Chapter 27: Superhero Names
"Whiteking is a menace to society! If he truly wanted to help, why doesn’t he make all his fancy gadgets available to the public?!"
Several minutes had already passed, and yet Spectacular Mustache Man’s sudden and random rant continued on. His voice grew higher, faster, more unhinged with every word. The students exchanged glances, unsure whether to laugh or worry.
Thankfully, after a few moments, he caught himself. He cleared his throat and brushed up his mustache with both hands.
"A-anyway," he muttered, regaining composure. "Our first lesson today is about understanding the value of the lives you’ll save—and recognizing your own value as a hero... if you do, indeed, choose that path."
He took a breath, then met the students’ eyes one by one.
"When you’re out there saving lives, you’re not just saving people—you’re becoming something more. A symbol. An ideal. You."
He pointed directly at Gary.
"M-me? I knew it," Gary whispered, clutching his chest. "I’m the chosen–"
Spectacular Mustache Man completely ignored him and pointed to another student, then another.
"You, and you. All of you. Each of you can become a symbol for the people, just like Megawoman."
And at a single mention of her name, the room held its breath. Even the air felt heavier. Everyone seemed to pause in reverence as they imagined Megawoman. Well, everyone except Riley, who still didn’t fully grasp and get her importance.