Backlash

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Channel 7 News:

"Good evening, I'm Jane Rivera. Tonight's top story: the sudden appearance of individuals with extraordinary abilities, dubbed 'Neogenes,' is causing a stir worldwide. Reports indicate these individuals possess powers far beyond human capabilities, leading to both awe and fear among the public. Government officials are scrambling to address the implications of these Neogenes, while public opinion remains sharply divided."

Public Opinion on forums:

@RealHeroFan: "These Neogenes are amazing! Finally, real-life superheroes to look up to! Can't wait to see what they do next."

@SkepticalSam: "Sure, they seem cool now, but what happens when they decide to take over? We need regulations ASAP!"

@ConcernedMom: "As a parent, I'm terrified. What if one of these Neogenes goes rogue? How do we protect our kids?"

@TechGuru69: "Instead of fearing them, we should be figuring out how to collaborate with them. Imagine the technological advancements we could achieve!"

@All-Father Mokami: "Oh my sweet summer child, you think this is new? You have no idea."

@The Handsomest Shinobi Koushin: "Meh, I can beat them easy."

@Secret Wizard Potter: "That old man seems oddly familiar. I wonder what his name is. Is he a butler?"

@Horyu: "… Commentor two above, stop ashaming us."

Channel 7 News continued to display various public opinions regarding the emergence of Neogenes. People in the streets were interviewed, showing a spectrum of reactions.

"I think it's amazing," a young man wearing a superhero T-shirt said excitedly. "These Neogenes could be the heroes we've always needed!"

An older woman, visibly anxious, shook her head. "We need to be careful. Who knows what these people can really do? They could be dangerous."

A well-dressed businessman, clearly skeptical, added, "This could disrupt our entire societal structure. Regulations and safety measures need to be put in place immediately."

Political leaders and experts were also quick to weigh in. Senator Robert Hayes appeared on the screen, his expression stern.

"We cannot afford to wait," he declared. "We need comprehensive policies to manage and monitor these individuals to ensure the safety and security of our citizens."

In contrast, Dr. Emily Cheng, a renowned geneticist, had a more optimistic view. "This is an unprecedented opportunity for humanity. We should focus on understanding and collaborating with Neogenes to harness their potential for the greater good."

Meanwhile, in Nero's headquarters, the news played on a large screen, providing background noise as the group discussed their next moves.

Nero glanced at the screen, then turned to his friends, his expression serious yet calm. "We need to stay ahead of this. Public sentiment can shift quickly, and we must be prepared for any outcome."

Anthony, leaning against the wall with a thoughtful look, spoke up. "It's going to get chaotic out there. Fear and excitement can both lead to unpredictable actions."

Sofia added as she checked her mobile phone, "I've been tracking online forums. Opinions are all over the place, but there's a growing demand for regulation. We might need to prepare for increased scrutiny."

Nero smiled, leaning back slightly. "Toph and Sokka are pushing for the X-Men to become more visible. With Warren's resources, we'll ensure the media captures every heroic act. Slowly, people will start trusting them more."

Nigel, sitting at the back, raised an eyebrow. "What about SHIELD?"

Nero's expression darkened. "Erwin mentioned they're already making moves to undermine Warren. But Warren's wealth ties him to key players within SHIELD. If there's one thing those in power hate, it's losing their money."

Anthony crossed his arms, pondering. "So, his financial influence will be our shield against their interference?"

"Exactly," Nero confirmed. "We'll leverage that to keep the spotlight on Warren and the X-Men. The public's perception is crucial."

Sofia, still glued to her phone, interjected. "I've seen posts speculating about Warren's motivations. We need to control the narrative, ensuring people see him as a genuine hero."

Nero nodded. "Agreed. We must be meticulous. Any slip could shift public sentiment against us."

Anthony added, "And we can't rely solely on Warren.."

"Of course," Nero replied. "We'll mobilize our other allies. Sakura's been showcasing her chakra healing, and people are beginning to see her as the new Saintess of Hell's Kitchen."

At this time, Sorella spoke, [I have calculated the new achievements, Big Brother.]

Nero turned his attention to the holographic screen as Sorella began to list the achievements:

[Achievement Unlocked: Pulling Warren Worthington III to your side.

Achievement Unlocked: Creating a new hero known as Savior Angel.

Achievement Unlocked: Shaping the perceptions of mutants by rebranding them as Neogenes.

Achievement Unlocked: Stopping Magneto's plot.

