The Starlight Sentinels

By J. Gray Dingler

The Starlight Sentinels goes beyond The Watchmen’s question of "Who would want to be a superhero?" by asking "Who would want to be a superhero if being a superhero was just another job people needed doing?" The Starlight Sentinels, that’s who!

They’re not your traditional superhero team, and they’re not the other guys either, nor are they the grizzled antihero type. Instead, they’re just people who happen to work as superheroes in a world where being a superhero isn’t so much a call to greatness as it is an eccentric career choice and super villains are just another problem that people try not to think about.

Drawing inspiration from films such as Shawn of the Dead and TV series such as the Venture Bros, the Starlight Sentinels was crafted to be an amusing and occasionally action-packed adventure grounded by a diverse cast of humorous but relatable characters. You may laugh at their numerous missteps, but you'll also be cheering for these heroes and heroines hard-earned triumphs as well.

Join this comedic costumed cabal in their debut adventure as they fight crime and battle the forces of evil anytime they’re not stuck filling out forms for the police, trying to appease their overbearing corporate sponsor, struggling to gain recognition from an apathetic public, or arguing over whose turn it is to do the shopping in this hilarious tongue-in-cheek tale that takes on all things superhero!

• Language: English
• Publisher: J. Gray Dingler
• Release date: Jun 17, 2016
• ISBN: 9780975453926

J. Gray Dingler

In the tail end of my teen years, I ventured into writing fiction and self-publishing. After that was a spectacular failure, I took a scant ten years off to cry about it. Now that modern technology has made failing creatively a lot more affordable and accessible, I've decided to try again.

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The Starlight Sentinels

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2015 - J. Gray Dingler.

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review or scholarly journal.

Gray Jay Books logo property of J. Gray Dingler.

Across The Universe

Words and Music by John Lennon and Paul McCartney

Copyright (c) 1968, 1970 Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Copyright Renewed

All Rights Administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, 424 Church Street, Suite 1200, Nashville, TN 37219

International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved

Reprinted by Permission of Hal Leonard Corporation

ISBN 978-0-9754539-2-6

Published by: Gray Jay Books

http://www.grayjaybooks.com/

[e-mail]

Cover Design by: JCaleb Design

http://www.jcalebdesign.com/

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Dedicated to my mother. Here’s hoping this goes better than the last time we tried this.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Epilogue

Prologue 

First Impressions

Car thirty-two reporting in, we’re first on the scene, requesting backup.

We’re still short on units. I can’t say when back-up will be available.

Dammit… The officer set the radio down and looked over at his partner, who was staring out the window. Come on, let’s go.

It looks like a war zone out there, she said.

Yeah, well, it’s a war zone we need to check out. The man drew his gun and exited the car, his partner following his lead.

What the hell happened here? she said as she surveyed the damage.

Keep calm and stay focused. Despite his instructions, the officer shared his partner’s curiosity. The humble old brick building before them looked like a former battleground. There were bullet holes plastered across the three big garage doors that lined the front of the building, a massive gaping hole on the second floor between windows, and scattered bricks littering the street everywhere they looked.

You… you think this is the bomb they were talking about? she asked. The one the Lynch Man warned people about?

That’s what I was thinking, but none of the wreckage looks burnt, he observed, noting none of the debris on the ground appeared so much as even singed. It looks more like someone hit this place with a wrecking ball.

Check this out. She motioned to a humvee parked outside the building. The windshield had been thoroughly cracked and a long dent ran down the grill, as if the vehicle had run head first into a streetlight. There was also a set of deep scratches across the hood. It is me, or do those look like claw marks?

It’s just some scratches. Don’t—

And what about this? She pointed to a large dent on the other side of the hood.

What about it?

Look at it, someone’s fist did that.

It’s not—

You can see the outline of their knuckles, she insisted. Somebody punched a damn car.

Let’s just check the place over and get out of here, he said as he moved away from the humvee. We’ve got enough to keep us busy tonight as it is.

Do you even know what this place is? she asked as they approached the building. This is like their base. Do you have any idea what these people do here?

Do you? he scoffed. Because I think you’re— The officer stopped as his foot knocked against something small and metallic.

Look at this. She motioned to several rifle casings littering the ground in front of them. Bending down, she removed a lone shotgun shell lying amongst the rifle casings.

More signs of a shooting. Keep quiet and stay behind me. The shooter might still be in the area. Moving into the building’s garage, the pair found more rifle casings and a small trail of blood leading into a corner. No sign of who was bleeding though.

Leaving the garage, the pair emerged into what seemed to be a recently ravaged living room. There were bullet holes on several parts of the walls, including what looked like a few well-placed shots in the center of a TV screen. A metal spiral staircase running into the ceiling marked the center of the area and just beyond that they could see some kind of meeting area.

There. He gestured to a small door on the sidewall. Check that, I’ll take this. She nodded and moved to the door while he examined more rifle casings scattered across the floor. Looking closely, he found actual bullets lying amongst the casings. They had become deformed from impact, but against what he wasn’t sure.

Looking ahead, the officer spotted a rifle lying on the ground near the table. He reached for the weapon and pulled back only half a gun. Checking closely, he discovered something had sliced the rifle’s barrel clean off.

That door just leads into an alley, nothing strange out there, whispered the officer as she grew close to her partner. But there’s another fist-shaped dent on the door itself, like someone was punching anything metal.

Not just punching. He held up the two rifle halves.

What the hell happened to that? she asked.

Got me. But it’s empty. He set the rifle halves down and looked up at the spiral staircase. Come on. The pair started moving upstairs, noting an odd break in the handrail where it looked like something had cut through it. Upstairs, the pair found themselves in a long hall with numerous doors lining each side.

Look at this, she motioned to her partner as she approached the massive opening in the wall. It was big enough for them to fit through with ease and the pair could see the street just below.

Nothing’s burnt, he noted as he examined the area. Nothing but the wall is even wrecked.

Maybe it was like some Indiana Jones trap?

What?

You know, like a boulder came out of the ceiling, rolled down the hall and broke through this wall?

Are… are you serious?

