Viktor, Jayce, and Mel were gathered in the former two's shared lab, the air thick with tension that could only be born from the pursuit of scientific progress. The lab itself was a testament to the genius of its owners, filled with intricate machinery, glowing Hextech crystals, and the soft hum of technology. The walls were lined with shelves crammed with books, blueprints, and various experimental devices. The central workbench was cluttered with tools and parts, a controlled chaos that spoke of relentless innovation.

Viktor's hands moved deftly over the Hextech core, the blue light reflecting off his intense, furrowed brow. His frustration was evident in the sharp, precise movements of his tools. He muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible over the hum of machinery. His mind, however, was clearly elsewhere, grappling with the implications of the day's events and what he was just informed of.

"I can't believe you agreed to this without consulting me," Viktor finally grumbled out. He set down his tools with a loud clatter, turning to face Jayce and Mel. "In two days, complete strangers are going to enter our lab and I am expected to be just go along with it?"

Sky, who was assisting with a nearby project, glanced up from her work. Her brown hair was tied back as usual, and her fingers were deftly assembling a small Hextech device. "They didn't seem like the typical outsiders, though," she commented, her voice calm and measured, "That… Library on the bridge really seems like something out of a fairytale. Who knows? Maybe they could be of actual help rather than the hindrance that you are thinking they could be."

One sharp, disapproving look from Viktor caused Sky to quickly return to her work, but her ears remained tuned to the conversation.

Jayce took a deep breath, trying to remain calm in the face of Viktor's ire as his partner turned back to look at him directly. "It's a sign of trust on our end to be willing to showcase the best of Piltover out from the gate. Isn't making it clear that we're trustworthy from the jump really a bad thing?"

"Others would see it as being naive and easily manipulated." The brown haired scientist pointed out in a deadpan manner.

"That may very well be true. However, it does need to be mentioned that they were the first to extend the bridge of trust." At his doubtful eyebrow being raised, Mel continued on, crossing her arms over her chest, "The fact that they haven't tried any outwardly aggressive acts proves that they truly do not seek any conflict with us, the fact that they willing came into our council room and negotiated with us in good faith is proof in of itself that they want, at the very least, a stable and non-hostile relationship with Piltover so long as they stay here. Whom are we to simply turn away and outright antagonize such people who have, thus far, mean to bring us no harm."

"And I am sure that the fact that they have offered to provide never before seen resources and willingly offer their services have nothing to do with establishing a working relationship with the Library."

To her credit, the dark skinned council member did not deny this accusation, merely choosing to respond with, "And why is that such a bad thing? We provide them a place of sanctuary, and in exchange, they provide us with services that will benefit Piltover. Who doesn't like a good deal, especially one where we all get to benefit from their continued stay? Science is the bedrock Piltover was built upon, and this Library seems to know a lot about science. We could use the knowledge, especially when our relationship with Zaun is getting more and more tense." She reminded him, her expression stern and serious.

"We all get to benefit? You truly believe that what these 'librarians' could aid and improve upon in our research?" Viktor questioned as he sat down on a nearby chair, doubt in his voice reflecting his expression of disbelief.

"They have knowledge that could help us further Hextech research," Jayce answered with certainty, reaching into his pocket. "Look at this."

He produced a small contraption, delicate and intricate, and handed it to Viktor. The device was a marvel, a tiny mechanism of gears that seemed to pulse with a life of its own.

"And this is…?"

"This is proof," Jayce added, his eyes locking with Viktor's. "From what Mr. Hokma said, this is one of the first things he and his old partner made in the early days of their partnership."

Viktor took the device, his irritation momentarily giving way to curiosity. He examined it closely, his eyes widening as he realized the level of sophistication it represented. Every tiny part fit together with an elegance and precision that surpassed anything he had ever seen. "This is... far more advanced than anything we've made. Maybe even more than Hextech itself," he murmured, unable to hide his awe.

