/simu/ - >Date: August 10th, 2017>Time: 11:30 PM>Location: Sanctuary City - Outskirts"Come on. Get up.">A sturdy hand grabs onto the arm of an injured MRD agent - tossing them across the dimly lit room. A loud thudding noise surges from the point of imp

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[Solo] - "Fault Line" Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 21:56:48 No.2537

>Date: August 10th, 2017
>Time: 11:30 PM
>Location: Sanctuary City - Outskirts

"Come on. Get up."

>A sturdy hand grabs onto the arm of an injured MRD agent - tossing them across the dimly lit room. A loud thudding noise surges from the point of impact, as the armored peacekeeper crumples to the floor - lowering against the wall.

"……….."

>The figure then adjusts the bandages on their wrists.

"Still not talking? Good."

>Flicking out with his fingers, the figure then produces a set of bright orange sparks across their fingertips.

"That'll make this part more enjoyable for me."

>The hooded figure then slowly walks across the room, looking the MRD agent head on as the latter begins to frantically wave their hands in front of them.

"Stay the fuck away from me! I already told you that I don't know anythi-AAAAAGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!"

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

>From outside of the "interrogation" room, a pair of Brigadiers lean against the wall. Standing right in front of the door - but facing it from either side, they continue standing guard.

"You sure he knows what he's doing? The dude said he didn't know shit."

"He's lying, dumbass. Pop open a book for once. Interrogation's the fine art of 'forceful persuasion' - 'specially when people are lying."

>More screams permeate the cracked edges of the worn down door. The dilapidated hallway having seen better days.

"Dude's probably been working there for years. You think he's gonna snitch on his own people? Would you?"

"If it meant gettin' outta that shit? Abso-fuckin'-lutely."

"You're an actual little bitch, you know that?"

"Fuck off."

>Suddenly, both Brigadiers hear a sudden barrage of loud noises. Bottles shattering. Screams from their fellow Brigadiers - and what seems to be the sound of bones cracking.

"What the….You hear that?!"

"I've got ears, dumbass. Go check it out."

>Nodding, the Brigadier does so.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:05:03 No.2538

File: 1697234702358-0.jpg (508.33 KB, 1168x630, Brigadiers - 2.jpg)

File: 1697234702358-1.jpg (202.18 KB, 670x377, Aisha - 9.jpg)

File: 1697234702358-2.jpg (170.94 KB, 914x1351, Derelict.jpg)

File: 1697234702358-3.jpg (404.26 KB, 1500x1061, TK Forcefield.jpg)

File: 1697234702358-4.jpeg (91.45 KB, 637x483, Tarantula - 3.jpeg)

>>2537
>Squinting, the Brigadier opens the door leading out of the hallway - and into the main living space of the dilapidated building they call a base.

"The fuck's going on here-"

>The Brigadier ducks, as one of their gang crashes into the door behind him. Stunned, the Brigadier turns around.

"The hell are you guys doin-"

>Then, the masked thug sees the cause of the commotion. Three figures, who definitely aren't members of his gang.

"Holy shit! Is that the-"

"Yeah! It's the bitch who ran the Outsiders! Little help here, dipshit!"

>One of the Brigadiers says - as they continue firing rounds from their SMG at the woman.

>Aisha, the former leader of the Outsiders - continues holding her hand out. Psionically, she taps into her innate power of matter manipulation to remotely control the movement and trajectory of the bullets. As they begin to arc around her - they seemingly find their way towards the remaining Brigadiers.

"SHIT! MOVE YOUR ASSES, IDIOTS!"

>One Brigadier is struck in the neck by a stray bullet - falling to the ground as they begin to bleed out.

>Another Brigadier gets their neck snapped by Aisha's partner - Derelict. The former leader of the Harbingers turns her attention towards the Brigadier who just entered the room - sizing him up and down with an uninterested look.

"Oh, more trash. Wonderful."

>Before the Brigadier can react - they're then suddenly pulled up from the ground by a pure black set of strands. This "webbing" rapidly pulls him up to the ceiling - where he comes face to face with his attacker.

"You aware what ten tons of striking force can do you to skeletal system?"

>Nodding quickly, despite not knowing the exact answer, the Brigadier immediately shuts up.

"Good. Then you'll get a sample, instead of the main course."

>The Brigadier is then struck in the face - knocked out cold by the slim and muscular figure, sticking to the ceiling.

"Get down from there, Tarantula. We're on a schedule."

>Aisha says, annoyed.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:13:50 No.2539

File: 1697235230172-0.jpg (37.64 KB, 440x504, Aisha.jpg)

File: 1697235230172-1.jpg (160.31 KB, 1312x1920, Derelict - 3.jpg)

File: 1697235230172-2.jpeg (58.21 KB, 735x705, Tarantula - 4.jpeg)

>>2538
>Aisha then looks towards Derelict.

"Get the supplies. I'll round up the rest of their forces in the back. The ones that comply and don't resist capture."

>Pointing up at Tarantula, Aisha then says:

"Rescue the MRD agent and capture Phobos. HQ needs to know who's partnering up with the Brigadiers."

>Tarantula narrows his organic white lenses - staring at Aisha from a crawling position on the ceiling.

"I thought the Brigadiers were working with the Crimson Tide now?"

>Aisha looks down at her watch - counting down the minutes internally.

"The Brigadiers don't do extended partnerships. They likely went to the Crimson Tide for safety after the pressure campaign the MRD placed on them. I doubt they have any intention of being their permanent enforcement arm."

>Derelict gives a casual and haphazard shrug.

"The Crimson Tide don't do partnerships anyways."

>Tarantula then gracefully backflips from the ceiling onto the ground - landing on his feet.

"Then I'll get the MRD agent out of here. This Phobos prick picked the wrong day to get on my radar…."

>As Tarantula stands back up, Aisha notes.

"Remember. We need him alive, Tarantula. Our deal with the MRD is contingent on optimal performance. That goes for all of us."

>Scoffing, Tarantula lightly nods as Derelict turns to Aisha.

"I'll get to snooping around them. See whatever contraband they've smuggled into the city with their new 'benefactor's' help."

>All three of them then go their separate ways.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:26:13 No.2540

File: 1697235972465-0.jpg (22.19 KB, 315x664, Phobos - 3.jpg)

File: 1697235972465-1.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

File: 1697235972465-2.gif (1.36 MB, 480x276, Kick - 2.gif)

File: 1697235972465-3.jpg (56.12 KB, 308x679, MRD - 9.jpg)

File: 1697235972465-4.jpg (11.58 KB, 612x612, USB.jpg)

>>2539
>Back in the interrogation room, the MRD agent finishes shouting. Now panting, blood slowly seeps from their exposed face - as parts of his cracked helmet are now scattered all over the floor.

"I'm not gonna ask you again."

>Phobos then places his fingers together to form a blade of electricity. Aiming it directly at the side of the MRD agent's neck, he then says:

"Where's the gene imprint the MRD took from that Sacrament chick?"

>Silent once more, the MRD agent steadies their breathing - attempting to muster the last of their energy.

"I ain't gonna ask you again, tin man. Talk, or your buddies are getting your corpse mailed back to HQ."

>Phobos then pulls his hand back - threatening to decapitate the agent.

"Fine. I'll find another one of your buddies to beat the info out of-"

>The door to the interrogation room then blasts open - as the other Brigadier guarding the room is sent flying through. Landing on the ground in an unconscious state, the Brigadier's knocked out body catches Phobos off guard.

"What in the fuck-"

>Then, a swift blur of black mass swoops into the room - kicking Phobos out of the interrogation room with enough force as to knock him out of the entire abandoned building.

"FUCK!"

>The MRD agent remains on the floor - panting heavily and coughing up blood.

"……..The hell was that?"

>Noticing a sudden new sensation on his chest - he looks down to see a medical injector kit sitting on his lap.

"…Bio-foam kit?"

>The MRD agent then finds an opening in their cracked armor and injects the medical serum into his body. After a few seconds, his pain starts to alleviate, as the nociceptors in his body turn off. Combined with the artificial numbness of pain, his body then gets a metabolic infusion of nutrients - allowing him to move again.

"……Must be a friendly then. Thank God."

>Standing up, the MRD agent then quickly pulls back a hidden piece of his armor - revealing a small USB drive inside of it.

"Need to get this back to HQ, ASAP."

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:34:25 No.2541

File: 1697236465345-0.png (200.66 KB, 622x343, Phobos - 2.png)

File: 1697236465345-1.jpeg (125.06 KB, 735x735, Tarantula - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697236465345-2.gif (1.95 MB, 500x270, Kick - 2.gif)

File: 1697236465345-3.jpg (184.77 KB, 1200x801, Forest - 2.jpg)

>>2540
>Phobos is sent flying up, dozens of meters into the air. His mind reeling from the shock of the strike, he then regains his bearings in mid-air.

"Gyah! What the fuck was that?!?!"

>Before he can react - a thin strand of black mass seemingly connects to his chest from below. Looking down, Phobos then reacts.

"What the?! What is this shit-"

>The midnight black form of Tarantula then zips towards Phobos, striking him in the face with a clean right hook.

"Surprise, dickhead."

