20 December 2023

Limit Break: Episode 3: The Possibilites of the Self

 

Limit Break Episode 3: The Possibilities of the Self

Location: Hospital

The room door opens as the dark-skinned police woman enters, carrying a bunch of gifts. Much to the delight of the police officer lying in bed.

Male police officer: Devi, it’s good to see you!

Devi: I could say the same to you, Kenny. How are you feeling right now?

Kenny: I feel like these bills are gonna kill me.

Devi: Heh. Same old same old.

Kenny: What about you? You okay?

Devi: Oh, I’m doing fine. Thanks to-

Kenny: That superhero kid?

Devi: Yeah. Can you believe it? An actual superhero. It’s like something out of TV.

Kenny: …Right. Superhero?

Devi: …Oh, I know that look. Those judging eyes, you don’t trust that kid.

Kenny: Obviously. That superkid appeared at the same time as those monster freaks. What a convenient coincidence.

Devi: Yeah, it is convenient. You get to badmouth that kid from the safety of your bed. While that kid almost died trying to save your sorry rear.

Kenny; That kid who glows all dark and ominous? Totally not suspicious.

Devi: That’s…

Kenny: There’s also Datin Wang and Spark’s daughter.

Devi: What about them?

Kenny: You don’t find it suspicious how 2 of this city’s richest families cares for that superkid?

Devi: It’s call “human compassion”, Kenny. Maybe you should try some of that.

Kenny: Hah! Compassion?! From that Wang *****?! Oh please, pigs will fly first.

Devi: And so is my hand.

Kenny: Wha-

Smack!

Nurse: Ooof!

The nurses winced at Devi’s actions.

Before snapping pictures eagerly.

Nurse 1: This is going into my funny compilation!

Devi: Until you recover from your obvious brain damage, I’ll be keeping these gifts. Bye.

With that, the police woman left Kenny. Comically sprawled on the floor, with a huge slap mark on his face.

Nurse 3: Heh. Serves him right.

Nurse 1: That will teach him not to be so bull-headed.

Nurse 2: Err…Shouldn’t we help him?

Nurse 1: Hmm…I guess we should…after we post this on social media.

Nurse 2: Nice!

Location: Violet’s Residence.

Atma: Whoah…

Atma gazed in amazement at the sight of the mansion in front of him. The enormous mansion, as huge as the eye can see.

Zafira: I’m returning to my room. Don’t bother me.

Before Violet could say anything, Zafira walks back to her room, passing by a cylindrical robot.

Maid Robot: Greetings. Welcome ho-

Zafira: Shut it.

And so, the robot did.

Atma: Oh My God! You’re so cute!

Atma’s eyes sparkle with glee, as he notices the cylindrical robot. Painted to look like it’s wearing a suit.

Atma: Hello there, I’m Atma. What’s your name?

Butler Robot: Greetings, Guest Atma. Welcome to the Spark Mansion.

Atma: Hello? I said, what’s your name?

Butler Robot: What service do you require of me, Guest Atma?

Atma: Your name.

Butler Robot: Apologies, Guest Atma. Your words aren’t clear. May Giest Atma repeat your words?

Atma: I said-

Violet: Err, Atma?

Atma: Yeah, Violet?

Violet: That’s…err…not a person, Atma. It’s a machine.

Atma: Wait, what? Really? But it speaks like one.

Violet: Yes, it does, Atma. It will do anything you ask it. Watch. *Ehem* Butler, grab a glass of water for our guest.

Butler Robot: Order received.

So, Butler Robot did. And returns with a glass of water.

Atma: Whoah, fast! Thanks!

Violet: No matter the order, it will do so without delay. And it isn’t the only robot serving this mansion. There are dozens of other robots just like this at this mansion. working tirelessly to make sure you feel comfortable here.

Atma: Whoah!

Violet: But these are just machines. Not people. If you need someone to talk to, or hang out with, you can always look for me, Rode, and especially Zafira.

Atma: Heh, of course I wanna hang out with Zafira. But I wanna see this whole place first. It’s so huge…

Violet: Ufufu, of course, Atma. Follow me.

And so, Violet shows Atma around the huge mansion.

But because the author’s a lazy fraud, we’ll be skipping straight to Atma’s room.

Violet: And here’s our final destination, your very own room.

Atma: Whoah…it’s huge. Like a…like a…well, it’s huge!

Violet: Ufufu, I’m glad you are satisfied with your room, Atma.

Atma: Satis-what?

Violet: It means you like it. This room will ensure that you will stay comfortable. No matter the temperature. That over there is the bathroom where you’ll be taking a bath. This drawer,

She opens a huge drawer, revealing an assortment of many, many clothes.

Violet: Has the clothes you need. If there’s none that satisfy you, I’ll order some other new clothes. Just for you.

