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9.3

Back on Earth-749,

The quiet hum of Piltover Academy echoed softly through the halls as Jayce, Vi, and Caitlyn stood together, their conversation brimming with both tension and familiarity. Jayce glanced at Vi, his brow furrowing with curiosity and a hint of surprise.

"Honestly, Vi, I never thought I'd see you again here in Piltover," Jayce said, his tone casual yet probing. "Changed your mind?"

Vi leaned against the wall, arms crossed, her posture defensive but not unwelcoming. Her expression was serious, though there was a flicker of hesitation in her eyes.

"Maybe," Vi replied firmly, though her voice wavered slightly. "But it might just be temporary. I made a promise to Jinx... that I'd do whatever it takes to protect her. Being here could bring trouble for her, with everything she's done to her reputation."

Caitlyn stepped closer, her voice gentle as she tried to reassure Vi. "You're always welcome here, Vi," she said with a soft smile. "What happened in the past... it's over."

Jayce, shifting the conversation toward more pressing matters, brought up the recent encounter with Sevika. His tone turned thoughtful. "What about Sevika? I'm still trying to piece together what really happened there."

Vi's gaze sharpened with certainty. "Me and Caitlyn took her down together," she said calmly. "But it wasn't us that ended her life... Sevika didn't want to be taken by Piltover. She made that choice herself."

Jayce nodded slowly, processing her words. "I see... That explains a lot."

A heavy silence hung in the air before Vi spoke again, her tone more concerned. "What about Jinx?" she asked, worry creeping into her voice. "After everything that's happened with Piltover... what's going to happen to her?"

Jayce glanced at Vi with understanding, his expression softening. "As long as I'm still on the council, I'll do everything I can to make sure diplomacy between Piltover and Zaun works out," he assured her. "We'll find a way."

He paused briefly, a more significant thought crossing his mind. "Speaking of diplomacy, I've got a meeting soon... What do you two think? Do you believe diplomacy between Piltover and our allies from other universes could actually work? Could we unite to take down a bigger threat?"

Caitlyn, ever the practical one, answered first. "I think it could work," she said thoughtfully, though there was caution in her voice. "But it won't be easy. There's a lot of mistrust, and people from other universes won't share our same values or goals. It's going to take time, effort, and a lot of understanding on both sides. But... I do believe it's possible."

Vi, still skeptical, turned her gaze to Jayce. "What about him?" she asked, her tone direct. "The guy with the helmet—do you really think you can trust him? And all this multiverse stuff?"

Jayce didn't hesitate. "I think I can," he said confidently. "Foundation—if that's even his real name—seems solid. But I know it's a big leap, trusting someone from another universe. If things go wrong... we'll stand together, Vi. We'll face it when the time comes."

Their conversation was interrupted as a Piltover Officer approached. "Council is ready for you, sir," the officer said respectfully.

Jayce nodded, turning back to Vi and Caitlyn with a slight smile. "Looks like I've got to run," he said lightly. "Vi, it's good to see you again—never thought I'd say that."

Vi smirked, her tone playful as she shot back, "Yeah, well... don't get used to it."

Jayce chuckled as he walked away with the officer, leaving Vi and Caitlyn alone. Vi turned to Caitlyn with a mischievous grin. "So, Cupcake," she teased, using the familiar nickname. "It's been a while. Fancy going for a walk?"

Caitlyn smiled, caught off guard but pleased by the offer. "I'd like that," she replied warmly.

Together, they started walking down the familiar streets of Piltover, their bond rekindling as they moved side by side.

Meanwhile, Jayce entered the Hall of Councils. Seated around the grand table were the council members—Bolbok, Cassandra Kiramman, Hoskel, Mel Medarda, Salo, and Shoola—each one focused on the meeting at hand. Standing nearby was The Foundation, his imposing figure waiting for the council's approval of his offer. Jayce, the interim head, took his seat with a calm but authoritative air.

"Thank you all for meeting with me," Jayce began, addressing the council with a polite nod.

He composed his thoughts for a moment before continuing. "As you may have heard, Sevika is no longer a problem. There were some complications, as we were supposed to take her alive. However, with the assistance of Foundation and Agent Jonesy's allies from different universes, we were able to get the job done, regardless of Sevika's status."

Cassandra Kirraman, always the critic, leaned forward, her tone sharp as she interjected. "Sevika is dead because of them, Jayce," she stated, her eyes narrowing.

Unfazed by her harshness, Jayce remained calm. "The way I see it, Vi and Caitlyn did try to take her alive," he replied evenly.

Cassandra wasn't satisfied. Her gaze grew more skeptical. "And how do you know that?" she pressed, her voice carrying a hint of accusation.

Jayce Talis sat forward in his chair, his expression firm as he addressed the council. "I took a moment to speak with the two of them alone. What they told me was clear—Sevika chose to end her own life. This means none of us are responsible for her death."

