The Foundation's observations during Leo's proximity to Kaelen yielded unexpected and concerning data. While Leo's harmonizing presence demonstrably stabilized Kaelen's volatile mana, the energy readings also indicated a subtle but persistent increase in Kaelen's overall power levels. It was as if Leo's calming influence wasn't just suppressing the chaotic outbursts but was somehow allowing Kaelen's core abilities to develop and solidify without the disruptive interference of panic and fear.
Dr. Thorne, along with the higher echelons of the Foundation, saw a potential opportunity, albeit a highly risky one. Kaelen's raw power, now showing signs of growth under Leo's influence, could be a significant asset if properly controlled and directed. The existence of other reality benders, individuals capable of manipulating the very fabric of existence, was a known and persistent threat. The Foundation had, in the past, attempted to utilize controlled anomalies to combat more dangerous ones, with varying degrees of success and catastrophic failure.
The idea of weaponizing Kaelen began to circulate within the upper levels. The Ethics Committee raised vehement objections, citing the inherent dangers of forcing a volatile individual into combat situations. However, the potential strategic advantage, the possibility of wielding a powerful reality bender against future threats, ultimately swayed the decision-makers.
Leo and Kaelen were informed of the Foundation's decision during a tense meeting with Dr. Thorne and several heavily armed agents.
"Subject Unknown," Thorne began, her voice devoid of emotion, "your influence on Subject Unknown Two has yielded… interesting results. His mana output has stabilized, and his control has shown marked improvement in your presence. However," she continued, her gaze hardening, "his potential power level is significant. The Foundation has decided to utilize this potential."
Leo felt a cold dread grip him. "Utilize him how?"
"Subject Unknown Two will be integrated into a specialized task force," Thorne stated. "A team comprised of controlled reality benders for high-risk containment and neutralization operations. Designation: Mobile Task Force Omega-7."
Kaelen, who had been listening with growing alarm, finally spoke, his voice laced with apprehension. "You want me to… fight things? I can barely control my own power!"
"You will be trained," Thorne stated flatly. "Your continued proximity to Subject Unknown will be contingent on your cooperation and demonstrable progress. His… stabilizing influence will be your primary control mechanism."
Leo's blood ran cold. They weren't just containing Kaelen; they were turning him into a weapon. And they were using Leo's connection to him as the leash.
"You can't do this," Leo protested, his voice rising. "He's not a weapon! He needs help, not to be thrown into dangerous situations he's not ready for."
"The Foundation's priority is the security of normalcy," Thorne retorted, her gaze unwavering. "Uncontrolled reality benders are a threat to that normalcy. If Subject Unknown Two can be controlled and directed to neutralize greater threats, it is a necessary measure."
Despite Leo's pleas, the Foundation proceeded with their plans. Kaelen was subjected to intensive training, his volatile mana channeled and directed by Foundation personnel while Leo was forced to remain in close proximity, his harmonizing presence a constant, albeit resented, control. The training was brutal, pushing Kaelen to his limits, exploiting his fear and desperation to mold his raw power into a weapon.
Leo watched in helpless anger as Kaelen became increasingly withdrawn and resentful, his initial relief at their continued proximity replaced by a bitter understanding of their forced interdependence. The subtle growth of Kaelen's powers, initially a source of hope, was now being twisted into a tool of the Foundation, threatening to break the fragile bond they had formed. The sterile walls of the Foundation facility had become a cage, not just for their bodies, but for their very souls.