• Date: September 28, M2100


  
• Time: 3:00 PM


  
• Location: Unknown


  

  [REROUTING PSIONICS...]

  [...ACTIVATING CORE. AWAKING CONSCIOUSNESS...]

  [...KAYNIAN LORD ATLANT ONLINE.]

  Awakening from unconsciousness, the Kaynian Lord opened his eyes. As his vision cleared, he noticed the blue skies above him. His mental node was damaged from the gate's sudden activation. Thus, he couldn't remember much as his pre-routine programming initiated. However, it wouldn't be long before he recalled the events on the red planet Mars.

  ''Where- Where am I?''

  He spoke, trying to make sense of where he was. Suddenly, memories and emotions overwhelmed the lord's mental node. He recalled the attack on the facility, the demons breaching his defenses, and the looming catastrophe that would befall his fellow Kaynians if he failed to secure reinforcements.

  'The facility, the gate...'

  '...The demon!'

  A shockwave of psionics erupts from the Kaynian Lord, blowing away any fauna or flora within his vicinity. He now remembered his duty – to call for reinforcements using the gate. Getting up, the alien lord stood and saw the greenery around him. Where was he? The planet he fought on was a desolate wasteland, not this.

  ''What is this...''

  ''...Is this a trick by the demons?''

  He murmured to himself, acknowledging that the demons were a cunning race, capable of matching them blow for blow. The only edge his people had was their superior technology. But now, doubt crept in—could they maintain that advantage? The demons were rapidly adapting, not only to their technology but to psionics as well. It wouldn't be long before they were driven out of the system.

  ''I must contact the others immediately...''

  ''...This Kaynian Lord Atlant. To any Kaynian Forces, I require assistance. Please respond.''

  Opening his virtual interface, he spoke out, but his plea for help wouldn't earn him a response. Why was this? The Arc Imperium spans the entire Milky Way Galaxy. There should be something or anything that would pick up his distress, but that wasn't the case.

  'Why is there no response? Am I perhaps on a planet located in the outer ring of the galaxy?'

  He speculated, and it would make sense why no one responded to his distress call. If he were in the inner ring, then his status as a lord would allow him to be found by the imperium. But if he were in the outer ring, then it wouldn't matter.

  ''I am stranded on an unknown planet...''

  ''...How unfortunate.''

  He sighed, acknowledging his predicament. Rescue wouldn't come until he found a way to communicate with the Arc Imperium. However, something unexpected would occur that would shock the alien lord. Before he deactivated his virtual interface, a notification would appear.

  ''A notification? I thought my proximity to any imperial world was far off. Why is this?''

  Questioned the alien lord as he opened the notification. Details are skewed, but it seems to be the gate. He couldn't jump to conclusions yet, but it's worth seeing what it entailed.

  [KAYNIAN LORD ATLANT. GATE UNIT COMPROMISED. REQUESTING IMMEDIANT RETRIEVAL. CURRENTLY UNDER UNKNOWN SPECIES SUPERVISION. SENDING COORDINATES.]

  Witnessing the texts before him, it wasn't an imperial world that had contacted him, but it was the gate. The very thing he was supposed to protect and use to bring reinforcement was under the hands of primitive life forms. The only emotion he felt as he read through the notification was rage.

  ''The gate is in primitive hands? This cannot be! These ignorant life forms do not understand the purpose of the gate! Only through death could they repent for such heresy!''

  He shouted as a powerful psionic shockwave erupted from his core. It was powerful enough to influence the weather to shift, bringing over a storm to the forest. However, it wouldn't be long until he calmed down, realizing his anger wouldn't help him accomplish anything.

  'Forgive my outburst, my Arc...'

  '...I mustn't let anger lead me astray from returning to the imperium. My fellow Kaynians are facing the bulk of the demon race. I must give aid to them!'

  With renewed resolve and a clear mind, the Kaynian Lord, Atlant, would face the challenges ahead of him. Copying the coordinates provided by the gate, he immediately set up a waypoint to guide him to its current location. However, unbeknownst to the alien lord, around him, hidden in the shadows, was a pack of angry wolves. Who was alerted to his location when his psionic outburst scared away every animal nearby. With their sharp fangs ready, they rustled out of the shadows and charged at him.

  ''Argh!''

  Atlant would be taken off guard as the swiftness and close proximity of the wolves got the better of him. The first of many attacks would come as his gauntlet was mauled by one of the furred creatures. However, the attempt would be fruitless as the Kaynian Lord's wargear was nigh impervious to any damage. Let alone could the wolve's jaws bypass the passive energy shielding protecting its prey. Immediately, he would raise a fist and throw a powerful psionic charge punch at his aggressor. Upon impact, the furred creature was turned into mush, its body unrecognizable as it perished.

