During a formal announcement by the Commander of the Glory Squad, a new member was introduced to the team. William Kurtis, an 18-year-old Latino-American male with black, shaded brown curly hair and dark brown eyes, joined the crew under the moniker "New Ace." Possessing a formidable power rating of 5.45, which dethrones Sapients from his position in the squad. Kurtis' power, "Unchained," allows him to control up to eight chains that extend from his back and can be utilized using his hands for maximum efficacy.
Upon receiving the sudden news, Sapients' dissatisfaction was palpable. His propensity for selfishness and an inflated sense of self-importance gave rise to the idea of challenging Kurtis to a physical altercation. MARCH 13, 1996 After Kurtis' first night at camp and during his afternoon meal the next day, Sapients duplicitously invited him to the back of the building under the guise of having a friendly conversation.
Once there, Sapients cornered Kurtis against the wall and forcefully grabbed him by the collar, causing him to feel slightly intimidated. Sapients then proclaimed himself to be the 'strongest' member of the squad, believing that no one could 'surpass' him. This display of immaturity caused Kurtis to lower his eyelids and giggle. Sapients' unwavering belief that he was the protagonist of his own story led him to believe that no one could overpower him due to his incredible growth during childhood. Kurtis tried to explain that the world did not revolve around Sapients and managed to break free by using a chain to swing Sapients' arm away.
However, Sapients remained unconvinced and proceeded to form an energy orb above his palm, fully intent on launching it at Kurtis. Just as Sapients was about to strike, a girl interrupted them with a shout, but it was too late. Sapients' energy orb was launched at the chainless Kurtis, but it was blocked by an invisible wall. The girl introduced herself as Luna Gates, a 16-year-old American with straight black hair and dark brown eyes. Her power, rated 4.84, was the "Barrier," which allowed her to create an invisible wall in front of an individual as a defensive measure against incoming danger. Luna declared that she would report Sapients' violent behavior to the captain.