《Seeds of Transformation: The Age of Chaos》


 1. Time Leap

    On January 7, 2025, in a dark, almost isolated room, Qusay, with his thick, disheveled black hair, lay down wearing summer clothes despite the winter of life having invaded existence. He held his phone as if searching for something intangible, scrolling through short clips, his eyes empty like windows into a vast void. It seemed as though he was lost in a journey without a map, as if life for him was nothing but a heavy burden.


    Qusay, debating with himself: "Is living merely a sufficient reason for life? Can¡¯t we just live for the sake of living? Yes, that might be possible... but what the hell is this life? Why does everything seem gray, as if the world is trapped in a fog of despair? Why does my life feel like it¡¯s fading without purpose? Why can¡¯t I be the hero of my own story? Isn¡¯t every person the hero of their own tale? Except me. I can only see it as an incomplete story, where I remain that incompetent being, lacking ability, lacking meaning. Even if I can accomplish something, the fear that someone else can do it better haunts me. I¡¯m always comparing myself to others. But... do these comparisons define my worth? Is the pursuit of perfection what should distinguish us?"


    Then, in a moment of deep silence, he said to himself: "Damn you, Qusay. Is it wise to remain stuck in this mental chaos? Perhaps you should accept that you¡¯re blessed in ways you don¡¯t appreciate, and that life itself, with all its small and conflicting details, is what you should celebrate."


    <hr>


    After this internal debate, he jumped up, feeling a mix of excitement and tension. He turned on the lights, filling the room with some activity, then sat firmly at his desk. He turned on his computer and opened the company¡¯s website, where he worked as a data analyst. He began reviewing reports and numbers, extracting patterns and trends, and organizing them into tables and reports the company could rely on.


    His work wasn¡¯t exhausting, usually taking about four hours a day, though sometimes it extended depending on task pressure, but it rarely exceeded that. The job was perfect for him, comfortable and suited to his lifestyle. His monthly income was around 5,000 dirhams, a decent amount for him, as his needs were simple and didn¡¯t extend beyond his home.


    Most of his expenses went to food, internet subscriptions, and in-game purchases for apps and games that occupied a large part of his time and entertainment. His life was monotonous but free from financial worries, which was enough for him to live in a way that suited him.


    <hr>


    At 7:00 PM, Qusay had finished his work duties. He then prepared a light meal, frying eggs and making Moroccan tea, known as "Atay." After that, he brought his food to the table and began eating. While eating with his right hand, his left hand held his phone, scrolling through short videos.


    When he finished his meal, he returned to his computer and logged into the game "Legend Online," wasting an hour, two, three, four¡­ Time flew like a sword until midnight struck. Qusay wouldn¡¯t have noticed if it weren¡¯t for a strange flicker between his hands as he played. At first, the light was faint and flickering, like a candle flame trying to withstand a gentle breeze, but it quickly grew stronger and brighter until it flooded the room with sudden light.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Qusay felt a slight warmth emanating from his palm, so he stopped playing and stared at his hand in astonishment. Suddenly, from between his unconsciously spread fingers, a tiny seed or grain began to form, as if born from nothingness. It took shape slowly, as if the air itself was weaving its delicate threads.


    This seed had intricate and strange details. Despite its small size, its right half resembled an hourglass, its grains falling in a shining golden color, while its left half looked like an eye without a pupil, pulsating with a faint heartbeat-like rhythm. But the most bizarre thing was its immense weight, as if it could pierce his palm from its heaviness, despite being no larger than a lentil.


    Qusay didn¡¯t know what to do, so he kept staring at it, captivated by its beauty and mystery. A mix of awe and a strange excitement filled him, as if this seed held a great secret waiting for him.


    <hr>


    It was only natural for Qusay to be shocked and make an involuntary movement upon the seed¡¯s appearance, but his reaction was slow, as if he had been waiting for this opportunity since eternity. Without much thought, Qusay looked at the seed, his eyes gleaming with a strange brilliance. In one swift motion, he pushed the seed toward his neck and swallowed it without hesitation. He didn¡¯t even try to taste it, as if he knew this was his path to salvation, the right move, the treasure that would change his life.


    His heart pounded fiercely, as if something monumental was about to happen. He felt a surge of tension coursing through his body, but he didn¡¯t back down. This wasn¡¯t just about a mysterious seed; it was about a deep desire to break free from a reality he hadn¡¯t chosen. When he pushed the seed toward his neck, he had made his decision, bravely challenging the unknown.


    <hr>


    Qusay stood up from his chair, waiting for the surprise. Minutes passed, his heart racing with excitement, fear, and awe. Questions swirled in his mind: "Could this seed be harmful? Wait, am I dreaming? How can a seed form out of nowhere in my hand? What the hell is happening?"


    As Qusay lost himself in thought, a strange pain began spreading from his stomach to his internal organs: his heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and then his brain. This pain was the worst Qusay had ever experienced. His vital organs were literally being destroyed. Blood began to seep from his teeth and wounds all over his body, turning him into a pool of blood. Qusay couldn¡¯t even think about what was happening.


    Then, after this agony, even greater pain emerged as the destroyed organs began to regenerate. The organs reformed and merged, but the most excruciating pain Qusay faced was in his brain; his head hurt indescribably, as if it was about to explode. The process of rebuilding wasn¡¯t easy at all¡ªit was the most intense suffering he had ever endured. As soon as this torment ended, his eyes rolled back, and he collapsed unconscious on the floor.


    <hr>


    Qusay woke up from his slumber, filled with energy and vitality.


    Qusay: "What is this? I feel like I¡¯ve been reborn!! Such strange energy, but I feel like something¡¯s missing!"


    "Grrr¡­" His stomach growled as if protesting its emptiness.


    Qusay: "Ahhh, I¡¯m just hungry. I feel like I haven¡¯t eaten in ages."


    And so, Qusay rushed to the kitchen. As soon as he opened the fridge, a foul smell spread throughout the room.


    Qusay: "What¡¯s this? All the vegetables have rotted, and even the eggs have gone bad! Wait... how long have I been asleep??"


    He ran back to his room to check his phone.


    Qusay: "Even the phone¡¯s battery is dead!! I¡¯ll charge it and turn on the computer. I¡¯m sure at least a month has passed."


    He sat at his desk and started the computer. Within seconds, the startup screen appeared, and his pupils darted to the clock and date. It was 3:55 PM on August 10, 2025.

 2. Global race to attract talent

    Qusay''s pupils dilated in shock, and he gasped as he spoke:


    Qusay: "Whaaat!!! Eight months¡­? This is unbelievable! How on earth did I survive all this time? And what''s the deal with that seed I swallowed? Am I dreaming? No, I''m a trillion percent sure this is real. So, what''s going on?"


    Qusay entered his computer password and headed straight to social media. The first post that caught his eye was:


    "Breaking News: Speed ability user, Luqman Labendor, from Fez, has been recruited by the United States after showcasing his rare superhuman ability (Posted 2 weeks ago, 12,581 likes)."


    Another post read:


    "Mental manipulator, Fatima Al-Karami, with her uncommon ability, has caught the attention of Europeans, who are negotiating with our government to transfer her to them (Posted 9 days ago, 4,188 likes)."


    Yet another post:


    "A clash broke out between a group of fire-wielding bandits and the metal manipulator, Ismail, at the entrance of Taza city. It ended with the criminals being neutralized and Ismail likely being recruited into the military (Posted 2 days ago, 690 likes)."


    And one more:


    "The Eastern and Western factions are in a race to attract talents. Is a third world war looming on the horizon? For more details, visit our official website, Tafaha.com (Posted 2 months ago, 654,688 likes)."


    There were countless other posts that gave Qusay a basic understanding of what had happened during his coma. He turned to a search engine and typed, "The emergence of superpowers." Several articles popped up, and he chose one from a well-known, credible Arab news channel known for its detailed and accurate reports. The article read:


    "22.03.2025, 11:15 AM Mecca Time


    The resigned Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Bieber, and his Foreign Minister, Melanie Jolavi, confirmed that while the superpowers that have emerged among humans could bring destruction to humanity, they are still limited, especially when compared to the advanced weapons humanity has developed. Justin emphasized the vast difference between common and uncommon abilities. According to him, one person with an uncommon ability could defeat up to twenty people with common abilities in a solo squad battle (one versus a group or team). This gap becomes even more staggering when compared to rare abilities. Even our advanced weapons might struggle to contain those with rare abilities. The World Health Organization has released statistics showing that approximately 90.24% of humans possess common superhuman abilities, 9.15% possess uncommon abilities, and 0.61% possess rare abilities¡ªabout fifty million people, which is no small number. There is a race among major powers to attract talents, with all eyes on those with rare abilities. China has the largest number of rare ability users, exceeding fifteen million. In the Arab world, unlike most Arab countries, Saudi Arabia has invested in attracting talents, forming an elite army called the ''Desert Elite Force.'' Following Saudi Arabia''s lead, Qatar and the UAE have adopted similar approaches to adapt to the current societal developments. However, the mystery that continues to baffle scientists and analysts is the origin of these powers. Several theories have emerged to explain this strange phenomenon, which we have covered in a separate article. Legally, this phenomenon has spurred legislative efforts to regulate these powers and protect societal security."


    After finishing the article, Qusay moved the mouse cursor back to the search bar and typed, "How to discover my superpower?" Several articles appeared:


    "Discover your superpower at home with these simple recipes,"


    "Find out your superpower for free¡ªvisit our website,"


    "Your superpower is your key to survival¡ªcome to our branch in Paris and change your life for the better,"


    and many more. What they all had in common was that they were scams.


    Then he saw a post from the General Directorate of the Kingdom of Morocco:


    "Discover your superpower at one of our detection centers spread across the Kingdom. All you need to do is pay the examination fee and present your national ID."


    Upon reading this, a smile returned to Qusay''s face, and excitement filled his heart. With agility, he grabbed a plastic bag, collected all the rotten vegetables, fruits, and spoiled eggs, took his national ID and some money, and headed outside.


    First, he disposed of the trash in the dump, then made his way to the detection center. Qusay lived in a rural area near the city of Chefchaouen, and the nearest center, according to the internet, was about a two-hour walk away. As he walked along a narrow dirt path, he ran into his neighbor, Raouf, who lived in the same village but far enough that the distance between houses created a sense of isolation¡ªsomething Qusay appreciated.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    Raouf, surprised: "Whaaat!!! Is that Qusay?? I thought you were in Tangier! When did you get back?"


    Qusay, hesitantly: "Just yesterday, hahaha! How are you, neighbor? How are your brothers and kids? And how''s Grandma Aisha?"


    Raouf, sadly: "Grandma Aisha passed away. I thought you knew! As usual, you''re the last to know about anything, huh?" (His tone shifted from sadness to happiness as he continued.) "As for my son Luqman and my nephew Yamen, they''ve been recruited into the Eagles Squad. And my brother, Yamen''s father, went to France on a special request thanks to his uncommon ability."


    Qusay: "The news is overwhelming. I can''t decide whether to mourn Grandma''s death or celebrate your brother and his son''s achievements. But praise God, everything happens for a reason."


    Raouf: "That''s the right attitude, brother. My wife and I are alone now, especially after all my other siblings moved to the city for work and education."


    Qusay, internally: (Damn, I completely forgot about work. I must have been fired from the company. Damn, I''ve lost my only source of income.) Then he said aloud: "You still have your wife, and that''s the most important thing. May God keep love and harmony between you."


    Raouf: "Amen, brother. I''ll be on my way now. If you''re free tonight, we can go to the caf¨¦ and play Barchee (a dice game with unique rules, different from those in the Middle East and Asia). What do you say?"


    Qusay: "How about we postpone it to another day? I just got back from Tangier and have a lot of things to take care of."


    Raouf: "Sure, brother. See you soon, God willing."


    Qusay: "God willing." (I forgot to ask him about the Eagles Squad and what his, his son''s, and his brother''s abilities are. But it''s better I didn''t ask¡ªit''s not appropriate to pry into others'' affairs.)


    After about half an hour of walking, Qusay finally reached the main road, which was quite a distance from the village. He followed the road until he reached the Tuesday market, known as Tengoub, where several government institutions were located, including the detection center. Tengoub was the central hub for the municipality that included their village (douar). Their village, Douar Al-Jeer, was part of this municipality.


    When Qusay reached the road, it was best to wait for a taxi or a car heading to Tengoub. In these rural areas, people often gave each other rides for free, even if they didn''t know each other. The residents of these villages shared similar traits and attire, making it easy to identify each other. Sometimes, people could even guess your father''s name just by looking at you.


    After about six minutes, a taxi arrived, and Qusay quickly made his way to Tengoub. He headed straight to the detection center, which was an ordinary building resembling a preschool, with a large sign displaying the name of the region and other details. The center''s name was prominently displayed: "Tengoub Center for Superpower Detection."


    The building seemed deserted, with no one entering or exiting. However, the door was open. Qusay loudly greeted whoever was inside, and a voice responded, allowing him to enter.


    Qusay: "Hello, I''m Qusay. I''m here to detect my superpower."


    Employee: "I''m Abdelmounim. Nice to meet you, Qusay. Please present your national ID for verification, fill out this form, and pay 200 dirhams."


    Qusay followed the instructions and completed the formalities quickly and efficiently.


    Abdelmounim: "Even though it''s strange that you haven''t detected your ability until now, and I''m curious about the reason, it''s not our place to pry into citizens'' affairs. However, if you misuse your ability without authorization, the consequences will be severe, and you''ll face legal penalties. Please note that the new penalties are stricter than ever."


    Qusay: "I''ve heard about that, brother. It''s just that some household chores and work kept me busy, and I didn''t want to crowd the center with everyone else."


    Abdelmounim: "Most superpowers fall into two categories: either projection, where the person projects internal energy to affect the external environment¡ªexamples include common abilities like fire, ice, and water¡ªor absorption, where the person draws external energy to affect their own body, such as invisibility or flight. However, most absorption abilities are uncommon. In our facility, and most facilities in the Kingdom, we rely on two main devices for these two types. Please enter the projection device, and while inside, try to release your internal energy into the external environment."


    Qusay: "Understood."


    With steady steps filled with determination and anticipation, Qusay stood next to a large device with enough space inside for a person to stand. At the front of the device was a vertical door that lowered from the top to seal the entrance. Qusay entered, and Abdelmounim pressed a series of buttons in a specific sequence. The door closed with a hiss.


    "Beep... Beep... Beep... Please attempt to discover the energy within you and release it into the environment."

 3. A globe

    Inside the device, Qusay closed his eyes and began trying to imagine something within himself, attempting to draw it out. One minute passed... two... three... four. Ten minutes went by with no success. The door opened, and the device emitted a sound indicating that Qusay''s ability was incompatible with the projection device. With that, he moved to the absorption device, which was identical in design to the projection device, except for the fact that its interior was filled with a mysterious white mist.


    "Beep... Beep... Beep... Please attempt to sense your surroundings and draw external energy into your body."


    Unlike before, as soon as Qusay entered the device, his body eagerly began absorbing the mysterious misty energy. The moment the door closed, every pore in his body started drawing in the energy, and in the blink of an eye, all the mist disappeared. The absorption device now looked exactly like the projection device.


    "Beep... Beep... Beep... A superior energy absorption ability detected! Beep... Unable to determine the nature of the ability! Beep... No superhuman physical enhancements detected in the subject! Beep... Resorting to AI algorithms... Beep... Detection failed."


    Qusay stepped out of the device, his face a mix of confusion and wonder, yet he felt strangely calm. He muttered to himself, "I''m sure I have a superpower. My body absorbed that strange energy, yet the device couldn''t identify my ability. This is bizarre."


    Abdelmounim greeted him with much more warmth than before, saying, "Brother, don''t despair. There are many others like you who don''t have abilities, so you''re not alone. In fact, you might be lucky. It''s better to stay away from these superpowers and the conflicts and battles they bring, which could lead to destruction."


    Qusay: "It''s alright, brother. I''m just a little disappointed. It''s not easy¡ªI had high hopes, but it''s all for the best, God willing."


    Abdelmounim: "Come on, brother, don''t look so glum. Even those with common superpowers rarely use them. They live almost like ordinary people, going about their lives as if they had no powers at all. So, put on a smile and live your life as you did before the test."


    Qusay: "That''s what I''ll do, God willing. Take care, brother, and may God protect you."


    With that, Qusay concluded his words and headed back home. But one question kept swirling in his mind: "How will I figure out my unique ability?" He was certain he had a special absorption ability¡ªotherwise, his body wouldn''t have reacted to the external energy.


