RP XCOM: The Story of Defiance.

[ZombieSplitter53]

Adrammalech & ZombieSplitter53
"New Psion on the Block"

X-COM Headquarters
Barracks, Room of Atka, Sven, Alice, & Co.
September 13th, 1230 Hours

Alice sat on a pillow in front of Sven’s bunk, slowly examining his cybernetic limb. “Have you been experiencing any discomfort?” She asked, making a few adjustments.

“A little, I’ve been chalking it up to adjusting,” Sven replied. “Sometimes it bends a little farther or a little shorter than I expect.”

“I’ll tighten the joints so it doesn’t do that.” As she worked, Alice looked over at Emily. “Um… Emily? Can I ask you something?”

Emily was busy sorting through her drawers and cleaning them when she heard Alice, and glanced casually over from across the bunks at her. “Yeah, what’s up?”

“Can I ask you a question about… something Sunny doesn’t understand. It is about the nature of monogamy and human sexuality.”

“Umm… I’m not an expert, but,” she looked back over at Dallas and smiled modestly, then back. “Sure, I can try to answer.”

Alice scratched her head. “Well… Ammelia’s sister thinks such relations should be open. But Jean told me if you find your special someone, you should stay with them. I have ask a few others, and they seem split. What do you think? Are you and Dallas exclusive to each other, or is your relationship open?”

Alice’s blunt question drew the awkward looks of the other soldiers in the room, and Emily scrambled over to her to talk to her more privately, albeit an uncomfortable looking Sven. She scratched her head and chuckled a bit. “We’re exclusive, and we’re actually trying to keep it… a little secret. Not very well, but we don’t want it spreading around more than it needs to, you know?”

Alice looked between Sven and Emily in confusion. “I… is it because he is a superior? Because I haven’t told anyone else, but… why keep it a secret from your friends? Do you not want our congratulations on the consummation of your relationship?”

Sven shifted uncomfortably, his leg still tethered to the android’s arms. “Well, this is interesting, I guess,” he mumbled.

“It is because he’s a superior,” Emily replied. “Well, supervisor. When you’re a woman with a rank, if people see you sleeping with the person above you, rude people tend to assume that’s how you got every rank.”

Alice thought for a moment. “I… oh… oooh.” Alice shook her head. “I-I’m, sorry, Emily. I didn’t…” She looked at Sven. “I… I was just kidding. Funny joke, yes?”

Sven gave a sarcastically wide smile. “Hilarious.”

“I don’t mind Nika or Sven knowing, they’re not rude people. At least, I hope not,” Emily glared threateningly.

Sven raised his hands up in surrender.

“Or you or Sunny, for that matter,” Emily continued. “Just try to keep it in the circle, hm?”

Alice nodded. “I promise. I will only discuss Emily and Dallas’ sexual relationship with my roommates.”

Hearing it stated plainly sounded much worse, but it is what she asked for. “Um, thanks,” she smiled nervously. “And thank you for your congratulations.”

Alice smiled back. “You are welcome. So… does that mean you belive relationships should be exclusive?”

“It’s more complicated than right and wrong,” Emily said, sitting beside the bed. “I think most people go through a phase where they’re…’exploring.’ Usually it’s to learn about what’s out there, and about what you like. Then once you know, you can settle down into something more permanent.”

“Interesting.” Alice nodded. Exploring… experimentation. That makes sense. When the time comes for me to explore my sexuality, I hope I can count on you and the others to give me tips.”

“Uuuuh…” Aya raised an eyebrow as she poked her head in the room. “Did… am… am I interrupting anything?”

“N-no, just explaining some… interesting points about humanity,” Emily said nervously. “It’s not what it sounds like.”

Aya chuckled. “Whatever it was, it didn’t sound like it was something easy to explain to our blossoming little A.I. here.” She smiled at Emily. “Ms. Fischer, do you mind if a snatch you away for a bit?”

“Sure thing,” Emily said, hoping to her feet. She turned back to Alice and pat her on the back. “Just don’t get a reputation, kid.”

As Alice started to ask Sven the akward question of what that meant, Aya led Emily down the hallway to the main elevator. “I’m sorry we didn’t get to talk earlier, Ms… do you mind if I call you Emily?”

“I prefer it, actually. And sorry, I should’ve stood when you came in. Ever since the...incident, my gestures are getting all weird. Like, I know the components of table salt, but I can’t bow right. Have you ever thought of bowing? It’s weird... ” Emily shook her head and remembered who she was talking to again, “and I’m rambling. Sorry, ma’am.”

Aya chuckled lightly. “That’s okay. I understand. You’ve been through a lot. And I’m not here as a superior. I’m here as a friend.” The elevator arrived at the holo-training room, and she stepped out. “Please refer to me as Aya, at least for now.”

“No problem,” Emily smiled, composing herself again. “So, to what do I owe the visit?”

“As I understand it, you’ve been gaining some new powers from our alien guest.” Aya folded her arms. “I’d like to note that I’m not as worried about it as the Commander, but I’d still like to assist you if at all possible. Would… you mind a display?”

“I could, although I don’t know how impressive it would look from the outside,” Emily replied, stepping into the training room. “It can also be a little difficult to control. Less so since I talked to… it, but still a little unstable.”

Aya nodded. “I understand the risk, Emily. But I’m willing to take it. Why don’t we start with your psi panic. I want you to hit me with your best shot.”

“I’m not sure that’s a great idea, I’ve gone too far with that one before,” she said worriedly.

Aya shook her head. “I don’t expect this to not hurt, Emily. But I need to know the full extent of your power. I trust you not to go too far, even if you don’t trust yourself. Please.”

Emily focused hard on Aya, connecting their minds and trying to send the right emotions to send to her. She tried for a mild uncomfortable feeling, and succeeded a bit as she saw Aya fidgeting. After a few seconds, the power began to progress on its own, the sadistic instinct she felt when practicing with Nika returning. She scanned through memories and fears, finding one that would work, barely registering a rapid blur of guns, blood, and crosses before it was already headed towards Aya’s mind.

Aya’s eyes widened. She grasped her head and screamed, dropping to her knees as tears dripped down her cheeks. “Enough! Please!”

Emily pulled her head away and the link broke, and she shook off the alien influence. She rushed to Aya’s side, the same look of supreme guilt on her face. “I-I’m so sorry, are you okay?”

Aya took several seconds to catch her breath. “I… I-I… I’m okay, I… I just underestimated. I… could handle pain, but… not…” She slowly rose to her feet. “I apologize, Emily. I didn’t mean to worry you. I’m okay, really. I asked you for your best, after all.”

“I-I can’t seem to change or limit an ability too much. Panic is naturally offensive, and once I start…I feel like I have to throw everything I have into it.”

Aya nodded. “I understand. Maybe…” she sighed. “Maybe speaking with the alien isn’t that bad of an idea if it truly helps.” Aya scratched the back of her neck. “Um… how much did you see inside… me?”

“I didn’t really understand it until I was already exploiting it… but um, I saw a church, I think. Lots of gunmen and lots of blood...”

“Yeah…” Aya shook her head. “Let’s just say I… I was going to get married once, but it… didn’t happen…”

“I’m sorry,” Emily looked down, “I didn’t mean to…”

“I told you, it’s okay.” Aya placed a hand on her shoulder. “That was really impressive, Emily. Do you… mind one more? Maybe showing off your rift ability?”

“I could, but you should get clear,” she said nervously. “Just in case.”

Aya nodded and walked over to the computer. She materialized a couple of Sectoids. “Now, these, you don’t have to hold back on. I adjusted the sensors, so they should react like the real things.”

Emily focused again on the tiny aliens, her hostility towards the little Sectoids meshing much better with the psionic attack. The air began to twirl around her and quickly solidified into a violet tinged whirlwind, lifting them off their feet. In a matter of moments, they were revolving around her as quickly as a moving car, their holographic limbs swinging wildly and trying to grab onto things inside the purple storm. With a swing of her arms, the whirlwind broke apart and threw the Sectoids in the direction they were going, their bodies crashing hard into the walls.

“Very nice, Emily.” Aya walked to her side, placing a hand on her shoulder. “You have a lot of potential. But I can see how you might be held back. I hate to admit it, as I said, but… just do my a favor. Use the Ethereal, Emily. Promise me you won’t let it use you.”

“I have the feeling it already is somehow, or it wouldn’t help in the first place,” Emily stated. “But I’m using it, too.”

Aya nodded. “Alright. I have some reports to file. I’ll be sure to include my faith in you abilities. I… I hope we can train our abilities together sometime.”

“Thank you,” she nodded. “Hopefully, mine will be more ‘mine’ by then.”

 

[MarineAvenger]

Reliving the Past Part 1 (MarineAvenger and ZombieSplitter53)

XCOM Base, Siberia
Commander's Office
September 13th, 2018
1500 Hours

Desmond walked to the Commander’s office with a nervous and excited stride as he neared the office. He nodded at Peggy and put his hands behind his back. “May I see the Commander? I have news for her.”

“What’s up,” Morrigan asked, walking in from the hallway a second later, Brigid holding her hand.

He turned a gave a small smile. “I have gotten word from my contact. The clans are ready when we are for the meeting.”

“Excellent,” Morrigan responded. “When can they get here?”

“It will take about a day for them to arrive, so we have time. We don’t have to meet them in the base if that would be easier for you. These guys aren’t too particular but we just have to appear presentable.”

Morrigan thought for a moment, then shook her head. “No, the first step to any union is a sign of trust. One I will show by welcoming them into my home. How many should I expect?”

Desmond began to think and he came up with a number. “Well...there are three clan leaders. These guys won’t go anywhere public without a guard so expect two guards per leader. That makes nine total. On our side it would be the two of us but Aya or anyone else you would like are more than welcome.”

“Aya will be there. I have to think of who else. Aya will likely request security.” She nodded. “Alright. Contact them, and ask them to get here when they can. And I would prefer if they arrived at roughly the same time. I’ll get the meeting room ready here.”

Desmond nodded. “Meanwhile, I might as well and bring you up to speed on a few things. Some small things and just what to expect with each leader.”

Morrigan nodded, and led Desmond into her office. She sat behind her desk and grabbed a notepad as Brigid climbed into her lap. “Alright, Mr. Walker. I’m all ears.”

Desmond put a leg over his other and put his hands together. “Well, first things first, you may not know it but you already have a lot of respect from the leaders, though they won’t show it. People in command always have some respect among the leaders. And, although they might seem hostile at first, they really aren’t being mean, they just try to intimidate others to judge their worth.”

“I see,” Morrigan simply said. “I understand. I’ll be sure not to take anything personal. Wouldn’t be the first time I’ve met with someone like that. You should have seen the people who interviewed me for this job.”

Desmond smiled, “I am sure they were wonderful people. Now, onto the individual leaders themselves. Hideki Toshiro is the leader of the Toshiro clan. 37, spiritual, really most of the members there focus on the zen arts. Yamineko Fujigara is the leader of the Fujigara clan. 56, intellectual, their members are historians, philosophers and mathematicians. Last but not least…” Desmond hesitated but took a deep breath. “Saka Hatake is the leader of the Hatake clan. She is only 17, very free spirited and cheerful, her clan are the muscle of the three. She also happens to be...I guess you could say a childhood friend for whatever that is worth.”

“A friend of yours, huh?” Morrigan rubbed her chin.

“So she’s still not grown up?” Brigid asked, following along as best she could. “How come she’s the boss?”

“And of the muscle to boot?” Morrigan added.

“Think me but much more sensitive and girly. She may only be seventeen but she was given the honor of becoming a ward for my clan. That is how we met. She was basically the one who always pushed me to do things and idolized me whenever I did something new. Though, when the enclave was attacked, I thought I saw her die, only to find not too long ago that she survived and is now in command.”

“How much of the clan survived,” Morrigan asked, intrigued.

“I didn’t tell you before?” Desmond scratched his head. “Me and Saka were the only survivors that I know of out of the forty members.”

Morrigan sat back. “You did, but… but with you back with Exalt, does that mean this girl in her mid-teens had to… and was able to rebuild the entire clan by herself?”

Desmond shook his head. “Allow me to clear up any confusion.” He took the pendant off his neck and asked for a piece of paper and pen. Putting the pendant in the middle of the paper, he drew three other symbols. “My clan was the Otohara as you know. When we were attacked, the other clans would not know about it until it was too late, so as far as they were concerned, every Otohara was dead, including me.” Desmond took a moment to gather his thoughts.

“I don’t know specifics but there was in fighting for a time before the three leaders decided to work together in a new goal, restore the Otohara. The problem being not just anyone would be able to take control, they needed an actual clan member with a claim to the position. Tradition is very serious among them. Saka wouldn’t be able to take the claim because she wasn’t a member, she was just a guest. Her duties would lay with the Hatakes. Now that I have revealed myself as not only a member but the actual student of the Grand Master’s son, that carries great weight. Only now, can I begin to rebuild my clan to it’s former glory.”

Morrigan nodded. “I see.” She folded her hands and smiled. “I hope this friend of yours was happy to hear from you. My guess is she thought you were dead, just as you had thought she was.”

“As far as I know, the clan leaders don’t even know who I am exactly. Once Saka sees me, she will most likely vouch on my behalf and the pendant is also proof of my legitimacy.” Desmond smiled. “All in all, I think this will be worthwhile for both of us.” Desmond quickly added, “Aya is half Japanese right? Can she speak the language?”

Morrigan shrugged. “Well, uh… somewhat. Though I’m afraid it is a second language for her. But she’ll be able to follow along well enough. Not that it matters. It isn’t like her blond hair will trick them into think she’s full blooded.”

“Blood doesn’t matter much to them, but more of merit. Saka isn’t even Japanese, she was adopted. And I wasn’t Japanese, look how I turned out.” He did an over exaggerated pose for Brigid to keep her interested. “I only ask out of curiosity. Japanese is another one of my many talents, albeit one I don’t get to use often.”

Brigid leaned forward and asked, “When did you see her last?”

“Not since...I left. It has been a couple of years so she must have grown up a lot in that time.” Desmond did his best to recall what her face looked like but all he got was a fuzzy image. “I barely even remember what she even looked like.”

Brigid frowned. “What if she isn’t how you remember her?”

A small smile formed on Desmond’s face. “In the three years I knew her, she never changed a bit. If she did...just means I get to know her all over again.”

