Ascendants

Robert still couldn't believe what he had just witnessed. The scene before him was like something out of a horror movie.

The once menacing figure now lay headless at his feet, a crimson pool of blood slowly expanding from the gaping wound.

He felt a mix of emotions that he couldn't quite put his finger on. Relief that the danger was finally over, but also a deep sense of horror at the brutality of the act.

Kline, who had just wiped the blood off his sword and sheathed it, turned to Robert, who was still in shock staring at the headless body.

Robert had so many questions swirling around in his head, but the most pressing one was how the man had managed to get up after being shot in the head several times. It defied all logic.

Robert asked the question in his mind to Kline,

"How is it possible for that man to get up after being shot in the head several times? It doesn't make any sense."

Kline looked at Robert with a serious expression.

"He was an Ascendant, Robert. What you just witnessed it's the next step of human evolution."

Robert looked at Kline in disbelief.

"Ascendant? Human evolution? What are you talking about?"

Kline sighed and explained,

"The history of the Ascendants is shrouded in mystery, with some claiming that they have existed for thousands of years, while others believe that they are a relatively new phenomenon."

"Nevertheless, it is clear that their abilities have allowed them to influence human history in various ways, from aiding powerful leaders to quietly manipulating events from behind the scenes."

"Despite their extraordinary powers, the Ascendants are not invincible. They face their own unique challenges, including the risk of persecution from more powerful Ascendants who fear the growth of their abilities."

"As a result, they often operate in secret, hiding their true identities from the world at large."

"Over time, the Ascendants have formed their own communities and networks, creating their own culture and traditions. They have their own rules and codes of conduct, which govern how they use their abilities and interact with one another."

"Despite their differences, many Ascendants share a common goal: to discover the secrets of the world. Some believe that they have a responsibility to use their abilities to protect and serve humanity, while others believe that they should take a more proactive role in shaping the course of human history, and other only care for personal power"

"Overall, the story of the Ascendants is one of mystery, intrigue, and the limitless potential of human evolution."

Robert was still having a hard time believing what Kline was saying.

"So, are you saying that because you were able to defeat an Ascendant with ease, you are also one of them?"

Kline smiled.

"You are perceptive, Robert. Ascendants keep a low profile, and they only reveal themselves when necessary. It's not easy to become an Ascendant, Robert. The development of their abilities often comes at a great cost. The more powerful you wish to become, the greater the price... believe me I know"

Robert listened intently to Kline's words, trying to absorb as much as he could.

"So, why was he here? And what do we do now?" he asked, looking around at the aftermath of the battle.

Kline replied, a note of gravitas in his voice,

"The Ascendants are highly valued assets for missions involving rare and powerful artifacts. It's a way to ensure success and minimize casualties. That's why I was sent on this particular expedition."

Kline continued,

"As for what we do now, we secure the artifact and report back to our superiors. They will assess the situation and determine the next course of action."

Robert nodded pensively, his mind racing as he attempted to make sense of the situation.

"What about any potential threats? The masked man's group? Do we need to worry about them coming back?"

Kline replied,

"Its possible. We must be vigilant. There could be others who will try to interfere with our mission. Every artifact hunter has enemies, and they will stop at nothing to get what they want."

Robert understood the gravity of the situation.

"What can we do to protect ourselves?"

Kline replied, his voice measured and deliberate,

"We'll need to remain alert and keep our guard up. We'll also need to be ready to use force if necessary. It's better to be safe than sorry."

Robert nodded in agreement. He knew that they were in a dangerous situation, but he felt reassured that Kline had everything under control.

Kline put a reassuring hand on Robert's shoulder.

"You've proven yourself today, Robert. You're more than ready for whatever comes next."

Robert looked up at Kline and felt a surge of gratitude. He knew that Kline was right. He had faced his fears and emerged victorious.

Kline yelled out, "Secure artifact #0098!"

John, who was nearby, immediately responded.

"Understood, Kline. I will make my way there promptly," John replied without hesitation, his tone conveying his readiness for the task ahead.

He quickly made his way to the artifact and carefully grabbed it from Kline, making sure not to touch it with his bare hands. He could feel the weight of the artifact in his hands, and the importance of the task at hand.

Kline looked relieved as John carefully placed it in a secure container of their own.

"Good work, John. That artifact is highly valuable and we can't afford to let it fall into the wrong hands."

John nodded in agreement. "I understand, Kline. I'll make sure it gets to the saferoom safely."

With a commanding voice, Kline shouted, "Let's move out, now!"

The group quickly sprang into action, moving with purpose and urgency as they gathered the injured and formed a tight formation.

They gathered the injured and formed a tight formation, making sure they covered all angles as they cautiously moved towards the exit.

Robert couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline rush through him as he followed closely behind Kline, his senses on high alert.

With weapons drawn and eyes scanning for any potential threats, the group made their way towards the exit of the hall, ready to face any obstacles in their way.

As they approached the exit, they could hear the sound of footsteps coming from outside the hall. Kline signaled for everyone to stop and crouch down, preparing for the worst.

The footsteps grew louder and closer until finally, a figure appeared at the entrance of the hall. It was a member of their team who had been posted as a lookout.

"Kline, we have a problem," the lookout said in a hushed tone. "There are armed men outside. They're heavily armed and it looks like they're not here to negotiate."

Kline's eyes narrowed as he considered their options. "We'll have to fight our way out. Everyone, be ready."

The group quickly got into position, ready to defend themselves against any attackers. Kline signaled for the door to be opened and they rushed out, weapons at the ready.

The armed men were waiting for them, and a fierce battle ensued. Gunfire rang out as the two groups clashed, each determined to come out on top.

Robert's heart was pounding in his chest as he fought off his attackers. He had never experienced anything like this before, and he couldn't believe how quickly things had escalated.

Kline fought with precision and skill, expertly taking down his opponents one by one. Robert watched in awe as Kline moved with grace and agility, his sword flashing through the air.

Despite their best efforts, the group was outnumbered and outgunned. They were taking heavy casualties, and it looked like they might not make it out alive.

Just when things seemed like they couldn't get any worse, a sudden explosion rocked the building. The walls shook and debris rained down on them as they scrambled for cover.

As the chaos subsided and the dust settled, Robert looked up to see that the masked men were retreating.

Kline had managed to turn the tide of the battle with a well-timed explosive device.

Breathless and battered, the group slowly made their way out of the building, feeling a sense of relief and accomplishment wash over them.

As the building was located in an isolated area, there was no risk of causing disturbance or civilian casualties while making noise.

Kline assessed the group of survivors and furrowed his brow at the sight of too many casualties for what was supposed to be just a skirmish with the Blackhand. He couldn't help but wonder if the Blackhand had become stronger than they were before. Were they turning their mortal soldiers into ascendants en masse?

Kline's mind raced as he contemplated the gravity of the situation. He knew he had to act fast and report the events to his superiors.

There was something far more sinister going on, and he had to find out what it was before it was too late.