Bab 49: Operation Madripoor!
Maxim emerged from the oppressive shadows of the dimension into the quiet serenity of the Norwegian environment. Barely a second after he returned to the normal world, the communications tab went off.
Maxim put in the earpiece he created using NanoTechnology, and A.N.G.E.L's voice immediately came through,"Back so soon? I trust your meeting with Hela was... productive?"
Maxim smirked, brushing off a lingering tendril of shadow from his shoulder as if it were dust, "Let's just say, I've planted a seed. Whether it grows or burns is up to her."
"Intriguing," A.N.G.E.L. replied, her tone neutral, "Operation Madripoor has progressed during your absence. Shall I brief you?"
Maxim nodded, his form shifting into a shadow as he shifted throughout Europe once more, swiftly moving towards Madripoor.
"Madripoor's power dynamics remain volatile," A.N.G.E.L. began., "The governing coalition of crime lords and political leaders still exerts control over both Hightown and Lowtown. However, cracks in their unity have begun to show. Several factions are at odds, creating opportunities we can exploit."
Maxim just nodded as he listened, "What about Wanda? And the Widows?"
"They've made significant progress," A.N.G.E.L. responded, bringing up a holographic image for Maxim to see. The holographic feed showed footage of Wanda and the Widows infiltrating a heavily fortified compound, their movements precise and efficient.
"Wanda has been instrumental in dismantling smaller operations tied to the Yashida Clan and the Dragon's Fang Syndicate," A.N.G.E.L. explained, "Her abilities allow us to neutralize threats with minimal casualties, maintaining a low profile."
A.N.G.E.L said, and the feed shifted, this time showing footage of Yelena leading many Widows to hijack a vehicle, taking down all the persons involved in transporting the cargo and taking it for themselves.
"Looks like they've been quite active." Maxim said with a smile, his form flashing like a blur throughout the shadows, and soon, his shadowy form coalesced in the outskirts of Madripoor.
Maxim could see the skyline of the city that pierced the night with the silhouettes of skyscrapers, while beneath these buildings were the sprawling labyrinthine streets of Lowtown.
As Maxim stepped into the environment, he could smell the air that was thick with humidity, and the faint smell of oil and seawater. Lowtown was naturally the underbelly of the state, with narrow alleyways and walls plastered with graffiti.
Vendors hawked from questionable rusted carts, their voices occasionally blocked by the hum of machinery and engines, or the roar of nightclubs and sex. Sprawling through this undercity in the shadows, Maxim could see the people who lived here.
People he could use, their faces marked by desperation & defiance, whether they be criminals, refugees or mercenaries, Maxim could tell these would be the people who he could use in the future.
In the distance, Maxim could spot the HighTown, with the facade of wealth and privilege, polished streets and towering offices, which houses the rich and wealthiest of criminals, gangs and businessmen.
Maxim ignored this however, shifting through the streets before arriving at the Safe-House he had created in Madripoor, using a bit of Magic and Technology. The safe-house was unassuming, a weathered building tucked between a mechanic shop and a cafe.
The windows were tinted, and the only indication of life was the faint hum of music from within. Maxim approached the door, his presence seemingly unnoticed by the locals bustling around the street, and tapped a sequence into the hidden keypad.
The door slid open silently, revealing a spacious interior outfitted with modern technology and supplies. Inside, the atmosphere was a stark contrast to the chaos outside.
Wanda was seated at a table, her fingers flicking through holographic screens projected from a portable console. Pietro leaned against the far wall, twirling a knife idly between his fingers.
Maxim could spot Yelena sparring with several Widows nearby, in each of their hands, was a sleek, semi-automatic sidearm, with a metallic body that exuded elegance. They were all wearing the same clothing, a snug, matte black tracksuit that conforms perfectly to the wearer's body.
"Look who decided to join us," Wanda said without looking up, a faint smile tugging at her lips as she sensed Maxim arriving even before he opened the door due to her powers.
Maxim just chuckled and stepped fully into the room, his presence immediately commanding attention. All of the Widow's stopped their movements and looked to him as he spoke, "You've been busy."
Yelena smirked from her spot, "Of course, we're not amateurs." she said, twirling the gun in her hand.
"And how have the equipment I provided been? Have they been working well?" Maxim asked, staring at the weapon and the track-suit they were wearing.
