Chapter 5: A Villain in the Mist

 

The following day, Lori arrived at work, eager to dive into an article about the superheroes and vigilantes patrolling the streets. She pondered, “Should I title it ‘Superheroes or Vigilantes’ or perhaps ‘Angels Watching Over Us’?” After some deliberation, she decided to go with the first option.

“Hey Lori, check out this picture!” Marla said, handing it to her. Lori gasped, clearly taken aback.

“Uh, no way,” she said, returning the picture to Marla.

Marla raised an eyebrow and asked, “What’s wrong with using this picture?” She looked a bit confused. Lori sighed heavily and replied, “You can’t see her face clearly,” while nervously playing with the stuff on her desk, trying to mask her growing discomfort.

The picture showed Electra Woman, but it was a bit blurry and snapped from a weird angle, so it was tough for anyone to really tell who she was.  Still, she’d rather people not look too closely and figure out her real identity as Electra Woman. 

"We'll go with a different picture," she mentioned. Marla just shrugged and agreed. Once she finished the article, her boss complimented her work.

 "Lori, do you really think these so-called superheroes or vigilantes, as the police refer to them, are actually looking out for the public?"  the editor asked.

"Absolutely, I believe they’re here to assist, not to obstruct the efforts of law enforcement. I believe these superheroes are going to have a real impact.”  The editor nodded, “Sounds good to me, it’s well done and it’s going to print,” he took a moment and then asked, “Are you planning to attend the company Christmas party?”

Lori looked over at him and replied, “Possibly.” 

 “Alright, then I’ll catch you there.”  Mr. Jones had a crush on Lori for a while, but after everything she went through, he hesitated to ask her out. Lori headed home and prepped for her martial arts class. When she got there, Kris was already waiting.

"Hey Lori, how was your day at work?" Kris paused for a second and added, “Mine was super boring. Dealing with customers is,” she sighed and rolled her eyes, “you get what I’m saying.”

Lori gave a nod.  “Is your brother planning to visit you?” she asked. Kris's eyes sparkled with excitement.  “I knew it! You two are just meant to be. I could feel the chemistry when I introduced you at the park.” Kris is completely off base, but Lori kept quiet about it.

The idea of her being drawn to Tim sent a shiver down her spine, causing her to frown and grimace.  Later, while Kris was rehearsing with fellow students, Tim made an appearance. He observed the practice session closely.  Lori was paired with Kris, and Tim focused intently on Lori’s movements. 

“Heroes need a nemesis,” he mused, with a sly grin. Lori noticed Tim’s intense gaze but decided to brush it off.  Once class wrapped up, Kris and Tim headed out, and Lori gathered her stuff and followed suit.  When she got home, Frank excitedly revealed some new gadgets for her to use in her crime-fighting adventures.

“This device launches a net from this metal casing,” he explained while demonstrating its use.  “You can attach this nifty gadget to your belt.”

“Wow, Uncle Frank, you’ve really been working hard.”

“Yep, but what about you?” Lori took a moment to think, then replied, “I’m doing well.” Frank shook his head, a look of concern on his face.

“Lori, you need to turn him in.” Frank felt a wave of relief wash over him when she acknowledged his concerns, but deep down, he couldn't shake the feeling that her words were merely a way to placate him. The following day, Lori showed up at the office Christmas party. It’s the day before Christmas and it was chilly outside. Tim, who had previously stalked her before the assault, recalled where she worked as he sat parked across the street. He made a daring choice and crashed the party. Nobody questioned his presence; they just figured he was a buddy or family member of one of their coworkers. He kept to the sidelines, trying to stay under Lori's radar. From his spot, he observed her chatting with another female coworker. His stare was intense, like a predator lurking in the dark, just biding his time.

As the party started to wrap up, folks began to head out, and Lori was no exception. On her way to the parking garage, she spotted Marla’s car with the hood popped open. Curious, she went over to check it out.

“Hey, what’s going on?”

Marla let out a sigh and replied, “Looks like there’s an issue with my car; it just won’t start.”

Lori said, "I can drive you home if you want."

"Sounds good," Marla replied, quickly grabbing her things from her car and jumping into Lori's. Lori softly chuckled to herself, thinking about how Marla would react if she had given her a lift in the Electra Car. Tim chose to wait for Lori at her home, eager to see how well she is in combat.  "Every hero needs a villain, Electra Woman,” he mused as he drove.

While Lori was driving Marla back home, she realized they were heading towards the street where Kris and her brother live. She let out a quiet sigh. They passed the apartment complex to a duplex community a few blocks away. Lori parked in the parking space at the back of the duplex, and both walked to Marla’s duplex home. 

Lori didn’t have to walk her coworker all the way to her apartment; she could’ve just told her she was heading home. But out of habit, Lori felt the need to keep an eye on her and make sure she got inside safely.

“Thanks for helping me out, Lori,” Marla said, taking a moment and added, “With that serial rapist on the loose, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Lori gave a nod.  “How about some coffee?” Marla offered while she heated up the water.

“Actually, no thanks, Marla. I really need to head back home,” Lori replied with a smile as she turned to leave. Drive safely, and I really appreciate your help! Lori gave a nod and replied, “Merry Christmas, Marla.” They shared a hug before Lori headed out. With Christmas just around the corner, Lori was super excited to see her uncle's reaction when he unwraps his presents tomorrow.  As Lori drove into the driveway, she caught sight of something shifting behind the bushes next to the front porch. Exercising caution, she stepped out of the car. The moonlight shimmered across the lawn. Lori hurriedly approached the front door, her senses on high alert, when out of nowhere, she was knocked to the ground! Her purse flew through the air, accompanied by her Electra-com, which she should have used to alert her uncle about the intruder on the property.

