Stitch
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History
"Like I said, my name is Adrian Sol Riano, or Stitch. Before, I used to be real quiet and shy when it came to my "origin" stories. A lot of weird and scary things happened to me. I'll try to be as specific as possible when explaining, but bare with me, this is the first time I've come out with it to the general public. It will be hard. I don't like to really show emotion, I used to get bullied a lot for it. But, here it is. My life story. Every bit of it, not a single stone left unchecked. This is one hundred percent truth."
- Born on September 30, 1993, to a small middle-class Hispanic family, Adrian Riano opened his arms wide to the world. His family owned a small home in Tucson, Arizona. He wouldn't be alone, however. Just a two minutes after his birth, his twin sister Marisol followed. Growing up in the middle of the Sonoran desert, Adrian didn't find many friends. When he and his sister were both two, his real father, who remains a mystery, left, leaving a jobless Mother to look after the two. Marisol was soon diagnosed to have a mild form of Autism, which made raising the two very difficult.
- Adrian loved his sister more than anything in the world. He'd often color pictures with her, sing to her, and play with her dolls even though he'd rather ride his bike in the neighborhood. Their street had a few other children, a few years older than the twins, but that didn't stop them. Marisol was very outgoing and kind, polite and respectful. Adrian was more inward and reclusive, but once people broke past his barrier, they really enjoyed his company. He used to tell jokes, play practical pranks, and adored seeing others smile. Their Mother was proud to have such great children.
- When Adrian and Marisol were six years of age, their Mother remarried. For the first few months, things were the same. However, the family soon found out that their step-father was a violent, abusive alcoholic, with a short fuse and nasty temper. Their step-father used to smack their Mother around, used to beat Adrian with a wet rope or cable wires, and used to pull on Marisol's hair and toss her around.
- Mother was afraid. She sent Marisol to live with their Aunt Alicia, while the police dealt with this. Adrian was torn away from his only friend, his sister, and forced to deal with a monster. For the next few years of elementary school, Adrian was a quiet boy. He never talked. He did his homework like a good boy and all, but that was it. He became neglected as his parents were in and out of court weekly.
"One of my fondest memories was when I was three. I remember it was my third birthday, and we had this huge gathering outside. My mom was still a bit depressed with Dad leaving us, but seeing cheerful faces fixed that right up. Anyway, it was like three in the afternoon. They had just brought out me and Marisol's cake. I remember seeing the little candles on top. When all the parents started drinking a bit, me, Marisol, our friends Julia, Martin, Walt, and Yolanda, all sneaked some cake. Yolanda and Martin were brother and sister. I know Yolanda was the oldest, she was seven. Weird seeing such an old kid with us little ones. Julia was four, Martin was three, and Walt was two. Yolanda had us all eat and then we ran. We were crazy. So we're now way past our backyard, sitting in some grass. Then this little lady bug crawls up my pants and up my overalls. I remember smiling a lot, especially when it ran down my arm and sat on my wrist. Eventually, our parents found us and we got a spanking. Thug life."
- Adrian eventually began middle school. Everyone started to date, except for him. He still didn't talk to many people. At the beginning of the 7th grade, Adrian began showing signs of another personality disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder. He started doing things that seemed way out of character. He started tagging graffiti on school walls, lighting garbage on fire. He seemed crazy. He started being bullied severely during this grade level as well.
- At the end of 7th grade, Adrian and Marisol's mother passed away after a brutal heart attack. Adrian thought he was being cursed for a some sin he committed unknowingly, and that he was going to pay dearly for it. His step-father, at this time, was in prison, and Adrian had been staying at his Aunt Alicia's apartment. Adrian was happy that he can see his beloved twin sister again. She had been going to a school for autistic children, and she was doing well. Making friends and just being generally liked in school and outside. Adrian had difficulty, though. His reckless behavior and poor grades reflected on his character. His teachers, as well as classmates, looked down on him. In 8th grade, Adrian looked forward to ending this nightmare. He hoped high school would be better. He had a poor reputation in the school as it was.
"I remember this one time at lunch, I went outside to eat, as I always do. There was this old bench I'd sit at and eat my nasty sandwiches and applesauce. One time, this girl came up to me. She was so beautiful! It wasn't anything sexual, I mean she had no curves, totally flat chested. But the way she carried herself, her face, the way her reddish hair bounced...it was unforgettable. She said her name was 'Liz' and she was wondering if she could eat lunch with me. My jaw dropped, like those cartoony jaws. Yup, that was what I did. I said it was okay and we ate. We talked a little bit. I was nervous and really awkward. I mean...I never had talked to a girl before. Eventually, we ate lunch everyday together and I got her phone number. I remember staying up late just to talk to her."
- Adrian had poor grades already, but they only worsened. His teachers viewed him negatively. His peers viewed him negatively. His only friends were his Aunt Alicia, Julia (who had gone to school just down the road from him), and his twin sister Marisol. That all changed when he was eating lunch, and was approached by a fellow 8th grader named Elizabeth Dewhurst. Everyone called her Liz. Liz was an exceptional student, respectful and studious. It seemed she had a case of "bad-boy syndrome" and approached Adrian for that matter. She may have had another motive; Adrian never found out for sure. Liz had reddish hair, looking dyed for sure, and a slight tan. She also had big brown eyes that sparkled in the sunlight.
- The two grew increasingly close as the year went by. Things were finally looking up, until his family found out that his step-father was murdered in prison. Liz was there for him. Eventually, Liz and Adrian started going steady, slowly beginning to hold hands in public and all that good stuff. They first kissed at a lunch sometime in February, and Adrian never forgot that moment. He likened it to sitting on a pier at night, the waters calm. Suddenly fireworks explode in the sky above them, illuminating the bright colors across their faces, taking in all the wonder. That was what his first kiss was like.
- Liz told Adrian that at the end of the year she would be moving to Versailles, France, for a better business opportunity. Adrian was distraught. The end of the year rolled by rather quickly, and the two parted ways, never to see one another again.
"I can honestly say I loved Liz. I mean, she talked to me and spent time with me when I was going through tough times. I looked forward to waking up and seeing her at school. I dunno...its different. I mean, I've dated a few girls here and there, but Liz was one of the special ones. I think we kissed like twice in the whole six months we dated. I remember butterflies in my stomach just thinking about her. Getting late-night texts from her; those made me smile. Now she's gone and I haven't seen her since. I hope she's doing well, she deserved it."
- Adrian managed to graduate. Adrian and Marisol's Aunt Alicia moved to the city of the future, Millennium City. The trio had a nice, simple apartment. The girls shared a room upstairs while Adrian got his own basement room. He enjoyed his quiet man cave. As he soon approached day one of high school, Adrian thought back on his life. He had been making too many mistakes to count. This wasn't him, this wasn't who he wanted to be. He needed to change.
- Adrian's first few days of high school were like any other freshmen's. He had trouble finding his classes and his role in the school. He wasn't a jock, but he liked to run and play basketball. He wasn't a gamer, but he liked playing old arcade games. He wasn't the Goth, even though e was reclusive and wore a lot of black clothing. Adrian wasn't sure what he was. However, he decided to not let others choose for him. He struggled and strained, but managed to be sociable and talkative to students of all ages. However, many ignored him, for his Histrionic factors began playing in. He was often very flirty with woman and formed bonds with them that simply weren't there. he was very emotional and took the slightest hint of negativity harder than it needed to be. He strived to be the center of attention, finding himself in the principal's office almost daily. Adrian was messing up. He knew he was sick in the head. He had his moments when he behaved, but at other times, he was, to be put frankly, a bad kid.
"I remember feeling like 'Andy' from the 'Breakfast Club'. Love that movie. I had gotten in a fight with our basketball team's small forward. His name was Ken or something. I think he started it because I was on the ground and he was on me. Bam, bam! Punch after punch. Then I'd roll over him, grab his collar and wail on him. Back to him, then me, back to him, then me. After a few seconds our school nurse ran over and we both got sent home that day. A few weeks later, I realized I started the fight. In my mind, he was beating me up. In actuality, I threw him on the ground and punched him out. He had winked at this girl I liked. That was when I knew, like really knew for sure, I was sick in the head. I was a monster on the inside, and in a few months, I was one on the outside."
- Adrian couldn't think of anything he could do. He went through the motions, so to speak. He dreaded everyday he had to put on a fake smile and leap off a building just to grab some form of attention. He needed it. He didn't know why he craved the attention, whether good or bad, of his peers. Everyday, instead of focusing on actually getting quality grades, he thought up the next crazy thing to do. He got a lot of boos and cheers when he did something reckless. He felt heroic, important. Then he planned something crazy: he was going to steal Principal Jones' sedan.
- He went home excited. He was truly a disturbed young man. He took out his notebook, called all of his friends. He planned it so meticulously, so precise...you'd think he robbed international banks for a living. Then, as he rummaged for a blank paper in his folders, which sat quietly in his nightstand, Adrian found a picture of Liz. He had made her a promise to clean up. There was a part of him that wanted to move on past her, knowing he wouldn't see her again. But another part knew that in spirit, she never left. Then he made a change.
