The Scumbag's Guide To Heroism novel Chapter 36

Chapter 36: 36 | From Unmarked to Force Manipulation

I hopped onto the table while Sloane and Diane took seats nearby. The leather surface was cold through my jeans.

"So," Charles said, pulling up a digital file on his tablet, "I understand you’ve manifested a Channeler-type Aspect. Telekinetic variant?"

Before I could answer, Diane leaned forward. "Actually, Charles, I believe we’re looking at something more complex than basic telekinesis."

Both Sloane and I turned to stare at her. This wasn’t what we’d discussed.

"Oh?" Charles looked interested. "How so?"

"The manifestation has elements of telekinetic function, yes," Diane continued smoothly, "but there’s something unusual about the energy signature. I believe it might be classified as a Force Manipulation variant rather than simple telekinesis."

Charles’s eyebrows rose. "That’s considerably rarer. Force Manipulation would classify differently in our system—potentially at a higher rarity tier depending on the specific mechanics."

I caught on to what Diane was doing. She was creating a cover story broad enough to potentially explain both my abilities—the spectral arms and the Blitz movement—under a single Aspect classification. Force manipulation could theoretically account for both telekinetic control and enhanced movement if the force was applied to the user’s own body.

Clever.

Sloane looked confused but thankfully stayed silent.

"Would you mind demonstrating for us, Lukas?" Charles asked, activating several scanning devices that hummed to life around the table.

I nodded, focusing on activating Spectral Reach. The translucent amber construct extended from my palm, reaching toward a glass paperweight on Charles’s desk. I wrapped the spectral fingers around it and lifted it into the air, making sure to maintain the appearance of concentration and effort.

Charles watched with professional interest, eyes darting between me and the readout screens. "Fascinating color signature. Most telekinetics present with blue or white energy fields. The amber is unusual."

I pretended to strain as I rotated the paperweight in the air, then set it back down gently.

"The range appears to be approximately fifteen feet?" Charles asked.

"That’s right," I confirmed.

"And maximum weight capacity?"

"Around fifteen pounds before it gets difficult to maintain," I said, repeating what I’d told Sloane. "Though I’m still learning my limits."

Charles nodded, making notes. "Very typical for a fresh manifestation. The control seems remarkably refined for someone who just discovered this ability, however."

Diane jumped in smoothly. "Lukas has been studying Heroes and their abilities for nine years. I think his theoretical knowledge gave him a head start on practical application."

"That would make sense," Charles agreed. "Now, Diane mentioned potential force manipulation aspects to this Aspect. Have you experienced any other effects beyond the telekinetic function?"

Here was the tricky part. I glanced at Diane, who gave me a nearly imperceptible nod.

"Sometimes when I’m training, I feel like there’s a surge through my whole body," I said carefully. "Like the energy isn’t just coming from my hands but moving through all of me. I haven’t figured out how to control that part yet."

"Interesting." Charles adjusted something on his tablet. "That could indeed indicate a Force Manipulation classification rather than pure telekinesis. The energy signature readings are somewhat unusual as well."

He ran several more tests, having me lift different objects, testing my precision by threading a needle with the spectral construct, and measuring energy output levels. Finally, he sat back and studied his tablet.

"Well, I’ve seen enough to make a determination," Charles said. "Based on the manifestation demonstration and energy readings, I’m classifying this as a Rare-tier Force Manipulation Aspect with primary telekinetic expression. I’m naming it ’Phantom Touch’ as per your request form."

He tapped a few more times on his tablet. "Given the late manifestation timing and the unusual energy signature, I’m also flagging this for potential secondary functions as development continues. This will give you some flexibility in how the Aspect is documented as it evolves."

Diane smiled. "That sounds perfect, Charles. Thank you."

"Of course." He turned to me. "Congratulations, Mr. Belmont. You are officially registered as an active Channeler-type. I’ll update your IHL profile immediately, which should reflect in the system within the hour."

The System notification appeared in my vision almost instantly.

〘 MAIN QUEST COMPLETE: Registration Day

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