CHAPTER 12: A.I CONFRONTATION 3

Continuation...

MORINJO

John takes off his shirt and shoes, leaving only his trousers on. He steps forward to the center of the training room, his expression calm but focused.

"Are you ready for this, John?" Leonard asks, green lightning flickering faintly around him.

"To be honest with you, I'm not," John replies with a wry smile. "But I have no choice. Orders are orders."

Leonard smirks, rolling his shoulders. "Fair enough. Let's begin."

As soon as the words leave Leonard's mouth, he sprints forward, a blur of green lightning crackling through the room. But before Leonard's fist connects, John's body begins to shift. His eyes glow crimson, his fingernails extend into razor-sharp claws, and his frame grows larger and bulkier, turning a sickly green. By the time Leonard's punch is about to land, John is no longer himself—he's Lycon Wolf.

The massive beast catches Leonard's fist mid-strike, his claws effortlessly gripping Leonard's hand. The room goes silent except for the faint hum of Leonard's lightning.

"I'm Lycon, not Joseph," the wolf growls, his voice deep and guttural.

Before Leonard can react, Lycon hurls him across the room like a ragdoll. Leonard crashes into the wall, the impact leaving cracks in the concrete. He falls to the ground but quickly scrambles to his feet, clutching his side and wincing.

Lycon Wolf lets out a deafening roar, baring his fangs and flexing his claws. His hulking frame radiates raw power.

"That's what I'm talking about," I mutter, unable to hide my excitement.

Leonard shakes off the pain, his green lightning sparking even brighter now. "Is this everything?" he asks, his tone challenging. "Show me what else you've got."

Lycon snarls, his red eyes narrowing. "You asked for it."

Leonard charges again, this time zigzagging unpredictably as his lightning scorches the floor beneath him. Lycon Wolf charges too, his massive frame moving with surprising speed. The moment Leonard's lightning-charged punch collides with Lycon Wolf's claw, the room erupts with a flash of green and red energy. The force of their clash sends a shockwave rippling through the training room, making everyone watching step back.

Leonard skids to the side, his feet dragging against the floor, but he recovers quickly. Sparks flicker off his fists as he narrows his glowing green eyes. Lycon Wolf, unfazed, growls deeply, his red eyes locked on his opponent.

"You're strong," Leonard admits, lightning crackling along his arms. "But strength alone won't win this."

Lycon Wolf snarls, baring his sharp fangs. "Let's see if speed can save you, little lightning man."

Leonard smirks and dashes forward, a green blur barely visible to the naked eye. Lycon Wolf doesn't wait—he leaps into the air with surprising agility for his size, claws extended. Leonard zips to the side just in time, but Lycon twists mid-air, landing with a thunderous crash and swiping at Leonard.

Leonard ducks under the claw and counters with a lightning-charged uppercut, striking Lycon Wolf's jaw. The blow sends the wolf staggering back, but it's not enough to bring him down.

Lycon Wolf shakes his head, blood dripping from his lip, and laughs—a deep, guttural sound. "You pack a punch. Let's see how you handle this."

With a feral roar, Lycon lunges forward, his claws raking the air in a flurry of attacks. Leonard dodges, weaving through the strikes with impressive agility, but it's clear he's on the defensive now.

"Getting tired already?" Lycon taunts, swiping again and narrowly missing.

Leonard grits his teeth, his breathing heavier. "Not even close."

He charges up his lightning, the green sparks intensifying as he spins into a whirlwind of strikes, aiming for Lycon's exposed torso. One blow connects, sending Lycon Wolf sliding backward. But instead of collapsing, Lycon digs his claws into the ground, halting his momentum.

"That all you've got?" Lycon growls, his voice deep and guttural.

Before Leonard can answer, Lycon barrels forward on all fours, moving with terrifying speed. Leonard tries to dodge, but Lycon is ready. He feints left, then slams his shoulder into Leonard, sending him flying across the room.

Leonard crashes into a pillar, cracks spiderwebbing along its surface. He coughs, struggling to stand, as Lycon stalks toward him.

"Face it, speedster," Lycon says, his voice rumbling. "You can't outrun power."

Leonard clenches his fists, lightning sparking in defiance. "I don't need to outrun you."

He launches himself forward in a last-ditch effort, moving faster than ever before. His fist, crackling with green lightning, streaks toward Lycon's chest. But Lycon is ready. With a mighty roar, he catches Leonard's punch mid-air, the lightning searing his paw but not stopping him.

Leonard's eyes widen. "Impossible—"

Lycon doesn't let him finish. With a massive swing, he hurls Leonard across the room like a ragdoll. Leonard slams into the ground, rolling to a stop. He tries to rise, his limbs trembling, but collapses back down.

Lycon Wolf approaches, his heavy footsteps echoing in the stunned silence. He places one clawed hand on Leonard's chest, pinning him to the ground.

"Yield," Lycon growls, his red eyes boring into Leonard's.

