[Triskelion]
Fury had watched the entire operation as it unfolded, using drones and helm-cams to keep himself orientated on everything.
He had also learned a lot. For one, he had been able to confirm that those 3199 monsters were indeed real, though individually, they weren't all that terrifying.
However, he did agree that the danger they represented was massive; he had seen how they almost managed to double their numbers in around one hour. That indeed wasn't normal, and given that the eggs were supposed to be incredibly difficult to break, they could be a huge danger.
If as much as one of those monsters remained free, they would be able to rebuild their numbers quickly and once more become a threat.
Though he did admit that the real threat was currently looking like Bulwark, after all, they had enough eggs in their possession to cause major damage all around the world.
After this mission, he had a much better idea about Bulwark's organization. The SHIELD agents had been given multiple secondary missions, one of which was to learn as much as possible about the people they would be working with.
They hadn't disappointed. Numerous reports had been delivered to him, but he had only been able to skim through a few of them, mostly from the people he trusted the most, trusting their ability to judge others.
So far, they were painting the same picture; the rank and file of the Bulwark at least fully believed in the mission. They all truly believed that they were doing what was needed, that they were on the right side of things.
Fury couldn't help but admire the Bulwark's ability to brainwash thousands of people. Something that would make it a lot more difficult to make any of them turn spies for him. Honestly, he was tempting to ask Talos for help.
The Bulwark were simply too dangerous, with at least then thousands of skilled and heavily armed combat personnel and, like far more, who were all fanatical about following their orders. Well, should the so-called Overseers be up to no good, they would have plenty of people willing to aid them.
Though that was far from the only thing, he had learned, one of his agents had pushed someone, asking why they were so sure that what they did was morally right; that person had, under the dual pressure of the situation and questioning, leaked some valuable information.
Apparently, there was something called the Ethics Committee within the Bulwark, an organ with as much power as the Overseers who had the responsibility to ensure that the Bulwark always did their best to minimize collateral damage.
This was a surprising revelation. Fury had not expected an organization as secretive and powerful as the Bulwark to have an internal body dedicated to ethical oversight. It indicated a level of self-regulation and concern for their actions that he hadn't anticipated. This Ethics Committee could be a potential ally or at least a point of leverage.
He leaned back in his chair, pondering his next move. The Bulwark was a formidable ally but also a potential threat. He needed to tread carefully, balancing cooperation with vigilance. The mission had shown him their strength, but it had also revealed their vulnerabilities. The fact that they operated with such secrecy meant that there were things they didn't want the world to know. Those secrets could be the key to understanding their true motives.
Fury knew he needed more information. He called in Maria Hill.
"Hill, I want a full debrief from all operatives involved in the mission. We need to compile everything they learned about the Bulwark. Focus on their structure, their personnel, and especially this Ethics Committee. I want to know who's on it and what their influence is."
Hill nodded, already making notes. "Understood, Director. I'll have the reports on your desk by tomorrow morning."
"Good. And Hill, start thinking about how we can get someone inside the Bulwark. We need eyes and ears within their ranks."
"That won't be easy. They're highly suspicious of outsiders."
"I know. But if we're going to work with them—or against them—we need to know what they're planning. Make it a priority."
Hill nodded and left the room, leaving Fury alone with his thoughts. The operation had been a success, but it had also raised many questions. The Bulwark was a complex organization, and understanding their true nature was going to be crucial for the future.
…
After a few days of going over the data they had gotten from the recent join operation with the Bulwark, Fury had gathered some of his most trusted people or those he thought would be able to help.
Clint, one of his best and most trusted, and someone who had been out there fighting side by side with the Bulwark.
Coulson, another of his most trusted agents and someone who had worked side by side with the Bulwark as they worked to prepare the battlefield, had been able to see how they operated and kept themselves secret.
Hill, his right hand who had been busy hounding the scientist to get results from the many tests they had done on the samples they had recovered and had spent many a late night going over all those results.
Hand, not one of his most trusted, but someone he knew had SHIELD's best interest at heart and someone with a keen mind and sharp eyes; while he wouldn't trust her with his back, he did trust her professionalism and skills.
These were the carefully hand picked few he would be meeting with and would trust to help him come to better understand the Bulwark and find out how they should move forward. For a while Fury didn't trust anyone but himself, he was still not foolish enough not to seek the counsel of others.
