No.1838
>Date: May 5th, 2017
>Location: Sanctuary City - Residential District
>Time: 8:00 AM
>At the Grayson Residence, Aiden finishes dusting off his clothes - making sure they're nearly presented. As he does so, he then looks at himself in the mirror. Seeing his wavy black hair intersect with portions of his face - he's barely able to see himself in the mirror as a result.
"……"
>As he moves to part his bangs out of his hair - he then feels a pair of hands slowly do that for him. Recognizing the person by their sensitivity of touch, he then says out loud:
"I'm hopeless, aren't I?"
>Scowling lightly, Stella then neatly parts Aiden's hair - adjusting it with a fine tooth comb. As she carefully moves over his hair with the comb, she speaks:
"If you were hopeless, I wouldn't be your fiancé."
>Sighing, Aiden then watches as Stella finishes her work - before seeing her in the mirror smiling behind him.
"Not sure where I'd be right now without you."
>Raising an eyebrow, Stella then gives Aiden an amused look as she says:
"I'll admit, I don't think you'd be in the best place either."
>Turning him around slowly, she then helps him button up part of his jacket pouches as she states:
"But…..That's…..Why…..You….Have….."
>Stella says with dramatic effect, annunciating with each button connection.
"……Me."
>Finishing the last button, she then looks at Aiden for a moment - getting lost in his eyes. She likes his shade of light blue, seemingly unique to his irises.
"Hmmm. 'Aiden'. A Gaelic name, I believe."
>Tapping her finger against the bridge of his nose, she then states:
"…..'Little Fire'. It suits you."
>Now leaning back, Stella states:
"I love a little bit of fire in my men."
No.1839
>>1838>Aiden then feels his face flush red a bit, as he states:"….Well, it was my father's idea since obviously - my mom wasn't around to name me."
>Feeling his face darken slightly, Aiden looks off to the side as Stella touches his cheek with her finger. "No more self-defeating statements. You remember what your cousin said. Positive thoughts…."
>Aiden nods as he responds:"Lead to positive emotions, which lead to positive affect and behavior. Yes, I remember."
"Good."
>Stella then gives Aiden a kiss on the lips for a few seconds - pulling him in for it. After those seconds have passed, she then pulls away from her partner and then says:"I'll never get tired of that."
>Silent for a moment, both of them refuse to say a word - until Stella then says:"Well, off you go then. Don't want to keep him waiting,
Aodhán."
>Sighing, Aiden then states:"My name is anglicized for a reason, Stella. You don't have to say it like that."
>Stella nods while giving an innocent and suggestive shrug."No, but I
want to. Phoebe and I are going shopping today so I'll be fine. Go talk to him, I'm sure he'll be willing to make up with you now."
>Stella then gives Aiden another tap on the cheek as he then nods slowly and starts to leave the room. No.1841
>>1840>Nothing happens for several minutes, until finally the front door opens. Orion peaks his head around it, looking tired. "I was in the bathroom."
>He groggily opens the front door for Aiden and begins to walk away - suddenly appearing to lose his balance as he falls forward and begins to float further in the house."What is it you wanted again? I've had only a few hours of very shitty sleep so I'm not entirely sure what's happening around me at the moment."
>Orion floats towards the most comfortable looking seat in the vicinity and drops himself on top of it, landing in an awkward spread out position. No.1842
>>1841>Aiden walks in as he looks somewhat surprised."….I left a voicemail about taking you out to your favorite restaurant today?"
>Aiden says, quietly. Crossing his arms and looking around, he then says in a more normal tone of voice:"….That's only if you're wanting that - if not, I can leave."
>Aiden looks down, clearly bothered. No.1843
>>1842>Orion stares at Aiden, clearly trying to remember."Oh. Right."
>He begins to hover over the chair."Give me like… I dunno five minutes."
>Orion then hovers away, vanishing around the corner. A few minutes later he returns, now walking and wearing a different pair of clothes. His demeanor however hasn't changed much."Okay. I'm ready, I guess."
>Orion waits for Aiden to take the lead. No.1844
>>1843>Aiden nods and asks him:"Is there anywhere specific that you want to go?"
>As he speaks, he then states:"…..If it's just awkward as the two of us, I can call Jonah or someone else too."
>As Aiden exits the front of the house, he then looks around - taking a note of the front yard. After surveying it for a second, he then says:"…..Might need a cutter for that. I'll get you one if you want that."
>Aiden then makes his way to his car as he examines it for a few seconds. He then abruptly stops as he says:"…..I know I can just take us there in an instant but…..I figured you'd just want to drive."
>He says, still looking like he's holding in his emotions somewhat. No.1846
>>1845>Aiden nods as he says:"Fair enough."
>Getting into the car, Aiden then begins driving them away into the city's downtown area.—————————————————————-
>Location: Downtown Sector >Time: 12:00 PM
>Back in the same restaurant that Aiden was at before, Aiden watches as a waitress finishes serving them the last portion of their buffet special."Thank you."
>Aiden says to the waitress as she smiles and nods. She then leaves, moving at a brisk pace as Aiden looks at Orion - stating."Well, there's the steak and fries. I can get more if you want."
>Aiden says, barely eating his food. His mind is wandering partially, as he stares at the plate before him."………."
"I got a bit of everything for brunch since you just woke up. Nutrition and all that."
>Aiden then gets the strength to start focusing on his food again, slowly eating his fries and drinking his water as well. No.1848
>>1847>Aiden looks up at Orion and stares for a moment. Not knowing what to say, he then says:"….Look Orion, I'm probably the last person who deserves to say this, but I
am sorry for-"
>At that moment, Aiden notices a figure in a luxury black coat walking by their table. Instantly recognizing him with his snow white hair, Aiden says incredulously:"…..
Jason?"
>Eyes opening wide, Jason Khyber then turns around and looks at Aiden at his seat, stating:"….Aiden? Wha-"
>Shaking himself out of his surprise for a moment, he then states:"Where have you
been? Fantasian has been trying to contact you about a CGI processor project for
weeks now. What have you been-"
>Closing his eyes, he then sighs before opening them up again. Now looking at Orion, he then says:"…..I'm guessing you're his friend? No wait you look familiar….."
>Rubbing his eyelids for a moment, Jason then snaps his fingers as he states:"Right. Thompson. You're his COO."
No.1850
>>1849>Blinking for a moment, Jason then says to Aiden:"…..Is he always like that?"
>Aiden nods, sighing."He's just in the moment. What did you need from me about that project specifically, Jason?"
>Not missing a step, Jason then explains the details."I'm going to need some processors from Tessellation, your subsidiary - since my CGI division's complaining about the existing machines. I'm not a semiconductor guy, but apparently they're just not efficient enough anymore to do frame rendering on time - and keep to budget."
>Nodding, Aiden says:"In that case, I'll have it moved up the chain of priority. Sorry, just red tape. I know. Corporate protocols are irritating to deal with at times."
>Jason shrugs as he responds:"It can't be helped. I'm aware."
>Suddenly Jason's phone rings."Hang on a second."
>Looking at the Caller ID, he then scowls."Ugh. It's
her."
>Now looking back at Aiden, Jason then says:"Do me a favor Aiden. If you're going to get married - make sure it's to a woman you actually love."
>Gesturing with his hand that's holding the phone, and doing so in Aiden's direction, Jason then says:"Be seeing you Aiden. Stay safe now."
>Answering the phone, Jason utters:"What do you want? If you're busy, go ask my bodyguard. He's right outside."
>Jason then leaves Aiden and Orion on their own back at the table. No.1851
>>1850>Suddenly, a massive wave of force can be felt from outside - as part of the restaurant's doors blow off. Waves of gunfire can be heard more clearly now - as engines and generators roar with loud metallic screeches.
>As people immediately begin to panic and run for the back exits, Aiden immediately gives the waitress from before some cash. "Hurry, take this and get to safety."
>Nodding in thanks as well as terror over the situation - the waitress then runs to the exit along with the others.
>Using his senses, Aiden can detect a figure slowly walking towards the entrance of the restaurant - after the gunfire's stopped.
>Immediately turning his attention towards Orion, he then says:"Come on, hide!"
