Chapter One: Origins

3rd Person pov:

As the sky filled with smoke, the crackling of fire resonated in the air. A child, dressed in an oversized gray sweatshirt with the hood pulled up, barely covering their tanned face. A few strands of black hair peeked out from under the hood as they emerged from the chaos, thrown through the wall of the burning building. The child winced in pain, sat up, and struggled to assess the situation.

"Ah, my back!" they exclaimed, their voice laced with discomfort as a haze started to cover their tired gray eyes. Through the smoke, they could make out the silhouette of someone approaching.

???: So, I gotta ask, whose bright idea was it to send in training wheels when I called for a professional?

The kid smirked, despite the pain. "Wait, hold on. Are you telling me that you started a fire for attention? Geez, man, how desperate are you for a date?" The kid joked, trying to diffuse the tension. "But hey, I have to admit, it's a great idea. Where'd you get it from? How to Stockholm 101?"

The individual, engulfed in flames, grunted in frustration, charging up a ball of fire. The kid's joking demeanor faltered as the situation escalated.

"I'm gonna assume that it's too late to ask if you have Texas Pete on hand," the kid said, nervously chuckling. But his attempt to lighten the atmosphere was immediately interrupted as the pyromaniac released a massive beam of flames toward him.

*Record scratch*

"Yup, that's me, Jack Ramirez. No, not the desperate fire-slinging sociopath. I'm the thirteen-year-old kid who didn't bring anything to the family barbecue," I joked. "You're probably wondering how I ended up in this situation. Well, to answer that, we'll need to go back three days ago when this whole super-powered mess all started."

*3 Days Ago*

I stood in the overcrowded hallway of Grayson Middle School, surrounded by the buzzing energy of the Science Fair. Everyone was hustling and bustling, setting up their impressive projects, eager to show off their superpowers to their friends and the judges.

And there I was, with nothing to show.

As I watched my friends proudly displaying their abilities, a wave of inadequacy washed over me.

I was powerless in a world chalk full of superpowers, still searching for that one extraordinary ability. While my classmates could do incredible things like control fire, manipulate metal, or vanish from sight, I felt like an outsider, completely devoid of any supernatural talent.

But I refused to let it get me down. I had mastered the art of masking my true feelings with humor. Whenever someone asked about my powers, I would crack a joke or deliver a witty one-liner, deflecting attention away from my lack thereof. It was my defense mechanism, my shield against the disappointment and expectations of others, and I also happened to be really good at parkour. As I stand in the overcrowded hallway of Grayson Middle School, surrounded by the buzzing energy of the Science Fair, something catches my attention. Mark and his group of goons are cornering Max, their taunts echoing in the air. Without thinking, I rush forward.

I push one of the bullies away from Max, creating a brief moment of confusion. It's enough for him to slip away, disappearing into the crowd. But now, the gang of Dimwits' attention is focused solely on me.

They turn towards me with fury in their eyes, their laughter replaced by anger. They chase after me, their footsteps pounding against the tiled floor. I glance around, searching for an escape route.

I spot a set of lockers nearby, their metal surfaces gleaming. Without hesitation, I launch myself towards them, utilizing my parkour skills to scale the lockers effortlessly. The bullies scramble to follow, but I've already gained valuable distance.

As I reach the top of the lockers, I leap onto a nearby ledge, my nimble movements betraying the fear coursing through my veins. The bullies are momentarily halted by the gap between us. I take advantage of the respite to find my next path.

I spot a series of connected stairwells leading to different floors. With a surge of adrenaline, I descend the first set of stairs in a blur of motion. The bullies race to catch up, their shouts echoing behind me.

As I reach the next floor, I leap over obstacles, using desks and chairs as springboards. The school's environment becomes my sanctuary as I twist and turn, using every available surface to my advantage. The bullies struggle to keep up, their bulky frames hindering their movements.

A burst of triumph fills me as I reach the gymnasium. I maneuver through equipment, using the basketball hoop as a launching point. I swing from the gymnasium bars, twisting and flipping through the air with finesse.

The bullies are left behind, left to grapple with the realization that they cannot catch me. Their shouts grow distant as I make my escape, disappearing into the vastness of the school.

I let out a laugh, knowing that I've outsmarted them. "Sorry, fellas! Guess you couldn't keep up with the fastest jokester in town!" I shout back, winking at them as I disappear around a corner.

Now that I have some breathing room, I continue my daring escape through the winding hallways. My mind races, concocting spontaneous quips to lighten the tense atmosphere. "Hey, guys! Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!" I chuckle to myself, imagining their confused expressions behind me.

With each leap and dodge, I can't help but revel in the adrenaline coursing through my veins. "Did you guys hear about the mathematician who's afraid of negative numbers? He'll stop at nothing to avoid them!" I call out, relishing in the sound of my own laughter bouncing off the walls.