Well how do you explain it? she retorted. I mean look. She pointed to the other end of the hall. There’s a ladder leading up to the ceiling; there’s gotta be something up there.

It probably just leads to the roof, he reasoned. Check the doors, I’ll check up there. Then we can get out of here.

If something comes out of the ceiling, just remember, I told you so. He ignored his partner and started climbing the ladder. At the top was a large hatch that had to be slid open. As he suspected, the ladder just led onto the roof. What he hadn’t anticipated was a strange vehicle sitting on the roof like it belonged there.

What the hell… The vessel looked like a small airplane fuselage with a big window in the front and large protrusions that curved backwards until they formed an almost complete circle. They didn’t look like wings, and the ends of them were fitted with massive spheres, their function completely lost on the man.

Nothing but bedrooms and one bathroom down there, she said as she climbed onto the roof. So let’s get outta… The woman’s jaw dropped. Holy shit…

It’s… it’s… I don’t even know what this is…

It’s like a spaceship or something, she said.

No, it can’t—

You just said you don’t know what it is.

There’s no way—

What the hell is going on here? The pair spun around and found their guns trained on a short older man in an expensive suit. He had greased back hair, a cigarette in his mouth, his hands in the air and an annoyed expression on his face. Oh, it’s just the police. The man lowered his hands.

Stay where you are! ordered the officer. This is a crime scene, what are you doing here?

The man groaned loudly in response. I own this building, announced the older man. And you’re too late.

What? asked the officer.

It’s all over, said the man as he took a drag from his cigarette. Why don’t you just go home?

The officer grimaced at the man, then reached for his handcuffs. All right, I don’t know who you think you are, but we’re taking you in for questioning.

Questioning? You can’t be— The officer managed to grab the man’s wrists and forced them together quite easily; he didn’t even seem to resist. Oh, oh, this is just great. You have no idea what you just did, said the older man. Just you wait.

You can tell us all about it back at the station.

How original. The pair escorted the older man in the suit back through the otherwise eerily quiet building. Between the damage and the silence, it felt like they were moving through a tomb that had been recently looted. As they reached the street, the man in the suit started chuckling.

Something funny? asked the officer.

It’s just… you have no idea how fired you both are, smirked the man.

Save it, said the officer. You can tell us all about it when—

Somebody’s coming, informed the second officer. Right towards us.

Back to the car, he said. We’ll use it for cover.

They’re back already, said the man. You two are going to have a lot of explaining to do.

Quiet! he ordered as he forced the man into cover behind the car.

Explain to who? she asked as lights started shining on their position.

Why don’t you ask them yourselves? suggested the man.

Keep him quiet and keep down, the first officer ordered the second. I’ll tell these people they can’t stop here. The officer gripped his gun and leaned over the front of his car. The blinding lights made it almost impossible to see much, other than something was moving closer.

Stay where you are! he ordered. This is a crime scene and—

The officer suddenly found it hard to speak. The bright lights made what was approaching appear as only outlines, but those outlines baffled him. The first seemed to be someone in tactical gear, possibly even another officer. To the right of them was someone shorter, an odd couple of bumps on the top of his head. Next was an even shorter figure whose head was hidden in a hood. And the last person appeared to have horns sticking out of their head, claws on their hands, and something else protruding from their back.

Just… just stay where you are. This… The man watched in shock as a fifth figure dropped in from the sky, landing to the left of the others without a word. They appeared taller than the others and seemed to be wearing a cape. Studying the lineup, the officer was stunned to see a sixth figure suddenly standing on the far right. He could swear they just appeared out of nowhere. It looked like a young girl with long hair and a skirt, waving at him, which felt oddly unsettling.

What… what hell is going on? he asked as he ducked behind the car.

Oh, now you want to talk? noted the man in a certain smug tone.

For the love of God, yes! she announced.

You sure you don’t want to take me back to the station first? teased the man, prompting the first officer to grab him by the collar.

Who are those people? Who are you? What happened here? What is this place? Just what the hell is going on today?

That’s a lot of questions, noted the man. I’d have to back up about six months to even start unpacking everything you just asked me.

* * *

Her heart was in her throat as she looked at the door. A crude sign taped to it said to knock, but she couldn’t find the nerve to do it; her palms were sweating from just trying to make a fist. Was she really going to go through with this? She had certainly driven long enough to get here, but now that she had arrived she just felt like leaving, but that sign inviting her to knock felt almost like a challenge.

The girl swung her arm and pounded on the door with such force her fist became embedded in the metal. Hastily pulling her hand back, the girl couldn’t help staring at the dent in the door that resembled her knuckles. She had a sudden urge to flee, but then thought it wasn’t right for her to leave after breaking something. Before she could decide on a course of action, the door swung open.

A tall man with a small scar above his right eye looked down at the short pale girl and sighed. He was dressed in black and painted on his jacket was a series of red marks swirling around the center of his chest. He also wore a long black cape with a matching bright red trim. His eyes were strange, appearing both brown and green at the same time without being a mix of the two colors. Looking at his face, the girl realized she had been silently staring at the man for a few seconds now.

Are you even old enough to drink? he asked, sounding disappointed.

I’m not—

Trying to buy alcohol while underage is foolish enough without coming here to do it.

I… I came here for the tryouts.

The man’s face immediately lit up. You did? The girl nodded at him. Well please, come right in. The man motioned for the girl to enter. I’m sorry for the rudeness, this building used to be a bar before we moved in and all day we’ve had people coming by, hoping it had reopened.

This was a bar? asked the girl. I thought it looked like a firehouse. I mean with the big garage doors out front and the red brick walls.

Well it was, said the man. It was a firehouse decades ago. It was later converted into a museum for firefighters, then that moved and someone opened a bar here called ‘The Firehouse.’ Then that closed and we moved in. There’s a lot of history in this building’s walls. Literally, the crew that did the remodeling said they were fishing out beer bottles and ashtrays from the strangest places for nearly a week.

The girl detected the lingering aroma of fresh paint from the metal spiral staircase sitting in the center of the room and the walls were completely spotless. The entire space felt like a blank canvas, and the half-opened boxes lying about were the brushes, ready to make their mark on the building.

