---

---

Echo the optical enhancers for Mr. Blaque finished yet; he made an inquiry as to it’s completionasked Delta of her Mistress
I finished those this morning.
Did you sense them before you tagged me? answered Echo with a question of her own

Delta downloaded Echo’s previous experience and was stunned by what she saw but even more so because at first it appeared to be a solitary individual but as it withdrew it displayed a complex gestalt colony nature as it was reduced into it’s individual parts and each part seemed a mirror of its cousins. Was it a nano colony? Heaven help them all if it were for such entities could be problematic to rid the local net of them.

I can still sense them and even though I can I find them a presence which extends beyond my perceptions; their number is of great concern. I will not count them because it would be energy, time spent for simple and pointless curiosity. They are obviously some escaped project and while no single one of them could even dream of resisting me as a whole I am in awe; I must make them understand me and discover what such complexity was meant for.

Delta waited a few moments to see if Echo would continue to speak and when she didn’t the android reconnected with her body.

---

---

Echo says the optical project complete Sir she answers in a relaxed perhaps even a bored tone of voice

---

---

Today was a new for Francis and his new wife Lara. Since witnessing her abilities, her value skyrocketed to the point that she could be favored more than his other wives with such a protective ability and in lust. Both he and Lara were still in bed but he turned looking at the clock knowing Ellen may have started breakfast on schedule. Instead of a normal wake up, sliding his hand under the blanket and up her gown, Francis wanted to give her a surprise wake up she couldn't ignore.

Paige felt Francis' hand and it pulled her from her happy dream to her reality and she moaned and let him do as he pleased. She could still enjoy the sex even if it wasn't with the one she loved. She let him 'wake' her up and she pushed him back and took her pleasure in turning the tables on him. Once she took the lead in the bedroom he seemed to be okay with it. He was one of those men that was in control all the time except in the bedroom. Paige gave him what he wanted. When she rolled off of him she smiled at him as he cuddled her to him. It was one of the only parts that made it less abhorrent to her. She loved to cuddle. She missed Darric.

While laying in his arms she asked him, "So what is this thing you need my help with?"

Francis stared at her before planting a kiss. Well....first off, I want to let you know that I'm willing to trust you and that being my wife, you'll have to work hard like myself. Now that you've shown that you're not only blessed in bed but also in ability, such as what you've shown me with your defensive skills. There's something I want to show you. he said to her. We are the chosen to......help....people. We purify them...along with others things which I'm going to introduce you to. Our activities.... he mentioned.

Paige stretched out, kissed him hurriedly and jumped out of bed. She ran to the bathroom giggling a little as a new bride might do. "I get the shower first!" She took her time in the shower. She got dressed and fixed her hair while he showered and got ready.

"Okay so where are we going? Please say food first, I'm starving." She said while applying her makeup.

Energetic, chipper, playful....this was not something he was used to being with his three other wives who showed more submissive, reserved nature but so far Lara was in good standings with him so he allowed it. She brightens and livens things up. All is well as long as she did what he said.

Letting her get her shower. He got up and grabbed a few articles of clothing to see what he'd wear for the day under his robe. He definitely didn't want to forget his book. When Lara came back out, he responded to her Yes...food would be fine....let's head to the dinning hall. Ellen should have the food ready for us. he said leading the way after getting washed up and dressed.

Paige walked with Francis holding his hand in hers and she let him lead her to the table. As per usual she followed his lead in every other aspect of their relationship. She waited for him to speak to her as he did his morning run through on the day's events. She looked up and glanced over at Angie and smiled softly at the young girl. She looked dreadfully uncomfortable. She was tiny and the baby was obviously going to be as big as she was. Paige was concerned for her. She looked back up at Francis, playing the doting new bride.

Coming into the hall and sitting Lara down, Francis walked towards her end of the table and looked at Angie who was right across from Lara. Good morning Angie... he said with a smile. He kissed her cheek right before sitting down himself. Hope you're having a good morning... he said to her and then looked to Lara So....the activities I told you about. We are all about doing the work to cleanse the dirt here in this city. I'm looking to build a new world where my family and I will lead everyone to prosperity. But...do you know what it takes sometimes to get the blessings you want? he asked Sacrifice....sacrificing of those who's blood would offer enough payment of forgiveness of sin. There's a number of ways we can do that. Let's say....there is someone who has no real purpose...he may be wasting his life not doing anything at all but being a smudge in society...so....we make use of him...does he have abilities? Can he be a great follower? Can he serve no other purpose but to give blessings for our cause by sacrificing his life for us? Well his blood would be accounted for. Just like any other undesirables...we make use of them.... he said even the parent less child...

