The world watched in awe as the latest anomalies appeared in downtown Chicago. Skyscrapers shuddered under strange forces, cars lifted without warning, and unexplainable flashes of light tore across the sky. Panic spread, but so did hope.
On every screen, the familiar logo of A.E.G.I.S. appeared. Their spokesperson, Director Marcus Hayes , addressed the world:
"We have contained the anomaly. No civilians were harmed. Humanity is safe under our guidance."
Applause, live reactions, trending hashtags. A.E.G.I.S. saves the day, yet again.
Behind the headlines, chaos brewed. Shadowy figures struck at A.E.G.I.S. facilities, cutting communications, setting fires, and stealing sensitive data. News outlets labeled them N.U.L.L., the National United Liberation and Legion, a dangerous terrorist group.
"They claim to fight for humanity," a reporter warned, "but their actions risk lives and destabilize the fragile safety A.E.G.I.S. provides."
Images flashed: masked operatives in black tactical gear, explosions, chaos in laboratory corridors, alarms blaring. Social media erupted in fear and condemnation. N.U.L.L. was painted as ruthless, violent, and untrustworthy.
The city lights flickered as the chaos settled.
Meanwhile, in the shadows, a figure watched from an abandoned rooftop, hood drawn low.
???: "Let's see how long humanity will believe your act, Hayes."