>As Aiden begins motioning for Orion to move over towards the back of the restaurant - behind the kitchen door, he then peers outside, just as Orion comes into the kitchen as well.
>Aiden can see a man in a mask and with a leather jacket - slowly walking into the store. As he does so, Aiden then notices the man's appearance with more detail. The man has a leather jacket, and a pair of modified handguns seemingly glistening with supernatural light. "Hey Lilith! Stop fuckin' around with the MRD and get in 'ere! Make sure we got the Kyber boy!"
>Raising an eyebrow, Aiden thinks to himself:{"Someone ordered a hit on Jason? For what?!"}
>The figure, now walking around the entrance of the restaurant - looks up at the menu on the wall."Not bad. A bit expensive for my taste, but I guess the kitchen's free now."
No.1852
>>1851"Fuck this."
>A table suddenly gets flung through the air by an invisible force, smashing against the man with the mask. Orion activates his suit, and then bursts through the kitchen door."Alright come on. Let's get this over with."
>Omnius holds out his hand, pulling the masked man towards him. He catches him by the throat, and then slams him into the nearest table - pinning him in place. "Tell me what you're doing. Now."
No.1853
>>1852>Groaning, the man adjusts his vision for a second before he squints his eyes. After a few seconds, he then laughs maniacally, saying:"Ahahahahaha! It's you! Brain boy!"
>Thinking to himself, he then goes:"Huh, so if
you were eatin' in here this whole time - then we might have a got shot ta' figure out who you 're!"
>The figure then begins flying up into the air - crashing through the roof with enough force to rupture it entirely. As he heatbutts with Omnius in order to bring their helmets closer together, he laughs, stating:"C'mon then brainiac! Read my mind!"
>An ominous and distorted shadow then appears behind the figure, distorting as he then shouts:"Let's see if you can handle what's inside!"
>The figure then continues flying him and Omnius around into the air.
>With his free hand, he manifests his large handgun, glowing with malevolent red energy - which he places to Omnius's head, and begins rapidly firing bullets with. No.1854
>>1853>Back at the restaurant, Aiden has already transformed into Mosaic, manifesting his robed armor with a flash of black and red light rings. As the transformation completes, he then slowly moves out of the kitchen and towards the open wreck of a shop.
>Cursing to himself, he then makes a gesture with his hand, and speaks:"Receptus"
>Immediately, the restaurant and the nearby street begins self-repair as Mosaic looks around. Scanning to see no objects out of place anymore, he then moves outside as he then surveys the scene."…….."
>Now repaired cars and MRD hovervehicles fill the streets - as a MRD agent quickly runs towards Mosaic, shouting:"There's another one of them! She's on her way right now!!!!"
>Panicking, the MRD agent then quickly draws their plasma rifle as they start looking around in terror. Somewhat confused, Mosaic then says:"Who-"
No.1855
>>1854>Immediately, Mosaic then feels a gust of wind rapidly emanating from the air around him - and then looks up to instinctively catch an energy blast - hurtling his way at hypersonic speeds."……..Well, now I know."
>Dissipating the energy blast with a closed fist - he then looks up to see the person responsible."…..So. I'm guessing you're the culprit, miss……?"
>A feminine figure then slowly levitates down from above - wearing an outfit similar to the man from before. As she does so, she gives an amused laugh - stating:"Oh, you're just as magnificent as I imagined. Your reputation precedes you, Mosaic."
>The woman, adorned in a similar leather jacket outfit to the man - differentiates herself with her open bust, which Mosaic manages to completely ignore."I'm guessing you're Lilith then?"
>Scoffing, Lilith then says:"Lucifer you blabbering buffoon. Can you never withhold your instinct to speak, even
once?"
>Irritated, she then quickly changes her demeanor as she laughs again."Yes, I
am indeed Lilith. The temptress of men. Tell me…"
>Lilith then slowly begins hovering towards Mosaic as she says:"What does your heart desire~?"
No.1856
>>1853>Despite being at near point-blank range, the bullets all swerve around Omnius. Annoyed, he cocks his fist back and then slams it into the masked man's face. "Yeah, you're big and bad. I don't fucking care. But sure. I'll play it your way."
>He then flies into the man, slamming them both into and sliding across the ground. Omnius grabs him by the face - squeezing his mask tightly."Open up."
>He then uses his telepathy to access the man's mind… No.1857
>>1856>Inside of Lucifer's mind, his internal mindscape is a seemingly warped version of the Astral Plane - dark and twisted in nature.
>As Omnius's psionic power begins to take hold - it pushes back against Lucifer, causing him to open his eyes wide in shock."What the fu-"
>Then, a psychic feedback blast knocks him backwards - sending him spiraling down into the ground at free fall speed. As he continues falling, he then regains his composure, putting a hand to his head and curing loudly."AGH! FUCKER!"
>Holding out his hands, Lucifer then begins firing massive blasts of energy at Omnius - clearly supernatural, and combusting the air before them as the massive explosions rapidly encroach on Omnius's position. No.1858
>>1855>>1857>Back on the ground, the MRD agent struggles to holster his weapon against the woman. As he does so, his hands tremble as he stammers out:"D-Don't move! You're under arrest for unlawful property destruction and assault of the MRD!"
>Smirking, Lilith then blows a kiss to the MRD agent - creating a bright pink light which immediately knocks him out.
>As the MRD agent falls to the ground - unconscious, Mosaic slowly turns back around. "You're lucky he isn't dead."
>Chuckling to herself in an amused tone of voice, the woman then says:"Oh, I wouldn't know about that…Something tells me you're much more
feisty when you're angry. Am I wrong~?"
>As Lilith saunters over to Mosaic, she exaggerates her hip movements. Attempting to accentuate her feminine appeal, she also exaggerates her movements to bring attention to her hips and waist."Why don't you help me out~? Find me our little target - the rich snob Khyber…."
>Now standing directly before Mosaic, the woman then places a finger on his robed armor - tracing a path across his chest."And I can make you
all kinds of happy~."
>Grabbing her wrist with his hand, Mosaic then flatly replies:"Seduction doesn't work if your opponent can see your intent clear as day. Part of lying involves substituting it in parallel with the truth."
>Tossing her arm to her side, he then concludes:"Blatant appeals to my sense of manhood are low effort."
>Still smirking, the woman then places her hands around his neck as she begins to whisper in the side of his helmet."Oh, you poor,
poor hero. Everyone has a breaking point~."
>Suddenly a disembodied voice then says:"Yeah, and I've found mine."
>Then without warning, an invisible burst of force then blasts Lilith backwards - knocking her backwards as she crashes into a nearby MRD APC vehicle.
>Stunned, she slowly rises up, speechless and bewildered."What-"
>She's then knocked back into the same APC vehicle as before, now stunned again as her mind races.{"What on Earth?! Who's attacking us now?!"} No.1859
>>1858>Just then, a woman clad in pinkish clothing, energy wings and a visor and guard combination - appears in the air above them both. The woman, who has purple-pinkish hair that flows in the wind, appears smug as her large visor complete obscures her facial features except for her purple-pinkish eyebrows and her mouth.
>As she slowly lands on the ground, she then crosses her arms and scoffs at the woman, stating:"Hmmph. Skank. Stay away from my man."
>Confused, Mosaic then looks at the woman, stating:"I'm flattered, but I'm taken. Not that you'd know that - sorry."
>The woman then slowly turns her attention to face Mosaic, as she then says with an amused tone of voice:"Oh? Are you sure about that?"
>Although the tone of her voice is different, Mosaic can't help but feel a sense of familiarity to her voice.
>As the woman walks towards Mosaic, she then whispers at the side of his helmet:"I told you earlier. I like a man with a little bit of
fire in him, don't I?"
>As Mosaic has the realization, the woman with the visor then giggles softly as she floats backwards - giving them some space of a few feet.
>At the same time, another voice calls out from above."Andromeda! Keep your focus!"
>Nodding, she then gives the figure a thumbs up, as they hover down to the ground beside Mosaic on the other side."Yeah, I know. Thanks for the tips from the other day!"
>Hyperia, now standing beside Andromeda, states:"We'll finish the shopping later. For now? Lady Death."
>Mosaic then sighs as he realizes what's going on with absolute certainty."….