Jayce nodded, the excitement of new scientific possibilities in his voice. "Exactly. This could push Hextech to the next level!"

Viktor's expression hardened again as he handed the device back. "Don't get too ahead of yourself," he warned. "We know nothing about these people. For all we know, they could be using us."

Mel spoke up once again, her voice was calm but carried an edge of authority. "Agreed. But they have proven to be agreeable and understanding... so far. We need to be cautious, but we also need to be open to the possibilities."

She leaned forward, her gaze steady and piercing, forcing Viktor to look straight in her eyes, which were flickering with thoughtful consideration.

"We'll get to know our new 'tenants' soon enough. Viktor, please try your best to work Hokma and Yesod when they arrive. Their expertise could be invaluable."

Viktor sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly. He knew she was right, but it didn't make the situation any easier to swallow. "Alright. I… Shall do my best to work with them," he conceded, his voice softer now. He then turned to Jayce, a question in his eyes. "What kind of first impressions did Hokma give off? I need to know what to prepare for."

Jayce leaned against the workbench, crossing his arms. He seemed to consider his words carefully. "He's a gentlemanly sort, kinda like Professor Heimerdinger, but much more serious and to the point. I get the feeling that if I were taking his class back at the academy, I would have flunked out big time and I am pretty sure that treating him like the professor might make us look like we don't know what we're doing."

Viktor nodded slowly, his mind already working through how to handle their new collaborators. "They'll know otherwise," he said firmly, determination in his voice. "And what about the others from the meeting?"

"Angela is the one whom Head Councilor Heimerdinger first met when the Library first appeared and is very much the leader of the group, so should you encounter her, be sure to take extra care to try not and not get on her bad side…If you can't tell from how she acts."

"And by that, you mean…?"

Mel paused, taking a moment to find her words, as if trying to find the right description to fit the one known as the Director of the Library.

"She makes it very difficult to know if she is human…or that she is simply playing the part of one. She's rather polite and soft-spoken, but…I am unsure. I have a feeling she's holding a big stick somewhere as well, but I rather that we do not find out the hard way just what that is."

That…is definitely curious and something to watch out for, "And the other two?"

"Well, there's this one known as Chesed, who is very much a coffee fiend and whose first question he personally had for us revolved around the stuff. I'm not sure if he's going to be dealing with the scientific side of this meeting like the rest of the Librarians who will be visiting, but he seems to be more of a people's person." He seemed a lot more casual and relaxed than any other Librarian seemed thus far. "As he will be the one with Angela when she comes to meet with the council about the details of our deal, I will be sure to make sure the finest coffee we have around will be present." Mel stated, clearly more comfortable with the shift in subject matter, "A particularly curious thing to note about him is that he seems to have had some kind of noble upbringing."

"Wait really?" Jayce stated, blinking in surprise, "He didn't mention anything about that. Could you tell from just looking at him?'

"From the way he talked, to how to presented himself, he no doubt comes from an truly privileged background." The dark skinned council member stated with the utmost confidence, "In fact, one would think he belonged to one of Piltover's Great Houses by just interacting with him. Which he isn't by the way, I've already had my people check."

"How fascinating." Viktor rolled his eyes at that, "And the last one? Her name was Binah, correct? What was she like?"

"...That woman has the creepiest laugh I have ever heard," Jayce state flatly, shivering slightly at the memory, "I am glad that the Enforcers will be surrounding her most of the time, I seriously would not feel comfortable with that kind of person running around the city with someone having on her at all times. I hope this Hod woman she's going to bring with her is a lot more approachable."

"Indeed, but we must deal with the cards we have been dealt with." Mel replied, "Besides, they've all proven to be reasonable enough thus far. How bad can she really be?"

"...When one says something like that, it is usually the prelude to a complete and utter disaster."

"Um, Binah… Are you alright?"

"Of course. Why wouldn't I be, dear Hod?"

"You just started laughing to yourself randomly, and it's disturbing everyone. More than usual, if I am to be frank."

