One

April 2018-New York Earth 14-35

After losing so much, so many times, Asche decided to give up. Maybe it wasn’t giving up, not in the most literal of ways. This place, this time was not his own. He wasn’t home and right now he had no way of determining how even to get home. He hadn’t had a way now for centuries. The company he founded and the people he trained had more of a chance in finding him than he finding them. It was safer for them anyhow. He had made all the arrangements and lacings of power to leave a primal ‘breadcrumb’ for Gwen or whoever might know how to look. In the meantime, he had a club to run.

Lost sat nestled up against the museum of man and was across the street from Battery Park in Manhattan. Lower Manhattan but still Manhattan. This was one of the few nexus left in the world and had the largest selection of non-wine alcoholic beverages. The three-level bar had enough room for just under 250 patrons and the wrap-around upper levels had a full view of the small stage that boasted the center of the first floor. It wasn’t a dance club but Lost had been host to a select group of musicians as they set up rather intimate and personal concerts over the past 110 years. Asche opened it up originally as a simple lean-to pub or tavern in the very early 1600’s when the Dutch had set up a community here. They had positioned a battery of cannons that faced out over the water where the East River and the Hudson met, thus the name of the park. The future history’s he knew allowed him to purchase large areas of land before the area became what it should. Lost had a mixed history but it had to be.

The décor was mostly dark woods but in a classic style that was timeless and modest. The stools were padded and comfortable, the tables were clean and the floor wasn’t sticky. When open for business the lights were never brighter than late dawn; no one but Asche knew how to brighten them anyhow. The bar ran a semi-circle starting at the double-door entrance halfway around the exterior wall of the room to the entrance to the kitchen, which was exactly opposite the entrance. Behind the bar in LED-lit glass shelving sat all the various spirits and tonics Asche had sampled and collected since he’d been on Earth; most did not recognize half the bottles.

The manager and head-bartender just called himself Priest and had been one of the 100 men Asche had brought with him from home. He was a Company man from the Security division but even Priest was beginning to suspect Asche had done ‘something’ to Lost or was the only one in the know. A few months ago Priest was working a shift and was always more than aware of everyone who entered. At any time he could tell exactly the count of customers and could give a face to all of them. Asche had told him to let him know if he saw anyone he didn’t see coming through the front door. He thought that was an odd request but when Priest pointed a few people out to Asche, he simply thanked him and asked him to pay no mind.

It hadn’t happened again until last night and to Priests trained eye, the visitor this time was not native to here, not to this time or place. It was a woman of simply inhuman beauty and poise. He was thankful it was a Tuesday early evening or there would have been a disturbance. Asche met her and saw her upstairs to the employee lounge and returned without her. Priest never saw her leave and Asche left before closing so he couldn’t see what was up.

The next day, Priest got out of bed at 7 am as per usual. Before he started the Bar gig, he got up near 4 am when he did get to sleep at all. His life running ops for Pax Con had constant demands and stress that demanded much more of his time. When the Rend came and wiped out the best part of the universe Asche seemed to have gone mad after a while. All effort was focused on finding the cure but it eluded the strongest efforts of the unbridled strength of Pax Con. None of the Quantums or Asche with his access to countless hyperintelligent AI were able to come up with a treatment. During those past days, Priest had 2 weeks of work to fit into a single day sometimes. There was never enough time.

Seven years after the Rend Asche asked for volunteers from Pax Con. He never said for what exactly; even he didn’t know what he was going to do in detail. He only knew, or rather, he believed there was a cure somewhere else, in one of the tangent parallel realities. So, of the nearly 20,000 agents who volunteered, Asche handpicked 100 from various divisions and specialties. They all gathered equipment into decamolar storage devices as well as carried as much hard-spaced gear as they could. The latter was done in case the new reality damaged the decamolar containment devices. The rift in space-time was opened deep within the vaults of the citadel and the team named ‘Team 1158’ left their home earth. They didn’t even suspect though, that the science they used to leave their time-line was one-sided and the way home was beyond their current understanding.