Paige listened intently as anyone in her position would and she kept an agreeable expression on her face. When he started talking about others sacrificing their lives for them, she reached for her glass of water and drank slowly. She was certain that the curiosity that Lara would show him would be a private matter. His new bride would not want to look like she was questioning him so she kept quiet and nodded.

Looking on at her agreeing, he nodded with a smile I hope you understand that this is a job we take seriously and find as a privilege. But I shall show you around after we eat...which makes me wonder if Ellen is done with the food. he said.

After breakfast was served and they finished eating, he wanted to start the tour of the operations. One of them was the "purifying punishment" another was the "sacrificial alter." The alter was coming up first when they could hear singing. The congregation was singing as a blind person was brought up to the alter where they were tied down. The male who was over the person, had scars all over his body but he took out a knife and he slit the blind person's throat, killing them. As you see, this is our sacrificial alter...ones who are of no use to us other than to be sacrificed are brought here. Undesirables....they are sacrificed. And they are the ones who refuse to acknowledge the good we are doing here. The purifying punishment is the next stop. Come..."

Paige had known that they were into child napping and other illegal activities but she had no idea that they were murdering people. It looked as if the entire church was involved. When the man's jugular was slit it took a lot not to break her character. Her eyes widened and she knew he was watching her. She forced a half smile and looked at Angie who seemed to be unable to watch. Paige pulled a little bit of a Harley Quinn and she clutched onto Francis' hand and looked like an excited child.

"I can't wait to see how we purify them. I just know it must be something wonderfully spiritual." If Paige could have won an award for her acting she would have. She was very convincing. She whispered something into his ear and he smiled.

Francis couldn't be anymore happy. Before, Ellen and Angie had a hard time with this activity as they were witnessing something very dirty. Mary went along with whatever her husband wanted but for Lara to show this kind of support, it put a smile on his face. Good...I shall show you some of our chambers...but first, the punishment. Taking her hand he pulled her towards another room where yells and screams of pain echoed in the halls. If one wants to be forgiven...they must be punished. Opening the door there were whipping posts where 3 people, two men and one woman, were lined up and naked with blood dripping from their lashes they had all over their backs, butt, and back of their legs and arms.

I encourage everyone to stay pure if you're going to be in my organization and congregation. This is a must if my sheep strays away. he said.

Paige looked at the anguish of the people being flogged and she smiled while shaking her head. "What constitutes straying from purity?" She squeezed his hand a little and whispered, "I would hate to overstep or fall off of the edge and do something wrong." She said this with an emphasis on the word 'wrong.'

"What happens if they don't want to be forgiven? Sacrifice... I would imagine?" Paige licked her lips lightly and smirked just a little.

Watching the continuation of the whipping, Francis turned his head to look to Lara when she asked about what constitutes straying from purity? His face went into a stern expression Anything that is against the congregation. Lying within the organization, stealing among your brothers, unauthorized breeding or sexual activity....which can include one losing their virginity without permission from the one taking the lead, cheating your fellow brethren...attempting to cause division in the organization. Overstepping your role, slandering your fellow brothers and sisters here, and even treating your body poorly such as drinking too much or drug abuse. Also not conducting yourself modestly... he said.

When she asked what if one did not want to be forgiven, along with her guess of sacrifice, he nodded We don't need bad apples in our organization. We will either Sacrifice them or exile them into the dangers of this world...meaning they'll no longer have our protection.

Paige asked him about one that was concerning her. "I have a question. Unauthorized breeding? You mean married people have to get your blessing to be allowed to get pregnant? What happens if it is accidental? Is that considered God's will? I understand that it can be controlled for the most part but what about the women who can't help being really fertile? I only ask because I want to know as much as I can to understand."

Paige smiled reassuringly at him and let him lead her into the next room. She knew she had to get some time to take all of this in and get some info to Blaque. She felt a headache coming on and started to rub her temples a little. Her pallor was turning paler too. Paige dreaded what that meant. She could only hope it wasn't the flu and was just a plain old headache or cold.

Hearing her next question, Francis paused and stared at her before chuckling a little No, no, my darling Lara...once you're married and in my organization, you're already blessed. What I mean by unauthorized breeding is adultery, going outside of our organization. Having sex with random people who have no desire to be part of us, having sex with the undesirables that we capture to be slaves, mixing of races, and bestiality. What happens is that if we find out about your unauthorized breeding....we will take that child that was made through sin and cast them out and punish the one in our organization for their disgusting conduct. Like I mentioned before, we are all about purity. he said.

Paige nodded, "Alright," she tried to stay upbeat but her head was really hurting her. "I'm grateful to have that answered for me. I understand and agree wholeheartedly."

She realized what else he said, "Cast the children out? To where? They would actually be innocent wouldn't they?" She thought a moment and restated, "Well I guess they would not be pure as their creation was tainted." As she came to this conclusion she looked up at him to see if she was correct or not.

