Chapter 9 - The Two-Week Arc Part 1
By One Above All
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Such a fragile thing the planet Earth is. To its inhabitants, it may seem too big to ever be completely ruined. But as time marches on, so does their awareness of the over accumulated concept of fragility. For the inhabitants of this planet just need not look at themselves for a clearer definition of delegate. They can simply view their own world from the eyes of another. That very thought is on the mind of a certain and very important being who watches those people right now.
"Here I stand, alone and ever so diligent. Separated from the rest of my kind and yet given a position so grand. It is quite odd though. How familiar this blue area of the moon is, but I could see all the little things that make it different. The biggest difference being the Earth that I observe now.", declared the lone individual standing in the middle of a flat surface on the moon.
The individual is dressed in white and blue robes. Standing with golden boots, he caresses a piece of the moon. The rock felt slightly brittle in his hands as his pupiless white eyes continued to watch the planet that his new moon currently orbits. Anyone could have mistaken him to be human if not for his huge bulbish bald head.
"Such a strange world it is. The course of its history changed forever by a biological anomaly that has given the human race a large abundance of diverse powers. And as humans do, they adjust to every crisis and adapt. The bizarre and strange had become normal, and yet I have witnessed the beginning of great change in the horizon. To witness such change is my duty, so says Uatu the Watcher.", declared the being now known as Uatu.
The Watcher continues to observe the earth in its beauty, noticing even its most microscopic flaw as it ever so unnoticeably slightly rotates itself. With every blink, a new story is shown to him. A baby is born. An elder dies. A couple are married. A man murders another. But there was that one story that happened every time then on his old Earth and every time on this new Earth. A battle between a hero and a villain. In every country, law enforcement dressed in masks and tights would battle against a vile criminal filled with selfish desires. However, there was something odd about this old song and dance. It was as if both sides were selfish.
In his original Earth, many heroes performed heroics for the sake of the people, the mission, a call of duty, and or a dedication to the preservation of life. But these heroes, they have done their purpose with the intention of gaining profit, fame, reputation, idolisation, and influence. This age of the selfish hero has caused some rather tragic stories among their fellow protectors. Small time heroes had to play second fiddle and lose a paycheck or two due to not doing enough. Some don't do anything at all. Simply a pretty face with a profitable brand. Some were the exception though. The legendary All-Might who saved countless lives. The self proclaimed symbol of peace truly cemented such a title as an absolute fact with his years of true heroism. Other heroes have followed in the icon's footsteps and become just as great in their own right. Yet, a majority of heroes have not broken free from the endless chain of branding endorsement. Of course, this is a common thing with humanity and it was a common thing back in his old Earth too.
"However, something incredible happened. I have known that I am not the only one from our original multiverse to have been sent here. I am unable to travel to the other Earths of this Kohei Multiverse, only observe through my visions. But even with that fact, I also know that on this Earth I observe personally is the only one where we reincarnates can exist. Only one Earth to ourselves. It all started with the Zodiac Celestials. Terrorizing the known and vast cosmos with their unmatched power. Their reign finally put to an end thanks to the actions of a brilliant mortal human named Leonardo Da Vinci. Through his intelligence and leadership, the ancient Italian brought together a temporary think tank council and military alliance made up the most powerful factions of that time period. The warring kingdoms of the ten realms. The advanced and isolated Inhumans. The Egyptian regime of the Moon. the unpredictable and cunning Skrulls. The indigenous tribes of the Savage Lands. The knowledge driven sorcerers of the Vishanti Temples. The Shi'ar Empire of deep space. And finally, the Ancient Atlantis Kingdom.", announced Uatu. As he spoke, floating glassy constructs reveal visions of the far past as all the factions and their representative leaders encircled a wide flat-top stone table.
"Centuries have come and gone. All who participated in the great war against the Zodiac Celestials had parted ways and the great Leonardo Da Vinci became a hero to all of humanity as he had been immortalized in history. All had become peaceful on Earth until wars and political skirmishes occurred over the Italian's inventions and resources. After all was said and done the Cold War had ended with whatever remains of the brilliant inventor was lost to greed and pride. And then a new age had occurred, the age of quirks had arrived." announced Uatu. As he spoke, the glass construct then revealed the Earth rapidly spinning to show the years go by as it stopped on an image of a young Margaret Carter.
"This young woman is the Margaret Carter of this Earth. Through her Quirk, she unlocked a gift granted to her by her communication with the cosmic quintessence of our original Multiverse. With this gift, she grew determined and progressed to become the leader of SHIELD. As Director Carter, she created an inner circle of fellow reincarnates. Forge of the X-men, now her second in command. Wyatt Wingfoot, former ace pilot of the Fantastic Four and now the chief flight manager of all of SHIELD's Helicarriers. James "Jimmy" Woo, top SHIELD agent of his original Earth and now Carter's selected chief of the Japanese Division. The Thunderbolts, SHIELD's black ops made entirely of vigilantes given immunity for their crimes. Each member being formidable fighters for SHIELD's cause. Percy Scadia, The Black Knight. Charles Barton, The Trickshot. And the leader and the most dangerous of the team, Frank Castle the Punisher.", announced Uatu. The glass constructs then shifted into various shapes representing the hierarchy of this inner circle of reincarnates. The biggest being Director Carter and the second biggest being the Punisher.
"However, their enemies have also grown in power and influence. Hydra. The Maggia. The Sons of Da Vinci. And recently, The League of Villains. To combat these threats, SHIELD has sent their best to orchestrate rebel groups to fight the Hydra manipulated governments of Europe. The stakes have also risen with the existence of powerful weapons that were forged from the remains of the Zodiac Celestials. The Zodiac Relics. The Sons of Da Vinci have started to make advancements in Europe with their bio-engineered brain-washed operatives to retrieve these weapons. But SHIELD was not going to give up on the continent yet, the Director had planned for a unique project with a recruitment program devised by her adopted father Dun Dun Dugan. In the past few years, the SHIELD youth program had recruited eight incredible teenagers to be a part of their alpha unit. It's just that… these young ones aren't really ones you would see as potential heroes.", announced Uatu. The glass construct then shifted into eight equal shaped images revealing the recruits.
"Victor Von Doom, formerly the ruler of Latveria and now the Infamous Iron Man. Eddie Brock, no longer sharing an existence with his old Klyntar other half. He is now a true Human Klyntar hybrid with a singular consciousness with an alter ego named Venom. Max Eisenhardt of Germany, now dubbed Erik Lesher once again dons his title of Magneto master of magnetism. Victor Creed, the vicious Sabertooth then and now. With many more following after them.", announced Uatu as the glass constructs then shifted again to reveal all the members of the SHIELD youth department.