- Adrian was transferred from Westside High School to enter Grace Memorial High School. This was a much better school. Cleaner, friendlier people. He tried to lie low for a while and avoid any sort of recognition. It was there he met his best friend Jeremiah. Jeremiah had a lot of money for a kid his age. He drove fancy cars, wore the nice clothes, had the latest phones. He taught Adrian a thing or two about being cool and relaxing. To not get some emotional with negativity and that people would like his normal self. That was the thing though: Adrian didn't think he had a normal self. He was still roaming school with dangerous mental illnesses.
- In time, Adrian passed his driver's test, and received his very own license. Not too many students at "GMHS" were driving yet. Adrian felt pretty damn cool. He also got a job at Darren's Pizza. He was a delivery boy. He always had a smile and made sure to be extra polite. He didn't make much, but his tips were higher than average due to his calm demeanor and respectful attitude for the customers. He didn't like it though. He felt fake, like he was lying to everyone. he really wanted to be a musician.
"This one time I had stayed late in school (GMSH), studying in the library. I was there for like an hour before my legs needed a good stretching. So I did some walking...and the door to the theatre was open. So I strolled in, went backstage, and checked out all the goodies. Had some sweet costumes, a lot of props, but something at the far end of the small room caught my attention. It was almost shining there. I rushed over to it and held it up. It was a Epiphone DR-100 acoustic guitar, and was in a rare solid white color. The very top of the headstock had some dried on spilled gold paint on it. I remember looking around and deciding to take it home. This was my new baby and no one would manhandle it again. When I got home, I told Alicia that my friend got it for me. Marisol loved it. I remember the next morning coming down the stairs and freaking out. She had a black Sharpie in hand. She wrote 'Angel' across the bottom, wider area. Forget what it's called. I didn't ever yell at sis', so I asked why. She said it looked like an angel. I've had 'Angel' ever since."
- Adrian played that guitar everyday following that fateful night. To his surprise, no one ever reported it stolen. And what also surprised him, was that he could bring his guitar to school and play between periods. With some calming tunes, Adrian instantly picked up the "finger-plucking" technique and in time became quite the accomplished musician. For a time he also practiced piano, but he thought a guitar would be easier to move between classrooms. He signed up for music classes and even writing, to be able to match lyrics to his notes.
- Jeremiah eventually moved in with his older brother Terrence. The two had a very nice and expensive home in City Center. Adrian was invited and packed his things. He said hard goodbyes to Alicia and Marisol, and moved in with the guys. The rooms were very wide and spacious...except for Adrian's. He had a small, basement like room exactly like his old one. He was kind of annoyed, but a home free of women was what he needed. Shockingly, within the next few months, Alicia and Marisol moved back to Tucson! They didn't even tell him. Towards the end of Adrian's Junior year of high school, he scrapped together the last of his pay checks and boarded a grey-hound bus to the Sonoran Desert.
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- Adrian had $4 in his solid black wallet. It was an old "Sons of Anarchy" wallet his friend Julia bought him a few months back. It had a few gift cards for Starbucks and Wal-Mart, and $90 total of birthday money. How he liked to show off his stuff wallet. Walking down the street, making a dramatic display of buying a pack of bubble gum. He would flash that smug smile he showcases even nowadays. People may have hated him, but he loved it. How often would he have a chance to do this?
- Truth be told, not many, especially now. He was in the middle of nowhere, between a rock and a hard place. Well, technically a Saguaro cactus and a cow skull. How did they even get in the middle of the desert? He had never seen a cow in real life. As he wandered, he pocketed his hands. He just thought back. he thought about how his dad used to beat him so badly. How his momma used to let him, it seemed. He felt sad when he thought about this, but not quite as sad as when he would think about his twin sister, Marisol. She was such a beautiful and vibrant girl. She didn't deserve to have mild Autism. It seemed like Adrian was taking care of her more than their parents. Right now, she was living with their Aunt Alicia.
- His mother was growing old and lived with an old boyfriend. Adrian's stepdad was back home in their two bedroom apartment in Millennium City, Michigan. Too far away from his heritage. His culture. It was a long way from home.
- He had been off that Greyhound bus for a few hours. His feet her walking through the gritty sand. He didn't know what he was doing, why he was back in the Sonoran desert. Maybe, he thought, it was to relive childhood memories. He had a special memory in particular. It was his third birthday, and his family had a back yard party. It was great. Food, music, family. He loved it. He and his sister Marisol, Jeremiah, and Julia, all ventured out into the desert when the adults were turned away. They didn't go far, but in the eyes of a child, they might as well have crossed oceans. They sat around throwing dirt at each other, all except for Adrian. Adrian spotted something he thought was so, so beautiful: a ladybug. It crawled up his little jeans, up past his over-all's, all the way up to his short, dark brown hair. He giggled a little laugh and picked it off. Its little feet tickled the back of his hands as it scurried around his wrist.
- Seconds later, their mothers found them all dusty and happy. After some scolding in Spanish, the kids went back to the backyard and ate some cake. Adrian received a small Thundrax toy. It is rumored he still has it to this day. This would be the unofficial start to Adrian's superhero career.
- Adrian kept walking down the dirt road. He hadn't his beanie, his scarred body. He didn't even have his stitched green face yet. He just had his dirty wallet, some ripped up jeans, and his hands in his pockets. He kept walking down the dirt path. The sun was setting. The Sonoran desert was famous for its beautiful sunsets. Many travel to Arizona just to see this marvel. Adrian didn't really care.
- His phone was dead. no battery. No service, anyway. He huffed a bit. He had been walking for what felt like years. Why was he so drawn here? He didn't know, he just shook his head. Earlier in May, he had graduated from middle school. He had already forgotten everyone he knew. He stopped dead in his tracks. The sandy dirt shifting around his old beat up Converse shoes. His eyes widened, his brows stretching up his forehead.
- A house. He saw a house in the middle of nowhere. No doubt a coyote station or something. Coyotes are people who smuggle illegal immigrants to and from Mexico. It didn't make sense though. This was way past the border to be a coyote station. He stood there in the desert staring. He squinted a bit. No...it was too big to be a house. Maybe a garage or something, he thought.
- As most young boys do, Adrian ran over to check it out. There were three vehicles. A small sedan, a white truck, and an old boat that didn't seem to have been on the water in years. the whole scene was bizarre. Adrian stopped and looked up. A massive warehouse of sorts sat quietly in front of him, reaching well past three stories. He gasped and his jaw hung there. he was motionless, expressionless, voiceless. Then he looked to a second story window. There was a young boy staring at him through a white curtain. Adrian blinked a few times, shaking his head. Weird, he thought.
- After a moment, he strolled over to the front door and gently knocked. even though the building was a dump in the middle of nowhere, manners were manners. Nobody answered. He stepped down the four stair steps and out from underneath the porch shade. e circled in the sand. He was confused. This made sense. An old facility in the desert, of course its abandoned. Maybe it was just some old furniture in the window? Couldn't have been a kid. That made even less sense.
- Then it started to rain. Weirder. Big heavy drops fell like needles on Adrian's dry, rough skin. He winced a bit, pulling his shirt up a bit to cover his head. He ran over to the small porch to the front of the building and sat in the stairs. He took a deep breath.
- "What're you doin' here, Adrian?" He thought to himself. He slumped down, burying his face in his arms. He was dry, at east, or...not completely soaked. After what felt like an hour, Adrian stood up, brushed dirt off his knees, and knocked on the door again. Before his fist met the wooden panel, it swung open. He blinked a few times.
- Holding open the door enough to be seen, was a young Hispanic woman, something like 16 years of age. She was beautiful, but not in the ordinary way. She was different, unique. She had dark, short messy hair that reached just past her ears. She has hazel eyes that twinkled in the evening sky. She perked a brow at Adrian.
- "¿Quién es usted?" She said in a quiet voice.
- "I-I..." Adrian stammered a bit. "Adrian. Name's Adrian. What is--"
- The young girl glared at him, squinting even. She looked him up and down. After a moment of silence, she stepped back and slammed the door. Adrian felt defeated. He should've spoken smarter, stronger. He sounded so weak and confused. No wonder she didn't let him in. Then, as he was about to turn around, the door opened again. It was a tall man, something like 6'3, in a perfect white suit, black shirt, and a gold tie. He had black pants on, perfectly shined black shoes, and black gloves on. He also wore a charcoal-colored mask that only showed his piercing blue eyes.
- The man leaned down and peered into Adrian's face. He broke personal space. "What do you want, son?"
- Adrian smirked. He was going to be bold this time, going to make a presence and demand food, a bed, and some clean clothes. He opened his mouth to speak.
- "Oh never mind." The suited man chuckled. "you want what they all wanted. Freedom." The tall man nodded slowly. "Mhmm. Yup. So, won't you come inside?" He step aside, stretching his hand to the inside of the building.