Andromeda? As in-"
>Andromeda then places one hand on her hip - her partially exposed chest showing her athletic physique. "As in the woman who was chained by her father as a sacrifice to a monster, yes."
>Walking towards Mosaic, she then places her fingers on the base of his helmet, adjusting it as if it were her chin."….Who needed the help of a big, strong man to save her - and defy her father."
>Removing her hand, Andromeda then smiles as she concludes her statement:"A man she would later come to fall in love with and marry - without a care in the world….."
No.1860
>>1859>Lilith then slowly stands up, wincing as she feels the wound on her chest. Thinking through her options, she then psionically contacts Lucifer, stating:{"Lucifer! We're outmanned and outgunned here! We need to retreat!"}
>After getting a response, she then replies mentally:{"Shut up and do it! Placebo's not going to be happy if we're - GYAH!!"}
>Mosaic then finishes his mental probing of Lilith's mind, causing her to fall to the ground in pain - clutching her head by reflex as well."…..Placebo? Who exactly is that?"
>Mosaic asks Lilith as she slowly rises to her feet. Scoffing, she then says:"The one who freed us from our restraints. Showed us what we could become if we just….let go."
>Looking at her hand as she balls it into a fist - she then looks up at Mosaic and smiles, stating:"He could free you too. If you'd just let him. Remove all of your self doubt and worries. He could set you free, and let the real you appear in all of his glory."
>Holding her hands out in a pleading gesture, she then says seductively:"Don't you want that? My favorite hero~?"
>Giving a look of disgust, Andromeda then says:"You're really testing my patience now - you and the rest of the hussies."
>She then holds out her hand - creating a bright pink sigil, surrounded by a rainbow of sigils. As she does so - she then bombards Lilith with a massive amount of magical energy - sending her spiraling backwards once again."Come onto him again, and you'll see what happens when I lose my patience."
>Andromeda lowers her hand, now crossing her arms again. No.1861
>>1857>The blasts of energy harmlessly bounce off of Omnius's body, as he casually walks around checking out the scenery. "What's got you freaking out?"
>He turns his head to face Lucifer, still unaffected by his attacks."You invited me to get into your mind."
>Still ignoring the apparently harmless attack, he looks around again. "I was kind of hoping for something interesting. But this is just a little gloomy. Big deal."
>Omnius seems to vanish, only to re-appear next to Lucifer. Before he can do anything Omnius grabs his face and slams him into the "ground"."You don't even have any protection against telepaths. You're a dumbass."
>He lets go of Lucifer's face, and then punches him before he can react. This causes a massive flash of white the envelop the mindscape… No.1862
>>1861>Lucifer then appears on the ground - downed and landing right next to Lilith. As he lands on the ground - groaning in pain, Lilith then looks up.
>Eyes racing back and forth across the three, now four vigilantes standing before her - she then sighs in resignation as she says:"….Back to Placebo it is. A shame."
>As a large bright orange flame begins to consume both her and Lucifer - she then says to Mosaic:"I was hoping to see if we could snatch you up to our side~."
>Blowing him one final kiss - Lilith then disappears in the large plume of orange flame alongside Lucifer - vanishing without a trace. No.1863
>>1862>Looking around, Mosaic then says out loud:"It's alright. You can come out of hiding now, Mister Khyber."
>Slowly, a field of distorted reality then disappears - as the cloak covering Jason then gets removed. As he folds it away into his jacket pocket, he then nods and says:"Yeah. I am. Crazy maniacs. They could've killed people!"
>Looking on at the place that they were in disgust, he then turns to Mosaic and the others and says:"Thank you again."
>Nodding, Mosaic then says:"They stated that they were after you, Mister Khyber. Would you have any idea why that is?"
>Thinking to himself, Jason then replies:"None that I can think of, no. I'm entirely above ground and legitimate. But my-"
>Stopping himself, Jason then states:"…..But my hunch is that - it's likely because of my wealth. Likely ransom, for some kind of leverage."
>Thinking for a moment, Mosaic then says:"We'll, keep a security detail around you for now. Monitor your day-to-day path covertly for now, at least until the MRD can set up an official security force as soon as possible for you. So we're going to protect you. We're going to look into this - see what we can find."
>Nodding once more, Jason then states:"Thank you…All of you. The MRD might not appreciate you - but people like me do. You saved my hide here, and I won't forget that."
>Jason is then escorted away by his personal bodyguard - Jeremiah, who was hiding under a similar invisibility cloth.
>Jeremiah nods at Mosaic and the rest of the vigilantes, stating:"Thank you, all of you. I won't forget this, and Master Khyber will repay you back tenfold."
>Before leaving as he protects his boss - walking towards their limousine to drive away soon. No.1864
>>1863>Turning around, Mosaic then looks at his group and gestures, stating:"I'll worry about the security detail for Jason - make sure that no one's going to come after him. I don't trust the MRD with this - not fully."
>Walking towards him, Andromeda then slowly takes Magister's hand in her own, looking into his helmet and piercing through to see his eyes. "….He's your friend isn't he?"
>Mosaic nods slowly, still staring into Andromeda's visor with magic - now able to confirm who she really is."…..But I'll keep a distance. Nanite surveillance drones. I won't show up unless something momentous happens."
>Nodding, Andromeda then says:"Good. Because the last thing I need is you gallavanting around all night - like you did before."
>Mosaic stammers as he then rubs the back of his neck, behind his armored jacket collar as he states:"Well….That was because…..I was just……You know…..Trying to…."
>Laughing, Andromeda then states:"Just stop it, hun. I know. You feel like you need to help everyone, every single moment of the day."
>At the same time that Mosaic and Andromeda are being romantic towards each other, Hyperia turns to Omnius and says:"How's your friend holding up?"
>She says, crossing her arms and expecting a response from her ex-boyfriend after a few moments. No.1865
>>1864>Omnius turns to look at Hyperia. For several moments he doesn't say anything, before finally responding."She's fine."
>Omnius stares at her for a few more seconds before speaking again."How are things going with you? Your brother doesn't really talk about you much."
No.1866
>>1865>Hyperia sighs and blows her bangs out of her face as she turns to Omnius, stating:"He's been a bit preoccupied. So have I."
>Rubbing her eyelids, she then explains:"Busy at work a lot more than usual - and I've got a bunch of crazy Meta-Human gangs to deal with. They've started swarming Paradise City like flies. It's honestly starting to annoy me."
>Shaking her head, she then says:"But enough about that. I want to know when I can go visit the lucky lady myself."
>Leaning in to whisper to something to Omnius, she then states:['Besides. I'd want to give her some advice about 'taming' you - the wild boar that you are."]
>Smiling, Hyperia then steps back and turns to Mosaic and Andromeda, stating:"We should probably talk about this later. Crowds are starting to form. Let's go."
No.1868
>>1867>Location: Sanctuary City - The Prism>Time: 8:00 PM
>Aiden sits back in his large chair as he observes the camera network set up for him by the nanite surveillance bots. The camera feeds show multiple angles surrounding the mansion that Jason Khyber lives in.
>A set of MRD troops takes up residence around the front gates to the mansion, with a series of MRD Hovercraft parked nearby.
>The nanite surveillance bots can overhear parts of various conversations due to their built in audio equipment and signal relay boosters.{"Seriously - does he really need that
much protection? I get that Khyber's a generous guy and all - and I appreciate the bonuses we're getting. But still. It was just two Metas."}{"Those two Metas nearly blew up an entire city block looking just for him. We're lucky we had personnel nearby who were getting lunch at one of the restaurants."}{"Honestly? Why even attack Khyber? Those Grayson kids are way richer than him - and he's already pretty loaded."}{"Somebody tried before remember? That Aiden guy got jumped twice
. One tough son of a bitch to survive an assassination attempt by some weird-ass ninja and
an a sabotaged car."}
>Back in the Prism cave base situated underneath the Archeon Complex, Aiden then gives a somewhat quizzical look as he says:"….I Appreciate it, I guess?"
>Phoebe, leaning against the nearby wall gives a loud sound of amusement - pointing at him with her crossed arm as she does so."Somebody's famous. Keep this up and next they'll send the MHA after you."
