Chapter 5: Familiar Faces, Interview Part 1!
Dan walked briskly out of the elevator, and exited his apartment complex. It was now 8:40 AM, just when he thought that the taxi might end up being late, a very expensive looking vehicle pulled up next to the curb. Is this the taxi they sent? I thought they might send one of the normal ones. Dan quickly gave it a once-over and could help but be impressed.
The taxi sent by The Front Line was a sleek black sedan. Its exterior was meticulously maintained, exuding professionalism and sophistication. I guess I should have expected this much. They must be pretty desperate if they're going this far just to impress me. He quickly walked towards the taxi, the driver put down the window, and smiled at him. To Dan's surprise, he could see text above his head.
Carlson Thornfield (Earth-90473)
Abilities: None
Occupation: Taxi Driver
"Hello! You must be Dan, I'll be taking you to your interview at The Front Line! Don't worry, they've already paid for your fare."
Carlson beckoned Dan towards the vehicle, and Dan opened the door, and got in, lost in thought. What's this? Why does he have information above his head? The system quickly answered his question.
[This interview is the start of your journey to greatness! You satisfied the conditions for the system to evolve, you can now use thought-based commands to open the system window!]
Oh, alright, that makes sense, so that's why I didn't see Andrei's information earlier! What conditions did I satisfy though?
[Interview with a higher-end company: DONE! Great first impressions on the recruitment officer and taxi driver: DONE! Commencement of personal narrative: DONE!]
Oh, so the conditions were set based on my current situation. Wait a moment... what the hell is a "personal narrative?"
[ERROR: Information unavailable currently! This information will become available to you once your Adaption & Evolution Main Skill has evolved to B-Grade!]
There's definitely a lot more to this than just a simple system, that's a hefty requirement right there. Well, it's as they say, there's no such thing as a free lunch! They were now caught up in New York's usual morning traffic jam. Dan decided to put aside his current thought process for later, focusing on the interior of the taxi for the first time. He had just sat down on one of the seats, but hadn't really paid attention to anything else.
Inside, the taxi offered a luxurious experience with plush leather seats. It was equipped with advanced technology, including a top-tier GPS system and in-car entertainment. Stark Industries tech, no doubt about that. All high-end taxis like this one are outfitted with the latest in Stark Industries technology.
Carlson seemed to have realised that Dan seemed a little nervous and distracted, and he left him to his thoughts. As they neared their destination, he finally spoke up, "We'll be arriving in around 2 minutes!"
Dan gave a jolt, after sitting in the quiet confines of the taxi, the voice of the taxi driver caught him off guard. "Oh, right, thank you!"
"No problem sir, just doing my job!"
Dan was taken aback by this form of address, but he took it in his stride. He made sure that his suit was straightened as much as possible. He took several deep breaths in order, to calm down, which was surprisingly effective. That must be because of the fast adaption, that really does come in handy in these situations! They had now arrived outside the building that housed The Front Line - New York City Branch.
Carlson turned to him with a smile, "We've arrived now, sir! Good luck with your interview!"
"Thank you! I had a pleasant journey to work thanks to you!"
Carlson's smile was more genuine then, "Thank you very much sir! It's nice to have a friendly passenger, that's two times today!"
Dan laughed, "Bye for now!"
"Goodbye sir!"
Dan mused to himself, What a nice taxi driver, they're usually not so friendly! As he walked towards the building, he caught sight of two security guards standing outside. He immediately recognised them from the various news articles posted about them from time-to-time. As if on cue, their information windows appeared above their heads, but these were much more detailed than Carlson's information window.
___________
Code Name: Powerhouse
Real Name: Carl Lucas (Luke Cage)
Age: 28
Abilities: Unbreakable Skin
Physical Appearance: Luke Cage's superhumanly durable skin is visually evident, conveying his invulnerability to harm. He boasts a muscular and imposing physique that showcases his physical strength. Luke Cage typically opts for practical and comfortable security attire, ensuring ease of movement and confidence in his duties.
Personality: Calm and composed, strong sense of justice, protective of those he cares about.
