24.y (Interlude 2, Aftermath)

Worm, Chapter 24.y (Interlude, Aftermath) Summary:

A doctor attends to Wanton’s bandaged arm in a helicopter, with Tecton nearby. Wanton, despite losing his arm, feels an unexpected rush of gratitude for being alive. The doctor suggests he might be in shock, a sentiment echoed by the other Wards present. Cuff expresses a grim outlook, questioning what happens after they defeat the remaining Endbringers, if that’s even possible. Tecton reminds them that escalation is a real concern, but urges them not to shoulder the burden alone. He praises the new Wards for their bravery in facing Behemoth alongside veteran heroes. Cuff, however, feels she didn’t do enough to fulfill promises made after her family’s death in Hawaii.

Tecton discusses the team’s potential, mentioning Weaver. Golem expresses concerns about Weaver holding a grudge due to his past in the same city, fearing his former associates might have harmed her or her friends. Wanton, in his usual blunt manner, suggests that Weaver doesn’t hold grudges, but those she has reason to dislike don’t tend to survive. Tecton advises Golem to be honest with Weaver about his past and his family’s ideology.

The scene shifts to Pretender, stepping through a portal created by Doormaker into a white hallway. He meets Satyrical, who tries to dissuade him from leaving. Pretender explains that he’s involved in something bigger than Endbringers, something related to the end of the world. Satyrical questions him about Alexandria’s body, which Pretender now inhabits, learning that she was a Case 53 with a brain left vulnerable as an Achilles heel. Pretender reveals that he killed her to buy Satyr time, as he knew they’d be questioned about their involvement. They agree to stay in touch, with Pretender suggesting that Satyr’s group can be a resource to his new organization, and vice versa, as their goals are aligned, differing only in scale.

The narrative jumps to a chatroom on Parahumans Online, where users discuss the aftermath of the battle in New Delhi. Reports indicate that Scion annihilated Behemoth, with confirmation coming from texts sent by a cape’s wife. The mood is a mix of disbelief, excitement, and concern about the damage to the city.

Colin (Defiant) watches as Dragon’s backup system attempts to restore, encountering numerous errors. He reflects on his solitary life and his relationship with Dragon, feeling a sense of loss and uncertainty. He leaves the Tiamat II to assist with relief efforts in New Delhi, unable to bear watching the backup process fail.

Annex (Kirk) sits in a hospital bed, waiting for test results. A doctor informs him that other capes who fought in New Delhi have tested negative for radiation, offering a glimmer of hope. Kirk expresses a desire to call someone, anyone, to occupy his thoughts.

A news report confirms Behemoth’s death, with Scion delivering the final blow. Public reaction is mixed, with some celebrating cautiously, others doubting the Endbringer’s demise, and some fearing a retaliatory response from the remaining Endbringers.

Taylor (Weaver) calls her father, Danny, who is overjoyed to hear she’s alive and unharmed. She reveals that Behemoth is dead, and that she played a part in his defeat. Danny expresses his pride and amazement, but Taylor senses his fear of her, exacerbated by her actions and reputation. She explains her efforts to distance herself from her past, finding a middle ground in the battle that both terrifies and confuses her. She reveals that she’s in trouble for her actions, caught on camera, and feels that even the authorities are afraid of her. Danny denies being afraid, but his hesitation speaks volumes.

A forum thread on Parahumans Online discusses a newly released video of the battle in New Delhi. Users express shock and awe at the footage, with some questioning the identities and allegiances of the capes involved. Weaver’s actions, particularly her apparent betrayal of a teammate, are scrutinized.

Glenn Chambers, preparing to be fired, packs up his office. Weaver confronts him about the video, which was intended for therapy and her conduct review, but was released online. Glenn explains that it wasn’t his choice to share it with the review board, but he did choose to release it publicly. He argues that it’s the best footage of the event, a way to garner support for the PRT and the heroes’ actions. Weaver is unconvinced, feeling it’s a betrayal of her team’s privacy. Glenn insists he’s her ally, aiming to expose the PRT’s corruption and instigate change. He believes the video will, despite the controversy, ultimately improve her public image and force a more honest discussion about the realities of being a hero.

Glenn explains the “rule of three,” suggesting that this is Weaver’s third major appearance in the public eye, solidifying her presence. Weaver counters with her own “rule of three,” highlighting her betrayals of her teammates. Glenn suggests that the video might actually help her mend fences with her old team, by showing the public the bond they share. He admits he couldn’t ask for her permission, as she would have refused, and time was of the essence to control the narrative before Scion overshadowed the heroes’ efforts.

Weaver accepts Glenn’s explanation, acknowledging his role as a sacrifice to deflect initial anger. He offers her his contact information, urging her to seek advice from his replacement, even if she dislikes them. Weaver, using the phone provided by the authorities, decides to call her father.

Defiant, helping with rescue efforts, receives a call. He instructs Tiamat II to hold off on any reports, then answers. The caller is not identified, but the implication is that it’s someone significant to him.