The officer played the recording, and it clearly showed Aric entering the Tongass Forest area. Roberto glared at Aric with thinly veiled displeasure.
"See? That's me," Aric said, his tone deliberately provocative.
He was thrilled and amazed by C99's ability to hack into the Republic of Sienna's database to register him and alter the security camera footage seamlessly.
Clara also watched the recording intently before looking at Aric, who winked at her as if to say, 'I'll explain later.'
"What do you think, Roberto? He's not a monster in disguise, is he?" Clara teased, a playful glint in her eyes.
Roberto remained composed and replied, "True. Fortunately, he is 'human.' So, Young Mistress need not worry, and neither do I."
Clara felt triumphant with her retort to Roberto. "Can we leave now?"
Roberto nodded. "Go ahead."
They successfully passed the retina scan without any issues, thanks to C99's meticulous handling.
As they walked away, Roberto watched them with growing frustration. He then turned to one of the Zenith officers and barked, "Get all the information on that kid and bring it to me immediately."
The officer nodded and quickly left to complete his task, knowing Roberto's reputation for intolerance toward delays.
Meanwhile, Aric and Clara walked towards the pedestrian path leading to their destination. "You need to teach me, C99. I'm getting smarter now," Aric said with a grin.
C99 snorted. "You've got a long way to go, Aric. For now, leave the heavy lifting to me."
Aric fell silent for a moment before calling out, "C99."
"What?"
"Thank you!"
C99 didn't reply, remaining silent. Deep down, she felt a quiet joy in helping and seeing that Aric's journey was beginning to show signs he might become the true heir of the Galactic Conqueror.
Aric glanced at Clara, who appeared a bit nervous and shy beside him. "So, where are we going, Clara?" he asked, trying to ease the awkwardness.
"Just follow me. I'll show you New York," Clara replied with a smile.
New York retained its iconic name even in 2274, but it had changed significantly. The city blended advanced technology with remnants of its historic past.
Skyscrapers intertwined with old buildings, and streets buzzed with a mix of futuristic and traditional sights. For Aric, it was a fascinating glimpse into a time long before his own.
"Oh! This movie!" Aric exclaimed, spotting a large poster for a film that remained a classic even after centuries.
"You know about this movie?" Clara asked, her curiosity piqued.
Aric nodded eagerly. "I love this movie."
"But it hasn't come out yet."
Realizing his slip, Aric quickly glanced at the poster's bottom. "Coming to theaters this summer."
"Oh. I must have mistaken it for something else," Aric said, laughing awkwardly.
Clara giggled at Aric's reaction, thinking nothing of it. To her, Aric's confusion was understandable given everything he had been through.
"Let's go. We need to hurry," Clara urged with a smile, jogging ahead. Worried about being left behind, Aric quickened his pace. "Wait!"
Clara led Aric to the bustling city square. Today happened to be the 50th anniversary of the Republic of Sienna's founding. The square was vibrant with decorations.
Lanterns hung from every lamppost, and flowers adorned storefronts. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and chatter.
"Let's get some pastries!" Clara suggested, pointing to a stall selling warm, flaky treats filled with fruit and cream.
Aric agreed, and they joined the line. The vendor, an elderly woman with a friendly smile, handed them their pastries wrapped in parchment paper.
"It's on me. You don't have our currency right?" said Clara in a whisper. Aric nodded slowly.
They found a nearby bench to sit and enjoy their pastries.
As they ate, Aric couldn't help but marvel at the blend of the old and new in New York. The city's energy was infectious, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of peace and excitement for the future.
Clara, sensing his contentment, smiled and continued to share stories about the city's rich history and vibrant culture. The two of them, despite their initial awkwardness, began to form a bond amidst the backdrop of a city that was as timeless as their shared adventure.
"These are delicious!" Clara exclaimed, savoring each bite of the pastry.
Aric nodded, his mouth full. "Yeah, they are."
As they ate, the opening parade began. A procession of musicians, dancers, and elaborately dressed performers made their way through the streets, captivating the spectators. The rhythm of drums and the melody of flutes filled the air, creating a festive symphony.
Clara's eyes widened with delight. "Look at the dancers, Aric! They're amazing!"
Aric smiled, enjoying Clara's excitement. "They sure are."
The parade continued, featuring various floats that represented different aspects of Sienna's culture and history. One float depicted the city's founding, with actors dressed as early settlers.
Another showcased Sienna's achievements in technology and innovation, with intricate mechanical displays.
As the parade moved on, Aric and Clara decided to explore the rest of the festival. They visited several stalls, trying different foods and playing games.
Clara won a small stuffed animal at a ring toss game, which she proudly showed off to Aric.
"Look, Aric! Isn't it cute?" she said, hugging the plush toy.
Aric laughed. "Yeah, it's adorable. You've got quite the aim."
They continued to wander the festival, enjoying the various attractions. Aric felt a sense of contentment as he watched Clara's joyful expressions. It was a rare moment of respite from their usual routine, and he cherished it.
As the day wore on, they reached the city square where a large stage had been set up for the main event of the festival. The President of Sienna, a beautiful woman with a commanding presence, took the stage to address the crowd.
"Welcome, citizens of Sienna, to the 50th anniversary of our republic!" the President announced, her voice amplified by a sound system. "Today, we celebrate our prosperity and unity. Let us enjoy this day of joy and festivity together!"
The crowd erupted in applause and cheers. The President continued to speak, but Aric's attention was suddenly drawn to a commotion at the edge of the square. He saw a group of people pushing through the crowd, their movements hurried and frantic.
"What's going on over there?" Aric wondered aloud.
