001 | video

[mcgill]

[The man seated uneasily in front of the camera probably looks familiar to anyone who knew or knew of Saul Goodman, ex-defense attorney and daytime TV judge extraordinaire. He has the same face, mostly, save for the abundance of hair on his head (which is sticking up just slightly, like he's been exposed to a stiff breeze or, in his case, static electricity) and fewer wrinkles around his eyes than anyone who got close enough to him might remember. And his smile, just like Saul's, is playfully crooked — though it's laced with a nervousness that doesn't really fit the image Saul projected whenever he had an audience. This man isn't as confident as his older lookalike, that much is clear, nor is he as brightly dressed. (A white dress shirt and a bland, striped tie are all that's currently visible.)

But he has that same ol' sparkle in his eye, and he straightens up a bit as soon as he's ready to speak, which is a habit anyone would recognize: that sudden shift from casual to professional Saul made any time he approached the bench or a business meeting.

And as for his voice — that's the same, too.

This is almost definitely Saul Goodman, but:]

Hiya. The name's Jimmy McGill. James, technically, but — I prefer Jimmy.

[He lifts his hands into view. Saul's trademark (fake) Rolex and gold pinky ring are missing, but that's because they're obscured by a pair of heavy-duty electrical gloves.]

I've got a little problem on my hands, pun only halfheartedly intended. [A laugh, one quick huff of air. Saul's laugh: Heh.] Seems the powers that be decided I should have the ability to manipulate power itself. Electricity, I mean. More specifically — [A brief pause, a swallow. He tries to play it off; there's no reason this word should bother him.] Electromagnetism. So, since I have no idea how to control an honest-to-God superpower because they're not really real where I come from, this is... uh, it's an issue. Anyone got any tips? Tricks? Ways to wake up, maybe?

[He smiles again, this time thin-lipped and a little desperate. It looks like he's on the verge of panic.]

Please?

Comments

[mcgill]

[He puts his hands up, easing off.]

My bad. I'm not trying to pry.

[resipiscent]

What? No, that's okay. I just... didn't know whether I should explain myself, or...?

[mcgill]

Nah. [One of his hands waves, gently dismissing the topic.] No worries, man. I just didn't want you to think I was being nosy. First day newbie jitters, heh.

[God, it's like being a freshman all over again.]

[resipiscent]

I gotcha. You'll get used to it, I promise. Even though you probably aren't into that.

[mcgill]

Into what, getting used to weird shit? Nah. I promise, I'm much more flexible than I seem right now.

[resipiscent]

Just freaked out, then. No shame in that.

[mcgill]

I prefer keeping the freaking out to private spaces, though, you know? Like in a closet or a bathroom or something.

[resipiscent]

I gotcha. I can see why that might be more appealing. I try to kinda... keep it out of the spotlight too, if I can help it.

[mcgill]

Mm. No one wants to be exposed like that.

[resipiscent]

It's okay. I think it's a normal reaction.