Achievement Unlocked: Bringing the X-Men into the light, so they are more active.]

[Calculating rewards based on achievements...]

Nero watched as the screen flickered, displaying the rewards for his recent accomplishments:

1x Random Character Card (E++ Tier)

1x Random Character Card (E++ Tier)

1x Random Ability (C-- Tier)

1x Random Item (C Tier)

1x Random Item (D Tier)

1x Random Item (E++ Tier)

1x Random Item (E Tier)

Nero frowned, his fingers drumming on the table. "This is less than I expected, Sorella."

Sorella's holographic form flickered slightly before responding. [Apologies, Big Brother. Many of the events would have proceeded similarly without your intervention. While Angel's role has changed, he would have joined the X-Men eventually. The majority of the rewards are due to the shift in perception of Neogenes. The rest remains largely unchanged from the original plot.]

Nero sighed and nodded. "Alright, draw them."

The holographic screen displayed a progress bar as Sorella confirmed. [Drawing, Big Brother.]

The names appeared one by one: L from Death Note, Yagami Light from Death Note, Invisibility from Danny Phantom, Elucidator from Sword Art Online, Healing Potion (Advanced), Tactical Flashlight, High-End Chef's Knife.

Nero's eyes narrowed at the two names. "Interesting."

Maria leaned over his shoulder, glancing at the screen. "Who are they?" she asked, curiosity evident in her voice.

"They're from a universe filled with intrigue and psychological battles," Nero explained. "L and Yagami Light are intellectual powerhouses, masters of deduction and strategy."

Gears started to turn in Nero's mind. It would be interesting to see L and Light work together. Due to the Family System, they would be loyal to Nero, but still have a bit of rivalry they were carrying from their original worlds. "How should I place them?" Nero thought out loud. His gaze fell into the picture on one of the screens, the old bald man reminded him of his plans. "That should be interesting." He smiled then took two cards, and summoned them.

Nero held the cards tightly, feeling the energy pulse through them. With a swift motion, he activated them, and two figures materialized before him.

L, with his messy black hair and casual demeanor, scanned the room with sharp eyes, assessing his surroundings. Light Yagami stood tall and confident, his piercing gaze locking onto Nero. Both immediately understood their allegiance, their past rivalry now a simmering undercurrent.

"Welcome to the team," Nero said, his tone even and authoritative. "Your skills are invaluable, and I expect nothing less than excellence."

L glanced at Light, a hint of their old rivalry flickering in his eyes. "It's an intriguing situation, to say the least."

Light smirked, his confidence undiminished. "Indeed."

Anthony, observing the new additions, couldn't help but chuckle. "This is going to be one hell of a team."

Nero held up two ability cards, the first one being Invisibility which he had just drawn, and the second, Pyrokinesis, which he had been saving for the right moment. He handed the Invisibility card to L and the Pyrokinesis card to Light. As they absorbed the new abilities, a subtle glow enveloped them briefly before fading.

"These should suit your talents perfectly," Nero said with a satisfied smile. "L, your stealth just got an upgrade. Light, now you can add fire to your arsenal."

L examined his hands, an analytical glint in his eyes. "Interesting. This will indeed enhance my investigative work."

Light's eyes gleamed with a hint of ambition as he tested his newfound ability, a small flame dancing on his palm before extinguishing. "This power will be most useful."

Nero's gaze was firm as he addressed them both. "Head to Nigel. He'll brief you on your missions and provide further instructions. Your contributions will be crucial in the coming days."

L nodded, his mind already calculating the potential uses of his new ability. Light smirked, confident and ready for the challenges ahead. They both left the room, their presence still lingering in the air.

Anthony, who had been watching the exchange quietly, spoke up. "Those two will stir things up for sure."

Nero chuckled, leaning back. "That's the plan. We need all the advantages we can get. Things are about to get very interesting."

Maria glanced up from her phone. "Warren wants to meet you," she said, her voice cutting through the room's tension.

Nero nodded, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Alright," he replied. "I'll head out now."

A low whistle escaped his lips, and moments later, Nyx rolled into view. "Little Bro, need a ride?" Nyx's voice was playful.

Nero chuckled, "Sure, let's go."

Maria waved them off, her smile lingering as she watched Nero get into the car. Nyx's engine roared to life, and they sped off towards Warren's estate.

Upon arriving at Warren's sprawling estate, Nyx smoothly parked, and Nero stepped out, straightening his suit. He was greeted by one of Warren's aides, who led him through the grand halls to a private meeting room.

