Professor Time

Chapter 2

The time jump succeeded, transporting the group to a month before the reported thermonuclear devastation. However, the city they arrived in appeared just as damaged and deserted.

"Something isn't right," said Bowed grimly. "This timeline must still be affected by whatever event started the war."

"We must search for clues immediately," replied the Professor. "Stay together and monitor your surroundings. This era may not be safe."

Cautiously, they explored the rubble-strewn streets. Ghostly silence hung over the apocalyptic scene. Suddenly, Jasmine cried out. "Look, movement!"

In the distance, a figure limped along dragging an injured leg. Musa called out, "We're here to help!"

The figure turned - it was an injured soldier. "You must...leave at once. This country declared war on all outsiders. You'll be shot on sight!"

Before they could question the man further, the crack of gunfire rang out. He collapsed, slain by an unseen marksman. The friends bolted in terror.

"We're trapped in a timeline spiraling towards annihilation. We must find the source of this madness and alter events, or all may be lost!" said the Professor gravely.

Their deadliest mission had begun. But could even time travelers change the course of war?

The group fled blindly through the ravaged streets, pursued by the occasional distant gunshot. They dared not stop to catch their breath.

Finally spotting an old warehouse ahead, Bowed whispered "In here - we can hide and plan our next move!"

Once safely inside, they collapsed panting. Jag furiously kicked some rubble. "Professor, what the hell happened to send this whole world over the edge?"

The old man shook his head grimly. "I don't know, but we must find answers fast before it's too late to alter the timeline."

Beside a cracked window, Jasmine gasped. "Guys, look - it's the leader making a speech!". Through binoculars they watched with horror.

The despot bellowed threats against enemies while troops chanted fervently. A scientist stood ominously beside him holding some strange vial.

"That's it - the source of madness!" exclaimed the Professor. "We need to sabotage their experiments before things escalate further. But how...?"

Bowed smiled suddenly. "I have an idea. You taught us that changing one small event can shift the entire course of history..."

Their riskiest plan yet was made. That night, while the base slept, the heist would take place to derail the impending war. But dangers lurked within the compound's walls...

Night had fallen, cloaking the warehouse compound in shadow. This was the friends' moment to act.

"Remember, stealth is key," Bowed whispered. "Get in, swap the vials, get out without being seen."

Moving with care, they breached the perimeter fence. Inside, the Professor guided them towards the laboratory while Musa kept watch.

Jag and Jasmine swiftly located the vials. But as Jasmine replaced one, it slipped from her grasp, shattering on the floor!

"Run!" shouted Bowed as alarms blared. Guards poured in with guns drawn. The friends bolted for the exit amid shouts.

Gunfire crackled through the night. Musa cried out, hit in the leg. Bowed scooped her up, urging the others on.

Finally reaching the time machine, Jag started the engines. But the scientist now blocked their escape with hostages!

"Surrender or they die!" he screamed. The Professor stepped forward calmly. "Please, end this conflict before it's too late..."