Atma: They seem fine. Let me try them out.

Violet: W-w-wait, Atma!

Atma: Yeah?

Atma stop taking off his shirt.

Violet: …It’s fine if you undressed in front of your mother (for your age), Atma. But, not in front of others. Especially not in front of girls. It’s improper.

Atma: Whoops. Sorry!

Violet: It’s alright, Atma. Just don’t do that again.

Atma: By the way, what’s that big thing over there? Looks so flu…flu…flu…

Violet: That’s the bed where you will sleep. It’s all for yours only.

Atma: Whoah…thanks Violet. Like seriously, thank you.

Violet: You’re welcome, Atma. Go take a bath and change your clothes, before sleeping for the night. I’ll see you tomorrow morning!

Atma: See you tomorrow!

With that, Violet left Atma. Soon, Atma step into the bathroom, preparing to take a bath. When he encounters a problem,

Atma: …err…which should I use?

Atma stared in confusion at the various buttons inside the bathroom. He ponders and ponders and decides,

Atma: Eh. I’ll just try them all!

And so, he did.

Which he regreteed immensely.

Atma: Brr! S-s-so cold!

Atma shivers as he steps out of the bathroom.

Atma: Next time I’m asking Violet for help. It’s so…cold?

Suddenly, the temperature in the room grew warmer and warmer. Not too hot, just the right temperature to dry off and provide Atma warmth.

Atma: Whoah…Violet’s right. This feels good! Fuh…

Soon, Atma is ready to lie on his bed, wearing one of the clothes he found in the drawer.

Atma: Hmm…these clothes are not as cool as the one I’m wearing before, but eh. It’ll do for now. Now, time to sleep!

And so, he did. The second he lies on the bed; he quickly drifts into dreamland.

Atma: Kroh…kroh…

Dream Atma: Hah…hah…hah…You okay, mother?

Dream Mother: I’m fine.

Atma took a defensive stance as he and his mother are surrounded by lots and lots of monsters. And I mean a loot of them. Atma already taken out a lot of them, but more are still coming.

Dream Monsters: Muehehe! We are so evil!

Atma: Scrap! How do I beat these jerks?!

Dream ??????: Leave it to me!

Vroom!

Suddenly, a motorcycle appears out of nowhere. Heading towards the monsters. And the person standing right on top of it is,

Atma: Zafira!

Zafira leap from her bike, flying high through the air, before crossing her arms together, and unleashing her,

Zafira: Z Kousen!!!

The beam of light from Zafira arms hit every monster, instantly vaporising them.

Leaving no monster remaining.

Mother: Oh, my goodness! Your friend is so cool!

Atma: I know, right?!

Zafira landed gracefully in front of them, before brushing off the dust of her hands.

Zafira: This is nothing. Not even 1% of my full power.

Atma: Thanks a lot, Zafira!

Mother: Really, we are so thankful for you.

Zafira: It’s nothing.

Atma: Man, I wish I could as cool as you!

Zafira: Why not?

Atma: Eh?

Zafira: I’ll teach you everything you need to know. On how to be,

COOL.

With me by your side, nothing can get in the way of our coolness!

Atma’s eyes sparkles in amazement at Zafira’s proclamation as she extends her hands towards Atma. All Atma could say is,

Atma: YES! YES! YES!-

Atma: Yesss…yessss…yessss…

As Atma enjoys his bizarre dream, his clothes start to change…

Next morning…

Knock, Knock.

Violet: Wake up, Atma. It’s morning-oh, my.

Violet smile in amusement as she steps into Atma’s bedroom, and saw Atma sprawled all over. Half his body on the bed, and the other half lying on the floor.

Violet: Ufufu. You must have slept well last night. Wake up, Atma. It’s not good to lie like th-eh?

As Violet removes the covers from Atma, she notices something about Atma’s attire. In that, it’s now red and blue. Just like the clothes Atma was previously wearing.

Violet: From the shape and design, it’s definitely one of the spare clothes from inside the drawer. But I’m sure there’s none that has this colour scheme. Hmm…is it just like that time?

Location: Pak Majid’s Food, Yesterday

Violet: (thoughts) Hmm…Nothing beats a good plate of nasi lemak.

Violet thought to herself as she sits in the corner of the restaurant, feasting on her food. When suddenly, Zafira enters the restaurant, dragging Atma.

Violet: (thoughts) Eh? Zafira? What she’s doing here? And with a boy??? Wait…don’t tell me…she’s sneaking out…for a boy?!?!?!

Violet’s Imaginations:

Corrupted Zafira: Uwek! I hate you! I want to run away with my boyfriend!

Zafira’s evil boyfriend, with his devil horns, devil teeth, and devil tail, wearing  a t-shirt saying “I’m evil” cackled with glee.

