A brief Interlude.
You rock Quilty
Most Awesome Quilty
Also if you noticed i got sick of your pleades for people to read this
Catz
[ QUOTE ]
Most Awesome Quilty
Also if you noticed i got sick of your pleades for people to read this
Catz
[/ QUOTE ]
Yay! Plea ftw!
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Most Awesome Quilty
Also if you noticed i got sick of your pleades for people to read this
Catz
[/ QUOTE ]
Yay! Plea ftw!
[/ QUOTE ]
More like shout at untill ears bleed.
And ive allready said its great
((Some of you may remember the Atta story that Shimmer did a while back, well, this is the continuation of that story that i have been working on for the past few months.))
Interlude
Devidose grabbed Atta and heaved him up onto his shoulders. Turning, he headed for the cave entrance, hoping Shimmer had made it to the Rangers Infirmary by now, or at least one of the two hospitals in the neighbouring zones to Eastgate. After Atta had been dropped at Lt. Wincott, his priority would be making sure she was alright. As he stepped out of the charred entrance to the cave, he tried reaching the Rangers base through the comms channels.
Devidose to Control Room, come in. Silence answered back. Devidose to Control room, is there anyone there? Can anybody hear me?
A sharp flow of static suddenly came hurtling through the earpiece, causing Devidose to tear the receiver from his head. Dropping Atta he looked at the comms unit and noticed the large dent from where it had been struck.
Kicking Atta in the leg, he turned his slowly building anger and frustration into blame, See what youve gone and done?! I swear, if she is hurt, I might just lose you somewhere between here and Wincott. Im sure Frostfire wouldnt mind a visit, or perhaps Grendal might want a word Atta lay motionless, completely oblivious to the threats. Fine, but Im not being gentle Devidose again picked up the Trolls leader and then ran for the Atlas security gate as fast as he could while holding onto Atta.
Although he almost dropped Atta on a few occasions, he made quick progress in getting to Wincotts position.
Here, Devidose dropped the still unconscious Troll at Wincotts feet, one Troll leader, wrapped and ready for delivery to the Zig.
Wincott looked briefly at Atta before turning his focus to Devi, Nicely done. Its assuring to find out that not all you Precision Rangers are as arrogant as some of your number, and know how to follow orders. Wasnt there someone else with you?
Yes, and on that matter I have to go check on them, they were ported away by the Mediport system. Wincott nodded in acknowledgement and then called over to some guards to help with Atta.
Devidose ran through the Atlas security gate and headed straight for the base portal.
Stepping into the Rangers base he immediately headed for the infirmary, but as he entered, found it empty. Walking to the Mediport scanner, he accessed the recent logs and noticed Shimmer had not been teleported in recently. Turning, he left the infirmary and quickly walked towards the Control Room, passing Frozen Rogue on his way there.
Hey Devi, everything alright? You look worried about something. Stopping just short of the Control Room, Devidose turned to face one of the PRs active Commanders.
You wouldnt happen to have seen Shimmer about recently would you Frogue? We were on a mission in the Hollows and she got ported out by the Mediport but isnt in the base infirmary.
Rogue walked past Devidose into the control room as he spoke, No, I havent seen her since yesterday, but we can check with the other 1AT groups to see if she went there instead. Have you tried the zone hospitals yet?
Devi followed Rogue into the control room and began looking for a backup comms unit. No, not yet. I thought Id check here first. Can you check the 1AT while I check the hospitals?
Sure. Ill let you know what they say once I get in contact with them.
Picking up a spare comms unit, Devidose began to head out of the control room, Thanks Frogue, I owe you one.
Frozen Rogue sat down at the base computer while Devidose stepped though the base portal again.
Within moments he was back in Atlas Park, and immediately speeded to the nearby hospital. Several seconds later he burst though the hospital doors and searched every Mediport bay and tracker. Having found nothing he quickly left and headed for Skyway City.
Moments later he had finished searching the hospital and was standing outside the Yellow Line station in Skyway.
Devidose, this is Frozen Rogue, you copy? The comms unit came to life and Devi opened two-way communication.
I copy sir, any of the other groups have her?
No, Im afraid not. I guess by you question that she wasnt in the hospitals?
Youd guess right. She hasnt been here and I cant think of where to look next.
