Chapitre 12: Chapter 12
The rhythmic pounding of Hughie's feet against the pavement echoed through the early morning streets of New York. His breath came in ragged gasps, sweat streaming down his face, but he pushed on. Two miles today, double what he'd managed just days ago. Progress, slow but steady.
As he rounded the final corner back to his apartment, Hughie allowed himself a small smile of satisfaction. The ache in his muscles was becoming familiar, almost welcome. It was tangible proof of his transformation, of the distance he was putting between himself and the weak, helpless person he'd been before.
After a quick shower and change of clothes, Hughie dove into his studies. Forensic textbooks and online lectures filled his morning, his mind absorbing complex concepts with a voracity that surprised him. The old Hughie might have balked at such intense academic pursuit, but this new version of himself found a strange comfort in the rigorous mental exercise.
As afternoon approached, Hughie felt a restlessness settle over him. He'd been cooped up for days, alternating between his apartment and the gym. On impulse, he decided to venture out into the city. Not for any particular reason, just to be among people, to observe and absorb the rhythm of the world he was preparing to change.
The bustling streets of New York enveloped Hughie as he walked aimlessly, his mind still churning with the information he'd spent the morning studying. He found himself analyzing passersby, noting details about their gait, their clothing, the minute expressions that flitted across their faces. It was like seeing the city through new eyes, every person a potential clue, every interaction a puzzle to be solved.
Lost in thought, Hughie barely registered the young woman until he collided with her, sending the stack of papers she was carrying flying.
"Oh shit, I'm so sorry," Hughie stammered, immediately dropping to his knees to help gather the scattered documents.
"It's alright, no harm done," the woman replied, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. As Hughie looked up, he found himself face to face with a striking brunette, her intelligent eyes regarding him with curiosity.
"I'm Hughie," he said, handing her the last of the papers. "Hughie Campbell. And I really am sorry about that."
"Victoria Neuman," she replied, accepting the documents with a smile. "And honestly, it's fine. I was probably just as distracted as you were."
As they both stood, Hughie's eyes caught a glimpse of one of the papers. "Wait, is that a draft of the Superhuman Registration Act?"
Victoria's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You're familiar with it?"
Hughie nodded, his mind racing. "Yeah, I've been following the debate pretty closely. It's a complex issue, balancing public safety with individual rights. Especially when you factor in the economic implications of regulating superpowered individuals."
A look of intrigue crossed Victoria's face. "Well, Hughie Campbell, you've just become the most interesting person I've met all week. Care to grab a coffee and continue this discussion?"
Before he knew it, Hughie found himself seated across from Victoria in a nearby cafe, engaged in a spirited debate about superhero legislation and its broader implications for society. He surprised himself with the depth of his knowledge, drawing on the intensive research he'd been doing into Vought and the Seven.
"I have to say, I'm impressed," Victoria said, leaning back in her chair. "It's not often I meet someone so well-versed in these issues who isn't directly involved in politics."
Hughie shrugged, a mix of pride and caution warring within him. "I guess you could say I've developed a... personal interest in the subject lately."
Victoria's eyes narrowed slightly, sensing there was more to the story, but she didn't press. Instead, she steered the conversation towards broader policy issues, and Hughie found himself thoroughly engaged. It felt good to flex his intellectual muscles, to discuss complex topics with someone who could match his newfound intensity.
As the afternoon wore on, Hughie realized with a start that he'd lost track of time. He had his evening MMA session to get to, and a mountain of studying still waiting at home.
"I hate to cut this short," he said, genuinely regretful, "but I've got a prior commitment I need to get to."
Victoria nodded, reaching into her bag and pulling out a business card. "I've really enjoyed our chat, Hughie. If you're ever interested in putting that knowledge of yours to practical use, give me a call. I'm always on the lookout for sharp minds in my office."
Hughie accepted the card, a flutter of excitement and apprehension in his chest. This unexpected connection could be valuable, but it also posed risks. He'd need to be careful, to maintain his cover while potentially cultivating a useful resource.
As he jogged to the gym, Hughie's mind raced with the implications of this new development. Victoria Neuman seemed genuinely impressed by him, and her position in local politics could provide access to information he might not otherwise be able to obtain. But getting too close to anyone in the political sphere also meant increased scrutiny, something he couldn't afford as he continued his clandestine preparations.
The MMA session that evening was brutal, Coach Mike pushing Hughie harder than ever before. But even as his body screamed in protest, Hughie felt a sense of exhilaration. He was growing stronger, faster, more capable with each passing day.
Late that night, exhausted but satisfied, Hughie pulled out his checklist:
✓ Physical weakness - Increased running distance, intense MMA session
✓ Lack of combat skills - Continuing formal training, showing improvement
✓ Limited knowledge of investigation techniques - 5 hours of study, practical application in observing city
✓ No resources or connections - Potential new connection with Victoria Neuman
✓ Emotional vulnerability - Maintained composure during political discussion
✓ Naivety about how the world works - Gained insights into political machinations
As he circled "Day 3 of 365," Hughie felt a mix of emotions. Pride in his progress, anxiety about the long road still ahead, and a new spark of excitement at the possibilities this chance encounter with Victoria might bring.
He tucked Victoria's business card into his wallet, a potential ace up his sleeve for the future. Plus, she was kinda hot.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone