Four

June 2018-New York Earth 14-35

The weeks floated by with the 440 training. The training was more of an orientation as most of them had no idea what they could do, they knew no limits yet. So there was workouts done seeing how much one could lift; how fast could one fly or run; and even more test to see how tough some the of them really were. All was good and well.

Priest possessed a unique and potent ability that went beyond mere manipulation of information. His powers delved into the realm of perception alteration, allowing him to shape how people perceived and understood the world around them. It was far more intricate than a simple illusion or deception.

With a mere thought, Priest could edit a newspaper advertisement seemingly promoting innocent Girl Scout cookies. However, for his intended target, the message would transform into something entirely different, conveying a covert directive or secret communication understood only by them. It was a subtle and enigmatic power, capable of bypassing conventional defenses and infiltrating the minds of those he chose to influence.

Priest's abilities extended beyond just altering written text. He could modify the perceptions of individuals on a mass scale, manipulating their understanding of events, objects, or even people. It was as if he possessed the power to rewrite the very fabric of reality within the minds of his targets. He could have his hands in your pockets going through your change and to you it would be something else entirely.

This extraordinary gift made Priest an invaluable asset to the team. His powers of information manipulation provided a strategic advantage, allowing the group to manipulate and control situations with precision and subtlety. Whether it was influencing the thoughts of key figures, disguising their intentions, or creating intricate illusions, Priest's abilities proved indispensable in their mission to uncover the truth and navigate the complex web of deceit they found themselves entangled in.

Priest and Asche found themselves deep in brainstorming sessions, their minds intertwining with ideas and possibilities. They contemplated the extraordinary power that Priest possessed and how it could be harnessed to make Lost, their home, the center of the multiverse. Asche was determined to utilize the link Lost had with the eternal World Serpent Inn, a mystical nexus of dimensions, to anchor their world's existence in a profound and unshakable manner.

Their discussions centered around the concept of creating a powerful resonance within Lost, one that would reverberate through the fabric of reality itself. By tapping into the innate energies of the World Serpent Inn, they believed they could establish a permanent connection, an unbreakable bond that would draw all attention and scans toward their beloved home.

Asche envisioned a scenario where Gwen and her team would be unable to overlook Lost in their search for the Inn. The doorways to the World Serpent Inn would become intertwined with the very essence of Lost, making it an integral part of the multiverse's landscape. It would be a convergence point, impossible to ignore or dismiss.

The duo delved into intricate details, exploring the potential consequences and intricacies of such a feat. They understood that achieving this would require immense power, precision, and a deep understanding of the cosmic forces at play. But their determination was unwavering, fueled by their desire to secure Lost's place within the grand tapestry of existence.

Asche and Priest knew that their plan carried risks and challenges. Anchoring Lost to the World Serpent Inn would not only attract attention from their allies but also from those who sought to exploit or control such a powerful connection. They would need to devise safeguards and protective measures to ensure the integrity and security of their world.

Yet, with each passing moment, their vision grew clearer, the intricate puzzle pieces falling into place. The power of Information Alteration, combined with the mystical forces of the World Serpent Inn, held the potential to reshape reality itself. It was a bold and audacious endeavor, but one that resonated deeply with their shared purpose.

They continued their brainstorming, their minds aflame with ideas and possibilities. They knew that their plan would require collaboration, drawing upon the strengths of their allies and the vast resources at their disposal. With each stride forward, they moved closer to transforming Lost into a beacon that would not be overlooked, a radiant hub in the multiverse's vast expanse.

The road ahead was treacherous, but their conviction burned bright. Together, they would unlock the secrets of perception alteration, the mystique of the World Serpent Inn, and the power within themselves.

Asche and Priest sat in the sleek confines of Moondark, surrounded by cutting-edge technology and holographic displays. The soft glow of futuristic panels illuminated their faces as they contemplated their next move. Glasses of whiskey and the potent concoction called "Ampwell" stood before them, their swirling vapors adding an air of intrigue to the scene.