Asche had defended the team in their activities over the millennia here and never once had allowed anyone to die. So the entire hundred-man team was still here. Still fighting or doing whatever it was they were tasked to. This itself was a testament to the conditioning they all received in training; what man could live this long and not desire an end. Desire death. No, none of them wanted to betray their ever-loyal Director as he had never allowed any of them to want for anything. Their lives were far from perfect but for the most part, all were content with their contribution to humanity and the cause. No one ever doubted Asche even when he was being enigmatic because he eventually informed them of everything when he himself was certain of a thing.

This time was no different than other times and Priest told himself to wait it out, this morning ended the wait.

“Hey Priest. Good morning. I thought I would set up for you today.” Asche greeted Priest with a head nod as he placed a few boxes of booze down on the counter.

Priest rarely got to see Asche in the bar this early. He didn’t know what his patron did in the mornings but it usually was not manual labor.

“Asche.” Priest was a man of few words.

No others were in Lost at the moment; a few other enlightened staff not including the bouncer were due in around 10 am. They had a couple hours yet.

Asche opened up the three large boxes he had hefted from the back room, glanced at the contents quickly, and then began picking up the now-empty boxes. He had used one of the many abilities in his arsenal for a rather mundane task of ‘folding’ the bottles and jugs into their respective locations.

Priest had a short recollection of a memory of a time long ago when he had led the team against this man in front of him today. He was glad that reason prevailed on that day. For both of them; the barkeep determined that his patron was in a bitter mood this morning.

Exactly 21 minutes before the door was unlocked to the public, yes Priests mind worked like that, he was told in no small words; the life you have led for over the last five hundred years is over, Changed. What Asche presented him with was not an opportunity to get back to what life was like in the “good O’l days” but something even more enticing.

Like all of the roster of Pax Con, Priest was groomed and observed prior to being approached with an offer to enlist. What Asche presented him with now was the chance to never had even suspected that something was wrong in reality. What some might have called “getting the curtain pulled back” or ‘the red pill blues’, Knowing was always the problem, and knowing always placed a level of responsibility on the learned.

“Of course I am in. I am always in Asche, even when I only I am sure I don’t know the whole story.”

It had been sometime before this last journey, over 5 centuries past, that he ever even suspected he was not being given the whole story. He was loyal though, to a fault. If he had any doubts he was not seeing the whole picture his desire, and ability to question deeper was gone long ago. He knew in whatever form it took, it was always in everyone's best interest to go along with Asche.

“It has been over thirty years since the coming of the Quantums on true-earth. It has been long enough for them to grow in power and develop a place for themselves. Hell, it was almost done when we left so long ago. With every breadcrumb we left they should have made contact by now.”

Asche let the thought sink in a bit with Priest before adding; “I think the leadership needs changed. Upgraded or something. I am considering an avatar or complete transition of persona because it’s painfully obvious I have failed. I let myself get emotional with Gwen and others over the years.”

He shook his head and walked over to the managers' desk and retrieved a small half-empty bottle of whisky. He poured several fingers worth into a glass and sipped staring out the window into the bar.

Priest knew that Asche always chose his words and that he often only thought of things at length if he had already determined a desired end result. There were still too many questions though; Why the conversion to a World Serpent? Why is he dealing with the Sidhe again?

“What’s that mean for Sophie and the ‘Inn’ here now? We certainly are not entirely set up here right now for the possibilities a nexus brings?”

Priest retrieved the bottle of whisky and took a mouthful from the bottle. Asche read his body language and knew Priest was not done and took a drink from his own glass.

“And does that mean Glean will remain here or is he the one you are considering placing in a leadership role?”

Asche smiled.

“Glean is ok with leading a team of Quantums, not something like we have here though. He cares too much, more than me even. We need someone more ruthless and callous.”

Ash paused thought process. It wasn’t often that he got insights from anyone else after contemplating some thing for so long, but he could see the reservations in priest. Perhaps it was time to listen to an outside source and not put all the decisions on his own shoulders.

“ do you know what priest you’re right. Damn the paradox and damn what other people are going to think. But we are going to need to make some hard decisions and there’s gonna be some drastic changes.”

Asche took the last large gulp from the glass.

“Shit. I am desperate and tired of waiting for results. Pass the word that there’s gonna be a slight change in the program and try not to make it sound like I’m psychotic.” Ash, endedthat last sentence with a grin.