>As Phobos is knocked back with the punch, Tarantula webs him up again - reeling him in for another kick. Landing the front of his boot on Phobos's chin - Tarantula does a mid-air spin kick, sending him up even higher.

"AGGHH! Who the fuck are you?!"

>Phobos, reeling from the pain of the strikes, winces as he begins to spark up his fingertips with orange electricity.

>Creating a series of spherical homing orbs - Phobos flings them at Tarantula down below.

>Tarantula instinctively moves his body in mid-air, using his momentum to alter his trajectory, as he narrowly avoids the electric orbs.

>However, one of them grazes against his suit, causing it to reflexively retract to avoid getting hit.

{"Right. You don't like electricity. Arachnid proved that much."}

>Changing tactics, Tarantula stretches out his right palm, and jettisons a different type of material from the white patch on the back of his hand.

>The silverish-white material lands directly on Phobos's face, blinding him and causing him to scream in anger.

"The fuck is this crap?! Glue?!?!"

>Now allowing himself to barrel towards the forest below, Tarantula thinks to himself.

{"The protoplasm's biomass is vulnerable to electricity and fire. Changing its chemical composition to spider silk seemed to work! I'll have to keep that in mind."}

>Tarantula then manifests a set of wingsuit fabrics from his black suit - allowing him to glide gracefully and quickly to the ground below, now hiding himself in the trees of the forest.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:44:40 No.2542

File: 1697237079807-0.jpg (184.77 KB, 1200x801, Forest - 2.jpg)

File: 1697237079807-1.jpg (178.15 KB, 625x1000, Phobos.jpg)

File: 1697237079807-2.gif (2.01 MB, 500x288, Electricity - 2.gif)

File: 1697237079807-3.jpg (88.69 KB, 1920x1080, Fire Blast - 3.jpg)

File: 1697237079807-4.jpeg (440.51 KB, 1920x2400, Tarantula - 6.jpeg)

>>2541
>Struggling to pull away the webbing stuck to his face, Phobos curses out and screams in anger.

"You little shit! I'm gonna find you and rip you apart! Limb from fucking limb!"

>As Phobos gets more irate and angry, his eyes glow with electricity - as he then rips the webbing off, watching as it falls to the ground as a burnt crisp.

>Looking around - he then eases up his landing by generating a powerful electromagnetic field around his body. Reacting with the Earth's magnetosphere, he slowly levitates to the ground in the forest.

>Looking around with his blood red and glowing eyes, Phobos then generates a surge of electricity around his open palm.

"You can't hide forever, you piece of shit! Get out here and fight me like a man, you little bitch!"

>Phobos begins lobbing massive spheres of condensed electricity at the trees - causing them to catch fire.

"Come out! Get the fuck out here!"

>Phobos continues lobbing fireballs at the trees - causing them to expunge loose tree branches. While this happens, he doesn't notice the passive surge of energy building around the forest.

>Dark embers of supernatural fire and black goo begin to converge around the edges of the forest.

>Up in the trees, Tarantula remains absolutely silent - trying to control his symbiotic protoplasm.

{"Can't let that fire get too close to me. I don't want to lose control of the suit like before."}

>Tarantula says - remaining upside down as he hangs from a web - obscured by a set of trees off to the side of Phobos's location. As the fire begins to spread, he then braces his nerves.

{"No. I can't…..Let…..it….."}

>Tarantula can feel the uneasiness and fight-or-flight response of the suit grow, in response to its natural fear, as the fire encroaches and reaches every further.

>Phobos then continues lobbing fireballs around in frustration, until he then says.

"You know what? Enough of this bullshit! I'll just flush you out the easy way!"

>Bringing his hands together, Phobos then generates a massive surge of electricity between his hands - then fires it outward, projecting a field of electricity that absolutely torches the entirety of the nearby forest - setting it ablaze.

>As the fire now begins to reach Tarantula, he struggles to maintain control of the suit - his hold on its instinctual and primal hunger for sustenance.

{"No… Nrrrgh. Don't…..lose……control! Don't….loose……."}

>Tarantula then screams, as the black mass of his suit begins to expand and wrap itself around his figure - growing in size.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 22:54:48 No.2543

File: 1697237687457-0.gif (496.72 KB, 500x268, Explosion - 2.gif)

File: 1697237687457-1.png (2.17 MB, 1073x1650, Alt!Tarantula.png)

File: 1697237687457-2.jpg (36.15 KB, 852x480, Protoplasm - 2.jpg)

File: 1697237687457-3.png (200.66 KB, 622x343, Phobos - 2.png)

File: 1697237687457-4.jpeg (377.6 KB, 1090x1594, Tarantula - 5.jpeg)

>>2542
>Phobos waits for a moment, before scoffing to himself.

"Guess you weren't hot shit after all. Dumbass. Now where's the rest of the-"

>Suddenly, Phobos feels his face get smashed in with a massive amount of force. The left side of his face has seemingly collapsed in on itself - as he's sent flying backwards into the burning ashes of the forest.

"W-What the fuck was that?! Ack! Shit that hurt!"

>Bewildered, Phobos quickly stands back up - as a large, hulking figure in black slowly lumbers its way towards him. The figure has an almost malicious sneer on its face, as its large white eyes widen upon seeing Phobos.

"HUNGER! FEED!!!!"

>Eyes widening behind his hood, Phobos then mutters.

"Fuck me…..Is that the same dude?!"

>Letting out a bellowing scream - the figure that used to be Tarantula then generates enough sound and air pressure to smoke out the flames around them. Now lunging at Phobos - the figure grabs onto the criminal and begins to ensnare Phobos with black tentacles.

"No…What are you doing?! What is this?! What?! The fuck?!?! H-H-Hey! HEY! LET ME GO! LET ME FUCKING GO!!!!"

>Phobos begins to scream in terror and pain, as the large and hulking form of Tarantula begins to consume him.

"YOU HURT! HUNGER GROWS! WE MUST FEED! WE MUST CONSUME……YOU!!!!!"

>The hulking figure of Tarantula then scrams at Phobos, as a large tongue like appendage sprouts from his mouth. All the while, Phobos is screaming and panicking - as he's drawn in closer and closer towards his Tarantula's biomass.

"GET AWAY FROM ME! HOLY SHIT! I DON'T WANNA DIE! I DON'T WANNA-"

>Phobos is then entirely consumed by the hulking figure, who leans forward with their arms placed up - gaining sustenance from their "meal".

"Yesssss… Fooood……We consume. We….sustain…."

>After about ten seconds, the hulking form of Tarantula then reaches inside of his large, black body - ripping out the corpse of Phobos and tossing it to the ground.

>As Phobos's lifeless body falls to the ground, Tarantula's large body slowly shrinks down - returning him to his normal form.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 23:05:21 No.2544

File: 1697238320412-0.jpeg (440.51 KB, 1920x2400, Tarantula - 6.jpeg)

File: 1697238320412-1.gif (961.67 KB, 433x281, Energy - 4.gif)

File: 1697238320412-2.png (223.74 KB, 616x332, Electricity.png)

File: 1697238320412-3.jpg (202.18 KB, 670x377, Aisha - 9.jpg)

File: 1697238320412-4.jpg (170.94 KB, 914x1351, Derelict.jpg)

>>2543
>Tarantula then falls on one knee, panting heavily.

"What did….What…."

>Looking down at his hands, he then looks at the dead body of Phobos off to the side.

"…..Shit."

>Aisha and Derelict then come running towards Tarantula, having seen and heard the altercation in the distance. As they approach, Tarantula looks towards them.

"I didn't…..This wasn't supposed to……."

>Aisha sighs and rolls her eyes as she reaches the scene. Immediately figuring out what happened, she then looks at Tarantula.

"He's no longer a threat. Whether alive or dead. That's all that matters."

>Derelict takes a moment to look over Phobos's dead corpse as well.

"Like I said. Trash. Good riddance."

>Looking back at Aisha, Derelict holds up a USB drive between her gloved fingers.

"Correspondence and shipping details are here. Along with blueprints for whatever technology they were supposed to smuggle out."

>Aisha raises an eyebrow.

"The DataDrive attack that happened a few days back. That was them, wasn't it?"

>Derelict nods.

"Yep. You know how these idiots operate. There's nothing they'd want from a megacorp on their own. So naturally, they had to be working for someone else."

>As the two agents are talking, Tarantula looks down at his hands. He feels a burning sensation moving throughout his fingers as he then feels his lenses widen.

"Holy….."

>Sparks of orange electricity begin to fly across his fingers - stunning him.

"What the-"

>Aisha and Derelict turn around.

"…..Looks like the dossier on you was right on the money."

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 23:14:46 No.2545

File: 1697238885916-0.jpg (37.64 KB, 440x504, Aisha.jpg)

File: 1697238885916-1.jpg (160.31 KB, 1312x1920, Derelict - 3.jpg)

File: 1697238885916-2.jpeg (377.6 KB, 1090x1594, Tarantula - 5.jpeg)

File: 1697238885916-3.jpg (22.19 KB, 315x664, Phobos - 3.jpg)

File: 1697238885916-4.jpg (36.15 KB, 852x480, Protoplasm - 2.jpg)

>>2544
>Derelict raises an eyebrow as Aisha explains.