Asche, leaning back in his chair, took a sip of the amber liquid and gestured toward the holographic projection of Lost. "You see, Priest, our objective is to establish a strong connection between Lost and the World Serpent Inn. Once forged, this link becomes an intricate tapestry of realities, binding the two together in ways that cannot be easily undone."

Priest, his eyes focused on the hologram, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Asche, it is vital that we consider the implications of this connection from both sides. We must be wary of any potential incursions, whether from an alien realm or someone from our own world stumbling upon the Inn. Our defenses need to be as robust as our search for a cure."

Asche chuckled, swirling the whiskey in his glass. "You know, Priest, this Ampwell concoction is quite remarkable. It can even intoxicate the likes of us, Novas and all. Its effects are intriguing; it dilates your node, so to speak, allowing more quantum energies to be channeled in the use of a quantum power.”

Priest raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "So, this Ampwell is not just a simple drink? It has properties that align with our goals?"

Asche nodded, taking another sip before continuing. "Priest, Ampwell is more than a mere drink. Its unique blend of compounds amplifies powers and will allow us to tap into the depths of Information manipulation. With our combined abilities, we can hide the World Serpent Inn in plain sight, editing the perceptions of those who witness it."

Priest leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Asche. "So, your telling me that by altering the perception of others, we can weave a veil of deception around the Inn, making it appear as something ordinary and unremarkable?” Priest was visually in Awe, of himself.

“It will remain hidden from prying eyes while we continue our search for a cure within its enigmatic walls." He finished the swig in his glass and reached for the whisky bottle.

Asche smiled, his eyes glinting with a mix of excitement and determination. "By harnessing our powers and leveraging the potential of Ampwell, we can create a formidable defense and ensure that Lost remains protected. We will guard against external threats while delving deeper into the mysteries of the Rend."

Priest raised his glass, toasting to their shared vision. "To the intertwining paths of protection and discovery. May our efforts in establishing a strong perimeter around Lost and the World Serpent Inn bring us closer to unraveling the enigma of the Rend and finding a cure."

As they savored the rich flavors of their drinks, the holographic displays around them pulsed with data and imagery, reflecting their ongoing investigation. Asche leaned closer, his voice taking on a tone of excitement.

"As we establish this perimeter around Lost and the World Serpent Inn, we must consider the intricate interplay of perception and reality. Our manipulation of the external world must be seamless, blending seamlessly with the fabric of existence. We cannot afford any cracks in our defenses."

Priest nodded, his analytical mind processing the information. "Agreed. We need to anticipate every possible scenario and ensure that our protective measures extend not only to the physical realm but also to the realms of consciousness and perception. Our enemies may attempt to breach our defenses through psychological means."

Asche's eyes gleamed with a touch of mischief. "Ah, yes. The power of illusion and misdirection can be a formidable ally. With your abilities, Priest, we can create illusions so convincing that even the most astute observers will be deceived. We will craft a web of confusion and uncertainty for anyone who dares to approach unsolicited."

Priest's eyes sparkled with admiration. "Your insights are truly remarkable, Asche. By utilizing the strengths of our individual powers and combining them with advanced technology, we will create a defense system that is unparalleled. Our enemies will be met with an impenetrable fortress of perception."

As they contemplated their plan, the holographic displays around them shifted, showcasing intricate schematics and projections. The whiskey and ampwell continued to flow, fueling their creativity and determination.

Asche raised his glass once more, a glint of determination in his eyes. "To the fusion of minds, technology, and perception. Together, we shall safeguard Lost and uncover the secrets of the Rend."

Priest rose and actually walked out of the meeting room, perhaps he forgot he could fly. It was probably the first time in nearly a month that he used his legs for walking. With nothing more than a nod he made his way to the nearest teleporter and returned home. Asche stayed for a time longer.