Francis nodded You answered your own question, my dear. putting his arm around her waist, sliding his hand on her butt. Come...let me show you where the undesired children are... taking her to the holding cells where the children they abducted are. The place was cold and dirty. Walking down the dark corridor, Francis had the dimmed lights turned on so that Lara could see the children that were held. These children here...they were poor, sick, unfortunate children that society didn't want. So...we gave them purpose....some....if needed, will be sacrificed for our blessing...while others....once they get older, will be lower slaves. Now....I realized I haven't told you about what you'll be doing yet. I'm going to need you to be our defender with your abilities. At times we do run into gangs who try to attack us when we are preaching and cleansing. So I'll need you to accompany our people when we are on "runs" to bring these children into our refuge. he said.

I would like for you to be an overseer as well for that. If we are going to raid another faction's territory, I will need you to be our support. I seek to end ones like Bishop and La Plaga...even the Dominovich Brothers but we will get into that later regarding those groups.

Paige's head was hurting so badly that she thought she misheard him. "Francis? Can I go lay down for a while? My head is pounding so hard it is making my eyes hurt." She looked pretty miserable.

Francis wanted to continue but he also wanted to make sure he considered his wife's needs as well. Alright...sure...I can bring some medication for your headache if you need? he suggested while helping her back to their room and to the bed to let her rest. Please...rest and get better my darling. I have business to attend to. I'll check on you a little later.

Paige took the medication and drank some water and lay down. She took a nap and then when she woke up she went into the bathroom and washed her face. She checked the apartment and went to her purse and pulled out her mascara which also doubled as a microphone that sent her voice message to Blaque and Darric.

The message would be delivered as a voice mail and she recorded it in a hurry. It recorded,

"This is not only a child napping and slavery ring it is a full blown cult. It includes the entire congregation. Murder is considered sacrifice and I've already witnessed a murder and the flogging of 3 people in the lower rooms. He wants me to be actively involved in oversight and defense of the kidnappings of 'undesirable' children. I don't know how long I'll be safe here but right now I'm okay. I would guess 300 in the operation total." She sent the message and deleted it from her end. It was now untraceable if he found the mascara.

Paige put her mascara on and finished her lipstick. It was another hour or so before Francis returned. By then her headache was only a low roar. She opted for soup and crackers in case it wasn't just a headache. She smiled when he came through the doorway. She thought if he weren't a pervert and a killer he might have been a really nice guy.

---

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

Duplicate

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N.E.R.O.N was relieved to know that then children would be taken into proper care after the mission. Standing up in order to prepare for his assignment, the automaton quickly notified his master of a thought of his. "I believe I will be forgoing Operation: Bust the Bullies, sir. This mission is not only the top priority for Vendetta Inc., but also for myself. Please consider me available at all times", the construct informed before leaving the table to properly prepare.

---

Making his way to his 'Maintenance room', a small closet outfitted with as much robotic and medical equipment as N.E.R.O.N could scavenge and receive from Blaque on a daily basis, the construct began scrubbing off the old blood and grime from his shield. As well, the A.I. stocked himself with medical equipment for the trials ahead, hoping they would not be needed today. With items checked and himself cleaned, N.E.R.O.N stood at attention in the main room.

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

As fun as that sounds dude, I'm gonna have to pass for right now. You place too much trust into that cabbage patch kid. You're going to be the reason why the boy will get captured or killed running these errands for you.

Willard is a good cover as a carrier. They won't expect a child like him carrying important information and items for me. Plus he has good maneuverability. Whatever we find out, there's a chance that this will be big case that will need cracking down. Too many children have been captured already and I refuse to let this continue. Blaque said.

Oh whatever bald-meister. We already have a woman who can cloak her appearance and a fucking shadow ninja....why not send them to get the info and eliminate the problem? Even P-baby(Paige) can handle this... The ones you mentioned are on missions already. This is just a pick up...nothing more....nothing less....nothing different than the usual.

Alright bro, we can go back and forth about this all day long. There are ones here who don't agree with having the little dude here with us but hey, you're the one running the show, I just hope you understand that all this is on your shoulders....oh! and next time you send me to fuck up an operation ran by the Black Lotus, send me some help next time....I had to burn down a whole block, almost injure innocent people and nearly get 80 bullets in my ass...

If I remember correctly, you were the one arrogantly spitting out that you can, as you quoted "handle all of them monkey cunts, bitches, douche holes, and ass ticklers?" I suggested that you take someone with you but you refused. Blaque said to Sonny. You should've sent someone anyway....fuck it....I'm going on a side mission. If you find out who is responsible and this is going to be some ass kicking fest...then...if I'm available, I'll join in. For now, I'm fucking off...