    Meanwhile, as Abdelmounim prepared to reset both devices¡ªthe projection and absorption ones¡ªhe noticed something strange about the absorption device. He paused, staring at the screen, then muttered to himself anxiously, "What?! Why is the energy in the absorption device completely depleted? This is impossible! Is it a system glitch? Or is there a bigger issue I''m not seeing?"


    He tried to calm himself and began inspecting the device carefully, running his fingers expertly over the buttons, checking the indicators, and navigating through the system settings. Despite his efforts, he couldn''t find a clear explanation for what had happened. He gathered his thoughts and reassured himself, "Whatever the reason, the energy should return to normal in a few hours... I just need to wait and check periodically."


    But deep down, he couldn''t shake the feeling that something was seriously wrong.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Qusay bought his household supplies from the local market, took a taxi, and returned home. As soon as he opened the door, he headed straight to the kitchen with enthusiasm, gathering the tools he needed to cook. Determined to prepare a lavish feast, he decided to make a chicken tagine, his way.


    He took out fresh vegetables and washed them carefully, one by one. He peeled the carrots and sliced them thinly, cut the potatoes into even cubes, and prepared slices of zucchini, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper to add a splash of color to the tagine. Next, he grabbed some onions and sliced them thinly, while mincing garlic to release its distinctive flavor.


    He boiled eggs to use as a garnish for the tagine later. Then, he prepared the chicken, cleaning it thoroughly and marinating it with a blend of traditional Moroccan spices: saffron, turmeric, ginger, cumin, salt, and a splash of lemon juice.


    In the clay tagine pot, he poured a bit of olive oil, added the sliced onions and minced garlic, and let them saut¨¦ until they released a fragrant aroma. He placed the chicken pieces on top of the onions and arranged the vegetables neatly around the chicken. He added some green olives, cilantro, and parsley for extra flavor.


    Finally, he poured a bit of hot water over the ingredients to allow them to steam, then covered the tagine and let it simmer on low heat. While the tagine cooked, he peeled the boiled eggs, ready to garnish the dish when it was done.


    Qusay sat at the kitchen table, inhaling the delicious aroma of the tagine, eagerly waiting for it to be ready. When he opened the tagine after some time, he was greeted by the sight of perfectly cooked vegetables and chicken, infused with rich spices. He garnished the dish with the boiled eggs and lemon slices and served himself a hearty homemade feast.


    Qusay sat in front of the tagine he had prepared with such enthusiasm. He lifted the lid slowly, letting the steam rise, carrying the scent of saffron and spices. He tore off a piece of bread, dipped it into the rich sauce shimmering in the center of the tagine, and began eating quietly, savoring every bite.


    He carefully picked up pieces of chicken, adding a bit of pickled lemon juice to them, tasting them as if testing the success of his recipe. He didn''t forget to add olives to enhance the flavor. Between bites, he sipped his tea, a smile of satisfaction on his face as if saying, "This tagine is a success!"


    As soon as Qusay finished his meal, he took a deep breath as if announcing the end of his mission, then headed to the kitchen to wash the dishes. While standing at the sink, he began to feel drowsiness creeping over him, his eyes growing heavy as if he hadn''t slept in days.


    After finishing the dishes, he took slow, heavy steps toward the bed, each step feeling more difficult than the last. The moment he reached it, he collapsed onto it, surrendering to sleep instantly, as if his body had been waiting for that moment with bated breath.


    As soon as Qusay fell onto the bed and drifted into sleep, he found himself in a strange, dark world unlike anything he had ever known. He had no physical body¡ªjust a consciousness floating freely in a vast void. Suddenly, a three-dimensional model of the Earth appeared before him, rotating slowly in the air.


    Qusay looked at the model with confusion and curiosity, unable to understand what was happening. Driven by curiosity, he extended his consciousness toward the model, as if something was pulling him toward it. The moment he touched it, he felt a strange change¡ªit wasn''t just a casual touch, but as if the model had become a part of him. He felt a peculiar connection forming between him and the Earth, as if his consciousness and the model had merged.


    The model moved with him, floating beside him in this mysterious void, like a magical companion accompanying him wherever he went. Without hesitation, Qusay focused on a spot in the Pacific Ocean, and suddenly, the scene around him changed completely. He found himself surrounded by an endless ocean, waves playing around him, and a gentle breeze blowing. He immediately realized that touching the model had transported him to this place.


    With growing excitement, he directed his consciousness toward another spot on the model. He chose a random location in Egypt, and in an instant, the scene around him changed again. He found himself floating through the streets of Egypt, observing the daily life and hustle of the people, though he remained invisible to them. He was merely a consciousness observing, with the magical model by his side, as if it were the key to this strange new world.

 4. world tour

    Qusay was mesmerized by the bustling alleys of Egypt, the vibrant energy of the lively markets filled with overlapping voices, fragrant scents, and vivid colors that painted the scene. But soon, his thoughts drifted elsewhere¡ªthis time to Morocco, specifically to the outskirts of Chefchaouen, to his room in Douar Al-Jeer. In an instant, the scene shifted from the noisy, lively markets to complete silence and absolute darkness in a dimly lit room, where his twenty-something body lay on the bed.


    Qusay muttered to himself as he stared at his own body: "Am I really seeing my own body? So, all those previous scenes were part of the present reality? With a power like this, I can observe the world from my room? But I don''t know much about it... When does it activate? How do I stop it? How long does it last?"


    Countless questions swirled in his mind, but he decided to enjoy the ability for now. "Let me savor it and explore different parts of the world. Hahahaha, what a crazy power! But I don''t think it''s suitable for direct combat. Anyway, the world is still at peace, so I won''t need to fight."


    And so, Qusay began to roam the world. He started in Paris, where he found himself floating above the Eiffel Tower, watching the sparkling lights of the city that never sleeps. Then he moved to Tokyo, where he saw the crowded streets filled with cars and pedestrians, and the neon lights illuminating the night. After that, he found himself in the Amazon rainforest, where the green nature and wild animals lived in harmony.


    But Qusay didn''t stop there. He decided to visit even stranger places, like Antarctica, where the white ice stretched endlessly, and the sky shimmered with the northern lights. Then he moved to the Rub'' al Khali desert, where golden sands stretched under the scorching sun.


    With each transition, Qusay felt increasing excitement, but he began to notice something strange. After each shift, he felt a slight fatigue creeping into his consciousness, as if the ability was gradually draining his energy. Yet, he didn''t pay much attention, as he was too immersed in his explorations.


    However, things started to escalate. After visiting New York, where he saw towering skyscrapers and dazzling lights, he felt a mild pain in his head. He thought it was just temporary fatigue and decided to visit another place. This time, he chose the Himalayas, where snow-covered peaks and clear skies awaited. But the pain in his head intensified, feeling like sharp knife stabs.


    "What is this pain? Is this ability consuming more energy than I can handle?" Qusay wondered as he tried to take deep breaths. But he ignored the pain once more and decided to visit one last place: Bali, with its golden beaches and crystal-clear blue waters.


    This time, however, the pain was unbearable. He felt as if his head was about to explode, and his vision began to blur. He tried to return to his room in Douar Al-Jeer, but he found himself unable to focus. Everything around him began to fade into a fog of pain and confusion.


    "No... I can''t... I have to go back!" he screamed internally, but the pain was stronger than him. Suddenly, he felt a complete collapse, as if the world around him was crumbling.


    Qusay woke up abruptly in his room, drenched in sweat, his heart racing. He looked around in shock, convinced he had been dreaming, but the pain in his head was real. "What happened? Was all of that real? Or just my imagination?" he wondered as he touched his aching head.


    But one thing was certain: his ability was real, but it came at a high cost. Qusay decided to take some time to rest and reflect, knowing that his journey to discover this new world was only just beginning.


    Qusay slowly got out of bed, feeling as if he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. The pain in his head began to subside, but he still felt a faint throbbing. He looked at his hands, as if confirming he was back in his real body, then turned his head toward the window to see the golden sunlight filtering through the curtains. "A new morning... but how much time has passed since I lost consciousness?" he wondered.


    He gently massaged his head, trying to shake off the remnants of the pain, then headed to the bathroom. He turned on the hot water and let the steam fill the room before stepping into the shower. The warm water was like a remedy for the lingering fatigue in his body. He closed his eyes and relaxed under the stream, trying to gather his thoughts. "All those places I visited... were they real? Or just a dream?" he wondered, recalling Paris, Tokyo, the Amazon, and even Antarctica.


    After finishing his shower, he wrapped himself in a towel and stepped out of the bathroom. He headed to his room, where his phone lay on the nightstand beside the bed. He remembered placing it on the charger when he first woke up after his long coma, as its battery had been completely drained. He picked up the phone and turned on the screen, only to find dozens of notifications and text messages. He noticed, however, that his call balance was still intact. "Ah, right... I bought credit when I was in Tengoub for household supplies," Qusay recalled with a smile.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    He began scrolling through the list of missed calls. Most were from his boss at work, along with some text messages from colleagues. He opened the messages to find one from his boss that read: "Qusay, where are you? You''ve missed a lot of meetings. We''re worried about you. Please call back immediately."


    Qusay paused for a moment, thinking about what to do. "Everything has changed... the world isn''t the same anymore, and neither am I. Is work even important after all this?" he wondered. But he decided to call his boss to reassure him, at least.


    As he searched for his boss''s number in the call log, he noticed the phone was running slowly, as if it needed an update. "Eight months without use... even the phone needs time to get back to normal," he said with a chuckle.


    Finally, he found his boss''s number and pressed the call button. After a few rings, he heard his boss''s voice on the other end: "Qusay! Finally! Where have you been? We''ve been looking everywhere for you!"


    Qusay: "Hello... I''m sorry for the long absence. I''ve been through some tough health issues, but I''m fine now. I''ll be back at work soon."


    Boss: "We''re glad to hear you''re okay. But... a lot has changed here. We''ll need to talk in person to discuss a new work contract."


    Qusay: "Of course, I''ll be there soon. How about tomorrow? I''m free then."


    Boss: "That works. Don''t forget to bring the necessary documents."


    Qusay: "Understood."


    He hung up the phone and placed it on the nightstand, then sat on the edge of the bed, thinking about everything that had happened. "The world is changing, and I need to change with it. But first, I need to understand this ability I have and how to control it."


    He got up and began to dress, ready to face the world anew. But this time, he knew he carried a powerful secret within him¡ªa secret that could change everything.


    Afterward, Qusay decided to head outside to take a stroll and explore the nature around him. The feeling was entirely different from what he had experienced during his virtual journey around the world. This time, he was in his real body, feeling the air brush against his skin, touching things with his hands, picking flowers, and tossing small pebbles into nearby streams. Everything was tangible and real, as if he was rediscovering the world.


    As he walked among the tall trees and green grass, he remembered what he had heard about those with absorption abilities. "I''ve heard that those with absorption abilities draw their energy from the natural energy around them. Since I live in a natural, mountainous area, I don''t think I''ll face any issues with energy depletion. Maybe if I go to the peak of Mount Souna, where natural energy is strongest and most concentrated, I can recharge my ability more effectively."


    And so, Qusay decided to head to Mount Souna, the towering peak that overlooked the entire region. He began his journey with a calm walk through the mountain trails, surrounded by nature on all sides. The ancient trees, wildflowers, and the sound of babbling streams created a picturesque scene. With each step, he felt his condition improving, as if natural energy was slowly flowing into him.


    When he reached the halfway point, he stopped to rest under the shade of a large tree. He closed his eyes and took deep breaths, trying to feel the energy around him. "Can I really feel it?" he wondered. He focused on the air around him, the trees, and the ground beneath his feet. After a few moments, he began to feel a faint stream of energy flowing into him, as if nature itself was embracing him.


    With growing confidence, Qusay continued his ascent toward the summit. The higher he climbed, the stronger and more concentrated the energy felt. When he reached the peak of Mount Souna, he found himself standing on a rocky ledge, overlooking a breathtaking panoramic view. The sprawling mountains, green forests, and vast blue sky filled him with peace and a sense of connection to the universe.


    Qusay sat on a large rock and closed his eyes once more. This time, he tried to draw in more energy. He took deep breaths and opened himself to the nature around him. He felt his body filling with energy, as if every atom of air, every leaf on the trees, and every drop of water was sharing its strength with him.


    "This is true power," Qusay whispered to himself. "The ability to connect with nature, to be a part of it. Here, at the peak of the mountain, I feel stronger than ever."


    After a while, he opened his eyes and felt a strange vitality filling his body. He decided to test his ability once more. This time, he raised his hand toward the sky and tried to draw in energy from his surroundings. He felt a strong current of energy flowing into him, as if the mountain itself was sharing its strength.


    "This is amazing!" Qusay exclaimed aloud, feeling the energy coursing through his body. "If this is the power of nature, I can do anything!"


    And so, Qusay spent hours at the mountain peak, exploring his ability and enjoying the energy nature provided. When he decided to return, he felt like a new person, filled with energy and confidence. He knew his journey to understand his ability was just beginning, but he was now on the right path.


    As he immersed himself in this feeling, his meditation was interrupted by whispers coming from below the mountain. Qusay listened intently, trying to discern the source of the sound. The whispers were muffled and unclear, but he managed to catch scattered words. "Here... up here... no one will find us..." The phrases were interspersed with faint laughter, as if coming from people who were drunk or in an altered state..!?

 5. Whispers in the Night

    Qusay felt a wave of unease wash over him. "Who could be here at this hour? And why do they seem so... off?" he wondered silently. He decided not to take any risks. He didn''t know the intentions of these people, and he wasn''t looking for an unnecessary confrontation, especially since he was still exploring his abilities. His powers weren''t exactly suited for direct combat anyway.


    He quickly scanned his surroundings. He knew there were three different paths leading to the top of the mountain, and he had taken the easiest one to climb up. Now, he decided to descend using a different, more rugged path¡ªone that would keep him far from the source of the whispers. "Better to avoid them without being seen," he thought as he quietly moved toward the side path.


    Qusay began his descent carefully, avoiding slippery rocks and tangled branches. Every now and then, he paused to listen for the whispers, making sure they weren''t getting closer. With each step, he felt the energy he had drawn from the mountain sharpen his focus, helping him move swiftly and steadily.


    When he reached the halfway point, he stopped to rest under the shade of a large tree. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. "I made the right call by leaving," he told himself. "I don''t know who those people are, but I don''t want to face them right now."


    After a few minutes, he continued his descent until he reached the base of the mountain. He glanced up toward the summit, where the whispers still echoed faintly in the air. "Maybe they''re just a group of kids looking for a quiet spot, but I don''t want to find out," he muttered as he walked away briskly.


    When he reached the main road, he felt a sense of relief. He knew he had avoided a potentially dangerous situation. "Avoiding danger is also a form of strength," he thought as he headed home.


    Back at his house, Qusay made sure to lock the door¡ªsomething he rarely did¡ªwhich showed just how unsettled he was by the night''s events. He went to his bed and lay down, pretending to sleep, but in reality, he was trying to use his ability to project his consciousness and explore the world. However, no matter how hard he tried, it didn''t work. "Hmm, this is strange. I thought I absorbed enough energy to use my ability. Why can''t I do it now?" he wondered, feeling frustrated.


    After some deep thought, it hit him. "Ah, of course! It''s the food! Energy isn''t everything¡ªnutrition matters too," he realized with a laugh. His body needed real fuel, not just the spiritual or mental energy he had drawn from the mountain.


    He decided to make a quick meal to recharge. He remembered that Spanish tortilla was a simple and decent option. It wasn''t his favorite dish, but it was easy to prepare and filling enough to give him the energy he needed.


    He peeled a few potatoes and sliced them thinly, then did the same with an onion. He fried the potatoes and onions in olive oil until they were soft. In a bowl, he whisked some eggs and added the fried potatoes and onions, then poured the mixture into a pan. After a few minutes, the tortilla was golden and firm.


    He cut it into slices and ate quickly, feeling his energy return. "Not bad," he said to himself with a smile. Now, with his body properly fueled, he was ready to try his ability again.


    After finishing his meal, he went back to his room and lay down once more. He closed his eyes and focused on the image of Mount Souna''s peak, the place he had been just hours before. This time, he felt his consciousness slip away more easily, as if the energy from the food had helped him overcome the barrier that had blocked him earlier.


    In moments, he found himself standing on the summit of Mount Souna, the cold air and clear sky surrounding him. He looked around, relieved to find no trace of the strange whispers he had heard earlier. "It worked!" he whispered to himself, feeling a surge of excitement and triumph.


    But his joy was short-lived. As he wandered around the peak, he noticed the same group he had avoided earlier. They were sitting in a circle, laughing and whispering, drinking what looked like a strange beverage. Qusay moved closer, trying to hear what they were saying.


