/simu/ - >Date: May 15th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Archeon Complex>Time: 5:00 PM>Archeon's Genetics division is busy as always - with various laboratory technicians continuing their research experiments. Overseeing the entire endeavor, is Dr. Dana De

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[Event] - "Wuthering Nature" Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 19:51:40 No.1997

>Date: May 15th, 2017
>Location: Sanctuary City - Archeon Complex
>Time: 5:00 PM

>Archeon's Genetics division is busy as always - with various laboratory technicians continuing their research experiments. Overseeing the entire endeavor, is Dr. Dana Desmond - maintaining her position as chief geneticist and molecular biologist at the company.

"Anna, I'm going to need that enyzme production chemical in a few days. Josh, make sure the codon readers are up and running for next week. I'm not going to allow a poor demonstration for Archeon - unlike what happened with DataDrive."

>As she continues barking orders with a concerned, but stern demeanor - she then hears a buzzing sound from inside of her coat. Blinking, she then answers her phone, as the tone in her voice changes immediately.

"Oh, sweetie! How are you?"

>Stopping for a moment, Dana then waits for the person to respond before saying:

"Well it's good to hear that. It's your day off for the week, so I hope you'll spend at least some of that time studying for your final exam!"

>More murmuring from the phone's speaker before Dana concludes:

"I love you too sweetie! See you this weekend!"

>Ending the call, Dana then sighs as she flashes a weak smile:

"Just like your father…."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 19:58:28 No.1998

File: 1685735907380-0.png (649.15 KB, 1000x438, Sanctuary City - 3.png)

File: 1685735907380-1.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

File: 1685735907380-2.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

File: 1685735907380-3.jpg (94.5 KB, 1917x875, Webbing.jpg)

File: 1685735907380-4.gif (7.91 MB, 720x404, Swing - 3.gif)

>>1997
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown Sector
>Time: 5:00 PM

>Flipping over another large car, Arachnid spins around and webs the car to the ground - using a nearby building wall as the support connection. Turning back around, he then looks at the partially transformed visage of the Brigadiers before him. Their arms are larger and paler, with bone protrusions sprouting out from almost every angle.

"Not too far from a 90s character, wouldn't you agree?"

>Arachnid says, gesturing a hand at the Brigadiers.

"Shut the fuck up web brain!"

"You talk too much!"

>The Brigadiers then begin rushing down Arachnid, who casually sidesteps them with his movements. Seemingly appearing as a blur despite his laid-back demeanor, the Brigadiers can only look on in astonishment.

"What the-"

"How the fuck's he so fast-"

>Before both of them can respond, their faces are then both webbed shut - surprising them both. As they both reach for the silk adhesive covering their mouths…..

"Sorry about that, it'll dissolve by the time you wake up."

>As both Brigadiers give confused murmurings - Arachnid then webs them both by the hoods and drags them towards each other.

>The Brigadiers then scream louder, before they headbutt each other with superhuman force, knocking each other out. As they both fall to the ground, unconscious, Arachnid walks towards them, saying:

"Really goes to show what you can do when you put your minds together, right?"

>Silent as he remembers that they're unconscious, Arachnid then groans as he mutters:

"…..Yeah well, it was funny in my head."

>Without missing a beat, Arachnid then leaps up dozens of feet into the air - and begins swinging away at superhuman speeds.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:06:04 No.1999

File: 1685736364007-0.jpg (126.58 KB, 1070x470, The Prism.jpg)

File: 1685736364007-1.jpg (94.6 KB, 800x518, Computer.jpg)

File: 1685736364007-2.png (2.89 MB, 998x2000, Mosaic.png)

File: 1685736364007-3.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1685736364007-4.jpg (49.7 KB, 852x480, Hologram Earth Map.jpg)

>>1998
>Location: The Prism
>Time: 6:00 PM

>Mosaic continues typing at his computer as he senses a figure's arrival. Not even turning his head to see who has arrived, Mosaic instinctively and psionically knows, stating:

"You're getting better at situational evaluations. Good work on stopping the Brigadiers from robbing Caduceus Bank."

>As he swings into the Prism from the hidden entrance of the cave network - Arachnid then lands on the ceiling as he says:

"It's no big deal. Besides."

>Lowering down on a silk line in front of the large computer, and to Mosaic's side - Arachnid then states:

"I had a good teacher."

>Giving a slight nod of recognition, Mosaic then turns his attention back to the computer as he says:

"Remember what I said happened earlier? About the physician running that under-the-cover clinic?"

>Nodding upside down, Arachnid maintains his inverted yo-yo position on the silk line as he states:

"Yeah. The one that's loaded up with humour. Still can't believe she managed to get her hands on the stuff."

>Bringing up a picture of Sanctuary City, with different overlays of specific objects and marker points on the map - Mosaic continues speaking:

"She's not the problem. It's the distributors in general that I'm interested in. I said I'd leave her distributor alone, and I will, provided I find how who they are."

>Mosaic then presses a few keys on his keyboard as he then activates another overlay - this time a larger projection of the Earth itself.

"But I'm more worried about whether or not a certain cabal is behind this."

>Sighing, Arachnid turns back towards Mosaic as he flips down onto the ground - landing on his feet effortlessly. As he stands back up, he then says:

"Eukaryon?"

>Mosaic nods.

"Who else, honestly."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:13:28 No.2000

File: 1685736807305-0.png (209.26 KB, 750x422, The Prism - 2.png)

File: 1685736807305-1.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

File: 1685736807305-2.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685736807305-3.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685736807305-4.jpg (125.11 KB, 1024x768, Manifold - 3.jpg)

>>1999
>Looking at the screen once more, Mosaic then states:

"I'm not sure if they're using intermediaries or shell companies, but I've long suspected that Eukaryon got their hands on the humour substance that Chiral created decades ago. His signature's all over the chemical formula, as it matches his older designs found in his lab."

>Silent for a moment, Arachnid then says:

"You think they're reverse engineering his work?"

>Mosaic nods.

"They have to be. Human cloning is generally illegal outside of sanctioned experiments in this country - and most research facilities wouldn't have the know how or the resources to effectively clone human beings this quickly and at this large of a scale. They have to be repurposing the technology and research that Chiral had."

>Now thinking intently, Mosaic interlaces his gloved hands together for a moment. he thinks carefully before stating:

"…..I'll do some more digging. But before that, I had a few things I wanted to tell you."

>Turning in his chair towards Arachnid, Mosaic then says:

"The gear in the cave's yours. All of it."

>Blinking, Arachnid does a double take, stating:

"W-What?! I-Isn't this all of your stuff? Your dad built this place-"

>Mosaic interjects.

"He built out the internal cave structure on his own time to study the effects of subterranean mineral deposits and sediment buildup on soil constitution. I'm the one who turned it into the Prism."

>Making a gesture with his hands as he continues to remain seated in his chair, he then continues:

"In all bluntness, Damian. I could recreate this entire place with a snap. It doesn't mean that much to me on its own. But for you?"

>Mosaic then crosses his arms as he continues staring at his protégé. He then gestures with his hands to his signature vehicles parked off in the distance of the Prism's cave area.

"I can't think of a better owner of this equipment. Manifold and Aurora are all yours. I've already linked them to you anyways."

>Stammering, Arachnid then says:

"S-Still! This is way too soon! I'm not even sure what to say!"

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:21:10 No.2001

File: 1685737270360-0.jpg (126.58 KB, 1070x470, The Prism.jpg)

File: 1685737270360-1.jpg (151.69 KB, 736x1086, Mosaic - 24.jpg)

File: 1685737270360-2.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

File: 1685737270360-3.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

>>2000
>Mosaic gives a soft laugh as he then says:

"You don't have to say anything. You're progressing much quicker than I did when I first started this out."

>Looking off to the side, Mosaic then reminisces about his past experiences before he says:

"Sure, I had the money and the resources. I had the skills, the knowledge. But I didn't have the experience. I didn't have the value of a good teacher right then and there for me either."

>Now looking back at Arachnid, Mosaic then stands up and walks over to him. Placing a hand on his right shoulder, Mosaic says:

"But you do have that, Damian. You have me for a teacher - and there's not much left for me to teach you about being a…."

>Mosaic hesitates as he struggles to say:

"…..Hero."

>Looking away in partial shame over his own past actions and failures, Mosaic then gives a long sigh as he says:

"You'll be better than I was in this position. But I want you taking over for me when it comes to handling most of the major crime in this city."

>Arachnid then looks away himself, in the opposite direction as he says:

"It really does feel like a 'chick leaving the nest' moment."

>Giving a soft laugh, Mosaic turns his attention back towards Arachnid as the latter does the same.

"It's not like that. I'm still going to be here - but I'm going to leave the more reasonable issues to you. I've got bigger fish that I need to worry about frying now - for all of our sakes."

>Patting him on the back, Mosaic then begins walking towards the center of the Prism, stating:

"It's your base just as much as it's mine - like I said. Oh and by the way."

>Looking over his armored shoulder to see Arachnid behind him, Mosaic then says:

"Try and keep this a secret from your friend. As much as she seems capable of handling herself, I wouldn't want her getting involved in this situation with Eukaryon. The less she knows, the better."

>Mosaic then waves at Arachnid, stating:

"Also, it's getting late. You might want to get home now."

>Mosaic then disappears in an instant, startling Arachnid somewhat as he says:

"…..That's so cool. I'm never gonna get used to that though."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:26:12 No.2002

File: 1685737571777-0.png (295.14 KB, 540x304, Sanctuary City - 2.png)

File: 1685737571777-1.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685737571777-2.gif (2.23 MB, 498x277, Arachnid Movement.gif)

File: 1685737571777-3.gif (8.42 MB, 728x408, Swing - 6.gif)

>>2001
>Location: Sanctuary City - Business Sector
>Time: 6:10 PM

>Swinging at high speeds, Arachnid makes his way over to the UP Building in record time. As the building slowly comes into view, he then thinks to himself:

{"What's even more important than the city that has boss acting up like that? Must be real serious…."}

>Shaking it off, he then thinks to himself:

{"I should probably get her a gift or something. What does she like again?"}

>Flipping over the edge of a rooftop, Arachnid then vaults off of a vent protruding out of the ground - flinging himself higher and further into the air. He then continues his silk swinging as he builds up more speed and momentum.

{"Or at least, some kind of token of appreciation. I'm glad she didn't rat me out but……Why put up with me still? I know blackmail's not exactly great - so she's got a lot of willpower for putting up with me too….."}

>After a few more seconds, Arachnid then lands on the wall at the top of the UP Building. As he clings to the surface and begins to look around - he slowly crawls down from the top of the mega structure. Doing so, he then catches a glance of Bella's office…..

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:44:17 No.2003

File: 1685738657043.jpg (258.15 KB, 1000x1555, 6f9c0155b929cfb9eeddfe374f….jpg)

>>2002
>Inside the office, Bella finishes up her work for the day, her computer deliberately pointed in a way that ensures no windows are looking in on the screen, and that any person going in will be facing her as they enter.

>As she types for a second, Bella looks up, then pauses for a moment, having apparently noticed something.

>Bella then presses a button next to her on her desk, causing the windows to blacken, blocking off the view from outside.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:48:07 No.2004

File: 1685738887452.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

>>2003
>Rolling his eyes underneath his helmet, Arachnid then makes a remote call from his suit, waiting as he hears the pinging sound.

{"Seriously. If you don't want to talk, you could've just texted me first."}

>Arachnid says, sitting on the glass with his back sticking to the surface closely.