What about her apartment in Galaxy City? Do you think she could have perhaps gone to the hospital there and then gone back home?
Its unlikely she wouldnt call in, but its worth a look. Ill be there in two minutes.
Ok, Genergy and a few others have just shown up and hes going to run a systems check on the Medipatch Shimmer has. Well let you know what turns up. Rogue out.
Devidose jumped onto the Yellow Line and raced along the twisting metal structure. The tram may be the most direct route to Galaxy but it wasnt fast enough for him at the moment.
Entering into Galaxy City, Devidose jumped down off the line, barely avoiding a incoming tram, and headed to the hospital. After finding no trace of Shimmer he headed to her apartment.
As he entered he noticed first of all that the place was slightly colder than most places and then noticed the familiar scent that was distinctive of Shimmer.
He walked around checking for traces of recent activity then headed over to a desk in the corner of the room. Looking over a small collection of mail he opened one of the desks drawers and skimmed through the contents until he came across a blank notepad.
Devidose? Genergy here. the comms units crackled to life again, Weve picked up something that you might want to see.
Gotcha G, I have a feeling I may have just done the same.
-x-
Devidose stepped through the base portal and suddenly noticed that the PR base was filled with more 1AT members than usual. Frozen Rogue appeared from the control room and called over, Devi, good youre back. Everyone is meeting in the briefing room.
What? The briefing room, what for? And what do you mean by everyone, I thought G said he found something.
He did, and we need to hold a briefing on it.
Devidose could feel the puzzled expression grow across his face, but followed Rogue to the briefing room regardless, all the while holding the notepad tightly.
Taking a seat he noticed the other 1AT members around the room: Blapper, Terra Byte, Aeronaut, Scapegoat, Rock Eagle, Jumanjiation, Genergy and Frozen Rogue.
Frozen Rogue stood up and walked over to the display monitor, Ok, the reason for this briefing is after running a system check on the Medipatch scanners and recall teleporters, Genergy came across a wave pattern that has only been seen once before
Genergy stood and activated the monitor, Here you can see the signal that interfered with the homing beacon on Shimmers Medipatch and teleported her somewhere else.
Devidose sat up as Genergy flicked through several diagrams, Are you referring to the system hack that Burrel used? As silence fell on the room, Devidose could feel the tension building around him, and as a result shot a glare at Blapper. So what, are we going to go find or then?
Rogue stepped towards the table, Look Devi, we know this is probably hard enough for you, but we currently dont know where Shimmer has been taken to, or who by.
Devidose threw the notepad on the table, I do, Arachnos. That notepad is the only thing she remembers waking up possessing, apart from her suit. That notepad has an Arachnos cipher embedded into it.
Genergy picked up the notepad and took out a scanner, running it over the notepad, He is correct. Theres a complex Arachnos cipher layered into the pages of the pad.
Rogue looked towards Devidose, And you didnt mention this before now for what reason?
Because I didnt see how telling her would help given she is still suffering from amnesia. I also found this out before she has even joined the Rangers. So, are we going too find her or not?
Given this information we need to carefully plan this out, Rogue sat back down as he picked up the notepad.
What!? But we know who has her!
Yes, exactly. Arachnos. Rogue looked at Devidose as he asserted his authority. We may know who has her, but we dont know why yet. She could be bait for a trap. It wouldnt be the first time Arachnos has tried something against the 1AT through actions like this.
Yes and the last time the Mediport system was hacked Devidose hesitated, knowing full well what he had almost said. Pointing at Blapper, he continued, although now clearly trying to control his temper, Well, you especially should remember what happened, and I dont think any of us want another Ranger death.
Yes, youre right. We dont want another death, just as we dont want several by charging headfirst into a trap. We need to plan this out. Given how often you design plans for weeks just like this Im surprised that you would act this way without having first thought this out.
I have thought it out. Im going to go to Sirens Call, find a high ranking Arachnos officer and beat him until he tells me where they have her. Devidose looked around the room for the reactions of his idea.
Sirens Call is dangerous enough as it is, if you try going there alone, you would be practically committing suicide! Aeronaut stood as he pressed his thought on the matter.
Then what do you suggest? A full squad goes in? Every villain and Arachnos unit from here too Grandville would know were there within 5 minutes of us moving out.
Devi, calm down Rogue again stepped back to the view screen, A full team would be far too obvious, so were going to form four separate, smaller teams.