Tim caught her off guard, leaving her breathless.  “The first rule is to always stay alert to your surroundings,” Tim remarked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Lori swiftly regained her composure and leaped to her feet, taking on a defensive stance, her body ready for whatever might come next. Tim wore a snug black long-sleeved shirt that highlighted his toned body, paired with matching black sweatpants and sleek black sneakers.

Even with a black mask covering his eyes, Lori was still able to recognize his voice.  A sly grin played on his lips as his gaze beneath the mask, locked onto her with fierce intensity. Lori felt slightly disoriented but steadied herself with a deep breath, removing her heels and lifting her fists in readiness.

Lori's voice was strained as she replied, "You're making a big mistake."

"Every hero needs a nemesis, Electra Woman," Tim shot back.

Lori's eyes widened, and her jaw clenched in response.

Tim continued, "I know exactly who you are. You ought to be grateful," he said, taking a moment.  

"Why do you say that?" she asked, a wave of fear washing over her, urging her to flee. Yet deep down, she understood that confronting him was her only option.

“If I hadn't raped you, you would have never embraced the life of a vigilante,” he paused, then finger quoted, “A superhero.”  He lunged at her, and they plunged into a fierce battle. Their fighting skills were evenly matched, but Tim had a few tricks up his sleeve that left Lori momentarily stunned. She got knocked down a few times, but each time she sprang back up, her fury evident, and Tim found it exhilarating.

Lori gasped for air, each strike against her body, felt like being pounded by rocks. Tim showed no signs of relenting, and Lori knew it all too well.  Out of the blue, a mysterious figure emerged and launched an attack on Tim. Despite being on the brink of exhaustion, Lori summoned her remaining strength to confront him, joining forces with another superhero to take on the assailant.  He knew he could handle both, but feeling outnumbered, he chose to withdraw, sprinting into the shadowy embrace of the trees. 

The mysterious figure who came to Lori's aid was about to chase after him, but Lori cried out, “No!” She collapsed onto her knees, and the enigmatic woman quickly assisted her back up, guiding her into the safety of her home. Lori’s uncle is taken aback and furious. “Lori, you have to report this attack immediately!” he said. The woman assisting Lori nodded in agreement. Lori glanced at her and asked, "Who are you?" The mysterious figure wore a stylish black and gold snug bodysuit, paired with matching boots and a black mask.

As she took off the mask, her captivating emerald eyes shone through. Her light brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail. She settled beside Lori, softly placing her hand over Lori’s to provide reassurance.  “I used to go by Lightning Gen, but now I’m Lady Lightning,” she said with a playful grin and a roll of her eyes.  “I’ve been watching your superhero activities, and I actually came here to chat with you when I spotted a man hanging out in the shadows,” she paused for a moment.  “It looked like you could use some help.”  Her smile was warm and full of kindness.  Lori attempted to sound courageous as she said with a nod, “I’ll report the attack, even though I’m not entirely sure who he is,” she lied, fully aware of his identity.  Her uncle exhaled in relief and passed her the phone.  She dialed the police, and they arrived at their home shortly after.  However, by that time, Lady Lightning had vanished, leaving behind a business card with a number scrawled on the back for Lori.

Lori shared the incident with great detail, yet she chose to keep her suspicions about who the attacker really was, to herself. The thought of Kris discovering the truth about her brother filled her with anxiety, as it could completely turn her life upside down. She did not want to be the one to destroy Kris’s life, however eventually she will tell her about her brother and fears that day will be coming soon.

Determined to lighten her own load, Lori firmly decided against being the one to expose Kris’s brother’s secret, not yet.  After the cops left, her uncle was deeply engrossed in his inventions down at the Electra Base, tirelessly crafting new gadgets for Lori to utilize in her crime-fighting adventures.  He knows that she will ultimately catch Tim and hold him accountable, so it's crucial for her to be well-prepared and ready for the confrontation. 

He is unaware that the man who attacked Lori, was in fact, Tim. It would not sit well with him if he found out that Lori left that out of the report.  Meanwhile, Lori settled into the soothing warmth of the tub, her tired body throbbing with fatigue. With her eyes closed, she pondered, “Tim, payback's coming.”

(Pictures are for the readers entertainment, enjoy)

Chapter 4: Not A Secret Anymore

 

Tim got home around 3 in the morning. Kris was soundly asleep and had no knowledge of her brother’s extracurricular activities. It would break her heart if she ever found out that her brother was a rapist. Tim quietly made his way to his room, passing his sister’s room. He gingerly opened her bedroom door to look in on her. He could hear her snoring; he smiled and closed the door and went to the bathroom. As he undressed, he noticed the scratches on his upper right arm and dabbed rubbing alcohol on it. He winced and clutched his teeth to mask the pain.

 “That bitch scratched me,” he muttered, referring to his latest victim. He quickly washed up and went to his bedroom. After closing the door, he sat on his bed for a moment.

 “Lori,” he whispered, “so that’s her name.” He smirked and lay down on his bed. Wearing only his boxers, he reminisced about when he raped Lori.  He loves the fear he saw in her eyes, but when he ran into her recently, she looked right at him with no fear, just a burning desire for revenge.

 He thought to himself, “I wonder why she hasn’t turned me in yet?” He was mulling that over and wasn’t too fond of what was on his mind, in fact he was worried. A few days later, he found himself at the breakfast table, watching the news on TV. It was his day off, and Kris was busy at work. She gets off at 9pm. He was enjoying his lunch when a segment aired about a vigilante known as Electra Woman.