Evil Boyfriend: Hahaha! I’m gonna corrupt this innocent woman, and there’s nothing you can do to stop me! Muahahaha!

End of Imagination:

Violet: (thoughts) Yamete! I can’t allow it! I mustn’t allow it! I have to…wait, that boy. He…doesn’t seem evil…rather, he looks like he hasn’t eaten for a week…

Atma: Ergh…so hungry…

Violet: (thoughts) Ah, I see.

Violet smile warmly, as she realises what’s actually happening.

Violet: (thoughts) How silly of me. I should have expected better from a good girl like Zafira. Can’t say I approve of sneaking out of the mansion…but I’ll let this slide…

Violet: Excuse me, waiter. Two plates of nasi lemak for them, please.

Violet continues to observe Zafira and Atma, and grew amused at Atma’s antics.

Violet: (thoughts) Ufufu. What a humorous boy.

Atma: Thanks, Zafira. You’re super cool! Love ya!

Violet’s eyes nearly dropped of out of the socket in surprise, as she saw Atma’s attire changing attire. Along with Atma’s chest crystal.

Violet: …Excuse me?

Violet: …Ufufu. The ability to change your clothes colour however you want. It’s almost magical.

Atma inserts his card.

2 blue and red magical glyphs appear on Atma, as Atma inserts his card. Before a yellow volt aura engulfs Atma, transforming him into his Volt Mode.

Violet: …Or perhaps it is? Perhaps it’s not just merely advanced technology…?

Chibi Violet: Which means you should get rid of this kid. Immediately.

Suddenly, a Chibi form Violet appears, perched on Violet’s shoulder. Looking rather pissed.

Violet: Excuse me? Why would I do such a thing?

Chibi Violet: Hello??? Did you forget? You promised yourself you won’t get involved with magic anymore.

Violet: …Yes, I did.

Chibi Violet: So???

Violet: I also promised to look after him. And that takes priority. So there.

Atma: Ergh…wha…?

Violet: Oh, Atma. You’re awake.

Atma: Huh…?

Violet: I have breakfast ready for you.

Atma: Brea…wha?

Violet: It means food in the morning.

Atma: Food?!

Instantly, Atma is awake. Much to Violet’s amusement.

Later, at the dining room.

Atma: Mmm! Yummy!

Violet chuckle as Atma gobbles down his breakfast in one go.

Violet: Eat slowly, Atma. Don’t rush.

Atma: Hehe, sorry. Zafira said the same th-wait, Zafira! Where is she? She should be eating this as well!

Violet: She’s…tends to busy in the morning. But don’t worry Atma, I’ve sent breakfast to her room.

Chibi Violet: Yeah, right. Let’s be honest, that brat doesn’t eat with you because she hates your guts.

Violet: You shouldn’t assume the worst out of others.

Shoulder Angel: Assume what?! It’s pretty obvious since day 1, that brat despises you. She never even considers you her sister, despite what you’ve done for her!

Violet: Aren’t you my shoulder angel? Shouldn’t you be saying something positive?

Atma: The heck is a shoulder angel?

Violet: Oh! Err…you heard me, Atma?

Atma: Hard not to.

Violet: Oh. It’s, uh, nothing. Just thinking to myself. Are you still hungry, Atma? You can ask for more.

Atma: Really? Yes! Thanks, Violet.

Violet: The pleasure’s all mine.

Violet snapped her fingers, and a robot maid placed another plate of food for Atma, much to his delight.

Violet: I would have love to accompany you, Atma-

Atma: Hmm?

Violet: But I have business to attend to. In the meantime, after breakfast you can do whatever want. Whether alone, or hanging out with Zafira, I don’t mind. As long as you’re having fun. Just remember to tell me through Zafira.

Atma: No prob!

Violet: See you later, Atma.

With that, Violet left Atma and head out with Rode. Leaving Atma to enjoy his breakfast.

Atma: Yum! This food is yummy!

Lanzhu: Eh, I’ll give it a 5/10.

Atma: Gah!

Debuk! Crash! Clang!

Lanzhu cackled with glee at Atma’s surprised outburst, which flips the table and the chairs upside-down. Somehow.

Atma: Lanzhu?

Lanzhu: Yo!

Atma: Wow, I didn’t know you live here too.

Lanzhu: Hah! I wish, but nah. I’m just want to visit you, Mister Superhero.

Atma: Superhero? What’s that?

Lanzhu: Pfft, nice one kiddo.

Atma: Nice what?

Lanzhu: …Wait, you don’t know?

Atma: …No. Even if I did, I can’t even remember. ‘Cause of my amne…amnes…amnes…

Lanzhu: Wait, you have amnesia? For real?

