CH.36
The chamber was dimly lit as Kaelin leaned against the console, her arms crossed, studying Celeste with a mixture of curiosity and determination. Celeste paced the room, her mind racing. The revelations Kaelin had shared about Ethan, the anchor, and Orion Systems were still fresh, but there was no time to dwell on the overwhelming weight of it all. They needed allies. They needed a team.
"If we're going to take on Orion Systems," Kaelin said, her voice cutting through the silence, "we can't do this alone. It's not just about stabilizing Ethan's fragments—it's about fighting back against Dominion. And for that, we need people who know how to operate under pressure."
Celeste stopped pacing, turning to face her. "So, who do we need?" she asked, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.
Kaelin pulled up a holographic projection, displaying a list of names and profiles. "I've already reached out to a few people I trust. Each of them brings something unique to the table. But I need to know you're committed, Celeste. This won't be easy."
Celeste nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I'm in."
---
Kaelin tapped on her device, and one by one, the profiles of their future team members appeared in the air.
1. **Alexis "Lex" Carrington**
- **Skillset**: Cybersecurity and Systems Defense Specialist
- **Background**: A former systems security lead for a multinational tech firm, Lex is a genius when it comes to building firewalls and countering advanced digital threats. After whistleblowing on her company's unethical practices, she became a freelance "digital mercenary," taking on high-risk jobs to dismantle corrupt networks. Her expertise will be vital for protecting Ethan's fragments from Orion Systems' interference.
- **Personality**: Sarcastic, resourceful, and fiercely independent, Lex approaches problems with razor-sharp wit and a no-nonsense attitude.
2. **Dr. Aron Matsuda**
- **Skillset**: Neurological AI Integration and Ethical Researcher
- **Background**: A respected neuroscientist specializing in the intersection of artificial intelligence and human cognition, Aron was once an ally of Orion Systems before leaving due to ethical disagreements. His research on neural interfaces gives him unparalleled insight into the technology used to link human consciousness with machine frameworks. Aron's knowledge could be the key to stabilizing Ethan's reintegration process.
- **Personality**: Thoughtful, introspective, and deeply principled, Aron serves as the moral compass of the team, constantly questioning the cost of their actions.
3. **Mina Delgado**
- **Skillset**: Drone Engineering and Field Logistics Expert
- **Background**: A brilliant inventor and field engineer, Mina is known for her ability to design and deploy advanced drones equipped with reconnaissance, hacking, and combat capabilities. Her self-built drone, "Scout," is a versatile tool that has saved her team from numerous tight situations. Mina's skills will provide the team with a tactical advantage when infiltrating Orion Systems' facilities.
- **Personality**: Optimistic and resourceful, Mina has a knack for finding creative solutions under pressure. Her energy and humor bring balance to the team's intensity.
4. **Rafael "Rafe" Sinclair**
- **Skillset**: Strategic Planner and Infiltration Expert
- **Background**: A former intelligence operative turned rogue strategist, Rafe has an impressive record of executing high-stakes infiltrations and dismantling heavily guarded systems. Disillusioned by the misuse of technology in modern warfare, he now works to expose corrupt organizations and defend AI entities. His tactical expertise will help the team outmaneuver Orion Systems.
- **Personality**: Calm, calculating, and charismatic, Rafe's leadership skills and quick thinking make him an invaluable asset in the field.
---
Celeste studied the profiles, her expression unreadable. "They all sound... capable," she said carefully. "But how do we know they'll fight for Ethan? For what we're trying to do?"
Kaelin smiled faintly, her gaze steady. "They've all fought systems like Orion in the past. They've all seen what happens when power goes unchecked. And they all believe in the same thing Ethan does: that technology should serve humanity, not control it."
Celeste glanced at the projection one last time before nodding. "Then let's bring them in. We don't have time to waste."