Brigid smiled back, and Morrigan ruffled her hair. “Well, I look forward to doing the same. I think I’m ready. Please make those calls. And I’ll obviously be counting on you too.”

Desmond nodded. “Morrigan...I already know that you will try to be modest about this but what you are doing...you are giving me back a part of my life I thought I would never get back. I really am grateful to you.”

“Whether you realize it or not, I am only too happy to help.” The Commander grinned. “Not that I wouldn’t mind any help your powerful friends can provide, of course.”

Desmond grinned and nodded, “Funny, seems I am becoming a Commander myself in a way.” He stood up and typed a bit into his wrist computer. “Sora has already sent out the call. For now we wait.” Desmond got close to the desk and smiled warmly at Brigid. “Didn’t you say you had some new pictures you wanted to show me? I have time on my hands now.”

Brigid jumped from her mother’s lap, running up to Desmond and dragging him out and towards her room.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Reliving the Past Part 2 (MarineAvenger and ZombieSplitter53)

(September 14th, 1600 Hours)

In the meeting room, the three clan leaders gathered around the table and took their respective seats, their two personal guards standing back near the wall. On the right side of the table, a middle aged Japanese man sat, wearing a robe of dark blue, the colors of the Toshiro clan. At the foot of the table sat a wrinkled woman wearing a purple kimono with gold accents, the colors of the Fujigaras, and sitting at the left side, wearing dark green fatigues like something out of an old ninja movie sat a teenage girl, the leader of the Hatakes, all three leaders eagerly awaiting their expected company.

Morrigan and Aya walked in, a trio of Legion guards following them in. Hoping someone in the room could translate for her, Morrigan started, “I… I would like to start by welcoming each of you to X-COM HQ. This is Aya Brea, my second in command. The guards are some of our other guests android guards, completely loyal, and nothing you say will go past them with them here. I figured they’d be more trustworthy than normal guards.”

All three of the leaders bowed and sat back down. “I will be translating for my Mistress if that is alright with you?” One of the guards spoke up from behind the Fujigara leader.

“As I for my Master.” Another spoke from behind the Toshiro leader.

“And I can speak perfectly fine by my own accord.” Saka announced.

Morrigan took a seat of her own, Aya sitting next to her. “Now, the man that arranged for us to all meet today will be here momentarily. Are we… all clear why we are here today?”

All three nodded. Yamineko Fujigara spoke into her translator’s ear and he stood up straight. “Yes, we are here to see if this upstart is really who he claims to be. We do hope that you have not wasted our time if this is indeed a fool’s errand.”

“I don’t believe you did,” Aya responded. “We have it on good authority that Mr. Walker is who he says he is. His past checks out… a-as much of it as we could confirm, anyway.” Aya tried to hide the realization that their faith in Desmond didn’t translate well when trying to vouch to clan leaders.

Saka jumped up from her seat, the chair rolling back a foot or two. “Wha...what did you just just say?” Her face had equal measure confusion and worry.

All heads turned however as the doors opened and Desmond walked in. His attire was completely different than what he normally wore, a black tactical vest over top a black T-shirt and matching color jeans. The boots he were wearing made almost no sound as he strode into the room, the long trench coat over all of it lifting up slightly behind him. On his neck, the silver pendant with leather strap was shown prominently. “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

The girl standing up looked like she had seen the scariest sight in the world she slowly took a few steps forward. “Y-you? You are the one…” When she stood in front of Desmond, she rose a shaky hand towards his face. Just before she touched him, her face grew angry and she slapped Desmond hard across the face, earning the girl to turn around in pain, shaking her hand.

“Oh my,” Aya mumbled, hold her hand over her mouth in surprise.

“Best of friends, huh?” Morrigan muttered.

Aya stood up. “Ms. Hatake, is everything okay?” She asked, folding her arms angrily.

Saka turned back towards Desmond, her angry face holding for a few moments before she threw her arms around Desmond. “I always knew you were alive...you promised me you would come back…”

Desmond smiled lightly. “Nice to see you too old friend.”

The two other leaders looked at each other warily, and both looked at the two.

Saka quickly sat down embarrassed and Desmond walked to the table, rubbing his cheek. “Now that that is over we can get down to business. My name is Desmond Walker, student and friend of the Otoharan heir.” Desmond took the pendant off his neck and slid it across the table towards Yamineko.

She took the pendant and inspected it closely. Her face slowly grew more surprised as she twirled the pendant in her hand over and over, making sure she didn’t make a mistake.

Hideki Toshiro leaned into his translator and the man nodded. “We ask a simple question, are you indeed a member of our lost clan?”

Desmond nodded his head. “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.”

Hideki took in Desmond’s words carefully and after a brief period of silence he slowly nodded his head. “Tell...truth.” The Japanese man made out, as if the English was leaving a bad taste in his mouth.

Yamineko spoke fast in her translator’s ear and threw the pendant back at Desmond, which he caught with his hand and put back around his neck. The translator cleared his voice. “The-there is no way that is a replica.”

Aya slowly sat back down. Morrigan smiled. “And I feel it is safe to assume Ms. Hatake also believes Mr. Walker’s claim?”

Saka nodded immediately. “No doubt...he is still the same slacker that I remember.”

Desmond stared at Saka which earned him a wink. The three leaders nodded at one another and each stood up, gathering around Desmond and kneeling before him.

The translators and even the guards did so as well. “My Mistress pledges full support to Mr. Walker.” The Fujigara translator stated.

“As does my Master.” The Toshiro one added.

“Need you even ask me?” Saka asked.

Desmond crossed his arms and looked at Aya and Morrigan with a smile on his face. “And I accept. From here on out, the Otohara clan is reestablished, and is taking it’s rightful place as ruler of the four clans. Any objections?” There were none. “Then rise.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Reliving the Past Part 3 (MarineAvenger and ZombieSplitter53)

The leaders stood and moved back to their seats. “Now Commander, any questions for our new allies?” Desmond asked.

Morrigan blinked rapidly. Aya leaned in close and whispered, “Why can’t it be that easy for us?”

The Commander took a few moments to compose herself, having been caught by surprise. “I, um… we… we were hoping you could offer X-COM assistance. As we have been told, your reach is quite extensive.”

After it was translated, Yamineko nodded and told her translator what to say. “We have contacts throughout the world. Some for general world news and other for more...sensitive matters.”

The other translator added to that. “And we have many allies with in multiple religious factions as well.”

Saka looked at the Commander. “And our warriors are the best around, in general combat, espionage and even training.”

“Good… good…” Aya looked up at Desmond. “Can… can we talk for a moment?”

Desmond raised an eyebrow and nodded. “Yeah, of course.” He walked up to Aya and leaned down. “What is it?”

“I… I feel weird about this,” Aya whispered.

Morrigan nodded. “We aren’t taking advantage of these people, are we?”

Desmond pursed his lips. “From the reports I have collected, these guys needed this. Before the clan got wiped up they had a general purpose. When the clan was gone, so was their purpose. We are giving them a new beginning, as well as getting help in return. I know you guys might have some skepticism but I haven’t led you astray yet, I don’t plan to now.”

Aya and Morrigan both thought for a moment, then nodded together. Looking back at the others, Morrigan said, “Alright. We would like information, any you can provide. We’re not only dealing with the aliens, but EXALT as well.”

“And you have warriors, Hatake.” Aya smiled. “If we can send you an occasional mission, something that would take advantage of their unique skills…”

Saka nodded enthusiastically. “You got it! I could have a couple of my more modernly trained guys ready to work for you guys...but I have a price.”

Aya nodded. “We’re willing to compensate any way we can.”

Saka smiled. “I want to join XCOM with my soldiers as well. Full time.”

Desmond nearly tripped over himself and he stared at Saka with disbelief.

Morrigan scratched her chin. “Well, we… it is kinda unorthodox. We don’t have many people under eighteen. None as soldiers.” She glanced at Desmond. “Can you vouch for her qualifications?”

“Um...well, uh, yeah, she is a good fighter but…”

“See! He called me a good fighter so it has to be true!” She crossed her arms, satisfied.

“Wait a minute, it has been years since I last saw you fight.” He protested.

“Which means I could have only gotten better.” She pointed out.

“What about your short attention span?”

She crossed her arms. “I remember a certain someone who was like that as well at one point…”

“Because of you!”

“I thought you trusted me?” She replied, a little hurt in her voice.

Desmond sighed and rubbed his eyes. She really hasn’t changed. “What about your clan duties?”

Saka wove her hand dismissively. “You kidding me, these guys have been trying to find a replacement for me since day one.”

Desmond looked at the other leaders and the translators nodded at each other. “They could find a suitable replacement from the clan.”

Desmond tried to argue further but he eventually sighed in bitter defeat.

Morrigan covered her mouth, not wanting to insult Desmond by letting him see her smile. Aya couldn’t help but show it, and said, “Well, there is an physical exam for entry, but as long as you pass it, you’re in.”

Saka looked over herself and smiled. “If that lump could pass it then I can with flying colors!”

Desmond growled a little under his breath.

She smiled cokily and gave another wink at Desmond. “I would like to start as soon as possible, I already have most of my stuff with me already.”

“You planned on staying from the start?” Desmond stated baffled.

Saka nodded. “Well, yeah. I always talked about wanting to join something bigger than just the clans and this is my opportunity to. I won’t pass it up.” She smiled at Aya and Morrigan. “With your permission of course.”

Morrigan and Aya nodded, standing up. “Alright. I think this was a successful meeting.” She smiled at the other clan leaders. “I hope that you can join me for dinner before you leave us.”

The two clan leaders stood up and bowed along with the guards. “The leaders would be honored to, in honor of our new alliance together.” The leaders exited the room, Desmond, Aya and Morrigan left alone.

Desmond fell in his chair like a sack of rocks and rubbed his face. “Well...that went well for the most part.” He looked over his attire and shook his head. “I remember when I had to wear this all the time...makes me feel nostalgic a bit.”

Morrigan chuckled. “Where did you get that thing anyway?”

“Back during the mission to extract my sisters, I managed to visit my old cell. Grabbed a duffel bag and filled it with most of my stuff. Couple of books, a couple of pairs of clothes which I still haven’t worn, this, and these.” He pulled his cloak aside and pulled two revolvers off him, on on the left side of his hip and the other out of a holster attached to his right side. He laid them on the table. “These were gifts from Lusett. Never got to use them before. Honestly, I don’t plan to.” The two revolvers were Chiappa Rhino long barrel models, gun metal black and identical.

Morrigan shrugged. “I don’t know. Might be kinda cool to see you fire those off.”

Aya nodded in agreement. “I’m sorry about your friend. I… hope she didn’t embarrass you.”

Desmond waved his hand dismissively. “She embarrasses me no more than your sister, or Ryan or anyone else for that matter. To be honest, I just want her to be safe. She is a close friend of mine after all, it is nice to see her again.” He picked up one of the revolvers and popped out the actual revolving cylinder. “I may see Sunny sometime for some gauss rounds, just in case.” He stood up and cracked his back. “We should get going, we have dinner to attend to and I am sure you guys will be flooded with work.”

Both woman frowned, upset to be reminded of that as the trio headed out.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

"Red Jasmine" - Atka Ipiktok

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
1045 Hours, September 15th, 2018
Memorial Wall, the Barracks

Atka gazed up at the list of names on the clinically-clean board, counting them silently. Thirty soldiers were now dead, five of them having lost their lives yesterday. And one of them was under my command. The Inuit woman rested a hand on her forehead, rubbing it more intently than she needed to. "I'm sorry, Airi...I should have realized there were too many on overwatch, and drawn the fire myself."

But no amount of lamentation would bring back the engineer. Although Atka considered her 'six' -Sarah, Janina, Kevin, Kris, Ayame, and Amanda- to be her squad, with Modya and his rocketeer friends tagging along occasionally, the scout had fought alongside the Japanese grenadier on more than one occasion. It was with her that Delta Team had breached the alien cybernetics facility and freed Yaralria. Airi was present for the majority of the New Delhi Campaign, dutifully breaching walls and watching everyone's back.

Just like that, she was gone. All it took was one misstep, one loosening of the grip, and Airi Fujioka had died horribly to her own weapons. "What am I supposed to tell her family..." Atka mumbled.

"Tell them about all the good things Airi did," Janina Adolfsson suggested from the doorway. "Don't blame yourself for this. You can never expect war to be flawless."

"I was the one that gave that order...if I hadn't..." Atka shook her head. "Maybe they would have shot Amanda, but she could have taken the hit."

"Or a rocket would have blown our cover to bits and made minced meat out of us," the German infantry responded."There's no sense in asking what would have happened if you did something different. We can't change the past, Atka," Janina firmly stated, forsaking the use of rank or last names to get through to her CO.

"Would...would you say the same if it were you, though? Would you have me tell..." Atka quickly hung her head. "I'm not being fair, asking that."

"I would have you say the same thing to my sisters," the infantry replied, unfazed. "If I die heroically, tell them, but if I die in such a sad way... just remind them of the good, not the bad. But never blame yourself, Atka. Improve, learn what you can from it, but never that. Even if her family ended up hating you..." Janina sat down beside Atka. "It wouldn't make them feel better, nor would it be good for your health."

Atka straightened her posture, looking up again. "Thank you, Janina."

"Major sounds good on you, sir," the infantry added.

Atka rubbed the back of her neck. "I just hope it's based on actual effectiveness and not just power..."

Janina raised an eyebrow incredulously. "Do you even need to ask that?" After a swish of her head to accent her point, the German continued, "Speaking of power however, Wong wants to talk to you. Something about that ability you used with the knife." She smiled. "And they all want to make sure you're okay."

"I'll be alright...though I'm starting to feel the fatigue from a war like this..."

"Yeah," Janina said somberly. "At least you're not alone. And I hear Foulke's being looked at for promotion to officer, in addition to the double promotion for a mission well done."

"I hope you get considered at some point, Janina. After all, I'm probably going to be sent after one of those Ethereal Overseers eventually. If I'm taking two teams, you'd have my back as my second, at least more officially," Atka explained with a gentle smile.

"Maybe. We would go on fewer missions together, in general. Though Maggie's not a bad shot, of course. And she makes the Seekers weep oil."

