London, England, UK, Omega Earth
The soulless generals, Reaver, Neptune, and Elderflame, arrived and approached Abraxas, kneeling before their master. Neptune was the first to speak, presenting the Gem of Reality with reverence, "My Lord, your artifacts."
Reaver, shrouded in a heavy silence, felt a twinge of hesitation deep within but presented the Mask of Dimensions for his master to inspect.
Abraxas praised them for their dedication, his deep voice resonating through the chamber, "Well done." His words carried an undertone of satisfaction that briefly eased Reaver's inner turmoil.
Abraxas's attention soon turned to Elderflame, who stood before him empty-handed. "And where is the Gauntlet of Space?"
With a heavy heart, the soulless warrior admitted, "I wasn't able to find it, my Lord. I've looked everywhere I could."
Abraxas, though disappointed, acknowledged Elderflame's honest confession, "I suppose I still have need of you, Elderflame. No matter. The Gauntlet of Space will be mine eventually."
Elderflame bowed his head in gratitude, relieved that his failure hadn't cost him his existence, "Thank you for your mercy, my Lord," he expressed humbly.
The other soulless generals, Gaia, Nebula, and Ion, the soulless echoes of Skye, Astra, and Killjoy respectively, bowed in reverence before their master. Ion stepped forward to deliver a significant report, "My Lord, The Ark is showing promising results. All Radivores on Omega Earth are now under our control."
Abraxas, rising from his imposing throne, declared menacingly, "Excellent. Then we are ready."
The artifacts, once held by Neptune and Reaver, floated gracefully from their hands, drawn by an irresistible force towards Abraxas as he extended his arms to receive them. His dark eyes gleamed with malevolent intent as he descended the grand staircase, each step resonating with his newfound power.
"Earth. Imagine the endless possibilities we could create if we turn this planet into our template," Abraxas proclaimed, his voice resonating with a blend of arrogance and anticipation. "Despite being significantly larger than Radinthon, it exhibits an extraordinary affinity for Radianite. On its soil, we will build a new world, a world in my image. When the humans are reborn as the new Radinthonians, they will acknowledge me with gratitude, for they will live in the perfect world. New Radinthon... my Utopia!"
With his grand vision declared, Abraxas proceeded to absorb the essence of the mask and gem held within his grasp. As the two artifacts lost their energy and their spark, they began to disintegrate into fragile fragments, eventually turning into dust.
Abraxas could feel the immense power surging into his body, coursing through his very veins. With newfound abilities at his command, he raised his hands.
Unleashing the tremendous power of the Gem of Reality, he tore down the barrier that separated the realities of countless Earths, shattering the walls that held them apart.
He then called upon the abilities of the Mask of Dimensions, shifting the dimensional fabric itself, allowing all the worlds to exist in the same dimensions.
The once-unified sky fractured, revealing a breathtaking spectacle of numerous Earths, each with its own unique reality and destiny, now laid ready for Abraxas to reshape according to his wicked desires.
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Copenhagen, Denmark, Omega Earth
Omega Glitch and Fade fought their way through waves of relentless Radivores, inching closer to the safety of the bunker's entrance. Their weapons blazed, and their powers clashed with the chaos around them.
However, as they approached the bunker, a sudden chill ran down Glitch's spine. His senses tingled, and his focus shifted from the immediate danger to something much larger, something more profound. He halted in his tracks, his eyes widening as he surveyed the world around him.
"What's wrong?" Fade asked, concern etched on her face as she continued to fend off the encroaching Radivores.
Glitch didn't respond immediately. Instead, he looked up at the sky, which had started to change dramatically. The familiar sky was being torn apart, revealing an entirely new expanse beyond. Many planets which appeared to be Earths were now visible, scattered across the cosmic canvas.
"What in the world..." Glitch muttered, his voice barely more than a whisper as he gazed upon this surreal revelation.
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Los Angeles, California, USA, Alpha Earth
As the Vulture weaved through the cityscape, narrowly avoiding pursuit, the tension onboard was at its peak. Task force soldiers were now hot on their tail, determined to bring them to justice. The Protocol had exposed the dirty secrets hidden within Kingdom, their own parent organization, and now they were ironically being hunted by those they had once served.