    They were talking about a drink they called "Mahia," an alcoholic spirit distilled from dates or figs, known in certain Moroccan circles. They boasted about its benefits, claiming it granted them "eternal life" and "boundless energy." But their words were jumbled and contradictory, mixing talk of a "General Ammar," a "new renaissance," and a "new era of freedom" with phrases about "eternal joy" and "endless vitality."


    Qusay felt a mix of confusion and concern. "Who is this General Ammar? And what renaissance are they talking about?" he wondered. He noticed they seemed heavily under the influence of the drink, their movements unsteady and their speech slurred. "Is this drink making them act so strangely?" he thought, recalling the whispers he had heard earlier.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    He decided to get closer, knowing they couldn''t see him in his astral form. "Maybe avoiding them earlier was the right call," he told himself. But his curiosity pushed him to learn more. "Who knows? Maybe this drink or these people are connected to something bigger."


    He moved even closer, almost sitting among them without being noticed. At first, their conversation was scattered and incoherent, filled with laughter and crude jokes. They talked about women, fun, and threw around vulgar insults at names Qusay didn''t recognize. "Just a bunch of drunk kids," he thought, ready to leave.


    But then he heard a name that struck him like a thunderbolt: the name of the king. They mentioned him casually, even cursing him at times. "Are they against the regime?" Qusay wondered, his anxiety growing. "Are they planning a coup? That''s impossible¡ªDST (Morocco''s intelligence agency) would never let something like this slide."


    The group consisted of five individuals, and they seemed like locals, judging by their dialect and mannerisms. After listening for a while, Qusay realized they weren''t just an ordinary group. But the real shock came when their tone suddenly turned serious, and they started talking about "Operation Chefchaouen."


    "Our group is ready for the operation," one of them said firmly. "It will be the beginning of the end."


    This statement made Qusay''s heart race. "What operation? What does it have to do with Chefchaouen?" he wondered, trying to make sense of it all. "Are they serious, or is this just more nonsense?"


    Their serious tone and the details of their conversation made him suspect that this was bigger than it seemed. "Maybe I should look into this, but carefully," he thought, continuing to eavesdrop. "I don''t want to get involved in something over my head."


    He stayed longer, trying to gather more information, but as time passed, he realized his presence wasn''t making a difference. The group kept rambling, switching between laughter and incoherent chatter, still drinking their "Mahia," which seemed to disconnect them further from reality.


    "What nonsense," Qusay muttered to himself, feeling frustrated. "Nothing they''re saying makes any sense or is useful."


    They talked about women, fun, and hurled insults at various figures, occasionally returning to the topic of "Operation Chefchaouen" with a serious tone, but without providing any clear details. "Our group is ready," one of them repeated, then went back to laughing and babbling as if nothing had happened.


    "Maybe it''s all just empty talk," Qusay thought, losing hope of getting any useful information. "Or maybe they don''t know anything real, and it''s all just drunken delusions."


    But the term "Operation Chefchaouen" stuck in his mind. "Even if their words are nonsense, this term isn''t ordinary," he told himself. "Maybe I should investigate this further, away from these chatterboxes."


    And so, Qusay decided to leave the group and head to Chefchaouen, a city he knew well¡ªnot because he grew up there, but because it was close to his hometown, and he had visited it often. Chefchaouen was familiar to him, full of memories and places he knew like the back of his hand. But this time, the city was cloaked in night, giving it a different, more mysterious charm.


    When he arrived in Chefchaouen, the scene was familiar yet transformed by the shadows of the night. The blue-painted houses, vibrant under the sun, now glowed softly under the faint moonlight. The narrow alleys he had wandered through many times were draped in long shadows that swayed with the night breeze. The old lanterns hanging on the walls cast a dim light, just enough to outline the path without dispelling the mystery of the place.


    "Chefchaouen at night... what an experience," Qusay whispered to himself as he wandered through the alleys he knew so well. "How many times have I walked here at night, listening to the whispers of the wind between the blue walls?"


    The night air was fresh, carrying the scent of flowers and the mountain breeze, but it also held a deep silence, occasionally broken by the sound of a cat crossing the road or distant murmurs of people talking on a balcony. "The city seems asleep, but I know there''s always something happening beneath this calm surface," Qusay thought.


    But this time, he wasn''t here to enjoy the city''s nocturnal beauty or relive memories. The term "Operation Chefchaouen" still echoed in his mind, and he knew something was happening in this quiet city he loved. "Could there really be something dangerous being planned here, in a place like this?" he wondered as he moved cautiously, trying to pick up any clues that might help him understand what was going on.


    And so, as Qusay wandered through Chefchaouen at night, he felt he was on the verge of uncovering something important. The blue city, with its enchanting beauty and deceptive calm, might be hiding secrets far greater than they appeared. "I''ll find out the truth, no matter what," he told himself as he prepared to continue his exploration in the darkness of the night.


    But suddenly, he noticed something strange: a faint light glowing from one of the old houses in a narrow alley. Deciding to investigate, he effortlessly passed through the wall¡ªafter all, in his astral form, nothing could stop him. Inside, he found a room cluttered with maps and scattered papers. A group of people sat in a circle, whispering to each other, and on the table was a bottle of the "Mahia" drink he had heard about earlier.


    Qusay moved closer, almost sitting among them. They were discussing "Operation Chefchaouen" in serious tones, pointing at specific spots on the maps. "Everything is ready... tomorrow, after everyone arrives, we begin," one of them whispered. Qusay''s heart raced. "What are they planning? And who is ''everyone''?" he wondered silently.


    But suddenly, a sharp pain shot through his head, as if his energy was draining rapidly. "No, not now!" he whispered to himself, trying to focus and stay a little longer. The pain intensified, feeling like his head was about to explode. "I need to return to my body... but I have to know more."

 6. silent spectator

    ***Warning: This chapter deals with the topic of terrorism with the aim of highlighting its dangers and negative impact on society. It is not intended to promote any violent ideas or actions.***


    When Qusay''s consciousness returned to his body, his head still throbbed as if struck by an iron hammer. He sat on the edge of the bed, rubbing his temples in an attempt to ease the pain. "No time to rest now," he muttered to himself. What he had seen and heard in Chefchaouen wasn''t just idle talk. "Operation Chefchaouen" was real, and danger was imminent.


    Qusay''s mind raced. "I can''t go to the police," he thought. "If I tell them, I''ll either become a suspect as one of the group''s members, or they''ll discover my ability¡­ and that''s worse." He knew that using superhuman abilities without a license was a crime, and no one would believe him without solid proof. "I need to find another way."


    After hours of thinking, he came up with a plan. "I''ll use the deep web to send an encrypted, anonymous message urging the authorities to act immediately." The idea was simple yet brilliant: use his awareness to track the group, gather enough information, and send an encrypted message through the deep web to alert the authorities without revealing his identity. "Tomorrow, I''ll begin."


    But Qusay didn''t know much about the deep web. "How do I access it? How do I send an encrypted message without leaving a trace?" he wondered. He decided not to waste any time. Pulling out his laptop, he began searching for information on how to access the deep web. "I need to learn this quickly."


    Qusay didn''t sleep that night. He remained glued to the screen, reading articles and watching tutorials. He learned how to use the Toior browser to access the deep web, how to create a temporary email, and how to send encrypted messages. "This is complicated, but I need to master it."


    Around midnight, he decided to use his ability to speed up the process. Closing his eyes, he attempted to channel his consciousness into the digital world. "Maybe I can see what''s happening on the deep web without using the computer." But the first attempt failed. "Looks like this takes more energy."


    He returned to his laptop and continued learning. He delved into encryption protocols and methods to hide his IP address. "I have to be careful. One small mistake could expose me."


    By dawn, Qusay was exhausted but determined. "I can''t stop now. The danger is coming, and I''m the only one who knows about it."


    Finally, after hours of attempts, he accessed a secret forum on the deep web. "This is the right place." He began drafting an encrypted message warning the authorities about the planned terrorist operation in Chefchaouen. "The message must be clear, but it can''t reveal me."


    Once finished, he tried to send the message using a temporary email to a known anti-terrorism agency. But every attempt was rejected. "Why isn''t it working?" he wondered in frustration. He tried again, but the result was the same. "Looks like I''ve failed."


    With the sunrise, Qusay was drained, but he refused to give up. "If I can''t send the message, I''ll go to Chefchaouen myself and gather more information." After recharging his energy from nature, he projected his consciousness towards Chefchaouen.


    What he saw there shocked him. The city was in chaos. Streets were swarming with police and royal gendarmerie, and armored vehicles surrounded specific areas. "What happened here?" he wondered.


    As he approached, he saw a group of people handcuffed and being loaded into police vans. Their faces were covered with black scarves, adding an air of mystery and tension to the scene. Although their faces were hidden, their body language radiated anger and fear.


    He overheard one officer saying, "The terrorist operation has been foiled. Over thirty people involved, most of them with fire power."


    "Fire power?" Qusay was stunned. "Were they planning to blow up the city using their powers?" he thought silently. He then caught more details: "They had strategically placed gunpowder in a strange matrix that would''ve caused the entire city to fall into catastrophe."


    When Qusay returned to his body, he felt utterly drained. Sitting on the couch, he grabbed his phone and browsed the news to learn more about what had happened. He quickly found a detailed report on the thwarted terrorist attack.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "Major Terrorist Plot Foiled in Chefchaouen"


    *In a preemptive security operation, Moroccan authorities successfully thwarted a dangerous terrorist plot targeting the city of Chefchaouen. According to security sources, more than thirty individuals were arrested, most of them possessing Fire power.


    The group had planned to blow up the city using a sophisticated gunpowder matrix strategically placed in several critical locations. Authorities confirmed that the plan would have resulted in massive destruction if not stopped in time.


    A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior stated, "This operation could have been catastrophic. We are proud of the efforts of our security forces, who managed to foil it just in time."*


    Though Qusay was relieved that the terrorist plot had been stopped, a wave of guilt crept into his heart like a dark cloud. "Could I have done more?" he wondered silently, staring at his hands as though they carried the weight of the world. "Should I have intervened directly? Should I have been the hero who saved the city?"


    But he quickly realized he was just one person, small in a vast world filled with events beyond his control. "Perhaps I''m just a side character in this grand story," he whispered to himself, as if trying to accept his role. "A background figure, watching, learning, but rarely at the center of events."


    This thought made him reflect on his role in life. "Am I merely a spectator? A secondary character with no impact on major events?" he questioned, feeling the weight of this realization pressing on his shoulders. "How many times have I stood on the sidelines, watching events unfold without being able to change their course?"


    Still, he decided to accept this role, at least for now. "I''ll play the observer¡­ and only intervene when I''m ready." These words carried a sense of temporary acceptance, yet they also reflected a deep internal struggle. "Maybe this is my role for now: to watch, to learn, and to wait for the right moment."


    After this internal debate, Qusay felt the tension that had been weighing on him begin to turn into intense fatigue. He decided to take a break from all this pressure. He put on his light jacket and left his house, heading toward the nearby nature. The weather was slightly cold, but the warm rays of sunlight pierced through the dense branches of the trees, making the place look like a painting.


    He stopped under a large olive tree, closed his eyes, and drew energy from the surrounding tranquility. He took a deep breath of the fresh air and felt the tension gradually begin to fade. "Nature is the best remedy," he whispered to himself, as he reached out to touch the rough bark of the tree, as if trying to connect with the earth.


    After feeling at ease, he returned home. He decided to prepare a simple yet satisfying meal. He opened the fridge and took out two eggs, fresh tomatoes, and some onions. He began slicing the tomatoes and onions into thin pieces, then heated a pan on the stove and added a bit of olive oil. Once the oil was warm, he added the onions and stirred them until they turned golden, then added the tomatoes and let them soften slightly. Finally, he cracked the two eggs over the mixture and gently stirred them until the meal was ready.


    Qusay sat at the small kitchen table and ate his meal slowly, savoring every bite. "Sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying," he thought as he finished his food.


    After his meal, he headed to his bed, closed his eyes, and prepared to use his ability once again. This time, he decided to go to Fes. As soon as his consciousness arrived, he began moving between characters, observing their daily lives.


    The first person he noticed was an old man sitting on a wooden chair in front of his house, reading an old newspaper. The man''s face was full of wrinkles, but his eyes sparkled with wisdom. "Perhaps this man has lived a long life full of stories," Qusay wondered to himself.


    Then he moved to a young woman who was washing clothes in a basin outside her home. She was humming a light tune, as if trying to make the hard work seem easier. "She seems happy despite the exhaustion," Qusay thought.


    After that, he noticed a child playing with a ball and his dog in the street. The child was laughing innocently, while the dog jumped around him excitedly. "This is the simple life we sometimes forget," Qusay whispered to himself.


    But soon his observation settled on a young man named Adnan. Adnan was part of a group in the neighborhood called "The Delinquents." He was sitting in a dark corner, talking to another young man in a sharp tone. Adnan, 17 years old, had a tall and slender build (1.84 m, 66 kg), with thick, dark brown hair, neatly shaved on the sides. His shiny brown eyes reflected determination and ambition, but they also carried a hint of defiance and impulsiveness.


    "Who is this young man?" Qusay wondered to himself as he observed Adnan closely. "And what is this group up to?"


    Adnan was wearing a green jacket, his favorite color, which added a touch of vibrancy to his appearance. As he spoke to his friend, his movements were quick and enthusiastic, as if he couldn''t stay still for long. "I do what I want," Adnan said loudly, laughing. "Everything''s great!"


    But Qusay noticed something else in Adnan''s eyes, something deeper than just youthful enthusiasm. "This young man has a lot of energy, but he''s also quick-tempered," Qusay thought. "Is he really part of a delinquent group? Or is he just a young man trying to find his place in this world?"


    Suddenly, Qusay heard words from Adnan that made his heart race. "We''ll take down those weaklings," Adnan said with a tone full of malice. "They think water can extinguish my thirst for blood."


    Qusay was shocked by these words. "What does this mean?" he wondered in his mind. "Is Adnan part of something bigger? Is he dangerous?" Qusay felt the tension returning to him, as if he had discovered something he hadn''t expected.

 7. A celebration in two parallel worlds

    Adnan headed to his favorite spot in the neighborhood, sitting down to watch the children play innocently. His dark brown hair swayed gently in the breeze, and his bright brown eyes reflected an unyielding energy. He wore his favorite green jacket, which added a vibrant touch to his appearance. Adnan, the tall and slender young man, knew everyone in the neighborhood, and everyone respected him for his kindness and his role in protecting the area from intruders.


    "Adnan, have you heard about the intruders who tried to break into the neighborhood last night?" one of his friends asked anxiously.


    Adnan smiled confidently, "Don''t worry, I dealt with them. They won''t be coming back." His tone was filled with enthusiasm, as if he thrived on every challenge he faced. He loved competition and battles, not out of violence, but out of a desire to protect those he cared about. These qualities made Qusai feel completely at ease around Adnan. No longer did any doubts linger in Qusai''s mind about this good-hearted young man. Yet, Qusai continued to watch him cautiously, wondering if this kindness and enthusiasm hid something deeper.


    Qusai decided to try something new. This time, he wanted to direct his consciousness randomly, without a specific goal. He closed his eyes and focused on freeing his mind from any constraints. Suddenly, he found himself on a plane, soaring through the sky. The atmosphere was calm, but he noticed a girl sitting by the window, her face marked by deep sadness.


    The girl''s name was Ghadeer. Qusai felt her strong presence, despite her sorrow. She wore a simple dress, her long black hair cascading over her shoulders. She gazed out the window, as if searching for something in the distant horizon. The plane had taken off from Amman, Jordan, heading to Washington, D.C. Qusai felt curious¡ªwhat could make this girl seem so sad?


    After the plane landed at a large international airport in Washington, Ghadeer moved with the crowd toward the terminal. Bright lights shone everywhere, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation. As she exited the arrival gate, Ghadeer was greeted by large banners displaying the names of the newcomers. She was directed to a special area where luxurious buses waited to transport them to the event venue.


    The bus was comfortable and equipped with all amenities, with large windows offering a view of the scenic city of Washington. During the ride, Ghadeer listened to a guide explaining the details of the day ahead. The bus arrived at a massive hall where the grand event was being held. The hall was filled with lights and colors, with giant screens displaying inspiring images of past heroes with extraordinary abilities.


    The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security stood on the stage, flanked by American flags waving behind him. He began his speech with a strong, confident voice:


    "Dear citizens, future heroes, welcome to the land of dreams, the land of freedom, the land of endless opportunities. The United States of America, this great nation built on the values of liberty, justice, and equality, welcomes you today not just as guests, but as new members of one family¡ªa family that believes in the power of the individual and their ability to change the world."