  ''Come! Face me, vile creatures!''

  The lord shouted as he summoned his energy saber on his person. Igniting it with his psionic energy, he would charge at the approaching pack of wolves. Going into battle, the Kaynian Lord bashed a leaping wolf with his shoulder pouldron. The mass and speed of the lord meant that when the creature met the pouldron face first, its skull shattered, killing it. Afterward, he swung his energy saber at another wolf, decapitating its head off its body. Then another wolf came at him, and he sliced its torso from its body. Afterward, raising his energy saber up high, he would slay another wolf by cutting its body in half.

  ''Ugh, enough of this!''

  Manifesting his psionics, he unleashed tendrils of potent lightning at three more wolves. Upon contact with the furred creatures, their bodies seized action and dropped to the ground as they recoiled, resulting in their deaths. Having killed the last of the wolves, only one remained, the alpha. The pack's leader saw how its brethren were killed off by the intruder of their forest. With its sharp teeth and impressive size, the alpha dashed forth to meet the Kaynian Lord in battle.

  ''Face me!''

  Engaging his opponent head-on, Atlant would obliged as he wanted to end this bloodshed on his own terms. Gripping his energy saber, he thrust it forward just as the alpha lunged, jaws open, aiming for his head. The energy saber lands on the wolve's chest, its blade piercing through its back as the creature hanged motionless.

  ''Vermin.''

  He stated as he grabbed the corpse from his energy saber, sliding it off before throwing it aside. A satisfying thud echoed throughout the quiet forest as the alien lord reigned supreme over his foes. Dematerializing his weapon, he would turn around and continue his new mission. Following the waypoint, the lord would have a long way ahead as he journeyed to the gate's location.

  You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

  'I will retrieve the gate and kill anyone who dares block my path.'

  

  
• Date: September 28, 2173


  
• Time: 3:15 PM


  
• Location: Quake Town Marketplace


  

  ''Today was great! I sold more than what I expected...''

  ''...And no thief ever dared to steal from me. Thanks to you, Mister Tale!''

  The merchant expressed his gratitude to the Ghost, though Tale didn't mind guarding him. The task was dull, and even Joan had grown bored, opting to play with the nearby children. He merely watched her interact with them. She even recounted how he had saved her from the wyverns. Which prompted some of the children to approach him.

  [It's no problem, Louis. Although, we would want compensation for our service. Since we're called mercenaries now.]

  Vee's virtual avatar appeared on the Ghost's shoulder, causing Louis to tremble in fear. He worried he might have angered her by deceiving the guards and calling her a spirit.

  ''My apologies for making up a lie to you, but it was the only way!''

  The merchant responded, and Vee smirked at his reaction. Of course, she wasn't mad at him. Had they not met Louis, they might have been in a prison cell, worst-case scenario.

  [I'm kidding, you long-eared merchant. It's just funny seeing your reaction.]

  ''Oh, I see...''

  ''...Wait. You mean you find my reaction funny?''

  Nodding in response. The merchant's expression turned pale, causing Vee to chuckle at the merchant's overreaction. Meanwhile, after playing for hours, Joan finally bid farewell to her new friends. Playing for the entire afternoon has exhausted the young one as she approaches her current parental figures.

  ''Hello, Miss Vee and Mister Louis!''

  [Hello, sweetheart. How's your time with your new friends?]

  ''We had fun...''

  ''...I told them the story about how Mister Tale saved me!''

  [Really, that's good!]

  This was a positive development for Joan. Not only was she moving on from her recent trauma, but she was also reconnecting with other children her age, repressing her memories of those she lost. Seeing the recent development, Louis would surprise the little one with a reward.

  ''That is very good, Joan...''

  ''...Say, after we're done here. We could get dinner at a nearby tavern.''

  ''Really?''

  ''Yep!''

  The young elve smiled at the merchant's promise. They would start cleaning up the wagon's area and return some of the unsold products. Joan would also help with the cleaning, eager to contribute and feel useful. Together, they worked to restore the wagon to its original order.

  ''All done! Now let's head to that tavern.''

  [Isn't it a bit too early to book a tavern?]

  ''Aye, I know, but you did say that Joan just lost her village...''

  ''...She might need to rest early to recover her bearings, and perhaps we sold most of the products. It shouldn't be a problem.''

  [I see, well then, let's go.]