Finally, they managed to lose their chasers, and the Vulture climbed higher into the sky, ready to engage its hyperdrive and leave the city behind. However, just as relief began to wash over them, Glitch's voice broke through.
"Something's not right," he said, his tone laced with concern.
The others turned to him, their expressions shifting from relief to confusion. Glitch's instincts were rarely wrong, and if he felt something amiss, they needed to pay attention.
As they all scanned the skies, their worst fears were realized. The very fabric of the sky began to fracture and crumble, revealing a vast and incomprehensible space beyond. Stars and entire Earths shimmered in the cosmic expanse, stretching out into infinity.
The Protocol members watched in stunned silence as the sky broke apart, revealing this bewildering new reality. They were faced with a sight that defied all logic and understanding.
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Dhaka, Bangladesh, Sigma Earth
Doctor Böhringer had always possessed a compassionate heart, one that drove her to make a difference in the lives of those who had suffered the most. The scars of the human-Radiant wars had left countless children orphaned and in desperate need of help. For her, it became a mission, a purpose greater than herself.
She had set a remarkable goal for herself: to travel the entire world, offering assistance to those who needed it the most. On this particular day, she was in the middle of spreading out the lunchboxes, her heart warmed by the grateful smiles of the children.
But as she crouched down, placing a lunchbox before a child with hopeful eyes, she noticed something extraordinary happening in the sky above. The cerulean expanse cracked and split, like a breaking glass coming apart. Her eyes widened in sheer disbelief as the cracks revealed a breathtaking spectacle—countless Earths, each one unique, suspended in the cosmic void.
The children around her gasped and pointed at the fractured sky, their wonder mirroring her own. Just as she was trying to make sense of this awe-inspiring phenomenon, Sergeant Novikov approached from behind.
"Like I told you before, Klara. Something was coming. This is it."
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Singapore, Delta Earth
"Glitch, maintain your focus," Delta Cypher cautioned. "Keep your attention on the prime minister's safety."
Delta Glitch was unable to look away from the unfolding cosmic display. His voice was resolute as he instructed Cypher, "You might wanna look at the sky, Cypher, and call Brimstone. This is just messed up."
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Kiev, Ukraine, Gamma Earth
Gamma Glitch and Sage moved with lethal precision, eliminating Radiant terrorists one by one. Their synergy was unmatched, and they were a force to be reckoned with.
But in the midst of their combat, the unusual phenomenon in the sky caught Gamma Glitch's attention. His focus broke for a moment as he gazed at the inexplicable event unfolding above.
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London, England, UK, Omega Earth
A sinister smile twisted Abraxas' features as the structure above him was blasted away, granting him a clear view of the unraveling sky. In a hushed, triumphant tone, he muttered, "Do you see me now, father? I am becoming a god."
His attention shifted from the heavens to the loyal followers gathered beneath him. While most remained unfazed, others, like Reaver and Ion, harbored a sense of guilt for their role in this unfolding calamity.
Abraxas's commanding voice rang out as he issued his next directive, his words echoing with chilling authority. "These worlds shall remain apart until the last artifact is within my grasp! Bring me the Gauntlet of Space!!"
As the other generals prepared to move, Ion swiftly accessed her device and activated it, causing a series of more Arks to descend upon various Earths simultaneously. These mysterious black metallic objects which caused Radivores on Omega Earth to go insane, crashed down with an earth-shaking force, marking the continuation of Abraxas' plan to conquer the multiverse.
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Brasília, Brazil, Beta Earth
As Beta Raze made her way through the gathering crowd, curiosity mingled with a sense of duty. The crash site was chaotic, with police officers attempting to clear the area and establish some semblance of order. It was then that she noticed the strange object, partially buried in the ground, emanating an eerie aura that sent shivers down her spine.
Just as she reached for her radio to request backup, the ground beneath her feet trembled violently. The earth cracked open, and to her horror, Radivores began to emerge from the depths. Panic surged through every person in the area. One of the Task Force soldiers exclaimed through the radio, "Calling all units, we have a massive Radivore outbreak at the crash site! I repeat, a massive outbreak! Requesting immediate backup and containment team!"