As I swiftly navigate the labyrinth of classrooms and corridors, one of the bullies manages to catch up, his heavy breaths filling the space between us. "Hey, Mark! Why don't you use that brute strength of yours for something productive, like counting to potato?" I tease, sidestepping his lunging grasp.

Dodging and weaving, I make my way towards the school's main entrance. Freedom is within sight, but the bullies are still hot on my trail. With all the gusto I can muster, I yell, "Why did the bicycle fall over? Because it was two-tired!" The laughter that follows lightens my step and propels me forward.

Finally, I burst through the doors, leaving the bullies behind in a cloud of dust and their bewildered expressions. Taking a moment to catch my breath, I can't help but let out one final quip. "Well, boys, I hate to run, but I'm late for comedy class!" I say, flashing them a mischievous grin before darting off into the distance, my laughter echoing behind me.

With the bullies left baffled and speechless, I make my escape from the school grounds. As I sprint through the neighborhood streets, my heart still pounding with adrenaline, I continue to crack jokes to keep myself entertained.

"Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts!" I giggle to myself as I maneuver through the rows of houses.

As I turn a corner, I spot a group of kids playing basketball in their driveway, a perfect opportunity for a quick distraction. I run up to them, still catching my breath, and join in on their game.

As I dribble the ball, I can't resist making a pun. "Hey, guys, why don't basketball players go on vacation? They'd just be taking too many 'travels'!" I say with a chuckle, as the children burst into laughter.

I pass the ball to one of the kids, who shoots and scores. The joyous cheers and laughter of the children fill the air, momentarily making me forget about the trouble I just escaped from.

But I know I can't stay for long. I thank the kids for letting me join their game and bid them farewell, promising to come back for another match soon. With a wave, I sprint off, resuming my escape.

As I make my way towards a nearby park, I continue to weave through crowds, utilizing my quick reflexes and agility to avoid any obstacles in my path with a smile spreading across my face.

Reaching the park, I find solace amidst the lush greenery. The tranquility allows my mind to settle, contemplating my next move. I know I need to find a safe place to hide before the bullies regroup and come after me again.

Suddenly, an idea strikes me. I recall a hidden treehouse nestled high in the branches of an ancient oak tree in the park. It's a secret spot my friends and I discovered years ago—a sanctuary where we would often retreat to share laughs and hang out.

I climb up the tree trunk with ease, my natural grace making it a breeze. Once inside the treehouse, I catch my breath, surrounded by memories of simpler times. The warmth of nostalgia takes over, and I can't help but let out a giggle.

I let the soothing atmosphere of the treehouse wash over me, the laughter that had fueled my escape beginning to subside. As I sit there, surrounded by the comforting embrace of the tree's branches, I reflect on the events that led me to this point.

Escaping danger with humor has become my greatest defense mechanism, a way to lighten the weight of the world and shift the situations around me. In a way, it is my unique power—although unconventional, it has saved my butt more times than I can count.

"Oh, Crap, it's getting dark. I need to get back home before Mom freaks out," I say to myself as I maneuver out of the treehouse and carefully make my way back down the tree. As I step onto the soft grass, I take a moment to appreciate the peace and serenity that surrounds me. The sun is beginning to set, casting a warm orange glow over the park.

I start making my way back home. As I walk through the quiet residential streets, I begin thinking of escape routes out of the school, knowing Mark and his goons are most likely going to have me at the top of their hitlist.

But deep down, I know that I can't run forever. Eventually, I'll have to face them head-on and find a way to put an end to their bullying once and for all. As I approach my house, a determination wells up within me. I won't let fear hold me back anymore.

Entering my home, I'm greeted by the familiar scent of my mom's cooking. The comforting aroma wraps around me like a warm blanket, momentarily easing the tension I've been carrying. I find my mom, apron-clad and stirring a pot on the stove.

"Hey, Mom," I greet her with a smile, trying to hide the exhaustion that lingers in my eyes.

She turns to face me, her eyes filled with concern. "Jack, are you okay? You look like you've been running a marathon."

I chuckle but quickly realize she's not entirely wrong. "Yeah, I just went for a little run after school," I reply nonchalantly, hoping to downplay the situation.

Mom raises an eyebrow, her maternal instincts kicking in. "A run, huh? You and your antics. Well, just remember to be careful out there, okay?"

"I promise, Mom," I assure her with a nod. "But hey, is dinner almost ready? I'm starving after all that running."

Mom smiles warmly and sets a plate of steaming pasta in front of me. "Dig in, my little marathon runner," she says with a playful wink.

As I dig in, I notice in the corner of my eye a picture of Dad. "Mom, can we talk about him?" Noticing where I'm looking, Mom's smile suddenly turns into a slight frown. "Jack, we've talked about this," she says. "No, you just shut down and then walk out of the room everytime I ask about him. Please, I just want to know who he was."

"I'm sorry but I can't," she says with tears in her eyes as she runs out of the kitchen.