Recently he had heard reports of some of the worlds higher tier novas beginning to show some form of psychosis. It started with an Elite named Mite, real name Alan Greer. Elites typically kept to the script, per se, and honored the contract to the letter in which they were employed. Most would not go above and beyond the letter of the agreement unless there was some form of addendum to the contract and they got paid. Well, in public Alan Green is a nobody, an unemployed bum who moves from beach to beach in search of the perfect wave. No one knew he was Mite and was a contracted and sponsored Elite. Not until a few days ago anyway.

All contracts are confidential between Elites and their employer. The details might be known but the figures and fine print are hush hush and under no circumstances are details let out disclosing names or other private details.

Two days ago Alan Green broke the façade and got into a bar fight in Brisbane after he claimed he was Mite and he was the one who destroyed the power grid in Greece. All of this to disable a security system so Mite could kidnap a team of researchers and destroy their computers. He revealed his employer was Aklan Alnari of Iranian Intelligence Services. Needless to say the repercussions both personal and legal are just beginning to mount. Some team members of Mite report he was beginning to act ‘strange’ a few weeks ago after a momentous battle with Syker, another elite who was employed by the opposition.

The ramifications of Alan Green's actions reverberated throughout the legal landscape, casting a shadow of uncertainty and raising numerous legal problems. As news spread of his bar fight confession, claiming responsibility for the destruction of the power grid in Greece and his involvement in a kidnapping operation, the consequences began to unfold.

First and foremost, Alan Green's public admission of his identity as Mite had severe legal implications. The Elite community operated under strict confidentiality agreements, protecting the privacy of their contracts and identities. By openly revealing his true nature, Green had violated these agreements, potentially exposing sensitive information to the public domain. This breach of contract would undoubtedly trigger legal consequences, including potential legal action from affected parties and organizations.

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Furthermore, Green's connection to Aklan Alnari of Iranian Intelligence Services added another layer of complexity to the situation. The involvement of a government agency raised concerns of international implications and potential diplomatic complications. This revelation would undoubtedly attract the attention of intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and legal authorities on both national and international levels.

The personal repercussions for Alan Green were equally significant. His admission of responsibility for destructive acts and involvement in criminal activities would likely result in criminal charges. Destruction of public infrastructure, kidnapping, and potential collaboration with a foreign intelligence service constituted serious criminal offenses that would require a thorough investigation and legal proceedings.

Additionally, the reports of Alan Green's behavior becoming increasingly erratic after his battle with Syker added a dimension of mental instability to the legal equation. This raised questions about his mental state and potential psychological factors contributing to his actions. It would necessitate a comprehensive evaluation by psychiatric professionals to determine the extent of any mental health issues and their relevance to the legal proceedings.

The legal problems surrounding Alan Green's actions were far-reaching and multifaceted. They encompassed breaches of confidentiality agreements, criminal charges, potential diplomatic tensions, and considerations of mental health. Legal teams and authorities would need to navigate through this intricate web of legal challenges, gathering evidence, conducting investigations, and ultimately bringing the necessary legal actions against those involved.

As the legal process unfolded, the true extent of the fallout would become apparent. The impact on the Elite community, the affected researchers, and the larger world of novas would be significant. The resolution of these legal problems would require a delicate balance between accountability, justice, and the preservation of the fragile equilibrium within the community.

The urgency to extract Alan Green, also known as Mite, from the volatile situation he had created was undeniable. His open confession and involvement with Iranian Intelligence Services presented a significant risk not only to himself but also to the stability and security of various entities involved. The need for a safe house where he could be debriefed, assessed, and potentially treated became imperative.

A team of specialists would be assembled, including experienced operatives and medical professionals. Their primary objective would be to ensure Alan's safety, both physically and mentally, while gathering crucial information about his activities and connections. The safe house, carefully selected for its discreet location and fortified security measures, would serve as a sanctuary for Alan during this critical period.