"Now our story takes us to the daily life of one of these youth operatives. The hotheaded but serious Arthur Parks. When he isn't attending classes and performing a task for his SHIELD superiors, he goes by the Living Laser. After the USJ incident, school was canceled the day after. Trapped in sheer boredom, the young Jersey teen rests on his recliner in his shared apartment. A month ago, he was told by agent Woo that he would be given his own apartment. However, the recent USJ attack had made the Japanese Division a bit more cautious and concerned with how spread out the youth department was. So to remedy the worry just slightly, Woo had instructed Simon Williams to move in with his fellow squad member. To the young Jersey teen, this struck a nerve in one his most known insecurity. A need to prove himself." proclaimed by Uatu.
… April 25, 2174 - Thursday …
"This damn apartment is only big enough for three people and I have to share it with you.", said Arthur nonchalantly. Next to him is his fellow New Jerseyite Simon Williams as both were carrying boxes of the Ionic teen's possessions.
"Doesn't that mean we can share it? Two for a three people space.", asked Simon Williams with skepticism as he placed the last of his belongings by his new bedroom door.
To respond to this, Arthur set the box he was carrying down as he used his quirk to split himself into Light Arthur and Dark Arthur. Signifying that there are now three people in the room.
"Three is a crowd and I don't like sharing.", said both Arthurs cockily as he plops on to his recliner chair.
"Orders are orders, Arthur. Plus if we don't listen to agent Woo, then he'll bring it up with the Director and she doesn't like it when we don't listen.", said Simon unaffected as he sets his body on the couch he originally had in his former apartment. Arthur had to help him carry it up a flight of stairs. Both teens stretched their bodies as they yawned their tiredness out on their respected cushioned furnisher.
"I still don't like it. Just because of one god damn villain attack, we have to be reorganized even though it was Squad Doom that fought them. Our squad doesn't even know who these villains are. Let alone what they look like.", argued Arthur, annoyed.
"To be fair, they did give Caine orders for him and his little brother to move into Erik's apartment.", reasoned Simon as he looked around his squadmate's living arrangements. It wasn't so bad from what he saw, but that's mostly because there wasn't much personality to it. One could say it looked like a typical Japanese apartment that happened to have a little bit of New Jersey put into it. Well, at least with what was in New Brunswick. Being from Paterson, the two New Jerseyites couldn't be any more different. There's a bright red shirt that has the word Wawa in bright white with some names written in white marker framed on the wall. Oddly enough, a street sign that said Sip Avenue hanging by thumbtacks. A poster collage of what appeared to be a collection of lawyer business cards, each from a different office. The New Jersey flag is strung to the ceiling and next to it is a banner for a hockey team called the Devils. For the apartment itself without the decorations, it was roughly modest to be sure. Good flooring. Good walls. Good amount of space. Especially for his three vegetable plants, his current personality "Farmer Simon" worked real hard on growing corn in a city environment.
Simon's attention to the apartment was cut off by the sound of the television turning on. Arthur had grabbed the remote and wanted to see what was on. The next hour, the two Jerseyite teens watched whatever the local Japanese called entertaining. Celebrity interview. Gossip talk show. Cheesy romance anime. The occasional western movie playing in Japanese. At some point, they just started channel surfing to count how many weird things they've seen so far. But then, they land on the news channel.
"It is unfortunate that we must now report on another vicious murder by the hero killer Stain. Making his killcount at 17 and the number of pros he had crippled at 24.", announced the newsman.
"Now what have we got here?", asked Arthur, intrigued as he turned up the volume.
The news report then went further on the string of attacks and murders that had been committed on several sidekicks and pro-heroes around the premises of Hosu city. They went further and revealed that the Ingenium agency has taken up the case of tracking down the hero killer and finally arresting him. The news report concluded with a sentimental montage of all those who were lost to Stain's bloody rampage. After that, it went to commercial, but Arthur turned down the volume and turned to talk to simon.
"Sounds like the pros have had this guy as a problem for a while. Why didn't they ask SHIELD for help catching this guy? With our satellites and surveillance systems, this psycho could have been caught like last week ago.", said Arthur curiously.
"Yelena told me that it's a matter of pride for them. These pro-heroes feel that it's their duty to put this guy down themselves in order to demonstrate true by book justice to send a message to future criminals to not commit such extreme methods. And I guess to assure the public that they still have crime down to a manageable level. It's honestly respectable.", explained Simon. Arthur didn't look so convinced.
"Seems like a waste of energy and people. They have an entire army of intercontinental agents in Japan with the best weapons and gear ever made just waiting to be asked to provide aid. I say they should get off their high horse and know when it's too much.", declared Arthur cockily.
"Come on, Arthur. Okay, so this guy has been active for six years straight with no sign of stopping and granted one murder is one too many to be allowed in society, but from what the news people said this guy tends to operate fast and quietly. Gone before anyone could see him. Maybe the Pro-heroes can't spare any more of their available resources due to other cases. At least this Stain guy is currently operating in one city for now.", elaborated Simon.
"Okay, but doesn't SHIELD have a record on this hero killer guy already?", asked Arthur.
"We do. The report is actually based on Trickshot's own experience when he fought this guy a couple times in the past. This hero killer used to go by another name some years ago. Trickshot has mentioned in his reports that Stain is a serious close-quarters threat and a sheer master of blades. He never really got to arrest him since their fights were before Barton's acceptance into SHIELD." Explained simon.
"And why does he go by such a gross name?", asked Arthur unimpressed.
"Possible psychosis. From what it said, he was a professional killer who mostly targeted villains until he screwed up on a job against other vigilantes. Trickshot doesn't know what happened in between then and now. I guess he just became more crazy with his ideology. From vigilante to a murderous radical activist.", explained Simon further.
"So he's a psycho who wants everything to go back to the classic rules of our old Earths. How ironic that some of us want the same thing. Now what I want to know is how you know all this?", asked Arthur curiously. Simon looked at his fellow Jersey with a skeptical look.
"Seriously, we did essays on these reports for our Japan's modern heroics classes during our crutch training with Yelena and agent Woo.", reminded Simon.
"Hey, those lectures were so boring and uninteresting. So, I just did my essay on All-Might and called it a day.", defended an annoyed Arthur.
"And you wonder why Woo had you share your apartment.", said Simon tiredly.
"All I'm hearing is that this Stain punk needs ass kicking and the Living Laser is the one guy to give him that.", declared Arthur proudly. Simon looked at him unimpressed.
"So you're really doing a vigilante run right after a villain attack yesterday. You know law enforcement is going to be on a strict high now to make sure any leads would be gained right.", said Simon worryingly.