After dinner, I retreat to my room, closing the door behind me. The events of the day replay in my mind, reminding me of the challenges I still need to overcome. I curl up in bed, my surrounded with movie posters and stacks of comic booksand with a sullen smile, I drift off to sleep

*The Next Day*

"Hey Powerless, we're not done yet!"

"And here comences the rematch of The Dimwits v.s World champion Jack Ramirez." I sigh under my breath as I steel my nerves.

Just as Mark and his goons are about to jump me Thankfully, Coach Thompson steps in to intervene, his imposing figure casting a shadow over the bullies. His voice booms with authority as he commands their attention.

"Alright, that's enough! Break it up, boys," Coach Thompson declares, his eyes flickering with determination. "You think you can just gang up on someone smaller than you? Not on my watch."

Mark and his cronies hesitate, their postures shifting uneasily under the weight of Coach Thompson's gaze. They exchange glances, unsure of how to respond to the unexpected interference.

But Coach Thompson doesn't stop there. With a firm yet compassionate tone, he addresses each member of the group individually, seeking to understand the root of their behavior.

"Mark, bullying won't get you what you want in life," Coach Thompson says, his voice firm but empathetic. "Why are you targeting Jack? Is there something deeper going on?"

Mark shifts on his feet, his façade of toughness momentarily crumbling. "I... I don't know. It's just... it's what we've always done," he mumbles, avoiding eye contact.

Coach Thompson's gaze softens, his voice laced with understanding. "It's never too late to change, Mark. We all make mistakes, but it's how we learn from them that defines us. You have the strength to do better."

"Alright, well me and the guys will take that into consideration thanks Coach." Mark hurriedly says as him and his goons run off but not without sending a glare my way.

Coach Thompson watches them go, concern in his eyes. He then turns back to me.

"You ok, Jack?" He asked. "Yeah, contrary to popular belief I'm okay," I reply, my voice filled with mixed emotions. "Thanks for stepping in, Coach, I thought I was doomed for a second there."

Coach Thompson smiles warmly. "Of course, Jack, well if I was you I'd hurry over to the gymnasium it's about time for the class trip to Argus Industries." He said as he walked off.

I feel a mix of relief and excitement at the mention of the class trip. It's a chance to get away from the usual school environment and maybe even learn something new. With a renewed sense of optimism, I quickly make my way to the gymnasium.

As I enter the gym, I find my classmates gathering near the entrance. I spot my friend Max, who gave me a friendly wave. I join him, eager to catch up and exchange stories from our eventful morning.

Max, always the serious one, begins discussing the Science Fair projects he saw earlier. "There were some really impressive displays, Jack. You should've seen it. One student had developed a device that could harness solar energy to power an entire city!"

I listen intently to Max's description, fascinated by his passion for science. "That's amazing. Who would've thought a simple science fair could lead to such groundbreaking discoveries?"

As we wait for our teacher to arrive, our excitement builds, and we chat animatedly about what we hope to see and learn at Tanaka Industries. The prospect of exploring a place dedicated to innovation and discovery sparks a sense of wonder within me.

Finally, our teacher arrives, and we line up to board the bus. As we settle into our seats and the bus pulls away, I can't help but feel gratitude towards Coach Thompson for his intervention earlier. His support has given me the chance to embark on this exciting adventure and put the bullying incident behind me, at least for now.

As we arrive at Argus Industries, the sheer grandeur of the facility takes my breath away. The sleek, modern architecture and state-of-the-art technology signal the limitless possibilities that lie within its walls.

Our tour guide leads us through the various departments and showcases the groundbreaking projects being developed. Each room we enter is filled with buzzing activity, scientists and engineers fully immersed in their work. It's a sight to behold, and my curiosity grows with every step.

As we make our way through the laboratories, we learn about advancements in robotics, medical research, alternative energy sources, and more. The possibilities are endless, and I can't help but let my imagination run wild.

"And, This is the power division." The tour guide explains as we walk into the lab, "This is where we research all there is to know about powers, as you all may know the dawn of human evolution has brought forth a new world abilities which started with the Golden Age of civilization, which then evolved to the Silver Age, which carried over to the Bronze Age, which brings us to now the Modern Age, with each passing generation powered abilities have evolved and so have our methods to study what once was considered the impossible, which has brought forth the four power archetypes anyone care to volunteer and tell us what they are?"

The room is filled with silence for a moment until I nervously raise my hand. The tour guide smiles and nods at me, encouraging me to speak up.

"The four power archetypes are Elemental Manipulation, Psychic Abilities, Physical Enhancements, and Energy Projection," I confidently answer.

"Correct!" the tour guide confirms, "These archetypes represent the different categories that power abilities can fall into. Throughout history, we've seen individuals with control over the elements like fire, air, water, and earth. Psychic abilities include telepathy, telekinesis, and mind control. Physical enhancements involve increased strength, speed, and durability. Lastly, energy projection encompasses abilities such as shooting beams of energy or creating force fields, or that was until today." The tour guide says with a smirk. "We at Argus Industries believe that there is a Fifth archetype which we like to call the Conduit archetype, The Conduit archetype from what our studies suggests is the only archetype that steps into the others."