Leonard struggles, his green lightning flickering weakly. Finally, he exhales sharply, his head dropping back against the floor. "Fine. I yield."

I step forward, clapping once. "Impressive, Lycon. Your transformation gives you an edge, but don't let it make you overconfident. Leonard, you fought well, but raw speed isn't enough against overwhelming strength."

Lycon retracts his claws, stepping back and allowing Leonard to sit up. Leonard glares at him, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth.

"You got lucky," Leonard mutters.

Lycon chuckles, reverting to his human form in a ripple of green energy. "Luck had nothing to do with it."

"Both of you did well," I say, addressing the group. "These matches aren't about winning or losing. They're about learning. And today, you've both learned the value of adaptation. That's what will make you stronger."

MR. SMITH

The G.A.L.A.X.Y. Jet touches down at Montana's airport with a smooth, practiced grace. The hum of its engines fades as the pilot carefully brings it to a halt. I glance out the window, watching the faint shimmer of heat rising off the tarmac. Moments later, we disembark, the cool Montana breeze a welcome change from the cabin's controlled air. Our journey continues by land. My driver, a seasoned professional, navigates the quiet roads as Daniel Rodriguez, my steadfast second-in-command, and I sit in the back. Daniel, ever the pragmatist, focuses on his tablet, reviewing data we retrieved on Cyberman's latest movements. I, however, let my mind wander, mentally preparing for what lies ahead.

Minutes later, the silhouette of the Ultimate Tower—a marvel of modern architecture and the home of Earth's protectors—rises in the distance. Its sleek, reflective surface gleams under the late afternoon sun. As we approach the entrance, the enormity of the mission we're about to embark on weighs heavily.

We step out of the car, the crisp sound of boots on pavement breaking the silence. At the massive door, I locate a small button on the panel to the side and press it. A moment later, a calm, digital voice greets us.

"Greetings to you both," the voice says. "I am Travis, the Artificial Intelligence managing the Ultimate Tower. Who are you, and what is your purpose here?"

I raise an eyebrow, impressed. "Artificial Intelligence? Fascinating," I say with a small smile. "I'm Mr. Tyler Smith."

"And you, man without hair?" Travis asks, directing its focus to Daniel.

Daniel's brows furrow, his hand instinctively brushing over his clean-shaven head. "What? I'm Agent Daniel Rodriguez, second-in-command."

The door slides open with a soft hiss.

Daniel glances at me, incredulous. "Did the A.I. just insult me?"

I chuckle, shaking my head. "I wouldn't call it an insult. Ever since I've known you, you've kept your head as smooth as a billiard ball. Travis is just observant."

"Fine," Daniel grumbles. "Let's get inside."

We step into the Tower's sitting room, and the sight before us takes my breath away. The room is a masterpiece—gleaming walls adorned with stunning artwork, elegant furniture arranged with meticulous care, a massive television, and a small but sleek table at its center.

"Wow," I breathe, turning slowly to take it all in. "This is incredible."

Daniel smirks. "Don't let it fool you, sir. It's nice, but our G.A.L.A.X.Y. plane? Now *that's* something to brag about. Your invention is in a league of its own."

I nod, appreciating the compliment. "Thank you, Daniel. Let's find—"

Before I can finish, a tall figure strides into the room. His presence is commanding, and his sharp eyes betray a mind that's always calculating.

"Good evening, gentlemen," Morinjo says, his voice calm but firm. "It's good to see you both, though I must admit, we weren't expecting you."

I step forward, extending a hand. "We know this is unannounced, but we wanted to check in. How are the preparations for the upcoming battle?"

Morinjo's brows knit together. "Upcoming battle? Are you referring to Cyberman and his forces?"

"Exactly," I confirm.

Daniel chimes in. "We know about Newark. Cyberman's forces attacked, but you and your team defended the citizens. We're here because we want to help."

Morinjo studies us, his expression unreadable. "How do you know about Newark? None of my team informed you."

"We have resources," I say with a hint of a smile. "Satellites, intelligence systems... and two very talented engineers you know as Liam and Alexander. They're more than just tech experts."

Morinjo crosses his arms, still wary. "Why are you here?"

Daniel steps forward, his tone earnest. "We're here to help, Morinjo. You and your team can't fight this battle alone. You need allies."

For a moment, Morinjo says nothing, his eyes darting between us. Finally, he exhales, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "Fine. Come with me."

He turns and strides toward another room, his long coat flowing behind him. Daniel and I exchange a glance, then follow closely.

We step into the conference room, which buzzes with quiet intensity. The holographic projector in the center casts a pale blue glow over the faces of those gathered. Each person at the table is vital to the plan, their unique skills and powers a key to survival.

I take my place at the head of the table, scanning the team. To my right, Daniel reviews the digital blueprint of his new machine gun, his focus razor-sharp. On my left, Morinjo—known as Path Finder—leans forward, his gaze locked on the hologram of New York City where Cyberman's forces have taken control of the Chrysler Building.

