RP XCOM: The Story of Defiance.

[Adrammalech]

// MEMORY: WARMTH //
Amelia Fischer, 6
Home of Robert and Susan Fischer
Concord, New Hampshire, USA
August 3rd, 1997 - 7:21 AM

The sunlight glitters between the plastic slats of the window, inviting me to play, but I ignore it today. The smell of dew-covered grass and steaming pancakes waft from upstairs, but I run downstairs instead. Rushing through the halls, I bash my body into the office door downstairs, making a loud bang as I enter. My dad looks at me with a faint look of frustration, before I give him an excited smile and he returns in kind. I run around his desk and raise my hands up, knowing the move to get attention all too well.

“Whatcha doo-ooin’?” I ask.

“Daddy’s doing work right now, buttercup.”

“What kind of work?”

“Grown-up work. Why don't you go upstairs and play with Mommy before church?”

I hop up a little.

“But I want to watch you work!”

He placed his pen on the table with an audible clack, instantly swiveling to look at me. His arms lunged forwards and hooked under my arms, picking me up with a crackling giggle of delight. He put me down on his knee and looked back down at the papers as he rocked his leg up and down, bouncing me enough to placate me. I look down at his work, a mess of print, writing and black boring lines. I think about how my homework is more fun than his, and I put my hand on his cheek and rub his beard, happy with the feeling of it.

“I love you, daddy,” I said, grinning.

“I love you too, Amelia,” he replied with a glance towards me.

“Forever and ever?”

“No matter what, I’ll always love you,” with a more direct smile.

“What if…I draw on your face!”

I point at him to accentuate my statement. He looks at me earnestly and chuckles.

“I’ll still love you.”

“What iiif…I steal a fire truck!”

“Mmhmm, still love you.”

“What iiiiif…I run away and go to China!”

He looked quizzically at me, that one catching him off-guard. “How do you know what China is?”

“From the TV, it’s under the ground!”

“That’s right, right under the ground,” he laughed. “I bet you could dig to it if you really tried.”

“Mommy gets mad when I dig,” I look down at my feet and play with my fingernails.

“That’s because you dig through her flower gardens, dear.”

“Flowers are smelly, who wants flowers,” I sighed.

“Well, Mommy does, obviously. She needs them for church.”

“But church is bo-oo-ooring.”

“It’ll mean more to you when you’re older,” he looked at me. “It teaches you important things. Being nice to people around you, being happy with what you have, and not doing bad things.”

“I already know not to do bad things,” I puff my chest out in pride.

“Well, there might be some more bad things you learn about when you’re older.”

“But you’ll love me even if I do bad things?”

“No matter what, Amelia.”

“I love you no matter what, Daddy.”

I lay on his shoulder and put my arms around him. I meant it as much as he did. He continued to rock me, and I closed my eyes.

“But please don’t steal any fire trucks,” he whispered.

“I won’t…as long as you get me one for Christmas,” I say with a cocksure grin.

“I’ll see if Santa can grab one for you.”

I let out another happy giggle and lean against him as he does his work with one hand, the other around me. A couple minutes pass and my eyes begin to flutter, my voice begins to stiffen.

“Daddy…do I have to go to church with Mommy today?”

He looked at me briefly, cuddling him with half-lidded eyes and a cloudy stare.

“No, buttercup,” he replied.

“Really?”

“Mmhmm. You can sleep in, Mommy will understand.”

I sigh with contentment, only making a high-pitched and crackling yawn instead of responding.

“Why don’t you go back to sleep, sweetheart?”

“I want to stay here. Can I stay here?”

“Of course. You never have to leave,” he smiled.

“Thank you…”

After a couple minutes more, my eyes closed, and I fell asleep to the rocking of the chair and the faint scrawling of a ball-point pen, my hands clutched around my father.

…

It’s time to wake up, buttercup.

…

Amelia, it’s time to wake up.

…

Fischer, wake up!

 

[MarineAvenger]

Calling in the Calvary Part 1

EXALT Base, Swiss Alps
Conference Room
August 25th, 2018
1745 Hours

Mumbled voices and dark faces all looked around at one another, each of them introducing themselves and getting to know their now coworkers, but in reality, trying to size up he competition and trying to get the upper hand for their new client. The room was dark, a larger TV screen on the right wall illuminating the contractors in a pale blue light of the world map. As the doors of the conference room swung open, each man and woman stood up and turned their heads as a large bald man walking in, heavily armed guards in black fatigues flanking him on either side. The man his self, large and his presence demanding to be noticed, wore a jet black suit with matching pants, dress shoes and a pair of dark sunglasses.

Taking his spot at the head of the table, he looked over each of the contractors with a gaze that seemed to pierce them, even though his eyes were covered. "I welcome you to my base. I know your trips were long and I will not waste your time with political bullshit." The man's voice was deep and booming but had a unnerving sense of calm that seemed both horrifying and reassuring. "My name is Viktor Dorian. This organization, is EXALT. Some of you have heard of it, most of you have not. To clarify, I am the prime leader here. I answer to no country, no other authority but myself. No...strings...attached." Viktor grinned and took a seat in his leathery chair, prompting the contractors to do the same.

"EXALT is a military force working towards the betterment of humanity. There is weakness in this world, with politics, disease and war. EXALT leads to get rid of all that with a strong, iron grip. We plan to expel the invaders who have come for control of our world and do away with the governments and rivals who plan to get in our way." Viktor leaned forward and put his hand together. "Any questions?"

A man raised his hand and stood up, the man wearing a dark blue suit and looked to be in his late 50's, with retreating hairline and pot belly. "Why are we here if you have such large plans? Surely a man with an organization like this must have a sizable force and large pool of resources. Why call us in if you are not desperate?"

Viktor's face turned cold as he looked at the man. "And who might you be?"

The man adjusted his tie and stood up straighter. "I am Frank Williams. I own a major share of American oil rigs in the Pacific."

"Well Mister...Williams, as a man with no military experience let me tell you that wars are costly, especially when against a powerful opponent. We recently suffered a blow from our competitors and we are reaching out to other sources."

A middle aged woman was the next to stand up, this one in a olive green bombardier jacket and a pair of aviators. "What sort of resources do you need?"

Viktor raised his eyebrow and stared at the woman, the question clear. "I am Josephine Rodriquez, of the Flying Phantoms Ariel Assault Force. We are freelance pilots."

"Well Miss Rodriquez, I need equipment, though troops and supplies to keep them going would do rather nicely as well. I have the funds...I just need the manpower."

There were hushed whispers around the room and each pair of eyes looked at one another with questioning gazes. Viktor sighed angrily and stood up, leaning against the table. "I will not lie to you. The operation I have planned is one thaty is a massive undertaking, one that will give us one giant leap to a new world order. Although the invaders are a concern I have handled the situation with them. The enemy I have," Viktor looked over the congregation. "Is X-COM itself."

There were a couple of outcries from around the room, some shouting that this plan was stupid and that Viktor was a traitor to mankind. "Those who do not wish to cooperate can lieave now. Those who wish to get rewards beyond their imagination can stay." The EXALT leaders voice boomed over the outcries and they died immediately. Out of the seventeen people in attendance, nine had gotten up from their seats. Viktor waved his hand to the door and each of them left, the closing of the doors immediately leading to sound of gunfire. "Now I know who is not stupid." Viktor muttered.

The man sitting across from Viktor, dressed in full combat gear and multiple deep scars across his face stood up. "So what do you have in mind?" The man asked with a heavy Australian accent.

"Power. Shall we defeat this enemy, we will gain control of this world. The armies of the world are in disorganized shambles. Our combined force shall be the force that leads mankind into a better future."

The man looked over the other eight and nodded his head, slamming a black Colt M1911 on the table. "You have my forces. I received work from the last leader. I had fun and was paid well, plus the look on her face when she learned of how the mission went was priceless. Wanted me to get this twerp, and I believe her exact words were, 'with the utmost discretion'." The mercenary smiled. "Course we shot the place to hell, and we still got paid in full. I hope you can live up to my expectations."

Another man stood up. "I would give support as well, though I wish I had a little bit more comfort about the aliens."

Viktor smiled and nodded his head. "Rest assured my friend, I have a very powerful ally at work." Viktor looked at the remaining six. "So, what is the general consensus?"

One by one, each of the six looked at each other, and one by one, each of them pledged themselves to Viktor. Viktor clapped his hands together. "Wonderful. We shall continue work as soon as possible. For now, rest yourselves. As I have stated, the journey must have been long." Viktor turned around and stepped in front of the double doors, his dress shoes squishing with the sound of semi-fresh blood and opened them, stepping over a couple of bodies. "Great, got blood on my fucking shoes."

 

[MarineAvenger]

Calling in the Calvary Part 2

XCOM Base, Siberia
Desmond’s Personal Lab
August 25th, 2018
1900 Hours

Desmond sat in the lab helping Ryan finish a small thing he was working on. Over the days, Desmond had grown pale and his coughing had gotten a little worse but Ryan just passed it off as the doctor’s just missing it when he went to get a check up and just suggested Desmond was getting a simple cold.

Looking at the clock, Ryan put the device down and gathered his things, giving Desmond a wave and a goodnight before walking out of the lab. Desmond was about to do the same when Sora appeared in holo-form and shifted his glasses. “Desmond...we have a slight problem.”

Desmond stood up straight, cracking his back and raised an eyebrow at Sora. “What sort of problem?”

Sora shook his head. “Asked Ava about it and she said you had a request to get into contact with someone. Well, rat man is calling.”

Desmond nodded his head slowly. “Get off the base server. I plan on telling Morrigan about this but I don’t want a nosey someone to think the wrong things.”

Sora nodded and disappeared, Desmond strapping on the computer and turning it on, allowing Sora to access Desmond’s mind. “I am in.”

Desmond sat against a wall and closed his eyes. “Put him through.” After a second, a man could be heard breathing on the other end, and a faint wind could be heard on the line.

"Kore wa watashi ni sesshoku shi eru koto o kokoromita otokodesu ka?" (Is this the man who tried to get into contact with me?)

"Soreha. Kore wa, ratto no ōdesu ka? (It is. Is this the King of Rats?)

"Naze shinda hito no koto o shiritaideshou ka?" (Why would a dead man wish to know that?)

"Wa arimasen Otohara no subete ga shinde iru. Watashi wa yuiitsu no seizon-shadesu." (Not all of the Otohara are dead. I am the sole survivor.)

"Soshite... Kono yuiitsu no seizon-sha wa daredesu ka?" (And...who is this sole survivor?)

"Hatoshi Otohara kare jishin no gakusei. Rutou Otohara no musuko." (The student of Hatoshi Otohara himself. Rutou Otohara's son.)

There was a silence on the line for a moment, whispering on the line indicated that the line was still open. "Anata wa, sono namae o shiyō shite, ikutsu ka no shinkei o motte iru. Rutou wa saikō no saikōdatta. Kare no isan o bōtoku dareka ga jūdaina erā ni narimasu." (You have some nerve using that name. Rutou was the best of the best. Someone desecrating his legacy would be a grave error.)

"Anata wa watashi o shinjite inai?" (You do not believe me?)

"Watashi ni riyū o ataeru." (Give me a reason to.)

"Yuki no michi o ayumu hito-tachi wa meiyo ni shibara reru mono no tame ni, ichizoku no seikatsu ni baindo sa re, shinobu no michi no kyōdai ga iru." (Those who walk the snowy path are bound to a life of the clan, for those bound by honor, are brothers in the way of the shinobi.)

There was a gasp on the end of the line as well as some distant shouting. "Anata wa... Anatahadaredesu ka?" (You...who are you?)

