You eagerly accepted Steve and Barnes' invitation and followed them to a nearby nightclub. As you stepped inside, the vibrant atmosphere engulfed you, with the club pulsating with people seeking excitement and indulgence. Moving alongside Steve and Barnes, you made your way to the counter where the bartender handed you the drink that Steve had ordered for you. Downing the beverage in one swift motion, you felt the familiar warmth spreading through you. The bartender promptly refilled your glass, ensuring the libations continued to flow.
Engaging in conversation, Steve turned to you and asked, "So, Arex... What brought you here to join the army?"
"Actually," you replied, taking another sip from your drink, "I chose to join the Strategic Scientific Reserve, and I've been recruited as part of their newly established security forces." You paused briefly, contemplating your response. "Their goals align with my interests," you added, speaking the truth but leaving a part of it unspoken.
"Interesting," Barnes answered before Steve, his voice laced with intrigue. With a calculated sip from his drink, he then fixed his gaze upon you, studying your every detail from head to toe. "You're not from around here, are you?"
"No, I come from many places," you replied, a hint of mystery in your voice, as you lifted your glass for another sip. Before the three of you could delve further into conversation and unravel the enigma of your origins, destiny played its hand. The very thugs who had cornered Steve in the alleyway unexpectedly made their entrance into the bar. To make matters worse, their attention zeroed in on the three of you, leisurely enjoying your drinks.
The atmosphere instantly grew heavy, thick with tension and imminent danger. The conversation dwindled into a silence pregnant with unspoken words, each of you aware of the impending storm. Like the intertwining threads of a dark tapestry, your paths converged again within the confines of this unsuspecting establishment. The tranquility shattered, replaced by a sense of foreboding, as if the forces of fate conspired to orchestrate this encounter. Trouble had found you first, veiling the air with uncertainty and setting the stage for an inevitable clash.
The air crackled with tension as the leader of the thugs bellowed, his anger reverberating through the bar. With a forceful shove, he sent the unsuspecting customers scattering, clearing a path towards the three of you. Barnes, ready to rise and face the impending confrontation, was halted by your swift intervention.
In that precarious moment, you stepped forward, your voice calm amidst the brewing chaos. The weight of the situation rested upon your shoulders as you attempted to diffuse the escalating hostility. With a subtle touch of diplomacy, you offered a proposition that hovered delicately between peace and confrontation.
"Gentlemen, we've all had quite a long day today. How about I buy each of you a beer and we call it a day?" your words floated through the charged atmosphere, a thin thread of hope amid the brewing storm. The proposition hung in the air, its outcome uncertain, as you braced yourself for the thugs' response and the fate that awaited your peaceful resolution.
As the lead thug brazenly challenged you, his voice dripping with contempt, he stepped forward with an air of misplaced confidence. His outstretched hands aimed to deliver a powerful shove, intending to assert dominance. However, his futile attempts became evident as he failed to budge you even an inch. Stumbling backward from the unexpected resistance, frustration consumed him, fueling his enraged cries. Undeterred, he made a second desperate attempt, only to meet the same resistance. The realization that you possessed an indomitable strength left him seething with impotent fury.
In a swift and calculated move, you clandestinely snapped your fingers from behind your back. The effect was immediate and profound. A wave of relaxation washed over the thugs, their rigid postures softening. The tension that had thickened the air dissipated, replaced by a newfound calmness.
Witnessing this remarkable transformation, you signaled the barkeep, a knowing nod passing between you. The drinks were to be prepared, a symbolic gesture of peace and camaraderie in the face of hostility. Though the thugs remained under your vigilant gaze, their departure became an inevitable consequence. One by one, they begrudgingly accepted your offer, exiting the establishment. Their retreat marked a quiet victory, a testament to your ability to navigate treacherous waters with grace and cunning.
As the last of the thugs vanished into the night, you turned to face Steve and Barnes, their expressions mirroring astonishment and awe. The unspoken question hung in the air, demanding an explanation for the astonishing display of power they had just witnessed.
"What was that?!" Steve's voice trembled with astonishment as he posed the question that echoed the sentiments etched across his face. The sight before him had ignited a curiosity that begged for answers, yearning to unravel the enigma of your capabilities.
"Oh, I have my way around people." Nonchalantly, you brushed off Steve's inquiry, a casual demeanor masking the depths of your abilities. With a seemingly effortless motion, your hand reached out to grasp the drink placed upon the table, as if seeking solace in the familiar comfort of the glass.