"………"

>He then continues waiting for the phone to pick up the call from her end.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 20:58:28 No.2005

File: 1685739508818.jpg (151.75 KB, 762x630, Phone-Call.jpg)

>>2004
>The phone rings for a few moments, hanging for just long enough for it to seem like Bella wont answer, before Bella answers.

"Yes, Damian?"

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:02:36 No.2006

File: 1685739756381.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

>>2005
>Irritated, Arachnid then says:

"If you don't want me bothering you, I can leave and go follow up on those leads myself."

>Silent for a moment, he then states:

"Before you ask, I did some digging myself. Kind of helps when a certain someone is your mentor."

>Still sticking to the side of the wall, he then says:

"So if you don't want me wasting your time, I can leave. If by some chance I'm not irritating you, then at least give me something to work with here."

>Holding in a sigh, Arachnid concludes by stating:

"…..Because sometimes I wonder if I'm just a glorified pet to you - since I'm the one out in the doghouse currently."

>Arachnid says, standing sideways on the surface of the building now, and instinctively making a gesture of irritation with his hands - despite the fact that he can't see Bella's response.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:06:05 No.2007

File: 1685739965128.jpg (151.75 KB, 762x630, Phone-Call.jpg)

>>2006
>Bella is silent for a moment.

"Leads on the Crimson Tide?"

>Bella is silent again, for a few more moments this time.

"If so, enter through the main entrance - not in your costume. I will inform the reception staff to let you up to my office."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:14:59 No.2008

File: 1685740498686-0.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1685740498686-1.gif (2.23 MB, 498x277, Arachnid Movement.gif)

File: 1685740498686-2.jpg (1.94 MB, 5323x2200, Lobby.jpg)

File: 1685740498686-3.jpg (42.88 KB, 500x680, Damian - 4.jpg)

>>2007
>Scowling lightly, Arachnid then says:

"Fine."

>His body then camouflages as he begins rapidly gliding down to the ground in front of the skyscraper…..

——————————————————————————————————————————

>A few minutes later, Damian makes his way into the main lobby of the UP building. After fixing his hair, he adjusts his jacket and buttons - before doing the same with his glasses. As he does so, he remembers Mosaic's words in his thoughts:

{"Try and keep this a secret from your friend. As much as she seems capable of handling herself, I wouldn't want her getting involved in this situation with Eukaryon. The less she knows, the better."}

>Looking up at the receptionist making her way to guide him towards Bella's office, he then thinks to himself:

{"I feel like I'm taking a risk even telling her about this. But she might be able to help me find out more about Eukaryon - since they're the ones who attacked Archeon."}

>Looking down at his wrist, Damian's mind flashes back to that day, remembering the gunfire raining out from the guns held by mercenaries. The people shouting and screaming, and the chaos and pandemonium caused by the shattered glass of the recombinant spider cages.

"…….."

——————————————————————————————————————————

>After a few minutes, Damian then makes his way to the door in front of Bella's office. As he stands before the door, he then knocks on it - crossing his arms.

{"She's still blackmailing me - and something tells me the minute I stop being useful to her, she'll turn. Can I even trust her to keep my secret?"}

>Damian thinks to himself as his mind wanders - his expression souring gradually as he does so.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:23:42 No.2009

File: 1685741022476.jpg (380.23 KB, 700x700, 3628ca42dd8971929814c22b34….jpg)

>>2008
>A couple of seconds after Damian knocks, the door opens itself, swinging open to reveal the interior of the office, leaving Damian in the direct line of Bella. Across the room, along the wall where it meets the floor, a quote engraved in gold runs around, stating "Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair.".

>At several angles across the room, vistas of the majority of the city line up with the engraved quote, seemingly applying the city itself to the writing.

>In places where the vistas aren't availabe, various displays switch between the state of UP, measuring metrics that are vital to the ongoing existence of the company. As Damian is greeted by this sight, however, the displays switch themselves off.

>From her desk, Bella looks up at Damian briefly.

"You had the foresight to dress up somewhat smartly, perhaps there's a brain in you yet."

>Bella goes back to looking down at her work on the desk.

"So, what was so urgent that you had to rush here?"

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:31:57 No.2010

File: 1685741517623-0.png (146.05 KB, 300x342, Damian - 3.png)

>>2009
>Looking around at the room, Damian then thinks to himself internally:

{"….She really isn't subtle. That's for certain."}

>Out loud, he then says to Bella:

"I've been trailing the Brigadiers ever since Thrasher was sent to the Spire. They've been disorganized and uncoordinated for the past few weeks because of it. Easy pickings for the MRD."

>Stopping for a moment, Damian then says:

"….But then about a week ago, they suddenly started to work more effectively. Like a team. They started attacking MRD convoys during supply depot runs - going after the APCs carrying the battery cells they need to replace the dampeners in their precincts. Remember, these are the guys who used to think that attacking malls was a good use of their time."

>Crossing his arms, he then elaborates further by stating:

"So I started doing reconnaissance myself. Tailing them every night. Marking their hideouts and outposts. That's when I learned something."

>Damian then fishes a small device out of his jacket pocket and flips it to Bella with his thumb.

"Sandbox environment to check if you still don't trust me. Data's all recorded there. Visual and audio evidence of the Helixers working with the Brigadiers."

>Stopping for a moment in order to allow the severity of the situation to sink in - Damian then resumes his explanation.

"Traction's leading them, and whatever's left of the Helixers since Titanomachia quit, and Thrasher went to jail like I said. From what I can gather, he decided to start working with the Crimson Tide - and as a token of good faith? He went to go enlist the help of the Brigadiers - permanently absorbing them into the larger organization."

>Making a gesture with his hand, Damian then concludes:

"That's why they're getting so organized all of a sudden. Traction's had a year to fight me, so it makes sense that he'd know what to look out for, and how to instruct the Brigadiers to start fighting vigilantes. Even earlier today, it took me a bit longer than usual to take two of them down. They're getting better at this."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:37:44 No.2011

File: 1685741864841-0.jpg (27.67 KB, 358x600, Damian - 11.jpg)

File: 1685741864841-1.jpg (9.39 KB, 425x425, Manila Folders.jpg)

>>2010
>Then Damian takes out a folder from his jacket - tossing it onto Bella's desk. As he does so, he then says:

"I may regret saying this next part - but you're the only person I can turn to in order to help me with this."

>The folder has contents involving some valuable experimental R&D information. Complex gene recombination machine blueprints, codon readers and bio-molecular synthesis instructions are spread out across the pages.

"There's an underground group that's likely responsible for the humour substance that's getting onto the streets. They're the same ones responsible for all the other attempts at sabotage going on."

>Pointing at the folder and its contents, Damian says:

"I have more - but that's enough to prove my intentions here. I want to know if any of this is familiar to you, and if you know anything about how these plans got out into underground networks."

>Silent for another moment, he then states:

"…..I have more that I've gathered about the Crimson Tide - but I'm not saying anything until you're straight with me."

>Moving forward and placing his hands on the desk, Damian then looks Bella dead in the eyes behind his glasses as he says:

"…..Are we partners, or are you just using me like everyone else? Because if we're not? Then I have no reason to tell you anything else. If we are? Then maybe I can get the rest of the information for you."

>Thinking carefully about his next statement, he then says:

"…..And from Archeon, if need be."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:43:57 No.2012

File: 1685742237005.jpg (1.16 MB, 2067x2067, 9af8760de55a69be5dc4f14972….jpg)

>>2011
>Bella narrows her eyes at Damian as he talks.

"Eukaryon, you mean? I know no more than the name and what you know already."

>Bella flicks through the folder briefly.

"This counts as corporate espionage, you realize?"

>She slides the folder across the desk, back to Damian, tenting her fingers.

"As for the matter of partners or using, you requested partners, did you not?"

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 21:50:00 No.2013

File: 1685742600048-0.jpg (42.75 KB, 477x600, Damian - 10.jpg)

>>2012
>Damian narrows his eyes behind his glasses at Bella as he states:

"We're both vigilantes, so we're not exactly 'above ground' here either way. The research is from Chiral, though I don't know more about him than just the name. Not sure how much of this was used by Archeon for their genetics research - if at all."

>Silent, he then looks off to the side, stating:

"…..Never mind."

>Looking back at Bella, Damian then says:

"I mean it, Bella. Unless we can agree to cover each other's rears here, we're not partners. We're collateral to each other's impulses and self-interests if we're not partners. So unless we agree to have each other's backs here - it's too much of a risk to tell you anything else."

>Standing back from her desk and taking a few steps back, Damian then places one hand on his hip as he keeps the other hand at his side.

"Besides, I'd be more willing to get more information for you - as long as we can make a long term commitment here. For as much as you know, and believe me, I'm aware that you know a lot - there's still valuable information that Archeon has, that I can get you. Nothing too important, since only Aiden and the executive board would have access to that - but still more than enough valuable information to make this worth your time."

>Now walking forward again, Damian then holds out his hand to Bella, stating:

"I can get you information and technology inside of Archeon, and we can work together to take down the Crimson Tide. But I can only do that, if you decide to trust me, and commit to me as partners. Besides…"

>Looking away from Bella for a moment, he then says:

"…..I'm probably not gonna want to work at Archeon once the extent of our 'partnership' becomes clear to my mentor, anyways."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:00:02 No.2014

File: 1685743201893.png (1.1 MB, 848x1200, 01a42092bc541f56c18080a169….png)

>>2013
>Bella's eyes follow Damian's movements carefully, as if reading him like a book.

"What makes you think that I would just leave a pet to die?"

>Bella sighs, leaning back slightly.

"Partner or pet, I can assure you that, provided the consequences are not too damaging to me, you can trust me to watch your back."

>Bella nudges the folder closer to Damian.

"Consequences such as being found to be engaging in open corporate espionage, for example - humans are naturally risk-averse after all."

>Leaving the folder half over the edge of her desk, Bella then turns her attention to his outstretched hand.

"If you want to continue stealing folders, that is up to you, but I won't officially condone those actions. As for any actions where it may involve physical risk, you can trust me to 'watch your back', so long as it is within my capabilities."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:02:55 No.2015

File: 1685743375221.jpg (48.01 KB, 432x600, Damian - 12.jpg)

>>2014
>Damian rolls his eyes and scoffs.

"Please. Like anyone would take my side if you were charged with corporate malpractice and espionage. I'm just a lowly grad student - while you're Bella Blake. Arguably the most economically powerful woman in the world."

>Crossing his arms and looking away from Bella, he then states:

"How could I ever hope to compare with that?"

>He says, emotionless and robotic - but with emphasis on those specific words. He flicks his finger to adjust his glasses, without speaking another word.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:07:44 No.2016

File: 1685743664026.png (3.52 MB, 1514x2000, 656c7b91a730bc27be88334cde….png)

>>2015
"How droll."

>Bella nudges the folder slightly further, letting it fall off the edge of the desk.

"Still, you have your answer, do you not? I'm in no rush to leave you bleeding out in a backalley anytime soon."

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:13:43 No.2017

File: 1685744023168-0.jpeg (40.92 KB, 500x666, Damian - 19.jpeg)

>>2016
>Damian, without even looking at the folder, makes a gesture with his hand - shooting out a natural strand of incredibly tensile silk. As the natural adhesive connects with the folder - it begins seemingly retracting into his wrist, as he grabs the folder and places it inside of his jacket.

"The point was - I have no way of actually taking your assurances as facts. It'd be all too easy for both you and Archeon to pin the blame on 'an opportunistic graduate student too ambitious for his own good' as a means of performing damage control and PR management."

>Looking at Bella, he then says:

"Especially over something as serious as corporate espionage."

>Silent, he then states:

"Still. I'm willing to accept your commitment - regardless of how unsubstantiated in its resolution it actually is. Honestly, I don't really have a choice - especially since we're both somewhat compromising each other here."

