NOVPUBNick went to the secret research base and released Aria.
When she came out and saw the many different machines, she became interested.
However, the most surprising thing was that she didn't see anybody.
"Every current member has seen the true enemy and is isolated in the true center of the research base," Nick said. "I would like you to keep my presence and any information about me secret. Only one other person in here knows about me."
"You don't know what my ability is, but you know that knowing about my ability puts me at a huge disadvantage. I can't allow anyone to know about it. Please understand."
"I know," Aria answered.
Suddenly, the huge gate at the end of the research base opened, and a person came out.
When Aria saw that person, her eyes widened.
Of course, Ghosty's eyes also widened in surprise when he saw Aria.
"Well, what a pleasant surprise," Ghosty said with a smile as he came closer. "To be honest, I was a bit hesitant when Nick said that he got a new leader for this entire thing, but as soon as I saw you, all my reservations vanished."
Aria sighed. "It's nice to see a familiar face. I always believed that you had the good of humanity at heart."
"Well," Ghosty said with an awkward smile as he rubbed the back of his head, "it took a while, but our mutual friend eventually helped me realize this inherent desire that I always had."
Aria smiled. "Same with me."
"How much do you know?" Ghosty asked.
"She knows that there is a true enemy, and that's the extent of it. She doesn't know what we are researching, how many members we are, who the members are, or anything else. Just like everyone else, she has to see the enemy first."
"I understand," Ghosty said before turning to Aria. "I know that you probably doubt Nick's words since they contradict some fundamental truths, but I can assure you that he speaks the truth. Everyone here was like you until they saw the irrefutable proof with their own eyes."
"I don't doubt him," Aria said with a shake of her head. "I trust Nick."
Ghosty smiled. "That's good to hear. I'm sorry, but you have to remain out here until you become a Protector. Advancement is a necessary requirement for seeing the proof."
"I understand," Aria said.
"I am also the only one who is allowed to come in and out of the center. Other people are only allowed to pass through this door when I accompany them. That means you will most likely not meet anybody else until you've become a Protector. I hope that's okay," Ghosty said. ŗ
