A mutant like me? Corrine

Being a mutant in the city wasn’t an easy one. Even a simple walk down the street often earned the young woman looks, many a gaze being wary or judgmental due to her obvious spikes. Corrine often could play it off as extreme body modification, following into their age of rebellion they seemed to be going through. But, the excuse didn’t always pass.

Today was no different as Corrine came upon the corner to cross to the opposite side of the street. She was minding her own business, simply waiting like any other citizen. But, as usual these days, her iron spikes caught the attention of the few people standing near her. “What do you know, it’s one of those freaks in the flesh.” A man sneered, other bystanders turning to gaze at the young woman who sunk slightly into herself trying to ignore the remarks. “Well mutie, just going to act like we don’t see you? Hah, shame you can’t be invisible!” The same man taunted, stepping forward to grab her arm. “Hey! Personal space buddy!” She finally snapped, ripping her arm from his hand but soon had others pressing a little too close for comfort, old jabs and taunts about her appearance and “her own kind” filling her ears.

“Back off!!” Feeling claustrophobic and her anxiousness getting the best of her, Corrine extended her spikes from various parts of her body, making them branched and jagged to keep the crowd at bay. Screaming and yelping with surprise, the crowd quickly scurried away, including the man that had provoked the reaction in the first place.

“Damn it...” She muttered under her breath, stepping away as her bones retracted back into their spots, wincing from the slight pain of the sudden and slow movements. It was only when she moved to lean against one of the buildings did she realize a younger female was lingering nearby, no doubt having seen the whole exchange. Great, just what she needed, explaining the unneeded prejudice to a teenager.

Well, that was certainly not the reaction she was expecting.

She had been experiencing a lot of new mutant interactions lately, mostly those who didn't have to deal with the glares and angry taunts like she did. They could hide their abilities so easily, making her somewhat feel out of place even among mutants. "That I am kid." She confirmed towards Laura, finally straightening her stance and trying to push aside her anxiety that still lingered. At least people were giving them space for the time being, letting the older mutant give her full attention towards this seemingly normal looking girl.

"And what exactly are your powers young one?" Corrine inquired. If anyone knew looks could be deceiving, it was her. Her mutation was quite obvious and in your face, an excuse could only work for with such a drastic and revealing power. But, maybe she wasn't as alone as she thought with such a mutation.