- From Adrian's view, he could see a window at the far back, and what looked like a kitchen at the end of the hall. There was a mirror on the left wall down the hall. In its reflection, he could see a room, full of posters of movies and pop singers. He also saw the same young woman who first opened the door changing shirts. He hadn't seen a bare bra on someone before. Adrian blushed a bit, eyes widening. He had a straight smile of surprise and shock, maybe even fear.
- The tall man chuckled, looking between Adrian and the mirror. He then leaned down and whispered into his ear. "We may just make you a man yet."
"Coming back from all that...it was intense. The fight club, the hospital, the escapes...it was insane. I regret so much. I still wake up with nightmares. I couldn't eat, couldn't sleep. I sometimes couldn't breath. I think Adrian died down in the desert. Stitch is who I am now."
- Adrian hadn't a dollar to his name now. After he stepped off the grey-hound bus, he went for a walk. All he had was his new face, his black beanie, and a small ripped-up backpack. He strolled through a park in City Center, the one near the Mind, Inc. building. He thought about what he might be doing in school right now. He may have been graduating this year. He could be driving around the latest date to the make-out point. He could have had a few one-night stands to punctuate what he hope would have been a spectacular senior year. Instead, Adrian, or rather, Stitch spent the last two years torturing, dealing drugs, and beating people to bloody pulps for a twisted and psychotic boss.
- Stitch always liked walking through the park, seeing all the colorful faces out for a jog or feeding ducks or what have you. He liked all the green. Back home, there wasn't grass or big trees. There were weeds and cacti. He almost didn't believe how beautiful the world is up north, and how brutal it is down south. He kept walking, his black hoodie pulled way over his face, casting a dark shadow on his face in the late night.
- For a while, Adrian couldn't pay his rent, and Jeremiah was forced to kick him out. Now jobless and homeless, Adrian took refuge in that same City Center park. He slept on benches, made friends with the other "hobos", and occasionally did beg for money. He wasn't used to being partially blind or being so hideous. He sunk into a bad depression and attempted to commit suicide. However, his regenerative powers had kicked in months ago, and prevented him. He was in a personal hell.
"Ah jeez...gotta talk about that. Well yeah, I was in this real bad funk. I slit my wrist, swallowed some pills, walked in the street. Nothing worked. Y'know I don't want anyone to be thinking that's the way out. I hope no one will go through what I did. Nobody knew who I was for a long, long time. I was alone, scared...afraid. I had developed new powers like I always wanted. why couldn't I lift hundreds of pounds or shoot eye lasers? No, I was stuck with healing. What good is living if you got nothing to live for?"
- Adrian had hit rock bottom. Eventually though, he was able to get a job at a grocery store in Westside, and in time, he bought a small basement home in City Center, near Darren's Pizza, his old job. At this time, Adrian was only 19, but with a quality fake ID, Adrian found himself wandering the infamous halls of Club Caprice. He...was a bit out of place. His tattered jeans and stained hoodie was no match for the glamorous and colorful outfits men and women wore there. He bought a few beers, and even met a young woman (who had also snuck in due to being under aged) named Amy.
- Adrian just enjoyed talking to her. She kept making remarks and overly laughing at his jokes and touching his arm when he spoke. It was clear she had a morbid fascination with this girl. Eventually, they moved to the lounge and talked. There, they bonded and became instant friends. She then got upset and Adrian wasn't sure why. She later said that she was sad because he didn't think she was "pretty" Adrian said he thought she was beautiful and she said, unless he made a move on her, she wouldn't believe him. So they made out for an hour or two. Eventually they began dating, and Adrian soon found out she was mentally unstable. Even worse than he was. She used him for money and had a lot of sex. Too much sex in his eyes. This was the start of his addiction. He forgot how to love but not how to please, so to speak.
- After a couple of weeks, Adrian broke it off officially, and she killed herself a few days later. Adrian was heartbroken and blames himself for her death. Its his fault in his eyes. His sanity meter dropped down a few levels that moment. His grasp of reality was slipping away from him. Stitch didn't go back to Caprice for a few months after that.
- Later, Stitch was promoted to Assistant Manager of his store and he began making a lot more money. He upgraded his home a bit and purchased a lot of gaming consoles, better appliances, and comfier furniture. Adrian started his vigilante career after he purchased some gadgets and a Kevlar suit from Jeremiah. He started patrolling City Center at nights and the early mornings, beating up scum and those affiliated. Eventually his territory migrated to that of the New Purple Gang's, and after stopping a weapons deal, he made a new enemy: Kevin Poe.
- The two have a complicated history, based upon a false rumor devised by Deviant. Stitch took a DNA result to try and find out his real father's identity. Deviant altered the results and showed it as "Sebastian Poe", Kevin's father. Stitch and Kevin as brothers? Most likely not, but Adrian was gullible enough to believe it. So, Kevin was upset; Adrian didn't know why. The two had a little fight here and there.
- In time however, the rumor was dispelled and the two never interacted. They never interacted before, anyway. Stitch was upset believing his real father was a Poe, but he was saddened that he didn't know his real father. His dad could be anyone in the world, amongst the millions. This didn't stop Adrian from trying to maintain good spirits. He became a frequent at Club Caprice, making friends and popping bottles. It had been almost a year since Amy's death, and Adrian was feeling a bit better about losing her.
- One night in particular, Adrian met a woman with striking beauty. She was quite tomboyish, but he didn't mind that. They introduced themselves. On that night, Adrian met Lavie. They actually used to attend the same high school. They didn't talk because they were on opposite ends of the high school popularity scale. He was an outcast, she was in the popular clique.
- Eventually they started dating, but her work interrupted almost every chance they had to be together. They broke up and no longer speak. Another lost, he thought. He had a strange way of "losing" his women. He never lost them, he chose to end it. He wishes he could have gone back and fixed everything, but what good is wishing now?
"Y'know I've dated a few women here and there like I've said. I just want to be loved and be able to say I love them back. I want to wake up holding her, knowing she's thinking about me as I think about her. Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic. I still have this sex addiction thing, but Dr. Barbara is helping me past that. Its working pretty good I think. But I've still got lost friendships to mend before I can say I'm all better. And I know I'll be better, because I have nothing to lose, everything to gain."
- Eventually, Stitch also got over that relationship as well. He was making more money and his basement was turning into a home. He and a few friends he worked with made an Indie movie, a murder-mystery. It was popular on YouTube and made the group a bit of money. Adrian starred as the detective. This was a shock to most people who knew Stitch. He never showed his face if he didn't have to. He didn't go to clubs and bars to chat up people. He went to drink and forget. However, instead of being ridiculed by viewers, Adrian was accepted by the general audience and loosened up his fear of being hated.
- Within the next few weeks and at the close of summer, Adrian caught word of a super team hosting a charity fundraiser to improve Westside. He loved the idea and wanted to help out. A while before all this, he met Anarchy and Thundrax at Club Caprice. His beanie was autographed by the Canadian hero. Veronica was his first connection to the Eternals, Inc. roster. He should have asked more questions, because he was a big fan of super heroes and wanted to become one.
- The fundraiser was hosted by the Eternals. Adrian arrived a few minutes fashionably late, dressed in his maroon button up shirt, tan waistcoat/pant combo, and of course his famous black beanie. He enjoyed the show for the most part, meeting a few new superheroes. However, one of the hostesses caught his eyes, the one being none other than the lovely Vixen. After "purchasing" one of the Eternals members, Divael, Adrian approached Vixen after the show. She accepted his offer for a friendly date. Afterwards, he spoke to Stopmotion and Colosso about joining the team.
- Adrian was a tad disappointed to find out Lorna was engaged to a man named John. He loved talking with Lorna. She made him feel good, smart, normal. In time, he met other proud members of the team, and after a brief interview, he was allowed a spot on the roster. For a time, things were going great! He was friendly and polite, making friends everywhere. He was the slapstick punk that every great team had. He was even interviewed on television, which gained popularity with the teen girl audience.
- However, after a situation arose in Westside, the Eternals confronted the Global Defense Force. It was there he met a woman who would change his life for better and worse: Britt Ashdown. They talked and he enjoyed her company. Vixen was on an assignment and he didn't really have many to talk to, aside from one of his best friends at the time, Desecrated Dreams. So Adrian and Britt "hung out". He was a little sad to hear that she did also have a man in her life, the speedster Overdrive. He didn't care, or so he said, and they continued hanging out.
- One evening where Stitch made an irrational mistake would change his life forever: the night of Rising Star. This was a training initiative for the Eternals to improve the super hero and personal lives of adolescent crime-fighters. Adrian wanted to participate. Meeting at one of the more popular hang outs, Pat's Coffee, Adrian's eye fixated no a mystery girl who watched from the shadows. He wouldn't know it yet, but this young woman would be the love of his life: Limerick. After an "incident" (Adrian throwing a knife at the ground at Anarchy's feet), Adrian was arrested. However, she bailed him out almost immediately after.
- Stitch, now at Rising Star, saw Limerick once again. They talked and waited for the program to begin. For having a criminal record and being over the age requirement, Adrian was not allowed to participate. He was upset and mad. Another young woman approached Stitch after Limerick left, and asked him a few questions about her. Stitch was suspicious and shrugged most of the questions off, before finding Limerick. He found her atop Carl's Gym in Westside. They talked and he grew a liking to her.
