OverXelous
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Chapter 59 - Unbound
🕑 Added 2024-12-11 14:00:10 +0000 UTC“No way!” Mark yelled. “How the hell is this kid so good!”
Alex laughed and tossed the control onto the coffee table after he died. He reached into the chip bag in front of Sam and chomped down on a chip before ruffling the teen’s hair.
“Man, I don’t know, but he kicked both of our butts.” He stepped over Sam and walked to the kitchen counter, where he’d left his phone. “Alright, it’s about that time. Sam, you’re sure you’re good to stay with Mark?”
Sam looked over his shoulder and nodded at Alex.
“Go on, dude. He’ll be fine! You’re just hoping he says he wants you to stay so you don’t have to go to dinner.”
Sam looked back and forth between the two quickly before raising his eyebrows at Alex.
“Ugh. You and Sarah are too much. Don’t answer the door, and don’t go out there. It’s a madhouse since Taker disappeared yesterday. Can’t believe Elana saw this coming. I’ll be back later; don’t burn the place down. Val, let’s go!”
The steadily growing mana wyrm flew from the bedroom and dove into Alex’s coat.
You really like that cat tree, huh?
“Home.”
Alex chuckled and grabbed his keys. A short drive later, he was knocking on his parent’s door. His brain flashed back to the last time he’d been here, a bit more than a month ago in normal time, and a completely different person. He’d felt like a superstar during the event on Friday and felt invigorated after standing up for himself after Rylan had tried to intimidate him. It had been surprising to find that he could see through the man’s blustering.
When he compared someone like Rylan to someone like Eura or even some of the formidable warriors of the Celestial Lotus Sect, he was nothing. He was an oversized kid with some powers, whereas they were weakened warriors with decades of training. He knew that if he could hold his own against them, then someone like Rylan Voss wasn’t worth getting worked up over.
He did his best to carry that same confidence and growth to his parent’s house, but for some reason, he found it hard.
Why does the idea of talking to my parents scare me more than getting into a fight with someone who’s got superpowers and 100 pounds on me?
When his mom answered the door, Alex gave her a hug and walked into the entryway. His dad called a greeting from the living room and they walked to meet him. Alex looked around curiously. While his parent’s house felt small, it wasn’t the same suffocating feeling as before. Instead, he, himself, felt larger than the small dwelling.
The smell of home-cooked food was more comforting than he remembered it being, and he was able to relax when he sat on the couch. It was clear that his mother was excited for Jake to arrive, and she hinted twice that he had some sort of big news to share. Alex idly wondered if he should share with them any of his own recent successes.
Nah, I guess tonight is about Jake. Knowing my parents, they’d probably just freak out if I tried to explain to them that Awakening was actually a good thing. Mom has always compared money to success, though; I think she’d weep if she heard some of the initial numbers that Elana was throwing around… Maybe I will tell them in a few days? At the very least, it might get them off of my back for a bit.
Jake arrived after a time, and they made small talk until dinner. Alex noted that his clothes were new and looked to be expensive. He also kept checking his phone for the time or a notification, which he thought was weird. His mother fussed over him some, but after some time they gathered around the table in their normal seats. Alex had to stifle his laughter as Jake casually ate his food, and their mother looked like she was about to explode from anticipation.
“Alright, son. What is it that you wanted to tell your mother and me?”
What am I, chopped liver?
“Well, it’s close enough.” Jake started dramatically, “I’ve recently quit my job.”
The entire table was silent, and the clink of forks on plates ceased.
Their parents loved Jake’s job and how successful he was at pharmaceutical sales. His mom loved to hear about his achievements and share them with nearly anyone who would listen.
Jake checked his phone again before locking it and putting it in his pocket. He then stood and smiled. “Actually, before I explain why, there’s something you need to see. Let’s go to the living room, really quick. It’s important.”
Alex noticed an unusual seriousness in his brother’s normal, carefree attitude. Their parents exchanged confused looks before following Jake’s lead.
Jake muttered to himself as he fiddled with the remote and turned on the TV. It was still on a sitcom rerun station that his mother loved to watch.
“Jake, what-”
“Just one second, Mom,” Jake said while rechecking his phone. “Any minute now.”
The sitcom cut off mid-scene and was replaced by the harsh, beeping tone of the emergency broadcast. The strange test pattern filled the screen, though Alex supposed it wasn’t a test this time around.