Sonny went to check the Bulletin and found the "Watch Dog" side mission as he stormed off from Vendetta and turned to Blaque You need a piece of ass...you're too uptight...bye bro... Sonny said heading off to handle the side mission.

Sonny was thinking to himself Hmm...with the connects we got, I should take Delta out on a date or something nice. I would ask Echo but I have no fucking clue what she looks like. Wait, can Delta date? I'll worry about that shit later. he contemplated while walking off to Mr. Nandati's store.

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It seemed the young boy would be joining them on this mission, much to her dismay. She shrugged it off. She trusted Blaque. That was odd, she thought. She trusted him. She rarely trusted anyone. Truth be told she didn't trust most of the people in the room with her, but she trusted Blaque enough to know he was good ideas. She knew he would get them through it, but she also knew that Willard's (and her own) safety was, in large part, in her hands.

She went over to her little corner of paradise in the hideout, where her computer was, her charger, and some other doodads. She plugged in her staff and her PocketHacker, as well as her disguise modifier. She would need to make sure all were fully juiced and functional before the mission. Her life depended on it.

She changed her eye color to a soft blue before she stepped over to Willard. She allowed Blaque to say what he needed, but she crouched down soon after and looked the kid square in the eyes. "Listen kid....I mean, Willard. It's not that I don't think you would do a good job, but we are going to be going to a place where they treat kids like you really badly. It can be scary. However, you'll have lots of people backing you up, including me. I'm going to be in disguise, but I'll show you what I'm going to look like so you know and if you ever feel, at any point, that you aren't up for this, or are scared, you come find me and I'll help you out and we'll get you out of there. Our priority is the kids and we will get them out. I promise, but I am not about to have you placed in danger. Ok?" She gave the kid a sympathetic smile, so he would know she meant every word.

---

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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Darric went into his private apartment behind the pub and got ready for his mission. He decided not to shave. It gave him a little of a scruffy look that went well for criminals. He gave his hair that slightly greased look with some gel. After that he walked naked into his bedroom and threw on some jeans and a tank top then put on his biker boots and his leather jacket. He was actually very much at home in this look. After he filled his pockets with his essentials he walked out and went back into the debriefing room and went over to Rose and Willard. "You guys almost ready?"

He could see how excited Willard was and how R0se obviously disapproved of his participation. Darric was all business and he reassured R0se of Willard's safety. "Don't worry about him, we'll have his back and we won't allow him to get hurt." He looked her in the eyes as he high fived Willard. "Right little buddy?" He grinned at the boy.

---

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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After dealing with his bladder, the white-haired child merrily skipped back into the meeting room, overflowing with joy that he was included in his first ever official mission. R0se knelt down, looking the boy in the eyes and spoke of the work ahead of them.

"I am not about to have you placed in danger. Ok?" The woman's smile warmed Willard, knowing that she wanted to look out for him in case there was any trouble. He watched as her color shifted to a soft and pleasant hue, but there was still a sharpness to it, as if she still was worried about what they were getting into.

"Don't worry Ms. Rose, I'm not worried 'bout nothin' gettin' me!" Willard smiled, meeting her gaze with soft eyes. "I got you 'n Mr. Darric 'n Mr. Tamashi all helping, so I'll be fine!" His words left his mouth with firm assurance, yet still playfully. Willard turned and saw Mr. Darric enter, his color warming the surrounding air, but Willard couldn't help but notice the small bit of green that tinted the sides, off-putting the otherwise positive expression on Mr. Darric's face.

After Mr. Darric reassured R0se of Willard's safety, Willard's mind somehow wandered away from everything going on around him, far away, to something that the boy hadn't remembered in a very long time.

---

"Begin log... Subject oh-four seven three, temperamental manipulation management operation. Currently the subject in under heavy anesthetic - if everything goes accordingly, and if what Dr. Jenson said is right, the latest model of electro-nervous transmitters will be able to pacify heavy influxes of emotional nueral activity, and even eliminate the... Negative impulses that are cast by the subject. Further data will be recorded post-op."
"You really think this will work right, doc? I mean, what Werner said--"
"I have absolute faith in Dr. Jenson, Veronica. I wouldn't be doing this to... To my son if I knew it would only hurt him. I may be a scientist trapped in my lab for years on end, but I still have my humanity."
"I... I guess you're right. It just seems like such a far leap for the kid - and how will we know he'll be able to handle it?"
"We've had Werner and his associates working on this thing for several years now. He's analyzed all of the readings Will produced from minor emotional impulses to some of his highest... And most dangerous. All of the data from the transmitters will correspond and counteract any high levels of temperamental disorder that the boy puts off on another individual. Now then... I figure we should get this under way before he wakes up."

It's so dark...

...

... Mommy?