- A few days later, Stitch went for a walk in the area, hoping to find her. When he did, he told her that he had been going for a run and nothing more. They had a brief conversation. She revealed to him that she was without a place to stay, and he quickly offered her his home. She stayed on his couch although he offered his room. They grew closer, and that same night, they kissed. And they also had mind blowing sex, but that isn't important to the story. Waking up the next morning, he thought about how much he really liked her, maybe even love. It was too soon though, he thought.
">"Incredible. That's how I can describe being with Judy. She gives me a purpose in life, she gave me a reason to wake up in the morning. She's just...she's a gift from God, and I'm not a religious guy, but...she's precious, get me? She's the whole world to me. I gotta get her back. She isn't what I deserve, but she's what I need. I can't imagine living without her. Before I took a lot for granted and made so many stupid, stupid choices. I will get her back though, because I love her. And she loves me. So we have to be together. Right?"
- One day, Adrian invited Britt to his place. They talked and she showed herself around his humble abode. It was later revealed that she had very minor feelings for him when he showed her his guitar and he played for her. He felt special when she said he was talented. He liked her too, but Judy was the one for him. Later Judy and Britt were introduced to one another and they got along in Stitch's eyes.
- When the Global Defense Force (GDF) announced a ball, Adrian was excited. Judy was going to be his date, he hoped. However, about an hour before the ball, Stitch's small sedan was clipped by a larger truck and he crashed into a street light. He had minor injuries but he was taken to the hospital. He missed the dance. Days later, he took Judy out and they danced on a rooftop. That night, when they were making love, he accidentally said another woman's name: Lorna's. This is a huge mistake and Judy left him.
- At this time, Adrian was doing some terrible thinking. He was practically a scumbag, a sleazy schemer to some people. Manipulative even. He was led to believe that Britt and Overdrive had broken up. Adrian and Judy, taking a break as it was, decided he could try ad pursue Britt. However, it wouldn't work. Britt and Overdrive had simply had a fight and they never were separate. Adrian found this out at an "Ungeneric" (popular duo band of Anarchy and Divael) concert, in front of everyone. He was embarrassed to say the least.
- This didn't stop him. After trying to enter relationships with Quintessence, Desecrated Dreams, and Strobe, Adrian managed to piss off most, if not the entire, Eternals team, as well as many of the Heroes, Inc. roster. He had lost some of his best friends because of his immature desires getting the better of him. Why did he have to be so cruel? He blamed it on the drugs and drink, even on Deviant and Stitch's own mental illnesses. But deep down, he was a person too, and secretly was a bad guy. Just like his father and step-father.
- This would be far from the worst that would happen. Stitch started smoking marijuana again as well as his alcohol abuse worsening. Weeks before, he quit his day job to focus on the team. He had been training with Vespula Sting and once or twice with Raven. He started taking cases on the amateur level, hardly being a qualified professional as it was. Adrian had a one night stand with the android Violet Rowes. He lied to her and is girlfriend Limerick. He felt so ashamed afterwards. Was he truly this week? Was he such a bad guy?
"Ah jeez. I don't want to talk about it. I wanted to die. I even tried. Didn't work as usual. I broke Judy's heart and lied to such an innocent and kind and loving girl like Violet. This is my worst mistake I've ever made. I hurt so many people, so many. All I've really contributed to the group was anger and sadness. So much regret. I really miss them all, they helped me when I was in a bad place. They were some of the best friends I've ever known. I'd love to be back on the team, but that's a bad idea. I don't want to hurt anyone again."
- A few weeks before the affair, Adrian was asked to leave the Eternals' roster. He had been receiving a lot of complaints from members and enough was enough. He also lost Judy, which was all he ever wanted and needed. At this time, Deviant stepped into play. He had been watching Adrian mess up, manipulating his actions subliminally. Now that everyone hated Adrian, he struck. He jumped Adrian and injured him severely, tossing him into Detroit River to be found. Several heroes assisted and rescued the teen, who was sent to MERCY hospital to recover.
- Judy, although still upset, said that she never wanted Adrian dead. She still loved him, but at the time she was still too hurt and pissed off to forgive him. Adrian waited for Judy though. However, later on, the two decided to at least have a "friends with benefits" relationship. A few nights into this new relationship, Judy revealed that she had feelings for Jill, and that she was addicted to her. The two had made out on occasion. Adrian died inside. he thought Judy was addicted to him, like she said so long ago. Now that she likes another, he knew she would lose her.
- Adrian strained and struggled to better himself. He took on more complicated cases and made quite a bit of money. Using his stash he had saved up for a new home, he took Judy to Disneyland where they had an amazing time. She still didn't take him back, but as long as he could get Judy to fall for him all over again, then he would be happy. Meanwhile, he tried to come into contact with his old teammates and tried to bury the hatchet. He is still trying to do this to this day.
- Recently, Adrian has sunk into a depression once more. He had been taking several anti-depressants and seeing therapists, but it seems to have no use. He has been losing a lot of friends, many of whom don't bother on visiting or calling him. Deviant, for the most part, has kept his space, which is fortunate. Now that Stitch is a free man, he has no one to spend his time with. His previous best friend, Britt Ashdown has been avoiding him. His ex-girlfriend Limerick hasn't bothered showing up. Adrian has been low on income and spends the majority of his days drinking time away at Shererra's. He has been thinking about returning home to Tucson, Arizona and start taking care of his sister, Marisol, who is living with their aunt.
"So that's, like, my story. At least most of it. I kept some stuff hidden to protect certain people. As you can see, I made a lot of mistakes that I still regret. Losing sleep, not eating, that sorta thing. But I'm getting better. My therapist is helping me a lot, as is Rhapsody. She helps me out too. I'm making friends again, and I'm registered with ASPRA. I hope no one hates me more than they already do. In time, I hope I'm not forgotten, and wish to get my friends back. I miss everyone dearly. I sometimes sit on my bed with my phone out hoping someone would call me. Eh...I know its sounds like I'm a bitch but that is far from the worst I've been called. Anyhoozles...that is my life. Most of it. Thank you for taking your time to review it."
- Over the past few months, Adrian has been laying low. He's been living as a hermit does, rarely socializing or stepping outside. He is seen at Shererra's Bar in Westside now and then, drinking down bottles of "Red Stripes". However, he doesn't talk to many people, and promptly returns home after nearly getting drunk. He's over everything that's happened: losing his girlfriend, being removed from a super group, hurting people. However, he's been taking his medication regularly. He doesn't "party" as often, and has altogether stopped alcohol and drug abuse. He's been seeing therapists and group sessions. He's doing well for a monster. However, he hasn't bothered contacting any old friends as they haven't bothered contacting him.
- Although quite poor and far down on the social scale, Adrian strives to have high hopes for the new year. Maybe it was wasted energy trying to mend old friendships. Many have made it clear how they felt about ol' Frankenteen. Whatever the case, Stitch plans on being a better person, by helping out causes, volunteering his time, and working to make the world a better place.
- With the new year around the corner, Stitch has big plans. After getting a job at Citadel Protection and a comm with the Civilian Protection Network, he's been working more and getting more money. He has started talking to old friends, like Anarchy, Lady Legion, and Divael once more. Along with them are new friends, young and old, men and women, who he hopes tolerate him enough. While he is single and a bit depressed/embarrassed about it, he doesn't mind. There's someone for everyone, he thinks, and when he finds her, he'll hold on tighter than ever before.
Appearance
- Stitch. That word in itself gives birth to a character all his own. Adrian has many bizarre and unique features. This is it in the most detail as possible. Adrian's most popular feature is his face. It is outwardly ugly. His entire left side of his face is stitched on green skin, horribly scarred. It stretches just beyond his nose and comes down to his chin. It stops right before his left ear. It resembles that of Frankenstein's monster. His left eye is blind and he often wears a solid black eye patch to cover it over. Underneath the eye patch, you'll find a pearl-white eye that almost glistens in the light. He shouldn't drive and he often gets migraines because of the only one sided vision.
- He has messy brown hair that is currently dyed black, thanks to Limerick. It is usually unkempt and brushed off to the side. It isn't long, but it also isn't short if it makes sense. He prefers to wear his black beanie, which is signed by both Thundrax and Sapphire. It is really old, much older than Stitch, and has threads missing here and there. It looks worn out.
- Adrian's entire body is covered in numerous scars and stitches. Some fine it attractive, but many more find it absolutely repulsive. He has been through quite a bit in such a short time, and his body shows. He is constantly in pain, limping and wincing as he goes about living. His body is rotting in some places, which may be why people at one time thought he was an undead zombie. As Adrian often says, his powers are not "100%". It shows. In the center of his chest is a heart shaped scar that always looks freshly healed. Hmm.
