Chapter 256

>
> *If Spectre won't tell me about Conversion Technology...
> Then I'll just have to find out on my own.*
>
>
>
>

*- Seralock Holmes*

This is the 256th episode of *unORDINARY*.

#### 8:30 AM

Remi tells the tour group to keep in touch and to reconvene in the same spot at noon for lunch before dismissing them. Arlo then asks her how she plans to spend the day, hoping that she'll allow him to accompany her. She tells him that she promised to go dress shopping with Elaine and Aurielle, wondering if he'll change his mind. Arlo's face slightly droops, but he still plans on joining, much to the delight of the other girls. While Elaine leads the way, Remi eyes Arlo with suspicion and concern.

### NXGen Arcwood Facility

#### 8:42 AM

Seraphina binds the unconscious Kelley to a chair and takes his ID card, confident that he'll be out long enough for her to complete her mission. With 14 minutes remaining for the download, Seraphina decides to make the most of her time and get the answers Spectre won't give her. She looks through the files in the "Conversion Technology" folder. After parsing over a log, she determines that the project's aim is to swap a person's ability for a different one. So far, only high-tiers are able to undergo the process. Seraphina wonders why Spectre would want a project that's not even halfway done. Perhaps to use on her and the other collected high-tiers? Or maybe they think they can finish it sooner? Those questions get put aside when a folder marked "Patient Jane" grabs Seraphina's attention. Within is an overview of the most powerful person Seraphina's ever laid eyes on at level 9.1. Jane's ability is listed as Channel Master, but no details are given. Seraphina's best guess is that it's the backbone of NXGen's research on auras. But Jane's location isn't disclosed even to the likes of Kelley. The snooping must come to an end for now, as the extraction process has finally been completed. Seraphina ejects the drive and signals the rest of the team. *Tech* overrides the security cameras, giving Seraphina the chance to exit the room undetected.

#### 9:10 AM

Back in the safe zone, Stacey congratulates "Meryl" on a job well done. Just one more task and the mission would be a complete success. Seraphina puts her best foot forward.

### Rowden Hill

#### 9:15 AM

The hiking group stops finally arrives at the base of what looks like a mountain range. Most members are less enthused than the athletic Blyke, who sees it as fun. John has no opinion on the exercise he faces, as his focus is on Terrence. John knows not to underestimate the danger of an individual who managed to fly under everybody's radar for damn-near two years. The mole in question is aware of the eyes boring into him, and keeps his distance.

### NXGen Arcwood Facility

#### 9:17 AM

In another safe zone, preparations to go to the next room are underway. Stacey believes that it will be easier this time around, as Kelley's ID will allow Seraphina to open the door herself. The timing is the tricky part, as Seraphina will need to power down to allow for the card scanner to read the card. Tech will be able to override the cameras again *just* long enough for that to happen. Other than that, Seraphina believes that she'll be in and out before the door closes, moving too fast to be seen on security footage. As soon as Rowden gives her the go ahead, Seraphina uses Time Manipulation and runs from the closet to the lab entrance. She unlocks the door without incident, and steps inside. After a quick survey of the lab, she goes to where the samples are stored. She finds the one she's looking for, and reaches out for it. But her vision blurs, and a sudden pain causes her to lose her concentration. She beings moving in real time, and gets trapped in the room. Even worse, she appears on the security cameras in real time, with Rowden only able to look on from the van. It is only when the alarm sounds and red lights start flashing that Seraphina realizes her ability is failing her.

## Appearing Characters

* Arlo
* Elaine
* Remi
* John
* Dylan
* ***Aurielle***
* Seraphina/"Meyrl"
* Kelley
* Jane (picture)
* *Communicator*
* *Tech*
* "Agent Rowden"
* "Stacey"
* Roland
* Terrence
* Evie
* Blyke
* Isen

## Appearing Abilities

* Time Manipulation
* *Telepathy*

## Notes & Trivia

* The Conversion Technology log all but indicates that Valerie underwent the process, having traded her original ability for a new one (or several).