"Tarantula's suit is biomass. It's capable of rapid genetic assimilation and controlled gene recombination."

>Still looking confused for a moment, Derelict waits for Aisha to clarify.

"The longer he absorbs a Meta-Human into his suit's biomass - the more likely that he obtains their powers. At the cost of his targets' lives, it seems."

"Oh."

>Derelict says, looking down at Phobos's corpse once again.

"You said it was an accident right? At least, what you were trying to say."

>Nodding slowly, Tarantula then sighs in aggravation.

"Relax. Phobos had a kill order if he refused to cooperate. You got the job done, kid. A bit sloppy - but still done."

>Looking back at Aisha, Derelict then gives her a quizzical look.

"What were Phobos's powers again? Remind me how lucky our new recruit just became."

>Aisha walks over to Phobos's corpse to kneel down before it. She examines the dead body as she speaks.

"Superhuman characteristics including strength, speed and durability. Fear absorption - meaning he got stronger from negative emotions. Electromagnetism control."

>Whistling, Derelict looks back at Tarantula.

"Not bad, kid. Eat a few more criminals and you could be at the top of the food chain."

>Tarantula is clearly not amused at the suggestion, causing Derelict to sheepishly raise her hands up in the air and feign innocence with her facial expression.

"Was just a suggestion. Don't shoot the messenger."

>Aisha then stands up and speaks.

"Let's move. Phobos is dead and the information is acquired. Mission complete."

>The three of them then proceed to leave the area - as a supernatural black mass slowly begins to consume Phobos's corpse from the ground below.

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 23:26:58 No.2546

File: 1697239617267-0.jpg (175.85 KB, 1200x600, Forest - 4.jpg)

File: 1697239617267-1.jpg (75.76 KB, 748x500, Derelict Building.jpg)

File: 1697239617267-2.jpg (128.31 KB, 1600x1589, Faust - 2.jpg)

File: 1697239617267-3.jpg (764.47 KB, 2000x2829, Nyrian.jpg)

>>2545
"Where the hell am I?"

>Phobos places a hand to his head - still feeling irritated and pained. As he wakes up, he slowly looks around the forest. Noticing that no one's there. None of his crew are there, and the entire building's been ransacked of all useful supplies.

>Irritated, he then sits up, rising to his feet as he begins walking towards the inside of the building. Not even paying attention to his sense of touch or his current situation - he then passes by a mirror.

"What the…."

>It's what he sees in the periphery of his vision, that finally makes him stop and take notice.

"Is that…."

>Looking directly at the mirror - Phobos sees a figure in a black combat suit, a hood and a spectral golden mask. Various pieces of equipment seem to be attached to his new costume, as he raises a gloved finger to his mask.

"…..Me?"

>The figure formerly known as Phobos then continues to look onward - staring into the mirror. As he does so, he then hears a disembodied voice from around the room.

"I would imagine that you are satisfied with your new visage, my subject."

>Spinning around, Phobos begins to feel his eyes dart around the empty room - not sensing a presence nearby.

"What…."

>Turning his attention back towards the mirror, Phobos then notices a humanoid figure with a flame plume for a head behind him.

"Gyah! What the fuck?!?!"

>Turning around again, Faust finds nobody there - before putting two and two together.

"…..You're not human, are you?"

>The figure in the mirror then laughs loudly, an amused expression on his face.

"For one so lacking in foresight, you seem to have manifested baseline levels of logical reasoning. I applaud you, Niles."

>Surprised that the figure knew his name, Phobos then replies.

"OK, now I know this is in my head. There's no way some Jack-O-Lantern Halloween freak would know who I am."

>Suddenly, Phobos feels a searing pain in his chest, as he falls to the ground - screaming.

"GYARRGGGHHHHH!!!!"

>The figure in the mirror shakes his head, feigning concern.

"Oh, my dear subject. Are you hurt? Is that pain which you are feeling?"

>The fiery figure smiles, with an air of smug superiority surrounding his body.

>In a moment, the pain subsides as Faust slowly rises up to his feet.

"Well, I would prefer the most optimal conduit - but you'll have to do. Now listen closely - human. You are now my property, as your soul is mine."

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 23:44:31 No.2547

File: 1697240671020-0.jpg (234.59 KB, 1400x2075, Faust.jpg)

File: 1697240671020-1.png (846.56 KB, 683x1253, Nyrian - 2.png)

>>2546
>Confused, Phobos then grits his teeth behind his mask and punches the mirror.

"Fuck you! I don't take orders from a fucking candle stick!"

>The mirror shatters - along with half of the building with a single strike, causing Phobos to take a step back in shock.

"Holy……."

>Looking down at his hand, he then starts laughing.

"Alright, matchstick. Maybe I spoke too soon!"

>The image of the fiery being then appears before Phobos, arms crossed as they stare at Phobos in amusement.

"As I was saying, my subject. Your soul is now mine to do with as I please. Disobey me again, and I will inflict upon you a pain that can only be dreamt of by your feeble mortal mind."

>Feeling the immense strength and presence of the figure before him, Phobos immediately and instinctively falls to one knee out of fear.

"Y-Yeah! Fine! Whatever you say…….Umm……"

>Seeing the sheer worry and fear in the man's eyes, the fiery figure gives Phobos a wry smile.

"Lord Nyrian - of the Dusk Dimension. The oldest and greatest of the Arcanum Majoris. Your master, and your God."

>Placing his hands behind him, he then looks at Phobos and speaks.

"Arise, Faust. You are my new subject. The direct conduit of my power on this plane of existence - and the instrument of my will."

>Compelled to obey his new master, Faust slowly rises to his feet, remaining silent.

"Good. The trappings of your former life remains ever convenient. How quickly you feel compelled to follow commands."

>Faust remains silent for a moment, before he asks Nyrian a question.

"What is my objective, Lord Nyrian?"

>Nyrian then places his gloved fingertips together, tapping them in a sequence as he looks on excitedly.

"I am very pleased with your candor and decorum. Your objective is simple, Faust. You are to prepare this planet for my arrival."

>Nyrian looks off into the distance, musing as he remembers the past events.

"Your predecessor - the weak willed buffoon that he was, held no compunctions of honor or duty to his cause. Driven only by hatred. How pitiful of a conduit he was."

>Looking at Faust, Nyrian stops speaking for a moment. He then resumes his speech.

"But you? It seems that you are a more….'compliant' soul. Well equipped for the task at hand, I might say." My enemies must not act to destroy you - as you are far too weak to confront them currently."

>Faust nods slowly in response.

"What will ask of me then?"

>Nyrian smiles once more, pointing up into the sky.

"Why, I ask only that you obey and perform your function, Faust. Be the instrument of my will - and engulf my enemies in the flames of my wrath. Once and for all - it must be done."

>Faust then kneels before Nyrian, his demeanor now entirely different to that of Phobos's.

"It will be done."

Event 10/13/23 (Fri) 23:55:28 No.2548

File: 1697241328198-0.png (649.15 KB, 1000x438, Sanctuary City - 3.png)

File: 1697241328198-1.jpg (131.87 KB, 474x500, MRD.jpg)

File: 1697241328198-2.jpg (89.07 KB, 762x1049, Thrasher - 2.jpg)

File: 1697241328198-3.png (192.35 KB, 540x277, Infiltrator - 4.png)

File: 1697241328198-4.jpg (62.49 KB, 1200x571, Hovercraft.jpg)

>>2547
>Date: August 12th, 2017
>Time: 12:00 PM
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown Sector - MRD Containment Checkpoint

"Hurry up, prick. You don't get to stop walking."

>Thrasher looks annoyed as MRD agents shove him past the checkpoint gate. Large numbers of Meta-Gene dampener generators surround the large Meta-Human containment area.

>The former leader of the Brigadiers looks around, eyeing the MRD agents and vehicles in his vicinity. He then scoffs and snarls at the MRD agent behind him.

"Shaddup. I can rip your fuckin' heart out if I feel like it."

>The MRD agent, unfazed, responds with clear irritation in his voice.

"Soon as you try it, a bullet goes in that small brain of yours. Don't test me, Thrasher."

>Thrasher grows silent and then mutters to himself, as he's then pushed through the checkpoint.

>MRD agents on the outside of the checkpoint perimeter then look around - noticing something off in the distance.

"The hell's that?"

>Another MRD agent uses the binocular function of his helmet visor - seeing a bunch of hooded figures in the distance.

"Cosplay season's a bit early this year, ain't it?"

"Yeah. I think so."

>Silent for a moment, the two MRD agents then raise the alarm with a nearby button from their watchpost.

>After a few seconds, a series of MRD hovercraft vehicles begin to encircle the large gathering of hooded figures.

"Huh, that's interesting."

"What is it?"

>The MRD agent in the pilot seat makes a note of the figures down below.

"Their clothes. They've got armor and reinforced metal plating. Looks pretty advanced."