- Adrian has a tattoo here and there. His more notable one is a faded Mexican flag on his right wrist. Across it is "Viva la Raza" written across in lettering resembling barbed wire. It reminds him of his proud heritage, with ancestry stemming from Spain, Puerto Rico, and Honduras. He also has a small black tattoo of the French cartoon character "Calimero". He got it after Quintessence related him to the small bird. He also has one on his upper back between his shoulder blades. It is of Avenged Sevenfold's "Deathbat" logo.
- Adrian is quite fit for a young adult. He is, as some people would describe it, jacked. He mostly works out his abs and his arms, but ironically likes cardio exercises. He sports a very defined six pack and a sculpted chest, along with larger arms. However, he still has a slimmer build. However, don't expect him to be running around shirtless. His stitchings are often a put off and very grotesque indeed.
- Adrian often wears an old T-shirt and some ripped jeans to go out, usually wearing some newer basketball shoes or "Chucks". He wears jackets of all kinds, but lately prefers his brown and tan leather jacket with his "Thundrax: The Movie!" limited edition shirt. He also wears a black belt with a silver buckle for almost every outfit. Adrian also has his right ear pierced. but rarely puts an ear ring in.
Personality
- Adrian likes music and cannot live without it. He can't say he doesn't like one over the rest. One day he'll be listening to metalcore, one day dupstep, the next acid jazz. Back home he'd go to things like "Warp Tour", "KFMA Day", "Fall Ball", and the "I Heart Radio Music Festival". He dreams of becoming a musician. He plays acoustic guitar and showcases his skills at finger-plucking. He also plays some piano, but stopped when he gave away his old piano to Stellar. He also can sing. he's not great, but he's also not terrible; many other heroes he knows sing much, much better than he can. He used to sing for Marisol and now sings only for Judy, the love of his life. He also sings in the shower, to the annoyance of his neighbors. He sings that loud.
- Adrian also loves writing. He has written several short stories and poems. He's won two slam poetry contests at Pat's Coffee during their open mic night. He came in second and third place respectively. He writes a poem for everyone he knows and uses it to remember quirks about them that others may forget. This is a hard kept secret. Back in middle and high school, Stitch was bullied for liking poetry and his earliest stories were flushed down a toilet by the local bullies. Stitch's bookshelf is packed full of poetry books and novels. He can be childish with his selection and has many books he had when he was a kid.
- Adrian likes videogames. He has a full entertainment center jam packed with different consoles, speakers, you name it. He spends the majority of his income on technology. His favorite videogames are the Legend of Zelda originals, Pokémon, and Team Fortress 2. He also recently purchased Saints Row 4 and Grand Theft Auto V, and hasn't spent a lot of times outdoors since then. His Xbox Live gamer tag is "stitchd_glitchd9248" (This is not a real gamer tag. If it is, it is purely coincidental). He also is a very big fan of the Dead or Alive series, and entered a tournament. However, he lost early on to a big star known on YouTube as "Swoozie".
- Adrian does flirt a lot, more than he wants to. Again, this is due to both him being a young adult and his Histrionic Personality Disorder. He can be very romantic at times, or overly sexual and flirtatious. These two traits have gotten him into a lot of trouble and he's been charged with sexual harassment a few times. However, these charges have been dropped as part of a training program. Stitch also has very un-subtle eyes and hands. If he likes a girl, he'll make sure to eye their "goods" once or twice, or brush their arm or hand, or even their hair. However, he's stopped almost all form of flirting as a way to better himself and to win back the girl of his dreams, Limerick.
- Stitch claims to be a terrible dancer, but his Latino heritage begs to differ. He can shake his hips and swing his arms like a professional. He can tango and salsa quite well. He also is a "krumper" and has won numerous state championships. He won several talent shows in school and even danced off against Tight Eyez. Adrian of course lost. He still has his krumping routine memorized and occasionally busts out a dance move or two for no reason. Adrian doesn't like to dance with people though. It makes him nervous for some reason. The only person he dances with his Limerick.
- From a young age, Adrian has strived to make people laugh. He likes seeing people smile, especially now. He likes to tell jokes and poke fun at people, but he means no ill intent. He is very introverted and shy around new people, but that doesn't mean he doesn't like to talk. He just won't express himself as much as he would around close friends and family. He also likes to laugh and be in pleasant moods as well. He tries to be social, but his many mental illnesses and disorders ruin a lot of chances with making new friends or lasting relationships.
Powers
- Stitch has a very powerful ability to regenerate on a molecular level. The full extent on his powers is unknown. He has recovered from losing entire limbs. For small bruises or scratches, Adrian can heal almost instantly. However, he requires intense focus and concentration to heal the larger burns or lacerations. It is quite fascinating to see the wounds heal. Then the layers of skin would morph into one another, stretching as the bleeding comes to a stop. The whole process causes some agony, but Adrian is used to it by now.
- Adrian has used some of his DNA to create a formula. A secretive laboratory, run by a program called Manifest Destiny, developed a super serum that can regenerate a victim's lost limbs or recover from injuries. However, the injection causes severe pain and discomfort for a few minutes. However, 78% of test subjects, although in pain, successfully regrew their limbs. This project is still funded by private organizations to be distributed throughout the United States Military.
- Adrian is developing an added ability to compliment his molecular regeneration: nerve control. His control over his nervous system, mainly his pain centers, is developing strongly. He can hopefully eliminate the discomfort while regenerating or even just fighting crime. He is showing potential to improve as well. He is slowly getting better in the field and on assignment.
Equipment
- Dual Tonfas: Adrian's most signature and popular item is his pair of tonfas. They may be used to strike, jab, block, bludgeon and aid in the application of armlocks. His are made out of a steel alloy, and as Terminus says, laced with Kendrium. However, this is most likely a rumor. They are blunt weapons that really do hurt.
- Smoke Pellet: A popular device used by vigilantes, smoke pellets are used as a quick getaway, or as Stitch uses them, to be thrown in an attacker's eyes. He has many variations of the smoke pellet, particularly the "Dry Ice" pellets and the "Tear Gas" pellets. His dry ice bombs are thrown at an enemy. Upon shattering, it releases a small shard of dry ice which sticks and severely burns the skin. The tear gas, however, is more of a stun device and subdues them criminals rather quickly.
- Special Visions: Adrian's HUD helmet and green-stealth-suit-lenses have several specialties. One of his most favored enables him to see the blood-stream in a person. Usually utilizing this in drug-busts, Adrian can see a heart slowing down or speeding up and save the day accordingly. Another is a thermal vision, which he uses during apartment/car fires. And, of course, night vision, which allows him to see in the dark. He can also take short videos and several pictures with his helmet, and connect to social media.
- Stun-Gauntlets: Originally only used in Stitch's Rank 1 suit, the Stun-Gauntlets were a deadly piece of gear that were discontinued after a battle with a monster rampaging in Westside. Basically channeling electricity, arcing between his fingers, Adrian can wield lightning as a melee weapon. However, after grabbing Enerjuice's eyes while the Stun-Gauntlets were activated, he was put under a probation. Enerjuice was ok after the ordeal, but Adrian stopped using the weapon after the incident.
- Stealth Suit: Adrian's famous green pair of tights. Adrian has multiple versions of this, one with stun-gauntlets, one with a leather utility jacket, and one with mild light armor. However, every outfit has a hood that actually lowers psionic and sonic disruption. However, when fighting against telepaths, he chooses his fully armored HUD helmet, which has a wider array of features. His leather-jacket green suit has a rare feature, however, to turn partly invisible and to even regenerate with his wounds.
- Lock-Pick Ring: One of Adrian's most prize and unknown devices is his "lock-pick ring". A small item that has several thin bars of steel wrapped around a ring. Different corkscrew and needle like bars also accompany straighter bars of various sizes. He usually uses these when working for a client to break into locked doors, vehicles, or related locks.
Weaknesses
- Adrian has no mental or mystical defenses. His mind being already weakened is feeble against Psionics, telepathy, telekinesis, and all forms of magic, sorcery, and the arcane arts. Mixed with drug and alcohol abuse, Adrian hardly has a brain left. Yet he continues to learn and read and gain knowledge to better himself for his loved ones and work associates. His Helmet reduces some psychic frequencies, and his green suit's leather jacket has a hoodie that also reduces mystical interference, but only by a small 4%.
- Stitch is also highly superstitious, despite being strictly non-religious. He has numerous schedules and practices he does daily. Every birthday he watches an old home video of his third birthday while eating red velvet cake, a single striped candle, and a small conical party hat. He always hums while he cleans, he sings in the shower. If he is forced not to, he will freak out. He has his "routines" that he needs to finish before he can add anything to his schedule. He also doesn't like to celebrate Halloween for several reasons.
- Adrian is afraid of reptiles. When he was seven, he was bit by a rattlesnake. Miraculously, he survived, but he always had trouble using his left hand. Unlike most people, he uses his right hand primarily for everything, while everyone else typically interchanges between both frequently. He cannot stand being around lizards, and will go almost catatonic around snakes or larger beasts. Adrian also has a terrible, yet silly, fear of dragons.
- Adrian has a Histrionic personality disorder. This means he acts based on the following mnemonic called "P.R.A.I.S.E. M.E."