He walked into the conference room where the other four were already waiting, sitting down in his usual seat.
"All right, let's get started. Hill, report."
"Yes, Director. We've analyzed the data from the mission and compiled a comprehensive profile of the Bulwark's operations and capabilities. Here's a summary."
Hill handed out a stack of documents, which the others began to scan through.
"As you can see, they're well-organized and efficient. They have a clear hierarchy and chain of command, and they're well-equipped and trained. They also seem to have access to significant resources and funding. But perhaps the most interesting thing is their apparent dedication.
From what we've seen, most of their people seem genuinely committed to their mission. They're not just soldiers doing their job—they really believe in what they're doing. That makes them a formidable opponent."
"You're right," said Clint. "These guys are serious. They know what they're doing and they don't mess around. Even the military isn't half as committed as these guys."
"And we're sure about this?" Hand asked, frowning. "These guys have been running around, shooting monsters and blowing up buildings, without a single arrest. They're not exactly making friends. How can they have so much support?"
"That is a good question, any leads there, Coulson? Hill?" Fury asked.
Coulson looked thoughtful. "I can't say for certain, but I have a few theories. First, we know the Bulwark have a reputation as a kind of 'deep state'. They've been operating for a long time and have connections all over the world. I wouldn't be surprised if they've managed to build up a lot of support that way."
"Second, their recruitment seems very selective," said Hill. "Most of the people I spoke to were recruited directly by the Bulwark or referred by someone they know. They were all vetted and hand-picked.
Third, they're clearly well-funded. I can't be sure, but I think they might be backed by some kind of organization or benefactor. It would explain how they can afford all their equipment and training."
"The amount of money they would need to do even a few of the things we know them capable off isn't something just one rich benefactor can do, their budget likely isn't any smaller then ours, the question is, who is funding them and how have we never known about it until now." Hand stated.
"The Bulwark also have a number of high-tech assets. Their armor, weapons, and vehicles are all top-of-the-line. It's possible they have some kind of advanced technology or backing from a wealthy government." Hill added.
"Yet if they were getting that kind of support, it would be impossible for us not to know about it. Which brings us to the next question, how are they doing it?" Hand questioned.
"I'm not sure," said Hill. "But whatever the case, they seem to be extremely well-resourced and determined. We'll need to tread carefully with them. If they're truly dedicated to their mission, we can't afford to underestimate them."
Fury leaned forward, his hands steepled. "And what is their mission? Can we take their word for it?"
"Not entirely," Hill said. "But based on what we've seen, it seems like they're trying to protect humanity from some kind of threat. That's why they're so focused on combating monsters and investigating anomalies. Of course, there's no guarantee that their motives are completely altruistic. We need to keep a close eye on them and make sure they don't start overstepping their bounds."
"Well, I think we can all agree that the Bulwark are dangerous," said Coulson. "But we've been dealing with dangerous groups for a long time. What's important is how we're going to deal with them. Director, do you think we should continue cooperating with them? Or should we consider a more... aggressive approach?"
"It's a valid question," Fury agreed. "On the one hand, the Bulwark is a powerful and well-resourced organization. They could be a valuable ally, and with their help, we might be able to prevent a lot of unnecessary conflict and destruction.
But on the other hand, they're also an unknown quantity. They're keeping a lot of secrets, and they have a lot of power. If we're not careful, we could end up making a deal with the devil. So to speak."
There was a pause as everyone considered the dilemma.
"Well, I'm inclined to stay on their good side," Clint spoke up.
"They're tough, but they've shown they can get results. If we play our cards right, we could benefit a lot from this partnership."
"I agree," Coulson added. "But we need to keep our guard up. Maintain our own operations, keep tabs on them, and ensure we have contingencies in place."
Fury nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, here's what we're going to do. We maintain our alliance with the Bulwark, but we do so with caution. Hill, I want you to coordinate with our analysts and develop a comprehensive profile on their key personnel. Find out who their real decision-makers are."
"Understood, Director," Hill replied.
"Hand, I want you to dig into their funding. Follow the money trails, see if you can identify any unusual financial movements or connections to other organizations. If they have a secret backer, I want to know who it is."
"Will do," Hand responded.
"Clint, keep your ear to the ground. Use your contacts and resources to gather any intelligence you can on their operations. I want to know what they're planning before they act."
