In the dimly lit base, Praxis stood over the command console, his fingers deftly manipulating the holographic controls. The image of Prudence, a young woman with long blonde hair and bright eyes, flickered into view. She epitomized the counterculture movement, her attire and demeanor reflecting her deep immersion in Bongwater's circle. "Her name is Prudence," Praxis began, his tone measured and precise. "She is the girlfriend and protege of Coyote Bongwater. Before embracing the hippie lifestyle, she was a co-ed in Berkeley, living in Sausalito. She later moved into the commune at Golden Gate Park in Bay City, where she started dating Bongwater and aiding him in spreading his Revelade product." Crypto, standing nearby with an air of mild disinterest, perked up at the mention of a new target. "Capture her, consider it done, Praxis," he stated confidently. Praxis shot him a warning look. "Not on your own!" he shouted, his patience wearing thin. "I am not having a repeat of the last time you captured that Ms. Rockwell human." Crypto grumbled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I still can't believe you released her back on Earth. That little cupcake was so fine—"
"Focus, Crypto!" Praxis yelled, his frustration palpable. "Geez, Praxis, am I going to need a money jar for you every time you yell 'Focus'? Plus, have you ever considered a breath mint?" Crypto teased, a sly grin spreading across his face. Praxis ignored the jibe, his voice stern. "As I was saying, we can capture Prudence, but I'll be the one asking the questions this time." Crypto rolled his eyes. "So, you'll bore her to death instead," he muttered under his breath. Ignoring Crypto's comment, Praxis brought up a detailed map of Golden Gate Park, highlighting the central gathering spot where Prudence was often seen. "We'll need to blend in with the crowd and observe her movements before making our move. This isn't a smash-and-grab, Crypto. We need to be strategic." Crypto smirked, his mind already racing with thoughts of the mission. "Blending in, huh? I guess it's time for me to dust off my flower crown and tie-dye shirts." Praxis shot him a withering glare. "Just focus on the mission, Crypto. We need to ensure we don't attract any unnecessary attention. The last thing we need is a repeat of the Ms. Rockwell incident."
"Don't worry, Praxis. I'll be as subtle as a Yautja can be. Let's get moving and find our little informant." With their plan set, Crypto and Praxis activated their holographic disguises. The advanced Yautja technology transformed their appearances into that of ordinary humans. The disguises were more than just visual; they included sound modulation to mimic human voices and even adjusted their thermal signatures to match those of humans, rendering them virtually undetectable. Crypto's disguise transformed him into a laid-back hippie. He wore a tie-dye shirt, bell-bottom jeans, and a flower crown. His muscular build was masked by the hologram, giving him a leaner, more human-like appearance. His fierce yellow eyes were concealed behind a pair of round, tinted sunglasses, adding to his relaxed, free-spirited look.
Praxis, though less enthusiastic about the disguise, wore a simple tunic and headband. His transformation into a scholarly figure exuded an air of calm authority. His deep, patchy grey skin and bright yellow eyes were hidden beneath the hologram, replaced by a more human-like complexion and expressive brown eyes. The sophisticated armor he wore became a plain, casual outfit suitable for blending in with the park's diverse crowd. They made their way to Golden Gate Park, a vibrant hub of activity. Hippies lounged on blankets, played guitars, and danced to the rhythm of tambourines. The air was thick with the scent of incense and flowers, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
As they approached the central gathering spot, Crypto and Praxis blended in with the crowd, their holographic disguises working flawlessly. They scanned the area, their keen eyes searching for any sign of Prudence. It wasn't long before they spotted her, sitting cross-legged on a blanket surrounded by a group of young followers. She was speaking passionately, her voice carrying a tone of conviction that resonated with those around her. "Revelade is the key to our liberation," she declared, her eyes shining with fervor. "It opens our minds and frees us from the constraints of society. Together, we can create a world of peace and love." Crypto and Praxis watched from a distance, taking note of her interactions and the way, she commanded the attention of those around her. Praxis leaned in closer to Crypto, his voice low. "We need to approach her carefully. Wait for an opportunity when she's away from the crowd."