In the dimly lit breakroom near the Floor of General Works, a tranquil scene unfolded. The room, though modest in size, was comfortably furnished with plush chairs and a low wooden table at its center. Soft, ambient lighting cast a warm glow, creating an atmosphere of quiet relaxation. Shelves lined the walls, filled with books and curiosities collected over the years, while the faint aroma of herbal tea and freshly baked pastries filled the air.

Binah, Hod, Yesod, Malkuth, and Netzach had gathered here, their coats draped over the backs of their seats. The typically formal Librarians had shed their usual airs of authority, their expressions softer and more relaxed than usual. Their Librarian Assistants, dedicated and attentive, moved about the room with practiced ease, ensuring that each of them was comfortable and well-served.

Binah reclined in her chair with an almost lazy grace, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders. Her piercing eyes, usually so sharp and calculating, now held a rare glint of amusement, which usually meant that said amusement was at the detriment of someone…or at some disturbing concept like how the best tea is that whose leaves are boiled when it's the freshest. The concept wasn't all that disturbing; it's how she applies it to humans that was less-than-comforting.

One of her assistants, a quiet young woman with silver hair, approached with a tray of delicate pastries and a steaming pot of herbal tea.

"Thank you, Nila," Binah murmured, her voice a smooth purr as she accepted a cup of tea. She took a sip, savoring the flavor, and leaned back further into her chair. "As for your question, this is simply the reaction one has when they are being talked about from other parties in a distance. It never fails to be amusing, even with my days as an Arbiter long passed."

Hod, sitting nearby, watched Binah with a mix of concern and curiosity. Her bright, cheerful demeanor was a stark contrast to Binah's enigmatic presence. She decided to forgo the question about 'Who's talking about it' to skip to a question relating to the consequences: "You do realize it's a bit unsettling, right?"

Binah's lips curled into a slight smile. "Unsettling for some, perhaps. For me, it's a reminder of the endless webs we weave and the shadows we cast."

Across the table, Yesod sat with a composed and thoughtful expression. His assistant, a young man with meticulously combed hair, handed him a cup of cool, mint-infused tea. Yesod accepted it with a nod of thanks, his demeanor as precise as ever. "It's rare to see you so… entertained, Binah," he remarked, taking a measured sip. "One might wonder what could possibly amuse you so much."

Malkuth, ever energetic and enthusiastic, bounced slightly in her seat as she reached for a pastry. Her assistant, a petite girl with braided hair, giggled softly at her exuberance. "It's probably something to do with the people at Piltover you'll be with. Those Enforcers folk, right?"

Netzach, the most laid-back of the group, slouched comfortably in his chair. His assistant, a calm and composed woman with long, flowing hair, handed him a cup of iced tea, a borderline blasphemous concoction in Binah's eyes. Netzach took it with a lazy smile, his eyes half-closed in contentment. "Or maybe she's just thinking of ways to mess with them," he drawled, taking a long sip. "You know how she is."

Binah chuckled softly, a sound both melodic and unsettling. "Perhaps a bit of both," she admitted, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "One in particular has caught my interest, one with dark blue hair. I am hoping that she's willing to give me a personal tour of the city while dearest Hod here deals with the general group that's supposed to be with us during our time in Piltover. I am sure that she'll make for a delightful guide for me into this… unique environment."

Hod blinked at that, "And you'll be leaving me alone with a bunch of strangers? You know we can't even bring any of our assistants over with us until the people of Piltover are more comfortable with our presence, right?" It's not that she was particularly upset about meeting new people, but walking into a cynical group and attempting to demonstrate how trustworthy the Library was might've been a bit difficult with only one person.

…Then again…If it was Binah who was going to accompany her…then perhaps handling this by her lonesome was not that bad of an idea, Hod reasoned, even if some assistant Librarians being around would've made her a little more comfortable.