>Making an exasperated gesture of resignation with his hand, Damian sighs and shakes his head, while closing his eyes briefly. Opening them, he then states:

"Either way, I'll see what I can get you on The Crimson Tide, outside of the resources that they had the Helixers and Brigadiers acquire. There's also the list of potential targets that Traction and the Helixers had - again as a show of good faith towards the Crimson Tide. Acquisition targets for ransom."

>Falling silent, he then says:

"….You can guess who was at the top of the list then? As well as why I came here as soon as I could?"

>Damian says, as he slowly adjusts his glasses.

>Suddenly, a large explosion occurs down at the base of the UP building - likely around the lobby area.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:23:48 No.2018

File: 1685744626871-0.jpg (1.94 MB, 5323x2200, Lobby.jpg)

File: 1685744626871-1.jpg (104.31 KB, 865x505, Explosion.jpg)

File: 1685744626871-2.png (308.12 KB, 350x446, Traction.png)

File: 1685744626871-3.jpg (65.53 KB, 802x997, Vulcan - 6.jpg)

File: 1685744626871-4.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

>>2017
>Location: UP Building - Lobby

>A massive conflagration of flames and heat ruptures the doors of the building - as two figures walk in. As the doors immediately melt away into chunks of molten metal - the two figures stand and take a moment to take in their surroundings.

"Hmm? What're you all fuckin' lookin' at huh? Got somethin' on my face?"

>Vulcan says mockingly, as he reaches a glowing magma finger to his rocky exterior. While doing so, the person beside him steps forward as he shouts:

"Get the fuck out of here! We're not here for any of you - just your boss."

>Traction then waves his hand, prompting the civilians and office workers in the building to rush out of the lobby through the other exists.

>As they do so, a Brigadier steps forward, aiming his gun at one of the retreating civilians.

"Big mistake."

>Traction then immediately punches the Brigadier in the gut, causing him to keel over in pain - shouting.

"What did I just say, dumbass? We're not here for them. We're here for her."

>Flicking a small candle flame around in the air with his molten finger, Vulcan then says:

"Oh yeah, right. The Queen Bitch. Acts like she's never had a di-"

>Traction glares at Vulcan, who mutters to himself as they then begin walking forward. As Traction and Vulcan are accompanied by a dozen or so Brigadiers with guns - they then begin sweeping the bottom floor of the lobby.

Event 06/02/23 (Fri) 22:30:55 No.2019

File: 1685745054428-0.jpg (824.74 KB, 1153x709, CEO Office.jpg)

File: 1685745054428-1.png (281.38 KB, 1275x952, Damian.png)

File: 1685745054428-2.jpg (40.73 KB, 600x600, Phone - 6.jpg)

File: 1685745054428-3.jpg (27.21 KB, 640x360, Gear Watch - 2.jpg)

>>2018
>Location: UP - CEO Office

>Looking at the live feed of the situation on his phone - Damian realizes that news choppers are already on the scene, filming the incident.

>Muttering under his breath, he then says out loud:

"….They're here sooner than I expected. I overheard Traction planning an attack on you for ransom - scheduled for today's date."

>Looking up at Bella, he then continues saying:

"I didn't want to tell you, for concern about tipping them off that they're being watched. I hoped I could get you out of here before that happened but…"

>Sighing, Damian then turns to Bella and states:

"I'll handle this. I've wiped the floor with them before - I was just hoping that I could spare your building any further damage."

>Damian then says:

"My offer's still available however. Even though we're both blackmailing each other with the knowledge of our secret identities - I'm still willing to get some classified Archeon information for you."

>Raising up a hand, he then states:

"You've got a safe room here, right? MRD should already be on their way. Stay here in that room until either I stop the Helixers and Brigadiers - or until the MRD arrive and do that job for me instead. I'm going to go handle them now while I'm still here. Wish me luck."

>Damian then turns towards the door, looking down at the futuristic watch with blood red circuitry all over it. He then places his hand on the side of the crown dial, beginning to interface with it…..

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 16:53:37 No.2020

File: 1685811217208.jpg (2.26 MB, 1950x2800, 6be3f4aa9e963e58386dda67d7….jpg)

>>2019
"Off you go then. . ."

>Bella waves Damian off.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure to activate my safe room system, so you can run off to be a knight in shining armor."

>As soon as Damian is out of the door, it slams shut, and a second sound indicates that an additional layer of security has activated within the room.

>In her office turned safe room, Bella sighs, standing up.

"Woefully bad at lying, and at detecting lies too. . ."

>Bella presses a button her desk, activating a system.

"Send the latest Apex capsule up to my office."

>The system beeps in response, and deep within the bowels of the building, something is released, heading up through a hidden structure in the building towards the top at a rapid pace. . .

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 20:39:05 No.2021

File: 1685824744144-0.jpg (1.94 MB, 5323x2200, Lobby.jpg)

File: 1685824744144-1.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685824744144-2.png (308.12 KB, 350x446, Traction.png)

File: 1685824744144-3.png (452.25 KB, 841x1190, Vulcan.png)

File: 1685824744144-4.jpg (508.33 KB, 1168x630, Brigadiers - 2.jpg)

>>2020
>As the Brigadiers continue sweeping the floors, slowly rising up the skyscraper, they give a situation report to Traction and Vulcan.

"Nobody's here. Somehow they all got out."

>Blinking with his fire slots for eyes, Vulcan then sneers.

"The fuck you mean 'they all got out' huh?"

>Narrowing his eyes behind his hood, the Brigadier states:

"Just what I 'said', candle wick."

>Vulcan then flares up with a plume of flame appearing on their right arm.

"Will you knock it off?! We don't have time for this shit! Move!"

>Traction shouts, causing Vulcan and the Brigadier to stop looking at each other. Instead, they then quickly begin moving further and further up the skyscraper's floors. As they continue checking doors, offices and break room areas, they find more and more of the building empty.

>Silent for a moment, Traction then holds a hand up as he says:

"Hold on! I hear something."

>The sensation and the vibration is faint, but Traction can hear something quickly rocketing up the building. Figuring that it's MRD hovercraft quickly moving up the floors to reach them, he then shouts:

"Move! Double time! Or the boss is gonna have our asses for this!"

>The Brigadiers and Vulcan nod - as they continue running through the rooms of each individual floor - sweeping them rapidly for their target.

"Come on out, red! Make this easier for us, and maybe we'll go soft on you."

>One of the Brigadiers in the back then laughs as he says:

"I dunno. I like being rough with redheads."

>Suddenly, a loud rumbling can be heard - much closer by. The rumbling appears to be a soft set of pulsating sounds, oscillating in frequency and speed - getting faster and more rapid in their cadence as they get closer.

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 20:44:55 No.2022

File: 1685825094146-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685825094146-1.png (656.17 KB, 598x858, Traction - 6.png)

File: 1685825094146-2.jpg (518.69 KB, 1920x2267, Vulcan - 2.jpg)

File: 1685825094146-3.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

File: 1685825094146-4.png (59.61 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 20.png)

>>2021
>Blinking, one of the Brigadiers then notices a series of small marbles that seemingly appeared from nowhere. Curious, the Brigadier then kneels down to reach for one of the marbles - stating:

"Oh neat! Souvenir! Bet I could make a quick buck with this stuff."

>Looking over, Traction then immediately realizes what the Brigadier is reaching for - immediately shouting:

"No you fucking idiot! Get away from that! NOW!"

>The Brigadier then looks at Traction, confused. Before the Brigadier can respond, the marbles immediately flip open small holes on their surfaces - revealing a bright green gas that begins pouring through into the room.

"What the fu-"

>The Brigadiers then begin rapidly coughing, moving around and desperately trying to leave the immediate area.

>Seemingly unaffected, Traction mutters from underneath his helmet:

"Knockout gas. Potent variation too. Likely industrial grade chemicals. Which means…"

>Turning towards Vulcan, who is also seemingly unaffected by the contents of the gas, Traction then states:

"It's Mosaic. Nobody else in the city has tech like that on hand. Move out and find him. Now."

>Vulcan nods and starts walking forward - looking around and aiming a pair of fingers in a finger gun shape, aiming to blast the masked vigilante on sight.

"Come on out you dickhead. Let me repay you for the last time…."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 20:52:17 No.2023

File: 1685825536523-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685825536523-1.png (308.12 KB, 350x446, Traction.png)

File: 1685825536523-2.jpg (629.07 KB, 700x989, Mundas - 8.jpg)

File: 1685825536523-3.jpg (33.81 KB, 425x600, Splice - 3.jpg)

File: 1685825536523-4.jpg (56.02 KB, 835x1150, Weathervane - 5.jpg)

>>2022
>Traction then presses a button to his helmet, starting a radio frequency call.

"Mundas. Splice. Weathervane. Get the fuck over here, now. We're compromised."

>After sending that message, he then tries again with another reminder:

"Also, remember to tell Ordinance and Megido that you're leaving-"

>Realizing that he's only hearing static interference now, Traction curses to himself as he ends the radio transmission.

{"Jammed. Yeah it's definitely Mosaic alright. Probably bugged the whole building at this point. But how the fuck did he know that we're here? Unless."}

>Feeling his face darken behind his helmet, Traction then mutters to himself:

"…..Mole. Shit."

>Just then, a nearby window smashes open - as the forms of three people appear before them. A tall, athletic woman with snow white hair - a lean man with silver hair and a relatively well built woman with two tone pink and white hair.

>Nodding at them as they arrive, Traction then says:

"Took you long enough. Mosaic's here. Split up and flank him from all sides. I know he's tough, but he's gonna have a hard time with all four of us at least."

>Pointing behind him at the dispersed gas - he then states:

"Watch out for traps. He's already taken out the contingent of Brigadiers that Vulcan and I brought with us. Dude's not playing around anymore."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 20:58:38 No.2024

File: 1685825917923-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685825917923-1.png (299.94 KB, 640x480, Vulcan - 5.png)

File: 1685825917923-2.jpg (88.69 KB, 1920x1080, Fire Blast - 3.jpg)

File: 1685825917923-3.jpg (252.31 KB, 1024x683, Water - 4.jpg)

File: 1685825917923-4.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

>>2023
>As Vulcan continues walking through the upper floors of the building - a few flights ahead of the remaining Helixers, he continues pointing his finger gun in all directions.

"Come out already asshole! I can't wait to light you up like a fucking Christmas tree-"

>Suddenly, the room goes bright with a blinding light - causing Vulcan to stumble backwards. Now confused and stammering, he then states:

"W-What the fuck?!?! What was that-"

>Before he can react, a silk line then grabs his leg and yanks it up into the air - slamming him into the ceiling.

"GYAH!"

>Then, as he's slammed down onto the ground with the same amount of force, Vulcan feels the air leave his body as he exhales:

"SHIT!"

>Barely getting his coordination back, Vulcan spins up, looking around as he states:

"Where the fuck are you, dickhead?! Show yourself!!"

>There's silence for another moment, as Vulcan looks on in annoyance.

"I said…..GET THE FUCK OUT HERE!!!!!"

>Vulcan then begins immolating rapidly - generating more heat and fire - enough to finally trigger the fire alarm.

"What the-"

>Then, as the ceiling immediately begins triggering the fire alarm responses - large sprays of water begin raining down in the room, dousing Vulcan's flame partially.

"You know you're not really good at this - honestly."

>Vulcan then spins around, to see the upside down form of Arachnid - hanging from a yo-yo position in the air with a silk strand.

"Hey. Miss me, s'mores?"