Clint nodded. "I'll get on it."
"Coulson, your job is to oversee all of this. Make sure our efforts are coordinated and that we're sharing information effectively. We can't afford any missteps."
"Got it, Director," Coulson said, already making notes.
Fury leaned back in his chair, eyes scanning the room. "We need to approach this strategically. The Bulwark might be a powerful ally, but they could also be our greatest threat. We'll work with them, but we'll also be ready for anything."
Everyone in the room nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
"Alright, That's a goal long-term plan, but before we can carry that out, we need to know the little details, Clint; you saw them in action; how is their training? How do they compare with us?" Fury asked as he moved the discussion along.
Clint took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding. "They're impressive, Director. Their training is top-notch, and they operate with a level of discipline and coordination that's rare to see outside of elite military units. Their combat tactics are advanced, and they make excellent use of their high-tech equipment."
"Overall, most of them are likely on par with most of our agents; only three of them really stood out above the rest; even Natasha and myself would struggle around those three."
Fury nodded, taking in the information. "Good to know. And their equipment? How does it stack up?"
"They've got cutting-edge gear," Clint continued. "Advanced weaponry, armor that can withstand a lot of punishment, and vehicles that are both fast and heavily armored. It's clear they're investing heavily in their tech, which makes them even more dangerous."
Hill interjected, "From the data we've gathered, it looks like they have access to technology that even we haven't seen before. Some of their equipment is beyond anything currently available on the market. This suggests they either have an incredibly advanced research and development team or they're getting their tech from an external source."
Fury leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Could it be extraterrestrial?" Coulson asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It's a possibility," Hill admitted. "We need to explore all potential sources."
"Alright," Fury said, "so we know they're well-trained, well-equipped, and fanatically dedicated to their mission. That makes them a formidable force. But we also know they're secretive and potentially have hidden agendas."
Hand leaned forward, her expression serious. "We need to be very careful with our approach. We should continue to cooperate with them for now, but we should also focus on building our own defenses. If they ever decide to turn against us, we need to be ready."
"Agreed," Fury said. "Which brings us to our next point. We need to get someone on the inside. Hill, any progress on that front?"
"We're working on it, Director," Hill replied. "It's not going to be easy, but we're exploring a few avenues. One possibility is to target their recruitment process. If we can insert an agent during their vetting phase, we might be able to get someone in deep."
"Good. Keep me updated on that," Fury said. "Now, let's talk about our next steps. We need to stay one step ahead of them. We need to monitor their activities, gather as much intel as possible, and be prepared for any surprises."
"Alright, that's also going to clearly be a long-term plan; for now, Coulson, what can you say from what you witnessed?"
A/N
If you want to read up to 10 chapters ahead or even get the chance to pick what SCPs get summoned, or just support me, visit my p.a.t.r.e.o.n.c.o.m / SCPsystem
"Alright, that's also going to clearly be a long-term plan; for now, Coulson, what can you say from what you witnessed?"
"Well, I mostly just saw their work handling the public, working with other agencies, local government, and law enforcement, and they are good. They know exactly what they are doing. We all know that they aren't afraid to pretend they belong to other more well-known and legitimate agencies, including our own SHIELD."
To this, everyone could only smile and shake their heads; they knew that and couldn't really do anything about it, it was ironic since they normally used the same tactic, and yet now they were the target for it.
Coulson continued, "One thing that stood out was their efficiency. They have a well-oiled machine, and their operatives are trained to handle almost any situation. They can switch from public relations to combat mode seamlessly, which makes them very versatile."
Fury nodded thoughtfully. "What about their interactions with other agencies? Did they encounter any issues?"
"Surprisingly, no," Coulson replied. "They have a way of smoothing things over, making people believe they're the good guys. They're very persuasive and know how to leverage their authority. It's almost like they have an unofficial network of contacts in various organizations, which they can activate as needed."
Hill leaned forward. "So, they have influence and a network that spans multiple levels of authority. That makes them even more formidable. We need to identify these connections and see if we can map out their network."
"I already noted down everyone they were in contact with; I'm sure a few might be their contracts, though it will take some time to determine which." Coulson said, already a step ahead.
Good work, Coulson," Fury said, appreciating the thoroughness. "We'll need to cross-reference those contacts with our own databases and see if any patterns emerge. It might give us a clearer picture of their operational footprint."
