Terrchel and Leghorn walked into Cybro's Pizza Den in The Undergrid , ready to order a feast. As they took their seats Leghorn broke the silence.
Leghorn: "What is the situation between you and Meriella? The tension seems to be palpable."
The waiter came over and placed menus on the table. It was quite different to Cybro's Pizza Den in The New Arcadia City Menu.
Cybro's Pizza Den Menu
Undergrid Favorites
1. Gridlock Special: Spicy sausage, mushrooms, and onions on a crispy crust (ARC$12.99)
2. Circuit Breaker: Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese on a garlic-infused crust (ARC$14.99)
3. Byte-Sized: Mini pizza with choice of toppings, perfect for a quick Undergrid bite (ARC$6.99)
Meat Lover's Menu
4. Cybro's Carnivore: Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham on a thick, cheesy crust (ARC$19.99)
5. The Enforcer: Meatballs, pepperoni, and sausage on a spicy sauce-based crust (ARC$18.99)
Veggie Delights
6. The Undergrid: Roasted vegetables, goat cheese, and pesto on a whole-wheat crust (ARC$15.99)
7. The Circuit: Mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions on a garlic-infused crust (ARC$13.99)
Sides & Desserts
8. Grid Fries: Crispy fries cooked to perfection (ARC$4.99)
9. Cybro's Wings: Spicy chicken wings with choice of sauce (ARC$8.99)
10. Undergrid Brownie: Rich, fudgy brownie with a hint of coffee (ARC$5.99)
Drinks
11. Cybro's Cola: Fresh-brewed cola made with Undergrid ingredients (ARC$2.99)
12. Grid Energy: Energy drink infused with Undergrid herbs (ARC$3.99)
13. Water: Fresh from the Undergrid's hidden aquifers (ARC$1.99)
Daily Deals
- Monday: Buy one pizza, get one free (of equal or lesser value)
- Tuesday: 10% off all orders for Undergrid residents
- Wednesday: Free upgrade to a large pizza with purchase of a medium
Note:Prices may vary based on Undergrid market fluctuations. Cybro's Pizza Den accepts all major Arcadia Dollar cryptocurrencies and credits.
Terrchel let out a sigh and raised his eyebrows, putting his head in his hands. At the same time, Leghorn reached over to grab the menu.
Terrchel: "It's complicated and we didn't come here to talk about Meriella and I"
Leghorn: "It appears that there is indeed a topic for discussion. Conversely, I am convinced that we actually arrived here with that intention...."
Terrchel: [agitation] "Excuse me?"
Leghorn: "You were digging into my past, and guess what? It's a Meriella story"
Terrchel's expression became grave as he concentrated intently on Leghorn, his mind contemplating the worst possible outcomes.
Terrchel: "Please do elaborate"
The waiter returned to inquire about their orders. "We are uncertain about what to order; please bring us one of each." The waiter appeared shocked but performed a slight bow and departed to fulfill the request.
Leghorn: "Years ago when I was sent to Arcadia, it was to retrieve a fallen star known as the Celestial Energy Orb. Upon coming here, I was certain I'd carry out my duty and return to The Light Realm. However, when I came across Arnold, he was in urgent need of assistance to rescue Meriella from a profound coma induced by her own father for standing up for justice. I felt sorry for her situation knowing she would never awaken. It was written, but instead, I saw the ordeal as an opportunity to bargain with Arnold. So I told him, "I'll make you a deal: I'll let you merge the celestial orb energy with Meriella's body using the robotic body suit and the orb as the center power source, but in return, you must remove my past memories."
"I did something selfish and horrible, and I used Meriella as an excuse to get what I desired. That's how I wiped my past memories. I knew that this was my only opportunity to have such raw power in my grasp and instead of going about it the right way I took matters into my own hands making decisions that put everyone and everything at risk. If I just retrieved the source this would have ended before it started".
Terrchel: "So you're telling me that your MISTAKE was saving the person I'm in love with life?"
There was a notable silence at the table as the waiter served several plates of assorted foods and pizzas. Leghorn and Terrchel exchanged glances across a pile of stacked plates.
Leghorn: "Did you just say you love Meriella"
Terrchel: "Did you just say you'd rather her be dead or in a coma"
Leghorn: "I just think if I did the right thing then we wouldn't be in this situation. As we speak her brother Lawrence Abstainace is so close to achieving what Their father wanted; complete control over humans free will with a switch of a button. You have spent too much time in The Undergrid you need to see what's happening in the City headquarters space. Within one week there has been a rapid shift in the name of progression and soon that advancements will spread throughout The New Arcadia City and impact The Undergrid".
Terrchel: "I see, but I honestly don't think you made a mistake wanting your memories wiped. Personally I know how it feels. Although now that you mention it, I think my adapting abilities removed most my memories of past lives. My mind has been focused on the present. However, this isn't about me and you saving Meriella wasn't a bad thing. Plus I wouldn't be here if you did what you were supposedly meant to do".