"That's not good then."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:03:16 No.2549

File: 1697241795174-0.jpg (62.49 KB, 1200x571, Hovercraft.jpg)

File: 1697241795174-1.png (1.08 MB, 1792x1009, Infiltrator - 5.png)

File: 1697241795174-2.png (1.23 MB, 1280x720, Blast - 4.png)

File: 1697241795174-3.jpg (110.68 KB, 640x960, MRD - 7.jpg)

File: 1697241795174-4.jpg (104.31 KB, 865x505, Explosion.jpg)

>>2548
>As the MRD Hovercraft get closer to the hooded figures - they begin speaking over the intercom broadcast system in their speakers.

"You are trespassing on MRD property. Under Section C of the Meta-Human Enforcement Act, we have expressed authority to arrest you, if you do not comply with our demands."

>The other MRD Hovercraft beside the speaking Hovercraft then picks up from their compatriot.

"Lay down on the ground and prepare for arrest! Do not make any sudden movements!"

>Silent for a moment, the hooded figures look at each other.

"………."

"…….."

"…………."

"……."

"…………."

>The hooded figures then immediately begin channeling purple light and energy from their hands - blasting the Hovercraft vehicles and causing them to crash to the ground.

"Shit! Evac!"

"I knew it was't gonna be this easy!"

>The MRD agents then eject from their seats and parachute to the ground below - as their Hovercraft vehicles go down in flames.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:09:56 No.2550

File: 1697242195774-0.png (232.53 KB, 300x631, MRD - 10.png)

File: 1697242195774-1.jpg (176.9 KB, 640x1046, Thrasher - 10.jpg)

File: 1697242195774-2.jpg (69.07 KB, 1400x700, Faust - 3.jpg)

File: 1697242195774-3.gif (1.91 MB, 500x279, Punch.gif)

File: 1697242195774-4.gif (1.8 MB, 320x239, Punch - 4.gif)

>>2549
>On the ground, the MRD agents take out their weapons and begin to engage in combat with the hooded figures.

"Shit! Get Thrasher out of here! Now!"

>The MRD platoon leader orders his troops to do so - only for them all to stop moving.

"What the-"

"Who-"

"When did he get here?!"

>All of the MRD agents turn around and look to find a black clad figure with a hood and a mask staring them down.

>Standing merely feet away from them, the black clad figure then begins laughing softly to himself.

"Oh, there you are. I've been looking for you."

>Confused, Thrasher snaps at the figure.

"Who the fuck are you, dickhead?"

>Faust then falls silent for a moment.

"I'm me, boss. Don't you recognize me?"

>Thrasher narrows his eyes for a moment at the figure as he analyzes him. Then, with a stunned look on his face, he then mutters to himself:

"…..Phobos?"

>Faust laughs softly as he then speaks:

"It's Faust now, boss. I've gotten a promotion so to speak."

>Immediately, Thrasher shoves the MRD agents out of the way with his immense super strength - knocking them into MRD Hovercraft vehicles and rendering them unconscious from the sheer force of the blows.

"I don't give a fuck what you are! You're dead meat for ratting me out to the MRD!"

>Thrasher then punches Faust in the face with enough force to send the entirety of the combat zone into disarray. MRD agents and armored assailants are both knocked dozens of feet into the air by the sheer air pressure and force of Thrasher's strike.

>However, Faust remains standing in place - unfazed. As Thrasher's fist remains lodged firmly into Faust's mask, it doesn't even register a slight impression on the material's surface.

"What's wrong, boss?"

>Thrasher looks up at Faust in utter shock - as a rare display of emotion fills his face immediately.

"Cat got your tongue?"

>Faust then palm strikes Trasher in the face - sending him flying backwards with such force as to cause an even bigger shockwave.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:16:31 No.2551

File: 1697242590718-0.png (360.28 KB, 413x549, Thrasher - 5.png)

File: 1697242590718-1.gif (2.7 MB, 636x270, Punch.gif)

File: 1697242590718-2.jpg (234.59 KB, 1400x2075, Faust.jpg)

File: 1697242590718-3.jpg (110.68 KB, 640x960, MRD - 7.jpg)

File: 1697242590718-4.gif (1.98 MB, 500x281, Speed - 3.gif)

>>2550
>Thrasher's immediately back on his feet, due to his unimaginably fast regeneration abilities. As he heals from the light scratches that he's taken, the Meta-Human can't help but dwell on the emotion that slowly manifested itself on his face - fear.

"Well? Out of tactics yet?"

>Faust says, dusting his gloved hands off as he stands - ready for Thrasher to attack him.

>Irritated, Thrasher then places his hands into the cement of the road below him - immediately upturning the entire structure - sending all of the MRD agents into the air as he does so.

>Dozens of MRD agents are then left helpless - flying hundreds of meters into the air, and counting. Meanwhile, down below, the hooded figures have seemingly kept themselves grounded with a supernatural form of aid.

>Faust then speaks up, musing as he does so.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you, Thrasher. I have a new group of acquaintances now. They're far more sophisticated than you - and they all share a little bit of my power. Because that's what a real leader does. They demonstrate strength in a focused and refined way."

>Thrasher looks at Faust, scoffing as he states:

"I don't give a shit what you've done. You're getting sent to an early grave."

>Suddenly, a blur of speed appears in the air - red and blue in color. The streak of mass quickly moves to capture all of the MRD agents - bringing them down to the ground safely, miles away.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:26:41 No.2552

File: 1697243200729-0.jpg (176.9 KB, 640x1046, Thrasher - 10.jpg)

File: 1697243200729-1.jpg (128.31 KB, 1600x1589, Faust - 2.jpg)

File: 1697243200729-2.jpeg (177.05 KB, 850x1095, Valkyrie - 4.jpeg)

File: 1697243200729-3.gif (6.07 MB, 636x264, Iso Dimension - 2.gif)

>>2551
>Both Thrasher and Faust look up at the figure who's come to a halt right before them both. Now hovering in the air, the figure of Valkyrie presides over them both - hands pressed together as she cracks her gloved knuckles.

"You're behind schedule on your transfer to maximum security lockup, Thrasher."

>Valkyrie notices Thrasher's glower and stare of sheer hatred at her - before turning her attention to Faust.

"As for you? I've got no idea who the hell you are - but you're interfering in MRD conduct. A violation of Section C of the-"

>Faust waves the woman off with a casual hand motion.

"You're not my target, blondie. Make for Beverly Hills while you've still got the chance."

>Irritated, Valkyrie takes her cue to respond.

"Well, that settles it. You're both coming in for processing."

>Valkyrie then moves at superhuman speeds - rushing towards Thrasher and Faust.

>In that moment however, Faust snaps his fingers - as the world seemingly shifts around them. A large fractal appears, seemingly wrapping itself around the entirety of the city. The distortion pattern catches Valkyrie by surprise - as she finds herself in an eerily similar copy of Sanctuary City.

"What the?!?! What…."

>Valkyrie looks around - confused.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:35:21 No.2553

File: 1697243720012-0.png (649.15 KB, 1000x438, Sanctuary City - 3.png)

File: 1697243720012-1.png (2.04 MB, 738x2375, Arachnid.png)

File: 1697243720012-2.gif (999.38 KB, 500x250, Punch - 2.gif)

File: 1697243720012-3.jpg (93.52 KB, 746x1070, Thrasher.jpg)

File: 1697243720012-4.png (1.24 MB, 852x1136, Crater - 2.png)

>>2552
>Back in Sanctuary City - Thrasher looks confused as both Faust and Valkyrie have disappeared. Shrugging, he then says to himself:

"Whatever. Now to get the hell out of here- mmppphhh!!!"

>Suddenly, Thrasher feels a large clump of webbing appears on his mouth. As he stumbles backwards in surprise, a voice speaks before him.

"What? You thought I was gonna just let you roam free?"

>Confused, Thrasher looks up - and then finds himself seeing pure red as he recognizes his assailant.

>Sitting on a toppled MRD Hovercraft, Arachnid waves cheekily at Thrasher - clearly taunting him with his gesture.

"Look how much more communicative you've become - when someone's shut your mouth. Very counter-intuitive, I know!"

>Irritated, Thrasher picks up a car and tosses it at Arachnid. The latter then moves at blinding speeds - flipping up into the air as he webs onto a car.

"Ah ah ah! Manners!"

>With blinding speed, Arachnid then slams the car back into Thrasher's face - watching as he stumbles backwards slightly.

"You little shit! Get down here- OOF!"

>Arachnid is then right in front of Thrasher, punching him directly in the gut with enough force to make him crumple. As he steps backwards and drops to his knees - completely out of breath and coughing profusely, Thrasher looks bewildered.

"What the?!?! GYAH! How are you…ACK! How the fuck are you so…"

>Arachnid looks at his gloved hand.

"Strong? Lots of protein, really. Veggies too."

>Before Thrasher can react, Arachnid hits Thrasher over the head with a double overhead fist strike - slamming him into the ground of the pavement - and into a large crater.

>Looking back up, Arachnid then activates the comms link in his helmet.

"Boss, you should really get over here, ASAP. One of the guys here? I think you know him….."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:45:08 No.2554

File: 1697244307042-0.png (295.14 KB, 540x304, Sanctuary City - 2.png)

File: 1697244307042-1.jpg (580.48 KB, 1536x2048, Valkyrie - 5.jpg)

File: 1697244307042-2.jpg (302.29 KB, 900x842, Telepathy - 2.jpg)

File: 1697244307042-3.jpg (100 KB, 640x480, Spire.jpg)

File: 1697244307042-4.jpg (1.94 MB, 5323x2200, Lobby.jpg)

>>2553
>Valkyrie continues to fly around in the distorted space of the alternate Sanctuary City.