Said assistants, having ensured that each of the Librarians was well taken care of, quietly retreated to the edges of the room, ready to assist if needed but respecting the peaceful atmosphere and wanting to avoid the potential conflict that may arise from their patrons arguing.

Binah's enigmatic smile didn't waver. "Think about it, Hod. Our roles here in the Library have always required a certain adaptability and a knack for reading people. While I understand your apprehension, consider this: by splitting our efforts, we cover more ground. You, with your empathy and understanding, will be perfect for managing the larger group. Your ability to connect on a personal level will be invaluable in making a good first impression."

Hod, nibbling on a cookie, glanced at Binah again, having come to her own conclusions. "Alright, I'll trust your judgment on this. Just… try not to scare her off too soon, okay? We really have to do our best to make good impressions on these people, which includes not making vaguely threatening euphemisms about boiling people when they're at their freshest to extract their full potential." She was pretty sure that the former Arbiter's metaphors and comparisons creeped some of Library's denizens out, and they knew her for years!

Binah raised her cup in a mock toast. "No promises, dear Hod. No promises at all."

"That is the least reassuring thing you could have said!"

"And what about you, Yesod? You and Hokma will be working with Jayce and Viktor on this Hextech stuff, right?" Malkuth leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and letting Hod run an exasperated hand on her face.. "How do you plan to handle this whole situation?"

Yesod, who had been quietly sipping his tea, glanced up at Malkuth. His assistant, a meticulous young man with glasses, handed him a tray of assorted snacks, which he accepted with a nod of thanks.

"I had a discussion with Hokma about this," Yesod began, his voice measured and thoughtful. "We both agreed that while Hextech holds incredible potential, it also poses significant risks. We must be cautious in how much knowledge we share with Viktor and Jayce. Our goal is to guide their research as a form of negotiated trade deal to thank them for allowing us a rent-free stay on this bridge without allowing their endeavours to spiral out of control. Too much information could lead to catastrophic consequences, not just for Piltover, but potentially for the entire world, especially since, as it turns out, the world is a lot bigger than one would be led to assume in the City."

Malkuth frowned, her fingers tapping restlessly on the table. "But how do you determine what is too much? They're going to be curious, especially if they see what we're capable of."

Yesod nodded, acknowledging the concern. "It's a delicate balance. We will provide enough aid to ensure their research follows a safe and constructive path. We'll help them avoid particularly damaging pitfalls and guide them through complex problems that could otherwise lead to disaster. But we will hold back the more dangerous aspects of our knowledge. We must protect them from themselves, even if they don't realize the dangers they're potentially courting."

Netzach yawned, stretching lazily in his chair. "Sounds like a lot of work. You sure you're up for it, Yesod? This kind of responsibility isn't exactly light."

"It's what must be done, if our stay here if to be as fruitful as possible without giving our new landlord reason to see us as simply invaders that needs to be kicked out of their city…again."

The green haired Librarian shrugged at that, "Alright, if you're sure that's the best way to handle things, who am I to you otherwise? By the way, where is Hokma right now?"

"With Angela and the bean juice addict." Binah answered promptly after taking another sip of her tea, "Right now, she's talking over things to Chesed on what the Library can, can't, should, and shouldn't be offered to Piltover. She is also looking over half of the Shimmer substance Powder took from our newest "guest" for reasons she has yet to give."

Netzach's eyebrows rose slightly. "Shimmer, huh? Even just by looking at that stuff, it is definitely nasty business. She must have a plan, then."

"More so than Powder does at the moment."

Space was not a problem in the Library. An empty hall the size of a ballroom had been chosen for the purpose, an area sometimes used for training new Librarian Assistants when not left unvisited for weeks at a time.

Now long tables had been set out along the walls and across the floor, covered with a varying array of objects taken from the gang that tried to assault the patrons outside of the Velvet Rose. There was a strict order to the collection, with items laid out neatly in straight lines, many with small notes attached.