Affiliation: The Front Line, Heroes For Hire
Occupation: Entrance Guard (Security)
___________
Code Name: Jewel
Real Name: Jessica Campbell (Jessica Jones)
Age: 29
Abilities: Enhanced Strength and Durability
Physical Appearance: Jessica possesses an athletic build that highlights her extraordinary strength.
She typically opts for practical and comfortable attire for her security duties, allowing her to move with agility and confidence.
Personality: Sarcastic and independent. Protective of the vulnerable. Strong-willed and resourceful
Affiliation: The Front Line
Occupation: Security Guard
___________
Dan quickly read their descriptions, I wonder why they're so much more detailed, it's probably because they're heroes. I'll be like them in the near future, I don't really want that, but there's nothing I can do about that now. Jessica turned to Dan then, "How can I help you?"
Dan was nervous, after all, these two were the heroes he idolised the most. This was mainly because they actually focused on the events that were usually swept under the rug by the media. The Front Line was the only Newspaper he'd read that shed light on on other heroes apart from the more famous ones. "Uh-m - yes, my name is Dan Montgomery, I'm here for my interview!"
The two of them hid their smiles below their professional demeanour, it was rare for them to encounter any fans these days. "You can go right inside!"
Luke opened the door, and Dan gingerly made his way inside. There were a few more security guards there, who all had extensive information, just like Luke and Jessica. Luke called to one of the men, "Peter! Dan Montgomery is here for his interview! Could you possibly escort him up to the right floor."
The man in question turned to Dan, "So you're Dan, the boss can't stop talking about you! Let's head up, it's almost 9 AM anyways."
Dan looked at Peter's information window before answering him.
___________
Code Name: Boulder
Real Name: Peter Granger
Age: 25
X-Gene Ability: Geokinetic Might
Physical Appearance: Boulder's skin transforms into a rock-like substance when his power is activated, creating a visually striking and formidable appearance. He possesses a muscular and imposing build that complements his superhuman strength. His rock-textured, durable skin provides exceptional protection.
Personality: Protective and altruistic. Dedicated to using his powers for the greater good Resilient and determined.
Affiliation: The Front Line, The X-Men
Occupation: Security Guard
___________
A Mutant? This just keeps getting better and better, it's just like Alejandro told me! "Yes, let's go!"
The two of them took the elevator up to the 6th floor, which was labelled Recruitment Office. They then exited the elevator, they walked over to the door, Dan once again taking deep breaths to calm his nerves. Peter knocked on the door before entering. They walked into the room and Dan looked at the room around him, he could scarcely believe that he was here.
The Front Line's recruitment office presented itself as a well-organised, modern space, designed to welcome and engage potential candidates. As Dan entered, he immediately noticed that there was a friendly reception area where a welcoming face greeted visitors.
Comfortable chairs were arranged for individuals to relax before their interviews, and informative brochures and posters adorned the walls, sharing The Front Line's mission and beliefs. Secluded interview rooms, equipped with the latest technology to ensure a smooth, confidential conversation, were part of the setting.
The décor exuded professionalism and modernity, reflecting a commitment to excellence. The office's efficient layout guaranteed a seamless recruitment process. A man was waiting for them, he looked excited to say the least. This must be Alejandro!
He immediately walked over and turned to Dan, "You must be Dan Montgomery, it's a pleasure meeting you in person!"
Dan, baffled by Alejandro's demeanour, almost took a step back, but kept him self in-check. "Yes, I'm Dan Montgomery, it's nice to meet you in person too, Alejandro! I hope you don't mind me calling you that."
Alejandro laughed jovially, "Of course not, we all address each other on a first name basis here."
Dan breathed a sigh of relief internally. Alejandro beckoned him towards one of the Secluded interview rooms, "Let's get started!"
Dan followed Alejandro into the room, and gently closed the door behind him. "I know a lot about you from your application form, but as you may be aware, an application is often very different to the actual interview. I told you how the last interview went, they tend to reveal someone true nature."
Dan nodded in agreement, "That's reasonable, well, I'm ready whenever you are!"
Alejandro took out what seemed to be some sort of recording device, he then pressed the record button. "Good morning. Before we begin, I'd like to inform you that this interview is being recorded for training purposes. I hope that's not an issue."
First chapter done!
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