"What is this place?!"

>As she continues flying, Valkyrie notices that no people exist in this alternate version of the city. Buildings, vehicles and infrastructure still remain - but all humans and pets have disappeared. There are no signs of life in this area - which unnerves her even more.

"Where'd you go, grim reaper?!"

>Coming to a stop in mid-air, Valkyrie looks over the city for a moment, scanning it with her eyes. She then hears the disembodied voice of the figure from before, as he starts laughing.

"Keep searching, kitty cat. Maybe you'll find me. Or maybe I'll come to you."

>Irritated, Valkyrie continues flying around the city at superhuman speeds, checking every nook and cranny of the surface area. As she does so, she then thinks to herself.

{"Whoever this guy is. He's bad news. Clearly not a Meta-Human. Not sure what I'm in for here."}

>After around 30 minutes of searching, Valkyrie comes to a halt once more, irritated. She's searched the entire city hundreds of times, possibly thousands given her maximum speed.

{"This isn't working! I need a different approach."}

>Realizing that the city is a distortion of the existing one, Valkyrie then decides to tap into her latent psionic abilities. Reaching out with a powerful psionic burst.

{"Keep focusing, Diana. Just focus….."}

>As she does so, Valkyrie realizes that she can lock onto residual psychic traces - portions of a sentient mind and only a lone sentient mind in the area.

{"There!"}

>Valkyrie then rushes off - towards a specific area of the city.

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

>After a few moments, Valkyrie's arrived at her destination.

"What in the world? Why here?!"

>In front of the MRD Spire, Valkyrie then narrows her eyebrows as she flies through the building's interior - breaking through it with her bare fists.

>Now inside of the lobby, Valkyrie hears the disembodied voice of her target once again.

"Oh. Getting warmer now, Di. Keep going."

>Confused and slightly taken aback, Valkyrie asks herself a very important question.

{"What the- How does he know me?! Who is this guy?!"}

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 00:56:52 No.2555

File: 1697245011345-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1697245011345-1.jpeg (5.5 MB, 2480x3508, Valkyrie - 3.jpeg)

File: 1697245011345-2.jpg (232.86 KB, 985x704, TK.jpg)

File: 1697245011345-3.jpg (69.07 KB, 1400x700, Faust - 3.jpg)

File: 1697245011345-4.gif (943.47 KB, 320x320, Energy - 2.gif)

>>2554
>Valkyrie then moves to the upper floors of the MRD Spire - as the disembodied voice continues speaking.

"You know I was only bothering with this because of you, Di. At the start, that is."

>Still feeling uneasy, Valkyrie slowly walks up the steps, attempting to let the figure talk themselves into an open position to strike.

"It was a lot of work to climb as high as I did. But you didn't appreciate me. None of you did."

>Valkyrie's eyes narrow, as she continues walking.

"What else do I have to say? Hmm…..Well. It's a good thing that I waited. All of the bullshit that I endured. Then the decision to call it quits - and join up with the Brigadiers? Well. I'd say it was worth it in the end…."

>Suddenly, Valkyrie feels a cold shiver crawl up her spine as she realizes who's talking to her.

["Son of a bitch…."]

>She whispers softly, as her mind comes to the logical conclusion.

["Niles?"]

>Suddenly, Valkyrie is crashed into from the side - a blisteringly fast blur of black mass crashes her into a nearby table, gripping both of her hands as she does so.

"Right on the money!"

>Valkyrie begins shouting and struggling to remove herself from Faust's grip - as she's pressed onto the table. As she struggles to fight her attacker, she can't break free of his unnaturally strong grasp.

"You see, my new master gave me a pretty clear job. Prepare the world for his arrival. He didn't give me specifics though. So I figured that I'd take a little detour."

>Throwing Valkyrie to the side - Faust watches as she crashes into a wall of bookcases and office cabinets. As she falls to the ground, Valkyrie can only watch as Faust starts to slowly make his way towards her.

"Thrasher's a braindead idiot - but he's very good bait."

>A look of horror crosses Valkyrie's face as she slowly rises to one knee.

"…..You weren't there for him."

>Faust then rushes towards Valkyrie, faster than she can react. He then grabs her by the wrist with his arm - now causing her to scream in pain.

"GYYAAAHHHHH!!!!! What are you…..doing….to……me….."

>Valkyrie can feel her voice growing weaker and coarser as Faust laughs softly.

"Getting you softened up."

>Feeling weary and weak, Valkyrie realizes that her life force is being drained from her body.

"Weak for what-"

>Valkyrie's eyes then widen - as a look of genuine fear and terror crosses her face. She understands the implication.

"No….NO! GET AWAY FROM ME!"

>Valkyrie uses the last of her strength to teleport a short distance away - out of the office cubicles, but still in the area.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 01:06:23 No.2556

File: 1697245581402-0.jpg (147.94 KB, 2048x1365, Business Office.jpg)

File: 1697245581402-1.jpeg (1.31 MB, 1251x1770, Valkyrie.jpeg)

File: 1697245581402-2.jpg (234.59 KB, 1400x2075, Faust.jpg)

File: 1697245581402-3.gif (1.99 MB, 500x280, Punch - 2.gif)

File: 1697245581402-4.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

>>2555
>Valkyrie, now almost completely weakened, now scrambles to her feet. Walking through a different set of office cubicles in a floor above Faust - she scrambles to find something to help her fight back.

"Come on! Damnit! There's gotta be something here!"

>As Valkyrie continues scrambling to find an object to defend herself with - an item. Any weapon she can build - she then hears the footsteps.

>The door at the back end of the office opens - with Faust walking inside, slowly.

"There's no need to hide from me, Di."

>Faust begins walking forward into the office area - slowly tapping the nearby walls of the cubicles as he does so.

"I can take as long as I need to prepare the world for my master. That means I can have some fun with you first."

>Valkyrie remains entirely still, hiding under the desk of one of the cubicles - as she feels her breathing accelerate. Placing a hand to her mouth, she closes her eyes.

"You're not getting out of here either. You don't have the capabilities to breach a superstructure dimension like this."

>Valkyrie remains absolutely silent, as the footsteps grow closer.

"Besides. You'll have a lot to keep yourself preoccupied with. Given how you're going to be training a lot of soldiers soon. Aren't you?"

>Faust then laughs softly as he waits for the implication to kick in for Valkyrie.

>At this point, Valkyrie is softly crying. Weeping tears of fear and pain. The frustration in her voice has turned to complete and total despair as she then thinks loudly.

{"Please, God. If you're there. Help me. I don't care how - just don't let my life end like this. Please! I've never asked you for anything in my life!"}

>Faust then rounds the corner, towards the cubicle where Valkyrie is hiding as she finishes her thought.

{"Help me! God! Please! Help me! Help me! Help me out of this!"}

>Faust then lets out another soft chuckle as his voice gets closer to Valkyrie's.

"Hey, Niles."

>The voice of an unknown figure appears behind Faust, at the same time that they tap on Faust's shoulder.

"What-"

>Spinning around, Faust's eyes widen as he shouts:

"YOU-"

>Suddenly, Faust is sent flying out of the Spire building - rocketing hundreds of thousands of miles away with a sonic boom, powerful enough to rupture the entire city's foundation.

>The form of Mosaic stands in place - his fist still extended outward at an angle as heat and smoke emanates from his fist.

"Yeah. Me."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 01:10:06 No.2557

File: 1697245804684-0.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

File: 1697245804684-1.jpeg (5.5 MB, 2480x3508, Valkyrie - 3.jpeg)

File: 1697245804684-2.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

>>2556
>Valkyrie opens her eyes immediately - with tears streaming down her face. Looking up at Mosaic, she's a sobbing mess as she says:

"H-H-He was going to r-r-r-"

>Mosaic kneels down before Valkyrie and speaks.

"He's going to die before he so much as attempts that. Sorry I was late, Diana."

>Valkyrie then immediately gives Mosaic a hug, gripping him tightly as she then speaks in a mixture of whispers and sobs.

"H-H-He was g-g-going to t-t-trap me h-h-here f-f-forever! I don't want to be here! I want to go!"

>Mosaic then hugs Valkyrie back as he then responds.

"I know. I'm getting you out of here, and dealing with him. You're gonna be OK."

>Mosaic then presses two fingers to his helmet as he now holds onto Valkyrie. After a moment of concentration, he then disappears with Valkyrie in an instant.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 01:22:14 No.2558

File: 1697246533069-0.png (2.89 MB, 998x2000, Mosaic.png)

File: 1697246533069-1.jpeg (177.05 KB, 850x1095, Valkyrie - 4.jpeg)

File: 1697246533069-2.jpg (131.87 KB, 474x500, MRD.jpg)

File: 1697246533069-3.jpeg (84.57 KB, 800x800, Arachnid - 3.jpeg)

File: 1697246533069-4.jpg (128.31 KB, 1600x1589, Faust - 2.jpg)

>>2557
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown Sector
>Time: 12:30 PM

>Mosaic suddenly appears in the middle of the city streets - with Valkyrie in his arms. As he does so, a group of MRD agents rush over to them.

