Fall-Out

Fall-Out is the twenty-fifth episode of the series, Mutant Drake.

Plot
In the ocean, some time ago, the sky remains a light shade of orange with the sun resting on the horizon and a white streak rippling across the ways. There are no clouds in sight and nothing seen in the distance by the moving waves of the water.

At the center of it all, lies of a small wooden boat with what appears to be two people on board. The boat, itself, appears to be worn out with a couple of holes and scratches towards the upper areas. Some scratches appear to run deeper than others, almost looking like the work of some animal upon closer inspection. On one side of the boat, Drake sits there in his Vigilante suit with the goggles removed- staring ahead, surprised and rendered speechless.

Voice: I know, I know. It’s a bit of a shock, really, but I’m sure you’ll get used to it… eventually.

Across from him, sits John Reed in usual blue jacket over his indigo shirt. He has his hands in his lap as he sits there, patiently.

John: I was talking about myself in case you thinking about the boat. Got to say though… it is a nice boat.

John examines the side of the boat more thoroughly while Drake begins to start a response.

Drake: John… John, is it- really you?

John: Yes. It’s me, Drake.

Drake: But you’re- you-

John: Yeah… That kinda did happen, didn’t it?

Drake: But you’re talking to me now. A-And we’re… in the water.

John: Kinda like our first mission together over in Coney Island. Remember that? (chuckle) Those were some good times, dude…

Drake: I don’t… I don’t understand.

John: Don’t worry. You will. In time. But right now isn’t the time to be looking back…

The boat then begins to rock against the waves slightly.

John: Right now, you need to look out for yourself.

The boat begins to shake more as distorted thunder echoes in the short distance. Drake holds onto the sides of the boat as it becomes more and more restless.

Drake: John, what do you me-

Water then splashes onto Drake’s hand and a spark occurs on contact with his skin. He releases the side of the boat and holds his hand as the boat begins to tip over. He falls onto his back and crashes onto the bottom of boat- tensing up in pain upon the impact. He then opens his eyes and looks up as the waves starts to come down into the boat, splashing against Drake- who holds his hands up in surprise. More sparks then occur, covering the screen in a white flare as it transitions back to Drake, laying against some debris with an electric cord sizzling near his head. He jolts back to consciousness as the cord sparks off again, causing him to flinch away from the defective wire. He then looks around, finding himself with his back against a broken part of the facility. Around him, more debris and destroyed items within a caved-in space. Drake rolls off from the platform and falls onto the ground, misplacing his step and slightly sliding down a slope of crushed material. He then presses up against the ground and raises to his feet- a faint ringing in his ears as his holds the side of his head. Another spark flies out from that cord as a proper view of the caved-in room is seen with Drake moving further down and stepping carefully.

Drake: Hello? Hello!

Drake continues downwards until he stops at a flat-enough surface. His breathing is slightly labored as he looks around the area. Some coughing is then heard in the close distance, catching Drake’s attention immediately. He rushes over to the source of the sound and soon finds Kate laying against the floor- a large structure shifted over her; she appears to be pinned beneath it.

Drake: Kate. Are you alright?

She remains silent, as if struggling to even look up at him.

Drake: Can you move?

Kate: N-No.

Drake glares at the structure and activates his Fire Fists form. He then presses against the structure and grabs hold of the bottom with his now large hands. He then crouches down slightly as he begins to lift the structure up from the ground. He continues to exert more strength as he lifts the structure up higher; the flames from his hands even start to burn hotter as they rise from the cracks in his hands. As the structure continues being lifted, Kate starts to crawl out from underneath it while Drake’s strains can be heard off to the side. Once Kate is clear, Drake holds the structure up for a moment before letting go. The structure then slams down against the ground- stirring up a dust cloud as Drake’s form deactivates. He nearly loses his footing then he leans against a different wall to catch his breath. After a few long breaths, he turns to Kate who props herself upright against a wall across from him- coughing afterwards but then catching her breath as well.

Drake: What are you doing here?

Kate: Really? You want to talk about this now?

Drake: There isn’t anything to talk about. You shouldn’t be here.

Kate: Hey, if it weren’t for me you would still be stuck in that energy… thing.

Drake: It didn’t really matter either way. The explosion still happened…

Kate: Speaking of which… it looks like we’re trapped down here. Think you can use your powers to get us out of here?

Drake: No.

Kate: What? Why not?

Drake: There’s too much material in the way. And I don’t know how far down we are… Besides, I don’t have a lot of strength right now. I must still be healing or… something.

Kate: So what are we going to do?

Drake: We look for a way out.

Kate: That could take a long time. Time that we might not even have.

Drake: Then we better get started.

Drake pushes up from the wall and walks past Kate- moving further into the caved-in area. Kate watches him past by her before getting up herself.

Kate: H-Hey!

She follows after Drake and the two of them move further off past the debris in the area. After a short while, they come across a slope which leads towards a metallic wall of some sort. Drake places his hand against its side and stands still for a moment. Kate watches him- soon crossing her arms.

Kate: What is it?

Drake: A wall…

Kate: Well, yeah… so that means we’re trapped then.

Drake: No. There’s a space on the other side. Must be a room that wasn’t affected by the explosion We just need a way inside.

Drake takes his hand off from the wall to hold the side of his head once more. As he keeps feeling his head, his hand wanders more towards his face where his hand shifts around- as if looking for something. He then turns- looking at the ground around him.

Drake: Where- Where are my goggles?

Kate: Huh? Oh yeah, you had goggles on before. They must’ve gotten blown off from the explosion.

Drake: I need them. I can’t be the Vigilante without them. (turning to Kate) Why didn’t you say anything earlier?

Kate: Sorry, I didn’t know you had to be the Vigilante around me.

Drake is silent for a moment before turning his head slightly towards his shoulder. He notices his hood shifting slightly from a breeze then looks up to see an air duct above them against the wall.

Drake: That’s our way in.

Drake takes his hood and throws it over his head- which partially conceals his face. He then throws his arm out and activates his Stone Slicer form. Drake then runs up at the wall, pressing his foot against it then kicking off to jump up towards the vent. He strikes the air duct with his arm- breaking off the grate covering it. He then grabs hold of the ledge and deactivates his form. He then extends his arm out at Kate- who keeps her arms crossed still. Drake grunts under his breath and Kate, with a sigh, unfolds her arms and reaches out for Drake- taking his hand. He pulls her up as he crawls into the vent. Kate gathers herself in the vent and turns up ahead, crawling after Drake. The two remain silent as they shuffle through the air duct’s ventilation shaft. Kate clears her throat before breaking the silence.

Kate: So… you’re still doing the Vigilante thing then.

Drake: ...You don’t know. Aren’t you a reporter-in-training still?

Kate: ...Just a reporter now, actually.

Drake: Oh.

Kate: I don’t follow Vigilantes anymore. I only do real news, things people want to read. Things that are… you know, relevant.

Drake is silent as he continues crawling ahead.

Kate: What? You don’t have anything to say about that?

Drake: Not really, no.

Kate: ...Hmph. I see. You know if you’re not interested you should just say so.

Drake: I’m just thinking about more important things right now, Kate.

The two are silent again. Kate looks up ahead- clearly upset before looking away, still crawling ahead. A sigh is then heard from before her.

Drake: But it sounds like it’s you who isn’t interested.

Kate, looking back ahead: Huh?

Drake: If you don’t want to follow Vigilantes then that’s what you want. There isn’t really anything for me to say.

Kate: ...I guess not.

Drake, stopping: We’re here.

Drake kicks down the grate which flies out into the room. He then drops down into the room and looks up ahead- peering beneath his hood. Kate drops down, not as boldly and looks around the room; it appears to be some kind of laboratory. There’s scientific equipment, computers, some medical equipment including beds and surgical tables as well as big metallic pods propped up against the walls with cords connected to them.

Kate: Looks like some kind of laboratory…

Drake: I was here before. When I snuck in… R-Corp was bringing in these pods.

Drake looks over at the pods, noticing that the cords reach up to the ceiling where they connect with some kind of energy relay device, similar to that of Xyrion and R-Corp technology.

Drake: Looks like they were connected to some kind of power source.

Kate: Never a good sign.

Kate turns towards the medical equipment, examining them more carefully.

Kate: It looks like they’re preparing a lot of medical aid here. What type of experiments do you think Reeves was pulling off down here?

Drake approaches Kate and reaches past her. Kate turns with anticipation, only to see Drake reach and grab for some of the safety goggles- sitting on a shelf. He then places them on as she glares at him with an annoyed expression.

Kate: You look ridiculous.

Drake: (sigh) Whatever it is that Reeves is planning… I feel like it has something to do with those pods over there.

Drake turns his attention to the pods once more and makes his way over while Kate keeps her distance, watching cautiously. As Drake steps close to one of the pods, he raises his hand over to the window at the center and wipes it. The dust and fog clears up with a single swipe and the face of a person inside becomes visible. Drake steps back while Kate approaches with care.

Kate: What is it?

Drake: Someone’s in there.

Kate: What?

Kate takes a look herself- seeing the person inside; from their face alone, they appear to be female with their eyes closed.

Kate: They were… transporting people in these pods?

Drake: We have to get them out of here.

Kate: Wait, are you sure that’s such a good idea? What if those pods are keeping them alive.

Drake: As long as they’re in those pods, Reeves could be killing them by connecting them to that machine of his!

Kate: I’m just saying that we don’t exactly know how these things work.

Drake: Look, we don’t have time to decide, Kate. I can’t stand by while lives are in danger.

Kate’s eyes widen ever so slightly in response before a flash of light appears off to the side, ‘causing her to close her eyes for a second and squint to see what’s occurring. She sees Drake start hacking into the pod by simply placing his hand on the side of the interface. Soon enough, the pod door activates and its mechanism slides open before the door unfolds. A smoke leaves the pod with the silhouette of a woman inside soon gaining an appearance as the smoke fades. She has black hair with dark green highlights; its stylized in a braided bun with some of her hair down over her shoulders. She’s dressed in a black, skin-tight suit with an open collar and some straps around her arms and knees. Her shoulders are exposed and she has a kind of utility belt around her waist. Drake looks over her, studying her face then moving down to her outfit.

Kate: Well?

Drake, placing his hand on her shoulder: She’s not dead. But the machine is. The source of its power stopped but the pods are still active. They shouldn’t be affected by the machine anymore but… the pods can hold them in some kind of stasis. These outfits are… ugh- weird though.

Kate: Yeah… They almost remind me of the MCA.

Drake: I was thinking the same thing. I mean… similar outfits were worn by enemies I fought before. But this is more… science-based.

Kate: Science-based?

Drake: It has science in it. Look- the patterns on her outfit.

Drake points at the lines leading from clavicle downwards then points to a similar pattern on his own suit where his side is.

Kate: Yeah, I see it now. They must be designed with technology built in, maybe so they function after the experiments.

Drake: But what are these experiments about?

Kate: I’ll have a look around. I might be able to figure something out.

Drake: No. I’ll have a look around. You stay with her. She needs… someone.

Kate: And that someone can’t be you. I’m trying to be useful here. Journalism is about searching for the truth, not babysitting some pod person.

Drake: You’re not even supposed to be here. Just let me do what I have to do, alright?

Kate: ...And what are you going to do?

Drake: Find out more about this machine… and these pods. This lab has to have something.