“We have a hundred razor-edged operatives here Asche. The pick of the litter. I would like to think they, we, could handle an update or revision to our mission statement. Just say the word man and we’re shifting gears.”

Asche opened a cabinet and withdrew a new bottle of some overly expensive whisky. He examined the bottle a moment before removing the cork. After pouring another four fingers he carefully sipped and stood silent a moment. His pours were always generous and as far as he went, it was only for taste. No alcohol on earth could even come close to affecting him. This talent was never boasted about or confirmed by him but many an ego was squashed if it was dependent on out-drinking Asche.

“Priest. You have been a loyal friend and have given more to me than the next 100 operatives. This is something you are going to have to trust me on. I have been pondering this for weeks now; that’s decades of planning with your thought process. “

Priest knew he was right. Asche was among the most intellectually ‘powerful’ people he had ever seen. On their earth, he saw him reveal so many truths from String theory to agriculture. He was way more than just a human calculator. Asche didn’t think just 10 moves ahead on the chessboard, he thought 100’s of moves ahead on thousands of boards. The man could calculate hyperspace jumps 100’s of lightyears out faster than the flight computers. If he asked Priest to trust him what he was really saying was that there was no way Priest could begin to comprehend any of the reasoning and it would take too much time to explain.

“Ok. “

Priest reached for the new bottle and gave himself a good long pour. He swirled the elixir around the glass and took a sniff.

“Nice! The Good stuff.”

He took a manly mouthful and gulped it down with pursed lips and a twitch of the head.

Asche nodded approvingly at Priest's acceptance and took a sip from his glass. The two men stood there, silently contemplating the changes that lay ahead. The weight of their responsibilities and the unknown future weighed heavily on their minds.

In the midst of the uncertainty, Asche couldn't help but appreciate the loyalty and dedication of his friend. He knew he could count on Priest to support him, no matter what. Together, they would navigate the challenges and make the necessary hard decisions for the future of their team and the world.

As the doors of Lost were about to open to the public, the atmosphere in the bar shifted. The quiet anticipation of change mingled with the aroma of fine whisky, creating an air of both determination and acceptance. They were ready for what lay ahead, ready to face the unknown and shape their destinies.

Little did they know that the choices they were about to make would have far-reaching consequences, not just for their team and the Quantums, but for the very fabric of reality itself. The stage was set for a new chapter in their lives, one that would test their loyalty, courage, and resilience like never before.

Late that night Asche was standing still with another glass of whisky in hand. He was staring intently out a 130th floor window looking south over the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridge. This was his and Sophie’s penthouse and he stood in the library at the moment. The other side of the floor in the library had a view of the World trade towers; in this world there was never the attack of 9/11. It was another among countless tragedies that he could not allow to repeat itself here. Arriving on this planet so long ago the first mass death event the company intervened in was the Massacre of Xuzhou. There were many after that but Asche reminisced that event as the single point that redirected the path of this earth's future. His moral compass was flawed now and he fought often to correct it.

Above all, he dearly missed Gwen. All of his power, all his knowledge, and he could not safely find her or bring her to him. Wondering about her and her happiness was a distraction he often indulged in to occupy his time. Then there was Sophie. This young woman had been with him now for over 6 years. She overcame drug addiction and a horrible past and was now a ward of the Lonn estate. Of course, she was more than that to him but on paper, she was the sole beneficiary of the rights and direction of Lonn Medical and Securities. It was for her that he waited now. The nineteen soon-to-be twenty-year-old was running late for return home after her classes. It was after 9 pm and Asche fought back a twinge of worry as he noted the millisecond's pass.

Sophie had been trained and conditioned as a Rathien citizen, complete with all biomodifications that made her immune to nearly all pathogens and earthly environmental dangers. She was even dosed with anti-agathics that would stop her aging completely at an age just at the peak of prime; usually around age 23-26 for most humans. He had trained her personally in self-defense and escape and evasion techniques to the point that Sophie could lose a tail from the most devoted CIA or FBI agent. He told himself he shouldn’t worry.

This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

Asche took another sip of whisky, trying to calm his racing thoughts. He knew he had done everything in his power to prepare Sophie for any situation, but the inherent worry of a guardian still lingered within him. He reminded himself of Sophie's capabilities and resilience, hoping that she was simply caught up in the busyness of her day.