" I was a vigilante before. I know how to play the game. Besides, they're just after the two that got away. All of their other cronies got left for dead and beaten by Squad Doom and All-Might. And besides, I'm fast as light and I can hit in multiple directions at once. And with my quirk, I can double that.", said Arthur as he walked to his bedroom.
"Yeah, with your damage output split in half. Granted, no normal person could survive a hit from you without the proper energy based protection. But more importantly, this whole plan is totally against what we're supposed to be doing. We're supposed to lie low and attend school. If we're needed, then they'll call us. That's the rule.", reasoned Simon, more alert.
"Yeah well, I agree to be on a team. Not to be a babysitter. I can turn to a form that's made of energy. What the hell are his blades going to do to me?", mocked Arthur as he exited his bedroom in his custom SHIELD uniform. A standard navy blue with white military stealth boots and gloves. Augmented tech fibers within the uniform's lining allows complete photonic transmission and conduction. All that was missing was his mask that is made of the same materials. Slipping it on, it is a white mask that covers the whole face and allows a singular narrow T-shaped visor for vision. The red haired Jersey teen walked to his small balcony. Thankfully, there weren't any civilians around to see him.
"Do you even know where he is?", asked Simon early to stop his squadmate performing a vigilante run.
"The news said his last reported location was an alley in Hosu City. I'll zap in, do some searching, and if I find the guy. I'll beat the lights out of him. Gotta show off our superiority over Squad Doom, right?", said Arthur as he opened his SHIELD communicator to set the directions to Hosu.
"This isn't about showing off. This is about proper protocol. Until the pro-heroes ask for SHIELD's assistance, Stain is not our jurisdiction.", affirmed Simon.
"If you want to stop me, either fight me or come with me. I'm already gone.", said a smirking Arthur as he zapped himself into the air and shot straight to Hosu city. Leaving Simon conflicted with what to do next.
… 10:15 PM - Hosu City …
In a dark alleyway, two sidekicks were bleeding out as they were slumped to a wall. Their costumes smeared in their own blood. They were once upcoming members in the Uwabami agency. Two fairy sisters with brightly colored wings were very talented in their light manipulation. They were hand picked by Uwabami herself for their attractiveness and their twin bond. Eventually, they would have her poster girls and become her favorite sidekicks. Their names would be cemented alongside hers, but to their attacker they were blood to be spilled.
"Standing above those you work with only to get into the spotlight with another false hero. Your greed ends here now that I have sliced off your wings.", declared the hero killer Stain. He had been monitoring the snake celebrity hero's agency for any potential target that represented the flawed system of the modern hero society. These two were just what he was looking for. Though the agency they were stationed to is in another city, the snake lady had them do an endorsement deal for their branding. It was so easy. Using recorded audio of a past target, he lured them into an Alley and dropped smoke bombs to nullify their light powers. Confused and disoriented, the twins could scream in pain as their bodies were cut and soon fell into paralysis. They were unconscious before much blood could leave their bodies.
Stain believed that the shock of a real fight must have been too much for the twins. It wasn't much of a fight either. Six seconds later, these two were beaten before they knew it. It almost felt overkill to cut off their wings, but a message must be sent to this mess of a society. Seeking glory and acolytes is an ill pursuit for those who seek to be a hero. Magazine covers and merchandise branding has no place in a real world of pure heroics. Their miserable states will serve such a message to any that fear his cause. To any that fear the change he brings. With his bloody work done, he scaled to the top of the building and looked down to the street level to see if any possible witness was approaching. None were around oddly enough, but he knew eventually someone will find the bodies. He leaps to the next building.
Stain traverses through his safest route to avoid detection. It was odd. He still hadn't spotted any people in the past few blocks. Either something was happening deeper in the city or they all must be somewhere in the outskirts. Guess those twins' bodies will have to rot a little before anyone could find them. He questions himself who his next target should be. He heard from the radio that Ingenium is going to be after him. Perhaps taking down some of his sidekicks will lure the faker out. Bring him one step closer to showing how these false heroes can't keep their promise. From what he knew about the engine hero, he holds at least some merits. Ruining his career was just a punishment. Letting him live to spread the message.
Stain continued to think on how the rest of his week could be orchestrated for his cause. Until something really fast collided with him really hard.
"Guugh", groaned Stain out loud as blood squirted out of his mouth. His body landed on a car violently with the windshield breaking underneath him. He spat some blood out of his mouth and let out another groan of pain. He lifted his head to see a glowing figure floating over him. It was like looking at a person made entirely out of light with flowing energy emitting from their narrow T-shaped visor.
"Finally, found your ass.", said the light entity.
Before Stain could say a word, the Living Laser zapped down to deliver a punch. As if it were a miracle, the hero killer painfully side rolled away from the strike. In crouch position, he could slightly see the damage that his new opponent had inflicted on the vehicle. A burning hole within the car's body on the tinge of melting. Yanking his arm out of the car, Living Laser turns to the hero killer. Chuckling as he sees the killer clutching his bruised side.
"Well, at least you're fast. Then again, I'm holding back. Got to show those pros how it's really done.", mocked Living Laser as charged for another hit. He missed again due to Stain dodging quickly to the right while throwing a knife directly at the energy being's neck. It went in as sparks of light ejected out. The Jersey teen let out a grunt of annoyance as he pulled the knife out of his neck. The injury quickly disappeared as he melted the blade in his hands.
Living laser then charged for another attack and impacted Stain to the other end of the block. The hero killer couldn't stand the cocky kid any longer, but knew he couldn't keep up long enough to put in more hits. His attacker may sound young, but they knew how to use their quirk well to the point of tracking people of his reaction speed. This kid is obviously light speed. Miles above his own reaction speed. His only option was to retreat. Luckily for him, he knew this street and where he needed to be for an escape. He just needs to slow down this foe with something.
Stain looked around to see that he was in the apartment district. He'll just have to break into one of them and hold out for a quick entry into one of the sewer tunnels he marked for his escape routes. He quickly jumped to the third story of the apartment complex to his left. Just as the Living Laser performed a charged slide-kick that left a smoking charred line on the street. The Jersey Teen looked to see the hero killer busted through a glass slide door.
"Seriously, breaking and entering. I knew you were psycho, but I didn't know you were such a pansy ass.", said Laser mockingly as he levitated to see through the broken balcony entrance. To his surprise, Stain wasn't there. Despite some judgment, the photonic teen floated toward the balcony and entered the apartment. He then became slightly annoyed at his situation. True, in his energy form whether fully-charged or low-charged, he won't leave any DNA for when the authorities are called to investigate the scene the hero killer just did. Fighting might leave an energy resegule trace if he were to make contact with something. A photonic trace doesn't last long when left in open space, but it will last long enough if the trace is clung to an object after contact. It was actually smart for the psycho to get into close quarter space.