Cassandra Kiramman, however, wasn't willing to let the matter rest. She leaned forward slightly, her voice low and serious. "The death of Sevika could spark a revolution—not just for her, but for Silco. She played a pivotal role alongside him."

Jayce met her gaze, his tone measured. "That's only if any of her loyalists are still out there. And even if there are more of them, it won't be difficult to find them."

Sensing the tension thickening in the room, Jayce took a deep breath, centering himself before continuing. "If there isn't anything else to discuss regarding Sevika, let's move on."

The council members exchanged glances, but the matter seemed settled, at least for the moment. Jayce shifted the conversation to the pressing issue at hand. "Now, regarding Foundation's offer. As you know, we've had discussions and reached a deal with them. The agreement was that if they helped us take down Sevika, it would prove their trustworthiness, leading to potential diplomacy between us and their allies."

Hoskel leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "What exactly is Foundation offering?"

Jayce spoke with clarity. "Foundation is requesting to use specific areas of Piltover as a base of operations. In exchange, we gain their support and resources—something invaluable given the threats we're facing."

Cassandra's skepticism was immediate. Her voice sharpened as she questioned Jayce. "Are they asking for all of Piltover as a base?"

Jayce shook his head calmly. "No, not all of it. We're talking about specific sections—areas that are underutilized or in need of redevelopment. We'll still maintain control over the vital sectors. It's a fair trade and one that benefits us in the long run."

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He continued, his confidence in the plan evident. "By giving them a base, we'll have access to their technology, support, and resources—exactly what we need to handle the threat from the multiverse."

Some council members seemed intrigued by the possibilities, while others, particularly Cassandra, remained skeptical. Salo voiced the concern on everyone's mind. "Is letting them use Piltover as a base really a good idea? What guarantees do we have that this won't backfire?"

Jayce's response was measured, but confident. "Allowing them to establish a base strengthens our defenses. With their advanced technology and combat experience, we'll be better equipped to handle any threats, both internal and external. This also opens the door to allies from other universes, which could be crucial for Piltover's security. And if they prove untrustworthy, we'll have the upper hand by knowing their operations firsthand."

Cassandra remained unconvinced. She leaned forward again, her voice sharp. "I disagree. We're taking a huge risk by letting them into our city. This could jeopardize everything we've built."

From across the room, Mel Medarda—Jayce's partner—looked at him with concern. Her voice was gentle as she spoke. "Jayce, are you sure about this? It's a big decision."

Jayce met her gaze with resolute calmness. He then turned to address the entire council, his tone authoritative. "I understand your concerns, but we have to remember what Piltover stands for—innovation, progress, and the protection of our people. Allowing Foundation and Jonesy to establish a base here aligns with that purpose. They've already placed a device that protects us from the Rogue AI they warned us about. This isn't just about helping them—it's about safeguarding Piltover from threats we're only beginning to understand."

The council exchanged glances, some showing agreement, while others, like Cassandra, still wrestled with doubt. Her frustration mounting, Cassandra spoke again, her voice heated. "You're really going to entrust these strangers with our city? This is a mistake, Jayce! You're putting everything we've worked for at risk!"

Jayce's composure remained steady, his voice firm. "Cassandra, as Interim Head, I'm still in charge—for now. As long as I'm here, I make the decisions."

One of the council members, Shoola nodded in agreement, her voice calm but firm. "Cassandra, please, calm down. Let's handle this with the decorum expected of us."

Hoskel nodded in agreement. "Very well, let's put it to a vote."

As hands rose in favor of Jayce's decision, the majority of the council, including Mel, supported the plan. Cassandra's displeasure was evident as she reacted negatively to the outcome. Jayce's voice cut through the room with finality. "It's settled, then."

Bolbok spoke up to move the discussion forward. "We can start making the necessary adjustments to transform a part of Piltover into a base of operations."

Cassandra wasn't finished. Her gaze locked onto Jayce, her voice sharp and warning. "But remember this, Jayce—I've trusted you for a long time. You and Caitlyn have known each other even longer. But if this diplomacy goes wrong, or if Piltover is compromised by that Rogue AI, you will be held responsible."

Her words grew even sharper, cutting through the air. "Your position as Interim Head will be revoked, and you'll be removed from office for good."

Jayce stood his ground, the weight of her words heavy but not enough to shake his resolve. "I understand, Cassandra. I know what's at stake here—the risks, the pressure—it's not lost on me. But this threat... it's unlike anything we've ever faced before. I trust Foundation, but I'm not blind to the dangers."

His voice softened slightly, but his resolve remained. "If things go wrong, I'll take responsibility. I've made promises to Piltover, to you, and to Caitlyn. I won't let any of you down. But we have to be willing to take risks if we're going to survive what's coming."

The tension in the room remained thick, but the decision had been made. As the council members began to depart, Jayce turned to address them one last time. "This meeting is adjourned."

Mel approached him, her voice soft and affectionate as she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "I'll head out. See you later, Jayce."