As time ticked by, Asche's worry grew, and he found himself glancing at the clock more frequently. He debated whether he should reach out to Sophie or wait a little longer, not wanting to infringe on her independence. He had promised her one time that he would not contact her with telepathy unless it was a emergency; she was having hard time adjusting to the voices in her head not her own. But as the minutes turned into hours, his concern became overpowering.

Finally, unable to resist any longer, Asche opted for his phone and dialed Sophie's number. His heart raced as he waited for her to answer, hoping for her reassuring voice on the other end of the line.

The phone rang several times, and just as Asche was starting to lose hope, a familiar voice finally answered.

"Hey, Asche, sorry for not picking up earlier. I got caught up with a group project after class, and it took longer than expected. But don't worry, I'm on my way home now," Sophie said, her voice laced with a hint of exhaustion.

Relief washed over Asche, and he couldn't help but let out a sigh. "Oh, thank goodness. I was getting a bit worried when I didn't hear from you. Just wanted to make sure you're safe. Take your time, and I'll see you when you get here," he replied, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Sophie assured him that she was fine and promised to be home soon. Asche ended the call, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders. He knew he had a tendency to worry, but he couldn't help it. Sophie was not only his ward but also someone he deeply cared about.

Asche returned to the window, his gaze fixed on the cityscape outside. The lights of Manhattan twinkled in the distance, a reminder of the world he had come to protect and shape. He reflected on the responsibility he carried and the sacrifices he had made, all to ensure a better future.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Asche took a final sip of whisky, setting the glass aside. He would continue to guide and protect Sophie, as well as strive to correct his moral compass. The world was filled with challenges and tragedies, but together with Sophie, he would face them head-on.

And as he waited for Sophie's return, Asche couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope that someday, somehow, he would be reunited with Gwen, the woman he dearly missed. Until then, he would cherish the moments he had with Sophie, grateful for her presence in his life.

About 9:20 he heard the elevator circuit click in.

*Finally* he thought.

The elevator opened to let the 5’8” woman out. Sophie was not beautiful, and she was not ugly. More than just ‘plain’, she was ‘cute’ in a way you would say a kitten was cute. Against Asche’s advice, she was overly thin. Short of direct mental Coercion Sophie was concerned with her weight. Her knowledge of advanced biokinetics led her to a nearly fat-free diet and thusly her body was always in a state of hunger. She believed it was the best way but led to having a waif-like appearance. This was misleading though as the Rathien conditioning and implants allowed her to deadlift more than an Olympic lifter and she could take a direct shot of most non-military weaponry with no more than knocking her off her feet.

The elevator opened and Sophie stepped out. She placed her small pack on the ground nearest a small table at the opening of the hall. Asche had planned this meeting initially to tell her that he was going to be leaving. But after the recent change of plans he decided just to turn it into a “how have you been doing in school and is there anything you need? “talk

Asche couldn't help but notice the weariness in her eyes. He took a moment to observe her, appreciating the strength and determination that lay hidden beneath her unassuming appearance.

"Hey, Sophie," Asche greeted her with a warm smile, making his way towards her. "It's good to see you. How was your day? I hope everything went well."

Sophie returned his smile, though a hint of exhaustion still lingered on her face. "Hey, Asche. Yeah, it was a long day, but I managed to get through it. Classes were intense, and we had a group project to wrap up. But I'm glad it's over now."

Asche picked up on her fatigue and concern for her weight. He had previously advised her to be less stringent with her diet, but Sophie was determined to maintain a certain physique. He decided to approach the topic with care, knowing that her independence and self-image were important to her.

"I know you take your health and fitness seriously, Sophie. But I can't help but worry about you sometimes. You're already strong and capable, and I just want to make sure you're taking care of yourself in every way," Asche said, his tone gentle yet concerned.

Sophie's expression softened, understanding his intentions. "I appreciate your concern, Asche. I know I can be stubborn about it, but I promise I'm doing my best to strike a balance. I'll take your advice into consideration and try to find a healthier approach."

Asche nodded, appreciating Sophie's willingness to consider his perspective. "Thank you, Sophie. That's all I ask. You're doing incredibly well in your studies and training, and I'm proud of you. If there's anything you need, whether it's related to your academics or personal well-being, please don't hesitate to let me know."