Drake turns and walks off from the pod, leaving Kate with the person there. She glares at Drake leaves her behind then turns to the woman. Drake looks around, approaching a more damaged section of the laboratory. He then comes across a computer system, crushed under some debris. He kneels down and places his hand on the screen, hacking into it. The screen shows some static and coding for a brief moment but soon displays an operation system with only a couple of glitched parts to it.

Drake: It still works. Now for information…

Drake searches the system for a short moment before shifting back slightly.

Drake: ...What?

The computer displays a screen that reads, “=/-= Subjects” with the first word being glitched out.

Drake: Subjects?

Drake’s head moves down slightly as if looking down. He sees more of the screen’s content with a list of names appearing underneath the title: “Veronica Dorn, Micheal Hickman, Heather Gruffurd, Dylan Wittenberg, Elias Hernandez”.

Drake: What does he mean by “subjects”? Were they taken? …And then experimented on?

He glances off to the side, as if reminiscent of a terrible memory. A faint voice is then heard, followed by another in the form of a kind of echo. Drake lifts his head up and looks around towards the debris as he continues to hear the indistinct echoing voices.

Drake: Is someone there?

He continues looking around, searching for the source of these gentle, echoing voices. Back with Kate, she looks over the still unconscious woman and places a hand on her arm as she leans in for a better view to examine her closely. Hastily, her eyes dart open with her pupils shrunken. The person in the pod starts to wake up as she visibly starts shaking. It starts to increase rapidly as she starts looking around him seeing Drake and Kate. She smacks her to the ground with force but not too hard. Drake hears a thud and rushes over to see what happened. He looks down at Kate, seeing her on the floor and looks at the mysterious woman. Drake: What did you do to her?!

Drake charges at the woman, who then starts to attack him back. He stands back, avoiding her wild swings until she strikes him against the head. He then retaliates by punching her in the face, to which she responds by roaring out and tackling him into some machinery. Drake grunts in pain and presses against her shoulders as if to push her off of him.

Drake: Gah! I know you were experimented on, just ca-calm down already!

However, the woman continues striking against Drake- starting to overwhelm him in fact. He then presses through the pain and- with a frustrated snarl- he activates his Sonar Scales form. A vibrational force then emits from one of his open ports- knocking her off of him. Drake takes a breath before charging for her. The woman shakes off the feeling and swings her head towards Drake’s direction. However, before she can get the chance to react, Drake slams one of his scale shields into her head- knocking her back down again. As she starts to turn over, more slowly this time, he presses the scale against her neck and pins her down. Her rage starts to return to her as she lashes out, pushing up against the scale, however Drake is resilient and manages to withstand her attempts. As the moment starts to draw on, she becomes calmer and calmer until she stops fighting altogether. Drake then starts to loosen up on the shield- simply pressing lightly on her chest.

Drake: Easy… you probably just went through a lot.

Woman: ...What- ugh-

She holds her head, covering her eyes with her hand.

Drake: Do you know where you are? ...Who you are?

Woman: Who I am… I’m- ugh-

Drake: It’s alright. Take it slow.

Woman: I’m Veronica… Veronica Dorn. Where- I’m-

She continues to grunt as she attempts to remember.

Drake: You’re at a facility… an R-Corp research facility. You were experimented on.

Veronica: Yes… I remember now. The experiment… it-

Drake: There was an explosion but the pods are intact, along with everyone else in them. You went into a rage. I think that’s your mind settling in. Are you alright now?

Veronica: ...I am. Is there no one else left?

Drake: …I don’t know. (looks off to the side)

Veronica: So who are you then?

Drake, turning back to her: I’m the Vigilante. I’m going to get you out of here.

Veronica: ....Vigilante?

Vigilante: Are you sure you’re alright?

Veronica: You’re the Vigilante?

Vigilante: ...Yes.

Veronica: Well then, that explains it.

She grips the edges of his scale form and pushes up against it, harder than before.

Veronica: This all happened because of you!

She manages to push him back a bit; enough space for her to get up back to her feet. Drake readies himself.

Vigilante: I didn’t do this to you. Anton Reeves did when he captured you for experiments.

Veronica: You think Reeves captured me? (chuckles) I volunteered!

Vigilante: Y-You did what?

Veronica: How else is someone supposed to stand up against threats like you? Before I was powerless against all of you alike- Mutants, Aliens. But now that the experiment must have worked… I’m powerless no longer!

She then shoots her hands out, releasing an electric wave of energy ahead at the Vigilante. He bears his teeth in surprise and raises his arm where the vibrational force pulls the scale in place. The energy then directs into the scale and acts as a concussive force, knocking him back into more machinery until he falls onto the floor. The woman then smirks with a scoff.

Veronica: So much for all the fear surrounding you. Turns out you were nothing more than a punk with powers. But now so am I… or rather-

She turns to the remaining pods with a sadistic smile.

Veronica: So are we.

She then approaches the pods with the Vigilante groaning faintly, behind her. The scene then cuts over to the woman interacting the pod’s interfaces. Kate watches from behind a shelf as she sees the woman start opening the pods. She then shifts back slightly with the sound of something metallic scraping slightly against the floor. She turns her head, seeing her foot press against a piece of piping against some small pieces of debris. Her eyes then shift back to the woman near the pods. Smoke soon fades from the open pods where the woman stares into one of them, reaching her hand inside.

Veronica: Yes… quite a success indeed. He will be proud to see how far we’ve come, Micheal.

Her arm can be seen moving slightly as if rubbing something. She then looks up ahead, moving away from that pod individual pod.

Veronica: And now for the others.

Veronica continues but stops in her tracks as the pipe slams against her head. Kate takes another swing but the pipe is grabbed by Veronica. She then opens her eyes and glares down at Kate- soon snatching the pipe from her hands. The force of the snatch is enough to knock Kate down to her feet. Veronica then bends the pipe with her hands and tosses it aside. Kate scrambles to her feet and readies herself.

Kate: I’m not afraid of you.

Veronica: Of me? No, I wouldn’t expect you to be. But us-

Soon, as if on command, a larger brutish man with a mutated form steps from the pod behind Veronica while a lanky man with an exposed eye and open mouth with no jaw steps ahead as well. Kate gasps and looks ahead at them wide eyed as they start to approach her menacingly.

Kate: N-No wait!

The more brutish test subject raises their arm as if to attack Kate, however a yell is heard off from the side as the Vigilante tackles the three of them with his Fire Fists form activated. They all crash into one of the pods. The Vigilante strikes the brutish one a few times. He then raises his fist to strike down on the others but his arm is grabbed by bandage-like material. He glances back fiercely and sees a short woman stretching out her hand into strands- each one of them wrapped around his arm. He pulls against it but to no prevail. The brutish Mutant then strikes back, sending the Vigilante flying into a different pod, cracking the door open a bit. Inside, a hand can be seen flinching slightly. The Vigilante then holds his head and turns to the four powered individuals before him.

Voice: Amazing, isn’t it? What the power of R-Corp Industries can accomplish…

The Vigilante grunts and turns to see Reeves entering the laboratory, arms behind his back with a smug smile on his face.

Vigilante: Reeves…

Reeves: Just when I thought the building fell on you and that would be it.

Vigilante: I almost can’t believe you survived too…

Reeves: What can I say… I’m quite resourceful in a bind. Speaking of resources, it took quite the amount to get this project running and low and behold- it was a success. (looking over his subjects) Worth every penny, I’d say.

The Vigilante stands uneasily- soon gaining some resolve.

Vigilante: You have no idea what you started. The Incident isn’t something you can just mess around with!

Reeves: It became my business when you got involved in my affairs. Besides, the experiment was successful… despite the cost of the facility, itself. It matters not anyways. We can always build another. Money and manpower were never an issue for me. They’re all resources to me after all.

Vigilante: Whatever you have planned... it won’t work.

Reeves: Oh? Why, because you’ll stop me? I don’t think you noticed but you aren’t dealing with just me anymore. I might not have those aliens to rely on but I have my test subjects. They volunteered for this program, to get powers, so they understand what they have to do to pay back my efforts.

Veronica: Destroy you and everything you stand for.

Reeves: And don’t forget his journalistic friend over there too.

Reeves turns his head and sees Kate.

Reeves: We can’t have word of this leaking to the press.

Vigilante: Leave her alone! It’s me, you want.

Reeves: You two seem awfully connected.

Vigilante: We’re not… not anymore.

Kate glances over at the Vigilante.

Reeves: Then you won’t mind them finishing her off either way then.

Vigilante: No!

The four of Reeves’ test subjects then start to advance towards Kate. The Vigilante turns to a column, noticing the structure damaged from the blast. He then grunts and forms his Fire Fists

Reeves: There are four of them and only one of you. Do you honestly expect to take th-

The Vigilante throws out a fireball attack at the column’s weak points, causing it to become unstabilized. Debris then starts to drop down from above as the roof begins to fall in on them.

Reeves: Gah! You fool! (to his subjects) Quickly, get me out of here! Now!

Veronica nods and gives a signal to the big one who walks over, raising his arm to prevent debris from dropping down on Reeves. The four of them then escort Reeves out of the laboratory while the room becomes more unstable. The Vigilante rushes over to Kate and throws his arms up as debris crashing down on them. This goes on for a moment before it starts to settle. Dust fills the air but soon fades as debris fills the laboratory. A rock can be seen shifting among the debris before being lifted up. The Vigilante rises up, breathing hard and giving Kate some room to stand, herself. His form reverts and his hands return back to normal as Kate stands, hesitantly.

Vigilante: Are you alright?

Kate: Am I alright? Are you out of your mind?! You dropped the entire roof down on us!

Vigilante: They were coming after you and had me outnumbered. I had to put some space between us and them.

Kate, looking around: Well, it looks like you did just that. We’re closed off. In fact, I might just say that we’re trapped again.

Vigilante: Then we’ll find a way out like the last time. Reeves will be looking for a way out too. You heard him, this place doesn’t mean anything to him anymore now that he has what he wants.

Kate: I guess we’ll want to leave before he does then.

The Vigilante remains silent as he looks around the place. Kate scoffs and glances off to the side, crossing her arms again. She then looks up with a curious expression- before her, is one of the pods that were damaged in the fight between the Vigilante and Reeves’ test subjects. Inside the pod, there is a glowing light shining within. Kate takes a few steps forward but steps back when a banging sound is heard against the door. The Vigilante turns instantly to the pod to see the door get bent upwards with another bang. The door continues to be slammed against from the inside with the light growing brighter with each hit until it flies straight off of its hinges. The Vigilante readies himself and stands before Kate, pushing her back.

Vigilante: Watch out. It could be another one.

Only a little smoke exits the pod as a male figure in a similar black suit drops out of the pod, crashing to the floor- hard.

Person: GAH!

The Vigilante and Kate glance at each other before turning their attention back to the person on the floor. He groans for a moment before pushing up from the floor, still on his knees. He has dark hair styled in a spiky, faded look and sharp red eyes.

Person: ...Who are you supposed to be?

Vigilante: ...Uh. The er- Vigilante.

Person: Vigilante? (break) Wait, that’s you?!

The Vigilante springs to his feet and the Vigilante readies himself.

Kate: Look, stop! We already ran into some of your friends but now we’re trapped down here. So if you want to fight him or me then tough luck. It won’t get you anywhere.

The person glares at Kate then turns to the Vigilante.

Person: She with you?

Vigilante: ...At the moment, yes.

Kate: She’s also still in the room.

Person: Ghk! Fine. I was freaking out back there, my pod door wouldn’t even open. But now that I settled that, I’m really a little calmer in the head. (realizing something) Hey, did that have something to do with you?!

Vigilante: Yes.