"Mosaic?! Why do you have Commander Valkyrie?!"

"We're going to need you to let go of her-"

>Valkyrie holds her hand up, her eyes still watery.

"Please! Stop! He's the one who saved me from……from……"

>Valkyrie then looks up in terror as she sees the figure now to dominate her future nightmares.

"From HIM!"

>Valkyrie points up at the hovering form of Faust in the air.

>As Valkyrie is about to be taken into the care of the MRD agents, she looks at Mosaic and makes one last gesture towards him.

"Thank you."

>Giving him a light kiss on the side of his mask, she then slowly allows herself to be escorted away by the MRD agents.

>Arachnid then swings into the area - landing beside Mosaic.

"Thanks for getting my message."

"No, I should be thanking you. If I was a moment slower - something far worse would've happened to her."

>Understanding the implication, Arachnid then looks at Mosaic.

"….Kick his ass, boss."

>Mosaic nods.

"Will do."

>Arachnid then backflips backwards onto a nearby car, ready to watch the altercation to come from a distance.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 01:30:15 No.2559

File: 1697247014129-0.jpg (151.69 KB, 736x1086, Mosaic - 24.jpg)

File: 1697247014129-1.jpeg (304.28 KB, 1920x1200, Space-Time.jpeg)

File: 1697247014129-2.png (1.23 MB, 1280x720, Blast - 4.png)

File: 1697247014129-3.png (192.35 KB, 540x277, Infiltrator - 4.png)

File: 1697247014129-4.jpg (128.31 KB, 1600x1589, Faust - 2.jpg)

>>2558
>As the stage is set, Faust then looks on, snarling.

"You're gonna pay for that-"

>Before he can finish his sentence, Mosaic punches Faust down into the streets below.

>As Faust is knocked into the ground, he finds that he can barely move. Pain covers his body as he attempts to move.

"What the….What….How…"

>Immediately, Faust's Infiltrators rush over to his aid.

>As Mosaic lowers to the ground, he then begins walking over to Faust's body - while the Infiltrators rush towards him.

>The Infiltrators attempt to attack Mosaic with purple energy blasts - however said energy blasts seemingly freeze before him. What's more, the energy blasts seem to move backwards as Mosaic walks forward.

>More Infiltrators appear, trying to strike him with large swords. As this happens - they too become stuck in place, shifting backwards as he moves forwards once more.

>Faust, still unable to stand, can only look up as he stares on in horror at the scene before him.

"…..Oh My God."

>Mosaic then stands before him - stating:

"Oh, that's right, Niles. You don't know."

>Waving his hand around, Mosaic says:

"Infinitus. A little spell I learned a while back. It creates a recursive space-time event around me that expands to an infinite range."

>Another energy blast tries to reach Mosaic - but hovers in place once more - as two Infiltrators try striking him with their fists, also hovering in place.

"Meaning, not much can hit me. Funny that."

>With the slightest finger gesture, Mosaic causes all of the blasts and the Infiltrators to get knocked backwards.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 02:05:51 No.2560

File: 1697249149919-0.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

File: 1697249149919-1.png (1.56 MB, 1920x1080, Space-Time - 2.png)

File: 1697249149919-2.jpg (128.31 KB, 1600x1589, Faust - 2.jpg)

File: 1697249149919-3.jpg (149.26 KB, 590x300, Mana Particles - 2.jpg)

File: 1697249149919-4.gif (1.95 MB, 350x215, Explosion - 4.gif)

>>2559
>Faust then slowly rises up to his feet, staggering backwards as he then shouts:

"To hell with this bullshit! I'm going to kill you, Mosaic!"

>Now finally able to step forward, Faust regains his strength and rushes towards Mosaic - attempting to punch him.

>However, much like the rest of the forces sent to fight him - Faust soon finds himself helplessly hovering in the air, his fist unable to connect with Mosaic's helmet.

"What?! Ngggh! This isn't supposed to happen!"

>Mosaic places his hands in his coat pockets as he slowly walks forward - pushing Faust back as he does so, while the latter is still frozen in his mid-air position.

"What's the matter, Niles? Out of words?"

>Faust looks on in frustration, unable to move - before Mosaic immediately slams him upward in the face, using a palm strike to do so.

"GYAH!"

>Mosaic then effortlessly and gracefully brings his right foot down back on the backside of Faust's neck - slamming him into the concrete again.

>Faust then coughs up blood, struggling to catch himself as he begins crawling away from Mosaic - panicked and fearful as he does so.

"Now how does it feel, Faust? To be so helpless in the face of your opposition?"

>Faust continues crawling away slowly, as Mosaic follows him with his hands now in his coat pockets again.

>Mosaic then leans down and grabs Faust up by the back of his cloak - dragging him into the air to hover in front of Mosaic's outstretched hand.

"I thought so."

>Mosaic then whispers an incantation so faintly that Faust can't even hear it. After a few moments, Faust is then slowly dissolved as a massive array of rainbow particles begin to manifest around him and swarm him.

>Standing backwards, Mosaic watches as Faust screams in pain, shouting in an ethereal voice.

"What did you do to me?!?!"

>Mosaic calmly responds.

"Kicked you out of this plane of existence. I'm not sure if I can destroy your soul - but I can do the next best thing. Kick you out of here forever. Have fun, Niles. It's been nice stomping your face in again!"

>Mosaic waves mockingly at Faust, as he screams into nothingness - disappearing in a burst of magical energy all the way.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 02:13:04 No.2561

File: 1697249582709-0.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697249582709-1.png (161.91 KB, 317x536, Infiltrator - 6.png)

File: 1697249582709-2.jpeg (5.5 MB, 2480x3508, Valkyrie - 3.jpeg)

File: 1697249582709-3.jpeg (121.72 KB, 960x640, Arachnid - 4.jpeg)

File: 1697249582709-4.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

>>2560
>As Faust disappears, so too do his Infiltrators. Mosaic watches as they slowly fade out of existence - before turning his back towards their fading visages.

"All in a day's work I suppose. Now to deal with his creator."

>Mosaic is about to finish placing two of his fingers on his helmet to transmit himself away - before he hears a voice running up to him.

"Hey! Mosaic!"

>Valkyrie then quickly flies over - still amazed and stunned at Mosaic's latest fight.

"Oh. Commander Valkyrie. Good to see that you're alright."

>Still shaken somewhat, Valkyrie nods - as her strength has mostly replenished. Looking up anxiously at the area where Faust was before, she then turns back to Mosaic.

"Is he….?"

>Mosaic then interjects.

"Gone, permanently? Yes. Niles is, at least. If Faust ever comes back, then his creator will have to find a new corpse that's suitable."

>Confused, Valkyrie then shakes off the statement before speaking again.

"….I just wanted to say - thank you. I have something that I need to show you whenever you're finished. It's urgent."

>Nodding, Mosaic then states:

"Right, thanks for the notice. I'm off to deal with the one behind this. See you soon, commander."

>Valkyrie nods and takes a step back - watching as Arachnid jumps into the area, landing before Mosaic.

"You're gonna go deal with the freaky cosmic dude behind this, right?"

>Mosaic looks at Arachnid and nods - stating.

"Wasn't sure if I was able to before. But now? I'm just like you, Arachnid. Growing exponentially stronger each passing day it seems."

>Mosaic then gives Arachnid a thumbs up, before finishing his energy signature detection. With his target found, he then disappears in an instant.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 02:27:14 No.2562

File: 1697250433224-0.jpg (475.74 KB, 1920x1080, Alt!Dimension - 2.jpg)

File: 1697250433224-1.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697250433224-2.jpg (234.59 KB, 1400x2075, Faust.jpg)

File: 1697250433224-3.jpg (764.47 KB, 2000x2829, Nyrian.jpg)

File: 1697250433224-4.gif (1.95 MB, 350x215, Explosion - 4.gif)

>>2561
>Location: Dusk Dimension [Earth-0 Junction]
>Time: TBD

>Within the vast expanse of the esoteric plane of existence, large plumes of black hellfire sprout from the cores of large planets. The bright green stars seemingly invert the production of heat and energy - absorbing it from their surroundings, instead of producing it as normal stars would.

>Sitting atop a massive stone throne, a figure with a black outfit and a spectral flame for a head sits impatiently. Waiting for a response from his emissary, the figure sighs.

"Yet another subject has failed me again, it seems."

>In that moment, Faust appears in the Dusk Dimension - coughing up black blood as he barely catches himself and his bearings.

"L-Lord Nyrian! I have failed you! Please! Spare me!"

>Nyrian looks on from his throne, annoyed. Narrowing his eyes, he then states:

"Impudent buffoon. Moron. You have brought him to my very doorstep, have you not?"

>Confused, Faust then says:

"W-What?! What do you mean?! I have brought no such danger to your abode-"

>Suddenly, Faust feels a rupture of energy coming from his chest - realizing that he's been attacked from behind.

"Y-You?!?!"

>Behind Faust, standing a few feet away - is Mosaic. He lifts up his enemy with a swift gesture of two fingers - raising Faust into the air as he states:

"Omnes Interitus!"