Today, four Patron Librarians and their assistants were in the room.

At the moment, Roland, Gebura, and Tiphereth were standing in front of the tables, their respective jackets removed, watching as Powder—who also had her Patron Librarian coat off—was finishing organizing a long whiteboard. She was drawing on it with markers and pinning certain papers to it.

"And done! You really made this easier than it should have been for me, Suho!" the blue-haired teen exclaimed, preening at her assistant, who smiled back gratefully.

Powder turned to face the gathered Patron Librarians, her expression shifting from one of satisfaction to one of grim determination. "Alright, listen up girls and boys. I've got the rundown on Silco and his operation in Zaun thanks to our good friend Clive!"

The Patron of Natural Sciences unknowingly let out a growl at the name.

"Um…Miss Tiphereth?" The Librarian Assistant - a mousy looking girl with a dark yellow bow tied on her head - turned to her, worry clear in her expression.

"Yes Johnna?"

"You know we can all hear you sounding like a bear, right?"

"You don't think I don't know what I sound like?!"

Barring Tiphereth practically barking in the ear of the poor assistant who accidentally caught her ire, all eyes on her as she began to recount the information she had extracted from Clive.

"Silco is the one pulling all the strings in Zaun. He's got a whole network of Chem Barons working under him, each controlling a different aspect of the undercity."

She pointed to the first section of the whiteboard, where a crude sketch of a fierce-looking woman with a robotic arm was pinned. "First, there's Sevika. She's his top enforcer. Ruthless, efficient, and utterly loyal to Silco. If you see her, expect trouble."

Next, she moved to a section labeled 'The Hush Company,' where another sketch depicted a shifty-eyed man in a wheelchair. "This is Chross. He runs The Hush Company. It's a vast network of informants and fences, acting as the switchboard for any and all illicit activity in Zaun. If something shady is going down, he knows about it."

Powder continued, pointing to a sketch of a voluptuous woman surrounded by a haze of smoke. "Margot, who is dear ol' Clive's boss. She owns The Vyx, which provides… pleasure services in the undercity. Anything you can think of, and probably some things you can't, she offers it. She caters to any impulse, persuasion, or inclination."

The next section showed a stern woman holding a wrench. "Renni and her company, the Sludgerunners, manufacture chemtech devices for the denizens of the undercity. If it's techy and dangerous, it likely came from her."

She moved to a sketch of a sly, sharp-eyed man. "Finn runs the Slickjaws. They specialize in elimination services and purvey both weaponry, including poisons, and manpower for large-scale operations. He's the one you hire if you need someone—or something—gone."

Finally, she pointed to a depiction of a heavily modified individual with mechanical limbs. "And this is Smeech. He leads the Scrap Hackers. They perform all sorts of cybernetic modifications. If you see someone with heavy augmentations, chances are, Smeech had a hand in it in one way or another."

Powder stepped back, surveying the faces of her fellow Librarians. "Silco's got Zaun in a stranglehold with these Chem Barons at his beck and call. Each of them plays a crucial role in maintaining his power. If we're going to make a move against him, we need to understand who we're dealing with and what they control."

Roland nodded, his expression serious as he crossed his arms over his chest. The light from the overhead fixtures reflected off his stoic features, casting shadows that accentuated the hardened lines of his face. "That's quite the rogues gallery," he said, his voice tinged with a slight reminiscence. "No wonder Zaun's such a mess. That lineup reminds me of how things are in the Backstreets, almost down to the wire, actually

Gebura, standing with a posture that exuded strength, cracked her knuckles deliberately, the sound echoing in the quiet room. Her eyes narrowed as a contemplative expression crossed her face, her mind already turning over the possibilities. "Sounds like quite the challenge. Just going headfirst and swinging ain't gonna cut it with something like this, is it?"