We’re still getting set up, explained the man. Yesterday we had to bring the mattresses for our rooms in through the roof because the only way to get from the first floor to the second is the stairwell here. The girl looked at the narrow opening in the ceiling that the stairs spiraled up through. And the plumber wasn’t happy having to tote things up there for the bathroom.

Walking past the staircase, the girl spotted a large table with chairs, one of which was occupied. There she saw a teenage boy with dirty blond hair and light brown skin. Strapped to the top of his head was a pair of thick goggles and across his chest a tight green shirt with a large gold ‘A’ painted on the front. The boy casually leaned back in his chair, his dark green eyes glued to his phone.

Did you tell them we’re not hiring waiters or bartenders? mumbled the boy without looking up.

Actually, we have a guest. Pulling himself away from his phone, the boy noticed the girl standing beside the man.

Uh… he quickly pocketed his phone and sat up while the man just rolled his eyes.

This is—

Kid Astounding! The boy sprung out of his seat in a flash and rushed up to meet the girl. But you can call me Eric. Eric Proudfoot.

I’m Count Nutus, introduced the man.

Newt-us? repeated the girl.

It’s Latin. You can just call me Daryl if you prefer, he explained. And we’re the Starlight Sentinels!

He’s really proud of the name he gave us, said Eric.

What’s your name, young lady? asked Daryl.

Olivia Rivera, answered the girl.

Well, Olivia, have a seat, said Daryl. So, Olivia, I presume you have a code name as well? The girl mumbled something inaudible. What?

Puffin, she stated more clearly.

Puffin? repeated Eric.

Yeah, I didn’t know I had to pick an actual code name when I got my license. All the cool names like Raven or Crow were already taken. Then I remembered puffins are birds that can fly and swim and I thought they were kinda cool but… I probably should have thought it out more.

Did you consider Corvus as a name? asked Daryl.

Corvus?

It’s the genus of birds that ravens and crows belong to.

Really? Wish you were there when I picked my name. Corvus sounds much better.

I think Puffin sounds fine, assured Eric.

May I see your credentials? asked Daryl.

Sure. Olivia removed a folded sheet of paper from her pocket and handed it to Daryl.

Your powers are mild super strength and selective invulnerability.

Selective invulnerability? asked Eric.

That generally means someone is invulnerable to the side effects of their own super strength, explained Daryl. Like when they punch through walls and don’t break the bones in their hand.

Olivia flinched slightly upon hearing that. Yeah… the people who tested me said my superpower probably won’t protect me from anything other than my own strength. That’s why I bought this. Olivia tugged on the hooded jacket she was wearing. Supposed to be bulletproof. At least that’s what the ad said.

That’s a smart precaution, said Daryl. I’ve been trying to persuade Eric to wear some protective clothing for nearly a year now.

I told you, I don’t like the weight and bulk those things add.

And I told you, the difference is negligible compared to the amount of protection it would add.

Yeah, for you maybe, you can defy gravity. And she’s got ‘mild’ super strength. I’ve only got ‘minor’ super strength. That ‘negligible’ difference is a lot bigger for me.

You have super strength? asked Olivia.

Yep, and super agility. Eric placed his hands on the table and flipped into a handstand with a quick acrobatic maneuver, then fell forward into a crouch on the center of the table.

Eric, what did I say about using the furniture for gymnastics? Eric sighed and returned to his seat. Anyway, your power’s origins are listed as mythical-curse, could you tell us a little more about that?

Uh, I guess, said Olivia. It’s kind of a strange story though.

These things usually are, said Daryl with a slight smile.

"Last December, I was walking home and decided to go through the park. While I was walking, I noticed this homeless person resting on a park bench. He had worn out clothes and a long beard with ice stuck in it. His face was covered in grease and dirt.

"It was then I noticed he was staring at me. I tried to ignore him, but I could just feel him peering into me. I turned my head to see if he was still watching me and then suddenly our eyes locked. Those eyes… one sickly green and the other muddy brown. They were almost… hypnotic.

"Suddenly he called to me. He pleaded for me not leave, saying that he was in agony as he pulled himself off the bench and started limping towards me, begging for help. I quickly dug through my pockets and found some money to offer him, but then he stopped and became quiet.

"I told him to just take the money, but he kept looking at me, almost like he didn’t know what to do with it. Then he leaned in close and whispered ‘Is that all there is to you my child?’

"I stood there, terrified. His voice sounded completely different from when he called for help. I felt this horrible sense of dread in the pit of my stomach as he continued to stare at me. Before I knew it, he was reaching his hand out to touch me. I wanted to run or scream or anything, but… I couldn’t. My entire body felt numb. Then he grabbed my hand and said ‘Let it be that what’s within you encompasses all of you.’

Feeling his cold, coarse skin touching me was all I could take. I used my free arm to pull my hand out of his grip and fell backwards onto the snow. I was about to run, but when I looked up, he was gone.

Daryl and Eric stared at Olivia in disbelief. Go on… said Daryl in a quiet voice.

Well, I reported what happened to the police, but they never found him. I haven’t seen him since that day. I told the Order’s magic specialists before I took my exam, but even they didn’t seem to know much about him.

Wow, awed Eric. That is so much cooler than how I got my powers.

What happened to you? asked Olivia.

When I was eight, my dad and I went to some market research thing to test some company’s new vitamins for kids.

And it gave people superpowers?

No, only me. Apparently it mutated my DNA or something, and nobody knows why just me. Pretty lame, huh?

I’m a gravity channeler, said Daryl.

So, you’re like telepathic? asked Olivia.

No, I’m not psychic.

It’s more like magic, said Eric.

I’m not magic.

I didn’t say you were; I said like magic.

It’s not like magic either—

Oh whatever. You always do this. Eric turned to Olivia. He can fly and levitate things, that’s all you need to know.

I tutored under a master channeler for years so I could visit one of the Earth’s akashic points to unlock my true potential, corrected Daryl.

Akashic point? asked Olivia.