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:05:39 No.2025

File: 1685826338774-0.jpg (344.06 KB, 1920x1080, Vulcan - 8.jpg)

File: 1685826338774-1.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685826338774-2.png (43.53 KB, 266x200, Gadget - 23.png)

File: 1685826338774-3.jpg (94.5 KB, 1917x875, Webbing.jpg)

>>2024
>Enraged, Vulcan immediately begins lobbing fire balls at Arachnid - watching as he effortlessly weaves through the blasts. Recognizing this - Vulcan then places his hands together to charge up a much larger fireball attack - launching a blast as wide as the hallway at him.

"Well, at least you're using your brain now!"

>Positioning himself perfectly, Arachnid casually spins a silk line up into the air - connecting with the grate of a vent. As he casually yanks himself up into the air with superhuman strength - he quickly pushes through the vent and begins quickly crawling through the ventilation system.

"I'll get back to you candle wick. Don't worry. Just got some bigger fish to fry."

>Before Vulcan can respond, he then notices a beeping noise on the ground. Looking down - he sees another small marble. This device then activates - blasting open with a large amount of silk adhesive immediately sticking to his body. As Vulcan tries to move, he then realizes that the adhesive material isn't burning. Confused, he begins shouting as the material continues to form around him rapidly - stating:

"What the fuck did you hit me with?!?! What is this stuff?!?!"

>Still crawling through the vents, Arachnid then speaks to him from above.

"Nomex infused silk. Custom made for you, and any walking lighters like you. Sure, you can probably burn through it eventually, but you'll be knocked out by oxygen deprivation by the time that you do. Have fun!"

>Arachnid's hands and feet then stop emanating from above the ceiling - signaling that he's left the floor.

>Irritated, Vulcan then screams:

"I'm gonna blast you into fucking charred bits one day, silk head! Bet on that!"

>Before he can continue shouting, Vulcan's face is then covered by the silk material - causing him to be restrained in a prison of fire resistant material. No longer able to speak, Vulcan is then entirely silent at that point, unable to do anything else.

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:12:58 No.2026

File: 1685826777549-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685826777549-1.jpg (63.9 KB, 800x1010, Mundas - 3.jpg)

File: 1685826777549-2.jpg (38.77 KB, 400x367, Weathervane - 8.jpg)

File: 1685826777549-3.jpg (155.6 KB, 548x732, Splice - 4.jpg)

File: 1685826777549-4.jpg (165.29 KB, 454x1024, Traction - 2.jpg)

>>2025
>Mundas then continues walking through the large hallways of the business floors - keeping an eye out for anything strange. As she does so, she then thinks:

{"It's quiet here. Way too quiet…."}

>On another part of the floor, Weathervane scowls as she finishes checking the last door in the hallway. Irritated, she makes her position on the search known as she shouts:

"Why can't these fuckers just be straight with us? No bullshit hide and seek crap. Just a one on one fight."

>Groaning, she then marches away from the hallway - intersecting the hallway where Splice is doing some searching of his own. As Weathervane approaches Splice, she then says:

"Just skip through time until he gets his ass out here, Splice. Come on. Get on with it."

>Splice narrows his eyes at Weathervane as he says:

"It's not that simple. I'm not speeding anything up from my perspective - I'm just cutting out the immediate time that we would otherwise be experiencing-"

>Weathervane cuts him off, annoyed.

"Yeah, don't care. If we can't find Mosaic, and capture this Blake bitch - then we're fucked. Keep searching!"

>Weathervane then brushes past Splice, who looks stunned at her blunt response, and then keeps going.

"…….Alright then?"

>Traction then kneels down - slowly disarming another smoke bomb trap set for them.

{"Yeah, there's no mistaking it. Mosaic was here waiting for us. Meaning he probably knew we were coming - somehow."}

>Thinking for a moment, he then sighs and stands back up, shouting to his team.

"Eyes up, Helixers! Mosaic's in here somewhere! Spread out and flank to flush him out! We've got a better chance working together as a team!"

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:21:20 No.2027

File: 1685827279974-0.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685827279974-1.png (53.43 KB, 266x199, Gadget - 16.png)

File: 1685827279974-2.jpg (236.26 KB, 842x1920, Phone Terminal.jpg)

File: 1685827279974-3.jpg (218.68 KB, 1920x1080, Nanite.jpg)

File: 1685827279974-4.png (1.02 MB, 1110x1912, Mundas - 2.png)

>>2026
>Unbeknownst to all of them, a cloaked and camouflaged figure is sitting on the ceiling of that very floor.

{"Hmm. They still haven't detected me yet. Meaning Traction's not using an infrared scan. Amateurish."}

>Looking at his jacket, Arachnid then reaches into it, fishing for something.

{"Aha! There it is!"}

>Taking out the phone terminal that controls the Phi Gear that he's using, Arachnid then begins dialing a specific sequence into its dialing pad.

{"7…3….0…"}

>As the phone appears invisible to the naked eye - Arachnid can still see it and its UI contents with his visor's E.M. spectrum vision. Seeing the words on the screen, he then reads them carefully.

["ASSIMILATION MODE: ACTIVATED"]

>Arachnid then puts the phone terminal away as he then looks down below - finding himself directly above Mundas.

>Holding out his hand, he then aims his fingers at the back of Mundas's neck - thinking:

{"Here goes nothing."}

>Arachnid then fires 5 nanoscopic darts from his fingers - watching as they burrow themselves into Mundas's skin with an immense amount of speed and precision.

>Barely noticing anything, Mundas looks around - as her gut instinct tells her that something is wrong.

{"What…."}

>Shaking it off, Mundas then mutters to herself as she continues walking back towards the others in the area.

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:32:45 No.2028

File: 1685827964626-0.jpg (157.37 KB, 1280x720, Mundas - 7.jpg)

File: 1685827964626-1.png (308.12 KB, 350x446, Traction.png)

File: 1685827964626-2.jpg (56.49 KB, 455x810, Weathervane.jpg)

File: 1685827964626-3.jpg (33.81 KB, 425x600, Splice - 3.jpg)

>>2027
>Mundas then gets back to the others as she then says:

"Did another sweep. Didn't find anything out of the ordinary. Mosaic ain't here. Neither's the Blake chick."

>Sighing, Traction places a hand to his helmet in frustration. Shaking his head, he mutters:

"No No No…..This is all going wrong. We were supposed to get in, block off any exit routes for the target and the rest of the executive suite - then box them in."

>Looking back at his team, Traction then states:

"The plan's gone wrong. We need to improvise."

>Turning to Mundas, Traction then says:

"Go get Vulcan, we'll stick together and try and find the jamming the device that Mosaic's set up."

>Nodding, Mundas then begins walking towards the stairs - leading up to the next few floors.

>Turning his back towards Splice and Weathervane, Traction then says:

"Cover me. We're getting out of here."

>Confused, Weathervane then says:

"Are you mental? We need to get the woman and drag her ass back to the boss. You know what happens if we fail, right?"

>Traction, looking annoyed, states:

"….In case you haven't noticed, Mosaic's already here. Meaning he knew we were coming - and was likely tipped off by someone inside of the organization."

>Eyes widening, Weathervane begins looking back and forth between Traction and Splice, before muttering:

"…..Shit. We've been set up."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:33:41 No.2029

File: 1685828020742-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685828020742-1.jpg (165.29 KB, 454x1024, Traction - 2.jpg)

File: 1685828020742-2.jpg (38.77 KB, 400x367, Weathervane - 8.jpg)

File: 1685828020742-3.jpg (84.49 KB, 517x600, Splice - 6.jpg)

>>2028
>Nodding, Traction says:

"Someone probably fed Mosaic the information, specifically to get rid of us - since they knew we'd have no chance against him."

>Looking around, Traction then crushes the radio communication device in his hand, muttering:

"…..Fuck! We've been used, again! I thought this was the last fucking time…."

>Splice then turns to Traction, stating:

"What do we do then? We can't go back to the boss empty handed."

>Shaking his head, Traction says:

"We won't. Mosaic's likely already gotten the woman out of here before we arrived, so we're shit out of options. Our best bet is to just tell him the truth, and find evidence here that can prove that Mosaic knew we were coming."

>Nodding, Splice and Weathervane then look around for a moment, before Weathervane asks Traction:

"…..So what about Mundas? We're just sending her off to get captured by Mosaic?"

>Traction turns around back to the flight of stairs behind them, before turning his head back towards the front of his body. Now moving forward with Weathervane and Splice both walking behind him, he says:

"She's a distraction to buy us enough time to get the hell out of here. Both she and Vulcan should be enough to keep Mosaic busy for now - especially Mundas with her powers. It was either them getting captured, or all of us."

>Looking at Weathervane for a moment, Traction then says:

"I made the only logical call there."

>Weathervane gives Traction a pained look, before closing her eyes and nodding. Sighing, she then says:

"Fine. Let's just get the fuck out of here then - now."

>Traction nods as they all then proceed to run towards the end of the hallway - down the lowest flight of stairs as well.

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:39:45 No.2030

File: 1685828384802-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685828384802-1.jpg (518.69 KB, 1920x2267, Vulcan - 2.jpg)

File: 1685828384802-2.jpg (83.37 KB, 1280x720, Foam.jpg)

File: 1685828384802-3.jpg (267.41 KB, 1000x805, Blood.jpg)

File: 1685828384802-4.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

>>2029
>As Mundas reaches the upper floors of the building, she then walks into the hallway, shouting out for Vulcan.

"Hey! Flame head! Where the fuck are you-"

>Then, right as Mundas turns the corner, she sees it.

"….Son of a bitch…."

>Mundas then watches, staring aghast, as she sees Vulcan's petrified and encased body standing in place. An eerily silence fills the hallway, as Mundas's heart rate begins to increase rapidly.

{"He's been fucking with us the entire time. Fuck….He's watching us!"}

>The realization hits Mundas like a truck, causing a wave of nervousness and anxiety to course through her body. As she begins feeling her parasympathetic nervous system flaring up - she then begins rapidly thinking to herself.

{"OK. OK. OK. No big deal. Just stop time and take steps out of here and back to the lower levels-"}

>Then, Mundas can feel a searing pain in the back of her neck. Screaming, she then swats the back of her neck, as she feels something bubbling to the surface.

"GYAH! FUCK!"

>Swatting the back of her neck a few more times, she then looks back at her own hand - seeing her eyes widen in horror.

{"Blood?! My blood?! What the hell happened to me?! Did I get stung by a bee or something-"}

>The realization then hits Mundas, as she remembers the gut feeling she had, a few minutes ago.

{"Oh…Oh no…He was there the whole time! Shit! I need to warn the others now!"}

>As she turns to leave - Mundas then finds herself face to face with Arachnid - who holds out a hand in front of her.

"Boo."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:45:11 No.2031

File: 1685828710402-0.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685828710402-1.png (59.61 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 20.png)

File: 1685828710402-2.png (1.13 MB, 1428x1801, Mundas.png)

File: 1685828710402-3.gif (999.38 KB, 500x250, Punch - 2.gif)

File: 1685828710402-4.jpg (267.41 KB, 1000x805, Blood.jpg)

>>2030
>Before she can react, Arachnid disperses a large cloud of blue gas in front of her - which she instinctively inhales.

"SHIT!"

>Cursing to herself, she then stumbles backwards as rage begins to flare up in her mind. Her heart continues racing, but not out of fear - instead, now driven by anger for her newly revealed opponent.

"You! It was never Mosaic! It was his fucking runt of a sidekick!"

>Placing his hands on his hips, Arachnid then says:

"For as much as that's supposed to be a diss - you guys seem awfully incompetent if a 'runt' like me can take you down."

