In a world where superhumans are bought and sold by corporate interests and children are pressed into heroism whether they like it or not, it can be difficult to tell the good from the evil. For Velma “Velveteen” Martinez, there was never any real chance for a normal life. Her parents sold her to the Super Patriots, Inc. as soon as her powers manifested, reasoning that the world’s largest superhuman management company would be better suited to care for her...and the money didn’t hurt. Before she knew what was happening, Vel was swept into a world of appearances and expectations, molded to become a hero and manipulated by the people she was meant to trust. Is it any wonder she walked away as soon as she had the opportunity? Now an adult, Vel has found herself swept back into the superheroic world, entangled with seasonal powers and fighting the people who were once her friends as she tries to retain her freedom, her independence, and her sense of right and wrong. What’s someone whose only power is bringing toys to life supposed to do? And is there any chance that justice will prevail? These short stories encompass the first two volumes of Velveteen’s adventures, from the very beginning to her climactic battle against the Super Patriots, Inc.