Atma: Yeah, that! I don’t remember anything before I woke up and get saved by Zafira.

Lanzhu: That brat? Saved you?

Lanzhu raised her eyebrow, sceptical.

Atma: Yeah! She was so cool. If she didn’t save me, I’d have no idea what’ll happen-

Just then, Atma remembered something.

Atma: I forgot! You saved me as well, Lanzhu.

Lanzhu: Now you remember?

Atma: Thanks for yesterday, Lanzhu. Sorry I forgot!

Lanzhu: Is that all?

Atma: Hmm?

Lanzhu: I risk my life saving your rear, and a thanks is all I got?

Atma: Not sure what “life” is, but you’re right. I haven’t repaid you yet. So, what do you want?

Lanzhu smirk deviously.

Lanzhu: Hmm…how about…that belt of yours?

Atma: Oh this? Here you go.

Atma hands over his belt to Lanzhu, much to her astonishment.

Lanzhu: Wait, for real? Just like that?

Atma: Yup. You can have it if you want.

Lanzhu: Wow. To say you’re naïve is an understatement.

Atma: Wha?

Lanzhu: I just want to take a look at this thing. I doubt I can use it, considering I’m not half robot like you.

Atma: Oh.

Lanzhu looks over the belt in her hand, before noticing something.

Lanzhu: Yo! This thing can fit two cards? Sick!

Atma: Wait, really?

Atma look over his belt, and saw that Lanzhu is right. The belt does indeed have 2 slots, not just one.

Lanzhu: Wait, you don’t know?

Atma: Ehehe, no…Hmm, maybe I could use 2 cards? I wanna try-oh, wait. I can’t. I need to fill my SP Bar first.

One explanation later.

Lanzhu: So, you need to beat up people first before you can use any of these?

Atma: Yup.

Atam remarks as he shows his cards to a curious Lanzhu.

Volt. Wave. Grapple.

Lanzhu: Hmm? Hey, look at this!

Lanzhu points at the Grapple card. Like Atma’s other two cards, it has a blue background. But interestingly, Grapple Card has the words “Ready” inscribed on it.

Atma: Rea…reya…reyad…how do you say it?

Lanzhu: …You sure you’re not just dumb?

Atma: Oi!

Lanzhu: Let’s try this one.

Without waiting for Atma’s response, Lanzhu slots the Grapple card into Atma’s belt.

GRAPPLE WEAPON: READY

A grapple weapon digitally materializes on Atma’s right hand. Much to his surprise, amazement, and delight.

Atma: Whoah…how did you do it?!

Lanzhu: The card says “ready”, so it’s ready.

Atma: Wait, that’s what it says? Huh. Thanks a lot, Lanzhu. This is so cool!

An excited Atma fires his grappling claw, which smashes into a vase.

Crash!

Atma: Oh scrap! Didn’t mean to do that.

Lanzhu: Nah, it’s okay.

Atma: Wait, really?

Lanzhu: Trust me, Violet wouldn’t mind.

Atma: Oh, thank goodness.

Lanzhu: Hmm…there’s a lot of stuff you don’t know about you and your powers, huh?

Atma: Yeah… I wanna know more. What other cool stuff I could do?

Lanzhu: Why not we figure it out?

Atma: Eh?

Zafira: Uwargh…

Zafira yawned loudly as she exits her room.

Zafira: (thoughts) Can’t believe I overslept…I was gonna teach him silat today…and test out this gadget…Hopefully, he hasn’t grown bored.

And so, she searches for the human-robot hybrid inside the huge mansion.

And keeps on searching…

And searching…

And searching…

Until she ran out of patience.

Zafira: Where are you?!?!?!

Dining room, no.

Living room, no.

Recreation room, no. Do I seriously have to search this whole stupid mansion? Urgh! This is why I despise this place. Other than staying with that woman…wait.

A thought came to Zafira’s mind. A very inconvenient thought, but one she must make sure of.

Zafira: …(thoughts) His shoes aren’t here. And that woman’s car is nowhere to be seen. The conclusion is obvious…

Smack!

Zafira: (thoughts) I just wasted my time! Urgh....should have just slept in…

Zafira is about to head back in, when she notices the gate opening automatically. Signalling a car is coming.

Zafira: (thoughts) I didn’t even get to rest…

Violet’s car parks at the mansion’s parking lot, before Violet exits the car.

Violet: Oh? What are you doing here outside, Zafira? Is Atma hanging in the game room now?

Zafira: …(thoughts) wait, what?

Zafira: Isn’t he with you???

Violet: Eh? No. The last I saw him is in the dining room. I thought he would have been with you?

Zafira: …what.

Location:

Atma: Ergh…

Atma’s face is turning red, as he strains himself for…something.

Atma: Ergh…

He’s starting to run of breath.