Person: Why’d you say it so casually for?!

Vigilante: You asked, I answered.

Kate: Ugh… Look, it was your guys who threw him around like that.

Person: My guys? You mean the other volunteers?

Vigilante: So you’re a volunteer too. You signed up for the powers.

Person: ...Yeah. Look, I have my reasons. I got nothing to explain to you!

Kate: Well, this is off to a fantastic start. Since we’re going to be working together, you got a name or am I going to have to call you Shouts McGee?

Person: Gr! It’s Elias…

Vigilante: Elias Hernandez?

Elias: Yeah? What’s it to you?!

Vigilante: Nothing. I just saw your name on a computer. It just confirms that you’re one of the subjects.

Elias: Of course it does! I just told you, didn’t I?

Vigilante: No, you don’t understand. There were four other volunteers. Then with you, that would make five. So why are there six pods?

The Vigilante turns and points to a pod behind him, which appears more damaged than Elias’ pod.

Elias: Another volunteer?

Kate: But you said the computer mentioned only five subjects.

Vigilante: It makes me wonder who we’re stuck with then.

Elias: More like they’re stuck in here with me!

Kate: Do you even know what your power is?

Elias: Uh- punching stuff?

Kate: Oh my gosh…

The Vigilante then approaches the pod, extending a hand out behind him.

Vigilante: Stay back, we don’t know what we’re dealing with here.

Elias mocks him and continues ahead, leaving Kate behind who expresses her annoyance. The Vigilante then places his hand on the side of the pod where the interface is. He turns his head, noticing a tank leaking gas of some kind. He then hacks into the interface and, soon enough, the doors open. There is no smoke when the pod opens up but rather a scrawny and bald man laying inside. His head has dark patterns etched onto it but they appear natural as opposed to some kind of design. He then rises up, yelling and holding his head a moment later. The Vigilante readies himself and Elias raises up his fists as a reflex. He then stops, almost exhausted and looking faint. Kate steps ahead, looking concerned.

Kate: Is he… alright?

Elias: He looks sick.

Vigilante: I guess it has different effects on people.

Elias: The experiment?

Vigilante: ...The Incident.

The Vigilante reaches over and places a hand on his shoulder. The man, still holding his head, looks up and meets their glances- all of their glances.

Man: Where- GAH! My- ugh, my head…

Vigilante: Take it slow. You were just experimented on.

Man: Yes, I remember. I was taken. What did they do to me?!

Elias: Wait, you don’t know?

Man: No! I told you I was taken.

Kate: You mean you didn’t volunteer?

Man: Why would I volunteer to be experimented on?

Elias: I don’t understand.

Vigilante: You were abducted. That explains why he wasn’t on the list of test subjects back on that computer. (to the man) Do you remember what happened?

Man: No. I just- it’s fuzzy. My head is really- hurting right now.

Vigilante: Sorry. What’s your name?

Man: Lester. Lester Imparden.

He lowers his hands from his head and looks over at the Vigilante.

Lester: Are you- the Vigilante?

The Vigilante only nods. In response, Lester smiles softly.

Lester: Oh thank you! Now that you’re here, we’ll be safe. I- I know what you did for our city. You stopped those Mutant attacks a-and that alien invasion!

Elias: Oh, did he now? (scoff) (to himself) What a kiss-up...

Kate: Hey, I think I found something over here.

The Vigilante turns from Lester to Kate who appears to have discovered some kind of shaft besides some small pieces of debris.

Vigilante: Where does that lead?

Kate: No clue. I'm guessing to the lower levels of the facility. Geez, how far down does this place go?

Vigilante: However deep it is, we need to keep moving. Our way up is downwards, I guess.

The scene then cuts over to the ventilation shaft with the Vigilante crawling ahead. The view then pans towards the left where Kate can be seen crawling behind him, looking quite peeved at her situation.

Kate: Ventilation Shafts again, huh?

She groans for a moment but is bumped from behind. Her sudden surprise quickly turns to an upset shout. She turns back and smacks her hand behind herself. Kate: Hey, watch it back there!

The view pans more so to the left where Elias is at the receiving end of the smack, crawling ahead through the duct as well.

Elias: H-Hey! You watch it! I wasn’t even trying anything!

The view pans even more to the left where Lester crawls ahead, uncomfortably. He holds his head once more, struggling to keep up with the others. At the front, the Vigilante continues moving forward but comes to a stop when the sound of faint voices are heard.

Vigilante: Wait, do you hear that?

Kate: Huh? Hear what?

Vigilante: It’s coming from over here. Come on.

The Vigilante advances forward, moving towards the right side of the duct. Soon enough, he drops down into another open area, this one looking more so like a company rather than a research facility, with potted plants and paintings hung as well as calm, professional design on the walls.

He looks around while Kate drops down behind him, more gracefully than her first time around. She appears proud of this but notices the Vigilante looking elsewhere. The duct then shakes with noise, prompting Kate to move out of the way before Elias drops out roughly, in fact more so crashing out of the duct, he does however land on his feet this time. He rises up, pointing a thumb to his chest.

Elias: Ha! Nailed it!

Lester then drops down, landing on top of Elias- knocking him down to the floor once more.

Elias: Gah! C-Come on, man!

Lester: Sorry, sorry!

Kate looks down with a smug expression.

Kate: Nailed it, huh?

Elias: Shut it!

Elias gets up, pushing Lester off of him while they appear more spread out.

Lester: At least, we have some room to move.

Elias: Great, I’m getting tired of hanging around, you guys.

Kate: These must be the lower levels of the facility. Honestly, it looks like something straight out of one of those companies you see in the magazines.

Vigilante: This is R-Corp, alright.

Elias: You sound so dang condescending when you say that.

Vigilante: Huh?

Elias: Like you’re talking down about them.

Vigilante: R-Corp helped the alien invasion happen.

Elias: Those were just rumors. Anton Reeves was cleared of the charges.

Kate: (scoff) And you honestly believe that?

Elias: ...Yeah. I do.

Kate actually looks taken back by his response. The Vigilante looks ahead at them but glances off to the side, upon hearing faint voices once more. He then steps off to the side, walking down a hallway while the others talk among themselves. Kate, however, glances over- seeing the Vigilante leave. As the Vigilante keeps walking ahead, the voices sound clearer and start to overlap one another. The Vigilante holds the side of his head as he enters the room, now so in a hurry. However, the room is empty of any persons and looks more like a small waiting room of some kind.

Vigilante: Eh?

He looks around as a hand comes down on his shoulder. He then whips back and sees John, standing behind him.

John: Whoa, easy there. You look like you saw a ghost. Heh.

Vigilante: What?! No, you- you can’t be here.

John: And yet, here I am. Funny how things work, right?

Vigilante: I don’t-

He takes a second of breath while Kate walks past the opening. She then steps back and looks inside.

Kate: Hey, uh- you okay?

Vigilante: Uh, yeah. I’m-

He glances over at John then at Kate, who looks at him questionably.

Vigilante: I’m fine.

Kate: Right. Well Elias and Lester are looking around for an exit, I’ll keep an eye on them for now but- just thought you should know and all. I’ll… see you back there.

Kate turns and leaves. Her footsteps can be heard becoming more distant while the Vigilante turns to John again.

Vigilante: Kate… She- She didn’t see you.

John: No. She didn’t.

The Vigilante takes off his goggles and lowers his head, looking directly at John.

Drake: How is this possible? How come only I can see you?

John: Who can say? All I know is you’re in trouble right now.

Drake: Yeah, we’re trapped down here.

John: Well, yes. That’s one way of putting it.

Drake: That’s the only way of putting it.

John: True. But that isn’t your only problem here, Drake.

Drake: You mean Reeves, don’t you? And his Mutant test subjects. You… you’re a scientist, you can tell me what he’s planning, right?

John: You’re getting colder and colder, Drake. The real problem is staring you right in the face and you’re not even noticing.

Drake: W-What real pr-

Before Drake can finish his response, some shouts can be heard from the hall.

Kate, indistinctly: Hey! Vigilante!

John: You’d better check it out. Kate doesn’t seem as patient as she used to be.

Drake: But-

John: Oh go on, already. I’m not going anywhere, dude.

Drake is hesitant to move but finds himself, leaving the side room- putting the safety goggles on and lifting his head up. The Vigilante soon emerges back towards the main area, looking around for the others.

Kate, more clearly: Hey!

The Vigilante turns his head and sees Kate waving him over down the hall. She’s standing with the other two. He then makes his way over.

Kate: We think we may have found something.

Elias: Yeah, could be a way out of here.

Vigilante: Let me see.

The Vigilante moves ahead, seeing a door. He places his hand on the interface next to it and starts hacking into the interface. Soon enough, the interface activates and the locking mechanism disables. The Vigilante then pushes the door open and steps inside. Kate and Elias follow after, surprise reaching their faces.

Kate: No way…

Before them, there are designs and schematics for a variety of Mutant combinations. The designs show the scientific equations as violent and armored creatures branding the R-Corp symbol on their uniforms. There are also displays showing off prototype armor and uniforms in the designs as well as weapons suited for each type of Mutant they would have. Kate looks at the concepts with wide eyes.

Kate: This is…

Vigilante: An army. Reeves is planning on building an army.

Elias: That’s uh- wow.

Lester: Reeves is… this powerful?

Vigilante: No. Not yet. So far he has four powered test subjects, if he escapes, he could get more. I can’t let that happen.

Elias: Don’t forget, I’m supposed to be working for that guy.

Vigilante: Are you trying to get in my way?

Elias: I’m just saying, man. Maybe we should focus on getting out of here rather than attacking my… I dunno, the guy who gave me powers.

Kate: He has a point, Vigilante…

Vigilante: (sigh) Alright. Let’s keep moving. There must be some way to get out of here.

The Vigilante moves up ahead and the others follow after him with the exception of Lester who watches the designs with rapid eyes.

Elias: Hey!

Lester shakes then turns to Elias.

Elias: You coming or what?

Lester: Y-Yeah. Of course. Sorry.

Lester walks before Elias who watches him move up ahead before walking behind him. The four of them start to advance into a more industrial part of the level, where machinery is more exposed and the walls are more metallic. There are circuits and mechanisms in place that appear to keep the facility running and powered.

The Vigilante passes by some machines that have Xyrion technology incorporated into them; they appear to be generating some kind of discharge that is channeled into the remaining components made from R-Corp technology as distiguished from the logo branded on them.

Kate: Is that…?

Vigilante: Yeah. Xyrion technology.

Kate: I never thought I’d see it in person again.

Vigilante: The Invasion was a while ago but the technology from it is still being passed around by the criminal underworld. Technology given out by R-Corp.

Elias: You and R-Corp this, R-Corp that. Where’s your proof?

Vigilante: I’m the Vigilante. I don’t need proof.

Elias: Do you even know what that means? Vigilante? Because it doesn’t mean what you think it means, alright? You’re not some kind of hero.

Vigilante: I never said I was. Because I am not a hero.

Elias: Exactly. We can’t rely on you. Sometimes we people have to stand up for themselves and make their own differences. People like Reeves.

Vigilante: He’s a criminal, a thug in a suit.

Elias: Funny. It sounds like you’re just describing yourself. Don’t act coy, word passes fast around in the city, especially after all these years of you hopping rooftops. You break arms and legs and shout as loud as you can and you think you’re helping people? Reeves offered me a chance… he gave me these powers. It’s more than what you’ve done for me.

The Vigilante looks at Elias for a moment then turns his head away, moving off to the side.