Warren stood by the window, his wings folded behind him. He turned as Nero entered, offering a genuine smile. "Nero, thank you for coming."

Nero nodded, taking a seat. "What's on your mind, Warren?"

Warren's expression turned serious. "I've been monitoring the media and the public's reaction. While the response has been mostly positive, there are growing concerns about regulation and control."

Nero leaned back, steepling his fingers. "It's to be expected. Fear and uncertainty drive people to seek control over what they don't understand."

Warren nodded. "I agree, but we need to manage this carefully. Any misstep could lead to a backlash."

Nero's gaze was steady. "We've already started positioning you and the X-Men as protectors and heroes. Your actions in public need to reinforce that image. No unnecessary risks, and always prioritize the safety of civilians."

Warren's eyes flickered with determination. "I understand."

Nero then asked, "How about SHIELD? Your friends causing any problems?"

Warren sighed, a trace of frustration in his eyes. "Some are trying to use my new identity to push me out and embezzle my fortune. Others favor dissecting Neogenes to learn our secrets. Rich and powerful people are deciding just how bloody the following days will be."

Nero's expression darkened. "We need to play our cards carefully. They think they can control us with fear and greed. We'll show them they're wrong."

Warren nodded, his wings twitching slightly in agitation. "I'm prepared to fight for our rights, but we need a solid plan."

Nero leaned back, steepling his fingers. "We need to bolster public support. If people see us as heroes, SHIELD's plans will backfire."

"Agreed," Warren said. "We have to keep showing them we're here to protect, not to dominate."

Nero smiled, his eyes glinting with a mixture of excitement and resolve. "It's time to expose the cracks in their facade. Show the world that the Army, Politicians, and Government aren't as trustworthy as they appear."

Warren, feeling a shiver run down his spine at the sight of Nero's expression, asked cautiously, "What exactly are you planning?"

Nero chuckled softly, leaning back in his chair. "I just brought in two new members who excel at making a dramatic impact. We'll stage a highly publicized heroic event, something that will undermine those who want to control or harm Neogenes. Stay tuned for the details."

With that, Nero left Warren to ponder the implications of his words. As he returned to Nyx, who awaited him patiently in the driveway, he could feel the coming days were going to be really exciting.

Nyx's voice broke through his thoughts as he approached the car. "Ready for the ride back, Little Bro?" the car asked playfully.

Nero chuckled, "Let's go, Nyx. We have a lot to prepare."

As they sped back towards his headquarters, Nero's mind raced with strategies and contingencies, knowing that the next move had to be flawless.

Back at headquarters, the atmosphere was tense yet focused. Nero called a meeting with his core team, gathering them in the main conference room. He stood at the head of the table, looking at each of them in turn.

"Everyone, we have a critical mission ahead," he began, his tone serious. "Our goal is to shift public perception in our favor by orchestrating a high-profile event that showcases our strength and benevolence. L and Light Yagami will play pivotal roles in this operation."

Anthony nodded thoughtfully. "So we're staging a rescue or something similar?"

Nero tapped the table, gathering everyone's attention. "Government, politicians, elites, and especially the Army have been experimenting on humans for years. It's time to expose them and save the victims of these experiments. This way, we can shift public perception and reduce trust in the governing bodies, making them rely on Neogenes more."

He turned to L and Light. "Work with Sofia to hack and steal all the information you can find. Nigel, reconnect with your old contacts to locate the secret labs. Diego, get the media on our side and ensure maximum exposure. We need to make this public."

L leaned forward, "I can create diversions while Sofia extracts the data. They won't know what hit them."

Light smirked, "I've always been good at uncovering secrets. This will be no different."

Sofia, tapping away on her laptop, nodded. "I'm already on it. With L's help, we'll be unstoppable."

Nigel adjusted his tie, a glint of determination in his eyes. "I know just the people to call. They'll be thrilled to expose such atrocities."

Diego flashed a charming smile, "Consider the media handled. They'll be eager for a scoop this big."

Nero's eyes shone with conviction. "This is the first step in showing the world who the real villains are. Let's get to work."

The team dispersed, each member diving into their tasks with precision. L and Sofia sat side by side, screens flashing with encrypted data as they infiltrated secure networks. Light methodically sifted through the stolen information, piecing together the dark secrets hidden within government files. Nigel's calls were swift. Diego worked on the media, promising exclusive stories that would shake the very foundations of trust in the authorities. Reporters, sensing the opportunity of a lifetime, prepared to broadcast the revelations to the public.