"Damn it. Fine, I'll give you points for strategy.", said an irritated Laser out in the air. He looked around to see if there were any openings left by the hero killer to show where he might be hiding. He will need to find him fast. The real reason why there weren't any people around was because he fried the traffic light system to stay on red. Resulting in a major back up of cars into a massive traffic jam. He was lucky that the people who live in this building are currently stuck at said jam. However, it won't take long till the road signal lights get fixed and the cars and sidewalkers come rolling in. He noticed that all the entrances were closed, except for the main door. It was slightly opened, only leaving a small crack between the door and the frame. To the side of the door, there was a mirror attached to a small table.
With a smirk, Living Laser zapped to the reflexed surface of the mirror and bounced off as a stream of light through the small crack. Now in the hallway, the photonic teen looked left and right to figure out where his target could have gone. Using his light speed, zapped to the higher floors and found no trace of the hero killer. He figured he had to be hiding in some of the rooms, but there was no sound of a door being broken open. With a nearly empty apartment, he could have heard something. "So if he didn't go high, then he had to go low.", thought Laser as he zapped through the lower floor until he was left with the lobby. There, he still didn't hear anything. He concluded that this floor was Stain's only option, he zapped around to find potential openings. And there it was, an opened door with stairs that led to the basement.
Zapping into the basement, Living Laser found an opened manhole cover and zaps his way into the sewer below the apartment. The echoing tunnel allowed for him to hear light steps hitting puddles. Splitting himself with his quirk, Light Laser and Dark Laser zapped through every tunnel way surrounding them. Dark Laser zapping through his tunnels till he could hear his target's movement. He paused for a moment to hear out any more wet boot steps. After a couple of seconds, he did hear something around his position, but it was a sound he was really hoping to not hear yet. Continuous running thumpings could be heard throughout the sewer's ceiling. He was officially out of time as cars were now driving on the roads again. Sighing in frustration, Dark Laser called upon Light Laser and the two merged to form Living Laser.
"Oh, wow. That's just great. Freaking great.", grumbled Laser as he looked around at any oddity that could tell where Stain went. Begrudgingly, he gave up and concluded that this case had become a failure. His only worry now is to head back to his apartment without being caught by the public. If a single camera or phone gets a pic of him, it'll send a signal to the SHIELD hidden surveillance systems that he had been active without permission. Zapping through the sewers, he peeked through a drain and noticed that he wasn't far from his apartment.
With a resolute face of disappointment, he let his voice be heard through the sewer in case Stain was still in it. "Fine. I'll give you this one. But know this, Psycho, I could've beaten you.", yelled Living Laser in frustration. He then zapped through the tunnels till he reached his street.
Unknown to the failed SHIELD youth, the hero killer Stain had been hiding a set of pipes that had a darkened opening for his body to squeeze in. Getting out of his spot, he sighed in relief as he pulled out his weapons from a small gap in the flooring. He then continued on his route to his hideout. During his hiding from the brat that nearly beat him, something that he really hated to admit, he did notice something within the glow of latest opponent. The costume they were wearing had the SHIELD symbol. Looks like the international forces will be aiding the flawed society he seeks to destroy. And if even their youngest members have overwhelming power like that, then he'll have to prepare for when other SHIELD operatives encounter him. The way the kid spoke was as if he had something to prove to the false heroes of this broken system. Whether or not it was to mock them, it didn't matter. They prove to have become a thorn at his side. Guess he'll have to buy his time till he has counter measures for someone who could turn themselves into energy. For now, the hero killer will have to wait and see if his two latest victims appear on the news.
… Back on The Blue Area of The Moon …
"Sadly for Stain, the local news will give him an outcome he didn't want. Instead of being pronounced crippled and retired, The Fairy Twins of the Uwabami agency were actually pronounced missing by the public. Without realizing it, Arthur Parks had inadvertently helped a squad of Sons followers that drove in a black van get a stealthy opening in retrieving the bodies of the two sisters. The aftermath that day had gone in favor of the Sons of Da Vinci for they now have two new subjects for their bio-augmented super soldiers. The poor sisters were conscious when they were experimented on by their captors.", proclaimed Uatu as he summoned glass constructs showing robed Sons followers performing surgical enhancements to the body of the two women. The next construct showed the twins being brainwashed as their eyes were prodded open to stare at the Sons hypnotic monitors. All while their brains were going through surgery to make their obedience absolute.
"Like many others before them, these poor women now join the ranks of hundreds of the Sons super soldier army. Going by their new designations of 11A and 11B. Their fairy quirks had been enhanced with augmentations to allow far better flight and extended growth with the addition of bullet proof organic armoring. Their ability to create bright flashing lights has also gone through serious enhancements. No longer flash bangs on wings, they are now an entire arsenal of weapons formed from their light constructions. Along with their signature synchronization, they've become a strong duo for the Sons of Da Vinci's next move on their enemies. Much like how Hydra was surprised by the fact that the Sons had already comprised their internal defenses in Europe, the SHIELD organization hadn't taken into account the possibility of their presence in Japan.", explained Uatu as the glass constructs showed Sons' influence creeping within the countries they hide in. all while all factions are none the wiser.
"You forgot about the little Latverian's hunch. Guess he called it when that Iida kid didn't arrive as early as he expected.", a voice could be heard from behind the Watcher. The all knowing entity turned with a calm expression, knowing full well who it is. After all, they are two of three that can see the greater cosmos and the multiverse beyond. The mysterious arrival appeared young, a 17 year old teenage boy to be exact. They wear an all black outfit with gold lining patterns that are shaped like mystical runes. Over his outfit, an unbuttoned long bright red overcoat with similar gold lining patterns. Hanging from the base of the stranger's neck is a golden amulet that resembles a golden eye. His face and head were kept hidden by the red hood of the coat.
"Agamotto, you've been busy. Was it taking time in teaching your students or having another flashy battle with the Collector?", asked Uatu with little concern what his acquaintance does with their time.
"A bit of both. Caringly teaching young sorcerers to continue the lost arts of magic in a semi-heroic obodent world. Then when I'm bored, I give the Collector a damn good reason why you don't agitate the Sorcerer Supreme.", proclaimed Agamotto cockily and proudly.
"Hmm. You arrive with interest in my interpretation of the events of the last two weeks. But why? You have been watching our fellow reincarnate through your own sorceries. What would you have to gain by listening to me?", asked Uatu curiously. The Watcher then noticed a resolute but smiling face on the young sorcerer's face. And that's when he remembers that the young man in front of him isn't actually as young as he appears to be.
"Ah yes, this current form of yours is your last incarnation. After this, no more new bodies. You'll cease like an ordinary human and become one with the Fifth Cosmos. I do hope your successor is up to the task once you finally accept your role as the Ancient One.", said Uatu nonchalantly.