Atma: Ergh…

Until he couldn’t take it anymore.

Atma: Gah! I can’t do it!

Lanzhu: Hah hah hah! You look like you’re taking a dump!

Atma: Urgh…no matter how hard I use my boosters, I can’t fly. What a bummer…

Lanzhu: Well, from what I’ve seen so far, there’s a lot of stuff you can’t do.

Atma: Hey!

Lanzhu: What? It’s true. You can’t use your shockwave attack; you can’t use your jet swords-

Atma: Hey, I can use those! Look!

Atma focus on thinking about his jet blades.

Before the jet blades materialized on his wrists.

Lanzhu: Yeah, but you couldn’t shoot with those things, right? You can’t even fuse them into a sword.

Atma: …You’re right…hah…I can do it before, why can’t I do that now? I want to fly…It would be so cool. Zafira would love it!

Lanzhu: You really care about that brat, huh?

Atma: Brat?

Lanzhu: Zafira! I said, Zafira.

Atma: Of course, I care about Zafira. Zafira saved me, after all. While looking super cool.

Lanzhu: Oh, so you want to be just as cool as her, huh?

Atma: Duh, why wouldn’t I?

Lanzhu: Well, I know just the thing.

Atma: You do?

Lanzhu smirks, a devious plan forming in her head.

Violet: Calm down, Zafira.

Zafira: Why?! That idiot went out without telling me! He could be lying dead in a ditch, or getting kidnapped! Once I find him, he’s gonna get it…

Violet: And we’ll find him, I assure you.

Zafira: How?! This city’s huge! Where are you gonna find him?!

Violet: We at least have to try, Zafira. With the help of my friend.

Atma: Hah…hah…hah…fuh…I’m tired…but it’s fun!

Lanzhu: Heh, you’re a fast learner, superhero boy.

Atma: All thanks to you, Lanzhu. Can’t wait to show this to Zafira.

Lanzhu: Just thanks? My help isn’t free, you know?

Atma: So, what do you want? Tell me, and I’ll get it for you.

Lanzhu smirks deviously.

Lanzhu: Hmm…how about a little-

Ring!

Lanzhu: Hang on.

She looks at her caller, and smirks. Before putting her phone on speaker mode and answering it.

Lanzhu: Yo, Violet! How it’s doing gal?

Atma: Violet?

Violet: Eh? Atma? Is that him with you?

Zafira: !

Lanzhu: Oh yeah, I stole him for our date.

Violet: Excuse me?

Zafira: ?

Atma: Date?

Lanzhu: Hang on, kid.

Lanzhu close off speaker mode, before saying,

Lanzhu: What, jealous?

Violet: Lanzhu, he’s a kid.

Lanzhu: So?

Violet: You’re a teenager. 13 years old.

Lanzhu: So, what?

Violet: …

Lanzhu: …

Violet: …

Lanzhu: …

Violet: …

Atma: …Lanzhu? You okay-

Vioelt: Where are you right now?

Lanzhu: Not stuck in a stuffy mansion with that brat, that’s for sure.

Violet: I’m serio…you sneaked Atma out, didn’t you?

Lanzhu: Maybe I did, maybe I didn’t? Who knows?

Violet: …We need to talk.

Lanzhu: What do you think we are doing?

Violet: …Just stay there. And don’t try anything inappropriate.

Lanzhu: Violet, you wound me! When I have ever done anything like that?

Violet: …

…You really want me to answer that-

Lanzhu: Oops, my line-is-breaking-gotta-go-bye!

With that, the line is disconnected. Leaving a questioning Zafira.

Zafira: Oi, what’s going on?

Violet: …Someone’s is getting a stern talking to…

Rode gulped in fear, while Violet searches Lanzhu’s phone location…

(~~)

Lanzhu: Heh. Same old Violet. Too easy to tease. Now where were we-hmm?

Atma: Hah…hah…hah…

Lanzhu: The heck is wrong with you, superkid?

Atma: Thir…sty…

Lanzhu: Heh. Even a half machine like you still need water, huh? …Although machines do need coolant…Come on, let’s get you a drink.

With Lanzhu leading the way, the two of them found a vending machine, where some people are queueing in front of it.

Atma: What…hah…that?

Lanzhu: Hang on. Oi!

She exclaimed at the waiting people. They turn towards Lanzhu, before gasping at the sight of Atma.

Civilian 1: Isn’t that…

Civilian 2: That freak! What’s he doing here?!

Atma: Oi-

Lanzhu: Yeah, that’s right! This freaks gonna give you a piece of his mind unless you scram!

Atma: Wh-

Civilians: Eeek!

Almost instantly, everyone fled. Leaving the vending machine for Atma and Lanzhu.

Lanzhu: Heh! Too easy!