Kate: You really think Reeves is some kind of savior, don’t you?

Elias: Look he had a secret base where he designed Mutants. I’m overwhelmed! I mean, does this make him the best man in the world? No. Course not. But I’m telling you what he did for me. If he wants me to use my powers to change the world then that’s what I’m going to do.

Lester: But he’s the Vigilante. If he says Reeves is a bad guy then… shouldn’t we listen?

Kate: I’ve had a few run-ins with him, myself. He’s not exactly the class-act he makes himself appear to be.

Elias: And who exactly are you? You’re not a test subject or an abductee, judging from your clothes. And you hate Reeves so you don’t work for R-Corp unless you’re sadistic. Wait, are you?

Kate: What? No. I’m not sadistic. I’m a reporter.

Lester: What are you doing here?

Kate: Following my hunch. Which lead me to, well-

She looks ahead at the Vigilante. He turns around, stroking his chin then catches a glance at Kate.

Elias: What- you two know each other?

Kate: Something like that. I mean- not really. He helped me out with my stories back when I was trying to get a promotion. But now I’m not interested in following Vigilantes anymore.

Lester: Why? What changed?

Kate’s gaze slowly lowers to the floor.

Elias: What? You just lose interest or something?

Her gaze rises back up to Drake. He keeps looking ahead at Kate then turns to look elsewhere.

Kate: Yeah. Something like that.

Lester: I’m interested in knowing what R-Corp is doing with alien technology. I thought this was cleaned up by the MCA.

Vigilante: It was. But R-Corp was involved in the clean up too. They must have gotten their hands on a good amount. It looks like they’re using it in the same way that the Xyrions were. Transferring power from Nanogenes to mutate people or something like that.

Kate: I thought Reeves hated Mutants.

Vigilante: He did. But he’s scared. Scared that I’ll ruin his plans. He wants to use Mutants to destroy other Mutants. Not just the Class-2’s but the Natural-Born too. Anyone who poses a threat to him.

Kate: I have to put this out. Central News needs to hear about this.

Vigilante: They might not let that happen.

Kate: Well, they can try and stop me and then we’ll see what happens.

The Vigilante gazes at Kate for a moment while Lester and Elias watch.

Lester: Well, uh- it seems like you two have some resolve.

The two then glance over at them then look at each other, more timidly this time.

Kate: Yeah, well- that’s just what we have to do to do the right thing, I guess.

Vigilante: Yeah… the uh- right thing for the city.

Elias, softy: For the city… Hm.

Lester: Uh- so the way out then.

Vigilante: Yes. We should look for that. I’ll look for it, you should stay here.

The Vigilante moves up ahead. Kate crosses her arms then huffs before walking off to the side. Elias does the same, investigating elsewhere.

Lester: Wait, we’re supposed to stay here. Th-that’s what he said, right?

Kate: I’m not going to just stand around and let him tell me what to do. I can take care of myself.

Elias: And I’m not going to let that guy boss me around.

Lester: Yeah… (as a sort of whimper) S-Same here…

Lester stands alone as Kate and Elias spread out. The Vigilante moves past pipework until they walks onto a grate-like floor. Steam bellows from underneath and hisses as the Vigilante rubs his head. The view circles around his head until John can be seen, leaning against one of the walls.

John: Headache? Aw, I don’t blame you one bit. Trust me, back when I was working at MCA, I kept on hearing all those MCA Officers drone on and on about orders. Kinda like what’s going on now, right? I mean- I guess I wouldn’t really know. That’s something leaders go through. That’s what you are, Drake. A leader. You lead people to victory.

Vigilante: I don’t lead. I go alone. I don’t need people. Not anymore…

John: You know I taught you a bunch of stuff like friendship and cool nicknames for your powers but uh- lying was not one of those things. That’s why you’re kinda bad at it.

Vigilante: What do you want me to say, John? That I am a leader?

John: Yes. Because it’s true.

Vigilante: I only lead people into trouble… or worse.

John: So that’s why you work alone? Because you’re afraid of hurting people?

Vigilante: I’m not afraid.

John: Then why are you running away from it all? You had friends, you had a place to stay, people to belong with. Is it… because of what I said? About saving the city?

Vigilante: I made you a promise, John. And I’m going to keep it.

John: A promise. Drake, you always save the city. I only asked that you continue doing it so what could possibly be different now?

Vigilante: Nothing is different. It’s always been the same. You’ve been in my memory. The one about the boat. So you must know what I saw. You must know what I did. It happened, it always happened. So that’s who I must become.

John: Not the Vigilante. But a killer. (sigh) This is a dangerous time for you, Drake. You’re being tempted by the dark side of your mind.

Vigilante: I know what I’m doing, John. Doing this will save the city.

John: Oh does it now? And how does this save the city? How does this keep my promise?

Vigilante: It just does, alright?! There will be less filth on the streets.

John: That’s not what the Vigilante I know would say. He would believe in doing the right thing. In helping people and fighting for justice. That’s my Drake. Not someone who wants to end lives to just make things quicker and easier.

Vigilante: What does it even matter anymore? I’m keeping your promise. I’m saving the city...

John: By becoming the type of person you save the city from? You’re becoming a criminal. A villain! Do you even realize what you’re trying to do?!

Vigilante: Why do criminals deserve to live? After all these years, don’t you think I’m ready to use death like I use one of my forms? Don’t you think that I should at least try to be the person I used to be?

John: What makes you think you know anything about death, Drake? Huh? What gives you the right?!

Vigilante, turning sharply to John: BECAUSE YOU DIED, JOHN! That’s how I know! (heavy breathing) (sigh) You’re dead… and I couldn’t save you.

Kate: Drake…

The Vigilante turns and sees Kate watching him from a few feet away.

Vigilante: Kate. I was- I just-

Kate slowly starts to approach him, her eyes starting to get all watery.

Vigilante, noticing this: Kate, it’s alright. I’m just-

Before he can utter another word, Kate slaps him across the face- tears running down her cheek down. Drake holds the side of his face and looks off to the side, mouth a gap.

Kate: How dare you. How dare you say his name after all this time. Especially around me!

Vigilante: ...You? He was my friend. My best friend!

Kate: He was my boyfriend, Drake! I loved- I loved him.

Vigilante: Did you?

Kate: What are you saying?

Vigilante: You never talk about him. You act like he was never even in our lives.

Kate: …I moved on.

Vigilante: No.

Kate: I had to.

Vigilante: No.

Kate: Drake, I-

Vigilante: No! You don’t get to do that. You don’t get to move on. None of us do. He deserves… more than this.

Kate: You think I don’t know that? You think I wanted for us to be like this?

Vigilante: Yes. I do.

Kate: Then I guess you didn’t know me as well you thought you did. I guess I can say the same about you too.

Vigilante: What’s that supposed to mean?

Kate: It means I waited for you, Drake! I waited for you to come. To do what you always did and swoop down. Have my back. Be my friend. Be there for me when I lost the person I loved. But you never came. You never came for me.

Vigilante: ...I was there.

Kate: W-What?

Vigilante: I was there… early on. I watched you from a distance. I had to make sure you were safe but that’s it. I thought- you needed the space. Then I thought maybe I needed space… from everyone else. Everything else.

Kate: Why would you think that?

Vigilante: Because I saw you that day. The way you pushed away others when you lost him. You knew what you were doing but I don’t know how to feel. I’m not like you. I’m not… Human.

Kate: Feeling loss isn’t something you do, Drake. It just- happens… I didn’t- ugh, I didn’t mean to push anyone away. I just- I just didn’t know what to do. I missed him… I still do. But there’s nothing I can do but move on. That’s why I can’t stand looking at Vigilante news. It just- reminds me of him all of the time.

Vigilante: Moving on… All this time I felt like pushing myself to saving the city more was what he wanted. It’s his memory that follows me, tells me what I need to do.

Kate: I think that voice- the John you hear in your head- that voice will only get you lost. You’ll lose yourself if you only focus on him.

Vigilante: And I think not remembering him at all will only make you lose what you had. I already lost my memories… I can’t lose this one. It means way too much to me. And if he means anything to you, keep him close- otherwise, you’ll lose him again.

Kate: ...I guess I can see your point. Either way, now is hardly the time to talk about this.

Vigilante: Right…

Kate: But it was… good.

Vigilante: Good?

Kate: Yeah. Talking about him. I had to push down my words for nearly two years… and when I actually wanted to say something, I just- couldn’t find them anymore. I had nothing left to say. At least, that’s what I thought.

Vigilante: I… like that I was able to help you… this time.

Kate: Yeah. Maybe we can help each other again… Maybe.

Some hissing can then be heard getting increasingly louder. Drake turns his head from Kate, his attention fixed on something towards the back. Kate looks off to the side as well while Drake starts to walk up ahead.

Kate: What? What is it?

Vigilante: I don’t know. But it doesn’t sound good.

The two of them then head towards the back of the area and enter a chamber with some kind of reactor located in the center with railing surrounding it. The Vigilante takes one more step forward, stepping on some glass fragments in the process. They both look up at the reactor in the middle.

Vigilante: So this must be the source of the Second Incident.

Kate: Some kind of reactor?

Vigilante, looking around: There are cables connected to it, spreading out throughout the facility. If my Nanogenes were used to copy the mutating effects then this reactor is the energy source.

Kate: But it’s not that simple. I saw notes about Nanogenes. They’re machines, right?

Vigilante: Small machines in the blood. Reeves took a sample of mine which means he took some Nanogenes with him also. But yeah, that sample isn’t enough. The reactor must have some kind of effect on Nanogenes.

Kate: So that’s how he mutates people?

Vigilante: If he using the reactor to change Nanogenes to be like mine… then he must be affecting all the Nanogenes in the area. Nanogenes are in everything and can activate at anytime. With this, he can switch them on whenever he wants!

Kate: So why didn’t it mutate me? I don’t have powers, do I?

Vigilante: Reeves doesn’t understand what he’s dealing with. He’s not a scientist so there’s a good chance that it didn’t work out the way he wanted it to. But still, the reactor looks like it exploded. This could be bad…

Kate: So how?

Vigilante: There could be… what’s the word- ugh-

He holds his head as he thinks but his grip starts to tighten at an alarming rate.

Vigilante: Con… tamination.

He struggles with the delivery as well as his breathing afterwards. Kate steps over to support him but practically falls over onto the floor.

Kate: Ggk!

She looks up and holds her leg, which starts to physically cramp up with circular pulses rising to the surface, underneath her skin. She grits her teeth in pain as she clutches her leg. Drake drops down to a knee, holding his head and struggles to look up. The room starts to glare yellow with glowing particles floating through the air. Drake presses through the pain, pushing up on his leg as it also starts to twitch and distort. He then reaches over, grabbing Kate and lifting her up- carrying her in his arms. He then struggles to stand but continues pushing through the pain, past the dense yellow air and the additional buzzing around him. He then yells out, moving just a bit faster as his face starts to pulsate and break out too. He then collapses through an open doorway and drops into a hallway. Kate groans and lifts her head over to the Vigilante who remains on the floor, not moving.

Kate: Drake. Drake? Come on, please- say something.

He remains silent. Kate moves her leg but looks over, seeing the bumps fade away and her skin return to normal. She touches her leg for a moment but looks over at the open doorway. She then closes the door, struggling to push the heavy door shut then turns a wheel to seal it closed. She looks down at the floor, still holding the wheel- catching her breath. But it’s another sort of breathing that catches her attention as she raises her head. She then turns and looks down, seeing the Vigilante move ever so slightly… breathing again.