>In that moment, reality, as well as Dusk Dimension itself seem to both collapse in on Faust - rapidly. Before Faust can react - he's ripped apart by a similar magical explosion - only far more violent in strength and force this time.

>As the dust settles, only the ashes and embers of dark flame remain on the ground of the asteroid.

>Nyrian sighs as he rests his cheek on his hand - sitting on his throne.

"Another useless piece of fodder, and another plan foiled."

>Still noticing Mosaic standing there silently, he then annoyingly asks:

"Well? Are you going to bargain with me for your own gain? Do you seek my power? A contract?"

>Mosaic stands in place, crossing his arms.

"No, I just want you dead, candle wick."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 02:35:21 No.2563

File: 1697250920030-0.jpg (575.93 KB, 1300x751, Mosaic - 25.jpg)

File: 1697250920030-1.jpg (131.37 KB, 1280x720, Nyrian - 3.jpg)

File: 1697250920030-2.gif (1.97 MB, 500x281, Magic - 4.gif)

File: 1697250920030-3.jpg (927.22 KB, 2048x2048, Sun.jpg)

File: 1697250920030-4.jpg (112.4 KB, 600x600, Magic Rune.jpg)

>>2562
>Nyrian laughs as he rises up from his throne. Now towering over Mosaic by a difference of a few feet, he then looks down at the figure before him.

"….You would challenge me? A mere mortal?"

>Laughing hysterically, Nyrian places a hand to his forehead - despite it being a literal flame.

"I am Nyrian of the Dusk Dimension! The oldest and greatest of the Arcanum Majoris! You will not continue this affront to my strength-"

>Cutting Nyrian off, Mosaic then interjects.

"I know exactly what you are. You're a magical wallflower that never got scrubbed clean from the garden. You're a glorified tumbleweed."

>Enraged, Nyrian immediately accesses his magical strength - detonating the asteroid that both of them are on, and now growing in size to stand dozens of meters in height. His voice grows louder as he does so.

"Insolent fool! I am the strongest of the natural magical phenomena that your universe could ever witness! My very presence would shatter the feeble minds of your ilk!"

>Still crossing his arms, Mosaic then looks at the towering figure of the dark magical being.

"Then why am I not impressed?"

>Irritated, Nyrian then teleports the nearby star directly onto Mosaic - a main sequence star with enough stellar mass to implode a solar system.

>Nyrian looks on in satisfaction - until he sees Mosaic casually drawing the entire star's mass into his body.

"What?! No!"

>As the star rapidly shrinks in size, Mosaic compacts it within the space of his hands - before pressing it into himself.

"Hmm. No too shabby, right?"

>Nyrian then fumes in anger, as he then casts a flurry of high level spells at Mosaic.

>The dark lord tosses cosmic transmutation spells at Mosaic - which warp the fabric of reality to create impossibly hot and cold quasars at his enemy.

>He then continues this onslaught by throwing entire walls of anti-matter at Mosaic, compacted into the size of a star as well.

>Mosaic makes hand gestures, quickly providing the necessary counter spells and wards - in conjunction with his Infinitus spell.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 02:46:20 No.2564

File: 1697251579280-0.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

File: 1697251579281-1.gif (1.95 MB, 350x215, Explosion - 4.gif)

File: 1697251579281-2.jpg (478.65 KB, 1016x1143, Eldritch Being.jpg)

File: 1697251579281-3.jpg (131.37 KB, 1280x720, Nyrian - 3.jpg)

File: 1697251579281-4.jpg (592.55 KB, 1600x1244, Distortion - 2.jpg)

>>2563
>Further enraged, Nyrian begins channeling the entirety of the Dusk Dimension's energies into his body.

>The culmination of an infinite series of energies begins to coalesce from Nyrian - as every corner of the ever-expanding infinite plane of the Dusk Dimension begins to rapidly and violently contract itself. The dimension itself begins to actively implode, as a result of Nyrian taking its energy of expansion away.

>Using all of the energy of the dimension that sustains him to fuel his attacks, Nyrian returns the offensive.

"I will vanquish you from my domain, insect! Then once I have rendered your body non-existent! I will claim your soul as my own!"

>Nyrian then attacks Mosaic with a massive barrage of miniature Eldritch beings - each of them capable of seemingly breaking a galaxy by simply existing. The sheer strength of their higher dimensional presence should have an impact on Mosaic - yet it doesn't.

>Mosaic, in reality, has answered back with an equally powerful pressure wave - if not more potent in strength. As the sheer force of his natural spiritual pressure begins to emanate from his body, a bright red symbol flashes across his eyes behind his helmet.

"Of all the Arcana. The Ten Heavenly Magics….How….?! HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!?!"

>The Eldtrich beings are then evaporated by Mosaic's sheer spiritual pressure alone - rapidly draining the dimension's integrity as he does so.

>Stunned by this, Nyrian then states his utter shock.

"…Here I had thought only the Sorcerers Supreme to be the only true threat to my domain! How….How do you harbor the strength to resist an entire plane of existence, mortal?!?! HOW?!?!"

>Silent for a moment, Mosaic then makes a series of quick drawing gestures with his finger, before revealing a fundamental truth to Nyrian.

"You were never worth a serious effort from the Sorcerers Supreme. As you are so below their level of power, it wasn't even worth it to them - to end your existence. So I'm doing them a favor - by getting rid of you once and for all."

>Nyrian then attempts to retreat - pressing the entirety of the Dusk Dimension's physical space in front of Mosaic - creating an infinitely recurring series of dimensional overlaps - similar to Mosaic's own Infinitus spell.

"Oh that little trick? I appreciate the effort, but you're forgetting one thing 'Dark Lord'."

>Mosaic flies forward, making another series of gestures with one of his hands.

"Infinitus! Immensa et sine forma, mea potentia est!"

>The space between the dimension and the infinite recursion loop begins to unwind itself rapidly - as space begins folding on and shattering itself.

>This process becomes so violent, that entire actualities begin to appear within the Dusk Dimension.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:03:56 No.2565

File: 1697252635461-0.png (2.89 MB, 998x2000, Mosaic.png)

File: 1697252635461-1.jpg (285.36 KB, 551x561, Magister - 56.jpg)

File: 1697252635461-2.png (846.56 KB, 683x1253, Nyrian - 2.png)

File: 1697252635461-3.jpg (149.26 KB, 590x300, Mana Particles - 2.jpg)

File: 1697252635461-4.gif (1.95 MB, 350x215, Explosion - 4.gif)

>>2564
>Mosaic then witnesses the real time appearance of various other people, across various other universes.

>Taken aback, Mosaic sees his Sorcerer Supreme counterpart from another Earth - Magister.

>He then sees a man with identical dark hair, but wearing glasses. The man appears to be standing on a rooftop in New York City.

>Another shattered image of reality shows another universe - where Mosaic then sees another man in a proper uniform, sheathing a sword.

>Once more, a universe appears - showcasing a familiar looking man, sitting on a throne while wearing a regal outfit with a crown about to be placed on his head.

"…..This is the Junction Point between myself and my counterparts. Must've reacted to my power when I accessed it."

>Confused, Nyrian stares at the image of Magister - before now becoming terrified even more so.

"What?! You are….related to him?! The Sorcerer Supreme?!?! No….Nonononononono! NO! ABSCOND FROM MY DOMAIN AT ONCE!"

>With a final effort, Nyrian gathers all of the energy left within the Dusk Dimension - hurtling it towards Mosaic in the form of a combined spatial distortion - violently shifting the entire 3-D space of the Dusk Dimension apart.

>Making one more set of gestures, Mosaic manifests a bright red rune - which spins rapidly in place to project a funnel of energy. That funnel then gives way to a faint glow on Mosaic's finger.

>The glow then grows brighter and brighter, as a powerful multicolored light begins emanating from his finger - from the Thaumaturgy Ring.

"Miraculum Magicae! Obsecro te! Fiat voluntas mea! Fieri re!"

>Mosaic then makes one final gesture with his hand - before blasting out a truly massive surge of magical energy. The surge of magical energy is so potent and so powerful, that it effectively destroys the entirety of the dimension - despite its infinite contraction and weaponization against him.

>As the dimension itself ruptures apart into nothingness, Nyrian is hit with the full force of the magical blast - to such a degree that his very form begins to break down on an immaterial level.

>As Nyrian's collapsing and decaying body begins to slowly hover in the middle of nothingness - he remains stunned and in disbelief.

"No….No! I was supposed to be great! I was supposed to be powerful!"

>Mosaic then appears before Nyrian's decaying body - striking his fiery head with his gloved palm as he grabs onto him, lifting him up.

"All you are is fuel for those with actual strength. Consider this penance for everything that you've done. Now disappear."

>Mosaic then finishes the blast - wiping Nyrian's body away, as well as his metaphysical essence. As a being comprised of pure magic - Mosaic then reaches out and begins absorbing the being's energy.

>As he coalesces the energy into himself, Mosaic then states:

"The fault line in reality is now corrected - the divergence caused by your existence. As such, your power is now mine."