>Grimacing, Mundas then grinds her teeth in anger, as she reflexively moves to stop time. As she then rushes at Arachnid - she tackles him to the floor, beginning to punch at him with increased strength.

"Take that! You little shit!"

>As she continues punching Arachnid in the face, parts of his helmet begin to break and shatter - as she starts punching his face. Blood begins to squirt and gush everywhere as huge plumes of blood spurt onto the walls beside her.

"…..That's for all of the mockery and tricks! You fucking asshole! Just fucking die already!"

>As she finishes, Mundas then pants heavily as she tosses aside the bloodied and beaten body of Arachnid. Muttering to herself, she then says:

"…..At least…..you're…..dead……now…."

>Mundas then goes silent for a few seconds - with nothing filling the room and the hallways, until a voice calls out.

"So that's what you saw? Interesting."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 21:51:00 No.2032

File: 1685829059984-0.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1685829059984-1.png (91.14 KB, 312x233, Pod.png)

File: 1685829059984-2.jpg (94.5 KB, 1917x875, Webbing.jpg)

File: 1685829059984-3.jpg (83.37 KB, 1280x720, Foam.jpg)

File: 1685829059984-4.jpg (157.37 KB, 1280x720, Mundas - 7.jpg)

>>2031
>Mundas then spins around, utterly confused at the voice that she's hearing.

"What the-"

>Before she can react, a series of large adhesive silk globs are dispersed at her, moving at high speeds. She's then stuck to the wall at the end of the hallway, unable to move.

"Ngghh!!!! How! How the fuck are you still alive?!?!"

>Arachnid then walks towards her, holding a set of futuristic metallic spheres in his hand. The spheres have red circuitry running through them as they hover in his hand.

"I have you to thank for that. Or your power, rather."

>Stunned, Mundas blinks for a moment, before saying:

"…..I stopped time to pounce on you! There's no way you could've reacted to that!"

>Arachnid nods, stating:

"If I didn't activate your power in kind, sure. But I did."

>Still confused, Mundas then blurts out:

"What the fuck are you talking about?!"

>Arachnid points to the back of her head, stating:

"Didn't you feel a pinch on your shoulder? Just a little bit?"

>The color then begins to drain from Mundas's face as she slowly looks behind her back, trying to see the neck wound she's received.

"Wait….Then that means…."

>As her mind flashes to only a few seconds earlier, Mundas remembers the pain she felt in the back of her neck - and the blood she felt from it.

"…You…did something to me, didn't you?!?!"

>Getting more terrified, fear begins to seep through her voice as she stammers a response.

"Y-You messed with my b-body didn't you? Fucking pervert!"

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 22:00:51 No.2033

File: 1685829650625-0.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685829650625-1.jpg (83.37 KB, 1280x720, Foam.jpg)

File: 1685829650625-2.png (1.13 MB, 1428x1801, Mundas.png)

>>2032
>Shaking his head and sighing, Arachnid then says:

"Look lady. You're hot and all, but I'm not that kind of guy."

>Feeling flustered, Mundas feels her body turn red as she then stammers:

"T-That's not what I meant!"

>Tapping the side of his helmet, Arachnid then explains:

"I hit you with a hallucinogenic - fast acting too, given the enzymes that I added to the solution."

>Pointing at the woman, he then continues to elaborate:

"As for how I stopped time? The suit."

>Arachnid gestures to the advanced suit that he's wearing.

"Assimilation Mode lets me grab cells from a target's body, usually by burrowing into their skin with nanite darts. The darts then release nanite capsules that function like cytotoxic T-Cells. Phagocytosis of cells, then capturing them and ejecting them out as pods."

>Arachnid gestures with his other hand - still holding the hovering pod spheres above his gloved hand.

"Then the system analyzed your Meta-Gene and reproduced it. Granted, I can only do this like….once an hour. Replicating Meta-Human powers takes a lot out of the suit, and I'm not really sure it was designed for that either so…."

>As the pods shrink into small components on Arachnid's glove, he then tells Mundas.

"You get one chance. Turn yourself in, and you get protection from the MRD. I know you're not really happy about the whole 'working with the Crimson Tide' part - and your leader basically left you for dead as bait to draw me out. So I'm not sure they really care about you that much either."

>Mundas narrows her eyes and looks away - staring off into the distance of the hallway as she says:

"…..I'll admit. I only did it for the money, and to avoid the MRD. I ain't the 'takin' over the city' type. Just wanna get paid."

>Arachnid then turns his attention to Mundas, stating:

"…..Then why not get paid doing the right thing? Stopping Meta-Human criminals instead of helping them?"

>Arachnid then gives Mundas a few seconds to think the offer over.

"What about him?"

>Nodding over at Vulcan in the distance, Arachnid then says:

"He's already knocked out - and both me and my boss gave him multiple chances to turn over a new leaf. He's stubborn like that - so he's obviously not interested."

>Arachnid then points at Mundas, stating:

"….'You' though? I think you're smarter than that."

>Mundas is silent for another moment - thinking carefully about her decision. She then looks up at Arachnid and says:

"….Alright. I'm in. As long as I can get the fuck away from these crazy lunatics - I'll turn myself in and help the MRD. Turn over a new leaf, as you said."

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 22:07:38 No.2034

File: 1685830057290-0.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685830057290-1.png (80.38 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 5.png)

File: 1685830057290-2.png (1.02 MB, 1110x1912, Mundas - 2.png)

File: 1685830057290-3.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685830057290-4.jpg (101.51 KB, 500x375, Aurora - 8.jpg)

>>2033
>Nodding, Arachnid then says:

"Good. Because I was going to do this anyways."

>Blinking to herself, Mundas narrows her eyes as she states:

"….Do what-"

>Suddenly, a large black cable blasts down from above, grabbing Mundas by her chest as it begins dragging her up through the roofs.

"H-HEY!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?! GYAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!"

>Arachnid casually swings up through the destroyed floors of the building as he says:

"Getting you out of here in a way that gives you plausible deniability. Looks better if you don't just come with me on your own, right?"

>Still screaming, Mundas then says:

"AT LEAST TELL ME FIRST YOU IDIOT! AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!"

>Mundas is then blasted up towards the roof of the skyscraper - still being raised up into the air. Shocked at the speed and precision of the grappling cable, she then looks up - seeing a large hovercraft hovering in the air. The source of the grappling cable is a sleek, black futuristic looking vehicle.

>In awe of the machine's design and clear horsepower, she then thinks to herself:

{"That looks nothing like the MRD's hovercrafts. This looks way more advanced. Damn….This kid really is geared out."}

>As the Aurora hovercraft then drags Mundas into the passenger seat - she's immediately placed into a chair with restraints. Finding herself unable to destroy the restraints, despite her superhuman strength - she then thinks to herself:

{"Dampeners. The guy's got a fucking portable dampener in here too? Holy shit…..How preparaed is this kid?!"}

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 22:14:41 No.2035

File: 1685830480982-0.jpg (17.48 KB, 654x368, Aurora - 10.jpg)

File: 1685830480982-1.jpg (111.37 KB, 736x1064, Aurora - 7.jpg)

File: 1685830480982-2.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

File: 1685830480982-3.jpg (629.07 KB, 700x989, Mundas - 8.jpg)

File: 1685830480982-4.jpg (49.7 KB, 852x480, Hologram Earth Map.jpg)

>>2034
>Landing on the underside of his vehicle, Arachnid then flips into the driver's area from the lower hatch.

>As he enters the driver's seat, he immediately places his hands on the controls - watching as glowing red circuitry extends from his hands towards the controls. Now establishing the synaptic controls, he begins typing on the keyboard interfaces before him - bringing up information.

"Let's see here…..Nearest MRD station is……."

>Arachnid then watches as the hologram pop-up display then zeroes in on a 3D map of Sanctuary City - placing a bright red glowing dot on a specific area, about a mile away from the Aurora's current location.

"There. The precinct off of Johnson street and Danvers avenue."

>From the back seat, Mundas looks somewhat annoyed as she then shouts:

"Are you just gonna leave me here like this?!"

>Arachnid thinks for a moment, before saying:

"Yeah basically. I'll drop you off with a note for the MRD for being a good turncoat."

>Before Mundas can respond, Arachnid jettisons another burst of gas from his gloved hand - this time knocking her out cold.

>Now hovering above the UP building in the Aurora, Arachnid then uses the external power of the vehicle to give a sonar pulse of the entire building.

>As he does so, he notices the four figures down below, as expected. However, he then also notices some environmental disturbances.

>They're not caused by a human being, or a humanoid figure - but the movement of objects around the space confirms Arachnid's suspicions.

>Muttering under his breath, Arachnid's digital lenses on his helmet narrow as he thinks to himself:

{"Bella, you absolute shameless, lying snake."}

Event 06/03/23 (Sat) 22:22:17 No.2036

File: 1685830936967-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1685830936967-1.jpg (165.29 KB, 454x1024, Traction - 2.jpg)

File: 1685830936967-2.jpg (56.49 KB, 455x810, Weathervane.jpg)

File: 1685830936967-3.jpg (33.81 KB, 425x600, Splice - 3.jpg)

>>2035
>Reaching the lower levels of the building, Traction then looks behind him at Weathervane and Splice - stating:

"Alright. Home stretch. Let's get the fuck out of here before the MRD arrives. We're gonna have to sweep around for evidence, anything that can prove that Mosaic knew we were coming - and that someone was setting us up."

>Nodding, Weathervane then says:

"Want me to create a thunderstorm? I'm not as skilled indoors, but I can still make us a diversion."

>Traction gives confirmation with a hand signal, as he points towards Splice, stating:

"Splice, do some temporal recon and look into the future if you can. You've got a probability model of perception - so use that to see if there are any surprises in our way."

>Hesitating for a moment, Traction then says:

"I know your power can't account for enemies that you haven't encountered before - but you've fought Mosaic. At the very least, he should be immediately showing up in your predictions. Let us know what you see within the next 10 seconds, and keep reusing your power to look out for threats, while Weathervane provides us cover with a thunderstorm to escape."

>Traction turns back to Weathervane, stating:

"The lobby is right below us. When you're ready, I'll give the signal for you to make the thunderstorm, and Splice can give us a probabilistic movement strategy and pathway out of here now."

>Weathervane nods, as she then looks off to the side, saying:

"…..I still don't like the fact that we abandoned Mundas. Yeah, she didn't want to do this - but that doesn't mean we had to leave her out to get captured."

>Shaking his head, Traction said:

"She was the one most likely to turn on us because her heart wasn't in it. Whether she likes it or not, she's a liability - and you will too if your sentimentality costs us an exit window here."

>Weathervane shoots Traction a look, glaring at him with anger in her eyes.

"Hey. Guys. Guys. Come on, let's focus. We need to get out of here. Now."

>Both Traction and Weathervane look at Splice, and nod with tired expressions on their faces.

"Yeah, let's focus on getting the hell out of here."

>Weathervane states.

"Alright then. Remember. Execution has to be perfect here for us to succeed. Let's not waste that opportunity now either."

>Traction says, preparing his team for their plan of escape from the UP building.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:12:56 No.2037

File: 1685902376738.jpg (72.33 KB, 1920x1080, 1670174367_preview_2019030….jpg)

>>2036
"That plan wont work. . ."

>A mechanised voice calls out as the room suddenly plunges into darkness, with thuds all around indicating that the room has locked itself down.

"But your effort is admirable."

>The voice calls out from a different part of the room, from within the artificial darkness created by shutting out the outside world.

"I'm guessing that explains you in general though, all effort, no intelligence, after all, why else would you attack such a highly secure building without guaranteeing that it couldn't be used against you by someone who got themselves access?"