>Aiden gives Phoebe a blank look, as Jonah looks somewhat surprised."….Alright, fine. A bit too far there."
>Jonah nods as he then turns to Aiden and says:"Nothing inconsistent with Jason's security detail so far. From what I've gathered, he's also managed to requisition more private security from Jeremiah's old company."
>Aiden then looks at Jonah, saying:"I know this was a lot to ask of me, Jonah, but thank you. Did you also scout the perimeter? Make sure there weren't any hidden surprises left for him once he got back?"
>Jonah nods again, picking up a small set of ping pong sized graphite spheres."…..Miniature EMPs. Someone was going to try and sabotage his security system."
No.1869
>>1868>Stella leans in over Aiden's shoulder - paying far more attention to her boyfriend than to the actual visual feed that he's observing."Well, now you have a full view of the area. From what I've gathered, these 'MRD' personnel seem competent enough."
>Placing a hand on Aiden's arm, she then says:"Your friend will be fine, Aiden. You don't have to look out for everyone, at every waking moment of the day….."
>Stella says, her gaze trailing off as she stares directly into Aiden's eyes."Don't bother, Stella. I've been trying to tell him that for years."
>Phoebe says, her arms still crossed."My brother's as stubborn as a mule."
>Stella smiles at Phoebe wholeheartedly, stating:"I can see as much, but he means well - and he's been straining his body and mind for so many people all this time…."
>Stella then places her hand on Aiden's own, saying:"It's just….for once I'd want my husband-to-be to focus on what's right here at home…."
>Jonah looks away awkwardly as Aiden feels his face turn red."Oh….Well…congratulations, Aiden!"
>Jonah says, nervously - completely surprised by the revelation.
>Even Phoebe raises an eyebrow before turning her attention back to Aiden, stating:"And you were going to tell us this…….when?"
No.1870
>>1869>Aiden sighs for a moment before saying:"When I felt the time was right."
>Stella, looking somewhat embarrassed, feels her own cheeks turn red as she says:"I'm sorry, Aiden, I didn't mean to blurt that out. It was just…."
>Phoebe shakes her head, saying:"No, that confirms it. You do care about my brother."
>Now lowering her arms, she then points to the live feed on the screen and says:"She's right though Aiden. There's nothing that's going to happen to Jason - at least not now."
>Jonah then interjects."I agree with Phoebe's assertion. Instead we should prioritize information compiling regarding those two Para-Humans we encountered. Lucifer and Lilith."
>Stella then raises an eyebrow, stating:"Para-Humans?"
>Aiden turns his head in Stella's direction as he says:"Humans without a Meta-Gene who demonstrate supernatural abilities. People like you, honey."
>Understanding, Stella gives a slight nod as she states:"Well, outside of Lilith irritating me with her advances towards you - I have nothing to say that could be of any use. I've never encountered anyone other than magicians before."
>Looking at Aiden, Stella then gives him a warm smile as she says:"…..Until I met you~"
>Aiden feels his face turn red again. No.1871
>>1870>Focusing, Aiden then brings his hand to his chin as he thinks for a moment."…..Lilith mentioned something about a person named 'Placebo' in her thoughts."
>Remembering Lilith's statements, Stella then states:"Didn't she also say something about him freeing them from their 'restraints'?"
>Aiden nods as he continues Stella's verbal train of thought."Removing all of their 'self doubt' and 'worries' as well. Letting the 'real' them appear."
>Jonah then speaks up in response to their analysis."Given his name, it's possible that he's placing them under hypnagogic suggestion? Taking advantage of lower cognitive states to alter their behaviors? People
are more susceptible to priming under deliberately induced mental states."
>Phoebe also perks up in turn."Could be messing with their minds? Changing their memories that way?"
>Aiden thinks for a moment before he responds."My memory replication is suppressed - but when I skimmed Lilith's memories I didn't find anything locked beyond her awareness. Whatever happened to her happened of her own free will - and she's aware of it. So it's not memory erasure or memory manipulation."
>He then thinks again for a moment:"….Placebo….."
>Looking up at Phoebe, Aiden then states:"Placebos are sleights of hand, right? Manipulations of awareness in a way that causes the target to think or act under false assumptions."
>Jonah immediately recognizes Aiden's logical reasoning and continues for him."So there's no need to manipulate a person's psyche - if they
themselves begin a cognitive pathway of thoughts under those false assumptions. There's nothing unnatural to detect with telepathy in that case."
>Aiden nods at Jonah as he says:"…..Which means whoever this Placebo person is - he's not changing his subordinates; so much as watching as they change themselves."
>Aiden's supernatural intuition abilities then do the rest of the work."He's got some kind of supernatural power that brings out potential in his targets. Transforms them into superhumans. The more they begin to believe that they're changing as people - the more powerful the transformation becomes."
>Then, Aiden stands up as he says:"….And as the targets keep thinking more and more that they've changed - their initial characteristics start to fade away. Bringing them further under his suggestion as they keep…."
>Aiden, Phoebe and Jonah then all say in unison:"Thinking under false assumptions."
No.1872
>>1871>Phoebe then says:"Explains their identities as Lucifer and Lilith. The Prideful one and the Seductress. The Temptress of men."
>Stella reflexively holds Aiden's hand tighter before she flashes him a warm smile with her eyes closed."I can't
wait to show her why instigating adultery is a
bad idea. Isn't that right, honey~?"
>Aiden nods, feeling his heart rate increase as Jonah says:"Well, in that case - we just need to locate this Placebo and detain them. We likely deduced the nature of his power - so it shouldn't work on us."
>Assuming a thinking position, Jonah then states:"That said….How can we be certain that Lucifer and Lilith are the only two targets under his implicit control? He likely manipulated them into thinking that he was the source of their growing power - which is technically the truth I suppose. Who else could he have manipulated in this way? We'd need to compile a full list of his subordinates before we make a move to confront him."
>Aiden then says in response to Jonah's statement:"This Placebo person has to keep a list of his existing and potential recruits. Since he can't directly control them, as you said Jonah, he would likely need to do research on his subordinates to determine the best means of indirect manipulation."
>Thinking for another moment, he then says:"We're going to need someone or something that can infiltrate his group and lead us right to him."
>Shaking her head, Phoebe states:"But who though? If we tell them about Placebo's power, it's not going to work on them and he'll immediately become suspicious of them."
>Jonah then says:"Likewise, if we attempt direct psionic manipulation - Placebo will know that their minds have been tampered with, unless we observe his existing targets covertly for months on end. That's not viable given the severity of the situation."
>Stella then states to Aiden very softly:"Besides. You already have enough on your plate between your training and your day job. You don't need to add another problem for Mosaic to solve."
>Aiden thinks for a moment, before he then has an idea."Omnikron. The adaptation machine."
No.1873
>>1872>Stella looks on, confused for a moment before she says:"….
Omnikron? What is that?"
>Aiden explains to Stella what the machine is."Omnikron is a techno-organic android. It's designed to be a sophisticated learning robot that can mimic and adapt to different situations. It has a genome along with metallic components - and they're merged together as much as possible."
>Still seeing Stella's confusion, Aiden elaborates on the concept:"It's a super smart robot that pretend to be a human being, right down to the DNA."
>Understanding the concept, Stella then says:"….So you're going to remote pilot a machine to infiltrate Placebo's organization?"
>Aiden then stands up and begins walking towards the base of the Prism's second floor. As he does so, he continues speaking:"Omnikron's an experimental artificial intelligence as well. It's not a full A.I. - more like a very complicated software program."
>After a few moments, Aiden then returns - using his telekinesis to hover a humanoid android into the air. Landing it down in front of him and the rest of the group, he then says:"It doesn't have to be perfect. Just has to be good enough to avoid raising suspicion."
>Aiden then looks over Omnikron for a moment, opening up its chest compartment to check on the QPU unit installed into the machine.
>After checking with his intuition and hyper-intelligence to ensure that the processor is working properly, he then places it back into the machine and closes the compartment. No.1874
>>1873>Standing back, Aiden then looks over Omnikron for a moment before remotely flipping the machine's "on switch" on the chest.