"Watashinonamaeha jūyōde wa arimasen. Jūyōna koto wa Otoharas ga futatabi jōshō shite iru to iu kotodesu. Issho ni ichizoku o yobidashimasu. Atarashī gurandomasutā ga Rotou Otohara no na no shita ni shōjite iru koto o karera ni tsutaeru." (My name is not important. What is important is that the Otoharas are rising again. Call the clans together. Tell them that a new Grand Master has arisen under Rotou Otohara's name.)

"Sore wa, watashi no omo ni okonawa renakereba naranai. Do no yō ni watashi wa anata no tonari ni renraku shinakereba naranai?" (It shall be done, my lord. How shall I contact you next?)

"Onaji mesoddo o shiyō shimasu. Watashi ga saisho ni sesshoku suru hitsuyō ga arimasu taiki suru." (Use the same method. Be on standby should I make contact first.)

"Anata wa, watashi no omo o komando to shite." (As you command, my lord.) The King of Rats ended the call and Desmond let out a sigh.

Sora left Desmond's mind and rejoined the base servers. "You okay mate?"

Desmond smiled. "Watashi wa genkidesu." (I am fine.)

"You...aren't going to make a habit of that are you?" Sora asked with a vague hint of dread.

"Course not. Japanese is more complicated than English. Took me two years and multiple days without food to get fluent." Desmond told the A.I.

"Your joking right?"

"Wish I was Sora."

Desmond walked out the door of the lab and left Sora with a confused look. "I swear...I never get the normal ones, don't I?" Sora let out a long winded sigh and disappeared, wishing he had the ability to get drunk.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

As the series of holograms formed around him, Suberbia floated forward a few feet, and raised his hands.

Let us begin this meeting of the Earth Overseers. Suberbia, Overseer of Africa, reporting.

Invidia, Overseer of...

They have Luxuria! What are we to do!?

Five heads slowly turned towards Gula, and the Ethereal sulked back a bit. Avaritia waved a dismissive hand.

Jeez, cool your tits. It's embarrassing. It isn't like this is the first time one of us has fallen.

Fallen, maybe. But she was captured!

Acedia shook her head. Avaritia is right. Why are you so worried? It is not like the Overseer of Asia will simply turn on us.

Don't be so sure about that...

Suberbia turned his head towards the Overseer of Australia. Speak.

She told the humans I was on the base. Probably made some kinda deal with them. Might even be working with them now. All I know is, I was kicked out, and now their shield prevents me from getting back in.

This One... finds this disturbing.

We should storm the base. Leave none of the humans she might have shared information with alive.

Ira scoffed. You have such little tact or knowledge of warfare. You would have our diminished Asian troops storm their base and surely get wiped out. You could always add your troops to their numbers, but considering how few you have to offer...

Don't you dare speak to me this way! I have had enough on my agenda these past...

Enough! Superbia's voice boomed through the heads of the other Ethereals. No action shall be taken in such regards until this One has had an opportunity to discuss it with the Honored Overseer. For now, until a full replacement can be found, we shall need one of Us to precede over Asia.

Very well. In that case, this One volunteers...

From this day forth, until a suitable replacement can be found, the Overseer known as Avaritia shall watch over the proceedings in Asia.

Acedia shook her head in relief that she hadn't been chosen, while Gula and Ira nodded in agreement. Invidia shook with rage.

Th... Th... There... seems to be something wrong with my transmission, I... I-I...

Invidia vanished, and Avaritia shook his head. Sore looser.

One last matter. Gula, the high ones have approved your request, in light of the loss of Luxuria. You can expect the arrival of you Kerberant within seven Earth rotations.

Excellent. Avaritia scoffed, and Gula turned to him. That wouldn't be jelousy, would it? Over my possession of something you don't have?

You must be out of you mind. I'd never want one of those disgusting, slimy beasts taking up so much room and threatening all my other possessions. Keep your worm. I would want it no more then I would want your garbage.

Just be sure to have plenty of humans available. Lest you be forced to use your own forces should you run out of food and your Kerberant is still hungry.

Gula tapped his fingers together. Indeed. This One can only hope it has some nice, juicy X-COM soldiers to feed on soon enough.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

DarkGemini24601 & ZombieSplitter53
Potential Reenforcments

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
August 25th, 0900 Hours, 2018
Main Gymnasium

Jessica lightly beat on a punching bag, trying her best not to show how amateur she was at it. After what happened to her out in the field, she felt a small amount of shame in how defenseless she was. Much to her sister's surprise, she had asked Alexia if she could exercise this morning. And so, she practiced what few moves she had learned from Modya, as well as little things she had picked up watching others.

"All I'm saying is, be calm about it, big guy. No need to scare anyone, even if you're on edge," Veda explained to her escort as they came across the gym.

"As...you wish," Ogedei spoke through an odd mixture of translation and his face mask. "Will try." He stepped into the gym, and walked over to the scientist with his two escorts close by.

Jessica sent a solid jab forward, remember to be careful about distributing the pressure in her arm. The bag rocked a bit, but not much more then if someone had bumped into it. Jessica pouted a bit, and instead tried her hand at speedy attacks, trying to get in as many hits as she could, as fast as she could.

"Jessica," the bass-toned Balmadaar spoke. "Would ask you about something."

Jessica let out a soft yelp, and quickly turned to the large alien. “Oh! Sorry, you… you startled me. After working with your friend, you’d think I was… used to it.” She pushed a strand of hair out of her eyes. “O… Ogedei, right?”

The Muton inclined his head. "Was informed you met...unusual Balmadaar at other base."

Jessica nodded. “That’s right. Big guy… well, about as big as you, so I guess normal sized. Had on this armor, kinda like the Elite armor, but all black and with all these special adornments. And he seemed intell…” Jessica eyes widened. “NO! No no, I didn’t mean… I mean, you seem very smart to me. What I meant was, he, uh… he was very well spoken.”

The Balmadaar let out a chuckle constrained by the mask. "Understood." Ogedei pointed at himself. "Enemy made modifications. If you speak truly, that one from before. And wearing armor of warlord... good news."

“Good news?” Jessica nodded her head. “Good news is good. Is he a friend of yours? He seemed nice. I… I mean, we didn’t really talk, and he almost took Alice, but he… he didn’t shoot me, and that’s something.”

"Not known personally. Just know a warlord follows that description," Ogedei responded. "Was alone? Not accompanied by any other Balmadaar?"

“There were no more of your kind, but he did have three others with him.” Jessica raised her hand over her head. “There was this tall one, kinda like the Thin Men, but more lizardish.” She stood on her toes to raise her hand as high as it would go. Then there was this really, really big guy, covered in armor, with four massive arms.” She lowered her hand. “And finally a shorter one in a cloak. Didn’t see much of that one, but seemed to have psionics.”

"Would expect warlord to enter with troops if present. Likely alone, but with interesting allies." Ogedei seemed to consider the other three. "Tall one likely how infiltrators looked before. Do not recognize behemoth. Short one...except for size, matches description of vile being in captivity here, least in dress."

Jessica raised an eyebrow. “You mean, like… an Ethereal? If that was true, why would it… I mean, the others I could see having a grievance, but an Ethereal fighting the other Ethereals?”

"Would hope that mental power would sometimes lead to wisdom," Ogedei expressed. "Just as...EXALT members joined us, chance that not all those beings are as vile."

“You think so?” Jessica smiled, and walked up to Ogedei, placing her hand on his. “So, you think they can be trusted? Maybe they even have a whole army to help us fight!”

"Can be trusted if true warlord stands among them to fight the red imposters," Ogedei stated proudly. "Army...doubtful. Warlord would charge in with if army existed. Though...not impossible. Despite attempts at control, Balmadaar remain more able to rebel than others. Would have to liberate those ships, though Ogedei wonders how to find one."

“Those ships? Like, one’s with you kind on them?” Jessica asked, curious.

The Balmadaar nodded. "Went to one before. They...Ethereals," Ogedei corrected, now having a name for those that had subjugated his people. "Keep females on special ships for breeding. Cannot control...they are more vicious." He grinned beneath his mask.

"...breeding ships?" Veda said in disbelief. "That's low..."

“Yeah,” Jessica agreed. “We should definitely look for one. We’d be freeing captives, and gaining great allies. Do you… know what they look like, Ogedei? Maybe you can tell the Commander, or Central Officer Brea, and we can be on the look out for them specifically. I don’t know all the details, but that hyperwave room should make it easier now.”

"Know the appearance, though finding one without shooting down shall be...interesting." Ogedei shook his head. "But would hope to join liberation force personally. Still desire to fight alongside XCOM."

Jessica nodded. “I think you’ve proven you can be trusted. Maybe you can ask for that as well.” The young lab tech rubbed her chin. “And I know someone who is pretty good with aeronautics. Maybe she can design something to shoot down a UFO without damaging it too much. Worth a shot.”

"Agreed. Will inform one of leaders of information and request," Ogedei decided. "Appreciate help, Jessica."

“Any time, big guy,” Jessica said with a big smile. “Can’t wait to see you out there, kicking butt.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Adrammalech & ZombieSplitter53

Emily Fischer
XCOM Headquarters – Medical Wing
Siberia, Russian Federation
August 27, 2018 - 1000 Hours

Emily let out a small sigh and her eyes crackled to life. She looked to her side to see a tray of medical tools and poor hospital food, and she shot up, adrenaline filling into her as if she was still in the Ethereal’s base. Her hands darted up to her head and started ripping off the stickers on her head until she looked the other direction, Morrigan standing at her side.

“Ms. Fischer! Emily… calm down.” Morrigan reached forward. “You’re safe, everything is okay.”

“O-oh,” Emily’s shoulders slumped and she took a deep breath. “Is everyone...is everyone safe? How long has it been?”

“About three days,” Morrigan answered. “We lost two men, Roosevelt and Volodarskii. But the others are safe. They’re all just waiting for you to wake up.” She sat back, the relief on her face evident.

Emily sighed with relief before realization set in. “Roosevelt...did I…?”

Morrigan sat forward again. “No… no, the Ethereal killed him, not you. No one thinks you killed him, and neither should you. If anything, you saved the others. Don’t think that.”

“Yeah, the Ethereal…” Emily nodded nervously. “I still don’t know what happened. There’s still something wrong.”

Morrigan rubbed her hands together. “The alien.. Luxuria… are you aware that she’s still alive? Everyone assumed it was you who stunned her.”

“I barely remember it...but yeah, I think I did. And I used telepathy…”

“I… I didn’t want to tell you this, but…” The Commander rubbed the back of her neck.” Captain… Atka… she talked with it. Apparently, she wants to see you again. I’m not sure why, and I’m hesitant to allow it. But, if you have questions, and you still feel off, she’d be the only one that would have answers.”

“Good!” Emily said briefly, nodding vigorously. “I want to see it! I have quite a few questions...”

“Are you sure, Emily?” Morrigan placed a hand on the soldiers shoulders. “I don’t want you to rush into this, and you don’t have to. I’m not sure what that thing did to you, but from what the others said… I just don’t want you to get hurt, anymore then you already have been.”

“No, no, I’m ready, let’s go right now,” Emily said firmly, pulling off another sticker and then reaching to the monitor clip on her finger.

Morrigan thought, trying to find some reason to stop her. She grabbed Emily’s hand, and said, “Calm down. You just woke up. You wanna set off the entire infirmary because they thought you flat-lined? Especially with your friends here?”

Emily left it alone, taking another deep breath. “Right...forgot about that. Um...okay, let’s call the nurse first.” She looked down at the web of wires falling off her arms. “Probably better off that way.”

Morrigan nodded. “Don’t wanna injure yourself more and push off your little meeting right?” She asked with a grin. She quickly stood up, and stepped into the hallway. “I’ll be right back. You want me to get your teammates?”

“N-no, not yet. I’ll need to come back probably,” she replied, “I just need to talk to the bitch now. There’s stuff in my head that doesn’t belong there.”

Emily noticed her clothes in a bag nearby and pulled it onto the bed. She started rooting through it nervously.