The President of the United States appeared on the screen, standing at a podium. There were people standing to either side of him, but Alex’s eyes widened as he looked at the country’s leader.
Holy shit. He awakened. There’s no way he didn’t. He has to have increased his Vitality.
The current president was at the end of his term in office. He’d been old at the start of his term, but the stressors and pace required to live in the White House took its toll on the man. In the last year, there had been countless memes and jokes made about his slow intellectual responses or failing memory.
The president that stood behind the podium looked at least ten or fifteen years younger, his eyes were bright and attentive as he looked into the camera. He had a solemn expression as he glanced down at the podium and waited for several long moments.
Alex could imagine that even though they were quiet and watching in the living room, the odd silence and seriousness of the situation would likely cause a hush to fall over even the rowdiest of sports bars.
“Good evening, my fellow Americans.” There was a slight whine from the microphone before he continued. “Today, I address you not only as your President but as a concerned citizen of this great nation. Over the past two months, we’ve faced an unprecedented challenge. One that has changed everything we thought we knew and will continue to do so. The emergence of the Rifts has brought with it dangers that we must confront head-on.” He shook his fist in a show of force that all but confirmed to Alex that he was Awakened.
“Yesterday, we witnessed a truly tragic event. A beloved member of our online community, known to many of you as Taker, entered a Rift in an attempt to understand the unknown, only to be lost. Despite the camera’s inability to work within the Rift, he and his team set the livestream pointed at the portal and entered with promises of returning victoriously. The live broadcast of Taker’s disappearance was seen by hundreds of thousands. I understand the fear and uncertainty that many of you are feeling. We mourn the loss of Taker and recognize the grief this event has caused many of you at home.
“But from this tragedy, we must find a way to rally together. We must use our collective strength to move forward. Not just for ourselves… but for our families and our future. The Hunters Association was established to protect us from these very dangers, and it is now more important than ever to support their efforts. “
Their dad immediately began to grumble and huff about the fake news and propaganda that was being pushed by “The Media.”
“Dad,” Jake said while waving a hand.
He got up from his recliner and called their neighbor. “Rob, are you watching this shiet?”
Alex tuned out his father and listened with rapt attention to the public announcement. He realized that this was an event that would be recorded in history, and nothing would ever be the same moving forward.
“The Hunters Association, led by brave individuals like the Crimson Warrior, is here to protect us and guide us in this changing world. These Hunters are ordinary citizens who have stepped up in extraordinary ways to defend their communities, and we are asking more of you to join their ranks. To all who have the strength and will to protect others, we need you. To those who cannot fight, we will continue to do everything in our power to keep you safe.
“We understand that these times are frightening. We understand the anger, the frustration, and the questions without clear answers. But we must turn that fear into determination and that anger into resolve. Together, we will face this threat, and together, we will overcome it.” There was cheering, and the President raised his hand with a smile and waited for the noise to die down.
“To help protect our citizens, the government has designated Safe Zones across the country. These cities are places where you will find protection, support, and community. We ask that those in more remote or isolated areas consider relocating to these Safe Zones, where we can concentrate our efforts and resources effectively. Our goal is to provide assistance with relocation, including temporary housing and financial support for those in need. Our aim is to ensure that no one is left behind.
“In the coming weeks, you will see increased military and Hunters Association personnel in your communities. They will be there to provide security, assist with relocation efforts, and help establish local defenses. We are also coordinating with state and local governments to set up temporary shelters and provide essential resources for those affected.
“We have also established community support programs that will help those relocating and provide training for those who wish to assist in the defense efforts. These programs will be vital as we move forward.
“We are not alone in this fight. The Hunters are our shield, and they are fighting on behalf of every one of us. As we honor the courage of those we have lost, we must also look ahead and build a future where we can face this threat with unity and strength!
“Please, everyone, listen to a few words from our strongest shield in this fight. Many of you have seen this man from afar, closing Rifts alone and fighting against the unknown. This man has recently joined the Hunters Association and is working with our full support to continue fighting against the Rifts. The Crimson Warrior.
“Thank you, and may we all find strength in each other in the days to come. “
He’s closed Rifts by himself?
Alex’s eyebrows rose unintentionally, and he wondered what level the man must be at. He was impressed by his sheer size and clear physical power as he stepped forward into the same space that the white-haired president had been. The current speaker, who introduced himself as Jonathan Reeves, seemed like he could crush the podium in a bear hug.