>Immediately, the metallic blue android then hums to life - glowing with red lights interlaced with its sapphire blue body. The red jewel on its blue helmet also glows brightly as the machine then begins to speak:["Initialization sequence completed. Enter query."]
>Aiden then speaks."Omnikron. Infiltration Mode. Priority - Information Gathering, Covert Operations, Incognitio."
>Recognizing the keyword, Omnikron then further speaks.["Target?"]
>Aiden states:"Placebo. Origin Unknown. Identity Unknown. Organization Unknown. Only links include 'Lucifer' and 'Lilith' - category, Para-Humans."
>Immediately understanding, Omnikron then also states:["Combat parameters?"]
>Aiden responds in turn."Non-lethal. Combat is last resort. Infiltration is the priority."
>Silent for another moment, Omnikron then speaks:"Beginning test operation under assigned parameters."
>Omnikron's body then begins glowing rapidly with red light - illuminating the entire cave. As the light dies down, a different figure takes their place as they speak."Hello, Aiden. I'd like to talk to you about the Meta-Gene Research Division Grants at Archeon."
>Dana Desmond appears in Omnikron's place - acting nearly identical to her real human counterpart. Looking over the rest of the people in the Prism, 'Dana' then narrows her eyes at Phoebe, stating:"Oh. Miss Grayson. I didn't expect to see you here of all places. I assume running Eros has impacted your duties as Vice Chair of Archeon then?"
>Noticing Jonah, her face then lights up instead, saying:"Oh, Mister Grayson! I didn't know you were here with your brother! Please, if there's anything I can do to assist you with your work, notify me. I still remember the work you did for us regarding peptide receptor binding for MHP-002 and MHP-003 proteins."
>Looking more notably interested in Jonah than Phoebe in her behavior, Phoebe then scoffs as she says:"Oh that's Dana alright."
>Turning to Aiden, Phoebe says:"She still trying to get in your pants?"
>Stella's hand instinctively crushes a metallic bench she was leaning against on the mention of that intention from Dana."….I'm sorry,
what?"
No.1875
>>1874>Looking amused, Phoebe then says:"Dana's not a bad woman - but her family life's a bit of a mess. I won't go into the details - but she clearly has a thing for my brothers over here."
>Raising an eyebrow, Stella then says:"She has to be in her late 30s at the earliest given how Damian is her son. Yet she doesn't look like it."
>Instinctively, Stella's eyes narrow as she says:"Is she a magician? Sorceress?"
>Shaking her head, Phoebe then says:"No. She just takes a pharmaceutical drug created through my father's research. Slows down aging considerably."
>Jonah then speaks up, stating:"Still, this behavioral profile of Dana is clearly outdated - seeing as how Omnikron only responded to us three, and not Stella."
>Nodding, Aiden then says:"It'll suffice. We'll just need to train it on all the publicly available data we have on Lucifer and Lilith. Placebo's likely looking for new recruits, so we'll have to fabricate something for them to work with."
>Thinking, Aiden then states:"I can load some Meta-Human Gene profiles onto Omnikron's genome and make them powerful enough to grab their attention. All that's needed is an identity for them to endear themselves towards."
No.1876
>>1875>'Dana' then stands still, crossing her arms in annoyance as she looks at Aiden. "Deactivate the test, Omnikron. Pass Code: Dynamorphic Sequencing."
>'Dana' nods and the same bright red light as before emanates from her body - before returning back to Omnikron's default form.
>Aiden then states:"Give me a few hours to load the templates and build the profiles. I'm also going to need to give the system time to fire up a new memory portfolio for her - in case they have an actual telepath."
>Jonah and Phoebe nod as they start to leave the area - walking away to attend to their own matters.
>Stella stays behind, now walking up behind Aiden and wrapping her arms around his waist. Leaning over his shoulder again, she whispers.["I'm staying right here. Just in case you don't have any ideas."]
>Aiden sighs as he then says:"We both know that was never even a possibility."
>Stella then gives an amused response, as she kisses Aiden's right cheek, stating:"No, I just wanted an excuse to spend more time alone with you~."
No.1877
>>1876>Date: May 6th, 2017>Time: 11:00 AM>Location: Archeon Complex Rooftops
>Mosaic then finishes surveying his creation once more - as a figure rockets across the sky like a missile. The figure, wearing a sleek outfit with energy wings, quickly lands on the ground beside Mosaic. "Ahhh. That's so much fun! I love flying!"
>Andromeda then stretches her back and twists left and right to work out her core - leaving Mosaic to see her exposed and muscular abs.
>Looking away, he then brings her attention back towards his creation."Right…Well. I'm finished with the profile construction."
>Holding out a hand in a gesture to bring attention to the woman wearing a gold and black outfit, complete with a staff and a "mystical" motif - Mosaic then says:"Andromeda. Meet Lumina. Sanctuary City's newest 'Meta-Human' figure."
>Taking a moment to look over the female Meta-Human with a sleek appearance, Andromeda takes a note of her wings, her pink color choice and her helmet - which is obscuring her face.
>Looking back at Mosaic for a moment, Andromeda then gives him an amused look, stating:"What? The genuine article wasn't good enough for you?"
>Sighing, Mosaic states:"I'll admit, you
were a significant influence on the creative process."
"Oh I bet."
>Andromeda then takes Mosaic's hand in her own, stating:"You really can't get enough of me, can you~?"
No.1878
>>1877>Sensing Mosaic's face turning red behind his helmet, Andromeda then gives him a warm smile as she states:"Relax. I'm just teasing you."
>Andromeda then traces her finger across Mosaic's chest as she whispers:"For now~"
>Trying to regain his composure, Mosaic finally does after a few seconds before sighing. He then says:"Well, at the very least - we can finish this first."
>Nodding at 'Lumina' - he then states:"I built her around your specifications. Gave her Meta-Human abilities involving energy projection, flight and light creation. Someone well rounded and versatile enough to get their attention."
>Silent for a moment, he then says:"As she's going to have to attack the MRD situated around Jason's manor to draw them out - since they're likely watching him right now anyways."
>Andromeda gives Mosaic a look as she states:"Playing with fire there, honey."
>Nodding, he then says:"But it's the best way to convince them that she's someone who can help them. If she appears like a person who has a grievance against Jason - they're more likely to trust her. Jason's identity and residence are available knowledge - so her appearance wouldn't be seen as too suspicious either."
No.1879
>>1878>Assuming a thinking position, he states:"In fact, there are probably Meta-Humans already there who are attempting something right now."
>Andromeda then removes herself from her embrace of Mosaic to start pacing back and forth. Hands behind her back, she then finishes Mosaic's statements, saying:"So after she convinces them that she's worth the effort to recruit - they take
her back to their base where their boss is…"
>Mosaic nods and concludes the plan outline, saying:"Before Omnius and I can then use our powers on him and the others - to incapacitate them after learning where the rest of Placebo's operatives are."
>Crossing his arms, Mosaic then looks up into the sky as he states:"I just need to wait for Omnius to arrive - then we can start the plan."
>Andromeda then circles around back to Mosaic, placing her hand over his shoulder as she leans back in to speak to her fiancé."You really don't need me for this - but I'm going to stick around. I want to be reminded of how capable you are."
>Teasing Mosaic once more, Andromeda looks satisfied at his embarrassed response before stating:"How are you going to track Lumina once she's been moved away?"
>Mosaic uncrosses his arms and taps the front of his helmet with two gloved fingers, stating:"Instantaneous Transmission. Omnikron has an energy signature and a psionic signature - so I can track it like I can track anyone else."
>Satisfied with Mosaic's answer to her, Andromeda then leans back from Mosaic's shoulder and stands beside him - hands on her hips."Well then. Time to wait for your second best friend."
"We're…not quite there yet."
"As far as I'm concerned, you're his only friend outside of that woman that Hyperia mentioned."
>Scoffing, Mosaic then states:"Yeah, well. We'll see soon enough. Just waiting on him to arrive as I said before."
>Mosaic then crosses his arms again and looks up at the sky - waiting for Omnius to arrive. No.1881
>>1880>Mosaic nods at Lumina as he says:"That's Omnikron. They're appearing as Lumina - the programmed identity I made for them."
>Lumina then nods and takes a bow, stating:"Master Omnius."