Atma: Why do…hah…say that…? I’m not…hah…

Lanzhu: Save your breath, kid.

With a simple click, 2 tin cans pop out of the machine. Before Lanzhu open it and hands one over to Atma.

Lanzhu: Here.

Immediately, Atma glug down the whole can.

Atma: Wow! This drink is…wow! Just, wow!

Lanzhu: I know, I know, I have good taste.

Atma: Thanks, Lanzhu!

Lanzhu: Oh, it’s nothing. Hmm…this thing isn’t sweet enough.

Atma: Eh? Really?

Lanzhu: Oh, don’t worry. I know how to make it sweeter.

Lanzhu smirks, before-

Violet & Zafira: Atma!

Atma: Hmm? Oh, Violet! Zafira!

The naïve Atma smile with glee as the two girls approached Atma, without realizing how furious Zafira is.

Atma: Zafira, I-

Zafira: Do you know how worried I am?!

Atma: Eh?

Zafura: I wasted my time searching for you, only to find you fooling around with her!

Lanzhu: Is that supposed to be a bad thing? He has way more fun hanging with me than wasting time with a brat like you.

Atma: Wha-

Zafira: You-

Lanzhu: Besides, he doesn’t belong to you, brat. He can do whatever he wants.

Violet: It’s true he doesn’t belong to anyone, Lanzhu, but Atma’s under my care. It’s my responsibility to look after him. It’s hard to accomplish that, when you didn’t tell me or Zafira where did you go, Atma. Like I told you to.

Atma gasp in horror and shock as he realizes his mistake.

Atma: Scrap! I forgot! I’m sorr-

Zafira: Of course, you forgot! What do you even remember?!

Lanzhu: That’s rich coming from you, brat.

Violet: ?

Zafira: What?

Lanzhu: You also went out yesterday. Without telling anyone. Rules for him, not for me?

Zafira: Wha?! I…err…That…

Zafira stammers, as she tries to think of a retort. But she couldn’t. As she just realizes her hypocrisy.

Violet: Wait, how did you know that Lanzhu? I never told you any of that.

Lanzhu: Oh, come on. It’s not that hard to figure out. I’ve seen that clip. That brat looks like a deer in highlights when she saw you. Obviously, she didn’t expect you to be there. And since this ungrateful brat hates you, it’s not hard to connect the dots.

Zafira: (thoughts) Huh?! She knew just from that? For real?

Violet: Hold on, Lanzhu. Did you sneak Atma out…just to teach Zafira a lesson?

Lanzhu: Hah! You make me sound like I care for this brat. I could care less about her. But what I do care is payback against this brat. For making you worry.

Violet: Two wrongs doesn’t make a right, Lanzhu. Besides, I’ve already settled this matter with Zafira yesterday-

Lanzhu: Tch! Of course, you would say that. You always say tha-

Zafira: I’m sorry, Atma.

Atma: What?

Lanzhu: Hah?

Zafira: I’m got mad at you when I did the same thing yesterday. I’m a hypocrite.

Atma: What? No! You’re not a hyproc-

Lanzhu: No, she literally is. She’s a walking definition of hypocrite.

Atma: …what is a hypocrite znyway?

Zafira: All you need to know is that I’m at fault here. Not you. You don’t have to say sorry.

Atma: Oh…errr…I-

Zafira: If you wanna go out, I…I have no right to-

?: Ouw!

Immediately, all 4 heads turn to the source of that sound. Which turns out to be a little girl in white hijab. Who spilled her ice cream on a thug.

Girl in White: Oh, sorry Mister! I didn’t mean to!

Thug: Sorry?! Sorry isn’t gonna pay for my jeans, you brat!

Girl in White: Eek! B-b-but I’m really sorry!

Atma: Yeah! She said sorry. Chillax already!

Atma glares at the thug. Which the thug scowls back.

Thug: It’s none of your business-

Atma: Then I’m making it mine-

Violet: Let me handle this, Atma.

Violet put her arm in front of Atma, before addressing the thug.

Violet: Tell me the cost, and I’ll pay for it. As long as you leave the kids alone.

Zafira: …

Lanzhu: Really, Vi? You’re giving face to this freak?

Thug: What did you call me?!

Lanzhu: The truth.

Atma: Yeah!

Thug: Oh, you wanna mess with me? Well then…

The thug took out a cylindrical object. Much to everyone’s confusion, and worry.

Violet: Whatever it is you’re doing, we can still settle this matter peacefully si-

Thug: Shut it.

Suddenly, the thug stamps the object on his wrist.

SAW!

Thug: RRAGH!

Suddenly, the thug’s body changes. From the head to the feet, front to back, his body morphs.

Into a monster.

To say everyone is shocked is an understatement.