>Another bright flash of magical energy appears to surround Mosaic - as he easily absorbs the full force and power of Nyrian's energies, making them his own.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:12:06 No.2566

File: 1697253125203-0.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697253125203-1.jpeg (92.65 KB, 800x600, Space.jpeg)

File: 1697253125203-2.png (139.34 KB, 1094x731, Dimension.png)

File: 1697253125203-3.jpg (423.71 KB, 2560x1440, Earth View.jpg)

File: 1697253125203-4.jpg (23.46 KB, 630x630, Power Imprimatur - 3.jpg)

>>2565
>Now hovering alone in an all-too-familiar empty space, Mosaic looks up across the infinite expanse of nothingness. In that moment, he then says out loud:

"No. You exist as you were before - but changed for the better."

>The utterance of Mosaic's words suddenly causes reality around him to shift - instantaneously and without a split second, the expanse of the void is now a bright and vibrant universe of saturated colors.

>While similar to the Dusk Dimension, the colors are no longer muted, but are instead now bright and vivid. Heavy color saturation fills the area - as the infinite expanse of the void, has now become an entirely new dimension.

>Boundless in size as before, the dimension now begins to rapidly populate itself with sentient life - more natural and tame, as opposed to the twisted Eldritch abominations that had populated Nyrian's Dusk Dimension before.

>As he stands in place - hovering over all of the creation before him, Mosaic then lets out a satisfied sigh.

"Omnis Potents. Ego Sum Vis."

>Behind Mosaic's mask, his eyes glow a bright red - with the same red symbol appearing as before.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:18:51 No.2567

File: 1697253530404-0.jpg (737.68 KB, 2560x1600, Sanctum - 7.jpg)

File: 1697253530404-1.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697253530404-2.jpeg (207.01 KB, 1443x2048, Aiden - 53.jpeg)

File: 1697253530404-3.jpg (31.38 KB, 300x407, Doctor - 20.jpg)

>>2566
>Location: Axiom - Nexus of Magic

>Aiden continues sitting on the couch, still in his Mosaic garb. His helmet is off, however, allowing his snow white hair and sunglasses to be seen.

"So, how are you feeling?"

>Looking across from him at the table in the living room - Aiden sees the visage of Doctor, the Sorcerer Supreme of his world.

>Thinking for a moment, Aiden then says:

"About how you'd expect. A bit hollow, but with a bit of satisfaction as well."

>Doctor nods as he then places down a series of unique arcane sigils - each inscribed onto a small token.

"You've destroyed your first magical 'God'. Congratulations."

>Scoffing slightly, Aiden then says:

"It's not that impressive."

>Doctor raises an eyebrow behind his mask.

"Destroying an infinite expanse of magical energy isn't impressive? Entire magical societies would struggle to even fathom what you've done."

>Still crossing his arms over his legs as he leans forward, Aiden looks at Doctor.

"You could've done it with a snap of your fingers."

"But you did the same. Yes, it would've taken Stephanie or I even less effort - but you should be proud of yourself, Aiden. You're beginning to realize your potential."

>Aiden then leans back into his chair.

"About that. My potential. What exactly makes you so confident that I'm not at my limit?"

>Doctor then sips a drink from his glass - before stating the obvious.

"Because I can sense it. As boundless as it is, you and the rest of our posse aren't quite the same as the rest."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:26:37 No.2568

File: 1697253995418-0.jpg (737.68 KB, 2560x1600, Sanctum - 7.jpg)

File: 1697253995418-1.jpeg (4.57 MB, 2480x3507, Mosaic - 21.jpeg)

File: 1697253995418-2.jpeg (211.77 KB, 1379x2048, Aiden - 55.jpeg)

File: 1697253995418-3.jpg (421.03 KB, 1280x1717, Doctor - 5.jpg)

File: 1697253995418-4.jpg (1.3 MB, 1800x2000, Isaac - 18.jpg)

>>2567
>Aiden then looks around for a moment, before noticing his shoulder pads in the periphery of his vision. Sighing once more, he then states:

"I believe you. But I'm also wishing you weren't right."

>Doctor leans back himself into his chair, responding immediately and succinctly to Aiden's rhetorical statement.

"Because you're afraid that you're going to lose your humanity if you get even stronger."

>Silent for a moment, Doctor then continues.

"It's lonely at the top, isn't it Aiden?"

>Aiden nods slowly, sighing one final time before he looks up at Doctor.

"Isaac, can I ask you something? Honestly."

>Doctor nods.

"Of course."

>Aiden then says:

"….Am I even really a 'hero' at this point? I've inadvertently messed up so many times."

"Yet you're still here - and people are still alive because of you. People are in better states due to your intervention. Most recently, your associate. Valkyrie, for instance. I'd say that would suffice - as an adherence to the definition of 'hero'. "

>Taking a moment to ponder the statement, Aiden then gives a soft laugh.

"….Yeah, fair enough. Thanks, Isaac."

>Doctor nods.

"Of course. Stephanie should be here soon. Do you want to stay for some food? I'll cook."

>Aiden thinks for a moment before he then says:

"…..That's up to her, not me."

>Doctor sighs in sadness, removing his mask as he then starts looking at Aiden.

"Aiden, you know that we've all moved on from that. Stop punishing yourself over it."

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:47:36 No.2569

File: 1697255255430-0.jpeg (73.71 KB, 707x1000, Aiden - 61.jpeg)

File: 1697255255430-1.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

File: 1697255255430-2.png (145.11 KB, 914x875, Isaac - 16.png)

File: 1697255255430-3.jpg (737.68 KB, 2560x1600, Sanctum - 7.jpg)

>>2568
>Aiden thinks intently for a moment, before he then speaks.

"….I'll give you an answer by the end of the day, if that helps."

>Isaac smiles and responds.

"Of course. That's more than fine. Take your time."

>Aiden nods and stands up, as Isaac speaks again.

"Oh and Aiden?"

>Aiden turns around to face Isaac once more.

"You did the right thing. Be proud of yourself for that."

>Aiden nods once again.

"Thanks Isaac."

>Isaac nods back.

"As I said, anytime."

>Aiden then places two fingers to his forehead and disappears instantaneously from the Axiom - leaving Isaac alone in the living room once more.

Event 10/14/23 (Sat) 03:59:16 No.2570

File: 1697255954873-0.jpg (185.02 KB, 924x671, Precinct.jpg)

File: 1697255954873-1.jpeg (4 MB, 2480x3508, Mosaic - 2.jpeg)

File: 1697255954873-2.jpeg (5.5 MB, 2480x3508, Valkyrie - 3.jpeg)

File: 1697255954873-3.gif (584.81 KB, 500x210, Flight - 2.gif)

File: 1697255954873-4.gif (897.59 KB, 500x215, Flight.gif)

>>2569
>Location: Sanctuary City - MRD Precinct
>Time: 5:30 PM

"You rang?"

>Valkyrie turns around to see Mosaic standing behind her - watching as she leans over the edge of the railing next to her office.

"Oh. You actually came."

>Mosaic walks up beside her, saying:

"Of course. I keep my word whenever I can."

>Valkyrie is silent for a moment, as she looks on at the city skyline before them both.

"….When I first started out as Valkyrie, I'll admit. I thought you were just another hardass running around in this city - trying to prove something."

>Mosaic is silent, as Valkyrie continues speaking.

"But, I can acknowledge when I'm wrong. You were doing your best to keep people safe. You do care about people - I can see that now."

>Putting his hands up, Mosaic then says:

"I'm just doing my job. What I can to help people."

>Turning around, Valkyrie then looks Mosaic dead in the eyes as she speaks.

"Yes, I can see that now."

>The air grows silent between the two of them, as Mosaic then pretends to cough into his gloved fist.

"Right, well. If you were here to give me your thanks, I do truly appreciate that. But I should be going, before-"

>Valkyrie then turns Mosaic around and then surprises him by leaning in - phasing through his mask in order to kiss him on the cheek directly.

>Startled slightly, Mosaic then waits as Valkyrie moves herself back.

"There's my appreciation, hero."

>Valkyrie's cheeks are flushed red as she then looks away, off to the side.

"I know you're pretty close to that Andromeda woman, so I won't get in the way. But you were there at the Wedge. You were there during the Turf War. You were even there for me now in that alternate world. Every single time I've needed help - you've been there."

>Mosaic is silent once more, before he then speaks up.

"Well, as I said. It's my job. I'll do it as well as I can, to ease up the burden on you. It's the right thing to do."

>Valkyrie just stares into Mosaic's deep red visor with a wistful expression.

["God, that woman is lucky. You're an even better person than Chase is. Remind me of how he used to be."]

>She mutters to herself, reflexively biting her lip.

>Out loud, she then sighs and exhales, giving Mosaic a resigned shrug as she speaks.

"Alright then, go be the hero, Mosaic. I'll be right here with you - whenever you need me."

>Valkyrie says, giving him a wink before she turns around to look beyond the railing once more.

>At that moment, Mosaic then replies.

"I will. Always. See you around."

>Mosaic then blasts off into the air at unfathomable speeds - whereas Valkyrie isn't phased. She's too busy staring at his outline as he leaves into the distance.

["Thanks for helping me believe in heroes again."]

>Valkyrie says to herself, as she watches the faint outline of Mosaic's form disappear into the sunset sky above the city.

[The End]