"Jeez, no need to rub it in that I'm reaching the end of my ropes. But yes, this is my last couple of decades. And don't worry about my darling little apprentice. She still has the rest of her childhood ahead of her before she will one day become reality's strongest sorcerer. Well, second to me of course.", said Agamotto with confidence. The long lived sorcerer then stood next to the Watcher as both looked to the Earth. They both marveled at the planet that has been the center point of every reality they ever bore witnessed to. Beauty and bitterness all contained in one delicate ball of dirt and water.
"It's almost sad really. This Earth isn't ready for what's coming.", said Agamotto with pity.
"Not everything is set in stone just yet. And if you truly felt that way, you wouldn't have trained some of the local humans in Vishanti Magic.", said Uatu, clarifying the sorcerer's hypocrisy.
"What can I say? Being around humans for so long, you start to see their view of things. At first, it was just a whim. But then, I start to see the value of leaving a legacy to be proud of. I may see myself as someone beyond gods, not needing the useless worship of the people, but it does feel nice to be remembered. In a world where technology and quirks now rule the power hierarchy of Earth. With magic soon joining the mix, my name will be spread and remembered by all who were granted the chance to be practitioners of the mystic arts.", declared Agamotto with glee.
"Your ego is ever so prominent. With your magic, observing you is difficult. However, I can read the lines of your decisions and I can guess you chose this long to slowly integrate magic in the world of quirks for the use of proper timing.", proclaimed Uatu as he allowed the infinite gears in his big head to turn on reasons for why the Sorcerer Supreme waited for all of his existence to bring magic into the world.
"Right you are, my big headed friend. I can feel it with the passage of time. Great calamity will rain despair upon this era of heroics. Despicable evils from saddened upbringings will cause revolutions and make society fall to their knees. And it's only going to get worse. As other factions will get involved and just rip this world a new one. Bringing magic to a soon to be endangered population. Desperate for a more powerful force of righteous fury to come and save them. But until then, I'll let our dear director of SHIELD play her cards. I'm not going to lie, but I'm actually excited about what she might have caused by rounding up so many reincarnates on her side. And so many of them are a bit on the dangerous side.", said Agamotto with giddiness.
"Hmm. since you're here, would you like to bear witness to my retelling of the events of April 26, 2174 and the days after.", offered Uatu openly.
"Ah, sure. I'm free for today and I could use the distraction while we wait for the sports festival tomorrow. So, which of our fellow Marvels are we going to observe?", asked Agamotto as he summoned a lawn chair on the moon's surface.
"Very well. We now take our story to Wakanda on April 26. On this day, the young prince Anakani would grow to become quite concerned with the current tension within his kingdom. Hydra attacks have increased and SHIELD reliance has come into question. The royal family has heard the pleas of their people and has summoned the representing leaders of the Wakandan tribes to discuss their next course of action. Unfortunately, their King was not present.", proclaimed Uatu as glass constructs reveal the current affairs of Wakanda. With the final image showing the current Black Panther facing off with a sword wielding Punisher.
… Wakandan Royal Throne Room. April 26, 2174 - Friday …
"Has the King arrived yet?", asked the Queen in a mix of stoicism and concern to the Dora captain. Queen Arra, beautiful as she is fierce. The first of the African women to rediscover herself as a Wakandan through the purple mist of the Vibranium meteor. First to lead and train the first generation of Dora Milaje. Such a strong beginning foretold her inevitable fate of being chosen by her people to be a worthy partner for their King. Obinna, this Earth's first Black Panther.
"No, My Queen. He is still in Finland to assess the situation. He mentioned that when he resolved what he needed to do. He will return with SHIELD's solution for Hydra's increasing attacks.", answered Dora Captain Eola. She and the rest of Dora Milaje have seen recent action lately. The Wakandan army had increased patrols to protect their borders. Many have spoken their opinions on operating further more into the African continent and be more proactive than reactive against their enemies.
The two warrior women stopped their discussions as they reached the doors of the royal throne room where the Tribal Council were waiting for them. They could hear the muffled arguments from the other side. The two took in a breath to prepare themselves for the avalanche of frustration to hit them. Once the doors opened, a loud symphony of yelling was all they heard as each representative spoke out their points on the rising Hydra tensions. Silence finally reigned in as all eyes were on the Queen. All patiently watched her walk up to the throne as members of the Dora Milaje followed behind her. As she sat, she peered at the gathered council and standing before her were the five leaders of each of the five tribes.
Rewda, High General of the Border Tribe. He and his people have protected Wakanda's real appearance from the rest of the world. A faction in the Wakandan Kingdom has come to be known as their blue phantoms for all secrets must be held, even to their graves, especially the secrets of Vibranium. In an era where quirks could have a chance to have incredible and devastating effects to the environment and people of so many countries. The need for stronger materials and resources to create more sustainable, controllable facilities to better nurture the next generation of unique quirks are on a higher demand than ever before. The United States had the edge in the resource race for better materials to improve the human lifestyle with the introduction of Adamantium. Created by Forge and his team of SHIELD scientists, the super metal allowed a major economic boom for America and an increasing dependency of SHIELD involvement with foreign affairs whether they were political or trading. Vibranium however is a metal so valuable that it's worth waging a world war. Rewda proves that Wakanda's best weapon is secrecy.
Sesom, Grand lady of the River Tribe. Ever since the meteor hit, the area of land that had become Wakanda was and partially still known by the rest of the world as the massive quarantine zone for the purple fog. Electricity and water had been cut off in an attempt to slowly kill off the infected. Later that year, the plan had been cut off from continuing by the other countries when they condemned the governments of the African continent for breaking humanitarian laws. The African governments fought back with arguments on how it is for the safety of its people to prevent the disease of the fog from spreading. When it was proven by several groups of scientists enlisted by foreign parties and some from SHIELD, that the purple fog disease only targeted those of African blood. With this revelation, many thought that it was a bioweapon built for an international hate crime. However, this was disproved when satellites picked on the signatures of the purple fog emitting straight from the meteor crash site. Despite this, the African governments went with the original plan and cut off the quarantine region from the rest of the continent. Before SHIELD's intervention, it was Sesom of the first wave of newly awakened Wakandans of the purple fog who uses her geologist and hydrologist skills to bring water back to their people. Many Wakandans joined her efforts to establish flowing rivers and a hydro-electric facility to restore electricity. Her services to her people gave her the position of managing the efficiency of the kingdom's utility resources.