Atma: What the?! You look like those jerks from yesterday!

Girl in White: Eeek! A m-m-monster!

Monster: Huh. This feels good! I could get used to this.

Unlike the monsters from before, this monster has what seems to be several frills on its back. Very, very sharp frills, resembling circular saws…

Violet: Kid, run away!

Monster: Oh, no you don’t!

The monster grab one of its saw-frills and is about to throw it at the little girl-

Atma: Jet Boost!

Before Atma pushed the girl out of the way. Narrowly dodging the saw blade.

Atma: You okay?

Girl in White: *sniff*…I’m…I’m scared! *sniff*

Atma: Don’t worry! I’ll save-

Zafira: Atma, watch out!

Another saw blade flew towards Atma, aiming for his back.

Clang!

Which Atma deflected with his jet blade.

To say everyone is surprised is an understatement.

Monster: You…you deflected my blade?!

Atma: Back of!

Atma took a guarding stance, with both of his jet blades out. Protecting the girl from the evil monster.

Monster: Don’t get cocky, brat!

The monster takes out more saw blades before throwing them at Atma, one by one.

Clang!

Clang!

Clang!

Which Atma deflects. All of them.

Atma: Hah…hah…hah…

Zafira: (thoughts) …aren’t those Silat techniques…?

Lanzhu: Heh! I taught him those moves.

Zafira: What.

Atma didn’t stop there though, as he activates his Grapple card.

GRAPPLE WEAPON: READY

Zafira: ?

Before Atma shoot his claw and caught the monster by the wrist, preventing it from taking its blades.

Monster: Urgh! Let go, you brat!

Atma: Surrender first!

Monster: Not a chance, brat!

With its other hand, its free hand, the monster grabs a blade to try and cut the cable.

Zafira: Atma, pull!

So Atma did.

Which made the blade missed the cable.

Slash!

Monster: Argh! My hand!

Lanzhu: Pfft!

Lanzhu snorted out a laughter.

Atma: S-sorry! I didn-

Zafira: Don’t! Attack that freak now!

Atma: Right! Hiyah!

With a strong jet boost, Atma swing the monster into the air. High, high in the air.

Smash!

Crack!

Before slamming down the monster. Hard. Much to Lanzhu’s delight.

Lanzhu: He also learned that from me as well.

SP BAR FULL. ABILITY READY

Zafira: ?

Atma: Ouw,ouw,ouw!

Atma grasps his strained shoulder, much to the girls worry.

Zafira: Atma!

Violet: Don’t strain yourself!

Atma: I’m fine! I just wanna try out what Lanzhu said. Using two cards at once.

Zafira: What?

Atma: Now where does it *ouw* go…?

Atma inserts his Volt card into another slot in his belt.

VOLT

GRAPPLE

SYNCHRONISE

The girls watch in amazement as Atma and his grapple weapon transforms. Gaining yellow colours and bolt patterns. And his weapon transforms.

Into a much bigger, much sleeker weapon. More resembling a beam blaster.

PENCAPAH VOLTAN.

Atma: …

…Cool.

Atma glances at the monster on the ground, as it struggles to get up.

Monster: Urgh…

Atma: Heh. Should had surrendered earlier.

Atma click his belt,

FINISHER ACTIVE

Before flying high into the air. And aiming his weapon upwards.

Zafira: What are you…

Zafira’s words die on her tongue.

As Atma’s weapons starts to gathering electricity, charging a big ball of electric energy.

Atma: FINISHER!

Atma aim his weapon at the monster, who is panicking and pathetically trying to crawl away.

But Atma’s not having any of it.

Atma: VOLTAGE BEAM!

The voltage charged beam engulfs the monster, before resulting in an explosion. Amazingly, the explosion didn’t harm anyone else.

Only the monster, who’s return to its human form, unconscious.

MATERIALIZING…SAWBLADES

Atma: Nice.

Atma’s Mother: So, you can spin on your…what’s it called?

Atma: Axis.

Atma’s Mother: Yes, that. Sorry, your mother doesn’t really know much about these terms. So by spinning on your axis, you-

 

Atma: …

…Wait, is that it?

Lanzhu: That was super cool, kid! Looks like my lessons aren’t wasted on you.

Atma: Oh yeah, it is cool! Thanks, Lanzhu! If it wasn’t for you, I never could beat this jerk.

Zafira: She taught you…those moves?

Lanzhu: What? Just because I’m Chinese, you think I don’t know silat?

Zafira: Wha-I never said that!

Zafira stammers as her face became red, much to Atma’s confusion.

Violet: You taught him silat, Lanzhu?

Lanzhu: Along with a lot of other things. Like exploring what he can’t do (which is a lot),

Atma: Hey.

Lanzhu: What he could do, all that stuff.

