5

In your first days at MetaHuman, Electra briefed you on various security procedures. You call her now, and instruct her to withdraw the field agents—but you also include a codeword to indicate that you're in trouble. You trust her to pick up on the cue; ideally, she'll move the field agents out of sight but keep them close.

"Thank you," whispers the clone, failing to sense your deception. Then he goes silent.

Night has fallen by the time your warlocks manage to destroy the magical barrier. You accompany him to the exit of the warehouse, and beyond. Their work done, even the team of warlocks seems to be departing. Only Electra, Brett, and Leach remain.

"I won't forget this kindness," the clone says, quietly. "I'll do what I can to repay you."

And then a nine-inch dart lodges in his chest and delivers a massive electric jolt. It's followed by another. And another. The clone is strong, but even he collapses to the ground, unconscious. A van full of field agents roars from its hiding place in a nearby parking lot. In seconds, it skids to a halt before you, and a team of field agents securely binds the clone, loading him into the back of the van.

"Good to see you whole and healthy," Brett says. Then he nods down at the bound clone. "He won't be in any fit state to speak for several hours, I'm afraid."

"Thank you for your concern," you say. "And good work."

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