Raze quickly relayed the dire situation through her comms to HQ. "Raze to HQ! I need some help over here! A hell lot of Radivores are going crazy!" Her voice quivered with urgency as the Radivores continued to pour out of the ground, threatening to overrun the area.
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Canberra, Australia, Tau Earth
Annoyed, Tau Yoru shot an irritated glance in the direction of the disturbance. Without a word, he gestured to a nearby K-SEC security officer, who recognized him as one of the renowned Valorant Warriors. The officer handed Yoru his Vandal, knowing that he would be better equipped to handle the situation.
Yoru and Skye exchanged determined glances, silently agreeing to put their date on hold and deal with the emerging threat. With their weapons at the ready, they sprang into action, working seamlessly together to eliminate the encroaching Radivores. Yoru's frustration fueled his resolve as he fired precise shots, while Skye used her abilities to provide cover and support.
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Berlin, Germany, Lambda Earth
Lambda Glitch stood guard over Killjoy and Cypher as they analyzed the mysterious object. Radivores closed in fast, and despite his efforts, Glitch couldn't protect his companions. Alongside Reyna and Neon, he fought on, to honor their memory and prevail against the Radivore threat, although unsure about their next move.
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The Headquarters, Alpha Earth
Upon their return to headquarters, the team of nine was met with an unusual sight: a mysterious metallic object had crash-landed on the island. While the headquarters is mostly underground and remained unscathed, the agents couldn't deny the need to investigate the unidentified object.
As they disembarked from the Vulture and approached the object, they noticed that other agents who had been at the base were already on the scene, ready to inspect the object.
Fade began to notice faint, unintelligible whispers emanating from the peculiar artifact. She extended her hand towards it, her fingers making contact with the strange surface. She closed her eyes, attempting to connect with the object's essence, hoping to unveil its true nature.
However, as her mind delved deeper into the artifact's mysterious energy, Fade's expression shifted into one of distress. Her brow furrowed, and her eyes darted beneath her closed lids as if witnessing something disturbing.
Suddenly, she gasped aloud and staggered back, her hand breaking contact with the object. She tumbled to the sandy ground, her breaths coming in ragged gasps. The terrible visions she had encountered left her shaken and drained.
Neon and Raze, quick to react, rushed to Fade's side, helping her sit up. Sage's concern was evident as she asked, "Fade, are you okay? What did you see?"
Fade slowly opened her eyes, her gaze distant as she tried to find words to describe her harrowing experience. "Darkness, destruction. It's the same nightmare I had back then," she managed to say, her voice trembling. "The end of time... it's coming!"
The agents exchanged worried glances, realizing that the artifact might hold more than they initially thought.
"Initial analysis shows it's emitting radiation," KAY/O reported. "While it doesn't harm humans, we have no idea how it might affect other entities."
As the agents processed this information, a new problem arose. Gekko's Radivore companions suddenly broke free from his control, and they lunged at the other agents, hostility in their eyes.
Deadlock, struck by panic, shouted at Gekko, "Hey! Do something about this!"
Exhausted and struggling, Gekko managed to focus his powers and shield the Radivores' minds from the radiation. The creatures reverted to their friendly selves, easing the tension.
"It's the radiation," Gekko panted, explaining the sudden change in behavior.
KAY/O chimed in, his voice steady and analytical. "Confirmed. The radiation is indeed the cause. If it continues unchecked and reaches Chile in 70 minutes, all Radivores will become hostile on a global scale."
"I'll warn Kingdom," Viper declared as she reached for a device. Brimstone, however, swiftly placed his hand on the device, preventing her from making the call.
"Trust in Kingdom has run thin, Viper, even if it's an emergency. You know that better than anyone. Better than I do," Brimstone stated firmly, a look of gravity in his eyes. He turned to address the other agents, and Phoenix watched him intently, awaiting their leader's decision.
With a serious expression, Phoenix asked, "What's the plan now, boss?"
Brimstone closed his eyes momentarily, a deep sense of realization washing over him. "I was blind," he admitted with frustration. "Kingdom said they were making the world better, but it's all just... bullshit. We need to plan our own move."