Four teams? Why so many?
Three in the field, one on standby here. Genergy will monitor each team and Jum will be here in case we need medical assistance. Blapper and Rock Eagle are going to head to Warburg in case the search of Sirens Call fails. Terra and Aero will try Bloody Bay along with Scape. That leaves just you and me the two of us will go to Sirens Call and search for an Arachnos Officer like you mentioned. A silence fell on the briefing room, Any questions ?
Devidose looked around the room, then placed both hands down on the table as he rose, Can we leave already ?
-x-
Sirens Call was as ever swarming with Longbow battling the Arachnos forces. The two rangers ran from building too building, using what cover they could to avoid unwanted attention. Devidose ran with his cloaking device active, while Frogue followed just behind. Devi, you may be near impossible to see to everyone around here, but you are remembering that I dont have the luxury of a cloaking device?
Of course sir, and if we get attacked you will be the target, leaving me too come and rescue you Despite Devi being invisible, Frogue was sure he was grinning as he said that.
Great plan Devi Rogues voice pushed home his sarcasm. He came to a stop suddenly when he noticed Devidose has taken up position behind a wall. See something?
Devidose crept to a corner as the T3, barely visible, began to float above him, Arachnos squad, 4 man team Devis voice was notably quieter now as they both began to move into position.
I see them, Frogue hugged the wall beside him as he prepared too attack. Whats the plan? Frogue looked the where Devi had been, expecting to see the faint aura that was cloaking the Ranger, but instead there was nothing. Looking around he spotted Devi at the Arachnos group, holding something in his hands. Moments later Devi leapt clear of the group and of the soldiers exploded into flames. Two more were thrown too the floor and the last shielded his face from the flying debris. Seconds later Devi charged at the standing solder and caught him in the face with an uppercut. As the soldier stumbled back, Frogue moved in to deal with the two than had been thrown back by the explosion. One reached for his rifle while the other staggered to get up. Pulling the gun on Devi, the soldier squeezed the trigger as Frogue hands touched the soldiers armour. Blocks of ice spread from where Frogue had touched him, leaving the solders arms encased with the rifle. Lights out, Frogue swung a left hook and sent the minion sprawling. Looking over the unconscious Arachnos unit, Frogue quickly checked for any communication devices. Nothing he shook his head as he looked towards Devidose.
Next group then Devi was already moving off. After dispatching another 3 groups, Devi suddenly stopped, his hands burning intensely.
This is taking too long! Im going to find a ranking officer. Devi turned and sped off at super speed away from Frogue.
Devi, WAIT! Rogue reached out to catch Devi, but was just too slow and watched as Devi speed off, a short trail of dust kicked up as he ran. Genergy, come in this is Frozen Rogue. Devidose has gone off on his own. I want you too keep track on his location for me.
Got you Rogue. If your able can you make your way too Warburg, Blapper and Rocky are having a few problems.
Problems?
Yeah, theyve been attacked by Black Scorpion and his lackeys. Im sending the others from Bloody Bay as well.
Roger, Im on my way. Rogue turned back towards the entrance to Paragon, glancing briefly in the direction Devi had run off in. Take care, and dont do anything stupid he murmured as he moved off.
-x-
Devidose ran past numerous Arachnos forces, all of which were engaging combat squads of Longbow. As he headed for the small island that Arachnos had set up a base on, he noticed a significant increase in the frequency of Arachnos patrols, and also an increase in the hardware being used by them.
Running with his cloaking device still functioning, he made his way onto the base without any problems. Scouting out the base he managed to identify three entrances that would lead to the base command centre. Two were heavily guarded while the third was partially hidden by several long haul crates. Making a beeline for the third doorway, Devi skipped between the security details that were patrolling around the base. Reaching the door, Devi reactivated the T3 along with the Tactical Logistics software from his armour and quickly checked for any alarms or traps. Finding none, he silently slipped into the base and began to make his way to the main command room. Continuing to avoid what patrols he found, eventually he came into a room filled with several large communication terminals and surveillance devices, along with several Arachnos personnel. In the group, one stood out by barking orders to the other Arachnos troops around him, demanding better performance and issuing threats that Recluse would personally hear of any disrespect shown or attitude that was deemed unsuitable.