Barnes, ever perceptive, cast his gaze upon your hand, curiosity tugging at his senses. His question hung in the air, an invitation for you to disclose the nature of the ethereal spectacle that adorned your palm. As your eyes followed his gaze, a realization dawned upon you — the remnants of the golden inlay, an intricate manifestation of cosmic energy, still lingered, dancing faintly beneath the surface. It was a glimpse into the extraordinary.
Sensing the prying gazes from those around you, as well as the watchful eyes of Steve and Barnes, a swift decision propelled you into action. Closing your palm, you sought to conceal the enigmatic marks, allowing a veil of secrecy to shroud the mystique that surrounded you. The hushed breaths escaped your lips, drawing a calmness within as the lines of cosmic energy obediently faded away, merging back into the shadows from whence they emerged.
"It's nothing," you replied with practiced swiftness, concealing the truth behind a curt dismissal. Downing the remnants of your drink, a concoction of emotions mingled within you. With a quick farewell, gratitude laced your parting words, acknowledging the connection you had formed amidst the chaos. "It's been nice knowing you, but farewell for now. May our paths converge once more in the labyrinth of fate."
Stepping away from the table, you embarked on a purposeful journey through the room, each step leading you closer to the exit. A destination awaited you beyond these walls, pulling you into the obscurity of the side alley. As you disappeared into the night, heading homeward, the enigmatic aura that had accompanied your presence lingered in the air, leaving Steve and Barnes bewildered by the lingering mystery of your departure.
In the days that have passed since your last encounter with Steve and Barnes, your life has taken on a new rhythm within the Strategic Scientific Reserve. Assigned to the security team entrusted with safeguarding the brilliant mind of Chief Scientist Abraham Erskine, you have dutifully reported for duty day after day.
Yet, you can't help but compare this current role as a bodyguard to the exhilaration of hunting down the formidable Deviants. The excitement and danger of those missions now feel like distant echoes in your mind. Instead, the routine has settled upon you like a heavy shroud.
As the sun rises, casting a golden glow upon your assigned dorm, you awaken to greet another day. Donning your protective gear and ensuring your readiness, you approach Dr. Erskine's door, a knock signaling your arrival. With a sense of purpose, you become the steadfast guardian, escorting him to his lab.
Inside the lab, the air hums with scientific fervor, the atmosphere buzzing with the possibilities of Dr. Erskine's formula. While the esteemed scientist delves into his groundbreaking work, you stand watch outside the lab door, your presence an unyielding barrier against any threat that may arise.
The passage of time marks your day's end, and you witness the weariness etched upon Dr. Erskine's face as he exhales a sigh of resignation. It is a silent acknowledgement of the challenges faced and the obstacles encountered. With unwavering dedication, you guide him back to the solace of his quarters, providing a sense of security in an uncertain world.
As night falls, you find solace in the quiet moments, contemplating the cycle that repeats itself. The monotony is in stark contrast to the thrill of past endeavors, but you recognize the importance of this role. For within the seemingly mundane routine lies the protection of a brilliant mind and the potential to reshape the course of history.
And so, as darkness blankets the world, you rest, knowing that when the dawn breaks, you will rise once more to faithfully serve, embracing the familiarity of your duties as a guardian, until the tapestry of your days starts anew.
Within the clandestine corridors of the SSR, you had meticulously kept Ajak informed about everything transpiring. True to your commitment of "sharing everything," no detail had been spared, from the initial shock upon discovering Steve's name among the newly enlisted candidates for the super soldier program to the deep concern that gnawed at you after overhearing Dr. Erskine's struggles with the elusive formula.
Through the Prime connection that you shared, you conveyed your conviction to Ajak, your thoughts resonating through the ethereal sphere that connected the two of you. "I genuinely believe that Steve possesses all the qualities necessary to be an outstanding candidate for the serum," you conveyed, your words charged with certainty. "I have witnessed him embody the very essence of heroism, and I firmly believe he has the potential to lead humanity as a remarkable Super Soldier."
Ajak responded thoughtfully, her voice carried by the silent currents of telepathic communication. "In that case, it appears that our focus must now turn to perfecting the serum," she mused. "You mentioned that Dr. Erskine encounters difficulty in identifying the last vital ingredient?"
"Yes," you confirmed, the weight of your eavesdropped conversation with the army generals lingering in your mind. "I overheard a heated argument between Dr. Erskine and the military brass, revealing his struggle to pinpoint that elusive final component."