- Provocative (or seductive) behavior. Adrian has trouble around females and overly flirts with just about anything with boobs. He is often careless and violates one's space and privacy. He believes himself to be a Casanova, but the general populace find him to be a "creeper".
- Relationships are considered more intimate than they actually are. This is one of Adrian's worst flaws. He grows intimately close to complete strangers, specifically woman, and holds on to them. He thinks they like him for than a friend, which is often not the case. He is very jealous and paranoid about people and, as noted before, invades personal space and privacy.
- Attention-seeking. Stitch will do just about anything to get attention. He seeks drama, although he hates it, and tends to dominate conversations unknowingly. He tends to lie about his past actions to glorify himself. He often finds himself in harms way and over plays his role as a crime fighter. He does unnecessarily dangerous tasks to impress, which to him, is the only way he could make friends in high school. He didn't have the cool clothes, the latest technology. He didn't go to teen nights or make-out points every night. So he'd often be the class clown and do ridiculous stupid acts to get attention.
- Influenced easily. Stitch is not the smartest person around, which is bizarre, him being a private investigator (in training). He has no mental defenses as stated before. To add, his many mental illnesses and disorders affect his thought process and thinking ability. Whether directly or subliminally, you could get Adrian to do just about anything you want. This was mostly rampant in high school, and is not as bad as it was nowadays.
- Speech (style) wants to impress; lacks detail. Adrian has a weird yet colorful way of speaking. In conversations, he will try to dominate and throw out larger vocabulary to impress others. Many see through this and shut it down immediately. At least in his experiences, anyway. He often has trouble executing complex thought and struggles to explain certain things. He has issues expressing certain emotions, but not all.
- Emotional liability; shallowness. This is not as bad with Adrian as you might think. Yes, he does appreciate the curves of a woman and a pretty face. However, he really wants a "woman" not a cheap ride at the club. He always wants to prove he can be more of a man than his step father was, and tries to show the world he can treat a woman right. However, his complex emotions and critical problems prove trouble for Stitch.
- Make-up; physical appearance is used to draw attention to self. Adrian dresses to impress, wearing the latest shoes and jackets or what have you. Yet, he has grown to accept his grotesque face as something unique. He uses it as a beacon of sorts to draw people in. He often talked about his "defined" body or his "unique" face back when he picked up woman at the bars and clubs around Millennium City. He practically worships his hair and spends hours preparing it for when he has to go out.
- Exaggerated emotions; theatrical. Stitch has shifting emotions that change on a dime. He as stated before, is severely jealous of others and extremely paranoid. He has a quick temper and a short fuse, and will go from smiling to crying in moments. He sinks into one depression after the next and will often overly dramatize his feelings to "manipulate", as it has been called, others into liking him or feeling guilty.
- Another problem Stitch deals with is alcohol and drug abuse. In the past, Adrian has smoked marijuana and did cocaine, as well as numerous prescription pills. He also drinks a lot, although he's under aged. He has visited small therapy session with groups, and meets with his therapist, Dr. Barbara, to try and help him past his addictions. He has been clean of marijuana and similar drugs for almost two months now, and will only have a casual beer when going out to a restaurant or pub.
Friend or Foe
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"I have so much respect for Anarchy, even if I may have a funny way of saying it. I trust that she'll have my back on assignments and missions. She has a wide variety of skills and talents, and far too much experience. She's a teacher to so many of the younger heroes, and even some older than her. We may not always get along, but I could never resent knowing her. She's really cool and never ceases to amaze me."
"Bria is one of my oldest friends in this city. I think we're a lot alike. We've both got experiences we regret and ones that still make us afraid. She's really strong physically, but even stronger emotionally. Poor girl has been through a lot, so I try to comfort her. While we may be just friends, I'm glad. She definitely deserves more than I can give her."
"Bet you didn't see this one coming! Caliga and I go way, way back in the day. I was--for a time--homeless in the city, and some of his friends at East Briar Institute helped me out. Whether it was making me a good meal or clothing me, they looked out for me. I met Caliga a few days after. Those simple acts of kindness really change a man, y'know? Caliga is a loyal friend and ally, for sure. He's got the brains and brawn; lots of it! He can super-punch Grond, too, so yeah...I feel safer when he's around."
"Natasha is one of my best friends. I'm not sure she'd say the feelings mutual but whatever. At first, I thought she was really cold, but now I see that she's got a lot of wisdom. Her magic is really confusing, but I don't complain. She's healed me and helped me out of more than one problem. I'm thankful to have met her. She's got a lot of knowledge on missions and off. Plus she has big boobs."
"Katerra is one of my 'newer' friends. Yeah, I may throw a little flirtatious remark here and there, but I don't mean bad by it, it's just innocent. I respect her power and experience. She's definitely a powerhouse. She's intimidating at first, but I think she's really sweet and caring. I hope to work with her more on missions and stuff."
"She's one of my best friends. I met her when I was chatting up Bria Crawford at Club Caprice. Besides Bria, Krysta is the nicest person you'll ever meet. Sure, she's a bit crazy for a white girl, but she's full of heart. I feel like she truly is looking out for me, y'know? I really like her...not like that! I mean, I can't. But anyway, the platinum trio: me, Bria, and Krysta. We're really tight."
"Judy was one of the only people to have ever said they truly love me. That's something special, I think. I've worked with her on a mission or two, and from what I can tell? She's scary good. Even though we may not be for each other, I do hope in time she'll forgive me and we can be friends again. She's full of secrets and mystery, which I guess is half the attraction. I'm afraid for what our future will be like. Who knows, right?"
"Big blue is really an awesome guy, for sure. He's so out of this world. He's got a unique flair about him. I'm not entirely sure who or what he is, but I know it's cool. He's offered solid advice. I know we haven't worked on the field enough, but when we do, we just meshed well together. He's another person, or rather, another friend who I feel I can talk to. I hope to work with him more often, he's a solid dude. Literally."
"I've known the professor for a long time, roughly before I even started "heroing". He's helped me out in a variety of ways: building me little gadgets or helping me sort out my issues. Tink's a lucky lady. I've always wondered what happened to his arm. I'm afraid to ask, 'cause y'know...hammers. I often tease him a bit, but he knows i'm kidding. I think? We've gone too few missions. I think we make an unlikely team, but it'd work."
"Pulsar is, like, the most adorable super heroine ever. I haven't had the opportunity to really get to know her, but I know she's got far too much experience for someone her age. She's got a heart of gold and kicks butt. A good friend of mine, someone I can rely on. She's very friendly and personable, which is a great thing in my opinion. I wish I knew her better. She's really nice and has always seen me in a positive light, from what I could gather."
"Manon is a really good friend. It bothers me that she won't really tell her what's making her so...down. She's really, really powerful, no doubt about it. As much as as she's beautiful and kick-butt, that's not why I value Quintessence. She has just this thing that strikes me...she has a lasting personality. We don't talk much, but I'd like to. I also really hope we can work together more often."
"I feel like she honestly has faith in me. Like, she's always been really warm and welcoming to me. It's weird seeing her now that I know some things, but I won't go into details. She's an amazing musician and i know she'll raise a good kid. I think the belly's adorable. I don't know her super well, but...she's helped me out time and time again. Even though I don't like the things that she's been doing lately, I do think she's smart and knows what she's doing."
"Rocket Girl is Chicago's finest! She's such a nice lady, too. I wish I knew her better because I can tell she's a nice person. I met her a long time ago and have only talked to her as many times as I can count on one hand, but I can tell a lot about her and anyone in that short amount of time. She's got an uncanny duty to the people of both Chicago, Millennium City, and the world, and she won't quit. She's a fighter all right."
"Jessica is awesome. While we may not always get along, I have her back and I feel like she'd have mine, even if it was a bit reluctant. She really helped me gain confidence as a "hero", and has inspired me in a way that I can hardly explain. I do feel bad for treating her and everyone bad a while back, and I hope in time she can forgive me, too. I've been fortunate enough to work with Stellar, and I can tell she's smart and super duper powerful. I still promised to take her ice-skating, too."
"Stopmotion is super cool. I consider him a trusted ally, even if we don't talk much anymore. He's got all the style anyone could want. Where Colosso is the brains, Stopmotion is definitely the face, for sure. He's like my Latino brother...ok, we're not that close, but still. He's got the coolest clothes and even better powers. Stopmotion is the go-to super hero."
"I don't care hat you say, Vespula Sting is one of my most trusted friends. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the bee detective. He's the one who really inspired me to start taking some easy, amateur cases. He basically held my hand and encouraged me to use my brain more and more on missions. Plus, he's hilarious, but sometimes a douchebag. I feel that when I'm old and grumpy, I'll be just like bee-man. Except for those funny tights and googly eyes."
"I miss talking to Lorna. She is, in a major way, the reason I really joined the Eternals. She's smart and easy to talk to. I feel like I don't have to hide who I am. It's a shame that people don't take her seriously, though. I do. She kicks butt, for sure! I don't know what happened to her or where she's gone, but I hope she's alright. When she gets married, I plan on having a front row seat at the wedding."