Sanctuaries that focus natural forces of the Earth. With intense training, certain individuals can use them to gain a degree of awareness and control over fundamental elements of the planet. In my case, gravity itself.

In other words, magic caves. Daryl shot Eric a dirty look.

So, you two are like a father and son team?

No, we’re not related, said Daryl. We just work together.

Yeah, my dad’s not even a hero, he works in construction, said Eric.

So you’re like his sidekick?

Eric’s smile immediately morphed into a scowl. I’m nobody’s sidekick! I’ve worked as a solo hero since I was eleven. I only teamed up with Daryl last year, and it wasn’t my idea. I’m his teammate, not his sidekick. He’s the one who used to be a sidekick.

You were his sidekick? Olivia asked Daryl.

No, I used to work under Taurus Borealis in El Paso. That was before I was licensed to operate independently. Daryl blushed. Enough about us. How long have you been a superhero?

Well, um… Olivia fidgeted in her seat slightly as she considered the question. I guess since I passed the test to become one.

Daryl looked back at the paper he was holding. This was dated two weeks ago, and you’re rated as a support-only hero. Do you not have any actual experience?

Other than the two weeks of training I got from the Order? No.

We can help you get started. Me and Daryl have almost a decade’s worth of experience between us, boasted Eric.

How old are you? asked Daryl, ignoring Eric’s comment.

I’m eighteen, said Olivia, sounding defensive. I’m just short.

I’m fifteen, but I’ll be sixteen in September, said Eric. He’s like forty.

I’m thirty-four! snapped Daryl.

Close enough, shrugged Eric.

Anyway, Olivia, are you still in high school?

No.

You graduated?

Yeah, last year.

I’m still in high school, said Eric. But I only go three days a week.

Why did you decide to become a superhero? asked Daryl.

I want to help people, answered Olivia, sounding uncertain.

And you thought this was the best way to do that?

Well… yeah. I mean…

Can I talk to you for a moment, alone? Eric tugged on Daryl’s cape.

Excuse me. Daryl followed Eric into the small kitchen bordering the living room.

What are you doing? asked Eric quietly.

I’m interviewing her, answered a confused Daryl.

You’re badgering her. Do you not like her or something?

If we’re going to work with this person, it’s important to learn as much about her as possible. I’m not sure she’s qualified to be on our team.

Why not? She’s licensed, she’s got super strength, and plus… Eric looked over at Olivia. She’s cute. I love glasses with short dark hair.

She has no experience, she’s uncertain, and… Daryl looked at Olivia. Her costume is fairly thoughtless. It’s just a black hoodie with matching jeans. And is she wearing cowboy boots?

Costume? Come on Daryl, not everyone feels like spending a thousand bucks on a tailor like you did.

I didn’t spend that much! I just paid someone to paint my logo on some biker armor. Besides, a strong personal image reflects professionalism, and that instills confidence in the people we help.

Yeah, well I hope you saved the receipt for that thing. First big fight and that outfit will be full of holes. This is why I just get off-the-rack wetsuits, cut them in half and stencil A’s on the chest. Oh, and capes are a pain in the ass.

Are you finished? asked Daryl.

Yeah, I’m done. Go back to complaining about how unfit this girl is for our team, retorted Eric.

I just don’t think we should settle on the first person we meet.

She’s the only person who showed up today.

It’s still early.

It’s three in the afternoon! proclaimed Eric. Look, if not her, then who? A loud knocking came from the front door.

Your turn, smiled Daryl.

Don’t get your hopes up. It’s probably someone else looking forward to the bar’s grand reopening. Eric headed for the door. Be right back, he said as he passed Olivia.

If it’s the mail, check to see if they have the book I ordered, said Daryl.

It’s been a month. Just accept it got lost and get a refund already. Eric opened the door. The bar isn’t reopening today, or ever. Eric slammed the door shut only for someone to push it back open.

I didn’t come here looking for a bar. A tall black woman walked into the room. This where I go to join the Starlight Sentinels? The woman was clad in dark clothes: a thick vest lined with pockets, a helmet, sunglasses, a belt lined with pouches and a pair of black gym bags that hung from her incredibly toned arms.

This is, said Daryl. Do you mind telling us who you are?

Sure. The woman set the bags on the floor and removed her sunglasses and helmet, revealing a bundle of dreadlocks pulled into a spiky bun. She smiled and offered Daryl her hand. I’m Sam.

Sam? asked Daryl as he shook her hand, noting her strong grip.

Short for Samantha, she answered.

I’m Daryl. This is—

Kid Astounding, finished Eric. And we’re kinda already interviewing someone here. So why don’t you come back later?

Nonsense. We can talk to both of you. Just take a seat. Daryl motioned to the chair next to Olivia. This is another applicant, Olivia Rivera.

Hey there. Sam shook Olivia’s hand.

Hello, greeted Olivia.

So, what exactly are your superpowers? asked Eric.

I don’t have ‘superpowers’, but I served in the Army for a little over seven years, stated Sam.

That’s great, but we can only hire licensed heroes. Sam pulled a piece of paper from her vest pocket and unfolded it on the table.

You’re certified to operate as a superhero, but with the stipulation that you work with a team for two years before working independently, read Daryl.

Yeah, they said I did well enough on that weird test to be on my own but they still wanted me to be on a team until I had more experience.

So you don’t have any experience? asked Eric.

A little. I worked with a duo named Push and Pull for about a month in Kokomo. Couple of lightweights who spent more time making appearances at public schools than responding to actual crimes. They told me it wasn’t working out and let me go.

Why were you let go? asked Daryl.

I don’t know. Nothing really happened when I was there, other than we broke up a couple of bar fights and some domestic disturbances. They said I just wasn’t right for their team and it was nothing personal. I think they just didn’t like having a scary black woman around. My handle probably didn’t help with that either.

G.I. Genocide? Daryl read off the paper.

Catchy, isn’t it?

Creepy if you ask me, said Eric.

It’s just to scare the bad guys. I don’t bite, assured Sam.

You just use guns and bombs. That’s all, snorted Eric.