A brief pause settled upon the air, and for a few lingering moments, silence reigned. Just as you contemplated severing the telepathic connection, Ajak's voice resonated once again, breaking the stillness.
"When you find yourself in close proximity to the lab table," Ajak instructed, her words brimming with anticipation, "establish a connection with me. Allow me to delve deeper, to examine the intricacies of the situation firsthand."
It had been several weeks since your last conversation with Ajak, the passage of time stretching out between you. Tonight, after dutifully escorting Erskine back to his quarters, you slipped into your Eternal armor, its appearance shifting to a stealthy hue. With calculated precision, you navigated the intricate maze of corridors, evading the watchful eyes of the guards posted along your path. Finally, you found yourself standing once more in the familiar confines of the doctor's lab.
Reaching out with determination, you established the connection with Ajak, feeling her ethereal presence intertwine with your own consciousness. The golden glow emanating from your eyes was a testament to the profound connection shared between you.
"Okay, show me the formula," Ajak requested as you took purposeful steps closer to the table. But as you approached, a surge of astonishment coursed through you. The once pristine and meticulously organized surface had been transformed into a chaotic mess. Instruments were scattered haphazardly, papers were strewn about, and remnants of spilled substances hinted at an unexpected disruption.
Confusion etched its way onto your features as you surveyed the disarray before you. The carefully crafted order you had witnessed in this very room had been upended, leaving you with more questions than answers. In the midst of this unexpected scene, you couldn't help but wonder what had transpired in this once empty lab.
Ajak's voice echoed through the telepathic connection, her tone laced with concern. Together, you all came to the same conclusion.
(Someone was here…)
(Someone was here...) echoed through your mind, the shared realization between you and Ajak resonating deeply. Drawing upon the cosmic energy that flowed within you, you moved with determined purpose towards the safe where Dr. Erskine had safeguarded the precious formula. Anticipation mingled with dread as you approached, only to be met with a gut-wrenching sight.
To your horror, the safe stood violated, its contents pillaged and scattered. The remnants of Erskine's meticulous organization lay in disarray, a haunting testament to the intrusion that had taken place. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily upon you, for the formula, the key to the super soldier program, was now lost, its whereabouts a cruel mystery.
"The formula is gone!" you cried out inwardly, the frustration and anguish coursing through your being. Ajak's response came swiftly, her voice filled with urgency. "Hurry and check on Erskine!"
Without hesitation, you bolted out of the lab, propelled by a surge of adrenaline and the desperate need to protect the chief scientist. Every stride was fueled by the urgency of the moment, each passing second critical to Erskine's survival. Bursting through the door to his location, your heart sank at the sight before you.
A stranger, their identity shrouded in unfamiliarity, had Erskine ensnared within their vice-like grip, threatening to extinguish his very life force. Time seemed to stand still as you absorbed the gravity of the situation. The safety of Erskine and the fate of the super soldier program hung in the balance, demanding swift action and unwavering resolve.
"Who are you?" you demanded, your voice laced with both concern and determination. Quietly circling the scene, your senses keenly attuned to every detail, you sought a way to extricate Erskine from the perilous clutches of the stranger. The intruder turned, their German-styled attire now fully visible, but it was their eyes that held you captive—an eerie milky white haze veiled them, hinting at something otherworldly.
A surge of adrenaline coursed through your veins as you witnessed Erskine's labored breaths, the urgency to protect him intensifying. Drawing upon the primal forces of the elements within you, you tapped into the wellspring of your elemental power. The air around you quivered with anticipation as you focused your will. With a sweeping gesture, you conjured a tempestuous gust of wind, fueled by the energy of the storm. It materialized into a lethal blade, the ethereal weapon taking shape with the power to rend and slice through obstacles with the force of a hurricane.
With unwavering focus, you directed the elemental blade towards the German intruder, the very air crackling with energy as the weapon sliced through the space between you. Its sharp edge found its mark with devastating precision, the impact jolting the assailant, forcing them to release their grip on Erskine's fragile form. The raw power of the elements manifested in that moment, a testament to your connection with the forces of nature itself.
Seizing the opportune moment, you swiftly maneuvered towards the nearest window, urgency propelling each step. Through the transparent barrier, you peered out, breath catching in your throat as the astonishing truth unraveled before your very eyes. The German stranger, their true nature concealed until now, began to undergo a startling transformation. Their form shifted and contorted, assuming an appearance that surpassed the boundaries of your expectations, revealing something you never thought you would see again.