Briefly watching the pattern of stations attended, Devi prepared eight tactical yield trip mines, three around the doorway to deal with any interruptions or reinforcements that would show, two on one communications station, two more on a surveillance station, and the last on the power hub of the room. Placing the last mine, Devi pressed a small release latch on one of his belt modules and a small canister rolled into his hand. Pressing the arming mechanism, Devi watched as one of the Arachnos troops moved to the communications terminal, and rolled the canister into the centre of the room. Moments before the mine sensor was tripped, the canister detonated and a cloud of smoke along with a bright flash emanated from the centre of the room. Seconds later the first set of mines exploded, taking out the communications terminal and the Arachnos troop that had tripped the mine.
Alert! The base has been infiltrated, sound the-, the leading officer was cut off as a second set of explosions threw him to his feet as the surveillance terminal detonated along with the power hub, throwing the room into darkness. Trying to regain his feet, the officer stumbled, and turned just to see a blazing fist approaching his face at high speed. Caught under the chin, he fell back to the ground, landing awkwardly on his back. Before he was able to focus again, he was grabbed hard and lifted off the ground. Looking forward he saw the cloaking aura of the hero faintly glowing as it dropped, revealing an armoured individual with flame motifs covering the suit. The voice that came over was lightly digitised, conveying a male voice, but the heros build gave that much away.
Tell me everything you know about recent activities involving the Paragon City Mediport system, and tell me what I want Although digitised, the voice sounded even colder that it should have, either at being complete suppression of emotion, or on the cusp of a severe anger break. The officer hung from the heros arms, a Precision Ranger, the symbol on the armour indicated that, his jaw hanging as he tried to collect his thoughts. The hero shook him violently, Tell me what you know or there wont even be enough of you left to teleport out of here, to the Zig or anywhere!
The officers mouth ran dry, he had heard of the Rangers, and that they sometimes used lethal tactics. Fumbling for words he reached down to his belt but his hand was caught by the heros. AAHH! Stop it! In my belt! Theres an info pad! It will tell you what you want! The grip on his wrist was released and the hero checked where the officer had been going to check, pulling out a small data pad.
This better have what I want on it, otherwise I will come back after you. And Im very good at finding something that Im looking for no matter where it is The cold taste of the electronic patterning on the voice made the threat somewhat more effective, and the officer fell to the floor as the hero re-cloaked. Watching the barely visible aura rush out the room, he looked round the destroyed command centre, this was not going to end well any way it was looked at. He was the commanding officer of the base, and as such was responsible for the actions that had taken part. A small part of him considered the alternative at the Rangers hands, at least that would have been quick he hoped.
-x-
Blasting out of one of the base exits, Devi rushed past two guards that had been stationed outside, slapping hard on their armours before continuing to run out of the base over the water, back to the mainland. The guards looked at where they had been hit moments before the mines that had been attached to them detonated.
Reaching a quiet spot in Sirens Call, Devi took out the data pad and began reading over the information stored on it.
-x-x-x-x-x-
Arachnos Data Report
Classification: 7
Authorised Supervisor: Dr Aeon
Coding Sequence: 06DA-OM331-Light
Paragon City Mediport hack successful. Utilising methods previously used by Crey in earlier activities, target hero was removed from Paragon City to the Rogue Isles. Subject currently held within lab in Grandville. Further instructions to follow once stage 3 completed.
-x-x-x-x-x
Opening the communications channel to the Rangers base, Devi turned to where the Rogue Isles faced eventually from Paragon. Devidose reporting in, anyone there?
Genergy here Devi, go ahead, find her?
Not yet, but I now know where she is. Shes being held in a lab in Grandville, Im heading there now.
Wait Devi, this needs to be relayed to Rogue and the others, theyre still in Warburg dealing with Black Scorpion and Silver Mantis. Once they are done, we can form up an extraction team and head out to Grandville together.
Im not waiting, I know she is there now, if I dont check this out now she could be moved and then I Devidose stopped briefly in realisation of what he had said, Then we, might not be able to find her again. Im not taking that chance, I was the one that was meant to be looking after her when we went against Atta, and look how well I did. Im not going to let Arachnos take her.
Devi, wait! The others wont be that much longer, just give them some more time. Some ALT Rangers have been routed to them to assist and once they show, then the Arachnos forces will be easily dealt with. Devi, still there? Devidose, respond!