"Vince, what the hell??"*SLAM* - click, click-- *SMASH*
For fuck's - Sara, what in God's name??"
"Don't give me that! There is still a child here, dammit, you can't just risk this sort of operation!"
"Son of-- Guards, get her out of here-- Now!"
*THUMP-- CRASH*
"How could you do this to your own son!?" *SLAM*

...

"... Check neural impulses - Make sure the boy is still under."
"Y--... Yes, doctor..."

... Daddy...?
"Breathing and heart rate both increased; supplying adequate anesthetics to prevent waking..."

Eh-- Ow...

"... I... I guess I'll start the procedure... Grab the... And..."

---

Willard found himself in his bed, leaning up against the wall. He looked around - everything seemed to be in place. He walked out from the curtain that blocked the room and peered around the room. Everyone who was there before still remained, and didn't seem at all too concerned about his absense.

"I guess I fell asleep," he muttered to himself before skipping over to where Mr. Darric and R0se stood waiting for the mission.

@King Tai@Necrophage@Gutshot@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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Hearing the confirmation from Delta, Blaque nodded. Thank you, I'll get them immediately. he said while he looked over to Darric, R0se, and Willard encouraging each other. He turned back to N.E.R.O.N who spoke about foregoing the Bash the Bullies mission. He didn't mind that at all. Blaque was simply grateful that most of his team would make themselves available for whatever case that needed attention.

With everyone making their preparations, Blaque excused himself after N.E.R.O.N left to get things ready. Getting his upgraded lenses, Blaque grabbed his black blade anti-metal sword. And for a sticky mission like this, he needed his Equalizer. He went to pull his firearm out of his secured storage, sliding a full magazine into his gun and grabbing 3 more regulars along with one extended magazine for his gun's rapid fire function. With his weapon ready, he slid it into a holster and held on to his sword.

Next, he needed his upgraded lenses to help with detective mode scanning and special targeting. He went to retrieve his new shades and afterwards, walked off to leave Safe Haven and stood outside looking to his left and his right at the stench of the alley they were in. With a slight sigh and the wait being over.....

Okay team....it's time. If everyone remembers their roll in this objective, see you at Sleepy Hill....Darric, R0se, Willard.....you're up first... Blaque said on the communicator, heading towards their destination.



Not long after leaving from Safe Haven, Blaque was about a block away from the orphanage, staring at the building. He was planning on waiting until Darric, R0se, and Willard made their way in and Delta screwing up their surveillance along with Tamashi infiltrating before going in himself. He was on the communicator checking in on Echo and Priest while waiting Echo..Priest...I'm a block away from the building. Once Darric, R0se, Willard, and Tamashi make their way in, Let me know when their security is disrupted. Do you copy? he said to them. Delta, I'm actually going to need you to be my back up if by chance they have children in there capable of overpowering me.

Blaque trusted that both N.E.R.O.N and Bob would be ready to rush in the moment things definitely got rough for the group. Right outside the building, a guard could be seen walking around the building, coming from the sides and making his way to the front with a flashlight just to check the premises. There were surveillance outside ready to catch whatever or whoever approached the place. Everything seemed quiet and there were no signs of any unexpected guests coming through so, this should be turn out in Vendetta's favor...but only one could hope...either way...show time.

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Darric used his burner phone to call an old illegal business associate named Radar to help him make contact with the Caretaker. Radar had no idea that his associate Daniel Varicke was not who he said he was. With a little encouragement he agreed to make a call and verify him with the Caretaker. Darric got off of the phone and told them that they were waiting for a call and then they could head to the orphanage.

In the meantime Darric looked at R0se and asked her, "Okay R0se I need to know who you are going in as and how old you are going to be. I'll need background information on both your and Willard's undercover persona's. I'll need your names, ages and you will both have some sad story that Daniel won't give a damn about. Do think on those and be ready when I ask for them."

---

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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"Send me a text with the name of the bar you want your beer from, Tammy. I'll meet you there," said Gil. If they weren't reconnoitering that evening then there was something he needed to fetch first. He had learned very early into his career why Sun Tzu was required reading for the agency: why "No plan survives first contact with the enemy" also were words worth memorizing.

He had planned to get mugged. With just enough money in his pocket to lower the thugs' suspicions a little (if they found nothing in your pockets then you were hiding your cash in your socks, and so on), they'd run off satisfied and be on their merry way. And in doing so they would have told Gil three things: their numbers, their modus operandi, and last, their surroundings. With Tammy posing as the member of a rival gang, putting a bullet through a single head, at some later date, from an unseen place on one of the nearby roofs, a message would have been passed along with minimal violence and mess. No one had to risk getting surrounded and outmatched; no one was walking away with missing teeth.