>Mosaic then states:"Once Lumina's in position - she'll be able to distract Lucifer and Lilith so that we can properly read their minds and rip out whatever information they have."
No.1883
>>1882>Mosaic nods as he states:"More or less. Once she's done so - she'll likely draw Lucifer and Lilith out of hiding to talk to her."
>Turning to Lumina, Mosaic then says:"Alright, Lumina. You can go start the mission."
>Nodding, Lumina then flies up into the air - and rockets away with supersonic speed - creating a trail of bright light behind her once she's far enough away from the Archeon Complex to not give her flight pattern away.
>Looking back at Andromeda and Omnius, Mosaic then states:"Let's get going then. I'll shield us with a magical ward and a perception spell - so we should be undetectable."
>Making a set of gestures with his hands, Mosaic then creates a large sphere of bright red energy and light around them - which then dissipates as the red light is absorbed by them all."There. Let's go."
>Mosaic then takes the lead as the others begin to fly after him too. No.1884
>>1883>Location: Residential Area - Khyber Manor>Time: 11:30 AM
>MRD agents have their hands full as they attempt to defend Khyber Manor against waves of Meta-Human criminals. Various Brigadiers - new recruits to their group, continue trading blows with the MRD. Constant grappling, punching and kicking occurs - as the MRD agents are barely able to keep the waves of young men from scaling over the fences towards the manor."Where's backup?! We're being swarmed here!"
>Large fireballs are lobbed from the more experienced Brigadiers - creating miniature explosions as they react with exposed car engines. The knockback of the explosion wave sends dozens of MRD troops and Brigadiers flying backwards - while more enemies start to appear.
>MRD Hovercraft begin to appear from above - the reinforcements. As they start delivering heavy tranq fire and flashbang grenades from above - they're suddenly attacked by large pulses of light. "What the-?! Get a visual on that photon blast!"
>As the MRD Hovercraft turn around - they come face to face with Lumina, who smiles. The female Meta-Human then continues firing blasts of concussive photon beams at the MRD Hovercraft - blinding them as they're knocked out of their flight path and towards the ground."Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! Evacuate!"
>The MRD agents in the various hovercraft then activate their emergency evacuation seats - and jettison out of the hovercraft with active parachutes.
>As they fall down into the active warzone appearing before them - they begin drawing their blasters and stun batons, starting to fight against the Brigadier wave as they curse to themselves."Damn Metas appearing out of everywhere now! We're not enough to protect Khyber! Where's the rest of the reinforcements?!?!"
>A MRD agent whacks a Brigadier in the head with their stun baton - frying their spinal nervous system and sending them knocked to the ground, unconscious. "Handling disturbances all over the city! Apparently it's those winged bastards from before!"
"Then this new woman's probably with them….Damnit."
>Lumina then flies overhead - making her way towards the Khyber Manor….. No.1885
>>1884>Inside of the manor, Jason is pacing back and forth after seeing the chaos outside for the past ten minutes."What the hell? Why is anyone after
me? I haven't done anything wrong!"
>Looking up at Jeremiah, who's guarding the entrance with his broadsword, Jason then shouts:"It doesn't make any
sense, Jeremiah! I don't have any public feuds with anyone! I'm a philanthropist! Unless…"
>A realization comes over Jason's mind for a moment, as he curses under his breath.["Hannah you complete and utter bitch. If this is your doing I swear to God. I will rip every single penny you've taken away from me back right now - and toss you in prison myself."]
>Grimacing, he then looks up, only to see the door get blown open by Lumina. As the angelic figure hovers in the entrance of the house, she then looks to the side - seeing Jeremiah swinging his sword at her.
>Casually, Lumina holds out her hand, generating an energy construct out of pure pink light - which blocks the strike. Surprised, Jeremiah then says:"….You're not a normal Meta-Human."
>Smiling, Lumina then flicks her arm - creating a photon blast that sends Jeremiah spiraling backwards.
>Stunned, Jason looks at the woman for a moment before backing up. As he does so, he then says:"….Who are you? What do you want?"
>Saying nothing, Lumina only continues smiling as she then stops moving forward - only now hovering in the air. No.1886
>>1885>As she then stops moving, Lumina hears a voice calling out from behind the open door."Now hold on 'ere sweet cheeks."
>Turning her head behind her shoulder, Lumina can see three figures standing in the doorway behind her.
>Lucifer and Lilith are present, with a new, third woman standing beside them. The woman has gold armor with a black undersuit - and a seemingly kitsune fox aesthetic. Holding a golden staff in her hand, she seemingly radiates mystical energies - that Lumina cannot detect."……….You are Lucifer and Lilith, I presume?"
>Still staring at her ass, Lucifer slowly nods as he mutters to himself:["…Like a fuckin' cake. Damn…."]
>Rolling her eyes at her partner's behavior, Lilith then gives Lumina a smile as she states:"Quite right, my dear. This is our colleague - Pandora. Our resident master of the mystic arts…."
>Turning around to face the woman, Lilith watches as Pandora is entirely silent - holding her staff with one hand.
>Lumina then fully turns around and lowers herself to the ground. As she begins sauntering over to the three Para-Humans, she then says:"I see. Why did you call for me to stop?"
>Lumina says, once she stops a few feet before the three Para-Humans, her hand now casually resting on her hip, with her other hand leaning on her side."Why, to recruit you of course. Your quick work of those MRD troops impressed us."
>Looking behind Lumina at a still nervous Jason, Lilith then licks her lips at him - causing him to step back, paralyzed with fear.{"Who the hell are these people?!"}
>Turning her attention back to Lumina, Lilith then states:"Besides. We've been on the look out for more potential candidates - given our boss's…..recluse tendencies."
>Lumina thinks the offer over for a moment before saying:"If I agree to work for you - what is in it for me?"
>Lilith then smiles widely as she begins to lay out the pitch."I'm
so glad you asked~. We're able to bestow a certain….
gift on those powerful enough to answer the call. Our master - he brings out the potential hidden in all of us. The potential to do a great many things…."
>Placing a hand on Lumina's shoulder, she then says:"Pandora. If you may."
No.1887
>>1886>Pandora then slowly walks forward, placing a pair of two fingers on Lumina's helmet. As she does so, Lumina turns her attention to Lilith and says:"What is this for?"
>Lilith continues smiling, stating:"Forgive me…Lumina. We must ensure a certain level of….'transparency' between ourselves and our new recruits. Just a safety precaution."
>After a few seconds, Pandora then stands back, saying:"…..She's clear."
"Good~. Wonderful~."
>Clapping her hands together, Lilith sighs - with a little too much pleasure in her voice. Now, she turns her attention back to Lumina, stating:"With all of that set, now we can return to our master - after grabbing Khyber."
>Lumina then smiles herself as she states:"Master, the trap is set."
>Confused, Lilith's expression immediately changes as she says:"….Master? What are you talking about-"
>Lumina's body then glows brightly - stunning and incapacitating all three of them with a glow that fills the entire manor.
>At the same time, all three of the figures fall to the ground - as they begin to feel immense psionic pressure burrowing into their brains and their minds. As they scream in pain, the light then subsides. No.1888
>>1887>In that moment, reality seemingly ripples in a distortion - revealing the standing forms of Mosaic, Andromeda and Omnius. Lumina has seemingly disappeared - with those three vigilantes standing in her place.
>As Mosaic stretches out his hand, he grabs Pandora's staff remotely with his telekinesis. Before Pandora can react - the object is then transporting seemingly into nothingness, stating:"Useless without that staff of yours, Sorcerer."
>Confused, Lilith blinks for a moment as the light fully fades. However, she remembers the voice - and as her vision returns, rage begins to fill her mind."…….
You!"
>Andromeda then immediately moves forward, kicking Lilith in the chest and sending her spiraling backwards. As she spins out of the room and out into the manor front - Andromeda then says:"Yeah,
me."
>Lucifer attempts to respond - aiming his gun at Andromeda, only for him to suddenly feel immobilized. Mosaic's outstretched hand continues restraining Lucifer in place, with enough psionic force to keep a cruise ship locked in place."Now we know enough about you and your master to finish this once and for all."