Three months later...

In a dimly lit room, the team reconvened, their findings displayed on a large screen. Nero stood at the center, his gaze sweeping over the data.

Sofia pointed at the screen, "These labs are scattered across the country. The experiments are gruesome—genetic manipulation, cybernetic enhancements, all without consent."

L added, "We have the proof, but we'll need to move quickly. Once they realize we've breached their security, they'll try to cover their tracks."

Light's eyes gleamed with intensity, "We expose them simultaneously. A coordinated strike will ensure they can't hide."

Nigel's voice was steady, "I've arranged safe extraction points for the victims. We'll get them out before the authorities can react."

Nero smiled, "Did you leak the news to Magneto and the X-Men?"

Anthony nodded. "Toph and Sokka convinced Xavier, and they will hit these four bases. Magneto is already on the move to these three bases with his team. That leaves us with these six."

Nero hummed, looking at his team. For this operation, everyone was called back except a few key players. Frank Martin, Nami, Sakura, Erwin, Hercule, Ezio, Edward, Lara, Finn, L, and Light, with his team of Maria, Anthony, Sofia, Donald, Diego, and Nigel. All were masked, fully dressed in tactical gear sponsored by Warren, ready to unleash hell.

They were separated into eight teams: Sofia, L, and Light at the base, while Sakura and Donald formed the relief team to heal experimented people if necessary. The action-oriented teams were Nero and Maria, Hercule and Diego, Anthony and Edward, Nigel and Erwin, Frank and Ezio, Lara and Finn.

The mission was set in motion with surgical precision.

Nero and Maria approached their target with a blend of stealth and power. Utilizing the Sky Flame, Nero neutralized the security systems, while Maria's Mist Flame cast illusions that confused the guards. They moved fluidly, taking down any opposition with a combination of martial prowess and flame-based attacks. As they breached the main lab, Maria's illusions kept the scientists and guards disoriented, making it easy for Nero to secure the captives.

Hercule and Diego stormed their location with brash confidence. Hercule, with his immense physical strength, broke through barriers while Diego's Storm Ring led them to critical points. They encountered fierce resistance, but Hercule's martial arts and Diego's tactical acumen overcame it. They found a group of captives, and Diego swiftly freed them while Hercule fended off the guards with sheer power.

Anthony and Edward executed their plan with military precision. Anthony's Sun Flame enhanced his physical abilities, allowing him to bulldoze through the opposition, while Edward's alchemy provided versatile offensive and defensive maneuvers. Together, they cut a path through the facility, rescuing captives and ensuring no guard was left standing.

Nigel and Erwin combined their strategic minds to outmaneuver their foes. Nigel's Cloud Flame provided defensive barriers, while Erwin's tactical brilliance led them through the complex efficiently. Their methodical approach ensured minimal resistance as they liberated the captives and gathered crucial evidence of the atrocities committed within.

Frank and Ezio moved with the grace of seasoned assassins. Frank's combat skills and Ezio's stealth allowed them to slip past most defenses unnoticed. When confrontation was unavoidable, Ezio's hidden blades and Frank's martial prowess made quick work of any guards. They freed the captives and sabotaged the lab's equipment to prevent further use.

Lara and Finn brought a mix of survival skills and brute strength. Lara's agility and combat proficiency complemented Finn's resilience and swordsmanship. They encountered several traps, but Lara's keen eye and Finn's quick reflexes ensured they were overcome. The captives they found were swiftly evacuated, with Finn providing protection and Lara leading the way.

Back at the base, Sofia coordinated the teams, providing real-time intel and hacking into security systems to ensure smooth operations. L used his intellect to anticipate and counter the enemy's moves, while Light manipulated the information flow, ensuring the enemy was always one step behind.

Sakura and Donald worked tirelessly in the relief area, providing medical aid to the rescued captives. Sakura's chakra healing and Donald's medical expertise saved many lives, stabilizing the injured and ensuring they were fit for transport.

As the teams converged back at the extraction points, Nero's voice came through their comms, "Good work, everyone. Let's get the hell out of here."

When the media finally arrived, the scene was chaotic. Nero's team had already vanished without a trace, leaving only the aftermath of their daring raid. Warren, covered in soot and blood, descended from the sky, landing with a powerful thud near the gathering reporters. In his arms, he cradled a terrified eight-year-old Neogene child with a small tail.

