Chapter 8: The Edge of Power
The day had finally arrived for RagRocK and the other recruits to undergo the Protector augmentation process. The atmosphere in the facility was tense, a blend of anticipation and fear that hung heavy in the air. This was no ordinary experiment; it was a life-altering gamble with no guarantee of success.
RagRocK stood in line with the other recruits, his heart pounding. He glanced over at Tripathi, who, despite the seriousness of the moment, managed to flash him a goofy grin.
"Don't worry, mate," Tripathi said. "If this goes south, at least you'll make a great cautionary tale for the next batch of recruits."
"Thanks for the confidence boost," RagRocK replied dryly.
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The Experiment
The recruits were led into a sterile lab, where a team of scientists awaited them. At the center of the room stood ten futuristic pods, each equipped with a network of glowing wires and monitors.
Commander Kaur addressed the group. "You are about to undergo a procedure that will unlock the latent potential in your DNA. This process is not without risk. Out of every hundred participants, only a handful emerge stronger. The rest…" She paused, her gaze sweeping over the recruits. "The rest don't survive."
RagRocK swallowed hard but stepped forward when his name was called. The scientists guided him into one of the pods, attaching electrodes to his body and inserting IV lines filled with a glowing blue serum.
"Relax," one of the scientists said. "The serum will do the work. You'll feel a little discomfort, but nothing you can't handle."
The pod sealed shut, and the hum of machinery filled the air. RagRocK closed his eyes as the serum coursed through his veins, a searing heat spreading through his body. Every nerve seemed to ignite, his muscles twitching uncontrollably.
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Awakening
Hours later, RagRocK awoke in the recovery bay, his body drenched in sweat. His limbs felt heavier, his senses sharper. He sat up slowly, noting the silence around him. Out of the original group, only ten recruits had survived the experiment.
A scientist approached him with a tablet. "Congratulations, RagRocK. You've made it through. Your augmentation is unique—something we've never seen before."
RagRocK raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
The scientist gestured to a nearby table where a variety of weapons had been laid out. "Pick any weapon. Your ability allows you to master it instantly, regardless of complexity or design."
Curious, RagRocK picked up an advanced sniper rifle. The moment his fingers wrapped around it, he felt a strange connection, as if the weapon were an extension of his body. Without hesitation, he aimed at a distant target and fired, hitting the bullseye with perfect precision.
"Impressive," the scientist said, making notes on the tablet. "Your power isn't just physical—it's instinctive. You've essentially become a living arsenal."
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Reactions
The other recruits, each discovering their own abilities, gathered in the training yard for a demonstration. One could manipulate fire, another had superhuman speed, while a third had skin as hard as steel.
Tripathi, who had merely observed the experiment this time, was waiting nearby with his usual flair.
"Ah, the prodigal soldier returns," he said, clapping RagRocK on the back. "What's your superpower? Charm? Wit? Or did they finally give you a personality upgrade?"
RagRocK smirked. "I can use any weapon perfectly. What about you?"
Tripathi feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. "I'm the moral support, obviously. Every great hero needs someone to keep them grounded."
"Or distracted," RagRocK muttered, shaking his head.
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The Protector's Challenge
Later that evening, Commander Kaur gathered the survivors for a briefing. "Your journey has just begun. The powers you've gained are tools, but it's up to you to wield them responsibly. Training starts tomorrow at dawn. Be prepared—there are no second chances."
RagRocK stood among the other survivors, feeling a mix of pride and determination. He thought of his family, still recovering in the hospital, and his brother Aryan's final words: Live.
As the group dispersed, Tripathi caught up to him. "So, big guy, what's the plan? Save the world, avenge your family, and maybe star in a few movies along the way?"
"Something like that," RagRocK said, his voice steady. "But first, I need to learn how to use this power. Properly."
Tripathi grinned. "Well, lucky for you, I'm here to make sure you don't take yourself too seriously. Let's face it, no one likes a brooding hero."
RagRocK couldn't help but laugh. Despite the challenges ahead, he knew one thing for sure—this was just the beginning of his story.