    The Secretary paused for a moment as the crowd applauded enthusiastically. Then he continued:


    "We are here today to celebrate you because you represent the future of this nation. Your unique abilities are not just natural gifts; they are powerful tools that will help us face the challenges ahead. We live in a new era, an era that demands strength, unity, and readiness to confront any obstacle."


    He raised his voice, addressing each person in the room individually:


    "There are those who try to weaken us, to divide us, to steal our dreams. But we will not allow them. We are strong, we are united, and we are capable of changing the world. You, the heroes, will be at the forefront of this change. You will protect this nation, defend its values, and build its future."


    With a confident smile, he added:


    "Today, we welcome you not just as individuals with extraordinary abilities, but as heroes who will alter the course of history. You will inspire future generations, and we will be proud of you just as you are proud of yourselves. So, heroes, prepare for your new journey, because the future begins here, and it begins now."


    After the Secretary''s inspiring speech, the process of assigning the newcomers to different teams began. The massive hall buzzed with energy and excitement as the newcomers stood in orderly rows, waiting to be chosen by team leaders. The atmosphere was charged with competition, as each team leader sought to recruit the best talents to strengthen their ranks.


    Ghadeer, standing in the front row, seemed detached from all the excitement. Her expression remained unchanged, not a single smile appearing despite the enthusiasm that had spread through the crowd after the Secretary''s speech. She looked calm, as if she were in another world, which left Qusai, who was observing her from a distance, utterly fascinated. He wondered to himself, "What keeps her so calm amidst all this noise? Is she afraid? Or does she simply not care?"


    The selection process began with strict rules set by the team management. Each team had a limited number of spots, and the selection was based on a thorough evaluation of each newcomer''s abilities. The main teams were:This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Wings of Freedom: A team specializing in aerial missions and rapid reconnaissance, known for its speed and precision.


    Shadow Guardians: A covert operations team specializing in espionage and stealth missions.


    Storm Champions: A combat-focused team specializing in direct confrontations and territorial defense.


    Future Protectors: A team dedicated to developing new technologies and applying extraordinary abilities in research and innovation.


    The leader of the Wings of Freedom, Gene, stepped forward toward Ghadeer. Gene was a tall man with sharp features and piercing eyes, exuding an air of authority. He wore a formal dark blue uniform with the team''s emblem on his chest¡ªa pair of silver wings crossed elegantly, shimmering under the bright lights of the hall. The wings were intricately designed, each feather meticulously crafted to convey strength and freedom. At the center of the wings was a small lightning bolt symbol, representing speed and excellence.


    Gene looked at Ghadeer with confidence and said in a clear voice, "You will be the newest member of my team."


    Ghadeer seemed slightly flustered but accepted the offer with a shy smile. She didn''t say a word, simply nodding in agreement. Qusai, who was watching the scene, felt a sense of admiration for her humility and calmness. He wondered to himself, "What is she hiding? Why does she seem so different from the rest?"


    After Ghadeer''s selection, the selection ceremony continued. Each team leader stepped forward to choose their members. The process was swift and precise, with each team vying for the best talents. The competition was fierce, especially from the Shadow Guardians, who were looking for members with stealth and evasion abilities.


    In the end, all the newcomers were assigned to their respective teams, and a new phase of training and preparation began. Ghadeer, now part of the Wings of Freedom, started getting to know her new teammates and team leader. She smiled shyly from time to time but maintained her mysterious calmness, which continued to intrigue Qusai.


    Qusai decided to direct his consciousness elsewhere this time. Suddenly, he found himself in Moscow, where a grand event was being held at the presidential palace. The palace was illuminated by golden lights that sparkled in the night sky, with red Russian flags proudly waving in the cold air. The main hall of the palace was adorned with luxurious decorations, with massive crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, reflecting light onto walls covered with paintings depicting Russia''s glorious history.


    The atmosphere was entirely different from the event in Washington. Here, the excitement was more intense and fierce, with a touch of harshness and roughness that reflected the Russian spirit. The attendees wore elegant formal attire, but their gazes carried a sense of defiance and resilience. Russian national music played in the background, adding a sense of national pride to the event.


    The Russian President stood on the stage, surrounded by his personal guards, who wore their uniforms with pride. The President was a tall man with sharp features and cold blue eyes that reflected unwavering strength and determination. He began his speech with a powerful, confident voice that filled the hall with energy:


    "Heroes, the future, welcome to the heart of great Russia, the land of heroes and legends. We are here today to celebrate you because you represent the strength and determination of this nation. Your unique abilities are not just natural gifts; they are powerful weapons that will help us reclaim what has been taken from us and build a future we can be proud of."


    The President paused for a moment as the crowd applauded enthusiastically. Then he continued, his voice growing louder and harsher:


    "There are those who try to weaken us, to steal our lands, to insult our honor. But we will not allow them. We are strong, we are united, and we are capable of reclaiming everything we have lost. Ukraine is just the beginning. We will take back all the lands that have been taken from us, and we will restore Russia to its rightful place as a superpower."


    He raised his voice even more, addressing each person in the room individually:


    "You, the heroes, will be at the forefront of this battle. You will protect this nation, defend its honor, and build its future. Today, we welcome you not just as individuals with extraordinary abilities, but as soldiers in the great Russian army. You will be a source of pride for future generations. Heroes, prepare for your new journey, because the future we build together will be written by your hands, and you will be the ones to raise Russia''s flag high in the face of every challenge. The future begins here, begins now, and we will forge it together with unbreakable strength and unyielding will."


    After the President''s speech, the selection process began. Each team leader stepped forward to choose their members. The atmosphere was charged with competition, as each team sought to recruit the best talents. The main teams were:


    Iron Wolves: A team specializing in direct combat operations, known for its strength and ferocity.


    Night Falcons: A covert operations team specializing in espionage and stealth missions.


    Tundra Titans: A combat-focused team specializing in large-scale confrontations and territorial defense.


    Honor Guardians: A team dedicated to developing new technologies and applying extraordinary abilities in research and innovation.


    Among the newcomers, Qusai''s attention was drawn to a young man named Daniel. Daniel had dark brown hair, neatly trimmed, and cold blue eyes like the winter sky, reflecting determination and resilience. He possessed the incredible ability to transform into a giant. Qusai felt curious about this young man and decided to follow his daily life to learn more about his abilities. He also tried to learn some Russian words to better understand what was happening around him.


    Qusai began observing Daniel closely. Daniel appeared calm most of the time, but he would transform into a giant in moments of anger or danger. Qusai noticed that Daniel was trying to control his ability but struggled with it.


    "Can I learn something from this beast?" Qusai wondered to himself as he watched Daniel training in the gymnasium of the Tundra Titans.


    Qusai returned to his consciousness in his room, feeling exhausted but filled with new ideas. He knew the world around him was changing rapidly, and he needed to be ready for any challenge that might come his way.


    As Qusai was about to head to the shower after a long day of exploration and observation, his eyes fell on the computer he had left running on his desk. The screen was still on, but what caught his attention was a pop-up window that had suddenly appeared in the middle of the screen. The window was simple in design, but the words written in it glowed in a striking red:


    "Do you want to be a member of DST?"

 8. The Mysterious Message

    Qusay sat in his dark room, staring at the faint glow of his computer screen illuminating his face. His fingers moved slowly across the keyboard, while his eyes remained fixed on the strange message that had appeared in the corner of the screen days ago. The message was still there, glowing faintly like a ghost haunting him: "Do you want to be a member of DST?"


    He hadn''t clicked on it yet, but it had consumed his thoughts since he first noticed it. He knew exactly what those three letters stood for: "Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire," or the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, Morocco''s intelligence agency known for its covert operations and exceptional information-gathering capabilities. But what intrigued him was how this message had reached him. He felt a mix of curiosity and unease, as if this message could open a door to an unknown world.


    Qusay sat in silence for several minutes, contemplating the message once more. Questions flooded his mind: Who sent it? How did they know about him? Was it a joke or something serious? The questions came rapidly, but he couldn''t resist the urge to know more. Suddenly, he remembered something else that had been on his mind: his manager at work. Three days ago, he had promised to meet with his manager to discuss renewing his contract. But he had been so preoccupied with his own secret activities¡ªobserving Adnan, Ghadeer, and Daniel¡ªthat he had completely forgotten about the meeting. A pang of guilt hit him, but he quickly refocused on the screen. Finally, he decided to click on the message.


    A chat window popped up. The sender was using a pseudonym: "ShadowX." The conversation began with a simple sentence:


    "Hello, we''ve noticed your activity online. We believe you''re the right person for us."


    That sentence was enough to make Qusay uneasy. How did this person know about his activities? His hands trembled slightly as he typed his first reply:


    "Who are you? How do you know about me? And what do you want me to do?"


    ShadowX''s response was calm and precise:


    "We know you possess exceptional investigative skills, and that''s what we need. Don''t worry, we''re not here to harm you. We''re offering you an opportunity."


    Qusay wasn''t easily convinced. He began asking more specific questions to uncover the sender''s intentions:


    "If you''re really from DST, why are you hiding behind a pseudonym? And why me specifically?"


    ShadowX''s reply was airtight:


    "We operate in secrecy to protect ourselves and our sources. As for why we chose you, it''s simple: we know you can access information that others can''t. You have a unique talent."


    Qusay began to feel somewhat reassured. ShadowX''s answers were logical and convincing, and the offer was tempting: a fixed monthly salary with no obligations, plus a special fee for each mission. ShadowX assured Qusay that he wouldn''t have to reveal his real identity, which gave him a sense of security.


    ShadowX continued:


    "You''ll receive a fixed monthly payment of 7,000 dirhams, regardless of whether you do anything. This amount is yours with no strings attached. It''s a guarantee of financial stability. As for the missions, they''re entirely optional, and each one comes with its own special reward¡ªrewards you can''t even imagine. The missions will only involve gathering information, and we''ll never ask you to do anything outside that scope."


    Qusay paused for a moment, rereading the message. Seven thousand dirhams a month for doing nothing? And a special fee for each mission? The offer far exceeded his expectations. He began to wonder about the nature of these missions, but his curiosity grew with every word he read. He quickly typed a reply:


    "Seven thousand dirhams a month with no obligations? That''s a lot. And what kind of missions would have special rewards?"


    ShadowX responded swiftly and clearly:


    "Exactly. The 7,000 dirhams are yours every month, whether you take on missions or not. As for the missions, they''re optional, and each one has its own reward. Some involve gathering classified information, while others require advanced technical skills. Each mission will be different, and you''ll know the details when the time comes. As for the special rewards, they''ll be bonuses for exceptional performance. The more complex the mission, the greater the reward. We know you''re capable of achieving remarkable results, and that''s why we''re willing to pay what your skills are worth."Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    Qusay felt more excited than ever. The monthly amount was enough to change his life, but the idea of special rewards for each mission added a new layer of temptation. He imagined himself earning huge sums for using skills he had practiced in secret for years. He typed:


    "This is an incredible offer. I''m ready to start whenever you are."


    ShadowX replied:


    "Agreed. We''ll be in touch."


    After the conversation ended, Qusay turned off his computer and sat in silence, staring into the darkness around him. He felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. He began to imagine what the upcoming missions might be like.


    Later That Day


    Qusay stood up from his chair slowly, feeling the weight of the thoughts swirling in his head. He had been meaning to take a shower for a while, but his preoccupation with the mysterious message on his computer had made him postpone it. Now, he decided to finally do what he had intended. He walked to his closet, opened it deliberately, and pulled out a soft, light-blue towel and a clean white robe to wear after his shower. He carried the towel and robe in his left hand, while holding a bar of fragrant soap and a small bottle of shampoo in his right. He headed to the bathroom, feeling a sense of relief as he heard the sound of water filling the tub. He turned off the light in the room, leaving only a faint glow from the small bathroom window. He began to undress slowly, then stepped under the warm water, letting it wash away his fatigue and worries.


    After putting on his clean white robe, Qusay felt refreshed. He decided to head to the weekly market in Tanqoub, where he knew he could find everything he needed. He grabbed a small cloth bag, put some money and his house key inside, and walked confidently toward the market, breathing in the fresh morning air. At the market, he wandered through stalls filled with fresh vegetables, fruits, and aromatic herbs. He bought some onions, tomatoes, green peppers, and a piece of fresh lamb. The market was bustling with life, the harmonious sounds of vendors and buyers filling the air. After finishing his shopping, he returned home with his bag full of supplies.


    Back at home, Qusay decided to prepare a dish called "Boulfaf," a meal that reminded him of the festive atmosphere of Eid al-Adha in Morocco. He gathered some firewood from outside his house, where he had a small pile of dry wood. He arranged the wood carefully in a designated spot for the fire, lit a match, and placed it among the wood, waiting for the fire to catch slowly. Once the fire was burning well, he took a sharp knife and began cutting the meat into small pieces, seasoning them with cumin, pepper, and salt.


    Qusay prepared metal skewers and began threading the meat onto them evenly. He placed the skewers on the grill over the fire, leaving them for 3-4 minutes on each side until the meat was well-cooked. The delicious aroma of the grilled meat filled the air, making Qusay even hungrier. Once the meat was fully cooked, he removed the skewers from the fire and placed them on a large serving plate. He sprinkled them with an extra amount of spices (cumin, pepper, and salt) to enhance the flavor.


    Qusay served the "Boulfaf" hot and sat on the ground by the fire, enjoying every bite of the dish that brought back fond memories. Beside the plate, he placed a cup of hot tea, which complemented his delicious meal.


    After finishing his meal, Qusay felt full and satisfied. He decided to head to Mount Souna, a place he often visited for meditation and absorbing natural energy. He carried a small bottle of water and wore comfortable walking shoes. He began his journey toward the mountain, listening to the sounds of nature around him. When he reached the summit, he sat on a large rock, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply. He felt the natural energy flowing into him, giving him a sense of calm and strength. He knew this energy would help him use his supernatural abilities more effectively.


    After about an hour of meditation, Qusay stood up slowly, feeling ready to face any challenges that might await him in the future.


    Later That Evening


    When Qusay returned home, he felt a bit tired. He decided to have a quick meal before going to bed. He prepared some fried eggs with fresh tomatoes, a simple but satisfying dish. After finishing his meal, he headed to his bed, where he lay down slowly, closing his eyes.


    Qusay knew his body would fall asleep (this was one of the perks of his supernatural ability¡ªinstead of sleeping, he could use his power to let his brain and body rest while his consciousness roamed the world). But this time, he decided to use his ability differently. Previously, he had to think of a specific place to send his consciousness, but now he discovered he could focus on a specific person and transfer his consciousness to wherever that person was. This new ability was more convenient, as he wouldn''t have to search for someone each time.


    Qusay closed his eyes and focused on an image of Adnan in his mind. After a few moments, he felt his consciousness begin to drift away from his body. Within seconds, he found himself in the middle of an unexpected battle. The scenes were chaotic, but not as intense as he had imagined.


    Adnan shouted: "Today, we''ll teach you a lesson in ethics!!"

 9. Battle at Dusk

    The working-class neighborhood in the city of Fez appeared calm under the light of the setting sun, but the tranquility was deceptive. In a small square nestled between narrow alleys, two opposing groups had gathered: the Delinquents (Team Fire) and the Flood of Mercy (Team Water). The dim light of dusk made the scene look like a painting, but the impending chaos was about to ruin this aesthetic. The battle was large in scale, with 22 youths from the Delinquents facing off against 27 youths from the Flood of Mercy, all minors aged between 14 and 17. The air was thick with tension, as if every breath drawn carried the scent of impending destruction.


    "What a scene!" thought Qusay as he floated in the air, out of reach of the fighters. "Adnan looks like a volcano about to erupt, while Yasser is trying to be an impenetrable dam against this flood. But who will win? Fire or water?"


    "You started this!" shouted the reckless Adnan from Team Fire, as he tried to unleash a small fiery spark from his hands. "You took over the secret training area, which has been ours for months!" His words rose with each syllable, as if cutting through the air like a fiery arrow, while the spark he released flew into the air, burning briefly before disappearing, leaving behind a faint smell of sulfur.


    "Adnan seems overly excited," commented Qusay as he watched the spark Adnan had released. "But his enthusiasm might be his weakness. Look how the spark veered off and burned his hair! If he were more focused, things would be different now."


    "The training area?!" retorted Yasser, the leader of Team Water, angrily. "You''re the ones who neglected it and let it fall into ruin! We''re the ones who fixed it and made it usable again!" His words flowed like a strong current of water, while his hands trembled with anger, as if they were about to unleash a devastating wave.


    "Yasser seems calmer, but his anger is evident," observed Qusay. "He knows how to use every drop of water to his advantage. But will that be enough to face Adnan''s wild fire?"