Viper nodded at Brimstone, concurring with him. He then glanced around and saw that most agents were present, except for Chamber. "Where's Chamber?" he questioned.
The whereabouts of the French agent was unknown to the team. Breach couldn't help but remark, "That asshole's already making his escape! He must've known about this shit."
Brimstone's expression darkened, but he decided to set aside the matter, recognizing that they couldn't afford to divert their attention to a single agent.
He began to delegate tasks to the team. "KJ, Cypher, KAY/O, find a way to neutralize or contain the radiation. The rest of you, we're spreading out to stand by in the surrounding cities. Radivores are lurking everywhere, be ready for anything."
The agents nodded in agreement and readied themselves for their respective missions. However, Omen noticed that Glitch's gaze remained fixed on the mysterious object.
"What's troubling you?" Omen asked, concern in his shadowy voice.
Glitch turned to see him, his expression heavy with foreboding. "When I sense danger, I also sense a way to escape it," he explained. His eyes returned to the object one last time, and he continued somberly, "But this danger I sense from this thing... there's no way out of it."
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Copenhagen, Denmark, Omega Earth
Omega Glitch and Fade made their way into the bunker. Glitch couldn't help but feel relieved to see a fellow hero in the bunker, Killjoy.
Killjoy approached them, her eyes filled with concern. "I'm glad you made it back in one piece," she said with a small smile.
Fade was eager to know if they have found a solution to the radiation issue. She wasted no time and inquired, "How much longer do you need, Killjoy?
Killjoy met Fade's gaze, her expression turned serious. "I've cracked it. I know how to neutralize the radiation. But I really need some time to build a device for it," she replied, ready to share her findings.
Before she could divulge the details, Raze and Breach barged into the bunker, their expressions reflecting a growing concern. Raze's voice was filled with urgency as she explained, "It's crazy out there. These Radivores just keep coming, and they're not going away. We can't stay here much longer!"
Breach nodded in agreement, his metallic arms tensed with readiness. "Yeah, it's like they know we're down here. We need a way out, and fast. If we stay here, they're gonna break in and kill us at some point!"
Brimstone approached from behind Killjoy. He understood the danger they are facing. "We need to evacuate everyone in the bunker to a safer location," he stated firmly, his demeanor calm.
Fade's brows furrowed as she recalled something. "I scouted the area. There's nowhere safe within reach," she warned, her voice filled with worry.
As they deliberated, Bilal, emerging from a shadowy mist, entered the conversation. "I know a way," he announced, his voice steady and filled with determination. He pointed at a pipe, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Crawl for six hundred meters and you'll reach a K/TAC base."
Killjoy, with a mix of skepticism and concern, addressed the practicality of the idea. "Commander, you know we have hundreds of citizens down here. Can they all fit, and can we ensure their safety in that darkness?"
Bilal nodded solemnly. "I made it there and back on my own," he assured her. "I'll guide them personally, and we'll take it one step at a time."
Brimstone interjected, "People can't turn into a mist like you, commander. They move slower, and we don't know when those creatures will breach the walls."
Bilal, determination in his voice, responded, "I know... But isn't it better to start moving now, even if we're not sure we can save everyone? We might at least save some people!"
Killjoy emphasized the danger once again, "We can't ignore the risk. If the Radivores breach the bunker while people are still in those pipes, it could be a deadly situation."
Amidst the ongoing debate, Glitch's gaze remained fixed on the gauntlet adorning his hand. He was acutely aware that using its powers would draw Abraxas' attention. Though he could transport everyone to safety using the gauntlet, doing so might just play right into Abraxas' hands.
As Glitch grappled with his internal dilemma, he felt a gentle tug on his trousers. Looking down, he met the wide-eyed gaze of a child who clutched an action figure resembling him. The child's innocent, terrified expression struck a chord within Glitch.
The child's concerned mother suddenly intervened and apologized, "I'm so sorry for interrupting. Please excuse us." Before they walked away, the little one mustered the courage to ask a poignant question: "You rescued me and mommy before. You will save us again, right?" Glitch's eyes widened at the profound sincerity in the child's voice.