Jake turned down the volume once the main speech was over, and the room remained silent for several moments. Jake stood before them, his usually confident smile replaced by a searching look.
“That’s actually why I wanted to talk to you tonight,” he said. He looked at their dad, who had returned and was staring at the TV in shock. “You see, I got an offer for a better job!”
“A better one?” Their mother asked, confused.
“Yes! Well, you saw the speech and the government incentive program, right?”
No…
“Bah, it-it’s just got to be a fake.” Their father said, but the normal conviction with which he dismissed things was absent.
“No, but it’s not, Dad! I met some friends, and we went to check out one of those portals. I’ll have to tell you all about the adventure later. But anyway, I awakened my power and when I applied at the Hunter’s Association, they said that it was one of the most rare Traits that they’d ever seen.”
No.
Their mother looked like she might break down into tears at any moment.
“Don’t worry, Mom,” Jake said. “I won’t be in any danger! I’ll still be a salesman of sorts, but I’ll just be working for the government now. They offered me an exclusive contract. Do you want to see the offer letter?” He reached into his jacket’s inner pocket, removed a piece of paper, and handed it to their father.
The man looked at the paper, and Alex actually saw it begin to shake in his hands.
Fuck me. There’s no way you can be better than me at this, too…
He looked at Jake, feeling a familiar sense of futile frustration rise from the pit of his stomach and into his sternum.
His brother just smiled back and waited for their parents to read the letter.
“Son… is this real? How? Why would they offer you- us so much?”
“Well, family is important to me. So when they offered me a contract, we were all a package deal. You too, Alex.” Jake winked at his younger brother.
I want to punch him.
Their mother looked at the contract as it was passed to her, and then she began to cry, but her smile made it clear that it was from happiness.
“That’s great, son, but why? The offer seems unreasonable. Are you sure it’s not a scam?”
Jake laughed and shook his head. “No, it’s not a scam. I met with the Hunters Association recruiters in person, and it caused quite a stir. Why? Like I said, I happened to get a very unique Trait. It unlocks a special ninth stat called Charisma. The government thinks that if I’m able to raise the stat, they could use me as a diplomat or negotiator with other awakened countries.”
Alex took a deep breath and sucked in his leaking mana. He’d let it slip out there for a minute, forgetting to keep up his practice.
What does it matter if he’s Awakened? He won’t be better at this than me. He may have a strong Trait, but Eura showed me what I can become with unstructured magic and that my own Trait wasn’t broken. He called it stronger than any other multiplier he’d seen and with the potential to stand out even among the strong.
Sam and I are likely the two highest-level people in the country. What the hell does it matter if Jake, of all people, is Awakened?
As the thought settled on Alex, he found that it really wasn’t forced. He believed it. There wasn’t a need to compare himself to his brother. They were different people, and even more so after Alex’s most recent experience. If traits were given based on a person's past life and potential future choices, as the articles suspected, then his brother would certainly be the type of person to get a charisma-based Trait.
For once in his life, despite all the reactions around the living room, Alex didn’t feel inferior to his brother in any way.
Maybe a bit like my thunder was stolen, at least about the awakened bit, but it doesn’t really matter. I’m happy with where my life is headed and how I’m living it.
He debated once again sharing his recent accomplishments with his parents but came to the same conclusion as before, if for a different reason. That evening was for Jake and all about Jake; he didn’t want to take that away from his brother. He was also surprised to find that he felt very little need for his parents' approval. They were happy, Jake was happy… Alex was happy.
Feeling his mentality shift, Alex took a deep breath and smiled at Jake. The smile was genuine, and he was sure that it was big enough to show through the illusion mask he wore.
“Congratulations, Jake. I’m happy for you.”
The conversation for the evening continued to revolve around Jake and how much his change in status will affect the family. His parents began discussing what would be involved in moving and what would happen next.
Alex sighed sadly as he noticed the inevitable shift in conversation. Rather than ending on a high note, the familiar tug of competition and the weight of comparison began to settle on the room. He realized that despite his newfound confidence and power, he was still stuck in the same old narrative.
I’ve grown, but this just feels like it’s going to stunt my growth.
Jake boasted next about being able to provide for the family and implied that Alex should be contributing more, then leaned back with a smirk. It was clear he wanted to get a rise out of his brother, though it was said in a way so as not to sound malicious.