Hand looked thoughtful. "If they have such an extensive network, there might be weak links. People who aren't as loyal or who might be swayed. We should consider leveraging those connections."
"Agreed." Fury said before addressing Coulson again. "Anything else to add from your observations?"
Coulson nodded, flipping through his notes. "Yes, there was one more thing. During the operation, I noticed a few key individuals who seemed to be in charge. They weren't wearing any distinct insignia, but their authority was clear. These might be the higher-ups or perhaps the decision-makers within the Bulwark. If we can identify and monitor them, it might give us a better understanding of their strategies and priorities."
"Names?" Fury asked, leaning forward.
"Not yet. But I've got descriptions and behavioral profiles. I'll pass them to our analysts to see if we can match them to any known figures," Coulson replied.
"Good. We need to find out who these people are and what their endgame is," Fury said. He turned to Hill. "Hill, prioritize the analysis of Coulson's data. We need those identities as soon as possible."
Hill nodded, making a note. "Understood, Director."
Fury then addressed the group. "We have a lot of pieces to this puzzle, but we need to start putting them together. The Bulwark's network, their funding, their leadership—we need to understand it all. And we need to do it fast."
Hand interjected, "Director, if I may suggest, we should also look into their supply chains. Advanced tech and high-end equipment mean they have suppliers. If we can trace those, it might lead us to their backers or reveal more about their operations."
"Good point, Hand. Add that to your investigation," Fury agreed.
"Will do," Hand responded, jotting down notes.
"Alright," Fury concluded, "Hill, your turn, what have we learned from the labs yet? About these monsters."
Hill opened her tablet and projected some data onto the screen. "From the samples we collected, we've learned quite a bit. Firstly, the DNA is clearly not natural, these things were created in a lab somewhere, there is Human, chicken, and chimpanzee DNA, as well as multiple others that hadn't yet been identified."
Hill continued, "Their cellular structure is incredibly resilient, which explains their rapid reproduction and the difficulty in destroying their eggs. These creatures have been engineered for survival and adaptability, making them a significant threat."
Fury leaned forward, his gaze intense. "What about weaknesses? Did we find any vulnerabilities?"
Hill nodded, "Yes, Director. They are clearly not all that hard to take down; while more resilient than a human, they still die to bullets, so they aren't hard to kill; it's mostly from numbers. They gain strength, though their eggs are far more difficult to get rid of."
"The eggs," Hill continued, "have a remarkably tough outer shell. Standard weapons are ineffective against them, according to Bulwark, heat causes them to hatch, which means even explosives might not destroy them."
"We have recovered two eggs, and so far, we have exposed one to various levels of stress, with no signs of damage, though we are still being careful; we don't want to risk them hatching or breaking just yet." Hill continued her report.
"Interesting," Fury muttered, his mind already racing with potential strategies. "We need to figure out a way to neutralize those eggs without triggering them to hatch. Any progress on that front?"
"The current theory is extreme colds might be enough, but we haven't tested it; after all, we only have two; if we lose them both, we won't be able to continue our study of them." Hill answered.
He then turned to the group at large. "Alright, people. We've got a lot of work to do. We need to keep a close eye on the Bulwark, figure out their next moves, and make sure we're ready for anything. Stay vigilant, and report any new developments immediately."
The team nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. They knew the stakes were high, and they were ready to do whatever it took to protect humanity from the looming threats.
As the meeting adjourned, Fury remained seated, lost in thought. The Bulwark was a complex and powerful organization, but SHIELD had faced formidable foes before. With the right strategy and enough determination, they could unravel the secrets of the Bulwark and ensure the safety of the world.
---------------------
Far away from the chaos of the last big mission, another SHIELD agent who hadn't taken part in it all, but was well aware of what had happened once more
Melinda May once again drove away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and went out towards the convent once again, this time determined to meet with this mysterious child.
*Knock knock*
Once again, she knocked, and this time, she was let in quickly. Clearly, she was known now and didn't distrust her as much as when she first arrived. Something that would likely go a long way towards being able to meet the child on good terms.
She was led to the same small room and told to wait again. She waited patiently until the old nun came to greet with, with a fresh pot of tea. "Welcome back child, I made us some tea, it always is easier to open the heart with a bit of tea I find it." She said with a gentle smile as she served them both a cup.
"Thank you." May said gratefully as she took a sip, though she quickly stopped due to it being too warm still.