>The voice cuts off for a second, being followed by mocking laughter from several directions, the sound distorted by the filter it's being run through.

"I'm supposed to offer you a chance to surrender first, or else my partner will be annoyed, so I'll give you 20 seconds. . ."

>Several low level lights light up around the edges of the room, giving the group a small amount of visibility of each other.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:19:23 No.2038

File: 1685902763760-0.jpg (165.29 KB, 454x1024, Traction - 2.jpg)

File: 1685902763760-1.jpg (38.77 KB, 400x367, Weathervane - 8.jpg)

File: 1685902763760-2.jpg (55.45 KB, 425x600, Splice - 2.jpg)

>>2037
>Traction looks around, thinking to himself for a moment:

{"So she's got some hired gun on retainer? Figures."}

>He then looks around at Weathervane and Splice, who are each trembling in fear. Rolling his eyes behind his mask, he thinks to himself:

{"Jesus, you both need thicker skin. Not literally but….Or wait maybe actually you do."}

>Out loud, he then says:

"I'm guessing your friend is the no-killing type? If so, what are you gonna hit us with? Tranqs or steel?"

>Traction then motions for Weathervane and Splice to get close to them - feeling their trembling and nervousness behind him.

"Stay close."

>Traction then states:

"And how are we supposed to trust that you're the type to keep your word? You'd have blasted us to kingdom come already if it weren't for your partner, ain't that right?"

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:23:47 No.2039

File: 1685903027185.jpg (72.33 KB, 1920x1080, 1670174367_preview_2019030….jpg)

>>2038
"You tell me, Jackie."

>The voice echoes around, repeating the name.

"Trust goes both ways, if I have no need to act, I won't act, but. . ."

>The lights flicker for a moment.

"If it comes down to keeping my word or making sure you won't escape, well. . ."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:27:57 No.2040

File: 1685903277505-0.png (308.12 KB, 350x446, Traction.png)

File: 1685903277505-1.jpg (56.49 KB, 455x810, Weathervane.jpg)

File: 1685903277505-2.jpg (84.49 KB, 517x600, Splice - 6.jpg)

>>2039
>As Traction's mechanical lenses narrow on his mask, he then snarls back:

"….Let them go first. MRD's probably on their way here, and frankly? It'll be better for them to leave, than to learn what the Crimson Tide are gonna do to them if they fail."

>Pointing up at nothing in particular, but knowing that the figure can hear him, he then continues to speak:

"As for you? If you want to try and kill me? Go right ahead. If your partner's who I think he is - ask him how well bullets and explosive fire work on me. Or poison gas. Or anything with even a remote amount of kinetic energy. I absorb it all."

>Moving his hand up behind Weathervane and Splice, to instinctively protect them - he then says:

"I'll stay here. But you let them go. The only reason I'm staying is because of what I said. You couldn't kill me even if you tried - and I'll be honest. I've got no delusions of putting up a fight myself. I just don't want my crew hurt."

>Traction then remains standing firm - not moving an inch.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:36:31 No.2041

File: 1685903791671.jpg (8.14 KB, 540x360, 360_F_316888944_xYhGMT5Zzh….jpg)

>>2040
>The mocking laughter returns.

"And you believe that they'll be safe from them in prison? I underestimated your stupidity, Jackie."

>One of the panels clicks slightly, opening a way for Weathervane and Splice.

"You'll find cuffs in the next room, feel free to put them on yourself. . ."

>The panel hisses slightly to indicate it's ready to be moved aside.

"No guarantees on your safety if you try to run, you two."

>The lights all turn off, leaving only an outline of light around the panel.

"Oh, and I'm well aware of your little power, but all men can die, Jackie, and trust me, I'm very. . ."

>The voice deepens itself.

"Knowledgeable."

"Out of curiosity, though, how does it feel to be inside a dampening field? I've never experienced it myself."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:43:42 No.2042

File: 1685904221875-0.jpg (165.29 KB, 454x1024, Traction - 2.jpg)

File: 1685904221875-1.jpg (38.77 KB, 400x367, Weathervane - 8.jpg)

File: 1685904221875-2.jpg (55.45 KB, 425x600, Splice - 2.jpg)

>>2041
>Traction looks back at the two Helixers and nods, before turning his attention back to his front as he states:

"Like you're just waiting for an excuse to gut me like a fish."

>As Weathervane and Splice both turn towards the faintly-illuminated panel, Weathervane moves to press it - still trembling nervously, almost paralyzed by fear.

>At that same moment, Traction states:

"Hey Mosaic! If it's either you or that silkheaded dweeb you call a sidekick listening? Just know. If I'm wasted by this prick? Then that's on you!"

>Shaking his head for a moment, he then says:

"And if I come back a third time? Then your mercenary friend's living on borrowed time."

>Turning his attention to the disembodied voice from above, Traction then says:

"So kill me then, shithead! What are you waiting for? Shut me up like the tough guy you are!"

>Weathervane and Splice then look at each other - somewhat agitated and fearful, with their fear slowly turning to panic as they wait for the mechanized panel to react.

>Traction then continues speaking:

"What? Got cold feet? I've already died once, asshole! SO KILL ME AGAIN!!!!!"

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 18:53:18 No.2043

File: 1685904798577-0.jpg (21.66 KB, 640x360, 360_F_328671440_O61Nci0kcy….jpg)

File: 1685904798577-1.jpg (36.95 KB, 640x320, handcuffs.jpg)

>>2042
>The panel reacts, opening a door into a plane white room, with three sets of cuffs lying in the centre, a green light on them indicating that the person putting them only needs to place their wrists inside them.

"Go on, take them, good little children don't get punished."

>The voice calls out from within the white room, before returning its "attention" to Traction again.

"Now now Jackie, that's so impersonal. . . This may be just business."

>The system echoes the word "business" several times.

"But that doesn't mean I'll just kill you like that, you can get out of this safely if you just join your friends in handing yourself in. . ."

>The voice then changes locations.

"You were very quick to accept it, though, do you suffer from suicidal ideations, Jackie? Or is your taunting just your way of pretending that you're not scared?"

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:14:07 No.2044

File: 1685906047041-0.png (656.17 KB, 598x858, Traction - 6.png)

File: 1685906047041-1.jpg (56.49 KB, 455x810, Weathervane.jpg)

File: 1685906047041-2.jpg (33.81 KB, 425x600, Splice - 3.jpg)

>>2043
>Irritated, Traction then shouts out:

"I'm fucking annoyed because I've already been through the ringer! Experimentation, torture and death! Chiral was more terrifying than you ever could be!"

>Weathervane then turns to Traction and shouts:

"Jackie that's enough! You've made your point! If we can get out of here, let's just do that!"

>Splice nods slowly, stating:

"I'm not comfortable about our current situation - and I'm not powerful enough to get us out of here."

>Silent for a moment, Traction then simmers and scowls, stating:

"…..Fine. But only because of you two. Not this wannabe tryhard."

>Traction then joins the other two Helixers in the white room - as they move to put their wrists inside of the cuffs.

"How convenient that there are exactly three sets of cuffs waiting for us."

>Splice says, somewhat humorously. Weathervane stares at him, while Traction is silent.

"Let's just get out of here. I'm done."

>Traction says, finally speaking.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:17:13 No.2045

File: 1685906233586.jpg (21.66 KB, 640x360, 360_F_328671440_O61Nci0kcy….jpg)

>>2044
>The door slams shut behind the three, but the voice follows them.

"That's a good boy, Jackie, I promise nothing will happen to you as long play nicely. . ."

>The room shifts slightly, the feeling of inertia suggesting that it's moving downwards.

"Now you just be good little prisoners and wait for the MRD, ok?"

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:31:27 No.2046

File: 1685907087251-0.jpg (100 KB, 640x480, Spire.jpg)

File: 1685907087251-1.png (329.82 KB, 1000x563, Hallway.png)

File: 1685907087251-2.jpeg (1.31 MB, 1251x1770, Valkyrie.jpeg)

File: 1685907087251-3.jpg (111.23 KB, 334x861, Traction - 4.jpg)

>>2045
>Location: MRD Spire
>Time: 8:00 PM

"So let me get this straight. You surrendered peacefully after unauthorized entry into the UP facility here in the city?"

>Valkyrie says, looking over the notes once more, before she continues talking to the cuffed Helixers in their cells.

"Yes."

>Silent for a moment, she then continues speaking:

"…..And you attacked on behalf of the Crimson Tide?"

>Silent, Traction states:

"…..Not on their behalf - but as an attempted show of trust."

>Now forming a disapproving expression on her face, Valkyrie then lowers the notepad on her desk as she states:

"Well, not counting unlawful breaking and entering, unauthorize use of Meta-Human powers in the assistance of said breaking and entering, potential homicide charges for the damage done on behalf of your Brigadier friends…."

>Valkyrie continues listing off the charges for a few seconds before concluding by stating:

"You and your friends will get life - unless you decide to take the other option."

>Confused, Traction looks up at the new MRD Commander - stating:

"What are you talking about? What other option?"

>Valkyrie puts her hands on her hips as she explains:

"You agree to work for us as a black ops member. Wetwork operations - anything we need done off the book. We'll commute your sentence, as long as you adhere to some strict provisions."

>Seeing Traction look away in annoyance, Valkyrie then says:

"Mundas, Weathervane, Splice and even Vulcan have already agreed. Don't you want to see your friends from outside of a jail cell?"

>Traction thinks long and hard for a moment before finally saying:

"…..I'll do it."

>Valkyrie then gives Traction a genuine smile as she states:

"Good. I'm all for second chances - it's better than putting your mind and skills to waste, isn't it?"

>Valkyrie then picks up the notebook and turns around to walk out of the room. As she does so, she says to Traction behind her:

"And don't worry about the Crimson Tide. I have a feeling they're going to be a bit too preoccupied to attack the Spire. Or not. We'll see."

>She then leaves the area as the door closes shut.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:42:11 No.2047

File: 1685907730563-0.jpeg (5.5 MB, 2480x3508, Valkyrie - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685907730563-1.jpeg (158.1 KB, 776x1200, Mirage.jpeg)

File: 1685907730563-2.jpeg (78.19 KB, 1050x1200, Valkyrie - 2.jpeg)

>>2046
>As Valkyrie walks into the larger hangar area - where more cells are holding criminals, she straightens her hair - getting her bangs out of her eyes. Sighing, she then closes her eyes for a moment, before she then hears a voice:

"So, how was the last interrogation?"

>Opening her eyes, Valkyrie watches as a woman with blue skin and red hair appears before her - having been camouflaged before.

"Just because you've been amplified with humour doesn't mean I can't sense you, Jennifer."

>The woman then laughs for a moment, giving Valkyrie the opportunity to stare into her pupil-less golden eyes. They glow with a faint radiance, almost inviting Valkyrie to continue staring into them…..

"…..Diana, are you there?"

>The woman snaps her fingers in front of Valkyrie, as her attention comes back to the woman herself.

"Right, sorry Mirage. I was thinking about something else. Another angle that I feel that we've been missing."

>Giving a skeptical look, Mirage then says, in a sarcastic tone of voice:

"And what, pray tell, would that be, ma'am?"

>Valkyrie assumes a thinking position, stating:

"There was a rumor going around that Traction and his crew originally died when those Gemini Twins attacked the city. Collateral damage. Chase handled the entire case, and I never really got the specifics…."

>Raising an eyebrow, Mirage then says:

"Need to know basis, right? I wouldn't worry about it. Even if they could be cloned - wouldn't they lack their memories?"

>Valkyrie slightly moves her head - conceding the validity of Mirage's point.

