The dust settled on the Vargas mission, leaving Kaelen with a sense of satisfaction and a newfound understanding of Forge City's complex dynamics. It wasn't just a haven for outcasts and mercenaries; it was a chessboard where various factions maneuvered for power, influence, and resources. And he and Flicker had just made a move, whether they intended to or not.
They returned to The Rusty Cog, where Gunner and Torque were waiting, their faces etched with a mixture of relief and curiosity. The sight of the pair made Kaelen feel slightly better to know that he made the right decision in picking Gunner and his crew.
"So," Gunner said, leaning back in his booth. "What happened back there? We heard some… commotion."
Kaelen recounted the events in Vargas's office, explaining the cognitive override, Flicker's intervention, and their decision to leave Vargas to the mercy of the freed Rust Hounds.
Gunner listened intently, his expression growing increasingly grim. "Vargas has been messing with some dangerous tech," he said, shaking his head. "That kind of thing can attract unwanted attention. We need to be careful."
"What kind of attention?" Kaelen asked, sensing a shift in the atmosphere.
"The kind that can get you killed," Torque replied, his voice gruff. "Forge City isn't exactly known for its peaceful co-existence. There are plenty of groups who would love to get their hands on Vargas's little mind-control trick."
Flicker chimed in. "And it wasn't just Vargas. Someone was supplying him with that technology. We need to find out who, and why."
Kaelen realized that they had stumbled upon something much bigger than a simple debt collection. They had uncovered a conspiracy that could have far-reaching consequences for Forge City and beyond.
"So what do we do?" Kaelen asked. "Do we investigate?"
Gunner hesitated, his eyes narrowed. "That's a risky proposition. It could put us in the crosshairs of some very powerful people. I'm not sure it's worth it."
Flicker, however, was undeterred. "We can't just let it go, Gunner. Someone has to stop these guys. Besides, this could be an opportunity. If we find out who's behind this, we could gain some serious leverage."
Gunner sighed, running a hand through his grizzled hair. "Alright, alright. We'll look into it. But we're going to be careful. No unnecessary risks."
With the decision made, they turned their attention to splitting the spoils of the Vargas mission. Gunner, true to his word, gave Kaelen a fair share of the credits, enough to cover Sparks's repair fees and still have some left over.
As he pondered what to do with his earnings, Flicker approached him, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, Kaelen," she said. "About that drink you owe me…"
Kaelen grinned. "I haven't forgotten. Where do you want to go?"
Flicker led him to a less rowdy establishment, a dimly lit bar called "The Circuit Breaker". The atmosphere was more relaxed, the music softer, and the patrons more diverse. There were a few Dominion deserters, a couple of independent traders, and even what appeared to be a diplomat from a neighboring settlement.
They found a secluded table in the corner and ordered a couple of drinks. As they sipped their synth-ale, Kaelen found himself opening up to Flicker, sharing his past life, his sudden reincarnation, and his quest to rebuild the Titan-Fall.
Flicker listened intently, her expression thoughtful. She seemed genuinely interested in his story, asking insightful questions and offering words of encouragement.
"That's quite a journey," she said, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "You've been through a lot. But you're not giving up. I admire that."
Kaelen blushed, feeling a warmth spread through him. "Thanks," he said. "It means a lot coming from you."
As they talked, Kaelen learned more about Flicker's background. She had been born in Forge City, raised on the streets, and forced to fend for herself from a young age. She had learned to be resourceful, independent, and resilient. She had seen the worst of Forge City, but she had never lost her hope or her compassion.
"This city is rough," she said, her voice softening. "But it's also full of opportunities. You just have to know where to look."
Kaelen found himself increasingly drawn to Flicker. He admired her strength, her intelligence, and her unwavering optimism. He enjoyed her company, her laughter, and her genuine concern for his well-being. He was starting to realize that his feelings for her were more than just friendship. He was falling for her.
As the evening wore on, they were approached by a mysterious figure, a shadowy individual known only as "Whisper." Whisper was a notorious information broker, rumored to have connections throughout Forge City's underworld.
"I hear you're looking into Vargas's little side project," Whisper said, his voice a low, gravelly murmur.
Kaelen and Flicker exchanged glances, their senses on high alert.
"Who wants to know?" Kaelen asked, his hand instinctively reaching for his weapon.
Whisper chuckled. "Someone who is willing to pay for information. I know who was supplying Vargas with that tech, and I know why. Are you interested?"
Kaelen hesitated. He knew that dealing with Whisper was a dangerous game. The information broker was known for his unscrupulous methods and his willingness to betray anyone for the right price. But the offer was too tempting to resist.
"What's the price?" Kaelen asked, his eyes narrowed.
Whisper smiled, a chillingly predatory expression. "Let's just say… it's a bit more than credits."
The revelation was shocking to see how Whisper would make deals with others. As Whisper was about to discuss his price to provide the data, there was a surge of energy near the bar and a mech fell through the roof.
The mech groaned and struggled to get up only for Dominion soldiers to show. The squad stormed in to the Circuit Breaker and the squad began to announce. "The Circuit Breaker is now under Dominion control. All patrons will be taken into custody."
Kaelen looked at Whisper and it seemed he vanished from their site.