Crypto nodded, his focus intensifying. "Got it. I'll keep an eye on her. You just let me know when it's time to move." As the evening progressed, the crowd began to thin, and Prudence finally stood up, making her way towards a secluded area of the park. Crypto and Praxis followed discreetly, ensuring they remained out of sight. They watched her from the shadows, their minds working in unison to devise the best approach. Praxis knew that capturing Prudence was a delicate operation, one that required both subtlety and precision. The stakes were high, and they couldn't afford any mistakes. For now, they would observe and plan, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. The capture of Prudence was crucial to uncovering the truth behind Bong-Water's operations and the KGB's insidious plans. Crypto and Praxis were determined to succeed, knowing that the future of Bay City—and possibly the entire world—depended on their actions.
Suddenly, Prudence stood on a makeshift platform in Golden Gate Park, her voice ringing out with fervor. "Bongwater's plan is revolutionary! We will tip Revelade into the drinking water supply, and it will usher in a new age for America!" she declared, her eyes shining with zeal. "His crew will lead us into an era of enlightenment and freedom! Together, we'll overthrow the oppressive systems that keep us down!" The crowd cheered, their excitement palpable. Prudence continued, her voice taking on a sharper edge. "And let me tell you something about my father! He's nothing but a tool of the establishment, a puppet of the man! He never understood what it means to be truly free!" Crypto and Praxis watched from a distance, their holographic disguises blending seamlessly with the crowd. Praxis leaned in closer to Crypto, his voice a low whisper. "We need to draw her away from the crowd. We can't risk an open confrontation."
Crypto nodded, his focus intensifying. "Got it. I'll keep an eye on her. You just let me know when it's time to move." Prudence continued her speech, the fervor in her voice captivating the audience. As the sun began to set, the colors of the evening sky painted the park in hues of orange and purple. The crowd around Prudence gradually began to disperse, their attention shifting to the various activities happening in the park. Crypto and Praxis patiently waited, blending in with the remaining park-goers. The two Yautja, despite their impatience, knew that the cover of night would provide the perfect opportunity for their mission. As darkness enveloped the park, the atmosphere became quieter and more subdued. The sounds of laughter and music gave way to the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant hum of city life.
The moon rose high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the park. The lampposts flickered to life, creating pools of light amidst the shadows. Crypto and Praxis moved stealthily, their keen eyes locked onto Prudence as she finally stepped down from the platform and began to walk toward a more secluded area of the park. They followed her discreetly, ensuring they remained out of sight. They watched her from the shadows, their minds working in unison to devise the best approach. Praxis knew that capturing Prudence was a delicate operation, one that required both subtlety and precision. They waited until she walked near a lamppost draped with cords and lights, which created a perfect ambush spot. With a quick nod from Praxis, Crypto moved swiftly, his Yautja agility allowing him to close the distance in an instant. He intercepted Prudence just as she was about to round a corner, using one of the cords to hoist her upside down, her screams muffled by the suddenness of the action.
"We need to talk!" Praxis said in a stern voice, still masked by the holographic disguise. Prudence, hanging upside down, initially believed it to be a prank. "If this is some kind of prank—" she started, but her words caught in her throat as she took in the alien forms before her. "Oh My God, aliens!" Crypto and Praxis had dropped their holographic disguises, revealing their true Yautja forms. "Na ah, Miss Sunshine. We'll have none of that!" Crypto teased, placing his hand over her mouth to silence her screams. "You're coming with us," growled Praxis, his tone leaving no room for argument. He darted her with a needle, the sedative taking effect almost immediately. Prudence's struggles ceased as she slipped into unconsciousness. With Prudence securely in their grasp, Crypto and Praxis moved swiftly, carrying her back to their base.
Prudence slowly regained consciousness, her vision blurry as she tried to make sense of her surroundings. The cold, metallic walls of Praxis's base came into focus, illuminated by the faint glow of advanced Yautja technology. As her eyes adjusted to the dim light, she caught sight of Praxis standing before her, his imposing figure unmistakable. "What the—" Prudence began, her voice rising in anger. "You giant, overgrown lizard! You have no idea who you're messing with! Let me go right now, you freakish, ugly monster!"
Praxis attempted to interject, his voice measured and calm. "Prudence, we need to talk about Bongwater's—" But Prudence was relentless, her tirade of insults cutting him off at every turn. "Talk? Talk about what? How you're planning to dissect me, you alien psychopath? You're nothing but a glorified bug with delusions of grandeur! And what's with that face? Did you lose a fight with a meat grinder?" Praxis tried to regain control of the conversation; his frustration evident. "Listen, we don't have time for this. We need to know about Bongwater's plans and the KGB's involvement."