Morrigan returned a minute later with a pair of nurses, and noted Emily’s search. “Are you missing something?”

“No, just these clothes are dirty...I guess I’m not dressing to impress, though.” Emily looked towards the nurses. “Can you unravel me, here?”

The nurses moved towards her and started taking off the monitoring devices, making sure to turn off their respective computers before doing so. Emily winced a little as they pulled her IVs. She looked back towards Morrigan.

“I forgot, what about her captives? The humans in cages?”

Morrigan shook her head. “A lot of them couldn’t be saved. We’ve brought in a few, but we’re not sure how to safely remove their implants. Plus all the mental scarring and psychological programming. It… doesn’t look good for them.”

“I see...I guess I can’t be surprised,” Emily said, stretching her arm as it was freed from the medical devices. “So, where’s she holed up?”

“We have a special cell for her in the alien containment facility,” Morrigan answered. “She can’t escape it, but she still has some use of her abilities, so you’ll need to be careful.”

“Can you get someone to meet me there, explain what I’m walking into?”

“I’ll take care of it,” Morrigan answered. As she walked out, she pointed at the nurses. “Just… make sure you listen to them, so they’re sure you’re clear to leave, okay?”

“Mmhmm,” Emily mumbled, pulling a shirt from her bag, and then looking towards her. “Thank you.”

-------

Emily arrived at the Alien Containment Unit, wearing some well-wrinkled civilian clothes and bandages on her hands. She rushed up to the door to where she was being held, eager to get to her work.

An engineer met her outside of the room, extending his hand. He frowned, noting Emily’s injury, and extended his other hand. “I’m Jean. Commander said you wanted to have a little chat with our unwelcomed guest.”

“Yeah, we have a lot to ‘discuss’,” Emily replied, shaking his hand. “Emily, it’s good to meet you. I’m just wondering what kind of cell she’s got, if there’s anything I can use to make her listen or talk.”

Jean nodded. “Her cell is fitted with several nodes that drain her energy, so you won’t have to worry about her busting out. Just keep in mind, she still has limited use of illusions.” Jean pointed to his head. “Loves to play mind games too, but I’m sure you already knew that. If she doesn’t feel like talking, there is a nice, red switch that’ll zap her with energy that directly counters the frequency of energy she lets out. The dial next to it controls the intensity.”

“Sounds good,” Emily grinned, “anything I should avoid?”

“You need a couple passwords, and at least to people, to let her out, so don’t worry about that.” He grinned. “Just avoid killing her. Me, I’d welcome it, but I don’t wanna get in trouble. Kinda like my job, you know?”

Emily nodded. “I’ll be gentle. Am I free to enter?”

Jean nodded. “I’ll be watching you from out here. Illusions don’t work on the cables. And Legion has one of their androids watching from the corner. Don’t worry about him, though. He… it… isn’t much for conversation. It’s just there to make sure the Ethereal doesn’t trick you into smashing things.”

“Sounds good, thanks,” she replied, turning towards the door.

 

[Adrammalech]

Emily slipped inside and closed the door carefully, spinning on her heels and grinning. A glint shined in her eyes as Luxuria connected with her mind again, and she stepped forward slowly, swinging her hips with each motion. Luxuria hovered closer with every step, until they were both at the glass of the pod. Emily pressed her hands against it softly, her sides brushing against the side of the control panel.

It is good to see you again, Emily.

“How can I help, Great One?”

This one is just pleased to see you again. If only it could be closer to you…

“I was thinking the same thing,” she whispered lowly, smiling.

Emily’s hands caressed over the controls, her fingers tasting the top of each button. Her eyes switched from mischief to rage in a flash and her palm struck down on the red button. With a blinding flash, the Ethereal’s regal pose was shattered and it fell down in a cry of panic.

“You’re easier than men, you fucking idiot,” Emily sneered. “You’re going to give me answers or we’re going to have a lot of quality time with this button.”

I was merely p-playing along. This one has g-gathered that even a large number of humans are resistant to t-torture. What makes you think it will work on one as advanced as this one?

“I don’t need it to work. I just need it to satisfy me.”

The Ethereal doubled over again as another shock brought her to her knees.

Then you are more like this one than I dreamt.

“Hmm,” Emily’s lips curled into a smirk for a moment, and then drifted back to seriousness. “Well played. Maybe we’ll ask some questions, and see if we need to revisit the button. What did you do to me? Why were you touching me?”

Because you are attractive.

Emily’s hand moved towards the button, but stopped. Her brow furrowed in disgust.

“You find me attractive?”

You are a matured female. You should know you are.

“We’re not so good about that, in our species.”

One of the many weaknesses of your kind.

“But, to you? Aren’t I an alien to you?”

Luxuria held her hand out from her robe, showing the withered arm in the icy, sterile light of the containment unit. Where Emily’s was fair, smooth, and strong; Luxuria’s was sallow and wiry, the sinews and bones within plainly visible, looking as though they could snap with a small amount of force. Luxuria looked to the ground, ashamed.

Strength and resilience are attractive metrics in any species. We no longer possess it.

“What does my attractiveness have to do with your mind control?”

Luxuria’s head moved slightly, but without the facial expression, Emily couldn’t tell why.

You…believed that to be mind control? This fills this one with as much shame as it does curiosity. You don’t even know what you defeated.

“Enlighten me,” Emily’s eyes narrowed.

It was a merge.

“I’ve seen mind merge before, it doesn’t work like that.”

No, a true merge, as prescribed in the Path.

“What path?”

The Path is our hope for a perfect and complete race. Joining our mind with a body that is not… She looked down at her emaciated and discolored body, a feeling of despair wafting from her. This. The other races did not have body’s suitable for our ambition, or brains compatible or powerful enough to hold our conscious. We believe your race does. This one believes you do.

“You were trying to…take my body? Forever?”

Luxuria’s head tilted with agitation. Take is not the right word. Join is more appropriate. This one wanted control, but not without sacrificing your willpower, your Gift. If your Gift is lost, there is no hope for Ascension. In time, with proper modification, perhaps this one would even let you control beside it, similar to one of your scientist’s conditions. But you would not submit.

“I don’t understand. You knew I wouldn’t roll over for you. You already succeeded with controlling Temple, and your illusions worked on the others. Why would you risk yourself by trying to merge with me when you knew I was resilient?”

Luxuria’s voice filled with a sorrowful excitement, the female voice gushing openly about her designs.

Imagine being held closely to rapture for decades. So close to the most enveloping fulfillment your mind can comprehend…yet held back, for science. For equality. For ease. Luxuria made a loud coughing noise, which Emily equated to a scoff. This one could not wait! Not with one of my treasures so close. This one was so enraptured with disobeying my people that it did not perceive you as the threat, and that is how you defeated it.

“Will you try again?”

No.

“Why not?”

Because this one respects you.

 

[Adrammalech]

“Respect?” Emily was incensed by the word, and raised her voice. “You’ve ripped apart humans, turned them into monsters and imbeciles, just for your amusement! You don’t respect me, or anyone!”

The New Ones were an inferior race, and for some subjects, they still seem to be. However, you… Luxuria looked aside, searching for words. The Path is to be used on the New Ones to make them subjects, then students, then vessels. Equals was never part of our equation. An analogy: your kind mutilates cattle and chickens, for food, for beauty products, for entertainment. The New Ones do not feel empathy or guilt when a chicken dies because they are above them.

“And me?”

You have proven to be as strong as me, an Ethereal, and that makes you an equal, worthy of respect. Even if I was to worry of your species, we have a personal bond. That is why this one uses your preferred name, Emily, and speaks so respectfully towards you.

“Well, cut it out.”

If you wish to have an informal relationship with me, I will not complain.

“We don’t have any relationship, bond or no bond.”

While we were joined, I felt your entire life as my own. Your very being was burned into mine. Your impulses, your emotions, your memories. Are there any humans with such a bond with you?

Emily’s arms folded into a closed position. She felt more violated than she had in some time.

“Maybe not exactly. Is that why I had a dream where I was you?”

It is possible. As you were burned into me, I was burned into you.

“I can’t understand them…but I felt one of your memories,” Emily replied. “It seemed like…a bad date?”

Luxuria looked aside. Although alien, her body language pointed out that she didn’t want to explain it. She rewound to her previous point.

I will not try again.

“Then what will you do?”

I have no further designs. I am a traitor to my people, and I have failed in my ambition. I will try to survive, and make amends.

“Traitor? How?”

I tried to rush The Path. I wanted to be joined now, before the others. They would never allow such rashness…such lust. Our people live in pursuit of The Path, the methodology – the salvation – to be used on inferior species, one of whom defeated me in the process of my greatest ambition. I am a failure, down to the fiber of my being.

“That’s…not true,” she said, taking an odd pity on the alien.

Say what you wish. The truth is plain.

“What do you mean by ‘make amends’?”

To my people, for my crimes.

Emily took a moment in silence to process everything. When she looked up, she stared at the Ethereal with resolve.

“The Path is an honorable thing for your people to do, right?”

Yes. It is our reason for being. The hope of our race.

“But the Path isn’t supposed to be used on equal races.”

Correct. An Ethereal would never control or possess another Ethereal. It would be an unforgivable offense.

“So, if I am equal, and there are others like me, your people are being dishonorable.”

If there are more such as you, I would agree. I have focused on you for a long time, however. It is debatable.

“If your people are being dishonorable, then helping an equal race rebuff them would be an honorable cause, wouldn’t it?”

Luxuria visibly strained, her body tensing up. After a moment, she nodded. I…believe so.

“Then help me.”

The Ethereal stood still. Whether it was an angry glare or a confused look was up to the imagination. A few moments later, Luxuria spoke raggedly.

Why would I?

“Because, you care for me,” Emily smiled flirtatiously.

I do, but not more than my own kind.

“You said your people are dishonorable. You said you wanted to subjugate them. You may not be able to take my body, but maybe we can still cooperate.”

Maybe. What do you desire, Amelia?

“Your captives. The doctors don’t know how to take off your conditioning mechanisms.”

You would use your opportunity with me to save peons? People whose wills have failed and broke long ago? Fascinating…

“Tell me how to save them, Luxuria.”

After another awkward silence, Luxuria spoke again with a trembling tone. Something about it reminded her of a romantic pleading with a girl who had changed her number.

There is a price.

“A price? What kind of price?”

You will return every seven rotary cycles. I believe this interval is important to the New Ones.

“Return…what?”

To me.

“You…want to see me?” Emily recoiled a bit. “That’s it?”

I wish to further my relationship with you. Do you accept?

“Fine,” Emily nodded. “You have my word.”

Leave now and fetch your doctors. I will explain to them the process.

“Thank you.”

Emily turned away and Luxuria called after her.

You will return to me?

Emily looked over to the nearest reflective surface, seeing her eyes were still hazel. If this was a trick, she couldn’t figure it out.

“…I will.”

 

[MarineAvenger]

Giving to the Cause Part 1 (MarineAvenger and ZombieSplitter53)

X-COM Headquarters
Legion Area, Soldier Barracks
August 28th, 1300 Hours

“So, what kind of people do you think they are?” Aya asked, briskly walking along side the Commander.

“Not sure,” Morrigan answered. “We should be grateful they’re ‘people’ at all. Unlike Elene, the EXALT clones don’t seem to have much going for them. But Desmond seems to think highly of them, and they did help get Elene, Lily, and that scientist out.”

“Think they can be trusted?” Aya asked, her tone a bit skeptical.

“Maybe.” Morrigan shrugged. “Desmond seems to think so. I’ll have a better idea once I get to talk with them. Hopefully my soldier’s intuition will count for something.”

“Amongst other kinds of intuition,” Aya added with a smile, knocking on the door of the Elites.

Chief opened the door, raising a confused eyebrow at the two women standing outside. “May I help you?”

Morrigan cleared her throat. “Perhaps. I am Morrigan O’Brien, Commander of Project X-COM. This is my second-in-command, Central Officer Aya Brea.”