I don’t have anything that uses bullets or explosives.

You don’t have powers, you don’t use guns. What exactly do you do?

This kid always this mouthy or does he not like me? Sam asked Daryl.

Hey! Show some respect! barked Eric.

How ‘bout you lead by example, kid?

How ‘bout you—

Eric, calm down, ordered Daryl.

But she—

Just don’t. Daryl turned back towards Sam. Other than your Army experience, do you possess any other useful skills?

Well, I took up competitive knife throwing after I left the Army. I have some basic first aid training and I can do simple stuff like compresses and tourniquets. In addition to knives, I carry pepper spray, a taser, rope, some basic tools, bunch of other odds and ends. I also keep myself in top shape.

Being fit and having gadgets doesn’t make you a hero, mumbled Eric.

Well apparently it does because I’m a fully licensed superhero. I was already in one D-List superhero team and I got a callback when I auditioned for the Chicago Cavaliers.

You tried out for the Cavaliers? asked a surprised Daryl.

Yeah. Me, some fire guy in a speedo and this butch woman who could fly all got callbacks. We served with them as part of the team for about a week, like an extended audition, but they went with the butch woman.

She was butcher than you?

Eric! snapped Daryl.

What’s your problem with me kid? asked Sam.

I just don’t think you’re going to be much help against super villains.

What, and you are? What makes you so special?

The fact that I have actual superpowers!

Okay, that’s enough, interjected Daryl.

You’re like half my size, scoffed Sam. Powers or not, I’m tougher than you. Eric laid his elbow on the table and gestured that he wanted to arm wrestle.

Just stop, both of you.

Stay out of this Daryl, insisted Eric.

Yeah, let me take this brat to school. Sam placed her arm on the table and tightly gripped Eric’s hand. Daryl sighed as both Sam and Eric stared each other down.

Somebody count us down, ordered Sam.

This is ridiculous, no one—

Three-two-one! Eric quickly jerked Sam’s arm halfway towards the table before it stopped suddenly. The pair grunted as they tried to overpower each other. Gradually, Eric’s arm moved back towards the starting position, then beyond it. The boy struggled with his all his might, only to watch Sam pin his arm to the table.

Ha! Told ya! I don’t need no powers. Eric glared at Sam. You are freakishly strong for your size though.

Well, now that you two are done—

Left hand this time. Eric put his left arm on the table.

You really think that’s going to help? giggled Sam.

I’m ambidextrous.

Seriously, enough arm wrestling Eric.

I don’t mind, this is fun.

Daryl sighed. All right, go ahead. Sam placed her left arm on the table.

I’ll count this time, said Sam. One, two, three! Sam quickly forced Eric’s hand towards the table and, within seconds, pinned his arm again.

Ow! What the hell? grumbled Eric as he rubbed his hand.

I’m left-handed. Eric shot Sam another angry look.

Finished? Daryl turned towards Olivia. I’m sorry about all that.

It’s okay.

So what are the limits of your super strength? asked Daryl.

It’s hard to say exactly. I didn’t develop actual super strength until recently, and it kind of varies—

Olivia versus Sam! Eric blurted out.

What? asked Daryl.

They should arm wrestle each other. Daryl stared at Eric in disbelief.

What is with you today? asked Daryl.

You want to know how strong Olivia is? This is the perfect way to find out.

Really? This is the perfect way? Arm wrestling?

Hey, it’s fine by me, said Sam as she stretched her arms. I’m enjoying this a lot more than most job interviews.

Are you okay with this?

I guess it’s all right. Olivia turned to Sam and reluctantly put her arm on the table.

You sure about this? Sam asked Olivia. You’re even smaller than the kid here.

I’m freakishly strong for my size as well, boasted Olivia.

I can’t believe you’ve turned our tryouts into an arm wrestling competition, Daryl told Eric.

Get ready, announced Eric. Three, two, one! Sam and Olivia’s arms remained deadlocked with each other for several seconds, only for Sam to overpower Olivia and pin her hand to the table.

Three for three! Sam turned to Daryl. Okay, you and me now.

I forfeit, you win, let’s move on, answered Daryl.

Wait, let me try again, pleaded Olivia. I wasn’t ready.

Wasn’t ready? said Sam. Come on, don’t make excuses.

I’m serious, I kinda have to work up to it.

Work up to it? This is pitiful. Olivia scowled at Sam, then put her hand back on the table.

Okay, I can do this all day. Sam gripped Olivia’s hand again. Mind if I count this time?

Go head, spoke Olivia in a cold voice.

One, two, three! Sam groaned and grunted as she pulled with all her might, but Olivia’s hand didn’t move an inch. Briefly glancing at the small girl in black, Sam saw Olivia calmly staring at her.

Are you even trying? Olivia quickly slammed Sam’s hand against the table in a single sudden move. Dammit! Sam pulled her hand away in a hurry. Jesus, that hurt!

Oh God! I’m sorry! exclaimed a horrified Olivia. Are you okay?

Yeah, just fine you idiot, growled Sam as she rubbed her hand.

I’m so sorry! I… I guess I don’t know my own strength.

Ya think?

See, this is what I’m talking about. How do you expect her to hold up against super villains without some kind of edge? asked Eric.

You and I aren’t invulnerable either, retorted Daryl.

Yes, but our powers still give us an edge she doesn’t have.

Sam proved she’s stronger than you. Besides, self-control is just as important and Olivia just said she doesn’t know her own strength yet.

Nobody knows their powers’ limits after they first get them, insisted Eric. Speaking of limits, the only reason Sam’s stronger than me right now is because I’m still young. I’m only a teenager and I’m already almost as strong as her.

Olivia noticed a flashing light out of the corner of her eye. Turning away from the argument, she spotted a large blinking icon on a computer screen seated on a smaller table tucked away in the corner.

Um… excuse me, she said. Um… there’s… you need to…

Hey! Daryl and Eric stopped arguing and looked at Sam. She wants to say something. Sam pointed at Olivia.

I think there’s something wrong with your computer. Olivia pointed at the flashing screen. Daryl and Eric looked at the computer, then both leapt out of their chairs and rushed to the machine.

