Lisa turned on a desk light in her office. The warmth of the artifical light was surprisingly soothing after all the hassles of this month. She briefly wondered if she was photoelectric, but instead decided that it was nothing more then tired, overworked and worried muscles. Still, the light was as decadent as a massage and while she moved the light across her form, she pined for the summer sunshine.
She was interrupted by a knock on her office door. Fumbling, she placed the light back on her desk. She mumbled a response. As the door opened, she saw it was Tommy and the nurse from the Tommy's orphanage. "Mrs. Peterson, is Tommy ok?", she asked. Tommy did looked extremely tired for an eight-year old, but then again, he was easily fatigued.
"I'm not sure, but I thought I would bring him down for his checkup early."
Tommy smiled, "I'm fine. Just want to rest." Tommy's problems had always perplexed the young scientist. With his paranormal abilities, he should outrun most track stars, or at least be able to keep up with his classmates without strain. There was no sign of disease or injury. Could his chemistry need some nutrient that normal humans don't?, she wondered.
Both Tommy and the VIPER agents were still mysteries to her. She wondered if the latest batch of tests results would point to any new clues on the strange VIPER drug, now being called "Red Dragon" on the streets. She was also worried that they would never surrive from their drug induced coma. She checked Tommy's eyes; at least his seemed normal. "Tommy, have you figured out what makes you tired?"
Tommy took a deep breath, "I get tired when I run and when I move stuff."
Lisa checked her notes and a recent blood sample. It might be asthma, but none of the standard treatments worked. Mrs. Peterson, do you mind if you leave Tommy here for a few hours?"
Mrs. Peterson smiled, "I do have some errands that need to be done. I'll be back around four."
Lisa rubbed her forehead, "I bet you don't feel invulnerable, do you?", she said with a smile now that they were alone. "Maybe I don't wanna glow like a Christmas tree." Lisa's forehead wrinkled at the thought of someone mistaking her for a holiday icon. Tommy laughed which made Lisa smile.
"Can we go flying with Starlight, please?"
"Tommy, it's much too dangerous. I know Starlight took you flying last Christmas, but this Christmas... This Christmas isn't good flying weather."
"Is Knightblade ok?"
"Yeah, he's recovering. Now, come on, we got more tests to run." Tommy frowned while she picked him up, "I know, Tommy, but I want you to get well."