Sophie's exhaustion seemed to fade a bit as she looked at Asche with gratitude. "Thank you, Asche. I'm grateful to have you as my guardian and mentor. Your support means the world to me."

The tension of the earlier worry began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of understanding and connection between them. Asche knew that despite his own flaws and struggles, he had made a positive impact on Sophie's life. Their bond went beyond the formalities of guardian and ward; it was a relationship built on trust, guidance, and mutual respect.

As they walked together towards the penthouse, ready to engage in their conversation, Asche couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment. Guiding Sophie and shaping her future was a responsibility he cherished, and he was determined to be there for her every step of the way.

He found himself at the bar before he heard the elevator door shut. Lost was not yet open so there were no risks of him being seen simply appearing there in the main room. He thought he could hear someone fiddling around in the Kitchen. Teleportation was so convenient and these days it seemed much less conspicuous to travel unseen. Then he remembered that The Company, that old Asche himself, had erected a tempspace field around this block. No one, not even old Asche could have broken through with teleportation. He obviously had a lot more power at his disposal than ash had in the beginning when he set up this temporal frontier. Oh well. He was concerned how whoever was in the kitchen might react, but he wasn’t going to edit time just for this.

He found it weird, referring to himself as “old “Ash, but it would have to do for now.

“Hey” was all he said as he rounded the corner into the kitchen, Priest was already there unpacking spices and placing them onto shelves.

Priest looked up from his duties for a moment. He was trying not to let himself expect anything but shock and awe from this new ‘Asche’. When he saw Asche though he was not surprised that the man did not change his appearance, and was just dressed in his casual brown leather jacket with a business shirt and pants. He finished emptying the box.

“Hey. I hate to assume , but…..”

“ I’m still Asche , Priest. I’m just gonna be a little more free with my powers and intellect and abilities. You need to be ready for it. “

He was certainly more intense than he’d ever been in the past, and his voice was more aggressive, was quite more intense than Asche. Certainly cocky.

“So what’s the directive now Director?” Priest stepped to the sink and filled a drinking glass. He began gulping it at the question.

“No changes in the sweeping big picture, You are number one now. As a security operator, you now have access to MoonDark and Juntha’s root OS.”

“Except for avoiding the loss of life to humans, agents methods are no longer hobbled. Use whatever you need while ultimately keeping hidden.”

Asche rest his free hand on the shoulder of Priest.

“I also am offering the entire company here on this planet to erupt, anyone can become a Quantum and serve with their new abilities. Pass the word and get back to me.”

He produced a small shiny plastic-looking box. It was the size of a cigar case and when he handed it to Priest one-handed the other man was remarkably surprised at the weight of the box. He almost dropped it as the fifty-pound case was placed into his hand. He hefted with both hands and steadied it.

“Those are all the Incarnates for your use as needed. Be wary though, you know their abilities and curses. Asche hid them all away and thought it better that way. I think you might need them eventually. They seem to work more reliably for a Quantum of any level.”

“ in the meantime, I do have some things I need to take care of up on moon dark, so I will see you later this afternoon.“

Ash then simply vanished from sight. Teleporting to moon dark he begun reprogramming, and re-processing his initiative that he had planned to take place in his absence. It looked like he was going to be here on this earth much longer than he had planned.

After handing the weighty case of Incarnates to Priest, Asche swiftly vanished from sight, teleporting to MoonDark to attend to his pressing matters. As he materialized in his destination, he found himself surrounded by the familiar futuristic technology and bustling energy of the MoonDark headquarters. With a sense of purpose, he delved into reprogramming and reprocessing his initiatives, adapting them to his extended stay on Earth.

Meanwhile, back at the bar, Priest stood there, stunned by the weight of the case in his hands. The plastic-like exterior belied the immense power contained within. He carefully placed the case on a nearby counter, feeling a mix of anticipation and caution. The Incarnates, with their unique abilities and curses, held both potential and risk. Asche's decision to entrust Priest with these powerful artifacts indicated the gravity of the situations they might face.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Priest contemplated the directive Asche had shared with him. He was now the number one security operator with access to MoonDark and Juntha's root OS. The restrictions on agent methods had been lifted, save for minimizing human casualties. It was an opportunity to wield his abilities with more freedom, but it also carried a weight of responsibility.

