “we recruited a few new members, before things went sideways.”
“Of course you did,” Nova muttered, “we’ll look into it as soon as possible.”
“As soon as possible?” Shaunghann said, incredulous, “this could be an emergency!”
“Could be,” Nova replied, “you’re not our only concern, buddy. It takes time for us to get fully operational. We’ll look into this today, but we don’t jump when you snap your fingers. Wolfsbane, could you please escort Mikey here to our waiting room?”
Namorita smirked, and waited until the door was closed before speaking.
“That was a good line of BS to cover up the fact that our heavy hitters are in school at the moment,” Namorita chuckled.
“Thanks,” Nova slumped back in his chair, “I bet that never happened to Captain America.”
oooOOoo
Charlie Burlingame winced as he and Tarene left their history class.
“Was it me, or did it seem like Mr. Biddle was walking on eggshells towards the end there?” Charlie said.
“I don’t imagine anyone feels well when discussing genocide,” Tarene replied, “especially when it was performed by their own country. But I imagine Dani will be pleased that her people’s history is being taught.”
“Charlie! Good to see you, handsome!”
Charlie nearly did a double take, as his good friend, Angelica Young, strode towards him with a pleading look in her yellow eyes.
Angelica hooked her arm with Charlie, and gave a nervous smile as Peter Miller, a freshman quarterback, approached.
“See?” Angelica said, “this is my boyfriend, Charlie.”
“Really? This beta punk?” Miller said, incredulous, “I’m an Alpha Max, baby. You’re a mutant. I can look past the green skin, girl. We belong together.”
Charlie could taste bile in his throat, but kept his temper in check. Mainly, because he was terrified of what might happen if Tarene were provoked into losing hers.
“Hey man, this is my girl,” Charlie said, “go find your own, eh?”
Peter paused for a second, then waved a dismissive hand.
“Whatever. You want a beta, that’s your mistake.”
“Jesus,” Charlie muttered, I feel like my IQ lowered just by being in that guy’s presence. What the hell is an Alpha Max?”
“Some new influencer idiots are listening to, by the name of Alpha Maximus,” Angelica replied, “about how to ‘be a man’, how ‘no means try harder’ and that crap. Jackass wouldn’t leave me alone unless he thought I was with someone.”
Charlie rolled his eyes, “Alpha Maximus? What, he couldn’t just call himself ‘Trying too hard’?”
“There is that guy on Force Works calling himself ‘X-Treme’,” Angelica chuckled.
“Yeah, but that was other people calling him that,” Charlie replied, “or so I heard.”
“I just pray this man’s stupidity isn’t too infectious,” Tarene muttered.
oooOOoo
Later
“As I’m recording this, Force Works is on their way to a New Mexico compound, hoping to see what’s the status of a new and improved Force of Nature, a superhuman organization founded by…”
“Sabre,” Nova said sharply, “could you not do that right before I give the tactical assessment?”
The speedster sighed, and deactivated the camera on her wrist.
“Thank you,” Nova said. The Human Rocket turned to his team, save X-Treme and Mirage, who were piloting the jet, “ideally, we’re here for what amounts to a wellness check.”
Nova waited for the nervous chuckles to pass.
“But if it comes to a fight, we’ll have to work smart. According to the files Project Earth gave me, these eco-jerks have recruited some new members. Quicksand, who’s gone a few rounds with Thor, same with Firebrand and Tempest, a female storm. That’s on top of Air-breaker, Aquaduct and Terraformer.”
“At least their names make it obvious what their powers are,” Charcoal said, “that’s polite.”
“Were these guys expecting to fight the whole world?” Tarene said.
“Sometimes, it feels like ya have to,” replied Wolfsbane.
“Is it normal to be this nervous before a fight?” Wyldflower whispered to Scorpion.
“Probably,” Scorpion whispered back, “I died in the last big one I was involved in, so its not like things could go worse.”
Wyldflower winced, and unable to think of anything to say, simply chose silence.
“We’re not looking to fight, but if it comes to that, I want the newlyweds to break off and find any civilians,” said Nova.
“You do know I can break the sound barrier, right?” Sabre said.
“You do know I’m the leader, right?” Nova replied, glaring at the speedster, “if the Force of Nature wants a fight, we’ll have our hands full and I’ll need you with us. They’re better suited for search and rescue.”
“We’re here,” X-Treme reported from the pilot’s seat..
Charcoal glanced out the window, at the farm below. It had barn, well, and entire field devoted to solar panels, along with animal pens.
“So why are these guys here, anyways?” said Charcoal.