"Time is not on our side," I say, my voice cutting through the room. "Cyberman is fortified, and his armies are spreading fast. Our first priority is evacuating civilians."

Jessica, the fierce and resourceful Black Cardinal, leans back in her chair, arms crossed. "The G.A.L.A.X.Y. plane is ready. I've coordinated with the crew. Zetacode and Golden Prince can start moving civilians as soon as we give the go-ahead."

Leonard—the speedster with green lightning—nods confidently. "I'll handle transport. I can get entire groups to the plane before Cyberman even notices."

Beside him, Belteshazzar, the Golden Prince, adjusts his gleaming golden armor. His calm, regal tone fills the room. "I'll assist Zetacode. My energy shields will ensure no one gets hurt during the evacuation."

"Good," I say, turning to Morinjo. "Your telepathy will be critical in guiding civilians from their homes, cars, and workplaces to the safe zones we've mapped out."

Morinjo nods, his voice calm and steady. "I'll make sure they follow the right paths and avoid danger."

Joseph—the skilled archer—speaks up. "What about reinforcements? Cyberman's armies won't just let us walk in and take the civilians."

"They're already in motion," I reply. "Daniel will lead the ground assault, supported by Alexander in experimental armor and Liam piloting the Omni-Morph Vehicle. Jessica will oversee the evacuation alongside Sophia, Ava, and Christopher aboard the GALAXY plane. Samuel Vincent—" I look at the man with the power to manipulate time—"you'll support where needed, turning the tide in our favor when the moment comes."

Samuel nods, his voice measured. "Time manipulation isn't without risk, but I'll make sure we use it wisely."

Trivium, the god of Thunder, smirks. "So I take it my job is to make a storm of epic proportions at Cyberman's doorstep?"

"Exactly," I say, allowing a slight grin. "We need your chaos to disrupt their defenses."

John Brown leans forward, his wolf-like instincts sharp. "Morinjo and I will focus on Cyberman himself. He's the core of this. Take him down, and his forces crumble."

"You won't be alone," I assure him. "President Biden has deployed Captain Jack and Peregrine Falcon to join you. Together, you'll infiltrate the Chrysler Building while Daniel, Leonard, Belteshazzar, and Trivium hold the defensive perimeter outside to buy time."

The room falls silent as the weight of the plan settles over us. Jessica breaks the silence, her tone sharp. "What's the fallback if this goes sideways?"

"There is no fallback," I say firmly. "This is it. We win, or we lose everything."

I scan the room, meeting each of their gazes. Despite the gravity of the situation, I see nothing but resolve. They understand what's at stake.

"Let's make every second count," I conclude. "Cyberman expects chaos. What he doesn't expect is us."

As the team disperses to prepare for their roles, I feel the burden of what lies ahead. But I know I'm not alone. This team is our best chance. Together, we will fight, not just for New York, but for humanity itself.

ZACK

The air over the Banished Land is thick and heavy, laced with the stench of decay and metal. I stand at the edge of the cliff, my nitrogen thrusters humming faintly beneath my feet. Around me, the ground is cracked and lifeless, the remnants of a world that time forgot. Above, the sky is a swirling, restless black, dotted with faint stars that barely pierce through the haze.

Behind me, my army assembles in perfect silence. They stand motionless, their metal bodies glinting in the faint glow of the cracked ground. Wings folded, faces blank, they await my command. A faint hum rises from their cores, a low, synchronized pulse that reverberates in the air. It's the sound of power held in reserve, waiting to be unleashed.

I tighten my fists, the soft glow of my energy field illuminating the edge of the cliff. My robotic eye flickers, its display scanning the horizon and locking onto a point far, far ahead. Beyond the wasteland, past the broken skies and into the void of space, my target waits.

"New York," I whisper, my voice low and distorted through the helmet. The word tastes foreign on my tongue, like something I've only read about in forgotten data files. With a flick of my eye, I magnify the image. Even from here—this far from Earth—it shines. Its lights pulse like a living organism, sprawling and defiant.

The sight stirs something in me, something I quickly bury. There's no time for sentiment. That city, with all its light and life, doesn't know I'm coming. I raise my hand, signaling the army to move. Wings snap open, sharp and precise, and the hum of energy rises as they take to the air. One by one, they ascend, cutting through the thick atmosphere of the Banished Land like blades. I activate the nitrogen boost, letting it lift me into the air.

The ascent is slow at first, deliberate. The Banished Land shrinks below us, its jagged edges fading into a gray blur. The sky grows darker, the stars brighter, until the world below feels like a distant memory.

My army surrounds me now, a swarm of metal and shadow. The faint glow of their cores forms a constellation in the void, a beacon of control and purpose. I glance ahead again, my robotic eye sharpening the view. New York is still there, a tiny, glowing dot in the vastness of space, and my resolve hardens.

This is just the beginning.

To be continued....