Intrigued by the mention of a new archetype, I lean forward in anticipation, eager to learn more. The tour guide continues, explaining how the Conduit archetype is characterized by the ability to channel and manipulate multiple power types, crossing the boundaries of the traditional archetypes.

She goes on to explain that Conduits possess a unique fusion of abilities, allowing them to tap into different powers and use them in dynamic ways. They have the potential to harness the elements, exhibit psychic abilities, manifest physical enhancements, and project energy, all in one. The possibilities of the Conduit archetype are seemingly limitless.

As I listen to the tour guide's description, a spark of excitement ignites within me. The idea of a power that transcends the established boundaries of the archetypes sounds intriguing.

As we progress through the facility, the tour guide offers stops infront of some giant looking machine.

"And here at Argus Industries with this new discovery we've figured out what really makes powered abilities tick."

She gestures towards a massive device, its intricate design and pulsating energy captivating our attention. "This is the Particle Collider, we believe it will allow us to give powered abilities to those without" she explains.

"How does it work?" Max suddenly asks.

The tour guide smiles at Max's question, clearly pleased by his curiosity. "The Particle Collider works by manipulating and harnessing particles at the subatomic level," she begins to explain. "By accelerating these particles to incredibly high speeds and colliding them together, we can generate energy signatures that resonate with specific power archetypes."

She gestures towards a control panel next to the Particle Collider, displaying a variety of settings and options. "Through precise calibration and modulation, we can control which power archetype is activated within an individual. It's a painstaking process that requires extensive research and experimentation, but it holds immense potential for those who wish to acquire powered abilities."

Max raises his hand once again, this time with a look of determination on his face. "So, you're saying that with this technology, anyone could potentially become a Conduit, harnessing multiple powers?"

The tour guide nods. "Yes, that's one of the goals we're working towards. The ability to unlock the Conduit archetype and channel multiple powers is a revolutionary concept. It opens up new possibilities for scientific advancements, as well as practical applications in various fields such as medicine, disaster response, and defense."

The excitement in the room grows palpable as we begin to grasp the magnitude of what the Particle Collider could achieve. The tour guide concludes, "We're just scratching the surface of understanding and harnessing these powers. With continued research and development, the future of powered abilities holds endless potential."

As the tour continues, my mind is filled with wonder and curiosity. The advancements being made at Tanaka Industries are pushing the boundaries of what we once considered possible. The potential of the Particle Collider and the prospect of unlocking the Conduit archetype is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

suddenly a commotion outside catches our attention. Startled, we hear loud shouting and the sound of approaching footsteps.

Without warning, a group of armed men storm into the facility, causing panic to erupt among the staff and visitors. The tour guide, displaying remarkable composure, instructs us to take cover behind a nearby lab bench.

Amidst the chaos, I can see the armed men making their way towards the Particle Collider. Their intentions are unclear, but fear grips me as I realize the potential danger of tampering with such technology.

"Hey what do you think you're doing." The tour guide is interrupted as she is then knocked to the floor by one of the men who then proceed take aim at her.

"Hey, leave her alone!" I exclaim with zero hesitation as I throw my phone at the armed man.

The armed man is momentarily distracted, giving the tour guide an opportunity to roll away and seek cover. The atmosphere in the room becomes even more intense as everyone realizes the severity of the situation.

Without hesitation, the armed men refocus their attention on me, their eyes filled with hostility. I brace myself for whatever might come next, fully aware of the risks involved. But in this moment, the safety and well-being of everyone in the room take precedence over my own fears.

As my phone hits the armed man, it creates a momentary distraction, allowing me time to assess the situation. I quickly search for any possible means of defense within my immediate surroundings. My eyes land on a fire extinguisher hanging on the wall nearby a work bench.

Diving behind the workbench as bullets whiz by I mange to grab the fire extinguisher, I swiftly remove it from its bracket, feeling the cold metal in my hands. It may not be much, but it could potentially buy us some time and create a diversion.

With adrenaline coursing through my veins, I throw the fire extinguisher directly over the work bench and into the line of fire.

The fire extinguisher explodes upon impact, releasing a cloud of white smoke, obscuring the armed men's vision. I take advantage of the momentary confusion, and start trying to help get everyone out of the facility.

As the smoke fills the room, I use my voice to guide the frightened staff and visitors towards the emergency exits, urging them to stay low and move quickly. The chaos makes it challenging to maintain order, but I do my best to provide calm reassurance and keep everyone focused on their escape.

With the armed men disoriented and temporarily blinded by the smoke, our chances of escaping unnoticed improve. The Tour Guide leads the group towards the closest exit, utilizing her knowledge of the facility's layout to navigate through the chaos efficiently.

Together, we weave through the smoke-filled corridors, staying low and avoiding the armed men's line of sight. The sounds of panic and desperation echo through the air as we push forward, our hearts pounding with adrenaline.

