𝑾𝑰𝑪𝑲𝑬𝑫 𝑫𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑴𝑺 ━━ 𝚂𝚝𝚎𝚟𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚐𝚎𝚛𝚜

8 Wicked Memories

The chamber was a grand yet intimidating space, filled with ornate decorations and ancient artifacts. Medusa sat regally on her throne, her piercing gaze fixed on Aeron, who stood at attention, his posture rigid and respectful. Meera, Medusa's most trusted advisor and her daughter, was by her side, her expression serious as she briefed Aeron on his new mission.

Smiling with satisfaction, Medusa broke the silence. "Aeron, you've proven your loyalty and skill countless times. Now, I have a mission that requires your particular talents."

Aeron's heart pounded in his chest, but he kept his face composed. Medusa's assignments were never simple, and the gravity of her tone suggested this was no exception.

Queen Medusa signaled Meera to start the briefing. "Years ago, Alveus made a bargain with us. In exchange for his surrender, we spared his daughter and her mother. The daughter, just like her father, is a powerful hybrid. She's in high school, now, in the United States."

Medusa's smile widened, a chilling blend of delight and calculation.

"Alveus was one of our first successful hybrids between the Kree and Inhumans after the fall of Attilan City. His mission was to create chaos within Earth's government systems, sparking the conflict between Germany and the United States." Medusa interjected. "But he fell in love with a mortal woman and had a daughter, Edda Zerena Amsel Vikander."

Medusa paused, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of pride and cunning. "He abandoned his position as part of the Brotherhood of Three and sent word to me that he would no longer partake in the restoration of order on Earth. Alveus had always been temperamental and cunning. He instigated both World War I, caused by the superiority complex of major empires seeking to dominate the world, and World War II, caused by the inferiority complex of major empires seeking to avoid war until it was too late. Both were influenced by Alveus."

Aeron nodded, taking in Medusa's words. The history of Alveus was well-known among the Inhumans, but hearing Medusa's spin on it added a layer of complexity.

"Alveus deprived the girl of her rightful home. She belongs with her people. Out there, she risks encountering those who would only exploit her power. We must bring her back where she belongs."

Aeron nodded, understanding the weight of the task. He had heard whispers of Edda's existence but had never imagined he would be the one tasked with bringing her into the fold.

"You will become her friend, her confidant. Gain her trust." Meera continues to brief Aeron. "Your new identity is Arnold Roth, age fifteen, an Irish exchange student living with his uncle. Blend in, learn her habits, her weaknesses. When the time is right, you will guide her back to us."

Aeron nodded firmly. "I understand, Your Majesty. I won't fail you."

Medusa's gaze softened slightly, a rare display of approval. "I know you won't, Aeron. Remember, this mission is of utmost importance. Edda's power must be harnessed for the good of Adalynne City."

THE BEEKEEPER BAR was a sanctuary in the chaos of Madripoor, a place where whispers were currency and secrets were bartered like gold. It was frequented by informants and those who knew the ins and outs of the city's underworld, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to stay one step ahead.

Aeron approached the entrance, his heart pounding with a mix of determination and anxiety. He knew that within these walls, he could find the answers he needed to keep Edda and himself safe. The familiar hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses greeted him as he stepped inside, a reminder of the delicate balance of power that kept Madripoor's streets both dangerous and oddly secure.