Kate: Drake…

She sighs in relief but glances off to the side.

Kate: It looked like that stuff was hurting you more than me. Probably because you’re a Mutant. You have more Nanogenes than me, right?

Drake remains silent, his body still breathing slowly.

Kate: Then you could’ve just left me there. I’ve been nothing but an inconvenience. We haven’t even spoken in so long so why- why did you let yourself get to this state for me?

Vigilante: Do you think… that not talking to me makes me care for you any less?

Kate gasps in surprise and turns to the Vigilante to see him still laying on the floor, lifting his head up only a little bit.

Vigilante: I needed support… I can see that now. But you do too. You’re… important to me. You always were and you always will be. I told you those memories with John… are close to me. But the ones I have about you, Kate… The ones I have with you...

He lifts his head, showing that the goggles had come off. He looks ahead at her with a slight grimace as he struggles slightly to look at her.

Drake: I can’t live without those. You’re special to me...

Kate tears up but looks off to the side.

Kate: ...Come on. We should look for the others before they find us like this.

Kate walks over to Drake and kneels down besides him. She wraps an arm around his back and helps to lift him to his feet. As she rises, she stops for a moment. Then lowers down and picks up the safety goggles on the floor before rising up fully. The two then walk off, away from the reactor room. As the two walk off down the hall, Drake turns his head to Kate who looks ahead, her eyes looking heavier than before. Drake keeps on looking, an earnest look in his eyes. They then come up to a wall at a sort of intersection in the hall. She leans Drake against the wall and catches her breath.

Kate: You alright?

Drake: (nods) Better now.

Kate: Good. And here- (in a snarky manner) before you complain about them missing again.

Drake takes the goggles in his hand and looks down at them. Kate looks down at his hands and glances off to the side as he starts to put them over his head.

Kate: And Drake…

Drake: Yeah?

Kate: ...Thank you.

She looks up and sees the Vigilante standing before her. He nods and starts to walk off on his own, just nearly collapsing again.

Vigilante: Ggh!

Elias walks into the hall then turns his head, noticing the fallen Vigilante with Kate helping him up again. He then rushes over and helps him to his feet.

Elias: The heck? You alright, man? Come on…

He carries the Vigilante with his arm wrapped around his shoulder. The three of them, with Kate helping to keep him up as well, move down the hall towards a more open area.

Elias: What were you two even doing back there? ‘Cause you sure did a number on him.

Kate: Just shut up and carry.

The three of them then approach some kind of bolted door that Lester is examining. He turns to see the three of them approaching and stands hesitantly.

Lester: What’s going on? Something serious? ...You’re in pain.

Kate: We just ran into some trouble. Apparently, there’s a leaky reactor in the back room.

Elias: And you just waltzed right in?

Kate: I’m an investigative reporter. It’s in the name, alright?

Vigilante: What did you find?

Elias: Eh, some kind of door. We think it might be a way out of here. Figured I’d get you since you might be able to crack it open with your powers.

Lester: Looks like an access way but it’s on some kind of lock down.

Elias: Yeah, you should do your touching thing and feel up the door. Get us out of here.

The Vigilante looks over the door- it’s bolted down.

Vigilante: Ngh… I can’t hack into this.

Elias: What?!

Vigilante: The machinery is too covered. I need a more exposed area to work with.

Lester: My dad was a locksmith. He helped install specialized doors into big companies like these. I think you’ll need to deactivate the lock down on the door and have a separate individual access the wiring on the access panel once it becomes visible. But that’s as far as my knowledge goes, I’m pretty sure it moves into circuitry territory.

Elias: I… might know a few things about rewiring.

Kate: I’m not even going to ask.

Elias: Good!

Kate looks around and sees an exposed panel.

Kate, pointing: Over there. Looks like you might be able to get somewhere with that.

Vigilante: I’m still weak from the reactor but…

He glances back, seeing a bench behind him. He then looks up at the panel. He takes a step back and turns to run towards the bench. He runs up, climbs the bench and kicks off from the wall behind it- pushing himself over to the wall across where the panel lies. He then strikes the panel, punching a hole in it. He grunts in pain for a brief moment and pushes past it, reaching inside. His arm being in the shaft keeps him suspended in the air as he continues reaching in. His hand then crawls over to some machinery where he feels it for a second. He turns back to the others down below, quickly.

Vigilante: I’ve got the area. I’m about to hack the lock down and deactivate it. Get ready!

The Vigilante starts to hack into the machinery he’s touching and- soon enough- the lock down gets affected and deactivates, sliding back into the walls to expose the closed off access way behind it. Lester then feels the side of the door, holding his head with his other hand. He then finds a part that slides off, revealing some exposed wiring. Elias then squats and reaches inside, giving Lester little time to move out of the way.

Elias, messing with the wires: Alright, it was red to red and blue to blue, right?

Lester: You’re asking me?

Elias, messing with the wires: I was… talking to myself.

Lester: Oh.

Elias, rewiring the circuits: And…

With a short zap from the panel, the doors fly open, revealing a stairwell leading to the upper levels. Lester looks instead, a huge grin on his face while Elias leans back to look inside.

Elias: Presto.

Kate walks over to the access way while the Vigilante drops down, holding his arm. The four of them then stand before the doorway and look up at the stairs.

Lester: So this is it then. Our chance to get out of here.

Elias: Looks like it.

Kate: Well, it looks like this is it. What we’ve been moving towards.

Vigilante: Yeah. It is.

The Vigilante moves on, starting up the stairs. Kate follows after with the others coming along as well. The scene then cuts over to the upper level which has been destroyed from the blast, however there is an opening in which the stairs lead. Some exposed areas of the walls show the outside world, beyond the facility.

The Vigilante emerges from the stairwell, looking around the burnt and devastated area. Kate soon joins him on the surface.

Kate: Look, the outside. This is our chance to get out of here.

Vigilante is silent as he looks out ahead.

Kate: What’s wrong? We can get these people out of here, away from danger.

Vigilante: But Reeves is still out there with his Mutant army.

He turns to Kate.

Vigilante: I have to finish this.

Kate: Don’t you think this is more important? I mean, you were the one who blocked them off from us earlier.

Vigilante: I just… needed some time. But now I’m ready.

Kate: You’re hurt.

Vigilante: I can handle it.

Kate: And what about us then? What about me?

Vigilante: This isn’t always about you, Kate!

Kate: ...I see. So this isn’t about John then. It’s about me.

Vigilante: That’s not what I meant…

Kate: Then what aren’t you telling me?

Vigilante: ...You can take them with you. But I’m staying behind. I need to finish this… I need to finish him.

The Vigilante steps ahead but Kate grabs his arm.

Kate: You’re trying to kill him… aren’t you?

Vigilante: ...I- gah… I’m doing what needs to be done, Kate.

Kate ...Are you? Is this what it’s come down to?

Vigilante: What I’m going to do is necessary. If I don’t finish him then he’ll go on and ruin the city. I can’t let that happen.

Kate: And I can’t let you become something you’re not.

Vigilante: This is who I am. I just didn’t notice until now.

Kate: You keep saying finish and end but never kill or murder. I think you’re trying to be something you’re not. Because I know you’re no killer. But I guess I lost the right to give you advice on this. It’s really up to you to ask yourself… is this really something you can do. Take someone’s life?

He looks out at her before glancing down at the ground. Elias and Lester watch from the stairwell but turn to look out at something off to the side.

Voice: Well, well, well. Isn’t this a surprise?

The Vigilante turns and Kate looks up to see Reeves and his followers emerge from the ruins of the facility across from them.

Reeves: It seems we weren’t the only ones to look for a way out of this mess.

Vigilante: Reeves!

Reeves: Ah, ah, ah. I know you want to fight me. But I come with an offering. I only wish you hear me out before things get… messier.

Vigilante: You have nothing to offer me!

Reeves: Well, maybe not you, Vigilante. Or even your female friend over there. But I do believe you have two assets of mine with you. I only offer them what they want most in this world. Power.

Vigilante: Stop this…

Reeves: They volunteered for this program. It only makes sense that they rejoin with me.

Kate: Except you abducted Lester. He didn’t have a choice!

Reeves: Well, there were some exceptions that had to be made. There were some tests that needed to be done and, well, there is a concept known as trial and error. Did you really think there were only six test subjects?

Vigilante growls under his breath.

Elias: So you really were just experimenting on us…

Reeves: Come on, now, Elias. Look at the bright side. You and Lester have powers now. You are enhanced and more powerful than you ever were before. Join with me like you were meant to and together we can put those powers to good use by reshaping society and rebuilding the city.

Elias: That is what we agreed on…

Kate: You’re really going to fall for his tricks?

Elias: He’s not tricking me. He gave me power. Why… shouldn’t I believe him?

Vigilante: Forget it, Kate. He doesn’t see the harm that Reeves can cause.

Reeves: Or perhaps you just don’t see the good I can do with a group of Mutants of my own design, Vigilante. Maybe you’re scared of what true power is.

Vigilante: I’ve seen the way you work, Reeves. If you keep this up, only more people will get hurt.

Reeves: People who get in our way. People like yourself. With power like this, we’re unstoppable.

Lester: Unstoppable, huh?

Kate: Hm?

Lester: Will it really make me unstoppable?

Reeves: Yes, you already have great power. Under my leadership, you will never be wronged again.

Kate: Lester, what are you doing?

Lester: I never signed up for this. But now that I have these powers I can be someone.

Vigilante: Those powers don’t define who you are.

Lester: Why not? You’re the Vigilante. You can do all sorts of things. And now it’s my turn to be like you… better than you! (laughs)

The Vigilante looks at him, mouth a gap slightly but a voice catches his attention again.

Reeves: It seems they’ve made their choice. Now how about you, Vigilante? Will you join me and the Society?

The Vigilante looks over, seeing Elias and Lester move over to Reeves’ side and his followers jumping down from the platform they were on to get closer to him. He then looks up at Reeves with a snarl on his face.

Vigilante: Never.

Reeves: Tch. A shame. I do hate wasting resources.

He looks off to the side and glances down at Veronica.

Reeves: Kill away.

Veronica: With pleasure, Mr. Reeves.

She then turns ahead and looks at the Vigilante, firing off a wave of electric energy from her hands. The Vigilante then raises his arm, forming the Stone Slicer and cutting right through the energy. The big brutish figure then charges for him from the side but the Vigilante redirects the energy back at him, keeping him at bay. Veronica then stops and charges ahead. The Vigilante reverts his arm back to normal and forms the Neuro-Web, firing at Veronica. She slides against the floor, dodging the webbing which wounds up wrapping around the one with the bulging eye and open mouth. He then struggles against the webbing until his uniform tears, revealing a large mouth opening across his entire torso with tongues tearing at the webbing. Veronica then engages in hand-to-hand combat with the Vigilante, delivering swift strikes and kicks that he easily dodges. However, the Vigilante glances back- seeing the short freckled woman coming up behind him. He then grabs Veronica by the shoulders and tosses her at the woman behind him, causing the two to collapse into each other. The Vigilante stands ready, seeing six of them around him.

Veronica, getting up: You can not win this, Vigilante. You are outnumbered.

Vigilante: I will never stop fighting.

Veronica: You will. When you are dead. Heather?

Short Woman: You got it.