Chief looked between the two and nodded his head. He opened the door further and waved them in. Sitting at a table in the middle of the room, Hawke and Bull were in the middle of an arm wrestling match, Bull clearly having the upper hand, and Fox sat huddled in the corner of the room with a notebook in his hands. “Men, we have visitors. Show some respect.” Chief told them. All three looked at the visitors simultaneously and threw down what they were doing and quickly standing up.

Morrigan held up her hand. “At ease. You need to be too formal. You aren’t my soldiers. At least not yet.” Smiling at Chief, she said, “I take it you are in charge of your… unit?”

Chief nodded. “These are my brothers and subordinates.”

“We’ve spoken with Desmond Walker,” Aya said. “He told us that the reason you are here, the reason you assisted us against Viktor Dorian, is because your primary loyalties lie with each other. Very admirable, I must say. But that being as it is, would you be willing to pledge loyalty to another? Perhaps someone who will show you more respect for your… individuality then EXALT likely did.”

Chief hesitated for a second, but Hawke put a hand on his shoulder and walked him to talk in private. “This is our chance Chief, this is the opportunity we need.”

“I am not sure Hawke, do we really wish to swear loyalty to these guys?”

“It is only temporary. Just think of this as a job, we will still be together. Plus we get to fight better than we ever could before. We should at least take this chance while we have it.”

Chief thought it over for a moment and put a hand on Hawke’s shoulder, walking back to Morrigan and Aya. “Would you be willing to make a few promises?”

Morrigan nodded. “If they are within my ability to keep, then yes.”

Chief nodded. “If we are going to fight for you, we want to do it as a unit. No splitting us up. Second, is that you will allow us to leave, should we be inclined to...is that agreeable?”

Morrigan nodded again. “I can assure you, any mission you go on will be together.”

“And X-COM is volunteer only,” Aya added. “Always has been. You may leave if you should wish it, now, or later on.”

Chief smiled and held out his hand to the Commander. “Then we have a deal. Would you like introductions?”

“Please do,” Morrigan answered, grasping Chief’s hand. “I’ve heard a few things, but I always insist on only judging people I meet personally.”

“My name is Chief. I am the team’s commanding officer and act as the assault infantry.”

Hawke stepped forward and shook Aya’s hand. “I am Hawke, the team’s tactical officer and long range specialist.”

Bull crossed his arms and nodded to each of the women. “Bull, the team’s heavy weapons operator and explosive expert.”

Fox just stared at the two woman, not saying anything.

Morrigan and Aya exchanged a glance, and the latter asked, “And what about you, Mr…”

Chief frowned slightly. “He is Fox. He is the team’s scout and support. For some reason...he just doesn’t talk much. He isn’t shy by any means. He will just stare at you and move on after a bit.”

As Chief finished talking Fox looked between the women one last time before grabbing his notebook and pencil and sitting back down in the corner.

Aya shrugged. “Well… that’s alright. Scout needs to know how to be quiet anyway. Hopefully he’ll warm up.”

“About… your names,” Morrigan started cautiously. “Are those codenames, or your actual names?”

Chief tilted his head slightly. “Of course they are our actual names. We weren’t given any when we came out, so we took it upon ourselves to. Our names reflect ourselves.”

Morrigan smiled. “Well… they’re a bit unorthodox, but if they fit…” She rubbed her hands together. “Now, you understand that there will be some missions that will require more than four soldiers of course. Do you have any… preferences for whom you would share a squad with?”

Chief nodded. “With Walker. We seem to share a common ground and he seems to understand us pretty well. If he is unavailable, we can be with anyone, just as long as they don't do anything stupid to put my men in danger.”

Morrigan smiled. “You shouldn’t have to worry about that.” She folded her arms. “I do have something I need you to promise me, though. It likely goes without saying, but I’ll ask it anyway.”

Chief looked Morrigan in the eyes with seriousness. “What is it?”

“Family is important to you. You want to keep your squadmates safe. But family is also important to me, and everyone here is my extended family. I need you to promise me that, as long as it doesn’t put your unit in immediate danger, you’ll protect the other people on your team like you’d protect them. I’d ask no less from any other soldier.”

“Of course. We may be artificial but we are not heartless. Any man we fight next to is worth protecting.”

Morrigan extended her hand again. “I look forward to working with you, Chief. I expect great things from your entire team.”

“We won’t disappoint ma’am.” Chief stood at attention and when back over to the rest of his squad. Before the two left however, Fox walked up to Aya, and pulled on her sleeve.

Aya raised an eyebrow. “Yes, Fox?”

Fox ripped a piece of paper from his notebook and handed it to the central officer, a near perfect full body sketch of both Morrigan and Aya.

“This is amazing, Fox.” Aya smiled brightly. “Can I keep this?”

Fox nodded slightly, his expression not changing from his passive look and went back to his corner and sat down.

Aya grinned as she walked out, looking back at Fox as she walked out and giving a quick wink.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Giving to the Cause Part 2 (MarineAvenger and ZombieSplitter53)

Markus paced in his room, Riley watching him with a bored expression. When Markus looked at his companion he threw his hands up in the air. “Well what would you suggest we do?” Riley whimpered and covered his snout with a paw. “You are no help you know that?” Riley barked and moved his resting spot.

A light knock came on the door. “Excuse me, we’re looking for a Mr. Markus Grathem. We were told this was his room.”

Markus raised his eyebrow at his furry roommate and opened the door. “Yes, it is. And you are?”

“My name is Morrigan, and this is Aya.” The Commander smiled warmly. “We were hoping we could have a talk with you.”

“Uh, sure. Come on in.” Markus sat on his bed and Riley jumped up, laying next to Markus and staring at the two new arrivals.

Morrigan and Aya both pulled up a chair. “First of all,” Aya started, “We wanted to make sure you were alright. You were pretty badly injured when you came in, and we wanted to make sure you recovered.”

Markus put a hand on his side where Viktor had shot him and nodded his head. “It healed fine. Only a scar from the bullet is left.”

“Good to hear.” Morrigan folded her hands. “Tell us a little about your qualifications. Elene Exalt seemed to vouch for you, and if someone like Viktor Dorian hired you, you must be fairly educated.”

Markus scratched his cheek. “Funny. I always thought it was because I was cheap. Well...not a whole lot. The reason I was taken into EXALT in the first place was because I was looking for an internship. Got more than I bargained for I guess. Most of my knowledge has either come from a textbook or what Elene has taught me first hand. Have a bit of medical knowledge and I know how to shoot a rifle.”

Aya grinned. “We couldn’t interest you becoming a soldier, could we?”

Markus looked at Riley. “Don’t know how valuable I would be. Plus there is Elene to worry about...um…” Markus looked between the two of them and blushed a bit.

Morrigan nudged Aya. “She’s just messing with you. We’d never want to put someone so close to our ally in danger. Besides, we’re more interested in what you can do for us with that brain of yours.”

“What about it? I don’t think there is much I could benefit you with.”

“You underestimate your usefulness,” Aya responded. “I fear you might have spent too much time having you confidence beat down by Viktor Dorian.”

Morrigan nodded in agreement. “Elene and Legion need you, and they have a lot of use for you. However, I’d like to think their interests and ours are connected now. So I was hoping, when you aren’t busy with them, if you’d like to help out in the X-COM labs.”

Markus considered the option for a moment and put his chin in his hand. “I have had nothing better to do with my time. Might be beneficial for me to at least kill time.”

“Good to hear,” Morrigan said. “So, tell me what it was you did with Elene and the others at the EXALT HQ. And for Dorian, for that matter. And we won’t judge, so be honest.”

Markus shrugged his shoulders. “Help with MELD research and use. Whenever the girls needed something I was there to lend a hand. Viktor told me when he hired me that he was underhanded and that he didn’t trust them. After me and them became...ahem, close...that mistrust extended to me.”

“I can imagine a man like that would have problems trusting his own mother,” Morrigan said, scratching her chin.

Aya thought for a moment. “I believe they need some help in the gene lab, Commander. Ms. Lockheart was running that for the most part, but she’s being called more for work on autopsies. I’m sure she would appreciate any help she could get, especially from someone who has already handled MELD in the past.”

“I have no problem with that. I am pretty good with brain stuff too. Well, any body part really. Biology was one of those hidden talents for me, so anything involving it is right up my alley.” Markus told the women.

“Good to hear.” Aya stood up. “I’ll go ahead and tell the lab to send you a timesheet of when they could use your help. Feel free to do whatever you feel comfortable with.” She nodded at Morrigan. “I’ll see you later , Commander.”

Morrigan nodded as Aya walked out. “Thank you, Mr. Grathem. We appreciate any and all the help we can get.”

Markus smiled and scratched his head as Riley barked next to him. “Anytime.”

Morrigan smiled at Markus, and placed her chin in her hands, giving Markus a curious look.

“What?” Markus asked with a curious smile.

“Soooo… what can you tell me about Elene? Personally. You two seem pretty close, and she is kinda a closed book. A little hard to get friendly with.”

“Well…” Markus stood up and cracked his back doing so. “She can be a real downer, and her reasoning and logic skills play heavily into her emotional factor.” Markus smiled warmly and looked at the Commander. “But she is a very loving person. She got played a bad hand and can be a downer but she is compassionate about her work and her sisters. Has a certain quality about her I can’t help but love.”

“How close are you?” Morrigan asked. “A couple, perhaps?”

Markus nodded, a little embarrassed. “Vee and Lily have become close friends, even Emma seems to have warmed up to me. Being the only one to talk to kind of has a way to form close bonds. If I hadn’t come to when I did though… I was afraid I was going to lose them when Viktor tried to get rid of us. Guess that also plays a role as well.”

“I have another important job for you, one that I believe only you can perform.”

Markus put his hands behind his head and raised an eyebrow. “Shoot.”

Morrigan leaned forward. “Besides Desmond, you’re the one who has gotten the closest to them. This alliance is important to all of us, especially me, but with everything that has happened, things are likely shaky on their end. Everything Elene went through to join us, Lily’s… trauma, and efforts by certain individuals to break us apart. I just need you to… do what you’d probably be doing anyway. Keep Elene happy. Be there for them. As long as they have someone to help keep them happy, this little alliance of ours might work out.”

Markus nodded. “Course. If and when Viktor comes for us...I will be with them. They might not see it, but they are weak right now. You have my rifle to keep them safe should it come to that.”

Morrigan nodded. “Alright.” She stood up, and extended her hand. “I look forward to working with you, Markus.”

Markus grasped her hand. “You got it.”

 

[Frostlich1228]

Frostlich1228 & DarkGemini24601

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
1800 Hours, August 25th, 2018
Holo Rec-Room

Buniq stared at the dark room before the two of them, tapping her foot. “U-um...where s-should we g-go?”

Ammelia gave the hybrid a friendly smile, “How about you decide? Let’s go where you want to go.”

“M-my places a-are usually s-somewhere in n-nature, if t-that’s okay with y-you…” Buniq explained, shifting her weight a bit from one foot to the other.

“Of course it’s okay.” Ammy gave it some thought, “Maybe we could walk underwater or something, does that sound good?”

“U-uh...I c-could try that…” Buniq started to specify things to the computer, and an underwater landscape, likely a subarctic sea, took shape. Above them, hard to see due to their two-way camoflauge, were orcas, among other things.

Ammelia moved her hands through the air, her hand being slowed by a liquid-like resistance. She took a few steps, finding it difficult to move through the water. Sounds of the ocean filled her ears as she relaxed, taking in the almost alien noises around her. “This is… Amazing.” Ammy said, bringing Buniq closer.

“T-the computer d-did most of the w-work...a-and y-you came up with the c-concept,” Buniq stated.

“If you’d like to go somewhere else, we can. You’re in charge today.” The Sniper replied.