Everything was going so well until I stepped on a clipboard that was on the ground.

The sudden clatter of the clipboard echoes through the corridor, causing all of us to freeze. Our hearts sink as we realize that our cover may have been compromised. The armed men's shouts grow louder as they zero in on our location.

Thinking quickly, the Tour Guide grabs the clipboard and hands it to me. "Make noise," she whispers urgently as she hurriedly writes something down on a post it note and hands the note to me. "Distract them while we make a run for it, on that note are the other three exit routes."

I nod, understanding the gravity of the situation. With the clipboard in hand, I start banging it against the walls, creating a cacophony of noise that echoes down the corridor. The sound reverberates through the facility, drawing the attention of the armed men towards me.

As their footsteps draw nearer, I continue to bang the clipboard, using it to create a rhythm that bounces off the walls as I head off in the opposite direction of the group.

With each step, my heart pounds in my chest, but I remain focused on my mission to provide a distraction all the while my improvised smoke dissipates. Turning a corner I quickly ran into a nearby office and hide behind a desk.

From my hiding spot, I can hear the armed men approaching. Their voices grow louder as they discuss their motives for targeting Argus Industries.

"I still can't believe this technology exists," one of the armed men says, his voice filled with excitement.

"Yeah, it's like something out of a sci-fi movie," the other replies. "But think about the possibilities. With this Particle Collider, we can create an army of Conduits. Imagine the power we would have."

"Exactly," the first man agrees. "No more limitations, no more relying on individual powers. We'll have a force to be reckoned with."

Their words send a chill down my spine. The thought of these armed men using the Particle Collider for their own gain is terrifying. I got to find a way to stop them.

I cautiously peek out from behind the desk, assessing the situation. The armed men are now in the room with the Particle Collider, inspecting the control panel and discussing their next move.

I spot a nearby ventilation shaft, and an idea begins to form in my mind. If I can crawl through the shaft and reach the control room undetected, I might be able to disrupt their plans and buy enough time for help to arrive.

With determination fueling my actions, I quietly make my way towards the ventilation shaft. The sound of muffled voices and the hum of machinery mask my movements as I manage to remove the vent cover and squeeze inside.

The tight space is uncomfortable, but I push through, crawling inch by inch towards my destination but, the next thing I know I was falling through the vent.

At the sound of the crash some of the armed men round the corner, their eyes lock onto me, and I can see the mix of anger and confusion on their faces.

"So, uh you guys come here often?" I joke nervously.

At which the armed men replied by raising their guns at me as I could do nothing but raise my hands in fear.

Just as I resign myself to my fate, a blur of motion catches my eye. A figure in a red costume streaks past the armed men, disarming them with incredible speed. In the blink of an eye, the figure incapacitates the armed men, rendering them powerless and helpless on the ground.

I can hardly believe my eyes as the figure approaches me, his face hidden behind a sleek red mask.

'Oh my god, it's Rush!' I think to myself.

Before I can even react Rush grabs me and runs me out of the facility.

Before I can even gather my thoughts, Rush is already zipping back into the facility, leaving me bewildered and trying to catch my breath.

I watch as Rush disappears inside, his incredible speed carrying him back to the unfinished task. I try to call out to him, to warn him about the armed men's intentions with the Particle Collider, but as the words form on my lips, they become nothing more than a whisper lost in the chaos.

I pace anxiously outside the facility, trying to come up with a plan. Finally making up my mind I charge back into the facility. As I make my way through the facility, my heart races with each passing moment. The corridors are eerily silent now, the chaos having subsided for the time being. But I know that danger still lurks around every corner.

I need to find Rush and warn him about the armed men's intentions, as well as assist him in any way possible.

After what feels like an eternity of searching, I finally locate the control room where the Particle Collider is housed.

I take a moment to assess the situation below. The particle collider is still intact, and humming with energy.

Carefully, I navigate through the observation area, making my way down a set of stairs to the lower level. The armed men are focused on their search, unaware that I am silently approaching.

As I reach the lower level, I notice a control room adjacent to the particle collider. Peering through the glass window, I see a lone scientist working frantically to keep the equipment running smoothly.

Realizing that the scientist is in immediate danger, I walk briskly through the door and enter the control room. The scientist looks up, startled by my sudden appearance.

"Who are you? What are you doing here?" she asks, her voice filled with both curiosity and fear.

"I'm here to help," I reply, my voice calm and determined. "The armed men are after the particle collider, and we need to stop them. Is there any way to shut it down or activate a failsafe?"

The scientist, visibly relieved by my presence, nods and quickly moves to the control panel. She types furiously, accessing the system's protocols and security measures.

"I can initiate a shutdown sequence," she says, her fingers flying across the keyboard. "It will take a few minutes to execute, but it should immobilize the collider and prevent its misuse."

As the scientist works, I keep a watchful eye on the armed men through the observation window. They are growing closer, their frustration evident as they search for their elusive prey.