"No need to be so impatient, good things comes to those who wait for it." The nun said with the same smile as she gently held her own cup and blew on it.
May nodded, taking a breath to slow herself down. The nun's calm demeanor was infectious, and she found herself relaxing a bit more. "You're right, Sister. Patience is a virtue."
The old nun's eyes twinkled. "So, what brings you back here so soon, child? I sense you have more questions."
May leaned forward slightly. "Sister, I wish to meet the child, I know there is one here, an enhanced one, and I need to see her to get closure."
The nun regarded May with a thoughtful expression, her eyes searching for something in May's face. After a moment, she sighed. "I guess I couldn't get away with lying to someone like you. But please understand, she is a good child, nothing like the one from your story."
"I have come to believe the same, which is why I must meet her. I need to see a good child, to see that an enhanced doesn't have to be a negative."
The old nun clearly weighed her words. "You must understand, she is very fragile; she can't stand the corruption of the modern world; she suffers from it, pain, rashes, coughing, all from just a tiny bit of pollution."
May's eyes softened with understanding. "I assure you, Sister, I only want to help. I've seen too many enhanced individuals used for the wrong reasons. I want to make sure she's safe and protected from those who might exploit her."
The nun sighed again, her resolve wavering. "Very well. But please, be gentle. She's very sensitive."
May nodded, appreciating the nun's concern. "I promise."
The old woman left, leaving May alone for a long while. She finished the rest of the tea as she waited for almost an hour before the old nun came back.
"I had to inform the others and her; we have discussed things, and while we don't wish for impose on her, we know that you, isn't someone we can turn away, and you seem sincere, so will have agreed to allow it" The old nun explained slowly.
"But first, we must try and prepare you as much as possible, which means you will need to bathe, be blessed, and wear some clothes we will prepare for you; as I said, the child is very sensitive."
May nodded, understanding the precautions. "I understand, Sister. I'll do whatever is necessary to make this meeting as safe as possible for her."
The nun led May to a small, private room where she could wash and change. The process was thorough; the bathwater was infused with herbs and the clothes provided were made of natural, breathable fabrics, designed to minimize any potential irritants.
After she was ready, the nun performed a brief blessing, murmuring prayers as she sprinkled holy water over May. The ceremony was calming, grounding her in the seriousness of the moment.
Once finished, the nun led May down a series of quiet, dimly lit hallways. The air was cooler here, almost purified, and May could feel the difference.
Slowly she noticed that the walls seemed almost covered in moss, grass grew from between the stones, and the further they went the more nature seemed to claim the building.
"She is blessed, and cursed, the child." The old nun started to speak.
"She is, like a small piece of Eden, someone free of the first sin, hurt by it, but in turn, she lifts the sin." She continued to explain.
May listened intently, her curiosity and concern growing with each step. The air was cool and refreshing, filled with the scent of nature reclaiming its place.
"She sounds extraordinary," May said softly. "What exactly do you mean by 'lifting the sin'?"
The nun paused, choosing her words carefully. "When she is near, the air becomes purer, the land heals. It's as if her presence itself is a cleansing force, undoing some of the damage humanity has wrought upon the world."
May felt a profound sense of awe and responsibility. "And this is why she's so sensitive to the modern world?"
"Yes," the nun replied. "The pollution, the noise, the chaos—it all causes her great pain. She is meant for a purer, more innocent world, and the modern one is almost unbearable for her."
They finally reached a small, secluded garden within the convent. It was a sanctuary, untouched by the outside world, where flowers bloomed brightly and birds sang sweetly. In the center stood a young teen girl, her ethereal presence undeniable.
She was dressed in a simple white robe. May could clearly see why she was extraordinary: on her head, a pair of antlers grew, her bare feet were hooved, and a shot deer-like tail poked through a small hole in her robe.
"Good child, this is the woman who wished to see you, Agent May." The old nun said in a gentle voice, like a mother speaking to their beloved child.
The girl turned, her large eyes filled with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. She was delicate, almost otherworldly, with an aura of innocence and purity that was palpable. "So you must be from the Foundation; I'm surprised it took you so long."
A/N
If you want to read up to 10 chapters ahead or even get the chance to pick what SCPs get summoned, or just support me, visit my p.a.t.r.e.o.n.c.o.m / SCPsystem
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