“Project Earth is experimenting with sustainable farming,” Technocrat said, so suddenly that Charcoal nearly jumped out of his skin, “I imagine they were using their powers to speed up their experiments.”
“Bringing us around,” X-Treme said. There was a long, gravel road that led up to the barn that X-Treme jet the Stealth Wing down on. Nova said a silent prayer for luck, and then was the first one down the ramp.
Force Works stood nervously in the road, half awaiting an assault, half feeling foolish for standing around in their costumes for no reason.
“Incoming,” X-Treme muttered, and nodded at a few yards away.
The earth shifted, and the young heroes watched as if a sinkhole were happening in reverse, as the Force of Nature emerged from the earth.
Nova felt a tinge of anxiety as he regarded the eco-warriors. He had dealt with several of the members in the past. Air-Breaker, Aquaduct, Terraformer were known elements.
But the others…
Quicksand, a silica woman who’d traded blows with Thor. Firebrand, who looked like a star and furnace squeezed into human form, and Tempest, a woman of blue swirling mists rumored to have fought both Thor and Iron Man at once.
But Nova had been conquering his fears for a long time, now.
“Nice entrance,” Nova said, casually, “works for your theme.”
“What do you want, lapdog of the status qou?” Air-Breaker snarled.
“Your bosses are worried about you,” Nova replied, “seems like you haven’t been filling out your timesheets like you’re supposed to. They asked us, politely, to make sure everything is square.”
“We’re fine,” Aquaduct offered quickly, before Air-Breaker could reply, “just some miscommunication, is all.”
“So where is everybody?” Mirage demanded, “I know how busy a ranch is supposed to be. Why are you the only people we can see?”
“They are…getting supplies,” Terraformer offered, “it’s just a lull, I assure you.”
“We are fighting for the planet,” Tempest spat, the earth slightly rumbling with her words, “leave us, lest we feed the earth with your blood!”
“Hey now, we’re not looking for a fight,” Nova raised his hands, pleading, “think of this as a wellness check, and…”
“Infiltrators!” Firebrand snarled, shaking his burning fist, “you won’t fool…ugh!”
Eyes on both sides went wide, as a bolt of energy smashed into Firebrand, knocking the burning man backwards.
Nova snapped his head towards the culprit, “Technocrat, what the hell!”
“Firebrand is a murderous sociopath wanted in a dozen countries,” Technocrat replied, “and there are three dozen other people who should be working here, and my scans can’t find a single one. They’re covering something up.”
“I knew it!” Air-Breaker growled.
Nova tackled Air-Breaker, and then broke the sound barrier as they left the battlefield.
Tarene summoned lightning, and cast it towards Tempest. Quicksand formed two giant fists of sand, and tried to smash Mirage, who was plucked out of danger by Sabre.
Aquaduct drew water out of the ground, and sent a wave crashing towards Scorpion, while Charcoal and Technocrat raced towards Firebrand. Charcoal was met with a blast of superheated plasma that tested the strength of his altered form, knocking him back.
As that was happening, Terraformer and Wyldflower met, eye to eye like gun slingers of old. Each sensed the other’s connection to The Green.
“Hey,” Terraformer said.
“Hey,” replied Wyldflower.
“Care to talk?”
oooOOoo
“Hate, hate, bloody hate this!”
X-Treme and Wolfsbane raced towards the main house. As much as the lupine mutant hated leaving her friends to fend for themselves, she knew that saving lives came first. And as best her senses told her, the men and women who were manning this experimental farm.
“Mirage would have given us the same order,” X-Treme replied. He didn’t even break stride as they approached the main house. He slammed his shoulder into the door, turning it into so many splinters.
“…did ye even check to see if it was locked?” Wolfsbane chuckled.
“No time,” X-Treme said, “put that beautiful nose to work, love. Is there anyone here?”
Wolfsbane raised her nose, and inhaled deeply, “Smells like a bog in ‘ere. But I think they’re in the basement.”
The two mutants found the stairs quickly enough, and were stunned to find over two dozen people standing in the basement, their hands bound together with roots.
“Oh thank God,” muttered one woman.
“They’ve gone insane!” said one man, “you have to help us!”
X-Treme did a quick headcount, “You seem to be a little low on people.”
“That’s because some of our more extreme members were allowed to flee,” said one woman, “I’m Myra Hail, this was supposed to be my project. I requested Aquaduct and Terraformer join us, but they sent all of those powered thugs!”
“Ye say that Air-Breaker is the cause of all this?” Wolfsbane said.