I thought you set up the alarm for this thing? asked Eric.

I did! Daryl sat down in front of the computer and started typing.

Well we didn’t hear it, so clearly you messed up.

Don’t blame me, it worked earlier today when I tested it. I don’t know what its problem is.

What’s going on? asked Sam.

If I’m reading this right, there’s some kind of… Daryl paused and studied the screen, …thing, running around the south side of the city.

Thing? That a technical term I need to learn? quipped Sam.

The TSA found something stowing away on a plane. It ran off after being confronted.

What ran off? A wild animal? asked Olivia.

The description mentions it having claws and… a cloak.

So… a wild animal in a cloak? suggested Sam.

I don’t know, all the witness reports claim they didn’t get a good look at this thing, said Daryl. Whatever it is, it was just spotted in Queensgate, hiding in a warehouse before fleeing.

Which one? asked Eric. There’s dozens of warehouses in Queensgate.

One near the train yard, which is where Captain Washington wants us to start our search. Daryl stood up. We’ll have to finish interviewing you both when we get back.

Wait, why not just bring them with us? suggested Eric.

We can’t do that.

It can be part of the interview. You’re both okay with that, right?

Yeah, I’m up for a wild goose chase, shrugged Sam.

If you want me to come, sure, spoke a timid Olivia.

You see, it’ll be like on-the-job training, reasoned Eric.

How are we all going to get there? asked Daryl. My motorcycle can only carry two people and you don’t have a car.

I thought you can fly? asked Olivia.

Not nearly as fast as I can drive, and trying to carry someone just slows me down even more. Let alone three people.

Wait, you can fly? asked Sam.

One of you must have a car, right? asked Eric.

I took a cab here, answered Sam.

I came in my car, said Olivia. Although my guitar and my luggage are in the backseat right now.

Okay, you and Sam take your motorcycle, Eric said to Daryl. I’ll ride with Olivia as she follows you there.

An odd smile crept across Daryl’s face as he looked out over the team of heroes lined up before him. Sentinels mobilize! Daryl’s proclamation was followed by an awkward silence, which was broken by Sam laughing.

What was that? she chuckled.

It just seemed like the right moment. Daryl blushed.

You said you weren’t going to do that, groaned Eric.

Let’s just go. Come on Sam.

Autobots, roll out! exclaimed Eric in a sarcastic manner as Daryl led Sam to the garage.

Lemme ask you something, Sam said to Daryl. You’re the one in charge around here, right?

Technically, I’m the leader of the Starlight Sentinels.

Technically?

I try to treat Eric like an equal and avoid dictating to him. As you can see, he’s already pretty independent for his age.

Yeah, but you could fire him, right? Daryl stopped in place and turned to Sam. Technically?

I’m really sorry for the way Eric acted. He’s a good kid and actually a more experienced hero than me. He just lets it go to his head sometimes.

Uh-huh, I hear ya. But, if you wanted to kick him off the team, you can, right?

I’m not going to do that. Look, Eric’s at that point in a young person’s life where he thinks he’s got everything figured out and doesn’t realize he still has a lot of growing up to do. It’s annoying, but he’ll learn.

Daryl hit a button that opened the garage doors, revealing a sleek black convertible parked outside, and Eric sliding across its hood.

You sure about that? asked Sam as Eric leapt over the car door and landed in the seat next to Olivia.

Chapter One 

Snipe Hunt

Daryl slowed his bike to a stop in front of a sprawling sea of railroad tracks littered with dozens upon dozens of boxcars. The veritable gallery of graffiti on the cars coupled with the slight smell of rust in the air made this place look more like a graveyard for trains than an active hub.

Finally, moaned Sam. Are the roads in the city designed so you hit every possible red light or are we just that lucky?

Just lucky I guess, mumbled Daryl as he removed his helmet. Well, we better get started. Where’s Olivia’s car?

Probably trapped in another time zone thanks to a damn red light.

Here they come. Daryl approached Olivia’s car as it slowed to a stop.

I’m sorry, Olivia said to Daryl. We—

We can’t get around because the chief of police hates us too much to sign off on us using sirens and lights for our vehicles, groused Eric.

Washington said whatever the TSA found might try to get out of town by train, so we’re to investigate for any unusual activity, said Daryl. You two go to the control tower, ask the yard master if they saw anything and if any trains are leaving here in the immediate future. After that, you can help Sam and I search the area.

Got it. Race ya! Eric took off for the tower in a dash, leaving Olivia to follow far behind in the boy’s footsteps.

I’ll do a fly over to get a bird’s eye view while you search the area on foot. Understand? asked Daryl.

Yeah. We’re not sure what we’re looking for, and we don’t know where it is. So we’ll wander around in the hope that we both find it and that it doesn’t want to kill us. That about the size of things? asked Sam.

Not how I would’ve worded it, but yes, said Daryl. Do you have a problem with that?

No, but this does sound a lot like a snipe hunt, noted Sam. I just heard that kid say the chief of police hates you guys and looking at this place I’m getting a vibe that we’re just being given something to do.

Daryl sighed. Our relationship with the police could be… better. But the Starlight Sentinels work in cooperation with them. So dead end or not we’ve got a job to do.

A’ight, you’re the boss. Let’s go to work.

I’ll be right above you the whole time. If anything happens, just yell. Daryl quickly leapt into the air, seamlessly floating right into the sky.

Holy shit, awed Sam as she watched Daryl’s cape flutter in the wind before disappearing from view. He really can fly. Turning her awestruck gaze back towards the ground, Sam looked at the endless lines of boxcars stretched out in front of her and sighed. This is gonna take all day.

Searching the yard proved as tedious as Sam suspected. She checked unlocked boxcars, investigated engines, looked under trains, and without fail found nothing of interest. After a while, Sam reasoned anything hiding here probably would have caught tetanus just from being around so much rusted metal. During a check of another trio of boxcars, Sam tried to recall when her own last tetanus shot was. Before long, Sam’s mind was wandering so much she almost didn’t hear someone calling her name.

