1° }} VIDEO, id: Mick Rory

[pyrogue]

[ Heat Wave turns on the video, wearing his signature costume, and tries to smile a little. ]

This is convenient, isn’t it? It's like having a support group for people stolen to an alternate universe. At least that's something. [ He wonders if it’s really a good idea, though. Mixing criminals, civilians and superheroes seems like a surefire way to get things heated. But he figures it's better than nothing.

Mick got here yesterday and has been figuring out his bearings. He’s less in shock now, so he might as well introduce himself. There’s also something he wants to address, especially given some of the folks he’s noticed merchandise for around. Just in case. ]

My name’s Mick Rory. They call me Heat Wave. I’m a hero. [ It almost sounds, very slightly, like he’s trying to convince himself when he says that. ]

I know I wasn’t always, so I wanted to make it clear. Save us all a headache. [ Pause. ] If you don’t know what I’m talking about, don’t worry about it. Just remember I’m one of the good guys.

[ Not sure what else to say, he’s about to turn off the camera when he remembers something important. ]

The pamphlet said Registration included health care – anyone know if that covers therapy?

Comments

[foreshadower]

Trapped in an alternate universe? Quite so.

But, one learns to live with it, Mr. Rory.

[pyrogue]

How've you been living with it?

[foreshadower]

Mmm, I've gotten by from being very...sociable.

And willing to cross the line -- the ah, one between respective cliques. I've found that works wonders.

[pyrogue]

No point burning bridges in a place like this, huh. That why you call yourself retired -- not working, but not switching sides?

[foreshadower]

I've never necessarily switched sides -- but I was never on one side to begin with.

[pyrogue]

Guess that makes sense. I can understand that. Me, I feel like I've done too much to make up for to rest on my laurels.

[foreshadower]

Mm, a shame. Perhaps that's the advantage of a long life.

I have all the time in the Universe to do that.

[pyrogue]

[ Wow, Shade. ]

Now you're just bragging.

[foreshadower]

What's the point of it if I don't get to rub it in everyone's face? [ A laugh. ]

It's a nice advantage.

[pyrogue]

At least you're honest about it.

[foreshadower]

And among villains like us, that's rather rare, isn't it?

[pyrogue]

Reformed and retired villains.