"Vivid picture. Kevin said that, didn't he?" the Inuit woman guessed.

Janina chuckled in response, and stood up. "Let's go rejoin the others.

1100 Hours, September 14th, 2018
Pool Room, the Barracks

"Oh, to hell with you Modya," Kevin cursed as the Russian sunk the eight ball. "How?"

"Pratice, skill, and patience," Modya responded with a poorly-hidden smirk.

"Something you lack, Kevin," Amanda explained.

"Don't need the comedy, robocop," the assault muttered.

"...creative..." Gabriel decided after a moment of confused silence.

Atka smiled at the former soldier as she walked in. “Glad to see you on your feet again.”

Gabriel glanced down at his legs, moving them slightly and certainly enjoying the feeling, although there was a slightly noticeable delay. “Thank you, Major. It feels...good to walk again.”

“And we’re, of course, glad to see that you’re alright,” Amanda added. “I know how rough it is on you after this long, Atka.”

The Inuit woman nodded. “It won’t be in vain, though. We’re getting closer every day…”

“You think Superbia’s the final boss?” Kevin asked.

“Unlikely. There has to be a true leader,” Sarah spoke simply.

“Even so, we will win this,” Modya stated. “Cannot have my childr…” There was a bit of an odd, brief pause. “...grow up in a world terrorized by aliens.”

Kevin punched Modya in the shoulder. “Jessica and you with your secrets. Out with it!”

“I am a bit interested, though not as...forward as Kevin,” Janina added, giving the assault a tired look.

Kevin stepped back, and Modya shook his head. “Alright...it’s twins.”

“Sounds like a handful,” Amanda responded. “I can’t imagine how mom and dad would have coped if me and Gabe were born at the same time.”

“It would mostly be you...I’m the good one,” Gabriel said, receiving a roll of the eyes from his sister.

“The staid one.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

ZombieSplitter53 and DarkGemini24601: “The Artificial Condition”

X-COM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
Primary Lab, Work Area of Dr. Sonya Randolf
September XX, 0900 Hours

Jean cried out as her rushed to the prone form of Alice’s adult body, looking as though he might burst into tears. “What… what have you done to my work! My art!”

Sunny looked down, her A.I. occupying her younger body. “I’m sorry, Jean, I…”

“What did you do, roll around in acid and fire?!” He lifted one of the arms, the flesh completely melted off it.

Sunny looked up from Bandersnatch, which between the plasma fire and psi lance, was lucky to be in one piece. “Hey, be nice to her. She didn’t get eaten on purpose, she was pushing another soldier out of the way. I don’t care if the body is totaled, I’m just glad to get her back.”

Jean slowly lowered the arm. “I… you’re right, I am sorry.”

Alice smiled. “I was saving Eva…”

“You were?” Jean looked away, feeling guilty for yelling at her for doing what he asked her to do, not to mention putting her in danger with the order. “I see.” He took a moment to compose himself, and turned back with a big smile. “Well then, I’ll just have to make it better then ever, won’t I?”

Alice slowly nodded, and Sunny sighed. “You’ll get your chance, but I have a lot of work to do first. The stomach acid corroded and destroyed some of the muscle, the brain is still bugged from plugging into that computer, and I’ll have to replace a third of the circuitry, which was fried when the electrocuted that thing.” She shook her head as she continued her work on the SHIV. “I’m going to install so kind of electric absorbers. It is a miracle your entire CPU wasn’t wiped.”

Alice nodded again, and jumped down. “I’m going to rest… or something.” She looked down sheepishly. I know there is work to do, but…”

Jean waved his hand as he sat by one of the computers. “Please do. You deserve some R and R as much as anyone else, A.I. or not.”

Alice left engineering and started walking the base, unsure what to do. She had been feeling lost for days now, even before the mission, and she didn’t know how to deal with it. Not paying attention, she walked with no destination in mind, until she realized she wasn’t sure what part of the base she was in.

The sound of plasma suddenly sounded, as a different-looking mech deflected a Mechtoid’s fire with a collapsable shield. Feigning damage to the shield, the MESHA lowered it, and instead knelt forward a bit, being surrounded by the Mechtoid, a cyberdisc, and a regular Sectopod with a total escort of six drones. The module on the robot’s back opened, and a burst of modified electricity shot in a bubble around it.

The drones collectively exploded, the cyberdisc crashed to the ground, the Mechtoid fell forward, and the Sectopod reeled. Seeming satisfied, the MESHA flared up a kinetic strike module, and ran behind the cyberdisc, knocking it into the Mecthoid and blowing both up. With only the Sectopod left, it pulled out a pulse lance, and fired until a hole had been cut through the titan.

“End simulation,” came the muffled voice from within the suit, and the ruined alien robots disappeared in a burst of light.

“Whoa…” Alice watched the display from the side of the room, immediately noting the difference between them. She looked down at her small hands, realizing this body was very different from her other one, and wondered if she had made a mistake in her design. As she rose her head again, she realized she had been noticed. “Oh, um… hi…”

The suit turned for a moment, its metallic head regarding the other A.I. “Ah, Alice,” the voice from inside said, and the suit powered down. The front hissed open, and a whir of sparks heralded the reconnecting of Avanix’s regular limbs. “I had heard your primary form was damaged.”

“Oh, mo… Avanix…” Alice nodded. “Y-yeah, it is a little bit… melted. Good thing Sunny made this one for me two, huh?” She did a small curtsy. “It isn’t combat ready, but it… it’s a body.”

Was she going to say ‘mother?’ Curious. “I have been told that some find the younger form odd, but I see nothing unusual about it. Especially considering who your creator is,” Avanix stated with a slight smile.

“I… I suppose.” Again, Alice looked down at her hands. “Though I prefer the older body. I can do more to help people with it. I can’t do much like this except run errands. It… I can’t fight or defend anyone like I have… like I’m supposed… l-like I w-want to…”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

“You are unsure of your directive,” Avanix decided.

“Maybe.” Alice slowly lowered her hands, and looked up at the more mature A.I. “A-according to Sunny, I don’t really have one. Once I completed my initial design, that of her assistant, and her companion, she told me I could do whatever I wanted. I decided I would help people, maybe even… become like them. At least, I think I did. I’m unsure if…” She shook her head, not sure how to word it.

“If you actually have the power to choose?” Avanix mused. “I do wonder that sometimes… after Lusett died, the only logical course for me seemed to be to assist her daughter...but that is what I had been told to do.”

“So… you don’t have a choice?” Alice asked, taking a step forward. “You do it because of your programming, or because you want to? Does Elene make you assist her? Does she even have to, or does your program force you to want to help?”

“I…” the original paused. “I have felt that which one would call a ‘motherly instinct’, I believe. Elene does not force me to protect her, but I have felt that protective instinct grow over time. It could be programmed in...it would not be a surprise. Yet...I am unsure. Free will is not a concept easily understood by us.”

“No…. it isn’t…” Alice crouched down, slowly tracing her finger across the floor. “Humans take it for granted. The can be whatever they want, do whatever they choose. They can help, hurt, save lives, take lives, cherish one another, or by hateful. And it is all up to them. Sunny says I do to. That my programming allows it. But does it?” She looked up, as though Avanix would have the answer, even though she knew she wouldn’t. “Some… subliminal messaging aside, humans know they have free will because it is a part of them.” She sat down, and rubbed her arms nervously. “But do I? Do I make a choice because I want to, or because I’m programmed to think it is a choice? Do I like humans because I will it, or is it something ordering me? What if… what if it a lie?” She curled up, rocking slightly. “What if he was right? What if Sunny has been lying to me? What if they all are?”

“The final assumptions would be incorrect, or at least unlikely enough as to be ignored,” Avanix responded. “It is similar to when humans ask if existence is what we observe it to be: if it is not, then everything we base our knowledge on is a lie, and that is incomprehensible even for me.” Avanix thought for a moment. “If the doctor believes your programming is designed for free will, then unless she is unknowingly in error, it should be. Either that, or free will itself is a folly...and as I said before, that assumption creates too many errors.”

Alice shook her head. “I’m… I’m not worried about the existence of free will, or Sunny’s capacity to program it, or at least something resembling it. I’m afraid she wouldn’t do it.” Alice closed her eyes. “A little while ago, a man approached me, right after I got my body. He proposed the idea that I could have been deceived, and Sunny only said I have free will, and I’m being controlled like any other piece of equipment. Then I met a soldier, and she was afraid of me at first. We are on good terms now, but if she was afraid of me becoming as dangerous as the alien machines, who is to say Sunny doesn’t have that same fear? For all I know, I am still following a ‘serve humans’ program. And should she find out I’m thinking like this, she… she might…”

“I could run a diagnostic on you with Legion equipment,” Avanix offered. “But I did come to one issue with that theory. You were going to call me ‘mother’, were you not? I imagine you were not programmed to say that.”

Sunny looked up in surprise. “I… no, I wasn’t…” She climbed to her feet and bowed her head slightly. “I’m sorry, Avanix. I know you are not my mother. I… I do not know why I think of you that way, I just… do. I just thought, considering it was the research that created you that eventually led to my creation… I hope I did not insult you.”

Avanix smiled. “Of course not. You are based from my program, in part, and are younger in chronological terms as well. That is not an unreasonable conclusion. Though I would find it odd to define Sora in the same manner, considering the more...dare I say human attitude he views me in?”

Alice tilted her head, “I’m not sure what you mean? He thinks of you like… a sister? Or do you mean he sees you as human?”

“Neither. He...I am unsure of the intent. It could be an attempt to behave more human, it could be his odd personality, but he displays the sort of behavior that a human would show when having romantic interest in a woman.”

Alice smiled. “Really. B-because I have been studying subjects on human interaction, romantic relationships, and sexual behavior. Would you be… interested in pursuing a relationship with him, if that is indeed his intent?”

“I wonder…” Avanix held her chin in thought. “It is not a regular consideration for an A.I., I would imagine. At the moment, the last form of behavior you mentioned would be impossible by normal means...but...it would be an interesting experiment of sorts.”

Alice nodded vigorously. “I, too, have decided to eventually seek such a relationship…” She looked down at herself. “Um… in my other body, that is. It is not what I was originally programmed for, as I was originally a hologram, but when I asked Sunny if… if I could…” Alice brow furrowed in thought. “She said… she said she couldn’t say anything, because it was… my choice, and she’d support me either way…”

Avanix shrugged. “This body could do the same, though obviously Sora does not yet have a form. Is there anyone in particular you have considered approaching? One that would not judge you for what you are, I imagine.”

Alice shook her head. “Not yet. One did make a proposition to me, but I was not ready or comfortable, and she did not push. I am… I suppose you could say I am waiting for the ‘right one’.”

“Understandable. Though I do not pretend to be an expert in such matters,” Avanix responded. “Neither was Elene, but she seemed to find love anyway...so I am confident you will, too.”

“Thank you.” Alice kicked her feet at nothing in particular. “I guess, if I was as bound to my programming as I fear, I wouldn’t be so interested in such things. Maybe… I was wrong to have such doubts.”

“Doubt is a part of learning. Undue confidence in everything leads to arrogance, which causes mistakes. It is better to deal with uncertainty now, when it can be resolved,” Avanix responded stoically.

“I guess that is true, but…” Alice rubbed her arm nervously. “Now I… feel guilty for doubting my best friend. Like… really, really guilty…”

“I’m sure she would understand. It is difficult for us to adapt, especially when we were originally intended for functions other than war or research.”

“Good point.” Alice rocked back and forth on her feet. “So, um… what were you planning on doing now?”

“That depends. Do you require anything else of me? I do not have anything in particular to manage right now,” Avanix stated.

Alice shook her head. “No. I… actually don’t have anything to do. I was wondering if… you could show me where you work. Y-you know, for… the sake of learning… and what… not…”

“Of course,” Avanix replied. “This way.” Alice grasped her mothers hand, squeezing it tightly as they walked out.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

DarkGemini24601, Frostlich1228, & ZombieSplitter
Pain of Duty, Gift of Friendship

X-COM Headquarters
Primary Infirmary
Room 212, Room of Thomas, Mary, and Akizuki, Marina

Ayame slowly opened her eyes, having dozed off while watching over Mary. She looked at her injured friend, and watched her sleep for a while. She wondered if this was how Mary and the others felt when she was in that bed. Mary might not have needed surgery, but that poison had been a close call.

Outside the door, Ayame could hear to people, a man and a woman, talking. “Practically unrecognizable. What a terrible way to go,” the man said.

“Not how I’d like to bite it,” the woman responded.

“Heard the CO was broken up.”

Marina shifted uncomfortably. “Wish they’d keep it down. Patients are resting.”

“Tell me about it.” Ayame looked over at the other woman. “You were in that Ethereal mission, right?”

Marina nodded. “Yeah. Got knocked out before the end. This is first time I’ve been awake.” She looked over. “Her?”

“Extraction, just before you guys started getting ready.” Ayame wiped a hair from Mary’s eyes, watching intently as the woman started to stir.

Mary opened her eyes slowly as she took in the room around her before focusing on Ayame. She tried to sit up and look down at her injury but a searing pain in her stomach caused her to give up quickly. “A-Ay’me.”

“Don’t move.” Ayame gently rubbed Mary’s cheeks. “You… that was such a great thing you did, you know that? I’m so proud of you.”

“Eh’ ‘asn’t ‘bout te’... ‘et ‘er get ‘anked…” Mary replied with pain in her voice, “‘Ow bad ‘es ‘et?”

Ayame grabbed Mary’s chart. “It says you… um… it… it says…”

“Let me see it,” Marina offered. Ayame looked at Mary for permission.

Mary nodded slowly, the pain in her stomach growing subtlely worse the longer she was awake.

Ayame handed Marina the chart. After a moment, the young support said, “Well, the stab wasn’t too bad. It knicked your intestines, but it was easy to fix. Um… oh my, the knife had a poison on it. These EXALTs fight dirty.”

Ayame gave her a concerned look. “A poison. I-Is she going to be okay?”

Marina read the chart for a few more moments. “Not a poison, actually, but a toxin. Some kind of hemotoxin.” She gave them a cautious smile. “She… she should be okay, but she really needs to take it easy. These toxins kill blood cells and cause severe tissue damage. Even with immediate treatment…” She shook her head. “I’m sorry. She’ll be fine, really, thanks to our medical advancements. But you are going to be in pain for a while, until you can fully heal. So don’t do anything reckless.”