Heather then stretches her arms out towards the Vigilante who forms his Sonar Scales. He raises a scale before him, using vibrational frequencies. Her bandage-like limbs wrap around the scale pulling at it but the frequencies remain strong, keeping it at just about the same place. The Vigilante glances back, seeing the mouth-torso man running up behind him, stretching out his extended tongues from his chest. The Vigilante raises his other arm and raises another scale to block the tongues coming from that direction. They also wrap around the scale, attempting to pull it away from him. The big brutish one attempts to ram the Vigilante from behind. He struggles to move as his scales are being pulled in different directions. The Mutant then collides against his back, pushing him down to the ground before him. Veronica strikes him again with another electric-based attack, actually electrocuting him.

Vigilante: GAAHH!

The attack continues as the Vigilante grips the sides of his head, blood running down his nose. Veronica looks past him and sees Lester raise his hand, some kind of blue aura warping around him.

Elias: You’re going to kill him.

Lester: That’s what we’re supposed to do! This is how he’ll know how powerful I am! THEY’LL ALL SEE!

The aura starts to intensify as he levitates slightly, the force starting to crush the Vigilante also intensifies and spreads over to Veronica who drops down to her knees. She holds her head as well.

Veronica, struggling to speak: You gah… fool.

Heather: Hey! You’re hurting her!

Lester: They’ll all see… They’ll all see… They’ll all see!

Elias: What do we- I don’t know what-

Reeves: (scoff) I knew this would happen. Nothing but another reject. Mr. Hickman, if you be so kind as to relieve Mr. Imparden.

The big brutish man, apparently Hickman, approaches Lester from behind and grabs him by the neck. His grip then strengthens around Lester’s throat. Elias watches, unable to move.

Elias: W-Wait… we don’t have to-

Before he can finish his sentence, a snap is heard. Elias’ eyes widen and a body soon hits the floor. Hickman grunts.

Reeves: Very well, Mr. Hickman.

Veronica then coughs and gets back up to feet, holding the side of her head. Heather goes over to her but Veronica holds up a hand and Heather takes a step back.

Veronica: That reckless fool… Thank you, Micheal. Now we can finish this hooded excuse for a Vigilante once and for all.

Elias’ hand shakes as Veronica takes her steps towards the Vigilante.

Kate: No, you can’t!

Veronica: Shut her up!

Micheal approaches her, his footsteps stomping hard against the floor. Kate takes steps away from the towering man. Elias’ hand continues shaking.

Vigilante: Don’t you touch her…

Veronica: You have no right to say anything. You are about to die after all.

Vigilante: Reeves…

Reeves: Heh. I’m here, Vigilante.

Vigilante: This plan… you don’t care about this city.

Reeves: No. I don’t. I hate this city. I’m not even from here. But I was lead here by you and the Xyrions. I could’ve had it all but you took it away from me. And now I have a chance to finish what we started.

Vigilante: You’re going to destroy the city…

Reeves: No. I’m going to take over the city. Your city. I don’t care how many people get hurt or building fall and tumble. In the end, the only thing that matters is my will- not yours and certainly not theirs.

Elias’ hand then stops shaking and a gasp escapes from his mouth. His hand then clunches into a fist and the scars on his hands start to tear open ever so slightly with a glow beneath the cracks. Micheal then raises his hand as if to smack Kate. She raises her arms up as if to block the attack to come. Veronica raises her hands, sparks coming off of her fingertips. Elias then shakes for a moment.

Elias: I see it now. The pain you all cause.

Veronica: Huh?

Elias: I thought I was doing the right thing here… getting power, fighting for a cause, turning my life around. But all I see is pain and suffering that’ll move on to the city I live in.

Reeves: What are you saying, boy?

Elias: What I’m saying is… I might not like the Vigilante but he cares for the city. And you don’t!

Reeves: Choose your next words carefully. They may be your last.

Elias: I’m not one of your rejects, Reeves! And I won’t let you ruin my city!

Elias runs up and clenches his fist harder as he charges for Micheal.

Elias: Now let go of her!

His fist collides with Micheal’s back and nothing happens. Elias grunts and looks at his fist against his back.

Elias: W-What?

He then looks up, seeing a backhand coming right for him. He braces himself and is smacked across the room- close to the Vigilante and Veronica.

Veronica: You fool. You could’ve had anything you wanted.

Elias: Yeah… but it just didn’t feel right.

Veronica: Well, don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll feel alright when you’re dead.

Veronica prepares to zap Elias but the Vigilante reaches up to grab her arms. They struggle for bit while Elias manages to get to his feet. However, she’s still capable of firing the wave of energy at Elias, which hits him square in the chest.

Vigilante: No!

The Vigilante reaches out but stops, drawing his hand back slowly. Veronica rises to her feet slowly as well, looking ahead in surprise. Before them, Elias stands with the scars on his arms and face glowing bright with energy. He then opens his eyes which burn with a gleaming green color.

Veronica: So that’s your power…

Elias: Yeah… and you just about pissed me off, lady!

Veronica: (scoff) Micheal, finish him off!

Micheal charges for Elias, readying another backhand to smack him. Elias then clunches his fist and swings his arm out- hitting him square in the stomach. The shockwave ripples throughout his chest and a pulse of energy sparks from the impact- sending all that power in Elias’ body into the punch on Micheal. It was enough of a force to throw Micheal back into a pile of debris in the corner of the room. Elias’ body sizzles for a moment and he drops down to a knee, catching his breath. He also holds his arm which appears somewhat burnt.

Reeves: So, this is the way you show your gratitude, Mr. Hernandez.

Elias: ...I’m sorry. But I had to do what I thought was right.

Reeves: Betraying me is not the right thing. I’ll tell you that much. You made a grave mistake this day, Mr. Hernandez. And I have to say, I genuinely surprised by this sudden turn of events. I had so much planned for you and you could have gotten your wish with the power you’ve received. But now… now you’ve made enemies with R-Corp and, most importantly, me. The Vigilante is too weak to save you and it looks like you don’t even know how to control your power yet.

Elias tries to get up but falls back down, clutching his arm in pain.

Reeves: Pathetic. Dispose of them. All of them.

Veronica: Of course. It will be done!

Elias: No!

The roof breaks down with some debris falling from above, crashing onto the floor. Veronica looks up.

Veronica: What?!

Reeves: Grgh. It’s them…

All of a sudden, Jake flies in through the hole in the roof, hovering in the air. Fionna uses her flames to rise up and drop down through the hole. Leviathan leaps in and stands directly next to the both of them. Danny super speeds inside running upside the wall, before running alongside them.

Speedster: Looks like we got here in the nic of time.

Leviathan: Reeves… I suggest you give up now.

Jake: It’s over, man. You’re outnumbered.

Reeves: So it seems… and while I don’t doubt the strength of my subjects, there is a time and a place to conduct our business.

Leviathan: That’s right here. Right now, Reeves.

Reeves: Heh. Sorry but I have another appointment to attend to.

Fionna: You can’t get away.

Reeves: Oh? I respectfully disagree.

Reeves then reaches into his coat, retrieving a small detonator in his hand. The Helpers look surprised.

Speedster: Is that what I think it is?

Vigilante: ...A detonator. Yeah.

Reeves: I told you this before, Vigilante. This place… it can always be rebuilt. I’m not one to waste resources but… well, it won’t be a waste if it helps bury you all in the rubble… among other things.

Vigilante: No. I won’t let you get away!

The Vigilante stubbles to his feet but can hardly stand.

Reeves: It looks like you’re in no position to argue.

Speedster glances over at Jake but he shakes his head subtly.

Reeves: We’re leaving. Come.

Reeves starts to head off with his test subjects following after him. Veronica turns to the Vigilante and squints with a grunt.

Veronica: We’ll meet again, Vigilante. By then, you’ll meet your end.

Vigilante: We’ll see about that.

Fionna: We’re not just going to let them get away, right?

Jake: Get Kate and the other one. Speedster, do it.

Speedster nods then speeds off to the side. Fionna gives a signal to Leviathan who comes over. Reeves then turns back, holding the detonator before him.

Reeves: This isn’t some kind of a deal, by the way. I will walk away from this and you’ll be the ones who won’t.

Speedster grabs the detonator and speeds back to where he was.

Speedster: I’m sorry, what were you saying?

Jake: There’s no getting out of this.

Reeves: On the contrary, did you really think I’d be so dim as to actually use that prop?

Leviathan: ...No.

Reeves: Yes, Leviathan. I’m a developer of advanced technologies and products for this country. Of course, I always save the best stuff for myself.

Reeves pulls up his sleeve, revealing an expensive and advanced-looking watch. He then rotates the dial. The scene then shows an explosive primed underneath the concrete which- now triggered- explodes. The explosion connects with the other creating some kind of chain-reaction of explosions underneath the surface of the ground. The massive flames then rush through the lower levels, bringing a wake of devastation to the halls. Back on the surface, the ground starts to crack and shake with flames rising up from below. Reeves using this opportunity to almost casually leave the area with his test subjects following after him all while the Helpers react to the explosive situation around them as the facility start to cave in and collapse once again.

Jake: TAKE COVER NOW!

Leviathan covers Kate with his back turned to the fire. Fionna turns into her fiery form and grows in scale as she covers the Vigilante and Elias from the coming flames. All while Jake forms an energy shield around himself and Speedster. The flames then consume them and the facility explodes completely with debris flying off in different directions and fire remaining in its place. A moment then resides where nothing is seen before the scene fades back to the facility- where the aftermath of the detonation is seen. Debris everywhere with barely anything left but wreckage and destroyed equipment. Some rubble can be seen moving among the rest as an energy barrier rises up from beneath the debris. Jake then releases the energy barrier and Speedster drops down onto the wreckage below while Jake remains, hovering in the air. They look around the area.

Speedster: Guys?! Hello!

Jake: Is everyone alright?

Some more debris can be seen shifting. Jake flies over and uses his device to conjure up some energy force to move the debris out of the way. Leviathan then rises up- his armor scrapped and with burn marks against it. He moves out of the way, giving Kate some room to stand. Speedster speeds on over and helps Kate to her feet, helping out of the debris. Leviathan tosses the remaining debris to the side and catches his breath.

Jake: How are you holding up?

Leviathan: (huff) Well, I’m not flame-proof but I’m still kicking. Where’s Fionna?

Speedster: Guys, I think I got something!

Jake and Leviathan head over and start to lift the debris out of the way. Fionna remains in her fiery form but reverts back, somewhat tired. Leviathan moves the rest of the rubble while Jake helps her to her feet. Before them, the Vigilante lays on the ground, somewhat awake, while Elias appears to be unconscious.

Jake: You’re good. You’re alright.

Fionna: I thought I’d be able to withstand the heat from the explosion but… I guess I didn’t think about the rubble crashing down on me.

Fionna holds her head while Jake glances over at Speedster and Leviathan who are helping the Vigilante and Elias out of the rubble. A light then shines down on them above, causing them to look up at the dark sky as the Jumpjet flies overhead.

Leviathan: Perfect timing.

Speedster: Yeah…

Jake: Alright, let’s get the wounded onboard.

He turns to Kate, who looks off to the side- as if lost in thought.

Jake: That means you too Kate.

Kate then looks over at Jake then glances down at the ground before giving a slight nod. Jake looks at her for a moment before turning off to the side, helping to move Fionna out of the area. The Jumpjet then lands close by, with the back bay opening. Adam then steps into the doorway and leans on the side of the ship- watching as the Helpers head over to the vehicle. Jake enters first with Fionna’s arm around his shoulder. Leviathan then moves in, carrying Elias in his arms followed by Kate, holding onto the sides of her arms. She glances up, seeing Adam who looks at her as she enters. She then looks away as she enters the Jumpjet. Adam looks off to the side, without any words but looks up again when Speedster approaches with the Vigilante.