Now the robot was coming. Now there was going to be open conflict in the streets, and frankly, a sniper wasn't needed at all; Tammy could hide in NERON's chest cavity and neither would be put in harm's way. All danger had subsided, and so had all subtlety, which, while good for the streets, was not so fortunate for a man who needed food to eat, and money to buy food. So as Gil passed the bulletin board again, he scanned the Burn the Kitchen entry one last time. Taking note that it gave no real insights into location, time, or any other details which Gil could use to find one of the "chefs," he realized that one would take some time. So he remembered Mr. Nandati's name, and resolved to ask Blaque about the address in just a little while, via phone.

He'd slip away once the fighting started. He wasn't needed. With that settled, he began toward his room, to grab his coat and briefcase.

---

---

She thought hard about what disguise she should wear. She also supercharged her gear on the off chance she needed to use them. She wouldn't be able to keep them on her person, but she could have them stashed, just in case. She would have to give them to Darric.

She also thought of Willard. She would do her best to make sure the two stayed together through this. She wasn't sure if they separated boys and girls, but perhaps she could convince them, or Darric could, that siblings needed to stay together. It would be better for them in the long run.

As she finished up, she met with Darric and went over her disguise, "I'll be going as a 12 year old girl. I figure older would be better. I will try to mimic Willard's look as closely as possible to pass off as a sibling. Here is what I have in mind. She showed Darrric the disguise. The girl had long hair the same shade as Willard's and slightly darker green eyes and a tanner skin tone, but the details were there that they looked similar. She closed it out and handed off her gear, "Keep this for me, would you? In case I need it later."

---

@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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For a man that obsessed over magic Priest found himself using technology almost as much. Ah, modern conveniences. He dialed in the number of his generous contact. A gentle, lovable voice answered. "This is Laura."

"Lauretta! How wonderful to hear your voice again." Priest chimed happily. Laura was possibly the most Christ-like person he knew of. She didn't head an orphanage or anything like the maniacs he was about to go up against but Priest'd be damned and pickled in a barrel if she didn't come up with the right way to take care of these kids. It was almost as if all she could think of was others. Of course Priest would never believe it, being a vain individual as he was. He couldn't understand her devotion but he had serious respect for it.

"Oh, Saul, darling. How are you tonight? I was just finishing up these cute sweaters." Laura said. She often felt like an aunt that he never had.

"I'm doing great. Just relaxing after a long day. And please Lauretta, please stop calling me that." Priest answered. Solomon was his given name. One he hadn't used for years but each time he wound up calling Laura for a favor she never seemed to remember that he didn't use that name anymore. She was a loose end of Priest's old life that he couldn't tie. How could he? She was such a sweetheart.

"But why give up your real name, honey? It's such a shame. Besides, you keep calling me Lauretta, you know everyone calls me Laura." Stubborn as usual she kept pushing it. Priest couldn't be mad at that, not after personally knowing the lady. He'd almost jump in front of a bullet for her. Almost.

"We've had this conversation before, you know why I can't use that name. I do relent though. I'll call you Laura, just call me Priest." The alias itself was more of an afterthought. There was Monk at first but he wasn't taking any kind of vows and he certainly didn't want to be remembered as a clean freak. Then there was Pastor, that didn't really fit though. It reminded him of too much that he didn't really care to remember. Priest was generic, it fit in almost every facet of religion and even associated with magic in many cultures. It would do.

"Oh alright. I can't argue with that voice." There it goes, that loving response. "So, sweetie, what did you call old Laura for? And don't tell me you just wanted to talk. That's not like you, hon."

"You are spot on as usual, Laura. I wish this were a time we could just chat for a moment." He lied. Priest may not like speaking without profit or entertainment but these next few moments would be important. Laura wasn't a fool even if she acted like it. She could tell if he were to start lying out of his ass. Maybe it was that motherly third eye. "I need some transportation and placement for orphans. Possibly a lot of them." Laura paused for a moment as if waiting for Priest to add more.

When Priest hesitated she finally asked one word. "Why?"

The ex-con man felt a little flustered. "Well, it's because the orphanage they're at is abusing them. I don't know to what extent but there's definitely human experimentation involved."

"Oh my." That was it, she was convinced. The mercy response had been struck. "I'll see what I can do, just let me know where and when. We can't let this continue." Laura scratched something down in the background. "Priest, just don't let me know what you have to do or see in there. It would hurt me to know if it's any worse than I can already imagine."

"Sure thing, Laura. I'll text you the details. You brighten the world, so please take care of yourself." Hmm, not a lie.

"Oh, stop you. You'll make me blush. Talk to you soon, Priest." She hung up. Priest leaned back in his recliner, musing over something.

"Going to have to make a dreamy donation for that one." Laura was a charity case. She wouldn't accept a payment from him. So he'd find a way anyways. What? Priest isn't that heartless.