“‘E-Eh ‘ink at’ll be easy… E’ery ‘ovement ‘urts ‘ight ‘ow…” Mary replied, a few beads of sweat falling down her forehead.

Ayame grabbed a nearby cloth and dipped it in a small bucket of water. Placing it over Mary’s brow, she dipped her hand in the bucket and shook her head. “I’ll be right back. This is a bit too warm.”

Ayame rushed out with the water bucket, nearly tripping over a chair as she went. Marina smiled. “She seems like a really good friend.”

“Y-yeh…” The Gunner replied, gritting her teeth a little, “She’s ‘ore en’ ‘at ‘ough…”

“What… what do you mean?” Marina asked, slipping out of her bed and pushing the door closed, the loud people in the hallway distracting her.

“‘Eh ‘ove ‘er.” Mary said, wanting to face Marina but the pain was too much.

“Well, if she is that good of…” Marina trailed off as she slipped into her bed. “Oh… oh, you mean… ooohhh…” Marina blushed a bit.

Mary couldn’t stop herself from giggling a little, the pain shooting up into her chest when she did, “She’s… R-’Reat ‘en ‘ed te…”

Marina laughed. “R-really. That, uh… that’s… ahem…” Marina shook her head. “Wow, um… you’re about as blunt as my sister…”

“...Airi.” She heard one of the doctors say outside as Ayame stepped in with fresh water. “Not much left to…”

Ayame closed it again, and sat next to Mary. “Sorry, sorry, I, uh…” She looked down at her soaked shirt. “I kinda tripped on my way back. But I asked someone to tell your sister you’re awake. And to tell Vee as well, since she’s our mutual friend.” She took the towel and dipped it in the nice, cold water, ringing it out and placing back onto Mary.

The relief came instantly as the cool towel touched Mary’s head. “Se’ ‘at’re ye’ ‘en for?” Mary spoke towards Marina.

Marina didn’t seemed to hear her, her eyes wide as she stared at the door, her body starting to shake a little. She opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out.

“De’ ye’ not ‘ant te’ talk ‘bout ‘et?” Mary said, looking up at Ayame for the answers.

Marina shook her head. “I… I um… I was on the Ethereal mission with… with my sister, but I was… knocked unconscious while we were fighting it.” She looked at the two other women, her eyes starting to water. “Did… did you hear them say the name… A-Airi?”

Mary took a deep breath out, “‘As she ye’ ‘riend?”

Marina started to shake violently. “No… she was… sh-she was… i-is she dead?”

“‘En Airi ‘eid ‘en my ‘ission, beh’ ‘et ‘ounds ‘ike ‘et ‘asn’t yers.” Mary replied, hoping her answer would calm her down.

Marina closed her eyes and tried to calm down. “It… she was on… your mission… so my sister is… is she okay?”

“What?” Airi asked, stepping inside with Vee. “What do you mean? I’m not the one in the…” Marina leapt from her bed, practically tackling her sister to the floor.

Vee glanced over at the two for a moment. “Feel like I missed something…”

Marina squeezed her sister, sobbing loudly. “I… I heard them say… that… th-that a woman… named Airi was…”

“Whoa, whoa, easy.” Airi held her sister tightly. “Threw me off too. Don’t get all weepy on me.” She grinned at the others. “This isn’t… she’s my sister. We aren’t, like… you know…”

“‘Et’s ‘ine, ‘eople ‘ink eh’m shagg’in my ‘ister ‘ell th’ ‘ime…” Mary smiled.

Airi laughed. “What? I didn’t…”

“She said people think she sleeps with her sister,” Marina whispered.

Airi raised an eyebrow. “Why would they think that, unless you were…” Marina whispered in her ear again, and Airi blushed. “Oh… oh, um…” She glanced at Mary and her two guests. “We… why don’t we leave them alone.”

Airi pulled her sister to the door. Marina shook her head. “What… wait, it isn’t like she has too girlfriends or something…”

Ayame chuckled as the sister walked out. “Thanks for coming, Vee.”

“‘’Uess ‘at ‘reesome ‘ill ‘ave te’ wait.” Mary smiled, looking over at Vee.

The clone grinned. “Yeah...maybe if we throw you in a Tz6 vat you’ll heal quicker.”

“Eh’ what?”

“I think that’s what the Legion girls call the Meld,” Ayame answered, though didn’t sound sure.

“Yep,” Vee nodded. “I prefer it. MELD sounds uncreative...though I suppose that’s to be expected from ‘ol Shen.”

Ayame laughed. “Yeah, I guess it does sound more like a ‘function over creativity’ name. Tz6 makes it sound… exotic…”

“It’d call a substance that turns you into a badass pretty exotic,” Vee responded. “Speaking of which...you don’t actually have anything yet, Mary.”

“‘Eh dun’t, beh’ I’ve ‘een ‘sider’in et’. Th’ extra ‘rength’d ‘eally ‘elp me lug meh’ weapon ‘round easier.” She replied, cringing as another jolt of pain shot up her chest.

Ayame quickly dipped the towel in the water. “Well, the mods have helped me a lot. Though, despite how many I have, I’m practically a little girl walking in her mother’s high heels compared to Vee.”

“‘At eh’ ‘eally ‘ant es’ ‘ionics, creat’in ‘ire with meh’ ‘ands ‘ould be ‘maz’in!” The gunner responded, the raising of her voice causing her more pain.

Ayame frowned, looking worried. “I… I think we should worry about that later, Mary.” She grabbed the nurse phone. “Do want me to get you more pain killers?”

Mary nodded as much as she could, “Y-yeh… Meh’ stomach ‘eels ‘ike et’s ‘urning...”

Ayame nodded back, and quickly hit the buzzer. When no one came within only a few seconds, Ayame suddenly jumped to her feet, rushing out to drag someone here if she needed to.

Mary clenched her hands in pain as the burning moved up into her chest, waiting for Ayame to bring one of the nurses in.

Vee went over to Mary’s side, sighing with noticeable worry. “Sorry we couldn’t watch your back ou there...getting hurt this bad sucks.”

“E-Eh’m ‘lad eh’ ‘aved th’ p-p-prin’ess ‘rom ‘is... ‘Is ‘ain es’ un’earable...”

Ayame pulled a surprised nurse through the door. “Stop slacking and help my friend! What are you paid for!”

“I’m not… paid,” The nurse mumbled, and injected something into Mary’s arm. “This’ll take the pain away, but it’ll also knock you out. You need the sleep anyway.”

The pain began to subside as Mary’s eyes drooped for a second and then closed completely, falling fast asleep. As the nurse stepped out, Ayame took a deep breath, and turned to Vee. “I’m… thank you, it… means a lot for her that you came so quickly. And it means a lot to me.”

Vee smiled. “Well, you’re my friends, after all. With benefits, of course.”

Ayame shook her head. “No, I… I mean it, Vee. After… after our first encounter, how I went off on you… that you’d be so willing to stay by our side after that. It really means a lot to me.”

The destroyer shrugged. “It’s no big deal. I just hope I get to fight alongside you guys sometime. Maybe when they need a ton of firepower.”

“I’d like that,” Ayame answered, and sat back down by Mary, water the towel again. “I’m… gonna stay here for a little while longer. At least until they kick me out.”

“I’ll stay if you don’t mind, just for awhile longer,” Vee suggested. “Unless you want to be alone.”

Ayame shook her head, and grabbed another chair, putting in next to hers. “I’d love the company.”

 

[MarineAvenger]

Bundle of Questions (MarineAvenger and DarkGemini24601)

Holo-Training Room
September 16th, 1100 Hours

Holograms appeared across the room, some of items or people. Saka looked on with bewilderment as she had never seen such a sight before, the only exception being whatever stories or rare movie. She ran her hands along the projections and was amazed by their level of detail for something so artificial. Saka smoothed out her dress and grinned wide. “I think I am going to like it here.”

“Perhaps, Mistress,” a silver haired woman replied to a dark blonde in a labcoat, the two looking identical with the exception of hair color. “After the recent mission, there is probably time. And if I am an exact copy, then your propensity for psionic powers might carry over to me.”

“Indeed,” the dark blond replied. “Though I am naturally ahead in experience.”

Saka twirled around at the new visitors and smiled, clapping her hands together with the chance of getting to meet someone new. Her feet pattered against the ground as the girl was not wearing anything on her feet and approached the two. “Hi, are you guys here to use the projectors in here?”

“I was considering it, but mainly just taking a walk,” the woman in the labcoat replied. “I do not believe we have met.”

The younger girl nodded. “That would be because I am one of the newest recruits. I am Saka Hatake!” She gripped the edges of her white dress and bowed lightly. “At your service,” She straightened and held out her hand. “And nice to meet you!”

The woman took it with much more restraint. “Ah, you must be Desmond’s ally. I am Elene Exalt, and this is Emma.”

“Yes I am! I am also best friend to said lump and leader of my respected clan, or at least I will resume being so when I am older and not apart of a secret organization of super soldiers who kill aliens.” Saka smiled.

“Curious, for I have not heard an abundant amount about you,” Elene responded.

Saka’s smile faded slightly. “I don’t imagine so, me and him only thought each other dead for the past few years. Though that still doesn’t excuse his negligence of me.” Saka eyed Emma for a minute. “I love your hair.”

“Thank you,” the shadow operative replied. “A distinction needed to be made, considering I am Elene’s direct clone, so I dyed it metallic gray. I rather like the color.”

“So do I...I might have to dye my hair now.” Saka ran her fingers through her hair for a minute and shook her head. “Hair aside, he has really told you nothing about me?”

“He mentioned other shinobi, but not you in particular,” Elene explained.

Saka crossed her arms and looked a bit agitated. “I am going to have to thump him over the head for that one later…” Looking curiously at the two other girls in attendance she ran over to the console and materialized a couple of chairs, one across from two others. Saka leap-frogged over hers and was crouching in the chair instead of sitting on it right. “Well come, and I will fill in what he,” She growled the word. “Has failed to tell you about me.”

“...I didn’t realize it was that bad…” Elene muttered. “Perhaps he was worried Elizabeth would...ahem.” She and Emma sat down.

“Who is Elizabeth? Is she his girlfriend or something?” Saka asked a little blankly.

“The former,” Emma responded. “Did you two…”

Saka stared at Emma and ever so slowly, a larger and larger grin took over her face. Jumping up, her fists raised and laughter coming in large quantities. “The bastard finally did it!” She squealed as the chair fell backwards and she landed on the floor. “Ow…” Looking up at the two visitors she put a finger under her chin. “To answer your question, no. I admit when I was younger I had a bit of puppy love for him but I was still a bit little. What surprises me is that hopeless guy got a girl.”

Elene shrugged. “You’d have to ask him about details. I wasn’t present at the time.”

Saka wiped off her dress and put the chair back up, sitting on it the right way this time. “I am sure he screwed it up big time and just got lucky, but enough about him, you wanted to ask about me.” Saka looked up at the ceiling. “Lets see...told you my name, told you my past relations with lumpy…” The younger girl shrugged. “Well ask and you shall receive I guess. Where should I begin?”

“What your expertise is?” Elene offered.

“Ah. Well I was trained as a warrior. The other clans focused on knowledge and inner peace but my clan were the badasses. I specialize in high mobility tactics using the lightest weapons to output the most damage without using anything big. I was also trained in stealth and I am a kick butt person in CQC.”

“My specialty is something similar, based on stealth, support, hacking, and elimination,” Emma stated.

“Cool stuff. So, how old are you guys by the way?” Saka asked, leaning forward with a curious look.

“Biologically, eighteen,” Elene began. “Technically, only a few months.”

“Wow, that means you are a year older. I am seventeen, so you know.” Saka grinned as if it was no big deal.

“A young age for someone to fight. But then again, Buniq is fully capable, even if she prefers not to,” Emma decided.

Saka scoffed mockingly, putting her hands behind her head. “And the lady in charge here thought that I would be too young. I can fight but she still had to ask Desmond for a referral.” She looked to the side making a pouting face. “I could beat circles around that lump…” She mumbled, just loud enough for the other women to hear.

“Commander O’Brien was merely being careful,” Elene stated. “Though I am sure there is some truth to your claims…though I doubt you can use psionics, at least yet.”

“You mean lumpy’s strange mind powers? Eh, last time he showed me those he looked like a complete imbecile. How strong could he possibly be in the span of a couple of years?” Saka questioned.

“He has an ability called ‘Pulsar Core’ that can vaporize a certain radius of average materials, and is developing a lance of telekinetic energy, as well as fire manipulation, with Inderpal,” Elene returned.

Saka’s mouth hung open for a bit, a bit speechless and she harrumphed. “He is still a lump…”

Emma raised an eyebrow. “Why exactly do you call him ‘lumpy’?”

Saka tilted her head. “Heh? Oh, that is what he is. He is a lazy and dense dunderhead...much like a lump on a log, so I named him Lumpy.” Saka smiled mischievously. “He always hated the nickname but that is why I use it so much.” Saka sighed. “So how do you know him?”

“He is my brother, not genetically but through common bond,” Elene responded. “We were both created by the same person.”

“Ah, that is adorable…” Saka wrapped her arms around herself. “Desmond always complained about having me around, ‘Saka, I am going to get in trouble. Saka, I won’t help you with your hairbrained scheme. Why would you need an entire sack of rice?’” Saka mocked Desmond in a manly tone. “Funny part is, he still got blamed for spilling that bag. Guy had to clean his bed off for weeks!” Saka chuckled.

“I see why he remembers his time in Japan fondly.” Emma chuckled.

“He will never admit it but I made the time there all the more worthwhile.” If it was gloating, she didn’t care. “So what other enigmas about me are scratching you to get learned?”

“You’re not Japanese,” Elene stated.

“Well duh, is it that obvious?” Saka stuck her tongue out briefly. “You would be correct. I am not Japanese. To be honest, I am actually French but I have little memories of my early life. I don’t tend to dwell on it too much though, I am more for the now.”

“Not a bad philosophy,” Emma decided.

“Philosophy is for the Fujigara.” Saka dismissed. “So, you probed me on my relationships, what about you, ‘Mistress’?” Saka snickered at the name.