"You all right, Doc?" you inquired, your voice laden with genuine concern, as you hurried back to where the doctor stood, brushing off the remnants of the struggle.
"He took my incomplete formula for the serum!" Doc's voice rang out, an unwavering determination radiating from his every word. In his eyes, a fire burned, fueled by the urgency to give chase to the elusive thief. However, recognizing the potential danger that lay ahead, you swiftly intervened.
"Easy there, Doc," you cautioned, your voice tinged with a mix of reassurance and caution. "You're just going to break a bone if you jump from this height!"
But the doctor's resolve remained unyielding.
"I need to retrieve the formula!" he declared, his urgency palpable, each word spoken with unwavering conviction.
Your hand rested gently on his shoulder, a calming presence amidst the chaos.
"Doc, just let it go!" you implored, your voice filled with reason and a touch of compassion. "We will help you create the serum!"
"We?" Dr. Erskine asked, his voice laced with confusion and curiosity, his brow furrowing in perplexity.
"Hello, Dr. Erskine," Ajak's voice resonated with warmth and familiarity as she emerged gracefully from the shimmering portal that materialized behind your back. A sense of relief washed over you as you released your hold on the doctor, allowing Ajak to take her place beside you. The atmosphere seemed to hum with an otherworldly energy in her presence.
Dr. Erskine's eyes widened in astonishment, his gaze fixed on the portal that had materialized and now dissipated into nothingness. His astonishment mirrored the awe that reverberated within your own being. The sight of the portal, appearing and disappearing in a seemingly impossible display, challenged the boundaries of their understanding.
"Who... are you?!" Erskine exclaimed, his voice trembling with a mixture of astonishment and a tinge of fear.
"We are the Outcast on this planet," you answered, the words carrying a weight of significance. Ajak followed up, her voice soothing and reassuring. "And we're here to help you."
Ajak moved with purpose, her graceful strides guiding her towards the designated area where Dr. Erskine stored his meticulously arranged ingredients. The atmosphere crackled with an electric anticipation as she extended her right hand, the cosmic energy swirling and dancing within her palm. Both you and the doctor were captivated by the radiant display, the brilliance of the energy intensifying with each passing moment.
Instinctively, you recognized the potential danger inherent in such raw cosmic power. Your protective instincts kicked in, prompting you to position yourself diligently behind the doctor, ensuring his eyes remained shielded from the intense radiance. Your unwavering presence offered a reassuring barrier against any harm that may befall him in the face of this remarkable energy.
As Ajak skillfully manipulated the cosmic energy, her every movement deliberate and precise, you seized a discreet opportunity. With utmost care, you introduced a meticulously chosen substance into the serum, subtly enhancing its composition. This subtle addition held the key to unlocking a specific individual's potential, a secret known only to you and Ajak. The serum now bore the mark of selective power, its effects tailored to a singular destiny yet to unfold.
With the final touch seamlessly applied, Ajak extended the vial containing the serum to Dr. Erskine.
"This... is the Super Soldier serum," Doc whispered, his voice filled with awe and reverence, as he reached out with both hands to delicately cradle the vial. With utmost care, he studied its contents, tilting the container from left to right, his eyes tracing every detail. The glow of the serum cast an ethereal radiance upon his face, reflecting the weight of its potential.
"Thank you," Doc managed to utter, his words carrying a depth of gratitude that resonated in the air. However, as he glanced around the room, a hint of confusion crept into his expression. The absence of Ajak, who had played an integral role in this momentous occasion, left a sense of bewilderment in its wake. It was as if her presence had dissipated into thin air, a fleeting apparition that had graced their presence only for a fleeting moment.
"Where is...?" Doc began to inquire, his words trailing off as he searched for an answer. Sensing his unease, you closed the distance between you, moving with a quiet resolve. Concern etched across your face as you spoke softly, your voice a balm for his disquiet. "It's been a long night, Doc. You need rest."
With gentle reassurance, you placed a soothing hand on his forehead, your touch carrying a calming energy. The warmth of your presence enveloped him, guiding him back into a peaceful slumber. As his tired mind and weary body succumbed to sleep, you stood as his unwavering guardian, ensuring that he would awaken rejuvenated and ready to embark on the next chapter of the extraordinary journey that lay ahead.