  Climbing onto the wagon, Louis navigated through the bustling crowds of Quake Town until he reached their destination. A sign imbued with light magic read "The Shining Bell." The large tavern boasted three floors, and the glowing lights outside indicated that people were eating, drinking, and celebrating inside.

  ''Here we are! Now, just let me talk to the owner inside, and I'll be right back!''

  Hopping out of his seat, Louis strode toward the front entrance and opened the door, letting out a ring. Entering the establishment, the sounds of laughter and music filled the air. A few seconds passed as the merchant exited the tavern and strode towards the caravan. Joan gleaned in excitement, and Vee was impressed upon seeing how fast the reception was.

  [That was fast?]

  ''It's actually because of my affiliation to the merchants guild that got me a quick reservation with the tavern.''

  [That's handy...]

  [...So where will you park your wagon?]

  ''They have a stable steed behind the tavern. I can leave my wagon there until tomorrow.''

  The merchant replied before they made their way to the stable. Which was half-filled with horses. The animals were either eating, resting, or simply lounging around. After quickly setting down the wagon, Louis unharnessed the horses and led them into the stable. Joan and Vee watched as he settled them in and offered them hay to eat.

  ''All good. Let us enter the tavern and get something to eat!''

  Tale and his companions then entered the tavern through the back door. Inside, they were greeted by a diverse crowd of elves and the lively music of a band playing at the far end of the hall. However, upon stepping inside, the Ghost Operative became a sore thumb as everyone eyed him from a distance while still enjoying their meals. Meanwhile, his partner, Vee, merely searched for a table suited for them. Using the super soldier's height as a perch.

  [Let's move to that table over there.]

  She pointed out the unoccupied table in the far corner. Nodding in response, they immediately moved their way toward the table. At least the tavern's ceiling was well over seven feet, and the floor was made of stone. Tale was grateful for this, as the potential property damage from his weight and height could have been staggering otherwise.

  ''Joan, you can sit wherever you want...''

  ''...And Mister Tale. I suppose you're not going to sit?''

  ''Affirmative. That wooden chair won't hold my weight.''

  ''I see.''

  A waitress approached their table, holding a notepad and a pencil in her hands. She wore a decorative apron with intricate leaf and vine embroidery over a flowing dress. While her hair was adorned with silver flower-shaped hairpins. With a smile, she would greet the new customers within her employer's tavern.

  ''Good afternoon! Welcome to The Shining Bell! May I take your order?''

  ''Ah, yes. Some pork, bread, and potatoes on mine...''

  ''...Joan, what do you want? Remember, it's my treat.''

  Turning her attention to the little one, the waitress smiled as Joan contemplated her meal. She admired the child's thoughtful expression as she considered her options.

  ''I want salad and roasted pork!''

  ''Well, for me...''

  ''...I would like the same order as the little one but with add-on seaweed.''

  The waitress quickly noted Louis and Joan's orders before shifting her attention to Tale. Swallowing nervously, she approached him to inquire about his order. The cloaked figure, encased in advanced power armor, made him the tallest customer in the tavern. Easily dwarfing the kind waitress. However, it seems that even with how intimidating he was, the young female still had to perform her job.

  ''W- What about you, g- good sir?"

  ''Nothing.''

  ''P- Pardon?''

  ''I prefer ordering nothing.''

  Tale replied, unaware that most, if not all, the customers in the tavern were watching him. However, no one dared to approach the operative, as his partner was present to deter them. The A.I., often mistaken for a spirit, held sway over the situation and smirked at the onlookers, forcing them to look away. Afterward, she would turn her attention to the trembling waitress and apologize for her partner's demeanor.

  [Apologies for my friend's attitude. He doesn't really want to eat anything.]

  ''Very w- well. I- I'll return with your orders!''

  The waitress answered before she went off to fetch Louis and Joan's order. However, as the merchant and the young one conversed, an uninvited guest would approach their table. Approaching the Ghost Operative was a drunk sea elve with a sword in his off-hand.

  ''Hey!''

  Shouted the elve as he gained the operative's attention. To Tale's dismay, upon turning to meet who had called him, he saw a blue-skinned elve with a weapon on hand. He knew this elve was under the effects of alcohol, and he understood that due to his unusual height, this elve probably thought that he could take him on.

  [Oh boy, this can only go well.]

  Vee stated as she witnessed the drunk elve approach her partner. Brandishing his weapon near Tale's helmet, the unnamed sea elve wanted to teach the operative a ''lesson.''

  ''Just because you cover yourself in your fancy armor! That it makes you the best in the town?''