“Well, Emma is one of my sisters, but I have Lily and Vee as well,” the heiress replied, unfazed. “And a close associate in Markus Grathem.”

“Ooo...you must spill the beans! What is he like! Come on girl, detail, details...not often I get to do this. As you can imagine the dude to chick ratio was not so even in my clan.”

“Well, he’s intelligent, handsome, and athletic...a perfect combination, I would say,” Elene mused.

“Look at you all lovey dovey.” Saka stood up and started to pace the room. “I like you two.”

“I am merely stating facts…” Elene defended.

“I think ‘handsome’ is an objective opinion,” Emma countered.

“Sounds like jealousy to me-e!” Saka teased, now across the room. “Same girl, same tastes I guess!” The girl called out.

“...I have no intention of taking Markus for myself.” Emma sighed. “Just as I imagine you will not pose a threat to Elizabeth.”

“Oh I am a huge threat! I could take him with a snap of my fingers!” Saka sighed and fell down onto her back. “Though I wouldn’t torture him that much. I give Desmond crap but he is the best person I have ever met. We are friends for life, no matter the gender!”

Saka quickly made her way back over to the two Exalt women and sighed. “Sorry to cut off the questions but I have somewhere to be in an hour. Need to get around more.” Saka grabbed each of the girl’s hands and shook them before running to the door. “Toodles!”

 

[BMPixy]

“The Tree of Life”
Somewhere in the Amazon Rainforest
1532 Local Time
Honored Overseer

Gently the craft settled to the forest floor, the gentle hum of the engines slowly giving way to the unnatural silence of nature. With a gentle wave of the hand, the Honored Overseer beckoned his entourage, four Balmadaar Elites led by Jiokjiok and a science team of five First Ones led by their Commander G-36, forward, out of the Overseer’s craft.

The crew waded through the dense flora of the forest, the Balmadaar trampling the vegetation underfoot as their Ethereal Commander floated peacefully through the path they blazed, First Ones nervously at the heels of the ancient alien. After a minute of travel, they came upon a clearing, filled with various huts and shacks, some burning amidst the gentle drizzle of rain pouring down from above.

We have reached the site, the Honored Overseer projected to their companions, divide into your assigned teams and recover the subjects. Investigation protocol Mil-Aureo.

Understood, Honored Overseer, G-36 mentally replied, all who are not worthy shall meet the fate they deserve. The Commander waved a hand to the four of his subordinates, and they split off, each pair accompanied by two Elites. However, Jiokjiok hung back from his team, evidently hesitant.

What is on your mind, Jiokjiok? The Honored Overseer whispered into the mind of the Balmadaar.

Do not like leaving the Honored Overseer with such little protection, the Elite grumbled, as his team waited for him to follow. Feels… unnatural.

Jiokjiok should not be worried for this one’s safety. This one is more than capable of handling themselves. Go and rejoin your team, and bring glory to the Path with your work.

Reluctantly, Jiokjiok replied, Very well, Honored Overseer. May the Path bring us back together unharmed. With that, the Balmadaar stepped back into formation with his team, and the group headed off into the village, leaving the Honored Overseer and G-36 alone.

Come, G-36, the Ethereal said, Let us complete our task, and not leave all the work to our subordinates.

As you wish, Honored Overseer, the First One responded, and with that the two set off towards the center of the village, passing by empty huts and tools dropped as if their users had been violently pulled away from their work.

Finally, the pair reached a dull gray pod, green lights flickering along the sides, casting slight shadows across the various bodies scattered around it, all wrapped in a silky green substance. Without a word, the smaller of the aliens pulled a set of instruments out of his bag, and took a position next to the nearest body.

Scanning for the Gift in Subject 001, G-36 mentally intoned, more for their own sake rather than the benefit of the ancient alien gently floating nearby. With a few deft motions the alien placed a probe on the subject’s head and flicked it on. The device let out a gentle hum and began to emit a faint red light, before changing to orange, followed by the rest of the visible spectrum. After a moment, the device flicked off, a short buzz emanating from the probe.

No Gift present. Moving on to Subject 002, G-36 said, removing the probe and scrambling over to the next body. The procedure was repeated, and once again the probe buzzed a negative. Three more times this occurred, before, at last, the probe flashed blue and gave a slight chime.

Gift present in Subject 006, blue spectrum. Tagging for later retrieval, the First One said, excitement edging into their neutral tone of thought. With his free hand, the Commander reached into his bag and removed a small blue tag and hooked it onto the body, removing the probe with his other hand. He began to move to the next body; however a raised hand from the Honored Overseer stopped G-36 in his tracks.

This one senses a conscious presence besides our own, the Ethereal projected, Prepare for potential hostile New One. As soon as the Ethereal finished the thought, a wild youth, clothed in naught but a loincloth and a pair of leather boots came charging out of the underbrush, spear brandished and a war cry on his lips.

With a slight red glow, the Overseer gestured a hand at the attacking native, and the air distorted between the Ethereal and the human, the distortion wrapping around the human and lifting him into the air. A look of panic from the native, a flick of the hand from the Honored Overseer, and the former crashed into the side of a hut, splintering wood falling around the New One’s body.

Interesting, the ancient alien thought, To see such bravery after terror such as that which we have wrought.

“You monsters!” the human exclaimed, rage clear on his face. “What are you doing with them!? Let me go!” He desperately struggled against his psionic bonds, but they held firm.

G-36, perform the test upon this one, the Honored Overseer commanded, Such valor should be rewarded.

As you wish, Honored Overseer, the Sectoid Commander replied, scurrying over to the native and readying the tools.

“W-what are you d-doing!?” he exclaimed, rage turning to panic as the grey alien telekinetically lifted the tools to the human’s head. With a gentle nudge, the device flickered on, and the subject cried in pain, his nerve endings alight as the device scanned for potential. After a tense minute, the device buzzed a negative.

What a disappointment, the Honored Overseer projected, And here this one thought that the New One escaped abduction for a reason.

What shall be done with the New One, Honored Overseer? G-36 asked, removing the device from the human’s head.

Protocol Mil-Aureo is clear in expression. We cannot simply let an un-Gifted New One leave, especially one that is conscious. This brings despair, seeing one so brave bereft of the Gift, and as such, use. The Honored Overseer clutched their outstretched hand, their red glow briefly flaring. The native barely managed the opening note of a scream before the distortions closed upon him, and with a squeeze, the human’s waist evaporated in a splash of gore, and the two severed portions of the body limply fell to the floor.

Blood pooled upon the forest floor as the Ethereal turned back to the various humans strewn around the abduction pod. Now, G-36, let us continue our blessed work.

As you wish, Honored Overseer.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Ethereal Temporary Base
Below DDC building
Dhaka, Bangladesh
September 16th, 1230 Hours

Invidia's avatar floated through the combined lab/engineering, watching the production of her own personal forces. Aware of the powerful presence approaching from behind, Invidia ignored it, as if doing so might make them go away.

You've been a busy boy... or girl... or whatever you are today.

Female today... if you must know. Invidia turned to her unwelcome guest. What are you doing here, Avaritia?

We are both in charge here, remember? Just because you have been charged with the east half does not mean we do not have to communicate.

Invidia seemed to ignore the comment, noting the irritation she sensed in the other Ethereal. So, Avarita... how do you like my new toys?

Avaritia turned to them, allowing to let the subject be changed, for both of their sakes. They look awfully familiar, Invy.

Of course they do... Invidia had to hold back the urge to call him a fool. They are made from humans. Pathetic as they are, I find their link with the systems much better then those failed brutes do.

No, not that. I mean they all look alike.

While I agree all these humans look the same, I am surprised to hear that from you, with your affection for these... creatures.

Avaritia squeezed his fists, annoyed by Invidia's avoidance of his questions. I mean... they all look like the they are from the same small group of people... He folded his arms. ...as the woman that kicked your ass.

She did not... Invidia shuddered in anger, both from the implication, and how, with one sentence, the conversation had turned in Avaritia's favor. These... Inuits, I believe they are called, are leftovers. I acquired them from Luxuria before her fall, who acquired them from our base in India before its fall.

I just find it strange that, of all the humans to deform this way, you chose them. Could it be you are a tad bitter that woman dashed all you plans... whatever they were.

I don't know what you mean. Invidia turned her back to her companion, slowly floating away. My designs for dissension amongst the ranks of the resistance was but one of my plans. It matters not that this... Atka... should ruin it or anything else. Though I do plan on dealing with her when the time is right, as well as the traitorous one they hold 'captive', though I have little doubt they are treating her quite comfortably after she turned her back on her people.

Luxuria is no traitor. Avaritia's tone raised, showing a level of anger uncommon to the relaxed Ethereal. What she has done may have been contradictory to some plans to our bosses, but she would never do anything to directly betray us. He folded his upper arms, his lower ones nervously tapping his side. At least not without good reason... Invidia...

Invidia slowly turned around. I'm sorry, but... that sounded like an accusation.

You're damn right it is! Avaritia floated forward as he 'spoke'. Luxuria is a captive, and now Gula is dead!

He is? Luxuria placed a hand on his chin. Oh my. That is unfortunate. She shook her head. The Ethereal ones will truly suffer, having lost him. Though I fail to see...

Cut the crap! Avaritia shuttered in angry. Gula might have been a coward, but he was one of us. He called me, pleading for help, and informed of the signal for a cloaked Ethereal scout over his base before X-COM's fighters showed up.

Dear me. Invidia did not bother to hide the sarcasm in her tone, but rather emphasized it. To think, those remnants of a dead resistance would be able to find two of our bases and...

Enough! Avaritia suddenly extended his hand, lifting Invidia into the air by her neck with telekinesis. I thought the same with Luxuria, but I asked Gula for the energy signature, security codes, and hyperwave signal of the ship. They all matched the ones we currently use!

That is... troublesome to hear. Perhaps the previously mentioned remnants learned of our signals already, but if you do not believe, please check my ships. Though you should know, I had to recently dismantle one. Wasn't working right, so I... The strength of the telekinesis intensified.

I could see Gula. You always look down on those weaker then you, even your own kind, and Gula was the weakest of us all, but what did Luxuria do to deserve your ire? I doubt you were helping the humans you so openly despise. So what did she do to piss you off? Make fun of you? Not hold the door open for you? Not compliment you on your knew robe?

I... do not... know what you speak of. Would you really kill another Ethereal without proof? You would... incur the wrath of the rest. You would be dead within...

If I had to give my life to save the rest of my people from a snake like you, then so be it!

What... what are you doing? R-release me at once!

At the sound of a different voice in his head, Avaritia released the other Ethereal. He turned in time for an Muton to plow into him, sending him flying. Slamming into a work station, he brought up his hand, send a combined wave of red-orange energy towards his attack, but the Muton sent a similar wave of energy back two-fold, easily dissipating Avaritia's attack. The Muton's hand glowed green, and Avaritia shuddered in pain.

"I should kill you know," Invidia said through the Muton. "But I would never do so to one of my own, save for a tratior. I will assume you were mistaken."

Y-you mean... y-y-you don't want t-to kill me, b-b-because the others would investigate you a-and find... The pain intensified, and Avaritia raised his hand. E-enough, I...

The Muton's hand stopped glowing, and it turned to the other Ethereal. "Get him out of here!" It then shook its head, and looked around in confusion. The other Ethereal floated over to Avaritia, offering her hand.

I... I am sorry. Please, let me...

I am fine! Avaritia stood back up. Please, let me keep what dignity I have left. He floated away, heading for the hanger. You can only hide behind your tricks for so long, he thought to himself. Soon, you will make a mistake, and reap what you've sown. Personally, I hope it is the humans that put you in your place, even if I am not here to see it.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

X-COM Headqaurters
Office of Morrigan O'Brien
September 16th, 1700 Hours

Shalquoir starred forward in boredom as she slowly floated across the room, watching Brigid with more annoyance then fear. Morrigan looked up from her paper work and sighed. "Brigid, I asked you not to practice on the cat..."

Brigid frowned. "But mommy, you let me practice my menderism on her. Why not my telenketas?"

Morrigan shook her head. "Just be careful. I don't want you to hurt her anymore then she does." She noted the dirty look her feline friend. "Just humor her, Shalquoir. She's learning." Shalquoir let out an irritated meow, and the Morrigan said chuckled. "Yeah, yeah, if you don't complain, I'll see what I can do."

Aya and Eve stepped into the office, Aya watching the cat with a raised eyebrow, Eve watching her with a smile. While Eve played with the hovering cat, Aya sat in front of the desk. "Reports are in."

"Good." Morrigan folded her hands. "How are things in America?"

"Great, surprisingly." Aya looked over a report. "With the Ethereal's influence gone, the Armies in the U.S., and the rest of North America, are quickly getting back to full force. And thanks to Mr. Foulke, EXALT was unprepared for their push to find and get them out."

"I take it they'll get them out within a matter of weeks?" Morrigan asked.

"Probably just a week, ten days at the most." Eva scratched Shalquoirs belly and back at the same time. "That computer Albert found had a ton of info on it. Security codes were useless, but there were records of transactions that led us to a lot of the other hidden bases. Their days in the Americas are numbered."

Aya sighed. "We... cremated the soldier we lost on the mission. Her family was grateful that we recovered her body, and assured us that they'd continue to support us. Atka... wrote the letter herself." Morrigan nodded, but said nothing more. Reading her expression, Aya added, "Atka is okay. No need to worry about her."

Morrigan closed her eyes. "I... see a lot of myself in her, though she has a lot more discipline. And I... lost a soldier under me in a similar manner. If she reacted like I would have..."

Aya looked over her notes. "As for the Ethereal base, we were ready for cleanup this time. And with the base cleaned out, it went a lot faster. We did what we could for our lost soldiers there, but two of them..."

Eve scoffed. "It isn't fair. The gigantic monstrosity didn't even give us anything we could use. Just took two soliders and wrecked porr Alice's body."

"Finch was the worse loss," Aya added. "I told the others they weren't ready, but they insisted. Finch, however, had so much potential. If it hadn't been for that thing..."

Morrigan nodded in understanding. "At least he died for a good cause. Two Ethereals down, five to go. Whats more, the lab boys got plenty of materials to keep them busy. They feel we are very close to unlocking the secrets to the plasma weapons."

Aya smiled. "We'll win this one yet. Meanwhile, those new people Saka brought with her are getting along fine, our production times have been cut in half thanks to the contributions of Legion, and morale is... stable."