Priest's mind raced with possibilities. The offer to the entire company to become Quanta resonated with him. The idea of empowering others with newfound abilities intrigued him, but he also knew the potential risks involved. He needed to carefully consider how to approach this opportunity and disseminate the information effectively. It would require strategic planning and coordination with Asche.

As the afternoon approached, Priest's thoughts turned to his impending meeting with Asche. There were many questions swirling in his mind, and he needed clarity on the path they were about to embark on. The changes in Asche's demeanor and his intensified power made it clear that they were entering a new phase, one with higher stakes and greater challenges.

Preparing himself mentally, Priest gathered the necessary documents and equipment for their meeting. He glanced at the case of Incarnates, a reminder of the extraordinary circumstances they were dealing with. With a deep breath, he resolved to embrace the responsibility placed upon him and make the most of the resources at his disposal.

As the afternoon sun cast its warm glow through the windows, Priest made his way to the designated meeting place, ready to discuss the next steps with Asche. He knew that their conversation would shape the trajectory of their operations and define the role they would play in the ever-changing world of Quanta and their adversaries.

Little did he know the challenges that lay ahead, the encounters that would test their mettle, and the sacrifices they would be forced to make. The stage was set for a meeting that would not only determine their immediate course of action but also have far-reaching consequences for the future of their endeavors.

As Priest entered the meeting room, he braced himself for what awaited, knowing that the decisions made today would ripple through time, forever altering their lives and the world they fought to protect.

Priest took a seat at the sleek conference table, his mind focused on the impending discussion with Asche. He adjusted the documents in front of him, ensuring they were arranged neatly. The room exuded a sense of purpose, with screens displaying data and holographic projections illuminating the space.

Moments later, Asche materialized in the room, his presence commanding attention. He strode in with an air of confidence, his eyes gleaming with determination. Asche took a seat opposite Priest, acknowledging him with a nod before settling into the chair.

"Good afternoon, Priest," Asche began, his voice carrying a newfound intensity. "I trust you've had some time to process the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon us."

Priest met Asche's gaze, his own eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and readiness. "Indeed, Director. The revelations and opportunities you've presented are both exhilarating and daunting. I understand the gravity of the path we're embarking on."

Asche leaned forward, his voice measured yet filled with conviction. "We stand at the precipice of change, Priest. Our actions will shape the future not only for ourselves but for all Quanta. The Incarnates you hold in that case are tools of immense power, but they must be wielded judiciously. Each carries a unique ability, but also a curse that must be understood and respected."

Priest nodded, his hands resting on the surface of the table. "I'm well aware of the risks, Director. I'll ensure that these Incarnates are used with utmost care and consideration. They will serve as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted."

Asche's gaze locked with Priest's, a moment of silent understanding passing between them. "That is the mindset I expect from you, Priest. We cannot allow power to blind us or lead us astray. The preservation of life, particularly human life, remains our paramount concern."

Priest's expression grew resolute. "Rest assured, Director, I will do everything within my capabilities to protect and uphold that principle. Our actions must always be driven by the greater good."

A flicker of satisfaction crossed Asche's face. "I have faith in your abilities, Priest. That's why I chose you for this role. But remember, we are now operating in a world that allows us more freedom, more latitude. We must adapt, think outside the box, and leverage every resource at our disposal to stay one step ahead of our adversaries."

Asche paused, his eyes scanning the room before settling back on Priest. "In the coming days, we'll be faced with challenges and obstacles unlike anything we've encountered before. The time for cautious maneuvers has passed. We must be bold, decisive, and willing to make sacrifices. Are you prepared for what lies ahead?"

Priest's gaze hardened, his voice steady. "I am, Director. I understand the gravity of our mission, and I'm ready to face whatever comes our way. With your guidance and trust, we will navigate these uncharted waters and emerge victorious."

A fleeting smile played on Asche's lips. "Very well, Priest. Together, we shall forge a new path for Quanta. Our meeting today marks the beginning of a critical phase in our operations. Let us embrace the challenges that lie ahead and ensure that our actions shape a better world for all."