Moments later, a warm, reassuring smile spread across Glitch's face, and he replied with unwavering determination, "Don't you worry, kid. I'll save everybody." It was a promise etched not just in words but in the very core of his being, for the hope of countless lives now rested on his shoulders.
Suddenly, Sova's voice came through their comms. "Legion, this is Sova, come in! The Radivores are heading towards the bunker. I repeat, all the Radivores are ignoring us! They're heading straight for the bunker!"
Bilal's jaw clenched as he exchanged a resolute look with Fade. "Sister, we have to move these people right now!" he asserted, a sense of urgency in his tone.
Though Brimstone and Killjoy initially hesitated, the gravity of the situation was undeniable. Reluctantly, they agreed to initiate the evacuation of the frightened civilians.
Glitch remained deep in thought, contemplating the burden placed upon him by the Gauntlet of Space. He understood that hiding from Abraxas would ultimately serve no purpose if there was no world left to protect, no people to save.
With conviction, Glitch turned to his allies and spoke, "Wait. I have a better idea."
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Omega Neon's electric powers were proving invaluable as she unleashed a barrage of devastating blasts, obliterating waves of Radivores outside the bunker. Her proficiency in handling her abilities made her a formidable force against the relentless foes. The air crackled with electricity as she dispatched even the largest and most numerous of Radivores with remarkable efficiency.
Yet, amidst the chaos of battle, Brimstone's urgent voice pierced through the comms, demanding her immediate attention. "Neon, get down here immediately! We need your help."
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The Headquarters, Alpha Earth
Killjoy, Cypher, and KAY/O huddled around the enigmatic object that had crash-landed near their base. As they meticulously examined the object, KAY/O's keen sensors and analytical processors began to detect something extraordinary.
The machine's synthetic voice reverberated with a note of astonishment. "Radianite concentration within this object is just absurd. It's more dense than anything I know, even my own body."
Killjoy's brows furrowed as she processed this information. "More Radianite than we could ever have imagined in a single object. No wonder it's so heavy."
Cyphe proposed a potential solution. "Killjoy, can you make a device to extract the Radianite from within the structure?"
Killjoy paused for a moment, contemplating the feasibility of such a task. "I can, but I need time for that. And time is something we simply don't have until the radiation envelops the entire world!" she exclaimed, a hint of panic in her voice.
Before they could delve deeper into the discussion, the atmosphere shifted into an eerie shade of purple, unsettling the agents as an ethereal figure descended from the skies. Resembling Astra in appearance, albeit lacking the Gem of Reality that their Alpha counterpart possessed.
Brimstone, Viper, and Sage swiftly exited the headquarters, drawn by the mysterious occurrence unfolding before them. Sage uttered a name in disbelief, "Astra?"
The figure continued its descent, hovering gracefully above the six agents. Her voice was calm and composed as she addressed them, offering cryptic tidings. "Rejoice, humans. I greet you with wonderful news. Your world is about to become a part of something new. Something wonderful."
Viper's grip on his Phantom tightened as she demanded answers. "Who are you?" she questioned, her stance reflecting a readiness for whatever may come.
With an otherworldly aura surrounding her, the figure introduced herself. "I am Nebula. I have come to take the Gauntlet of Space. Do you have it?" The gravity of her request hung in the air.
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The Colosseum, Rome, Italy, Omega Earth
Omega Neon had successfully planted the spike at the designated location. Her voice transmitted clearly through the communication channel to Brimstone and the rest of the team, delivering the crucial message, "Alright, spike is planted. What now?"
Glitch's response came swiftly, his voice filled with a sense of purpose, "Good job, Neon. Now, you gotta protect that spike with everything you've got. Keep the Radivores at bay."
Neon couldn't help but voice her confusion, "What's the point of this?"
Glitch's response was enigmatic, hinting at a larger plan, "You'll see. Just trust in the plan."
With unwavering determination, Neon took up her position, prepared to fend off the approaching Radivores. The spike's presence had drawn the creatures, and she understood that its significance extended beyond what was immediately apparent. As she readied herself for the impending onslaught, her commitment to the mission remained resolute.
