Mantis controlled his emotions until the leakage subsided, "Apologies, I do it without thinking." Then he continued to listen to the woman who's mind seemed to be in many different places at once. Was it because of the threads she mentioned? Hard to know. From what Mantis could feel about her, she seemed to be telling the truth.
The asking price of 500 was very reasonable. A chance to get at someone who was close to the ringleader was worth it. Mantis took out five 100 dollar bills and handed them to her, "We have a deal. For powers as desirable as your's I'm sure you are in high demand," he let the words sink in and continued, "I have a team and I'd be willing to take up jobs on your behalf in exchange for your services in the future." He did not use his manipulative powers in this case. She was too perceptive of that sort of thing, but when Mantis saw a good asset he wanted to make the most of it.
Not being able to use his power made Damien very perplexed. Someone was messing with his abilities. Whoever it was could not be taken lightly.
Once the meeting began, Swarm listened to the vigilantes and villains converse with an air of boredom. He perked up a little as the one named Chatterbox spoke. Any chance Swarm could get some territory and men was a reason for him to help these people. Selfish reasons of course. With his new ally of Affliction, they made a formidable team.
Just then, a new character strolled in calling himself the Broker. He seemed like the one in charge. He opened a case revealing a set of vials. Not just any, but one's which gave power. This is just what they needed to stand out among the plethora of gangs and law enforcement in the city. If they got a hold of those, people would have to take them seriously. And then they could destroy those Rockers as a side note.
Damien pulled out another cigarette as he pressed his current one on a plate at their table. After lighting it, he made his way toward the man without consulting any of his personas or Affliction. Even without his powers he felt like he owned the place. He spoke up to the Broker, "Reflections will help bring this community trash down in exchange for a number of these vials of our choice." It was a bold move. Damien was out of all Swarm's personas the most direct and grating. He did it with confidence, but, these things could backfire if The Broker took offense to his bluntness.