“I am sure I could talk to those recruiters again and see if we can get you a job, too, Alex. You might even be able to help me in whatever they have me do. You know? We could work together. That would be cool!” Jake winked at him. “You wouldn’t want to be a freeloader, right?”
Instead of rising to the bait, Alex stood calmly. “Yeah. I’m not going to stay for this, guys. I love you, but it’s time I focus on my own journey.”
Jake’s eyebrows raised high on his forehead as he leaned forward. “What journey? You’ve had it easy, Alex. You’ve been ‘following your passion’ for years now and don’t have anything to show for it. Don’t you think it’s time to step up?”
Alex laughed incredulously and shook his head.
Ahh, it’s a little cringy… right? Fuck. I should do it. I really should do it.
But which one?
The room fell quiet, and his parents looked at him with surprise etched on their faces.
Alex opened a window in his System and willed it to be visible so that Jake could see. His mother gasped from behind him as the blue screen appeared in the air.
Title: Unbound
You have defeated a monster ranked above your own, shattering the limits imposed upon you. This victory proves that no barrier can truly bind your potential.
+5 to all stats
He might not even understand what that means at this point. Damn, I hope he asks one of those government goons. It would be hilarious if they explained it to him.
Jake’s face scrunched up in confusion as he worked through the realization that Alex also had access to the System.
Valtherion, you should say ‘Hello’ as well. Come on out.
His bond had remained on his shoulder the entire evening, using his illusion skill to hide his appearance. The camouflage was almost perfect since he was still so small, and as long as he didn’t move, the illusion didn’t break. There was a slight blur as Valtherion moved down his arm, and when he got to Alex’s hand, he broke the illusion.
Just a few inches from Jake’s face, Val’s face appeared. Bug eyes, jutting teeth, and all. His brother reacted much as he had the first time the companion had materialized so close to his face. Jake yelped and fell backward over his own feet.
At least he had carpet to land on.
Their mother screamed and his father yelled out in surprise, demanding to know why he brought a snake into the house.
“I love you guys,” Alex said again as he walked to the front door. “I’m going to be skipping the next few family dinners. Merry Christmas!” Alex took a deep breath of the cold winter air as the door closed behind him. He let it all out in one go while taking off the illusion mask. It billowed into the air, and he couldn’t keep in a laugh.
Damn, but that felt good. I don’t know the last time I felt this light!
Skipping down the steps of their house, Alex walked to his car and started it up.
It’s just a few days until Christmas. I need to get Sam a present. Shit, I don’t have gifts for Mark or Sarah either! I should get something for Olivia, too, right?
He pulled out his phone and opened up a message with Elana, hoping she might be able to help him get some goodies from the Auction House in a rush order.
Comments
DeathTick
This chapter pretty much solidifies what I thought from the beginning. The whole influencer thing was a sham by the government. They found someone popular and got that person to gather the world's focus. And then, just as the world watched with bated breaths, they staged this influencer's death to legitimize/solidify their importance to keeping the world safe.
TerrestrialOverlord
Nice...This almost read like one of those satisfying reddit stories where the Golden Child was made to realize they weren't that special after all. I hope Alex doesn't let himself drop out of the TOP 5 most powerful at any time, because in a world where strength is law and anyone can become strong, the only way he can protect Sam and his friends and family is if he is strong enough to make sure, even taking them hostage is not viewed as a viable option.
Ron
The conversation for the evening continues to revolve around Jake and how much his change in status will affect the family. His parents began discussing what would be involved in moving and what would happen next. **continued **
TJ O'Hare
I love seeing the Golden Child get his comeuppance. This was a good chapter, lots of growth. Love the mental health insights.
Beeees!
Beautiful, felt very satisfying at the end. Kinda hoping that there's more of a grudging respect for Alex and that Jake doesn't just become some annoying sleezeball or that charisma is some brainwashing type thing and willpower being the thing to defend against it means Alex is the only one who could see through the bullshit or something along those lines
OverXelous
I'm sure he will be if he's dealing with powerful people like Rylan, Alex, or Jonathan. I've got to imagine that a lot of power dynamics would change.
Beeees!
I'm sure Jake keeps a much tighter lid on that arrogance in public settings, but he sure loves to gloat to his brother lol.
nathbregou27
Jake should be knocked down a notch if he want to become a diplomat with his charisma. Satisfying exit from Alex lol
V L
I love it. Gettem Alex. Amazing. What a liberating feeling.