Violet: So…you’re not just trying to get back at Zafira? You are trying to help Atma?

Lanzhu: Let’s just say I’m curious. I want to see Atma could do. You have a lot of potential, superhero.

Atma: Oh, er, thanks Lanzhu.

Violet: I don’t approve you sneaking Atma out of the house, but I’m grateful for all you’ve done for Atma. Just don’t do that again.

UNDERSTOOD?

For some reason, a deathly aura emits from Violet. Directed at Lanzhu. Who’s sweating very, very nervously.

Lanzhu: C-c-crystal, boss.

Atma: ?

Violet took a deep breath. Before,

Violet: Atma.

Atma: Yes, Violet?

Violet: You can go outside the house. You can hang around with Lanzhu. Or anyone else. You can go anywhere you want. Just please, tell me first. Can you promise me that, Atma?

Atma: Got it, Violet! I promise you I won’t break any more promises again. And I’m really, really so-

Zafira: Don’t.

Zafira glares at Atma.

Zafira: Don’t apologize for something that’s not your fault.

Atma: Oh, alright. So, what do you think Zafira? Do I look cool or what?

Zafira: …

Zafira didn’t speak, as she avoids looking at Atma, looking downwards instead.

Atma: …Zafira? You okay?

Violet: Is there something wro-

Zafira: None of your business.

Lanzhu: Hmmph! Acting like a brat, no wonder Atma prefers learning from me.

Zafira glares at Lanzhu, who just glares back. Much to Violet’s disappointment. Before Violet could give a remark,

Atma: Wait Lanzhu. Didn’t you say-

Girl in White: Mama! Papa

Girl’s Mama & Papa: Murni!

Murni called to the man and woman who run towards her, before hugging her tightly.

Murni’s Papa: I’m so glad you’re safe!!!

Murni’s Mama: I’m never letting you out of my sight again!!

Zafira: …

Little Girl: Look mama!

A little in girl in white attire points at Atma excitedly. Which her mother responds by hurriedly dragging her daughter away, with fear in her eyes.

Murni: He saved me! I told you he’s a good guy!

Murni points at Atma, who waved back.

Atma: Hi!

Murni’s Mama: So…you saved my daughter…I-

Zafira: I’m going on a walk. With Atma.

Zafira interrupts as she speaks to Violet.

Zafira: See you later.

Before Violet could reply, Zafira quickly drags an excited Atma away. Leaving a concerned Violet, a confused Murni and her family, and Lanzhu.

Atma: Yes, I get to hang out with you!

Zafira on the other hand,

Zafira: (thoughts) Those opportunistic filth. They think lesser of Atma, until Atma saved someone they cared about. And now they pretend to be grateful?

Zafira: Don’t get involve with people like that.

Atma: Huh? Why?

Zafira: It’s for your best.

Atma: …Zafira.

Zafira: What.

Atma: Are you okay?

Location: Police Meeting Room.

Police Officer 1: Any progress on the interrogation?

Police Officer 2: The other suspects are still unconscious, so we’re only able to interrogate one for now.

Chief Sarj: It’s all that freak’s fault! He took matters into his own hands, and put our suspects into coma! And that remaining suspect is no use! Spouting nonsense like “Ghost Motorcycle”, pah!

Dark skinned woman: Shouldn’t we look into this motorcycle?

Chief Sarj: Sure, let’s send the police force to hunt for a talking motorcycle. While we’re at that, why not call your friend Thomas for help?

Police Officer 3: Isn’t Thomas a locomotive?

Police Chief: Enough! We have no time to bother about talking motorcycles.

Devi: But Sir-

Higher Chief: Because of some…circumstances, we can’t do anything about this so-called hero. For now.  But all of you here should keep a close eye on that “hero”. That thing is sure to cause even more trouble in the future. Trouble that not even the Spark and Wang family can overlook.

Chief Sarj: Heh.

Devi: What?! But Sir-

Higher Chief: Remember. Just observe that “hero” now. Don’t take any actions yet. Meeting dismissed!

Devi: (thoughts)…But we barely got anything done…

Soon, every police officer exits the room. Talking among themselves. While Devi walked to her quarters, before slumping in her seat.

Devi: (thoughts) Urgh! Why are men so stubborn? I barely get my own words in. Why are we wasting time trying to figure out how to arrest a kid when we could be searching clues about these monsters?!!

Devi let out a long sigh.

Devi: (thoughts) Of course I know motorcycles don’t talk. But it’s pretty obvious that someone is supplying the thugs with these…things that transforms people into monsters.

And that person uses a motorcycle. A big, grey motorcycle. We should be focusing on searching this motorcycle. Thus, narrowing down who’s the supplier. But they don’t even consider it…

…Well, looks like I have to take matters into my own hands…

To be continued…