Clara's face turned serious as she looked towards the commotion. The President also turned in the same direction and prepared her powers. If Aric wasn't mistaken, she was Stella, the second President of the Republic of Sienna and the only female president up until 3023.
Stella had also instructed several of her subordinates to be ready. Zenith officers positioned around the square began to move quickly, their demeanor shifting to high alert as they assessed the situation.
The festive atmosphere grew tense as everyone sensed the potential danger.
"Monsters!" the visitors screamed, their terror palpable as they scattered in all directions. The guttural roars of the monsters echoed from every corner, creating a symphony of fear.
Clara glanced at Aric, who was focused intently, his eyes scanning the creatures that had appeared.
"Grade D, Level 30," Aric announced, his voice louder than he intended.
"Level? Since when do monsters have levels, Aric?" Clara asked, her bewilderment evident.
Aric quickly clarified, "It's part of my powers, Clara."
His tone was grave. He was torn, unsure whether to intervene, and risk altering the timeline of the year 3023.
"Don't worry," C99 reassured, sensing his hesitation. "The system confirms that you're meant to be here and your actions won't disrupt anything."
Relief washed over Aric, and he smiled. His worries about inadvertently affecting the future dissipated.
"Clara, may I hold your hand?" Aric asked suddenly, his expression serious.
Clara blushed. "S-sure." She extended her hand, allowing Aric to grasp it.
"Electrokinesis…" Aric muttered, excitement flickering in his eyes as electricity danced across his fingers.
Clara stared in amazement. "You have the same power as me?"
Aric chuckled. "No, I can copy other people's powers. But please, keep this a secret."
Clara nodded, still visibly impressed by his ability.
After copying Clara's power, Aric noticed he didn't gain any additional attributes or levels. C99 explained that Aric's inherent attributes far exceeded Clara's.
However, one detail surprised him—Clara's power grade was SSS. With such potential, it was strange that he had never heard of Clara Martinez in 3023.
"Shall we?" Aric asked.
"Where to?" Clara responded.
"To eliminate the monsters!" Aric shouted, excitement coloring his voice as he dashed ahead, leaving Clara momentarily bewildered.
Clara hesitated, remembering Aric's earlier analysis. 'Level 30? What's my level? Can I fight these monsters?' she wondered. Nonetheless, she steeled herself and attacked from a distance, determined to help save the civilians.
Aric used electrokinesis to propel himself into the air, gaining a bird's-eye view of the battlefield. From his vantage point, he could better assess the enemy's positions and strategize their next move.
As soon as Aric detected the enemies, he unleashed a barrage of 'Electro Bolts' toward them. He tried to avoid shouting the technique's name, recalling the times C99 had teased him for it.
"Good job," C99 teased, her laughter light and playful. "But do what makes you comfortable, Aric. I was just teasing earlier."
Aric smiled, continuing to release the 'Electro Bolts' at the approaching monsters. The bolts struck their targets, sending electric shocks rippling through the creatures. They were instantly charred, the acrid smell of burnt flesh filling the air.
"Electro Bolts?" Clara said, still stunned by what she had witnessed. "He can use my technique too? Amazing."
Unbeknownst to Clara, a Rock Golem had crept up behind her, ready to strike.
Aric noticed the danger and acted swiftly. "Electro Dash!"
"He's shouting the technique name again," C99 remarked with a smirk.
In an instant, Aric appeared behind Clara, effortlessly blocking the Rock Golem's strike. The difference in their power levels was glaringly obvious. "No, no. You can't touch her," Aric said with a sly smile.
The Rock Golem, despite its level and grade, lacked the intelligence to comprehend Aric's taunt. Without wasting any time, Aric landed a powerful punch, shattering the Golem's body into rubble.
"Aric?" Clara said, her voice tinged with surprise.
She hadn't noticed when Aric had moved behind her, but the sight of the shattered Rock Golem made everything clear.
"Be careful, Clara. Focus," Aric instructed, his eyes scanning the surroundings for threats. He had spotted several hooded figures earlier, directing the monsters.
"Monster Manipulators," C99 said. "They are Novas with the ability to control monsters."
"I want to eliminate them, but I'm worried the monsters will become more rampant if their connection is severed," Aric expressed his concern.
"Understood. But it's better if you eliminate the manipulators first. The wild monsters can be handled by Zenith and the other present Novas," C99 replied.
Aric nodded in understanding before turning to Clara. "The monsters over there should be manageable for you, Clara," he said, pointing to the left side of the stage. "Focus on ranged attacks. Using 'Electro Bolts' should be enough."
Clara tilted her head, concern evident in her eyes. "Where are you going?"
Aric's expression grew serious. "There are Novas with the power to control these monsters. I need to take them out."
"Novas? Are you saying humans are behind this?" Clara asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Aric nodded, lowering his voice. "If I'm not mistaken, this is the work of Rogue Novas."
Even in the year 3023, Rogue Novas continued to be a thorn in society's side. These renegades often possessed powers rivaling Supreme Novas, and their actions were rarely random. Whispers abounded about an organized group with the audacious aim of toppling the government.
"Rogue Novas? But their attacks are so coordinated and powerful," Clara observed.
Aric glanced at Stella and then smiled reassuringly at Clara. "Maybe we won't have to do much. It's already being handled."
Clara followed his gaze and saw Stella removing her coat and strapping a small box to her body. Aric's eyes lit up with curiosity and admiration. 'Outdated nanotechnology, but still cool,' he mused.
As the nanobots enveloped Stella, forming an advanced battle suit, she turned to the Zenith officers around her. "Let me handle this," she said, her voice confident and unwavering.
The sight was impressive, even if the tech was older compared to what Aric had seen in 3023. Stella's resolve and the sleek, functional suit left no doubt—she was ready for battle.