Adam: So you guys found him then.

Speedster: Yeah. We’re bringing him home.

They both then enter the Jumpjet with Adam nodding to himself at the doorway. Speedster has the Vigilante rest on one of the benches while Jake walks to the back from the cockpit.

Jake: I’m gonna stay behind, look around- see if I can find anything that’ll help us track down Reeves. Adam, you think you can take them back to HQ?

Adam: I’m on it.

Fionna: I can stay with you.

Jake: No. You need to rest. Besides, you won’t be the only one.

Fionna looks ahead, seeing a barely conscious Vigilante across from her.

Fionna: Right…

Speedster: I’m not wounded. I’ll stay with you.

Jake pats him on the shoulder and nods.

Jake: Alright. We’ll get a lot covered between my flight and your speed. We’ll meet the rest of you back in a couple of hours or so.

Jake and Speedster step out of the Jumpjet with Adam soon closing the door behind them. Adam then walks over to the cockpit while view focuses on the Vigilante. The engine could soon be heard starting off and, with the vehicle in motion, the scene begins to blur as the Vigilante falls unconscious. The scene is now pitch black, filled with darkness as well as silence. The silence continues on a moment longer before the sound of tides rippling can be heard. The scene then fades back to the ocean where a Young Drake can be seen on the wooden boat, drifting against the water. This Drake is paler than before with dry lips and heavy bags under his eyes. His clothes are also more torn and stained. He appears to be asleep but stirs awake by the rocking of the boat. He then turns his head, peeking over the edge of the boat and sees something that causes him to lean in more, for a better view. In the distance, a landscape is seen with a city on the horizon. The young Drake’s eyes widen as he grips the sides of the boat, looking ahead. A breath escapes from him… almost like a gasp of surprise. The scene then cuts directly back to the present day Drake where his open dart open and he rises up from a bed, gasping for air. He sits there in the bed, catching his breath. He then looks around at the bed then off to the side, seeing a dresser at the side. He then turns to the front, seeing a door before him. His gaze then returns to bed- more so, he looks down- contemplating.

Voice: Looks like you’ve finally you a proper bedroom.

Drake turns his head and sees John sitting in a chair beside him.

John: I’m happy for you.

Drake: ...You’re not really here, are you? The Nanogenes back at the facility… they were corrupting mine, making me… see things.

John: ...Yeah. I’m not the John you know. I’m just a vision of the one in your mind.

Drake: I don’t… understand.

John: I told you before. You will… in time. There’s so much that you don’t know but I think the answers will come soon enough.

Drake: If you’re in my head then tell me what I forgot before, all those years ago.

John: I can’t. It doesn’t work that way. I’m just here to help you with your problems here and now. You’re having a bit of a crisis, my friend.

Drake: I don’t know what to do… I want to keep your promise and save this city. But I keep getting… reminded of my past. Of what I did. Is that… who I’m supposed to be? A killer?

John: I told you. I’m here to help with your problems here and now. Those memories you’re facing, that’s in the past. You can’t let it hold you back. You need to live your life while you still have the chance. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on the things you really wanted to do… John Reed died sacrificing himself for the city. He gave his life so you can do something with yours. There’s more than one way to save the city, you know.

Drake: Yeah… I think I do. (sigh) But still, I don’t know if I’m ready to move on, John. I mean, you’re back even for a small moment. I just… it’s not enough. I need more time.

John: Remember what you said to Kate… back in those lower levels. You told her that the memories we had together are important to you… that they’ll always be with you. That’s all I am, Drake. A memory. There’s a chance we might not talk again but I will always be here. ‘Cause I’m with you. No matter what.

He says that last part with a soft smile on his face. The sound of the door opening is then heard. Drake turns his head to the door and sees it open with someone stepping inside. He then turns his head back to the chair, only to see that John is no longer there; that the vision has faded. His head then lowers as well as his gaze whilst the sound of footsteps approach him. A figure then stands before him and clears their throat. Drake then looks up, seeing Fionna- holding a tray of food, specifically some eggs with toast and water.

Fionna: Hey…

Drake: Hey.

Fionna: So, you’re awake. You were out for a while now.

Drake: Really? ...It didn’t feel that way to me.

Fionna: I think that’s just what happens when you sleep, Drake.

Drake: Yeah… I guess so. How are you feeling?

Fionna: Bruised but I’m fine. I feel like I should be asking you that, you had to rougher than me- all on your own in that facility.

Drake: I wasn’t alone.

Fionna: Hm?

Drake: I uh… (pause) I had Kate.

Fionna: I guess so. And that other guy who signed up to become a Mutant.

Drake: You heard.

Fionna: Yeah. Kate was awake, she explained what happened down there.

Drake: And Elias?

Fionna: Still unconscious. We’re also fixing him up. He got hurt pretty bad down there.

Drake: I feel like this is my fault. Reeves got away and you and everyone else got hurt.

Fionna: Look, you going in by yourself may have been pretty dumb but nobody here is blaming you except yourself. We can stop him… together.

Drake: Fionna. Why are you still on this team?

Fionna, setting the tray down on the bed: You mean, why didn’t I leave while I can like you did?

Drake: I just… need to know.

She sighs and takes a seat on the edge of the bed, looking downwards.

Fionna: I lost pretty much everything that day, Drake. My home, my friends… Mother. All I wanted to do was protect them but, by focusing on the Mutants that got taken away, I lost the ones I already had with me. Mother said I needed to find somewhere to belong, a people that I can call my family. I don’t know if we’re that connected yet but this is where I belong. Helping people and making a difference. It’s what I’ve been doing but… I can keep doing it in a better way, a different way. (turning to Drake) That’s why I stayed behind.

Drake: ...I think I understand now.

They’re both silent for a moment while Drake looks out and Fionna looks at him. She then gets up from the side of the bed, leaving the tray by Drake’s legs.

Fionna: You should rest. We can talk more about what happened later.

Fionna approaches the door.

Drake: I don’t know if I’m going to.

Fionna stops at the doorway.

Fionna: Come on, you need to rest.

Drake: No, I mean- I don’t know if I’m going to stay, Fionna.

Fionna sighs.

Fionna: Yeah, I had a feeling that’s what you were talking about.

She then turns to Drake from the doorway.

Fionna: I can’t stop you, Drake. Only you can decide what you want to do. But they’re good people and they mean well. You know this.

Drake: I think that’s why I can’t stay.

Fionna: Because you’re different.

Drake: Because I don’t know if I mean well.

Fionna: You do. Someone who didn’t wouldn’t question it. Believe me, I’ve seen the types. You care about the city, about your friends and just people in general. You showed me that.

Drake is silent.

Fionna: Like I said, it’s your choice. But can you at least promise me you’ll eat. I cooked that myself and I hate cooking. I usually burn everything.

Drake: Yeah… I will.

Fionna gives a small smile.

Fionna: Thanks.

She then turns to leave, her smile fading as she pauses in the doorway. She then steps out and the door closes behind her, leaving Drake alone in his room with the food on the tray before him. He sighs, with the view lingering on him for a moment more. The scene then cuts to the Helpers standing in the lobby, later on.

Adam: It’s going to take some time but I’ll see what I can do.

Jake: Thank you, Adam. You’re always a big help around here.

Adam nods then walks off to the side. Danny then enters the room, walking at a normal pace.

Jake: Hey, Danny! How’s the patient doing?

Danny: We’re still taking a look at him. We’re not exactly medics but we’re making progress. Where’s Emmett?

Jake: He left earlier. That reminds me, we should probably tell Drake about, y’know, what’s been happening in the city.

Danny: Do you think he’s ready to know? It’s a pretty big deal, after all.

Jake: I don’t know but he needs to know. It is his city, Danny.

Danny: Good point.

Fionna then walks in, carrying an empty tray. Jake turns and looks over at Fionna, approaching.

Jake: Oh, Fionna. How is he? ...Is he coming or-?

Fionna stops and looks ahead, silence filling the room for a moment. Jake’s eagerness then starts to diminish.

Fionna: He… left. Drake isn’t here anymore.

Jake: ...Oh.

Danny places a hand on his shoulder.

Danny: We tried, man.

Jake: Y-Yeah. I know. I know…

The view then shows the three of them standing in the main room. The scene then cuts to the inside of an apartment. There’s a knock at the door.

Voice: Just a second.

Kate makes her way over to the door- wearing only her red shirt. She opens the door and looks ahead, looking ahead.

Kate: ...Drake.

Drake stands there in his red shirt with an orange stripe across.

Drake: Hey, Kate.

Kate: ...I didn’t expect you to drop by. At least, not through the front.

Drake: I figured it… was a while. I didn’t want to scare you. Or your dad.

Kate: Heh. Well uh- he’s out at the moment, patrolling the streets. Just me.

Drake: I see.

Kate: ...So. What brings you by?

Drake: I just- didn’t want what happened at the facility to be our last talk. I know I said some things that… you didn’t agree with but I want to change.

Kate: Yeah, I’ve been thinking about that too. Look, I want things to go back to the way they were. I really do but- I just don’t think they can. We’re different people now.

Drake: You’re right. They won’t be the same. But that doesn’t mean we can’t figure something out, right?

Kate: ...What did you have in mind?

Drake: It sounds like we both don’t know what we want to do.

Kate: You could say that.

Drake: Maybe… we can help each other.

Kate scoffs then chuckles quietly to herself whilst looking off to the side. She then glances back at Drake, a smile on her face.

Kate: You’re serious, aren’t you?

Drake: ...Yes.

Kate: Okay, okay. I’ll think about it, alright? (chuckle) You’re ridiculous, you know that, right?

Drake: Is that a good thing?

Kate: Yeah. It’s a good start.

Drake: Good. I’m… glad we could talk again.

Kate: Me too, Drake.

Drake then turns to walk off.

Kate: Hey, Drake.

Drake stops and looks back at Kate, looking slightly confused.

Kate: What are you going to do now?

Drake looks as if to say something but stops, looks off as if thinking it over before turning back to Kate.

Drake: I’m going to the place I belong.

Kate then nods with a motion that shows understanding but her eyes show confusion as well. Drake then walks down the stairs before he leaves the view. Kate then moves back indoors, closing the door behind her. She then leans against the door and sighs, staying there for a moment longer. Footsteps are then heard creaking against the floorboards as a masculine figure approaches Kate from the back of the apartment.

Figure: Who was that?

Kate: Drake.

Figure: Here?

Kate: Yeah. Don’t worry, he doesn’t know.

Figure: But he wanted something. I can see it on your face.

Kate: He wants to change.

Figure: ...That’s good, isn’t it?

Kate: Yeah, but-

Figure: You want to change too, don’t you?

Kate: I don’t know. (sigh) I really don’t.

The figure comes closer, wrapping their arms around her. They appear to be shirtless as they comfort Kate comfortably. She holds their bandaged arm, leaning her head into their chest.

Figure: It’s alright.

The figure leans down, his head moving into view as Kate turns to look at him.

Emmett: We can figure it out. You and me.

The two then kiss for a moment. Then a moment longer until a vibration is heard from below.

Emmett: I have to get that.

Kate, wrapping her arms around his neck: In a moment.

They kiss once more but Emmett places his hands on her shoulders, pushing her off slightly.

Emmett: Kate-

Kate: (sigh) Yeah. Alright.

Emmett: Sorry but… it’s the team.

Emmett reaches into his pocket, pulling out a pager. He reads the message on the small screen then looks over at Kate, who has wandered off to the couch.