Jayce nodded, watching her leave before turning to The Foundation, who had been standing nearby, quietly observing the meeting. "Thanks, Jayce," The Foundation said gratefully. "I appreciate you making this happen. We'll make sure our diplomacy doesn't go wrong."

Jayce smiled slightly, confidence radiating from him. "I have a good feeling about you and Agent Jonesy. I trust you, and honestly, I like the excitement of having more people from other universes joining us. It just brings the chaos."

As the council members left the room, the camera lingered on Cassandra, who remained seated, her gaze fixed on Jayce as he spoke with The Foundation. Her eyes were filled with anger and jealousy, the tension palpable. Meanwhile, far away in Cortana's world, Ezio watched through his enhanced vision, observing Jayce's conversation with The Foundation. Overhearing the entire meeting, he muttered to himself, his suspicions growing clearer.

"It seems he's responsible for all of this," Ezio murmured. "But where is the other Agent Jonesy?"

Within the alternate universe of Fallout 4,

On Earth-111, the Castle's General's quarters were filled with tension. The long table, once used for strategizing against raiders and super mutants, now served as a meeting place for a discussion far more unsettling. Seated around the table were Nate, the Sole Survivor, and his trusted companions: Nick Valentine, Piper, Paladin Danse—standing tall in his Power Armor—and Preston Garvey. The air was thick with uncertainty as Nate prepared to share what he had learned.

Nick Valentine leaned forward, his mechanical features tinged with skepticism. "So, let me get this straight. You're telling us there are more Earths out there? Besides this one?"

Paladin Danse's voice rumbled through the room, grim and incredulous. "And a rogue AI is trying to take over these universes? How is that even possible?"

Nate took a deep breath, steeling himself for the task of explaining something that even he found hard to fully comprehend. "I know it sounds crazy, but it's true. According to Jonesy and Johnson, the multiverse is real—there are infinite versions of Earth, each one different from the next. Some are similar to ours, others completely different. And this rogue AI, it's not just any machine. It's highly advanced, and it's trying to control these universes, bending them to its will."

He paused, letting the gravity of his words settle over the group.

"Think of the Institute's synths," Nate continued, carefully. "But on a much bigger scale. This AI doesn't just create machines—it manipulates entire worlds. It's dangerous and powerful. But Jonesy and Johnson believe that by working together, we can stop it before it's too late."

Piper, ever the curious journalist, furrowed her brow as she processed the information. "So, you're saying we're not alone? That there are other versions of us out there, fighting the same battles?"

Nate nodded. "Exactly. And this AI is trying to exploit those battles, trying to take control. That's why we need to be ready. That's why I called you all here. We're not just fighting for our world anymore—we're fighting for all of them."

Piper leaned back in her chair, her eyes softening as she regarded Nate with a mix of concern and affection. "Blue," she began softly, using her familiar nickname for him, "are you sure about this? What you're saying... it's almost too much to believe."

Nick Valentine, loyal but cautious, tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Nate, we've never doubted you before," he said carefully. "But this time... I'm sorry, I have to. This is hard to swallow."

Feeling the weight of their doubts pressing on him, Nate met each of their eyes with unwavering conviction. "I understand your doubts," he said earnestly. "But I'm telling you, what I heard is true. I wouldn't have brought you all here if I didn't believe it myself. I trust you all, and I need you to trust me now."

Nick considered Nate's words for a moment, his synthetic mind recalling past events. "You did help me solve my case with Eddie Winter," Nick said, his voice reflective. "Ended his reign of terror. That was no small feat."

Preston Garvey, sitting tall and resolute, nodded. "And you helped rebuild the Minutemen, Nate. Without you, we wouldn't have come this far."

Piper smiled warmly, her admiration for Nate evident. "Not only that," she added, "you made the Commonwealth a better place, Blue. Destroying the Institute... that was you."

Paladin Danse, ever the soldier, straightened in his Power Armor and gave Nate a respectful nod. "You've earned our trust, Nate. Whatever this is, if you say it's true, then I believe you. You've proven yourself time and again."

Nate looked around at his friends, feeling their support wash over him despite the initial skepticism. "Thank you," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I know this is hard to accept, but together, we can face whatever comes our way."

Paladin Danse, his voice carrying a sense of duty, spoke up once more. "I'll need to report back to Elder Maxson about this. A rogue AI... it's bound to catch his attention. This will remind Maxson of the Institute, and I'm sure he'll see the importance of aiding us in this fight."

Nate nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a solid plan, Danse. If Maxson decides to back us, it'll make a big difference."

As the meeting came to a close, the group began to disperse, each of them preparing for the challenges ahead. Piper lingered behind for a moment, her mind already buzzing with ideas. She muttered to herself thoughtfully, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

"A new article on the multiverse..." she whispered, almost to herself. "Now that's going to leave people shocked. Can't wait to see their faces when they read this."

Her words hung in the air as she left the room, setting the stage for the next chapter in their extraordinary journey. in a way they can grasp.