Upon arrival at the safe house, Alan would undergo a comprehensive debriefing process. Skilled interrogators and intelligence analysts would extract every detail regarding his involvement with Iranian Intelligence Services, the extent of his activities, and any potential threats or ongoing operations. This information would be crucial for ongoing investigations, intelligence gathering, and countermeasures.

Simultaneously, medical professionals specializing in the unique needs of novas would conduct a thorough assessment of Alan's physical and mental well-being. They would evaluate any signs of psychological distress or instability that could have contributed to his recent erratic behavior. With appropriate care and treatment, they would aim to stabilize his condition and mitigate any potential risks.

Throughout his stay at the safe house, Alan would receive round-the-clock protection and support from the security team. Advanced surveillance systems, reinforced barriers, and vigilant personnel would ensure that no unauthorized individuals could compromise the operation or pose a threat to Alan's safety.

As the debriefing and treatment progressed, a legal strategy would also be devised to address the impending legal challenges. Legal experts familiar with the intricacies of elite contracts, international law, and criminal proceedings would work closely with the team to develop a comprehensive plan. This would involve assessing the potential charges, negotiating any potential cooperation with authorities, and protecting Alan's rights within the legal framework.

The safe house would serve as a temporary sanctuary, allowing Alan to recover, cooperate, and contribute to resolving the intricate web of legal and security challenges that lay ahead. It would provide a controlled environment where he could receive the necessary support and guidance, ultimately working towards a resolution that balances accountability, rehabilitation, and safeguarding the interests of all involved parties.

In the face of such a complex and high-stakes situation, the safe house would serve as a pivotal hub, orchestrating the critical processes of extraction, debriefing, treatment, and legal planning. The success of this operation would depend on the expertise, resourcefulness, and coordination of the team entrusted with Alan's well-being and the pursuit of justice.

That’s how the plan laid out on paper anyway.

Reality turned into a shitstorm when Alice started the surveil. She was an Intel Op and her powers made her perfect for the job. She was able to become invisible and completely intangible as well as generate a silence field around her. Her callsign became Figment.

Figment was in no manner in danger but after following Alan into a Brisbane bar, not the same one he was in a fight at yesterday, she immediately spotted the opposition. “We have the Directive here guys.” She sent subvocally to her team.

Taki and Jameson were on the same block on the roof of adjacent building. They had all the gear for subduing Greer but they weren’t set up for conflict, especially with the Directive.

“How ya know it’s directive?” Jameson replied.

“I would know their agents a mile away, literally. “ She giggled a little. “Remember I am trained at this, they way they walk and work the room. There are 3 of them and they are setting up to use Eclipsidol on poor Mite.”

Eclipsidol was non-lethal, not to Nova’s but if a baseline human was unfortunate enough to get hit or be in the area effect, the immediate symptoms were horrifying. They would sure wish they were dead as they began wrenching out everything they ate the last 2 days, from both ends. All that while violently convulsing passed out on the floor.

“I am getting closer to see what their saying.” Figment said as she walked through the room and its occupants. She still got all giddy when she walked through someone as her intangible form allowed everything to pass through her. She casually and slowly walked imperceptibly toward the closest Directive agent. She was close enough to kiss him.

After a moment or two the agent faked an ear itch to adjust his hidden earpiece. He was simply nodding as if to the music but he was obviously getting orders. It was bright idea time for Figment as she phased into the mans body and tried her best to take his exact pose, especially trying hard to line up here head and ear canal with his.

As Figment merged with the Directive agent, her senses expanded to encompass his consciousness and perceptions. It was a delicate dance, synchronizing her intangible form with his physical body, aligning her thoughts and movements with his to maintain the illusion of normalcy. The Agent all the while completely oblivious to any of the goings on.

From within the agent's head, she listened intently to the incoming orders. The voices crackled through the hidden earpiece, their tone laced with authority and urgency. The Directive was coordinating their next move, and Figment was determined to gather as much information as possible.