Sam! Looking up Sam saw Daryl, descending gently towards her. Have you found anything?

Whole lotta nothing. Daryl landed softly on his feet. You?

I haven’t seen anything unusual.

Telling ya, snipe hunt.

Eric called a little a while ago. The yardmaster said he hasn’t seen anything either, but there are a couple of trains leaving here soon. We should probably check them out before that happens.

If you say so. Where they at?

One is near the edge of the yard, the other just past this track. Daryl pointed to the train behind Sam. I’ll check the one at the end of the yard, then head back to your location.

Got it. Sam wasted no time squeezing through an opening between a couple of fuel cars and found her target, a large blue and yellow train attached to yet another long string of freight cars. After a quick but thorough inspection of the engine, including a brief explanation to the conductor inside, Sam started surveying the rest of the vehicle.

She pulled on every door to confirm it was locked and investigated any open boxcars. Reaching the end of the train, she briefly checked under the last car, then climbed on top of it for a better view. Scanning the area, all she found was more old freight cars as far as the eye could see, their faded graffiti tags the only sign that anyone had ever had any interest in them.

It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, Sam mumbled to herself. You’re gonna love being a superhero. A blaring train whistle sounded and the car Sam was standing on started to move. Still beats driving a cab, I guess.

Sam moved to the edge of the car and hopped down. As the woman approached the next train, a sharp clanking sounded from behind. Looking over her shoulder, Sam saw what looked like a shadow move past one of the open boxcar doors. She turned to check the train in front of her, only to turn back towards the open car behind her.

Eh, why not? Sam spun around and raced to the boxcar as it slowly moved away with the rest of the train. Leaping aboard, Sam removed a flashlight from her belt and investigated the area. The car was empty, just like every car she had checked. She sighed, then made one last sweep with her light.

Having found nothing, Sam turned off her light. She moved to the door, ready to jump off, but stopped when she heard a faint scratching sound. An uneasy feeling crept over Sam as she heard another, louder scratching, this time right above her. Whatever was making it was very close.

Sam aimed her flashlight up at the ceiling and reluctantly switched it on. The light revealed something wearing a cloak somehow pressed flat against the ceiling of the boxcar. Looking closely, Sam noticed whatever this was had dug into the metal roof with long, black claws on the end of its fingers and toes.

Oh my God. The outburst caused the creature to suddenly jerk its head, bringing a pair of eerie orange eyes down upon the terrified woman looking at it. Sam instinctively shifted backwards, reaching for her taser as the creature let go of the ceiling. Sam took aim and pulled the trigger just as the creature pounced. A pair of taser prongs narrowly flew past the creature as it leapt through the open door.

Shit! A loud banging from above signaled the creature was moving on top of the boxcar. Sam quickly headed to the door and found the train was moving much faster now. Looking up, Sam wasn’t sure if she could follow the creature to the top of the train.

This would be a helluva lot easier if I could fly, mumbled Sam. Wait a minute. Sam removed a flare gun from her belt and aimed it out the door. Hope he sees this. Sam pulled the trigger, sending a flare streaking into the sky. After holstering her flare gun, Sam reloaded her taser.

Looking up at the top of the boxcar, Sam realized it was too high for her to jump. Searching for anything she could use as a step, Sam found the edge of the door had a spot for a lock. Carefully she planted her foot on the piece of metal, then tried to push herself up while clinging to the side of the door.

What are you doing? Startled by hearing someone’s voice in her ear, Sam lost her footing and felt herself being pulled to the ground, but it never seemed to reach her. I’ve got you. Sam looked down to see she was floating above the area. Turning her head she found Daryl beside her, his arm wrapped around her waist.

Holy hell, we’re flying! she exclaimed.

I saw your flare. What’s going on? asked Daryl.

I saw it! I saw the snipe! On top of the train! Daryl pulled them further into the air and over the top of the train. There! Sam pointed at a cloaked figure standing on top of the engine. Daryl charged through the air and landed near the creature.

Don’t move! ordered Daryl.

You’ve got nowhere to go! Sam took aim with her taser. The cloaked creature briefly glanced at the pair, then leapt off the train. It soared through the air for a few seconds before landing back in the yard. Goddammit. Sam holstered her taser. Now—

Come on! Daryl wrapped his arm around Sam’s waist.

What are you—ahh! Sam felt herself being dragged high into the air. She looked down at the ground shrinking away beneath her and started clinging to Daryl out of fear of being dropped.

Daryl however kept watching the escaping beast duck and weave between the parked train cars. He moved closer to the ground, following the cloaked figure as best he could, only for the mystery monster to duck under one of the trains and out of view.

Daryl quickly landed where he last saw the escapee and ran over to the boxcar it had disappeared under. But checking beneath it, the man found no signs of the creature. Daryl quickly launched himself back into the air and looked down at the surrounding area, but again saw no clues of where his target had gone. Slowly he floated back towards where Sam was standing.

Looks like I lost it, concluded Daryl. What was that thing?

Back on the ground… mumbled a dazed Sam as she stared at the dirt.

Are you okay?

Sam looked up at Daryl. Sorry, flying thing kinda freaked me out.

What was that?

I don’t know, I didn’t get a good look at it.

Why is it so hard for people to get a good look at this thing?

I only saw it up close for a few seconds but it ain’t human. It’s got big claws sharp enough to dig into metal and these creepy orange eyes.

Did it attack you?

No, it just made a run for it after I spotted it.

I’ll contact the police to let them know their target has made it to the train yard, then call Eric to warn him to be on the lookout. After that I can fly us around the—

Please, I don’t think I’m ready to do that again. Just, let me follow you on the ground for now. I mean, how do you even fly? Are you like, magic, or something?

Daryl groaned. Yes, I’m magic or something, he mumbled as he reached for his phone. Still, if you want to stay on the ground, that’s fine. That might be easier for me; you’re pretty heavy. Daryl started dialing while Sam shot him a dirty look.

Wait, what’d you just say?

Daryl watched as Sam crossed her arms. It’s… probably just all that equipment you’re carrying.

