Nightcrawler

Kurt Wagner is a high-school junior who'd love to be a swashbuckler like Luke Skywalker or Neo. Kurt excels at soccer and gymnastics -- no shock there. As Kurt is the team's acrobat, he is the one with the greatest joi de vivre -- approaching situations (even dangerous ones) with zeal and zest (although he is neither flippant nor arrogant about it).

Although Kurt has a demonic appearance, he is actually the sweetest, most vulnerable, most human of the group. When those around him are feeling down, Kurt is the quickest to pick up on it. And because of his appearance, he feels the most isolated from people in general. How would he be judged if they saw the way he really looked? Far from being glum, Kurt buries his potential blue streak by displaying a wicked sense of humor. He always plays practical jokes, especially on "big brother" Scott.

By virtue of a holographic inducer, Kurt can attend the regular school. But he lives in fear of his inducer going on the fritz, and the other kids finding out about his true appearance and labeling him a total freak. Because his holographic inducer is purely visual, Kurt always must be careful about coming into contact with people. If they were to touch his face, they would feel his fur. If he were to hold hands with somebody, they would feel that he has only three fingers. And of course, this technology does have a tendency to go on the fritz. Fortunately, Kurt can teleport -- thus protecting his secret while leaving the people he left behind very confused. Kurt's powers include spider-monkey-like coordination, a prehensile tail he can use like a third hand, and the ability to teleport.

Beyond Evolution Copyright © 2004 Denaill.