As the conversation unfolded, she caught glimpses of their plan. They intended to use Eclipsidol grenades on Alan Green, a calculated move to incapacitate him without causing permanent harm. The non-lethal substance was their weapon of choice, exploiting its devastating effects on baseline humans. It was a cruel tactic, one that would leave the target in a state of excruciating pain and vulnerability, not to mention the collateral target baselines. They were then going to carry him out back

With her mind racing, Figment knew she had to act swiftly. Disengaging from the agent's body, she stealthily slipped away unnoticed, returning to her team's secure communication channel.

"Jameson, Taki, we've got a problem," she relayed urgently. "The Directive plans to use Eclipsidol on Mite. We need to intervene, but we have to be careful not to escalate the situation."

Jameson's voice crackled over the comms. "Understood. We're ready to move, but we need a plan. Figment, any ideas on how we can neutralize the threat without causing unnecessary harm?"

Figment pondered for a moment, her mind racing through different possibilities. "We could try to disable their communication devices first, cutting off their orders and coordination. It might buy us enough time to extract Alan safely."

Taki chimed in, his voice filled with determination. "I can hack into their network remotely. If I can disrupt their communication, it should create enough chaos for us to execute a clean extraction."

Figment nodded in agreement. "Good. Let's coordinate our moves carefully. We don't want to trigger a full-blown confrontation, but we need to ensure Alan's safety and gather any intel we can."

With their plan forming, Figment, Jameson, and Taki prepared to execute their coordinated intervention. The stakes were high, and the delicate balance of power hung in the air. It was a race against time, with the lives and fates of multiple individuals at stake. If the Directive tried to get Alan in the bar with the grenade, there would surely be multiple baselines hit; their reactions could be tragic at minimum, fatal at worse.

Kat moved with purpose through the crowded Brisbane bar, her eyes fixated on Alan Green, alias Mite. The man had been compromised, his true identity exposed, and now it was up to her to extract him from the imminent danger that surrounded him.

As she approached Mite, a surge of energy flowed through her. It was her power, the ability to subtly manipulate minds and perceptions. She had honed this skill to perfection, a weapon she would employ with utmost precision to accomplish their mission.

"Alan," she called out, her voice carrying a soothing tone that seemed to cut through the cacophony of the bar. "We need to talk. It's urgent."

Mite glanced up, his eyes meeting Kat's. There was a flicker of recognition in his gaze, a glimmer of trust that had been shattered with recent revelations. He hesitated, unsure of whether to engage or flee.

"Trust me, Alan," Kat continued, stepping closer to him. "I know what's going on, and I can help you. But we have to leave. Now."

His brow furrowed, Mite seemed torn between disbelief and the desperate need for salvation. Kat extended a hand, her touch gentle yet purposeful. In that moment, she used her power to weave her words into his mind, reinforcing the sense of urgency and the trust she sought to establish.

With a sigh, Mite relented, allowing Kat to guide him away from the bar's pulsating heart. The room seemed to blur as they walked, their steps taking on an ethereal quality, barely noticeable amidst the throng of patrons.

As they approached the exit, a surge of apprehension coursed through Kat. She knew that the Directive agents would not let Mite slip away so easily. Their presence loomed, ready to pounce upon any opportunity to reclaim their compromised asset.

Just as they neared the door, a sharp voice pierced through the air. "Stop right there!"

Kat's heart skipped a beat as she glanced over her shoulder. Three imposing figures stood in their path, their eyes locked on Mite. These were the Directive agents, unforgiving and relentless in their pursuit of their objectives.

Figment, her trusted ally, remained in the room, observing the unfolding scene with a mix of apprehension and readiness. She knew that any misstep could trigger a dangerous chain of events. Her invisibility shrouded her form, allowing her to remain undetected by the agents.

Jameson, their skilled combat specialist, stepped forward, a calculated resolve etched upon his face. He knew he had to buy Kat and Mite the time they needed to escape. His instincts kicked into high gear, scanning the surroundings for any available resources that could aid him in this impromptu clash.