"Electra Woman strikes again, thwarting yet another robbery," the reporter declared, kicking off an interview with the shop owner. Once the interview wrapped up, they displayed a photo captured of Electra Woman a few weeks prior. An unidentified individual captured the image and forwarded it to the news station. The photograph reveals only a partial side view of her body and face, but there's no doubt about it—it's Lori. Tim let his fork slip from his fingers, the sound echoing as it hit the table. Sometimes Lori wore a mask, but not that day. Tim's eyes widened in shock before narrowing with realization.

 “No way,” he murmured. “Now I see why she hasn’t reported me to the police; she’s biding her time, that bitch. She’s got something up her sleeve and I won’t let her get the upper hand,” he resolved. That week, he dropped by the martial arts class. While Lori was busy assisting a student, Tim strolled in. Her eyes went wide, a wary look shadowed her face. Tim walked up to her. “Lori, is my sister here?”  

She looked at him, her gaze sharpening. Then, she forced a smile and replied, "I think she’ll be here tomorrow."  

"Right, I totally forgot," he laughed lightly. Lori felt a shiver of discomfort around him; honestly, all she wanted was to take him down and haul him into the police station. She didn’t want him to figure out that she knew he was the one who attacked her. She wanted him to stay completely oblivious. After everything he put her through, she was dead set on catching him as Electra Woman. Her uncle had a valid point, but she was determined to handle it her own way. Clenching her jaw, she turned her gaze elsewhere.

 Tim spun around slowly, about to leave, but then stopped, faced back, and said, “You know, I actually took a martial arts class too, and I’m a black belt,” raising his eyebrows with a smirk on his face. Lori snapped her head back to look at him, and they locked eyes with a fierce intensity. “Is he trying to challenge me?” she thought.

With a touch of sarcasm she said, “If that's the case, maybe you ought to show your sister a few self-defense moves. You don’t want her getting raped by some loser, piece of shit, right?”

 With her arms crossed, she stared him down. He just stood there, hands in his pockets, giving her a hard glare. Their eyes met, neither were willing to give in.

"You know, we should definitely practice some moves together someday. I’m sure I could show you a thing or two," he said in a low voice. 

She sighed and replied, "Just let your sister know I'll catch her in class tomorrow," then Lori turned and headed off to grab her stuff from the back as she was going to call it a day. Tim watched her as she walked away. The other instructor had walked in to take her place. 

He pictured Lori in the outfit she rocks as Electra Woman. He thought to himself, "There's no chance she wants anyone to discover she's Electra Woman. That would be a total disaster for her. She'd lose her job and have to create a whole new identity."

 He flashed a bold grin, then casually walked out. Lori had a brief conversation with the instructor who arrived right after he left. "I'm going to head home now. Catch you tomorrow," she said. They bowed at each other, and she walked out. While driving home, she was completely unaware that another car was following her. She drove up the long driveway that led to the house, which was pretty isolated with no neighbors around. After getting out of the car, she made her way to the front door and called out for her uncle as she stepped inside. Frank walked over and hugged his niece. 

“How was your day?” he asked. Lori collapsed onto the couch, letting out a deep breath as she recounted what happened in class. He felt his jaw clench, a wave of anger bubbling up inside him.

“Lori, you should report him. He seems to know who you are and..."  

Lori cut in, "Yeah, I get it. I'm thinking about it."  

"Thinking isn't enough, you need to take action," her uncle urged. She nodded in agreement.  

"I have work tomorrow, plus class, and Kris will be there."

Frank sighed, "Lori, you know how I feel about this."  

"I understand,” was all she said and then she went upstairs to take a shower before going to bed. 

Tim stared at the ominous Victorian home. “So that is where you live now, Electra Woman,” he pondered. He cast a sharp look and let out a heavy sigh as he turned the key to start his red 1964 Mustang, a cherished gift from his mother. Keeping the headlights off, he drove away quietly, ensuring he was well clear of the house before illuminating the road ahead. He finally came to a halt after leaving the quiet street where the Victorian house stood. 

While driving home, he turned on the radio. A track named, “One Toke Over the Line” by Brewer & Shipley was playing softly. He pulled into the apartment complex, parked in the carport, locked up, and made his way up the stairs to his apartment. When he opened the door, Kris greeted him with a bright smile. “Hey big bro, where’ve you been?” He tossed his keys into the bowl and snagged a beer from the fridge.

“Just went out for a bit, nothing major.”  

“Really? You sure you’re not hiding a girlfriend?” she joked. He chuckled, shook his head, and quickly switched topics, “So, are you heading to class tomorrow?”

“Yeah, why?” Kris asked. He plopped down on the couch and started flipping through the channels, landing on the news. 

“Mind if I come over to check it out?” he asked. 

Kris settled beside him, deep in thought until a realization struck her. “Wait a minute, I see what’s going on,” she said, pausing for effect. “It’s Lori, isn’t it? You have a crush on her!” she chuckled.

He lifted an eyebrow, gave a slight shake of his head and scoffed. “Well, I took a martial arts class ages ago, so I’m curious to see what your instructor is teaching you.” 

Kris frowned slightly, “Sure, I guess.” She took a sip from her Pepsi. The news unexpectedly aired a piece on the enigmatic Electra Woman. They replayed the same image from last night. Tim looked over at Kris, who, completely didn’t realize that Lori is Electra Woman.

Kris remarked, “It seems like there are quite a few vigilantes out there these days. The police might grumble about it, but I have a feeling they secretly appreciate the extra support.” Tim focused intently on the image on the screen, his gaze sharpened. “Sure,” he replied curtly before switching the channel. Kris simply shrugged, and they settled in to watch an episode of Sanford and Son.

Staying Strong

 

Lori and her uncle got busy decorating the Christmas tree and hanging up lights both inside and outside the house. Almost every room has been remodeled, except for the library. Frank found a secret passage that leads straight to the basement. He chose to hold onto it rather than demolish and seal it off. The library requires some TLC, but the construction team will be working on it in the next few months. Lori headed downtown to pick up some things for dinner before she went to the gym. After preparing the meal and enjoying it with her uncle, she made her way to the gym. 

