The TV crackled and buzzed, along with other strange noises. It wouldn’t have been odd for such a cheap television, even on mute, if not for Channel 20’s famous perfect reception reputation. The screen went fuzzy and blinked repeatedly. Arin furled her eyebrows and turned the TV off and back on, but it was still covered in snow. She got up and tried to inspect the useless box, checking the wires and making sure they were all plugged in correctly. They were. 

She heard it again. 

Every light in her apartment burned out. It went pitch black, and Arin couldn’t get them to power back on no matter how fast she waved her hands.

Another bolt of lightning lit up the hallway, revealing the outline of a dark, sinister man standing in the doorframe. 

“Arin Adams, we need to talk,” The figure belted. Lightning struck in time with his vocal cadence. 

“Dr. Rage!” Arin gasped. The surprise hit her first, but then a hint of relief. Dr. Rage wasn’t a dangerous super at all, albeit frightening at first glance. 

“Do you know who I am?” The dark shadow’s tone was deep and loud. Like a wolf’s howl, it echoed off of everything.

“Obviously.” Arin nodded. Dr. Rage was the head of the Ultimatum. His face was everywhere.

“I am Dr. Rage, head of the Ultimatum—”

“I know, your face is everywhere. The lightning, the echoing voice, and…wait. Wasn’t it morning just a minute ago?” Arin looked out her window which was now dark as midnight.