“N-no, y-you like i-it...I’m j-just saying the c-credit d-doesn’t go to m-me.”

Ammelia ran a few fingers through Buniq’s hair, trying to calm her down, “Don’t be so nervous, we’re here to relax.”

Buniq seemed to quickly calm down. “R-right…” she leaned against Ammelia, closing her eyes.

“See?” Ammy responded softly, nuzzling up against Buniq as they took in the beauty around them.

The hybrid nodded slowly, looking around again. “I-I do have s-some memories of o-oceans like this f-from the s-surface p-per...perspective, e-even if they a-aren’t mine.”

Ammelia knelt down and scooped up a handful of fine sand, letting it fall through her fingers, “I’ve only ever been to the ocean a few times. Whenever we did go my father’d have the entire beach reserved for us, he didn’t want anyone to harass us while we were relaxing.”

“H-he does c-care a lot a-about you…” Buniq remarked.

“He cares about you too, you’re a part of our family now…” The Sniper replied, standing back up.

“Y-yeah.” Buniq stood up as well. “D-do you have s-somewhere else y-you want t-to go?”

“I think it’s your turn to pick. I’m the one who suggested the ocean after all.” Ammy stated.

Buniq thought for a moment. “R-rainforest?” she added in specific details, and a rainforest, cool as though it were evening, took shape around them, a break in the canopy allowing some light to shine through, though it was tinged with the orange of sunset. The sounds of the rainforest were soon added in, though most of the living things were hidden in the denser parts of the jungle.

Ammelia offered Buniq her hand as she listened to the plethora of sounds around her.

“I-I wish y-you could s-see this f-for yourself…” Buniq lamented.

“I think I may have a way to make this a little better for myself…” Ammelia replied, moving her hand up to her ear and powering down the SAaIDA. The blue grid that normally filled Ammy’s vision vanished into complete whiteness. “There, now this should feel a little more real to me.” The Sniper responded, her hand still reaching for Buniq’s.

Buniq took Ammelia’s hand, smiling lightly. “B-better?”

“Mmhm” Ammelia smiled back, “But you might need to stay close to me so I don’t get lost.”

“A-alright.” Buniq laid her head on Ammelia’s shoulder. “I-I’m glad w-we could s-spend time t-together…”

“Me too…” Ammy said softly, “Can I ask you something, Buniq?”

“Sure…” the clone responded. “W-what?”

“Where do you plan to go after all this is over? Will you go back to your tribe?” Ammelia asked, her head turning towards Buniq.

“I-I d-don’t know...I w-was n-never part o-of their t-tribe...the o-other one w-was...and l-like A-Atka said, the v-village was d-destroyed…”

“Well… I was thinking that you and your family could live with me and my dad at Cross Tower. We have plenty of room for all of you.” Ammy added, the sounds of the forest becoming sharper now that the SAaIDA was off.

“I-I w-would like t-that, I t-think…” Buniq decided, watching a bird dart between branches.

“My father wouldn’t let you all be homeless, especially when we have a few empty guest rooms near the top floor.” She finished, “How are Isitoq and the others doing anyway? I haven’t heard much from them in a while.”

“I-Isitoq is a-alright...t-things have b-been quiet for him…” Buniq explained. “N-Nouja and Y-Yaralria were w-worried about A-Atka after she… f-fought o-one of t-those Ethereals i-in her m-mind?”

The Sniper tilted her head, “She did? I heard that one of those things tried to force a staff member to kill Emma, but I wasn’t sure how it was stopped. Is Atka alright?”

The hybrid nodded quickly. “Y-yeah...a-apparently i-it just d-did some m-mental d-damage that A-Atka’s body r-reacted to, but i-it was t-temporary.”

Ammelia shuddered a little, “It’s really unsettling that those things can just control someone though our shields… Hopefully we can find a way to make them stronger…”

“I-I t-think they f-fixed the problem…” Buniq offered.

Ammy sighed deeply, “Good… I’m glad we found out when we did, it could’ve been so much worse.”

“C-can w-we...n-not t-talk about t-that, a-anyway?”

“You’re right, I’m sorry… We’re supposed to be relaxing and here I am making making you worry.”

“I-It’s fine, I j-just know the s-subject b-bothers you,” Buniq replied.

“C’mon… Let’s walk…” The Sniper said, tilting her head in the direction they were facing.

Buniq started to walk with Ammelia through the rainforest.

Ammy enjoyed the sounds around her, letting Buniq lead the way. Her head perked up when she heard the music of a songbird above them. She looked back down and smiled blissfully at the hybrid, “I’ll be able to see what you really look like soon Buniq…”

“R-really?” Buniq asked. “H-how?”

“Emma worked with my father to find a way to cure my eyesight. They plan on using meld to repair the defects in my eyes. They have it done now actually…” Ammy answered with a joyous tone.

“T-that’s w-wonderful…” Buniq said happily.

“I told them that I’d be ready for it at the end of the war.” Ammelia replied, turning to face Buniq, “And I want you to be the first thing I see…”

Buniq smiled. “T-thank you…”

Ammelia slowly moved her arms up to Buniq’s shoulders as she closed her eyes, bringing Buniq in for a kiss. Ammy overestimated Buniq’s height however, causing her lips to meet the tip of the hybrid’s nose. Ammelia blushed a little, but corrected her mistake by moving down, planting the kiss on Buniq’s lips.

The hybrid reacted shyly at first, but slowly returned the kiss, wrapping her arms around Ammelia.

“I love you…” Ammelia spoke softly into Buniq’s ear, caressing her gently.

Buniq reddened slightly, holding Ammliea close. “I-I l-love y-you t-too, A-Ammelia…”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSpiltter53
Birthday Party for Two

X-COM Headquarters
Refugee Area, Central Lobby
August 26th, 1500 Hours

Brigid sat at the small table in the center of the room, working on some math problems. Rei watched over her shoulder, a slight smile on her face. “Not bad, kid. Keep this up, and you might not have to tutored by someone in your class in simple math.”

“If it gives you a headache just looking at it, it isn’t simple,” Hitomi insisted, scrunching her nose and chewing vigorously on her pencil.

Jake chuckled at the banter, and checked his watch. “Oh… shoot, my shift starts soon. Brigid, pack up your homework, I need to take you to…” He stopped. “Hmm… normally, you’d go to Atka… wonder if… Derik can…”

“What about Desmond?” Brigid asked.

“Desmond?” Jake scratched his head. “With everything he’s gone through, he’s been so… busy…” The young girl frowned, and Jake smiled. “No reason we can’t go ask him, right? I’m sure he’d be happy to see you!”

Brigid brightened up, and jumped to her feet, slinging her bag on her back and waving goodbye to the others. “Have fun,” Keiko said. “We’ll try and have a gift ready for you next time we see you.”

“Okay,” Brigid said, slipping her small, paper hat on and taking Jakes hand.

The pair made their way towards the first basement floor, and Jake knocked on the big, metal door of Desmond’s lab. “Um… Mr. Walker? You in there? Oh, God, I hope he’s here or I’m gonna be late.”

Desmond opened the door and looked at the guard in front of him for a second. “Can...I help you?” Desmond stared at his face for a few more seconds and his face lightened up. “Oh, Jake What brings you here?”

“Well, Atka isn’t available to watch Brigid, and and I have guard duty, and she… asked to spend time with you.”

“You’re not busy, are you Mr. Desmond?” Brigid asked, looking up at him.

Desmond smiled lightly at the girl and he looked back into the lab. “Sure, I can watch her.”

“Thanks. I’ll let the Commander know she’s with you. I’ll see you later, Brigid.” Jake took off, frantically trying to get to work on time.

Brigid smiled up at Desmond for several seconds. “I missed you, Mr. Desmond. Mr. Jake said you were really busy.”

Desmond nodded his head and led Brigid into the lab. “Yeah, a lot of family matters.”

“Which family?” Birgid asked. “Like… you mommy and daddy? Or brothers and sisters?”

Desmond smiled and sat down, putting his hands out to see if Brigid would like to sit on the table. “Brothers and sisters. Though not normal ones. More like adoptive siblings. I don’t need to drop any confusing stuff on you.”

“Oh… okay.” Brigid let Desmond lift her onto the table. “I don’t have any s… siblings. But I’m okay, because I have friends.” She adjusted her small hat, and kicked her legs lightly. “But lots of my friends are grown ups. Is… that weird?”

Desmond shook his head. “Some people might but I don’t. Kids are more fun to hang around than grown ups.” Desmond poked Brigid’s nose. “Cause kids do things that grown ups would never do. Makes it fun for us to watch and for you to do.”

Brigid giggled lightly. “Like what? Why can’t you do kid things?”

Desmond thought for a second, stumped by that question. “Hm. You know I don’t know. Adults are just boring I guess.”

“Hmm… I guess I should stay a kid as long as I can, huh?” Brigid grinned. “So I’m not like boring Mr. Desmond, huh?”

Desmond squinted his eyes. “Watch it you. I could still punt you across the room.”

Brigid gave him a mock look of shock, but couldn’t stop herself from smiling for long. “How old were you again, Mr. Desmond?”

“Artificially, 21. Actually, 8.” Desmond informed the small girl.

“That’s strange,” Brigid said, folding her arms. “So big, so strong, but you’re only two years… I-I mean one year older than me.”

Desmond chuckled. “You know. I haven’t thought about my birthday in forever. I can’t even recall when it is. Now that is silly, isn’t it?”

“Well, if you don’t know, why don’t you just pick a day.” Brigid took off her paper hat, and placed it on Desmond’s head. “Today can be your birthday!”

Desmond chuckled. “Although I like the idea. I could probably just find out.” Desmond looked around the room and called out to his A.I. “Sora, you think you could find that out?”

Sora materialized and crossed his arms with a mock smile. “Hate to break it to you, but the twerp is right.”

Desmond raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“Happy birthday meat head.” Sora told Desmond.

Looking at Brigid he said, “You scare me sometimes.” He told her jokingly.

“I… didn’t accidentally make you think it was your birthday, did I?” Brigid asked, looking a bit worried. “I-I just liked the idea of sharing it with you…”

Sora leaned in next to Desmond. “To be honest, I have no idea when you popped out of the tube, so for now I would roll with it or blondie here might start bawling.”

Desmond shook his hand and smiled at Brigid. “Guess you called it Brigid. So how would you like to celebrate?”

Brigid thought for a moment. “Well… last year, daddy brought me to the park, and let me play all day. Then he made me a big cake, and let me eat as much as I wanted.” She smiled. “Mommy said she’d get me a cake. So that just leaves the park… unless you wanna do something… grown-up.”

Desmond rustled Brigid’s blonde hair and and stood up. “Kid, today is my 9th birthday, why would we do grown up things?” Desmond held out a hand and added, “Besides, I know how we could go to the park.”

Brigid grasped his hand. “Alight. And I guess you’re still two years older than me.”

Desmond led her out the door and told her, “Guess that means the youngest gets first dibs."

 

[MarineAvenger]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSpiltter53
Birthday Party for Two Part 2

Desmond took the Commander’s daughter through the halls of the base, until the reached their destination of the holo-rec room. Desmond, satisfied that no one was in attendance, managed to get a park projection working along with playground and picnic tables. After a bit, Desmond walked back to Brigid. “Called in a favor and me and you will be getting some food directly from the bar, so no nasty stuff for lunch. What would you like to do first?”

“The swings,” the young Irish girl answered, rushing over to them. “But don’t push me to hard with your super strength, okay?”

“That ruins the excitement though.” Desmond teased. “I promise not to make you a bird, or maybe a plane?” Desmond muttered in mock of the girl.

Brigid kicked back and forth as Desmond lightly pushed her, until she had enough momentum to swing by herself. “When we came to the park, I thought daddy was gonna be bored, ‘cause we were there so long. But he smiled the whole time. He only said we had to leave so I wouldn’t miss mommy’s call.”