In truth, that weapon was the HeadHunter, Chamber's weapon from Valorant he was creating. The weapon was designed for precision and lethality, with a precision-engineered barrel for high-velocity projectiles.
The gun was equipped with advanced targeting systems, including an
A.N.G.E.L -assisted scope that provides real-time trajectory predictions and identifies weak points in armor.
They fired high-density, nanite & magic infused rounds, and the gun allowed the attachments like silencers, extended-mags or energy amplifiers.
As for the Track-Suit? It was an adaptive NanoTech suit Maxim had designed for the Black Widows, in order to help them be at maximum efficiency in battle. Its sleek design hid a web of inter-connected Nanobots weaved into the fabric.
It was almost like a second skin for the Black Widows, with features such as Dynamic Reinforcement, Regeneration, Adaptive Camouflage, Environmental Adaptability, and systems integrated with A.N.G.E.L.
"They've all been perfect, I've never seen anything like it. Not even the International Governments have tech this advanced." Yelena said and looked towards the other Black Widows, who all nodded in agreement.
"So," Maxim began, his tone calm but firm, "Tell me about your missions so far. I want to know everything, successes, setbacks, and the state of Madripoor's factions."
Wanda was the first to respond, her fingers pausing over the holographic screens. She gestured, and the images of their recent operations materialized in mid-air for everyone to see, "We've made substantial progress," she said, her voice steady,"The Yashida Clan and the Dragon Fang Syndicate are the primary factions we've targeted. Their smuggling routes and smaller operations are in chaos, thanks to our efforts."
"Good." Maxim's voice carried a tone of satisfaction as he walked to the center of the room. The holographic display shifted to show A.N.G.E.L.'s prepared plan for Operation Madripoor, "Now, let's talk about what comes next."
He gestured to A.N.G.E.L.'s projection, and her serene, holographic form appeared beside him. She began without preamble. "Strategy One: Divide and Conquer," she reiterated, her voice measured and precise. "Phase One has been underway, as you know. The infighting among the factions is escalating, but we need to amplify the chaos. Misinformation campaigns and targeted attacks on key assets are your next priority."
Maxim pointed to Wanda, "You'll focus on spreading fear and paranoia. Use your powers to create illusions, make them think their enemies are closer than they are. Let them destroy each other."
Wanda nodded, her expression determined, "Consider it done."
"Yelena," Maxim continued, his gaze shifting to her and the Widows. "You'll coordinate strikes against their financial assets. Bank heists, sabotaging deals, whatever it takes to cripple their funding."
"Easy," Yelena replied, her confidence evident as she gripped the HeadHunter tighter, a smirk on her lips.
"Pietro," Maxim said, turning to the speedster. "Disrupt their supply lines further. Target their shipments of weapons and drugs. Leave nothing intact."
"Already on it," Pietro said, a cocky grin tugging at his lips.
A.N.G.E.L. resumed. "Phase Two: Establishing Influence. As the factions weaken, it's crucial to position yourself as a stabilizing force. Lowtown is key. Begin offering security and resources to the population there. Your track record of aiding the oppressed will work in your favor."
Maxim nodded thoughtfully. "A.N.G.E.L has already begun to create our Business and register it in Madripoor. When anyone asks you why you're doing it, just say our organization's name. We'll set up safe zones in Lowtown. Use them as hubs to recruit locals and build a network. The people here need to see us as their saviors, not just another faction vying for power."
"And what of Hightown?" Wanda asked.
"Not yet," Maxim replied, "Hightown will fall in due time, but first, we must win the hearts of Lowtown. When the elite lose their foundation of labor and resources, their ivory towers will crumble."
"Phase Three: Eliminate Key Opposition," A.N.G.E.L. continued. Images of Madripoor's most powerful figures appeared, heads of the Yashida Clan, the Dragon Tong, and other syndicates, "These individuals must be dealt with, either through assassination or subterfuge. Their removal will pave the way for your ascension."
Maxim's voice was like steel, "No loose ends. Their time is up, and it's time for us to take over."
"And finally," A.N.G.E.L. said, "Phase Four: Ascension. Once the factions are neutralized, and the people of Lowtown see you as their protector, you'll consolidate power. Replace the current leadership with your supporters, ensuring loyalty and stability."