While working out, she spotted a man who looked oddly familiar. He had a clean-shaven face, and his hazel eyes glimmered as he surveyed the area. He observed several women as they exercised, his gaze reminiscent of a predator surveying its target. A shiver traveled down her spine as she caught sight of him. He hoisted a 50-pound dumbbell, his muscles tensing as droplets of sweat formed on his brow. 

Unbeknownst to him, Lori was watching him with a wary gaze, determined to keep her distance. Just then, a young woman, roughly Lori's age, approached him. Lori instantly identified her as the woman from the martial arts class. She quietly made her way toward the restrooms but couldn't resist glancing around the corner to observe their conversation.  

“Tim, I had no idea you came here,” Kris remarked. Tim set the dumbbell aside and took a seat on the chair situated against the wall. Kris looked down at him, a playful smile dancing on her lips as she crossed her arms.

“So, what brings you here?” he asked. “My martial arts instructor recommended this gym to me,” she replied. He exhaled deeply, “So, are you all set to head home?”

Kris shrugged and replied, "I'm not sure, but I thought I spotted my instructor around here earlier. I wanted to have a chat with her." Tim looked confused and asked, "Her?" 

Kris nodded, "Yeah, she's amazing and really courageous." Then, Kris plopped down next to her brother. She dropped her duffel bag beside her. “What makes you say that?” he asked.

“She mentioned that she went through a sexual assault, and it really motivated her to start taking self-defense and martial arts classes, so she’d be ready if it ever happened again.” 

Tim thought for a moment and then asked, “What’s she like?”  

“She’s around my age, maybe a year older, with sandy blonde hair, brown eyes, and a great figure,” Kris paused, giving him a playful look, “I could totally set you two up; you might really click.” He chuckled while shaking his head, saying, “Listen, kid, marriage isn’t really my thing.” He got up, grabbed his duffel bag, and she followed suit. They both headed for the exit and walked out together. Lori let out a sigh and emerged from her hiding spot behind the wall. 

“Kris is his sister," she whispered under her breath. "I recognize him now and I’m determined to discover where they live,” she mused and contemplated her next move. When she got home, she filled her uncle in on Kris and her brother. “Lori, just be super cautious when you're around her. If she finds out who you are, she could give him a heads-up about you.” He took a sip from his hot chocolate. “She might not be aware of the troubling things her brother is up to,” he said, taking a moment before adding, “Also, figure out where she lives and let the police know. They can take care of it, sweetheart. Just report it as yourself, Lori, not as Electra Woman. Think about it, okay?” She understands that he is right, yet within her, a smoldering flame ignited—a flame that fueled her desire to pursue her own brand of justice. On Christmas Eve, Lori and her uncle hit the town to check out the holiday festivities and check out the large, decorated tree at the center of the quad. Lori had absolutely no clue that she'd run into Kris and her brother today. She strolled over to one of the stalls selling those heavenly fresh-baked cookies everyone raves about, while her uncle took in the sweet sound of a little group belting out Christmas tunes. Just as she handed over the cash for her cookie goodies, she swung around to get back to her uncle and she bumped right into Kris. 

"Wow, Lori, I didn't think I'd run into you here," Kris exclaimed.

Lori took a nervous gulp and replied, "You know what they say, it's a tiny world." She couldn't help but give her a warm embrace. "Merry Christmas!" she added with a smile.

"Hey, Lori, this is Tim, my brother," Kris introduced him casually. 

Lori's expression grew stormy as she stared at him, a tight smile plastered on her lips. A powerful surge of disgust rose within her, but Kris seemed completely unaware. Meanwhile, Tim could practically feel the tension thickening in the air. 

As the realization hit him that Lori was one of those the women he had hurt, his posture stiffened up unnaturally. Anxiety took over, making him feel really nervous and jittery. He couldn't help but fidget, his eyes darting away from hers as if he was trying to escape her gaze. 

Tim had this intense feeling like he needed to bolt out of there as fast as he could, but Lori's gaze was like a spotlight that wouldn't let him go anywhere. Then, Kris took charge and tugged on Tim's hand, which was buried deep in his pocket, making him bring it out and offer it to Lori.  As they shared a handshake, Lori remained poised. 

"Nice to meet you," she said, taking a quick second to then add, "Tim." Kris glanced at them and noticed Tim's nervous demeanor.  She figured he was just feeling a bit shy.  “Right back atcha, Lori," he said with a smile, turning to Kris, he said, “I'm gonna go try my luck at one of those games and grab you a prize." He patted her shoulder. He glanced over at Lori and awkwardly mumbled, “Great to meet ya,” with a bit of a nervous smile as he stuck out his hand for a handshake. Lori took his hand with a firm grip and looked him right in the eye, saying, “No, the pleasure's all mine, really,” in a way that made it clear she knows who he is. Her smug smile made him feel uneasy. He spun around and started walking off from Kris and Lori, making a point not to look back. "That bitch,” he thought to himself, "she knows who I am."

“I’m sorry Lori, I have no idea what's going on with him today," she said with a bewildered smile. "He's typically the one to make the first move with the ladies. Maybe you've just got him flustered," she added, letting out a little laugh. Lori playfully rolled her eyes, "Don't worry, I get that a lot. I guess I have a knack for making most guys feel a bit nervous," she joked.

Kris asked, "Did you come here alone?"

Lori replied, "No, I'm with my uncle." As she scanned the area, she spotted him enjoying the Christmas carolers performing on stage.  "There he is," she said, gesturing toward him. "I should check in on him. Catch you later," she added to Kris before heading off. 

