“You’re going to continue to feel uncomfortable using it until you figure out the mechanics of it,” he pointed out. “It’s like training a muscle—,” he was echoing her thoughts on the matter without meaning to, “Except that by not strengthening it, you run a much different risk in the end.” It was the downside for many Supers; by not working on honing it, it could become much more volatile.
There seemed to be some recognition in her face while he explained things to her—at least from his perspective—and he hoped that his words had helped, at least in some small measure. Having to come to this place was rough enough without having someone making you even more terrified. But she seemed grounded; like she had a good head on her shoulders. Qualities he appreciated since he so oft had his head in the clouds.
Mike smiled and gave a small laugh as he opened his hands and shrugged, “Unless you have another one you didn’t disclose, then yeah, I’ve been briefed.” He shook his head, and continued. “Though, it’s always different, coming from someone in the higher echelons, than when it comes from the person who has to deal with them on a day-to-day basis. Why don’t you explain to me what you can do?”
She looked somewhat anxious when he mentioned the kidnapped agent. In an attempt to assuage her concerns, he leaned a little closer and lowered his voice. “Mostly domestic, and usually not quite as extreme as that instance.”
With a slight frown, he shook his head. “They aren’t necessarily optional, no. But I won’t submit your name for any mission if you’re intensely averse to it. If someone from on high requests otherwise, though—I’m afraid that’s out of my hands, as much as I wish it weren’t.”