Devi pulled the comms device from his helmet and removed the GPS transponder from his armour. This needed done now, regardless of danger. Holding the transponder in his hand, he enclosed a fist and watched the brief flash of light that indicated the flame burst he had created. Opening his hand he looked at the small pile of dust that had once been the small device, and stood as the wind caught the pile, taking it away.
Looking towards where the Rogue Isles were, he checked the T3 and cloaking device were working within functioning parameters, and took a deep breath, readying himself for what was ahead. Raising his head after exhaling, he glared out over the ocean. He was going to find her, and find out from Dr Aeon why she had been taken, and why Arachnos was interested in her. Stepping out of the secluded area, he started to run, slowly gaining speed until he was just a blur to the standard human eye. Pushing himself, he could be there within the hour. Until then, it would be nothing but the water, and possibly an Arachnos patrol or transport ship. Until then, he could do nothing but run, and think.
-x-
Reaching Grandville was easier than he had at first thought, there had been no patrols, no transports, just open ocean. But once he stopped onto the island itself, all that changed. Arachnos troops were everywhere. Arbiters stood with a watchful eye over everyone and everything. Drones floated in near silence, instantly disintegrating anything that Arachnos viewed as a threat. Villains ran around in various directions, no doubt some of Recluses Destined Ones from his latest plan to take Paragon. On the ground the Arachnos presence was clear, and the sky was no different. Mu mystics floated around in patrolling circles, and Arachnos fliers shone lights down onto the ground, patrolling vigorously.
Devi stood in the shadows, watching the various troops moving around. Here he was secluded, the moment he stepped out the shadows he would be spotted, unless his contact came through for him, but that didnt concern him, they always came through for him. Searching around in the darkness, he found what he had been looking for. A small box, inside of which was a bound scroll and an 8 pointed star. Putting the star in his belt he smiled, everything was still as it meant to be. Picking up the small scroll, he unbound the physical ward and read the inscription, Occaeco.
The spell energies released, warping the light around them as they spiralled through the air towards Devi. The arcs of power wrapped around the armour suit, slowly bending the light around him, turning him completely invisible. Stepping out of the shadows, he watched as several Bane Spiders walked by him, paying no more heed to him as though he wasnt there.
Nice one, Devi thought to himself as he started to move out in Grandville, starting his search for Dr. Aeons lab.
Running around the large open spaces of Grandville, Devi passed several Arachnos patrols and villains as he checked from building to building, moving slowly closer to the main tower of Arachnos headquarters. Eventually, he came to a large complex, located just in front of the main tower, standing opposite a similar building that had Crey Industries in a large logo over the main door.
Why does it not surprise me that Crey are here? Mirtae would find that interesting I think but thats for another day Thinking briefly to himself, he turned to the building next to him that had a large Aeon Labs sign overhead. Bingo Quickly looking around at the patrols, Devi made for the lab doorway, slipping into the entrance undetected.
Inside, several lab assistants carried notes from place to place, and Arachnos soldiers patrolled the corridors. Checking to make sure the Cloaking Device was still working, Devi sprinted down the entrance ramp and into the main body of the lab.
Passing several chambers filled with heavy equipment, Devi checked for any trace of Shimmer or Dr. Aeon. Clearing several levels of the complex, he eventually came to a large open room with several large vats on one side, and a couple of empty medical beds in the centre. Standing over beside a large computer checking several readouts were four scientists and an Arachnos Bane spider. Shifting round the outskirts of the room, Devi positioned himself in order to hear anything being said.
-confirms that the subject is an Omega class mutant, as of yet, manifestation of powers is only just beginning to commence.
Some of the scientists were just now in audible range, but he had still missed some of the conversation. The main conversation seemed to be going on between one particular assistant and a scientist with blast goggles on, sporting spiked hair that greyed slightly. The scientist turned to the assistant to reply to the previous comment.
Very good. Once the powers start to fully manifest, it should be interesting to see how they continue to develop once manifestation is fully under way.
Yes sir, the subjects suit has been removed as per order, and as we speak the subject is being transported for drop-off.
Good. We will continue to monitor the subject until such a point where we can gather more data through a detailed lab study.
One of the lab assistants handed a report to the scientist, Very good Dr. Aeon, I shall prepare the relevant documentation for subject retrieval. I think Arbiter Daos and Viridian will want to be informed of this.
