19.y (Bonus Interlude #2; Parahumans Online)

Worm, Chapter 19.y (Bonus Interlude #2; Parahumans Online) Summary:

This chapter takes the form of a series of online forum posts and private messages.

“What the Fuck Happened?” - A thread started by Bagrat, a self-proclaimed “cape geek,” seeking information about the events in Brockton Bay on June 20th. He outlines the known timeline: Mayor Christner’s visit to Washington, an explosion at town hall during Coil’s attempted coup, a massive cape deployment to Brockton Bay, and subsequent quarantine procedures. Users speculate about the nature of the threat, with theories ranging from an interdimensional war to Cauldron’s involvement.

Private Messages - XxVoid_CowboyxX chats with GstringGirl about an online game, “Space Opera.” He suggests meeting up, but she declines, citing strict parents. Later, she reveals her phone is broken and expresses discomfort with his assumption that she’s a “middle-aged pervert.”

“The Ground Zero Badge” - A thread on a private Brockton Bay board. White Fairy, a moderator, proposes stricter verification for users with “Ground Zero” badges, citing misuse for status and spreading misinformation. Verification methods include a photo with the date and username or an in-person meeting. XxVoid_CowboyxX is called out for lying about his location and situation, claiming to be in Bitch’s territory with a generator but unable to provide photo evidence.

“Legend Leaves the Protectorate” - A thread discussing Legend’s resignation. Users speculate on his successor, ruling out Eidolon due to his personality. Weld, leader of the Irregulars, clarifies that his team remains connected to the Protectorate and that their departure was amicable. He neither confirms nor denies issues with specific Protectorate members. A user named Answer Key asks about payment to keep quiet, issues with members and what happened on 20th.

“The Endbringers, Thread XXXIV” - A thread discussing the Endbringer cycle. Users debate the impact of recent events on the next attack. Xyloloup provides a breakdown of the current villain territories in Brockton Bay: Skitter (Boardwalk/North), Parian (upper end), Grue (western end), Imp (southernmost end), and Regent (eastern end). Bitch controls remote areas. Tattletale is mentioned as a behind-the-scenes figure.

“Hypothetically, if I wanted to become a henchman…” - WagTheDog expresses admiration for Bitch and inquires about joining her gang. Char offers assistance via private message.

Private Messages - GstringGirl continues to message XxVoid_CowboyxX, explaining her inability to send a photo and asking to return to their previous dynamic.

“Who’d you lose?” - A thread for users to share their losses from the Leviathan attack. XxVoid_CowboyxX claims his aunt and uncle were killed by the Chosen. White Fairy questions the story’s veracity. Vista lists several capes and an unnamed family member.

“Skitter” - A thread discussing Skitter. Users debate her morality and power. Nondeceptive wonders about her real-life identity. Antigone notes her location and physical description.

Greg, reading the “Skitter” thread, connects the dots and realizes Skitter might be Taylor Hebert, a girl he knew from school. He recalls her anger and frustration and wonders if her parents know about her cape identity. He considers the attention Skitter is receiving and whether she’ll attend summer classes. He imagines himself in her shoes, craving a second chance and confidence. He decides to attend class, curious to see if she’ll be there.