“It is times like those you have to treasure Brigid. I remember one time when I was training and I got so caught up in it that I almost fell over from exhaustion. Time flies when you have fun.”

Brigid giggled. “Training. You mean, like exercise? That’s fun? Because daddy always complained when he had to exercise.”

“Yeah, something like that. Most people don't like to be active but I get a certain enjoyment out of it. Though since I exercised really hard, I am able to do some pretty cool things.”

“Like beat up aliens?” Brigid asked, jumping from the swing and running over to a slide. “And protecting your… s-siblings?”

Desmond nodded. “Those are cool things but even cooler than that.” Desmond looked around as if people were watching them and he whispered to Brigid before she went down the slide. “I can show you if you promise not to try these yourself. Especially, don’t tell your mother.”

Brigid nodded her head vigorously. “I promise.”

Desmond rose an eyebrow. “Good, but if you do it anyways I will hunt you down…” Desmond squinted his eyes and got close. “And make you eat vegetables.”

Brigid giggled again, and made a face of disgust. “Now I extra promise.”

Desmond nodded and he walked over to the computer again, making a large monkey bar set, longer and higher than Brigid would have ever seen. “How much you want to bet I could do this?”

Brigid looked up, a bit nervous. “U-uh… I think you can. But I don’t want you to get hurt…”

Desmond made a hurt look. “Such little faith in me.” Desmond quickly scaled the side of the bars and jumped, grabbing the bar and swinging in a fluid motion until he reached the end. Pulling himself up, Desmond then walked across the top of it as if he was walking on stable ground. “Told you so.”

“Wow!” Brigid’s eyes shined while she watched the psionic soldier. “Can I do that someday if I exercise a lot?”

Desmond gave a nervous chuckle and climbed down to the ground. “Maybe. Though it took years for me to exercise enough to do something like that. I don’t think mommy would like her little girl becoming a beefcake.” Desmond squatted down and put a hand on the small girl’s shoulders. “Besides, I think you should work more on your drawings instead of exercising, you are getting to be quite the artist, if I do say so myself.”

Brigid nodded. “Okay. But I’m gonna excercise so I can be strong too. Maybe when I’m bigger, when you can show me how to do that.”

Desmond smiled weakly. “Maybe kiddo. For now though, we still have other things to do. So what next?”

Brigid pointed to the normal monkey bars. “Help me on those? I… don’t like doing them by myself.”

“Sure, though I fear I am starting to be a bad influence on you.” Desmond took the small girl’s hand and led her to the monkey bars. “Wanna try yourself or do you just want to sit on my shoulders pretending to be me?”

“Um… by myself, but stay close…” Brigid ran over to the monkey bars, and lifted her self on the first one.

Desmond did as the girl had instructed, standing behind her so he would not be in the way and just hovering his hands to the sides of her in case she fell.

“I did this for the first time with daddy on my last birthday too.” Brigid slowly swung from bar to bar, stopping between each one. “He had to catch me five times before I did it all by myself. Knocked him down twice. But… but he… but he…” Brigid paused, her expression turning to confusion. She reached forward without looking, and missed the bar.

Desmond quickly caught the small child before she fell to far and he placed her on the ground. “Want to talk about it?”

“He… he didn’t call?” Brigid mumbled, a look of realization on her face. “Mommy had… had to call me early, because when it was early for me, it was late for her. But it is late now. So daddy should have called. Why… did he forget?”

“I...am sure that there is a reason. This war makes it hard for some people to keep up contact.” Desmond put his hand under the girl’s chin and made her look at him. “But no father needs to tell his daughter that he loves them. You already know how much your dad loves you, and that is all that matters, right?”

Brigid nodded. “Yeah… yeah, that’s right. Daddy loves me. And I love daddy.”

Desmond nodded, relieved he avoided a situation. Looking up, he noticed as a man carrying a couple of bags had entered the holo room. “Looks like lunch has arrived. I order a bunch of different things so you should have everything you want.”

“Thanks, Mr. Desmond.” Brigid smiled brightly. “Happy birthday, Mr. Desmond.”

Desmond thanked the girl and picked her up, carrying her to a table.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

"Repeated Circumstances, Revised" - Atka Ipiktok

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
1800 Hours, August 26th, 2018
Medical Ward

Atka slowly came to, feeling the cool, clean air of the infirmary before she opened her eyes slowly. White lights temporarily blurred her vision, the brightness being the only thing the Inuit woman could not get used to. She felt strangely sore in the side, despite the fact that the cut had been in her mind. Beside the scout captain, Nouja looked up as her sister awakened, and tears welled up in the younger sister's eyes. She hugged Atka, though was careful not to hurt her by doing so.

"I-I was so worried..." Nouja whispered.

Atka reached up to return the embrace, though her movements were still a little sluggish. "I'm fine...I make it through these things..."

"I'm not so sure I want to get used to my daughter fighting battles in her head," an older voice said from Atka's other side. Looking over, Atka saw Ipiktok sitting in a chair next to Yaralria. "It's noble of you, but you make us worry," he continued lightly.

"Who knows...maybe I'll get resistant to it after awhile..." Atka responded.

"I would not recommend attempting to test that theory," Yaralria stated. "Is that creature dealt with?"

"I...don't know," Atka said quietly. "In the vision, I dealt him a mortal blow...but it may have only pushed him out. He wasn't entirely there because of the shield around the base."

"That, combined with the fact that your side didn't split open, would suggest he still lives...but I doubt he shall be in the mood to fight again," Chandra noted, walking over with a small clipboard in hand. "Do try to stay out of this sort of trouble, Atka. From what I can tell...your body reacted as if there were trauma to your side, hence the blood and the soreness you're probably feeling."

Atka smiled weakly. "Means that he felt like I impaled him through the chest with a spear?"

"Perhaps."

Ipiktok looked over at the psionic doctor, then back to Atka. "What exactly...happened to you in there then?"

"Invidia...cut me in the side with an alien sword?" Atka offered.

Nouja held her tighter. "P-Please don't let that happen again..."

The scout gently patted Nouja on the back. "I'll try. Hopefully we won't have an Ethereal trying to possess everyone again...they don't seem to like trying the same trick twice."

"We find ways to deal with it if they do," Yaralria added. "Regardless of our concerns, you still did a good thing. It sounds like everyone involved is grateful."

"Careful...you'll let that go to my head," Atka muttered. "I like to think I do what I do for other people's sake, not just because I enjoy helping people."

"I think excess pride is the least of your worries." Ipiktok decided. "Not that its a bad idea to be careful."

Nouja squeezed Atka's hand. "And I promise I'll be more careful," the scout captain affirmed.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Innocence

X-COM Rec-room
August 26th, 1900 Hours

Jake sat down at the bar, sighing deeply. "What can I get you?" The bartender asked.

"Can, um... can I just get a ginger-ale." Jake smiled sheepishly. "I know it's a bar, but..."

"Not as strange as you think." The bartender fetched him his drink with a smile.

"What's wrong, Jake? Already lost your taste for the drink?"

Jake turned around, frowning at a grinning Alexia. Slowly walking over to her table and sitting down, he shook his head. "I never had a taste for it. That was the first time I ever had a drink, and the last, if I can help it."

"No wonder just a few drinks kicked your ass." Alexia watched Jake slowly take a drink, noting the sorrowful look in his eyes. "You alright?"

Jake shook his head again, slower this time. "It... isn't your problem, and I don't want to bother you with it."

Alexia shrugged. "I don't mind, and I owe you. Besides, it'll be a while until Modya gets here." She tilted her head. "This about your girlfriend's fight with that Ethereal?"

"She's not my girlfriend," Jake mumbled. "Though... she is the first single woman I've met here that actually won points with Keiko. Pretty impressive."

"And all she had to do is save her from an evil alien possessing her," Alexia said with a tone of amusement.

"That isn't what's bothering me." Jake placed his chin in his hands. "Can't really talk about it. Doctor-patient confidentiality."

"Well... you don't need to use names," Alexia insisted. "You look like you're about to burst if you don't talk to someone."

With a sigh, Jake started, "It's just... I'm counseling someone who was hurt by someone else. And they are making some progress. But they are stuck on this mind set of revenge. Like, serious revenge. And her loved ones are encouraging it."

"You mean, like..." Alexia traced her thumb across her throat like a knife, and Jake nodded. "Well, does he deserve it?"

"That doesn't matter," Jake insisted. "That isn't the point."

"Are you sure?" Alexia asked. "Because it sounds like it is entirely the point."

Jake rocked back and forth a bit, not wanting to answer. "Fine... fine, yes, okay? He deserves it. For everything he did to her, for everything he's done to a lot of people. And after what she went through, she deserves to be the one to do it." Jake gave Alexia a pleading look. "But she can't. She... just can't."

"Why not?" The green-haired woman folded her arms. "If she hates him that much, I'm sure she get bring herself..."

"No. No, you don't understand." Jake scraped his nails against the table, and looked incredibly frustrated. "I mean... it can't be her. Did... d-did you talk to your sister about the... the alien she..."

A bit of color drained from Alexia's face. "Yeah... yeah, she was... upset, to say the least. After the pain and the worry over Ammelia wore off, after the fear for me was gone, all she was left with was the empty feeling from having to kill that alien, even though it was shooting at her."

Jake nodded. "L... she might not react the same way. She might not give it a second thought. But it could end up haunting her. He has hurt her so much, but it is all stuff she can recover from. No matter what she might think now, she still has her innocence. If she kills him, stains her hands on a monster that isn't worthy of her time, she'll have her revenge, but he'll be able to hurt her one last time. And when it is all over... she'll find it didn't do as much to help her as she thought."

The pair sat in silence, and Jake quickly climbed to his feet. "Where are you going?" Alexia asked.

"To think." He smiled. "Thanks Alex. Being able to talk helped. I'll figure this all out. Enjoy your date."

Alexia smiled. "Sure. Maybe the next one can be a double date. Me, Modya, you, and At..."

"Stop... jeez." Jake rolled his eyes as he walked out, not daring to turn and look at whatever mischievous look Alexia might have.

 

[Dahlexpert]

Dhalexpert & Zombiesplitter53

So you can teach an old dog new tricks

X-COM Headquarters

Psionics Lab

Ashleys pod slowly opened, and Ashley emerged from it. “ Ugh... damn it, I thought I was done with morning sickness. God this is terrible.”

“Happens to a lot of people,” Jean said, Ashley’s clothes in one hand, a bucket in case she needed it in the other.

“Other than that, how are you feeling,” Jeanne asked.

Ashley slowly got back to her feet. “Ugh…. My head hurts, how long was I in there. It feels like more than two days?”

“Seven,” Jean answered with a smile. “Congradulations.”

“A week? Why was I in there for a week? I thought you said it would take two days?”

Jeanne bit her lip. “I… I’m sorry, Ashley. I know you said that you wanted to be woken up first, but…”

“It’s my fault,” Jean insisted, stepping forward. “We needed a new containment cell built in a hurry. A lot happened while you were in there. I remember you originally said to just let you sleep before changing your mind, and with everything going on, I suggested we just keep you in when your results came back positive.” He bowed his head. “I’m sorry.”

“What, do you think I’m gonna kill you or something? Relax. If something important happened while I was sleeping then I understand. So, my test came back positive, huh? I’m psionic? Two questions. One, what happened when I was sleeping? And what kind of power do I have?”

Jean relaxed a bit, and Jeanne smiled. “Well, while you were asleep, we found one of the Ethereals, the one lording over Asia. We lost a few good men, and nearly everyone who made it back was hurt, but it was a successful mission.”

“Even got a prize,” Jean added, handing Ashley her clothes. “That was what the special cell was made for.”

“Hmm, an Ethereal. So we caught one of those freaks. Good to hear, I might have to see this thing my self, just to see what i’m up against. Now.” Ashley get’s her close on. “What kind of powers do I have?”