Aeon brushed over the notes, half taking in what the assistant was saying, Yes, those incompetent fools will want to know if we decide to raise a finger I guess. Make sure to mention that the hero will be detained indefinitely this time. The portal hacking equipment that Crey developed worked well last time, so it can be used again. If there are any- Aeon was cut off sharply as he watched the Bane spider crash into the computer display, its back aflame. Turning to where the Bane Spider had been, he saw the glowing aura of a cloaking device, flashing as the light arced around the concealed figure. What! Guards! The assistants each pulled a small baton from under their lab-coats and swung at Devi. Catching the first, he swung the assistant round into the second oncoming attack, throwing the lab coat clad assistant into his colleague, knocking them both to the ground. Turning to the third assistant, Devi just caught a glimpse of the baton as it struck his battle suits helmet, breaking the cloak surrounding him. Catching his footing, he prepared himself for a second strike, raising his forearm to block an incoming attack, and focusing fire around his other arm. As the baton struck his raised arm, he threw the focused flames towards the attacking assistant, encompassing them in fire. As they screamed and hit at the flames, Devi caught the assistants face with a right hook, sending him to the floor.
Turning to Aeon, Devi readied himself to find out what he wanted to know, but instead on a reflex action caught Aeons arms just before a blast of energy discharged from them, sending the blasts towards the roof as opposed to where they had been aimed; Devidoses head.
So, it seems you are more than just a lab-rat, Aeon Tell me what you did with Shimmer and I wont have to resort to breaking both yours arms Aeons face portrayed defiance, but as Devidose twisted the caught arm, pain flashed across the scientists expression. Tell me where she is, now.
I wont tell you anything. No matter what you do, Arachnos will do over a thousand times worse if I tell you anything. The defiance remained on Aeons face, but the fear from mentioning Arachnos was clear. Not that it matter now, you are too late hero.
Devi tightened his grip on Aeons forearm, twisting it slightly more, Youre going to tell me what I want to know, or I can guarantee that Arachnos will come looking for you for more than just talking.
Ha! You think that there is anything you can do? There is nothing you can do to me. If you kill me Arachnos will hunt you down. If I live, I will do the same.
Devidose drew Aeon close to him, Aeon could clearly see his reflection in the helmets visor, I managed to get to you, didnt I? Think about how easily I managed to get here, inside your very own lab in Grandville. Pretty impressive dont you think? Now think about what I could do to you. There isnt anywhere I cannot get to, anyone I cannot have the wrong piece of information dropped to, to start the wrong kind of investigations. The defiance seeped from Aeons face and became totally replaced with fear and hate. He knew that Devidose was correct, and that he couldnt do anything about it.
Fine! But you are still too late! Your precious little heroine is already gone.
Grabbing the lab coat with his other hand, Devi shook Aeon hard as his emotions began to boil to the surface. Ignoring the smoke beginning to smoulder from his hands, he continued with his questions, What have you done with her? Tell me where she is!
Aeon smirked as he replied, Heh, shes already been shipped out. We got what we needed from her, and sent her back into Paragon. Had you waited long enough, she would have shown up just as she did all those months ago, memory erased.
Aeon fell to the floor, clutching his jaw from where Devi had hit him, I swear, if anything has happened to her, Arachnos are the least of your problems. Reactivating the cloaking device, Devidose turned away from Aeon as the light began to bend around him.
You will never get off this island alive! Arachnos will catch you and you will never see light again!
Without turning back, Devidose breathed in deeply, I got in didnt I. Dont think that I wasnt prepare to have to fight my way out, besides, this is what I train for The light completed bending around him, leaving only a very faint aura where he had been.
-x-
Leaving the main section of the lab and getting to the front door was just as easy as getting in. The patrolling guards were unable to detect anything as Devidose sped past them. Reaching the entrance, Devi looked out onto the open space of Grandville, still generally empty save the odd Arachnos patrol or Destined One that was running around.
Stepping out of the lab, he quickly headed south towards the beach he had made landfall on earlier, avoiding what hostiles were in the way. Reaching the beachhead, he looked quickly behind him, briefly catching sight of a shadowy figure crouched on a wall ledge watching him. Nodding slightly to the veiled figure, he turned and sped across the water, back towards Paragon City.