    The battle escalated suddenly when Adnan shouted enthusiastically, "Come on, let''s show them the power of fire!" trying to motivate himself and his team with a fighting spirit. With a quick and bold step, he charged toward Team Water, determined to prove his superiority. But fate had other plans; he tripped over an invisible stone in the chaos and almost fell to the ground, barely regaining his balance at the last moment. Adnan tried to regain the initiative by launching a strong fiery spark toward his opponents, but his haste and lack of focus led to a disastrous result: the spark veered off course and burned the tip of his hair instead of hitting the opposing team. He screamed in panic, "Oh no, my hair!" as a faint burning smell filled the air, leaving a small cloud of smoke above his head.


    "What an embarrassment!" laughed Qusay as he watched Adnan trying to put out the fire in his hair. "But don''t underestimate him. Adnan may be reckless, but he doesn''t know surrender. Look how he turns his anger into offensive energy!"


    Adnan didn''t succumb to the burn on his hair but instead channeled his anger into offensive energy. Quickly, he rushed toward Khaled, the optimistic boy from Team Water, who was trying to organize a coordinated water attack. With a strong blow, Adnan hit Khaled on the shoulder, causing him to lose focus for a moment. But Khaled, known for his composure and strength, didn''t give up easily. He felt the pain Adnan had caused but quickly retaliated with a strong and precise punch that hit Adnan directly in the face. The blow was so powerful that Adnan staggered backward, almost losing his balance again, while cheers and gasps of astonishment rose from both teams, as if each strike added to the destruction enveloping the square.


    "That was a strong hit!" shouted Qusay as he saw Adnan stagger. "But Adnan is still standing. This boy has an iron will. Still, Yasser and his team seem more organized. Will that be the deciding factor in the end?"


    The battle was becoming more intense, as each team began to use their skills more cleverly. Adnan, having learned from his first mistake, tried to focus more, while Khaled seized the opportunity to strengthen his team''s defenses. Their confrontation reflected not just a clash between fire and water, but also between determination and optimism, between furious strength and calm wisdom. The ground beneath their feet was torn by the violent movements, and debris flew in every direction, as if the square itself was groaning under the weight of the battle.


    "This conflict between Adnan and Khaled reminds me of a battle between two natural elements," thought Qusay. "Fire burns everything in its path, but water extinguishes it with coolness and wisdom. Who will win in the end?"


    "This is what you deserve!" shouted Khaled, rubbing his sore shoulder. "You won''t impose your control on us anymore!" His words echoed in the air, while water droplets fell from his hands, like tears from the square witnessing unparalleled destruction.


    "Khaled seems determined, but Adnan still retains his ferocity," observed Qusay. "This conflict won''t end easily. Every strike increases the tension, and every movement leaves a trace of destruction."


    Amid the chaos that engulfed the battlefield, Rami, the strong, muscular youth from Team Fire, was violently grappling with Ali, the smart and agile boy from Team Water. Their confrontation embodied a clash between physical strength and mental flexibility. Rami, relying on his immense strength, repeatedly tried to take down Ali with powerful blows and violent movements, using all his muscles to achieve this. But Ali, with his intelligence and speed, skillfully dodged every attack, as if dancing between Rami''s strikes without being harmed. Ali''s movements were smooth and calculated, making Rami increasingly frustrated, while the ground beneath their feet cracked under the violent blows.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "Rami relies on his strength, but Ali proves that intelligence can surpass strength," commented Qusay. "But will that be enough to save his team? The battle is still in its early stages, and smoke is rising from every side."


    After several failed attempts by Rami, Ali found the perfect opportunity to strike back. With lightning speed, Ali took advantage of Rami''s stumble after his last attack and delivered a quick, precise blow to Rami''s knee. The strike was enough to destabilize Rami, who fell to the ground with a loud thud. "Ah!" screamed Rami as he tried to get up, but the pain in his knee made him pause for a moment, giving Ali the chance to strengthen his position in the battle. Debris flew around them, as if the square was falling apart under the weight of the fight.


    "That was a smart hit!" shouted Qusay as he saw Rami fall. "Ali knows how to seize opportunities. But Rami is still a threat. The battle isn''t over yet."


    Amid these events, the confrontation between Rami and Ali wasn''t the only one drawing attention. Suddenly, a member of Team Water shouted in panic, "Watch out! They''re using stones!" The shout was a warning to his team after noticing Sami, a member of Team Fire, picking up a stone from the ground and hurling it forcefully toward Team Water. The stone flew through the air at high speed, forcing Team Water to scatter and seek cover to avoid being hit. The stone hit a nearby wall, causing it to crack and partially collapse, adding to the chaos.


    "Stones now?!" shouted Qusay as he saw the stone flying through the air. "This complicates things further. The battle was elemental, and now it''s become more primitive. Where will this conflict lead?"


    "Do you have a problem with that?!" retorted Sami with a provocative laugh, moving nimbly through his team''s ranks, trying to confuse his opponents with his speed and agility. "You''re the ones who started using sticks!" His words heightened the tension, as both teams began accusing each other of resorting to unfair tactics. Sami, who knew how to seize opportunities, picked up another stone from the ground and hurled it quickly toward Team Water. This time, the stone hit a member of the team on the shoulder, causing a brief cry of pain and increasing Team Water''s anger. Blood began to flow from the wound, while stones flew in every direction, like destructive projectiles.


    "This is making things worse," whispered Qusay. "Blood is now being shed, and anger is rising. The battle is no longer just a clash between fire and water; it''s become a real war."


    Team Water didn''t hesitate to retaliate. Yasser, one of Team Water''s prominent members, quickly and firmly picked up a wooden stick from the ground and began advancing confidently toward Team Fire, waving the stick in the air at high speed. "Come on, let''s show them who''s stronger!" shouted Yasser loudly, trying to motivate his team and stir their enthusiasm. His quick and powerful movements with the stick made Team Fire retreat slightly, as they began to think about how to deal with this new threat. The stick caused additional destruction with each strike, smashing everything in its path.


    "Yasser looks like a true leader," observed Qusay. "He knows how to motivate his team and guide them. But will that be enough to stop Adnan''s merciless fire?"


    Ziad, the leader of Team Fire, tried to keep his composure amid the escalating chaos. He skillfully dodged the stick''s blows but felt frustration creeping in due to the weakness of his fiery power against these primitive weapons. "This isn''t fair!" shouted Ziad, trying to calm the situation and restore balance to the battle. "You''re using weapons, while we''re just trying to defend ourselves! Where''s the honor in that?" His words rose with each syllable, while fiery sparks flew from his hands, trying to push back the opponents.


    "Ziad is trying to keep his composure, but the pressure on him is immense," commented Qusay. "His team needs strong leadership now more than ever. Will he be able to guide them to victory?"


    But Yasser wasn''t ready to hear any excuses. "Defending yourselves?!" he retorted with clear anger in his voice, still waving the stick in the air, threatening anyone who came near him. "You''re the ones who started the attack! Don''t blame us if you can''t handle the consequences!" His words were sharp and full of challenge, further heightening the tension between the teams. The stick caused additional destruction with each strike, smashing everything in its path.


    "Yasser leaves no room for doubt about his resolve," observed Qusay. "But will this challenge be enough to end the battle, or will it fuel the fire even more?"


    Meanwhile, members of Team Water began to gather behind Yasser, ready to support him at any moment. The stick he was waving became a symbol of strength and temporary superiority for Team Water, while Team Fire tried to reorganize their ranks. Ziad, feeling the increasing pressure, realized he had to act quickly to save the situation. "Focus! Don''t let them confuse you!" he shouted to his team, trying to regain control. But destruction surrounded the square from every side, and debris flew in every direction.


    "Ziad is trying to regain control, but the chaos is increasing," whispered Qusay. "The battle has now become a test of will and endurance. Who will last until the end?"


    But Yasser wasn''t ready to give them a chance. With a quick step, he advanced toward Ziad, waving the stick in his face. "If you want a battle, we''ll give you what you want!" he said confidently, as Team Water began to advance in a coordinated manner, exploiting the situation to impose their control over the battlefield. The stick caused additional destruction with each strike, smashing everything in its path.


    "Yasser seems to have the upper hand now," observed Qusay. "But Adnan is still a threat. The battle isn''t over yet, and smoke is rising from every side."


    As the battle continued, darkness began to envelop the square, and the moonlight became the only source of light. Everyone began to feel exhausted, as the battle had drained their energy to a great extent. Ziad, trying to catch his breath, shouted, "This isn''t helping; our strength is too weak!" Yasser, who was also feeling tired but trying to appear calm, replied, "Maybe we need to stop and think of a better way!"


    "Everyone is feeling exhausted," observed Qusay. "But Yasser seems to retain some calm. Perhaps that will give his team the advantage in the end."


    At that moment, Yasser felt something strange. He began to feel a current of energy flowing within him, as if a new power was awakening deep inside. He looked at his hands and saw water droplets turning into a small stream, smoothly wrapping around his fingers. He said loudly, trying to get everyone''s attention, "Wait, I have something new!" The water stream began to flow powerfully, as if it was about to cause even greater destruction.


    "What a development!" shouted Qusay as he saw the new energy flowing from Yasser. "This could change the course of the battle. But will it be enough to stop Adnan''s merciless fire?"

 10. The Glow

    The battle continued, but the tide began to turn in favor of Team Water, as a flood of mercy and power flowed from Yasser. His strikes became more precise and powerful, forcing Team Fire to retreat further and further. Adnan, who had been fiercely resisting, used many of his fiery sparks to defend his friends, as if he were fighting for his life. His sparks flew in every direction, trying to push back Team Water, but he could feel exhaustion creeping in with every spark he unleashed.


    "Adnan is still resisting, but he looks exhausted," observed Qusay. "Will he be able to withstand this new power Yasser has?"


    "Don''t give up!" shouted Adnan, trying to gather his remaining strength. But the blows he received from Team Water were harsh, especially after Yasser began using the new water current he had discovered. One powerful strike hit Adnan in the chest, causing him to stagger backward, but he quickly regained his balance, determined to keep fighting. His face reflected defiance and determination, as if he knew this battle was a test of his strength and will.


    "Adnan looks like he''s fighting for his life," whispered Qusay. "But Yasser seems to hold all the cards now. Is this the end?"


    The pressure was immense, and Team Water was growing stronger thanks to the new energy Yasser had discovered. The battle, which had started with a balance between the two teams, was now tipping in favor of Team Water, as they began to control the square with their new tactics and renewed strength.


    "The battle is nearing its end," observed Qusay. "But Adnan is still resisting. Will there be a surprise in the end?"


    Adnan charged fiercely toward Yasser, the leader of the Flood of Mercy, defying anyone who tried to stand in his way. His fiery sparks flew in every direction, either burning his opponents'' faces directly or setting their clothes on fire, forcing many members of Team Water to retreat in fear of burns. His steps were quick and decisive, as if he knew this was the decisive moment to prove his strength.


    "Adnan looks like he knows this is his last chance," observed Qusay. "But Yasser seems ready for anything. Who will win in the end?"


    After overcoming every obstacle, Adnan finally reached Yasser. In a flash, he reached out and grabbed Yasser''s shirt tightly, trying to bring him down. But before he could execute his plan, a yellow water wave shot out from Yasser''s hand, hitting Adnan directly in the face. The wave was so powerful that it blinded him momentarily, causing him to stagger backward as he tried to regain his balance.


    "That wave was powerful!" shouted Qusay as he saw Adnan stagger. "But Adnan is still standing. This boy has an iron will. Will he be able to keep going?"


    At that critical moment, Yasser seized the opportunity. Quickly, he kicked Adnan hard in the sensitive area between his legs. The kick was so strong and painful that Adnan immediately fell to the ground, clutching his injury in pain. "Ah!" screamed Adnan, writhing in agony. "That''s so vile! How could you try to destroy my future?!" His words were filled with pain and anger, as he felt humiliated by this harsh blow.


    "That was a brutal hit," whispered Qusay. "But it shows that Yasser knows how to seize opportunities. The battle might be nearing its end."


    Yasser, standing over Adnan, looked down at him coldly. "This is a battle, Adnan. There''s no room for mercy here. If you want to win, you have to be ready to face the consequences." His words were sharp, reflecting the reality of the increasingly fierce battle.


    "The battle is over," thought Qusay as he saw Adnan fall. "But the destruction left behind will remain for a long time."


    Just as Team Water began to believe the battle had been decided in their favor, and smiles started to appear on their faces as Team Fire retreated, something unexpected happened. Suddenly, Adnan rose again, as if drawing strength from the scorched earth. His eyes glowed with a dark red hue, as if a new fire had ignited within him.


    "Not yet!" Adnan shouted in a hoarse voice, slowly raising his hand as if preparing to unleash something more powerful than a mere spark. "The battle won''t end this easily!"


    "Oh my God!" shouted Qusay from his position in the air, watching energy gather in Adnan''s hand. "This isn''t just an ordinary glow... this is an evolution of his power! Adnan has reached the second stage of his fire ability!"Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The glow gathering in Adnan''s hand was completely different from the sparks he had been unleashing before. It was denser, brighter, and more deadly. It looked like a small ball of the sun, writhing and contracting between his fingers, waiting for the right moment to be released.


    "Yasser, watch out!" shouted Qusay, but his voice wouldn''t reach them as his ability didn''t allow it.


    With a quick and precise motion, Adnan launched the glow toward Yasser. The throw was perfect, and the glow headed straight for Yasser''s neck at an astonishing speed. The glow was so bright that it blinded everyone momentarily, like a small explosion of light and heat.


    "This will finish him!" Qusay thought in panic. "Yasser won''t be able to dodge this!"


    But before the glow could reach its target, another force intervened. Suddenly, Officer Abbas emerged from the debris and smoke, as if appearing out of nowhere. In a flash, he raised his right hand, and in an instant, his arm transformed into a mass of gleaming metal, like a shield of shimmering scrap. Officer Abbas''s ability, the power of metal, was revealed for the first time in this battle.


    "Enough!" Officer Abbas shouted loudly, as the glow collided with his metallic arm. "This is enough, you troublemakers!"


    But the glow was too powerful. Even Officer Abbas''s metallic arm couldn''t fully block the attack. The glow pierced through the metallic arm, splitting it in two in a flash of light and heat. The sound of metal scraping was so loud that it cracked the air, while shards of metal flew in every direction.


    "Oh my God!" shouted Qusay, watching the metallic arm split in two. "The glow pierced through the metal! This power... is unimaginable!"


    Officer Abbas staggered slightly from the shock but remained standing. His metallic arm, which had gleamed with a silver hue, began to disintegrate and turn into metallic dust, as if melting into the air. As the metallic arm disappeared, so did Officer Abbas''s ability, leaving his human arm bare and severely burned.


    "That''s enough!" Officer Abbas shouted again, looking at his burned arm. "You''re destroying everything around you, and you think that''s acceptable?"


    His words echoed in the air as everyone looked at him in silence, like scolded children. Even Yasser, who had been on the verge of serious injury, began to look as if he felt guilty.


    "This officer sacrificed his arm to save Yasser," observed Qusay, watching Officer Abbas trying to stop the bleeding in his arm. "But the question now is: Will he really be able to stop this war, or will the animosity between the teams continue in secret?"


    "Go home!" ordered Officer Abbas, pointing with his uninjured hand toward the narrow alleys. "And if I hear about any more fights, I won''t hesitate to arrest everyone!"


    The two teams began to disperse slowly, each carrying the scars of the battle. Adnan was still glaring at Yasser with eyes full of anger, but he didn''t dare challenge Officer Abbas after seeing what the glow had done to his arm. Yasser, on the other hand, began to look as if he was reflecting on everything that had happened, as if he suddenly realized the gravity of the situation.


    "The battle is over, but the destruction left behind will remain for a long time," thought Qusay as he watched the teams walk away. "Who will be the real winner in the end? Fire or water? Or is everyone a loser in this battle?"


    As Officer Abbas watched the teams leave, Qusay remained floating in the air, contemplating everything that had happened. "This day was full of lessons," he whispered to himself. "But the bigger question is: Will they learn from them?"


    But Qusay wasn''t ready to end his mission yet. He decided to follow Officer Abbas closely, wondering: "Why did Abbas intervene like that? And what is he hiding behind this sudden intervention?"


    Officer Abbas walked with heavy steps, his burned arm still bleeding slightly, but he was determined to reach his headquarters. He entered the gloomy government building, where the high walls and narrow windows reflected the secretive nature of the work inside. Abbas approached his commander''s office, the high-ranking officer "Salim," who was sitting behind a massive desk, flipping through numerous papers.


    Qusay, who was floating behind Abbas, decided to enter the office unnoticed. He passed easily through the wall, like a shadow no one could see. He stood in a corner of the room, listening intently to every word.