The room fell silent as everyone absorbed the enormity of the plan. Maxim looked around, his gaze sharp and commanding. "You've all done exceptional work so far, but this is just the beginning. Madripoor will be ours, and once it is, we'll reshape it into a bastion of power and order."
The Widows, Pietro, and Wanda exchanged determined looks. Yelena stepped forward, her voice carrying the confidence of someone ready for battle. "We're with you, Maxim. Whatever it takes."
"Good," Maxim said, his tone final. "Now let's get to work."
***************
Give Suggestions on the Organization Name!
Bab 50: Hela & Frigga!
Hela sat in her sealed dimension, the oppressive shadows and ghastly green lights faded into silence as she sunk into deep contemplation. In her hand, the Astral Transmission Orb rested, her mind replaying Maxim's words.
Although Hela didn't want to fully believe everything he said, as she couldn't fully assess his motives at the current moment, the points he brought up were very valid.
She knew better than anyone that Odin would destroy Asgard before he let her conquer it forcefully, and if she truly wanted to be Asgard's Queen, she needed to be more diplomatic.
Yet she didn't exactly know how. From the moment she was born, as Maxim had said, she was made for war, made for death. Trained to be the most efficient in combat, the greatest killer of all time, the Goddess of Death, there was no need for her to be diplomatic.
As all these thoughts swirled in her head, she finally made her decision. Her grip on the orb tightened as it pulsed faintly and activated. The shadows consumed her physical form and weaved it into an ethereal Astral Shadow.
Her silhouette shimmered with a unique elegance of Astral energy, and in the blink of an eye, she vanished from the desolate wasteland of a dimension, transported across realms.
Soon, Hela's form materialized above Asgard, the Golden City sprawling beneath her. For a moment, she was motionless, her Astral Shadow hovering amist the sea of clouds as the brilliance of Asgard reminder her of the past.
Compared to her days, Asgard had changed quite a-lot. It was much much bigger, much more extravagant. Massive luxurious buildings could be spotted everywhere, and she could spot Asgardians walking around everywhere, happily enjoying their lives.
However, she could still spot every important monuments that made Asgard what it is today. The Asgard museum, holding intricate carvings and paintings displaying past battles.
In the distance, she could see the massive Bifrost Bridge that spread across the cosmic void, a massive array of light and power stretching beyond most perspectives.
Above it all loomed the Royal Palace, its spires reaching toward the stars with regal defiance. The palace radiated authority, its golden façade reflecting the light of a thousand suns. Greenery bloomed in structured gardens below.
Hela descended gracefully, her shadowy form blending seamlessly into the vibrant splendor of Asgard. Her destination was clear. Asgard's private royal library, a sanctuary of knowledge where Frigga often stayed.
The library was hidden within the palace, accessible only through a winding corridor that seemed to shimmer with enchantments. As Hela passed, she noticed that most couldn't notice her, the shadows protecting her from their sights.
Soon, she slipped through the library doors and entered. The library was massive and magnificent, shelves carved from golden oak rising to the ceiling, which held countless tomes of immense knowledge and power bound in leather & silk.
The air was rich with the scent of ancient flowers, and sunlight continuously poured through the enchanted skylights created by Frigga to replicate a suitable environment for reading and gaining knowledge.
This was a library Frigga often retreated to, spending a vast amount of time here and she also taught Hela when she was young about the cosmos, magic and anything in between.
In the center of the room stood a single, elegantly carved table, adorned with scrolls and a delicate tea set. Hela stepped throughout the room silently as she advanced, her gaze sweeping the place as memories of the past flashed through her mind.
Memories of her spending time with Frigga, although short, they were memorable, reading, magic training, they were the only portions of warmth she experienced in her childhood. Just as she opened her mouth to call out, a voice rang through the stillness,
"I've missed you, my daughter."
The voice was soft, tinged with both sorrow and love. Hela froze. The words pierced through her like a blade, her hardened composure cracking slightly. Her emerald eyes scanned the room until they found Frigga, seated gracefully near the table.
The Queen of Asgard looked as regal as ever, her presence commanding and gentle all at once. Her golden hair framed her face, and her eyes shone with an otherworldly wisdom.