Leghorn: "Yes, but everything would be easier for everyone else".
Terrchel: "I highly doubt it. Humanity destroys itself over and over. They would have found another way to self- destruct and your sacrifice would have been in vain. You'd be blaming yourself for being able to help save Meriella but not doing it. I don't know much about The Light that spoke to me but I believe He is God. If He has the power to reincarnate me then surely if you messed up years ago He wouldn't have allowed you back into The Light Realm without consequences? Maybe He wanted you to do what you did, but it had to come from your free will. Like you always say everything happens for a reason ".
Leghorn: "Terre, you are an unusual individual. Initially, you were upset with me, and now you are attempting to encourage me to be kinder to myself regarding the decisions I have made. How do I look at myself knowing I initially made the decision with my own benefits in mind. I wasn't exactly being a hero and Meriella doesn't know that. She thinks I saved her. I just haven't had the heart to tell her otherwise".
Terrchel: "If there's one thing I learnt it's life is short. Don't beat yourself up about it. It's been years, it's time to let go all that matters is what you do now".
They both perceived a change in the tone of the conversation from serious to casual and commenced eating while engaging in conversation.
Leghorn: "So Meriella?"
Terrchel: "Haha, come on, don't go there!"
Leghorn: "Love is a profound matter, Terrchel; such statements should not be made lightly".
Terrchel: "Well I'd hope it's serious because I don't like wasting my time and efforts".
Leghorn: "Why are you being so cold towards her then?"
Terrchel: "We shared a magical kiss; however, her overly friendly behavior with Emerson has led me to fear that they might be involved, causing me to question whether I misinterpreted her initial feelings for me".
Leghorn: "Well, it sounds like you are overthinking and making assumptions. You should speak to her instead".
Terrchel: "I guess I should just stick to the mission for now, like you mentioned and focusing on myself as well".
Leghorn cast a sidelong glance at Terrchel while remaining silent, reaching for a slice of pizza with an extra cheese pull.
Terrchel: "So obviously I need to get stronger. What do I still need to unlock?"
Leghorn: "Ability to dodge attacks with near-perfect accuracy. Ability to see in multiple spectrums (e.g., infrared, ultraviolet). Ability to predict and prepare for long-term threats. Increased resistance to physical damage. Ability to regenerate lost limbs or damaged organs. Ability to survive in vacuum or extreme pressure environments. You basically unlocked everything, the rest can be obtained through rapid training".
Terrchel: "Okay so when do we start".
Leghorn: "We start tomorrow. I want you to go into the New Arcadia City for the rest of the day and scope out what's really going on. Meriella is our best Scout so I'd advise you take her with you".
Terrchel: "I'd rather not".
Leghorn: "Okaaay, well find out as much as you can. As long as you back here by tomorrow sundown".
Terrchel: "Sure. Let me walk you back to the hideout before I leave".
They called the waiter over, and he said the total was ARC$132.87, but since it's Tuesday, Undergrid residents get 10% off, making it ARC$119.58.
Leghorn paid for the meal, and right when they were about to leave, the restaurant owner came running after them.
Restaurant owner: "Hey kid! How'd you pull that off. Last time I saw you, you were eating out the garbage bin now you've helped me make my monthly salary in one day! You must know some important or dangerous people".
Terrchel : "Let's call it dangerously important and call it a day, bye see ya"
Terrchel waved walking away and the restaurant owner laughed waving back, filled with gratitude and joy.
As Terrchel and Leghorn approached the hideout, they overheard Emerson briefing a female scout. She had striking features, porcelain skin, raven-black hair, and piercing emerald eyes that seemed to gleam with an inner light.
Her name was Meraki, and her lithe, athletic build spoke to her skill and agility. Terrchel, ever the opportunist, inserted himself into the conversation, inviting himself along on Meraki's mission into New Arcadia City. Thinking to himself that's where he would be heading soon anyways, not having any hidden agendas.
Emerson agreed it would be a great idea and introduced the two of them, roping Terrchel in on the mission they needed to execute.
Terrchel joked, "Don't worry, Em; I'll have her home before sundown tomorrow". Emerson laughed and said, "Usually, these missions only take a few hours, but be safe and don't have too much fun" He winked and walked off.
Meraki's gaze met Terrchel's, and her eyes sparkled with instant attraction. Meanwhile, Meriella watched from the shadows, her eyes narrowing as she felt a pang of jealousy. Why was Terrchel leaving with this...this...girl, and not her?
As Terrchel and Meraki soared through the skies, their jetpacks leaving trails of condensed water vapor in their wake, the atmosphere was electric.
The wind whipped through their hair, and the sun cast a golden glow over the landscape. Meraki couldn't help but steal glances at Terrchel, her heart racing with excitement. "You're quite the thrill-seeker, aren't you?" she called out over the din of the jetpacks.