In the blink of an eye, a tranquilizer dart whizzed past Mite, narrowly missing its mark. The Directive agents were not taking any chances, resorting to more extreme measures to ensure their asset's capture. It was a clear indication of their determination and the escalating stakes of the mission.

Without hesitation, Jameson lunged into action, engaging two of the agents in a flurry of hand-to-hand combat. His movements were precise, a seamless blend of skill and raw power. He dodged their strikes with agility, countering with devastating blows of his own.

Kat seized the moment, her power of persuasion amplifying. She locked eyes with Mite, her gaze emanating a magnetic force that drew him closer. Her words resonated within his mind, imbuing him with the conviction and trust necessary to break free from the clutches of the Directive.

"Believe in me, Alan. Together, we can escape this nightmare," she whispered, her voice carrying a soothing

cadence that washed away his doubts.

As the clash between Jameson and the agents intensified, the chaos within the bar grew. Patrons scattered, seeking refuge from the unfolding turmoil. The scene had become a battleground, a clash of wills and ideologies.

With a surge of determination, Kat extended her arm, her power manifesting in a shimmering display of energy. She beckoned Mite to take flight, their bodies becoming weightless as they soared through the air, their speed matching that of a shooting star.

Figment remained behind, vigilant and watchful, ensuring their escape route remained clear. Her intangible form allowed her to pass through obstacles effortlessly, keeping a keen eye on any unexpected threats that might arise.

Together, Kat and Mite vanished into the night sky, leaving behind a maelstrom of conflict and uncertainty. The repercussions of their actions would reverberate far beyond the confines of that bar, altering the intricate web of alliances and power dynamics.

In the distance, the faint echoes of Jameson's struggle reached their ears, a testament to the sacrifices made in pursuit of their mission. The weight of responsibility settled upon Kat's shoulders, a reminder that their journey was far from over.

Amidst the chaos of the bar, Jameson's relentless assault had taken its toll on the Directive agents. With calculated precision, he incapacitated the remaining two adversaries, leaving them sprawled on the floor, their defeat evident.

Figment, invisible to the agents, maintained a watchful eye on the situation, her presence a hidden guardian ensuring the safety of her allies. She swiftly retrieved any discarded weaponry, securing it to prevent further danger.

Taki, their tech specialist, emerged from the shadows, his calm demeanor contrasting with the frantic energy that had consumed the bar moments ago. He scanned the area, assessing the aftermath of the conflict and providing a valuable perspective on the unfolding events.

"Nice work, Jameson," Taki commended, his voice laced with a mix of relief and admiration. "You handled them like a true professional."

Jameson's gaze shifted from the subdued agents to Figment, invisible yet ever-present. He nodded in appreciation, acknowledging the crucial role she had played in their success. It was a testament to their synergy as a team, each member bringing their unique skills to bear in the face of adversity.

As the dust settled, the patrons cautiously ventured back into the now-quiet bar. The tremors of the clash still lingered, etched into the memories of those who had witnessed the extraordinary display of power and conflict.

Jameson's attention turned to Taki, his voice a low, determined tone. "We need to gather any evidence we can find, anything that might shed light on the Directive's intentions. This operation goes deeper than we initially thought."

Taki nodded in agreement, his fingers deftly manipulating the various devices in his possession. He meticulously combed through the remnants of the battle, retrieving hidden cameras and encrypted data that could potentially unravel the mysteries shrouding the Directive's actions.

Meanwhile, Figment reappeared, her invisibility dissipating. She approached Jameson and Taki, a sense of urgency in her eyes. "We can't waste any time. Kat and Mite are counting on us to uncover the truth and ensure their safety."

The trio quickly synchronized their efforts, aware that their actions in that bar were merely the beginning of a complex and perilous journey. They would need to rely on their skills, resourcefulness, and unwavering loyalty to navigate the treacherous landscape that lay ahead.