"Hold on, I want to meet him," she said. Lori smiled and replied, "Of course, let’s go." She took Kris's hand, leading her over. "Uncle Frank, this is Kris, the woman I mentioned." He turned to face her, extending his hand. "Pleasure to meet you," he said warmly. "If only my brother hadn’t disappeared, I could have introduced you to him," Kris remarked. Frank exchanged a knowing glance with Lori, a silent understanding passing between them. Lori hesitated for a moment before saying, “Well, my uncle and I will be heading back home now.” Kris nodded in understanding, replying, “Alright, I’ll catch you in class next week.” She watched as they walked away. Suddenly, Kris’s brother appeared out of nowhere, startling his sister. She chuckled, shaking her head. “You really startled me, you know,” she said with a playful grin. “How about we make our way back home, Kris?” With a sigh, she agreed. Once they arrived home, Kris took a shower and went to bed. Meanwhile, Tim chose to venture out again, keeping his plans a secret from Kris.

(chapter 4 will be posted in a few weeks)

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Chapter 4

Becoming Electra Woman

 

Six months have passed since that fateful day when Lori's world changed forever. Her uncle Frank took out a loan to purchase a slightly worn two-story house nestled in a tranquil neighborhood on the city's edge. He brought in a team of construction workers to breathe new life into the place. Meanwhile, Lori took charge of her situation by enrolling in a self-defense martial arts class. She also joined a self-defense course to help manage the anxiety and turmoil she felt after the attack. To add a fun twist, she even designed a costume for her future crime-fighting alter ego, which her uncle wasn't too thrilled about. Still, he knows his niece well; her resolve is strong.

"Why do I need a costume?" she wondered, a smile spreading across her face as she looked at the vibrant stretch Lycra fabric she found at a local discount store, along with a pattern to make her idea a reality. The pattern was for a ballerina outfit with long sleeves, and she snagged it at a bargain. Lori got some of her sewing talent from her mom, who was an amazing seamstress. Lori decided to put those skills to the test by stitching together a long-sleeved bodysuit. After trying it on, she examined her reflection in the oval mirror in the living room.

“Not too shabby,” she mused, pleased with the fit. She found some yellow leggings at the local aerobics shop that matched her bodysuit like a dream. To top off her look, she whipped up a pair of gloves in red and yellow. After taking a step back to check out her creation, she noticed it was missing a logo on the front. So, she took off the outfit and started pinning the letters EW right under the cool yellow lightning bolt design at the collar. 

"What could EW mean?" she wondered aloud. Then, with a snap of her fingers, she exclaimed, "Electra Woman!" A big grin spread across her face as she felt a rush of satisfaction and confidence. The gloves have an awesome lightning design on them. She made a yellow belt to match the leggings and cape, but she was still on the fence about using the cape. Frank stopped by to see his niece and fill her in on the latest developments at Electra Base. "How's everything, Lori?" he asked as she welcomed him inside, and they settled onto the couch. Puzzled by her choice to remain in the apartment where the incident occurred, he asked, "Why are you still living here?" "Uncle Frank, I avoid the bedroom where it happened," she replied, taking a brief pause before gesturing to the couch, "I sleep here instead.” Frank let out a sigh and shook his head, encouraging Lori, "You really ought to find a new place. Once my house is fixed up, you can move in with me." Lori nodded in agreement, "I’ll think about it." After a brief silence, Lori asked, “How’s the work on the basement coming along?”  

 

“I found something fascinating about the old house I bought,” he said, pausing for a moment for dramatics, “The basement is just right for my high-tech projects.” He was obviously happy about his discovery. The two-story house sits atop a hill featuring a generous basement that Frank envisions as the perfect location for his computer and tech haven. He even hired an architect to create a distinctive manmade cave beneath the basement, complete with an elevator that would transport him straight to the main level. With four bedrooms and two bathrooms, the house is definitely a good fit for Lori to consider moving in, but the final choice rests with her. She has always cherished her independence.  Even though the project is still underway, he expressed his eagerness to see the outcome. Frank enthusiastically shared his vision with Lori, who eagerly awaited the end results. When she asked about the possibility of concealing the artificial cave entrance, Frank nodded in agreement, mentioning that he was also developing a uniquely designed electric vehicle. “Uncle Frank, you’re a genius!” Lori praised him, causing a faint blush to rise on Frank's cheeks. He would do anything for his niece, but he couldn't shake the fear that her fixation on tracking down her rapist and exacting revenge could lead her into peril. “Sweetheart, the police still haven’t caught him, but I’m sure they will,” he said gently. Lori swallowed hard and replied, “I understand, but he’s still out there and he will do it again. I will find him,” her voice icy and resolute. Frank nodded thoughtfully and said, “I have something to show you.” He opened his black suitcase and revealed an intriguing wristband equipped with a unique device. Pressing a button, a beam of light shot out, sending the ashtray on the table flying. “Incredible!” Lori gasped.

“Absolutely, but it’s meant strictly for emergencies.” 

Lori beamed and asked, “Are you planning to develop more gadgets for me?”  

“Without a doubt,” he replied after a brief pause, he continued, “Lori, I realize you haven’t embarked on your crime-fighting escapades yet, but I need to ask you once more: are you really certain you want to pursue this?” Lori let out a deep sigh and gave a nod. “Uncle Frank, I know what I’m doing, and I assure you, I’ll be careful.” Two months later, she settled into her uncle’s newly renovated house, claiming one of the rooms for herself. Although construction workers were still busy on the opposite side of the home, it wouldn’t disrupt her personal endeavors. Lori was reluctant to leave her condo behind, but she understood that the man who assaulted her was unlikely to come back. Still, she had gathered some info about where he might be hiding. The information would still have to be verified though. Lori chose not to share this information with her uncle, fearing it would only increase his anxiety. It's best to keep him out of it until she's confident that she's found her rapist. A man makes his way up a set of stairs to an apartment in Anaheim, which is located on the opposite side of town. Dressed in a white tee shirt with denim janitorial overalls, he’s had a long day dealing with unruly kids at a nearby middle school where he works, and all he craves now is time to unwind and catch a few shows on TV. 