"Corrupted monsters! How dare you!" he roared, his voice echoing with righteous fury. He turned to face the cameras, his eyes blazing with anger. "Is this your regulation? Is this your justice? Government, Army, Politicians, the rich and powerful. Is this your method of balance?"

The cameras zoomed in on Warren's impassioned face, capturing the raw emotion of the moment. The child in his arms whimpered, clinging tightly to him.

"We found children experimented on in hidden labs," Warren continued, his voice steady but filled with barely restrained rage. "This is the reality of your so-called control. Innocent lives twisted and tortured in the name of security."

Reporters shouted questions, but Warren ignored them, focusing on delivering his message. "These children are victims of a system that prioritizes power over humanity. We cannot stand by and let this continue. We must fight for their freedom and their future."

In the crowd, people began to murmur, the weight of Warren's words sinking in. Public sentiment, already divided, began to shift. The image of a hero standing against such atrocities resonated deeply with many.

Back at Nero's headquarters, the team watched the broadcast with satisfaction. Nero leaned back, a pleased smile on his face. "Warren's performance was perfect. Public support will start to swing in our favor."

Anthony nodded, crossing his arms. "People need a hero to believe in. Warren just gave them one."

Sofia chimed in, "The online reaction is overwhelmingly positive. Hashtags supporting Neogenes and condemning the government are trending."

Nigel added, "We must maintain this momentum. We need to keep exposing the truth and showing the public the real villains."

Nero's eyes gleamed, "Sofia, leak the documents. It's time to humble those who stand at the top."

Across the globe, the effects of Nero's plan unfolded rapidly. Headlines blared shocking revelations about the government's secret experiments on Neogenes. News outlets scrambled to cover the breaking story, with images and videos of tortured victims dominating screens everywhere.

In Washington D.C., Senator Robert Hayes faced a barrage of questions from furious journalists. "Senator, how do you respond to these accusations? Were you aware of these illegal experiments?" His face, usually composed, showed cracks of anxiety as he struggled to maintain control.

Parents in small towns and big cities alike held their children closer, fear and outrage mingling in their eyes. Online forums exploded with hashtags like #JusticeForNeogenes and #ExposeTheTruth, as people demanded accountability and change.

Protests erupted in major cities, with thousands marching to demand justice for the Neogenes. Placards reading "No More Secrets", "Neogene Lives Matter" and "Human Rights for All" waved in the air, while impassioned speeches from activists echoed through the streets.

In a hidden military base, high-ranking officials watched the chaos unfold on screens, their expressions grim. "How did this get out?" one demanded, slamming a fist on the table. "We need to control the narrative before it destroys us."

General Ross, standing before a room filled with high-ranking officials, clenched his fists as the newscaster's voice echoed in the background, detailing the widespread protests and media frenzy. He slammed his fist on the table, making the surface rattle. "I was so close!" he growled, his voice filled with barely contained fury.

The assembled officers exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the storm brewing in the general's demeanor. Colonel Adams, a seasoned veteran with a stern face, stepped forward, trying to maintain composure. "Sir, our teams are working around the clock to manage the situation. We need to strategize our next move carefully."

Ross glared at Adams, his eyes blazing with anger. "Carefully? We should have anticipated this! Those Neogenes have undermined everything we've worked for. We need to regain control, and we need to do it now."

In the corner, Dr. Marcus Holloway, a scientist involved in the Neogene research, cleared his throat nervously. "General, the data leak has exposed only a fraction of our operations. If we act swiftly, we can still salvage the situation and prevent further damage."

Ross turned his fiery gaze towards Holloway. "And how do you propose we do that, Doctor? The public is already in an uproar. Our credibility is hanging by a thread."

Holloway adjusted his glasses, trying to muster confidence. "We need to discredit the sources of these leaks. If we can create doubt about the validity of the information, we might be able to buy ourselves some time."

Colonel Adams nodded in agreement. "We could also ramp up our public relations efforts, highlighting the dangers these Neogenes pose. Shift the narrative to focus on the need for regulation and control."

Ross exhaled sharply, his mind racing with the potential fallout. "Fine. Start the smear campaign. Make sure every media outlet is flooded with our side of the story. And increase security at all research facilities. We can't afford another breach."

Adams saluted crisply. "Yes, sir. I'll see to it immediately."

As the room emptied, Ross stared at the flickering screen, his anger simmering. The Neogenes had thrown a wrench into his plans, but he was determined to reclaim control, no matter the cost.

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