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Copenhagen, Denmark, Omega Earth
Inside the bunker, tension hung heavy in the air as the walls showed ominous signs of cracking, indicating that the relentless Radivores were dangerously close to breaking through. The heroes of the Legion rallied, doing their utmost to gather the frightened citizens into the bunker's center, where they would be relatively safer.
Bilal, his anxiety palpable, approached Glitch with worry etched across his face. "I'm not sure about this," he admitted, sweat rolling down his temple.
Glitch met his gaze reassuringly. "Just trust me, Bilal," he said firmly, instilling confidence in his comrade.
As the cracks in the walls deepened, hinting at the imminent breach by the Radivores, Glitch quickly relayed instructions to Sova and KAY/O through the communication channel, "Get ready directly above the bunker."
He then contacted Neon, his voice laced with urgency, "Neon, has the spike exploded yet?"
Neon, fighting to keep her composure amid the mounting tension, responded, "Not yet, Glitch. Almost there."
Seconds felt like hours as anxiety permeated the bunker, and the citizens' fear continued to rise. Glitch could feel the weight of their apprehension pressing down on him, but he fought to maintain his resolve. He knew that giving in to negative thoughts was not an option.
Brimstone's voice crackled through the communication channel, his impatience evident, "Neon, how much longer?"
Neon, her focus unwavering, uttered, "Just a few seconds more!"
In that critical moment, as the walls finally gave way to the relentless tide of Radivores, Breach's voice rang out with urgency as he yelled, "NEON!!"
And finally, the word they had all been waiting for came through the comms. "Now!" Neon exclaimed.
Without hesitation, Glitch activated the formidable powers of his Gauntlet of Space. In an instant, heroes, citizens, and ATLAS soldiers alike were transported to the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, leaving the encroaching Radivores behind in a futile pursuit.
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The Colosseum, Rome, Italy, Omega Earth
The daring escape had been executed flawlessly, thanks to Glitch's quick thinking and the resolve of the Legion.
Amidst the echoing cheers of relief and the jubilant exchanges among the citizens, a sense of triumph washed over the group. Brimstone's vigilant gaze swept across the scene, confirming that everyone had been successfully transported, leaving no one behind.
In the midst of the collective sigh of relief, Fade and Bilal found solace in each other's arms, embracing tightly to savor the relief of their narrow escape. Sova, his demeanor typically reserved, offered Glitch an approving nod and a reassuring smile, acknowledging the success of their daring plan.
KAY/O moved to secure the spike, and Neon, with newfound understanding and admiration for Glitch's strategy, approached the group. She couldn't contain her enthusiasm as she spoke, "I see what you were after now, Glitch. It was a brilliant idea."
The aftermath of the spike's explosion was the way out for everyone. The detonation had not only killed countless Radivores caught within its blast radius but also elevated the city of Rome, now suspended mid-air. This ingenious move placed the city out of reach for Radivores on the ground, ensuring the safety of those above. Any remaining Radivores hovering in the sky could be systematically eliminated, guaranteeing a more secure environment for the people.
However, despite the temporary victory, Glitch couldn't find it within himself to crack a smile. He knew that his choice and actions, while solving one problem, had also unleashed a new and potentially greater danger—one that they would have to face in the near future....
Or perhaps... now.
As the heroes and citizens basked in their hard-won victory within the floating city of Rome, a sudden shift in the atmosphere sent shivers down their spines. The air seemed to grow heavier, and an eerie, ominous aura settled over the scene.
From the dark recesses of the shattered sky, a swirling vortex of dark energy began to manifest, coalescing into a menacing portal. Out of this rift, Abraxas emerged, his presence imposing and malefic. His eyes, filled with a chilling, otherworldly gleam, scanned the floating city below.
Brimstone's sharp gaze remained fixated on the malevolent being. And then, as if a veil had been lifted from his perception, he made a chilling realization. Abraxas bore an uncanny resemblance to Faust, the CEO of Kingdom Industries.
With a voice that sent shivers down the spines of all who heard it, Abraxas declared, "You meddle with powers you cannot comprehend, mortal. The Gauntlet of Space is mine by right, and I shall take it."
The heroes, their expressions a mix of dread and resolve, braced themselves for the inevitable confrontation with this formidable foe.
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To be continued