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"Echo..Priest...I'm a block away from the building. Once Darric, R0se, Willard, and Tamashi make their way in, Let me know when their security is disrupted. Do you copy?" Blaque ordered.

Priest answered on the primary channel. "Loud and clear, Fearless Leader. My Rook is getting into position with our evac. I have eyes on Willy." He looked at the little shirt he'd taken from the boy absently, ball in his other hand. "Echo, systems are on you. I'll keep you posted on the situation Blaque. You will get alerted of anything suspicious."

Priest switched the channels over. "Tinman! Bob is going to be here until the climax of the evening, you should stand by with him and wait for our word." He finished by transmitting the street location mentioned to N.E.R.O.N. so he could get there. "It's only a few streets over from the orphanage so we don't attract attention. We will, however, be able to roll through once things really get swinging." He finished.

@FantasyChic@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@Wick@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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Things seemed to be in position so far when Priest spoke up. Blaque responded good...just stay alert and ready everyone. he said on his communicator while looking on at the building and waiting for the first move to be made.

Inside the orphanage...There was a woman standing in the office in front of her boss who had news for potential business...

Sir...seems we have someone interested in our operations. The name's Daniel Varicke.

"Who the hell is he and how did he find out about us?"

He's a dealer in human trafficking like us. An underground contact of his just called. I'm pulling up his profile...

"Hm...and when are they wanting to meet? I wanna see his profile. I know we are looking for clients but...for someone to seek me out...I already have my fair share of dirty cops."

Asap. From what I was told...Daniel have some children he wanted to bring to us. He's not far from here. They could meet tonight. Trust me sir, if he was a dirty cop, you would've known. One thing I realized about dirty cops is the fact that they are not afraid to let people on the wrong side of the law know that they're dirty cops....well...some.

"Fine...set up this meeting. I want to see who this guy is and his motives. Just in case...I'd like the twins to be present." the man said.

Yes sir...here's the profile on him... pulling up the phony profile that was in the system.

Making the call, the woman used the contact information waiting for an answer from Daniel/Darric to set the meet up time.

@pugbutter

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The following morning the caretaker's girl had called back and set up the meeting. Darric had rounded up his group and they had loaded up and moved into position. He kept cool and made sure they were secure and that he saw every single one of the thugs that were keeping security on the orphanage. He pretended not to notice them but he smirked knowingly.

Darric waited in the older model Olds' '98 sedan. It was a beast of a car. It was Darric's undercover vehicle and he really loved it. He had minted it out and added AC and updated the stereo system in it. It was large enough to lay a grown man down in the backseat with ease. He looked into the mirror and checked on the passengers he was carrying.

"Willard, it's okay to be nervous Just follow R0se's lead." He had stashed R0se's gear and he would make sure she could get to it if she needed it. He glanced over R0se's cover and nodded. "You good R0se?" He gave her a business as usual look and he opened his door and then he opened the backseat door for them. The kids were to act scared but seem to be unaware of how much danger they were actually in, ignorance is bliss kind of thing.

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@King Tai@Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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When the time came to begin the mission Jonathan was ready. He was the first in the area so he waited for Darric, R0se, and Willard to arrive in the vicinity before he made his move. While he waited he watched the movement patterns of anyone he could see and did his best to identify as many of the individuals around as he could. Once the three arrived at the orphanage Jonathan made his way towards the building. First he switched to Level 3 then he attempted to see if there were any open or unlocked windows relatively close to the front of the building.

If he couldn't find any he would just use a small device to cut a hole in the glass to unlock the window. Once inside Jonathan made sure to hide any evidence of his entry. He traveled towards the entrance and used the shadows to lay in wait for his allies.

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R0se stepped out in her disguise. She looked very similar to Willard, but had noticeable differences that show they had parents at one point in time. She went with some battered looking clothing that looked as if it had been lived in for a week or so. Despite her young appearance, she spoke the same "We're good here. Let's get this done as soon as possible. I'll change my voice when we get closer to the door." She made it a fact she held on to Willard's hand, something an older sister venturing with her brother into an unknown situation would do.

She was kind of nervous. Not so much about what she could do, she trusted her skills, but there were unknown variables at play. She couldn't be sure Willard wouldn't panic or that they could be caught. She had enough juice to last a bit and, if needed, her gear was safe and she could access it if she really needed to, but she still didn't know fully what to prepare for.

Either way, no backing out now. She followed Darric as they went towards the Orphanage.

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During the drive to the orphanage, Willard kept thinking back to the dream he had, even though there were no images he could recollect from it. The dialogue, the tonality in daddy and mommy's voices... He figured he could ask Blaque about them later, if only he could remember exactly what was said. Willard blinked a couple of times and looked around a bit - he sat directly behind Mr. Darric, noting the man's getup as well as how his color was brightening. He looked over to R0se, who sat beside him, her color brightening as well - the nervous air tingled a bit at Willard's skin, tickling the hairs on the back of his neck and sending a small shiver down the boy's spine.