As he enters the apartment, a 23-year-old woman with a chic bob haircut and bangs, welcomes him, her light brown hair perfectly accentuating her lovely, tanned features. Her hazel eyes light up with excitement at the sight of him. “How was work today, Tim?" she asked, wrapping her arms around her older brother in a warm embrace. With a five-year age gap between them, she had always admired her older brother and depended on him for support and protection. Growing up in a fractured family, their parents were often absent, and when their father walked out on them, it placed a heavy burden on their mother, who struggled to care for her children when they were just 8 and 13 years old. The overwhelming pressure became unbearable for her, ultimately driving her to seek solace in alcohol. Over the years, her depression grew worse, and eventually, she was involved in an accident that took her life. Tim was just 20 years old and juggling a part-time job while studying at a community college when tragedy struck. After the loss of his mother, he faced a difficult decision: to abandon his education and take on a full-time job to provide for himself and his sister. His sister Kristen was still in high school at the time, and he encouraged her to complete it. "Come on, Kris, you need to graduate! After that, it's your choice whether to pursue college or not."

Kristen began to object, saying, “But…” 

Tim interrupted her, he said firmly, “No more excuses.” He playfully tousled her hair and planted a gentle kiss on her forehead. “It’s just us, kid,” he said. She sighed and nodded. At the time she was 15 and still reveling over the loss of their mother. Kristen wanted to quit going to school and get a part-time job, but he insisted that she completed school. Throughout the years, Tim had navigated through various jobs before finally landing a janitorial role at a middle school. It wasn’t a career choice, but it brought in the money he needed to support himself and his sister. He sold his parents’ house and rented a two-bedroom apartment for him and his sister. After Kristen graduated, she found employment at the nearby mall. On her way home, Kristen picked up some groceries and prepared a homemade dinner for two. In previous years before she got a job, their meals consisted solely of TV dinners, but now that both are working, they can enjoy the luxury of cooking real meals.

Kristen told him, “I cooked veal, broccoli, and mashed potatoes, along with some homemade biscuits.”

He replied, “Sounds good, Kris. I’ll eat after I shower.” She hesitated to ask him if he planned to go out again that night, worried that delving into his personal life might be crossing a line. They both had their own lives outside of family matters, so it seemed wiser to keep her questions to herself. A few months back, she recalled hearing about a series of sexual assaults targeting women in their area, which made her cautious about certain places. One evening, while her friend Molly was driving her home, they spotted a man who resembled her brother getting into a woman’s car. Kris dismissed it, thinking there were plenty of guys who looked like him. “Is that your brother? Why is he dressed like a homeless man?” Molly asked. Kris quickly diverted the conversation, saying, “Could you please watch the road?” Kris lets out a worried sigh as she sets the plates down on the table, recalling memories that weigh on her mind. 

Their apartment is decked out in 1970s décor suitable for the times. House plants are placed in corners of the room, adding a touch of life, while a vintage kitchen table occupies one corner. A brown leather sofa, a thrift shop find, rests against the wall beside a sliding door leading to a cozy little balcony. Hanging above the table is a round glass lamp in a vibrant orange hue, also a thrift store treasure, and the olive-green curtains have a funky design on them, completing the retro vibe, all sourced from the same shop. As Tim sat down opposite her, she welcomed him with a friendly smile. “Hey Tim, any plans for tonight?” she asked casually. He shook his head, “Nah, I'm not going out tonight. I’m in the mood to watch, The Streets of San Francisco.” Kris nodded, and they enjoyed their meal together. Once dinner was done, they kicked back to watch some TV.

Meanwhile, Lori was immersed in her thrilling life as a vigilante. For several months, she had been apprehending criminals and leaving them securely tied up near the police station. With her trusty Electra car, she would transport the captured offenders and drop them off at the local precinct. She recalled her uncle’s advice that many vigilantes prefer to leave their captures close to the police station and then alert the authorities, so that’s exactly what she did. Although Frank remained skeptical about her crime-fighting pursuits, he still offered his support because she was family. 

Two days later, Lori decided to cozy up at home and indulge in some television instead of going out. As she flipped through the channels, a news segment caught her attention, featuring a reporter discussing vigilantes and the mixed opinions surrounding them. Some people hailed them as heroes. The scene was set at a nearby mall, bustling with passersby. Suddenly, Lori's gaze landed on a man accompanying a woman who looked to be in her twenties. The man struck a chord of familiarity. She racked her brain, and then it dawned on her, “No, it can’t be him,” she murmured to herself. She recalled the man she had given a ride to nearly a year ago—the very man who had raped her. Her heart raced, her brow knitted in tension, and heat rushed to her cheeks as she locked eyes on him. He briefly glanced at the reporter before quickly averting his gaze. The woman with red hair beside him wore a black mini skirt paired with a brown leather jacket. “I wonder when this was filmed,” she thought to herself. Stepping out of her room, she made her way straight to the Electra Base in the basement. “Uncle Frank, I saw that man,” she hesitated. 

“What man?” he asked. 

“The man who raped me. He was on TV; a reporter was discussing vigilantes, and he walked by in the background,” she said. Frank felt a mix of surprise and excitement at Lori's sighting, but he also worried that her eagerness to confront him might cloud her judgment.

“When do you think that report was filmed?” she asked.

“Well, it might not have been too long ago, but…” 

Lori cut in, “Do you think if I went down there, I could,” she hesitated, “possibly find him?” 