Prudence's eyes blazed with defiance. "Why would I ever tell you anything? Bongwater is going to change the world, and you two are just obstacles in his path! You're nothing but space invaders with a superiority complex!" Crypto, standing nearby with a smug expression, couldn't help but chuckle at the scene unfolding before him. He crossed his arms and leaned against the wall, thoroughly enjoying the spectacle. "Hey, Praxis," he called out, a teasing glint in his eyes, "you were the one that said, 'I'll do all the talking,' and I'm here to be the muscles. Looks like you're doing a bang-up job so far." Praxis shot Crypto a withering glare, his patience wearing thin. "Crypto, this isn't the time for—"
Prudence seized the opportunity to continue her verbal assault. "Oh, and now you've got a sidekick? What, are you two planning to start an intergalactic comedy act? Because let me tell you, you're not funny! You're just a couple of pathetic wannabe conquerors!" Crypto's amusement only grew, and he couldn't resist adding to the chaos. "She's got a point, Praxis. Maybe we should rethink our career choices." Praxis's frustration reached its peak, and his yellow eyes blazed with anger. "How dare you, you Earth rat!" he roared, his voice echoing through the chamber. "You will show respect!" Prudence, instead of cowering or screaming, chose rage. Her eyes narrowed with fury as she spat, "Respect? Why would I ever respect you? Bongwater is going to change the world, and you two are just in the way!"
Realizing that reasoning with her was futile, Praxis signaled to Crypto, who stepped forward, his imposing figure looming over her. "Alright, I've had enough of this," he growled, extending his wristblades. The sharp blades shot out inches from her face, silencing her mid-sentence. "Now that I have your attention, Sunshine! You'll explain the location of Bongwater's friend, or I might have to give you a nose job Yautja style. Are we clear on that?" Crypto's tone left no room for negotiation. Prudence's eyes widened in fear, the sight of the deadly blades inches from her face finally breaking through her defiance. She nodded slightly, the fire in her eyes dimming as the reality of her situation set in. "Good," Crypto said, a satisfied smirk on his face as he retracted the wristblades. Prudence, her voice trembling, finally spoke. "Alright, alright, I'll tell you. Just please don't hurt me."
"Start talking," Praxis demanded, his tone cold and commanding. "Bongwater's friend... his name is Yuri. He's a KGB agent. He's been helping Bongwater with the Revelade distribution and providing security. They have a safehouse... it's in the warehouse district, near the docks," Prudence revealed, her voice shaking with fear. "Anything else?" Crypto pressed, his eyes locked onto hers. Prudence hesitated for a moment before continuing. "There's a shipment coming in tomorrow night. It's supposed to be a large supply of Revelade. Bongwater plans to distribute it to key areas in the city. That's all I know, I swear."
Praxis and Crypto exchanged a glance, their expressions grim but determined. "Good," Praxis said, his voice steady. "You've done the right thing, Prudence. We won't hurt you, but you need to stay here until this is over." Prudence's eyes filled with desperation. "Please, just don't kill me. I didn't know things would go this far." Crypto placed his hand over her mouth to ensure she wouldn't scream. "You're staying right here," growled Praxis, his tone leaving no room for argument. He swiftly darted her with a needle again, the sedative taking effect almost immediately. Prudence's struggles ceased as she slipped back into unconsciousness.
With Prudence now securely out cold and restrained in the interrogation room, a moment of calm settled over the base. Crypto stood back, a satisfied expression playing across his mandibles as he observed their captive. "So, what did we learn today, Praxis?" Crypto teased, his voice dripping with mock amusement. Praxis, the elder Yautja, stood with his muscular frame tense from the earlier confrontation. His yellow eyes glowed with barely contained frustration as he glared back at Prudence. "I have never been so insulted in all my life," he grumbled. Crypto's mandibles twitched with amusement, clearly enjoying the elder Yautja's irritation. "Never been so insulted? Now I'm insulted," he responded with a smirk.
Praxis shot Crypto a withering glare. "Oh, shut up, Crypto." Crypto chuckled, leaning casually against the wall. "Come on, old man, you have to admit, that was entertaining." Praxis sighed, shaking his head. "Entertaining or not, we have the information we need. It's time to move forward and deal with Bongwater and the KGB." Crypto nodded, his expression shifting to one of determination. "Agreed. Let's finish this."