"Fair enough. Either way, let Chase know that they're ready for field training starting next week. We're going to need them if we've got another Meta-Human gang war on the way."

>Mirage then turns into an identical copy of Valkyrie, stating:

"Oh, I can't wait to tell the Director that I've been doing such a good job~ Maybe he'll reward me effectively this time~."

>Valkyrie pulls at Mirage's ear - with just enough force to hurt in all the right ways. Yelping, Mirage instinctively turns back into her standard appearance, stating:

"H-Hey! My power doesn't work on you! It was just a test, ma'am. Ha ha….."

>Mirage says nervously as Valkyrie rolls her eyes.

"I knew that seeing you volunteer for the Ambrosia project was a bad idea."

>Valkyrie then walks off, with Mirage walking right beside her - attempting to talk to her about different subjects…..

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:47:44 No.2048

File: 1685908063773-0.jpg (100 KB, 640x480, Spire.jpg)

File: 1685908063773-1.jpg (17.48 KB, 654x368, Aurora - 10.jpg)

File: 1685908063773-2.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

File: 1685908063773-3.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

>>2047
>Location: MRD Spire - Rooftops
>Time: 8:00 PM

>Arachnid remains hovering on the front of the Aurora - as it continuously pulsates a soft red light from its underside. Looking over the MRD super structure down below - he's aware of the hovercraft's inability to be detected, at least by their conventional radar and sonar technology.

"…….."

>Looking down at his hands, Arachnid then sighs as he says to himself:

"…..Am I really doing the right thing here? What if Aiden finds out what I did-"

>Suddenly, a voice speaks out from the side of Arachnid's hearing, stating:

"What? About the files? I'm almost insulted that you thought that was a secret."

>Spinning around, Arachnid shouts as he sees Mosaic hovering in the air - with his arms crossed.

"B-Boss! I d-didn't mean t-to-"

>Shaking his head, Mosaic sighs, stating:

"It's alright Damian. I planted the files there for you to find, because well…."

>Stroking the bottom of his helmet, where his chin is, Mosaic exclaims:

"Reverse psychology is a useful tool."

>Arachnid is then silent for a moment, as he finally remembers the same statement that Mosaic told him earlier.

{"Try and keep this a secret from your friend. As much as she seems capable of handling herself, I wouldn't want her getting involved in this situation with Eukaryon. The less she knows, the better."}

>Looking up incredulously, Arachnid then says:

"You wanted me to get closer to her?! So you said that knowing I'd disobey you?!"

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 19:52:36 No.2049

File: 1685908355958-0.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685908355958-1.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685908355958-2.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

>>2048
>Mosaic gives a sheepish laugh as he states:

"You're a lot more like me than you realize, Damian. But yes, I wanted to compel you to go with your gut - and take that step."

>Confused, Arachnid stands up - still hovering on his new vehicle's front hull, stammering in disbelief:

"B-But you. But I…..I-I didn't….W-What-"

>Mosaic holds his hands up, gesturing to Arachnid to calm down and compose himself.

"It's alright. I get why you're confused. It's pretty counterintuitive from me, right? The guy who taught you everything about being covert and withholding information."

>Making a gesture with his hand, Mosaic explains:

"Well, I know that you have feelings for her - and people do crazy things when they're feeling emotional. Like how I told a certain someone my secret identity - knowing full well that it could be used against me."

>Crossing his legs in mid-air, Mosaic watches as Arachnid tries to process the information.

"….What? It took you over a year to tell me who you were - after you started training me. What kind of person would you just throw caution into the wind for-"

>Realization hits Damian as he then says:

"…..Oh."

>Nodding, Mosaic says:

"Love makes you do crazy things. Or well, the idea of being in love that is. Stupid things like what like I did."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:00:17 No.2050

File: 1685908816329-0.jpg (1017.83 KB, 6362x2938, Aurora - 5.jpg)

File: 1685908816329-1.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685908816329-2.png (2.89 MB, 998x2000, Mosaic.png)

>>2049
>Silent for a moment, Arachnid then says:

"….Any chance you'd tell me who the lucky lady was? I can't imagine you ever falling for someone….."

>Mosaic keeps his legs crossed as he levitates in mid-air, casually stating:

"Well you've already met Stella - so I'm not sure how much that matters."

>Sighing, Arachnid states:

"I figured it was someone else. Well either way, what was the point of convincing me to run into Bella's arms like that?"

>Arachnid places a hand on his chest - his jacket partially obscuring his hand from Mosaic's view as he continues to speak:

"I work at Archeon part time. Any amount of information that I know - could be incredibly dangerous, especially if that gets into UP's hands.."

>Mosaic replies, without missing a beat.

"Yet you did it, without even thinking. You must really care about this woman, don't you?"

>Arachnid looks away, sighing.

"….I'm sorry for screwing up. You can take the Aurora from me. I almost caused a scandal that could've tarnished my parents' reputation."

>Shaking his head, Mosaic states:

"No, you did what your heart drove you to do. I just nudged you along in that direction by making it easier for you to get those files."

>Looking back at Mosaic with a puzzled expression, Arachnid then asks:

"But why?! Why would you go that far for me?!?!"

>Mosaic then stands upright as he begins to hover towards Arachnid. Once in front of him, Mosaic places a hand on his protégé's shoulder, and says:

"Because it's as I said. I see a lot of myself in you - and I wanted to help you avoid my same mistakes."

>Taking his hand off of his shoulder, Mosaic then exclaims:

"Keep how you feel to yourself for now. Even if Bella ever figures it out, your restraint will showcase maturity."

>Mosaic then places his hands back in his jacket pockets as he hovers back a few feet from Arachnid.

"….So I can keep the car and the plane?"

>Mosaic then laughs again, stating:

"Of course you can. You're taking on a bigger responsibility, so you'll need the tools to help get the job done right."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:09:20 No.2051

File: 1685909359860-0.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685909359860-1.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1685909359860-2.png (2.31 MB, 1024x1300, Mosaic - 23.png)

>>2050
>Arachnid then looks over the city down below - taking in the sight of the massive display of large towers and megastructures.

"It's so much room to cover every night. How could you have possibly done this, Aiden?"

>Mosaic hovers up next to him, crossing his arms as he looks down at the city streets below. Casually, he states:

"With a lot of timing, preparation and luck. Also the nanite drones that map out every major part of the city….but that part's a secret. Keep it will you?"

>Playfully, Mosaic sticks out his right pinky finger, saying:

"Pinkie promise?"

>Scoffing, Arachnid then does the promise before Mosaic crosses his arms again. Arachnid then speaks, stating:

"….I still do appreciate everything that you've done for me. I just have one more request though."

>Turning to look his mentor right in the helmet, Arachnid's digital eye lenses narrow as he asks:

"…..Please don't go after Bella, OK? I know she's….a lot to handle. But I think there's a lot of good in her - and she just wants to help people in her own way."

>Thinking for a moment, Mosaic gives an amused sigh as he states:

"Almost exactly word-for-word what I told the woman who I thought I was in love with. That she wasn't like the rest of her family - and she had made the choice to be different. To be better."

>Placing his hands behind his back, Mosaic then sighs, exclaiming:

"Of course, I never got to know her - to confirm whether that was true or not. Part of that was wishful thinking on my part, in a bid to woo her. I wasn't being fully honest with myself either."

>Looking down, Arachnid feels his face darken with regret after asking that request.

>At least, until Mosaic states:

"But then again, circumstances are different. You've seen Bella. Worked with her for months. You know her better than I currently do - and according to you?"

>Pointing at Arachnid, Mosaic leans backwards, hovering in the air still:

"She managed to avoid killing someone - right in her grasp. She could've, but she didn't do that. Maybe you're right about her after all."

>Pretending to think it over a bit more with an exaggerated thinking expression, Mosaic then says:

"Hmmm. Sure, I won't go after her - just because you asked."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:20:22 No.2052

File: 1685910021387-0.jpg (17.48 KB, 654x368, Aurora - 10.jpg)

File: 1685910021387-1.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685910021387-2.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

>>2051
>Silent for a moment, Arachnid then nods, stating:

"Thank you Aiden. I mean it. I really do."

>Now silent for another moment, Arachnid then tests his luck and asks Mosaic:

"….Forgive me for asking. But don't you feel a bit of regret over what you did?"

>Immediately wanting to diffuse the situation, Arachnid stammers a clarification of his original statement:

"I-I mean y-you were honest and all. B-But at the end of the day, d-didn't that m-mean that the woman you loved….."

>Silent, as he thinks he can feel Mosaic's glare on him through his helmet.

"…..More or less rejected you?"

>Arachnid says, steeling his nerves and using every ounce of willpower he has, in order to not crumple apart right then and there.

>Mosaic remains silent, as he slowly hovers towards Arachnid - hands now in his jacket pockets once again as he hovers a few feet away from him.

>Arachnid can feel Mosaic's stare burrowing into his mind - if not his soul.

{"Maybe I shouldn't have asked that…."}

>The tension is palpable, until Mosaic suddenly says:

"Nope."

>Surprised, Arachnid watches as Mosaic hovers back a few feet again, stating:

"But why? You said you loved that woman, right? I thought you-"

>Mosaic then finally explains his full thoughts.

"I wasn't in love with Hiyuki, Damian. I thought I was - but I was more in love with the idea of being with her. Someone who I thought would understand me and relate to me."

>Crossing his legs once more, Mosaic then exclaims:

"But then I met Stella, and a lot of things happened. To us both. Some good. Most bad. But throughout it all - she was there for me, and I was there for her."

>Pressing a hand to his chest, Mosaic can feel his own heartbeat increasing slowly - in conjunction with his first thoughts about her appearing during the conversation.

"The thing about being in love, Damian….Is that you know it's real - when you stop asking for it. When you stop wondering whether or not it's possible, or whether or not the person you're into loves you back."

>Pointing at Arachnid, Mosaic continues:

"That's why I said that I wanted to help you out - because you didn't question yourself for even a moment over what you were doing. Corporate espionage be damned. For better or for worse…."

>Making a gesture with his pointed finger - revealing his full hand now, Mosaic continues:

"…..Your feelings for her are strong, and they're genuine. They're not selfish, or self-serving, like mine were towards Hiyuki."

>Silent for a moment, Mosaic remains cross legged in mid air as he says:

"You weren't hesitant about your love for the Blake woman. You didn't second guess yourself, or question yourself either. For better or for worse - you made the decision to help her, at whatever cost to you. Whether personal or financial. You basically jeopardized your entire future at Archeon for one woman, and without hesitation."

>Mosaic then appears on the other side of the Aurora - sitting on the opposite side from Arachnid.

"If that's not love?"

>He then turns his helmet to look behind him - still in a relaxed position.

"Then I don't know what is."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:29:20 No.2053

File: 1685910559740-0.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685910559740-1.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685910559740-2.png (2.89 MB, 998x2000, Mosaic.png)

>>2052
>Asking one final question, Arachnid then says:

"….So you have no regrets about things not working out with Hiyuki? None? You don't feel like you've made a mistake?"

>Giving an amused laugh, Mosaic then responds to Arachnid's question, with an answer he's clearly prepared for:

"Everyone has regrets, Damian. Because everybody makes mistakes. But your mistakes don't define you."

>Now getting up and walking over to Arachnid's side of the vehicle - Mosaic sits beside him, before he continues.

"Things change. Experiences occur. Perspectives shift."

>Mosaic then places a hand over his heart as he states:

"And people grow. Whatever empty void or hole in my heart that was there with me for most of my life? I didn't think anything was going to fix it. Hell, I didn't really think Hiyuki would either. That was just my sense of entitlement - I figured I deserved her, for lack of a better term. After everything that happened to me."