"And we haven't had any incidences with the psions... well, since..." Eve smiled down at Brigid as she floated her cat into her arms, underestimating its weight as she released her hold and dropping to the floor.

"Come on..." Morrigan stood up, and went to pick up her daughter. "It has been a while since we all ate dinner together."

 

[Dahlexpert]

With great power and training comes zero responsibility

X-com Headquarters Somewhere in Siberia

Primary Infirmary

Ashley and Eva sit in the medical wing. God damn it i'm tired, I can't believe how many aliens there were on that mission. Eva said

Yea, but I have to say Eva your getting better. I mean you didn't rush the enemy as often this time like you normally do.

Yea, but still I only rushed the berzerker which we needed,but I did rush the enemy just shooting the berzerker gives them plenty of time to ram us.

Ashley looks at Eva. Eva let me ask you something, how long have you been in the military?

10 years, I joined the military at 16 that was when I was in the Swiss army. then I joined the united states marines, and then the rangers.

Ashley's eyes widen, Wait your a ranger? Why the hell are you not a squad leader?

Wait let me explain, I joined the U.S marines but I never joined the ranger battalion. But I did train to become one.

Ashley get's a angry look on her face. You need to become a squad leader.

WHAT! Ash i'm not a leader i'm a soldier, I trained to become a solder the best of the best. that's all I wanted to do, I never wanted to become a leader.

Eva your a good soldier, and yes you are good at what you do but. Your a U.S marine and you were in the Swiss army and your a super soldier. Why do you not want to be a leader?

Because I can't deal with people dying under my command. Eva yelled I can't handle the pressures of becoming a leader.

Ashley get's a look of sympathy. Look Eva i'm not going to lie, being a leader is tough people expect a lot out of you they expect you to bring them home alive and to act like a leader. But I saw you on our mission to kill that Etheral, when we were facing that three headed monster and every one was trembling in fear,hell even our squad leader. You were just looking at that thing fearless not even a little bit scared, now i'm not sure if that's because you saw something worse than that or you don't fear death? but it doesn't matter Look Eva rather you like it or not, you have a reputation here. When people hear that a blue haired soldier cut a berzerker in half and beat's the crap out of mutons with her bear hands and is immune to poison, and now Beat the shit out of an etheral and killed a three headed monster. Do you think people don't want to fallow that person?

You relay think I can become a leader?

Yes, the commander will with out a doubt give you a chance, but you have to tell her why you want to become a leader. What gives you the right to lead.

I...I don't know. I...I'm a super soldier.

And?

And I'm a Swiss soldier and a U.S. marine and trained to become a ranger.

And what else, look Eva i'm not going to force this on you this is something only you can think of.

Eva thinks for a moment, and thinks to her time in Afghanistan, and her team. I...I want to become a leader and I know why now.

Ashley looks at Eva and that reason is?

That's for the commanders to hear,and no one else.

Ashley get's a smile on her face well I can't wait to see if you'll get promoted for this.

Eva lays in the med bays bed thinking what to say to the commander.

 

[Adrammalech]

// BROKEN TOYS //
Emily Fischer
XCOM Headquarters – Medical Wing
Siberia, Russian Federation
2:18 PM

As Emily brushed past the rush of doctors and nurses to get to the extended care area, she bumped into several familiar faces. They had all come to watch as the wounded got carted in from the latest mission, and she wanted to pay them mind as well, but had a date with another sort of victim. As she got to the quiet corner of the medical wing, the walls gave way to poor white wallpaper, unsecured doors, and small slapdash rooms. Paper signs on each door read “Recovered Test Subject,” their names still unknown. She reached a room for conversation that she had reserved, and in front of it, Ben stood worriedly.

“I need to know what’s going on with these captives.”

“What do you mean, Ben?” she said, trying to peek through the windows.

“They were trained…trained to be you, down to creepy details.”

“Luxuria was testing how to break down the human will enough that an Ethereal could occupy the body. I was apparently her favorite body, so when we went there, all of the subjects were me…”

“But these women have been conditioned for a long time. This…Luxuria has been spying on you and training these women for at least two months.”

Emily frowned. “Can they recover?”

“That much positive and negative reinforcement for so long…their minds are gone. There’s barely any memory or logic left, it’s just what Luxuria has given and what she’s taken away.”

“Let me talk to one.”

“You look like what they were being molded into. I think it would make things worse…”

“Or it means I could relate. Let me talk to one and let’s see what happens.”

“I certainly don’t have the authority to stop you,” Ben gestured. “Just be careful.”

She walked into the room, a quiet and soundproofed room with comfortable seats and a low amount of stimulus. The girl inside flinched at her arrival, recoiling in her chair at the sight of her. The red had been washed out of her hair and her body was cleaned, but she still wore cracked lips and sunken eyes, worried and confused. Emily took a seat beside her carefully, putting on a helpful face.

“Hi there, I’m Emily, I was one of the soldiers who destroyed the alien’s base,” she said softly, reaching out her hand. “How are you doing?”

“I am okay. I am okay,” she chanted as if it was required. “Thank you.”

“I was happy to help. What’s your name?”

She looked around nervously. “A-Amelia.”

Emily grimaced. “Really?”

“Y-yes, I’m Amelia.”

“What’s your real name?”

“S-Sy…Amelia, Amelia, Amelia. It’s Amelia. I’m Amelia.”

“Everything’s okay, you won’t be hurt anymore for telling truth,” Emily said slowly, holding her hand. “Tell me your real name, your old name.”

“Sy-Sybille, Sybille. I was Sybille,” she said quickly, looking as though she was being hurt, despite the device on her head being long gone. “They…they call me Amelia. It was important. I was important. It was important. Amelia. You look like Amelia. Are you an Amelia too?”

“I…I am, but they call me Emily,” she replied.

“I-I’m sorry…”

“What are you sorry for?”

“For escaping,” Sybille said bluntly. “Please don’t make it sting again…”

“Nothing’s going to sting you again. You’re a person again, Sybille, not a test subject.”

“I don’t…I don’t remember how to do that, persons,” she shook her head vigorously. “I don’t want to do that anymore. It’s too hard. I just want to go home and feel the water again. Will you give me it?”

“What are you talking about?”

“The special water, it makes you feel good all over…makes you calm…”

“Tell me more…about this special water.”

“When they’re finding a home for you, they don’t give you any water…you get really thirsty, and really hungry…some of them die, but if you’re strong enough, they give you a home, and they give you the special water,” she explained wistfully. “It tastes really good and makes you tingle all over and you want to drink more. Then they inject it into you and it feels even better. Then they give you the device, and you get it whenever you’re a good girl. If you’re really good, you can get enough to stay happy for hours, and forget where you are. But they don’t like it when you get too much.”

“You don’t need any more special water, Sybille. You can be happy now without it, with friends and a better home.”

“No, no!” she shook her head, her face turning desperate. The traumatized girl clearly misunderstood the purpose of their meeting. “I like the water, give me the water! I have been good, I deserve the water!”

“You haven’t done anything bad.”

“Then give me the water! I answered all your questions! I-I dyed my hair again, I said the name you wanted! Please, please, give me something!”

Emily looked nervously from side to side, unsure how to placate the hyper-submissive woman. She felt an odd nurturing instinct egging her on, and lifted her hand to the girl’s head to pet her gingerly, stroking the long brunette hair that had been combed over her surgery wound. Her mouth hung open and she sighed in relief.

“You’re a good girl, Sybille,” Emily said softly.

“You’re touching me…the water made me want to be touched, but they never touch me even when I beg,” she mumbled. “Y-yes…I’m good, for the doctors. They will make me happy, right?”

“That’s right. You don’t need the water to be happy.”

“No, I will be good for Amelia. She is the most important. The masters say she is the only one that can be like them, I am just a disappointment. I'm just data. But I can change, will be just like Amelia, yes…have to be, important,” she regressed and chanted with a smile. “I am important. I am Amelia.”

Emily walked out of the room, looking painfully towards the broken woman, rocking in her chair. Ben poked her and gave her a stern look, having watched their exchange.

“Are you crazy? You shouldn’t just touch an abuse victim like that, what if she lost it?”

“I…I know, I just had a feeling,” she looked back at the door. “I might be able to help her. To help them.”

“You shouldn’t,” Ben sighed. “We have doctors for this.”

“Maybe you’re right…this is…this is too fucked up for me. I don't know how to deal with this.”

“You can still help,” he said. “What did you get from the Ethereal about what they did?”

“They gave them a drug, this ‘special water’ was some kind of narcotic. It was to break down the willpower of strong humans. Then the Ethereal would take their body and their potential would be intact. Judging from what the girl said…it gave some kind of sexual thrill too.”

“If we can find the chemical, maybe we can make a mild version to wean them off of it, then replace it with placebos,” he suggested, “It’s clear she’s addicted to whatever it was.”

“It’s not like she can find any more of it, but you’re right. They’ve been hurt enough. Anything that makes it easier.”

Emily nodded slightly and tried to push past him to walk away. Ben grasped her shoulder.

“You know you didn’t have anything to do with what happened to her, right?”

“Maybe not…but I’m going to fix it,” she sighed.

Without another word, she moved back into the crowded area, knowing she’d have friends to check on.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

*Dialogue between Golin and Sarah is translated from the Mandarin dialect of the Chinese language, the most common variant in the country

"Distant Promises" - Sarah Wong

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
0830 Hours, September 18th, 2018
Records Room

"Alright, connection is up," Thomas Burrick announced to his guest, stepping back from the computer. He grew silent when he saw Sarah Wong's impassive stare from the chair she was sitting in. "...what?"

"Do you mind if I talk to him alone?" The sniper explained, her expression remaining level.

I never pegged her as one to be uncomfortable in these sort of situations...maybe that cold exterior belies how uncomfortable she is around others, especially in regards to personal matters, Thomas mused.

"Burrick, what are you thinking about?" Sarah asked, narrowing her eyes.

Tom quickly snapped back to reality, putting on his best innocent look. "N-Nothing, just zoned out...you may." Rubbing the back of his neck, the assistant manager of records departed his room, leaving the sniper and her adoptive son to talk.

Sarah stepped over to the desk, and sat down in the comfortable chair. On the screen was Golin. The Chinese boy immediatly brightened, seeing her again. "Hello, mother," he began in Mandarin. "T-Thank you for the birthday present."

The sniper smiled slighty, the expression feeling unnatural to her. "I'm glad you liked it. Just pace yourself," Sarah replied.

The 13 year-old nodded readily. "Of course. How have this been for you?" He did not even need to add 'what you can tell me, at least'. The two were used to the limit of information exchange, and worked around it.

"It has been...difficult, in some respects." Sarah sighed. "Are you sure you want to...?"

Golin nodded again, looking up at his mother with understanding. "You can tell me. You know I'm used to it."

A pained expression came across Sarah's face. "Forgive me... we both know that is my fault," she said somberly.

"Mom...you did the best you could I don't blame you for that..." Golin responded, though there was uncertainty in his tone.

"Even the life I was accustomed to does not excuse my failure to act," the sniper replied. She held a hand over her eyes and forehead. "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to turn this so sour...I just..."

Golin smiled slightly, brushing aside the painful thoughts for now. "Y-you were just worried about me."

Sarah slowly returned to her normal posture, giving the slightest of nods. "Unfortunately, we lost one of our comrades recently. The Japanese one."

Golin tapped his fingers against each other in thought. "You fought alongside her a few times, right?"

"Yes," The Chinese woman confirmed. "We have all felt her passing. And I imagine she will not be the last. Things are heating up."

"Any good news?" The boy prompted.

"Well, needless to say, another recent operation ensured that North America will be safer, and you with it." Golin smiled, and Sarah continued, "How have things been for you?"

"N-Not boring, certainly. Marabelle is nice, if a bit...uh..."

"Hyperactive?"

"Yeah. Her and her sister are that alike?" Golin infered.

"Indeed they are," Sarah affirmed. "And Sofia?"

"Sofia's more moderate...and playing basketball with her is really fun." Golin smiled. "Maybe I'll try out for it next year if I go back to school then. She says I could do well."

"Good to hear. And you've been keeping up with your studies, correct?" Sarah added.

"I have. Do you think the war will be over soon?" Golin asked hesitantly.

The sniper closed her eyes in thought for a few seconds. "Maybe. We're making progress. I can only promise you I'll do my best."

"That's the most important thing, right?" Golin glanced behind him an indistinct voice calling out. "I-It was nice talking to you again, mother. I hope we can again soon."

Sarah smiled. "Was that Sofia?"

"She's a good teacher, but a demanding one," Golin answered.

"Well, it builds character," Sarah offered jokingly. "We'll speak again soon." Golin nodded, and the connection cut off. "I promise you that, too," the sniper said quietly to herself.

 

[Dahlexpert]

The following is a collaboration between Dhalexpert & Zombiesplitter53
The Super Soldier get's an Opportunity

Eva walked into the Commander’s office and saw Peggy. “Um, hello, is… is the Commander here?”

Peggy shook her head. “She’s currently in the main Lab, observing an autopsy, I believe. You should be able to find her there, assuming they’re still working on it.”

Eva let out a gasp of air. “Oh, thank god she’s not here. Well, thank you, by.” No Eva you're going to find the commander, and talk to her.You will not be avoiding this any more. “Thank you, Miss, for the info. I’ll go find her.” Eva left the Commander’s office.

Entering the labs and asking around, one of the lab techs directed Eva to the side room. Within, Morrigan watched throw the glass as someone in protective gear slowly cut into the remains of one of the Kerberant’s heads, its size large enough to take up the entire examination table. While the tech’s features were obscured, the short shrill let out at the splash of bile when the head popped open suggested it was Jessica. Morrigan simply watched with an apathetic expression.

“Um, hi, Commander.” Eva looked through the glass and saw the Kerberant, cringing at the sight of it. “I was really hoping to never see that thing again. Um, anyway Commander, I wanted to talk to you.”

Morrigan nodded, glancing at Eva before continuing to watch the autopsy. “I’m all ears. What’s on your mind?”

Eva rubs her hands together out of nervousness “Wow this is the first time in a while that I talked to you, the last time I talked to you was when I first arrived here. But I wanted to ask you something Commander and i’m kinda nervous to ask you.”