Emmett: It’s Jake. They’re calling a meeting about the test results.

Kate: Sounds important.

Emmett: Yeah. You can come if you want.

Kate: I’d be suspicious for us to show up together. People would know.

Emmett: It doesn’t have to be a secret.

Kate: I don’t know, Emmett. I’m just- I don’t know if I’m ready.

Emmett: It’s alright. I understand. We’ll take it at your pace.

Emmett moves over to the chair, fetching his dress shirt. He then places it on and starts buttoning up.

Emmett: You know, you and Drake have more in common than you think.

Kate looks over at Emmett but then glances back down.

Kate: Maybe that’s what I’m afraid of.

The scene then cuts once more to the city, where among the many buildings lies the MCA Outpost, residing on its own block.

Across the way, Drake can be seen crouching on the ledge on an adjacent building- watching the facility below. He then grunts to himself before standing up then jumping down. Inside, a few moments later, MCA Officers are seen racing down the hallways, armed. An alarm appears to be going off as well. They stop before an elevator and ready themselves by raising their weapons at the elevator doors. A man in a light grey suit with an open shirt collar walks up behind the soldiers, hands in his pocket.

Man: Status report?

MCA Officer: Unknown Breach. They appear to be making their way down to the lower levels of the Outpost, sir.

Man: Right. Stay maintained on the elevator. I don’t want any hesitation this time.

MCA Officer: Yes, sir.

The elevator then pings, arriving at the lower levels and the doors are soon forcefully opened from the inside. Soon enough, the Vigilante can be seen opening the doors, using his Crystal Claws form- much to the man’s surprise.

Man: Hold!

The Vigilante then finishes opening the doors and steps out of the elevator. The man steps ahead.

Man: Drake.

Drake: ...Director.

New Director: You caused us quite a bit of trouble. And now you’re breaking into an MCA Outpost. I take it you’re here to surrender.

Drake: I’m done running away from you. It’s not what May would have wanted.

New Director: No. I shouldn’t think it is. Well then, it’s a pleasure to have you back with us.

Drake: Yeah…

The scene cuts a moment ahead with the director and Drake walking besides one another.

New Director: There’ll be an orientation for you, of course. We can’t just have you strolling back in. Sorry but it’s protocol.

Drake: I understand.

New Director: We’ll start it right away, if you’re ready.

Drake: Actually, there’s something I need to do before then. And then I’ll go.

The new Director looks at Drake with a look.

New Director: It is clear in the protocol: all new or returning members of the MCA must come in for an orientation, right away.

Drake looks at him with a certain look by enlarging his eyes with stretching his mouth out.

New Director: ...Alright. One thing. Only because you look so polite.

The new Director turns, entering a room at the side- leaving Drake in the hall. He then turns to look ahead and rushes off. He then enters the laboratory there, passing by some MCA scientists on their way out. He then looks ahead- seeing a large grey container with a keypad connected. He then places his hand on the keyboard, hacking into it. Before him, the doors to the container then open- a light shining from the inside, reflecting back off of him. He looks inside for a moment longer, mouth a gap for brief time. His mouth then closes and he gives a slight nod.

Drake: You did it again, John. You helped me out one more time.

Drake then reaches inside, obscuring the view and sending it into darkness. The scene then fades over to the conference room where MCA Officers are gathered and the New Director is standing. He looks over at the officers then checks his watch.

New Director: Now this is uncalled for… I need two men. No. Three.

Three MCA Officers stand and follow the Director out into the hall, just as a couple of scientists pass by.

New Director: I need you three to fetch Drake and bring him back to the conference room for his orientation.

MCA Officer: Yes, sir.

MCA Scientist: Drake? I saw him go into the laboratory just a while ago.

The Director turns to the scientist, cocking an eyebrow.

New Director: He did what?!

The scene then cuts over to the city with the view settled at a rooftop, looking out over the cityscape. A boot then crashes down onto the rooftop with the figure it belongs to running down the rooftop before leaping off the edge. The figure then rolls against the next rooftop down before rolling back to their feet- continuing their sprint off to the next rooftop over. They jump up, kicking off from a roof ventilator and press against the side of a building before kicking up and grabbing onto the ledge before pulling themselves up. The figure then stands there on the ledge of the narrow platform, looking out over the city basked in the darkness of the night. But the sun soon starts to rise behind the figure, cementing that it’s morning. The rays of light pass over the figure as the view starts to rise vertically alongside the person in the dark suit of armor. Their legs have technical patterns etched into them with a plate covering the front. Their torso is plated with two dark slanted lines etched on the chest- forming a sort of “V” shape with technical patterns connecting the torso plating to the shoulder plating. A ring-shaped device is built into the suit around the collar with a hood woven with a dark metallic-like material hangs from the slit in the device. The view finally completes its ascend with the face of the figure being seen with advanced-technical goggles disclosing their eyes. As the sunrise finishes rising over the city, the Vigilante stands strong on the ledge- watching out in his new suit. The lens on the goggles then squint. He then runs up ahead, leaping off from the ledge and diving straight into the city. The wind breezes past him as his descent increases in speed. He then throws out his arm, forming the Acidic Thorns form and stretches it out as to dig into a rooftop corner. He then swings across through the city before rising back up into the air. He disengages from the rooftop and starts to swing from the next one. He continues this as he moves further into the city. The scene then cuts over to the interior of Helper Headquarters, where most of them are gathered. Emmett walks into the room, checking his bandages.

Emmett: Alright, I’m here. Did you hear back from Adam?

Jake: Yeah. It’s just like he thought. Reeves was using Nanogene research to complete his experiments. He was trying to mutate regular people into enhanced soldiers like those test subjects we ran into back at the facility.

Emmett: Kate mentioned that Reeves called them his Society.

Danny: Oh great. Reeves has his own team of super-powered Mutants. Just when I was starting to think this job was getting easy.

Jake: That’s only… one of the issues we’re dealing with. Apparently, the reactor that he built was the one responsible for the experiments. At least, that’s what Adam thinks. But since it went critical and overloaded, a wave of energy was spread out across the area. Energy, with the power of turning regular people into Mutants.

Fionna: You don’t mean-

Jake: Yeah. The city was hit by that energy wave when the reactor exploded. Everyone in the city was affected by the reactor. Now, we know that not everyone is dealing with the effects of the explosion but some people are. There are already filed reports about people with powers creating trouble and destroying property. It’s only a matter of time before things get out of hand. A whole bunch of people suddenly with super powers appearing in a whole city. It’s too much for them.

Danny: Can we even handle something like that? Jake: ...I don’t know. All I do know is that we have to help. Wherever we can because that’s what we do. We help those who can’t help themselves and a lot of people are going to need it right now.

Voice: Then you could use all the help you can get.

Jake turns his head and looks ahead, along with the rest of the Helpers there as the Vigilante steps into the room from the helipad area.

Emmett: Dr- ...Vigilante.

Vigilante: Emmett.

Emmett, smiling: It’s good to have you with us.

Vigilante: So, the city was affected by Reeves’ experiment then.

Danny: The MCA will no doubt have a field day with this one.

Vigilante: With their new Director, they might not hold back.

Fionna: Then we’ll step in.

Emmett: There’s only so much jurisdiction we have. We’re only allowed to operate as vigilantes because of May Harper’s demands… and Murphy Industries funding.

Jake: True. But we can still do what we can for them. Help them and give them a chance before they aren’t given one. Now that everyone is going to a friendly. No doubt, we’ll come across some new opponents so we’ll have to be ready for whatever this city throws at us.

Fionna: Don’t worry. We will.

Danny: Yeah, we’ll even be sure to tell the newbies th-

Emmett nudges Danny in the shoulder.

Danny: Ga- Ouch! What was that-

Emmett glares at Danny.

Danny: Oh. Opps. Did I say newbies, I meant- uh- something else entirely.

Drake: Newbies? As if new… people?

Jake: Well, we were short a member. But now that you’re back-

Drake looks off to the side, holding his arm. Jake’s smirk then fades.

Drake: I still don’t know if I want to come back or not.

Emmett: Well… how about being just a part-timer then.

Drake: Part… timer?

Emmett: You can work with the team and do your own thing as well.

Drake: I can do that?

Jake: I guess so. Well, how about it?

Drake looks over at Emmett.

Emmett: We’ll go at your pace, Drake.

Drake: Alright. I’m in. But what’s this about a new member?

Danny: Of course he decided to stick with that part.

Jake: It’s alright. He’s apart of the team. He has every right to know about her.

Drake: Her?

Voice: Yeah. Her.

Drake turns around, seeing Emma walking in.

Drake: ...Emma.

Emma: Hey. Drake: So that’s how they knew about the facility. You told them where I was going.

Emma: I couldn’t just sit back and don’t do anything. I had to help in some way. I didn’t want to go against you but it’s like I said before… you can’t stop me from helping.

Drake: No. I guess I can’t. Don’t worry about it. John wanted me to save this city but I think he would’ve been happy knowing his sister was doing the same.

Emma smiles, eyes tearful. She wipes her tears and just smiles at him.

Emma: Thank you.

He nods then turns to the Helpers standing before them.

Fionna: Welcome back.

Drake: It’s good to be back.

Credits

Major Events

 * Drake joins the Helpers once more, now as a part-timer
 * Emma joins the Helpers
 * Reeves creates a new Mutant Group known as the Society
 * The City has been affected by the Second Incident

Minor Events

 * Drake and Kate start to make amends
 * Drake’s memories are affected by Nanogene Corrosion
 * Kate and Emmett are dating now
 * Drake has a new suit, creating by John.

Characters

 * Drake
 * Kate
 * The Helpers
 * Fionna
 * Emmett
 * Danny
 * Jake
 * Adam
 * John Reed (Distorted Memory)
 * Emma Reed
 * Elias Hernandez (First Appearance)
 * MCA Officers
 * Citizens

Villains

 * Anton Reeves
 * The Society
 * Veronica Dorn (First Appearance)
 * Michael Hickman (First Appearance)
 * Heather Gruffurd (First Appearance)
 * Dylan Wittenberg (First Appearance)
 * Lester Inparden (First Appearance) (Deceased)

Forms Used

 * Fire Fists (x3)
 * Stone Slicer (x2)
 * Sonar Scales (x2)
 * Neuro-Web
 * Crystal Claws
 * Acidic Thorns

Allusions

 * John’s conversation with Drake in the reactor room included a couple of references.
 * One of John’s lines mentioned teaching Drake about friendship among other things but lying not being one of them which is why he’s kinda bad at it. This is a reference to a line said by Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War.
 * Another line was about how it’s a dangerous time for Drake and that he’ll be tempted by the dark side of his mind. This is a reference to a line said by Obi-Wan in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.
 * The New Director’s comment about Drake looking polite is an allusion towards the Polite Cat meme.

Trivia

 * This episode took some inspiration from the Young Justice episode, Fireworks.
 * The original ending focused on (re)introducing characters and setting up a team dynamic that would be the tone for the remainder of the season. However, it felt too simple to just explain everything in the last scene and too cheesy at that for one of the Writers. The ending was instead changed to fit the original vision and leave the unexplained concepts for the next episode.
 * This episode introduces Nanogene Corrosion, in which Nanogenes start to degrade, as well as Nanogene Contaminations, where corrupted Nanogenes effect beings with Nanogenes residing inside them- altering their physical state in a painful manner until it is too much for their body to bear.
 * There are plenty of callbacks to previous episodes including A Rainy Day and The Invasion Part 2.