"No, it's too late they already started it up I can't turn it off from here it'll need a manual override!" She groans in frustration.

Seeing the scientist's frustration, I quickly assess the situation. I know that time is of the essence and we need to act fast to prevent any further damage or misuse of the particle collider.

"I can do it," I say firmly, my voice filled with determination. "Give me access to the manual controls. I'll override the system and shut it down."

The scientist looks at me, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Are you sure? It's a risky procedure, and if something goes wrong-"

"I understand the risks," I interrupt, my voice steady. "But we can't let them gain control of the collider. I have to try."

With her reluctant agreement, the scientist gives me the code for the manual override, as she then heads off to lead the armed men away from the particle collider.

As soon as she catches the guards attention she runs off with the men chasing after her.

Quickly I run out towards the main override panel. Taking a deep breath, I focus my attention on the manual controls in front of me. The code the scientist provided flashes through my mind as I swiftly input it, my hands moving with precision and purpose.

But just as I'm about to complete the override, a loud explosion rocks the facility. The ground trembles beneath me, and debris rains down from the ceiling. Panic sets in as I realize that the particle collider has suffered severe damage and is on the brink of a catastrophic explosion. Without hesitation, I spring into action. I grab a nearby fire extinguisher and use it to combat the flames that have erupted in the control room. The acrid smell of smoke fills the air as I work quickly to contain the fire, knowing that every second counts.

The fire extinguisher runs dry as the fire gets worse by the second and time is running out. I need to disable the collider before it's too late.

Gritting my teeth, I push aside the panic and fear that threatens to overwhelm me. I refocus my efforts on the manual controls, my hands shaking from a combination of adrenaline and determination.

As I try to access the damaged system, The collider's malfunctioning circuits and fluctuating energy levels make the task exponentially more difficult as it shocks my hand.

"Okay, well that's a no go!" I panic as I try to think of something.

"Come on, think Jack, think what would Max do!?!" I exclaim as I rack my brain for ideas.

In that moment of desperation and uncertainty, I remember what said Max he does when he doesn't have any ideas "In those situations, I like to take a step back and assess the situation from a different perspective."

With those words echoing in my mind, I take a deep breath and force myself to calm down. I must approach this problem with a clear mind and a fresh perspective.

Looking around the control room, my eyes land on a secondary control panel that hasn't been damaged in the explosion. It's a long shot, but it might still hold some functionality.

Swiftly, I rush towards the secondary control panel. As I reach it, I notice that it's not directly connected to the malfunctioning collider but rather acts as a backup interface.

With a renewed sense of hope, I quickly examine the panel, searching for any signs of life. To my relief, a faint blinking light catches my attention. It's a small indication that there is still some power left in this part of the system.

Drawing inspiration from Max's resourcefulness, I begin to experiment with the controls, trying to find a way to disable the collider from this backup panel. The controls are unfamiliar, but I mean what else am I supposed to do? After several tense moments of trial and error, I finally stumble upon a command that might just work. With trembling hands, I enter the code and hold my breath, but the backup panel starts sparking and malfunctions ruining what could be my last chance. As the backup panel malfunctions, panic threatens to consume me. Time is running out, and I need to find a way to shut down the particle collider before it causes irreparable damage.

With a sense of urgency, I scan the control room for any other options. My eyes land on a large lever labeled "Emergency Shutdown." It's a risky move, but I have no other choice.

With a determined resolve, I move towards the lever and grip it firmly. Taking a deep breath, I brace myself for the potential repercussions of this action. There's no guarantee that this will work, but it's my last hope.

Without hesitation, I pull down on the lever with all my strength. A loud groan reverberates through the control room as the lever resists, but I refuse to give up. With a final surge of energy, I manage to overcome the resistance, and the lever snaps into place.

A deafening silence descends upon the control room as the particle collider's immense machinery comes to an abrupt halt. A wave of relief washes over me as I realize that I have successfully shut down the collider.

But my moment of triumph is short-lived as I hear the particle collider humming with energy then I see a flash of light as the particle collider explodes sending waves of energy crashing out from the facility. The force of the explosion rattles the walls and sends shockwaves through the surrounding area.

Instinctively, I shield myself from the blast and brace for impact. The energy waves wash over me, causing my body to be sent flying as I lose consciousness.

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As I open my eyes I am immediately blinded by light, after my vision clears up I see that I'm lying in a hospital bed, surrounded by beeping machines as my head rings. I turn my head to the side and see a nurse standing nearby, her face filled with concern. She notices that I am awake and rushes over to my side.

"Oh, thank goodness you're awake," she says with a relieved smile. "You gave us quite a scare there."

I try to respond, but my voice comes out as a raspy whisper. The nurse quickly hands me a cup of water, and I take a few small sips, feeling the soothing coolness flow down my parched throat.

As I regain my strength, the nurse explains that I was brought in after the explosion at Argus Industries. My injuries were minor, luckily. She tells me that I have been unconscious for several hours but should recover fully with time. "I'll notify your mother that you've regained consciousness," the nurse replies as she exits the room.

