15.7

Worm, Chapter 15.7 Summary

Skitter, wounded from Flechette’s attack, needs urgent medical attention. Unable to trust Coil, she contacts Tattletale for help, who assures her that her medic, Brooks, is trustworthy. Despite her injury, Skitter maintains her composed facade as she enters her base, focusing on the ongoing recovery efforts in her territory. Brooks assesses the wound, a spike embedded in her shoulder, and determines that surgery is necessary. He gathers the required tools from a local dentist’s supplies, which Skitter’s team had acquired.

During the wait, Skitter interacts with the kids in her lair and Bryce, Sierra’s brother, a former Merchant. Bryce challenges Skitter’s authority, questioning her role in the city’s problems. Sierra defends Skitter, revealing the fear she harbors towards her boss due to past events, but Bryce remains defiant, highlighting the role of capes in the city’s destruction.

Skitter, using her bugs, creates swarm-clones to maintain a presence in her territory while undergoing surgery. Brooks begins the procedure, dislocating her shoulder to access the wound. Meanwhile, Skitter engages in conversations with her team leaders, coordinating recovery efforts. Parian arrives, revealing that the money Skitter offered wasn’t enough to help everyone. She expresses her desire to help and considers Skitter’s offer.

Skitter explains her perspective on the broken societal rules due to the imbalance caused by parahumans. She justifies her plan to take over the city, believing it’s the only way to provide for the people. Parian is torn, feeling guilty for not doing more, but acknowledges Skitter’s efforts. Skitter offers a compromise: Parian can take territory and help her people without being labeled a villain or joining the Undersiders. Parian’s decision hinges on Flechette’s approval.

Skitter, acknowledging Parian’s dilemma, states she can live with Parian’s hatred if it means helping her people. As Brooks finishes the surgery, Skitter contacts the man plotting to kill her, ready to face the challenges ahead. She accepts Parian’s potential animosity, prioritizing the well-being of the people under her care.