Tiphereth, smaller in stature but no less intense, looked thoughtful. Her small hands were clasped tightly in front of her, and her gaze was fixed on the whiteboard with a focused intensity. The ambient light highlighted the sharp angles of her face, casting a thoughtful shadow as she considered the gravity of their situation. "We'll need to strategize carefully," she said, her tone of voice the complete opposite of what it was just moments ago. "Each of these Barons has their own strengths and weaknesses. If we're to disrupt Silco's control, we'll need to target them effectively." His words were deliberate, underscoring the importance of a well-thought-out plan.

Powder nodded, her eyes ablaze with determination. Her blue hair framed her face, which was set in a resolute expression. "And that's exactly how we're gonna handle this," she declared. "If you want to bring someone down, you gotta destroy the foundation they're standing on." Her voice was steady and confident, betraying none of the doubt that might have crept in with such a daunting task.

Gebura raised her eyebrows, her interest clearly piqued. "Sounds like you've got an actual plan for once," she said, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity. "Alright you lil' gremlin, let's hear what you've got."

Powder's lips curled into a grin, her enthusiasm evident. She slammed a hand onto the whiteboard, her fingers leaving a faint smudge on the surface. "Alright, here's how we're gonna handle this…"

With their jackets put in the corner at the moment, Angela, Chesed, and Hokma were in one of the more advanced laboratories on the Floor of Technological Sciences, a vast room brimming with cutting-edge technology and scientific apparatus. The space was an epitome of high-tech innovation, with sleek surfaces, blinking consoles, and walls lined with shimmering displays that showcased data streams and research results. The ambient hum of machinery filled the air, punctuated by the occasional beep of a device or the soft rustle of papers.

Angela and Hokma were at the center of the room, deeply engrossed in their work. Angela, with her sharp, calculating gaze, was meticulously examining a vial of shimmering liquid—the Shimmer that Powder had obtained from Clive. She wore a pair of sleek, high-tech gloves, her fingers moving with practiced precision as she carefully poured a few drops onto a glass plate. The liquid glowed with an eerie, vibrant hue, casting a faint light on Angela's focused face.

Hokma stood beside Angela, his demeanor calm and composed. His eyes were fixed on the Shimmer as Angela worked. The two were in quiet collaboration, exchanging occasional glances and nods, their mutual focus evident in the way they worked seamlessly together. Hokma adjusted the settings on a nearby analysis machine, which whirred softly as it began to process the sample.

Chesed, meanwhile, occupied a corner of the room, surrounded by his own team of Librarian Assistants. They were busy reviewing documents and technical schematics, their voices low but animated. The assistants—each a picture of concentration—were sorting through a stack of papers and digital tablets, organizing them with precision. Chesed himself paced back and forth as he reviewed the data on a large holo-screen.

The holo-screen displayed two columns: one listing the resources and knowledge Angela had agreed to share with Piltover at the upcoming meeting, and the other detailing the information that was to remain confidential for the time being. Chesed's brow furrowed in concentration as he scrutinized the list, his eyes flickering between the screen and the stacks of paperwork on his desk.

Angela glanced over at Chesed briefly, noting his focused demeanor. "How's the review going, Chesed?" she asked, her voice cutting through the ambient noise of the lab.

Chesed looked up, his expression thoughtful. "So far, so good, Angela. We're sorting through the materials we've agreed to offer Piltover. There's a lot of valuable data here—advanced engineering techniques, theoretical models, and some of our proprietary algorithms. Just the surface works." Of course, Chesed was never on board the scientific side of the team, but his bureaucratic training from his youth turned out to be exceptionally good at making sure everything was sorted, whether he perfectly understood what they were sorting or not.

Angela nodded, her attention returning to the Shimmer as it underwent its analysis. "Good. We need to ensure that the balance of trust and discretion is maintained. Our collaboration with Piltover should be beneficial to both sides, but we cannot afford to give away too much. It's wise to be cautious as our goal is to foster a productive relationship with Piltover while safeguarding our own interests and ensuring that our knowledge does not fall into the wrong hands."