“You’ve tested positive for powers within the blue spectrum of psionics.” Jeanne explained. “The powers mostly revolve around control and manipulation of your own energy. You should have a form of ESP, which will let you see things beyond your normal vision…”

“With your mind’s eye,” Jean added.

“Right. And a weak form of the mind fray ability, which you can use to weaken and confuse you opponents. We know blue psions can also transfer their energy into there physical body to make them stronger, because Captain Atka has done it to an extent, but it’ll likely take you a while to build up to that point.”

“Hmm, well, I have a sixth sense now. Great, that fits me just find. And don’t worry about me developing my psi powers. Some meditation should do me nicely. Now tell me the energy transfer, is it like Eva?”

Jeanne nodded her head. “Something like that. Though her ability works with her implants and gene-mods. Don’t go too far with yours, not at first. Sure, you’ll be a bit stronger for a while, but it’ll drain you really fast.”

“Work on it little by little,” Jean said. “Build it up, push yourself outside of battle, but even then, don’t push too hard.”

“Right” Ashley finished getting dressed. “Well, this sounds very useful, and something that fit’s my style. Well my new style anyway. Hell, if I was still a sniper and my old self, I wonder how things would change. But that’s the past it doesn't matter, thank you both for this gift. It sounds like I will be training with Atka.”

Jeanne extended her hand. “As always, if you need anything more, you know where to find us.”

Ashley shakes Jeanne hand “I most likely will come back here. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to train on my new powers, and possible see our new guest.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Why One Was Chosen" (BMPixy & ZombieSplitter53)

Bikini Atoll, Somewhere in the Pacific Ocean
Overseer Scout Craft GBWY-443
1643 Local Time

Gently the Honored Overseer floated into the central room of their craft, taking their familiar place before the psionic device. With a gentle nod, Jiokjiok stepped out of the room to take up a guard position, the door reforming as the Balmadaar passed through it. The Overseer opened up their mind to the device, the mass of purple energy spiking in reaction before settling back into a state of calm.

This One reaches out with their mind, seeking the one who had wished to speak with this one, inviting them to share words and thoughts with this one, the Ethereal projected into the device, before settling back and waiting for a response.

A minute later, the voice of Superbia rang out. Overseer of the Continent of Africa. Thank you for speaking with this one so promptly.

This One is always ready to listen to the words of those this one serves beside. Sloth in such matters leads to ruin, the Honored Overseer replied. If this one may, this one requests that Superbia share the information that that one has called upon this one for.

This One regrets to inform the Honored Overseer of the fall of our base in the Continent of Asia. What’s more… the Overseer of Asia, known to the New Ones as ‘Luxuria’, has been taken captive.

A quiet tremor of annoyance flooded through the psychic channel, a rare display of emotion from the Honored Overseer. This is… disappointing. With the leadership in the region neutralized, the base of power we have worked to accumulate despite the proximity to the primary Resistance’s headquarters will suffer terribly in the time it take to replace or free the Overseer of Asia. Such an act from the New Ones was not to be expected until much further along the Path, when they were on more level footing with our kind.

Indeed. This One fears this might be partially due to Luxuria’s impatience. She wished to rush the New Ones, and herself, along the Path, instead of letting it go along its natural course. This One feels she has lost her way, and we should… abandon her to her fate. She does not have the necessary information to cause us great harm should she be persuaded to divulge anything, and it would be too costly to attempt a rescue.

But she is one of our own. The entirety of our kin has lost their way, who are we to judge one who has strayed slightly further? But Superbia is indeed correct that to attempt a rescue would be a costly expenditure on one who has already cost too much. To devise a solution would take much time and planning from this one, if at all possible. Regardless, this one wishes to know in what manner was the location of Luxuria’s base discovered, so that the others among us may better protect themselves from such an incident?

The New Ones have used our technology to uncover our hyperwave transmissions and trace them back to their sources, even within cloaked ships. This One recommends a minimal use of such transmissions, even if we must resort to more… primitive ways of communicating, at least until a way to block their detection is found.

A wise decision. This one also has produced an idea. Since the New Ones are likely still discovering the meanings of our codes and language, we can use this fact to set them back on the proper Path, slowing their advances so that order might be restored. A single vessel, loaded with experienced troops, gaining the attention of the New Ones and then landing and preparing an ambush.

An excellent idea, Honored One. Should it succeed, it will surely help us set the New Ones on the Path again. And even should it fail, the New Ones would be hesitant in the future to attack every cloaked vessel they find.

“The mark of the Path is that every fork returns to the road,” as the Creator said. The New Ones believe that they are the masters of their fate, and we should do best to encourage such a delusion as we guide them further upon the Path. As this one knows, such hopes oft lead to despair, but also determination. Which one shall the New Ones find within them, this one wonders.

We shall be there to discover this along the way. Under the guidance of the Honored One, the New Ones might yet make it. After a few moments of silence, Superbia started again, a bit slowly. There is one last topic this One wishes to discuss. Until a suitable replacement can be found, this One has put Avaritia, Overseer of Europe, in charge of matters in Asia. Invidia… resists, and believes He would be better suited, both because of he has less of the Earth to oversee than the others, and by His own merits. This One… does not believe he is prepared for such responsibility. The agreement of the Honored Overseer would likely end this dispute.

As always, the New Ones are particularly apt at choosing names. Invidia wishes to possess that which belonged to Luxuria, and Avaritia finds themselves with more and more. The Honored Overseer paused for a moment, mulling over the decision. This one has a solution. If Invidia wishes to possess all of Asia, then so let him, but he will have to share the duties with Avaritia. As stated in the last meeting, Superbia’s forces in the area shall remain under that one’s control, such that they may act as a balancing agent of sort.

A brilliant idea, Honored One. Invidia shall be given the chance to prove his ability to take on such a responsibility. Should he succeed, all the better for him. And should he fail, he would have no one to blame but himself, and the Honored One’s plan has Avaritia in play to easily take control. As always, the Honored Overseer has proven why they were chosen for their position.

One does not rise to a station such as this One has attained without learning how to best handle a situation. Just as Ascension cannot be claimed through one color alone, neither can things such as these be grasped without a firm understanding of how best to use one’s wisdom, power, and control to ensure the Path remains followed.

Indeed. This One thanks the Honored One for their time. With their leave, this One shall get to work on the plans set forth today.

Very well, that one is dismissed to see to it that the Path reaches whatever end it may. May it guide as it sees best fit. Gently the Honored Overseer disconnected themselves from the device, severing the mental connection. The psionic device dimmed to its normal purple hue, as the Ethereal gently settled to the floor. Now… how to best recover Luxuria from the hands of the Resistance… the alien pondered, turning and exiting the room.

 

[MarineAvenger]

Hopeful Future, Resurging Past

Desmond's Personal Lab
August 28th, 2018
0100 Hours

The hour was late and Desmond was having another restless night of laying in his bed, not tired at all from his daily activities. Considering the circumstances, Desmond went to do the only thing he knew best, work. Though upon entering the lab and looking around Desmond realized that he had finished all of his planned projects. Sighing in annoyance, Sora caught the attention of Desmond's presence and he activated his hologram, walking across the room and standing across from Desmond, only a few feet away.

"Desmond," Sora said, addressing Desmond with a half nod in greeting. "What brings you here so early again?"

Desmond rubbed the back of his neck and pulled out a stool, sitting on it and laying his head in his lap, rubbing his eyes. "More restless nights."

Sora leaned against the table, folding his arms across his chest and looking down on Desmond. "Something the matter to be keeping you up?"

Desmond returned the eye contact and stated, "If I knew that, I would be sleeping."

"Sorry 'bout that mate." Sora adjusted his glasses and stood up straight. "Must suck." Sora said with a sincere tone.

Desmond looked at Sora with a hint of disbelief. "This isn't the normal you."

Sora stared at Desmond briefly and looked around the room, putting his hands in his pocket. "At night that tends to happen. When most of my more active processes cool down I become more calm. Like as if you had a chill and you have a blanket of warmth wash over. You just loosen up."

Desmond rubbed his head, coughing into his fist. "I guess I underestimated the extensiveness of your programming."

Sora looked at his hands and how the occasional flicker of the hologram reminding him that his presence was an illusion. "To be honest, most of my programming extends from Ava's base lines of code. Viktor only gave me my computer prowess." Sora walked to the end of the room and stared at a hologram projector that was eye level to him on the wall. "I have considered getting a body from the girl that we met not too long ago. Though the more I think about it, the more sad I become that it is only personifying my artificial being. Every emotion and feeling I have is all artificial. No body will change that I am just lines of code on a computer. Kind of depressing but so is the way of 'life'."

Desmond stood up and walked next to Sora, laying a hand on the hologram's shoulder. "This more critical you doesn't suit you. You maybe lines of code but the way people feel about you makes you truly alive. I am sure you have considered that concept, right?"

Sora didn't answer the question and continued to look at the projector until Desmond turned Sora towards him. "What about the way Ava makes you feel? That is not artificial."

Sora shook his head. "It wouldn't matter if I told her I loved her or not. I highly doubt she feels the same and besides, we are programs. Love is not exactly the most easy thing between us."

"You should at least tell her. Whether or not she accepts or not, it would be better to have her know and be rejected then to worry about it and have some peace of mind."

Sora looked at the psionic shoulder up and down and sighed in defeat. "We will see." Sora walked away from the wall and sat on one of the metal tables. "Your request was answered by the way."

Desmond raised an eyebrow at the speed the information arrived. "So we have the names of the clan leaders?"

Sora nodded. "So explain to me how all this works."

Desmond pulled out a stoll from under the table and sat down. "Well, when I was a clan member, there were four major clans. Nothing too big, around 60 members spread out between the four. The Otoharas were the largest and more powerful of the clans. The acted as sort of the ruling family. The other three are the Toshiro, the Fujigaras, and the Hatakes. The Toshiro were more into the spiritual side if things, the Fujigaras were the most open to the outside world, traveling on pilgrimages around the world in the pursuit of knowledge, and finally the Hatakes were more into the combative aspects of the shinobi lifestyle."

Sora rubbed his chins. "So we have the monks, the librarians, and the brutes...what did that make the Otoharas?"

Desmond smirked. "As I said they were the more or less the best of the best. On top of leading the other three clans, we were the jack of all trades. We practiced on all aspects of the other clans but of course we have our contrasts. Our spiritual training was more for the purpose of finding inner calm, our knowledge pursuits were more inclined to the history of the four clans, and we focused more on the stealthy way of combat."

Sora whistled. "Sounds like one hell of a set up."

Desmond nodded. "So tell me about the current leaders."

Sora nodded and stood up materializing a list of names. "According to our rat friend, the current leader of the Toshiro is a 37 year old man named Hideki. Leader of the Fujigaras is a 56 year old woman named...Yamineko. Last but not least, the leader of the Hatakes is a..." Sora paused for a second, looking closer at the paper and raising an eyebrow. "Says it is under the leadership of a 17 year old girl named Saka."

Desmond tilted his head and walked a few steps closer to Sora. "Can you repeat that name?"

"Saka."

"And she is 17?"

Sora nodded slowly, not seeing where the clone was coming from.

"No shit, she finally made it." Desmond stated in a low voice.

"Someone you know?" Sora asked with a mischevious smile.

Desmond nodded. "Y-yeah she used to be a ward for the Otoharas. Me and her were pretty close friends when I was at the enclave. I always thought she died when the place was attacked."

"Sounds like she was a lot more then a close friend to you." Sora insisted.

Desmond smiled and shook his head. "It may have been that way once. This was a time when my emotional state was still developing for the most part. She always...implied she had strong feelings for me but as you can imagine, I was totally blind to her affection."

"From early records of your time at XCOM, it seemed like you were a blank sheet. Are you saying you were like this at one point?"