With their shared resolve fueling their determination, Asche and Priest delved into the details of their strategies, mapping out plans, and considering contingencies. The room buzzed with an air of anticipation and the weight of responsibility. The meeting was just the beginning, a stepping stone toward a future where the balance of power hung in the balance.

Little did they know that their decisions and actions would have far-reaching consequences, not only for Quanta but for the very fabric of existence itself. The meeting had set them on a collision course with destiny, where their resolve and unity would be tested, and the fate of countless lives would hang in the balance.

Lost, a pulsating heart of the metropolis, existed as more than just a nightclub. It was a sanctuary, a haven where the ordinary could shed its skin and transform into something extraordinary. Its walls echoed with the melodies of possibility, and on this particular Wednesday night, the air crackled with a tangible anticipation.

Within Lost's hallowed halls, two operatives named Clint and Deever, agents of The Company, found themselves swept up in the intoxicating maelstrom of music and conversation. They were not alone; their comrades Jorge, Rina, and Jules stood beside them, forming a microcosm of shared experiences and unspoken understanding.

Engrossed in animated discourse, Clint and Deever delved deep into the recesses of their souls. Their words intertwined with the melodic symphony surrounding them, reaching skyward like ethereal tendrils. Clint's furrowed brow betrayed his internal conflict, torn between the allure of untapped potential and the weighty burden of responsibility. The Director's offer, hidden like a precious gem within the labyrinth of uncertainty, tempted him to embark on a journey into the unknown.

Deever, their eyes ablaze with insatiable curiosity, implored their fellow operative to cast off apprehension and embrace the boundless realm of augmented abilities. Their words carried the fervor of a prophet, painting vivid visions of liberation that awaited those who dared to ascend. However, beneath their passionate advocacy, a flicker of caution danced within their gaze, a silent reminder of the price that accompanied such ascension.

Watching this exchange from the periphery was Priest, the sage guardian of this clandestine enclave. His presence exuded an aura of tranquility, an anchor amidst the tempestuous sea of possibilities. With a knowing smile, he listened to their discourse, his voice resonating with the weight of countless ages and the wisdom born from shadows. He reminded them of the delicate equilibrium between power and restraint, urging caution and introspection in the face of alluring promises.

As the night progressed, Lost became a magnet, attracting more operatives seeking solace and camaraderie within its walls. Their voices blended harmoniously, like a celestial choir singing in unison. Laughter cascaded like shimmering notes, interweaving with the infectious rhythm of the music that enveloped them.

Priest, the stalwart sentinel of this clandestine brotherhood, observed the camaraderie unfolding before his eyes. He recognized the fleeting nature of this respite, a brief interlude in their arduous endeavors. Yet, he reveled in the ephemeral beauty of the moment, in the unity that surpassed the confines of individuality.

As the operatives dispersed into the undulating sea of bodies, Priest's gaze lingered upon their fading silhouettes, each bearing the weight of the world upon their shoulders. He understood that they would soon return to their covert missions, resuming their ceaseless pursuit of safeguarding the delicate tapestry of humanity. But in this sacred sanctuary called Lost, they were free to dance, to laugh, and to embrace the ordinary joys that often eluded them in their clandestine pursuits.

Lost was more than a mere nightclub. It was a refuge, a space where the extraordinary and the mundane intersected, where operatives could shed their burdens and briefly revel in the beauty of togetherness. And as long as Lost's doors remained open, its patrons would find solace in its embrace, drawing strength from the unity that pulsed within its very foundations.

“Looks like were nearly at capacity eh Priest.” Someone from the end of the bar. Priest turned to see Jorge who was eternally the ladies man. Tonite though he was on his own.

“Sure does, but we have room for about 100 more by my count. Speaking of my count, why are you alone.” Priest asked as he slid a double shot of tequila to his friend.

“Didn’t feel like it tonite what with the heavy conversation we been havin’.” Jorge gulped down the contents of the glass. “Besides, a man has to be alone once in a while, if not only to hear his own thoughts.” Jorge tapped the bar signaling for a refill. Priest complied and poured himself one.

“Well then, here is to hearing our own thoughts Jorge. May we always be able to hear our own thoughts.” Priest laughed and raised his glass to Jorge.