“Unfortunately,” Myra scowled, “the man was too good to help around the farm, get his hands dirty. All he did all day was go online and lecture us about how we weren’t doing enough. Please, you can’t let them destroy this place!”
“Look, we’re going to get you all out of here,” X-Treme said, “and we’ll do what we can to preserve your work, I swear.”
oooOOoo
Metro City
Marcus Dixon drummed his fingers on the table, as he and two of his lieutenants of the 66 Bridges crew waited patiently.
“Ya know, my uncle told me, back in the day, there was a time when guys like us didn’t have to deal with super freaks to run a basic business.”
“Never knew those days,” replied Leon, his right-hand man, “but I sure as hell miss them all the same.”
“They come in here, and just take, take take,” Marcus sighed, “and this guy, can’t even be on time. Just like all the others.”
“Gentlemen, I have to apologize.”
A voice spoke that all three not only heard, but felt in their minds.
“Tardiness is not a great way to start a business, but diaper changes wait for no man.”
A red mist began to rise from the floor, and the smell of sulfur became overpowering.
“I understand your concerns about ‘super freaks’. Guys who get a big stick, and just start swinging it. I’m not like those guys. I started small, and when I saw my big break, I took it.”
Marcus and his men blinked as one, and saw a man standing before them as if he’d always been there. His appearance was rather unassuming, worn and torn jeans, a jean jacket that had seen some years.
And a red hood that seemed to move of its own accord.
“Now, lets talk business.”
oooOOoo
Nova released his grip on Air-Breaker some fifty miles away from the farm and twenty thousand feet in the air. The Inhuman flew backwards for only a moment, before arresting his flight.
If looks could kill, Nova knew that he’d be in serious trouble.
“Okay, look, we got off on the wrong foot,” Nova said, holding up his hands, “and yes, I know that’s a damn understatement. But we can still end this peacefully.”
“Your people are poisoning this planet every hour, of every day,” Air-Breaker snarled, “and fools like you and Project Earth think words will save it.”
Nova tried to answer, but his words were drowned out by three horizontal that shot towards him like a knife.
They struck the Human Rocket like a meteor, and sent him flying back towards the battle.
oooOOoo
Charcoal found himself flung backwards, smashing through the barn, and coming to a stop atop a new smashed tractor.
“Damn,” Charcoal rubbed his head, “I’ll give you this, Firebrand, you are hot stuff.”
“Levity will not spare you cleansing from my flame!”
Firebrand leveled both his wrists at Charcoal, and unleashed a torrent of flame that turned everything in the barn into slag.
And for the first time since he’d gained his powers, Charcoal felt pain from the heat.
Charcoal’s abilities allowed him to absorb heat, but there was too much, too fast and too hot. It was like trying to suck up an ocean with only a sponge. It didn’t help that Firebrand was more than willing to go all out.
“Yes, focus on the muscle-bound fool,” Technocrat muttered, as he maneuvered his drone closer to Firebrand.
Firebrand was a creature of amazing power, held in check by what Technocrat regarded as an overly simplistic set-up. He could think of a half dozen ways to hijack the system and turn the fool against the others.
“Firebrand, behind you!” Tempest shouted.
Over a hundred miles away, Technocrat unleashed an exhausted string of profanities as his drone was destroyed.
Removing himself from the tele-presence unit, he just sighed, “I’m never going to hear the end of this.”
oooOOoo
Scorpion leapt backwards, as a fist of water struck the ground only a few feet from where she was standing.
“So, Aquaduct, right?” Scorpion raised her fists, glowing with her toxic energy, “why do I get the feeling that you’re not taking this seriously?”
“Hey, I worked my ass off restoring the water table,” Aquaduct replied, “I don’t wanna destroy all that hard work just to take out some rookie.”
Scorpion stalked around Aquaduct, who kept his eyes trained on her.
“If you don’t want to fight, just say so,” Scorpion said, “I’ve had friends drag me into bad shit too.”
Aquaduct winced.
“Your blast, not lethal right?”
“Not unless I want it to be,” Scorpion replied.
“Well, try to…”
Aquaduct wasn’t able to finish his sentence before the bolt of energy struck him in the chest, and knocked the fight out of him.
“Thanks,” Scorpion muttered, “now how’s Wyldflower handling things…?”
Scorpion’s eyes swept the battlefield, until she saw Wyldflower and Terraformer squaring off. Or having a staring contest, as best she could determine.
“What the hell?”
oooOOoo
“Stupid idiot, stay still!”
Quicksand lashed out with a half dozen hands, each one futilely trying to smash Sabre as the mutant evaded her at mach-one.