"Jeanne is absolutely my best friend! One of my first friendship this hero career, Jeanne and me seem to just...get along. She's told me I'm a great guy, and that makes me feel good. We've gone on a lot of emergencies, relying on one another's skills to get the job done. She's taught me how to use my own 'unique' skills and abilities. She's a solid teacher and best friend."
"Yuki is one of my oldest friends. Yeah, like you expect, I had the longest crush on her. However, it's passed and I'm glad we're just friends. She scares me a little though. Can someone really control so much power, so much raw power? I don't know. If anyone could, it's Yuki."
Soundtrack
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Tropes & Hooks
Appearance Tropes
- I Just Want to Be Beautiful, Beauty to Beast: Adrian was a handsome young man. He never dazzled and people never did double-takes. He was so/so, but still not completely ugly. However, after Deviant's experiment, Adrian has gone from beauty to beast. He falls into a depression once in a while thinking about what he could look like. However, some people have told him he looks "unique", which makes him feel better. One day though, he hopes to find Adrian and stop being Stitch.
- Becoming the Costume, For Halloween, I am Going as Myself: As noted before, Adrian now appears grotesque. He looks like Frankenstein's monster. Many at first mistook it as a Halloween costume, which made Adrian feel really, really bad. However, he's grown to accept his new face. Everywhere he goes, people ask him what happened. When it comes to complete strangers, he'll change up the story. However, his close friends know the real story.
- Physical Scars, Psychological Scars, Every Scar Has a Story, Achey Scars: Adrian's body is covered in scars and stitchings. Absolutely covered, like a blanket. Some heal correctly, but some leave behind horrid wounds. They each have a story of their own. His skin is tough and rigid around his arms, his back, and his chest, all places he has the most scars. Some find the wounds fascinating, others find them gross.
- Compressed Hair, Hair Flip: Adrian has medium length hair and long bangs. His hair seems to fit neatly under his beanie, but doesn't make sense. He has a lot more hair than you may think. He will occasionally flip his hair in public, mostly on purpose to make others mad. His particular hairstyle is not super popular. He has dark brown hair, but it has been recently dyed by Limerick to a pitch black color.
- House of Broken Mirrors, Tomato in the Mirror: As noted, Adrian was not always disfigured. However, as time has passed since his incident, things have been getting bizarre for him. He can almost feel his sanity slipping from his tight grip. People are noticing him more and more it seems, and it bothers him. Still, he does tend to overplay his appearance and brings attention to his life problems. Even with medication and therapy, he isn't who he used to be, and is quickly turning mad.
Personality Tropes
- Apologizes a Lot, Self-Depreciation: Stitch makes a lot of mistakes and ends up apologizing a lot. Like, a lot! His eyes widen and twinkle when he's truly sorry, and will often look down or rub his neck, all part of his nervous habits. However, if he doesn't really feel bad, he'll run a hand through his hair, especially if he has his beanie on. When he apologizes, he will try to make the other person feel bad or guilty, but not on purpose. He will often go into a weird zoning-out phase and talk about how stupid he is and how he always messes up. This doesn't work on a lot of people.
- Hurricane of Puns, Late to the Punchline, Double Entendre: Stitch thinks himself to be a funny guy, but he's not really that hilarious. His jokes and pick up lines are really, really old and overly used by the media. Everywhere he goes, if he has the chance to make a joke or pun, he'll throw one out there. He's generally a jokester or a prankster, but can be serious if needed. He tends to be slow though with other people's jokes and won't figure out the humor in it until later. And as most people would assume, he has a dirty, dirty mind and will find something sexual in almost everything.
- Kind-Hearted Simpleton, Dumb is Good: Adrian is not the smartest guy in town by any means. He had a B- average in all of middle school and a C+ in high school. He tends to say stupid things a lot, especially when someone asks him an analytical question like, "What do you see here?". Be ready for a stupid answer. However, he tends to be good hearted when he tries to be despite making so many mistakes and hurting so many old friends. He's prepared to shelter those in need, feed them, or cloth them.
- Handsome Lech, Jerk with a Heart of Gold: Adrian tends to flirt a lot and strives to charm the pants off everyone. When he's himself, normal Adrian, people tend to like him. However, it is when he tries to be something he's not, a Casanova, when people shut him down. He has a poor reputation among the heroes of Michigan for this reason. However, he wishes no ill-intent on anyone and means well. He tries hard to make friends despite his many issues. He's caring and has a heart of gold. You just need to look deep enough inside Stitch.
- Enemy Within, Hearing Voices: Adrian has been losing his sanity as of late, and is displaying signs of this evidently. He claims to here voices in his talking to him and telling him what to do. He doesn't know if this is some sort of plot against him from another, or if he really is insane. Perhaps the enemy within, these "voices" are not a symptom of his madness, but rather, the cause?
Morality and Philosophy Tropes
- Well-Intentioned Extremist, Chaotic Good: Stitch believes that justice should be achieved by any means necessary. He is often arguing with other heroes and vigilantes about his own crime-fighting methods. Adrian's intentions are in the right place: he wants to make the world a safer place to inhabit. However, he disagrees with the "No-Killing" policies most heroes adopt during the course of their careers. Adrian will kill if he has to, and justifies it as doing the right thing. Stitch also strongly believes in doing what people want and not having others tell him what to do, which often gets him in trouble with authority figures.
- Pay Evil Unto Evil: Adrian believes that if someone has wronged you, you need to wrong them. This goes against Gandhi's quote, "An eye for an eye makes the world blind." Stitch will often go out of his way to punish a criminal. Someone stole a little girl's candy? Stitch will track down the guy and beat him up. He tends to be an extremist with his super hero career. He has been called out on this numerous times. He thinks all criminals should get what they deserve: a good ass-whooping and a tiny cell.
- Black and Gray Morality, Moral Dissonance: Adrian's viewpoint on killing, crime-fighting, and everything similar is all very confused. He tends to brutally beat up and even kill pointless minions and worthless thugs, but will generally resort to arresting criminals in the "higher-ups". Stitch has few redeeming qualities and many question what he's doing as a superhero in the first place. He asks himself the same question. He has the ability of regeneration and chooses not to waste it. So he goes out and fights crime and avoids the police.
- World Half-Full, Crapsack World: Stitch knows how dark and unforgiving the world can be. He has seen the limitless amounts of violence and greed the powerful control. He comes from a humble home where business owners and politicians control practically every aspect of our life. He knows the world is dark and eviler than ever, and wants to change it. He knows that everyone can be saved, just look at him, for example. So he puts on his suit, takes his gadgets, and saves the world, one crime-free night at a time.
- Being Tortured Makes You Evil, The Dog Bites Back: Stitch has had his fair share of life-changing situations. He has been beaten, tortured, injured, wounded, and even killed several times. Each time changes him for the worse. It is only a matter of time before he fully snaps and loses his mind, or worse: turns evil. His temper has grown, and he has become a depressing, aggressive, and violent man at times, especially when he drinks. Still, he isn't all bad, as some have discovered; but he is dangerous.
Combat and Skills Tropes
- Ass Kicking Pose, I Shall Taunt You: Stitch has a big mouth, and makes it known in a fight. He will throw out his pitiful jokes and lame jokes before a fight. This serves as his first defense. If the foe still wants a piece of ol' Frankenteen, he will assume a dramatic, over-the-top martial arts pose. He practices them as a way of calming himself and to look impressive. Before the fight begins he'll flail his arms, kick his feet, bend his limbs, whatever in order to look more impressive. Either way, he looks ready to whoop ass.
- Combat Pragmatist, No Holds Barred Beatdown: Stitch is a dirty fighter and often zones out when in a scrap. His underhanded moves and different holds are aimed to injure or even kill a combatant. He holds back to a certain degree when fighting friendly opponents in a spar. When on assignment or patrol, he lets loose and expresses his inner frustrations on the soon-to-be-nearly-lifeless bodies of criminals. He will do whatever he is required to win a fight. This is something Deviant instilled into his mind from a young age and is something Adrian has never let go of.
- Heroic Red Ring of Death, You Can Barely Stand: Stitch is a fighter. Not many people consider him to be especially skilled or talented, but he does know how to scrap. He learned a lot from Deviant's fight club and still uses the same dirty, underhanded moves to gain the upper hand. As stated, he will do whatever he can to win a fight, often pushing himself to hard or to his last breath. Although it is a rare event, some have seen Adrian actually pass out after a long fight, or stand a bit too wobbly after dispensing justice to some small-time crooks.
- Scary Musician, Harmless Music, Singing Voice Dissonance: Stitch plays acoustic guitar very well and has practiced for most of his young life. He practices a technique called "finger-plucking" or "finger-picking". He also writes some music and poetry based on his guitar rhythms. He also plays a bit of piano but gave his away to Stellar. He can also sing quite well, but never sings in public. Many don't believe he can be a good singer and he lets them believe that. He dreams of one day becoming a musician professionally and films home "music videos" of himself, guitar in hand, singing his own original music.