“Lori, if it was live, I doubt he’s still there now.” He did not want to discourage her from seeking justice, but he did not want her to jump in, without a plan.

Lori nodded, “You’re right,” she paused. “The reporter did interview a man who was helped by one of the vigilantes and I think he mentioned that the hero who helped him goes by the name of, 45-Bolt.” 

“Well, every vigilante has a name these days,” Frank remarked and added, “There’s Lightning Gen, who patrols the streets in San Gabriel. She’s quite famous, but only once was she caught on camera without her mask--she hasn't been seen since."

 He then added, "Most of them wear masks to protect their identities." Lori pondered the idea. "That makes sense, but I haven't been using one since I'm out at night and I've been careful to keep my face hidden," she replied. Frank suggested, "Maybe you should consider wearing one, just to be safe."

She shrugged and said, "Maybe." The following day, she visited the mall, she spotted the area where the reporter was filming, and she took a seat on one of the wooden benches in the quad. Lori surveyed her surroundings and closed her eyes, reflecting on the news clip she had seen earlier on the television. With a deep breath, she thought, "Where are you, you bastard? I will find you; I promise."

A few weeks later, Kristen was at the mall, immersed in the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping. Most of her gifts were intended for her brother and her friends. Taking a break, she settled onto a bench in the quad, observing the crowd and the children laughing on the merry-go-round. A wave of nostalgia washed over her as she recalled the times her mother brought her and her brother to enjoy the ride. A gentle smile spread across her face as those cherished memories flooded back. As the evening wore on, Kristen made the choice to return home. She boarded the bus, which dropped her off just a block from her apartment complex. While strolling along the sidewalk, a Latino man came up to her, insisting she hand over her purse. Unfazed, she shot him a fierce glare and stood her ground.

“Hey, are you listening? Hand over your purse, now!" he demanded, his face obscured by a mask. But Kris refused to be cowed by a thug. Instead of complying, she feigned surrender, then she suddenly swung her purse with all her might, catching him off guard and knocking the gun from his grip. She quickly kicked it away from him and took off running. He chased after her, leaping onto her and bringing her to the ground. He held her down on the grass outside the apartment complex. Just as he began to choke her, someone intervened, grabbing him and yanking him away from her. She scrambled away from the chaos, casting a quick look over her shoulder to witness a woman in a superhero outfit battling the assailant. Kris dashed toward the apartment complex, punched in the key code to unlock the gate, and hurried to her apartment. 

The belongings she had been holding were scattered across the lawn. As she stepped inside, her brother welcomed her but quickly noticed her distress. Concerned, he asked, “What’s wrong?” He wrapped her in a comforting hug as she shook with emotion. 

He began to listen as she recounted the events, but before she could finish, he dashed out the door in pursuit of the culprit. His intentions were unmistakable; he was determined to end the perpetrator's life. However, by the time he arrived, he spotted a woman in a strange costume, pulling the perpetrator into her a oddly shaped vehicle. 

The electric car powered on silently and sped down the road. A look of confusion crossed his face. “Wow,” he whispered to himself. Noticing the bags Kris had left behind, he let out an exasperated sigh and picked them up, trudging back to his apartment.

Website

Electra Woman & Dyna Girl Chapter 1

Chapter 3

Electra Woman & Dyna Girl: Savages

 

(This fanfiction is based on the charming tv series from the 1970s, Electra Woman & Dyna Girl. I do not own the rights to the Electra Woman & Dyna Girl characters, only the side characters I created)

Chapter 1: Lori’s Secret

As Lori and Judy enjoyed their breakfast, discussing their magazine projects, Judy turned to Lori with a playful smile and said, “Wouldn't it be great if we could take a vacation together? How about Hawaii? Just imagine lounging on the beach and soaking in those stunning sunsets.” Lori chuckled and shook her head. "Judy, crime never takes a vacation," she quipped before finishing her coffee. Judy let out a sigh, "We need a break though," she complained, resting her head on the table in defeat. She glanced up at Lori, who was amused by her friend's dramatics. Judy let out a sigh and remarked, "I suppose it's time for us to go to work." Lori chuckled and teased, "Alright Judy, maybe we can sneak in a quick getaway eventually," offering Judy a glimmer of hope. Judy placed her mug on the counter and walked over to Lori, embracing her and planting a kiss on her cheek. Leaving the kitchen behind, she made her way to the bathroom to freshen up and apply her makeup.

Lori took a moment to admire the happy face mug that Judy had gifted her for her birthday the previous year. A soft smile shadowed her face. She stood up and put it on the counter. Lori and Judy were on their way to work, and Judy was chatting non-stop about various topics. It was clear that she was always excited to kick off the new day. Lori appreciated that quality in her close friend. Lori and Judy became roommates when Judy turned 20, and despite 5 years having passed since that day, they are still good friends. They look over each other, especially since they are into the vigilante hero scene. Judy, who is now 25, learned journalism basics from Lori, who is 30 and has a wealth of experience in the field. Both are employed at Newsmaker Magazine. Judy receives assignments involving articles about dating and relationships, while Lori covers current events. No one, not even their families, know that this duo are crime-fighting heroes. Frank, Lori's uncle and a scientist, whips up all sorts of high-tech gadgets for Lori and Judy to help them take on the bad guys. His advanced computer keeps him updated on where and when crimes are happening. So, how did these women turn into vigilantes? 