It's okay, Willy, R0se and Mr. Darric are here for you, and Mr. Tamashi will be inside somewhere. Why are you starting to worry now? The boy kept reassuring himself, but the anticipation kept tugging at his throat, yanking the calm he had before away and throwing it out the window, into the street. Willard glanced around again as they came to a stop in front of their destination, the excitement finally sinking in. The mission was about to begin.

After Mr. Darric had opened the door for R0se and Willard to get out, the boy let his 'sister' take his hand as he tried to play the part he was told to - with his free hand, he took the end of his sleeve from the shirt he wore just a few sizes too big and began to rub his eyes, reddening them so he could begin tearing up. He blinked a bit to keep the tears at bay, but still giving off the impression of too many sleepless nights and none of them being too happy. As the three of them walked, Willard made sure to stay as close to R0se as possible, his head just a few inches from her shoulder, keeping his eyes down as he watched his steps. Now I just have to wait until R0se says the word, he thought, trying to come up with a plan in his head so as to make sure all of the kids got out when it was time for them to get outside.

I'm ready, Blaque - I'm sure I'll do a good job!

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@RumikoOhara@Gutshot@Necrophage@pugbutter

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Assignment: Infiltrate and liberate orphanage: @Gutshot@Necrophage@FantasyChic@Wick@Vashonn@RumikoOhara@pugbutter@alexfangtalon

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With surveillance catching sight of a car coming through not too long after Madame Ginger called, The woman headed to the entrance of the orphanage as a guard came up to Darric and noticed R0se and Willard. "Mr. Varicke....welcome....I'm sorry but I need to check..." the guard said patting him down and looking at the children to take a look at them and making sure they didn't have anything on them either. While this went on, the camera stayed on them until they were clear to enter. "Please...come on in." The guard said opening the door to let them into the building.

The moment they came in, the clacking of high heels sounded towards the three as the woman spoken Daniel Varicke....thank you for coming to meet with us. My name is Madame Ginger Durand. And the children.... Ginger looked Willard and R0se up and down for a moment pausing to examine them by circling the two They seem healthy...please...follow me. The Caretaker is eager to meet you and the children you brought. I must warn you...Caretaker is not fond of children looking him directly in the eyes. Also...he will not tolerate sarcasm...so please refrain from either of those. Children are not to speak unless spoken to. I assume these two children are tamed enough not to disobey an order? It's for their safety... She said walking down the hall looking back at the three while heading to Caretaker's office.

After the three got in, on Jonathan's end, there security on the inside was not heavy but some doors needed keys to enter. The security room only had one man monitoring everything. there were a few cameras throughout the inside of the building but still maybe each floor had 1 or 2 guards doing their routine walk around. The majority of the children were in the family room area, very few in their rooms, possibly being punished for their behavior. Either way, the less people to get in the way, the better. Tamashi was just needed to eliminate the guards for the time being along with finding the security room to guarantee that the enemy didn't have a visual of the other infiltrators.

Now was the time for Blaque and Delta to make their way to the building and get in from the back. Their role was not only to screw up the systems but to find the lab and the bunker to destroy the enemy data and means to operate on the children along with the possible holding chambers and capsules they keep the children in. Blaque waited for confirmation from Echo and Priest that the their systems were down so to not get detected, coast was clear and that everyone that were suppose to enter in first have done so.

Coming from the lab, Dr. Lars Weber heard about the new arrivals that were suppose to come in as he's usually the one to give them a closer examination. He removed his gloves, tossing them to the side just to grab another set. As a custom, he needed to meet the children the moment they arrive and hearing that there's a human trafficker bringing them in and there being a meeting with Caretaker, Lars headed straight to Caretakers office.

(Kinda rushed this post lol and we may need to do some collabs for these next parts.)

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Now that the three other infiltrators had made it inside it was time to get to work. First, thing Jonathan did was figure out where each of the patrolling guards were. It didn't take him long as he stayed in Level 3. He then took note of each of the security cameras. He quickly and swiftly went after the patrolling guard that he deduced was the highest ranking out of them in hopes the guard had some keys.

Jonathan waited til they were out of sight of cameras or another person and made his move. He switched to Level 2 and used his increased strength to knocked the guard out quickly. Jonathan then moved the body to an unlocked door which happened to be a small storage room. He restrained the guard and took whatever he could find off of them.

After that Jonathan made his way to the area where the security room was most likely located. He unlocked the door with whatever means were necessary. After he got in the room he made his way in and took out whoever was inside. Then he whispered over the comms, "Security room is under our control." The next thing he did was restrain whoever had been inside and investigated the cameras and anything else he found in the room.