No.1891
>>1890>As Lilith is sent sprawling across the lawn outside of the manor, she quickly rises to her feet - seeing red with anger. Immediately manifesting her handguns, she takes aim at Andromeda - and fires volley after volley of seemingly hellish fire at her.
>Weaving through the hellfire blasts with a speed and grace that surprises Lilith, the vigilante then appears right before her, stating:"Still a skank."
>Moving at nearly imperceptible speeds, Andromeda then delivers a spinning roundhouse kick to Lilith's face - hooking the kick and dragging her into the ground. As she makes a larger crater that shatters the nearby street - everyone beyond the gate looks on, stunned.
>At that moment, Mosaic slowly hovers out of the manor's entrance after Andromeda - landing softly beside her. As he places his hand on her shoulder, he says:"Good job. I'll take it from here."
>Seeing the barely conscious face of Lilith - Mosaic watches as she struggles to move. Still feeling pained from the strike, Lilith can only squirm as Mosaic kneels down beside her and places a pair of fingers to her mask. As he does so, red and purple energy arcs from his fingertips - as he obtains a psychic vision similar to Omnius's own - after he scanned the minds of Lucifer and Pandora earlier."….So that's where he is."
>Then after absorbing all of Lilith's knowledge, Mosaic knocks her out with a psionic energy pulse. Now rising up to his feet, Mosaic turns to Andromeda and says:"I know where Placebo is, and what they're after. At least as much as these three knew."
>Nodding, Andromeda then says:"Let's get going then."
>Looking back down at Lilith, he then says:"..Actually. I have an idea. Give me a moment."
>Walking back inside of the manor's entrance, Mosaic moves towards Omnius, stating:"Did you get everything you could out of them?"
No.1893
>>1892>Mosaic nods as he then makes a gesture with his hand. Instantly, Lilith appears next to Lucifer and Pandora. "Alright. Let me try something now….."
>Making another series of gestures, now with both hands, Mosaic raises all 3 Para-Humans into the air and holds them in place. After doing so, he then holds his right hand out and makes one more gesture - building up magical power in the form of a spell that's about to be cast."Animam Convertere!"
>Immediately, all 3 of the Para-Humans are then imbued with a bright red light that courses through them. Space-Time around the 3 Para-Humans then inverts in terms of color and contrast briefly, and rapidly. The rapid flickering of inverted contrast increases at an accelerating rate - until another flash of bright red light appears.
>As the light dissipates, the 3 Para-Humans then drop to the floor, now awake. Panting, they then fall silent for a moment. Then, Lilith looks up first, stating:"Sir."
>Nodding, Mosaic then stands with his hands behind his back. Addressing them individually, he then states:"You're all wanted criminals at this point, and not much can change that. Lay low outside of the city and wait for my command."
>Turning towards Omnius, Mosaic then speaks again:"…..I think I know someone who could use people with your expertise. Now that you're on the right side."
>Lilith and the other 2 Para-Humans then nod as they remain kneeling."Of course, Master Mosaic."
>Sighing, Mosaic then says:"Just Mosaic. Also, before I forget."
>Reaching out into seeming nothingness, Mosaic pulls out the staff from before - handing it back to Pandora."You're going to need that, as well."
>Effortlessly catching the staff in one hand, Pandora nods as she speaks:"We'll do as you ask, Lord Mosaic."
>Sighing again, Mosaic places a hand to his helmet, groaning lightly."Again,
just Mosaic. I'm not your master, just your advisor now."
>All three of them then speak in unison:"Of course, Master Mosaic."
No.1894
>>1893>Not even bothering to correct them this time, Mosaic then casually waves his hand in a disregarding motion."If you insist. Go hide in the abandoned safehouses that I just revealed to you in your minds. They're old MRD outposts that aren't being used anymore. Keep a low profile, and do
nothing until I say so. Is that clear?"
>All 3 of the Para-Humans nod quickly and resolutely."Good. Off you go then."
>As he waves them off with another dismissal, Mosaic watches as the 2 hellfire figures then disappear in plumes of….well…hellfire.
>Meanwhile, Pandora disappears in a burst of bright blue light - faint traces of mana particles emanating from her energy burst as she leaves the area.
>Turning towards Omnius, Mosaic crosses his arms as he states:"You're probably wanting an explanation of what just happened, aren't you?"
>Mosaic says, waiting for Omnius's response. No.1896
>>1895>Mosaic shakes his head as he then explains."No. You would be able to sense a psionic discharge if I tried to manipulate their minds."
>Holding out his hands - Mosaic then generates small red energy spheres, with the same contrasting inversion color effects as before."I used an inversion spell. More or less what I did was reset their moral alignments away from 'bad' and towards 'good'."
>As the energy spheres dissipate, Mosaic dusts his gloves off as he continues speaking:"Remember what I said Crepido did to Faust? This is a version of that."
>Looking back at where the 3 Para-Humans once were, Mosaic then elaborates further:"They were incredibly devoted to Placebo because of the nature of his power. They were so deep into their delusions and misguided thoughts that they assumed he was the one responsible for their powers growing - and as such they gave him their respect."
>Making a gesture with his hand by flipping it from a palm down to palm up position - Mosaic then concludes:"So if an inversion spell swings their moral dynamics and perspectives around. Then it takes the focus of their devotion away from Placebo…."
>He then pauses for effect before finishing his explanation:"…..and instead brings it to me - their enemy, who is now their boss. Inversion."
>Mosaic then waits for Omnius's response. No.1898
>>1897>Mosaic shakes his head at Omnius as he states:"When Faust nearly killed me the first time, that was life and death."
>Bringing his hand to his helmet to assume a thinking position, he then states:"But when he regenerated and attacked the city again - Crepido decided to invert him instead of killing him. And that time?"
>Mosaic pauses for effect."She could've
easily killed him - and I could've too by then. She chose a different solution instead."
>Gesturing back to the place where the Para-Humans were, he then says:"They're Para-Humans, Omnius. Meta-Human dampeners won't work on them, meaning they can't be contained. Taking them to Crepido's 'base' is also an unnecessary risk because the less people who know about that, the better."
>Now gesturing back to Omnius, he concludes by stating:"And to be frank? I don't want to kill them or hurt them either."
>Gesturing back to Omnius, he then says:"It was the best option I felt was there at the time. If you don't believe me about what Crepido did - go ask her yourself."
No.1899
>>1898"Yeah, but Faust was… connected to a demon or something? I don't know how this magic shit works."
>He crosses his arms. "Anyway. I would've just, you know. Put them in prison like everyone else. Even if dampeners don't work, you seem to have a spell for anything. I would guess you could just take their powers away or something, right?"
>He continues to stare at Mosaic. He seems like he's about to say something, only to stop and change the topic. Annoyed, he says:"Whatever. Are we going to find their boss now?"
No.1900
>>1899>Mosaic shakes his head and he then says to Omnius:"No, you have a point. I'm not as well versed in it as Crepido and Doctor are, but I could've potentially done a power drain."
>Sighing, he then says:"Sorry. I'm supposed to be better about thinking quickly and thinking on my feet. I'll ask Doctor to see if he can come up with a better solution later."
>On the topic of their boss, Mosaic states:"Not right now. He'd be expecting them back already - so the fact that they're not back would likely put him in panic mode. He's not going to do anything for a while now - so we have a window of time to come up with a plan."
>Sighing, he then states:"Again, sorry. You know what happened recently when it comes to me losing control of my anger."
>Shaking his head, Mosaic says:"I don't want to be in that position ever again. We can ask Crepido what to do about them."
>Looking around, he then states:"But we should get out of here first. Back to the rooftop, and we can ask her."
No.1902
>>1901>Location: Sanctuary City - Rooftop>Time: 12:00 PM
>Mosaic, Andromeda and Omnius are standing on the rooftop of the Archeon Complex - across from Crepido. After spending the last 5 minutes explaining the situation, Mosaic then concludes by saying:"The three Para-Humans are holed up in different safe houses across the city. I gave them explicit instructions not to leave - and not to do anything until I said so."
>Nodding at Omnius, Mosaic says:"….To Orion's credit, a power draining or absorption spell could've worked - but my mind flashed back to what you did against Faust."