Terrchel grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Just trying to keep up with you, Meraki!" he replied, his voice carrying on the wind. Meraki's laughter filled his ears, and it was contagious causing him to laugh as well. As they flew, the city sprawled out before them like a canvas of steel and stone, the towering skyscrapers glinting like shards of glass in the sunlight.
Terrchel couldn't help but wonder when was the last time her shared such joyful laughter with someone. It felt warm and genuine. It came naturally.
As Meraki and Terrchel landed on the rooftop of the New Arcadia City Headquarters, the wind whipping their hair into a frenzy, they exchanged a look of exhilaration and focus.
Their mission was to infiltrate the forbidden Arcadian library, hidden deep within the Presidential quarters, and retrieve a ancient scroll that Emerson needed.
With the precision of a well-oiled machine, they slipped into the ventilation shaft, avoiding the laser tripwires and security cameras.
As they crawled through the ductwork, Meraki's raven-black hair kept getting tangled in the vents, prompting Terrchel to tease her about being under skilled as a scout. Meraki playfully rolled her eyes. Meraki thought Terrchel was flirting but didn't realize that was just his personality.
Once inside the library, they moved with swift silence, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpet. The room was a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and forbidden knowledge, the air thick with the scent of old parchment and dust.
Meraki's eyes widened as she scanned the shelves, her fingers trailing over the spines of the books. "This is it, Terrchel. The Scroll of Prophesy is said to be hidden within a fake book on one of these shelves."
Terrchel found a book signed by Arnold Maximus and grabbed it.
Just as Meraki located the scroll, the sound of approaching patrols echoed outside the library. "Looks like we've got company", Terrchel whispered, his eyes locked on the door.
They sprang into action. Meraki took down the first patrol with a swift kick, while Terrchel disarmed the second with a clever flick of his wrist.
As they fought, their banter continued, with Meraki teasing Terrchel "You're so dashing, Terrchel, I'm surprised the bad guys don't just surrender from sheer admiration!"
Terrchel shot back with a grin, "Ah, but Meraki, that's exactly why I agreed to come along, I knew you'd need my skills" Meraki chuckled, "Well, someone's over confident! How about a dual when we get back to tje hideout then we'll see what you got". Terrchel agreed to duel Meraki one on one when they got back.
Their playful jabs were interspersed with the sound of grunts and the soft thud of bodies hitting the floor. They worked in perfect sync, taking down the patrols without killing anyone.
As they made their escape, their retrievals clutched tightly in Meraki's hand, Terrchel turned to her with a grin. "You know, we kinda bad ass kn combat together".
Meraki's laughter echoed through the corridors as they made their way back to the rooftop, all her mind could think about was that he thought they were bad ass together. "For a thrill-seeker, you're quite the bookworm." She pointed to the book he stole. He lifted the book in the air stating technically it's his.
Their lighthearted banter belied the gravity of their mission. The Scroll held the secrets of Arcadia's survival, and its retrieval was crucial to the cities future.
As they stood on the rooftop, the wind whipping their hair into a frenzy, Terrchel turned to Meraki with a mischievous smile. "You know, I accompanied you on your mission, now it's time for me to complete mine. I need to scout out the New Arcadia City."
Meraki's eyes sparkled with curiosity as they descended into the bustling streets of the city. As they walked, Meraki's gaze landed on a giant advertisement plastered on the side of a skyscraper. Her eyes widened in surprise as she took in the familiar face staring back at her - Terrchel's cerise eyes and green hair gleaming under the bright lights. "Wait a minute, is that...you?" she asked, her voice laced with amusement.
Terrchel chuckled, his face flushing with embarrassment. "Ah, yeah. I won a cosplay competition a while back. I guess they're still using my picture." Meraki teased him good-naturedly, "Well, well, well. Looks like someone's a celebrity!".
As they walked, their conversation turned to their favorite animes. Meraki confessed her love for "Galactic Blasters," while Terrchel swore by "Chrono Wars." A lighthearted disagreement ensued, with Meraki insisting that "Galactic Blasters" was the superior show, and Terrchel countering that "Chrono Wars" was the true masterpiece.
Their playful banter continued until Terrchel mentioned his experience at Mama Zara's Interdimensional Eats. "I went there a while back, and they took a picture of me for the Arcadian Media. Everyone complimented me on my 'cosplay,' saying my cerise eyes and green hair were the perfect touches."
Meraki responsed "And, of course, they had no idea that's just your natural look." Terrchel chuckled, his face flushing with amusement. "Yeah, it was pretty funny and, as it happens, I still have a free food pass there. We should stop by before we continue on our mission. My treat!"
As they took to the skies once more, the wind rushing past them, they shared a look of triumph and purpose. They had succeeded in their current mission, and were on to the next.
●・○・●・○・●