    "I''m back," Abbas said in a tired tone. "The battle was fierce, but I managed to stop it before it turned into a disaster."


    Officer Salim looked up, his sharp gaze piercing through Abbas. "And the damages?" he asked coldly.


    "Major destruction in the square, multiple injuries on both sides," Abbas replied. "But more importantly, I saw something concerning. Adnan, one of Team Fire''s members, is evolving his power. He''s reached a new, more dangerous stage."


    Salim nodded, as if he had expected this. "This is what we feared. These teenagers possess powers they don''t know how to control. If we leave things as they are, the city could turn into a war zone."


    Abbas pulled out a thick file from under his arm and placed it on the desk. "These are the names that need reviewing. It''s time to open the rehabilitation file."


    Salim opened the file and began flipping through the pages, while Qusay moved closer to see the names. "Who are these people?" Qusay wondered to himself. "And what does this rehabilitation file mean?"


    Salim looked at Abbas seriously. "This list includes the most dangerous names. If we don''t act now, we could lose control completely."


    Abbas nodded. "Yes, we need to start immediately. These teenagers need rehabilitation before they destroy themselves and the city."


    Salim took a red pen and began marking some names. "These are the priorities: Adnan, Yasser, Khaled, Ali, Rami, Sami, Ziad. They''re the most dangerous, and we need to start with them."

 11. Familiar Face

    As midnight approached, Qusay returned to his room, feeling a slight weariness envelop his body after a long day of wandering and surveillance. Yet, he knew his body needed real fuel before he could dive back into the world of meditation. He headed to the kitchen with slow steps and began preparing a light but satisfying meal.


    He boiled potatoes until they were tender, then carefully mashed them in a large bowl. He added a pinch of salt, pepper, and cumin, then kneaded the mixture until it formed a cohesive dough. With skilled hands, he shaped the dough into small balls, each about the size of his palm. After that, he seasoned the balls with a blend of traditional Moroccan spices: cumin, turmeric, and a hint of saffron. He then coated them in flour, giving them a crispy outer layer.


    He placed a frying pan on the stove and added olive oil, heating it until it was hot. He began frying the balls one by one until they turned golden and crispy on the outside. The aroma of fried potatoes and fragrant spices filled the kitchen, making Qusay feel even hungrier. Once he finished frying, he placed the balls on a large plate and garnished them with fresh parsley.


    Qusay sat at the kitchen table and slowly enjoyed his meal, savoring every bite. The taste was delicious, and the focus on preparing the food had relaxed him. After finishing, he quickly washed the dishes and decided to step outside.


    He took a small mat and went out to the backyard. The air was cold, and the moon shone brightly in the sky, casting a silvery light on the ground. He lit a small pile of firewood and placed a small teapot on it to prepare tea. As the water boiled, he spread the mat near the fire and sat on it in a crouched position.


    He closed his eyes and began to meditate. He felt the natural energy flowing toward him from all directions: from the cold night, the moonlight, and the burning fire in front of him. He slowly absorbed this energy, as if diving into a sea of calm and power. He no longer felt himself, completely immersed in this exhilarating sensation.


    Qusay remained in this state for hours, absorbing the cold night''s energy and the bright moonlight. As dawn approached, the morning''s energy began to flow as well, mingling with the night''s energy. Qusay felt a strange sensation, as if two opposing forces were clashing within him, yet they harmonized in a peculiar way. He felt more refreshed, as if his body had been filled with new strength.


    But suddenly, he felt a drastic and strange change. The energy he had absorbed began attacking his brain, as if it were fighting within him. He felt an excruciating pain in his head, as if a nail were being driven into his brain. He tried to open his eyes and end the meditation, but the pain was so intense that he couldn''t move. It felt as if his brain was about to explode.


    Before he could do anything, Qusay completely lost consciousness. He fell onto the small mat, which wasn''t enough to accommodate his tall frame.


    Qusay woke up at noon, as the sun''s golden rays rose above the horizon. He felt strangely rested, as if he had slept for hours. He slowly opened his eyes and looked around. The small mat was still beneath him, and the fire had long since gone out, leaving behind warm ashes. The teapot was still beside him, now cold.


    He got up slowly and began to regain his balance. He felt something different inside him, as if a new energy was flowing through his body. He closed his eyes for a moment and tried to sense this energy. He was certain that his ability had evolved, but he also knew he hadn''t yet reached the second stage. Instead, he felt he had reached the peak of the first stage, where his power had become stronger and more focused.


    "I''ve evolved," Qusay whispered to himself as he opened his eyes again. "But I haven''t reached the second stage yet. This is the peak of the first stage."


    He began to recall the pain he had felt before losing consciousness and how the night and morning energies had clashed within him. Perhaps this clash had pushed him to the peak of his current ability. He felt satisfied, but he knew the road ahead was still long.


    After regaining his balance, Qusay went back to the kitchen, bringing the teapot and mat with him. He placed the teapot on the stove and began preparing a quick meal. Once he finished, he headed to his computer. He turned it on and entered the Tor browser to check if the intelligence agency had left him a message. After several minutes of searching, he found nothing. Frustrated, he closed the browser and decided to go to bed to use his power again. This time, he aimed to shift his consciousness to where the girl, Ghadeer, was.


    ---


    Qusay was amazed by Ghadeer''s progress when he found her in a massive military training center located in a remote area in America. She was handling weapons with confidence and strength, as if she was born to be in this place. He felt immense admiration for her, as if she had become a completely different person from what he had seen before. "This girl is incredible," Qusay whispered to himself. "She''s reached the third stage of training. Who knows what she''ll achieve in the future?"


    The facility was surrounded by high walls and watchtowers, with searchlights scanning the area at night. Inside, there were multiple buildings dedicated to training in various military skills. Ghadeer was in the shooting range, standing in line with a group of other trainees, all wearing uniforms and carrying advanced weapons.


    As Qusay observed, he heard Ghadeer speaking with a fellow trainee named "Michael," a tall young man with cold blue eyes. Their conversation shed light on the stages Ghadeer had passed and the difficulty of her current training.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Michael: "Ghadeer, how are you finding the third stage? I heard it''s the hardest so far."


    Ghadeer: (with determination) "Yes, it definitely is. The first stage was just improving my physical fitness¡ªit was tough but straightforward. The second stage was running and general exercises, which were exhausting but fun. But this stage... shooting training, it''s completely different."


    Michael: "What do you mean?"


    Ghadeer: (looking at the weapon in her hand) "In the third stage, it''s not just about accuracy or speed. It''s about absolute focus, controlling every movement, every breath you take. If you make a mistake, even a small one, it could cost you your life on the battlefield."


    Michael: (smiling) "But you make it look easy."


    Ghadeer: (shaking her head) "No, it''s not that simple. Every shot I take has to be perfect. Every target has to be hit with precision. That kind of pressure... it consumes you."


    As Qusay listened to the conversation, he noticed that the current training required extraordinary precision. Ghadeer stood in a steady position, firing at fast-moving targets. Each shot required intense focus, and she showed signs of exhaustion after each round. Qusay saw how Ghadeer was sweating, her hands trembling slightly after each shot. She breathed deeply, as if trying to calm herself. "This training... it''s incredibly exhausting," Qusay whispered to himself. "But she seems determined to succeed."


    Through the dialogue, Qusay understood that Ghadeer had passed two difficult stages before reaching the third. The first stage was improving physical fitness, where she trained for long hours running and lifting weights. The second stage was running and general exercises, which required her to be fast and agile. "It''s been a grueling journey," Qusay whispered. "But she made it here thanks to her determination."


    ---


    Qusay didn''t linger long and shifted his consciousness elsewhere. This time, he wanted to see the progress of the Russian Bear, Daniel. He found Daniel within a massive army divided into groups, each wearing a uniform with a specific emblem on their shoulders. Daniel was part of the "Heroes of the Tundra," and their emblem was a powerful white polar bear standing on a backdrop of cracked ice, with a snowy glimmer around it, symbolizing strength and resilience in the harshest conditions. The bear appeared to be gazing confidently at the horizon, with a strong grip symbolizing control over the harsh environment.


    Each group stood in orderly rows, with a leader standing three steps ahead of the rest. The leader of the "Heroes of the Tundra" was a massive man with harsh Russian features. He stood over two meters tall, his bulging muscles visible even through the thick military uniform. His short blond hair gleamed under the cold sunlight, and his cold blue eyes looked confidently at the soldiers he led. He wore a thick white fur coat, with the polar bear emblem on his shoulder, making him seem like part of the tundra itself. His voice was deep and commanding, delivering orders with confidence and authority.


    Outside, in a vast training ground surrounded by snow, the Russian president stood surrounded by his top generals. He wore a thick black fur coat, with medals gleaming on his chest. He began delivering a passionate speech, his voice echoing in the cold air, rising with determination and power, as if every word pulsed with life:


    "Brave heroes! Today, you stand at the heart of the battle, at the core of history that will be written in letters of blood and courage. This new batch of heroes standing before me is a fresh reinforcement for our great army, which continues to advance steadily and will not stop until we achieve victory. You are the arms that will prove Russia is not just a force on the map, but an invincible power!


    Poltava, the city we seized a month ago, represents the cornerstone of our strategy. It is the launching point that will open the doors to victory. However, despite our control over the city, there are those plotting in the shadows to destabilize us. Intelligence reports indicate that the European Union plans to send a team of their elite-trained heroes in an attempt to retake the city that has long been a symbol of our strength. But I have no doubt that they will not succeed in breaking our resolve.


    Your mission is clear. Your mission is to ensure Poltava remains under our control, a living testament to our unyielding will. Your mission is to prove to the entire world that Russia does not know defeat, that our strength is invincible. You are the heroes who will carry the responsibility of preserving this victory on your shoulders. You will not be mere soldiers in an ordinary army; you are the makers of history, the ones who will write the next chapter in this conflict. With our hands, Poltava will remain ours, and Russia will remain the great power that no one can shake.


    Today, as you head to the battlefield, remember that behind you stands an entire nation, waiting to hear your voice echo across the world, waiting to see determination and resilience in your eyes. We will not allow anyone to disrupt the victory we have achieved, and we will accept nothing less than this city, this land, remaining under our control forever.


    Go forth, heroes, and prepare, for history will immortalize your names, writing about you in golden letters. Move forward now, and let our strength determine the outcome of this battle, and let our resolve remain victorious in every battle to come!"


    The president''s words stirred enthusiasm in the hearts of the soldiers, who stood firmly, their eyes fixed on their leader. Daniel, who stood in the ranks of the "Heroes of the Tundra," seemed more focused than ever. He knew this mission would be a true test of his abilities, and that he would face elite heroes from the European Union.


    Qusay, observing the scene from afar, felt a wave of anxiety creeping over him. "This conflict won''t be easy," he whispered to himself. "Daniel and his group are facing huge challenges. But they seem ready for anything."


    Then Qusay paused for a moment and wondered, "Why is it that every time I come to observe, I find myself in the middle of a speech?! Even the first time I saw the Russian president, he was giving a passionate speech. Is this my luck with speeches? Or do the Russians just love passionate speeches?"


    Qusay continued to observe the scene for a long time, contemplating the developments that might occur in Poltava. He knew these events would be part of a larger conflict, and the whole world would be watching what would happen.


    ---


    Qusay decided to return his consciousness to his own area to examine the situation more closely. He began observing Mount Souna and its surroundings, Douar El Jir, Aghbalou Stadium, Douar Biyata, Douar Bni Bohar, and other places that seemed entirely ordinary. He noticed nothing unusual¡ªjust vast lands, scattered houses, and people busy with their daily tasks of farming, irrigation, and herding. Everything seemed as quiet as always.


    However, despite the apparent calm, he decided to head down to the lower area where the forest was. As he approached, he spotted a familiar face. He moved closer, focusing his eyes more intently. It was that man, the same man from the group he had escaped from on Mount Souna, the group the police had arrested because of the "Chefchaouen Operation."


    Shock painted Qusay''s features as he stared at the man''s face in disbelief: "What? What is he doing here? How?"

 12. The Trash Heap Team

    It was a quiet night in Taynza Forest. The stars twinkled between the branches of the tall trees, and the night breeze gently caressed the leaves along the narrow forest path. Qusay was following a man who seemed tense, walking with quick, cautious steps as if carrying a heavy secret. The forest path twisted and turned, leading to a deep valley surrounded by towering mountains that looked even darker under the faint moonlight. After a long walk, the man reached the valley and paused for a moment to ensure he wasn''t being watched. Then he continued walking alongside the river, which flowed quietly, as if playing a secret melody for nature. Qusay noticed that the man occasionally stopped to check if anyone was following him. But Qusay wasn''t worried; he was walking right beside him, invisible and undetectable thanks to his abilities. After an hour of walking, the man reached a high earthen wall that seemed like part of the hill, but Qusay sensed something strange about this place.


    The man stood by the earthen wall, looking around cautiously. After making sure he was alone, he raised the axe he was carrying and began striking the wall with force. After several blows, a part of the wall broke as if it were thin glass, revealing a small entrance to a dark cave. The man bent down and entered the cave, and Qusay didn''t hesitate to shift his consciousness inside to see what was there. Inside the cave, the surprise was immense. The cave was filled with hundreds of large sacks neatly arranged, each containing cannabis. Cannabis, also known as hashish, is a narcotic plant used for illegal purposes like smuggling and black-market sales. In addition, there were six luxurious handbags placed on the ground next to a colorful rug and a number of scattered blankets and cushions. The man, who looked panicked, rushed to one of the bags and quickly opened it. He began stuffing the money inside into his pockets and the folds of his robe until only a small amount remained. He glanced at what was left with a look of disgust, then hurried out of the cave. Before leaving, he reshaped the earthen wall with a thin layer of dirt using his supernatural ability, "Earth Manipulation," as if nothing had happened. Then he gathered some firewood and began heading back home.


    When the man arrived home, he found his wife in the kitchen preparing dinner. He looked at her with eyes full of worry and love and said, "Do you need any help?" His wife looked at him with suspicion in her eyes and said, "Where have you been? You''ve been gone for hours." He tried to smile and said, "I was gathering some firewood. You know, winter is coming." But his wife wasn''t convinced and said, "Walid, what''s the point of firewood if we''re leaving tomorrow? You know we''re leaving after breakfast, so why gather firewood now?" He looked at her with sad eyes and said, "I love you and Suleiman, and I just want to protect you." But his wife shook her head and said, "I don''t want to be protected from something I don''t understand. I''m scared for you and for Suleiman. You''re hiding something, and I know it."


    Suleiman entered the kitchen and looked at his parents with conflicted eyes. He said, "Mom, Dad, is everything okay?" His father looked at him with loving eyes and said, "Yes, son, everything''s fine. We''re just talking about some things." But Suleiman wasn''t convinced and said, "I feel like something''s going on. You two don''t seem happy." His mother looked at him and said, "Don''t worry, sweetheart, everything will be fine." But Suleiman was torn between truth and illusion, unsure of what to believe.


    The next morning, after the family had breakfast, they decided to leave. They got into the transport vehicle waiting for them. The driver, noticing the tense atmosphere, casually asked, "Is everything okay, Walid?" Walid tried to force a smile and said, "Don''t worry, it''s just a short trip. It''s not like we''re leaving forever." But the driver wasn''t convinced and asked again, "I can''t take you if your luggage contains hashish, you know." Walid reassured him, saying, "Hashish has its own customers. No need to worry."


    The family began talking in the car, but their conversation was vague enough that the driver couldn''t understand. The wife said, "Walid, are you sure this is the right decision?" He looked at her with worried eyes and said, "I know this is hard, but it''s the best for us." Suleiman, sitting in the back seat, said, "I don''t understand. Why do we have to leave?" His father looked at him with loving eyes and said, "Sometimes, we have to leave to start over." But Suleiman was internally conflicted, unsure of what to believe.


    When the car reached a police checkpoint in Dardara, there were no issues at first. The car was moving slowly, as required when passing through checkpoints. But suddenly, the child Suleiman screamed loudly, "Dad!!!" His sharp cry immediately caught the attention of the police. One of the officers signaled the driver to stop. The officer approached the driver first and asked for the car''s papers and license. After confirming everything was in order, the officer asked the child, "What''s wrong, boy? Why are you screaming like that?" The child looked at the officer with wide eyes and said, "My dad''s gone crazy!!!" The father shouted hysterically, "What are you saying, you ungrateful brat?!" The wife began crying and said, "He''s scared of something, and I suspect he''s involved in terrorist activities." The officer drew his gun and pointed it at Walid''s head, saying, "Step out quietly, or you won''t like the consequences." Walid looked at his wife and son with red, angry eyes, while the driver was terrified by what was happening. The entire family, including the driver, was taken to the police station. The driver, furious, thought to himself, "Screw this job. Once I get out of here, I''m never driving anyone again, even if they''re family."