As I lay in bed, I look around my surroundings, until I feel a ringing sensation in my head, Suddenly, I feel more in tune with my surroundings. I can feel the wind rustling, even though the window is closed, hear a pen scribbling on a sheet of paper from approximately five blocks away, see particles of light seeping into the room through the window, Hell I could even smell the pack of smokes my dad went to get thirteen years ago.

Overwhelmed by the sudden influx of information, I take a deep breath and focus, trying to hone in on one specific sense at a time. As I regain control, I realize I have gained a new level of perception of my surroundings.

"What is happening to me?!?" I pant aloud to myself. Curiosity mixed with a touch of panic fills my voice as I try to make sense of this newfound sensory overload. I can't help but wonder what caused this transformation within me.

As I ponder this question, a memory flashes through my mind - the explosion at Tanaka Industries. Could it be that the blast somehow triggered a change in me? It would make the most sense during the tour the guide did say that whole point of The particle collider was to give power to the powerless, and I am or was powerless.

My mind races with possibilities and questions, but there is no time to dwell on them all now. I need answers, and the only way to find them is to delve deeper into this newfound gift.

Taking a deep breath, I continue to experiment, pushing the limits of my newfound senses. I focus on the sound of distant conversations, allowing the waves of voices to wash over me. I hone in on the subtle variations in tone, pitch, and rhythm, picking up details that I could never have noticed before.

Next, I turn my attention to sight. I concentrate on the particles of light that seep into the room through the window, observing their colors, intensity, and patterns. I marvel at the intricate dance of shadows and hues that were once hidden from me.

With each sense that I explore, I become more aware of the immense potential that lies within me. No longer bound by the limitations of my previous perception, I am filled with a sense of awe and excitement.

Suddenly, a knock on the door startles me out of my thoughts. The nurse reenters the room, a mix of concern and curiosity evident in her eyes. She has likely noticed the change in my demeanor and wants to ensure I am alright.

"Is everything okay?" she asks cautiously, her voice filled with genuine care.

I take a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. "Uh, y-yeah I'm fine." I nervously reply.

She wears a warm smile and says, "Ok, well I was just coming to let you know that your mom is here to pick you up."

Relief floods through me, grateful for the distraction mom's presence brings. "Thank you for letting me know," I reply, sitting up a bit straighter in bed. The nurse nods and steps aside to let my mom enter the room.

Mom rushes to my side, concern etched on her face. "Jack, are you okay? I heard about the accident!"

I offer her a reassuring smile and take her hand in mine. "I'm alright, mom. Just a bit shaken up, but I'll be fine."

She squeezes my hand and looks at me with her worried eyes. "I'm so glad you're safe. I was so worried."

In that moment, I debate whether or not to reveal my powers to my mom. She has always been my confidante, my rock. But the thought of burdening her with such a secret, especially during a time of crisis, holds me back.

Instead, I choose to focus on the present, cherishing the opportunity to be comforted by her presence. "I'm just glad you're here, mom," I say, with a small smile.

Mom's eyes soften, filled with empathy and love. She reaches out to brush a strand of hair away from my face. "I'll always be here for you, Jack. You know that, right?"

I nod, feeling a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty. "I do, Mom. And I appreciate it more than you know."

Her gaze lingers on me for a moment longer, as if searching for something. But she doesn't press further, sensing that now is not the right time to delve deeper into my well-being. Instead, she pulls me into a tight embrace, enveloping me in warmth and familiarity.

"I love you, Jack," she whispers. "Just remember, no matter what you're going through, we'll face it together."

*The Next Day after school*

Why hasn't anyone been talking about what happened at Argus Industries? Every time I've brought it up, people look at me as if I'm high off a kite. But that's not the weirdest part. There have been no news reports about the incident, and my mom is claiming she doesn't know what I'm talking about, it's as if she doesn't remember what happened yesterday, There's something weird going on but what? Knocked away from my thoughts on the walk home a subtle scent catches my attention, it's smoke, faint but distinct.

Curiosity piqued, I follow the trail, letting my senses lead me. As I follow the smell, the smell grows stronger, mingling with the cool evening air. It leads me down the street, thve scent growing more intense with every step.

I find myself standing in front of a burning apartment complex with people trapped inside.

My heart pounds with a mix of urgency and dread as I take in the scene before me. Flames leap from windows, licking the night sky with an insatiable hunger. Panic fills the air as people scream for help, their voices drowned by the crackling fire.

Without hesitation, I tap into my heightened senses as to assess the situation, while I pull the hood of my grey sweatshirt over my head. The cries for help become sharper, guiding me towards the areas where people are trapped. I navigate through the chaos with lightning-fast precision.

Inhaling deeply, I regulate my breathing and brakvce myself for the intense heat andv smoke. Utilizing my parkour techniques, I vault over a nearby dumpster, which somehow propels me up and through the third-story window.