Chesed, having finished his review, walked over to join them, his assistants following closely behind. "If everything checks out, we should be prepared to discuss the details of our agreement with the council. We need to be clear about what we are offering and what we are withholding to avoid any misunderstandings."

Angela glanced up from her work, her expression resolute. "Precisely. This meeting will be crucial in setting the tone for our future dealings with Piltover. We must be strategic in our approach, ensuring that both sides benefit from this collaboration while maintaining the integrity of our own objectives."

As Angela continued her meticulous work with the Shimmer, Hokma, who had been observing intently, furrowed his brow and finally spoke up. "Angela, do you really think it's worth putting so much effort into analyzing something as dangerous as this Shimmer? We're dealing with quite an unknown factor that could have unpredictable consequences."

Angela glanced up from her task, her expression calm but resolute. "Consider the Hextech orb that brought us to Piltover," she began, her voice steady. "Its magic allowed us to maintain our form and stability outside of the Library, even though we were meant to be bound to it. If we can unlock and harness the full potential of the orb, imagine what we could achieve. We could push the boundaries of the Library's capabilities and evolution."

Hokma's eyes widened slightly at the implication. "So, you're saying that if we can activate this Shimmer in conjunction with the orb…"

Angela nodded, cutting him off. "Yes, exactly. The Shimmer's properties, combined with the orb's energy, could reveal new possibilities for the Library...or it could generate enough energy to send us back from whence we came." It felt downright disturbing that she yearned to go back to anywhere near the City. After everything she experienced there, it'd have been logical if she just downright decided to stay here for the rest of her life, but…something was dragging her back to that horrible City on the Great Lake's beach. It was as if her purpose was to liberate the City from its shackles, at least to the best of her extent, and fight back against the Head.

The Head…there was something that wasn't quite right about that…But what was it…?

Hokma took a moment to consider her words, his skepticism giving way to a tentative curiosity before he dragged her out of her introspection. "You make a compelling argument. But are you sure this will be safe?"

Angela offered a reassuring smile. "I understand your concern, Hokma. But we've taken every precaution. The risk is calculated, and the potential rewards are worth the effort. I'm willing to take the chance."

With that, Angela reached for a small vial containing a delicate piece of Light. She carefully added it to the Shimmer sample she had been preparing, her movements precise and deliberate.

As the Light mixed with the Shimmer, a transformation began. The once-pink liquid shifted in color, turning a deep, radiant gold. The room was soon bathed in a blinding light, its intensity growing until it completely enveloped the space.

Angela groaned as she slowly came to consciousness, her head throbbing with an intensity that made her wish she could bury it beneath a pillow. "Okay, note taken: maybe I should be more careful next time," she mumbled, blinking her eyes open and trying to make sense of her surroundings. "...Where am I? Is this what a hangover feels like?" She spoke to herself, turning her head as she blinked.

The throbbing in her head made it difficult to focus, but as her vision cleared, she realized she was in a completely pitch-black environment. The darkness was so absolute that it seemed to swallow every trace of light. Angela tried to sit up but found herself restrained, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative.

She managed to shift slightly and took stock of her situation. The darkness was so complete that she could barely discern any shapes or forms around her. The only thing breaking the overwhelming void was the presence of another figure across from her.

The figure was bound to a chair, tightly strapped with thick ropes. The person's face was illuminated by the faint, eerie glow of a small, dim light source positioned near them. The light was just enough to cast stark shadows and reveal the figure's shocked expression.

"Angela?!"

"Carmen?!"

Shimmer is HELL of a drug folks. Just ask Vander and Jinx.

Another thing to mention is that the whole scene discussing how to deal with the Chem-Barons was inspired by Mafia III's first sitdown with Clay and his main underlings. Great story, you guys should check it out!

So, Carmen is here! …But is it really the Carmen we know or led to believe is? That is what Angela will discover next time. Hopefully, you all enjoy her appearance at long last.

Until next time folks!