15.x (Interlude; Rory Christner)

Worm, Chapter 15.x (Interlude; Rory Christner) Summary

Rory Christner, also known as Triumph, freshly recovered from a near-death experience, finds himself in a heated debate at the Protectorate’s headquarters. His girlfriend, Prism, checks on him, and together with Ursa Aurora, they rush to the Wards’ headquarters where a division has emerged among the ranks.

Miss Militia and Assault lead opposing sides in an argument about responding to the Undersiders’ attack on Triumph’s family. Assault advocates for a swift, covert retaliatory strike, arguing that the Undersiders have broken the unspoken rules of engagement, especially after Shatterbird’s city-wide attack and Shadow Stalker’s capture. Miss Militia, supported by Weld, counters that such an action without the PRT’s authority would constitute vigilantism and could escalate the conflict into a full-blown war, which they are ill-equipped to win.

Triumph, once a team captain, feels disconnected from the Wards. He observes the varying stances of his former teammates: Clockblocker, Chariot, and Vista side with Assault, while Kid Win stands with Miss Militia. Flechette, Ursa, and Prism remain neutral. The debate intensifies as Assault lists their losses, including Gallant, Aegis, Velocity, Dauntless, Battery, Shadow Stalker, Glory Girl, and Panacea, emphasizing their dwindling numbers and the need for action.

Miss Militia warns that retaliation would likely result in an outright defeat, given their enemies’ superior firepower and tactical knowledge. Triumph, breaking the tension, agrees with Miss Militia, emphasizing the need for Protectorate support and adherence to the rules.

Director Piggot enters, introducing two figures in power armor: Dragon and Defiant. Dragon explains their mission to pursue the Slaughterhouse Nine, who typically retreat after a spree to recruit and plan their next attack. Defiant, revealed to be a heavily modified Armsmaster, states their intent to relentlessly hunt the Nine, maintaining constant pressure to force a mistake.

Dragon reveals she can operate nine advanced armored suits simultaneously, seven of which will be stationed in Brockton Bay for rapid deployment. The suits include the Cawthorne mark three, the Astaroth-Nidhug hybrid, and the Ladon-Two, a forcefield generator. These suits will provide significant support to the Protectorate, especially during double patrols post-election.

Triumph, however, is troubled by the charade. He recognizes Defiant as Armsmaster but is silenced by Director Piggot’s implication that speaking out would jeopardize the plan and the deployment of Dragon’s suits. Despite his moral conflict, Triumph chooses not to expose Armsmaster, prioritizing the greater good of stopping the Nine and protecting the city.

After the meeting, Triumph seeks solitude, grappling with his decision. He reflects on Armsmaster’s path, understanding the man’s hunger for respect and the pragmatic choices made in the heat of battle. Triumph visits the scar, a radioactive zone where Crawler and Mannequin were turned to silicon, seeking clarity and a way to distinguish between monsters and men. He leaves, haunted by the realization that he has taken a step down the same path as Armsmaster, compromising his principles for the greater good.