Targue, The Red Vulture of Mining Tribe. The Mining Tribe were the first to understand the effects of the meteor and the purple fog. Their people were the first to nearly die off from the disease, but were soon the ones to reveal to their fellow Wakandans the truth of their reincarnation. It was thanks to them that the first generation of Vibranium scientists were established to study the meteor and understand its potential. Another development would occur in the Mining Tribe as alongside Wakandan science, Wakandan mysticism would make a resurgence. Members of the tribe would experience visions of the gods that look over their lands. Bast, The Panther Goddess. Kokou, The God of War. Mujaji, The Goddess of Life. Nyami, God of Sky. Ptah, God of Land. Thoth, God of Birds. Ngi, The Gorilla God. Upon their first contact, a spiritual connection was made and the first generation of Wakandan shamans were established. Through Targue's guidance, the Kingdom is a prayer away to embrace their spiritual nature.
Tiana, Bladed Mistress of the Merchant Tribe. Upon their abandonment by the rest of the continent, Wakandan Spies infiltrated the African black market to gain information on all of the illegal trading and contraband. Forming an elite black op unit called the War Dogs, they eliminated every figurehead of their region's crime world. This in turn lessened the bandit activity and allowed the border tribe an easier time in forming perimeters around Wakanda's five corners. With assets claimed from the criminal groups, the Merchant Tribe performs their own underground market where they operate anonymously and make business without breaking any foreign conventions. Thus, Wakanda had gained a way to create a form of economy without giving away much of their vibranium.
B'yuraitez, The Man-Ape of Jubari. The most physically peak of all the tribes, The Jubari have shown to be a crucial muscle for Wakanda. The soldiers of the icy mountains and the beast of the grasslands. B'yuraitez led in countless fights in the name of Wakanda, but soon he became more zealous for the pride of the Jubari. The first to challenge King Obinna's rule and to face him in ritual combat. The legendary fight between the Black Panther and the Man-Ape that took half a day to end. When it did end, Obinna stood tall in victory and cemented his position as king. Knowing that the Jubari Tribe are still an essential faction for the kingdom, he allows them to remain a part of their council as holders to tradition. Which often they demand to be upheld during the recent discussions of enhancing their technology with vibranium.
The five leaders gathered in their respective chairs near the Queen as they spoke out their grievances.
"We need to send more resources to our spies in Europe. If the King has returned yet, then all efforts must be put in fighting Hydra in their own territory. We can no longer wait for SHIELD and their empty promises.", declared Tiana.
"You would doubt our King when it is his own efforts to bring us allies to face a threat we still have no advantage over.", proclaimed Targue.
"The doubt should be placed on the border tribe. They have failed to halt the advances of our enemies too many times.", admonished B'yuraitez.
"Watch your tongue, Jubari.", shot back Rewda. This caused an uproar between the two groups thus causing a migraine to form in the Queen's head.
Unknown to the gathered leaders, Prince Anakani hid in a secret crevice within the ceiling of the throne room. Listening to the arguments by his kingdom's leaders, the young prince wonders how his father is doing in his mission. Can SHIELD really help Wakanda in this war against Hydra? From what he's hearing from his parents and the five tribe leaders, the alliance between Wakanda and SHIELD is held by a bond as weak as paper. But from what he had secretly heard from their prisoner's interrogation, SHIELD has the best experience with their old enemy.
"We share a common enemy, but the distrust is so suffocating. We would be fighting each other if we didn't know we have a foreign enemy.", said Anakani with contemplation. One day, he himself will inherit the throne, but he wonders if the foreign affairs of his rule will be just as problematic.
"To be fair, Anakani. You don't really trust SHIELD at first glance, do you? Yes, they help by giving us our independence from the rest of the continent. But they limit us in involvement.", said a boy about the same as Anakani. This is one of his closest friends. Nyongesa, son of the Mining Tribe leader Targue. He has been by the prince's side since they were small boys.
"I don't know, Ny. It just seems like all we do is fight each other. We need to unite, but why is that the hardest thing to do?", asked Anakani in annoyance.
"Because colonizers always like to have the last word. Listen Catboy, if Wakanda is going to really survive in this world, then we must find our own strengths. Allies are important, but not if they're treating us as a potential risk in their future interest.", explained Syl, the Dora Milaje captain's daughter. She approached the two boys and joined them by the wall of the crevice.
The three Wakandan teens chatted further about the growing tension of this war and how odd it was that the rest of the African continent hasn't done anything about it. Someone should have noticed the armies of mercenaries that had infiltrated the region. Being isolated in their own motherland is never good for any country. Either Hydra are very good at hiding or they have very deep pockets. A common rumor that has been going around the web of agents that serve the Merchant Tribe is that Hydra has inside influence already embedded in the African continent. Everything the prince has been hearing as he sneaks into every council meeting really paints a vivid picture of how much of a threat this malevolent group truly is.
The three made their way to the personal study chambers of the Wakandan Shamans. In one of the lower levels of the royal palace, holds the sacred chambers of the heart-shaped herb. Vast expanses of nearly developing blooms of the precious herb consume every square inch of the chamber's walls. The vines looked like glowing purple vines wrapping around the columns and a golden statue of Bast glistening in their purple light. The three Wakandan teens came to this chamber to perform their usual 'do not tell our parents' activities. One such activity being exploring the catacombs of their dead. During Wakanda's early development period and way before the birth of Anakani, King Obinna knew that mass graves on the surface could give away too much of the kingdom's location through satellites and drones. So before they could create their advanced cloaking systems to trick all global technology from detecting them, the dead had to be ceremoniously buried underground in the cave walls of the Vibranium impact site which is where the royal palace is built on top of.
Seeing all those who have died in the few decades of their kingdom's beginning, it truly makes Anakani think of what kind of king he will be one day. Will this many die under his watch? His father has told him many times that the greatest responsibility of sitting on that throne was knowing that each word he spoke can cause change anywhere in Wakanda. From a small political suggestion to when a natural crisis could cause danger to their crops and cause hunger, a king must always have a solution for his people. So far for the prince, being king won't matter if his future subjects will already be dead. If there's one thing that he wants to represent as his father's son is that he wants to be a king who takes action not just sit on a chair let someone else do the fighting. For his rule, the Black Panther must not be afraid to show himself to the world.
And for him to accomplish that, Prince Anakani must know the world. Thus the reason he brought his two close friends with him to their secret hangout in the catacombs. Nyongesa, his best friend. Syl, his longtime crush and training partner. These three Wakandan sixteen year olds were about to perform a ritual known as spiritual simulation. To live through a concentrated sequence in a random point in history by embodying an avatar who had experienced the random event. The limitations are whether or not the avatar themselves are dead. If they are dead, the concentration required for the shaman to perform will be much easier and allow the simulated voyagers to have more time in the past. But if the avatar is a still breathing and living person, the concentration will eventually strain the shaman and the voyagers won't have long in the simulation.
