Melton stood beneath the shower, as water cascaded down his body and mixed with the blood from his injuries. The constant flow of water provided some relief for the intense muscular pain, yet it couldn't erase the overwhelming memories in his mind. While clutching the shower pipe, memories of his old team members' deaths in the previous timeline overwhelmed him.
Cass's quiet confidence resonated in his ears. "We've survived worse, Melton. Just stay focused." But focus hadn't saved Cass, nor had it saved any of them. The betrayal, the blood, the final moments—they replayed endlessly, a cruel loop in his memory.
Melton turned off the shower, the silence in the bathroom almost deafening as he stepped out. He dried off mechanically, pushing the memories back into the recesses of his mind, locking them away where they couldn't haunt him for the moment.
He moved into the living room, his body still aching but his mind sharp. He retrieved a new laptop from his bag, placing it on the small table. The laptop was sleek, advanced, but still inferior to the tech he had once handled. Nevertheless, Melton's fingers moved with practiced precision as he skillfully set up the laptop, his hacking skills taking over. The device was ready in no time, a small testament to the man he once was.
"Nexus," Melton called out, his voice low but firm. "Give me the status on this new timeline. What am I dealing with?"
There was a brief pause before Nexus responded, the familiar mechanical tone bringing a small sense of comfort. "Analyzing the data... Timeline scan indicates significant deviations from prior experiences. Major power players identified, societal structure moderately oppressive. Potential threats include organized crime syndicates, rogue mercenaries, and governmental agencies. However, opportunities for exploitation exist within the system's current weaknesses."
Melton gazed at his fresh laptop's screen, his mind racing while he absorbed Nexus's first evaluation of the timeline. Reclining in his seat, he felt the stress leave his body as he redirected his attention to the upcoming task.
Melton started off by saying, "Nexus" his tone calm yet inquisitive, "you talked about vulnerabilities in this system. What are we specifically discussing in this situation?"
Nexus took a moment before responding, its tone precise as it carefully considered the information before sharing it. "The system in this particular timeline, despite being strong, has some imperfections. Numerous critical weaknesses have been discovered. Initially, the societal framework depends greatly on a centralized power network, so any interruption in communication or command could result in widespread disorder."
Melton's eyebrow arched with interest. "Are you suggesting that if the central command is removed, the entire system could collapse?"
"Yes Melton, that is correct," Nexus verified. "Nevertheless, this method is debated because of the potential unintended consequences it may have. The main headquarters is deeply integrated into civilian infrastructure, making any direct assault likely to result in a large number of innocent casualties."
Melton's expression turned into a frown as he quickly considered the implications. "It's a situation with both positive and negative consequences. Removing the order may weaken the structure and lead to potential backlash from the population."
"Correct," Nexus replied. "But there are other weaknesses. For instance, the governing bodies and organized crime syndicates in this timeline maintain a delicate balance of power. This balance is sustained by a series of unspoken agreements and backdoor deals. If one were to expose these dealings to the public, it could destabilize both entities."
Melton smirked, finding a hint of satisfaction in the idea. "Erebus…..So, a well-timed leak of information could pit them against each other?"
"Yes," Nexus agreed. "But again, this approach is not without risks. The syndicates and government have deep resources and would likely retaliate harshly against anyone perceived as a threat. You'd have to be prepared to handle the backlash."
Melton nodded thoughtfully, considering the angles. "What about economic weaknesses? Every system has financial pressure points."
"Yes," Nexus admitted. "A small number of influential families control the majority of the financial markets, influencing the economic infrastructure. These families have acquired their riches through monopolies, corruption, and exploitation. Causing disruption to their activities could have a ripple effect on the economy, possibly leading to the collapse of their power, creating a vacant position."
Melton pondered, "It sounds very tempting, but how can I disrupt their operations without making myself a target?"
Nexus proposed an idea "Infiltrating their organizations and causing subtle sabotage from within. Nevertheless, it would demand time, patience, and a certain level of discretion that may not match your current situation. Instead, you could take advantage of their reliance on specific essential resources by controlling or destroying them in order to disrupt their activities."
Melton drummed his fingers on the table, putting together the puzzle in his mind. "What about the mercenary groups? How do they integrate into this?"
Nexus then clarifies "The mercenaries function independently from the usual sources of authority. They serve as unpredictables, commonly utilized by both authorities and criminal organizations for covert missions. Nevertheless, they lack genuine allegiance and are motivated by financial gain. This factor can make them either a valuable partner or a dangerous adversary, depending on the approach taken."
Melton leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "So, if I could gain control over the mercenary network, I could use them as leverage against both the government and the syndicates?"
"Yes," Nexus confirmed. "But gaining that control would require either substantial financial resources or the ability to offer something more valuable than money—such as protection, information, or power. It's a risky move, but if successful, it could tip the balance in your favor."
Melton sat back, absorbing the information. "So, to sum it up: I can target the central command, expose corruption, disrupt the economy, or manipulate the mercenaries. All of these options are controversial and come with their own set of risks."
"That is correct," Nexus replied. "Each strategy has the potential to either dismantle the system or place you in even greater danger. The choice is yours, Melton, but remember: the most successful strategies often involve a combination of approaches rather than relying on a single point of attack."
Melton nodded slowly, a determined glint in his eye. "Thanks, Nexus. You've given me a lot to think about. It's time to start planning."
Melton absorbed the information, his mind already formulating strategies and contingencies. This timeline was new, unfamiliar, but he knew the rules of survival. Adapt or die. And he wasn't ready
to die just yet, he was hell bent on finding Erebus.