- The Dead Can Dance, You Said You Couldn't Dance: Stitch often tells people he can't dance. This is not because he lacks the ability, but rather that he doesn't like to dance. He is a state champion krumper and can tango, salsa, and even waltz on a very, very amateur level. He took dancing in high school. Haters gonna hate. It is often to the amazement of his partner to realize that the monster has some nice moves on the dance floor.
Motivation Tropes
- Kids are Cruel, All the Other Reindeer: Growing up, Adrian had difficulty making friends. He was always teased and bullied, often finding himself stuck in lockers or with his face shoved into a toilet. He's always been different than the other children his age. He's always been bullied, even nowadays. Despite what good parts of his personality he has, he will always be shut down or pushed away. So he fights to make the world more peaceful and inhabitable, and will always side with a bullying victim.
- Abusive Parents, Freudian Excuse: Growing up, Stitch had a hard family life with his step father around. He was often beaten with a wide array of household items. His step father would often wet a rope or cut some computer wire and chase Adrian around the house. His step father used to also grab and pull on Marisol's hair and smack her around. It was rumored he'd also sexually abuse them. Now that Stitch is a young adult, he strives to not be the evil monster his mother married. He still has nightmares.
- Heroic Blue Screen of Death, Heart Broken Badass, I Let Gwen Stacy Die: Adrian has used a lot of his passed failed relationships to strengthen his motivation and morals. He lost Liz and never found her. This motivates him to never give up and to keep trying, and to hold onto hopes and dreams. His girlfriend Amy killed herself. He blames himself for this and wishes he could go back. Now he strives to protect the innocent and never spill the innocent's blood. An unmentioned girlfriend, Sonja, was killed in an automobile accident. Adrian was driving the vehicle. A large U-Haul van struck the passenger side of Adrian's car. Sonja died eleven hours later. He is not as careless as he was previously. Their loses have all contributed to improving his career success.
- Matter of Life and Death, Not a Game: Stitch may seem immature and reckless, but it is a false front he puts up as a defense. He knows that the hero business is not a game and not to be taken lightly. He trains hard every day, mind and body, to better himself. His past experiences have proven that life is not easy or fun. Everything must be worked for. Nothing is simply handed to us no-strings attached. On missions, anyone could die at any given moment. You must be prepared for any and everything. Stitch knows this, but doesn't always act like he does.
- Because You Were Nice to Me, Jerka** Woobie, Monster Sob Story: Something Adrian longs for his acceptance and kindness, and notable, love. He does a lot for people, especially those he considers his friends (See Friend or Foe). However, he often will go to great lengths to make people happy simply because, "...they were nice to me". While he may come across as manipulative or pathetic, he doesn't mean ill to anyone.
Quirks Tropes
- Everybody Has Lots of Sex,I'm a Man, I Can't Help It: Adrian has to deal with being a young adult with impulse issues. Combined with the fact that the majority of his female friends are wearing skin tight colorful outfits, Adrian is at his weakest. Before he used to sleep around. He'd often patrol Club Caprice and bring home a babe almost every night. He has a lot of funny memories from that period of time. He is now going clean and doing his best to resist the urge to sex up the bar and clubs around the city. He still thinks about sex a lot, but keeps it to himself. He is oten seen zoning out, undressing women with his hazel eyes.
- Sex is Evil, and I'm Horny, The Masochism Tango: As of late, Stitch has really stopped trying to find "the one", and has stopped even pursuing mindless, guilt-free sex that he had become accustomed to. For whatever reason, hit seems he tries to hurt himself physically and emotionally in a relationship, and tends to push the other half away out of fear. Many have told him that he enjoys torturing himself as a result, but he denies all those claims.
- The Stoner, Beergasm: It is no small secret that Adrian likes to party. And he likes to party hard. He has a long history smoking marijuana. In fact, his neighbor back home in Tucson used to grow marijuana in her back yard. Stitch began smoking from a young age. He started drinking towards the end of high school. Getting a new face after a fake ID made things much smoother. He often gets really cheerful with a small amount of alcohol or weed. However, he has gone clean for his girl.
- Real Men Cook, Through his Stomach: Stitch absolutely loves to eat. He can put away an entire pizza box after a Thanksgiving feast in minutes. He is often seen snacking before, after, and sometimes during a crime-fighting assignment. He is also a very good cook, and an extraordinary baker. He has a weak spot for Red Velvet cake. IT takes a lot to impress his stomach, but if someone happens to do just that, he will do whatever they ask. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach, after all.
- You Can Leave Your Hat On, Nice Hat: Adrian is often seen sporting his infamous black beanie, signed by both Thundrax and Sapphire. He has had it for years and it shows. It has threads popping out everywhere, tiny holes visible, it looks generally worn out. He keeps it for superstitious reasons. He feels it is an extension of his own soul and cannot part with it.
Trivia
- Did you see the murder-mystery Indie film "Under Bloodied Mask"? Adrian starred in it as the detective. It currently has 36,412 views on YouTube. It is approximately 45 minutes in length. It has 318 dislikes and 299 likes. Adrian had an ok performance, but he is not an actor.
- Adrian occasionally visits MERCY hospital and cheers up the child patients. He enjoys seeing them but does not do it as much as he'd like to, due to his frightening appearance and scarred body. However, he still likes to visit the younger ones and offer reassuring and kind words. If you work at MERCY or frequently visit, perhaps you've seen him?
- Do you own an apartment in City Centre? Adrian rents one in Paragon Apartments, down the road from Darren's Pizza. It is fairly cheap. He rents his at $800.00 a month. He is often yelled at by his neighbors for loud music. At night Adrian is seen placing a bowl of milk outside his door for the alley cats to drink.
- Do you work at Darren's Pizza? Adrian is a frequent customer, seen there every Thursday and Sunday night if he has them free. He always orders a medium pepperoni pizza, which he eats along the side of the restaurant on the colorful benches. He occasionally orders a side of spicy buffalo wings with ranch dressing, but that is only when he feels "fancy".
- Are you a participant in the Metahuman research program "Manifest Destiny?" Stitch was a previous lab-rat until May 3rd, 2013, but was later removed after he failed a drug test. However, he stole some of the results. They had synthesized a serum based on his blood. It served as a minor stimulant to help victims regenerate. However, it causes extreme agony.
- His favorite movie is The Phantom of the Opera, the 2004 Andrew Lloyd Webber film adaption of the popular opera of the same name. He thinks it has everything good going for it and little to long for. He often teases that he is "the phantom", but doesn't mean any seriousness in that. He also helped Westside High School with the production of the play in their auditorium.
Gallery
By MusingMark
By Masamundane
By Leroy's Wish
By Leroy's Wish
Testimonials
- "I won't deny that he's a flawed being, but anyone that says they are not is lying to you. I just wish he could get his act together. I know there is some good in there somewhere. " - Limerick
- "A funny friend who has very few equal when it come to getting into trouble because of women. He is a big flirt but has no ill intent and means well." - Katerra
- "A friendly individual that I..."tolerate". Nonetheless, Conquer and myself regard him as an ally. And we crush anybody...that gives our allies trouble." - Caliga
- "I've worked with 'im on a few occasions. He's...slow. Not real smart. But hey, a meat shield's a meat shield. And he appreciates a good drink and a fine a**. Just don' 'spect me ta bring 'im aboard my ship." - Mojo
- "Dumba**." - Terminus
- "He's a young blood, so he comes with all the benefits AND all the defects. Try to focus Adrian, you're about to be something big!" - Quintessence
- "Kid has a lot of potential, I'll give him that." - Skull
- "Dumb as a brick." - Vespula Sting
- "Oh my youngin'? Aha, Chupe is gucci. We be tighter than a snake's grip, word to that. He aint got no bad intentions, atleast I hope not. I see him tho'... he ain't the smartest man in the world, but he still holds my respect. Him and his flirtin' a**..." - Bria Crawford
- "I've met him a couple of times and I felt his troubled heart and soul. I know he is nice deep inside but he need to focus and be good...I will be here to help him be sweeter and focused if he wants!" - Pulsar
- "Pretty damn sure this kid pissed himself, when I got some face time with him. Now don't quote me on that, but I could smell the fear seeping out from this unfortunate moron. I mean, tryin' to steal from my employer, with my boys on the compound grounds? Not a chance in 'ell." - Killshot
- "I don't know really what to say. I mean, I met him at a fruit stand. He kept making lame Looney Tunes jokes. But anyway, he seems ordinary. He also seems pretty cool. Cool as in laid back; chill. He's a nerd though...don't tell him I said that, please." - Coyote
- "I don't know what to make of him. He's not really smart and wouldn't stop talking about dating and the like. It was frustrating. I know he has potential, but right now he needs to buckle down and focus. No, not focus on girls or partying. The time for enjoying life had passed. Right now, he needs to train and work hard, and grow a pair." - Protostar
- "He's an...interesting individual. He surely has issues, no doubt. But on top of that, is a bit unfocused at times and tends to flirt with women. Fortunately, he's concerned with doing right and wants to make things right. He can't help who he is no more than I can't sleep at night. He may have flaws, but he's a hero that cares, and that's what matters the most."" - Captain Justice