Grasping each other's hands and sitting in a triangle position, Nyongesa chanted the remembered words of Wakandans of past lifetimes. Spells spoken by those from their previous earths, ancestors and descendants both. The three teens' spirits ascended to a void of white as shapes and colors took form to what they might experience. For Anakani, he desired an event that could provide him training for when someone like Crossbones might become a future opponent. From what Syl had told him when she listened to her mother's interrogation on the mercenary captain. His lieutenants remain unknown, but he elaborated that he is a skilled fighter and has killed a lot of people. When the question came to how his quirk works, he didn't answer and suggested that they study his armor for any clues. The scientists of the River Tribe did their best to have full schematics to the armor's functionality and the final results left them in shock. The armor is metallic on the outside with grooves that small openings for air to go through. The intricate designs around the armor's limb and muscle areas house two types of tubes. One for ventilation and one for a type of fuel source.
That's when they realized that the armor, despite having a bullet-proof and explosive resistance exterior, was designed to burn the wearer alive. Designed to take an anti-tank round with little effort, the suit activates like a furnace as fire engulfed the wearer in an inferno as the tubes act jet to provide better mobility. What they couldn't understand is why? Why light yourself on fire as you fight? After much discussion, a test needed to be done to prove their theory. Arriving at his cell, Dora Milaje captain Eola orders for his metallic restraints to be fastened more to keep Crossbone in place to prevent his escape. She then ignited a blowtorch and applied the flames to her prisoner's skin. Surprising all there, the American merc didn't suffer from burnt flesh. Instead, his muscles slightly expanded and a wicked smile appeared on his face. He then tried to break his restraints and was almost successful as metallic groans could be heard as the restraints were on the verge of separating. To stop him, the Wakandan guards spray him with a canister of liquid nitrogen. Not enough to kill, but just enough to remind him that he is their prisoner. The American merc grunted in pain as he quickly retreated back to his cell.
So, it seems the quirk of this Crossbones reincarnate is an ability dubbed Heat Consumption. When exposed to great levels of heat, his body consumes the resulting heat and its source to empower the person. To combat this threat in the future, Prince Anakani seeks a Spiritual Simulation to combat someone with similar powers. Since he could challenge the merc, he'll just have to settle with an opponent who shares the same type of quirk. Thus, the world they are simulated in is that of a place he didn't expect. Stuck in frozen time until the conjuror allows time to continue, it appeared to be a Japan set not too far in the past. Roughly five ago to be exact. The scene displayed a frantic sight. Japanese citizens were running for their lives from some beast that was eating a motorcycle. This threat would be considered intimidating to the Wakandan teen if it wasn't for the fact that said threat appeared to be so foolishly cartoonish. Too honest with themselves, even if it was a Spiritual Simulation, this was the first time they've seen Japanese people. Speaking of the locals, who's history were they experiencing?
"Ny, why were we given an event in Japan and who are we simulating as?", the prince asked with curiosity. As the world had finished coming to be, it was only Anakani and Syl standing in the middle of the street. Though Ny hadn't been there with them, it is normal for the conjuror of the simulation to not be physically there. For they have the duty of focusing on the world the summoned participants are in and keep track of how much time they got.
"We were sent back five years ago in Japan. The year is 2169, though I don't know the month or day. From what I can conjure, we are currently witnessing the life of a young Japanese man named Koichi Haimawari. He isn't among the crowd. He is hidden behind a red car with stickers on its windows and watching the attack.", explained Nyongesa as his voice echoed in the minds of the prince and the Dora scout. The two then looked for the car their friend had mentioned and found their so-called host. He did appear to be a young Japanese male wearing a hoodie, sweat pants, sneakers, and a backpack.
"This is our host. I was hoping for a pro-hero, or at least someone impressive.", said Syl unimpressive and fully believing that the spiritual simulation gave them a bad roll. She then realized something.
"Wait, Ny. Is this one currently alive?", asked Syl as Anakani wondered that himself.
"Yes, he is. So you two have thirty minutes in there. Make the most of it you two.", answered Nyongesa as his two friends groaned in annoyance. They then shifted their eyes to the weird looking villain that had caused the panic. They were slightly disgusted with how this odd looking perpetrator was eating a motorcycle. Devoting most of their lives in aiding Wakanda's rising development, they had rarely if at all no time to experience the world of heroics. If anything, it seemed rather too flamboyant compared to their world of soldiers and spies. Not sure why they wear such colorful costumes. But if that is how their global economy worked, so be it. It's just that, if a villain like this found their way to Wakandan borders, they would be dead on the spot with Vibranium spears and swords hacking at their blobbering form.
"So, this villain will be our training for this ritual. I don't see much connection between this one and Crossbones.", criticized Anakani as he prepared his stance to fight.
"Sadly, no. Both of you know that one rule of the spiritual simulation is that you can only simulate in battles that the host had participated in. The one named Koichi didn't fight this villain. Here, I'll allow time to continue, but once I do, your thirty minutes will start. All I can do is stop your time or accelerate your progress to future events with no reduction to your time.", explained Nyongesa as his two friends relaxed themselves with some stretches as they figured it would be best to just watch the show.
"Starting is the only way we'll learn. You ready, catboy?", asked Syl as she leaned herself and rested her elbow on Anakani's shoulder. The young prince nodded as he gave her a confident smirk. Time then flowed as they waited for the chubby villain to be done eating. "Teeth are life", said the ugly thing. The spiritual constructs of the Japanese citizens fazed through the two Wakandan teens like foggy holograms. The next minute however would surprise them. Like a truck hitting an antelope.
"I AM HERE.", Like a meteor falling down to earth, this tower of a man crashes down on the villain. Immediately, the panic died and the outcry of cheers rang high. Every citizen there started singing praise for this tall muscle bound figure. Despite him being a spiritual construct, his presence did make the two take a step back in alarm and surprise. Standing tall is a man who's name has spread even as far as to the crevices of Africa. All-Might giving a thumbs up as the villain whimpered in pain for their now shattered teeth.
Anakani and Syl walked closer to the powerful man as he cuffed the villain down. Just as they were about to examine the construct a bit further, the spirit All-Might immediately shot straight into the air with great speed. For Syl, it was intriguing to see what is considered the peak example of a pro-hero in a place outside of Wakanda. But so far, the large man has more gravitas than actual skill. After all, he attacked his enemy from behind with a powerful blow. That's more soldier than hero. Anakani, However, viewed the large man differently. That smile. Those muscles. The bright costume and his magnificent hair. It was hard to not be in wonder of this champion.