It all started six years ago when Lori was deep into a magazine assignment, chasing a story she was passionate about. After wrapping up her interview, she made her way back to her car parked in the dimly lit parking structure. Unbeknownst to her, a man was trailing her every step. He was of average build, with short brown hair and striking blue eyes, dressed in faded jeans, a well-worn black T-shirt, and a brown leather jacket that had seen better days. This man had been following her for a while now, completely unnoticed. Lori, a 24-year-old who had just started her job at Newsmaker Magazine, lived alone in a cozy one-bedroom apartment in Pasadena. As she was leaving, the man approached her, asking for a lift to the gas station. Although she felt a twinge of uncertainty, she ultimately decided to help him out and agreed to drive him to the nearby Quik-Shell gas station.  “I appreciate the ride, but I don't want to inconvenience you," he mentioned as he settled into the passenger seat. After buckling up, Lori drove towards the gas station, they did not converse much, however he suddenly mentioned, “Maybe you don’t have to drop me off here. I think I should just head straight home.” Lori's expression became concerned as she glanced at him, sensing something was off. He led her towards his home, but it turns out he lives several blocks away from her, she found it strange. She dropped him off two streets down and drove home, glancing at the rearview mirror to see him standing on the sidewalk, watching her car as she drove away. Lori arrived at the apartment complex where she lives. Her apartment is located on the lower level, it comes with a small outdoor patio. She settled in and boiled some hot water for chamomile tea. The tea kettle whistled, indicating that the water was ready. She grabbed a small box filled with tea bags and put one in her mug. As she casually settled down on the sofa and sipped her tea, she watched television until 10pm. It was a long day for her, so she decided to turn in for the night. She set her mug on the counter as she has done many times after drinking her favorite tea. A sigh escaped her lips before she retired for the night. Unbeknownst to her, a mysterious figure lingered in the shadows, with malevolent motives, observing her from outside the window. Despite the thick curtains, a small opening allowed him to gaze inside, unnoticed. The darkness enveloped him as he skillfully manipulated the lock with his tools, ensuring that no one would notice his clandestine activities. With a quick glance over his shoulder, he slipped inside, careful to avoid any noise that might give him away. It was 12 midnight; Lori was sound asleep when suddenly someone cupped her mouth with their hand. She jumped with a start. The room was dark except for the dim light of the streetlights, coming through the slit of the blinds in her room. The weight of the man bore down on her, trapping her in place. Panic surged through her as she struggled to free herself, but his grip was unyielding. "Stop fighting me bitch,” he growled, striking her with a cruel force. Her cries were met with a brutal slap, causing her to nearly lose consciousness. In her vulnerable state, he seized the opportunity to restrain her wrist with his belt against the cold iron bars or the headboard of her bed. His hand clamped over her mouth, muffling her cries with a handkerchief. He grabbed masking tape from his jacket pocket and swiftly silenced her with the tape.  Terror gripped her as the thought raced through her mind, “This can’t be happening to me!” The dread of the impending assault loomed over her, crushing her spirit. He slowly unfastened his pants, gently raised her nightgown, and slid her underwear down. With a pulse of desire, he unveiled his eager arousal and pressed into her warmth. She was raped for three agonizing hours, her willpower fading until she finally slipped into darkness. She hardly realized when her attacker left, leaving her bound, but strangely, he took the tape off her mouth. Hurt and frail, she unfastened the belt from the cold bed frame that bound her wrist, inching her way to the bed's edge. As she attempted to stand and reach the door, her legs betrayed her, sending her crashing to the floor.

 Tears streamed down her cheeks. With a heavy heart, she crawled to the nightstand, desperately grasping for the phone to call her uncle Frank. She really should've called the police, but what she wanted was someone she recognized, someone she could trust—family. Since her parents split up, her mom had been absent, living in Europe with her boyfriend. When it came to her dad, she felt too embarrassed about the whole situation to even mention it to him. Perhaps he would have been there for support, but she knew darn well that his only solace was at the bottom of a bottle. Besides, he lives in San Francisco, so she didn’t want to bother him.  Lori chose to reach out to her uncle, her mom's younger brother, who had supported her during her parents' divorce. He played a crucial role in helping her cope while her father struggled with depression and neglect. He was once employed in high-tech gadgetry for a private company, he now found himself unemployed after a recent layoff. When he arrived at her apartment, she shared what had happened to her, prompting a shocked response. “No,” he urged, "Lori, it's crucial that you reach out to the police," he insisted. She nodded in agreement, and with his encouragement, she dialed the authorities, who soon arrived at the apartment complex. Unfortunately, her neighbors caught wind of the situation and began to murmur among themselves, expressing their sympathy for her plight. Despite feeling a wave of embarrassment, Lori tried her best to recount the events to the officers. Meanwhile, her uncle was furious about the entire incident. “Uncle Frank, I need to go to the hospital, can you come with me?" she pleaded. He agreed, and they headed to the hospital together. Following a painful and humiliating experience of sharing her story with the police, Frank suggested she stay at his place for the night. "It's better than being alone in your apartment,” he said. Lori agreed and requested her uncle to gather some clothes from her room and pack them into a suitcase. Over the following months, she immersed herself in yoga and meditation, becoming part of a support group for women who have faced assault, where they openly shared their experiences and emotions. This therapeutic approach was recommended by her employer. But what Lori wanted was revenge; to help the authorities apprehend her rapist. A month later, she stepped back into her empty apartment, the silence echoing her uncle's solitary existence. He had chosen to live alone, never marrying, yet his life was filled with fleeting romances. As he faced the impending absence of his niece, a sense of loss washed over him, and he pleaded for her to stay. But she knew she had to confront her own shadows and attempt to move forward, leaving behind the warmth and security of his home. Lori entered her apartment, a sigh escaping her lips as she acknowledged the mess that awaited her. "I suppose cleaning is in order," she murmured softly. Yet, she deliberately bypassed her room, shutting the door firmly behind her, never to return.

(images used on this blog are for the reads entertainment. The bold text is for those who have eyesight problems.)

(Chapter 2 is available )

Becoming Electra Woman