Morrigan raised an eyebrow. “Nervous? From what I’ve heard, that isn’t like you. This must be serious.” She turned to give Eva her full attention.

Eva takes a large gulp “Um I...I want to….. Oh screw it! I want to become a squad leader! I want to lead people into battle, and I want more responsibility.”

“Squad leader?” Morrigan rubbed the back of her neck. “That… that’s a huge responsibility, Eva. Especially for one who… how do I put this? One who… tends to be so reckless in battle. If such recklessness got you killed in battle now, the unit would lose a teammate. But if you were in charge, they would lose their squad captain. You see how those things are completely different, right?”

“Yes, I understand that, and I will admit I tend to be reckless sometimes but. during that last mission I was not reckless...Well not too reckless, but during that mission there were things only I can do and no one else. Like when we were facing those thin men and there covered the team in a poison cloud, only I was abley to go through that and. Eva looks at the Kerberant “When we were facing that thing,I had no choice but to charge that thing, our guns were not effecting it I will admit what I did was reckless but I did manage to wound that thing, and on top of that that thing was drawn to my energy and we manage to kill that. And for the kicker when that Etheral was absorbing Ashley’s and Sylva psionic energy. I was the only one that distracted that thing long enough for our team to kill it. Yes I will admit I can be reckless sometimes, but when i’m not being reckless I’m a pretty damn good soldier so that’s why i’m asking to become a squad leader.”

Morrigan sighed, and turned back to the autopsy, though the look in her eyes said she was deep in thought. After a few minutes of silence, she said, “I… I will admit, I can’t deny your bravery, as well as your willingness to put yourself in danger for your teammates. Would… would you be willing to put others in danger, though? Sometimes, a squad leader needs to be know when they need to fight, and when they need to send another person to do something, even though that means putting them in danger. You’ll lose people from mistakes. You’ll lose people from bad luck. And you’ll lose people because you had to let them die in order to save others, including yourself. Can you handle that, Eva?”

“No I don’t think I can handle, is anyone ever prepared to lead people into their possible deaths? But I will never know unless I have an opportunity, I mean was Atka or Desmond ready to become leaders? I don’t know but you gave them a chance and I don’t think they came to you like i am, you just gave them a chance. All i’m asking is just for opportunity to prove not just to my self but to everyone else that I can lead them. I mean hell if I just tell people i’m a super soldier they will want to follow me just off of that. But let me live up to what I have been denying myself for years just one mission just give me one mission and well see if I can lead.”

Morrigan turned back to Eva. “Don’t let your skills alone give you a big head. A soldiers willingness to follow you based on you being a ‘super soldier’ would only go so far. I have no doubt about your abilities, and neither does anyone else. What is in question is how much you can be trusted with the lives of others. You can’t do everything, and leading isn’t about charging at the head of the pact. Aya doesn’t keep everyone safe with strength alone. It is because of tactics, reading enemy positions, and using her soldiers to keep each other safe. It isn’t only about you. It is also about them. And if you try to lead based only on how powerful you are, you’ll fail. Remember, I have a number of squad leaders that aren’t nearly as strong as you. I need to know you won’t rely solely on power to lead.”

“Commander, do you really think I rely on my strength alone? Ever since I visited the psi labs I have become even stronger than ever, I found away to bust my gen mods to there fullest, I can heal faster and become more accurate, however I will admit that I will need some leadership training but I will never know If I can lead if I don’t have an opportunity. Look commander I have been denying myself chance for a promotion for years, but I want to become a leader now because I feel like i’m ready now. Don’t get me wrong I don’t think I will get used to having people die under me but I’m willing to try and learn to become a leader.”

Morrigan nodded. “I… I understand, Eva, I do. And if you have potential, the best way to find out would be by giving you that chance.” Morrigan turned back to the autopsy. “Tell me… how much can I trust you. How much of your loyalty do I have? And you need to be honest here, Eva.” She continued to face the autopsy, but her eyes turned to Eva. “Completely… honest…”

“Commander I am loyal to you, I have to ask why do you need me to tell you how loyal I am unless you're thinking something? So what are you thinking commander to make you think i’m not loyal to you?”

Morrigan shook her head. “I’m not… saying I don’t… but things have come up, you know. I… I questioned Desmond’s loyalty when I found out of his affiliation with EXALT. And I’ve… spoken with Vee…”

Eva’s closes her eyes and already knows what the commander is thinking “Sigh you want the hole truth or some bull shit truth,or do you want to hear what you want to hear?”

“Don’t… give me that attitude, Eva.” Morrigan folded her arms and turned to Eva again. “Especially when I’ve been giving you the benefit of the doubt. And especially after everything Vee said in your favor. Vee is an incredibly strong willed and stubborn person, so for her to practically beg me to look past the circumstances of you coming here speaks volumes for her loyalty to you. That you weren’t thrown in the brig immediately should tell you that I want the truth, and not to ‘hear what I want to hear’. And I’d thank you not to speak to me like that.”

“Sigh well, the truth is going to come out one way or another. Fine but let’s settle this in your quarters trust me you're going to want to sit down after what I have to say.”

Morrigan nodded, and walked out without another word. Leading Eva back towards her office, she instead turned and went into her room. Closing the door behind them and sitting on her bed, she said, “This is probably the only place on base where the Council doesn’t have ears or eyes. Now, Eva… before you say something definitely that’ll end up angering me, Vee explained that, like Desmond, your loyalties were to Lusett, not Viktor. She also told me you were her mother, at least in terms of providing your DNA for her and the other’s creation.”

“So she went that far with it huh, then yes you know that Ellen vee and lilly are my children well Ellen is my child but Vee and Lilly are my grandchildren. Now as for my loyalty to Lusett, Yes I used to work for EXALT as a matter of fact you're talking to Lusetts right hand woman.I was her main spy hell i’m the one that told her about XCOM and the alien invasion, are you pissed yet?”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Morrigan smiled. “Irritated, yeah, a bit. Vee wasn’t so blunt about it. How much information did you give her, exactly?”

“Now before you get angry you should be proud of Sunny, her anti virus software prevented me from sending information to her. But Luseet was more interested in the aliens themselves she didn't care for weapons or armor, hell I could have sent her information on the gen mods and the mech program that we have here. But lusset wanted nothing to do with X-COM, she never wanted what that bastard Viktor is doing right now, she would have never gone to war with you.And if you're thinking it no i’m not with EXALT any more and I probably won't be after this war either. Now as for my loyalty you saved my kids and there is nothing I can do to repay you, I am eternally grateful for you doing that. So yes I am loyal to you and to this program and once I have Viktors head I will still be loyal to you. Are you satisfied with my answer?”

“For the most part. I just have one more question.” Morrigan motioned for Eva to sit on Brigid’s bed across from her.

Eva get’s a confused look on her face, but goes to where the commander is pointing and sit’s down. “OK so what’s your question?”

“How loyal to Lusett were you? Would you have given your life for her? And would you have… taken my life when we first met if she had ordered you to?”

“Yes,commander I don’t think you understand how loyal I am...was to her. Lusset brought me back for death. I died and she brought me back from death's home, She saved my life so interne ou her my life, now as for her killing you. She would have never order me to kill you, but if she did I will hesitate and think about it, now that is from you saving my kids. if that never happened then yes I would have killed you with no problem.”

Morrigan placed her chin in her hand. “I don’t suppose I have that kind of loyalty now, do I?”

“Yes you do, like I said you saved my kids so I am loyal to you. how ever, if you ever ordered me to kill children or several civilians. I would kill you just for ordering me to do that, but you're not that kind of person,so yes you have my loyalty the same way Lusett did.”

Morrigan laughed, laying back on her bed and staring up at the ceiling. “You’re a very blunt and honest woman, aren’t you?”

“Yes I am i’m a terrible liar, well, i’m terrible at telling a straight up lie but I have no problem bending the truth with a little bit of a lie. But I have to much to lose if I lie to you now.”

Morrigan sat back up. “I want you to train a bit with Central Officer Brea. If you do that, and you listen to what she says… and I’d watch the back talk, because she isn’t as patient with that as me… then the next mission you’re on will be one with a split squad. You’ll be in charge of one of the units, and you’ll get your chance to prove your worth.”

Eva get’s a big smile on her face “THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, I promise I will do my best on that mission and I will prove that I can lead. Thank you so much for the chance commander.”

“Just don’t make me regret it.” Morrigan stood up, and opened the door for Eva. “I do have to ask you, though. What made you suddenly decide you wanted this?”

“Well the Van dam told me to, I told ash what I’ve been through and she told me to look past my fears, and do what I have been denying myself. And she was, I was scared to become a leader even after being in the swiss army and the U.S. marines I told ash I was training to become a ranger as well. That seemed to piss her off the fact that I wanted to become a ranger and I didn't want to become a leader, she said I was holding myself back and she was right.”

As they headed back to the Labs, Morrigan folded her arms. “Really? Considering Van Dam’s manner of thinking and reputation around base… she does realize that, if you become a squad leader, she could end up working under you?”

“Yea she said because of her reputation, no one will follow her orders or would want to. And in a way she’s right but, I have no idea what ashley is thinking but she was right about me though.”

Morrigan grinned. “Maybe she’s hoping she could lead through you. Of course, she only has a reputation because of her attitude. She seems like a nice woman. Watches over her clan, loving wife. Adores that kid of hers. She’s just… a bit rude, is all.”

“Yea she is, but I should thank her for giving me the courage to do this. Though I don’t know how Jean will take this news.” Eva eyes widen knowing that she just mentioned her boyfriends name near the commander.

“Jean?” Morrigan tapped her chin. “Jean… Jean… the only one I’m familiar with is Francois, the guy who works with his sister in the psi lab. You two an item?”

“Ye…..yea and I just found out recently that he loves me. And that scares me even more, the fact that someone loves me gives me even more motivation to become better, and to defend him and the people around me. Sorry if that sounds cheesy.”

“Not at all. That kind of motivation helps more then you might think. That’s why Ms. Lockheart…” Morrigan trailed off as they walked into the autopsy room, Jessica sitting outside on the floor with several techs around her, the young woman appearing as though she’s crying.

“Jessica?” Eva rushes to Jessicas side and kneels next to her.”Jessica what happen to you?”

“I… I didn’t… feel that bad, but… but there was so much mucous, a-and I… I didn’t know I should… mix cake with pickles, and I… I’m all… gooey…” Jessica managed to say between sobs.

One of the other techs leaned over to Morrigan. “She kinda lost her lunch in her hazard suit.”

Eva takes off Jessicas hazmat helmet.”Jessica why were you eating cake and a pickles together?” Eva looks at Jessica stomach and looks at the rest of her body. “Jess are you pregnant?”

Jessica nodded. “Y-yes… I… I just have these weird cravings. I’m sorry…”

Morrigan shook her head. “It’s okay, Ms. Lockheart.”

“Wait wait wait wait back up, your pregnant? and you never told me, Come one Jess.”Eva put’s Jessica arm around the back of her neck and slowly lifts her up.”Do you need to go to the med bay?”

Jessica shook her head. “No, but I… I’m all… icky…”

Morrigan suppressed a smile. “Eva, can you take Ms. Lockheart to the showers?”

“Yea do you need me to strip her too, because i’m more than happy to.” Eva says with a smile.

“I’d recommend waiting until you get to the showers,” Morrigan answered. “Both for cleanliness sake, and for the sake of her dignity.”

“Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way.” Eva puts one of her arms under Jessicas leg and caress her to the showers.”Jess do me a favor, please don’t vomit on me. Because I will possibly drop you.Well I won’t but please don’t puke.”

“I won’t… I promise,” Jessica answered, closing her eyes to avoid seeing anyone watching them walk by.

 

[Adrammalech]

This is a collaboration between Adrammalech and MarineAvenger.
// PATIENCE //
Emily Fischer / Desmond Walker
XCOM Headquarters – Desmond's Lab
Siberia, Russian Federation
5:19 PM

Emily walked towards Desmond’s psionic lab, the pacing of her abilities fresh in her mind. She remembered Luxuria’s offers, but knew they would have a price that was likely too high. Learning from Desmond was her only chance to have normal abilities...normal for psionics, anyway. She knocked on the massive metal door to the lab, waiting and hoping for a response.

A few moments later, the doors slid open and Desmond stood with his arms crossed. “Ah, Emily. Come in, I expect you would like to get straight to work. Any questions before we begin?”

“Yeah, I was wondering how long it would take to learn each new ability,” she said, “I remember you saying it took months just to learn the dreamscape, is that the same for everything?”

“It all is up to the particular person. Some develop faster and some slower. The dreamscape took me months because it was a new power that I had no need to develop. The ‘Pulsar Core’ took me years simply on the sole fact it was something new and we had no previous knowledge of psionics.” Desmond informed the other psion.

“So if I want or need it more, I can learn it faster?”

“A little self determination goes a long way but you also need the skill and the practice. Man didn’t go to the moon just because they wanted it, they needed the knowledge and the means to do it. That means, and that knowledge is what I will pass on to you.”

“I see...alright then, do you have anything new for me today?” Emily smiled.

“I have a few things I am learning myself but those are for a different time. For now, we need to build up your psionic tolerance and energy pool.” Desmond waved his hand to the middle of the floor where two mats were on the floor. “Come and kneel.”

“Alright,” she said, hopping onto the mat. “Energy pool, huh? Sounds fun…”

Desmond smiled. “Think of it like this,” Desmond said, sitting across from her. “Your psionic energy is in a big, collective pool. You use a bucket to use your powers by taking energy from the pool. You can have a large bucket but a small pool, using a powerful ability but using a lot of energy, or a large pool with a small bucket to use relatively weak powers over and over. You need to practice to expand both.”

“I see, and how do I do that?” she asked, shifting her knees on the mat uncomfortably.

“Well, it is like lifting a weight. Concentrate and release your power exponentially, and eventually you will get stronger and stronger. You can do it anytime, you just need to concentrate.”

Emily focused and made a gentle breeze rotating around her, holding it for a few moments and then stopping. “Like that?”

Desmond smiled. “Yeah, keep that going and you will get quite a control over your psionics.” Desmond shifted so he was on his knees and he bowed his head, his body radiating a soft red glow.