* * *

Olivia emerged from an empty boxcar and reexamined her surroundings. Everywhere she looked were more cars and she didn’t know where to go next. She had been trying to use the graffiti to keep track of where she had been, but looking at the side of the car in front of her she couldn’t be sure if this was the same tag she had seen from earlier or not.

The tag just said ‘peace’, and it looked like it was drawn exactly the same as a tag she saw earlier, but the colors appeared different, like maybe the artist did the same work with different paint on more than one car. It then occurred to Olivia that one person may have painted the same tag on several cars and that her system for navigating the yard was probably flawed. But before she could devise a better one, a loud bang sounded behind her.

Hey there. Spinning around, Olivia found the source of the bang.

Kid Astounding? she said. God, you scared me.

You can just call me Eric. The fancy names are more of a PR thing. Eric hopped off the boxcar and landed next to Olivia. Daryl called me. Sounds like he and Sam spotted what we’re looking for. Some kind of monster with razor sharp claws and a helluva jump.

Really? Are… are they okay?

They’re fine. They found it hiding in a train car before it ran off.

It ran away?

That’s what Daryl told me.

It didn’t attack them?

Sounds like it just ran.

It’s weird it hasn’t tried to fight back yet. It sounds like it’s faster and stronger than us, but it just runs away and hides when people see it.

Yeah, it’s like it’s playing games with us, noted Eric. I’m starting to think things would be easier if it just wanted a fight with us.

You want to fight a monster? asked Olivia.

Better it fights me than someone who can’t fight back. Looking over at Olivia, Eric could see his comment had made her nervous. Well don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

I’ve just never done anything like this before, said Olivia. Have you really been a superhero since you were eleven?

Yeah. I would have started a ten but I just barely missed the score to go solo, so I only could work with traffic cops for my whole first year. Next time I passed, but they still wanted me to be a sidekick because I’m so young. I told them no, so I could only go on patrol with a police officer, which was almost never because the police chief hated the idea of me riding along with cops.

And your parents are okay with all this?

My dad is, mostly. Took a lot of begging in the early days though. One of the reasons I’m working with Daryl now is because my dad feels better if another hero ‘keeps an eye on me. Eric sighed. Not that there’s anything happening right now. This thing just keeps running off and hiding.

So your father is okay with this, but what about your mother? Olivia waited for Eric to answer, but the boy seemed lost in thought. Eric? Did you hear me?

This thing just keeps hiding… A smile crept across Eric’s face. That’s it! Eric pulled his goggles down over his eyes and started scouring the area.

Wait, what are you doing? asked Olivia.

Right now, I’m looking for something I can use as a bat.

A bat?

Yeah, anything I can swing around really. Eric spotted a loose board in between a pair of tracks and quickly scooped it off the ground.

What are you doing?

This thing is just gonna keep hiding. Instead of tiptoeing around we need to flush it out.

Wait, how are—

Just do your best to keep up. Eric sprinted down the length of the nearest train, repeatedly rapping his makeshift bat against the side of the boxcars. Olivia started running after Eric as fast as she could, but it was hopeless. She could only cover half the distance of the train before Eric rounded the last car. The girl hopped through a gap in the nearest boxcars to the next track only for Eric to immediately pass her, banging his board against every car on another train.

What are you doing? she yelled.

Making noise. I’m gonna scare this thing out of hiding.

Are you sure this is a good idea?

Better than just quietly waiting around and doing nothing. Eric circled around an engine and Olivia squeezed between a pair of boxcars to follow.

I really don’t think this is going to work, said Olivia as she emerged on the other side.

Well what should we do? asked Eric without stopping. It’s not like we even know what— A loud crash echoed from inside a cargo car, prompting the boy to skid to a sudden stop. Olivia watched anxiously as Eric looked at her and made a shushing motion with his hand, then waved for her to follow him. Approaching the freight car, the pair noticed the doors were closed but the handles had been bent badly, as if something had tried to pull them off.

Okay, we charge inside on one, whispered Eric. Three, two— The doors to the container swung open, knocking Olivia and Eric backwards. The cloaked stranger burst out of the cargo container and landed on the ground on all fours. It quickly glanced at Olivia and Eric, then took off running. Eric leapt to his feet and started chasing after it. As he ran after the beast, Eric grabbed his cellphone and held the button to speed dial Daryl.

Hello? Eric?

We found it! We’re chasing after it now. Eric watched the creature scurry its way up the side of a black tanker car.

You saw it? What is it? Daryl’s questions went unanswered as Eric leapt onto the car’s ladder and hurried up to the top.

I don’t know what it is! Eric spotted the creature leaping off the tanker and onto the next car. Just fly over here and give me some help! ordered Eric as he chased after his target.

Where are you?

Somewhere in the train yard.

Where in the yard?

I don’t know! I’m on top of a train. Just keep an eye out for the teenager in the green spandex shirt chasing a monster in the Friar Tuck getup. Eric slowed to a stop when he spotted the creature peering over the edge of the last car of the train. The boy pocketed his phone and quietly closed in on it.

Edging closer, Eric only made it a few steps before the creature spun around and looked at him. Slowly it stood up on two legs, its baggy cloak concealing all but a pair of bright orange eyes shining through the darkness, like a couple of small fires. Eric stood there for a moment, staring into the creature’s eyes as it stared into his.

You can’t run away forever, especially not from me. The creature kept staring at the boy while Eric eyed his prey. Suddenly, the boy made his move. He had been fast, but the creature had been faster. It sprung forward through the air and narrowly landed on the next train as Eric landed on the spot where they creature had just been standing.

The boy looked over at the creature in disbelief. Three empty tracks were between them now, a lot further than Eric was sure he could jump. Confident it had escaped, the creature turned away, prompting Eric to back up as far as he could.

The boy sprinted forward and bounded off the edge of the train. He soared through the air, for a few seconds before falling considerably short of his target. Eric hit the ground rolling and tumbled painfully across the last empty track and into the side of the train he was trying to land on.

Dammit! Eric picked himself up off the ground. That was stupid, mumbled the boy as he climbed onto the boxcar he had just crashed into. Spotting the creature in