  The drunken elve challenged the Ghost, who stood his ground, unfazed by the elve's taunts. Despite the primitive weapon being waved near his face, the operative didn't flinch. He knew the sword posed no real threat to him. However, he remained alert, ready to act if the situation escalated.

  ''Heeyah!''

  The situation escalated when the elve swung his weapon at the operative, expecting to injure him. Instead, the blade glanced off the advanced power armor, demonstrating the superior technology of Earth's best. Meanwhile, the sea elve's initial reaction was shock as he realized his weapon had done no harm to his opponent.

  ''What! That's- Ack!''

  Before he could finish his sentence, the Ghost Operative swiftly grabbed him by the throat. Face-to-face with an emotionless helmet, the fool struggled in vain to break free. However, he would be granted mercy as he was dropped to the floor, allowing him to gasp for air. Looking up, he saw the operative towering over him, and the realization of his mistake set in. Fear gripped the sea elve as he crawled beneath the super soldier's imposing figure.

  [Huh, do you have to do that?]

  ''He was annoying. More so than the avian.''

  Hearing the Ghost's opinion of him, Terwa chirped furiously at Tale and darted toward him, his wings flapping wildly. With the rage of a thousand men, the bird pecked relentlessly at his helmet, the metallic clangs echoing in the tavern. Tale, however, remained unfazed, watching the bird's futile display of fury.

  ''Terwa, stop!''

  Joan ordered, and the bird reluctantly stopped. Returning to his original position, Tale stood still as ice. Murmurs started to flare up, and the sea elve was quickly dragged out of the tavern. After the confrontation, the waitress returned with their order and placed them neatly on the table.

  ''Here are your orders...''

  ''...And we apologize for one of the customer's demeanor towards your associate.''

  The waitress apologized to Louis, who nodded politely, recognizing that it was merely a misunderstanding. After setting down their food, Louis handed her the payment. Joan, unconcerned with the recent incident, shifted her attention to her meal and began eating.

  [So what do we do next?]

  ''Is this about the Kaynian Device?''

  [Yes. Where can we gather information, or do we use Louis? After all, he is indebted to us.]

  A possibility, yes; Louis did mention that he was part of a trading guild. Perhaps he could ask him about unnatural occurrences in their world or acquire a map. Whatever choice Tale would make, it would ease their search for the Kaynian Device.

  ''We should take advantage of Louis, but we'll do so tomorrow...''

  ''...Joan still needs her rest.''

  [Naturally, the little one had just lost her home.]

  After finishing their meal, Joan and Louis felt satisfied with full bellies while Terwa happily picked at the crumbs left on the plate. Soon, the young one began to feel drowsy, her eyelids growing heavy as she fought to stay awake.

  [Joan, honey, are you tired?]

  Joan nodded in response, and Vee smiled back at her. Turning to Louis, Vee asked if he had arranged a separate bed for Joan, as they didn't want anything happening to the child they were caring for.

  [Louis, what kind of room did you purchase exactly?]

  ''A room with two beds! I made sure of it, Lady Vee!''

  [Good. Just so you know, if you were to do something to Joan, then count your time here in this world because my friend over here...]

  [...Will be the last face you'll ever see.]

  Gulping and sweating in fear, the merchant quickly nodded in response, which earned him a smile from Vee. Meanwhile, Tale wondered where he would stay if Louis had only ordered a single room. Contemplating the potential complications that might arise from such a situation.

  ''Where would I rest during the night?''

  ''I brought this up with the owner, and he said you can use the stable...''

  ''...My apologies, Mister Tale, but I couldn't get any better shelter for you to sleep under.''

  That didn't matter because his power armor provided more comfort than this tavern. Sleeping on the horse stable would be for the best for him. This means he can guard Louis's wagon and deter any elves.

  ''It is of no concern to me.''

  ''Are you sure?'''

  ''Affirmative.''

  Louis then stood up, taking Joan's hand and guiding her to their room, ensuring she felt secure beside him as they navigated through the bustling tavern. Meanwhile, Tale and Vee observed the merchant leading the little one away to rest.

  [Take good care of him, Louis.]

  ''I will, Lady Vee.''

  Louis then proceeded to the stairs, leaving Tale alone. Making his way to the back door entrance, he exited the tavern before heading toward the stable. Standing beside a post, contemplating his surroundings. If it weren't for the cloak the merchant had given him, the elves he encountered would have mistaken him for a golem. The cloak's fabric blended seamlessly with the shadows, helping him remain unnoticed in the vibrant atmosphere of Quake Town. However, one thought remained in the operative's mind.

  'If that Kaynian Lord is present here on this planet. I may need a countermeasure against him.'

  To Be Continued.