As the Spiritual simulation continued on, their attention was brought back to each as they felt a sensation luring them back to the crowd. There, they could see their spirit host, Koichi, looking to the area of the sky with awe and admiration. The two Wakandan teens walked closer to their host and noticed that he was now frantically looking at his phone. He then said something in Japanese. A language they weren't familiar with. Their host gets on all four and slides to the direction in front of them.
"Would follow him if I were you. The simulation will continue whether or not you're in the same location as him.", warned Nyongesa. Taking that to note, Anakani and Syl use their respective quirks to keep up with Koichi. It was a moderate pace, no faster than a bike. After being stopped by an officer, the host had collided with some riff raff. A part of me felt a little embarrassed to be stuck with a foreigner with no spine and just instantly go to his knees. Even if they use their quirk for a clever escape. If this was in their country, the thugs would be the ones beaten. Cleverly enough, the young Japanese man used the supposed kick to his head to allow his quirk to zip himself away from the punks. Later, they found themselves in a very unusual setting. A crowd had formed by a light pole to see a very scandalous looking female hero. Or by what Syl thinks, a hero playing stripper. The crowd called her Pop-Step and she was without a doubt the most scandalous person they ever met.
Syl was utterly repulsed. Either this girl didn't have any self-respect at all or she literally defines what it is to be a honey trap. By Bast, she has never seen a skirt that short before. That's when a realization came to her.
Syl narrowed her eyes and turned to her prince. Said boy who she knows and who she demanded to have mutual feelings for her had his head facing the other direction.
Anakani was embarrassed and nervous for nearly showing his crush his unfaithfulness. He then asks Nyongesa to accelerate the simulation. The two then time shifted through the next thirty minutes, seeing Koichi walking all the way to a convenient store. They later see that the same thugs he encountered earlier walked in and then proceeded to drag him out to the back of the store. After one humiliating beating, the punks had their laughs and moved on with their night.
Despite his bruises, Koichi stood back up and proceeded to put on his vigilante suit. Anakani and Syl expected for him to be on a path of vengeance, but to their surprise he just went on to perform good deeds and simple public chores. The young Dora found the resolve quite interesting, usually most men give in to rage and demand compensation. This host of theirs really seemed like a major pacifist. The young prince saw it another way. To serve the people. Make the difference no matter how little. Being the best one could be. This outlook is by far the most intriguing experience he has ever taught. Not a listen in discipline, but in benevolence.
Their analysis of their host was interrupted when Koichi met Pop-Step again. Their second encounter was short and awkward as the two vigilantes were mostly disagreeing with each other's attire and way of thinking. The Wakandan prince was about to tell Nyongesa to fast forward the simulation until the three annoying punks had once again appeared again. This time it was the idol who bumped into them and they took their brash idiocy too far by threatening her with possible molestation. Nice Guy as Koichi calls himself tried a tactic, but it failed and he was held as a hostage himself. All seemed lost, until a gruff looking dark clad man fell and collided with trash. Next was a moment that Anakani would remember for times to come.
This old man sucker punched the one with red hair to the otherside of the alley. He then proclaimed himself as Knuckle Duster. He punched the lizard looking one yanked at his tongue. He then beat down on the bald one into submission. This rugged vigilante would next call to Nice Guy and announce to him the meaning of True Justice. The claw baring punk got back up and had Pop-Step hostage once again. Hearing the threat of the idol's face being lacerated, Nice Guy sprung into action and tackled the punk. After that, Knuckle Duster followed up with a nasty downward punch. Planting the punk's face to the ground.
With Pop-Step saved and the punks defeated, Anakani was about to witness something astonishing. A young man who most would still consider to be a cub. A tall strong figure standing in front of him with righteous grit and commitment. This dark vigilante extends an offer to make this cub into a real warrior of this concrete jungle. But just as Koichi was about to say his response, the Spiritual Simulation ended.
Anakani and Syl awaken back in the catacomb where Nyongesa, who was nursing a headache he had attained was waiting for them.
"Well. That was a waste of time.", said Syl nonchalantly. No actual training was accomplished today, much to her disappointment.
"Oh no, I didn't get to see if Nice Guy accepted Knuckle Duster's offer to be trained in the ways of True Justice.", Said Anakani in disappointment. If he had to be honest, the story of this Koichi Haimawari was really starting to peak his excitement that actually forgot the purpose of the Spiritual Simulation.
"You were actually engrossed by all that. All I saw was sheer nonsense and intolerance. Nyongesa, were we close to anyone of the constructs that would have been our desired target.", asked Syl to the recovering young shaman.
"Technically, yes. But he wasn't at the right state to be fought yet. From what I could sense, your target was one of the three thugs.", explained Nyongesa.
"Are you serious? Those three look barely capable of fighting a baby rhino.", mocked Syl.
As Syl and Nyongesa bicker about the results of their Spiritual Simulation, Prince Anakani continues to think about the story of Koichi and Knuckleduster. True Justice the vigilante called it. In Wakanda, justice is just keeping the peace and protecting the innocence. Was there more to it than just that? It can't just be finding criminals and beating them in battles. The young prince then looked at his panther tail as it swayed reflexively. That's when it dawned on him. True Justice isn't just fighting evil. It's to ensure evil never has a chance to provail. If evil always loses, then it will give up as it takes every hit a hero gives them. Perhaps next time, he'll see and learn more from these intriguing vigilantes from Japan.
… April 27, 2174 - Saturday. SHIELD Helicarrier. Giza, Egypt …
High in the sky of Egyptian territory, the SHIELD Helicarrier flies in a stable and undisturbed motion. The advanced camo tech installed into the vessel's plating made it nearly invisible to any Egyptian who would happen to look up. Reaching its destination, the Pyramids of Giza, a lone Quinjet flew off the vessel and descended rapidly to the sandy surface. Upon landing, two men dressed in dark stealth gear exited the jet as they carried heavily secured equipment. They locked down the Quinjet and activated its camo tech to avoid any passing light. The two men then proceeded to stroll through the sand to reach the entrance of the ancient structure. One of the men reached into their luggage and pulled out high-tech binoculars.
"Did Kronos deal with the night guards?", asked one of the men. This voice is distorted by techno gurgles that emit from the stealth mask's speaker.
"Damn right he did. They're unconscious, of course. Hopefully, the winds don't bury sand on them. We should be safe.", answered the other member with the same voice distortion.
The two men then removed their masks, revealing themselves to be Forge and Wyatt Wingfoot.
"Dear god. We must have broken so many conventions in foreign policy.", said Wyatt in slight concern of their involvement in Egypt.
"I mean we already reshaped Europe into fractured content. What more could we do to make ourselves look morally questionable?", said Forge as he placed his luggage down. Kneeling down and opening it, he pulled out a drone of slick and metallic design. He then pulled out a remote device and set a protocol to the drone to activate it and have it fly ahead of them into the pyramid.