Desmond shrugged his shoulders. "My personality was getting there, but after I lost my life there, it was a major blow to me. I never really started to recover from that until I joined XCOM."

"Guess that makes sense. So what is the plan from here on out?" Sora asked his companion.

"I will tell Morrigan about them, hopefully set up a meeting, and gain some powerful allies." Desmond said so matter-of-factly.

"You sound confident. Why is that?"

"Tradition and honor are very important to these guys. They are loyal to whoever is the leader of the Otoharas. They will join, vows are a very serious matter with these guys and these particular vows of service are hundreds of years old."

"I hope you are right." Sora told his friend.

"Don't worry Sora. I haven't let us down yet. Besides, I have a promise to keep."

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Frostlich1228 & ZombieSplitter53
The Value of Monogomy

X-COM Headquarters
Primary Rec-Room, The Bar

After a brief but enjoyable date when Modya, Alexia leaned back in her chair, wanting to take in the company she had missed while she was ‘away’. She glanced around at all the soldiers and techs, and wandered over to the jukebox, looking for something by Queen. Settling on Killer Queen, she grabbed another ginger-ale, and sat back down, her sore feet and somewhat increasing girth making it a bit tiring to stand up for too long.

“An’other!” Mary shouted, only a few seats to the left of Alex. The counter in front of her was littered with empty beer bottles, totaling to five. “Eh’ ‘ant eh’ ‘nother!”

The Bartender sighed, and assuming Mary knew her own limits, passed her another bottle. Mary poured the contents into her mug, taking a large chug before setting it back down on the table.

“Damn, girl.” Alexia chuckled. “Slow down a bit. Some guys liable to take advantage of you if you get a little too tipsy.”

Mary turned to the woman, recognizing her as her sister’s friend, “Eh’ dun’t ‘are… En’ ‘act, eh’ could go fe’ et’ ‘ight eh’bout neh…”

“Hey, just trying to help a girl out.” Alexia took another drink. “Not like it’s my problem. I don't normally look out for strangers, especially ones that are drunk off their asses.”

The Gunner cocked her head in confusion, squinting at Alexia. “‘Ranger? Eh’ met ye’ ‘fore, in’t eh?”

Alexia grinned. “Must be new here, huh? Jessie and I are sister. Two halves of the same coin. She’s the one you’ll see most of the time, but I’m out now. Names Alexia.” She stood up, and walked over to Mary. “You… related to Ammy. You must be Mary. Jessica told me about you.”

“She ‘id?” Mary replied, taking another chug, “Irl’s ‘ice en’ ‘ell, and neh’ te’ bad en’ th’ eyes, beh’ sh’ needs eh’ ‘ougher skin…”

“That’s what I’m here for, so to speak.” Alexia sat next to her inebriated companion, ignoring the powerful smell of beer. “Some what’s wrong, Mary? You normally drink like this, or is something bothering you?”

Mary sighed a little, “Eh’ ‘ittle eh’ both…”

“Well, any friend of Jessie’s is a friend of mine, especially when she’s Ammy’s sister.” Alexia placed a hand on Mary’s shoulder and smiled. “So… wanna talk about it?”

“Y’ net’... Eh’ ‘ink eh’m ‘runk ‘nough te’ ‘alk ‘bout et’...” Mary responded, finishing off her beer, “‘Ell, th’ ‘enly person ‘at’s e’er ‘oved meh ‘aid sh’ ‘ouldn’t ‘ove meh eny’ore…”

“She, huh?” Alexia scratched her chin, then shrugged, never one to judge. “You two have a fight or something? Couples fight all the time, right? And they say things they don’t mean. Don’t lose hope.”

“Es’nt ‘uch eh’ ‘ight… ‘Ore ‘ike eh’ talk… “ The Gunner corrected.

“A talk, huh?” Alexia nudged Mary. “Well… who needs her, right? There are plenty of other… er, girls out there. You’ll find someone better, someone who won’t ditch you like that.”

“Sh’ in’nt ‘ant te’... Sh’ ‘aid eh’ spent te’ ‘uch ‘ime wit’ o’her ‘irls… Sh’ ‘aid eh’ could… Beh’... Eh’ ‘ew ‘ights ef’ter I ‘id eh… Sh’ ‘ame te’ my ‘oom an’ ‘aid sh’ ‘ouldn’t ‘are meh…” Mary explained, motioning for the bartender to pass her another beer.

“So, she wants to be serious or something?” Alexia thought for a second. “Isn’t that usually a good thing? If she wants just the two of you to be together, then why did she turn around and say she didn’t love you?”

“‘Ause she ‘ouldn’t share meh’... Eh’... ‘Ike ‘aving ‘asual fun wit’ o’her ‘irls, en’ sh’ in’int ‘ant meh to…” The Bartender slid Mary her seventh beer, turning to take an order from another patron.

Alexia placed her hand in her chin. “Well… a lot of people see the idea of a monogamous relationship to be the overall goal. And the act of… ‘having fun’... with someone else while in that relationship an act of betrayal. I’ll admit, it all seemed strange to me at first. Could say I was short on the need life experience. But after I met Modya, even thinking about sleeping with another man made me feel guilty. If that isn’t how you feel, then that’s you. I’m not one to judge, and if it works, it works. But it sounds like she sees it differently.”

“Modya? At’ ‘ussian ‘ocketeer ‘ight? Damn… Eh’ ‘aw ‘im en th’ ‘rain’in ‘oom wit’ is’ friends… Eh’ ‘wear ‘at chest ‘ould ‘ice cheese.” Mary smiled a little, “‘Ame he’s taken.”

“That he is, and I’ll fight to the death to keep him,” Alexia said in a serious tone, but kept smiling. “Besides, I don’t think you should give up on this girl of yours. Given time, she might decide she agrees with you. Who knows, you might even agree with her. You’d be surprised how much… ahem, ‘fun’ two people can have when they focus exclusively on each other.”

“Ell’ my’ ‘ife I’ve ‘ept ‘round, eh’ ‘een ‘lenty eh’ ‘lations’ips ‘ike at break ‘ep. Hell, ‘arried ‘eople ere’ meh ‘ost ‘requent ‘ustomers.” Mary said, pouring the beer into her mug, “Je’ ‘eems ‘ike ‘eing ‘tied te’ one ‘erson ‘or ‘at ‘ong ‘ould ‘ose et’s eppeal’...”

Alexia nodded. “I can understand that. I used to feel the same way. Maybe I still do, to an extent. Of course, when you meet the one, true person that makes you feel whole, it never loses its appeal.” She shrugged. “But what do I know? I’m not all that experienced, even with a bun in the oven. I just figured, if I was in your shoes, I’d give the monogamous things a try. Nothing stopping you from going back to sleeping around if it doesn’t work out, right?”

“Eh ‘uppose not… ‘Aybe eh’ ken’ even’ ind’ some ‘iddle ‘ound wit’ her... “ Mary replied, resting her head on her hand. “Sey’, ‘ince yer’ mon- mono… ye ‘ow, ‘ould ye’ be’ ‘possed te’ ‘av’in eh’ threesome wit’ ye, ur’ ‘oyfriend, en’ omeone else? ”

Alexia laughed. “Tempting offer, but no. It’s already weird enough, sharing him with Jessie.” She patted Mary on the shoulder. “But if I’m ever feeling experimental, I’ll look you up. For now, gotta try my hand at this responsible mother thing.”

“Ye’ ‘are ye’ ‘oyfreind wit’ ye’ sister?” Mary asked, giving Alex a strange look.

Alexia held up her hands. “No no, that… that came out wrong. I meant because of the same body thing. W-we never… she’s never awake when I… and I’m… I mean, I might have peaked once, but… that’s all. R-really.”

“Wh’... Wh’ ‘as at ‘ave te’ do ‘wit ye’ two ‘eing ‘wins? E-Em’ eh’ miss’in some’tin?” She responded, her look becoming more confused.

“Guess I should’ve been more clear.” Alexia scratched the back of her head. “We’ve only recently been so open with telling people. You ever hear of a split-personality disorder?”

“Y-Ye…” Mary’s eyes widened a little, finally understanding what Alexia had meant before, “Oh, se’ ye’ two… ar’ two ‘arts eh’ th’ ‘ame ‘ersonal’ty?”

“Right.” Alex nodded. “Like I said, I’m Jessie’s tough half, so to speak. Though I’d like to think we’re two good parts of a greater whole.” She motioned for the bartender. “How about we get you some food, something to sober you up a bit, and I’ll tell you all about it.”

“‘Ure, ‘ound ‘ike fun!” Mary responded with excitement in her voice, “Se’, ‘oes ‘at mean et’s eh’ three-some e’erytime?”

 

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 & ZombieSplitter53
Beyond Design, Part 1

X-COM Headquarters
Psionics Laboratory
August 27th, 1400 Hours

Elene slowly came to, seeming to be more in control when she awakened. She braced herself as she stepped down from the testing pod. “Was it successful?” the heiress inquired.

“It was,” Jeanne quickly said. “You have tested positive for the purple spectrum of psionics. Congradulations.”

Jean nodded. “Very nice. I admit, with the whole clone thing, I was afraid it might not work, but it did.”

Elene smiled slightly, before adding, “And what abilities did I manifest?”

“For the most part, purple psions are able to do what we refer to as a mind-merge, much like the aliens do. It works best with other psions, enhancing their strengths, perception, reflexes, and so on, but it also works with non-psions to a lesser extent.”

“And keep working at it, and you should be able to gain their ability of mesmerism,” Jean added.

The clone held her chin. “Mind merge is interesting...but I have to admit, mesmerism is even more intriguing. I shall have to look into that while I study the other variants as promised.”

Jean smiled. “I’m sure you’ll do well with it. Too bad we don’t have any experienced purple psions. Your best bet is studying footage from the aliens.” He chuckled. “Well, there is one person who has some experience, though I doubt she’d be great as a teacher.”

Elene raised an eyebrow. “And who might that be?”

Jeanne rolled her eyes. “He’s just messing with you. The only one who has had purple psionics for a while is the Commander’s daughter. Six… um, seven year old girls don’t make the best instructors.”

“Still, studying her abilities would be useful, even if she cannot explain them to me.” The heiress looked between the twins, before starting to put on her usual clothing again. “Mind bringing me up to speed on what’s happened while I’ve been unavailable?”

“Well, we found one of the Ethereal’s bases,” Jean answered. “Caught her, too. She’s got her own fancy cell in the alien containment facility.”

“There was… also an incident with your sisters,” Jeanne added hesitantly.

Another subject for study...but… “What...do you mean?” Elene asked apprehensively.

“Most of what we heard was word of mouth,” Jean explained. “As far as we know, the only one who was seriously hurt was an X-COM soldier, Atka. Apparently, they found out another Ethereal was using its ability to possess people. Tried to use some refugee, a kid I think, to attack your sisters, probably to cause the two sides to turn on each other. Atka stopped it.”

“It could not have been easy for Lily...but I will have to thank the captain. I suppose I should feel honored that the extraterrestrials deemed me relevant enough to be considered a threat,” the heiress muttered. “I will check in on them, and then perhaps see what I can learn from other psions.”

“Alright.” Jean offered his hand. “Come by if you need any help. And, um… sorry again about how I acted before.”

“It has been resolved, I bode you no ill will. Especially not now, after you have unlocked this power within me.” Elene shook Jean’s hands, and then glanced a bit to the side, thinking. A muted expression of amusement showed on her face. “I wonder how Markus will react to this,” she wondered.

“One last recommendation before you go,” Jeanne said, remembering something. “The Ethereal probably isn’t going to give you many tips, but we do have a Sectoid that actually helps out in the labs. I’m sure he’d be willing to help you out.”

Elene refocused, seeming slightly embarrassed. “I will be sure to talk to him, then. Curious indeed that we are making allies among the aliens...the only captives were not so cooperative.” Though that is to be expected of the ‘Sectoid Commanders’.