>Arachnid hunches over, resting his arms on his legs as he looks to the side at Mosaic - unprepared for his level of candor.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:33:26 No.2054

File: 1685910806033-0.jpg (326.04 KB, 1000x1000, Mosaic - 4.jpg)

File: 1685910806033-1.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1685910806033-2.png (452.01 KB, 650x910, Stella - 9.png)

>>2053
"You have to understand Damian. For someone like me, who could basically get whatever I wanted, since I was a kid. I developed a complex of entitlement, in addition to my emotional instability. If I couldn't have something after making my intentions clear - I'd naturally complain and whine. I wasn't exactly a very good person."

>Silent, Arachnid nods as he then says:

"Rich asshole syndrome."

>Mosaic nods, stating:

"More or less."

>Leaning back by comparison to Arachnid, Mosaic then looks up in the sky - straight up at the moon, stating:

"…..But then I met a sorceress who basically lost….everything in her world. Her family. Her friends. Her people. Hell, even her sense of self. Her very identity."

>Mosaic pauses for effect, before continuing.

"She lost basically everything that would've kept her going. Under most circumstances, people would crumple under that pressure. She almost did…."

>Pausing for effect once more, Mosaic then says:

"…..But then I offered to help her - without knowing anything else. Help her adjust. Give her a home and a new life here. The least that I could do for someone in need. I didn't have any intentions of wooing her either. Stella's incredibly attractive - but I was so fixated on Hiyuki, as you know."

>Arachnid is silent, as Mosaic then continues speaking:

"…..Then when I was at my lowest moment…When I felt like there was no point in going on - because I was that much of a failure."

>Mosaic then lowers his head in shame, remembering the pain of his mistakes.

"…..That's when she was there. Supporting me. She didn't judge me for my decisions. She didn't reprimand me, even though she had every right to."

>Silent, he then states:

"….She just…accepted me for who I am - flaws and all. Failures and all. Mistakes and all. She accepted me for who I was, even at the point where I felt that I was worth nothing."

>Mosaic then holds out his gloved palm, as he makes a gesture - creating a miniature picture of Stella out of mana particles.

"….That was the moment I fell in love with her. It's why I'm going to marry her soon, too."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:41:54 No.2055

File: 1685911314293-0.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685911314293-1.jpg (151.69 KB, 736x1086, Mosaic - 24.jpg)

File: 1685911314293-2.jpg (59.28 KB, 408x600, Aiden - 12.jpg)

File: 1685911314293-3.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1685911314293-4.png (146.05 KB, 300x342, Damian - 3.png)

>>2054
>Mosaic then takes off his helmet with both of his gloved hands - as he then slowly whips his hair out of his eyes. As Aiden's midnight black hair parts from his face - Arachnid can then see his pulsating blue and red eyes.

"…..I've never seen that before."

>Aiden closes his eyes and smiles before saying:

"That's because I suppress it. I'm generating too much magical power and other forms of power at this point. I can contain it, easily - but if I lose my full concentration for even a moment - it starts flooding through."

>Looking down at his hand, he then closes it into a fist as he rests his helmet in his other arm.

"The power…..It's what got me into this mess, and had me developing that sense of entitlement and arrogance. Maybe someone would say that it cost me something. But I gained a lot more from it."

>Arachnid is silent for another moment, before he decides to take off his own helmet and place it at his side. With midnight black hair similar to Aiden's own, Damian then parts his hair - revealing his blood red eyes.

"The glasses do a good job of hiding them, correct?"

>Damian nods as he looks over the skyline once more.

"I got used to them. It's easier than the contact lenses from before."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:44:54 No.2056

File: 1685911493496-0.jpg (17.48 KB, 654x368, Aurora - 10.jpg)

File: 1685911493496-1.jpg (326.04 KB, 1000x1000, Mosaic - 4.jpg)

File: 1685911493496-2.jpg (617.27 KB, 666x674, Aiden - 10.jpg)

File: 1685911493496-3.jpeg (123.38 KB, 720x540, Arachnid - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685911493496-4.png (281.38 KB, 1275x952, Damian.png)

>>2055
>Nodding, Aiden then looks at Damian as he states:

"Still, that's the point of my story. Nobody knows what love is, until they stop asking what it is. And nobody stops asking, until they experience it for themselves. Genuinely. Truly."

>Thinking about Stella in his mind once more, Aiden then says:

"I've never felt happy in my life until I kissed her. Not really. More content, than fulfilled."

>Giving a partial nod and sideways head shake, Damian then states:

"Well, I'm glad to hear that, Aiden. I just wish I wasn't so wild with my taste in women."

>Aiden then closes his eyes and starts laughing loudly. Damian is concerned until Aiden says:

"It's alright. I dampened the area around us in terms of sound and light. Nobody can see or hear this."

>Opening his eyes, Aiden then states:

"That was just the funniest statement you've ever said. In a good way."

>Surprised, Damian then sighs as he says:

"Yeah well. In that case - that's fair."

>Aiden then puts his helmet back on, as Damian motions to do the same with his helmet. After a few moments, Mosaic and Arachnid are hiding their identities once again.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:51:09 No.2057

File: 1685911868063-0.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1685911868063-1.gif (897.59 KB, 500x215, Flight.gif)

File: 1685911868063-2.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1685911868063-3.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

File: 1685911868063-4.gif (2.48 MB, 540x223, Flight - 3.gif)

>>2056
>Mosaic then quickly jumps off from the Aurora - as Arachnid remotely opens the front hatch and flips inside the driver's seat.

"I'll race you back to the Archeon Complex. See if you can get some more practice with an armored aerial vehicle."

>As Arachnid begins flipping switches, pressing buttons and placing his hands on the synaptic controls that connect to the main engines, he then says:

"You're on. Bet you I can go around the Financial Sector's bridge in record time."

>Mosaic crosses his arms and cranes his head to the side, slowly.

"Oh? You think you're faster than I was when I first made that thing? Hah, alright then. Funny how you're more confident about flying an aerial tank than a basic car."

>Assuming a running stance in the air - Mosaic then speaks:

"Three…."

>Arachnid grips onto the Aurora's controls tightly as the black and red interior of the aircraft glows brightly.

"Two…"

>Mosaic then looks ahead at the darkness of the city skyline beyond, stating:

"One…."

>Then simultaneously, both Mosaic and Arachnid shout:

"GO!"

>Mosaic then rockets forward, blasting off at supersonic speeds - with the Aurora flying equally fast. Using experimental anti-gravity and kinetic dampening technology, Arachnid manages to keep pace in the high tech vehicle.

>Both figures then trail off into the night - blasting off without a care in the world.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 20:56:45 No.2058

File: 1685912204447-0.jpg (578.39 KB, 800x507, Mansion - 5.jpg)

File: 1685912204447-1.jpg (894.1 KB, 4096x2214, Grayson House - Interior.jpg)

File: 1685912204447-2.jpg (54.38 KB, 800x371, Sci Fi Kitchen.jpg)

File: 1685912204447-3.jpg (55.27 KB, 564x810, Aiden - 20.jpg)

File: 1685912204447-4.jpeg (252.66 KB, 1184x2048, Stella.jpeg)

>>2057
>Location: Sanctuary City - Residential Sector
>Time: 9:00 PM

>Aiden rubs his eyelids as he walks into the kitchen - seeing a bunch of food sitting on the table. Curious, he then picks up a plate and begins placing some food from the bowls onto it. He then grabs a spoon and starts eating as he walks around.

>Finding Stella in the living room reading a book, she doesn't even move a muscle as she says:

"Long day? I'm sure watching over your protégé took a lot out of you."

>Stella says, finally turning around with a smirk on her face.

>Aiden sighs as he moves to go sit down on the couch beside her. Now eating from his place, without spilling a bit of food, he then says:

"I just wanted to see how he'd do. He's supposed to take over for me anyways. Eventually that is."

>Raising an eyebrow, Stella then has a realization as a look of surprise crosses over her face.

"….You're actually thinking of stopping? All of it?"

>Mosaic moves his head to the side slightly, going left to right as he thinks to himself.

"Eventually, yeah. Once I'm certain that the worst of this is behind the city, and we're all in the clear."

>Surprised and impressed, Stella then looks back at her book, resuming her reading.

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 21:05:33 No.2059

File: 1685912732379-0.jpg (290.8 KB, 1500x1083, Manor Bedroom.jpg)

File: 1685912732379-1.jpg (59.28 KB, 408x600, Aiden - 12.jpg)

File: 1685912732379-2.jpg (39.28 KB, 435x600, Two Tone Hair.jpg)

File: 1685912732379-3.jpeg (314.44 KB, 1242x2048, Stella - 6.jpeg)

>>2058
>After about an hour or two, Aiden finally fixes himself up and goes to lie on his side of the bed. Stella continues reading her tome, as she then asks Aiden:

"So what exactly convinced you to decide on this shift? This shift in your priorities?"

>Looking up at the ceiling, Aiden then says:

"You."

>Feeling herself immediately turn red in the face, Stella then looks off to the side - trying to hide her smile, and feeling of satisfaction.

"Well….I didn't think I would be that convincing….."

>Thinking for a moment, Stella then says:

"Aiden…you don't have to stop being Mosaic just because of me."

>Nodding, Aiden then sits up and looks at Stella, stating:

"I know. But Aiden takes priority - not Mosaic. Not anymore."

>Aiden then puts his arm around Stella as he slowly leans her in - with her leaning on him.

"If someone needs me? I can put on the fancy magic costume and save the day. But that won't come at the cost of…well….."

>Aiden then leans his head towards Stella's, feeling his own face turn red as he says:

"…..This."

>Stella then gives a warm and genuine smile as she states:

"I knew you were something else, Oreo…."

>Blinking, Aiden then says:

"Oreo?"

>Stella looks up at Aiden, motioning for him to look at his own hair.

>As Aiden does, he then sees something he hasn't seen before - white stripes. His hair is now two toned, similar to his Sorcerer Supreme counterpart.

"Prolonged mana exposure causes physiological changes. You've been charged with magic for so long now - it's starting to show the effects."

>Resting her head back on Aiden's own, she then closes her eyes and happily hums:

"You can disguise it, just like your counterpart does~."

Event 06/04/23 (Sun) 21:10:14 No.2060

File: 1685913013780-0.jpg (290.8 KB, 1500x1083, Manor Bedroom.jpg)

File: 1685913013780-1.jpg (617.27 KB, 666x674, Aiden - 10.jpg)

File: 1685913013780-2.png (452.01 KB, 650x910, Stella - 9.png)

File: 1685913013780-3.gif (1.12 MB, 498x278, Kiss.gif)

>>2059
>Aiden takes one more look at his hair, using his extra-sensory perception. Recognizing the exact same hair alterations that he saw in Magister - he then says:

"….Wow. I really do look like an Oreo. You weren't kidding."

>Still closing her eyes, Stella then says:

"As I said, Oreo. I knew you were something else."

>Aiden then leans down and gives Stella a deep kiss on the lips.

>After a few seconds of the deep kiss, he then pulls himself back from Stella as he says:

"There's something I want to say to you - but I'll save it for tomorrow."

>Resting back on his pillow once again, Aiden then feels Stella rest her head on his body once more. He then says:

"Just know…..that I don't think I need any more time to come to a decision, honey. Good night. I love you."

>Immediately understanding his words, Stella feels butterflies in her stomach, before she then says:

"…..In that case, see you tomorrow, Oreo."

>Both of them then slowly drift off into a sleep state - peacefully resting for the next day to come soon.

[The End]