"Okay, so it's not just enhanced senses. Got it. Good to know." I say to myself as I glance over my shoulder towards the broken window.

However, before I can continue my mission to rescue the trapped individuals, my sharp senses pick up an unexpected danger. A fire slinging sociopath emerges from the billowing smoke, a twisted grin plastered across his face.

In a split second, he unleashes a barrage of fireballs, aimked directly at me. Reacting instinctively, I throw myself to the side, narrowly avoiding the searing heat of the flames. The impact propels me forcefully, crashing through a wall with a thunderous boom.

Ah, my back!" I exclaimed, grimacing in pain as I struggled to get up from the rubble. Through the thick smoke, I could barely make out the figure of someone approaching.

???: So, I gotta ask, whose bright idea was it to send in training wheels when I called for a professional?

A mix of adrenaline and annoyance surged through me as I heard the voice. This guy had started the fire just to get attention? How desperate was he? I couldn't help but let out a sarcastic laugh.

"Wait, hold on. Are you telling me that you started a fire for attention? Geez, man, how desperate are you for a date?" I had to admit, the guy had some guts. But his attempt at intimidation wasn't going to work on me. I was ready to take him down.

The fiery figure, grunting in frustration, charged up a massive fireball. This wasn't a time for jokes anymore. I had to focus. I braced myself for what was coming next, my mind racing with possible strategies.

"I'm gonna assume that it's too late to ask if you have Texas Pete on hand," I muttered nervously, my earlier bravado fading. But there was no time to dwell on fear. Without warning, the pyromaniac unleashed a powerful beam of flames aimed right at me.

*Freeze Frame*

"Oh, hey look at you, you're all caught up now!"

*Resume*

Instinct took over. I called upon my enhanced senses and parkour training, evading the intense flames with lightning-fast reflexes. I twisted and turned, narrowly avoiding each strike as the searing heat licked dangerously close to me.

With each dodge, I moved closer to my adversary. I had to get in close to neutralize his advantage. I couldn't let fear hold me back. It was time to fight back with everything I had.

As I closed in on him, I struck with precision and speed. My training kicked in, each move calculated and deliberate. Fist met fire as I unleashed a flurry of powerful strikes, drawing upon my enhanced strength and agility. But it wasn't going to be an easy fight.

The pyromaniac fought back, launching waves of fiery attacks at me. I had to stay nimble, constantly adjusting and shifting my movements to avoid the flames. I could feel the heat intensifying, my body stinging from near misses, but I ignored the pain. I couldn't let it break my focus.

I tapped into my heightened senses, predicting his every move. With each dodge, each counter, I gained confidence. I leaped over obstacles, swung from the rungs on fire escape ladders, and tumbled through the air with grace. I used every ounce of my parkour skills and perception to gain the upper hand.

Slowly but surely, the tide began to turn in my favor. I landed a powerful strike, knocking the pyromaniac off balance. His flames flickered and diminished, his face contorting in defeat. This was my chance to end it.

With one final burst of energy, I delivered a decisive blow, sending the pyromaniac crashing to the ground. The fire that once symbolized his power now waned, replaced by the fading echoes of his malevolent laughter.

Taking a deep breath, I surveyed the battlefield. The smoke cleared, and I saw the grateful faces of the trapped individuals emerging from their hiding places and relief washed over me as the police, medics, and firefighters arrived.

Knowing that the situation was under control, I nodded at the emergency responders and stepped back, allowing them to take charge. My focus now turned to assisting the survivors, ensuring their safety and comforting them as best I could.

"Is everyone okay?" I asked, my voice filled with a mix of concern and relief. Some nodded, others quietly acknowledging their fear and shock. I offered a reassuring smile, knowing that they had just been through a terrifying ordeal. "You're safe now. Help is here."

I directed the survivors to the paramedics on site, making sure they received the medical attention they needed. As the authorities questioned them about what happened, I listened attentively, determined to gather any information that could be useful in apprehending the pyromaniac.

Time passed, and soon the chaos began to settle. Firefighters were extinguishing the remaining flames, while police officers scoured the area for any evidence. The once tumultuous scene transformed into a controlled operation of recovery and investigation.

I took a moment to catch my breath, my adrenaline slowly fading away. It had been an intense and dangerous encounter, but I had managed to come out on top. The pyromaniac had been defeated, and those affected by the fire were getting the assistance they needed. It was a small victory, but a victory nonetheless.

As the emergency responders worked diligently, I reflected on the events that had transpired. It had been a reminder of the importance of heroes in times of crisis, the need for individuals who could step up and protect others. And while I may have been dismissed as a "training wheel" initially, I had proven that I had what it took to make a difference.

Just as I was about to leave the scene, a man approached me with a curious expression.

"Excuse me, but who are you?" He asked.

I turned to face the man, a nervous grin spreading across my face.

"Me? I'm still trying to figure that out." I say nervously as I turned around and leaped up to a nearby building as I then began my swift return back home.