“Why not just as me to stab myself?” Sabre ducked under a swing, “that’s just as likely to happen as me stopping, beach babe.”
Quicksand growled, and tried another tactic, hurling her entire form forward in the form of a silica avalanche, but could only watch as Sabre effortlessly kept ahead of her.
“Sabre, care to end this fight, or you just going to showboat?” Mirage said, over their radio.
Sabre ducked under a burst of sand that would have scored her to the bone.
“Your plan is, what?” replied Sabre.
“Pull north and get a few yards ahead,” Mirage said, “I’ll take it from there.”
“Stupid, idiot kids!” Quicksand snarled, as she tried to crush Sabre again and again. Her temper got the best of her when she saw Sabre skid to a stop. Forming her hands into a spiked mace, she swung her arms like a whip and came crashing down upon the mutant.
“Worthless, annoying gnat…!” Quicksand said. She took a moment to confirm her handiwork, and then realized that there was no body to be found.
“For what it’s worth…”
Mirage, standing behind Quicksand, let her arrow fly.
“I fully understand the desire.”
The psychic arrow struck Quicksand from behind. She screamed, as the energy lanced through her mind, and she struggled to hold her body together, a dozen different hands grabbing into the air for something that wasn’t there, before gradually falling into a pile of sand.
“That…looked terrible,” Sabre observed.
“I think my arrow screwed up how she holds her body together,” Mirage said, “not pretty, I’ll agree.”
There was a crackle of thunder, and Tarene struck the ground like a comet, digging a deep trench into the earth.
“Tempest is as strong as we were told,” Tarene said, as she stood up and brushed the earth and grass from her body.
“…thank you could pull that trick again?” Sabre asked, as Tempest levitated towards them.
“You are all fools,” Tempest shouted, her voice booming like thunder, “I don’t know how you might have discovered our plans, but you won’t stop us!”
Mirage generated another psychic arrow, ready to test her luck, but Tempest had already seen what happened to Quicksand. She lashed out with lighting from several directions, and Sabre had barely a split second to grab Mirage around the waist, and get her out of range.
“Hey!” Tarene snarled, “leave my friends alone! I’m not done with you yet!”
Tempest gave a bitter chuckle, “Little Godling, you may have influence over the storms, but I am them! And you’ll…argh!”
Tempest fell forward, and clutched her head. Agony had lanced through every cell in her body, in a way she never imagined possible.
“Hey, look at that,” Scorpion said, “looks like I’m the water to your fire, bitch.”
Tempest looked at Scorpion in fear and confusion, “You, are completely toxic!”
“Yeah, tell me something I don’t know,” Scorpion replied, “stay down, misty or I’ll give you enough to choke on!”
“This battle is pointless,” Tempest growled. Her form exploded in a cloud of blue mist, that began swirling faster and faster, “but I am gifted with more than just nature. My winds will carry us to victory!”
The mist grew larger and spun faster than anyone, even Sabre, could have anticipated, and then stopped just as suddenly.
When it was over, there wasn’t enough wind to lift a single blade of grass, and the Force of Nature was gone.
“God damn it, I hate magic,” Sabre threw her hands up in frustration.
Tarene cleared her throat.
“Not you,” Sabre said, “you’re one of the good ones.”
“Wow, there’s so much to unpack in that statement,” Mirage said.
“Gonna have to wait on that.”
Nova landed a few yards away with a heavy thud.
“I lost Air-Breaker. Our fight got a little too close to air traffic, so I had to let him get away,” said Nova, “gotta admit, I preferred delivering bad news when I wasn’t the leader.”
“Oh my God!”
Force Works turned, and saw X-Treme and Wolfsbane walking towards them, with a distraught Myra Hail in the forefront.
Her eyes swept over the ruined farm, her eyes wet and her heart broken.
“Years of work,” Myra said in disbelief, “our equipment, everything…!”
Nova cringed inwardly, as he approached Myra. One of the burdens of leadership sometimes, was being the whipping boy, the scapegoat. He suspected that Myra might have information they needed, but he knew it wouldn’t come at a free cost to his ego.
“Ma’am, I’m so sorry,” Nova said, “I wish we’d done a better job containing them, but we did the best we could, and…”
“Better job?” Myra shook her head, and squeezed her eyes shut, composing herself, “those maniacs might have killed us. I should have done something the second they brought in Quicksand, left alone that sociopath Firebrand.”
“Please, you have to stop them. Or this…”
Myra motioned towards the devastated farm.
“…this will be the least of the damage they do.”
Next issue: Force Works has to track down the Force of Nature, but what is their real endgame?