>Still having his arms crossed, Mosaic turns away from Crepido - obviously not thrilled with having her around."…..Because I didn't want to
hurt them in any way. Because I'm
not that kind of person anymore."
>Andromeda sees Mosaic's tone inflection and annunciation on the word 'hurt' and walks up to him. Placing a shoulder on him, she says:"…..That isn't all you are, yes. You're trying to change, and it's working. Slowly."
>Andromeda then looks at Crepido, stating:"As Aiden said - he inverted their morality - but their sheer devotion swung to him instead. Which is why we're asking you now for help, Stephanie."
>Andromeda then says to Crepido with a feeling of anticipation in her voice:"Can you
help us?"
No.1903
>>1902>Crepido stares at Mosaic and Andromeda, watching their body language. "Okay. Firstly. You can both calm down. I'm not going to bite you. And second."
>She turns her attention primarily on Mosaic."You learned the inversion spell from Isaac, right? Did he never tell you that it isn't just for inverting people's personalities?"
>She places her hands on her hips, eyes drooping as she becomes visibly annoyed at the thought of such a mistake."The inversion spell can be used on almost anything. You can use it to invert positions in space."
>Suddenly Mosaic and Andromeda find their positions swapped, as Stephanie apparently hasn't moved a muscle."You can invert the directories of projectiles. And most importantly for this, you can invert someone's ability to do something. As in, you can take away their Para-Human abilities."
>Her focus remains on Mosaic. "So here's what I would do. Gather them up. And return their mindsets back to normal. Then invert their abilities. Afterwards they can be imprisoned and hopefully if this country's justice system does something right for once, be rehabilitated."
No.1904
>>1903>Struck by the realization, Mosaic then says:"…..I wasn't aware that the inversion was
that abstract. Animam Convertere was instructed to me to be entirely perspective focused."
>Looking down at his gloved hand, Mosaic then states:"…..Alright then. I'll do that."
>Silent for a moment, Mosaic then begrudgingly says:"…..I wouldn't be against further elaboration on the intrinsic nature of my spells either…."
>He then crosses his arms and turns away, obviously embarrassed and emotionally conflicted.
>Andromeda looks at Mosaic for a moment before turning her attention back towards Crepido."Should Aiden do that now while you observe him? See how he does?"
>Andromeda says in an excited tone of voice. No.1905
>>1904"Well. It still has it's limits. But it can do more than you expected."
>Crepido looks at Andromeda. "If you want me to. Then yes. I can stay and watch."
No.1906
>>1905>Mosaic then takes a deep breath and focuses."Here goes nothing, then."
>He then makes his quick gestures, using his wrist instead of his arms. As he does so, space-time distorts in three distinct areas before him. Suddenly, the 3 Para-Humans from before appear, surprised.
>Turning around, Lilith then begins speaking, stating:"Mosaic? What's wrong? Why did you summon us?"
>Silent for a moment, Mosaic then says:"To not let you off the hook so easily. My mistake."
>Making a circling motion with both hands, Mosaic then begins generating a large sphere of red energy. The same contrast and color inverting phenomena flickers within them as he then expands the sphere."Animam Convertere!"
>Pushing the sphere forward - Mosaic then watches for a moment as it expands across all 3 of the Para-Humans. Then, before the effect ends, he then twists his hands in a sliding motion - as if to turn a plate on the surface of a sphere.
>In that moment, the energy of the sphere turns from red to blue - before it then dissipates.
>Reeling for a moment, Lilith then stares at Mosaic, angry."YOU! BASTARD!"
>Lilith then holds out her hand to summon her handguns - but nothing happens. Shocked, she holds out her hands again, but still nothing."What….What the?!"
>Mosaic then pushes his hand out - sending a wave of psionic force to knock them out. As they all fall down on the floor again, Mosaic then turns back to Crepido as he bows."Thank you."
No.1908
>>1907>Location: ?????>Time: 1:00 PM
>Inside of a hollowed out tunnel network deep inside of an island - somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean, a hooded man sits on a nearby rock formation, sighing in annoyance."Idiots. The lot of them….."
>As the figure places their hands on their head in frustration and annoyance, they can then hear a voice speaking from right behind them."Failed again, Placebo?"
>Spinning around, Placebo looks at the figure standing before him. A man in his late 20s with blonde hair and sunglasses. As the man smiles at him, Placebo says, nervously:"T-There were complications that came up."
>The blonde man with sunglasses looks at the nervous figure in the hood, stating:"…..Complications, are they? That's what they are?"
>Stammering, Placebo then states:"Just give me more time! I can get someone to build up a distribution network and control the flow of information-"
>The man in sunglasses interjects, irritated himself."I gave you an entire
month, Placebo. I gave you access to technology that can stimulate divergent evolution in human beings. I even managed to requisition you a fabled "sorceress" from another dimension!"
>Putting his hands up, Placebo then states:"I know! I know! But those vigilantes got in the way!"
>Silent, the man with the sunglasses then says:"….Then it can't be helped. I'm going to have to leave, then come back once I have an actual plan. This slow burn approach won't work anymore."
No.1909
>>1908>Silent, Placebo then states:"Hey….HEY! What about me?!"
>Placebo then flails their arms around, panicked, stating:"They're gonna be coming for me next! What if they kill me?!"
>Turning his attention back towards Placebo, the figure then says:"What do I care what happens to you,
insect? You're a pathetic excuse for a person. You couldn't even deliver me the objectives in a timely manner."
>Holding out his hands in what appears to be resignation, he then states:"I knew relying on inferior humans would lead to ineffective results. We outgrew you for a
reason."
>Irritated, Placebo then rushes towards the figure - pulling back their first to attack."Asshole! What the fuck do you know about us?!"
>Before his fist can connect, however, his wrist is grabbed by an unknown force and slammed into the ground - after flipping him into the air first."GYARGH!"
>As Placebo lands on the ground and yelps in pain, he clutches his now broken wrist."What the……"
>Beside the blonde man in sunglasses, a figure materializes - who was previously cloaked. Sporting a black armor with orange light accents, said figure stands beside the man with sunglasses as he states:"Good work, Maxwell."
>Silent for a moment, Maxwell then says:"What's the point of this, Laplace? The Earthlings are weak and idiotic - frail."
>He says, pointing to the figure of Placebo, now writhing in pain."He couldn't even use a sustained evolution device properly."
No.1910
>>1909>Looking down at Placebo as he slowly struggles to his feet - Laplace watches as Maxwell swiftly kicks him in the face, knocking him down again."Weak."
>Placebo stands up once more, attempting a final attack with his fists - as Maxwell then moves towards him. "RAAARGGHH!!!"
>Placebo then throws another attack with his fist - only for Maxwell to gut punch him with enough force to displace the air in the cavern. Now coughing up blood, Placebo then staggers back to the ground - keeling over."Leave him, Maxwell. We need to return."
>Silent, Maxwell takes one last look at Placebo's injured body - before he then turns and walks towards a wall in cavern with Laplace."Where the hell are you two going?!"
>Placebo says, still coughing up blood as he struggles to focus.
>Laplace turns around and says:"Why, returning to where we came from. Back to the Silent Planet."
>Stunned, Placebo then mutters:"What the fuck are you talking…about…."
>Falling to the ground as his injuries begin to take hold - Placebo can only watch as the walls seemingly part open - revealing a large futuristic living space inside. Stunned, he then watches as Laplace laughs.
>His body then flashes with a bright gold light - as he now manifests a black armor similar to Maxwell's. Unlike Maxwell however, Laplace's armor has gold accent lights."From the Silent Planet we are - and to that which we return. I'll leave it to you to parse the meaning of that statement."
>As Maxwell walks into the room - Laplace then says:"It's been fun, Placebo. You were a good experiment. A failed experiment, but a valuable experiment nonetheless. Don't look too surprised - you're all expendable at the end of the day."
>Laplace gives Placebo one last smile before walking inside of the cave wall - with the door closing behind him shut. After a few seconds, a noise and a rumbling sound both emanate from the cave rapidly. Then, once a few more seconds have passed - half of the cave network seemingly disappears into thin air."……Fucking hell. This is bullshit….God damnit….."
>As Placebo falls unconscious - giving in to his injuries after withstanding them up to that point.[The End]