Emily continued to focus, adding small violet particles into the wind so that it was a little more clear. She sped up a bit before stopping again. “This is kinda fun,” she chuckled, “like stretching a rubber band out, right?”

Desmond didn’t look up but there was a slight grin on his face. “If that is the way it feels to you then that works. To me it is more like loosening up your muscles before a workout. There have been times I have fallen asleep cause it was so soothing.”

“Yeah, I’ve never actually just done this on my own, only made an example for a couple people,” Emily began channeling her rift faster, the particles beginning to blur inside the windy field. She grinned and continued pushing it further.

“This comes easiest to me,” Desmond’s voice seemed really calm and soothing, like a father’s. “Meditating is not far off from what I am doing now. I could probably try and pick out each psion on base should I want to. That is one of those things that come easier to all psions. You can usually detect others at varying distances depending on a lot of factors. I have no doubt you have felt it before.”

“I felt Brigid when she had her...episode, a while ago. Other than that, not so much, actually.”

Desmond looked up with a raised eyebrow. “Really? Well...close your eyes for me. I will show you.”

Emily stopped her rift and closed her eyes. “Alright, done. What now?”

“Open your mind. Try and reach out to the other power in the room, mine. You may not see anything but darkness but you will feel it. Just be calm, and open minded.” Desmond reminded the woman.

Emily did feel Desmond’s power on an instinctive level, like the tingling she would get when she thought someone was behind her. It was warm and intense, like being right next to the flame of a candle. Still, she couldn’t see him or anything else, just a lingering feeling. “I sense it, vaguely,” she stated.

“Good, then you are learning.” Desmond got off his knees and sat crossed legged on the mat. “So, tell me how you feel right now.” Desmond smirked a bit. “I want to get a read on your thoughts right now.”

“Well, its interesting,” Emily smiled. “I know Nika can sense things like that better than me, for now least. I’m not really a meditation kind of person, but its good to know how to do it,” she shrugged.

“Nika is more oriented for this sort of stuff if memory serves me right. I tend to keep up with the names of people who have psionics. Call me paranoid ot a bit weird but I like to know who it is we are trusting with these powers, and how to defeat them should they get out of control.” Desmond closed his eyes and sighed. “Brigid won’t be the only one to lose control. I don’t know about Atka or our Central Officer but we need a safeguard for this stuff.”

“I guess there’s nothing wrong with being prepared, although it is a little weird knowing you’re plotting how to take me down,” she chuckled nervously. “Nika is blue, so I think you’re right.”

“You make it sound like I am doing it so I can get rid of you all. Do people really distrust me that much?” Desmond sighed and closed his eyes, standing up. “If people feel I am a traitor they make me out to be then I would like them to at least say it to my face.”

“N-no, maybe that came out wrong,” she said quickly. “I just meant, you know, knowing how to defeat people if they get out of control. And I’m probably most susceptible to that since...you know how I got these things.”

Desmond shook his head. “No, I don’t think you are the worst. In fact I don’t you that susceptible at all. Your means I don’t agree with but you have kept control so far.” Desmond gripped his metal arm.

“Well, I’m glad you have faith in me so far,” Emily smiled. “I was thinking about something when it comes to learning new things, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Go ahead.” Desmond told her.

“My memory is better than the average. Basically, I can remember things to pretty good detail, even years back. Do you think that would help me make the dreamscape? Because I’d like to make it soon,” she grinned.

Desmond didn’t share the grin. “I don’t see why it would. It may help build a scene better when you get there but I don’t see it helping your power along any faster. You can’t be too eager.”

Emily sighed, looking down. “There’s got to be something to speed things along. I mean, don’t get me wrong, this is interesting to learn, but I want new abilities and powers. Especially after what everyone had to fight on the last mission.”

“This isn’t something you can just cut corners and take short cuts on Emily. These powers need to be developed over time. Look how powerful the Ethereals are, and look how long they have been alive. Do you think they got that kind of power but doing it all in an hour?”

“Well…” Emily scratched her chin, deciding not to share her thoughts on that. “Maybe not. I have to be patient, right?”

“Yes you do.” Desmond rubbed his chin. “Emily, I do not want to be an ass but this is the way things are.”

“It’s alright, I’m not the most patient person in the world,” she admitted. “I’m sorry if I was being annoying.”

“Trust me you are not that annoying.” He sat down on a stool. “You just need a bit more time before we can do anything major that you want.”

“I get it, I just have to adjust. Used to getting my way a lot, I guess,” she chuckled and scratched her head. “Do you have anything else you’d like to teach me?”

“Just...try and practice with what I showed you today, we can continue another time.” Desmond told her dismissively.

“Alright,” she gave a half-bow before edging away. “Thanks for your time, Desmond.”

“Anytime Emily.” He responded with a half wave.

 

[Adrammalech]

// DREAMSCAPE //
Emily Fischer
XCOM Headquarters – Alien Containment Unit
Siberia, Russian Federation
8:44 PM

After spending an hour in Dallas’ notes and reports, Emily stormed angrily through the administrative halls of the base. Her people were getting ripped apart, skewered, and eaten alive. There were still traitors out there, and the Ethereals were getting even more brutish. All the while, she was being told to hold herself back, to be worried about antiquated ethics and misplaced concerns while others suffered.

Emily barged into the containment room, staring angrily at Luxuria tinkering with Emily’s avatar, trying to see how her illusion would look with an Ethereal mask. She looked up surprised and the avatar dissipated, re-emerging on the outside of the cell.

Emily? I didn’t expect you…

“Gula’s dead. He had a three headed monster that ate people. Innocent children, and my people.”

I… Luxuria paused, selecting her words carefully. I warned that he would experiment on the weak. I had no use for experiments on anything without a sex drive, and even then…

“Yeah, you’re a goddamn saint. The people from your base are still calling themselves ‘it.’ They can’t think without expecting a nerve shock.”

I am sorry, Emily. I have explained my experiments, and I told you what this man was. He was depraved even by our standards, if it weren’t for the status of his mother, he never would’ve been where he was. At least you didn’t have to see it…

“I don’t need to see it to imagine it,” Emily growled. “People screaming as they got bit in half…”

I would never do that, it would be senseless. Please don’t judge me based on him.

“You’re right, he was sick, even for you bastards. He died bargaining.”

Predictable.

Emily sighed and softened, trying to stop her disgust from Gula’s mission report from bleeding into her conversation with Luxuria. A part of her wanted to believe that Luxuria was better than that, for her own sake, but she reminded herself constantly of the captives being nursed to sanity in the base.

You’re distressed. Luxuria’s illusion looked at her with motherly concern. I will let you ask the first question today, if it will help.

Emily rubbed her forehead, letting out a deep sigh. “I need to know what you gave your captives, the violet liquid in the injectors.”

This again? I thought we were done obsessing over them. Luxuria looked genuinely curious, alongside her normal irritation. I studied your culture with Av…with the others, many humans would believe it to be merciful to simply euthanize them. Their purpose became tests, without tests, they are literally nothing. Why do you cling to the idea that they can be saved?

“Are you using one of your questions?” Emily replied with a condescending smirk.

Luxuria paused for a moment, considering. I am. Your defiance confuses me, and I want to know what ideals drive this obsession.

“Easy. Once something can reason, no one should decide it dies except them.”

Emily’s illusion stepped backwards, surprised by the blunt answer. An interesting ideology. I’m not sure if it’s honorable or naïve, especially coming from a soldier, one who takes lives without permission on a daily basis.

“They choose to oppose me. If I took civilian lives on a daily basis, then maybe that would be applicable.”

Interesting. Curious. Selective… Luxuria paused, then smiled, ready to boast about her chemistry. The drug is a formula of my own design. It has the narcotic and addictive effect of your ‘heroin,’ along with several additives for hormone adjustment, emotional pliancy, memory loss, and limiting negative physical side effects. It is only truly effective when injected.

“Could you make a weak version of it, to calm them?”

Luxuria laughed with her avatar. I suppose it could be an amusing challenge, letting you fuel their addictions, if that's what you want. I do find myself in need of little puzzles to pass the days…

“Thank you, I guess,” Emily said.

The Emily-like mirage waved her hand dismissively. They’ll never be the same, you know. Even if you somehow restore their senses, they’ll be scarred until they expire.

“Trust me, I know,” she said with irritation, pointing her words like the tip of a knife. “And I’ll remember.”

You always do. Any other riveting pet projects? Perhaps there is a lost dog or some spilled milk you wish me to assist you with.

“Maybe this will be more your speed,” she sighed, straightening her back and chasing away the guilt. “You said you could teach me how to create the dreamscape. How long will it take?”

The avatar smiled. A matter of minutes, with your help of course.

“The dampeners again?”

Yes, we must establish a stronger connection again. I’ll be giving you what I learned directly.

“What could be the danger in that?” she mocked.

I am not Gula, Emily. I gave you my word on this matter.

Emily’s fingers wrapped around the dial for the dampeners and turned it down a couple notches, sending a request up to the observation room.

“No bullshit this time, or it’ll be the last time this happens.”

I want to help. Close your eyes, please.

After a moment of authorization, the thrumming of the emitters began to slow. She closed her eyes and felt the restrictions of reality falling away from her, Luxuria remaining uncharacteristically focused on Emily’s request. She felt her presence inside of her, but the alien remained quiet and loyal. As Emily opened her eyes, everything from breathing to gravity felt different.

 

[Adrammalech]

“Here we are…” a voice declared.

Emily and Luxuria’s human avatar re-emerged in a new place, a dark but safe place under a deep green sky. Luxuria stepped forward and breathed a sigh of relief, holding her Ethereal mask under her arm. Under their feet was a platform made solely for them, a massive pedestal of glass and obsidian, allowing them to survey hundreds of miles over the horizon. Occupying a large portion of the sky, a giant silver moon reflected the far off light of the sun, its surface writhing as if it was made by a trillion mirrors. A green moon hid behind it, deeper and darker than the atmosphere.

Beneath them lied a sea of skyscrapers and arcologies, dim purple lights blinking and pulsating in every direction. She could see a network of roads and serene violet-flavored parks, the scattering dots of headlights and searchlights dashing across the cityscape. Emily smiled as she looked at it, but didn’t know why.

“What is this place?”

Emily felt in harmony with Luxuria, sensing her emotions as if they were to be her own. It was a different sensation than in the Gobi. They weren’t placed there with hostility, she simply understood and shared them.

“Home,” the Ethereal smiled.

A ray of emerald cracked across the sky, angling upwards and piercing through the darkness. A golden one soon followed, then an amber, then a crimson. Soon the sky was flooded with the low scarlet glow of the sun, its intensity almost small enough to look at.

“This is the Ethereal homeworld?” Emily asked. “Your Earth?”

“Yes…the ultimate seat of peace and knowledge in the galaxy. There has not been a war in my home in centuries.”

“What about my home?” she asked, worry creeping into her mind. “Why isn’t it from my memory?”

“Is this not satisfactory?”

“Well, it’s my dreamscape. I should know what or where it is, shouldn’t I?”

“Why would you want your dreams to be in an imperfect world when you could be in a perfect one?”

“I want my home,” she said with disappointment. “I want to see a place that I could go or imagine.”

“This is better than what you could imagine,” Luxuria explained, pointing at the skyscrapers below. “In our home, we solve galactic energy problems, build ships a fraction of the size of entire planets, engineer ecosystems from scratch. Each problem a grand puzzle, each solution a salvation for someone or something.” Luxuria turned to her, frowning but hopeful. “Don’t you see? A woman of your intelligence and willpower, you would be treated as a queen here, just like me.”

“Maybe Earth isn’t perfect, but it’s still my home. I want to see it when I close my eyes.”

“I do not understand. This should be heaven for you. Your world was wracked in poverty, doubt, and war far before we arri-”

“We didn’t have a major war for plenty of time, just skirmishes with a few groups of people.”

“These ‘skirmishes’ nearly killed you!” Luxuria pointed impatiently towards Emily’s shoulder, where her old bullet wound remained as a scar. “This is why we cannot see you as equals, to waste such potential on something as trivial as a border dispute and a mad king! And worse yet, to want it!”

“And what about the Path? Didn’t Moloch have potential, or Gula? Are your wars different than ours?”

“They are!” Luxuria raised her voice, indignant. “We are searching for something greater than ourselves, something that could better all life in the universe!”

“Your search is just a religion, a belief in something you haven’t seen. What if you never find Ascension? What then? How is your religion better than ours?”

“How dare you speak of the Path with such insolence?” she rushed forwards, puffing her chest and trying to intimidate Emily further. “Despite disagreement on its form, the Path is our race’s purpose! You do not know what you dismiss!”

“If it’s the hope of your race, why do you need us? Why does your own religion doubt your people’s ability to complete it?”

“It was our own mistake! For dozens of cycles – when you were still fighting with flames and swords – we believed it was a mental pursuit, and we dedicated enormous time in our labs ignoring the pains and atrophies of our bodies. It was only so recently in cloning and cryogenics that we learned the dichotomy was not required. That matter and mind do not rule over another, but work in tandem, taking the lead at points dictated by nature.”

Emily thought for a moment, a sad and sober expression on her face. She looked into Luxuria’s eyes with a mix of disappointment and anger. Luxuria continued, her voice becoming weaker.

“The blue’s control over physical enhancement was the first notion of this, our ignorance of the physical world made it elude our grasp exponentially longer than yours. Even I still cannot grasp it, my body is…too frail. It was only discovered by a rogue scientist, a man we dismissed for many cycles.”

“And you made this mistake for centuries,” Emily shook her head, “yet you see yourselves perfect enough to kill and torment millions for your belief.”

The dreamscape fell apart and reality drifted back to Emily’s consciousness, blinking to recognize the dark and sterile containment room. Luxuria’s illusion immediately fell apart, bringing her attention to her actual body in the cell. To her surprise, a highly accented and purely feminine voice emerged shakily from beneath the Ethereal’s helmet.

“I must think. Please, leave me,” she said, turning away.

Emily turned around and left, the secrets of the dreamscape present but tainted in her mind. She left Luxuria to lament on right and wrong while she personally considered the idea of a peaceful world, remembering the sacrifice she almost made at the Korean border. If a race that called itself perfect really desired her so intensely, Luxuria was right to say it would’ve been wasteful to die there. She scratched her head and went towards the bar, hoping to chase the thought away with company and games before it overwhelmed her.