-x-
In his lab, Dr. Aeon looked over the notes that had been scattered in the fight. Yes, this will be a most intriguing case to study further, regardless of any complications Picking up the remaining notes, he began to mumble to himself as several Arachnos troops entered the lab and began helping with the assistants.
-x-
Rushing through Sirens Call on his way back into Paragon City, Devidose paid no heed to the fighting that was going on between Longbow and Arachnos, both sides being backed up heroes and villains respectively. As he passed the various Warrior and Tsoo groups that were active in the zone, he went over in his head what Aeon and his assistants had been discussing., An Omega class Mutant, manifestation of powers is only just beginning. He was sure he had heard the term Omega mutant before, but was too distracted with finding Shimmer to focus properly. Running through the security gate into Steel Canyon, he pivoted on the spot, turning south towards the Yellow Line Tram Station. Within minutes he was back in Galaxy City again, making a beeline for where Shimmers apartment was. Pushing himself to run as fast as he could, he could feel the strain on his suit as well as his body as the breakneck speeds and forces began to affect him.
Breaking through the door to the building, he shot up the stairs to the apartment he was seeking, and barely managed to stop himself before he ran clean through the door. Pausing, momentarily, he looked at the door, breathing slowly and deeply, and reached for the handle. Twisting the handle, the door opened and he pushed it open, revealing the interior of the room. Looking around the living room, he could still feel the temperature of the room being slightly cooler than that of what would be expected. Nothing had changed since he had been here only hours earlier. He checked again in the desks, work surfaces and other rooms before finally heading for the bedroom. Walking straight in, he stopped dead as he raised his head to look around the room. Looking over onto the bed was Shimmer, lying face down naked. Stunned at having finally found her, he almost forgot the fact of her lack of clothing, and just as he was about to run over to embrace her, he quickly grabbed a robe from the back of the door first. Wrapping in the robe, he gently lifted her from the bed and brushed back her hair covering her face. She seemed to be sleeping, but apart from that looked to be perfectly healthy.
Taking off his helmet, he activated the backup modulator for the Rangers comms device. This is Devidose, anybody read me?
A brief moment of silence followed before the reply came, Devi! Finally, Frozen Rogue here, we were almost starting to worry about you. Where have you been!?
Sighing and suppressing a laugh, Devi relaxed his shoulders and took in a deep breathe, Sorry about causing any concern, but I needed to do what I did.
Thats understandable, but still you should have waited. Where did you go?
Grandville. I found out that Shimmer had been transported there by Dr. Aeon for some research purposes, but by the time I got to him, she was already gone.
Damn, so you havent been able to find her then?
Devi looked down onto Shimmers face, watching her breathe slowly, Actually, I did, although, I think she was going to show up regardless of what we did. She was back in her apartment, but without her suit. I think we are going to need to have a talk about some things I found out when I was in Aeons lab
Very well, we can have a debriefing set up once Shimmer is in the medi-bay. For now I want you to bring her to the SNHS base so we can make sure she is completely alright.
Will do boss, Devi out. He tapped the device on the helmet, deactivating it then looked back to Shimmer again. All that hassle. All that looking and you were back here before I could find you Devi scrubbed a hand through his hair and rubbed his eyes, briefly going over what had happened today since taking on Atta. He quickly looked back to Shimmer when he heard her murmur something.
What where am I? her eyes opened slowly as she looked around, and the moment they fixed onto Devi, shock and fear flashed across her face, and she tried to break out of his arms.
Wait! Shimmer, stop it! Im not here to hurt you! Devi tried to restrain her and calm her at the same time without being too forceful.
Let me go! Where am I? What am I doing in this place? They continued to struggle until determination and focus replaced her outgoing expression. Taken somewhat aback by the sudden change in attitude, Devi looked hesitantly at her, only just noticing the growing aura around her hands where he held them.
Wait, wha-? before he was able to finish several bolts of energy flashed from Shimmers hands, and threw Devi across the room into the wall. He looked up from the floor to see Shimmer standing defiantly over him, her hands glowing dark blue. What?! How!?
The cold look in her eyes he had seen before, but not with the blank expression on her face she now had, Tell me what I want to know, her hands pulsed slightly, small arcs of energy traced around her hands and forearms, Who are you, and who am I ?