"How did you," Hela began, her voice cold and blunt, but without the hostility she had towards others, "know I was here?"
Frigga simply had a gentle smile on her face, not noting Hela's indifference. She knew her daughter better than anyone in existence, and she knew the cold tone in Hela's voice wasn't born out of hate whatsoever.
Frigga rose from her chair, her movements fluid and unhurried as she stepped closer to Hela, "Do not underestimate my magic, child," she replied, her tone soft yet firm, "A mother knows when her child returns, no matter the form they take."
Hela's expression faltered as she faced Frigga. To this day, this was probably the only Asgardian she still truly cared about after all this time, the woman who raised her and provided her the fragile warmth in her childhood.
"And why would you miss me after everything? After the bloodshed and the exile?" Hela asked, her voice still cold as she stared at her mother.
Frigga approached her, stopping just short of touching the shimmering Astral Shadow. Her gaze was steady, her eyes reflecting an endless depth of understanding, "Because you are still my daughter," she said simply, "No matter what has happened, no matter what you have become, you are the pride of my existence."
Hela's Astral form flickered as the words washed over her. For the first time in centuries, she found herself at a loss for words. The oppressive silence of her banishment was gone, replaced by the warmth of her mother's presence, a warmth she had not felt since she was cast away.
Frigga gestured toward the table, where the tea seemed to steam invitingly despite Hela's incorporeal form, "Come, sit with me. Let us talk."
Hela just nodded, and slowly moved towards the table, her Astral form shimmering faintly as she took a seat opposite Frigga.
Frigga regarded Hela's shimmering form with an air of calm admiration, a soft smile gracing her lips,"This magic is impressive," she remarked, her tone light but sincere "Magic involving the Astral Plane has never been my specialty, it is quiet interesting to see a form crafted from Astral energy, so finely crafted it nearly fools even these old eyes. The creativity in magic these days never ceases to amaze me. To slip past Asgard's defenses so elegantly... remarkable."
Hela just smiled, "It serves its purpose," she replied, her voice more measured than usual.
Frigga chuckled softly. "You've always been so nonchalant," she teased, though her eyes held a profound warmth. She leaned forward slightly, folding her hands on the table, "But tell me, my daughter, what brings you here after so long?"
Hela's emerald gaze flickered, her expression turning somber. For a moment, she hesitated, the weight of her thoughts pressing down on her. Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter than before as she explained her meeting with Maxim.
Frigga listened intently, her gaze unwavering. When Hela finished, she nodded thoughtfully, "This man named Maxim. He sounds quite wise," she said.
"And I must admit, his words echo thoughts I have long held. You, my daughter, could be a Queen unlike any other, a ruler of strength and grace, beloved by her people. But for that to happen, the bloodlust and war-mongering must end."
Hela's composure cracked, and her eyes darkened with simmering rage, "It was Odin who made me this way," she hissed, her voice edged with venom, "He shaped me into a weapon, a monster. Every drop of blood spilled was for his conquests. And when I had outlived my usefulness, he cast me aside like I was nothing."
Frigga's expression softened, though her gaze did not falter. "I do not deny Odin's hand in your making," she said gently, "He molded you to serve his vision of Asgard, a vision built on power and expansion. But that vision no longer binds you. You are free, Hela. Free to decide who you will be, unshackled by Odin's desires."
Hela's Astral form shimmered faintly, her rage giving way to a flicker of uncertainty. "And what if I no longer know who I am without it? Without the death, the conquest, the war?"
Frigga leaned forward, her voice tender but firm, "Then discover it," she urged. "You have the strength to redefine yourself, to become something greater than Odin ever allowed you to be." Frigga's powerful voice boomed in Hela's ears.
"You could be the Queen of Asgard, not out of fear, but out of love and respect, a Queen worthy of the people and the throne. Even if that means shedding the mantle of the Goddess of Death, or redefining what that mantle means to yourself."
Hela's gaze dropped to the table, her thoughts a storm of conflicting emotions. Frigga reached out, her hand hovering close to Hela's spectral one, "No matter the path you choose, Hela," she said softly, her voice filled with unwavering love, "you will always be my daughter. I will always love you."
For a moment, silence filled the library. Then, slowly, Hela raised her eyes to meet Frigga's. In her emerald eyes, a spark of something new began to flicker.
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