    After witnessing all this, Qusay smiled and said to himself, "This is better. I would''ve felt bad if someone with such a twisted mind escaped the law. Sometimes, I love the law." Qusay returned his consciousness to his body and opened his eyes on his bed, thinking about the treasure the man had left in the cave. Qusay said to himself, "There''s loot waiting for me, but when should I go get it? I need to secure it before someone else does. But what puzzles me is how those fools didn''t expose him. There''s something strange about this. For now, I need to focus on getting that money."


    He got out of bed with confident steps and began his usual routine: he showered to refresh himself, ate a light meal to recharge, and finally went out to absorb energy from the world around him, ready to face what awaited him in the quiet night.Stolen novel; please report.


    After finishing his routine, Qusay closed his eyes and shifted his consciousness to Adnan. He found him in the middle of a heated verbal argument with his mother, who was standing in the center of the room, waving a police report in her hand. Her voice was raised in anger: "Adnan! How did we get to this point? The police report says they''re going to rehabilitate you! Didn''t you learn from the last times?!"


    Adnan, who was standing by the table, tried to calm her down, his voice defensive: "Mom, you don''t understand! The problem isn''t me, it''s those troublemakers who took over the team''s training ground! They were destroying property, and I had to step in to protect what''s ours!"


    His mother shook her head angrily, her eyes flashing with frustration: "And did you have to go that far? You always act without thinking, and the result is that you''re being punished again!"


    Before Adnan could respond, the doorbell rang. Officer Abbas was standing at the door, his face serious and stern. He looked at Adnan and said in a formal tone, "It''s time, Adnan. You need to come with me to the rehabilitation center. Let''s get this over with quickly."


    Adnan glanced at his mother for a moment, as if searching for support or understanding, but she turned her face away, tears welling up in her eyes. He took a deep breath, then turned to Officer Abbas and said, "Alright, let''s get this over with."


    Adnan walked out of the house, a sense of injustice filling his chest, while Qusay watched the scene from afar, wondering if he should continue observing Adnan or return to focus on his own mission of securing the treasure in the cave. But he decided to keep watching.


    Officer Abbas drove Adnan to an old building that resembled a school, its faded and worn appearance a testament to the many years it had witnessed similar events. Upon arrival, Abbas handed the report to the officer standing at the door and introduced Adnan, saying, "This is Adnan. He needs to undergo rehabilitation as per the report."


    After that, Abbas left Adnan with the officer and drove away, leaving the young man to face his fate inside the building. The other officer, who seemed strict and clear in his instructions, ordered Adnan to leave anything he was carrying at the door, warning him, "If we find out you''ve brought anything prohibited, you''ll face punishment as if you were a legal adult."


    Qusay noticed the look of anxiety on Adnan''s face. "It seems Adnan is starting to realize the gravity of the situation he''s in. But he''s still trying to appear calm... impressive, though not always practical."


    Adnan, who wasn''t carrying anything prohibited, obeyed the orders and entered the building, where he found himself face-to-face with familiar figures from his recent past.


    Yasser, Khaled, Ali, Rami, Sami, and Ziad were all there, each wearing a different expression. Some seemed happy to see Adnan, while others looked as if they were preparing for another confrontation.


    Qusay commented, "How strange! All of them here? Yasser, Khaled, Ali... his old enemies. This place is going to be a new battlefield, but this time without physical fights. I''ll watch how Adnan handles this situation."


    Rami, who was closest to Adnan, approached him with a slight smile: "Adnan, you finally made it! I knew you''d be here sooner or later."


    Adnan smiled back, though it was tinged with bitterness: "Yeah, it seems we''re all here because of that stupid fight."


    Sami and Ziad also approached, as if forming a small group of allies within this strange place. But the sharp glances coming from Yasser, Khaled, and Ali didn''t go unnoticed by Adnan. Yasser, who was Adnan''s arch-nemesis, took a step forward and said sarcastically, "Well, well, look who''s here! The hero has arrived to join the party!"


    Adnan didn''t respond to the provocation, but he could feel the tension in the air thickening. Khaled and Ali stood behind Yasser, as if ready for anything that might happen.


    The officer who was monitoring the situation interrupted the silence with his stern voice: "Enough! You''re here for rehabilitation, not to continue your fights. Any trouble, and you''ll face harsher punishments. Understood?"


    Suddenly, the atmosphere in the yard changed, and an eerie silence fell as the sound of heavy, deliberate footsteps approached. Each step echoed like the beat of war drums, making the ground tremble slightly. Then, Officer Salim appeared. His tall frame, standing at 1.83 meters, looked like a mountain walking with confidence, and his 88-kilogram build added to his imposing presence. His short, neatly combed gray hair reflected his unwavering discipline, while his dark brown eyes radiated intelligence and authority, as if they could pierce through any lie or disguise.


    Qusay felt a growing interest. "This man... Salim. A leader, no doubt. His way of speaking earlier (when he handed the rehabilitation report to Abbas) and his presence now command respect even from a distance. Adnan will need all his wits to deal with this man."


    Salim stood before them, his royal blue uniform gleaming under the sunlight, his favorite color reflecting his authority and dignity. His booming voice rang out, fast and confident, filled with authority and sternness: "Welcome, trash heap! From today, you''re officially part of a team called ''The Trash Heap Team,'' until you prove otherwise. Is that clear?"


    His words were like a sword, cutting through any hope they had of leniency or slack. As soon as he finished speaking, they had no choice but to respond in unison: "Yes, sir!"


    Qusay chuckled to himself: "Trash Heap Team? A fitting name for a bunch of troublemakers."


    Officer Salim continued, his voice rising slightly, as if reminding them of his famous saying: "Security doesn''t happen by chance." Then he added, "I''ll be overseeing your rehabilitation, to elevate you from a trash heap to... trash! Is that clear?"


    Once again, they responded in unison, as if they had been trained beforehand: "Understood, sir!"


    Then Officer Salim pointed to the field with a sharp gaze that missed nothing: "Now, I want you to use your special abilities on the field until you pass out. Anyone who doesn''t lose consciousness gets no dinner. As for lunch... there''s no such thing for you here today."


    They all responded in unison: "Understood, sir!"


    Qusay commented, "This is harsh training... but effective. Adnan will have to push his abilities to the limit. I''ll watch how he handles this challenge."


    The recruits began moving toward the field, each carrying a mix of fear and determination within them. Officer Salim stood watching them with his piercing eyes, as if he knew this was only the beginning of even tougher tests awaiting them. He believed that "every detail matters," and that''s why he tolerated no mistakes, big or small.


    Salim wasn''t just an officer; he was a symbol of discipline and responsibility. Anyone standing before him felt the weight of that responsibility, as if facing a historical figure who would not be forgotten.


    Qusay concluded that Salim was "a complex character, combining strength and discipline, but perhaps lacking flexibility. He''s the right man to enforce order, but he might not be the best at helping someone like Adnan change his path."


    Qusay decided to keep a close eye on Salim, especially in how he dealt with Adnan. "I''ll watch how he handles Adnan specifically. If Salim can reach Adnan''s heart and change something in him, I''ll admit he''s more than just an officer... he''ll be a true mentor."

 13. Tundra Heroes: The First Battle

    Qusay''s consciousness shifted to Daniel this time, finding him on a dirt road stretching across vast plains covered in golden grass under a clear August sky. The weather was hot, but a gentle breeze softened the heat of the sun shining brightly on the ground. Daniel, an 18-year-old young man, was walking with his unit, the "Tundra Heroes," advancing toward Poltava as reinforcements for the Russian army already controlling the area. This was his first real mission, and he felt visibly anxious, though he tried to hide it. The heavy armored vehicles moved slowly, leaving clouds of dust in their wake, while strong horses pulled sleds loaded with supplies. The new faces in the unit, including Daniel, showed signs of unease and hesitation, especially as they approached an area marked by intense clashes.


    Daniel walked beside one of the vehicles, trying to appear confident, but he noticed Ivan, another newcomer to the unit, who seemed even more nervous. Ivan was tall but slender, his short black hair peeking out from under his helmet. He approached Daniel and whispered, "Daniel, do you think we''ll face heavy resistance in Poltava? I heard the European Union is sending elite fighters to retake the area..." Daniel looked at him, trying to sound reassuring despite his inner turmoil: "Don¡¯t worry, Ivan. We¡¯re the ''Tundra Heroes,'' and we have a leader like Captain Boris. He won¡¯t let anything stand in our way. Poltava is under our control, and we¡¯re here to reinforce the defenses. Just stay calm and follow orders."


    From a distance, Sergei overheard part of the conversation and approached, laughing: "Ivan, if you¡¯re scared now, what will you do when you face the enemy head-on? Maybe you should learn from Olga¡ªshe¡¯s not even afraid of polar bears!" Olga, who was walking on the other side, quickly turned to him and said dryly, "Sergei, if you put half the energy you waste on jokes into focusing on your mission, we¡¯d be better off. Poltava isn¡¯t a picnic, and I don¡¯t want to lose anyone else to stupidity." Sergei fell silent for a moment, then whispered to Daniel, "You know, sometimes I think Olga scares me more than the enemy." Daniel chuckled softly and said, "She¡¯s just trying to keep everyone alive. Let her be."


    Olga was a 17-year-old girl, sturdy with sharp gray eyes. She was one of the veterans in the unit but carried the trauma of losing her close friend in a previous battle. She often spoke bluntly but had a hidden leadership quality. Sergei, on the other hand, was a 19-year-old, short but stocky, with a light beard covering his chin. He was naturally cheerful, always trying to lighten the mood with jokes, but behind his laughter lay a deep fear of the unknown.


    Captain Boris, who was walking at the front, suddenly turned and looked at the soldiers with his cold blue eyes. In a deep voice, he said, "Prepare yourselves. We¡¯re five kilometers from Poltava. There¡¯s no room for hesitation now. Our mission is to reinforce the defenses and support the troops already there. Remember, we¡¯re the ''Tundra Heroes,'' and nothing will stop us." His words were enough to refocus the anxious faces, but they also heightened the tension. Daniel glanced at Ivan, who looked pale, and said, "Stay close to me. You¡¯ll be fine." Olga, who overheard the comment, muttered to herself, "Victory or death... always the same choices."


    When the team reached the outskirts of Poltava, the city was in chaos. The sounds of explosions and gunfire filled the air, and thick smoke rose from burning buildings. The Russian soldiers defending the city were in retreat, trying to hold their ground against a fierce and sudden Ukrainian attack. The Ukrainian forces, backed by elite fighters, were advancing rapidly, exploiting the chaos to strengthen their positions.


    Captain Boris stood on a small hill overlooking the city. His cold blue eyes gleamed with confidence as he surveyed the battlefield. He raised his hand, and the unit came to an abrupt halt. "This is the moment to show our strength. Tundra Heroes, prepare to engage!" His deep voice cut through the air like thunder, filling everyone with a surge of energy and determination.


    In this war, supernatural abilities weren¡¯t exclusive to the ''Tundra Heroes.'' Every soldier on the battlefield, whether Russian or Ukrainian, possessed some kind of supernatural power. However, these abilities were in their early stages and mostly common (abilities were categorized as: Common¡ª90% of humans; Uncommon¡ª9%; Rare¡ª0.6%; Legendary). They were weak and not significantly impactful. Thus, both armies still relied primarily on advanced weapons and traditional military tactics, with supernatural abilities serving only as limited auxiliary tools.


    But the ''Tundra Heroes'' were different. Their abilities were more advanced, with some even being rare or legendary. Captain Boris, for example, despite having a common ability, had reached the second stage of his ice power, allowing him to create a stronger frost that affected a larger area. Ivan, whose ability to turn invisible was rare, had progressed from one second in the first stage (which might seem weak but could make a huge difference in critical moments if used wisely) to a full minute in the second stage. As for Daniel, he possessed a unique legendary ability (Legendary abilities were one-of-a-kind in the world, meaning no one else had them, or at least that¡¯s what humans believed): the power to grow into a giant. These superior abilities made the ''Tundra Heroes'' a formidable force on the battlefield, though they still relied on advanced weapons to secure victory. Sergei and Olga, meanwhile, were in the first stage of their common abilities, but they had mastered them well to complement the team¡¯s coordination.


    The first to enter the battle was Captain Boris. He raised his hands, and in an instant, the temperature around him dropped sharply. A thin layer of frost formed on the ground, making it extremely slippery. The Ukrainian forces advancing quickly began to lose their footing, while the Russian soldiers, who had been warned beforehand, moved forward cautiously. Boris shouted, "This land is tundra, and here we are the strongest!"


    Qusay muttered to himself as he watched the scene, "Captain Boris seems like a true leader, but I wonder what¡¯s going through his mind. Is he really that confident, or is he hiding his fears for the sake of his team? Daniel seems eager, but I see hesitation in his steps. He knows this isn¡¯t a game."


    After Boris created the frost, Olga was ready. She raised her hands, and a moderate wind began to blow. The wind was enough to push the enemies back and disorient them but not strong enough to create a full-blown storm. Olga shouted, "No one can stand against the winds of the tundra!"


    As the wind worked, Sergei moved forward. His body began to partially turn to stone, making him more durable and stronger, though he hadn¡¯t reached full transformation. He ran quickly, smashing through some barriers and light vehicles. Enemies who tried to shoot at him found that bullets affected him but weren¡¯t enough to stop him. Sergei laughed loudly, "Is that all you¡¯ve got?!"Stolen novel; please report.


    While Sergei caused chaos among the enemy ranks, Ivan moved cautiously. His ability to turn invisible made him undetectable for only one minute. He used that minute to sneak behind enemy lines and blow up a small supply depot. After reappearing, he said confidently, "One minute is enough to make a difference!"


    Finally, it was Daniel¡¯s turn. His heart pounded, but he took a deep breath and began to grow. Within seconds, he reached about 2.7 meters tall (roughly 1.5 times his normal height). His massive size was enough to confuse the enemies and boost the morale of the Russian soldiers. Daniel grabbed a light Ukrainian vehicle and effortlessly threw it aside. "Poltava is under our protection!" he shouted.


    Qusay, who was closely observing Daniel, reflected on his legendary ability. "Daniel looks like a giant, but I see exhaustion in his eyes. This legendary ability drains his energy quickly. How long can he hold on? Ivan, on the other hand, uses his minute of invisibility wisely. He knows that small window can make all the difference."


    Captain Boris directed the team with clear and firm commands. "Olga, use the wind to protect the Russian soldiers! Sergei, breach their front lines carefully! Ivan, use your invisibility to disrupt their supply lines! Daniel, target the light vehicles!" The team worked in perfect coordination, each strength complementing the other. The frost Boris created made the ground slippery, giving Olga the chance to use her wind to push the enemies back.


    Daniel continued his advance amid the chaos, trying to maintain his balance on the slippery frost-covered ground. With every step, he heard the sounds of explosions growing closer. He looked around and saw Sergei smashing through another barrier with his stone fist, while Olga controlled the wind with force, constantly throwing the enemy soldiers off balance.


    On the other side, Captain Boris stood and quickly assessed the situation. He noticed a large gathering of Ukrainian forces on the western side of the city and gave orders over the radio:


    "Daniel, head west and start attacking the heavy vehicles. Sergei, support Daniel from the east. Olga, maintain the wind and prevent any advance from the center. Ivan, move behind their lines and monitor their movements."


    Everyone responded in unison: "Under your command, Captain!"


    Daniel moved with large strides until he reached the designated spot. He saw several heavy vehicles approaching the Russian front lines. Without hesitation, he raised his hand and slammed the ground, creating a powerful tremor that momentarily halted the vehicles. The Russian soldiers seized the moment to open fire and stop the enemy advance.


    From a distance, Olga watched the battle, continuing to control the wind and prevent the enemies from getting closer. She whispered to herself, "We must hold on... I won¡¯t allow anyone else to be lost."


    As the battle raged on, the Ukrainian forces began to realize that the "Tundra Heroes" weren¡¯t ordinary soldiers. Although their supernatural abilities were limited and relatively weak, their coordination was deadly. Each team member relied on the others to cover their weaknesses and enhance their strengths.


    Daniel, still enlarged to his giant size, began to feel the strain. His ability to grow consumed his energy rapidly, and he knew he couldn¡¯t maintain this size for long. He glanced at Sergei, who was fighting with his stone fist, and signaled to him quickly. Sergei understood immediately and began moving toward Daniel to cover him.


    "Daniel, return to your normal size! You can¡¯t keep this up!" Sergei shouted as he smashed through another barrier.


    Daniel took a deep breath and began shrinking back to his normal size. Once he returned to his original form, he felt utterly exhausted, but there was no time to rest. He picked up his rifle and joined the Russian soldiers fighting fiercely.


    Olga, still controlling the wind, noticed that the Ukrainian forces were adapting to their tactics. The wind that had been pushing them back no longer had the same effect. She shouted to Captain Boris, "Captain, they¡¯re adapting! We need something new!"


    Captain Boris, standing on the hill, realized the situation required a change in strategy. He looked at Ivan, who was cautiously moving behind enemy lines, and gave him a quick signal. Ivan understood immediately and began sneaking toward another supply depot.


    "Ivan, target their command post! If you can disrupt their command, we¡¯ll throw them into chaos!" Boris shouted over the radio.


    Ivan, relying on his limited invisibility, moved carefully. His ability to disappear for only one minute was restrictive, but he knew that minute could change the course of the battle. When he reached the Ukrainian command post, he used his minute of invisibility to plant small explosives in the right spots. As soon as he reappeared, he fired at the explosives, causing a large explosion that destroyed part of the command post.


    The explosion caused chaos among the Ukrainian ranks, giving the "Tundra Heroes" the chance to deliver a decisive blow. Captain Boris seized the moment and gave the final order: "This is the moment! Advance now!"


    Daniel, who had regained some energy, joined Sergei in the frontal assault. Olga increased the strength of her wind, making it difficult for the enemies to advance. Ivan, who had returned to their lines, began firing accurately at the Ukrainian soldiers trying to regroup.


    After hours of intense fighting, the Ukrainian forces began to retreat. The chaos caused by the "Tundra Heroes" was too much for them. Captain Boris stood on the hill, watching the enemy retreat with his cold blue eyes.


    "We did it..." Daniel whispered, feeling utterly exhausted.


    Olga, still controlling the wind, took a deep breath and finally lowered her hands. "Yes, we did it. But the battle isn¡¯t over."


    Sergei, still laughing despite his fatigue, said, "I think we¡¯re going to need a long rest after this."


    Captain Boris turned to his team and said in his deep voice, "You fought bravely today. But remember, this isn¡¯t the end of the war. Prepare yourselves, because the battles ahead will be tougher."


    Daniel looked at Ivan, who was still pale but seemed more confident. "You were amazing back there, Ivan. That minute of invisibility changed the course of the battle."


    Ivan smiled weakly and said, "Thanks, Daniel. You were incredible too."


    Olga, watching them from a distance, smiled slightly. "We were a good team today. But we need to stay alert."


    Sergei laughed and said, "Olga, you¡¯re always so serious. But I think we deserve some rest."


    Captain Boris looked at his team and said, "Rest now. But remember, the war isn¡¯t over. And the Tundra Heroes will never surrender."


    As the sun began to set, the "Tundra Heroes" paused for a moment to catch their breath. The battle was over, but the war was still ongoing. They knew they would face more challenges in the days to come. But they were ready to fight, because they were the "Tundra Heroes," and nothing would stop them.


    Qusay reflected quietly, "Boris leads, Daniel endures, Ivan disappears, Sergei laughs, and Olga protects. Each of them carries a secret, and each of them pays a price. War reveals little but hides much."


    Then, without adding more, Qusay shifted his consciousness away from the battlefield. He decided to direct his awareness toward a stream, wondering what he would find there. The stream had always been another mystery in his world, and he felt it was time to see how far it had come in its journey.

 14. The Ministers Shadow: Surveillance in the Shadows

    Qusay quickly shifted his consciousness to America, specifically to an open shooting range. This time, the goal was clear: to complete the third stage of basic training. Here, in this place, all the new recruits of the American teams¡ª"Wings of Freedom," "Shadow Guardians," "Storm Heroes," and "Future Protectors"¡ªwere required to pass this test.


    In the middle of the range stood Ghadeer, the Jordanian girl with shiny, thick brown hair that cascaded freely around her face and gently reached her shoulders, giving her a natural beauty and grace. Her enchanting green eyes sparkled in the sunlight, like two gems radiating irresistible charm. She confidently held an XM4 rifle, wearing the standard military uniform for trainees. Beside her stood Michael, the blond young man with cold blue eyes, who seemed completely serious and focused.


    "Do you think the XM4 will be enough for the first challenge?" Ghadeer asked in a calm voice, though it carried a hidden challenge.


    Michael turned his head toward her and smiled faintly. "The XM4 is good for speed, but I prefer the FN SCAR for challenges that require higher precision. It''s more stable for medium-range shots."


    "But the FN SCAR is heavier, and that might affect your speed when moving between positions," Ghadeer quickly retorted, as if she had been waiting for this exact point.


    "True, but I think sacrificing some speed for accuracy will be beneficial, especially if the targets are well-hidden," Michael replied while carefully inspecting his rifle.


    "What about snipers?" Ghadeer asked, trying to provoke him a little. "Will you use the Barrett M82?"


    Michael laughed. "The Barrett M82 is powerful, but it''s too heavy. I''ll go with the CheyTac Intervention. It''s more accurate at long ranges and lighter."


    "You always prefer precision over power, don''t you?" Ghadeer said with a slight smile.


    "And you always prefer speed over everything," Michael shot back with a challenging tone.


    Before Ghadeer could respond, their conversation was cut off by the voice of their instructor, Sergeant First Class Johnson, who barked his usual command: "Line up, recruits!"


    Everyone quickly gathered, and Sergeant Johnson stood in front of them, his sharp gaze scanning the rows. "Tomorrow," he began in a loud, confident voice, "we''ll conduct the first real shooting test. This isn''t just regular training. This is where you prove you deserve to be here. Those who succeed tomorrow will move directly to the fourth stage of basic training. And this isn''t just for your benefit, but for your teams as well. The faster the recruits finish, the faster the teams can be fully mobilized. So tomorrow, show me what you''re made of. Show me your shooting skills, and your supernatural abilities too. Don''t hesitate to use them, because this is where you''ll truly be tested."


    Sergeant Johnson then went on to explain the four challenges:


    Rapid Fire Skills: A test of speed and accuracy using pistols and assault rifles to hit hidden targets while quickly moving between positions.


    Heavy Strike Force: A test of precision using sniper rifles and grenade launchers, focusing on hitting distant targets and completing the mission within a set time.


    Combat Field Race: A race combining physical strength and speed, where participants face high obstacles, crawl under wires, carry heavy weights, and drag dummy casualties.


    Tactical Engagement and Rescue: A simulated combat scenario inside a building, requiring planning, stealth, and tactical action to rescue a hostage and eliminate enemy targets without mistakes.


    "The challenge begins at dawn tomorrow," Sergeant Johnson continued. "You have two days to complete all challenges. There will be 10 supervising officers and 20 soldiers responsible for setting up the weapons and resetting the courses. The total points system is 300, and the minimum to qualify is 200 points. Any violation of safety rules will result in immediate disqualification. The top three competitors will receive honorary awards."


    After Sergeant Johnson finished his speech, everyone returned to their daily training. Ghadeer and Michael continued their conversation, this time about the upcoming challenges.


    "I think the third challenge will be the hardest," Michael said as he inspected his pistol.


    "Why?" Ghadeer asked while adjusting her grip on her rifle.


    "Because it requires a lot of physical strength, and I''m not sure everyone is ready for that," Michael replied.


    "I think the fourth challenge will be the hardest," Ghadeer said. "Planning and stealth require a lot of focus, and even a small mistake could cost us points."


    "Let''s see who''s right," Michael said with a challenging smile.


    "Let''s see," Ghadeer replied with a similar smile.


    The recruits returned to their routine training. Ghadeer and Michael joined a group of trainees practicing rapid-fire shooting with pistols. The sound of gunfire filled the air as the instructors gave their final instructions before the decisive test day.


    Meanwhile, back at his small home in Douar El Jir, Qusay returned from his day of wandering and observing. He felt slightly fatigued after a long day of wandering and observation. He made a simple meal of grilled chicken, vegetables, and rice. As he ate, his thoughts drifted to the challenges awaiting Ghadeer and Michael the next day, and he felt a surge of excitement to see how their supernatural abilities would help them succeed.


    After finishing his meal, he went to his bedroom. He turned on his computer and accessed the dark web. He opened his encrypted email, expecting a message from ShadowX. Sure enough, a new message was waiting in his inbox.


    He opened the message quickly, and his eyes widened as he read its contents:


    From: ShadowX


    To: @##HW


    Subject: Begin the First Mission


    "Dear @##HW,


    We hope you are well. Please send your crypto wallet address as soon as possible so we can transfer the agreed amount in Monero (XMR) to ensure the highest level of confidentiality.


    For your first mission, we have preliminary information suggesting that Justice Minister Abdul Malik may be indirectly involved in the recent Shefshauen incident. We need you to gather detailed information about this connection and prepare a comprehensive report, including every minor detail.


    We are counting on you. Be cautious, and remember: leave no trace.


    ShadowX."


    Qusay closed the message, replied with his crypto wallet address, and confirmed his readiness to begin the mission. Feeling the weight of the task, he couldn''t imagine that a high-profile figure like the Justice Minister could be involved in such an incident. He let out a deep sigh and went outside to absorb the energy of the sunset. He spent two hours meditating before returning inside, first checking his computer to investigate the Minister. He studied his features carefully and memorized his image clearly. Then he went to bed, his body falling asleep while his consciousness remained focused on the Minister''s image, allowing him to shift his awareness directly to where the Minister was.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    Qusay found himself in Justice Minister Abdul Malik''s home, a luxurious villa in one of the capital''s most upscale neighborhoods. The house combined elegance and modernity, with a stone facade and large windows. The main gate, made of ornate iron, opened automatically, leading to a spacious hall with a crystal chandelier and luxurious leather furniture. The library was filled with rare books and concealed a secret meeting room equipped with the latest technology. The backyard featured a fountain and a large swimming pool, while the bedrooms, especially the master suite, exuded opulence with a carved wooden bed and a jacuzzi.


    Abdul Malik himself was a man in his fifties, tall, with an athletic build he maintained regularly. His black hair, streaked with gray, gave him a distinguished appearance, while his sharp brown eyes reflected intelligence and determination. He always wore custom-tailored suits, reflecting his attention to elegance. His personality was calm but strong, with a commanding presence that drew attention wherever he went. Known for his political shrewdness and long-term planning, he was an influential figure in power circles.


    Qusay closely observed the Justice Minister''s routine, trying to catch anything suspicious. But what he noticed was an ordinary daily routine, albeit with a touch of elegance and organization that surpassed that of an average person. Abdul Malik seemed highly disciplined, clearly separating his work from his personal life. Once he entered his home, it was as if he left all work-related concerns behind.


    The Minister''s evening began with a quiet dinner with his family, where he sat with his wife and daughter in the luxurious dining room. The conversation was light and comfortable, filled with laughter and family bonding. After dinner, he spent some time in the library, reading a book while sipping green tea. Then he joined his family in the living room to watch a movie before bidding them goodnight and heading to his bedroom at 10 PM.


    Qusay didn''t notice anything strange or suspicious. The Minister seemed like an ordinary person at home, far from the political complexities surrounding him at work. Even his personal guards appeared relaxed, as if they knew this place was completely safe.


    By midnight, after confirming the Minister was asleep, Qusay let out a long sigh of exhaustion. He had spent the entire night observing without finding any evidence linking the Minister to the Shefshauen incident. He felt frustrated but knew this was part of the job. He decided to return his consciousness to his home and take a break, enjoying a game of "Legend Online," which he hadn''t touched in nearly nine months.


    Qusay played "Legend Online" with intense focus, immersed in the virtual world until the dawn sun began to rise outside his window. He looked at the clock and realized he had spent the entire night gaming. He suddenly remembered he was supposed to watch the shooting challenges in Washington, but then he paused: dawn in Washington wouldn''t start for another six hours, meaning it would be noon in his local time.


    After a moment of hesitation, Qusay decided to make better use of this extra time. Instead of waiting, he chose to return to observing Justice Minister Abdul Malik. Perhaps there was a chance to catch something during the early morning hours when everyone was less cautious.


    Qusay shifted his consciousness back to the Minister''s home, where the personal guards were still in their positions but seemed more relaxed than the previous night. The house was quiet, with dim light coming from some windows. Qusay focused on the Minister''s bedroom, where he noticed Abdul Malik had woken up early, as was his usual morning routine.


    The Minister began his day with light exercises in the backyard, accompanied by his personal dog. These exercises, which included light jogging and stretching, lasted no more than twenty minutes. After finishing, Abdul Malik went straight to his private bathroom to shower. The warm water seemed to wash away all traces of fatigue as he used luxurious personal care products that reflected his refined taste. After showering, he put on a soft robe and moved to the dining room for a light breakfast with his family, which lasted about half an hour. Qusay noticed that Abdul Malik read the morning newspapers while sipping his coffee, but he didn''t spot anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. All these morning scenes, from the exercises to the shower and breakfast, took no more than an hour.


    In the last half hour, the Minister began preparing for his workday. He put on an elegant formal suit, tied a dark-colored tie, and carried a small briefcase containing his personal documents. He then headed to his luxurious car, which was waiting for him outside with a private driver. By 7:55 AM, Abdul Malik had arrived at the Ministry of Justice building, where he stood confidently in front of the main gate, ready to start his workday.


    Qusay wasn''t entirely sure about the nature of the Minister''s work inside the building. Was it an official office? A courtroom? Or a private office in the Ministry of Justice? He decided not to speculate too much and chose to observe the Minister closely. Qusay felt frustrated again, as the Minister seemed to completely separate his work and personal life, leaving no room for suspicion. But he knew his mission required patience, and the truth might be hidden in the smallest details. Qusay decided to follow the Minister further, hoping to find more clues.


    As the Minister entered the building, the atmosphere around him seemed to change. Employees and guards stood at attention, exchanging respectful greetings. Even those engrossed in their work paused for a moment to glance at him with reverence. An aura of dignity and authority surrounded him, making everyone around him feel the weight of his position. Every step he took exuded confidence and power, as if the entire building breathed in sync with his movements.


    Abdul Malik entered his spacious office, which reflected a high level of taste in design. The walls were paneled with dark mahogany, adorned with classical art pieces. His large desk, made of the same wood, held a neatly arranged stack of papers, a modern computer, and a large screen. In one corner of the room, there was a luxurious leather sofa and a small coffee table, giving the impression that this office was not just a place for work but also for thinking and relaxation.


    Qusay decided to explore the office. He looked at the papers scattered on the desk, trying to read the prominent ones without being able to touch anything. He noticed some headings referring to new legislative projects, along with reports on major criminal cases. There was also a small handwritten note by the Minister, but it was too unclear to fully understand its content.


    Once Abdul Malik settled into his office, he began his workday with remarkable efficiency. His hands moved swiftly between the papers on his desk, reading quickly and signing with a clear, decisive hand. Each document passed through his fingers like part of a complex machine working smoothly. The papers varied: reports on criminal cases, new legislative projects, and official correspondence with senior officials. Everything was done with speed and precision, reflecting years of experience in managing affairs skillfully.


    Qusay, still in his conscious state, tried to take advantage of the opportunity to read every document the Minister handled. He looked at the main headings and tried to catch any important details. But the Minister''s speed in reading and signing outpaced Qusay''s ability to keep up. Every time he tried to focus on a specific document, the Minister had already moved on to the next. His hands moved like lightning, as if he were working on a clock that never stopped.


    At one point, Qusay noticed a document that seemed more important than the others. It bore a "Top Secret" stamp, and the heading he managed to glimpse was written in bold: "Project Atlas: Restructuring the Judicial System." But before he could read any further details, the Minister flipped the page and began signing. Qusay tried to catch some key words, like "radical reforms" and "international cooperation," but the Minister''s speed made it nearly impossible. He felt frustrated but knew this was the nature of dealing with someone like Abdul Malik, who left no room for hesitation or slowness.


    And so, Qusay spent three full hours trying to keep up with the Minister''s rapid reading, observing every swift and decisive movement. But in the end, he surrendered to the Minister''s extraordinary ability to accomplish tasks, which seemed tireless. It appeared that Abdul Malik was also nearing the end of the remaining paperwork for the day. He ordered his final coffee from his assistant, a clear sign that the intense workday was almost over.


    Qusay decided it was time to return to his room. He got up quickly, realizing he needed to hurry to follow the shooting challenges in Washington. He took a quick shower, then headed to the kitchen and fried three eggs, eating them quickly as he mentally and physically prepared for what was coming. He lay on the couch for a while, absorbing some energy for half an hour, trying to regain his focus and strength.


    After that, he used his special ability again, shifting his consciousness to Washington, where the shooting challenges were about to begin. Qusay was filled with excitement, eager to see the skills and abilities of the recruits in this test that could be a gateway to a new stage in their lives.